The Far West Herald Volume 01, Issue 05

VOLUME 01, ISSUE 05

CO N N EC T • IN S P IR E • S U CC E E D

MAY 2019

THE

FARWEST HERALD Duterte threatens to ship garbage back to Canada

MANILA, April 23, 2019 -- President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday renewed his call to Canada to pull out tons of garbage which was dumped in the Philippines from 2013 to 2014.

Duterte, in a situation briefing in San Fernando Pampanga, threatened to set sail to Canada and dump the garbage back there if they refused to resolve the issue.

“I want a boat prepared. I’ll give a warning to Canada maybe next week that they better pull that thing out or I will set sail, doon sa Canada ibuhos ko ‘yang basura nila doon (in Canda and dump the trash there),” Duterte said.

Duterte said he would no longer allow Canada to turn the Philippines into a “dumpsite”, urging them to prepare for “a grand reception” to welcome their trash back home.

“I cannot understand why they are making us a dumpsite, and that is not the only case on point. Papasunod-sunod ‘yan na pinapadala yung basura sa atin (They keep sending their trash here). Well, not this time,” he said.

He also threatened to declare war against Canada over the garbage issue.

“Awayin natin ang Canada (Let’s fight with Canada). We’ll declare war against them, kaya man natin ‘yan sila. Isaoli ko talaga. Tingnan mo(We can handle them. I’ll return the trash. Just wait and see),” Duterte said.

“Load the containers to a ship, and I will advise Canada that your garbage is on the way. Prepare a grand reception. Eat it if you want to,” he added.

Duterte also asked Customs Commissioner Rey Guerrero to prohibit Canada from sending in any more trash to the country.

“Sabihin ko kay (I’ll tell) Jagger, send them back or do not allow them to drop anchor here. Just tell them go back to where you came from. I will not allow that kind of shit sa ating bayan (here in our country),” he added.

From 2013 to 2014, a total of 103 container vans from Canada reportedly arrived in batches at the Port of Manila.

The garbage was initially declared to contain only plastic scraps. However, it was found to have non-recyclable plastics, household wastes and used adult diapers.

During his visit to the Philippines to attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in 2017, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau vowed to cooperate with the Philippine government in resolving the shipment of tons of garbage.

Trudeau, however, said the Philippine and Canadian governments need to settle issues including who will pay for the shipment of the illegal trash to the country.

Azer Parrocha, PNA

OVERSEAS VOTING STARTS APRIL 13 UNTIL MAY 13, 2019 We will do all we can to make sure your vote will be counted.

Registered voters can vote at the Embassy everyday from 13 April to 13 May 2019, including weekends except on 18-19 April 2019. Voting hours are 9 am-5 pm except on 13 May which will be 9 am-1 pm.

We will also send teams to the cities listed in the advisory for remote voting.

If you cannot vote at the Embassy or any of our remote voting sites, please send us your address so we can mail your ballot. Please fill and mail to the Embassy immediately. •

Stay engaged with daily news & updates that matter to you: farwestherald.com

Earth Month Community Clean Up Events APRIL 26, 2019

During Earth Month (April), there are community environmental events where participation of schools, communities, local businesses, and churches are encouraged.

The City of Toronto’s - Clean Toronto Together Campaign: School Cleanup Day , Friday April 26, 2019 Community Clean-up Days, Saturday April, 27 & Sunday, April 28, 2019 The City Park Clean-up – April 22 to April 26, 2019 (grades 1 to 8) For information on the City of Toronto Clean Up Event: livegreentoronto.ca

REIGNING MS. UNIVERSE 2018, CATRIONA GRAY in TORONTO The Miss Universe crown is a symbol of beauty, confidence, empowerment and countless opportunities. Last December 2018, in Bangkok, Thailand, the crown belonged to Catriona Gray, as Miss Universe 2018. Her success has once again marked the Philippines in the global map. To compete in beauty, brains and talent against the best representative from each of the 97 countries and territories is no easy feat.

It is an achievement worthy to be proud of.

According to the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) website, the MUO empowers women of all cultures and backgrounds to develop the confidence they need to achieve their personal best.

The MUO further states that a confident woman has the power to make real change, starting in her local community with the potential to reach a global audience… and also to continue to define what it means to be “Confidently Beautiful”.

Catriona is the fourth Filipina to bring pride to the Philippines by winning the Miss Universe title. Gloria Diaz in 1969, Margarita Moran in 1973, Pia Wurtzbach in 2015, and Catriona Gray in 2018. With each beauty queen, they continue to define what it means to be

confidently beautiful.

For Catriona, after winning the crown, she lost no time in fulfilling the purpose of her title and her personal goals, which are to encourage, inspire, promote, share and empower all women.

Since January 2019, Catriona, who has been based in New York, has appeared in numerous TV and radio shows, where she impressed the audience with her communication skills. > See PAGE 14

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THE FAR WEST HERALD

EDITORIAL

MAY 2019

In Celebration of Filipino Heritage, Part 1....... In Celebration of Filipino Heritage, Part 2......

The Filipino Heritage Month: Celebrating Towards a Proud and Progressive Filipino Canadian Community.

By: Tony A. San Juan, OCT.

Filipino Canadian Associations: Connecting the Old and the New, A Case of Bridging Generations By: Tony A. San Juan, OCT.

In a few months from now, to be specific that is in June 2019, members of the Filipino Canadian communities across Canada, especially in Ontario, will come together to celebrate Filipino Heritage Month. It will be a milestone period of historic honour, recognition, connection, engaging and sharing of history, culture and significant contributions of Filipino Canadians in Canada.

It is expected that participants will include socially, politically, educationally, and economically - engaged kababayans from all spectrum of life such as academics, activists, advocates, artists, businessmen, caregivers, civic workers, doctors, educators, engineers,entrepreneurs, health care workers, historians, media workers, nurses, politicians,seniors, social workers, students, teachers, technologists,and labour unionists.

Many of those who would be celebrating too are those who led and worked tremendously to plan, organize, and implement the many Filipino Heritage Month events and activities beginning June and every month thereafter.

The Filipino Heritage Month, as officially declared by Canadian House of Commons on October 30, 2018, will mark the more than 6 decades of Filipino diaspora in this adopted homeland. The June commemoration is taking place in many ways federally, provincially and municipally including various cultural, social, professional, and community-based organizations.

As we hope and envision the path towards recognition, unity and development, we have a long way to go from here. Currently counting at close to 900,000 people, the Filipino population in Canada doubled between 1986 and 2016. It is important to recognize that each of these Filipino communities across the country is ethnocentrically unique and diverse.

Filipino Canadian leaders and the ordinary Juans or Juanas must share stories, experiences and promising practices for challenging systemic barriers in the workplace, advocating toward the inclusion of Filipino history and culture in school curricula across the country, and ensuring Filipino arts and heritage initiatives including the teaching and learning of Filipino, being the national language, are sincerely supported beyond the month of June.

What does success look like? For each of the Filipino diaspora group and pioneers, depending on when they came to the country and where they are in Canada, the answer is different. For some, it is having a strong, unified voice, and increased representation at all levels of government, and, for others, it is ensuring Filipino immigrants, seniors, youth and vulnerable communities are able to gain equitable access to taxpayer-supported services, programs and benefits.

Over the next few months, there will be a federal election. During this time, again, we will campaign and vote at helping Canadians set and carry out their political intentions for the upcoming federal election on community-focused issues from immigration to reunification, professional accreditation to inclusion, diversity to equity and other Filipino hinaings and challenges. We will listen, learn, discern, and decide wisely and make multifaceted choices, And, In June 2019 while we will celebrate the gain and beauty of being recognized culturally and ethnically, let us be sure we draw the attention and the hopes to continuing to close the chasms and to bridge the spans toward a better and truly multicultural Canada. • Tony A. San Juan, OCT ADVERTISE WITH US CALL MARIA AT 647 895 2160 OR EMAIL AT ADS@FARWESTHERALD.COM

Ethnic-based and immigrant community organizations within a global community or a given country are relevant entities that impact upon and contribute immeasurably to the social, economic, cultural development and success of the adopted homeland. Filipino immigrants of different persuasions and perspectives are among these groups. Filipinos are now numbering close to 900,000 residents and citizens, from a mere 800 in the 50s and 60s, becoming one of the largest immigrant demographics in Canada. This phenomenon contributed unmistakably also to the growth of Filipino associations in the landscape.

Filipino Canadian associations in Canada, particularly in Ontario, Quebec and Alberta can be traced back to the start of Filipino diaspora and immigration in the second half of the 20th century. Many say that there are now more than 350 associations in Ontario or Quebec alone out of the 5,000 different organizations from coast-to-coast and still counting. One can say that their vision and vibrancy or lack thereof if any, are directly or indirectly akin to the status and standing of Filipino culture, arts and history in Canada.

Their prime time of greatest health, vigour, success and prosperity, however, were on the third quarter of the 20th century to coincide with the largest wave of immigration in the 70s and 80s. There came about too within the demographics, a lot of stories and narratives. They felt comfort and confidence in meeting their kababayans as often as they could to keep in touch with their Filipino friends and traditions. These associations also provided support for the latest arrivals to help them find their way in this adopted land.

Exercising the bayanihan spirit, great examples of these associations were organized since the 60s and whose members were very passionate about maintaining a profound connection with ating bayang sinilangan. These numerous organizations ranged from provincial to region-based, from alumni to professional, and from seniors to special- interest groups such as faith-focused, social, sports, business, political and labour circles. With a mixed feeling, however, the so-called baby boomers, those who came from the Philippines to Canada in their 20s and now in their 60s and 70s are still much into the affairs and activities of their organized or “founded” associations.

Yes, these early groups have different missions and goals desired during their time. But times have changed. Recent experiences and continued observations revealed that those who came at the very young age, or were born in Canada soon after their parents or grandparents’ arrival, were “not so keen” on actively participating in the first generation activities. Such questions arose: When was the last time you went to a Filipino association party? When you try to bring your children or teenagers with you, do you get an eye roll or a smirk? As children, of course, they had very little choice but to attend. But as time went on, these new generations, the XYZs. did everything to avoid the baby boomers crowd. Some often asked: What is my Filipino identity? Who am I? Am I a Filipino or a Canadian born of Filipino parents with a different, assimilated culture, perspective and idiosyncrasies?

Many young Filipino-Canadians, of course, pride themselves on their parent’s heritage. But sometimes many others don’t connect anymore with their culture beyond the proud acceptance of having in our midst good singers, good dancers or enjoying adobo, pancit and lechon. While many youths may consider province or town -based Filipino associations are nothing more than an “old folks” club.

Watching their parents or grandparents dance the boogie or the tango, going to church, listening to old Pinoy music- mga kundiman at OPMs, doing the beso-beso or holding the old hands for a mano was never their idea of fun even if the food and music were amazing. And to make matters worse, the traditionalists and baby boomers generations never saw the need to adapt their social activities or events that would attract the other generation. Thus, the “disconnect syndrome”.

In the long run, the baby boomers gave up on the new generations----the XYZs, the millennials and the centennials, and they continued to do the “same old, same old.” Nostalgia, nonetheless, has dominated. Needless to state, this led to the loss of a few generations who rarely participated, thus effectively transforming these baby boomer associations into old age and seniors clubs over the years. This is not a total indictment, but an eye-opener, perhaps. > Continued on next page

MAY 2019

EDITORIAL

But there is still an answer and remedy. If still interested, these BB generation organizations ----- composed now of mga lolos at lolas, titos at titas, should at least refocus and realign their mandate on the mission of attracting younger generations and families to join and hope to take over these significant entities.

There is no denying that this is a challenging task. So the question became, how can we set the stage for success? How can we encourage the 20-, 30 and 40 yearold to participate, to feel a sense of genuine belonging, and to actively take on the responsibility of perpetuating our rich Filipino culture now and in the distant future.

Maybe, after careful and serious reflections at mga mahalagang pag-uusap at matinding pagmuni-muni via appropriate forums and strategies, the “old guards” and the learned members of the community should decide that the answer was to offer and examine on the “needs and wants” of these new generations. We need to reach out to them. We need to remind them of the importance of promoting and propagating our history, culture, and traditions. A meaningful vision for the future is the first step to success. And, in the celebration of Filipino Heritage all over Canada beginning June this year as declared by the House of Commons, is certainly a good and apt beginning.

Engaging younger generations, honestly, is certainly a daunting and difficult work. Although some may feel that the new generation might find it difficult to relate to the “Filipinoness” that this and that association promotes and stands for, we believe that if we adapt to meet the new reality we will not only survive but will definitely flourish. Maintaining our culture, language, values and traditions is a collective responsibility that we must all embrace and share. Let us not go down in history that the traditionalists and baby boomers generations and I for one are in this category, did not try and we failed to do so. • Tony A. San Juan, OCT

7 Ontario Filipino Canadians Win Filipino Centre Toronto Outstanding Seniors of the Year Awards True to its commitment and desire to recognise and honour senior members of the Filipino Canadian community in Ontario, the Filipino Centre Toronto - FCT, through its Outstanding Filipino Canadian Seniors Awards board of judges, selects and names 7 active seniors to receive the “Most Outstanding Senior of the Year2019” awards. These still-engaged seniors who have made invaluable contributions, exemplary service, and magnanimous engagement into the quality of life and living in their communities, were chosen via a 5 -month competitive search.

The seven deserving recipients will be honoured and presented with a “Plaque of Recognition” at the FCT- Filipino Centre Toronto’s Bi-annual Gala Event on April 13, 2019, Saturday, 7:00 pm. at Grand Cinnamon Banquet and Convention Centre in Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario.

The winners of this first-ever top recognition are Caroline Banez, Norma Carpio, Teodorico “Ted” Dayno, Agnes P. Miranda, Rafael “Paeng” Nebres, George Poblete, and Arturo T. Viola. Three other seniors, namely Erlinda Insigne, Rolando M. Dela Cruz and Joel Recla will be presented with “Certificates of Recognition” as well.

Employing a structured evaluation/rating scale and after a thorough deliberation and careful analysis of the documents presented, the OFCSYA judges have decided and selected the winners according to the following established criteria: 1)profession/ career in the private sector or government service -10 %, 2)civic affiliation, community & volunteer work - 20 %, 3)professional association or union membership - 5%, 4)professional certification or licence -10 %, 5)awards, honours, distinctions received - 15 %, 6) education and training-10%, and 7) overall assessment --30% i.e. effectiveness, impact, quality, commitment, engagement , and amount of accomplishments, contributions, service and volunteer time to the community before and after the age of 65.

The FCT -OFCSYA board of judges is composed of Dr Alice Herrera, University of the Philippines Alumni Association -Toronto President; Steve Pagao, Philippine Chamber of Commerce -Toronto President; Nita Rejdik, Filipino Centre Toronto Director; Garry Tanuan, Toronto Catholic District School Board Trustee; Antonio Villarin, Toronto Solicitor-Barrister; and Tony A. San Juan, retired Toronto educator ( Chairman).

Introducing briefly, Carol Banez, a registered nurse, is president of Scarborough Ontario Seniors Association & ex-president of Philippine Heritage Band; Norma Carpio, a travel agency owner, is chair emerita of Mabuhay Philippines Festival & former president of Philippine Independence Day Council; Ted Dayno, a CPA, is an entrepreneur & president of UMAC & FOREX; Agnes Miranda, a community organisations supporter, is the senior executive vice-chair of World Financial Group; Rafael Nebres, a community & faith-based leader, is the general

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manager of Action Honda; George Poblete, a retired engineer, is a top officer of the Knights of Columbus & the Knights of Rizal; and Arturo T. Viola, a retired medical technology manager, is former politician and Lord Mayor of the Niagara- on- theLake township. Erlinda Insigne, a real estate broker is long-serving president of Filipino Canadian Assn. of Vaughan; Rolando Dela Cruz, a Lion & former district governor ,is an optical lab technician; and Joel Recla, a Kof C Maharlika member, is a multicultural TV-Radio producer, creator & host.

Organised in 1990 as a not for profit, volunteer-run, community-based organisation, the Filipino Centre Toronto-FCT operates and offers its many wellestablished programs and services to the community from its newly owned site at 4395 Sheppard Avenue East, Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario M1S 1T9. The current major officers are Mary Ann S. San Juan, President & CEO and Efren De Villa, Chairman of the Board of Directors. • Tony A.San Juan, OCT

ABS-CBN The Filipino Channel Hosts Kwentuhan & Meet-and-Greet in Toronto

Committed to its purposeful mission to reach out and connect progressively with the Filipino Canadian community in the Greater Toronto Area, the ABS -CBN The Filipino Channel senior executives and staff in North America hosted a “Kwentuhan cum Meet-and-Greet” session in Toronto on April 4, 2019.

A good number of invited members of the Filipino media and leaders of the community attended the dinner meeting at the Islas Filipino BBQ & Bar at 1690 Queen Street West, Toronto. In attendance, likewise, were top executives and staff of ABS-CBN TFC Canada led by the new Country Manager for Canada Kerwin Du, Eastern Canada sales & distribution head Mario Marasigan, and Regional Marketing head for North & Latin America Pamela Castillo.

Presided by Rosary Escano, ABS-CBN TFC marketing head in Canada, the unique and special gathering was conducted to start an informal but significant conversation aimed at eliciting information for the Philippine leading media company “to understand better the Filipino community in Toronto”. This way, R. Escano hoped that ABS-CBN, the largest Filipino television & broadcast company in the world can offer good products and “other ways to better serve” their North American customers.

In the after dinner 3-hour kwentuhan session, the engaged attendees shared their personal experiences, background and stories as new and established immigrants in their adopted country. Some guests also shared their insights and wisdom on how the hosts will be able to provide and deliver excellent broadcast content and programming in Canada.

Among those who attended were: MCBN TV-Pinoy Radio president Nestor Von Canton; Balita publisher Tess Cusipag; Kubomagazine publisher Ronnie Dela Gana; Filipiniana publisher Bin Kon Loo; Pinoy News publisher Joy Sarmiento; Filipinos Making Waves publishers Tess & Mon Torralba; Filipino Bulletin publisher Carlos Unas; and community & business leaders such as FCT director Philip Beloso; PIDC president Karen P. Binaday; Philippine Festival Mississauga Festival director Erlinda Carin; National Filipino Heritage Month Representatives Resty & Sol Dallosa; Kababayan MC exec. director Flor Dandal; FCAV president Erlinda Insigne;Taste of Manila founder Rolly Mangante; PCCT president Steve Pagao; Our Lady of Assumption representative for Filipino activities Jeanette Rosales; and Philippine Canadian Heritage Council chairman & Talakayan Radyo Filipino commentator Tony A. San Juan and other community personalities. • Tony A. San Juan, OCT

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THE FAR WEST HERALD

PHILIPPINE NEWS

PRRD ‘in a hurry’ to strike deal with Misuari

MANILA, March 27, 2019 -- President Rodrigo R. Duterte said that he is “in a hurry” to strike a deal with Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chairman Nur Misuari to finally end the long-drawn Moro rebellion and achieve lasting peace in Mindanao.

“I am in a hurry to strike a deal with Nur Misuari,” Duterte said during the PDPLaban campaign rally in Koronadal City on Tuesday (March 26).

Duterte bared this, a week after meeting with Misuari in Malacañang to discuss the shift to federalism, which the MNLF founder was pushing for.

While the government has “come to terms” with Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim in terms of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL), Duterte said he wanted to do the same with Misuari.

Ebrahim now heads the Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) and acts as interim minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

“The BOL is satisfactory according to Murad, as it is. So long as it is implemented correctly. Kay (With) Misuari naman, medyo (maybe) we have to deal with him again,” Duterte said.

“And I hope that we could find the space, the time, and the issues that would be more acceptable to everybody, to both the Lumads, the Christian, and the Moro,” he added.

Last week, Duterte said he asked Misuari to form a negotiating panel to address his group’s concerns.

This, after the MNLF leader told the President that he will go to war if the proposed shift to a federal system will not happen.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Misuari “was very happy” with the President’s response to form a negotiating panel. • Azer Parrocha, PNA

PRRD bans junkets for gov’t execs, workers MANILA, March 22, 2019 --- President Rodrigo R. Duterte has issued an executive order (EO) banning junkets for government officials and employees.

“All forms of travel junkets shall be strictly prohibited,” read the EO No. 77 signed

by Duterte on March 15 but was only released to the media on Friday.

The EO also mandated government officials and employees to travel in economy class except for Department Secretaries, Undersecretaries, and Assistant Secretaries if their trip is more than four hours.

The EO also required government workers to use public modes of transportation on their travels.

“Only the ordinary public conveyance or customary modes of transportation shall be used. The use of chartered trips, special hires of public utilities, garage cars, water vessels, and other extraordinary means of transportation shall not be allowed unless justified by the prevailing circumstances,” the EO read.

The EO also banned the holding of strategic planning workshops or team building activities abroad.

The newly-signed EO also prohibits government officials and employees from accepting a trip paid for in full or partially by suppliers or contractors with pending requests or applications, or future dealings with the government agency or unit they belong to.

“Official foreign trips partially or fully sponsored or funded by private corporations or private individuals shall be fully disclosed,” the EO added.

The EO also sets the amounts for clothing allowance, daily subsistence allowance, and representation expenses of officials travelling abroad.

Under the EO, officials whose foreign travels last for more than a month are the only ones entitled to a clothing allowance. • EJ Roque, PNA

MAY 2019

Comelec all set for start of local campaign MANILA, March 27, 2019 -- As local candidates gear up for the May 13 elections, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has expressed its readiness for the start of the campaign period for local aspirants on Friday.

“We are as ready as we will ever be,” Comelec spokesperson, James Jimenez, said in an interview Wednesday.

Jimenez noted that their city/ municipal election officers will monitor possible campaign rule violations by those who are running in the polls.

“The campaign period pretty much runs by itself. Our only concern there is looking out for possible violations,” he said.

Jimenez, however, is not discounting the possibility that their field officers would be overwhelmed by the sheer number of candidates at the local level.

“With more than 18,000 positions in contention, you are looking at several thousands of candidates at play. You can tell that within two hours, our personnel will already be overwhelmed,” he said.

Jimenez, however, said he is confident that they would be able to handle everything, with assistance from the public by reporting to them any campaign irregularity.

“The reports from the people are very vital as much as the Comelec needs to observe due process,” he said.

Local candidates include those running for a congressional seat at the House of Representatives; provincial governor; provincial vice governor; members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan; mayor; vice mayor; members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod; and members of the Sangguniang Bayan. They will be allowed to woo voters until May 11. • Ferdinand Patinio, PNA

VOTING STARTS ON APRIL 13 UNTIL MAY 13, 2019. We will do all we can to make sure your vote will be counted.

Registered voters can vote at the Embassy everyday from 13 April to 13 May 2019, including weekends except on 18-19 April 2019. Voting hours are 9 am-5 pm except on 13 May which will be 9 am-1 pm.

We will also send teams to the cities listed in the advisory for remote voting.

If you cannot vote at the Embassy or any of our remote voting sites, please send us your address so we can mail your ballot. Please fill and mail to the Embassy immediately.

PHILIPPINE NEWS

MAY 2019

THE FAR WEST HERALD

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Palace prays for sound mind, China eyes more tie-up with PH healthy body on Duterte’s birthday universities on student exchanges

Facebook page shows President Rodrigo Duterte with his family. The Palace has said the chief executive would spend his 74th birthday in Davao./Paolo Duterte Facebook/

MANILA, March 27, 2019 – A day before President Rodrigo R. Duterte celebrates his 74th birthday, Malacañang on Wednesday wished the Chief Executive a “sound mind” and “healthy body” to help him finish the goals he has set for the country.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo, in his birthday message addressed Duterte as “Mayor” instead of President, praised him for “his sense of duty and fidelity to the country”.

Panelo said these traits not only inspire and motivate workers in the government to serve the people well but moves the rest of society to do the same.

“As Mayor Duterte celebrates his 74th birthday, we pray the Almighty to continue giving him a sound mind and a healthy body, that he may finish the goals he had set for the betterment of the country and people that he loved so well towards a future of progress and prosperity,” Panelo said in a statement.

“From a local public servant, he had evolved to be a force with national constituency catapulting him to the zenith of political power as the Chief Executive and Head of State,” added Panelo, referring to Duterte’s humble start as mayor of Davao City.

Panelo cited Duterte’s war against illegal drugs, fight against corruption, and policies and reforms aimed at providing Filipinos with a better life such as free college education, free universal healthcare and medicine as proof of his desire to make good on his campaign promises.

He also gave credit to Duterte’s initiative to sign laws on free irrigation to farmers; free feeding program for undernourished school children; salary increase of soldiers, policemen, firemen and government workers; higher SSS pension of senior citizens and old-age pension of veterans; among many other changes in the social and political landscape.

Moreover, he also praised the President for “relentlessly and tirelessly performing his constitutional duty to serve and protect the people.“ Panelo also described Filipinos as being “blessed” and “privileged” for having Duterte, a “compassionate man” as head of state.

“We are certainly blessed and privileged to have someone as dedicated as President Duterte as the captain of our ship steering our flag carrier safely to a land, he vowed to be free from drugs and crimes where each Filipino will enjoy a comfortable life,” Panelo said.

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar, for his own birthday message, described as “destiny” the election of Duterte into office.

“Destiny designed your name: Rodrigo Roa Duterte, 74 years ago on this day, to lead that we may follow and to follow that we may live, your noble cause within our lives. Happy birthday, President Duterte!” Andanar said.

Meanwhile, Panelo also confirmed that the President will spend his birthday quietly with his family and loved ones in his hometown, Davao City as in previous years.

“The presidency has not changed his simple lifestyle, no frills but certainly plenty of thrills,” Panelo said. • Azer Parrocha, PNA

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Chargés d’Affaires Tan Qingsheng

MANILA, March 25, 2019 -- The Chinese Embassy in Manila is planning to forge more agreements with Philippine universities, as it cited the positive outcome of existing student exchanges aimed at strengthening the Manila-Beijing relations.

“We have two university partners but in the future we will consider expanding the program to other universities as well,” Chargés d’Affaires Tan Qingsheng said on the sidelines of the recent Embassy Scholars’ Reception in Makati City.

“Right now we are satisfied with the results and those students have been invited to China to see for themselves to strengthen understanding and friendship,” he said.

Since 2014, more than 200 students from the Philippine Normal University (PNU) and the University of the Philippines have benefited from the embassy’s education program, while some others have been sent to China and its provinces for learning tours.

PNU Bachelor in Mathematics and Science Elementary student Edralyn de Guzman, who was among the students sent to Beijing under the youth program, hailed the embassy’s initiative as an avenue that enabled them to understand the South Asian country more.

“For me, personally, my perspective quite changed with regards to China or with the people actually,” she said in an interview.

During the launch of the Global Classroom at the Ateneo de Manila Junior and Senior High School on Monday, Tan proposed a similar partnership but more focused on language to Ateneo de Manila University president, Father Jose Ramon T. Villarin.

“Maybe we should have exchange programs in the future so that they (Chinese students) can learn Filipino and students here can learn Mandarin,” he said.

In his speech, he said “good bilateral relations between nations can only be based on good understanding and friendship between the peoples”.

At present, there are around 300 Chinese students studying in the Philippines, while the Chinese government is annually providing more than 50 scholarships to Filipino students in China. • Joyce Ann L. Rocamora, PNA

7 Rappler execs face anti-dummy raps MANILA, March 27, 2019 -- Officials of the holding firm of online news outfit Rappler have been charged before a Pasig court for violation of the anti-dummy law, in connection with the issuance of its shares to United States-based lobby group Omidyar Network Fund, which is a violation of the Constitution.

Named in the criminal information dated March 20 were officers and members of Rappler Holdings Corp.

-- Manuel I. Ayala, Nico Jose Nolledo, Maria Angelita Ressa, Glenda Gloria, James C. Bintanga, Felicia Atienza, and James Velasquez.

The case, filed by the National Bureau of Investigation Cybercrime Division, would be heard by the Pasig Regional Trial Court Branch 265, which recommended a PHP90,000-bail for each of the respondents.

The charge was signed by Senior Assistant City Prosecutor Randy Esteban and approved by Senior Assistant City Prosecutor Camilo B. Dumlao II. The charges arose over moves made by the firm’s owners, sometime in Oct. 2, 2015, to issue 7,217,257 Philippine Depositary Receipts (PDR) to investor Omidyar.

The charge described the investor “as a foreign corporation not allowed/ proscribed by the Constitution or the laws of Philippines to acquire or use the same, thereby allowing, or giving the right to Omidyar Network Fund LLC, to intervene in the management, operation, administration and control of Rappler Inc. and Rappler Holdings Corporation in violation of the of the anti-dummy law.” • Benjamin Pulta, PNA

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THE FAR WEST HERALD

PHILIPPINE NEWS

Crime downtrend means Personal successful anti-drug ops: PNP remittances hit $5.3-B in first 2 months of 2019

MANILA, March 27, 2019 -- As government has been relentless in its campaign against illegal drugs, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has noted the continued drop of crime rate as indicative of a successful anti-illegal drug operation.

In a Real Numbers press conference on Wednesday, PNP deputy spokesperson, Lt. Col Kimberly Molitas, reported that authorities are winning the war for the Filipino people. “[It is] important to note that focus crimes are due to the use of illegal drugs. If you look at the nature [of the crimes], the perpetrators are doing drugs. They resort to theft to support their addiction, they rape, murder because they are tripping,” Molitas said in an interview after the briefing.

A total of 1,040,987 crimes were reported from July 2016 to June 2018, lower than the 1,325,789 cases reported during the same period in 2014 to 2016, or a 21.48 percent drop.

Crimes against persons like homicide, physical injuries, and rape also went down, except for murder which saw an increase of 19,210 or 1.5 percent during the last two years.

Molitas said the war on drugs is far from over, but the interagency task force publishes daily reports of its progress.

“We put an effort to make sure that the campaign against illegal drugs is sustained. Hindi po yan nagbabago, bumababa po yan ng bumababa (It is consistent, the numbers are dropping each year),” she said.

With the minimal number of crimes, the PNP also reported that the benefits that the Philippine economy reaps from their efforts.

“In the business sector, they feel safer and better now. It is one of the indications that the war on drugs is nearly over but the problem is still there. War on drugs is a worldwide phenomenon addressed by ASEAN countries, it is not just us,” she added.

Christine Cudis, PNA

Lopez sees improvement in PH’s ease of doing business ranking MANILA, April 16, 2019 -- Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez expressed optimism that the country’s ease of doing business score will show marked improvement this year since 33 out of the 43 specified areas needing reforms have already been achieved.

In an interview with journalists on Tuesday, Lopez identified some of these areas as the faster release of business permits; facilitation with utility companies, such as the Manila Electric Company (Meralco), Manila Water, and Maynilad Water; amendment of the Corporation Code to remove the minimum paid-in capital; and institutionalization of the Personal Property Security law.

These measures are seen to help improve the country’s ranking to between 89 and 94, based on the simulation activities, he said.

Lopez said the Philippine government will submit to the World Bank (WB) a report on the country’s progress during the Ease of Doing Business survey validation early next month.

“Now, as to whether these will be credited, we’re confident that over 20 will be credited since this means that these are being implemented for a long time now,” he said.

Lopez explained that local government units (LGUs) have agreed to release the necessary permits requested by businessmen within three days after the filing of application.

Some LGUs, such as Quezon City and the cities of Valenzuela, Batangas, and San Fernando, as well as in Ormoc, are able to do this procedure within 30 minutes since they have automated their processes, he said.

The trade chief said they have challenged LGU officials around the country to streamline their processes, with some having already established one-stop shops for this purpose.

“What is critical is getting the fire inspection safety clearance. If you can fasttrack this or require this post registration, then you can really do 30 minutes registration of business permit,” he said.

In 2018, the country’s ranking fell to 124 out of 190 countries, a slip from its 113th position in the previous year.

However, economic managers questioned the ranking last year after noting that WB used a different scoring system compared to surveys in the past.

Relatively, Lopez said that even if not all the reforms are credited by the WB in this year’s survey, “the reforms and the momentum should continue even after the survey, the cut-off.”

“We have to continue the momentum of these reforms so that by the end of the year, moving into next year, we can feel the improvements,” he added. • Joann Villanueva, PNA

Personal remittances from overseas Filipinos (OFs) amounted to USD2.56 billion in February 2019, higher by 1.2 percent from USD2.53 billion in February 2018.

By country source, the United States registered the highest share of overall remittances for the period at 35.5 percent. It was followed by Saudi Arabia, Singapore, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Japan, Canada, Qatar, Hong Kong, and Germany.

MANILA, April 15, 2019 -- Personal remittances from overseas Filipinos (OFs) amounted to USD2.56 billion in February 2019, higher by 1.2 percent from USD2.53 billion in February 2018.

This brought the cumulative remittances for the first two months of the year to USD5.30 billion, representing a 2.3 percent year-on-year growth, BSP Governor Benjamin E. Diokno announced on Monday.

Personal remittances from sea-based and land-based workers with work contracts of less than one year rose by 8.5 percent to USD0.57 billion in February 2019 from USD0.53 billion in February 2018.

This compensated for the 0.43 percent decline in the personal remittances from land-based workers with work contracts of one year or more, to USD1.93 billion from USD1.94 billion.

Meanwhile, cash remittances from OFs coursed through banks posted a 1.5 percent growth to USD2.30 billion in February 2019 from USD2.27 billion last year.

For the first two months of 2019, cash remittances amounted to USD4.78 billion, an increase of 3.0 percent compared to the USD4.65 billion level in the same period last year.

This growth was supported by the increase in remittances from both land-based (USD3.73 billion) and seabased (USD1.06 billion) workers, which rose by 1.0 percent and 10.5 percent, respectively.

By country source, the United States registered the highest share of overall remittances for the period at 35.5 percent. It was followed by Saudi Arabia, Singapore, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Japan, Canada, Qatar, Hong Kong, and Germany.

The combined remittances from these countries accounted for 77.3 percent of total cash remittances for January to February 2019. • BSP PR

MAY 2019

Tolentino: PantawidPasada sa dyip at tricycle

Mariing nanawagan ngayon ang dating MMDA Chair at pambatong senador ng administrasyon na si Francis Tolentino para sa pagpapalawak ng Pantawid Pasada Program (PPP) para makinabang na rin dito ang mga tricycle “upang tulungan silang ibsan ang epekto ng taas-babang presyo ng gasolina.”

Ani Tolentino, matutulungan ng husto ng P5,000 hanggang P10,000 pisong pagtaas sa subsidiyang pantawid pasada ang kabuhayan ng mga tsuper at nagmamaneho dahil “ang kasalukuyang P20,514 kada taon ay kulang pa rin sa gitna ng tumataas na presyo ng bilihin kaakibat ng pagmahal ng gasolina.”

Nakatakdang makinabang mula sa nakalaang P3.86 bilyong piso ngayong taon ang tinatayang 180 libong mga operator at drayber ng dyip mula sa nasabing programa. Inilaan ito upang ibsan ang epekto ng TRAIN (Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion) Law. Sa pagtaya ng Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), nasa 88,209 piraso ng fuel cards na ang naipapamahagi mula Hulyo 2018 hanggang Pebrero ngayong taon.

Nanawagan din si Tolentino sa pagpapalawak pa ng nasabing programa upang pakinabangan na rin ito ng mga nagmamaneho ng pampasadang tricycle dahil “halos ganun din ang dami ng mga gumagamit nito, hindi lamang sa mga lungsod kundi lalo na sa mga kanayunan na kadalasang hindi nasasakop sa ruta ng mga dyip.”

“Pantay-pantay sana nating ipamahagi ang pakinabang mula sa Pantawid Pasada Program. Gumagamit din ng gasolina ang mga tricycle at ang mga drayber at operator nito ay kasama ring nasasaktan sa bawat pag-angat ng presyo ng produktong langis.”

“Huwag nating hayaang magkadahilan ang ating mga kababayang tumigil-pasada , bigyan natin sila ng pantay na pagkakataon sa insentibong dala ng mga programa ng gobyerno sa paraan ng pagpapalawak pa ng pakinabang mula dito para sa sektor ng transportasyon,” paliwanag pa ng senatoriable. • (PRESS RELEASE)

MAY 2019

PHILIPPINE NEWS

Tolentino to DICT: Update, Report Rollout of Free Wifi Senate administration bet and former MMDA Chair Francis Tolentino called on the Department of Information and Communications Techonology (DICT) to give a detailed and comprehensive update on the rollout of free wifi internet access in public places nationwide, saying “public expectation is high and the government needs to meet the demand for greater access to information.”

Tolentino was referring to Republic Act No. 10929, signed by President Rodrigo Duterte on August 2017, which creates a “Free Internet Access Program” in all public places in the country.

The law requires that there should be wifi internet access in national and local government offices, public basic education institutions, public hospitals, health centers, and rural health units, public parks, plazas, libraries, and barangay reading centers, public airports and seaports and public transport terminals.

Specific targeted areas include computer laboratories and libraries in public basic education institutions and state universities and colleges and main lobbies and hallways of public buildings.

“We cannot live without internet these days. It has become as important as water and electricity. We call on the DICT to give the public a status report on the law’s implementation close to two years after the signing of the Free Wifi Law by the President,” the senatorial aspirant said.

There have been reports on the program’s slow rollout. A Commission on Audit report in 2017 cited the DICT’s very low performance rate in implementing the law. ”Of course we recognize the manpower and technical challenges on the DICT. But I’ve heard department officials claim that by 2022 they will have 200,000 access points, making the country’s program one of the biggest free wifi deployment in the whole world.”

An early 2019 digital report released by social media firms Hootsuite and We Are Social noted that internet users in the Philippines dethroned Thailand as the country that spends the most time online.

The study further claimed that in 2018, Filipino internet users increased their average time online to 10 hours and two minutes from a previous record of nine hours and 29 minutes in 2017.

In addition, Pinoys spend an average of four hours and 12 minutes on social media platforms. The global average is two hours and 16 minutes. ”Data and statistics show that internet usage is driving the lives of Filipinos.

That’s why it’s important that the DICT delivers on the promise of free internet.

There’s a digital divide that we need to cross courtesy of responsive government programs,” Tolentino explained. • (PRESS RELEASE)

THE FAR WEST HERALD

7

LEONOR ABAD-POIZNER WINS MRS./ MS. PHILIPPINES PIDC 2019

Winners L-R JOSEPHINE ARTUZ, 2nd Runner-Up; LEONOR ABAD-POIZNER, Mrs./Ms. Philippines PIDC 2019, SALLY MAANO TANINGCO, 1st Runner-Up (PIDC)

Candidates L-R IMELDA CONCEPCION, LEONOR ABAD-POIZNER, JAN BENOZA, SALLY MAANO TANINGCO, JOSEPHINE ARTUZ, AMETHYST SALAS, and GENOVEVA ASUNCION-JUBILO (PIDC)

Cheque Presentation to GK CANADA by the PIDC Board

FILIPINO CANADIAN COMMUNITY NEWS

Members of the TCDSB Filipino Advisory Committee(FAC) posed after their regular meeting about student success matters on April 9, 2019. Seated front: TCDSB Trustee Garry Tanuan, CRO Jodelyn Huang and TCDSB Superintendent Nick D’Avella. Standing L- R: Chloe Panganiban, Jasmyn Asuro, Vanessa Erhirlie, Tony A. San Juan, Cielito Drapeza and Jarece Estiaga.

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CANADIAN NEWS

ONTARIO GOVT TO SLASH $1 BILLION FUNDING TO TORONTO PUBLIC HEALTH OVER THE NEXT 10 YRS

The Board of Health and Toronto Public Health were advised the province would be slashing approximately $1 billion of funding over the next 10 years.

This change, hidden in the provincial budget and imposed without any consultation whatsoever, will hurt the health and wellness of Toronto residents.

The funding they are cutting goes towards keeping our water safe, our children vaccinated against deadly diseases, our restaurants clean, and our pets from getting rabies, along with many other programs dedicated to ensuring people are healthy.

We understand from Toronto Public Health that this puts funding at risk for many programs including: • More than 600 school breakfast programs, • Daycare inspections to ensure the safety of children, • The detection of and response to new and emerging threats to

public health such as SARS and H1N1.

The Toronto Public Health budget has historically been funded by the province for a reason: these are programs which protect people’s health and many programs which keep people out of hospitals and, ultimately, saves health care costs.

We understand that while the province will be changing the funding formula for all health units, Toronto in particular will see its funding further reduced this year and next year. It is impossible not to see this as a targeted attack on the health of our entire city and, in particular, the health of Toronto’s most vulnerable people.

It is inconceivable why the Ontario government would want to single out Toronto, Ontario’s capital and economic engine, for harsher treatment when we know a healthy city is a prosperous city.

This is an incredibly serious funding change which puts our city’s health at risk and will put lives at risk here in Toronto and across the province.

Over the coming days and into next week, I will be working with Board of Health Chair Joe Cressy and Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Eileen de Villa to continue to voice our strong opposition to this dramatic change in funding and the threat to the health and well-being of all residents. This is a dangerous way to curtail expenditures and we will be working hard with Toronto residents to see it reversed. •

STATEMENT FROM MICHELLE REMPEL ON LIBERAL IMMIGRATION SPONSORSHIP POLICY GAP Conservative Party of Canada | April 4, 2019 OTTAWA, ON - The Hon. Michelle Rempel, Shadow Minister for Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, issued the following statement regarding a government decision that is keeping vulnerable women who have sponsored their partners in situations of abuse: “This Liberal government removed the conditional permanent residence requirement for sponsored spouses, a significant policy change that does not allow for a sponsor to end the three-year undertaking period.

This means that the sponsor is held responsible for the expenses of their sponsored spouse for the entire waiting period, even if they have since been subjected to domestic abuse.

“I have been contacted by a woman who is in an abusive situation and despite filing for divorce and pressing assault charges against her husband, she cannot end the sponsorship agreement that she signed to bring him to Canada. The Liberal government has enacted a policy that is having adverse consequences on vulnerable women.

“Despite seeking additional information on this disturbing situation, the Department of Immigration has refused to commit to fixing this issue. It is absolutely unconscionable that this government claims to be a feminist government and yet they allow this injustice to continue under their watch. I will continue to hold the Trudeau government to account and demand that they fix this policy gap which puts vulnerable women at risk.”

For more information, please contact: Office of the Hon. Michelle Rempel Michelle.Rempel.A1@parl.gc.ca 613-992-4275

MAY 2019

Quebec Flooding 2019 April 22: Gatineau, Quebec residents at Moreau and Jacques Cartier Streets are preparing for threats of a major flooding in the 2389 residences across the province, and more than 1500 people forced from their homes. 600 soldiers have been deployed to assist the residents (photo by Andre Lajoie).

Rising water has forced the closure of at least 35 roads in the province and Premier Blaine Higgs has urged residents to do what they can to protect their families and property. (photo by Andre Lajoie).

Canadian Buyers Rediscover Philippines’ Premier Design and Lifestyle Event Toronto, Canada – The 69th edition of Manila FAME is set to open its doors once again to thousands of international and local buyers on 25-27 April 2019 at the World Trade Center, Metro Manila, Pasay City, Philippines.

As the country’s premier design and lifestyle event, Manila Fame has positioned itself as the country’s best venue to discover Filipino design talents, raw materials, craftsmanship and service, and as a trade fair where buyers and visitors can experience the trademark hospitality of Filipinos.

From Canada, four (4) trade buyers will be sent by the Trade Office of the Philippine Consulate General, in its capacity as the representative office of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), as follows: 1. Jerome Gagnon-Voyer of Cambio & Co. (Top Level Buyer Category). An e-commerce shop for thoughtful, responsible goods that empowers artisans around the world, Cambio & Co. works with purposedriven entrepreneurs and social enterprises mainly in the Philippines to bring products that are fair trade, sustainable made and create meaningful change;

Cambio & Co. (www.shopcambio.co) co-founder, Mr. Jerome Gagnon-Voyer (middle) is on a mission to change how business is done and how people shop.

They showcase contemporary, conscious

fashion made with Filipino soul - all designed and handcrafted in the Philippines by talented Filipino artisans.

2. Ms. Daphna Lewinshtein (Top Level Buyer Category). Representing Craft Talk, an artisan accelerator and design consultancy provider which promotes fair and transparent labor practices for artisans and craft producers, Ms. Lewinshein has extensive experience in artisan fashion and home goods: buying, wholesaling and fair trade.

3. Mr. Steve Lodge of DLC Distributors, Inc., (Top Level Buyer Category). A services provider for supply chain management, B2B EPI, product and shipping fulfilment, has the infrastructure to assist in providing solutions for brick and mortar, and online business in Canada. This is the second time Mr. Lodge is visiting Manila Fame, the first being in October 2014.

4. Mr. Dean Chow of Canada Arctic Polar Inc., (Regular Buyer). An import and export company, Mr. Chow also provides consultancy for different clients all over the world. The company searches globally to provide both products and service to its clients.

Senior Trade Commissioner Maria Roseni M. Alvero and her staff members at the Toronto-based Trade Office work closely with the Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions, an agency of the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry in introducing finely crafted and exquisitely designed artisanal products to the Canadian Design and Lifestyle market. • To learn more about Manila FAME, visit their website at www.manilafame. com. To receive show updates, follow Manila FAME on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

MAY 2019

SPONSORED

THE FAR WEST HERALD

9

DON’T DAWDLE, FILING TAXES ONLINE IS FREE & QUICK USING CLOUDTAX APP A quick reminder that the tax deadline in Canada is coming up: April 30, 2019! If you’re self-employed, the last day to file taxes is June 30th.

“Don’t let your procrastination be a crisis”, said my friend, a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and a Chartered Public Accountant (CPA).

He was referring to the last remaining days before I beat the due date.

Oh well, it pays to have acquaintances in the upper echelons of the business circle. You get awesome win-win solutions and advice to personal economic woes, especially tax-related issues. Who else would want to read 1.1 million words of Canada’s Income Tax Act? Is it possible to make life easier for Canadians by simplifying the tax system?

I will let you in on a very new tax-filing app that will set you FREE from the conundrum and the complexity of complying with the law.

And it is FREE AND BREEZY! I’m talking about CLOUDTAX, a new tax software available in Canada. It is NETFILE-certified tax software that makes it easy for non-business tax filers to file their taxes for free, either on desktop or mobile phone. https://www.cloudtax.ca/ FREE means no charge in downloading CloudTax, a web/mobile-friendly incometax filing platform. Use your phone in filing your tax—be they Android or iOS Mobile or iPad. It sounds great, eh?

It is cloud-based software that you can access to do your taxes anywhere if you have an internet connection.

Here are more freebies: • Simple tax solutions • Digital tax return storage • PDF-formatted file that you can view prior to filing • Refile • Unlimited Chat/Phone support • Step-by-step guidance Comparatively, most of these features are not available on other free software like TurboTax, SimpleTax, and the H&R Block online.

Let’s say, you get stuck and need some assistance, don’t worry. Be brave, be strong. CloudTax has a chat box that you can type into to chat with a support team member to help you. At no additional cost.

I tested this myself the other day. I saved my profile, then logged out from the application. The following morning, an e-mail came through: CloudTax provides informational video support throughout the application. If you have any questions along the way, feel free to ask our TaxBot in the bottom righthand corner of your screen. You also have an option to get your application reviewed by a CloudTax Expert, before submitting your application – we’re here with you every step of the way. You can do it!

Book an appointment with us at www.cloudtax.ca and we’ll take it from there!

Cheering you on, Nim and The CloudTax Team That’s CloudTax cheering for me—way too smart to remind me to finish what I started.

If you wanted some additional features such as audit protection and unlimited phone support throughout the year, you have the option to upgrade for an additional $2.99/month. Cancel anytime.

If you want someone to double-check your work, you can pay $19 for a certified e-filer to review your Tax Return before submitting it.

Life calls for spontaneity. Lining up at a tax clinic, at a scheduled appointment, with your precious documents is not one of them; and paying a fee that takes a bite into your refund does not feel smart at all.

Try it now, https://www.cloudtax.ca/

CLOUDTAX, A FREE DIY-SMART TAX APP FOR CANADIANS Canadians are all too familiar with the looming feeling of the April 30th deadline to submit taxes. For many, especially as newcomers, students, and seniors, the process seems elusive and daunting, and even more so as new rules are being implied year to year. Many resorts to paying a professional tax service with their hard-earned dollars; the price to pay for assurance that their taxes are filed correctly.

This is where Nimalan Balachandran, founder and CEO of CloudTax, saw a problem and created a solution. As a former Canada Revenue Agency employee, Nimalan has been a witness to the stress and anxiety that tax season imposes onto hard-working Canadians, which is why many are willing to pay out of pocket for tax services. However, CloudTax is the app that has changed the tax game as we know it.

CloudTax is a web- and mobilefriendly app that acts as a multi-tiered service for all your tax needs. If you are a non-business taxpayer with a simple income tax return, this DIY tax filing service is (drumroll, please) absolutely free! Balachandran was inspired in creating this resource by the idea of empowerment — as he was once a newcomer to Canada, he knows how beneficial CloudTax could be to teach others the fundamental basics of filing taxes.

CloudTax Pro is the paid-service extension of this innovative app, intended for business clients or selfemployed individuals who wish to have their taxes reviewed and packaged

As a former Canada Revenue Agency employee, Nimalan Balachandran has been witness to the stress and anxiety that tax season imposes onto hard-working Canadians, which is why many are willing to pay out of pocket for tax services. However, CloudTax is the app that has changed the tax game as we know it.

by a qualified CPA — all through the convenience of an app.

In today’s modern world of ever-changing advancements and technological developments, the key to adapting is knowing the power of your resources. This concept of empowerment has become the basis and

inspiration for soon-to-be household name Nimalan Balachandran in creating and developing CloudTax — an app that is the ultimate resource for all Canadians to gain assurance and confidence with their tax-related needs and to shine a light on the once dark times of tax season.

You ’re bu sy a nd on t h e go, a nd d on’ t wa nt to be tet h e re d to a d e s k or a bu lk y pr int prod u c t a ll t h e t ime . Ju s t s ta y connec te d : www. fa r wes th era l d. com # fa r we s t h e ra ld t wit te r.com/Fa rWe s tHe ra ld fa ce book .com/Fa rWe s tHe ra ld ins ta gra m.com/Fa rWe s tHe ra ld

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THE FAR WEST HERALD

CANADIAN NEWS

MAY 2019

A Filipino Woman’s Take on the Road Less Travelled The story of a Filipino immigrant is one of dreams, hard work, great sacrifice and the hope for a better future. For many Filipinos, Canada is one of the top countries when it comes to immigration, second to the United States. Despite Canada’s climate, access to free education, free health care and the endless economic opportunities, is no wonder why Filipinos choose to leave the tropical islands to experience all that Canada has to offer. This is the story of many Filipino Canadians, and is no different for Cora Cristobal and her family of six. Her story, like the many before her, and those after, all have a common theme, the pursuit for a better life.

Although Cora was a self-made millionaire in the Philippines, amassing wealth in real estate, she had lost everything after being swindled by a crime syndicate. Cora did not want to expose her children to that environment, so starting a new life in a new country had so much appeal.

At least that was what Cora thought.

Starting over in a new country meant taking on jobs with lesser titles and pay, a challenge many immigrants face. As a CPA by profession who once had a successful career, taking on lower level jobs, can be a tough pill to swallow. However, having come from a poor family, Cora was not new to the value of hard work and was prepared to do what it takes to get back to the top, afterall she’s been here before. But Cora did not foresee that her world would be shattered again, but this time, on a personal level.

When Cora’s family experienced great trials, her marriage fell apart. Abandoned by her husband, raising four children alone, making only 35K a year, and a mountain of debt, Cora contemplated ending her life.

She knew this was not the answer and that she could not do that to her children.

It took alot of deep reflection and a spiritual connection to God for Cora to finally heal her heart and change her mindset so she could refocus and rebuild her dreams once more.

Today, Cora Cristobal is a successful real estate investor, with properties in North America and the Philippines. Cora has authored six books, is a mentor and the Founder of the Toronto Women’s Club whose mandate is to empower women to success. As a public speaker, Cora has shared stages with legends Brian Tracy, top motivational speaker and self development author; Jack Canfield, co-creator of the Chicken Soup for the Soul; Robert G. Allen, Nothing Down in real estate guru; and Kevin Harrington, the “Original Shark”.

• •

Building great relationships, networking and collaborating with other successful people Staying spiritually grounded

3. What is your message to Filipino Canadians (particularly women) who are aspiring to reach the kind of success you have achieved?

• Find out and decide what you really want • Build your vision and purpose around what you really want • Set your goals around your vision and purpose • Believe that everyone has power to become, do and have anything you want • Invest in yourself and work hard at it • Always be intentional while having genuine intentions • Work with someone who already has what you want • Hire a mentor who has achieved what you want to achieve • Surround yourself with positive, successful and happy people • Get rid of what you don’t want in your life (physical, mental, psychological, emotional) • Do not give up and do whatever it takes • Develop good habits like the being a member of the 5 AM Club (it’s free!)

• Work on your fears and limiting beliefs • Be willing to take risks Cora Cristobal believes that what you are today is the result of the decisions you made yesterday, so it’s important to think about the changes you want to make today that will shape your future. Cora is also a firm believer that success is 90% personal growth and transformation, while the other 10% is the how to, so it’s important to invest in yourself. Finally, anything is possible, and nothing is impossible and if she can do it, so can you.

Many Filipinos take the leap of faith to journey to a new country for a better life.

While immigrating to a new country has its challenges, Cora Cristobal proved that despite that, and being a single mother in the face of great trials and hardship, that it is possible to achieve all your dreams. We all have the potential to achieve what we want, and not by luck, but by following a certain path. Cora’s message is truly one of hope, that everyone can do this. She deeply believes that to be successful you need to do what other successful people do, as they say “success leaves tracks” so follow the tracks. Often times, the road less traveled are the ones that should be “most often” traveled. •

Far West Herald asked Cora Cristobal about her thoughts on success in the face of losing it all and what she did to turn her life around in a really big way.

1. What would you say helped you to overcome the challenges you faced in life, which eventually lead you to a path of success? Did you have an “aha moment” and what was it?

“My “aha” moment is when I realized these challenges are actually opportunities that led me to a new purpose and a new meaning to my life. This new path in turn led me to quit my 15 year old job to focus in building this new purpose and meaning that is now growing to impact many people’s lives, that is giving hope and empowerment to people.”

Cora cites that personal growth and spiritual transformation helped her to overcome her challenges, while developing good habits helped her in her path to success. Applying new habits like the 5 AM Club. Getting up early and going for a walk, doing daily meditations, affirmations and visualizations, journaling and writing things you are grateful for, goal-setting and planning her day, and reading are all part of her daily routine.

2. What would you say are the key success factors that helped you from earning $35K a year (single mom of four) to earning millions?

• Having a mentor • Investing in myself • Building my brand by building credibility through writing books and surrounding myself with legends and speaking on stages with legends.

• Investing in real estate

FWH Staff attend Cora Cristobal’s recent live event on “Wealth Mastery” with Jack Canfield.

For more information about Cora Cristobal and the Toronto Women’s Club, visit https://torontowomensclub.com/ Source: www.philippinesaroundtheworld.com

Lifestyle Editor Marie Arevalo Marie has a wide array of business experience in multiple industries, from finance, personal development, and even startups, holding various positions in marketing, sales, customer service and operations. Marie loves travelling, all kinds of food, music (listening and playing), movies (watching and making amateur films) and a great love for animals especially dogs. Marie is a mother and wife and companion to one big yellow lab rescue.

If you have any suggestions on topics, or have visited an interesting place, tell us about it at marie@farwestherald.com.

MAY 2019

CANADIAN NEWS

THE FAR WEST HERALD

Cora Cristobal Founder, Toronto women’s Club I Real Estate Investor I Author I Mentor I Speaker

Founder of Toronto Women’s Club (TWC), 3x Best-Selling Author, 2 x Award-Winning Author, Coach and Mentor, International Speaker, Real Estate Investor, Realtor, Consultant.

A CPA by profession, Cora was a successful accounting professional having worked with multinational companies then embarked on a highly rewarding real estate career.Cora is an avid international traveller and enjoys making new friends, connections and collaborations.

She has published award-winning “Journey to a New You: 12 Habits to a Happy and Successful Life’, “Authorities”, co-authored with celebrities Dr. John Gray, Marci Shimoff and Raymond Aaron; International Best-Selling ‘Secrets To Real Estate Wealth’ with Sunil Tulsiani and The Secret To Wealth with Brian Tracy, “Handbook To Holistic Health” with Dr. Ona Brown and “Reach Your Greatness with James Malinchak. Her next book on the pipeline is re-writing “The Science of Getting Rich” with Sunil Tulsiani and co-authoring with Robert Allen and Kevin Harrington.

She has shared stages with Jack Canfield, Brian Tracy, Robert Allen and Kevin Harrington speaking on personal growth, transformation, success and how to acquire wealth through real estate.She is the co-producer of Wealth Mastery With Jack Canfield Live Event in Toronto on April 6, 2019.

Cora is now building a legacy through Toronto Women’s Club – helping people build a more meaningful, happier and successful life by education, inspiration and empowerment. You can follow Cora at www.TorontoWomensClub.com and email her at cora@torontowomensclub.com.

To learn more and schedule Cora, please contact: Email: cora@torontowomensclub.com Phone: 905-820-5686 www.TorontoWomensClub.com

Cora’s Topic Include: 1. How To Buy Discounted Real Estate Properties 2. Nothing Down Techniques In Real Estate Investing 3. How To Become Financially Free 4. Secrets To Becoming Powerfull, Successfull & Wealthy 5. How To Build Your Credibility

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THE FAR WEST HERALD

LIFESTYLE

MAY 2019

On Motorcycles and Riding Safety Leyte town gets add’l outlay to boost tourism

In my previous article, I mentioned the advent of spring, the warmer weather – well, I may have spoken too soon. On the 11th day of April, the day this article was written, a “low” of -3°C was recorded in the Greater Toronto Area. It is the average minimum (or coldest) temperature around this time of year. However, coming from consecutive sunny days with double-digit temperatures, a sub-zero reading is not something to be desired.

April is expected to bring us rain showers and warmer days. For me, as a motorcyclist, it marks the start (although early to some folks) of riding season. I have had the pleasure of owning several motorcycles from different manufacturers including Triumph, Harley Davidson and Indian Motorcycles. By far, my favourite has been the latter – yes, I am a proud owner of an Indian Scout 60. A very nimble cruiser with a 1000-cc displacement, which is in my opinion, powerful enough to provide a fun riding experience.

Riding season – the Ministry of Transportation runs safety campaigns to remind motorists of motorcyclists on roadways and highways. Electronic signs are aplenty along the Highway of Heroes or, what most of us refer to as Highway 401.

Police services in Ontario run traffic safety campaigns (sometimes called “blitzes”), periodically. These campaigns are an effective way to remind motorists of the presence of cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians, including school children (around the start of school year). In Toronto, we have units that are dedicated to traffic enforcement. And no, police officers do not have to meet a monthly “quota” as most of you think.

My policing experience is somewhat limited to primary response (9-1-1 calls, non-emergency calls, general patrol duties) and community safety response (community complaints, community safety initiatives). This does not mean that I have not been involved in investigations involving loss of life – including traffic fatalities. One summer afternoon in east-end Toronto, I became involved in such an unfortunate incident. This one truly stands out, in a negative way, as a young, novice motorcyclist lost his life. Witnesses stated that the motorcyclist rode at an “extremely high rate of speed”, causing him to lose control of his super sport motorcycle.

I have vivid memories of the incident. I remember the deceased’s family and friends as they flocked to the crash scene. I could still hear the cries and their pleas to let them through the “police line”. Folks and my dear kababayans, most if not all collisions (or accidents) are avoidable. Speed is usually a factor. Sadly, for the young motorcyclist, it was a costly mistake.

And so, consider this a friendly warning, a plea or reminder – riding season is here. To motorcyclists, please keep in mind that you are riding a two-wheeled machine. You are not afforded any room for error. Make sure you wear at the very minimum a CSA-certified helmet, riding gear and the appropriate clothing. A “wheelie” is considered as stunt driving under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act. Read below: The HTA states, under s. 172(2) that: Every person who [commits the offence of stunting or racing] is guilty of an offence and on conviction is liable to a fine of not less than $2,000 and not more than $10,000 or to imprisonment for a term of not more than six months, or to both, and in addition his or her driver’s licence may be suspended Anyone convicted faces hefty fines and sanctions.

To all motorists, please be mindful of the presence of cyclists and motorcyclists on the roads. Let us have a fun and safe riding season! •

At your service,

by Police Constable Matt Romeral

The contributing writer is a proud Filipino and an 11-year veteran of the Toronto Police Service, assigned to 32 Division in North York. An avid cook, photographer, artist, writer and entrepreneur. Questions or comments? Please send an e-mail to b10231@ torontopolice.on.ca Follow me on Social Media: Facebook @Constable Matt Romeral, Twitter and Instagram: @OfficerRomeral

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Kalanggaman Island in Palompon, Leyte. (Photo courtesy of the Department of Tourism)

PALOMPON, Leyte, March 25, 2019 -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) has turned over PHP1.5 million worth of various gears to three people’s organizations (POs) in this town as part of the post-Yolanda Comprehensive Recovery and Rehabilitation Project for tourism.

On Sunday, DOT Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes handed over gears to members of the Liberty Eco Adventure Park, Palompon Eco Park, and Palompon Tour Guides Association.

“I would rather have a people’s organization as beneficiaries every time we have projects because it really benefits poor communities,” Tiopes said during the turnover ceremony.

She added that the gears and equipment for the POs will help them in promoting other destinations in the town aside from Kalanggaman Island, which is already known as the region’s prime destination.

“I hope that you will take care of these equipment and use it to make the mainland of Palompon shine and not only Kalanggaman so that you can earn more,” Tiopes said.

Liberty Eco Adventure Park tour guides received PHP873,000 worth of rope, harness, rescue pulley, rescue helmets, head lamps, tents, sleeping bags, hammock, cook set, solar camping lantern, survival knife, trekking shorts, compression pants, compass, trekking pole, flashlights, among others.

Palompon Eco Park members received PHP218,250 worth of search lights, night vision binoculars, military torch, tear gas, handheld radio, jacket, raincoat, handcuff, boots, outdoor pants and shorts, water sports shoes and shirts.

Meanwhile, the Palompon Tour Guides Association received PHP436,500 worth of equipment such as handheld radios, scuba air tanks, dive mask, dive fin, dive computer, side mount, underwater flashlight, dive regulator, weights, weight belts, dive knife, wetsuits, polo shirts and long sleeves, outdoor pants, boots, and water sports shoes.

“With these gears, tourists who will visit Palompon will really enjoy because they have lots of things to do aside from visiting Kalanggaman. Their long hour of travel will be reciprocated with the numerous activities that they can do while they are in this town,” Tiopes said.

“Whatever income Palompon is gaining now, it will now spread to the community because of these destinations that the town developed,” she added.

The Palompon local government, on the other hand, received PHP2.9 million for the repair and rehabilitation of local tourism building; PHP1.89 million for the rehabilitation of Tabuk Marine Park, Fish and Bird Sanctuary; and PHP388,000 for further improvement of Kalanggaman Island.

Located in the western part of Leyte province, Palompon is more than 120 kilometers away from Tacloban City and can be reached after two-and-a-half hours of land travel.

The town is famous for its Kalanggaman Island that is known for its sandbar stretching to about 753 meters at the eastern side.

In 2018, Kalanggaman Island exceeded its income target of PHP21 million with a total earning of PHP22.19 million generated from tourist receipts.

The town welcomed 104,203 domestic tourists and 9,353 foreign tourists last year. • Roel Amazona, PNA

Yo u ’re bu sy an d o n the go, a nd d on’ t wa nt to be tet h e re d to a d e s k or a bu lk y pr int prod u c t a ll t h e t ime . Ju s t s ta y connec te d : www. fa r we s th e ra l d. com # fa r we s t h e ra ld

MAY 2019

LIFESTYLE

DOT eyes 2 new cruise tourism sites in Eastern Visayas TACLOBAN CITY, March 25, 2019 -- The Department of Tourism (DOT) in Eastern Visayas is eyeing two additional tourist destinations in the region to be part of cruise tourism.

DOT Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes said they have seen the potential of Sambawan Sambawan Island in Maripipi, Biliran is being pitched as one of the new Island in Maripipi, Biliran destinations for cruise tourists. (Photo courtesy of Department of Tourism) and the town of Liloan in Southern Leyte to attract cruise tourists.

“We are preparing these places and pitching these sites to cruise tour operators who are interested in looking for new sites,” Tiopes said.

Sambawan, a semi-curved island that is about an hour sea travel from Kawayan port, features a series of interconnecting stony islets with soaring rock formations covered with green grass. It has become the most visited attraction for tourists in the province.

The island is also a marine sanctuary and a popular dive site. It has an extensive wealth of marine life, good visibility, and corals that are in good condition. Turtles, sea snakes, and reef sharks are also found there.

A view deck was built at the highest point to give tourists the best view of the entire island and witness the spectacular sunrise and the glorious sunset.

Meanwhile, Liloan town, one of the gateways for travelers from Mindanao to Eastern Visayas, offers some of the best beaches in Southern Leyte province that gives tourist awesome time of relaxation and adventure.

Tagbak Marine Park is one of the popular sites in Liloan ideal for swimming, snorkeling, diving, sea turtle watching, and wild duck watching.

The Molopolo Beach Resort, also in Liloan, offers tourists a long stretch of fine white sand and a clear water ideal for boating and surfing.

“In pitching a site, we look at the authenticity of its tourist destination, the history and culture, and cooperation of the local government units and the community to make the site viable for cruise ship destination,” Tiopes said.

As a multi-million leisure industry, cruise tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the tourism industry that provides a significant contribution to the economy and communities to its destination.

Since 2013, Eastern Visayas has been part of the itinerary for port call of cruise ships visiting the country. Most of these are expedition cruises which involves smaller cruise ship with capacity of 100 to 300 tourists.

Those who are into expedition cruises are tourists looking for authentic natural attraction and sites and do community and cultural immersion.

Regular cruise ships destinations in Eastern Visayas are Kalanggaman Island in Palompon, Limasawa Island in Southern Leyte, Capul Island in Northern Samar, and Cuatro Islas in the towns of Inopacan and Hindang in Leyte. • Roel Amazona, PNA

Beyond sands and waters: Pinoys’ love for beaches MANILA, April 11, 2019 -- With the Philippines consisting of more than 7,100 islands, one can hardly find Filipinos who are not fascinated with beaches.

And with the peak of the summer already here, who could resist an escape to the cool blue waters of an island resort?

Filipinos go to the beach to relax, have fun and flaunt their “bodies”, according to independent film director Jojo Nadela. “(Some Filipinos go to the beach) just to show off their beach body while others use the opportunity as (a) ‘moving on’ experience, especially those just coming from failed relationships,” he said in Filipino.

For Walter Lopez, a drummer, Filipinos, especially the millennials, flock to the beach for a “picture perfect” adventure combined with a fabulous #OOTD (outfit of the day) that can go trending on social media accounts, like Facebook and Instagram.

But for him, a visit to the beach is simply an opportunity to take a breath of fresh air.

“When I got older, I would go to the beach in order to relax myself and breathe fresh air,” Lopez said.

Meanwhile, for Ericka Louise Cirera, a graduating University of the East A beach in Potipot Island, Sta. Cruz, Zambales. (PNA student, going to the beach is a surefire photo by Priam Nepomuceno)

THE FAR WEST HERALD

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way to ease the heat by swimming and savoring the cool ocean breeze.

For Trisha Alcantara, an account executive, having an opportunity to go the beach means getting a tan and a chance to enjoy the waves.

For educator Redjie Rebugio, the Filipinos’ fascination for the beach stems from the fact that we are “children of the sea”.

“The Filipinos’ closeness to the beach is (due to the fact that we are a seafaring nation and explorers), hence our affinity (to) the sea,” he added.

Rebugio’s views were also shared by layout artist John Imperio, who said the Filipinos’ penchant for water comes from the fact that they like to sail and explore during the ancient times.

For Tiea Villanueva, an electronics engineer, going to the beach means breaking free from the horrendous traffic in Metro Manila and pressures from the workplace.

“Filipinos want to go the beach. It provides them with peace of mind and honestto-goodness relaxation and relief from toxicity you’ve always been dreaming of. Also, Pinoys seem to enjoy the road trip and preparations that entail a beach outing. And due to social media, a lot of beautiful and previously unknown beaches are being discovered and are now being visited,” she said.

For freelance writer, Yashika Torib, going to the beach invokes a sense of relaxation.

“It (going to the beach) evokes a sense of peace and relaxation (from) the view -the sound, and the feel (of ocean waves crashing in the sand),” she added.

Torib added that a trip to the beach is also a time to bond with family and friends. • Priam Nepomuceno, PNA

Eastern Samar eyes more tourists

EASTERN SAMAR GEM. Calicoan Island in Guiuan town is the most popular destination in Eastern Samar province.

The destination known for surfing has white sand beaches with rocky bottoms. In the middle of the island are six lagoons ringed by forest, the largest being 30 hectares in size. (Photo courtesy of Eastern Samar provincial government)

TACLOBAN CITY, April 11, 2019 -- A local government official in Eastern Samar is eyeing to quadruple the province’s share of the regional tourist arrivals in the next three years.

With 22 towns and one city, Eastern Samar’s PHP841 million income from tourism is very small compared to what other provinces get from this industry, Giporlos, Eastern Samar Mayor Mark Biong said Wednesday.

“It’s high time to have a share equal to what we have in the province. Our islands are so pristine and clean. We have destinations comparable to popular sites in the Philippines,” Biong told reporters.

The three-term mayor, who is seeking a seat in the provincial board, vowed to push for tourism development in the province. He admitted, however, that during his term as mayor of Giporlos town, he was not inclined about tourism promotion since there are more beautiful places in other towns of Eastern Samar.

Citing data from the Department of Tourism, the region had a share of 5.19 percent of all tourists that visited the region in 2017. The share went down to 4.49 percent in 2018, Biong said. The target is to raise the tourism arrival share of the province to 20 percent by 2022.

In 2017, Eastern Visayas welcomed 1.46 million visitors. It estimated that 1.75 million tourists arrived in the region in 2018.

“We need better infrastructure, more aggressive promotion, and new investments to attain tourism gains. Likewise, we have to make sure that tourism activities are sustainable and locals really benefit from it,” Biong added.

Among the destinations in Eastern Samar province are Calicoan Island in Guiuan town, Yolanda beach in Salcedo, Amandaraga Falls in Lawaan, Dangkalan Pacific Beach in Taft, nature parks in Hernani and Balangkayan towns, and the Balangiga Bells.

The most popular site is Calicoan Island, a destination known for surfing. It has white sand beaches with rocky bottoms. In the middle of the island are six lagoons ringed by forest, the largest being 30 hectares in size. At the cliffside margin of the island’s forests are dozens of caves.

Eastern Samar occupies the eastern portion of Samar Island, the country’s third largest island. Bordering the province to the north is the province of Northern Samar and to the west is Samar province. To the east lies the Philippine Sea, part of the vast Pacific Ocean, while to the south lies the Leyte Gulf.

The province has a poverty incidence of 46.9 percent, one of the highest in the country. Its population is 467,160 as of 2015. • Sarwell Meniano and Lizbeth Ann Abella, PNA

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THE FAR WEST HERALD

LIFESTYLE

MAY 2019

HOW TO LIVE A LONG, HEALTHY LIFE MANILA, April 14, 2019 -- Most people dislike growing old because of the many physical changes that happen to the body brought about by ageing. But did you know that there is an increasing number of individuals who look forward to old age, particularly getting old in a healthy way?

According to a 2018 Philippine nutrition survey conducted by Herbalife Nutrition Foundation, 97 percent of Filipinos agree that everyone can age healthily and that they can take positive steps towards healthy ageing.

The survey also showed that 89 percent of those who agreed have already started with their personalized plans on living healthy at their current ages.

Herbalife Nutrition Foundation is a non-profit corporation providing good nutrition education to make the world healthier and happier. It supports 130 programs promoting children’s healthy growth and development through good nutrition worldwide.

Dr. Jamid Jan bin Jan Mohamed, chairman of the Nutrition & Diabetics Program at University Sains Malaysia, says ageing is an inevitable process but everyone can take action to age healthily, during the Herbalife Nutrition Forum on April 12, 2019 at the Makati Shangrila Hotel. (Photo by Ma. Teresa Montemayor)

“The keyword in healthy ageing is obviously ‘health’, and the World Health Organization (WHO) says it has three aspect and they are the physical, mental and social health. Physical meaning you have no disability and no disease while mental means you’re free from depression, suicidal attempt, stress that damages your physical health and, finally, social, when you are having good social life with your family members, neighborhood and in the community, and you’re not alone and lonely,” said Dr. Jamid Jan bin Jan Mohamed, chairman of the Nutrition & Diabetics Program at University Sains Malaysia, Friday in a forum in Makati City.

Mohammed explained that having a good health as you get older is beneficial to you and the people around you.

“Healthy ageing will allow you to enjoy long and quality life with your family and friends, meaning they can enjoy your company longer. You can work more because you’re disease-free and you will not spend money to buy medicines,” he said, adding that nutrition and wellness are the keys to achieving such state.

In connection to this, Mohammed stressed that weight management is the first thing individuals must focus on.

“Obesity is the mother of all diseases and when you’re obese you’re susceptible to diseases like diabetes, hypertension and cardiac arrest. Once you have ideal weight, you will need to pay attention to your digestive health, heart health and bone health,” he said.

Healthy food choices, exercise In an earlier interview with the Philippine News Agency, 108-year-old Juanita Cariaga shared that the secret to her long and healthy life is her fondness for malunggay (moringa), camote tops and other backyard-raised vegetables in her village in Echague, Isabela.

Mohammed said the problem of obesity in the Philippines and other Asian countries root from eating rice and bread which are very high in calories.

“Eating a lot of rice, calories are suitable before because people need the energy to work on the farms. But now, there are work and lifestyle changes, you just work at the desk, the amount of calories you burn are less, and this is the mismatch between the energy we take and the energy we use, the excess energy will be stock in the body and it will make you fat slowly,” he said, adding that eating fruits, vegetables and white meat is important in becoming healthy inside and out.

Mohammed explained that good digestion can be achieved through sufficient consumption of fiber-rich food like fruits, grains, oats and vegetables for bowel movement which helps in the removal of bodily toxins.

“Fiber lubricates your gut, so the stool can pass and go out of your body easily.

Unfortunately, not all people eat the five servings of vegetables and fruits a day recommendation of WHO,” he said.

He said researches show that three portions of vegetables and two portions of fruits a day decrease the possibility of heart diseases and colon cancer.

“But many people make excuses about eating vegetables and fruits, that they’re expensive and difficult to eat because you need to cut them open,” he said.

Apart from eating healthy, Mohammed underscored the importance of physical activity in having a long life.

“Living a sedentary lifestyle is one of the main factors for heart attack. We don’t walk a lot now, we don’t run, we don’t work in the farm, we just ride the car and spend most of our time in front of the screen like television and computers,” he said.

Mohammed explained that exercising makes your heart beat and pump blood.

“As it does so, your arteries are being cleared. When we were born our arteries are clean but they become narrower as we grow older and one day there will be a blood clot and lead to heart attack and stroke,” he said.

Cariaga, for her part, said she doesn’t regret any part of her life even though she had a hard time raising her children when her husband died early.

“I would choose the way of living before than now. My family and I were forced to take refuge in a cave in the forests when the Japanese soldiers had occupied the country,” she said.

She said she worked singlehandedly at the rice farm -- plowing and tilling the land -- to feed their eight children.

She thought that her lifestyle explains why she never suffered severe illnesses except for minor headaches, stomach and body pains, arthritis, flu and fever. • Ma. Teresa Montemayor, PNA

REIGNING MISS UNIVERSE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1....

Last February, Catriona was welcomed with two victory parades in Metro Manila. Right after that, she fulfilled a hectic schedule of visiting various charitable organizations such as the Smile Train which helps underprivileged children in need of cleft lip surgery, Love Yourself, the organization on AIDS/HIV education awareness, the Young Focus Philippines that supports children’s education in Tondo, Manila and a fan appreciation event among others.

Last March, Catriona was in Toronto, Canada to support the fund raising for Bantay Bata. The successful event was sponsored by PIDC’s (Philippine Independence Day Council). Representatives from various community TV/Radio and print media were allotted time to have an exclusive interview with the reigning Miss Universe. Congratulations to PIDC, PIDC President Karen Binaday, Ms. Agnes Miranda of WFG, the Miss Universe Organization entourage, Von Canton CEO of MCBN Radio and TV and host Gizele Mirasol for sharing the coverage.

In the interview by Gisele Mirasol of MCBN, Catriona talked about her outfit, which is made of Philippine fabric – Tinalak and Pina. Catriona said that she would love to go to far-flung provinces to talk to the women and encourage them to continue making local fabrics, which she will promote and proudly show to the world. She speaks of taking so much pride in what we have to offer as a country and in our textile. She further says that, “if I can support our country by marketing their textile and their crafts to other people, then we can support that communities that do weaving, textiles and handicrafts and bring pride to whatever their doing.”

Catriona also believes in embracing opportunities that come along. She believes in combining one’s passion and giving back. A trait that is uniquely Catriona’s. An idea that Catriona offered was “to be able to bring people together, to give back to the community through music.” Catriona shared that her dad used to listen to the cassette tape of Miss Saigon. Later when she grew-up, she recognized the voice of Lea Salonga in Aladdin and Mulan and she’s proud the Lea is “Filipino pa”. She admits to being a fan of Lea Salonga but meeting Lea Salonga would be a dream come true.

In 2018, 108-year-old Juanita Cariaga received PHP100,000 from the social welfare department and PHP20,000 from the local government, aside from a plaque of recognition, felicitation letter from President Rodrigo R. Duterte and other benefits. (PNA Photo by Villamor Visaya, Jr.)

“I eat vegetables that are pesticide and preservatives free, and I enjoy their delicious taste,” she said.

She added that she is used to long walks as they don’t ride much during the early years.

Asked what she misses now with her hectic schedule. Catriona says she misses going to her favorite coffee shop, zoning out and just listening to music. I’m quite a homebody. If I’m not exploring the city in New York, I’m usually catching up on sleep or binge watching.

CATRIONA GRAY, confidently beautiful, confidently Filipina. MISS UNIVERSE 2018. Photo credits: Ryan Orlanda of MCBN Beverly Vergel, FWH

LIFESTYLE

MAY 2019

THE FAR WEST HERALD

15

SHELLAND HOUSE OF FILMS PRESENTS:

W’AT ABOWT US

A WOMEN’S DOCUMENTARY BY BEVERLY VERGEL W’AT ABOWT US is the response: a factual documentary told from a different point of view. Eight women from all five significant cultural backgrounds share their stories of vulnerability and shame which took place in a multitude of settings: from the home to the workplace; from the church to community settings. In some cases, these women were also physically and emotionally harassed and abused.

WHAT ABOUT THIS PROJECT? The #metoo movement exploded into news headlines in October 2017, exposing the breadth and depth of male sexual exploitation of females. However, in the year since, the men who have been exposed were larger-than-life celebrities hailed from the arts and entertainment industry, the media profession, or the political arena. While the legitimacy of their victims’ stories and their claims are not being questioned, what has emerged is a somewhat narrow spectrum of predominantly white women.

So many more aspects in this long-hidden reality of the sexes need to be raised; for example, cultural backgrounds of the women, the settings in which the abuse or harassment took place, and the fact that the harm inflicted on women were not only sexual but also physical and emotional. The utterly painful plea of abandoning an abusive relationship could be perceived as antagonistic to the social norm.

The #metoo movement didn’t come from nowhere. W’AT ABOWT US shows that this issue exists everywhere. These women have found their own strength in coping with the past, but they are all at different stages in their healing process.

That unclear question W’AT ABOWT US is as essential as the fearless trait of the writer and the producer. Yet, the significant takeaway of this documentary is to educate and bring awareness of the diversity of this issue over and above what is being shown in mainstream media.

WHAT ABOUT SMJ MAGAZINE? In June 2013, an image lifestyle business magazine called SMJ Magazine was launched, reporting on fashion & design, arts & entertainment, health & wellness, and faith & community. In the over five years and 23 issues that SMJ has been published, the ideals set out in the vision for the magazine have never wavered: a diverse, ‘good news’ publication showcasing inspiring and uplifting stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things; to dream bigger, reach higher and achieve greater.

WHAT ABOUT SHELLAND HOUSE OF FILMS? At the beginning of 2016, SMJ Magazine underwent a major re-branding.

Among other things, there was a realization that several published articles had a lot more to say than what had been printed. There was, in fact, a ‘story behind the story.’ This realization became the impetus to expand into multimedia. With film being the most attractive and far-reaching medium to take these stories to a wider audience, Shelland House of Films was formed. Six stories from the magazine have been identified as projects. d SMJ Magazine was launched, The couple behind the magazine, the film company, and the documentary are Shelley Jarrett and Andrew Terry Pasieka. Shelley is an award-winning image lifestyle consultant, who is the Founder & Publisher of SMJ Magazine, a partner with Andrew in Shelland House of Films, and Creator & Producer of the film. Andrew is Editor-inChief of the magazine, and Executive Producer, Story Editor, and Scriptwriter of the film.

Beverly described the filming sessions that went into crafting W’at Abowt Us with so much passion and advocacy.

Her directorial venture in this documentary presents eight women of fortitude, finding strength in coping with the past, and healing at different stages, at a confident pace.

PRODUCER AND CONCEPT CREATOR : SHELLEY JARRETT FILM DIRECTOR : BEVERLY VERGEL WITH THE CAST OF CULTURALLY DIVERSE WOMEN

W’AT ABOWT US WORLD PREMIERE (Private Screening) May 9th (7:00 pm - 11:00 pm) Both events at Fox Theatre (Beaches area, Toronto) ATTENDEES & GUESTS: MEDIA & PRESS, BLOGGERS, ART, CINEMA AND LIFESTYLE INDUSTRY INFLUENCERS ; WOMEN’S ADVOCATES & SYMPATHIZERS; SOCIALITES, DOCUMENTARY LOVERS

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16

THE FAR WEST HERALD

ARTS & CULTURE

The Garden at Ciudad de Victoria

MAY 2019

from predators. It is said that these plants will flower only when they are happy.

It looks an ordinary garden from outside, but one can find palpable happiness and inner peace for its royal arrangements.

Ciudad de Victoria offers a free Merry-go-round rides for all ages. The rides may not be the ones one can expect from famous amusement parks but should be just enough to skip a heartbeat for joy. For some, it takes you to someplace in another time.

The place offers a serene and tranquil beauty suitable for engagement photos, or simply Instagram-worthy events. Since its inception from last year, The Garden has been vastly improved with the opening of its Phase 2, an enchanting park teeming with exotic flowers.

The Garden also houses the Animal Kingdom where one can find exotic animals like porcupine, wild boar, chimpanzees, lions, donkeys, alpaca, albino carabao, crocodiles, camel, bear cats, different breed of snakes and birds and horses.

The Garden, which was conceptualized by INC Executive Minister Eduardo V Manalo and was under the supervision of INC General Auditor Glicerio Santos Jr. has transformed into a haven not only for tourists but for families, as well.

Chris Dimond, of PWP Landscape Architecture, the landscape architect of the

Celebrated as the most ambitious project on a 140-hectare enterprise zone, Ciudad de Victoria sits prominently in the towns of Bocaue and Santa Maria in Bulacan, Philippines.

This rural utopia encompasses the national pride of the Philippine Arena, the world’s largest domed arena with a seating capacity of 55,000 alongside the three hectares and 22,000-seater of the Philippine Stadium; two hectares of Philippine Sports Center, and most recently an Iglesia Ni Cristo chapel dedicated on May 18, 2018.

Moving forward, the public will see the second phase development which will include the Eraño G. Manalo (EGM) Medical Center, an 11-storey 1st class modern hospital- a first of its kind in Northern Luzon with 1,000-bed capacity; the New Era University Bocaue Campus, with specialization in sports science, architecture and medical education; and also additional hotels & residential developments.

The plan envisions a more artistic future for a prospering city of Victoria.

Inaugurated in July 2014, the vast property is currently owned by the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), a Christian religion, through its educational institution, the New Era University, and operated by Maligaya Development Corporation.

Ciudad de Victoria and its premises, explained the consistency of its landscape beauty--the curvilinear system of formal trees and covered walkways echo the elliptical form of the Arena connecting two arrival areas, two plazas and a grand stair that leads to the arena.

There’s a green space tucked inside Ciudad de Victoria, one that is comparable to world-class facilities: The Garden. Here it celebrates the symbiosis of plants and flowers and imitates its natural habitat—featuring the dynamics and craftsmanship of landscaping.

The grounds are meticulously cared for and quite breathtaking, with scattered themed gardens and koi pond – a perfect place to switch off, relax and reflect.

It awaits a beautiful exploration…

The Flower Glass Dome is bathed in natural light, providing an inviting ambience.

Add to that visual experience is the subtle floral and geometric patterns, lending a contemporary vibe. The Dome’s canopy is a welcome treat in the heat of the summer.

Time stands still at the Japanese Koi Pond, which keeps watch at the confluence of the Zen garden. Surrounded by artisan stone works, waterfalls and ponds, a romantic bridge suggests expansiveness of the whole place.

Its adjacent Zen garden exudes tranquility.

Exploring inside the Light Tunnel at dusk is like peeking into an enigmatic realm of peace and quiet. When the sun sets, colorful lights brighten up the dry landscape.

It’s quite moving to be invited into the quiet, enveloping beauty of the Orchidarium at night.

Exploring further inside, there is the fascinating array of cacti and succulents at The Garden—spectacular because they evolve in the most extreme environments in the world. They store water in their flesh and can withstand drought quite easily.

A few interesting facts on these: some cacti plants have spines that protect them

The sweeping curves of the Covered Walks mirror the Arena geometry and serve to unify the landscape.

While the Stadium Gardens are defined by vertical layers of palm trees, drifts of informal flowering gardens, and dense hedges that expose two clearings for accommodating large casual gatherings or organized events.

- New Era University Philippine Arena | PWP Landscape, http://www.pwpla.com/6914/&details

For the admiring public, the Covered Walkways provide a necessary relief and protection from inclement weather and intense sun and heat during the remainder of the year.

PWP Landscape Architecture, the landscape architect of the Ciudad de Victoria (http://www.pwpla.com/6914#) shows the varying distances between trees, create spaces with distinct scale, character, and qualities of light.

With all the development happening over at Ciudad De Victoria, there will be soon a mega bus terminal of the north that will decongest traffic in EDSA plus an assortment of structure to be built together with The Garden it will blossom to be the newest tourism mecca of the Philippines.

It is no wonder when Ciudad De Victoria becomes the new Bulacan Global City (BGC) competing aesthetic, tourism, and economic progress with the development of the south. Soon.

When visiting Philippines, see The Garden at the Philippine Arena. It is open daily from 8am to 11pm.

AFTER ALL, IT’S MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES. • Ref: The Garden https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZoqCH-yqYo