Alberta Filipino Journal - January 2018 Issue

2018 is secured when character is nurtured.

Dr. Joel San Agustin's new clinic

Amy Sundberg a Recipient of Canada’s Senate 150th Anniversary Medal P16

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Rian is Wayne Gretzky Awardee Smiles are on everybody's face in the Filipino community after learning that Rian Santos is this year's recipient of the Wayne Gretzky Award.

The 14-year-old from St.Rose Junior High comes from a sports loving family with two of her siblings, Reece and Hunter also very active in hockey. The youngest, Dylan, is still seven years old but don't be surprised if he gets into sports action too.

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Hermo Pagtakhanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Emotional Reunion with Cardinal Tagle P6 Exciting Alberta Medical Supplies-H&B game; Possible Part3 Media-Southtown Hyundai team merger P14

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

BUSINESS

JANUARY 2018

JANUARY 2018

RELIGION | BUSINESS

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Novena Masses, Devotion and Feast of Jesus the Black Nazarene in Edmonton

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s we finished celebrating Christmas Day rejoicing the birth of our Saviour Jesus Christ, the Knights of Columbus Nazareno Council No 12904 embarked on a 9 evening Novena masses from December 29 till January 8 in honor of their Council namesake and Patron Saint Jesus, the Black Nazarene or popularly known as PoongHesusNazareno in the Philippines.

A Novena and Feast Day organizing committee was formed by Grand Knight Bro Armand Bernabe.

This year’s committee chairman is Nazareno Council Adviser, Past State Deputy and Former Master of the Fourth Degree, Sir Knight Bro Lito Reyes together with his wife Mrs. Juliet Reyes. Nine (9) other Nazareno couples made up the committee. The chairman assigned one couple every night as

The Novena Committee

the Hermano and Hermana whose roles were to ensure the whole evening was in order and all aspects of the mass, novena and fellowship were looked after.

Nazareno Council is fortunate and thankful to its Chaplain, Fr. Joby Augustin, Pastor of the Twin Parishes of St. Agnes and St. Anthony for allowing the council to hold the novena masses mostly at St. Anthony Church. Each night, Major and Minor Sponsors, Food Sponsors, and all mass ministries were providedand filled by Nazareno Council family members. Fr. Joby Augustin and visiting priests Fr Silvichen Dominic, Fr Joselito Cantal and Fr NiloMacapinlacpresided the novena masses assisted by Nazareno Council Deacons Tony Obleada and Gem Mella. Right after the mass, the novena prayer

The committee chairman Bro Lito Reyes, PSD and Council Adviser

Fr. Joby Augustin blessing the Black Nazarene

Robert Croteau

Fr. Nilo Macapinlac

continued on page 7 Ź

The devotees paying respect to the Black Nazarene

Lito Velasco

7KH ÀHVWD GLQQHU

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

VOLUNTEERISM | BUSINESS

Serviceability Magnifies Felicity

During the Christmas Season, the 630 CHED SANTA ANONYMOUS had once again initiated its annual gift-giving project. Mostly, children almost all over Edmonton were their beneficiaries. Assorted toys depending upon the recipient’s age brackets, were wrapped through the help of volunteers.

The Congress of the Philippine Associations of Alberta, Alberta Filipino Journal, and TAO Canada, had joined efforts, devoted their

JANUARY 2018 time and services as volunteers. They were tasked to repack thousandsover-thousands of gift bags intended to be distributed or delivered to the designated recipients. The pile of these gifts was stored at the Santas Depot-630 CHED Santas Anonymous, 12122 68 Street in Edmonton.

Happiness is contagious. Let the entire society be affected by this good virus!

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JANUARY 2018

EDUCATION | BUSINESS

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

How the World Education Services (WES) Helps in my APEGA Registration?

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

Mervin Cereno is a Filipino Engineer, Academician and Entrepreneur who choose to migrate in Canada. He got his Provisional License* as Professional Engineer from the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientist of Alberta (APEGA) only after 8 months from the time he landed to Canada in March 2016. Presently, he is pursuing Master’s Degree at the University of Alberta. For pieces of advice and queries on licensing procedure in Alberta you can contact him through email at cereno@ualberta.ca. *Provisional License are granted after satisfying all the requirements of the APEGA Board of 'LUHFWRUV H[FHSW WKH 2QH <HDU &DQDGLDQ ([SHULHQFH LQ WKH ÀHOG RI HQJLQHHULQJ

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ome Filipino Engineers who migrated to Canada lacks information on how to be

recognized their profession upon arriving in Canada. Some of them are misinformed that they can

readily apply their education and experiences and practice their professions. For those who expect that migrating to Canada will be an easy career transition, they end up frustrated and accept their fate working in odd jobs.

In the past issues of the Filipino Journal, I have enumerated all the necessary steps and procedures that an Internationally Educated Engineer must take. Most articles are information that known to most of us, but do not take the first step of moving it forward.

Now, the question is where do I start?

For those who recently migrated to Canada, the World Education Services (WES) credential evaluation used in the Citizenship and Immigration Canada application is your first ticket to move forward. WES is the only academic-assessment agency recognized by APEGA, and only International Credential Advantage Package (ICAP) reports are accepted.

A WES assessment that states you have a "4-year undergraduate degree" is only the first step in the academic assessment process.

APEGA's Board of Examiners must also conduct a full review of your academic credentials.

The WES ICAP Report verifies the authenticity of your academic documents and establishes the

equivalent level of your academic credentials compared with the Canadian University system. But the APEGA’s Board of Examiners needs to review further your degree to ensure that is a degree in engineering and geosciences, it also confirms the acceptability of the course content and performance of your degree.

To meet the APEGA’s BOE requirements, the individual should apply to WES and upgrade the initial report used in the CIC to WES ICAP Course-by-Course Evaluation. To obtain the WES ICAP Report, you have to register for APEGA’s Member Self-Service Centre (https://www.apega.ca/ login/), create your login ID and

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this ID number will be required to order your WES Report. Follow the instructions to continue to the WES website for the next step of the application process. If you already have an evaluation report from WES, you may need to upgrade that report to an International Credential Advantage Package (ICAP).WES will send the completed evaluation report directly to APEGA digitally.

Physical copies will not be accepted

by APEGA. By the time you completed this first step, there are more things that you need to do – but the good thing is you are one step ahead of what you are in the past. For those who are “enjoying” their chosen career, it is never too late to gain your professional designation - after all it is not the money that matters but it is the fulfillment that you can carry on deep in your heart.

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

INSPIRATION | COMMUNITY

JANUARY 2018

Hermo Pagtakhan’s Emotional Reunion with Cardinal Tagle "MEMORY is WHAT MAKES our lives! Life WITHOUT Memory is NO LIFE AT ALL. WITHOUT it, we are NOTHING!!!" (Anonymous) HERMO PAGTAKHAN’S UNEXPECTED REUNION WITH BEST FRIEND AND CLASSMATE PHILIPPINE CARDINAL CHITO TAGLE. Our kababayan, HERMO PAGTAKHAN, with his wife BAIDA and daughter JEZZA visited the Philippines last December 2016 to celebrate his 60th birthday along with his brother Doctor LOUIE, sister-in-law EMELIE and family.

One of the highlights of his trip was being able to reunite and catch up with his best friend and elementary and high school classmate LUIS ANTONIO, Cardinal "CHITO" TAGLE, when family friend. Fr. Ollie G. was able to arrange an audience with the Cardinal.

Alberta Filipino Journal’s JOSE JUN ANGELES asked HERMO to describe his emotional reunion with the Philippine Cardinal.

HERMO: “WOWWWW! I can tell you now, mere words are not enough and could not describe how we both felt upon seeing each other again after more than 40 years after we left high school and went on our separate ways to college. The feeling was one of MIXED emotions with excitement, nostalgia, joy, etc. The experience was VERY MAGICAL! It was as if we were both transported back in time...back to the 60s and 70s when we were still both in elementary and high school. All I can say is, there was a feeling of deja vu and “JE NE SAIS QUOI"!

HERMO continues: “All I can say is thank you, thank you, Lord! We

are super-super blessed to have had the golden opportunity to visit, chat and laugh with glee with my BFF and Elementary and High School Classmate Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle at the Cardinal's Official Residence in Manila, as we recalled Fond Memories of our student days in St. Andrew's School. Cardinal Chito even prayed over my wife, BAIDA. “A very big thank you as well to our family friend, Fr. Ollie G. for arranging an audience with the good cardinal, to my sister-in-law in the Philippines, Emelie Pagtakhan, brother Dr. Louie Pagtakhan, and nephews Dr. Igi Boy Luis Miguel and Louie Boy Louie Emmanuel for coordinating the visit, providing us with transportation and thereafter, treating us to a sumptuous lunch at the Top of the Bay Leaf Hotel.

As and by way of bonus, while having lunch, we also coincidentally met with and shared a few moments with my U.P. VANGUARD Fraternity (and Kamandag '77 Classmate), Brod Justice (Philippine Court of Appeals Senior Justice) Pol Bruselas and another Vanguard Brod Leo (who is Corps Commander of Class 1987).”

AFJ: Any Final thoughts, HERMO? HERMO: “Yes, I just want to share this message to your readers especially for this coming Christmas and New Year: Life is so unpredictable.

Sometimes we feel disappointed and break down when our plans go awry. Then we need to apply a broader perspective: perhaps God has a better PLAN in store for us.

In the case of Cardinal TAGLE – he initially dreamed of becoming a physician but because of a life-changing event, he instead became a priest and eventually a cardinal (and God willing, a future Pope).

"THE CARDINAL & YOURS TRULY then (circa 1969)!"

This is a Page from our St. Andrew's School 1969 Elementary Graduating Class Souvenir Year Book showing both Cardinal Chito's Photos and of yours truly. Can you spot our respective Photos?

conitued on page 15 Ź

Emma The Musical Fundraising

by Jea Cawagas Cates

On December 10 over 170 Edmontonians gathered in Max’s Restaurant, West End for the fundraising open mic night dinner to support Emma the Musical. This musical will be premiered at the Myer Horotwitz Theatre, University of Alberta, on July 7th, 2018. Written

by Chie Floresca and featuring original music composed by Erica Cawagas, the musicalis set in a rural town near Baguio City, Philippines during the Japanese occupation in WWII. Chie Floresca is a writer for ABS-CBN television dramas in the Philippines. Her body of work includes Ipaglaban Mo, Pasion de Amor, A Beautiful Affair and Engkwentro which won in the 2009 Venice Film Festival. In 2004 she wrote and directed the musical Dula at Kwerdas staged at the Citadelin Edmonton.

Erica is an accomplished classical guitarist who has won gold medals in many competitionsand composed music for UNICEF and PEMSEA East Asian Congress. She is currentlyscoring a children’s television show for ABS-CBN Knowledge Channel.

Emma the Musical focuses on the character of an elementary

school teacher – Emma, who must make difficult choices between the peaceful life that she struggles to live and the war that rages around her,between risking her personal safety to protect her community members or hiding in the shadows to safeguard her own fleeting security. The musical highlights the perseverance, faith, and resilience of the Filipino spirit,in peace or in war.

While the lyrics and dialogue are in English, the musical features music and conversation reflecting Filipino values and influences, though the

writers also emphasize the universality of the themes of complex human and social relationships even to present times and in other places.

Well-known Filipinos in the Edmonton community attended the fundraiser, including Josie Pallard, Project Director of the Filipino-Canadian Saranay Association;Noreen Berkes, Executive Director of Changing Together;Dr. Rebecca Benzon of Millwoods Cedars Family Dental Centre and owner of Max’s Restaurant;Roujea continued on page 11 Ź

ARTS | BUSINESS

JANUARY 2018

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

Behind the Masks of the Girls of the Crazy Sexy Cool (GCSC) Victor Hugo said that Laughter is the sun that drives winter from the human face. Within the Filipino circle, there is a group gaining increasing popularity and following, very visible in most Filipino events and concerts, and headlining their own shows bringing laughter and fun to their audience. This group is the Girls of Crazy Sexy Cool (GCSC).

The GCSC is a trio of transgender performers: Isabella Araneta-Marquez, Jerome Salvador Weissbach in real life, a retail manager with Guess; Mimi Flowers, aka John Cabarrus who works in Hospitality at the Matrix Hotel; and V’gina Grande, aka Juven Paul Somcio, also a retail

manager in another Guess location.

Isabella and Mimi met about four years ago while doing individual guestings, and then formed the group The Girls of Crazy Sexy Cool as a comedy and singing act at the Panciteria de Manila, with the prodding of Bayani Alcantara.

The trio then consisted of Isabella, Mimi and Megan Starr (by Jerome Martinez, who has since returned to Manila, and replaced by V’gina Grande).

“Dying is easy, comedy is hard” is a popular quote with actors. With this group, not only do they face the challenge of making people laugh but simultaneously hurdle issues of prejudice on their gender orientation

and subsequently, their capabilities.

The GCSC was initially formed as a way of having fun and as a form of personal expression. After a couple of years, this objective evolved into gaining more popularity and fame.

But lately, it has transformed into an altruistic objective of bestowing joy, respite and a sense of affinity with their audience. And it is this latter purpose that propels them to forge ahead, taking into stride the negative perceptions and viewing every critical comment as a chance to improve, to focus on the positive aspects and to remain true and authentic to their passion and identified calling.

To the outsider, it may seem to be all fun and games for this trio. But cognizant of the difficulty they have hurdled individually and as a group, and in anticipation of impending challenges to attain bigger dreams, they work hard. Show or no show, they have committed to meeting at least twice a week to brainstorm, practice their songs and choreography, and work on their styling to fine tune their acts. Their lives rotate around the GCSC so much that the daily encounters are now a source for their acts where an observation, a simple event or a thoughtless remark is immediately jotted down and worked as a spinoff or punchline for future acts.

They are serious with their craft,

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL and they aim to be taken seriously as performers. Their journey of four years has taken them beyond their expectations - from individual guestings as a hobby, to becoming fillers then regular front acts for shows, and finally, headlining their own shows and touring these shows. They are surprised by their popularity, of being recognized in public places, and are deeply touched by their audience’s heartfelt regard of them, relayed face to face or via social media. A shining moment was when they were personally acknowledged and applauded by Martin Nievera in his concert.

However remarkable these achievements are to them though, they are unanimously grateful for the intangible benefits they derive from the group. For the GCSC is not just an entertainment act for them, but a sisterhood as well. They bond both as performers and as their regular selves.

Their work process is one of collaboration and reinforcement.

Each brings in their own expertise and personality - Isabella, the nonsinger, is the host and business strategist who loves being the shock factor of the group; V’gina, who is the youngest, is the dancer and rap artist who loves urban pop fashion; and Mimi, is the belter, the experienced singer and eternal optimist, who loves nature tripping. They are co-workers but more importantly, they are friends. The group is close

knit and has become a supportive avenue in their personal journey, for self-exploration, self-validation and self-empowerment.

And now, fortified and sustained, they dare to dream on. They aspire to be regarded as professional artists by learning more of the technical aspects of their craft; to be instrumental in the understanding of gender roles and stereotyping by using their own stories in their acts; and to be a positive example of self-discovery, of persistence and overcoming challenges.

Like the two masks of theatre, I have discovered through my onstage and offstage encounters with them, that the Girls of Crazy Sexy Cool is a study of contrasts. They are timid but at the same time bold.

Insecure yet courageous. Humble in their approach and proud in their accomplishments. All these translate into being strong enough to make themselves vulnerable, and to overcome hurdles to come out stronger - traits that are respectable and admirable. With their costumes and make-up, they command a powerful presence. But behind the mask, in person, they capture you with their personal stories of resilience.

Yes, these are The Girls of Crazy Sexy Cool. They are daring enough to be crazy, confident enough to feel sexy and smart enough to be cool.

To comment on this article, go to http:// thelucilaproject.blogspot.ca .

Novena Masses, Devotion and Feast of Jesus the Black Nazarene in Edmonton for PoongHesusNazarenoare recited with the singing of the iconic PoongHesusNazareno Naming Mahal and Nuestro Padre HesusNazareno.

After the novena, an exposition of the Blessed Sacrament is solemnized.

Fellowship and socials after the mass and novena conclude every night.

The culmination of the Novena masses is the Feast Day of PoongHesusNazareno which was

celebrated on Tuesday, January 9 with a Holy Mass at St. Agnes Church celebrated by Nazareno Chaplain Fr. Joby Augustin, concelebrated by Fr. NiloMacapinlac and assisted

by Deacons Gem Mella and Tony Obleada. Honor Guards from St Michael Assembly provided the 4th Degree regalia colors headed

by Commander SK Teddy Tuazon and FN SK Manuel Ibasco. Right

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after the mass, a potluck dinner was served at the Merchant Hall of St. Agnes. Over 200 guests, some as true devotees of the PoongNazareno even back in the Philippines, attended the dinner and the short program which included testimonials from individuals of the healing and miraculous powers of Jesus the Black Nazarene.

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POINT OF VIEW | AFJ STAFF | GREETINGS

JANUARY 2018

The Nostalgia of Instant Noodles and Food that Remind You of Home GENERAL POINT OF VIEW GISELLE GENERAL gqgeneral@gmail.com

Giselle General came from the cold, mountainous region on the Benguet province, and immigrated to Canada as a teenager in 2007. After completing her Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Alberta, she now dedicates KHU EXVLQHVV WUDLQLQJ WR WKH QRQSURĂ&#x20AC;W VHFWRU ERWK LQ HPSOR\HG DQG YROXQWHHU 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.

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stared at my window, and then to our thermostat that displays the outside temperature. It has gotten colder than â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 20 degrees, my goodness! It certainly is the season of warm foods, comfort foods, and being cozy and relaxed.

Food is certainly a great source of comfort. It can be because the dish fills your belly with warmth like a soup or stew, or because the

ingredients and flavors bring up memories and positive associations.

As a child, I used to operate a sari-sari store in the Philippines while living with my grandma.She initially purchased it and gave it to my mother as inheritance. With my parents gone but us children were left behind, managing the store went back to my grandma and it became our place to live and

work. Together, we performed the routine tasks to ensure that we are stocked with items to sell so we can continue to make a living.

She preferred having healthy, homemade food, but when there is just no time to do so, we would cook a few packs of instant noodles from our inventory and have that as our meal. Sometimes, this happens during a full day of shopping and restocking inventory, so we were just busy with other tasks. Or it would be during the typhoon season when it is unsafe to walk to the market to buy fresh items. As a child, I look forward to having instant noodles, because for a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s palette, it tastes so good!

Seeking out comfort is not always as easily accessible coming to a new country. My first year in Canada involved learning to toast frozen waffles, running a grill without burning the meat, and ensuring that whatever I am reheating does not explode in the microwave. These methods of preparing and consuming food were experiences I had to get used to. In my luggage coming to Canada, a large portion was taken up by snacks and food to be given as gifts, since apparently, they are not available here and would make my relatives who were already living here very happy.

It felt incredible when I first discovered that some Filipino products

can be purchased here, mostly the manufactured ones such as chips, cookies, canned food and instant noodles. I learned the existence of larger grocery stores that offer these products. And that there are also smaller ethnic grocery stores that exist as well.

My brother was just as thrilled. As he slowly embraced the responsibilities of adulthood which involved buying oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own groceries, he started to stock up on packs of instant noodles as well. We would even have chats on which brand names of instant noodles are available in those stores.

Then we would compare it to the brand names of instant noodles that we use to sell in our store.

You see, cooking and eating instant noodles were not just a means to reconnect to what was familiar it terms of diet. It was also a bittersweet remnant of our childhood years, with all its challenges. There were times when instant noodles were all I can afford to buy and cook. Then I would attempt to make it more filling by eating it with rice, and

make a feeble attempt to make it healthier by adding an egg or two.

In recent years, there is an increasing range of opportunities to experience Filipino cuisine.

Multiple locally run restaurants have emerged, as well as popular franchises setting up shop. In some grocery stores, there is a noticeable amount of space taken up by baked goods from local companies. It was awesome where I first heard of a food truck that served our cuisine.

I would still argue though that the most popular way to enjoy these types of food is during special occasions or in someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home.

My guilty pleasure junk food is instant noodles, and will likely continue to do so. I know of many others who would associate simple foods that make them feel the same, whether it is dried or smoked fish, shrimp paste, or certain snacks.

Feeling nostalgia and warm fuzzies is certainly something we seek out and deserve to experience every once in a while.

60th Birthday SoirĂŠe at Fantasyland Hotel Published by Angeles Publishing Company Inc. 246 Lindsay Crescent, Edmonton, Alberta T6R 2T2 Jose L. Angeles 3XEOLVKHU &KLHI 2SHUDWLQJ 2IĂ&#x20AC;FHU Sales & Advertising CP: 780-916-7677 Landline: 780-988-8889 Fax: 780-988-2221 (PDLO SXEOLVKHU#DOEHUWDĂ&#x20AC;OLSLQRMRXUQDO FRP Lito Mendoza Velasco (GLWRU LQ &KLHI $VVRFLDWH 3XEOLVKHU 780-655-5126 HGLWRU#DOEHUWDĂ&#x20AC;OLSLQRMRXUQDO FRP Melanie Rose Atizado Angeles $GPLQLVWUDWRU 2IĂ&#x20AC;FH 0DQDJHU Sales & Advertising Lianne Angeles Proofreader Melanie Gomez Dionzon Web + Print Designer Photographers/Videographer Noli Granado, Dario Juanillo Columnists: Marjorie Carmona-Newman, Tito S. Venida Ida Beltran-Lucila, Katrina Marielle U. Cereno Kristian Cereno, Marco Luciano, Moses Billacura Mervin Mendoza Cereno, Dario Juanillo Rod Cantiveros, Erlinda Dolly Tan Rosalyn Estoque, Perry Diaz Contributing Writers: Giselle General, Paul Briones, Joel Ventura San Agustin The Alberta Filipino Journal is dedicated in memory of Rosalinda Linsangan Natividad-Cantiveros of Winnipeg as she engaged her entire life servicing 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 UHDGHUV GR QRW LQ DQ\ ZD\ UHĂ&#x20AC;HFW WKRVH RI WKH 3XEOLVKHU (GLWRU

Congratulations Joy on your 60th Birthday Milestone. A classy Gatsby style celebration was held on December 22, 2017 at the Fantasyland Hotel.

RELIGION | BUSINESS

JANUARY 2018

The Absurdity of a New Year’s Resolution “Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take WKRXJKW IRU WKH WKLQJV RI LWVHOI 6XIÀFLHQW XQWR WKH GD\ LV WKH HYLO WKHUHRI µ Matthew 6:34 KJV

From a Vantage Point TITO S.VENIDA

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

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ave you ever made a New Year’s resolution that you were able to keep till the end of the year? MAYBE NOT! But as for me, I’ve never made a New Year’s Resolution and I won’t be making one this year either. Why? Because it’s absurd! Think about it: A resolution, or a promise, is a Big Deal. And when we make them with the entire year ahead of us, well--that's quite a long haul.

Plus, January and February are just dreadful months and an awful time to have to keep our resolutions.

But people go ahead and make dumb resolutions anyway and 99% of the time these resolutions are not kept.

Remember this: When we make a promise, that promise is going to weigh on us. It's only going to make us do the opposite because we’re going to be thinking about the promise all the time. When we make a resolution, we're our own worst enemies. We're going to be fighting our own selves.

Now, let us look at our text, Matthew 6:34, as it applies to the making of a New Year’s Resolution.

Take therefore no thought for the morrow: We can find the reference to this in Proverbs 27:1, where it says, "Boast not thyself of to morrow: for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth."

A man cannot promise or assure himself, that he shall have a tomorrow. Therefore, it is great absurdity and folly to be anxiously thoughtful about it. This is expressed in the sense of the Lord Jesus Christ's words, after this manner: "Do not distress thyself with tomorrow's affliction, for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth; perhaps tomorrow may not be, and thou wilt be found distressing thyself, for the time which is nothing to thee.''

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Quality Sleep Care co-founder praises creation of PBSA

By Moses Billacura

And should it come, it is, therefore, unnecessary to be thoughtful of it in a distressing manner before hand.

For the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself.

The morrow is here introduced by a "prosopopeia", as if it is a person sufficiently thoughtful and careful for the necessaries of it. Every day brings along with it fresh care and thought, being attended with fresh wants and troubles.

Consequently, it is very unadvisable for a reasonable man to bring the cares and troubles of two days, a week, a month, or even a year, upon one day. However, people are anxiously concerned today for the things of tomorrow.

Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

This proverb is thus expressed in this manner: "Sufficient for distress or vexation, is the present time."

Sufficient for the vexation it is, that men should grieve for it, at the time that it comes upon them.

And so, it is very wrong to anticipate trouble, or meet it before hand. If it was for no other reason but this, that every day's trouble is enough, and should not be needlessly added to, by an over concern what shall be done for tomorrow or how shall the necessities of it be answered, or the trials of it be endured.

Here's one way to approach this year and every year: Let us not allow ourselves to get too carried away on any front. Let us try to live fully but moderately. Let us avoid excess whenever we can.

Quality Sleep Care's co-founder and marketing director Kris Salumbides in a speaking engagement in Edmonton.(Photo by Moses Billacura)

EDMONTON --- Quality Sleep Care's co-founder and marketing director Kris Salumbides praised the creation of the Philippine Business Society of Alberta (PBSA).

"We are happy to see that this has happened. We wish the PBSA officers, members and future members, as well, all the best as we continue to work hard in growing our businesses," said Salumbides, a native of Quezon Province, who along with his business partners, runs QSC,

Alberta Medical Supplies(AMS) and the recently-opened Medicus Family Clinic and Pharmacy.

Salumbides said that Alberta as a province is constantly growing in population that will give Filipino business owners more opportunities to offer their services to all Albertans.

Philippine consul-general for Alberta and Saskatchewan provinces, Julius Torres wished also the new group's success and encouraged other business owners to join and strengthen the organization.

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

PARA-LEGAL SERVICES | IMMIGRATION | BUSINESS

JANUARY 2018

Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Lottery System Continues Despite Outrage from Sponsors From Migration to Immigration MARJORIE CARMONA NEWMAN info@mcncanadaimmigration.com 780-758-2045

Marjorie Carmona Newman is a REGULATED CANADIAN IMMIGRATION CONSULTANT based in Edmonton, Alberta. She currently serves as Prairie Chapter representative for Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC) in the Governance and Nomination Committee and Education Director for CAPIC Prairie last year.

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hose who wish to apply to sponsor their parents and grandparents in 2018 must first fill out the online "Interest to Sponsor Form" starting January 2, 2018 up to noon of February 1, 2018. However before filling out the form sponsors must ensure that they meet the sponsorship eligibility requirements. This one month period gives sponsors a chance at one of the 10,000 spots that allows them to apply to sponsor their parents or grandparents.

This lottery system replaced the old system which was a first

come-first served process last year.

This new system received criticisms from sponsors upon learning that some people picked in the 2017 pool did not meet financial requirements and other qualifications set by Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

According to IRCC, the introduction of a new application intake process for the parent and grandparent program aims to improve people's access to the application process by making it more fair and transparent. As per IRCC's report, over 95,000 people completed the "Interest to Sponsor Form" between January 3, 2017 to February 2, 2017 which demonstrated the popularity of the PGP. Of the 95,000 IRCC randomly chose 10,000 sponsors and emailed them inviting them to submit the Sponsorship application. Those who were not randomly selected were also informed by email of the results.

IRCC said that a limit on applications is necessary in order to address the existing backlog in the processing of the applications.

In 2016 alone, the number was

doubled from 5,000 to 10,000.

These 10,000 applications represent approximately 17,000 people, as a sponsorship application can include more than one person.

Below is the number of applicants in the parent and grandparent backlog by year Year 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Number of Applicants 129,697 138,512 150,951 167,007 125,599 87,027 72,007 50,661 40,511

With the increasing interest in the Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP), the annual 10,000 application limit is necessary to ensure the backlog doesn't grow again according to IRCC. The limit ensures that new applicants have the chance to apply, while the levels plan for parents and grandparents ensures enough are processed each year so that processing times are reasonable and the backlog is further reduced.

Immigration, Refugee and

Citizenship Canada Minister Honourable Ahmed Hussen recently said that the government is committed to family reunification. He added that helping more people reunite with their parents and grandparents in Canada demonstrates the government's commitment to keeping families together, leading to successful integration and stronger ties to Canada.

The online form is available until Feb 1st 2018, when IRCC will remove duplicate submissions and randomly select potential sponsors, who will be invited to apply.

Parents and Grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents can also apply for a super visa, a multi-entry visa that provides multiple entries for a period up to 10 years. It allows an individual to stay for up to two years on initial entry into Canada while, while a 10 year multiple entry visa would only have a status period for each entry of six months only.

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

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JANUARY 2018 From page 6

Cawagas, Music Director of Artist House Studio;and long-standing performing arts leaders in Alberta Ida Beltran-Lucila, the musical’s artistic director and Jojo Lucila, the musical’s choreographer.

Jojo Lucila choreographed for Philippine Ballet Theater and Hong Kong Ballet. In Canada, he was Artistic Director and founder of Chameleon Dance Edmonton, together with Ida Beltran-Lucila.

He also taught and choreographed Edmonton Festival Ballet, Victoria School, and the Ukrainian Shumka Dancers and received a City of Edmonton Cultural Diversity in the Arts award.

Ida Beltran-Lucila was a Ballet Philippines principal dancer and Associate Artistic Director of Philippine Ballet Theater and President of the Association of Ballet Academies of the Philippines, among other positions. In Canada, she was Artistic Director of the Edmonton Festival Ballet, program Director of the Edmonton Filipino Fiesta and Founder and Executive Director of the Philippine Arts Council Alberta.

Selected by audition, the cast comprised of experienced Filipino-Edmonton singers, dancers,and first-time performers areDanielle Yu,Julius Ylagan, Gerald Penaco, Jimmy Buena, Jeanine Naboye, Raphael Tolentino, Micah Macatangay, Mark Laraya, Catherine Lelis, Riana Torrejon, Cassandra Baltazar, Hannah Adamson, Lauren Lizada, Marjorie Galido, Joshua Zoleta, Veronica Knodel, Jo-Ann Aguilar and Simonette Brigola.

After the Max’s buffet dinner, a video trailer was shown to raise awareness of the background and story of the musical. The cast entertained the guests with a selection of Filipino and English songs. Cristina De Guzman of the Edmonton Arts Council started the open mic with her inspiring words followed by a performance of the Philippine Choral group.

The musical is co-sponsored and/or supported by several

COMMUNITY | BUSINESS

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

11

Photo potpourri by the Journal

Quezonians in Edmonton led by Journal publisher Jun Angeles (far left, sitting) and their guests gathered recently at the Rollymie restaurant for a fellowship and later on, dancing and karaoke to spice up the night. (Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

-RXUQDO HGLWRU /LWR 9HODVFR H[WUHPH ULJKW IRU WKH ÀUVW WLPH JUDFHV WKH +LPLJ 3LQR\ V Tahanan ng OPM radio program, Jan.15, hosted by Rolan Latorre(2nd from left) and Jo-Ann Aguilar. Joining them is Moses Billacura, Journal columnist and photographer.

(Photo by Tony)

associations, individuals, and businesses, including the Filipino-Canadian Saranay Association, Philippine Arts Council, Max’s Restaurant, Four Points by Sheraton, 3J’s Variety Store, retired Edmonton teacher Carolyn O’Brien, Social Photobooth, and Artist House Studio. Emma the Musical has recently been recognized for its artistic contribution to the city through a cultural diversity grant from the Edmonton Arts Council.

Guests enjoyed the fundraising

event and left with much raised hopes and eager anticipation of watching the musical’s premier on July 7th at the Myer Horowitz Theatre. Follow Emma the Musical on Facebook at Instagram @mimayemmafor information on the musical and purchase of advance tickets. The Production Manager Roujea Cawagas and Co-Producer/Composer Erica Cawagas are happy to respond to queriesabout the musical at emmathemusical01@gmail.com.

SGF Travel and Tours' Chie Febra (4th from right) is joined by other Filipino business owners led by Kris Salumbides of Quality Sleep Care (far left) during the SGF Travel and Tours Clients' Appreciation Night, Jan.6, at the Sejong Hall. (Photo by Moses Billacura/ AFJ)

May Tiongson prepares a Quickly Premium Bubble Tea during the SGF Travel and Tours Clients' Appreciation Night, Jan.6, at the Sejong Hall. (Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

COMMUNITY | ANNOUNCEMENT | POINT OF VIEW

JANUARY 2018

New Year’s TRAIN and Migrant Pinoys in Canada Migrants' Voices MARCO LUCIANO mluciano2@gmail.com

Marco Luciano is the Global Council Representative of Philippine based Migrante International.

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

H

appy New Year! The New Year seems to usher in difficulties for our kababayans back home. One hot topic in the Philippines at this time which concerns those difficulties, is TRAIN. No, it has nothing to do with locomotives. TRAIN or Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion, which was once seen as a means to alleviate poverty, is now being criticized as anti-poor and the Philippines’ lower and middle class are bracing themselves for the effects of this tax reform. Kababayans here in Canada should have their ears to the ground, as we will also be feeling its effects.

What is TRAIN or the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion? The Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) was signed into law by President Rodrigo Duterte on Dec. 19, 2017 and impacts the take-home pay of Filipinos, prices

of goods and services, and spending and consumption.

How does it affect Filipinos?

While TRAIN was promoted as a deduction of income tax and increase in “take home pay”, it also includes higher taxes on basic commodities. This means that for high-income earners such as those in upper management, presidents and CEOs of big corporations, their take home pay will significantly increase.

On the other hand, many Filipinos like the owner of a karinderia who do not have a monthly salary, will be dependent on the informal economy through retail or the services of tricycle and jeepney drivers or, employees in small stores and sidewalk restaurants. Many of their customers are also from the informal economy. It simply means that they will not benefit from the higher “take home pay” because of

lower income tax and the lack of a monthly salary. Meanwhile, their expenses will significantly increase.

Think about this.If the corporate CEO of a big company bought a luxury car, say a BMW that costs Php3.25 million, they will be saving approximately Php337,000.

However, if the owner of a small karindera needs to go to the market to buy supplies, they have to pay an added jeepney fare of Php4 to Php8, return trip. The cost of their supplies, such as cigarettes, will also see an increase of up to Php2.50 per pack while soft drinks will increase up to Php12 per litre. Due to these increases, the owner will need higher capital funds.

Inadvertently, the karinderia owner and her fellow poor customers will be paying for the savings of the CEO’s luxury car.

A jeepney driver will pay an additional Php2.50 per litre of diesel while a tricycle driver will pay an additional Php2.65 per litre of gasoline. The owner of the karinderia will be paying an additional Php11 per 11kg tank of LPG. What about the farmers and the fisher folks in the rural areas?

In recent statistics, these individuals are in the 34% poverty incidence compared to other sectors. They are dependent on kerosene that they use for light, cooking and work. Kerosene will increase to Php3 per litre, the highest among the petroleum products.

There are over 15 million workers in the Philippines that do not have a regular monthly wage, like someone who works in a small sari-sari store, a labandera or tricycle driver. We have not even taken into account the approximately 2.4 million unemployed workers.

But even the ordinary workers or employees will not benefit from TRAIN in the long term. There will be no pay increase but they will also carry the burden of higher prices and expenses. These high prices will also deduct from the so called “high take home pay” of workers.

What does that have to do with me?

Many of us are here in Canada today for work. Whether we are a citizen, immigrant or temporary foreign worker, we continue to support our families back home.

Thirty percent of the over 103 million Filipinos in the Philippines are dependent on migrant remittances.

Many or our kababayans here still

send most of their salaries to their families back home. In the records of Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas in 2015, over US$1.5 billion was sent

by Filipinos in Canada.

TRAIN will put a lot of pressure on migrant workers and families here in Canada. Many will be pushed to find a second job or take longer working hours in order to subsidize the expenses of their families back home.

Migrant workers that are under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) will be the most affected among the Filipinos in Canada. Many, if not all of them, are separated from their immediate families. They will be forced to find other means that will allow them to send money to their families even if it means violating the conditions of the TFWP. Filipinos in Canada must also look into matters that affect the Philippines as it directly affects us.

The Consul General Bringing +LV 2IÀFH WR WKH &RPPXQLW\

RELIGION | BUSINESS

JANUARY 2018

On September 20, 1519, a fleet of five galleons commanded by Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan at the service of the king and queen of Spain set sail from San Lucar de Barrameda to search for the Spice Islands. They did not find these islands.

Instead, they landed in Limasawa, a small island south of Leyte in the central part of the Philippines. Magellan took possession of the islands which would later be named after King Philip II of Spain.

Magellan's expedition headed for Cebu and found the island very hospitable. He made Cebu the base of his exploration, Christianization and conquests. King Humabon and Queen Juana of Cebu gave him a warm reception and embraced Christianity as well. In gratitude for their hospitality, Magellan agreed to join forces with king Humabon, who was at war with a neighboring tribe on Mactan island. Magellan was killed in the battle and his men returned to Spain. Their expedition set a record as the first one to circumnavigate the globe.

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Faith Shared Is Fate Paired Katrina Cereno is a senior high student at St. Francis Xavier.

She spends her time writing and is interested in arts, photography and music. She looks forward to becoming an engineer. Kat lives in Edmonton, Alberta with her family.

Spain sent another expedition to the Far East Region. Because of the Cebuanos’ suspicion that the Spaniards had returned to seek retribution for Magellan's death, another battle broke out. However, the Spaniards’ heavy artillery and cannons forced the natives to flee to the mountains, leaving behind their villages which were burned to the ground. As Spanish soldiers surveyed the debris of the village, a soldier found the unscathed image of the Child Jesus in a wooden box under a pile of ashes.

Magellan’s memoir writer and companion during the expedition, Antonio Pigafetta, detailed the origin of Santo Nino in his journal: "On the day Queen Juana was baptized by Father Pedro Valderama, chaplain of that expedition, Pigaffeta himself presented her with the Image."

The same Image now lies in the Basilica del Santo Nino and is a favorite destination for millions of pilgrims each year. For four and a half centuries, the Image of Santo Nino continues to make wonders in the lives of many Filipinos. On the third Sunday of each year in Cebu, millions flock to the streets for a colorful festival honoring the Santo Nino and placing the Island and the entire Philippines under His Patronage.

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During the last World War, a bomb fell inside the Church but the Image was recovered unscathed. It was one of the numerous miracles and powers attributed to the Holy Image.

In 1965, the historic Santo Nino Church was renovated for the observance of the Fourth Centenary of the Christianization of the Philippines held in Cebu City. It was during the centennial celebration that the Sacred Congregation of Rites elevated the Santo Nino Church to the rank of Basilica Minore with all the rights and privileges accorded to such title. http://www.santoninodecebu.org/history.html

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SPORTS

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

JANUARY 2018

Exciting Alberta Medical Supplies-H&B game; Possible Part3 Media-Southtown Hyundai team merger 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 is an Edmonton Oilers fan.

T

here were six Division finals last January 7 in the Philippine Sports Association Fall/ Winter Basketball League sponsored

by Crosstown Auto Centre. And the most exciting game to watch was the Division 2A finals between Quality Care Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Alberta Medical Supplies and H&B. Why? Because it was the only game that day that went into overtime!

If only Francisco de Leon of Alberta Medical Supplies was able to make the shot in the last three seconds, they could have won their first crown.

However, it was not their day that Sunday afternoon at the jampacked Archbishop Romero gym.

The cheering fans from both squads went crazy because of the tight ballgame until the H&B veteran players just took charge and never looked back in the extra period en route to a 97-91 win.

AMS marketing director Kris Salumbides, business partners Jacob Christian and Jesse Tallon led the cheering squad that day. Probably in the next season, I hope AMS will have a coach who can draw up the plans and hopefully, they will clinch their first title and avoid another heartbreaking loss. Right Ka Rolan Latorre of Himig Pinoy-Tahanan ng OPM? *** Congratulations to the PSA under president Gary Perpetua for another successful tournament.

All the hard work on weekends in serving the basketball community went smoothly as scheduled. We did not see any players hurt and everyone enjoyed each game, specially

the family members of the players who came to cheer them every weekend.

This corner would like also to congratulate the other Division champions like Changes for Hope which defeated Boba, 81-59 in Division 2B, Cameron Homes which beat Team Morinville, 105-90 in Division 2C, Crosstown Auto which outscored H&B, 102-77 in Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Division A, Pinoy Auto Loans which subdued Millwoods Warriors, 9489 in Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Division B and PSA McGee which stopped the Knights, 97-76 in the Open Division 1.

Perpetua and coach Ches Tiongson, who represented Crosstown Auto dealer/principal Joe Medina, awarded trophies too to the MVPs and Mythical Five members for each Division.

Forward Jojo Malagum emerged as MVP in Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s A and the Mythical Fives are guards Mark dorado of Crosstown, Joe Simon of Prestige Vision, forward Mark John Daquioang of Amirax, center Johnathon Roquel of Luzviminda.

Forward Marlon Boado bagged the MVP honors in Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s B and the Mythical Fives were guards Wayne Agbang of Pinoy Auto Loans, Jesse Aguilon of Millwoods Warriors, forward Jay Andrada of Gallery Dental and center JR Perpetua of SBP. Best coach was Evan Alonzo of AMDG. Guards Alvin Corpuz of La Derma Skin Clinic, Jarrel de Jesus of Morinville, forwards John Ray Camat of La Derma, Ivan Balala of Cameron Homes and Center Jeric Giron of Cameron Homes shared

Alberta Medical Supplies players with their team managers Kris Salumbides(5th from right), Christian Jacob(7th from left) and Jesse 7DORQ WK IURP OHIW DIWHU Ă&#x20AC;QLVKLQJ Ă&#x20AC;UVW UXQQHU XS LQ WKH 3KLOLSSLQH 6SRUW $VVRFLDWLRQ 36$ )DOO :LQWHU %DVNHWEDOO /HDJXH -DQXDU\ 7, at the Archbishop Romero gym. Joining them are Benjie Lindo, AMS Edmonton manager Mia Mulingtapang and staff Rhoda Martinez(extreme left). (Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

honors in Division 2C with Yros Astorga of Cameron awarded the best coach honors.

In Division 2B, guards Brian Leyte of Changes for Home and Rhay Villarosaof Team Rolly, forwards Josh Parcasio of Hanjan Restaurant and MVP Joven Datu of Industrial Athlete and center Ivan Valina of Boba Island were picked in the Mythical Five. Best coach was Jhun Caballero of Boba Island. In Division 2A, Mythical Five members were guards Nico Yola of Akatsuki, Floyd Eyao of H&B, forwards Lem Baui of Amirax and Sam King of Alberta Medical Supplies, center Jazz Sanghera of Edmonton Eagles. Best coach was Alvin Mapa of H&B. Forward Virson Orquez of the Knights emerged as MVP in Division 1 and joining him in the Mythical Five are guards RJ Librea of Crooks and Juffrey Sumpaga of Knights, forward Lem Baui of PSA McGee, center Josh Santua of Crooks. Voted best coach was Darren Perez of the Knights. *** Part3 Media is a photography and video company formed by Jomari Denuro, Red Angelo and their Kuya Will.

Aside from their awesome projects like shooting for Filipina actress Kim Chiu, products Nike, Puma, and Google, they were able

36$ ),1$/ $OEHUWD 0HGLFDO 6XSSOLHV .DUO /RSH] 1R Ă&#x20AC;QGV KLPVHOI ZHOO JXDUGHG LQ WKLV Ă&#x20AC;QDO JDPH DJDLQVW + % $06 Ă&#x20AC;QLVKHG Ă&#x20AC;UVW UXQQHU XS DIWHU ORVLQJ WR WKHLU ULYDOV LQ overtime, 91-97, January 7, at the Archbishop Romero gym.(Photo by Moses Billacura/ AFJ)

to achieve a spectacular feat in 2017 too, that is winning a basketball title in â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Gatheringâ&#x20AC;? League at the ERBC gym.

Coach Paolo Quirante did a very good job in building the team that included veteran players Warren Guillen and Oliver Branzuela and with a good line-up, they were able to annex their first title.

Jomari, who is also a videographer for TFC Balitang Amerika with regular reporter and Journal writer

Marjorie Carmona-Newman and working as a sales professional at Southtown Hyundai along 99 Street, said that talks are ongoing on a possible merger between Part3 Media and Southtown Hyundai in the formation of a better basketball squad this year.

A â&#x20AC;&#x153;Southtown Hyundai/Part3 Mediaâ&#x20AC;? team? Why not? It looks like it is going to be an exciting team. Right Corey?

Rian is Wayne Gretzky Awardee

By Moses Billacura

Rian, whose family roots are from Quezon Province in the Philippines, took ice hockey as a sport at the age of five and as the years progressed, she excelled in soccer too.

Last year, she was recruited to play in Phoenix and Montreal and will see action in the Alberta Winter Games.

Rian was among the young Albertans nominated for the award for her exemplary performance in sports, academics and community service.

The alternate captain and one of the leading scorers of the Southside Athletic Club Bantam doube-A team has been active in the Coats for Kids campaign that supplies underprivileged children and their families with warm clothing in the winter season.

The Santos family's "wonder girl" received the award last January 9 at Rogers Place, the day that

made the Filipino community proud specially her loving grandmother Fely. "I am very proud and I can't

describe the feeling," a very happy grandma told the Alberta Filipino Journal.

OPINION | BUSINESS

JANUARY 2018

FROM A TEENAGE EYES KRISTIAN CERENO Kristian Cereno is a Grade 9 Student of St. Mark’s Catholic School in Edmonton. His hobbies include writing poem, composing songs, playing volleyball and in the long run, hoping to learn hockey the Canadian way….

S

ome people says that New Year is a new page/new beginning of their lives. Some people believe that this is a sign to leave all the “bad vibes” from the past.

Some people say that New Year is just the same as the other years.

But I believe that New Year is a continuation of the things that we already started. Sometimes, we experience good things like making a group of friends that we can treat as family. Sometimes, we have things that we regret but all of those are in the past. In short, all of our faults and mistakes can be corrected and be given a second chance.

2017 was a tough year for me but it taught me so much lessons that I can use in the future. I must admit, I made so much decisions in 2017 that led me to make mistakes

from page 6

Hermo Pagtakhan’s Emotional Reunion with Cardinal Tagle As for myself, I dreamed of serving the people through the legal profession. I became a lawyer and did serve the people but by force of circumstances due to a life-changing event, I had an epiphany, I had my discernment and eventually, I saw the Light. I have now metamorphosed into being a Servant Leader (a “Fisher of Men” so to speak), a Steward (of God’s Blessings) and Herald of Hope.

We are two different persons, the Cardinal and myself. Two different paths. Two different roads travelled.

But we have one common destination.

The conclusion we get from all of this then is: As we journey through life, in everything we do, let us seek our way but be open to what life offers to us. Not everything is under our control. In the Cardinal’s case, who would have thought the young boy who once dreamed of becoming a doctor would become a priest and later become Cardinal?

Let’s not forget that God may have a BETTER PLAN for us which is beyond our finite understanding.

Indeed, God works in mysterious ways.

Thank you Mr. Jun ANGELES and Alberta Filipino Journal for this opportunity to share my Magical Experience and deliver my Christmas Message. Allow me please Greet your dear readers: “A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL and we are praying that 2018 will be a New Year Full of BLESSINGS and renewed HOPE for all of us!”

yet I still did good things that I believe was right. 2017 was not a joke for me. I experienced so much hardships but I somehow overcame some of it. 2017 was just not about the negative stuff that happened – positive things have had happened to me and my family. I was able to encounter a number of new friends and a number of blessings. In a nutshell, we may not go back to the time on where we did our faults and errors but we can still correct it and treat it as a lesson.

2018 had just yet started and

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New Year, New Me? will still have more surprises to come. We may not know what would happen but I can assure that there would be stunning and shocking events that would happen. We still have more decisions and choices to make. I, myself, made wrong decisions and choices in my life.

As a youth, we are most likely to make wrong choices because we are just children who are just starting to live in this world – we are not mature enough yet. 2018 would be exciting for us because a new year means a new blessing. Do we really have to change this year? Do we need to believe in the saying,” New Year, New Me”? That is why we need to keep our heads up this year and maintain our optimistic point of view because it is the best way to celebrate the New Year with a Bang!

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INSPIRATION | GREETINGS

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

JANUARY 2018

Filipinos Success' Stories:

Kaya Ko, Kaya Mo! ,I , FDQ <RX VXUHO\ FDQ

By Marjorie Carmona Newman

Amy Sundberg a Recipient of Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Senate 150th Anniversary Medal

I

t is often found that a personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s achievements in the community is shared by the entire community. This tenet is exemplified by how members of the Filipino community rejoice and rally together for every MannyPacquiao fight.

Here in Canada, the growing Filipino community is brought closer with the achievements of people who have navigated the challenges of migrating to Canada and never stopped pursuing their dreams. One of those notable people is Amy Atienza Sundberg, who was awarded the Senate 150th Anniversary Medal.

Historically, the Senate 150th Anniversary Medal is a medal which commemorates the anniversary of the first sitting of the Canadian Senate which took place on November 6, 1867. The honor is by the Senate who wishes to recognize the achievements and efforts of 12 individuals who share their generosity and selfless dedication through volunteerism and community service.

Amy Atienza Sundberg was chosen as one of the 12 awardees by Senator Yonah Martin,

SENATE 150 MEDAL

Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Senate.

A dear friend of Senator Martin, Ms. Sundberg embodies the passion for service in the community and volunteerism. Her dedication shines through the numerous volunteer activities, in particular as serving on the board of St. Markâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Corpus Christi colleges, and supporting the Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation.

Moreover, she established the Victor J. Sundberg Memorial Bursary at the Simon Fraser University in 1992 to commemorate the memory of her late husband. She is also the recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.

Ms. Sundberg is an exemplary role model for the Filipino community, illustrating the ideals that are rooted in our culture, that of generosity in time and talent and stewardship.

We are very proud of Tita Amy as I fondly call her.

Tita Amy is humbled - and very proud - to be recognized in this way by the Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Senate.

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

Natalia Hinojales Aseron - 100 YEARS OLD 1 Century of Pure Blessings, 10 decades of Memories, 1200 Months of Happiness, 4800 Weeks of Love, 36,500 Days of Wisdom, 797,718 Hours of Laughter.

Under the cold spell of winter, Edmontonians celebrated the New Year, but one family celebrated the end of 2017 for another very special reason.

On New Year's Eve, FilipinoCanadian Natalia Aseron celebrated a significant birthday milestone by turning 100 years old.

Natalia Aseron is the matriarch of her family. A wonderful Grandma with two incredible children, sixteen amazing grandchildren, thirty-four marvelous great-grandchildren and thirteen awesome greatgreat-grandchildren, Natalia

Aseron was born on Dec. 31, 1917 in Bacolod, Philippines.

She moved to Batangas, Philippines in her mid-teens and was married to a very popular Batangueno politician at the time. She relocated to Canada in 1985.

She had two children but outlived them both. Her husband passed away roughly 60 years ago. Natalia has 16 grandchildren and 37 greatgrandchildren living throughout Canada, the U.S. and the Philippines.

Her passions involve caring for her grandchildren and her great-grandchildren. Up until two years ago, she lived alone in a condo with a caregiver. She moved to a nursing home in late 2015.

Our congratulations to Natalia on this momentous milestone in her life.

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EDITORIAL | BUSINESS

JANUARY 2018

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

17

TELL YOUR LIFE’s TALES EDITOR’S CORNER

by Lito Mendoza Velasco

L

istening to the stories from our kababayans is what keeps our community going, growing, and glowing.

Our excitement level is enhanced whenever we hear someone is sharing what has been vicariously or actually experienced. From all walks of life, different life testimonies became the objects of sadness as well as laughters. Some are comedians, others are dramatic. Regardless of their deliveries, we definitely learned from them. And, that’s the most important of all. Yet, there are two-sided presentation and impact: We idolize or antagonize.

To fairly welcome the 2018, the Alberta Filipino Journal Team has conceptualized a new method of bringing people at the frontline.

As you can see, this Journal has been serving as your medium of communication, catering different sources of informations from prolific writers and columnists.

Their imaginations and fields of expertise know no boundaries.

In the previous years, our team had spoken to you, taught you a lesson, brought you some ideas

how to deal with life squarely and with equanimity, made you aware about our few kababayans successes and triumphs through the Alberta Filipino Journal, free of charge.

This year, a touch of innovations will be presented to you. Where you are the actors and actresses on stage and we are your viewers or audience..

The AFJ, through the help of the Philippine Media Association of Alberta (in the making), will be inviting and encouraging each one of you to join in our conversational program entitled: A FORUM THROUGH A COLUMN. Your editor-in-chief is very much willing to welcome your stories or Life’s Tales without any prejudices. Just write at least 300 words to tell your stories. Be direct to the point. You may use bulleted or numbered informations about yourself. Expose your life’s ups and downs, the lessons you’ve learned, and the pieces of advice to yourself in preparation for your future plans.

He who participates in this program will automatically be qualified to compete with other story-senders. Awarding Night will be

held in one of the prestigious Filipino Restaurants here in Edmonton (a sponsor); First, Second, And Third prices will be awarded to the Winning Stories to be given by the generous sponsors.

So, what are you waiting for our dear kababayans. You may start sending your stories now to editor@albertafilipinojournal.com or publisher@albertafilipinojournal. com. Once selected, that will be published in our next ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL ISSUES. oooOooo Minamahal na kababayan, halika na at tayo ay magkwentuhan.

Anong gusto mo, ikuwento mo ang istorya ng buhay mo o iku-kwento ko ang istorya ng buhay mo? Ang saya nito kabayan ko!

Paano ba isusulat ang kwento mo?

Sundan mo lang ang gabay na ito: 1. Sino ako, ilang taong gulang, binata, dalaga, biyuda, may asawa, o sawi?

2. Tagasaan ako sa Pilipinas?

3. Bakit ako nasa Canada?

4. Nais ko ba ang estado ng aking buhay sa kasalukuyan?

5. Ano ang plano ko para sa akin o kinabukasan ng aking pamilya, kasintahan, o kinakasama?

6. Natuto ba ako sa kwento ng buhay ko? Anong maipapayo ko sa sarili ko para matutunan ng iba?

7. Ito po ang maikli, subalit makabuluhang bahagi ngbuhay ko.

Kabayan ko, dahil ipinagkatiwala mong ipalathala ang kwentong buhay mo, kasali ka sa pagpipilian upang tanghaling huwaran at Pinaka-Makulay ang Buhay.

lupon ng hurado na siyang pipili ng pinaka-nakakabagbag damdaming istorya. Hindi po ito MMK; kundi, PALABASA (Pinili Akong Labanan Ang Buhay Ayon Sa AFJ).

Sa buwan ng Distembre ng bawat Taon, magkakaroon tayong Isang Gabi ng Parangal para sa ang Buhay ay may Aral. Mag-uuwi ka ng mga gantimpala mula sa ating mga isponsor. Magtatalaga tayo ng

Ano pang hinihintay mo kabayan ko, sumulat at magkwento ka na!

Ipadala sa email address na ito: editor@albertafilipinojournal.com o publisher@albertafilipinojournal.com

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ARTS | CULTURE | POLITICS

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Legacies of outstanding Alberta Nurses to be recognized nationally Publish by CARNA

CARNA will nominate Teresita (Tessie) Olivia, Muriel Shewchuk and Margaret Ethier to be recognized in the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) Memorial Book. The Memorial Book honours deceased nursing leaders who have elevated the nursing profession and health care.

Teresita Olivia was a respected leader who worked tirelessly to mobilize social support in the Filipino community and in the larger multicultural community in Alberta. She founded the Filipino Nurses Association of Alberta, which supported international educated nurses in gaining licensure in Alberta.

Muriel Shewchuk was a major force in moving operation nursing ahead as a specialty. She played a key role in developing national nursing standards, leading her

Spending the Holidays in India

By Minister Sohi

Teresita Olivia

Muriel Shewchuk

own teams in becoming certified and forming the Operating Room Nurses Association of Canada.

Margaret Ethier was a union activist and tireless advocate for nurses.

As president of the United Nurses of Alberta, her strong leadership was instrumental during the tumultous, strike-filled years of the 1980s.

Margaret Ethier

I hope that the start of 2018 finds you well and that the holiday season was festive, fun, and restful.

Over the holidays my wife Sarbjeet and I travelled to India on our first family vacation since before I was elected. It was an opportunity to reflect on a busy year and reconnect with family and friends. As a proud Canadian who is deeply grateful for all of the

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JANUARY 2018

opportunities our country has given me, this trip was a reminder of how much our countries have in common, despite being a world apart.

We spent some time in my home village of Banbhaura in Punjab, visiting my sister and her family in their village of Rauni,and meeting up with childhood friends. Just like many small, rural towns in Canada, the community spirit there is strong and vibrant. So many of the village activities are driven by groups of engaged citizens working together to make their communities better places to call home. I had the opportunity to spend time with one group in my village who volunteer their time to provide recreation opportunities to the children of the village. Without their hard work, many of the kids would not be able to participate in sports like soccer or volleyball. They are even working together to build a local stadium to allow more people to take part.

Later in the trip, we travelled to the city of Agra to spend some time with friends. When I lived in India, I never had the opportunity to visit the Taj Mahal and was thrilled finally be able to make the journey. It was a moving and memorable experience, made all the better because I was able to share the experience with Sarbjeet and our friends. I hope to be able to return one day for another visit.

India is continuing to develop and, like most places, continues to face its share of challenges. Most people don’t enjoy many of the everyday things that we take for granted in Canada.

But, despite this, the generosity and resiliency of the Indian people always inspires me. It is another way that our countries are alike and makes me proud that I’m able to call both places home.

The relationship between Canada and India is underpinned by our shared values of democracy and pluralism and continues to strengthen through expanding economic engagement and international cooperation. More than 1,000 Canadian companies are now doing business with or in India and that number continues to climb. Canada is also home to more than 1 million Canadians of Indian heritage, who contribute every day to the diversity, vibrancy, and productivity of our communities. The strong personto-person relationships between citizens in our two countries bodes well for an even stronger relationship moving forward. There are also lots of opportunities for Canada and India to work together to promote our shared values of diversity and inclusion, women’s rights, and engagement on the international stage.

In the next couple of weeks I will be heading back to Ottawa to continue working on your behalf. I am looking forward to the opportunity to continue to serve and encourage you to reach out if I or my office can be of assistance throughout the year.

JANUARY 2018

THE PHILIPPINE SOCIETY IN ALBERTA | BUSINESS

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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The Filipino-Canadian Saranay Association of Alberta Presents: Filipino-Canadian Citizens tribute to Canada 150 Celebration (Part 1)

Josephine Pallard Retired Teacher Founder and Board Member of the Filipino-Canadian Saranay Association of Alberta and Founder of Changing Together Good morning ladies and gentlemen, my name is Josephine Pallard, and I am one of the founding members of the Filipino-Canadian Saranay Association of Alberta. Today, we are celebrating the 150th Anniversary of Canada, and we are going to pay tribute to Filipinos who came as immigrants 50 years ago. Many of us came as economic, at the same time maybe educational immigrants, because we know that at that point there was a need for us to really be out of our country, knowing that there was so much turmoil at the same time the economic aspect was so poor. Here in Canada, we were given the chance to really improve who we are. And with all these people that you will hear today, our Hon. Consul Esmeralda Agbulos, and our board of directors from the Filipino-Canadian Saranay Association, we have to let you know all of the challenges, the struggles, and the successes that we have while we are in Canada. I would really want to tell you that because of the goodness, the kindness, and the beautiful open heart and mind of Changing Together, at the same time with the help of many nonprofit organizations, our Filipino Community in Edmonton flourished.

We thought we are only here to preserve and to retain our heritage, but we evolve into service agency, and many of us now are helping our new generation of Temporary Foreign Workers, our caregivers, and even our international students.

I will just want to let you know that 50 years ago, we started the Philippine Bayanihan Association then followed by the Federation of Filipino Associations in Alberta, then followed by many others. To this very day, there are 32 Filipino community associations here in Edmonton.

We would really want to say thank you Canada for all the good things that you have given us because Canada is our hope. It is not just a land of freedom. It is not just a land of prosperity, but it is a land, where you can really call your own.

So tonight, ladies and gentlemen, please help me welcome and say thank you to Canada through the testimonies of many of our people that you will hear. Thank you Canada for letting us stay and making us happy as citizens of this country.

Good bye for now.

Esmeralda Agbulos Retired Teacher and The Philippine Honorary Consul General of the Philippines in Edmonton and surrounding area My name is Esmeralda Agbulos,

presently the Philippine Honorary Consul General of the Philippines here in Edmonton, and neighboring areas. I came to Canada as a very young teacher, whose dreams and ambitions are to find a place, where I can go to school, attend university, teach, and be of service to whomever will come my way. So for the past 33 years, I taught at Sherwood Park Catholic Schools, became a Religious Education Consultant for the district, and in 2003, I was appointed as the Philippine Honorary Consul General here in Edmonton.

For 15 years, I have been serving the community, because God has been so good to me including Canada, Alberta, Edmonton, and where I live Sherwood Park. I firmly believe that when I first came here as a young teacher, you need to work very hard, you need to have the ambition, you need to have the dedication to be of service to everyone including the people that you work for. I serve as a teacher, and in my capacity as a teacher, I nurtured the young minds that came my way. There were so may of these children that I taught in Sherwood Park, who still remembers me today. It’s a blessing when you see them anywhere and they come to you and introduce themselves to you as one of the former students. But the blessings is always bountiful, because when I was appointed as the Philippine Honorary Consul General here in Edmonton, I realize that the blessings is not only for the Philippines that we have to give but also for the people of Canada. We came from a country that nurtured us with love and commitment that have raised us to be a good citizen. We came to Canada and we should not forget that and I have not forgotten it, why I’m here. Canada has been a very good place. It has also nurtured our dreams, our ambitions, and with hard work, and with the people behind us, who would support us, we could do whatever we want to do to help everyone. As part of the Philippine Government, I did so many projects that I have looked at to be of service to the Philippines – we did Payatas, we built houses, we built classrooms, we were there for their calamities and everything.

We raise money for them. But, in fairness, we have helped and we will always love the Philippines, but we always love also the place where we at right now. Recently, I did a fund raising to conquer hunger here in Edmonton, and of course, people responded and we raised a lot of money to feed hundreds of children for one year. I always believe that when you receive, you have to give more. So that, if you received a hundred percent of blessings, you have to give back a thousand more blessings. So in my life here in Canada, I am very very blessed.

I am blessed with a good family,

my husband, who is also devoted and who is also believed in what I am doing; he is a best partner that anybody can have. But also, I have a good community, the Filipino Community that I will serve and continue to serve faithfully. They are very supportive, and they are always there whenever there is a need. But not only that, Canada especially in Edmonton, you find people that do not look at the color of your skin, that do not listen to the language you speak, there is this bond in the community that really sees you for who you are. You serve the community they’re always thankful.

I have met so many people here in Edmonton and also in the province of Alberta. I have met the officials from the Federal government, the Provincial government, and the City government. I’ve worked with them for 15 years. And they never failed to answer the call whenever a call is put out to help, not only the community but also Canadians as well. I am here to serve not only the Filipinos but also to serve Canadians who want to go an experience life in the Philippines, and lo and behold they come back, and they have great things to say about the Philippines.

They enjoy the beauty of nature, but

most especially, the hospitality of the people in the Philippines. The Philippines is knows for its hospitality.

It is the best place to receive a smile, the smile of friendship and loyalty in Asia. But here in Canada, we also experience that I am very thankful for being able to come to Canada, for being able to come from the country like the Philippines. We are certainly blessed and I thank God that we are here, we are receiving the blessings, we are here having able to serve whoever we have to serve. And in my capacity, I will continue to serve the community the best way I can. I am not going anywhere, I am going to be with you, all of you to be of service to everyone. Thank you and God bless everyone! God bless Canada for 150 years of existence! I know that this is the greatest country in the world and we have chosen the best place to live. Thank you.

Cesar and Gloria Daus Current President of the FilipinoCanadian Saranay Association of Alberta and recently Retired And Current Board Member of the Filipino-Canadian Saranay Association of Alberta and recently Retired Nurse Manager at the

University Hospital Cesar: I’m Cesar Daus. I’m recently retired. I’m presently the president of the Filipino-Canadian Saranay

Association. I came to Canada 41 years ago, because I believe Canada provides us with the greatest opportunity for a better life to establish a good family and a good future for my children.

Gloria: Hi, I’m Gloria Daus. Currently, retired as a manager at the University Hospital few months ago. We came to Canada to enjoy the future of

our family, and [be] able to give good education, opportunities for our children, and of course, at the conitued on page 20 Ź

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

from page 19

The FilipinoCanadian Saranay Association... same time upgrade my profession as a nurse.

Cesar: As a new comer in Canada, there are lots of challenges. One of them is how to adapt to the Canadian way of life. Another one is the cold weather. But as we go on with our life we were able to adapt and adjust what the Canadian way of life.

Gloria: Yes, as a new comer, too, I agree with my husband. Our challenges is the cold weather, however one of them is also the challenges is the Canadian way of live, but because of the Canadian people around us we’re able to adapt and accept the style of living here.

Cesar: When it comes to failure, my failure was as a Canadian is I was not able to practice my professional career as a nurse in the Philippines due to my family priorities. However, I was able to provide my family all the necessities need to have a better future. I was able to work for the City of Edmonton for 36 years.

Gloria: As a mother, and new comer in Canada, one of my biggest disappointment or as a failure was I was not able to spent my time and attend to my growing family in a daily basis due to my dedication of my work at the same time upgrading my skill to pursue my career as a registered nurse in the Philippines. Due to my passion

of work, I was able to run the outpatient department surgery at the University Hospital and at the same time run the Edmonton Clinic at the Department of Rehabilitation.

Cesar: As an ambassador to Canada, when I visit the Philippines I usually encourage my friends, and families to migrate to Canada, cause I believe and I told them that Canada will provide them with a better future and a better family.

Gloria: Yes, I agree with my husband, I would also encourage my family, friends, and relatives due to the great benefits of Edmonton, like health care system, great pensions, education, child care supports, lots of things, and is one the best safe city to live in, Edmonton.

Cesar: To give back to Canada, I provide volunteer services to the needs…

Gloria: and lots of community events. And I also participated for the recruitment of nurses from other countries for the Alberta Health Care Services. I did a lot of fund raising for the community services, just like the Laryngectomy Fund for the health care patients.

Cesar: I’d like to thank Canada for providing us this opportunity. Thank you and Happy 150th Birthday!

Gloria: Thank you Edmonton for the good opportunities to enjoy with the community.

Tessie Picardal (Ed Picardal) Registered Nurse and a Board Member of the Filipino-Canadian Saranay Association of Alberta

COMMUNITY new, like the students with their career. Thank you Canada and Happy Birthday!

Hi, I am Tessie Picardal, and I’m married to Ed Picardal, who is the vice-president of the Saranay Association. We came here to Canada in 1969 hoping for a better life and also a better job. I went to Lakravech, which is a small town.

And it was really kinda hard to go in a small town for the first time, because we didn’t have any family, and there were not much Filipinos there at that time. So, that’s one of the challenges [was] to adjust to the Canadian way of life. Luckily, everybody was so good to us that I was able to adjust properly. I’m a nurse and from Lakravech, I went to Ontario for two years and I came back to Edmonton, and I have been working as a Nurse at Royal Alex since 1974. I’m still working as nurse, and I think that it is a good success for my part, because I was able to adjust and practice my profession in here. I am very thankful to Canada for giving me the opportunity to come in here and be a part of the country as a citizen. I am a member of the Saranay Association. As far as I can say, I am good member of it, and we sometime do some activities at church, and even [at] school for my grandchildren and for my kids when they were in school. And for my job I take part and teaching the

Jose Angeles Financial Planner, EIC of Alberta Filipino Journal, Founder of the Filipino Seniors Association in Alberta, the Filipino Retirees Association of Alberta, the Quezonian Club of Edmonton, and Congress of the Philippines Associations in Alberta (COPA), and current President of COPA My name is Jose Angeles commonly known as Jun Angeles. I came to Canada from the Philippines on June 1, 1969 as a young fresh college graduate from University of Santo Tomas with a Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service. I was barely 20-year-old, full of dreams, no work experience, looking for whatever life will lead me in my new adopted country. This coming year 2018, it will be my 49th year in Canada.

I consider myself lucky to be given the opportunity to live in Canada and I would like to thank my elder sister, Irene Angeles Emmanuel, a teacher, for sponsoring me to Canada. Presently, I have a company in Financial Planning catering to the needs of families in the form of providing insurance and investment.

Dream big, the bigger the better.

I dream of being successful and at the same time have fun. I took whatever the road may take me. I want to travel and see the world.

Canada at that time was just a developing country and Edmonton was just a small city with few buildings.

From Edmonton Airport, where I landed, you can see the CN Tower from afar, a landmark building in Edmonton.

To make a story short, Edmonton was just a small city barely nothing to brag about. After working in Edmonton as a provincial employee of Alberta, and while working with the Alberta Government, I took Business Administration courses at NAIT, paid by the government of Alberta where I worked. I moved to Toronto for better opportunity.

Canada has so much things to offer, I worked and save money and spent my money traveling that leads me to USA where I had the opportunity to work at the United Nations in New York. Instead, I chose to become a salesman for Belkraft International Ltd. a cookware company in Windsor, Ontario.

Selling these housewares leads me to a lot of places across the continent and Europe. My traveled to different places gave me a perspective in life, and seeing life in other countries, I choose to still come back to Canada, where I can breathe easier, and live a simple uncomplicated lifestyle.

Being a salesman gave me the opportunity to gain experience and enjoy my youthful years traveling across the world. Thanks Canada for the opportunity.

I came back to Edmonton to join my sisters, and brother, where Edmonton is considered my permanent home.

Got married with three children,

JANUARY 2018 and left the cookware business and trained as a life insurance salesman with New York Life.

This time it’s a different ball game in life. TO be successful, you need not only people skill but knowledge in financial studies. Aside from being University graduate and with Business Administration, I took professional designation like gaining the Chartered Life Underwriter, Chartered Financial Consultant, and Certified Financial Planner. I earned numerous awards and went to a lot of conferences given by the company. But it did not come easy, it’s working hard and smarter, and usig the skills I experience in life.

I am presently still have a company with my daughter, Melanie, continuing the tradition of helping our community in Financial Planning.

My hobby right now is publishing the Alberta Filipino Journal, and an ethnic newspaper catering to the community.

How do I repay Canada for kindness?

Well volunteering and helping the community, in general. I founded different organizations, the Filipino Seniors Association in Alberta, the Filipino Retirees Association of Alberta, the Quezonian Club of Edmonton, and Congress of the Philippine Associations in Alberta, in which I am presently the president.

Dream Big, Travel, Study Hard, and Have Fun. Canada, you have given me that opportunity and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Have a wonderful 150 years anniversary Canada!

Erlinda Armas Retired Registered Nurse Currently a Volunteer for St. Joseph Basilica Church and a Board Member of the Filipino-Canadian Saranay Association of Alberta Hi, my name is Erlinda Armas and I’m a Filipino Nurse. I came to Canada on March 13th 1967. We arrived at Edmonton airport and it was so cold. It was -50 with the windchill. And I was coming from a tropical country – I was on my high heel shoe. The nuns told us that the cold was a spring cold. Anyway, it was so cold!

I came here because I need some challenges in my profession. I want to know how nursing goes in another country. So, that’s why a friend of mine told me about a place that available here. So, she sent me an invitation so I applied for the job.

And my parents let me go, because the hospital – although it has 50 beds – it was run by nuns, so my parents said “we’ll let you go”. So the short of it, until now I’m still here. And the successful things were I was able to help my pfamily come over. Even my parents came here and they died here. And my sisters, they have their families here, too.

They are all married except me.

There were 4 of us. I’m the oldest.

And now we love Edmonton so much that we are all here. We seemed to have our residence is here now.

We don’t have anymore relatives in the Philippines, aside from my conitued on page 21 Ź

JANUARY 2018 from page 20

The FilipinoCanadian Saranay Association... cousins, but my immediate family, my siblings are all here. We are enjoying working here and raising families. So, after I retired in 2000 I started volunteer here at basilica.

This is like my second home now.

My family was having a hard time looking for me, because I’m here all the time. But, I enjoy working for the Lord is the best! I know everybody would say that. The Lord is the best boss!

Oh, this is for 150 birthday, Happy

CONTINUATION | BUSINESS Birthday Canada! Is it “Happy Birthday, Canada”? I’ve been here for 50 years. So, for 100 years, I wasn’t here yet!

Maria Lourdes del Rosario Bernal Retired and Volunteer Hello everyone, my name is Maria Lourdes Del Rosario Bernal known to friends and acquaintances as Lulu. I am here before you to share my biggest journey in life , coming to Canada. I

am retired, married to Tony Bernal with 2 children and 8 grandchildren.

In my youth I always dream to travel the world. In order to fulfill my dream I pursue my education in the Field of medicine. I have bachelor degree in Preparatory medicine B.S. Pre-Med at the University of Santo Tomas, Manila Philippines. I was in my 3rd year medicine when I found opportunity to come to Canada .I was hired as Pediatric Nurse at the St Anne Hospital in Fort Smith NWT in May 1968. I started my career in banking in 1969 at CIBC, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce in Yellowknife, NWT. Life was so lonely, then I decided to sponsor my Fiancée

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL and got married the same year. I enrolled at University of Alberta to pursue a career in Education got pregnant and quit. Instead I continue my career in banking at CIBC, I got a certificate at the institute of Canadian Banker at U of A. We moved to Edmonton in 1963 and continue my career in banking with CIBC and retired after 42 years of service. Looking back I have so much to be thankful to Canada.

Canada changed the life and future of my family and my husband. My 5 other siblings and my husband's 8 brothers and sisters. Our family grew from myself to over 50 of us in Canada. Canada is now our home. I made time to volunteer in different

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fund raising activities in Edmonton United way, Run for the Cure, Food Bank and other community activities. I found it important to get involve in politics so I can help the community to voice out their needs.

I was a board member of the Mill Woods C conservative Party for 4 years and now a board Member of the Federal Liberal Party in Mill Woods ,under the leadership of our Minister of infrastructure Amarjeet Sohi. I take pride in participating in different associations in order to share my knowledge and experience I have acquired throughout the years.

Thank you Canada.

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

COMMUNITY | POLITICS

JANUARY 2018

Philippine Business Society of Alberta Philippine Business Society of Alberta, headed by its Founding Directors, celebrated its First Christmas Party at Palabok House last December 20, 2017. A Chritmas message was delivered by Honorable Kelly McCauley, Member of the Parliament-Edmonton. During the Party, Atty. Joseph Angeles touched on the Constitutional and By-Laws of the organization. He just stays behind but his vital contribution as a lawyer in the formation of this Society is indespensable. But, of course, everybody is important, he said. Various Filipino Business owners had tremendously shown support and substantiated this momentous event as the initial stage to its historicity.

Founding Directors of Philippine Business Society of Alberta (L-R) Oscar dela Paz of Midwest Heating, Aurelio Sumalinog RI (OOZRRG 'D\FDUH $OODQ =ROHWD RI 3DFLĂ&#x20AC;F :HOGLQJ 0DUMRULH 1HZPDQ RI 0&1 ,PPLJUDWLRQ 5HVW\ 5H\HV RI )O\ )ULHQGO\ Travel, Celso Andrade of Sunfreight Cargo as acting Chair; (not in photo) Bayani Alcantara of Panceteria de Manila.

Celso Andrade, the Interim President, his wife Myrna Andrade, and Kelly MacCauley, Member of WKH 3DUOLDPHQW IRU (GPRQWRQ :HVW

9 Companies Hiring Like Crazy This January Written by Workopolis, Posted on December 25, 2017

Are you headed into the new year looking for a job? Got some serious resolutions to put to the test?

Well we got good news for you. There are tons of companies across Canada hiring like crazy in January.

Wal-Mart Canada Wal-Mart has over 1,000 jobs posted on Workopolis right now.

This hiring spree covers a wide variety of job functions and career levels, including positions like: compliance tax manager, store manager, pharmacy assistant, and fulfillment department manager, among many others.

Loblawâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inc. Loblaw Companies Limited is now hiring for a range of positions, from coast to coast. Some particualrly

choice openings include: senior director, IT strategy and innovation and pharmacy manager positions in Kitchener, Saint John, Elliott Lake, and more.

Alberta Health Services Alberta Health Services (AHS) is the largest single health authority in Canada and is the largest employer in the province of Alberta. They now operate 400 facilities throughout the province including hospitals, clinics, continuing care facilities, mental health facilities, and more.

Unsurprisingly, AHS is looking for a wide range of professionals.

Shoppers Drug Mart Inc. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for retail or pharmacy career opportunities, Shoppers Drug Mart has over 2,000 jobs posted on Workopolis right now, with openings across the country.

Best Version Media Canada LTD Best Version Media is a publishing company that produces neighborhood-specific magazines that serve homeowners associations,

villages, and local businesses. They are looking for sales people â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from entry-level to executive â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all over Canada.

RBC As we once wrote, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good time to be considering a career in finance and tech. If that sounds enticing, RBC is now looking to fill a variety of jobs, covering everything from investment management to trade operations.

CIBC

Not to be outdone, CIBC has nearly 500 jobs posted on Workopolis right now, including roles in investments, financial advising, digital strategy, and customer service, among many more.

Home Depot of Canada Inc. From retail and merchandising to ecommerce and search engine optimization, Home Depot is looking for wide range of talented individuals across this fine country of ours.

Rogers Communications Inc. Funny thing about being in communications; it tends to cover a lot of ground. Fittingly, Rogers is looking for people in sales, operations, media, tech support, web development, and much, much more.

JANUARY 2018

BUSINESS | HEALTH

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BUSINESS | FOODS

JANUARY 2018