Alberta Filipino Journal - October 2022 Issue

IRCC ANNOUNCES TEMPORARY LIFTING ON THE WORK HOURS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

Beginning November 15, 2023 until December 31, 2023, international students who are in Canada and who have an

FROM MIGRATION TO IMMIGRATION

off-campus work authorization on their study permit will no longer be restricted by the 20-hour per week rule. Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Sean Fraser announced recently the temporary lifting of the 20-hour per week cap on the number of hours that eligible post-secondary students are allowed to work off campus while class is in session.

International student Janice Virtudazo started her program last September at NAIT and is happy with the new temporary policy. Virtudazo said that she is grateful for this temporary policy but reminded other international students to continue

to study full-time since this is the purpose of coming to Canada. She said she will try her best to balance her studies with work.

Janice Virtudazo International Student at NAIT

The Government of Canada said that this temporary change will provide many international students with greater opportunity to gain valuable work experience in Canada and will increase the availability of workers to sustain Canada’s postpandemic growth. IRCC announced that around 500,000 international students already in Canada will

benefit from this change.

Marjorie Carmona Newman is a REGULATED CANADIAN IMMIGRATION CONSULTANT based in Edmonton, Alberta. She is currently a member of CAPIC’s Policy 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 Members Service Award for four consecutive years (2015-2019).

Employers like Nelson Rodriguez welcome the news since they have faced unprecedented challenges in finding and retaining the workers they need. Rodriguez added that this temporary policy will help them however, this is not a permanent solution to their problem. He said that IRCC must explore other immigration programs to address the labour shortage in Canada.

Nelson Rodriguez Owner of Edo Japan, Potato Corner, OPA Greek and Cha Time

This move is one of Canada’s measures to address current labour needs. According to Statistics Canada, there were 915,500 unfilled positions

in the fourth quarter of 2021. The top three industries facing labour challenges are construction, manufacturing, and accommodation and food services.

All international students are reminded to continue to maintain full-time studies during each academic session to qualify for the postgraduation work permit or PGWP.

I would like to emphasize that when international students are ready to apply for permanent residence any work experience gained while studying in Canada doesn’t count towards the minimum requirements under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and Alberta Opportunity Stream of the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program or AAIP.

Picture perfect.

Published by Angeles

Company

246 Lindsay Crescent, Edmonton, Alberta T6R 2T2

Jose L. Angeles Publisher / Chief Operating Officer Sales and Advertising

780-916-7677, Landline: 780-988-8889

Fax: 780-988-2221

Lito Mendoza Velasco

Editor-in-Chief / Associate Publisher 780-655-5126 editor@albertafilipinojournal.com

Melanie Rose Atizado Angeles Administrator / Office Manager Sales and Advertising, 780-993-5503 albertafilipinojournal79@gmail.com

Moses Billacura

Editor / Photographer / Videographer

Lianne Angeles

Associate Editor

Mark Angeles, Mike Angeles Distribution Managers - Edmonton

Andy Chua Marketing Manager - Edmonton +1 (780) 965-3549, fcchua@hotmail.com

Maria Visconde Advertising, Sales and Marketing Manager - Calgary 403-891-9328 or 403-608-8817

Stephen Burry

Manager - Calgary 1 (587) 938-3100, Freedommigrate@gmail.com

Rolan Latorre Marketing Manager

Melanie C. Gomez

and Graphic Designer

Columnists: Marjorie Carmona-Newman, Tito S. Venida, Ida Beltran-Lucila, Kristian Cereno, Marco Luciano, Mervin Mendoza

EDITOR’S CORNER

Lito Mendoza

Animal Prudence: Avoidance of Pain Man,

according to Aristotle, is a rational animal. Being rational is to do good and avoid evil. To do good simply means “to do unto others what you want others do unto you,” Jesus said. Of course, you do not want to be harmed and for that reason, hurting others must not be your business and should be avoided because it is, by nature, an evil deed. This maxim, if devotedly exercised by all men; would certainly turn this world into a place where harmony and peace reign. Once again, it is so simple to preserve goodness. Just be prudent.

However, if you feel some people are attempting to harm you; then, try to immediately get rid of them. Never give them a chance to commit evil by physically or verbally hurting you. Avoid going to the occasions or places where they are even up to the extent they suspected you are afraid of them. There’s nothing wrong about it. You have to understand that pursuing your plans if there’s a certain risk ahead of you is not heroism, but rather, stupidity.

If, and only if, such animal prudence be faithfully observed; then, there will never be a society in turmoil and hence, the absence of war will conspicuously become the presence of peace and harmony among organizations, associations, and nations.

Let no one feel what you yourself do not like to feel and that definitely is a physical or emotional pain. Life is a gift to be appreciated and enjoyed; not a problem to be solved. Never make life so complicated by entertaining “Maritess” or gossips. For the reason that nobody exactly knows who you are than yourself. Fill your mind with all the good words. For instance: “Little thing makes you mad, that means you are a small man.”

May Tunay Bang Away At Pinag-Aawayan?

RUSSIA VS UKRAINE: Magkapit-bahay. Ang Russian ay may mga kapamilya sa Ukraine at ganun din naman ang Ukraine sa Russia.

Para sa akin, hindi malalim ang sugat kaya hindi humihilom. Kundi, itinago ng napakatagal ang sugat kaya hindi nagamot. Itinago ang sakit na dulot ng di maghilom na sugat. Bakit? Dahil sa pride o kataasan, ikinakajiya natin an gating kahinaan. At dahil diyan, ang damdaming itinago sa dibdib ay parang bulkan na sumabog kahalintulad ng taong biglang naghuramentado ang naglihim ng sakit. Biglang nanapak! Ano ang dulot? Bakbakang lumalagapak!

Matatapos ba ang bakbakan dahil nagbarilan at nagbombahan? Ang sagot ko: HINDI! ISANG MALAKING HINDI! Bakit? Walang gyera na natapos sa barilan at pasabogan ng bomba! Lahat ng iyan ay natatapos sa pag-uusap! Oo mga KAPATID at KABABAYAN, ISANG MAHINAHONG PAG-UUSAP para sa KAPAYAPAAN!

Kaya mo? Kung hindi! Eh anong kaya mo? Hayaan na lamang na magpatuloy ang gulo at ipagsawalangbahala ang mga munting hidwaan na sa paglipas ng panahon ay magiging pandaigdigang perwesyo.

Mahalaga ang may kamalayan sa kasaysayan: Sino ang sumulat?

Ang kasaysayan ng Pilipinas, bilang halimbawa, ay sinulat ng mga kinikilalang Historians na sina Gregorio Zaide, Teodoro Agoncillo, at Ka Crispin Beltran.

Kung masusi at mausisa nating babasahin ang kanilang mga panulat, masasabi mong magulo ang kasaysayan.

Tumpak! Bakit? Dahil hindi sila magkakapareho ng inspirasyon sa pagsusulat. Maaaring ang isa ay makaamerika, ang isa ay maka-espanyol, at ang isa ay maka-bayan o maka-masa.

Kung iyan ang pagtutuunan natin ng pansin, aba’y mauubos ang oras natin sa paglingon sa halip na sa pagtugis sa hinaharap. Kaya naman, para sa akin, mas mainam na punuin natin ng mga gawain ang ating kalendaryo (Calendar of productive activities). Maging pang-frat man o pansariling buhay.

Capital Letter E!

Excel in your CHOSEN field of INTEREST and ENDEAVOUR.

Sa puntong iyan, hayaan nating gumalaw ang ating mga kapatid sa nais nilang galawan. Huwag tuligsain kapag hindi tumugma sa iyong pananaw. Bakit? Sa ayaw natin at gusto, magkakaiba talaga tayo! Pagbabawalan o kukutyain mo ba ang kapatid mo kung traysikel drayber o magsasaka siya, samantalang ikaw ay isang abogado o doktor? Pagkaganyan ka, nasaan na ang LIVE AND LET LIVE? Nasaan na ang CHOSEN FIELD OF INTEREST?

Ang masama, eh kung ayaw mo na ngang sumama sa isang tao o grupo o gumawa ng ayaw mong gawin eh PINILIT ka pa. Sa puntong yan, magalit ka, dahil, hinaharangan niya ang kalayaan at karapatan mong pumili.

Wika nga, kung ayaw mo, wag mo! Hahaha

Alberta Newcomer Recognition Awards 2022 Award recipients - Filipino Awardees

The Alberta Newcomer Recognition Awards launched in June to celebrate the invaluable contributions immigrants make to the province’s neighbourhoods, economies, professions and communities. Recipients include youth, women, seniors, entrepreneurs, academics, professionals and community builders who have made a difference in their schools, workplaces, neighbourhoods and volunteer organizations. https://www.alberta.ca/2022-newcomerrecognition-award-recipients.aspx

Small Community Enhancement Award

Marjorie Villanis

Marjorie came to Pincher Creek as a temporary foreign worker to work in the hospitality industry. She is one of the first Filipinos to come to Pincher Creek and is known as the pioneer of the Filipino newcomers in the community. Marjorie is a hotel operations manager who has used her role

to advocate for an environment of inclusion and diversity in Pincher Creek. She has encouraged residents to welcome new Albertans to the community. Through these efforts, she has contributed to workforce recruitment and retention in Pincher Creek.

Student Inspiration Award

Noah Tumalad Elle

Noah has demonstrated a strong balance between his academic life and community involvement. As a junior high student, he has maintained academic excellence while also being involved in the school’s jazz band and various sports activities. As a member of the community, he has volunteered his time and effort in worthwhile pursuits such as regularly preparing sandwiches for the needy. He has also offered his services at the pancake breakfast hosted by the Knights of Columbus, visited the seniors’ home, and initiated a book drive for the

Reading Hub in Albay, Philippines. To support the Kidney Foundation’s yearly fun run, he has run the 10 km race twice before turning 10 years old. He is an active member of the Royal Canadian Air Cadets.

Senior Spirit Award

Lucenia Ortiz

Lucenia is a co-chair of the Multicultural Health Brokers Co-op and is a co-founder of the Edmonton Multicultural Coalition, where she has contributed to building community capacity of and civic engagement with ethno-cultural communities. Her work includes skill building workshops and supporting local intercultural initiatives. Through her advocacy and support of ethno-cultural communities, she has brought people’s stories, knowledge and lived experiences to light.

40th Filipino Senior Citizens Association celebration

The FSCA turned 40 years old this year.

Members and their guests celebrated the occasion with the coronation of the Mrs.FSCA and dance presentations.

FSCA president Lucy Manuntag welcomed the guests that included Mayor Amarjeet Sohi, MP Kelly McCauley, MLA Sarah Hoffman and Philippine Consul-General Zaldy Patron. (Photos by Moses Billacura/AFJ

Alberta grants

$205,000 fund to Nasipitnons in Edmonton for Welcome to Alberta Mentorship Project

Alberta’s government is funding projects that help newcomers access mentorship opportunities to build their careers and further diversify the economy.

A $2.1-million investment under the Alberta Immigrant Mentorship Innovation Grant will help eight organizations deliver career mentorship programs that help newcomers find meaningful employment based on their work experience, education and skills.

“As an immigrant to Canada, I recognize the important role that mentorship can play in helping newcomers thrive when establishing their careers in a new country. These projects will help newcomers match with professional mentors and build connections to increase their employability while strengthening Alberta’s workforce with the skills and talent to support businesses across the province.”

Kaycee Madu, Minister of Labour and Immigration

These projects will deliver mentorship programs throughout Alberta, including in Edmonton, Calgary, Red Deer, Athabasca, Grande Prairie, Peace River, Lethbridge and Medicine Hat.

One project will be provincewide and focus on mentorship opportunities for international medical graduates.

“These mentorship projects will help break down barriers that newcomers often face when first trying to build their careers in Alberta by helping them understand how to apply their professional skills and experience in a Canadian context. As we move forward in our economic recovery, we will continue to invest in Alberta’s newcomers so they can put their skills and talent to work in jobs that support local communities across the province.”

Muhammad Yaseen, Associate Minister of Immigration and Multiculturalism

The Immigrant Mentorship Innovation Grant is part of Alberta’s Recovery Plan to remove barriers so newcomers can bring their entrepreneurial drive and skills to Alberta to start new businesses and help employers address labour shortages.

Projects terms will range for up to three years until March 2025 to ensure organizations can provide long-term mentorship opportunities to newcomers.

Projects

Alberta International Medical Graduate Association (AIMGA) –International Medical Graduate Mentorship Program

One-on-one mentorship opportunities for international medical graduates to AIMGA’s services, leveraging the experience of successful international medical graduates.

Grant amount: $298,980

Windmill Microlending: Arrive and Thrive Alberta An innovative mentorship program to improve the economic and labour market integration of Alberta newcomers.

Grant amount: $256,500

Calgary Catholic Immigration Society – Mentorship for Integration in Rural Communities

A career mentorship program for skilled newcomers in Brooks and Claresholm.

Grant amount: $264,214

Saamis Immigration Services Association – Medicine Hat and Area Mentoring Partnership

A career mentorship program for skilled newcomers in Medicine Hat. Grant amount: $237,497

Grande Prairie Council for Lifelong Learning – GP Career Mentorship for Newcomers

A career mentorship program for skilled newcomers in Grande Prairie. Grant amount: $126,862

Igbo Cultural Association of Edmonton – ICAE Mentorship Project

Providing mentorship opportunities to skilled and newly landed Igbo immigrants by linking them to mentors in their field.

Grant amount: $250,000

Nasipitnons in Edmonton – Welcome to Alberta Mentorship Project Helping newcomers in Alberta through mentorship in finding a job related to their field or chosen occupation.

Grant amount: $205,000

Edmonton Region Immigrant Employment Council – Community Career Mentorship Programs

Creating a rapid start model to grow mentorship opportunities in rural and small urban Alberta centres and build a rural mentoring community of practice.

Grant amount: $299,684

THE PEACE OF GOD: THE PROMISED PEACE

FROM A VANTAGE POINT

imagined. The expression is one that denotes that the peace imparted is of the highest possible kind.

The apostle Paul frequently used terms which had somewhat of a hyperbolical cast (Ephesians 3:19; John 21:25), and the language here is that which one would use who designed to speak of that which was of the highest order.

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 Philippine-produced fraternities.

His immensurable love for the human race has brought him to the conviction of translating his mission from fraternity into Divinity--from a mere brotherhood into sainthood. Tito authored a book entitled Quocunque Jeceris Stabit, which means, wherever you throw, it will stand.

OUR TEXT

“And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

Philippians 4:7 KJV

And the peace of God: The Bible describes three great aspects of peace that relate to God.

1. Peace from God: The apostle Paul continually used this as an introduction to his letters; it reminds us that our peace comes to us as a gift from God.

2. Peace with God: This describes a fellowship that we enter into with God through the finished work of our Lord Jesus Christ.

3. The peace of God: This is the peace spoken of in our text. It is beyond “all mind”; that is, beyond our power of thinking.

What is the peace of God?

The peace which God gives is that which is felt when we have no anxious care about the supply of our needs, and when we go confidently and commit everything into the hands of God. "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee" (Isaiah 26:3; John 14:27).

The Peace of God is the Promised Peace to those who are faithful to the Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:27).

Which passeth all understanding: It isn’t that it is senseless and therefore impossible to understand, but that it is beyond our ability to understand and to explain –therefore it must be experienced. This peace doesn’t just surpass the understanding of the worldly man; it surpasses all understanding. Even the godly man cannot comprehend this peace.

That is, which surpasses all that people had conceived or

The Triskelion, committing his way to God, and feeling that he will order all things aright, has a peace which is nowhere else known. Nothing else will furnish it but a pure and undefiled religion. No confidence that a Triskelion can have in his own powers; no reliance which he can repose on his own plans or on the promises or fidelity of his fellowmen, and no calculations which he can make on the course of events, can impart such peace to the soul as faith in God.

Shall keep your hearts and minds:

The word rendered here “shall keep" is a military term, and means that the mind would be guarded as a camp or castle is. It would be preserved from the intrusion of anxious fears and thoughts. This is something that the peace of God does for us; it is a peace that is on watch over our hearts and minds.

That is, shall keep us from anxiety and agitation. The idea is, that by thus making our requests known to God, and going to Him in view of all our trials and needs, the

mind would be preserved from distressing anxiety.

The way to find peace, and to have the heart kept from trouble, is thus to go and spread out our all before the Lord; (Isaiah 26:3-4, Isaiah 26:20; Isaiah 37:1-7).

When people seem to “lose” their heart or mind, it often is connected to an absence of the peace of God in their life. The peace of God then does not act as a guard for their hearts and minds.

Through Christ Jesus –By His agency, or intervention.

It is only in Christ Jesus that the mind can be preserved in peace. It is not by mere confidence in God, or by mere prayer, but it is by confidence in God as He is revealed through the Redeemer, and by faith in Him. The apostle Paul never lost sight of the Truth that all the security and happiness of a believer were to be traced to the Savior.

TO GOD BE THE GLORY

ERRATUM: From Tito S. Venida

Bro. Lito there’s a major error in my article for September. The title did not match the text. The title should have been Killing Satan because that’s what the text conveyed.

Certification & Recognition of Filipino Nurses in Alberta is a Big Step

JUST LISTEN

OnOctober 6, 2022, the Philippines and the Province of Alberta, Canada signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will institutionalize best practices and strengthens cooperation to enhance the welfare of Filipino Nurses working in Alberta. This is a good starting point for both governments to work together to start recognizing the credentials of Filipino Nurses.

As I have said to the Former Premier, the Government is losing so much money by not allowing immigrants to practice their professions in Alberta. With the World Wide Web, it is now so easy to create bridging programs and reviewers for people who wish to immigrate to Canada and practice their profession.

it can be a good precedent for other Professions to follow like Medical Doctors, Engineers, Journalists and more.

Nicky Gocuan has been a Columnist/ Photojournalist for over 15 years. He finished his Degree in Communication Arts at De La Salle University in 1990. After obtaining his University degree, Gocuan joined the Print Media and has contributed for The Philippine Star, Pilipino Star and later moved to Bagong Pinoy, where he wrote a regular opinion column. He also went on to write a showbiz column for The Tribune and Remate.

Gocuan has experience in covering the Police beat, Political beat, and Entertainment beat before landing in the Sports beat. He later wrote a regular sports column for Remate Tonight. During this time, he was elected President of the Philippine Basketball Association Press Photographers Club (PBAPPC) for Two Terms and helped uplift the status of the group to become a part of the 5 Man Mythical Committee in the PBA. He is currently the President of The Philippine Media Association of Alberta (PMAA) and Host of a weekly radio program ‘The Fourth Estate” on Tala Luvz Radio in Calgary.

The Philippines has long been a source of well-educated and reliable nurses, and their contribution to the Pandemic has been greatly appreciated by many countries and provinces including Alberta.

The MOU will help with speeding up the Certification, Recognition and Matching of Skills and Qualification of Filipino Nurses and a provision to support nurses who are not yet registered to practice in Alberta.

I have long wanted to see Foreign Credentials being recognized in Alberta and the rest of the Provinces in Canada, but the process is not easy. There is so much bureaucracy. I must commend Former Philippine Ambassador to Canada Rodolfo D. Robles and Consul General Zaldy Patron for accepting my challenge to get the process rolling. Obviously, it cannot be done without the help of Former Alberta Premier Jason Kenney, and Department of Migrant Workers Undersecretary Patricia Yvonne “PY” Caunan who lauded the signing as a strong symbol of bilateral cooperation between the Philippines and Alberta.

Immigrants are already given a score when they apply to immigrate to Canada, so why not add an extra step to allow them to review or study the Canadian way from their Country of Origin and Challenge the Exams online prior to their entry to Canada? This way, when they pass, they can practice their profession in the destination province.

It is different if they do it when they are already here because they do not have the Family support that they do back home. For example, if the immigrants have children, then they must worry about a lot of things, such as adjusting to climate, food, clothing and shelter, on top of having to earn a living and studying at the same time. If they are able to undertake this process in their home country, they have Family support and can therefore concentrate on their review. Grandparents can help with the kids, and they do not have to adjust to weather, food and other concerns.

The MOU also opened partnerships including the potential to establish an Alberta Accredited Nursing Programs in the Philippines. You might think that it is just for the nurses for now, and yes, that is correct. But,

AFJ: AN INTERVIEW WITH MINISTER RANDY BOISSONNAULT

From the Office of the Minister to Palabok House Restaurant with Publisher Jose Angeles, Columnist Nicky Gocuan and Editor Lito Velasco. Excerpts from a telephone interview with Liberal MP Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance, Thursday, September 22, 2022.

After exchanging pleasantries with us, Minister Randy Boissonnault expressed his fondness for the Filipino Community for its contribution to the cultural mosaic of Canada. HaloHalo and adobo are his favourite Filipino delicacies and he conveyed his admiration for the work habits of our "kababayan".

With Nicky Gocuan, AFJ Columnist, and Lito Velasco, Editorin-Chief of the AFJ, we discussed

various topics with Minister Randy in his capacity as Tourism Minister and Associate Minister of Finance, ranging from rebuilding the pipeline, child care benefit indexing for inflation, building hockey rinks to dealing with immigration issues for a better and faster process. In 2019, our tourism industry was thriving with 22 million visitors. The Covid-19 pandemic disrupted that industry, and now, post-pandemic, he would like to support and build tourism to Canada again. Filipinos in this modern world are mobile and have all the means to travel.

Nicky: “What is the Government doing to promote Local Tourism? Currently, Canadians prefer to travel outside of Canada than travel within Canada because of cost.”

Minister Randy: “I believe we need to look at reducing the taxes of travel so Canadians can travel within the Country rather than going to another Country.”

Lito: “What specific measure are you thinking to enhance the Country or Province’s economic situation via sustainable tourism? How sustainable is sustainable?

Minister Randy: “We have 24 hours a day and that should be maximized in promoting the beauty of our province. Let this be known in order to be desired by the outsiders. Let them feel the complete tourism experience, including concern for economic, social, and environmental issues as well as attention to improving tourists’ expressions of our province or country and addressing the needs

It is no secret that Alberta needs more Nurses and Medical Doctors. So, there is a lot to celebrate about this development as we continue to push for the cooperation of the Philippine Government and Provincial Governments of Canada in order for Foreign Credentials to be recognized.

Canada is a Country that welcomes many immigrants, so it still blows my mind to see why they make it hard for immigrants to work in their desired field. So, what is the use of asking about their work experience or Profession if it will not be recognized in Canada?

And don’t get me wrong, what we are fighting for is not just for Filipino immigrants. Every immigrant should have the equal opportunity to be able to practice their Profession provided they have reviewed and challenged the Provincial exams given to them, preferably from the Country of Origin so that when they arrive, they can be worthy Immigrants helping and contributing to Canadian society.

***

So everyone is talking about the $54 Million price tag of the Arrive Can App. Why did this app cost so much? In a report published by the National Post, according to App experts who were able to clone the app in just two days, tech experts have a rough estimate that it could have been delivered for less than 250k.

So Canadian taxpayers ask, why the $54 Million price tag? Why the need to Outsource to 23 Separate companies? According to the National Post report, eight Companies raked in commissions of more than $1 Million and The Largest single beneficiary was GC Strategies, which has collected $9 Million for work related to Arrive Can.

The Trudeau Government earmarked $25 Million in the last Federal Budget for maintaining the app. The Globe & Mail recently uncovered based on budget documents that the true cost of the app is closer to $54 Million. I wonder if there is anyone else who would spend this much money on an app. It would be interesting to see how much other countries spent on their apps just to compare notes.

***

If you think $54 million is a lot, think again. According to Conservative MP Dr. Leslyn Lewis, the Trudeau Government finally admitted that they have a $105.3 Million contract with World Economic Forum for the Canada Known Traveller Digital ID. I am just wondering what this is for. Why is it so important and why did it cost so much of the taxpayer’s money?

These are questions you can start asking your MP. And if you did not know, Canada has a debt of over $1.1 Trillion. Ask yourself now: Who is going to pay for all the spending? You know the answer. Come election time, Vote Wisely.

of host communities.”

We encouraged our Minister to make the process of obtaining tourist visas easier for Filipinos who

want to see Canada and visit their relatives and friends. We ended the interview hoping to meet in the near future to discuss further issues.

Nasipitnons in Edmonton Association celebrates Fiesta in honor of St. Michael the Archangel

International/Global Business Law

goods over great distances goes back a very long time. Anthropologists have already established that there was long-distance trading in Europe during the Stone Age. Sea-borne trading was commonplace in many regions of the world, in times predating Greek civilization. Such trade, of course, was not by definition "global" but had the same characteristics. In the 16th century all of the continents came to be routinely linked by ocean-based communications.

Trading activity in the modern sense rapidly followed at the beginning of the 17th century; it might be more accurate to say that it "returned" again because trading of such character had taken place in Roman times as well.

common and participants have made all sorts of efforts to counter such interference or to profit from it.(USLegal.com)

Here are some legal-basis related Business Deals with International business in the Philippines: Legal Basis

• Republic Act No. 5186 (September 16, 1967), otherwise known as the Investments Incentives Act, created the Board of Investments (BOI), delineating the areas where investments are encouraged as well

as the terms within which these investments will be allowed.

• Republic Act No. 5455 (September 30, 1968), the Foreign Business Regulation Act, authorized the BOI to implement the law’s provisions on foreign investments.

• Batas Pambansa Blg. 44 (November 1979), the Investment Promotion Act for Less-Developed Areas, accelerated the establishment of industrial and agricultural projects in less-developed areas by granting additional incentives aside from existing ones.

• Executive Order No. 226 (July 16, 1987), the Omnibus Investments Code, consolidated all existing laws and decrees issued over the years (except for BP Blg. 44) into a single Code, refining and harmonizing the various incentives and effectively streamlining registration and incentives availment procedures

Understanding International/ Global Business Law could be advantageous for economic enhancement. The Government should be globally competitive in terms of business to have stronger fiscal growth.

by

learning process is conversational because of the rise of different platforms and the modernization of technology.

Today’s

Columbia Law School in New York invited me to take one free online class on Global Business Law. This opportunity to learn aroused my interest to enhance my knowledge about this matter.

International business law is intertwined with Global business law.

Global business law refers to international trade whereas a global business is a company doing business across the world. The exchange of

Globalization is a long-standing program advocated by economically advanced nations to free up international trade across the globe through treaties. It has also come to mean the relocation of production or service activities to places that have much lower labor costs. Global business in the past—or currently—does not require what advocates of globalization seek, namely a so-called level playing field. International trade has always had a mixed character in which national organizations and private enterprises have both participated, in which monopolies have been imposed, frequently defended by armed forces, where all manner of restraints and tariffs have been

New champions emerge at Bungabong Cup

By Moses Billacura

WESTLOCK --- Defending champions

Red Deer Babaeros and FightersDollhouse Esthetics failed to defend their titles this year, losing to better opponents in the 3rd Bungabong Cup, October 8-9, at the Rotary Spirit Centre, here.

The Babaeros bowed down to the Wilma Payne Mortgage-backed Peace River, 62-67 in the final day of the men’s basketball while Fighters-Dollhouse Esthetics lost to Kidlat-Driving With Desire, 1-3 in co-ed volleyball.

Kurt Saluna was voted MVP in basketball while Tomoki Hyodo bagged the MVP honors in volleyball.

The Ilonggo Brothers-Oli Lopez/ Desjardins placed third in basketball while St. Albert-Filipino Drives settled for 2nd runner-up in volleyball.

Named to the Mythical Five were Jam Torres, JL Fedilo, Seth Parker, Paul Redondo and JV Orera. Steven Dinel of Fox Creek topped the three-point contest.

Selected to the Mythical Six were Crishia Dela Paz, Cameron Guezen, Jon Mendoza, Tsz Ho Lam, Daven Ho and Angel Lizano. Anthony Lagarta won the pepper challenge.

“Thanks to every single one of you who helped us,” said organizer Jerome Bungabong.

A total of 18 teams took part in the two-day event supported by Filipino Drives, Wilma Payne Mortgages, Kyle Houston Desjardins Insurance, Dollhouse Esthetics, Chowkeni, Driving With Desire, East West College and Jekasa Sportswear.(with reports from J.Bungabong)

UMAC Cargo off to good start, SkinLueur loses in PBAC basketball

By Moses Billacura

UMAC trounced Academy of Health Care Service, 77-67 with Gary Galves leading the charge with 17 points as Jessie Aguilon added 12 to emerge double-digit scorers for the Allan Saburao-coached cargo company in Edmonton managed by Homer Lising.

In the other 40 years old and above division game, Tropang D beat SkinLueur Aesthetics and Laser Centre, 71-57.

The scores:

(First Game)

UMAC (77) - Galves 17, Aguilon 12, Carpio 8, de Leon 6, Hamorabon 6, Torres 6, Juliana 6, Baang 4, Taiza 2, Paglinawan 2.

AHCS (67) - Aguro 23, Nicolasora 11, Tingson 10, Ilastron 9, Calingaon 8, Sarra 3, Quinto 2.

(Second Game)

Tropang D (71) - Koh 14, Tao 13, Velasco 12, Miranda 11, Garcia 6, Costales 5, Bakksantos 4, Pascua 4.

SkinLueur (57) - Pino 25, Torres 6, Randy 6, Cruz 6, Macam 5, Cariato 4, Balais 3.

Six teams in Leduc Cagefest on Oct. 30

Six squads are entered in the 2022 Leduc Pilipino Ballers Association Tournament starting on October 30, 1:30 p.m., at the West Haven Public School in Leduc.

The teams are South Fork Warriors, Deer Valley Wolves, West Haven Massage Trace, Bridgeport 31 Shoe Avenue, Blackstone Pirates and JF Kitchenette.

Tournament commissioner Sherwin Robledo said the teams have also started some pre-season games just to warm things up before the regular tournament formally starts.

He said that they have been organizing tournaments for years now to promote camaraderie among members of the Filipino community in Leduc and his organization has also affiliated with the Edmonton United Basketball Association (EUBA) to strengthen its organization. (Moses Billacura)

Steven Dinel of Fox Creek is the 3rd Bungabong Cup three-point shooting contest champion, October 8, at the Rotary Spirit Centre in Westlock. (Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

Crishia Dela Paz of FightersDollhouse Esthetics is all eyes on the ball at the 3rd Bungabong Cup, October 8, at the Rotary Spirit Centre in Westlock.(Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

Shecaniah Alejo of Westlock jump serves at the 3rd Bungabong Cup, October 8, at the Rotary Spirit Centre in Westlock.(Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

The Fox Creek Team headed by coach RS Silvestre and assistant coach Norman Bunanig also took part in the two-day 3rd Bungabong Cup, October 8-9, at the Rotary Spirit Centre in Westlock.(Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

Wilma, Oli, Jo Ann, Eunice, Ronadel and Desiree at 3rd Bungabong Cup, October 8-9, at the Rotary Spirit Centre in Westlock.(Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

UMAC Cargo Express got off to a good start in the ongoing 2022 PBAC Basketball Tournament at Legacy Athletics in Edmonton.

Benjie Baang (No.28) and Jessie Aguilon (No.27) of UMAC Cargo Express closely guard Toto Calinga-on (No.17) of Academy of Health Care Services in this bit of action in the ongoing 2022 PBAC Basketball Tournament at the Legacy Athletics in Edmonton.(Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

Tournament commissioner Sherwin Robledo.(FB photo)

Watching the NBA game, simply irresistible to Pinoy fans

By Moses Billacura

Niel Cruz drove from Slave Lake with his friends to watch the NBA game in Edmonton and particularly, FilipinoAmericans Jordan Clarkson of Utah and Ron Harper Jr. of Toronto.

He may have a full schedule of work as a mechanic these days but after learning that an NBA game would be played in Edmonton, for him, that was irresistible.

So he tagged along with his friends Jerome and Jeruel Cantada and his Kuya JM.

As an amateur player and NBA fan, Neil said that each time he had the chance to go to Los Angeles, watching an NBA game has always been part of the itinerary.

"I always watch NBA games in LA, so I said for the experience, manood din ako sa Edmonton," Niel said.

Niel used to actively play the sport in Filipino leagues but work and raising a young family have kept him very busy. "Miss ko nga maglaro kaso busy eh," he said.

Joan Espiritu of Edmonton said her husband Jon has been watching the NBA games on TV for the past 20 years, even when he was still in the Philippines.

Since immigrating to Canada, she said Jon has been following the Raptors.

Not only Jon but their kids, Jonah and Julianne, who play basketball like their dad, have been rooting for Toronto in the NBA.

When news circulated that FilAms Clarkson and Harper Jr. were seeing action in Edmonton on October 2, the family decided to quickly buy tickets to watch the games.

Jon, in particular, Joan said has watched the progress of Jordan Clarkson closely because he has played for the Philippine National basketball team, Gilas and he has greatly admired the Fil-American more for contributing to the Philippine team.

Yanix Lacea of Calgary said he did not mind driving three hours just to watch.

“I am a fan of Clarkson,” said Yanix.

And if there will be more NBA games in Edmonton, these fans would love to watch again.

For basketball-crazy Filipinos, watching an NBA game is just simply irresistible.

Elks extend Gibbon

Jesse Gibbon has signed a two-year contract extension with the Edmonton Elks.

The deal announced Tuesday morning keeps the offensive lineman in Edmonton through the 2024 season.

In his third CFL season, Gibbon was acquired by the Double E in a trade with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Sept. 2, and has suited up in five games for the Elks. The Waterloo product appeared in 42 games with the Ti-Cats after being selected second

overall in the 2019 CFL draft.

In addition, the Elks released Dennis Bardwell (OL). Bardwell

Niel and friends. (Contributed photo)

The Espiritu family.(Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

Yanix with Carlos Boozer.(Contributed photo)

Filipino-American Jordan Clarkson of the Utah Jazz passes the ball to a teammate in their game against the Toronto Raptors, October 2, at Rogers Place in Edmonton as part of the NBA Pre-Season.(Photo by Nicky Gocuan)

Matt Kallio, the first Canadian to be a referee in the NBA, speaks to a reporter and PMAA writers Nicky Gocuan and Moses Billacura, October 2, before the NBA Pre-Season game between the Utah Jazz and Toronto Raptors at Rogers Place in Edmonton.(Photo by Alberto Garcia/ Philippine Media Association of Alberta)

Apps for Services by the City

Residents like us rely on our city government for various needs, particularly those that are under the municipalities’ responsibility. It can be a challenge to access information in a way that works for us, especially since many of us might be too busy to send a letter, wait during a phone call, or go downtown to get the information we need. Luckily, there are tools that the city launched to make things a bit more convenient.

This short list of resources can help with getting familiar with which ones they are. Apps are available for both Apple and Android devices, which is handy.

1. Edmonton 311 App: Reporting various complaints to the city is made easier with this app. Other options still are always available such as calling or sending an email. However, the app has a few conveniences, such as adding a photo with the complaint, and the GPS location feature will pinpoint the location as you report on the spot. Concerns such as illegal parking complaints, potholes, graffiti,

litter (including used needles), weeds and icy roads and sidewalks can be reported.

2. Edmonton Police Mobile App: This is a handy app to report certain types of crimes, receive alerts from the Edmonton Police Service, and even provide information by viewing the Missing Persons list, Assist to Identify list and more. As always, for emergencies, calling 911 is recommended.

3. Edmonton Public Library App: This mobile library and e-book access is a really useful tool. Through the app you can check availability of items you want to borrow, browse materials and review them, renew items you borrow, get directions to library branches, and borrow e-books that you can read right on your phone.

4. Edmonton Recreation Centre App: The city operates a number of recreation centres throughout the city that offer facilities from pools, gym equipment and classes. The app provides information about the recreation centre locations, schedule for classes and facilities.

5. Edmonton On-Demand Transit App: While there are regular buses

Transit. You go to a designated bus stop, this mini-bus will arrive and then it will take you to another neighbourhood, major transit station, or major business area, or seniors home. You need to download the On-Demand Transit app to book these trips.

6. MyEPark Parking App: When driving and parking on a street with a meter or parkades owned by the city, usually in downtown this app is an alternate way to pay for parking. The app includes a wayfinding map to locate your car and open spots, an auto-notification when your parking session is ending, and having your own EPark account that makes payment more convenient.

7. WasteWise App: Garbage and waste management are handled by the city, and the more residents do their part in sorting garbage properly, the easier it is for the city to process this waste. The WasteWise App can help determine whether certain items go to garbage, recycling, or Eco Station and inform you of your garbage collection date.

One thing to note is that these apps are specifically designed by and for the City of Edmonton. There are certainly equivalent apps that might be more suitable to your style or have more universal information, such

as Google Maps for broader travel information or other apps about composting and waste management. That being said, these can be useful in living in our great city of Edmonton, to make sure that we comply with the bylaws and participate actively as residents.

If you happen to live or need access to municipal services outside of Edmonton, it is likely that there are equivalent apps available. The best way to find out is by going to the website of your municipality, see the services that they offer, and check on the section talking about ways to contact to see if there is an app available.

A Blessed Home: A dwelling place where love endures forever

Agasino

their

friends

home.

Lourdes

$70M announced to address the housing crisis in Edmonton

Collaborative leadership continues to forge the way forward.

On October 1, after nearly a year of constant advocacy, I was incredibly pleased to join the Premier while he announced the substantial housing and health funding that Edmontonians need.

Our collaborative relationship with the provincial government is making life better for Edmontonians struggling with houselessness, substance use disorder, mental health crises, poverty and intergenerational trauma.

The announcement was a pivotal moment for our city.

In our last meeting in Calgary, Premier Kenney jokingly described me as being “persistently annoying” with my endless advocacy for social equity initiatives in Edmonton, and with this announcement, it all paid off.

The Government of Alberta has committed $70 million towards ensuring that Edmonton’s unhoused and struggling folks have improved access to services that support their wellbeing.

The significant investments announced will support a number

of important initiatives and also help close the funding gap between Edmonton and Calgary to support Edmonton’s houseless folks.

Some highlights of this announcement include:

• Funding for an additional 450 shelter spaces.

• Funding to keep provincially funded shelters open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with wraparound and recovery services available

on-site.

• An additional $12M for healthrelated services in supportive housing units.

• Building and running a 75-bed treatment and recovery facility for people facing addictions.

• Piloting a service hub model that provides wraparound services at local shelters, harm reduction, and opportunities to collaborate with police and healthcare providers.

• An enhanced discharging plan

before people are released from correctional facilities.

These investments show that our approach is working. This is a breakthrough that we have been waiting for, and I am eager to keep the momentum going.

I want to thank the many organizations who advocated to the province on our behalf from community league leaders, to the business community, to Chinatown stakeholders, to the many other invested Edmontonians who took time out of their busy schedules to write a letter or make a call. Your advocacy made this happen, and this is a win for all of us.

I also must thank Premier Jason

Kenney, Minister Luan and Minister Ellis and Minister Madu for their openness, for meeting with me so many times, and for listening to our concerns. Other thank yous are in order for our City Manager Andre Corbould for his ongoing support, chief Dale McFee for serving on the Homelessness Task Force, and to my Council colleagues for taking a united front and vested interest into addressing the housing crisis in Edmonton.

The advocacy does not end here, and we will continue to pursue innovative ways to meet the housing needs of everyone in our city.

Together, we are building an Edmonton for all of us.

PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL IN CALGARY and NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR CULTURE AND THE ARTS

CULTURAL CENTER FOUNDATION

FILIPINO CANADIAN SARANAY ASSOCIATION

Dr.

Agreement aims to bring more nurses to Alberta

A new memorandum of understanding (MOU) will help address the province’s critical nursing shortage by making it easier for credentialed nurses from the Philippines to bring their skills to Alberta patients.

Alberta and the Philippines have signed an MOU to assist in the recruitment of both registered nurses and licensed practical nurses, a crucial part of Alberta’s plan to attract internationally educated nurses to the province. Alberta has a strong and vibrant Filipino community, and the Philippines is a key partner that will help the province address ongoing labour shortages in nursing.

“We are thrilled to take this important step toward attracting internationally trained nurses from the Philippines to work in Alberta. These professionals are dedicated and highly educated, and can make an enormous contribution to bolstering our health-care system. There is a shortage of nurses across Canada, and we must do everything possible to ensure high-quality nursing care for all Alberta patients, for years to come.”

Jason Kenney, Premier

Alberta’s plan to attract internationally educated nurses aims to address barriers faced

by many internationally trained nurses, including navigating complex regulatory requirements, assessment and licensing processes, and having access to clinical placements.

“I welcome the signing of the memorandum of understanding between the Philippines and Alberta as a testament to our commitment to strengthen our bilateral relations. I am grateful to the recognition given to the contribution of our Filipino nurses to world-class nursing care and standards.”

Susan V. Ople, secretary, Department of Migrant Workers, the Philippines

The agreement identifies Alberta as a preferred destination for Filipino nurses. It was agreed to following several months of negotiations between the governments of Alberta and the Philippines. This MOU lays the foundation for a continued cooperative relationship between Alberta and the Philippines in order to address future health-care labour needs.

GUEST SPEAKER

Premier Jason Kenney signs an agreement, which will facilitate the transition of internationally trained nurses to Alberta’s health-care system, during an Alberta government announcement at the Nursing Simulation Lab at Mount Royal University while Zaldy Patron, Philippines consul general stands beside him on Thursday, October 6, 2022. Azin Ghaffari/Postmedia

FILIPINO TEMPORARY FOREIGN WORKERS ASSEMBLY HELD IN CALGARY

Calgary, 28 September 2022 – A gathering of Filipino Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) was held on 24 September 2022 at the Kerby Centre in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, to make them aware of their rights, welfare and responsibilities as well as the various services available to them.

The event, called TFW Assembly, was a joint project of the Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Calgary,

Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO)-Vancouver, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA)-Vancouver, Calgary Catholic Immigration Service (CCIS), and Catholic Social Services (CSC) of Edmonton.

Seventy-five (75) TFWs from Calgary, Edmonton, and Banff listened to the presentations of various resource persons who discussed the following topics:

• employment standards, rights and responsibilities at work;

• government assistance for employment-related complaints;

• labor exploitation and remedies;

• human trafficking;

• open work permit for vulnerable workers;

• consular services of the PCG and services of SSS, POLO and OWWA; and

• community support for TFWs provided by the CCIS and CSS.

In his keynote message, Consul General Zaldy Patron said it was important and crucial for the Filipino TFWs not to fall victims to illegal practices, as he reminded them to become more knowledgeable about the many resources and recourses that are available to them.

Consul General Patron underscored that the Philippine Government would like to see the Filipino TFWs succeed and he expressed hope that the participants in the TFW Assembly would be part of the success stories of the Filipino migration in Alberta.

Consul General Zaldy B. Patron delivers his Keynote Message during the Filipino Temporary Foreign Workers Assembly on 24 September 2022.

Consul General Zaldy B. Patron (4th from the right - bottom row) with Philippine Consulate General, Philippine Overseas Labor Office and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration officials, members of the Calgary Catholic Immigration Service (CCIS) and the Catholic Social Services (CSC) of Edmonton, and Canadian government speakers at the Filipino TFW Assembly on 24 September 2022.

Labor Attaché Jainal Rasul delivers his welcome remarks for the participants of the Filipino TFW Assembly who came from Calgary, Edmonton and Banff.

FESTIVAL 2022

Held last

Edmonton Visual Artists with their works (L-R) Sandy Castillo Lubuguin, Artist; April ‘Lianne’ Angeles, Artist; Noel Balbin, Artist; Adrielle Aquino, Illustrator/Designer; Michael Moya, Artist/Illustrator; Lito Velasco, Media (Photo by Arielle Velasco)

Maharlika (second from right), the Production and Fashion Designer (Photo by Lito Velasco)

Michael Moya, Artist and Illustrator (mmoyaart@gmail.com) (Photo by Lito Velasco)

Sandy Castillo Lubuguin, Filipino Artist (FB and Instagram art.of.sandy) (Photo by Lito Velasco)

Noel Balbin, Artist - PEPS UNLTD (noelbalbin@gmail.com) - Photo by Lito Velasco

L-R: Ruth Dogue-Is, Saranay Rondalla’s Narrator; Ida Lucila, Emcee-Production Consultant, Jojo Lucila, Production Consultant. - Photo by Lito Velasco

The Fashion Models with the NDP Leader Rachel Notley - Photo by Lito Velasco

The Fashion Models - Photo by Lito Velasco

April ‘Lianne’ Angeles, Artist and AFJ Editor (aprilangelesart@gmail. com) - Photo by Lito velasco

Manny Arban’s Zumba Team - Photo by Lito Velasco

Saranay Rondalla and the Dancing Kids - Photo by Lito Velasco

Removal of 20-Hour work limit: Who benefits?

MIGRANTS' VOICES

but much more needs to be done for migrant student workers, particularly those who have been excluded, this change must be made permanent, the post-graduate work permit (PGWP) scheme which students enter into upon graduation must be transformed, and most importantly all migrants including migrant students must have permanent residency so they can protect themselves,” Rho added.

were many case where desperate migrant workers were made to apply for a student visa to be able to stay in Canada. They will pay consultants and the school thousands while they work in menial low wage jobs. Many of these migrants end up working 2 to 3 jobs to be able to pay. Many do not end up finishing school.

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.

OnFriday, October 7, 2022, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced a temporary removal of the 20-hour work limit on study permits. The change will start on November 15, 2022, and will be in place until the end of 2023. According to Fraser, "this will help sustain Canada’s COVID-19 pandemic growth and provide a boost to employers in sectors that are particularly facing severe labour shortages". The changes will impact thousands of current international students who are in Canada as well as those that have already applied for a study permit.

There has been a call out and lobby work among international students in the last three years. This partial success gives them the power to protect international students from exploitation, abuse, and mistreatment at work. In 2019, over 52,000 migrant students signed a petition when Jobandeep Singh Sandhu was targeted for working more than 20 hours per week off-campus. Since then, migrant student workers have organized phone calls, met with government officials, and marched on the streets calling for the removal of the 20-hour work limit.

The Toronto-based Migrant Workers Alliance for Change’s Migrant Student United has been organizing against the 20-hour work limit since 2019 when international student Jobandeep Singh Sandhu had his immigration status revoked and was eventually deported for working more than 20 hours driving trucks. Migrant Workers Alliance for Change is reiterating their call for permanent changes, rather than temporary and partial programs, including permanent resident status for all migrants in the country and those who will come in the future.

According to Sarom Rho, an organizer for Migrant Students United at the Migrant Workers Alliance for Change, “Today’s announcement isn’t about labour shortage, it’s about labour mobility and rights, and it’s a direct result of years of tireless organizing by current and former international students. Removing the limit on hours of work while studying gives migrant student workers the power to leave bad jobs, speak up against exploitation and mistreatment, and freedom and flexibility to make decisions about their work.”

“It’s a step in the right direction

While these changes are important, the context of "Covid-19 recovery and labour shortage" is also open to abuse and exploitation. These students will be the new foreign labourers earning minimum wage while obligated to pay huge amounts in tuition fees. International student tuition increased 7.25% in 2020. It will also be open to fraud as immigration consultants and recruiters will peddle the international student program to people from poorer countries with the promise of work and residency. There

There are many ways to fill the labour needs of Canada. Inclusive regularization of all undocumented migrants is one that can be done immediately. The other is to provide permanency upon arrival of a migrant worker. Students will not have to work if education is free and accessible. The European model of free post-secondary education benefits countries like Germany, Norway, France, Finland, Hungary, etc. International students tend to stay and work in those countries contributing to their skills and talents.

Our labour needs in Canada must not be filled through the exploitation of international students.

Francheska: Prairie Queen

In

the recent MaKaPinoy Fashion Show and Kultura Edmonton Filipino Festival, I met the twin personas of Francheska Dynamites

ARTOSPECTIVE - an artist’s point of view

and Francis (Kiko) Yutrago. I was fascinated by the boldness and gaiety of Francheska and the humility and contemplativeness of Kiko. This dichotomy is the subject of a documentary by director Laura O’Grady, entitled Francheska: Prairie Queen, an official selection in the recent Calgary International Film Festival, and the LGBTQ+ Toronto Film Festival 2022.

Ida Beltran-Lucila ida_b_lucila@yahoo.com

Kiko is from Dinagat Island in the Philippines, living the simple barrio life - fetching water, cooking rice on an open fire, walking to school, feeding the chickens. He went to the University of East Caloocan at age 14 and finished at the age of 19, one of the youngest to do so. Then he took a Caregiver course, worked at SM, at a call centre and as a caregiver, until he left for Edmonton in 2010.

After a few months of his arrival in Edmonton, he found himself jobless. Shortly after, he was fortunate to

work with a family who treated him as a family member and retained him, including bringing him along to Lethbridge, until he received his permanent residency. However, also in his first year in Canada, his father suffered a stroke. As the breadwinner of the family, shouldering household expenses and his siblings’ education, he worked 3-5 jobs, even to this day.

In Lethbridge, he was performing as a backup dancer to drag queens. Even as a young boy, he was fond of dancing and performing. Then in 2017, Taber held its first Gay Pride where a club owner encouraged him to try drag. He did his first drag performance with the help of friends for his hair, make-up and wardrobe styling. This was a euphoric and liberating experience for him. From then on, he assumed the stage name Francheska Dynamites, using the name which he was called when he was bullied for his effeminate waysFrancheska, turning what was once an oppressive term, to a vehicle for liberation. Shortly thereafter, Francheska went into pageantry, competing with transgenders and more often than not, would be the only drag queen in the pageant.

In the 2018 Pride Event in Lethbridge where Francheska was one of the performers, award-winning director and producer Laura O’Grady was working on a documentary on drag queens. A few months after that, Francheska received a proposal on a documentary, which would follow her life as a drag queen in rural Alberta. The documentary tracked Francheska for the past couple of years covering the many facets of her life: as a healthcare worker; a Filipino migrant who works 3-5 jobs to provide for her family in the Philippines; gender identity; drag as a form of expression; and cultural minority representation. It is an inspiring movie that unravels the many layers of the Kiko/Francheska personas. Kiko/Francheska is definitely the star with her honesty and spontaneity, and whose story is handled with sensitivity and grace by Laura. It is obvious that there is great trust and connection between director and subject.

A Lawyer practising Family Law, Immigration Law, Contract Law, Corporate Law, Real Estate Law, Wills & Estates, and Criminal Law and can be found at 20430 128A Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5S 0N4.

Back then:

2016 General Legal Counsel (JCI Philippines)

2016 Director for National Relations (JCI Manila)

2015 Area General Legal Counsel (Metro Area, JCI Philippines)

VIEWPOINT

SECURING YOUR FAMILY’S FUTURE (ESTATE PLANNING)

Bing J. Jaleco bingjaleco@yahoo.com

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

gospel for today is teaching us a good lesson from a very wicked example. There is an admiration for the dishonest steward; not for his dishonesty but for his ability to figure his way out of a mess that he had created. Folks, whom do you serve? The Mighty Lord or the mighty dolllar? Today we are reminded that

Filipinos,

in general, are very hardworking. Often, we see Filipinos have at least two jobs so they can provide for their families, be it in Canada or in the Philippines. We aim to have our own home. We aim to have our own vehicles. We aim to go on vacations. The more we provide for our families, the more we are encouraged to work.

We can do these things mainly because we are able. But working tirelessly can have consequences on one’s health. We do not know how detrimental overworking can be until we experience illnesses in our lives. A seemingly healthy 35-year old may have already contracted a terminal illness while a weak 75year old may still have a clean bill of health. In short, life is uncertain.

This is where estate planning comes in. I will discuss the legal aspect of estate planning and leave

the financial estate planning aspect to life and health insurance advisors.

The most common ones are personal directive, enduring power of attorney, and last will and testament. Personal directive and enduring power of attorney operate when you are still alive but you can no longer decide for yourself (or mentally incapacitated).

Last will and testament operates when you are already deceased.

PERSONAL DIRECTIVE AND ENDURING POWER OF ATTORNEY Personal directive is a set of instructions you leave to your authorized representative to deal with nonfinancial matters.This can cover your decision to be revived or not.

It can also cover your decision to exhaust all medical means to keep you alive or not. It can also cover how you want to be taken care of.

On the other hand, enduring power

of attorney is a set of instructions you leave to your authorized representative to deal with financial matters. With this document, you are authorizing your representative to access your finances and use it based on your instructions. Examples of these include providing finances for your children for their school or any other needs, donations to charitable organizations, or using your funds to spend for nurses or other medical professionals to provide care for you.

LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT

A last will and testament is a set of instructions you leave to your authorized representative after your passing. With the properties you are leaving behind, you want to distribute your properties to whoever you want to inherit. For example, the home that you are leaving behind. How do you want to share this with your spouse and children or even

relatives and friends? How do you want your body to be disposed of (burial or cremation)?

Please note that you need to have the personal directive, enduring power of attorney, and last will and testament while you are still alive and mentally capable. Otherwise, it will not be effective. In the absence of a valid personal directive, enduring power of attorney, and last will and testament, the legislation takes over and the final determination can only be had through court intervention. On top of this, the confusion of what your instructions are and any potential disagreements within the family may arise.

If you have any legal questions, feel free to email me at irvin.bautista@ gmail.com. Any response to questions made in the next article shall not be considered legal advice.

Beware the political fringe

OUTGOING

Premier Jason

Kenney may be a lot of things to a lot of people, but he certainly hit the nail right on the head when he warned of fringe elements in Canada’s conservative establishment.

Fringe elements are those characterized as conspiracy theorists and ultranationalists. Their numbers are still small compared to mainstream conservatives. But they are a growing force who have somehow gained a foothold in the political establishment by capitalizing on public discontent and frustrations, and they have the capability to upend the political order and influence politics to fit their agenda. Just ask Jason Kenney.

Fringe elements are always a

worrisome lot, and they have shown time and again that they are fully capable of creating chaos in the guise of “transforming the establishment” and “giving a voice to the voiceless.” Populism has proven to be a highly successful political strategy for politicians all over the world, but two nations come to mind: the United States and the Philippines. And two case studies stand out: Donald Trump and Rodrigo Duterte. Both were catapulted to the presidency of their countries, both upended the existing political order, and both are still revered by their respective political bases there.

We all know what four years of Donald Trump has done for America (and Canada for that matter), or six

years of Duterte for the Philippines. Or, closer to home, what these conservative fringe elements have done for Alberta, leading to the resignation of Kenney. Why has populism and ultranationalism become such an enticing movement that it continues to draw supporters and advocates to its fold? This, despite the fact that the movement has, and continues, to not only trample on democratic institutions but redefine the meaning of democracy itself.

Perhaps liberal democracy is partly to blame for having created cracks in society that eventually bred these fringe elements. Here in Alberta, and in much of the Prairies, for instance, Justin Trudeau and the Liberal Party are reviled and hated

for Ottawa’s seeming indifference to the issues and problems here. Or perhaps blame it on a political system that plays favorites with provinces that have bigger voter populations than others and hence can claim the pulpit—and the spoils of political favors.

But it should not be a reason for political leaders to turn a blind eye on populism and ultranationalism. Or worse, condone the words and actions of these fringe elements because they present a golden opportunity to grab political power. The conservative political establishment in Alberta must be vigilant not only for its own sake, but for the sake of peace and order in Canada. For once, I will say: listen to Jason Kenney.

riches. Strive for material blessings that are honestly acquired. 3Ps

our prosperity can sometimes lead us either to greed or to improving the lives of others. Our wealth can give us gain or can inflict pain on others. We are challenged to use our resources to help the poor. (Huwag po nating pagkakakitaan ang mga mahihirap.)

Folks, we are challenge to use money to help people, not to use people to gain more money. People are more important than dollars.

To be gifted with riches is a blessing. We all want to live in abundance and prosperity. There is nothing wrong with being well-off because wealth is a grace from God, but the gospel for today warns those rich individuals who exploit the poor in order to enrich themselves. Deceiving others to gain more money is evil.

Friends, use money to help people. Do not use people to make more money.

Money is good; but too much love for money sometimes makes man evil. Be careful of the non-economic end of money: it can buy people’s integrity, it will treat humans as commodities, money can make people selfish and greedy, money can break marriages and destroy relationships. Money

is good. However, putting our trust and confidence in money is idolatry. Friends, money cannot be a substitute for God, for God is irreplaceable. My dear friends, instead of loving people and using money, we often love money and use people. We pray for our leaders that they may lead

us to a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity.

Challenge: Teach your children how to earn money but don’t forget to teach them how to pray. Remember this: people are more important than dollars. I am inviting you to invest more in relationships than in temporal

1. People are more important than money.

2. Pray for our politicians and church leaders.

3. Prosperity will be yours if you chase your passion, not your pension. Blessings, Fr. Jhack

IRVIN BAUTISTA

Francheska feels honoured to be the subject of a documentary, but at the same time feels vulnerable and anxious with opening up her life. She recognizes that she has inadvertently been thrust into a bigger platform and will use this in pushing for representation of Filipino-Canadians and the LGBTQ+ community.

Kiko’s life trajectory has gone beyond his wildest dreams. He attributes it to his belief in the law of attraction, in being optimistic and focusing on the positive side of things. “I always acknowledge pain and struggle, but I do not let it go to my head, or rule my life. I believe in myself, and in the Creator, the God of the Universe,” Kiko elaborates. He shares moments of serendipity that never fails to give him goosebumps. Firstly, the person he took care of had the same name as his father. The house number where he lived

in Canada, was the same number as their house in the Philippines. The date September 23, marks three monumental events of his life - the date of his arrival in Edmonton, the anniversary date with his fiance, and the world premiere of the documentary Francheska: Prairie Queen. All these show him that something big is happening and someone greater than him is in-charge.

And that something big is not far-fetched. To date, Francheska: Prairie Queen has won the Audience Award in the Calgary International Film Festival (CIFF) and Toronto Film Festival. The CIFF is the largest film festival in Alberta, an Oscarqualifying festival for short films, and a Canadian Screen Award Qualifying festival. It is also one of 17 films shortlisted by The Directors Guild of Canada for the 2022 Jean-Marc Vallée Discovery Award.

Beyond the documentary, Kiko has many projects he would like to

finish and pursue: finish the building of the family’s house in the Philippines; bring siblings to Canada; get into Drag Race Canada - not necessarily to win but just to participate and represent as Ms. Philippines Canada; write books based on his experiences that drag queens can read to children - not necessarily about being a drag queen but about persistence, love of family, perseverance, self awareness, respect and acceptance of people. With the looks of it, Francis (Kiko) Yutrago, aka as Francheska Dynamites, is indeed not only a Prairie Queen, but the master of his own destiny.

Watch out for further screenings of the documentary Francheska: Prairie Queen. This is something you would not want to miss.

Photo credits: c/o Francheska Dynamites. Uncommon Originals Photography.

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

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

Although Mercury’s retrograde journey through Virgo concludes on October 2, its rocky vibes will continue to be felt throughout its post-retrograde shadow period, threatening to leave you overly stressed and disorganized until the sixteenth. Luckily, Aries, you’ll have a chance for a reprieve through love’s healing touch as the sun makes its way through harmonious Libra. Lean in to these dreamy vibes by embracing plenty of self-care and nurturing your body, especially on days that feel particularly tense.

You’ll be in a body-conscious and peaceful mood throughout much of the month, Taurus, as the sun and Venus move through harmonious Libra and your solar sixth house. This cosmic climate will inspire you to embrace wellness, helping you reconnect with your health. Use this energy to reevaluate your lifestyle choices and personal habits, identifying and remedying any behaviors or situations that have unnecessarily elevated your stress levels. You might also find that eating more healthful foods and experiencing restorative sleep are more of a priority as you strive to become a more efficient version of yourself without adding more responsibility to your life.

Though Mercury’s retrograde journey through Libra and Virgo might have cursed you with a healthy dose of drama and emotional upheaval last month, you can breathe a sigh of relief when your planetary ruler heads direct once more on October 2. However, Gemini, you could feel as though you’re still struggling to tidy up any messes this planetary backspin contributed to until this cerebral celestial body clears its post-retrograde shadow on the sixteenth. Use this time wisely by issuing any apologies you owe, reorganizing your space and finding your center so you can enjoy what remains of Libra season.

With Libra season in full swing, Cancer, you’ll be devoted to the idea of spending more time in and elevating your space as the sun and Venus travel through your solar fourth house. Recharging at home will be vital to your sense of personal balance, though you’ll also feel the urge to decorate for Halloween, try new recipes or move furniture around. You should also consider bringing some homey elements from your childhood into your abode, dusting off old knickknacks from when you were a kid or recreating the interior design choices behind your grandmother’s sitting room.

You’ll view the world through a fair-minded lens this month as the Libra sun and Venus activate your solar third house. Unfortunately, you might also become more sensitive to the injustices that plague our world. This could cause your mental health to take a hit if you don’t monitor your news consumption in accordance with what you can carry emotionally. These vibes will also elevate your skills as a mediator, Leo, so don’t be afraid to step in and attempt to mend quarrels between loved ones, helping to replace conflict with peace.

You’ll be in the mood to slow down and embrace the sweeter side of life this month, dear Virgo, as the Libra sun and Venus travel through your solar second house. These vibes are all about soft sweaters, pumpkin spice lattes and the golden hues of fallen leaves as the stars push you to indulge your senses while admiring the world around you. Treating yourself to the occasional luxury will also help boost morale, allowing you to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

September 2022 Crossword's Solution

You’ll carry yourself with composure and grace this month, Libra, as the sun and Venus make their way through your sign. This cosmic climate provides you with the sense that you are in your element on a universal scale as the stars align to help you feel supported, vibrant and optimistic. Keep your eyes peeled for signs and synchronicities during this time,

placement provides you

soul,

of your

find

Luckily, the placement of Venus in your solar twelfth house brings an extra element of grace into the equation, allowing you

find

and the journey that brought you to where you are today.

The social butterfly that lives within you will be soaring high this month, Sagittarius, as the sun and Venus travel through airy Libra and the sector of your chart that governs community. This cosmic climate can provide you with an opportunity to relate to people from all walks of life, helping you expand your social circle and view of humanity. Try to keep your mind open when it comes to communicating with those whose views oppose your own, because your patience could reveal an unexpected meeting of minds. Try to remember that compromise can help rebuild broken bridges, bringing healing to our society at the grassroots level.

yourself might feel like a difficult task through the first part of the month, Pisces, as Saturn and Uranus square off in the sky. This planetary exchange could cause you to inadvertently blurt out any thoughts that are racing through your head, which could get you in trouble if you aren’t careful. You might also want to be mindful of who you share your deepest secrets or emotions with, confiding only in those you know you can trust and who won’t use the information against you later.

September 2022 Issue Sudoku's Solution

Reflections of a Summer Volunteer

clean, as they saw the litter around the playground equipment, the grassy areas of the park, and the sidewalks.

POINT

VIEW

Every week we have more and more rocks, big and small, painted in colorful ways, lining up the front of our community hall building.

Every weekend, the pavement becomes colorful with the drawings of both the children and the parents.

If it hasn’t rained the whole week, I’d still see the drawings the following Sunday. If it has rained, there’s a completely fresh slate for people to draw.

while they helped me for a few weeks.

Overall, I thought that it was great way to experience something that is not usual in my daily life. It was good to interact with children and parents, or visit the neighbourhood park located in a corner of the neighbourhood that I typically don’t pass by.

one’s home can be huge for kids and families. It helps make everyone feel more connected with the people who live in close proximity to them.

While there may not be a currently

weekly free activity right now, your idea can be the key to starting one, whether it is an activity by the park, weekly karaoke at the hall, or a casual walking group. These regular, seemingly mundane interactions make a community welcoming and strong.

Giselle General came from the cold, mountainous region of the Benguet province, and immigrated to Canada as a teenager in 2007. She completed a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Alberta, and has a career in the nonprofit sector. 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, FilipinaYEG, and self-published a book called The Humanity of Me, and is active in numerous volunteerbased initiatives.

This year, I dedicated my summer to doing something for the first time – committing to a weekly volunteer activity in my neighbourhood. A few factors influenced my decision: I just resigned from my job and my last day was the end of June. I wanted to get to know this new neighbourhood we moved into a few months prior, and I wanted to do something outdoors to limit my exposure to COVID. If you haven’t seen me in an indoor in-person event last summer, that is why.

To get started, I signed up to be a volunteer board member for my neighbourhood’s community league, which is basically the equivalent of the Baranggay Associations in the Philippines. These are volunteerrun groups where they do events to serve and connect residents together, also to advocate on behalf of the neighbourhood when government policies are proposed. I’ve always wanted to somehow capture the vibe of neighbourliness, of the barranggay and also that of bayanihan

I came up with the idea of a free drop-in event by the community hall and neighbourhood park on weekends, where families can do simple activities to either hang out or help out. I have arts and crafts ready as well as tools to clean up garbage in a way that is organized and sanitary. “Sunday Funday” became the name of this weekly program, and we promoted it over social media, e-newsletter and our print neighbourhood paper.

From Canada Day long weekend right up to Labour Day long weekend, every Sunday, from 1 – 4 PM I would set up my station by the neighbourhood park. Take out the tables, the tent, chairs and supplies from the community hall and make sure I have everything I need for people to choose their activity.

I was pleasantly surprised by how much the school-aged children recognized the supplies to pick up garbage. They were so eager to help

It also became an opportunity for a couple of high school students to volunteer. In the nearby high school, community service hours are part of the requirement to pass their Religion class in high school. Two Filipino teenagers signed up, and it was fun to get to know them

I was worried that my summer would be boring because I didn’t feel comfortable traveling or going to events in indoor places. There was comfort and such enjoyment in having something to look forward to every week, wondering how many new faces I would see or if the neighbourhood kids had returned.

In sharing this story, I encourage you all to find ways to help in your neighbourhood community league or organization. The impact of seeing friendly faces in public spaces near

BIRDS IN ONE SHOT

Lito Mendoza Velasco

Your own AFJ Editor met with some Filipino Government Officials and Community Leaders, delivered an Inspirational Talk during the 54th Founding Anniversary celebration of Tau Gamma Phi, and explored significant places in Ontario

I, as your communicator, editor, and a servantleader, always try to bear witness to what I am saying and sharing. When I say that CONNECTION is significant in order to become CREDIBLE; then, I am trying to get all of us connected to the SOURCE. Simply because we should serve as EXTENSIONS. And, of course, when there’s CREDIBILITY, then there would be superfluous CONNECTIONS in a broader sense.

For example, I personally introduced some of the fraternity’s leaders to Member of the Parliament Rechie Valdez of Mississauga-Streetsville as I am certain she can be instrumental in order to reciprocate and extend her services especially when we are dealing with federal concerns. I also brought the brotherhood to the Philippine Embassy in Ottawa and met Consul General Jeffrey Salik, where he promised his services without any stain of favouritism or discrimination. He said that the easiest way to be efficiently serve is to prepare and comply with all the necessary requirements.

I’ve also invited ate Rosemer Enverga, the wife of the late Senator Jun Tobias Enverga as I’m quite sure she still has connections from the office where the late Senator used to actively serve. I also brought Ronnie and Claire Dela Gana, the head organizers of the GOLDEN BALANGAY AWARDS, whose purpose is to recognize the Outstanding Filipino Leaders in Canada. I would also like to inform the public that the Ontario Filipino Journal’s circulation may be extended in Ontario in the near future through Ronnie and Claire Dela Gana. My friend, Rev. Fr. Norberto “Nono” Eyule also exerted his effort to join us at ate Rosemer’s residence in spite of his busy schedule.

I am confident that all of these people can be of help to our community as needs arise in the future.

The commonaly or alignment of the Core Values and Philosophical Foundations of both the Alberta

Filipino Journal and the Tau Gamma Phi are strong factors for why they are becoming credible sources of information and producers of leaders respectively.

If the main purpose of our existence as TRISKELION is to live and let live, then the AFJ can serve as the Pulse of the Filipino Community in Canada.

Both of them therefore are inter-connected and co-existing in order to love and let everyone know that love should always reign in our hearts.

A thankful heart is blessed. A renewed Triskelion is a blessing to society.

Happy 54th Founding Anniversary, Tau Gamma Phi! A salute to all leaders and organizers throughout Canada and in the whole world!

Happy Thanksgiving, Canada!

L-R: Chairman-Elect Dexter Godenez, Ted Apolonio, Fr. Nono Eyule, Rosemer Enverga, Nanay Purita De Guzman, Eloisa “Chuchay” De Guzman, Nestor “Jun” Miranda, Lito Velasco

Dinner prepared by Ms. Rosemer Enverga in her house.

L-R: TAO-Canada Chairman Raymund Pradas, Loi “Chuchay” De Guzman, Consul General Jeffrey Salik, Nanay Puring De Guzman, Lucy Ocampo-Staples,Maria Teresa E. Natbuada, PH Embassy’s Administrative Assistant, Teddy Apolonio

Editor Lito Velasco and ate Rosemer Enverga

L-R: Reynaldo “Bhoy” Valiao, Lito Velasco, Audie Capuchino

L-R: Rosemer Enverga, Sonia Rodas, Ronnie Dela Gana, Claire Dela Gana, Audie Capuchino, Lito Velasco

The Tau Gamma Phi’s 54th Founding Anniversary Celebration’s attendees last October 1, 2022 with the Theme: “Building a Better Fraternity Through Connection and Credibility,” hosted by the TAO-Canada.

L-R: Editor Lito Velasco, MP Rechie Valdez, Audie Capuchino, Nestor “Jun” Miranda, Teddy Apolonio, Lucy Ocampo-Staples

Is Your Hut Burning?

Theonly survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, uninhabited island. He prayed

HUWAG

feverishly for God to rescue him, and every day he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming. Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect himself from the elements, and to store his few possessions.

One day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, the smoke rolling up to the sky. The worst had happened, and everything was lost. He was stunned with grief and anger. "God, how could you do this to me?" he cried.

Early the next day, however, he was awakened by the sound of a ship that was approaching the island. It had come to rescue him.

"How did you know I was here?" asked the weary man of his rescuers.

We say: "I'm too tired." God says: "I will give you rest." (Matt 11:28-20)

We say: "Nobody really loves me." God says: "I love you." (John 3:16John 13:34)

We say: "I can't go on." God says: "My grace is sufficient." (II Cor. 12:9 - Psalm 91:15)

We say: "I can't figure things out." God says: "I will direct your steps." (Proverbs 3:5-6)

We say: "I can't do it." God says: "You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you." (Phil 4:13)

We say: "I don't have enough faith."

God says: "I've given everyone a measure of faith." (Romans 12:3)

We say: "I'm not smart enough." God says: "I give you wisdom." (I Cor. 1:30)

We say: "I feel all alone." God says: "I will never leave you or forsake you." (Heb. 13:5)

Consider passing this on. You never know who feels like their hut is burning today!

Hermo Toribio Reyes Pagtakhan hermopagtakhanlaw@ hotmail.com

Hermo Toribio Reyes Pagtakhan of Edmonton, Alberta is currently a Family Counselor with Arbor Memorial Gardens whom he joined in 2013. Hermo is also President of PROXSMART GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES and of NOTIFY GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES which develop Mobile Apps for Digital Marketing and Contactless Technologies which enable Businesses to operate their businesses and at the same time keep their Employees and Clients safe from Covid19 Contamination.

"We saw your smoke signal," they replied.

It is easy to get discouraged when things are going bad, but we shouldn't lose heart, because God is at work in our lives, even in the midst of pain and suffering. Remember, next time your little hut is burning to the ground, it may just be a smoke signal that summons the grace of God.

For all the negative things we have to say to ourselves, God has a positive answer for it:

We say: "It's impossible." God says: "All things are possible." (Luke 18:27)

We say: "It's not worth it." God says: 'It will be worth it." (Romans 8:28)

We say: "I can't forgive myself." God says: "I forgive you." (I John 1:9 Romans 8:1)

We say: "I can't manage." God says: "I will supply all your needs." (Phil. 4:19)

We say: "I'm afraid." God says: "I have not given you the spirit of fear." (II Tim. 1:7)

We say: "I'm always worried and frustrated." God says: "Cast all your cares on ME." (I Peter 5:7)

CELEBRATIONS OF LIFE: Moving Forward

Birthdays are everyone’s most cherished

between life and its Giver. Nobody is born alone. There are two causes of life that we have to acknowledge,

as this is when we celebrate the

and recognize. The first is the Ultimate Cause or Giver, our

and the

are the

causes,

are these

who

who

people around them. May you all

and recognize his or her life is also

Robert Tria Blows on his 71st Birthday Cake

Happy birthday! Linny Aberia (3rd from left), President at Academy of Health Care celebrated her birthday last September 17, 2022. Birthdate: August 28

The Birthday Greeters (Photo by Lito Velasco)

L-R: Letty Tria, granddaughter Kymani, Robert Tria (Celebrant), daughter Michelle (Photo by Lito Velasco)

Mel and Rona Gallardo are expecting their second baby. Palabok House Family and friends threw the couple with a baby shower party.

Happy birthday Riana Torrejon Beautiful and so loved. Happy Birthday, our Palangga - From her parents October 12