Alberta Filipino Journal - December 2018 Issue

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Miss Universe 2018 P5

Fill our hearts with Joy, Love, and forgiveness during the Season and throughout the New Year!

DECEMBER 2018 • Volume 11, Number 12

AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

PBSA: Philanthropic Mission at Hope Mission P27

Premier Notley meets with Filipino community

Denies Oversold Tickets P16

Journal editor invited to run for MLA P7

Premier Rachel Notley with the members of the Filipino community, December 17, during the Christmas' Meet and Greet at the Alberta Legislature. Joining the Premier (holding a Philippine flag) are Minister of Labor Christina Gray(extreme left) and MLA Jessica Littlewood (extreme right). (Photo by Moses Billacura) P5

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BUSINESS

DECEMBER 2018

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

EDITORIAL | BUSINESS

DECEMBER 2018

EDITOR’S CORNER Lito Mendoza Velasco

To Love Is To Have Christmas is a Gift; to love is a Choice.

Christmas Season is the perfect expression of God's Love; and a happy life is its fruit.

Whoever accepts or receives the gift is partaking the power of love. However, some of us would have rather chosen to feel bitter than better; preferred to be empty shells rather than a fully-loaded source of power-shelter; and therefore, could hardly be able to share the joy, peace, and blessings that the Christmas can bring to every heart and soul.

There are two things to choose from during this Season: 1) A mind and heart full of peace and joy, and 2) Ears filled with trouble. Your choice!

Life is a gift; giving life as a gift is a choice.

If life is a gift, then, it should be appreciated and enjoyed. Is this a paradigm? Is it universal? I don’t think so. During this Season, reciprocating gifts is normally expected especially by children. Giving gifts is usually coupled with the elements of surprise from either ends. Sometimes, the ones giving the gifts are the ones being surprised.

Why? For the reason that the recipient doesn’t like what is given to him. Why? because he has already set a standard—the mind has already been conditioned with what kind of gift is going to be received. Does he have to reject or refuse the gift then? But it is insulting doing so. The result therefore is to just take the gift

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home and put it in the stock room. It turns meaningless then. It is lifeless then. !

Christmas and life are both gifts. Can we equate the meaning of both by having a gift?

That, when there is no gift, then, there is no life?

Ask yourself the essentials of life: Am I a gift or Do I have a gift this Christmas time?

Do I accept the gift I see or just rejecting even the Gift-Giver? Do you choose to love or to hate? Your choice!

But still then, Let’s all share the gift of life and salvation while celebrating the Holy Season. May we all be blessed with all the joy that life can bring during the Season and throughout the New Year.

WHAT's Inside:

Experiences you can get from discrimination: Humbling, Mumbling, Gambling.

Can’t get over with the experience I and my kids had last night.

I and my kids were almost hit by a disrespectful borncanadian driver. Not only that, he yelled at me like a roaring lion: “You idiot! Go back to your Country!”

It was deeply a hurting experience for me and maybe, to any immigrant in this Country. There were three options that sparked in my mind and I applied the first: I tried to compose myself and just ignore him. However, he acted like a cork being pushed down on the water as he continued to insult me in my kid’s presence. So, I applied the second, I was mumbling by continued on page 6 ►

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A reader's guide

Editor’s Corner Make Our Daily Gospel Reading Trending Premier Notley Meets With Filipino...

Miss Universe 2018 Just Listen Sports Journal Artospective - An Artist’s Point Of View Jan The Man’s Note Migrants' Voices Through A Teenager’s Eyes Philppine Cultural Center Foundation Denies Oversold Tickets Ryan `Gold’ Gento Writes...

General Point Of View From Migration To Immigration Radyo Sa Dyaryo Filipinavigation From A Dream Into A Beam From A Vantage Point Human Nature Canada

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Make Our Daily Gospel Reading Trending

Like it and share it!

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

Wednesday of the First week of Advent: Year C Matthew 15:29-37

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oday I would like to share 3 Cs with you. Our Gospel starts with a CRISIS. What’s the crisis? It is a Great crowd of

sick people following Jesus without anything to eat. There is a situation of sickness and scarcity. This kind of situation is still true nowadays.

RELIGION | INSPIRATION | BUSINESS There is so much hunger everywhere.

It might be hunger for food, hunger for relationships, financial hunger, spiritual hunger, etc.

Hunger is not caused by scarcity of food but by scarcity of generosity and justice. That is why Jesus asked his disciples “How many loaves do you have?” Miracles start to happen when we learn to share and give what we have. Take note of this my friends, life is not about accumulation but it is all about contribution.

Never think that what you have to offer is insignificant. Friends, this is the spirit of Christmas: give not to get out of it, but to inspire others to give. There will always be someone out there that needs what you have to give. Brethren, today the gospel is inviting us to learn how to CONTRIBUTE. Give, but give until it hurts. St. Teresa of Calcutta once said: “If you can't feed hundreds of people then feed just one.”

Carmona-Newman, Salumbides receive TFCC awards

DECEMBER 2018

When we contribute there will be COUNTLESS and overflowing blessings. “The crowd ate and were filled and they took up broken left overs, seven baskets full.” When we share we attract abundance. The more we share, the more we have.

The gospel reminds us of this too: Our God is not a stingy God. Life is good because God is great. Friends,

don’t just count your blessings.

Be the blessing that other people count on. And finally, in this season of Christmas; love the giver more than the gifts.

I wish you a Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year.

Blessings, Fr. Jhack

By Moses Billacura

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wo Filipino business owners in Edmonton received awards during The Filipino Champions of Canada (TFCC) Gala Night and Awards, December 13, at the Barrio Fiesta in Calgary.

Marjorie Carmona-Newman, owner of MCN Immigration Consulting, and Kris Salumbides, co-founder of the Quality Care Group of Companies, were recognized for their contribution to the community.

Newman, who is the UCP candidate in the Glenora riding for next year’s provincial election, received an award for “Excellence in Community Service” while Salumbides, who established Quality Sleep Care, Alberta Medical Supplies and Medicus Family Clinic and Pharmacy with his business partners Jessie Tallon and Jacob Christian, was given an award for “Excellence in Entrepreneurship”.

Newman, who arrived in Canada 13

years ago, is treasurer of the Philippine Business Society of Alberta (PBSA) and a columnist of the Alberta Filipino Journal.

For years, she has been active in various Filipino community events.

Salumbides, who started as an Overseas Filipino Worker in Canada in 2008, and his partners have been backing Filipino community events, mostly involving OFWs in the province and the companies they co-owned have employed more than 60 Filipino-Albertans. He and his partners have opened also their doors to future entrepreneurs when they conducted the “Business Start-Ups Road Map To Success” Conference last February 3 in Edmonton.

Salumbides, a registered sleep technologist by profession, said that their hard work paid off and after six years of operation, they are planning to expand to other provinces.(with reports from EA Odron, TFCC)

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

DECEMBER 2018

COMMUNITY | INSPIRATION | PARA-LEGAL SERVICES | BUSINESS

Premier Notley meets with Filipino community

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Catriona Gray is Miss Universe 2018

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he contestant from the Philippines, Ms. Catriona Gray is the most beautiful woman in the universe.

Gray was crowned as Miss Universe 2018 during the pageant’s coronation night held at the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand, on Monday. She bested contestants from South Africa and Venezuela in the Top 3, and also topped candidates from 91 other candidates.

The 24-year-old beauty queen from Albay is the fourth Miss U titleholder from the Philippines, following Pia Wurtzbach in 2015, Margie Moran in 1973 and Gloria Diaz in 1969.

The coronation was hosted by comedian Steve Harvey and supermodel Ashley Graham.

- Manitoba Filipino Journal

Premier Rachel Notley appreciates the Filipiniana clothing designed by Fely Agader of Fort Saskatchewan. (Photo by Moses Billacura)

By Moses Billacura

Premier Rachel Notley met with leaders and members of the Filipino community, Dec.17, in a Christmas' Meet and Greet at the Alberta Legislature.

Clarizze Truscott of the Kabisig Society of Saskatchewan, publisher Jun Angeles of the Alberta Filipino Journal, Resty Reyes of Fly Friendly Travel and Tours, Marco Luciano of

Migrante Alberta, Nicky Gocuan of the Philippine Media Association of Alberta and some of their members came to meet and talk to the Premier, Labor Minister Christina Gray and MLA Jessica Littlewood.

Fely Agader of Agader Fashion & Designs presented the Premier with a Filipiniana clothing as a Christmas present on behalf of the Filipino community.

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COMMUNITY

DECEMBER 2018

Crosstown Auto basketball team X'mas party Crosstown Auto Centre basketball team led by dealer-principal Joe Medina and coach Ches Tiongson celebrate their Christmas party, Dec.16, at the Manila Grill with the players and members of their family.

from page 3

Experiences you can get ...

telling him: “Bro, I can’t go back to my Country. You know why?

First, because of Canadians like you. We should teach you how to respect. Second, Canadians like you cannot manage your own Country.” He kept murmuring furiously. And I was supposed to apply my third option-Gambling.

I told myself, I have to gamble now by retaliating to his rage.

I was supposed to tell him: “Hey bro, do you want me to kill you in your own Country?” But because I was a man of good values, I still managed to control my emotion and re-applied the first option.

Being meek and humble!

Lesson-learned: “Repay hatred with kindness.” Especially in front of the kids and most especially Christmas is just around the corner. Our Lord managed to humble Himself despite tribulations!

1. What will you do under this circumstance?

2. I know, the government has the program about discrimination and racism. How can they closely monitor and implement those policies and sanctions against those who are discriminating?

3. Is there a measuring stick as to how can racism, bullying, and discrimination be gauged/graded/ rated? How can we prove verbal abuse in Court? Especially when there’s no witness!

4. If in case, I ran out of control and hurt the discriminators back; how long do I have to serve such action in jail?

By the way, there is always a reparation for every ruined values. He who understands must firmly stand. Fellow Filipinos, as the 2018 ends, racism and discrimination must also end.

Ang protektahan ang ating karapatan ay hindi kalabisan at kayabangan. Maging matapang hindi sa away; kundi sa pangangatwiran.

Oras na upang magsuportahan ng sa ganun, walang ibang lahi o indibidwal man ang sa atin ay tatampalasan. Mas mainam kesa tayo ay magbangayan,magpataasan, at magsiraan!

Magmahalan at matutong sa bawat-isa ay managutan!

Iyan ang mensahe at diwa ng Kapaskuhan!

Maligayang Pasko at Isang Mapagpalayang Bagong Taon!

Photos by Moses Billacura | Alberta Filipino Journal

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

OPINION | POLITICS | BUSINESS

DECEMBER 2018

Alberta Healthcare in danger?

NICKY GOCUAN ngocuan@yahoo.com

As a journalist with over 14 years of experience, I have covered different events from rallies on the street, entertainment and international sports events like the Asian Games. My favorite pastime is singing. I have always believed that life would be boring without music.

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he Federal Government spent $4.5 Billion in taxpayers' money to buy the Trans Mountain Pipeline so it can be built, but it was stopped by the Federal Court of Appeals because it failed in its duty to consult the First Nations.

So it is clear that the Trudeau administration did not do its job in consulting the First Nations.

While I agree that they should have been consulted, the Trans Mountain Pipeline is a top priority project that affects the whole country.

It is in the best interest of the whole country to get the pipeline built so we can tap global markets. This means more jobs for people and this will lead to an improvement in their livelihoods.

This shows you the lack of political will the Trudeau government has to build this pipeline. As the Federal Government, you can definitely go back to the Court and reiterate the importance of the pipeline for the economy of this country. Every country wants to get their products on the global market and Canada should do so as well. This way, we are not lenient in selling out oil to the United States of America.

What is even worse is that Canada, which produces oil, imports oil from Saudi Arabia. While Canadians go hungry, the people of Saudi Arabia are happy. No offense to Saudi Arabia, obviously their leaders

are just looking out for their people but can the same be said about our leaders? There is something terribly wrong with this picture.

So if we have oil, why do we need to import it? Why not use our own oil like Norway? With the way it is going, it seems to me that the Trudeau government is not keen on getting the Trans Mountain pipeline project done. We know their concerns on environmental impacts, but how about hungry Canadians? Not getting your number one export product out om the Global Market is like saying the Canadian Oil business is closed.

This is the reason why there is a strong clamour for Western Canada especially Alberta & Saskatchewan, to separate from Canada. ***** As the Provincial elections draw near, it is getting louder and louder that people are not happy about the Carbon Tax. Why are we paying carbon tax when the Federal Government cannot even get the Trans Mountain Pipeline built?

If there is no livelihood, where are we going to get the money to pay the carbon tax?The Trudeau administration has said that they give back 90% of the carbon tax back to the people, if this is true then why did you charge so much in the first place? And who administers these cheques and how much do they spend in taxpayers' money

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to administer the payouts? An unsolicited piece of advice that I can give to Alberta Premier Rachel Notely is to tell Prime Minister Trudeau that we will stop collecting carbon tax if the Trans Mountain Pipeline is not built. ***** First and Foremost, let me make it clear that the reason why I am raising this is because it affects every Albertan. Health is wealth.

Without a good healthcare system, we are in deep trouble. So the word is out that Alberta Conservatives Leader Jason Kenney is out to cut healthcare spending in an effort to try to balance the books. But by doing this, they will introduce a Private healthcare System. In short, there will be a dual system running.

Now you might be wondering, wouldn’t a dual system be better?

That is what you think.

Why create a Privatized system when you already have a good healthcare system. Our existing healthcare system just needs some tweaking to make it better and reduce the wait times.

There is a lot of ways that this can be done. If there is a need for more doctors, then why won’t we bring in more qualified doctors? While I understand that doctors from another country cannot just come to Canada to practice immediately, the Provincial Government can provide more tools to attract them and get them integrated into our Healthcare System with the help of the Doctors' Associations.

A dual healthcare system is not needed because with our current system, you still can opt to go see a private Doctor at your own expense.

Kenney says it would be healthier for there to be competition. He believes this will improve wait times.

How can this improve wait times when the Public Healthcare System is missing doctors? By creating a private system, doctors can go private and the Public System will suffer more because as it is, we do

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

not have enough doctors plus the System will be divided into two.

This will also separate the people with money from the people who do not have the money.Will this divide the house? Let me know what you think. ***** The Year 2018 is almost over. To our Publisher, Jose Angeles Jr., our hardworking Editor,Lito Velasco and all the AFJ staff and the Members of the PMAA (Philippine Media

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Association of Alberta) HimigPinoy 101.7 and Tala Luvz Radio 94.7 FM Calgary, to all my friends and all our avid readers, followers and supporters. I want to wish each and everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May 2019 bring you and your family good health, more blessings and prosperity.

2018 was a very tough year for me and my family. For all the people who stood by me and offered their prayers, I cannot thank you enough.

To God Be the Glory.

Journal editor invited to run for MLA under Liberal party

By Moses Billacura

Journal editor Lito Velasco has received an invitation from the highest ranking Liberal Party official in Alberta to run for MLA. Federal minister Amarjeet Sohi made the invitation during a Liberal Party fund-raising event, November 14, at the Palace Banquet Hall.

Velasco was present at the event to represent Journal publisher Jun Angeles.

“I am willing to serve but I don’t have the funds to run a campaign,” admitted Velasco.

There are so far two Filipinos gunning for MLA posts in the province including Journal columnist Marjorie Carmona-Newman.

Newman is running under the United Conservative Party.

Philippine Media Association of Alberta president Nicky Gocuan welcomed the news saying that it is high time for a Filipino to seek an MLA post in the province.

“It’s about time,” said Gocuan.

Journal publisher Jun Angeles added that the editor has been actively serving the community for years already and seeking a position in the Legislative Assembly is a welcome development.

Federal minister Amarjeet Sohi welcomes Journal editor Lito Velasco at a fundraising event, November 14, at the Palace Banquet Hall in Edmonton.

(Photo by Moses Billacura)

“We hope Lito will consider running,” said Angeles, who as a newspaper publisher has been looking forward to seeing a Filipino serving in the Alberta legislature.

www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

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SPORTS

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

DECEMBER 2018

Amirax wins over Quickly Premium Bubble Tea by just two points, 1st Gan Soo Do league SPORTS JOURNAL MOSES BILLACURA mo.sports@gmail.com

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

I

don’t know if it was intentional or not when our good friend Dodo de Guzman entered the court wearing the Crosstown Auto Centre jersey during the recent 2018 St. Albert Ballers Club Basketball League.

As a result, referee Jonas Iral blew the whistle citing a rule that players should wear the official uniform. Dodo thought he brought his Quickly Premium Bubble TeaUnited Express Cargo uniform but later on found out that the Crosstown Auto jersey was the only one in his bag.

Dodo! That’s the problem when you play in various Filipino basketball leagues, so many uniforms to wear, hahahaha. Technical tuloy! *** Philippine Media Association of Alberta’s Lito Velasco of the Filipino Journal and Rolan Latorre of World FM 101.7 Himig Pinoy, who is actually a long-time basketball referee, took the time to watch the final game between Amirax Mortgages and Real Estate and Quickly Premium Bubble Tea-United Express Cargo that Saturday morning, Nov.17, at the St. Albert High School gym.

It was actually an exciting game with Amirax scoring a come-frombehind victory, 73-71. Leandro Baui, who was out for a year because of a knee surgery, was back in action and emerged as the most valuable player for Amirax.

Dondon Tagufa was awarded final’s MVP trophy. Selected to the mythical five were Baui, Tonton Adefuin, Joshua Martos, Richard Haro and Oliver Branzuela while the defensive team awardees were Aren Perez, Earl Orquez, T.Adefuin, Ralph Tutaan and O. Oliver. Adefuin bagged the best defensive player award.

Juff Sampaga, Blake Olado, Wayne Agbang, Floyd Eyao and Arcien Fallarcuna were chosen to the playmaking team with Eyao winning the best play maker award.

Voted to the Rainbow Team were Baui, Virson Orquez, Cage Abella, Umali and John Cabahug with Baui winning the rainbow king award.

Best coach award went to Alvin Mapa and best uniform award to Team Knights.

Team Knights placed third and Fort Saskatchewan Montana’s BBQ & Bar took the fourth spot.

The organizing Unity of chairman Richard Betilia, commissioner Dominic Narbonita, director Jonas Iral, head commissioner Dennis

Dacles, committee members Marci Ventura, Cathy Narbonita, Isko Hilario, Jay-r Carrasca, Bakks Santos and Jhel Iral thanked the players for participating in the league and FilCan Cars for sponsoring the league.

See you in the next league! *** Gan Soo Do made history in Canada when it organized its 1st Gan Soo Do League, December 1, at the UFC Gym in Red Deer.

Master Steve S. Grandeza (extreme left) with tournament officials and winners of the 1st Gan Soo Do League, December 1, at the UFC Gym in Red Deer.(Contributed photo)

The other results: Special bout GSD/Kickboxing: Champion, Matthew Lambert, 2nd, Donato Tecson. Women's Division: Champion, Jessica Belter, 2nd, Maria Mill, 3rd, Rose Vargas.

Class A: Champion, Jimmy Abril, 2nd, Emily Berg, 3rd, North Cacal.

Class B: Champion, Matthew Lambert, 2nd, Dylon Featherstone, 3rd, Brendan Takekoshi.

Jojo Malagum of Quickly Premium Bubble Team-United Express Cargo holds on to the ball as Amirax's Lem Baui tries to steal it from him during the finals of the 2018 St. Albert Ballers Club League, Nov.17, at the St.Albert High School.

Amirax won, 73-71.(Photo by Moses Billacura)

Gan Soo Do, started by grandmaster Chingi Grandeza in the Philippines, is currently being promoted by his grandson master Steve S. Grandeza in Canada at the UFC gym and the recent league he organized it with master Byron Marundan. Masters Julius Galve, roman Adrich Cuison, Fr.Carlos Jimenez, SVD, Fr.Jun Ibay also came to Red Deer to serve as judges.

Special awards were also given to Matthew Lambert, Red Knights Gan Soo Do; Don Tecson, best fighter; Felicia Crowe, sportsmanship; Pamela Drever, most improved fighter; Benjamin Mill, most disciplined, Alexis Biel, most courageous fighter.

Team B Captains Emily Berg and Maria Mill emerged as champion in the group kata/hyungs competition while Team A Cage Crushers' Matthew Lambert and North Cacal placed second and Team B Cage Crushers' Pamela Drever, Rose Vargas and Jessica Belter took the third spot.

Mill won the individual kata/ hyungs competition, besting Lambert and Berg who placed 2nd and 3rd, respectively.

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Mosquito Division: Champion, Abygayle Belter, 2nd, Benjamin Mill, 3rd, Annabelle Belter.

Mini Division: Champion: Marcus Andal, 2nd, Alexander Mill, 3rd, Elila Biel.

Juniors Division: Champion, Tristan Tecson, 2nd, Keith Odevillas.

To the organizers at UFC gym Red Deer and participants, congratulations! ***

Again, we are call members of the Filipino sports community in Alberta Province to keep us posted of your events by emailing us at mocolumnist@ albertafilipinojournal.com or giving us a call at (780)807-4743.

To all sports-loving Albertans, Merry Christmas and let us continue to be involved in sports, either as athletes or sponsors!

Amirax, coached by Joe Simon (2nd from left, standing) with players and their family members pose for posterity after winning the 2018 St. Albert Ballers Club, Nov.17, at the St.Albert High School. (Photo by Moses Billacura)

Calgary Amateur Golfers Representing Canada in the Audi Quattro Cup World Finals in Kitzbuhel, Austria.

By Fred Molina

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wo fine Filipino Golfers, Fred Molina and Leo Casuga of Calgary have successfully qualified for the prestigious Audi Quattro Cup World Final 2018 ,among 80,000 participants and have represented CANADA amongst 43 other nations in KITZBUHEL, AUSTRIA. After qualifying for the Audi Royal Oak Quattro cup on July 23,2018 at Bearspaw Golf and Country Club Calgary, they went on to Crowbush Golf and Country club in Morell, Prince Edward Island on August 24-27,2018 {to qualify for the Audi Quattro Cup Canadian Finals 2018.] Having qualified, they had the overwhelming success to represent Canada in a lifetime golf experience on a world-class Golf course in Kitzbuhel, Austria last September 23 _ 27 2018.

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

ARTS | BUSINESS

DECEMBER 2018

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Art for Social Change: Viscosity and the Right to Exist

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n this past month, I attended two events that remarkably utilized art to deliver messages for social change. The first was Theatre Yes’ “Viscosity”, which ran from November 7-17, and “The Right to Exist: An Evening of Arts and Culture”,presented

by Migrante Alberta and Climate Justice Edmonton, last December 8.

Viscosity was a uniquely staged production in the manner of performance and installation, tackling real life stories of people working in the front line of the oil industry. It featured a powerhouse cast - Chris Bullough, Leo Campus Aldunez, Murray Farnell, Byron Martin, Sandy Paddick, Melissa Thingelstad, and our very own, Filipino Jimmy Buena. This performance thrust people to engage in one-on-one encounters with the actors,absorbing the highs and lows of their respective

Artospective - an artist’s point of view IDA BELTRAN-LUCILA ida_b_lucila@yahoo.com

experiences. The vignettes were culled from transcripts of interviews and delivered verbatim. The most heartrending of which was the story of a Filipino worker entangled in the ploys of an illegal recruiter.

Jimmy Buena delivered a compelling portrayal, and I saw severalin the audience in tears.

The production garnered rave reviews: ... unlike anything we’ve seen on Edmonton’s stages before ( Jenna Marynowski, After the House Lights);

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... I invoke no hyperbole at all when I say it was one of the most engaging and enjoyable artistic experiences of my life (Dylan Howard, film director). We may know and have heard of experiences like these in the oil industry, but this staging just brought things to the heart. The transcripts of the interviews made for Viscosity will be provided to the Alberta Labour History Institute.

Theatre Yes is a company dedicated to “responding to local, national and international conversations in thought-provoking ways. To know more about their work, go to theatre-yes.ca.

The Right to Exist: An Evening of Arts and Culture, was held in commemoration of International Human Rights Day and International Migrants’ Day. It brought together activists, supporters, and artists across the Treaty 6 territory. It was a night of music, spoken word, visual arts, and thought provoking messages. The blessing was given by Elder Eli Green. Different cultures were presented in the performances

provided by: drumming byCarol Powser and Chubby Cheeks (Noah), 8 year old with a powerful voice; dry humour from comedian Mav Adecer; soulful and passionate singing by Chilean Marianela Adasme, Jesse Cunningham, Lyla Luciano, and trio Gregie Flores, Gina May Ramirez and Gemalil Bonaobra; spoken words by Shima Robinson and Brandon Wint. The performances addressed issues of displacement, racism, advocacy, and healing.

Whitney Haynes shared her insights from a trip to the Philippines where indigenous tribes were violently displaced and abused in favour of a Canadian mining business. Visual artist Yazmin Juarez exhibited works of exploring the imagination and

of art as the balance and catalyst for social awareness, specially made for the event.

Art breaks down language barriers. Even when performed in a foreign tongue, the passion and spirit of the delivery still sends the message across. Interestingly enough, the issues that had roots from one culture resonates in various levels with another culture, setting and time. This demonstrates that these are universal issues, that events have a ripple effect across humanity, and that people don’t live in silos.

Both events made me ache and naively wonder how these things can happen in our world.

It made me grateful that there are continued on page 12 ►

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

COMMUNITY | BUSINESS | IMMIGRATION CONSULTANCY SERVICES

A Tradition of Joy and Thanksgiving

FSCA: Oath-Taking and Christmas Party Flilipino Senior Citizen Association (FSCA) celebrated its Christmas Party last December15th, at the Korean Community Hall with Dinner and Dancing. Highlights of the evening was the induction of the newly elected officers for the years, 2019 to 2020, by MP for the Edmonton West, MP Kelly McCauley Is being assisted

by James Cumming, MP Central in the awarding of the certificates! The FSCA Officers inductees are: President-Lucy Manuntag; Vice-President-Rose Lampa; Secretary-Tess Banaag; Asst. SecretaryJosie Bilo; Treasurer-Dave Guanlao; Asst.

Treasurer-Linda Santarina; Auditor-Leo de Jesus; PRO-Abel Cereno; Sgt. at ArmsVictor Nocum; Board of Directors-Miguel Cartasano, Sol Lampa, Jessie Mahinay, Minda Mendoza, Nelly Naval, Emy Sacluti, August Sune and Inday Toledo.

A group of employees from the Alberta Health Services, University of Alberta Hospital, General Services Department gathered and exchanged gifts at the starlight Restaurant in West Edmonton Mall last December 14, 2018.

AO Canada Ties Its Bond Harder

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DECEMBER 2018

Toronto - The brotherhood’s bond has been tightened by the commemoration of the Child Jesus’ birth during this Yuletide Season.

From all of us here at the Professional Triskelions of Canada, a warmest greetings to all of you our dear kababayan. MERRY CHRISTMAS!

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

OPINION | BUSINESS

DECEMBER 2018

Keeping Christ in Christmas JAN THE MAN’S NOTE JANUEL CEDRICK IBASCO Januel Cedrick Ibasco is a proud Filipino-Canadian and is currently a student at the University of Alberta studying for a Bachelor of Arts in Recreation, Sport, and Tourism in the Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation. Sportsmanship is a big slice of his cake. He is highly-spirited when playing golf, volleyball, and basketball and loves reading, writing and volunteering at church. Jan looks forward to taking up law after his undergraduate degree.

W

e are only a couple weeks away from one of the most anticipated days of the year: Christmas! During the Christmas season, it is easy to get caught up in material things like

presents, the lights and all the delicious food. However, it is important to look past all these things during this time of year because Christmas is so much more than that. Christmas is a time for reconnecting with

family and friends, giving back to the community, and spreading kindness to one another.

When driving through the city and looking at different advertisements that try to entice possible consumers, I almost always see the quote Merry ‘Xmas’ obviously shortened for the actual saying of Merry Christmas. And I think to myself, when did this trend of taking the word Christ out of Christmas become so normalized during this time of year?When I see that quote, I see that a shortcut is being made to get a point across. However, in life there are no shortcuts. Christmas gives each of us the chance to get closer with our families but most importantly, to God. For us to truly become closer with God in mind, body, and spirit, we must embrace that there are no shortcuts in life. That is why this Christmas season, we must make a continuous effort to keep Christ in Christmas, for this most special day of the year would not have existed without the Lord.

I wish all of you a heartfelt Christmas with all of your families, filled with love, joy and prayer. See you next year and God Bless.

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Metro Medical Supplies open in Edmonton

Marky Legaspi of Metro Medical Supplies is ready to answer any questions with regards to your needs for medical supplies.

By Moses Billacura

M

etro Medical Supplies opened its doors on December 7 at 9876 33 Avenue NW in Edmonton.

Marky Legaspi, MMS representative, said the new medical supplies company has made available all the medical equipment along with back support, knee support, wrist support, ankle support, orthotic insoles, compression stockings supplies to all.

He said employees who have

group insurance coverage can use their benefits including self-employed who may need a medical equipment because of injuries or physical pain.

Legaspi, who used to be on air over World FM 101.7 Himig Pinoy, said they are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Friday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

“Meron pa kaming direct billing and we can help them with the process,” said Legaspi, who can be reached at (780) 298-7662.

Photo by Moses Billacura | Alberta Filipino Journal

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COMMUNITY | BUSINESS | POLITICS | ARTS

DECEMBER 2018

Wefix launches re-branding

Wefix Automotive Repair hosts Chris Ayson and Laarni Lising with clients and friends at the Wefix Appreciation Night, Dec.1, at the Sejong Hall.

By Moses Billacura

Wefix Autoglass is now known as Wefix Automotive Repair.

The re-branding was launched during the Wefix Appreciation Night at the Sejong Hall by vice-president for operations Chris Ayson and marketing manager Laarni Lising with clients and friends in attendance, December 1.

Ayson said they have been in business for the last 10 years and started with doing auto glass repairs on its first year and eventually moving on to auto repair.

Wefix moved to its new home at 9944-67 Avenue NW, a better and wider working space for the growing company.

“Thank you to all our customers and friends for continually supporting Wefix,” said Lising.

Photo by Moses Billacura | Alberta Filipino Journal

Bakeline Ltd., Primera bake products now available

By Moses Billacura

Baker Rica Marano with husband Jayson during the Primera "Handmade from Scratch" Bakery launching, Dec.12, at the TFC along Roper Road.

T

wo family-owned business companies, Bakeline Ltd. and Primera, both selling

bakery products, have launched its products to Edmontonians this month.

Bakeline held a taste test last Dec.8 at the 6th Sense Café inside the Mill Woods Town Centre where they will be displaying their products while Primera launched their line of baked goodies on Dec.12 at the TFC along Roper Road.

Winsli Torres and Naomi Laxina are the bakers for Bakeline.

Torres said that they have choices of cookies and cream, cheese and ube for their bread, the kind of bread that is famous is San Fernando, Pampanga where they come from. “Napaka sikat ng cheese bread naming doon, kaya may cheese bread din na tayo ditto sa Edmonton,” said Torres.

Baker Rica Marano of Primera

Kelly McCauley Member of Parliament Edmonton West

My office is available to help constituents navigate through and help resolve issues with federal government departments, programs and services, including:

•Citizenship and Immigration •Service Canada •Canada Pension Plan •Disability Pension Plan •Old Age Security •Employment Insurance •Passports •Canada Revenue Agency •Social Insurance Number (SIN)

hopes that one day Primera will be a household name. “We would strive to be the best, hence the name Primera,” said Marano, whose husband Jayson and their

three children are helping her run their business.

Marano has been a baker for 15 years and decided to put up their own business last summer.

Bakeline Ltd. baker Naomi Laxina (2nd from left) attends to customers during their free tasting event, Dec.8, at the 6th Sense Cafe.

Photos by Moses Billacura | Alberta Filipino Journal

from page 9

Art for Social Change: Viscosity... people who go beyond their comfort zones and continue to push these issues into our awareness. All of us, in whatever capacity, i.e. artists, activists, advocates, can be galvanized into action and heed John F. Kennedy’s words “One person can make a difference, and everyone should try”.

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

Please contact our office if we can assist with any federal department.

5613-199 Street NW Edmonton, Alberta T6M 0M8 780-392-2515 Kelly.McCauley.c1@parl.gc.ca @KellyMcCauleyMP www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

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

DECEMBER 2018

COMMUNITY | POINTS OF VIEW | BUSINESS

Year End Reflections A s 2018 comes to an end, there were many events and highlights to look back on. Perhaps for Filipinos in Alberta, June 2018 was a memorable month.

In June of this year, the Provincial government made the month of June “Philippine Heritage Month” in perpetuity. This means that starting this year, and for every June gpong forward, Filipinos can showcase their heritage and culture. It’s also a big deal because it was also done torecognize the contribution of Filipinos in Alberta. This is a legacy that the community can pass on for generations. The process in making Philippine Heritage month in Alberta also showcased the positives within our community, such as the passion to put our community on the mainstream map, but more importantly it also showed that we can work together and unite for a better good.

For many workers and migrants, this year was also special. This year was the realization of the $15 minimum wage that was promised by the NDP government during the election. The $15 minimum wage was very significant. For workers, this means that they have stronger buying power. It alleviates the stress

of living from paycheck to paycheck.

On the other hand, it also became a precedence for other provinces to give their citizens a just wage.

Contrary to what the other political party was saying, higher minimum wage did not create unemployment.

On the contrary, Statscan released its statistics indicating that the unemployment in the province is 6.7%, the lowest since 1970.

The adjustment of the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) was also significant. Through consultations with stakeholders, the AINP was changed to provide migrants who are already working here and wanted to stay with easier

access to a pathway to permanent residency. The two important changes to the program was to remove the income threshold requirement and to lower the language requirement.

While many more immigrant policy changes are needed, the Federal government must now step up and follow suit.

On September 18, the City of Edmonton passed a motion that makes the City a “Sanctuary City” or “Access without Fear” City. This means that for migrants who lost their status when their permit expired or refugee claimants that were denied their applications, they do not have to be scared about walking the

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streets of Edmonton or accessing municipal services. It may not mean much because significant services such as education and health care are provincially regulated, however this designation showed that there was a need and that Edmontonians can pursue access to services from the Province.

Our community and generally all the residents of Alberta can be joyful for the "gifts" that we received from the Provincial Government this year.

However, many Filipinos also worry about the future of our families back home. At the beginning of the year, the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law was implemented. It created an impact on the take-home pay of Filipinos, prices of goods and services, and spending and consumption. TRAIN will put a lot of pressure on migrant workers and families here in Canada. Many will be pushed to take on another job or take longer working hours to be able to subsidize the expenses of their families back home.

In addition, the government of President Duterte signed the Social Security Act of 2018. It is a bicameral approval of the bill imposing the mandatory SSS for all OFWs. The mandatory SSS membership imposed a monthly contribution rate to go up to 12% or Php 2,400

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per month in 2019. From then on, it is expected to gradually increase reaching 15% by 2025. Prior to this, there was another government bill through POEA called “Governing Board Resolution No.04”. The bill ordered the inclusion of returning OFWs in its compulsory insurance policy costing an added US$144 from the pockets of migrant workers. The bill also allowed private sector to manage the insurance policy thus the Philippine government washing its hands of any responsibilities should something happen to a Filipino migrant worker abroad.

On December 4, President Rodrigo Duterte approved the second round of diesel and gasoline excise tax hikes during the Cabinet meeting. During the meeting, Duterte's economic managers pushed for the hike to be implemented on January 1, 2019.

Aside from economic sues, his war on drugs continues. Many were killed with impunity while no major arrestswere made in terms of drug lords.

With upcoming elections both here and in the Philippines and with the Filipino diaspora, people are anxious and weary about their future both in the Philippines and in Alberta. However these reflections also help them shape their course of actions in the New Year.

Caregiver Forum and Media Event organized by Migrante

Panelist, Whitney Hayes, researcher; Cynthia Palmaria, Exec member of Migrante; Greggy Flores

All photos and articles available online. Follow us

Well attended forum and media event

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POINTS OF VIEW | COMMUNITY | BUSINESS

This Book is For you Chapter 10,11,12 Through a Teenager’s Eyes KRISTIAN CERENO Kristian Cereno is a Grade 9 Student of St. Mark’s Catholic School in Edmonton. His hobbies include writing poems, composing songs, and playing volleyball. In the long run, he hopes to learn to play hockey the Canadian way.

Chapter 10:Game Over What? Why? These questions have been going through my mind for the past few hours. The next day felt like a change. But here I am, confused, broken, torn apart and fallen. Yes, I know that we are not even a couple. I know that I do not even have a deep relationship with you. But it still hurts – to know that

you are now happy with someone.

I thought you were the one for me, but I guess I was wrong; you were not the person for me. Things are not the same anymore. It feels so different now that I know that I have already lost the battle; a battle between me and time. So, is this the price of being a coward? I am so stupid to not know that I really

am. I dwell on two things that I have learned. It may be the right time to start a relationship with someone but you may be falling for the wrong person or perhaps it is the wrong time to start a relationship but the right person may be before you. I do not know which situation I find myself in but what I am sure of is that I loved you, but you never loved me.

Chapter 11: Carry On “Move on.” A phrase that everyone says and what everyone believes in, after a break up. Maybe I should now believe in that too. I should move on and carry on. I need to focus on the things ahead of me and not on what is behind me. I need tofocus on what the future awaits and not on the past that is already behind me. I need to “move on”, to get on with my life – a life without you. I will need to forget about all the things that happened and forget about my feelings for you. I know that it is hard, but it is never impossible. I know that itmay have simply been a “crush” or just a “high

school/teen love”. But still, I loved you. From the way you talk, the way you look at me, the way you laugh and the way you smile. I can never forget that, but I guess I have to. I need to. So I will carry on.

Chapter 12: Start Over What do you do when you lose all your lives in a game? Say for example in a Mario game?

Doesn’t it say, “Game Over”? And when that happens, you have to start over. Maybe love is like a game of Mario. Chances are given, and

DECEMBER 2018 losses are taken. But because of that, we learn. That is why I learned so many things because of this love.

Mistakes have been made and lessons are learned. The definition of the phrase, “move on” is “to progress”.

That is exactly what I should do, to progress. I need to forget about all the things that happened in the past and start over. I will start over with a new life that will make me happy and not make me sad. I will move forward and not look back.

I will start over because the game with you is over.

Philppine Cultural Center Foundation (Calgary)

By Salvador Granado

T

he Philippine Cultural Foundation (PCCF) is a non-profit organization incorporated on March 28,1995 under the Societies Act of Alberta. The primary objective is to acquire a cultural center for the Filipino community in Calgary.

The center is located at 206, 4656 Westwinds Drive NE, Calgary T3J3Z5.

The center is so active that the Filipino communities in Calgary is very much supportive to all the projects that they initiated. The PCCF has a lot of programs for the Filipino community such as Filipino Language and Cultural School, Performing Arts,

Basic Computer Literacy for Seniors, Health and Wellness for Seniors, and lately the center is giving scholarship to young Filipino students who can meet scholarship program critiria.

PCCF SCHOLARSHIP AND SPONSORSHIP RECIPIENTS A.Scholarships: 1. AdielDujali David, !st year, University Of Calgary, Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, $1,000 2. Sergio del Rosario, 1st year, Mount Royal University, Bachelor of Business Administration, $1,000 3. Veyra Pascual, 1st year, University of Calgary, Haskeyne School of Business Administration $1,000 4. Cristina Ramos, 3rdyear,University of Calgary, Bachelor of Music, $1,000 5. Aries Serina Dimaranan, 1st year, University of Calgary, Schulich School of Engineering, Bachelor of Science, $1,000 Sponsorship: 1. Hannah Mae Santa Rita, Jr. High School Gr 8 Encounters with Canada, $300 Aside from the scholarship and sponsorship programs, the center has just formed a choral group and their debut performance was on Dec 8,2018 at the center’s 2018 Christmas party celebration. The choral group is under the direction of Ms Alicia Caine, a graduate of Philippine Women’s University Conservatory of Music.

A professional music teacher with a high level of experience and a zest for sharing her passion for all things musical. She is also determined to

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Choir Directress- Alicia Caine

in group and personal coaching in piano and voice grooming. She has a strong belief that music can change a life for a better.

CHOIR MEMBERS Paulette Campbell. Aura Felipe, Emily Sayson, Giga Sullivan, Judith Frreras, (choir directress) Alicia Caine, Salvador Granado, David Astle, Fred Molina, Mike Sullivan, Clem Tigley.

(Not In Picture) Tess Velasco, CheloGalayAstle, Becky Tigley, Frank Tigley

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

DECEMBER 2018

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BUSINESS | TRAVEL AGENCY

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COMMUNITY | ENTERTAINMENT | BUSINESS

DECEMBER 2018

DENIES OVERSOLD TICKETS

Jose Mari Chan concert organizer apologizes to ticket holders

By Moses Billacura

O

rganizers of the Jose Mari Chan concert apologized to ticket holders and promised a refund after they were flooded with complaints last December 8.

“We sincerely and unreservedly apologize for the mix-up that resulted in frustration and disappointment for those who wanted to see the show but could not,” said Chie Febra of the organizing SGF Travel and Tours posted on her Facebook account, Sarahgoching Febra on December 9, 9:41 a.m.

She added that they will “continue to investigate what lead to this unexpected and unfortunate situation, and will issue refunds for those who received refund authorization at the door”.

When asked by the Journal if there were more than 800 tickets sold, in a text message, Febra clarified

Journal columnist Riana Torrejon sings a duet with Jose Mari Chan, December 8, at the Royal Palace in Edmonton.

Photos by Moses Billacura | Alberta Filipino Journal

Ticket holders could not find a seat and remained standing at the Jose Mari Chan concert, December 8, at the Royal Palace in Edmonton.

that they have “800 people confirmed kasama na ang allowance dyan in case may darating pa”.

“But that night and daming dumating pa na walang tickets naka bumili lang sa entrance at maraming naka lusot na kung saan ang may

mga tickets nawalan ng upuan. Ang mga General Admission inupuan ang VIP tables, pag pinaalis nagagalit sila,” Febra said.

Carlo Cachuela posted by replying to the organizer’s post stating “Do not produce events like this if you

don’t know how. It is now always all about the money! The $80 that we are now asking for a refund wouldn’t pay for the time wasted, efforts inserted and the excitement to see the show”.

“Pinagmukha mong PIPITSUGIN ang mga Pilipino,” Cachuela said.

Lixmilla Serrano, an event sponsor, booked for two tables only to find out their tables were “taken by two groups”.

Tony Surtida, a concert organizer himself, stated on his Facebook page that they “showed up all decked out for the Jose Mari Chan concert.

After lining up for who knows how

long (the line didn’t move all that time!), we were told that they were no longer letting people in”.

A Filipino business association member, who requested anonymity, said that the incident also embarrassed members of the Filipino business community in Edmonton and will be holding a meeting to draw up a plan on how to help prevent another unfortunate incident.

The organizer, SGF Travel and Tours on its FB page, is a Canadianbased full-service travel agency with contact number (902)7891410 that is based in Nova Scotia Province.

Ryan `Gold’ Gento writes and sings Original Pilipino Music

By Moses Billacura

S

amar-native Ryan “Gold” Gento started composing Original Pilipino Music (OPM) in 2008 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia where he worked as an auto mechanic.

Then when he found help from

Israel Allen Pascua who did the music arrangements, he started posting it on his Facebook and YouTube accounts under “Ryan Gold”.

“Homesick ako noon, kaya sabi ko, subukan ko kayang gumawa ng songs,” said Gento, who first composed “Nandito Lang Ako”.

He has 13 other songs.

Six years later in Edmonton, Gento’s work was discovered by a friend, Mark Peralta, a photographer, who later on introduced him to Wefix Auto’s Chris Ayson and Laarni Lising.

“We just want to support him and let everybody know na mayroon tayong OPM artist dito sa Edmonton,” said Lising who introduced Gento , December 6, at the Manila Grill Restaurant.

Gento said he will keep on writing songs if he is off from full-time work as an auto mechanic or part-time work as a cook.

OPM composer and singer Ryan "Gold" Gento performs at the Manila Grill Restaurant, Dec.6.

(Photo by Moses Billacura)

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

DECEMBER 2018

POINTS OF VIEW | IMMIGRATION CONSULTANCY SERVICES

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On Government Budgets and Being Informed

T

he City of Edmonton just released its proposed budget, which resulted in a flurry of news articles, people organizing, and online commentary from engaged citizens from all walks of life.

Marijuana just became legal which has budgetary and tax implications from the government’s perspective.

And phase two of the Public Transit Bus Network Re-design is about to collect public feedback.

There are many numbers that are being thrown around, from percentages, to how much rates are multiplied, millions and billions of dollars, which funds are restricted and flexible, which ones have other considerations. Sometimes I have a knee-jerk reaction to convert these amounts to Philippine Pesos, while forgetting that fixing roads in Canada thanks to our weather is probably a different process compared to fixing roads in the Philippines.

Getting politically active is still such a foreign concept to me.

There is still a part of me that feels disconnected given that I lived my first sixteen years in the Philippines. It’s important to remind myself – repeatedly – that none of these councillors, trustees, mayors, MLAs and MPs are getting into severe harm or death by having debates in their office chambers and sharing unpopular opinions.

As a millennial, there are enough stereotypes thrown in against me already. Then there’s some local long-time sentiment that I hear which is, “no one give a darn about municipal politics”.

I feel grateful of all the opportunities to learn more, from websites, politicians sharing their views, journalists writing comprehensive articles, to dedicated community members sharing their voices and frustrations. I feel compelled to take it all in and share my two cents. In doing so, I keep meeting people that seem to be keen on sharing what little free time they have, to express how a policy or budget decision can impact them and people they care about.

While it doesn’t feel that way, compared to other places I have lived, it is easier and accessible to do here. From interactive web pages, videos, infographics and more, posters on the buses and online ads, there are multitude of opportunities to share feedback.

A number of elected officials are quite responsive on social media, perhaps because a comment or a question left ignored is not a good view for such a public space.

With the help of a few other people in the city, many of which I never met before, I spoke in front of City Council during a public hearing about how city services impact me and the people around me. My plea is for them to remember the importance of these services as they make decisions and have debates on how the four-year municipal budget is supposed to look like.

The volume of information is quite overwhelming sometimes. You don’t know what you don’t know.

GENERAL POINT OF VIEW GISELLE GENERAL

gqgeneral@gmail.com

Giselle General came from the cold, mountainous region on the Benguet province, and immigrated to Canada as a teenager in 2007. After completing her Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Alberta, she now dedicates her business training to the nonprofit sector, both in employed and volunteer capacities. 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, General Point of View, and has recently published a book of her poems and artwork titled The Humanity of Me.

History and context such as decisions that previous elected representatives have made, any inter-regional partnerships or lack of, and how the municipal, provincial and federal governments work together, need

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to be considered. During dinners with my in-laws or friend who grew up here, their stories of how certain programs worked, or the behaviour of certain memorable politicians are quite interesting.

It is worth remembering that their stories are sometimes viewed with rose-coloured glasses, but that in itself is valuable context. I try not to shy away from reading social media comments on news articles, because it feels like the equivalent of ‘putting your head in the sand’ and that’s not a good way to help our community.

While I will be enjoying the Christmas season in the Philippines when the finalized budget decisions are made, the impact will cascade for many months and years. And with this in mind, I shall try my best to continue getting informed, vocal, engaged and connected regarding political matters.

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COMMUNITY | GREETINGS

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

DECEMBER 2018

Great Smile Christmas Party

B

ringing the bountiful blessings to the community is the external manifestation of benevolent love or charity. This fulfills the Messianic mission of the infant Jesus. Dr. Rod Montano, wife Jencet, and family have been known to witnessing and returning the blessings through their good intentions and deeds. They believe that a prayer without action is dead.

The Great Smile Dental Clinic wishes to greet everyone a Happy Holidays!

Doctor Rod Montano’s beloved wife Jencet Montano enjoys her gown while celebrating her natal day on the 18th of December 2018. Friends like Resty and Teri Reyes, Lydia Jimenez, Jun and Hermie Angeles and the rest of her friends are extending happiest birthday greetings to the celebrant.

Long life and happiness be with you Jencet!

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DECEMBER 2018

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BUSINESS

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GREETINGS

DECEMBER 2018

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

Perry Diaz, Januel Ibasco, Fr. Jhack Diaz, and Riana Torrejon. To all our contributing writers not mentioned, I cannot thank you enough for a job well done. I also wish to thank our photographers, Dario Juanillo and Noli Granado, Mark Destacamento our sales and advertising ( Business Manager).

From the Desk of the Publisher The year is ended with flying colours. But this time, we have successfully managed to be on the positive side despite the gloom and doom of the economy in Alberta. Thank you Lord for guiding us along the way, to continue our mission to serve the community by giving them unbiased news and reports, educational and entertaining columns and public announcements vital to the ever growing FILIPINO community.

Thank you to our advertisers who continue to support this paper to reach out to the Filipino community. Without you, the publication of this paper won’t be possible.

Further, this paper would not exist if not for the inspiration of Rosalinda Linsangan NatividadCantiveros of Winnipeg, who engaged her entire life in service to the Filipino community and to Rod and Ron Cantiveros, my mentors.

To Lito Velasco our Editor-in-Chief, Melanie Angeles, our office administrator and manager, Lianne Angeles, our proofreader, Melanie (Lanie) Gomez our website and graphic designer, our journalists and columnists Mo Billacura and Nicky Gocuan, our new correspondent from Calgary, Salvador Granado, our regular columnists and contributors Ida Beltran-Lucila, Marjorie CarmonaNewman, Tito S. Venida, the Cereno Family, Mervin, Katrina and Kristian, Marco Luciano, Giselle General, Rosalyn Estoque,

To my sons Michael and Mark Angeles, for the timely delivery of this paper month after month and lastly, to my wife Hermie for supporting me in these endeavours.

Let me wish EVERYONE, a Blessed Christmas and a Joyous New Year.

To God Be the Glory

Alberta Filipino Journal’s Christmas Party

Merry Christmas from the Alberta Filipino Journal and family to the readers in Alberta Province.

The Journal hosted a Christmas lunch at the Yang Ming Buffet, December 16, 2018.

Photos by Moses Billacura | Alberta Filipino Journal All photos and articles available online. Follow us

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COMMUNITY | GREETINGS

DECEMBER 2018

FreeDX, Radyo Trenta celebrate Christmas party at Palabok House

By Moses Billacura

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embers of the Filipino Radio Enthusiasts of Edmonton (FreeDX Canada) and Radyo Trenta of Alberta Association 2000 Series celebrated their Christmas party, December 1, at the Palabok House in Edmonton.

FreeDX president Dodong Restauro and officers treated their guests with raffle prizes courtesy of their sponsors and the evening of celebration was enjoyed by everyone with guest singers performing and later on dancing.

Restauro said that last year, Edmonton hosted the convention of the Radio Enthusiasts and they are looking forward to attending another gathering next year.

Photos By Moses Billacura | Alberta Filipino Journal

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DECEMBER 2018

IMMIGRATION CONSULTANCY SERVICES | GREETINGS

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Proof of Funds for Express Entry Applications

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n old friend asked me about proof of funds for Express Entry applications. Her niece received an Invitation to apply under the Federal Skilled Worker Category. An agency in the Philippines is representing her niece in her application for permanent residence. The agency required her niece to provide $40,000 as proof of funds. She only has $20,000 and has real estate and small assets. The question is: Can she use her assets and real estate as proof of funds?

To answer her question, let us review the legislative (Immigration, Refugee and Protection Act) and regulatory (Immigration, Refugee and Protection Regulations) provisions that make proof of funds a requirement. s.12 of the IRPA states that: (2) A foreign national may be selected as a member of the economic class on the basis of their ability to become economically established in Canada.

Provisions in Part 6 of IRPR then create the different economic classes.

Federal Skilled Workers The Federal Skilled Worker Class is created by s.75 of IRPR: (1) For the purposes of subsection 12(2) of the Act, the federal skilled worker class is hereby prescribed as a class of persons who are skilled workers and who may become permanent residents on the basis of their ability to become economically established in Canada and who intend to reside in a province other than the Province of Quebec.

What does the ability to become economically established in Canada mean exactly? This is elaborated on in s.76 of IRPR: (1) For the purpose of determining whether

From Migration to Immigration

one half of the minimum necessary income applicable in respect of the group of persons consisting of the skilled trades worker and their family members[emphasis added].

MARJORIE CARMONA NEWMAN

Canadian Experience Class The Canadian Experience Class is created by s.87.1 of IRPR: (1) For the purposes of subsection 12(2) of the Act, the Canadian experience class is prescribed as a class of persons who may become permanent residents on the basis of their ability to become economically established in Canada, their experience in Canada, and their intention to reside in a province other than the Province of Quebec[emphasis added].

info@mcncanadaimmigration.com 780-758-2045

Marjorie Carmona Newman is a REGULATED CANADIAN IMMIGRATION CONSULTANT based in Edmonton, Alberta. She previously served as Prairie Chapter representative for the Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC) in the Governance and Nomination Committee and Education Director. Marjorie is a three-year recipient of CAPIC's Service Award.

a skilled worker, as a member of the federal skilled worker class, will be able to become economically established in Canada, they must be assessed on the basis of the following criteria: […] (b) the skilled worker must (i) have in the form of transferable and available funds, unencumbered by debts or other obligations, an amount equal to one half of the minimum necessary income applicable in respect of the group of persons consisting of the skilled worker and their family members, or (ii) be awarded points under paragraph 82(2)(a), (b) or (d) for arranged employment, as defined in subsection 82(1), in Canada [emphasis added].

Federal Skilled Trades The Federal Skilled Trade Class is created by s.87.2 of IRPR: (2) For the purposes of subsection 12(2) of the Act, the federal skilled trades class is prescribed as a class of persons who are skilled trades workers and who may become permanent residents on the basis of their ability to become economically established in Canada in a skilled trade occupation and their intention to reside in a province other than the Province of Quebec [emphasis added].

In order to eligible for the Federal Skilled Trades class, a foreign national must also meet the following requirement in s.87.2:

To briefly summarize, a Federal Skilled Worker can demonstrate their ability to become economically established in Canada by showing proof of funds or by showing arranged employment.

It is worth noting that arranged employment has a specific definition in IRPR (see s.82).

(5) With the exception of the foreign nationals referred to in subparagraphs (3)(d)(ii), (iii) and (v) [which refer to foreign nationals with certain offers of employment], the foreign national must have, in the form of transferable and available funds, unencumbered by debts or other obligations, an amount equal to

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Even though the Canadian Experience Class contains the same requirement of demonstrating an ability to become economically established, it is not a requirement to demonstrate the availability of funds or an offer of employment, presumably because they are already economically established by virtue of having lived and worked in Canada.

Proof of Funds The above regulatory provisions refer to “transferable and available funds, unencumbered by debts or other obligations”. On its face, this would appear to rule out the assets that you refer to in your question (e.g. real estate, shares, and valuable personal effects). Further guidance is provided by IRCC on its web page “Proof of funds – Skilled immigrants (Express Entry)”:[1] Funds must be readily available to you. For example, you can't use

equity on real property as proof of settlement funds.

The funds must be available both when you apply and when (if) we issue you a permanent resident visa. You must prove to an immigration officer that you can legally access them to use to settle here when you arrive.

For proof, you must get official letters from any banks or financial institutions where you are keeping money (2) A foreign national may be selected as a member of the economic class on the basis of their ability to become economically established in Canada [emphasis added].

Provisions in Part 6 of IRPR then create the different economic classes.

Federal Skilled Workers The Federal Skilled Worker Class is created by s.75 of IRPR: (1) For the purposes of subsection 12(2) of the Act, the federal skilled worker class is hereby prescribed as a class of persons who are skilled workers and who may become permanent residents on the basis of their ability to become economically established in Canada and who intend to reside in a province other than the Province of Quebec[emphasis added].

What does the ability to become economically established in Canada continued on page 28 ►

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

RADYO SA DYARYO: Magkatulong Sa Pamamahayag At Pag-Aliw Sa Lipunang Pilipino

MEDIA PARTNERS | COMMUNITY Sinasaliwan ng musikang sariling atin ang pagtatagni-tagni ng mga balitang pang-masa, pagbalangkas sa mga makabuluhang dagdag kaalaman, at makatarungang pagpuna sa mga kamalian.

DECEMBER 2018

Honda Wheaton supports `Simbang Gabi'

Ang Tahanan ng OPM-Himig Pinoy-101.7 World FM ay masusubaybayan mula Lunes hanggang Biyernes, 5-6 PM. Samantala, naabot na rin ng Alberta Filipino Journal ang 94.7 FM-Tala luv’z Radio sa Calgary upang makatuwang na rin sa magkaparehong adhikain.

Mapapakinggan tuwing Huwebes sa ganap na ika-pito hanggang ikawalo ng gabi.

Resty Reyes, DJ Mia, Linda Magno-1970’s Filipina Singer-Actress, John-Linda’s husband, and DJ Rolan

DJ Mia, Ryan Gold, DJ Rolan

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Bukas-palad ang Alberta Filipino Journal sa pagtataguyod ng panlipunang pagtututungan upang isaayos ang relasyon ng bawat-isa dito sa bansang ating dinayuhan.

Ian Lizada - Winner of Larawan movie ticket

Meet your Filipino staff at the Honda Wheaton along 34 Avenue, (left-right) Bernard Osana, Dave Miranda, Armilyn de Chavez, Marc Lusaya, John Victoria, Andre Agtarap, Carl Castro and Nemen Syd Rosanes. Honda Wheaton is one of the backers of the Simbang Gabi on Dec.20, 7:30 p.m., at the St.Theresa Parish hosted by 101.7 World FM-Himig Pinoy, Philippine Sport Association, Fly Friendly Travel and Tours and Alberta Filipino Journal.(Photo by Moses Billacura)

Resty Reyes of Fly Friendly Travel and Tours with Honda Wheaton crew Dave Miranda and two others, Dec.12. Reyes facilitated the backing of Honda Wheaton for the Simbang Gabi on Dec.20, 7:30 p.m., at the St.Theresa Parish to be hosted by 101.7 World FMHimig Pinoy, Philippine Sport Association, Fly Friendly Travel and Tours and Alberta Filipino Journal.

Photo by Moses Billacura | Alberta Filipino Journal

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

GREETINGS

DECEMBER 2018

O

25

Elias Pingol Turns One

Aaron is Eleven

ne plus one is equal to eleven. This summation can never be accepted and valid in the realm of mathematics; yet, idiomatically permissible in the name of life’s comedy. He’s well known through his sense of humor.

His Sister Arielle has composed a birthday message for him: “Happy birthday @asian__hotpot even

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Congratulations to the proud parents of Elias Pingol as they celebrate their son's first birthday. Elias is the recent godson of Patrick and Lydia Llauder of Edmonton. Sending all our love and affection for this memorable occasion! Happy first birthday, Elias!

though you are now 11 doesn’t mean I don’t treat you the same way you are still going to be my little annoying brother but also the most caring and handsome sibling I will ever have. Thank you for being there for me when I have no one else to talk to. You’re always there to tell me when I do dumb things.

I know, I act like I am the younger

one sometimes. But you still able to manage my immatureness. We do fight a lot but in the end we still love each other. I am so grateful to have a brother like you and I would never want anything to replace you. I love you and I wish you the best happy birthday ever.

Love, Ate Arielle”

Simple and Beautiful inside-out!

B

orn on the 17th of December, Aimee Symington has been very tough in facing life with equanimity.

Looking forward to a better future is her cup of tea. Takes the challenges as her source of force to proceed with the present that will lead her into the future. Never looks around to determine those who are not favourably contributing on her wish lists. Calculates but tend to shun being presumptuous.

Finds the meaning and fulfillment of life with her daughter and family as well. A blessed natal day Aimee!

Celebrating Life amidst Family and the Next of Kin Marianne Cereno-Minano celebrates her birthday last December 8, 2018. She was lavisly showered with love and compassion by her family members and friends. Happy Life’s Celebration!

Princess Seryna has turned 7

Photo by Noli Granado | Alberta Filipino Journal

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

POINTS OF VIEW | GREETINGS | COMMUNITY

Filipinavigation RIANA TORREJON torrejonriana@gmail.com Riana Torrejon is a twelfth-grade student who is a passionate advocate for human rights.

In her spare time, she loves to write and sing. She also runs her school’s Student Council, chairs for ECSD’s Student Senate, and is an actress for Emma the Musical. Martin Luther King, Jr. is one of her greatest inspirations.

Pledge to Love

L

ately, I have been roaming the streets of Edmonton, haunted by the same question I believe many of us are worried about: what can I give to others—especially my loved ones—this Christmas?

This question was answered for me by a fact I came upon. Recently, I’ve learned that scientists believe that factors like one’s mood, feelings, and even one’s memories may affect their perception of colours. So, two people could be staring at the same sunset, have the same wavelengths

reach their eyes, but “see” different colours.

With that in mind, this led me to reflect on how differently each and every one of us perceives and experiences the world.

We roam the same earth, but it’s a different earth for everyone.

My blue is not your blue. My day wasn’t like yours.

Moving forward, we must remember this as a gift to one another.

Many times, we forget to love one another as we’d like to be loved ourselves. We instinctually fall back to only considering ourselves and our perception.

But, when you love someone, you have to think about them too. You must place yourself in their shoes and strive to infuse understanding, patience, and kindness in your daily responses to others.

Admittedly, I have found that it’s often difficult to remember how complex everyone’s lives are as I encounter and brush past people every day, especially during my weekday school routine.

However, during this season of giving, I pledge to give others the gift of love by taking the time to consider others while I make my day-to-day decisions, and I urge you to do the same. I have found that moments’ decisions add up to years of results, so never underestimate your impact on this world.

To finish, I would like to leave you all with a quote from one of my favourite wise men, Martin Luther King Jr. "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that." - Martin Luther King, Jr. "Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into friend."

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DECEMBER 2018

Jacky Rocha turns 18

By Moses Billacura

J

acky Rocha celebrated her 18th birthday last Nov.24 in the company of her family and friends.

Jun Rocha, the father, said Jacky is their youngest daughter who was born in Canada after they immigrated in 1999. She currently is studying at the University of Alberta.

He said that he hopes that Jacky will be successful in her studies, establish a great career and be able to contribute to the progress of Canada as a citizen.

“We all want the best for our children,” said Jun, a golf tournament organizer during his break from work.

Photos By Moses Billacura | Alberta Filipino Journal

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

DECEMBER 2018 COMMUNITY | VOLUNTEERISM | PHILIPPINE CONSULAR SERVICES | BUSINESS

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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PCG Calgary Promotes Education Cooperation between the Philippines and Alberta, Canada

PBSA: Philanthropic Mission at Hope Mission December 16, 2018. The Philippine Business Society of Alberta, being supported by the volunteers from different Filipino Organizations as well as Business Sectors, spearheaded by its very own president Celso Andrade has meritoriously served 476 guests at the Hope Mission in Edmonton. This kind of unselfish endeavour is alligned with the values of ech member; that is, to perpetuate the numbers of the service-oriented businessmen in the light of volunteerism. Especially during the Holy Season.

Deputy Consul General Zaldy Patron (right) with Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairman Prospero De Vera III (center) and UPLB Dean of Graduate School Jose Camacho, Jr. after the briefing on 19 November 2018.

21 November 2018, Calgary – The Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Calgary has taken steps to promote education cooperation between the Philippines and the Province of Alberta in Canada.

Deputy Consul General Zaldy Patron, representing Consul General Gilberto Asuque, travelled to Manila on 19 November to meet with the officials of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the University of the Philippines (UP) and briefed them on the opportunities for academic and research partnerships with the two leading universities in Alberta – the University of Alberta and the University of Calgary.

Among those that DCG Patron briefed were CHED Chairman Prospero

De Vera III, CHED Commissioner Ronald Aldamat, UPLB Dean of Graduate School Jose Camacho, Jr., UP Office of International Linkages (OIL) Director Dr. Gil Jacinto, OIL Assistant Director Dr. Aaron Joseph Villaraza, and OILDiliman Dr. Imee Su Sanchez.

The CHED and UP officials described the presentation of DCG patron as both “good news “and timely as they were made aware of the strengths of the two Alberta-based universities that have consistently ranked as among the top universities in Canada and in the world. CHED and UP have also been advocating for more internalization programs with foreign universities and they would welcome collaboration with Canadian universities

(L-R) UP Office of International Linkages (OIL) Assistant Director Dr. Aaron, Deputy Consul General Zaldy Patron, CHED Commissioner Ronald Aldamat, UP OIL Director Dr. Gil Jacinto, OIL-UP Diliman Dr. Imee Su Sanchez and UPLB Dean of Graduate School Jose Camacho, Jr. after the briefing given by DCG Patron on 19 November in CHED Office

In September and October of this year, Consul General Asuque and DCG Patron held a series of meetings with the high officials of the University of Calgary and the University of Alberta to explore their interest in having possible cooperation with selected Philippine universities.

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL IMMIGRATION CONSULTANCY SERVICES | PHILIPPINE CONSULAR SERVICES | BUSINESS DECEMBER 2018

from page 23

Proof of Funds for ... mean exactly? This is elaborated on in s.76 of IRPR: (1) For the purpose of determining whether a skilled worker, as a member of the federal skilled worker class, will be able to become economically established in Canada, they must be assessed on the basis of the following criteria: […] (b) the skilled worker must (i) have in the form of transferable and available funds, unencumbered by debts or other obligations, an amount equal to one half of the minimum necessary income applicable in respect of the group of persons consisting of the skilled worker and their family members, or (ii) be awarded points under paragraph 82(2)(a), (b) or (d) for arranged employment, as defined in subsection 82(1), in Canada [emphasis added].

To briefly summarize, a Federal Skilled Worker can demonstrate their ability to become economically established in Canada by showing proof of funds or by showing arranged employment.

It is worth noting that arranged employment has a specific definition in IRPR (see s.82).

Federal Skilled Trades The Federal Skilled Trade Class is created by s.87.2 of IRPR: (2) For the purposes of subsection 12(2) of the Act, the federal skilled trades class is prescribed as a class of persons who are skilled trades workers and who may become permanent residents on the basis of their ability to become economically established in Canada in a skilled trade occupation and their intention to reside in a province other than the Province of Quebec [emphasis added].

In order to eligible for the Federal

Skilled Trades class, a foreign national must also meet the following requirement in s.87.2: (5) With the exception of the foreign nationals referred to in subparagraphs (3)(d)(ii), (iii) and (v) [which refer to foreign nationals with certain offers of employment], the foreign national must have, in the form of transferable and available funds, unencumbered by debts or other obligations, an amount equal to one half of the minimum necessary income applicable in respect of the group of persons consisting of the skilled trades worker and their family members[emphasis added].

Canadian Experience Class The Canadian Experience Class is created by s.87.1 of IRPR: (1) For the purposes of subsection 12(2) of the Act, the Canadian experience class is prescribed as a class of persons who may become permanent residents on the basis of their ability to become economically established in Canada, their experience in Canada, and their intention to reside in a province other than the Province of Quebec[emphasis added].

Even though the Canadian Experience Class contains the same requirement of demonstrating an ability to become economically established, it is not a requirement to demonstrate the availability of funds or an offer of employment, presumably because they are already economically established by virtue of having lived and worked in Canada.

Proof of Funds The above regulatory provisions refer to “transferable and available funds, unencumbered by debts or other obligations”. On its face, this would appear to rule out the assets that you refer to in your question (e.g. real estate, shares, and valuable personal effects). Further guidance

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is provided by IRCC on its web page “Proof of funds – Skilled immigrants (Express Entry)”:[1] Funds must be readily available to you. For example, you can't use equity on real property as proof of settlement funds.

The funds must be available both when you apply and when (if) we issue you a permanent resident visa. You must prove to an immigration officer that you can legally access them to use to settle here when you arrive.

For proof, you must get official letters from any banks or financial institutions where you are keeping money.

If she is unable to produce $40,000, why not sell some of the assets or the real estate in order to come up with the $40,000 transferable and available funds.

It is only then that she would be able to prove the amount that was indicated in her application.

PCG Calgary Brings Consular Services to Filipinos in Faraway Fort McMurray

18 November, Calgary – The 10-member team from the Philippine Consulate General in Calgary, led by Consul General Gilberto Asuque, conducted a consular outreach in faraway Fort McMurray, Alberta, Canada on 17 and 18 November 2018.

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

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 an immigration lawyer or a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant in good standing of ICCRC. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of the lawyers or immigration consultants.

The consular team served 466 Filipinos and other clients in Fort McMurray and nearby areas during the 2-day outreach for passport applications, notarial services, civil registrations, NBI applications, dual citizen applications, oath taking for reacquisition of Philippine citizenship, legal inquiries, and SSS service.

Fort McMurray is located in northeast Alberta, in the middle of the Athabasca oil sands, and has played

a significant role in the development of the national petroleum industry.

Some 5,000 to 6,000 Filipinos live and work in Fort McMurray.

The distance from Calgary is the main reason for the Consulate General to conduct the outreach mission for Filipinos and other clients in Fort McMurray. It takes about 7 to 8 hours of driving at 112 kilometers per hour for Filipinos from McMurray to travel the distance of 755.31 kilometers to Calgary for consular services.

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

EDUCATION | GREETINGS

DECEMBER 2018

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

29

Your World Education Services Evaluation states that Your Philippines’ Engineering Degree is Equivalent only to 3 Years Diploma in Canada, what is the next step?

FROM A DREAM INTO A BEAM MERVIN MENDOZA CERENO mmcereno@gmail.com

Mervin Cerenois a Filipino Engineer, Academician and Entrepreneur who chose to migrate to Canada. He is working on his research to complete his Master’s Degree from the University of Alberta. Presently, he is working on his Canadian Professional Experience to eventually earn his Professional Engineering Status in the Province of Alberta.

For more advice on specific case in pursuing your application – please contact me at cereno@ ualberta.ca or mmcereno@gmail.com

I

n the past issues of the Alberta Filipino Journal, I discussed ways and procedures on how to be a Professional Engineer in Canada as Internationally Educated Engineers.

I will say that the roadmap to your licensure in Canada is not easy but it is worth it when you eventually gain it. Many Filipino Engineers are aware of these procedures and some of these Filipino Engineers may have been able to start their applications but eventually halted the process when they eventually received the World Education Services (WES) Education evaluation.

Part of the procedure of application

is your education credential evaluation, which aims to confirm that your Philippines’ academic degree is equivalent in length and in content with the Canadian Education System in Engineering. Sad to say, if you are a graduate of the “not so popular” Tertiary Institutions in the Philippines, your 5 years of hardwork for your Engineering Degree is only equivalent to 3 years of a Community College Diploma (or worse, 2 years) in Canada.

Many Filipino Engineers who received this Credential Evaluation from WES tend to stop and eventually not continue their application process.

The 3-year Community College

Diploma equivalency decision of the WES will mean the following: a. You cannot continue to apply as “Engineer” because you are not an Engineer, and b. The community college diploma equivalency of your education from the Philippines is tantamount to vocational course you took as equivalent to TESDA offered courses.

This is a sad fact that the Engineering Education in the Philippines is not directly recognized in the Canadian Education system for Licensure to Practice the Profession.

There are some exceptions to this, some of which is that you graduated from a prestigious University in the Philippines or have made exerted efforts to become recognized abroad through the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) and the Washington Accord for which the Philippines is a Provisional Signatory.

Now, what are your next steps if you received this “not so good” evaluation of your Engineering Education?

1. The APEGA will give you a chance to challenge several technical exams. These technical exams cover

your Basic Engineering Subjects of Engineering Mechanics, Strength of Materials, Fluid Mechanics, etc. There are costs associated to each exam and you need to pass a minimum of 5 subjects. This will also depend on the instruction to be given by APEGA. 2. After passing a majority of your Technical Exams, you have to take the Fundamentals of Engineering Exams offered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) – you need to pass this.

3. You can enroll inUniversity courses that relate to the lacking subjects as recommended by the Board of Examiners of APEGA. This will be at a Bachelor Level either at the University of Alberta, University of Calgary, NAIT or SAIT. You need to be accepted as a student in these

schools and need to pass the courses as a regular student.

4. You can continue your application NOT as Engineer but as Technologist through the ASET. If you decide to challenge the exams, the timetable is about 2 years but it will also depend on how eager you are to complete the exams. Each Technical Exam costs about $350 Canadian.

The challenge for everyone of us is how to come back to our table and study those subjects we have studied several years ago. As part of the Filipino community in Canada who sees and experiencesthe challenges of each Filipino, I want to remind you that we sometimes neglect the most important part of us, and that is the importance of our vocation to be whatever we want to be.

As an academic, I am hungry to share my knowledge. I am in the process of setting up online review for Engineering, where “busy” people can sit at their working table and study at their convenience. This is my way of following my vocation.

Stay tuned and continue to follow us in the Alberta Filipino Journal.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Jason Kenney Leader of the United Conservative Party United Conservative Party Caucus Edmonton Federal Building 5th Floor, 9820 107 Street Edmonton, AB T5K 1E7

780.644.2297 ucpcaucus@assembly.ab.ca ucpcaucus.ca

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

RELIGION | BUSINESS

DECEMBER 2018

The Joy That Was Set Before Him!

The Shame He Despised; The Cross He Endured.

From a Vantage Point TITO S.VENIDA

Tito S. Venida is a product of the University of the Philippines. He used to be a studentleader 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.

OUR SCRIPTURE TEXT "Looking unto Jesus the Author and Finisher of our faith; Who for the joy that set before Him endured the Cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the Throne of God." Hebrews 12:2 KJV INTRODUCTION Many times we use clichĂŠs in preaching such as "Trust Jesus." But that particular phrase or arrangement of these two words is not found in Scripture. However many times we are told to trust the Lord and the Bible tells us that Jesus is the Lord. Let us look in the Scripture: Psalm 18:2KJV: "The LORD is

my Rock, and my Fortress, and my Deliverer; my God, my Strength, in Whom I will trust; my Buckler, and the Horn of my Salvation, and my High Tower."

Psalm 18:30 KJV: "As for God, His Way is perfect: the Word of the LORD is tried: He is a Buckler to all those that trust in Him." Psalm 118:8 KJV: "It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man."

Proverbs 28:25 KJV: "He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the LORD shall be made fat."

Isaiah 26:4 KJV: "Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD

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JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:" 1 Timothy 4:10 KJV: "For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe."

The Bible tells to "believe" in Jesus Christ that a person be saved.

The word means to have faith, and to put one's trust in Jesus Christ, which means making a commitment to Him. There is no such thing in the Bible as saving faith without a commitment.

That commitment is the result of salvation and means to faithfully follow the Lord Jesus.

The phrase "trust in Jesus" has many applications in our lives. We put our trust in the Lord in many ways.

There is another phrase often used that is found in God's Word. It is instruction that also convenes a powerful and live changing message.

That phrase is found in Hebrews 12:1-3 KJV and it is the action of belief and trust in Jesus Christ.

1 "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against

himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds."

That phrase is "Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith."The statement's context is important to understanding its full meaning. The statement follows Hebrews 11 which is the Bible's "Hall of Faith."

Here are examples from history of men God greatly used who lived by faith in challenging times and were called upon by God to carry out difficult tasks.

The one thing common to these men and women was their faith in God. They believed Him, accepted His words as truth, realized that it was God their Creator who called them to salvation and service and therefore they put their trust in God and obeyed Him. Obeying Him simply means they accepted His will and purpose for their lives.

These faithful men and women were not perfect, and were the same as you and I. They had the same carnal nature, the same desires, the same lusts, the same pride and fallacies you and I are subject too. Yet they were victorious in accomplishing God's will for their lives and are at the moment enjoying in Heaven the presence of the Lord and the blessings of Heaven.

There are three things we all need to do if we are to look unto

Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith. They are: 1. We must stop PRETENDING; 2. We must stop MAKING EXCUSES; and 3. We must stop JUDGING others.

WE MUST STOP PRETENDING! "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, Hypocrites! For you devour widows' houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation."

Matthew 23:24 KJV 1. It is a common thing among hypocritesto abuse the pretence of zeal when in reality they are exercising covetousness and extortion.

2. Literally, under a color of long praying signifies a double wickedness in them: the one, that they devoured widows' goods; the other that they did it under a pretence of godliness.

WE MUST STOP MAKING EXCUSES! 18 "And they all with one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto Him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs to go and see it; I pray Thee have me excused.

19 And another said, I have bought five yokes of oxen, and I go to prove them: I pray Thee have me excused. continued on page 32 â–ş

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DECEMBER 2018

OPINION | COMMUNITY | EVENT

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Missing Coins in the Year of the Bounty By: Nieves Catahan Villamin From: Bittermelons and Mimosas, a Philippine memoir

R

ice fields that year flaunted rice stalks that were superior to the previous ones. On the riverbanks rays of sunlight shimmered through the dewdrops nestling on the vines of the wild makahiya plants. As the colder autumn air moved over the warmer water in the nearby river, it gave the appearance of steam rising out of the water. When this happened, we knew that Christmas was just around the corner. What an extraordinary way to celebrate Christmas with our granaries overflowing with palay grains!

It was a few days before Christmas of the same year. My best friend Naty and I had just finished gathering firewood from the nearby woodland and getting ready to head home. We had to cross back a tree-lined never-ending brook, which at that time of the year had almost dried up.

During the rainy seasons, the brook becomes a giant fishpond where native fishes from upstream get trapped. Like the tree branches, bamboo stumps, and bushes downed by the previous typhoons and became the firewood that cooked our food; the brook provided a means of life to the barrio people On our way home with Naty following behind, she asked me a question.

“Are you hanging a sock on your banggerahan tonight?

Trying not to step on a carabao dung while crossing the still muddy brook with a bilao full of firewood on top of our heads was like a magician performing his balancing act. If the magician missed the trick, it could mean a disaster. Naty’s strange question made me missed a step. Darn! My right foot stepped on the still squashy dung!

“What for?” I hissed under my breath as I rubbed the dirt off my right foot onto the ground. I was very annoyed.

Her question picked my curiosity. After getting rid of the dung from my right foot I turned around and faced her. The bilao filled of firewood still crowned on my head.

“Sus! So Santa Claus can put coins a Christmas present inside like he did mine last year. I can’t believe you! An honor student who didn’t know about Santa Claus!”

I detected the sarcasm in her voice as if she were telling me, “I am smarter than you are.” Maybe she was. I had never heard about Santa Claus until that day.

Faced with each other now with neither one of us trying to make a move, I asked.

“So who is Santa Claus? Is he a ghost or a magician?” I sneered at her to hide my embarrassment because she made me feel stupid.

“No, he isn’t a ghost or a magician. My parents described him to me as a chubby, white-bearded old man who rewards wellbehaved children. They told me I had been a good girl. So Santa gave me plenty of coins last year – most were ten-centavo coins.

“So you are hanging a sock tonight?” I volleyed the question back to her.

“Of course.” Naty’s confidence and optimism about Santa Claus were contagious. I started to believe!

“Coins this Christmas? Wow … I would rather have them than sweets or the native delicacies as Christmas presents! I exclaimed.

Although it sounded like another “Kiko and the Python” scam to me, I began to imagine coins inside my sock the minute I unloaded the firewood in the kitchen. My mind was on overdrive counting the things I could buy with the coins. Perhaps some velvet ribbons and shiny hairpins to pretty up my plain ponytail. There was a boy in school that I liked very much.

I was short and dark, a chubby girl with a moon-shaped face, nothing close to being pretty. But it gave me the creeps when I thought of being called Ting’s girlfriend. (Tinga meant food particles lodged between the teeth. That was his surname!) But I really liked him. He might make fun of my hair looking like of a doll’s, but at least he noticed me!

Acting on Naty’s instructions that Christmas Eve, I hung one of my brother’s socks on one end of our banggerahan. I made sure it wouldn’t be blown down by the breeze.

I stretched on my bed; a mat spread out on the wooden floor to fall sleep. I was very careful not to attract attention because I knew that, just to annoy me, my younger sisters would tease me mercilessly by calling me, “Idad Luka-luka Baho.” Crazy Stinky Idad lived alone in a big house across our school. She had an orchard and vegetable garden that we frequented when she wasn’t around.

Lying on my bed, I whispered my sincerest prayer and asked Santa to grant my wish: coins inside the sock, my reward for being a good girl. I had gathered firewood on weekends and fetched water for cooking and drinking almost every day. That should be more than enough for my name to be included on his list!

I tossed and turned on the hard floor. I did not let any noise or sound escape my ear. I hoped against hope that Santa would grant my Christmas wish as he had done to my friend Naty and other children. I waited and waited until my eyelids got very heavy.

No sign that Santa had come yet. Then I fell asleep.

Angelic voices from afar stirred me from my sleeping state.

With my eyes closed I let my imagination ran wild. I did not want to hear carolers, who during those times made rounds close to midnight and into the wee hours of the morning. I wanted to see the silhouette of a chubby old white-bearded man tiptoeing and putting coins inside the sock, instead. I shot a glance at the sock dangling from the banggerahan through my half-opened eyes. Its position hadn’t changed. From the looks of it, Santa hadn’t come All photos and articles available online. Follow us

yet. As the carolers’ voices drifted farther away, so did my thoughts.

The morning light seeping through the wooden windowpanes woke me. I vaulted from my sleeping mat and hurried toward the kitchen. The sock was there, its hanging position still unchanged. My heart beating fast, I reached up and yanked it down. It dropped to the floor.

To my dismay, there was no cling-clang of coins when it landed on the hard floor. It was empty.

I broke into tears.

Naty got her coins. I was too young to know it was her parents who put the coins inside her socks, not Santa. I don’t think she knew it either. The coins were her rewards from her parents. She took care of the other children while they were away peddling house wares in different places.

The incident made a Santa Claus nonbeliever out of me. I told myself I would not tell my children stories like Santa Claus’ or create fantasies because I didn’t want them to experience the pain I felt as a child when Santa had ignored me.

Although the year ended on a bittersweet note as far as I was concerned, our family waited the anticipated bounty with much excitement.

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from page 30

The Joy That Was Set Before Him!...

20 And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come."

Luke 14:18-20 KJV These are not flimsy and ridiculous excuses, as some have sought to make them, but the most important excuses that could be given.As far as these excuses may be weighed as justifying the refusal of those bidden to attend the feast, they are worthless and therefore ridiculous; but from the standpoint of the carnal man, they did pertain to the things men of the world hold to be most important: See The Lameness Of The Excuses Given: 1.The first excuse - My Possessions (verse 18).

2. The second excuse - My Responsibilities (verse 19).

3. The third excuse - My Personal Life (verse 20).

There is evident a progressive unwillingness to attend in the excuses offered: (1) One pleads necessity; (2) the next pleads his will not to go; and (3) the third said flatly, "I cannot," but did not bother to ask any release from his obligation.

In the case of this last, a marriage did exempt the bridegroom from the war (Deuteronomy 24:5; 20:7), but not from a feast it was his duty to attend.

It has been often noted that there was really no compelling reason behind any of the excuses. Viewing land or proving oxen which had "already been purchased" cannot be looked upon as valid reasons for their refusal; and, in the case of the man with a bride, where was there ever a bride who would not have wished to attend a feast in the home of a rich man?

The three excuses have this in common: That they all plead something that pertains to self, and all place the gratification of selfish desires above duty and obligation.

In the aggregate, these three who made excuses stand for the Jews who rejected the invitation to receive the kingdom. There had come about, through ages, a deterioration of what the concept of the kingdom meant to the chosen people. Especially among the leaders, a malignant carnality had distorted their thoughts of what God's

kingdom would be; and, for that reason, they insultingly rejected Christ.

WE MUST STOP JUDGING OTHERS! "Judge not, that ye be not judged."

Matthew 7:1 KJV Though it is certainly dangerous to evaluate the problems or sins of others, the context answers the question whether we are to do so. We are to judge and in every aspect of life, as other Scripture verses show.

Our LORD continues His thought, in context by showing that we are to evaluate the deeds of others, but to be very careful with our judgments.

We should consider our weaknesses and sins very carefully, to the point of overcoming them, before we make harsh judgments on others.

How can we condemn someone else when we may have even bigger problems? The LORD instructs us to remove our hypocrisy and only then we can help our brother with his difficulty.

TWO VERY GOOD REASONS TO LOOK UNTO JESUS. 1. Jesus is the Author of our faith; and 2. Jesus is the Finisher of our faith.

What does it mean that Jesus is the Author and Finisher of our faith?

Jesus is described as the Author and Finisher of our faith in our text, Hebrews 12:2 KJV. An author is an originator or creator. The Greek word translated "author" can also mean "captain," "chief leader," or "prince."

From this we can deduce that Jesus is the Originator of our faith in that He begins it, as well as the Captain and Prince of our faith. This indicates that Jesus controls our faith, steers it as a captain steers a ship, and presides over it and cares for it as a monarch presides over and cares for his people.

The Greek word translated "finisher" in Hebrews 12:2 KJV appears only this one time in the New Testament. It means literally "completer" or "perfecter" and speaks of bringing something to its conclusion. Putting the two words together we see that Jesus, as GOD, both creates and sustains our faith.

We know that saving faith is a gift from GOD, not something we come up with on our own (Ephesians 2:8-9), and that gift comes from our Lord Jesus Christ, its Creator. He is also the Sustainer of our faith, meaning that true saving faith cannot be lost, taken away or given away.

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RELIGION | BUSINESS This is a source of great comfort and joy to believers, especially in times of doubt and spiritual struggles. Our Lord Jesus Christ has created our faith and He will watch over it, care for it, and sustain it.

It is important for us to understand that Christ is not only the Creator and Sustainer of our saving faith, but He is also the Sustainer of our daily walk and the Finisher of our spiritual journey.

For if Christ is not the Author of our new life, and if Christ is not the Finisher or Perfecter of our faith through the Holy Spirit's indwelling power, then we are neither born again nor we are true followers of Christ. Let us look at these two passages: Philippians 1:6 KJV: "Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the Day of Jesus Christ."

Ephesians 1:13-14 KJV: 13"In Whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the Word of Truth, the Gospel of your salvation: in Whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise, 14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of His glory."

THE SHAME HE DESPISED. The Shame and Spitting "I gave My back to the smiters, and My cheeks to them that plucked off the hair: I hid not My face from shame and spitting."

Isaiah 50:6 KJV Of whom speaketh the prophet this? Of himself or some other person?

We cannot doubt but what the prophet Isaiah here wrote concerning the Lord Jesus Christ.

Shame is something that mankind fears most of all, even more so than death.

They mocked Him as God, in all His offices of King, Prophet, and Priest: 1. The true King, they gave a crown of thorns and a purple robe; 2. The true Prophet, they blindfolded Him and said "prophesy! Who hit you?"

3.The true Priest, "If you are the Christ, save Yourself and us!"

"Ah, He saved others; Himself He could not save," they laughed!

4. They mocked Him in His sufferings and even His prayers.

From that little phrase "the shame"we can look back to the Gospel accounts

and observed the many ways in which our Lord Jesus Christ was shamed: 1. Shameful accusations: blasphemy (among the Jews) and sedition (to the Romans).

2. Shameful mocking of many kinds, from Herod and from Pilate's soldiers.

3. Shameful mocking of His Person, both His humanity (stripping Him of His garments), and His divinity.

THE CROSS HE ENDURED. What could have been so wonderful, so joyful, that the Lord Jesus Christ was willing to "endure the cross" for?

I mean really? He endured what has been considered the most barbaric form of death devised: asphyxiation.

Besides all the agony He went through because of the scourging; the beating of the crown of thorns on His head; the nailing of His hands and feet. Our Lord endured all that...for what?

God Almighty endured all the rejection, humiliation, betrayal, agony and distress for the joy of seeing one soul saved!A repentant sinner finding his way home.

I began to think about how easy it is for me to get down in the dumps about how "hard a time I'm having."

Whatever I have been through, or will go through, is nothing compared to what our Lord went through, yet He could say, "...Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame..."

Did you catch that last part? "...despising the shame..."The Lord Jesus didn't care about the shame He endured. He even despised it. It was nothing compared to the "joy of seeing a sinner saved!"

What can I set before me as a joy while I endure the cross that the Lord Jesus has given me? Here's just a few that in my heart right now: 1. My sins are forgiven and I'm a child of the King of kings; 2. I have a home in Heaven where there is only joy, and no crosses to bear; and 3. I will spend eternity with my Saviour, the One who could endure all He did for the joy of seeing me saved.

What "cross" are you bearing right now? Wouldn't it be easier to bear it if your heart and mind were focused unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of your faith? Now, make your own list.

THE JOY THAT WAS SET BEFORE HIM.

DECEMBER 2018 The JOY which our Lord Jesus Christ felt was the joy of feeding us with the Bread of Heaven--the joy of clothing poor, naked sinners in His own Righteousness--the joy of finding mansions in Heaven for homeless souls--of delivering us from the prison of Hell and giving us the eternal enjoyment of Heaven!

But why should the Lord Jesus Christ look on us? Why should He choose to do this for us?

Oh! my friends, we never deserved anything at His hands! The reason that Jesus went on the Journey, the reason that He became a man, the reason that He went to the cross, is that He would end up with something more than what He had before--and that something is US! Jesus was willing to endure the cross not for Himself, but for US. Yes, we are the joy that was set before Him. We are the prize that He so eagerly desired and cherished.

Jesus went to the cross and endured the shame and the pain because He knew that was the only way that we could join Him at the right hand of the Father.

Yes, we are the treasure that He sought. We are the prize for which He fought; and He is bringing many repentant sinners to glory. This is the grand finale of the plan--the plan that is not complete without US! THIS IS HIS EXALTATION. "And [He] is set down at the right hand of the Throne of God." Which is in heaven; and is expressive of the majesty and glory of God; and of the honour done to Jesus in human nature, which is not granted to any of the angels.

Here Jesus sits as God's fellow, as equal to Him, as God, and as having done His work as man, and Mediator; and this may assure us, that when we have run out our race, we shall sit down too, with Jesus upon His Throne, and be at rest.

"Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a Name which is above every name: That at the Name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that JESUS CHRIST is LORD, to the glory of God the Father." Philippians 2:9-11 KJV. AMEN!

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Flu Shots For A Healthy Life

By Salvador Granado

T

he government of Canada is doing everything it can to protect the nation from having an influenza outbreak and to make the nation healthy and productive.

One way of ensuring this to make sure that everyone has access to a FREE FLU SHOT. By way of proper information through social media, the nation is reminded of keeping proper hygiene and to have a flu shot. Flu shots are administered from all pharmacies nationwide and all health clinics. On this matter, a

friend of our community, a warm loving pharmacist and the owner of Remedy’sRx by the name of Judith Tan Macalintal. Remedy’sRx can be found at 4A-5268 Memorial Drive NE Calgary T2A2R1, visited the Tamaraw Seniors Club during their Thursday meeting to personally give free flu shots to those present.

In the Tamaraw tee shirt is the president of the club, Mr. Frank Tigley, who was kind enough to let the other members have their shots first before he could get his own. In the white coat is pharmacist Judith Tan Macalintal.

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Our kind pharmacist would also like to remind the people of the community that they can come to her pharmacy for advice regarding medications and other topics such as Diabetes Management, Medical Review, Travel Vaccines, Blood Pressure Management and the Blister Pack Program.

Please contact them at: Tel: 403-455-8138, Fax: 403-455-8216, Email: memorialsquare@remedyrx.ca.

MABUHAY ka Madame Judith!

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POINTS OF VIEW | ASTROLOGY | BUSINESS

For Communities In Need

L

ike many developing nations, the Philippines is rich in agricultural products, yet according to the National Statistical Coordination Board of the Philippines, many of its farmers are poor, with an average daily wage of Php156.80 (roughly US$ 3.41). Human Nature aims to help change this by creating demand for high value essential oils instead, as

ABOUT HUMAN NATURE Human Nature is the Philippines’ largest brand of genuinely natural, affordable personal care, cosmetics and home care products. Founded in 2008 by Dylan Wilk, Anna MelotoWilk, and Camille Meloto, Human Nature’s products are 100% made in the Philippines and 100% free from harmful chemicals. Operated by social enterprise GandangKalikasan Inc. (GKI), Human Nature is driven

well as programs that invest in skills training, sustainable technology, infrastructure, and values formation to improve the farmers' output and quality of life.

As firm believers in fair trade principles, we offer to buy at just and fair prices from our community-based suppliers, sometimes even above market prices if the market price is not enough

by the core philosophies of being PRO-PHILIPPINES, PRO-POOR and PRO-ENVIRONMENT. In 2012, Human Nature was recognized by the World Economic Forum’s Schwab Foundation as a Champion for Social Entrepreneurship. In 2016, Human Nature became the first Asian brand to receive a Sustainability Pioneer Award from Ecovia Intelligence (Organic Monitor), a globally-recognized think tank for the organic beauty industry.

to provide a good quality of life for the farmers. Having a good business sense isn't only about getting a bargain for our raw materials; it's about ensuring that our suppliers, especially the community-based cooperatives, receive just prices for their products, too.

Through our partnerships with Gawad Kalinga and other organizations who share the same vision, we aim to develop globally-certified organic farms in the countryside that can produce excellent raw materials for Human Nature products, as well as community-based enterprises that will multiply the income of poor communities.

To learn more about Human Nature and its advocacies, Visit us at: https://www. humanheartnature.ca Email us: LAB inTernational Inc. customer.service@ humanheartnature.ca Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: humannaturecanada

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Resources for Challenges with Winter

By Giselle General

The winter season is beautiful, and it is something that many people look forward to every year. That being said, there are real, tangible challenges that can insourmatable for anyone who is still getting used to the way of life here.

Below is a list of some of these resources: • For helping someone, including yourself, who may be harmed by the weather.

• 211 and then press 3: Calling this number is for the Crisis Diversion Team, which is the most appropriate resource for events that are described as “helping someone in distress before police or emergency services are needed.” In the winter, these could be someone who is outside exposed to the elements without proper winter clothing, perhaps huddled in a bench or corner of a building or sleeping on the streets.

• 911: Everyone knows this number, and it’s handy to remember to contact this number in situations where immediate assistance by an ambulance, police or fire department is needed. What’s handy is now, there is texting feature available as well, though some set-up with your wireless cellphone provide is needed.

• 811: This number is the Alberta HealthLine. With winter, there are a few common illnesses that come around like the flu and others.

This is handy for non-emergency medical situations, especially when you are unsure whether going to a medical clinic is worthwhile.

• For Snow and Ice clearing.

• Community League Sand Boxes: Whenever snow falls, sidewalks in front of one’s home need to be cleaned on a regular basis.

Sprinkling sand that is mixed with small gravel can help with having grip and traction on the sidewalks as well, making it less slippery. You can get free sand in the Sandbox

located in your community league hall. For more information and to identify the nearest Sandbox at https://www.edmonton.ca/ transportation/on_your_streets/ public-sand.aspx • Snow Shoveling Help for Seniors: It can be dangerous for seniors and people with physical challenges to shovel snow. There are organized referral programs such as the Seniors Home Support Program http:// www.seniorshomesupports.com/ seniors.html that can be useful in finding a reputable referral.

Another suggestion is for those who are able-bodied and know that their neighbour next door may struggle with snow clearing, to simply shovel in on their behalf.

• Leisure Activities in the Winter • Winter Excitement Guide: Every year, the city releases a comprehensive catalogue of activities that anyone can enjoy in the winter.

Majority of them are catered to the season, so it will involve exploring the great outdoors in a way that is both fun and safe. But there are also many indoor activities for those who want to stay cozy.

This is a comprehensive list, from activities that are free or that may require registration. There’s something for everyone! https:// www.edmonton.ca/activities_ parks_recreation/documents/ WinterCityEventsGuide2018.pdf • Explore Edmonton: This is a really good website that outlines all upcoming activities in the city all year. This is a handy place to check out any interesting festivals with all the details such as Ice on Whyte, The Flying Canoe, and more! https://exploreedmonton. com/articles/winter-festivals Many of these resources are within Edmonton, while some are within the province or even throughout the country. This is not an exhaustive list and it is only to serve as a starting point for resources.

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