Jeepney Press #121 January - February 2023

Pahayagang pinoy sa japan ジープニー プレス

JEEPNEY PRESS welcomes articles of interest on Filipinos in Japan. Please email any photos, drawings, and other materials that you would like to accompany the article. Submissions can also be sent by postmail. Photos, drawings and other materials will not be retur ned unless sent with a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Deadline is one month before publication. We reserve the right to edit or omit any submissions.

Disclaimer: Jeepney Press is not responsible for the transactions between its advertisers and their clients. Publisher does not endorse or make any representation or warranty, express or implied, with respect to any of the products or services advertised herein. We recommend that you independently evaluate all products/services before purchasing.

Jeepney Press is not accountable for any claims on the articles in this magazine. They are purely the writer's idea and opinion. The views expressed herein are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers'. Public and private parties approached by those claiming to work for or on behalf of Jeepney Press should call our office to confir m truth of any such claim, especially where money may be involved.

Jeepney Press is published online bimonthly by Asia Vox Ltd.

All rights reserved. Copyright 2022

publisher

ASIA VOX LTD.

IRENE SUN-KANEKO

editorial & creative director

DENNIS SUN

Editorial Board

Contributors

Glen Atienza

Je Plantilla

Neriza Saito

Karen Sanchez

Anita Sasaki

Wayne Sun

Warren Sun

Yellowbelle Duaqui

Loleng Ramos

Alvin Tagle

Alma Reyes

Lita Manalastas-Watanabe

Richine Bermudez

Lala Lopez de Leon

Mae Grace

Jerry Sun Arenas

Jasmin Vasquez

Alma Fatagani-Sato

Arnel Sugay

Marnie Chan

Chris Yokoyama

Geraldine Limpo

Joey Manalang

Dennis Fernandez

Liza Barte

Cover design and art: DENNIS SUN

ATTENTION:

All alumni of the UP School of Economics now living/working in Japan. Would you like to be part of our community viber (called Pusong UPSE Community Viber) and connect with UPSE alumni all over the world? Please check out below link and register.

PUSONG UPSE Membership Form link.

Patuloy ang pagtibok ng Pusong UPSE https://bit.ly/PusongUPSEmember

by Dennis Sun editorial

Wow! Has it been that long already? 20 years. 2 decades.

The year was 2003. It was the year when the towering Roppongi Hills opened in Tokyo; the year when the PCCC (Philippine Coordinating Council), an umbrella organization of Filipino groups in the Kansai area was formed; the year when the monorail in Okinawa was launched; and in the world, it was the year when Saddam Hussein was captured, thus ending the Iraq-Kuwait war in the Middle East. And, it was the cold winter of this year that Jeepney Press was born.

Starting as a 12-page print publication with a circulation of 5,000 copies distributed mostly in Tokyo and the major cities of Japan where there is a big population of Filipinos, Jeepney Press demonstrated itself to be unique among the other Filipino publications during that time. There were no news about politics, and no gossips about your favorite showbiz personalities. We put more weight on content and substance rather than commercial advertising.

Published once every two months, Jeepney Press is a non-pro t and non-commercial publication run by a sta of volunteers (doctors, professors, engineers, directors, social workers, artists, musicians, journalists, etc) working towards making a uni ed diverse and responsible Filipino society in Japan by promoting community involvement to issues concerning Filipinos in

Japan. Jeepney Press encourages constructive, positive, educational and inspirational dialogues among Filipinos. It ventures to share knowledge and resources, strengthen existing relations and forge new ones with various Filipino communities all around Japan.

Now, after more than 200 issues and 20 years, after being transformed into the digital format, and while still being true to our original vision, we have stretched further our reach into the global audience, sharing to those outside of Japan on how we celebrate the journeys of Filipinos here.

Every year is always a new year and we just continue to move on. Move forward. It has been a tough journey but every year is always a time to learn new things and grow. And so, the journey moves on. Tuloy ang pasada!

The rst issue cover design in 2003

“Sometimes your only available transportation is a leap of faith.”

~ Margaret Shepard

by Joey Manalang

The Elusive Mt. Fuji

During the New Year holidays, I was itching to go somewhere out of town. So I browsed some interesting places on AirBnb on my iPad and decided to book a place near the Kawaguchiko Station in Yamanashi-ken. I found one that was quite reasonable, only 9,000 yen per night so I booked it for 5 days and 4 nights.

Day 1

Packed my stu , left home, and took the train to Shinjuku Busta (Bus Terminal) just across the street from the South Exit of the Shinjuku Station. The ticket cost only 2,000 yen. Left Shinjuku at 2:15 pm and arrived at 4 pm. Walked for about 3 minutes and checked-in at the AirBnb. The place was small but quite comfortable and I could see the foot of Mt. Fuji from the window. Got settled

and went to the convenience store to get some snacks. By 8 pm everything was dark. It was minus 4 degrees Celsius outside and for some reason, I couldn’t sleep so I decided to go and take pictures of Mt. Fuji around midnight. The streets were practically empty as I quietly setup my tripod and took pictures while cars came zooming by with Mt. Fuji lit up by the moon and the stars in the background. It was beautiful.

Day 2

The next day, I went to a couple of rent-a-cars, unfortunately all fully booked, so I rented a bicycle instead to get around. It cost 1,500 yen per day for the regular bike,

but they were all taken, so I had no choice but to rent the electric bicycle which cost a thousand yen more. Oh well, it turned out to be the better choice because there were plenty of uphill slopes along the route to the Kawaguchiko Lake. I crossed the bridge to get to the other side of the lake. Wow, it was freezing cold to ride a bicycle in winter, but it was worth it to see Mt. Fuji towering over the lake. I have been in Japan for more than 3 decades and for some reason, every time I go on a trip to see Mt. Fuji, it’s always been hiding behind thick clouds. But this time was totally di erent. In 5 days, there was only one cloudy day, and 4 days of perfectly clear skies! While riding the bicycle around the lake, I was surprised to see an old and rusty Japanese ghter plane from World War 2 sitting in the middle of an empty eld next to someone’s house. It was such a bizarre sight, so I took plenty of photos as it was de nitely the highlight of the day. On the way back to the AirBnb, I stopped by a co ee shop to have some cheesecake and co ee.

Day 3

On the 3rd day, Mt. Fuji was covered with clouds for most of the day except when I went out in the early morning. Around noon, I had lunch in a ramen restaurant and made friends with the lone 82-year-old man who runs the place. It was interesting that he was quite familiar with Philippine politics, and he told me he was so disappointed that Manny Pacquiao didn’t win to become President in last year’s elections. We had a good laugh for a

couple of hours just lazily chatting as we exchanged views on how come there are poor countries and rich countries. He said people from tropical countries tend to be lazy compared to people who live in countries with four seasons. In a way, he’s probably right.

Day 4

On the 4th day, I could nally rent a car by making reservations online and picked it up the night before. Spent the whole day driving around the Yamanakako Lake. It would have been impossible to get there by bicycle. It was amazing to take pictures of Mt. Fuji with its clear re ection on the lake. Also enjoyed visiting an old Japanese village called Saiko Iyashi-No-Sato. After that, I enjoyed another breathtaking view of Mt Fuji from the hot springs called Fuji Yurari Onsen.

Day 5

Took it easy on the 5th day after checking out of the AirBnb. It was a slow and relaxing day, enjoyed some carbonara pasta while viewing the lake. Spent most of the day just bird watching. In one of the photos I took of Mt. Fuji on this trip, I saw this zigzag trail that leads up to the summit. I told myself I want to climb that trail one of these days. Maybe this summer.

The Long Journey with Jeepney Press

Congratulations to Jeepney Press’ 20th Anniversary!

It has been quite a full 17-year journey writing for Jeepney Press. It all started in 2005 with a good friend, Tony Fernandez’s book review of an architecture book, “Mini House Style” I had co-published with an editorial office I was working for at that time. JP was still being printed and distributed by post. I remember often being excited to pick up that 10-copy bulk of printed journals in my mailbox. Naturally, at some point, JP had to cope with the digital era; thus, printed copies saw their goodbye and turned to online media.

the Philippines, fashion designer Feanne, Professor Ambeth Ocampo, One Hundred Homes for Barangay Inangatan

by Alma Reyes

TRAFFIC

The years have been an extensive learning experience, searching into bits and pieces of Japanese culture, customs, festivals and events to feed foreign readers in Japan about routinary life in this country. I also had gracious opportunities to interview notable people, like designers, artists, musicians, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and authors to feature them in the newspaper. Thank you to the

Movement 8 Designers of

volunteer group from Ateneo de Manila, Gerry Baron of Magdalena’s Cacao Bean Chocolates, psychologist Lissy Ann Puno, Kentaro Inada, Boy Katindig and Stephen Bishop.

JP also inspired me to explore Japan’s beautiful cities, parks and gardens, which I enjoyed photographing and sharing to the readers. I congratulate Dennis Sun for his continued dedication in keeping the newspaper alive and strengthening the spirit of Filipino camaraderie in Japan. I hope that many readers will view Jeepney Press not just as a literary medium, but also a supportive hub in bringing Japanese, Filipinos and other foreigners together as part of a special community. Thank you for allowing me to contribute to this endeavor.

More Power and All the Best for 2023!

© Alma Reyes

Nanohana is a plant that has a very long history in Japan and is commonly used in Japanese cuisine.

The young shoots of the rapeseed plant (Brassica napus), is referred to as “nanohana”. The mature plant, which is used to produce rapeseed oil, is called “aburana”. Rapeseed oil is one of the oils used for lighting during the Edo Period (1603 – 1867).

Rapeseed plants are in season from January to April. However, the owers start to bloom around February which looks very beautiful in their golden-yellow color.

By: Alma Fatagani-Sato

Nanohana (Rapeseed plant)

broccoli.

The owers, stems, and leaves are commonly boiled and served with dashi (stock made from sh and kelp) and katsuobushi (bonito akes). Aside from boiling, there are other ways to cook the rapeseed plant. You can also try stir-frying, deep frying (as in tempura) or just blanch them and add some salt or soy sauce. The shoots may also be pickled or served as a salad with mustard.

Rapeseed blossoms are known to be rich in vitamins and minerals such as carotene, vitamins B1, B2 and C, calcium and iron. During spring, there are celebrations called Nanohana Matsuri in Japan. Some images of these festivals are even used as a motif for the obi used in wearing kimono.

places in your condominium, house or apartment. They’re practically everywhere from end of January until April.

But just in case you are interested to see big nanohana elds, you can take the Kominato Railway or Isumi Railway line from Goi to Ohara in Chiba around Tokyo, which makes its way around the countryside through the gorgeous golden-yellow blossoms.

They can be harvested while still in buds. These buds usually have a dark green color and the appearance is similar to a young

All over Japan, there are numerous places where you can see the rapeseed blossom elds: public and national parks, nearby

Another place to see the rapeseed blossoms is near Shimbashi Station in Hamarikyu Gardens, Tokyo.

KUSINA

Easy and delicious, seasonal recipes ni Chris Yokoyama

Hello, mga kababayan!

The new year mood has nally gone. These days, you can feel the harsh winter season by the freezing coldness of the air blowing on your face. Wishing you all happiness and great health. We are looking forward to your continued support and encouragement.

Now, let's try this Japanese food Soboro-an Daikon (Braised White Radish with Chicken Mince). This is a simple dish but very tasty. It is considered to be a winter dish because white radish is a winter vegetable in Japan and the thick sauce keeps the dish warm for a longer period. But whenever daikon is available, I don’t mind having this any time of the year.

Ingredients:

1) 800g daikon cut into roll

2) 350g chicken mince (ground pork is ok, too)

3) 2 tsp oil

4) 3 cups water〔dashi powder〕

5) 50 ml soy sauce

6) 50 ml each of sake & mirin

7) 1 Tbsp sugar

8) 1 tsp heap of grated ginger〔optional〕

9) 1 Tbsp katakuriko〔potato starch〕diluted in 2 Tbsp water

Instructions:

1. In a boiling water (enough to cover daikon), place the daikon.

2. Boil for 3 minutes. Drain hot water, and run cold water to rinse quickly with cold water, and drain well.

3. In a simmering pan put no. 8 to no. 4 and bring to boil then add the pre-boiled daikon. Simmer for 15 minutes until the daikon is soft (when a bamboo skewer can get through the daikon easily).

4. Separate the simmered daikon and the broth.

5. Heat oil in a deep fry pan over medium heat, add chicken mince and fry, breaking the lumps. Cook until the meat changes color to pale brown.

6. Add the broth and #5, 6 & 7 and place a drop lid over to cover the surface.

7. When it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and cook for 10 minutes.

8. Remove the drop lid, add katakuriko with water and mix well.

9. When the sauce is thickened, turn the heat o and pour on top of the simmered daikon serve immediately with scallion on top.

Maligayang araw at manigong bagong taon mga kababayan. Nawa'y ang lahat ay nasa magandang

kalagayan at ligtas sa anumang

karamdaman. At dahil sa pagbabago ng taon at nahaharap na naman tayo sa panibagong hamon ng buhay ay nais ko pong ibahagi sa inyo noong ako'y "bagong salta" dito sa Japan at napasabak agad sa Hokkaido, ang isa sa pinakamalamig na parte ng bansa kung saan ako ay naluha sa galak dahil " rst time" kong nakakita ng snow at gabundok na yelo sa paligid na dati rati ay sa mga pelikula ko lang noon ito nakikita. At agad-agad ang pumasok sa isip ko noong

nahawakan ko ito ay ang

kilala natin at in-na-in kapag panahon ng tag-init sa atin - ang

halo-halo. Ngunit laking gulat ko nung medyo

natunaw naging parang bulak at nangingitim ang

Tara Na! Bagong Salta

mga ito at hindi talaga pwedeng gawing halo-halo.

Kilala ng ating mga kababayan maging sa Pinas ang Hokkaido kahit di pa sila nakapunta ng Japan dahil sa de lata. Ang hindi nila alam ay sobrang lamig kapag winter kung saan wala nang lumalabas na tubig sa gripo dahil nag yeyelo na ito at kinakailangan mo ng "built-in heater" para makagamit ng tubig. Kailangan mo din ng heater sa buong bahay dahil hindi ka makakagalaw o makakilos o makakagawa ng gawaing bahay sa sobrang lamig. Kinakailangan mo din ng nga warmers sa katawan or magdikit ng kairo sa iyong damit upang maibsan ang nararamdamang ginaw. At dahil taglamig masarap din kumain ng ramen at yakiniku at magbabad sa mga onsen o hot springs. Sa Hokkaido lang ako nakatikim ng Jingisukan (Genghis Khan) lamb or mutton yakiniku at sa Sapporo Beer Garden lamang; maliban doon ay wala na akong alam na naghahain ng ganoon. Maliban sa Yuki Matsuri o Snow Festival sa Suzukino,

kung ikaw ay Kristyano maganda ding mabisita ang

Kita Jo Church kung saan may Japanese at English Masses, may mababait na mga Pinoy na handang tumulong sa kapwa kababayan. Kung saan nabuo ang Samahan ng mga

Pilipino sa Hokkaido (SPH) na may layuning makatulong na mapalapit at para hindi na kinakailangang lumuwas ng mga kababayan natin sa

Tokyo o Osaka para sa mga papeles na ating

kinakailangan mula sa ating

Embahada. Sa simbahan din ay maaari silang magturo ng

Japanese Language na libre at doon po ako natuto ng

Basic Japanese o kaiwa at malapit din ito sa malawak na Odori Park. Sa panahon naman ng Sakura maganda ring dalawin ang Maruyama Park. At ang kilalang

Lavander Flower Field sa Furano kapag summer. Kung yung tipong pang cultural ang peg natin ay pwede

tayong pumunta sa Hakodate at i-enjoy ang fresh na fresh na Umi no sachi donburi or fresh seafoods bowl nila kung

saan sariwang-sariwa ang hotate o clams, ang ikura at ang kani or crab. Ganun din ang Otaru, na naghahain ng

steak at uminom ng

Otaru Black Beer at busugin ang ating mga mata sa maganda, malinis at kaaya-ayang paligid. Kung ikaw ay magiliw sa mga hayop ay maaari din po nating puntahan ang Asahiyama Zoo.

Bagong salta, hindi ko man inaasahang doon ako mapadpad ay naging makabuluhan at marami akong natutunan sa lugar ng Hokkaido. Doon ay maraming nabuong pangarap at pagkakaibigan na hanggang ngayon ay baon-baon ko saan man ako mapadpad. Di man ako naglagi ng mas

matagal doon sa ngayon ay malapit sa puso ko at siguradong babalik at babalik ako doon. Kagaya ng mga nasimulan o mga naudlot na pangarap ay tuloy-tuloy lang dapat ang ating buhay at bigyan halaga ang bawat oras na nasa ating mga kamay dahil sa mundong ito ay walang

permanente at kailan man ay hindi tayo dito mananatili.

Hanggang sa muli po.

Maligayang 2023 po sa

lahat!

Oras

ni Karen Sanchez

Sa bawat oras sa ating buhay na dumadaan

Mula sa araw na tayo ay namulat, isinilang

Mahalaga bawat minuto na ating

nalampasan

Mayroon tayo ngayong tinatawag na kasalukuyan

Na umaasa sa maganda nating kinabukasan

Bigyan halaga ang bawat oras na tayo ay pinagpapala

At laging magpasalamat sa ating Diyos Ama na Maylikha

Sa biyayang bawat oras na sa ati'y pinagkakaloob Niya

Di man natin minsan ito inaalintana at binigyang halaga

Ngunit habang tayo'y naririto, ito ay isang malaking biyaya

Biyayang hindi mabibili kahit ikaw na'y maraming pera

Buhay na malusog, masigla, masaya at mapayapa

Kasama ng iyong mga minamahal sa buhay na pinakamahalaga

Dahilan kung bakit ika'y nagsisikap at nagpapalakas pa

Pinaghahandaan bawat oras na sila'y muli ating makakasama

Makakasama at maramdaman ang pagmamahal ng tunay na pamilya

Na sa ating mga Pilipino sadyang ito ay hinahangaang kakaiba

Mula pa sa ating mga ninunong sa atin ay pinasa-pasa na

Ang pagpapahalaga sa kadugo at pagmamalasakit sa isa’t-isa

Na sa ibang lahi ay hindi minsan makikita bagkus sila ay humahanga

ni Jeff Plantilla ISANG ARAW SA ATING BUHAY

Meron na tayong bagong ritwal na dulot ng teknolohiya. Pag nasa restaurant, photo muna sa nakahain bago kumain. Minsan, photo muna bago prayer before meal.

Nguni’t gawain ko na yan nung wala pa ang smartphone o kahit cellphone na may camera. Photo muna bago inom.

Bago yan, may iba pa ako sasabihin.

Kailan lang sa isang supermarket ay nakita ko ang banana chips na mula sa Pilipinas – “Thins! Banana Slices.” Maganda ang packaging at may malinaw na tatak Pinoy. Ganyan dapat ang ating mga produkto.

Natuwa din ako sa isang canned drink na may pangalang “Sparkling Calamansi.” Mula sa

Korea. Nalaman ko bago mag-pandemic na nagiging popular ang kalamansi bilang juice o avor sa shake sa Seoul. Kaya siguro nagkaroon ng “Sparkling Calamansi.” Pero matagal na ring may “Calamansi Juicina” na gawa naman sa Japan.

Tungkol sa photo bago inom, isang produktong Pinoy ang aking hinahanap nung late 1980s pa. Ito ang San Miguel beer. Hinahanap ko ang SMB sa Indonesia, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Thailand at Nepal. Meron din sa Spain. Kaya ayan ang aking collection ng global SMB – gawa mismo sa mga bansang yan.

Ang katotohanan, maraming bagay ang nagkakapareho sa mga bansa dahil sa komersiyo. Halimbawa, dala ng mga negosyante ang ating mga produkto dito sa Japan mula 16th century o mas maaga pa.

Kaya sa ika-20 taon ng Jeepney Press mabuhay kayo at tagay!!!

MOVING ON

ni Jasmin Vasquez

Happy 20th year Jeepney Press

Year 2010 was when I rst joined Nagano Utawit singing contest. Nakilala ko si Ms Irene Kaneko and also Ms Editha Fujimaki. Sayang nga lang, 3rd place lang nakuha ko that time. They told me to join again after a year. And luckily I got the 1st place and then I started to meet people from di erent places. Lalo na nung mag grand nals na. Dati sa You Tube ko lang napanood. Parang feeling ko na para kaming mga artista na hehehe.

maglagay ng dialogue kung paano mo interpret yung drawing. Minsan naman sa mga joke nagbibigay din ako. Ito rin yung year na unang nalagay name at picture ko sa Jeepney Press hehehe.

Dati may hard copy pa ang Jeepney Press parang dyario meron nga akong mga naitabi pang ilang copies. Kasi palagi ako pinapadalhan para ikalat sa mga omise.

One day parang meron yatang umalis na isang writer so nag karoon ako ng pagkakataong pumalit hanggang sa nagtuloy tuloy na. Nakailang years na din ako mula 2011 till present. Enjoy naman magsulat para ka lang laging nagkukuwento ng mga nangyayari sa paligid mo. Kung di lang siguro nagka pandemic gusto ko din try mag travel ng mag travel then maishare dito sa Jeepney Press maiba naman hehehe. Pero dahil taga Nagano ako puro dito na lang muna ang maikwento ko.

After Utawit, Ms Irene asked me if can write something about our Filcom group na ilalagay daw sa Jeepney Press. That was December 23, 2011 para daw sa issue ng month of January/February. Sumunod naman meron parang comic character na ikaw bahalang

Last month, may nagtanong sa akin kung ano daw napapala ko sa pagsusulat dito. Sabi ko ok lang naman ako. Ang alam ko gusto ko lang din magsulat. Lalo na kung may free time naman ako. Mababait naman ang mga taong bumubuo nito. Kaya no problem sa akin.

Sunrise Watching on New Year’s Day in The Land of the Rising Sun

AMAZINGgrace! by Mae Grace

The Japanese people have proven time and again how passionate they are about this unique tradition of watching the rst sunrise of the new year, also known as ‘hatsuhinode’. Picture this --58,000 people at a beach waiting for the rst rays of the sun at the turn

of the new year, January 1st, 2023!

The place was at Cape Inubosaki in Choshi City belonging to Chiba Prefecture, believed to be the place where the earliest sun rises are experienced in Japan.

Legend has it that the goddess of the sun herself, Amaterasu, had created this country and when combined with the appearance of Toshigami, a god of good luck who appeared with every rst sunrise of the year, watching hatsuhinode has, undoubtedly, become

an indispensable new year’s tradition of praying and hoping for a better year and good luck for the Japanese people.

Why the Land of the Rising Sun?

Although Chatham Island in New Zealand has the earliest recorded clock time with almost a four-hour time di erence from Japan, it is the country of Japan that receives re ected sunlight earlier, even before light hits New Zealand, owing to Japan’s location as the easternmost than all other mainland Asian countries. Like Japan, let’s be happy being re ected light of the God of light this new year. With hopes and prayers for a peaceful, prosperous, ful lling, bright and happy new year!!!

Walk with me: Kyu Iwasaki-tei Gardens Ikenohata

- Ueno

By Lala Lopez de Leon

Despite the chilly weather setting in the start of winter, I still feel the need to walk…a physical activity that is easy and natural for me, or for anyone.

But it was because of the chilly weather that I was inclined to not overdo it, not to venture far out. So, here I am again, exploring Ueno area. I remember that I made a mental note to visit another Mitsubishi heritage property in Ikenohata, as I saw a signpost pointing to its location, on my way to the Ueno Tax O ce.

1896 - in the Philippine historical timeline, that was the year the Philippine Revolution began in August, and Jose P. Rizal was executed at Bagumbayan in December.

The Kyu Iwasaki-tei was one of the residences of Hisaya Iwasaki and his father Yataro Iwasaki, who founded the Mitsubishi group of companies. Hisaya ran the company for 22 years, and it was during his time that the Japanese industry had advanced rapidly catching up with the West.

Another jewel among the various properties of the family that founded the Mitsubishi nancial group, the Kyu Iwasaki-tei Gardens was built in 1896 in the style of both the Japanese and Western architecture. I seem to be fascinated by the heritage properties of Mitsubishi as I have visited a number of them, particularly in the Marunouchi area around the Tokyo Station.

There were originally about 20 buildings on a sprawling property of about 5 hectares, but today only the Japanese

Japan, and the Kyu Iwasaki-tei Gardens altogether was the rst site to combine Japanese and Western styles.

While the original Meiji-era style Japanese Garden has changed over the years, one can still see the stone well in what used to be a pond and there are stone pathways in the garden surrounding the property.

Kyu Iwasaki-tei Gardens

https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/teien/en/kyu-iwas aki/outline.html

Hall (Hiroma), the Western-style residence, and the billiard room that remain.

The interior of the western-style residence was designed by the British architect Josiah Condor, who was instrumental in promoting Western-style architecture in

Open from 9:00 – 17:00 (entry until 16:30)

Entrance fee: ¥400 (For 65 years old and over ¥200)

Accomplishment for today’s walk around this beautiful property and a little browsing of shops in the Ameya Yokocho market: 8,655 steps.

Photos by Lala Lopez de Leon

CHINESE NEW YEAR

We have all been lied to about almost everything we know. The calendar is no exception. For if it is indeed to measure the days of the year, then what kind of measuring device is as inconsistent as 31 in most times, 30 at times, 28 once, and heck, 29 every leap?

In many countries the New Year begins on January 1. However, this wasn’t always the case. Heard of the vernal equinox? For centuries, this marked the start of the calendar. [Whispers: this is on March.] For centuries, they were counting 7 days a week and observe seasons. You know that proverbial there is a time for everything blah-blah-blah…

The better question to ask now is: why was it changed? Ahh, that would be too profound. After all, the culled sheeple is as adaptive as are obediently conformists. Conform.

But, I am writing to greet you the seasons. Cheers! Enough with the gloom and doom. After all, like attracts like. Everything is energy. Thought is energy. Words become things. Whatever we focus on, we energize, therefore we bring into life. It is the law. It is immutable.

by Marnie Chan

To steal another from Abraham Hicks, one who is under the in uence of Source is a million times more powerful than millions who are not.

I am positive. AUM.

To borrow from basketball star Yao Ming who eloquently quoted his proud ancestry, how can a blade of grass ever thank the sun?

Lemme count the ways… the yesterdays, the coming days, the ever-present now! Experiences - there are no good or bad. There are just labels. Creatures - great and small. Again, just labels. All is simply energy. Ah, gratitude.

Aw crap! Okay lemme talk the way everyone talks… I wanna thank god with the capital G for everything. And here usually we mean - my family, my neighbors, my health, my bank account, my strong legs with shoes and sandals and cars to drive, [even Solomon didn’t drive a hyundai], the food we eat and the taste buds that goes with it [but who cares about food? We have onions!], and of course FB for deceptively making this earth avatar arti cially look good to everyone, above all, my internet provider from whom all blessings ow without which a day is simply unimaginable.

Gong she fa tsai is not happy new year. Another lie. Barest truth: it means, “I wish you more money.”

Money - the root of all evil. Another big fat lie. Truth is those who preach that are still asking for donations, love o erings, and tithes.

I wish you more money!

EVERY GISING IS A BLESSING

Congratulations to Jeepney Press on its 20th Anniversary!!!

Ang bilis nang panahon, parang kailan lang na binisita ako sa o ce namin noon ni Dennis sa World on Demand. Twenty years na pala ang nakaraan!

Mga KUWENTO ni Nanay ay kuwento nang journeys ko sa Japan. Kung papaano po ako nakarating dito sa Land of the Rising Sun.

Hindi ko alam kung ano ang purpose ko pagpunta sa Japan. Unang-una, sa edad ko ay hindi na po ako bata. Lola na po ako nang 10 apo ngayon. Ang physical features ko ay hindi naman pang entertainer. Kaya ano kaya ang gagawin ko sa Japan?

Dahil yon mga panahon na pumunta ako ay usong uso ang mga entertainers, mga talento tinatawag. March 1995 po ako pumunta dito.

Dinadayo po nila ako ng mga kababayan natin nang malaman nila na ang mama san sa CASTLE Resto Bar ay isang Pinay na matanda. At mga unang araw ko ay naging word of mouth, na meron silang nadadaingan na ina sa CASTLE. Kung kaya yon mga Pilipina na may problema sa kanilang buhay dito bilang asawa at ina ay sa CASTLE restaurant sila pumupunta para mag unload. Mga asawang sinasaktan ng asawa o iniwan, mga sari saring suliranin sa buhay nila. Ganito ang naging buhay ko at dinadayo nila ang mga lutong bahay ko.

Dinarausan ng mga ibat ibang pagtitipon gaya nang birthdays, binyagan at pati kasalan. Dito din po tinatag ang samahan nang ating mga seafarers na kasama si Attorney Rey Regalado nang ating Labor O ce

nuon. Ayan po ang aking naging buhay dito sa bansang Hapon.

At ang isang naging trabaho ko ay kinuha ako nang pinakaunang Yochien (kindergarten school) po dito sa Hirai, at kaunaunahang English teacher po nang tatlong sections nang mga bata. Once a week, tuwing Biyernes po ay meron akong turo sa Koiwa Yochien nang English.

At ang isang nakamamangha po ay sinilang ako nang taong 1947. At ako po ay dumating dito 47 taon gulang na meron nang 10 mga apo. Nakita po ninyo ang “numerals“. At December 2014 ito po ang nakita kong dahilan bakit ako dinala sa bansang Hapon, dahil sa puso kong Nanay at Lola. Lahat po ay biyaya nang ating Panginoon.

Kahit na ngayon nakaupo na lang ako sa wheelchair, patuloy pa rin ang aking misyon na ginawad sa akin ng DIYOS. At hangang sa huling hibla nang aking hininga, iniaalay ko po nang buong puso sa DIYOS at sa kapwa ko ang regalong bigay nang Diyos sa akin. Ang regalo nang paglilingkod.

Sinabi ni Hesus, “Ano man ang ginawa mo sa kaliit-liiran mong kapatid ay ginawa mo sa Akin.“ At ganoon din po, “I will pass this world only once. So whatever good things and deeds that I can do in my humblest way, I don’t let them pass by without raising even a nger.”

“HINDI MO KAILANGAN MAGING

MAYAMAN O MATAAS NA

PINAGARALAN UPANG MAKATULONG SA KAPWA MO PILIPINO” - Nanay Anita

On the Road to

TWO DECADES TRAVELING WITH JEEPNEY PRESS

“Your story is the greatest legacy that you will leave to your friends. It’s the longest lasting legacy you will leave to your heirs!“ - Steve Saint

Masaganang 2023 po sa inyong lahat! This is an auspicious year for Jeepney Press as we commemorate

Last year, the year of the Tiger was a year I can label erce, fearless and ferocious. One of the highlights of 2022 for me started when my son sent a message:

“Mom, are you afraid of heights?”

“Of course not, why?”

“Then, join us on a helicopter ride!“

“What???”, I answered back!

our 20th anniversary. Thanks to the perseverance and dedication of our publisher, Irene Kaneko and Dennis, our creative editor. Personally, they are my inspiration whenever I go through the process of writing my articles for each issue. It’s like embarking on a trip when I start to think of a topic and then reaching my destination as I nish the article. So, for this rst issue, please join me on an exciting “Jeepney Press“ ride with my story!

So, before the end of 2022, I embarked on one of the most exciting rides in my life!! Of course, I had second thoughts about going. Afraid that what if something happened or if the engine suddenly stops or... But I trusted my son so I went with him and his girlfriend. Up there in the sky, I remembered an episode in my childhood.

In the late sixties, I was one of those innocent schoolchildren, who watched a helicopter carrying Japanese Prime Minister Eisaku Sato land in our school grounds. We were selected for the rare visit because our school was in First Lady Imelda Marcos’ hometown. For me, it looked magnanimous, a symbol of authority and power. Little had I imagined that decades later I would have a chance to y on a helicopter.

For me, it wasn’t the thrill of going on board a helicopter but the sense of accomplishment it gave me. I wasn’t afraid anymore to try new experiences. It was the same feeling that I had when Dennis and Irene asked me to start this column. I thought I couldn’t do it. But each time I nish writing, there’s always a feeling of accomplishment, like a ower blooming again.

Another inspiration for me are the two babies, born during the pandemic who were still infants when I featured them in this column. Now, they are growing up fast and robust! Like Alice in Wonderland, let us follow the rabbit to more exciting adventures and stories in this column. I have included here some pictures and a write-up of “Paskong Kansai-Ya”, one of the main projects of Philippine Community Coordinating Council with the full support of the Philippine Consulate General in Osaka, in association with POLO, OWWA and the Department of Tourism.

“Paskong Kansai-Ya“

Close to 500 Filipino expatriates in Kansai and their Japanese family and friends attended a pre-Christmas event, Barrio Fiesta style at Osaka’s Taisho Kaikan on Nov. 27, 2022. The number of attendees considering the situation in post pandemic days was unprecedented, making it one of the most exciting pre-Christmas events and Barrio Fiesta rolled into one. The Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Osaka headed by Consul General Voltaire D. Mauricio, represented by Deputy Consul General Melchor P. Lalunio at the event and the Philippine Community Coordinating Council (PCCC) in partnership with POLO Osaka - Labor Attache Elizabeth Marie Estrada, Asst. Labor Attache Miguel Castriciones, OWWA O cer, Ms. Pilipina Dino and DOT Osaka Tourism Attache Jerome Diaz. The Philippine Community Coordinating Council (PCCC) is the umbrella organization of more than 25 Filcom groups from Osaka, Hyogo, Kyoto, Nara, Mie, Shiga, Kishiwada, Takatsuki Hirakata, Kadoma Wakayama and other areas in Kansai.

A cultural dance competition was the crowd drawer of the event that featured a consultation corner of POLO OWWA a orded many OFW’s to consult directly on labor matters. A beautiful church-inspired-booth complete with “parols“ was the DOT’s contribution to the festive Christmas atmosphere. There were also di erent stalls o ering Philippine food and goods, reminiscent of our simbang-gabi in the Philippines. The nation’s ag carrier Philippine Airlines ra ed o a round trip ticket. In between the dance performances were song numbers by Filipinos who have made names for themselves in Japan. SBI remit headed by Julie Garced was one of the major sponsors.

PCCC, formed in 2002 is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Its major events are the Leadership Training

Seminar in August, the Sportsfest in September, Christmas event in November and a Panel Discussion in March 2023. Paskong Kansai-Ya was conceptualized after the Seminar for community leaders in August. Ms. Katrina Fujikawa (Vice-Chairperson for Cultural events) and her committee together with the o cers of PCCC sought the advice of the consulate and POLO about the event.

The winner of the Dance Competition was the church based Sacra Famiglia Filipino Japanese group. Second place went to the Akashi CFC Community and the 3rd place was awarded to the Philippine Dance Company. The O cers of the PCCC are Neriza Saito (Chairperson), Herbert Benzon (Vice Chairperson - Social), Katrina Fujikawa (Vice Chairperson - Cultural), Larry Macalalad (Secretary), Delia Nakashima (Treasurer), July Bartequin (Auditor), Yoriko Hayashi (Asst. Treasurer), Maria Hiramatsu (Asst. Sec).

ADVICE NI TITA LITS Take it or Leave it!

IsabelitaManalastas-Watanabe

Dear Tita Lits Readers:

Wow! 20th year anniversary na ng Jeepney Press. Congratulations!!! Parang kailan lamang nagsimula ito.

Naisip ni Tita Lits na magpili in random ng mga snippets of my advice ko at sulat ninyo in the past, para maala-ala natin ang mga naging concerns ng ating mga kababayan. Sinunod kaya ang aking mga advice? Nakatulong kaya, or lalong napasama ang situwasyon? One thing is sure – I have enjoyed writing this column over the years, and I hope continue for as long as possible.

Jan 2012

EARNINGS – EXPENSES = SAVINGS (No.) EARNINGS – SAVINGS = EXPENSES (Yes!)

Feb. 2012, from Cora: I am now 45 years old. Gusto kong bumalik sa school to study. Hindi pa ba nakakahiya at my age?

Tita Lits: By all means, go for it!!! Walang age limit ang pursuit of knowledge.

May 2012

Tita Lits: Tita Lits is no superwoman. She has her own problems. She revealed in this issue her innermost feelings, about not having as much time as she wanted with her only son, with one sentence: Guilt, guilt, guilt. Tons of it. Tita Lits learned that it is not the length of time spent with your children but the quality time spent with them that is most important.

Sept. 2013, from Belinda: I don't feel happy working for my company anymore. People seem to be racing against each other even to the point of doing talking bad about other co-employees.

Tita Lits: Stay ka muna habang walang other alternative. Sometimes what happens to us have meanings which will not be very clear to us at the moment. Some time in the future, you will realize, “kaya pala…”. We just have to trust in the Lord.

2013, from Toto: How do you handle discrimination po when it happens to you? Naranasan na po ba ninyo sa inyong matagal na pag-stay ninyo sa Japan?

Tita Lits: Hay naku, Toto. Maraming-maraming beses na! (na na-feel ko din ang discrimination dito sa Japan, sa ating mga Pilipino). Sa awa ng Diyos, hindi naman niya ako pinapabayaan. Feel proud na Pinoy ka. Magaling tayo!

March 2015, from Lito: I just observed that despite the fact that Japan is a very rich and modern country, marami pa rin akong nakikitang mga homeless people.

Tita Lits: May Hapon akong tinanong bakit may mga homeless. Sabi sa akin, may mga homeless who chose to be homeless, instead daw of following the very rigid Japanese way of doing things.

July 2015, from Cecil (Osaka) Gusto ko sanang bumalik sa Pinas after 20 years in Japan, para magturo sa college. Problema ko po ay yung daratnan ko sa atin. Corruption, red tape, tra c, pollution, brown out, bagyo, oods, undisciplined people, kidnapping, hold-up... Tita Lits: Kahit saang bansa ka pumunta, may maganda at may pangit doon sa bansa na iyon, kahit Japan, Pilipinas, Amerika, Europa, etc. Kailangan mo lang tanggapin right away ang reality na ito. And then try to see the better side.

Jan. 2016, from Mando (Kawasaki): Masama po ba ang mag-invest ng konting pera sa lottery? Pero nakaka enganyo naman ang malaking cash

prizes dito sa Japan.

Tita Lits: Basta’t huwag ka lang magpa-addict (addictive lahat ng form of gambling), at disiplinahan mo lang ang sarili mo (like, bibili ka lang during summer and winter jumbo – twice a year, when the prize winning is huge), siguro OK lang. Pwede ka namang bumili rin siguro every month, kahit isa lang (JPY 300). Kung talagang para sa iyo, isang ticket lang ang kailangan mo para manalo.

Nov. 2019, from Minda (Tokyo): Tita Lits, umuwi man o hindi, grabe ang gastos. Tulungan po ninyo ako!

o ce dito.

Tita Lits: Tuwang-tuwa ako noong mabasa ko ang sulat mo. Subukan mo munang pumunta sa iyong local ward o ce para magtanong. May help desk normally, na mapapagtanungan. Meantime, i-record mo lang kahit sa isang notebook, and iyong gastos at ang iyong sales. Simpleng pag-re-record lang, basta’t intindi mo. Para alam mo magkano ang inilabas mong pera, at magkano naman ang pumasok na pera. Siyempre, kung ano ang di erence ng sales amount mo, at ng iyong ginastos doon sa sales mo, iyon ang iyong tubo (gross

I hate ipis! Or daga. Na mutant! Naku! Kung walang nagawa yung mga iba na tumira dati, ano pa kaya ang magagawa ko? At paano na ang future namin ni gwapong building supervisor!

Tita Lits: Nakakatuwang basahin ang sulat mo. Kasi ang style ay “bading”. Sorry, huwag kang ma-o-o end, pero ramdam ko, kabaro kita. Tingin ko din, hindi mo pangalan talaga ang Misha, kasi pangalan ito na hindi ma-determine kung ano ang sex ng nagsulat. Frankly, inulit-ulit kong basahin ang sulat mo, kasi parang naririnig kitang magsalita at right away, parang I felt close kaagad sa iyo. Hay

Tita Lits: Hay naku, ganyan talaga ang buhay. Kung mas masaya kang umuwi ng Pasko, ipikit mo na lang ang mata mo sa gastos. Isipin mo na lang na marami kang napaligayang mga kamag-anak at kaibigan. Smile, Minda. You are blessed, kasi binigyan ka ng Diyos ng grasya (good work and good earnings). Sharing with others your blessings will bring you more blessings.

Aug. 2020, from Liza (Nagoya): Dahil sa corona, nawalan po ako ng trabaho sa pabrika. Buti na lang po at huminto kami sa trabaho. Parang nakita ko na po ang tunay na tawag para sa akin. Gusto ko na pong gawin itong pagluluto at pagtatahe na maging main business ko sana. Ang problema ko ay hindi ko alam kung saan ako magsisimula para maging legal na business ang ginagawa ko. Saan po ako

dapat pumunta at ano po

kaya ang dapat gawin? Wala po akong alam sa taxes, resibo, accounting... Baka lusuban po ako ng Tax

income – kinita bago tax). Good luck and all the best sa iyo, Lisa. Am so very happy for you!

June – July 2021, from MIsha (Yokohama):

Minsan, pag labas ko po ng aking Yokohama condo with a view of Minato Mirai, nakita ko yung katabing neighbor ko nakabukas ang pintuan niya. Parang may bumulong sa akin na sumilip ng ever so slight. Paglapit ko ay bumulaga sa akin ang kakaibang smell. Well, kakaibang mabahong smell, madam! And then nakita ko po na ang daming kabundok na basurahan sa loob ng bahay niya. Na “na-shock po ako” is the understatement of this pandemic year! Nakakaloka. That day, sinabihan ko na agad ang building supervisor about my Smokey Mountain neighbor pero nganga lang and wala naman pong nagawa. Sayang kasi gwapo pa naman siya at type ko. Medyo natatakot ako pagdating ng summer at maglalabasan ang mga ipis. And

naku, mag-concentrate ka na lang sa pagtanaw ng maganda mong view. Maraming mga condo na walang magandang view, so take it as a blessing na mayroon ka.

Spring 2022 , from Rosarito (Nagoya)

Sino po iboboto ninyo this coming May 2022 elections?

Tita Lits: This is the shortest ever question I have received in my many years of writing this advice column in Jeepney Press! Whoever wins, as long as it is a clean and clear win, we, Filipinos should do our best to support him/her, respect him/her, and do our duty to contribute, no matter how small, to the betterment of our beloved Philippines, so we could be out of being ( again) the sick man of Asia. May the best candidate who can do the best for our country and our people win!!!

(P.S. Sorry, Rosarito – I have actually not answered your question! I, however, continue to pray for Divine Providence“Thy will be done”).

by Geraldine Limpo

FORTUNE HUNTING

Bago mag-bagong taon, kaugalian nating mga Pilipino ang magnilay. Tradisyong Kristiano ang pagmumuni sa mga nangyari sa 2022—unang-una na ang kahirapang idinulot ng COVID virus. Datapwa’t mas marami na ang may bakuna, marami pa rin ang nagkakasakit lalu’t lalo na at mas marami at mas madaling makahawa ang mga bagong variant. Noong simula, Greek letters ang mga covid variant—omicron na ang pinakapopular. Lately, mas mabangis na ang mga variant names, katulad ng kraken.

Nakatulong ang pagbibigay-ayuda ng gobyerno noong kasagsagan ng COVID spread (tinawag na stimulus bonus sa US) ngunit

nakakagambala ang in ation. Marami sa atin dito sa Japan ang nagrereklamo sa pagbaba ng purchasing power ng Japanese yen sa taong 2022; subali’t kapag inihambing natin ang in ation rate ng Japan (3.7%) sa world average (9.8%) o sa US (7.7%), at sa statistic na 43% ng mga bansa sa buong mundo ay may in ation rate na double-digit (halimbawa: UK, 11.1%), nababawasan ng kaunti ang ating pag-aalala. Marahil ay marami sa atin ang hindi nakakaalam na ang foreign exchange reserves (in other words, the nancial assets deposited in the Central Bank of a country) ng Japan (1,227 MN USD) ay pumapangalawa lamang sa China in the world rankings for 2022. Ihambing natin ito sa US na higit na mas malaki sa Japan, pero number 13 lamang sa world rankings. Sa madaling sabi, mas manageable (pa rin) ang pamumuhay sa Japan compared to most countries.

Sa pagdami ng foreign workers sa Japan, dumami din ang split family set-ups. Mahirap ang mangibang-bayan para humanap ng trabaho para maitawid ang mga pangangailangan ng pamilya, at marami ang sakripisyo ng napapahiwalay na tatay o nanay o anak o asawa sa kanilang mga pamilya at kaibigan. We recall the many adjustments we made (and continue to make) transitioning life from the Philippines to Japan. Do we remember arriving with feelings of loss and confusion and muster

every ounce of courage to make friends? We quickly realized that learning Nihongo becomes necessary for us to get around, buy food and necessities. In addition, we adjusted to the temperate climate which has four seasons (and thus, require di erent modes of clothing). Sa Pinas, the tee-shirt/denims/ sneakers can be worn all year round; these cannot be worn in Japan where the winters can see snow.

Such are my thoughts and re ections as I slurped the toshikoshi (buckwheat noodles) during omisoka ( nal day of the year/New Year’s Eve) that symbolize a yearning for a long and healthy life. Everyone excitedly gobbled up the meal, regarding it as a tting reward after backbreaking oosuji. Japanese houses are cleaned top-to-bottom because the traditional (Shinto) belief is that the gods (kami) visit homes during the New Year. After the meal, we donned our overcoats and wore our mittens and trekked to Kashihara Jingu. The biting cold was somewhat assuaged by the crowds ocking to the temple to hear the bells ring 108 times (joya no kane)-- the number represents the 108 desires that pious Buddhists endeavor to cut attachments to by means of meditating on the teachings/Dharma. We followed the lead of our Japanese counterparts who performed the ritual sequence of clapping their hands and praying for health and good fortune, and thereafter exchanged their old charms (which they left at the temple) with new ones (omamori) which will be hung later on doors to ward o evil spirits and bad luck.

The walk back home takes about half an hour, and we reward ourselves with cups of hot chocolate (no traditional symbolism here), chat a bit and retire to bed, once again failing to catch the rays of sunrise of

the rst day of the new year. It is common belief that seeing them is considered auspicious.

The Japanese new year is celebrated for three days during which the Japanese visit the temples and shrines (hatsumoude) and eat special dishes called osechi ryouri that celebrate the abundance of land and marine produce.

Prayers lifted up and tummies lled, my family members and I somehow forget COVID-19 and in ation. As if by magic, the world looks bright again. After all, hope springs eternal, as they say.

Happy New Year, everyone!

UTAWIT: The 15-Year Journey

by

Irene

Kaneko

UTAWIT (Uta and Awit) is a national singing competition among the genuinely talented Filipinos and Japanese in Japan. However, UTAWIT is not just an ordinary singing contest that showcased the talent of singers as they render their chosen pieces. What makes UTAWIT uniquely di erent from contests of the same nature organized by Filipinos is the scale of production

and the passion that the organizers have invested to ensure that the objectives have been achieved and the excellent quality of each production was beyond compare.

As UTAWIT closes its nal curtain and makes history after 15 years, I take pride on the achievements and take pleasure in thanking everyone who has been a part of this noble endeavor.

In my capacity as Chairman, I am lled with gratitude for having been richly blessed with experience during the journey of UTAWIT.

Journey of humble beginnings

What has started 15 years ago as a simple idea from three groupsJeepney Press, Samahang Pilipino and Teatro Kanto supported by the Philippine Embassy thru the Philippine Overseas Labor O ceevolved into a symbol of unity and cooperation between the peoples of 2 nations with distinct culture. The past 15 years have witnessed the growth of UTAWIT from infancy when only Filipino migrants were able to participate using only Original Pilipino Music and auditions were limited only to Kanto. Eventually, Japanese nationals were allowed to join and Japanese songs were included in the repertoire of contestants. Signi cantly, UTAWIT has reached the national level with regional qualifying rounds held in several prefectures from Hokkaido to Kyushu through the help of Filipino groups in the local areas.

Journey with noble objectives

Through the years, UTAWIT remained faithful to its mission of recognizing and promoting Filipinos as mainstream performers in Japan, enriching cultural appreciation among Japanese and Filipinos, and generating resources for developmental activities of the organization. These goals served as light posts that kept the organizers motivated, humble and united in purpose.

Journey beyond borders

It was actually a journey that transcended borders of nationality, culture and language. Filipinos and Japanese from di erent prefectures in Japan converged and competed in the spirit of true friendship and

camaraderie. Starting as competitors vying for the grand prize to be proclaimed as champion, the contestants forged friendships from Day 1 during the technical rehearsals and during Day 2 while at the dressing rooms or even on stage. Language barrier was overcome bearing in mind the spirit of unity between Filipinos and Japanese. We witnessed how Filipinos embraced Japanese music through their rendition of Japanese songs. Not to be outdone, Japanese with their soulful delivery of OPM proved that music is the universal language of the heart.

Journey towards excellence

Whether regional qualifying rounds or the grand nals, each UTAWIT production demanded

sense of ful llment and satisfaction while re ecting on the fruits of our labor.

One of the fruits of UTAWIT in a personal capacity is having been recognized for my contribution and service to our kababayans as the UTAWIT Chairman. Thru the recommendation of the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo, I was endowed with the Filipina Women’s Network Global 100 Most In uential Filipina Women in the World Award in October 2015 at San Francisco, California, U.S.A.

Journey imbued with social responsibility

time and attention to details, trivial or signi cant. The theme for each year was carefully conceptualized, planned and executed to present only the best performers matched with excellent production from the choice of venue to stage design and technical arrangements as well as souvenir program. After each of the annual grand nals, we woke up the following morning with an exhilarating

One of the driving forces to pursue despite the challenges the organizers faced was the desire to help the poor but deserving children in the Philippines. UTAWIT, in its initial stages, provided support to the Classroom Galing sa Mamamayang Pilipino Abroad and later to Gawad Kalinga Sibol Child and Youth Development Program that provided assistance to the basic education to marginalized children in the Philippines.

Journey of love and heroism

Blessed with highly quali ed and passionate members of the organizing committee, the challenges and the pains have been overcome with love for music and service. The sleepless nights were worth the excitement and the ful llment that each UTAWIT Grand Finals brought. The sel ess giving of time, talent and resources of the

organizing committee members of each Regional Qualifying Round and culminating on the Grand Finals was highly commendable, enough to persevere and look forward to another year.

The de nition of journey is movement with direction. And this is what UTAWIT has exempli ed. UTAWIT has moved people to share their time, talent and treasure to achieve their dream. UTAWIT has moved in di erent places to promote what it believed in that is, music is a universal language without borders. UTAWIT gathered people and transcended limitations and challenges to bring the Filipinos and Japanese together in solidarity of purpose and mission.

To all of you who have been part of this wonderful journey of UTAWIT for 15 years, thank you very much for all the love and support. Doumo arigatou gozaimasu.

Glen Gypsy ’s

“Moving on doesn’t mean you forget about things, it just means you have to accept what happened and continue living.”

- Erza Scarlet