Diaryo Filipino December 2014

Vol. 5.8|December 2014

TA O N

If you are thinking about selling your home, 2014 is the best year to put your house in the market.

Personal Injury Lawyers

Car & Truck Accidents Motorcycle Accidents Slip & Falls Chronic Pain Spinal Cord Injuries Fire & Burn Injuries Brain Injuries Wrongful Death

Contact me for a Free Home Evaluation and Professional Real Estate Advice!

403.253.1029 FREE Consultation, NO FEES Until You Collect

Home, Hospital, Evening & Saturday Appointments Available

Sovereign Centre

Suite 290, 6700 MacLeod Trail SE, Calgary, Alberta T2H 0L3

AT

M A N I G O N G

B A G O N G

www.groverlawfirm.com

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

What’s New in 2015?

By Cheryle Posadas-Guinsatao

CCIS Christmas Celebration with Temporary Foreign Workers p14

The other side of Christmas p15

IS YOUR HEART READY FOR CHRISTMAS ? p2

PA S K O

sgrover@groverlawfirm.com

Simbang Gabi

p4

Vol. 4.07 | November 2013

As the new year arrives, here are some new immigration updates that will all take place on January 2015. For more information visit www.cic.gc.ca Express Entry System In January 2015, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) will launch a new electronic system called Express Entry to manage applications for permanent residence under certain economic immigration programs.

The Express Entry system will be the first step to immigrate to Canada under these programs. Potential candidates will be able to complete an Express Entry profile at any time once the system is online. Note that there will be no deadline to complete a profile and there will be no caps on the number of candidates that will be accepted to the pool.

Anyone who is accepted into the Express Entry pool could get an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence. Draws to invite candidates to apply are expected to take place at regular intervals over the course of each year. We will only pick the top ranking candidates regardless of when they were accepted into the pool. If you have been invited to apply, you will have 60 days to submit a complete Application for Permanent Residence online.

Express Entry will launch at 12 noon EST January 1st, 2015. The first draw for an invitation to apply is planned for the last week of January.

Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP) Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) has announced that the Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP) for Canadian immigration is scheduled to reopen on

January 2, 2015. The PGP allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their foreign parents and grandparents to Canada as Canadian permanent residents.

There will be a cap of 5,000 complete applications accepted, the same number as the previous application cycle that opened in January, 2014. That cap was reached in just three weeks. Given that many potential applicants have been waiting patiently for the PGP to reopen, it is likely that that the next application cycle will reach its cap.

Applications received before January 2, 2015 will not be accepted and will be returned to the applicant.

To be eligible for PGP sponsorship, the sponsor in Canada must meet the following requirements: Be a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident; Be 18 years of age or older; Exceed the minimum necessary income level

continued on page 04

, 2001, 2002 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012

Open Sunday to Friday

M A L I G AYA N G

(by appointment only)

Complete Family, Cosmetic and Orthodontics Dentistry

Edmonton (780) 444-1444 Dr. Nimrod G. MontaĂąo & Associates www.drmontanodds.com

10827 95 St. NW Edmonton Ph: 587.524.7555 Fax: 587.524.7556

www.diaryofilipino.com | diaryofilipino@gmail.com | Calgary 403.708.7191 | Edmonton 780.800.9792

02

Editorial

DECEMBER 2014

calgary • edmonton • red deer • leduc • grande prairie • drumheller • lethbridge • medicine hat • brooks • high river • fort mcmurray • drayton • fox creek • regina • banff • canmore

Editorial Cheryle Posadas-Guinsatao

The New Year Ahead

““Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

$1.25

theStaff

For subscription email us at diaryofilipino@gmail.com

Main Office

Publishers

Antonio Amorado Manuel Perez Cheryle Posadas-Guinsatao

4758 14th St NE Calgary, Alberta

Editor in-Chief

(403) 708-7191 | (403) 613-1182

Calgary

Cheryle Posadas-Guinsatao

Edmonton

Asst Editor in-Chief

(780) 800-9792

Marietta Pangan-Dutkoski

As 2014 comes to an end, you may find yourself reflecting on the past year and daydreaming about what’s to come.

The Year of 2015 is the Year of the Sheep. The Sheep is the Eighth Sign of the Chinese Zodiac, which consists of 12 Animal Signs. It is lucky that the Sheep is ranked eighth in the cycle of Chinese Zodiac Animals, because the number “eight” in Chinese is an auspicious one, symbolizing peace and prosperity. In Chinese, there is a popular proverb: “Three sheep bring harmony and prosperity.” According to the tradition, during the Year of the Sheep, you should focus on home and family, and be helpful to parents and the elderly. If family disputes arise, be a good listener, but, don’t take side or try to place blame.

But life is a mixed bag for most people. Each year we encounter a combination of unexpected blessings

and good times, but along with those there are always some inevitable challenges.

The new year ahead of us in 2015 will be no different from other years in this respect, but both the blessings and the challenges will be new and different. When 2014 started, I remember 2013 as a year when selfies, photobombs and twerking references surge. I remember a fair surge of laughs, mishaps or regrets--now is the time to start 2015 fresh.

Still memories of events and stories of 2014 cannot be easily forgotten.

When asked about what you remember the most in 2014, my daughters mentioned the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. Whether you thought the videos were funny or just spamming your Facebook feed, the viral charity campaign was an unbridled success, raising over $100 million for ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) research. That also started

a trend in the social media like Gratitude Challenge, etc. They also mentioned about the Ebola outbreak in West Africa and of Malala Yousafzai as the youngest Noble Peace Prize winner.

When I asked my husband, he said the most memorable for him was the Burger King and Tim Hortons deal. He hates the fact that Tim Hortons is no longer Canadian owned. He also mentioned the buy off between Safeway and Sobeys resulting in the closure of some of its non performing stores. When I asked my mom, she mentioned about the disappearance of Malaysian Flight 370 last March 8 that captivated the world. A Boeing 777 carrying 239 people completely vanished en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing, sparking a massive search, conspiracy theories and a mystery that still hasn’t been solved. She said the most memorable for her is

Pope Francis for 2014. In an unprecedented ceremony in April, Pope Francis presided over the canonization of two of his predecessors -- John XXIII and John Paul II. The simultaneous elevation to sainthood of John, a pope revered by liberals, and John Paul II, a hero to many Catholic conservatives, was widely viewed as a statesmanlike attempt to reach out to both factions in the church.

Every year, I remember an advice from a friend Jayla who now lives in Barrie, Ontario. Every year she sends me a letter of what happened to her life the past year. When she lost her parents and sibling in an accident, I copy this portion of her meditation.

“When the nights are long and you can’t sleep for all the sadness of a past left unresolved; when you cannot grasp the future squarely and move on; when the past haunts both your waking

Artist/Life & Style SE

Diaryo Filipino is published through the support of our advertisers. Our hope is that you will support them in return.

Henry G. Anima II

Writers/Contributors Romeo Honorio Santa Aquino-Posadas Len Chan Lito de Jesus Beng Frost Manuel Perez Charmaine Perez Madame KC Fr. Edmund F. Vargas Razel Guillermo Chona Villaroman Kiko Ibarra Andy Chua Gian Abellana

Diaryo Filipino invites the community to share news, views & opinions, articles, feedbacks and pictures.

All opinions and views expressed in the Diaryo are that of the individual contributors and should not be considered to reflect the opinions or views of the Diaryo Filipino or its staff. Diaryo Filipino reserves the rights to refuse or edit any submissions and is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials, artwork & other materials. No part of Diaryo Filipino may be reproduced nor reprinted without the express written consent of the publisher.

Graphic Artist/Sketch Pixecolours Media Haus Inc.

Creative Director

Antonio Amorado/PMHI

Photographers

Lito de Jesus / Andre Harms Mark Ancheta / Elizalde Francisco Mark Dutkoski

Delivered at your mailbox

Email us for more details

diaryofilipino@gmail.com

hours and your dreams, it’s likely that you’re in the grip of anxiety and inertia. There will always come a point at which you must cease to stay stuck in the past or it will define you and mark

www.diaryofilipino.com | diaryofilipino@gmail.com | Calgary 403.708.7191 | Edmonton 780.800.9792

/yr

every step you take from now on.”

Why do I copy it? Because every year I cannot forget the people that passed away may it be an continued on page 06

Feature Article

DECEMBER 2014

03

calgary • edmonton • red deer • leduc • grande prairie • drumheller • lethbridge • medicine hat • brooks • high river • fort mcmurray • drayton • fox creek • regina • banff • canmore

Feature Article Santa Aquino-Posadas

FEATURE ARTICLE

IS YOUR HEART READY FOR CHRISTMAS ?

We have Jesus , the reason why we have Christmas .

Open your heart to everyone .

Let this Christmas fill your heart with kindness and generosity to every soul on earth…………

Every month of December ,we celebrate Jesus Christ’s birthday. Over the centuries we have different forms and ways of celebrations. But do you know that GOD chose to be born in poverty? What does it mean to us moderns in this strange lesson of God’s birth ? Are our hearts filled with longing for Jesus who loved us so much that He was born in a cave, a manger, died on a cross and took upon Himself the burden and slavery of our humanity and our

sin? Do we desire to follow HIM, to detach our hearts from all things that are not HIM in order to live in spirit and in reality ? Are we going to share with the hungry ones of the world?

Are we going to give of our necessity ?Which is it going to be ? Will we spend millions of gifts for the man and woman who has everything ?or will we give to those who have nothing , in memory of the child Jesus , who was GOD and was born in a cave for love of us? Which is it going to be ?

What kind of birthplace are you providing the child Jesus ? Is the straw shiny and golden and clear?

Is the manger solid and will hold it up under the weight of the child? Are the animals quiet, scrubbed, and brushed? Have you

made the door of the stable of your heart secured against the cold winds of apathy, selfishness and indifferences so that these cannot penetrate? Is the dry wood of your sacrifices ,your penances, your prayers ready to be lit to provide warmth in that cold stable ? Are you ready for His birth? BEHOLD! He comes of the womb of a woman. We catch our first glimpse of love on the straw of a stable. There He is… Emptying Himself the Lord of Hosts ,out of love He became a child. HE who possesses all power and glory. This Christmas let it be a special one for everybody. Put the child into your arms and care for HIM as if he were your very own baby. Turn to our Lady and she will teach you how to love and care for him.

We can be ready and open our heart during Christmas season through almsgiving.. It can be in the form of money, food, clothing.

Not everyone may be able to give them, but we all can give the alms of words which we all need. We can give the alms of words everywhere. Look and see that lonely child. Have you a moment to spare to give him the alms of a few

little words ? It can bring light into a darkness that should not be there. Making friends with a lonely, lost or unloved child be he or she poor or rich is to bring Jesus to that little one. Take the child into your heart and take Jesus into your heart and surely he will reverse the process in eternity by making you into his heart. Alms of words must be given lovingly, gently and thoughtfully. Is our love watchful, ready to give the alms of gentle words that can keep a door from closing a gate may be unlocked and opened allowing light and love to flood the minds beginning to doubt the very existence of love. Let us not be blind to the thousands little signs that exist in our own family.

This Christmas , let us make it a season of atonement. Jesus was born in poverty for the love of

faithful Almighty to us all. Today the same scene re-enacts itself in underprivileged and wealthy countries. There are specific of the great poverty in today’s world. It is already brought to us all its gory details by the social media. God loves us that He uses these incredible and forceful pictures to draw the world’s attention to what those poor are suffering. Let us then offer this Christmas season in atonement. Let us have fasting for those who have nothing to eat. Let us keep on praying for those who forgotten to pray and lost their faith . Let us cry out to God with an ever greater faith so that those all around us can “catch the fire “ of faith.

This Christmas season let us have fasting and feasting, a humble way of celebration. Let it be a must to go together. Tears and joy

FOR MORE

INFORMATION GO TO OUR

FACEBOOK FANPAGE

www.diaryofilipino.com | diaryofilipino@gmail.com | Calgary 403.708.7191 | Edmonton 780.800.9792

must mingle to make an offering for the infant Jesus, offering of diamonds and pearls---all kinds of atonement. For today’s infant is every child who is born in shacks, in streets, or discarded in garbage, cans or sewers. Let us take the place of the three Kings ways.

This Christmas season let us take time to value the stillness of the surroundings , the sky, the sea and especially the sunrise and sunset of life .Let the peaceful and quiet atmosphere prevails around us. I feel a serene feeling looking at the roof of houses covered with snow I can imagine and see the blessed Virgin Mary reflected in the vigil light that always burns before her beautiful face. It looks especially lovely in the dark of the winter nights continued on page 15

04

Community News

DECEMBER 2014

calgary • edmonton • red deer • leduc • grande prairie • drumheller • lethbridge • medicine hat • brooks • high river • fort mcmurray • drayton • fox creek • regina • banff • canmore

Simbang Gabi

by Robert Ganaden

“Simbang Gabi” is a Filipino Christmas tradition, it is a series of nine (9) dawn masses, the mass starts as early as 4:00 a.m. It begins on December 16 and ends on the midnight of the 24th of December, which is the midnight mass.

This tradition was introduced by the Spanish friars to allow the farmers to hear mass before going to the fields early in the morning. Simbang Gabiis also known by its popular Spanish name as the Misa de Gallo, or “mass of the rooster.”

In the olden days, the church bells start ringing as early as three o’ clock waking people up so they can get ready for the four o’clock dawn mass.

The Roman Catholic churches across the nation start to open their doors shortly before the break of dawn to welcome the faithfuls to the Simbang Gabi mass.

Today, the tradition of Simbang Gabi continues whether you live in the city or in the province, although it is celebrated in new ways. Most churches are decorated with colourful lights and beautiful parol lanterns to welcome the church goers.

The Nativity Scene or “Belen” is displayed in preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. It shows Baby Jesus in a manger with Mother Mary and Saint Joseph. There are shepherds and farm animals. A complete scenario of the Belen includes the three wise men carrying their gifts to Infant Jesus and the star of Bethlehem that guided them in their journey.

Shortly after the mass, traditional delicacies awaits the church goers, there are food stalls right outside the church, popular favourites are bibingka, puto (rice cakes), puto bungbong, suman sa pasko, suman sa ibos and usually served with tea or coffee. Hot pandesal (breakfast roll) are also very popular.

Simbang Gabi is not just a tradition that is celebrated because we need to do so but it is the spiritual preparation for Christmas, in commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. The Simbang Gabi is also seen as a way of requesting blessings from the Lord, as most people believe that if one completes the whole series of nine dawn

masses, wishes will be granted.

Over the years, Filipino communities have made some changes in the celebration of Simbang Gabi, some urban parishes now celebrates Misa de Gallo around 7- 8 in the evening in order to accommodate the needs of the members of the community who have different work schedules.

The Simbang Gabi tradition is also practiced

by Catholic Filipinos communities who are living elsewhere in the world. No matter how or when this celebration takes place, the Simbang Gabi provides a strong indication of the depth of Catholicism among the Filipino people. Let’s encourage our friends, not only Filipinos but Catholics in general – to practice Simbang Gabi because it is a great source of spiritual nourishment as we prepare for the celebration of the birth of our Lord Jesus. continued from page 1 Attached is the updated schedule for the Simbang Gabi this year for this program by submitting commitment to build a in Calgary, Airdrie and notices of assessment issued fast and flexible economic Okotoks. by the Canadian Revenue immigration system.

What’s New in 2015?

2014 Simbang Gabi Schedule (Calgary, Airdrie and Okotoks) DATE

VENUE / HOST

ADDRESS

CAROLING

MASS

1

Sunday, November 30, 2014

St. Albert The Great Church

10 Prestwick Dr. SE, Calgary

6:00 PM

2

Friday, December 05, 2014

Holy Spirit Church

10827 - 24 St. SE, Calgary

6:00 PM

6:30 PM

3

Saturday, December 06, 2014

St. Anthony's Church / CFC

5340 - 4 St. SW, Calgary

6:30 PM

7:00 PM 6:30 PM

4

Sunday, December 07, 2014

5

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

6 7

Friday, December 12, 2014

8

Saturday, December 13, 2014

Friday, December 12, 2014

9

Saturday, December 13, 2014

10

Sunday, December 14, 2014

11 12 13

6:30 PM

Ste. Famille Church/ El Shaddai

1717 - 5 St. SW, Calgary

6:00 PM

St. Luke's Church / CFC

1566 Northmount Dr. NW, Calgary

5:30 PM

6:00 PM

St. Luke's Church

1566 Northmount Dr. NW, Calgary

5:30 PM

6:00 PM

St. Joseph Church / K of C

640 - 19 Ave., NW, Calgary

7:00 PM

7:30 PM

St. James Church / CFC

338040 – 32nd St E, Okotoks

6:00 PM

6:30 PM

St. Patrick's Church / CFC

1414 Shawnessy Blvd. SW, Calgary

6:30 PM

7:00 PM

St. Bernadette's Church

7103 - 20A St. SE, Calgary

5:00 PM

5:30 PM

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

St. Luke's Church

1566 Northmount Dr. NW, Calgary

5:30 PM

6:00 PM

Monday, December 15, 2014

St. Mark's Church

5552 Madigan Dr. NE, Calgary

6:30 PM

7:00 PM

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

St. Luke's Church

1566 Northmount Dr. NW, Calgary

5:30 PM

6:00 PM 7:00 PM

14

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

St. Mark's Church

5552 Madigan Dr. NE, Calgary

6:30 PM

15

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

St. Luke's Church

1566 Northmount Dr. NW, Calgary

5:30 PM

6:00 PM

16

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

St. Mark's Church

5552 Madigan Dr. NE, Calgary

6:30 PM

7:00 PM

17

Thursday, December 18, 2014

St. Mark's Church

5552 Madigan Dr. NE, Calgary

6:30 PM

7:00 PM

18

Thursday, December 18, 2014

St. Luke's Church / CFC

1566 Northmount Dr. NW, Calgary

6:30 PM

7:00 PM

19

Friday, December 19, 2014

Ascension Church

1100 Berkshire Blvd. NW, Calgary

6:30 PM

7:00 PM

20

Friday, December 19, 2014

St. Luke's Church

1566 Northmount Dr. NW, Calgary

5:30 PM

6:00 PM

21

Friday, December 19, 2014

St. Mark's Church

5552 Madigan Dr. NE, Calgary

6:30 PM

7:00 PM

22

Friday, December 19, 2014

St. Paul's Church / CFC

1305 Main St, Airdrie

6:30 PM

7:00 PM

23

Saturday, December 20, 2014

St. Mark's Church

5552 Madigan Dr. NE, Calgary

6:30 PM

7:00 PM

24

Saturday, December 20, 2014

St. Thomas More Church

15 Templebow Rd. NE, Calgary

6:30 PM

7:00 PM

25

Saturday, December 20, 2014

Sacred Heart Church / NLCCC

1307 - 14 St. SW, Calgary

6:30 PM

7:00 PM

26

Sunday, December 21, 2014

Sacred Heart Church / FCSDC

1307 - 14 St. SW, Calgary

6:30 PM

7:00 PM

27

Sunday, December 21, 2014

St. Mark's Church

5552 Madigan Dr. NE, Calgary

7:00 PM

7:30 PM

28

Monday, December 22, 2014

St. Luke's Church

1566 Northmount Dr. NW, Calgary

5:30 PM

6:00 PM

29

Monday, December 22, 2014

St. Mark's Church

5552 Madigan Dr. NE, Calgary

6:30 PM

7:00 PM

30

Tuesday, December 23, 2014

St. Luke's Church / CFC

1566 Northmount Dr. NW, Calgary

6:30 PM

7:00 PM

31

Tuesday, December 23, 2014

St. Mark's Church

5552 Madigan Dr. NE, Calgary

6:30 PM

7:00 PM

** Note: Reception and fellowship (Potluck) will follow after each Mass

Agency (CRA) in support of their sponsorship. Sponsors must also demonstrate they have met the minimum necessary income level for three consecutive years. If married or in a common-law relationship, the income of both persons can be included; The sponsor must sign an undertaking to repay any provincial social assistance benefits paid to the sponsor and accompanying family member(s), if any, for a period of 20 years, if necessary. If the sponsor resides in Quebec, an additional ‘undertaking’ must be signed.

New Immigrant Investor Venture Capital Pilot Program Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander announced that Canada will unveil a pilot program in January 2015 to attract experienced business immigrants who can actively invest in the Canadian economy, stimulating innovation, economic growth and job creation.

The new Immigrant Investor Venture Capital Pilot Program is part of a series of transformational changes that build on the Government’s

In addition to making an investment of $2 million for a period of 15 years and having a net worth of $10 million, immigrant investors will be required to meet certain program eligibility criteria related to language and education, and have proven business or investment experience. This will ensure that immigrant investors will have a strong impact on the Canadian economy, and that those admitted for permanent residence will be well prepared to integrate into the Canadian business landscape and society.

This new pilot program will begin accepting applications in late January 2015 and will provide a pathway to permanent residence for approximately 50 immigrant investors and their families.

The creation of the Immigrant Investor Venture Capital Pilot Program fulfills the Government of Canada’s commitment in Economic Action Plan 2014 to create a more focused and effective pilot program that will ensure that immigrants who come to Canada deliver meaningful benefits to our economy.

www.diaryofilipino.com | diaryofilipino@gmail.com | Calgary 403.708.7191 | Edmonton 780.800.9792

Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program The province of Saskatchewan will have 5,500 immigration nominations accepted in 2015, an increase of 775 (or 16 per cent) on the 2014 total. The government of Saskatchewan, which had been seeking an increase in its Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) for Canadian immigration, has stated that the increased quota will help to alleviate labour market shortages.

Saskatchewan currently has the lowest unemployment rate of all the Canadian provinces.

The nominations will be made through the SINP’s new Saskatchewan Express category, which will be announced on January 2 and come into operation in early 2015, along with the federal government’s new Express Entry immigration selection system.

“The benefits include faster federal processing of permanent residence applications, and a new avenue for businesses looking to fill critical labour market shortages through the recruitment of foreign workers,” said Saskatchewan Minister Responsible for Immigration, Jeremy Harrison, in a press release.

06

DECEMBER 2014

Community News

calgary • edmonton • red deer • leduc • grande prairie • drumheller • lethbridge • medicine hat • brooks • high river • fort mcmurray • drayton • fox creek • regina • banff • canmore

ROUND TABLE As gas prices fell, DISCUSSION ON Alberta takes action to FAMILY VIOLENCE control spending

By Len Chan

By Cheryle Posadas-Guinsatao

A Domestic Violence Round table Discussion was held by Calgary Domestic Violence Collective(CDVC) agencies along with Ethno-Cultural Council of Calgary(ECCC),Centre For Newcomers and Chinese Community Responsive to Family Violence last November 26 6-8:30 pm at Centre for Newcomers 1010, 999 - 36 Street NE, Calgary.

The Calgary Domestic Violence Collective works with members to provide a coordinated response to violence prevention in Calgary.

We strongly believe that increasing public awareness, providing education, and working to improve legislation can assist in prevention.

CDVC is committed to ending domestic violence through collaborative and coordinated interventions and prevention strategies.

ECCC’s Vic Lantion opened the evening along with CDVC to the 50 people in attendance and a video information on domestic violence that

shows that every year the Calgary Police Service responds to thousands of domestic violence calls.

“In Calgary alone, the police service responds to more than 16,500 domestic conflict calls each year. Just one is too many. By working together we can end violence in our community.”

Some of the issues surrounding domestic violence were discussed.

Domestic Violence happens at many levels from all walks of life.

Culture, age and income, financial burden, broken homes, religion, alcohol and drug addiction, divorce custody, child abuse are just some of the main root causes and lingers for years.

There are many agencies involved in trying to help, but often barriers they face are language, legal and fear. Most of the victims do not want to come forward because of isolation, ridicule and disbelief. Many who are aware of domestic violence like friends

and neighbours do not report because they do not want to get involved and seeing it as internal family issue. If domestic violence are reported and those reporting to help at times gets victimize by the abusers, its extended family or others.

Domestice violence is the attempt, act or intent of someone within a relationship, where the relationship is characterized by intimacy, dependency or trust, to intimidate either by threat or by the use of physical force on another person or property. The purpose of the abuse is to control and or exploit through neglect, intimidation, inducement of fear or by inflicting pain. Abusive behavior can take many forms including: verbal, physical, sexual, psychological, emotional, spiritual, and economic and the violation of rights.

All forms of abusive behavior are ways in which one human being is trying to have control and/or exploit or have power over another.

“While our provincial financial picture is strong and we are in the best position to deal with this low price environment, it is important that we take action and control spending. Sustained low prices are having a significant impact on provincial revenues and we must exercise fiscal discipline and treat taxpayer dollars prudently.”

This is what President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance, Robin Campbell said as Alberta Premier Jim Prentice announced cost containment measures taken immediately and assigned a new committee to lay foundations for Budget 2015.

Resource revenues

are expected to be lower while the population is expected to be higher, and the combination poses some unique challenges for Alberta.

“This is not budgeting as usual. Governing responsibly requires us to be disciplined with spending, prudent with revenues, and cautious with forecasts. We are taking action, and I have asked a team to devote their energy and attention to ensuring we make the right decisions for Albertans,” stressed Premier Jim Prentice.

A new seven-member Budget 2015 Committee will begin work on the 2015 budget. Members are: Jim Prentice, Premier (chair); Robin Campbell, President of Treasury Board and Minister of

Finance (vice-chair); Stephen Mandel, Minister of Health; Diana McQueen, Minister of Municipal Affairs; Frank Oberle, Minister of Energy; Manmeet Bhullar, Minister of Infrastructure; and Ric McIver, Minister of Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour.

The committee’s work begins immediately, and will continue until the budget is introduced in the spring.

The committee will be looking at economic projections, capital and operating budgets, policy commitments, and revenue forecasts. It will make recommendations to Treasury Board.

Ministers are not receiving additional compensation for this continued on page 08

continued from page 02

The New Year Ahead unknown kababayans, a friend, a loved relative, or just someone I know like Robin Williams or Jim Flaherty. I think of them and say a prayer for them asking that wherever they are that they will watch over us as we look ahead in the future.

I know that the sun shines even on the cloudiest day.

Difficult times test your patience, self-control and stamina. We need to move toward it with friendliness

and curiosity and find the love and wisdom that are indestructible. Oprah Winfrey said that “Year’s end is neither an end nor a beginning but a going on, with all the wisdom that experience can instill in us. Let us say cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” With this said, let us remember to find time to nurture our soul, possibly through meditation, prayer, or inspirational

reading. May the New Year bring you abundant blessings, help broaden your goals, and achieve at least one cherished goal. May the New Year encourage you to broaden your mind, to learn about the world, other cultures, and to show the world what you can do.

To everyone: “A Blessed Christmas and a Joyful New Year!”

www.filipinianastore.com

www.diaryofilipino.com | diaryofilipino@gmail.com | Calgary 403.708.7191 | Edmonton 780.800.9792

Immigration News

DECEMBER 2014

07

calgary • edmonton • red deer • leduc • grande prairie • drumheller • lethbridge • medicine hat • brooks • high river • fort mcmurray • drayton • fox creek • regina • banff • canmore

This is a reprint from Balitang Canada

By Marjorie Newman

CANADA A complaint was put forward by some Filipinos against a recruiter who operates a recruitment agency in Edmonton and Toronto without the proper authorization.

Edmonton-based recruiter Virgilio “Dhong” Cabilan recruits foreign workers for certain employers, and processes their Labour Market Opinions or LMO, for a certain fee, allegedly without the proper authorization and license.

The official website of the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council or ICCRC is where all accredited and licensed immigration consultants are listed.

Not to be in this list simply means one has no business being an

Complaints filed against Pinoy recruiter in Canada immigration consultant in Canada.

Searching Virgilio Cabilan’s name in this website produces no result.

But foreign worker Edgar Aguila said he was able to hire Cabilan to process his LMO. His sister referred Cabilan to him to do the job.

Aguila said Cabilan even went to the Philippines to try and recruit people, including his family.

“They had trusted him, like my family, to process paper for the LMO and since 2012, 2013, 2014 they had been sending money to him but they never have come to Canada.”

Aguila provided Balitang Canada with copies of the money transfers from the applicants in the

Philippines amounting to about 15,000 to 20,000 dollars for the LMO. Another complainant, a temporary foreign worker in Edmonton, who wished not to be identified, said he also sought Cabilan’s help in bringing his wife to Canada.

According to him, Cabilan charged them about 6,000 dollars for the processing.

However, he found out that Cabilan is not a licensed immigration consultant.

“Lately ko lang nalaman na si Cabilan pala hindi certified consultant.

Ngayon, since nakabayad na ako, natakot na ako na mag reklamo kasi ayaw ko na ma-withdraw ang pagpunta ng asawa ko rito. So hinayaan ko na ma process yon,” he said.

In Alberta,

government allows only licensed recruitment agencies, immigration consultants registered by ICCRC and immigration lawyers to charge fees for processing immigration applications.

Recruiters must also be accredited with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration or POEA to be eligible to recruit Filipino contract workers.

Cabilan refused to be interviewed on camera. However, during a telephone conversation with Cabilan who was in Toronto, he denied allegations filed against him.

He further clarifies that the Western Union money transfers were payments of debts owed by Aguila’s sister.

He states that the

http://authoring-2wsxzaq1.abs-cbn.com/globalpinoy/community/stories/2014/10/16/complaintsfiled-against-pinoy-recruiter-in-canada

complaints are Edgar Aguila’s way of getting payback due to a personal disagreement between them.

Aguila denies this and said he is exposing Cabilan to warn fellow kababayans.

“This Virgilio Cabilan should be stopped from scamming Filipinos and it is not right,” he said.

Balitang Canada is open for Cabilan’s statement for further clarification on the complaints against him.

Meanwhile, Philippine officials in Canada are reminding Filipinos to be very careful when seeking advice or help in processing their immigration applications,

www.diaryofilipino.com | diaryofilipino@gmail.com | Calgary 403.708.7191 | Edmonton 780.800.9792

and make sure they are dealing only with authorized and qualified persons.

TO REPORT ILLEGAL EMPLOYMENT AGENCY ACTIVITIES, YOU CAN CALL THE FOLLOWING NUMBERS: 1. 1-888-241-2100 2. 1-800- 367-5693 3. 1-877- 427-4088 NOTE: PROVIDE EVIDENCE/PROOF OF THE ILLEGAL ACTIVITIES ( ie. receipts of payments made, bank money transfers, emails, letters, contracts, advertising copy, pictures or video of activities).

08

News Feature/Mecha-Manny

DECEMBER 2014

calgary • edmonton • red deer • leduc • grande prairie • drumheller • lethbridge • medicine hat • brooks • high river • fort mcmurray • drayton • fox creek • regina • banff • canmore

MAKIALAM Ni Kiko Ibarra

“Happy Holidays ba o Merry Christmas?”

Sa ating paninirahan dito sa Canada ay hindi maitatanggi na ating naririnig ang mga ganitong pagbati marahil dala ng iba’t ibang kultura na nag-uumpugan sa iisang lipunan na ating ginagalawan. Pero ano nga ba talaga ang tamang pananaw sa usapin ng pagbati sa kapwa sa panahon ng kapaskuhan?

Kanya- kanya tayong may opinyon bagamat sa pangkalahatang pananaw ng ating lahing pinagmulan, tumutugma ba na kahit ano na lang?

Mabuti pa yata na noong unang panahon higit na malinaw ang pakahulugan ng Pasko, hindi pa halos uso noon ang maraming holidays at ang komersiyalisasyon nito. Bilang isang nagkakaisang lahing Kristiyanong Filipino na may matatag na pananalig sa Diyos,tumutugma lamang na higit nating gamitin ang tumbok na kataga sa ating pagbati sa kapwa at ito ay ang “Merry Christmas o Maligayang Pasko”.

Ilan sa atin ay hindi naniniwala sa petsa ng kapanganakan ni Hesus bagamat ang mahalaga rito ay ang ating paniniwala at pananalig na ang

Pasko ay si Hesus- ang paggunita ng kanyang kaarawan. Tayong lahat ay magsaya at magdiwang dahil ini-ugnay Niya tayong muli sa Diyos Ama na lumalang ng lahat. Ang Kanyang kapanganakan ay isang magandang balita para sa lahat .Siya ay Diyos na nagkatawang tao, nabuhay upang mamatay alang-alang sa ating likas na kasalanan.

Siya ay huwaran ng isang mabuting pagkatao, tunay na daan ng ating buhay ispirituwal at gabay sa pang-araw-araw na pamumuhay.

Sa modernong lipunan ngayon, kahit uso na si Santa Claus, bilihan ng pagkarami-raming mga regalo para sa mga inaanak at mga kaanak, pagbabakasyon sa ibang lugar at paghahanda ng maraming pagkain sa Noche Buena, huwag nating kalimutan na ang Diyos na si Hesus ang dahilan kung bakit may Pasko. Ating alalahanin na ang diwa nito ay ang pagmamahalan at pagbibigayan ng bawat isa at ang pagmamahal ng Diyos Ama sa atin.

Hindi lahat ay nagtutulak ng kabutihan sa sarili

at kapwa. Huwag nating ilayo ang ating pagkatao kay Hesus. Sa Kanya tayo makakahanap ng tamang kahulugan, katuparan, katiwasayan at kaginhawaan sa buhay. At marami sa atin ang magpapatotoo nito.

Sabi ng isang awitin, “ Tayo ay ilaw sa madilim na daan, pagkakapit- bisig lalong higpitan, dumaan man sa malakas na alon, lahat tayo ay makakaahon.”Kabayan, kahit hindi natin kakilala, kung kaya nating tumulong, sige lang,ang pagtupad ng mabuti ay nakakalugod . At huwag ng maghangad ng kapalit.

NItong Pasko paunlarin natin ang kapayapaan sa sarili at huwag manatiling nakatali sa materyalismo kundi pahalagahan ang ispirituwal na buhay. Ang kaganapan ng kapayapaan ay makakamit sa kaparaanang pagwawasto sa sarili kung meron mang dapat iwasto, makipagbati at magpatawad sa mga kagalit. Ang Diyos nga nagpapatawad tayo pa kaya ang hindi pwedeng magpatawad?

Muli, “Merry Christmas kabayan! At sumainyo ang kapayapaan!”

continued from page 06

As gas prices fell, Alberta takes action to control spending work.

The Government of Alberta is also taking action to control spending for the remainder of this fiscal year through cost containment measures.

A number of actions are being taken to control spending in three main areas: payroll/staffing costs, procurement of goods and services and Grants/discretionary spending.

Effective immediately, a hiring restraint initiative has been implemented.

The intent is to limit any growth in overall staffing costs. Hiring may

still occur for positions that are critical to government operations or provide frontline services to Albertans.

These will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis with Deputy Ministers required to review and approve recruitment to all positions. Public sector compensation is the largest driver of government expense, accounting for $22.5 billion in direct and indirect spending last fiscal year.

Spending also on goods and services is to be limited, wherever

Sampung Salita

Why your vehicle needs a Wheel Alignment

Pagbati -greetings

By Manuel Perez

Maligayang Pasko Why the wheel alignment needs -Merry Christmas to be done. The wheel alignment needs to be done because over time the wheel angles change. This happens as a result of deforming and wear of various Nag-uumpugan rubber bushings in the vehicle suspension and sagging -collide of the springs. Besides that, the wheel alignment needs to be checked after hitting large potholes and curbs, Pananaw as well as after accidents. The wheel alignment also needs to be done after replacement any of the major -Perception suspension or steering components. Similarly, it should be done after lowering or rising the suspension.

Uso -Trend

What are the symptoms of improper wheel alignment?

Pananalig – the steering wheel is off center when driving straight -Faith – the vehicle pulls to one side when driving on a Paniniwala straight and level road -Belief – the vehicle doesn’t hold the road well, feels unstable, wanders from side to side Tumbok -Focus – tires screeching when turning – tires wear unevenly Kapanganakan -Birth How often should the wheel alignment be done? For most cars, there is no specific requirements. Your Petsa mechanic will typically recommend doing the wheel alignment every two-three years or 30,000 km. Often, -Date the wheel alignment is recommended when new tires are installed. The alignment should be done more often if your car has wider tires or if it’s a sporty car.

What are the benefits of doing the wheel alignment?

Your tires as well as suspension and steering components will last longer and your vehicle will handle better. You might notice that after the wheel alignment, the car holds the road better and feels more stable. Again, this is even more noticeable if you have a sporty car or wider tires.

possible, to those required to meet critical operational requirements or legal commitments.

While, any discretionary grants, travel, training and other related costs are to be limited across government unless they are required to meet critical operational requirements or legal commitments.

Agencies, Boards and Commissions along with the SUCH sector (Schools, Universities, Colleges and Health Authorities) will also be asked to implement similar cost containment measures.

www.diaryofilipino.com | diaryofilipino@gmail.com | Calgary 403.708.7191 | Edmonton 780.800.9792

Maligayang Pasko at Manigong Bagong Taon!

速 Registered trademarks of The Bank of Nova Scotia.

GO TO OUR

FACEBOOK FANPAGE FOR MORE

PHOTOS

PinoyTV Special Channel 89 Shaw TV

Tuesdays 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM Wednesdays 5:00PM - 5:30 PM

Radio Pinoy 94.7 FM Calgary

Schedule : Sundays

11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

12

DECEMBER 2014

Main Ingredient

calgary • edmonton • red deer • leduc • grande prairie • drumheller • lethbridge • medicine hat • brooks • high river • fort mcmurray • drayton • fox creek • regina • banff • canmore

The Main Ingredient Featured Chef:

Joel Garcia

By Marietta Pangan-Dutkoski

Savoury Entree: PRAWN THERMIDOR

Savoury Entree: Crepe PRAWN Salad

Ingredients: 3 pcs medium prawns, deveined 1 Tablespoon Butter; 1 Tablespoon White Onion, minced 1 Tablespoon Green Bell Pepper, diced 1 Tablespoon Red Bell Pepper, diced 1Tablespoon Mushrooms; 1 teaspoon English Mustard 1 Tablespoon White Wine; Salt and pepper to taste White Sauce: 3 Tablespoons Butter; 3 Tablespoons Flour 3 Tablespoons Milk; 1 Tablespoon White Wine Side Dishes Mashed Potatoes; Asparagus; Gravy; Carrots; Paprika

Ingredients: 3 pieces Prawns, deveined; 1/4 cup Mixed Greens 2 teaspoons Tomatoes, julienne; 2 tspns Cucumber, julienne 2 Tablespoons Feta Cheese Dressing; Roamaine Lettuce Balsamic Vinegar CREPE: 1/4 cup + 1 Tablespoon Flour 1/3 cup Fresh Milk; 1/4 cup Water 1Tablespoon + 1 teaspoon Oil; 1 piece Egg

Mise en place 1. Prepare water for blanching 2. Blanch prawns for 1 minute 3. Using a sharp paring knife, carefully make a cut for the back. Remove the meat, leaving shells intact. Set Aside 4. Blanch Asparagus and Carrots, Set Aside 5. Prepare white sauce, gravy and mashed potato. Set Aside

The Main Ingredient is so proud to feature for our Christmas 2014 episode, the back to back grand winner of Alberta Wide Real Taste Cook and McCormick Online Cook Off Contests, held in July and August, respectively, Chef Joel Garcia and his creations.

Chef Joel is a protege of the late Chef Joel Cruz who showed him the way to his culinary journey which started in the Philippines.

Chef Joel’s interest in cooking as early as 7 using an improvised pot where he started honing his skills and talents. He originated from “Pampanga” the region which is hailed as mecca of Philippine traditional comfort foods and delicious cuisines.

The youngest son of all 4 boys, offsprings of Mr. Rosendo and Mrs. Rosita Garcia. He became kitchen helper in several food establishments after his father passing, to help the family financially when his mom shouldered the sole responsibility as bread winner. Chef Joel also maintains scholarships all through out high school to finish secondary education.

After learning the trade and following a friend’s advice, he started working in Manila. Here, he was often invited to private functions, celebrities events and was even featured in a television cooking segment.

Chef Joel also tried his fate overseas for the first time and landed a job in the Caribbean, at the Grand Cayman Island for couple of years.

He went back to the Philippines after and re-hired from the former company he formerly worked and picked up what he left off for few more years. Finally, Chef Joel decided to try working in another foreign country, this time he decided to go to Canada. In 2008, Chef Joel arrived in Calgary and worked in different restaurants. He is currently employed at Austin Bar and Grill at Elbow Drive near Anderson Road, SW Calgary.

Although has achieved several successes in life, our featured chef remains humble and ready to take on more to enhance further his skills and experience. He is looking forward to widen his horizon in the culinary world, if given the opportunity.

PROCEDURE 1. Preheat a pan over a medium heat 2. Add butter and, sauté onions until soft.

3. Add bell peppers, mushroom and prawns 4. Add mustard and deglazed with white wine 5. Season with salt and pepper 6. Pour over white sauce. Simmer for a minute 7. In another pan, saute carrots and asparagus with butter.

8. Add salt pepper as desired.

9. Serve Hot Yield: 3 Servings Prep/Cooking Time: 30 minutes

PHOTOS BY MARK DUTKOSKI

December 2014

Mise en Place CREPE: 1. Mix all ingredients until smooth, no lumps. Set aside for 30 minutes in the cooler.

2. Over a medium heat, using crepe pan brushed with small amount of oil, pour over crepe batter just enough to coat a thin layer.

3. Cook for one minute. Set aside.

PRAWN 1. Sauté garlic in olive oil until golden brown.

2. Add prawn and paprika 3. Season with salt and pepper PROCEDURE: 1. Toss mix greens, tomatoes, cucumber with feta cheese dressings.

2. Assemble the crepe by layering lettuce, mixed greens and top with prawns.

3. Roll and cut into half.

4. Over a medium heat, deglaze balsamic vinegar over salad.

5. Serve immediately.

Yield: 3 Servings Preparation/Cooking Time: 45 minutes

MORE RECIPES ONLINE

Sopa De Mariscos

Scampi Pallermo

www.diaryofilipino.com | diaryofilipino@gmail.com | Calgary 403.708.7191 | Edmonton 780.800.9792

From the Readers

DECEMBER 2014

13

calgary • edmonton • red deer • leduc • grande prairie • drumheller • lethbridge • medicine hat • brooks • high river • fort mcmurray • drayton • fox creek • regina • banff • canmore

MadameKC “Ang tsismis ay gingawa ng taong galit sa iyo, kinakalat ng mga taong loko-loko at pinaniniwalaan ng mga taong makikitid ang ulo” Dear Madame KC, Nais ko sanang ibahagi sa inyo ang kuwento ng aking buhay. Tubong Visaya po ako at dahil sa kahirapan sa buhay at maagang naulila, highschool lang ang natapos ko. Maaga po akong natutong magbanat ng buto para buhayin at mapag-aral ko ang aking mga kapatid.

Minsan din po akong nangarap, yon po ay ang makapag-abroad at Dear Lady XOXO, Ibabalik ko ang tanong sa iyo, tama nga ba na iwan mo ang mabuti mong asawa para lamang sa mga taong wala naman naitulong sa iyo?

Sa mundong ito hindi mo maiiwasan

makaahon sa hirap.

Ngunit hindi po kayo makakapaniwala, natupad po iyon.

Nakilala ko si James, parang “fairytale” po kung baga. Naging penpal ko sya at dinalaw niya ako sa Pilipinas. Pinakasalan niya ako para makarating dito.

Naging maganda at maayos ang aming pagsasama dahil napakabait po niya Madame. Kaya sinuklian ko naman din ng pagmamahal at pag-aaruga. Apat na taon na rin kaming

nagsasama. Nagsikap akong magtrabaho at tinulungan ako ni James na mapag-aral ko ang aking mga kapatid. Sa awa naman ng diyos ay nakapagtapos na rin po ang aking mga kapatid at maganda na rin ang kanilang buhay.

makatagpo ng mga taong gugustuhin at aayawan ka. Ang kuwento ng buhay mo ay para ngang isang fairytale,

ng iyong asawa, kung kayo ay nagsasama ng matiwasay huwag mong hayaan buwagin ng sino man ang inyong pagsasama.

pero ang happy ending ay nakasalalay sa iyong tamang desisyon.

Ang mga pamimintang ng mga tao sa iyo ay puro salita lamang. Bagama’t ito ay masakit ngunit kung alam mo sa

Mabuti ang kalooban

Madame KC, hindi po ako nagpakilala sa inyo dahil ang problema ko po ay ang mga taong mga nasa paligid ko(mga kapwa Pilipino dito). Kung anu-anong panlalait at pamimintas ang

sinasabi nila sa akin.

Kadalasan pa ay pinagtatawanan at pinariringgan ng di magagandang salita.

Kagaya ng gold digger, user, trying hard, basura, mukhang katulong, feeling maganda at kung anu-ano pa. Bawat kilos ko ay binabantayan nila. Pero tao rin akong marunong masaktan. Pakiramdam ko ay sumosobra na sila.

lamang sa Visayas.

Baka sakaling mabago ang tingin nila sa akin at maging maganda ang pakikitungo nila sa akin.

Totoo na si James ang naging tulay ng aking mga pangarap.

At tinatanaw kong malaking utang na loob ito kay James.

Sa puso at isipan ko, alam kong walang katotohanan ang kanilang pangbibintang. Dahil mahal na mahal ko ang aking Minsan ay inisip kong asawa. Sa kanya ko iwan ko na lang si lamang naramdaman James at bumalik na ang tunay na pagpuso’t isipan wala itong katotohan hindi ka dapat maapektuhan.

Kung iiwan mo si James para lamang manahimik ang mga makakating dila sa iyong paligid, ay nagkakamali ka. Ito ang magiging patunay na

ika’y talunan at pagtanggap sa lahat ng mga pamimintas na pinataw nila sa iyo.

Huwag kang susuko sa iyong mga problema. Para sa ikaluluwag ng iyong kalooban, matuto kang magpatawad.

mamahal at respeto bilang isang tao.

Tanong ko lang po sa inyo, tama bang iwan ko si James para sa katahimikan ng lahat? Tama bang isakripisyo ko ang pag-ibig ko para sa aking asawa? Sana po ay matulungan niyo ako. Maraming-maraming salamat.

Gumagalang, Lady XOXO

Mahirap man itong gawin ngunit sa tulong ng ating Panginoon, wala itong imposible.

Madame KC

Christmas is forever, not for just one day, for loving, sharing, giving, are not to put away like bells and lights and tinsel, in some box upon a shelf.

The good you do for others is good you do for yourself...

Send your email to madamekc@hotmail.com

Caution - Slippery Footing Conditions shared by Mimi Gammuac

www.diaryofilipino.com | diaryofilipino@gmail.com | Calgary 403.708.7191 | Edmonton 780.800.9792

There are many near miss slips over the last couple weeks as the weather started to freeze thaw.

This so called freeze thaw weather cycles have created icy walking surfaces and extremely slippery footing conditions. Here’s some quick tips as precaution.

More information will be included with the January-February Safety Theme.

• Watch the walking surface in front of you and if possible take a path that’s clear of ice.

• Think about your next step • Brace yourself with three points of contact when exiting or entering vehicles.

• Caution when entering buildings, entrances may be wet creating a slippery floor.

14

DECEMBER 2014 calgary • edmonton • red deer • leduc • grande prairie • drumheller • lethbridge • medicine hat • brooks • high river • fort mcmurray • drayton • fox creek • regina • banff • canmore

CCIS Christmas Celebration with Temporary Foreign Workers

By Len Chan

Special guest MLA Teresa Woo-Paw

Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS) celebrated Christmas with temporary foreign worker last December 14 at Kerby Seniors Centre 1133 7th Avenue SW from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm. This celebration was called Annual TFW Christmas Party with guest speakers MLA Theresa Woo-Paw of Calgary-Mackay also know as associate minister of Asia-Pacific Relations and Scotiabank Regional Development Manager on Multicultural Banking in Prairie Region Josephine Pon and CCIS CEO Fariborz Birjandian.

CCIS is a non-profit organization which provides settlement and integration services to immigrants and refugees

in Southern Alberta which includes Calgary.

Among its 70 programs is the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFW) headed by Jessica Juen.

It is a support services program that acts as bridge between TFWs, the Canadian community and employers by providing orientation and information about employment rights and responsibilities, pathways to becoming Permanent Residents, new immigration laws and regulations and different services available for temporary workers.

But Immigrants, temporary and permanents, with their families attended the event with most of them from Philippines,

Latin America, Africa, and South Asia as their country of origin. The event started with registration where all attendees received tickets for Christmas raffle draws. Catered food and appetizing desserts teased the palate of the attendees. There were games prepared even for the youngsters like face painting, lots of solo singing and dancing for entertainment.

The dance floor was opened by an impromptu zumba demo lesson headed by volunteer zumba instructors like Selina “Beng” Cruz, Tata Delos Reyes, and Maria “Beng” Moreno. The event ended with a thank you note from the organizers.

A L B E R T A Balikbayan Boxes Money Remittances Air Parcel Travel & Tours

Ipadama ang Pagmamahal ngayong Pasko

Open 7 days a Week

Mon. to Sat. = 9:00am to 6:00pm Sun. = 10:00am to 4:00pm DROP OFF PRICE PICK UP

Manila Suburbs Luzon 1 Luzon 2 Visayas Mindanao

$50.00 $55.00 $60.00 $65.00 $70.00 $80.00

$60.00 $65.00 $70.00 $75.00 $80.00 $90.00

We move household items to the Philippines FREE Box Replacement Hiring Agents Customer Loyalty Reward For After Office Pick Up Pls. Call 403.399.2912 or 403.399.2553 Weekly Direct Shipping from Calgary to the Philippines

403.873.6739, 403.243.2912, 403.232.6712 Suite 328-39th Ave.SE Calgary AB T2G 1X6 Email: forexcalgary@forex-orientalcargo.com Website: www.forex-orientalcargo.com

Toll Free: 1.866.503.6739 We accept Debit/Visa/Mastercard

We will ‘BEAT’ our Competitor’s Prices & Promos!

www.diaryofilipino.com | diaryofilipino@gmail.com | Calgary 403.708.7191 | Edmonton 780.800.9792

Metaphors from a Priest

DECEMBER 2014

15

calgary • edmonton • red deer • leduc • grande prairie • drumheller • lethbridge • medicine hat • brooks • high river • fort mcmurray • drayton • fox creek • regina • banff • canmore

The other side of Christmas

By Fr. Edmund F. Vargas

As Christmas approaches, let us share the giftedness of our life that has been redeemed by God’s becoming human in Jesus Christ. We have to realize that this period of the year that is considered the happiest can also be the lowest point for a growing number of people. Those of us who are struggling with difficulties and challenges at this time of the year understand that the approach of the Christmas season can make our life more stressful or even more painful.

events and painful decisions for a lot of people involved in our history of salvation.

The death of the prophets of the Old Testament, the martyrdom of John the Baptist and the slaughter of the Holy Innocents are also embroiled in the complicated drama of God’s becoming human in Jesus Christ.

As we begin to partake of the happiness of togetherness in family and friendship during this season, let us also remember those who are faced with hatred, indifference and anger in their relationships. As we enjoy bounty of food and drink in the luxury of our homes during this happy period of The period preceding the first Christ- the year, let us also remember those who mas some two thousand years ago was have nothing to eat or have nowhere to lay marked with challenges and difficulties, their heads for their needed sleep. especially for Mary who had to keep things in her heart as the mysteries of our As Christmas approaches, let us re-learn to redemption enfolded before her very eyes welcome Christ not only in our hearts but and for Joseph who had to take her as her also in the lives of others, especially those wife to protect her from the law. The first who are struggling to gain their human Christmas was marked with poverty and dignity in the midst of poverty, sickness deprivation. The Savior had to be born and need for love and comfort. The joy of in manger because he had nowhere to Christmas is rooted in sharing Christ’s love lay his head. The period of preparation and presence with others in community. for Christ’s birth was marked with repen- The birth of the Emmanuel, which means tance and renewal, as exemplified by the God is with us, highlights the continuaustere lifestyle of John the Baptist. ing presence of God in our world through the life we live as followers of Christ. May The Christmas story is not entirely a our Eucharistic celebration strengthen us pleasant one. The story that changed our in our witness to Christ’s presence in our human history is also made up of violent midst.

Attracting immigrants with the skills and talents Alberta needs is an important part of addressing labour pressures – now and in the future.

“Overview of Immigration to Alberta.” Government of Alberta Enterprise and Advanced Education. n.p. n.d. Web. June 2013.

Respond to Alberta’s need for immigrants.

Become a Regulated Immigration Consultant Full-time | Part-time | Online Apply online at www.ashtoncollege.com or contact a program adviser at (604) 899-0803.

Ashton College | Vancouver, BC 604 899 0803 | 1 866 759 6006 w w w. a s hto n co l l e g e. co m

EVELYN ROBERTSON Real Estate Associate

MASTER SALES AWARD

Thinking of Buying or Selling Your Home?

Call Evelyn Robertson

We sell Philippine made beauty products: Maxipeel, Placenta, Ponds, Eskinol, etc.

Other Products: Cargo Boxes, Dry & Frozen products, Phone cards, GMA TV Pinoy Distributor, Bakery Products.

Tel: (403) 984-8100 12-3803 26th Ave SW, Calgary, AB T3A 6V7 continued from page 03

IS YOUR HEART READY FOR CHRISTMAS ? . In such environment opposite to my hometown where there is no winter the snowfalls, the pine trees covered all over with snow reminds me of the very first “silent Night” and Holy Night” songs In here winter greets and leads me slowly and gently further into advent, to the expected one--- the child in the cave, that child who is GOD. It is not difficult for me to imagine the snow and ice trees and animals share in my expectations. I am now

in a place where I can feel the stillness and holiness of the Christmas season. It makes very real for me the words of the Christmas antiphons “When the night was still,our Almighty word leapt down from heaven .“ My mind turns to that HOLY NIGHT which is always there though it happened almost thousand years ago.

Throughout This beautiful Christmas season I pray that the infant Jesus Christ might touch your heart , mind and soul with His

Cell: (403) 874-9160 Store Hours: Mon & Tues: Wed & Sat: Thursday: Sunday:

Bus: (403) 278-8899 Email: e.robertson@shaw.ca

3205-380 Canyon Meadows Drive SE, Calgary, AB T2J 7C3

11am-8pm 10am-8pm 11am-9pm 11am-7pm

tiny hands and open them to his own beauty to the realization of his need for you in HIS body, that you might begin to be Christcentered . Have deep love of humanity. Enrich GOD with one hand and touch one fellow human being with the other and we become Cruciform and enter into a new dimension of faith and prayer and with that help us to have love and to enlarge our heart with kindness and generosity.

Every Christmas it is always a season of many splendored things in life.

With music in the air beneath the soft light of a silvery moon feel the splendor, the stillness , the

MaxWell - Canyon Creek An Independent Member Broker

holiness and the expectations of joy and peace with your family, friends and fellowmen. Let us give love, share and enjoy the love of Jesus for all of us.

It can be a wonderful gift to Jesus when our heart is ready and full blown out for everybody. Why is it then, that my heart wonders if it is ready to be a cradle for a child? So, this Christmas let us go together to kneel at the crib of a child to receive the heart of a child. Let us live to His great love for us and live to it accordingly. How ready is your heart this Christmas ? Wishing you all “A BLISSFUL MERRY CHRISTMAS AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR”!

EXCLUSIVE 2014 Promotion

Introducing “THE BUSINESS CLASSIFIED” Code: BCC Dimension: 3”x2” Print Area: Centerfold Contact: Marietta (403)708-7191

s nth mo @ 3 r s E fo onth ce” TIS m ri VER eive 3 ular p D g “A rec e r F & OF 50%

AB + SK

www.diaryofilipino.com | diaryofilipino@gmail.com | Calgary 403.708.7191 | Edmonton 780.800.9792

16

Entertainment WORD

CHRISTMAS BIRTH FAITH DATE KAPANGANAKAN GREETINGS More thoughts for less NAGUUMPUGAN talk MERRY PANANAW calgary • edmonton • red deer • leduc • grande prairie • drumheller • lethbridge • medicine hat • brooks • high river • fort mcmurray •PANANALIG drayton • fox creek • regina • banff • canmore PERCEPTION PASKO TUMBOK TREND

DECEMBER 2014

JUAN more HIRIT EYEBOL Juan: Pare excited ako ngayong araw kasi may ka-EYEBOL ako! Ano kaya hitsura nya? May kahawig daw syang celebrity at palayaw daw nya “SHA”.

Pedro: Jackpot ka Pre baka si Shaina Magdayao o Sharon Cuneta (After 3 hours....)

Pedro: Ano Preng Juan, kumusta ka eyebol mo, sino kahawig Shaina o Sharon?

Juan: Dioni-SHA!!!! pre Dioni-SHA!!!!!

TINAPAY: Pedro: Pareng Juan, amoy kang tinapay Juan: Talaga? anong klase tasty o cheese bread?

Pedro: “PUTOK”

SEARCH

PROBLEMA: Pedro: Pareng Juan bakit sambakolmukha mo?

Juan: Ang dami kong problema pare Pedro: easy ka lang pre, wag mong iispin yon. Tingnan mo ako.

Juan: Pare naman, ang dami dami ko na ngang problema, wag mo nang dagdagan!

SOFTDRINK Pedro: Pare kung matalino ka, ilang litres meron ang Coke 2000!

Juan: Dali naman nyan, 4 Pedro ha? bakit?

Juan: Asus, di ba litre C, litre O, litre K at litr E! hehehe talino ko diba?

Horoscope ARIES

You should be on cloud nine today, Aries. As evening sets in, however, things might get a little too heavy for your comfort. People will have had enough of your gossip by then, so give it a rest. Kick back and plan for the next few days. You might also want to take a more serious approach to your romantic commitments by confirming your feelings about your partner now.

CANCER

Your thoughts may be scattered and frantic early in the day, Cancer, but things should settle down by evening. Your emotions will be more stable and you will be much more disciplined about tasks that need completion. Make a plan for the next few days and be practical about what you can accomplish. Don’t set yourself up for failure by biting off more than you can chew.

LIBRA

Today may be a rough day in which you find it hard to make a decision about anything. Refrain from making any major moves regarding finances or real estate.

Concentrate on you and the answers will come from within. Be realistic and practical when it comes to your emotions. You may find it hard to connect with someone tonight, so stick close to home and focus inward.

Bring your thoughts down to Earth, Capricorn, especially later tonight. You may be flip-flopping through the day like a fish out of water, but suddenly things start to fall into place at sundown. You will find that people are much more caring and sensitive to your mood later this evening. Spend it at home with someone you love. Ground yourself and plan for the upcoming week.

CAPRI CORN

TAURUS

Lie low during the day and try not to get caught up in the frivolous verbiage that dominates the waking hours. After sundown, feel free to speak your mind. You may notice that there is a sober tone and restrictive sensation today that leaves you feeling like you will never be able to break free from your current situation. Don’t get caught in this negative mindset.

LEO

Communicate your feelings early in the day, because by evening you might feel too restricted to want to socialize with anyone.

Use this disciplined, sober tone to get a realistic perspective on the issues at hand.

You’ll have a stable, practical attitude for dealing with any situation. Take a slow, well-calculated approach in order to overcome whatever hurdle is in your way.

GEMINI

Let your fun-loving nature come out to play today, Gemini. As the day progresses, the clouds are likely to move in. There may be a more restrictive tone to your emotions that could make it difficult to express how you really feel. Focus your attention inward and realize that you can maintain a high level of self-esteem without having to prove anything.

VIRGO

Things will get much easier and more controlled as the day progresses, Virgo.

People’s superficial attitudes and idle chatter will give way to more realistic and deepseated conversations as the evening hours draw near. You will find that it’s much easier to get to the heart of the issues and be more honest and realistic about your emotions tonight. Assess your feelings with a practical perspective.

SAGIT TARIUS SCORPIO Today may be a rough day in which you find it hard to make a decision about anything.

Refrain from making any major moves regarding finances or real estate. Concentrate on you and the answers will come from within.

Be realistic and practical when it comes to your emotions. You may find it hard to connect with someone tonight, so stick close to home and focus inward.

AQUA RIUS

The earlier portion of the day is apt to flow much more smoothly than the later part, Aquarius. You should get things solidified right off the bat, if possible. Things will be a bit more relaxed and free flowing in the morning, but become a bit more restrictive as the evening sets in. Don’t go to bed without making a plan for what you want to accomplish over the next few days.

Get the party started early in the day, Sagittarius. You may be running from task to task, but this is OK. You have the ability to get a lot done by multitasking and keeping things light. As the day progresses, however, there will be a veil of restriction that slowly settles over your mood. You may find it harder to communicate your thoughts than it was earlier in the day.

PISCES

This may be a frenzied day for you, Pisces, but it’s likely to settle down as evening sets in. It will be a tender night in which you should stick close to home and get organized. If you have any task that requires discipline, you’re better off waiting until tonight to do it. Things will run much more smoothly then.

www.diaryofilipino.com | diaryofilipino@gmail.com | Calgary 403.708.7191 | Edmonton 780.800.9792

Ymore or Less

DECEMBER 2014 More thoughts for less talk

17

calgary • edmonton • red deer • leduc • grande prairie • drumheller • lethbridge • medicine hat • brooks • high river • fort mcmurray • drayton • fox creek • regina • banff • canmore

Tires on the roof.

By Ymor H. (aka Romy Honorio)

One Saturday night while I was attending a fellowship gathering of friends, one couple was sharing about their holiday in the Philippines. One story was about their child’s insightful observation.

James, while staying at his grandparents’ place easily learned and came to understand “Mabisin, innapoy and manok” (hungry, rice and chicken).

Other kids were able to relate easily with James in spite of the language barrier.

The last two days of their holiday were very memorable. Minutes away from the airport James pointed to his left and asked his mom why some of the dwellings along the highway have tires on top

of the roofs. James had difficulty understanding his mom’s explanation.

As we listened to James’ story of inquisitiveness, his innocent question struck a chord with all of us. For Canadians, there is only one use for tires. In the Philippines, spare tires have many uses. Pinoy ingenuity is commendable and unique. I even had a chance to wear sandals made of spare tires during my elementary school days.

Our discussion shifted to material possessions like cars, electronics and houses. One member of the group joked,” any house size is ok as long as there are no spare tires on the roof.”

Then one from the corner quipped, “That’s something

James would understand.

Like a transformer toy, a house can be transformed into a car and vice versa.

Technically people now a day are transforming their vehicles into a home.

The car is now an office, a place to fix hair, top up makeup, eat breakfast, and communicate. For many years our old clunker caravan was our refuge during camping season. Why need a tent when you have a van with removable seats?

I suppose James in the near future will realize that, in reality, a house with tires over the roof is no different than a house with no tires in terms of purpose. As the song “A house is not a home” vividly portrays:

A chair is still a chair Even when there’s no one sitting there But a chair is not a house And a house is not a home When there’s no one there to hold you tight And no one there you can kiss goodnight

Thud...ahhhhhhhhhh! / Ahhhhhhhhhh...thud!

By Ymor H.

Circa ‘60s in the Philippines.

The front window of our house was two meters above the gravel ground.

Our house was my play pen when my mother was doing her daily chores. With nothing new and unusual around the house to wreck I ended up standing behind the window. Watching horse drawn carts, tricycles and people passing by was a temporary fix for my boredom.

To make the long story short, my five-yearold-restless arms and legs climbed me out of the window. “Thud..... ahhhhhhhhhh!” My mother heard my groaning and ran outside to my rescue. No broken bones, no scratches and only a bump on my head. I guessed my big butt saved me.

A fall from low altitude results to a “Thud”.....then a long “Ahhhhhhhhhh”. A fall from a higher window will result to a long “Ahhhhhhhhhh” then a “Thud....” In this life all of us will experience the reality of “falling” (agony, frustrations, loss, problems, etc...) from high and low altitudes or degrees. This Christmas a number of us will fall into a trap of materialism, broken relationships, temptation and all kinds of ill wills.

There is no escaping from the Thud....ahhhhhhhhh and ahhhhhhhh...thud in life! No amount of Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Facebook, Twitter, Google, and good works can save us from falling. The weight of our unhealthy desires will pull us down real hard. We can’t do anything about it.

Romy Photo

One option left, though, is to reflect why we celebrate Yuletide and heed the wisdom of old. Having this in mind and receiving it wholeheartedly will give us peace and joy for this season. What is this gift from? “For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son (the Gift), that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16).

Ahhhhhhhhhh...what a relief from this season’s “Thud!”

Romy Photo

The Star over Us...

Tires on the roof in Manila (Globalvoicesonline.org)

Surprisingly, the following morning I saw my neighbor’s garage roof with tires on it. Then I was reminded of Jesus birth in a plain and simple manger in the midst of winter - no tire on the roof, no queen size bed,

Tires on the garage roof in Calgary

no portable heater and no hot chocolate – but overflowing with heavenly songs and praises (“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men! Luke 2:14)

Minutes after breakfast it dawn on us

“MITOYO” recognized and given a My wife and I watched The Voice of the Philippines 2013 Back to Back Concert (Mitoy Yonting, Klarisse De Guzman, Marion Aunor and Darren Espanto) at Century Casino on November 23rd. The show proved once again that Pinoys are pros at singing and stage performance.

Credit is due to the organizer/s for showcasing our local Pinoy talents as front performers (Ivy Espiritu, Deuce Wild, Simone Amorado, Nonie Perez and etc...). The master of ceremonies (Ochelle Ugaddan and Gerard Feliciano) were great. A number of business sponsors were

plague of appreciation.

There are couple of observations I’s like to point out, though.

The featured artists’ performances turned into a Selfie session. It paid off nicely.

We the audience want to be associated with something beautiful and famous. A winwin situation for both singers and fans!

One thing memorably funny was Mitoy’s narrative of one sector of the audience. One side was “Darrenatics” (Darren Espanto’s fans) and the other side was “Mitoyo!” (Mitoy’s fans daw!). His observation clearly picture two

that no matter what kind of house we have – with tires on the roof or lifetime warrantee roofing system – if there is no one to share our love, care, hope and joy then a house is for naught.

kinds of people in the audience. One group was contented with the musical performance.

The other group was really intentional to capture a moment worthy of FB material.

The songs and performances were great, running over time like any other Pinoy function. After the last song the concert place has turned into a market place for various sponsors. Pinoy nga, eh!

Finally, I wondered if there were any sponsors, promoters or people in the audience really keen on helping our local singers to shine and succeed in their career. Any takers?

www.beingsons.com photo

Roughly 2000 years ago a star appeared in the sky. Its distinct light got the attention of people. It became a celebrity item in the old civilizations. It has thousands of “Facebook” hits. Wise men, shepherds, kings and ordinary folks “tweeted” each other. The appearance of angels with their concert of praises was on “You tube” with millions of views.” The light of the star was their GPS. No wrong turns and recalibrations.

An invitation was emailed from heaven through the prophet: “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel which means God with us” (Matthew 1:23). A follow-up email was sent to explain the purpose of the son’s coming. It reads: “...Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be

in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me (John 17:21). ” A number of lowly people managed to attend the occasion.

Even a number of animals were in the front row seat.

However, very few believed the message. Among them were the wise men from afar. They knew the message was authentic. The URL site was from the Maker of the universe. The wise men left their family, friends and associates back home to seek the light of the world.

Three gifts were brought in - gold, myrrh and incense - for something more valuable. E-Bay and Amazon reported that far more important than the above items was the wise men’s desire to become heirs of the King. When Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Many nerds,

www.diaryofilipino.com | diaryofilipino@gmail.com | Calgary 403.708.7191 | Edmonton 780.800.9792

outcasts and downtrodden responded and clicked the “like”, “accept and “share” icons. Their perspective changed, lifestyle turned 180 degrees. A new life has begun. Isn’t “the way”, “the truth” and “the life” far better that gold, myrrh and incense?

However, even in this age many are still skeptical. They need proof from Instagram and Tumblr. It has to be endorsed by their FB and LinkedIn friends. They need confirmation from Google and Kijiji. They need to physically experience it like the concerts of singing stars who visited Calgary this year.

This Christmas many will focus on “gold, myrrh and incense.” Many believed that more of these will give them significance and satisfaction in life. We are stubborn creatures. One may have all the gold, myrrh and incense from Walmart but is still desperately looking for the truth (our purpose in life).

So the question now is how do you celebrate Christmas? Will you watch another concert? Hang a star (parol) in the front window of your home, exchange gifts with friends and family members? Or maybe attend a church service or mass, and listen to Jesus’ birthday story.

18 18

DECEMBER 2014 DECEMBER 2014

Travel & Adventure

calgary • edmonton • red deer • leduc • grande prairie • drumheller • lethbridge • medicine hat • brooks • high river • fort mcmurray • drayton • fox creek • regina • banff • canmore calgary • edmonton • red deer • leduc • grande prairie • drumheller • lethbridge • medicine hat • brooks • high river • fort mcmurray • drayton • fox creek • regina • banff • canmore

Travel & Adventure

Photos & text by Lito de Jesus

Landing in St. Martin Sint Maarten is a part of the Netherlands. It occupies the southern half of the island and Saint Martin occupies the northern half belongs to the French and collectively called Saint Martin.

History dictates that Christopher Columbus’ voyage to the West Indies in 1493, he spotted the island and named it Isla de San Martin and claimed it as a Spanish territory but he didn’t actually land there but slowly colonized by the Spaniards.

The French and the Dutch on the other hand had a much more interest to the island and wanted to take part on the bounty and they began colonizing it as well. French interest was to establish a settlement between Bermuda and Trinidad and the Dutch wanting to have a halfway point between other colonies.

The Dutch swiftly move to action and created a salt mine operation.

Meanwhile, the British also wanted to take part of the action and started settlement there as well. Between the colonies, a long and ongoing war who would dominate the island gave the Spanish

an opportunity to attack and took a hold of the Dutch colony.

The Spaniards was convinced that there is much to gain had their following could overrule the island.

They were successful on this attempt and driven much of its colonist.

The Dutch tried to win back the island but they failed. 15 years had passed and the Spaniard could no longer find being there profitable, they left the island in mid 1600s The French and the Dutch quickly reestablished their settlement there but realized they could never get settled and to avoid another war they came to an agreement to divide the island in two. Presently the Northern part of the island belongs to the French and the Southern half belongs to the Dutch.

With the newfound lucrative produce in the island such as tobacco, cotton and sugar, the French and the Dutch imported a great number of slaves to work the fields.

The slave population grew in great numbers outnumbering the land owners, they began to rebel over the way

Shops at Philipsburg

A hippie young woman enjoys a quiet moment

Energetic and daring young guest quadding it out.

Jet revving up its engine while onlookers hang on to the fence

Sun worshipper revel the blistering heat at Maho Beach

they were treated and the French abolished slavery in July 1843 and 15 years later the Dutch followed.

While there are distinct differences to the way each governments handles the jurisdictions in this island in the present, there is peace and order

among the inhabitants despite of many cultures and traditions from neighboring countries. There is jovial, friendly and safe atmosphere. The capital city Philipsburg to the south is the center of all trading activities.

Banks and many other international

corporations have their present here as well.

Many merchants from India have established storefront mainly in the jewelry and textile industries; However, Tourism and sun destination is the main industry in St. Martin.

Maho beach at Princess Juliana International Airport is one of the main attraction in the island, not only the warm turquoise Caribbean sea but primarily to see the landing aircrafts in close proximity to the beach only separated by a 2 lane road to the landing strip.

Every 10 minutes,

www.diaryofilipino.com | diaryofilipino@gmail.com | Calgary 403.708.7191 | Edmonton 780.800.9792

huge 747 airplanes hit the runway within about 20 feet from the ground missing the wire link fence within a few feet. The noise was deafening.

Despite the danger and warning signs posted, people dare to stand against the fence to get sandblasted by the aircraft’s turbine engine preparing for take off.

Regrettably, my limited time in St. Martin did not provide enough time to explore more of its arts and culture. Just as I crossed this on my bucket list, I realized I need to put it back and perhaps delve into exploring the villages.

1014_80613N_philippines_10x16_final.pdf

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

1

11/19/14

9:02 AM