Alberta Filipino Journal - April 2023 Issue

Work from Home: Work from Whom?

EDITOR’S CORNER

Lito Mendoza Velasco

He who works always works with a specific purpose and for a great cause that proceeds from the first principles or element of things we called urstoff or the unmoved mover. In the ancient world, people’s faith played a vital role in shaping life in preparation for their future, we called now -present era. However, at present, technology serves as an integral part in making the impossible possible, the unreachable reachable. In the same manner, technology causes to bring either closer or farther to each other. A form of communication wherein a long- lost friend can easily be found through the social media and can otherwise become worst enemy in the long run.

He who works always works in the service of other people’s businesses

and even political party’s advocacy, platform, and philosophy. From whom a person’s identity and principle are compromised. Some may even work harder for the interest and welfare of significant others in the society. Working against the party’s policies and procedures would be tantamount to his termination from the party. He who works from home feels like an outcast in his own home. For the reason that whatever he does means no significant relationship in the description, definition, and essence of his own home. It seems to me that paid work being done alone and in silence can be considered as a modern form of slavery. In the olden days, forced labour was exercised by the landlord. Labourers used to be hit and hurt and obliged to finish their tasks with empty stomachs

or even when they were sick. Nowadays, landlords spared the rods yet hitting their employees with the deadlines and failure to do so, would surely affect their job performance and salary deductions will be reflected on their monthly paycheque.

He who obeys God faithfully, prays fervently, and obeys Commandments conscientiously will be gifted with the greatness of heaven. It sounds like sanctioning his own freedom. Especially when he recites this phrase: “It is no longer I who live in me, but You live in me, Lord.” Truly believing and trusting in the invisible Almighty. Well, I don’t mean to corrupt everyone’s faith in here. I just like to contribute to the foundation of and clarification of one’s conviction and belief by logical inference and syllogism. To wit, St. Thomas of Aquinas used this argument to prove that there is an Ultimate Cause causing the series of causes in his famous argument: “Quid quid movetur ab allo movetur” - Whatever is moved is moved by another.” Hence, in the order or series of motion, this means that, when

a particular thing is moved, there must be a mover, a mover that is not moved by another. But there is evidently a motion or movement in this world; then, there must be a mover; a mover that is not moved by another, we called this mover the Ultimate mover and the Uncaused cause.

He who believes that we all are brothers and sisters belonging in the same family in the community must also believe that he has the duty to dignify others in the society by selflessly following the dictate

of Pure Reason.

As children, we have one Father from whom all good things come; As students, we have teachers from whom we learn good lessons; As business owners, we should sell commodities to sell rather than buying and selling people; As philanthropists, we should learn how to love people and use things, not use people and love things (John Powell); As politicians, we should work with the right people to form a good government and provide a good governance.

Dianne Wulf

Dianne Wulf is a Filipino-Canadian writer/ director whose work explores female-centric themes, trauma, and depiction of flawed and complex characters, and offers new perspectives on family, identity and culture. Her work includes commercials, music videos and films including a Telus Optik TV web series and Telus STORYHIVE projects. In 2018, she was in the Writers Room for Mosaic Entertainment. In 2019, she was selected for the Reelworld Film Festival’s Emerging 20 (E20) for her feature script Disconnected and was one of 25 participants selected for the Netflix-BANFF Diversity of Voices Program for her original concept Out of this World and again in 2021 for her feature Rose Among Thorns. Dianne received an AMPIA Rosie nomination for her short, The Legend of Mindi, and her short Like Right Now was one of 9 finalists in the 2019 CBC Short Film Face-off. Her screenplays, Where or When and Kaze no Denwa

received support from Alberta Media Arts Alliance Society and Women In Film and Television-Alberta; and is one of the 8 alumni of Women in the Director's Chair (WIDC)

in 2021. Dianne is also an ACTRA member and an advocate for women and diversity in film and continues to tell stories that bring much-needed representation in the Industry.

Dianne Wulf is an actor/ writer/ director and will be making her feature film starring debut in the apocalyptic supernatural thriller Spin the Wheel (2023).

Dianne Wulf as the lead character Eve in Spin the Wheel (2023). Spin the Wheel coming soon across Canada and the US.

Jerry Caingcoy: The Immigrant Leader That Inspires

Written by: Venice Camson

with the late great Ms. Maya Angelu’s words: “I come as one, but stand for Ten Thousand''. Well, of course, except that the community that Jerry actually represents is nearly 1 million-strong.

big enough to selflessly share knowledge and skill, and recognize other members of the Filipino and multicultural communities who are doing great as well. In the process, this opens new and better opportunities for them in Canada.

The far-reaching The Filipino Champions of Canada (TFCC) and the different Filipino communities are celebrating TFCC Founder & President Mr. Jerry Caingcoy yet again. His most recent recognition as Immigrant Champions of Canada in Inclusive Leadership is another reason to be proud as part of the Filipino–Canadian family.

The grandiose awards ceremony was held at the posh Calgary Petroleum Club on February 24, 2023. Along with other outstanding awardees, our very own Jerry was beaming happily but humbly. After all, he has consistently pushed for inclusive leadership and a welcoming environment from Day 1. Jerry believes in the proverbial ‘round table’ where everyone is equal, where every voice matters. Still, his light shines so bright, we can’t help but be drawn to it.

On the 15th June 2021, the City of Calgary announced Jerry as its new Finance Leader, after the position was left open with the retirement of its former Leader. Jerry’s promotion came through after passing the selection process with flying colors. Philippine Consul General to Calgary, Mr. Zaldy Patron, in his letter of endorsement, describes Jerry as a “well-loved and inspiring community leader”, “a strong community advocate and ally of the Philippine Consulate General in Calgary”. Mr. Bruce Randall, former Executive Director of Calgary Region Immigrant Employment Center (CRIEC), of which Jerry is a member of the Board of Directors, commends Jerry’s “dedication to his craft, sense of professionalism, offering life-long learnings and skills to provide direction, motivation, and professional development”. We are proud to be counted among Jerry’s peers, knowing how he identifies

Jerry’s career and list of accomplishments show us that there are no shortcuts in life, that cutting corners won’t do. With “Galing, Sipag, at Tiyaga”, he was heard from and seen, loudly and clearly, from a small island in the Biliran Province, Philippines. Long before migrating to Canada, he charmingly and smartly conquered the Corporate world at the Makati Business District. His continuing pursuit for personal and professional growth pushed him to put up and run his own business successfully. While consistently modeling “Galing, sipag at tiyaga”, he did not stop there, and eventually uprooted his young family and migrated to Canada in the early 2000s. Henceforth, Jerry found his way into Community leadership and found his passion for community service. Back home in Davao City, Philippines, he and his wife founded a private school, Lifeword Montessori School, Inc. in 2003. To date, the school is still up and running, fully committed to its mission of molding young minds into becoming responsible adults, future leaders, and kind citizens.

In 2015, Jerry founded The Filipino Champions of Canada (TFCC). Their vision was clear and it said it all: “Connect. Share. Inspire''. TFCC, a non-profit organization, provided a platform for Filipino champions to share their story, because Jerry has always believed that personal stories are powerful, that they can change lives, and thereby change the world. Their advocacy expanded to medical and health missions, special assistance and outreach activities during calamities, and during the Covid-19 pandemic. Community engagements were not confined to Calgary alone, but extended to Filipino communities outside Calgary. Among the highly anticipated regular TFCC events are Filipino Champions Talk, Café Talk, The Filipino Champions of the Year Award, Championing Communities Workshops, Pinoy Breakthrough Conference, and Business-wise Conference. All these events bring together great minds, men and women whose hearts are

In early 2021, Jerry was inducted as Founding Director of the Filipino-Canadian National Congress (FCNC), a non-profit organization mandated to represent the close to 1 Million Filipinos across Canada. This is testament that his positive influence in the Filipino and multicultural communities is sought after, and is in fact highly desired in and outside Calgary. It may even be safe to say that soon we might see a Filipino-Canadian fellow holding an elected office

in Canadian government. Jerry has touched the lives of countless immigrant Filipino families who were just starting to find their way into Canadian life, as Board at the Calgary Region Immigrant Center. CRIEC advocates matching newcomer professionals with Calgary Corporate professionals, leading up to structured occupation and specific professional partnerships. Consistently, what is being promoted are the inherent Filipino values of dedication to work, mastery of craft and dependability. continued on

Jerry and his wife, Mary Ann at the Immigrant Champions of Canada Awards Night at the Calgary Petroleum Club.

Jerry proudly wears the Filipino National Costume at the Immigrant Champions of Canada Awards Night.

Jerry poses after receiving his award as Immigrant Champions of Canada in Inclusive Leadership

Fil-Can plays for Polish Hockey League champs

GKS Katowice

Brandon Legaspi Magee of the GKS Katowice and his teammates emerged champion in the 2022-23 season of the Polish Hockey League.

The 29-year-old hockey professional is the son of Nenette Legaspi Magee and Scott Magee of Edmonton.

Brandon suited up for the SSAC Lions U15 AAA, the Lacombe Generals in the Allan Cup, University of Alberta in the University Cup and Fife Flyers in the EIHL Cup before signing up for the Tauron KH GKS Katowice. (Moses Billacura)

Edmonton Warriors rule Premier Tournament

Congratulations to the 2010 Edmonton Warriors Girls Tier 1 in capturing Gold in the Premier Spring Showcase Tournament in Surrey, B.C . The team went undefeated vs top teams in British Columbia.

Kingston Quinto Ireland, Ruxleigh Bayasen shine in tennis tourneys

From March 24,2023 to April 1, 2023, Osten & Victor Tennis Centre in Calgary played host to the U12 Fischer Indoor National Tennis Tournament. Forty of the best boys and 40 of the best girls in Canada attended the event, with 11 kids in total representing the province of Alberta, two of which were of Filipino descent. Elevenyear-old Kingston Ireland, son of Cecille Quinto and Brad Ireland from Edmonton and 12-year-old Ruxleigh Bayasen, daughter of Thelma and Mark Bayasen from Calgary competed in the big event. These two bright tennis stars qualified by ranking in the top five in Alberta in the U12 age category. Kingston finished 3rd overall in the U12 Provincial Tournament in March, while Ruxleigh finished 6th in the

U12 Provincials but qualified after a strong performance in the U14 Provincial Tournament.

The week-long event tested their physical endurance and demanded mental strength. It was a great experience where they met like-minded tennis players from across the country and forged lasting friendships. Kingston finished 24th overall and Ruxleigh 33rd overall. The future is bright for these young tennis players who have been playing since age 5. Kingston trains at Saville Community Sports Centre in Edmonton and Ruxleigh trains at Osten & Victor in Calgary. Up next, they will be attending a friendly competition between Tennis BC vs Tennis Alberta taking place in Kamloops, BC on the April 21 weekend. Good luck to them both.

SkinLueur tallies 3rd straight win in MBA Alberta

SkinLueur Aesthetics and Laser Centre remained on top in the ongoing 2023 Maharlika Basketball Association (MBA) Alberta Tournament.

SkinLueur, relying on the leadership of the quick AJ Mapa, trounced the visiting Grande Prairie

Gilas, 90-64 to tally its third straight victory, April 16 at the Ecole MauriceLavallee in Edmonton.

SkinLueur will play Dalluyon on April 22, 10:30 a.m., at the East Glen High School gym.(Moses Billacura)

Silver medal win by Paul Kane Junior HS St.Albert. The Blues finished 2nd after losing to host Strathcona by just 3 points in the basketball finals, March 4 at Strathcona Academy gym. Anthony Martin Grijaldo, No.8, the only player of Filipino descent is the team's point guard. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

Maple Lloyd Productions Ltd. Team A of Edina Bannawel finished first runner-up in the 2023 Lloydminster Filipino Canadian Basketball Association (LFCBA) Spring tournament title, April 16. Their Team B landed fourth place.(Contributed photo)

Praise for Open Visa

“This is a very moving and readable book detailing with the hassles, trials, and successes of real people. I expect that new as well as prospective immigrants, especially care givers, will find it informative and valuable because of its many themes: separation from family and loved ones, adjusting to a new culture, difficult employers, coping with loneliness and temptation, unscrupulous lovers, infidelity, the value of wise counsel, integrity, hard work, and support of family, caring friends and church fellowship.”

Arleigh Porte Ph. D. Registered Psychologist

“As an immigration lawyer I see the paperwork and the problem with Immigration Canada. This book completes the whole picture. Romeo gives you an intimate look into the daily lives of new immigrants and foreign workers. A must-read if you are coming to Canada.”

Irma Roberts

“It is actually very inspiring book depicting the lives, challenges and successes of Overseas Filipino Workers around the world. As a caregiver for many years before and, coming from a third world country, one wouldn’t recognize that we are a valuable member of society wherever we are in the world until you read this book. These people are the heroes of today.”

Myra Morillo RN

“An intriguing story with many twists and turns about what Filipino citizens, especially women, face when leaving their homeland to seek to provide for their families. Ultimately, it points to Jesus as the answer. Be braced to learn about cultural views and adaptations with a surprise ending!”

H. Wilson Nelson, D. Min. Dedication

This book is heartily dedicated to countless overseas foreign workers and caregivers scattered around the world. In their pursuit of a better life abroad, no amount of discouragement and ill will can stop them from moving on. The amount of service, sacrifice and care they afford to others is immeasurable. They deserve commendation, recognition, and

from page 5

Given his high credibility, focused dedication, and a personality that is authentic and candid, Jerry hosted the weekly TV show FCM Live. This far-reaching multicultural media promotes, informs and advocates for the Filipino-Canadian community, taking up diverse topics and concerns that are beneficial to its audience and other stakeholders. The show features interviews, forums, and training. The main objective is always to elevate the standards of the Filipino community, inspiring and giving them the confidence to grow and evolve as a progressive and resilient community. After all,

Open Visa. Copyright © 2011 (2023 Revised Edition)

ISNB: 978-1-77069-269-5

WordAlive Press Winnipeg, MB

appreciation. They are, indeed, the new heroes of today’s fast-paced world and care-deficient society.

Chapter 1

“Assembly time is 8:00. We have to be there by 7:45,” Lily said while adjusting her shawl and gown. “How do I look?” “I can’t believe it. You look so pretty in that gown,” replied Nora.

The gym was two blocks away from their three-story dormitory. The morning rush was so frantic—tricycles, jeeps, and even those nasty, smokebelching Baliwag Transit buses were cluttering the narrow Del Pilar Street. A block away, east of the dormitory, was the Provincial Capital. As usual, both the front and back alleys of the building smelled of brewed coffee and the faces of zombie-like bureaucrats were everywhere, coming in and out of the edifice.

It was a special day for Lily and Nora. Tomorrow they would be graduating from the Philippine’s Wesleyan University. Nora’s dreams of becoming a social worker were finally coming to fruition. What a noble way of helping street people, Lily thought.

As for herself, her passion came from her mother’s experience of giving birth to her. After years of sweat and toil, today was the moment she’d been waiting for. She would be one of those heroines midwifes so highly respected by the expectant moms visiting their village’s delivery room.

The gym was packed with people from all over the province. The scent of flowers dominated

this is who we truly are as a people, no matter where we are.

Recognized as an excellent resource speaker, Jerry shares wisdom and inspiration through his numerous talks that showcase Filipino culture, heritage and values, highlighting successful Filipino-Canadians, and connecting them with multicultural communities. In the name of selfless, dedicated service, Jerry makes it a point that he finds time for invites to speaking engagements like these, where participants and mentors include foreign-trained professionals, and experts in their own fields.

Notably, and just as timely, Jerry is among the recognized social

Open Visa: Overview

Copyright © 2020 Print ISBN:978-1-7774589-0-4

Ebook:978-1-7774589-1-1

the hall. Parents were excited to witness their sons and daughters marching toward their assigned rows of chairs. While that heartbreaking graduation march played, Lily’s mind had nowhere to settle. The little village clinic in her hometown was on her mind, and she was visualizing the role she played there as the savior of all birthing mothers.

“Wake up, Lily,” said another graduate to her left. “Your name was called. Get up and receive your diploma.” From the stage, she clearly recognized her mom and dad in the audience way at the back of the auditorium, waving and wiping their teary eyes.

“Thank God, I made it,” were the only words uttered while she headed back to her assigned chair after taking the diploma.

“So where are you going to work?” inquired Nora as they mingled around in the midst of the zoo-like gym. “I’m not quite sure yet,” Lily replied. “Mike is urging me to work with him in the Middle East, so we can be together.” It had been three years since Mike had started working in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Their short-lived high school romance had been made even shorter when Mike’s need to work abroad became apparent. His family was dependent on the money he would earn, and supporting a family of nine was a big task for him. He was the eldest of the seven kids.

“I suppose a month-long rest is enough time for me to settle down and focus on what to do next,” Lily said with a sigh. “A friend of mine was telling me of a job opportunity working with kids in Mindanao,” Nora said. “These kids have been

media influencers in Calgary. Not only does he share professional skills and advice, he also shares his passion for home cooking through a social media account that features authentic Filipino dishes, aptly called ‘Pinoy Kitchen Abroad”. Despite his considerably prominent social media status, Jerry has maintained his account private and independent so as to keep the unbiased and spontaneous nature of his features. This is so that he can freely share his home-cooking, and where he sources his ingredients, even the tools and utensils that he uses. By doing so, he supports and independently endorses local businesses, big and

orphaned by the never-ending struggle between the Muslim separatists and the government. I suppose this is my big break.”

Nora’s family couldn’t do anything about her decision. They had no choice but to allow Nora to hit the road. Her family depended on farming. Their three hectares of rice paddy was not enough to pay for her education. Opportunities were out there, but she had to be swift in claiming them.

As they entered the Bake Shoppe along Paco Roman Street, one of the city’s best restaurants, tables were ready, and waiters were on hand to take their orders. Coming from a religious family, Ka Oscar, Lily’s dad, said grace over the food and everyone around the table started excitedly talking about everything under the sun. Only the arrival of the food was enough to slow down the conversation.

“Mike sent me an open-dated ticket to Jeddah,” Lily said as her mom took a sip of iced tea. “When I’m ready, I can fly to Saudi Arabia to be with him anytime. He told me about an opportunity there to work in a hospital near his workplace. I applied for the job.”

“He’s from a good family,” her mom said in a persuasive voice. “Your tatay and I have no objection to your plan to work together abroad. However, wouldn’t it be nice if Mike could take a holiday here before setting your wedding date?”

“I’ll call him tonight and discuss the matter,” Lily commented.

--------- to be continued ----------

Open Visa

Copyright © 2011 by Romeo Honorio

small alike. In 2020, he was tapped by top Management of the popular Asian Supermarket chain in the United States, Seafood City, when it opened its 1st store in Calgary and invited him to a pre-Opening event to welcome the people of Calgary to Seafood City’s presence in their community. Not surprisingly, the Opening was a success, with people lining up for 2-3 hours in its first weeks of operation. Happily, the market support and patronage has been sustained, much thanks to Jerry’s good word and personal support.

Again, let us express our heartfelt Congratulations to Jerry, and wish him well as he continues his advocacies

Living in Alberta for over 30 years and travelled almost all the major cities in Canada, Romeo listened, interviewed, and recorded the stories and experiences of many Filipino organizations and Overseas Foreign Workers.

He has worked at many jobs over the years as a researcher, speaker, facilitator, consultant, and editorial writer to two local community papers - Diaryo Filipino in Calgary, Alberta and Taliba Newspaper in Toronto, Ontario.

As the current Chair of Diaryo Alberta Society, Romeo conceived and directed the Society’s publication of a monthly newsletter called “Miscellanews” and an occasion-specific magazine called “Allbertans”. During the pandemic he initiated the declaration of Covid-19 Pandemic Heroes Day on Dec. 21, 2020, in Alberta. Since then, with the generous support of Filipino businesses and organizations, over 3,000 Covid Heroes received certificate of recognition/appreciation and gift bags.

It was also in December of 2020 his second book, “Covid-19 Fundemic” was published. Both Open Visa and Covid-19 Fundemic are available at Amazon.ca This year, Romeo is hoping to publish his third book “Fundemic Moments”.

Published by WordALive Press. Winnipeg, MB

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, businesses, companies, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

in the different Filipino-Canadian socio-economic circles. To use his own words, what I have achieved so far is a beautiful “story of shattering the proverbial ‘glass ceiling’, a success story of ‘breaking down barriers’ in the Canadian workplace, from the perspective of an internationallytrained professional immigrant.” His story still has several chapters coming, it is far from over.

“As Filipino-Canadians, we can proudly say that we have come a long way, since the first documented Filipinos’ arrival in Canada in 1931. Let’s share a big toast to our collective success as a growing community. Let us keep the Filipino-Canadian light brightly shining,” says Jerry.

Romeo Honorio romyhonorio@gmail.com

Usapang Pederal

Message of the Month: Building off the work we’re already doing to help make life more affordable for Albertans

April is Filipino Restaurant Month. This is an initiative celebrated by the Filipino community and will be held across Canada for the second year in a row. Filipino Restaurant Month in Canada (FRMC) was officially launched in April 2022 in efforts to promote and mainstream Filipino cuisine in Canada, support Filipino restaurants, highlight the skills of Filipino chefs, and encourage the use of Philippine-made ingredients. In Budget 2023, the federal government is helping small businesses like Filipino restaurants by taking action to crack down on junk fees, to continue to ensure businesses are transparent with prices and to make life more

affordable for Canadians. Small businesses will also benefit from free access to online fraud and cyber security resources from Visa and Mastercard to help them grow their online sales while preventing fraud and chargebacks. Throughout the entire month of April, we encourage everyone to explore the diverse culinary scene of the Philippines across Canada while helping Filipino restaurants thrive.

On March 28, 2023, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Chrystia Freeland, released Budget 2023— A Made-in-Canada Plan: Strong Middle Class, Affordable Economy, Healthy Future. This budget makes

life more affordable for Canadians, when they need it most, including by delivering a Grocery Rebate – up to an additional $467 for an eligible family of four so they can keep putting good food on the table and pay their bills. We’re also providing a tax-free payment of $500 to help low-income renters who are struggling with the cost of rent, and increasing assistance for students. Together with the provinces and territories, we’re making historic investments in health care and we’re attaching conditions to deliver results like more family doctors and better wages for personal support workers and related professions, so you get the care you deserve. We’re expanding dental coverage to millions of Canadians to help people get the dental care they need while making their lives more affordable.

The federal government will also improve foreign credential recognition for internationally educated health professionals and advance multijurisdictional credential recognition so that health care professionals can work wherever there is a need.

We are also investing $49.5 million over five years for the Security Infrastructure Program to

address the evolving security needs of diverse communities. This enhanced program will be launched later this year as part of Canada’s new Action Plan to Combat Hate

Our government will provide $1.6 billion over six years and $315 million ongoing to welcome 500,000 new permanent residents each year by 2025. We will also address application backlogs and increase the federal contribution to legal aid services. Additionally, we are continuously investing in digitizing the immigration system, hiring more agents and adding new processing offices around the world. Recently, MP Rechie Valdez visited the Philippines and announced on behalf of Minister Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, the opening of a new application processing centre in Manila, Philippines.

This initiative supports Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy and helps boost immigration application processing within Canada’s centralized network abroad. The new centre is located within Canada’s Embassy in Manila and will be supported by 37 new employees. The added capacity is part of Canada’s ongoing efforts to accommodate the high volume

of visa applications from around the world and will support ongoing efforts to also improve client service and help achieve Canada’s planned increases to immigration levels in the years to come.

Our budget announcement responds to top concerns shared by members of the community in Alberta. Our Liberal team knows we have more work to do and more results to deliver for Albertans. And we want to hear from you directly on how we can work together to help Albertans succeed while building a stronger, fairer, more competitive, affordable, inclusive, and more sustainable economy. You may contact our offices directly to share your feedback and we look forward to hearing from you.

Sulong Alberta!

Gumagalang,

George, Randy, at Rechie Hon. Randy Boissonnault is the Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre. He has been Canada’s Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance since October 2021.

George Chahal is the Member of Parliament for Calgary Skyview and was formerly the Calgary City Councilor for Ward 5. Rechie Valdez is the Member of Parliament for Mississauga–Streetsville. She is Canada’s first Filipina Member of Parliament.

Contacts:

The Hon. Randy Boissonnault

MP for Edmonton Centre

Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance

Main office – Edmonton #202, 10235 124 St

Edmonton, Alberta

T5N 1P9

Telephone:780-442-1888

George Chahal

MP for Calgary Skyview

Main office – Calgary

101-7 Westwinds Crescent NE

Calgary, AB

T3J 5H2

Telephone: 403-291-0018

Email: George.Chahal@parl.gc.ca

Website: GeorgeChahalMP.ca

Rechie Valdez

Tel: (905) 812-1811

Email: rechie.valdez@parl.gc.ca

Choices

By Mila Philipzig

Taking our chances

Bahala na.

May awa naman ang Diyos.

Then

We choose what to remember, what to dismiss

What to give up of our yesterdays

To make space for tomorrows

There is only so much we can hold onto Forgetting starts

As we change with our landscape

And adopt a new speak

We misplace words in the old language

Curiosity, adventure, novel sights and sounds

Absence

Compromises

Start to crowd out some old Memories of places, friends, and lovers

We thought we would keep forever

We pack and unpack our memories

We shift our stories, we shuffle our perspectives

To match our now changing and heightened identity

There is only so much we can hold

Only so much we can bring from the past

Without breaking.

Without bursting.

As immigrants, we choose to take the longest time

To call this new land home

For the longest time

We choose to be in-between here and there

And we fly back and forth

Back and forth

Leaving pieces of ourselves in two countries

We choose carefully what we abandon, what we discard, and where

We decide cautiously what to cherish as part of this land, and that land

In the new land, we are still immigrants

In the old, balikbayans

The labels define our belonging.

We stay in-between

In-between countries

In-between cultures

In-between languages

In-between mindsets

In-between friends

In-between homes

Our hearts crave two worlds.

Like having two lovers that together

Make up the perfect whole.

But also creates a hole

Because we know this would not last.

How long do we keep our two loves?

How long do we avoid

Those lifetime across-the ocean kind of forever goodbyes

For which we are never ready

It seems

As immigrants, we have to choose

And keep on choosing.

Pagpapabuti ng Programa ng

Imigrasyon na may Kapakinabangan sa Alberta (Alberta Advantage Immigration Program)

Ang mga pagbabago sa Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) ay magpapadali para sa mga kinakailangan na manggagawa at negosyante na maging permanenteng residente.

Ang ekonomiya ng Alberta ay may momento, at ang pamahalaan ng Alberta ay nakatuon sa higit pang paglago at pagkakaiba-iba upang ang lalawigan ay nananatiling makinang pang-ekonomiya ng Canada. Noong 2022, pinili ng halos 50,000 katao mula sa buong mundo ang Alberta bilang lugar para mamuhunan, magtrabaho at magpalaki ng kanilang mga pamilya.

Ang AAIP ay isang programang pang-ekonomiyang imigrasyon na nagbibigay-daan sa Alberta na magmungkahi ng mga kwalipikadong manggagawa sa mga kinakailangan na sektor para sa permanenteng paninirahan. Sa pamamagitan ng pagpapabuti ng programa, magiging mas mapagkumpitensya ang Alberta sa pag-akit ng mga bihasang bagong dating mula sa buong mundo.

"Ang Alberta ay isang lupain ng pagkakataon. Sa ating probinsya, mahahanap mo ang gusto mong karera, mag-uuwi ng malakas at regular na sweldo, at makakasama pa rin ang pamilya at mga kaibigan. Hindi lang gustong pumunta rito ng mga tao sa buong mundo, nais naming pumunta sila rito para maging bahagi ng ating mga komunidad at sa ating kaunlaran, at tulungan ang Alberta na patuloy na umunlad at magtagumpay.”

Danielle Smith, Premier

Ang gobyerno ng Alberta ay gumagawa ng limang pagpapahusay sa AAIP na tutulong sa parehong mga negosyo at internasyonal na mga manggagawang may kasanayan.

Ang mga pagbabago sa mga daloy sa Kanayunang Negosyante (Rural Entrepreneur) at Pagbabago ng Kanayunan (Rural Renewal) ay makakatulong sa mga rural na komunidad ng Alberta na manatiling masigla at lumago. Ang pinababang pasimulang pamumuhunan na $100,000 para sa Rural Entrepreneur Stream ay magbubukas ng pinto sa karagdagang mga kwalipikadong negosyante na gustong magtatag o bumili ng isang umiiral na negosyo sa mga kalahok na komunidad sa kanayunan ng Alberta. Ang pagaalis sa pangangailangan para sa isang liham mula sa isang ahensiya ng pag-areglo sa ilalim ng Rural Renewal Stream ay makakatulong sa mga komunidad sa kanayunan na maakit, kumalap at tanggapin ang

Repentance, False Religion, and the True Way

(Luke Chapter 13) #12

FROM A VANTAGE POINT

pleaded with the city to turn from the destruction that would come upon it.

How often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings: Jesus wanted to protect, nourish, and cherish His people, the Jews, even as a mother hen protects the young chicks.

This picture of a hen and her brood tells us something about what Jesus wanted to do for those who rejected Him.

1) He wanted to make them safe.

2) He wanted to make them happy.

mga bagong dating batay sa mga lokal na pangangailangan.

Ang Alberta ang may pinakamahusay na front-line na mga manggagawa sa pangangalagang pangkalusugan sa mundo at ang probinsya ay magsisikap na magkaroon ng mga tamang suporta para matiyak na makukuha ng mga Albertan ang pangangalaga na kinakailangan nila kung kailan at saan nila ito kailangan. Ang isang bago, nakatuong landas upang maakit ang mga medikal na propesyonal sa Alberta ay nangangahulugan na hanggang 30 porsyento ng alokasyon ng Express Entry Stream ng Alberta sa 2023 ay nakalaan para sa mga propesyonal sa pangangalagang pangkalusugan na may alok na trabaho sa Alberta mula sa isang tagapag-empleyo ng sektor ng pangangalagang pangkalusugan at nakakatugon sa mga kinakailangan upang magtrabaho sa isa sa mga karapat-dapat na trabaho sa pangkalusugan.

Dalawa pang pagbabago ang makikita sa isang bagong linya ng telepono na direktang nag-uugnay sa mga miyembro ng kawani ng AAIP sa mga kliyente at pakikipagtulungan sa pederal na Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot. Ang pakikilahok sa piloto na ito ay makakatulong sa mga nagsilikas na may mga kasanayan at kwalipikasyon na kailangan sa Canada upang mandayuhan sa pamamagitan ng mga kasalukuyang programang pang-ekonomiya. Mga mabilisang kaalaman

• Ang Alberta ay kasalukuyang may humigit-kumulang 100,000 na bakanteng trabaho sa buong lalawigan.

• Ang Alberta ay nagtataya ng pinagsama-samang kakulangan sa trabaho ng 33,100 manggagawa pagsapit ng 2025 sa ilang trabaho, antas ng kasanayan at sektor (pinagmulan: Alberta's Occupational Outlook, 2021-2030).

• Ang Immigration, Refugees at Citizenship Canada ay nagtatakda ng mga taunang limitasyon sa nominasyon ng AAIP.

o Nakatanggap kamakailan ang Alberta ng pagtaas sa mga nominasyon:

▫ 9,750 nominasyon noong 2023

▫ 10,140 nominasyon noong 2024 (tinatantya)

▫ 10,849 na nominasyon noong 2025 (tinatantya)

Tito S. Venida is a product of the University of the Philippines. He used to be a student-leader during his college days and became one of the founders of the Tau Gamna Phi, one of the world leading Philippine-produced fraternities. His immensurable love for the human race has brought him to the conviction of translating his mission from fraternity into Divinity--from a mere brotherhood into sainthood. Tito authored a book entitled Quocunque Jeceris Stabit, which means, wherever you throw, it will stand.

Jesus Laments Over the City That Will Reject Him (Luke 13:34-35)

O Jerusalem, Jerusalem: Jesus spoke with special feeling, repeating the name for emphasis and depth. When the LORD repeats a name twice, it is to display deep emotion, but not necessarily anger (as in the Martha, Martha of Luke 10:41; and the Saul, Saul of Acts 9:4.

This deep love Jesus had for Jerusalem was with full knowledge of the city's sins: the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her. Despite that, He still

3) He wanted to make them part of a blessed community.

4) He wanted to promote their spiritual growth.

5) He wanted them to know His love.

This could only happen if they came to Him when He called.

The words "how often would I have gathered" are a subtle indication that Luke knew Jesus had visited Jerusalem many times before (as clearly recounted in the Gospel of John), even though he only mentions this last visit.

And ye would not: The problem was not the willingness of Jesus to rescue and protect them. The problem was that they were not willing. Therefore, the predicted destruction would surely come upon them.

Your house is left unto you desolate: These words seem to predict the coming destruction of Jerusalem by the Roman army in A.D. 70.

Ye shall not see Me, until the time come when ye shall say, 'Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the LORD:' Jesus here revealed something of the conditions surrounding His Second Coming. When Jesus comes again, the Jewish people will welcome Him as the Messiah saying, "Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the LORD."

It will take a great deal to bring Israel to that point, but God will do it. It is promised that Israel will welcome Jesus back even as the apostle Paul said in Romans 11:26: "And so all Israel shall be saved."

TO GOD BE THE GLORY. AMEN!

The importance of a letter of acceptance or LOA in a Study Permit Application to Canada

I received several inquiries regarding letters of acceptance. A letter of acceptance is an important document when applying for a study permit to Canada. To be eligible for a study permit, a potential student must provide a letter of acceptance from the educational institution where the applicant plans to study. The school must be a Designated Learning Institution. The letter of acceptance MUST INCLUDE the following information below:

• full name, date of birth and mailing address of the student;

• name of the institution and official contact;

• DLI number;

• telephone, fax, website and email information for the institution;

• type of school or institution (e.g., private or public and, in cases where the institution is publicly funded but not a university, indication as to whether the institution is a post-secondary college, a postsecondary community college or a post-secondary technical college);

• the field or program of study, level and year of study into which the student was accepted;

• the estimated duration or date of

completion of the course;

• date on which the selected course of study begins;

• the last date on which a student may register for a selected course;

• the academic year of study that the student will be entering;

• whether the course or program of study is full-time or part-time;

• the tuition fee;

• scholarships and other financial aid (if applicable);

• an expiry date indicating the date until which the letter of acceptance is valid;

• any conditions related to the acceptance or registration, such as academic prerequisites, completion of a previous degree, proof of language competence, etc.;

• clear identification of the educational institution, normally confirmed through its letterhead;

• for study in Quebec, the requirement of a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ); and

• where applicable, licensing information for private institutions normally confirmed through letterhead.

As per R219(2) a letter of acceptance isn’t required if, the application for a work or study permit of the family

member of a foreign national is approved in writing, before the foreign national enters Canada. This exemption does not guarantee the approval of a study permit application.

Conditional letters of acceptance

When a successful completion of a prerequisite course of program is required before admission into a program of study, the DLI may issue a conditional letter of acceptance to a foreign national. This letter should be submitted when the applicant applies to enter Canada as a temporary resident.

When the completion of a prerequisite program, such as English as a second language (ESL0 or French as a second language (FSL), is a condition for enrolment in a subsequent program, officers issue a study permit for the length of the prerequisite program plus 1 year.

Students who successfully complete their prerequisite program will then need to apply for a new study permit and demonstrate they have completed the admission requirements.

Thus, potential students must check and review the letter of acceptance from the Designated

Authentication and Validation of Professional Work Products in Alberta in Engineering

The Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientist of Alberta published a specific procedure of authenticating and validating any Professional Work

Products by any Engineering Professional that are allowed to Practice their

ENGINEER IN ACTION

Mervin Cereno, P. Eng. mmcereno@gmail.com

Mervin Cereno is a Filipino immigrant in Canada. He is a Filipino-Canadian Engineer licensed to practice Engineering in Alberta and British Columbia. Based in Edmonton, he is employed by one of most sought-after Construction and Engineering Consulting firms as a Senior Structural Engineer. He is a Volunteer and Advocates to help Filipino-Canadian Engineers to pursue their Professional Engineering License in Canada.

For advice on a specific case in pursuing your application, whether in ASET or APEGA, please email me at mmcereno@gmail.com.

FROM MIGRATION TO IMMIGRATION

Learning Institution to ensure that all the required information is only the LOA before submitting the study permit application.

If you have questions regarding the above article, you may contact Marjorie at info@mcncanadaimmigration.com

Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

A word of caution: You should not act or rely on the information provided in this column. It is not legal advice. To ensure your interests are protected, retain, or formally seek advice from a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) in good standing of CICC. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of RCIC’s.

Marjorie Carmona Newman is a REGULATED CANADIAN IMMIGRATION CONSULTANT based in Edmonton, Alberta. She is a 2022 Recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, and was a recipient of CAPIC's Members Service Award for four consecutive years (2015-2019). She is currently a member of CAPIC’s Policy Committee and previously served as Prairie Chapter representative for Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC) in the Governance and Nomination Committee and Education Committee.

Profession in Alberta. As defined by APEGA, a professional work product (PWP) is an output of a professional service that requires authentication and validation as described in this practice standard. Defined in the General Regulation as “…plans, specifications, reports, or documents of a professional nature,” a PWP is any output of professional services with technical information relied upon by others, internally or externally, to make a decision or to take action. A PWP can be physical (e.g., paper, plastic film), electronic (e.g., electronic document, image), or digital (e.g., software, modelling, simulation, or any other computer application that cannot be reproduced in a physical or electronic format).

In the Philippines, authentication of documents such as drawings, plans and reports are done using the dry stamp and signing the documents. This procedure is very old and prone

to tampering where credibility of the document is not preserved.

In Canada, the Authentication and Validation of these similar documents are done digitally, and the credibility of the signed documents are preserved.

For a Professional Work Product to be Authenticated, the below Infographic was prepared by APEGA.

Authentication and Validation are different as defined by Professional Practice. Authentication must be performed by the Licensed Professional and the Validation should be performed by the Responsible Member of the Firm and does not indicate technical responsibility of the document. This is a way of having quality control of the signed document.

The reason why I submitted this article is to educate the reader of the

Alberta Filipino Journal of the way Alberta Engineers sign and stamp the plans and drawings and other related documents (Professional Work Products) compares to the process in the Philippines. The Practice of Engineering in Canada is always bound by Integrity and Ethics and has to be taken seriously to preserve the Engineers’ Duty to the Public. Internationally Educated Engineers that wish to pursue their Engineering Profession in Canada must be abide by the rules and regulations of each Provincial Regulating Bodies.

The Alberta Filipino Journal took part in the 2nd Filipino Restaurant Month event, April 8, by dining at the Manila Grill South in Edmonton. Publisher Jun Angeles presided over an editorial meeting and later on warmly welcomed Attorney Joseph Angeles who informed the editors of his appointment by Premier Danielle Smith to run for Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in Edmonton South.(Photos by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

Why representation matters for Filipinos

these communities. And by logic, we should be an influential demographic in the countries where we settled down. Millions of Filipinos now populate North America, specifically the US and Canada. We are all over Europe, the Australian continent, South and Central America, and just about any other country in between.

Bing J. Jaleco

bingjaleco@yahoo.com

Raleigh “Bing” Jaleco was a veteran journalist and public relations consultant in the Philippines. He started out as a correspondent for Ang Pahayagang Malaya and then moved on to be a reporter, and then an editor, of The Manila Chronicle. He also served as news editor of The Manila Standard, business editor of The Manila Times, and sub-editor at the Manila Bulletin. He landed as a permanent resident in Canada in 2016.

IT has often been said that you will find a Filipino in every nook and cranny of this world. Many of us decided to leave the motherland and settle where the grass appears greener. And in doing so, we help promote the impression that we are modern-day nomads and seafarers who seek new shores in search of a better life.

This is why we have been able to build communities in so many countries. The result of our migrations, and proof of our presence in our adopted societies, is the creation of

Our social character flaws notwithstanding (unfortunately, “crab mentality” is still a thing among overseas Filipinos), many of us have taken roots, or have decided to take roots, in our adopted countries. We try our best to acclimatize and blend in, and to adopt the ways of our new home. Work has never been much of an issue for us, and we accept the new paradigm and practices as a small sacrifice to make in exchange for the conveniences and the rewards we receive for our labours.

Yet if there is one thing that continues to hamper our growth as an immigrant class, it is that we shun political participation as a negative rather than a positive. I blame decades of political repression (the Martial Law years) that resulted in a collective indifference towards our very own identity as a people (the post-Marcos era). We seem to have resigned ourselves to this indifference and cynicism, but it really does stick out like a sore thumb when you try to settle down in a different country where society is more politically robust and participatory.

We have been accepted by our adopted country as productive members of society, this much is true. But we

will never be taken seriously, as society takes seriously other migrant races, unless we start conducting ourselves as a people of principles and integrity. We must “relearn” national pride and embrace the idea that the so-called Filipino culture is built on the values of our elders, not on the vices of our politicians.

The provincial general elections will be held next month. There are three Filipinos running for MLA in Alberta, one in Edmonton and two in Calgary, namely: Attorney Joseph Angeles for Edmonton-South under the UCP; public school teacher Rosman Valencia for Calgary-East under the NDP; and a former CBC TV host Astrid Kuhn for Calgary-Buffalo under the UCP. Although they are running under different political parties, that is a matter of political belief and personal persuasion. The big picture here is that Filipinos in Alberta are badly in need of representation. We are now the third biggest ethnic group in the province, and the projection is that the Filipino population is expected to grow tremendously in the next three to five years.

Given the growth projections and taking into account the viability of a migration wave to Alberta, Filipinos must understand the urgency of having representation in the Alberta legislature. I believe that voting for representation is a way to earn the respect of Albertans— and Canadians for that matter—for our capacity to not only be productive members of society but to be leaders who can contribute to the growth and well-being of Alberta.

Joseph Angeles was born in the Philippines. His educational background includes a high school scholarship at the Philippine Science High School, a degree in Special Education from the University of the Philippines— Diliman and a Juris Doctor degree from the Ateneo School of Law (a Jesuit School).

He chose to immigrate to Edmonton in 2010 as he and his wife, Katrina, were seeking a better future for their family. He worked fulltime for the Law Society of Alberta while successfully completing his law accreditation. He was called to the Alberta bar in 2014 and worked for both a large and medium-sized firm before joining his wife Katrina at Angeles Law.

Joseph volunteers for various organizations. He was Grand Knight of his Knights of Columbus chapter and a member of the Couples for Christ. He acts as volunteer legal advisor to the Philippine Business Society of Alberta and is an active conservative at both provincial and federal levels.

Joseph enjoys spending his free time with his wife and daughters.

Rosman Valencia believes Albertans deserve a strong, public education system. Starting his teaching career in Forest Lawn where he currently lives, Rosman now teaches a split class of grades 3 and 4.

Rosman moved to Canada from the Philippines in 2015 where he became involved with his neighbourhood associations and brought his community together through the organization of the local Pride events. Before moving to Canada, Rosman was elected as a Barangay Youth Alderman in Caloocan City, ran youth leadership training programs, and is now the Vice President of the End of the Rainbow Foundation in Calgary.

Rosman Valencia Calgary-East

Joseph angeles UCP candidate for Edmonton–South

UCP candidate for Calgary-Buffalo

Astrid Kuhn is a proud Albertan is Calgary-Buffalo’s candidate for the May 2023 election.

Dr. Astrid Kuhn is a sessional lecturer at Mount Royal University (MRU), where she grows entrepreneurial minds in the faculty of business and communication. Kuhn designs and delivers courses to facilitate collaborative and creative problem solving towards innovative solutions. As an entrepreneur and business consultant, she’s experienced first hand the challenges and

Radio Canada, she stresses the need for clearly and She’s been an active volunteer serving as VP and Treasurer for Women and Film in Television:Alberta (WIFTA), MRU Advocacy Committee, community youth mentor, Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, Mustard Seed and Avenue‘s Top 40 Under 40 alumni. She has been married to her high school sweetheart, Ken Kuhn, for over 30 years. She enjoys her children and even more, her grandchildren and dog who fondly

Astrid Kuhn

PANAHON NA!

Premier Smith appoints Joseph Angeles as official candidate for MLA in Edmonton South

By Moses Billacura

The Filipino community’s hope of representation in the Legislative Assembly of Alberta is not lost as Premier Danielle Smith appointed lawyer Joseph Angeles as official candidate for Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in the Edmonton South riding.

The appointment to run for MLA was seen as a clear indication that Premier Smith has fully acknowledged the importance of having a Filipino voice in the Legislative Assembly.

Attorney Angeles, whose family is originally from Bataan, is a practicing lawyer, managing their own law firm with wife and fellow lawyer Katrina along with two other lawyers and has been active in serving his community in various roles in the Knights of Columbus, Couples for Christ, Philippine Business Society of Alberta, including heading MP Kelly McCauley’s riding board as president.

“Panahon na magkaroon tayo ng boses sa Legislative Assembly and I’m appealing to our Kababayan to support us,” Angeles told the Alberta Filipino Journal about having

a Filipino voice and perspective in the Legislative Assembly.

While he seeks the support of his Kababayan, he also sought the support of other visible minorities in Edmonton South, pointing out that they share the same challenges as immigrants who aspire to be better contributors to the Alberta society.

Angeles, who started his career with the Law Society of Alberta, strongly believes in working for Albertans for a sustained economic stability and affordability, improved healthcare services and continued work in fast-tracking the recognition of foreign education credentials.

•

Attorney Joseph Angels and his family engage in a light conversation with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith at a UCP gathering in Deputy Premier Kaycee Madu’s HQ, April 10, in Edmonton. (Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

Attorney Joseph Angeles with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith at a UCP gathering in Deputy Premier Kaycee Madu’s HQ, April 10, in Edmonton. (Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

Ryan Paluca and Dorothy Cornel get the chance to pose with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith during the UCP gathering, April 10, to support Attorney Joseph Angeles who is running for MLA in Edmonton South. Paluca and Cornel are long-time mortgage and real estate business clients of the Angeles Law Firm in Edmonton. (Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

Attorney Joseph Angeles (2nd from left) introduces himself at a UCP gathering, April 10, as Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, Deputy Premier Kaycee Madu and Richard Wong (extreme left), another candidate for MLA, listen. (Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

Living in the shadows no more

MIGRANTS' VOICES

Marco Luciano mluciano2@gmail.com

Evangeline Cayanan has recently received her Permanent Residency (PR) status in Canada, which is a significant achievement for her and her daughter. On the morning of Friday, April 6th, Vangie as her friends call her, received a letter from the Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) saying that her application for permanent residency on Humanitarian and Compassionate grounds was approved.

Evangeline is an undocumented migrant worker who has been facing deportation from Canada along with her six-year-old daughter McKenna Rose. Cayanan’s deportation was originally scheduled for July 8, 2022. However, three days before

the scheduled deportation, she was granted a one-year postponement of her deportation as reported by CBC along with another Edmonton family. Cayanan lost her status in 2015 after leaving an abusive employer. While undocumented she gave birth to her daughter McKenna Rose.

Cayanan, like most undocumented migrants in Canada, fall out of status when they were not able to meet the eligibility criteria for existing immigration programs after lawfully entering Canada. They overstayed their authorized period of stay. According to the government website that while there are no accurate figures representing the number or composition of undocumented migrant population in Canada, estimates range between 20,000 and 500,000 persons.

The Migrants’ Rights Network (MRN), a national alliance of grassroots migrant’s advocacy groups has been calling on the federal government to implement a regularization program for all undocumented people in Canada. Such a program would provide a path to permanent residency and citizenship for undocumented migrants. MRN founding member, Migrante Canada’s Chairperson, Danilo De Leon, argues that regularization would improve the living and working conditions of undocumented migrants and would help them contribute to the Canadian economy. De Leon himself is an undocumented migrant worker.

The Canadian immigration system is geared towards temporary and

conditional permits, many of which lack a clear pathway to permanent residency and citizenship. This system contributes to the vulnerability of undocumented migrants and makes it difficult for them to access essential services such as healthcare, education, and employment. The lack of status also makes them susceptible to exploitation and abuse by unscrupulous employers, agents, consultants, and human traffickers.

The news is not only a major milestone for Vangie but also serves as an inspiration to many migrants. The journey to obtaining PR status in Canada is not an easy one, and it requires a lot of hard work, dedication, and patience. In Migrante Alberta’s new release, the organization says that “Through their diligent efforts, her lawyer, and the community - a remarkable accomplishment that speaks volumes about the expertise and dedication as well as a groundswell of public pressure and community support, Ms. Cayanan was able to overcome the challenges and achieve her dream of making Canada her permanent home.” The organization emphasized that “Ms. Cayanan's cause is a testament to the power of collective action in promoting justice and fairness.”

To address the issue of undocumented migrants in Canada, the government should consider implementing a regularization program that would provide a pathway to permanent residency and citizenship for these individuals. Such a program would not only benefit undocumented migrants but would also contribute to the Canadian economy and society. It is essential to recognize the contributions of undocumented migrants and to provide them with the support and protection they need to thrive in Canada.

Vangie was extremely grateful for the IRCC decision. It will allow her and her daughter McKenna Rose to build a better life in Canada. She also said that “I will continue my advocacy so that the government of Canada will also look into the other 500 thousand undocumented migrants

that have a very precarious status”. “My organization Migrante Alberta encourages everyone to stand in solidarity with people like me and fight for a fairer, more compassionate immigration system and to fight the system that put us in this kind of situation,” she added.

WELCOME TO ALBERTA

Whether you want to call Alberta your new home or are here for a short time, supports are available to help you move, immigrate, work and more. Learn more.

Attorney Joseph Angeles with wife and fellow lawyer Katrina and their daughters pose for the photo opportunity with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith at a UCP gathering in Deputy Premier Kaycee Madu’s HQ, April 10. (Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

Attorney Joseph Angeles exchanges ideas with fellow members of the visible minority, April 10. (Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

Marco Luciano is the Global Council Representative of Philippine based Migrante International. He is also the current Secretary General of its chapter Migrante Canada.

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How social media can play a big role in finding a Filipino dentist with a “Great Smile”

By Moses Billacura

You’ve probably noticed that when a Kababayan is looking for a Filipino dentist on Facebook these days, those who are in the know will readily reply by typing the words, “Great Smile Family Dental”.

To your surprise, maybe, Great Smile Family Dental is actually the third clinic that opened in 2005, seven years after the first one, Thorncliffe Dental Clinic. The second clinic was Bright Smile Dental Clinic that opened its doors in 2000.

Doctor Rod Montano said that Great Smile was heavily promoted

on social media and thanks to the 6,300 plus followers, prospective patients can easily reach out to them by just calling the number that can be easily memorized, (780) 444-1444.

It was around 1996 to 1998 that Doc Rod, while working for other clinics, thought of opening his own clinic. And his prayers were answered in 1998, when a dental clinic was up for sale and after negotiations with the owner, he was able to purchase the dental practice and set up his own professional corporation. The Thorncliffe and Great Smile clinics are conveniently located side by side

on the West Side of Edmonton with Bright Smile on Hermitage Road NW, serving those on the North side of the city.

For the growing number of Filipinos in Edmonton, naturally, they would prefer to see a Filipino dentist simply because they can easily express their dental concerns in their own language. Doc Rod fortunately can speak three dialects, Tagalog, Ilonggo and Cebuano and with that, the language barrier is no longer a problem.

And thanks to TikTok, a growing number of Kababayans found out about the clinics because Doc Rod enjoys posting about his practice on the popular social media platform. He said it is a blessing to know that his patients come from outside of the Edmonton area, even as far as Vancouver, Peace River, Fort McMurray and Calgary.

“They all found out about us on TikTok,” said a laughing Doctor Rod. Social media can indeed greatly help in finding a Filipino dentist with a “great smile”.

(This is Part One of a three-part series, a special feature by the Alberta Filipino Journal, on the 25th year anniversary celebration of the Great Smile Family Dental Group this year)

Sumalinog appointed to Premier Smith's Council on Multiculturalism

our greatest strengths and is a key pillar in building a brighter future for everyone in our province. Our goal is to continue shaping the province where everyone feels they belong, where a person’s culture, language and religion are not only respected but also valued. I’m looking forward to the work of the new council in helping us achieve this," said Premier Danielle Smith in a press release.

Sumalinog, who owns Ellwood Child Develoment Center, is actively involved in the Filipino Canadian National Congress as Alberta director and Philippine Business Society of Alberta as vice-president. She will be closely working with Celso Andrade, owner of Sunfreight Cargo, who is a member of the Anti-Racism Advisory Council.

said Deputy Premier Kaycee Madu, who is also the Minister of Skilled Trades and Professions.

Quick facts

Of the 4,177,720 people in Alberta:

27.8 per cent (1,161,420) are visible minorities

23.2 per cent (970,975) are immigrants

6.8 per cent (284,465) are Indigenous

The share of Albertans from different cultural backgrounds (visible minority population) has more than quadrupled to 1,161,420 in 2021 from 269,280 in 1996.

Full Council membership includes:

Sumita Anand (co-chair)

Philomina Okeke-Ihejirika (co-chair)

Ali Eltayeb

Ali Rakka

Alphonse Ahola

Buta Singh Rehill

Charles Yang

Jackie Halpern

Jibril Ibrahim

Justin Jimmy

Payman Esmaili

Rick Walters

Rolando Inzunza

Thomas Eapen

Virginia Sumalinog

Sheliza Kluge

Council members will explore ways to:

• promote cross-cultural understanding and celebrate multicultural communities

• support innovative cultural initiatives and opportunities for diverse social interactions

• increase educational initiatives and public awareness about the importance of diversity

• increase opportunities for Indigenous people and newcomers to share their skills and talents and contribute to the growth of Alberta’s economy

Virginia Sumalinog is among those appointed to the Alberta Premier's Council on Multiculturalism that will closely work with Alberta's Anti-Racism Advisory Council.

The new council will advise on

ways to best support, inspire and promote cultural diversity, social inclusion and educational exchanges. This work will continue to help build inclusive communities where people feel appreciated, valued and respected.

“Alberta’s diversity is one of

“Alberta has long been known as a multicultural mosaic made up of people from different cultures, languages and ethnicities. A land of opportunity, but one that still comes with challenges for racialized people in our province. Addressing racism, discrimination and inequality requires dedicated focus, and I am pleased that the Premier’s Council on Multiculturalism will be working alongside Alberta’s Anti-Racism Advisory Council to secure a brighter future for the next generation of Albertans,"

Charlie Wu

Dahlia Mostafa

Ebenezer Asare

Erick Estrada

Hussein Warsame

Rekha Gadhia

Sherrisa Celis

SunJong Chun

Tariq Khan

Thomas Cheuk

WaLe Balogun

Basir Saleh

Gurbachan Singh Paul

Holly Mah

• create a province where everyone feels they are included and their cultures and heritage are valued

• help implement steps outlined in the Alberta Anti-Racism Action Plan

• introduce anti-racism legislation to address disaggregated race-based data collection to combat workplace and job-related discrimination

• continue work with the federal government to improve hate crime legislation

• establish mentorship programs for internationally trained professionals. (Moses Billacura with Alberta Press Release)

Virginia Sumalinog with Premier Danielle Smith at a UCP gathering hosted by Deputy Premier Kaycee Madu, April 10, in Edmonton. (Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

Seamlessly Surviving The City’s Construction Season

There is an ongoing joke that people in Edmonton say every year, starting in April and ending in October. “There are only two seasons in Edmonton: winter, and then construction season.”

This commentary is shared with amusement, but mostly with annoyance. I can imagine people getting frustrated during their trips because of roads with reduced lanes or signs for detours that seem to appear out of nowhere. Given that we live in an area where it’s too cold to do construction work for half a year, the frenzy to get as much done during the warmer months is inevitable.

Construction seems endless. That is partially true, and it happens for various reasons. It could be a multiyear project such as a large building, highway, or LRT construction; a series of pothole repairs over a street; underground utilities in an

area or a dozen trees being planted requiring a sidewalk to be blocked; a playground being made; a large home renovation extending to the sidewalk, or; a complete rebuilding of a couple of homes in a divided infill lot.

For those who pay some attention to city and provincial politics, it’s easy to recognize there are many infrastructure projects that were approved in recent years. Oftentimes, some of these projects span multiple years, even close to a decade. That’s the situation right now by my house, as the LRT going to the west side of the city began construction in 2021.

Here are some tips I can share to share that can help reduce the stress and annoyance. It can be summed up to these two: Knowledge is power. You have a voice.

Stay informed and subscribe to updates from the government. This can help with understanding

the status of the project. Is it the beginning, middle or end of a project?

Is it a large roadway construction that spans many years, like the recent Terwillegar Drive expansion? Both the City of Edmonton and Government of Alberta publish updates on social

GENERAL POINT OF VIEW

gqgeneral@gmail.com

media and you have an option to get e-newsletter updates.

Stay informed and subscribe to updates from the construction company. Some of the larger construction companies are diligent with giving advanced notice for

upcoming construction changes. This can help with being familiar with detours and changing travel routes ahead of time so that there’s no sense of panic. In my area, they use social media frequently as well as e-newsletters.

Pay attention to road closures and changes in sidewalks and bus stops. Signs in the sidewalks and roads and streetlights are helpful. It’s useful to see the signage especially for when bus stops get moved. Construction companies that are diligent and responsible install signage as visibly as possible.

Make the most of navigation apps as they are even more advanced now. It’s impressive that even in short trips, when you are following the route, the bright yellow or red line on a portion of a road clearly shows that traffic will be slowmoving there. The best part, is that they sometimes offer multiple routes showing the fastest one, so even if it is not what you typically use, it can help you avoid congestion altogether.

Don’t hesitate to file complaints when something is wrong. Construction companies are responsible for many things around their construction zone so that people are as safe as possible, such as clear and safe detours for pedestrians especially in the winter. It is easy to file a complaint using the City of Edmonton 311 app as you can take a photo and the location is automatically detected.

The mindset of “the long-term gain might be worth it” can give some comfort. As someone who cannot drive, I eagerly look forward to using the new LRT lines so I can reach other parts of the city more conveniently. For road expansions, it can be helpful to look forward to the additional road capacity once it’s opened. And it’s always a good thing when road surfaces are fixed, and the dreaded potholes are gone.

I hope that everyone stays safe, stays informed and happy–or at least more relaxed–despite potential traffic and travel jams.

Giselle General came from the cold, mountainous region of the Benguet province, and immigrated to Canada as a teenager in 2007. She completed a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Alberta, and has a career in the nonprofit sector. She works at the Edmonton Community Legal Centre, which provides free legal help to low-income Edmontonians. She channels her creativity by writing in her personal blog, FilipinaYEG, and self-published a book called The Humanity of Me, and is active in numerous volunteerbased initiatives.

ARTOSPECTIVE - an artist’s point of view

The Filipino Spirit of Bayanihan

Ida Beltran-Lucila ida_b_lucila@yahoo.com

Early this month, the Edmonton Philippine International Centre (EPIC) held a Bayanihan Day for the refurbishment of the facility. Bayanihan is referred to as the spirit of communal unity, work and cooperation to achieve a particular goal. About 40 people showed up - bringing food, beverages, tools and supplies, and sharing their time and energy in revamping the old Celtic Hall to a truly Filipino centre. Some came out of curiosity, to learn and understand the collective vision for displaying and highlighting the Filipino presence and contributions in Edmonton, Alberta, and Canada.

The day was spent meticulously scraping and removing wallpaper,

Celtic symbols from glass windows, putting down tapestries, heavy spearlike rods, banners and moving heavy iron throne-like chairs. Others made commitments of support. In true bayanihan fashion, all these were done in a happy and festive moodserious in the performance of tasks and lighthearted in conversation. At the end of the day, many made it a point to us that they be informed of the next Bayanihan Day and a promise to help again. To this, we are extremely grateful and humbled with the selflessness demonstrated.

The most traditional concept of bayanihan is the practice in earlier times of neighbours carrying a whole house to help a family relocate. With the Edmonton Philippine International Centre, it is not about relocation, but about institution. It is about collective, and not individual, benefit.

The bayanihan spirit is a custom

continued on page 23►

Resources on Gardening and Nature

By Giselle General

Edmonton is a city with four distinct seasons, where the natural environment changes drastically and it is evident in the temperature as well as the plants and animals around us. Celebrating the warmer weather and making the most of the limited gardening season is a passion for many. It's springtimewhere snow starts to melt and people start thinking about the green spaces around them.

It is valuable to be knowledgeable about best practices to make sure that we contribute positively to caring for the natural environment in our area, whether right in our front or backyard, or in public spaces.

Here are some resources or programs on gardening and nature in our city. On Encouraging Gardening and Beautification

1. Edmonton Public Library Seeds Library: Our incredible library system keeps on getting better – you can check out seeds for planting! You can also borrow a seed packet, learn about the plant you want to grow, take a few seeds to plant, and return the rest back to the library. It’s a nocost way for you to try gardening, with the wealth of information you can access by the seeds cabinet and of course, books in the library. It’s

a pilot project located in the main library branch in downtown. The website is https://www.epl.ca/seeds/

2. Front Yards in Bloom: Front Yards in Bloom has a nomination process for the summer season, and also during the winter season. Any home that gets nominated as an attractive front yard will receive a bright yellow outdoor sign that indicates that the home is nominated by someone. This initiative believes that those who make their yards beautiful at any time of the year deserves recognition, and there are special categories for other spaces like apartment balconies. The website is https://www.edmonton.ca/programs_ services/landscaping_gardening/ front-yards-in-bloom.aspx

3. Root for Trees: Root for Trees is an initiative by the city that helps facilitate tree planting activities. Group tree planting can serve as an incredible team building activity for any group, and businesses, community organizations and individual residents can ask for help to set up a session. The annual target of this initiative is to plant an additional 45,000 trees. The website for more information is www.rootfortrees.ca.

TRANSGENDER

at birth grow up to be women. But some people's gender identity – their innate knowledge of who they are –is different from what was initially expected when they were born. Most of these people describe themselves as transgender.”

One of the landmark cases in the Philippines about the gender issue is Silverio v. Republic G.R. No. 174689.

On November 26, 2002, In Regional Trial Court Manila, Branch 8, Silverion filed a petition to change his first name “Rommel Jacinto” to “Mely” and his sex from male to female in his birth certificate for the reason that he underwent sex reassignment and transitioned himself to woman.

On Learning about Natural Areas in The City

1. North Saskatchewan River Valley Conservation Society: The North Saskatchewan River Valley Conservation Society is the voice of Edmonton’s river valley and those seeking to preserve it for future generations. They have volunteer opportunities and projects where they help advocate for the preservation of the River Valley, and a newsletter anyone can subscribe to. Their Facebook page is: www.facebook. com/NSRVCS/ and the website is www.edmontonrivervalley.org.

2. City of Edmonton Page on Natural Areas and Urban Diversity: This centralized website is a useful resource for those interested in learning about the city’s current activities to protect the natural areas in the city, from the plants, the landscape, water and animals. The link is: https://www. edmonton.ca/city_government/ environmental_stewardship/naturalareas

On Weeds, Invasive Plants, and Plant Alternatives

1. Invasive Species, A Guide for Alberta: This The website is a comprehensive list of different species of plants and fungi to watch out for. When these

plants or fungi are in large numbers, they can cause harm towards native plants in our area. The same goes with animals that don’t belong in a natural habitat. The weblink is: www.abinvasives.ca

2. Noxious Weeds, City of Edmonton Resource: This dedicated webpage has resources that explain why managing and limiting weeds is important. There are mechanisms to report the infestation of weeds in both private and public property, as well as tips on making sure that you don’t unintentionally spread seeds from weeds while enjoying the outdoors. The weblink is: www. Edmonton.ca/weeds

3. Edmonton Native Plant Society: This

from page 22

group is passionate about identifying different plant species spotted all over the city. They have a webpage as well as a very active Facebook page where enthusiastic members post photos and have meaningful discussions. The weblink is: https:// www.edmontonnativeplantsociety.ca/. While this is no way an exhaustive list, the goal is to encourage seeking out information and assistance for any type of challenge, no matter how big or small, how common or not. For any readers who are not directly served by the area where the outlined programs are listed, it is likely that equivalents are available by searching the topic and adding the name of your location.

by profession and Apprentice at Atty. Romeo Sese Law office.

Societal changes in culture are insuperable. The government as well as the legislative body need to be susceptible in creating mandates, laws, special orders , codes and jurisprudence in the phenomenal generations.

One of the vulnerable issues of this generation is the issue of sexuality which they usually convey is the “Transgender”.

The National Center for Transgender Equality says that “Transgender people are people whose gender identity is different from the gender they were thought to be at birth. ‘Trans’ is often used as shorthand for transgender. When we're born, a doctor usually says that we're male or female based on what our bodies look like. Most people who were labeled male at birth turn out to actually identify as men, and most people who were labeled female

In June 2003, the trial court ruled in favor of Silverio for the following reasons: His body has qualities of female physique, no harm will happen to the Republic, and affirming his petition will make their side happy. However, in August 2003, the Republic, through the Office of the Solicitor General, filed a petition for certiorari in the Court of Appeals, alleging that there is no law allowing a change of sex in birth certificate by reason of sex alteration. In February 2006, the Court of Appeal ruled in favor of the Republic, reversing the trial court’s decision and denied the application for reconsideration.

The issue is whether or not the change in name and sex in birth certificate is allowed by reason of sex reassignment.

There is no law that allows change of first name and sex on grounds of sex reassignment. The Petition for reconsideration is DENIED. The Supreme Court upheld the ruling of the Court of Appeals. The laws mentioned provides grounds for change of the

first name but change due to sex reassignment was not implied. It’s not in the court’s jurisdiction to enact a new basis. Section 5 of Act 3753 (Civil Register Law) provides the immutable way to determine the sex of a person, that is, visually examining the genitals of the infant at birth. In addition, the Supreme Court disagrees with the “no harm” reasoning used by the trial court. Affirming Silverio’s petition will actually destroy the nation and produce serious consequences, serving as a “tip of the spear” and bringing in more elements that will destroy the morals guarded by the Constitution, such as the sanctity of marriage and family. In foresight, the Court cites future problems, “Should transgenders be then allowed to officially marry in the country?” “Could this be considered a rampant sacrilege against the conscience of the people?”

“Will those that performed sex reassignments also avail women's rights under the law?” (lexrex.ph)

The National Center for Transgender Equality was founded in 2003 by transgender activists who recognized the urgent need for policy change to advance transgender equality. With a committed board of directors, a volunteer staff of one, and donated office space, we set out to accomplish what no one had yet done: provide a powerful transgender advocacy presence in Washington, DC. Moreover, this is the support system for Transgender people experiencing different issues.

The human perspective on sexuality or transgender might vary. However, let us continue to show humanity regardless of gender predispositions.

that allows one to be a champion, uphold the values we all aim for, and is the countermeasure for the traits of ‘crab mentality’ (marked by jealousy, envy, cynicism), ‘ningaskugon’ (half-hearted effort), ‘mañana habit’ (procrastination), indifference, division and mistrust, that permeates our community.

Some people may say about EPIC, “What’s in it for me?” or “What do I get in return?”. Well, the answers to these questions have so many levels. How do you feel when watching an international event, like the Olympics, and you see the Philippine flag hoisted up? Or when you’re in a different country, and you see the country flag?

Imagine and relive that feeling of pride and belonging. In Edmonton, there are a number of cultural centres: the Polish Canadian Cultural Centre; Sejong Multicultural Centre; Edmonton Korean Community Centre; Ukrainian Cultural Centre; La Cite Francophone; Edmonton Chinatown MultiCultural Centre; Portuguese Cultural Centre; Italian Cultural Centre; Slovenian Canadian Cultural Centre; HellenicCanadian Community of Edmonton & Region; German-Canadian Cultural Centre; Dutch Canadian Centre; Edmonton Japanese Community Association; Edmonton Tamil Cultural Centre; Serbian Canadian Cultural Society, to name a few.

With Filipinos as the third largest growing cultural group, with a long history in Alberta and contributions in the sectors of education, health, business, hospitality, arts and not-forprofit sectors, is it not paramount to have a community hub that reflects our values and heritage?

What does EPIC offer? The building has a banquet hall that is being transformed from a Celtic Hall to a Philippine Hall - a place that is

available for bookings, the revenue of which will be used to cover current operational costs and seed money for the long term plan of purchasing and building a Philippine facility. The same for the 2nd floor rooms with a smaller function room and offices. It is a hub for Filipino service providers - maintaining a list of accredited businesses for events rentals, i.e. cleaning services, photographers, videographers, emcees, performers, custom cakes, make-up artists, among others. With EPIC partner Umbrella Kitchen, there are two commercial kitchens available for booking, for home-based businesses, and a bistro for pop-up restaurants and dining, and an additional concert venue to the Hall. With the large parking area, outdoor events and celebrations are in the works. Further to venue rentals, members enjoy special perks and promotions in participating businesses. As a business owner, there is great advantage to be included in that list - both as a marketing opportunity and enhancing the corporate image.

Many years ago, we stressed the magnitude of work in establishing a centre. Three years after its launch, we remarkably have found a centre. The focus now is the ability to sustain it. And here, we invoke a continuous bayanihan spirit and effort for EPIC. Be a member, donor, sponsor, volunteer and client of EPIC. We have waited and worked hard for this for so long. This is our chance and our time, we have to make it count.

Note: The Edmonton Philippine International Centre is located at 10104 32 Avenue NW, Edmonton. For more information on how to get involved, visit epicalberta.com

To comment on this article, go to https://www.philippineartscouncil. com/blog. www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

YEG to the World!

Celebrating the Edmonton International Airport as a regional economic success.

• Gained four brand-new destinations

• Domestic: Moncton (YQM), Charlottetown (YYG)

• Transborder: Nashville (BNA), Tucson (TUS)

• Welcomed back / introduced more than 20 routes

• Offered more than 50 non-stop destinations

• Increased passenger volumes by 109%

• Moved 52,000 tonnes of cargo

From Mayor Sohi’s Desk

By Mayor Amarjeet Sohi

With Edmonton’s economy on the upswing, I want to highlight several businesses that are contributing to our region’s post-pandemic economic growth in significant ways. First up, our beloved airport!

Did you know that the Edmonton International Airport (also known as YEG) is Canada’s fifth-busiest airport? YEG itself was established in 1960, and is now operated by the Edmonton Regional Airports Authority (or Edmonton Airports), a community-based, not-for-profit corporation established in 1992. Our airport serves 8.2 million passengers per year, while offering non-stop service to more than 50 destinations around the world, and existing on the largest land mass of any major Canadian airport (7000 acres). With YEG acting as a reliable and preferred hub for international and domestic travel, cargo transport and more, it’s safe to say that this organization is an essential contributor to the Edmonton region’s goals of achieving long-term economic development, while fostering city vibrancy. I want to highlight some of the immense achievements of the Edmonton International Airport of the past year as we prepare for another successful year ahead.

In 2022, our airport:

• Served 5.85 million passengers

• Supported 97,496 total aircraft movements

• On the busiest day of the year (August 22, 2022), YEG saw 13,525 passengers departing from YEG, with a total of 29,660 passengers in the terminal

• Won TIACIA’s Corporate Sustainability Award and GHI Pride of Ground Handling’s Sustainability Award

• Became Canada’s first airport to integrate drone logistics into daily operations

• Sponsored over 42 events and activities in the Edmonton region

And that’s just a start! Much of Edmonton International Airport’s

work aligns with the goals of City Council and the City of Edmonton, like advancing sustainability, truth and reconciliation, human equity, and clean energy initiatives. Some of this work includes:

• Working to meet their Climate Pledge to be net-zero by 2040, including work with hydrogen, solar and innovative solutions

• Supporting the Airport City Sustainability Campus, a business area at YEG that has attracted more than $1.5 billion in investment over the past nine years

• Launching the successful trial of an all-electric deicing vehicle designed to reduce carbon emissions and maintain aircraft safety during cold weather

• Welcoming the Indigenous Interpretive and Retail Centre at YEG

• Signing an MOU with Indigenous Tourism Alberta to commit to furthering YEG’s work in reconciliation and economic development

• Partnering with Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, an internationally recognized program that provides Sunflower-branded items for passengers to wear to discreetly indicate to people around the wearer that they may need additional support, help or simply more time

• Adding a website tool called Max Access that alters the website display based on an individual’s need or disability

• Signing 11 hydrogen-focused partnership agreements with companies all around the world with the purpose of making Edmonton an international hydrogen hub and continuing our dedication to utilizing sustainable fuel sources

• Being home to the world’s largest solar farm in an airport

I have also had the opportunity to be a part of several exciting announcements at the Edmonton International Airport too, including the WestJet expansion, federal funding to expand and improve cargo, logistics and handling,, and the launch of Flair’s new nonstop flight to Nashville, Edmonton’s sister city.

This has been a monumental year for the Edmonton International Airport in terms of economic growth, and I know that this is just the beginning of an incredibly promising upwards trajectory for YEG. I look forward to continuing to support YEG as it expands outwards and upwards, and am grateful that Edmonton is home to an airport that is taking flight in more ways than one.

Mayor Amarjeet Sohi

Mayor Sohi and other business leaders celebrating the expansion of WestJet in February 2022

Gate 66 at the Edmonton International Airport Mayor Sohi and Minister Alghabra at the Edmonton International Airport (YEG) for a federal funding announcement

Law students compete in national hockey arbitration competition

Two TRU Law students got as far as the quarter finals of this year’s national Hockey Arbitration Competition of

JAN THE MAN’S NOTE

Canada (HACC) held in Toronto in mid-March. Bo Lewis and Januel Ibasco won the preliminary rounds and advanced to the quarter-finals on the second day, as they competed alongside teams from 16 law schools, including American law schools such as Rutgers University and the University of Denver.

Januel Cedrick Ibasco is a proud

Filipino-Canadian and is currently a student at the University of Alberta studying for a Bachelor of Arts in Recreation, Sport, and Tourism in the Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation. Sportsmanship is a big slice of his cake. He is highly-spirited when playing golf, volleyball, and basketball and loves reading, writing and volunteering at church. Jan looks forward to taking up law after his undergraduate degree.

Lewis and Ibasco were the third team in TRU Law history to advance to the quarter-final stage of the HACC. The event was hosted by the Sports and Entertainment Law Society at U of T’s Faculty of Law. HACC is a unique event that provides law students from across the country the opportunity to advance their written and oral advocacy skills within the specialized context of mock National Hockey League (NHL) salary arbitration proceedings.

Coaches for this year’s team were TRU alumni Tiana Reid, Dylan Taylor and Michael Geib.

Each team was assigned three actual NHL arbitration-eligible players from the summer of 2022 and represented either the player or hockey club in three preliminary

Let your fragrance do the talking

John 12:1-11

MAKE OUR DAILY GOSPEL READING

Like it and share it!

Fr.

Jhack Diaz

There are three points that I would like to share. First, the poor are the most generous people in the world. Nobody can beat the generosity of the poor because they give not the surpluses but the very best. They will offer their best and the “first class” of what they have. They are willing to give everything they have to serve their guests. “Mary took a litre of costly perfumed oil made from genuine aromatic nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and dried them with her hair.” Judas sees this as a waste, Jesus sees it as love. Friends, when we give our everything to Jesus, it will not be wasted because everything belongs to Jesus.

rounds of arbitration hearings. The three players selected for this year’s competition were Arizona Coyotes forward Lawson Crouse, Edmonton Oilers forward Kailer Yamamoto and Anaheim Ducks forward Isac Lundeström. TRU’s team represented the team side for the Arizona Coyotes regarding Lawson Crouse and the NHL Players Association for Kailer Yamamoto and Isac Lundeström. Teams then exchanged briefs and prepared oral arguments for a hearing in front of experienced arbitrators.

Team TRU received valuable feedback from an experienced panel of arbitrators and judges in the sports industry. Notable arbitrators at the competition included Brandon Pridham (assistant general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs), Amir Torabi (director of legal and business affairs and legal counsel for the Toronto Blue Jays), Rand Simon (NHLPA certified agent), and numerous partners at national law firms in downtown Toronto.

Throughout the competition, the arbitrators recognized the strength of TRU’s written submissions and

excellence in oral advocacy. The HACC provided the opportunity to gain insight into NHL salary arbitration,

sport and entertainment law, and the chance to meet professionals working in the NHL industry.

Second, I was deeply moved by this line in the gospel “The house was filled with the fragrance of the oil.” We need to have an experience of brokenness to let the smell of fragrance flows. We need to break ourselves before God so that in our brokenness God’s mercy and blessings will overflow. When we imitate Mary’s generosity and passionate love to Jesus the whole world will always remember the kindness we have done. When we have a genuine heart for the needy our kindness will never be forgotten. Even if you choose to give anonymously, your kindness will develop its own wings to remind the world to spread your splendid example. Acts of kindness is like a perfume that people can smell. Charity and goodness are like a perfume. Let your fragrance do the talking.

Finally, let us be careful of the attitude of too much attachment to money. Friends, money is a horrible master. Never be a slave to money. Rather, be the master of your money. Judas was a very materialistic person. The gospel tells us that Judas was only after the money, not the poor. Friends, be watchful of people who are more interested in getting money for themselves than sharing it with those in need. The secret to a wealthy life is to love the poor. Like Jesus, let us empty ourselves to fill the needs of the less fortunate. Brethren, use money to help people. Avoid using people to earn more money.

Blessings, Fr. Jhack

Congratulations Jenna

Manuntag for opening a new Filipino owned Salon!

Welcome to Enclusiva Hair Studio!

My name is Jenna, owner and stylist of this independent suite at Citizen Salon Studios South. I am a stylist with five years’ experience and am incredibly passionate about all things hair! I have always known I wanted to become a hairstylist from a young age, but took a couple of detours along the way before I finally pursued my passion. I also have experience in finance and management, and believe that my journey and collective experience has led me to opening this studio!

I named my studio Enclusiva, because I want to provide a space where everyone feels welcome. I believe that getting your hair done is such an incredible treat for yourself, and I want to offer anyone who sits in my chair a relaxing and comfortable experience.

I specialize in hair and scalp health, and custom cuts, colors, and styles to suit your individual needs and lifestyle. I am an “embrace what you have” kind of gal, and I want to help everyone fall in love with their own natural hair! I will always strive to help you reach your hair goals, while maintaining the integrity of your hair, and sharing all my tips and tricks so you can easily manage your style at home. What I love about the industry is that every head of hair is unique, and there are always new trends coming along, so there are countless opportunities to continue my education, and grow alongside the industry!

Give me a follow on Instagram @ hairbyjennamarie.yeg I will try my best to stay current on social media, but anyone who knows me knows I don’t love to spend a lot of time on my phone when I don’t have to. Instead, when I’m not behind the chair, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, reading, cooking,

and more importantly eating, as well as my most recent obsession- golf! So even though I may not always show up online, I promise to always be 100% present during your visit!

Book online now! I can’t wait to have you in my chair, and create something together that’s Be-You-tiful!

From left to right: Bo Lewis and Januel Ibasco

Januel Cedrick Ibasco

HOROSCOPE

You’ll feel particularly fired up as the month kicks off, dear Ram, with the sun, Chiron, Jupiter, and Mercury all traveling through your sign. These vibes are perfect for taking the initiative where it matters most, prioritizing goals, and using your voice in an effort to expand your presence within personal and professional ambitions. However, you’ll need tangible evidence to support your mission beginning when Mercury migrates into Taurus on April 3, putting a “seeing is believing” energy in the air. Just be sure to take a timeout for self-care and romance when the Libra full moon activates your solar seventh house on the fifth.

You might feel more irritable than normal this month, dear Taurus, as Aries season pushes you to internally explore some deep and perhaps uncomfortable topics. Your mood is likely to fluctuate as you sort out your psyche, making it important that you keep tabs on your disposition. Should you find yourself feeling more snappy and irritable than usual, try to accept accountability and apologize, especially if someone else points out these behaviors.

Your social responsibilities will energize you this month, dear Gemini, as Aries season pushes you to rub elbows, shake hands, and engage with your community. However, the stars will also ask that you take plenty of time to recharge and clear your head between engagements, especially once Mercury enters Taurus and the sector of your chart that governs introspection on April 3.

Aries season is all about getting your affairs in order, dear Cancer, and with four celestial bodies moving through the sign of the Ram, you’ll be working overtime to stay on track and pursue success. Luckily, you’ll have something concrete to show for your effort once Mercury enters Taurus on April 3, a planetary placement that’s also poised to bring new contacts your way. Financial opportunities could also come to fruition, though you’ll need to rely on your smarts in order to see them through.

Opportunities and experiences you’ve been wishing for might suddenly land in your lap this month, dear Leo, as Aries season surrounds you with luck and cosmic sparkle. Be sure to work with positive mantras and radical self-love on April 5, working with the harmonious energy of the Libra full moon. Look for ways to expand your beliefs when the sun aligns with Jupiter on the eleventh, asking you to go beyond what you know in order to understand the world and yourself with a newfound sense of clarity.

You’ll be eager to move forward with your life this month, dear Virgo, as Aries season pushes each and every one of us toward new beginnings. However, it will be difficult for you to get ahead if you can’t make peace with the past. Remember that true transformation is rooted in accountability and a willingness to let go of situations, people, or behaviors that might be holding you back from your true potential.

March 2023 Crossword's Solution

Flowers will bloom at your feet this month, dear Libra, as four celestial bodies move through Aries and the sector of your chart that governs love. Lean in to the sweet yet sexy energy at play, allowing your passions and heart to guide you. Be mindful of who you give your focus to once Mercury enters Taurus on April 3, bringing depth and intensity to your conversations. While these vibes are perfect for nurturing healthy bonds, you could sign yourself up for some grief if you invest in the wrong people.

Your head might spin with the amount of busy on your plate, dear Scorpio, because Aries season brings a surge of energy to your solar sixth house. This cosmic climate is all about moving quickly and efficiently, especially when it comes to all those small details that add up to the big picture. Be sure to support yourself through healthy living, taking special care to clock eight hours of sleep each night, eat well, and hydrate daily. Luckily, your mind will feel grounded and balanced as Mercury migrates into Taurus on April 3, blessing you with a sense of control and gratitude.

Your bravery and boldness will be even more pronounced than usual, dear Sagittarius, because Aries season lights a fire in the sector of your chart that governs ego, selfexpression, and fun! These vibes are all about standing strong in your resolve, though you’ll want to be mindful that you don’t burn others in the process, especially during the Libra full moon on April 5. On the one hand, this lunation can help expose you to new connections and friendships. While on the other, your competitive side could cause you to burn down bridges before they even have a chance to form.

Send some love to your inner child this month, dear Capricorn, because Aries season illuminates your solar fourth house. These vibes are perfect for indulging in activities that you loved in your youth or finally signing up for those art classes you always dreamed of pursuing. That’s right, second chances can help you find your new beginning, so don’t be afraid to follow your creative instincts. These sentiments will be accentuated once Mercury migrates into Taurus on April 3, activating the sector of your chart that governs self-expression.

Your attention is a hot commodity right now, dear Aquarius, because four celestial bodies move through fiery Aries and the sector of your chart that governs communication. You can expect to see an increase in emails, text messages, and DMs, though you’ll want to pace yourself as the social butterfly that lives within spreads its wings. The impulsive nature of this cosmic climate could cause you to become distracted or overstimulated more easily than usual, and it will be important that you check in with your body and breath throughout each day if you’re to avoid feeling stressed.

Money will land quickly in your hands while also burning a hole in your pocket this month, dear Pisces, as Aries season gasses up the sector of your chart that governs financial security. While these vibes will certainly encourage the occasional splurge, small impulse buys could quickly add up to one big bill, so be sure to check in with your budget at the start of each week. Fortunately, your good sense gains support from the stars when sharp-minded Mercury enters grounded Taurus on April 3.

March 2023 Issue Sudoku's Solution

ACROSS

1. Kind

5. Plaything

8. Fizzy beverage

12. Locks

13. Lode yield 14. Guinness of "Star Wars" 15. Green gems

Copyright @ www.boatloadpuzzles.com

DOWN

1. "Of ____ I Sing"

2. Sweet potatoes 3. Desserts 4. Misjudge 5. Put up with 6. Decree 7. Sure!

Sudoku Puzzles are games of patience, numbers and genius! The satisfaction of solving a challenging Sudoku Puzzle is one of the greatest accomplishments any sudoku game player can experience. The rules are simple, fill in the blanks so that each row, each column, and each of the nine 3x3 grids contain one instance of each of the numbers 1 through 9.

Here is the puzzle. Good luck!

CELEBRATIONS OF LIFE: Moving Forward

Birthdays are everyone’s most cherished moment as this is when we celebrate the covenant between life and its Giver. Nobody is born alone. There are two causes of life that we have to acknowledge, appreciate, and recognize. The first is the Ultimate Cause or Giver, our God and the second are the proximate causes, our parents. Now, He who doesn’t acknowledge, appreciate, and recognize his or her life is also rejecting its Causes. Lucky are these individuals who truly celebrate life with significant people around them. May you all continue to share the gift of life with others. Active co-existence follows essence.

AFJ publisher turns 75

AFJ publisher Jun Angeles celebrated his 75th birthday with family and friends at Palabok House, March 17. The event was co-celebrated also with AFJ manager Mel Angeles, editor Lito Velasco, Andy Chua and Rolan Latorre, who share the same birth month. (Photos by Moses Billacura)

Better late than never

Congratulations Cecil Bengzon Ilagan on your recent birthday celebration at the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald last February 26, 2023. Cecil, with husband Lex and friends enjoyed the morning with a breakfast brunch. AFJ wishes you more celebrations in the years to come.

THE BASEMENT

BAR: At Nico and

Au De Jesus’ Residence

Nico (5th from left), one of the March birthday celebrants and owner of Manila Grill and Restaurant usually gathers his friends in this place to share blessings, delicious foods they never served in the market, talk about substantial ideas, and enjoy music.

Nico’s friends

Nathan Ip and publisher Jun Angeles, the celebrant.

L-R: AFJ publisher Jose “Jun” Angeles, EIC Lito Velasco, DJ Rolan Latorre, Andy Chua - The March celebrants

L-R: Lydia Jimenez (Palabok House owner), Malou Delera Filasol, Jencet Montano, celebrant Jun Angeles, Ana Gutierez De Leon (owner of Poke & More), Amelia Ligasan, Helen D. Cue-Regier

Berna Angeles Celebrates 75th Birthday

Congratulations, Berna for reaching the milestone of your 75th birthday in the month of March. A celebration party was held on March 26, 2023 at Good Buddy restaurant, where Berna was surrounded with family, relatives and friends.

Happy Birthday Bro. Danny Dolores

AFJ assoc. editor’s birthday

April “Lianne” Angeles, (in black at the center) AFJ’s Associate Editor, hosted a simple celebration on her birthday last April 14, 2023 in the family’s abode. She was surrounded and lavishly blessed by the loving presence of her family, relatives, and precious friends.

More to come!

Happy 30th Birthday to Berna Bangit who celebrated her birthday with Family, Friends & Colleagues at Manila Grill Westend. Berna expressed gratitude to everyone who came by to celebrate with her, and thanked Manila Grill for the delicious food, and ForEverLove Event Decoration & Rentals by Evergreen Carlos Buenviaje (780-952-5987) for the aesthetically decorated hall.

Best wishes on your birthday, Bro Danny! God Bless.

With buddies at Rivercree Resort Tap 25.

L-R: Baby Angeles-de los Santos, Alma Angeles and Noel Angeles (celebrant’s parents), Lianne Angeles, AFJ publisher Jose “Jun” Angeles, Felix de los Santos, Arve Angeles and wife Kareen Cables, DJ Rolan Latorre, Jorge Polecina.

L-R: Berna Angeles, Baby Angeles-de los Santos, Felix de los Santos, Jose “Jun” Angeles, Pol Angeles, Lianne Angeles, Alma Angeles, Noel Angeles, Arve Angeles, Kareen Cables, Joey Angeles and Jonah Angeles.