Alberta Filipino Journal - February 2020 Issue

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FEBRUARY 2020 • Volume 13, Number 2

Edmonton Philippine International Centre Launching

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Being a Filipino in Canadian Media

CORONA VIRUS ALERT IN CANADA:

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Prevention is better than cure!

[Carlos Osorio/Reuters]

We’ve got the right mortgage for you Contact me:

Belle De Castro Manager, Mobile Mortgage Specialist Tel: 780 231 3126 E: belle.decastro@td.com

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Business

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL FEBRUARY 2020

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

Health Alert | Business

FEBRUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Outbreak update Sources: www.canada.ca

Current situation

Canada As of February 16, 2020, 8 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Canada.

Areas in Canada with confirmed cases Province or territory Confirmed cases Ontario 3 British Columbia 5 Global Thousands of cases of COVID-19 have been reported in China.

Aside from Canada, other countries reporting cases are: • Spain • Italy • Australia • Sri Lanka • Belgium • Japan • Sweden • Cambodia • Korea • Taiwan • China • Macao • Thailand • Finland • Malaysia • United Arab Emirates • France • Nepal • United Kingdom • Germany • Philippines • United States of America • Hong Kong • Russia • Vietnam • Singapore • India

Risk to Canadians

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has assessed the public health risk associated with COVID-19 as low for Canada. Public health risk is continually reassessed as new information becomes available.

Overall, the risk to Canadian travellers abroad is low.

The risk to Canadian travellers to China is assessed as high. The Government of Canada recommends avoiding: • all non-essential travel to China • all travel to Hubei Province, China, including Wuhan city Travellers coming from Hubei province to Canada continue to be at an increased risk for COVID-19. If you have travelled to Hubei province in the last 14 days, limit your contact with others for a total of 14 days from the date that you left Hubei. This means self-isolate and stay at home. Contact the local public health authority in your province or territory within 24 hours of arriving in Canada. This will reduce your risk of spreading infection to others.

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The research and data on COVID-19 continues to grow and evolve. We will continue to adapt our advice for travellers based on the latest science available.

How Canada is monitoring COVID-19

The health and safety of all Canadians (both those that are travelling from the affected area of China and those in Canada) is our top priority.

PHAC is working with provinces, territories and international partners, including the World Health Organization, to actively monitor the situation. Global efforts are focused on containment of the outbreak in China and the prevention of further spread.

Canada's Chief Public Health Officer of Canada is in close contact with provincial and territorial Chief Medical Officers of Health to ensure that any cases of COVID-19 occurring in Canada continue to be rapidly identified and managed in order to protect the health of Canadians.

Canada's National Microbiology Laboratory has implemented testing to diagnose COVID-19 from clinical specimens. The laboratory is working collaboratively with Canadian provincial public health laboratories to ensure there is additional testing capacity in multiple jurisdictions.

As of February 16, 2020, the National Microbiology Laboratory

has confirmed 350 negative cases and 8 positive cases of COVID-19.

Persons under investigation in Canada Negative 350 Positive 8 Total 358 For more information, visit Canada's response page.

History

On December 31, 2019, the World Health Organization was alerted to several cases of pneumonia in Wuhan, China. The virus did not match any other known virus. On January 7, 2020, China confirmed COVID-19.

See the travel health notice for more information if you are considering travelling to China.

CORONA VIRUS ALERT IN CANADA: Prevention is better than cure!

Symptoms of COVID-19 Those who are infected with COVID-19 may have little to no symptoms. You may not know you have symptoms of COVID-19 because they are similar to a cold or flu.

Symptoms may take up to 14 days to appear after exposure to the virus.

This is the longest known infectious period for this virus.

Symptoms have included: • fever • cough • difficulty breathing • pneumonia in both lungs In severe cases, infection can lead to death.

If you become ill If you develop symptoms and have travelled to the province of Hubei in China or have been in contact with someone who has: • stay at home and avoid contact with others

• follow up with your health care professional If you develop fever, cough or difficulty breathing in the next 14 days, call your health care provider or local public health authority. Tell them your symptoms and that you were travelling in the province of Hubei, China. Let them know whether you have had direct contact with animals or a sick person, especially if they have had symptoms.

If you are ill and must visit a health care professional, call ahead or tell them when you arrive that you have a respiratory illness. You may be asked to wear a mask while waiting for or receiving treatment to prevent the spread of the illness.

If you feel sick during travel to Canada or upon arrival, inform the flight attendant, cruise staff or a Canadian border services officer. continued on page 8 ► Sources: www.canada.ca

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Editor's Note | AFJ Staff | Table of Contents | Business

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL FEBRUARY 2020

EDITOR’S CORNER Lito Mendoza Velasco

Published by Angeles Publishing Company Inc. 246 Lindsay Crescent, Edmonton, Alberta T6R 2T2 Jose L. Angeles Publisher / Chief Operating Officer Sales & Advertising CP: 780-916-7677 Landline: 780-988-8889 Fax: 780-988-2221 publisher@albertafilipinojournal.com Lito Mendoza Velasco Editor-in-Chief / Associate Publisher 780-655-5126 editor@albertafilipinojournal.com Melanie Rose Atizado Angeles Administrator / Office Manager Sales & Advertising 780-993-5503 albertafilipinojournal79@gmail.com Lianne Angeles Proofreader l Contributing Writer Melanie C. Gomez Website / Graphic Designer Photographers/Videographer: Moses Billacura, Noli Granado, Dario Juanillo Angeline Escano Columnists: Marjorie Carmona-Newman, Tito S. Venida Ida Beltran-Lucila, Katrina Marielle U. Cereno Kristian Cereno, Marco Luciano, Moses Billacura Mervin Mendoza Cereno, Nicky Gocuan Giselle General, Riana Torrejon, Hermo Pagtakhan Januel Cedrick Ibasco, Fr. Jhack Diaz Bing J. Jaleco, Jomil Reyes Contributing writer: Claire De Vera The Alberta Filipino Journal is dedicated in memory of Rosalinda Linsangan Natividad-Cantiveros of Winnipeg as she engaged her entire life in service to the Filipino Community.

We welcome submissions-news, articles, pictures and letters. Letters must include signature and phone number; names can be withheld upon request. We reserve the right to edit for length and content. All submissions, unless arrangements are made, become the property of the publisher. Reproduction of contents, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited without the expressed written permission from the Publisher/Editor. Opinions by columnist, writers, and readers do not in any way reflect those of the Publisher/Editor.

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W

HY Is the most radically effective question about reality. Each of manifold questions is or meant to spark man’s imagination and excite his aspiration. By WONDER, human spirit is feasting. Motivating every one to love, dream, feel the needs, look forward to hope, and suspend judgement to believe or leap to faith. But, can also trigger to fear and grow weary. Man’s ability to imagine is the remarkable gift he has received in order to lead others into happiness through the attainment of his ambition. Sometimes, out of despair and disillusion.

So many times, man keeps on asking “why do I have to suffer this much in life instead of having a perfect one: a perfect world, a perfect country, a perfect home, a perfect job, or a perfect mate?” Man dreams about perfection, abundance, money, glory, and quantitative or qualitative change. He desires to be happy.

He fantasizes about good or evil, about the achievement of success, the encounter of failure or defeat; lastly, about the past and future.

Wondering or contesting propels everyone to discover the

suitable answer pertaining to the intricacies and paradoxes in life. Why triggers him to achieve his goals-it inspires all: to work, marry, pro-create, raise families, and contribute to improve the self and the society.

As the saying goes: “No man is an island.” That means, man, basically can not dissociate himself from the society. Aristotle said, man is a political animal. That is why, he invests in other people’s works.

For instance, in books, movies, dancing, singing, ballgames, and even campings.

Man, by his volition, been

used to wonder since childhood.

Life devoid of proper questioning asset and methodology is doomed to die. It’s a boring life. One has to develop a positive self-talk in order to grow in wisdom. As Socrates said: “An unexamined or uninvestigated life is not worth-living.” One should Keep on asking in order to explore, learn and re-learn, comprehend, strive, and survive, seek pleasure and avoid pain, attempt, anticipate, correct, describe, solve, and achieve the desired result.

Whatever purpose man may have right now, it shall proceed from the power of the WHY. For instance, once one says he wants to get married or get something done in order to drawout a substantial purpose; he has to ask himself “Why do I have to get married or get this thing done right away?” Answering this question would surely lead one to his noble purpose and all other questions like what, when, where, and how would take into proper place.

The freedom of choice is being hampered and limited by the specific goal or purpose. Different choices serve as decoys that can be mind manipulating and disturbing, yet, aim to clarify one’s destination or direction.

Why do you have to love?

Simply because, the more you love, the more you will realize how much you need to love.

What's inside: A reader's guide Editor’s Corner Sports Journal Huwag Pagtakhan!

Philippine Consular...

Viewpoint Editorial 2: Ang Titulo Sore Truth Show-My General Point of View Just Listen Filipinavigation

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From Migration to Immigration Migrant's Voices Byahe ni Kat Radyo Sa Dyaryo Make Our Daily Gospel...

From A Vantage Point Brain Twisters Through a Teenager’s Eyes Engineer In Action Jan The Man’s Note

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

Sports | Business

FEBRUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Red Deer Ballers 3V3, conversations at EFCBL The Red Deer Ballers Club is organizing a 3 vs. 3 basketball on April 11 at the Penhold Multiplex gym.

There will be a boys and girls under 17, men's and women's 18 and up, men's 40 and above and men's 6' and under.

SPORTS JOURNAL

Prizes are up for grabs, according to organizer Jerby Caballero.

Deadline of entries is on March 31.

For more information, email reddeerballers@yahoo.com or call (403) 872-5523. *** I looked up in the sky and I see that it’s going to be a nice day for a drive.

It’s a Sunday and it’s basketball day for the Edmonton FilipinoCanadian Basketball League (EFCBL) at the Abbotsford Community Centre. So I decided to have that drive and watch some games.

There I saw the volunteer officers led by Ronnie Dioso and Arvin Angeles and I got to meet too their photographer and videographer Alex Dizon Lintol. By chance I had also a chat with Grace, wife of EFCBL official Jack Juayong, who was just in a corner cheering for her husband, seeing action for the Knights team that day.

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.

The amiable Grace, who is originally from Dagupan where the bangus fish is the best, and I talked about Kobe Bryant and how this has made EFCBL players sad when they learned about it.

Then we shared our experiences how watching basketball games can bring some needed relief from the

daily grinds of work here in Canada.

Then I asked if there has been talks if there’ll be some games too for the wives or girlfriends of the EFCBL players, be it volleyball or any other sport that the EFCBL women can also be engaged too. It is something that Grace is looking forward to and for sure by the other ladies.

The EFCBL is a young sports organization run by FilipinoCanadians in the northside of Edmonton and it is laudable to see these Fil-Cans involve in sports.

Arvin Angeles said that they have one venue for the meantime, and they are planning to hold games in another venue. This is an indication that EFCBL is growing in numbers. Probably, the next season there will be two venues and that would mean the other volunteer officers will be assigned to do the task of gym preparation and running the games.

So, this early, Arvin and Ronnie, the current president, are training volunteers on how to run a basketball league. Normally, a volunteer should know how to operate the scoring machine, record the statistics, coordinate with team captains, among other things, in other words, basketball event management.

Knights' Jack Juayong brings down the ball in this game against Crosstown Auto Centre in the ongoing 3rd Edmonton Filipino-Canadian Basketball League (EFCBL) Season at the Abbotsford Recreation Centre, Feb.9. The Knights lost, 84-95. (Photo by Moses Billacura)

I am happy to know that this is happening at the EFCBL. They may have few teams participating this year, yet, I can sense that because of their proper management and leadership, this EFCBL will grow and grow in the years to come.

You are actually doing a great service to the community because you are making Filipino-Canadians

stay fit and healthy by providing them a venue to play.

(PBAC) and Filipino Basketball Association in Edmonton (FBAE).

“We love basketball and to learn

the sudden death of Kobe just made the basketball community very sad,” said PSA president Gary Perpetua.

Mabuhay kayo! *** We welcome sports news from the Filipino sports community in Alberta.

Please email mocolumnist@ albertafilipinojournal.com.

Salamat po!

Filipino basketball community in Edmonton mourns Kobe’s death

By Moses Billacura

T

he Filipino basketball community in Edmonton was shocked and just could not believe that their basketball idol, Kobe Bryant died in a fatal crash at the age of 41.

“I was really shocked. I just could not believe it,” said Floyd Eyao, a player and referee in the Philippine Sports Association (PSA) Edmonton.

Ariel Nealaga, another PSA referee, quickly rushed to this writer last January 26 to check online about Kobe. The Filipino basketeers were at the Fr.Michael Troy gym that day for a fund-raising event for the victims of the Taal Volcano eruption.

MJ Palomares, president of Flip Hoops Basketball, was among those who were shocked and accepted later on the sad news that their basketball idol was gone.

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Bryant is best remembered for visiting the basketball-crazy Philippines in 1998 that marked his strong connection with the fans.

And that strong connection has remained to Filipinos who immigrated to Canada.

In the Edmonton and Area, various basketball leagues have been organized including new ones like the Edmonton Filipino-Canadian Basketball League (EFCBL), Philippine Basketball Association in Canada

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Points of View | Philippine Government in Alberta

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL FEBRUARY 2020

Today’s Feature: “17 Camels, 3 Sons & The Wiseman” HUWAG PAGTAKHAN! (“DON’T MARVEL at MR. MARVEL”)

Hermo Toribio Reyes Pagtakhan hermopagtakhanlaw@ hotmail.com Cell: (780) 905-9288 (Hermo Toribio Reyes Pagtakhan of Edmonton, Alberta is a Lawyer who practised for more than 25 years in the Philippines and in Alberta and an Index Options Trader in Wall Street. He is currently a Family Counselor with Arbor Memorial Gardens whom he joined in 2013. In 2005 He had his Epiphany and metamorphosed into a Servant Leader and has since been sharing his Insights and Experiences for the Benefit of those who may need it and whomever may find it useful).

“I aspire to inspire before I expire! My Talent is God’s Gift to me. What I do with it is my Gift back to God. Yes, I know I am not Perfect. I also know I am a persistent Sinner who is struggling every day to find my Way to Holiness. I VOW to USE my TALENT to be a WITNESS for HIM and to USE IT for

A father left 17 camels as an asset for his three sons.

When the father passed away, his sons opened up the will.

The will of the father stated that the eldest son should get half of 17 camels, The middle son should be given 1/3rd of 17 camels, and the Youngest son should be given 1/9th of the 17 Camels, As it is not possible to divide 17 into half or 17 by 3 or 17 by 9, the sons started to fight with each other.

So, they decided to go to a wise man.

What did the wise man do?

The wise man, after giving this thought, brought one camel of his own and added the same to 17. That

increased the total to 18 camels.

Now, he started reading the father’s will.

HALF of 18 is 9.

So he gave 9 camels to the eldest son.

1/3rd of 18 = 6.

So he gave 6 camels to the middle son.

1/9th of 18 = 2.

So he gave 2 camels to the youngest son.

Now add this up: 9 + 6 + 2 = 17 This leaves 1 camel, which the wise man took back.

MORAL OF THE STORY: The ATTITUDE of Negotiation & Problem Solving is to find the 18th camel i.e. the Common Ground.

Once a person is ABLE TO FIND the COMMON ground, the issue is

RESOLVED. It is difficult at times.

However, to reach a SOLUTION, the FIRST step is to BELIEVE that THERE IS a solution.

If we THINK that there is no solution, we WON’T be able to reach any!

A very interesting LEADERSHIP and MANAGEMENT LESSON.

Today’s Reminder Feature: “Back To Basics: As The World Falls Apart, Remember This Is Not Our Home!”

That mighty China can be shaken by enemies that are too small to be seen…

That what we viewed as small is a fully destructive Volcano…

That who we saw as a basketball star could fall in a deadly crash…

Things are, indeed… never too big nor too small… never too high nor too low… never too powerful nor too faint… never too wealthy nor too broke… never too famous nor too ordinary…

Whatever our condition is, … we are all equal… we are all important…

The beginning of 2020 has revealed we are all gifts… our current status does not define enough for deep reflection: us at all…

That giant Australia is not at all what we have or possess is never a mighty protective armor… invincible from fire…

HIS GLORY! God bless all!”

So, in life… don’t be rude… don’t be greedy… don’t be selfish… don’t be ill-mannered… don’t be crabby… don’t be wicked… don't be unsympathetic... don’t be messy… don’t be all-knowing… don’t be deceitful… don’t be domineering…

After all… we are not invincible we are not mighty we are not immortal The early part of 2020 has given us lots of revelations.

PHILIPPINE CONSULAR INFO SERIES

It is never too late to be good.

Listen.

Have a blessed Month!

Philippine Consulate General, Calgary www.philcongencalgary.org

PCG Calgary Explains Consular Services to Filipino Clients of CIWA 12 February 2020, Calgary – The Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Calgary supported the Family Reunification Workshop (FRW) organized by the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association (CIWA) on 8 February 2020 for the newly reunited Filipino families in Calgary.

During his talk, Consul General Zaldy Patron explained the PCG’s consular services to the 82 Filipinos

from 23 families who attended the FRW. CIWA organizes the FRW as part of its Filipino Community Development Program (FDCP), which is funded by the Family and Community Support Services (FCSS), and in partnership with the Calgary Catholic School District (CCSD).

The one-day workshop is designed to support the Filipino families who

Consul General Zaldy Patron, CIWA FCDP Coordinator Maria Chelo Galay and CCSD Supervisor for Instructional Services Susan Robichaud together with some of the Filipino participants of the Family Reunification Workshop jointly organized by CIWA and CCSD on 8 February 2020 in Calgary.

recently reunited after several years of separation. Most of the parents of these Filipino families came to Canada under a temporary work permit and live-in caregiver program.

Through the FRW, CIWA helps the newly reunited Filipino families

integrate into Canadian society.

The other topics discussed at the FRW included: a) Parenting Laws; b) Rights and Responsibilities in Canada; c) Success in Schools; d) Teen-Talk Reunification; and e) Child Safety Tips.

The PCG’s participation in CIWA’s FRW is part of the partnership that the PCG and CIWA formed last year to jointly reach out to the Filipino community in Calgary. In 2019, the PCG spoke in five FRWs organized by CIWA.

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

Points of View | Editorial | Community

FEBRUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

A pill too bitter to swallow VIEWPOINT

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

A

larming would best describe the recent actions of the Conservatives in Alberta to trim the province’s massive $8.7-billion budget deficit. While Premier Jason Kenney won largely on the promise of job growth, pipelines, and spending cuts, Alberta’s ballooning deficit is a nagging issue that he must address immediately.

While Alberta has the smallest outstanding debt-to-GDP ratio among Canadian provinces, its debt is growing fast. It has yet to recover from the 2015 oil price crash, and what was otherwise the grand solution to most of Alberta’s woes—the Trans-Mountain pipeline— remains sidelined.

To be fair, Kenney has tried every trick in the book to get the pipeline project going. He has fought with, cajoled, threatened, and pleaded with Ottawa to help Alberta by supporting the pipeline project. He has taken his message all the way to the PM’s office, and he has actively promoted his vision

for Alberta’s future, starting with the pipeline.

But good business sense will tell you that you should not put all your eggs in one basket. Or, in the same breath, turn a blind eye to things you don’t favour. The painful truth is that aside from the pipeline, Kenney and his conservatives must address the more pressing concerns in the province. And the deficit is a pressing concern.

Perhaps the promise of cutting public spending to hopefully balance the budget by 2023 was too big a risk for Kenney. But it was the platform that conservatives foisted on Alberta’s voters when Kenney ran and won in 2017. It was a major concern for them to balance the budget as a key pillar in Alberta’s economic recovery. And while it did help Kenney win the premiership, it was a win-or-go-home proposition that, ultimately, would reap the whirlwind.

Already, big job cuts are underway in the front lines of Alberta’s public

health sector. The United Nurses of Alberta, the union representing more than 30,000 nurses (many of them Filipino), says Alberta Health Services is looking to cut 500 full-time nursing positions, starting with attrition.

Overall, the provincial government aims to cut more than 2,000 public sector jobs or almost 8% of the public workforce. It is eyeing lower spending in education and social services. It has even asked about 24,000 government workers to take a pay cut in their next contract, just a week after an independent arbitrator ruled in favor of a 1% pay raise. The Alberta Union of Provincial Employees is understandably angry.

Time will tell if these measures will be enough to bring about the progress that conservatives say will come with these spending cuts. But will it still be the Alberta we know it now to be when the smoke has cleared? Maybe the proverbial pill will be too bitter to swallow.

Ang Titulo

By Lito Mendoza Velasco

K

ay sarap sa tenga na marinig na ikaw ay titulado.

Maraming asensado ang meron nito. Kadalasan, di mo na nga alam ang kanilang pangalan dahil tinatawag natin sila ayon sa kanilang titulo kagaya ng editor, attorney, doktor, pastor, father, president, congressman, governor, mayor, kapitan, sir, madam, at napakarami pang ibay-ibang titulo.

Wow! Hindi naman lahat, pero ang totoo, mataas ang pagtingin sa sarili ng isang titulado. Dagdag pogi points kung meron ka nito. Kung kaya nga, kadalasan ay pinag-aawayan ito. Kailangang protektado nila ang kanilang titulo dahil tunay nga naman na pinaghirapan nila muna bago nakamit ang hawak nilang titulo.

Mga Uri ng Titulo batay sa antas ng tao sa lipunan: • Pinag-aralan Ang diploma ay nagsasalita. Lalo na kung merong kalakip na karangalangbanggit at medalyang parangal tulad halimbawa ng pagiging cum o magna cum laude.

• Delegasyon Ang ipinamama o iniatang na tungkulin mula sa ating mga nakatataas sa lipunan. Kaakibat nito ang mga obligasyones na hindi naisakatuparan ng nakaraang henerasyon.

• Halalan Dahil dito, tutuparin ang mga ipinangako mo upang sa susunod na botohan ikaw na ang mapusuan. Bago sumapit ang halalan, kalimutan na muna ang mga prinsipyo na noon pa man ay iyong pinanghawakan. Gamitin ang prinsipyo kapag nanalo ka na at iniluklok sa upuan ng taong-bayan.

• Negosyo Ang pera ang nagpapagalaw o nagpapakilos sa ating mundong ginagalawan. Iyan ang katotohanan. Kapag walang pera, malamang na titulo mo ay mawawala.

• Pamana Ang hawak mong titulo ng mga kalupaan at anumang ari-arian ang siyang magtatakda ng iyong kinabukasan. Ang sinumang magtangkang umagaw sa titulo na pamana ni tatay o ni nanay; tiyak na kapahamakan ang naghihintay.

Makikita na kahit saan ka man manirahan, ang titulo ang kailangan mong palaging hahawakan. Iwasan nga lamang na lubhang maging mapagpaimbabaw at mayabang.

Hayaang kapwa mo ang makakita ng iyong kahalagan. Iwasan na ang kahambugan ay maging mas malaki pa kesa sa iyong kakayahan. Ang resulta kase niyan, pati kapwa mo ay iyong ibabagsak at sisiraan upang tumaas ka lamang sa sosyodad o lipunan.

Iwasan na natin ang ugali na kapag nauna tayong gumawa ng isang asignatura, pagkakakitaan, o ikasisikat ay wala ng pwedeng gumaya dahil hawak na natin ang titulo. Bakit, sino bang hindi manggagaya sa mundo? Di nga ba sinasabi pa ng mga mayayaman na may tiwala sa sarili eh “Don’t reinvent the wheel; just copy!”

Gamitin ang titulo hindi upang makapurwesyo kundi upang buhay ay umasenso.

Philippine Consulate General, Calgary

PUBLIC ADVISORY On the Temporary Suspension of Visa Issuance to Travelers from China and its Special Administrative Regions In view of the developing situation of the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019 n-CoV) in China and its Special Administrative Regions, Philippine Foreign Service Posts are suspending the issuance of visas, effective immediately, to the following: • Foreign nationals directly coming from China and its Special Administrative Regions; and • Foreign nationals, who within fourteen (14) days immediately preceding arrival in the Philippines, have been to China and its Special Administrative Regions.

Foreign nationals with visa-free entry privileges to the Philippines, falling under above-mentioned categories, are likewise covered by the temporary travel ban imposed by the Philippine Government.

The Edmonton Philippine International Centre Initiative Volunteer Opportunities

FIVE COMMITTEES YOU CAN JOIN 1. Fund Development Committee • Develop a fund development plan for 2020 that includes setting a target for 2020 and 2021; • Organize fund-raising activities and foster partnerships with businesses and organizations; • Explore grant opportunities; and • Apply for a charitable status for EPIC. 2. Business Case Committee • Conduct an environmental scan (E-Scan) of Filipino community centres and similar facilities; • Conduct a broad –based community engagement with various sectors in the community – youth, seniors, parents, businesses and community leaders; and • Write a business case based on the E-Scan and community engagement that will inform the concept and design of EPIC facility.

3. Communications and Promotions Committee • Develop key messages to raise awareness and promote EPIC in the Filipino community and the public; • Create and document original media for EPIC; and • Develop a communication plan to support fund development activities and membership recruitment for EPIC 4. Membership Committee • Develop membership guidelines i.e. who are eligible members, benefits, membership fee etc; • Recruit members to EPIC; and • Keep a database of members and volunteers.

5. Financial Management Committee • Develop financial management procedures; • Prepare regular financial report to the EPIC Board; and • Monitor financial transactions.

• Website: EPICalberta.com • Facebook: @EPICalberta • Instagram: @EPICalberta • Twitter: @EPICalberta1 • Email Address: edmontonphilippinecentre@gmail.com

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Points of View | Showbiz | Community

8

Love Then vs Now

R

omeo and Juliet is known as a tragic romance play written

by William Shakespeare.

The story exhibits how love is not always how it seems. One of the most popular quotes from Romeo and Juliet is “Don't waste your love on somebody who doesn't value it.”

This quote`s message is that when you try to love an individual who doesn’t give you the same energy back or does not value your love, then it’s pointless.

Love is the greatest thing that can happen to and be discovered by anyone; you found someone who understands and completes you, where you begin to feel like your day won’t be complete without them.

Love allows you to forget about all the things that hurt you in the past, and focus on the present. Each day you spend together becomes the best day of your life. Each day is filled with new experiences and memories you will cherish forever. You can show them your darkest and brightest places, trusting them with everything. Love is an amazing feeling, however, with love, comes happiness and sadness.

Happiness plays a huge role in love as love motivates you to become the best version of yourself. However, one cannot experience love to the fullest extent without sadness, crying, or even heartbreak. Experiencing these negative feelings allows you to realize that the love you are giving is authentic.

What people consider today to be "romantic love" has changed over the years. Being a millennial, I can agree that love was very different then

SORE TRUTH

Jomil Reyes Jomil Reyes is a student at St. Francis Xavier High School. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, reading, and writing.

than how it is now. Today, a date is sometimes as basic as welcoming somebody over to "Netflix and Chill".

Back then, "romantic" dates usually involved men taking their significant other to the movies/dinner after gifting her a bouquet of flowers, and then at the end, dropping her off at her doorstep, giving her a kiss and a hug. Relationships back then were much more tenderhearted and simpler, where couples genuinely loved each other. Some people now are only in a relationship to "have fun" and they usually are together for a short period of time. This is because of individuals being reluctant to commit to somebody.

Furthermore, people use numerous tools to find people they can "date".

These include applications that are accessible on your phone, "Tinder" being an example. Tinder allows individuals to discover and converse with others who they think share

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL FEBRUARY 2020

similar interests. Back then, people met outside in places such as parks, bars, or even through someone else.

They would often take the time to try to know more about each other, instead of having sex almost instantly.

Sex was known to be sacred and only done after marriage. Sex today seems to be much less significant as certain individuals would proceed to "do it" even after just meeting the other person. Overall, this permits myself, as well as other people, to concur that individuals today don't value love as much as they used to.

Growing up allows people to realize that the romantic movies shown in television and movie theatres are not what it seems like when applied to real life situations. In fact, love is one of the most overused and misused words in the dictionary.

People may claim and think that they “love” somebody, where the “love” they have for them disappears within a few months- THIS IS NOT LOVE! They say that love is a set of emotions that are associated with feelings of affection, protectiveness, warmth, and respect. Loving someone involves being selfless, and trusting one another. Love is not easy as it often comes with sacrifices and hardships. It is the couple’s duty to fight through the obstacles that life throws at them.

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PBSA 2020

he Philippine Business Society of Alberta (PBSA) just recently held their Annual General Meeting last February 12, 2020 at Rolymie Restaurant. A new set of officers and directors was formed.

President: Bayani Alcantara Vice President: Virginia Sumallinog Secretary: Pia Liberty Treasurer: Loida Lumanlan

The new set of officers and directors are excited to serve our members and the Filipino community with enthusiasm. We will maintain the objectives of the group from when it was established Directors in 2017. The primary objective is to Celso Andrade unify Filipino Canadian business Resty Reyes owners and to ensure a healthy Glenn Elle economic and socioeconomic base Marjorie Newman for entrepreneurs as well as plan Nora Ragadio events that will provide guidance Peter Codizal and information for the different Aurelio Sumalinog challenges in the business industry.

Annie Chua The PBSA will constantly foster Raymart Dizon positive relations with other Filipino Lorefil Aguinaldo and community organizations.

Chester Tiongson Presently, the PBSA is represented Arnel Zabala in the group for the Edmonton Vilma Agasino Philippine International Center Mia Mulingtapang (EPIC), which was formulated to establish a cultural centre for Committee the Filipino Community. PBSA is Membership – Eden Codizal also forming relationships with Finance – Rebecca Lasquety mainstream organizations from Communication – Peter Codizal city, provincial and federal agencies.

Social / Events – Marjorie The group has new projects Newman lined up and will continue the projects started by the previous Advisors: board. We are encouraging other Oscar Dela Paz Filipino-Canadian entrepreneurs Josie Yee from Edmonton and the whole Lixmila Serrano province of Alberta to join our movement. The next general meeting Legal Counsel: will be on March 11, 2020 6:30 pm Atty. Joseph Angeles at Crosstown Motors board room.

SHOW-MY Anne dyosangdyosa kahit buntis sa birthday suit SALVE ASIS (Pilipino Star Ngayon)

February 18, 2020, MANILA, Philippines — Ang bongga ng ‘Birthday Suit’ ni Anne Curtis.

Ilang linggo nga bago manganganak na si Anne ay nilantad niya ang pictorial niya into her nakedness.

“I have been so amazed how my body has changed, created and grown a little human being - I can feel her little hiccups, her big kicks in my ribs and squirming around in me every single day. Not too long till my little girl meets the outside world and she will be the best gift I have ever received in my life Thank you for your birthday greetings everyone! Sending out light and love to all of you!,” caption ni Anne sa kanyang pictorial na mala-Dyosa.

Nag-celebrate ng 35th birthday si Anne kahapon.

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CORONA VIRUS...

They will decide whether you need further medical assessment by a quarantine officer.

Diagnosing coronavirus Coronavirus infections are diagnosed by a health care provider based on symptoms and are confirmed through laboratory tests.

Nora masaya sa remake ng kanyang bituin…

February 18, 2020, MANILA, Philippines — Ngayong Pebrero 24 na ang pinaka-aabangang world premiere ng GMA Afternoon Prime drama series na Bilangin ang Bituin sa Langit na pagbibidahan nina Mylene Dizon, Kyline Alcantara at Superstar Nora Aunor. ““Masaya ako na magkakaroon ng remake ‘yung aming pelikula noon. Excited din ako dahil ang gagaling ng mga artista na makakasama ko dito,” sabi ni Ate Guy sa isang interview.

Tatlong generations of women ang susubok abutin ang kani-kanilang pangarap sa TV adaptation ng 1989 award-winning blockbuster movie by Regal Films with the same title.

In all fairness, sa mga teaser pa lang na inupload ng GMA Network, ramdam na agad ng mga viewer ang intense na mga eksena sa pagitan ng mahuhusay na cast. Tagos na tagos din sa puso ang official sound track nito na kinanta ng Centerstage host at Kapuso Diva na si Aicelle Santos.

Treating coronavirus For now, there is no specific treatments for most people with coronavirus infection. Most people with common coronavirus illness will recover on their own.

At this time, there is no vaccine for coronavirus. Your health care provider may recommend steps you can take to relieve symptoms.

Consult your health care provider as soon as possible if: • you are concerned about your symptoms or • you have a travel history to a regionwhere severe coronaviruses are known to occur The sooner you get treatment, the better your chances are for recovery.

Flu vaccine will not protect you While coronaviruses are a respiratory illness, these infections are not the same as those that cause the flu.

If you have received a flu vaccine, it will not protect against coronaviruses.

About coronaviruses Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Some cause illness in people and others cause illness in animals. Human coronaviruses are common and are typically associated with mild illnesses, similar to the common cold.

COVID-19 is a new disease that has not been previously identified in humans. Rarely, animal coronaviruses can infect people, and more rarely, these can then spread from person to person through close contact.

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

Points of View | Business

FEBRUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Being a Filipino in Canadian Media GENERAL POINT OF VIEW

intimidating, from the camera that were much taller than me, to the large microphone with fuzzy foam around it. I wondered how much of the 10-minute conversation would actually be included in the 6 PM news segment. Thankfully, this became easier over time, as I slowly realized that journalists are people just trying to do their jobs, and that there are real challenges in the news

and media industry in Canada.

There is a feeling of pride. It feels good to know that someone thought that my perspective on the topic was valuable for the journalist. There are several instances where I share my perspective as an immigrant about an issue that universally affects everyone, such as snow clearing, and the reporters seems to appreciate it. Beyond being a Filipino, my

other identities and titles seem to be positively highlighted in some of the interviews. My non-Filipino coworkers and volunteers saw the interviews and these have become a source of meaningful conversations and greater awareness of certain topics.

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For anyone who gets contacted by mainstream media outlets for an interview, I highly recommend embracing the opportunity. Don’t be shy about teaching the reporters the proper spelling and pronunciation of names and terminology, and take pride in this valuable method of sharing information, awareness, and hope to others.

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.

L

ights, camera, and live! These words have been a theme in my life recently, due to several incredible opportunities of being interviewed by mainstream media channels. The interviews ranged in topics, length and medium. There was an outdoor interview while standing on icy sidewalks, a live radio interview early in the morning before breakfast, over Skype where I had to use my phone, and in a news studio. Here are some thoughts I had on these experiences.

There was a feeling of haste. I realized this during the two recent interviews that I had in January 2020. Two media outlets wanted to interview me about my personal perspective about the Taal Volcano eruption. The two interviews took place within hours of each other, and it impacted my work routine for that day. When I was asked to join a news panel about the Federal election last October, the request from the journalist was sent on Twitter three days beforehand, and the interview was over Thanksgiving long weekend.

There was a feeling of protectiveness.

The last thing I want is to blunder on live radio and say something embarrassing or flat out wrong. I am aware of people’s tendency to over-generalize people, especially people of color. So, I’m conscious of the fact that there is a likelihood that what I say might reflect poorly on our fellow Filipinos. Because of this, setting clear expectations were paramount. For the Taal Volcano interviews, I made it clear that I am in no way a scientist, volcano expert, or even an official representative of a Philippine organization or consulate.

I told them, “I’m an average FilipinoCanadian, and the only comments I can share are personal”.

There was a feeling of uncertainty.

When it came to the first requests I received, I wasn’t sure what to expect. The media equipment looked All photos and articles available online. Follow us

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Community Lifestyle & Leisure

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL FEBRUARY 2020

Edmonton Philippine International Centre Launching

Filipino-Canadian organizations, business sectors, Centre (EPIC). She emphasizes that “Our vision is to find a place that will link the connections between generations that respect students, performers, families, and individuals diversity, social and wellness programs as well as strengthen ties that will surely bind Edmontonians’ diverse cultural communities,“ formed a crowd to support the launching of the Edmonton Philippine International Centre on February 1, 2020 at the Corpus Christi Catholic Church function hall located at 2707 34 St NW, Edmonton.

Ida Beltran-Lucila, the Chair for this project, says that the Filipino Community has to contribute in a very significant way to Edmonton’s culture and economy. This project formed from the idea of building a home for all Filipinos: the Edmonton Philippine International Photos by Lito Velasco | Alberta Filipino Journal

There’s No Place Like Home

As the tagalog sayjng goes: “Sa hinaba-haba man daw ng pursisyon, sa simbahan pa rin ang urong.” This simply means, no matter how far have you reached in life, we will remain faithful and will always be longing to go back to our roots-we will always be aiming to pay a visit to our homeland. And if we do, do it properly. Go to the places where you can definitely learn and enjoy our culture and heritage.

Do what the Alberta Filipino Journal and its team do. Explore the Philippines while you still can!

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

FEBRUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Community | Business

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The features of the Edmonton Public Library By: Giselle General

W

e Edmontonians are very fortunate that we have a community resource that goes above and beyond the typical definition of a library. It is a comprehensive repository of free resources and accessible facilities to encourage learning, building and making one’s ideas a reality.

This is an overview of the different items and services that are available through the Edmonton Public Library system, that range from what would be commonly expected, as well as one-of-a-kind ones.

Physical Items to rent •Books: As expected of a library, there are lots of books on various subject matters and genres that one can borrow. New parents can take home books for kids and there is an endless supply of these at the library. I have personally borrowed Filipino books that were available as well. Accessible formats are also available such as books with Large Print, in addition to audio books on CD. •Video Games: The cost of video games can add up, and these are a huge part of the entertainment and education aspects of our lives these days. The good news is, there are video games for the most popular gaming systems that can be borrowed from the library, free of charge.

•Music and Movies: The library has a large selection of CDs and DVDs to help everyone enjoy music and movies at virtually no cost. Whether for educational or entertainment purposes, the ability to rent these items for several weeks provides patrons with enough time to enjoy them, and then return them for other people to do the same.

that uses an E-book app suck as OverDrive.

This makes reading much more accessible from smartphones and tablets.

• Magazine and Newspaper Subscriptions: Many Newspapers and magazines require a monthly fee, but through your library card number, you can get access to many online versions of magazines, through services such as Freading and Flipster.

• Online Digital Content: By logging in and using your library card and password, you can get access to a lot of online streaming content, such as Acorn TV, Kanopy, Hoopla, and more.

While the selection may not be as extensive as Netflix, these platforms can provide access to independently produced content, classic movies, documentaries and educational shows.

Our mayor describes libraries as our ‘indoor public spaces.’ Just like parks, these places are open to everyone.

This is just a summary of the programs and resources available, and the library actively tries to extend and adapt itself to serve everyone. It’s free to get a library card and it’s really easy! For more information and to see the locations in your area, go to www.epl.ca.

Facilities to Use •Meeting Rooms and Theatres: For a reasonable hourly rate, there are meetings rooms and theaters that can be booked for various kinds of gatherings.

•MakerSpace: These facilities enable users to not just absorb information, but to bring ideas to life. Equipment is available such as 3D printers, computers with video editing software, a recording studio, even a seeing machine, with staff available to help with using them.

•Computer and Internet Access: Similar to the Internet Cafes in the Philippines, all library branches have computers that users can borrow by the hour, for free. This is handy for those who cannot afford the internet or have no computer. In addition, printing and photocopying services are available as well.

Digital Resources • Lots of E-Books: There are e-books that one can read right off the computer browser, or All photos and articles available online. Follow us

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Opinion | Immigration Consultancy Services

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL FEBRUARY 2020

Kenney spends $ 3,960 per night for a Hotel Room in Texas JUST LISTEN

Nicky Gocuan, PMAA 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.

P

remier Kenney spent $34,000 in a 3-day winter break in Texas using taxpayer dollars.

Premier Kenney has been cutting a lot of support for essential health services because he says the Province needs to balance our books.

While the people of this Province suffer from recession and job loss, Premier Kenney had the luxury of

FROM MIGRATION TO IMMIGRATION

spending taxpayer dollars worth $11,880 for his 3-night stay at a hotel during his break in Texas. This is what the records show.

I am not sure if even her Majesty the Queen has spent this much money to stay in a hotel per night in Texas so this is really outrageous. Was the hotel room made of gold?

It would be interesting to see what the room looks like.

One thing is for sure.

Kenney should be ashamed of himself for spending so much money for those three days in Texas. The taxpayers are mad because Kenney’s Government is spending money unwisely and cutting programs that have supported a lot of people. Is this how he balances the budget? So if the Government does not have money, why does he need to spend so much on his hotel stay? Why does he need to hire security? What is he afraid of? Let me know what you think. ***** The Corona Virus is a serious pandemic. This virus, which originated in Wuhan, China, is another virus that has infected a lot of people.

It is speculated that the said virus came from eating bats. China

Riana Torrejon torrejonriana@gmail.com

has shut down Wuhan to prevent the spread of the disease. Other countries have started closing their borders and have blocked flights from China, Hong Kong and Macau.

They are aware of the threat and believed that this is one way to further stop the spread of nCoV. But the Philippines took a while to decide to shut its borders for fear that it might strain its relationship with China.

Why would it strain a relationship when China itself is a country that had to isolate Wuhan so the nCoV won’t spread? I believe China would even appreciate that the Philippines has taken measures to further stop the spread of the virus like what

they are doing.

There are a lot of rumours and speculations on why the nCoV exists but one thing is for sure, the virus has an incubation period of 14 days, which means the symptoms do not show immediately. What is important to keep in mind with this kind of pandemic is to be aware of hygiene. Use sanitizers, wash your hands, and while the use of a regular surgical mask does not protect you, using a N95 mask helps. In these trying times, let us all pray to the good Lord to guide the doctors and researchers to find a cure soon. This way, it will stop this pandemic.

Kababayan wants to renounce his permanent resident status in Canada immigrate to Canada.

Once he makes up his mind, then he must submit his application for voluntary renunciation of his PR status and once that is done,

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

Currently, she is the Prairie Rep in the Lobbying and Governance Committee and previously served as Prairie Chapter representative for the Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC) in the Governance and Nomination Committee and Education committee. Marjorie was a recipient of CAPIC's Service Award for three consecutive years (2015-2018) and has been nominated for the 2019 ATB Women Entrepreneurs Award.

In December 2018, she was a recipient of the Excellence in Community Service for Edmonton given by the Filipino Champions of Canada for her contribution and service to the Filipino community.

I

assisted a client several years ago in his application for permanent residence to Canada. Last week, he called me to say that he wants to renounce his permanent resident status in Canada.

To renounce one’s status as a permanent resident, he must meet the following conditions below: • Be a permanent resident of Canada; • Have citizenship or valid legal permanent resident status in another country • Be at least 18 years of age (if you are under 18 you must be represented by a legal guardian) • Must submit an application to renounce the PR status and there is NO processing fee when you submit an application to renounce your PR status I reminded him that once his

FILIPINAVIGATION

application to renounce his PR status in Canada is approved, there is no turning back. His status will revert to that of a foreign national.

To enter Canada, he must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa or TRV. If he is in Canada on a Visitor Record and he plans to stay longer than six months, he now must apply for an extension of his temporary status. He will be subject to and is expected to abide by the rules set out for visitors. He will no longer be eligible to receive health services, he will no longer be qualified to file a sponsorship, and will not be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship.

If in the future he changes his mind and will return to Canada as a permanent resident, then he must start a new application, meet all the requirements in place just like any foreign national planning to

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

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

Walks The walk over to you is always far too long But, any path I walk with you is always far too short.

I’m afraid to open up, And give you a part of my heart, But, Let’s not be apart.

Everyone needs a soft place to land And we have each other We just have to trust that when we fall, we’ll be caught.

Fil-Can we can Gaps we have to bridge A part not apart; What if I change what I broke, Would it change what I have, Love is about giving, not receiving; We are not creeps, We are not weirdos, We’re supposed to be here.

To “other” someone is to view or treat (a person or group of people) as intrinsically different from and alien to oneself .

The aliens I imagined growing up were always green, with large ethereal eyes that sent shivers down my spine.

he can apply for the temporary resident visa to Canada.

That is why, I advised him to really weigh all his options and to consider if this is really something that he wants to do.

Although, I can’t blame people for wanting to renounce their PR status. It could be that they no longer want to live in Canada, or they may have obtained citizenship or immigrant status in another country, or they did not meet their residency obligations in Canada.

I just want to reiterate that if you plan to renounce your PR status, please think it over because there are consequences once you are no longer a permanent resident of Canada.

But how can the aliens we have now be of darker brown tones that speak different languages?

If you have questions regarding the above article you may contact Marjorie at info@mcncanadaimmigration.com Source: Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulation (IRPR) A word of caution: You should not act or rely on the information provided in this column. It is not a legal advice.

To ensure your interests are protected, retain or formally seek advice from a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) in good standing of ICCRC. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of RCIC’s.

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Community | Business

FEBRUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

13

Quality Care Group's Salumbides, volunteers distribute relief goods to 700 families in Batangas

By Moses Billacura

Quality Care Group's Kris Salumbides and his team of volunteers with the help of donors raised around P250,000 worth of relief goods that were distributed to victims of the Taal Volcano eruption in the Philippines.

Salumbides, co-owner of Medicus Family Health Clinic and Pharmacy and two other companies in Alberta Province, was on vacation with his wife Lu and two kids when Taal Volcano erupted on January 12.

The Salumbides family then formed a team of volunteers and sought the help of their friends in Edmonton to raise funds for the project.

And for the next 48 hours, relief goods were bought, packed and loaded in vehicles and the team drove to Batangas.

With the assistance of local coordinators like Adelfa Moresca Mendoza Lofranco and Ailene Ocampo, Salumbides and his team visited five villages with around 700 families in San Luis, Batangas.

"Mission accomplished! Sa lahat

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po ng ating kababayan na tumulong sa ating mission para sa relief goods operation, maraming salamat po.

Sobrang dami po natin napasaya sa munting handog natin sa ating mga kababayan na napinsala ng Taal Volcano. Special mention to Adelfa

Moresca Mendoza Lofranco and Ailene Ocampo na tumulong sa atin mapuntahan ang mga evacuation centres. Kayo po ang mga tunay na bayani na walang sawang tumulong sa ating kapwa," said Salumbides.

Salumbides is very grateful to

fellow Albertans for quickly responding to their call for help.

The "Barangay Hall ni Kapitan Benjie Lindo" located at 9876 33 Avenue NW in Edmonton served as coordination center during the fund-raising event.

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Business

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

FEBRUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Business

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Community | Points of View | Business

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL FEBRUARY 2020

A virus and epidemic that is hard to cure: Racism

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n New Year‘s Eve, the first case of the coronavirus was detected in China. The World Health Organization (WHO) was alerted to several flu-like cases in the city of Wuhan. The next day, a seafood market in Wuhan was suspected of being the center of the outbreak. That market was shut down and sealed. On the 7th of January, Chinese authorities identified the virus called novel coronavirus.

What is coronavirus? According to the WHO, coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) and SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome). The novel coronavirus is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans. The common signs of infection according to WHO, include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death.

The virus became an epidemic in China. By January 30th, the death toll in China was up to 170.

On top of that, there were more than 7,500 cases of infections.

Cases have been reported to be fast spreading to 13 provinces, as well as the municipalities in big cities in China like Beijing and Shanghai.

The virus has also been confirmed outside mainland China. It has now spread in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Nepal, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, the US, and UK. On January 30, the first case of infection in the Philippines was confirmed by Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Francisco Duque III. According to the DOH “A 38-year-old female Chinese national who traveled to the Philippines from Wuhan via Hong Kong tested positive for the virus. She arrived

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MIGRANTS' VOICES

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

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

in the country on January 21”. On February 1st, the first death outside China was a 44 year old man in the Philippines.

In Canada, health officials confirmed a third case of new novel coronavirus in Ontario on the 31st of January. The 20-year old woman who arrived from Wuhan began to exhibit symptoms of the virus the next day of her arrival and went to the hospital according to Global News. In Alberta, the province’s chief medical officer of health said that they “tested 18 people for the novel coronavirus since Jan. 1 and so far, they’ve all come back negative.''

Sensationalizing Novel Coronavirus Before the end of January, millions in China were directly and indirectly affected. In different social media platforms, #Coronavirus, #Outbreak and #Epidemic were trending topics on social media.

Hundreds of sensationalized videos of Asian people eating live rats, bats and wild animals and insects coupled with images of “victims” and “people and crisis” flooded the

news and even dominated Facebook.

There is a sense of panic, fear and even disgust in conversations of the coronavirus in Canada. The sensationalism in the Western media is apparent.

Fear mongering headlines in Western media bombard us with headlines such as Market Watch’s “Coronavirus spreads damage to Wall Street. Could the U.S. economy be next?”, CNN‘s “China says it is 'sparing no effort' to curb the virus”, to Reuters‘ “Rapid spread of China coronavirus fuels global alarm” and many more.

These headlines create doomsday scenarios that create chaos in different communities.

We are in times that fake news and false information travels at lightning speed. Social media facilitates the rapid spread of fake news, conspiracy theories and rumors, which makes it harder for public health officials to do their jobs in handling the situation and making people safer. False information spreads like wildfire when people are afraid.

The worst kind of virus: Racism A video has been going around social media since January 30, where a white male in Burnaby BC made comments to an Asian woman about coronavirus.

In the video, the woman can be heard confronting the man. The man can be heard saying “I said you dropped your coronavirus!” Since the coronavirus news first came out, there have been reports of racism against Chinese people and mass sharing of xenophobic memes online.

In Market Place News, there

was an online petition by some parents in one school district in Ontario. The petition asked the school board to request parents whose children or whose families have recently returned from China “to stay at home and be kept isolated for a minimum of 17 days for the purpose of self-quarantine.”

There is a new wave of racism against the Chinese people. When fear is directed at one minority community, racist beliefs once again resurfaces even among our community. There are international students in Ontario universities

that have large Chinese student populations. They were the recent target of fake social media posts that alleged that these students were hospitalized for coronavirus.

Canada has been insensitive to its citizens from ethno-cultural communities and from time to time, it equates Eastern cultures to barbaric practices. The Quebec government has installed a law called “Zero Tolerance for Barbaric Cultural Practices Act” targeting the

Islamic communities. Sinophobia, has existed since the 1800s, during the building of the railroad across Canada. The Canadian government installed the Chinese Exclusion Act that prevented the immigration of Chinese workers. In recent history, when SARS reached Canada in 2003, killing 44 people in Toronto, Chinese-Canadians felt the brunt of it. The 2004 report: Yellow Peril Revisited led by The Chinese Canadian National Council-National Office (CCNC-National) looked at the impact of SARS on Asian communities in Canada. They found that AsianCanadians were victims of widespread harassment, alienation and discrimination.

Asian-Canadians reported being kept at a distance by other members of the public on transit, in schools and at workplaces.

Filipinos are not immune to the discrimination during these epidemics. The SARS outbreak in 2003 exposed members of the charismatic group Bukas-Loob Sa Diyos during their Easter Mass in April of that year. This was followed by the death of Filipino nurse Nelia Laroza, the first of two nurses that died during outbreak in Ontario. She worked at North York General Hospital.

These major incidents led to the discrimination of Filipinos and the lumping of them with all other East Asians as belonging to one community. As the Chinese people were discriminated against, so have any Asians that came from Southeast Asia. The trauma of racism and discrimination from SARS is now being felt once again.

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

FEBRUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Travel | Business

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The Summer Capital of the Philippines Byahe ni Kat

Katrina Marielle U. Cereno Katrina is a senior high student at St. Francis Xavier High School. She is fond with the beauty of art and creativity. At her young age, she wanted to influence the people about her experience in travelling through sketches.

Baguio, officially the City of Baguio and popularly referred to as Baguio City, is a city in the mountainous area of Northern Luzon, Philippines.

It is known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, owing to its cool climate since the city is located approximately 4,810 feet (1,470 meters) above mean sea level. It is also often cited as 1,540 meters (5,050 feet) in the Luzon tropical pine forests’ eco-region, which also makes it conducive for the growth

of mossy plants, orchids and pine trees, to which it attributes its other moniker as the "City of Pines".

Nature’s gift to the indigenous people of the North is a place which has been endowed with multitudes of historical, cultural and fascinating tourist attractions, which makes it mysteriously interesting.

It has become a top vacation choice for most people because the City of Pines possesses the most amiable and well-rounded tourist guides in town, majestic and jovial festivities and above anything else, the extraordinary tourist attractions that you will surely not dare to forget, for the rest of your fruitful and fun-filled lifetime.

Best of all, Baguio City is a favorite vacation escape for Filipino balikbayans and their loved ones as well.

Likewise, foreign tourists across the globe really want to have a totally different vacation experience in terms of the following travel considerations: affordability, convenience and satisfaction. Certainly, all of these vacation travel requisites can be found in the world-famous City of Pines. In the succeeding sections of this travelogue, we will explore some of the most enthralling and remarkable tourist attractions in Baguio City.

Reference: http://driftwoodjourneys.com/baguio-the-city-of-pines/

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18

Community | Business

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL FEBRUARY 2020

FORTIS, VOLUNTAS, FRATERNITAS No amount of money can buy the happiness these members of the Triskelion Alumni Organization actually feel whenever a series of get-together parties like this one happens. They firmly believe that wherever they

go, the essence of brotherhood shall always be one of life’s guiding principles. That is, Man is brother into man-Live and let live!

Happy 8th Anniversary Triskelion Alumni Organization in Canada as well as 51st Founding Anniversary of Tau Gamma Sigma!

PSA fund-raising for Taal volcano eruption victims raises cash, UMAC to ship goods

By Moses Billacura

The Philippine Sports Association (PSA)-led fund-raising event for Taal Volcano eruption victims last Jan.26 raised $820 in cash and accummulated boxes of clothes, shoes and canned goods.

PSA president Gary Perpetua thanked his fellow basketeers for supporting their event held at the Fr.Michael Troy gym.

The items will be shipped to the Philippines with the help cargo company UMAC. "Humingi kami ng tulong kay Homer Lising of UMAC," said Perpetua.

Lorna Fernandez of ATB Insurance Advisors Inc. with officers of the Philippine Sports Association (PSA) after issuing a cheque as donation to the PSA fundraising for Taal Volcano eruption victims Jan.26, PSA, at the Fr.Troy gym in Edmonton.

MJ Palomares of Flip Hoops (right) records a video message by PSA president Gary Perpetua (extreme left) during the PSA fund-raising event for Taal Volcano eruption victims, Jan.26, PSA, at the Fr.Troy gym in Edmonton.

Batanguenos Alexis Dimaculangan and Ian Gonzales (2nd and 3rd from left) A three-point shooting contest was also organized as part of the PSA join the PSA fund-raising event for Taal Volcano eruption victims, Jan.26, fund-raising event for Taal Volcano eruption victims, Jan.26, PSA, at the organized by the PSA, at the Fr.Troy gym in Edmonton.

Fr.Troy gym in Edmonton.

Players celebrate after 11-year-old Jeffrey Perpetua made the threepoint shot to win the contest.

Photos by Moses Billacura | Alberta Filipino Journal

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

FEBRUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Happy 28th Wedding Anniversary Doc Rod and Jencet Montano

Greetings | Business

19

Celebrating Kuya Jun and Ate Hermie’s Wedding Anniversary!

To be continued as you come back here in Edmonton.

Long life and happiness ahead to both of you!

Jomil Reyes is now a Full-Grown Lady

She celebrated the simplest debut in town-one of the most important stages of womanhood with her family and friends at the Buffet Royale last February 28, 2020. Editor Lito Velasco was one of the guests.

All photos and articles available online. Follow us

www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

20

Religion | Community | Media Partner

You have the Potential Mark 4:1-20

O

ur gospel for today speaks about the parable of the sower and the seed. For today’s point of reflection, let me focus my attention on the seed and the sower. The seed might be you and me scattered in different types of soil. Perhaps some of us fell on the hard path. Others may be experiencing a rocky situation. Perhaps some of us were in thorny circumstances.

Some of us may have luckily landed on good soil. My point is that our reception to God’s Word can be compared to the different kinds of soil. Friends, there are struggles and difficulties in life but let these not be the hindrance for us to grow. Let these be not the reason for us to stop being productive. Production is our mission. With Jesus we can bear more fruits.

Remember this: the moment God releases the seeds from His hands it means He wanted to unleash the seed’s potential.

We are those seeds, guys. God knows and is aware that some of us will fall in different types of ground but He keep throwing anyway because God believes in our potential. Friends, struggles can’t freeze our potential.

Problems can’t terminate our dreams. Obstacles can’t choke our passion. Difficulties can’t stop our capability to grow.

Trials can’t break our unlimited ability. In my life there were people who tried to bury me but they don’t know I am like a seed. I was covered by dirt.

It was dark but like the seed, I

MAKE OUR DAILY GOSPEL READING TRENDING

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL FEBRUARY 2020

Golden Balangay is Coming to Edmonton

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.

survived. Friends, in order for us to grow we needed to be dropped in dirt, covered in darkness and had to struggle to reach our dreams. You know what? We grow when we face challenges. My dear friends, keep going and keep growing because God’s hands are protecting you.

My dear kababayan, you are not a fixed being. You have the unlimited potential for greatness.

You can make your life beautiful, amazing and extraordinary. You have an endless potential to grow.

Focus on your potential and not on your limitations. Like the seed, your potential is limitless!

Blessings, Fr. Jhack Diaz

Golden Balangay Awards Co-Founders, Ronnie and Claire Dela Gana (2nd and 3rd from left respectively), visited Himig Pinoy Edmonton to promote and answer questions about the 2020 Golden Balangay Awards to be held in Edmonton on August 1, 2020.

In the picture are Rolan Latorre of Himig Pinoy, Annie Chua, Host Ambassador of GBA 2020, and Lito Mendoza Velasco of Alberta Filipino Journal.

By Claire De Vera

Publisher of Kubo Magazine and Cofoundress of Golden Balangay Awards

A

n epic and monumental event will be happening this summer for the Filipino community in Alberta. The City of Edmonton will be hosting the 2020 Golden Balangay Awards on August 1, 2020. It will be a first for the city to host the gathering of the crème de la crème of Filipino Canadians from all walks of life – students, professionals, workers,

seniors and community leaders. It will be a weekend long celebration of our people, our culture and our achievements, and, to honor the valuable/significant contributions of our kababayans to our community and to the Canadian society.

The Golden Balangay Awards (GBA) is a nationwide search for outstanding Filipinos across Canada. It aims to promote excellence, hard work, higher education, entrepreneurship, public service, positive relationships and community involvement. The

RADYO SA DYARYO:

award symbolizes our journey as migrants and carrying our people today to their cherished goals.

Nominations will be opening soon. Further details on the nomination and awarding will be announced shortly.

Follow the Golden Balangay Awards on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Visit www.goldenbalangayawards.com for more information on the categories and nomination criteria.

Magkatulong Sa Pamamahayag At Pag-Aliw Sa Lipunang Pilipino

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.

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

Ang Tahanan ng OPM-Himig Pinoy-101.7 World FM ay masusubaybayan mula Lunes hanggang Biyernes, 5-6 PM.

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

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.

DJ Jo-ann, Arnel and Ann Alabaz of Manila Sweets, Edna and Evan Ronnie Dela Gana and Wife Claire De Rivera Dela Gana, Estigoy of Golden Buck Bakery, DJ Rolan Annie Chua-Frith, and DJ Rolan Latorre

Alex Leroma of BeCan Immigration Services and DJ Rolan DJ Rolan, Raffy Coilan of 5G Home Inspection, DJ Jo-ann Aguilar

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Philippine News | Business

FEBRUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

21

Let Congress mandate on ABS-CBN franchise work: solon MANILA (Philippines News Agency) – A lawmaker at the House of Representatives said Congress has the mandate to act on the franchise renewal of broadcast giant ABS-CBN. Laguna Representative Sol Aragones said that while she respects the decision of the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) to file a quo warranto petition asking the Supreme Court to revoke the legislative franchise of ABS-CBN, the chamber is “prepared to tackle the issues raised by the OSG as part of our mandate to study and evaluate all matters involving the renewal of legislative franchises”.

“Handa po kami gawin ang trabaho namin dito sa Kongreso. Sana po bigyan kami ng pagkakataon himayin at busisiin itong pag-renew ng franchise ng ABS-CBN (We are ready to do our mandate here in Congress. We hope that we are given a chance to thoroughly examine the renewal of ABS-CBN’s

franchise),” Aragones said, noting that several bills regarding the matter are pending before the House Committee on Legislative Franchises.

Aragones, a former ABS-CBN reporter, said that it is important to take into consideration the more than 11,000 employees of the network and their families.

Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, one of the authors of pending bills seeking to renew ABSCBN’s franchise for another 25 years, said the quo warranto petition is an “unconstitutional encroachment” of the exclusive power of Congress to grant a franchise.

Rodriguez also argued that the petition violates the separation of powers among the three branches of government.

Solicitor General Jose Calida said that ABS-CBN had been hiding behind an “elaborately crafted corporate

veil”, and alleged that it was allowing foreign investors to take part in the ownership of a Philippine mass media entity by issuing Philippine Deposit Receipts (PDRs) through ABS-CBN Holdings Corp., a violation of the 1987 Constitution.

Under the 1987 Constitution, mass media ownership is limited to Filipinos.

“This simply means that mass media companies operating in the Philippines must be 100 percent Filipino owned because they play an integral role in the nation’s economic, political, and socio-political landscape,” Calida said.

Calida added that the broadcasting firm “abused” the privilege granted by the State when it launched and operated a pay-per-view channel in ABS-CBN TV Plus, the KBO Channel, without prior approval or permit from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).

“While it is true that broadcasting

is a business, the welfare of the people must not be sacrificed in the pursuit of profit,” Calida said. “We want to put an end to what we discovered to be highly abusive practices of ABS-CBN

benefitting a greedy few at the expense of millions of its loyal subscribers. These practices have gone unnoticed or were disregarded for years.” (PNA)

Bong Go leads opening of 62nd Malasakit Center in Isabela MANILA -- Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go on Wednesday visited Ilagan City, Isabela to join the opening of the country’s 62nd Malasakit Center and to witness the turnover of financial assistance from the Office of the President (OP) to typhoon victims and affected farmers of the province.

“Dito sa Malasakit Center, pinagsama-sama natin ang apat na ahensiya ng gobyerno (Under Malasakit Center, we have four government agencies),” Go said in his speech, referring to the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).

The Malasakit Center, located inside the Gov. Faustino N. Dy Sr. Memorial Hospital at Barangay Calamagui 2nd, serves as a one-stop-shop for financial and medical assistance from the four agencies.

“Hindi na ninyo kailangang pumila sa iba’t ibang opisina.

Palalagyan din natin ito ng express lane para sa (You need not to line up in different offices. We will also put up express lane for) senior citizens and persons with disabilities,” Go said.

Go said the provincial government of Isabela also contributed funds for the Malasakit Center as additional assistance in case the four agencies cannot cover the entire bill of a patient.

“Zero balance ang target ng Malasakit Center,” he explained.

The center covers patient services and expenses, such as laboratories, medicines, surgeries or operations, with the exemption of professional fees and private room accommodation.

The process of seeking assistance has also been simplified through the Malasakit Unified Form, which means that there is only one form to fill up for Filipinos requesting medical assistance.

Under the Malasakit Center Act of 2019 signed by President Rodrigo Duterte last year, Go said all 73 DOHrun hospitals will have Malasakit Center.

Aside from the DOH-run hospitals and the Philippine General Hospital, the law also allows local government units (LGUs) to establish Malasakit Centers provided that they meet the standards and criteria to ensure sustainability and consistency in the services provided by the centers, he added.

Go also attended the turnover of checks to the province and to its component city of Ilagan and 18 of its municipalities that were affected by last year’s typhoons -- Ramon, Rosita and Tisoy -- at the Ilagan City Community Center.

The city of Tuguegarao in Cagayan province, which was affected by typhoons Ramon and Quiel in 2019, also received financial assistance.

During the turnover, the DSWD conducted a ceremonial distribution of financial assistance to the 15 families. A total of 35,000 families were affected by typhoons which happened in the fourth quarter of 2019.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) also held a ceremonial turnover of farm equipment to farmers’ associations and one-time financial assistance to 1,000 farmers from Ilagan City and 732 farmers from the municipality of Jones.

Go took the opportunity to make an appeal to communist rebels to engage in peace talks with the government.

“Ayokong kapwa Pilipino nagpapatayan (Filipinos should not kill each other),” he said.

“Nagtiwala kami sa inyo. Ilang beses kaming umakyat ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte sa bundok sa Davao para kunin All photos and articles available online. Follow us

ang mga nabihag na sundalo at pulis.

Walang bodyguard, walang baril, kami lang dalawa...

Magtiwala lang tayo.

Wala na kayong ibang Pangulo na sinserong makipagusap sa inyo para magkaroon ng kapayapaan (We trusted you. Me and MALASAKIT CENTER. Senator Bong Go President Rodrigo delivers speech during the opening of the country’s 62nd Malasakit Center in Duterte went to Ilagan City, Isabela on Wednesday (Feb. 5, the mountains in 2020). Go also witnessed the turnover of Davao to get captive government’s financial assistance to the soldiers and police. No victims of typhoons last year. (Contributed bodyguard, no gun, photo) only two of us. You should trust us. You have no other President who will talk to you seriously to achieve peace),” he added.

He also urged the people of Isabela to continue supporting the government’s campaign against illegal drugs, crimes and corruption.

In a media interview, Go emphasized the need for the establishment of the Department of Disaster Resilience (DDR).

“Nagkaroon na po kami ng pagdinig sa Senado tungkol dito.

Sabi ko, importante na kapag may bagyo, earthquake o pagputok ng bulkan, may Cabinet-level na opisyal na mamamahala (We already conducted Senate hearing about it. I said, it is important that every time there is an earthquake or eruption of volcano, a Cabinet level official should take charge),” Go said.

He said the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, Office of Civil Defense and other concerned agencies will be placed under the proposed DDR for proper coordination.

In July last year, Go filed Senate Bill 205 for the creation of “an empowered, highly specialized department with clear unity of command and primarily responsible in ensuring safe, adaptive and disaster-resilient communities.”

He said the proposed DDR will have regional offices.

Go, chair of the Senate committee on health, also talked about the government’s efforts to stop the spread of novel coronavirus acute respiratory disease (2019-nCoV ARD).

He reiterated the need to track all the airplane passengers who were in the same flights as the two Chinese nationals who entered the country on January 21 and were both tested for 2019-nCoV ARD. “Trabaho ‘yan ng (Bureau of) Immigration, ng PNP (Philippine National Police). Kaya nilang hanapin ‘yan. Sabi ko sa committee hearing kahapon sa Senado, dapat noon pa hinanap na ninyo kaagad (That’s the job of Bureau of Immigration and PNP. They can trace the passengers. I said in the committee hearing, they should have done it immediately),” Go said. “Di tayo pwedeng mag kompyansa o maging kampante dito (We should not be complacent).”

Go urged the public to remain calm and help the government protect the country and its people from the virus. (PR)

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22

Religion | Community | Brain Twisters

FROM A VANTAGE POINT

Tito S.Venida FOUNDING FATHER

Tito S. Venida is a product of the University of the Philippines.

He used to be a student-leader during his college days and became one of the founders of the Tau Gamna Phi, one of the world leading Philippineproduced 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.

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL FEBRUARY 2020

The Good Fight of Faith OUR TEXT "Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses."

1 Timothy 6:12, KJV INTRODUCTION We can take hold of eternal life (the divine nature) only as we fight the good fight of faith. And if we want to fight that good fight, then we must do all we can to avoid fighting other fights that are not good fights.

We are reminded in Ephesians 6:12 that “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.”

If we want to fight against Satan and his hosts of wickedness, then we must decide never to fight with flesh and blood. A lot of our spiritual energy is drained away when we fight with human beings.

Our calling is to fight Satan – not

HOROSCOPE

flesh and blood. Satan has his agents within our flesh – our lusts. And these lusts are always seeking to divert our attention towards people and away from the real enemy Satan.

THE REASON FOR OUR UNREST So much of unrest in the hearts of believers is caused by struggling with flesh and blood. We may not struggle with people with words. The person we have a problem with may even be a thousand miles away. But we can have an inward struggle with him in our thoughts and thus come to unrest and be weakened in our fight against Satan.

HOW TO FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT OF FAITH If we wake up in the middle of the night, then we must keep a watch on our thoughts. Perhaps the best thing to do at such times is to pray or to praise God. Otherwise we can give room to Satan by thinking of others with whom we don't have a good relationship and very soon our thoughts can become bad ones. Then we will begin to battle flesh and blood in our thoughts and be incapacitated for the real spiritual warfare.

Let us, therefore, make a firm decision in our lives that we will never ever enter into a controversy or an argument with any fellow human being, not even in our own thoughts - no matter how great the provocation. We must always bear in mind that "our struggle is not against flesh and blood."

There may be times when we have to disagree with our fellow believers.

That may be necessary at times in order to stand for God's truth. But if it leads to controversy and strife, then Satan will certainly get an advantage over us.

Copyright @ www.horoscope.com

Temporary difficulties at home might cause you to want to stay and resolve them rather than go to work or anywhere else.

However, Aries, career matters may also be pressing, so you're likely to be in a bit of a quandary.

Obligations to others could incline you toward staying home today, Libra, but important career issues could pull you in to work. This could cause some inner conflict, and you may have to face a choice.

Some rather unsettling communications could come your way today, perhaps from out of state. This isn't likely to be anything serious, Taurus, but it could be enough to put your nose a little out of joint.

Today you’re likely to feel torn in two different directions, Scorpio.

A part of you could want to sequester yourself somewhere and read, while another part of you feels that you should get out, go somewhere, and do something.

Some minor money matters may need to be handled today, Gemini, and you might find this irritating as you probably have other things you'd rather do. The situation could cause some petty friction with family members, but that will pass.

Minor difficulties over money could put you in a state of frustration.

The problems aren’t Earthshaking, but they still need to be handled and could take up a lot of time that you’d rather spend doing something else.

The healing of a temporary rift with your partner is likely to take place today, with a lot of honest communication and more apologies than are necessary.

An argument with your partner could have you feeling very disheartened and somewhat depressed today, Capricorn. Yet you probably are too shaken up to feel like discussing it with him or her.

The desire to go off by yourself and enjoy a little solitude is likely to be in conflict with the reality of your obligations today, Leo. You could find yourself spacing out at times and unable to concentrate on any tasks at hand, so try to stay focused.

You might wake up this morning feeling a little less than your usual self, Aquarius, and you might not be able to figure out why. There could be some sort of minor physical imbalance or you might be suffering from eyestrain.

Don't expect any creative projects to go smoothly today, Virgo.

You could experience mental blocks that you find difficult to get beyond. Don't let it get to you. The blocks will pass. Just put the project aside and get back to it later.

Today, Pisces, you might find yourself getting more irritated than you usually would at the quirks of friends, colleagues, partners, and children. Nerves could be frayed and tempers around you frazzled.

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CR OSSWOR D

ACROSS

Copyright @ www.boatloadpuzzles.com

31. Suit maker 34. More aged 36. ____ of the crime 37. Concurrence 40. Mom's partner 41. Flying mammanls 42. Cogwheel 44. Tavern drink 45. Not kin 50. Pitch 51. Brought to court 52. Needy 53. Snaky letter 54. Industrious insects 55. Broadway award

1. Tins 5. Palo _____ 9. Stool pigeon 12. "Once ___ a time..."

13. Show the way 14. Make a boo-boo 15. Destroy 17. Homer's bartender 18. Pod dwellers 19. Throw 20. Atmosphere 23. Long-distance

prefixes (2wds.)

26. Printing 28. Skiing hill 29. Gave back

DOWN

1. Cow chow 2. Gorilla, e.g.

3. It follows Oct. 4. Break sharply 5. Communion table 6. Rent contracts 7. Tit for ___ 8. Lyric poem 9. Designed again 10. Got out of bed 11. Curl 16. Oceanfront 19. Subject 20. Mar. follower 21. Animosity 22. "Daily Planet" employees

24. Bottom-row key 25. Of the seashore 27. Bargain events 30. JFK's party 32. Out ___ limb

(2 wds.)

33. Vermilion 35. Feel sorry about 37. Decrease 38. Parties 39. Requirements 43. Attentive 45. Can.'s neighbor 46. Convent resident 47. Extremely 48. Billion years 49. Waterless

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

Here is the puzzle. Good luck!

Copyright @ www.puzzles.ca/sudoku.html THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

FEBRUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Para-legal Services | Community | Business

23

Filipino Senior Citizens Association of Edmonton Express Filipino Pride Through Folk Dance Mervin Cereno

T

he Filipino Senior Citizens Association (FSCA) of Edmonton, Alberta successfully held several events to promote the arts and culture of Filipinos through dance.

Folk dances were presented at several Filipino gatherings such as the Barrio Fiesta and the Philippine Independence Day Celebration. The FSCA dance troupe also performed in several nursing homes, senior homes and retirement homes in Edmonton to promote Filipino Culture through dance.

Below are the photos of the 2019 FSCA Activities

All photos and articles available online. Follow us

www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

24

Points of View | Education | Business

What is Love?

Is Love the songs that we listen to?Reminding us of the people who made us feel loved and those who hurt us? Songs that passionately declare:

THROUGH A TEENAGER’S EYES

I have died every day waiting for you.

Darling don't be afraid, I have loved you For a thousand years.

I'll love you for a thousand more.

Is Love all about the rhymes and the message from poems? Like what Elizabeth Barrett Browning said in Sonnet 43?

How do I love thee?

Let me count the ways.

I love thee to the depth and breadth and height My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight For the ends of being and ideal grace.

Is Love all about the quotes that we say we can “relate” to?

Where you believe in “Love at First Sight” and “Love is in the air”. Is that really true? Is that what you believe in?

I believe that my family is Love because my family helps me become a better person. Arguments and misunderstandings may happen, but at the end of the day, they are still your family. From the day when your mom gave you life until the day you die, they are still your family. Sometimes, my family can get mad and be strict with me but I know that deep down in their hearts, they are just protecting me because they love me. A family will love you even if the world turns its back on you. Even when the skies grow dark.

Even when the world shakes.

Even when you are happy, sad, or excited, they will always be there for you. “Family is not an important thing. It's everything.”

Your family is your “shoulder to

Kristian Cereno Kristian Gabrielle Cereno is a Grade 11 Student of Archbishop MacDonald Senior High School.

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

cry on”. In every struggle, and in every stage of your life, they will help you.

I believe that God is love, for He made so many miracles in life that really moved me. God is our creator.

I’ve had so many problems to the point where I felt like giving up.

Problems including, family, friends, and school. All of that changed when someone invited me to their “Sunday Youth Service”, where I

learned more about God. I became so much of a believer. Whenever I have problems, I just pray and talk to God because I believe. The definition of love is an extreme affection for something or someone.

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL FEBRUARY 2020

Most of us pray to God and to show our extreme affection for God. The name of God revolves around us all the time. Morning prayer, the church or temple and so on.

We take the name of the lord in happiness and sadness. This is LOVE. I believe my friends are love, for they are the ones who help me when I most need them. They will always be there for you, whenever and wherever you need them. “A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out.”

Friends will always stay by your side, even when the future looks bleak. Friends can form a very strong bond with each other, this love and bond is based on care and concern for one another; it will not be easily broken. Even through the inevitable conflicts between them, that bond will continue to thrive and will always lead them back to each other. Sometimes I feel like my parents don’t understand what I’m going through and I can’t always rely on them for advice but, I realized that whenever I talked to my friends about my problems, I always feel comfortable, and less stressed out.

Relationships with friends can go deeper and even develop into romantic feelings for one another.

High school love or “Teen Love” is what we call it. Love is not just about two people loving each other. It is not just about having a girlfriend or a boyfriend. Love is not just about romance. It is all about what’s in your heart. It is about the people who stayed in your life “for better or for worse”, “for richer, for poorer”, “in sickness and in health”.

Spread Love, not Hate.

That is why God put our hearts on our left side because loving is not always supposed to be right. Love is all about doing the things to make the people you love feel loved. Love is also sacrifice.

Love can be finding the right person at the wrong time. Or Love can be had at the right time but with the wrong person.

Love is what it is.

The Engineering and Geoscience Designation and Scope of Practice in Canada Compared to the “Engineer” Designation in the Philippines ENGINEER IN ACTION

Mervin Cereno, P. Eng. mmcereno@gmail.com Mervin Cereno is a Filipino immigrant in Canada.He is a Filipino-Canadian Engineer licensed to practice Engineering in Alberta and is employed by one of most sought-after Engineering Consulting Firms based in Edmonton as Structural Engineer responsible for designing small to medium-rise commercial and multi-family buildings. He is a volunteer and advocates to help Filipino-Canadian engineers pursue their Professional Engineering License in Canada.

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

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n the Philippines, an Engineering Profession can be obtained after graduating from an accredited University or College that offers a Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering, depending on specific

disciplines. The Bachelor of Science in Engineering Degree can be completed in 5 years after satisfying all the academic requirements.

Engineering is also a regulated Profession in the Philippines since an individual needs to pass the National Exam (Board Exam) to practice his or her Profession. A graduate of an Engineering Degree in the Philippines can work and practice his or her profession in their field under limited circumstances that he/she cannot sign a plan or design without proper authority from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). Engineering Degrees in the Philippines are recognized in most Middle East countries. In US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, however, specific academic requirements must be satisfied before a Practice of Engineering is granted.

For most International Educated Engineers (IEE) who are immigrants to Canada – the path to their professional practice must be clear under which regulating body they are covered. In Alberta, APEGA published a Fact Sheet for clarity for those “International Engineers” on what and how their profession is designated and what the scope of practice is for each designation.

Below is a diagram that explains in simple terms how they will be practicing their profession in Canada, where they call themselves “Engineer” in their home country.

Reference: https://www.apega.ca/about-apega/publications/fact-sheets

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FEBRUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

‘The Passing of Kobe Bryant’ 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.

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unday January 26, 2020 was just another routine day for Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna. The two were up early and in attendance during a 7AM mass at Newport Beach’s ‘Our Lady Queen of Angels Church’. Kobe

NBA scoring all time, 2018 Oscar winner, a loving father and son, and a man of faith, Kobe Bryant died at the age of 41.

May those affected by this tragedy, especially the families, find the inner-strength and peace to get through this tough time. May the following rest in peace:

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• Alyssa Altobelli, 14 • Keri Altobelli, 46 • John Altobelli, 56 • Gianna Bryant, 13 • Kobe Bryant, 41 • Payton Chester, 13 • Sarah Chester, 45 • Christina Mauser, 38 • Ara Zobayan, 50

Photo by Daniel Djang

Bryant and his family are Catholic and it is noted that Kobe took his Catholic faith seriously. Just like any other mass, Kobe and his daughter received the Holy Communion and thereafter were on their way to Gianna’s basketball tournament.

Kobe was known to commute by helicopter especially during his playing days in Los Angeles in order to not compromise the importance of family time as his family was a key priority in his life. Following the father-daughter duo’s attendance at mass, the two and seven others were on a helicopter headed to the ‘Mamba Sports Academy in Thousand Oaks, CA’ which is a sporting facility encompassing a way of life called the Mamba Mentality. Kobe

Bryant says this mentality entails, not necessarily seeking a result but about an individual’s approach in life as a whole. Continuing, midway through the commute, the helicopter crashed into a hillside in Calabasas, California, killing all nine on board. Furthermore, though there is no exact cause for the crash, many media outlets are saying that the weather and lack of visibility could have played a key factor in the accident. To get a sense of how foggy it was that day, the LA PD even ordered all of their helicopters to be grounded that day.

The world now mourns the life of Kobe Bryant. A 5-time NBA champion, 18-time All-Star, 2-time Olympic Gold Medalist, top 5 in

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