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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL JANUARY 2020
THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA
JANUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL
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Editor's Note | Business | AFJ Staff
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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL JANUARY 2020
What's inside: A reader's guide Editor’s Corner 4 Sports Journal 5 Just Listen 6 Hindi Dapat Pagtakhan 7 General Point of View 8 Viewpoint 10 Migrant's Voices 13 Filipinavigation 19 From Migration to Immigration 20 Artospective 22
Perezcope 23 Through a Teenager’s Eyes 23 Byahe ni Kat 24 Sore Truth 24 Engineer In Action 25 From A Vantage Point 26 Brain Twisters 26 Radyo Sa Dyaryo 28 Make Our Daily Gospel Reading Trending 29 Jan The Man’s Note 29
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
EDITOR’S CORNER
Lito Mendoza Velasco Editor-in-Chief / Associate Publisher 780-655-5126 editor@albertafilipinojournal.com
Lito Mendoza Velasco
FINE IS NOT FINE!
L
ast June 4, 2019, an Edmonton Traffic Officer caught me holding my phone while waiting in congested traffic by Groat Road, resulting in me being ticketed for the amount of $287.00. Remember, failure to pay this on time will accumulate great interests. I was tempted to use my cellphone in order to get in touch
with someone I was going to meet. It was an important appointment that I had to get to, but I ran out of time due to the traffic jam caused by the Groat Road Bridge renovation. City of Edmonton Traffic Division: Is this reasonable? Are you implementing a reasonable law or an ordinance? Are you charging
Melanie Rose Atizado Angeles Administrator / Office Manager Sales & Advertising 780-993-5503 albertafilipinojournal79@gmail.com
whoever holds a cellphone even during very heavy traffic conditions? Are you depriving us of our right to communicate with the person across the line, with whom we’ve set an important appointment? Are you charging for the sake of charging? Is it fair to impose an unreasonable fine during a reasonable situation (that is, heavy traffic due to the construction of the city’s bridge)? Do your traffic officers have no mercy when charging us that amount? Doesn't he realize that the $287.00 can instead be spent on a few sacks of rice; several pounds of meat, fish, and vegetables; and even a few gallons of gas? Can you not instruct your traffic officers to be friendly and considerate when in the line of duty? Do you expect me to say: “Okay, fine!”
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Lianne Angeles Proofreader l Contributing Writer Melanie C. Gomez Website / Graphic Designer Photographers/Videographer: Moses Billacura, Noli Granado, Dario Juanillo Angeline Escano Columnists: Marjorie Carmona-Newman, Tito S. Venida Ida Beltran-Lucila, Katrina Marielle U. Cereno Kristian Cereno, Marco Luciano, Moses Billacura Mervin Mendoza Cereno, Nicky Gocuan Giselle General, Riana Torrejon, Hermo Pagtakhan Januel Cedrick Ibasco, Fr. Jhack Diaz Bing J. Jaleco 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.
THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA
Business | Sports
JANUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL
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Man Shek TSO LLB, LLM Address : 201 - 3476 93 Street NW Edmonton AB T6E 6A4 F R E E CONSULTATION Phone : 780-909-6038 / 780-951-3982 We provide English, Cantonese & Mandarin
S-SABC starts, Crosstown Auto-PSA wrap up another successful league, Liga Maharlika All-Filipino list-up on SPORTS JOURNAL
Moses Billacura mo.sports@gmail.com Moses Billacura was a sports correspondent for national newspapers in the Philippines since 1992 and served as sports editor and columnist for a community paper before moving to Canada in 2010. He loves photography, manages pinoyedmontonnews.com and cheers for the Edmonton Oilers.
I
've been in communication with Dominic Narbonita, one of the organizers of the Servus-St.Albert Ballers Club (S-SABC), since last month who was kind enough to provide us information about their league. Too bad, a bad weather always discourages me to drive 30 minutes going to the venue. Thanks to Facebook, you can always find information. So, the S-SABC has seven teams competing this year with the Knights and the Net Rippers scoring victories on opening day of the "Home League 2K20" last January 11 at the St.Albert Catholic High School. The Knights drew first blood by spilling the Draft Kings, 57-50 and the Net Rippers stopped the Hoopsters in the second game, 68-58. Good start! And to spice up the opening day, they organized a three-point shooting contest. Manuel Alberto topped the
competition with Daltrey Berdon finishing second and Ethan Ignacio landing at third place. It's always heart-warming to know that our fellow Kababayans in Alberta Province can find the time to organize sports leagues. I noticed that there are new Pinoy basketball tournaments being organized in the province. And that is really very good. The more leagues, the merrier, right? Last December, they had a successful tournament with Morinville winning the championship game by besting the efforts of the Batangas Pride, 85-71. NTMD8 placed third and Yeg Ballers landed at fourth place. Lemuel Baui, Nico Yola, Ace Guaniezo, Ian Silvestre and Mike Reyes were named in the Mythical Five with Reyes emerging as league MVP and Baui as final's MVP. Looks like high-flying Baui is really back to his winning form after suffering a knee injury that sidelined him for a year.
Bakks Santos was named best coach and NTMD8 won the team's best uniform award. Other awards were also given to individual winners. Aside from Dominic, Richard Betila, Lance Narbonita, JayR Carrasca, Kurt Abarientos, Ian Mayordomo, Bakks Santos and Rhex Hilario are working closely together to help run the league. I hope that S-SABC will grow as the years go by from just seven teams to probably having 30 or even 60 teams because more participating teams attract corporate sponsors. With corporate sponsors, that would make the league sustainable for years. Congratulations S-SABC and good luck! *** Congratulations to Crosstown Auto Centre and the Philippine Sports Association Edmonton for another successful season which wrapped up Jan.11 at the Archbishop Romero gym. Crossstown Auto Centre dealer-
principal Joe Medina and PSA president Gary Perpetua awarded the trophies and medals to the winners. *** Organizers of Liga Maharlika's 1st Season Basketball League have opened their doors to participants this year. Lead organizer Jonas Iral said they have limited players to up to 5'11" or 186 cm and below in height this year. Registration fee is $900 only, he said. Interested teams can call (780) 863-4098 for more information. *** To members of the Filipino sports community, if you have events, we welcome all your information and you can email it to mocolumnist@ albertafilipinojournal.com. Maraming salamat po at happy New Year sa lahat!
Manny settles for double-double as MP Team trounces Edmonton
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dmonton, Canada—Manny Pacquiao settled for a doubledouble as the MP Team subdued the Edmonton All-Stars, 101-91 in the windup of the Chooksto-Go/MPBL Canada Invasion, December 28, at Edmonton Expo Center. The MPBL Founder and CEO wound up with 33 points, including back-to-back triples that quelled Edmonton’s final rally, and 10 rebounds to go with seven assists and two steals that nearly duplicated his 31-point, 10-rebound, 11-assist effort in a 116-99 victory over Team Casey Calgary on December 27. Playing without relief to satisfy the longing of the crowd, Senator Pacquiao was ably supported by younger brother Congressman Bobby, who accounted for 26 points and four rebounds in the third and last exhibition game. With MP Team ahead, 83-67, Edmonton sprung to life with 11 straight points, the last eight by CJ Liwanag, to threaten at 83-78 with still 6 minutes and 35 seconds left. Batangas Athletics center Jhaymo Eguilos, however, completed a three-point play and Pacquiao, the eight-division boxing world champion who’s passionate about basketball, knocked in the triples to
restore order, 94-78, less than five minutes left. Davao Occidental Tigers star Mark Yee missed his usual doubledouble with nine points, 15 rebounds and two steals while Eguilos finished with eight points for MPT, which also got seven points and five rebounds from Bicol Volcanoes’ Chris Lalata. Other members of MPT, which was coached by Cong. Dong Gonzales, owner of the Pampanga Giant Lanterns, and assisted by MPBL Deputy Commissioner Zaldy Realubit, were Paolo Hubalde (Valenzuela
Classic), Jeff Viernes (Batangas), Michael Juico (Pampanga), Aris Dionisio (Manila Stars) and Gerald Anderson (Imus Bandera). Completing the team were MPBL Commissioner Kenneth Duremdes, Operations Head Emmer Oreta and panelists Christian Luanzon, Martin Antonio and Rodney Santos. In the opener, Anderson played the hero’s role as Imus Bandera Luxxe Slim thwarted Wysman Storm,89-88, in overtime. Anderson scored the game’s last four points, including the winning spinning layup, as the Bandera clawed
Manny Pacquiao finds himself unguarded and fires another three-point shot in this bit of action in the 2019 Chooks-to-Go/MPBL Canada Invasion, Dec.28, at the Edmonton Expo Centre.
Bobby Pacquiao on a fastbreak play as MPBL commissioner Kenneth Duremdes (No.19) and actor Gerald Anderson (No.3) run to provide the support in the 2019 Chooks-to-Go/ MPBL Canada Invasion, Dec.28, at the Edmonton Expo Centre.
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their way back from a 45-21 deficit and seized control at 73-66, on a triple by Anderson, who ended up with 14 points. Imus was ahead, 79-77, entering the homestretch but Wysom’s Stefan Favis drilled in a jumper with 1.5 seconds left to force overtime.
Zamboanga Family’s Brand Sardines, behind the guns of Alvin Pasaol and Anton Asistio, coasted to a 108-101 victory over Edmonton Team 2 in the second game. Zamboanga beat Imus Bandera, 88-72, in an official game of the Lakan Season on Friday.(MPBL)
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Opinion | Business
ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL JANUARY 2020
Insurance Rate Hike Will Hurt Albertans! JUST LISTEN
C We, at the Congress of the Philippine Associations of Alberta and the entire Filipino community, despite of the calamities the Philippines is facing, would still like to express our sympathy to the ignorant bombing victims as well as the plane crash victims in Iran, forest fire in Australia, and other man-made and natural disasters’ victims all over the world! Let’s all keep going!
anada is a great country because it welcomes immigrants from all over the world. When immigrants are asked to choose where they want to live in Canada, a lot of people pick Toronto or Vancouver. Seldom will they pick Alberta, because it is very cold in this province and just a few days back, it was the coldest place on the planet. However, during the Oil Boom there were many jobs in Alberta so people from across the nation had to move to the province even though they do not like the weather because this was where the opportunity was. This is the reason for the influx of immigrants and temporary foreign workers in the province. But today, Alberta is a Province
that is lost in the shuffle. Its Capital City, Edmonton, has the highest unemployment rate in Canada. Calgary’s Commercial Spaces are mostly empty. Those who moved here have moved back or migrated to another country. This once oil rich province is suffering heavily because oil prices went down and its hope to build a pipeline that will bring its products out to the global market was blocked by the courts. Recent developments look positive as the Trans Mountain Pipeline is now on its way to being built but this is not an overnight thing that can turn the economy around. The economic downturn started in 2008 and this recession is still ongoing and on its 12th year. Everyone was upbeat when
Nicky Gocuan, PMAA ngocuan@yahoo.com As a journalist with over 14 years of experience, I have covered different events from rallies on the street, entertainment and international sports events like the Asian Games. My favorite pastime is singing. I have always believed that life would be boring without music.
Conservative Leader Jason Kenney was elected as the new Premier of the province. Kenney symbolized hope for change to turn things around and make life better for every Albertan. Alberta is a good place to live in because it only has 5% GST compared to other provinces with higher taxes. But recent news does not make Alberta a better place to live in. Apart from the very cold climate, the cost of living has drastically crawled up. Look at the cost of food ten years ago, 5 years ago and then today. How much has it gone up? To add to the burden, the Provincial Carbon Tax that Kenney promised to get rid of once got elected will be replaced by a Federal Carbon Tax that the Premier has no control of. And it does not end there. Insurance rates are going up in the province from 10% to 30%. Car insurance rates and Condo Insurance are going up because the UCP Government has lifted the cap of 5% established by the NDP. To be fair to the Kenney government, they say that even if they lifted the cap, rate hikes still need to be approved by the Automobile Insurance Rate Board. Insurance Companies say they are losing money. The AIRB has approved the rate increase. What do you think? Are the insurance companies losing money? With the current economic situation in the province, the increases in insurance premiums are akin to pushing a dead animal off a cliff. Because how can Albertans afford a higher insurance rate when the province is still in recession? There are no jobs and the cost of living continues to rise. 10 to 30% is a lot. What I am positive about is that no one in Alberta welcomes this new insurance hike and this will hurt every household. My humble opinion would be to split the increase into 3 years or stagger it so it is not so bad. How about you? What do you think? Feel free to send us your comments and suggestions on what the insurance companies or the province should do. Our email is albertafilipinojournal@ gmail.com www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com
THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA
Points of View | Business
JANUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL
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“The true value of any inspirational tale lies not in its veracity (or lack thereof) but in its ability to move those who read it to improve some facet of themselves.”
Seeing "God's perfection" from the Story of a Disabled Boy and Baseball!
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t’s early Sunday morning and I just got home from my funfilled Evening of Karaoke and I was about ready to go to bed when I decided to just check my E-Mails and Messages. I came upon this Story shared by one of my U.P. Vanguard Brods, a Fellow Caviteno, Engr. Ato de Leon. I know the story below is a bit long. I was tired and sleepy and unsure if I wanted to read it that morning. But I'm glad I did. Take the 4 minutes to read this true story about an extraordinary person named Shay and the baseball team he played on for just two innings. This story puts Life, Nature and God’s Perfection in perspective! At a fundraising dinner for a school that serves children with learning disabilities, the father of one of the students delivered a speech that would never be forgotten by all who attended. After extolling the school and its dedicated staff, he offered a question: 'When not interfered with by outside influences, everything nature does is done with perfection. Yet my son, Shay, cannot learn things as other children do. He cannot understand things as other children do. Where is the natural order of things in my son?' The audience was stilled by the query. The father continued. 'I believe that when a child like Shay, who was mentally and physically disabled comes into the world, an opportunity to realize true human nature presents itself, and it comes in the way other people treat that child.'
HUWAG PAGTAKHAN (Don’t wonder)
Hermo Toribio Reyes Pagtakhan hermopagtakhanlaw@ hotmail.com Cell: (780) 905-9288 (Hermo Toribio Reyes Pagtakhan of Edmonton, Alberta is a Lawyer who practised for more than 25 years in the Philippines and in Alberta and an Index Options Trader in Wall Street. He is currently a Family Counselor with Arbor Memorial Gardens whom he joined in 2013. In 2005 He had his Epiphany and metamorphosed into a Servant Leader and has since been sharing his Insights and Experiences for the Benefit of those who may need it and whomever may find it useful). “I aspire to inspire before I expire! My Talent is God’s Gift to me. What I do with it is my Gift back to God. Yes, I know I am not Perfect. I also know I am a persistent Sinner who is struggling every day to find my Way to Holiness. I VOW to USE my TALENT to be a WITNESS for HIM and to USE IT for HIS GLORY! God bless all!”
Then he told the following story: Shay and I had walked past a park where some boys Shay knew were playing baseball. Shay asked, 'Do you think they'll let me play?' I knew that most of the boys would not want someone like Shay on their team, but as a father I also understood that if my son were allowed to play, it would give him a much-needed sense of belonging and some confidence to be accepted by others in spite of his handicaps. I approached one of the boys on the field and asked (not expecting much) if Shay could play. The boy looked around for guidance and said, 'We're losing by six runs and the game is in the eighth inning. I guess he can be on our team and we'll try to put him in to bat in the ninth inning..' Shay struggled over to the team's bench and, with a broad smile, put on a team shirt.. I watched with a small tear in my eye and warmth in my heart. The boys saw my joy at my son being accepted. In the bottom of the eighth inning, Shay's team scored a few runs but was still behind by three. In top of the ninth inning, Shay put on a glove and played in the right field. Even though no hits came his way, he was obviously ecstatic just to be in the game and on the field, grinning from ear to ear as I waved to him from the stands. In the bottom of the ninth inning, Shay's team scored again. Now, with two outs and the bases loaded, the potential winning run was on base and Shay was scheduled to be next at bat. At this juncture, do they let Shay bat and give away their chance to win the game? Surprisingly, Shay was given the bat. Everyone knew that a hit
was all but impossible because Shay didn't even know how to hold the bat properly, much less connect with the ball. However, as Shay stepped up to the plate, the pitcher, recognizing that the other team was putting winning aside for this moment in Shay's life, moved in a few steps to lob the ball in softly so Shay could at least make contact. The first pitch came and Shay swung clumsily and missed. The pitcher again took a few steps forward to toss the ball softly towards Shay. As the pitch came in, Shay swung at the ball and hit a slow ground ball right back to the pitcher. The game would now be over. The pitcher picked up the soft grounder and could have easily thrown the ball to the first baseman. Shay would have been out and that would have been the end of the game. Instead, the pitcher threw the ball right over the first baseman's head, out of reach of all team mates. Everyone from the stands and both teams started yelling, 'Shay, run to first! Never in his life had Shay ever run that far, but he made it to first base. He scampered down the baseline, wide-eyed and startled. Everyone yelled, 'Run to second, run to second!' Catching his breath, Shay awkwardly ran towards second, gleaming and struggling to make it to the base. By time Shay rounded towards second base, the right fielder had the ball. The smallest guy on their team who now had
his first chance to be the hero for his team. He could have thrown the ball to the second-baseman for the tag, but he understood the pitcher's intentions so he, too, intentionally threw the ball high and far over the third-baseman's head. Shay ran toward third base deliriously as the runners ahead of him circled the bases toward home. All were screaming, 'Shay, Shay, Shay, all the Way Shay' Shay reached third base because the opposing shortstop ran to help him by turning him in the direction of third base, and shouted, 'Run to third! As Shay rounded third, the boys from both teams, and the spectators, were on their feet screaming, 'Shay, run home! Run home!' Shay ran to home, stepped on the plate, and was cheered as the hero who hit the grand slam and won the game for his team. 'With tears rolling down my face, I was overwhelmed how the boys from both teams helped bring a piece of true love and humanity into this world and to my son Shay. Shay didn't make it to another summer. He died that winter, having never forgotten being the hero and making me so happy, and coming home and seeing his Mother tearfully embrace her little hero of the day! That day," said the father softly with tears now rolling down his face, "those 18 boys reached their level of God's perfection."
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Points of View | Philippine Government
ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL JANUARY 2020
The Gift of a Peaceful Home
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ift giving has become more challenging for me over the years, especially since I try hard to avoid mindless spending. With this in mind, what I have done over the years as my brother is a grown up now, is I write him a heartfelt card, put it in an envelope and put in some cash. The end of 2019 is particularly special, not only because it’s Christmas season but because my brother finished his post-secondary program. As being the only older member of the family left, the Mama and Papa inside of me felt really happy and compelled to somehow find ‘grandiose gift’ fitting for the occasion. I still don’t know what this gift if supposed to be. Over Christmas dinner, my husband and I asked my brother over dinner if he is happy with his living situation with us. Like in previous years when we asked this question, he said with enthusiasm “Oh yes! It’s so peaceful here!” To my relief, he seems happy with our situation at home. That’s when it dawned on me, that having a home that is peaceful, that serves as a genuine resting place after a stressful day
GENERAL POINT OF VIEW
at work or school, is something to be cherished. Given our previous experiences living in other homes, a peaceful one is not always there. What does that look like? I think there are a few factors that can help define it. The things you hear. Of course, there is no such thing as a relationship without conflict. It’s also normal to expect that people have disagreements for many reasons, some for small things such as forgetting to turn off the light from the kitchen, or a couple having an argument about something serious. That being said, frequent sarcastic remarks and verbal fights that you can overhear from the main floor living room all the way to the basement, creates an atmosphere that is far from peaceful. Hearing arguments through your bedroom wall about important matters can be very unsettling. The things you see. I try not to be too touchy-feely with my husband when we are in the common places in our home. But we do flirt, banter, and check in on each other with care and attention. I think, or hope, that by being happy and content as a couple, that there is no reason to use my brother as an outlet of my
anger. I suppose there is truth to the adage “happy wife, happy life”. When my brother does talk to me, I’m ready to listen attentively and support wholeheartedly. How things are managed. As kids with precarious home situations, the uncertainty is palpable. We worry about living in this same house next year, or even in six months from now. Our living situation constantly changed drastically with limited input or warning from us. The question of who and how will we be sheltered, is a dark cloud that loomed in our minds constantly growing up. The fact that now, my husband and I own our home, that we diligently maintain and improve it, that we discuss long
term goals as a couple, I think all of these made my brother feel sure that things are stable right now, and that we are well-prepared to deal with emergencies if they do occur. A peaceful home is something I’m more than happy to not only provide, but to maintain all day everyday. I think for many of us, the primary adult in a home, whether as the parent, or the homeowner, or the oldest one among roommates, this is underrated but definitely important. How we behave impacts the rest of the residents in our home, and by being diligent, considerate and actively caring for ourselves, the atmosphere of a peaceful home will benefit everyone who lives under it.
Deputy Consul General. A career diplomat, he holds the rank of Chief of Mission Class II. CONTACTING THE PHILIPPINE CONSULAR OFFICE MADE-EASY Prior to his posting in Calgary, In our conversation with the Philippine Consul General Zaldy Patron, it was agreed that starting January he was the Executive Director of the 2020, the Alberta Filipino Journal is authorized to closely work with their office in Calgary by disseminating DFA-OFFICE of ASEAN Affairs vital information through the Column entitled PHILIPPINE CONSULAR INFO SERIES. from 2015 to 2018 where he got heavily involved in the Philippines’ This aims to facilitate and make the Filipino Community aware about the services being offered by this office. Chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 2017. He helped manage the Philippines’ relations in ASEAN and he was part of the various Philippine delegations to the ASEAN Summits, ASEAN Ministerial Meetings and ASEAN Senior Officials’ Meetings. He also served as Senior Assistant to the Philippine Representative to the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR). From November 2014 to June 2015, he was a Senior Special Assistant in the Office of the Director General for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) National Organizing Council under the Office of the President. His other assignments in the DFA included being a Director We are equal to all tasks, are VISION for Institutional Relations and The Philippine Consulate General responsive to the needs of the for Functional Cooperation in public we serve and deliver services in Calgary is an organization of DFA-ASEAN from 2005 to 2008. competent, dedicated and highly- effectively, efficiently and in the During various years, he also served motivated personnel committed to best possible way. as Special Assistant in the Office of True professionals, we live working effectively and efficiently, the Undersecretary for Migrant as best as they can, for the benefit of by the principles of excellence, Workers Affairs, Principal Assistant Filipinos in Alberta and Saskatchewan integrity and patriotism, and strive in the Office of Asian and Asian and and the furtherance of relations for nothing less. Pacific Affairs, Acting Director in between the Philippines and Canada. the Office of Protocol, and Principal The Philippine Consulate MISSION Assistant in the Office of Policy General bears in mind, at all times, To advance the interest of the Planning and Coordination. the primacy of the pursuit of the Philippines and the Filipino people Consul General His previous foreign assignments national interest among its goals in Alberta and Saskatchewan Zaldy Patron were in the Philippine Consulate and objectives, and, the promotion To promote the friendly relations Consul General Zaldy B. Patron General in New York, U.S.A. from and protection of the rights and between the Philippines and Canada assumed his position on 1 July 2008 to 2014 as Consul then Deputy well-being of Filipinos in Canada. and their peoples. 2019. Prior to this appointment, Consul General, in the Philippine Consul General Patron was PCG’s Embassy in Brasilia as Second
Secretary and Consul from 2002 to 2005, and in the Philippine Embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia as Third Secretary and Vice Consul from 1999 to 2002. He was a participant in the U.S. State Department’s International Visitor Leadership Program on “U.S. Foreign Policy in the ASEAN Framework” held in September 2007, and the Clingendael Institute’s “Course on Diplomacy and Regional Cooperation for ASEAN Countries and Secretariat” held in The Hague, Netherlands in November 2016. In December 1999, the Directorate General for Immigration of the Republic of Indonesia gave a Plaque of Appreciation to then Vice Consul Patron for helping Indonesian immigration authorities arrest a human smuggling syndicate sending illegal foreign nationals to various countries, including Philippines. In August 2007, the Office of the President conferred him the Gawad Mabini Award (Rank of Dakilang Kasugo) for his performance as Head of the Substantive Committee for the Philippine hosting of the 40th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting and Related Meetings in Manila. In 2008, he was conferred the University of the Philippines Los Baños Distinguished Alumni Award. In March 2013, the Pasig Catholic College (PCC), where he took his high school education, chose him as one of the first recipients of the PCC Centennial Outstanding Alumni Award. He graduated from the University of the Philippines Los Baños with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Economics and earned his Master in Business Administration degree from the Ateneo de Manila University Graduate School of Business.
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.
Philippine Consular Info Series.
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THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA
Editorial | Philippine News
JANUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL
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BATAS NG KALIKASAN: Ang Pagbabalanse nito. By Lito Velasco
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a pagkakataon ng mga hindi inaasahang sakuna at kalamidad, meron agad tayong sinisisi! Maaaring ito ay ang kawalan ng pakialam ng bawat-isa sa lipunan, mga pulitikong ang iniisip ay kung paano mananalo sa susunod na halalan, ang kakulangan ng suporta ng gobyerno sa mamamayan, at ang nakakarimarin, ay ang pagpaparusa na daw ng Diyos sa mga nabanggit na kadahilanan. May dapat nga bang sisihin? WALA! Dahil walang sinuman ang may kontrol sa Batas ng Kalikasan kundi ang mismong KALIKASAN. Maging ang DIYOS na Lumikha ay hindi makikialam sa isang KALAYAAN na NAIPAGKALOOB na NIYA. Kung kaya, huwag nawang sisihin ang DIYOS sa ganitong kalagayan. Pumutok ang Bulkan dahil NATURE talaga nito ang mag-release ng sobrang init ng kalupaan. Yon ang papel ng pag-iral nito. Nakakatulong ang BULKAN sa pagsasaayos o pag-arrange ng Tectonic Plate of the Earth. Sa katagalan kase ng pag-iral ng mundo o daigdig, natutunaw ng init sa ilalim ng lupa ang mga bato na siyang naghahawak sa ibabaw nito, at ang resulta, tumatagilid ang sangkalupaan dahil hindi na maayos ang pagkakasalansan ng layers nito. At paano ito ibabalik sa dating ayos o kalagayan? Kailangang yanigin ang sangkalupaan sa pamamagitan ng pagsabog ng bulkan. Medyo,
mukhang marahas nga lamang. Pero, ang epekto ay pangmatagalan. Hi Lubhang malamig na Klima Canada: Ang Implikasyon at laman ng aking Imahinasyon Batas din umano ng natura o kalikasan ang paglamig ng panahon. Kailangan nitong panatilihing matigas ang yelo sa mga kabundukan at buong kalupaan ng Canada at sa iba pang lugar na merong nyibe o snow. Kapag natunaw kase ang yelo dahil sa init ng panahon; eh tiyak na pagbaha naman ang kapalit. Hula ko lang ito mga ginigiliw kong mambabasa. Hindi po ako isang Scientist. Sa punto de vista naman ng Kalikasan ng Tao: Masisisi mo ba siya? Maging ang ating mga personal na desisyon ay di pinanghihimasukan ng Diyos. Ang Kalayaan natin ang nagpapasiya. Kung ano ang mangyari sa buhay niya; desisyon niya yon at hindi KALOOBAN ng DIYOS. PINAHINTULUTAN lamang ng Diyos ang nagaganap sa sarili nating buhay. Bakit naman? Kung ang Diyos ang masusunod sa lahat ng mga kaganapan, hindi na siya Diyos ng Kalayaan (Freewill). Titigil Siya sa Kanyang pagka-Diyos kapag siya ay naging Diktador! At kung ganyan ang Diyos, ayaw na natin ng Diyos! Subalit hindi nga Siya ganun! Lumikha Siya at ng magkamali tayo ay umakto pa muli Siya bilang Manunubos. Natubos nga ang mga
nais magpatubos at namatay ang mga tumanggi sa Kanyang Kalinga at Pag-ibig. Dalawang Teorya sa mga SANHI ng KAGANAPAN: 1. Proximate Cause - Sumabog ang bulkan. Ang Diyos ay Proximate Cause at ang BULKAN mismo ang Ultimate Cause. Wala na Siyang direktang panghihimasok sa kaganapan ng natura o kalikasan. 2. Ultimate Cause - Ipinanganak tayo ng magulang natin. Ang Diyos ang Ultimate Cause. Siya ang Kadulu-duluhang Sanhi ng ating buhay. Ang ating mga magulang ang Proximate Cause sa pagiging tao natin. Sino nga ba ang sino? Dapat bang sisihin ang Diyos? Dapat
bang sisihin ang sinuman dahil pumutok ang bulkan? Kasalanan ba nang magnanakaw na pulitiko, nang talamak na drug lords, nang gambling lords at addicts, nang walang habag na illegal loggers, nang mga loan sharks, at iba pang
mala-demonyong tao sa lipunan? Unawa mo na ba na ang Batas ay Batas? Kung kulang ang aking pagbabahagi, pakidagdagan para sa kaliwanagan ng ating isipan. Kung kagaya kita at sa isip mo ay may sumagi, iyo ring ibahagi.
78% of Filipinos believe there are ninja cops in police force
MANILA -- Majority of Filipinos believe that ‘ninja cops’ exist in the Philippine National Police (PNP),
according to Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey released on Tuesday. The SWS survey, fielded from
December 13-16, 2019, found that 78 percent of Filipinos believe the accusation that there are ninja
cops or police who allegedly sell confiscated drugs they seize in operations among members of the force. Seven percent do not believe the accusation, while 15 percent are undecided about the matter. This gives a net belief score of +70, correctly rounded, the SWS said. Meanwhile, 23 percent of Filipinos say there are “very many” ninja cops in the police force, 44 percent say “somewhat many”, 28 percent say “a little”, and 3 percent say “almost none.” By area, the net belief that there are ninja cops is highest in Metro Manila at +77, followed by Balance Luzon at +71, the Visayas at +69, and Mindanao at +65. The survey results also showed that 50 percent of Filipinos believe the accusation that former PNP chief Oscar Albayalde is a protector of ninja cops while 13 percent say they do not believe and 37 percent are undecided. This gives a net belief score of +37. The net belief that Albayalde is a protector of ninja cops is highest in the Visayas at +43, followed by
Metro Manila at +40, Balance Luzon at +36, and Mindanao at +33. Late last year, the PNP-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) amended its original complaint to include Albayalde who was Pampanga Provincial Police director when the drug raid involving “ninja cops” took place in 2013. Albayalde allegedly attempted to influence the dismissal order against his 13 former subordinates accused of reselling seized illegal drugs. On Oct. 14, Albayalde relinquished and went on non-duty status (NDS) before his mandatory retirement on Nov. 8. No permanent PNP chief has been appointed since Albayalde stepped down amid the ninja cops’ controversy. The PNP is currently headed by Lt. Gen. Archie Gamboa as officerin-charge while Interior Secretary Eduardo Año was tasked by Duterte to supervise the police force. Duterte said he wanted Año to “fix” the PNP by ensuring a police force free from corruption and abuses. (PNA)
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Points of View | Philippine News
VIEWPOINT
A world gone mad?
I Bing J. Jaleco bingjaleco@yahoo.com Raleigh “Bing” Jaleco was a veteran journalist and public relations consultant in the Philippines. He started out as a correspondent for Ang Pahayagang Malaya and then moved on to be a reporter, and then an editor, of The Manila Chronicle. He also served as news editor of The Manila Standard, business editor of The Manila Times, and sub-editor at the Manila Bulletin. He landed as a permanent resident in Canada in 2016.
am surely not alone in the observation that the world is spinning out of control. It’s a disconcerting feeling, to say the least, to even attempt to understand how we got here. Around the globe, we see nations and governments spiral into chaos and disorder. Are we now living in a world gone mad? You wonder if all this insanity was a result of President Donald Trump’s MAGA madness, of a new world order he actively pursues and promotes. His actions have created ripples and waves across borders, with disastrous results. His trade war with China has affected other economies, notably Canada. The arrest of Meng Wanzhou, CFO and daughter of the founder of Chinese telco giant Huawei, in Vancouver at the behest of Washington drew a
Taal and Mayon Watch MARAMING JOURNALIST ANG NAGSASABING TANGING MAINSTREAM MEDIA LAMANG ANG DAPAT PANIWALAAN AT HUWAG PANINIWALAAN ANG MGA FACEBOOK BLOGGERS. 1. Historians and journalists have made the people believe that TAAL VOLCANO is small, as it is mostly seen by others on postcards and in textbooks. 2. On January 12, 2020 national TV and even my Facebook feed covered the eruption of TAAL VOLCANO. That was the very first time, in my 68 years of existence on Earth, that I learned that the small volcano as seen on postcards and textbooks is only one of the more than 40 craters of the giant underground TAAL VOLCANO. Perhaps making TAAL VOLCANO appear small was a tourist marketing strategy. (Please see the photos.) 3. Presently, Mayon Volcano is on level-2. Many people believed that the famous Cagsawa Church was buried brought about by the eruption of Mayon Volcano many years ago, but later in some narratives and photos, it was said that the Cagsawa Church was not buried but was instead destroyed by the volcanic eruption. However, again, for tourist marketing purposes, the remnants of the damaged church were totally removed, leaving only the bell tower. (See the photos and narrative herein). 4. This is not the era where the people can be fooled easily. For the people to be able to reconcile history, they rely on Facebook for
ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL JANUARY 2020
harsh response from Beijing—two Canadians in China were jailed on spying allegations, and then another two were put on death row. It also cancelled close to US$4 billion in Canadian agricultural exports. In Asia, Hong Kong was rocked by pro-democracy protests that sprung from Beijing’s push for an extradition bill in the former Crown Colony’s legislature that would have allowed extradition from Hong Kong to the mainland. The protests have grown more violent and frequent, and a resolution is nowhere in sight. In the Middle East, a Ukrainian commercial jet was shot down by an Iranian missile. All 176 passengers on board were killed, including 63 Canadians. This, after President Trump ordered the assassination of
Taal Volcano before the Eruption
Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani. Though loathed and hated by much of the Western world for his notoriety and brutality, Trump’s brazen actions to unilaterally act without clear justification, much less any compunction to follow the rule of law, leaves the world at the edge of its seat, unsure of what the future now holds. These events and developments are, in some way, intertwined. And the absence of even a semblance of the rule of law leaves us wondering just how much time we have left before the world is thrown into further turmoil. This is the frightening reality we find ourselves in now. It may seem so far away for most, but history has taught us that geopolitical events all redound to a single arena of resolution. Nature has also taught us, as it continues to teach us today, that
while we may have 195 countries in this planet, it is, at the end of the day, just one planet. We only need to look at the wildfires in the Amazon, Australia, and the US, or the volcanic eruptions in Mexico and the Philippines, and understand how these episodes affect not just one part of the planet but the entire globe. It’s just one big backyard folks, and we can’t say anymore that we kept our part clean, the other parts are not our problem. What happens in Hong Kong affects all of us. What happens in Tehran affects us too. And in Kiev, Moscow, Beijing, Manila, and other parts of the planet. How much more convincing will we need to realize that we all in the same boat, and when one end is tipped, the other end topples? Humans can be so dumb sometimes.
Taal Volcano after the Eruption
blow by blow events. 5. FACEBOOK is the modern day arena being watched/monitored by people around the globe. Our knowledge is being updated by Facebook. #Itatama ng facebook ang ating kasaysayan. AS I SAID, FACEBOOK IS A MODERN ARENA OF THE WORLD. IT WILL HELP PEOPLE EVADE BAD EXPERIENCES 1. It was recorded that TAAL VOLCANO erupted in January 30, 1911 (please see the photos below), if you will notice, there were cracks in the road, exactly the same as the cracks that are visible now. 2. Ang mga bitak o crack sa lupa ay maaring pahiwatig na bago sumabog ang bulkan ay nagkaroon muna ng pamamaga sa ilalim ng lupa sa bahagi (vicinity o radius) ng kinaroroonan ng bulkan. 3. Tulad ng mga bitak sa lupa na natagpuan ngayon 2020 sa Lemery, Agoncillo, Talisay at marami pang iba, ito ay maaring senyales ng nalalapit na major eruption ng bulkang TAAL dahil tulad ng paulit ulit na sinasabi
ng PHIVOLCS na hindi pa tapos ang pag aalburoto ng bulkan na any moment ay sumabog ito. Dahil ang pagbubuga ng usok ay panimula o pahiwatig lamang ng nalalapit na pagsabog nito. 4. Inilathala ko ang article na ito hindi para takutin ang sambayanan but instead ang tanging nais ko ay buksan ang kanilang diwa para
magsagawa ng mas-ibayong pag-iingat upang kahit paano ay maiwasan ang sakuna sa ating mga buhay. 5. #Pakiusap, unahin po sanang ilikas ang mga bata dahil wala pa silang kakayahang iligtas ang kanilang sarili. 6. Mahirap man, subalit mayroon tayong kasabihan na... THERE'S NO HARM IN TRYING but make it as fast as possible.
7. Ang halos lahat ng nasa larawan noong 1911 ay present sa mga kaganapang ngayong January 12-14, 2020 with no major eruption yet. 8. Kapansin-pansin na ang major eruptions ng TAAL VOLCANO ay nagaganap sa buwan ng JANUARY o SEMTEMBER na tumatagal ng approximately 6-months.
Cagsawa Church and Mayon Volcano
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Salumbides sets up team to help Taal Volcano eruption victims By Moses Billacura
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uality Care Group of Companies co-founder Kris Salumbides and his family have set up a team of volunteers and donors for affected Kababayans in Batangas after the Taal Volcano erupted January 12 in the Philippines. Salumbides and his family are in the Philippines for a vacation and after the eruption, they decided to reach out to his friends and family on FB to help. “We would like to see the actual situation in the area and provide them basic necessities,” said Salumbides, who arrived in Canada as an OFW and is now running the Quality Care Group of Companies that manages Medicus Family Health Clinic and Pharmacy in Edmonton as well as a medical supplies company and a sleep clinic. He has made coordination efforts with the Philippine Red Cross and the local government unit so that relief goods will be distributed smoothly. Beng Agasino, a native of Batangas, lauded Salumbides’ initiative to lead the fund-raising event and said said the Jesus Is Lord ( JIL) church, where she is a
member, has also started raising funds to augment support. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology posted on its website that "heavy ashfall from the ongoing eruptions of Taal has reportedly fallen southwest of the volcano island in Cuenca, Lemery and Taal". "Fine ashfall can cause irritation and breathing problems especially among the elderly and children," Phivolcs said. Use of N95-grade facemasks or wet cloth are advised by Phivolcs when going outside. As of this writing, Phivolcs has recorded 144 volcanic earthquakes in the Taal region since the eruption on January 12.
Kris Salumbides (standing left) with fellow Filipino community leaders in Edmonton during the "Pasayaw ng Bayan, Give Love on Christmas Day" event last month. With Salumbides are (standing, left-right) Benjie Lindo of Benjie Lindo Live Updates, Alvin Ereneta of AlbertaLine Master Contracting, (seated left-right) Filipino Chamber of Commerce in Calgary president Mike Siervo, Philippine Arts Council's Ida Beltran-Lucila and Jojo Lucila and Atty.Joseph Angeles of the Philippine Business Society of Alberta. (Photo by Moses Billacura)
Make beautiful skin your new year’s resolution with the help of Skin Lueur!
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eautiful skin is within your reach with the help of Skin Lueur and their newest promotions. Save money with quality skincare that has proven results. Starting this month, they are currently offering their most popular Oxygen 3-in-1 superfacial at a discounted rate of 35% off! Consider it a “happy hour” facial as the discount is only offered on Wednesdays from 12 noon to 6pm and will be conducted by two of Doc Chum’s very capable and highly trained Skin Lueur “angels”; Cath & Zab. Skip those margaritas and give your skin some love! If underarms are more of your concern, they’re currently offering up their latest underarm whitening treatment, Skin Lueur White, for 30% off with the purchase of two sessions! Be darkfree and worry-free on your next tropical get-away with this great deal! See immediate results after just one session. Being flawless is just a call away. So what are you waiting for? All photos and articles available online. Follow us
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Mangan at Quickly Callingwood's seafood delight
By Moses Billacura
I
t was a few years back that I met Alex Galang. We call him Chef Alex because he does the cooking for the Crosstown Auto Centre basketball teams during out-of-town games. The other cook helping him feed the team officials and players is Joe Robillos, Chef Joe, we call him. Then came the announcement
late last year that Quickly Premium Bubble Team in Callingwood, will have Mangan to add to its line-up of food choices. Since 2018, my wife Marj would love to go to Quickly Premium for their famous bubble tea and have a chit-chat with the lovely May Tiongson, wife of coach Chester. There's the chicken wings, kikiam and fish and squid balls that would be a good partner for the bubble tea.
Then Marj saw on their FB page about the Seafoods KareKare. Then the curiousity started. She started talking about it to her siblings about her feeling that menu looks very delicious. So I decided to order a party tray, then added the Sweet and Sour Fish, Stir-fry Prawn and Egglant in Sambal Sauce to complete the seafoods line-up. Well, just for curiousity's sake.
The verdict? I had a grand time on Christmas eve, seeing my in-laws enjoying every bite of the seafoods line-up. Believe, these people are food critics themselves in their own right. The flavorful kare-kare, just the right taste of sweetness and sourness of the fish, and the stirfry prawn and eggplant in Sambal sauce? Bull's eye! I made them happy that night.
Chef Alex's seafood line-up was mouth-watering and provided a delight to the taste buds. Mangan was impressive! It was indeed a seafoods delight. (Writer's Note: Mangan is located at Callingwood Square, 6719-177 Street, Edmonton can can be reached at (780) 249-2622)
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Conflicts in the Middle East and Overseas Filipino Workers
CELPIP or Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program is a language test that is a requirement to be able to apply for permanent residency. Migrante have a free 10-week review program that help participants in prepare for the tests. Email migrantealberta@gmail.com of find us on Facebook (migrantealberta) for more information or register.
MIGRANTS' VOICES
Manila in 2003, expected to supply thousands of Filipino labourers in the war region. Secretary Patricia Sto.Tomas, from Philippine labor and employment said in an article “I'm confident that if they're looking for skilled workers, they'll come to us”. During President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s regime, she sent 4,200 workers as part of her commitment to the U.S.
occupation of Iraq, primarily under contract with military bases of the United States. Along with it were 51 Filipino soldiers stationed there. On July 7, 2004, OFW truck driver Angelo dela Cruz was kidnapped near Fallujah while transporting fuel from Saudi Arabia. The kidnapping of dela Cruz led to the withdrawal of Philippines troops from the
coalition, the repatriation of OFWs and a deployment ban of Filipino workers seeking to work in Iraq. His abductors kept him for 16 days until the Philippine Government complied with the kidnappers’ demands. The new conflict As of the first half of 2019,
there were about 2.4 million Filipino workers in the Middle East. In June of last year, the US-Saudi conflict with Yemen turned into a full-blown ground battle in different regions within Saudi territory. There were 40 thousand Filipinos that work and reside there. continued on page 24 ►
Marco Luciano mluciano2@gmail.com Marco Luciano is the Global Council Representative of Philippine based Migrante International. He is also the current Secretary General of its chapter Migrante Canada.
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wo days after New Year, on Jan. 3, a targeted drone strike killed a prominent Iranian General during his visit in Iraq. In an NBC News article, it said that the killing was “at the direction of US President Trump”. “The U.S. military has taken decisive defensive action to protect U.S. personnel abroad” it followed. The US-Iran Conflict is not new. It has been on-going since the U.S. orchestrated the overthrow of democratically elected Prime Minister, Mohammad Mossadeq in 1953. Conflicts in the Middle East are also not new to Filipino migrants in the region. Over 100,000 Filipinos were working in Kuwait when Iraq invaded Kuwait during the Gulf War in 1990. That invasion and occupation triggered a US-led high tech military campaign known as "Operation Desert Storm.” A Philippine Compensation Claims Committee (PCCC) was created to respond to the victims that would supposedly file claims. There were 40,000 Filipino claimants that were approved by the United Nations at that time. Many of the beneficiaries of the $12 Billion are still waiting for the claim. A couple of years after the September 11, 2001 terror attack in New York City, then U.S. President George Bush ordered the invasion of Iraq on March 2003. The Iraq war lasted until President Barack Obama called for the withdrawal of US troops in 2011. On the other hand, companies were bidding to win contracts from Washington to rebuild Iraq's roads, airports, hospitals or other structures. Officials in All photos and articles available online. Follow us
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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL JANUARY 2020
Pacquiao, MPBL players dine at Panciteria de Manila; receive warm welcome from Pinoy fans, Stingers head at Expo Centre
Photo by Dario Juanillo By Moses Billacura
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t the Panciteria de Manila Restaurant, adoring fans of Manny Pacquiao got a chance to say "Hi!", take selfies with him and even pose for photos to local photographers during his brief visit to Edmonton, Dec.28. Panciteria's Bayani and Lorena Alcantara and their staff were
The Panciteria de Manila family and Senator Manny Pacquiao.(Photo by Moses Billacura)
getting ready for 120 people from the Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) who came for lunch and after things got settled, the adoring fans could not help but keep to on taking photos of the "Pambansang Kamao". "Masaya kami at aming nakita at
The Angeles Law family and Senator Manny Pacquiao.(Photo by Moses Billacura)
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naka usap si Senator Manny Pacquiao at ang kanyang pamilya," said Bayani Alcantara after meeting one of the world's greatest professional boxers. Atty.Joseph Angeles and his family are regulars at the Panciteria de Manila but that day was extra special.
The Alberta Filipino Journal led by publisher Jun Angeles and editor Lito Velasco with Manny Pacquiao.(Photo by Moses Billacura)
"That was a rare opportunity and we are glad to have photos with him," said the Edmonton-based lawyer who established Angeles
Dr.Nimrod Montano and wife Jencet of Great Smile Family Dental with Manny Pacquiao.
Law with his wife and law partner Atty. Katrina Angeles. Pacquiao, the world boxing champion and Philippine senator,
Realtor Loida Lumanlan came ready and Senator Manny Pacquiao signs her boxing glove.(Photo by Moses Billacura)
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JANUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL gamely posed with his fans including members of the media that included Nicky Gocuan of the Filipino Journal who had the opportunity to interview Pacquiao in 2003 in the Philippines. "That was the last time I was able to interview him after he beat (Marco Antonio) Barrera. I was happy that he remembered our interview," said Gocuan, a veteran reporter and photographer in the Philippines before moving to Canada with his family. That day came also as a bonus as former PBA stars were also present. Among them were Zaldy Realubit and Kenneth Duremdes, who played in the professional basketball league in the Philippines, who are now manning the MPBL which was
formed by Pacquiao in 2017 as a semi-professional league to give opportunity for rising basketball stars who could not make it yet to pro basketball. Realubit, a native of Naisipit in Agusan, was No.1 pick in the 1989 PBA Draft and played for Presto Ice Cream that year and was a three-time PBA All-Star. He retired in 2005 with the Purefoods team and now serves as MPBL's chief operating officer. Duremdes, who hails from Koronadal in South Cotabato, was selected by Sunkist Orange in the 1995 PBA Draft and retired as a Coca-Cola Tiger in 2012. He is MPBL's commissioner. After the Panciteria event, Pacquiao and the MPBL players
Sports | Community | Business took a rest then proceeded to the Edmonton Expo Centre and played with local teams formed by the Philippine Sports Association-Edmonton. Since the Expo Centre is home of the Edmonton Stingers, Stingers president Brett Fraser welcomed Pacquiao by presenting a Stingers' jersey in simple ceremonies. The Stingers compete in the Canadian Elite Basketball League. The Alberta Filipino Journal headed by publisher Jun Angeles were among the media sponsors of the memorable event.
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The Philippine Sports Association Edmonton staff helped as table officials. (Photo by Moses Billacura)
U.S.-based sportswriter Winchell Campos of Team Pacquiao (right) with Filipino Journal publisher Jun Angeles (center) and editor Lito Velasco. (Photo by Moses Billacura)
Chandra Mendis of Canadian Immigration Group (2nd from left) with her team and MPBL commissioner Kenneth Duremdes. (Photo by Moses Billacura)
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Consul-General Zaldy Patron hands a welcome gift to Senator Max's Restaurant Edmonton served as caterer for the dinner to Manny Pacquiao. (Photo by Moses Billacura) event sponsors. (Photo by Moses Billacura)
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Business
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Atty.Joseph Angeles takes a selfie with Senator Manny Pacquiao.(Photo by Moses Billacura)
ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL JANUARY 2020
Congressman Bobby Pacquiao of OFW Family partylist points to Dave Red, thanking him for being a fan of his brother world boxing champion Manny Pacquiao as Panciteria de Manila's Bayani Alcantara and Filipino Journal's Nicky Gocuan look on. (Photo by Moses Billacura)
Videographers Ludy and Dario Juanillo Zumba King Manny Arban, Joan Aguilar of World FM with Senator Manny Pacquiao. 101.7 and friends with Senator Manny Pacquiao. (Photo by Moses Billacura) (Photo by Moses Billacura)
Justine, Reynaldo, Cody of Legacy Equipment came to support the Manny Allan Angeles (extreme left, 2nd row) of the Pacquiao and MPBL event. Philippine Sports Association (PSA) came with his Neil Baler of Baler Photo Studio gets a friends to cheer for Manny Pacquiao. selfie with Senator Manny Pacquiao. (Photo by Moses Billacura)
Bayani Alcantara of Panciteria de Manila talks to Senator Manny Pacquiao about Panciteria's menu (Photo by Moses Billacura)
PSA president Gary Perpetua and his wife came with gloves and shoes for Philippine Consul-General Zaldy Patron with MPBL's Zaldy Realubit. Manny Pacquiao to sign.
Manny Pacquiao is adored not only by Filipinos but by other nationalities including this group who took videos of the world boxing champion while warming up at the Manny Pacquiao waves to fans. basketball court.
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Photo by Dario Juanillo
Photo by Dario Juanillo
Photo by Dario Juanillo
The "Manny Pacquiao" of Edmonton also came to watch.
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Feast of Jesus, The Black Nazarene By Dario Juanillo
The Feast was held last Thursday, January 9, 2020 at St. Agnes Church in Edmonton, Alberta. With nearly 240 Black Nazarene devotees graced the yearly event. The Mass was officiated by Fr. Varghese Munduvelil, assisted by Dcn. Ramon Morales and Dcn. Gem Mella. Also in attendace were Fr. Joby Augustin and Fr. Len Gartner. The said Feast was organized by the Nazareno Knights of Columbus of Edmonton. Photos by Dario Juanillo | Alberta Filipino Journal
Free flu shots ongoing at Medicus Family Clinic
Carefully Defining Self-Care FILIPINAVIGATION
F
lu vaccination is still ongoing at the Medicus Family Health Clinic and Pharmacy. Medicus Clinic manager Joyce Samonte said Albertans can give them a call (780) 7577713 or can visit them at Medicus located at 1536 91 St SW, Edmonton, AB T6X 1M5 for the free flu shot. The Alberta government has spent $12.5 million for the 1.6 million doses of influenza vaccine for the 2019 to 2020 season. "All Albertans 6 months of age and older can get the current 4-strain influenza vaccine free of charge," said the Alberta Health Services (AHS) on its website. AHS added that in 2018 to 2019 season, "there were 1,976 hospitalizations and 52 deaths (in hospital) among people with lab-confirmed influenza". "They can get a free flu shot at Medicus. Libre naman po," said Samonte.(Moses Billacura)
Riana Torrejon torrejonriana@gmail.com Riana Torrejon is an undergraduate student at the University of Alberta who is a passionate advocate for human rights. In her spare time, she loves to write and sing. She is also the Fundraising and Events Director for the Child Advocacy Society of University of Alberta and a writer for Happy Columns. Martin Luther King, Jr. is one of her greatest inspirations.
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his year, I’ve been thinking a lot about what self-care is and how it practically applies to our lives. It is important to invest in yourself. You must deposit into your bank account of energy before withdrawing from it and expending any energy. We cannot be in debt with ourselves. Working from a
deficit can lead to bankruptcy. However, self-care isn’t merely buying a milkshake or putting on a facemask. Self-care is soothing yourself to create a life which you don’t have to escape from. It is making the best decision you can for yourself in every next moment you’re given, whether it is reading ahead in your class so that you understand the content better, putting your phone away so that you’re more present at the dinner table, savouring every bite of a chocolate brownie, or putting on your comfiest pajamas. When my mother combs through my hair, it soothes me back to my roots. I am brought back to my childhood of humming lullabies. When I take long and silent walks through my neighbourhood, I can look up to the sky and listen to life being lived. I can hear the cars’ tires crunch through the gravel on the road. I can hear different conversations being spoken. There are yells, hushed tones, laughter, and more. When I vacuum out the dust and dirt from the carpets, I feel refreshed as I inhale the newly cleaned air. There are many ways to take care of yourself. Let’s reflect on what this will look like for the new year.
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Immigration Consultancy Services | Points of View | Business ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL JANUARY 2020
Federal government postponed the implementation of parents' & grandparents' Sponsorship Program.
Apps for Services by the City
FROM MIGRATION TO IMMIGRATION
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’m sure that by now, you must be wondering what happened to the parents' and grandparents' Sponsorship Program (PGP). January is the time of the year when we, at the office, open our computers and struggle to create the Expression of Interest profile for our clients for the parents and grandparents Sponsorship application. However, it did not happen this year. I was surprised to learn, just before the new year, of the release of IRCC’s Ministerial Instructions 36 (M136) with respect to the processing of applications for a permanent resident visa made by parents or grandparents of a sponsor as members of the family class and the processing of sponsorship applications made in relation to those applications. With rega rd to the aforementioned M136, the New Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Hon. Marco Mendecino, announced that, “as of January 1, 2020, no permanent resident visa applications made by parents or grandparents of a sponsor and no sponsorship applications made in relation to those applications are accepted for processing until further instructions are issued. This will allow IRCC
By Giselle General
Marjorie Carmona Newman
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info@ mcncanadaimmigration.com 780-758-2045
sufficient time to complete the development of a new application intake management process for the parents' and grandparents' sponsorship program, to be implemented in 2020 and they are expected to issue further instructions relating to the program by April 1, 2020, at the latest.” If you recall, in 2017, the Liberal government introduced a lottery system for the PGP. In this initiative, sponsors who are planning to apply to sponsor their parents or grandparents were given 30 days to submit an “expression of interest” profile. Following this submission, the government then randomly selects candidates and invites them to submit the application package for their family. Last year (2019), we were anxious to access the form online but that access only lasted for 10 minutes. Our clients were not happy when they learned that we were
Marjorie Carmona Newman is a REGULATED CANADIAN IMMIGRATION CONSULTANT based in Edmonton, Alberta. Currently, she is the Prairie Rep in the Lobbying and Governance Committee and previously served as Prairie Chapter representative for the Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC) in the Governance and Nomination Committee and Education committee. Marjorie was a recipient of CAPIC's Service Award for three consecutive years (2015-2018) and has been nominated for the 2019 ATB Women Entrepreneurs Award. In December 2018, she was a recipient of the Excellence in Community Service for Edmonton given by the Filipino Champions of Canada for her contribution and service to the Filipino community.
unable to access the form. We then learned that there were more than 100,000 people who tried to access the online form at the same time. Many could not access the online form while others, including us, could not complete it on time, which resulted in criticism of the process. About 20,000 people are admitted annually under the PGP and the IRCC website shows a processing time of 24 months. To those who are planning to sponsor their parents and grandparents this year, the best advice would be to keep yourself informed of any updated instructions from IRCC, which are expected to be released by April 2020. If you have questions regarding the above article you may contact Marjorie at info@mcncanadaimmigration.com Source: Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulation (IRPR) A word of caution: You should not act or rely on the information provided in this column. It is not legal advice. To ensure your interests are protected, retain or formally seek advice from a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) in good standing of ICCRC. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of RCICs.
esidents like us rely on our city government for various needs, particularly those that are under the municipalities’ responsibility. It can be a challenge to access information in a way that works for us, especially since many of us might be too busy to send a letter, wait during a phone call, or go to downtown to get the information we need. Luckily, there are tools that the city launched to make things a bit more convenient. This short list of resources can help with getting familiar with which ones they are. Apps are available for both Apple and Android devices which is handy. 1. Edmonton 311 App: Reporting various complaints to the city is made easier with this app. Other options still are always available such as calling or sending an email. However, the app has a few conveniences, such as adding a photo with the complaint, and the GPS location feature will pinpoint the location as you report on the spot. Concerns such as illegal parking complaints, potholes, graffiti, litter including used needles, weeds and icy roads and sidewalks can be reported. 2. Edmonton Police Mobile App: This is a handy app to report certain types of crimes, receive alerts from the Edmonton Police Service, and even provide information by viewing the Missing Persons list, Assist to Identify list and more. As always, for emergencies, calling 911 is recommended. 3. Edmonton Public Library App: This mobile library and e-book access is a really useful tool. Through the app you can check availability of items you want to borrow, browse materials and review them, renew items you borrow, get directions to library branches, and borrow e-books that you can read right on your phone. 4. Edmonton Recreation Centre App: The city operates a number of recreation centres throughout the city that offer facilities from
pools, gym equipment and classes. The app provides information about the recreation centre locations, schedule for classes and facilities. 5. ETS Live to Go App: Taking the bus and train throughout Edmonton takes planning an organization, and this app can help with planning your commute. Users can save their most commonly used addresses and landmarks for planning trips, get real-time information on buses with Smart Bus feature, and see real-time departures based on location. 6. MyEPark Parking App: When driving and parking on a street with a meter or parkades owned by the city, this app is an alternate way to pay for parking. The app includes a wayfinding map to locate your car and open spots, an autonotification when your parking session is ending, and having your own EPark account that makes payment more convenient. 7. WasteWise App: Garbage and waste management are handled by the city, and if residents do their part in sorting garbage properly, the easier it is for the city to process these waste. The WasteWise App can help determining whether certain items go to garbage, recycling, or Eco Station and inform you of your garbage collection date. 8. SafeCityYEG: This is a new app that the city is using to collect information regarding which parts of the city have issues when it comes to safety, such as landmarks, street corners and more. The city plans to use this data to make improvements based on the feedback. To make a report, users can pinpoint a location and add comments regarding safety concerns. One thing to note is that these apps are specifically designed by and for the City of Edmonton. There are certainly equivalent apps that might be more suitable to your style or have more universal information, such as Google Maps for broader travel information or other apps about composting and waste management. That being said, these can be useful in living in our great city of Edmonton, to make sure that we comply with the bylaws and participate actively as residents.
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THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA
Para-Legal Services | Community
JANUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL
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Palabok House: 25 Years in Business Quality Care Group thanks donors of Edmonton Food Bank
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uality Care Group of Companies thanked those who came to the "Pasayaw ng Bayan, Give Love on Christmas" event and brought food donation for the Edmonton Food Bank. Two boxes were filled up after the event last Dec.21 at the Sejong Hall. "We would like to thank everyone for showing their love to our fellow Albertans," said Quality Care Group
co-founders Kris Salumbides, Jesse Tallon and Jacob Christian. The "Pasayaw" was organized in coordination with the "Benjie Lindo Live Updates" as a year-end event to thank the community for supporting the various businesses of Quality Care Group. Quality Care Group is into medical supplies, sleep clinics, pharmacy and family services. (Moses Billacura)
Lydia Jimenez, one of Palabok House’s owners, said: 25 they paved the way for the restaurant's success. years ago, the doors to Palabok House were opened by Josie Thank you Josie and Kim, for trusting us to further and Kim Yee. Through their hard work and commitment, the legacy of Palabok House. I am honoured and privileged to have been supported back then, and to be supported now by staff and the community. It has been quite a rewarding journey thus far. Thank you to the entire staff, you are a huge part of what we do, and your hard work is forever appreciated. Even though this night marks a special year of growth, of creativity and of success as a business... it would not have been possible without the support of our customers, families and friends. Thank you for your continued faith and loyalty. I look forward to another 10 years of working, dining, and growing with you all! Thanks to my partners Tita Tina and Tito Eddie Gonzales
25 Years in Business: Palabok House Marks Another Milestones in the Name of Service to the Fil-Can Community
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HE PILLARS AND INSPIRATIONS Josie Yee empathically said in her speech: “In order to succeed, we have to be motivated by specific guiding principles and values such as Passion, Drive, and Focus.” “First and foremost, if we do what we love, success and money will surely be upon the reach of our hands… whatever our reason
when moving forward (drive)… if we entertain and blend a touch of passion behind our words; we can naturally inspire others to succeed.”
clarify our purpose too and be reminded that our goal freelycertainly sets our passion burning and alive.”
Success: It’s easy to get there but difficult to stay there. “This is very true. That is why, we need to be focused or in the long run, re-focused; especially when we seem to be lost… It is suggested to
Lesson-Learned: “To love what you do and do whatever you love to do. Simply because, by doing what you love will always keep you focused and alive!”
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Community | Arts and Culture
ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL JANUARY 2020
The Edmonton Philippine International Centre (EPIC) Defined ARTOSPECTIVE - an artist’s point of view
Ida Beltran-Lucila ida_b_lucila@yahoo.com
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n a multicultural society, it is inevitable to encounter a number of cultural community centres around the city. At the top of one’s mind would be: the Polish Canadian Cultural Centre; Sejong Multicultural Centre; Edmonton Korean CommunityCentre; Ukrainian Cultural Centre; La Cite Francophone; Edmonton
Chinatown MultiCultural Centre; Portuguese Cultural Centre; Italian Cultural Centre; Slovenian Canadian Cultural Centre; Hellenic-Canadian Community of Edmonton & Region; GermanCanadian Cultural Centre; Dutch Canadian Centre; and Edmonton Japanese Community Association, to name a few. The irony of this is that on some occasions, the reason for my being in these venues, was due to a Filipino community event. Cultural infrastructures are an integral component of Canadian communities. These centres promote cultural values among the members of its community. They are a reflection of an established community where cultural services are increasingly part of municipal services. Arts and culture are some of the attributes that contribute to the highest quality of life of a community. With the influx of Filipinos in Alberta, which has the second largest Filipino population in Canada at approximately 175,000, and with a migration history to Canada beginning in the 1930s, it is ideal,
and rather imperative, that we Filipinos have a sustained venue, that will serve as a gathering place - a recreational, educational and cultural facility. There is nothing wrong with using another culture’s space, but it’s much more gratifying to have one that reflects your values, and way of life. Some people may think: What does it mean for me?... I have no personal need for this... or this is only relevant to those who are involved in arts and culture work. Research on the impact of cultural community spaces has shown: that 95% of respondents learned something new, and 88% increased their confidence and pride in culture and traditions by participating in programs; for 85% participation increased their desire to learn, while 83% explored ideas, values and dreams, and 79% made friends; 77% reported a positive impact on their creativity; 65% developed skills; and 64% reported a positive impact on their health and well-being. There is substantial and diverse body of evidence that a wide range of cultural activities
positively add value to regeneration initiatives - economic, social and environmental. The Philippine Centre is envisioned to be the architectural definition of our community identity. Yet, it is not just about infrastructure but it is also about the people, our culture, creative engagement, and social interaction. The planning will include multiple perspectives: disciplines of expression – e.g. visual, performing, literary, media arts, heritage, etc.; functions – e.g. recreation, instruction, training, production, exhibition, preservation; levels of artistic activity – e.g. recreational arts, amateur arts, emerging and professional/notfor-profit arts, for-profit creative industries, etc.; and community goals. For a community whose people are geographically separated by 7,100 islands, should we not bond ourselves in our communal experiences of migration, values, and way of life in our adopted country?
In my article on March 2019 on “The Quest for a Philippine Centre in Edmonton”, I posed the challenge on what would it take for us to work together towards this goal. And now, I am elated to report that Filipino community organizations and volunteers are working together towards the establishment of the Edmonton Philippine International Centre (EPIC), which will have its launch and fundraiser on February 1, 2020, Saturday, 1:30-4:30 PM at the Corpus Christi Church Hall at 2707 34 Street, Edmonton. The event aims to disseminate information on the initiative, and show what Filipinos have been doing in, and contributing to, the city of Edmonton. There will be performances, tables featuring businesses and services, door prizes, a silent auction and food. It is an opportunity to once again convene, be proud of our personal history, share our culture and participate in this legacy project. continued on page 23 ►
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THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA
Points of View
JANUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL
How safe is the ‘Safe Philippines’ project?
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mbroiled in controversy, the Safe Philippines project is facing strong opposition in the Philippine Senate due to negative reports about the contractor’s ties with China. Allegations are that the Safe Philippines project would allow China to spy on the Philippines and pose national security risk. Sa fe Philippines is a 12,000-camera closed-circuit television (CCTV) system to be installed in the cities of Quezon, Marikina, Parañaque, Pasig, San Juan, Valenzuela, and Davao. The project is a partnership between the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and China International Telecommunication Construction Corporation (CITCC) and Huawei. CITCC will undertake the project while Huawei will supply the equipment. The project will cost P20.31 billion, of which P1.2 billion will be shouldered by the Philippine government, while the rest will be paid through a soft loan from China Eximbank. CITCC is an affiliate of stateowned China Telecom, one of the firms in Mislatel Consortium, soon to become the country’s third telecommunication player. The project is supposed to start this year and will be completed by late 2021 or early 2022. Red flags But senators have raised red flags over the surveillance project since 2018
PEREZCOPE
Perry Diaz PerryDiaz@gmail.com I am a writer/columnist/journalist. I have two weekly columns -- "PerryScope" and "Balitang Kutsero." They're published in more than a dozen Filipino newspapers in five countries.
when then Senate President Ralph Recto filed a resolution to probe the surveillance system project, citing hacking and espionage allegations against Huawei. However, nothing came out of that investigation. Recently, Sen. Leila de Lima filed Senate Resolution No. 275 to formally call for a Senate inquiry on the Safe Philippines project, claiming that the project is an opportunity for China to spy on Filipinos. She said Filipinos’ right to privacy requires a Senate inquiry into how information will be collected by the Chinese firms behind the project. "Granting a country whose global reputation for its forceful espionage activities has raised
worldwide concern, the opportunity to create a surveillance system in our country should raise a red flag for our policymakers to ensure that none of our national interests are compromised by such agreements, particularly our national security," De Lima said in a dispatch she sent from her jail cell in Camp Crame. However, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año had assured the project will be handled by Filipinos. "They provide the equipment, and after providing the equipment, we'll take care of this. There will be no adviser, there will be no Chinese technician, all Filipino," he said. According to Año, the Safe Philippines project will enable a more efficient management of public order, safety, and security. He said the project is expected to reduce crime rate by 15% and increase response rate of law enforcers and responders by 25%. These include police and fire personnel that act during natural and human-induced emergencies. So, what’s the problem then? Several countries – U.S., Japan, Taiwan, and Australia -- have banned public procurement of equipment from Huawei or have rejected it from developing their information and communications technology infrastructure due to “rising security concerns.” Backdoors A recent
Bloomberg
Reciprocating Nationalism
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he idea of nationalism gives the world better opportunities that help countries be more peaceful, prosperous and a better society for future generations. Although, do international organizations really help the world be more peaceful and organized? Or does it just apply to countries that do not have the power to object to the tyranny of the majority? The idea of having a world being one society is an example of an idea that is considered to be Utopian. That is why society should not embrace the perspective of “pro nationalism” because idealism has made humans believe that a world can be peaceful; however, international organizations do not help to achieve that. The world cannot achieve a perfection. The world cannot expect a country going into war to follow war regulations. If a country is planning to conquer or achieve something, it is not ideal for a country to follow the rules, especially when the main purpose is to kill and conquer. An example of this is how, during World War II, Germany and Japan used nuclear weapons and poisonous gases in the war. If regulations were followed during this time, it would just be a whisper that would not be heard. For example, if a nation tells their enemy in war, that using nuclear
THROUGH A TEENAGER’S EYES
Kristian Cereno Kristian Gabrielle Cereno is a Grade 11 Student of Archbishop MacDonald Senior High School. His hobbies include writing poems, composing songs, acting and drama and a love of music. He plays piano and guitar and will soon learn to play the violin. Hockey? – Leave it to the Canadians.
weapons is “foul play,'' they (the enemy) would not care, instead they would keep on doing it and use it as an advantage. War regulations are useless because when wars are already happening, people would do anything that they can just to achieve something even if it causes them to not follow the regulations. Economic sanctions can be useful but it is not for countries
that can prosper on their own. If economic sanctions are given to a developed country, it would not affect them as much because they already have their own resources that can make them live on their own. For example, if you put Canada under an economic sanction on oil, Canada will still prosper because they have Alberta as their main oil source. Although, if you put the Philippines under economic sanctions, it would affect the country greatly, because it relies on trade from other countries since it is not as developed as Canada. This shows how international organizations are useless because there are countries that can prosper on their own - in fact, the countries that can prosper on their own are the countries that developing countries rely on. If economic sanctions are put on them, it would not just affect them, but the whole world will be affected too. Some people would say that society should embrace pro-nationalism because international organizations help remove trade barriers. An example of this is the USMCA (formerly NAFTA) where United States, Mexico and Canada can freely trade with one another without worrying about trade barriers. Some would also say that international organizations help
report revealed that European telecommunications company Vodafone had troubles with “hidden backdoors in the software” that could have spelled out a security issue, giving Huawei “unauthorized access to [Vodafone’s] fixed-line network in Italy” back in 2011 and 2012. According to the report, “a backdoor is vulnerability in a device or software that could allow access to a system by a third party.” It is a means of bypassing the security mechanisms of a computer system to access its data. Western nations like the US are worried that it might be in the interest of Huawei – and by extension, the Chinese government – to use backdoors to collect intelligence on countries where their equipment is used. The intelligence collected may then be given to China, which can be used commercially or politically. Further, the report said: ”Although it has been clarified that the problems back then were solved, some people involved in the security discussions, according to Bloomberg, revealed that problems remained. In fact, they said that problems were even present outside Italy, in countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, and Portugal.” Huawei had denied any connection to China, saying that it is owned by its employees. However, its alleged ties with the Chinese government is a matter that still
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worries the U.S. and other countries in the West. But its founder, Ren Zhengfei, was a former officer in the People’s Liberation Army. Can Huawei be coerced or swayed by the powersthat-be in China? In December 2018, Huawei’s chief financial officer was ordered arrested by a New York court for alleged violation of sanctions in Iran. It led the U.S. to ask a Canadian court to extradite her. is a means of bypassing the security mechanisms of a computer system to access its data. Big Brother The question is: With all the bad press Huawei has been getting, are there other issues that could compromise the Safe Philippines project from exposing the national security of the country and the privacy of the Filipino people from “Big Brother” intrusion? In other words, what guarantees do Filipinos have that the Chinese government isn’t monitoring their moves? It is a known fact that digital facial recognition is an integral part of CCTV. That means that once your image is captured in the CCTV data base, people’s movements are monitored and recorded. And while the Safe Philippines project would reduce crime rate by 15% and increase response rate of law enforcers and responders by 25%, it deprives the citizens of 100% of their privacy. Ultimately, the question is: How safe is the Safe Philippines project? from page 22
countries have stronger bonds with each other. For example, Canada and the United States are “good friends” because they reciprocate trade with each other - wood and oil is given to the United States and in return, the United States gives Canada steel. Establishing an international organization like the UN can make countries have peaceful bonds that prevents war from happening. Although, international organizations are still useless and can be “one-sided” and have a “parasitic relationship” where one country benefits but the other, not as much. The North-American Free Trade Agreement seems to be unfair because the United States trades steel - which is a very expensive material that can be used to make cars and buildings - but they only get wood and oil in return which is not as expensive and precious as steel. In conclusion, international organizations do not help the world become more prosperous and peaceful. Countries are made and divided because they can have their own laws and own agreements which make the diverse world with different perspectives have consensus and peace with one another. Economic sanctions do not really affect developed countries because they do not need to rely on other countries to prosper because they already have their own resources. That is why the world should not try to be idealistic and not strive for Utopia. In short, international organizations do not help a country prosper because not everyone benefits from it.
ARTOSPECTIVE - an artist’s point of view Work towa rds establishing a centre is longterm, requiring dedication, focus, determination and commitment with time, energy and resources. The current group of organizers and volunteers recognize the importance of accountability, trust and transparency and are exerting efforts to uphold these. However, an endeavour of this magnitude will only be made possible by sustained commitment, time, input and vision of MANY supporters advocates, artists, business leaders, volunteers and community members. I appeal to everyone to lend their support, in whatever capacity, to the various upcoming projects supporting the Edmonton Philippine International Centre initiative. And let us uphold our tagline, The Filipino Spirit Shines Through! To comment on this article, go to h ttps://www. philippineartscouncil. com/blog.
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Travel | Points of View | Community
Byahe ni Kat
Bulacan, Philippines – The Probinsya Life.
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Katrina Marielle U. Cereno Katrina is a senior high student at St. Francis Xavier High School. She is fond with the beauty of art and creativity. At her young age, she wanted to influence the people about her experience in travelling through sketches.
ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL JANUARY 2020
ulacan, officially called the Province of Bulacan or simply Bulacan Province, is a first-class province of the Republic of the Philippines. It is located in the Central Luzon Region (Region 3) on the island of Luzon, north of Manila (the nation's capital), and part of the Metro Luzon Urban Beltway Super Region. “Feel the heart and soul of the Philippines in Bulacan. Explore its history and tradition, its land, culture and its people. It is truly a melting pot of the past and the present, the old
SORE TRUTH
and the new, the countryside and the urban. Bulacan is noted as the land of heroes, beautiful women, progressive cooperatives, and small and mediumscale industries. It is also known for excellent craftsmanship in making jewelry, leather craft, buntal hats, pyrotechnics, bone in-laid furniture and garments. Bulacan has also emerged as a reputable resort haven in Luzon. Just a few minutes north of Manila by car, Bulacan resorts provide an accessible and welcome respite from the pressures of city life.”
Jomil Reyes Jomil Reyes is a 17 year old student at St.Francis Xavier High School. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, reading, and writing.
A Teenager’s Cry For Help
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uicide is the second leading cause of death for youth in Alberta. Poor mental health causes individuals to be unable to live a normal life. Mental health can be defined as one’s behavioral and emotional well being and having good mental health is being able to think and feel the way you are supposed to. However, people can go through a period of time where they struggle both physically and emotionally, where performing simple tasks may become difficult to accomplish. Everyone experiences sadness at some point in life. However, depression is more than just feeling “sad.” Depression manifests with negative behaviors that are rooted in negative emotions. Some people believe that depression is caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. However, some can argue that depression can also be caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. There are two types of depression: Major depression and dysthymic disorder. An individual with a major depressive disorder experiences the symptoms of depression for more than two weeks, and those symptoms are severe. An individual suffering from dysthymia, experiences less severe symptoms. Because some people are not well-educated on mental illnesses such as depression, some fail to recognize when others are going through it, or that they are going through it. People with depression are pulled into a dark place where things that normally makes them happy no longer has any effect on them. Because suicide or attempted suicide is committed most commonly by individuals dealing
from page 13
MIGRANTS' VOICES On January 8, the Philippine government ordered the mandatory evacuation of Filipino workers from Iraq and Iran; a definite positive move to protect OFWs. However, prior to that, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte tagged the Iranian side as the ‘enemies’ siding with the US aggressor. Not being neutral in the face of a looming war, President Duterte is implying that he is more than willing to allow www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com
the Philippines to become the US military’s launching pad against Iran. This then makes AFP a hostile force in the Middle East which is detrimental to its supposed task of evacuating Filipinos to safety. The Philippine government created a special working committee to design the plan for the evacuation of Filipinos in the Middle East. The team is composed of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr, Foreign Secretary Teodoro Locsin
Jr, Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III, and Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade. Along with them, Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu was sent to negotiate the evacuation. If we remember during the time of President Gloria Arroyo, Roy Cimatu was also in charge of the evacuation of OFWs in the Middle East. She allocated US$293,500 to the massive evacuation operations but as it turned out, no one was repatriated and the funds were spent to deploy 51 Filipino soldiers and to purchase military equipment
to aid the US military invasion of Iraq. Aside from that, Cimatu was involved in the Php $150 Million botched repatriation mission in Lebanon during the 2006 IsraelHezbollah conflict. A large amount was approved for repatriation. According to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the Philippine government can access a total of P1.82 billion for OFW repatriation. The funds will be coming from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) will be P1.29 billion, P100 million from
with depression, it is important to look after people around you, and educate yourself about it. As a teenager, I have come across many students around my age who suffer from several mental illnesses. Depression seems to be the “deadliest” and common mental illnesses teenagers can suffer from. There are many factors that contribute to depression among teenagers including stress, peer issues, bullying, issues affecting a low self esteem, and more. During my last year of Junior High, my school dealt with two suicides. This opened up everyone’s eyes, hearts, and minds when it came to mental health. Everybody realized how important it is to look after one another, for we don’t know what someone else could be dealing with. People, including myself, learned that asking for help and talking to people you trust can make you feel less “lonely,” and allows you to get things off of your chest. Teen depression is a serious disorder that changes the way one feels and functions in their daily lives. This causes issues at home, school, and also affects one's social life. Because teenagers are pressured to do well academically, a simple “low” mark can bring them down, making them feel worthless and a disappointment in their parents' lives. The negative feelings caused by depression can become so severe that individuals experiencing these can’t seem to find any solution to anything besides to hurt themselves, or others. As a teenager, I can simply say that being one is hard due to the pressure surrounding us. The increasing academic pressures and social challenges negatively impact our daily lives, putting a huge weight on our backs. While not every teenager may be suffering from depression, many of us feel stressed out, and often get the feeling of not being “good enough”. Therefore, adults, especially parents, should look after their kids, observing every change that they undergo. Parents should never put a lot of pressure on kids, as this often not only leads to depression, but also anxiety. Parents should make themselves available for their kids to talk to about anything, as this helps them build trust, and feel loved.
the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) 2020 budget and P500 million from the OWWA Fund. Corruption persists, putting the lives of the people that uplift the Philippine economy in grave danger. For as long as the conflict in the Middle East persists, OFWs' lives will always be in crisis. The fact that our kababayans were forced to go there goes to show that the lives they’re trying to run away from back home are worse.
THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA
Education | Business
JANUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL
Frequently Ask Questions for APEGA Professional Membership Application
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n the past several months since the Alberta Filipino Journal launched the website, https:// www.albertafilipinojournal.com and provided access to the digital copy of the paper, more readers are becoming interested and have become more informed. I am, on average, receiving 3 emails per week and replying to specific queries on the APEGA and ASET application process here in Alberta. Half of those who are trying to connect with me through email are immigrants of other nationalities, who came to Alberta to undergo their licensure process. For most Filipinos, the common questions are with regard to their Education Credential Evaluation results that hinder them fro going further with their Professional recognition application. Below are some of the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) that I received through email that might benefit other readers: 1. Why does World Education Services (WES) evaluate my academic diploma as graduate of Bachelor of Science in Engineering (major) in the Philippines as only equivalent to a 2-year Diploma in Canada? Answer: WES evaluates the education of the applicant based on the documents you have submitted. This includes your Transcript of Record (TOR) and Diploma mailed directly by the College/University from where you graduated. Take note, that TOR listed the subject code and the name of the subject you took during your tertiary education side by side with the grade score you achieved. The evaluator looks only at the similarity of the subject name to its Canadian equivalent and will not merit favorable equivalent if the subject is far different from those courses or the subjects that are offered by the Canadian Curriculum. So, it is advisable to include the course and subject description and the syllabus of each subject when submitting your documents to WES. Philippine secondary education (high school) is only 4 years, which totals to 10 years from Grade 1. In Canada, the total years of basic education is 12 years. The Math and Science subjects for those who graduated in the Philippines will not be sufficient to merit the number of hours that are required to have Canadian education equivalents because of these total years of basic education. Hence, it is recommended to submit as many documents and courses you took from your University to prove that you have enough Science and Math subjects. If you have Post-Graduate studies (Masters Degree) this will greatly help in advancing your Education Credential Requirements. 2. It is difficult to write the experience requirement that will comply the 22 Competency Requirements. Can you help me with this? Answer: In the past articles that I wrote for the Alberta Filipino Journal, you can find the 5-part series where I gave examples on how to write about your Experience that addresses the 22 Competencies. These articles are from the May 2019 to September 2019 issues of the Alberta Filipino Journal. Take note that writing and documenting your experience must be specific and not a copy-paste approach. Every experience is unique for each individual. Your experience depends on your field of Engineering and depends on your employment from your previous and present companies. It is a matter of understanding the 22 Competencies and recalling all your experiences during the performance of your job. Somewhere and somehow, you applied all those competencies. 3. Can I start my application even before I land as and immigrant in Canada? Answer: Yes. It is better to start your application before coming to Canada. Comply with all the
ENGINEER IN ACTION
Mervin Cereno, P. Eng. mmcereno@gmail.com Mervin Cereno is a Filipino immigrant in Canada. A FilipinoCanadian Engineer license to practice Engineering in Alberta. He is employed in one of most sought Engineering Consulting Firm based in Edmonton as Structural Engineer that designs small to medium-rise commercial and multi-family buildings. He is a Volunteer and Advocates to help Filipino-Canadian Engineers to pursue their Professional Engineering License in Canada.
4. I do not have the required 48 months of Engineering Experience because I just graduated from my Engineering degree outside of Canada. Can I start my application to APEGA as Engineerin-Training? Answer: Yes. You can start your application to APEGA and eventually become an EIT. You must need to have a minimum of 48 months of Engineering Experience under the Supervision of a Professional Engineer to eventually become a Professional Engineer. If APEGA gives you EIT status, it is likely that your Education requirements are already satisfied and you need to complete and comply with your Engineering Experience Requirements eventually. 5. How long is the application process to grant the Professional Member Status? Answer: There are many factors that will contribute to a delay in your application. Ideally, when all documents are submitted on time and all exam requirements are complied with according to the ideal
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timeline – a total of 12 months process is doable. But for Internationally Educated Engineers, where you need to have to take your Fundamental of Engineering Exams (FE) or Technical Exams (if required), these are the most time-consuming in the entire process and are entirely dependent on the Applicant. If you have already completed your Canadian Engineering Experience (as an Immigrant in Canada) and you eventually decide to apply to APEGA, this will shorten your application time. 6. How much is the total estimated cost I should expect to spend for the entire application process? Answer: The total amount varies depending on each situation. After the Board of Examiners decides that the Applicant has to take the Fundamentals of Engineering Exams (FE) only and not the Technical Exams – you are looking at about CA$1,500 total estimated expenses. But if you are to take the Technical Exams, on average, it is CA$250 per subject and the costs will go higher, depending on the number of subjects the BOE will tell you to take. The above FAQ are some of the common email questions I received over the past several months. If you have some questions that you want to ask based on your specific situation, do not hesitate to send me an email so that I can further help you as you go through your application process.
For advice on specific case in pursuing your application whether in ASET or APEGA, please email me at mmcereno@gmail.com.
Education requirements and submit all necessary experience requirements including your references. Once you land in Canada, by that time – you will have the options of taking the Fundamentals of Engineering Exams, the National Professional Practice Exams and comply with the One Year Canadian Experience – that is, if you have more than 48 months of Engineering prior to immigrating to Canada.
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Religion | Brain Twisters
ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL JANUARY 2020
The Fulfillment of Faith OUR TEXT "Even so faith, if it hath not works, it is dead, being alone." James 2:17, KJV INTRODUCTION Now, we all know that faith without works is dead. A dead faith is not in agreement with the realities of heaven. Thus, if we seek to live a lifestyle that represents the realities of heaven, our faith in God will be actively drawn upon. It is in this active faith that we find our position of love. The reality of heaven is that we are not working for love; we are working from perfect love—GOD. For God is LOVE. We are living from this truth – that we are being perfected by perfect love. The continual renewing of the heart and mind in the love of God leads us to cultivate a passion to see the truth of the Kingdom and the love of the Father throughout the world, and consequently, live a life of faith with good works. WE NEED TO BE PURGED As we dismantle the spirit of legalism through working from perfect love Himself, we usher in the Holy Spirit that brings the fullness of His presence, the power of His authority and the guidance of His will. We take up the revelation of 2 Timothy 2:20-21, “But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honor, and some to dishonor. If a man therefore purges himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, and meet for the Master's use, and prepared unto every good work.” THE NEED FOR SANCTIFICATION We have been sanctified in the holiness of God, making us holy vessels that the Father is pleased to use for His good workings of the Kingdom. Through the process of sanctification we have been separated from the influence of the world and the lusts of the flesh, so that we are no longer prone to returning to the old nature, but we are living from the birth of our new life in the Spirit. To embrace this heavenly reality, we position ourselves to be sanctified vessels through fellowship with God.
FROM A VANTAGE POINT
Tito S.Venida FOUNDING FATHER
Tito S. Venida is a product of the University of the Philippines. He used to be a student-leader during his college days and became one of the founders of the Tau Gamna Phi, one of the world leading Philippineproduced fraternities. His immensurable love for the human race has brought him to the conviction of translating his mission from fraternity into Divinity--from a mere brotherhood into sainthood. Tito authored a book entitled Quocunque Jeceris Stabit, which means, wherever you throw, it will stand.
Our position in the Kingdom is finalized; we are holy vessels destined to make the realities of heaven become the realities of earth. With this revelation at hand, the affections of our hearts and minds turn to radical intimacy with the King of Glory. THE FULFILLMENT OF FAITH Our will becomes the catalyst for the in filling of the Kingdom of God. As our will conforms to the will of God, we move from cultivating faith to releasing the good works that we have been destined to accomplish. Faith leads us to make the realm of possibilities our new reality. We are positioning ourselves for a breakthrough of heaven on earth; we are working from the Kingdom and for the Kingdom. Again, to have faith without works is an incomplete Christian lifestyle ( James 2:14); a lifestyle of faith will thus supernaturally lead to
HOROSCOPE
a lifestyle of good works. Good works then become the external expression of the internal workings of faith - a fulfillment that releases the workings of faith into the daunting circumstances of the earth. The Lord Jesus was One who worked from the Kingdom for the advancement of the Kingdom. His workings came from His heavenly anointing, “the Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to preach the Gospel to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release of the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free those who are downtrodden, to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord” (Luke 4:18-19). As the Lord Jesus read these words, He was declaring that the Father had anointed Him for the good works of the Kingdom – to speak the good news of the Kingdom of God; to proclaim release to anyone captive to physical, psychological or spiritual bondage; to heal the physical bodies of God’s people; to give clarity of sight; to set free those that are downtrodden; and to declare that this is the year of the Lord’s favor. Jesus performed work after work that demonstrated the superior reality of the Kingdom of God. He was anointed for good words, and He has commissioned us to do greater (John 14:12). The Spirit of God has anointed us, and He has appointed us to release the good works of the Father. CONCLUSION Faith is spelled “r-i-s-k,” and this risk is manifested in the doing of the good works that releases the Kingdom. Once our hearts are internally grounded in the love of God, we find ourselves positioned to release the growing measure of the Kingdom through our actions. Our faith is not one that looks for the comfort of being, but rather dwells amongst the devil’s strongholds, aiming to disarm the power of darkness through the resurrected authority of the Lord Jesus Christ. We have been given the authority of the Lord Jesus, and He is calling forth His majestic army to do God’s will on earth. We are the army that shall preach the gospel, cast out demons, speak in new tongues and heal the sick (Mark 16:15-18).
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ACROSS
1. Frenzy 5. Physicians' org. 8. Besides 12. Genesis man 13. Voice actor ___ Blanc 14. Fleshy fruit 15. Mediore (hyph.) 16. Coming in 18. Made believe 20. Positive responses 21. Rest 26. Possible 29. Loose flesh 33. Tattered cloth
DOWN
1. Hoarse 2. Dote on 3. Vapors 4. Act the ham 5. So be it! 6. Patch up 7. Second self (2wds.) 8. Spring mo. 9. Hawaiian wreath 10. ____ Francisco 11. Association (abbr.) 17. Genesis location 19. Psychic inits. 22. School gp. 23. Grease 24. Sucker 25. Overhead trains 27. Adjusted to
34. "Heidi" setting 35. Savings account user 38. Capture back 39. Short skirts 44. Nonstop 47. Statue base 51. Queue 52. Greet 53. Snaky letter 54. Perpetually 55. Ledger entry 56. Actress Sandra ___ 57. Gull's kin
surroundings 28. Make lace 29. Pres. before HST 30. Southern general 31. Fitting 32. Squeezing snake 36. Snow runners 37. Apt. divisions 40. Small landmass 41. Unsophisticated 42. ___ tube 43. Violonist Isaac ___ 45. Example 46. Other than 47. ___ Beta Kappa 48. Devour 49. Game cube 50. Shade tree
We live on the front lines of heaven coming to earth!
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You can relate to the scatter-brained people and work together with them to create something great. You can focus in on the most important ideas and voice your opinion without hesitation. Don't hide in the background. Make your voice heard.
Your overall mood is quite good, but communication with others seems to be off. You are dancing around the issues instead of getting to the heart of them. Instead you should penetrate straight to the bull's-eye. You will be commended for doing so.
Your thinking is right on target, but your overall mood is making you insecure about expressing your thoughts to others. You are hesitant to act since you aren't feeling especially confident on the inside. Have faith in yourself. Others certainly do.
Your mind will deceive you today. Most likely, your thoughts are centered more in fantasy than in reality. Bounce ideas off others before moving forward with something you have just conjured up out of the blue. Others will help set you straight.
Your mind is moving a mile a minute, but your thoughts are clouded. Be careful of what you tell people today. You are likely to get your facts mixed up, thereby getting yourself into a bit of trouble later on. Be more cautious with your words.
Your indecisive nature is going to be worse than ever today. Looking to other people for advice is only going to confuse you more. Thoughts are going to get tangled up in your head and you will not be able to think straight. Go home early.
Using your charm to sweet talk others into getting what you want isn't likely to be as effective as usual. It will only make people resent and resist you. You are better off being honest about where you are falling short and what your needs are.
You may feel like your lucky stars are letting you down today. Where are they when you really need them? Don't worry. They will be back in a few days. For now, just lay low and try not to get upset or frustrated when things don't work out as planned.
Make sure you double-check your sources today. Much of the information that comes to you will be severely tainted by the source that it comes from. Someone is biased because he or she stands to gain a great deal. Don't be a pawn in his or her game.
You are feeling a bit discombobulated and out of sorts with the environment. Something you say to one person is likely to have a negative effect on someone else. Try not to say anything if you can help it. Keep your opinions to yourself.
You may have a solid plan worked out in your mind, but someone else's confused ideas are getting in the way and making you second guess your ideas. Don't doubt yourself. Have faith that your thinking is sound and that you are on the right track.
Take a more creative approach to your work today. Write things down in a graphic, colorful way instead of in a straight list with bullet points. If you have a presentation to make, liven it up with vivid charts and diagrams instead of just words.
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CR OSSWOR D
Sudoku Puzzles are games of patience, numbers and genius! The satisfaction of solving a challenging Sudoku Puzzle is one of the greatest accomplishments any sudoku game player can experience. The rules are simple, fill in the blanks so that each row, each column, and each of the nine 3x3 grids contain one instance of each of the numbers 1 through 9.
Here is the puzzle. Good luck!
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THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA
Greetings | Business
JANUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL
Happy New Year!
A Meaningful Life is Traced Through the Gladly Thrown Smile
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Great Smile Family Dental from our staff: Bright Smile Family Dental Thorncliffe Dental Clinic
Peb celebrates birthday at Palabok House Restaurant in Edmonton with family and friends.
GEMMALYN celebrated her birthday last December 22, 2019 at the Palabok House Family Restaurant in Edmonton. Her natal day marks another year of her life and the number of friends and family gathered to celebrate with her, as well as the presence of a very special someone beside her will keep her heart felicitously pounding even until the day after forever.
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Religion | Points of View | Business
JANUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL
“New Year, New You” 2019 has gone. Another 365 days are over. By the way, how was your 2019? Whatever happened, let us learn from it, for we cannot undo it. What I am trying to tell you guys is: do not live in the past. Stop looking back. "No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." (Luke 9:62) We are not going that way, so forget the past. We are not determined by it. Do not lose your present to your past. Replaying the past over and over again will only ruin our present. Year 2020 is here and it is telling us that a brand new future awaits us. As we welcome 2020, please try not to repeat things that hurts! Never repeat the same mistakes again. You know what? It is not a mistake to make a mistake. But it is a mistake to repeat the same mistake. Therefore, cry as much as you want to, but just make sure that when you are finished, you never cry for the same reason again. When we make a mistake there are three things we should do about it. First, admit it. Second, learn from it. And finally, do not repeat it. A mistake repeated more than once is a decision. Our best teacher is our last mistake. This 2020, please make a good and smart decision by never repeating the same stupidity again. “Don't repeat it but repair it.” My dear brothers and sisters, mga kababayan at kaibigan, it is never too late to start again. No matter how hard the past was, we can always begin again. Start with God and end it with God. On the other hand, liturgically speaking, January 1 is actually the Solemnity of the Motherhood of Mary. As we start the year, we open it by remembering all the mothers. Why? Because we cannot be human without a woman. We are here because of a mother. For Jesus to become human, He needed a human mother and that is Mary. She is known as the “Theotokos” meaning the bearer of Christ. As we open this year, we are challenged to start by becoming like a “Theotokus.” Friends, bring only Jesus, not your pride. Bring Jesus, not your arrogance. Bring Jesus, not your anger, resentments and disappointments. Carry Jesus,
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JAN THE MAN’S NOTE
‘The Oilers Skills Competition’
S 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.
not your sins. Carry Jesus, not your wickedness. Bring Jesus, only Jesus and always Jesus! Let me end my reflection with this prayer: “May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord let His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. May the Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace.” My dear kababayan, pronounce this prayer to all of your family and friends. Let us start this year by blessing each other. Have a happy and Holy New year folks. New Year, New You! Blessings, Fr. Jhack
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unday, December 29, 2019. The annual Oilers skills competition was back on display at Rogers Place. Despite going through a slump leading up to the skills competition, the Oilers managed to entertain the fans with an exhibition of their world-class skill as well as to show appreciation for the fans’ continuous support throughout the season thus far. The first event of the afternoon was the coveted ‘fastest skater’ competition in which all of Rogers Place betted on Connor McDavid to win again. However, there was a surprising outcome as new Oiler, Joakim Nygard, whom the Oilers signed this past off season, won the event with a time of 14.014, beating McDavid’s time of 14.041. Who knows, maybe McDavid is saving his speed for the NHL All-Star game being held on January 25, 2020 in St. Louis, Missouri. It is important to note that Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl will be representing the Edmonton Oilers at the event this year. Another exciting event of the Oilers skills competition was the ‘Hardest Shot’ event where Matt Benning once again reigned as the champion, defending his title from last season’s skills competition. Benning clocked his slapshot at 104.1mph beating out fellow Swedish defenceman Oscar Klefbom’s shot at 101.4mph. Moreover, another fan favourite event of the day was the ‘King of the Shootout’ challenge which included many exciting and creative goals put on display by the Oilers. In the end, BC native Jujhar Khaira managed to beat out the team and be named King of the Shootout for this year’s skills competition. Lastly, in the ‘Accuracy Shooting’ competition, James ‘The Real Deal’ Neal managed to beat out his competitors by going 4/4 in
Januel Cedrick Ibasco Januel Cedrick Ibasco is a proud Filipino-Canadian and is currently a student at the University of Alberta studying for a Bachelor of Arts in Recreation, Sport, and Tourism in the Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation. Sportsmanship is a big slice of his cake. He is highly-spirited when playing golf, volleyball, and basketball and loves reading, writing and volunteering at church. Jan looks forward to taking up law after his undergraduate degree.
less than ten seconds. Neal of course was involved in a trade this past off season for Milan Lucic, and by the looks of his current numbers, he has clearly made an impact this season. With just over 30 games left in the season, the Oilers are making a push for the playoffs. The annual Oilers skills competition served as nice, fun day for the fans and the team. But with the playoffs only a couple months away, the Oilers will be grinding out every point for the rest of the season. Go Oilers Go!
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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL JANUARY 2020
THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA
JANUARY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL
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THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA