Pilipino Express • Oct 1 2023

Go out and vote!

The Manitoba provincial election is Tuesday, October 3rd

Your

On

“I would encourage all Manitobans to get out and vote. Every vote is important and it’s your say in our democracy,” said Mike Ambrose, the director of communications and public information at Elections Manitoba.

•

How

East Kildonan Dental Group

Maintaining good oral hygiene is not only for a beautiful smile, but also for our overall health and wellness. That is why it’s important to take care of our oral health with the help of a knowledgeable and caring dentist.

East Kildonan Dental Group recently welcomed their newest dentist, Dr. Synjyn Biluan. Let’s get to know our kababayan dentist.

Dr. Synjyn was born and raised in Winnipeg and grew up in the Garden City area. Dr. Synjyn enjoys dancing and was a part of various dance groups in the city including Sikat Dance Company.

On the road to becoming a

See DR.

Dr. Synjyn Biluan

OUR HEALTH

What time is best for blood pressure medication?

Dear Mayo Clinic: I was recently prescribed high blood pressure medication. My routine was to take the pills before bed, but I’m finding when I do, I’m up all night using the bathroom. Does it really matter when I take the medication? Also, will I likely have to take this medication for life?

Answer: The most important thing about blood pressure medications is to take them every day simultaneously and not miss doses. Taking blood pressure medication before bed is usually unnecessary unless your doctor has specifically instructed you to.

One of the most common blood pressure medications is a diuretic or water pill. Diuretics are very effective at lowering blood pressure and are often the first therapy prescribed as a blood pressure-lowering agent. Examples of diuretic medication include hydrochlorothiazide or furosemide. These medicines are meant to remove excess fluid from the body through urination, so taking them at night will keep you up and interfere with sleep. Diuretics should normally be taken in the morning, or, if taken twice daily, at least six hours before bedtime.

In the past, many doctors recommended taking blood

pressure medication at night because heart attacks happen most often in the early morning hours. However, since blood pressure typically drops at night in people with normal and high levels, it is unnecessary to drop it further.

In addition, modern blood pressure medications are cleared from the body more slowly, so timing is less important. As long as the medication is taken regularly, preferably at the same time daily, it doesn’t matter what the clock reads.

Discussing an alternative medication with your healthcare team may be valuable if you still struggle with excessive urination overnight.

As far as whether you will take medication for life, it really depends on your situation. Lifestyle adjustments can help lower or eliminate the need for medicine over time.

Consider these recommendations to help reduce hypertension:

Dietary changes

What you eat can have a direct effect on your blood pressure. The most valuable tip is to limit sodium. Reducing the amount of salt, saturated and total fat in your diet, adding in whole grains, low-fat dairy and increasing the number of fruits and vegetables daily can help maintain normal

blood pressure. Overall, the more processed the food, the less healthy it is because more salt, sugar and saturated fats are added to make it more appealing.

Exercise regularly

Research shows that regular physical activity can aid blood pressure management. In overweight people, blood pressure can be reduced simply by losing even five pounds. The American Heart Association advises adults to aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise each week and musclestrengthening activity at least two days each week.

Limit alcohol and tobacco

Many people do not realize that alcohol increases blood pressure. It is best to refrain from alcohol; otherwise, women should limit alcoholic drinks to one a day; men limit themselves to two alcoholic drinks per day. In people older than 65, alcohol has a better chance of interacting with medications, particularly if more than one drink is consumed.

Quitting all forms of tobacco also can help improve overall health and reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.

Reduce stress

Stress alone may not cause high blood pressure, but daily

stress is more likely to elevate blood pressure, even if a person is already taking blood pressure medication. Stress can be managed in various, nonmedication ways, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and adoption of other habits, such as yoga, meditation and mindfulness. Regularly check your blood pressure and stay in touch with your healthcare team as you make lifestyle adjustments. Never

alter or stop taking medications prescribed for you without talking with your physician first, even if the side effects are challenging. But, hopefully, with diet changes, exercise and less stress, you can begin to see your blood pressure number change for the better.

– Dr. Michael Schuh and Dr. Sheena Crosby, Department of Pharmacy, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida. Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network

It’s October 2023 and is a very busy month for some! The academic school year is underway, and work projects are on the go. Whether you are a parent, teacher, or leader in your workplace, one of your tasks is to be a mentor for someone. Children, teenagers, and young adults at the start of their careers look to more experienced voices to give them advice and motivation.

Is being a mentor one of the roles and responsibilities that you have? If so, let’s talk about what key qualities and strategies make a person an outstanding mentor!

Building trust and rapport

Trust is the foundation upon which any mentorship relationship is built. Without trust, the learner may hesitate to seek guidance or share their concerns. Establishing trust involves being reliable, respectful, and empathetic.

Reliability: A good mentor is dependable and keeps their promises. They consistently provide guidance and support, ensuring that the student or mentee can count on them.

Respect: Respect for the other’s thoughts, ideas, and feelings is crucial. A mentor should value the learner’s individuality and perspectives, even if they differ from their own.

Empathy: Empathy allows mentors to understand the mentee’s challenges and emotions. It enables them to provide emotional support and guidance. It’s a good idea to regularly ask,

“How do you feel about that?” or “How is all of this hitting you?”

Effective communication

Clear and open communication is essential for a successful mentorship relationship. Effective mentors possess strong communication skills, because they must convey information and ideas in a way that resonates with learners.

Active listening: Mentors must listen actively, focusing on the concerns and questions of the person they are mentoring. This helps build trust and ensures that the guidance provided is relevant.

Constructive feedback: Offering constructive feedback is an art. Good mentors provide feedback that is specific, actionable, and supportive, fostering the mentee’s growth and improvement.

Openness to questions: Encouraging learners to ask questions promotes a culture of curiosity and learning. A good mentor welcomes questions and views them as opportunities for growth.

Setting clear goals and expectations

To guide others effectively, mentors must establish clear goals and expectations. This provides direction and helps both parties understand the purpose of the mentorship.

Goal setting: Mentors collaborate with their learners to define short-term and longterm goals. These goals serve as

Becoming a guiding light: The art of being a good mentor

roadmaps for their development.

Expectations: Clarifying expectations regarding communication frequency, feedback mechanisms, and responsibilities helps to prevent misunderstandings and ensures that both are on the same page. Sharing knowledge and experience

One of the primary roles of a mentor is to share their own stories of success, struggle, and failure. This transfer of expertise can go a long way for the growth of the student or new employee. Sharing wisdom: A good mentor shares not only technical knowledge but also life lessons and wisdom gained through experience. This provides mentees with practical knowledge, and contributes towards their sense of meaning and purpose.

Encouraging exploration: Mentors inspire others to explore new ideas and possibilities. They may introduce them to resources, networks, and opportunities.

Leading by example: Role modelling is a powerful mentoring tool. When mentors exhibit professionalism, ethics, and a commitment to continuous learning, mentees are more likely to follow suit.

Patience and adaptability

Mentoring is not easy, in part because people learn differently. Good mentors recognize the individuality of each mentee and

VOTE...

From page 1 resident of Manitoba for at least six months before election day.

• You also have to bring one piece of government-issued photo ID with your address, or two other pieces of ID. Voters are encouraged to bring their voter information card, which can be used as one piece of ID.

• Advance polls are open until September 30. You can find advance voting locations and operating hours, generally from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., online.

• Manitobans who are not registered can still register at the polls when they vote.

ANNE CAPRICE B. CLAROS

ETHEL CLEMENTE FERNANDEZ

BRO. GERRY GAMUROT

NORMAN ACERON GARCIA

LUCILLE NOLASCO GARRIDO MICHELE MAJUL-IBARRA PERLA JAVATE

adjust their approach accordingly.

Patience: Learning and growth take time. Mentors should be patient and understanding when learners face challenges or setbacks and must respond by providing constant support.

Adaptability: Every mentee has their unique strengths and weaknesses. A good mentor adapts their guidance to address the specific needs and goals of each learner.

Encouraging independence

Ultimately, the goal of mentorship is to empower others to become self-reliant and confident in their abilities.

Gradual independence: Mentors gradually encourage mentees to make decisions and solve problems on their own. This fosters self-confidence and selfsufficiency.

Celebrating achievements: Recognizing and celebrating everyone’s achievements, no matter how small, reinforces their progress and motivates further growth.

Continuous learning and improvement

The role of a mentor does not stay the same. Actually, it evolves over time. Good mentors are committed to their own growth and development and are lifelong learners themselves.

Self-reflection: Mentors periodically reflect on their mentorship relationships, seeking

Election day polls will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Oct. 3. ***

According to Elections Manitoba, when you go to vote in the 43rd general election, you may notice some changes to the voting process. These changes were designed to make voting quicker and more convenient for Manitobans.

More technology

• Laptops with access to the voters list.

• Scanners to scan voter information cards and quickly find voters on the voters list.

• Printers for printing ballots on demand in place of write-in

REGINA RAMOS URBANO

RON URBANO

KATHRYN WEBER

Youth Contributors

Aksyon Ng

ways to improve their guidance and support.

Staying informed: Mentors stay informed about industry trends, new technologies, and evolving best practices to provide up-to-date guidance.

Hopefully, mentors love what they do. The role requires a unique blend of qualities, including trustworthiness, effective communication, goal setting, knowledge sharing, patience, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement. A good mentor’s impact extends beyond the home, school, or the workplace, influencing the personal growth and development of the people they are looking out for.

Mentors provide guidance and support, and get satisfaction from watching others succeed and thrive. Aspiring mentors should embrace the responsibility and privilege of guiding the next generation, knowing that their efforts contribute to a brighter future for individuals and industries alike. By embodying the principles of good mentorship, we can create a world where knowledge, experience, and wisdom are passed down from one generation to the next, ensuring the greater good of all.

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

ballots.

• Vote counting machines to scan and accurately record ballots and provide results. Vote counting machines, also known as tabulators, scan and record ballots and then provide a count at the end of the night. These vote counting machines feature many levels of security to maintain the integrity of voting.

What stays the same is that all votes will still be recorded on paper ballots. Paper ballots will be retained for recount purposes. Voting is still safe, secure, and secret. Nobody will know how you voted.

Source: Elections Manitoba

Phone: 204-956-7845

E-Mail: info@pilipino-express.com

Website: www.pilipino-express.com

Publisher: THE PILIPINO EXPRESS INC.

Editor-in-Chief: EMMIE Z. JOAQUIN

Associate Editor: PAUL MORROW

Art Director: REY-AR REYES

JP SUMBILLO: Graphic Designer/Photographer ALEX CANLAPAN:

JAYME

JUNIE JOSUE

On September 20, 2023, a senate committee released a report on how to strengthen the country’s international student program. The report says that the student population reached about 807,750 in 2022, which represents a level more than four times greater than 2008.

The international students are beneficial to Canada’s economic recovery from the pandemic and add to the social and cultural life in Canada. The benefits are balanced against the failings and abuse of some agents who direct students into educational programs that are not eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which excludes them from work permits and opportunities to gain permanent residency. The senate committee identified several steps to improve conditions for international foreign students inside Canada. These include the following:

1. The senators are concerned about the financial sustainability of Designated Learning Institutions (DLI) in the face of “diplomatic disputes.” This is true of the current strained relationship between Canada and India. The dispute has a major impact on the recruitment of foreign students from India, which has become the major source country for foreign students.

2. The senate committee

promotes a pro-student policy to improve the conditions for foreign students at DLI colleges. This oversight is important for providing support for the students to find adequate housing and employment as well as addressing the mental health and isolation of foreign students inside Canada.

3. The college expressed their concerns about the activity of education agents who sometimes promote studies that are not eligible for a PGWP. This is important because there is a strong connection between international students and their need to obtain PGWPs to secure permanent residence following graduation.

4. The senate committee recognized the lack of adequate housing for international students. They recommend the sharing of federal data about student housing and the creation of a National Housing Strategy to connect post-secondary institutions with affordable housing options for their students.

5. It is also important for DLIs to provide their students with information about their legal rights and recourse when it comes to housing, employment, and sexual abuse. A lot of these abuses go unreported due to a lack of information for students about their rights and options in reporting.

6. It is important that a national

Senate committee recommendations on foreign student recruitment and settlement

policy strategy on temporary residence to PR pathways be available for international students after studying in Canada. This information can help students understand their options and inform them about the requirements for Canadian permanent residence. It is important for students to have a realistic picture of what they face for future employment when planning their studies and life in Canada.

7. The need for good information goes beyond employment to settlement supports for international students. These include providing international students with better care and addressing the abuses reported inside Canada. The provision of good information is important for foreign students to make correct decisions about their future, especially leading to permanent residence.

8. The committee recognizes the need for a standardized admission requirement for Canadian Language Benchmarks. A standard baseline for international students should be implemented across DLIs.

9. Concerning the recent problems encountered by foreign students regarding Letters of

Admission (LOA), it is important to add integrity to the current system to avoid the recent abuse of 700 plus foreign students from an unscrupulous consultant who fabricated admission letters.

10. The senate committee recommends changes in both the Act and Regulations to impose stronger guidelines on education agents and provide oversight measures. One recommendation is for increased fines and revocation of DLI status for those who violate new policy measures.

11. There is also a recommendation on lowering the student tuition fees, which should be tied to the operation of the DLI to reduce their over dependence on high student fees to cover the operational expenses of the schools.

12. One recommendation is for all provinces to follow the lead of Manitoba in regulating overseas educational agents and international student recruiters. Manitoba has a range of measures in its International Education Act that governs the behaviour of recruiters and imposes penalties for poor behaviour with a code of

conduct that can be used by other provinces and territories.

The list provided by the senate committee is not comprehensive, but it is a starting point. Canada has a responsibility to care for its educational recruitment. As a country and people, we will be judged on how we treat others. The global marketplace is competitive, and Canada needs to ensure that our treatment of foreign students be improved if we are to remain one of the choice countries for immigration, foreign students, and resettlement. If we are to continue to grow our economy, we must attract the brightest and the best but practice the Golden Rule and to “love thy neighbour as thyself.”

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 204-227-0292. E-mail: mscott.ici@gmail.com.

DR. SYNJYN...

From page 1 dentist, Dr. Synjyn completed his D.M.D at the University of Manitoba Faculty of Dentistry in 2022. He decided to continue his education in the U.S. and pursued Advanced Education in General Dentistry and completed the certificate program at the University of Connecticut in 2023.

While at the University of Connecticut, Dr. Synjyn practiced in all areas of dentistry including implant surgeries, surgical extractions, and esthetic dentistry.

“I believe that one of the most important aspects of dentistry is building a good rapport with patients to ensure that they are comfortable in the chair and with their oral health after any appointment.”

He says his focus is on educating patients and having complete transparency with them to make sure everyone is on the same page. As well, he hopes to alleviate any anxiety that being in the dental chair may cause.

Outside of East Kildonan Dental Group, Dr. Synjyn is a part-time clinical instructor at the University of Manitoba in the restorative department. His interests include expanding his dental skills and

knowledge, and to build on his skill set to appropriately provide for his patients.

In his personal time, Dr.

Synjyn enjoys boxing and exercise, travelling, Winnipeg’s amazing food, and spending time with his friends and family. He is

also fluent in English, French, and has a foundation in Tagalog. For your oral health needs and concerns, talk to Dr. Synjyn. Visit

East Kildonan Dental Group, 807 Henderson Highway or call 204661-2614.

By Lucille Nolasco-Garrido

Four young Winnipeggers to compete in Canada Galaxy Pageants

Four young Winnipeggers are vying for various crowns in the Annual Canada Galaxy Pageants taking place from October 12 to 15 in Toronto. The pageant night will be held at the Meridian Art Centre, Lyric Theatre. This year marks the fifth anniversary of Canada Galaxy Pageants under the National Directorship of Sindy Withans.

Canada Galaxy Pageants aims to empower girls and women to be the best versions of themselves. The pageant programs are open to girls and women aged 6 and upwards. There are no restrictions on age, size, height, marital status, or motherhood.

Seven winners of the Canada Galaxy Pageants will travel to represent Canada and compete in the Galaxy International Pageant in August 2024.

The divisions are Little Miss Galaxy Canada (6-8 years old), Miss Pre-Teen Galaxy Canada (911 years old), Junior Miss Galaxy Canada (12-14 years old), Miss Teen Galaxy Canada (15-18 years old), Miss Galaxy Canada (19-27 years old), Ms Galaxy Canada (ages: 28 +), and Mrs Galaxy Canada (ages: 19+ and legally married).

Four young Filipino Canadians from Winnipeg are competing.

Katrina Czarina Salazar

Miss Teen Galaxy Winnipeg

Katrina Czarina, 17, started her pageant career in 2016 when she was crowned as the first Second Princess of the Manitoba Filipino Street Festival Queen Bulilit 2016. In 2019, she won the title of Canada Galaxy Pageants’ first Junior Miss Galaxy 2019 and finished as one of the Top

8 semi-finalists in the Galaxy International Pageants 2019 held in Orlando, Florida. This year, she returns to Canada Galaxy, representing Winnipeg in the teen division.

Katrina is entering her final year in high school. She hopes to enhance her passion for neuroscience and psychology, two fields Katrina is looking to take after graduation. In her early years, Katrina received various academic and non-academic awards such as scholarships from the Winnipeg Foundation, CanU Leadership Awards, and notably, she was one of the youngest recipients of an MLA Member Statement presented by MLA Bernadette Smith of Point Douglas at the Manitoba Legislature in 2019.

Myrielle Aco

Miss Pre-Teen Galaxy Winnipeg

Myrielle was born in Winnipeg and raised by her Filipino parents who immigrated in 2010. She is the youngest among three and even with a big age gap, she is very close to her two older sisters (21 and 24 years old). Myrielle is trained in dance, vocals, piano and drums. She’s an outgoing person who loves drawing, playing with her dog Teddy and volunteering at Winnipeg Harvest. Myrielle wants to help prevent kidney disease by supporting the Kidney March. She is excited to be a part of her second Miss Pre-Teen Galaxy pageant.

She won Best in Talent at the Queen Bulilit 2022 and was the Second Princess Bulilit 2022.

Myrielle won the All Canadian Pageant in Regina, Saskatchewan and Calgary. She won the Jr. Pageant Couture and Audience

Choice Awards at the Miss PreTeen Canada Galaxy Pageant 2022.

Janiyah Estrella

Miss Pre-Teen Galaxy Gimli

Janiya is an exceptionally talented eight-year-old Filipino prodigy. She triumphed in the esteemed 2023 Queen Bulilit pageant. Currently, she proudly represents Miss Pre-teen Galaxy of Gimli, showcasing her immense talent.

Janiya has a vibrant personality that matches her colourful hobbies. Dancing, singing, drawing, painting, and creating crafts fill her days with endless joy and creativity. Joining the pageant was a decision driven by her desire to inspire other children her age. With the passion she has for performing arts, Janiyah hopes to showcase her talent and encourage young individuals to pursue their own passions. She believes that by sharing her journey, she can inspire the youth to embrace their uniqueness and discover the joy that comes from pursuing their dreams.

Lesceia Fajardo

Little Miss Galaxy Winnipeg

Ceia is a talented and inspiring seven-year-old Filipino Canadian with a positive outlook on life. She attributes her opportunistic outlook to her upbringing, immersed in the arts, sports and pageantry. Lesceia is a powerhouse of talent and determination. She won Queen Bulilit First Princess 2022 in the Manitoba Filipino Street Festival. She firmly believes that showcasing her talent will help young girls to feel inspired to conquer their goals by owning

who they are. True to her school awards, she’s the epitome of love for her community, because behind her golden dreams of glitz and glamour lies a heart that seeks to help and reach out for other hands. She will be competing in this year’s Little Miss Galaxy representing Winnipeg in Toronto this month.

These young candidates

will do their best to bring home the crowns and represent our community in the upcoming Galaxy International Pageants in 2024. The areas of competition they are vying are Photogenic, the Interview, Fashion Wear, Evening Gown, and Appearances. Support the four young Winnipeggers in the Canada Galaxy Pageants 2023.

Katrina Czarina Salazar Myrielle Aco

Janiyah Estrella Lesceia Fajardo

KC Concepcion’s Asian Persuasion wins award at SOHO film fest

KC Concepcion is overjoyed after her debut Hollywood movie received an award at the SOHO International Film Festival.

On Instagram, Concepción announced to her followers that their movie Asian Persuasion won the Audience Choice Award.

“Out of over 100 film entries at the @sohofilmfest, Asian Persuasion won the Audience Choice Award for full-length feature! Ang saya,” she wrote.

Concepcion then proceeded to congratulate their director, three-time Tony Award winning producer Jhett Tolentino, and the film’s entire production.

Asian Persuasion follows the story of a down-on-his-luck chef, Mickey de Los Santos (Dante Basco), who cooks up a crazy scheme to marry off his ex-wife, Avery Chua (Concepcion), by setting her up with a fake internet dating profile in an attempt to find

her a suitor to re-marry in order to avoid his substantial alimony obligations.

With the help of his trusted wingman, Mickey gets off to a hot start until he realizes he wants a second chance with Avery. He, however, might be too late.

Asian Persuasion was shot

cast

Pia Wurtzbach turns 34

Pia Wurtzbach took to Instagram to express her gratitude as she turned 34.

Along with a picture of her looking adorable as she prepared to make a wish on her birthday cake, the beauty queen thanked those who have been there for her.

“A big thank you for being by my side, watching me grow through the years — some of you have literally seen and supported me since day 1 to now that I’m married. As I navigate this new era of my life, I am grateful for all of you for still being here,” she said.

Pia added that although she is “not in my usual celebratory mode just yet,” and that she is focused on Milan Fashion Week,

See ASIAN p14

KC Concepcion

See PIA p9

The

of Asian Persuasion Jhett Tolentino & producer Michael Ang

Jeremy Jauncey & Pia Wurtzbach

PIA...

From page 8

she saw all the birthday posts, tags, and greetings.

“Cheers to getting wiser, stronger & better. Cheers to continuing the dream,” Pia said. “Now…let’s get back to business.”

Pia was named Miss Universe in 2015. This September, her first book, Queen of the Universe was released, and she had a book signing event at the Manila International Book Fair.

She also received the sweetest birthday greeting from her husband Jeremy Jauncey, who said, “I love you and I’m proud of you. I have no doubt this year will be even bigger.”

The couple got married last March at the private North Island in Seychelles.

—Nika Roque/JCB, GMA Integrated News/ Photo: Pia Wurtzbach/IG

Pia Wurtzbach

Dennis and Bea star in Love Before Sunrise

Two of the country’s biggest and brightest stars — Bea Alonzo and Dennis Trillo — come together in an extraordinary story about lost love and missed chances in Love Before Sunrise

This marks the reunion of Bea and Dennis. Joining them are Sparkle leading lady Andrea Torres and award-winning actor Sid Lucero

Love Before Sunrise tells the story of ex-lovers, Atom (Dennis) and Stella (Bea). They separated after realizing they had found the right love at the wrong time.

Years later, their paths cross again, and they regret losing each other after both ended up in unhappy marriages. Things become more complicated as they give in to their rekindled feelings and choose to continue their love at a forbidden time.

Adding more colour to the story are Sparkle stars: Sef Cadayona, Rodjun Cruz, Vaness del Moral, Vince Maristela, and Cheska Fausto

The Love Before Sunrise cast also includes Tetchie Agbayani, Ricky Davao, Isay Alvarez, Nadia Montenegro, and Matet de Leon

The series is directed by Mark Sicat Dela Cruz, together with Associate Director Carlo Cannu

Don’t miss Love Before Sunrise on GMA Pinoy TV.

Family Feud returns to GMA

The season break is over! GMA Network’s top-rating game show, Family Feud, is back with more exciting surprises.

Award-winning host and Kapuso Dingdong Dantes shared how much they missed the program, “We aired for more than a year before the break and finally, we’re back kaya sobrang high morale at high spirits lahat ng tao..kahit saan ako pumunta pinapaalala ng mga tao sa akin kung kailan daw babalik. It only proves one thing – na hinahanaphanap talaga siya.”

Dingdong also revealed that the show makes him step out of his comfort zone, “Generally, tahimik akong tao pero kapag Family Feud stage ako, ito iyong space ko na maging maingay at magulo. It’s also very therapeutic for me kasi in a way, hosting is also a performance.”

Aside from his dynamic interaction with the players and the audience, Dingdong highlighted his favourite aspect of the show, “Kaya siya special because we really give value

See FAMILY p14

Jacey Laurente christening, September 10, 2023

Bea Alonzo

Dennis Trillo

Andrea Torres Sid Lucero

Dingdong Dantes

Welcome to the Christian world, Jacey

Jacey’s dad Reyniel, mom Jhona, and brother Raiven

Jacey’s family, ninong, ninang, and friends

L-r: Ninong Richard, Jacey, Reyniel, and Ninong Issi

PBA Winnipeg in Detroit tournament

The Philippine Basketball Association WPG Inc. was well represented in Detroit for the Filipino Basketball Association of North America’s Labour Day Basketball Tournament.

Six teams represented Winnipeg with five making it to the championship.

Winnipeg’s Men’s Open Division prevailed against their number one rival Toronto in a tough battle. The MVP honours were shared by Jonar Huertas and Joseph Medrano. The whole crew played superbly, including JC Aaron, Tre Morcilla, Randel Viray, Kniel Sullera, Vince Munoz, and Harold Memita.

Winnipeg’s Senior Division, led by MetroBaller Carl Eusebio, surprised many. They won all their games thanks to the veteran players who handled the ball skilfully in a close fight. Pol Limpahan and Rob Adelantar were both named MVP.

Winnipeg’s Ladies Open Division almost won it all but ran out of time. Sisters Paige and Julia Schatkowsky, the “Twin Towers,” played a tough game making up for the loss of Aina Ramos due to a knee injury. Coach Arsenio dela Cruz did a wonderful job despite being short on players.

Winnipeg’s defending

champions, Grandmaster, lost to the younger and much bigger Toronto team. Ronald Coching battled admirably through the big Toronto players and kept it close only to meet defeat in the end. Coach and manager Romy Muñoz promised to get the trophy back again.

The 2006/2007 Boys team fought until the last buzzer. With Robin dela Cruz injured and outsized by the bigger Chicago team, they kept the game close. The “import” players made it tough for the Winnipeg team, which chose to go with an allFilipino line up. The league thanks Coach Arsenio and Marie dela Cruz for all their hard work.

After maintaining a 3-0 record, Winnipeg’s Six-foot and Under Division lost their semifinal game against the home team, Detroit. Home court was a clear advantage with Detroit Fans filling the venue, but every team member played well. The team thanks the coaching staff of Wendel Mozo and the Boyz.

PBA Winnipeg thanks all the volunteers, coaches, and players who represented the city of Winnipeg – especially their major sponsor Romy Munoz of Munoz Silk Screen Printing and manager Riz Mapue. – PE

I’ve written several times in my column over the years on the history of immigration and immigration policy in Canada. In this narrative, 1967 is an important year as it marks the implementation of Canada’s modern system that awards points to applicants based on criteria such as language spoken, education, and years of work experience – attributes that ensure a potential immigrant will be a productive member in Canadian society. While there is a logic to this, such as Canada having the sovereign right to expect newcomers to contribute to the success of the country, there is also an element that reveals how connected Canada’s immigration policy is to the needs of its industrialist, capitalist economy.

In some regions of Canada, including Manitoba and the Maritime provinces, population size would gradually decrease were it not for immigration. Whether because of low birth rates or outmigration to other provinces, places like Manitoba cannot maintain a positive growth rate without high immigration numbers. Even Winnipeg, which is aiming to reach one million residents in the coming years, cannot do this without immigration.

Likewise, countless times in Canada’s history immigration has served the needs of various industries. Along British Columbia’s Pacific Coast, fisheries, canneries, and lumber industries would have collapsed in the second half of the 19th

Understanding Canadian immigration history

century were it not for migrant Asian workers (including some Filipinos) moving from the United States. When the Canadian prairies were being opened for agriculture, it was waves of Eastern European settlers who worked the new farmlands. In Winnipeg, both the healthcare system in the 1960s and garment industry from the 1960s to1980s were maintained because of targeted Filipino immigration. Historically, Canada has struggled to produce enough population to maintain growing industries and has relied on immigration streams to provide sources of labour.

In many of those cases, exceptions and changes had to be made to the immigration system to allow what were then new ethnic groups into Canada. Today, this country has a reputation for being open to people of all ethnicities and faiths, but it is important to recognize how hard fought that reality was achieved.

From 1885 until 1967, Asian immigration was increasingly restricted until it was eventually made illegal unless the individual was the child of Canadian parents (seeing as Asian immigration was already restricted, though, this option was nearly impossible). This meant that the first waves of Filipino healthcare workers to Winnipeg had to be admitted on an ad hoc basis with each individual applicant receiving ministerial approval. While prior to 1959, when the first Filipino doctor arrived in Winnipeg, there was a lot of resistance to allowing Filipino immigrants into Canada

based upon the xenophobic fear of what Asian immigration would do to society. However, the need of Canada’s health care was so great that exceptions were made. And, as Canadians quickly found out, society did not fall apart but was made stronger.

By the time that Winnipeg garment companies began recruiting Filipino workers directly from Manila in 1968, Canada’s so-called Points System had removed any consideration of racial concerns – on the outside, at least. In inter-government communications on the influx of Filipinos, there remained significant concern amongst government officials about how many were coming in within a short period of time. It was not an altruistic belief in a postracial Canada that allowed the recruitment of Filipino garment workers to continue, but rather the demands of the garment industry.

While the policy changes of 1967 came under Prime Minister Pierre Elliot Trudeau, it was not because of his humanitarianism; in fact, it was more the work of Helen Fairclough who had been the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration in 1962 when she introduced the first policies that would lead to the changes in 1967, and she herself had been responding to years of growing protests from Canadian citizens.

In addition to the pressures applied by industry and commercial interests, citizen rights groups had also been petitioning government to pull back their racially motivated restrictions on immigration. These groups included the Committee for the

Repeal of the Chinese Immigration Act, composed of Chinese and non-Chinese members, which petitioned for the repeal of the act preventing Chinese immigration in 1946.

Without a doubt, the Filipino community in Canada, as with other ethnic communities, owe their presence in Canada to the changes that occurred in 1967. But these changes were long and hard fought for by both Canadian citizens and those who were affected by the policies. Following the Second World War, there was a shift in popular opinion towards the immigration of previously banned ethnic groups into Canada, largely in response to the horrors experienced by various minorities. But in Canada, there had long been criticisms of the country’s racist policies, which only grew in volume following the end of the Second World War.

These growing voices from citizens groups merged with labour demands. The pressure applied by industry groups to allow the entry of so-called non-traditional immigrants (those previously barred from immigrating) was further driven by economic need rather than a sense of humanitarianism. Percy Bengough, who represented the Trade and Labour Congress, testified to the Senate Standing Committee on Immigration and Labour (1946-1952) that “there are citizens of other countries who may be good brothers and sisters, internationally, but would not be acceptable as brothers and sisters-in-law to Canadians.”

Furthermore, when hospitals began to advocate for granting Filipino

healthcare workers permanent residence in Canada so they could work, administrators often noted how similar Filipinos were to Canadians: they spoke English well, had attended universities and colleges that used North American curricula, and, thanks to years of colonization, shared Western values and religion. In other words, the fear of Asian immigrants changing Canadian society was less of a danger.

It took Canadian society a long time to realize that there is strength and vitality in difference. The racist and xenophobic attempts to maintain a Canadian society that was British or European in composition became both unfashionable after the Second World War and unsustainable as Canada’s economy grew in that period. But, as I’ve stated, it was a long and hard-fought realization. Many suffered under Canada’s policies and racism, and the changes that came in 1967 were not due to the altruism or humanitarianism of a single government or government official. It took several governments many years to move very slowly toward this change, pushed on by demands from labour and capitalist forces, and increasing calls for social justice by Canadian citizens.

Jon Malek is an Assistant Professor of History at Providence University College. His research is on the history of the Philippines and the Filipino diaspora. His current writing projects include a book on the history of Filipinos in Canada and a project on Filipino food and culture.

Philippine government rallies Filipinos to curb illegal drugs

President Marcos has called on Filipinos to be part of the fight against illegal drugs, urging them to report drug-related activities and support rehabilitation efforts. He emphasised the need for a wholistic approach to ensure the country will be rid of the proliferation of illegal drugs through prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and law enforcement.

In the president’s message delivered by Health

Undersecretary Abdullah Dumama Jr. on September 28, the 4th Anniversary of the DOH-Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Center in San Francisco, Agusan del Sur, he stressed that drug dependence “is a serious mental health condition” that if untreated, becomes a growing social problem and a significant public health issue.” This drug treatment and rehabilitation center is considered the largest in CARAGA, an administrative region in the Philippines occupying the northeastern section of Mindanao.

The DOH-Drug Abuse

Treatment and Rehabilitation

Center, which is part of the antidrugs effort, continues to be a vital component of the program, according to President Marcos.

“Amidst the harsh realities of drug abuse, this treatment centre remains a sanctuary, where individuals can find healing, compassion, and recovery,” he said.

“In our pursuit of helping individuals rebuild their lives, we need a supportive environment, like what we have here, to facilitate our patients’ transformation… I call on every Filipino to be part of our fight against illegal drugs. Be vigilant, report drug-related activities, and support rehabilitation efforts,” he said.

He recognized that the lack of access to treatment for substance abuse results in chronic illnesses and other adverse social effects in the community. Thus, he is pushing for a wholistic approach to address the country’s lingering drug problem.

The President noted that these strategies to address the problem

also entail cooperation between the government and the private sector.

Another rehab facility is now being completed, the Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Center (DATRC) in Trece Martires, Cavite.

Since he assumed the presidency, unlike his predecessor, Marcos avowed that the fight against illegal drugs in the country under his term will continue but through a “new face” focusing on communitybased treatment, rehabilitation, education, and reintegration.

Sources: PNA, Manila Bulletin

No, it’s not a typo. You read that right – 186 job applications –that’s the number it took for Ray Sator, Senior Traffic Engineering Specialist with MTS and former Filipino Members ChapterEngineers Geoscientists Manitoba (FMC) chair, to finally land an engineering job.

If you are at the lowest point in your job search, discouraged, disappointed, and just about to give up – think again. Things with Ray may have been a lot worse. I hope that by reading his story, it may bring inspiration and motivation for your future career plans.

Ray was born and raised in Tagum, a small northern coastal town of Davao Del Norte, along with four other siblings. He went to a public elementary school in Tagum but moved to Manila when his father had to work there. That move led him to Don Bosco Technical College in Mandaluyong, where he graduated high school and completed his bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Communications Engineering.

Before immigrating to Canada, Ray had a thriving career where he was employed at one of the largest telecommunications companies as a project manager handling wireless in-building solutions and outdoor special projects.

He moved to Canada in 2010 to be with his girlfriend at the time (now his wife), who immigrated the year before. His first couple of months were full of challenges.

“I did not have any relatives here to support and guide me. It took me four months to find a survival job,” he recalled. “I didn’t have any plans to practice engineering in Canada. My expectations were very low. I was already content even if I would just be flipping burgers.” That mindset changed very quickly when he realized there were opportunities to get back to engineering. “With a stroke of luck, I crossed paths with the late Mar Mance. He was the one who encouraged me to go back to the engineering profession. He introduced me to more people where I could get firsthand information on how to get my engineering credentials recognized. I also went to the Entry Program and Success Skills to get more information and expand my network.”

Ray was in the same cohort as me in the Internationally Educated Engineers Qualification (IEEQ) program at the University of Manitoba. The program, upon completion, was one of the many pathways to be eligible for registration with Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba as an engineer-in-training (EIT).

When asked to describe his journey and experiences leading up to his successful job offer after a hundred job applications, he says, “One of the advantages in the

IEEQ program is the support in job applications, such a resume and interview preparations. However, my journey to landing a co-op placement was very challenging and became depressing. My co-op job application was very methodical and focused. I followed the recommendations of my counsellors in the IEEQ program and the University of Manitoba. I had a spreadsheet tracker of the jobs I applied for complete with contact details, name of the hiring manager and HR managers, date of application, date of follow up. My search for co-op became my first job while completing my IEEQ courses. When I hit 132 applications, with no positive result, I became depressed and began to question my abilities. I went and sought advice from our IEEQ director, counsellors, professors, former IEEQ students, a Success Skills counsellor, a Service Canada counsellor and literally spoke to whomever I knew at that time who had experience and background in getting an engineering job.”

Ray was beginning to lose self-confidence but the one thing that kept him going was a promise made to his wife – to complete the IEEQ program. But without a co-op placement, he would not graduate from the program and would not receive a post-baccalaureate diploma in engineering.

“I was becoming desperate. I planned to move to Calgary where there would be more jobs available. A former colleague in the Philippines, now based in Calgary was willing to adopt me while I looked for work. She told me to relax and take it easy, she sensed that I had become very stiff and a “work focus person” during our practice interviews. She advised that I should include the more human side of me like how she used to see me build work relationships in the Philippines.”

Ray was two days shy of departing for Calgary, when he finally landed a co-op job in a leading telecommunication company in Winnipeg.

“Out of 186 applications, I only got six interviews – three in Winnipeg and three out of province. I had more mock interviews than actual interviews,” he recalled.

Ethel: Can you share a specific instance where you learned a valuable lesson from an unsuccessful interview?

Ray: I learned from one of my interviewers that I was overqualified and that was the reason why I was not fit for the job that I applied for. I didn’t know that being overqualified is a thing in a Canada, especially when the country is built with immigrants. The next interview, when the job I was applying for was entry level, I had to downplay my experience

Finding success after 186 job applications

and skills to match and not exceed their requirements.

Ethel: What strategies or techniques did you find most effective for standing out to employers during the interview process?

Ray: The technique that worked for me was to not show I was nervous because when you are, the interviewer becomes uneasy as well. The interviewer will focus more on your physical reactions and not on your answers. I learned that I must make the interviewers comfortable and that my interview is not a task for them to complete, but rather a place to get to know each other. I came prepared with lots of questions about the job, about the company culture, how they see me fitting in the company, long term plans and, in some degree, how they plan for retirement etc. I don’t ask about compensation, until I get an offer. In one of my successful interviews, the hiring manager said, “Ray, you’re a good man and I believe you will fit right in. We will contact you after we’re done with our interviews.” Right there and then, I knew that we had already built a relationship regardless of whether I got the job or not. The HR manager called and offered me the job 30 minutes after the interview.

Ethel: How did you manage the emotional and psychological challenges of facing rejection repeatedly?

Ray: My job hunting was becoming depressing, seeing all my classmates getting jobs and I was the only one in my cohort who couldn’t get one. I focused on the other aspect of my life that give me happiness, such as getting fit and knowing more about my environment. I took transit buses and got myself familiarized with what the city can offer. I did not stop learning, I enrolled on AutoCAD drawing, technical writing, an English program, financial literacy, and volunteered to help other immigrants.

Ethel: Were there any key networking or professional connections that played a significant role in your job search?

Ray: I did find help and support from the Internationally Educated Engineers Qualification (IEEQ) Program and Success Skills Centre in tweaking my resume, mock interviews, and exposure to additional training to improve technical skills. The Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Manitoba staff were very eager to provide me help in searching the web for available jobs in Manitoba. The Filipino Members Chapter-Engineers and Geoscientists of Manitoba (FMC-EGM) greatly improved my network and connections to hidden job markets and provided me an opportunity to volunteer so I didn’t get idle. Most important, my classmates, professors, and counsellors in the IEEQ Program

IEEQ 9th Cohort

at the University of Manitoba provided great moral support and encouragement to keep going.

Ethel: What was the greatest challenge you faced with your job search?

Ray: That I could not even land an interview. Imagine when I followed up with a hiring manager or HR contact for my application and being told that I did not qualify for an interview. It was devastating but during those times I would compose myself, talk to mentors, classmates, and counsellors to review my strategy and plan for actionable tasks that would yield results. In my case, I began to accept that it is a numbers game; the more applications, the more chances for an interview. The more participation in professional and social events, the more I gain connections, even friends.

Ethel: Reflecting on your experience, what would you say were the most valuable skills or qualities that ultimately led to your successful job placement?

Ray: My flexibility and adaptability. I was willing to be a great team player and start on

Ray receives his Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) Certificate with wife, Rowena.

something that I can build a career on.

Ethel: What advice do you have for individuals who are currently facing difficulties in securing a job offer?

Ray: It is a numbers game. Your job preference may not be available for you, but your transferrable skills will match plenty of jobs you never imagined. Be open minded, flexible, and determined.

Ethel: Your message to FMC officers and members?

Ray: Remember that we are all sitting on giant’s shoulders. The members and officers before us opened and paved the way to make it easier for us Filipino engineers get recognized in Manitoba. Our challenges have been reduced to more a manageable and even exciting journey.

Ethel Clemente-Fernandez is a professional engineer registered in the province of Manitoba. She is an active member of the Filipino Members ChapterAssociation of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Manitoba (FMC-APEGM).

Iron Ring ceremony with IEEQ batchmates

PB Diploma in Engineering (University of Manitoba)

Ray receives his PB Diploma in Engineering (University of Manitoba)

KROSWORD

NO. 426

Ni Bro. Gerry Gamurot

ASIAN...

From page 8 entirely in New York City in 2022, celebrating some of its most iconic landmarks and highlighting some of its lesser known, less frequented cultural enclaves.

Aside from Concepcion and Basco, the movie features Kebin Krieder and Paolo Montalban

After its world premiere at the SOHO International Film Festival in New York City, it will be theatrically released in the Philippines nationwide on November 29.

–ABS CBN News

FAMILY...

From page 10

sa charity component. Kung bibilangin natin iyong P20,000 a

11. Taba ng alimango

15. Pinggan

SAGOT SA NO. 425

day na nado-donate ng winning groups sa foundations, talagang isang mahalagang aspeto iyon ng buong program. That’s why every episode is unforgettable for me.”

Family Feud will now feature special episodes with kids as contestants—a first in the history of the world’s favourite family competition.

Moreover, the new season gives viewers the chance to become studio contestants. There will be episodes where teams of Filipino workers and professionals compete for a chance to win the coveted cash prize. Stay tuned as the audition mechanics will be released soon.

Even the studio audience will have a chance to answer survey questions for fun in their interaction with Dingdong.

Catch the new season of Family Feud on GMA PINOY TV.