Alberta Filipino Journal - December 2022 Issue

Photo source: www.freepik.com @jcomp

AFJ Publisher Jose “Jun” Angeles Awarded Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal P21

New press chief at Legislature is a Filipino

Aveteran Filipino journalist in Edmonton is now the newly minted press secretary of Alberta Deputy Premier MLA Kaycee Madu.

Nicky Gocuan, who writes a column for the Alberta Filipino Journal and hosts the radio program The Fourth Estate over Tala Luvz Radio Calgary, was tapped to head MLA Madu’s communications office. Nicky will be responsible for spearheading the development and implementation of a communications strategy built around the deputy premier’s portfolio and advocacy—he is the province’s Minister of Skilled Trades and Professions.

Before immigrating to Canada, Nicky was an award-winning journalist and news photographer in the Philippines. He was an operations manager for a battery distribution business and a political columnist and radio program host in Alberta before being invited to serve the province as a key member of MLA Madu’s team. Known for his passion and professionalism, Nicky is focused on communicating the provincial government’s plans and programs for skilled trades and professions to Albertans.

Nicky is also a major supporter of Alberta’s fast-growing Filipino community. As MLA Madu’s new press secretary, Nicky says it is especially critical now to ensure that the welfare and well-being of Filipinos—those residing now in the province and those planning to come either as immigrants or foreign workers—are looked after.

Canada, Eh!

More proof of Canada’s kindness, hospitality, and generosity as it welcomes and legitimizes Albert and Erica Dizon’s family as new citizens of this country. Congratulations!

L-R, Front: Luzel, Albert, Ninia; Back: Brent, Bryan, Erica

Published by Angeles Publishing Company Inc. 246 Lindsay Crescent, Edmonton, Alberta T6R 2T2

Jose L. Angeles

Publisher / Chief Operating Officer Sales and Advertising CP: 780-916-7677, Landline: 780-988-8889 Fax: 780-988-2221

publisher@albertafilipinojournal.com

Lito Mendoza Velasco

Editor-in-Chief / Associate Publisher 780-655-5126 editor@albertafilipinojournal.com

Melanie Rose Atizado Angeles

Administrator / Office Manager Sales and Advertising, 780-993-5503 albertafilipinojournal79@gmail.com

Moses Billacura

Sports Editor / Photographer Videographer

Lianne Angeles Associate Editor

Mark Angeles, Mike Angeles Distribution Managers - Edmonton Stephen Burry Distribution Manager - Calgary 1 (587) 938-3100, Freedommigrate@gmail.com

Melanie C. Gomez Website and Graphic Designer

Columnists: Marjorie Carmona-Newman, Tito S. Venida, Ida Beltran-Lucila, Kristian Cereno, Marco Luciano, Mervin Mendoza Cereno, Nicky Gocuan, Giselle General, Januel Cedrick Ibasco, Fr. Jhack Diaz, Bing J. Jaleco

Contributing Writers: Katrina Marielle U. Cereno, Leonila Samarita, Raquel Getigan, Jasmine-Grace Nacu Irvin Bautista, Babylyn Bautista-Felix

Writing and Publishing an Article: A Freedom of Choice and Expression?

EDITOR’S CORNER

Lito Mendoza Velasco

Writing in the newspaper is complete only when the results are shared to the community of readers. Although such sharing can be fulfilled in a variety of formal and informal methods. In the contemporary medium for communicating the results is scientific journal by which information are conveyed throughtechnology: orally, printed, and online.

The journal is an archive of the collected knowledge and information. In any form of media, the messages being disseminated are distilled by the successes and failures, and of course, the points of view being contributed by writers and journalists. The familiarity with and recognition of the previous knowledge and current events allow almost every writer to avoid impertinent and redundant topics that have been expressed and discussed before. So, to establish rapport between the journalists and the community of readers and to contribute something fresh and new, they are expected to expose a credible, well-prepared, carefully-reviewed and originally composed or quoted articles to foster not only growth in the newspaper industry, but, to give due respect to the original authors, designers and artists (manually and graphically).

Writing for publication is not a joke. Though, there are joker writers. Being part of a publication is, most of the time, hard and tedious, yet rewarding—rewarding in the sense that the truth is or can be revealed to the society through bias-free speaking or writings and eventually, freedom of expression. If, of course, accepted and honoured by the editorial board and publisher.

The writing process then, should also require a profound review

and evaluation of previously published and current issues, which would help acquaint one with the field as a whole and establishes whether one’s perspective or opinion is authentic, truly new, and significant.

Very true. Journalists starting the writing process will always find there is no better way to compose, clarify and organize their ideas than by sharing them to the public and receive feedback in return (favourable or otherwise). Thus, the content and writing patterns should conform with the logical thinking, providing statistical data, investigation, and preparation of an article for publication, as they truly are the integral parts of an individual’s effort.

Just as almost all journalists and contributing writers benefit from the publication of their articles, the same must be reciprocated to the publishers or publishing companies.

Several considerations when writing for a publication:

• Both the editorial board and the publisher’s approval must be sought. Considerations are taken into account about the writer’s opinions and about the publisher’s discretion and tradition in which they are to take part of.

• There is consideration on who will get credit, how that credit is given, and what basic content (originality) of the article would be most effective and affective.

Consequently, these considerations, if well-observed, will surely allow writers and would-be writers to see, judge, and act on the thoroughness, clarity, and authenticity of their work and can communicate more effectively with the community of readers within the same tradition and wavelength of thinking.

While it is true that everyone has the right of expression, it is also true that not everyone shares the same strengths. Being aware of one’s limitations is a strength rather than a weakness. Be reminded that freedom merely gives a person the entitlement to move and operate within the boundaries of his property and, at the same time, limit his actions to move freely outside and beyond his comfort zone and territory.

One of the TGP’s Codes of Conduct could be of help to refrain from unreasonably attacking and allegedly accusing others in the community: “In your everyday life, take care of what you say, write, and do, to avoid misinterpretation and lasting misunderstanding.”

Happy Holidays!

Our officers are well compensated, with a starting salary of $67,885 rising to $104,439 after five years service.

At the CPS our greatest asset is our people. They serve as our daily inspiration and pride, all bound by the collective goal of keeping our community safe.

We provide training, education, career development and progression, throughout the course of your career.

Mabuhay ka Joe Medina!

Crosstown Auto Centre told me about their planned two-day basketball tournament featuring the top teams from the various leagues.

The Medina Cup was organized in coordination with the Edmonton Stingers of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL). This kind of collaboration is good for local basketball and I hope that this kind of partnership will last for a long, long time.

The same observation was shared by veteran players, including former professional players from the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).

I love the rivalry of Edmonton and Calgary Pinoy basketball squads because that simply means that organisers will keep on supporting basketball development and continue searching and training young basketeers.

Miracle Massage stops Ilonggo Brothers, 88-86 to rule S-SABC basketball tourney

Moses Billacura mocolumnist @albertafilipinojournal.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 strongly believes that sports development is for all.

There have been various leagues that were organized this year in the Filipino sports community.

I am particularly happy that the first edition of the Medina Cup was successfully organized by the Edmonton United Basketball Association (EUBA) headed by Gary Perpetua.

Coach Chester Tiongson of

Coach Chester said that preparations are underway for 2023 for the second edition of the Medina Cup. By the way, the Medina Cup refers to Crosstown Auto Centre dealer-principal Joe Medina, who has been supporting local basketball development for quite some time now.

Mabuhay ka Joe Medina!

Although, I noticed that there have been two separate tournaments in one city and from what I gathered is a “breakaway” from the original group.

But to set the record straight, you are all welcome to send information to the Alberta Filipino Journal. We will do our best to give you space in our sports page.

I just hope that the Medina Cup will serve as the one that will unify all the teams. You know why? Because I saw how strong the teams from Calgary are during the Jekasa International Sportswear Tournament.

I look forward to having more Alberta-based basketeers who will get the chance to play in the NCAA and UAAP in the Philippines. Not only that, I would love to someday see one Pinoy playing for the Edmonton Stingers.

Right, Joe Medina? Happy Holidays to all! * * *

You probably noticed that I briefly stopped writing my column because I am giving more space to the tournament results of our sports community.

But since this is a year-ending sports column, I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all our news sources for providing information, leads and tips to the sports desk of the Alberta Filipino Journal. Maraming salamat po!

Again, I would like to encourage our readers to keep us posted. We welcome all your information by sending your photos, press releases to mocolumnist@albertafilipinojournal. com.

By Moses Billacura

ST. ALBERT --- Miracle Massage relied on its veteran players to stop the Ilonggo Brothers, 88-86 in the 2022 Servus-St. Albert Ballers Club Basketball Final, November 19, at the Ecole Secondaire St. Albert Catholic High School gym.

It was a close game from the start but Miracle Massage’s big guys delivered in the dying minutes of the final canto.

Jaime Mollenido gave the Ilonggo Brothers the lead, 81-79 but Floyd Eyao and Rhemzon Avila quickly responded with the needed shots, 86-83, 26 seconds remaining to give Miracle some breathing room.

A three-point shot by Ilonggo’s Mark Bando sliced the lead to just one 87-86, but Vincent Nidoy’s free throw once again gave Miracle the lead, 88-86. Mollenido made a desperate shot in the last four seconds but time was not on the side of the

Ilonggo Brothers.

S-SABC commissioner Dominic Narbonita led officials in awarding the trophies and other prizes to the winners.

The scores:

Miracle Message (88) --- Jeric Giron 26, Rhemzon Avila 23, Jester Tandoc 19, Floyd Eyao 11, Vincent Nidoy 11, Karl Gaspar 2, Shawn Cardinal 0, Jason Mejorada 0, Paul Feraren 0, Bryne Dave Manalo 0, Dunn Pangilinan 0, Brian Pera 0, JB Gloria 0.

Ilonggo Brothers (86) --- Paul Redondo 17, Jaime Mollenido 16, Roy Espallardo 13, Mark Cascante 12, Richard Haro 7, Niko Hallare 6, Mark Bando 6, Jake Ngalongalay 5, Jayvee Palmejar 4, MJ Hilado 0, EJ Elisan 0, Ivan Espaldon 0, Chris Cleminter 0.

The Edmonton Elks announced the addition of two players Monday, signing Americans Lyndemian Brooks (RB) and Ronald Ollie (DL).

Brooks played at Prairie View A&M University in 2021, totalling 90 carries for 467 yards and five touchdowns in nine games. Prior to joining the Panthers, the Texas native played five seasons at Grambling State (2016-20), recording 866 yards on 167 carries and five touchdowns.

Ollie spent two seasons at Nicholls State (2016, 2018) where he tallied 74 tackles, 20 tackles for

loss, seven sacks and two fumble recoveries in 22 games for the Colonels. The six-foot-two lineman started his collegiate career at East Mississippi Community College (2014-2015) where he was named All-State Second Team Defense in 2015.

The Mississippi native was one of the stars of the hit Netflix reality show ‘Last Chance U’ during its first season. Ollie attended NFL training camp with the Oakland Raiders in 2019, before signing with the Toronto Argonauts in 2020 and spending time in the CFL team’s training camp in 2021.

Mark Bando (No.22) of the Ilonggo Brothers finds himself closely guarded by Floyd Eyao of Miracle Massage in the final game of the 2022 Servus-St. Albert Ballers Club Basketball Tournament, November 19, at the Ecole Secondaire St.Albert Catholic High School gym. Miracle Massage won the title, 88-86.(Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

Master Bing Grandeza shared his knowledge to son Steve's Red Knights Canada students, who were promoted this month, focusing on Practical Self Defense - Basic Hand to Hand Combat / Basic Unarmed and Armed Defenses.(Red Knights photo)

UMAC Edmonton Cargo Express with team manager Homer Lising (extreme left) ruled the 40 and up division of the 2022 PBAC Winter Basketball Tournament, Dec.17, at the Legacy Athletics gym.(Contributed photo)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Practice of Engineering in Canada from Internationally Educated Engineers (Part 2)

ENGINEER IN ACTION

(a) passing the FE exam (similar to Manitoba if the required no. of technical/confirmatory exams is 5 or less if I am not mistaken) or (b) pass a panel interview (similar to PEO if my engineering work experience is >5 years)?

(Licensee or E.I.T.) I am eligible for, that is why I would like to seek your advice regarding my situation. These are my current credentials: WES accreditation = 4 years bachelor degree

9. It is difficult to write the experience requirement that will comply the 22 Competency Requirements, can you help me on this?

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

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

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

3. Thank you so much for your information and guidance about the WES ICAP Course-by-course evaluation. Since it may take much time and effort to request for the course descriptions and syllabi of each course I took, I am planning to just continue with my WES ICAP Course-by-course evaluation. I will then only submit my application to APEGA if the WES ICAP Course-bycourse evaluation result is favorable to me (that is a 4-yr Bachelor's degree equivalency). If it happens to be equivalent to a 3-yr degree/diploma or below, that is when I will try to appeal to WES (by arguing the result of my WES ECA for IRCC), and send the course descriptions and syllabi of each course I took. May I know your feedback about this plan? Do you think there is a high chance that my 4-yr Bachelor's Degree + 1-yr Postgraduate Diploma based on WES ECA for IRCC might be downgraded once I apply for WES ICAP Course-by-course evaluation?

(Answer) Please take note that if you appeal for re-evaluation to WES you have to pay again. It also takes them several months to have a re-evaluation. The course-by-course subject description is in the student manual. Registrars usually photocopy those depending on your curriculum and stamp them as a certified copy. The syllabus is usually on the school website for every subject that you can download and include in the envelope to be sent to WES. It will not take you one week to complete all those. The more information you give to WES the easier and faster they can evaluate your credentials. This is the same as your post-graduate degree.

4. If APEGA requires me to take technical/confirmatory exams, do you think I can have it waived by

(Answer) If APEGA decides that you take the confirmatory exams (regardless of how many), you have to take them. The only thing you can get away with in the Technical Exams is your WES Evaluation (if "Bachelor Degree"). No panel interview with APEGA. FE Exam is mandatory to all Internationally Educated Engineers regardless of the number of years of Experience outside of Canada.

5. I am an engineer trained in France and I want to apply as a professional engineer here in Canada. I am very grateful for your articles on CSAW. I would like to know if one is obliged to speak about one's professional experience in Canada for the CBAT. I look forward to your response. (Answer) As far as the CBAT (selfassessment) with APEGA - it is a must that you initially check your experience if you will have the required minimum experience before you apply. If you prove that you have this minimum experience requirement you can start applying to APEGA to become a professional engineer here in Canada. Work experience in Canada needs to be written on one-year Canadian Experiences. Other experiences outside of Canada can be included as long as it addresses the 22 Competency Requirements.

6. I just got my degree in Civil Engineering in the Philippines, and am a newcomer here in Calgary, I'm still in the stage of job hunting but no idea how to start my career here in Canada. I just passed my credentials to WES and am still waiting for my school to send my transcripts. I don't have any experience yet, and I'm seeking for you advice.

(Answer) Sad to say for Internationally Educated Engineers who landed in Canada, there are very few options for you to land a job in Engineering. For now, what I advise is to continue your licensing to APEGA through EIT. Try to apply for a job in the field; even drafting works as long as it is connected to Engineering.

Another option for you is to enroll in formal education. If you will be accepted for the Master of Engineering Program, it is the best option. If not, try to explore programs at SAIT that will give you Canadian credentials. If you eventually complete this program, you will have a better chance of landing a job in Engineering.

If you are landed immigrants here, just explore some scholarship or student loans to finance your studies. You can work in some odd jobs in the meantime to earn. But this is only temporary until you find a better job in your field.

7. I saw your articles in Alberta Filipino Journal, while I was studying on how to apply for APEGA membership with foreign credentials. I am a Filipino and have an engineering degree obtained here from the Philippines. For your information, I am currently waiting for my Canada visa approval and am choosing to work in Alberta since my relatives are there. I would like to start to apply for APEGA online while waiting for my visa but I am not sure what kind of membership

Work experience = Total of 5 yearsof work experience in the oil and gas industry

IELTS results = 7.0

I am not sure if I can apply for the APEGA Licensee since it requires 1 year equivalent of Canadian experience. I am afraid that my application will be refused because the application fee is $500, which is kind of expensive.

I hope you could advise me on which membership to apply for. By the way, the website is very helpful and informative.

(Answer) Thank you for reading my Articles. I suggest you apply to be a Professional Member (Professional Engineer). Your education will suffice for the requirements except that you need to pass the Fundamental of Engineering Exams and Professional Ethics Exam when you land here. You need to comply with the One Year Canadian Experience here in Canada in Engineering job to obtain the Professional Engineering License. But take note, I wrote in my November 2019 Article that you need to conduct a self-assessment regarding your experience if it suits the competency requirements. If yes, you can proceed, if not, you need to first gain the experience required that addresses the Competencies. It is a waste of time and money if your experience quality does not qualify for the competencies. For these competencies, I gave some examples in my past articles on how this will be addressed. (5 parts of articles in the previous months).

8. Why does the World Education Services (WES) evaluate my academic diploma in the Philippines as graduate of Bachelor of Science in Engineering (major) as only equivalent to a 2-year Diploma in Canada?

(Answer) WES evaluates the education of the applicant based on the documents you have submitted. This includes your Transcript of Record (TOR) and Diploma mailed directly by your College/University where you graduated. Take note, that TOR listed the subject code and the name of the subject you took during your tertiary education side by side with the grade score you achieved. The evaluator looks only on the similarity of the subject name to its Canadian equivalent and will not merit favorable equivalents if the subject is far different from those courses or subjects that are offered in the Canadian Curriculum. So, it is advisable to include the course and subject description and the syllabus of each subject when submitting your documents to WES.

Philippine secondary education (high school) is only 4 years which totals to 10 years from Grade 1. In Canada, the total years of basic education is 12 years. The Math and Science subjects for those who graduated in the Philippines will not be sufficient to merit the number of hours that are required to have a Canadian education equivalent because of these total years of basic education.

Hence, it is recommended to submit as many document and courses you took from your University to prove that you have enough Science and Math subjects. If you have Post-Graduate studies (Master Degree) this will greatly help in advancing your Education Credential Requirements.

(Answer) In the past Articles that I wrote in the Alberta Filipino Journal, you can find the 5-part series where I gave Examples on how to write your Experience that addresses the 22 Competencies. These are from May 2019 to September 2019, that you can find in the Alberta Filipino Journal. Take note that writing and documenting your experience must be specific and not a copy-paste approach. Every experience is unique for each individual. Your experience depends on your field of Engineering and depend on how you are employed from your previous and present company. It is a matter of understanding the 22 Competencies and recalling all your experiences during the performance of your job. Somewhere and somehow, you applied for all those competencies.

10. Can I start my application even before I land as immigrant to Canada? (Answer) Yes. It is better to start your application then. Comply with all the Education requirements and submit all necessary experience requirements including the references. Once you land in Canada, by that time – there are already decisions to take the Fundamentals of Engineering Exams, take the National Professional Practice Exams and comply with the One Year Canadian Experience – that is if you have more than 48 months of Engineering prior to immigrating to Canada.

11. I do not have the required 48 months of Engineering Experience because I just graduated from my Engineering degree outside of Canada. Can I start my application to APEGA as Engineer-in-Training? (Answer) Yes. You can start your application to APEGA and eventually become an EIT. You must have the minimum of 48 months of Engineering Experience under the Supervision of a Professional Engineer to eventually become a Professional Engineer. If APEGA gives you EIT

status, it is likely that your Education requirements are already satisfied and you need to complete and comply with your Engineering Experience Requirements eventually.

12. How long is the application process to grant the Professional Member Status?

(Answer) There are many factors that will contribute to the delay of your application. Ideally, when all documents are submitted on time and all exam requirements are complied with according to the ideal timeline – a total of 12 months process is doable. But for Internationally Educated Engineers, where you need to have to take your Fundamental of Engineering Exams (FE) or Technical Exams (if required) –these are the most time consuming in the entire process and entirely dependent on the Applicant. If you have completed a Canadian Engineering Experience already (as Immigrant in Canada) and you eventually decide to apply to APEGA, this will shorten your time of application.

13. How much is the total estimated cost I am expecting to spend for the entire application process?

(Answer) The total amount is variable and depends on each situation. After the Board of Examiner’s decision that the Applicant has to take the Fundamentals of Engineering Exams (FE) only and not the Technical Exams, you are looking at about CA$1,500 total estimated expenses. But if you are to take the Technical Exams, you can expect an average of CA$250 per subject. This will cost you more depending on the number of subjects the BOE will tell you to take.

The above questions are just some of what I received in the last months. It is very true that the Alberta Filipino Journal reaches more readers as we launch the website and help more people to continue their Profession and eventually be part of the growing community of immigrants. Keep reading AFJ.

WORLD CHAMPIONS

Team Canada presented by Sobeys are crowned WORLD CHAMPIONS after beating Australia in the Davis Cup Finals. Félix Auger-Aliassime, Gabriel Diallo, Alexis Galarneau, Vasek Pospisil, Denis Shapovalov and Team Captain Frank Dancevic's amazing run in Malaga marks Canada's first ever Davis Cup Title.

My Priorities for Edmonton’s 2023–2026 Budget

fill, after nearly 40 years of lacking investment. Thanks to AHIP grants, City Council approved 10 affordable projects and 823 affordable homes spread to every corner of Edmonton in 2022.

For every dollar the City invested in housing, we are able to leverage four dollars from other orders of government, including nearly $200 million in funding from other orders of government and $351 million in equity from providers, resulting in a direct investment of $689 million.

employment options for those who can’t drive, cuts down on traffic congestion, and cuts down on the wear and tear of our existing roads. I hope that Council properly funds the budget packages that support low GHG transport options and investments to electrify our own City vehicles.

great opportunities, to funding sports, cultural community groups, and festivals, I want to make sure this budget benefits the frontline workers, and organizers in our city’s arts, culture, and tourism industries.

Support for Community Groups

from many groups who depend on contributions from the City to bring their programming, events, support, and experience to our community. I hope my council colleagues will support me in providing funding to these groups to support the work they are already doing.

Mayor Amarjeet Sohi

Sohi’s

Desk

By Mayor Amarjeet Sohi

This budget is City Council’s biggest opportunity to fund the Edmonton you want to live in.

Following weeks of combing over the 2023–2026 Operating, Capital, Utility, and Carbon Budgets, and hearing from more than 200 speakers at public hearing, I want to tell Edmontonians my thoughts and vision for the next four years.

During the last election, you gave me the mandate to keep taxes affordable and below the rate of inflation. Over the past 5 years, the previous City Council has approved some of the lowest tax increases in the country, including a tax freeze in 2021. While this can help ease shortterm cost pressures on taxpayers, it also pushes funding issues into the future.

When municipal tax rates do not keep pace with inflation and population growth, Edmontonians see the effects of our restrained spending through the backlog of renewal projects, higher costs for deferred projects and services getting spread thinner as the city grows.

When I first looked at the proposed budget, I was pleased to see a strong commitment to anti-racism and reconciliation, a commitment to advance TRC recommendations and MMIWG2S+ calls to action. But, I was also disappointed that I did not see an adequate focus on housing, climate change and economic development.

This leaves Council with a very difficult job if we want to see these priorities funded. I want to be very clear with Edmontonians about what I hope to see from the budget as we go through deliberations over the next two weeks.

Housing

Roughly 49,000 Edmonton households (one in seven) pay more than a third of their income to housing. For renters, that number is one in four.

One of the key changes made in the past four years was the City of Edmonton’s Affordable Housing Strategy and The Affordable Housing Investment Program (AHIP) 2019–2022 which provided a pathway to implementing the strategy. This program continues to address the gap in deep and shallow subsidy housing that Edmonton has just started to

The Budget Pathway: Because of our commitment to building affordable housing over the past four years, the City has surpassed its targets, supporting 2,728 affordable housing units, including 644 supportive housing units. This proposed budget does not include Capital or Operational Funding to keep us on track with our housing goals. But in order to keep making progress, we have to continue to prioritize housing.

I support adequate funding for housing and houselessness supports that our city desperately needs. I hope Council will agree and move to fully fund the Affordable Housing Investment Program capital growth, grant program, and the housing and homelessness operating supports that have been life-changing for hundreds of Edmontonians.

Climate

The risks and costs of climate change increase with every degree of additional warming that our planet faces. A study specific to Edmonton revealed that climate change could cause us direct annual costs, such as damaged infrastructure, of approximately $3.2B by the 2050s, and $7.4B by the 2080s. This research also identified that climate change could cause an additional 22,000 climate-related health episodes in Edmonton annually by the 2050s. But responding to the Climate Emergency is not just about prices, it’s about people.

Edmonton is on the leading edge when it comes to identifying the problem and mapping the way for climate change mitigation and adaptation. This can be seen in our robust strategies and implementation plans like the Community Energy Transition Strategy (2021), Climate Resilient Edmonton: Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan (2018), and Carbon Budget (2022). We have made great plans as a City and have even started implementation, but in order to keep our momentum going, this City Council must fund climate action in this budget.

Last week, a number of Edmontonians spoke at Public Hearing to ask the City to do our part on combating climate change. I was struck by their stories, particularly the stories from many of the youth that presented. This budget has to work for taxpayers today, but it also must adequately fund climate action for the Edmontonians of tomorrow.

The Budget Pathways: I strongly support investing in active transportation infrastructure and public transit to serve Edmontonians looking for a more cost-effective and sustainable option. Investing in equitable modes of transport opens

We also know that buildings account for 46% of Edmonton’s carbon footprint and reducing their energy consumption is a major pathway to hitting our emission-reduction targets. Greening our buildings means lower utility costs, more comfortable homes, and a strong market for local green jobs. Council needs to add the necessary funds to support building retrofit for City buildings, upgrades, and incentives for homeowners to retrofit their homes.

Economic + Cultural Vibrancy Edmonton accounts for about a substantial part of Alberta’s GDP, we are home to more than 30,000 businesses, and have world-class tech, health, agriculture, and energy industries. This budget needs to re-enforce that Edmonton is open for business and that we are one of the best places to invest in Canada.

I am particularly interested in capitalizing on our affordable land and highly skilled workforce to gain a larger industrial tax base for the city. Edmonton should be the choice location for companies and startups across the globe. We are starting to see our recent efforts to attract business to our region pay off with the newly announced $1.6B Air Products facility, $40M investment for a new facility for Polykar, Siwin Foods $54M expansion, and the 236% growth of Edmonton’s innovation ecosystem since 2020.

The Budget Pathway: The City can set the table for consistent investment both by incentivizing businesses to move here and by creating supports to help them along the way. My goal is to strategically invest in infrastructure projects that will improve connectivity and accessibility to industrial land to make it more plug-and-play for companies looking to expand to Edmonton. This will increase our employment opportunities and industrial tax base.

My goal for this budget is to also demonstrate that Edmonton welcomes innovation. I will make the case to create innovation incentives like the $5M Edge Fund that will support start-ups and small businesses and fill the gap in capital in our local market.

Economic vibrancy is also dependent on a well-funded Arts and Culture sector. We know that investments in tourism, culture, and nonprofits are investments that keep our city welcoming and competitive.

The Budget Pathway: To maintain the vibrancy of our City’s cultural sector, we must support the organizations that are already doing this important work. Even though a smaller funding request in the context of a $3 billion budget doesn’t seem like much, we can’t let funding requests from arts and culture groups fall through the cracks. From ensuring artists have

While I am pleased to see support for anti-racism and Indigenous reconciliation, we need to do more to support community-based organizations that are serving equity-seeking groups and advancing our goal of building an Edmonton for all of us.

The Budget Pathways: Council heard

I encourage Edmontonians to continue writing to my office and to your City Councillor as we go through the budget process over the next two weeks. I deeply value the opinions of Edmontonians and will work to ensure this 4-year budget fully funds an Edmonton for all of us.

What to do if you're a victim of fraud

Collect your thoughts

Stay calm. Gather all information about the fraud, including:

• documents

• receipts

• copies of emails and/or text messages

Contact your financial institutions Report the incident to the financial institution that transferred the money.

If you're a victim of identity fraud:

• place flags on all of your accounts

• change all of your passwords

• report the fraud to both credit bureaus (Equifax and TransUnion)

Contact the police

Report the incident to your local police and get a file number for future reference. If you find suspicious activity on your credit report, update your file with the police.

Report the incident

Contact the Canadian AntiFraud Centre toll free at 1-888495-8501 or through the Fraud Reporting System.

Depending on the type of fraud, or how it occurred, you'll also want to report it to other organizations.

Fraud that took place online through a website Report the incident directly to the administrators of the website. You can do so through a link such as "Report Abuse" or "Report an Ad".

Redirected mail

If you suspect that someone had your mail re-directed, contact Canada Post.

You should also notify your service provider (telephone, cell phone, electricity, water, gas, etc.) of the identity fraud.

Lost, stolen, or misused immigration documents Please contact Citizenship and

Immigration Canada if:

• your immigration documents have been lost or stolen

• you suspect someone is fraudulently using them

Lost or stolen passport

If your passport is lost or stolen, report the incident to Passport Canada and to your local police.

If you are outside of Canada, you must report the loss or theft to the nearest Canadian government office abroad.

Stolen Social Insurance Number Learn what to do if you suspect someone is using your Social Insurance Number (SIN).

Lost or stolen provincial or territorial identity documents These documents include:

• your birth certificate

• your driver's license

• your health card

• other documents issued by a province or territory

Please contact the province or territory that issued the document if:

• the document has been lost or stolen

• you believe someone is fraudulently using this information

You can find contact information on provincial and territorial government websites.

Protect yourself from future fraud

Scammers often target victims of fraud a second or third time with the promise of recovering money. Always do your due diligence and never send recovery money.

Share any updates with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, your financial institutions and police.

Tell family, friends, neighbours and co-workers about your experience. You may prevent someone else from becoming a victim.

From Mayor

Ang Aking Pasko

Lito Mendoza Velasco

Pamaskong Awitin

Pasko na... Ang Pasko ay sumapit... Sa may bahay ang aming bati... Bago sumapit ang Pasko... Simbang Gabi... Natanaw na sa Silangan, ang Talang-Patnubay...

Ang mga awiting ito ang nagbibigay kulay sa pagdiriwang ng Kapaskuhan. Ang mga himig na Pamasko ang tunay na tagapag-paalaala kung saan tayo naroroon, anong uri na ng buhay ang ating niyayakap, at sino na ating mga kasama. Sapilitang ibabalik tayo ng mga awitin sa ating lumang buhay. May kislap sa mga mata at ngiti sa ating mga labi; tuturuan tayong magbalik-tanaw sa lahat ng uri ng masasaya at nakalulungkot din namang karanasan.

Noong mga paslit pa lang tayo, kasama ang ating mga kababata, nagtitipon upang mag-karoling; ang iba ay may dalang basket, nagbabahaybahay, nagmamano upang mamasko at manghingi ng konting aginaldo; ang iba naman ay makikita mo na agad sa kanto, ipinagkakara-krus na ang napamaskuhan. Maaala-ala rin natin kung kelan tayo nagkait o nagtago sa mga namamasko, ganundin naman ay yong ninong at ninang nating galante, pati na rin yong mga kuripot. Matatandaan din natin kung kelan tayo nakapagregalo at niregalohan; kung kelan tayo nainggit dahil sa ang ibang bata ay isang-tambak ang laruan, magagarang damit at mga masasarap na pagkain (lalo na pag noche buena at media noche).

Misa de gallo sa simbahan (Simbang gabi). Sa mga kabataan noon, ang tawag nila dito ay Sintang Gabi Dahil ito ang pagkakataon

upang makasama sa madaling araw, magka-hawak kamay (holding hands) habang naglalakad patungo sa simbahan ang mga nililigawan at nagiging Kasintahan. Ang sayasaya di ba?

"Yehey, Krismasan na!" (Christmas Party!) Tiyak na hindi natin makakalimutan ang mga panahon na ito. Taun-taon, mula kinder hanggang grade six, at kahit nga malalaki na tayo, ipinagbabalot pa rin tayo ng ating mga nanay o tatay ng panregalo para sa monito at monita natin (exchanging gifts).

Hay, kay sarap balikan ng mga ala-ala ng Masaganang Pasko at Manigong Bagong Taon sa ating buhay. Alin kaya sa mga awiting pamasko ang kahit kelan ay hindi pwedeng burahin sa ating isipan? Kung kayo ay wala, ako ay meron, at ito yon: Bago sumapit ang pasko, namimili ang mommy ko, Nang mga panregalo, para sa araw ng Pasko.

At ito namang aking daddy, gumagawa ng Christmas Tree, Sasabitan ko naman, ng laruan at mga kendi...

Subali't ito ay pawang ala-ala na lamang. Oo, buhay pa ang nanay ko. Pero nasa Pilipinas naman.

Ang tatay ko naman ay lumisan na at kasama ng Maykapal. Ang dating Christmas Tree na ginagawa niya at sinasabitan ko ng mga laruan ay nagbago na. Tila mapapalitan na ng rehas na bakal, at ang nakasabit ay ang aking mga braso at kamay. Oh, di kaya naman ay inuusig ng ang sariling budhi dahil sa mga responsibilidad na hindi

natugunan. Oh, di kaya naman, ay napakarami na talagang sabit (hindi ng mga palamuti, kundi ng utang at iba pang mga bisyo)? Nararamdaman n'yo ba ang nararamdaman ko? Lalo na kung nag-iisa ka lang dito sa araw ng Pasko?

Kung noon, may nanay, tatay, ate, kuya, tito, tita, lolo, at lola, na nag-aasikaso sa mga pangangalilangan natin tuwing kapaskuhan; kung may ninong at ninang tayong inaasahan na magbibigay sa ating mganinanais na regalo; ngayon ay nabago na ang ikot ng mundo. Kung noon, sagana tayo sa mga halik at yakap ng dulot ng pagmamahal mula sa kanila; ngayon, tayo na ang inaasahang gagawa at tutugon samga bagay na dati nating tinanggap at tinamasa. Maaaring tayo na ang kuya, ate, tatay, nanay, lolo, at lola. Tayo na rin ang ninong at ninang! May drama at ma-drama ang buhay, di ba? Para tayong nasa tanghalan. Napakarami nating papel na dapat gampanan.

Ganunpaman, batas ito ng buhay at ng mabuhay sa mundong ibabaw. Ang tanong ko lamang: "kelan ba natin huling niyakap at hinalikan ang ating mga nanay at tatay upang tahasang ipinadama na tunay natin silang mahal?" Kailangan ba talaga ang Pasko para yumakap, humalik, at magmano?

Tulad ng isang awit, ang Pasko ay may aral.

Minsan, sa Universtiy of Perpetual Help, Laguna, Philippines, nagkaroon ako ng estudyante na putol ang dalawang kamay at ang isa naman ay putol ang dalawang paa. Magpapasko noon, at tinanong ko ang ibang magaaral kung ano ang nais nila para sa pasko: "Sapatos lang para sa akin

ayos na sir!" "Ah, medyo taglamig sir, nais ko ng Jacket." Halata kong nagmula sa di mariwasang pamilya ang mga ganitong estudyante na may ganitong pangarap. Tinapunan ko ng pansin ang dalawa kong estudyante na aking binanggit: Putol ang mga paa ng isa, at ang isa ay putol ang braso mula sa may balikat. Nakatungo sila at halata mo ang kalungkutan. Bakit kaya? Hindi ba obvious? Gustuhin man ng isa ang sapatos, ay wala namang paa; gustuhin man ng isa ang Jacket eh wala namang mga braso at kamay. Hindi ako nagsalita. Napatingin ang kanilang mga ka-klase sa dalawa nilang kamag-aral na may kapansanan. Lumuluha ang dalawa. Sila ang naging tuunan ng pansin ng lahat. Walang nakapagsalita. Subalit ang aming katahimikan ang nagsilbing isang ingay na nakabibingi ang mensahe. Naging gabay ng buong klase ang sitwasyong ito upang bumuo ng mga kasabihan para sa kapaskuhan: Ito ang una, "Ngayong Pasko, Bawal ang Inggitero!" Pangalawa, "Huwag maghangad ng labis sa kakayahan!"

Ang Pasko ay araw ng Hustisya, Pagpapatawad, Pagbibigayan, at Busilak na Pag-ibig

Magbigay kung ano ang kailangan ng binibigyan, at hindi kung ano yong hindi mo na kailangan. Pagpapatawad para sa mga tumatanggap ng pagkakamali. Hindi rin naman isang tanong kung ano ang ibinibigay, kundi gaanong pagmamahal ang kalakip ng pagbibigay. At laging tandaan, na ang tunay na sukatan ng pag-ibig ay umibig ng walang sukatan.

Tandaan din natin ang sinambit sa isang awiting pamasko: "Natanaw na, sa silangan; Ang Talang-Patnubay...” Ibig sabihin, tayo ay maaaring nasa kanluran, timog, o hilaga. Ibat-iba ang pinagmulan, nang pamilya at lahing kinabibilangan, at maging ng mga personal na kagustuhan. Subalit iisa lamang ang mensahe ng kapaskuhang ipinagdiriwang. At iyon ay ang katotohanang ang Diyos ng pag-ibig, kaligayahan, katarungan, kapatawaran, at pagbibigayan ay sumasa-atin.

Resources on Leisure and Recreation

Giselle General gqgeneral@gmail.com

Leisure and recreation are not simply about playing or having fun (though it is a huge benefit), but it is also crucial for one’s physical, mental, social and emotional health. Finding an activity, whether it is athletic, creative, educational, structured or flexible that is engaging and enjoyable should be integrated into our lives. However, sometimes it can be challenging to find options that suit one’s location, budget, and availability.

This short list of resources can help with getting started.

Recreational Sports

1. Edmonton Sports and Social Club: This organization offers a variety of sport experiences that focuses on the “fun first, winning second” mindset. They organize leagues and tournaments for different sports and events where there’s something for everyone no matter what skill level. Join as an individual or form teams to participate. The website is www.

edmontonsportsclub.com

2. Community Leagues in Your Neighbourhood: Every neighbourhood in Edmonton has a community league, which provides different programs, activities and events that are close to home. You can go to www.efcl. org and search for the community league in your area to find out what activities are happening.

3. Recreation Directory for Seniors: This is for Older Adults, which covers people aged 55 and older. There are many programs and activities for fun, fitness and fellowship hosted by different organizations all over the city. The Edmonton Seniors Coordinating Council has a specific directory for those interested in this: https://www.seniorscouncil.net/ recreation-directory

Events To Attend

1. Explore Edmonton Events Calendar: Explore Edmonton is an initiative that aims to highlight Edmonton as an incredible place to visit and explore. Their event calendar is a great resource to find out about upcoming events and

activities, including unique ones you haven’t heard of before. The website is https://exploreedmonton.com/ event-calendar

2. City of Edmonton Events Calendar: This event calendar is a great way to check out popular events hosted by different organizations in Edmonton, as well as activities that are availably on a regularly scheduled basis for a period of time, such as exhibits and festivals. The calendar also includes the different activities and events for public engagement, as in, when the city wants to connect with everyday Edmontonians and gather input on different projects they are doing. The link is edmonton.ca/attractions_ events/schedule_festivals_events/ events-calendar.aspx

Leisure Programs for People with Disabilities

1. Alberta AdaptAbilities Association: This organization runs various programs to provide recreation for people with disabilities. They have programs at their location as well as in-home services so that the person with the disability can enjoy

an activity while caregivers have a chance to rest. The website is www. adaptabilities.ca and the phone number is 780-431-8446

2. Paralympic Sports Association: The Paralympic Sports Association (PSA) is a charitable, volunteerdriven, organization that provides sport and recreation opportunities for children, youth, teens, adults and seniors living with disability, as well as their family and friends. They have programs for different ages and are located in Edmonton

and other major areas in Alberta. The website is www.parasports.net. While this is no way an exhaustive list, the goal is to encourage seeking out information and assistance for any type of challenge, no matter how big or small, how common or uncommon. For any readers who are not directly served by the area where the outlined organizations are listed, it is likely that equivalents are available by searching the topic and adding the name of your location.

Professionalism

By Maria Lourdes Angeles-Rivera

Professionalism involves being reliable, setting your own high standards, and showing that you care about every aspect of your job. It's about being industrious and organized, and holding yourself accountable for your thoughts, words, and actions.

A person doesn’t have to work in a specific profession to demonstrate the important qualities and characteristics of a professional. Professionalism leads to workplace success, a strong professional reputation and high levels of work ethics and excellence.

Here are 12 ways to develop and practice professionalism:

1. Be productive Use your time productively at work.

Focus on your job responsibilities and avoid getting pulled into social media, web browsing and phone activity while on the clock.

2. Develop a professional image Project a professional presence and dress appropriately for your industry and organization. A good rule of thumb is to dress in the position you aspire to have.

3. Take the initiative Ask for more projects to be given to you or think of assignments that will meet your organization's goals. You don’t want to be under-utilized.

4. Maintain effective work habits Prioritize, plan, and manage your assignments and projects. Follow up and follow through with your supervisor and team members.

5. Manage your time efficiently

Establish priorities, set goals, and create action plans to meet deadlines.

6. Demonstrate integrity Be accountable for your work and actions while always behaving ethically.

7. Provide excellence

Produce work and results that reflect a sense of pride and professionalism, often exceeding expectations.

8. Be a problem-solver When you run into problems and obstacles take the time to brainstorm a few solutions and alternatives before you meet with your supervisor.

9. Be resilient

Develop coping skills to manage setbacks and challenges with a positive and constructive attitude.

10. Communicate effectively Practice professional on-line, in -person and interpersonal communication skills.

11. Develop self-awareness

Dayuhang Mag-aaral sa Canada

Ang Pulso ng Dayuhang Pilipino.

Internasyunal na mag-aaral mula sa Pilipinas, kumukuha ng Kursong Early Learning Child and Care Program Diploma sa Norquest College. Mayroong Level 1 Certification bilang Early Childhood Educator. Mahigit 20 taon ang kararanasan sa pagtuturo at propersyunal na guro sa pamantasan sa wikang Filipino at panitikan ng Pilipinas. Gayundin ay nakatapos ng akademikong yunits sa Pilosopiyang pangEdukasyon ng educational leadership ang espesyalisasyon. Aktibong miyembro at naging pangulo ng Lubang at Looc International College Scholarship Alumni Association na naglilingkod sa komunidad at socio- civic na gawain sa Lubang at Looc, Occidental Mindoro.

Malaking desisyon at mahabang panahon ang ginugol sa pagpapasya para maging isang dayuhang mag-aaral sa Canada. Hindi biro ang pagaayos ng mga dokumento mula sa paaralang papasukan, at kahingian ng Immigration na nagpapatagal sa aplikasyon para makompleto ang lahat ng ito. Dito nagsimula ang journey ng pagiging dayuhang mag-aaral. Pagkatapos maiayos lahat ng kailangan sa eskwelahan, embahada at mga personal na kahingian ay sumunod naman ang mga maiiwan at dadatnan sa Canada. Tunay na napakahirap Iwan

ang buong pamilya kung ikaw ay makikipagsapalaran sa Ibang bansa. Ngunit, masarap pakinggan kapag alam mo naiayos mo sila bago mo iwanan. Mahigpit na mahigpit na yakap sa magulang, paalala sa mga kapatid at kaibigan, matagal na halik sa anak na iiwan. Kulang yata ang balde kung sasahurin ang luha bago ka matuloy sa pagpapaalam. Hindi kasi natin alam kung ano kahihinatnan ng ating buhay. Buhat sa mga pangaral at habilin nila ay babaunin mo upang ikaw ay magtagumpay. Habang lulan naman ng eroplano ay may kaba sa kung anong madaratnan. Iniisip ang matitirhan at buhay na laang naghihintay. Kaya’t sa mataas na himpapapwid, napakalayong tanaw at malalim na buntong hininga ang sa akin. Maraming naobserbahan at naipagkumpara sa dating kinagisnan sa Pilipinas. Ibang-iba rito sa Canada, bukod sa temperatura ay maraming taong kakaiba. Magagalang at mapagpahalaga sa pamilya. Nakakatuwa ang mga kababayan, Hindi nagpapahuli sa kumustahan at sa pagtulong ay tunay na kahanga-hanga. Kultura dito ay iyon dapat makasanayan upang mabilis makapag-adjust sa iyong pupuntahan. Huwag isipin ang lahat ng bagay bagkus pag-aralan kung ano ang kalakaran.

Ito ang mga ilang aking pinanghahawakan upang buhay ay maipagpatuloy gayundin ang aking pag-aaral. Maganda ang patakaran lalo na sa paghahanp buhay, ilang buwan din ako namili ng

papasukan para masustentuhan ang aming pangangailangan. Ilang linggo rin nanghanap ang OWP o Open work permit kung kabiyak at sa pagdako ay magandang pagtatrabahuan ang naibigay. Siguro nga kapag sa inyo nakalaan magaan ang paglalakbay, pakikipagsapalaran sa iyong ay tunay na ibibigay. Hayaan natin siya, ang Maykapal ang lumakad at magpasya sa ating patutunguhan. Ipaubaya natin sa kanya ang tunay na laan para sa atin. Sabi nga sa wikang Ingles, BTS (Believe, Trust, Surrender). Magtiwala ka na Hindi ka dadalhin dito para sa Wala lamang at Ipaubaya ang lahat sa kanya kung ano mabuti ng kapalaran ang laan sa iyo dito sa Canada. Sa kabuuan bilang dayuhang mag-aaral ay ang determinasyonsa pagsisikap na matupad ang iyong mga plano at layunin mo makapagtapos ng pag aaral dito. Sa iyong dedikasyon ay makakamit mo rin ang iyong pangarap sa pamilyang naghihintay at umaasang babalikan at susuklian mo sila ng kaginhawaan sa buhay. Sa huli, Huwag ka maging Dayuhan sa Ibang bansa bagkus maging katuwang ka nila sa pagunlad at pagsisikap na maging matatag ang bawat ekonomiya na sa kanilang pinaghahanap at maging malakas ang paninindigan sa pamilyang pinanghahawakan. “Isa lamang tayo at sa pag-iisa natin bilang tao marami tayong magagawa sa mundo”

Learn to manage your emotions and gain awareness of your emotional triggers so you can manage your reactions positively and productively. Accept and reflect on feedback to assist as you learn and grow.

VIEWPOINT

12. Build relationships Network with colleagues, customers, and clients to build professional cordial relationships, work on teams and collaborate effectively.

and skepticism. In turn, these weaken the moral fabric of a society and creates social divisions that can easily spiral into something more toxic. Imagine a society where no one cares about anyone anymore, where we stop helping our neighbors because we believe it is no longer a worthwhile thing to do.

A season of receiving

CHRISTMAS, we’ve been taught since childhood, is a season of giving. And that’s just fine, as we should all embrace the virtue of generosity. We should give to the needy, and donate not just money but time and commitment to the advocacies that are near and dear to us.

But this should also be the season of receiving. Selfish as that sounds, it is nevertheless something we should give a little more thought to. And the reason why it should be a season of receiving is that generosity is one of the most abused virtues, a trait that sometimes gives people the green light to take advantage of the kind and gentle souls. We’ve been told time and again to be generous to others, often at our own expense.

I hate people taking advantage of others. Witnessing fraudsters and scammers prey on the generous is annoying and even infuriating. But most of all, it lessens my faith in humanity and breeds indifference

One of the most endearing concepts of Christmas is that of reward and punishment. Since childhood we’ve heard the carols and the jingles about Santa Claus checking if children had been naughty or nice. Naughty and nice has since evolved into good and evil, kind and cruel, generous and selfish. And as Christmas comes ‘round the bend, I am reminded of just how relevant this concept is, and how it could be key to making this world a better place. We should all learn to hold people accountable for their actions. For far too long, we’ve accepted the notion that Christmas is the season where we forget transgressions and overlook faults. Admittedly, this makes us feel good inside. But is there merit in this attitude in the first place? Why should we turn a blind eye to a wrongdoing just because it is Christmas?

No one is perfect, and we all have our faults and weaknesses. This much should be acknowledged. But I know too many people who take advantage of the generosity of kind souls and get away with it because they understand how genuine generosity and kindness work. Good people are simply too nice to hold them accountable for their misdeeds.

So for this Christmas, let’s do ourselves a favor and start thinking about how to be considerate to ourselves first and foremost and not be too quick to overlook a transgression. Bad people are always emboldened to commit their misdeeds over and over when the victims are too passive to call them out. We should all receive the gift of holding the naughty accountable for any wrong they may have done. Let’s be kind and generous to everyone, but let’s start with ourselves. Good people should always deserve better.

Babylyn Bautista-Felix

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.

Bing J. Jaleco bingjaleco@yahoo.com

"For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood."

FROM A VANTAGE POINT

The Danger Of Association With Wicked Men.

The danger of association with wicked men is their mad rush to more and more evil. No matter your desire to avoid sin and wickedness, their enticing invitations and the power of peer pressure will be too much to resist. You will go down with them, and go down they certainly will. Solomon made this clear before ending the parable (Proverbs 1:17-19).

The Consequences Of Sin.

Blood on FIFA World Cup

In my visit to Bangkok and the Philippines, bars are filled with football fans watching their favorite teams. As we get closer to the end of World Cup football with four teams remaining to compete for the coveted World Cup, many do not know that the stadium in Qatar was built by migrant workers over ten years when Qatar won their bid to hold the soccer competition there. And over the years thousands of migrants die of exhaustion and heat. Below is the statement of the International Migrants Alliance on the issue. I had a privilege to attend the Alliance’s 5th Assembly in Bangkok on November 30th to December 4th.

FIFA 2022 and the tragedy of fallen migrant workers in Qatar

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.

Fools And Sinners.

Fools cannot quit folly. Sinners cannot stop sinning. They run with haste to more wickedness rather than walk. They greedily rush to satisfy their evil lusts (Ephesians 4:17-19). Because of this trait, young men should stay as far from fools and sinners as possible.

A Warning From A Loving Father.

After introducing the book of Proverbs (Proverbs 1:1-9), Solomon wrote a parable warning his son about the grave danger of evil associations (Proverbs 1:10-19). Foolish friends destroy more young men than any other factor. The parable describes a band of cutthroats seeking to entice a young man to join them, and Solomon told his son where such fools are headed.

Being asked to join a band of cutthroats is extreme, but consider the temptation for young men to join gangs in high schools or city ghettos, immoral college fraternities, subversive military or political organizations, the KKK, the Masonic Lodge, the Communist Party, labor unions, and other societies of men pursuing a wide variety of equally evil goals.

Sin does not know contentment. One sin is not enough. After breaking a commandment of God and tasting the fruit of forbidden pleasures, it must have more. The heart becomes hardened, the conscience is seared, the lusts are inflamed, and the mind cannot forget the stolen thrills. The downhill rush to destruction has begun. What will stop the sinners?

You cannot reform wicked friends. Instead, the wicked friends will corrupt your good manners (I Corinthians 15:33). The safety of wisdom is simple: do not even start friendships with fools (Proverbs 1:10; 4:14-17; Psalms 1:1-3). If you have foolish friends, forsake them immediately (Proverbs 9:6; 13:20; 14:7). This rule is crucial for survival and success (Proverbs 2:10-22).

Conclusion.

Only God can change fools, which He did gloriously in the case of Saul of Tarsus (Titus 3:3-5). If you think you can change them, you are gravely mistaken. Be not deceived (I Corinthians 15:33)! Another proverb concludes, “Though thou shouldest bray a fool in a mortar among wheat with a pestle, yet will not his foolishness depart from him” (Proverbs 27:22). Even Paul avoided those without faith and the fear of God (II Thessalonians 3:1-2; II Timothy 3:1-5).

The lesson is simple and weighty. Foolish friends will destroy any man. Therefore, reject all worldly friends for the friends of the King of Zion (Psalms 101:1-8; 119:63, 79; 144:1115; Titus 1:8). You can find them in the local church that exalts apostolic doctrine and practice, where you can exhort and help each other to greater faith and obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ.

Statement of the International Migrants Alliance on worsening situation of migrant workers in Qatar

Years after the deaths of more than 6,500 migrant workers between 2010 and 2020 in Qatar, FIFA continues to fail in its promise to bring justice to victims’ families.

Since Qatar clinched its bid to host the FIFA World Cup in 2010,

FIFA and the Qatar government have employed thousands of migrant workers for the construction of state-of-the-art stadiums and infrastructure for the event. Qatar is reported to have spent more than $200 billion and increased the recruitment of migrant workers by 65% in the years leading to the 2022 World Cup.

Migrant workers now constitute at least 77% of the Qatari population and 90% of its labor force, per the 2022 International Organization for Migration report. Migrant workers come mostly from South Asia.

In the last 12 years, the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar has been mired with controversy and faced with outrage as migrant workers and their families decried inhumane labor conditions, wage theft, slave-like labor conditions and mysterious deaths. Recently, FIFA drew flak anew as its promised “Legacy Fund” for migrant workers failed to materialise.

“FIFA’s goal is profits, at the expense of migrant workers’ lives. We condemn in strongest terms the FIFA and the Qatari government for their continued criminal neglect over the worsening living and working conditions of migrant workers in the country,” said Eni Lestari, chairperson of the International Migrants Alliance (IMA), a global alliance of more than 150 organisations of grassroots migrants, refugees, displaced peoples and advocates.

Lestari said that despite and in spite of global indignation, the Qatari government has not advanced any measures to uphold rights and wellbeing of migrant workers, ensure their access to justice, nor compensate the families of those who have died. Some have even denied the workers’ death as work-related.

She blamed the slave-like conditions of migrant workers in Qatar to the government’s refusal to scrap policies that make migrants vulnerable to abuses and exploitation such as the Kafala System. The Kafala system is a repressive and exploitative “sponsor system” that legitimizes modern-day slavery of migrant workers.

In 2015, the Qatari government had promised to introduce new legislation

MIGRANTS' VOICES

that would “amend” the antiquated and inhumane Kafala system. Despite this, abuses against and deaths of migrant workers remained on the rise.

“FIFA, for its failure to give just compensation to the migrant workers and their families and for keeping silent on the ongoing modern-day slavery happening in Qatar, is complicit in all these atrocities. Behind all the grandiose celebrations are the grief and agony of migrant workers who have made the 2022 World Cup possible. FIFA’s tagline ‘Now is All’ does not include migrants because for them migrants are invisible, disposable.”

IMA calls on the FIFA and the Qatari government to heed the demands for comprehensive change in migration and labor policies in Qatar to uphold and protect their rights and welfare. Likewise, IMA calls on governments of migrant-sending countries to stand by their nationals, demand decent living wages for them and condemn the slave-like conditions of their migrant workers in Qatar.

“No migrant worker is a slave, a commodity or a disposable good. Celebrate us, protect us, uphold us. The conditions of migrant workers in Qatar deserve a much, much bigger arena than the World Cup.”

Proverbs 1:16, KJV

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

Marco Luciano mluciano2@gmail.com

PCG Calgary Leads Webinar on Franchising Opportunities for Filipino Canadians in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Calgary, 23 November 2022– As part of its economic diplomacy program, the Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Calgary successfully organized the webinar “Trabaho, Negosyo, Kabuhayan: Franchising Opportunities for Filipino Canadians” on 18 November 2022.

The PCG held the webinar in partnership with the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) –Toronto and the Philippine Franchise Association (PFA).

The PCG also collaborated with the following business groups which assisted in promoting the webinar among their members: Philippine Business Society of Alberta (PBSA), United Filipino Entrepreneurs Association (UFEA), Philippine Business Council of Calgary (PBCC), Philippine Entrepreneurs Society of Saskatchewan (PESOS), and Saskatoon Association of Filipino Entrepreneurs, Inc. (SAFE Inc).

“We would like to open another door of opportunity for our Filipino Canadian entrepreneurs by providing them with information on franchising Philippine brands, so they will have more options for expanding or starting a business,” said Consul General Zaldy Patron in his remarks during the webinar.

Ms. Sherill Quintana, PFA Chairperson, talked about the PFA and explained why franchising Philippine brands could be a viable and better option for Filipino Canadian entrepreneurs. She highlighted that the expansion of Philippine franchises could also serve as a powerful tool for Philippine economic development and nation building.

Mr. Joph Tan of Francorp Philippines shared some pointers on how to invest wisely in the right franchise.

Mr. Hipolito Alibin then gave a testimonial about his company’s positive experience in franchising Max’s Restaurant in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Four Philippine companies, namely Caffe La Tea, Famous Belgian Waffles, Nail.Glow, and Oryspa, gave presentations about their respective businesses.

These firms are among the Philippine franchisors looking for franchisees in Canada.

The public can view the webinar from this link - https://fb.watch/g_ k19vM8hx/?mibextid=qC1gEa.

This latest webinar was a follow up to the Webinar on Setting Up Businesses in Canada that the PCG organized on 19 October 2022.

Learning for Interdependence & Global Awareness of the Philippines & Canada

LINGAP Canada Commemorates Human Rights Day

HUMAN RIGHTS DEFENDERS IN CANADA &

Human 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). The UDHR is a milestone document, which proclaims the inalienable rights that everyone is entitled to as a human beingregardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status. For this year, the 2022 slogan for Human Rights Day is “Dignity, Freedom, and Justice for All.” and the call to action is #StandUp4HumanRights.

One of the annual activities of LINGAPCanada is the celebration of Human Rights Day. In 2020, we held an online Forum featuring over 30 Canadians in diverse fields who presented their perspectives and experience of human rights. In 2021, we presented a Human Rights Monologues to dramatize human rights violations and protection of many marginalized groups or communities in Global North and South contexts.

For this year, 2022, we provided a compilation describing the inspirational vision and work of 13 Human Rights Defenders in Canada and 10 in the Philippines. The human rights protected by these defenders included the right to live in

THE PHILIPPINES

a nonviolent world free from weapons of mass destruction and Gender-based Violence; the rights of Indigenous Peoples, Moros, women, children, internally displaced persons, refugees, migrant workers, persons with disabilities, LBGTQ and other gender identities; right of non-discrimination and anti-racism; civil and political rights; freedom of expression and information; right to religious belief and respect; right to economic and social development based on justice, dignity and non-exploitation; right to health; right to environmental sustainability and climate justice.

These Human Rights Defenders are honoured for their contributions to social action to help overcome human rights violations and protect human rights of peoples and humanity in local, national, and global contexts. We have uploaded the PowerPoint presentation as a YouTube video (https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=o9dUDft7P5o).

LINGAP Canada is hopeful that the vision and work of these defenders will inspire people who view this video to be active local and global citizens in building a culture of human rights toward a culture of peace not only in Canada and the Philippines, but also in the wider world community.

Philippine Human Rights Defenders

Consul General Zaldy Patron (top left), Ms. Sherrill Quintana, Chairperson of the Philippine Franchising Association (top right), and Trade Commissioner Benedict Uy during the webinar “Trabaho, Negosyo, Kabuhayan: Franchising Opportunities for Filipino Canadians” held on 18 November 2022. (Calgary PCG)

Speakers and panel members during the webinar (Calgary PCG).

Canadian Human Rights Defenders

Left to Right: John P. Humphrey; Leroy Little Bear; Huberte Gautreau; Stephanie Elickus; Doug Roche; Marie Roberson; Marco Luciano; Catherine Coumans; David Suzuki; Roxanne Ulanicki; Michel Chikwanine; Irfan Chaudhry; Sandy Houston.

Left to Right: Vicky Tauli-Corpuz; Jose Chel Diokno; Fr. Shay Cullen; Rufa Gacoco-Guiam; Sr. Mary John Manansan; Risa Hontiveros; Sonny Africa; Maria Ressa; Fr. Sebastiano D’Ambra; Marinel Ubaldo

The History that shapes Filipino Identity

The richness of the Filipino language and culture can always be traced through practice. From the start, Filipino people’s affinity to arts and culture cannot easily be dichotomized and eradicated by the advent of techno centrism and millennial pseudo-psychology for the reason that Filipinos are known for their vigilance in the preservation of their inheritance.

On the 9th of December 2022 at the ACCA Centre in Edmonton, the recently concluded 43rd Anniversary celebration of the Filipino-Canadian Saranay Association of Alberta with its theme: Echoes from the Roots: Part 2, in cooperation with the Filipino Language and Culture of Edmonton was a great success.

Saranay president, Cesar Daus, officially opened and welcomed the program and acknowledged those who he believes will become assets to the

association and potentially become their successors. Attending the event were Philippine Consul General Zaldy Patron, City of Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi, MLA for Millwoods Christina Gray, and Edmonton Arts Council Program Advisor/Arts Development and Investment Anastasia Maywood.

The president of the Congress of the Philippine Associations of Alberta and the Publisher of Alberta Filipino Journal Jose “Jun” Angles, Political Candidate for Edmonton West Nathan Ip, and Mr. Antonio, the Honorary Consul of Spain to Edmonton, were there to support.

The Cultural Presentation

Visitors and guests were entertained by the group of Filipino folk singers and instrumentalists. The Saranay adult-senior chorale group was accompanied by the youth and

adult Rondalla in cooperation with the Lopez Band headed by Maestro Renato (Mike) Lopez and his family members, who played the Luzviminda (Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao) Medleys. Roujea Cawagas-Cates and Her daughter Erica Cawagas also played the Christmas Medley.

Lovers of both Filipino folk songs and dances were so delighted by the Saranay folk dancers’ (from 5 year old language and culture students to 92 year old lolos and lolas) lively performances.

The Filipino Values

The Filipino culture is truly embedded in every Filipino’s soul. Filipinos are good mimics and well-equipped with

The

More photos to be posted on our website albertafilipinojournal.com

Seniors Choir

Mother Apple and daughter Avery Mendoza

MLA Christina Gray and Dr. Josephine Pallard

Abigael and Michael Mendoza

Erica Cawagas and Jea Cawagas-Cates Emma Araja and Sheila Pagtakhan

Consul Genral Zaldy Patron

Saranay President Cesar Daus

Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi

Anastacia Maywood

Photos by Lito Velasco

Ruth Decano Folk, Edna Gilera, Jose “Jun” Angeles, Cesar Daus, Antonio - Honorary Consul of Spain and his wife

Saranay Rondalla and the Lopez Band a good attitude when borrowing, as they always do something to maintain the good shape or even take extra effort to innovate and improve.

Surprise Number Witnessed by more or less 200 attendees

at the ACCA Centre, Dr. Josephine Pallard, the principal of the Filipino Language and Culture School of Edmonton was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal by MLA Christina Gray.

Gloc 9 and Shanti Dope: the Kingpin and Prodigy of Philippine Rap

One of the recent concert engagements in Edmonton was the Rapsada sa Canada featuring Gloc 9 and Shanti Dope.

This tour is part of Gloc 9’s celebration of 25 years in the music industry, which also brought them to Toronto, Winnipeg, Calgary, and Red Deer. This tour in a way, is also about the

beginning and the future of Philippine rap - featuring the Philippines’ King of Hip-Hop and the Phenom.

Gloc 9 is Aristotle Condenuevo Pollisco, rapper, singer and songwriter, from Binangonan, Rizal. He discovered rap during his elementary years, where he would memorize the popular rap songs until eventually making his

own. He made a name in the local underground hip hop scene with the Filipino hip hop group Death Threat. Through time, he has released albums which have garnered awards, practically winning everything he was nominated for. One of the most prolific rappers and songwriters of the Philippines, Gloc 9 has been

awarded the Sudi National Music Award by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, two FAMAS Awards, 21 Awit Awards, 18 Myx Music Awards, 9 PMPC Star Awards and the 6th Wish Music Awards’ Artist of the Year. He has also been inducted at the Calle Con Hall of Fame. It has been said that rapper Francis Magalona has described Gloc 9 as “a blacksmith of words and letters, and a true Filipino poet”. He is a storyteller - of his life, universal stories of love and family, and social issues like poverty, patriotism and gender identity.

Shanti Dope, rapper, singer and songwriter, is Sean Patrick Ramos from Cavite. He discovered hip-hop with a group of neighbourhood kids, copying what they would hear on the radio. At the age of 14, he started writing his own songs for friendly battles in the underground rap scene. He started with rhyming and with the help of friends, learned about conceptualizing his writing. He maximized opportunities to perform, paid or not, to be noticed. At the age of 16, he signed up with a recording label. He is considered a phenom, generating millions of streams locally and abroad, and performances throughout Asia, Australia, in the United States, and now in Canada. His songs are described as “laden with slow-burning hip-hop beats and cuttingly honest lyricism”, with “awesome wordplay, spectacular verses and gorgeous rap flow”. His song “Amatz” was featured on Marvel’s The Falcon and the Winter Soldier series in Disney+, episode Power Broker.

Gloc 9 is known for helping emerging rappers, and opening up opportunities. And Shanti Dope has acknowledged Gloc 9 as a major influence and inspiration for him. And so, it was heartening to see the interaction between them and about 16 local aspiring and emerging singers, rappers, and songwriters during the Meet and Greet in Edmonton, sharing their experiences, advice and thoughts.

First and foremost, they both stressed the importance of doing what you are passionate about and enjoying the process. To not give up. When you fail, it doesn’t matter. What’s important is that you push yourself forward again and persevere. But once you’re no longer happy, then probably that’s the time to do something else. Gloc 9’s start was not an easy one. In fact, sometime after the release of his second album, he studied Nursing and worked other

ARTOSPECTIVE - an artist’s point of view

jobs, thinking that his music would not be lucrative enough to support a family. Thankfully, when he was about to take the Nursing exam, his musical career took off. Nevertheless, he is proud that he was able to have this educational accomplishment, as an example to his children.

Get inspiration from other artists, continue to research and try different styles, and be excited with experimenting. In this current music scene, there’s easier access to various works and styles, the ability to release your own songs, and to learn skills like mixing. But because of this accessibility, there are more artists in the pool. And so there’s a greater challenge to excel. Gloc 9 elaborates that this boils down to who wants it more, who is passionate about it, and willing to persevere. Consistency is the key. To stand out, make sure your output is consistent. Learn from every person you meet and work with, and each time you perform, treat it like it’s your last one and do your best. Keep learning. For Shanti Dope, he aims to learn more about the business side of the music industry, i.e. marketing and branding, apart from his songwriting.

Asked about what their advice would be to Filipino singers and rappers who are establishing their identity in Canada, they are of the same opinion to focus on where you are comfortable with, and stay authentic. Do not make impositions based on the market. To stand out here in Canada, it boils down to intentions. If it’s an expression of yourself, it doesn’t matter whether you write in Filipino or English, it’s whatever you desire to express.

Shanti Dope is quick to say how impressed he is with Filipino artists in Canada who study and/or work while pursuing their art, saying with a laugh, that he didn’t think he would be able to survive that himself.

That evening with Gloc 9 and Shanti Dope was a refreshing encounter with two artists whose work I was not initially familiar with, but now appreciate, especially after witnessing their talents, discipline, wisdom, humility and generosity. It is just right that they are looked up to by the aspiring and emerging artists in the Meet and Greet, and who should heed the words that were shared with them by the kingpin and prodigy of Philippine art.

Photo credit for concert photos: Yana in Moments Photography

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

Filipino Dirtbike Enthusiasts Christmas Party

Members of the Filipino Dirtbike Enthusiasts finally organized a Christmas Party for the group and their families held on December 3 at the Radisson Hotel. Games, dances and singing performances from local singers Ana Jane and Hazel of UniqueMixx spiced up the party.

Winners of the game!

Hazel, Laarni, Queenie and Ana Jane.

Members of the Filipino Dirtbike Enthusiasts (Ryan, Crisan, Gatan, Francis, Jaypee, Ace, Eric, Randolph, Kenneth, Totoy, Don, Gerald, Jhon, Togie, Ian, Chris and Gerry) and their families celebrate, Dec. 3, at the Radisson Hotel.

Hazel of UniqueMixx sings for the dirtbikers.

A Happy Birthday to Chris Ayson!

Ana Jane belts out a song.

Chris receives a prize from Laarni.

By Moses Billacura

Yeg Pinay Entrepreneurs Christmas Party

By Moses Billacura

PBSA members hear from Victor Cui

A gentleman, Chris, with the ladies of Yeg Pinay Entrepreneur Society.

Raymark and Pia of Liberty Autoworx.

Tha's Rosalie and Josephine, your local singers.

Go Honda on 184 Street's Jane Absalon (extreme right) with friends.

The Yeg Pinay Entrepreneur Society held its second annual Christmas Party, Dec. 2, at the Manila Grill Restaurant.

YEG Pinay Entrepreneurs Society members at their second annual Christmas party, Dec. 2, at the Manila Grill Restaurant.

Photos by Moses Billacura | Alberta Filipino Journal

The Philippine Business Society of Alberta (PBSA) members had a lovely meeting with Victor Cui, president of the Edmonton Elks, who talked about business and life in general. The meeting was held at the Elks’ home, November 16.

Victor Cui with PBSA's legal adviser, Atty. Joseph Angeles.

Victor Cui with the PBSA.

Photos Moses Billacura | Alberta Filipino Journal

The Christmas that binds

By Ruth Dogue-Is

As we head towards the end of the year, the Filipino-Canadian Saranay Association had a joyful Christmas get-together on December

18, 2022. It was attended by its board members and the students of the Filipino Language and Culture School of Edmonton together with their parents. It was a joyous moment of singing Filipino Christmas carols and moving and grooving to

them. As we celebrate Jesus’ birth this season, we are also reminded that it is a time to create stronger family bonds.

Maligayang Pasko at Manigong Bagong Taon from Saranay family.

Lantern-Making

L-R: Teacher Ruth, tita Emma Araja, Jamie Anareta, Janzel Anareta, tacher Baby Lyn Felix, Dr. Josie Pallard, the school principal

L-R: Henry Escalona, Anita Escalona, Tiffany Claire Girrent and husband, Jennifer Willocks, husband and children

Teacher Sweet and the students

L-R: Mike Lopez, Gloria Daus, Cesar Daus, Eddie Picardal, Ruth Dogue-is, Tessie Picardal

The Filipino Language and Culture School of Edmonton Board of Directors, teachers, parents, and students.

AFJ

Jose “Jun” Angeles

Awarded Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal

MLA for Edmonton-Glenora Sarah Hoffman had

comments on presenting Jose “Jun” Angeles with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee medal: "It

Angeles with a Queen Elizabeth II

Platinum Jubilee medal.

His record of service includes president of the Congress of the Philippine Associations of Alberta, publisher for the Alberta Filipino

Journal, and for 40 years he's helped co-ordinate the Philippine pavilion at Edmonton Heritage Festival Association.

Congratulations, Jun. "

medal to Jun Angeles

Work Hard, Party Hard

by Mario Asuncion

Daily working, daily striving, ever more to be. That is an integral phrase of our Toast Song It is motivation to push us to achieve more every day, not just for ourselves but also for the well being of other people, the community, and most especially for the country that adopted us—Canada.

As Brothers and Sisters, we gather once more, embrace each other, and clasp each other’s hands tight. We greet each other. The energy is ever present when this event takes place, and then, it's magic!

"All, close your eyes

Let that rhythm get into you Don't try to fight it

There ain't nothing that you can do Relax your mind Lay back and groove with mine You gotta feel that heat And we can ride the boogie Share that beat of love" "Rock With You"

Michael Jackson

Yes, there was a lot of rockin' and rollin'. The rhythm was conspicuous, and the groove, fantastic. We rode the boogie, the cha cha, and the swing, and we had some sweet dance steps too. This was at the 17th Anniversary Ball of the Alpha Phi Omega Alberta Alumni Association to honour the 97th Founding Anniversary of APO

International Collegiate Service Fraternity and Sorority, which took place in Lafayette College, Pennsylvania, USA, in 1925. It coincided with the Christmas Party for the Association. Red Deer, Alberta was the venue, and on December 3, we were blessed with clear weather, extending to the next day for the trip back home.

Our very own APO band exuberantly belted out songs, and accompanied us in singing the Philippine National Anthem, O Canada, and the APO Toast Song, and Christmas party is not complete without carols, both in Tagalog and English. Special mentions go to Brod Raul Lastimosa, on keyboard, Brod Daniel Padilla and Brod Ronald Pescasio, both on guitar. Credits to Brod Mario Asuncion, who willingly served as an impromptu Master of Ceremonies. We also thank our DJ, who took many song requests.

On hand to give a message was our President, Brod Daniel Padilla. He and his gracious wife, sis Jhen, also organized games for those present. Brods Ed Martinez and Orson Villaroman, we are hoping that you get well and be with us for our future events. Our last party was two years ago, in Edmonton. There was a hiatus, but after that, came a bonus as the attendance last Saturday was very impressive.

This was largely due to the first time participation of newcomers Brods and Sisses. Our gratitude also goes to your Family, where life begins and love never ends.

Onwards to more fruitful years, APO Alberta. Let our ranks swell! Let respect reign! Share that beat of love. Let us all be Grateful and enjoy the little things in life, because one

day you will look back, and realize they were the big things.

To our readers, Alpha Phi Omega Alberta Alumni Association wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and a

Prosperous New Year. Be safe, keep warm, keep on rockin' and rollin'! Life is about moments. Create them. Don't wait for them. Mabuhay!

COPAA’s Commemoration of the Saviour’s Birth and the Celebration of Salvation

It does not matter what misfortunes this world has brought into our lives. It does not matter how bad or unfavourable circumstances came our way. It does not matter who truly made and arbitrarily unfurled the pestilent virus that unreasonably took millions of lives. It does not matter what kind of ideology is being propagated by the leftists. What really matters is the fact that a particular colour can only be appreciated when blended with other colours. A view of the future depends on how we learned from our past experiences. An organization that is a radically God-respecting and in the same manner, advocating the importance of human dignity and identity, shall never be destroyed by the antagonists.

The Congress of the Philippine Association in Alberta is not an exemption as its officers and members have gone through a lot of trials and tribulations from its detractors; yet, with its determined leaders, it keeps on prospering for the reason that everyone in this group is guided and motivated by a good reason, vision and mission.

The attendees of the December 16th Christmas Party truly enjoyed the celebration of oneness and authentic friendship in remembrance of the Child Jesus’ birth in the manger. The simple occasion was graced by Hon. Sarah Hoffman, MLA for Edmonton-Glenora. At the same time, she re-awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal to Mr. Jose “Jun” L. Angeles. Sarah was accompanied by her colleague, Nathan Ip. The two down-to-earth politicians are applauded for their gestures of humility.

Everybody felt the warmth of each other’s presence. The presentations were not scripted. Attendees just stayed cool and acted like kids. That simply meant the Jesus was the reason for such a noble occasion. As the Bible says, “Unless you acquire the heart of a child, you cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” - Matthew 18:3

COPAA is committed to continuously grooming future leaders who will continue to share joy and prosperity through the services without reservations or hypocrisy.

SkinLueur with Miss Int’l Canada candidate

Madison Kvaltin

SkinLueur Aesthetics and

supported the fund-raising event for Miss International Canada 2022 Madison Kvaltin who is competing in December in Japan.

The event was organized by fashion designer Francheska of Studio 13, Nov. 17, at the Stanhope Eatery and Bar.

Laser Centre

SkinLueur CEO Chum Ardaniel (2nd from right) with Miss International Canada Madison Kvatlin. Joining them are fashion designer Francheska (extreme left), former Miss Earth Philippines Jean De Jesus, and SkinLeur baby Chorah (extreme right).

Miss International Canada Madison Kvatlin with backers from SkinLueuer, CEO Chum Ardaniel, Manager Zab Sace and SkinLueur baby Shiela.

Doc Chum with friends.

SkinLueur's Chum Ardaniel with Stanhope Eatery and Bar's Jeet Arora.

By Moses Billacura

Photos by Moses Billacura | Alberta Filipino Journal

MP Rechie Valdez

Rechie Valdez is the Member of Parliament for Mississauga—Streetsville. She was elected to office in the 2021 federal election. M.P. Valdez is the first FilipinaCanadian and second Filipino-Canadian to be elected to the House of Commons. M.P. Valdez currently serves on the Standing Committee for Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs and is the Chair for the CanadaPhilippines Interparliamentary Group.

Hello everyone!

As we celebrate the Holiday Season, I hope everyone will spend time with their loved ones, cherish all the good that has happened this year, and give thanks for all the positivity which was received.

Recently, I was appointed as the Chair of the Canada-Philippines Interparliamentary Group. I want to thank Kevin Lamoureux (MP for Winnipeg-North) for his years of service and dedication to the role. I am excited to embark on this opportunity and look forward to working with the Vice Chairs, Directors, and Board Members.

On December 5th, Minister Sean Fraser (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship) announced more resources would be provided for the Foreign Credential Recognition

Program. This program will help recruit internationally educated healthcare professionals and reduce barriers to allow them to work in Canada. The program will have a positive impact on improving access to care in Canada and will benefit our families.

This is my favourite time of the year where we spend quality time with family putting up Christmas lights on the tree and decorating our home. Since my son Kyle was born, we started the tradition of building Lego or puzzle sets and we always write letters to Santa.

From 2016 to now; I have included a picture of my family’s first Christmas since the birth of our daughter and our family picture for Christmas 2022.

On behalf of my family, I would like to wish everyone a joyous Holiday Season and may your New Year be filled with good health, success, and happiness!

Usapang Pederal Sulong Alberta!

George’s

As part of our continued work supporting Alberta families and communities, we announced several important measures last month in our Fall Economic Statement (FES).

The FES is essentially composed of three pillars. First, it will improve Canada’s competitiveness and productivity with smart investments, including in green technology and energy like hydrogen. Second, it’s a compassionate and responsible fiscal management plan that offers targeted support for those who need it most. And third, it aims to make life more affordable and build an economy that works for everyone by eliminating interest on student loans, helping new homebuyers, and supporting small businesses.

Our government is not just making life more affordable for Canadians. We are also growing the Canadian economy through our recently released Immigration Levels Plan.

Our federal Liberal Government recognizes the importance of increasing and facilitating immigration to Canada. We recently released a plan to welcome 500,000 immigrants every year by 2025. Through the plan, we are introducing an expedited process for Permanent Resident applicants that possess the required in-demand skills. The plan also focuses on bolstering family reunification by making it easier for those already in Canada to reunite with their family

ones.

From affordability to immigration, we are working hard towards a better future for all Canadians.

Gumagalang, Randy at George

CONTACTS

The Hon. Randy Boissonnault MP for Edmonton Centre Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance Main office – Edmonton #202, 10235 124 St Edmonton, Alberta T5N 1P9 Telephone:780-442-1888

Main office –

101-7 Westwinds Crescent NE Calgary, AB T3J 5H2 Telephone: 403-291-0018 Email: George.Chahal@parl.gc.ca Website: GeorgeChahalMP.ca

and loved

Minister Randy Boissonnault

The Honourable Randy Boissonnault federal minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance was first elected to the House of Commons in 2015 and was reelected in 2021, representing Edmonton Centre. A passionate advocate for Edmonton Centre, he worked to address the needs and priorities of his community, including strengthening transit infrastructure, supporting businesses, and creating jobs.

MP George Chahal

A community leader and long-time advocate, George Chahal is committed to creating new jobs, growing our middle class, supporting the most vulnerable, and helping make Calgary Skyview more inclusive and representative of all its citizens.

former role as a City Councillor led to the approval of major recreation projects across Calgary.

by MP Rechie Valdez

By Minister Randy Boissonnault and MP George Chahal

Maligayang Pasko at Manigong Bagong Taon! Rechie Valdez

George Chahal MP for Calgary Skyview

Calgary

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

The Immigration Guy: Q&A with an Immigration Professional

This month we bring you the CHRISTMAS EDITION of our immigration Q&A series and answer immigration questions submitted by you!

Names and situation details have been changed to protect confidentiality and privacy.

Trucking for the holidays!

Antonio – St. Albert, AB

Q: I have been a truck driver in Alberta for two years now working full-time. Since I arrived, it has been very stressful as I found out I could not apply for permanent residence in the economic class without applying for a nomination. Also, I have been very troubled that I can not bring my family until I have permanent residence. I have not yet started the process, but I heard that something changed recently

with immigration regarding truck drivers and wanted to know what options I have now?

A: Antonio, we have great news! Last month, the federal government announced the new TEER (Training, education, experience, responsibilities) program, improving on the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. In the previous NOC system, truck drivers were classified as NOC C – or in the unskilled category. This made it more difficult for you to apply for permanent residence, especially during the COVID pandemic. Now, truck drivers

are in TEER 3 which is a semi-skilled category (pardon the pun “semi”) which means you can now apply directly in the Express Entry system! This allows you to apply for permanent residence and achieve a possible invitation and application faster than it would have taken for you to apply in the provincial nomination stream. Furthermore, you can now be eligible for selection by the province in the express entry profile if you meet the requirements to be selected. There are now several new options at your disposal, not to mention that you can now have your family members accompany you to Canada as a temporary foreign worker in a semi-skilled position with a restricted LMIA work permit. Now that truck drivers are where they belong in a skilled classification, you have the same opportunities as others who have similar skilled jobs in Canada.

Working for the holidays!

Jessica – Calgary, AB

Q: I am an international student, and I am going into my last semester! I am almost complete but the strain financially paying my tuition and helping my family back home has been very tough. I work two jobs of 10 hours per week each and have been offered a full-time position. I desperately need to take the job. How can I get around the 20 hours per week and how do I work more without a work permit? Please help. A: IRCC just gave you an early Christmas gift – starting from November 15, 2022, and running until the end of 2023, you can work more than 20 hours a week provided you are a full-time student and you hold a study permit! This also applies to applicants who have been approved for a study permit as of the start date but have not yet arrived in Canada. The good thing is that full time work is not defined with a ceiling, rather it is more than 30 hours per week of employment, so you can work as many hours as you want. There are other restrictions that may apply, so be sure to check the Canada. ca link or feel free to contact us to learn more. Hopefully this helps! It certainly will help employers fill critical labour needs and will help you make some extra cash for the holidays and for your last semester. Good luck!

Bah humbug!

Maria – Saint Albert, AB

Q: I applied to renew my permanent resident card back in September and still have not heard anything from IRCC… just crickets! I have a flight booked to leave Edmonton on December 23rd and arriving home in the Philippines on Christmas Eve to surprise my family. My tickets are booked, and I can not change the date because my boss will not give me more time off. Help! What can I do?

A: We completely understand. Sometimes dealing with immigration can be very slow and cumbersome. Canadian immigration allows you to expedite a PR card renewal application under certain circumstances. To qualify for urgent processing of a PR card, you must be traveling within the next three months due to a job opportunity, your own serious illness, the death of a family member, work related to your current job, or the serious illness of a family member. God forbid either one of these things apply to you… however if they do not, then immigration can and likely will refuse a request to expedite. HOWEVER, sometimes if you apply to have your card expedited, you may get an officer who can help speed along to process. Obviously, not meeting the requirements for expedition of your PR card means that they have every reason to not process the request, but if your application is outside of normal processing times, it does not hurt to give it a try! Applying to have your card expedited is an easy process and requires a webform submission and supporting evidence such as your travel itinerary and evidence that your request is urgent. Unfortunately, the threat of Christmas blues is not necessarily a valid reason to have your PR card expedited but being outside of the normal processing times might be! From all of us at Freedom Migrate Immigration Solutions, we want to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a blessed holiday season!

Have a question? Send us your submission to freedommigrate@gmail.com or call our office at 403-5202277 or call/text 587-938-3100 from anywhere in Alberta!

Stephen Burry

FAMILY MEMBERS OF TEMPORARY FOREIGN WORKERS AT ALL SKILL LEVELS CAN APPLY FOR OPEN WORK PERMIT STARTING JANUARY 2023.

FROM MIGRATION TO IMMIGRATION

Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Honourable Sean Fraser announced recently that family members of temporary foreign workers will be eligible for open work permits starting January 2023. According to Fraser, expanding the eligibility of work permits to family members accompanying the principal applicant to Canada will help address labour shortages.

and community.

This is Canada’s new approach to address the increasing labour needs in the country.

This temporary two-year measure will be implemented in 3 phases.

Marjorie Carmona Newman is a REGULATED CANADIAN

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

This is a temporary two-year measure that will allow spouses and working-age children of temporary foreign workers at all skill levels to work in Canada through a phased approach. This would include families of workers in health care, trades and hospitality. IRCC estimates that family members of 200,000 temporary foreign workers will benefit from this new measure.

Before this announcement, spouses were only eligible for a work permit provided the applicant was working in a high skilled occupation. IRCC aims to improve the emotional well-being, physical health, and financial stability of workers by keeping families together. As a result,

=Phase 1 will enable family members of temporary foreign workers coming to Canada through the high-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program or the International Mobility Program to apply for an open work permit.

=Phase 2 aims to expand the measure to the family members of workers from the low-wage stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, following consultations.

=Phase 3 will include consultation with agricultural partners and stakeholders to assess operational feasibility for expanding the measure to family members of agricultural workers.

Please note that if you are a Temporary Foreign Worker in Canada on a skilled occupation, your spouse is eligible to apply for the Open Work Permit. There are eligibility requirements that the Foreign Worker and the spouse

guidelines for the spouses and working age children of temporary foreign workers with low-skilled occupation.

I am hoping that it will be released soon so kababayans can join their family members in Canada.

According to IRCC, it has issued over 645,000 work permits between January and October 2022–nearly four times more than the 163,000 issued over the same period in 2021.

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

Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

A word of caution: You should not

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

Unpacking The Role of Daughter-In-Law

My husband and I have been married for three years which seems short, but adding to that the years from

GENERAL POINT OF VIEW

dating, moving in together, and more household milestones, we feel like an old married couple. Twelve years is a long time, and as each year and decade passes, with new milestones and changes in the lives of the people around us, I admit I still feel unsure on what being an in-law is supposed to entail.

I had trouble seeing any patterns or principles of how this in-law relationship is supposed to work from her other seven children and their spouses.

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

In my childhood, my family lived away from the parents-in-law on both sides. When my parents were still alive, I didn’t have a lot of examples of the dynamics between the married-in spouse and the parentsin-law. Was my mother welcomed with open arms when she married my father in 1989? Did my mother receive support or meaningful advice about married life and child-rearing from the mother of her husband? Did she feel like a cherished member of the family during the annual visits to Manila, when for eleven and a half months of the year we live quite far away in Benguet?

My father moved away from his family, so he interacted slightly more often with my mother’s side. In my biased opinion, he was a fabulous son-in-law. My grandma didn’t talk badly about him after he died. I took that as a good sign. In all the years I lived with my grandma, with the chaos of living everyday life,

Moving to Canada made things trickier. Relatives were even further away. The elders I lived with were more focused on expressing disapproval for dating in the first place. Perhaps it was due to their panic that the boys I dated were not Filipino, and that having sex tends to happen earlier. I never got the opportunity to get guidance on how to navigate the relationships with the additional members of my family unit.

I have come up with my own broad principles which seem to help now, and that I hope will help me in the future. There have been significant changes and challenges with my husband’s side of the family over the past five years. I am aware from seeing Filipino family dynamics that if I’m not thoughtful and sensitive, conflict can blow up quickly.

I remind myself that my primary loyalty is to the person I am connected through this family – my husband. Ironically, he tries hard to convince me that I’m a daughter now and can act as such. It is very sweet of him. I certainly try to be warm, relaxed and be myself when I interact with them.

But when conflicting perspectives and needs arise, his well-being and our household’s well-being comes first.

When it comes to offering help and expressing our position on important matters, my husband and I are a united front represented by him. We have determined our strengths and tap on those whenever we give support. When something concerns me, the best place to bring it up is not at the dinner table when visiting family, but in the privacy of my own home. This gives my husband the opportunity to provide important context that I might not be aware of since I didn’t spend my childhood years with their family.

Both my husband and my therapist reassured me that I am permitted to have my own emotions when things are happening with my parents-in-law. When my mother-inlaw started to become seriously ill, I was confused, guilty even, at how intense my sadness was. I learned that it is natural to feel the fear and grief of losing who has essentially become my ‘second mother’. That meant a lot to me.

I hope that by continuing to uphold the principles of transparency, boundaries, respect, tactfulness, and sincere care, I continue to nurture this invaluable extension of my family tree.

Cabinet task force to tackle Edmonton social issues

The Edmonton Public Safety and Community Response Task Force will address social issues through a coordinated response between the province, city and local partners.

Addiction, homelessness and public safety issues have affected every community in Alberta, with Edmonton being especially hard hit. To address these issues and build on the province’s recovery-oriented

system of addiction and mental health care, Alberta’s government is forming the Edmonton Public Safety and Community Response Task Force.

The task force will implement a

series of initiatives in the Edmonton metropolitan region as part of a $187-million commitment to address addiction and homelessness in Alberta’s urban centres. In Edmonton, $63 million of this funding will go

toward dramatically increasing access to addiction services and supports over the next two years, and $19 million has been allocated to combat homelessness.

“Addiction has become one of the most urgent social issues facing our province, and one of the most complex. This task force will bring community partners together to implement a series of recoveryoriented initiatives, enhancing public safety and improving addiction and mental health care in Edmonton.”

Nicholas Milliken, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction

“Addiction impacts a person’s well-being and drives them to do things that put themselves and others at risk. I saw this first hand during my time with the Calgary police. By bringing all the key community members together, we can build trust within the community that will result in better public safety.”

• creating a hybrid health and police hub

• expanding medical detox services

• building harm reduction and recovery outreach teams

• expanding access to emergency shelter space

“The number of Albertans facing homelessness and addiction continues to be a top of mind concern for me. I spent many years working in homeless shelters and connecting with those facing challenges of addiction. I am very optimistic about the creation of this task force to find long-term solutions to support Albertans in need.”

Jeremy Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services

Mike

Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services

The initiatives the task force is responsible for implementing will help provide more life-saving services to Edmontonians struggling with addiction and homelessness while enhancing public safety within the city. This work will include:

• further increasing addiction treatment capacity in Edmonton

• providing addiction and mental health treatment programs in correctional centres

“We’ve heard from communities across Alberta about the need for a collaborative approach to help address issues of addiction and mental health. Our government is committed to building strong, resilient communities, and we are happy to be working in partnership with local leaders and organizations to deliver support to Albertans who need it.”

Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Municipal Affairs

Task force members are:

• Nicholas Milliken, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction

• Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services (chair)

• Jeremy Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services

•

NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD

Luke 1:26-38

I am not an immaculate guy but I am so blessed to receive news from an “angel” six years ago in the person of my bishop telling me, “Rev. Jhack, we are happy to ordain and welcome you in the order of presbyterate on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception.” Like Mary, fear was my immediate reaction. I was troubled but at the same time felt excitement. How can this be? I am not a perfect candidate. Mary is Immaculate but I am stained by my sins. Mary is perfectly humble but I am arrogant. Mary is very obedient and I always complain. In fact, I was frustrated because I thought God has forgotten and forsaken me. It took me 18 long years to wait before I was ordained. However, in His perfect time, God arranged everything. Indeed, His plans are better than mine. When God will plan, it is perfectly perfect!

At the age of 35, I received the Sacrament of Ordination. I was blessed to experience the laying on of hands by my bishop and fellow priests. They are like the angels in

Testimonium

AS AMENDED PER RESOLUTION ADOPTED ON MARCH 14, 1989, rule 128, Section 1, evidence meanssanctioned by these rules, of ascertaining in a judicial proceeding the truth respecting a matter of fact. (1)

Section 2. Scope. — The rules of evidence shall be the same in all courts and in all trials and hearings, except as otherwise provided by law or these rules. (2a)

Section 3. Admissibility of evidence. — Evidence is admissible when it is relevant to the issue and is not excluded by the law of these rules. (3a)

today’s gospel, telling me, “Fr. Jhack don’t be afraid, the Lord is with you.” Friends, nothing is impossible with God. Sometimes blessings are delayed but not denied. You know what? I took Psalm 40:1 as the theme of my ordination which says, “I waited patiently for the Lord, He turned to me and He heard my cry.”

My first year as a priest was filled with wonderful blessings. I was stationed anywhere to replace and cover priests on vacations. I’ve been to different parishes in the diocese. I solemnized weddings, officiated funerals, baptized children, annointed the sick, blessed homes, cars and religious items, attended ordinations and have been invited to many homes for pastoral concerns. God has been very good to me.

Less than a year in the ministry I received my appointment as parish priest. Two years after, another appointment was made, this time as a vocation director. Now, I am appointed as the chairperson of the Diocesan Caritas and dean of the southern deanery. Today my

• Testimonial Statements. Testimonial statements are also sometimes called

• Testimonial Hearsay;

• Demonstrative Evidence; and

• Documentary Evidence.

Another thing we hear about is Burden of Proof and Presumptions under Rule 131 Section 1. Burden of proof. — Burden of proof is the duty of a party to present evidence on the facts in issue necessary to establish his claim or defense by the amount of evidence required by law. (1a, 2a) RULE 132, Presentation of Evidence,DOCUMENTS

Section 19. Classes of Documents. — For the purpose of their presentation evidence, documents are either public or private.

joy echoes the language of our responsorial psalm: “I sing to the Lord for He has done marvellous deeds in my life.” As a neophyte in the ministry I was blessed to visit the Vatican twice and lead a pilgrimage in the Holy Land and other places in Europe and in the United States. Lord, thank you, for I’ve been to some amazing places in the world.

Six years in the ministry is not all roses. I also experienced moments of hiding like Eve did in our first reading. Hiding because of “nakedness” due to my imperfections. However, amidst my limitations there is a God who always searches and looks after me. “Fr. Jhack, where are you? Don’t hide! Show yourself because I am going to cover you with my love and protect you with my mercy.“

Sometimes I blame others for my mistakes but God still accepts me and graces me with every spiritual blessing. He chooses me to be His priest! Friends, our first reading reminds us the two effects of sin, hiding and blaming. Sin is bringing us to darkness (hiding). Besides,

— Before any private document offered as authentic is received in evidence, its due execution and authenticity must be proved either: (a) By anyone who saw the document executed or written; or (b) By evidence of the genuineness of the signature or handwriting of the maker.

Any other private document need only be identified as that which it is claimed to be. (21a)

blaming and finger-pointing is the effect of sin, which leads us to the way of punishment. But, the good news is that God searches for us and God’s grace is larger than our sins. God triumphs over sin. Friends, never be discouraged by your limitations. Like Mary, do not be afraid. Let us always be available to God. “Here I am Lord, let it be done to me as you have said.” Finally, my dear friends, please say a short prayer for me and for all the priests. The church is now under attack. I know I am not the best priest in the world. I know I am not a perfect priest. As I celebrate my priestly ordination today I beg for your constant and untiring prayers. Sorry for those I hurt. Pardon me for my limitations. Please pray that I may be a shepherd, according to God’s heart. May I be a shepherd who feels the feelings of my flock. Pray for your priests too. I believed that a good priest is always a miracle worker. May God who has begun His good work in me, bring it to fulfillment. Amen!

Blessings, Fr. Jhack

Evidence respecting the handwriting may also be given by a comparison, made by the witness or the court, with writings admitted or treated as genuine by the party against whom the evidence is offered, or proved to be genuine to the satisfaction of the judge. (23a)

•

Filing a case is not that easy. If you do decide to go through with it, you should first determine whether you have enough proof to back up your claims. Let’s have a basic understanding of the Rules of Evidence.

In the REVISED RULES ON EVIDENCE (Rules 128-134, Rules of Court)

Section 4. Relevancy; collateral matters. — Evidence must have such a relation to the fact in issue as to induce belief in its existence or non-existence. Evidence on collateral matters shall not be allowed, except when it tends to any reasonable degree to establish the probability or improbability of the fact in issue. (4a)

The four types of evidence are: • Real Evidence. Physical evidence that is intimately linked to the case facts is called real evidence;

•

Chief Isaac A. Laboucan-Avirom, Woodland Cree First Nation

• Tim Cartmell, pihêsiwin Ward councillor, City of Edmonton

• Sarah Hamilton, sipiwiyiniwak Ward councillor, City of Edmonton

• Dale McFee, chief of police, Edmonton Police Services

• Kerry Bales, senior program officer, Provincial Addiction and Mental Health, Alberta Health Services

• Graeme McAlister, associate executive director, EMS Operations, Alberta

•

Also invited, pending City of Edmonton approval:

• Andre Corbould, city manager, City of Edmonton

• Joe Zatylny, fire chief, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services

The Edmonton Public Safety and Community Response Task Force will meet for the first time on Dec. 13.

“I want to help be a part of the solution. We are facing an

Public documents are:

(a) The written official acts, or records of the official acts of the sovereign authority, official bodies and tribunals, and public officers, whether of the Philippines, or of a foreign country; (b) Documents acknowledged before a notary public except for last wills and testaments; and

(c) Public records, kept in the Philippines, of private documents required by law to be entered therein.

All other writings are private. (20a) Section 20. Proof of private document.

Section 21. When evidence of authenticity of private documents is not necessary. — Where a private document is more than thirty years old, is produced from the custody in which it would naturally be found if genuine, and is unblemished by any alterations or circumstances of suspicion, no other evidence of its authenticity need be given. (22a)

Section 22. How genuineness of handwriting is proven. — The handwriting of a person may be proven by any witness who believes it to be the handwriting of such person because he has seen the person write, or has seen writing purporting to be his upon which the witness has acted or been charged, and has thus acquired knowledge of the handwriting of such person.

addiction crisis right here in our Nation. Our people face obstacles of intergenerational trauma and as a result, mental health and addiction issues are deeply impacting our families and communities. Addiction is more than an individual issue. It impacts us all: our children, our members, our community. There’s an imbalance physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. We need to do better for our people, our Nation. This task force is a step in the right direction and the positive impacts can be multi-generational.”

Chief Isaac A. Laboucan-Avirom, Woodland Cree First Nation

“This is a broad, integrated partnership that reaches across jurisdictions and departments and holds a foundational belief that community wellness must be built in tandem with community safety. The integrated approach here was called for across the province’s housing, mental health and addiction and human trafficking task forces. It is essential leadership if we are going to unpack the multi-layered issues impacting those dealing with addiction, mental health and homelessness, and I am pleased to see the province move forward with this urgent work.”

Dale McFee, chief of police, Edmonton

Prima-Facie means "at first view." In legal terms, this means that evidence is sufficient to raise a presumption of fact or to establish the fact in question unless questioned. In a prima-facie lawsuit, the facts are presented as adequate enough to show that underlying conduct supports the cause of action, and will prove successful in court.(upcounsel.com)

Lastly, Quantum of Evidence means the amount of evidence needed; the quality of proof is how reliable such evidence should be considered. (Wikipedia)

Always consider all proof and all pieces of Evidence in all cases before you assume.

Happy Holidays, especially to my beloved Getigan Family in the Philippines, TGP/S Ramon Magsaysay Cubao High School Chapter, Triskelion Order of Law, Triskelion In Government, 7LLEG, Stanford upper Cubao Community Chapter and New York Triskelion.

Police Services

Alberta spends more than $1 billion annually on addiction and mental health care and supports, including prevention, intervention, treatment and recovery. This includes adding more than 8,000 new publicly funded treatment spaces; eliminating daily user fees for residential addiction treatment; launching the Digital Overdose Response System (DORS) app; expanding opioid agonist treatment; and fully covering the cost of the injectable opioid treatment drug Sublocade.

Fr. Jhack Diaz

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

Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Municipal Affairs

Chief Billy Morin, Enoch Cree Nation

Health Services Edmonton Zone

Susan McGee, chief executive officer, Homeward Trust

Though December tends to conjure optimism, hope and love from the collective, holiday festivities will be especially uplifting to you as the Sagittarius sun,

Your vibrant imagination will carry you through much of the month, dear Libra, as the sun, Venus and Mercury travel through Sagittarius and your solar third house. This cosmic climate will sharpen your wit and your ability to see beyond the mundane. It can help you make headway with your goals as long as you’re willing to use your voice. This would also be an ideal time to build on your existing knowledge, because your mind craves the experience of learning. Just be careful about the people you confide in or share ideas with right now, because many won’t be in the mood to guard someone else’s secrets.

With the holiday spirit in full swing, you’ll need to keep tabs on your spending, dear Scorpio, because the Sagittarius sun, Venus and Mercury all travel through your solar second house. This celestial environment could unleash your generous nature and cause you to go overboard when shopping for holiday gifts. If you plan on participating in festivities with your family and friends, you might want to consider implementing a collective shopping list and budget to ensure that everyone contributes equally to such gatherings.

It will be hard to wipe the smile off your face this month, dear Gemini, because the Sagittarius sun, Venus and Mercury are all traveling through the sector of your chart that governs love. This cosmic climate will have you smitten with your life and the world around you, making it the ideal time to nurture your most valued relationships. If you’re on the hunt for a new partner, these vibes are perfect for putting yourself out there. However, self-care and maintaining balance within your heart and mind will play a vital role in surviving the holiday season, so try not to spread yourself too thin between social engagements and work.

You’re considered to be one of the most nurturing members of the zodiac, dear Cancer, which means the holiday season can be a busy and somewhat overwhelming time for you. As the Sagittarius sun travels through your solar sixth house, you’ll likely be working overtime to make sure everything is in order for the festivities that lie ahead, though you’ll need to be mindful of implementing healthy stress management techniques. With Venus and Mercury accompanying the sun in the sign of the Archer, it would be easy to get carried away with your plans, so try not to put unrealistic expectations on yourself.

You’ll be full of surprises as the Sagittarius sun, Venus and Mercury travel through your solar fifth house, dear Leo, reinvigorating your desire for action and adventure. These vibes will push you to explore new horizons, especially when it comes to spending time with loved

Roads will open for you this month, dear Sagittarius, as the sun, Venus and Mercury move through your sign. This cosmic climate will make you feel as though you’re on top of the world, though issues could arise if you lose touch with your sense of balance. A fierce ambition and desire to make strides with your goals could cause you to neglect self-care routines, which will be more important than ever as Mars travels backward through Gemini. Remember to pace yourself and take plenty of breaks throughout each day, even when you feel as though you could move and shake for hours on end.

Mercury enters your sign on December 6, bringing through some cosmic support that will help you endure surface level pleasantries even when you’d rather be cozied up at home with a cup of tea and a nice book.

Get ready for a busy month, dear Aquarius, as the Sagittarius sun, Venus and Mercury move through the sector of your chart that governs community. This cosmic climate will amp up your social life and popularity as the holiday season continues to unfold, though you shouldn’t pressure yourself to accept every invitation sent your way. You’ll become more introverted once Mercury enters Capricorn on December 6, putting you in a quiet and reflective headspace.

The vibe will be charged this month, dear Pisces, as the sun, Venus and Mercury travel through fiery Sagittarius, activating the sector of your chart that governs professional ambitions. While this cosmic climate is poised to be a lucky one, issues could arise if you bite off more than you can chew. Understanding your limitations will play a huge role in your ability to work with the energy at play, making it important that you maintain an objective and patient disposition.

Alberta Filipino Journal Christmas Party

Alberta Filipino Journal had a very successful Christmas Party on December 9, 2022 at Sarap-Sarap Catering & Restaurant.

The celebration was brightly coloured by the presence of our staff, families, and friends. Our heartfelt gratitude to all the staff for working hard throughout the year.

We want to give a huge thank you to Katrina Cereno, Kristian Cereno, and Ferdie Sy for blessing us with your beautiful voices. Our appreciation also goes to the staff of Sarap-Sarap for the amazing food and venue, as well as to Benj De Guzman Decker and Bhelle Villanueva Sunar, who emceed the party and ensured we were all having a great time throughout the evening.

Congratulations to all the winners of the raffle prizes!

Back: Mike Angeles, Mervin Cereno, Kristian Cereno, Nicky Gocuan, Bing Jaleco, Lito Velasco

Front: Melanie Angeles, Lianne Angeles, Ida Beltran-Lucila, Jose Angeles, Giselle General, Katrina Marielle Cereno, Marjorie Carmona-Newman, Mark Angeles

CELEBRATIONS OF LIFE: Moving Forward

Happy birthday, Jencet Montano! -December 18

Agape

Happy birthday, Ana De Leon, Lydia Jimenez, and Eddie Gonzales!

L-R: Editor Lito Velasco, Dennis, Marco Ligasan, Mo Billacura, Doc Rod Montano, Ana De Leon, Lydia Jimenez, Publisher Jun Angeles, Andy Chua

L-R: Monica Ligasan, Jencet Montano, Malou Delera-Filasol, Helen Cue Regier, Amelia Ligasan, Ana De Leon (November 24 celebrant), Lydia Jimenez (November 17 celebrant), Doctor Chum

Happy birthday Lydia Jimenez of Palabok House - November 17, Ana Gutierez-De Leon of Pokē and More - November 24

Eddie Gonzales of Palabok House - November 18

Happy 15th birthday Aaron Velasco (December 8)

L-R, Front: Kenneth Pagay, Marian De Guzman; Back: Renier Aquino, baby Reeze Kayden and mom Christine Aquino, Princess De Guzman, mom Richel Alipio, baby Axel Pike (December 7), dad Alfie Alipio, Janet Tamayo-Mora, Maricel Aquino (December 7), Romy Nacilla, Ghie Nacilla, nanay Cora Velasco

L-R Back: Alan Tejada, Nanay Cora Velasco, Ghie Nacilla, Dad Alfie Alipio, Romy Nacilla; Front: Mom Richel and baby Axel, the celebrant.

L-R Front: Sedes Cereno, Gabriel Cereno, Katrina Cereno, Kaye Cereno; Back: Mervin Cereno (November 29 celebrant), Cherry Cereno, Abel Cereno, Edgardo Cereno, Marianne Cereno-Minano, Cora Velasco, Jonah Minano, Ghie Nacilla, Romy Nacilla

birthday celebration and a family reunion. Happy Birthday Engr. Mervin Cereno!

Mrs. Lourdes “Odette” Del Rosario is 80 and is looking forward to a long and healthy life.

Mommy Odette Del Rosario

Dancing with AFJ publisher Jun Angeles