Alberta Filipino Journal - February 2018 Issue

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Mahirap Pasanin ang magaan!

Masters of Ice and Snow ANTONIO and ROSS BAISAS

Kaya Ko; Kaya Mo! ROB VICTORIA

FEBRUARY 2019 • Volume 12, Number 02

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Relaunching of It’s More Fun in the Philippines

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AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

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New Filipino Language Curriculum Being Developed

Premier Notley met with members of the Filipino community and announced development of a K-12 Filipino language and culture curriculum.

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BUSINESS

FEBRUARY 2019

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

FEBRUARY 2019

PHILIPPINE TOURISM

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Relaunching of It’s More Fun in the Philippines Department of Tourism invited Alberta Filipino Journal (AFJ) of Edmonton at the Relaunching of It’s More Fun in the Philippines

by Secretary Berna Romulo Puyat and Assistant Secretary Howie Uy King at the newly opened National Museum of History. She talked about sustainable tourism in a new and refreshed 2019. She invited the world to ‘be part of the fun.’

WHAT's Inside: A reader's guide Editor’s Corner Artospective New Filipino Language Curriculum Just Listen Introduction of Filipino Language Migrant's Voices Make Our Daily Gospel Reading Trending Hindi Dapat Pagtakhan SAF 44 Zumbathon 2019 Radyo Sa Dyaryo Sports Journal Kaya Ko; Kaya Mo! General Point of View Jan The Man’s Note From Migration to Immigration Filipinavigation Perezcope From A Vantage Point Beauty Tips FCSA 36th Annual Valentine’s Day Celebration T.G.I.F! Films Resources on Budgeting and Financial Literacy

All photos and articles available online. Follow us

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EDITORIAL

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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 mangeles@albertafilipinojournal.com Lianne Angeles Proofreader l Contributing Writer Melanie C. Gomez Website / Graphic Designer Photographers/Videographer: Moses Billacura, Noli Granado, Dario Juanillo 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, Perry Diaz, Hermo Pagtakhan Contributing Writers: Januel Cedrick Ibasco, Fr. Nilo Belvis Macapinlac, Riana Torrejon, Fr. Jhack Diaz, Salve Asis 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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The Power of Love VS The Love of Power

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ove is inherent in every living creature, especially, in man. Nobody, not even the notorious criminal, can claim that he does not know the essence of love. Criminals truly love what they are doing. For instance, they love to kill in order to live. The love of self is their life’s paradigm. They’ve found the meaning of their lives by doing so. Are they truly evil when killing is their livelihood? Don’t we know that some of them, had committed major criminal offences and became riding-in-tandem hitmen, bank robbers, arsons etc; the worst are the leaders who enforced the exercise of genocide. Also, manifold cases had already been proven in Courts for minor cases than the former for the commission of fraudulent acts

such as defamation, forgery, estafa, etc. If that’s how they’ve perceived the meaning of love; then, what kind of society is awaiting ahead of us? Justifiably, they may call such phenomenon as the power of love.

The lower forms of animals like lions, pythons, tigers, and the rest of wild animals, do practice preying in order to live. Quite noticeable is the “survival of the fittest phenomenon.” These may also be called as the power of love.

So, what’s wrong then with taking advantage of other’s lives then if these phenomena are the vivid examples of loving?

But, wait a minute! Are we all aware that real good is different from apparent good? That, there is a distinction between clean and just

FEBRUARY 2019 looks clean. That, sincerity is different from pretension or hypocrisy? That, love is really good if it attends to the common good—promoting benevolent love—loving and protecting one another. Living, not leaving and letting live. Real good, therefore, is the base model of one, true, and authentic love. The power of love is the root cause of all blessings.

It’s concrete!

On the other hand, the love of power may be more prevalent in the world of wrong understanding and exercise of politics. If so, resulting to digging the root cause of all evils. However, I’ve known some politicians who, until this moment, are serving the people base on their set of moral standards as well as of their Mission and Vision Statements.

There’s nothing wrong with loving your power—the power to execute what has been designed for the common good. The use of abuse is the cause and must be prevented and abhorred.

But still, there are a few who are unmindful of others in the workplace. Who are acting like they have the monopoly of Rights yet neglecting their Duties to respect other’s Rights and Privileges. That is why, harassment, bullying, mobbing, discrimination, and racism have been rampant and deprived of justice. Fight and you may be fired!

Obviously, any person in authority who practices those malevolent acts is madly in love with power. Alas! Your self-esteem will be stolen, your freedom and alienable right will be hampered, your work-style will be sacrificed, your job is at stake, your life will be ruined if you’ve crossed-way with the insecure, authoritative, and discriminative leaders. Too much love of power is the root cause of all disgrace.

Let’s take the course at the University of Life which is entitled: “Enhancement of the Power of Love.”

Happy Lover’s Day to All!

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

ARTS | BUSINESS

FEBRUARY 2019

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Antonio and Ross Baisas: Masters of Ice and Snow

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first met and wrote about the Baisas Brothers, Antonio and Ross, last year when they competed for the first time at the Ice on Whyte Festival. Already on a wave of a succession of top awards in previous competitions, they won 1st place, Judges’ Choice, and People’s Choice Awards for their ice carving “Alliance” in the 2018 Ice on Whyte. A day after the opening of the festival, they left immediately for work and two other competitions in the ice carving circuit. These were the Winter Interlude 2018 in Ottawa where they again garnered the top prize, and the Judges and Public Choices Awards at the Fete D’hiver Saint-Jean-Port-Joli International Competition in Quebec.

The top three awardees in Ice on Whyte are automatically qualified for the following year.

And so, the Baisas Brothers were prominently featured in the 2019 Ice on Whyte media releases. However, before returning to Edmonton from Montreal and Ottawa where they are respectively based, they participated in the SnowDays International Snow Sculpture Competition in Banff. Their work “Tangled”, which depicted two moose with interlocking antlers, won Judges’ Pick and People’s Choice Awards.

I had the privilege of spending

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

some time with Ross and Antonio, and witness the stages of their creation "Roarrr!!!" in the Ice On Whyte, 2019 Canada Cup of Ice Carving. On Day 1, when they showed me their design, my eyes

just popped with their derring do.

Their design was the riskiest. While the other competitors had detailed designs, they had wide and solid bases. The Baisas Brothers’ design, continued on page 9 ►

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

POLITICS | INSPIRATION | BUSINESS

A Vietnamese Who Served The Philippines Circa 2008: A Challenge

New Filipino language curriculum being developed At a roundtable with community leaders, Premier Rachel Notley announced the government will expand learning opportunities for students by developing a Filipino language and culture curriculum.

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here are about 170,000 people of Filipino heritage in Alberta, and this new curriculum will help these children and youth connect with their heritage and culture. Expanding Filipino language and culture programming to students in kindergarten to Grade 12 follows community requests to improve Filipino language offerings in schools.

“Alberta is a welcoming place made richer by its cultures and languages. As one of the largest and fastest-growing populations, the Filipino community has brought essential skills to our workforce and added so much to our social fabric. Creating a K-12 Filipino language and culture curriculum will ensure this vibrant community can continue to grow deep roots and make this province even greater.”

Rachel Notley, Premier “Providing learning opportunities for students in a variety of language programs helps youth maintain their heritage, strengthen their cultural identity and build language and

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literacy skills. Strengthening language programs based on local need and demand can be an effective tool in addressing racism. In fact, this is one of the ways we’re acting on the feedback we heard, and commitments we made, in our government’s antiracism consultations and report.”

David Eggen, Minister of Education Filipino language and culture curriculum is currently offered at the high school level as a locally developed course in some school jurisdictions, including Calgary Catholic School District, Edmonton Catholic Schools and St. Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic Schools.

After the new K-12 Filipino curriculum is developed, Alberta Education officials will work with stakeholders and community partners to identify resources to support the curriculum.

“The official declaration of having the Filipino heritage language in the curriculum of Alberta schools is a historic gift by the Alberta government to the Filipino community. This strongly demonstrates the respect for a culture’s

FEBRUARY 2019

Dr. Tuan Trieu could have dedicated his time, talent, and treasure by serving the Filipinos through volunteetism; this can also be a good model to the Filipinos. Be inspired by his words:

diversity and uniqueness through its language. Programs like this instill pride in students and their heritage, and results in active and engaged citizens.”

Dolly Castillo, Filipino community leader Quick facts The K-12 Filipino language and culture curriculum will not be mandatory. School authorities have choice and flexibility in offering language programming that best meets the needs of the communities they serve.

Besides English and French, 26 languages are currently available for study in Alberta, including American Sign Language, Arabic, Blackfoot, Cantonese, Chinese, Cree, Dene, Filipino, German, Greek, Gujarati; Hebrew, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Latin, Nakoda/Dakota, Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, Tsuut’ina and Ukrainian. (pr)

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

FEBRUARY 2019

OPINION | GOVERNMENT UPDATES | BUSINESS

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Alberta Filipinos Looking for the Right Leader

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s the Provincial elections are fast approaching. Alberta Filipinos are getting themselves well-informed on policies and legislations that might affect them.

They are looking for the right leader to support in the coming Provincial elections. With over 175,000 Filipinos living in the province, it is very important to understand how the platform of a politician can affect their livelihood, health, safety and how it can contribute to the betterment of the province they call home.

A recent welcome development announced that a Filipino Language Curriculum will be introduced by the Province in 2020. This is thanks to the united efforts of Filipino Organizations in Calgary who submitted a petition to the Provincial Government. These organizations include the Philippine festival Council of Alberta, The Young Ones Senior Group, Babae Council of Filipino Canadian Women, Rocky Mountain Filipino Association and the Filipino Catholic Society of the Diocese in Calgary. This is definitely a significant development.

While the Provincial Government has not announced the elections, it is really important for Alberta Filipino organizations to meet and talk about whom they should support and the merits of supporting their candidate of choice.

We should look at all the candidates from different angles.

We need to looks at their strengths and weaknesses so that we can arrive at an informed decision.

Did this individual contribute to the recognition of Filipinos as a vital part of the growth of this province? Can they unify Alberta with programs that prevent racism in the Province? Do they value the richness of Filipino culture (e.g. respect for elders, Bayanihan, etc.)?

Many leaders have come forward to promise certain things, only to fall short and not deliver once

NICKY GOCUAN ngocuan@yahoo.com

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

the elections are over. What the community needs most right now is a Filipino Community Centre where we can all gather, hold activities and share ideas on how we can help grow this province in order to benefit the next generation of Albertans.

The big question is: who is really on our side to support this initiative? Let us wait and see who will come forward to help the community make The Filipino Community Centre a reality. **** In the olden days, “Bayanihan” was a big thing. Bayanihan, derived from the Filipino word “bayan”, means nation, town or community.

The term bayanihan itself literally means “being in a bayan”, which refers to the spirit of communal unity, work and cooperation to achieve a particular goal.

Ang malaking katanungan ay buhay pa ba ang Bayanihan? Isang malaking hamon ito para sa lahat ng Filipino Organizations Leaders, kung kayo talaga ay may malasakit para sa ating lahi, Isang Diwa at salita, panahon na para tayo ay magkaisa. Let us work towards a common goal at isantabi ang mga personal na interes. Kaya hindi tayo masyadong sineseryoso ng mga kinauukulan ito ay dahil alam nila na hindi nagkakaisa ang mga Pilipino.

Hindi tulad ng mga Chinese o Indiano.

Pero kung nagkakaisa tayong lahat, aba hindi na nila tayo pwedeng balewalain.

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***** I wish to share the story of a Canadian who visited the Philippines and his experiences while he was on vacation. I recently read this story and thought it would be nice to share it so people can understand the Philippines better and why Samra was impressed and how he changed his mind about his Around the World trip plan after he retires.

Canadian John Abou Samra, decided to visit Palawan, Philippines last June 2017 for his vacation of the year. Happy with his El Nido trip, Samra decided to visit Kayangan lake in Coron. An unfortunate incident happened to him when he told someone to take a picture of him. He accidentally stepped on two wooden planks that split, causing him to fall waist deep into the water on one side. His legs were full of bruises and he was in so much pain. He was brought to Coron District Hospital and was attended by a Dr. Edgar Flores.

An x-ray was performed and it was determined that he did not have any broken bones. He was then advised how he could treat his leg.

During his time at the hospital, he was treated with much respect and the two nurses attending to him called him “Sir” about 25 times. Samra said he was wearing a sleeveless basketball jersey and looked like a homeless man but they still treated him with utmost respect.

Because he was so impressed

by the way he was treated, Samra returned the next day to ask Dr. Flores how he could help them.

The doctor showed him a donation box but Samra had an even better idea. While he was there, he noticed that the hospital`s equipment was dated. Samra, whose profession was a bus driver in Canada, was nearing his retirement and planned to tour around the world but he decided to cancel his tour and instead donated 1.2 million pesos worth of equipment to the Coron District Hospital. This was all because of the hospitality and professionalism of Dr. Flores and the two nurses who took care of him when he met his unfortunate incident. Samra went back to Coron in 2018 to personally witness the arrival of the 1st batch of equipment he donated.

I want to give credit to Pinoy Thinking for this story. This just comes to show how great the hospitality and professionalism of Filipinos is. Samra, who has taken the time and effort to save money to tour around the world when he retires, was made to change his mind and instead donate the money to buy equipment and help the hospital that helped him, because he was impressed with the service he received. It was a salute to Filipinos. This just shows you that Filipinos work hard no matter what the situation is. Even if they were working with old equipment, they still delivered their services with a smile and warm hospitality. Filipinos are highly intelligent people and anywhere they go, they usually go above and beyond.

Statement on the Introduction of Filipino Language and Culture at Alberta Schools starting 2020 The Philippine Consulate General in Calgary welcomes the recent announcement of Alberta Premier Rachel Notley that the Province of Alberta in Canada will offer Filipino language and culture to students in Kindergarten to Grade 12 beginning 2020. The expansion of the teaching of the Filipino curriculum at Alberta schools would open many opportunities to generate a deeper involvement of the Filipino community and ensure that generations of young Filipinos will continue to learn and appreciate their rich culture and

unique identity. This move will be a source of pride to the Filipino community. It will inspire them to become more productive and responsible members of the Alberta community.

The Philippine Consulate General in Calgary encourages the Filipino community across Alberta to actively engage the local authorities regarding the introduction next year of the K-12 Filipino curriculum within the school districts where there are large Filipino student populations. (pr)

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

COMMUNITY

The Invisible Homeless People Lando (not his real name) is an undocumented migrant worker.

He was a line cook at Wendy’s fast food before he lost his status. He said that life is hard especially in the winter. “Pag hindi pa po winter carry lang, pero pag winter na medyo mahirap po kasi maghanap ng work at kung meron man mahirap mag travel” (Before winter, it is fine but during the winter is difficult. It’s hard to find a job and if found one, travelling there is difficult as well.) he said. Lando lost his status during the four-in-four-out rule.

He was not allowed to renew his work permit. When he got the notice to go home, he made a tough decision to stay in Edmonton as an undocumented migrant. “Di po ako pwedeng umuwi, may dalawa akong malilit na anak at malaki po ang utang ko para lang makapunta dito. Ganun din sa consultant na pinangakuan ako na makakapag stay ako”. (I can’t go back home because I have two small children, and I already owed a lot of money before I came here as well as to the consultant that promised me that he can help me stay).

When asked what he thinks about the extreme weather, “hinding, hindi po ako nasanay dyan” (I can’t really get used to this weather).

“Sobrang lamig! Kasing lamig ng puso ng girlfriend ko,” (It’s so cold. It’s as cold as my girlfriend’s heart) he said with a big laugh. He’s taking his situation

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with light heartedness. I then asked him where he lives. “Ninja turtle po ako sir, palipat lipat lang po dala ang backpack ko”. (I’m like a ninja turtle; I go around with my backpack). I was alarmed. “Nakikitira po ako sa mga kaibigan, nakikitulog kung sino ang magpapatulog” (I stay with friends and people who will let me sleep on their couch) he added. “NPA po ako".

No Permanent Address (I’m a NPA: no permanent address).

The cold snap reached a low of -40C at the end of January. The extreme weather continues to be relentless even into the beginning for February. I worry about those who do not have a home: the homeless people on the streets of Edmonton.

The homeless population is struggling to find shelter as the extreme cold weather moves its way through the province. According to Homeless Hub, a non-profit organization in

Edmonton, there’s an estimated 1,752 people that are living without a home in Edmonton.

Having thicker socks and jackets is not enough to help homeless people prepare for this dangerous weather. Not being prepared for this weather can result in people getting hypothermia and frostbite in their extremities. Sometimes, the homeless cannot find a place to spend the night.

Often, when we hear about the homeless people and homelessness, we think of people in the streets. On the other hand, Lando and other migrants like him are the “invisible homeless people”. Like all homeless, he does not have a place he can call home and he cannot get one because of his precarious status.

While he works for cash, he’s not able to rent a space because he does not have any “legal” identification.

Migrante Alberta along with community research/resource institution AWARE (Alberta Workers Association for Research and Education) decided to partner with each other to find out about homelessness within the migrant community. Before the end of 2018, a grant from Homeward Trust was given to the 2 organizations to pursue the project.

The Homeward Trust Edmonton Research Committee was interested in doing community- based research (CBR) on priority issues related to homelessness. These research priorities have been identified by the Committee for 2018-19, in support of City of Edmonton’s Updated Plan to Prevent and End Homelessness that was published in 2017. Their Funding for community-based research projects supports knowledge generation and community research capacity within priority research areas. AWARE’s proposed research will be carried out in Edmonton and it seeks to influence policy and practice, and help achieve the goal of ending homelessness in the city.

The Homeward Trust fits into the work of Migrante Alberta. Both the caregiver program and the temporary foreign worker program offer a potential path to permanent residency in Canada but certain requirements must be met before applying for residency, including, two

FEBRUARY 2019 years of work. This service usually involves living at their workplace where working hours are blurred with ‘family time.’ Upon completing of a two-year requirement and additional language requirements, caregivers can apply for permanent residency. For temporary foreign workers under the ‘low-skill’ program, they either have a very limited pathway to permanent residency or none at all. Many are obligated to live in residences owned by their employers, who frequently charge them rent that is above the marketrate for similar dwellings. “Migrants, particularly caregivers, live in their employers’ home five days a week but they are homeless during their days off” says Dhon Mojica, the Chairperson of Migrante Alberta. “Many would rather walk out on their employer than work unpaid,” he added.

Approval for permanent residency, even after caregivers and temporary foreign meet all requirements, is not guaranteed.

There are caps that have recently been put into place that now only allow a certain number of people to be approved each year. This has resulted in thousands of workers without status trying to survive across all Canada. Much of these workers are in Alberta – specifically - Edmonton – which has the most numbers of temporary foreign workers in Canada. An estimate of undocumented migrants in the City of Edmonton is pegged at 25,000. Navigating housing without status puts families in very stressful housing situations, placing them at the mercy of the person who either owns the home or has signed off on the legal documents for them to stay in a room.

The overall research objective of this project is to understand the scope of precarious housing and homelessness within the temporary migrant worker community in Edmonton. How are migrant workers affected by precarious housing situations? What supports, if any, are available to them?

There is very limited research in Canada as a whole on homelessness, the threat of homelessness, and the overall precarious housing of migrant workers without permanent residence status. Recent research in Saskatchewan looked at the overall health of migrant workers, of which housing was a main factor. Findings focused on unsafe housing and questionable inspection documentation by municipal regulatory bodies. The study does not include homes of caregivers or non-status individuals and does not look into changes in precarious housing over time (Migrant Work, 2017). Research and media attention on immigrant homelessness often focuses on newcomers, refugees and asylum seekers.

It excited Lando to hear about Migrante’s project. He is hoping that the research will result in the implementation of policies that make sure that people like him will be able to live in permanent housing. In the meantime however, he will continue to depend on the generosity of friends who are willing to let him stay in their homes and couch surf. He will continue to be a ninja turtle.

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

ARTS | RELIGION | EDUCATION

FEBRUARY 2019 From page 5

Antonio and Ross Baisas... a skeletal tyrannosaurus, would after all just stand on two legs, and have unsupported front and back extensions, not to mention the detailing for the bones, head and teeth for the dinosaur. When I remarked on it, they answered with a shrug, “That’s the risk. What’s the point in competing when you don’t challenge yourself? You can’t always play it safe.” Well said.

I referred to the Baisas Brothers’ work in my previous article as A Story of Fire and Ice - fire for their passion for their work and ice as the medium. Observing them work for three days validated this notion. The longest I lasted with them outdoors was 30 minutes, whereas they would work on their sculpture for 14 hours a day, a total of 35 hours, with 15 blocks of ice. I would joke with them about having no right to complain anymore for shoveling snow and having to find a better way of earning a living. I witnessed how a plain block of ice was transformed into a t-rex’s foot in the span of 10-15 minutes. I saw their patience and perseverance in the painstaking grinding and scraping they do in frigid temperature.

What struck me most though, aside from their skills and talent, is the love for what they do and the humility for what they can do and have achieved. The ice and snow sculptors circle is a tight-knit group. They regularly meet up in

the competition circuit. So while they are competitive, they are also supportive. It is not unusual for Ross and Antonio to lend their tools to their competitors, especially those who fly in from other countries and whose tools will not be allowed to go through Border Security. Spending time with them allowed me to be privy to their conversations about which competitions to vie for, strategies for funding and making the trip viable, and commissioned works. All these made it more concrete for me, the amount and the kind of sacrifices they make for something they love, and not necessarily something they will earn money from.

Stunned as I was initially with their design, I knew though that if there's anyone who could execute the design, it would be them. And they did, with flying colours. I was amazed by the detailing, the way they were able to make the long tail curve, and the clarity and seamlessness of the ice. When I asked them why their work was so, whereas with the other competitors’ sculptures you can detect the delineations of the ice blocks, they just smiled enigmatically and said, “There’s a technique for that. And that’s the secret.”

Nature, though, has cunning ways. On Day 3, with its 0 degree overnight temperature and +4 Celsius daytime high, lovely for Edmontonians for January, proved to be challenging for the ice sculptures.

With the ice melting, a perilous part of "Roarrr!!!" collapsed 10 minutes before the final judging. Nature,

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after all, is something you have to contend with in these competitions. Nevertheless, "Roarrr!!!" and the Baisas Brothers were awarded 3rd Place and the Artists' Choice awards during the opening of the Festival. After its 2-week run, Roarr!!! Was announced the winner of the People’s Choice Award despite having part of its tail on the ground.

The Baisas Brothers were scheduled to leave first thing in the morning after the announcement of winners.

Reality sets in quickly and they needed to meet work demands for the upcoming Lunar New Year. I asked them to extend their time in the city when they return next year to allow some time for the Filipino community to meet them. Unfortunately, a return to the Ice on Whyte or other competitions might not even be in the plans, pending financial support to cover travel expenses to these competitions, and allowed time off from work. In fact, it was a little bit painful to attest that someone who shovels snow from the sidewalk probably earns more than someone who has earned top prize after 35 hours of hard and skilled work in the ice.

Nevertheless, I hope that Antonio and Ross find consolation and fulfillment

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL in the fact that we are in awe of their talents and skills, and are proud of what they have achieved and will continue to reap representing both Canada and the Philippines.

As an update, just this February, the Baisas Brothers together with Kiara-

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Lyne Baisas, won again 2nd place and Public Choice Award in the Snow Sculpture Competition at Fete L’hiver at Saint-Jean-Port-Joli at Quebec.

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

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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.

Matthew 11:28-30

Life is difficult. In fact, behind someone’s smile, there is a story we would never understand. Nowadays, we are dealing with so many concerns, worries, fears anxieties and personal issues in life. Please remember that when we face difficult times, know that challenges are not sent to destroy us. They’re sent to promote, increase and strengthen us. Just when the caterpillar thought the world was ending, he turned into a butterfly. In todays gospel reading Jesus invites all of us who are weary and burdened to come to Him. My dear kababayans, when you are overburdened come to Jesus not to the mall. Come to Jesus not

somewhere else. Jesus is the answer not drugs, alcohol, travel nor sex.

If we wish to experience satisfying rest, Jesus is the answer because He is gentle and humble of heart. He promises that if we come to Him, He will give us sufficient rest. And the rest He gives will renew and restore us.

Friends, what wears you down or exhausts you? Today place and surrender all your anxieties, fears or worries in God’s hands. When we rest in Jesus our energy is restored.

Do not strive in your own strenght.

Come to Jesus to get Jesus.

Blessings Fr. Jhack

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

OPINION | GREETINGS | COMMUNITY -HEROISM

Today’s Topic: Are You Ready?

HINDI DAPAT PAGTAKHAN HERMO TORIBIO REYES PAGTAKHAN hermopagtakhanlaw@hotmail.com

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 w\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

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ife is short and everything is fleeting. Never waste a Moment, it may be the last

with someone you love. Aspire to inspire before we expire.

Yes Folks, Life is Short and

Uncertain. Death can Happen Anytime. Don't Take Life for Granted.

Better Be Ready! Be Prepared!

Folks, here are a couple of brutal truths that every single person needs to hear.

1. You're going to die and you have no idea when.

Stop pretending that you're invincible.

Acknowledge the fact of your own mortality, and then start structuring your life in a more meaningful way.

2. Everyone you love is going to die, and you don't know when.

This truth may be saddening at first, but it also gives you permission to make amends with past difficulties and re-establish meaningful relationships with important figures in your life.

It's much easier to talk about

the weather, sports, and celebrities than your fear of mortality.

Unfortunately, the more time you spend pretending that ultimate truths don't exist, the more time you waste not being your authentic self and getting the most out of every precious second.

So, What else is there to be afraid of? All of us are afraid of Death because we KNOW we are NOT PREPARED to MEET it. ACCEPTING this Fact and PREPARING for it HELPS remove the FEAR! Time, not money, is your most valuable asset. Allow the following Information below to ignite the spark of motivation you need to make better use of the time you have on this planet.

FEBRUARY 2019

Sometimes we need to head into the storm to appreciate the light and have a renewed passion for the beauty of life.

"Pain is inevitable when you lose a loved one but Stress and Misery are OPTIONAL. With Proper Planning, Families can manage if not eliminate the Emotional and Financial Stress they will face during the Most Difficult Time of their lives. I am here to help your Families achieve Peace of Mind.

All you have to do is Call. We do the rest."

In the next Month’s Issue, I will show you and discuss How Family Counselors like me help Families Manage, if not Eliminate Emotional and Financial Stress during the Most Difficult Time of their Life.

REMEMBERING THE FALLEN SAF44 Exactly four years after that fateful day when the brave man from Virac, Catanduanes and his fellow members of Philippine National Police Special Action Force sacrificed their young lives so we can all sleep better at night.

By Carlos Tria Marquises, Jr.

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government leaders, as well as the whole country. It’s like jumping off a cliff on a pitch black night with nothing but your faith to guide you,and the knowledge that what you’re doing is for the benefit of the entire nation.

GLOBAL IMPLICATION:PNP-

here's nothing extra ordinary about this young man who grew up in an ordinary family in the town of Virac Catanduanes, Bicol Philippines. Simple,friendly, God-fearing, happy, playful, charming, a typical Tria family member in which he belongs to. Everything standard except that he's one of those Philippine National Police Elite Special Action Force or PNP Napenas, G. P. (2015, Feb. SAF who died in Mamasapano, *Reference: 09)Sacked PNP SAF Chief GetulioNapenas' Maguindanao clash on January 25, presentation at the Senate. ABS-CBN 2015. Exactly 4 years ago today, he News.com. Retrieved from https://news. was considered by many a hero, abs-cbn.com/focus/02/09/15/readsacked-pnp-saf-chief-getulio-napenasthe "last man standing" among the presentation-senate.

Fallen 44 according to information gathered from the rebel group SAF Oplan Exodus’primary mission themselves (BIFF/MILF), and the was to capture Zulkifli Bin Hir a.k.a.

Armed Forces of the Philippines,Chief "Marwan", a well-known supplier of of Staff, General Carlito Galvez’s bombs to various terrorist groups, own report. Mac-mac, as family like the Abu Sayyaf, who also taught and close friends called him,was a terrorists how to create bombs. guy with an angelic smile but with Marwan was a close associate of a tiger's heart. His name was Police Azahari Rusin, a fellow Malaysian Senior Inspector Max Jim Tria. He terrorist. Both were believed to be was taken from us too soon while the technical masterminds behind fighting for what he believed in and the 2002 Bali bombing. in service to his country. He died at *Reference: Napenas, G. P. the age of 27.

CONGRESSIONAL MEDAL (2015, Feb. 09)Sacked PNP SAF OF HONOR: The highest form of Chief GetulioNapenas' presentation at the Senate. ABS-CBN recognition service News.com. Retrieved from members can receive for https://news.abs-cbn.com/ their actions against an focus/02/09/15/read-sackedenemy force, the Medal pnp-saf-chief-getulioof Honor serves as a napenas-presentation-senate. sign of distinguished The Jemaah Islamiyah valor. While many is the terrorist group behind recipients receive of the devastating 2002 Bali the Medal of Honor bombing, an attack that from the President killed at least two hundred during a ceremony, two (202) innocent civilians, Mac-mac received it including 88 Australians, 38 "POSTHUMOUSLY".He never had the chance to Chilling final selfie. A Indonesians, 27 Britons, 7 phototaken Americans, 6 Swedes, and 3 know how their actions cellphone moments before that Danes, and injured not less were recognized by the bloody clash. www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

than 209 civilians, on top of many other attacks in South Eastern Asia.

Marwan was also in charge of the South Eastern Asian and Indonesian terrorist group called the Kumpulan Mujahidin Malaysia or KMM. The KMM is a part of the international terrorist organization, Jemaah Islamiyah or JI, of which Marwan was believed to be part of its central command. In other words, Zulkifli Bin Hir a.k.a. "Marwan" is the most notorious Bomb Expert not just here in Southeast Asia but also in the entire world. This is the reason why he was named as one of Federal Bureau of Investigation' s most wanted men in the world after the fall of Bin Laden.

One of the things that I want to do one day, when I get to meet Mac-mac in heaven, is to let him

His dad receiving a Medal of Honor from President Rodrigo R. Duterte on his behalf.

“LAKAW NIN PAKIDUMAMAY KI PSI MAX JIM R. TRIA”. A gesture of our sympathy and pride for the bravery and honor bestowed upon every Catandunganons by late PSI Max Jim R. Tria.

PSI Max Jim Tria, PNPA Batch 2009 graduate of BS Public Safety.

know how well the mission went, how much he so deserved to receive that valor award that his Dad, Guillermo "William" Tria, Jr, who is a police officer himself, received on his behalf from President Rodrigo Duterte, and the House Resolution #1876 honoring and commending him and his fellow SAF44 for their service and sacrifice. I would also let him know how the entire hometown and the whole nation grieved for his loss. He made us all feel proud to be part of the Tria family. Thank you very much, Primo. Salamat.

House Resolution #1876 signed by Vice President Leni Robredo (who was then a congress woman) and the Representatives of the entire Bicol Region Honoring and Commending the service and sacrifice of PSI Max Jim Tria and his fellow SAF44.

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

FEBRUARY 2019

COMMUNITY | GOVERNMENT

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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ZUMBATHON 2019: Dance Marathon for a Noble Cause

Lito Velasco, the COPAA’s Internal Vice President, welcomes all the participants, thanks the organizers and dance instructors, and officially opens the Zumbathon Dance Madness.

Lito Velasco, Vahen King, Mark Dee, Mia DM, and Jun Aller

The Edmonton Zumba Instructors

The Participants: Zumba Enthusiasts

Edmonton, February 1, 2019. The Congress of the Philippine Associations of Alberta, Inc. In cooperation with the Edmonton Zumba Instructors—ZUMBA Fitness , held a ZUMBATHON 2019 Fundraising project having GOING FARTHER FOUNDATION (GFF) and REYU PARALYSIS RECOVERY CENTRE (RPRC) in Edmonton.

This event was truly enjoyed by all the attendees. Its success cannot be measured by the money amass from the sponsors and guests, but by the joy it serves.

Both Vahen King of GFF andBean Gill of RPRC were extremely delighted by this endeavour.

“Wow WHAT a night! you guys! And thanks for these pictures and memories . I am honoured to know you all…Well I'm signing out now but TOO be continued... HUGS.” -Vahen King “Thanks for having this event! I am so honoured to be a part of it and can't wait to do it again next year. People saw it on my Instagram and they said they want to try it too! What a fun night!

Thank you so much for organizing this!”-Bean Gill

T:10.25"

Vahen King and Bean Gill

The Frontliners

Photos by Aris Bravo Studio and Mia DM

Hanapin ang impormasyon at mga serbisyong kinakailangan para sa iyong pamumuhay sa Canada.

Newcomer Newcomer English or French classes Newcomer employment support

T:7.5"

Newcomer services near me

Makakatulong kami

Bisitahin ang: canada.ca/newcomerservices

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MEDIA PARTNERS

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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

Samantala, naabot na rin ng Alberta Filipino Journal ang 94.7 FM-Tala luv’z Radio sa Calgary upang makatuwang na rin sa magkaparehong adhikain.

Mapapakinggan tuwing Huwebes sa ganap na ikapito hanggang ika-walo ng gabi.

Sinasaliwan ng musikang sariling atin ang pagtatagni-tagni ng mga Bukas-palad ang Alberta Filipino Journal sa pagtataguyod balitang pang-masa, pagbalangkas sa mga makabuluhang dagdag ng panlipunang pagtututungan upang isaayos ang kaalaman, at makatarungang pagpuna sa mga kamalian. relasyon ng bawat-isa dito sa bansang ating dinayuhan.

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

FEBRUARY 2019

TalaLuvzRadio WorldWide- Spread the Love Love Luvvvzz 24/7 Thank you guys so much for supporting us!

S&C Galaxy Services LTD in Cooperation with TFC presented "TalaLuvzRadio Worldwide Launched at New Horizon Mall” last January 12, 2019.

Tune in with your hosts Sherry Anne & Solrac http://www.TalaLuvzRadio.com TalaLuvzRadio 94.7FM - Every Thursday from 7:00PM - 8:00PM Much Love Love Luvvzzz to our amazing team, partners, sponsors, local talents, celebrity friends our TalaLuvznerz and TalaLuvzViewerz from all over the Galaxy!

God Truly Works in Wonders WE ALL DID IT! Thank you for sharing your expertise and your genuine passion for your craft, our variety show of 4 hours was truly amazing.

Much Love from Sherry Anne, Solrac and your TalaLuvzRadio Family

Pinoy Roots Rondalla

Gi Design! Ian Garbino & staff

www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

Baby Tala the CEO of TalaLuvzRadio - Spread the Love Love Luvvvzzz

Charlene Ogalesco and Jomari Bacalso Denuro

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FEBRUARY 2019

COMMUNTY | BUSINESS | GOVERNMENT

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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`Boodle fight’ is back at Las Batanguenas resto

By Moses Billacura

Rem Serrano of Las Batanguenas restaurant said they have been receiving requests to bring back the “boodle fight” menu and so they answered “Yes”.

With the help of chefs Dax Gueco Cayabyab, Richan Daylo

and the rest of the staff, Serrano said they started offering two types, seafood and regular menu, good for 6 to 10 persons.

“Unli din yung rice natin diyan,” said Serrano last February 7 at The Filipino Centre along Roper Road.

"Kamayan" is a popular Filipino way of enjoying food in the Philippines.

S&C Galaxy and TalaLuvzRadio's amazing Team

Las Batanguenas owner Rem Serrano (right) with Lito Velasco, Filipino Journal editor, chef Dax, Ryan Mercado of Alberta Medical Supplies, Benjie Lindo of Benjie Lindo Live Updates.(Contributed photo) S&C Galaxy Services and TalaLuvzRadio with our TFC Family

The Beauty Queens of Alberta - Sheerin, Saii Carys, Kyla, Danzel and Mandy

BEM’S

A newly opened Restaurant at 9711 107th Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta.

Tangkilikin ang Sariling Atin!

Solrac and Sherry Anne's Interview with the Cast of The Replecan Movie (Top photo) LCMB Dancers for opening our show - Much love from your TalaLuvzRadio Family

TalaLuvzRadio and S&C Galaxy Family with Yung Dre

(Right photo) TalaLuvzRadio introducing Canada's uprising Rapper from YYCYung Dre

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

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SPORTS

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

FEBRUARY 2019

Diesmos shifts to judo, Tam wins, FBAE looks for backers, another successful Crosstown Auto-PSA league

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just learned that Isla Diesmos, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu champion in Calgary who was featured

by CTV News, has shifted to Judo.

Diesmos turned to jiu-jitsu to keep her bullies away and started her advocacy against bullying. She decided to learn Judo, an Olympic sport, and we wish her all the best. *** Filipino-Calgarian Alvin Tam won his fight over Mexican Rutilo Moreno via TKO last January 19 in Calgary.

This win brings another opportunity for the former WBC Asian Boxing Council Continental featherweight champion and we hope that with more fights, and

SPORTS JOURNAL MOSES BILLACURA mo.sports@gmail.com

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

to pay the gym rental at Saville, that would mean lower cost of registration fee for the players or if they can find a playing venue that is

FBAE Founder Ruel Linoy (extreme left) and tournament commissioner Ernie Buton (extreme right) with the Mythical Five winners (left-right) Shawn Cardinal, Mark Nidoy, Mc Twins, Homer Carpio and Jay Camarillo.(Contributed photo)

was all smiles after the game because they won over Amirax, 97-92. They had a comfortable lead, 81-65 at the end of the third but Leandro Baui, Nico Yola, who drilled in 37 points that day, and his teammates started working hard in the fourth quarter to cut down the lead. However, Amirax ran out of steam and CFH’s Milo Villamor, Christian Liwanag and Joven Datu, who topscored wit 27 points, started piling up points en route to a five-point victory in the Open Division 2A. Christian Liwanag was voted MVP. Renato “Rene” Ronabio of Renerey Mart, a Filipino convenience store, was also one happy team manager when his team defeated Fine Arts-Ryan Paluca Mortgage, 91-73 in the Open Division 2B.

Jonathan Roquel of Renerey Mart was named MVP. In the Open Division 1, X-Men shot down the Flying Eagles, 76-71 with Cyril Ashworth leading the victory with 34 points. Jesse Papila emerged MVP. In the Master's 1 Division, Pinoy Auto Loans missed the services of key players Alwyn Espiritu and Oscar Nepomuceno and so they lost to Crosstown Auto Centre, 8395. Pao Kintanar was final’s MVP. Buddha Bless You led by Alex Perea and Ed Canete stopped Crosstown Auto in the Super Master Division, 87-63. Kuya Joe Medina, president of Crosstown Auto, is supposed to be suiting up for the squad but he was, I believe, out of town at that time, leaving Erdz Orquez and John Gonzales to do the scoring job. But Canete, who scored 19 points, and his teammates were relentless to secure the win.

In the Master’s Division 2, the Wolverines beat The Blitz, 93-81 with Rey Dalit firing 26 points. PJ Villacarlos was voted MVP. And finally in the Open Division 2C (they were scheduled at 8 a.m.), Clearcut Insurance trounced the Kapbeh Boyz, 82-73 with Christian Oyson leading the charge for Clearcut with 21 points. Jerome Mejia, who was named MVP, led Kapbeh with 23.

Congratulations to the champions

and PSA officers led by president Gary Perpetua. *** The COPAA recently organized a Zumbathon and it was successful.

Thanks to the participation of Zumbathon addicts and we hope there will be more events to come! *** We are encouraging leaders of the Filipino sports community to send us your sports balita and photos to mocolumnist@albertafilipinojournal. com.

Salamat po!

Nakie Cuenco of CFH-Max's Restaurant/ Kung Fu Team protects the ball from Leandro Baui of Amirax in the 2019 Crosstown Auto Centre-PSA League, January 27, at the Archbishop Romero gym. CFH won, 97-92.

(Photo by Moses Billacura)

The Misfits are not "misfits" at all after they won the Filipino Basketball Association of Edmonton(FBAE) Finals over Young Bloodz, 82-77 at the Saville gym.(Contributed photo)

more victories, Tam will be given the opportunity for a title fight.

Someday Alvin eh? *** The Filipino Basketball Association of Edmonton (FBAE) is a young, four-year-old basketball organization co-founded by Ruel Linoy, Lou Tabanao and Ernie Buton.

They started holding small tournaments with just eight teams and just last month, they successfully finished the league with Misfits winning the title over Young Bloodz, 82-77 and the Aguilas finished third.

Buton said their plan is for Pinoy basketeers to be able to play more games in a league, hence, the creation of FBAE and with few teams it would be manageable. He said that the registration fees of other leagues have been skyrocketing and with fewer games to play, they are now giving players an option.

Being a small organization, they are still looking for sponsors to support their league. If they can find a sponsor who will be willing www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

less costly, that would be great too.

In the conduct of leagues, officiating fees, usually, are the biggest expenditure. I wonder if there are Filipino referees here who are willing to lower their fees and support small organizations like FBAE. Once they become big like the PSA, then they can ask for the standard officiating fee per game.

We’ll see. *** The Crosstown Auto Centrebacked Philippine Sports Association (PSA) Basketball League had another successful run in Edmonton and the teams that emerged champions made their coaches and sponsors very happy.

Let’s start with Changes for Hope(CFH). CFH, coached by former PBA player Merwin Castello, who was always using a tactical board to visualize to players the play that he wanted in a situation, has partnered with Max’s Restaurant and Kung Fu Tea. Team manager Edwin Arciaga, who is manager at Max’s Restaurant,

PSA president Gary Perpetua (extreme left) with the Renerey Mart squad led by their team manager Rene Ronabio (center with cap) with their champion's trophy in the 2019 Crosstown Auto Centre-PSA League, January 27, at the Archbishop Romero gym. Joining them are Chester Tiongson and Jecris Bautista of Crosstown Auto Centre (2nd and 3rd from left). (Photo by Moses Billacura)

Darts Tournament on March 15-16

By Moses Billacura

Preparations are in high gear for the First “Benjie Lindo Live”Darts Tournament on March 16-17 at the Tahanan ni Benjie Centre, 9876 33 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6N 1C6.

Presented by Metro Medical Supplies (MMS), Lindo said the dartsfest is expected to attract 32 players for a start with the top 8 advancing to the final round on the second day.

“Katuwaan po ito sa mga mahilig mag darts,” said Lindo who can be reached at (780)885-2698.

Lindo said that the Tahanan was opened to give the Filipino community a venue for organizing small events like the dartsfest.

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

INSPIRATION | IMMIGRATION CONSULTANCY SERVICES

FEBRUARY 2019

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Filipinos Success' Stories:

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

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By Marianne Rosal

f you’ve ever visited Go Honda, you may have met Rob Victoria, the Go Honda Club Manager in Edmonton’s southside. Rob is one of the many people helping kababayans reach their dream of owning a vehicle.

When asked what makes him feel so accomplished, he responds, “when I see smiles on the faces of my clients after I deliver their vehicle.

Having a car is not only a need, but a wish for everyone. Being a channel in fulfilling that wish makes me feel great.”

And this satisfaction and what he attributes to his astounding 33 years of sales experience. However, he didn’t start off this way. In the Philippines, Rob was a licensed civil engineer before he found his way in marketing and sales. Before moving to Canada, Rob even had experience working for United Laboratories promoting pharmaceutical brands.

Then Rob moved to Canada where, wanting to improve his life and his family’s, he worked a variety of jobs and obtained real estate, investment and insurance license to add to his skillset. He has worked as a financial advisor, a mortgage specialist and a real estate agent before he found himself in Go Honda.

All in all, Rob’s career path took a colorful turn towards marketing and sales. “I’m a natural marketeer,” he comments, “ I have the knack for dealing with people and selling.”

When asked to ponder and think if this is what he thought he would be doing, he responds, “At a young age,, my parents taught me to be independent. Being independent makes you adapt and accomplish any task, in any circumstance. That for me is also being able to live your dreams and aspirations.”

The actions make the man, and Rob’s decisions has truly made him.

He walks his talk by how he has lived his life, continuously growing and adding to his skill set. Like many new immigrants, Rob had difficulties. But to Rob, his determination and belief in his ability to accomplish got him through the toughest points of his life, as he says, “Nothing is impossible.

Your height determines your flight.”

Amongst all his accomplishments, Rob cites that reaching out to his kababayans is the most rewarding. “I am proud that I am able to reach out to my fellow Filipinos and Canadians with good intentions, sincerity and honesty,” he says, “These enabled be to develop a good network of clients who have also become my good friends.”

And indeed, Rob’s success is only paralleled by how many people he has encountered, many of which he calls dear friends.

To kababayans who dream of a career in sales and marketing, or who wish to, like Rob, re-engineer their lives after having moved to Canada, he says, “The best advise I can give is for them to always think that anything is possible, as long as one has the right attitude and intention to achieve.”

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

COMMUNITY | BUSINESS | IMMIGRATION CONSULTANCY SERVICES

FEBRUARY 2019

Pinoy professionals host Homebuyer’s Seminar at CCI Homes

For kabayan Rosemarie, there's `Pasyal Therapy' after getting mobility equipment at Alberta Medical Supplies

By Moses Billacura

By Moses Billacura

LEDUC --- A group of Filipino professionals conducted a “First-time Homebuyer’s Seminar”, Feb.1 at the CCI Homes, here.

Dorothy Cornel of REMAX River City, Ryan Paluca of Dominion Lending and Atty.Katrina Angeles of Angeles Law were the resource speakers and gave the attendees valuable information on what to do when buying a home.

“Our role is to guide you, all the way because buying a home is a big

investment,” said Cornel who encouraged the participants to always seek the advice of a professional.

Paluca, on the other hand, said that as a mortgage professional, Dominion Lending will look for the best rates and products for their clients. “We approach monoline banks and major banks in Canada,” he said.

Atty.Angeles said Angeles Law comes in to help in the process and make sure that the legal paperwork is done.

EDMONTON --- Life, as we all know, has its ups and downs.

For kabayan Rosemarie Olais Cardinales, physical disability hit her but with modern equipment available in Canada, she has what she described as "Pasyal Therapy".

According to Statistics Canada, "nearly 2.1 million women aged 15

or older reported having one or more disabilities that limited them in their daily activities in 2012".

Cardinales, her family and friends came to Alberta Medical Supplies(AMS), a Filipino co-owned medical supplies company that operates in Edmonton and Calgary, and received the needed support.

"With my New Mobility Scooter, di

na ako mai stock sa isang lugar kapag napagod na ang masasakit na binti, paa at kalamnan. Kahit hilo at masakit ang leeg, ulo, kamay at mga braso pwede pa ring maipasyal ni Myloves!", she said on her FB post.

"Tuloy lang ang buhay," she added.

Cardinales thanked her family, friends and the AMS staff for their "help and support".

Atty.Katrina Angeles of Angeles Law speaks to participants of the First-Time Homebuyer’s Seminar, Feb.1, at the CCI Homes in Leduc.(Photo by Moses Billacura)

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

FEBRUARY 2019

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BUSINESS - HEALTH

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY

FEBRUARY 2019

Fly Friendly Travel (FFT) supports the Filipino-Canadian Association of Bow Valley in Banff, Alberta. FFT President Resty Reyes congratulates the officers and members for the successful “Heart of my Heart’s Night” post-Valentine’s event held at Voyager Inn Banff Alberta last February 16, 2019

Deputy Consul General Zaldy Patron and Ms. Sheila Castillo-Patron, Mr. Resty Reyes and Ms. Teri Reyes of Fly Friendly Travel & Tours, Dr. Nimrod Montano of Great Smile Family Dental and Ms. Jencet Montano, Ms. Nora Ragadio of Kuya Allan’s Lechon, Ms. Brengilda Kaminsky of Negosyantes in Edmonton.

Winter Escapade Delegates from Edmonton

Thanking Tim Hortons for your Generosity Thanks Donna Chen, Tim Hortons, Ltd; Stacey Hall, Managing Director; and Sheila Jalandoni, General Manager of Tim Hortons Nisku, Alberta, for sharing your blessings as you donated barrels of Coffee and packages of

www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

Deputy Consul General Zaldy Patron and Ms. Sheila Castillo-Patron, Mr. Resty Reyes and Ms. Teri Reyes of Fly Friendly Travel & Tours, Dr. Nimrod Montano of Great Smile Family Dental and Ms. Jencet Montano, Ms. Nora Ragadio of Kuya Allan’s Lechon, Ms. Brengilda Kaminsky of Negosyantes in Edmonton.

Donuts and Biscuits during the SIMBANG GABI Celebration at St. Theresa Caitholic Church last December 20, 2018.

Better late to express our gratitude late than never!

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

FEBRUARY 2019

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY

A Valentine’s Gala Fundraising Dinner.

“One Heart, One Love for MCN” at Sejong Multicultural Center with Conservative Canadian Senator Hon. Yonah Martin.

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Fly Friendly Travel visits Saskatoon

DJ Mia, Resty Reyes FFT President, Diamond Angelynne of Piggy’s Pub & Grill and Vanessa of Pinoy Channel

Rotary Club of Southeast Edmonton with Ms. Marjorie Newman - UCP MLA Candidate for Glenora and Canadian Senator Yohan Martin Hani Lansangan, Vanessa Ramirez-Sotto, DJ Mia, Jenny Buan of Viahera & Pinoy Channel SK, Raymond Lansangan of KATMU

Relax, breathe, travel and repeat #ajourneybeyondexperience @ Willow Stream Spa

The Honorable Canadian Senator Yohan Martin and Friendly Travel President - Mr. Resty Reyes at the MCN Fundraising Event

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Nora Ragadio, Teri Cubacub Reyes, Mia DM and Charlene Ogalesco

FFT President Resty Reyes - work in action at The Courtyard by Marriott in Saskatoon.

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY

FEBRUARY 2019

Vis-Min holds another successful Sinulog

The Visayas-Mindanao Association of Edmonton organized the 2019 Sinulog last January 19 at the Royal Palace Hall.

Lito Tan, one of the Vis-Min founders, congratulated the members of the organizing committee for the success of the event which is held every year to honor the Sto.Nino.

(Photos by Sol Saquilabon and Moses Billacura)

www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

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

POINTS OF VIEW | BUSINESS

FEBRUARY 2019

Keeping Score is Problematic

W

hile visiting family in the Philippines it is inevitable that relatives will update you with various stories about what’s happening: the gossip, the conflict, the transactions, the entanglements.

Online chats, social media posts, and phone calls only provide a limited insight to what has transpired. If many years have passed since your last visit, it is important to know these updates, to mitigate the feeling of shock and confusion about why family dynamics have changed since the last time.

During the last visit, I just realized the two most problematic statements I’ve ever heard in my adult life.

“Why are you being nice to her, what has she done for you anyway?”

“Why is she acting that way, after all I have done for her?”

Keeping score of “good deeds” and “bad deeds” like this is quite problematic in my opinion.

With regard to the first statement, there are a few relatives with whom I don’t have a close relationship with at the moment. Does it mean that what they have done for us as kids is enough reason to overlook how their current behaviour makes me feel unsafe?

If a relative had spent let’s say, a hundred thousand pesos to feed and send a child to school, is the child then required to return the favour as adults, providing money back up to a certain amount?

As for the second, how does someone evaluate the behaviour of children and teens then? Those who

GENERAL POINT OF VIEW GISELLE GENERAL

gqgeneral@gmail.com

Giselle General came from the cold, mountainous region on the Benguet province, and immigrated to Canada as a teenager in 2007. After completing her Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Alberta, she now dedicates her business training to the nonprofit sector, both in employed and volunteer capacities. She works at the Edmonton Community Legal Centre, which provides free legal help to low-income Edmontonians. She channels her creativity by writing in her personal blog, General Point of View, and has recently published a book of her poems and artwork titled The Humanity of Me.

are likely still learning about what is right or wrong, or are fixated on their own suffering which may be why

they are acting selfishly? I think this comment is what got me the most when this older relative was chatting with me. Kids do stupid, self-centered

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

know is this relative suffered great losses in recent years; and perhaps is still dealing with the financial and emotional fallout of what happened and is simply too depressed to talk to anyone.

I think many times, people take too personally what the other relatives are doing, as if it is a direct act of disrespect or disregard of the generosity they received a long time ago. When what is actually happening is that unrelated current circumstances just push people to act that way.

Sometimes, maybe someone is just too physically ill or just too ashamed to

21

have the initiative to be affectionate or communicative.

For a while now, I have found this way of thinking problematic. I made it clear to my brother that I don’t think this way. I told him many times, that he doesn’t owe me anything. I also told him that if we end up having a disagreement and I started “keeping score” by enumerating all the sacrifices I have done for him in the past, he can call me out for acting like a jerk.

My wish is that the more I help out relatives in the future, that I will be able to continue this mentality and behaviour.

things a lot of the time. Yes, when we were kids, some of those younger cousins were not as friendly, but does that mean that I just snub them now as adults?

Another problem with this is that it does not consider how current suffering and trauma play a role in someone’s current life decisions, even if it seems to dismiss the “grand gestures” that were done a long time ago. I heard a comment about a relative not talking to her in-laws for about a year now. The relative who was not being spoken to complained about how she helped the other relative many decades ago.

She made references to how she helped this other relative start their family – 30 years ago. Well, what I

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POINTS OF VIEW | COMMUNITY | POLITICS

FEBRUARY 2019

Pinoy-owned Sakuragi Japanese Pan-Asian Cuisine opens in Wetaskiwin

By Moses Billacura

WETASKIWIN --- It was just a chance meeting between Chef Juancho Miday and Fernando Sulit who along with his business partners Michael Sotto, Jomar Perez and Marlon Vargas decided to open Sakuragi Japanese Pan-Asian Cuisine restaurant.

“Two years in the making din ito,” said Sulit, who acts as marketing manager of the new restaurant that

formally opened last February 9 at 4714 56 Street, here.

Miday has been a chef in Dubai, Kuwait, India then moved to Wetaskiwin and worked for a local restaurant before meeting Sulit and his partners.

“Kaya sabi ko, sige, simulan natin yan,” said the chef. So Sulit started talking to friends in the Filipino community and agreed to open a restaurant and name it Sakuragi, as all of them are inspired

Father Nilo Macapinlac with Sakuragi restaurant owners and staff during the Chef Juancho Miday (right) with marketing manager grand opening, February 9, in Wetaskwin. (Photo by Moses Billacura) Fernando Sulit at the Sakuragi restaurant, Feb.9, in Wetaskiwin. (Photo by Moses Billacura)

by the Sakuragi anime, a basketball team in Japan that has a “neversay-die” attitude.

“Na inspire kami sa basketball team na yan, na nagsimula, from humble beginnings talaga at they

don’t give up as a team,” said Sulit who looks forward to growing their restaurant by opening other branches.

Father Nilo Macapinlac, who

also writes a column for the Filipino Journal, officiated the blessing of the new restaurant in the presence of Filipino community leaders like Rommel Buriel and Chris Mission.

Edmonton’s Winter Has Finally Arrived With Extremely Cold Temperatures difficult for many people to leave their houses without the risk of catching frostbite or hypothermia. These weather conditions are extremely dangerous, leaving many individuals such as the youth, the elderly, and the homeless vulnerable, so it is JANUEL CEDRICK important to report it to the proper IBASCO authorities if you see someone in need of attention. Moreover, there are many other problems that have Januel Cedrick Ibasco is a proud Filipino-Canadian and is currently a student at the University arisen because of the extreme cold 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 temperatures. For example, ever highly-spirited when playing golf, volleyball, and basketball and loves reading, writing and since about February 4th, 2019, volunteering at church. Jan looks forward to taking up law after his undergraduate degree. there have been hundreds of vehicle Edmonton, Alberta has finally as cold as -42 degrees Celsius and collisions due to slippery roads. reached its peak winter season now even lower with the windchill. With All these collisions not only result in 2019 with temperatures reaching these cold temperatures it has been in thousands of calls for operator

JAN THE MAN’S NOTE

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services, but keep in mind that priority is given to vehicles in most need. There are not enough resources to see to everyone as quickly as possible. To try avoiding this, it is vital to drive at a speed that is adapted to the weather conditions as the posted speed limit is only for ideal driving conditions. We are all in a rush, but driving at a speed adapted to the weather conditions continued on page 23 ►

Here is a picture of a beach, a place we all would like to be in rather than the cold! (my picture from Cancun)

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

FEBRUARY 2019

IMMIGRATION CONSULTANCY | SERVICES | BUSINESS

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

23

Accompanying Children Of Skilled Workers In Canada And Their Eligibility In Applying For A Study Permit From Migration to Immigration MARJORIE CARMONA NEWMAN info@mcncanadaimmigration.com 780-758-2045

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

I

had a consultation with a kababayan who has a skilled work permit and has a minor son who is planning to come to Canada to be with him.

So his question is “Can his son study in Canada? Let us examine the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act under section 30 (2) which states: Minor children (2) Every minor child in Canada , other than a child of a temporary resident not authorized to work or study, is authorized to study at the pre-school, primary or secondary level.

This means that the minor son of a temporary worker (who is authorized to work in Canada) will be authorized to study at the high school level without the need of a study permit. This is further defined in IRCC’s Program Delivery Instructions regarding “Study permits: Guidelines on minor children”.

Is a study permit required? [A30(2)] Minor children already in Canada are authorized to study without a study permit at the pre-school, primary or secondary level if • they are either accompanying parents claiming refugee status or are claimants themselves; • one of their parents (biological or adoptive) is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident;

* when neither parent is physically in Canada.

Minor children intending to study are required to apply for a study permit before entering Canada.

It is very important to know that the minor children of a temporary resident (visitor) who is not authorized to work or study require a study permit to study in Canada.

In Canada, each province or territory defines the age of majority.

Anyone under the age of majority at the time of their arrival in Canada is considered a minor child.

• The age of majority is 18 in Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec and Saskatchewan.

• The age of majority is 19 in British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, the Northwest Territories, Nunavut and the Yukon.

Since the minor son is in the Philippines, he would need to apply for a Study Permit at the Canadian Embassy in Manila, Philippines to be with his father in Canada. He would be exempt from requiring a Letter of Acceptance from the school by virtue of section 219 (2) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.

Applying from Overseas

• one of their parents (biological or adoptive) is authorized to work or study in Canada; this includes temporary residents who are: * work permit holders, * study permit holders, * visitor status holders (e.g., visitor record holders) who are either authorized to work without a permit, as per section 186 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR), or authorized to study without a permit, as per section R188; or From page 22

Edmonton’s Winter Has Finally... makes a huge difference in terms of preventing an accident on the road and allows for easier access to destinations.

As this cold weather continues, I deeply advise everyone to bundle up by wearing gloves, toques/ bonnets, ear muffs, scarves, layers underneath one’s jacket, and proper footwear. With living in Edmonton comes the responsibility of dressing for these cold winter conditions. However, as these cold conditions start to die down, it’s also important to be aware of Edmonton’s changing weather patterns.

The last point I would like to make is to plug your cars in as much as possible for you to be able to drive it the next day. I unfortunately did not plug my car one night and was not able to start it until a couple days after.

Edmonton has become a winter wonderland, so before we can jump into spring, let’s embrace this weather together!

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The study permit exemption for minor children pursuant to subsection 30 (2) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) applies when a minor child is already in Canada.

Visa offices processing temporary residence applications made outside Canada by minor children who want to study in Canada should consider them as students and not as visitors, even when they are accompanying a parent who is authorized to either work or study in Canada. A Study Permit is required, unless they are exempt from requiring one pursuant to section R188.

at info@mcncanadaimmigration.com

rely on the information provided in this column. It is not legal advice. To ensure your interests are protected, retain or formally seek advice from an immigration lawyer or a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant in good standing of ICCRC. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of the lawyers or immigration consultants.

Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Immigration Refugee and Protection Act and Immigration Refugee Protection Regulations.

A word of caution: You should not act or

72nd PAL Interclub returns to Cebu

T

he Philippine Airlines (PAL) Interclub golf team championships return to Cebu City late this month with Manila Southwoods and Canlubang defending their regular and seniors crowns, respectively.

Four courses will be used in the two-week long event with the 33rd edition of the seniors tournament kicking off on Feb. 27 at Alta Vista Golf Club and at Club Filipino de Cebu.

Last year, Canlubang held off Luisita to regain the seniors crown in Bacolod City.

Canlubang collected 573 points to beat Luisita by eight. Del Monte Golf Club was a poor third with 549 points.

The other division champions last year were Cebu Country Club in Founders, Alta Vista in Aviator, Rancho Palos Verdes in Sportswriters and South Bay of Los Angeles in Friendship.

Senior teams are expected to fly in on Feb. 24 for the three-day practice rounds.

The seniors event adopts the Molave scoring system which awards 3 points for par. An even-par score is worth 54 points.

Each team is allowed to field as many as four players per round with the top three scores to count. Each player is limited to two rounds of play.

The 72nd PAL Men’s Interclub, on the other hand, fires off on March 6 at the Cebu Country Club and the Mactan Island Golf Club.

Manila Southwoods overwhelmed the field last year with a record 551 points, 41 points ahead of Luisita. Canlubang placed third with 502 and Del Monte fourth with 469.

Regular teams can field five players per round with the top four scores counting.

The PAL scoring system will be used. A par is worth 2 points which translates to 36 points for players who matched par.

The new golf rules will take effect, according to tournament director Henry Arabelo.

“Hopefully, the new rules will speed up play,” Arabelo said.

Nearly 200 teams are expected to take part in the twin events.

These include squads from the United States, Canada and the Middle East. (pr)

Applying at a Port of Entry (POE) A minor child coming to Canada to study should have applied and obtained a letter of introduction (approval in writing) at a visa office, or be entitled to apply for a study permit upon entry pursuant to section R214.

If they have not done so, and because POE’s are considered “in Canada” for the interpretation of subsection A30(2), officers at a POE may authorize entry of the child as a temporary resident within the visitor class if all the requirements are met (e.g., the accompanying

parent is permitted to work or study in Canada) and if the child is not otherwise inadmissible. The child should be documented on a visitor record. When the child ceases to be considered a minor, an application for a study permit must be submitted if they wish to continue studying.

If you have questions regarding the above article you may contact Marjorie

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24

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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

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

Alight “Turn your face towards the sun Let the shadows fall behind you”

T

his is a line I recently heard from Rihanna’s song, “Towards the Sun.” It made me ponder the presence of sunlight in my life, especially as an Edmontonian.

I think the sunlight is a beautiful dynamic being, but sometimes I forget about its existence.

At times when it shines so brightly, it takes careful consideration to be gentle enough so as not to blind my eyes. When it does so, it feels like a mother’s hug when she squeezes you tightly, with arms loose enough to give you room to breathe. This is the easiest light to take in and easiest air to breathe.

I seek the sun during the winter.

Sometimes, I find it when I run outdoors. Many times, I’ve tried to catch it at the break of dawn, making sure it is met with a greeting. Then, I savour my moments with it until the end of the day when sections of it begin to disappear and it says goodbye.

Sometimes I try to avoid it by pulling the curtains over my bedroom.

Yet it comes back all the same.

I realize that it never truly leaves. Only I say goodbye to it for its presence remains, but where I am determines whether or not I can see it. Though I might forget or am unable to identify it and see it shining down upon the earth, it remains. It still keeps me warm.

It ensures that the conditions on earth allow for life to thrive.

The clouds can be an obstacle, especially when they spread across the sky. It paints the world a duller grey.

But the sun isn’t the only one who shines.

BUSINESS AND TRADE | POINTS OF VIEW

FEBRUARY 2019

International and Local Companies Urged to Join IFEX Philippines 2019 Toronto, Canada – Canadian traders/ buyers and exhibitors are enjoined to sign up for the upcoming IFEX Philippines 2019 on 24-26 May 2019 at the World Trade Center (WTC) in Pasay City. The three-day event welcomes international and local companies to tap the rising global demand for premium and quality food products from different regions across the globe, including North and South America, Europe, East Asia, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Australia and many more.

Twelve different food sectors will be featured in the event, namely (1) seafood and marine products; (2) alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; (3) coffee, herbal teas and cocoa; (4) fresh and processed seafood; (5) fruits and vegetables; (6) grains, cereals and commodities;

(7) herbs and spices; (8) meat and poultry; (9) natural, healthy and organic products; (10) bakery and confectionery; (11) specialty, ethnic and gourmet products; and (12) other allied industries.

With a reputation as an internationally recognized food trade show for Asian food brands and ingredients, IFEX Philippines continues to be the leading export platform for international and local companies to strategically position themselves to have a better leverage with the event’s exhibits, seminars, networking and business-matching activities.

According to Senior Trade Commissioner Maria Roseni Alvero of the Philippine Consulate GeneralToronto (PCG-Toronto) Trade Office, foreign buyers who participate in

IFEX Philippines 2019 can qualify as a Very Important Buyer (VIB) and avail of incentives such as airfare subsidy (with a cap) and hotel accommodation for 2-night stay. For further information, please contact Ms. Roselle Corro of the PCG-Toronto Trade Office via e-mail at toronto@dti.gov.ph or through telephone number at (416) 855 1777, or visit the website of IFEX Philippines at www.ifexphilippines.com.

Sometimes I find the sunlight in other people’s eyes. They peer into my soul and give it a luminescence that glows past sunset.

If darkness exists, then so too does light.

We can illuminate the world for one another. If we radiate kindness, love, and compassion, the clouds become marshmallows. Then, once you run straight into the clouds, you’ll find that they cannot harm you. Instead, they break apart and make way for you.

You’re never alone. The moon, the sun, and other stars continue to surround us.

And, we have one another.

Trade buyers and visitors flocked toward international and local exhibitors in the last edition of IFEX Philippines.

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

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OPINION | CONSUTANCY SERVICES

FEBRUARY 2019

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

China’s quest for world dominion

W

ith the recent participation of the Philippines in China’s “One Belt, One Road” (OBOR) Initiative last November 2018, one cannot fail to wonder: Will it be good for the Philippines or will it fall into China’s “debt-trap diplomacy”, like almost all of the 70 countries that participated and ended up gurgling under an ocean of indebtedness?

To answer the question, one needs to look at what happened to those who participated to date. For lack of space, we can’t cover them all but here are some that’s worth looking at.

It begins with “soft-power diplomacy” where China persuades or attracts other countries to join its OBOR Initiative. It began by using soft-power diplomacy in the 2000s. But it was Chinese President Xi Jinping who put it to work when he assumed office in 2012.

Xi began a worldwide campaign to sell soft power to other countries, particularly to poor and developing countries that were easy to bait with promises of economic progress. Like a 19th century snake oil salesman, Xi tried to sell a product that works like magic. He also started selling the OBOR Initiative, a new Silk Road that would connect -- by land and by sea -- Asia, Middle East, Africa, and Western Europe. OBOR would entail building roads, railway systems, seaports, and other infrastructure.

Amazingly, they sold!

But what those participating countries didn’t realize was that they were falling into China’s “debt trap”, which lures poorer countries by offering “cheap loans” for infrastructure projects. However, it involves certain conditions that greatly favor China, to wit: there is no bidding process, the project will be completed by one of China’s state-owned companies, the workers would be Chinese nationals, cost overruns would be renegotiated (which usually resulted in higher interest rates), there is high-value collateral, and contract disputes are to be arbitrated in China under Chinese laws.

One of the early participants was Sri Lanka. The first project was the Hambantota Port, which initially cost $1.12 billion to build. Other projects followed until Sri Lanka ended up owing a $13-billion debt to Chinese state-owned banks. Pretty soon, it couldn’t repay the loans.

Hardball Diplomacy That’s when China applied “hardball diplomacy,” which demanded economic or political concessions in exchange for debt relief. Sri Lanka was forced to lease the port and 15,000 acres of land around it for a period of 99 years.

Sri Lanka was not the only one that fell into China’s “debttrap diplomacy.” A recent report said that at least 16 countries are vulnerable to China's economic coercion, including Kenya, Pakistan, Zambia, Djibouti, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, Myanmar, Tonga, Micronesia, Vanatu, and the Philippines.

Another country that will soon share in Sri Lanka’s fate is Kenya. If Kenya fails to begin the repayment of

Beijing Summit of Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). The plan called for “stepping up OBOR security cooperation with particular

New Cold War With that as the backdrop, a new Cold War has begun in the Indian Ocean with the informal alliance of the U.S., India, Australia, and Japan (known as the quadrilateral alliance) against China. The stakes are high. More than 60% of the world’s oil shipments pass through the Indian Ocean, mainly from the Middle East and East Africa’s oil fields that are bound for China, Japan and other fuelimporting Asian economies. In addition, 70% of all container traffic passes through the Strait of Malacca, which China would attempt to block in the event of conflict with the quadrilateral alliance.

focus on railways, industrial parks, and major events,” as well as protecting Chinese nationals and Chinese companies, which makes one wonder: Is this China’s blueprint for neocolonialism in Africa?

It is now evident that China’s OBOR Initiative is a creative way to achieve global military power…without firing a shot. Indeed, it is a dream come true for China.

In 1405, the Ming Dynasty’s Emperor Yung Le (Zhu Di) ordered a massive “Treasure Fleet” of 200-300 ships with

Perezcope PERRY DIAZ PerryDiaz@gmail.com

a $2.3 billion loan for Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC), China will seize Kilindini Harbor, the biggest port in East Africa, which is collateral for the Chinese loan. The massive construction loan was the result of Kenya participating in OBOR. But the problem is that the feasibility studies were performed by China, which might have estimated high revenue to be able to service the loan.

This led to fears of Kenya’s ability to repay the loans. Not being able to do so will trigger the seizure of the collateral. Should there be any dispute with the Chinese bank, it will be handled through an arbitration process in China, not in Kenyan courts.

Some of the earlier OBOR projects include the Gwadar Port in Pakistan and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which connect landlocked western China to the Indian Ocean. It was reported that Pakistan’s debt liabilities have risen from $83 billion to $88.9 billion in 2017. It was also reported that Pakistan’s debt would balloon to $100 billion by 2024 of the total investment of $18.5 billion. The interest on the bank loans is around 7% per annum payable in 25 to 40 years, which cost Pakistan around $8 billion per month.

Neocolonialism But what is interesting to note is that China has gained a military footprint in Pakistan, which it can use to counter the presence of the U.S. in the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea. China could also use Gwadar to refuel its submarine fleet; thus, extending its navy’s global reach beyond the South China Sea. And in time of conflict with the U.S. or India, China will have the ability to block the chokepoint at the Strait of Malacca; thus, cutting off the huge U.S. naval forces in the Pacific from getting into the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea. In 2015, China passed a new national security law that provides a legal basis for China to deploy military forces abroad to safeguard its infrastructure projects as well as Chinese expatriates who are working on these projects in Africa under China’s OBOR Initiative. China also published its second Africa policy paper, stating that it would strengthen military exchanges and cooperation such as carrying out joint military training and exercises, as well as helping African countries “enhance their capacity building in national defense and peacekeeping.”

With control over seaports in Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Djibouti, and Myanmar, China will be able to encircle the U.S. strategic base on Diego Garcia in the middle of the Indian Ocean.

In 2018, China released an action plan for 2019 to 2021, following the

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25

28,000 men to sail the “Western Ocean” (Indian Ocean). He dreamt of ruling the seas. Yung Lo also claimed the island of Lusong (now Luzon of the Philippines) and placed it under his empire.

When Yung Lo died in 1424, his successor, Emperor Hongxi, didn’t share his father’s dream. He lost interest in Lusong and dissolved the colonial government. He then banned the famous Admiral Zheng He’s naval voyages. Hongxi died a month later in 1425. In the next six centuries, China had no navy and anyone caught even sailing on the high seas was summarily put to death. Not anymore.

In my column, “Has Chinese colonization begun?” (November 16, 2018), I wrote: “With historical incidents of Chinese colonization of Luzon, and the present-day massive arrival of Chinese nationals assimilating into the various industries in the country, many are concerned that they would soon control the wealth and patrimony of the nation.

“Just like 600 years ago when China claimed and placed Luzon under her empire, is she now in a position to claim the Philippines as her province or vassal state? Has Chinese colonization begun?”

Today, China is sailing again in an attempt to rule the seas…and the world. The question is: Will “Emperor” Xi Jinping succeed where Emperor Yung Lo failed in his quest for world dominion?

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RELIGION | HEALTH TIPS

CONFRONTING OUR SINFULNESS (Part 1) OUR TEXT ROMANS 7:24-25 KJV "O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord…."

The Scripture text we have before us has a wonderful place in this wonderful epistle to the Romans. It stands here at the end of the seventh chapter as the gateway to the eighth.

In the first sixteen verses of the eighth chapter the name of the Holy Spirit is found sixteen times. We have there the description and promise of the life that a child of God can live in the power of the Holy Spirit. This begins in the second verse: "For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death."

Romans 8:2 KJV From this verse, the apostle Paul goes on to speak of the great privileges of the child of God, who is to be led by the Spirit of God. The gateway into all this is the 24th verse of the 7th chapter: "O wretched man that I am!"

There, you have the words of a man who has come to the end of

From a Vantage Point TITO S.VENIDA

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

himself. He has, in the previous verses, described how he had struggled and wrestled in his own power to obey the Holy Law of God, and had failed so miserably. But, in answer to his own question, he now finds the answer and cries out: "I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord."

From there he goes on to speak of what the deliverance is that he has

found. I desire from these wonderful words to describe to you the path by which a man can be led out of the spirit of bondage into the Spirit of liberty. You know how distinctly it is said: "For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear."

Romans 8:15 KJV We are continually warned that this is a great danger to the Christian

life, to go again into bondage. It is for this very reason that I earnestly desire to describe to you the path by which a man can get out of bondage and into the glorious liberty of the children of God. Rather, I intend to describe the man himself.

First, these words are the language of a regenerate man; second, of a powerless man; third, of a despicable man; and fourth, of a man at the threshold of deliverance.

You may notice that I used despicable instead of wretched.

The Greek word for wretched is talaiporos (tal-ah’-ee-po-ros) which means enduring toils and troubles, afflicted, wretched, despicable.

THE APOSTLE PAUL: THE REGENERATE MAN There is much evidence of regeneration from the 17th verse of the 7th chapter on to the 23rd verse. Observe, "Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me” that is the language of a regenerate man, a man who knows that his heart and nature have been renewed, and that sin is now a power in him that is not his.

"I delight in the law of God after

Beauty Resolutions You’ll Keep with Human Nature It’s never too late to make this year right with healthy, glowing skin.

Sticking to your new year's resolutions is like sticking to a new diet - they're only good for two weeks, tops.

This year, make resolutions that you’ll be happy to keep! Reveal your best skin ever with skin resolutions you won’t regret with Human Nature, the Philippines’ largest social enterprise brand of genuinely natural personal care products.

Here are some beauty resolutions that your skin will thank you for: 1. Remove your makeup before hitting the sack. Did you know that leaving your makeup on isn’t just a bad habit? Aside from the risk of eye infection from leftover eyeliner or mascara, the dirt and makeup residue can also lead to clogged pores and breakouts.

Keep a bottle of cleansing oil handy— one that removes makeup while nourishing your skin too. Try Human Nature Sunflower Beauty

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This beauty oil can also double as your facial oil or body moisturizer for top to toe goodness that won’t break your budget.

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Give skin a moisture boost that will leave a soft and supple feel. Switch to the hydrating combo of Human Nature Hydrating Creamy Wash ($12.49, 200ml) and Hydrating Toner ($6.99, 100ml; $12.49, 200ml), made with nutrient-rich moringa-seed oil or malunggay.

You can even try the K-Beauty style seven skin toner method for the ultimate moisture boost!

3. Never skip your moisturizer. If you’ve been skipping moisturizers because of the sticky feel, switch to lightweight moisturizers. Moisturizers help fight signs of premature aging like wrinkles and fine lines by keeping

your skin hydrated. Give your skin a boost of nutrients and antioxidants to keep it glowing and fresh.

Calgary-East NDP chooses Cesar Cala CALGARY – Cesar Cala is the Alberta NDP’s candidate in Calgary-East for the 2019 provincial election.

“I believe in the people of Calgary-East and in their ability to partner with government in making our community an even better place to live, to make a living and to raise families” said Cala.

Cala has spent much of his www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

career giving back to his community, and has worked for the United Way and the Calgary Foundation.

His work has included supporting newcomer neighbourhoods, persons with developmental disabilities, civic engagement and community development. Cala is the first person of Filipino descent to run to be an MLA in southern Alberta.

“Rachel and the NDP care about the Filipino community, from designating June as Philippine Heritage Month, to anti-racism grants for local community organizations, to recognizing and elevating the work of the community to make Filipino a language of study throughout Alberta,” said Cala. “I trust Rachel to fight for the needs of our community.”

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In contrast, Jason Kenney has proposed a $700-million tax cut for the wealthiest one percent and openly advocated for introducing two-tier, American-style health care where only the rich get the care they need.

“I don’t trust Jason Kenney to fight for what matters to families in Calgary,” said Cala. “Rachel has kept Albertans working and protected services, building hundreds of badly needed new schools and upgrading

FEBRUARY 2019 the inward man": that again is the language of a regenerate man. The apostle Paul dares to say when he does evil: "It is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me."

It is of great importance for us to understand this. In the first two great sections of the epistle, the apostle Paul deals with justification and sanctification. In dealing with justification, he lays the foundation of the doctrine in the teaching about sin, not in the singular, but in the plural, sins—the actual transgressions. In the second part of the 5th chapter he begins to deal with sin, not as actual transgression, but as a power.

Just imagine what a loss it would have been to us if we had not this second half of the 7th chapter of the epistle to the Romans, if the apostle Paul had omitted in his teachings this vital question of the sinfulness of the believer.

We would have missed the question we all want answered as to sin in the believer. What is the answer? The regenerate man is me in whom the will has been renewed, and who can say, without wavering: "I delight in the law of God after the inward man."

Amen.

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For press inquiries, contact: Jen Suguitan, Corporate Communications & PR Executive tish.ca@humanheartnature.com | 09065084252 | 784-7700 local 319

existing ones like Forest Lawn High School and healthcare facilities, like the Calgary Cancer Centre.”

“Calgary has a choice to make in 2019 on who they trust to be Premier of Alberta We could choose Kenney who would make deep cuts regardless of who it hurts, or Rachel Notley, who will protect the things families depend on,” Cala said. “To me the choice is clear. I trust Rachel to fight for families in Calgary.” (pr)

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marriage is measured by more than just years- It’s measured by living, by laughter, and tears... by good times, contentment, and dreams that come true that love brings you through.

A marriage is measured by lessons you’ve learned, examples you’ve set, and respect you have earned.

Today’s A day to remember how it all happened in the first place- because two of us fell in love and make up our lives together.

Today’s A day we celebrate the love we’ve built.

May our God will continue-to bless our hearts with deepest faith in our lives and with hope in the future that our marriage will last forever.

To my gorgeous wife...Jencet, Happy Wedding Anniversary my love and Happy Valentine’s Day!

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27th BLISSFUL MARRIAGE BOND Doctor Rod and Jencet Montano

FilipinaAlbertans to compete in international pageants

By Moses Billacura

Madeahl Yamyamin of Calgary and Charlene Ogalesco of Wetaskiwin are competing in separate “beauty and brains” competitions this year.

Yamyamin is entered in the Mrs.Woman of the Universe event on June 16-21 in Las Vegas while Ogalesco is joining the Miss Filipina International on July 27 in Los Angeles.

“I’m really honored to represent Canada to the Mrs.Woman of the Universe competition,” said Yamyamin.

Ogalesco, who graced the Himig Pinoy 101.7 FM radio show, said competitors will be coming from France, Zambia, Germany and other countries. She will be in LA in April to fine tune her training.

Charlene Ogalesco of Wetaskiwin is competing in the Miss Filipina International in July in Los Angeles.

(Contributed photo)

Madeahl Yamyamin of Calgary will represent Canada to the Mrs.Woman Universe pageant in June in Las Vegas.

(Contributed photo) All photos and articles available online. Follow us

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GREETINGS | ASTROLOGY | COMMUNITY

FEBRUARY 2019

The Testimony of a Blessed Life 60th Year being surrounded by a loving family and circle of friends is a blessing. HAPPY LIFE’S CELEBRATION ATE, TITA, MAMA, LOLA, GINANG LITA TUSCANO!

WHEATON HONDA TEAM DELIVERS FCSA 36th Annual This Team has not just sold and delivered cars; but rather, exemplary services to the Filipino Community.

Valentine’s Day Celebration This Wheaton Honda Team acted as the ambassador of goodwill as they’ve co-sponsored the Congress of the Philippine Associations of Alberta, Philippine Sports Associations, Fly Friendly Travel andTours, Himig Pinoy 101.7 World FM, and Alberta Filipino Journal during the SIMBANG GABI CELEBRATION last December 20, 2018 at the St. Theresa Catholic Church in Millwoods, Edmonton.

Her Majesty Queen of Hearts 2019 Letty Bonda escorted by husband Tony Bonda last Saturday February 9, 2019 at the Santa Maria Goretti Centre in Edmonton, Alberta. It started with the Coronation and Investiture. The offering of the Sash by the Servus Credit Union Representatives. The Trophy given

by Rosalinda Santarina and Joyce Dizon presented by Noreen Berkes and Josette Salgado. Bouquet by Joyce Dizon and special bouquet

by Letty’s 3 sons, Jonathan, Alvin and Lawrence Bonda. Decorations of the hall headed by AugustSune.

Photographer Cesar Manuntag and Marino Hidalgo of Dancing Buddies.

The event was organized by all of the FSCA members headed by their president Lucy Manuntag with Rosemarie Lampa and Mike Cartasamo as emcees.

With the participation of Cultural dance “Pandango Rinconada” led by Solly Lampa. The dance of Love “Amore” by Sal & Val Lampa.

“Lawiswis Kawayan” by 4 couples.

The line dancing performed by Nida Juanillo and Danny Garcia and their line dancing members.

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T.G.I.F! Films

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ilipino moviegoers in Edmonton were overjoyed with the world tour screening of the musical film, Ang Larawan, on December 7 and 9 of 2018. The musical film which was based on Nick Joaquin’s play A Portrait of the Artist as Filipino, achieved several feats: seven awards at the Film Academy of the Philippines Luna Awards, four awards at the Urduja Film Festival and a nomination for Best Original Film Score at the Asia Pacific Screen Awards (APSA). APSA is a regional body that honors “cinematic excellence from 70 countries. The composer for Ang Larawan, Maestro Ryan Cayabyab, known as Mr. C., has been awarded National Artist for Music in October 2018.

The star-studded film continued to receive recognition from awardgiving bodies. It was also screened at the prestigious Tokyo International Film Festival, Udine Far East Film Festival in Italy and the Belgium Arts Festival. Ang Larawan’s world tour was in full swing with the 2 screenings in Edmonton brought

by Artist House Studio in cooperation with the Filipino-Canadian Saranay Association at the historic Garneau Theatre of Metro Cinema.

Hundreds of people were thrilled after watching the award-winning movie and many asked when the next movie would be coming to Edmonton. People gathered in the lobby after watching the movie to share their thoughts, feelings, and the effect the movie had on them.

They gushed about how it reminded them of home, with realistic depictions of many facets of life. The movie made the audience feel like they were characters in the musical, transported into another era.

Another exciting activity the moviegoers experienced was learning about the products exhibited by the valued sponsors of the event. The movie screening in December celebrated the spirit of Christmas and was the perfect time to showcase Filipino products during the event, promoting and patronizing Filipino businesses and services prior to the screening. Artist House Studio managed to promote the sponsors whether they were small or big business by showing the promo ads and commercials on the big screen.

The promotion provided to Filipino entrepreneurs through the pre-show of a theatre in Edmonton is unprecedented.

With the resounding success of the screenings of Ang Larawan in Edmonton, Artist House Studio will be bringing Filipino movies to the silver screen on a regular basis. For years, those of us living in Edmonton have only been able to watch Filipino movies from home using a streaming service where the shows were often not the best quality.

Being away from home, our kababayans and the Filipino youth are often looking for ways to connect to our roots. Now, Metro Cinema’s Garneau Theater will serve as a venue in which everyone will be able to watch entertaining and thought-provoking Filipino movies with caliber and substance in stunning high

definition format!

This regular film screening will be branded as T.G.I.F! (Thank God It’s… Filipino!)

Films. The objective of T.G.I.F. is not only to entertain the Filipino people through the screenings of independent and mainstream Filipino films but to also raise awareness on

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social and political issues through film while promoting the diversity of the Filipino film industry. The screening of Filipino movies will also be a medium to help keep the arts and culture of the Filipino spirit alive in Edmonton. T.G.I.F! isn’t just for Filipinos though. Anyone who enjoys quality foreign

films is invited to attend as all movies will be shown with English subtitles.

T.G.I.F. will have its premiere showing at 3:30pm on March 31, 2019 at the Garneau theatre. Stay tuned to HIMIG PINOY every weekday at 5 PM on 101.7 World FM, as well as social media for updates on all future releases.

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FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT | ENTERTAINMENT

FEBRUARY 2019

Resources on Budgeting and Financial Literacy

By Giselle General

H

andling our money is a very important skill to ensure a life that is productive, safe, prosperous and satisfying. Money is a limited resource that is needed to meet many needs, and having the skills to manage it well, or knowing where to go for financial troubles can help make these challenges more manageable. Here are some resources that can help with various financial challenges in one’s life.

Budgeting Software and Templates 1. Mint: Mint is a budgeting app that was made by the same company who made Quickbooks and Turbotax.

You can purchase the free version, which can help you set up a budget for each category and track it either on your computer or phone. You can even subscribe to email reminders to help you with paying bills on time. https://www.mint.com/ 2. Your Bank’s Online Banking App: An underestimated but readily available tool is the online banking website app for your bank. Some have a personal budgeting tool that can help categorize all the financial transactions every month, to help you determine whether you are spending too much on one type of item without realizing it.

Online Resources for Money

Management Skills 1. The Financial Diet: This is a website and a YouTube series with

content that caters to the young adult population. Content touches on practical but important aspects

of being financially responsible such as using apps, automating savings, spending habits on poor quality items or too much restaurant food, and making investing less intimidating. https://thefinancialdiet.com/ 2. The Money Project: On their website there are handy tools such as an online calculator, tip sheets, as well as resources to help parents and guardians educate their younger family members about being financially organized. There is also a section on funding one’s education, from scholarship and bursary resources to help with this large but important expense. https://themoneyproject.ca/ Help for when in Debt or Financial Crisis 1. Money Mentors: This program offers confidential services to help with financial issues such as overwhelming debt. They have a unique program called The Orderly Payment of Debts (OPD) which is an established debt consolidation repayment program.

They offer help online as well as in their office in Edmonton. The website is https://moneymentors.ca/ and their phone number is 1-888-294-0076.

2. Credit Counseling Centre: This is a non-profit organization that provides both in-person and online services for debt repayment when having trouble paying all your creditors, as well as other services that can help get your finances in order. Their website is https://www.nomoredebts.org/ and the phone number is 1-888-527-8999.

3. You Can Benefit: This website is a one-stop resource to see what types of government subsidies you and your family can qualify for based on your circumstances, family size, etc. https:// youcanbenefit.edmonton.ca/home While this is in no way an exhaustive list, the goal is to encourage seeking information and assistance for any type of challenge, no matter how big or small, how common or not. For any readers who are not directly served by the area where the outlined organizations are listed, it is likely that equivalents are available by searching the topic and adding the name of your location.

Happy Golden Year Annie Chua!

Your energy while serving the Community is quite commendable. Not everybody has acquired such a positive attitude. We salute you!

- February 14, 2019 www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

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BUSINESS

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BUSINESS

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