Filipino Journal Winnipeg Volume 26 Number 07

26 Years April 5 - 20, 2012 • Volume 26, Number 7

Dr. Pagtakhan nominated Top 25 Canadian Immigrants

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Winnipeg, Manitoba Publications Mail Agreement 40032612

Vickar Transcona Rotary Village Thirty new homes built in Camiguin, Philippines

Page 8►

Travel: London Calling

Page 14►

Pages 12- 13► Larry and Tova Vickar, along with friends and associates traveled to the Philippines on a 11-day mission which included a tours Cagayan de Oro and Camiguin Island. The highlight of the mission was the blessing of thirty homes and a multipurpose hall in the Vickar Transcona Rotary Portview Village built in partnership with CFC ANCOP Homes.

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Filipino Journal

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

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April 5 - 20, 2012

April 5 - 20, 2012

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

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4 Filipino Journal

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

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April 5 - 20, 2012

April 5 - 20, 2012

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

The Republic of Adobo

by Rod E. Cantiveros

Is Pres. Noynoy Aquino fighting hard to eradicate corruptions?

P

For the Foodies: new exciting Filipino recipes and desserts!

resident Noynoy Aquino is on the right track to pursue his main mantra to fight the corruption embedded in every segment of the government. As others commented, PNoy has to continue to clean the government as an answer to some criticism on his mother, Cory Aquino, failure to effect a big change in the government during her term as president. She failed terribly to fight corruption. Yes, in 1986, the end of Marcos era, Filipinos were looking forward to change a complete change in the government.

As EDSA I raised Cory Aquino to presidency, every one had hoped for a better government. It was a difficult job for a former housewife to lead the country which was on the brink of financial disaster because of corruptions.And PNoy as the current president, Cory Aquino's unfinished battle continues.

What a reversal in fate and fortune for the Former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo who failed to escape from the strength of the law.

Before election, she had all the hopes that the appointments to the judiciary would benefit her against possible court cases. In her mind, she forgave her erstwhile opponent former president Joseph Estrada from any court case. Parallel to her action, she thought that the current President Noynoy Aquino would do the same to set her free from the judicial fingerings. And looking forward for freedom after her presidency, she did many midnight appointments to secure her "freedom". But everything had changed. PNoy Aquino won the presidency and promised to clean the government. GMA is under arrest;lately, his husband, Mike Arroyo; Leandro Mendoza, former DOTC secretary; Ruben Abalos, former Comelec chairman, were arrested and bailed; Corona, a midnight appointee and the current supreme court judge, is now facing impeachment! And more arrests are being planned in the near future.

And Filipinos are hoping again for a good government.

Signs of good governance of PNoy are all over the place. For one, the Philippine government has become a financial contributor to help some of the financially unstable countries in Europe. I my memory, I Never did remember that the Philippines participate in this bailout abroad. Added to this is the abundance of agribiz initiatives. Agriculture is now being re-engineered to the country selfsufficient on agricultural products especially rice. In spite of some natural disasters, the output of the rice production is upped and with

the forecast in the coming years, the Philippines will not longer import rice: a staple food for Pinoys.

Also, Preceso Alcala, secretary of agriculture, has mobilized the small and medium farmers to rally on the production of agricultural and aquaculture products. Now-a-days, many "bagsakan" centres have been established and operated. In my Quezon Province, a big "bagsakan ng gulay at prutas" centre has benefited the small farmers. I visited the "bagsakan site" and talked to the farmers. And I found out that they are happy to market their produce. The governement instituted "micro finance" to help the farmers. Assignment of produce to be harvested is encouraged to avoid duplication and over-supply.

Other agricultural industries are being targeted. Hundred of hectares are being planted with arabica coffee, new strain of coconut for copra and young coconut juice productions; herbs and spices are becoming available. Acquaculture is being promoted to push for more seafood production. At last, as we understand, Agriculture is the basic foundation of industrialization.

Filipinos can do it!

Inspired by the current surge of agricultural production, my retired brothers, professional nephews and nieces, and myself initiated "balikbukid" in our family farms in Quezon Province. We found the rich potentials to re-engineer our farm activities. I was so inspired by the beauty of the farms. Such view is to satisfy your senses. Green green grass of home; coconut trees with fruits and side by side, the mahogany and the narra trees grow. The palay is heavy with grains. In our other farm, the creek is widened and converted into ponds for the duck and fish farms. And happy to see a sow with more than 13 piglets; and looking forward for another 3 pregnant sows. We have plans to plant more coconut trees, mahogany, arabica coffee and cacao along the mountains; and anahaw for flower accent; sampaguita (jasmine), luyang dilaw (turmeric) and tanglad(lemon grass) for herbal teas. Our "balikbukid" initiative has caught the interest of some neighboring farmers. We encourage them to duplicate our pilot project. And there is plan to set up a "bagsakan" in our area so that farmers can avail to market their products.(Three years ago, most of the vegetable vendors in our town would sell veggies from Pangasinan. Today, they sell veggies and fruits grown and harvested in Quezon. A big leap for the farmers to earn money and

Filipino Journal 5

for the consumers to spend lesser safe, and Winnipeg is the best place money for their daily needs.) to raise a family! "Ah, ganoon ba?

Uneasy lang ako, kasi, from corrupt Where would the 300,000 capital to murder capital.Ano ba umemployed nurses go? This is the 'yan?" I said: "Promise, we will predicament of the government for have a guided tour when you arrive having an over-supply of nurses. Is in Winnipeg, a beautiful quiet city! it back to be a contractual worker in big stores and restaurants? Or Everytime I pass by at some of at best, to become nannies and the condominium projects, i do caregivers? But some countries get a chill in my whole body. I have imposed strict requirements think i do have "terekenitophobia" for nurses.

And due to this or "earthquaketophobia", fear of problem, some schools suffer less earthquake. I cannot remove from enrollment for nursing courses. my mind the experiences i had Even some schools of nursing during two major earthquakes in the are being padlocked because of Philippines. Remember the Ruby a poor showing in the licensure Tower of 1968? and the earthquake examinations. As a matter of fact, of 1973. And the experiences with the government has been vocal and these two events are vivid in my open to study more on the various mind. Nowadays, condo projects skills needed abroad. There is are getting higher and higher. change going on among the young Developers are aiming high as if Pinoys: to study welding, auto they would the reach for the star. mechanics, machinist, plumbing, Philippine is a part of the ring of building constructions course and fire and has so much earthquake other vocational courses which are faults. Even Donald Trump and in demand abroad. The Philippine Paris Hilton (condo names after educational system needs a major her) are caught in the frenzy. And overhaul! some condo projects are being sorethumbs edifices which rise from One of the applicants in the the desolate and squalor places.

Manitoba's provincial nominee Look around Metro Manila and program asked me if Winnipeg is find some unfinished and unpainted safe. I said yes, very very safe. Why structures? Yes, the brochure gives did you ask? She smiled and said: you the best of everything, but visit "kasi, sir, doon sa nominee forum sa the place, and some high condos internet, there is a line which caught are surrounded by the desolate me uneasy to move to Winnipeg. and crowded residences. Are those It says: Winnipeg is the murder condos earthquake proofs and safe capital of Canada.! So, i won't be from intruders?

Records from safe in Winnipeg. Biro mo, "murder some building statistics probe capital" of Canada. I am leaving otherwise. the "corrupt capital of the world; and then, I will be moving to the And great news for the foodies! We "murder capital" of Canada. Mas did hop from one resto to another gusto ko na dito, corrupt capital bistro. When you're going home rather than living in a "murder for a holiday, try these new and capital". I was dumbfounded! I said: "Listen, crime is everywhere... but Winnipeg is so safe. Yes we have murder cases but every country has this problem too. And we have a big Filipino community and a local government to help you...Canada is

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deconstructed Pinoy's cuisines: Crackling or Crispy Dinuguan, Binuskilat na Tilapia, burlesk peanut frolicking in garlic oil, binagoongan friedrice, tinapa friedrice, squid ink friedrice, binaligtad na halu-halo, crispy beef bones, royal turon (banana, halaya, macapuno and red beans rolled into one wrapper) for dessert with ice cream; tinutong tangkay ng kangkong, crispy boneless anchovy, fish stomach chicharon, bagong anyo dried fish, and more. Pinoys are great in naming names! Enjoy until the last bite! I cracked one of my front teeth!

And for the fishing affincionados, there is great place to engage in tilapia fishing! Go to Broadwalk Centre, near the Cultural Centre, at the back of the Philpppine Yatch Club and bring your fishing rod and enjoy tilapia fishing. Early morning, along the seawall, hundreds of kababayans enjoy the tilapia fishing. Yes, a salt water tilapia is the current craze. As the story goes, most of the tilapia in the Manila bay are the result of the sendong flood. The overflow of the many fishponds during the thyphoon Sendong was responsible for the tilapia to migrate to the Manila Bay. Join the crowd while you drink San mig from one of the bars along the seawall! A great escape from the hustle-bustle of Manila and its environs! You can even grill the fish and have a shrimp paste and calamansi to enjoy the day.

Ang sarap mabuhay sa sariling ATIN! And welcome to the Republic of Adodo!

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Filipino Journal

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

by Raniel Carmona Ponteras (This column is reserved for the readers of Filipino Journal who have something to say about particular issues concerning, but not limited to, the Filipino culture especially politics and current events. So, if you have something to say, write it down and then submit it to elfideas102@yahoo.com. If we find your article befitting our standards, we will publish it here.—Ed.)

Making UP a World-Class University

A

former classmate of mine who was then starting her PhD in University of Michigan once told me that, introducing herself in one of her classes, she confidently told the group that she had her bachelor and master’s degree from University of the Philippines (UP).

The group posed this question: “Where is that?... never heard of it before.”

University of the Philippines has always been considered the country’s top performing university as can be seen through its outstanding performance in research, national licensure examinations, and performance of its graduates. This is the case in so far as the contextual setting is the Philippines.

While UP has had a decent standing in the annual world university rankings in the past years, its standing has seen an unremitting decline in these later years. If Times Higher Education’s top 400 universities (2011–2012) and 100 most reputable universities (2012) were to be our basis, then there is a grave reason that UP has to wake up from its slumber. University of the Philippines (along with other reputable Philippine universities) failed to enter the list.

Given the fact that UP is a government-funded university which can share only a small amount of the annual national budget for education, it would seem nearly impossible for UP to keep pace with the performance of the world’s top universities whose

funding/resource is remarkably a mile greater.

On the “lofty assumption” that UP has enough (if not more than enough) funding from the government and that its top-earning alumni graciously contribute to the university’s academic fund, then something can surely be done to make UP a world-class university.

Perhaps, the following proposalsmay be considered:

research-oriented. Being able to (regularly) publish research should be one of the course requirements for students, especially graduate students.

7) Small class size for both the undergraduate and graduate programs. This would encourage better participation and exchange of ideas during classes.

8) Scholarship grants and awards for top performing students.

This would encourage academic excellence on the students.

9) Culture of critical thinkers.

It is by instilling in the students the value of critical thinking in classroom discussions and research that we preserve or enhance UP’s culture of critical thinking.

10) High salary of faculty members. This would not only compensate the dedication and hard work of professors but also attract professors from other top-performing universities to teach in the university.

1) A cheap tuition fee. By having a cheap tuition fee, UP can attract more top-performing high school students from all over the country (and from other countries) to take the University of the Philippines College Admission Test (UPCAT) and eventually, have competent students who are willing to take the hard grind for scholastic pursuits.

2) Updated library resources.

This means having a good quantity and quality of books and access to updated local and international journals whether in print or online.

3) Faculty members must be While the above are more important, sent to top-performing universities the following proposals must be abroad whether through university funding or scholarship grants from a foreign university—for graduate courses, research fellowship, or as visiting professors. This is one of the best ways to upgrade and further develop the capacities of UP’s faculty members.

4) Faculty members and students must be granted funding to present their researches in local and international conferences. Also, this is one of the best ways to upgrade and further develop the capacities of UP’s faculty members and students.

5) Invite or hire professors from top-performing universities.

Through a high salary and/or an acquaintance, UP could attract professors from top-performing universities.

6) Undergraduate and graduate programs must be highly

April 5 - 20, 2012 considered also: improved security in the campus, exposure through local and international competitions, having world-class engineering and science laboratories, academic freedom and freedom of expression,reduced or no teaching load for professors working on their research, exchange student program, and joint-program and affiliation with top performing universities.

I understand that the foregoing proposals—grounded on a lofty assumption of sufficient funding— purely makes UP’s being a worldclass university an ideal—for now.

But, at least, this might serve as a blueprint in the future—a distant future.

Yes, not at this time when the government needs to give a bigger share to the health sector than to education. Not at this time when the government couldn’t even control unremitting oil price hike. And, not at this time when the Philippines is still faced with the problems of poverty, corruption, and the nonparticipation of perhaps the majority of its citizenry.

Post-Secondary Education Continues to be a Focus of this Conservative Government, Bruinooge

W

innipeg, Manitoba, March 29, 2012 — The Conservative Government today presented the 2012 federal budget and once again provided strong support for research, education and training.

“Our Government continues to support Canadian Universities and Colleges and this budget builds on a record that is unmatched in recent decades,” says Rod Bruinooge, Chair of the Government’s PostSecondary Education Caucus.

We all want Canada’s students to succeed in the global economy

with the help of the best education possible. That’s why since 2006, our Conservative Government has provided much needed support for our students. We have invested more than $10 billion annually in students and education, including more than $3 billion in transfers to provinces for post-secondary education and over $7 billion in direct support to students and their families.

Canada’s Economic Action Plan includes over $600 million in support of cutting-edge research

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infrastructure through the Canada Foundation for Innovation.

Through linkages between firms and post-secondary institutions, knowledge generated by federal support for post-secondary research is harnessed to address market needs.

Universities such as the University of Manitoba will benefit from the Government’s 2012 federal investments in education, and I look forward to working with Universities and Colleges across Canada.

April 5 - 20, 2012

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

by aLfie vera mella elfideas102@yahoo.com

What Have You Learned Today from Reading?

(On Making Trivial Things Learned from Literature Important)

M

y being a regular book reader is a major factor in keeping myself updated on various subjects, as well as in giving my paradigms and perspectives a regular check and scan and necessary change or shift.

What have you accomplished this week?

Were you able to do what you planned to do?

Did you miss breakfast again?

Who is your favorite mathematician?

Did you know that Albert Einstein loved music, had started playing the violin at an early age with the influence of his mother? that Thomas Alva Edison’s fascination for Classical music led him to inventing the phonograph?

Are you a fan of Madam Auring, Rene Mariano, Brother Eli, Mike Velarde, feng shui, Nostradamus, or Shakespeare?

Do you believe in the God? Or, are you an atheist?

Correct now, wrong tomorrow; right today, wrong yesterday.

Many science fictions of yesterday had become facts of today, in the same manner that countless facts of the past had transformed into amazing or amusing trivia of the day.

Who was the second man to set foot (I mean, shoes) on Earth’s moon?

Neil Armstrong?

What is the world’s smallest living primate? Don’t ever answer “the tarsier,” for it no longer is!

Is your age a decade ago the same as that on your last birthday?

Did you know that Superman died and then lived again? …that the pterodactyl and the plesiosaurus are not dinosaurs? …that Luke Skywalker is no longer Knowledge is certainly diverse and single? unstable.

And Chewbacca already dead?

Truths and fallacies are relative, for they are continually changing.

We need to be flexible yet not yielding, What’s the capital of Mali? tolerant but not easily persuaded, Where was Pablo Neruda born? accepting and considerate but never Who wrote the Younger Edda? arrogant nor gullible.

How old was John Lennon at the time of his death?

Have you read Gulliver’s Travels?

On what day of the week did Harry What’s the surname of Alice of Potter & the Sorcerer’s Stone Wonderland? begin? How about The Hobbit?

How many legs does a centipede have? What about a butterfly in its What do the “e” and “e” in e.e. larval stage? Is a caterpillar an cummings stand for? What about insect? Is a whale shark a whale? the J and K in Rowling’s name or a starfish a fish? a donkey a horse? the J.R.R. in Tolkien’s?

Sun a star?

Canada warns against Immigration Fraud

O

ttawa, 26 March 2012 Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) and the Competition Bureau are joining together during Fraud Prevention Month to warn potential immigrants to be wary of websites claiming to be, or to be affiliated with, official Government of Canada Websites.

These websites, which sometimes use the Canada wordmark or CIC logo without permission to target individuals wishing to live in Canada, purport to offer special immigration deals or guaranteed high-paying jobs for a fee. Unfortunately, these claims are fraudulent and the victim loses his or her money with no tangible results.

The only people who may charge a fee to represent or advise people in connection with a Canadian immigration proceeding or application are authorized immigration consultants, lawyers, Quebec notaries, and paralegals regulated by a law society. Under

Canada's immigration programs, all people are treated equally, whether they hire someone to represent them or not.

of Canada. If you are suspicious about a website, do a Web search to see if anyone has reported any problems with that site.

• Do not pay for offers of CIC and the Competition Bureau guaranteed entry into Canada offer the following advice on how or faster processing of your to avoid becoming a victim of application. These claims are false. immigration fraud: • Be wary of websites advertised in unsolicited emails from strangers and do not give out personal information unless you know who you are dealing with.

• Before hiring an immigration representative, do your homework: ask for a referral from someone you trust, check their credentials, and discuss the services they will offer. For information on how to choose an immigration representative, you may visit CIC's website at www. cic.gc.ca/english/information/ representative/index.asp.

• There is no "immigration consultant" website that is part of, or affiliated with, the Government

CIC recently launched a multilingual ad campaign warning prospective immigrants, permanent residents and Canadian citizens not to be taken in by crooked immigration consultants. This includes a short video warning people not to be duped into committing marriage fraud. The video directs people to a special page on the CIC website (www.immigration. gc.ca/antifraud) to find out how to immigrate to Canada "the right way."

CIC encourages everyone to report immigration fraud by calling the Border Watch Tip Line at 1-888-502-9060.

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Filipino Journal 7

Are you a vegetarian? a vegan? My mind may be free-flowing, but a fructarian? a pescotarian? a it’s never volatile. utilitarian? a Presbyterian? a Rastafarian?

The time to review your own facts and fictions is now.

Someone I know said, “Any religion that prohibits the eating I’m continually reviewing mine. of something is stupid.” I said, “I don’t care, as long as followers of Final Note that religion do not impose their I crawl back into my literary beliefs on me.” nest frequently like an ostrich, digging my head into the pages of The meeting of many musical minds Literature. and the views of various visionaries are indeed a lavish banquet for souls seeking new truths and horizons.

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Filipino Journal

April 5 - 20, 2012

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

Winnipeg's own Dr. Rey Pagtakhan among the Top Canadian immigrant finalists

W

innipeg's Filipino community is being represented by Dr. Rey Pagtakhan as one two Winnipeg finalists in Canadian Immigrant magazine and RBC Royal Bank's fourth annual Top 25 Canadian Immigrant awards.

Dr. Pagtakhan is a retired children’s lung specialist and pediatric professor, author of several papers and chapters for medical journals and books, widely lectured, and the first Filipino Canadian elected to Canada’s Parliament (MP - Winnipeg North) and appointed senior cabinet minister in the Government of Canada. His contributions to his constituents, the community and the country are numerous and ground-breaking, and have advanced many causes and issues related to health, medicine and the immigrant experience.

To read more about Dr. Rey Pagtakhan and other outstanding candidates and to vote, log on to www.canadianimmigrant.ca/top25 More than 25,000 Canadians voted in last year’s awards program. Among the winners were internationally known entrepreneur and television personality Robert Herjavec, social entrepreneur and author Nick Noorani and Canadian Football League superstar Michael “Pinball” Clemons.

“These awards are a great opportunity for communities to come together to recognize new Canadians, and we are so proud to

have local finalists in the running for this honour,” said Tes Aiello, Director of Public Relations with the Manitoba Filipino Business Council and Manager Client Care at RBC’s Portage and Collegiate branch. “As a community with deep cultural roots, we encourage Winnipeggers to read about the finalists and cast your vote for the new Canadian who inspires you the most.”

The Top 25 Canadian Immigrants of 2012 will be announced in May. Each of the Top 25 will receive a commemorative plaque and a $500 donation from RBC Royal Bank toward an authorized Canadian charity of their choice.

Canadian Immigrant magazine and RBC Royal Bank have opened the voting for the fourth annual Top 25 Canadian Immigrant awards.

Canadians are encouraged to visit www.canadianimmigrant.ca/top25 until April 13, 2012 to cast their vote for the most inspiring finalists who represent diverse ethnic communities and cultures across Canada.

The awards program serves to uncover and celebrate the inspiring stories and remarkable achievements of Canadian immigrants from all walks of life who strive to make this country a better place. The call-for nominations phase that launched the 2012 awards program last November garnered hundreds of submissions over a two-month period.

“This year’s Top 75 finalists are a dynamic mix of people who have been nominated for their extraordinary contributions to Canada – from improving the economy to sparking meaningful conversations,” Margaret Jetelina, editor of Canadian Immigrant Magazine. “It’s going to be difficult to choose just 25 who are the most inspiring.”

Dr. Rey Pagtakhan

Quezon Province Association of Manitoba presents

Mayuhan 19, Saturday, 2011 MAPLES COMMUNITY CENTRE If you need more information for those who want to join the Sagalas, please get in touch with Don Cymbalisty, President, QPAM- 775-4426 or email to: qpam.inc@ gmail.com Join us in the festival of harvest! Join us in the celebrating one of the most popular Tourist Attractions in Quezon, the Santacruzan and Pahiyas!

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April 5 - 20, 2012

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

“Manila Road” Screening

F

ernando Dalayoan is a teacher, filmmaker, writer and performer living and working in Winnipeg. Creating stories captured in short films that have Asian influence, particularly about Filipino-Canadian experiences, inspires him. He has produced, written, and directed two short films entitled, Tutulungan Kita ( I’ll Help You) and Young Ligaw, (Courtship Among the Young Filipinos) This year, Fernando has written and directed, with a small grant from MTS his first short documentary, Manila Road, that will be broadcast on MTS Winnipeg on Demand in 2012. The documentary depicts the historical immigration

Fundraiser. Tickets can be reserved by e-mailing fdalayoan@yahoo. ca or phoning Gemma Dalayoan at of Filipinos, the largest visible 697-1934. minorities in the city of Winnipeg, Manitoba. Furthermore, in this documentary, Fernando reflects on his personal and family connections to Canada, his adopted country. The twenty-minute documentary also shows the perspectives of some Filipino immigrants about living in Winnipeg.

Manila Road will premiere at PCCM on Saturday, April 28, 2012. Doors open at 1:00 p.m and screening will begin at 2:00 pm sharp. Tickets are free, however, seating is limited. Refreshment will be provided after the screening.

There will also be a silver collection, proceeds of which will go to Lord Nelson School Camp 2012 Fernando Dalayoan

Lucban shrine set to welcome a million devotees this Holy Week

R

enowned healer, Fr. Joey Faller said more than a million devotees are expected to visit the Kamay ni Hesus shrine this Holy

Week.

Located at the foot of mystical Mount Banahaw in Lucban, Quezon, the shrine welcomes pilgrims including politicians and high government officials.

Faller built the shrine in 2002 on a hilly part of Tinamnan village, 2 kilometers from the town.

Pilgrims usually start to arrive in the afternoon of Holy Thursday. On Good Friday, Faller will read the Seven Last Words to the pilgrims.

Pilgrims start lining up as early as 2 a.m. for the physically challenging but spiritually sanctifying climb on the 300-step “Stairway to Heaven” to reach the 50-foot statue of the resurrected Christ on top of the hill.

On Oct. 10, 2010, a new chapel has been built at the bow of “Noah’s Ark,” for guests who may not want to go to the main church. Inside the “Noah’s Ark House of Prayer and Spirituality,” is a two-story building with 25 air-conditioned single, double and dormitory-type rooms, and a refectory and seminar room for families, corporate clients and Christian groups holding retreats, seminars and other spiritual activities.

The ark will also serve as a retirement house for aging priests of the diocese of Lucena, which runs the vast complex.

Faller said officials from the local government, police and military, representatives of nongovernmental organizations, and members of the shrine staff met last month to plan peace and order measures for this week’s pilgrimage.

Traffic on the national highway in front of the shrine complex is heavy during Holy Week, particularly on Good Friday. Early on Good Friday, both sides of the 24-km stretch highway from Lucena City to Lucban teem with hikers.

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Filipino Journal 9

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Filipino Journal

April 5 - 20, 2012

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

Harper Government to help Canadian Businesses Become Innovation Leaders

H

alifax, Nova Scotia, April 2, 2012—The success of A.C. Dispensing Equipment Inc. and the government's plan for innovation in Economic Action Plan 2012 were highlighted today by the Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State for Science and Technology.

"Canada's long-term economic competitiveness depends on innovative businesses that create jobs and growth," said Minister of State Goodyear. "That is why the Government of Canada

remains committed to investing in science and technology."

Increasing business investment in research and development is crucial to Canada'slong-term competitiveness, and programs such as National Research Council Canada's Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC–IRAP) are helping businesses innovate.

An NRC–IRAP funding recipient, A.C. Dispensing Equipment Inc., better known under its brand name, SureShot Dispensing Systems, is an

innovative product development company headquartered in Lower Sackville, Nova Scotia. Founded in 1985, SureShot Dispensing Systems specializes in dispensing equipment used to "customize"noncarbonated beverages with sweeteners, concentrated flavours and refrigerated whipped toppings through an automated process.

The company's technology provides many benefits to restaurant operators, including consistent individual portions, improved sanitation practices and increased speed of service. Upon

its inception, SureShot Dispensing Systems had two employees; today it employs more than 122 people in Nova Scotia.

Support for science and technology (S&T) has been a government priority since 2006, as exemplified by the introduction of the S&T Strategy in 2007 and the series of initiatives to build an innovative economy that followed.

Federal S&T expenditures reached nearly $11.9 billion in 2010–11.

In Economic Action Plan 2012, our government announced that $1.1 billion over five years

will go to directly supporting research and development and $500 million for venture capital.

These investments and actions keep our economy strong, create high-qualityjobs and ensure that Canada is a premier destination for the world's brightest minds.

To learn more about Economic Action Plan 2012, please visit the Budget 2012 web page.

To learn more about the Government of Canada's S&T initiatives, visit the Science and Technology for Canadians website.

Alam Mo Ba Na…?

(This new column will feature trivial facts and information that involve ni Adonis in Fernandez Filipinos or the Filipino community Canada.)

C A

• Twenty-one million Canadians visited the United States in 2011 (Winnipeg Free Press, March 24, 2012)

• Manitoba is the province in Canada least likely to experience earthquakes (Natural Resources Canada)

Thank you for making this the newest FILIPINO COMMUNIT Y

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• Winnipeg is one of the top-10 best places (cities) to live in Canada (Moneysense Magazine, 2012)

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• In 1980, a Philippine Consulate was opened in Winnipeg (Winnipeg Free Press, March 3, 2012)

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April 5 - 20, 2012

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

Filipino Journal 11

by aLfie vera mella elfideas102@yahoo.com

Tardiness Is Not Always Caused

by Laziness (On the Factors underlying Tardiness and the Willingness to Change Oneself) Madalas ka bang ma-late sa iyong trabaho? Palagi ka bang hulí sa iyong appointments o sa mga pagtitipon o pagkikitakita?

D

uring our recent vacation in the Philippines (from mid-January to midFebruary 2012), I finally realized that the main reason many Filipinos in the Philippines fail to keep up with punctuality is not simply laziness nor irresponsibility but the boulders of obstacles caused by the heavy traffic and difficulty in transportation, whether one is a commuter or a motorist— which makes a few-kilometerdistance equivalent to more than an hour of travel. Because of this, ordinary trips of going to work or coming home from work becomes a daily marathon, which could really exhaust a person and drain her energy and enthusiasm.

I’m not justifying the tardiness of Filipinos in the Philippines, particularly of those who live in Metro Manila and in other highly urbanized regions and cities for the challenges that I have cited; what I was trying to emphasize is that, in the Philippines, therefore, to be punctual is to be really strong-willed and extremely disciplined. And this is really a challenge, yet it is something doable and achievable only if one will put his mind onto it.

Here in Canada, at least in Winnipeg where I live, I don’t see any reason for someone who

has his own vehicle to be late for work or appointments other than laziness, irresponsibility, difficulty in getting up early in the morning because of lack of sleep during the previous night, the vehicle’s cranking down or getting into a road accident, unexpected snowfall, or the simple disinterest in one’s work which takes away one’s enthusiasm in arriving at work early or on time.

These are the reasons I suddenly felt that my having been tardy for work or for appointments was caused more by my irresponsibility and subconscious disregard for others’ time than by uncontrollable factors such as what I have enumerated.

Sa Madaling Salita Bilang pagbabago sa aking sarili, pipilitin kong maging maaga palagi sa pagdating sa trabaho; lalo na ngayong napagtanto ko na namang muli na, kumpara sa sitwasyon ng trapiko sa Pilipinas, mas di hamak na madali at mabilis ang biyahe rito sa Canada.

Or, in Simple Words I am now imposing upon myself the virtue of punctuality especially when it comes to arriving early at work. Compared with the traffic condition in the Philippines, commuting and travelling here in Canada are far much easier and faster.

Kevin Chief MLA for Point Douglas As we celebrate Easter may you and your family be blessed with peace and happiness!

Maligayang Pasko ng Pagkabuhay!

kevinchief.ca (204) 421-9126

In the busy streets of major cities in the Philippines, ordinary trips of going to work or coming home from work becomes a daily marathon and could really exhaust a person and drain her energy and enthusiasm.

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April 5 - 20, 2012

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The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

April 5 - 20, 2012

New homes and multipurpose hall blessed during Vickar-ANCOP mission to Camiguin

P

erched high above the Port of Benoni, overlooking the Bohol Sea sits the newly constructed Larry & Tova Vickar Multipurpose Hall and 30 new homes. The multipurpose hall is a small two level, 2,000sqft community centre built around the Vickar Rotary Transcona Winnipeg ANCOP Portview Village on Camiguin Island in Northern Mindanao. The newly constructed village is composed of 30 homes which have been gifted to families on the island.

Camiguin Island, located just south of the Visayas, is a 2-hour ferry ride from Cagayan de Oro City which is a 1-hour flight from Manila is where where you can find Larry & Tova Vickar’s most recent philanthropic efforts and continued partnership with ANCOP Canada.

ANCOP International has been providing housing to the homeless and marginalized Filipinos thru its various projects all across the Philippines.

In a long term commitment to ANCOP Canada, formerly ANCOP/ GK, Mr. Vickar’s charitable donations continue to fund and support this worthwhile project.

Through ANCOP fundraising efforts in partnership with the Vickar Automotive Group, the new Vickar Rotary Transcona Winnipeg

ANCOP Portview Village on Camiguin Island have constructed over 30 homes, a new multipurpose hall and facilitated scholarship and educational programs for children on the island.

The 10-day long mission to the Philippines was focused on visiting the ANCOP village, meeting with the children and the families that now have homes to live in, and thanking all parties involved in ensuring the success of the project.

Camiguin Hospitality Larry and Tova Vickar, along with the mission team arrived in the port of Benoni after a 2-hour ferry ride from the Port of Cagayan de Oro to a throng of hosts from ANCOP, Couples for Christ, Rotary International Camiguin club and local government officials. The proverbial red carpet was rolled out for our visit and we were treated to a

feast at the Blue Lagoon Restaurant.

After lunch, a short informal visit to the village was planned as formal ceremonies to bless the multipurpose hall and village were scheduled for the following day.

The Camiguin hospitality continued later that evening as Camiguin Governor Jurdin Jesus Modina Romualdo, invited our group to his residence for dinner

and live entertainment. Winnipeg mission leader, Randy Viray along with Larry Vickar and Councillor Mike Pagtakhan used this opportunity to thank the governor for his cooperation in this project.

The night was not complete without dancing and karaoke which featured the trio of Randy Viray, Mike Pagtakhan and Steven Minken. continued on page 13

Flood Ravaged Cagayan de Oro Flying into Cagayan de Oro, the schedule included the opportunity to visit the affected areas around Cagayan de Oro that saw a tropical storm hit last December, which triggered flash floods that killed more than 1000 people and have left many more missing. Iligan and Cagayan de Oro cities were the hardest hit.

Witnessing the devastation and the emergency operations in Cagayan de Oro was gut wrenching.

In the short time we were there, our group heard first hand stories of loss from two brothers that lost family in the flood. In touring the TIBASAK Evacuation Coordinating Centre and Command Post, a small donation was made towards on-going humanitarian efforts to resettle affected and displaced families.

Inside the Larry and Tova Vickar Multipurpose Hall with children and parents from the scholarship program.

Camiguin Govevernor Romualdo with Randy Viray, Larry Vickar and Mike Pagtakhan.

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Filipino Journal 15

from page 12

Vickar Transcona Village Village Blessing Greeted by an entire village, the mission team arrived to children and adults cheering and waving Philippine and Canadian flags. The ceremony of officially blessing the multipurpose hall and village was an opportunity for everyone to say thank you to Larry and Tova Vickar for their philanthropic efforts.

Speeches by all stakeholders praised Larry and Tova Vickar for visiting Camiguin and donating to a worthy cause. In response, Larry Vickar proclaimed that he will continue

to support the project and that this was only the foundation and that he intends to return to Camiguin.

Building the village would not have been possible without the generous donation of local government officials as they donated the land to ANCOP. As well, coordination and planning of the trip was facilitated by the Randy Viray, ANCOP Philippines, the office of the Governor of Camiguin and officials from the Guinsiliban and Mahinog municipalities and the local Camiguin Rotary International chapter.

Randy Viray and Steven Minken with the school children.

Children line dancing and singing "Welcome to Camiguin" while Larry and Tova dance along with them.

More photos available on Larry and Tova Vickar with the village homes in the background.

Larry Vickar with two brothers that survived the Cagayan de Oro floods last December.

Filipino Journal.com

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Larry and Tova meeting with the children.

Photos by Ron Cantiveros | Filipino Journal

16

Filipino Journal

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

by Gem and Lita Anis

I

The Best of London, England

nitially, the all around hop-on and hop-off double decker bus tour is the best way to discover and explore London, the capital of England and the United Kingdom and the site of the coming 2012 Summer Olympics. Later you can organize your own tour by using the London Underground Network (LUN) which is regarded as the most extensive underground railway in the world.

Most tourists enjoy visiting London's famous historical and cultural landmarks as well as the beautiful parks and gardens.

Situated along the Thames River, the longest river flowing through southern England, is the Tower of London, a historic fortress within rings of defensive walls and surrounded by moat once used as a home of Royalty, a prison and a place of execution and torture and now holds the crown jewels of England.

One of London's famous and most recognizable sights is St. Paul's Cathedral used for the marriage of Prince Charles of Wales and Lady Diana Spencer. This Anglican cathedral with a very substantial crypt holding more than 200 memorials like Sir Winston Churchill, Sir Alexander Fleming and Florence Nightingale is the seat of the Bishop of London. It has hourly prayer and daily services.

However, it is the Westminster Abbey, shaped like a giant cross, that is considered as the most well-known church in the United

Kingdom. English sovereigns have been crowned here and for many centuries it was also the burial place of kings, queens, princes, and many great British poets including Geoffrey Chaucer and Alfred Lord Tennyson. Just recently the Abbey is the wedding site of Prince William and Kate Middleton.

Located in the City of Westminster is the official residence of the British monarch since 1837, the Buckingham Palace, containing 600 rooms with the state rooms, used for official and state entertaining and open to the public each year for most of late July till September. Schedule your trip to the Palace to see and enjoy the pomp and pageantry of the popular Changing of the Guard.

Over the Thames is the Tower Bridge, an iconic symbol of London.

The Tower of London and Tower Bridge.

Consisting of two towers tied together by horizontal walkways, the red, white and blue bridge is mistakenly referred to London Bridge which is actually the next bridge upstream.

Not to be missed is the Palace of Westminster (known as Houses of Parliament) together with the most famous landmark in the UK, the Big Ben. The British Parliament is the bicameral lawmaking body of the UK consiting of the House of Commons and the House of Lords, as the lower and upper house respectively.

The Big Ben is used to describe the tower, the clock and the bell located at the north end of the Palace of Westminster. The main bell, officially known as the Great Bell, is better known by the nickname Big Ben. Don't miss out what's happening at the famous Hyde Park, hosts to open-air concerts and quite popular for sports. Take a walk and wander through it. It ia historically famous for its Speaker's Corner, an area for free speech.

Next we'll visit the Natural History Museum, the Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, the Harrods, West London, Trafalgar Square,and Piccadilly Circus.

Gem and Lita at Westmister Abbey.

The Buckingham Palace.

Big Ben and the House of Parliament.

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April 5 - 20, 2012

Filipino Journal 17

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

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18

Filipino Journal

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

April 5 - 20, 2012

Charice wins Kids’ Choice Award 2012

F

ilipino international singing sensation Charice got six million votes from fans worldwide to win this year’s Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards for Favorite Asian Act. The young singer bested other nominees namely Indonesian singer Agnes Monica, Korean female pop group Wonder Girls, and Malaysian singer-songwriter Yuna.

About two years ago, Charice was also recognized internationally, as “Icon of Tomorrow” of US teen magazine J-14.

Charice tweeted her profound thanks to her fans, known as Chasters for their support.

Fellow Filipino performer and Disney Legend Lea Salonga extended her greetings to Charice.

Other celebrities who congratulated the former “Glee” guest star include TV host-eventologist Tim Yap, and Filipino-American Hollywood actor Reggie Lee, who was part of the films “Pirates of the Carribean,” and “The Fast and the Furious.”

Hosting this year’s The Kids’ Choice Awards 2012 was Hollywood actor Will Smith. The awards night was held last March 31 at the Galen Center in Los Angeles, California.

Lea Salonga rebuffs ‘mentoring’ issue on ‘American Idol’

F

ilipino international singeractress and Tony awardwinning performer Lea Salonga admitted that she was indeed invited to the hit TV show “American Idol” but not as guest mentor.

Speculations that Lea will soon be mentoring the AI contestants in one episode stemmed from a tweet this weekend by the show’s associate musical director, Michael Orland, asking Lea when she will be coming to AI. Michael serves as pianist, vocal coach, and arranger for AI. He

admitted that he indeed would want Lea to mentor the finalists.

For her part, the “Miss Saigon” and “Les Miserables,” star also took it to Twitter to clarify that Michael has invited her to just watch the show and not mentor on it.

She nevertheless appreciated Michael’s positive words about her.

Lea said Jessica Sanchez and Phil Phillips are two of her six bets in the current field of AI contestants.

However she refused to reveal who are her other four bets.

PBB winner Slater Young wants to try showbiz

D

espite admitting that he can’t sing and dance, “Pinoy Big Brother Unlimited” big winner Slater Young said he’d still like to enter showbiz because he believes he has something different to offer to the industry.

Saying getting into the entertainment industry has really been his dream, Slater said he wants to work opposite actresses KC Concepcion, fellow Cebuano Kim Chiu, and Anne Curtis.

The Cebuano engineer added that given the chance, he would love to do a movie project with his closest female co-housemates Divine Smith and Tin Patrimonio.

Slater is the first male Big Winner of the regular edition of the country’s most successful reality

show. He took home a P2-million cash prize, an appliance showcase, an Asian tour package, an Internet TV, a water-refilling store franchise, and a special appearance in a Kapamilya

program in the United States.

He was joined in the Big Four

by Pamu Pamorada, Joseph Biggel and Paco Evangelista who won first, second and third place respectively.

New romance still far from KC’s priority

A

lthough actress-singer KC Concepcion has agreed to go out on a dinner date with British singer Jules Knight, it doesn’t mean that she’s now ready to accept new suitors.

KC went out with Knight of the vocal group Blake, on March 27 after he surprised her by kneeling before her to invite her for dinner during the live telecast of “ASAP” on March 25.

The daughter of Megastar Sharon Cuneta stressed that she’s

not yet ready for a new romantic relationship. She said she hasn’t fully recovered yet from her much-publicized breakup with actor Piolo Pascual late last year.

For his part, the British singer said he had a great time with KC during their dinner date.

He said they got along very well.

He has all praises for KC’s beauty and personality.

According to Knight, he and his groupmates at Blake met Concepcion at a club six months ago.

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Currently, Knight and the rest of Blake are back in London. He said he hopes to spend time again with KC comes July when they return to the country to record a Christmas album.

April 5 - 20, 2012

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

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Filipino Journal 19

20 Filipino Journal

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

April 5 - 20, 2012

Winnipeg Jets Report

By Ron Cantiveros Photos by Rob Buenaventura

Jets playoff dreams dashed in inaugural season

M

arch madness was not so kind to the Winnipeg Jets. In the last game of the month against the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Winnipeg Jets were officially eliminated from playoff contention in a 3-2 OT loss.

Lightning forward Steve Stamkos buried his NHL-leading 56th goal to give the Bolts the victory. The loss puts the Winnipeg Jets in 10th place in the Eastern Conference and well behind the Buffalo Sabres and Washington Capitals who are still battling for the final playoff position.

In "must win" games at The MTS Centre against the Senators and the Rangers, the Winnipeg Jets failed to preserve thier strong home record and lost both games and saw their playoff chances dwindle to single digit percentages.

The Jets captain, Andrew Ladd had the following to say after that loss, "Our expectations were to be in the playoffs, and not being able to accomplish that goal is disappointing. So it’s our job to work to get better, to learn from what happened this year and make sure that doesn’t happen next year."

“In our minds it does (feel like the season is a failure). I feel we had the group in here to get in the playoffs, and I’m sure everyone else did too. Long term we’re trying to build something that’s gonna be able to contend every year. That takes time, too, but that doesn’t make it any easier.�

On a more positive note, the Jets were able to get a five out of six possible points in their games against the Hurricanes, Lightning and the Panthers with three overtime games. The two wins against Carolina and Florida.

As a fan of the Winnipeg Jets for it's inaugural 2011-12 season, I'm happy to see that we have hockey back in Winnipeg and hopeful that our team will make the necessary changes to become a playoff contender next year. The team returns to the comfortable confines of the MTS Centre on Saturday, April 7th for thier final game of the season for a rematch against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

The only Canadian teams that will make the playoffs are the Ottawa Senators and the Vancouver Canucks.

Zach Bogosian lays a huge bodycheck on Andreas Nodl.

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Photos by Rob Buenaventura | Filipino Journal

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SPCFSU TPODPM

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22

Filipino Journal

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

by aLfie vera mella elfideas102@yahoo.com

Mga Katropa, Meron Na Naman Tayong Bisita

(On Spending Time with Some Philippine Rock Artists, part 3)

I

n our recent nearly one-month vacation in the Philippines, my former band Half Life Half Death had a successful grand reunion concert held on February 3, 2012, at a venue in Pasig City, Metro Manila, called Club Phi at Metrowalk. Prior to that event, we performed also a number of promotional shows at various places as well as guested on two radio shows—Dig Radio and 88.3 Jam FM Radio.

Reuniting my former band for a series of shows was a part of my agenda for our trip to the Philippines, and I was able to achieve this because of hard work, coordination, and ultimately using all the necessary resources and support available.

Significantly helpful also was the fact that Half Life Half Death was one of the pioneers of Philippine Alternative Rock music—having formed in 1988, peaked in the mid-’90s during the commercial boom of Alternative Rock music, released a solo album in 1995 on Viva Records, and gigged prolifically albeit on-and-off until my departure 2003, niching for us a place in the pantheon of Philippine Alternative Rock bands. All these enabled us to produce a number of

shows during the vacation, with the assistance of and collaboration with many friends and acquaintances in the music scene—particularly Monx Moncayao and Jonas Brizuela of Requiem Rising Productions (based in Singapore), Clementine Castro and Antonette Maniquis of Lilystars Records of the Philippines, Sazi Cosino of Sazi’s Bar, DJ George Frederick Gabales of DWXB 102.7, DJ “Doctor” Ramon Zialcita and DJ “Ghost” Manolet Rodrigo of DWLA 105.9, and Cookie Chua of Color It Red.

Route 196 (Katipunan Ave. Extension, Blue Ridge A, Quezon City). The first promotional gig that we had was on January 26, at a bar called Route 196, where we performed with fellow New Wave / Indie Pop bands The Camerawalls, The Gentle Isolation, and Your Imaginary Friends—the same bands that opened for us at our grand reunion concert.

Sazi’s Bar (Espana Ave., Manila).

Next was on January 28, at Sazi’s Bar (formerly Mayric’s), where we headlined the event “Back to the Edge: Tribute to DWLA 105,” joined by a number of fellow 1990s-active Alternative Rock bands that included Philippine Violators and The Youth.

I co-organized this concert with my bandmate Aldrin Cardona and the bar’s owner Sazi Cosino. LA 105.9 was a now-defunct Philippine FM Dig Radio (Guijo St., Makati City). radio station that gave us and many On January 28, I with Inna and other Philippine Alternative Rock Jonas Brizuela of Requiem Rising bands regular airplay in the mid-’90s.

Productions were assisted by Vin Dancel and then interviewed by Jason Tiendesitas (E. Rodriguez Jr. Ave., Caballa and Evee Kae Simon at Dig Pasig City). Weeks prior to our trip Radio at the online radio station’s to the Philippines, I contacted Cookie headquarters. Dancel and Caballa Chua, the vocalist of Color It Red, to were both members of the Philippine ask her if we could perform at any bands Twisted Halo and Peryodiko, of their gigs to promote our reunion and then Caballa is currently with the concert. She said yes, and so we set band Pedicab.

The Gigs and the Guestings Hard Rock Café Makati (Ayala Center, Makati City). Kudos Loves Eighties is the ultimate ’80s New Wave tribute band in the Philippines because, as far as I knew, they are the only showband that dishes out covers of both popular and obscure New Wave songs. Inna and I watched them perform live on January 24 at Hard Rock Café Makati. Prior to that, the band’s vocalist, Richard Soto, had invited me to jam with them so I could promote our reunion concert, and so I did.

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April 5 - 20, 2012 the date: January 30 at Tiendesitas, a commercial complex that featured live bands, where Color It Red played regularly.

Gweilo’s Bar (Palanca St., Makati City). Clementine Castro of The Camerawalls invited us to perform an acoustic set at one of his band’s regular gigs at Gweilo’s Bar. On February 1 we performed as the Half Life Trio—HLHD lead guitarist Rain Paggao on acoustic guitar, haLf man haLf eLf’s violinist Christine Mazur (who joined me and my family on our Philippine vacation) on the violin, and me on vocals and bellkit.

Focusing on the Musical Accomplishments…

(To be continued in the next issue)

April 5 - 20, 2012

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

Filipinos still subscribe to Holy Week superstitions

T

he Catholic Church has long frowned on superstitions yet the observance of the Lenten season in the Philippines still abounds with superstition.

Thus, Filipinos observe Lent with religious devotion in combination with superstition and even paganistic practices.

One of the more famous beliefs is that anyone who bathes on Good Friday will be afflicted with some kind of sickness; or if you cut yourself on Good Friday, the wound will take a long time to heal.

Other superstitions and folk practice during Holy Week include looking for medicinal herbs and hunting for amulet in

forests and mountains on Good Friday; placing a palm blessed on Palm Sunday by a door or window to keep away demons and evil spirits; the use of bladed weapons

or instrument on Good Friday and Holy Saturday will bring about misfortune; and the belief that the rain on Easter Sunday is holy water and has healing powers.

Filipino Journal 23

Marcus and Gwen’s Double Celebration

Glenda and James celebrate the 2nd Birthday of their son Marcus and the Christening of their daughter Gwen on March 10, 2012, with family and friends.

Aquino attends ASEAN Meeting in Cambodia

P

resident Benigno S. Aquino III is set to arrive in Phnom Penh, Cambodia to attend the 20th Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits with the theme “One Community, One Destiny.”

Aquino is accompanied by Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo, Social Welfare Secretary Corazon Soliman, Transportation Secretary Mar Roxas, Mindanao Development Authority chair Luwalhati Antonino, and Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda.

Upon arrival, the Philippine delegation along with nine other ASEAN leaders will attend the welcome dinner hosted by Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Padei

Techo Hun Sen, chairman of the 20th ASEAN Summit and Luk Chumteav Kattiprithbendit Bun Ray Hun Sen. Assistant Secretary for ASEAN Affairs Teresita Barsana said the President will continue to promote the country’s interest in the West Philippine Sea. He will also raise the issue in terms of the implementation of the Code of Conduct of State Parties in the South China Sea by citing the

Manila’s insistence to establish a “zone of peace, friendship, freedom and cooperation (ZoPFFC)” in the disputed islands.

The North Korea’s rocket launch will also be part of the President’s agenda. including the promotion of climate change and disaster risk reduction management, migrant workers’ protection and welfare, and micro, small and medium enterprises..

• Consolidate your debt • Reduce or eliminate interest costs • Stop collection calls • Avoid bankruptcy

TP holds Summer drama workshop for kids

T

he Tanghalang Pilipino (TP) is set to hold its annual summer acting workshop starting on April 10.

Using games, storytelling, movements, music and props as tools of expression to learn creative dramatics, children aged five to eight years old may enroll in Children’s Dramatic Theater 1 while the nine to 12-year-olds may enroll in Children’s Dramatics 2

Helping Manitobans Get Out of Debt

TP also offers a course on Musical Teen Theater for teenagers, which integrates creative drama, music, writing, movement and visual arts, and script analysis and voice for theater.

For 17 years old and above, In Beginning Acting features a practical application of the rudiments of acting including concentration, spontaneity, improvisation, confidence, body and

voice preparation, characterization and script analysis to create a unique and authentic life onstage, television and film.

The workshop speakers include veteran screen and stage actors such as Shamaine Centenera-Buencamino, Irma Adlawan-Marasigan, Antony Buencamino, Dr. Grace Evangelista and Dr. Letty Ho. Those interested may call 8323661.

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April 5 - 20, 2012

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

Horoscope This month your focus would be on to your children and married life. You will have energy and stamina to complete your task and on whole if hard work is done with sincerity and commitment this month will be generally be favorable.

You may have a difficult time getting a grip on the new way forward. With so many changes, you may have lost sight of the reasons for your actions. Rather than go further a field to find the answers, taking a step back and reflecting on recent events will give you clarity.

The sentimental availability will be very big in April 2012, the interest in the couple life more obvious; at the same time, your partner might demand more attention.

If you’re a woman, the interest in pregnancy or children will grow. In case you’re interested, fertility seems to be better in April than in other periods.

You will have a lot of luck and happiness. You will want to distinguish yourself from other people by a new attitude to life. You will be attracted by an unusual person, whose charm will bewitch you.

An arrangement you had with a friend may cause tension mid month as circumstances have changed. An honest conversation is in order to put any misunderstandings at rest, especially if money is involved. Clearing up any debts, or at least making the effort to, will go a long way in preserving your friendship.

You’ll have the opportunity to put into practice some changes you’ve been thinking about for some time. Also in the second part of the month there will be a re-launch of your initiative, efficiency and work capacity.

April will be an excellent month for initiative and procedures.

You’ll be resourceful, and you’ll have the energy to put your ideas into practice. Intellectual preoccupations, editing, speeches, presentations, negotiations and interviews can bring you satisfactions.

You would be able to create something original, novel, singular. You will have unexpected good fortune and lucky opportunities. You will try hard to put your ideas into operation.

Although certain aspects of your life could do with improvement, you’ll still manage to find enough time to fulfill a creative pursuit. You need something to take your mind off any stressful situations in the periphery. A romantic connection could have a lot to do with the smile on your face.

You’ll be in a very good shape in April. You might have to cope with some stress, but for your optimistic and adrenalineprone nature, stress might even serve as a stimulant.

You’ll have high morale in April and this is great. However, you should pay more attention to the needs of the body and your health in general.

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Galloon: daglat Puksain Numero sa baraha Wika Gitata Bulate Pato Venus de ___ Apuyan Patong

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Ligtas Naga Inilalako sa gabi Iladlad Kung Habi Animo Sabi niya Uri ng isda Sumbrero: Ingles Iwas I

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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!

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

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April 5 - 20, 2012

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

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April 5 - 20, 2012

April 5 - 20, 2012

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ADVERTISE in the

Filipino Journal AND FEEL THE WARMTH OF THE UNIQUE FILIPINO CULTURE IN CANADA! NOW SERVING ALBERTA - EDMONTON, CALGARY, RED DEER, FORT MCMURRAY, MEDICINE HAT, GRAND PRAIRIE and NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

WINNIPEG

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Winnipeg!

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta!

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.

With a unique message that will attract readers and consumers. Advertising your products and services is one of the most strategic business decisions you can make.

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Filipino Journal 29

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 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; building and managing effective Facebook presences; Twitter Services â&#x20AC;&#x201C; using Twitter the right way.

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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.

FJ

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

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My Ride Ron Cantiveros

2012 Fiat 500: Amazing little car with classic retro style and seduction

I

was excited about driving this car a week before I was to sit in the driver’s seat.

The first glimpse at the new 500 Fiat was during the Superbowl when a commercial for the Fiat 500 Abarth aired. It featured a hot Romanian model, Catrinel Menghia and spoke Italian quite seductively. Me being a guy, on Superbowl weekend, that’s all that mattered. Oh, she was also wearing a black and red summer dress. Pretty hot!

A week after the Superbowl when I picked up the Fiat 500, I was disappointed to find out that the car didn’t come standard with hot Romanian Italian-speaking models. Regardless, I was about to drive one of the smallest cars on the market and looking forward to taking this amazing little car through its paces during our mild Winnipeg winter.

If there’s one thing I can say about the Fiat 500 is that you will never have a problem finding a parking spot. This car is so compact that you can park almost

anywhere. It’s peppy, quick, easy to drive and easy to park. I did say preppy and that’s largely due to the 1.4L inline 4-cyl 101hp engine. It’s definitely a fun, little car to drive through the city.

Driving on the highway is just as enjoyable and knowing when to downshift using the manual transmission added a little power to the driving experience.

As gas prices continue to climb, the best feature about the Fiat 500 is fuel economy. You can drive and drive and drive and somehow, the gas gauge is still stuck at full. Fuel economy is rated at 5.1L/100kms.

Attaching my iPad or iPod Touch to the audio system was simple and listening to my playlist on the Bose Premium sound system was one of my favorite features. Siruis Satellite Radio is also an available option.

Seating is comfortable and lots of available headroom especially for taller drivers.

Seating in the back, is a different story and not a lot of space unless

you’re a kid. The Fiat 500 is not especially designed for hockey players in mind. The trunk with rear 50-50 split folding seats was still not able to accommodate my hockey bag. I had to move the front passenger seat up slightly to accommodate it.

The Fiat 500 is available in several trim models starting with the Pop trim at $13,495, Sport trim at $16,000, and Lounge trim at $17,000. The Fiat 500 Abarth which comes with a 1.4-litre turbocharged 160-horsepower Multiair engine starts at $23,995.

Compared to other vehicles in the same class, the Fiat 500 has

April 5 - 20, 2012

very agressive pricing. Main Accent, Scion iQ, Toyota Yaris, competition in this class include Mazda 2, Honda Fit, Chevrolet the Kia Rio, Ford Fiesta, Nissan Aveo and the MINI Roadster.

Versa, VW Bettle, Hyundai

2012 Super Bowl Commercial - Seduction.

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