The Far West Herald Volume 01, Issue 07

VOLUME 01, ISSUE 07

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

JULY 2019

THE

FARWEST HERALD CANADIANS CELEBRATE FIRST FILIPINO HERITAGE MONTH IN JUNE FROM COAST TO COAST

Vibrant. Pulsating. Resolute.

Filipino Canadian associations, across Canada, continue to hold cultural festivities serving as platforms in showcasing Filipino heritage thru art, music, dance, fashion, culinary arts.

This month of June started off with a robust celebration of the following milestones: 1. The National Filipino Heritage Month, pursuant to Private Members’ Business M-155 introduced in the House of Commons in October 2018- declaring the month of June as Filipino Heritage Month across Canada.

2. June 12, 2019 is the 121st anniversary of Philippine Independence Day 3. The commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of Philippines-Canada diplomatic relations.

These festivities alongside flag raising ceremonies aim to inform and elevate awareness of the Philippine heritage and culture to the mainstream society and gearing towards the benefit of the younger generation.

June 1, 2019--INC choir of the District of Greater Toronto in their rendition of the Philippines’ Lupang Hinirang and Canada’s O Canada!, in English and in French, during the kick off celebration of the National Heritage Month at Albert Campbell Square, Toronto (photo/ Noemie Cruz)

> SEE PAGE 3

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70 REASONS AND MORE TO CELEBRATE FILIPINOS IN CANADA The year 2019 marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and the Philippines which range from people-to-people cooperation, education, and trade.

12 June 2019, Toronto-(Clockwise from the left): (1) Mayor John Tory joins the Filipino community in celebrating the 121st anniversary of the declaration of Philippine independence; (2) Mayor Tory poses for a souvenir photo with Consul Edna May Grecia-Lazaro (middle); Welfare Officer Ms. Ma. Lourdes V. Reyes (rightmost), Pag-IBIG Fund Representative Ms. Elizabeth Borres (leftmost) and Social Security System Representative Mr. Roberto Roldan; and (3) Councillor Jim Karygiannis (2nd from right) of Ward 22 Scarborough-Agincourt and Councillor Josh Matlow (rightmost) for Ward 12-St. Paul pose for a photo with PCG officers. Photo Credit: Mr. Bin Kon Loo of Filipiniana News

Local officials, notably the Mayor of Toronto John Tory, MPP Doly Begum for Scarborough Southwest, Councillor Jim Karygiannis of Ward 22 Scarborough-Agincourt, Councillor Josh Matlow for Ward 12-St. Paul, and former Councillor Neethan Shan, were present to celebrate with the Filipino-Canadian community. > SEE PAGE 2

Other Activities Marking Philippine Independence Day and Filipino Heritage Month The Consulate General attended the reception launching the photo exhibit ``Larawan``, meaning portrait. The event was organized by Philippine Advancement Through Arts and Culture (PATAC) as part of the Filipino Heritage Month celebration. The exhibit will feature portraits of Filipino-Canadians whose work and story has inspired the Filipino community and highlight their positive contributions to Toronto, Canada.

The portraits were taken by Christian Ryan, PATAC`s feature artist for 2019 and will be displayed in various locations across Toronto.

Her Excellency Ambassador Petronila P. Garcia (4th from right), Deputy Consul General Bernadette Therese C. Fernandez (3rd from right) and Cultural Officer Ms. Cecilia Santos (2nd from right) pose for a photo with Brampton City Mayor Patrick Brown (middle) and Brampton City Councillor Rowena Santos (beside Mayor Brown) and some members of the Filipino-Canadian community.

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THE FAR WEST HERALD

EDITORIAL

THE EDITOR’S NOTE The Filipino community in Canada continues to, as it always has, contribute significantly to the economic and social framework of Canada.

This is a thriving community with a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit.

Since 1992, Filipinos have consistently ranked as independent immigrants to Canada. That means they are selected for immigration based on skills and adaptability to contribute quickly to Canadian society and to the Canadian economy. This is significant.

Further, Canada enjoys very strong and friendly ties with the Philippines.

Philippines is an important trade partner and is one of the countries in which Canada.

Now is our time to come together in solidarity and support for one another; to celebrate our accomplishments, to enrich and uphold the culture from which we have emerged, and to flourish and contribute within this beautiful Canadian cultural mosaic. Invests in international development efforts.

It is widely accepted that the largest export of the Philippines is, in fact people – not only to Canada but also to many the parts of the world. This reflects the Filipino character: resilient, perseverant, and adaptive; we are chameleons to our environments. But as inspiring and admirable these traits are, it cultivates the mindset that the culture and community to which we belong to are the very same things we are trying to escape; leaving home and working abroad harbors the mentality that we have escaped a life of poverty, perhaps even giving us a feeling of success and superiority.

Although this may hold truth, this mentality is belittling to our community and waters down our rich, splendid culture. We may also become ignorant to certain issues or parts of our culture that may not be so pleasant – the idea that it is no longer our problem because we are no longer part of it.

This is evident in our tendencies to assimilate to other cultures, especially in the Western society – meaning we mold ourselves to fit into the world around us whether it be through our behaviours, attitudes, trends, fads, beauty standards, and even within the entertainment and media industries. But our Filipino culture has so much more to offer than simply mirroring the culture of others and blending into the background, all at the expense of silencing the voice within us.

It may be uncomfortable to accept all parts of our culture, but understanding and appreciating our unique strengths, perspectives, and ideas can only help us to become stronger, in one united stance.

As we move forward in celebrating our culture, we hope that you will join us in our endeavour in spreading a wide-cast support system for one another, across the country!

We will tell stories of our shared past, encourage cultural and social engagement, and provide a platform from which we can all grow and flourish as a strong and cohesive community.

Appreciating our culture, as well as the cultures of those around us, will help in creating a just and equitable society – it starts with breaking down barriers and putting our own differences aside…only then can we make a lasting difference, for us, and for generations to come.

FARWEST Herald Editor-in-Chief, Monica de Jesus

JULY 2019

70 REASONS AND MORE TO CELEBRATE FILIPINOS IN CANADA FROM PAGE 1... In their remarks, they acknowledged the important contributions of the Filipino-Canadian community to the economic development of Canada and their role in further enriching Canada’s cultural mosaic. The messages of the officials carried a common theme; they cited the shared values of freedom, democracy and the importance of family that binds the Philippines and Canada.

In celebrating the past 70 years of diplomatic and trade relations between Canada and Philippines and the M155-declaration of National Filipino Heritage Month, here are the acknowledgements from the Members of Parliament during the passing of the Members’ Bill on October 30, 2018: Gary Anandasangaree, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism “Canadians of Filipino heritage have contributed in many invaluable ways to the fabric of our society.

Many Filipino Canadians have received international recognition for their work and established themselves as leaders and trendsetters in their fields. They continue to leave an indelible mark on their diverse fabric in every aspect of our lives, strengthening Canada in this process.”

Steven Blaney, MP, Bellechasse-Les EtcheminsLevis, QC on behalf of the Conservative Party “Canadians of Filipino heritage have contributed in many invaluable ways to the fabric of our society.

Many Filipino Canadians have received international recognition for their work and established themselves as leaders and trendsetters in their fields. They continue to leave an indelible mark on their diverse fabric in every aspect of our lives, strengthening Canada in this process.”

Sheri Benson, MP, Saskatoon West, SK “The Filipino community in Saskatoon, indeed in Saskatchewan and all throughout Canada, has enriched Canada’s diversity. Its members have worked and volunteered beside us, contributed to our joint community-building projects, generously offered their leadership in times of need, and have become our friends and neighbours.”

SHAUN CHEN, MP, Scarborough North “Over 850,000 of our fellow Canadian are of Filipino descent, the largest Southeast Asian group in our country. The Philippines is also one of Canada’s largest sources of immigrants. This has led not only to greater intellectual learning but has also strengthened bilateral relations and people-topeople ties between Canada and the Philippines. An example of this relationship was the aftermath of the catastrophic typhoon Haiyan, which impacted more than 16 million people in the Philippines. In those trying times, our two nations stood shoulder-to-shoulder in this tragic aftermath.”

The very first migrants from the Philippines arrived in Canada in 1930.

Many of the original Filipino Canadians were women who came to Canada to work in the health field as teachers and nurses. As more Filipino migrants arrived, they opened businesses, worked in professional positions, doctors, nurses, and teachers.

Kevin Lamoureux, MP, Winnipeg North, Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons

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“I want to talk about the Manitoba story, if I can. Back in November of 1959, we had four people from the Philippines arrive in the province of Manitoba. Kit is believed that they were the first four from that community to arrive. In May 2009, I had the privilege in the Manitoba legislature to introduce a resolution to mark the 50th anniversary of those four nurses arriving in Manitoba.”

“Today, the Filipino community in the province of Manitoba is getting close to 100,000. Think about that. Canada’s population is getting close to 37 million and the Filipino community is getting close to one million. I would suggest that in the province of Manitoba, we get a good sense of how much that community has contributed to the overall economic and social vibrancy of the province. It adds so much value.” •

JULY 2019

HERITAGE

CANADIANS CELEBRATE FIRST FILIPINO HERITAGE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3... The kick-off celebration on June 1st, 2019 sparked succeeding occasions as pivotal. Salma Zahid, a Liberal Member of Parliament for Scarborough Center, Toronto, paved the recognition in her privilege speech.

MP Zahid reasoned out that in the opinion of the House of Commons, “the government should recognize the contributions that Filipino Canadians have made to Canadian society, the richness of the Filipino language and culture, and the importance of reflecting upon Filipino heritage for future generations by declaring June , every year, Filipino Heritage Month.”

It was a landmark unanimous vote of 290 in favor to none against in the Canadian Parliament in Ottawa—declaring June as Filipino Heritage Month in Canada from coast to coast. •

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MPs Salma Zahid (3rd from R), author of M-155, is joined on stage by fellow MPs and officers of National Filipino Heritage Canada who organized the June 1 official kick-off event for Filipino Heritage Month.

(L-R) Tess de Jesus, Lino Eroma, MP Rob Oliphant Michael Levitt, MP Gary Anandasangaree, Rolly Mangante (NFHC Chairman), MP Marco Mendicino, Teresa Torralba (NFHC Exec. Director), MP Salma Zahid, MP Jean Yip and MP Ali Ehsassi. Filipino Heritage is celebrated across Canada, from coast to coast to coast. In Toronto alone, the calendar month is full of community events highlighted by the 121st celebration of Philippine Independence and tributes to our National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal.

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CHARITY

JULY 2019

36 LOCAL CHARITIES AND THOUSANDS OF INDIVIDUALS IN SIX CANADIAN CITIES BENEFIT FROM “FIGHT AGAINST POVERTY” PROJECT OF THE IGLESIA NI CRISTO (INC) AND FYM FOUNDATION TORONTO, Ontario (May 30, 2019) – 7,000 care packages filled with food staples and personal hygiene items were offered to families and individuals in need in six major cities across the nation during Aid To Humanity visits of the Felix Y. Manalo (FYM) Foundation, Inc., the charitable institution of the Church Of Christ (Iglesia Ni Cristo or INC).

36 community organisations were also gifted monetary donations to help support the work they do for families in need.

Attendees received free items together with hot meals, prepared and served by volunteers from the INC at venues in Winnipeg, Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Edmonton and Vancouver May 19-26.

“Every day in many parts of the world, there are lives to improve and souls to nourish,” said INC General Auditor Glicerio B. Santos, Jr. “Our Executive Minister Brother Eduardo V. Manalo and the Felix Y. Manalo Foundation do their best to make the INC a meaningful and helpful presence where poverty needs to be addressed.”

Each event began with a prayer, followed by a video presentation highlighting the different humanitarian projects of the Church and an introduction to the Iglesia Ni Cristo – a program of events seen similarly during the numerous community events held around the world by the Church of Christ.

“These events represent the very best of our community, joining together in a common cause … to make sure that we’re making a difference, not just here at home, but around the world … you are teaching the lesson of giving,” honoured guest Michael Levitt, Member of Parliament for York Centre, said during his speech of appreciation at the Toronto event May 23.

world.”

This was the INC’s second Aid to Humanity Event at Turtle Island Community in less than a year.

MONTREAL, May 20 Following this, 1,000 care packages were prepared for Montreal community members who gathered at the DoubleTree by Hilton on May 20. Also each receiving a $1,000 CAD cheque from the FYM Foundation were the Montreal Children’s Hospital Foundation, Orphan Sun (Soleil des Orphelins), Société de Développement Social, YMCA Montreal, The Open Door, Old Brewery Mission Hall, The Benedict Labre House (La Maison Benoit Labre) and Mile End Community Mission.

WINNIPEG, May 19 Turtle Island Community Centre was the first gathering place for the Aid To Humanity week, where families of Winnipeg’s North End benefited from 3,000 care packages. The FYM Foundation also presented cheques of $2,000 CAD each, to support programs of the Norquay Community Center, the Ma Mawi Chi Itata Center, the Turtle Island Neighborhood Centre and the Knowles Centre Kevin Lamoureux, Member of Parliament (Winnipeg North), and Ted Marcelino, Member of the Legislative Assembly (Tyndall Park) were also on hand to present a Certificate of Recognition on behalf of the Province of Manitoba, honouring the INC for their humanitarian efforts.

“The Church Of Christ has demonstrated such strong leadership in caring for people, helping people that need the help,” Lamoureux mentioned. “I applaud the congregation and in fact the Administration of the Church of Christ for the fine work they’re doing – (not just) today in Winnipeg North, but to compliment them on the aid for humanity that they do around the

OTTAWA, May 21 At the Horticulture Building in Ottawa, more than 500 care packages were prepared for families of the region. Present to each accept a $1,000 CAD cheque donation from the FYM Foundation were the Matthew House Ottawa, Ottawa Food Bank, Le Gîte Ami, L’Ami de l’Entraide and Moisson Outaouais

JULY 2019

CHARITY

TORONTO, May 23 Just blocks away from some of Toronto’s poorest neighbourhoods in North York, families and representatives from the Flemingdon Food Bank, East Scarborough Storefront, North York Harvest Food Bank, and The Redwood Shelter came together May 23 at the National Event Venue at 1000 Finch Ave. W, North York, Ontario.

Each organisation received a $2,000 CAD cheque from the FYM Foundation to use for their respective communities. Guests in attendance, many of whom are clients of the various shelters, benefitted from 1,000 care packages filled with canned foods and personal care items.

In a city where 1 in 4 children live in low-income families, Michael Levitt Member of Parliament for York Centre expressed his thanks: “I want to recognize Bro. Eduardo V. Manalo, the [INC] Executive Minister, for his inspiring leadership of this great event, along with all of the regional Ministers gathered here.”

EDMONTON, May 25 Nearly 1,000 individuals came together for the next Aid to Humanity event of the nation at the Howard Buffalo Memorial Center. 1,000 bags were prepared for families in the Maskwacis region.

Representatives from the Samson Cree Nation, Ermineskin Cree Nation, Louis Bull First Nation, Montana First Nation, Samson Cree Nation Food Bank, Maskwacis Outreach School, Samson Youth and Sports Development, Ermineskin Food Bank, Samson Friendship Centre, Maskwacis Health Foundation, Louis Bull Food Bank and Montana Food Bank were present, each as beneficiaries of a $2,000 CAD cheque from the FYM Foundation to support their work in the community.

Also present to support the Aid to Humanity event were Minister of Indigenous Relations and Member of the Legislative Assembly Hon. Rick Wilson, Montana First Nation’s Chief Leonard Standingontheroad and Samson Cree Nation’s Chief Vern Saddleback.

VANCOUVER, May 26 More than 1,000 guests were welcomed onto the grounds of the INC’s Burnaby house of worship at 5060 SE Marine Drive in British Columbia, the final event of the week’s Aid to Humanity tour and largest INC humanitarian event to date in the region.

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Because the poverty rate in B.C. is among the worst in Canada according to the Government of British Columbia, the Aid To Humanity event, like in the others, contributed monetary donations in support of the Progressive Housing Society, Mom2Mom Child Poverty Initiative and the Surrey Food Bank.

“Organizations like the Church of Christ are invaluable,” said Executive Director Feezah Jaffer of the Surrey Food Bank. “Donations of money and food go a long way … partners and communities like the INC do make an impact on our clients and our community. To see the camaraderie and community spirit, to see the love between the congregation members, it’s so wonderful to see events like these.”

B.C. attendee Beluarbo Marx, who received a care package containing personal hygiene essentials and food items said, “I’ve been in Canada since April. Starting off in a new country, it’s so difficult, so it’s really nice to receive this kind of package. I feel so happy and everyone is so friendly.”

The humanitarian efforts of the INC were not left unnoticed by representatives of the Canadian Government.

Senator Dennis Glen Patterson expressed through a video: “I’m very pleased to bring greetings from the government of Canada and to congratulate you on your program, your outreach to the homeless and those living in shelter as part of your Aid to Humanity Project,” Mr. Kevin Lamoureux, Member of Parliament, Winnipeg North (Manitoba, Canada) enthused, “The Church Of Christ [Iglesia Ni Cristo] has demonstrated such strong leadership in caring for people;”

INC’s socio-civic programs like this aim to strengthen the bond between the congregations of the Church of Christ and the communities in which they serve. Global humanitarian projects, most especially in North America, are set to continue and even more increase – a result of the INC’s growing membership and availability of houses of worship worldwide.

“We’ve heightened our assistance efforts for immigrants, indigenous peoples, female lone-parent families, members of racialized groups, persons with disabilities and other sectors where poverty incidence is higher based on Canadian population statistics,” said Santos Jr. “Our focus, like before, is on the needy and vulnerable.”

In October 2018, the INC’s continued humanitarian work was also recognized in the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba.• PRESS RELEASE

United Filipino Canadian Association of British Columbia (UFCABC) Honoured FYM Foundation with a Humanitarian Award VANCOUVER, BC, JUNE 15, 2019-- United Filipino Canadian Association of British Columbia (UFCABC), an umbrella of 43 organizations of Filipino Canadian community-based associations honoured Felix Y. Manalo Foundation with a Humanitarian Award during the dual celebration of the 121st Philippine Independence Day and National Filipino Heritage Month at the Westin Bayshore in Vancouver.

The guests included Philippine Consul General in Vancouver, Maria Andrelita S. Austria and the consular staff; Don Davies, MP of Vancouver Kingsway; Alice Wong, MP of Richmond Centre, and other dignitaries. > SEE PAGE 10

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PHILIPPINE NEWS

JULY 2019

PHILIPPINES PRESIDENT DUTERTE BATS FOR MORE RESPONSIVE EAST ASEAN GROWTH AREA

Legarda calls for unity to achieve inclusive growth

BIMP-EAGA LEADERS. President Rodrigo R. Duterte poses with leaders from the Brunei Darussalam-IndonesiaMalaysia-Philippines - East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) during the 13th BIMP-EAGA Summit at The Athenee Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand on June 23, 2019. Duterte called for the establishment of a facilitation center within BIMP-EAGA that would make the sub-regional cooperation bloc “more responsive and resilient in view of the dynamism within the region.” (Presidential Photo)

June 12, 2019, MANILA -- As the nation marks its 121st year of independence, Senator Loren Legarda on Wednesday urged Filipinos to unite in ensuring that the Philippines achieves inclusive, resilient and sustainable growth so that every citizen will be free from poverty.

“We have won against the colonial shackles that have plagued our history, but we have more challenges to overcome, one of which is poverty,” Legarda said.

“We need to promote inclusive growth by translating our growth statistics into more job opportunities, stable employment, equitable access to quality education, health services, and other social services, and safe and disaster-resilient communities for Filipinos,” she added.

The outgoing senator said the government should continue to invest heavily in the countryside by strengthening support for the growth of micro, small and medium enterprises to create more employment opportunities; establishing livelihood training programs; and providing technical and financial support to farmers and fisherfolk.

Legarda added the conservation of the environment should also be part of growth initiatives, pointing out that the decline of ecosystems has been determined as one of the underlying drivers of disaster risks and poverty.

But while the government has been instituting reforms to promote inclusive growth, she urged every citizen to support these initiatives.

“Like our forefathers, who shared the vision of independence and united towards its fulfillment, we can only free our nation from poverty if we all work together to make good use of the opportunities that come with an improving economy,” Legarda said.

Unity is also the call of Senator Joel Villanueva, but this time to combat the “social ills” plaguing the nation.

The senator noted that present Filipinos are faced with social ills that hamper our progress as a nation.

“May this day be a fitting reminder of our continuing battle against abuse, indifference, and corruption that come in the form of lost opportunities for our countrymen, unsafe work environment being suffered not only by our local workers but also our OFWs, jobs being stolen by illegal foreign workers, among others,” he said.

“Together, let us unite against these ills and build a nation worthy of the sacrifices of our fallen heroes,” Villanueva said. • Jose Cielito Reganit, PNA

June 24, 2019, BANGKOK -- President Rodrigo Duterte has called for the establishment of a facilitation center within the East Asean Growth Area (EAGA) involving Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said.

Panelo said the President made this push when he participated in the 13th BIMP-EAGA Summit, held on the sidelines of the ASEAN 34th Summit held here, on Sunday.

He said in the meeting that Duterte called a “reunion of old friends”, the President said the facilitation center would be a fully functioning secretariat that would make the sub-regional cooperation bloc “more responsive and resilient in view of the dynamism within the region.”

Panelo said the President also pushed for the realization of the regional food basket strategy to maximize each member-countries economy.

He said Duterte also batted for the development of the halal industry into a global industry and improve air linkages and sub-regional trade through the speedy adoption of a common standard in the operation of non-convention ships.

Panelo said Duterte made these comments even as he wanted the shared borders secured from terrorism and illegal drugs through a deeper cooperation on maritime security.

“President Duterte asked his fellow ASEAN leaders to ensure the full and timely implementation of the Priority Infrastructure Projects under the BIMP-EAGA Vision 2025. The President particularly asked Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad to fast track the negotiations on the barter trade system between the Philippines and Malaysia to create livelihood and generate income along their border areas,” he added.

Panelo said the establishment of a barter system would be “highly beneficial to our countrymen residing in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.”

“The President’s commitment to bring a comfortable and secured life for all Filipinos was apparent in all his talks with foreign leaders and heads of states. He also stressed the value of maintaining fairness in the dealings with other nations,” he added. • Allan Nawal, PNA

JULY 2019

PHILIPPINE NEWS

Romualdez as Speaker good for economy: Salceda May 28, 2019, MANILA -- A ranking lawmaker at the House of Representatives on Tuesday expressed his full support to the Speakership bid of Leyte Representative-elect Martin Romualdez, saying the House needs a leader who will push for the passage of President Rodrigo

Duterte’s priority economic measures.

“Rep. Romualdez’s decision to join the speakership derby is a welcome development as far as the country’s economic managers and business leaders are concerned. Rep. Romualdez as Speaker is good for the economy,” Albay Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda said in a statement.

In backing Romualdez, the senior vice chair of the House committee on ways and means said the former’s knowledge and vast experience in the financial markets and the field of economics would help expedite the enactment into laws of President Duterte’s economic reform agenda.

“Romualdez is not only a banker and economist. He is also a lawyer who knows what are the legislative measures needed to propel the country’s economy to greater heights,” the Albay solon pointed out.

Romualdez holds a Bachelor of Arts in Government from Ivy League school, Cornell University, and a Certificate of Special Studies in Administration and Management from Harvard University.

He also earned his Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of the Philippines.

Meanwhile, Salceda said all the candidates for Speaker in the 18th Congress are his friends and worthy of the position.

“But I am sorry to say this, Martin Romualdez is a cut above the rest. He is primus inter pares,” he said.

“He knows his economics and he knows his politics, too. Definitely, he can unite the House of Representatives and move us into passing vital economic measures needed to sustain the country’s economic growth,” Salceda said.

At present, according to the 2018 estimate of the International Monetary Fund, the economy of the Philippines is the world’s 28th largest economy by Gross Domestic Product (Purchasing Power Parity).

Salceda, who is also an economist, said economic managers and fiscal experts share the opinion that if the Philippines can maintain its projected GDP growth of 6.5 percent in the next decade, the tiger cub economy might well be part of the trillion-dollar club, which currently includes United States, China, India, Japan, Germany, Russia, Indonesia, Brazil, United Kingdom, France, Mexico, Italy, Turkey, Korea, Spain, Saudi Arabia, and Canada.

He also cited the recent report of IHS Markit Asia-Pacific chief economist Rajiv Biswas which predicts that in 2022, the country will reach the upper middle-income status as robust economic growth trickles down to household incomes.

The report noted that the Philippine economy is poised to double by 2026 en route to a GDP USD1 trillion by 2032.

“The Philippine economy is definitely on the upswing. We need to

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sustain the momentum and we all need to help realize the President’s economic reform agenda. The House of Representatives needs a leader who understands this challenge and is willing to step up to the plate,” Salceda said, referring to Romualdez.

Besides Romualdez, other prominent aspirants for the speakership are Marinduque Rep. Lord Allan Velasco and Davao del Norte 1st District Representative Pantaleon Alvarez.

Former foreign affairs secretary and incoming Taguig City-Pateros Rep. Alan Peter Cayetano has also announced his interest for the speakership, while outgoing senator and incoming Antique Rep. Loren Legarda was also named as a possible contender.

House Minority Leader and Quezon Rep. Danilo Suarez earlier said that Romualdez has the initial backing of at least 126 lawmakers, who had signed a manifesto of support for his speakership bid. • Jose Cielito Reganit, PNA

EDDIE GARCIA PASSES AWAY

June 20, 2019, MANILA — Veteran actor Eddie Garcia passed away on Thursday afternoon after being in a coma for 12 days. He was 90.

Garcia suffered a neck cervical fracture while shooting a TV series for broadcast giant GMA Network on June 8 and had been in critical condition since then.

GMA on Monday said it is investigating the absence of a medical team on the set.

Garcia was named “Pinakamahusay na Pangunahing Aktor” award for his performance in the 2018 Cinemalaya film “ML” during the 42nd Gawad Urian Awards on Tuesday.

The multi-awarded actor, film director, and producer appeared in more than 600 films and television shows, leaving behind a huge legacy in show business spanning seven decades.

Garcia served with the Philippine Scouts before joining show business.• PNA

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PHILIPPINE NEWS

WASTE IMPORT BAN CAN SPUR NEW INCOME STREAMS June 10, 2019, MANILA – Livelihood and investment opportunities are possible nationwide from the planned environment department’s ban on Philippine importation of recyclable waste.

Such ban will create demand for local recyclables that will replace import cements and power plants use as fossil fuel alternative -- presenting income-generating and business opportunities in sourcing and segregating trash as well as supplying and even processing appropriate domestic waste, Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) assistant director Vizminda Osorio said.

“We have a lot of recyclable waste materials in the country and must maximize use of these,” she said.

Citing National Solid Waste Management Commission (NSWMC) data, a 2017 Senate report said the country generated some 40,087 tons of waste per day in 2016 alone -- up from the 37,427 tons per day in 2012.

NSWMC said biodegradables (52 percent), recyclables (28 percent) and residuals (18 percent) comprised waste disposed nationwide, the report noted.

Authorities expect volume of waste generated around the country to increase further.

Imported waste used as fossil fuel alternative account for about 25 percent to 30 percent of domestic demand for recyclables, Osorio noted.

She said strictly implementing waste segregation and other provisions of RA 9003 (Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000) will enable the country to meet such demand, help create new waste-based income streams for communities and the business sector as well as lessen volume of waste for disposal.

Implementing RA 9003 is the mandate of LGUs nationwide, she said.

“We’re encouraging LGUs to really strengthen segregation particularly of recyclable waste,” she added.

This month, environment chief Roy Cimatu said Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) plans to prepare the order banning the country’s importation of garbage including recyclable waste.

The order aims to help address entry of hazardous and misdeclared cargo like the controversial shipment of mixed waste from Canada, he noted.

He said DENR set such policy direction to avoid future similar shipments into the country as well as environmental, health and diplomatic problems that can arise from these imports.

According to the existing DENR Administrative Order (DAO) 2013-22, recyclable materials containing hazardous substances that may be imported subject to corresponding limiting conditions set in this order are scrap metals, solid plastic materials, electronic assemblies and scrap, used oil and fly ash.

Hazardous substances are substances which present either “shortterm acute hazard such as acute toxicity by ingestion, inhalation or skin absorption, corrosivity or other skin or eye contact hazard or the risk of fire or explosion or long-term environmental hazard, including chronic toxicity upon repeated exposure, carcinogenicity (which may in some case result from acute exposure but with a long latent period), resistance to detoxification process such as biodegradation, the potential to pollute underground or surface water, or aesthetically objectionable properties such as offensive odor”.

“Definitely, we’ll change the policy on importation clearance,” said Osorio.

She said EMB’s technical personnel will review DAO 2013-22 to see which of its provisions must be changed. • Catherine Teves, PNA

JULY 2019

ABS-CBN shares hit 52-wk low on frozen franchise bill

The ELJ Communications Center, a building on the ABS-CBN Corp. compound in Quezon City PHOTO BY PINOYEXPLORER VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

June 17, 2019, MANILA - SHARES of ABS-CBN Corp. slumped to a new 52-week low last week following news that a bill aimed at renewing its legislative franchise did not make it through the 17th Congress.

The listed media conglomerate’s stock price hit its lowest price of P16.80 last Friday before paring losses to end at P16.90.

The Lopez-led firm’s stock declined by 8.45 percent week-on-week from its P18.46 finish on June 7 and by 16 percent since the start of the year.

“ABS-CBN was heavily battered [in] the latter part of the week due to the” House of Representatives’ inaction on the franchise-renewal measure, Philstocks Financial Inc. research associate Japhet Louis Tantiangco explained.

“The selloff was accompanied by a spike in the volume of transactions, showing…that investors really feared the possible nonrenewal of the franchise,” he said.

On June 12, a newspaper report said the lower legislature froze House Bill 4349, which sought to renew ABS-CBN’s franchise — set to expire on March 20, 2020 — by another 25 years. This means the company would not be able to operate should lawmakers in the 18th Congress fail to pass it.

The broadcasting giant was said to be a critic of President Rodrigo Duterte, who has repeatedly threatened to block its franchise renewal since 2017.

Looking ahead, Tantiangco still expressed optimism that ABS-CBN’s might bounce back this year despite posting a 40-percent decline in its net income for full-year 2018 on account of weak advertising sales.

The company saw its net profit jump by 97 percent to P808.4 million in the first three months of 2019 from P410.6 million in the same period last year, with advertising income increasing by 24 percent partly due to political advertisement placements. “[This] showed that the midterm elections would help in the firm’s financial performance for the year,” Tantiangco said.

On the flip side, he also said company’s stock price was expected to keep tracking a downward trajectory as investors are seen to continue pricing in the franchise renewal freeze.

“It could make a turnaround if it could still [get its franchise renewed].

But for that we’ll have to see if it makes progress in the [forthcoming] congress,” he added, saying “time is ticking for ABS-CBN.” ABS-CBN produces a variety of entertainment programs in multiple genres and news programs that are aired on free-to-air television. It is also a radio broadcaster, operating 19 radio stations throughout key cities in the Philippines, and provides news and entertainment programming for nine channels on cable TV. ABS-CBN also owns cinema and music production and distribution outfits in the country and brings its content to worldwide audiences through cable, satellite, online and mobile.

Angelica Ballesteros, Manila Times

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JULY 2019

PHILIPPINE NEWS

Vivienne K. Tan is PAL’s OIC as Bautista retires Philippine Airlines (PAL) yesterday confirmed the appointment of PAL Executive Vice President Vivienne K. Tan as PAL Officer-in-Charge as PAL President and Chief Operating Officer Jaime J. Bautista (JJB) retires effective end of the month.

Chairman and CEO Dr. Lucio C. Tan and members of the PAL board of directors have accepted Bautista’s retirement after he expressed his desire to spend more time with his family, according to the PAL statement.

Bautista is currently in Paris attending the week-long Paris Airshow.

In a message to PAL employees, Vivienne Tan, yesterday thanked Bautista for his many years of dedicated service to the flag carrier.

“As this is the beginning of JJB’s retirement life with his family, let it also be the beginning of even greater dreams for PAL and all PALers… On behalf of my father, I am asking all of you to continue working towards our goals. I am personally committed to working with all of you hand in hand and build on what we have already accomplished,” she announced.

Furthermore, PAL assured its customers, business partners and employees that it’s ‘business as usual’ for the flag carrier. All flights and services are proceeding as scheduled, the company stressed.

For seamless transition, all official communication and concerns requiring the attention and or approval of the PAL president shall henceforth be addressed to Vivienne Tan, the airline stated.

Early this month, Vivienne K. Tan signed a five-year collective bargaining agreement with the airline’s labor union, the PAL Employees Association (Palea), whose members comprise 11 percent of PAL’s 6,829 total workers.

The labor deal, which ensures industrial peace as the airline seeks to hurdle financial challenges, is vital to the expansion of PAL’s domestic and international route network.

A US-educated daughter of taipan Lucio Tan, Vivienne has more than 25 years of professional experience in technology, education, entrepreneurship and social advocacy in industries such as education, airline and property development.

Aside from PAL, she also sits as board member of Tan holding firm LT Group, Inc., Philippine National Bank, Eton Properties, Dynamic Holdings, University of the East and UERMMMC. She is no stranger to the inner workings of PAL, having worked for the airline in various capacities since 2011. Later, she moved to other positions in the LT Group mainly in the real estate, banking and education sectors.

She holds a double degree in mathematics and computer science from the University of San Francisco, as well as a postgraduate Diploma in Fashion Design and Manufacturing Management from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles, USA. In 2006 she received the Ten Outstanding Young Men Award for Business Education and Entrepreneurship and was also conferred the UNESCO Excellence in Education and Entrepreneurship Award in 2007.

London-based airline survey firm Skytrax awarded PAL a four-star rating in 2018 and re-certified the airline as a four-star carrier this year, under Bautista’s leadership.

Australia-based global airline review firm AirlineRatings.com also voted PAL as the world’s most improved airline for 2019.

Notably, since 2016, Bautista has aimed to make PAL a five-star carrier and be in the same rank as ten others, along with Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways and All Nippon Airways, which is owned by PAL shareholder ANA Holdings of Japan.

The top rating will validate PAL’s initiative to acquire new aircraft and

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improve customer service as well as overall inflight experience. However, Bautista acknowledged that the airline may not be able to achieve five-star rating in time for its 2020 original target since airports play a part in the requirement.

At present, Manila does not have the kind of lounges that will qualify for the rating and the congestion at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) adversely affects passenger experience.

Emmie V. Abadilla

Visita Intramuros: Reintroducing Manila’s tourism belt

A tranvia used for tours inside Intramuros.(Photos by Joyce Rocamora)

June 13, 2019, MANILA -- The Manila Hotel, in partnership with the Intramuros Administration, has pilot-tested the Visita Intramuros, a tour of the famous walled city, coinciding with the 121st Philippine Independence Day on Wednesday to reintroduce the place and prominent sites around it as part of Manila’s tourist belt.

“The original tourist belt is the Ermita-Malate-Sta. Cruz-Quiapo-Binondo area. If we can revive this tourist belt, we could once again establish the capital as an attraction,” Manila Hotel president Joey Lina said.

Reintroducing Intramuros as an entry/starting point could also be a way to revive this once vibrant “tourism belt” of Manila, said the former senator.

Intramuros and Manila Hotel are both witnesses to significant events that shaped Philippine history and what the country is today.

Joyce Ann L. Rocamora, PNA

Investments under P50K can offer good return

JUNE 25, 2019, MANILA -- One can start investing below PHP50,000 with guaranteed good rate of return without having to fear being duped into pouring in their hard-earned money to fraudulent schemes.

After the Kapa-Community Ministry International Inc. (KAPA) incident, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has intensified its crackdown against more groups allegedly employing a Ponzi scheme, or an investment program where investors are lured with impossibly high returns and paid out of the capital contributed by later investors.

KAPA was found to have recruited and encouraged members to “donate” any amount in exchange for a 30-percent monthly return for life, without having to do anything other than invest and wait for the payout. > SEE PAGE 10

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PHILIPPINE NEWS

“The rule of thumb is 5 to 6 percent per year. So anything above 6 percent you have to double-check kung sino nagbebenta talaga at kung mababayaran ka (who is really selling the financial instruments and if he can provide the payout),” said Eduardo Francisco, president of BDO Capital & Investment Corp., in an interview with Philippine News Agency.

Francisco pointed out that return on investments of above 10 percent is “too good to be true”.

He cited examples of investments offering good rate of return, including retail treasury bonds (RTBs) or government security bonds, and corporate bonds issued by companies like SM, Ayala, Aboitiz and San Miguel Corp.

“You can get around 5-6 percent on those bonds for a couple of years.

It’s not the 18 percent, 12 percent, 20 percent yield on the scams, but at least you get an assured return,” he explained.

Francisco said banks offer preferred shares, common stocks, investment management account, and unit investment trust funds Ways to avoid investment fraud To avoid becoming victims of scams, Francisco advised prospective investors to look at bank investments or those offered by banks or securities houses.

He said the financial instrument should be registered with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) or the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

“Then, ideally you can check if there is a credit rating… Corporate bonds have credit rating. If there is a credit rating, that’s also better,” he added, noting those with double or triple-A ratings are considered better investments.

Francisco attributed the proliferation of investment scams to “generally low” financial literacy in the country.

“The key in literacy is that: the higher the interest rate that you get, the higher the risk,” he said.

Francisco said the SEC plays a leading role in educating the public about investments and avoidance of investment frauds.

He also underscored the importance of educating students even in elementary and high schools the basics of investing.

Leslie Gatpolitan, PNA

Kapa execs face raps over securities law violations

Kapa Community International Ministry Inc., founded by Pastor Joel Apolinario, lures the public with a 30 percent monthly return on investment. Apolinario is said to be subject of warrants of arrests for the Kapa scam in several courts in the Surigao provinces where it first started operating few years ago.(FB photo)

June 18, 2019, MANILA -- Government regulators are eyeing prison time of up to 21 years and a fine of up to PHP5 million for the leaders of the Kapa Community International Ministry Inc., led by Pastor Joel A. Apolinario.

Aside from Apolinario, named as respondents in complaints filed by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) are trustee Margie A. Danao and corporate secretary Reyna L. Apolinario for violation of provisions of Republic Act 8799 or the Securities Regulation Code (SRC).

In a statement, the SEC said the offenses carry penal provisions similar to other pyramiding scams successfully prosecuted in the past.

“A person will face a maximum fine of PHP5 million or imprisonment of seven to 21 years or both fine and time behind bars. The penalty to be imposed against the respondents should be one degree higher than what is prescribed by the SRC considering the use of Facebook and YouTube in the illegal investment scheme,” the regulatory body said.

The group, which has an estimated 5 million members, pays out PHP100 million a day, according to officials of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), which are eyeing other charges for fraud against Kapa officials.

The scheme is a new twist on an old pyramiding scheme where a newly recruited member who contributes a minimum of PHP10,000 investment, termed by the group as a “donation”, earns a “blessing” of 30 percent interest on his investment. The recruiter likewise earns a portion on the initial investment.

Also named in the complaint were Marisol M. Diaz, Adelfa Fernandico, Moises Mopia, Catherine Evangelista, and Rene Catubigan.

Those who have invested money in Kapa may file complaints with the SEC Enforcement and Investment Protection Department at the Secretariat

JULY 2019

Building, PICC Complex , Pasay City with telephone numbers (02) 8186337 and (02) 818-5324 or at the SEC Davao City Extension Office at SDC Building, Purok 13, Maa, Davao City.

In Cagayan De Oro, complaints may also be filed at the SEC Building, corner of 14th and Tomasco de Lara Streets or call (088) 857-4325 or (088) 857-7225.

The SEC said they will also name respondents who took part in the unlawful public offering and selling of securities of Kapa.

The commission earlier issued an advisory on Kapa in March 2017 and had issued a cease and desist order on February 14 and revoked the corporation’s registration last April 3.

The investment involved the sale and offering for sale or distribution to the public of securities as defined under Section 3 of the Securities Regulation Code.

The SEC said that under Rule 26.3.5 Implementing Rules and Regulations of the SRC, an investment contract is presumed to exist whenever a person seeks to use the money or property of others on the promise of profits.

Likewise, under the SRC, securities shall not be sold or offered for sale or distribution without a registration statement fully filled and approved by the SEC and no person shall buy or sell securities as a broker or dealer unless registered.

The SEC pointed out that since the SRC’s enactment 19 years ago it has made a number of successful prosecutions such as that of Francisco O. Borromeo, who was convicted by the Makati Regional Trial Court (RTC).

In 2015, the Makati RTC Branch 56 convicted spouses Saturnino and Rosario Baladjay of the Multitel International Holdings Inc. who were convicted to a total of 455 years in jail and PHP8 million in fines.

Benjamin Pulta, PNA UFCABC HONOURED FYM FOUNDATION WITH A HUMANITARIAN AWARD CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5... The emcees introduced the Felix Y. Manalo Foundation as an organization That is “accomplishing community services in every country and culture; advocating resourcefulness, resilience, and cheerfulness in adversity or opportune times; fulfilling good deeds, published or not; volunteering in socio-civic activities for countless hours.”

Voltaire Tamisin (4th from left), Minister of the Gospel of the Iglesia Ni Cristo, District Minister of Edmonton, and one of the Board Directors of Felix Y. Manalo Foundation receives the Humanitarian Award from UFCABC President Joel Castillo, ConGen Austria. (photo by Phil Asian News Today)

They paid tribute to the FYM Foundation, the humanitarian arm of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) or the Church of Christ , for being goodwill ambassadors of the Filipino citizenry here in Canada; for spearheading socio-civic activities: from record blood donations, cleanup drives, food bank donations, tree planting, neighborhood appreciation events and at times moving sandbags in towns devastated by historic flooding or tornadoes.

UFCABC has also acknowledged in their introductory speech of the INC’s “selfless act of giving which is based on biblical teachings, and unity with the Church Administration, all inspired by the leadership of INC’s Executive Minister, Eduardo V. Manalo” Consul General Maria Andrelita Austria presented the Humanitarian Award to Voltaire Tamisin, Minister of the Gospel of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), District Minister of Edmonton and one of the Board Directors of the FYM Foundation-Canada. Mr. Tamisin received it on behalf of the FYM Foundation. • Philippine Asian News Today

JULY 2019

PHILIPPINE NEWS

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Romualdez supports 2020 budget Poverty alleviation among Duterte’s goals in his last 3 years hike on infra, human capital JULY 2, 2019, MANILA -- Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar on Monday said the administration of President Rodrigo Duterte will focus on poverty alleviation, infrastructure development, and peace and order in the remaining three years of his presidency.

In a radio interview over DWWW 774, Andanar said achieving these three goals will fortify the “already-formidable” legacy of the country’s first leader from Mindanao.

“Napakarami na pong nagawa ang Pangulo para sa ating mga mahihirap na kababayan pero meron pang mga kailangang maisakatuparan (The President has done a lot for our poor countrymen but there is more to be done) for the last three years of the Duterte legacy at dito tututukan ng gobyerno ang poverty (and here the government will focus on) alleviation, infrastructure projects, and peace,” Andanar said.

He said the Duterte’s long list of accomplishments include the 67 legislative agenda designed to address poverty and to bring comfortable life to 107 million Filipinos.

Some of the legislation passed under the Duterte administration are free education to State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), free irrigation to farmers, free internet services in selected public areas, and assistance to first-time job seekers.

Other notable laws include the Universal Health Care Act, the institutionalization of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), the Farmer and Fisherfolk Enterprise Development Program, and the new Social Security law that enhances state-provided benefits.

He said the achievements as well as future plans and programs will not only be showcased in the upcoming state of the nation address (SONA) of the President but will be extensively discussed in the pre-SONA forums to be held in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

In a separate interview with Radyo Inquirer, Andanar affirmed the government’s commitment to bring down poverty incidence from 21 percent to 14 percent by the end of Duterte’s term in 2022, by sticking with its socio-economic agenda.

“Nangangahulugan po talaga na kailangang matutukan natin ito ng husto by doing the Build, Build, Build program (It would mean we have to give focus on this by doing the Build, Build, Build program),” he said.

He added that the “Build, Build, Build” program will continue to spur the economy as it creates more jobs.

The government, he said, should continue its counter-insurgency efforts through the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC).

“The recipe for progress really is peace so we need peace in the land,” he said.

The NTF-ELCAC was created by virtue of Executive Order No. 70, which institutionalized a whole-of-nation approach against insurgency, marking a shift from the previous militaristic approach.

In line with the creation of NTF-ELCAC, Cabinet Officers for Regional Development and Security (CORDS) have also been designated per region.

Andanar, who was designated as CORDS for Region 10 (Northern Mindanao), recently spearheaded the launching of the Convergence Areas for Peace and Development (CAPDev).

CAPDev seeks to promote the establishment of durable peace and development while empowering communities in the priority focus areas through peace building and reconciliation, socio-economic transformation, good governance, and institution building.

The CAPDev launching was marked by the turnover of 50 houses to residents of Brgy. Iba, Cabanglasan, Bukidnon.

PNA

Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar

July 1, 2019, MANILA -- Leyte Representative Martin Romualdez on Monday expressed his full support to the planned increase in the 2020 allocation for infrastructure and human capital investment, saying the move will help sustain the country’s high-level economic growth and cut down poverty.

The urgent need of allocating more budget for public infrastructure and human capital development next year is part of the roadmap presented

by President Rodrigo Duterte’s economic team during the pre-State of the Nation Address Economic and Infrastructure Forum held at the PICC Reception Hall in Pasay City.

“The economic managers were unanimous in telling us that public expenditures on these major items are the key to attracting more foreign direct investments. Investors need reliable road networks to transport economic goods. They need a competent workforce to ensure world-class products and services,” said Romualdez shortly after the event.

The lawmaker, who attended the forum upon the personal invitation of Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, said increased allocation for human capital such as education, health and social protection is expected in the 2020 budget.

Addressing the funding requirements for the President’s infrastructure projects, including the “Build, Build, Build” Program is also on the table.

“Our economic managers are on the right track. If we support the roadmap that they had presented, reducing poverty by almost half in 2022 is doable,” Romualdez said.

“Definitely, I support the economic team’s road map,” he added.

In the meantime, Romualdez, who is one of the top contenders for Speaker in the 18th Congress, said the event provided him with the complete picture of the country’s economic situation from the viewpoint of the country’s economic managers.

“This will help us, congressmen, in our quest to help find solutions to the challenges that we face in the economic front,” he said.

The Leyte solon said the pre-SONA forum also gave him the opportunity to personally talk to the economic managers and relay to them the commitment of House leaders in expediting the approval of the President’s priority economic bills, especially the immediate passage of the 2020 budget.

During the forum, Dominguez said delays in approving the budget pose a problem in the country’s economy.

The Finance secretary cited the 5.6 percent economic growth in the first quarter of the year, which could have been higher by one percentage point if the budget had been approved on time.

“This is the reason why the 18th Congress needs to pass the 2020 proposed national budget on time and make sure that public infrastructure and human development get the biggest allocation next year,” Romualdez said.

With the pre-SONA forum, the lawmaker said House leaders now have a clearer idea on what to work on in the succeeding multi-party caucuses before the 18th Congress buckles down to work on July 22.

Romualdez was referring to the multi-party caucus of House leaders held last Wednesday that drew the attendance of 40 House leaders from various political parties and influential blocs in the 18th Congress including the PDP-Laban, Lakas-CMD, Nacionalista Party (NP), National Unity Party (NUP), Liberal Party (LP), and the Party-List Coalition.

The caucus was the first in a series of caucuses initiated by the lawmaker in an effort to build a coalition to advance the legislative agenda of Duterte.

Romualdez noted that in the 2019 National Expenditure Program (NEP), the President’s economic team listed infrastructure and human development as the top recipients with PHP1.215 trillion, or about 33.3 percent of this year’s PHP3.757-trillion budget.

“We expect the same priorities in the 2020 NEP. Much has been done, but more challenges remain. We have to hit the ground running and map out strategies on how to fast-track the President’s priority bills,” Romualdez said.

“I will ask our Congress leaders to immediately buckle down to work and discuss this roadmap in our next multi-party caucus,” he added.

He also reiterated the House leaders’ commitment to pass the 2020 General Appropriations Bill by October.

“This self-imposed deadline will give the Senate more session days for plenary debates on the budget. Hopefully, President Duterte will have a national budget ready his signature before the end of the year,” Romualdez said.

Jose Cielito Reganit, PNA

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CANADIAN NEWS

JULY 2019

SUMMER EVENTS IN TORONTO CANADA CARING FOR CAREGIVERS – LAUNCHING 2 NEW PILOTS: HOME CHILD CARE PROVIDER AND HOME SUPPORT WORKER Canada Day at Mel Lastman Square – July 1 Toronto – Canada is caring for its caregivers by launching 2 new pilots that will help caregivers who come to this country make it their permanent home.

The Home Child Care Provider and Home Support Worker pilots will open for applications on June 18, 2019, replacing the expiring Caring for Children and Caring for People with High Medical Needs pilots.

Caregivers will now only receive a work permit if they have a job offer in Canada and meet standard criteria for economic immigration programs.

Once working in Canada, caregivers will be able to begin gaining the required 2 years of Canadian work experience to apply for permanent residence.

Through these new pilots, caregivers will also benefit from: • occupation-specific work permits, rather than employer-specific, to allow for a fast change of employers when necessary; • open work permits and/or study permits for the caregivers’ immediate family, to help families come to Canada together; and • a clear transition from temporary to permanent status, to ensure that once caregivers have met the work experience requirement, they will be able to become permanent residents quickly.

These new pilots provide caregivers from abroad and their families with a clear, direct pathway to permanent residence.

Canada is committed to improving life for immigrants and supporting jobs for the middle class. Infographic: How do the new caregiver programs work? info.IRCC@cic.gc.ca

July 1, 2019 – 6 to 10:30 p.m.

Celebrate Canada’s 152nd birthday from 6 to 10:30 p.m at Mel Lastman Square with music, arts, family friendly onsite activities, and a spectacular fireworks display. Hosted by Devo Bown from Breakfast Television and Entertainment City on CityTV. Free admission!

Join the free Canada Day celebration at Mel Lastman Square presented

by Tim Hortons and funded in part by the Government of Canada on July 1! Enjoy family-friendly fun, performances by Jully Black, DJ Dre Ngozi and School of Groove. The evening ends with a spectacular fireworks display!

Tkaronto Eats & Destination Canada! at Scarborough Museum Celebrate Indigenous food with diverse recipes used to create a menu of indigenous treats during Tkaronto Eats from June 29 - 30. On July 1, enjoy Destination Canada! a day exploring the historic buildings, sampling traditional foods, taking photos at the Instagram station, and seeing activations from the Inprint Collective, blacksmith David Brandow, and Toronto Spinners and Weavers.

Canada Day at Fort York From 10 am to 5 pm on Canada Day, Fort York hosts picnics, free guided tours, music, crafts and cooking demos. Plus - the opening of the guard!

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Summerlicious reservations now open!

Savour the fresh flavours of summer and Toronto’s diverse cuisine with delicious three-course prix fixe lunch and dinner menus at nearly 200 restaurants. Summerlicious, Toronto’s favourite foodie event, returns July 5 to 21. Complete list of restaurants and menus are now available!

City Hall Live this Summer Enjoy an exciting lineup of local musical talent with City Hall Live.

Launched by the City of Toronto’s Music Office to create paid opportunities for the city’s musicians, the event runs all summer long at Nathan Phillips Square, Union Station Plaza & Union Station UP Express.

JULY 2019

CANADIAN NEWS

Speaking notes for Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship: An announcement on Caregivers Speech

As Delivered Scarborough, Ontario June 15, 2019 I’d like to begin by first acknowledging that we are on the traditional territory of the Mississauga’s of the Credit and we thank them every day for allowing us to enjoy and settle in this land.

And, if my t-shirt didn’t give you any indication, I hope you can join me in congratulating Canada’s team for winning the NBA World Championship trophy for Canada. It’s the first time that the NBA trophy has left the United States, and what a wonderful home it’s going to find in Toronto.

So, I want to really begin by paying tribute to caregivers. There are thousands and thousands of caregivers, in the past and the present, who have come to Canada to start a new life and care for our members of the community: families, seniors, and others. Caregivers have helped us raise our children while parents go to school or work. Caregivers make their own contributions to our economy; they support families by enabling many, many Canadians who otherwise may not be able to have someone responsible for their children to work or study outside the home. And we have, as a government, taken the issue of reuniting caregivers with their family members very seriously. It was one of our main priorities when we got into office in 2015 and we’ve improved our support for caregivers by eliminating the 64,000 backlogs in the old Live-In Caregiver Program.

And yes, caregivers used to have to wait between five to seven years to reunite with their own family members. We kept people who are providing such invaluable service to our families away from their own families, and that was unacceptable. And as a government, we said that this was unacceptable, that caregivers needed to be reunited with their own family members. And now, that wait time has come down from between five to seven years, down to 12 months.

But you and many Canadians know that we can still do better by caregivers. Caregivers have provided Canadians with care, and so it is time for us today for Canada to show more care for them. Today, I’m happy to announce two new pilot programs to replace the former pilots. And a lot of this happened because of your advocacy, because of your input and because of great Members of Parliament like John McKay and Salma Zahid. So today, I’m happy to announce the new Home Child Care Provider and Home Support Worker pilot programs.

These two new pilot programs will provide caregivers with a permanent program to become permanent residents to Canada. How will it work?

All people wanting to become caregivers in Canada will be assessed for permanent residency before they arrive in Canada. So caregivers that come here and have a work permit and have a job offer will have a solid path to becoming permanent residents once and for all. They know that once they meet the work requirement, they will have a solid path to become PR. In addition to that, when a caregiver receives the initial work permit through either one of the pilots, that permit will be caregiver-specific, not employerspecific.

This will allow caregivers to be able to leave an employer and work with another employer within the caregiver industry. This is something that we’ve heard very loudly and clearly from you, that you needed the flexibility to be able to remove yourself from a situation in which you felt vulnerable. And so for the first time, we’re moving ahead to make sure that work permits for caregivers are not tied to the employer but are tied to the occupation. That gives you the flexibility, it gives you the confidence, and it also responds to your concerns around vulnerability.

The other major thing is – not only was it the right thing to reunite families faster for caregivers, reduce the processing time, and to eliminate the backlog – in order to prevent this problem in the future, moving forward, caregivers will be able to bring their family members with them. So we’re enabling them to bring their family members, their spouse, and their children. Their spouse will be able to have an open work permit and their children will have a student permit so that they can go to school.

So let me make it clear to everyone in this room and beyond – caregiver families will no longer be separated. And another thing, in the past, caregivers under the previous program required a Labour Market Impact process as part of the work permit process. This was costly for them and time consuming, but we have heard from you loud and clear.

As a government, we listened to you – under these new two programs for

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caregivers, caregivers will no longer need to get a LMI. We believe that these two new pilot programs will address a number of things that you brought forward to us. With work permits for their spouse and student permits for their children, there will be no more family separation. Second, there will be a clear path for caregivers to become permanent residents. And third, we will have a way for you to change your employer without any penalty.

Due to another request from caregivers, finally, the interim pathway to permanent residency for all the people who are part of the Live-In Caregiver Program and who didn’t quite become permanent residents, we know that the deadline has expired in June, but we’ve heard from you, that you would like to extend that program, to allow more people to have a pathway to permanent residence.

So finally, I’m here to also announce, and I’m proud to announce with my colleagues, that the interim pathway program will reopen once again on July 8, 2019, and will be open for three months.

Ladies and gentlemen, what you’re seeing is the Canadian way. The Canadian way is to take care of each other. It’s to look out for each other, and to care for those who care for us. That’s who we are. And we want newcomers to come to Canada to pursue a life of service and contribution to our economy, but also to reunite you with your families and to make you permanent residents, and eventually Canadian citizens, members of the Canadian family, to become members of the best country in the world.

Thank you.

Immigration key to unlocking Canada’s future economic success Attracting skilled talent to drive prosperity for all Canadians June 24, 2019—Toronto, ON – Canada continues to move forward with a bold and long-term immigration plan to spearhead economic growth and support middle-class jobs from coast to coast to coast.

Since 2015, Canada has focussed on attracting the best and the brightest from around the world through specific pilot programs to deliver on the recommendations made by Canada’s Advisory Council on Economic Growth by: • Setting up the first, ambitious long-term immigration levels plan which will strategically increase the amount of immigrant workers needed to support Canadians and seniors as they retire.

• Modifying Express Entry to attract highly skilled global talent and former international students who have the skills Canada needs to fill labour shortages.

• Creating the Global Skills Strategy to attract investments of innovative companies, helping thousands of businesses and benefitting 40,000 people with a 2-week application processing time.

• Introducing the Global Talent Stream, which has been used by more than 1,100 Canadian companies to hire approximately 4,300 highlyskilled foreign workers.

• Making the Start-Up Visa Program permanent, which has attracted more than 300 entrepreneurs leading about 200 start-ups that have been launched in Canada.

• Spearheading the Atlantic Immigration Pilot, an innovative partnership aimed at attracting and retaining skilled immigrants and international graduates to meet the unique workforce needs of the Atlantic region. This pilot has led to close to 1,900 participating employers who made more than 3,700 job offers to skilled foreign nationals or international graduates, resulting in almost 3,000 permanent resident admissions to Atlantic Canada.

• Launching the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot, a 5-year pilot addressing the unique labour and skills needs of rural and northern communities and the ability to create new businesses within those smaller communities. The communities selected will serve as a blueprint for the rest of the country.

Canada is steadfast in its commitment to welcome newcomers from across the globe to make Canada their new home in order to address labour shortages to support businesses and to support Canadians as they retire.

“Our population is aging and attracting the best and the brightest from around the Globe to fill labour gap is key to support our Canadian way of life. Newcomers can also help unlock our hidden potential and create middleclass jobs of the future.”

-The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship

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LIFESTYLE

JULY 2019

Heating things up with sizzling Beating the restaurant fashion tips for your wardrobe industry odds by cooking this summer Filipino home style meals While the weather as of late has been sub par to say the least, you may be wondering what summer has in store for us this year, even when it comes to your wardrobe. Rest assured summer is here, even if the heat isn’t just yet, you can stay fashionable and be summer ready with the following fashion tips:

1. Natural, breathable fibres - fashion doesn’t have to be uncomfortable and nothing beats the summer heat than breathable fabrics.

Garments in cotton, linen and rayon will keep you cooler during the summer months 2. White sneakers - a clean pair of white sneakers will take you far this summer. Wear them with anything, from jeans, shorts, culottes, a sporty dress or a cute sundress, your white sneakers will be the staple footwear all summer long 3. Loose and flowy styles - this season is all about giving your wardrobe a little flare, from shirts, pants, skirts and dresses, go ahead and loosen it up 4. Patterns, prints and florals - the sky’s the limit, be daring and explore, anything goes 5. Dress up your denim - take the blues out of your denim with a dressy top, a pop of color, and accessorize with a cute clutch and pair of bright shoes 6. Colour, colour, colour - go ahead and dive into some colour while pairing it with your favourite summer neutrals 7. White denim - Paired with a patterned or colored top, and bright shoes, this is a cool and well put together look with great appeal 8. White tops and white dresses - from white sneakers, to white denim, continue on with bright white theme by adding that fresh crisp little white top and sundress. You can’t go wrong with white in your wardrobe this summer 9. Bucket hat - ward off the sun’s rays with a cute little bucket hat. A little protection with a fashion statement is a great way to have fun under the summer sun 10. Shorts, sandals and hair accessories - it’s not summer unless your wardrobe include these summer staples. For those with locks who need pulling back during the summer heat, hair accessories have made a come back! With the 80s inspiration coming back into the fashion scene, headbands, scrunchies, clips, slides, and scarves are back in style this season 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.

Yo u ’re b u sy and on the go, and don’t want to be teth ered to a d esk o r a bu lk y print product all th e time. Ju st stay co n n ected : w w w.fa rwes th era ld.co m #farwesth erald

No matter what your background or culture, most of you can agree that nothing beats “home cooked meals.”

After all, what is more satisfying than having your loved ones prepare a fresh meal, and served warmly in the comfort of your home? How about ones that are prepared for you, with the same quality ingredients, flavor and taste of back home, without the hassle and time of making it yourself!

That is exactly what Dolly Kohanyi envisioned for her customers, when she opened up “Carinderia” a Filipino eatery in Mississauga, Ontario on November 4, 2015.

This November, Carinderia will celebrate its fifth year and for the restaurant industry, that is an incredible feat. In fact, ninety percent of independent restaurants fail during their first year Photo by Carinderia in operation, mostly due to lack of capital, and for those that survive, most will operate for another five years. Of those that operate past the fiveyear mark, it is likely they will remain in business for a minimum of ten years [1]. As Carinderia reaches their five-year mark, Far West Herald wanted to hear Dolly Kohanyi thoughts about running a restaurant business and how she plans to continue to beat the odds for long-term success.

1. What inspired you to open up a restaurant?

Carinderia, in the Philippines means a popular style of eatery, usually food stalls with a small seating area. I was inspired by my aunt, Inso Panching who had a small Carinderia eatery beside our house and served our small barrios and mostly our shoemaker employees at that time when my mother owned a shoe shop in Marikina.

2. Describe your specialty? What makes your restaurant unique?

Halo-halo, and Filipino cooler drinks.

Our team is constantly trying to produce high-quality foods and our specialty is authentic home cooking, just like back home in the Philippines. Our menu is inspired by the memory of my childhood back home. We have stew dishes on steamed tables for Meal Plates just like Turo Turo, fast food Filipino version. We also have meals that are cooked to order from various selections on our menu boards like Silogs, Grilled Boxed meals, Rice Bowls, Noodle Bowls, Merienda,

3. Running a business is not easy, what would say has been your greatest challenge with running this type of operation?

With our team obsessed with high-quality food and good customer service, but the most challenging is the labour and food cost.

4. What would you say has been your greatest reward with owning your own restaurant?

• Seeing, Lolo and Lola and our Filipino kababayan excited to see our menu that remind them of food and tastes of food just like back home.

• Seeing other nationalities, who dare to taste test and love our Filipino cuisine instantly.

• Customers reviews on social media platforms and those who verbally tell us on the spot.

• Customers saying their thank you’s before leaving the restaurant.

• Customer giving us respect by cleaning up their dishes and tables after enjoying a meal.

• Seeing customers patiently waiting when many customers come all at once.

JULY 2019

LIFESTYLE

THE FAR WEST HERALD

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5. What have you been doing to beat the odds of the restaurant industry statistics? What is your long-term goal?

Our team focuses on providing consistent food quality, cleanliness of the restaurant, customer satisfaction, and sanitation. We also follow what the trends of the millennials like implementing online ordering systems for delivery like Ubereats, Foodora, Skip The Dishes, as well as our own Online ordering for pick up.

Our goal is to be well know in our Filipino community and so to appeal to to other diverse customers.

6. With more and more Filipino restaurants and outlets opening, are you concerned about competition?

No. Filipino cuisine is the 2nd most trending in the restaurant industry. We need more businesses to represent our Filipino cuisine and believe our community will support small restaurant businesses to grow.

Thousands of Raptors fans have packed the route of the parade celebrating the Toronto team’s NBA championship win.The basketball team clinched the title on Thursday, becoming the first NBA franchise outside the U.S. to win the Finals. (FWH photo)

7. What advice would you give to those who wish to start their own business or restaurant?

Be prepared for lots of hard work, dedication, and have a solid understanding in business operations.

For more information about Carinderia by DFlores, you can visit their website at: https://www.carinderia.ca/ Sources: [1] https://yourbusiness.azcentral.com/average-life-spanrestaurant-6024.html

TORONTO CELEBRATES “WE THE NORTH” DAY WITH A RAPTORS’ CHAMPIONSHIP PARADE

Construction workers watched the festivities from scaffolding along the route, and as traffic ground to a standstill on a nearby thoroughfare, some motorists left their vehicles to peer at the activity. (FWH photo)

Hours of anticipation gave way to unbridled euphoria as a sea of Raptors fans greeted the newly crowned NBA champions with cheers, whistles and chants on Monday, June 17.

Mayor John Tory declared Monday “We The North Day” in Toronto, after the NBA champions’ slogan.

The Raptors’ victory parade kicked off in Toronto on June 17, Monday, with thousands of fans turning out to celebrate the NBA champions. (FWH photo)

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THE FAR WEST HERALD

ARTS & CULTURE

The Garden at Ciudad de Victoria

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 1,000bed 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.

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.

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

JULY 2019

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, as conceptualized by INC Executive Minister Eduardo V. Manalo has transformed into a haven not only for tourists but for families, as well.

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.

Thru the supervision of INC General Auditor Glicerio Santos, Jr, development plans are underway that will help decongest traffic in EDSA. In a few years, Ciudad De Victoria is anticipated to become the new Bulacan Global City (BGC). Soon, it will be competing aesthetic, tourism, and economic progress with the development of the south, hence, to become a tourism mecca.

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