Alberta Filipino Journal - December 2020 Issue

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Jesus is mightier than the virus!

An Interview with Joseph Duenas

P24

DECEMBER 2020 • Volume 13, Number 12

AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

Sean Garrity and “I Propose We Never See Each Other Again After Tonight” P22

FIRST RECIPIENT OF COVID-19 VACCINE IN ONTARIO IS A FILIPINA

P21, 24 ► Retired general Rick Hillier, head of Ontario's vaccine task force, calls the arrival of the COVID-19 vaccine 'an incredible day.' 'We're on the way out of the abyss,' he said. (Photo Credit to the rightful owner)

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Business

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL DECEMBER 2020

THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

DECEMBER 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

News | Business

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Heavenly Sign: The Star of BETHLEHEM “The Great Conjunction of Jupiter & Saturn”

by Hermo Toribio Reyes Pagtakhan

"RELIVING & CELEBRATING THE SPECTACULAR FIRST CHRISTMAS THIS DECEMBER, 2020!"

Covid19 MESSAGE to HUMANITY: RESET LIFE Itself: SPIRITUALLY, PHYSICALLY, MENTALLY, EMOTIONALLY & FINANCIALLY! Jupiter and Saturn will ALIGN in the Night Sky on DECEMBER 21, 2020. It'll be the CLOSEST they've appeared in 800 Years. So, would they be the “Guiding Star” for Christmas 2020?

According to Christian tradition, the Star of Bethlehem, was followed by the 3 Magi —Bithisarea, Melichior, and Gathaspa— to reach the birthplace of Jesus Christ.

During this Christmas season, humanity will be able to enjoy an astronomical event that has not happened in 800 years: the alignment of the planets Jupiter and Saturn, better known as the Star of Bethlehem, which according to Christian tradition was followed to reach the birthplace of Jesus Christ.

This is a rare phenomenon, with a special meaning in this Christmas season, and that according to astronomical studies has not occurred since March 4, 1226, that is, since the Middle Ages.

This natural phenomenon occurs when the planets Jupiter and Saturn come together, so at first glance it will appear as if it were a double planet, according to Rice University (Texas) astronomer Patrick Hartigan.

will receive will last all year as you look to God Yes, Christmas this year 2020 can actually be more like THE FIRST CHRISTMAS! for all your needs to be met.

Jesus Is The Reason For The Season! Rejoice! continued on page 8 ►

When and where will the Star of Bethlehem be seen?

The symbolic Christmas Star will be visible from December 16 to 21, and can be observed anywhere in the world, although in better conditions in areas near the equator.

The phenomenon can be seen one hour after sunset.

The astronomer Patrick Hartigan says that the event will be repeated until March 15, 2080 and then it will not happen again until after 2,400, so it would be worth taking advantage of the opportunity and not letting it go.

(The Yucatan Times Newsroom) https://www.theyucatantimes. com/.../star-of-bethlehem.../... https://www.businessinsider.com/ see-jupiter-and-saturn... https://www.google.com/.../jupitersaturn-double-planet.../ The early part of 2020 has lots of revelations. It is never too late to be good. Let’s listen to WHAT God WANTS to TELL us.

Look at Christmas in a new way this year. This is the year to invite Jesus into your heart. CHRISTMAS is not about opening our "Presents".

IT IS ABOUT OPENING OUR HEARTS TO CHRIST's LOVE. In the FIRST CHRISTMAS, there was NO Room for them at the Inn. This Time around let's OPEN the Rooms in our Hearts to CHRIST's Love.

You will then have a "Merry Christmas." The joy and peace you All photos and articles available online. Follow us

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AFJ Family

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL DECEMBER 2020

THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

Editor’s Corner | Business

DECEMBER 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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CHRISTMAS: Much of Christ’s Love to Match EDITOR’S CORNER Lito Mendoza Velasco

E

veryday is a Christmas. For the fact that the gift of life has been showered upon us, then, the reciprocity of love should be our daily habit. Over and above.

Everyday is a blessing.

Christmas in our hearts. The more we love, the more we realize how much we need to love. The antithesis is: The more we hate, the more we realize how much we need to hate. Which one is dominant in your heart? If the message of Christmas is love, then why do we have to hate?

Have yourself a Merry Little Christmas. Look, we are not asked to have a grand reunion or a social gathering in order to feel the joy of the Little Child’s birth. Christmas 2020 has truly taught us to simply celebrate and embrace the beauty of life with equanimity and merely stay with our loved ones who truly belong under the same roof.

Conquering the virus through Jesus. As defenders of faith, our primordial responsibility is to believe that Jesus is Mightier than the virus.

We should not forget that the main celebrant during this Holy Season is none other than our Lord Jesus Christ.

Hence, Christmas Day is His day. It is not the Corona Virus-19 Vaccine

Day that is followed by Boxing Day. Aside from that, we can also conquer the virus by conquering our ways that are so vicious. ******* GOOD AFJ STUFF: Goodbye 2020; Good vibes 2021!

Anything that is not worth remembering, something that hurts or has stolen our self-worth and confidence should be buried in oblivion. The opposite, the positive feelings that you enjoy, must always be reminisced or recollected. AFJ has been highlighting events that would have also been both the sinistral and the dextral of the community and perhaps, become the integral core of our values.

LOOKING BACK: The past cannot be changed, but, it can always be a good fountain of wisdom. A good review is always the foundation of a better point of view. From January 2020, we have encountered challenges that have also molded and brought us to December of 2020. To wit, AFJ THEMES, HEADLINES, AND EDITORIALS: January 2020 Theme: Never stop sharing the love abundantly in 2020.

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Headline: TAAL: Another Test for Filipino’s resilience.

Editorial: Fine is not fine!

February 2020 Theme: Love fulfills Headline: CORONA VIRUS ALERT IN CANADA: Prevention is better than cure!

Editorial: WHY? March 2020 Theme: He who is in good faith is away from a bad fate.

Headline: GLOBAL PANDEMIC: Corona Virus spreads increasingly worldwide.

Editorial: The principle of appropriation.

April 2020 Theme: Live and let live amidst the morbid Covid.

Headline: COVID-19 Reignites the Pinoy Bayanihan Spirit Editorial: AFJ amidst this morbid Covid.

May 2020 Theme: Genuine love is tested by crises.

Headline: Forming a Covid-19 Coalition, Kawanggawa June 2020 Theme: Life itself matters.

Headline: GRANDE PRAIRE: The Philippine Flag waves in the sky.

Editorial: Life itself matters.

July 2020 Theme: It is better to be coordinated rather than governed.

Editorial: Suggested Organizational Approach or Technique.

August 2020 Theme: Be inspired rather than required.

Headline: Operate Home-Based Business Responsibly.

Editorial: Be inspired rather than required.

September 2020 Theme: Resilience is the requisite for subsistence.

Headline: Another Shining Star of Filipino Descent: Miss Universe Canada 2020 Delegate

October 2020 Theme: Where the family is, there our heart is.

Headline: Family Reunification: A Game of Luck?

Editorial: Hoping is coping.

November 2020 Theme: Rice is worthless in the world of emptiness.

Headline: ?

Editorial: It ain’t over until it’s over.

December 2020 Theme: Jesus is Mightier than the virus.

Headline: One of the first recipient of Covid-19 Virus in Ontario is a Filipina Editorial: CHRISTMAS: Much of Christ’s Love to match, Good AFJ STUFF: Goodbye 2020, Good vibes 2021.

LOOKING AHEAD: The Future is still up to us!

An ambition without knowledge is like a boat on dry land. Thus, the right question should be asked - The WHY? For instance, why do I have to be educated? Why do I have to go abroad? Why do I wear a mask? By answering these questions, you will be clarified by your intention or goal.

The right mind, therefore, shall be set.

Mind is analogous to a clean engine.

It generates power!

As 2020 is coming to an end, there is a better thing to hope for. In 2021, everything that we need should be won! We, through the mighty power of Jesus, will be victorious over the virus!

SEE YOU AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL MY FRIENDS!

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Sports

SPORTS JOURNAL

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL DECEMBER 2020

No to sports budget cut, RISE UP Hoops App, alternatives to Pinoy basketball

T Moses Billacura mo.sports@gmail.com Moses Billacura was a sports correspondent for national newspapers in the Philippines since 1992 and served as sports editor and columnist for a community paper before moving to Canada in 2010. He loves photography, manages pinoyedmontonnews.com and cheers for the Edmonton Oilers.

he Edmonton Sport Council tweeted about the City of Edmonton’s plan to “Mothball Scona and Eastglen indoor pools, Oliver outdoor pool, and Oliver and Tipton arenas” in order to reduce the operating budget by $1.2 million.

The tweet drew a reaction from Councilor Mike Nickel who opposed the cut saying in his tweet that the better solution is to look at middle management reductions ($75m in savings), tightening consulting ($130m annual budget), and cancelling the mayor’s “fancy City Hall upgrades” ($12m for next year).

Bayani Alcantara, who is president

of the Philippine Business Society of Alberta, in a comment posted that “It’s a no brainer that Mike Nickel’s proposal is better. Some people now know that the mayor has a fancy upgrade budget of $12M.” In contrast, Anna Sumalinog, a former youth leader back home, said “Mike Nickel is an example of traditional politicians taking opportunity over every weakness he sees in the current administration.

His proposal sounds good but on the bigger and deeper picture, it is a weightless argument. If you are a true public servant, you must lean to co-exist with your colleagues. He should work his own way to better

serve his constituents instead of nitpicking issues.”

The good news, as of this writing, is that the plan to mothball the sports facilities is not going to happen after The Edmonton Journal reported on Dec.10 that the City Council unanimously voted, Dec.9, to reinstate the $1.2 million in the 2021 operating budget to keep those sports facilities open.

The tweet by the Edmonton Sport Council has drawn some reactions and Councilor Nickel offered a better solution and people in the sports community now know that there are City Hall expenditures that can be possibly cut, instead of

Ginebra reigns as bubble king, ends long drought in all-Filipino tourney

SMART Clark Giga City -- Barangay Ginebra wrote finish to the twomonth PBA bubble play Wednesday night, taking the 2020 Philippine Cup crown in warding off the injurydecimated but fierce-fighting TNT

Tropang Giga, 82-78, at the Smart 5G-powered AUF Sports Center.

Japeth Aguilar matched his career-high (32 points), Stanley Pringle came through with a crucial binge in the payoff period while LA

Tenorio once again had his brilliance in the crunch as the Kings ended a 13-year drought in the league's most prestigious tourney.

Pushed hard by their gritty foes practically all night, the Kings

were not to be denied in the end, with Pringle, Aguilar and Tenorio combining to seal the deal for the Ginebra franchise.

The Kings scored a twin-kill in 2020 as they captured the bubble glory in a follow-up to their Governors' Cup title run completed in January.

It's the first back-to-back for the franchise after their winning the 2004 Fiesta Conference and the succeeding Philippine Cup. With his crucial playmaking in their victories in Games 1, 4 and 5, Tenorio earned the PBA Press Corps Honda Finals MVP award.

"Championship lang ang wish ko kay God, binigyan pa ako ng bonus," said Tenorio.

"When this thing started, LA was in the hospital, we still don't have Japeth and Greg (Slaughter) was out.

We don't have much expectation and we're saying 'can we make the playoffs?'" said Ginebra coach Tim Cone.

budget cuts on sports.

My take on this, is that if possible, the budget for City of Edmonton sports should not be cut; instead, it should be increased. What’s $1.2m compared to the tweeted “fancy City Hall upgrades ($12m for next year)”? Right? *** I had the opportunity to cover the final game of the Servus-St. Albert Ballers Club last October and it was really fun watching the championship.

The championship was supposed to be played last March but the Covid-19 pandemic forced the continued on page 7 ►

"But credit to our guys. They just kept on working, working and working, and found a way to win it. I'm proud of them," said Cone, the bemedaled coach winning a first all-Filipino crown with Ginebra.

It was the 13th overall for the Ginebra franchise and 23rd in all for Cone.

Cone a nd his troops acknowledged the proud stand of the Tropang Giga who wouldn't give up even when the chips were down, especially with the sidelining of key stalwarts Bobby Ray Parks and Jayson Castro.

But in a Game 5 grind-out, the Kings proved too much, thus, closing out the series at 4-1. (SB) The Scores: GINEBRA 82 - Aguilar 32, Pringle 13, Tenorio 10, Dillinger 8, Thompson 6, Mariano 5, Devance 2, Caperal 3, Chan 3, Tolentino 0.

TNT 78 - Pogoy 23, Erram 18, Enciso 17, Rosario 12, De Leon 6, Vosotros 2, Washington 0, Montalbo 0, Reyes 0, Carey 0.

Quarters: 19-19; 38-36; 55-56; 82-78.

PSC chief calls for amendment to combat sports bill MANILA – Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman William Ramirez said on Friday that he prefers that the controversial Congress bill seeking to ban minors from competing in combat sports be amended instead of fully junking it.

"Hindi mali yung banning. Yun lang, sabi ko, 'I-amend na lang yun,' (The banning itself is not wrong. It is just that I told them, 'Just amend it instead')" Ramirez said in an online press conference.

However, he admitted that the said bill was a "wake-up call" within the agency, indicating that they have been lax regarding sanctions among amateur sports officials.

He was present during the first hearing about House Bill 1526, or "An Act Banning Minors from Full-Contact Competitive Sports" authored by Reps. Alfredo Garbin and Elizaldy Co of Ako Bicol Party List.

The said bill met serious opposition from 13 national sports associations (NSA's) which cater to combat sports, saying that the bill could hamper grassroots development among future martial artists.

"We are supposed to be preparing for the Olympics, the largest sporting event for the world, pero iisipin pa natin na may bill na aalisin yung mga (but we are still thinking that there is a bill that would take out) grassroot movements," Wrestling Association of the Philippines president and Universal Reality Combat Championship founder Alvin Aguilar said on Thursday during the Usapang Sports forum by the Tabloid Organization in Philippine Sports.

"We are really opposing this proposal. But we can work hand in hand to work on this. Sana makapag-usap ang lahat at makuha ang aming mga opinion tungkol

dito. Pare-pareho tayong ang gusto ay ang safety ng mga bata (I wish everyone will talk to use and get our opinion about it. We all want safety for the children)," added Karate Pilipinas president Richard Lim. However, contrary to what Aguilar said, Ramirez claimed that most of the combat sports NSA's do not have a "genuine grassroots program".

"You cannot call it a grassroots sports program kung wala kang (if you do not have a) collaboration with the PSC, DepEd (Department of Education), DILG (Department of the Interior and Local Government), CHED (Commission on Higher Education), armed forces, DOH (Department of Health), etc.," he added, citing that one must need manpower, expertise, and a huge sum of money.

He then insisted that what these NSA's are doing are minor programs within a certain community. (PNA)

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THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

Education | Sports

DECEMBER 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Engineers Canada​ ENGINEER IN ACTION

Mervin Cereno, P. Eng. mmcereno@gmail.com Mervin Cereno is a Filipino immigrant in Canada. A FilipinoCanadian Engineer license to practice Engineering in Alberta.

He is employed in one of most sought Engineering Consulting Firm based in Edmonton as Structural Engineer that designs small to medium-rise commercial and multi-family buildings. He is a Volunteer and Advocates to help Filipino-Canadian Engineers to pursue their Professional Engineering License in Canada.

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

from page 6

SPORTS JOURNAL organizers to halt their games and follow the province’s health guidelines.

So, after waiting for seven months, Dominic Narbonita, one of the organizers, informed me that they will at last be playing the final game. It was some kind of a “S-SABC Bubble”, with only players, their coaches, and the organizing team allowed on the court. The fans had to go to the second floor and watch the games from a distance.

I told myself, this could be good news, that basketball is back in the Filipino community. Narbonita and his team, then scheduled another league for the first week of December but as you already know, stricter measures are now being implemented following the rise of Covid-19 cases. And they have to cancel the opening games.

Philippine Sports Association president Gary Perpetua, chief organizer of Edmonton’s biggest Filipino basketball league, said he has been receiving requests from players to resume the tournament in the summer but they decided to completely stop everything in March and have been monitoring the pandemic.

Perpetua made the right decision just to stop everything. “We don’t want to take the risk. Mahirap na,” said Gary, whose league, chiefly backed by Crosstown Auto Centre, has grown to more than 60 teams since they started 24 years ago.

Truth is, Filipino community members always look forward to a basketball tournament because of its fiesta-like atmosphere. Laging masaya kapag may larong basketball. You have to understand that basketball is the No.1 sport in the Philippines

E

ngineers Canada is the national body that works with Canada’s provincial and territorial engineering regulators to help develop national policies and guidelines for the Engineering profession. The Professional Licensing of Engineers in Canada is regulated by the Provincial Regulating Body.

Licensing is not performed by Engineers Canada. Each province or territory in Canada falls under the jurisdiction of one of Canada’s twelve engineering regulators. They are as follows: • Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia • Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA) • Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba • Engineers and Geoscientists New Brunswick • Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan (APEGS) • Engineers Nova Scotia • Engineers PEI • Engineers Yukon • Northwest Territories and Nunavut Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists (NAPEG)

and it’s no surprise that in major cities and towns in Alberta, there are basketball tournaments being organized. We just love basketball, thanks to the influence of the wellpublicized Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) and the National Basketball Association (NBA).

That reminds me of my longtime friends who would even beg their parents for money, just for them to rent those Betamax Tapes of NBA games. That’s how basketball crazy they were. Me? I’m not so crazy about basketball but I began to appreciate the sport because this is one big sport in the Philippines where poor kids who are good at it can have the opportunity to go to college on a basketball scholarship.

The sport is just so popular, that all schools, from elementary to university, have a basketball program as part of the Athletics Department.

Every basketeer in the Philippines dreams of becoming a professional player in the PBA and be part of the Millionaire’s Club.

I was grateful to be deeply involved in amateur basketball development back home, worked closely with basketball leaders for many years and witnessed college players improve their skills in the regular leagues that we organized, then we learn later on that they were recruited by top schools in Manila.

And on a final note, they eventually get drafted and played in the semiprofessional or professional league. *** That brings me back to coach Kelvin dela Pena, who has been training young basketball players through his RISE UP HOOPS program in Calgary.

Dela Pena, a former PBA player, is the son of Manoy Ricardo dela Pena, who years ago played for San Miguel in the PBA, and Manang Susan Chicote, who comes from a

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• Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec (OIQ) • Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Newfoundland and Labrador (PEGNL) • Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO) For Internationally Educated Engineers (IEE), the most important first step in applying is to determine where you would like to work and then contact the regulator there to learn more about their specific application process.

When applying, it is best to start as soon as possible, because it can take some time for a regulator to assess your qualifications after receiving all of your required documents.

In some cases, a regulator may require you to take further steps, such as writing an examination or obtaining more education or experience.

Mobility across Canada Engineers require a licence in each province or territory where they intend to practice. The Canadian Free Trade Agreement states that engineers licensed in one province or territory “have to be recognized

town where my loving BillacuraReambonanza relatives live.

I’ve been encouraging PSA president Perpetua that if the PSA can spot young and talented basketeers, they should bring him to coach Kelvin.

That way, his skills can be further improved and prepare him better for the professional league or collegiate tournaments in the Philippines, should they be recruited.

We would love to see a FilipinoAlbertan again in the PBA and follow the footsteps of coach Kelvin.

By the way, Coach K’s RISE UP HOOPS app will be launched sometime this month. The app’s first program will be the Jump Program Bodyweight, which he said in his FB post, will be a “perfect time to attack during the pandemic”.

This is one exciting development for the players, specially those who are willing to have the proper conditioning program for the sport.

In a very competitive sport, a wellprepared and well-conditioned athlete can perform to a maximum when a well-crafted program is designed for him.

And I always believe that Coach K can deliver that based on his experience, his training, his knowledge and passion for the sport of basketball. *** It’s frustrating, depressing sometimes, to even think that sports activities have taken a big toll because of this pandemic, especially Pinoy basketball.

We even have Filipino billiards players who regularly compete in tournaments organized by Top Shots Billiards & Ping Pong in Mill Woods, however, tournament director Chris Atienza confirmed that the sports facility will be closed for now because of the new restrictions.

Fortunately, there are other

as qualified to work by a regulatory body in another province or territory which regulates that occupation, without having to go through significant additional training, work experience, examination or assessment, unless an exception has been posted.” This is important for labour mobility and to ensure that engineering skills and knowledge are available throughout the country.

Engineering Regulators are responsible for licensing engineers in each province and territory. This applies to anyone looking to practice, including engineering graduates, internationally trained engineers applying for a license in Canada for the first time, and engineers licensed in one province or territory who wish to apply for a license in another province or territory.

Agreements on International Mobility Engineers Canada is the Canadian signatory to several professional engineering agreements which facilitate mobility by enhancing Canadian engineers’ ability to work abroad and international engineers’ licensure in Canada.

These agreements are designed to protect the public and maintain the good reputation of the engineering

recreational activities that the Filipino sports community can take part in.

Watch out for Coach K’s RISE UP Hoops app, join a Pinoy biking club by reaching out to Evan Estigoy of Goldenbucks Bakeshop, or Chris Ayson of WeFix Auto who is active with the Edmonton Pinoy DirtBikers.

I notice our Kababayans are into winter sports these days. Good for them that they can brave the cold, like Kris Salumbides of Medicus Family Health Clinic, who, with his sons, are into snowboarding. Mortgage broker Ryan Paluca and his family are much into tobogganing.

Lovely couple Michael and Janet Lavarez have been doing their daily workouts from the comfort of their home, with all those lifting and dance moves.

Walang basketball or volleyball eh, kaya home exercises muna.

I prefer 45-minute Yoga for Strength with Kristy posted by Manulife on FB as part of its #StayHealthy fitness series. The other video is David’s Garage Grind, a 30-minute full body workout for all levels.

It’s true that we dearly miss basketball, our No.1 sport, but what can we do? This Covid-19 pandemic is not yet going away! Grrrr.

We hope that all members of the sports community will soon

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profession through effective regulation and expeditious licensure between participating countries.

Engineers Canada has directly negotiated Mutual Recognitions Agreements (MRAs) with the following organizations: • Engineers Australia • France (Commission des Titres d’Ingénieur, ConseilNational des Ingénieurs et Scientifiques de France) • Hong Kong Institution of Engineers • Engineers Ireland • The Nevada State Board of Professional Engineers, United States • The Texas State Board of Professional Engineers, United States The MRAs are intended to provide licensed engineers from these bodies with an equivalent level of licensure in Canada and vice versa. Engineers Canada is not a licensing body, regulation and licensing processes vary with each different Province of Canada.

Substantial information is posted on the Engineers Canada website in order to begin the licensing process for your Province of choice so that you are able to practice Engineering.

Reference: https://engineerscanada.ca

receive a vaccine so that we won’t be afraid to gather again because we will be protected from Covid-19. *** Manny Arban and his friends have started a Virtual Dance Fitness using Zoom, so you can also join them. Simply check for any updates on Manny Arban’s FB page. They kicked off their fitness series too with Wowie de Guzman and Bennie Almonte.

If you have the time, join Manny and his friends! *** There are supposed to be Christmas parties organized by various Filipino sports organizations this month but this will not be possible this year due to this damn Covid-19 pandemic.

Our Christmas wish is that all members of the Pinoy sports community will remain healthy and safe during this challenging time.

Maligayang Pasko po sa lahat ng mga Kababayan nating manlalaro, mga volunteers, referees, team managers at mga team sponsors! *** For any sports updates, tips and announcements, especially if you have virtual sports events, let us know by sending an email to mocolumnist@ albertafilipinojournal.com.

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News Update From Alberta Government

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL DECEMBER 2020

Paghahanda para sa pamamahagi ng bakuna ng COVID-19 sa Alberta Handa ang gobyerno ng Alberta na tumanggap at ipamahagi ang bakuna sa COVID-19 at hanggang 435,000 na Albertans ang maaalok ng bakuna sa unang isang-kapat ng 2021.

Ang pagpaplano at paghahanda ay sapat na isinulong. Nasa pangunahing posisyon ang Alberta upang magpatupad ng isang yugtong programa ng immunisasyon sa sandaling ang mga bakuna ay maaring magagamit.

Para masuportahan ang nagpapatuloy na gawaing ito, ang pamahalaan ng Alberta ay humirang ng isang bagong COVID-19 Vaccine Task Force. Pinamumunuan ng Deputy Minister of Municipal Affairs, ang retiradong Lt.-Gen. Paul Wynnyk, ang COVID-19 Vaccine Task Force ay bubuo sa mga hakbang na nagawa na ng Alberta Health at Alberta Health Services upang maghanda para sa paghahatid ng bakuna.

"Handa na ang Alberta na maglabas ng bakuna na makakapag ligtas ng buhay mula sa Unang Araw. Mayroon kaming binuong mahusay na plano, na nagsisimula sa pagbabakuna sa pinaka mahina. Ang aming mga pagsisikap

ay pamumunuan ng dating kumander ng Canadian Army, na may input mula sa mga nangungunang eksperto sa pampublikong kalusugan.”

Jason Kenney, Premier Babantayan ng task force ang pagpapatupad ng programa sa paghahatid ng pagbabakuna sa lalawigan upang matiyak ang etikal, napapanahon at mabisang pamamahagi ng mga bakuna sa buong Alberta.

"Kami ay nagpatupad ng malakas, napiling mga kinakailangang hakbang upang ihinto ang pagkalat ng COVID-19, habang pinaplano ang pagkakaroon ng isang ligtas at mabisang bakuna sa sandaling handa na ito. Ang bagong task force na ito ay magpapatuloy mula sa malawak na gawain ng mga opisyal sa kalusugan upang matiyak na ang mga Albertans ay mabakunahan nang mabilis hangga't maaari, sa sandaling may magagamit na bakuna.”

Tyler Shandro, Minister of Health Sa kasalukuyan, walang bakuna sa COVID-19 na naaprubahan ng Health Canada. Kapag naaprubahan, inaasahan ng Alberta na makatanggap ng sapat na dosis ng mga bakunang Pfizer at Moderna para sa unang pagkakataon ng pagpabakuna

hanggang sa 435,000 Albertans na pinakapeligro, magmula ng Enero hanggang Marso 2021.

"Gagawin namin ang lahat upang matiyak na sa sandaling ang bakuna ay magagamit sa Alberta, ibabahagi ito nang mas mabilis at mahusay hangga't maaari. Kami ay magtatalaga ng isang koponan ng maramihang disiplina mula sa buong serbisyong pampubliko, na magtuon ng pansin sa eksklusibong isyung ito."

Paul Wynnyk, chair, COVID-19 Vaccine Task Force Ang imunisasyon ay gagawin na sunod-sunod, magsisimula sa Phase 1 sa unang bahagi ng Enero, sa sandaling matanggap ang mga bakuna. Ang mga mabakunahan sa Phase 1 ay mga may kasamang pangmatagalang pangangalaga at itinalagang sumusuporta sa pangkabuhayan ng mga residente at kawani sa mga pasilidad na iyon, mga on-reserve First Nations indibidwal na higit saedad na 65, mga nakatatanda na may edad na 75 pataas, at mga manggagawa sa pangangalaga ng kalusugan na pinaka-kailangan upang matiyak ang kapasidad ng mga manggagawa at kung sino ang malamang na

Pag-aaral sa K to 12 sa panahon ng COVID-19 Patnubay at plano para sa mga mag-aaral sa pasukan 2020-21.

Pangkalahatang-ideya Sapilitan na paghihigpit - Sa buong lalawigan Simula Nobyembre 30 Mag-aaral sa Baitang 7-12 • Lilipat ng pag-aaral sa bahay “athome learning” mula Nobyembre 30 hanggang Enero 8, maliban sa panahon ng taglamig* • Ipagpatuloy ang mga personal na klase sa Enero 11 • Ang mga pagsusulit sa diploma ay opsyonal para sa natitirang taon ng pag-aaral. Ang mga magaaral at ang kanilang pamilya ay maaaring mamili kung magsulat ng isang pagsusulit o tatanggap ng isang exemption para sa pagsusulit sa Enero, Abril, Hunyo at Agosto 2021.

Mag-aaral sa Baitang K-6 • Kasama dito ang Early Childhood Services • Ipagpatuloy ang pag-aaral nang personal hanggang sa kanilang nakaiskedyul na pahinga sa taglamig (pangkalahatan Disyembre 18 *) • Lumipat sa pag-aaral sa bahay pagkatapos ng taglamig na pahinga hanggang Enero 8 • Ipagpatuloy ang mga personal na klase sa Enero 11 * Ang mga paaralan ay may iba't ibang mga iskedyul ng pahinga sa taglamig, suriin ang mga detalye sa iyong paaralan.

Pagsuporta sa mga mag-aaral na may mga kapansanan at sa mga outreach na programa Lahat ng mga mag-aaral na may mga kapansanan na nangangailangan ng suporta at mga serbisyo sa anumang baitang na ang mga pangangailangan ay hindi matugunan sa pamamagitan ng pag-aaral sa bahay at ang mga magaaral sa outreach programs ay maaaring magpatuloy na makatanggap ng mga suporta at serbisyo nang personal sa paaralan, anuman ang mga pagbabago sa pag-aaral sa bahay bago at pagkatapos ng pahinga sa taglamig.

• Ang exemption na ito para sa personal na pag-aaral ay batay sa payo ng Punong Medikal na Opisyal ng Kalusugan.

• Sa konsultasyon ng mga magulang, inaasahang magpapatuloy ang mga paaralan sa pagbibigay sa mga

mag-aaral ng may kapansanan ng mga serbisyo at suporta na kailangan nila.

• Dapat magkasamang magtrabaho ang mga magulang, mga guro at punong-guro sa paaralan para sa naaangkop na kaayusan.

Mga kaayusan sa trabaho para sa mga tauhan ng paaralan Ang mga local na awtoridad sa paaralan, bilang mga tagapag-empleyo, ay responsable na magdesisyon tungkol sa kawani ng paaralan kung patuloy na magtatrabaho sa paaralan o magtatrabaho mula sa bahay.

Ang mga desisyon at diskarte ng mga awtoridad ng paaralan ay patuloy na susunod sa mga hakbang sa Kalusugan at Kaligtasan sa Trabaho pati na rin ang mga hakbang sa kalusugan ng probinsya.

makahawa ng COVID-19 sa mga may pinakamalaking panganib.

Inaasahang magsisimula ang Phase 2 sa Abril 2021 at muling ibibigay sa mga prioridad na populasyon. Ang Phase 3 ay kasangkot sa paglunsad ng mga pagbabakuna sa pangkalahatang populasyon ng Alberta, inaasahang magsimula sa taglagas ng 2021.

Sa mga unang yugto ng pandemiya, ang Provincial Operations Center, sa ilalim ng pamumuno ni Wynnyk, ay bahagi ng isang matagumpay na pakikipagsosyo sa Alberta Health Services upang makakuha at ipamahagi ang mga mask, gown, guwantes at mga kalasag sa mukha sa gitna ng pandaigdigang pagmamadali para sa mga pansariling kagamitan sa pangangalaga ( PPE).

Ang mga kasapi ng COVID-19 Vaccine Task Force ay isasama ang cross-government experto sa pagpapatakbo at logistics, ugnayan ng federal-provincial, kalusugan at mga klinikal na domain, pampublikong kalusugan at pagbabakuna, impormasyon sa etika at teknolohiya at data.

from page 3

Heavenly Sign: The Star of BETHLEHEM "It's that time of year again.

December has come and with it all the joys of Christmas. But what is the real meaning of Christmas?

Is it the gifts under the tree, the lights in the windows, the cards in the mail, turkey dinners with family and friends, snow in the yard, stockings hanging in the living ROOM, and shouts of "Merry Christmas" to those who pass us in the streets? Is this really Christmas?"

"For many people, Christmas is a time of sorrow. They don't have the EXTRA MONEY to buy presents for their children, family, and friends. Many are saddened at Christmastime when they think of their loved ones who will not be able to come home for various reasons. Turkey dinners may be only a wish and not a reality for some.

Yet, Christmas can be a season of great joy. It is a time of God showing His great love for us. It can be a time of healing and renewed strength. You see, Christmas is when we celebrate the birth of the Christ child.

God sent His Son, Jesus, into the world to be born. His birth brought great joy to the world.

Shepherds, wise men, and angels all SHARED in the excitement of knowing about this great event.

They knew this was no ordinary baby. The prophets had told of His coming hundreds of years before. The star stopped over

Mabilisang Impormasyon • Ang Alberta ay malapit na nagtutulungan kasama ang pamahalaang pederal at iba pang mga lalawigan at teritoryo upang makakuha ng mga bakuna sa COVID-19 mula nang magsimula ang pandemiya.

• Sa kasalukuyan walang bakuna sa COVID-19 na naaprubahan ng Health Canada.

• Sa oras na ito, ang Alberta ay nakapaglaan ng dalawang dosis ng bakuna, na inaasahang magsisimulang makarating nang maaga sa 2021 kung maaprubahan ng Health Canada.

• Inaasahan ng Alberta na makatanggap ng dosis ng isang bakuna sa Pfizer simula sa unang bahagi ng 2021, na susundan ng dosis ng bakunang Moderna.

• Ang mga eksaktong bilang at timeline ay tinutukoy pa rin.

• Ang dalawang bakuna ay inaasahang darating dala ng maraming mga kargamento sa unang isang-kapat ng 2021.

• Ang mga karagdagang kargamento ng bakuna ay inaasahan sa 2021 habang tumataas ang produksyon sa buong mundo.

Bethlehem just to mark the way for those who were looking for this special child.

Why did He come? Why did God send His son to this sometimes cruel and hard world? He sent Jesus to us so that one day, He would grow up to become a very important part of history. His story (history) is one of truth, love, and hope. It brought salvation to all of us. Without Jesus, we would all die in our sins.

Jesus was born so one day the price could be paid for the things we have done that are wrong. The Bible says that all have sinned..

Jesus came so He could die on the cross for ALL of our sins. If we believe that Jesus died for our sins, we can ask Him to come into our hearts and forgive us. Then, we are clean and made whole.

We can know that heaven is a place where we can go to when this life is over.

The early part of 2020 has lots of Revelations. Let’s LISTEN to WHAT God WANTS to TELL us.

Look at Christmas in a new way this year. This is the year to invite Jesus into your heart.

CHRISTMAS is not about opening our "Presents". IT IS ABOUT OPENING OUR HEARTS TO CHRIST's LOVE. In the FIRST CHRISTMAS, there was NO Room for them at the Inn. This Time around let's OPEN the Rooms in our Hearts to CHRIST's Love.

You will then have a "Merry Christmas." The joy and peace you will receive will last all year as you look to God for all your needs to be met.

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THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

Opinion | Community

DECEMBER 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Christmas and Human Rights MIGRANTS' VOICES

Marco Luciano mluciano2@gmail.com Marco Luciano is the Global Council Representative of Philippine based Migrante International.

He is also the current Secretary General of its chapter Migrante Canada.

D

ecember Celebrates three major events. In addition to Christmas on December 25th, December 10th and December 18th are also days of major historical significance.

December 10 is International Human Rights Day. It was on that day in 1948 when the most important document ever published by the United Nations, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was proclaimed. It is the basis of many of the constitutional rights of people around the world, including the right to rebel (Preamble and strengthened by Article 2). December 18 is International Migrants Day. On that day in 1990, the United Nations Assembly adopted the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families.

It is the commitment of migrant sending and receiving countries to protect migrants, migrant workers and refugees.

What does that have to do with Christmas? To start in a biblical context, the story of the birth Jesus was highlighted in the books of Luke and Matthew. Jesus‘ parents had to flee their own land in Nazareth and take refuge in Egypt, in order to save the life of their child, Jesus. The story goes on to relay that when the people of Jerusalem asked where the newborn "King of the Jews" could be found, then King Herod the Great, the king of Judea, became paranoid that the child would challenge him for his throne. He sought to kill Jesus (Matthew 2:1-8). Herod

then ordered the execution of all male children aged two year and under in the hope of killing the child (Matthew 2:16-18). This led to the Son of God and his family becoming refugees.

As Jesus got older, he was known for curing the sick and feeding the poor. The story of Jesus is a story of living a simple life, and a story of being a champion for the marginalized and abused. It’s a story of standing up to systems of dominance (the Roman Empire).

It’s a story of confronting unjust structures. Reflecting on the current times, His is the story of a true activist. Jesus was vilified and, in the end, died on the cross for what he believed in. He fought back against those who wished to silence him and stop his work for the poor. To be a good Christian is to emulate the life Jesus the Messiah led, regardless of the risks and dangers.

In the last couple of weeks, active members of my organization, Migrante Alberta, were bullied online by supposed supporters of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. This occurrence is not so different from when I was bullied for airing grievances online a year ago. A group of rabid individuals attempted and failed to silence us and our members. In my last article for this year, I decided to share the statement of my organization on the issue.

Lastly, despite the health crisis that the world is currently facing, I wish all AFJ readers and supporters, as well as the tireless AFJ writers and publishing team a safe, Covid-free holiday season.

May the spirit of Christmas, the spirit of love, peace and justice be among us. Looking forward to a fruitful New Year for everyone.

-------------------------------Red-taggers show rottenness against Migrante Alberta (Statement on the attempted redtagging) Redtaggers have shown their rotting fangs to discredit and bully members of Migrante Alberta.

The origin of the despicable act can be traced back to peddlers of anti-communist campaigns in the Philippines. Redtagging in the Philippines implies that individuals or organizations critical of the government are seemingly connected to communism or terrorism or both,

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regardless of the person’s political belief or affiliation. Redtagging has a damaging effect on its targets.

Despite the allegations devoid of proof, Migrante Alberta positions itself to defend the rights of its members and officials – that is, the right to serve the Filipino people who were forced to seek greener pastures abroad because of the same reasons the armed struggle trudges on – poverty, landlessness, corruption and various forms of socio-economic injustices that still grip the majority of the Filipino people.

A certain Roque Lito and Rosadino Roque Elizabeth have recently redtagged the group, alleging that it aims to destroy the government instead of supporting it. The malicious redbaiting went on to cyber-attack Cynthia Palmaria, Migrante Alberta’s finance officer, in the form of sexual threats.

“I joined Migrante because of its track-record as a true servant of the Filipino people. Our activities throughout the years will speak for our organization and its members’ reputation as indefatigable defenders of our people’s rights and welfare,” said Palmaria.

Migrante reiterates what activists from progressive groups such as Bayan and Makabayan have repeatedly said about red-tagging what makes it dangerous is it provides justification for gross human rights violations. A person critical of the government can now be subjected to harassment, surveillance or even extra-judicial killings. Activists like Palmaria, can be vilified on social media, for their beliefs.

Asked about what he thought of the redtagging of Migrante Alberta, Marco Luciano, the Director of the organization said "I'm upset that our members were cyberbullied. Cyberbullying is a crime in Alberta and has legal consequences. But redtagging or redbaiting is not new. This has been happening in different regimes. Harassment of critics of the Duterte government in the age of social media is different but has the same dangerous effects”. As for the alleged connection with the CPPNPA Luciano said "they are rebels in the Philippines fighting for what they believe in. We're in Alberta fighting for the rights of our kababayans. That is easy to understand right?”

Migrante Alberta has been advocating for the rights of migrants

since 2013. The organization kickstarted a campaign to have a career consul general in Alberta in its formation. Migrante was a key figure for the installation of the Philippine Consulate Office in Calgary in 2015. Thousands of kababayans have been benefitting from that. In 2016, they also campaigned for the rights of Canadian-born children of undocumented moms who cannot access health care because of the (non)status of their mothers. It was another victorious campaign that is now being used by many of these children of different nationalities. In 2018, Migrante Alberta once again gathered and united the Filipino community to have June designated as Philippine Heritage Month in the Province of Alberta. This was another successful campaign and lobbying effort to recognize the economic and cultural contributions of Filipinos in the province. These are only some of the accomplishments of Migrante Alberta.

So why doesn’t Migrante condemn CPP-NPA if they are not part of it so that people will not think they are? Luciano responded “the legitimacy and quality of work that Migrante Alberta does here in the Province and in Canada will not be determined whether we condemn the CPP-NPA or not. That is not our job, and no one will tell us how to do our job except our members and the people that we serve. Perhaps these people who have been red tagging Migrante and other activist groups should ask themselves why is there rebellion in the country that has continued to grow in the last 50 years. Perhaps it will also resolve the question of why they left, and why

In times of Covid19 global pandemic, migrants are the most affected.

Canada has been recruiting migrant workers for over 120 years. Migrant workers were integral to the development of Canada. But also, Covid 19 exposed our dependency to migrant and immigrant labour. In March when seasonal agricultural workers were not allowed to come to Canada, Farmers and farm owners started to panic, aside from the farming, migrants pack fruits and vegetables, they work in meat plants and of course, grocery stores and restaurants. Covid has shown how Canada food security is dependent on migrant labour.

Between December 10 (International Human Rights Day) and December 18 (International

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many other Filipinos kept leaving their families behind to work abroad.”

Redtagging progressive groups also serves to distract the attention of the Filipino people from issues the Philippine government has so far failed to adequately address, such as the mishandling of the government response to COVID-19, and of late, the next-to-nil response to typhoon-ravaged areas affected by the super-typhoons Rolly and Ulysses.

Migrante Alberta, along with Migrante Canada on the other hand, revived Sagip Migrante, a fundraising campaign for the victims of the super typhoons and sent over P128,000 to date and continues to raise funds for those affected by the calamity. In Alberta, the organization intensified its pro-people services, acknowledging the ill-effects the pandemic has on poor immigrant communities. The Kapitbisig national project against Covid-19 and its local Serve The People brigades in the cities of Calgary and Edmonton have benefitted tens of families of different nationalities and undocumented migrants through deliveries of food hampers and workshops addressing issues of mental health.

“We will not stop doing what we’re doing because we’re doing it for our people.

Cyberbullying and sexism against my colleagues must be condemned. These redtaggers, the blind supporters of the regime only exposed themselves and the violent and misogynistic nature of the government they are supporting,” said Nellie Alcaraz, Migrante Alberta’s Calgary Organizer. “Activism and community work are not terrorism nor are they crimes,” Alcaraz added.

Migrants Day), we will be having The Migrants Rights Film Festival, an event to commemorate the UN designated days. The Festival is a collaborative project of Migrante Alberta and AMexCal (Association of Mexicans in Calgary).

The project is to highlight the stories of Migrants in Canada and honor the workers that provide food and services in our country.

We will be screening one film each evening followed by a panel discussion on the film/topic. The opening film is Migrants Dreams by award winning filmmaker Min Sook Lee on Thursday, December 10. She will also be in the panel conversation after the screening.

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Religion | Business

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL DECEMBER 2020

MAKE OUR DAILY GOSPEL READING TRENDING Like it and share it!

Fr. Jhack Diaz Rev. Fr. Raldy "jhack" Diaz is the first Filipino priest ordained in the Diocese of St. Paul Alberta. He is currently the Pastor of St. Jean de Brebeuf Parish, Mallaig, Alberta.

Presence rather than presents

T

his year is my fourth Christmas as a priest and I was so blessed to visit the Holy place where Jesus was born. Bethlehem is a walled city. Outside the wall is a large community of Jewish people and they don’t believe in Christmas. From before and until now, many people rejected Jesus, the greatest gift of God. God is in our midst but we live as if there is no God. Many were indifferent

and refused to believe the truth about God. People replace the most wonderful season of the year with unnecessary earthly stuff. Friends, Jesus is the reason for this season.

He is the Emmanuel. Remember that! Thus, let me share three points with you folks.

First, life is SHORT. Our earthly journey is done in just a blink of an eye. Jesus was born today but He only lived for 33 years. If you

have been alive for more than 33 years, consider it a blessing. The Bible says: “the life span if a man is 70, 80 for those who are strong.”

(Psalm 90:10.) We are not sure how many more Christmases we have left in our life. Friends, life is a one-time offer. Live life to your fullest. Stop worrying so much. Life is like ice cream. Enjoy it before it melts. Have fun. Be a blessing and develop a good relationship with

God. They say life is B to D. From birth to death. Between B and D is C and that stands for Choice. Our life is a matter of choice. We are the product of our choices. Choose well. Live well and you will never go wrong. Folks, our goal in life is not to live long but to live well. Make the rest of your life meaningful.

Second, the first Christmas was very SIMPLE. We do not need fancy and worthless things in our life. Do not demand for more. Be satisfied with what you have. To all young people, do not be sad or

get jealous of others if what you’ve received is not fancy or expensive compared to what others have.

Take note, Jesus did not have toys during His time. He only had His parents. What I am trying to get at is: “The best gift are not material things.” Presents are great but love is better. Too much love never spoils children. Children become spoiled when we subsitute “presents” for presence. This Christmas, spoil your loved ones with something that cannot be bought, like hugs, compliments, time, etc. Lord, all I need this Christmas is YOU. How to have a meaningful Christmas?

1.​Love the giver more than the gifts. ​2.​Let your performance be louder than the applause. ​3.​Make your contribution bigger than the rewards.

Finally, the birth of Jesus reminds us that we have a God who SAVES. God was born to save us. Folks, never replace God with other false saviours. Never trade Jesus with some pirated versions of happiness. God is irreplaceable. St. Athanasius of Alexandria once said: “God became man so that man might be like Him.” Live a godly life my dear friends.

Make your day today, better than yesterday. Inspire before you expire.

Wishing you guys a grace-filled, blessed Christmas and a healthy prosperous New Year.

Blessings, Fr. Jhack

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Community | Politics | Business

DECEMBER 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

wireless cellphone provide is needed. c. 811: This number is the Alberta HealthLine. With winter, there are a few common illnesses that come around like the flu and others. This is handy for non-emergency medical situations, especially when you are unsure whether going to a medical clinic is worthwhile.

Resources for Challenges with Winter

By Giselle General

T

he winter season is beautiful, and it is something that many people look forward to every year. That being said, there are real, tangible challenges that can insourmatable and made even more complicated with the current pandemic.

Below is a list of some resources that can help manage some challenges during winter: 1. For Feeling Isolated, Anxious and Restless During Winter a. Winter Walking Guide: Going outside to get fresh air, sunlight, and light exercise is crucial in wintertime, and it possible to do it safely! This

guide from the City of Edmonton can provide valuable information, from safety tips, to a catalogue of locations to visit. https://www. edmonton.ca/transportation/ walk-edmonton.aspx b. Winter Mental Health Guide: This website is a valuable catalogue of different resources to help address issues. There are tips on topics such as initiating online social activities, organizing one’s thoughts and goals, and many more. https://edmonton. cmha.ca/wintermentalhealth/ 2. For helping someone, including yourself, who may be harmed by the weather. a. 211 and then press 3: Calling this

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number is for the Crisis Diversion Team, which is the most appropriate resource for events that are described as “helping someone in distress before police or emergency services are needed.” In the winter, these could be someone who is outside exposed to the elements without proper winter clothing, perhaps huddled in a bench or corner of a building or sleeping on the streets. b. 911: Everyone knows this number, and it’s handy to remember to contact this number in situations where immediate assistance by an ambulance, police or fire department is needed. What’s handy is now, there is texting feature available as well, though some set-up with your

3. For Snow and Ice clearing. a. Community League Sand Boxes: Whenever snow falls, sidewalks in front of one’s home need to be cleaned on a regular basis. Sprinkling sand that is mixed with small gravel can help with having grip and traction on the sidewalks as well, making it less slippery. You can get free sand in the Sandbox located in your community league hall. For more information and to identify the nearest Sandbox at https://www. edmonton.ca/transportation/ on_your_streets/sidewalk-snowremoval.aspx

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b. Snow Shoveling Help for Seniors: It can be dangerous for seniors and people with physical challenges to shovel snow. There are organized referral programs such as the Seniors Home Support Program http:// www.seniorshomesupports.com/ seniors.html that can be useful in finding a reputable referral. Another suggestion is for those who are able-bodied and know that their neighbour next door may struggle with snow clearing, to simply shovel in on their behalf. c. City of Edmonton 311 App: The app can be a valuable tool to hold fellow Edmontonians accountable for not clearing sidewalks properly of snow, or if you noticed a road or public pathway that the city has not cleared properly. Install the app on your phone, and you can take a photo of the location that needs snow clearing.

tmas & Happy H s i r olid Ch y r ay er s!

M

Christina Gray, MLA Edmonton-Mill Woods Official Opposition Critic for Labour and Immigration

780-414-1000 edmonton.millwoods@assembly.ab.ca @ChristinaNDP

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Points of View | Business

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL DECEMBER 2020

VIEWPOINT

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.

T

HIS will be a Christmas like no other. We must all resign ourselves to this reality. We must give up on the idea that we can brush off Covid-19 and give it the finger as if bravado was enough to put normalcy back in our lives.

A vaccine will help, but let’s give up on the notion that that, too, will put normalcy back in our lives.

Vaccines will not do it, at least not immediately. What a vaccine will do is slowly stitch up the wounds that the pandemic has wrought on society.

It is the start of healing, literally and

www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

A Christmas like no other figuratively, but not immediately.

What we must realize, if we haven’t by now, is that the fight against Covid-19 will be won or lost with us. Frankly, it is infuriating to see and hear people, the so-called “anti-maskers” and “freedom lovers,” chant and shout out to the world their commitment to fight for their rights and freedoms that more often than not start with a condemnation of a simple mask. A piece of cloth worn over the mouth and nose has become a symbol of misplaced, if not ridiculous, politics.

If anything, Covid-19 has exposed what is wrong with humanity. It has revealed how selfish and utterly absurd people can get in the face of a deadly pandemic. Doctors tell us Covid-19 attacks our respiratory system, much like pneumonia only infinitely worse. It turns out that the virus also attacks our sense of decency and compassion, and our capacity to be considerate towards our fellow men and women. Heck, it even attacks our common sense.

In this context, Covid-19 is truly a deadly pandemic like no other.

It is equally exasperating that while society reels from the effects of the pandemic, leaders who should otherwise lead, do not. Instead, they play to the politics of their constituency and become part of the problem rather than part of the solution.

But being the season that it is, I would rather focus on what we all can do, individually and collectively, for each other. When faced with annoying moments brought about by annoying people, Filipinos have the perfect foil: “habaan ang pasensya” (stretch your patience). Perhaps this will be an apt

mantra in a Covid-tainted Christmas.

Most of us are cooped up in our homes. Environment Canada says we have to brace for a very cold winter going into January and February next year (imagine 2020’s tentacles creeping in just as the door slowly closes to usher in 2021). We can’t do the things we normally do during the Christmas season, and we are told that we should pass up on traditional family gatherings and reunions. It’s hard let to the merry season pass without the merriment. It’s like Noche Buena by your lonesome, dining on sardinas and pandesal. It’s not right.

What’s also not right is to throw caution to the wind, break the rules, and celebrate the season as we and our families have for decades. This will be a Christmas like no other. But as pitiful as that sounds, let’s consider the true spirit of Christmas, one that revolves generosity, kindness, and compassion.

If there was ever a time where we have to be generous, kind, and compassionate, let it be this Christmas, when our world is reeling from a pandemic and all sorts of disasters natural and man-made. Let’s stay home if we can, avoid social gatherings, and practice safe distancing. Let’s keep ourselves safe because that’s how we keep our friends and family safe, and that’s how we keep our communities safe.

Have a merry, meaningful Christmas. As my former boss always said during the Christmas season: “lilipas din yan” (this too shall pass).

He was talking about Christmas, but he could very well have been talking about Covid-19.

THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

Points of View | Business

DECEMBER 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Winterizing one’s life in Edmonton “Blow, blow, thy winter wind. Though thou aren’t so unkind as man’s ingratitude.

Thy tooth is not so keen, because thou are not seen. Although thy breath be rude”.

This song I learned in high school during my first year in Canada made me realize that, instead of a typhoon season, winter is a permanent part of life in Canada I need to get used to. Adjusting was not always easy, but it is my position that we have to find ways to “winterize” our lives, find ways to make the tough parts manageable and appreciate this time of the year.

I was taught how to layer my clothes to be more protected. I learned the hard way a few practical tricks as well. Sometimes, fluffy outerwear is enough, but waterproof items are more important especially when snow is melting. As a teenager with limited income, I bought cheap boots and coats that only lasted a year and don’t protect me at -40 degrees while taking public transit. Also, heading out while your hair is still wet is never a good idea!

I finally bought industrial-grade winter boots called Kickspikes that was popular among postal workers and tradespeople, who work outside all day long. It is $400, with sturdy rubber treading and a button that activates metal spikes come out of the sole, for walking on slippery surfaces.

The insulation was incredible, at -40 degrees back in February, I only needed only one pair of socks. Our feet and mood and mental health are worth the investment of proper protective winter footware, as part

GENERAL POINT OF VIEW

Giselle General gqgeneral@gmail.com Giselle General came from the cold, mountainous region on 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 volunteer-based initiatives.

of winterzing one’s life in this city.

Ironically, my best winter outfits were either gifts or from a thrift store.

I bought two snowpants from the children’s clothing section of Value Village, one is a fluffy jumper style, and a windbreaker you wear over your outfit. My winter coat for four

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years now is a branded label coat with large pockets and warm lining that cost me $20, which retails at $300. My favourite scarf is not even from Canada but was a gift from my ninang when she visited Baguio City in the Philippines. My best winter hats were also from the Baguio City’s Night Market!

Snow clearing is another task that is unpleasant and important, but the more I live here, I embraced a passionate moral duty to do this diligently. Vulnerable members of our community always struggle getting around in winter, such as people in walkers and wheelchairs, parents with strollers, and those who would feel badly hurt if they slip and get a fracture.

I aim to be a proactive citizen by clearing our home’s sidewalks regularly, and generously apply snow melt that is pet-friendly so dogs don’t get hurt while walking. I also clean the bus stop that is two houses down the street and use the City of Edmonton’s 311 app to report roads and sidewalks that are improperly (or haven’t yet been) shovelled. This is how I apply the Filipino value of “Tapat Ko, Linis Ko” as in, I diligently clean the space in front of me.

Finally, winter should not be a reason to feel stuck, lonely and bored at home. There are numerous evening activities as well such as Candy Cane Lane, outdoor markets, and more.

When I went to Zoominesence at the Edmonton Zoo in 2018 when it was -35 degrees and marvelled at the light displays and animal enclosures, I felt

fierce, strong, and eager to venture outdoors more often moving forward.

We are blessed with an expansive river valley trail system, that is gorgeous in wintertime. Local parks and trails are a few minute walk away in our neighbourhoods. Whenever the weather is between 0 and – 15, which

happens a lot, it is worth visiting these “winter wonderland” places during the day. And these public parks are free, no need to go out of town to a ski resort! Winter City Edmonton is an initiative that is gaining traction, so let us live our lives here with this perspective all the time.

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Points of View | Business

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL DECEMBER 2020

Will there be Christmas 2020?

HUWAG PAGTAKHAN! (“DON’T MARVEL at MR. MARVEL”)

Hermo Toribio Reyes Pagtakhan hermopagtakhanlaw@ hotmail.com Cell: (780) 905-9288 Hermo Toribio Reyes Pagtakhan of Edmonton, Alberta is a Lawyer who had practised for more than 25 years in the Philippines and in Alberta and thereafter, was an Index Options Trader in Wall Street. He is currently a Family Counselor with Arbor Memorial Gardens whom he joined in 2013. Hermo is also President of PROXSMART GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES and of NOTIFY GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES which develop Mobile Apps for Digital Marketing and Contactless Technologies which enable Businesses to operate their businesses and at the same time keep their Employees and Clients safe from Covid19 Contamination.

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he pastor of the parish of San Lorenzo in Pamplona had just been on the phone with Pope Francis. “It was really very surprising.

At 4:30 p.m. I was at the rectory of San Lorenzo when my cell phone rang,” explained the priest, who thought it was a business call or one of the many parishioners.

At the other end of the line was Pope Francis, who was calling to tell him that he had read his text written a few days earlier about Christmas during the coronavirus pandemic.

The text, titled “Will there be Christmas?” and presented as a poem, reaffirms the true meaning of the holiday.

Certainly, the end of this year is likely to be less hectic than what we’re used to, the priest points out. But that’s just the point. It’s an opportunity to finally experience the silence and peace of Bethlehem.

According to the priest, Pope Francis appreciated the message of the poem and told him that Christmas would be “more purified” because of the health crisis. “He told me how the Christian spirit of those days has been progressively stolen from us,” he said.

The news outlet Navarra.com published the original text written by Fr. Leoz. Here is an English translation.

Will there be Christmas?

Of course!

More silent and with more depth.

More like unto the first one, when Jesus was born in solitude.

Without many lights on earth but with the star of Bethlehem shining on paths of life in its immensity.

Without colossal royal processions but with the humility of feeling as if we are shepherds, young and old, seeking the Truth.

Without big tables and with bitter absences but with the presence of a God who will fill everything.

my Dear Family, Relatives, U.P. VANGUARD Brods & Sis, Classmates and Dear Friends and your respective Families the Message of CHRISTMAS - LOVE, GENEROSITY, PEACE & HOPE. A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPIER & MORE PROSPEROUS 2021 TO YOU ALL!

Will there be Christmas?

Of course!

Without streets overflowing with people with our hearts burning for the One who is about to arrive.

Without noise or festivals, complaints or stampedes … but living the Mystery without fear of the “COVID-Herod” that tries to rob us even of the dream of waiting.

There will be Christmas because GOD is on our side and He shares, as Christ did in a manger, our poverty, trials, tears, anguish and orphanhood.

There will be Christmas because we need a divine light in the midst of such darkness.

COVID-19 will never be able to reach the heart or soul of those who put their hope and their high ideal in heaven.

THERE WILL BE CHRISTMAS! WE WILL SING CHRISTMAS CAROLS! GOD WILL BE BORN AND WILL BRING US FREEDOM! (J. Leoz) https://aleteia.org/2020/11/13/ pope-calls-spanish-priest-to-congratulatehim-for-will-there-be-christmas-reflection/ JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON - Without CHRIST, there is NO CHRISTMAS! My Wife BAIDA and I wish All of You

ADVERTISE WITH US! 780-916-7677 publisher@albertafilipinojournal.com www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

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DECEMBER 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Business

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Business

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL DECEMBER 2020

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DECEMBER 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Alberta Government Advisory

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COVID-19 INFORMATION

STAY SAFE, ALBERTA. Do the right things to help prevent the spread.

We’re all tired of COVID-19, but this fight isn’t over. We all need to do the right things to prevent the spread—and protect the most vulnerable.

Stay home if you’re sick

Practice physical distancing

Wear a mask when you can’t distance

Questions about your health? Call 811.

Stay informed.

alberta.ca/covid19

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Business

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL DECEMBER 2020

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Business

DECEMBER 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Local YEG Business Spotlight: Reform Restoration JAN THE MAN’S NOTE

Reform Restoration Company Logo

Januel Cedrick Ibasco Januel Cedrick Ibasco is a proud Filipino-Canadian who is currently a student at the University of Alberta and is studying to obtain 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.

needs to be touched up just a little, I am here for that. With that being said, I treat every sneaker as if it is my own. I put a lot of tender loving care into each pair to restore it to the best of my ability.

It surprises me to this day how far my company has gone these past five months. I would have never envisioned I would be dealing with a vast demographic of clientele beyond “sneakerheads”. My clientele also includes, trades workers and their steel toe boots, business professionals with their loafers, and just the casual guy who hits up the gym that wants a pair done. The greatest feeling is returning the sneakers back to each client & seeing their faces of approval. It truly is the most rewarding feeling.

I have recently expanded my company to Vancouver, Calgary, & Winnipeg. So if you know anyone that needs there shoes done there are different social media pages for each city as well.

Filipino Entrepreneur: Noah Sulit

Reform Restoration has three different packages based on the condition of each shoe that I see. These packages are “The Classic”, The “Replenish”, & “The Resurrection”. To find more details on each package you can check my social media page on Instagram @ReformRestoration in the highlights tab.

CONTACT: Instagram: @ReformRestoration Email: ReformRestoration@gmail.com

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he following content is from a local YEG Filipino entrepreneur named Noah Sulit who has recently opened a shoe cleaning company (Reform Restoration) and is looking forward to serving you! It is important during this time that we consider supporting local businesses in the midst of this pandemic. I would like to offer my platform to Noah this month to be able to share his company’s offerings! Here are some of Noah’s words regarding his story and the different services he offers: Hello! My name is Noah Sulit and I take your beat-up sneakers and turn them into nearly brand-new condition. Being a sneaker enthusiast ever since my junior high days I have developed a passion in keeping my shoes clean no matter what. Every time I come home; I start cleaning my sneakers that I wore that day.

Dirty or not, I have always strived to keep my shoes fresh. To me, a clean pair of shoes can heighten and one’s your appearance from the top down. From personal experience, I understand that having your shoes clean serves as a great confidence booster when stepping out through your door.

The idea of opening a shoe cleaning company (Reform Restoration) came to me through a friend. He asked me to clean a pair of his shoes because he knows how passionate I am. After I gave them back he asked me “Why don’t you start doing this for real?”

It took me a while to commit to this idea, but eventually I gave it a try and the rest is history.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic started I lost my job pretty early.

With that being said I dove head first into pursuing cleaning sneakers fulltime. I have nearly a decade of experience in this industry and have dealt with different types of shoes such as leather, fabric, mesh, synthetic, suede, etc. You name it, my Reform Restoration will preserve it.

My company Reform Restoration was founded on the idea of “staying fresh is for everyone.” Whether you have a limited-edition sneaker from ten years ago, or even a shoe that All photos and articles available online. Follow us

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Immigration Consultancy Services| Media Partner | Book Review Partner

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL DECEMBER 2020

CANADIAN CITIZENSHIP APPLICANTS – HOW IS COVID-19 AFFECTING YOUR APPLICATION? FROM MIGRATION TO IMMIGRATION

Marjorie Carmona Newman info@ mcncanadaimmigration.com 780-758-2045 Marjorie Carmona Newman is a REGULATED CANADIAN IMMIGRATION CONSULTANT based in Edmonton, Alberta.

She is currently a member of CAPIC’s Policy and Lobbying Committee and previously served as Prairie Chapter representative for the Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC) in the Governance and Nomination Committee and Education Committee. Marjorie was a recipient of CAPIC's Members Service Award for four consecutive years (2015-2019).

Online Citizenship Test Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced on November 26, 2020 the launch of a new platform for online citizenship tests. This is IRCC’s response to the challenges posed by the global pandemic.

You must wait for an invitation from IRCC to be able to take the citizenship test online.

You don’t need to reach out to IRCC, you must wait for the email from IRCC inviting you to take the online citizenship test. If the applicant used an authorized third-party representative, IRCC will contact the representative by email. If you are not comfortable taking the online test, you have the option to wait until the in-person tests resume (date to be determined). The online citizenship test is in English or French. It is 30 minutes long, has 20 questions that are either multiple choice, or true or false. You need to get at least 15 out of 20 questions right to pass the test. Before you take the test you will need a piece of identification with your photo and signature, such as your permanent resident card (you can use it even if it is expired) or a valid (not expired) ID such as your Driver’s License or Health Card. You also need your application number, a valid email address, a reliable Internet connection, a desktop computer, laptop or tablet with a webcam. You cannot use a mobile phone and a Chrome or Safari web browser.

- Citizenship events in our temporary office (itinerant service trips)

Canadian citizenship applications Due to COVD-19, IRCC is prioritizing Canadians who are trying to return to Canada and thus, unable to provide accurate processing times. If you submitted an application and there are missing documents due to COVID-19, for example, police certificates, passports, medical exam results or medical opinion forms, IRCC will not close or refuse an application in progress.

They will automatically give you an extra 90 days to submit your documents from the deadline in the request letter, and they will keep extending the deadline Video Oath Ceremony To be able to participate in the Video Oath by 90 days until you can get ceremony (virtual citizenship ceremony), you the documents. There is NO must wait for the invitation from IRCC. They will contact the email address or phone number that you provided in your application. If you used an authorized representative, IRCC will contact the authorized representative. You will attend the video oath ceremony via a Zoom video-conference call. Information on how to set up Zoom in your ceremony invitation will be provided by IRCC.

NEED to contact IRCC to get any of these extensions and as soon as you obtain the required / missing document, submit them to IRCC as soon as possible to avoid further delays.

Urgent processing of applications You can request an urgent processing of your citizenship application in special cases, if your request meets the conditions for urgent processing.

If you have questions regarding the above article you may contact Marjorie at info@ mcncanadaimmigration.com Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

Steeped in Stories: Ulat Aklat

The following events have been cancelled by IRCC until further notice: - In-person citizenship ceremonies - In-person citizenship tests and retests - Most retests, interviews and hearings

Jasmine-Grace Nacu nacu.jgcn@gmail.com Jasmine-Grace Nacu, originally from Las Piñas, Metro Manila, is a former bookseller, current library assistant, and all around professional book lover based in Edmonton, Alberta. When she's not helping you find your next must read at your local library, she's spreading kindness by snail mail and writing reviews on @ steepedinstories on Instagram.

Any Day With You

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Book cover credit from penguinrandomhouse.com

his month, I would like to share with you a heart-warming middle-grade novel titled Any Day With You by award winning Filipino-American author Mae Respicio. This novel follows twelve-year-old Kaia as she explores her love for film, special-effects makeup, and her Tatang’s stories. Kaia’s great-grandfather, Tatang, tells the best stories. From folktales of the bakunawa and the mystical engkantos, to his childhood in the Philippines, Kaia loves them all and never tires of listening to them. But she learns that Tatang also has stories he has left untold, like his time as a soldier in World War II and other hardships he went through. When Tatang decides to move back to the Philippines for good, Kaia is devastated. If only she could make him understand how much she needs him. Will she be able to cook up a plan to make him stay in Santa Monica or will she have to say goodbye?

Any Day With You is a great book to introduce the younger generation to Filipino culture and family values. It celebrates the power of stories and the importance of knowing your family history. Even www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

though this novel is set in the summer, I found Respicio's themes of family and Filipino resiliency to be fitting during this holiday season. We have all faced a lot of challenges this year. Fraught with fear and anxiety, 2020 has simultaneously felt extremely long and yet somehow went by really fast. But we have made it to December, the time to celebrate the holidays. When I think back to my past Christmases, I can say that a Filipino Christmas at its heart is all about family.

Sadly, with the new stricter but much needed restrictions in place, it looks like celebrating Christmas will be yet another challenge and will look starkly different this year. But just as Mae Respicio highlights in Any Day With You, we Filipinos are resilient, adaptable, and we sure know how to celebrate. So even though we may not be able to gather in-person, we can still try to find ways to celebrate together, be it through phone calls, or video calls, or whatever creative means we can come up with. One day, we will be able to gather again with our friends and family, but until then, let us keep each other safe.

THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

DECEMBER 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

News | Lifestyle and Fashion | Business

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One of the first recipients of Covid-19 Vaccine in Ontario is a Filipina: Anita Quidangen (Credit to Lucas Powers of CBC News)

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long-term care worker became the first person in Ontario to receive a dose of the COVID-19 vaccine on Monday, kicking off an immunization campaign expected to last for the better part of a year.

Anita Quidangen, a personal support worker at the Rekai Centre at Sherbourne Place in Toronto, sat down for her first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine shortly before 12 p.m. ET. The shot was administered at a site in the University Health Network, a system of hospitals and health-care facilities throughout the city. The exact location is being withheld for security reasons, the province says.

Quidangen was one of five front-line health professionals slated to get a dose of the vaccine, which

arrived by plane in Hamilton from the United States last night. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine requires two doses several weeks apart.

"This is a watershed moment — the beginning of the end of this terrible pandemic," Ontario Premier Doug Ford said in a statement. "The light at the end of the tunnel grows brighter every day, but we must remain on our guard."

The Ontario government described Quidangen as the first Canadian to be vaccinated, but a resident at a long-term care home in Quebec City actually received her shot several minutes earlier.

Ford also specifically acknowledged Quidangen, who has been a personal support worker since 1988 and often did double-shifts during the pandemic to care for residents.

"Anita has spent years rolling up her sleeves to protect our province, and today, she didn't hesitate to find a new way to do so," Ford said.

The other health-care workers to receive the first dose of vaccine today were: • Cecile Lasco, personal support worker.

• Derek Thompson, personal support worker.

• Lucky Aguila, registered practical nurse.

• Colette Cameron, registered nurse.

Ford was on hand at Hamilton International Airport on Sunday to greet the UPS plane carrying the vaccine when it landed, marking a major milestone in the massive immunization campaign about to begin in earnest.

Anita Quidangen, a personal support worker in Toronto, became one of the first people in Canada to receive a COVID-19 vaccine on Dec. 14, 2020. (Photo credit to the rightful owner)

"Today's milestone officially launches the first phase of our threephase vaccine implementation plan to keep Ontarians safe and marks the beginning of the long journey

to return life back to normal," he said today.

Some 3,000 doses of the PfizerBioNTech vaccine are going to the continued on page 24 ►

She’s Hair for You! FILIPINAVIGATION

Riana Torrejon torrejonriana@gmail.com Riana Torrejon is an undergraduate student at the University of Alberta who is a passionate advocate for human rights. In her spare time, she loves to write and sing. She is also the Fundraising and Events Director for the Child Advocacy Society of University of Alberta and a writer for Happy Columns.

Martin Luther King, Jr. is one of her greatest inspirations.

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his month, I had the pleasure of interviewing Camille Arcilla.

She is an extremely talented Filipino hairstylist who actually worked on my hair recently! Camille is a big sweetheart who has found much success in the hair industry.

Please enjoy our interview below.

1. Could you tell me about yourself, your education and work experience?

My name is Camille Arcilla. I was born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba in a traditional Filipino family.

Ever since I was young, I’ve loved playing with hair; whether it was my own, my mom’s, my cousins’ or my titas’. Growing up, I never thought hairstyling could be a possible career, especially with Filipino parents!

The majority of my Filipino friends wanted to go into nursing, dentistry, engineering or accounting. Despite my

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A photo of Camille’s beautiful work on hair.

Another photo of Camille’s beautiful work A photo of Camille taken by @kerrtisy on on hair.

Instagram.

parents being traditional, whenever school or a future career was part of the conversation, they never advised me to pursue a career for wealth, but instead for happiness. I graduated with my French Immersion Diploma in 2015 at Collège Garden City, and moved to Edmonton, Alberta the following fall. When I

finally decided to pursue a career in Hairstyling by enrolling in MC College, it was no surprise to my family. I started school in January 2019 and it was a rollercoaster ‘til the end. I had many nights of studying, crying, and practicing. If I wasn’t in school, I was online watching balayage techniques, learning color

formulations, marketing strategies; educating myself days in and out.

I would apply everything I learned to clients in the school salon, and market myself on Instagram every day! Everything I was learning in class and online was paying off, and I was booked for weeks at a time. continued on page 25 ►

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Arts and Culture | News

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL DECEMBER 2020

Sean Garrity and “I Propose We Never See Each Other Again After Tonight” ARTOSPECTIVE - an artist’s point of view

Ida Beltran-Lucila ida_b_lucila@yahoo.com

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ast September, a Filipina-led Canadian movie, I Propose We Never See Each Other Again After Tonight” had its theatrical run in Edmonton and Calgary. Directed

by Sean Garrity, the movie is a romantic comedy about a Filipina girl and a Mennonite boy, and about love, and loss, and winter, and banana sauce.

The film had an ‘unexpectedly successful’ run - held over 10 consecutive weeks in Winnipeg; 7 weeks in Edmonton; 4 in Vancouver.

It was screened in 17 cities at 19 cinemas. Last November, it was released online, on Rogers, Shaw, Telus, Bell, Vubiquity, Cogeco, iTunes, Sony, Cineplex, and Google.

And at Hoopla, close to the end of December.

The film was directed and written by Sean Garrity, best known for his 2001 film Inertia, which won the award for Best Canadian First Feature Film at the 2001 Toronto International Film Festival, and Best Director at the 2001 FilmCan Festival,

and his 2012 film My Awkward Sexual Adventure. His works have been selected in festivals in Toronto, Busan, Austin, Shanghai, Mannheim, Torino, Singapore, Melbourne, Mar del Plata, Taipei, Santa Barbara and Sao Paulo - and have been translated into 15 languages. Sean has been recognized for jury and audience awards.

I Propose We Never See Each Other Again After Tonight, is Sean’s 8th feature film. “I set out to make a Winnipeg movie and the Filipino community is important”, Sean explains. With a cast of 29, 20 of which are Filipino-Canadians, the film is a groundbreaker in its major representation of our cultural community in the landscape of Canadian films. Sean realized the gravity of this in the process of making the film.

When his regular casting director only had five Filipino actors, Sean scoured the city - asking his Filipino friends and teachers in high schools for potential Filipino actors; going to Filipino events, particularly Karaoke; and combing through groups and profiles in social media. And this is how he found Hera Nalam, the lead actress and whose debut performance is widely credited for the success of the film. Also in the cast is Andrea Macasaet, who went on to make her Broadway debut playing Anne Boleyn in the production of Six the Musical.

In order to provide a framework for authentic representation and depiction of the characters, Sean filmed Filipino events in Winnipeg (with permission, of course), allowed the actors to improvise in their scenes and with dialogue (speaking interchangeably in English and Filipino with no subtitling), and

screening film clips to a test audience of Filipino immigrants and Canadianborn. To quote Hera Nalam in an interview with Winnipeg Press, “I like how Sean was very respectful of showing how warm but also how tough it can be in a Filipino household or the Filipino community where everybody seems to know each other.”

Film Reviews: “You’d think that people would have had enough of silly love stories, but look around you and you’ll see it isn’t so. ‘Cause here they go again.

And it’s wonderful.” - Chris Knight, National Post “If you enjoy stories about culture and the complexities and hilarity that life can bring then please check this one out… If you enjoy realistic portrayals of love and relationships that, when all is said and done, emphasize happiness through the struggle I think you will really enjoy this.” - Emily Mody, CalgaryMovies. com “...a stunning achievement for a low-budget Canadian rom-com.

Freshman actors pull off this simple story of two strangers meeting and taking a chance on each other to turn this film into a sometimes delightful, sometimes heartbreaking examination of a young relationship.”

- Film Gate Reviews Sean credits the huge success of the film to the reception and support of the Filipino community across the provinces. This confirms the hankering for representation of Filipinos, who have generally been delegated to supporting roles and non-speaking parts, in the industry.

Some projects in the works are a drama, a comedy, and a musical, which will embrace both his roles as a musician and filmmaker. With

this, he plans to work again with the Filipino actors, who majority have musical careers as well. Having started his film career through music videos, Sean is keen in using the visual language of music videos in this movie.

Sean Garrity, who set out to make a movie that would reflect his hometown Winnipeg, finished with a banner work of representation of the Filipino community in Canada. He

is regarded as “kuya” in his Filipino circles. And this movie, I Propose We Never See Each Other Again After Tonight, has been propped up by Filipinos across Canada. We now have the opportunity to see this film in the safety of our homes.

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

Soft Opening of Recado Restaurant Alberta Filipino Journal Team and Himig Pinoy 101.7 World FM at Recado Restaurant, Callingwood (formerly Quickly Bubble Tea), at 6719 177 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada during its soft opening last November 2020.

Chester Tiongson, one of the owners, graciously welcomed and offered this group deliciously cooked food and more delicacies for free-tasting.

www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

Religion | Community

DECEMBER 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Those who belong to Christ OUR TEXT 24"And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.

25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another."

Galatians 5:24-26, KJV THE CONTRAST BETWEEN THE FLESH AND THE SPIRIT. How the works of the flesh: 1. Oppose the Spirit - Galatians 5:16-17.

2. Prevents one from inheriting the kingdom - Galatians 5:19-21. How walking in the Spirit: 1. Helps one to not fulfill the lust of the flesh - Galatians 5:16.

2. Produces the fruit of the Spirit in one's life - Galatians 5:22-23.

3. Frees one from the condemnation of any law - Galatians 5:18, 23c. In summarizing his discourse on the flesh and the Spirit, the apostle Paul reminds us of what is true of those who belong to Christ...

1. They have crucified the flesh with its passion and desires Galatians 5:24.

2. They live in the Spirit - Galatians 5:25a.

3. They should therefore walk in the Spirit, not in conceit, provoking, and envying one another - Galatians 5:25b-26.

FROM A VANTAGE POINT

Tito S.Venida FOUNDING FATHER

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.

This passage, Galatians 5:24-26, alludes to much that is revealed elsewhere as to what it means to be a Christian, a disciple of Christ. For example, those who truly belong to Christ are those who...

I. HAVE CRUCIFIED THE FLESH In Principle: 1. When we died with Christ in baptism - Romans 6:3-6.

2. So that now Christ lives in us, and we live by faith - Galatians 2:20. In Practice: 1. As we seek to put off the old man, and put on the new - Colossians 3:5-14.

2. As we were taught by Christ Ephesians 4:20-24. The question is, Are we crucifying the flesh in 'practice by living a holy life?

Romans 8:11; cf. 1 Corinthians 6:19.

2. Who empowers us to put to death the deeds of the body - Romans 8:12-13; cf. Ephesians 3:16.

3. Are you living in the Spirit by utilizing His strength?

Because we live in the Spirit, there is great potential for spiritual growth.

But that growth is not automatic.

Crucifying the flesh in both principle and practice cannot be done without divine help.

And so those who truly belong to Christ are those blessed to...

II. LIVE IN THE SPIRIT In the beginning: 1. It is the Spirit who gives life John 6:63; 2 Corinthians 3:6.

2. Which He does in the washing of regeneration (i.e., baptism) Titus 3:5.

3. So that we are truly born again of both water and the Spirit John 3:5.

4. Have you been made alive in the Spirit through baptism? In the present: 1. By virtue of His indwelling -

We can be guilty of grieving the Spirit, cf. Ephesians 4:30. Thus, those who belong to Christ...

III. SHOULD WALK IN THE SPIRIT Not conceited: 1. Manifested by selfish ambitions, contrary to the mind of Christ, cf.

Philippians 2:3-5.

2. Manifesting instead lowliness of mind that leads to gentleness (meekness), cf. Galatians 5:23. Are you walking in the Spirit? Then free yourself from conceit.

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Not provoking: 1. Manifested by conduct such as immorality or outbursts of wrath, cf. Galatians 5:19-20.

2. Manifesting instead joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness - Galatians 5:22-23.

3. Are you walking in the Spirit free from provoking others? Not envying: 1. Manifested by hatred, jealousies, cf. Galatians 5:20-21.

2. Manifesting instead love that does not envy and thinks no evil, cf. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a.

3. Are you walking in the Spirit free from envy?

CONCLUSION Those who belong to Christ are they who...

1. Crucify the flesh in both principle and practice.

2. Live in the Spirit from their baptism to the present.

3. Should walk in the Spirit, producing the fruit of the Spirit. Do we truly belong to Christ?

1. It begins with baptism into Christ - Galatians 3:27.

2. It continues with a life of faith - Galatians 2:20.

3. It produces a whole new person - Galatians 6:15.

Such is the life that Christ offers: made alive in the Spirit, walking in the Spirit, bearing fruit of the Spirit..

Is this not the life you want? - cf.

John 10:10.

LINGAP Canada Commemorates International Human Rights Day, December 10 Submitted by: Jean Cawagas, LINGAP-Canada

H

uman Rights Day is observed every year on the 10th of December, the day the United Nations General Assembly adopted, in 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), a milestone document proclaiming the inalienable rights which everyone is inherently entitled to as a human being regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status” TThis year, the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights has organized a campaign on the theme “We can all be Human Rights Champions” [#Standup4humanrights]. Since the proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, there have been other declarations, conventions, and treaties on specific human rights, including the Canadian Charter on Rights & Freedoms.

More than 40 people signed in to the Zoom link for the virtual commemoration. Thirty five speakers shared their one to two-minute reflections on the meaning and implications of human rights from their perspectives, contexts, and roles including First Nations and indigenous people, women, children

and youth, educators, health workers, media representatives and journalists, IT specialists, LBGTQ+, language teachers, musicians and arts creators, workers, businesspersons, religious/ faith leaders, NGO advocates for non-discrimination and anti-racism, immigrants, migrant workers, refugees, seniors or older persons, persons with disabilities, children in trauma and with rare diseases, global-local justice, nonviolence, peacebuilding, environmental care, and sustainable living and futures.

Listed below are the speakers who reflected not only about specific human rights but also how violations of these rights can cause suffering and marginalization, as well as how these violations should be overcome through individual, social, societal, and global action. The participants came from various places and institutions across Canada and New York and Los Angeles, USA. Emilea Saadeh: a First Nation and Metis descendant of the Michel First Nation & member, Board of Directors, John Humphrey Centre for Peace & Human Rights Anna Wilson: PhD student, Social Justice & International Education, University of Alberta Virginia (Jean) Cawagas: Educator for

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peace, nonviolence, human rights, social justice, and anti-racism; member, LINGAP-Canada Noreen Berkes: Executive Director, Changing Together; Board of Directors, LINGAP-Canada Jimmy Buena: Junior High School teacher, Edmonton Harold Casana: Elementary school student, Edmonton Lauren Lizada: Junior High School student, Edmonton Feisal Kirumira: Member, Anti-Racism Advisory Council, Alberta Lynn Deutscher Kobayashi: President, Greater Toronto Chapter, National Association of Japanese Canadians (NAJC) Rev. Gem Mella: Deacon, Corpus Christi Catholic Church, member, LINGAP-Canada Marco Luciano: Director, Migrante Alberta & representative of Migrante International in Canada Caridad Bernadino: Educator, City University of Seattle (Edmonton campus); member, LINGAP-Canada; former staff, Edmonton Immigrant Services Association (EISA Josie Pallard: Filipino-Canadian Saranay Association – Filipino Language & Culture School of Edmonton; Vice-President, LINGAP-Canada Kristina De Guzman: Creator, Arts & Non-Profit Sector Roujea Cawagas-Cates: Founder,

Artist House – musician & music teacher, LINGAP-Canada Josette Salgado: Nurse (retired), member, LINGAP-Canada Grace Alaracon Isla: Founder, The Canadian Society for Relapse Polychondritis Paula Audrey Rivero: Chief Operating Officer, Qi Creative Anne Sumach: Director, Health Services, Sage Seniors Association Michelle Bisell: Education Coordinator, VAD (Voice of Albertans with Disabilities) Laura Schultz: Social Worker; member, LINGAP-Canada Lito Velasco: Editor-in-Chief, Alberta Filipino Journal Chibu Lagman: Independent journalist: Board member, LINGAP- Canada Zoltan Berkes: University scientist & educator; member, LINGAP-Canada Chris Cates: Founder, Creative Programming; computer programmer; Secretary, LINGAP-Canada Robert Zuber: Director, Global Action to Prevent War & Armed Conflicts (New York, USA) Mavic Cabrera-Belleza: CEO, Global Network of Women Peacebuilders (GNWP) (New York, USA) Paul Belanger: Director, The Green Foundation Ben Sabet: Educator; Community engagement & program development; CEO, Business Mentor

Erica Cawagas: student; worker; member, LINGAP-Canada Michael Siervo: Investment professional, entrepreneurs & community supporter Marvie Misolas MM: Maryknoll Sisters, New York Toh Swee-Hin (S.H.Toh): President, LINGAP-Canada; Educator for peace, global/local justice, human rights ,intercultural respect & sustainable futures The virtual commemoration ended with a meaningful candlelighting ceremony to symbolize the participants’ commitment to promoting human rights. A YouTube video with a song “Here to Love”

by Lenny Kravitz, endorsed by the UN Office of Human Rights was played, with the opening lyrics: We must all unite, for we are one creation We must join the fight, together we are strong We must do what's right in every situation Love each other's lives as you would do your own When the song ended, the participants stood up with their posters and raised their voices saying “#StandUp4HUMAN RIGHTS”.

A recording of the event will be posted on the LINGAP Canada website. You are welcome to visit https://www.lingapcanada.com/

www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

Points of View | Inspiration | News

24

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL DECEMBER 2020

Have Faith, Don’t Just Be A Number

JUST LISTEN

Nicky Gocuan, PMAA ngocuan@yahoo.com Nicky Gocuan has been a Columnist/ Photojournalist for over 15 years. He finished his Degree in Communication Arts at De La Salle University in 1990.

After obtaining his University degree, Gocuan joined the Print Media and has contributed for The Philippine Star, Pilipino Star and later moved to Bagong Pinoy, where he wrote a regular opinion column. He also went on to write a showbiz column for The Tribune and Remate.

Gocuan has experience in covering the Police beat, Political beat, and Entertainment beat before landing in the Sports beat.

He later wrote a regular sports column for Remate Tonight.

During this time, he was elected President of the Philippine Basketball Association Press Photographers Club (PBAPPC) for Two Terms and helped uplift the status of the group to become a part of the 5 Man Mythical Committee in the PBA. He is currently the President of The Philippine Media Association of Alberta (PMAA) and Host of a weekly radio program ‘The Fourth Estate” on Tala Luvz Radio in Calgary.

A

s the year draws to a close, let us take a closer look at what happened in 2020.

It was a very difficult year for the world.

When a New Year enters, we always hope that it will be better than the previous year but this year was a very different year.

The world changed drastically because of a Coronavirus leak from China. Our lives changed from thereon. The world just stopped as cities went into a lockdown one by one, hospitals started to fill with sick people and dead bodies.

Business had to shut down, restaurants had to close and events were cancelled. We were

like prisoners locked up in our homes. Nothing to do, nowhere to go.

Never did we imagine that we would be so detached from our Family, Relatives, Friends and Neighbours.

Because we could not understand what was happening, we were all seeking more information, Fake News started to flourish. Rumours about the end of the World was here. The damage brought upon by Fake News was so severe that it divided the world even more.

But it was also a year that showed us that no matter how financially rich you are, your money cannot save you if you get sick . I know for a fact that when a billionaire was infected by the Coronavirus, not even his wealth was able save him from death.

2020 is definitely a year all of us want to forget, especially me, because I have an immunocompromised daughter. What definitely kept me going is the Faith that God will help us get through this pandemic, and that our Saviour Jesus Christ will protect us no matter how hard the situation is. I know that this will end soon if we keep our faith.

Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

While it will be a very different Christmas, it does not stop us from Celebrating the Birth of our Saviour Jesus Christ. Even though we are apart, we are still one in mind and heart. What is very important is for us all to stay safe. Let us not be just a number because if we overwhelm our hospitals, we will just be a number.

You don’t need to be just a number so stop gathering in the meantime.

From my Family to yours, Merry Christmas and We wish you safe and well. We all hope that everything will be back to normal in 2021.

Filipinos Success' Stories:

Kaya Ko; Kaya Mo! If I can; You surely can!

JOSEPH DUENAS: Driven by his faith.

AFJ: What was your dream job as a child?

Joseph: I didn’t really have a dream job when I was a child. Although, when I finished my elementary years, I thought I was being called to be a priest. I was raised and educated by Don Bosco Salesians. I studied in Don Bosco, Mandaluyong, Philippines from Prep until I finished my Engineering Degree at the same school in 1983. I entered the seminary for a month when I finished Grade 6, but I guess it wasn’t meant to be. I ended up finishing my Bachelor of Science in Electronics and Communications Engineering Degree.

AFJ: What is your career path like?

Joseph: Right after I graduated, I became a teacher at AMA Computer College, teaching Computer courses, BASIC, DOS, and Fortran to name a few. At that time, there was a boom in working with computers and AMA Computer College was one of the few new schools specializing in Computer Science. After teaching for more than 2 years, I arrived in Canada in May 1986.

Since arriving, I have held progressive positions in the field of Information Technology. I became a Canadian Regional Infrastructure Manager for IKON Office Solutions (now Ricoh Canada) from 1995 to 2006, Network and Operations Manager at EPCOR from 2009 to 2011, and at present a Technical Consultant.

Anniversary this coming Dec 27 , 2020) Children: Jeff Lester Duenas (Financial Advisor at Royal Bank) and Jodie Duenas (Catholic School Board Teacher) Two Grandkids (twins) from Jeff Duenas and Lyndsey Duenas – Francis and Henry Duenas

AFJ: Did you have a goal in mind, or did things fall into place?

His Achievements: Joseph: My goal in mind just fell into place. I am • District Deputy, Knights of thankful that things have been going well for me Columbus Alberta and NWT as I have also been providing a good life for my State Council (In-charge of 6 family, especially for my kids. And now, grandkids. Councils in CY 2019-2020 and Information Technology has been my bread and 5 Councils in CY 2020-2021); butter field of work and I can say I have applied • Second Year Term Received my technical skills and spirituality being a graduate District Deputy of the Year of Don Bosco Technical College.

Award Columbian Year 20192020. Chosen by State Deputy AFJ: Were there struggles you had to overcome? out of 32 District Deputies in Barriers in culture or language? the State of Alberta and NWT. Joseph: No barriers in culture or language. I didn’t • Received New Council have any issues with all the companies I worked Development Awa rd for and clients I had to deal with.

Columbian Year 2019-2020 for the formation of a New AFJ: Was there schooling you had to take, etc.? Knights of Columbus Council Joseph: In the field of Information technology, in Edmonton, AB. one has to constantly upgrade his technical skills. • State Technology Chairman I have my designations as Microsoft Professional, 2012-Present, Knights of Certified Novel Engineer, Six Sigma, CompTIA. I Columbus Alberta and NWT also attend a lot of webinars and computer vendor State Council; sponsored trainings.

• Faithful Navigator, Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree, AFJ: How did you decide to come to Canada?

St Michael Assembly 2015 Joseph: Since I was young, I knew that I wanted to – 2017; travel. And I always favoured Canada over the US, • Grand Knight, Knights if given the chance. The reason is perhaps due to of Columbus Nazareno all my aunts and uncles who migrated all lived in Council 2010-2011 (10th Canada and the stories they told about the quality Year Anniversary Council of life they enjoyed here in Canada. From then on, Grand Knight); I aimed and dreamed about living in this country. • Charter Member, Knights of Columbus, Nazareno AFJ: What advice would you give to your Council, 2001 Chairman younger self? of Various Religious and Joseph: Do not forget your roots. For me, being Fundraising Activities for raised by Don Bosco Salesians, I apply the Order’s Corpus Christi Church, St ideals and principles to my daily life. Always put Theresa’s Church, Knights of Christ in the centre of your life. Be a good and Columbus Nazareno Council kind person and always do good at what you do. and St Michael Assembly; Leaders are made and not born.

• Recipient of Community Service Award – Adult, 14th Worth mentioning about Joseph Dueñas: His Hiyas Award, 2011 Karilagan Biography and Achievements.

Dance Society on their 40th His Life: Anniversary; Born November 10, 1961 in Manila Philippines. • Vice President, Edmonton Father: Gerardo Duenas, deceased 2001 Charitable Society 2016 Mother: Leticia Duenas, deceased – Present Siblings: One sister (Aline Duenas, Pharmacy Tech • Leo Club Advisor, Edmonton at Shoppers Drug Mart here in Edmonton) and Filipino Lions Club International, One brother ( John Duenas, Doctor of Medicine 2001-2002 in the Philippines) • Vice President, Edmonton Married to Divina Ladores Duenas (34th Wedding Filipino Lions Club, 2002-2003

from page 21

One of the first recipients of Covid-19 Vaccine in Ontario is a Filipina...

UHN, while another 3,000 will go to The Ottawa Hospital.

An additional 85,000 or so doses of the PfizerBioNTechvaccine a re expected to be provided to 14 hospital sites in Ontario regions currently in the red and lockdown levels of the province's COVID-19 restrictions system by the end of the year.

Health-care workers, long-term care residents and their caregivers will be among the first to receive the vaccine. Adults in Indigenous communities, residents of retirement homes, and

recipients of chronic home health-care will also be priority groups, the Ministry of Health has said.

and our vaccine supply will arrive in stages," Ford said.

ADVERTISEMENT Once someone is vaccinated, do they still have to wear a mask? Your COVID-19 vaccine questions answered.

The 2nd stage of the COVID-19 vaccination should target those most likely to spread the virus, say some experts.

The province expects to receive 2.4 million doses — allowing it to vaccinate 1.2 million people — during the first three months of 2021, with vaccines becoming more broadly available to the general public in April. It will take another six to nine months to immunize all Ontarians who opt to get the vaccine.

"I encourage everyone to be patient. This is the biggest immunization program in a century,

HEALTH-CORONAVIRUS/ CANADA Cecile Lasco, a personal support worker with decades of experience, was the second person in Ontario to be inoculated with the PfizerBioNTEch COVID-19 vaccine.

(Carlos Osorio/Reuters) Meanwhile, this morning, Ontario reported another 1,940 cases of COVID-19 and 23 more deaths from the illness.

The new cases include 544 in Toronto, 390 in Peel Region, 191 in York Region, 134 in Hamilton and 114 in Windsor-Essex.

ADVERTISE WITH US 780-916-7677 publisher@albertafilipinojournal.com www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

Opinion | Lifestyle and Fashion

DECEMBER 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

The many firsts in the Biden presidency PEREZCOPE

Perry Diaz PerryDiaz@gmail.com I am a writer/columnist/journalist.

I have two weekly columns -- "PerryScope" and "Balitang Kutsero." They're published in more than a dozen Filipino newspapers in five countries.

I

f there is one notable result of the Biden-Harris victory it is the first time that a female vice president has won the election. Many tried if before like Geraldine Ferraro who ran in 1984 as presidential candidate Walter Mondale’s vice presidential running mate. Ferraro was the first woman nominated for national office by a major party.

But the Mondale-Ferraro ticket was buried in a Reagan-Bush landslide ending what might have become as a national sensation where women did not have a place in presidential politics before. These positions were then reserved for men. But Ferraro removed the “men only” sign from the White House door.

It would be another 24 years before another woman from a major party was nominated for vice president — Gov. Sarah Palin of Alaska, the Republican running mate of Senator John McCain, in 2008. The McCain-Palin ticket lost to the Barack Obama-Joe Biden ticket that year. What’s interesting is that Hillary Clinton ran against Obama in the Democratic primaries as a presidential candidate.

The Mondale-Ferraro ticket was doomed from the very start.

Ferraro became a target of the maledominated presidential politics that from page 21

She’s Hair for You! My social media presence grew, and I was extremely fortunate to get the attention of many salon owners including the Compound Cut Club’s, Julius Magpali and Alec Casapao. They reached out to me in August 2019, and it’s only gone up from there.

I’m currently a Hairstylist at the Compound Cut Cub @ 10652 98 Street NW, located in Edmonton’s Chinatown. I specialize in balayage, color correction and blonding on Asian/dark hair.

2. What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love being a hairstylist because I’m doing something I’m so passionate about and I get the opportunity to meet so many amazing people in my chair. I get to form personal connections with my clients and help them find confidence in themselves, making them feel beautiful in the inside and enhancing the beauty on the outside. Most days don’t

put her down as unworthy of the office, which was just a “heartbeat away” from the presidency. Can you imagine a woman becoming the president should the president die in office? Many Americans weren’t comfortable with the idea of a “Madame President.” Clearly, the time had not arrived yet for women in presidential politics.

Fast forward to 2020. Once again, the Democratic Party chose a woman for candidate for vice president. Gee! Haven’t they learned a lesson from the Ferraro and Palin political debacles?

This time around, the Democrats fielded an African-South Asian as vice presidential candidate. That’s a double whammy!

Year of the woman But times have changed. This is the 21st century and Sen. Kamala Harris led the assault on the male-dominated presidential politics. Harris was elected vice president together with presidential candidate Joe Biden.

Harris brought with her an experience in law enforcement having been a former Attorney General of California before she was elected senator. She has a persona that fits the office of vice president – ready to take charge should the president is incapacitated.

Joe Biden in a move that defied conventional politics nominated a diverse retinue of cabinet members that included women and people of color. Things are moving rapidly in the direction of bringing to the top echelon of the administration women and people of color.

Chief among them is Janet Yellen, the President-elect's choice to head the Treasury Department.

Already the first woman to have chaired the Federal Reserve, Yellen would carry the same distinction if the Senate confirms her as Biden's Treasury secretary.

Biden is also set to nominate Adewale "Wally" Adeyemo to serve under Yellen as the deputy Treasury secretary. If confirmed, Adeyemo, of Nigerian descent and the current president of the Obama Foundation

feel like “work” because I’m having fun doing what I love, making a difference in people's lives and I’m surrounded by such talented people in an environment that reminds me of home, Winnipeg.

3. What are the common misconceptions that people have about the work you do?

The 2 most common misconceptions that people have about hairstylists are: 1. Being a hairstylist isn’t a “real job” and doesn’t make much money.

2. Hair is easy, and anyone can do it themselves.

Most of my uncertainty with becoming a hairstylist stemmed from these misconceptions. Even though I knew better, it still worried me: the possibility of me not being able to support myself and my future family.

Knowing what I know now, I would’ve laughed at my past self.

Hairstylists and barbers make good money. Good, good, money. That being said, you must be passionate in your craft, invest in your education, keep up with trends, and market and work as hard as you can. Some might call me lucky, being in the position I’m in of only doing hair for just over a

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in Chicago, would be the first Black person to hold that powerful position.

Biden is also planning to name Neera Tanden to lead the Office of Management and Budget. Currently the chief executive of the Center for American Progress, a liberal think tank, and a former top aide to Hillary Clinton, Tanden, who is of South Asian descent, would be the first woman of color to oversee the agency. In tapping Tanden, Biden risked grumbles from some in the progressive wing of the Democratic Party, with whom she has sparred -- mostly over Twitter, where she is an active combatant -- over the past four years. And for some reason she has rubbed some Republican senators the wrong way. They vowed to block her Senate confirmation.

The selection of Cecilia Rouse, a Princeton economist, to lead the Council of Economic Advisers, is less likely to set off fireworks on social media, but it is a historical marker just the same. Rouse will become the first woman of color to chair the council.

Biden nominated an all-women communications team while Harris nominated all women to the top senior positions in her staff, including the chief-of-staff, Tina Flournoy, who is African-American. Flournoy also served as chief-of-staff to President Bill Clinton.

Rohini Kosoglu, a former chief of staff in Harris’ Senate office who became a top advisor to her during the Biden presidential campaign, will serve as her domestic policy advisor.

Kosoglu is of South Asian descent.

Also nominated were Symone Sanders and Ashley Etienne as Harris’ press secretary and chief spokesperson, respectively. They are both AfricanAmericans.

Nancy McEldowney, a former U.S. ambassador to Bulgaria and 30year U.S. Foreign Service veteran, will be Harris’ national security advisor.

McEldowney is Caucasian.

As Aimee Allison, founder and president of She the People, a group advocating for women of color in politics, has said, “It’s time to have

a women-of-color agenda, where we’re defining the priorities of the country.”

year, but they don’t know how hard I worked to be where I am today.

As for the misconception that anyone can do hair, if you’re following me on Instagram, you know that the majority of my clients are color corrections. Many clients attempted to bleach their hair themselves or used box dyes to cover up their mistakes. I’ve been a hairstylist for just over a year, specializing in color corrections, and the average price for a color correction in Edmonton is $100/hr. A hairstylist is a real job and the amount of money you can make doesn’t have a limit. If anyone could do it themselves, us hairstylists wouldn’t have any clientele.

drive to chase that kind of success.

4. Who are your biggest influences/ inspirations in the industry?

My biggest influences and inspirations in this industry are all from Winnipeg!

Growing up in a smaller city in Canada, well known hairstylists, Josie Vilay (@josievilay) and Amber Joy (@hairbyamberjoy) and barbers, Famos (@famos) and Chink (@ chinkthebarber) gave all of us young, aspiring, hairstylists and barbers the

Seasoned and experienced One thing is common to all those nominated to the serve in the Biden administration, they’re all seasoned and experienced professionals who have served other Democratic officeholders.

Nobody can say that they were nominated because they’re women and people of color. They were nominated because they were the brightest and the finest, who happen to be women and people of color.

“Together with the rest of my team, today’s appointees will work to get this virus under control, open our economy responsibly and make sure it lifts up all Americans, and restore and advance our country’s leadership around the world,” Harris said in a statement.

So far, the appointment of women and people of color brought diversity for the first time in U.S. history.

Biden has repeatedly promised to build a government that "looks like America." However, Representative Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, who was instrumental in getting Black support for Biden’s presidential bid during the primaries and a close ally of Biden, said that the president-elect has fallen short in nominating Black figures to top positions in the administration.

Take it easy Rep. Clyburn, there is still a number of cabinet positions to be filled. Subsequent appointments have included blacks, Latinos and women.

As the incoming administration is taking shape, the outgoing Trump administration is made up of largely White and male group during his nearly four years in office. There was only one black appointee in his cabinet. Biden has appointed a large number of Obama appointees, which seems to signal the continuity of the Obama administration. But they are experienced with a high degree of qualifications to their new positions.

The new appointees don’t seem to carry excess baggage. None have any known character issue. And their

5. What do you do when you’re not working?

As a hairstylist, it is very difficult to have good work-life balance.

I manage my own bookings, edit and post my work and promote my services on Instagram as often as possible. Sometimes I get in over my head and overwork myself, but it’s really important for my mental health to take a step back from work.

I’m very family-oriented so when I do have days off, I really enjoy spending time with my loved ones.

I’m also a huge foodie, so being away from Winnipeg’s amazing food scene is really tough, but I love trying local restaurants in Edmonton, Washoku and Dorinku Tokyo being my favourites.

Furthermore, most of my clients don’t know this, but I’m a really big sneakerhead (thanks to my boyfriend)!

We spend a good amount of time finding some really good deals, building my collection.

Lastly, in my own time, I really enjoy cooking, shopping, watching

25

experience and background fits the positions they are appointed to.

Among the group of incoming communications aides is Jen Psaki, who was Obama's White House communications director and will assume the public-facing role of White House press secretary, and Kate Bedingfield, who served as deputy campaign manager and communications director on the Biden campaign, comes aboard as the White House's top communications aide.

In addition to Psaki and Bedingfield, Biden also announced that Karine Jean-Pierre, a senior adviser on the Biden campaign who later served as chief of staff to Harris, will serve as principal deputy press secretary.

Jean-Pierre is a progressive favorite and former chief public affairs officer at MoveOn.org, the liberal activist hub. Also, Symone Sanders, who was a senior adviser on Biden's campaign in 2020 after serving as a national press secretary for Sen. Bernie Sanders' 2016 presidential campaign, will join the White House as a senior adviser and chief spokesperson for Vice President-elect Kamala Harris.

Jean-Pierre and Sanders are Blacks.

Biden also announced several others, including Avril Haines, the first woman to lead the U.S. intelligence community, and Alejandro Mayorkas, who would be the first Latino and immigrant to head the Department of Homeland Security. Mayorkas is the son of Cuban immigrants.

There are still a lot of appointments to be made. However, there seems to be an absence of nominees of Asian descent. While it is a concern at this point, I hope that Biden would fill some positions with Asian Americans and Native Americans. There were talks of a Native American being considered for Secretary of the Interior, which would be the right thing to do.

Meanwhile, why don’t we give Biden the latitude he needs to select the people he is nominating or appointing to form the backbone of the Biden presidency. So far, his picks speak a lot for what his presidency would look like. Right now, I give Biden a high mark for building his administration better than any other president in U.S. history. The many firsts speak for themselves.

game streams, and most importantly: sleeping, because I never get much of it!

6. What advice would you give someone wanting to break into this career?

For anyone wanting to become a hairstylist or barber, the best advice I could give you is to never give up and to keep investing in education.

In hair school, my biggest struggle was letting other students get to me.

There’s always going to be somebody with something negative to say. This industry can be intimidating and competitive, but don’t let others bring you down. Stay humble, educate yourself, keep up with the latest techniques and build relationships in this community with those who uplift you and want you to succeed.

7. Where can people find more of your work online?

I do all my marketing and booking through my Instagram, which is where you’ll find all my work, as well as FAQ on pricing. Follow me @arcillacamille on Instagram to keep up with my hairstyling journey!

www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

26

Points of View | Brain Twisters

THROUGH A TEENAGER’S EYES

Kristian Cereno Kristian Gabrielle Cereno is a Grade 11 student at Archbishop MacDonald Senior High School.

His hobbies include writing poems, composing songs, acting and drama. He also has a love of music and plays piano and guitar and will soon learn to play the violin. Hockey? – Leave it to the Canadians.

Hey there!

O

h hey there, how are you doing? How’s your day today? Just wanted to check up on you. I know it may be a really long and hard day for you but you made it! Or if you are just about to start your day, you will be just fine! How’s everything in your

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL DECEMBER 2020

life right now? I know you may be going through a rough time but I know that you can do it and you will go about your normal day.

Remember, no matter how rocky or smooth your life may be, it does not matter as long as your goal is to succeed. There will be a reward waiting for you at the finish line.

This is just a reminder to always take care of yourself even though you may think you do not have the time to. I know that stress can be a factor of not doing “self-care” but trust me, a good rest can help you so much better before you go on and break a leg (not literally haha). As your day goes by, you might encounter a minor/major hindrance to your day. Just think about how you will treat yourself when you’ve gotten yourself through it. Would that be having 8 hours of sleep? A day off? Or maybe you’ll prepare a steak for yourself when you get home. Just remember, at the end, there will be a prize waiting for you. You may look at this and say that it is impossible to take a breather, but remember that taking care of yourself is just as, or even more, important than what you are dealing with right now. It can be a 5-minute break or it can be a 5-day break, who knows? But I tell you, it is important. Make sure to check in with other people too! Talking

HOROSCOPE December is a turning point for you in yet another way, too, as midmonth the mighty planets Saturn and Jupiter move into your fulfillment sector for the first time in many years (solar eleventh house). They are preparing you to focus more on community as well as your social life in the years ahead. Prepare for important karmic lessons about friendship to arrive from 2021 on.

CR OSSWOR D

to a friend or two can be a great way to relax as well - catching up with them, going over how you’ve all been, or even talk about how you slipped on the snow the other day.

Having a friend is such a great gift.

A walk outside with your dog can be an amazing thing too! Taking a breath of fresh air without worrying about anything is very therapeutic to your mind.

I do not know who has or who wants to hear this, but you are loved.

You may not feel you are, but you are loved by the people around you. I know this sounds very cliché, especially when you are hearing this from a teenager like me, but people out there cherish you. Remember to take care of yourself despite that hard math problem you are going through, that bad day at work, that all-nighter you pulled, or anything that is stressing you out.

From your friend or complete stranger, Gab.

ACROSS

32. Golf stroke 33. Tells (a story) 37. Prayer's end 38. Poet's "before" 39. Least polite 41. Enrolled 45. Chef's smock 48. Roofing goo 49. Water (Fr.) 50. Trunk 51. Australian bird 52. ____ had it!

53. Ocean currents 54. Rep.'s opponent 55. Fishing snare

1. Public notices 4. Have being 7. Evaluates 12. Hit lightly 13. Perfect gymnastics score 14. ____ Setter 15. Madrid cheer 16. Spring mo.

17. Religious devotion 18. Between 40 and 60 (hyph.)

21. President Ronald ____ 22. Pair 25. Painful 28. Wired message 30. Bird's sound

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DOWN December moves at breakneck speed for you, Libra, because it activates parts of your chart that create plenty of momentum! There was a lunar eclipse in a fellow air sign at the end of November, so you will likely hear news regarding an academic, media, publishing, or traveling matter. If you’ve been seeking to emigrate, this may also come through now. This eclipse shows that you are destined to leave your comfort zone and move in a new direction (solar ninth house).

December offers other activity, too, especially when the sun blazes into your sector of expansion on the twenty-first for the month ahead (solar ninth house).

Many Taurus might decide it’s time to plan and pursue academic or media matters in order to ultimately grow. If you’ve been pondering travel, you might consider where you’d like to go now or in the year to come.

A unique month ends your 2020 storybook with many different planetary alignments, Scorpio. At the end of November, there was a lunar eclipse in your shared assets sector. This means that you may now be receiving a large payout, scholarship, venture capital, or loan approval (solar eighth house).

The powerful lunar eclipse in your sun sign at the end of November is still putting you in the spotlight, so it’s possible you will realize that a new destiny is calling to you (solar first house). There is no doubt you’re feeling that it’s time to stand confidently in your power, and you aren’t interested in settling for anything less than you deserve.

One of the most important months of 2020 for you has arrived, Sagittarius. At the end of November, there was a mighty lunar eclipse in your relationship sector, bringing you a fated moment (solar seventh house). Some of you might now decide it’s time to move in together, get engaged, or marry. Others might realize it’s time to go your separate ways.

Harness the eclipse vibrations at the onset of December that are telling you to rest, surrender, and lie low, Cancer. This eclipse could drain your energy and encourage you to heal whatever emerges at this time or find closure on something that has long been weighing upon your soul. It’s important to handle this now so it doesn’t continue to deplete your energy (solar twelfth house).

The lunar eclipse at the end of November drew your attention to your employment or health (solar sixth house). This may propel you to suddenly shift jobs now or take on more projects. You’re definitely considering how to live in the best work/life balance possible, Capricorn, and if you’re seeking to improve your fitness routine, exciting developments could appear. However, a lot of this month encourages you to rest, recharge, and make plans for the year ahead.

A lunar eclipse at the end of November is still active now. It fell in your social sector, so you could have had a sudden realization about a close friend, or someone in your network may have opened a door to one of your hopes or dreams (solar eleventh house). You might even be attending a very memorable event near this time, and if you do, it will likely hold potential for both personal and professional happiness.

An adrenaline-filled month is here for you, Aquarius. At the end of November, there was a lunar eclipse in your pleasure sector (solar fifth house). This is a zone that highlights fertility, love, creativity, and children, so it’s likely that a destined moment in one of these areas will come to your attention. Your heart will swell now, and you could feel as if you’ve been given a cosmic gift from the heavens.

An astounding career victory will likely be coming your way due to the pivotal lunar eclipse that took place at the very end of November (solar tenth house). This means that you could be welcoming more success, achievements, or even fame in December! Oftentimes, this delivers a reward in direct relation to how hard you’ve worked in recent years, so many Virgos will likely see a promotion, new job, or award manifest now.

A major life turning point has arrived for you, Pisces. At the end of November, there was a lunar eclipse in your domestic sector (solar fourth house). This may have triggered a move, real estate venture, or change in roommates. Other Pisces may have had to focus attention on a family matter. If your kin need you, be sure to step up.

November 2020 Crossword's Solution

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1. Molecule part 2. Painter Salvador _____ 3. Rushed 4. Dickens title beginning (2 wds.)

5. Do again 6. Infuriate 7. Matured 8. Like the Sahara 9. Bind 10. Detroit time zone (abbr.)

11. Bashful 19. Laundry machine 20. Guy's companion 22. Slender 23. Hand gesture 24. Prophetic sign

25. Pimples 26. Burn slightly 27. Not there 29. Shred cheese 31. Mom and dad 34. Harbor vessel 35. Rewrote 36. Bun seed 40. Stroke a guitar 41. Fragnant flower 42. Harness strap 43. Roof projection 44. Music for two 45. Drama division 46. Greek letter 47. Apple color

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!

November 2020 Issue Sudoku's Solution

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DECEMBER 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Para-legal Services | Community | Business

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Pamaskong Handog: Christmas Benefit Concert for Political Prisoners by Malaya Canada

By Erie Maestro and Mila Philipzig

P

amaskong Handog was created and organized by the Malaya Movement Canada as a “zooma-thon” fundraiser and musical showcase last December 5th that ran for five hours, cutting across time zones from Canada coast to coast.

Pamaskong Handog was a serenade from Malaya Canada and all the generous donors to KAPATID, the support organization of families and friends of political prisoners in the Philippines. It was also a strong hand of solidarity extended across thousands of miles from here to the Philippines.

Fides Lim, wife of political prisoner Vicente Ladlad and the spokesperson of KAPATID underlined the significance of the Christmas Benefit Pamaskong Handog for KAPATID and the political prisoners they will help. She said, “This Christmas campaign comes at a time of unprecedented human rights violations when the process of remembrance and solidarity is imperative. Remembering is not so much about those who did not come to visit but about those who came and never left because they provide continuous support. From projecting the issue of political prisoners to pressing their release from unjust imprisonment, and gathering various political, material, financial support to protect their rights and welfare.”

Donations came in during the program from many people across Canada and the US – from caregivers

and essential workers, seniors, professionals, alumni associations, migrant groups, young people, and concerned Canadians. Thanks to the generosity and solidarity of people in Canada, donors continued to respond even after the program was over.

The minimum suggested donation to attend the concert was $10, roughly equivalent to PHP370.00.

The website for the concert clearly indicated what care packages would be available for this amount providing the donors a tangible idea about the gifts the beneficiaries would receive.

Sample care packages contain 3 slippers and 2 face masks; or 10 bananas and ½ kilo of fish; or 20 tablets each of Neozep and Biogesic; or 2 loaves of bread, 3 cans of liver spread, and 3 sachets of sandwich spread, and so on.

More than twenty wonderful talents from Canada, the United States and the Philippines gave their gifts of song, music, prayer, and poetry. Alberta was represented by Koro Filipino, Lyla Luciano from Anakbayan, Kitbielle Pasagui, a former soloist from the Philippine Madrigal Singers, and an Edmonton poet, Mila Bongco. The other artists are musicians from the Philippine Philharmoic Orchestra and the broadcast station ABS CBN, Janet Lumb, Josie de Leon, Lyn & Nik, Han Han, AnakBayan singers, Nobel Queano, the Maestros, and the 14 Strings! Rondalla, Fr. Albert Alejo, Bandang Uppercase, and so much more.

Well-known Filipino scriptwriter, novelist, journalist, and former political prisoner Ricky Lee greeted the families and the political prisoners and said: “Napakalaking bagay ng ginagawang proyekto nito ng Malayang Canada lalo na ngayong Pasko na kailangang magtulungan at magdamayan tayong mga Pilipino.” (This is a worthwhile project of Malaya Canada especially on during this holiday season when we need to help and support each other.)

Marissa Corpus, spokesperson of Malaya Canada, encouraged the viewers to “be generous and share our blessings. Tuloy ang laban! On with the fight.”

Malaya Alberta sent messages of solidarity and support to all those fighting for justice, freedom, and a government free of corruption and full of integrity that will confer freedom to all political prisoners soon.

British Columbia Malaya convenor Treenee Lopez, said, “We support the call to free all political prisoners, and this Christmas we want you (political prisoners and

families) to know you are not forgotten, we will continue to fight for you, for justice, democracy and freedom.”

Malaya Quebec members sent the political prisoners their Christmas greetings of hope and solidarity: “We are with you in all your struggles, we will continue fighting for you and your freedom. We are with you in spirit. We pray that this despicable political repression in the Philippines ends soon and you will be free to celebrate Christmas with your families.”

Breaking news of the arrest and detention of young organizer and new mother Amanda Lacaba Echanis and her month-old baby boy came out a couple of days before the event which made the benefit even more urgent. Her case and that of the still detained mother Reina

Mae Nasino were highlighted at the zoom-a-thon benefit.

The Pamaskong Handog event will be available for viewing online soon so please follow us on Malaya Canada social media sites.

We continue to accept donations as the hard plight of political prisoners continue past the holiday season.

We ask you to please e-transfer to Malaya.xmas@gmail.com and make sure to include your email address for confirmation. Donors can also make a donation in someone else’s name as a gift, and a card will be sent to them. Alternate ways of giving are available at https:// malaya-xmas.carrd.co/ Malaya Movement Canada malayamovementcanada@gmail. com

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28

Immigration Solutions | Business

IMMIGRATION: A Beacon Of Hope

Stephen Burry Stephen Burry is the Lead Consultant and owner of Freedom Migrate Immigration Solutions Limited, an immigration consultancy firm based in Calgary, Alberta. Stephen is licensed with the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC). He can be reached at 403-520-2277 or call/ text at 587-938-3100. Email: freedommigrate@gmail.com Website: www.freedommigrate.ca CHRISTMAS EDITION: Questions for an Immigration Professional This month, amidst the many questions and comments we receive from readers, I have decided to post our top two most frequently asked questions in a series called Questions for an Immigration Professional. **All names and details have been changed to protect identity**

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL DECEMBER 2020

Missing a little elf at Christmas time!

Question from Jose in Edmonton, AB: I arrived in Canada in 2015 with my wife as a sponsored family member on an application she submitted for me after she obtained permanent residency a few years ago. The application was handled by a consultant who advised me to not include my 5-year-old son from my previous relationship as he would not be accompanying me to Canada.

At the time, I obliged and did not include him. My son is now 10 years old and I miss him very much and want him to come to Canada and join me! His mother has agreed to let him move to Canada and stay with me. PROBLEM IS, I was told that if I try and sponsor him, I could be banned from Canada and lose my PR status! Also, I hear that my son will never be able to come to Canada! Please help!

Answer: Hi Jose, thank you for the question. This is a serious situation, but not an impossible situation to solve. When a person applies to become a permanent

resident, they are required to declare all their family members (spouse, commonlaw partner, dependent children, dependent child of a dependent child), even if they are not accompanying the principal applicant to Canada. Currently, the consequence for failing to have a non-accompanying family member examined is a lifetime bar on being able to sponsor that family member. This can also result in a misrepresentation on your file that could lead to a revocation of your permanent resident status.

But not all hope is lost!

Starting in September of 2019, the Canadian government created a pilot program to allow some to sponsor their previously undeclared family members if they meet certain eligibility requirements. These requirements are: 1) The foreign national has applied as a spouse or a common-law partner

in the Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada class or as a spouse, a common-law partner or a dependent child in the Family Class; 2) The foreign national has a sponsor who: A. Applied for, and was granted permanent residence status as a Convention refugee or a person in similar circumstances; or, B. Was granted permanent residence after having been determined to be a protected person; or, C. Was determined to be a member of the Family Class, and was granted permanent residence as a sponsored spouse, commonlaw partner, conjugal partner, or dependent child; or, D. Was determined to be a member of the Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class and was granted permanent residence as a sponsored spouse or commonlaw partner.

3) The foreign national, if declared and examined at the time their sponsor immigrated to Canada, would not have made their sponsor ineligible in the class that the sponsor applied for.

Lucky for you, it sounds like you might qualify! When dealing with a serious issue like this, it is very advisable that you seek professional advice on the next steps. Contact our office and we can offer you a FREE initial consultation to assess you further and determine if you qualify for this program.

Bah humbug! Needing a Christmas miracle Question from Miguel in Red Deer, AB: Back in March of this year, I lost my job as a commercial painter because of the COVID-19 pandemic. I was working in this job for almost 24 months on an employer restricted work permit.

My employer had obtained a labour market assessment to hire me from the Philippines. I was unable to find work with another employer and my work permit recently expired.

I am now out of status! I have two young daughters and a wife at home also out of work! What can I do to fix my status?

Answer: Great question Miguel!

Sounds like a common situation that could happen to anyone in this current COVID world. You do have a couple of options. First,

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we would always recommend you immediately resolve your status issue by changing your status to a visitor record and ensuring your temporary resident status is still valid. We usually would recommend you do this before your status expires, however because your work permit has already expired, you might qualify for a restoration of status if it has been less than 90 days since expiry. IF you are outside of the 90-day restoration period and have not tried to resolve your status, there still may be an option! **See below** When all else has failed, you may qualify for an exemption to the requirements you need to meet to stay in Canada and may also be able to apply for permanent residency based on humanitarian and compassionate considerations.

This is a last resort option and can be a saving grace for people in your situation. Here are some things to consider: 1) You need to prove your and your family’s establishment in Canada.

This can be done by providing a photo record of your experiences in Canada as well as showing school records and providing support letters from friends and family here in Canada who can support your case.

2) Best interests of children involved.

You mentioned you have two young daughters with you. There is a legislative requirement in immigration law that requires a decision maker to take this into account! Make sure to explain how your two daughters will be affected if they are forced to leave Canada.

3) Explain your status issue. Make sure to detail exactly what you want IRCC to consider and explain how you have attempted to resolve your status issues and overcome your situation.

Rest easy knowing Freedom Migrate offers full representation for the entire process. We help you build your case and prepare you for the permanent resident application to follow. Our prices are very reasonable, and we work hard to build a competitive application for you!

Have a question? Send us your submission to freedommigrate@gmail.com or call/ text 587-938-3100 from anywhere in Alberta!

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DECEMBER 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Philanthropy | Communty

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Philanthropy | Heroism | Greetings | Tradition

FRONTLINER ISA KANG BAYANI (YOU’RE A HERO)

JULIUS METEDIOS, Environmental Services at the University of Alberta Hospital; MANYANG REECH, Linen Delivery-K-BRO; and FREDERICK PAHANONOT, Environmental Services at the University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton.

KATHLEEN MARTIN LABIOS, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL DECEMBER 2020 This column aims to recognize and appreciate everyone’s heroism when facing the challenges of life with courage and equanimity. Our society truly needs virtuous people like you. Indeed, we can speak of the truth, though, it may be hard; but we can soften it with kindness.”A grand salute to our heroes!

CLEMENT AQUINO, LOUIE BOYSILLO, and FRACIS UY. They all work in the Environmental Services Department at the University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton.

IAN FERNANDEZ OF LEXUS WEST, Edmonton, Aberta, Canada.

One of the places where frontliners unselfishly and courageously serve.

CELEBRATIONS OF LIFE: Moving Ahead 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 the significant people around. May you all continue to share the gift of life to others. Active co-existence follows essence.

Fr. Jhack Diaz

Gabriel Cereno

Aaron Jabez Velasco

Mervin and Cherry Cereno

Jencet Tupas-Montaño

Abong Tayag

Marianne Cereno-Minano

Ana’s birthday and the blessing of her Resto

From right: Deacon Gem Mella, Ed Gonzales, Lydia Jimenez, Ana De Leon (owner and birthday celebrant), Jencet Montano, Jun Angeles

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Hermo Pagtakhan and Baida Pagtakhan

Monsignor Reymundo Jimenez-Asis Morex Calderon

Hawaiian Poke & More Restaurant’s blessing. Owned and operated by Ana De Leon, it is located along 7256 101 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Deacon Gem Mella officiated the blessing while the rest stood as sponsors.

The blessing of Hawaiian Poke & More Restaurant officiated by Deacon Gem Mella THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

DECEMBER 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Business

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Business

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