Filipino Journal, Manitoba Edition May 05 - 20, 2024

JETS FANS SHINE BRIGHT

Photo by Danny Truong | Filipino Journal

The MAFTI Rondalla: A Story Reborn

By: Ronald Mervin Sison

Genesis

The MAFTI – Manitoba Association of Filipino Teachers initiated Filipino classes in 1977, and after seven years of Saturday classes then MAFTI president Rosalinda Cantiveros initiated The MAFTI Rondalla in her term between 1984-1986. The goal was to help integrate music with the teaching of the Filipino language. The first Rodalla coordinator was Leonnie Bailon and the first public debut in concert was in December 1989. There were challenges in the early years particularly the lack of instruments for prospective students, but she with the help of the next MAFTI president Cory Juan kept things going.

In the early 1990’s major funding from the province was secured and under Gemma Dalayoan’s term more instruments were procured. The hiring of an experienced rondalla instructor and Music Director Eva Mendez helped the MAFTI Rondalla flourish under the next MAFTI presidents Julie Esteban and Letty Arenal. The second major concert was in the spring of 1992. After Leonnie the next MAFTI Rondalla coordinators were Molet Mejos and Rose Falgui, and with the help of instructors Mr. Feliciano de Jesus, Hygeia dela Cruz and Mrs. Gregoria “Gory” Parado the MAFTI Rondalla continued to flourish. There were many concerts and performances through the decades: Folklorama, at The Bay, in Assiniboia Downs, even an invitation to Saskatoon for a three-day Saskatoon Summer Fair in 1993, and the many appearances in local festivals and events in the Filipino community. And in 2014 then MAFTI president Bernadette Agpalza also started a Monday evening rondalla class at Grant Park High School which was open to the high school students who wanted to learn the banduria, laud, and octavina.

Over the years the pioneers had gradually come and gone, slowly fading away with time as did the MAFTI Rondalla’s active

visibility, but Mrs. Gory Parado remains as one of these revered pioneer legends still in our community.

Rebirth

In 2022 Genalyn Tan, the Past President of the MAFTI and it’s then Board of Directors stated that it is MAFTI's dream to recreate the MAFTI Rondalla and to hold a concert to help promote the appreciation of Filipino heritage, culture, and arts through music. To make this happen, as in its genesis, MAFTI needed funding to buy new instruments. An application was submitted by Genalyn Tan to the Province of Manitoba in 2023 under the Arts, Culture, and Sport in Community grant category and a $25,000 grant was awarded by the Province of Manitoba. This grant was used to commission the production of new instruments that were purchased and shipped from the Philippines and arrived in Winnipeg in the winter of 2023.

Genalyn Tan had initially envisioned the “MAFTI Rondalla Concert: A Gift of Cultural Heritage”, and with the arrival of the new instruments rehearsals started in January 2024 with old and new members, and volunteers coming together to create the new MAFTI Rondalla. She said "As MAFTI is celebrating its 45th milestone in the community, there is no better way to celebrate than to come together and appreciate the things that make us who we are – our culture and heritage." And the MAFTI Rondalla concert is an opportunity for us to celebrate this.

The much-anticipated MAFTI Rondalla is scheduled to be held on 30 November 2024 with two shows – a matinee and evening gala, and the concert will be FREE for everyone to enjoy. The instruments to be showcased will be string instruments like the bandurria, laud, octavina, double bass guitar; as well as some performances in piano and violin. There will be song and dance numbers from the most talented community members as well.

The current MAFTI President and Promotional Manager is Mary Jane Napolitano, and Genalyn Tan is the Lead Project Director. Jasmin Masangcay is the Technical Coordinator and Girlie Lozada is the MAFTI Rondalla Coordinator. The Musical Director is Marverick Hermaiz and the Concert Director is Ronald Mervin

Sison. MAFTI Officers and members will be playing a supporting role in the concert. With this new era the MAFTI Rondalla celebrates the honored heritage of old and the spirit of the new, like a phoenix reborn from its ashes preparing to spread its wings to soar once more, and soar we will! We look forward to seeing you all in November.

Photos by: Mervin Sison

Asian Heritage Month Act

May is Asian Heritage Month

Asian Heritage Month is an opportunity for us to learn more about the diverse culture and history of Asian communities in Canada, as well as to acknowledge the many achievements and contributions of people of Asian origin who, throughout our history, have done so much to make Canada the country we know and love.

The theme for Asian Heritage Month 2024 is “Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future: Amplifying Asian Canadian Legacy”. This theme celebrates the rich heritage and contributions of people of Asian origin in Canada while also looking forward to the future with optimism and hopefulness. We are acknowledging the voices, stories, and achievements of people of Asian origin in Canada and recognizing their contributions to all aspects of our society, including the arts, sports and social justice.

Photos submitted by Jackson Duong more photos on page 5 ►

Photos submitted by Jackson Duong

Photos from PC Caucus

WHITEOUT: JETS FANS SHINE BRIGHT

For die-hard Jets fans, the spirit of the White Out never wavered even after the Game 5 loss to the Colorado Avalanche and officially eliminated from the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Undeterred by the early exit, the community rallied together to host not one, not two, but three epic White Out parties. Decked out in their finest white attire, fans flooded the streets surrounding Canada Life Centre and True North Square.

The atmosphere was electric as fans shared stories of playoffs past and belted out chants of "Go Jets Go" with unwavering enthusiasm. It was a celebration of resilience and camaraderie, proving that the White Out spirit transcended wins and losses.

Rachel Punzalan cheering on the Jets during Game 2

Noreen Camungol Yuen from Game 1

Brenda Bourns with Dancing Gabe at Game 5

Leo Lacuna, Bernard Alibudbud, Ernest Lacuna taking in the game at True North Square.

Photo credits: Eric Labaupa

Party in the Plaza. Photo credits: Eric Labaupa

Robert Donato, Divine Labaupa, Deb Donato, Janis Surla, Jeremy, Justin Surla, and Jessica stuck around until the final horn when the Jets were eliminated from the playoffs.

Photo credits: Eric Labaupa

Chairmain Belda Winnipeg Whiteout

HEARD THE BUZZ?

Don’t miss the awesome animal double-feature on this summer at the Zoo! Get a bugs-eye view of the world at Xtreme Bugs presented by Steinbach Credit Union. Then head inside the Rotating Exhibit Gallery to see animals with serious skills at Defenses of the Animal Kingdom Both exhibits are included with Zoo admission.

WINNIPEG JETS PLAYOFF REPORT

The Winnipeg Jets' playoff journey concluded in a 6-3 loss to the Colorado Avalanche in Game 5 of the Western Conference First Round, marking their exit after a commendable season. As the No. 2 seed from the Central Division, Winnipeg showcased resilience and skill, tying for fourth in the regular season with 110 points, a testament to their competitive spirit.

Despite their strong defensive record during the regular season, with the league's lowest 199 goals allowed, the playoffs presented new challenges. The Avalanche's formidable offense broke through, demonstrating the depth and talent across their lineup. Key contributors like Nathan MacKinnon, Mikko Rantanen, and Cale Makar each amassed nine points, highlighting areas for Winnipeg to fortify in future defensive strategies.

Special teams, a lingering

concern from the regular season, struggled under playoff pressure. The Jets managed a 62.5 percent success rate on the penalty kill and converted only three power-play opportunities from 13 attempts. These moments were learning experiences that underscored the importance of consistent special teams performance throughout the season.

Offensively, the Jets had moments of brilliance but needed more consistent contributions from their top players. The first line dazzled with a combined eight points in a thrilling 7-6 victory in Game 1 but found it challenging to maintain that momentum. The mid-season acquisitions of Sean Monahan and Tyler Toffoli, meant to bolster the Jets' scoring depth, provided glimpses of potential that will be crucial to harness moving forward.

Goalie Connor Hellebuyck, a Vezina Trophy finalist, faced an

uncharacteristically tough series, which serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of playoff hockey and the heavy demands placed on a leading netminder. His regularseason accolades, including a topfive ranking in several goaltending categories, illustrate his undeniable

talent and the foundational role he plays for the team.

Reflecting on the series, the Jets can take pride in their achievements and the lessons learned from facing a high-caliber opponent like Colorado.

This postseason run has provided valuable insights that will fuel

their strategic planning and roster adjustments during the offseason. By addressing key areas and building on their core strengths, the Winnipeg Jets are well-positioned for future success, aiming to return stronger and more prepared for the challenges of playoff hockey.

Jets celebrating and waving flags during opening Game 1 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

On-ice action during Game 2 of the opening round between the Winnipeg Jets and Colorado Avalanche.

Photo by Star Roxas

Lorenzo Cantiveros brings his "My First Whiteout Go Jets Go" sign to the Game 1 between the Winnipeg Jets and Colorado Avalanche at Canada Life Centre.

Photo by Mike Macaraeg | Filipino Journal

White Out at Canada Life Centre for Game 1 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

President Marcos Advocates Culinary Tourism to Boost Philippines' Global Appeal

President Marcos champions culinary tourism as a means to enhance the Philippines' allure to international visitors. In his recent vlog titled "Chibog," uploaded on his YouTube channel, he emphasized the potential of Filipino cuisine to captivate global audiences.

Acknowledging the worldwide recognition of Filipino dishes like sinigang, Marcos highlighted their pivotal role in elevating the country's gastronomic reputation. He also highlighted regional specialties such as bagnet and Ilocos empanada, expressing his belief in their deservingness of Michelin recognition.

Encouraging support for local food enterprises, particularly from overseas Filipino workers, Marcos urged them to introduce Filipino cuisine to foreigners and entice them to visit the Philippines. He

emphasized the profound impact of good food in enriching cultural experiences.

The Department of Tourism aligns with Marcos's vision, prioritizing culinary tourism to enrich the country's tourism offerings. Marcos concluded by soliciting suggestions from viewers for his next food adventure, expressing interest in trying popular street foods like pares.

In a recent social media post, Marcos shared moments of culinary delight with his wife, enjoying Jollibee classics, further emphasizing his advocacy for Filipino cuisine.

DepEd Recommends Indoor End-of-School Ceremonies Amid Rising Temperatures

The Department of Education (DepEd) has issued a directive advising schools nationwide to conduct their end-of-school-year (EOSY) ceremonies, including graduations and moving-up rites, indoors due to anticipated continued extreme heat this month.

DepEd Memorandum No. 023 Series of 2024, released on May 2, stipulates that all EOSY ceremonies for the 2023-2024 school year should take place between May 29 and 31. The memorandum emphasizes the importance of ensuring the safety of students, teachers, and attendees by holding these events indoors or in covered venues with proper ventilation to avoid exposure to excessive sunlight.

Furthermore, schools are urged to schedule ceremonies during times of the day when temperatures are not at their peak. DepEd emphasizes the need for simplicity and meaning in these ceremonies, discouraging excessive spending, extravagant attire, or extravagant venues.

The directive also clarifies that non-academic activities such as field trips and promenades should not be mandatory or tied to graduation requirements. Additionally, DepEd prohibits any form of collection of contributions or fees for graduation

ceremonies by its personnel.

The theme for the EOSY rites for the SY 20232024 is "Kabataang Pilipino Para sa Matatag na Kinabukasan ng Bagong Pilipinas (Filipino youth for a stronger future of the new Philippines)."

DepEd also confirms that EOSY ceremonies may include students from kindergarten, Grade 6, Grade 10, Grade 12, and Alternative Learning System who have met curriculum requirements by the end of SY 2023-2024.

The adjustment of the school calendar, with SY 2023-2024 ending on May 31, was made via DepEd Order No. 3, s. 2024, with SY 2024-2025 slated to begin on July 29, 2024, and end on May 16, 2025.

DepEd's move towards the traditional academic calendar, with classes from June to March and vacation from April to May, is prompted by recent suspensions of onsite classes due to extreme heat. The agency aims for full return to the old academic calendar by SY 20262027, although adjustments may be made based on feedback from lawmakers and education stakeholders.

Provincial Action Plans Launched by 10 Provinces Along West Philippine Sea Coastline

The 10 provinces bordering the West Philippine Sea are set to unveil provincial action plans this month in support of the national government's efforts amid tensions in the area, as confirmed by a Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) official.

Lilian de Leon, DILG Assistant Secretary for international relations, disclosed that provinces including Pangasinan, La Union, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Batanes, Bataan, Zambales, Batangas, Palawan, and Occidental Mindoro have formulated their respective strategies concerning the West Philippine Sea.

De Leon emphasized that the launch of these provincial action plans, beginning in May 2024, aims to implement, operationalize, and institutionalize agreements established during the inaugural National Summit for

the West Philippine Sea. The summit's objective is to bolster local leadership, governance, and community empowerment. Provincial initiatives range from enhancing maritime security and safety to addressing illegal fishing and marine pollution. Notable efforts include capacitating fish wardens, deploying volunteer sea patrols, delineating municipal water boundaries, and establishing protected marine areas.

The consensus reached during the summit underscores the importance of empowering local governments and stakeholders to address various challenges, including food security, livelihood, and environmental preservation. Over 500 officials from 115 municipalities and nine cities in the 10 provinces, alongside civil society groups and academic members, participated in the summit.

OMNI Scholarship Program

Calling all journalism students – OMNI Television has launched its OMNI Scholarship program for 2024. These scholarships are open to all eligible students pursuing post secondary studies in a journalism-related field and who are interested in ethnic and third-language journalism. OMNI will award 10 scholarships of $2,000 CAD each this Fall. Deadline to submit is no later than 1:00 PM EST, Wednesday, May 15, 2024. For more information and to submit an online application, visit https:// portal.scholarshippartners.ca/welcome/omnitv_EN/

OMNI is home to daily national newscasts, a variety of locally produced current affairs programs, broadcast in 6 languages, and airs popular entertainment shows from around the globe. OMNI supports journalism students interested in providing news and information to Canadians in the languages they understand.

To learn more about OMNI scholarships, visit www.omnitv.ca/ scholarships or www.omnitv.ca/bourses

Photo by Handout / Philippine Coast Guard / AFP

Facebook / Bongbong Marcos

photo taken by The Philippine STAR’s Walter Bollozos

Bea Alonzo files cyber libel charges against Ogie Diaz, Cristy Fermin

Actress Bea Alonzo has filed three Cyber Libel cases against showbiz columnists Cristy Fermin and Ogie Diaz, alongside their co-hosts, for allegedly spreading false and damaging information. Alonzo, represented by her lawyer Joey Garcia and manager Shirley Kuan, submitted the complaints at the Quezon City Prosecutor's Office. She claims to have been victimized by malicious content discussed on Diaz and Fermin's online channels. Fermin, responding on her program "Cristy Ferminute," defended her role as an entertainment reporter, asserting her vlog's broader coverage and urging Alonzo not to be overly sensitive. Meanwhile, Ogie Diaz, addressing the charges on Instagram, promised a response in due time and expressed hopes for Alonzo's reconciliation with ex-boyfriend Dominic Roque.

Manny Jacinto Joins Star Wars Series 'The Acolyte'

Filipino-Canadian actor Manny Jacinto is set to star in the upcoming Star Wars series "The Acolyte." Released during the fourth of May weekend, the series serves as a prequel to the iconic Skywalker saga. Jacinto takes on the role of Qimir, a former smuggler, alongside a starstudded cast including Korean actor Lee Jung-jae as Jedi master Sol, Amandla Stenberg as warrior Mae, and Dafne Keen as Sol's apprentice. The trailer also hints at the appearance of Carrie-Anne Moss from "The Matrix" as Jedi master Indara. "The Acolyte" is scheduled to premiere with two episodes on June 4, exclusively on Disney+.

Yen Santos Sparks Speculation by Deleting Post About Paolo Contis

Speculation arises as actress Yen Santos removes her birthday post dedicated to boyfriend Paolo Contis, catching the attention of observant social media users. The move, coupled with Santos's lack of new Instagram follows and a diminished post count, has fueled rumors of a potential rift between the couple. While Santos remains inactive on social media regarding Contis, he continues to follow her account, indicating a divergence in their online presence.

Contis previously affirmed their relationship status during a guesting on "Fast Talk With Boy Abunda," dispelling rumors of involvement with another individual. He attributed viral videos involving Arra San Agustin to malicious editing, reaffirming his commitment to Santos in January 2023.

(Photo by Jeff Spicer/Jeff Spicer/Getty Images for Disney)

(Photo source: Yen Santos Instagram @ysantos

Images courtesy of Instagram: nelsoncanlas

Filipino Seniors Group of Winnipeg induction

L-R: Bhoy Barrion, Bobbit Nepomuceno, Ely Albao, Alex Ramos, Quenie Mante (Auditor), Sabina "Bing" Barcolta, Mary Grace Feliciano (Asst. Treasurer), Clarissa Calingasan (Emcee), Aida Champagne (Treasurer), Atty. Rachel Punzalan (Inducting Officer), Jun Isla (President), Emil Feliciano (Vice President), Kelly Legaspi (Secretary), Angelica Ilagan (Asst. Secretary), Fred Ilagan, Gina Barrion, Alen Basco, Vicky Basco, Anna Albao, Emma Hibi, Rachiel Comia, and Mike DesChamp

Photo credits: Lee Angela Igne

Ultimate New Wave Evolution

(& closely related styles) part 60

As an enthusiast of New Wave music in all its permutations, I have the softest spot for two of its styles--the Sophistipop ballads, because they touch the hopeful romantic in me; and the dark and gloomy Gothic stompers, for they help expunge my depressive tendencies and inner turmoil.

This set consists of albums whose theme and especially musicality may be associated with the latter--dark, doomy, depressing but divine and delightful.

* Gene Loves Jezebel - Immigrant (1985) ("Worth Waiting For")

* The Sisters of Mercy - Floodland (1987) ("This Corrosion")

* Killing Joke - Brighter than a Thousand Suns (1986) ("Adorations")

* The Essence - Ecstasy (1988) ("Only for You")

* Virgin Prunes - If I Die, I Die (1982) ("Sweethome under White Clouds")

* Indochine - 3 (1985) ("A L'Assaut [Des Ombres Sur L'O]")

* New Model Army - Thunder & Consolation (1989) ("White Coats")

* Xmal Deutschland - Devils (1989) ("I'll Be Near You")

Sa Úgoy ng Músika

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

With summer a couple months away, you’re tempted to spoil yourself with some luxury items when Venus enters Taurus and your value zone on Monday. This is a great time to invest in new clothes and important relationships. Just make sure this love is more than just material.

In the heart of spring, you’re ready to come out of your shell when Venus enters Taurus and your social zone on Monday. This is a great time to be social, spend time with friends, and make new ones. Consider making some tech purchases now too.

Your professional life will be in bloom over the next few weeks once Venus enters Taurus and your reputation zone on Monday. This is a great time to develop your public image by networking, taking headshots, and shifting your ambition to the next level. Good luck!

End April with some self-love as you take a time-out from your social life when Venus enters Taurus and your subconscious zone on Monday. It’s time to check in with yourself in this period of solitude. Focus on healing your heart and dreaming new dreams so you can move on.

Spring can be a sensual time, and you’re ready to get intimate when Venus enters Taurus and your intimacy zone on Monday. Love can truly bloom over the next few weeks, making it an ideal time to take a relationship to the next level and you get to know someone mentally, emotionally, and physically.

The heart of spring allows love to bloom over the next few weeks once Venus enters Taurus and your partnership zone on Monday. This isn’t going to be another fling, because you’re ready to commit yourself to a steady relationship. Build something solid and steady together, Scorpio.

Spring is a time of improvement, and you’re ready to give yourself a much needed glow-up when Venus enters Taurus and your habit zone on Monday. This is a great time to work on a new beauty or health routine, feel productive in the workplace, and develop better habits.

Spring fling season is here and you’re more than ready to have some fun when Venus enters Taurus and your pleasure zone on Monday. Over the next few weeks, this is a great time for passions of all kinds, from creative projects to love affairs. Allow yourself plenty of leisure time, Capricorn.

You’ll be a hopeless romantic over the next few weeks once Venus enters Taurus and your home zone on Monday. You are longing for romance, but you could be getting your fix from reading spicy books or watching rom-coms. Put

"Otherwordly", THE BADLANDS, South Dakota, USA

Magnificent vistas and awesome landscapes await nature lovers and other visitors in The Badlands lying in southwestern State of South Dakota, USA, near the Black Hills. Spanning 244,000 acres , The Badlands National Park is the largest expanse of a rough barren wilderness and an undisturbed mixed-grass prarie ecosystem in the United States and perhaps in the whole world. Native American Indians gave it a name that meant "the badlands". calling the land "maco sica" (mah-koh seekah). This has been translated into "badlands" because of its extreme temperatures, low amount of water and rocky terrain. Some of the European explorers came up with the same name; French traders called the place a "bad land to travel".

It is said that "the wind is crying here, in this savage landscape, sobbing and whinning like a forlorn child. It is the most prevalent sound , rustling up the arid gulches through the prarie grasses". Coming here

by Gem and Lita Anis

you can gaze, without obstructions, seeing no sign of civilization, at mile after mile of deep gorges and jagged ravines, sharp ridges, steep walled canyons, gullies, rock pyramids, massive buttes and pointed knobs.

We stopped at the first scenic overlook that we encountered and got out of our car for a photo stop in front of THE BIG BADLANDS sign that reads: Muddy mountain streams dropped their loads of soil and gravel to form a huge flood plain here during the Oligocene Epoch 35 million years ago. Warm climate and abundant rainfall produced lush vegetation. Here strange animals lived, died and sank into the swamps to become buried by accumulating sediments. Centuries later rejuvenated rivers washed much of this material away forming huge valleys and deep canyons. Winds and rains continue to cut into this great plain exposing the most outstanding example of Oligocene deposits and Oligocene fossils and form these roughly hewn pinnacles, buttes and spires".

Early or late in the day maybe the best time too see The Badlands when deep shadows clearly and distinctly define or outline their forms. "Otherworldy" describes The Badlands in the evening when you can easily imagine yourself to be standing on the surface of the moon and looking back at Mother Earth out there in the stark darkness.

The marvels of The Badlands topography are not the region's only claim to fame. The park boasts the native wildlife of mammals that include bisons, the heaviest land mammals in North America, the black tailed prarie dogs, the nocturnal solitary black-footed ferrets, the pronghorns that are often mistaken for deers or antelopes but are closely similar to giraffes, the reptile prarie rattlesnakes, the amphibians (frogs, toads and salamanders), the coyotes, the bighorn sheeps, the birds like the swallows, blackbirds, cowbirds, and mourning doves, and the butterfly species of monarch butterflies.

The Badlands get "badder" every minute of day. Continuous erosion caused by rains, storms and winds gnaw at the sediments.

Keep on travelling in South Dakota, USA. Follow us at the Mitchell Corn Palace, at the Wall Drug, Dinosaur Park, Reptile Gardens, and at the beautiful Stavkirke Chapel in Rapid City.

Happy Asian Heritage Month

Jimmy at The Big Badlands

Lita & son, Omar, gazing at the rugged Badlands landscape