Volume 20 • No. 2 • January 16 - 31, 2024
Publication Mailing Account #41721512
18 Filipino seafarers in Iranian custody
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Photo Credit: Nadine’s IG
Nadine Lustre
The Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the Iranian Embassy in Manila has promised to extend assistance to the Philippines in its request for the release of 18 Filipinos on board an oil tanker that Iran seized in the Gulf of Oman this week, Saturday, January 13, 2024. Iran seized the Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker St Nikolas in the Gulf of Oman while the ship was in transit between the Iraqi port of Basra and Turkey. “We’re in touch with the Iranian government. The Iranian ambassador has promised assistance, so there’s the confirmation that it (the ship) was captured. So, we’re just ascertaining the condition of our 18 seafarers,” DFA Undersecretary for Migrant Workers Affairs Eduardo Jose de Vega said in an interview with ABS-CBN. De Vega said the DFA is still waiting for See SEAFARERS p5
Winnipeg Jets’ Filipino Heritage Night
The ceremonial puck drop featured Winnipeggers Hanna Pagdato, Jordy Wyant and Larissa Pagdato. Gil Buenaventura, Executive Director of Magdaragat Philippines, joined the young Filipino Canadian athletes on the ice. Story on page 4. Photo by Graeme Wyant
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Our journey continues The year 2024 is meaningful to us here at Pilipino Express. This means that we are now into our 19th year of service to the Filipino Canadian community in Manitoba. When we began publishing in 2005, we hoped that we would
be able to ride the challenges along the way. Throughout the years, there were ups and downs. The “ups” were very good. We successfully conducted a series of Pinoy Pop Star singing contests that became a springboard for many budding local vocalists in
the community. We have been able to inform our readers on various topics such as immigration, mental health, history, culture, human resources, politics, health, sports, entertainment, current events and other interesting subjects. We continue to enjoy the support of our contributors who write with integrity and sound knowledge of their chosen fields of expertise. We certainly cannot complain.
The “downs” were the normal kinks in doing business for any small publication like us. They were manageable. However, like many, we were affected by the global crisis brought by the pandemic. COVID-19 tried to bring us to our knees in 2020. Fortunately, the kindness of our advertisers who did not abandon us and support from our readers kept us going. Four years after the pandemic hit all of us, we are still
here, proud to say that we plan to continue Pilipino Express as long as you are here with us enjoying the ride. Our journey continues. Another year (2025) and it will be our 20th. Thank you very much! Maraming salamat po! Emmie Joaquin Editor-in-Chief Pilipino Express
Winnipeg Jets’ Filipino Heritage Night The Winnipeg Jets hosted the second annual Filipino Heritage Night during their game against the Philadelphia Flyers on Saturday, January 13, 2024. Despite the extreme cold weather warning, the enthusiasm inside the Canada Life Centre was electrifying. The game celebrated Winnipeg’s vibrant Filipino community by showcasing Filipino culture, cuisine and community collaborations. The ceremonial puck drop featured Winnipeggers Hanna Pagdato, Larissa Pagdato, and Jordy Wyant who recently represented the Philippines, winning Bronze at the Union Women’s ice hockey tournament in the United Arab Emirates. Currently, Hanna Pagdato plays starting goalie in New Brunswick, Larissa Pagdato is a coach for True North youth foundation, and Jordy Wyant plays university hockey in Minnesota. Gil Buenaventura, Executive Director of Magdaragat Philippines, joined the young Filipino Canadian athletes on the ice.
The evening’s entertainment featured music influenced by Filipino culture. Members of the Rainbow Stage musical Ma-Buhay! sang the national anthems. Magdaragat Philippines performed during the intermission. Game presentation featured digital media elements created by students of Sisler High School’s CREATE program, an entertainment arts training program. Jets gameday hosts were joined by 92.7 CKJS radio personalities Donna NatividadArenas and Tyler Magnaye, who spoke Tagalog during the in-game presentation. Filipino food favourites were featured at concessions throughout Canada Life Centre. Regrettably, the game ended Winnipeg Jets’ eight-game win streak and their 14 game points streak as they were defeated by the Flyers 2-0. Source: nhl.com/Photos by Larry Pagdato and Graeme Wyant
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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, or e-mail: E-mail: info@pilipino-express.com.
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Accelerated processing and PRC applications A November 2023 article in the Toronto Star called attention to the plight of many newly landed Canadians who are awaiting the issuance of their Permanent Resident cards. It could take a considerable amount of time for the issuance of the PRC and this has created issues for many. In particular, there are many new immigrants who are desperate to return to their home countries but face challenges if they try and return to Canada with proof of their landed status. It is important that all PRs are aware of the need for the PRC card, the processing time frames, and the options open to them. The PRC is first and foremost a form of identification for new immigrants, a vital travel document that permanent residents must produce at a port of entry to re-enter the country. The absence of a PRC hinders the newly landed Canadians’ ability to return to their home country for family emergencies. The Toronto Star article estimated that over 70,000 new immigrants were awaiting their cards at the time of
their article. There are, however, options available to permanent residents who are awaiting the issuance of their first cards or those who have expiring or even expired cards. It is possible to request accelerated processing in certain cases. There are a number of cases where the applicant can request an urgent issuance of the card, such as in the event of a serious illness or death of a family member as well as work related to your current job. It is important for applicants to understand that IRCC does not guarantee that a PR card will arrive on time. Applicants are advised to check on current processing times, so they are aware of the challenges they face. IRCC’s current processing time for first-time PR card applicants is 32 days and the estimated processing time for PR card renewal applications is 63 days. The government of Canada website will provide you with an updated message of the processing of your request based on the date of the submission for a new PR card or the renewal or
on this is encouraging. They are SEAFARERS... in a good condition),” DMW From page 1 an official report from its embassy in Iran and cannot yet confirm the condition of the Filipino seafarers. “We can say that, so far, there is no indication that they are being harmed or mistreated. Wala (none),” he said. “The Iranian ambassador assured that they will work on it so that they will be released as soon as possible.” The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), is in touch with the families of the 18 seafarers to extend necessary assistance. “Ang DMW ay nakafocus sa pakikipag-ugnayan sa pamilya ng ating mga kababayan. Sa ngayon naman maganda naman ang update dito. Nasa maganda silang kalagayan (The DMW is focused on coordinating with their families. So far, the update
Undersecretary Patricia Yvonne Caunan said. “Patuloy ang DMW na makipag-ugnayan sa DFA para i-monitor ang kanilang situwasyon (The DMW will continue to coordinate with the DFA to monitor the seafarers’ situation).” The oil tanker, previously named Suez Rajan, had been the subject of attention in 2023 when the more than 980,000 barrels of Iranian crude oil it was carrying were confiscated by the United States in a sanction enforcement operation. Another 17 Filipino crew members of Galaxy Leader cargo ship are still being held by the Houthi rebels following the vessel’s seizure in the Red Sea last November. PNA/ PND
replacement of a lost PRC. For those who are not eligible for accelerated processing, there are other options you can consider. PRs with expired or expiring PRCs may consider other options such as traveling abroad on family emergencies and applying for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) abroad. The PRTD is a one-time travel document for which permanent residents can apply if they are outside Canada with an expired PRC. This option is for emergencies and the permanent resident must apply at the visa post abroad and explain why their card is expired and the reason why they travelled abroad without renewing it from inside Canada. There is no guarantee that the visa
post will approve the application, so you should exercise caution if you are considering this option. It would be best to apply for a new card from inside the country and request accelerated processing. In terms of newly landed Canadians, you can apply for urgent issuance of your first PR cards and include the following documentation to support your request: proof of intended travel with a copy of your ticket or flight itinerary; a copy of your receipt of payment; a letter explaining your request for accelerated travel; a copy of a doctor’s note on serious illness, or death certificate or a letter from your employer on letterhead with company signature. It is important to note that requests for fast processing
will not be considered without supporting documentation. If the documentation is not provided, the IRCC will provide normal processing times. Good luck with your PRC applications and a caution to any who travel abroad without a valid PRC. This is not a good idea. Michael Scott is a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC, R525678) who has 30 years of experience with Immigration Canada and the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program. He currently works as a licensed consultant with Immigration Connexion International Ltd. Contact him at 204-691-1166 or 204-2270292. E-mail: mscott.ici@gmail. com.
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CEM’s holiday celebration and volunteer appreciation On December 2, 2023, Caring for our Environment – Manitoba (CEM) held a Holiday Celebration and Volunteer Appreciation at the Sir William Stephenson Library, Winnipeg. The event theme was – Strengthening Community Partnerships to Advance a Sustainable and Climate Resilient Future. Thirty-nine people attended. In his virtual welcome remarks, CEM Chairperson, Dr. Ramon Sales, highlighted the importance of strong collaboration and partnerships with other local organizations to advance the shared goal of increased public environmental awareness, while also harnessing the opportunities in the coming year. He noted the event coincided with the gathering of world’s leaders of almost 200 countries in Dubai to decide on the fate of our warming planet to make it more liveable, safer and healthier in the decades to come. CEM was honoured to have as its guest speaker Dr. Dennis Gupa, Assistant Professor at the Department of Theatre and Film, University of Winnipeg. Dr. Gupa shared his creative work using traditional ways of knowing, storytelling and applied theatre as a tool for promoting conversations and dialogue to advance social justice, community participation and climate action. Dr. Mariciel Nuyda, CEM Vice-Chairperson and Head, Education Committee, awarded a certificate and token of appreciation to the guest speaker. At this event, CEM also awarded certificates of appreciation to 18 volunteers who shared their time and talents during its events and activities launched in 2023.
This fun-filled event also showcased the talents of CEM members, their families and the three 2024 Miss Galaxy Canada winners through their inspiring musical performances and messages. The three pageant winners, who also shared their ideas about ways to help protect our environment, were Katrina Czarina Salazar, 2024 Miss Teen Galaxy Canada, Lesceia Fajardo, 2024 Little Miss Galaxy Canada, and Janiyah Estrella, 2024 Miss Pre-Teen Canada Galaxy Third Runner-Up. The event was capped by the awarding of the lucky winners of door prizes and the 50/50 raffle draw. CEM would like to thank its event donors for their generous support: Norman Garcia with MR. PEG, Maileen Pamplona with PANASIA Holidays, Rizalina Cortez, Mariciel Sanchez, Jun and May Sales and the Multi-Material Stewardship Manitoba (MMSM). As well, CEM would like to express its sincere appreciation to its partner organizations for their unwavering support for its activities and events – Green Action Centre, MMSM, Recycle Everywhere and Green for Life (GFL) – Environmental Inc. For more information about CEM and how to volunteer or become a member, visit www.ceminc.org or email us at caring4environment@ gmail.com. Also check us out on Instagram (@ caringforenvironmentmb) and Facebook (Caring for our Environment – Manitoba and Caring for our Environment for Sustainable Prosperity). – Ramon Sales, PhD, CEM Chairperson
Dr. Mariciel Nuyda awards certificate and token of appreciation to Dr. Dennis Gupa
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SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ
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Jennylyn and Xian star in Love. Die. Repeat. GMA Network brings a unique story about two lovers separated by death and how a time loop can possibly put them back together in Love. Die. Repeat. The much-anticipated series also marks the TV comeback of Jennylyn Mercado with indemand leading man Xian Lim. This January, get ready to meet and be hooked with the characters of Jennylyn as Angela and Xian as Bernard. Together, they find love, live life, and face the inevitable death of a loved one. Love. Die. Repeat. tells the story of Angela, who lost her husband, Bernard, in a car accident. Soon, she realizes she is stuck in a time loop and is forced to relive the worst day of her life – the day her husband died. Will she be able to save her husband the next time around, or is she doomed to experience more pain every single day? How will Angela get out of the complicated time loop? Playing equally important roles in the series are Mike Tan,Valeen Montenegro, Ina See LOVE p11
Xian Lim & Jennylyn Mercado
Sarah Lahbati pokes fun at ‘gastadora’ rumours Like Kapuso celebrities Marian Rivera and Dennis Trillo, Sarah Lahbati is unleashing her candid side on social media. On TikTok, the actress shared a video where she dubbed the audio that said, “No, I don’t think you understand. I’m obsessed,” while putting on a pair of specs. In the video’s caption, Sarah wrote, “Who wants to go shopping with me?” In the comment section, netizens speculated that Sarah’s new video was in response to her mother-in-law, Annabelle Rama, who accused her of splurging on shopping in an interview. “2024 Year of the Waldas Dragon,” a netizen wrote as a joke. Just recently, Sarah showed off her new house with a massive living space and a pool. Sarah and Richard Gutierrez got married in 2020 and have two sons, Zion and Kai. They have been the subject of separation See SARAH p11
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GMA unveils new drama Asawa Ng Asawa Ko They say to “fight for your marriage like everything is at stake because it is.” But will it still be worth it if he has already found someone else? This January, GMA Network brings a story about the things people fight for, especially love, family, and freedom. Asawa Ng Asawa Ko centers on a war between two wives who will do everything to protect what is theirs. Teaming up for the first time are high-caliber actress Jasmine Curtis-Smith as Cristy and Kapuso heartthrob Rayver Cruz as Jordan. Spicing up the soap opera are Sparkle’s Martin del Rosario and Liezel Lopez, together with talented actor Joem Bascon as Leon. Witness the love story of Cristy and Jordan, who stick together against the world. They live a simple and happy life with their only daughter. However, their family starts to fall apart when Cristy gets abducted by the rebel group Kalasag. Playing the role of villains in the series as members of Kalasag are Kim De Leon, Bruce Roeland, Luis Hontiveros, Patricia Coma, Jennifer Maravilla, Billie Hakenson and Mariz Ricketts. Completing the star-studded cast are Crystal Paras as Nonette, Quinn Carillo, and Gina Alajar. Catch Asawa Ng Asawa Ko directed by Laurice Guillen. Global Pinoys can also catch the program via GMA Pinoy TV.
Jasmine Curtis-Smith
Rayver Cruz
Fake news ang link ni Daniel Padilla kay Aeriel
Sarah Lahbati
Hindi pa rin tumitigil sa social media ang mga chismis kaugnay sa mga naging babae umano ni Daniel Padilla habang sila pa ng dating partner na si Kathryn Bernardo. Ang nali-link naman ngayon sa Kapamilya actor ay si Aeriel Garcia, ang asawa ng dating Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) teen housemate na si Patrick Sugui. Pero agad naman ‘yang pinabulaanan ni Patrick sa kaniyang X (dating Twitter) account recently. Tiniyak ng dating PBB housemate na walang kinalaman ang kaniyang misis sa kumakalat na “cheating rumors” na nag-ugat See DANIEL p9
Daniel Padilla
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SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS
Nadine believes T-Bird at Ako will be a challenge After receiving the approval of Vilma Santos-Recto to fans’ request to have Nadine Lustre and Kathryn Bernardo star in a possible remake of the film T-Bird at Ako, Lustre said it is a challenge that she is willing to work on. ABS-CBN News caught up with the award-winning actress as she shared the good vibes of 2024. When asked for her reaction to Santos’ approval, Lustre said she’s happy but doubts if she is ready for it. “I’m so happy she approves and appreciates my work but I think it’s a matter of comfort level, ‘cause I don’t think I’m ready for something like that. That’s very daring, di ba?” she said. “It’s very intimate,” she added. “I’m not sure if I’m ready for something like that but it’s a challenge, and you know naman I’m up for challenges. It’s something that we can work on, tignan natin,” Lustre said. The 1982 film was top-billed by Vilma and Nora Aunor, making it one of the iconic movies of the two legendary actresses. Lustre said she has worked with Santos in an episode of Maalaala Mo Kaya. “Actually, looking forward to working with her or just to see her again. Why not, I’m game! Super game ako. You know me, I’m always excited to work with new people,” Lustre said. Lustre also shared she is excited for the new year. “I really have a good feeling about 2024,” Lustre said. “Hindi ko nga alam eh. I feel like it’s too early for me to say what’s going to happen this year, but ang goal ko talaga this year is to have creative projects - like See NADINE p11
DANIEL... From page 8 sa isang Reddit thread. “We don’t know where all of this is coming from,” caption ni Patrick. Sey pa niya, “But I can assure you guys, my wife has nothing to do with this.” Kasunod ng mga binitiwang salita ni Patrick ay nakiusap siya sa publiko na tigilan na ang pagkalat ng fake news.
Kathryn Bernardo
Nadine Lustre
“Stop making false accusations, please. We are trying to live a quiet life, so please stop,” lahad ng aktor. Aniya pa, “I’m only talking because nadawit na naman name ng wife ko. There’s no truth to this. That’s all. Salamat.” Ang nabanggit na Reddit thread ay posted two months ago, pero ngayon lang ito lalong umingay at kumalat sa socmed. Marami ang naniniwala na ang See DANIEL p11
Patrick Sugui & Aeriel Garcia
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Pops Fernandez on dating younger men and ex-boyfriends Pops Fernandez was incredibly candid on Friday’s episode (Jan. 12, 2024) of Fast Talk with Boy Abunda answering questions about being single, her love life, the many men she was linked to in the past. In the Fast Talk portion of the interview, Boy Abunda, the King of Talk asked the Concert Queen if she was willing to have a younger boyfriend and Pops couldn’t help but say, “nagawa ko na yata yon!” Laughing she added, “so many times!” After she separated from husband Martin Nievera, Pops dated younger men including model Brad Turvey. During Fast Talk, the currently single Pops made her qualifications known: “Iba naman. Yung may edad naman sana.” And when asked why she never answered her politician suitors, Pops said “gusto ko single.” Pops Fernandez also dished out some bombs about her love life on Fast Talk, revealing Randy Santiago became her boyfriend “over the phone.” “Ang bilis kasi ni Ratsky. Ganun siya katinik,” Pops said calling the Bababaero hitmaker. She recalled having just done Just Say You Love Me with Rowell Santiago. “He is nga is my ka-partner, but si Ratsky ‘yung makulit, ‘di ba? Siya ‘yung
Intense scenes in Makiling Makiling, promises a riveting experience for viewers in its second week, delivering a rollercoaster of intense emotions as it continues to unveil a captivating narrative of mystery and revenge. First aired last January 8, Makiling’s initial week had audiences on the edge of their
Pops Fernandez funny, siya ‘yung tatawag,” she said. According to Pops, “Naging boyfriend ko si Ratsky over the phone and I think back then, may girlfriend din si Randy. Sorry!” “Hindi ko lang alam kung alam niya dati na girlfriend ako ni Randy on the phone. Now, alam na niya.” Pops also shared that her mom once allowed her to go on a movie date with Randy but “hindi na uli na ulit. Na-freak out na si mama.” “That ended our phone conversation. Break na kami,” she said. In the interview, Pops also
confirmed that Gary Valenciano once courted her, but it did not amount to an official relationship. “Nanligaw,” Pops said, pertaining to Gary Valenciano. “He would call me ‘til wee hours of the morning. Siyempre, kiligkilig naman ako.” At that time, she and her exhusband Martin Nievera were “not at all” in a relationship. So how did she end up with Martin? According to Pops, “it was the constant togetherness.” “Madadala ka rin naman talaga sa mga tao, ‘di ba? Mga fans, they loved us together. We See POPS p11
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seats, garnering positive reviews across various social media platforms due to its gripping storyline and intense scenes. Headlined by the Elle Villanueva and Derrick Monasterio, the series has already made a strong impact. “Pasabog na ang Afternoon See MAKILING p11
JANUARY 16 - 31, 2024
DANIEL... From page 9
SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS
tinutukoy na Mermaid sa blind item ay ang misis ni Patrick at ang Disco ay si Daniel na spotted umano sa isang bar na may “something” na ginagawa. Nabanggit din sa post ang “eat squad” na tumutukoy raw sa “Nguya Squad,” ang pangalan ng grupong magkakaibagan na sina Patrick at Aeriel, KathNiel, Gabbi Garcia, Khalil Ramos, Joe Vargas, Bianca Yanga, Josef
Elizalde, Marco Gumabao at Dominic Roque. Matatandaan na ilan pa sa mga idinadawit na third party sa hiwalayang KathNiel ay sina Gillian Vicencio, Andrea Brillantes, Liza Soberano, at Julia Barretto. Hanggang ngayon, wala pa ring solid claim o kumpirmasyon mula sa mga partidong involved upang matigil na nga ang matagal na chismis patungkol sa breakup ng dating mag-dyowa. Pauline del Rosario/Bandera
NADINE... From page 9
LOVE... From page 8
music or pottery, not necessarily projects in showbiz. Like even personal projects,” she shared. Her horror movie with director Mikhail Red entitled Nokturno is still undergoing postproduction. “Hindi rin ako makapagsabi kung kelan siya lalabas kasi editing stage siya. So I’m not really sure when it’s going to come out,” Lustre said. ABS-CBN
Feleo, Valerie Concepcion. Also joining the series are Ervic Vijandre, Faye Lorenzo and Victor Anastacio. Completing the star-studded cast are Nonie Buencamino, Samantha, Shyr Valdez and Malou De Guzman. Catch Love. Die. Repeat. directed by Jerry Sineneng and Irene Villamor. Global Pinoys can the program via GMA Pinoy TV.
How to Start a Co-op: An Introductory Course for Farmers! Are you interested in starting a co-operative? Join Young Agrarians for their new online course, How to Start a Co-op: An Introductory Course for Farmers! It can be both inspiring and terrifying to think about starting a co-op. For farmers and farmadjacent businesses, co-ops have been a tried-and-tested solution for addressing market-based problems. You will have a chance to learn about the diverse applications of the co-operative model, and practice applying the tools, resources, and knowledge that you can use to co-create your own thriving co-op. This program has been designed for people who want to explore what it means to co-create a farm or farm-adjacent
co-operative. You do not need to have prior experience with co-ops nor be a farmer to participate in this program. Developed by Emi Do, the Young Agrarians Co-op Coordinator, this course aims to help new and aspiring farmers and farm-allies understand the benefits, possibilities and realities of applying co-operative operating models to the farming world. We hope you can join Young Agrarians for this exciting opportunity to dig into cooperative solutions! When: January 23 - March 19, 2024 Learn more and register here: https://youngagrarians.org/ courses/how-to-start-a-co-op/ #youngagrarians
SARAH... From page 8
MAKILING... From page 10
rumours since late last year after the public noticed that Sarah was absent at Annabelle’s birthday celebration. The married couple has yet to comment on the rumours, but they unfollowed each other on Instagram last week. GMA Integrated News
Prime. Grabe, ganda din nito,” exclaimed a netizen who watched the pilot week’s episodes. Others praised the show for its fresh concept and engaging storyline, expressing eagerness for the upcoming episodes. “Ganda ng istorya. May bago na naman akong aabangan.” shared one viewer. “Parang pelikula!” added another. As the plot unfolds, viewers will witness Amira’s (Elle) struggles, particularly with the mysterious plant Mutya, which threatens to either be a blessing or a curse. Tensions will rise between Amira and her sister Rose (Thea Tolentino) due to jealousy and conflicting views on family-related issues. Amira and Alex’s relationship will face challenges, and Amira’s life will take a darker turn as she encounters the notorious Crazy 5 — a group of powerful, entitled bullies — who inflict unprecedented pain upon her. Amidst the turmoil in Amira’s
POPS... From page 10 really do have chemistry, you know?” she said. She said Martin never really courted her, but instead was always with her. “Parati ko lang nakakasama, si Martin. So, it’s easy naman to fall in love with Martin,” Pops said. The two tied the knot in 1986 and had their marriage annulled in 2000. Martin and Pops continue to be friends. Martin is now in a relationship with Anj del Rosario, while Pops is single and ready to mingle. GMA Integrated News
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Elle Villanueva & Derrick Monasterio life, she remains faithful to her belief in Maria Makiling’s protection. The question arises: Will Maria Makiling continue to be on her side? Viewers should definitely not miss out on the coming episodes as the identity of Maria Makiling will also be revealed very soon.
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OUR COMMUNITY PILIPINO EXPRESS
JANUARY 16 - 31, 2024
Retro Divas Glitz and Glam Christmas Party, Dec 19
Happy birthday to the lovely December celebrants of Retro Divas!
OUR HEALTH
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Are all calories created equal? Dear Mayo Clinic: I’ve heard “a calorie is a calorie” when it comes to weight loss, but can that really be true? With the number of diets out there (keto, intermittent fasting, Mediterranean), I’m completely overwhelmed with what I’m meant to be doing. Answer: Yes and no. (Isn’t that always the answer to nutrition inquiries?) While a calorie may be a calorie when it comes to the mathematical equation of weight loss, there’s more to it. Calories are a unit of energy. The total calories a food or beverage provides depend on the number of grams of carbohydrates, protein, fat and/or alcohol contained. The number of calories, though, does not predict how we’ll feel afterward. For example, a 200-calorie snack of an apple with peanut butter is going to help you feel fuller and more satisfied than a 200-calorie snack of chips. The difference is in not only the food composition but food volume as well. The apple and peanut butter snack will provide fiber, fat, water and some protein. The majority of these attributes are lacking when it comes to the chips. Think volume too — the apple snack will stretch the stomach more due to its larger size, sending that fullness signal to the brain. The 200 calories
worth of chips also are going to be digested and leave the stomach faster than the apple because there’s not much breakdown that needs to happen. We also can’t talk about this topic without referencing health outcomes. It is well known that the composition of one’s diet, or dietary pattern, is significant. A plant-based diet containing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, unsaturated fats and lean proteins provides the body with balanced nutrition that can decrease the risk of chronic conditions. There are multiple ways to do this healthfully. Diet styles such as Mediterranean, DASH and the Mayo Clinic Diet are examples of eating patterns that focus on high nutrient density and have been shown to promote positive health outcomes. This also can be done through a well-planned vegetarian diet. It’s important to take both your food preferences and health concerns or goals into account. So, what about weight loss? Here’s where calories are crucial. For example, even a Mediterranean diet does not guarantee weight loss if a calorie deficit is not present. Olive oil and nuts are excellent sources of healthy fat, but when eaten without one’s total calorie intake in mind, it could, technically, cause weight gain. Using the
style of eating that is best for you, consider working toward a 250-750 calorie per day deficit. This may be swapping your mid-afternoon snack for a piece of fruit or skipping your usual sweetened coffee or alcoholic beverage. The body needs to burn more than it’s consuming to produce weight loss. While exercise is always going to be recommended, it’s important to remember that exercise alone is not likely to get most people into that roughly 500-calorie deficit. The majority of us will be most successful with weight loss through dietary changes. Most diets work because adapting your baseline eating habits to fit a specific diet’s protocol will likely cause you to eat fewer calories. Good news, right? Possibly. This is only going to benefit someone who can stay on said diet long term. Diets that endorse or require drastic and unrealistic changes
(such as the cabbage soup diet) aren’t sustainable. And when a diet is not sustainable, the weight loss won’t be either. So, start here: Choose a healthful diet that fits your personal eating and health preferences. Work toward a gradual calorie deficit, ideally limiting
excess (more than you need) and empty (non-nutrition-providing) calories. Remember that a slow, steady and sustainable approach is most likely to help you achieve a healthy weight. — Tara Schmidt, Registered Dietitian, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota/ Mayo Clinic News Network
EH KASI, PINOY!
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PILIPINO EXPRESS
KROSWORD NO. 433 Ni Bro. Gerry Gamurot
PAHALANG 1. Nipa 4. Tipid 7. Sikip 8. Labas 11. Iwan 14. Ihahayag 16. Kulo 17. Kanta 18. Uri ng halaman 19. Pintas 21. Gamit sa boksing 23. Kaawa-awa 24. Diwata 26. Habag 27. Tindi 29. Alinsunod 31. Hulapi 32. Titulong maharlika 34. Kung 35. Paghiwalayin PABABA 1. Hahayaang dumaan 2. Ipagiling 3. Malay 4. Huli 5. Ipanganak
6. Ginawang matatag 9. Tulyapis 10. Dalisay 12. Bunyag 13. Liping minorya 15. Titig 20. Puting buhok 22. Diskarga 24. Talastas 25. Konsorte 28. Dating boksingero 30. Pakinabang 33. Panghalip
SAGOT SA NO. 432
JANUARY 16 - 31, 2024
JANUARY 16 - 31, 2024
PEOPLE & EVENTS PILIPINO EXPRESS
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Why I need to write an open letter to Jokoy about his Golden Globes monologue by Marisse G. Abelgas (Editor’s Note: Marisse G. Abelgas is the former editor of the Philippine Post and former PR and marketing director of a Los Angeles-based Filipino chain of restaurants and food production company. She wrote a weekly column for the Post. She is now retired.) Why? Because, Joseph Glenn Herbert Sr., you are an extremely talented and outstanding comedian. Because, the Filipino American community holds you in high esteem. Because, you are an icon of Filipino-ness, a symbol of professional success in the entertainment industry, a Pinoy folk hero if you will, so deserving of adulation. Because, I adore you. Always have, ever since I discovered your standup comedy shows on Netflix and clips on YouTube and which I still find so funny no matter how many times I watch them. And never mind how some of your raunchy jokes tend to regress to a seeming obsession with private body parts…your rice, munggo, ethnic accents and nurse lines nonetheless land with me all the time, and I don’t mind telling everyone else the boisterous laughter you elicit from this retired, normally discreet grandma is the kind that future Golden Globes audiences will hopefully get to experience from you someday. But for now, yes, Joseph, at the Golden Globes Awards night, you bombed. Crashed. Burned. Disappointingly. Painfully. Excruciatingly. And as a self-confessed fan, I have some theories about that. You were too, shall we say, Filipino. Your jokes were Filipino disguised as mainstream. Don’t get me wrong. I’m very proud of you for being Filipino and announcing it to the world. That night however, you let your heritage get in the way of your job. Regrettably, disastrously so. Fun fact: the art of stand-up comedy is a delicate balance between humor, timing and relatability. When comedians take the stage, they aim to connect with the audience, to elicit laughter through shared experiences. You do this every time and you’ve undeniably mastered the art of relating with your adoring audiences in sold-out venues. At the Golden Globes, however, your attempts at humor were not met with the usual thundering applause; instead, you faced a lack of resonance, a virtual brick wall that stopped you dead in your tracks. Watching it on TV, I could sense it a few minutes in. Your live audience saw it from the getgo, and those camera shots of lost or grimacing faces weren’t pretty.
Comedy walks a fine line, and you definitely pushed the boundaries of acceptability in pursuit of the laughs that night. But those digs at Barbie? Oppenheimer? Taylor Swift? Another penis joke? Joseph, what were you thinking? Given the times we’re in, even a 12-yearold would know in advance that for an audience of A-list celebrities – let alone a global audience that saw and liked those films – content like that would be perceived as offensive and/ or unsuitable for the occasion. If the audience cringed and gave you pity laughter, I, your ardent Filipino fan, choked on my Lola cuss words. Was it cultural dissonance? You always draw on your Filipino-American heritage for comedic material. But the majority of the Golden Globes audience was not familiar with the cultural background you drew from. When you (jokingly) complained that the organizers wanted to honour your culture with food but served sushi instead, you quipped:” We cook our fish.” Ehhhh. And when you said your nice velvet tuxedo used to be a couch…there it was! The full Filipino-ness of the joke and a Filipino-American comedian coming together in one gale force of delightful kakornihan (cornyness). Of course, the audience didn’t get it. How could they? They have no sense of delightful Filipino kakornihan. Their loss nga (indeed), but how would they know? They’re not Filipino. Many, many years ago, my husband and I attended a Christmas party thrown by the Philippine Department of Tourism in Los Angeles. The program was emceed by a littleknown but very talented Fil-Am singer/comedian named Joseph Gelito (sorry, not you). At one point during the program, he spotted my husband (who was wearing a soft, bulky, leather bomber jacket) walking back to his seat, inadvertently drawing some attention off his emceeing. He followed my husband with his eyes, then glanced at me, and with impeccable timing and finesse, said very coyly, “Si Tito talaga, sinuot na naman yung couch namin! “(“Uncle, really, you’re wearing our couch again!” It wasn’t demeaning; it wasn’t self-deprecating either. It was absolutely, delightfully Pinoyfunny. I still laugh quietly at the joke whenever I remember it. But I digress. Cultural dissonance aside, your delivery of punch lines seemed so off that your audience probably never had the chance to fully engage with the humor. We can’t blame them for that. You may be a household name in the Fil-Am community but I’m guessing the majority of the Golden Globes attendees had never heard of you. Unfamiliar
with your style, your comedic persona or previous work, they clearly struggled to connect with you but failed to understand the nuances of your material. Not your fault either, I guess, but a little homework along those lines might have helped a great deal. Regardless, I’m still one of your biggest fans. If that’s still lost on you, how about this: you walked a fine line that night and you stumbled, big time. But that’s not the point. The point is, you were brave and bold enough to take on the job when clearly so many others –reportedly more
famous and experienced than you– declined for lack of prep time or simply lack of guts. Brave and bold, Joseph. That’s very Filipino. That by itself, already makes you a cut above the rest. The only reason you probably tripped all over yourself was because you kept thinking Filipino-centric jokes (or Filipino jokes disguised as mainstream) are the funniest in the world. They are. But only to us. Somewhere out there is another world where comedy requires stepping out of your comfortably, delightfully Filipino self for a few hours and
maybe dropping some of those machismo-stoking jokes from your repertoire. Somewhere out there is a world where Jokoy can, and should be, the illustrious stand-up comedian everyone expects him to be…funny, witty, delightfully mainstream, globally famous but fiercely proud of his Filipino heritage. It’s what the community wants for you. It’s what I and all your adoring fans want for you. So, dust everything off and get back out there. Time to turn your velvet couch into a better tuxedo.
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PILIPINO EXPRESS
JANUARY 16 - 31, 2024