Alberta Filipino Journal - May 2020 Issue

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Kaya ko, Kaya Mo! Ernest Ortiz: P15

MAY 2020 • Volume 13, Number 5

Newly Promoted Filipina Professor

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Childhood Dreams Do Come True

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PINOY ORGANIZATIONS EXTEND ASSISTANCE TO KABABAYANS

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Prime Minister announces expansion of support for workers and small businesses

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL MAY 2020

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

Communtiy | Business

MAY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Pinoy organizations extend assistance to 'Kababayans' in High River, Okotoks

By Moses Billacura

Various Filipino organizations have stepped in to help community members affected by the Covid-19 pandemic in Alberta Province.

The Philippine Business Society of Alberta (PBSA) brought grocery items to Filipino families last May 3 in High River, where majority of them are workers at the Cargill meat processing plant that was first shut

down because of the pandemic. The meat processing plant has resumed its operations last May 4.

"We want them to feel that the Filipino-Canadian businesses in Edmonton have heard their concerns," said PBSA president Bayani Alcantara.

The Okotoks Filipino Association has also reached out by bringing groceries to the families in High River and Okotoks last April 22.

Migrante Alberta has continued reaching out by distributing groceries to the families, especially Temporary Filipino Workers, on May 17.

Last month, the Congress of Philippine Associations in Alberta (COPAA), Migrante Alberta, the Alberta Filipino Journal, Coco’s Nest Restaurant, fashion designer Fely Agader and Fort Distillery have also reached out to affected Filipinos in the Edmonton area.

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What's inside: A reader's guide

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Editor’s Corner

4

General Point of View

10

Sports Journal

5

Kaya Ko; Kaya Mo!

11

From Migration to Immigration

6

Filipinavigation

12

Engineer In Action

7

Jan The Man’s Note

14

Sore Truth

7

Professional Star

16

Make Our Daily Gospel..

7

Byahe ni Kat

17

Huwag Pagtakhan!

8

Migrant's Voices

18

Just Listen

9

From A Vantage Point

19

Artospective

10

Brain Twisters

20

Photos by Dario Juanillo

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Editor’s Corner | AFJ Staff | Table of Contents | Business

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL MAY 2020

FORMING A COVID-19 COALITION EDITOR’S CORNER Lito Mendoza Velasco

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

We welcome submissions-news, articles, pictures and letters. Letters must include signature and phone number; names can be withheld upon request. We reserve the right to edit for length and content. All submissions, unless arrangements are made, become the property of the publisher.

Reproduction of contents, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited without the expressed written permission from the Publisher/Editor. Opinions by columnist, writers, and readers do not in any way reflect those of the Publisher/Editor.

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Coalition Of Victorious Visionaries Intrinsically/Internationally Deified/Deployed People, in almost every aspect and in all corners of the world, have to be united in one vision in order to firmly stand against the SELF. Truly, no two individuals will be engaged in trouble if everyone has triumphantly conquered the war within-the war against one's evil thoughts.

Truly, no two well-disciplined persons will get into a quarrelsome situation, simply because they are well-disciplined. They have been prepared to be deployed for a noble mission we called: DISCIPLESHIP! Truly, an individual person who coalesces with the other individuals is forming not just a crowd, but a group with a common vision.

Truly, Empowerment is the product of aligned vision.

Truly, COVID has taught me to reach out. I learned how to extend not just what I have, but who I really am.

KAWANGGAWA Ang kawanggawa ay ang kusangloob na pagbibigay ng tulong sa mga nangangailangan, bilang isang makataong gawain o wala ring hinihinging kapalit kundi salamat lang.

Ang pagbibigay ng tulong ay ang pagbabahagi ng salapi, mga kagamitan at pagkain, o panahon para sa mga kapus-palad, maaaring direkta o sa pamamagitan ng mga organisasyong gumagawa ng ganito. Ang pagbibigay ng tulong, bilang isang relihiyosong gawain o tungkulin, ay tinutukoy na pagbibigay ng limos. Ang salitang“charity” ay nagmula sa birtud ng karidad. Ang naghihirap, lalo na ang mga balo o ulila, at mga may sakit o may pinsala sa katawan, ay ang mga nararapat na tumatanggap ng tulong. Ang mga tao na hindi kayang suportahan ang kanilang mga sarili at may kakulangan sa suporta ay nagiging mga pulubi, direktang nangongolekta ng tulong mula sa mga estrangherong nakakasalubong sa publiko.

May ilang grupo na namamahagi sa ibang miyembro na mula sa kanilang grupo. Bagaman ang pagbibigay sa mga

malalapit na tao ay minsang tinatawag na kawanggawa – ayon sa isang kasabihan “Ang pagkakawanggawa ay nagsisimula sa tahanan” – karaniwan, ang pagkakawanggawa ang nangangahulugang pagbabahagi sa mga hindi kakilala, ngunit may respeto sa magulang at mga kaugaliang tulad nito para masuportahan ang pamilya at mga kaibigan. Sa katunayan, ang pagtrato ng mga may kaugnayan sa nagbibigay na parang sila ay mga estranghero na nangangailangan ng tulong ay humantong sa isang tayutay na "as cold as charity”(sinlamig ng karidad) – nagbibigay para sa kanyang mga kamag-anak na parang sila ay mga estranghero, walang pagmamahal.

(Source: Wikepedia) Ang pinaghalawan ng Salitang Kawanggawa ayon kay Velasco 1. Kawan, Lupon, o Grupo 2. Kawang, agwat, distansya 3. Kawangis, Katulad, Kahawig, Kawangki 4. Gawa

From now on, I will bear in mind and I will promise to the community that, COVID will remain my leading values and philosophy. As a leader, I will be designing a Buddy Circle within a group which is composed of 19 members: no more, no less. This is what we are going to call: THE POWER OF 19 or the POWER OF THE ODD NUMBER! Composition: Buddy Circle’s Head Buddy Circle’s Deputy Buddy Circle’s Scroll Keeper Buddy Circle’s Chest Keeper Buddy Circle’s Mouth or Umalohokan (P.R.O.) The rest of the 14 members will be serving as arms and legs of the association. The entire group will then be called the COVID-19 COALITION. This will become our WORLD: A small world - a manageable world. This is the process of DELIMITATION. Truly, if every action is guided by a clear vision, guarded by noble thoughts, and inspired by the Almighty; then, our world will be filled with authentic harmony, joy, love and peace.

Ang isang salita ay kalimitang nagmula sa pinagtagni-tagni o pinagsama-samang iba pang mga salita upang makabuo ng mga kahulugan o katuturan.

Mapapagmasdan sa aking tatlong magkakaibang salita sa itaas ang maaaring pinaghalawan o pinagmulan ng pinag-isang salita na kawanggawa.

Na kung susuriing mabuti, ito ay ang gawain ng isang may magandang kalooban para sa kawan o grupo ng mga taong nangangailangan o dukha; o dili kaya naman ay ang gawain ng isang grupo o kawan para sa isang tao o grupo din ng mga taong kapus-palad o maralita.

Kawang, agwat, o distansya. Ipinatupad ang Social Distancing hindi upang paglayo-layuin ang kalooban nga mga tao; kundi upang ingatan sa pagkahawa sa sakit na maaaring dulot ng epidemya.

Ito ang makabago g tanda ng pagmamahalan.

Kawangis o katulad. Larawan ang malagkawanggawa ng isang dakilang gawain na nararapat gayahin o gawing huwaran.

Sa panahong ito ng pandaigdigang krisis, kay sarap ipamahagi ng mga bagay na meron tayo.

Ibigay natin sa kapwa nating dukha kung ano ang kanilang kailngan at hindi kung ano ang hindi na natin kailangan. Hustisya o makatarungan ang tawag natin sa ganyang gawain. Ang kawanggawa ay kailangan laging makatarungan upang maging tanda ng pagmamahalan.

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

Sports | Philippine News

MAY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

'Basketball vacation', Joey and golf buddies are smiling these days SPORTS JOURNAL

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

When I posted on FB about the news of Quebec's plan to resume sports and outdoor activities and asked about what could be Alberta's plan, my friends quickly commented that the province is not yet ready.

Marvin U. in Calgary said that Calgary is not ready for sure and Anna S. in Edmonton says the risk is too high. Claire M. was worried of the rising cases.

I share the same sentiment.

I'll probably have the confidence once the vaccine is found and available to fight this novel coronavirus, the “invisible enemy”. *** Philippine Sports Association (PSA) president Gary Perpetua has been receiving calls from members of the Pinoy basketball community.

You see, the April and May months are the peak of the basketball season but because of the Covid-19

pandemic, we are on "basketball vacation".

This is the only kind of "vacation" basketeers will not like, lol.

After the regular work from Mondays to Fridays, Filipino basketball fans always look forward to the weekend because it is happy time.

To some, this is also a very good excuse for the boys not to do the household chores, "kasi may PSA basketball", lol.

It’s been “difficult” for the PSA members for the past weeks. You have to understand dear readers, that basketball is the No.1 sport of the Filipinos, thanks to a Canadian who invented this and the Americans for promoting it well in the Philippines.

The Philippines used to be a powerhouse in Asia and in Philippine basketball history, it had its best performance in the 1954 FIBA World Championship when they won the

bronze in Rio de Janeiro. Carlos "Caloy" Loyzaga was the famous member of that team that included Francisco "Paking" Rabat. I had the honor to meet these basketball stars on separate occasions which I will cherish.

For years, the Crosstown Auto Centre through dealer-principal Joe Medina and coach Chester Tiongson has been a strong supporter of PSA basketball and other than being a corporate backer, Joe and Chester have forged friendship with the PSA officers and members.

So it is but natural for Gary to miss the members of the basketball community which has become his family too.

Let us continue to pray that this pandemic will be over soon. *** Joey Mirones and his fellow Pinoy golfers are happy these days.

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They have started hitting golf balls at the range and played some rounds at the Hunters Green Golf Club.

I am glad to know that you guys are back playing the sport you love.

Enjoy! And stay safe! *** There’s nothing much to talk about the sports community these days.

In short, “sports vacation”. Candidly speaking, it has been a boring sports life. No games to watch at the school gyms.

What can we do eh?

I saw Connor McDavid’s exercise routines which he posted on Twitter.

It was fun and easy to do.

I’ll probably keep following those exercises to keep my sanity these days.

Oh Covid 19, when will you ever go away.

We need our "sports life" back!

Palace tells public not to be complacent about Covid-19

PSC submits recommendation on reintro of physical activity to DOH and IATF MANILA --- The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) submitted to the Department of Health its recommendation on the reintroduction of outdoor physical activities and sports during this time of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The document, Filipino Fitness and Recreational Sport-reintroduction Tool or Filipino First, is a study made by the PSC’s Medical and Scientific Athlete Services sports science professionals, headed by Dr. Randy Molo.

“We know that sports and physical activities are still very important to strengthen one’s immune system during this COVID-19 health crisis.” said PSC Chairman William ‘Butch’ Ramirez.

The Filipino FIRST framework aims to set parameters on ‘how’ reintroduction of sports activity will occur in a cautious and methodical manner while optimizing athlete and community safety.

The PSC recommendation gave “conditions” to be met on different community quarantine scenarios.

No specific sports were mentioned.

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This is in parallel to the statement of Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Eduardo Año that the government is finding leeway to allow sports that observe physical distancing during the GCQ. “We are hopeful that the DOH and the InterAgency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-MEID) will consider the recommendations submitted to provide a guide for our citizenry who are eager to engage on outdoor activities again.” said Ramirez, adding “in the end we all need to follow the guidelines set by the IATF and the LGUs.” Due to the present global health crisis, the PSC has decided to call off all the PSC-managed events and national sports competitions such as the country's hosting of the 10th ASEAN Para Games, Philippine National Games (PNG), Philippine Youth Games-Batang Pinoy, and the 2020 National Sports Summit, in compliance with the IATF guidelines and as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19.(PSC)

MANILA (Philippines News Agency) – Malacañang on Sunday (May 17) urged the public not to get complacent about the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) threat after quarantine restrictions were eased in Metro Manila and other parts of the country.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque reminded shoppers to observe quarantine protocols following reports that some of them failed to observe safe physical distancing when malls reopened on Saturday (May 16), first day of less strict modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ).

“We advise the public not to be complacent and to follow health protocols set by authorities after we received reports of people who trooped to the malls with complete disregard of social/physical distancing measures on the first day of our shift from enhanced community quarantine to modified enhanced community quarantine and general community quarantine (GCQ) in Luzon,” Roque said in a statement.

Roque emphasized that restrictions were eased not because it is now safer to leave their homes, but because the economy was already suffering from the impact of the two months of strict quarantine.

“We must understand that we have started to slowly ease restrictions in order to revitalize the economy, and not because we are safe,” he said.

He said Filipinos should learn from the experience of other countries like South Korea, which contained the spread of the virus but later experienced a spike in Covid-19 cases when citizens became relaxed.

Roque sought for cooperation from the public as the whole country remains under community quarantine.

“We must not put to waste our collective efforts and sacrifices. Stay at home, go out to do essential work

or when authorized as we ramp up testing,” Roque said.

He said the public must continue to be vigilant of the risks of Covid-19 and observe proper hygiene, wear face mask or face shield, and observe physical distancing.

In a separate statement, Joint Task Force Covid Shield commander, Lt. Gen. Guillermo Eleazar warned that failure of mall security managers to implement safe physical distancing will result in the closure of their establishments.

“As per instruction of the SILG (Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Eduardo Año), we will not only facilitate the closure of these malls but will also initiate the filing of appropriate charges against the management,” Eleazar said.

He said all police commanders have been directed to regularly monitor the movement of people inside the malls in their respective areas of responsibility to ensure that the basic rules on safe physical distancing and wearing of face masks are observed.

President Rodrigo Duterte earlier admitted that the country could not afford a second or third wave of Covid-19 infection, reiterating the importance of physical distancing as the "new normal" until a vaccine is developed.

Metro Manila and the provinces of Laguna, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga and Zambales are currently under MECQ until May 31.

The cities of Cebu and Mandaue in Cebu province remain under ECQ. Meanwhile, areas not under ECQ or MECQ were placed under GCQ. There are 12,513 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the country, 824 deaths and 2,635 recoveries.

(PNA)

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Immigration Consultancy Services

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL MAY 2020

HOW THE ALBERTA IMMIGRANT NOMINEE PROGRAM (AINP) IS RESPONDING TO COVID-19.

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.

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

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

Finally, the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program or AINP has posted on its website changes to application and assessment process as of April 29, 2020.

AINP assures everyone that their office continues to accept and process applications, however, with temporary adjustments due to COVID-19.

Submitting applications AINP will accept copies for all document types, as well as copies of signatures on the application forms from both new and current candidates, including: • copies of candidate, spouse/ common-law partner, dependent and representative signatures on application and request forms • copies of educational transcripts for Post-Graduation Work Permit holders AINP may confirm the authenticity of signature and transcripts by other means, including phone and email.

AINP will only accept applications by mail. They will NOT accept applications submitted through electronic means.

New candidates may submit an incomplete application only if they: • meet all Selection Criteria for their AINP stream, but are missing some documents to demonstrate

they meet criteria due to COVID-19 • include a written explanation as to why the document (s) cannot be acquired • provide evidence they have requested the document(s) from the individual or organization who will issue the document or evidence the issuing body is not issuing documents due to COVID-19, and • for the Alberta Opportunity Stream, the candidate will include either valid language results or proof of registration for a language testing session on or before October 29, 2020, or • for the Alberta Express Entry Stream, they include valid language results and an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) (if applicable) Please note that new applications that do NOT meet the above requirements will be declined.

If a current candidate cannot provide documents due to COVID-19, they must provide: • a written explanation as to why the documents (s) cannot be acquired, and • evidence they have requested the document (s) from the individual or organization who will issue them or evidence the issuing body is not issuing documents due to COVID-19 Assessment of applications AINP will temporarily hold new applications for 60 calendar days from date of mailing and current applications for 60 calendar days from the date of assessment where the application is either incomplete due to COVID-19 or the AINP or the AINP program officer cannot verify information or documentation.

AINP will advise by email when an application is put on hold.

After 45 days, AINP will determine if an additional 60 calendar day hold will be applied. AINP will advise the candidate by email of the status of their application by each 60 calendar day mark.

The longest their office will hold an application is 6 months.

After 6 months, AINP will make a decision on the application based on the information available and the candidate’s circumstances at that time.

Candidates must advise AINP of any changes to their employment, address, email, phone number or family status while their AINP application is in process.

Information about a change in employment must be emailed to the AINP program officer who is processing the application or mailed to the AINP. AINP advises not to mail information without an AINP file number. All candidates are instructed to review the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for current information on maintaining their status to live and work in Alberta.

Selection criteria and assessment of applications Alberta Opportunity Stream Under the Alberta Opportunity Stream, new candidates and current candidates who are working in a location that is not zoned for commercial or industrial use due to government social distancing directives may be eligible for nomination. For example, working from home.

If the candidate is still working for their employer and continues to perform some of the job duties or types of work listed in their job description, they may be eligible for nomination if they can demonstrate they will be returning to their regular job duties after the pandemic. They must also continue to meet all other criteria.

For new and current candidates who changed employers to maintain employment during the pandemic and who are working from home, their application will be placed on hold for 60 days to allow them to meet criteria.

No other changes have been made to the Alberta Opportunity Stream selection criteria.

AINP will give some current candidates additional time to allow them to change their circumstances and meet criteria.

Current Alberta Opportunity Stream candidates experiencing any of the following circumstances will have their applications put on hold for 60 calendar days to allow them time to meet criteria: *Candidates who have had a change in their employment circumstances, specifically those who are: -unemployed or not working full-time (part-time or job share) -working in an ineligible occupation -working in or has a job offer for a different occupation than the occupation they were working in at the time of application -working in or has a job offer for a different occupation than their work experience -Post-Graduation Work permit holders who are working in an occupation unrelated to their field of study -working in Canada but may no longer have authorization for work being completed due to a change in job duties, employer, location and/or wage, or *Candidates who: -have shifted from an eligible work permit type to an ineligible work permit type to maintain employment -are working in a regulated occupation in Alberta who cannot meet licensure/registration requirements -have an ineligible language test (test is older than 2 years or for wrong test type).

Alberta Express Entry Stream AINP will continue to do selection

draws and nominate individuals under the Alberta Express Entry Stream.

Only individuals living and working in Alberta will be considered for nomination at this time. The following criteria must be met to receive a nomination: -Alberta employers must be incorporated or registered by or under an act of the legislature of a province, territory, or the Parliament of Canada and operating as a business that has an established production capability, plant or place of business in Alberta; -The applicant must be currently working in Alberta -Individuals working in a location that is not zoned for commercial or industrial use, such as working from home due to government social distancing directives may be eligible for nomination, so long as they meet ALL other criteria.

-The applicant must have a work permit authorizing them to work in their current occupation in Alberta.

-The work must be -paid -full-time, defined as a minimum of 30 hours/week -for wages and benefits that meet provincial minimum wage and must meet or exceed the requirements set out in a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), or if LMIA exempt, meet or exceed the lowest starting wage for the occupation across all industries in Alberta as set out on the Alis website, and -in an eligible occupation. Ineligible occupations at this time include occupations on the: =Government of Canada’s list of high wage and low-wage occupations in the province of Alberta (also known as the Refusal to Process a Labour Market Impact Assessment list), or =the Alberta Opportunity Stream Ineligible Occupations list The following individuals are NOT eligible: -Individuals with a job offer for part-time, casual or seasonal employment, regardless of their current working hours -independent contractors, business owners or temporary agency workers, including individuals listed as Directors, Shareholders or Agents of the Alberta employer on the Corporate Registry System (CORES).

Current Alberta Express Entry Stream candidates who are experiencing any of the following circumstances will have their applications put on hold for 60 calendar days to allow them time to become eligible for a nomination: -candidates who were working in Alberta prior to the COVID-19 pandemic but who are currently not working full-time (part-time or unemployed) -candidates working in a regulated

occupation in Alberta but who cannot meet licensure/registration requirements Alberta Express Entry Stream applications where there is no recent history of employment in Alberta will NOT be processed until further notice. This includes new applications from individuals who received a Notification of Interest letter before or after April 29, 2020, as well as applications where an AINP program officer had already started to assess the application for eligibility.

In all cases, including those applications put on hold, if the candidate’s Federal Express Entry profile expires, AINP will close the application and the candidate will need to be re-selected by Alberta in order to qualify for consideration under this stream.

After nomination AINP is working with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on the impact of COVID-19 on the permanent residence process.

Nominees must advise AINP of any changes in their employment circumstances, address, email, phone number or family status after nomination. Once an application for permanent residence is submitted, you must continue to advise the AINP and the IRCC of any changes.

Information about a change in employment must be emailed to the AINP program officer who processed the application or mailed to the AINP along with an AINP file number.

Nominees whose employment circumstances change due to the COVID-19 pandemic will be given 60 calendar days to meet employment criteria in order to maintain their nomination. Nominees who move to another province or territory will have their nomination withdrawn.

AINP will continue to issue nomination extension and/or 204 (c) Letters of Support to nominees who meet the requirements for these post-nomination supports.

All nominees are strongly advised to review the IRCC website for the most up to date information on maintaining their status to live and work in Alberta.

If you have questions regarding the above article you may contact Marjorie at info@mcncanadaimmigration.com Source: Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) A word of caution: You should not act or rely on the information provided in this column. It is not legal advice.

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

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

Education | Points of View | Religion

MAY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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APEGA Academic Documentation Requirements

I

n the past several years of writing Articles about the Process of Engineering Licensure in Alberta for Internationally Educated Engineers – I already received dozens of questions and inquiries. This is a good sign that Internationally Educated Engineers are prioritizing to undergo this process and eventually go back to their Profession after migrating to Canada.

For this Edition of the Alberta Filipino Journal – I will be discussing again the Academic Documentation Requirements. Most Provincial Engineering Regulating Association follows the same Academic Requirement Documentation. So, whether you are migrating to Ontario, Manitoba or other Province, the Academic requirements are the same and it is covered by the rules of the Engineers Canada.

Filipino immigrants in Canada graduated from different college and university in the Philippines wherein their credentials were evaluated by third party organization and make recommendations to APEGA on what their education is equivalent to Canadian education system.

The APEGA outlined a process on how to submit your academic documentation requirements to the World Education Services (WES).

All applicants will be evaluated against the APEGA syllabus in engineering and geoscience.

Applicants who do not meet academic requirements could be refused, prescribed examinations to make

course equivalent and syllabi. The course lists are available at the APEGA website and is available at the University of Alberta and University of Calgary that match APEGA's course equivalents. The syllabi and exams explains what the course and technical exams will cover. Engineering applicants must complete the requirements listed under Preliminary and Basic Studies and Complementary Studies, as well as the requirements specified for their specific discipline.

Mervin Cereno, P. The final review of academic Eng. documents is done by APEGA's Board mmcereno@gmail.com of Examiners (BOE), and it is the Mervin Cereno is a Filipino BOE that ultimately determines their immigrant in Canada. He is depth, breadth, and acceptability. a Filipino-Canadian Engineer World Education Services licensed to practice engineering in Alberta and is employed as a (WES) is an academic-assessment Structural Engineer designing agency designated by Immigration, small to medium-rise commercial Refugees and Citizenship Canada and multi-family buildings at one of most sought-after Engineering to provide educational credential Consulting Firms based in assessments for degrees earned Edmonton. He is a volunteer outside of Canada. WES is the and advocates to help FilipinoCanadian Engineers pursue their only academic-assessment agency Professional Engineering License recognized by APEGA, and only in Canada.

International Credential Advantage Package (ICAP) reports are accepted.

For advice on specific cases in pursuing your application whether A WES assessment that states in ASET or APEGA, please email you have a "4-year undergraduate me at mmcereno@gmail.com. degree" is only the first step in up perceived deficiencies or asked the academic assessment process. to write confirmatory examinations APEGA's Board of Examiners must to confirm the quality, depth and also conduct a full review of your breadth of their education. academic credentials.

Basic guidelines were published in the APEGA website to wit the WES ICAP Report: courses taken in the Philippines • Verifies the authenticity of your will be compared to the acceptable academic documents.

ENGINEER IN ACTION

• Establishes the equivalent level of your academic credentials compared with the Canadian university system.

APEGA's Board of Examiners: • Reviews your degree to ensure it is a degree in engineering or geoscience.

• Confirms the acceptability of the course content and performance of your degree.

• Ensures that your degree meets the legal requirements for licensure.

How to Obtain a World Education Services ICAP Report 1. Register for APEGA's Member Self-Service Centre, and receive your ID number. This ID number will be required to order your WES Report.

2. Follow the instructions to continue to the WES website for the next step of the application process.

3. Follow the instructions provided

by WES. If you already have an evaluation report from WES, you may need to upgrade that report to an International Credential Advantage Package (ICAP).

4. WES will send the completed evaluation report to APEGA digitally.

Physical copies will not be accepted.

What you need to do: You must have an APEGA ID number before you begin a WES application.

Follow the steps below to complete

your WES application: 1. Select Canada for your evaluation.

2. Select WES Standard Application.

3. Add Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA) as a recipient.

4. Select WES ICAP Course-byCourse as the evaluation type (required by APEGA).

If you already have a WES application, it must be upgraded to a WES ICAP Course-by-Course evaluation.

Follow the country-specific document requirements and arrange for your documents to be delivered to WES. The roadblock for most Filipino Engineers in continuing this application process is when they got a credential evaluation that states “3-year diploma” wherein the only option left is to take the Technical Exams which entails a lot of preparation and cost. And at the end of the day, it is still your decision whether you are going to pursue your professional status as Engineer or re-direct your path toward a Technologist. Pursuing your path toward a Certified Engineering Technologist (CET) is governed by The Association of Science & Engineering Technology Professionals of Alberta (ASET).

The process is different and also the requirements.

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

Social media as a toxic platform “Look for the blessings not the missing.”John 6:30-35 SORE TRUTH Social media is seen as an advantage for many, while some see it as a toxic platform. Social media is what many kids, teenagers, and adults use in their free time; it’s become part of our generation. Although social media has its great advantages, it can become toxic in many ways such as ruining relationships, cyberbullying, and more.

Having people on their devices such as cellphones can become damaging.

When you walk into a restaurant, you may notice some people at a table on their cellphones instead of communicating with one another.

Moreover, it has made many people lazy as instead of communicating face to face and hanging out, some people prefer to text and/or video call one another. In addition to social media making people lazier than before, apps are being created each day to make their lives “much easier.” This includes apps allowing other people to go out and purchase groceries for them, and deliver food. Although this idea is great, it is giving more reason for people to stay home and not connect with the outside world.

There are many ways that social media can be toxic. One of them is that popular people such as models, create a visual picture for everyone to look at and see perfection; however, this plants a seed in many individuals’ minds on what people (most especially girls) should look like. For example, some girls believe that being “beautiful” means having fair clear skin, long silky hair, and weighing a certain amount. Because many people define

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

these things as “perfect” many girls believe they are not good enough.

Because of these characteristics that define someone as “perfect,” many girls end up starving themselves and developing eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia just to be a step closer to “perfection.” As for men, they believe that they need to be muscular and fit to be able to win a girl’s heart and for society to accept them. This can badly impact children which can drag their self-esteem down. Given that many people think they need to look a certain way to be good enough and feel accepted due to the images that are buried in their minds says a lot about today’s society.

Lastly, cyberbullying is common online whether you’re a celebrity or not.

Many people, including celebrities, are cyberbullied each day. Cyberbullying is defined as using an electronic device

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to communicate and bully an individual online by sending harmful messages or photos.

This includes explicit languages and threats. Cyberbullies use social media as their advantage to anonymously mess with people, going so far as telling someone to die, kill themselves, or comment on how “ugly” they look. For example, many people, as well as celebrities, receive death threats and nasty comments each day.

Therefore, it is clear that social media has many advantages such as being able to communicate with friends and family across the world; however, it comes with disadvantages such as ruining relationships, being part of a toxic platform, and possibly get cyberbullied or being a witness to cyberbullying.

Because at least 97% of the world’s population uses social media, it’s quite evident that social media is beginning to rule the world. Social media is an addiction, and it is a lot more common than you may think. Not only is it common in teenagers, but also adults.

Some people’s screen time on their devices can be as little as three hours, to more than twelve hours a day.

Thus, social media is great, however, there should be a limit when using it.

MAKE OUR DAILY GOSPEL READING TRENDING Like it and share it!

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

we will seek it in vain elsewhere. Friends, learn to be satisfied with what you have, for someone else somewhere is happy with less than what you have.

Jesus in today’s gospel introduces Himself as the Bread of Life-one who can fully satiate our innermost and deepest desires. “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall never be hungry, and whoever believes in me shall never be thirsty.” He is more than what the world can offer. If we have Him, we have all we need. Whoever has Jesus lacks nothing.

Friends, take note of this: satisfaction is not always the fulfillment of what you want. It is the realization of how blessed you are for what you have. Friends, you are blessed with much, just learn to appreciate it. Look for your blessings, not for what is missing.

To conclude, Jesus came as “Manna” from heaven to to give us life. Come to Him and you will never be hungry and thirsty again. Friends the message of today’s gospel is very clear. It is Jesus you seek when you desire happiness. My dear kababayan, we cannot find satisfaction in our vices. Alcohol, drugs, sex, gambling, a good salary, trips, big houses, fancy cars, status, connections, etc. cannot quench our desires. As St. Augustine says: “My heart is restless until it finds its rest in You.” And today’s gospel reading is a beautiful reminder that the bread we should search for is JESUS. Let us beg the Lord to give us the grace, not trade off the values of God’s Kingdom in lieu of worldly manna. God alone suffices. God is enough.

The crowd in today’s gospel is asking Jesus for a sign. They need to see works of wonders for them to believe in him. We are like the crowds in today's gospel. We want more than there is. We are surrounded by signs of God’s love but we fail to recognize it. We look for more. We yearn for more! Like the crowds, we are not satisfied with what we have. Jesus feeds them but they desire more.

Friends, if what Jesus provides can’t Blessings satisfy us, this is dangerous because Fr. Jhack

www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

8

Opinion

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL MAY 2020

TODAY'S FEATURE: “I’M GLAD I DID!”

Write your own story. Be original. LIFE IS WHAT WE MAKE IT! “When you grow up you tend to get told that the world is the way it is and your purpose is just to live your life inside the world. Try not to bash into the walls too much.

Try to have a nice family life, have fun, save a little money. That's a very limited life. Life can be much broader once you discover one simple fact: Everything around you that you call life was made up by people that were no smarter than you. And you can change it, you can influence it… Once you learn that, you'll never be the same again.”

“Don't let the opinions of the average man sway you. Dream, and he thinks you're crazy. Succeed, and he thinks you're lucky. Acquire wealth, and he thinks you're greedy.

Pay no attention. He simply doesn't understand.” ― Robert G. Allen And now here is my secret, a very simple secret; it is only with the heart that one can see rightly, what is essential is invisible to the eye.”– Antoine de Saint-Exupery.

The most valuable things in life can not be seen with the naked eye: love, friendship, hope, integrity, trust, compassion.

"Life is a choice. It is YOUR life.

Choose consciously, choose wisely, choose honestly. Choose happiness BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE!" ASK yourself the question: “In 20 years, WHAT will I REGRET?” 20 years from now, you’ll be more DISAPPOINTED by the things you DID NOT DO, not by the things you did.

Today’s INACTION will translate into tomorrow’s REGRETS. CHOOSE to live a life that is TRUE to you.

In 20 years while others say “I wish I had”, let us say “I’m glad I did!”

Replace “I wish I had” with “I’m glad I did!” ****************************** "TOP FIVE REGRETS OF THE DYING": Written several years ago, the simple article "Top Five Regrets Of The Dying" recounts the lessons learned by a hospice worker in Australia from her departing patients.

When questioned about any regrets they had or anything they would do differently, common themes surfaced again and again. Here are the most common five: #5. I wish that I had let myself be happier.

HUWAG PAGTAKHAN! (“DON’T MARVEL at MR. MARVEL”)

familiarity overflowed into their emotions, as well as their physical lives. Fear of change had them pretending to others, and to their selves, that they were content. When deep within, they longed to laugh properly and have silliness in their life again.

When you are on your deathbed, what others think of you is a long way from your mind. How wonderful to be able to let go and smile again, long before you are dying.

Hermo Toribio Reyes Pagtakhan

Again, life is a choice. It is YOUR life. Choose consciously, choose wisely, choose honestly. Choose happiness."

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

“I aspire to inspire before I expire! My talent is God’s Gift to me. What I do with it is my Gift back to God. Yes, I know I am not perfect. I also know I am a persistent sinner who is struggling every day to find my way to holiness. God gave me the GIFTS of ARTICULATION and EXPRESSION. I vow to use my talent to be a witness for Him and to use it for His Glory!

God bless all!” *********************** Timely Reminders for Those who may Forget! Lest We Forget!

May Kasabihan po tayo sa Tagalog: “Ang Paalala ay GAMOT Sa Taong NAKAKALIMOT!”

#4. I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends. #3. I wish I'd had the courage to express my feelings. #2. I wish I hadn't worked so hard. #1: I wish I'd had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me. ****************************** #5. “I wish that I had let myself be happier."

This is a surprisingly common one.

Many did not realise until the end that happiness is a choice. They had stayed stuck in old patterns and habits. The so-called 'comfort' of

#4: “I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends.”

"Often they would not truly realise the full benefits of old friends until their dying weeks and it was not always possible to track them down.

Many had become so caught up in their own lives that they had let golden friendships slipped by over the years. There were many deep regrets about not giving friendships the time and effort that they deserved.

Everyone misses their friends when they are dying."

It is common for anyone in a busy lifestyle to let friendships slip. But when you are faced with your approaching death, the physical details of life fall away. People do want to get their financial affairs in order if possible. But it is not money or status that holds the true importance for them. They want to get things in order more for the benefit of those they love. Usually though, they are too ill and weary to ever manage this task. It all comes down to love and relationships in the end. That is all that remains in the final weeks, love and relationships. #3. “I wish I'd had the courage to express my feelings.”

Many people suppressed their feelings in order to keep peace with others. As a result, they settled for a mediocre existence and never became who they were truly capable of becoming.

Many developed illnesses relating to the bitterness and resentment they carried as a result."

We cannot control the reactions of others.

However, although people may initially react when you change the way you are by speaking honestly, in the end it raises the relationship to a whole new and healthier level.

Either that or it releases the unhealthy relationship from your life. Either way, you win. #2. “I wish I hadn't worked so hard.”

"This came from every male patient that I nursed. They missed their children's youth and their partner's

companionship. Women also spoke of this regret, but as most were from an older generation, many of the female patients had not been breadwinners. All of the men I nursed deeply regretted spending so much

of their lives on the treadmill of a work existence."

By simplifying your lifestyle and making conscious choices along the way, it is possible to not need the income that you think you do.

And by creating more space in your life, you become happier and more open to new opportunities, ones more suited to your new lifestyle. ****************************** 1. ”I wish I'd had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.”

This was the most common regret of all. When people realize that their life is almost over and look back clearly on it, it is easy to see how many dreams have gone unfulfilled. Most people have had not honoured even a half of their dreams and had to die knowing that it was due to choices they had made, or did not make.

It is very important to try and honour at least some of your dreams along

the way. From the moment that you lose your health, it is too late.

Health brings a freedom very few realise, until they no longer have it.

“Living a balanced life (spiritually, physically, mentally, emotionally, socially and financially) is the secret to a happy and healthy life!

Simple joys and simple living are STILL and are ALWAYS the BEST!” (Hermo T. Pagtakhan) This is my hope for you: a happy and healthy life OVERFLOWING with abundance of ALL KINDS and a life FULLY LIVED with NO REGRETS! GOD BLESS ALL!!!

Photos credit to the owner.

www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

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

Opinion | Government Update

MAY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

9

Effective Ways & Tools That Will Help Flatten The Curve JUST LISTEN

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

A

s Alberta re-launches its economy, the world watches. Everyone is curious about how effective our measures are going to be. Many countries, like Germany, did their own re-launch to return to a new normal. It is unfortunate to hear that there was a spike of new cases after Germany’s relaunch. The report came as thousands of Germans recently gathered to call for an end to the lockdown. While we all want to go back to our normal ways, we are not there yet. But we are all in this together in finding ways that will better protect each and every person.

The first to re-launch was Wuhan,

China and Korea followed after.

COVID-19 is still here. As a columnist, I believe we need to take a look at effective ways that have helped us slowly flatten this curve. So let us look at the measures and tools that were put into place when the pandemic started.

Social Distancing has been one of the key elements to help limit the spread of the virus. Staying six feet apart has helped slow down the spread of the virus. The Corona Virus spreads when a person who is infected coughs or sneezes. Distancing ourselves from others helps prevent the contact of droplets from coughing or sneezing. So how was this procedure implemented?

Businesses such as grocery stores put tape markings on the floor to ensure that people are 6 feet away from the next person.

Every grocery store or retailer has signs on the floor. An employee mans the door to ensure clients follow the distancing rules while tracking the amount of people inside the premises at a given time, which is in line with government restrictions. In retail stores, sneeze guards (acrylic plastic barriers) have been put in place to protect employees from coughs and sneezes. The implementation of other notable practices such as the heavy use of disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer and chemical-based cleaning solutions has been very evident since the start of the outbreak. This was the reason why there was a spike in chemical poisoning in March of this year.

So what other solutions have been effective in the fight against COVID-19? A major grocery chain was using contactless temperature

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guns to measure for fever, a strategy that Wuhan did apply when they re-launched the economy. The only problem with the use of the contactless temperature gun is that an employee has to manually scan each and every person before they enter, which is a risk to the employee and could be very tiring. Other companies have resorted to better tools like the Camera Scanning System normally used in airports. These automated systems are usually very expensive and cost prohibitive to small to medium size businesses, as the average unit cost is between $15,000 to $25,000 dollars or more.

So, for businesses already struggling to make ends meet, this is cost prohibitive.

But in doing my research, we were able to find a better tool called TMC888, which is more cost effective and can help small to medium size businesses automatically scan for fever, thus protecting not only their employees but also their shoppers. What is more unique is that it has a voice prompt

to tell clients to step in front of the camera so it can to start scanning their temperature. It does this one person at a time and the scan lasts a few seconds which allows for the social distancing required, unlike other thermal scanners that scan multiple people at the same time even if they are not social distancing. It not only records the temperature of the person, but the video as well and stores data of the date and time for reference just in case of an outbreak. This way, the clusters can be easily identified. When the TMC888 camera senses abnormal temperature, it will sound an alarm on your mobile phone or iPad or PC. The TMC888 is great for deterring sick people from coming to your establishment, keeping your place of business safe. In addition, this tool costs way less than the scanners found in airports. Best of all, it is already available in Alberta, particularly in Edmonton and Calgary.

Is this solution a guarantee that there will be no further infections? Definitely

not, but it will help. Amazon recently announced it will use thermal cameras to check employee temperature and some grocery workers are undergoing checks before reporting to their jobs.

According to Jai Marathe, an infectious disease physician at the Boston Medical Center & Professor at Boston University School of Medicine, “During the time the virus is multiplying, once it reaches its critical level, it causes the body to respond with robust symptoms. In the case of COVID-19, one of the most common symptoms experienced by patient is fever.� Colorado Gov. Jared Polis and Califonia Governor Gavin Newsom will be implementing temperature checks in their reopening strategy.

Disney Parks are also considering temperature checks. If so, small to medium size businesses in Alberta should look into the TMC888 as a risk management solution to prevent the spread of the virus.

You can always contact us by email at ngocuan@yahoo.com for questions or comments.

www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

10

Arts and Culture | Points of View

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL MAY 2020

Creativity and Shutdown in a Pandemic

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ith people confined in their homes during this pandemic, we see more and more evidence of creativity and ingenuity happening in our daily lives. People are finding new ways to stay busy without common forms of entertainment such as shopping malls, social gatherings or gyms. People’s time that would have otherwise been spent in varied activities, is now being spent at home, and most likely on the sofa or bed.

Creativity is not just confined with the arts. There is inventiveness and imagination in sciences, design, sports and cooking. Social media news feeds are inundated with posts of people’s creations, whether they are newbies and veterans in these activities: crafts, sewing, knitting, crocheting; performances - singing, playing musical instruments, story telling, video creation (esp. TikTok); podcasts; photography; learning languages; the creative use of 3D printers for PPEs. People are also finding creative ways to celebrate life milestones, i.e, birthdays, graduations, weddings.

Working on something that is challenging but can be addressed by one’s skills, people enter a state he called flow. In this state, people are fully absorbed in and focused on the activity, and as a result, they lose track of time. And it is this unlocking of the imagination in reimagining events and activities that provides the amazement factor in this time of the pandemic.

Historically, there are prominent examples of those who found creative inspiration in spending time alone.

ARTOSPECTIVE - an artist’s point of view

Ida Beltran-Lucila ida_b_lucila@yahoo.com

Isaac Newton, with schooling at Cambridge University halted, retreated to his family home in Lincolnshire, where, in a remarkable burst of creativity, he laid the groundwork for his theories of gravity and optics, and invented calculus. There is also the notion that William Shakespeare wrote some of his best poems and plays while plague forced a closure of London’s theatres.

Arts has been more accessible too with the numerous online workshops, some for free, others subsidized, and some as fundraisers. Performances and films have been made available online - giving us front row seats to Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musicals, ballets, operas, landmark films and theatre productions from all over in the summer. the world. You just need to know Some artists have managed to where to look. And now, there is the hold outdoor performances while much awaited release of Hamilton people stay at home - musicians

and singers performing from their balconies or sidewalk, in the rotunda of a housing community, and recently, Keith Urban in a

Thank You Home Economics Education!

A

s the years go by, my appreciation for a particular part of my education in the Philippines continues to increase.

That is, the practical lasting value and impact of the class we called H.E.L.E. (Home Economics and Livelihood Education). I imagine that different regions and schools had a variation of the acronym, the content of the curriculum itself, as well as the scheduling. As for me, I had these classes from Grade 4 until the final year of high school, and I strongly believe that it sets a good foundation of intellectual, practical, and emotional skills that helps in one’s life as they get older.

First, I would like to talk about cooking classes. In my own home growing up I did not have a lot of opportunity and access to make elaborate dishes. I did not have access to a steamer, oven, or baking trays. But in my Home Economics classes, working with a few dozen classmates, we watched and help make delicacies, I had my fist opportunity baking and icing a cake, and used large cooking equipment.

The moment I had my own home, my own kitchen, oven and pantry, I was able to build my skills and routines, from cooking basic dishes, indulging myself with my favourite Filipino foods, and www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

GENERAL POINT OF VIEW

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

experiment with dishes and learn new recipes. Cooking classes in

school was also my first experience cooking with other people and while I appreciate it, it helped me understand who I am a bit better, and how in the kitchen I am an independent worker.

Learning about sewing, both hand-sewing and machine sewing, helped me practically, financially and creatively. I made my first pillowcases in Grade 5. The fabric was a light green fabric decorated with little white flowers, with a bold fuchsia pink ribbon as an accent, and strips of the green fabric as pleated fringes all around the edges. Now in my house, all our pillowcases are crafted by me, with a pattern of bold blocks and stipes,

recycled from clothes that are too worn to wear anymore. And now during the pandemic this helps with community service, as I finish the 125th fabric laundry bag I have sewn to help healthcare workers safely store their dirty scrubs and uniforms after work.

I appreciate how these classes tried to bend gender norms as well. Female students had to take woodworking, and it helped build my confidence, to not be scared of tools such as hammers, chisels, nails and screws. It helped me to be caring and diligent about the physical structure of my home and its furnishings. As with community service, it was less intimidating to

major drive-through concert for first responders. And with most projects being done online, there has also been a noticeable rise of collaborations amongst artists across the globe - first in mind is the Lady Gaga curated tv special Together at Home, in support of the World Health Organization, and Swans for Relief, which featured 32 ballerinas from 22 dance companies from 14 countries, to raise funds for dancers affected by the pandemic all over the world.

Famous museums have offered virtual tours. Many institutions have made educational resources freely available online; IBM made their design courses free, NASA offers many lessons and activities and a Pandemic University has even been established, offering online courses covering a range of topics including feature writing, true crime, non-fiction book proposals, travel writing, personal essays, food writing.

Corporations have also stepped up to support these online activities. continued on page 14►

volunteer Habitat for Humanity a few years ago. I thought, if I can handle a screwdriver or a hammer, it is totally okay to “level up” and learn how to use 3-foot long, powerful nail gun, stapler to install sub-flooring, and build door frames.

In high school, I learned computer skills and the basics of architectural drafting. I can even argue that I had better foundational skills compared to those who grew up here in Canada, particularly with using Excel, PowerPoint, and computer programming. I acknowledge the value of choosing classes that are interesting for a student, however, I am so glad that these were made mandatory.

Many parents are using the pandemic, as their children are homebound with them, as an opportunity to teach life skills like cooking and organizing the home. As an orphan, with a living arrangement different than most, if this were the case in the Philippines where the parents at home is primarily in charge of teaching ‘life skills’ I would have missed out on so many things.

I strongly believe that educational curriculum in schools can become a really valuable equalizer. Children of different backgrounds and circumstances are gathered in the same room, under the same teachers, schedule and access to materials and equipment and ideally, retain the knowledge and skills being taught.

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

Inspiration | Business

MAY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Filipinos Success' Stories:

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

ERNEST ORTIZ: Tested by failures and became the cornerstone of ECHO, Ltd.

E

very successful person is shaped not by the numbers of academic awards not by the praises and applauses; not even by the money amass.

But by the faithful services he has rendered to the society. No successful businessman could ever tell that he became rich without the support of his employees.

Workers are the the vital and integral parts of the business industry. The more workers doe a company have, the more commodities are produced; hence, more profit. And, in the last analysis, the more lives are sustained.

In Gande Praire, there is a successful Filipino Entrepreneur who excels in the field of construction. He, with the indefatigable support of his wife never

ceases his journey in order to achieve his dream that has brought him where he is right now. Let’s listen to his story by starting from his humble beginning.

My Elusive Dream. I wanted to become a Doctor, nagsimula ang pangarap kong ito ng malaman ko na namatay ang aking ikalawang kapatid (Si Kuya Ferdinand), baby pa siya noon. Sinabi ko sa aking sarili na nais kong maging isang mangagamot upang makalagbigay lunas sa mga karamdaman at makapagligtas ng buhay.

Hurdles. Totoo nga, na sa bawat pangarap ay kailangang palaging may katumbas na kakayahan dahil napakaraming hadlang. Kinilala ko ang aking kahinaan.

Entrance examination pa lamang ay

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hindi na ko nakapasa. Dumating ang point na hindi ko na alam ang gusto ko. Sinubukan ko rin ang ibang kurso. Subalit, lahat ng iyon ay hindi ko nalusutan: pagpapari, pagpupulis, pagsusundalo.

Wala na, hindi ko na alam noon ang career path na tatahakin ko.

Kaya ang alternative goal ko noon ay umalis na lang ng Pilipinas para maging OFW. Hanapin ang sarili kung ano ba talaga ang mas nababagay sa akin. Ipinanalangin ko na gabayan ako ng Poong Maykapal na iangkop ang aking talento sa paparoonan ko. Tila baga ako’y isang lapis na ipinaubaya ko ang isusulat na kwento ayon sa Kamay na may hawak sa akin. Kailangan kong umangat sa buhay at nang mabigyan ko naman ang aking pamilya ng magandang buhay at nang maipagmalaki din nila ako.

Life Abroad. From Brunei to Taiwan—Taiwan to Canada. Lumabas ang aking mga potensyal sa ibayong-dagat. Kailangang gawin ko ang hindi ko dati ginawa. Tinuruan ako ng karanasan. Totoo nga na “Experience is the best teacher.” Kailangan kong ituloy ang buhay dahil wala sa katabi ko ang aking pamilya. Ang pangangalaga sa kalusugan ng katawan ang isa sa pinaka-pangunahing dapat tutukan ng pansin. Dahil ito ang behikulo upang hindi mabitawan ang anumang nais kong hawakan. Ang matalinong desisyon ay palaging nagmumula sa malusog na kaisipan at katawan.

Bawal magkasakit dahil walang mag-aalaga at basta-basta magmamalasakit. Hindi lamang hanap-buhay ang dapat kong hanapin sa aking paglalakbay; kundi, higit sa lahat ay ang buhay na

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continued on page 18►

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Points of View | Business

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL MAY 2020

Filipina Art in Perspective Alexandra Durrschnabel is a good friend of mine who continues to inspire me with her artistic ability, and more importantly, her heart. If you’d like to learn more about a Filipina’s perspective as an artist, please enjoy my interview with her below.

Could you tell me about yourself?

I am a 19-year-old artist who currently resides in Edmonton, Alberta. I grew up in a biracial family. My mother immigrated from the Philippines and my dad grew up on a farm in northern Alberta. I am currently a student at the University of Alberta pursuing a degree in secondary education. Art is my passion and I draw almost every single day. One day, I hope to see that same passion in the classrooms I teach in. Last but not least, my biggest dream is to create a graphic novel. Even if I am the only person who reads it, I want to be able to read it and see my growth as an artist throughout the chapters.

What does your work aim to say?

Personally, I believe that my work displays development more than a particular voice. As a 19-year-old artist, I find myself pushing to create art that feels authentic and fresh.

Growing up in a time when artists are everywhere online, it is hard for me to feel original. It is difficult creating a voice when you feel like it has been done better by others before you. To fully enjoy my art, I believe one must see my process and the pieces that lead up to my finished work.

www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

FILIPINAVIGATION

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

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

But my biggest inspiration is drawing people around me. I’m sure many people have experienced a weird surge of motivation to create or pursue something that is their own.

I have ventured into displaying my perspective. My family and friends have become the things that inspire, and from that, I have been faced with an urgency to draw their charms.

I’ve recently made the decision that for my personal art, and the art I use to represent my style, I want to try my best to use models and muses that are a part of my life. Through this process, I want people to see the same individuals that make me

want to linger. As I analyze every line or see these people living their day to day lives, I get this feeling of adrenaline that I cannot describe other than an urgency to draw.

Drawing portraits is a very intimate process for me due to the fact that I try to capture the brightness of every personality I draw. I’ve drawn some of my friends over and over again like a mad man trying to get the colours right. I’ll do rough sketches on paper and then do a few more on procreate (the application/program I use to draw). I hope people feel the smile I make when I draw or when I admire my muses. I want my art to represent how privileged I am to be surrounded by people who fuel my creativity and the people who cause me to sit in bed drawing all night.

Who are your biggest influences?

On my father’s side of the family, my cousin Barrie used to draw in front of me and my sister. I remember trying to imitate the sketches and doodles she would leave on scrap pieces of paper. I don’t think she knows how deeply she has influenced my art.

Without her, I wouldn’t have started drawing. I also strongly believe that my mother’s culture is what made me appreciate colour and brightness.

Without my mom, I would not have been exposed to colourful Filipiniana dresses and the brightness of the Philippines’ traditional clothes.

Growing up with a headstrong and sometimes stubborn immigrant mother, I find that her personality often rubs off on my own and into the process of my art.

Alexandra Durrschnabel’s depiction of me, Riana Torrejon. This was taken from her Instagram account, @durrschydraws.

A piece of artwork found on Alexandra Durrschnabel’s Instagram account, @ durrschydraws.

Some of my favourite artists/influences/ influences on Instagram in no particular order include: @jamesjeanart, @littlethunder, @ nevahosking, @soeymilk, @audkawa, @hanachatani, @alexis_art

me and sneaked its way into my art.

What was something surprising you found as you were learning to draw and create art?

When learning to draw, especially when I was just beginning, I would have an image in my head of what I wanted to create. Unfortunately, at the time, I did not have the technical ability to create what I was picturing in my head. With a lack of skill, I’m sure many people can relate to the immense amount of frustration and anger that comes with failing to put an idea into works. Learning the basics is key when doing art and it is hard to get around it.

Which current art world trends are you following?

I think recently there has been a huge pull towards vintage style photography, especially photography that mimics the colours and flashiness of the 80s and 90s. I find that the iridescence and contrast have definitely intrigued

Where can people find your work?

I have an art account on Instagram @ durrschydraws. I usually post work in progress posts and my current projects.

I occasionally post self-reflections in my captions to document how I feel about my progress. My Instagram includes art dating back a few years and I hope to be posting some more of my new work soon.

Is there anything additional you’d like to say for the readers today?

I feel as though I must mention that I am only 19. I have a ton of stuff to learn and I feel like many young artists can relate to my uncertainty.

Currently, I am in a state of selfdiscovery and I find my skills being humbled on a daily basis. Right now, I know most of my techniques, ideas and skills are subject to change but for now, the best thing I can do for myself is to keep making art. I hope to use this interview as a time capsule to look back on in the future. But to conclude my thoughts, I would like to say thank you to the art community for pushing my ideas of what art can be. Art truly is my backbone.

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

MAY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Business

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Sports | Legal Services

JAN THE MAN’S NOTE

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

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL MAY 2020

Golf Courses in AB now Open It is official! The golf courses in Alberta have received approval from the Alberta Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw to begin operations for the 2020 golf season. However, due to the current state of COVID-19 global pandemic, golfers will need to consistently follow the rules and guidelines stated by Hinshaw on the courses. The most significant of these guidelines being social distancing of at least two metres or six feet from other fellow golfers, as well as individuals needing to make significant efforts to regularly sanitize and maintain cleanliness.

Golf courses, though open, will need to abide by Alberta Health’s guidelines by adapting to the way they conduct their day-to-day operations such as the full closure of clubhouses, pro-shops, and restaurants. However, there will be some golf courses that will have food and drinks available for golfers on the go. It is also important to note that the booking and payment of tee times will be exclusively online for the time being to further prevent physical contact. From there, golfers will just need to arrive 10-20 minutes before their tee time and enjoy their round from there!

Changes on the course include holes being lifted with the cups being raised, sand rakes will be removed meaning an automatic free-drop for golfers finding themselves in that position, as well as no ball washers and benches to be used on the course. This will be the new normal for the time being and will definitely raise many spirits to be able to be outside and enjoy the weather.

You may even save a few strokes with the new rules in place! Fore!

Photo taken by Januel Ibasco

from page 10

ARTOSPECTIVE

Telecom companies facilitated access by removing internet data caps, relaxing long distance rules to facilitate communication, subsidizing internet rates for low income families and for some, providing free service.

People with a passion for art finally have time to invest in developing their creative side in a more systematic way. While staying abreast of pandemic updates is important, ultimately, a positive mindset and the ability to switch off will help people cope better day-to-day. Art has inadvertently reached a wider audience and range of participants. It has served us well as a means of expression, a coping mechanism, and outlet of pent-up emotions and energies. The hope is that for the long term, access to all these creativity will carry over to sustained support of the arts beyond the days of the pandemic.

Side note: It is stinging that in the midst of all these creativity, collaboration and support between artists, media, corporations and in the government, in the Philippines, ABS-CBN, the largest entertainment and media conglomerate, with a little bit more than 11,000 employees, was shut down on May 5, 2020.

It is a perplexing turn of events at these times: • when media plays a crucial role in disseminating crucial and credible information on Covid-19, and in ensuring that these information reaches the most number of citizens; • when people are already losing their jobs due to Covid-19 and public health concerns, the last thing needed are job losses due to political wranglings; • when entertainment is essential for mental health, easing people’s anxiety born out of lockdown and quarantine orders; • when empathetic conduct from leaders is respected and honoured.

Hopefully, a resolution of this issue is forthcoming.

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

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

Community | Business

MAY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Max’s, Mangan-Quickly reopen dine-in; Palabok, Panciteria, Food To Go maintain pick up service

By Moses Billacura

Mangan at Quickly Premium Bubble Tea-Callingwood and Max’s Restaurant have reopened its dine-in service while Palabok

House, Panciteria de Manila and Food To Go have maintained its pick up service.

In an IG post on May 18, Mangan at Quickly announced that they are happy to start serving customers

Photo source: Panciteria De Manila

again. Curb side service is available and customers are encouraged to book a time and order ahead. Dine-in service is limited to follow provincial health regulations.

Max’s Restaurant has started serving diners on May 15 following a FridaySaturday-Sunday dine-in schedule starting from 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

“Yun lang, dadagsain kami nito, pero wala naman pong maghihintay sa harap ng store, sa kotse lang lahat. Check in sila thru Waitwhile then customers will receive a text message kapag ready na table nila,” said Max’s manager Edwin Arciaga.

Philippine Business Society of Alberta president and owner of Panciteria de Manila Restaurant Bayani Alcantara said Panciteria keep its call, text for order and pick up service for the meantime.

“Yan lang muna,” said Alcantara, whose restaurant is located in the north side of Edmonton.

Lydia Jimenez of Palabok House Restaurant in the south side of the city said that they are planning to resume their dine-in service, and carefully following health regulations, in June. Food to Go

by Marsha’s Marsha Aragon said they are also thinking to receive diners next month.

The government of Alberta has started to allow dine-in services provided it is not more than 50 percent seating capacity.

The complete guidance for restaurants can be found on alberta.ca/BizConnect.

Alcantara hopes that the Covid-19 pandemic will be over because it has deeply hurt the restaurant business.

“We rely on people coming in to our restaurants, that’s how we best serve them,” said Alcantara, whose restaurant has been a regular venue for the live performance of local Pinoy bands and singers.

Image courtesy of Max's.

Photo source: Palabok House

PH Consul General urges Filipinos to apply for assistance due to Covid-19

By Moses Billacura

Philippine Consul General for Alberta and Saskatchewan Provinces Zaldy Patron has urged Temporary Filipino Workers including undocumented Filipinos, who came in first as TFWs, to avail of the Covid-19 government assistance for Filipinos.

In an online meeting with Filipino newsmen last May 12, Patron said that all they need to do is to send an email and to let them know of their situation.

The Philippine Overseas Labor Office in Vancouver will receive requests for assistance through email address, vancouverakap@ gmail.com.

Once the requirements are complied, POLO Vancouver will deposit the $285 Canadian to their bank accounts.

Meanwhile, Patron said that assistance was given to the family of Armando Sallegue who died on May 5 after being infected by the novel coronavirus. The 71-year-old Sallegue came to Alberta to visit his son Arwyn's family.

Patron said they were able to contact the daughter-in-law Mercy and assistance were extended on hospital bills and cremation. He said the Filipino community can also extend assistance directly to Mercy Rencio Sallegue.

In other developments, the Consul-General’s office has also reached out to the Filipino community affected by floods in Fort McMurray.

All photos and articles available online. Follow us

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Inspiration | Community | Business | Sports

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL MAY 2020

Childhood Dreams Do Come True Professional STAR is an organization of professionals and students who are engaged in trades, arts, and research. It aims to empower the community through self-growth, professional development, continuous education and life-long learning, mentorship, leadership, relationship-building, equality, inclusivity, promotion of positive change and innovation.

Lead Correspondent and Writer: Dessa Mapa International Director for Corporate Communications - Professional STAR Assistant Correpondents: John Mark Galiza President 2020 - NAIT Philippines Students Association Manny Bautista Organizer and Corporate Planning and Strategy - Professional STAR

A

ll of us have childhood dreams, but not many of us dare to become what we dreamt ourselves to be. Shelvie Marie Fernan, a successful Filipina entrepreneur in Edmonton, proves that with passion and perseverance, and living to realize a childhood dream will make our dreams come true. Shelvie's success in business makes Cinderella's song real: "A dream is a wish your heart makes…Have faith in your dreams, and someday, your rainbow will come smiling through. No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing, the dream that you wish will come true."

Shelvie Fernan, one of the cofounders of Fly and Fetch, planted and cultivated her dreams in Iligan City, a province in the southern part of the Philippines. At a very young age, she experienced a dramatic change in her life, which caused her to spend her

childhood years with her mom's sister, whom she called "mommy" before she moved to Canada. Although she did not quite spend her childhood around her biological parents, she felt blessed to have been raised by a very supportive second set of parents who reared her in a strict, religious upbringing. The young Shelvie knew she wanted to be an entrepreneur even as she sold "yema," one of the most delectable Filipino treats and some other creative pieces she made to her classmates and friends.

Even if Shelvie's second parents were supportive, they did not want her to become an entrepreneur. As conservative Filipino parents, their dream for their children was for them to finish a course that will help their kids get a high-paying job, working in a company. Moreover, her adoptive parents saw no point in pursuing a business course since they do not own any business. She ended up taking

the Electronics and Communications Engineering program, instead of a business or an entrepreneurship program that she very much wanted.

Even if she took a different program, she did not forget her love for business.

She also realized that technology could provide her with the tools and opportunities to set up her business.

Before coming to Canada, she recognized the opportunity of helping the people in her province who could not get affordable, fashionable clothes. In Iligan City, clothes were costly because of the limited supply. Her love for the arts and fashion drove her to put up an e-commerce business that sold stylish but affordable clothing in response to the problem in her community.

This success that she was gaining from her online business was cut short when her biological parents urged her to immigrate with them to Canada. She was not able to finish the engineering program because her family decided to move to a new country. Because she had already experienced some success back in the Philippines, she was reluctant at first to comply with this life-changing decision. With the encouragement of her two sets of parents, and because she is a natural risk-taker and a positive thinker, Shelvie took that leap of faith.

Eventually, she realized that becoming a resident in a different country and

adapting to the new are not obstacles, but opportunities and stepping stones for her to reach her goals.

When she came to Canada, she took a business program because she wanted to pursue a business related to fashion. She was then thinking of employing women in the Philippines to create clothes that she could import to Canada. Even though her education was not instrumental in fulfilling her plans of having an online fashion business and since said business did not push through due to the high cost of importing the products, she still enjoyed and fell in love with her studies. Before she finished her studies, she had a baby and was thinking of discontinuing her education. She applied for a few jobs and had a lot of interviews, but she knew that taking any of the jobs was not right for her, and it was not what she truly wanted. According to her, "I felt that I'm getting less than what I deserve. I felt like I can do better, and if I take any of those jobs, I won't be able to reach my full potential." She eventually decided to push through and continued on page 17►

PCG Congratulates Newly Promoted Filipina Professor of University of Lethbridge 15 May 2020, Calgary – The Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Calgary is pleased to learn about the promotion of Dr. Glenda Tibe Bonifacio to the rank of Professor at the University of Lethbridge effective 1 July 2020.

In a letter addressed to Dr. Bonifacio, Consul General Zaldy Patron congratulated her for being the first Filipino-Canadian full professor at the University of Lethbridge.

Consul General Patron called Dr. Bonifacio an inspiration to the Filipino community in Alberta. “Dr. Bonifacio’s many accomplishments in the academic field are truly impressive and I hope that some of our fellow Filipinos in Canada will follow her footsteps,” he said.

Dr. Bonifacio received her

Doctorate in Philosophy from the University of Wollongong in New South Wales, Australia, in 2004 where she did a dissertation on "Filipino Women and their Citizenship in Australia: In Search of Political Space." She completed her Master of Arts in Asian Studies in 1991 at the University of the Philippines and graduated as magna cum laude in 1984 at the University of the Philippines-Visayas where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences (Political Science).

Dr. Bonifacio’s career as a member of the academe at the University of Lethbridge began with her term as a Women’s Studies Assistant Professor in 2005, eventually becoming an Associate Professor in

2011. She was appointed as Chair of the Department of Women and Gender Studies in 2019.

Dr. Bonifacio has authored or co-authored a number of publications on various topics related to women, migration, gender and development, and religion. She has written many journal articles and has also contributed book chapters and book reviews.

Among her written works was the Pinay on the Prairies: Filipino Women and Transnational Identities, which was published in 2013.

Dr. Glenda Tibe Bonifacio (2nd from left) with Consul General Zaldy Patron (3rd from left) and University of Lethbridge President Mike Mahon (2nd from right) during the Consul General’s official visit at the University of Lethbridge on 13 September 2019.

Edmonton Pinoy Dirt Bikers have started their week-end rides and are inviting other enthusiasts to join them.

Photo shows Chris Ayson, Gerry Taguiam, Melchor, Gatan, Rhuddy, Togie and Randy pose for posterity, May 9, in Vega, Alberta. (Contributed photo) www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

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

Points of View | Philippine News

MAY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Summary of COVID-19 Related Resources

By Giselle General

T

he current pandemic and the challenging impact in our lives is being experienced by everyone in different ways. It can be overwhelming and stressful to know where to get help and support. As a starting point, this is a summary of some resources to get information and support.

Apps available to download and use during this time: - Canada COVID-19 App: This app is made by the Government of Canada, on the federal level. The app will support you to track your symptoms, receive the latest updates, and access trusted resources. It is available on Apple App Store and Google Play. For those who do not want to download the app but would like to use it using a website page, the link is: https://ca.thrive.health/ covid19app - Government of Alberta ABTraceTogeher App: This app is to help communicate more effectively to people if they have interacted with someone who has a confirmed

COVID-19 case. Once installed, the app uses a phone’s Bluetooth to log anytime it comes within two metres of another person with the app for a cumulative 15 minutes.

It is available on Apple App Store and Google Play. The use of the app is voluntary and is opt-in/ opt-out, according to news releases.

For more information, the news release on this link can explain in more detail: https://globalnews.ca/ news/6894997/covid-19-albertahealth-contact-tracing-app/ Government Related Resources - Federal Government: This specific link is the official webpage from the Government of Canada regarding all updates and resources about COVID-19 including the different programs to provide relief and support. On https://www.canada.ca/ en/public-health/services/diseases/ coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html - Provincial Government: This specific link is the official webpage from the Government of Alberta regarding all updates and resources about COVID-19, including the different programs to provide relief

and support. https://www.alberta.ca/ coronavirus-info-for-albertans.aspx - Municipal Government: This specific link is the official webpage from the City of Edmonton regarding all updates and resources about COVID-19 including the different programs to provide relief and support. https://www.edmonton. ca/programs_services/emergency_ preparedness/covid-19.aspx Resources to Address Key needs - Updates about the Law and Legal Help: This Legal FAQs page is a great ouline of all legal needs, such as information about access to the courthouse, changes in the law, particularly renters right and employment law issues, and which organizations are open to give legal help: https://www.law-faqs.org/ covid-19/ - Open Local Businesses to Purchase Needs: Every day, there are changes to regulations about size of gatherings and which businesses are permitted to open. This handy webpage is a resource to see which businesses are open, and is also a great opportunity

to support local businesses. https:// edmonton.thingsthatareopen.com/ - Mental Health and Therapy Supports: The pandemic could cause different kinds of emotional distress. The Canadian Mental Health Association’s website (that has online chat) https://edmonton. cmha.ca/ and Distress Line 780482-HELP (4357) is available for support. Sometimes, speaking to

Tagaytay, Philippines. A Place of Warmth.

T

agaytay, officially the City of Tagaytay or simply known as Tagaytay City, is a 2nd class city in the province of Cavite, Philippines. It is one of the country's most popular tourist destinations because of its scenery and cooler climate provided by its altitude. Tagaytay overlooks Taal Lake in Batangas and provides views of Taal Volcano Island in the middle of the lake through various vantage points situated in the city.

Whether you're a self-professed beach vacationer or a mountain-loving purist, Tagaytay has something unique to offer you. Long before Manila-dwellers began a long-distance affair with the highlands of Baguio, Sagada and Kalinga, they have been in a longstanding romance with Tagaytay. It’s not a high-maintenance relationship.

The physical connection is there. It is geographically close, easily accessible, and it doesn’t demand too much time or money. It’s the kind that will last over more decades. Some of the Tourist from page 16

Childhood Dreams Do Come.. finish her degree with flying colours while going through her pregnancy and then rearing her son.

Before graduation, Shelvie was offered a technology-related job where she was exposed to technology and where she created connections with other technopreneurs who inspired her. She worked for this company for a year. During this time, she experienced how technology empowers the future, and saw how everything undergoes digital transformation.

This experience made her decide that if she was going to have a business, it should be related to technology. Along the way, Shelvie crossed paths with Victoria, who eventually became the co-founder of Fly & Fetch.

After she quit her job, Shelvie was so eager to start a business. She thought of setting up a company that sells earring collections. She wanted this business because she thought

Attractions in Tagaytay includes Palace in The Sky. It is originally created as a presidential rest house of former president Ferdinand Marcos but the construction was not finished until

now. However, it is open for public people where you can spot a nice view of Taal Volcano. Picnic Grove is really an ideal place for a picnic. It's a very popular spot for day and overnight

fun activities in the city. You will enjoy the picnic because of the breathtaking view and cool wind. You can also tour the park while ride on a bicycle or a horse. You can also visit the Flower Farm in Tagaytay. Various flowers can be found here at the farm. It’s genuinely breathtaking, to include it in your itinerary whether you’re a first-timer or frequent goer is never a bad idea. Couple that with the fact that Tagaytay is slightly elevated too, which manifests in its cooler temperatures and balcony-like views. However, the volcano is not the only sight to see in this place. Plenty of other big municipalities in the South of Metro Manila, namely Cavite, Batangas, and Laguna are easy to reach to and from Tagaytay. It means many roads lead to the area and it’s easy to ask locals around for some popular Tagaytay tourist spots you must visit. Knowing this information can also help you better decide which accommodation you would prefer. If you’re one of

that it would express who she is. She even went as far as asking help from friends in the Philippines who could potentially become her supplier. As Victoria questioned her ideas, they both came to realize that the earrings business that Shelvie thought of was not feasible because of the expense of importing. To solve this problem, Shelvie had the idea that she would just find individuals who would fly to the Philippines and come back to Canada. She could let them carry a couple of kilograms of earrings and pay them about 50 dollars in exchange for shipping the earrings from the Philippines to Canada. Both of them realized that this idea of connecting people to provide an affordable shipping and delivery service is a great business opportunity. From this idea, Fly & Fetch was born.

Considering the successes she has achieved as a young entrepreneur, Shelvie never forgot to look back.

She continues to recognize her past experiences and acknowledge the people

who raised, trained and mentored her.

She recognizes those who provided her with knowledge, who instilled values in her and who guided her. In the same way, she knew the importance of paying it forward. Because of her success as a young entrepreneur, Shelvie is now part of the Professional STAR as the Director for Entrepreneurship and Youth Empowerment. Through this organization, she is now engaged in mentoring activities for students, young professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs who also dream of being successful. Through these endeavours, she continues to show true leadership by reaching out, inspiring passion in others, and guiding them to reach their dreams. Furthermore, Shelvie also gives back by providing individuals with access to basic supplies such as medicine and food in this time of the COVID-19 pandemic through Fly & Fetch. Through Fly & Fetch's contactless delivery, individuals and families around Edmonton who are under national quarantine or self-

isolation can connect with "fetchers" who can pick up grocery items for them for free.

Shelvie's success with Fly & Fetch was never easy, nor was it free.

Throughout her journey to success, she experienced failures and rejections.

According to Shelvie, "If it's easy, it's not worth it. To be successful at anything in life, you have to make certain sacrifices. I have always envisioned what I wanted to be 5, 15, and 20 years from the moment I started business school. So, I dedicated myself to becoming who I want to be, the CEO of a successful company. I was very busy, I worked 3 part-time jobs, I had full-time classes, and I would always take every opportunity to learn. I was always ready by 6 AM and I would arrive home by 10 PM. The biggest sacrifice is time with friends, family, and self-love. I learned later on that successful people need to balance their time too."

These experiences that Shelvie journeyed through taught her and

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a compassionate listener who is professionally trained can improve our mental and emotional state.

While there are lots of resources in this article, I encourage everyone to continue their independent research and to verify each resources before using or accessing them. Stay safe and healthy everyone.

Byahe ni Kat

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

those people who enjoy drinking a hot cup of coffee while taking in the cold Tagaytay weather and spectacular views, then it’s time to start making arrangements for your next getaway! moulded her to have the character and the beliefs needed to be a successful entrepreneur. One of them is having the confidence to take the challenge.

When her parents urged her to take the engineering program, she took it as a challenge, and she was confident and smart enough to learn how an engineer's brain works. During her school years, she was also trained to be competitive, to endure the hardships, and to go above and beyond when dealing with challenges. This training honed her to become competitive and disciplined, not just to make their business survive, but also to make the business a forerunner in its field. Most of all, Shelvie believes in keeping the dream alive through courage, determination, persistence, dedication and focus.

Because of these qualities and traits that Shelvie acquired, she continuously makes her dreams come true as she paves the way and encourages others to be successful in following their childhood dreams too. www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

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Opinion | Community | National Government Advisory

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL MAY 2020

ABS-CBN shut down and the vicious cycle of forced migration 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.

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Kaya ko; Kaya Mo! may katuturan. Iyan ang nakatanim sa aking isipan.

Struggles. Halos lahat na marahil ay naranasan ko: Ang lungkot sa pagiisa at pagkawalay sa mga mahal ko sa buhay. Aking kinaya at nalampasan.

Naatim ko ang lahat ng pang-aapi, pangmamaliit, at maging pananakit ng mga amo ko sa pabrika. Walang hindi nalampasan sa tulong at gabay ng pananalig sa Panginoon. Tiniis ko dahil Pinoy ako at may pamilya ako na umaasa sa Pilipinas. May nanay at tatay ako na gusto ko na maging proud sa akin balang araw; dahil sa pamilya namin, ako ang pinaka-pasaway noong bata pa ako. Mistulang wala akong pangarap sa buhay noon.

Entrance into the room of Success.

Bago ko narating itong munting hanapbuhay naming mag asawa, nagsimula ako bilang tagatapon ng basura ng mga foreman at ka-trabaho ko sa Canada oilfield pipeline insulating.

M

any homes of Filipino migrants, immigrants and the general diaspora anywhere in the world have access to TFC or “The Filipino Channel”. Some of you will remember the satellites installed to broadcast shows in the mid 1990s. Ten years later, TFC cable boxes were “the thing”. And the boom of the internet created TFC Online that streams shows over the internet directly to people’s phones, tablets and laptops.

On May 5, the Philippine government’s Na tional Telecommunication Commission (NTC) issued a Cease and Desist Order against the ABS-CBN Franchise. The 25 year permit to broadcast from May 4th 1995 expired.

ABS-CBN is part of the long Philippine broadcast history. The company is a merger between two of the oldest broadcasting corporations in the Philippines. The Alto Broadcasting

Systems (ABS) was renamed from Bolinao Electronics Corp., which was established in 1950. It launched the first television broadcast in the Philippines in the 1950s. It was owned

by Antonio Quirino, the brother of former president Elpidio Quirino. In 1958 Eugenio Lopez Sr. acquired ABS from the Quirinos. The merger was officialized in 1968, with the creation of the ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corp.

However 4 years later, a day after the declaration of martial law, ABS-CBN was seized by the government during Marcos dictatorship.

Since 2014, there have been many bills that have been filed in Philippine Congress seeking the renewal of the franchise. On the day before the Philippine election on May 5, 2016, ABS-CBN aired a paid ad by Antonio Trillanes, a staunch President Duterte critic, criticizing Rodrigo Duterte.

President Duterte threatened to block

March 21, 2013 nang dumating ako ako dito sa Canada. Three years akong naging helper. I became a permanent resident in 2017. I decided to moonlight and luckily being hired to another company. Sa oilfield pa din. This is where I started to discover my potential in line with what I really like doing. I got promoted from being a helper to 2nd Lead to a Filipino Foreman.

Outside my regular job description, I became a salesman of the company where I served. I used to go out and from there, I also found out that I love talking with people. I gained customers’ confidence and was able to close the deals.

My motivator and eye-opener. It was my mother-in-law who encouraged me to take the guts. Sinabi niya sa akin na meron pala naman akong kakayahang kumuha ng sariling project. Isa pang nagbukas ng bintana ng tagumpay sa akin ay kakilala kong consultant. He also gave me an idea of putting up my own company. Kase nga, ako naman daw halos lahat ang gumagawa: alam

ko ang trabaho ng Foreman; ako din ang kumukuha ng project at mga manggagawa.

Sinubukan ko at naganap nga!

Pinoy tayo at walang hindi kayang gawin.

Diskarte at lakas ng loob lang talaga ang puhunan. At syempre, dapat ay naregalohan ka din ng isang napakabuti at super supportive na asawa. Magkatuwang kami sa lahat ng bagay. Higit sa lahat ay ang sa pananalangin. Isinangguni at ipinagkatiwala naming mag-asawa sa Panginoon ang lahat naming gawain. At napaka-totoo, magkakasunod na biyaya ang aming natamo.

Upgrading and acquisition of new skills. Sinikap kong makabalik sa school upang paunlarin pa lalo ang aking kaalaman sa pipe insulating industry. Nag-enroll ako sa SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology). Bagama’t pwede naman magtayo ako ng ganitong hanap-buhay kahit hindi na magbalik sa paaralan. It was purely my own choice.

As far as I remember, i decided to come to this Country for a very simple reason. That is, to change my life. Nais kong mapagmalaki ako ng aking pamilya.

It was my intense desire to serve the dream of my parents—that is, becoming a useful creature. Nais kong ipagmalaki ako ng aking nanay at tatay.

Unfortunately, namatay ang tatay ko na hindi niya nakita ang malaking pagbabagong ito sa aking buhay. Ang nagbago kong mga pananaw. Na, may kakayahan nga pala akong tugisin ang tagumpay upang maipamana na rin naming mag-asawa sa aming mga anak, mga kapatid, sa aking byenan, at sa nanay ko na siyang saksi sa patuloy kong pagangat. Labis ngayon ang kasiyahan ni nanay, nakabawi na ako sa kaya, kahit wala na si tatay. Kay nanay ako babawi.

Kakayahin kong ibigay sa kanya ang kaginhawahan at magandang buhay habang siya ay kapiling namin-Bilang ganti sa pagmamahal, paghihirap at pagaaruga niya sa aming magkakapatid noong kami ay bata pa.

Pieces of Advice to my younger self: 1. Diyos ang una sa lahat. Siya ang sanhi ng mabiyayang buhay at sandigan ng lahat ng tagumpay. Kung wala Siya, wala tayong magagawa. Huwag na huwag makakalimutan magpasalamat sa mga biyayang ating tinanggap. Gayundin naman, ibahagi natin sa kapwa ang ating tagumpay.

2. Pamilya ang pangalawa. Kahit anuman ang mangyari, huwag na huwag tatalikuran and pamilya.

3. Igalang ang mga magulang. Utang din natin sa kanila kung ano tayo ngayon.

4. Tuloy-tuloy ang buhay at tagumpay.

Huwag mong hayaan na hadlangan ka ng ibang tao sa pangarap mo.

5. Huwag susuko sa laban ng buhay.

Kapag may tiyaga, may nilaga.

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the renewal of ABS-CBN’s franchise.

He claimed that the network did not show his already paid ads during his 2016 campaign period although his team had paid for the airtime and the network failed to return the payment.

Critics have accused the president of having a hand in the non renewal of the franchise. Many say there were no grounds for non renewal, and a majority of the Philippine Senators supported the corporation. Artists from competing stations have also called on the president to support the renewal.

NTC’s cease and desist order against ABS-CBN has an eerie feel of the Marcos martial law years. Those were the times where freedom of the press was trampled upon. It also quashed the people’s freedom of information.

In the case of the new ABS-CBN seizure, it is not only an attack on press freedom but an act of hostility

against its 11,000 employees. There are thousands of ABS-CBN employees whose families will now have to face grimmer days ahead due to the loss of their livelihood and employment.

Losing a job and their future in this time of the COVID-19 global pandemic is cruel. These workers are not the millionaire actors and actresses. They are the rank and file workers that are trying to make ends meet.

Many Filipino diaspora will miss their dose of tele-serye, Philippine news and other entertainment shows.

Surely ABS-CBN will survive in different formats and platforms. They will continue to make millions from cable subscribers. But without decent jobs back home, what will happen to the 11,000 unemployed ABS-CBN workers? They will find their way to migrate and work abroad. The vicious circle of forced migration continues.

Prime Minister announces expansion of support for workers and small businesses Throughout the pandemic, the Government of Canada has focused on keeping Canadians safe and healthy and helping families pay their bills.

That’s why we have introduced strong measures to protect middle class jobs and support businesses, so they can keep Canadians on the payroll during this challenging time.

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced an expansion to the eligibility criteria for the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) to include many owner-operated small businesses. This extended measure will help small businesses protect the jobs that Canadians rely on.

The changes to the CEBA will allow more Canadian small businesses to access interest free loans that will help cover operating costs during a period when revenues have been reduced, due to the pandemic.

The program will now be available to a greater number of businesses that are sole proprietors receiving income directly from their businesses, businesses that rely on contractors, and family-owned corporations that pay employees through dividends rather than payroll.

To qualify under the expanded eligibility criteria, applicants with payroll lower than $20,000 would need: • a business operating account at a participating financial institution • a Canada Revenue Agency business number, and to have filed a 2018 or 2019 tax return.

• eligible non-deferrable expenses between $40,000 and $1.5 million.

Eligible non-deferrable expenses could include costs such as rent, property taxes, utilities, and insurance.

Expenses will be subject to verification and audit by the Government of Canada. Funding will be delivered in partnership with financial institutions.

More details, including the launch date for applications under the new criteria, will follow in the days to come. To date, over 600,000 small businesses have accessed the CEBA, and the government will work on potential solutions to help business owners and entrepreneurs who operate through their personal bank account, as opposed to a business account, or have yet to file a tax return, such as newly created businesses.

This measure is part of the Government of Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan, which is putting Canadians and the protection of middle class jobs first. We will continue to help all Canadians, and

together we will get through this crisis.

Quotes “Canadians are counting on us to protect their jobs and help them pay their bills during this difficult time. By expanding the CEBA, we will be giving more businesses access to the support they need, so they can help protect workers and the jobs they rely on. Today we are helping to keep more businesses open and more Canadians working, so we are better prepared for the recovery to come.”

—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada “Our government has been taking action since the start of this crisis to support the small businesses that define our Main Streets and provide jobs that Canadians rely on. We have been listening to you throughout this, and will continue to, to make sure we’re delivering the support Canadian businesses need to get through this tough time and be well positioned for success once the recovery begins.”

—The Hon. Bill Morneau, Minister of Finance “Small businesses are at the heart of our communities, and they drive our national economy. By making our lending supports more generous and inclusive, we’re working hard to save Canadian jobs and businesses.

We will continue to be there for Canadian businesses and workers every step of the way through this crisis.”

—The Hon. Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade Quick Facts • Launched on April 9, 2020, the CEBA provides zero-interest, partially forgivable loans up to $40,000 to small businesses that have experienced diminished revenues due to COVID-19, but face ongoing non-deferrable costs such as rent, utilities, insurance, taxes, and employment costs. Twenty-five per cent of this loan is forgivable if repaid

by December 31, 2022.

• The CEBA is administered by Export Development Canada, which is working closely with Canadian financial institutions to deliver the loans to their existing business banking customers.

• When first launched, the CEBA was designed to allow for rapid deployment of credit to businesses with 2019 payroll between $50,000 and $1 million. The government then expanded the eligibility parameters of the program, by increasing the payroll eligibility range to between $20,000 and $1.5 million.

• Since the CEBA’s launch, over 600,000 loans have been approved, representing a total of more than $24 billion in credit.

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

Advisory | Religion | Media Partner

MAY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

PHILIPPINE AIRLINES TRAVEL ADVISORY To All International Passengers Arriving in the Philippines: The Philippine government is implementing stricter quarantine and testing procedures for all arriving passengers, effective immediately, under a new directive from the Inter-Agency Task Force on COVID-19.

All passengers will be required to undergo quarantine for at least 14 days after arrival in the Philippines.

Upon arrival, passengers will need to undergo special screening procedures at the airport to be conducted by government health professionals. The screening will determine the type of quarantine that will be required, whether “stringent” or “mandatory”: 1. STRINGENT QUARANTINE Required for all passengers coming from a “highrisk” area (identified by the WHO as an area with high level of COVID-19 community transmission), or from a high-risk vessel in the case of sea-based overseas Filipinos; or any passenger with flu-like symptoms as assessed by a health officer at the airport.

— Must undergo RT PCR COVID-19 testing at the port of entry or designed quarantine facility; and — Must stay in a government-designated stringent quarantine facility until their test

results are released.

— If test results are positive, will be transferred to a designated hospital for further medical management.

— If test results are negative, will be allowed to move out to undergo a 14-day quarantine at home or an appropriate local monitoring facility 2. MANDATORY QUARANTINE — Required for all other passengers (those not assigned to undergo stringent quarantine) — Must undergo Rapid Antibody COVID-19 testing; and — Must stay at a government-designated 14-day mandatory quarantine facility.

Passenger will have the option to stay at a hotel designated as an approved quarantine facility, at his or her choice and own expense.

For more details and information on these new requirements and related concerns, you may call the government’s One Stop Shop hotline number +63 9161019964.

These new procedures and requirements are meant to protect your health and safety.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

PHILIPPINE AIRLINES REDEFINES THE NORMAL FLYING EXPERIENCE AMID COVID-19 As we get ready to fly again, we are adding more safety measures to protect you. In line with the highest standards, here is what you can expect to ensure that you enjoy a healthy, safe, and clean environment on your next PAL flight.

We would like to note that this list may be updated regularly. It is the passenger’s responsibility to find out and to comply with the full travel requirements for his flight/ destination.

BEFORE THE FLIGHT 1. All passengers must bring their own face masks. Failure to bring a face mask will result to denial in boarding. We allow surgical, ear loop, or do-it-yourself masks, as well as other protective shielding (except for flights to or from Singapore, Xiamen, Macau or Honolulu where only surgical masks are allowed; infants up to 2 years old are exempted).

2. We encourage passengers to bring their own sanitizers and their onboard travel essentials.

You may bring hand sanitizers with maximum content of 70% alcohol, up to 10 pcs of 100mL as part of carry-on).

3. All carry-on-items must be limited to 2kgs of small personal items (laptop bag or small bag PLUS an overcoat / wrap / blanket, reasonable amount of reading materials, small camera or binoculars, infant case, infant Food, and sealed Duty-Free bag). For PWDs, the previous items shall be in addition to the assistive devices that may be carried for free. We will transfer 5kgs from all passengers' carry-on bag allowance to their check-in allocation.

4. Online check-in is encouraged. To ensure ample time for security checks, we urge passengers to arrive early at the airport. a. 4 hours prior to departure from Manila (International flights) b. 3 hours prior to departure from Manila (Domestic flights) and other airports POINT OF BOOKING All ticket offices will follow thermal scanning and managed social distancing. Our service personnel will be equipped with transparent barriers and face masks. We will implement a no-mask-no-entry policy in our ticket offices.

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The right attitude to have in difficult times FROM A VANTAGE POINT

Tito S.Venida FOUNDING FATHER

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

He used to be a student-leader during his college days and became one of the founders of the Tau Gamna Phi, one of the world leading Philippineproduced fraternities. His immensurable love for the human race has brought him to the conviction of translating his mission from fraternity into Divinity--from a mere brotherhood into sainthood.

Tito authored a book entitled Quocunque Jeceris Stabit, which means, wherever you throw, it will stand.

OUR TEXT “Serve the Lord with gladness: come before His presence with singing.”

Psalm 100:2 KJV If you lost your job during this difficult time your faith, this time more than ever, will play a huge role in your life. The Bible says that we as Christians must put our trust in God that He will be with us through thick and thin.

God will provide everything that we need. Hebrews 4:16 says, “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” While it may not seem, in the heat of the moment, that God is on our side – we must know that He has a bigger plan of action.

The Lord’s willingness to provide is mentioned again in Psalm 50:15, “And call upon me in the day of trouble, I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.”

No matter what has happened, God is saying that He will always be there to give us the essentials to live.

It’s a lot easier said than done when it comes to being unemployed. Not having a source of production and a means to an income can be very daunting, especially if you’ve worked in one location for a long amount of time.

Even then, we need to have the right attitude in this very difficult time by: Serving the Lord with gladness and coming to His presence with singing.

Amen.

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

AT THE AIRPORT We will do our best to implement social distancing while passengers are waiting, on-queue, or inside PAL buses. At the airport, passengers can expect thermal scans at entry points, distribution of locator forms, available sanitizers, and other security checks. Like our ticketing personnel, our ground staff will be equipped with face masks. Passengers must also wear their face mask all the time.

MABUHAY LOUNGE All PAL Mabuhay Lounges will have sanitizing mats, meals in sealed packaging, hand sanitizers, and on-demand beverage services. All lounge staff will likewise wear protective gear.

INSIDE THE AIRCRAFT PAL's entire fleet of aircraft will continue to undergo rigorous cabin cleaning and desinfection. All contact surfaces are wiped down using stronger cleaning agents and our HEPA filters are maintained regularly.

DURING THE FLIGHT Inflight Service: All of our cabin crew will be on full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and will temporarily adhere to simplified inflight services.

Meals: We will continue to follow Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) procedures when preparing inflights meals.

For Australia, Middle East, and Long Haul flights, all mid-flight snacks will be in sealed packaging.

Seating: For flexibility, passengers will have Social Distancing cabin seating options.

Providing you greater peace of mind while traveling Booking a ticket with Philippine Airlines is an assurance that you enjoy peace of mind and the highest standards of safety and security. We provide passengers with non-stop direct flight for added comfort and decreased stopovers in different airports. Philippine Airlines’ fleet of aircraft boasts roomier seat configuration, offering wider seat pitch, seat widths, and legroom, compared to budget carriers and even some full-service airlines.

Most importantly, we take pride in our crew who are equipped with special training and briefings on preventive measures and medical protocols.

Kindly check our website www.philippineairlines.com or follow our social media accounts, for any updates on new developments.

All photos and articles available online. Follow us

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Poetry | Brain Twisters

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL MAY 2020

CR OSSWOR D

Pagpupugay sa Ating Mga Ina Ni Jonabel Cabasal

Inay, Inang, Mommy, Nanay, Mama Anuman ang tawag natin sa kaniya Isa siyang “INA”- tinaguriang dakila sa buhay ninuman Dapat ipagmalaki, igalang at pahalagahan.

Pagmamahal niya ay di lubos na mapapantayan ng sinuman Ito’y kanyang napatunayan mula noong tayo’y nasa kanyang sinapupunan Kaya nama’y dapat siyang handugan kahit sa paraang simple lamang Upang mabigyan ng inspirasyon at ang pagmamahal nati’y kanya ring maramdaman.

Mga materyales na bagay mula sa anak ay di niya hinahanap Upang maipakita natin ang pag-ibig na ganap Isang mainit na halik sa pisngi at mahigpit na yakap Ang mga ito sa kanya’y sadya nang sapat na sapat.

Sa ating mga tagumpay na natamasa sa buhay Pakatandaan, naging bahagi siya dahil sa walang humpay na gabay Kung pagkamusmos ay ating babalikan, marami na siyang nagampanan Nagsilbing unang guro upang maging handa sa pagpasok sa unang baitang.

ACROSS

Sa mga panahong tayo’y may mga karamdaman Buong magdamag kinarga, kinalinga at binantayan Tiniyak na tayo’y nasa mabuting kalagayan Inalagaan na parang ginto ang katuturan.

Ang ating mga ina ay regalo mula sa Dakilang May Likha Di dapat ikahiya lalo na kung sila’y tumanda Bagkus pakamahalin, alagaan na tulad ng sa ati’y pag-aruga Sa isip at puso niya’y iyan lamang ang tanging kanyang ninanasa.

Atin nang sambitin, “Salamat sa inyong mga ginawa.

Anong klase kaya ang mundo ko kung wala ka aking ina?

Ina, Bayani ka! Maligayang Araw ng Mga Ina, Mahal na mahal kita.”

HOROSCOPE

My name is Jonabel Cabasal. I am a former Philippine public school teacher and I am presently working with Preschoolers. I am also a Filipino Language, Arts and Culture Teacher at Saranay Association. I was inspired on Mother’s Day to write a poem in honour of mothers as I was sitting at home, thinking of our inability to socialize on what is traditionally a well-celebrated event.

DOWN Copyright @ www.horoscope.com

Your mood is good today, Aries, and you're well supported by the people you interact with. The key is bringing intense feelings directly to the virtual table as you experience them. You'll find that other people share similar emotions right now. This combination of energies between all of you is simply magical, even as you communicate remotely.

Consciously accept that you're someone unique and special, Libra. Remember this affirmation through the day and let your actions reflect it. This could be an intense day for many reasons, and others might be on edge because of it. Don't be disrupted by anyone freaking out. Whatever the cause, you'll be able to easily handle this intense blast of emotion, because emotions are your forte!

Today is one of those intense days in which you feel overpowered by the energy around you. Don't resist this feeling, Taurus. Remember that it's OK to have a little downtime instead of feeling like you have to always be onstage. Being mellow and quiet will do you a world of good. Sink into your emotions and experience them for the power that they can bring to your overall psyche.

Today's intensity could work for you in one of two ways, Scorpio. Either you can feel depressed and weighed down by the intense emotionalism that's likely to well up, or you can put this incredible intensity to good use. The choice is yours. Realize that any action you take will be highly charged with feelings. Likewise, others will be extra sensitive about any move you make. Consider their feelings as well.

This is your day to shine, Gemini. Everyone else may be squirming under the moment's prevailing energy, but you should be perfectly equipped to deal with any events, global or personal, that come your way. Despite the intense fluctuations in your general mood, things are on the upswing. You'll find that matters will eventually come around your way.

Combine today's grounding force with a bit of emotional intensity from your heart to create a powerful combination of spirit that will surely make an impact on whatever you contact, Sagittarius. The key is to not take yourself too seriously. If you do, there might be incidents that will jump up to give you a thump on the head, reminding you that you're just as human as the rest of us.

You should be able to put on your famous smile this morning and keep it on all day, Cancer. That means smiling with your eyes from behind your facemask and advertising your beautiful soul to the world. If other people are sad, sympathize and encourage without actually taking on their problems.

Connect with the stabilizing force of the day, Leo. It's important to keep at least one foot on the ground, as powerful and intense emotions are likely to come sweeping through. This is a good time to do things with as much passion as quarantine and economic conditions allow. Don't hold back. There's no room for any half-hearted attempts. Whatever you do today, give it all or nothing.

Strong opinions might come into conflict with strong emotions today, Virgo.

Fountains of intensity could spring from you as if you were a bottomless well.

You might need to pay less attention to your logic and concede to the demands of your heart. As a result, it could be challenging to reason with people. If your heart doesn't support what you say, you might as well not say it.

April 2020 Crossword's Solution

1. Achieved 4. Computer input 8. ____ and see 12. Promissory note 13. Malicious 14. Singer _____ Williams 15. Flea market (2 wds.)

17. Intersection sign 18. Angel's headwear 19. Cold-blooded animal 21. Amtrak depot (abbr.)

24. Critic Rex ___ 25. Actress ___ Hepburn 29. Ancient 32. Flock member 33. Iron or lead

1. Platter 2. Dubuque's locale 3. Double 4. HST's party 5. Street (abbr.)

6. Row 7. Take turns 8. Squander 9. Poison remedy 10. Golden calf, e.g.

11. Kind 16. Luxurious 20. Kitchen gadget 22. Least wild 23. Phone number

prefixes (2 wds.)

Your lighthearted attitude won't play well to people with serious things on their mind, Capricorn. It could make you seem detached and insensitive to the grim realities of COVID-19. You get it, but you don't want to dwell on it every moment of every day. You might be better off simply unplugging from the conversation for a little while. Read a good book or magazine.

You should be able to put on your famous smile this morning and keep it on all day, Aquarius. That means smiling with your eyes from behind your facemask and advertising your beautiful soul to the world. If other people are sad, sympathize and encourage without actually taking on their problems.

Chances are that today will carry an emotional bite that lends a hostile tone to anything you encounter, Pisces. The key is not getting so fixed in your ways that you avoid new experiences. You'll find that interaction with others is exactly what's needed in order to keep things in balance. The masculine and feminine sides of your being are coming together quite nicely.

Copyright @ www.boatloadpuzzles.com

34. Excessively 35. Craving 36. Holiday hunter's

prize (2 wds.)

38. Part of DJ 40. Before, in verse 41. Capital of New Jersey 44. Remote 48. Not common 49. Time limit 52. Bakery employee 53. Pennyslvania port 54. SSW's opp.

55. Sassy 56. Lone 57. Moray

25. Florida Island 26. Astonish 27. More sensitive 28. That thing's 30. Ship's diary 31. Snoopy, e.g.

37. Not imagined 39. Motionless 41. Journey 42. Marathon, e.g.

43. Notorious emperor 45. Excellent 46. "The Diary of

____ Frank" 47. Film holder 50. Feel unwell 51. Poor grade

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

Here is the puzzle. Good luck!

April 2020 Issue Sudoku's Solution

Copyright @ www.puzzles.ca/sudoku.html

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

Greetings

MAY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Aylah Turns Twelve

Bea Turns 16 Beatrice Gocuan smiles for the camera on her 16th Birthday in a simple celebration held last May 16, 2020. Dad Nicky And Mom Lunha wish her good health, happiness and more Blessings.

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Congratulations to Aylah Angeles on her upcoming birthday May 22, 2020.

Wishing you years of good health and success in your school especially in your quest for diving excellence. Love you!

A Threshold To Ladyhood Katrina, a lovely daughter of Mervin and Cherry Cereno and a cool sister to Kristian and Kaye Cereno, Of course, one of the AFJ’s teen columnists, is a full-grown lady now as she turned 18 last May 8, 2020. A debut, for almost every girl, is considered a one-in-a-lifetime celebration that can ever be treasured and worthremembering. Especially, when a celebrant is surrounded by the significant people during this very special life’s celebration.

Happy 18th Birthday Katrina!

T hanking God for T he Gift of Life Its Adrian’s 24th Birthday, May 19, 2020. We Praise and Glorify the Lord for everything He has done for his life. Continue to serve the Lord with all your heart and may the Lord fulfill whatever your heart’s desire. Happy Birthday and God Bless you more. Love, Mom, Dad, Alexis & Allysa

th

Happy 19 Birthday

Julia Marie Chua, a sister to Anson and the only daughter of Andy and Elvie Chua celebrated her 19th birthday with her next of kins on the 18th of May 2020. Her father said: “As each year of changes, I can see two saient things that remain embedded in you as a person: obedience and sweetness.

I and your mom are lucky to have you as our first born.”

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Noel, Emily, Jun, Anson, Elvie, Ashley, Andy, Julia

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Points of View | Entertainment Event

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL MAY 2020

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MAY 2020 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Business

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Business

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