Filipino Journal Alberta Edition August 2013

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Volume 6, Number 8 • August 2013

Allan Santos Filipino-Canadian Aims to Become Ward 5 Councillor

Publications Mail Agreement 40032612

Karilagan Dance Society Receives Award for Second Best in Entertainment at Heritage Festival

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Quezonian Club of Edmonton Summer Picnic

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UP Alumni Association in Edmonton supports Filipino Global runner Cesar Guarin

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Is Cold War II in the offing?

PEREZCOPE

by Perry

Diaz

PerryDiaz@gmail.com

O

n December 25, 1991, President Mikhail Gorbachev of the Soviet Union resigned, declared his office “extinct,” and handed over the Soviet nuclear missile launching code to Russian President Boris Yeltsin. That same evening, the Soviet flag was lowered for the last time and the Russian tricolor was raised. The dissolution of the Soviet Union also marked the end of the Cold War. With the collapse of the Soviet Union, the United States became the only superpower on Earth. Earlier that year, the Gulf War ended and the victorious Americans went home in peace.

In the ensuing decade, the world experienced relative peace. It was Pax Americana all over again.

But all that changed on September 11, 2001, when terror struck America.

The decade that followed was one bloody period.

The U.S. invaded Afghanistan and overthrew the Taliban government and put in its place a democratically elected government. On March 20, 2003, the U.S. and her allies invaded Iraq to remove Saddam Hussein from power. The Iraq War is now over after almost nine years of warfare and the war in Afghanistan is winding down.

While the U.S. was preoccupied in Afghanistan and

Iraq, Russia was slowly – and quietly -- building her military forces. With the election of Vladimir Putin to a new six-year term as president – his third -- on March 4, 2012, the geopolitical game changed dramatically.

Unlike his predecessor, Dmitry Medvedev, Putin put in motion an aggressively assertive agenda.

He wants to restore Russia to the superpower she once was. He became more involved in Middle East politics.

Last June, Obama and Putin met on sidelines of the G8 meeting in Northern Ireland to discuss issues, particularly the Syrian problem. The Guardian reported: “Russia’s failure to respond positively to US claims of chemical weapons use in Syria and its hostile response to Obama's plan to give military support to rebel groups means the two leaders remain deeply divided.” And divided they are, not just on Syria but also on a slew of issues including cyber warfare. However, they agreed to put up a “cold war hotline” to deal with outbreaks of cyber attacks.

Enter Snowden On August 1, 2013, Russia granted whistleblower Edward Snowden temporary asylum of one year. He had been holed up at the Moscow Airport for several weeks waiting for a country to give him asylum.

Within a few days, Obama canceled his summit meeting with Putin in Moscow ahead of the G20 economic summit in St. Petersburg. The White House said that Russia’s decision to “defy the U.S. and grant Snowden temporary asylum only exacerbated an already troubled relationship.”

But it did not end there.

Obama immediately went on the

offensive. A few days ago, he appeared on the Jay Leno Tonight Show and said, “There have been times where they slip back into Cold War thinking and Cold War mentality. What I continually say to them and to President Putin is that’s the past.”

But who says that a new Cold War couldn’t happen in the future?

the number of strategic nuclear missile launchers will be reduced by half.

A new inspection and verification system will be established, replacing the SORT mechanism. It does not limit the number of operationally inactive stockpiled nuclear warheads, that remain in the high thousands in both the Russian and American inventories. (Source: Wikipedia)

Cold War mentality As a matter fact, during a White House press conference last August 9, Obama said: “I think there's always been some tension in the US-Russian relationship after the fall of the Soviet Union.”

He said that Putin’s return to the Russian presidency in May 2012 had cast a chill over thawing ties.

“There's been cooperation in some areas. There's been competition in others. It is true that in my first four years in working with President Medvedev, we made a lot of progress,” he said. “What's also true is, is that when President Putin... came back into power, I think we saw more rhetoric on the Russian side that was antiAmerican, that played into some of the old stereotypes about the Cold War.” (Source: “Putin’s Cold War stance chilling ties,” The Nation, August 10, 2013) The question that keeps popping up in my mind is: With a stockpile of 8,500 nuclear warheads, would Putin make a move to withdraw from the New START Treaty (for Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) that Medvedev and Obama signed on April 8, 2010 and which took effect on February 5, 2011?

Under the terms of the treaty,

Enter Xi Jinping When Xi Jinping ascended to China’s presidency in March 2013, his first trip outside China was to visit Putin. At their summit in Kremlin last March 22, they agreed to form a “strategic partnership” to advance their countries’ interests.

In my article, “New World Disorder” (March 26, 2013), I wrote: “At a joint press conference, Xi told the media: ‘China’s friendship with Russia guarantees strategic balance and peace in the world.” But what he presumably meant to say was that the new China-Russia military-economic alliance would be so formidable that it would establish a new world order never seen before. In Xi’s mind, only a China-Russia military-economic alliance could stop the United States’ ‘pivot to Asia’ strategy.

And one of Xi’s concerns was the United States’ building of an intercontinental ballistic missile defense system, which could tilt the balance of power towards the U.S.’ ” 2020 Timetable Last July 8-10, Russian and China conducted a joint naval exercise off the coast of

Karilagan Dance Society Receives Award for Second Best in Entertainment at Heritage Festival Once again the Philippine Pavillion Entertainment headed

by President Memen Cochingco of Karilagan Dance Society garnered the second best in entertainment by the Heritage Day Festival Committee. The Karilagan Dance Society a multi awarded international dance organization staged a top class performances depicting and

showcasing Philippine dances in different eras and regions. The Servus Heritage Festival is one of the major festivals in Edmonton held in the month of August.

Philippines is one of over 60 countries that participates in this three day long festival depicting food, entertainment and crafts of different cultures.

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Vladivostok. It was the largest between the two countries.

American strategists view it as an attempt to counter the U.S.’s “pivot to Asia,” which would shift 60% of America’s air and naval forces to Asia-Pacific by 2020.

In anticipation of China becoming a rival naval power in Western Pacific waters by 2020 (“China raises the ante,” July 31, 2013), the Pentagon has put in place a strategy known as Air-Sea Battle. The goal is “to neutralize the ability of enemies to keep U.S. forces at bay with so-called AntiAccess and Area-Denial (A2/AD) defenses.”

According to the Air-Sea Battle plan, US forces would launch physical attacks and cyberattacks against the enemy’s “kill-chain” of sensors and weaponry in order to disrupt its command-and-control systems, wreck its launch platforms (including aircraft, ships, and missile sites), and finally defeat the weapons they actually fire.

The sooner the kill-chain is broken, the less damage US forces will suffer - and the more damage they will be able to inflict on the enemy. (Source: “How Pentagon strategy could trigger war with China,” ForeignPolicy. com, August 2, 2013) Many experts believe that the U.S. and China are headed to an armed confrontation – or war -- by 2020. With a China-Russia military-economic alliance in the works, it won’t be long before they’d become belligerent toward America, which makes one wonder if Cold War II is in the offing?

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Business Eclectic

by Terry Robert B.A., C.M.A., C.G.A. terry@robertaccounting.ca

T

his time I am continuing with my discussion of different types of business organizations. I will discuss the most common arrangements, the unincorporated business, whether a proprietorship or partnership.

Proprietorships are unincorporated businesses with one owner or proprietor.

Partnerships are unincorporated businesses with more than one owner. They can include previously discussed organizations, including direct marketing, but usually are small businesses including sales persons on commission (real estate, insurance, agency), retailers, farmers, side jobs, craft sales, etc.

Generally, it is any business where the income does not provide the owner(s) with more than enough to provide for living expenses.

In many small businesses record keeping may be limited; sometimesrelying on a profit and loss statement prepared once a year from invoices (sales and

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expenditures) and other records, such as calculated interest on loans and calculated depreciation and prepared solely for the purpose of filing income tax returns. Other small unincorporated businesses may be quite sophisticated in their record keeping, using a small business program like Sage Simply or Quick Books, getting regular financial statements (monthly or quarterly). In some cases the record keeping is kept by a family member and sometimes by an independently engaged bookkeeper.

An anecdotal observation is that those who keep good records are the most likely to successfully grow into larger companies. Growth is not the concern of all business owners, but proper record keeping can help to operate most businesses more efficiently and profitably.

Analyses of comparisons, margins, receivables, payables, revenue and expenses have proven benefits for business owners. One of my objectives in setting up my practice thirty years ago was to work with small businesses and provide services that were not normally available to the small business owner.

During that time, the business environment has changed considerably and sophisticated programs are available to assist the owner in keeping records, making professional guidance significantly more accessible.

For the small business owner(s) who has no ambition to grow, record keeping is still an issue. Inaccuracies and errors in record keeping can lead to problems with financing and the Canada Revenue Agency.

Small businesses continue to face problems of fewer resources, despite more available technologies.

Being smaller, there isn’t as much information to process, but constant awareness of many aspects of the business is very demanding. For example, are receivables getting out of hand while you are trying to increase sales? Or is your image suffering by not looking after good customers while you are trying to service a customer who will not be satisfied?

A final note is that if you are starting a new business and expect a year or so of losses, those losses in an unincorporated business can be deducted against other personal income. As well, if your income is lower in the first years, your personal deductions can protect you from higher taxes. I have seen so many people make the wrong decisions based on advice from friends. My recommendation in every case is to seek professional advicefrom knowledgeable professionals so you can make the best decisions possible at any point in time.

Running a small business you have to be manager, promoter, financier, clerk, typist, caretaker, etc. It is a very difficult role to fulfill and not one that everyone can do. In fact, there are lots of failures as many people go into business totally unprepared.Any business you chose should be something you enjoy doing and then you should make sure you are prepared for all that will be required. One of the biggest mistakes is assuming running your own business is easy and will make you lots of money.

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But, and a very big but, a small unincorporated business can be very satisfying. It is yours and all the extra time, perhaps at less of an income than you would be paid elsewhere, can be very rewarding.

Terry Robert B.A., C.M.A., C.G.A. Robert Accounting LLP Certified General Accountants accountants.mb.ca

August 2013 Please note that this column deals with details and circumstances in a general way and comments are meant solely as a guide. For your protection, a professional accountant is recommended and should be consulted before making any decisions regarding anything discussed in this column.

Youth Employment Centre returning home after flood Filed by Jose “Pepito” Magpayo

On August 20,The City of Calgary’s Youth Employment Centre (YEC) is set to return to the newly re-opened Alberta Trade Centre.

“Summer is a busy season for youth employment and we wanted to ensure we were still there to provide free career planning and job search assistance,” said Lisa Duke, community relations liaison.

“Despite the change in location, we had one of our busiest summers helping Calgary’s youth.

The support from the community, and everyone’s patience with our move, has been tremendous. It’s truly a great example of the spirit of Calgary and our ability to deal with challenges together.”

The YEC was displaced from the Alberta Trade Centre as a result of the June flood and had set up a temporary location at the University of Calgary Downtown Campus to continue assisting

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Calgary’s youth with their career and employment needs.

Repairs were completed ahead of schedule and the YEC is returning to the Alberta Trade Centre on August 20.

“While it’s been great working at our temporary location, everyone is looking forward to getting back to normal and returning to the Alberta Trade Centre,” said Duke.

The YEC is located on the second floor of the Alberta Trade Centre, 315 10 Avenue S.E. and is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily, Monday to Friday. For more information on the YEC and the services it provides visit www. nextsteps.org or call 311.

YEC is run by Community & Neighbourhood Services, and is funded by The City of Calgary, The Government of Alberta and Family & Community Support Services.

August 2013

The City of Calgary releases election mobile app YYC Vote for 2013 Election Filed by Jose “Pepito” Magpayo

The City of Calgary launched the 2013 Election Day mobile app, YYC Vote, supported on android, blackberry and iphone platforms.

The app is free to download and available on iTunes, Google Play stores, and coming soon to Blackberry 10.

The 2013 Election app is more robust than the previous 2010 version. It features a dynamic countdown clock to Election Day, October 21, and an integrated twitter function that allows you to tweet within the app from your twitter account with the #yycvote. The twitter function displays the latest tweets from users with #yycvote and allows you to connect with your community and keep up to date with everything YYC Vote related.

The app features a rolling

menu for easy navigation. You can find out if you are an eligible elector, where and how you can vote on Election Day, or during the Advance Vote. Information is also available for first time voters, incapacitated electors, authorized voting identification, and how to request a Mail-in (Special) Ballot.

Returning Officer, Barb Clifford says, “YYC Vote keeps you connected to the 2013 local Election while you’re on the go. The app allows you to view the latest election news, videos, updates, tweets and enables you to share them on twitter within the app with the hashtag #yycvote.”

Election Day is Monday, October 21, 2013. For more information please visitCalgary. ca/election or download the mobile app to your device by visitingCalgary.ca/mobileapps.

City Recruiting Election Workers for October 21 General Election

Register now for fall recreation programs Filed by Jose “Pepito” Magpayo

Think active. Think creative.

Think fun. The City’s Fall Recreation Program Guide is on stands now. Registration starts today. Register online at calgary. ca or by calling 403-268-3800.

Dozens of new programs offered this fall. From September to December, try one of our new programs like how to “Create your own Indoor Garden”, “Yoga – Y.E.S” or “Conditioning for Dance”. Recreation can keep you energized all year; build your fitness level in a kickboxing class, discover your sense of rhythm in a belly dance lesson or grab some pool time at one of leisure centres.

“With the kids heading back to school parents will be searching for some ‘me’ time soon.” said Michelle Tait, Recreation Supervisor. “We have more than ten different styles and themes of Yoga parents can choose from; “Gentle Yoga”, “Yoga for a Healthy Back”, “Yoga & Mediation.” Recreation has the A

(abs) to Z (zen) covered.

In addition, there are several fun and festive holiday programs to keeping your family busy over the holiday break; you can register your little tike in “Santa’s Art Workshop” or head out to one of our twelve arenas to enjoy a public skate.

Come participate, there’s more than you think with The City of Calgary Recreation.

The City of Calgary Recreation operates 12 arenas, 2 art centres, 12 athletic parks, 8 golf courses, 2 leisure centres, 12 indoor pools, and a sailing school.

We offer affordable recreation products and services, facilitate city festivals and events, invest in quality recreation amenities and public art, and partner with organizations to enhance sport, art, and culture within Calgary.

The scope of our work directly contributes to our mission: Enriching the lives of Calgarians through recreation.

Filed by Jose “Pepito” Magpayo

Interested in participating in the Election but not quite ready to run as a Candidate? You can still get involved, say officials, as The City of Calgary announced it is looking for people interested in working as Deputy Returning Officers (DRO) this fall on Election Day, October 21, 2013.

“We are looking for individuals who are passionate about community and interested in experiencing the inner workings of a local election,” said Barb Clifford, The City’s Returning Officer. “Election day is an important day for Calgarians as they choose the future stewards of our city. We need a lot of people to help ensure we process voting in a timely and efficient manner.”

The 2013 General Election will see eligible Calgarians have their say on who fills the office of Mayor, Councillor (Alderman), Public School Trustee and Separate School Trustee for the city of Calgary.

The City is looking to fill approximately 3,000 positions on Election Day. All positions are paid positions. Most workers will be assigned to the 163 voting stations and special voting stations located in communities in and around Calgary. A number of stand-by workers are also hired to ensure all positions are filled should a cancellation occur.

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Individuals can apply to work as DRO’s on Election Day if: • They are at least 18 years old; • Available to attend a 1 – 2 hour daytime training session in September/October; and • Available to work extended hours on Election Day (October 21).

Anyone who meets these qualifications and would like to be a part of the election team is asked to download and fill out an application at Calgary. ca/election; or complete an application at the Election and Information Services Office on Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. to 4 –p.m. Applications must be brought or completed in person at the Elections Office.

As well, applicants will also be required to take a short skills test.

Applications are open now and will be accepted until September 16, 2013.

Elections and Information Services Office is located at 1103 – 55 Avenue N.E. Deputy Returning Officers and stand-by positions are filled as applications are received. For more information call 403-476-4100 (Option 2).

The Due to the expected volume of applications, only successful applicants will be contacted. For more information interested applicants can visit Calgary.ca/election.

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by Jairus Bilo

all lines all the time pasting another coolie down a foreign tongue forget what Cyndil's doing under sub-stressing graduating to make dinner the way through objects memorialize subsections fancy another elephant believe i'm crossing the substrate polarize for the sake of balance and believe me it gets easier to manage we coma fiends preening something in futile water lily stage bayonetting as a requisite our pleasantry universal domes

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The little perks of being an OFW everything about our culture. It’s so heart warming! Our parents and teachers should be proud that anywhere we go in the world, we carry the values they instilled in us from grade school.

by Erlinda

Dolly Tan

erlindatan@yahoo.com

The writer is an engineer by profession.

She was the Editor-in-Chief during her university days and has not stopped writing since. She has four gold fish and one betta. She delights in watching movies the traditional way by sitting at the theatre with popcorn rather than at home. She loves books and is right now reading Dan Brown’s Inferno.

As per Wikipedia, it is estimated that about 11 million Filipinos live abroad or 11% of our population.

That’s a lot! We can create our own country, population-wise we are twice the size of Singapore or half the size of Australia. No wonder we are regarded as the backbone of our economy. Our remittances, which make up 13% of our Gross Domestic Product, is enough to sustain a country.

About 670,000 of these Filipinos live in Canada. And growing every year.

About 110,000 are adopted Albertans.

That includes you and me. Some of us are immigrants, some are temporary foreign workers, back home we are called OFWs (Overseas Filipino Workers).

I can write many things about being an OFW: the ordeals we go through in a foreign country, how distance affects marriage and relationships, how we feel about our government, and the list goes on. But at the moment, I want to write something light. I’m a fan of “feel good” movies. So here goes.

The little perks of being an OFW: 1. Every time you get on into a full packed bus, you always see Filipino passengers inside. If you are a lady or an elderly, somebody will immediately offer a seat.

“Dito na po kayo.” This line says

2. Buy coffee at McDonald’s or Tim Hortons, you will always meet an OFW. These places are obviously run by Filipinos.

Sometimes, you get an upsize for free. Sometimes, you hear Gary Valenciano or Eraserheads music being played in the background.

3. One time I bought a picture frame at the mall.

It was scratched. I went to a till manned by an OFW. I asked if I could get more discount. She phoned the manager. Request granted!

I got a discount for an alreadydiscounted item.

4. You dial a 1-800-number to complain or to request for some changes made on your account, big chance you will talk to a Filipino. Some of them are Call Center agents working back home. It’s nice to talk in Tagalog when you least expect it. You are able to convey the message clear and your requests are all granted.

s_Park aims to ignite community spirit in public spaces

to work as caregivers. It was a nice feeling to sit in that plane for the remainder of the flight to Manila, knowing that if I get sick, someone will take care of me.

7. You are never alone at Christmas time. Go to any Filipino house, there is food, party and karaoke.

We can’t deny party is part of our culture. And OFWs brought that trademark abroad. Did I mention dancing too?

8. In Canada, Tagalog is the fastest-growing immigrant language. And you can feel it!

Sit inside the bus and you hear a conversation in Tagalog. Go to the mall, the couple walking in front of you and behind you are talking in Tagalog. In fact, at Western Union outlets, there are already flyers in Tagalog.

Someday, Tagalog will become the other language in the “bilingual skill” referred to.

9. If you are homesick, go to church on Sunday, you will meet hundreds of Filipinos.

Needless to say, this is also part of our culture. We may belong to different religious denominations but generally we are a church-goer flock and mind you, people notice.

5. You fly home for a vacation I have been asked countless times at any time of the year, you will by strangers if I was on my way to always meet two or three OFWs church on a Sunday. at the airport. When you are alone, seeing another Filipino 10. The “bayanihan spirit” is very gives you a feeling of relief. And alive abroad. Where I live, we immediately you bond together take care of each other. We have like you have been friends for a strong and tight-knit Filipino years, when in truth you have community. This was proven and tested during the tragic car only met at the airport. accident in March 2012 where 6. One time I went home, I flew four OFWs died. We gathered, Philippine Airlines. Up in the we prayed, we mourned and we air half-way to Manila from gave financial support even if we Vancouver while everyone was didn’t know the victims.

I know I shouldn’t have sleeping, an announcement was made: “If there is a nurse or doctor called the above list “little perks.” aboard, we need your help with They are actually blessings in a passenger who is sick. Please disguise sent from somewhere come to the front.” Immediately, over the rainbow. Some days, I saw five passengers approached they could mean the world to you. the front. I was reminded that Just when you think it’s time to our nurses are all over the world, give up, you realize life is worth some of them are even willing moving on after all.

Ronald Cantiveros

Publisher/Chief Operating Officer VP-Business Development Managing Editor

Rod Escobar Cantiveros Sales & Advertising

Jose (Jun) Angeles, Jr.

Associate Publisher - Alberta 246 Lindsay St. Edmonton, AB T64 2T2 email: angeles.associates@gmail.com

Jose “Pepito” Magpayo Associate Editor/Marketing afjcalgary@shaw.ca (403) 264-5605

Rosalinda Linsangan Natividad-Cantiveros

Founder, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief- Filipino Journal 1987-2008

August 2013

Filed by Jose “Pepito” Magpayo

Starting today, a new pilot project to establish a temporary street park (s-PARK) on 10 Street S.W. is beginning. The s-PARK will be situated in the Downtown West community on 10 Street S.W. between 6 and 7 Avenues until Aug. 25, 2013. A s-PARK is designed to establish a passive park space during the week and a place where Calgarians can join in a celebration of community with a variety of events on weekends.

“We’re excited to pilot this new program in Downtown West.

Creating a new street park is a fun experience that really reinvents the street environment. It enhances community and pedestrian spaces encouraging both passive and animated activities while also creating a new sense of place in the community,” said Dawn Thome, project manager, Centre City Implementation.

To accommodate the pilot program, there will be a road closure on 10th Street S.W. at the south end of the block from August 9th to 25th On weekends, the north end of the block will also be closed to allow for recreational programming and community activities to animate the streetscape.

During the week, on-street parking will still be available on the

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west side of the street at the north end of the block. The alleyways off of 9th, 10th & 11th Streets will remain open during the duration of the project making the underground residential parking lots and the public surface lots still accessible between 10th & 11th Street S.W. On weekends, access will be from 9th & 11th Streets only.

Full details about this project can be found on the s-PARK information sheet.

The s-PARK pilot project will be evaluated in the fall of 2013 and a decision will be made as to whether this program will be established on a on a city wide basis.

About Centre City Planning & Implementation In 2007, Calgary’s City Council approved The Centre City Plan, a comprehensive and strategic long-term vision for the future of our Centre City. Since then, The City and its many partners have made a significant investment to implement the Plan and achieve its vision of a livable, thriving and caring core.

For more information, please visit calgary.ca/centrecity Onward/ A vibrant city depends on a vibrant centre.

Published Quarterly

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Webco Leduc

A Division of Bowes Publishers Ltd. Leduc, AB Printer Noli Granado Christopher & Nikki Richter

We welcome submissions-news, articles, pictures and letters. Letters must include signature and phone number; names can be withheld upon request. We reserve the right to edit for length and content. All submissions, unless arrangements are made, become the property of the publisher. Reproduction of contents, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited without the expressed written permission from the Publisher/ Editor. Opinions by columnist, writers, and readers do not in any way reflect those of the Publisher/Editor.

Contributing Writers:

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Official Photographer

Johnny Cantiveros Carl Benito Perry Diaz Jon Salvador Perry Diaz

Melanie Angeles Gem M. Anis Danilo Donor Lito Mendoza Velasco Dolly Punsalan Castillo

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Quezonian Club of Edmonton Summer Picnic The Quezonian Club of Edmonton once again frolic in summer with a picnic at Rundle Recreation Park Satrurday August 3, 2013. Local Quezonian dishes were served which include guinatang gabi, pinagat, at daing. One of the surprise guests was Karen Leibovici, candidate for Mayor in Edmonton.

L-R Guest, Bella Cruz, Louie Dolores, Josie Banta, Hermie Angeles & Sarah Fullido

Quezonian with Karen Leibovici

Group picture

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L-R Dante Banta, Jun Angeles, Jeoffrey Fullido and Jimmy Villamayor

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August 2013

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The Filipino Journal is published twice a month in Winnipeg. We are committed to help you attain your marketing, sales, and company objectives. Your company advertisement in our newspaper will surely appeal to 50,000 Filipino’s and Canadian readers. Advertisers can expect to get their message to its readers and consumers in this area. People read the Filipino Journal because of its very informative news, entertainment sections and useful everyday information on living in Canada.

Filipino Journal is the no.1 Filipino-Canadian Newspaper in Alberta that published 10,000 copies once a month. We are the largest and fastest growing Filipino-Canadian newspaper, with 70,000 Filipino’s and Canadian readers.

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Filipino Journal SOCIAL MEDIA SERVICES

Social media marketing brings your company to the fastest growing networking hubs on the Internet.

We can help you reach out to, collaborate with, and market effectively to targeted audiences in their on-line haunts.

Social Media Marketing services include: Social Media Strategy - finding your potential clients on-line and figuring out how to reach them.

Corporate Facebook Pages – building and managing effective Facebook presences; Twitter Services – using Twitter the right way.

Our social media marketing services can: * * * * * * *

increase brand awareness; create buzz; promote and advertise products and services; generate sales; establish expertise; drive more web site traffic showcase and demonstrate product effectiveness.

Facebook, MySpace, Flickr and YouTube get millions of visitors daily. Tap into this vital social phenomenon and reach a vast new audience, contact the Filipino Journal today to find out how.

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Ron Cantiveros (204) 489-8894 ron@FilipinoJournal.com

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August 2013

New FSW Immigration Program & the 24 Eligible Jobs 100, however, the weightings of several selection criteria were changed, a formal Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) was introduced, an approved LMO is now required on Arranged Employment offers and adaptability factors to gain additional points were modified.

Immigration News

by Columbio (Jon) Salvador, BSc.

Certified Canadian Immigration Consultant

(About the writer: Jon Salvador is a licensed immigration consultant and a member in good standing with the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC). He has more than 20 years of management and business experience in Canada. Prior to establishing his immigration consulting company, he worked for a U.S. based computer company and then at TELUS, the 2nd largest telecom company in Canada in various management positions.

He is originally from Manila, Philippines and graduated from DLSU (De La Salle University) in Manila with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. He also studied Business Management at the University of Alberta in Edmonton. If you would like to request articles on other immigration topics for future “Alberta Filipino Journal” publications, you can contact Jon at (403) 241-6276 or at jon@nuerainc.ca or the publisher of this newspaper.

At last, after it was suspended July 2012 last year, the new Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) was re-launched effective May 4, 2013. There were many changes made based on extensive government research and study of the best practices of other countries like Australia, New Zealand, the U.S. and others, and consultations with stakeholders and the public. The primary objective of the changes made was to improve the program and select applicants based on their ability to succeed economically in Canada. The pass mark remained the same at 67 points out of

Applicants should ensure they meet at least one of the following FSW requirements: 1. They have at least one year of continuous work experience in one of the 24 eligible skilled occupations; 2. They have an offer of arranged employment for skilled work with an approved LMO 3. They are eligible to apply through the PhD stream.

If the prospective applicants are confident that they meet at least one of the above requirements, they must also meet the minimum language threshold and obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (if submitting a foreign educational credential).

6. 2134 - Chemical Engineers 7. 2143 - Mining Engineers 8. 2144 - Geological Engineers 9. 2145 - Petroleum Engineers 10. 2146 - Aerospace Engineers 11. 2147 - Computer Engineers (except software engineers/ designers) 12. 2154 - Land Surveyors 13. 2174 - Computer Programmers and interactive media developers 14. 2243 - Industrial Instrument technicians and mechanics 15. 2263 - Inspectors in public and environmental health and occupational health and safety 16. 3141 - Audiologists and Speech-language Pathologists 17. 3142 - Physiotherapists 18. 3143 - Occupational Therapists 19. 3211 - Medical Laboratory Technologists 20. 3212 - Medical Laboratory Technicians and Pathologists' Assistants 21. 3214 - Respiratory Therapists, Clinical Perfusionists and Cardiopulmonary Technologists 22. 3215 - Medical Radiation Technologists 23. 3216 - Medical Sonographers 24. 3217 - Cardiology Technicians and Electrophysiological Diagnostic Technologists

List of 24 Eligible Occupations and FSW program application caps/limits for year 1 The eligible occupations stream will have an overall cap/limit of 5,000 new applications and subcaps of 300 applications in each of the 24 occupations on the list New FSW Program - Minimum Language Threshold below.

All prospective applicants to the FSW program should first Eligible occupations with determine whether they meet their National Occupation the new minimum language Classification (NOC) code: threshold: Canadian Language 1. 0211 - Engineering Managers Benchmark CLB 7 or Niveaux 2. 1112 - Financial and de Compétence Linguistique Investment analysts Canadiens NCLC 7 in all four 3. 2113 - Geoscientists and skills (listening, speaking, Oceanographers reading, and writing). To prove 4. 2131 - Civil Engineers English language proficiency, 5. 2132 - Mechanical Engineers

Starting May 4, 2013 the FSW program selection criteria has been changed as follows:

a prospective applicant must take either IELTS or CELPIP – General Training Exams and submit their exams results along with their PR application to the Canadian government (CIC).

Language test results are valid for two years from the date that they were issued by the designated organizations.

NOTE: Third-party language tests are scored differently by each of the organizations. Here are the scores on each of the tests that correspond to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB 7) or higher: Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (known as CELPIP) An FSW applicant must score at least 4L on the CELPIP-General test in each of the four skills to meet the minimum language threshold.

A score of 4L on the CELPIPGeneral test corresponds to CLB 7. A score of 4H corresponds to CLB 8, and a score of 5 or higher corresponds to CLB 9 or higher.

International English Language Testing System (known as IELTS) An FSW applicant must score at least 6.0 on the IELTS General Training test in each of the four skills to meet the min. language threshold of CLB 7. Scores higher than 6.0 will get more points.

New FSW Program - Arranged Employment Offer for Skilled Work in Canada Previously, employers have applied for an Arranged Employment Opinion (AEO) from Human Resources Skills Development Canada when they wished to hire a foreign national on a permanent, full-time basis and support their employee’s application for permanent residence through the FSW program.

Starting on May 4, 2013, CIC will no longer accept AEOs in support of an FSW application. Instead, offers of arranged employment will require an approved Labour Market Opinion (LMO).

Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) Another important change that took effect on May 4, 2013, is the introduction of the Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).

Prospective applicants should start the process of getting an ECA, if they are planning to submit a foreign educational credential. However, applicants should keep in mind the other program eligibility requirements listed above, i.e. whether they have a qualifying offer of arranged employment or are applying under the PhD stream or eligible occupations stream; and if they meet the minimum language threshold through a designated third-party test.

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Applicants who have Canadian educational credentials do not need to get an ECA, unless they are also submitting a foreign educational credential in support of their application.

The ECA process will help determine if the foreign educational credential is authentic and equivalent to a completed credential in Canada.

For prospective applicants, the ECA can provide a realistic understanding of how their foreign educational credentials are likely to be recognized in Canada. It does not guarantee work but will facilitate recognition of educational credentials by Canadian employers.

As of April 17, 2013, four organizations have been designated by the Minister to provide ECA reports for purposes of immigrating to Canada under the FSW program. Additional organizations may be designated

by CIC in the future. The designated organizations are: 1. Comparative Education Service: University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies; 2. International Credential Assessment Service of Canada; 3. World Education Services; and, 4. Medical Council of Canada.

The Medical Council of Canada has been designated only for those principal applicants who intend to apply with Specialist Physician (NOC: 3111) or General Practitioner/Family Physician (NOC: 3112) as their primary occupation in their FSW application. Neither NOC code 3111 nor 3112 is on the eligible occupations list that takes effect on May 4, 2013 … so this will only affect those applicants applying under the PhD stream or with a qualifying Arranged Employment (AE) job offer based on those NOC codes.

Applicants should contact the designated organizations directly for further information on their documentation requirements, processing times and fees.

CIC will only accept ECA reports issued after the date the organization was designated by CIC to provide ECA reports for immigration purposes (i.e. April 17, 2013). An ECA report will be valid for immigration purposes for 5 years from the date that it was issued by the designated organization.

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

August 2013

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

LBC Mundial Cargo hosted Meet & Greet in Calgary LBC Mundial Cargo hosted a get together - meet and greet dinner in Calgary. The event was attended by some of the Filipino leaders in Calgary. photo shows: from left Jun Buera (Philippine Consulate General in Calgary), Cecille Magpayo (Executive Producer of TV PILIPINO), Jose "Pepito" Magpayo (Editor-Alberta Filipino Journal), Atty. Ferdie Aguirre (Souther Alberta Consul General, a.h.), Raffy Policarpio (LBC International Country Manager in Canada), Joven Bautista (CAFFA President). Guests were served the Zen 8 Grill Teppanyaki special inside the Cowboys Casino.

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Allan Santos Filipino-Canadian Aims to Become Ward 5 Councillor

by Jun Angeles

W

ith the local election coming up in October, one of the candidates with Filipino heritage is Allan Santos, son of Fely and Art Santos Filipino-Canadians. He was born in the Philippines and raised in Edmonton and at the young age of 41 he would like to enter the local politics to run as a Councillor representing Ward 5 of Edmonton.

"I love Edmonton. I am proud to call myself an Edmontonian and think this is a great city to live & work in. I have a desire to be a part of making Edmonton

elementary, Jr High and High an even greater city - and hope School together. We both stayed that would be a legacy for my in West Edmonton, each buying children and they too will raise homes & raising our families their families here. With my experience working in the private sector, with the Government of Alberta and most recently with the City of Edmonton I believe I would be the best candidate to represent Ward 5, the Ward that Karen Leibovici has faithfully and responsibly lead for the last 12 years.

A very close friend of mine passed away a few months ago, he was 40 years old. We grew up in West Edmonton, went through

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here. We'd often talk about the Allan is married to Susan needs of our city as well as how and they were blessed with three we could make it better! I want to children Seth, Isabella and Silas. try and make it better!"

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August 2013

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Blessings of UMAC New Office & Warehouse Congratulations to UMAC Express Cargo on the blessing of their new office and warehouse at 9308 - 60 Ave. Edmonton, Alberta last Friday August 16, 2013. A company with history and track record of service to the Filipino community in Canada. Good luck in your expansion in Edmonton.

Fr. Al blessing the entrance of the office

L-R Rev. Fr. Alfred Francis, Bess Ines, Homer Lising, Nina Mamaril and Larry Baguisa

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August 2013

UMAC Singing Contest July Winner Congratulations to Dione Dadivas, Jr. winner for July UMAC Singing Contest. Dione will compete as one of the finalists in September 2013.

Dione Dadivas receiving a check for $150.00 from UMAC manager Nina Mamaril.

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Judges of UMAC Singing Contest L-R Francis Sinday, Jenny Gose, Eden Codizal & Jun Angeles.

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UP Alumni Association in Edmonton supports Filipino Global runner Cesar Guarin

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Filipino on a quest to circumnavigate the world on foot is coming to Edmonton on October 26 and 27, 2013. This is CESAR GUARIN, the “Father of Ultra marathon” in the Philippines. He has set out to create and conquer a challenge that some might never have thought humanly possible – to run a 42,000-kilometer distance around the world! Upon completion, he will be the first Filipino and first Asian to run the world on foot. Only four other people in the world have achieved this feat.

This October, he will be in Edmonton as part of this global run dedicated to his fellow kababayans, especially to the Overseas Foreign Workers (OFWs) and Filipino migrants scattered around the world.

Cesar equates the hardships, challenges, and triumphs in this gruelling run to the hardships and triumphs of Filipinos abroad.

This is what motivates him to meet with Filipino communities in every city or town he will pass by. This is also what inspires his motto: Para sa Pilipino, tatakbuhin ko ang buong mundo.

The UP Alumni Association Edmonton (UPAAE) is the local contact in Edmonton since Cesar Guarin is a UP Alumni and this endeavor aligns with UPAAE objectives to promote the Philippines and uphold the Filipino image. But this occasion is for the whole Filipino community to welcome and support a fellow Filipino who is putting the Philippines on the sports world map.

We are inviting all Filipinos and Filipino groups in Edmonton to join UPAAE in this event to show support for Cesar Guarin – to celebrate his achievements and be a part of this incredible journey that highlights the best of Filipino power, persistence, and determination. Cesar will also be in Calgary on November 2-3, 2013 and in Vancouver on November 9-10, 2013. For more information on Cesar Guarin and the Global Run, go to: http://www.cesarguarin.org Global Run Schedule of Events in Edmonton Sunday, October 27, 2013 1:00 – 3:00PM 2.5KM Family Fun Run – Hawrelak Park 3:00 – 5:00PM Welcome Reception and Inspirational Talk and Slide Show by Cesar Guarin For more information, please contact upaa.edmonton@gmail.com / Mila Bongco at 780-637-4384 / http://upaaedmonton.wordpress. com or follow us on Twitter at @ upaaedmonton.

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UPAA Edmonton Members at the 2013 Edmonton Heritage Festival.

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August 2013

Horoscope The key to working with the romantic forces in your chart at the moment is confidence, believing in love, in yourself and the expectations that have taken hold. You are advised not to overreact to the difficulties you may be experiencing in your social activities. You should pay more attention to the words you use in public.

Take advantage of all opportunities to socialize with the people you have professional ties with the outcome is likely to be quite positive. If you’re feeling isolated or alone, generating inner feelings of bitterness or frustration will not help your cause. There will be an additional flow of physical and mental energy.

You would set targets and work hard in order to achieve them. Avoid arriving at conclusions without analyzing the facts. A possessive attitude needs to be checked for ensuring smoothness in relationship. Try to cut down on travels and take proper care of health.

You are likely to be given the leadership of a local association.

Partners should mutually cooperate to ensure harmony in relationship. Take out time for exercise to avoid pain in neck or shoulder. Pay attention to your health.

Instead of worrying about why you can’t find satisfaction, take a chance by showing others how much you care. You feel the desire to make several minor, but significant, adjustments in your work.

You will be able to finish projects on time and your efforts will be recognized. The time is ideal to start saving money.

You will not face any major health troubles. You must act upon these impulses or the person you wish to develop a relationship with may assume your aloof attitude is a form of dismissal.

Don’t be dependent on your friends and relatives for support.

Be confident of your skills and try to be independent in your activities. Be careful towards health and follow proper diet.

You will have to keep patience in professional life and wait for better results.

You are likely to travel extensively especially for spiritual work. Enjoy the time with your partner. You would prove yourself and carry out tasks in a better manner. No major health worries. If planning for investment, medium level investment would be ideal.

Support from friends would make you happy. Improved communication skills will be of help. Eat well and take out time for relaxation. A proper overall checkup would be advisable. Be confident while handling new ventures and the result will be in your favor.

Take advice or suggestions from experts before arriving at important decisions. Support and care from your partner would bring in positive results. You need to protect yourself against variations in blood pressure and improper food habits.

Be patient while dealing with your work. Health ailments like teeth problems, stomach ache and eye ailments are likely.

Adjustments would assume more importance as mutual support between partners might not be there. In general, it is a moderate period concerning love or marital relationship.

This is a time when new information tends to come to light which makes it clear that a change in plans or outlook is needed to preserve your security. Courage and determination to move forward will bring you great rewards. Good health will keep you high spirits.

PAHALANG 1 Kaha 6 Malikot 11 Pinturang makintab 12 Maliit na usa 13 Bigyang-pansin 14 Yugyog 15 Walang mga magulang 16 Patigas sa damit 17 Kapitan, daglat 18 Gulay 19 Muling tingnang mabuti: 2 salita

PABABA 25 Office of Legal Aid 26 Lanao del _____ 27 Ihibik 30 Lagay ng panahon 32 Antala 33 Mauna 34 Bansa sa Asya 35 Tiktik 36 Irita 37 Reserbahan

1 Wig 2 Pulot-Pukyutan 3 Kalahi 4 Palayaw ng lalaki 5 Paksa 6 Pangalang biblikal 7 Inimpok 8 Higit 9 High-five, tagalog 10 Uri ng itlog 16 Kawawa 18 Liglig 20 Halal

21 Damay 22 Litisin 23 Lumabas ng piitan 24 Simangutan 27 Simoy 28 Inaral 29 Nakakalasing 30 Ginagawa sa baril 31 _____ Tiangco, newscaster

Volunteer Photographers Wanted Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer & Fort McMurray Volunteer photographers needed. Build your portfolio or use your expertise to aid the Filipino Journal by photographing special events and concerts. Must have own equipment and transportation. Photo editing skills would be helpful but not required.

Sudoku Puzzles are games of patience, numbers and genius! The satisfaction of solving a challenging Sudoku Puzzle is one of the greatest accomplishments any sudoku game player can experience.

Here is the puzzle. Good luck!

The Filipino communities are growing in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer & Fort McMurray. More & more events being passed along our way, we are looking to complement our team with volunteer photographers to cover all those events.

As with any community newspaper, we focus on local events such as community gatherings, picnics, sporting events, press conferences, dinners. Some gigs can be as quick as 15-20 minutes and other can be long, painful & boring. Our goal is to find photographers that we can assign work to on any given story. The majority of the events are during the evenings and weekend.

As far as compensation is concerned, we’re offering several options and considerations: 1. promotional compensation with photo credits on all photography used in our print and online editions.

3. advertising compensation with supporting photography services ad in our print edition.

4. royalties on any photographs sold through our website (in development).

Interested photographers can submit their name and portfolio to info@FilipinoJournal.com

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Solutions for Palaisipan & Sudoku will be posted online www.FilipinoJournal.com

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August 2013

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

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2013 Nissan Pathfinder: Remembering My First Ride

My Ride

by Ron

Cantiveros

ron@filipinojournal.com

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very five to six weeks, I get an email announcing which media vehicles are coming to Winnipeg and in the last round, I extremely excited that the Nissan Pathfinder finally made it to Winnipeg. It was like Christmas in June and I was scheduled to road test the 2013 Nissan Pathfinder in the middle of July.

Part of the excitement was the fact that my first car was a 1988 Nissan Pathfinder XE V6 dual-tone red-grey paint job and the rear spare tire. I easily recall that the rear spare tire mount being the coolest thing on the vehicle. It added to the ruggedness during the early concepts of sports utility

vehicles. Plus, it complemented my student life as a pimple faced twenty-something university student.

From time-to-time, I still see my old Pathfinder on the streets of Winnipeg and remember fondly the numerous camping trips and off-road adventures. So many good memories, and a couple stories that my friends and family still remind me of.

A lot has changed with the Nissan Pathfinder over the last 17 years. The 2013 Nissan Pathfinder is much bigger and a lot more luxurious than my old 1988 Pathfinder. The interior cabin is nice and well laid out except for the faux wood grain panelling. I’d prefer to see carbon fibre or brush steel trim. The centre console stack has large buttons and knobs which come in handy during the winter time .

Interior cargo space in the back with the 2nd and 3rd row seats folded down is great. In fact, one of the reasons I really liked the rear cargo area was that it was able to fit five bundles of the Filipino Journal perfectly. The additional cubby storage under the rear cargo area was good for storing smaller items.

The 2nd row 40-60 split seating is equipped with heated seats and can slide, recline and fold flat for access to the 3rd row or increase cargo space. The 3rd row 50-50 split seating can also recline (limited) and fold down

and great for the kiddies and maybe some camping gear.

The Pathfinder is in a very busy class of competitors which include the Mazda CX-9, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia Sorento, Toyota Highlander, Ford

Photos by Ron Cantiveros | Filipino Journal

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Explorer and the Chevy Traverse.

The 2013 Nissan Pathfinder 4WD SL price as tested was $37,698 comes with a 3.5L V6 engine with 260hp and 240ft.-lb of torque.

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

by Gem & Lita Anis

Ifugao Rice Terraces, "Stairways to Heaven" (Part II)

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ice terraces are found throughout the world particularly in Asia such as Nepal, Bali (Indonesia), Guangxi and Yunnan (China), Northern Vietnam and Laos, Bhutan, India, in Machu Picchu (Peru), Eastern Africa, or even in northern Portugal and in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, but nowhere are they as uniquely outstanding and spectacular as in the rugged forested mountains of northern Philippines because of their higher altitude (up to 1,500 meters) 5,000 feet above sea level and steeper slopes (maximum of 70 degrees). Apparently, rice terraces are commonly referred to as "stairways to heaven" because they stretch like stepping stones to the sky. If they are laid end to end they would wrap half-way around the globe!

Carved from the mountains over the past 2,000 years by the local native people, the Ifugaos, using their bare hands without the aid of machinery to provide them level ground steps to plant rice and vegetables naturally irrigated by means of mountain streams and springs from the rainforests high in the mountains and chanelled into canals running downhill through the rice terraces. There is no traditional use of carabaos in plowing the rice fields on the level steps. Instead,

farmers use their feet. And there's no use of fertilizers - they let the roots to decay for the next planting season.

One of the terraces not given much exposure is the Hungduan Rice Terraces. From Sanafe Inn and Restaurant (where we stayed) at Banaue Trade Centre, Hungduan is about one and a half-hour jerky and bumpy jeepney drive through the narrow but rustic scenic road difficult to disperse with oncoming vehicle making the ride a little bit scary.

Along the way we see young and old people alike mostly men, chewing on some "nga nga" or they call it "moma". Moma chewing, very much attributed to the Ifugaos, is a concoction of moma or betel (areco) nut, the betel leaf ("hapid"), and the lime powder called "apog".

For more flavour some add tobacco in the mix. The result is: spewing out the brick-red coloured spittle.

Our tourist driver says that some Ifugaos chew up to ten times a day because it is believed to ward-off hunger or exhaustion or to some it could bring a sense of heightened sensation. In Ifugao, local ordinances have been enacted on anti-spitting of moma in order to avoid indiscriminate spitting in public places.

We have several stops to take

pictures until we reach Hungduan rice terraces view deck where the inscription reads: "The rice terraces in Hungduan, Ifugao, have been inscribed in the UNESCO world heritage list as a cultural landscape.

Inscription in the heritage list confirms the exceptional universal value of the rice terraces as a cultural landscape which deserves protection for the benefit of all humanity."

The Hungduan Rice Terraces is just breathtaking! From the deck we go a long way down the hundreds of concrete steps until we reach the bottom and the terraces, then meander through the paddies by walking cautiously on stoned or cemented narrow paths ("pilapil") above the mud stone dikes. We come so close to the water-filled rice paddies. Not far from us is the bed of green rice seedlings ready for planting. With the sun above us we do not feel the slight cold of the day.

Take memorable photography and then we ascend, catching our breath, the hundreds of steps again.

Hungduan not only has magnificent rice terraces. It also plays a significant role in the history of the Philippines because it is here that the head of Japanese Imperial Army, General Tomoyuki Yamashita, the famous "Tiger of Malaya", made his last stand during the Second World War before his surrender at Kiangan.

On our way back to Banaue we make a stop at the NFA (National Food Authority) Aguian view deck to enjoy the Banaue Rice Terraces view that is printed on the 1,000 Philippine peso bill. Here I try to mount on a wooden scooter for a nominal fee!

From Balintawak Cloverlef

August 2013 in north Manila at the beginning of North Luzon Expressway and the "Welcome to Banaue" sign is about 333 kms. Travelling by SUV with my niece, Maritess and her husband Dr. Ted Cabiscuelas together with their son Yuri and friend Fran takes as about nine hours due to blind curves through the mountains with few stops for breakfast and snacks.

Once around Banaue jeepneys (converted jeeps/bus) are easily available. It is better and safer to get one recommended by the hotel or the tourist office at the information centre close to the police station.

So, what are you waiting for?

Come and see the "Eighth Wonder of the World"!

Gem & family relatives in Hungduan

Hungduan Rice Terraces

A close up view of Rice Terraces

Baby Santos Celebrates Birthday Baby Santos celebrated her birthday with a company of friends at the Kitchen Bistro, Marriot Hotel last Tuesday August 13, 2013.

Congratulations Baby!

Baby Santos with her husband Lani.

Baby Santos with the company of some of her friends.

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August 2013

Rey & Lai Dalangin Celebrate 25th Wedding Anniversary Rey & Lai Dalangin of Edmonton raised a friendship, a family and built a beautiful marriage together. After 25 years they renewed their vows of marriage at St. Theresa Roman Catholic Church last Saturday August 16, 2013.

Reception followed at Palabok House.

Congratulations Rai & Lai!

With Guests

Rai & Lai Dalangin

Rai & Lai with their two daughters

With Guests

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August 2013