Pilipino Express • Jun 1 2023

Celebrating Pinay Trailblazers

Now in its seventh year, Pinays Manitoba Inc. continues to celebrate the achievements of women who lead, inspire and motivate.

Days before she flies to Pattaya City, Thailand, to compete in an international beauty pageant, Adrian Reyes was still hard at work with rehearsals and needed preparations.

The 28-year-old Winnipegger is the official Canadian representative to the Miss International Queen 2023, considered the world’s biggest beauty pageant for transgender women.

Pilipino Express (PE) spoke to Adrian about her quest for the crown.

PE: When or how did you become the official representative of Canada to Miss International Queen 2023?

Adrian: March last year, I won my very first national competition, the Miss Philippines-Canada Queen Pride in Calgary. I believe this gave me an edge when I applied to represent Canada for Miss international Queen back in December, as well as my community work. January, I was informed that I was chosen to represent Canada. By March we started preparing.

PE: Tell us about the preparations you’re doing.

Adrian: First, I had to create a team. It consists of a trainer for my walk, trainer for the Q&A, for fitness, and my gowns. And I’m proud to say that all my gowns were made by local Fil-Canadian designers.

The 2023 the Pinays Manitoba Trailblazer awardees (l-r) The Honourable Senator Flordeliz Gigi Osler, Atty. Alona C. Mercado, Azel Navarro and Jacqueline Monique Drapeau. Pinays Manitoba Trailblazer Awards, May 27, 2023, Viscount Gort Hotel, Winnipeg. See pp 12& 13

Credit: Sarah’sFacebook

Photo by Rey-Ar

Malaya Marcelino recognizes Pinays Manitoba’s work

On May 17, 2023, MLA for Notre Dame Malaya Marcelino did a Member’s Statement in recognition of the work of Pinays Manitoba Inc. Pinays Manitoba does an annual Trailblazers Recognition Awards for Filipino women who have been making positive contributions to the Manitoba community.

MLA Marcelino’s Member Statement

Founded in 2016, Pinays Manitoba Inc. stands as a testament to the strength of Filipino women in Manitoba.

The term Pinays is a Filipino expression that refers to Filipino women and identity for those living abroad.

As a registered community organization, Pinays Manitoba is unwavering in its commitment to empowering Filipino women in Manitoba through education, advocacy, and providing scholarships to graduating high school students.

With a clear mission to address unique challenges faced by Filipino women, Pinays Manitoba actively works towards

developing role models for our diverse community, most especially for the next generation of Filipino women.

Their vision is to recognize the remarkable contributions made by Filipino women of all ages across our province and aims to celebrate these women as catalysts for positive change.

As Pinays Manitoba celebrates the seven-year anniversary, the organization continues to evolve and respond to the needs of the community. As their flagship program, the Annual Pinays Manitoba Trailblazers Recognition Awards, has showcased remarkable achievements of its recipients over the past seven years, these Filipino women exemplify the spirit of Pinays Manitoba, making positive and impactful contributions to the community and inspiring change in people’s lives.

I am truly blessed to work alongside with these women leaders.

– Malaya Marcelino, MLA for Notre Dame May 17, 2023

MLA for Notre Dame Malaya Marcelino made a Member’s Statement in recognition of the work of Pinays Manitoba Inc. In the photo with Malaya from left to right are Pinays Manitoba’s Josie Concepcion, Winnie Navarro, Emmie Joaquin, Araceli Ancheta and Connie De Villa. May 17, 2023, Manitoba Legislative building.

How can you be a stem cell hero.

After what felt like an especially long winter, everyone agrees that it is wonderful to have spring and summer arrive on the prairies. Even though we live in a culture that values technology and luxury, people are still drawn to the allure of the great outdoors. In Manitoba, these next few months will give us more opportunity to take a leisurely stroll in the park, go for a hike on some trails, or have a relaxing day at the beach. Immersing ourselves in nature offers many benefits to our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. There are so many advantages to spending time outdoors whenever we can. Reconnecting with nature can enhance our overall quality of life.

Physical health

1. The natural environment provides numerous opportunities for physical activity, which leads to health benefits. Try to engage in activities such as walking, jogging, cycling, or engaging in team sports. This will promote

cardiovascular fitness, strengthen your muscles, and improve overall endurance. The fresh air, abundant sunlight, and vitamin D from the sun contribute to stronger bones and a boosted immune system. Additionally, outdoor activities often require different movement patterns, and this provides a more varied and holistic workout compared to indoor exercises. Research indicates that grounding or “earthing” is a practice that can improve our health. This is when a person takes off their shoes and makes contact with the surface of the Earth for at least a few minutes. No shoes are worn when a person goes for a walk barefoot on grass, sand, or rocks. This healthy practice allows one to be more present in the moment.

Mental and emotional well-being

2. Spending time outdoors has a remarkable impact on mental and emotional well-being. Nature has a soothing effect on the mind,

helping to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Exposure to natural settings stimulates the production of endorphins and serotonin, which are known as the “feel-good” hormones. The serene ambiance of natural landscapes like fields, sand and water allows us to relax, rejuvenate, and escape from the demands of everyday life.

Moreover, the outdoors offers a break from the constant stimulation of screens and technology, allowing our minds to unwind and recharge. Nature provides a space for reflection, self-discovery, and introspection. It encourages mindfulness and enables individuals to be fully present in the moment, leading to a sense of clarity and inner peace.

Cognitive development and creativity

3. Nature has a profound impact on improved brain functioning, as well as on creativity. Research suggests that exposure to natural environments enhances our attention span, improves concentration, and boosts memory. Regular outdoor activities, especially in green spaces, have been linked to

improved academic performance in children and increased cognitive functioning in adults. Furthermore, the natural world stimulates creativity and fosters imaginative thinking. The vastness and diversity of landscapes spark curiosity and inspire innovative ideas. Whether it’s exploring a dense forest, observing wildlife, or gazing at a starry night sky, nature’s wonders ignite our imagination and encourage us to think beyond the ordinary things in life.

Social connection and community

4. Being outdoors promotes social interaction and connection with others. Parks, trails, and recreational areas serve as gathering spaces, encouraging individuals, families, and communities to come together and engage in shared activities. In Manitoba, it’s great to go to a park or the beach on the weekend and see so many family and community gatherings. These occasions improve our social skills too because people are more likely to talk to each other, rather than staring at their phones or devices. Participating

in outdoor sports and group adventures fosters teamwork, cooperation, and the development of communication skills. Nature provides a common ground for people from diverse backgrounds to connect, build relationships, and form lasting bonds.

Spiritual growth

5. When people are outdoors and in the present moment, we are more likely to connect with the world around us. Sometimes the beauty of nature can leave us speechless, and we get more curious about who or what created the beauty of this world. We can also contemplate how large the world is and how our time on Earth is short. There can be more focus on happiness and helping others, rather than material things.

The benefits of being outdoors are undeniable. Nature has a transformative power that enriches our lives in countless ways. Because our Manitoba summers are so short, let’s all make sure that we prioritize time outdoors as much as possible!

Cheryl Dizon-Reynante is a licensed therapist with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.

Artificial Intelligence: Unlocking the future

“In the realm of technology, there’s been a recent buzz that’s hard to ignore. Artificial Intelligence, or AI, has taken centre stage, captivating headlines and conversations worldwide. With its rapid advancements and growing presence in our daily lives, AI has become the talk of the town. From personalized recommendations to virtual assistants and smart home automation, AI’s potential to revolutionize how we live, work, and interact is no longer a distant dream. In the last few months alone, the spotlight on AI has intensified, unveiling a wave of innovative applications, and igniting both curiosity and excitement among users and experts alike.”

Artificial Intelligence, specifically, companies like OpenAI’s ChatGPT has been making headlines for months now. What is it and what are the benefits? Let me show you the ways.

First, the introduction to this month’s article was written entirely by using ChatGPT, which it wrote in seconds. My direction was to have it write a brief introduction to my article that should include AI’s benefits and how it has become a hot topic in the past few months. As you can see, it delivered, and yes, it took merely seconds to write that for me. The remainder of my article, I wrote myself. You’ll have to trust me on that.

Artificial Intelligence, or

AI, has been around for a long time. My first introduction to this concept was in the movie 2001: A Space Odyssey. That movie was released in 1968! Since then, we see it referenced in movies, like in the Terminator franchise, where AI is portrayed as the villain that is responsible for the end of humankind. AI has always had a bit of a negative connotation, and that’s why I completely understand people’s apprehension to the tech. Yet, AI is weaved into our everyday lives, and we didn’t even know it!

AI is used on our phones (Siri) or when binge watching our favourite shows on Netflix. Social media uses AI to analyze user behaviour and creates preferences to curate personalized content feeds. Have you ever used the chat function when contacting

your cell phone provider? Yep, you guessed it, that is AI as well.

There are many forms of AI platforms where you can have it create essays, images and even songs! The most popular platform at the moment is the aforementioned ChatGPT, which stands for Chat Generative Pretrained Transformer. ChatGPT specifically focuses on generating responses in a conversational context, making it suitable for chatbot applications and interactive dialogue systems.

I have used it many times in my day-to-day. It has helped proofread documents, speeches and more. It has even suggested content that I would not have thought of. I don’t count on this service, but I can safely say I have become more proficient at my job.

I’m not alone, I know so many

who use it daily. In fact, there are reports that there are over 100 million users worldwide!

So, what are the benefits of AI? Smart home automation for one. AI-powered smart homes can automate various tasks, such as adjusting temperature settings, lighting, and security systems. It can also be your own

See ARTIFICIAL p5

One of the objectives of the Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Act is to keep families together. IRPA s.3(1) states, “the objectives of this Act with respect to immigration are…(d) to see that families are reunited in Canada.”

It may seem to many failed sponsors and applicants that the immigration laws are intended to keep families apart, but the reality is something quite different. If you or your loved ones are in a processing queue, then you are that much further than those whose submissions were returned or refused. When you are too close to the matter it seems that the law is working against you and not in your interests.

The negative perception is something that the current minister, Sean Fraser, has been addressing over the past few months. In a ministerial statement dated May 26, 2023, Minister Fraser addressed a number of issues that many may be unaware of, including changes in processing, a new open work permit for spousal and family stream applicants, and open work permit extensions for work permit holders whose permits are set to expire between August 1, and the end of the year. Before you condemn the governing Liberal party, or it’s appointed minister, the changes are something to examine.

ARTIFICIAL...

From page 4

personal virtual assistant. Do you have an iPhone? Have Siri assist with scheduling appointments, setting reminders, and answering questions. Concerned about your health? AI can monitor your health by analyzing data from smart devices like a smart watch. It can track your fitness and sleep patterns. It can even detect if the user has fallen and will call authorities if it senses that the person is not moving. Fascinating stuff, eh?

Like many other forms of technology, it comes with its downsides. History has shown that nefarious people will always find ways to scam innocent folk. How many spam calls from “Canada Revenue” do you get on

IRCC keeping families together

Minister Fraser spoke in positive terms of improving the processing times for temporary resident visa (TRV) applicants. The families are anxious to bring members into Canada for a variety of reasons – to attend marriages, funerals, sick relatives, or just to bond with family members who are living in the country.

It is not surprising that family members want to reunite but it is surprising, for some, that government officials are working to that end. As a retired federal and provincial immigration officer, I can assure the readers that Minister Fraser is not alone in his efforts to make things work better for foreign nationals and Canadian hosts.

Minister Fraser has set the following standards for IRCC to deliver to program users: most TRVs will be processed in 30 days; spouses, partners, and dependents will be able to apply for an open work permit as soon as they submit an application for permanent residence inside Canada or under the in Canada class (SPCLC). This process appears to be a reworking of an existing measure for in-Canada applications, but the steps have been refined under the current requirement to submit all applications, including family class, online.

Minister Fraser announced that spousal and partner

your phone? How many messages from Nigerian princes offering you $10 million did you get when e-mail began?

With the advent of new AI tech, it is making it more difficult to spot a scam. Take the voice recognition software scam. AI can create an entire message by taking samples of someone’s voice. You may think you are receiving a call from a child, friend or family member asking for money to help bail them out of jail. It will sound like them, but is in fact, an AI generated message. As with anything, if it is too good to be true or too far-fetched, keep your wits about you. If you don’t know how to do that, ask ChatGPT to help.

Dale manages the communications department for a school district in B.C.

applicants, along with other open work permit holders, whose permits are set to expire between August 1 and the end of 2023 will be able to extend their permits by an additional 18 months. A similar option was recently offered to many foreign student graduates with expired post-graduate work permits. Yes, to the nay sayers, the department actually identified the students in question and encouraged them to apply for the extensions. IRCC is not only promising changes but is also participating in making them happen.

Immigration continues to be important for Canada’s future and our recovery from the global pandemic. Family reunification is an important pathway to attract more applicants and their spouses, partners, children, and other dependents to the country.

Minister Fraser can speak proudly of the efforts of his department to attract and retain newcomers by a number of changes including the bringing together of families. I have seen evidence of the improvement in departmental services and commend the government on their efforts to improve processing times, outcomes and decrease backlogs. The work is being done and we should pay respectful attention to the words of Minister Fraser in his press release.

“Family reunification through immigration is not only a matter of compassion; it is a fundamental pillar of Canadian society. Today’s announcement is a mandate commitment to help build inclusive and resilient communities. We are supporting Canadians and newcomers by reuniting families faster, and

also allowing them to work and support themselves more quickly once they’re here. By doing so, Canada is helping newcomers achieve their true potential, while also strengthening Canada’s economy and social fabric.”

The early signs support the Minister’s optimism, and we should be more aware of the improvements and changes as they occur.

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.

When teachers attempt to convince their students why they should care about the study of history, they often say it is to prevent the past from repeating itself. This claim treats history as a message from the past, warning us of mistakes made in the past. In this way, the past can shape the present. However, the present also affects how we understand the past.

This is expressed in a quotation by L.S. Stavrianos, a world historian, who stated that “Each generation must write its own history, not because past histories are untrue but because in a rapidly changing world, new questions arise and new answers are needed.” This also reveals the fact that the discipline and study of history are not the simple memorization of past events, dates, or people. These make the foundation, though, of what historians do: interpret, explain, and try to understand the past.

This was demonstrated to me very recently in an excellent essay by Resil B. Mojares in his collection Interrogations in Philippine Cultural History, published in 2017 by the Ateneo de Manila University Press. In his article on Andres Bonifacio, Mojares states that “From [his] death in 1897 to the present,

ADRIAN...

From page 1

PE: How does your family feel about all this?

Adrian: My family is very supportive. Since I was little, I’ve always been flamboyant. I am very attuned to my feminine side. I liked playing with dolls rather than cars. I liked girl playmates more. My family accepts me for who I am.

PE: What do you wish to achieve by joining the pageant?

Adrian: I would like people to have a better understanding and acceptance of the LGBTQ + community.

I would like people to realize that transgender people are like everyone else just trying to live their lives. That is why my advocacy is trans visibility – to be seen, to be heard, to be accepted. To have the same dignity and rights as everyone else.

PE: Is there a particular issue that you want to highlight in joining the competition?

Adrian: People should stop treating trans people as abnormal, or that being one is a disease. Threats should stop. There should be more education and awareness about this.

PE: Have you experienced discrimination yourself because you’re transgender?

Adrian: Many times! I was called names; I was looked at funny when I tried to use the girls’ washroom in school. At

estimates of his place in Philippine history have been entangled in the issue social classification, as part of the larger debate on the social and intellectual genealogy of the 1896 Philippine Revolution.” That is, did the Philippine Revolution come from the “masses” or from the educated Filipino elite? This question contrasts two major historical figures – Bonifacio and Jose Rizal, perhaps the most famous ilustrado in Philippine history.

The popular tradition of Bonifacio’s story was that he was a lower-class man, a “Great Plebeian” akin to the common man. Mojares, comparing the images of Bonifacio and Rizal, wrote that “in the popular imagination, [Bonifacio] is the man with the bolo, wearing camisa chino and kundiman trousers, set against the Westernattired Rizal with his book and overcoat.” Isabelo de los Reyes, writing shortly after the outbreak of the Revolution, described Bonifacio as a “simple warehouseman or storekeeper.”

However, Mojares demonstrates that Bonifacio was likely of a higher standing. He had education and was literate in Spanish, a mark of some distinction in late 19th century Philippines. His association with foreign trading

The character of the Philippine Revolution

and manufacturing businesses put him in the middle of “the most advanced sector of the colonial economy.” Tondo, where he lived and worked, was not the same as it is today; it was then “Manila’s most vital urban district” due to its proximity to the sea and rivers. Why does it matter whether Bonifacio was a lowly plebeian or someone of a higher standing?

As I said at the beginning, it has to do with how the Philippine Revolution is interpreted. Was it a movement of the masses or of the colonial elite? The masses, epitomized by farmers and peasants, have a rich and powerful imagery in Philippine history. Often portrayed as “true” Filipinos, they are those who work hard, live modest lives, value family and traditional values, and fight against oppression. The elite, most notably the ilustrado, represent a different image of the Philippines, one that was connected to broader global forces such as manufacturing, modernity, intellectual excellence. These were ones who, having received a Western education, conceived the intellectual, theoretical theories of Philippine nationalism and independence.

If the Philippine Revolution, proclaimed on 12 June 1896 – an event the Winnipeg Filipino community is now gearing up to celebrate – is the founding moment of the modern

Philippines, it’s character affects the nation today. Is the Philippines one for the “masses” (however we might interpret that term today) or for the elite? The answer to this has had significant effects upon the writing of Philippine history.

During the period of American colonialism, when integrating into a “respectable” world order was important for Filipino development, Bonifacio was downplayed and the importance of Rizal was built up. With the advance of more left-wing politics in the Philippines, especially during the Cold War and the period of Marcos’ Martial Law, the figure of Bonifacio was “resurrected as an exemplar of the masses.” As Mojares notes about this shift in emphasis on the origins of Philippine nationalism, “the political necessities of the ‘present’ determined how the past was represented.”

The complicated reality is that Philippine nationalism and independence didn’t come from Bonifacio or Rizal alone. They developed amidst incredibly varied motivations in the late 19th and early 20th century Philippines. Today’s society needs to recognize that just as the past affects us today, so does our world today affect our understanding of the past. The way we see the past reflects that past itself while also showing us our own reflection.

Jon Malek received his PhD from Western University and currently teaches history at the University of Manitoba. He is working on a book manuscript on the history of the Winnipeg Filipino community.

first I got mad, but then I realized they’re just ignorant. That is why I believe more awareness and education is needed. We are not going away. We also want to make a mark in this world. We need real acceptance.

PE: How can kababayans in Winnipeg help or support your quest for the crown?

Adrian: They can support my social media, @thequeenadrian. I also have a Go Fund Me page.

*** The Miss International Queen is an annual pageant held in Pattaya, Thailand since

2004. It aims to bring awareness to the LGBTQ + community and equality in society as well as in the workforce, while all the monetary profits from the television broadcast go to the Royal Charity AIDS Foundation of Thailand.

This year’s pageant will be held on June 24, 2023.

The reigning Miss International Queen is Fuschia Anne Ravena from the Philippines who was crowned on June 25, 2022.

Pilipino Express interview by Lucille Nolasco-Garrido

Adrian’s proud parents and sister

Are Sarah Geronimo, John Lloyd Cruz reuniting for a project?

Sarah Geronimo left her followers abuzz Thursday (May 25) after she posted on social media new photos of her with John Lloyd Cruz

The pictures were taken at the Viva office, with Geronimo seemingly hinting that they are reuniting for a project through her caption.

The pop superstar simply left emojis of video cameras and a clock, which some interpreted as an indication that they are about

to start filming a project together.

Others, meanwhile, were just happy to see them together again six years since they worked on Finally Found Someone, their last movie together.

In the past, Cruz admitted that he once had feelings for Geronimo, but said that “bad timing” was the reason why their friendship didn’t blossom into something more. “Timing wasn’t a friend,” he said.

Geronimo, for her part, shared

that she did have a “crush” on Cruz back when they worked in A Very Special Love, a 2008 romantic comedy that gave birth to their love team’s passionate following.

Geronimo is now married to Matteo Guidicelli, while Cruz is rumored to be in a relationship with Isabel Santos. He is also now a dad to Elias, his son with his former girlfriend Ellen Adarna

– ABS-CBN Entertainment

Tito, Vic and Joey announce Eat Bulaga! departure from TAPE

Noontime variety show Eat

Bulaga! main hosts Vic Sotto, his brother Tito Sotto, and Joey de Leon have announced that they will be parting ways with Television and Production Exponents Inc. (TAPE).

Confusion first arose when on a rerun of Eat Bulaga! aired on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, suddenly, the feed cut to the

show’s production area.

The three hosts were standing in the middle while other cohosts and staff were taking their places in preparation for the announcement.

Tito began by saying they arrived to do their regular work, however, were not allowed by new TAPE management to air a live show.

Joey then recalled that he and the Sotto brothers have been on the variety show for 44 years since starting it on July 30, 1979, “Lubos ang aming pasasalamat sa mga naging tahanan namin, unang-una ang RPN-9 for nine years, and ABS-CBN for six years, at ang GMA for 28 years.”

Vic offered his gratitude for

Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto & Joey De Leon

Sarah Geronimo & John Lloyd Cruz

TVJ...

From page 8 all the advertisers that teamed up with the show since 1979, then Tito continued by thanking fans, TAPE Inc. co-founder Tony Tuviera, and to the Lord Almighty.

After calming down the voices inside the studio, Vic said: “Hindi na namin iisahin ang laman ng aming puso at damdamin. Ang hangad lang namin ay makapagtrabaho ng mapayapa, walang maaagrabyado, at may respeto sa bawat isa.”

Vic then confirmed that beginning May 31, 2023 that he, Tito, and Joey would be parting ways with TAPE Inc.

“Karangalan namin na kami’y nakapaghatid ng tuwa’t saya mula Batanes hanggang Jolo at naging bahagi ng buhay ninyo. Marami-maraming salamat sa inyong lahat, hanggang sa muli, saan man kami dalhin ng tadhana, tuloy ang isang libo’t isang tuwa,” ended Vic, raising his fist as his brother followed suit.

The trio’s co-hosts who were present – Paolo Ballesteros, Maine Mendoza, Jose Manalo, Wally Bayola, Allan K, and Ryan Agoncillo – all gave them embraces as Vic and Joey said one more time before leaving the stage area, “We love you, byebye.”

A reliable source confirmed to Philstar.com that Eat Bulaga! is in talks with Bacolod City mayor See TVJ p11

TVJ...

From page 9

Albee Benitez for a transfer to rival network TV5.

Benitez is the founder and owner of Brightlight Productions, the TV production company behind Eat Bulaga! former rival noontime show Lunch Out Loud

that was later reformatted into the now defunct Tropang LOL, as well as Korina Sanchez’s show Rated Korina and variety show Sunday ‘Kada’ - both still airing on TV5 and ABS-CBN’s affiliate platforms.

Last month, Tito alleged that TAPE owed Vic and Joey at least P30 million each for the year

2022 alone, although Vic said in early May it was a much bigger figure.

“Pero sa’min ni Joey, wala ‘yun. Wala ‘yun. Ganu’n namin kamahal ang Eat Bulaga,” Vic said at the time, stressing that he and Joey do not mind getting their pay postponed.

Source: Philstar

Celebrating Pinay Trailblazers

The Pinays Manitoba Trailblazers Recognition Awards held May 27, 2023, at the Viscount Gort Hotel put a spotlight on the journeys of four amazing Filipino women for their outstanding accomplishments that have made a positive difference to the community, not only in Manitoba but also in the mainstream society at large.

Now in its seventh year, Pinays Manitoba Inc. continues to celebrate the achievements of women who lead, inspire, and motivate – the Pinays Manitoba Trailblazers.

“Today, we proudly showcase and celebrate our 2023 Pinays Trailblazer awardees. Four exceptional Filipino women in Manitoba, who have made impactful contributions to our community and beyond. Committed to serving others, opening doors of opportunities for others, breaking glass ceilings, humility, and kindness, are common traits among these four empowered Filipino women,” said Winnie Navarro, Pinays Manitoba president.

Since inception in 2016, Pinays Manitoba has given welldeserved Trailblazer awards to 20 inspirational Filipino women. “These are women, who have made positive impacts to the community and to the lives of the people around them. This allows us to develop role models for all women, most specially for the next generation of Filipino women in Manitoba. It’s people like our Trailblazers, and events like these that help make our world a better place to live in,” added Navarro.

The 2023 Pinays Trailblazer awardees (in alphabetical order)

• Jacqueline Monique Drapeau – The Executive Director of The Broadway Neighbourhood Centre. This trailblazer champions for at-risk youth, leading her team to develop social, recreational, cultural and arts programs targeted at improving the quality of life for the marginalized population and filling gaps in community services; advocating to ensure that beneficial programs are accessible to young people.

She said, “Far too often as women in society today and historically, we have to fight twice as hard to be recognized as leaders in our professions, but here we are building each other up! Pinays Manitoba is giving Pinay women a platform to shine the light on how incredible Pinay women really are!”

• Azel Navarro – The first Filipino in Manitoba to work in the field of Occupational Therapy in Mental Health, with the designation of Clinical Specialist in Adult Psychiatry. She pursued a career choice in Occupational Therapy-Mental Health, a path not a well-traveled especially for Filipinos in the 1980s.

She said, “I would like to acknowledge and highlight significant individuals who were my trailblazers, individuals who

walked alongside me and at other times pushed me from behind, to get to this point in my life. I was never alone, nor did I walk by myself. I praise and thank God for everyone He sent my way to mould, guide and light the path I travelled on and the lives He had allowed me to touch as I ran and continue to run this race called life.”

• Atty. Alona C. Mercado –Co-founder and co-owner of the first all-Asian female law firm in Manitoba, the Mercado-Trinh Law LLP. This first-of-a-kind law firm broke boundaries and has reset the rules for hiring foreigntrained professionals. Through mentorship and encouragement, she has supported the career aspirations of many highly qualified, hard-working law specialists to succeed and practice their profession in Manitoba.

She said, “I wanted to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank the five women in my life who have been my role models, my Pinay Trailblazers, as I grew up. The first is my Nanay, Minda Mercado. The other four women are my aunts, Luzonica Mercado, Marina Senaris, Mely Monton, and Ester Hembrador, who I consider to be my second mothers. I can honestly say that I would not be here today as a Pinays Manitoba Trailblazer Awardee, if not for the Pinay Trailblazers in my own life.”

• The Honourable Senator Flordeliz Gigi Osler – The first Filipino woman to be appointed to the Senate of Canada on September 26, 2022. She is also an internationally renowned surgeon specializing in ear, nose and throat. In 2017, she became the first woman surgeon and first racialized woman elected as President of the Canadian Medical Association and led the development of the CMA’s first policy on equity and diversity.

“I am filled with gratitude in accepting this Trailblazer Recognition Award. As one of Manitoba’s senators, I am honoured to represent our province and our community. Filipinos are now the third largest, and fastest growing, visible minority group in Canada. Yet we are under-represented in leadership in many sectors, including law, business, and government. I know my fellow honorees and Pinays Manitoba will change that and together, as a community, we will rise,” said Senator Osler.

One of the highpoints of the event was when Pinays Manitoba’s past-president Araceli Ancheta presented to the audience some of the previous years’ Trailblazer awardees who attended the luncheon, namely: Fe Ryder (2016); Emmie Joaquin (2018); Sally Bader, Dr. Irene Mestito-Dao and Marj Soldevilla (2020); Constable Maria Buduhan and Dr. Crystal Paculan (2022).

Luella Sadicon, VicePresident of Pinays Manitoba, gave the closing remarks. “We are See PINAYS p13

The 2023 Pinays Trailblazer awardees with the Board of Directors of Pinays Manitoba. Top row l-r: Emmie Joaquin, Public Relations; Pinay Trailblazer awardees - Hon. Senator Flordeliz Gigi Osler, Atty. Alona C. Mercado, Azel Navarro, and Jacqueline Monique Drapeau; Connie De Villa, Auditor; Maybelle De Leon-Lerio, Director. Front row, l-r: Luella Sadicon, Vice-President; Leah S. Beltran, CPA, CGA, Treasurer; Marita Salazar, Director; Winnie Navarro, President; Araceli Ancheta, Director/PastPresident; Josie Concepcion, Director; Lucille Nolasco-Garrido, Secretary; Not in photo is Margaret “Meghan” Marquez, Director.

L-r: Larry Vickar of Vickar Automotive Group, Joel Duque of Duque Immigration Services Canada, Wes McCallum of The Prolific Group, Pinay Trailblazer awardee Jacqueline Monique Drapeau, Atty. JB Casares of Casares Law Office, and Freedom Lapuz representing his father, Noel Lapuz of Kuya’s Foods

L-r: Larry Vickar, Joel Duque, Pinay Trailblazer awardee Atty. Alona C. Mercado, and Atty. JB Casares

L-r: Larry Vickar, Pinay Trailblazer awardee Azel Navarro, Wes McCallum, and Freedom Lapuz

L-r: Larry Vickar, Pinay Trailblazer awardee Hon. Senator Flordeliz Gigi Osler, Freedom Lapuz, Aida Montierro of UMAC Express Winnipeg, Atty. JB Casares, Joel Duque, and Wes McCallum

Celebrating Pinay Trailblazers

PINAYS..

From page 12 very grateful for your presence and for the warm community support we have received for this year’s event. We thank our major sponsors: Larry Vickar of Vickar Automotive Group, Joel Duque of Duque Immigration Services Canada, Wes Mc Callum of The Prolific Group, Pilipino Express, Felly Grieve of A-1 Nutrition, Atty. JB Casares of Casares Law Office, Noel and Freedom Lapuz of Kuya’s Foods, and Aida Montierro of U-MAC Express Winnipeg. We hope to see you all again next year!”

The officers and members of Pinays Manitoba with volunteers collectively worked together, and the result was a very successful event. Close to 300 guests attended the awards luncheon to celebrate women’s achievements.

Lucille Nolasco-Garrido of 92.7 FM CKJS Afternoon Pasada and Pinay director emceed the program. The youngest Pinay member, Mimi Aiello, delivered the Recognition of Treaty Lands. Pinay director Josie Concepcion did the opening prayer. Faith Fundal, host of CBC Manitoba’s Up to Speed, sang the national anthems, Lupang Hinirang and O Canada. Tes Aiello, one of Pinays Manitoba’s founding members, joined Lucille on stage to acknowledge sponsors and guests. Trailblazer awards presentors were Mayah Duque, Regina Ramos-

Urbano, Iris Yudai, and Jocelyn Striemer. Guest vocalists Jan Eleno sang Rise while Paul Ong sang This Is The Moment. Pinay directors Connie De Villa, Leah Beltran, Marita Zalazar and Belle De Leon-Lerio with the support of Pinays members tackled the reception and registration. Sally Bader headed the ushering with the help of Pinays members and volunteers, Issi Bartolome, Rodge Lopez and Jojo Lerio. Event photography by Rey-Ar Reyes of Pilipino Express and Disenyo Graphics. Event video coverage by Jake Arida. Sound system by Enrico Ancheta.

Founded in 2016, Pinays Manitoba Inc. is a nonprofit, registered community organization dedicated to support and empower Filipino women in Manitoba. Its founding president was Perla Javate, a well-known community leader, an active volunteer, and a Winnipeg School Trustee.

The Pinays Manitoba Board of Directors are Winnie Navarro, President; Luella Sadicon, VicePresident; Leah S. Beltran, CPA, CGA, Treasurer; Connie De Villa, Auditor; Lucille Nolasco-Garrido, Secretary; Emmie Joaquin, Public Relations; Araceli Ancheta, Director/Past-President; Josie Concepcion, Director; Maybelle De Leon-Lerio, Director; Margaret “Meghan” Marquez, Director; and Marita Salazar, Director.

More photos next issue

Photos by: Rey-Ar

Proud to be Pinay! The members of Pinays Manitoba with the 2023 Pinays Manitoba Trailblazer awardees. May 27, 2023, Viscount Gort Hotel

L-r: Luellla Sadicon, Gerard Madarang of PCCM, MLA Malaya Marcelino and Winnipeg School Trustee Dante Aviso

L-r: Chester Pangan of 92.7 FM CKJS, Moe El Tassi, MFSF’s Aida Champagne, Pilipino Express editor Emmie Joaquin, Pinay Trailblazer Azel Navarro, School Trustee Ann Evangelista, and MFSF’s Ley Navarro

L-r: Manitoba NDP Leader Wab Kinew, NDP MLAs Nahanni Fontaine, Malaya Marcelino, Adrian Sala, guest, Mintu Sandhu, Lisa Naylor, Diljit Brar, and Bernadette Smith

Seated l-r: Manitoba Filipino Street Festival (MFSF) organizers Verna Lazaro, Orly Sanchez, Jun and Rowena Oquendo. Standing l-r: Freddie & Nida Sion, Aida Champagne with Minister Jon Reyes, Cynthia Reyes and children, and Anna Maceda

L-r: Sam Vickar and Odessa Rosati of Vickar Automotive Group, Minister of Labour and Immigration Jon Reyes, Hon. Senator Flordeliz Gigi Osler, Dr. Irene Mestito-Dao, Marjorie Soldevilla and Cynthia Reyes

Kamakailan lamang ay nagstrike ang mga manggagawa ng Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) para ipaglaban ang pagkakaroon ng karampatang umento. Ito di-umano ang isa sa pinakalamaking pagkilos na naganap sa buong Canada. Matapos ang ilang linggo, napagtagumpayan ng union members ang kanilang ipinaglalaban.

Nang kasakuluyang nasa picket line ang mga union members ng PSAC kung saan ako ay kasapi din, ay sumagi sa isipan ko ang makasaysayang pagkilos ng mga manggagawa noong 1919.

Noong May 1, 1919, makalipas ang maraming buwan na labour negotiations ay nag-strike ang mga manggagawa ng Winnipeg. Noong sumunod na araw ay nag-strike ang mga metal workers ng Winnipeg nang ang kanilang mga employers sa metalwork factories ay hindi pumayag na makipag-negosasyon

Ang unionismo sa makabagong panahon

nanaig ang pagsupil sa karaparatan ng mga manggagawa.

sa kanilang union. Ang Winnipeg Trades and Labour Council (WTLC), ang umbrella organization for local labour ay tumawag ng general strike para suportahan ang ipinaglalaban ng mga manggagawa para sa sapat na sahod at maayos na kalagayan sa workforce. Humigit-kumulang sa 30,000 workers kasama na ang mga union members at ordinaryong mga manggagawa (non-unionized) ang sumama sa general strike na ito. Naging maayos at payapa ang strike ngunit naging agresibo ang reaksyon ng mga employers, city council at federal government. Dahil dito, ang general strike ay nagtapos sa

“Bloody Saturday” noong June 21, 1919, nang umatake ang Royal North-West Mounted Police sa assembly at pinatay ang dalawang strikers, nasugatan at inaresto ang karamihan. Isang marahas na kasaysayan ito sa Winnipeg noong

KROSWORD NO. 418

Subalit hindi nagtapos ang pakikibaka ng unionismo. Makalipas ang dalawampung taon, kinilala ng gobyerno ng Canada ang collective bargaining sa pagitan ng mga employers at union.

Ito ang dahilan kung bakit tayo ngayon na mga union members ay tinatamasa ang karapatan bilang mga unionista. Umuupo tayo sa bargaining table upang ipaglaban ang ating karapatan bilang mga manggagawa. Nandito ang union para protektahan ang ating seguridad at kalagayan.

Utang natin ang lahat ng ito sa mga nagsimula ng rebolusyon para bumuo ng isang malawakang strike o General Strike of 1919 sa Winnipeg, maraming taon na ang nakalilipas.

Sa modernong panahon ngayon, may mga nag-uusbungang isyu na dapat na pagtuunan ng pansin ng mga manggagawa. Isa na rito ang automation ng mga proseso at sistema. Marapat sigurong bigyang tuon ng union ang pag-demand sa mga employers na gawing kolektibo

ang mga panukala at polisiya na makaka-apekto sa estado at bilang ng mga manggagawa. Oo nga’t laging batayan ang attrition policy or vacancy management para hindi masabing sinibak sa puwesto ang isang manggagawa, pero paano naman ang mga susunod na henerasyon na sasabak sa workforce? May mga puwesto pa ba silang pupunuan?

Hindi anti-modernismo ang unionismo, pero sa palagay ko, kailangang balansehin ng gobyerno at ng mga pribadong sektor ang pagyakap sa modernismo na hindi nako-compromise ang hinaharap ng mga future workers.

Kung automated na lahat, ano pa ang magiging silbi ng skills ng mga manggagawa?

Tayong mga manggagawa mapamiyembro man tayo ng union o hindi ay may magagawa para sa kapakanan natin mismo. Hindi masama ang magtanong kung sa palagay ninyo ay ginugulangan na kayo ng inyong employers. Hindi masamang magtanong kung bakit ganito lang ang sinuweldo mo? Hindi masamang magtanong kung bakit hindi kayo binibigyan ng

umento gayung sa palagay ninyo ay deserving naman kayo. Lahat ng inyong tanong kaugnay ng inyong kalagayan sa trabaho ay mahalaga. Walang maliit na isyu sa workforce.

Ang karapatan ng manggagawa ay dapat kinikilala ng mga employers. Huwag tayong matakot na ipaglaban ang ating karapatan dahil napatunayan na ng mga nauna sa atin na may bunga ang pakikibaka. May liwanag matapos ang rebolusyon.

Noel Lapuz ay dating OFW sa Middle East (Dubai at Qatar). Nagtrabaho nang sampung taon sa City Hall ng Taguig bilang Human Resource Management Officer. Naging bahagi ng BataBatuta Productions bilang manunulat, entertainment host at stage actor. Nagtatag ng Kulturang Alyansa ng Taguig. Kasapi ng Ecumenical Movement for Justice and Peace (EMJP).

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

Ni Bro. Gerry Gamurot

SAGOT SA NO. 417

PAHALANG

1. Palayain

8. Uri ng lubid

11. Bungad ng maghapon

14. Makatunggali

16. Bubong

17. Apaw

18. Unlapi

19. Igapos

20. Hulapi

21. Bighani

23. Higaan 25. Pinag-uusapan

28. Silong

29. Uri ng kahoy

30. Opisina

PABABA

2. Tila

3. Kubo

4. Bughaw

5. Ilalim

6. Mawawalan ng buhay

7. Baylerina

9. Hilahin

10. Isang pinuno

12. Makisig

13. Sakim

15. Ligalig

22. Binago

24. Sapantaha

26. Suhol

27. Dagat-dagatan