Diaryo Filipino February 2016

Buying or Selling a home is a BIG DEAL! Let’s not just jump into it. Let me help you create a PLAN and guide you through the whole process.

217-222 16 Ave., NE Calgary, Alberta

Sellers’ and buyers’ satisfaction is my goal.

I serve my clients beyond their expectations.

I’ll provide you a CONFIDENTIAL and FREE professional real estate Advice.

Jean Diestro

“Whatever it takes, I will get the job done!”

Realtor

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

FEB. 15 - MAR. 15, 2016 VOLUME 6 ISSUE 10

M

Ed Rowen Salar

Cheryl Posadas-Guinsatao

We’ve got the right mortgage for you

EDITOR IN-CHIEF

Together we can identify the home financing solution that meets your needs.

Jennifer Uminga

Mobile Mortgage Specialist Calgary and Area

403-923-2946

jennifer.uminga@td.com mms.tdcanadatrust.com/jennifer.uminga

Free Home Evaluation... Free Sellers’ and Buyers’ Orientation

Changes in Canada’s Immigration 2016

P22

TD Canada Trust

mobile: 403.383.7001 fax: 403.592.9142 email: diestroj@gmail.com

A Statistics Canada reports that international migration remains the principal source of population growth in census metropolitan areas (CMAs), particularly in Western Canada cities of Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton and Saskatoon. This means that Canada’s annual rate of immigration has been around 250,000 new permanent residents per year and represents comfortably less than one percent of the total population yearon-year. Canada’s overall population is estimated to be 35,851,774.

In order to ensure that Canada can take its rightful place as a serious player on

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

the global stage, it needs to grow its population in a managed, thought-out, and sustainable manner that benefits newcomers and Canadians alike.

Below are 10 Proposed Liberal Reforms to Canada’s Immigration System: Double the number of immigration applications allowed for parents and grand-parents sponsorship from 5,000 to 10,000 visas per year.

Double the budget for processing family class immigration applications to reduce wait times Increase points allocation to applicants who have siblings in Canada on their Express Entry application Lift the visa requirement for Mexican travel to Canada.

Eliminate the $1000 Labour Market Impact Assessment fee for families seeking caregivers to care for family members with physical or mental disabilities.

Restoring free access to healthcare for refugee/ asylum seekers pending a decision on their case by the government.

They have pledged to make it easier for interna-

tional students to achieve Canadian Citizenship.

The exact details are not specified, but they have stated they will do this by making adjustments to the Canadian Experience Class program that will ‘remove barriers’ to international students.

Restore the Canadian Citizenship residency time credit for international students in Canada.

Bypass the two year wait period for “conditional permanent residence” for spouses of sponsored individuals.

Restore the maximum age for dependents from 19 to 22, making it easier for immigrants to bring their older children to Canada.

For 2016, here are some of the changes in Canada’s immigration policies started under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

IRCC now not CIC Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is now the name of the Canadian federal department that facilities the arrival of immigrants to Canada, provides protection to refugees, and offers programming

to help newcomers settle in Canada. IRCC also grants citizenship, issues travel documents (such as passports) to Canadians, and promotes multiculturalism. IRCC is used to be known as Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC).

Usage of the new name for this federal government department began soon after PM Justin Trudeau took office in November, 2015.

While the acronym ‘CIC’ continues to be used in some cases, it has become increasingly apparent over the first few months of the present government’s mandate that ‘IRCC’ is preferred in official publications and communications. The addition of the word ‘refugees’ in the official name of the government department reflects the government’s increased focus on humanitarian and refugee immigration to Canada since it’s on a path to accepting 25,000 Syrian refugees by the end of February. Still, the government has made it clear that Canada will maintain an open and welcoming immigration polcontinued on page 4

Rehab Solutions Physiotherapy & Clearview Physical Therapy and Sport Rehabilitation Services:

Physiotherapy Massage Therapy Acupuncture Orthotics

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

We Treat:

Motor Vehicle Accident Work Related Injuries Sports Injuries Joints & Muscle Pain

We Do Direct Billing • No Referral Required 2 Convenient Locations Rehab Solutions • Tel: (403) 253-9444

Suite 310, 10233 Elbow Dr. SW www.rehabsolutionsphysio.com Clearview Physio • Tel: (403) 217-0349 Unit 101, 4306 Richmond Rd. SW www.clearviewphysio.com

2

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

Editorial Cheryl Posadas-Guinsatao EDITOR IN-CHIEF

The 1st Edsa Revolution also known as People Power Revolution on February 22, 1986 in the Philippines has shown me the importance of taking a stand on what I believe for.

In the late President Corazon Aquino’s speech, these words were embedded in my memory, “The nation was awaken by a defeaning shot…” The People Power Revolution was a series of popular demonstrations in the Philippines that began in 1983 and culminated on February 22–25, 1986.

At that time, the people did not remain quiet- they took to the streets, prayed loudly and overthrow a powerful dictator.

With the economic instability particularly in Canada, where ever you look it seems that there’s a certain silence in the air. Its easy to get to downtown anytime now. Buildings in downtown are half used and the sign leases of offices was everywhere. When you go to Service Canada offices many people are there asking for updates or applying for EI. Now to receive EI will take three to six months. The gas prices are lower but the prices of commodity are up due to

Break the Silence “The world suffers a lot. Not because of the violence of bad people, but because of the silence of good people.”

– Unknown the depreciating value of loonie. Christine Straehle, a migration expert at the University of Ottawa, said the low dollar could also be difficult for temporary foreign workers.

“Most of these people work in low- to middle-income jobs. Most people will send $500, maybe $800 per month. And every exchange rate, every worsening of the Canadian dollar in relation to the American dollar will affect the rate of return for the people back home,” she said. Families in Philippines, Somalia, Jamaica could be affected

More than $23 billion was sent from Canada to other countries in 2014, according to the World Bank. About $2 billion of that was transferred directly to the Philippines.

Dilip Ratha, the World Bank’s lead economist on remittances, said that while the impact of Canada’s weakening dollar won’t be felt right away, it has the potential to be significant.

“A fall of, let’s say, 25 per cent in the currency could translate to maybe

a 10-per-cent impact on the remittance flows from Canada to the Philippines.

So, we’re talking about an impact of about $200 million,” Ratha said. Ratha said people in many other countries that rely on remittance money, such as Somalia and Jamaica, could also be affected by the sinking loonie.

Yes, there is a quiet desperation and a taste of fear among the people.

Yet despite of this, the government is focusing on issues that should not be of focal point at this time of recession.

When Minister David Eggen announced the guidelines regarding the gender equality on schools, Archdiocese of Calgary Bishop Frederick Henry protested this and called it Totaliarianism in Alberta.

Instead of dealing with economic problems, I wonder why the provincial government are promoting bills or policies on moral and civil rights subject. It seems it is taking away the attention of the people on what should prioritize at this economic downturn.

Added to this, when PM

diaryofilipino.com

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Trudeau announced of additional increase in the number of refugees for Calgary, as expected a lot of flack came from other people. Those that knew me working in CCIS, I heard lots of complaints and warning that the people who were laid off is beginning to resent the refugees.

If the government is doing something on the flight of the thousands of workers laid off at this time, these complaints will be avoided.

But with no EI for months and no prospect for jobs, no wonder many people are beginning to have negative feelings on the issue of refugees. Though not their fault, refugees are the one taking the flack out of it.

I’ve learned to get in touch with silence within myself and know everything in life has a purpose.

There are no mistakes, no coincidences, all events are blessings given to me to learn. But I witnessed that we as a people need to break our silence in order for those in position to hear our suffering and our hardships. That the voice of the silent majority could only be heard when it was awaken from its convenience.

My father when he learned that I leaned

towards social science and politics, and that I joined rallies as an activist- He advise me to speak and write only when your words are more beautiful than silence. He said that in tough times being positive and merciful to others is more important than ever. That when injustice, poverty and quiet desperation among the people occur, it is imperative for them to break their silence and share their ideas and sentiments constructively.

Making the society fall more into chaos will result in greater destruction.

They said that the right words can break a person’s heart, lift a friend’s spirits, destroy a child’s self-esteem, propel a man into power and bring a fresh smile to a tear drenched face. To harness this power and to use it as a force for good- in life and in the world- is a daily challenge So how to make our voices heard- petitions, writing to our government officials, a demand for public consultation- these are just a few of what we can do. If these did not work, then there is our freedom of assembly. Only then can we raise awareness on what is happening and only then can the government truly hear the sentiment and convictions of the common people.

So let’s break our silence on issues that matters to us. Let’s not forget the power of the silent majority. We have the power.

We have a voice.

S

$1.25

For subscription email us at diaryofilipino@gmail.com

Publishers

Antonio Amorado Manuel Perez Cheryle Posadas-Guinsatao

Editor in-Chief

Cheryle Posadas-Guinsatao

Asst Editor in-Chief

Marietta Pangan-Dutkoski

Writers/Contributors Romeo Honorio Santa Aquino-Posadas Len Chan Lito de Jesus Manuel Perez Charmaine Perez Madame KC Fr. Edmund F. Vargas Kiko Ibarra Precy Atienza Gerine Arroyo Ruel Sarmiento Don Ibarra Marianne Malaca Ron Leoncio Tata Gascon

Graphic Artist/Sketch Pixecolours Media Haus Inc.

Creative Director

Antonio Amorado/PMHI

Photographers

Lito de Jesus / Kaye Ocampo Mark Ancheta / Elizalde Francisco

Main Office 4758 14th St NE Calgary, Alberta

Calgary & Edmonton Areas (403) 708-7191 | (403) 613-1182

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

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.

diaryofilipino.com

3 Are you a Temporary Foreign Worker in Canada?

Feature Article Are you looking for help or advice with your status in Canada?

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

We can HELP! Full Immigration Services: LMIA application, Express Entry, Work/Student Permit, Visitor Record, Temporary Resident Visa, AINP application, Permanent Residence application

Call 403-291-4838 or Email us at immigration@clearport.ca

www.clearport.ca | www.pierlaw.com

Santa Aquino-Posadas WRITER

Blessed are we human beings for having the most important, valuable species living in this world. Our creator gives us the time to live with full of amazing promises and opportunities. A time when the entire universe is open for us to explore and take advantage of living life. We aspire for a rich experience and rewarding lives. We are supposed to taste and savor the essence of a good life, but have you ever thought of what is happening to our life nowadays? We try to live and strive to make life worth livable despite the absurdity and stressful the details of our lives have become. Have you ever thought about the absurdity of so much of what we have that infiltrate our lives, how it leads us to obsession, depression, stress, anger, pain, and endless longing?

Reflect on the following scenarios happening to

Feature Article

What is happening to us? Where are we going? everyone. . . . .

We live in a society that judge its achievement by speed and busyness.

A world that lives in the techno-crazed, fast website communication, online shopping sprees and instant messaging.

We think of financial and personal security, self-recognition and power.

There is breakdown of the old values and rules.

Sometimes insecurity rapes us. Why go on living when there is nothing left to live for anymore. It seems that the fast pace, the immediacy, and life pressure have darkened our rational thinking and common sense.

In the society of life, we have place more emphasis on the, “I” and the “mine” words, a culture that is geared towards movement, dexterity, physical beauty and personal

achievements. Too often, even the act of moral evaluation is more to an act of economies security than a commitment to moral principles. Have you ever noticed what happened to our government officials and politicians?

We pursue our lives and even faith on schedules or deadlines, pressures, responsibilities and public activities, busy making things happen to reach the goal of success, security, and recognition with no little time left to think about the value of what is happening in life. There is more stress, insanity and isolation from the things that should matter most in any healthy life and real human connection.

Life becomes the best of times and the worst of times. Positions and recognition in the society mean everything to some. We

are what we are and what we own, forgetting what we are inside ourselves.

We suffer from obsessing posessions, believing these things can make us happy and fulfilled – big houses, luxuries, expensive cars, jewelries, signature clothing, bags and shoes, bank accounts, power and titles.

We are beginning to lose touch with reality and the things that are important in life.

The challenge of being human to live life is so great. We invest too much of our soul in working for every material and comfort concerns, have too little time left when at home to be with the family and loved-ones. Fitting in the society is critically important to some. There’s this thing that we have to fit in the society or else we are out. Don’t you feel that the more you try to fit in, the

more you become miserable? Isn’t trying the best you can exhausts your life?

The children of today are given quantity pf stimulation and forget the quality of experience just to keep them busy, because parents themselves are busy working, pursuing things. Children feel bored, uneasy, staying in one activity and in jobs. Others choose alternative lifestyle as they grow and later tend to dwell their lives, fall into depression, suicides, addiction and prostitution.

We keep on creating security to ourselves. We think these will last to the end, even the plan to retire is at stake with fear of change in life. How is it that others seek retirement that some just desperately resist it? Even the plan to spend vocation with their family is a burden, thinking of the time and expenses.

Some believe they cannot get away, cannot take time for their family and themselves. How important is your life? How are the moments shared with them?

Time cannot bring back nor be replaced with money.

We are restless and dissatisfied with what we currently have. We are buying ostentatious things that show off just how much status and money we have.

We buy now and worry about it later when the bills come due, it is as if, we fill the void from other areas of life with all the things we put in our credit cards.

Our world will keep on going, even though we are not going to move any further. There are other important things, more deserving to look into. We are just one and have limitations as human beings, there is a point in which continued on page 8

PHILIPPINE DRY & FROZEN FOODS GOLDILOCK’S BAKERY PRODUCTS TRANS-FAST MONEY REMITTANCE WESTERN UNION MONEY TRANSFER CENTRAL DEALER OF TFC (THE FILIPINO CHANNEL) DOOR TO DOOR CARGO BOXES MANG PEDRO’S BAKERY PRODUCTS visit our website www.tatakpinoy.ca CENTRAL DEALER IN ALBERTA, CANADA

(403) 244-8083 Mon-Fri: 10AM to 8PM Sat: 10 AM to 7 PM Sun: 2 PM to 7 PM

26 Midlake Blvd., SE Calgary, AB T2X 2X7

4

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

diaryofilipino.com

Community News

A warm welcome for Newcomers/TFW in Calgary with the Filipino hospitality we are very proud about. A Collaborative undertaking by Mayer’s Kids Foundation, Forex Alberta in Cooperation with Philippine Culinary Federation of Canada(PCFC) & Mama Nita’s Binalot Restaurant. Saturday, 6pm February 6, 2016 @ Queensland Community Centrem Calgary AB. continued from page 1

Changes in Canada’s Immigration 2016 icy for skilled immigrants and family class programs.

To avoid any confusion, individuals and stakeholders should note that CIC and IRCC are not two separate departments. If documents or publications refer to CIC in one instance and IRCC in another, they are actually referring to the same department. IRCC is not so much a new department, but the successor to one that has existed for many years; CIC has had its mandate slightly modified and been renamed as IRCC. However, the name CIC may continue to be used for some time by some stakeholders, such as Canadian provincial and territorial governments.

Its website continues to be www.cic.gc.ca.

Electronic Travel Authorization for Travellers The Government of Canada will implement significant new entry requirements for those arriving by air. This entry requirement will become mandatory on March 15, 2016. It will allow Canada to screen travellers before they arrive. The authorization is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for five years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Currently, citizens of several countries require a Temporary Resident Visa (“TRV”) to enter Canada and can apply for the TRV through a Canadian Consulate, while citizens of visa-exempt countries may arrive at a Canadian border or airport without first applying for the TRV. Beginning March 15, 2016, most travelers, even from some visa-exempt countries, flying into or transiting through Canada will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (“eTA”)

prior to boarding a flight to Canada. Travelers of all ages will require an eTA when they fly into Canada, including young children.

Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travellers with a valid visa.

Language Requirement for Citizenship John McCallum, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced last February 8 that in the next few week the government will introduce “radical changes” to the Citizenship Act. He said that the language requirement for new immigrants to apply for Canadian citizenship will be probably eliminated as it “disenfranchises” new immigrants from their right to take part in the political process.

Up until now candidates for immigration under Federal Skilled Worker Program are required to prove in a language test approved by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) the ability in English or French in the following four areas: listening, speaking, reading and writing.

They have also to meet the minimum level of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in English or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) 7 in French for their first official language in all four language abilities.

Candidates for immigration under the Federal Skilled Trades Program must must meet the minimum level of CLB 5 (English) or NCLC 5 (French) for speaking and listening, and CLB 4 (English) or NCLC 4 (French) for reading and writing.

Foreign Workers in TV,

Film, and Dance Industries LMIA exempt The government of Canada announced on February 3, 2016 that certain job positions in TV, Film and Dance industries will be added to the list of positions for which foreign nationals may obtain Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)-exempt work permits.

In most cases, a Canadian employer wishing to hire a foreign worker must show that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job and that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to do the job.

This process and approval comes in the form of a LMIA, formerly known as a Labour Market Opinion (LMO). However, in instances where the hiring of a foreign worker is deemed to create and maintain significant economic benefits and opportunities for Canadians and permanent residents, exceptions may be made.

As of February 17, 2016, foreign nationals in the TV and film industry whose position or occupation is essential to a TV or film production may be eligible for an exemption from the LMIA requirement.

The employer must submit an Offer of Employment through the Employer Portal before a work permit application is made. Accordingly, as of February 17, 2016, key creative personnel and talent associated with Canadian, non-profit performing arts companies, and organizations in the orchestral music, opera, live theatre and dance disciplines may also be eligible for an exemption from the LMIA requirements

diaryofilipino.com

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

VULCAN COUNTY • OKOTOKS • HIGH RIVER • CALGARY

TAXI

403.201.0810

w w w . a m d fi n a n c i a l i n c . c o m 403.204.8836 | info@amdfinancialinc.com

Building Roots with People First At RIVERTOWN TAXI, we provide local and airport transport to our communities in the province of Southern Alberta.

Offering the best choices of loans We can help you get the money you need, with a low monthly payment you can afford.

Services:

TAXI SERVICES

SHUTTLE SERVICES

COURIER & DOOR-TO-DOOR SERVICES

Personal loan

Second mortgage

Secured loan

Reverse mortgage

Bridge loan

Credit assistance

Home equity loan

Debt consolidation

Pre-book a Shuttle now!

Hot spots include Banff, Canmore, High River, & Okotoks

1.800.381.3039

NEED IMMIGRATION ADVICE? Call Jon Salvador - Certified Canadian Immigration Consultant A graduate of De La Salle University, Manila and Bow Valley College, Calgary to assist you in the following: • • • • • •

Express Entry Immigration Program Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIAs) Work Permit and Study Permit Work Permit Restoration Provincial Nominee Program Caregiver Program (Live In or Out)

Jon Salvador, BSc. Certified Canadian Immigration Consultant Registered Member of ICCRC & CAPIC

For an appointment please call: OFFICE

• • • • • •

Spousal Sponsorship Program Family Sponsorship Program Tourist or Visitor Visa Investor & Entrepreneur Program Citizenship Application Super Visa for Parents

OFFICE ADDRESS: 213 Hamptons Landing NW Calgary, Alberta Canada T3A 5R4

EDMONTON | RED DEER | CALGARY CELL

(403) 241-6276 or (403) 669-6276

or send email to

Services available in Tagalog & English!

jon@nuerainc.ca

5

EXPIRES 48 HOURS FROM THE DATE OF PRINT. PRICES DO NOT INCLUDE GST. *PAYMENTS O.A.C. FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $2,000 DOWN. ACCENT/ELANTRA/SONATA/TUCSON/SANTA FE COST OF BORROWING: $622.84/$754.09/$2,751.29/$2,684/$1,195.13. ACCENT/ELANTRA/SONATA/TUCSON/SANTA FE TOTAL OBLIGATION: $17,991.68/$21,360.34/$31,227.29/$30,513.20/$30,686.40. OFFERS AVAILABLE FOR A LIMITED TIME AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR CANCELLATION WITHOUT NOTICE. VEHICLES MAY NOT BE EXACTLY AS SHOWN. ERRORS AND OMISSIONS EXEMPT. SEE DEALER FOR DETAILS.

NO WONDER THE COMPETITION ALREADY HATES 2016.

CLEAROUT PRICING IN EFFECT

Free flight

to the philippines with your vehicle purchase*

UP TO

CASH BACK AVAILABLE! O.A.C.

*SEE DEALER FOR DETAILS

10

2016

ACCENT L

0.99% FOR 96 MO.

SALES PRICE

30

ACCENTS TO CHOOSE FROM

2016

ELANTRA L+

0.99% FOR 96 MO.

SALES PRICE

WITH $2,000 DOWN 6 SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION, 5-DOOR

ELANTRAS TO CHOOSE FROM

WITH $2,000 DOWN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, A/C, WINDOWS & DOOR LOCKS

CH238509

CH676649

10

2016

SONATA GL

2.49% FOR 96 MO.

SALES PRICE

44

SONATAS TO CHOOSE FROM

WITH $2,000 DOWN

2016

TUCSON FWD

2.49% FOR 96 MO.

SALES PRICE

A/C, REARVIEW CAMERA, HEATED SEATS, BLUETOOTH, KEYLESS ENTRY

TUCSONS TO CHOOSE FROM

WITH $2,000 DOWN A/C, REARVIEW CAMERA, HEATED SEATS, BLUETOOTH, KEYLESS ENTRY

CH360747

CH134769

43

2016

SANTA FE SPORT FWD

SANTA FES TO CHOOSE FROM

0.99% FOR 96 MO.

SALES PRICE

WITH $2,000 DOWN 2.4L FWD, A/C, HEATED FRONT SEATS, BLUETOOTH, KEYLESS ENTRY

CH369312

COUNTRY HILLS

2307 Country Hills Blvd NE Calgary, AB T3J 0R4 PA R T

O F

Kamusta Ako Richard at nauunawaan ko Tagalog 403-827-4481

B O O K Y O U R A P P O I N T M E N T T O D AY:

403-984-9696

Kamusta ako Nikko at ginagamit ko Tagalog 403-561-4175

CHHYUNDAI.COM

MEET YOUR FILIPINO REPRESENTATIVES

T H E

K A I Z E N

A U T O M O T I V E

G R O U P

|

K A I Z E N A U T O.C O M

diaryofilipino.com

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Immigration News

7

Temporary Foreign Workers Options to legally stay in Canada Columbio (Jon) Salvador, BSc. WRITER Certified Canadian Immigration Consultant About the writer:

Jon Salvador is a licensed immigration consultant and a member in good standing with the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC). He has more than 20 years of management and business experience in Canada. Prior to establishing his immigration consulting company, he worked for a U.S. based computer company and then at TELUS, the 2nd largest telecom company in Canada in various management positions. He is originally from Manila, Philippines and graduated from DLSU (De La Salle University) in Manila with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.

He also studied Business Management at the University of Alberta in Edmonton. If you would like to request articles on other immigration topics for future “Diaryo Filipino” publications, you can contact Jon at (403) 241-6276 or at jon@nuerainc.ca or the publisher of this newspaper.

I have received several requests from Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) to re-publish and update the practical tips published last May 2015 regarding legal options to remain in Canada.

Many TFWs are approaching their 4 year limit this year and 2017. So here is the updated info: Due to the Canadian government TFW – 4 year cumulative rule, after April 1, 2015 many Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) – who have been working in Canada for four (4) or more years and have not yet received their PR File Number or Provincial Nomination Certificate - have been asked to leave Canada.

All new Work Permit (WP) applications will be checked to determine, if the TFW has been working in Canada for 4 or more years since April 1, 2011… and if so, their WP application will be refused or the WP validity duration will be shortened to meet the TFW - 4 year cumulative rule.

Periods not included in the TFW – 4 year Cumulative Rule TFWs who were not working or were laid–off for several months during the period between April 1, 2011 to the present can request for WP extensions to make-up for the time lost when they were not working. To obtain work permit extension, the TFW must be able to provide the CIC with documents that prove there were legitimate breaks from work during the time period covered by their WPs. Examples of legitimate work breaks are: 1. Maternity leave for mothers giving birth - provide birth certificate of child

2. Periods of unemployment – provide letter of termination and employer ROE 3. Periods in the hospital for medical problems – provide proof of hospitalization 4. Extended unpaid leave – provide letter from employer NOTE: Regular vacation leaves are not counted as legitimate work breaks.

TFW Options to Stay in Canada For TFWs who are nearing their cumulative four (4) year limit listed below are some of their options to remain in Canada: 1. Apply under the Express Entry (EE) Immigration program or the newly reopened AINP program for Alberta.

If you have at least one (1) year skilled work experience (NOC: B or A) within the last 10 years, you can apply to become an immigrant under the Express Entry (EE) Immigration program. All EE applicants need to take the IELTS or CELPIP English language exams. The language requirement under the EE program depends under what EE program you are interested to apply under: a. Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program – CLB 7 in all language skills for all skilled jobs NOC: 0, A or B. For IELTS – CLB 7 means a score of 6 in all categories and for CELPIP - CLB 7 means a score of 7 in all categories. b. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program – CLB 7 for NOC: 0 or A jobs (ie. professional and managerial jobs) and CLB 5 for NOC: B jobs (ie. skilled or supervisory jobs). For IELTS – CLB 5 means a score of 5 in all categories, except Reading which requires a score of 4.

For CELPIP – CLB 5 means a score of 5 in all categories. c. Federal Skilled Trades (FST) program – CLB 5 for Speaking and Listening and CLB 4 for Reading and Writing. For IELTS – CLB 4 means a score of 3.5 in Reading and a score of 4 in Writing. For CELPIP – CLB 4 means a score of 4 in Reading and Writing.

If you are found eligible and invited by CIC into the EE program, the EE program current processing times are six (6) months or less. Eligible TFWs should apply as soon as they can while their Work Permits are still valid.

The AINP program was re-opened on Jan. 27, 2016.

Some Skilled Workers categories are still not required to take the English tests. AINP application processing times are still long and there is a 5,500 cap. As a fallback position, AINP applicants who are still waiting for their AINP Certificates should seriously consider, if they are eligible to apply under the much faster EE immigration program.

Besides the English exams, there are many other requirements under the EE program so TFWs may want to consult with a licensed

Immigration Consultant (ie. registered member of ICCRC) to assist them in their EE application.

To check, if the person you are dealing with is a licensed Immigration Consultant, go to the ICCRC website and check, if the person is a registered member of the ICCRC. The ICCRC website link is: http://secure. iccrc-crcic.ca/search-new/ EN. Under Bill C-35 law, persons charging consulting fees - who are not licensed as Immigration Consultants or Lawyers could be penalized up to $100,000 in fines and/ or send to prison up to 2 years. Skilled jobs now eligible under the CEC program Please note that several skilled jobs that were previously suspended in 2014 to apply under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) are now again eligible under EE immigration program such as: 1. Retail Sales Supervisors (NOC: 6211) 2. Cooks (NOC: 6322) 3. Food Service Supervisors (NOC: 6311) 4. Administrative Officers (NOC: 1221) 5. Administrative Assistants (NOC: 1241) 6. Accounting Technicians and Bookkeepers (NOC: 1311) In the CEC program, there is no educational requirements, just one (1) year of full-time (at least 30 hrs./week) skilled work experience in Canada and meet the English language requirements.

2. Have your employer promote you to a Managerial or Professional job position. Managerial jobs (NOC: 0) and Professional jobs (NOC: A) are exempted from the TFW – 4 year cumulative rule… so TFWs promoted to these positions will not be forced to leave Canada, even if they have already been working in Canada for 4 or more years. To promote employees, the employers have to apply for a new LMIA for TFWs. Some employers are reluctant to apply for Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to promote their staff because their company exceeds the recently imposed TFW cap for foreign workers.

It is important to note that there are three (3) types of LMIA applications. The three (3) LMIA types are: a. LMIA to support a Work Permit application – affected by the TFW cap, if the job is paid less than the provincial prevailing median high wage (In Alberta: $25.00/hr.) b. LMIA to support a Permanent Residency (PR) Application c. LMIA to support a PR and Work Permit application Please note that the last 2 types of LMIAs listed above are exempted from the TFW cap for foreign workers and companies with 9 or less employees are also exempt-

ed from the TFW cap. TFWs should inform their employers of this information, just in case the employers are not aware of it.

3. Apply to obtain a Study Permit.

Another option to legally stay in Canada is to change your legal status from foreign worker to student. Foreign students are not affected by the TFW – 4 year cumulative rule. Students are allowed to work only up 20 hrs./ week. Foreign students who graduate from government recognized educational institutions in Canada can apply for Work Permits under the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP).

To obtain a work permit after your graduation under the PGWPP program, you must meet the following requirements: a. You must have studied full time in Canada and you must have completed a program of study that lasted at least eight (8) months. b. In addition, you must have graduated from: a public post-secondary institution, such as a college, trade/technical school, university or CEGEP (in Quebec), or a private post-secondary institution that operates under the same rules and regulations as public institutions, or a private secondary or post-secondary institution (in Quebec) offering qualifying programs of 900 hours or longer leading to a diplôme d’études professionnelles (DEP) or an attestation de spécialisation professionnelle (ASP), or a Canadian private institution authorized by provincial statute to confer degrees but only if you are enrolled in one of the programs of study leading to a degree as authorized by the province and not in all programs of study offered by the private institution. c. You must apply for a work permit within 90 days of receiving written confirmation (for example, a transcript or an official letter) from your institution indicating that you have met the requirements for completing your academic program. d. You must have completed and passed the program of study and received a notification that you are eligible to obtain your degree, diploma or certificate. e. You must have a valid study permit when you apply for the work permit.

A Post-Graduation Work Permit cannot be valid longer than the official length of your program of study in Canada. For example, students graduating from a fouryear degree program might be eligible for a three-year year work permit. Students graduating from an eightmonth certificate program would only be eligible for a work permit of eight months.

If the official length of your program of study is: a. less than eight months you are not eligible for this program

b. less than two years but more than eight months you may get a work permit for a period no longer than the length of your program of study (for example, if you studied for nine months, a work permit may be issued for a period of nine months) c. two years or more a work permit may be issued for three years A work permit under the PGWPP may be issued for the length of the study program, up to a maximum of three (3) years. A post-graduation work permit cannot be valid for longer than the student’s study program, and the study program must be a minimum of eight months in length.

For example, if you graduate from a four-year degree program, you could be eligible for a three-year work permit if you meet the criteria. If you graduate from an eightmonth certificate program, you would be eligible for a work permit that is valid for no more than eight months.

4. Spousal or Common Law partner Sponsorship Program.

Canadian citizens and Permanent Residents (PRs) married to TFWs could sponsor their spouses to become permanent residents. Canadian citizens and PRs who have been living as common law partners with TFWs for at least one (1) year – could also sponsor their common law partners - if they meet sponsorship eligibility requirements and prove that the relationship is genuine and on-going and not entered into for the purpose of staying in Canada.

There are eligibility requirements for a Canadian citizen or PR before they can sponsor a spouse or common law partner. Some of the eligibility requirements are: a. Sponsor must be at least 18 years old b. Sponsor must agree in writing to provide financial support, if needed: for a spouse or partner, this lasts for three years from the date they become a permanent resident, and for a dependent child, this lasts for 10 years, or until the child turns 25, whichever comes first.

The Canadian or PR spouse or common law partner may not be eligible to be a sponsor their partner, if he or she: a. did not meet the terms of a sponsorship agreement made in the past, b. did not pay alimony or child support payments even though a court ordered it, c. receive government financial help for reasons other than being disabled, d. were convicted of • an offence of a sexual nature, • a violent crime, • an offence against a relative that resulted in bodily harm or • an attempt or threat to commit any such offences, depending on the details of

the case, such as: the type of offence, how long ago it occurred and whether a record suspension was issued (see Sponsorship bar for violent crime below), e. were sponsored as a spouse, common-law or conjugal partner in the past and became a permanent resident of Canada less than five years ago f. did not pay back an immigration loan, made late payments or missed payments, g. are in prison or h. have declared bankruptcy and have not been released from it yet.

The list above are only some of the sponsorship eligibility requirements. You may want to consult with a licensed Immigration Consultant or a Lawyer to determine eligibility.

5. Apply to obtain Visitor Visa.

Another option to legally stay in Canada is to change your legal status from foreign worker to visitor or tourist.

Visitors are not affected by the TFW – 4 year cumulative rule. However, visitors are not allowed to work in Canada.

This option makes sense for TFWs who have already applied for Permanent Residency (PR), whose work permits are still valid and are just waiting for their PR application to be approved. Instead of going back to their home country, they could legally apply to change their status to visitors – while their work permit in Canada is still valid.

To obtain approval for Visitors Visa, TFWs have to show that they have enough money to support themselves during their stay in Canada and will not overstay the authorized period. It also helps, if a relative or a friend – who is a Canadian citizen or PR would be willing to provide a Letter of Invitation that indicates they are willing to financially support ( ie. accommodation, food, etc.) the TFW during their stay in Canada.

Each TFW personal situation is different. The legal options available depend on various factors for each individual and the cooperation and support of their employer.

You may wish to consult with a licensed Immigration Consultant or Lawyer to help determine what your best options are to stay in Canada.

Legal Disclaimer: This news article is designed for general information only. The information presented in this article should not be construed to be formal legal advice or the formation of a consultant/ client relationship. Each individual situation is different and people should seek proper advice on their specific cases with a licensed immigration consultant of their choice.

8

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

The Golden Generations of Calgary travelled to Edmonton last January 30 for a special tour of the Alberta Legislature, the province’s foremost historic site. Sitting at the gateway of downtown Edmonton, the Alber-

ta Legislature overlooks the majestic river valley. With over 55 acres of manicured lawns, wondrous tree-lined walking paths and dozens of historical monuments, there is no shortage of activities or sights to be explored. More than 65 seniors take a free tour of the building or purchase unique art created by Alberta artisans, in the Gift Shop. The Alberta Legislature is open 362 days a year. Memories are made here!

Filipino in Alberta won 6/49 him the $1,000,000 Canadian. Atanacio said he could not believe he had become a million-dollar winner.

“I scanned my ticket at the store and thought, ‘This can’t be real!’” he said. “I checked my ticket again and again at that store. I went to a second store to check the ticket and make sure it was a winner.” He finally received confirmation when he contacted Western Canada Lottery Corporation

diaryofilipino.com

Sick temporary worker faces deportation

Community News

RED DEER, Alberta –Herbie Atanacio from Calgary won in the game’s Guaranteed Prize Draw on February 6, 2016 Lotto 6/49.

In a lottery news release, Atanacio said he had a funny feeling that he should play Lotto 6/49 on the February 6 draw.

“I don’t always play Lotto 6/49,” he said, adding, “but the day before the draw, I just had a good feeling about playing this time.”

That lucky feeling got

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

(WCLC).

He plans to use his winning to pay off his mortgage and to help his family in the Philippines.

He also plans to take a trip to the Philippines to visit his family during an extended vacation.

Atanacio bought his winning ticket at International News, located at 120-261055 Cross Iron Blvd. in Rockyview, Alberta. (WCLC News Release)

Jose Osano, a temporary foreign worker in Calgary, is facing deportation despite being hospitalized following a stroke last Dec. 11, according to the crowd funding site GoFundMe.

The 46-year old father of three who hails from Iloilo has been in Canada for seven years and was working as a mechanic at a Toyota dealership in Calgary.

According to GoFundMe, Osano’s work permit

expired in March 2015 and he is no longer covered by the province’s health medical plan. He is paralayzed on the left part of his body and needs in-patient hospital care and rehabilitation. He is presently confined in a hospital in Calgary which the post did not name.

He is reportedly in the process of being deported due to the expiry of his work permit and considered ‘inadmissible’ under the Foreign Temporary

Workers Program (FTWP).

He is fighting to be allowed to stay in Canada as a permanent resident for humanitarian and compassionate grounds.

According to the organizers of the crowd funding, the money raised will help pay his legal bills as well as medical and personal expenses. Osano has a wife and three children in the Philippines, the youngest son is 10 years old. (Go Fund Me)

ly valuable. Let us create happy moments with our family and loved ones.

Think that it will be a wonderful society we live in if we could stop obsessing over and ways in which we don’t fit. Concentrate on the meaning of relationship. Be realistic and have self-discipline. Focus on the things around. Appreciate the blessings in life, never sell your soul to the idols of time and life accessories.

As mother Theresa said, “We are not here in this world to be successful, we are here to be faithful to ourselves to family and most of all to our father almighty and in our faith.”

Where are we going from here to now? We need to change and have our values

express more visibly in daily life. We can create a good life in which our outer life matches the values and beliefs one deeply hold more. Try to rise above the pandemonium of life, maintain our perspective and stick to what is really important. Our values are our compass in life. It keeps us on course regardless of the confusion of life.

Learn to discern of what is significant. Make things happen that will lead us to a meaningful, joyful and peaceful life. Where are we going? Let our going, our journey in life lead us to the right path and plan of our lord.

A blessed holy week to all!

continued from page 3

What is..

money can do absolutely nothing for us, but buy us more expensive things that don’t last, with which we try to fill up emptiness and dissatisfaction. Then, when we have consumed the fire of ambition, destroyed desire for power. Then nothing is left but to take refuge on whatever warmth thing the soul we have managed to maintain.

We have to learn to cope up with the vagaries of life. Be contented that whatever we have is enough – simple living, simple lifestyle of the self, titles, status and signs of being something more than we are and less than we were. Faith is supreme-

EXPIRES 48 HOURS FROM DATE OF PRINT. PRICES DO NOT INCLUDE GST. VEHICLE PAYMENTS ARE O.A.C. *1 5.49% FOR 96 MTHS, COST OF CREDIT IS $9,549.71, AND TOTAL OBLIGATION INCLUDING TAXES IS $40,146.61. *2 5.49% FOR 96 MTHS, COST OF CREDIT IS $2,944.72, AND TOTAL OBLIGATION INCLUDING TAXES IS $12,379.76. *3 5.49% FOR 96 MTHS, COST OF CREDIT IS $5,036.96, AND TOTAL OBLIGATION INCLUDING TAXES IS $21,177.76. *4 5.49% FOR 96 MTHS, COST OF CREDIT IS $9,549.71, AND TOTAL OBLIGATION INCLUDING TAXES IS $40,146.61. ERRORS AND OMISSIONS EXEMPT. VEHICLES MAY NOT BE EXACTLY AS SHOWN. DEALER RESERVES THE RIGHT TO END PROMOTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE. SEE DEALER FOR FULL DETAILS.

E N O G E V WE’ R A F O O T S

D N E E L A S !

Y R R HU !

H T 9 2 Y R A U R B E F

“KAMI AY A IT NAGSASAL IKA!” NG IYONG W

RYAN UMINGA

Direct: 403-287-5965 Mobile: 403-970-9124 Email: ruminga@shawgmc.com

YOU SA VE

$16,00 0

2015 SILVERADO 2500 LT 4X4

2015 CRUZE

2015 TERRAIN

1.8L ENGINE, 16” WHEELS, 6 SPEAKER SYSTEM, LTE WI-FI

2.4L ENGINE, 7” COLOR TOUCH SCREEN RADIO, BLUETOOTH, REAR CAMERA

LS

SALE: $11,465 5.49% FOR 96 MONTHS

1500 DBL CAB 4X4

4.3L V6 ENGINE, PWR WINDOWS, PWR LOCKS, USB, 4.2” COLOR SCREEN RADIO

YOU SAVE

$11,900

$10,420 MSRP: $30,145

SG350383

SG330747

MSRP: $38,705

SALE: $19,725

*2

*1

2015 SIERRA

YOU SAVE

SG247180

$37/WK

SALE: $37,862

SLE 1 FWD

LOW EST PRIC E IN COUTHE NTR Y

MSRP: $17,775

MSRP: $54,465

5.49% FOR 96 MONTHS INCLUDES $1,000 TRUCK LOYALTY REBATE

SG144895

$6,300

Direct: 403-287-5912 Email: gfirmeza@shawgmc.com

$119/WK

6L V8 ENGINE, CONVENIENCE PKG, TRAILERING EQUIPMENT, POWER SEAT, REMOTE START, 8” COLOR TOUCH SCREEN RADIO, REAR CAMERA

YOU SAVE

GADY FIRMEZA Pre Owned Sales Manager

Sales and Leasing Consultant

SALE: $26,792

$63/WK $85/WK *3

5.49% FOR 96 MONTHS WITH $2,500 DOWN

*4

5.49% FOR 96 MONTHS INCLUDES $1,000 TRUCK LOYALTY REBATE

OMSHAWGMC.COMSHAWGMC.COMSHAWGMC.COMSHAWGMC.COMSHAWGMC.COMSHAWGMC.COMSHAWGMC.COMSHAWGMC.COMSHAWGMC.COMSHAWGMC.COMSHAWGMC.COMS

4620 BLACKFOOT TR SE, CALGARY, AB T2G 4G2 P A R T

O F

T H E

K A I Z E N

A U T O M O T I V E

G R O U P

|

Gle nm ore Trail S.

t Trail D e e rfoo

SHAW

N

Blackfoot Trail S.

REDIT.COM BLACKFOOTC -5908 403-287

Macleod Trail S.

403-243-4200 SHAWGMC.COM

42 Ave S.

4620 Blackfoot Tr. S.E.

K A I Z E N A U T O . C O M

10

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

Provincial News

Philippine Consulate opens in Alberta

A new Philippine Consulate will open at the end of this month in Calgary, Alberta, The Philippine Daily Inquirer reports.

Quoting Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) sources, the report says the new consul is Julius Torres, currently Assistant Secretary of the department. He is due to arrive on February 23.

According to Torres, the office will be fully operational by March and will offer services including passport application and renewals, notarials, document authentication, among others.

The opening has been long in coming after years of demand from Alberta’s 120,000 Filipinos to have the service available. It will also serve Sakatchewan.

Both provinces have been previously served by outreach services from the Vancouver and Toronto consulates.

In a telephone interview by PDI, Torres said Calgary was eyed because of the concentration of

Filipinos in the area. The city is home to more than 40,000 Filipinos according to the 2011 census.

The city was also chosen to bolster relations with commercial establishments, major industries and other diplomatic offices located in the area, he said.

Torres has 35 years in foreign service experience starting in 1981. He is currently serving as the DFA assistant secretary for Middle East and African Affairs, but has previously served several leadership roles in Philippine posts in Jordan, Hawaii, Romania, Brussels, Belgium, Palau, Saipan, Toronto and Australia.

Campaigns Calls to open an Alberta-based Philippine consular office renewed in 2013 when Migrante Alberta led a petition signing that gathered 6,000 signatures.

This was followed by the formation of Alberta Coalition for Consular Office in the city of Edmonton composed of private indi-

viduals, non-government organizations and Filipino cultural groups.

Vote gathering Clarizze Truscotte, Coalition for Consular Office member said in an interview that although her group lauds the fruition of their campaign, she is hoping that the move is not geared towards gathering votes for the administration’s party in the upcoming election.

“We are glad the Philippine government is finally paying attention to our needs here but we hope this is not to garner votes from Filipino migrants,” she said. Truscotte said that her group would keep a close watch on the progress of the new consular office.

Torres said the new consular office’s role in the election would be to account for all the votes under its jurisdiction and submit the numbers to the Vancouver consulate.

(Philippine Daily Inquirer)

Protection measures in place early to prepare for wildfire season

Alberta’s wildfire season officially starts in two weeks, bringing into effect annual restrictions on burning activities.

Beginning March 1, a permit is required for all planned fires in Alberta’s Forest Protection Area, with the exception of campfires.

“By beginning one month early, we can more effectively monitor burning activities and also ensure that our firefighters are well prepared to respond quickly when

wildfires are detected.”

Oneil Carlier, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry

Accelerating wildfire season preparations was one of the recommendations of the Flat Top Wildfire Complex Review that followed the 2011 Slave Lake area wildfires.

Training starts for wildfire crew members and leaders at Alberta Agriculture and Forestry’s training centre in Hinton, beginning in March.

Fire permits are free

and can be requested at any Agriculture and Forestry office. Phone 3100000 to locate the closest office.

Last year’s wildfire season produced 1,786 wildfires that burned more than 492,000 hectares, more than twice the 25-year average.

Albertans report about one-third of wildfires in the province. To report a wildfire,

call 310-FIRE (3473).

EVELYN ROBERTSON Real Estate Associate

MASTER SALES AWARD

Thinking of Buying or Selling Your Home?

Call Evelyn Robertson

Cell: (403) 874-9160 Bus: (403) 278-8899 Email: e.robertson@shaw.ca

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

MaxWell - Canyon Creek An Independent Member Broker

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

diaryofilipino.com

Hard-hit Alberta may qualify for federal cash relief, Saskatchewan takes note

By Andy Blatchford, The Canadian Press OTTAWA - Alberta could be in line for financial relief from an obscure, seldom-used federal program in order to help ease the economic pain caused by falling commodity prices.

The Alberta government could be eligible for payments under the 50-year-old fiscal stabilization program, designed to compensate provinces that suffer steep drops in revenues from one year to the next, federal Finance Minister Bill Morneau said Friday.

Now Saskatchewan, Alberta’s resource-producing neighbour, has taken notice.

The Prairie province has also been walloped by the commodity slump, but its finance minister acknowledged Friday it doesn’t quite meet the criteria to receive cash through the fiscal stabilization program — yet.

“I can’t foretell right now what’s going to happen next fiscal year, but we may get to a point where we might be eligible,” Saskatchewan Finance Minister Kevin Doherty told The Canadian Press in an interview.

Doherty, who hadn’t heard of the program until very recently, suggested the formula behind fiscal stabilization could be ready for an update because of the severity of the resource-related shock in several provinces.

It also has the potential to drag on, he added.

“Maybe now is the time to take a look at some type of a stabilization fund or re-tweaking of that legislation such that it recognizes the significance of those downturns in those provincial economies,” said Doherty,

whose province has particularly felt the squeeze of low prices in oil, potash and uranium.

“We’re kind of being hit by the perfect storm in commodities right now.”

He did acknowledge, however, that Alberta is facing a considerably bigger financial challenge than Saskatchewan.

Last fall, Alberta projected large revenue declines for 2015-16. Since then, resource prices have slipped even further.

Provinces can make claims under the program when economic shifts cause their revenues to tumble by more than five per cent from one year to the next.

Declines in resource revenues of more than 50 per cent are also accounted for.

They can receive up to a maximum payment of $60 for every provincial resident, an amount set in the late 1980s.

Morneau said Alberta, which has a population of about 4.1 million, could receive up to $250 million from Ottawa.

Doherty estimates Saskatchewan would receive as much as $70 million if it qualified.

“Which is not a great deal of money on a $14-billion-plus budget, but it certainly would be helpful,” said Doherty, who’s also calling on Ottawa to expedite its promised infrastructure spending.

Doherty said he hadn’t had a close-enough look at the formula to specifically suggest whether its eligibility requirements or the cap should be re-examined.

For his part, Alberta Finance Minister Joe Ceci said Friday that he didn’t have any problems with the $60-per-person maximum.

Ceci did confirm that he spoke with Morneau and that a decision on the

fiscal stabilization could be made in the coming days.

“We’ve had some discussion about the difficulties Alberta is in right now and the support federal assistance would mean for this province,” Ceci told reporters in Calgary.

“Anything would be helpful. As a population, as an economy, as an industry it is challenging right now for all Albertans.”

Morneau said Friday that Ottawa would work “expeditiously” to move forward on any claim made by Alberta.

Alberta’s situation has become a priority for the federal government.

A senior federal government source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said a fiscal-stabilization payment was just one of several possibilities Ottawa is exploring as it scrambles to find ways to help the hard-hit province.

In preparation for the spring budget, the federal government has also instructed bureaucrats across many departments to generate “innovative ideas” that could help provide specific relief for the Alberta economy, said the source, who wasn’t authorized to disclose details publicly.

Alberta’s woes are “drag ging down the entire Canadian economy,” the source warned.

Potential solutions include fast-tracking infrastructure spending and tweaking the usual, per-capita infrastructure funding disbursement formula to reflect economic need, the source noted. Another idea being examined is a boost to direct transfers to individuals, perhaps through modifications to the employment insurance program. (The Canadian Press)

diaryofilipino.com

New Year at Chinese Cultural Centre Chinese New Celebrations at the Chinese Cultural Centre was spread out over 4 weekends starting from Jan. 30 to Feb. 21 to enable the number of organizations and vendors to take part given that in previous one weekend was not enough for the public to enjoy the festivities. The main weekend was Jan.30 to Feb. 7 which saw the multiple Lion

Dancers and Golden Dragon perform and along with many cultural dances and the fast moving Wushu performances continue to amaze onlookers at how graceful and athletic the performers are. Winnie Cai from Calgary Tai Chi & Martial Art College and National Wushu Gold Medal champion for National and International competition and seeing her double sword performance speaks for itself at a perfectionist level.

( Ice Carving Experts)

ASST EDITOR IN-CHIEF

Winter comes alive every year in iconic Lake Louise, Alberta with Ice Magic Festival. Talented ice artists from around the world gather and compete the gruel-

ing 34 hours of physical labour. They then must transform 15-300pounds per block of Cleinbell sculpting ice into precision artistry turned into masterpieces.

Constantly almost every year, two teams representing Team Philippines, join and showcase their

PA-GMAI-WishIMay-DiaryoFilipino-AB.indd 1

2 Medals of Valor, 42 Medals of Distinguished Conduct and 6 Medals of Distinguished Service

Marietta Pangan-Dutkoski

FACES and HEARTS OF Champions with Ross Baisas & Victor Dagatan

Marietta Pangan-Dutkoski

Mamasapano Anniversary

COURTESY OF SUN STAR MANILA

WRITER

11

Philippine News

Community News

Len Chan

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

talents and skills in ice carving . Every year, these two teams bring home several medals if not all.

These two teams also have brought pride and honour to the Philippines.They have been gone and back from different parts world such as France, continued on page 17

ASST EDITOR IN-CHIEF

The highest honour in the Philippine National Police (PNP) force, Medal of Valor, is conferred posthumously to the two families, of the late Chief Insp. Gednat G. Tabdi and PO2 Romeo C. Cempron. The award was given at Commemoration of Heroism for the 25th Foundation Day of the PNP. The families were awarded

by President Ninoy Aquino Jr. exactly a year after the 44 Special Action Force (SAF) troopers were slain during the ill planned operation “Oplan Exodus”.

The award were given in recognition of their heroic deeds resulted in the death of international terrorist Zulkifli Abdhir “Marwan” in Mamasapano, Maguindanao. Tabdi was already wounded, still led his team, The 84th Special Action Company to accomplish its mission, while Cempron, sacrificed himself as a human shield in order for survivor PO2 Christopher Lalan to move to safety. Aside from the medals, Tabdi and Cempron’s families will also receive a lifetime monthly pension of P20,000.

The Medals of Distinguished Conduct (Medalya ng Kabayanihan) , the second highest military or police honour, were posthumous awarded to the families of SAF 42.

The qualified children of the Distinguished Conduct

Medal awardees shall be granted educational scholarships under the PNP’s Reward Education Assistance Program. The recipients are officers are PO1 Angel C. Kodiamat, PO1 Gringo Charag Cayang-o, PO1 Joseph Gumatay Sagonoy, PO1 Loreto Guyab Capinding, PO1 Mark Lory Orloque ClemencioPO1 Oliebeth Ligutan Viernes, PO1 Russel Bawaan Bilog,PO1 Windel Llano Candano, PO2 Amman Misuari Esmulla, PO2 Chum Goc-Ong Agabon, PO2 Ephraim G. Mejia, PO2 Franklin Cadap Danao, PO2 Glenn Berecio Badua, PO2 Godofredo Basak Cabanlet, PO2 Jerry Dailay Kayob, PO2 Joel Bimidang Dulnuan, PO2 Nicky DC Nacino Jr., PO2 Noble Sungay Kiangan, PO2 Noel Nebrida Balaca, PO2 Omar Agacer Nacionales, PO2 Peterson I. Carap, PO2 Richelle Salangan Baluga, PO2 Rodel Eva Ramacula, PO2 Roger C. Cordero, PO2 Romeo Valles Senin II, PO2 Walner Faustino Danao, PO3 Andres Viernes Duque Jr., PO3 Jed-In Abubakar Asjali, PO3 John Lloyd Rebammonte Sumbilla, PO3 Junrel Narvas Kibete, PO3 Noel Onangey Golocan, PO3 Robert Dommolog Allaga, PO3 Rodrigo F. Acob Jr., PO3 Virgel S. Villanueva, PO3 Vitoriano Nacion Acain, SPO1 Lover L. Inocencio, Insp. Rennie Tayrus,Sr. Insp.

Cyrus Paleyan Anniban, Sr. Insp. Joey Sacristan Gamutan, Sr. Insp. John Garry Alcantara Erana, Sr. Insp.

Max Jim Ramirez Tria and Sr. Insp. Ryan Ballesteros Pabalinas

Along with Gallant 44 awardee, 6 other surviving officers have been recognized as heroes and received the Distinguished Service Medal (Medalya ng Katapatan sa Paglilingkod).

Four have been promoted by one rank, together with 25 other survivors. They are PO3 Solomon A. Agayso, PO3 Jovalyn D. Lozano, PO3 Jose S. Mana-ar, Jr. and PO2 Clifford P. Agayyong .

Napolcom executive officer Eduardo Escueta said,”They being are recognized for their part in the operation, risk of their lives above and beyond the call of duty and lived to tell the tale.

The two also conferred are Senior Supt. Fernando H. Mendez Jr. and Senior Supt.

Edgar S. Monsalve, case supervisor and case officer, respectively, who were responsible for the “intelligence package” for “Operation Exodus,” resulted in the successful neutralization” of Marwan, Escueta added. Awardees of the PNP Distinguished Service Medal are entitled to additional five days’ leave credits.” said

During the ceremony, President Aquino lamented his frustration towards the slow result of the investigation and promised the families that sacrifice of these heroes will not be forgotten. He also addressed his lamentation to the judicial system being “justice delayed is justince denied towards the SAF 44.

Up until the present no one is been held accountable, no one is behind bars in the killings.

2016-02-16 8:07 PM

12

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

National

Commission on Filipinos Overseas

Opens Nominations for the 2016 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas 19 January 2016 —The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver invites qualified members of the Filipino-Canadian communities in British Columbia, Alberta, Yukon and Northwest Territories to submit nominations to the 2016 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas.

Initially conferred in 1991 by the late President Corazon C. Aquino through the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO), the Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas is a biennial awards system that gives recognition to Filipinos and other individuals or organizations which contribute to Philippine development initiatives, or promote the interests of overseas Filipino communities. The awards are also given to overseas Filipinos who have exceptionally distinguished themselves in their work or profession and have brought honor to the Filipino nation. A distinct

category is also reserved for foreign individuals or organizations for their exceptional contribution to the Philippines and for advancing the cause of overseas Filipino communities.

There are four categories of awards to be conferred, namely: Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino (LINKAPIL) Award, which recognizes Filipino individuals or organizations for their exceptional or significant contribution to reconstruction, progress and development in the Philippines; Banaag Award, which recognizes Filipino individuals or organizations for their significant contribution to advance the cause or promote the interests of overseas Filipino communities; Kaanib ng Bayan Award, which recognizes foreign individuals or organizations for their exceptional or significant contribution to Philippine reconstruction, progress and development, or to advance the cause or promote the interests of overseas Filipino communities; andPamana ng Pilipino Award, which recognizes

Filipinos overseas who exemplifies the talent and industry of the Filipino, have brought the country honor and recognition through excellence and distinction in the pursuit of their work or profession.

Nominees should have accomplished at least five years work or contribution in the field to which they are nominated. Nominations may be submitted through the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver, addressed to the attention of the Awards Committee.

All nominations submitted through mail or online must be received on or before May 31 2016. To download the primer and nomination form, please visit the CFO link: http:// www.cfo.gov.ph/images/ PresAwards2016/pa_primer_jan15.pdf For more information, interested parties may get in touch with the CFO Awards Secretariat at email address: presidentialawards@cfo.gov.ph.

Source: Phil Consulate Vancouver News

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

diaryofilipino.com

diaryofilipino.com

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

13

Travel & Adventure Angelito de Jesus PHOTOS & TEXT

My recent visit to Jasper National Park gave me a greater understanding how physical and environmental changes in Canadian geography were greatly influenced from the glacial period.

Realizing that a larger portion of the northern hemisphere was under thick masses of ice; through time and atmospheric changes, miles of ice started disappearing and left a fascinating characteristic in the land.

Rivers were formed; huge erratic rocks were in certain areas that one may think they were placed there by machines when in fact they were carried along when million tons of ice started receding, natural bridges were created, floras and faunas adapted and thrived. The rising water levels in rivers and lakes from glacial melt-away bring devastating floods and landslides were attributed from the temperature spikes caused by greenhouse emissions.

The Athabasca Glacier is the largest of six sheets that form the Columbia Icefield, according to Parks Canada, it is believed that its losing about 5 meters of ice every year and possible of becoming extinct within a generation. So far, it had already receded about 1.5 kilometers, it continually retreated for about 150 years so far. This phenomenon is clearly marked along the trail showing the snout of the glacier has already retreated about 200 meters since 1992.

My visit aboard the Ice Explorer gave me a much more appreciation having been able to see it from a different perspective and the vastness of it all. In winter months the nearest ice hills can be hiked only about 2 kilometers from the highway.

This is due to the frozen stream at the base. In the summer the stream from the glacial melt-away creates a very strong current and it is not accessible and closed off due to potential hazard.

The town of Jasper is about four to five hours drive from Calgary. In winter driving it could take six to eight hours depending on road conditions as snow, avalanches, wildlife and closure could have a tremendous effect on driving.

The town boasts many amenities and recreational activities throughout the year. Natural parks in the surrounding areas are breathtaking.

Marmot Basin is a prime skiing destination which is only about 20 minutes drive from the town. The most popular canyons are the Athabasca Falls and the Maligne Canyon where powerful current that feeds on the falls can be seen around the

built up platform and foot bridges around it. In the winter months, the canyon and the enormous ice falls along the frozen river can be explored.

Glacial Exploration

JASPER

Summer months are a good time to visit but usually it’s packed with people. I enjoyed my visit there in mid-January mainly to see the ice falls and be able to navigate through the frozen river.

There are tours that will take groups to the canyon and they will provide winter boots and cleats.

NATIONAL PARK

Exploring Athabasca Falls

On the way to Jasper with two of my photo co-explorers stopped at Athabasca falls for a quick jaunt. I have been there a couple of times before in the summer but I have never seen it in the winter when everything is frozen solid. We decided to hang out there a bit before we head out to town. We walked around the foot bridges but nothing interests me as far as viewpoint of the falls; we separated and explored the area to find what would catch our attention. Further along the foot bridge, there was an opening and I decided to check it out not knowing that it leads to the river below which I was most interested in.

I carefully examined the river to make sure that it can hold my weight before I fully jump in. After I gained the confidence that it was solid enough, I began taking photos of the general area and slowly proceeded to the head falls further into the canyon. As I got closer to the head falls, the ice was getting thinner and only on the edge of the river looked only partially frozen due to strong current below it.

I was determined to see the power of this falls right before my eyes and not deterred by the precariousness of the mid-frozen path. I slowly crawled to distribute my weight as I went around the bend very carefully not to induce any fracture or I would end up in the hypothermic river.

Successfully – I made it to the front of the head falls. My heart was pounding as I sat on a small piece of ice enough to set my tripod while the sound of the thundering falls echoes through the 30 to 40 meter high canyon.

I snapped several exposures trying to capture the dynamic of the water flowing into the pool and ice around. There was not a single soul around there the whole time I was there. The peace and tranquil surroundings was a luxury to behold and I felt I was in an unexplored territory.

I was completely lost in the moment, and then I realized my company I

Selfie under amazing frozen Maligne Falls

was with probably looking for me. I made my way out from the canyon carefully and at the center of the frozen river, I stood there and looked back and contemplated the thousands of years to form this canyon and gave thanks for witnessing all this in my lifetime.

Ice Walk

We got picked up from our hotel early in the morning for the ice walk tour and joined the other group. The tour provided the snow boots and ice cleats and a short orientation of the geological wonders of the area.

The temperature forecasted to be at -32°C and we were prepared for it, it turned to be a huge discrepancy and it was balmy -7°C and was overdressed for it.

Upon arrival to the parking, we headed to the Maligne canyon trailhead where the large detailed map of the canyon was shown. At first it didn’t seem to be as interesting, as we passed through dried up river and among the field of river rocks, we were greeted with a partially frozen falls. There we snapped a few pictures and proceeded towards a small frozen falls and ice bed. The guide explains the phenomenon of this spring and scooped some from the dripping waterfalls and handed out to everyone for refreshing natural spring water.

We proceeded towards the gorge among fallen down trees and snow covered boulders and huge chunks of ice.

We arrived at another falls and we crawled into a small opening where the ice caves and behind the ice falls. I kept thinking to myself what it must have been the kind shelter during ice age.

As we approached

Snow covered Maligne canyon

Ice Explorer coatches are the only vehicles that can navigate through steep ice grade

the main canyon through towering gorges from the frozen river, the scene was surreal as if we suddenly transported thousands of years back into ice age. The immense beauty was indescribable; it was like a dream of being in another planet under gigantic icicles.

After almost two hours of exploring and taking photos, we reached the end of the canyon and I

examined the crevices and layers of gorges all around trying to analyze the time and the force of nature to carve and transform to what it is now.

We were still impressed in every turn and didn’t realize that there was another group behind us and had the bail out.

Just a little over three hours of exploring wasn’t enough time, now that I know the ins and outs of

the canyon and not necessarily have to go with a group, I will plan to go back there in the near future to spend more time.

All images were created on 9 January 2015 and Copyrighted on 21 January 2016 © AdeJ Photography See all other images for this article at www.adejphotography.ca

14

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

BOBCATS VS BARRIO

Sports

Tata “Tatsky” Gascon WRITER

3 – 18 on Barrio’s credit.

It looks like a mismatch since they were playing against athletes who had been in the court for some number of years and who are on average in their early to mid thirties, but the young players’ strength and agility were so prominent that after the 3rd quarter, they were able to get close to the score that Barrio players were enjoying for the first 2 quarters. The game was overall heart-stomping because the young team defended their battleground with might. At the end the score proved it all in favor of Barrio Team Calgary.

Cebuana Olympic hopeful teams up with Japanese running coach

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

Store Hours: Mon & Tues: Wed & Sat: Thursday: Sunday:

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

CEBU CITY, Feb. 16 (PNA) -- Cebuana Olympic hopeful Mary Joy Tabal is teaming up with a Japanese coach in her quest to become the first Pinay to join the marathon event in the Rio Olympics.

Tabal, the three-time Milo Marathon national finals champion who is operating outside the national team set-up, will train in Japan under coach Akio Usami.

Tabal will leave for Japan on February 22 and will fly to Boston on April 11 for the Boston Marathon, where she will try to make the Rio Olympics women’s marathon qualifying time of 2:45.

Her personal best, recorded in 2013, is 2:48.

“Japan has the finest equipment and sports program I have seen and for Joy to train there is a big factor,” said John Philip Duenas, Tabal’s long-time coach who changed her from a short-distance sprinter to a long-distance threat.

Duenas also thanked the sponsors who have shouldered the training of the Cebuana, who left the national team late last year.

“The financial expense for this is really big and I thank our sponsors for making this happen and giving Joy a chance to chase that Olympic dream,” said Duenas.

Both Tabal and Duenas were recipients of the Jenesys 2.0 Marathon Youth Exchange Programme in Japan in 2014 and both even won a 20K race during that stint.

Tabal, who will be the first Filipino to train under Usami, will also have regular training sessions at the Nippon

COURTESY OF PRESSREADER.COM

Local Calgary Filipino Community basketball team Barrio Fiesta had an opportunity to come face to face with Burman University’s Bobcats Team for a back-to-back invitational tournament on Sunday, January 31st at its Physical Education Facility in Lacombe, Alberta. The young and high-spirited players of Burman University in their early twenties proved strong and proud even after a low-scoring streak in the first 15 minutes of the game with

diaryofilipino.com

Sports Science University in Yokohama.

Aside from being away from Cebu, the diminutive Cebuana who has won almost all races that can be won in Cebu, said being away from Duenas will take some adjustment.

“It is a bit unusual being away from coach because I have been dependent on him in terms of my training, diet, rest and everything,” she said.

However, Tabal, who has also joined the Paris and LA Marathons in the past two years, said she will do anything to chase her Olympic dream.

“This is for my dream, the Olympics. Through this training, I will be able to learn more things which will be useful for me and his coaching as well,” said Tabal.

Aside from contacting the renowned Japanese coach, Tabal’s backers--Motor Ace Philippines and

Motor Ace Racing--has also linked with Dick Beardsley, who finished second in the 1982 Boston Marathon.

Beardsley will help Tabal when she arrives in Boston.

“We are supporting Mary Joy because we believe she has the skills to make it to the biggest stage in world sport, the Olympics,” said Jonel Borromeo, the president of Motor Ace Philippines.

Tabal is thankful for the two-month trip to Japan as it will force her to concentrate on her training.

“Running in the Boston Marathon is the only thing in my mind right now. It’s my biggest event for this year. My performance in that race will determine my Olympic chances,” said Tabal, who also won the silver medal in the Southeast Asian Games last year. (PNA)

diaryofilipino.com

COURTESY OF FOXMOVIES.COM

Senator Enverga thanks Cardinal Collins for his testimony

The Merc with the Mouth Rakes Over $300M Worldwide on its Opening Weekend Ruel Sarmiento CONTRIBUTOR

Deadpool’s performance at the box office over the weekend was overwhelming, to say the least. Shattering records after records for an R-Rated film that was long held

by Matrix Reloaded. It was the highest opening debut ever for the month of February. And by the looks of it, it is positioning itself to surpass another Marvel-helmed flick, Ant-Man. The wise-cracking, 4thwall breaking mercenary is breaking even its own studio’s expectations. With a tight budget of $58M, it is surely a winner for Fox. Considering the disaster that is, the Fantastic Four.

Interestingly, this film will not come into fruition had it not for a leaked Deadpool test footage that spread across the internet around 2 years ago. This film had been fan driven and the clamour to make it R-Rated is the only way to go to make justice of

WIKIPEDIA

the character. The thespian, Ryan Reynolds, during his interviews shared that he was fighting for this solo Deadpool movie to be made for 11 years.

His fascination for the character started back in 2004, after appearing in Blade Trinity with Wesley Snipes and Jessica Biel.

A friend mentioned to him that his performance on that film was akin to Wade Wilson aka Deadpool. Out of curiosity, he later read an issue of Deadpool and much to his amazement, a panel in the comics described what the mercenary looks like. It is a cross-breed between Ryan Reynolds and a Sharpei.

Reynolds’ Deadpool first appeared in X-Men Origins: Wolverine back in 2009 which is supposedly be a launch pad for a Deadpool movie. But the film’s underwhelming performance at the box office closed the doors for a solo Deadpool flick. In 2010, the shelved film’s script leaked online and caused enough uproar for

DEADPOOL

Deadpool (real name Wade Winston Wilson) is a fictional antihero appearing in American comic books published

by Marvel Comics.

Created by artist/writer Rob Liefeld and writer Fabian Nicieza, the character first appeared in The New Mutants #98 cover-dated (Feb. 1991). Initially Deadpool was depicted as a supervillain when he made his first appearance in The New Mutants and later in issues of X-Force, but has since evolved into the role of an antihero.

Deadpool is a disfigured and mentally unstable mercenary with the superhuman ability of an accelerated healing factor and physical prowess. He is known as

the “Merc with a Mouth” because of his talkative nature and tendency to break the fourth wall, which is used by writers to create humorous effect.

The character’s popularity has seen him feature in numerous other media. In the 2004 series Cable & Deadpool, he refers to his own scarred appearance as “Ryan Reynolds crossed with a Shar-Pei”;[5][6] Reynolds would eventually portray the character in the 2009 film X-Men Origins: Wolverine and reprise the role in the 2016 film Deadpool[7] [8] — the latter incarnation bearing far more similarities to the comic book version.

15

National

Entertainment

W

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Fox to grant a budget for a test footage with visual effects specialist Tim Miller attached as director, and Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick of Zombieland fame as writers. No word was heard from the studio after the test footage until the leak in July 2014. Fox was pressured to greenlight the film and grant the production team a small budget and the liberty to do whatever they want without studio execs’ interference.

Deadpool is a passion project for Reynolds, Miller, Reese, and Wernick and it’s nothing but amazing. The marketing until the movie came out was stellar, clever, and fun. With the sequel already green-lit even before the movie came out, with fan-favorite Cable rumoured to be in it, Fox landed another goldmine from its X-Men franchise.

X-Force anyone?

Ottawa, February 3, 2016 – Today, His Eminence Thomas Cardinal Collins, Archbishop of Toronto, testified before the Special Joint Committee on Physician-Assisted Dying, which is empowered to make recommendations on the framework of a federal response on physician-assisted dying after the Supreme Court of Canada ruling stating that the Criminal Code is a breach of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

“I wish to thank His Eminence for a powerful testimony before the Committee this evening,” said Senator Enverga in a statement after the committee had adjourned. “As members of the Catholic church, we have a duty to defend life, and to proclaim the culture of life for the common good of society. I also wish to congratulate His Eminence on taking on his role as the chief shepherd of all Catholics in the Archdiocese of Toronto, and on standing up to what the late Pope John Paul II called a culture of death leading to the creation of structures of sin that go against life.”

“Our worth as a society will be measured by the support we give to the vulnerable.

People facing illness may choose to end their lives for reasons of isolation, discouragement, loneliness, or poverty even though they may have many years yet to live. What does it say about us as a society when the ill and the vulnerable in our midst feel like burdens?

Often, a plea for suicide is a cry for help. Society should respond with care and a compassionate response to these vulnerable people, and

not with death,” said Cardinal Collins as part of his testimony, urging parliamentarians to focus on palliative care rather than allowing physician-assisted suicide when our healthcare system fails the weakest in our society.

For more information please contact:

Lars Andersen Senator Tobias C. Enverga Jr.’s office Tel: 613-996-8895

lars.andersen@sen. parl.gc.ca

16

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

SENIOR Precy Atienza WRITER

Today elderly people are often just physically and mentally vibrant as their younger friends and relatives. We need to evaluate the physical needs of seniors. They need to exercise so that they can function fully. Seniors can have home exercise, walking, standing, bending, and lifting. Visit a community and engage to the activities, participate, and exchange ideas so that seniors create a better life.

Encourage to share their knowledge with others through public speaking or book sharing-novels or stories they have read and movies that they have seen. Also music helps the sensory stimulation and encourage inter personal skills. Programming for seniors should support the diversity though a variety of activities given depending on their age, life style and needs.

Again seniors needs respect, dignity, fairness, and self-esteem. March is Epilepsy awareness. Be aware that seizures come at any time. Bear in mind that remove everything

from the areas that may cause injury like sharp objects.

Protect your social insurance, never use your social insurance as your identification. Never answer the phone if you don’t know the caller, social insurance is very important because our lives depends in this piece of identification.

Often times seniors was bullied, it was repetitive. Seniors lost their self-esteem, they always have the feeling of rejection. They sometimes cannot sleep, often time’s seniors have depression.

Sometimes they think of suicidal is the answer for depression in the reason of bullying. We can help seniors by contacting the local police.

Seniors need to ask the pharmacist the name of the medication so that they can be safe on the medication that they are taking. The pharmacist can help the seniors to understand when and how to take the medication. Seniors needs to overcome their fear of falling, accept support invites friends over and have the confidence in one’s self. To overcome fear of falling, wear prop-

er footwear and exercise regularly.

Provincial Programs and Services is a big help for seniors.

(Taken from Programs and Services for Seniors 20142015) 1. Alberta Seniors Benefit

-The Alberta Seniors Benefit (ASB) program is based on income and provides monthly benefits to eligible seniors. ASB provides financial assistance which supplements federal programs, including Old Age Security and the Guaranteed Income Supplement.

2. Special Needs Assistance for Seniors

-Provides financial assistance to eligible low-income seniors to assist with extraordinary costs such as appliances, essential home repairs and some medical expenses. In general, single seniors with an annual income of $26,200 or less, and senior’s couples with a combined annual income of $45,500 or less, may qualify for the Alberta Seniors Benefit and Special needs assistance program.

3. Dental Assistance for Seniors

-Provides up $5,000 of

diaryofilipino.com

Seniors Information & Safety basic dental coverage every five years.

4. Optical Assistance for Seniors

- Provides up to $230 for prescription eyeglasses every three years.

5. Elder Abuse

-A series of community- based agencies are resources are available to help individuals who suspect that elder abuse may be occurring. Call the Alberta Supports Contact Centre or visit health.alberta.ca. You may also call the Family Violence info line at 310-1818 6. Alberta Blue Cross Coverage for Seniors

-Provides premium-free Blue Cross coverage for seniors and their eligible dependents for specific health-related benefits. Coverage includes prescription drugs listed on the Alberta Drug Benefit List, supplies for insulin dependent diabetics, ambulance services, clinical psychological services, home nursing care and chiropractic services. Seniors may be responsible for a portion of the cost of these health

benefits. Seventy percent of prescription drug costs are covered, and seniors pay a maximum of 25$ per prescription or refill.

7. Seniors Self-Contained Housing Program

-Local housing management bodies provide affordable apartments for low-income seniors who cannot afford private-sector housing. Call 780-4220122 for more information.

Seniors can ask help from the Federal Programs and Services.

(Taken from Programs and Services for Seniors 20142015) 1. Canada Pension Plan

-Paid monthly to those who have contributed to the Canada Pension Plan.

Payments may begin as early as the age 60. Survivor benefits are also available through this program.

2. Old Age Security

-Paid monthly to seniors who are 65 and over, and who have lived in Canada for a minimum of 10 years.

3. Guaranteed Income

Supplement

-Paid monthly to seniors who receive Old Age Security and have little or no other income. The guaranteed income supplement is added to the old age security payment.

4. The Allowance/Allowance for the Survivor

-Paid monthly to low-income Canadians aged 60-64, whose spouse or common-law partner receives the guaranteed income supplement or has passed away.

For more information: Alberta Supports Contact Centre; Toll-free 1-877-6449992

In Edmonton: 780-6449992 To contact toll-free in Alberta to any Alberta Government office, dial 310-000 followed by the area code and phone number of the office you wish to reach.

Government of Canada Income Programs: Toll Free: 1-800-277-9914 www.servicecanada.gs.ca

diaryofilipino.com

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Health

continued from page 11

Ice Carving Experts

Poland, USA and Canada every winter and brought home medals after medals.

2016 is quite a different year. After few years of being competitors, Ross Baisas and Victor Dagatan joined forces to keep the title for Team Philippines and they definitely achieved it . They received GOLD medal for their creation “Once Upon A Time” @ the 22nd Annual Ice Magic Festival’ Return of the Best!

So it is a great privilege for Diaryo Filipino to feature two faces and listen to the hearts of Champions in this month of hearts.

DF: How did you know each other?

Ross/Victor: We are classmates back in grade school at Paete Laguna, Philippines DF: How did you learn the art and skills of ice carving?

Victor/Ross: We worked as helpers in wood carving factory to have extra

money for school projects.

DF: What can you share with aspirant carvers to achieve what you have achieved?

Ross/Victor: Never stop learning and improving. lLearn from experts, be patient with yourself and more practice. Success doesn’t happen overnight.

DF: How did you both honed your skills and talents?

Victor/Ross: Use drawings and watch videos online on how to improve on your learned skills. PRACTICE and more PRACTICE. DF: How did you learn ice carving when there’s no snow in the Philippines?

Ross/Victor: You can use different media such as drawing, soap, wood , fruits and vegetables.

DF: Do you get use to being respected as champions all the time?

Victor/Ross: No, you must stay humble, learn from your own mistakes and

QUESTIONS? visit our website www.diaryofilipino.com/community

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

be your own critic. Every competition is like competing for the first time.

DF: How did your team managed to keep your CHAMPION status for this competition?

Victor/Ross: Stay humble, time management and utilizing our individual strengths to contribute for the win.

DF: What would you recommend to all DF Readers, rookie carvers and professional like you are?

Ross/Victor: Follow your passion, hone your skills, patience, humility and never give up.

DF: Thank you very much for bringing pride to the Philippines, Canada and USA. Also for allowing with this exclusive interview.

Victor/Ross: You are welcome DF and thank you for using us as inspirations by featuring good news for the Filipinos here in Canada and the world!

17

34 countries report Zika virus UNITED NATIONS, Feb. 17 (PNA/Xinhua) -- A senior official from the World Health Organization (WHO) said here Tuesday that currently 34 countries have reported the Zika virus, mostly in the Americas and Caribbean, and seven reported an increase in cases of microcephaly.

Natela Menabde, the executive director of the WHO Office in New York, told UN member states during a briefing to the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) that Brazil has registered more than 4,700 suspected cases of microcephaly and a quarter were only studied for the moment. Before the outbreak of the virus, the average number of microcephaly every year was of 163 cases.

“The increase we see now is definitely a source of serious concern,” she said.

Upon the Zika virus outbreak, WHO launched a global strategy to guide the international response to the spread of the virus and the neonatal malformations and neurological conditions associated with it, she said.

The strategy, also known as the Strategic Response Framework and Joint Operations Plan, focuses on mobilizing and coordinating partners, experts and resources to help countries enhance surveillance of the Zika

virus and disorders that could be linked to it, improve vector control, effectively communicate risks, guidance and protection measures, provide medical care to those affected and fast-track research and development of vaccines, diagnostics and therapeutics.

She said that USD 56 million are required to implement the strategy, of which 25 million dollars would fund the joint response of WHO, the Regional Office foe the Americas (AMRO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and USD 31 million would fund the work of key partners.

In the interim, WHO has tapped a recently established emergency contingency fund to finance its initial operations, she said.

As art of WHO’s new emergency program, the global health agency activated an Incident Management System to oversee the global response and leverage expertise from across the organization to address the crisis. WHO is tapping a recently established emergency contingency fund to finance its initial operations.

In his remarks, ECOSOC President Oh Joon, who is the permanent representative of South Korea to the UN, recalled that on Feb. 1, based on recommenda-

tions of the International Health Regulations Emergency Committee, WHO declared the increasing cases of neonatal and neurological disorders amid the growing Zika outbreak in the Americas a public health emergency.

Zika is a virus transmitted by the Aedes mosquito. It was first discovered in 1947 in the Zika forest of Uganda.

“The health threat associated with the Zika Virus disease in Latin America and the Caribbean is very real,” he said, adding that the rise of microcephaly cases and other neurological disorders in the affected regions is extremely worrying.

All this raises the question of preparedness of health systems and institutions to respond to the needs of infected women and men, children born with microcephaly, and their families, especially their mothers, he said.

Over the years, ECOSOC convened special meetings to address global public health emergencies and promote a coordinated strategic response to, among others the outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in 2003, avian flu in 2005 and Ebola in 2014.

“We have learned from the past outbreaks that health emergencies have economic and social implications,” Oh said.

(PNA/Xinhua)

18

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Makialam ni Kiko Ibarra

10 words

Lalaki Ako, Babae Ka. DF

Kiko Ibarra WRITER

Si Bishop Frederick Bernard Henry ng Catholic Diocese of Calgary ang nagbigay inspirasyon sa akin na isulat ang pinag-uusapang gusot sa alituntuning pampaaralan na inilatag ng gobyernong partido NDP tungkol sa pagkakakilanlan ng kasarian dito sa Alberta. May petisyon patungkol dito na nasa wikang Ingles,hindi ko na isinalin sa tagalog,ito’y mula sa www.citizengo.org.

Talaga namang hindi tayo makuntento sa kasariang ipinagkaloob ng Diyos sa atin.

Dala ng pagbabago ng partidong pamamahala sa gobyerno ng Alberta,hindi maiiwasang maging malamya ang paninindigan sa konserbatibong istilo ng lipunan sa usapin ng kasarian.Ngayon pa lang,sinasabi na hindi ko hangad ang diskriminasyon sa mga alanganin at nag-aalangang kasarian bagkus nais ko lang muling ilatag at ipaalala ang itinakdang kasarian ng tao.Hindi pwedeng hindi

SHOWBIZ

makialam sa alam na tama at makabuluhan dahil sukdulan na ang inabot ng ideolohiya ng kasarian,ang ating pagkatao at pagsasama sa lipunan ay unti-unting nawawasak dala ng hindi pagkakaunawaan sa usaping ito.Malamang,ang isusunod nila diyan ay ang pagkasira ng pangunahing sangay ng lipunan-ang pamilya.Hay,naku!ang tao nga naman.

Malaya naman tayong lahat sa mga nais nating gawin huwag lang sumagasa sa karapatang pantao at may respeto sa pananalig ng nakakaraming mamamayan.Sabi nga,”kahit na ano mang magandang layuning maka-Diyos,ang tao ay tao pa rin”,at hanggat hindi natin naintindihan ang pinagdadaanan ng mga bakla,tomboy o LGBTQ(lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender, questioning),meron at merong pang-aabuso,pagkukutya o diskriminasyon sa kanila,hindi ito maitatanggi.Nakikita lang natin ang mga maling pananaw ng kanilang kalagayan,tila sila lang ang nakaka-unawa ng kanilang sitwasyon.

Kahit ganyan sila, dapat pa rin natin silang ma-

halin at tulungan.Maging mahinahon,maunawain at maibigin ang ating pakikipagrelasyon sa LGBTQ dahil tayo’y pinanday sa pagiging tunay na maka-Diyos.Sila din ay may paniniwala sa Dakilang Maylikha at may kaluluwang iniingatan.

Tulad din natin na may kahinaan sa tunay na pagsuko sa kagustuhan ng Diyos.

Hindi pamantayan ang pisikal na kaanyuan kundi ang busilak nitong konsensiya at ang magagawa niyang kabutihan sa kapwa-tao.

Malay natin,ang nararamdaman at idinidikta ng isip ng isang bakla o tomboy o LGBTQ ay maari pang magbago,kailangan lang nila ng tulong o kaagapay sa proseso ng pagpapakatotoo kung sino talaga sila sa usapin ng pagkakakilanlan sa kasarian.Ang pag-unlad ng siyensiya o agham ay lalong humahamon sa pananagutan natin sa kapwa-tao na magmahal.

Kung ipinanganak kang babae na may pusong lalaki at pakiramdam na lalaki,nasa iyo ang desisyon,o maari mo ring sabihing ito’y isang pagsubok na nakaatang sa buhay mo.Mahirap din lang intindihin sa aking sarili

diaryofilipino.com

na sinasabi mong ikaw ay lalaki kung ang katotohanan naman ay ipinanganak kang babae.Iyan ay pagtanggi sa tunay mong pagkatao.

Nilikha tayo ng Diyos na babae o lalaki at hindi na dapat baguhin iyon. Hindi pagpapakatotoo na baguhin ang orihinal na ikaw para sa panibago mong pagkatao.

Ipinanganak kang babae o lalaki at iyan ay totoo.

Nalalagay sa alanganing sitwasyon ang LGBTQ dahil wala ring puknat o tigil ng kawalang balyus sa moralidad o kabutihang - moral na halos nasa hukay na, gaya ng pagtatalik ng parehong kasarian at ang unti-unting pagwasak sa komposisyon ng pamilya. Ito ba ng tamang katinuan ng lipunan?

Tila tayo ay nakabaon sa guni-guni ng katotohanan, tayo ay naniniwala lamang sa nararamdaman ng katawan at ang kapalaran ay gawa-gawa lamang na kayang hubugin ng tao.

Ninais ba ng Diyos na ikaw ay maging bakla, tomboy o parehas na bakla-tomboy o nag-aalangan pa sa kasarian? O sarili nating kapasyahan?

Kayang baguhin ng Diyos ang pinakamalambot, pinakamatigas na

1. Kasarian- gender 2. Diskriminasyon-discrimination 3. Petisyon-petition 4. Malamya- lukewarm 5. Lipunan- society 6. Pangunahin- basic 7. Karapatang-pantao- human rights 8. Maunawain- understanding 9. Kahinaan- weakness 10. Busilak- pure puso at pinakamalamig na kaluluwa. Walang sakit sa kaluluwa na hindi kaya ng Diyos. Kaya nating panindigan na maging lalaki o babae, kung anuman tayo ipinanganak, yun nga lang ,kung gusto natin. Kung minsan tayo at hindi na ang Diyos ang nagdidikta kung ano ang tama at mali.

Sa alituntuning nilabas ni Ginoong David Eggen, Kalihim sa Edukasyon ng Alberta para sa lahat ng eskwelahan kasama na ang Katolikong paaralan, nakasaad dito ang mga pamantayan ng pagkakilanlan sa kasarian.Ang naging

komplikado,hindi lang lalaki o babae ang kasarian.

Pinapalala ng gobyernong Alberta ang paghahanap ng tunay na solusyon sa kasarian ng tao,mismong mga mag-aaral ang pinapamili kung anong kasarian nila. Bakit hindi na lang birth certificate ang legal na dokumento na pwedeng gamitin ng mga eskwelahan sa pagkakakilanlan ng kasarian. “You can never change the truth about yourself no matter what.”

Babalik tayo sa orihinal na respeto sa Diyos, bakit natin babaguhin ang itinakda Niyang kasarian sa iyo?

“On the Wings of Love” bids farewell on February 26

WILL CLARK AND LEAH FIND THEIR WAY BACK INTO LOVE? Destiny will always find a way to bring back old lovers together as the hit Kapamilya show “On the Wings of Love” top billed

by James Reid and Nadine Lustre nears its finale on February 26 (Fri).

Set to end in 10 days, “On the Wings of Love” has turned into a phenomenal hit among Filipinos worldwide since it premiered in August 2015 as it captivated audiences with the heartfelt love story of Clark and Leah.

Critics and fans alike also praised how the show championed OFW issues by delving into thorough research to properly depict it in “On the Wings of Love.”

As such, the show co sistently garners strong ratings, beating its rival program. Avid viewers who want to catch-up and do marathons watch it via iWant TV, catapulting “On the Wings of Love” in the catch up service’s list of most watched programs.

Even the show’s merchandise and scrapbooks rule best sellers list, proving how the show is a big hit among Filipinos of all ages in the country and abroad.

“On the Wings of Love” related events such as the “OTWOL Spread The

Love Tour,” “Kapamilya Krismas3,” and other mall shows here and abroad also score record breaking attendance.

With “On the Wings of Love” drawing to a close, viewers are hooked on the last remaining days to find out if Clark and Leah will eventually reconnect and pick up the pieces to start over again.

Fans are also excited to see what will push Clark and Leah to fly back to San Francisco, the place where their love story all began.

But with Simon revealing his true feelings for Leah, things will get more complicated, especially since Simon will be with Leah in San Francisco.

How will Simon’s presence in San Francisco affect Clark and Leah’s long-awaited reunion?

Will San Francisco play a vital role to make the old lovers find their way back into love?

With the string of achievements of “On the Wings of Love” for six months now, its lead stars James and Nadine are also further cementing their status as the Philippines’ hottest love team.

In fact, James and Nadine’s first major

concert “Jadine Love,” this Saturday (Feb 20) sold out in just one day after it was announced in December.

Official merchandise will also be available during the concert at ABS-CBN Store booths at the Red and Green lobbies of Araneta.

Due to the clamor of Jadine fans overseas, James and Nadine will even hold a “Jadine Love” World Tour presented by TFC in March.

James and Nadine are set to heat up Europe and the Middle East as they visit Doha (March 18), Dubai (March 19), London (March 26), and Milan (March 27).

Through “On the Wings of Love,” James and Nadine have also been recognized by various award-giving bodies. This year, James is nominated in the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards for Favorite Pinoy Personality, while Nadine led the MYX Music Awards race with six nominations including Favorite Artist and Best Music Video Award, among others.

Don’t miss the last days of “On the Wings of Love,” weeknights after “Dolce Amore” on ABSCBN Primetime Bida.

diaryofilipino.com

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

J

Juan More Hirit

Matalino si Juan Teacher: May 5 ibon, binaril ko ang isa. Ilan ang natira?

Juan: Wala po ma’am.

Teacher: Tanga ka ba?

Binaril ko nga iyung isa eh. Marunong ko ba magbilang?

Juan: BOBO ka ba ma’am? Edi shempre umalis iyung iba. Pag ikaw ba binaril katabi mo steady ka lang dun? Umupo ka nga rito. Ako magtuturo.

Naaksidente si Juan Juan:Sir may irereport po ako.

Pulis:Ano un? At bakit?

Juan:Nabangga po ako ng sasakayan.

Pulis:kelan? saan?

Juan:kanina lng po.

Pulis:Anong sasakayan?

Juan:Van po Sir. Pulis;nakuha mo ba plate number?

Juan:Hindi po. pulis:Bakit?

Juan:eh…kasi..nakaturnilyo eh!

Di Kasali si Juan TEACHER: Class, magpapa-class picture tayo para paglaki nyo, sasabihin nyo ay: “wow si dodong police na,… wow si inday teacher na,wow si tomas doctor na, diba?

Juan and whole class: Opo! Juan tumayo at ….

JUAN: wow si mam! …...PATAY NA..

TEACHER: umupo ka Juan.. wag kang sasali dito!

Moral Support si Juan Sa sabungan walang entrance fee ang may dalang panabong ..Si juan para makalibre pumasok may dalang sisiw ..

Bantay: hoy!! ano yan?

Juan: (galit pa) manok!! bakit?

Bantay: alam ko .. eh bakit sisiw??

Juan: heller?? di ba lang may laban ang ama niya siyempre dapat lang may moral support noh .. !!!

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

19

Mannychanic

Manny Perez WRITER

Vehicle Safety...Did you check?

Your safety depends on the condition of your vehicle. It’s the driver’s responsibility to maintain all equipment. Don’t wait for your yearly inspection.

Keep the owner’s manual in the glove compartment.

Check it regularly to note scheduled service reminders and to log maintenance. Oil changes every 5,000 to 7,000 kilometers provide increased mileage, lower oil consumption and improve trade-in value.

Save yourself money, headache and the trouble of a breakdown. Learn to detect signs of wear and tear. Catch danger while it’s still only a little trouble.

Take safety precautions to reduce your personal risk. Use safety equipment, including safety belts, speedometer, etc.

Maintain your vehicle and all equipment. Know and obey traffic laws.

Drive defensively.

Periodically Manually Check: • Fluid Levels: oil, wipers, coolant, power steering, brake and transmission;

W

• Brakes: for firmness; • Tire Pressure: and treads - keep an eye out for uneven wear; • Light Bulbs: in the trunk, under the hood and in the glove compartment; • All Lights: front, high and low beam, brake lights, directional and interior lights; • Belts, hoses and wires for wear, loosening or dislocation; • Horn; • Spare tire and access to it. Gardening gloves for changing tires; • Contents of First Aid and Car Safety Kit: update and replenish as necessary.

If your car should become disabled, try to get well clear of the road. Keep an emergency road kit in your trunk. Warn oncoming cars with lights, flares and a raised hood. See your dealer or mechanic whenever you detect abnormal signs.

SEAT BELT

WIKIPEDIA A seat belt, also known as a safety belt, is a vehicle safety device designed to secure the occupant of a vehicle against harmful movement that may result during a collision or a sudden stop. A seat belt functions to reduce the likelihood of death or serious injury in a traffic collision by reducing the force of secondary impacts with interior strike hazards, by keeping occupants positioned correctly for maximum effectiveness of the airbag (if equipped) and by preventing occupants being ejected from the vehicle in a crash or if the vehicle rolls over. When driving, the driver and passengers are travelling at the same speed as the car. If the car suddenly stops or crashes, the driver and passengers continue at the same speed the car was going before it stopped. A seatbelt applies an opposite force to the driver and passengers to prevent them from falling out or making contact with the interior of the car.

Seatbelts are considered as Primary Restraint Systems (PRS) as they play a vital role in occupant safety.

Child occupants Infant car seat As with adult drivers and passengers, the advent of seat belts was accompanied by calls for their use by child occupants, including legislation requiring

such use. Generally children using adult seat belts suffer significantly lower injury risk when compared to non-buckled children.

The UK extended compulsory seatbelt wearing to child passengers under the age of 14 in 1989. It was observed that this measure was accompanied by a 10% increase in fatalities and a 12% increase in injuries among the target population. In crashes, small children who wear adult seatbelts can suffer “seatbelt syndrome” injuries including severed intestines, ruptured diaphragms and spinal damage. There is also research suggesting that children in inappropriate restraints are at significantly increased risk of head injury, one of the authors of this research has been quoted as claiming that: “The early graduation of kids into adult lap and shoulder belts is a leading cause of child-occupant injuries and deaths.”

As a result of such findings, many jurisdictions now advocate or require child passengers to use specially designed child restraints.

Such systems include separate child-sized seats with their own restraints and booster cushions for children using adult restraints.

In some jurisdictions children below a certain size are forbidden to travel in front car seats.”

“Canada was built by citizen immigrants, people who come here permanently with their families to become Canadians.”

- Hon. John McCallum, MP Minister of Immigration, Rufugees and Citizenship

Respond to Canada’s need for immigrants.

Become a Regulated Immigration Consultant Full-time | Part-time | Online Contact a program adviser or apply online today.

604.899.0803 | 1.866.759.6006 www.ashtoncollege.ca Ashton College

we build careers

20

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

Spiritual

The Season of Lent reminds us of Christ’s teaching about mercy and forgiveness.

In our lives, we are subjected to a retaliation mentality that affects us all. From the sports arena to the criminal justice system, forgiveness or anything that amounts to it is regarded as a weakness.

Nothing in the Christian life gospel is more radical and more challenging than the mandate to love our enemies, to do good to those who mistreat us or to lend without any expectation of return. Jesus becomes our model for such unconditional love and mercy in his entire ministry, especially as when he was dying on the cross.

We find it very easy to desire retaliation against those who hurt or hate us.

We find this human tendency creeping into our personal lives. We want to get even with others.

If our loved ones hurt us even in some little way, we sometimes find ourselves saying to ourselves

encounter in social places, fellow parishioners or priests who don’t respond to our cheerful greeting or those motorists who irritate us on the road.

Will it be our best self or our worst self that responds? Each encounter becomes an opportunity to become more like Jesus who was able to say at the last moment of his life: “Father, forgive them, they do not know what they do.” Hanging on the cross in Calvary, Jesus utters a prayer of forgiveness for the very people who have brought him excruciating pain and eventual death.

These loving and forgiving words capture Christ’s basic attitude in human relationships.

During this Jubilee of Mercy, let us all reflect on this basic Christian mandate to love and forgive with every breath that we take, just as Christ was forgiving until the last breath of his life.

Let our mentality of love and forgiveness become a legacy to a world that is filled with hatred, revenge and indifference. Let us strive to make mercy and forgiveness not only an occasional act, but a permanent attitude.

Zodiac 101

AQUARIUS

Aquarius is the eleventh sign of the Zodiac: The Eleventh House is commonly referred to as the House of Friends.

Through our friends, we find strength in numbers -- we see the power of the collective, the group.

Aquarius is symbolized by the Water Bearer: Brings that precious liquid as a gift, Aquarians shower the world with their thoughts and new ideas.

They are at a near-genius level, so their minds churn out some amazing things. Their thought process is also inventive and original.

Aquarius is ruled by planets Saturn and Uranus:The combination of these planetary energies is strong and vibrant.

Saturn’s force field is that of the stern taskmaster, which is one reason why Aquarians love to think and put their ideas out to the world. They also love to think they’re right!

It’s Uranus which instills Aquarians with their

visionary spirit. Uranus brings with it a new way of looking at things, and its approach is best met with an expanded consciousness.

Aquarius is associated with element Air: Airy people are smart thinkers and handle abstract reasoning well. They love to analyze, synthesize and probe.

Aquarians can accomplish much with their broad and logical minds, entertaining complex and scientific

Romy Honorio COLUMNIST

Last month a good friend of mine asked, “What do you think 2016 will be like?” Deep inside I felt good. Dreaming and imaging about the new year provided hope but at the same time I felt bad. I’ve never seen nor touched a crystal ball in my life. His concerns stemmed from major events that dominated 2015.

The collapse of the oil industry, sliding value of dollar, spike in food prices, never ending layoffs, deteriorating value of investments, menace of terrorism, legalization of pot, refugee crisis, chaos in the middle east, and many more social issues – were enough to make many desperate and hopeless.

Undoubtedly, relationships were also impacted. Financial projections missed the mark. Ultimately, all of this affected our daily routine at home and work.

That was then, 2015.

One day while napping, my cell vibrated. A friend shared to me how his family finances were threatened by the pressure of in-laws back in the Philippines. Another friend on Employment Insurance up-

dated me on how difficult it was to start a small business with Red tape as the culprit. A mother the other night called and poured her hearts out to me about her teen’s identity crisis.

Another couple drove to the hospital to visit their son on suicide watch.

A number of parents close to us were in despair, too.

They wondered what was happening in the world with unhealthy relationships on the horizon and cloudy and unstable financial futures.

As my wife and I contemplated and prayed for the issues of our friends, we were relieved from our very own issues. Fact is we are not alone in the struggles and woes of life.

We closed the door of 2015,

and entered a new realm of depositories of events (including struggles) in a humanity’s time continuum.

“A lot of what is most beautiful about the world arises from struggle.” Malcolm Gladwell once said.

Only the fools and insane hardly understand the positive value of struggle.

From the ashes of struggle rises one’s noble character.

This is now, 2016. Let’s face it with confidence.

Let’s heed Joshua’s admonition: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Please, release me!

ROMY PHOTO

Horoscope

or at least thinking about getting back at them.

God’s mercy challenges us to a much higher standard. And then there is that daunting implication of that part in the Lord’s Prayer when we ask God to forgive us in the same way that we forgive others.

God also provides us with powerful witness of his love and mercy, showing us that it is possible to embrace the perpetrators as well as the victims of crimes. The heroic witness of forgiving victims is an inspiration to put into practice the infinite mercy of God in own respective lives.

There is a story about a former inmate of a Nazi concentration Camp who visited a friend who shared the ordeal with him. “Have you forgiven the Nazis?”, he asked.

“Yes”, his friend answered.

“Well, I haven’t. I’m still consumed with hatred for them”, he retorted. “In that case”, his friend said gently, “They still have you in prison”.

In daily transactions with others, we have lots of opportunities to practice this demanding imperative. There are those unfriendly people we

Struggle: That was then, this is now!

ROMY PHOTO

COLUMNIST

diaryofilipino.com

YMOR

Be merciful…. like the Father.

Fr. Edmund Vargas

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Romy Honorio COLUMNIST

ideas for the betterment of all. That said, they are also artistic and inventive. It’s all in the spirit of creating a better world, hopefully one in keeping with their broad-minded beliefs.

Aquarians are the perfect representatives for the Age of Aquarius.

Those born under this sign have the social conscience needed to carry us into the new millennium. These folks are humanitarian, philanthropic and keenly interested in making the world a better place.

“Let me go!” said Carol (not her real name) iPhone glued to her left ear. “For I don’t love you anymore”, she added with tears in her eyes. “Release me, let me go!” still sobbing.

Sounds familiar, eh?

Yes, in this age of chaos, uncertainties and confusion the song is a soothing melody to many hurting hearts. However, the phrase is not only for human relationship. It could also be true to various items in our lives.

For one, clutters in a friend’s basement begged, “Release us for you don’t love us anymore!” They were created, bought and made available for important use. They wanted to feel valued. Giving them away could make other people happy.

Our burping and farting, releasing excess gas brings comfort to the host and “yuck” to the receiver. While riding on the C-train, where you the host or the receiver?

What about our body odour (BO)? We do really need to check our diet

and visit to the cosmetics section of a drug store for anti BO. Our sweat’s automatic release is a mechanism to regulate our body’s temperature.

Cool, eh?

The mucus and phlegm don’t need to talk more about these stuffs.

Just release these out so you will feel relieved!

When one is hurt, insulted, abused or assaulted, adrenaline is released into our system to stave off danger. In some occasions it enables one to do impossible feats and feel limitless in the face of heights or weights.

The Government budget release tends to cause intense debate and acrimony between political parties, making or breaking a country’s economy.

An inmate’s parole and release bring closure and healing. It may even mean new life and challenges for good. Release

from the hospital emanates relief and hope from a patient’s face.

A release of Permanent Resident Documents to TFW is like heaven.

Dreams are within reach.

Save, save, save and save more!

Letting go (releasing) is a positive act that the world badly needs at this age. At a personal level, letting go (releasing) our prejudices, hatred, envy, jealousy, malice, contempt, swearing, discrimination, greed and selfishness will make our lives (and the lives of people around us) livable and peaceful.

Releasing is possible because of love. Wouldn’t you think loving is like releasing the best in us for the best of others?

Valentine’s Day is a good start to do some “Releasing”! Release your worry, let the air carry you over.

diaryofilipino.com

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

21

from the Readers: Madame KC

KC

MadameKC

“Hindi mo siya pwedeng pilitin na mahalin ka. Pero pwede mong ipamukha sa kanya kung ano ang sinayang niya”.

WRITER

Dear Madam KC,

Meron nga bang forever? Siguro kung meron man isa ako sa pinagkaitan ni Kupido.

Sa tagal na panahon at dami ng simbahan na pinakasalan namin ni Troy nauwi din kami sa divorce.

Love month na naman, first year ko mag celebrate mag isa.

Wala namang third party, hindi lang talaga siguro meant kami mag tagal. Maraming bagay kami na di pinag kasunduan at natuloy din sa hiwalayan.

Minsan nakakapagod din mag explain sa mga tao kung bakit?

Maligaya ba ako? Ok lang ba ako?

Meron bang hiwalayan na masaya?

Syempre wala, masakit pero kailangan mag move-on. Smile pa din kahit hurting inside.

Di ko hangad na mag ka love life ulit (pag meron why not, pero wag naman agadagad).

Nakakapagod din pala, lalo na pag binuhos mo lahat-lahat tapos mauuwi din sa wala.

What is life after divorce nga ba?

Samantha Dear Samantha, There is no such thing as “forever” sabi nga nila. The only thing that is constant is “change”.

Ang kaligayahan mo ay hindi dapat maging basehan kung ano ang sasabihin ng ibang tao.

Let your wound heal in time.

Tama ang attitude na “smile padin kahit hurting inside”. Dapat maging matatag ka at hindi mo kailangan mag explain.

You don’t owe it to anyone. Embrace change, the choice is yours.

If you decide to find new love: “The key to succeeding in a relationship is not finding the right person; it’s learning to love the person you found”.

Sustaining love is not a passive or spontaneous

experience. You have to work on it day in and day out. It takes time, effort, and energy. And most importantly, it demands wisdom. You have to know what to do to make it work.

Make no mistake about it.

Love is not a mystery.

There are specific things you can do (with or without your partner). Just as there are physical laws of the universe (such as gravity), there are also laws for relationships. If you know how to apply these laws, the results

are predictable.

Love is therefore a “decision”, not just a feeling.

If you decide to stay single; remember this always: God determines who walks into your life. It is up to you to decide who you let walk away, who you let stay, and who you refuse to let go.

Madame KC

“When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be. When I let go of what I have, I receive what I need.”

SEND YOUR STORIES TO madamekc.diaryofilipino@gmail.com SHOWBIZ

Anne, Bagong Magpapatibok sa Puso ni Coco?

Aksyon na may halong kilig ang dala ng ‘I Love OPM’ at ‘It’s Showtime’ host na si Anne Curtis ngayong buwan ng Pebrero sa pagpasok niya sa buhay ng karakter ni Coco Martin sa numero unong teleserye sa primetime, ang “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano.” Kasalukuyang napapanood si Anne sa aksyon-serye bilang ang mayamang fashion designer na si Trina Trinidad na mayroong hindi maayos na relasyon sa kanyang stepfather na si Michael Alonzo, na ginagampanan naman ng beteranong aktor na si Christopher

De Leon. Dahil sa nagbabadyang panganib sa kanilang pamilya, magiging bodyguard nina Trina at Michael si Cardo (Coco Martin) at tutulungan silang hulihin ang mga masasamang loob na nagbabanta sa kanilang buhay. Paano maipagtatanggol ni Cardo sina Trina at Michael? Maging daan kaya ang pagiging bodyguard ni Cardo upang umusbong ang pagiibigan sa pagitan nila ni Trina?

Huwag palampasin ang mga ma-aksyong tagpo sa “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano,” gabi-gabi sa ABS-CBN. Para sa karagdagang

impormasyon kaugnay sa programa, bisitahin lamang ang official social networking site ng Dreamscape Entertainment Television sa Facebook.com/ DreamscapePH, Twitter. com/DreamscapePH, at Instagram.com/DreamscapePH.

“I Love OPM” Hits the Right Notes in Pilot Episodes; Wins National TV Ratings

ABS-CBN’s newest singing competition for non-Filipino singers who love Pinoy music, “I Love OPM,” premiered on a high note with a national TV rating of 24.8% last Saturday (Feb 13) and 20.0% last Sunday (Feb 14), according to data from Kantar Media.

The show, hosted

by Anne Curtis with Eric Nicolas, beat its rivals over the weekend which only hit 11.1% and 6.1% respectively.

Eight hopefuls, or called “Touristars,” auditioned but only six of them got the approval from the “Himigration Officers” composed of the Philippines’ Concert King Martin

Nievera, Asia’s Nightingale Lani Misalucha, and Ultimate Multimedia Star Toni Gonzaga.

Among those who made the cut were German-Irish Jeena Dimaandal captivated the crowd with her heartfelt version of Sharon Cuneta’s “Bituing walang ningning;” American heartthrob Ryan Gallagher made the women scream with “Himigration Officer” Martin Nievera’s “Kahit isang saglit;” Russian Anna Rabtsun surprised the audience with her rendition of Gloc 9’s “Sirena,” and Indian exchange-student Addy Raj serenaded the crowd with Daniel Padilla’s version of “Hinahanap-hanap kita”.

What OPM hits will be showcased next? Who will have the best love story on how they fell in love with the Philippines and Filipino music? Which country will be able to produce the foreigner whom can sing OPM the best?

“I Love OPM” is a firstof-it-kind singing contest for 100% non-Filipinos who love OPM music. It is an original concept by ABSCBN. Don’t miss “I Love OPM” every Saturday right after “MMK,” and every Sunday after “Rated K” on ABS-CBN. For updates, follow @iloveopmtv on Instagram and Twitter or like https://www.facebook.com/ iloveopm on Facebook.

22

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

Main Ingredient Marietta Pangan-Dutkoski ASST EDITOR IN-CHIEF

If you haven’y tasted Chocolate Suman Muron, then you haven’t been to the island of Leyte . This is according to Chef Ely Rowen Salar our featured chef of the month who was born in Bukidnon, but grew up in his mother’s hometown, Tacloban. According to his mom, Tacloban is also the birthplace of this delicious and creamy snack . It is made with combination of chocolate (tablea), coconut cream, cheese filling and rice flour wrapped in banana leaves, then steam.

Muron Suman is Leyte’s signature dessert, served during festivities.

Chef’s Ely’s comfort revolves around chocolate. There won’t be a day that will pass that he won’t satify his cravings for it. It as evidenced by his own creation and favourite dessert. It is the decadent, smooth and mouthwatering Chocolate Cake. According to him it his stress buster and happy pill, reminds him of special occasions in his life such as birthdays, Christmas and fun childhood. This could have been the sources of inspiration in creating his masterpieces as pastry chef, baker, sugar and chocolate and carver/artist. No wonder his cake was given the People’s Choice Award and 2nd placer during the Calgary Sugarcraft Cake Competition in 2015. Chef Ely together with his team from Delta Lodge Kananaskis will again show their talents and skills in creating new chocolate masterpieces in the upcoming Pastry Showcase 2016 competition at the of February.

Before Chef Ely became Demi Chef de Partie, he learned the art of baking at an early age of 13 from their family owned bakeshop. He knew that it is passion.

So he decided to pursue that dream by finishing up a degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management.

He also received different certificates and training international cuisines, food and beverage and advanced cake decorating. Although he earned years of experience in food and beverages

Yema Cheesecake Ingredients: Vanilla Sponge: 330g Cake flour 18g Baking powder ½ tsp Salt, ½ tsp Vanilla 150g Granulated sugar 100g Vegetable oil 6pcs Egg yolk, 175ml Water 6pcs Egg white 225g Granulated sugar 1/4tsp Cream of tartar

2016 February Feature Chef:

from several countries such as Asia, Middle East and North America, his heart is truly captured by baking. It is similar to his created fusion dessert, the Yema ( Milk Custard) Cheese Cake, where blending of different ingredients and trying new ideas come into life.

According to Chef Ely, “ I’ve always knew baking was my passion. Every time I make a cake, I felt a great deal of happiness when I see the smile from each person who tried what i did, it is priceless”.

“From that simple ingredients that I put together, it creates magic”, he added.

Just like his love for baking, even though lots of opportunities already came his way, his love for family and homeland never waived. In 2013, Chef Ely stayed in his hometown for couple of years right after the devastating Typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) swept their business in Tacloban. He helped his family and siblings rebuild their lives and livelihood back before he accepted an invitation from a friend to work in Canada .

At the 31, although not yet married, but enjoys the company of his girlfriend, Chef Ely want to make a mark in his chosen field. It all started with his Sansrival. The first cake he made that all his non Filipino friends and colleagues were impressed and liked. Constant cake orders for different occasions as requested by his peers made him realized that baking is truly his passion.

Six years after landing to Manitoba, now a Canadian citizen, Chef Ely continue to integrate himself to the culinary field.He continuously seeks knowledge in Pastry and Culinary Arts. He is active member Calgary Academy of Chefs and Cooks/Canadian Culinary Federation of Chefs and Cooks.In the future, Chef Ely is considering to start his own company. He also wants to share knowledge and skills to any aspiring pastry chefs, bakers and to those people that have the passion for baking and pastry art. He also want to stay in touch his roots by joining The Philippine Culinary Federation of Canada at present.

Yema Frosting: 4pcs Egg yolk 10g Cornstarch 180ml Evaporated milk 320ml Condensed milk 125ml Cream 150g White chocolate 25g Butter Cheesecake: 750g Cream cheese 150g Granulated sugar 3pcs Eggs 200g Sour cream 50ml 35% Cream

diaryofilipino.com

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Ely Rowen Salar

Almond Sansrival Ingredients: Meringue 90g Ground almond 70g Chopped cashew 35g All-purpose flour 6pcs Egg whites 1tsp Cream of tartar 230g Granulated sugar Sansrival Icing 170g Granulated sugar 60ml Water 6pcs Egg yolk 1/8 tsp Vanilla 340g Butter Procedure: Meringue

Combine ground almond, chopped cashews and all purpose flour and set aside. In a mixing bowl combine egg white and cream of tartar whip at medium speed, gradually add the sugar. Continue mixing on a high speed until medium peak. Fold in the flour mixture into the egg white.

Equally distribute the mixture into four 8” round pans.

Bake the meringue for 50 minutes or until dry.

Procedure: Vanilla Sponge Sift cake flour, baking powder and salt then set aside.

In a separate bowl, combine egg yolks, sugar, oil, water and vanilla. Beat in slow speed until mixture is smooth. Combine dry and wet mixture, continue mixing until well blended. Set aside.

On a mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar.

Gradually add sugar and con-

Sansrival Buttercream (French Buttercream) Make a pâte à bombe by combining sugar and water in a sauce pan. Set the saucepan over medium fire and allow the syrup to cook to 240 °F (soft ball stage) In a mixing bowl combine egg yolk and vanilla with wire whip attachment, beat for 10 minutes at high speed. When sugar reaches 240 °F, remove from heat. Reset the mixer to low speed and slowly pour the sugar syrup into the egg yolk.

Mix until well combined.

Let it cool Cream the butter in a mixing bowl with paddle attachment, occasionally scrape the bottom and side of the bowl. Continue creaming until volume increase.

Reset the mixer into low speed and slowly add the pâte à bombe. Continue mixing until well combined and smooth.

To assemble the cake: layer the cake by pipe the sansrival buttercream on the meringue, topped with chopped cashews.

Repeat this procedure until all the meringue are stacked.

Garnish the cake with almonds

tinue to beat until stiff. Fold flour mixture and egg white.

Pour into 2 separate round baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 347 °F for 40 minutes.

YEMA FROSTING In a shallow pan, boil evaporated milk and cream Combine egg yolk, condensed milk and cornstarch then temper warm milk mixture to egg yolk mixture.

Cook the mixture at low fire,

Chocolate Suman Muron “Creamy Choco Muron with Mango Caviar” Milk Mixture: 205g Rice flour 102g Glutinous rice flour 63ml Evaporated milk 80ml Condensed milk 250ml Coconut milk 100g Granulated sugar Chocolate Mixture: 205g Rice Flour 102g Glutinous Rice Flour 100g Dark Chocolate 375ml Coconut Milk 165g Brown Sugar pinch Salt 10g Butter Eden Cheese for Filling

Set aside and let it cool.

Chocolate Mixture: Melt Chocolate and butter in a double boiler then set aside Combine the rice flour, glutinous rice flour and salt together.

In a pan combine coconut milk and sugar until well blended then add the dry ingredients.

Cook the mixture in low heat stirring regularly.

Add melted chocolate and butter, keep stirring until thick and smooth Set aside and let it cool.

Wrap the Milk Suman and Chocolate Suman

Prepare the banana leaves brush with butter. Cut the banana leaves according to desired length.

Scoop about 1-2 tablespoon of chocolate mixture and Milk mixture: roll into a long tube shape.

Combine the rice flour and Repeat this procedure on glutinous rice flour together milk suman. then set aside.

In a pan combine evaporated Place the rolled milk suman milk, condensed milk, coconut beside the chocolate suman add the cheese in the middle milk and sugar until well then twist together. blended then add the dry Wrap tightly with the banana ingredients.

Cook the mixture in low heat leaf. Tie both sides with strings to secure stirring regularly until thick Steam for 30 to 45 minutes and smooth. until cooked.

Procedure: Cook the two suman separately.

continuously stirring until the texture becomes thick.

Remove from heat then add butter, mix well. Add white chocolate continue mixing until well incorporated.

Cheesecake In a mixing bowl mix cream cheese and sugar using a paddle attachment for 2 minutes Gradually add sour cream and liquid cream, continue mixing. Add eggs, scrape the

side of the bowl to make sure there are no lumps. Pour the mixture in a round baking pan. Bake at 300 °F for 30 minutes To Assemble Soak the sponge cake with orange syrup or simple syrup.

Spread yema frosting on the 1st vanilla sponge cake.

Layer with cheesecake then top with the 2nd vanilla sponge.

Glaze the cake with Yema frosting Garnish with white chocolate shavings.

diaryofilipino.com

FEBRUARY 15 - MARCH 15, 2016

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

23

Showbiz Eugene Domingo stars in DEAR UGE, Philippine TV’s “Dolce Amore,” Binihag Agad ang Puso ng mga Manonood first comedy anthology GMA Network never fails to bring happier days to every Kapuso as it launches the first comedy anthology in the country with Dear Uge. It premieres internationally on February 15 via GMA’s flagship international channel GMA Pinoy TV.

Dear Uge is hosted by no less than award-winning comedienne/actress and TV host Eugene Domingo, who is very thrilled about her latest show in the Kapuso Network. She is very happy and proud of the show’s concept which is one-of-a kind, amusing, and primed to bring “kilig” to TV viewers.

“I believe it’s pioneering, this type of TV show.

This time mas light ang topic and most definitely, funny side ng love ang ipapakita,” says Eugene.

[Translation: “I believe it’s pioneering, this type of TV show. This time, the topic is lighter and we’re most definitely showing the funny side of love.”]

In Dear Uge, the stories, characters and plot twists will be entertaining. Even Eugene’s hosting and narration will be comical and have an identity of its own.

In the show, she is Urbana

Genoveva Esperanza, a ‘variety store’ owner who hosts a web show called Dear Uge. She will also have a charming sidekick played by Divine Grace Aucina, a theatre actress from the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA).

Making this show unique and exciting are Eugene’s cameo roles in each episode. Aside from the talented cast in lead roles, she will play various interesting characters that will have home viewers laughing out loud with her comedic antics and hilarious performances.

“Habang may binabasa akong sulat, lumalabas din ako sa kwento, taking up different roles every week.

Ito rin yung unang unang nagustuhan ko sa concept, meron din akong iba’t ibang characters every episode, and I’ll be able to act with different actors na gustong-gusto ko, and also different directors in very light, nakakaaliw na episodes. Kaya I’m very, very excited,” adds Eugene.

[Translation: While I am reading a letter, I’ll also be appearing in the story, taking up different roles every week. This was also the first thing I liked about the concept – that I had different characters every ep-

isode, that I’ll be able to act with different actors that I really like, and also different directors in very light, entertaining episodes. So I’m very, very excited,” adds Eugene.]

Prepare to laugh and fall in love with the heart-warming and funny stories in Dear Uge beginning February 15 on GMA Pinoy TV.

Get the latest updates about Dear Uge from the GMA Network website www.

GMANetwork.com, from its official facebook page www. facebook.com/GMADearUge , and twitter account @ GMADearUge.

To see your favourite Kapuso shows on GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV and GMA News TV International, check the airing schedules in your territory through the website www.gmanetwork. com/international/programguide.

Agad na nabighani at napaibig ang sambayanan sa pinakabagong primetime teleseryeng “Dolce Amore” na pinagbibidahan nina Liza Soberano at Enrique Gil dahil nagwagi ang pilot episode nito sa ratings.

Ayon sa datos mula sa Kantar Media, nagtala ang pilot nito kagabi (Feb 15) ng national TV rating na 35.6%, o higit sa doble ng “That’s My Amboy” ng GMA na nagkamit lang ng 15.8%.

Sa matamis na pagsisimula ng serye, ipinasilip na ang kinalakihang buhay ni Serena (Liza) matapos ampunin ng Italian socialites na sina Roberto (Ruben Maria Soriquez) at Luciana (Cherie Gil).

Bilang sanggol, nahiwalay si Serena mula sa tunay niyang mga magulang na sina Alice at Uge (Sunshine Cruz at Andrew E) dahil sa gulo sa bansang Askovia.

Nariyan din si Tenten, na kilala bilang Simon (Enrique Gil) sa ampunan at ang kanyang kagustuhang magkaroon ng isang pamilyang magmamahal sa kanya. Doon niya nakilala ang kusinerang si Taps (Rio Locsin), ang asa-

wa niyang si Dodoy (Bobot Mortiz), at anak nilang si Binggoy.

Ngayong alam na ni Serena na ampon siya, mas mapapalapit ang kanyang puso sa mga batang ampon at ulila at magdedesisyong mag-donate sa ampunan ni Simon sa Pilipinas. Mula dito, makakahanap sila ng

kaibigan sa pamamagitan ng pagsulat sa isa’t isa bilang pen pals.

Manatiling nakatutok sa “Dolce Amore” sa ABSCBN Primetime Bida. Para sa exclusive updates, sundan ang @StarCreativesTV sa Twitter at Instagram, at i-like ang www.facebook. com/DolceAmoreABSCBN2016.