Filipino Journal Winnipeg Volume 24 Number 11

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June 5 - 20, 2010 • Volume 24, Number 11

Hawak Kamay at PCCM, Welcoming Bagong Dating

Winnipeg, Manitoba Publications Mail Agreement 40032612

It’s official: Aquino, Binay!

Page 2 ► PCCM and PHWC welcome Manitoba’s newest Filipinos.

Manny Pacquiao is world’s Fighter of the Decade

Munoz Screen Printing capture Pangasinan Basketball League Championship

Page 7 ► Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile (L) and House Speaker Prospero Nograles (R) raise the hands of vice-president elect Jejomar Binay (2nd L) and president-elect Benigno Simeon Aquino III. (2nd R) at the Batasan Pambansa plenary hall in Quezon City, June 9, 2010.

Page 15 ► Manny Pacquiao

Page 5 ► Munoz Screen Printing - Champion

Page 7 ►

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Filipino Journal

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

June 5 - 20, 2010

Bagong Dating program “Hawak Kamay” at PCCM offers centralized information for newcomers

Noel Cadelina, chairperson.

Cynthia Stewart, Coordinator of Settlement Information-Manitoba Labour and Immigration.

program

PHCM,Inc and PCCM, Inc.officials welcome the Bagong Dating family led by Lito Bautista. L-R: Rod E. Cantiveros, president, PCCM; Zorina Marzan Chang, president, Moncadenians ti Manitoba; Lito Bautista; Perla Javate, president, PHCM, Inc., the family, Julie Javier, pccm treasurer; and Noel Cadelina, chairperson, PCCM program committee.

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peaking on behalf of the Manitoba Labour and Immigration, Cynthia Stewart - Coordinator of Settlement Services highlighted key provincial services available to new immigrants, such as health and employment services.

Employment Services: Free employment services help newcomers prepare and look for jobs. They can advise you on skills upgrading, licensing, language training and other needs you may have in order to find work. Health: Agencies offer free health services specifically for immigrants, including dealing with emotional or mental issues from the challenges of starting a new life here.

This page also tells where to find a doctor and other medical help.

The “Hawak Kamay” (Working Together) program was a joint collaboration between PhilippineCanadian Centre of Manitoba and the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba.

PCCM

A Bagong Dating who told the story of his transition in Winnipeg.

The guests who attended the welcome Bagong Dating event.

Members of the Bagong Dating Committe.

Perla Javate, PHCM president and Liason Officer for the Filipino Community: School Division #1.

Photos by Ron Cantiveros | Filipino Journal

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Julie Javier, PCCM treasurer, welcomes the Bagong Dating.

Photos by Charles Cabiles | Filipino Journal

June 5 - 20, 2010

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

Kevin Chief wins Winnipeg North New Democrat nomination

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innipeg – Over 800 local residents selected Kevin Chief as the New Democratic Party of Canada’s candidate in Winnipeg North. The nomination meeting was held at R. B. Russell High School in the heart of Winnipeg’s North End. Chief is running to replace long-time New Democrat Member of Parliament Judy Wasylycia-Leis who resigned last month to seek election as the Mayor of Winnipeg.

Chief, 35, is a lifelong resident of Winnipeg North and is an educator, athlete and community leader. As the coordinator of the Innovative Learning Centre at the University of Winnipeg and Executive Director of the Winnipeg Aboriginal Sport Achievement Centre, Chief has made a name for himself as a leader committed to serving his community, especially young people.

The Prime Minister must announce a by-election date to fill the vacancy in the House of Commons by October 1, 2010.

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Filipino Journal

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

Filipino Journal Ron Cantiveros Publisher

aLfie vera mella Associate Editor

Rod Escobar Cantiveros Sales & Advertising

Rosalinda Linsangan Natividad-Cantiveros

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

www.FilipinoBrideAndGroom.com Published Annually

June 5 - 20, 2010

Published Quarterly

Derksen Printers (Steinbach, MB) Printers

Contributing Writers: Lucille Nolasco

Fran Avila-Anthony

RG (Bob) Gabuna Dr. Eusebio Koh Reis Pagtakhan

Joan Duhaylungsod

Mike Pagtakhan

Pastor Junie Josue

Ramon Toralba

Johnny Cantiveros

Perry Diaz

Paulo G. Ercia

Gem M. Anis

Ruwiz Mercado

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

Published by Molave Publishing Company, Inc. 46 Pincarrow Rd., Winnipeg, MB R3Y 1E3 •Tel: (204) 489-8894 Fax: (204) 489-1575 •info@filipinojournal.com •www.filipinojournal.com Publications Mail Agreement No. 40032612 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Molave Publishing Company, Inc. 46 Pincarrow Road, Winnipeg, MB R3Y 1E3

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June 5 - 20, 2010

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

Filipino Journal

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Munoz Screen Printing wins back-to-back championship over Sunny Day Pangasinan Group of Manitoba basketball league update Team Munoz wins back-to-back championship ends in last minute nail-biter. Munoz wins championship by three points over Team Sunny Day in championship Sunday at RB Russell. The third place game saw Young’s Trading beat Team QPAM.

Sunny Day - Second Place

Munoz Screen Printing - Champion

Youngs - Third Place

Munoz Silk Screen Printing

Sunny Day

Youngs

QPAM

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QPAM Inc. - Fourth Place

Photos by Ron Cantiveros | Filipino Journal

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Mga Puna ni Inna Makabayan, Makabansa, Makabayani, Makakalimutin

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aku, panibagong pagdiriwang na naman ng Philippine Independence.

Maraming Filipino na naman ang magwawagayway ng kanilang pagiging makabayan. Sa mga pagdiriwang na ang tema ay Kalayaan ng Pilipinas, dadagsa na naman ang mga nakasuot ng barong at baro’t saya. Pipilitin na naman ng ilan na hindi magsalita ng Inggles--wikang Filipino na lang daw muna--kahit mali-mali rin naman ang gamit ng balarila.

Ipagpipilitan ng maraming nakatatanda na ang pagmamano lang ang tanging paraan ng pagpapakita ng galang sa matatanda. Kailangan si Jose Rizal ang iyong isasagot kapag tinanong ka kung sino ang paborito mong bayani. Panay mga kundiman at mga awiting makabayan ang ipipilit na patugtugin sa radyo.

Pagkaing Filipino ang ihahanda sa bawat pagsasalo.

Pero teka--dyan nga ba makikita ang pagmamahal sa kulturang Filipino?

Kapag ginawa mo ang mga bagay na nabanggit ko, ibig bang sabihin

e mas Filipino ka kaysa ibang kababayan mo?

Ah basta ako, Araw ng Kalayaan man o hindi, ipinagmamalaki ko ang kultura ng Pilipinas at ng pangkalahatang Filipino. Ibig sabihin nito--alam ko na Filipino--hindi Tagalog-ang pambansang wika at wikang gamit ng maraming Filipino.

Alam ko na hindi lang Filipino ang wikang ginagamit ng mga Filipino--may Ilokano, Ilonggo, Bisaya, Bikolano, at iba-iba pang dayalekto. Alam ko na hindi lang barong at baro’t saya ang maaaring isuot para matawag kang Filipino; marami pang kasuotang Filipino na tubong Mindanao. Alam ko na hindi lang pagmamano ang paraan ng pagbibigay-galang. Para sa akin, isang matamis na ngiti at bukalsa-loob na pagbati ay sapat nang pagpapakita ng pagpapahalaga sa kapwa--bata man o matanda.

Alam ko na hindi lang si Jose Rizal ang maituturing na bayani ng mga Filipino. Alam ko na hindi lang dinuguan, menudo, at adobo ang pagkaing Filipino. Ultimo

Philippine News steak, hotdog, pancake, barbecue, at hamburger ay nabibilang na rin sa mga pagkaing Filipino. Alam ko na hindi lang kundiman at mga awiting may lirikong Filipino ang maituturing na musikang Filipino-kundi lahat ng likhang awit ng bawat musikero at kompositor na Filipino--Filipino o Inggles man ang ginamit niyang pananalita.

Kahit Rock pa yan o Disco, basta Filipino ang maylikha, kasama yan sa musikang Filipino.

Oo, maraming Filipino ang nagkakandarapang ipagsigawang sila ay makabayan, subalit hindi alam ang tunay na konsepto ng kultura. Akala nila e pulos tradisyonal at makaluma lang ang may karapatang matawag na kulturang Filipino. Aba, patuloy na lumalago ang kultura--kaya hindi dapat na maging barado ang iyong kaalaman. Matuto kang magsaliksik. Palawakin ang iyong isip. Huwag kang maging makitid.

Buksan ang iyong pang-unawa.

Kaya sa darating na Araw ng Kalayaan, wag ka nang magpanggap na makabayan kung hindi mo rin lang kayang intindihin ang tunay na konsepto ng kultura. Hindi porke suot mo ang inaalikabok mong barong o baro’t saya sa iyong pagdalo sa pagtitipon, e mas Filipino ka na sa mga nakabahag o naka-tuksido.

Ang tunay na Filipino ay siya na may malawak na pananaw at pag-intindi sa kultura--hindi ang mga may makikitid na utak at matatalas na dila.

June 5 - 20, 2010

Phivolcs raises alert level, warns public

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he Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has raised the second of a five-level alert on Taal volcano and advised the public and tourists against visiting the volcano’s crater especially the Daang Kastila trail.

Taal, located about 65 kilometers south of Manila, is one of the most active volcanoes in the country with 33 recorded eruptions.

Allan Loza, officer-in-charge of Phivolcs Talisay said volcanic quakes in the area have been occurring since April coupled

with the increase in temperature of the crater lake.

Meanwhile, the Regional Disaster Coordinating Council (RDCC) in Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) said it had alerted nine Batangas towns namely, Agoncillo, San Nicolas, Santa Teresita, Laurel, Lemery, Talisay, Tanauan City, Balete, and Mataas na Kahoy. after the alert level status of Taal volcano was raised.

Phivolcs reminds the public that the whole Taal Volcano Island is a permanent danger zone and permanent settlement within the area is strictly forbidden.

OPINIONS

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Philippine News

June 5 - 20, 2010

It’s official: Aquino, Binay!

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he Senate-House canvassing committee will proclaim Sen. Benigno Aquino III and Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay as presidentelect and vice president-elect, respectively, in joint session ceremonies at the Batasan complex beginning at 2 p.m. today.

Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri and Speaker Prospero Nograles said they both expect the majority of their colleagues to attend the historic occasion.

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The canvassing committee finally finished its tally after eight days with the votes from Lanao del Sur giving Aquino a lead of 5.7 million over his closest opponent, former President Joseph Estrada.

Binay similarly increased his margin over Sen. Mar Roxas to more than 700,000.

The final tabulations showed Aquino had 15,208,678 against Estrada’s 9,487,837, while Binay had 14,645,574 against Roxas’ 13,918,490.

Parents take a breather on tuition fee hike

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he Department of Education (DepEd) disclosed only less than 10 percent of the 9,995 private schools nationwide may increase their tuition this school year.

This was announced by DepEd Secretary Mona Valisno who said that private schools have generally heeded the appeal to temper their application for school fee increases considering the financial condition of many Filipino families. She added that since last year, there is a steady decrease in the application for tuition increase by private

elementary and secondary schools nationwide.

The DepEd has directed all field offices to closely monitor any increase being proposed by private schools in order to protect the interests of parents, students, and the general public.

Reports from various regional offices indicate that more than 90 percent of the private schools have not applied for tuition increase this school year. In Metro Manila, only 107 out of the 1,937 private elementary and secondary schools have applied for tuition increase.

In Central Visayas, it was also reported that less than 10 percent of all private schools have applied for tuition increase.

The Education Act of 1982 requires private schools to comply with the applicable DepEd Orders on the matter before any increase may be imposed. The main reason cited by private schools that applied for tuition increase was the need to increase teacher salaries, higher operating cost, and the need to upgrade facilities.

GMA a hard working chief executive, says Palace spokesman

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ith less than a month before she steps down from office, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is busy working on securing her legacy as a hard working chief executive, according to Deputy presidential spokesman Rogelio Peyuan Peyuan said Mrs. Arroyo wants to be remembered for her dedication to her job and should be considered one of the most hardworking presidents in the country’s history. He claimed that the President introduced a number of programs for further development of the country.

Some of her notable achievements during her nine years in office, according to Peyuan, include having visited almost every part of the country which gave most of the

Arroyo is one of the most hated and unpopular presidents the Philippines ever had, Malacañang officials believed that history would eventually vindicate her. Her officials said Mrs. Arroyo has planted the seeds of the country’s progress, the fruits of which would be harvested in the future. remote and inaccessible barangays electricity.

Mrs. Arroyo also takes pride in having the foresight to prepare the country in facing the global financial crisis. The Philippines managed to stay afloat amid the global recession due to sound economic policies and management under her administration, Peyuan said.

On the allegation that Mrs.

BSP chief’s brother, 2 others found dead

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security guard of a business establishment in Angeles City, Pampanga got the shock of his life when he found 3 dead men in a parked Ford Expedition in a vacant lot along Friendship Avenue this city.

Police investigators identified the victims as Rene Tetangco, 42, younger brother of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando Tetangco and uncle of Apalit, Pampanga Mayor Jun Tetangco; his friend businessman Florencio Yap, son of the owner of Yap Bun King Hardware; and Yap’s aide Dennis Guinto.

Investigators said Tetangco’s body was found in the van’s front passenger seat. Yap’s body was in the rear seat, while Guinto was curled on the floor of the back compartment.

The victims bore multiple gunshot wounds in the chest and head and

police theorized that they were shot elsewhere and the vehicle dumped in the area to mislead investigators.

The police said an acquaintance identified the victims as among those he usually played poker with at the King’s Poker Sports Club in this city.

Further investigation showed that Yap entered the Kings Poker Sport Club at about 9 p.m. last Tuesday followed

by Tetangco The video footage of the casino also showed some personalities also playing poker, including a certain Shin, a Korean and owner of the gambling den, and barangay captain Bong Ferraris of Barangay Cutud, Angeles City. Police said two other individuals who appeared to be Koreans have yet to be identified Investigators theorized that the killings could have been related to gambling.

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Filipino Journal

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

by aLfie vera mella elfideas102@yahoo.com

They Tell Me, Love, Prose Is More Precise But (A Tribute to Trinidad Tarrosa Subido)

“Ngayon, Ang tulog ay nakalilimot; At ang makalimot ay isinusumpa.”—Virgilio Almario, Peregrinasyon at Iba Pang Tula (1970, UP Press)

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dmittedly I have not been a big fan of Philippine authors and poets, not because I didn’t like them but mainly because English Literature and Greek Mythology were what my father and my mother had introduced to me as a child: the likes of Robert Browning, Lewis Carroll, Daniel Defoe, Walter Disney, Arthur Conan Doyle, O. Henry, Rudyard Kipling, Jonathan Swift, and even J.R.R. Tolkien—aside from the traditional Philippine myths and folktales that my father used to tell me and my sisters. Besides, back in the 1970s—an era more than two decades ago when the Internet was still unheard of—Jose Rizal and Francisco “Balagtas” Baltazar seemed to be the only Filipino literati many Filipinos knew.

Even in late high school, circa 1987, I still didn’t have the chance to explore the literary chest of the Philippines—for what caught my

included two poetry anthologies: Private Edition by Trinidad Tarrosa Subido and Sonnets from a Gardener

by Abelardo Subido. (Yes, they were a couple.) Their works have opened again my heart, rekindling my old, familiar yearning to plow the rich literary pasturage of home; and, most importantly, they inspired me to make love again with the Muses of poetry—my poetic pen was prolific yet again, a skill I somehow lost during the years I was heavily immersed in prose and scholastic writing as a part of my professional work as a book and magazine editor from the late 1990s until 2003 when I immigrated to Canada. (And this is another story.) Anyway…

As a tribute to Trinidad Tarrosa Subido (1912–1994), whose book Private Edition (Sonnets and Other Poems) (2002, Milestone Publications Inc.) came second to Almario’s Peregrinasyon as my favorite, I am sharing the particular verses that made their marks in my mind.

Tarrosa Subido—bold, sharp, and honest, considering the “conservative” Philippine era and society in which she lived her youth and indited her mind.

fancy during such academic years were, again, foreign writers and poets: e.e. cummings, Sigmund Freud, Carl Jung, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Danielle Steel, Og Mandino, and a lot of minor writers behind the book series Sweet Dreams and Sweet Valley High.

I was already in College when I discovered the contemporary Filipino poet Virgilio S. Almario, whose poetry anthology entitled Peregrinasyon at Iba Pang Tula singlehandedly inspired me to compile, in 1992, my first book of poetry entitled Pag-aalay ng Bulaklak sa mga Lumipas at Lilipas (Poems in Filipino, 1988–1992).

Captivated by Almario’s playful style in using the Filipino language in poetry, I tried to find other similar Filipino poets but in vain; perhaps because their works were elusive, from “Complaints”: hard-to-find—especially that the Internet was still unavailable to the My love, so near me on the grass— masses.

What cowardice!

Dares not to melt his mouth upon So, to foreign literary treasures My waiting kiss.

I continued to turn my heart... fantasy fiction, poetry, music, from “Be Fair, Belovéd”: languages, cultures....

Then, in 2005, a friend from Be fair, belovéd. Is this all you the Philippines sent me books that offer For my long wait: one moment’s ecstasy——

June 5 - 20, 2010

You merely fail (or do you know Tarrosa, after reading the said blog entry: it?)

To give them credit whom you November 14, 2006 quote.

Very Dear Elf, Finally, the poem from the anthology that has singly smitten Maraming, maraming salamat. my poetic heart, enough to inspire me in 2004 to write about 400 I accidentally stumbled on your poems, which I will someday be blog post today honoring Papa publishing as the book More than and Mommy. Yes, Abelardo Subido Four Seasons (and Other Leafs of is Papa, and Trinidad Tarrosa is Poetry, 2003–2005). (But this is yet Mommy. Isn’t it remarkable that Filipinas never cease to call their another story.) parents by their childhood terms of endearment even after many, many, They Tell Me, Love They tell me, Love, prose is more many decades past? precise To speak the soul of an enamored Tears streamed down my face as I read your post and heard once again maid, And ask me why I choose to Papa & Mommy’s words stirring within, two voices in harmony, lyricize My feelings to the very subtlest always in harmony. I am blessed to have their DNA. Their words shade.

I could explain… but will they are all I need to enliven me. As a child Mommy recited her poems understand How much a secret thing the Reason to me during our garden walks, and Papa read his to a dictaphone is?

Like why I’m pliant only in your with the theme of “Bonanza” in the background—a particularly funny hand, And when I thirst, turn only to your and vivid memory. kiss.

Where is the justice, lovéd one, in this: The worried wait too long, too brief the bliss!

Thou knowest it is thus: when I create Verses none else can dedicate to Why need you fear the wrath of thee, Heaven, why?

I feel I do surrender to my mate The gods are understanding, so Two loves to own: my Self and they say; Poetry…

And when our spirits freely fuse in from “To My Native Land”: art, O how the intimacy thrills my O my beloved land, whose air I heart! breath, Whose bounty is my daily The Last Leaf sustenance, I originally wrote this article How sad to leave with nothing to in January 2005 as a blog entry on bequeath, my eLf ideas blogspot. I am sharing Thy weal to serve, the glory to an e-mail message I received enhance; from Maya Walker, a daughter How shameful, finally, to dare to of Abelardo Subido and Trinidad rest from “Why Fear the Gods?”:

from “Criticism”: Your taste is good—your writings show it; Your words are poetry, I note.

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Maraming salamat uli. I have been feeling a great gravitational pull to glorify my parents and am coming to the inevitable...a novel dedicated to them. The book you’re reading in the photo dated January 21, 2005, was published by my siblings back in Manila, Philippines. For the last 28 years I’ve been living in Berkeley/Oakland, CA, but just moved to Vallejo, a huge Pinoy town, 35 miles up north of the San Francisco Bay. Pancit, lumpia, and pan de sal are sold practically every quarter mile. If you ever find yourself in this part of town, tawag ka... let’s commune over halo-halo.

Maya Walker

DFA to provide assistance to detained Malaysians

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n response to the request of the Malaysian government, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Alberto Romulo instructed the Philippine Embassy in Tel Aviv to provide consular assistance to 12 Malaysians who were detained by Israeli authorities following the attack on the Freedom Flotilla at the Gaza Strip on May 31.

Malaysia has no diplomatic relations with Israel and has made the request in accordance with the agreement on “Assistance by Association of Southeast Asian Nations [Asean] Missions in Third Countries to Nationals of Asean Member Countries in Conflict/ Crisis Situations.”

Filipino Journal After El Niño here comes La Niña

Philippine News

June 5 - 20, 2010

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he Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) warned that the end of El Niño which dried up farmlands in most parts of Luzon is likely to be followed by La Niña, a weather phenomenon that brings excessive rainfall, during the second half of 2010.

Pagasa administrator Prisco Nilo said in a statement that sea surface temperatures throughout the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean have gradually cooled during May, resulting in neutral conditions.

The rainy season, associated with Prior to their detention, the the southwest monsoon, is expected

12 Malaysians were onboard the Turkish ship Mavi Marmara, which was part of the Freedom Flotilla that was conveying humanitarian assistance to Gaza.

Israeli commandos raided the sixship convoy early Monday which are due to deliver aid to Gaza strip.

Israel has imposed a blockade on the Hamas-controlled territory for the last two years as a measure to prevent the smuggling of arms in Gaza.

Hamas is a Palestinian Islamic organization considered a terrorist group by Japan, European Union, Canada and the United States.

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to begin in the middle of June and rainfall conditions will likely be near normal in most parts of the country, with some areas in Visayas and Mindanao receiving below normal rainfall.

Rene Paciente, Pagasa weather forecaster, however clarified that summer has not yet ended because the volume of rainfall must not be less than one millimeter for three consecutive days for the beginning of the rainy season to be declared.

Luzon and Visayas would experience cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms. Mindanao, on the other hand, would have partly cloudy

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to cloudy skies with isolated rain showers or thunderstorms mostly in the afternoon or evening.

Meanwhile, Pagasa and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) are implementing a $3-million flood forecasting project this month to help address the perennial problem of flooding in Metro Manila. The project includes the installation of automatic weather stations, rainfall gauging stations, and water level gauging stations in selected flood-prone areas in Metro Manila and Rizal province.

Last year, tropical cyclones “Ondoy” and “Pepeng” caused massive flooding in Metro Manila and provinces in Luzon.

GenSan chosen as pilot area for sex education program

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he public schools in Manny Pacquiao’s hometown have started preparing for the introduction of adolescent reproductive health or sex education in their basic curriculum after the city was chosen by the Department of Education (DepEd) as one of the pilot area for the program.

Estrella Lariosa, the DepEd city division superintendent here said they are now discussing the specific details on how the integration will be implemented by reviewing and evaluating the possible sex education modules of the program.

Education Secretary Mona Valisno earlier announced that the department will introduce sex education starting this school year in selected public schools by integrating the subject in the basic education curriculum.

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The program mainly aims to educate the youth on the perils of sex at an early age by raising awareness on the consequences of premarital sex – either by choice or due to pressure from peer group – on students.

The program will be piloted in at least 150 schools in the country and will focus on adolescent reproductive health, rising teenage pregnancies, responsible parenthood, gender equality and sustainable environment.

10 Filipino Journal

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

The Metamorphosis Ernie D. Delfin Newport Irvine Rotary Club

Advice to Graduating Students: “Never Choose Your Heroes Lightly”

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t’s another June, the beginning of summer, and also the month of many commencement exercises of our high schools and universities. I have been attending many of them since my own graduation in Manila over 30 years ago!

I have heard many commencement speeches (I have also delivered several such speeches in the past), and many of these speeches in my view do not leave much to remember after they were delivered. Most likely, many of us do not even remember

the name of our commencement speakers and their “words of wisdom” they tried hard to impart. .

I often wonder what criteria do school administrators use to choose a speaker. Let me highlight a point: The prestigious University of Pennsylvania, one time invited U.N. Secretary, then, General Kofi Annan as the person most qualified to give advice to its graduating class. The university even bestowed upon him an honorary doctor of laws degree!

Any politically or globally oriented person who follow his tenure at the UN, and its oil-for-food scandal at how this UN aid program turned into was described as “the biggest graft-generating machine ever and enriching some of America’s most forceful opponents at the United Nations.” At the helm of the U.N. (at that time) was Secretary General Annan, who, despite being cleared of a direct role of the scandal was harshly criticized by a U.N. report for misleading investigators and for not scrutinizing his son’s lucrative involvement in diverting oil-for-food dollars to the Swiss company for which he worked for.

Question: What relevant advice can this bureaucrat credibly offer to the graduating class?

Politicians are also invited to be the commencement speakers. The majority of them, unfortunately, are not worth the time (and honorarium fees?) listening to them as there are no enduring challenges that really move the students’ imagination.

Who then can be great

individuals who can dispense some relevant and inspiring commencement exercises to any graduating class, be it a high school or college? A few years back, the OC Register editorial wrote: “that commencement speakers should be people of principle who understand how our present world really works, who are honest thinkers, preferably doers, who have insights into the basic debates of life and who can deliver such message reasonably well.” That editorial gave an example of several people, including an inventor, Burt Rutan, who has designed 38 new airplanes in his three decades of hands-on involvement in aviation.

Inventor Rutan has been featured by 60 Minutes and that interview captivated millions of people.

His SpaceShipOne won the Ansari X-Prize by flying beyond the atmosphere and repeated the feat a week later. Two of his designs were on permanent display in the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum. A quote from the Register: “What’s really fascinating about Burt Rutan is how creatively he thinks about the world beyond airplane and spaceship designs, about what it takes to create a society in which accomplishments like his are possible and help to inspire even more from others. And he has an irreverent sense of humor fed by a keen understanding of the importance of doing things you love and having fun doing them if you want to have a good life.”

I have been fortunate to have

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June 5 - 20, 2010

met and listened to a variety of great people who inspired many people like me to aspire higher, to hitch our wagons to the stars.

I have met and listened to many accomplished heroes, like an astronaut who was in the moon, Buzz Aldrin, in our financial services convention in Florida about 10 years ago. I have also heard Bill Gates. Others I would love to meet, listen to and interview would be people like the founder of Google and the Dalai Lama of Tibet, as well as many great authors, pioneers in business, religion and the CNN Heroes.

In my opinion, a great commencement speaker should be an individual who had actually changed the world for the better.

One such a person would be someone like former President John Fitzgerald Kennedy who has moved, inspired and challenged people us to dream, and to dream BIG!.

JFK challenged my generation to go to the moon, to join the Peace Corps, and stop asking what the country can do for us but instead what we can do for our country!

I challenge all graduates everywhere as they enter the real world to “NEVER CHOOSE YOUR HEROES OR ROLE MODELS LIGHTLY!” Your choice of heroes and role models has indelible marks in your lives.

You become what you become largely because of the people and ideals you pattern your lives after.

Be that SOMEBODY who made a difference to the world!

June 5 - 20, 2010

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

by Dr. Eusebio Koh

June 12 Is Memorable, but August 23 Is the Proper One

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n June 12, 1898, with a huge crowd of revolutionaries, General Emilio Aguinaldo proclaimed the independence of the Philippine Islands from Spain in his hometown of Kawit, Cavite. The national flag of the Philippines

formed and Aguinaldo was elected president.

This Kawit event was ignored by the United States who was winning the Spanish-American War following its victory at the Battle of Manila Bay. At the December 10, 1898, Treaty of

Proclamation of Philippine Independence in Kawit, Cavite on June 12, 1898.

as we know now was raised and the national anthem, the Lupang Hinirang was played. Aguinaldo at the time was 29 years old, making him the youngest Filipino to have led his nation and become president.

To be sure, his government at the time was more or less a dictatorship and not until six months later at the Malolos Congress was the independence proclamation affirmed and a republican government established. The Malolos Constitution was ratified, the First Philippine Republic was

Paris that ended the war, Spain ceded the Philippines to the U.S. for $20 million in consideration for an indemnity for Spanish expenses and assets lost.

American colonization and Philippine independence were now in conflict. The PhilippineAmerican War started in June, 1899 and lasted until 1901 when Aguinaldo was captured in Palanan, Isabela. But some Katipuneros continued to fight the Americans for years. Notable among these were General Miguel Malvar, General Vicente Lukban

and the Irreconcilables.

Now fast forward to 1962.

When the U.S. Congress rejected the $73 million bill granting additional war payment to the Philippines on May 9, 1962, Pres. Diosdado Macapagal was indignant. He postponed his state visit to the U. S. at the invitation of Pres. John F. Kennedy. And he started moves to change the July Fourth Independence Day to June 12. His argument was pretty cogent. American July Fourth was a glorious American event and would always dwarf a Philippine July Fourth. On August 4, 1964, upon the urging of nationalists, he signed into law Republic Act No. 4166 designating June 12 as the Philippine Independence Day. In his speech on the first June 12 Independence Day Celebration, he said, “In the discharge of my responsibility as President of the Republic, I moved the observance of the anniversary of our independence to this day because a nation is born into freedom on the day when such a people, molded into a nation by the process of cultural evolution and a sense of oneness born of common struggle and suffering, announces to the world that it asserts its natural right to liberty and is ready to defend it with blood, life, and honor.”

General Emilio Aguinaldo or Kapitan Miong as he was called then certainly showed tremendous courage and proficient military skills in leading the revolutionaries

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Filipino Journal 11

particularly those in Cavite against the Spanish forces. He had won skirmishes and battles with the Spaniards. He was over the hump of “common struggle and suffering” when he made the proclamation of independence in Kawit. It was the natural and wise thing to do.

Now back up a couple of years to August 23, 1896. Just a few days before, the Katipunan was exposed at the confessional and members were being arrested, jailed, tortured and sometimes executed. Katipuneros were on the run under a cruel, corrupt and oppressive Spanish rule. On that day, Andres Bonifacio and other leaders of the Katipunan fled to Balintawak, where they gathered at the yard of Tandang Sora’s son in Pugadlawin. After a vehement argument on starting the revolution, Bonifacio and Emilio Jacinto, editor of Kalayaan, managed to convince the others.

As a symbol of breaking up with Spain, they tore their cedulas (citizenship papers) and yelled at the top of their voice, “Mabuhay ang Bayang Pilipinas,” as Bonifacio raised and waved the red KKK flag. This was a

declaration of independence and the Philippine Revolution began.

After fighting around Manila, the revolution spread to Cavite, Zambales, Pangasinan, the Ilocos, and to the Visayas.

Macapagal’s rhetoric about being ready to defend the Filipinos’ right to liberty “with blood, life, and honor” fits the passion of the Cry at Balintawak more than the proclamation in Kawit. The risks and perils of Balintawak were more real, more palpable than the exercises in Kawit which one might liken to a victory rally for Spain was on the verge of giving up the Philippines.

We owe Emilio Aguinaldo a gratitude for leading the Revolution after the demise of Andres Bonifacio but in my opinion August 23, 1896, is the proper day to remember as the Independence Day. It lacked the fanfare and ceremony of June 12, 1898, or July 4, 1946, but it had the burning passion and the intense death-defying patriotism of a people seeking liberty for their nation and freedom from oppression.

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The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

by aLfie vera mella elfideas102@yahoo.com

Country Music Sucks! Really?

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(On Misunderstanding Country Music)

n one movie I watched years ago, a character said, “I like all kinds of music except Country.” When the person he was in conversation with asked him why, he responded, “Simply because it sucks!” Actually, I have encountered several people who have a similar take on Country music—that they don’t like it because it sucks. Ironically, what sucks for me is the lame reason of these people for not liking Country music! More laughable is—when I asked them if there were songs by Kenny Rogers (“You Decorated My Life”), John Denver (“Sunshine on My Shoulders”), Taylor Swift (“Teardrops on My Guitar”), or Keith Urban (“You’re My Better Half”) that they happened to like—they replied yes! Now, who sucked?

It’s obvious that they are dismissing a music genre that they don’t really know or understand.

They didn’t even know that the music of the artists I cited either are Country proper or has strong Country roots. Therefore, they just contradicted themselves—just like

one coworker of mine who said that she couldn’t stand Metal music but said that she liked Van Halen and Guns n’ Roses. Hello! Where’s your musical sense? At the end of the day, I just feel sad that many people couldn’t distinguish different genres of music—like people who don’t know the difference between, say, Jazz and Classical, or Metal and Punk Rock. On the other hand, this is unsurprising because music is art: If you don’t have real passion for it, you will never understand it—like you will never tell apart a Monet from a Picasso. What’s worse though are people who claim to be music enthusiasts but do not do their homework of researching even only about their “favorite” music genre/s. Poseurs! Like one longhaired acquaintance of mine who brags about being a Metalhead but didn’t know the song “Master of Puppets” by Metallica.

Took form in the 1920s, it has roots in traditional Folk music, Celtic music, and Gospel music. It gained popularity in the 1940s and was widely embraced in the 1970s.

Inevitably, because of the popularity of various genres of music and the tendency of artists and musicians to mix styles, the term Country music is used today to describe many styles and subgenres. However, instruments commonly employed in Country music remain to be the fiddle, dulcimer, harmonica, mandolin, acoustic guitar, and banjo. The drums, which many C o u n t r y musicians in the past used to scorn as being too loud, have become a part of the genre especially starting in the 1960s.

E v e n t u a l l y, electric guitars have also been embraced.

In terms of fashion, many Country artists usually wear cowboy hats and boots, obviously because of the origin of the genre; but this is not a prerequisite.

The Roots of Country Country music is a blend of popular musical forms originally found in the Southern United States The Diversity of and the Appalachian Mountains. Country Because it has become so diverse—producing subgenres like C o u n t r y Pop, Country Rock, and even Alternative Country—Country music has produced and continues to produce artists who have become commercially popular and successful. Gone were the days when mostly truckers and people living in the countryside, mountainside, farms, and suburban areas appreciated Country music.

Now, the genre has become as commercialized as any form of popular music; in fact, many Country-flavored songs have made their way into the dancefloor—like “Achy Breaky Heart” by Billy Ray Cyrus and “Don’t Tell Me” by Madonna.

Popular Country/Country-rooted Artists People who unfairly diss Country music will be surprised to learn that many artists whom they have listened to at some points in their lives or are currently enjoying are actually deeply rooted in

the genre—like Hank Williams (“Move It On Over”), Elvis Presley (“Heartbreak Hotel”), Johnny Cash (“I Walk the Line”), Patsy Cline (“Crazy”), Neil Young (“I’ve Been Waiting for You”), Willie Nelson (“Time of the Preacher”), Glen Campbell (“The Rhinestone Cowboy”), The Eagles (“Hotel California”), Garth Brooks (“Much Too Young [To Feel This Damn Old]”), “Wicked Game” (Chris Isaak), Alison Krauss (“Baby, Now that I’ve Found You”), Shania Twain (“You’re

Still the One”), and Faith Hill (“This Kiss”).

Also in Alternative Rock Even Alternative Rock has its share of artists whose music has a Country flavor to it—examples include Uncle Tupelo (“I Got Drunk”), Violent Femmes (“Jesus Walking on the Water”), 16 Horsepower (“Black Soul Choir”), and Wilco (“I Am Trying to Break Your Heart”)—all of which many regard as forerunners of Alternative Country music.

June 5 - 20, 2010 albums, I’m sure that your idea of Country music will never be the same again—you’ll realize that Country is colorful like perhaps any other genre of music.

Hank Williams – Honky Tonkin’ (1953) Elvis Presley – Elvis Presley (1956) Johnny Cash – Johnny Cash with His Hot and Blue Guitar (1957) Patsy Cline – Patsy Cline Showcase (1961) Neil Young – Neil Young (1968) John Denver – Poems, Prayers & Promises (1971) Willie Nelson – Red Headed Stranger (1975) Glen Campbell – Rhinestone Cowboy (1975) The Eagles – Hotel California (1976) Kenny Rogers – Kenny (1979) Violent Femmes – Hallowed Ground (1984) Garth Brooks – Garth Brooks (1989) Chris Isaak – HeartShaped World (1989) Uncle Tupelo – No Depression (1990) Billy Ray Cyrus – Some Gave All (1992) Tim McGraw – All I Want (1995) 16 Horsepower – Sackcloth ‘n’ Ashes (1996) Shania Twain – Come On Over (1997) Dixie Chicks – Wide Open Spaces (1998) Faith Hill – Faith (1998) Toby Keith – How Do You Like Me Now?! (1999) Madonna – Music (2000) Wilco – Yankee Hotel Foxtrot (2002) Keith Urban – Be Here (2004) Taylor Swift – Taylor Swift (2006)

Final Note Don’t be guilty of musical ignorance because of arrogance, indifference, and plain laziness to research. Before you claim you hate or don’t like a particular genre of music, be sure first to know about it. Little do you know that some of Notable Country/Country- the artists whose music is on your influenced Albums media player belong to the genre If you want to discover its you are dissing. In that case, the diversity and are interested in diss is on you! catching up, here’s a list of landmark albums that may be classified under Further reading: http:// various subgenres of Country music en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Country_ or simply have obvious influences music of Country. After listening to these

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June 5 - 20, 2010

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

Rakrakan 2010 in Winnipeg

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n June 19, at Pampanga Restaurant & Banquet Hall (349 Henry Ave.), 6 p.m. to 1 a.m., more than a dozen Filipino-Canadian bands will gather at a concert that will showcase each of their talents, music, and styles--from covers to originals, from Pop, Metal, Grunge, Emo, to Classical New Wave. Presented by Famous (Filipino Association of Musicians & Other Unknown Singers), Rakrakan 2010 features Foursight, V-Spot, Mustave, Side F/X, Sacrament, Ardie Sarao, Roy’s

Dirty Band, Mortuary, Hokuz Pokuz, Kodigo, Project Clear Sky, Narra, Tuldok, and haLf man haLf eLf. haLf man haLf eLf is the only Filipino-Canadian Classical New Wave band in Manitoba which represented the Filipino community at that recently finished Asian Heritage Festival.

The band consists of Jhun Villanueva (12-string acoustic guitar / percussion), Robert Nicanor (drumkit/percussion), Christine Mazur (violin), Johnny Holmes (bass), Tyler Holmes (keyboards/synthesizer), Jan Castillo (ukulele), and aLfie vera mella (lead vocals / keyboards / bellkit / percussion).

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Filipino Journal 13

14 Filipino Journal

Philippine Entertainment News

June 5 - 20, 2010

Boy Abunda scores detractors on ‘just entertainer’ tag Lea Salonga stars in “Les Miz” anew

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V host Boy Abunda in a rare display of public emotion reacted irately to the recent reports that say he isn’t fit to fill the shoes of the Secretary of the Department of Tourism

(DOT) because he is “just an entertainer.”

Abunda’s reaction was in retaliation to some negative comments in relation to the reported offer for him by president

apparent Sen. Noynoy Aquino to head the DOT office.

He said a large part of the job in the department is actually to sell the entertainment angle of the country in the form of food, national heritage, dance, and destinations. He added that he is not just an entertainer but a serious entertainer.

The TV host thanked Aquino for the trust and respect regarding the offer. However he said he can not accept it because he is not financially ready to give up his career in show business and take any post in government.

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nternational singer Lea Salonga will reprise her Broadway role, Fantine for the grand 25th anniversary concert of the longest-running musical play, “Les Miserables,” on Oct. 3 in London.

Salonga is set to share the stage with teen heartthrob Nick Jonas of the Jonas Brothers who will play his 2010 West End role, Marius.

Both Salonga and Jonas are previous cast members of the award-winning musical. Salonga

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played Eponine in the West End production back in 1993, while Jonas played Gavroche during the 2003 Broadway run.

“Les Miserables” is written

by Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil based on the novel of the same name by Victor Hugo. It was originally staged in 1985 and has had over 10,000 performances in 42 countries, translated in 21 languages and seen by more than 56 million people from all over the globe.

Filipino Journal 15

June 5 - 20, 2010

John Lloyd not to blame for Shaina and Bea’s row

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ramatic actor John Lloyd Cruz has nothing to do in the misunderstanding between his rumored girlfriend Shaina Magdayao and screen partner Bea Alonzo.

The actor said the real issue between the two actresses is even known to some fans as he claim no involvement in the spat.

The actor also reiterated his earlier decision to comment on his rumored relationship with Vina Morales’ younger sister at the right time. He also refused to say something on Liz Uy, his exgirlfriend who has found a new boyfriend named Ben Wintle.

Gabby, KC hoping to continue closeness after doing movie

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abby and KC Concepcion play father and daughter roles in Star Cinema’s upcoming offering I’ll Be There directed by Maryo J. de los Reyes The project’s storyline which touches on the subject of fatherdaughter estrangement brought by a failed relationship is expected to generate much interest because of Gabby’s off-camera relationship with KC in the past.

Both Gabby and KC are hoping to continue their newfound closeness even after the film’s exhibition. This time Gabby wants nothing more than to make up for lost time.

The father and daughter will be guesting soon in Sharon, the show hosted by the actor’s exwife, Sharon Cuneta.

Manny Pacquiao is world’s Fighter of the Decade

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arangani’s new congressman Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao flew to New York on June 1 to receive the Fighter of the Decade award on June 4 during the Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA) 85th banquet awards at the Roosevelt Hotel in Manhattan.

The seven-division world champion was named by BWAA as the greatest fighter of the last ten years (2000-2009). The pound-per-pound king will also be given the “Sugar Ray Robinson Fighter of the Year” for 2009, a third for the Pambansang Kamao, having received the same honor in 2006 and 2008. The award will be presented to him by legendary boxer Joe “Smokin” Frazier, who was a recipient of the award himself back in 1978 for defeating Muhammad Ali. Pacquiao’s coach Freddie Roach will be receiving the “Trainer of the Year” award for the fourth time.

The trip will also serve as a vacation for Pacquiao and family before he tackles his new job as congressman of the lone district of Sarangani province.

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16 Filipino Journal

Philippine Entertainment News

June 5 - 20, 2010

Movie musical on OFWs premiere in the Philippines

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he biggest original Filipino movie musical ever produced will have its premier on June 7 at SM Megamall Cinema 9.

Chito S. Roño’s “Emir” is a production of the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) in association with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP).

FDCP Chairman Rolando S. Atienza said the landmark film is President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s tribute to OFWs and could not have been made possible without her encouragement and support through the President’s Social Fund (PSF).

He added that the movie is a salute to Filipino overseas workers, especially the yayas who in their own ways introduced Philippine customs and values to the world.

The proceeds of the movie will be donated to a new film fund of the FDCP that aims the production of more quality Filipino films.

GMA-7 launches ‘Pilyang Kerubin’

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new drama series unfolds on GMA-7 on Monday in the time slot vacated by Panday Kids.

‘Pilyang Kerubin,’ tells the saga of a young cherub sent from heaven to earth to experience how it is to be human.

The series is billed a “telefantasya” and is purportedly the Kapuso network’s answer to Agua Bendita, the Kapamilya’s continuing effort to hook audiences whose faith is imbued with their beliefs in folk religion.

The series stars Barbie Forteza and Joshua Dionisio whose roles in First Time have cemented them as the new idols of the young generation.

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June 5 - 20, 2010

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

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Filipino Journal 17

18 Filipino Journal

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

by aLfie vera mella elfideas102@yahoo.com

Moose at Maple Leaf Na Lang Ba Palagi?

(On First Nations’ Cultural Symbols)

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apag sinabing Canadian symbols, ang unang naiisip ng maraming tao ay mga hayop o bagay na gaya ng beaver, moose, at maple leaf.

Many people forget that, since Canada is a very multicultural country, each of the diverse cultures comprising it has its own symbols that usually characterize its people’s collective beliefs and values. And many of these cultures that have prospered for a long time and have become significant to many people living in the country deserve to be regarded as part of Canadian culture in general.

For instance, for the First Nations, who are as important as any race or ethnicity living in Canada, the following animals and objects are revered as symbols that best define their specific culture. *The term First Nations (most often used in the plural) has come into general use for the Indigenous peoples of the Americas located in what is now

Canada, except for the Arcticsituated Inuit and peoples of mixed ancestry called Métis.

Dreamcatcher – a handmade object based on a willow hoop, on which is woven a loose net or web, decorated with personal and sacred items such as feathers and beads.

Usually hung above the bed, it is used as a charm to protect sleeping children from nightmares. Many

First Nations peoples believe that the dreamcatcher filters a person’s dreams—with the good dreams passing through the hole into the sleeping person’s mind and with the bad dreams trapped in the net.

Eagle/feathers – a sacred bird in some cultures, the feathers of which are central to many religious and spiritual customs, especially amongst Native Americans in the United States and First Nations in Canada. Eagle feathers are often used in various ceremonies and are used to honor noteworthy achievements and qualities such as exceptional leadership and bravery.

Wolf – generally revered by tribes which survived by hunting, but were thought little of by those which survived through agriculture. Some tribes respect the wolf’s skill as a hunter and attempt to emulate its ways in order to successfully hunt down

prey. Others see the wolf as a guide. Moreover, the wolf is not always portrayed positively in Native American cultures. There are those who fear wolves because they believe that contact with these wild animals would result in nervous illness or death.

These are just some of the objects and animals that First Nations peoples regard as cultural symbols.

June 5 - 20, 2010

kulturang bumubuo sa bansa ay nararapat na ituring na bahagi rin ng kultura ng pangkalahatang Canada. Kaya sa susunod na tanungin ka tungkol sa mga simbolong lumalarawan sa kultura ng Canada, huwag moose at maple leaf na lang ang palagi mong sagot.

Or, in Simple Words Animals and objects revered by the diverse cultures that Sa Madaling Salita comprise Canada should be Ang mga bagay at hayop regarded as symbols of Canadian na pinahahalagahan ng bawat culture in general.

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June 5 - 20, 2010

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

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June 5 - 20, 2010

June 5 - 20, 2010

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

Filipino Journal 21

Lose 300 Calories in 10 minutes without going to the Gym

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mazing ! Yes it is true. There is a fitness machine which is available and you can have it at your home/ office for use.

Gone are the days when we need to go to the gym, change our clothes and have a shower after exercises – you don’t need to do any of that with the “Forever Fit Massager” a fitness machine which is now being used by NASA and the European Space Agency to train their astronauts.

This space age machine which is also called the Whole Body Massager is now available f o r your benefit at very reasonable prices.

This machine is also registered by FDA. Among the numerous benefits of the Forever Fit Massager are S L I M M I N G : Consume the unwanted fat on the hips, waist and abdomen by vibration and massage technique thereby firming the skin tone and reshaping the body.

IMPROVES BLOOD CIRCULATION & METABOLISM: With age, cholesterol and calcium gets deposited in the veins and can tighten the interior diameter thereby stiffening these which often leads to high blood pressure and anoxemia and even coronary heart disease. Frequent vibration by Crazy Fit spurs circulation of blood therefore opening the veins and dissolving the detrimental toxins which are evacuated by the higher metabolism rate.

REDUCES CELLULITE: By increasing the blood circulation this breaks down cellulite.

STIMULATES INTESTINES: Stimulates intestines and thus helps with constipation by massaging the points according to ancient Chinese medical theory.

ENHANCED IMMUNITY: Keep fit and enhance immunity by enhancing local circulation of blood.

REGULATES THE NEURAL SYSTEM: Improves conductive ability of nerve cells and regulates the neural system and mitigates neurasthenic (a psychological disorder characterized by chronic fatigue and weakness, loss of memory, and generalized aches and pains, formerly thought to result from exhaustion of the nervous system).

Body Toning and Anti Stress: - Increase metabolism and accelerate weight loss.

- Reduces the appearance of cellulite, firms skin and muscles.

Detoxification: - Cellular waste removal, clean vascular walls and remove body toxins.

Bone Strengthening: - Increase bone density and prevents osteoporosis.

Just a 10 minute session per day is equivalent to spending 2 hours training with no strain on the joints or the heart as the vibrating plate moves smoothly with speeds from 160 levels.

It’s amazing that whole body vibration can do all this! It is true ...

It is affordable ... It is proven ... And you get these results in 5 to 10 minute sessions, 3 times a week! Mrs Sharanjit Kaur from California lost 15 pounds in 3 weeks of using the machine.Mr. Uday Prasad of Mississauga could

control both his diabetes and blood pressure in 2 weeks of using this machine.

Whole Body Vibration is easy on the joints, increases flexibility, and improves blood circulation, which easily moves toxins out of your muscles. It is easy and quick to use, and it is in your home. The Forever Fit Massager will change your mind about exercise … your body is the proof.

As you continue to use the Forever Fit Massager, you’ll have more energy because you have raised your metabolic rate. You may decide to add other physical activity. The Forever Fit Massager is in your home or office to support your overall weight loss and wellness plan. It is truly where health meets fitness!

The Forever Fit Massage can help by offering a lowimpact exercise alternative that really works.

This is an excellent exercise machine for people who have diabetes or arthritis as it helps the metabolism and increases bone density. One of our customers Mr. Arminder Singh of Vancouver got his Diabetes blood sugar level from 10.2 to 6.2 in just 2 months of using this machine.

There are hundreds of research articles about the impact

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of Whole Body Vibration, done by rehab experts, exercise physiologists, and medical doctors involved in treating the conditions we are talking about. Look at the research we have made available on our web site www.myforeverfit.com.

There are 5 different models and they range from -1.0HP to 2.5 HP (These machines are the most powerful machines in North America) All Forever Fit machines are assembled in Canada with the strictest quality control and are also CE approved and they come with 1 year warranty. This machine is very easy to assemble and come with easy instructions on assembly, diet guide book and exercises video you can do on the machine.

These fitness machines are available on display and for sale on June 12 and 13 2010 from 10 am to 6 pm at Holiday Inn – Winnipeg Airport- WEST, 2520 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg , Manitoba R3J 3T6. Close to Moray Street Please come and try the machines and feel the difference!!

For more details or if you wish to buy this machine please come to the address above or call on toll free Tel : 1866-979-2348 or visit our website : www.myforeverfit.com

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The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

PEREZCOPE

by Perry Diaz PerryDiaz@gmail.com

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The Wack Wack Connection

ormer Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman Bajamin Abalos is back in the news. In a resolution by the Office of the Ombudsman, criminal charges were filed against Abalos and Social Security System president Romulo Neri before the Sandiganbayan for violation of the anti-graft law and Revised Penal Code in connection with the controversial National Broadband Network (NBN) project between the government and the Chinese firm ZTE Corp. However, the Ombudsman absolved First Gentleman Mike Arroyo of the same charges. But with president

Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, no charges can be filed against her because of presidential immunity from lawsuits. However, once Gloria is no longer president, anybody can file charges against her.

With president-apparent Beningo “Noynoy” Aquino III’s campaign promise to prosecute Gloria and others who were implicated in numerous corruption cases during Gloria’s nine-year corruption-prone presidency, it is expected that Gloria’s exit would open the floodgates to lawsuits.

But why did the Ombudsman wait towards the end of Gloria’s

presidency to file charges against Abalos and Neri, instead of waiting for the next administration of Noynoy? Or did she do it to preempt Noynoy from prosecuting Gloria and Mike? Seemingly, the Ombudsman’s resolution reeks of deception and manipulation.

People close to Gloria believe that the Ombudsman’s resolution clearing Gloria and Mike would put a closure on the case against them.

But many legal experts believe otherwise. Noynoy claims that based on what was recommended in the Ombudsman’s resolution, he did not find total closure.

It is anticipated that charges would be filed against Gloria once she’s stripped of her presidential immunity. And since anybody can file charges against Gloria, I wouldn’t be surprised if former president Joseph “Erap” Estrada himself would file plunder charges against her. It must be remembered that Erap suffered the same fate when he was charged with plunder right after Gloria ousted him and took over the presidency in 2001.

That would be poetic justice.

Gloria’s fate It is interesting to note that Gloria’s defenders don’t seem to worry about her fate. Gloria’s deputy presidential spokesperson Charito Planas said that any Filipino citizen can file the case against Gloria, but they have to have evidence. One wonders if all the links connecting the First Couple to the NBN-ZTE corruption scandal have already been removed or sanitized.

In absolving Mike Arroyo, the Ombudsman’s’ resolution reads: “Quite interestingly, the only memory that stands out during this meeting (at Wack Wack Golf and Country Club in Mandaluyong) was (Mr.) Arroyo’s statement that (Jose) de Venecia (III) was told to back off from the project.”

This brings to mind the question: What transpired at Wack Wack?

Wack Wack connection Founded in 1930, Wack Wack Golf and Country Club has been the place to be for the rich and the famous. Named after the “uwak” (crow), Wack Wack has become

synonymous with power and influence; that is, political power and influence peddling.

The NBN-ZTE scandal that forced the resignation of Abalos as Comelec Chairman has brought to the limelight this venue for a series of rendezvous involving Philippine government officials and businessmen from China.

Indeed, Wack Wack was where the deals involving multi-billion peso projects were sealed with handshakes.

One of these projects -- the $329 million NBN project -- was allegedly brokered by Abalos and also implicated Mike Arroyo.

The disclosure was made by Jose “Joey” de Venecia III, son of former Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr., in his testimony before a Senate panel. De Venecia claimed that Abalos tried to bribe him for $10 million to withdraw its bid in favor of ZTE Corp., China’s third largest telecommunication firm. He also accused Arroyo of telling him to “back off” the project. And all of these alleged incidents happened at Wack Wack.

Why Wack Wack? It turned out that Abalos has been wearing too many hats, one of which is his business interest in Wack Wack -he owns substantial shares. He is also the president of Wack Wack.

It’s sounds wacky but Wack Wack is Abalos’ exclusive domain -his little enchanted kingdom that attracts the powerful and influential people.

Wack Wack has been a dominant part of Abalos’ life since his birth. He was born poor in Pangasinan on September 21, 1935. His parents, Ciriaco Ruiz Abalos and Efroncina Santos Abalos, both worked as a locker room attendants at Wack Wack.

He grew up in Madaluyong where Wack Wack is located and when he was old enough to work, he went to work at Wack Wack as a caddy.

Golfing became his passion. And golfing also helped him connect with the rich and the powerful.

As president of Wack Wack, it was not uncommon for the VIP guests to pay him a visit in his office. In one interview with a newspaper reporter, Abalos said, “With so many VIPs I’ve spoken to and met at Wack Wack, I might

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June 5 - 20, 2010

be accused of brokering a lot more deals.”

At one time, by his own admission, Abalos hosted ZTE officials at Wack Wack. And at another time, he played golf with Neri, who was then the director general of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA). Neri claimed that Abalos offered him a bribe of “200” - this figure was presumed to be 200 million pesos -- to endorse the ZTE contract. Neri declined the offer and reported the incident to Gloria. According to Neri, the President told him not to accept the bribe. However, within a short period of time after that, Gloria abruptly transferred Neri to a lesser position as officer in charge of the Commission on Higher Education.

Was the transfer a punishment for Neri for not taking the bribe and stay quiet?

When Neri was interrogated by a Senate investigation panel, he refused to cooperate and denied that the First Couple were involved in the scandal. Subsequently, he was promoted to a plum job as president of the Social Security System. Was his promotion a reward for being a “team player”?

Reclusión perpetua Recently, the Ombudsman denied Neri’s motion for reconsideration and upheld its recommendation to file criminal and administrative charges against Abalos and Neri. In reaction to the ruling, Malacañang said that the fate of Abalos and Neri is now up to the courts and that Gloria would have nothing to do with it. Now, that the Ombudsman is going to hang Abalos and Neri out to dry, I wonder if these two would continue to seal their lips and continue to protect Gloria and Mike out of loyalty.

But what price loyalty? Is it worth a permanent imprisonment of an “indivisible penalty of 40 years” with no possibility of parole? If Abalos and Neri find the choice too tough to make, then they should be prepared to live the rest of their lives in reclusión perpetua in the tough environment of Muntinglupa penitentiary, a far cry from Wack Wack where the rich and powerful play… and make deals.

June 5 - 20, 2010

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

Fron Alexandria, Egypt

Post Election Hopes

I

t was almost judgment day for political parties as election 2010 grappled the Filipinos attention.

For months, they worked day and night to stand before the people and submit account of their conduct and indiscretion. The goal of “serving” for another six-year term seems feverishly contagious throughout the whole nation.

In Mindanao, politicians had to advance on different castes and religious groups and reconcile their differing interests within the environment of the intricate sociopolitical reality in the country.

Mindanao’s image as the haven of ammunition and terrorists must be resolved. Arrests, alleged extrajudicial killings, and the seemingly incomprehensible injustice to laymen in this part of the archipelago have angered many in the country. This sense of injustice has resulted in the shifting coalitions of both Christian and Muslim political parties over the recent months. Each one believes they are working for the safety and security of all communities, regardless of religious affiliation.

Despite the seemingly endless images people ‘in

power” had put over the lands of Mindanao, Muslim youths remain headstrong in the belief that peace and development will have its declaration in time for their homeland. Prior to elections, they instigated movements towards political reformation. Optimism in the electoral system seems to be a way to go as Atty. Datu Reza Cang Sinsuat encouraged his sector to exercise their right to suffrage and partake with their elders the responsibility of putting in place future leaders of the country. Sinsuat as one of the contending voice of the youth is a corporate secretary of the Davaobased Southern Philippines Development Authority and is also one of the Board of Directors of the Philippine Association of Government Corporate Lawyers, Sinsuat, who has a strong background in Program on the Advancement of Research in Conflict and Collaboration [PARCC] from previous affiliation in a student-based organization – Conflict Management Center and holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from the University of New York, added that the exercise of one’s right

to vote is synonymous to the creation of a flicker of hope for the Mindanaoans’ war-torn homeland.

He emphasizes that a critical conflict map of Mindanao’s oldage issue may just be augmented by doing a closer inspection on the things that have often times been ignored and neglected. He furthers the importance of recognizing the youth’s potent wisdom to seat leaders who could bring lasting

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prosperity and stability to the country.

As Atty. Datu Reza Sinsuat becomes more exposed to the country’s socio-political landscape through his official and various voluntary works, one of which is as legal counsel for Philippine Red Cross - Cotabato Chapter, he once again encourages his sector to be vigilant in delivering the compelling force of the sector towards the delivery of peace and

development in the resolution of issues such as on the presence of armed conflict that results to massive displacement of Muslims, indigenous people and Christians alike in Mindanao.

The vigilante fever must not stop after the 2010 election. It must be continuously supported by everyone in a dynamic cyclical process as a nation’s progress for peace and development is monitored and aspired.

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Balitang Kutsero

by Perry Diaz PerryDiaz@gmail.com llustration by Dave San Pedro

Pacman Goes to Congress

O

n his first day in Congress, Representative Dr. Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao showed up dressed in his best - double breasted striped royal blue zoot suit. He was given VIP treatment in the Speaker’s office.

Pacman was surprised when he saw Gloria there.

The three-way conversation goes: Speaker: Welcome to the House of Representatives, Representative Pacquiao.

Gloria: I am very glad that we can work together again just like before, Representative Pacquiao.

Pacman: House of Representative?

Representative

Pacquiao? Correction! I’m not a representative of Dr. Pacquiao. I am Dr. Manny Pacquiao! And I have been reelected as Congressman.

Speaker: Reelected? I though this was the first time you were elected as Congressman?

Pacman: This was my second reelection to Congress. The first time was in 2007.

Gloria: But you lost the first time, Dr. Pacquiao.

Pacman: It doesn’t matter if I won or lost the first time. But this is the second time I ran; therefore, I’ve been reelected, okay?

Speaker (whispering to Gloria): Masama na ito. Pilosopo pa pala ito.

Gloria: Okay, Manny, reelection it is then. Since this is your first stint in the House of Representatives…

Pacman: Hold it, my belabed ex-madam president! Unlike you, I was not elected to the House of Representa-thieves! I was elected to Congress or as some people call it, Tongress. He he he… I demand that I get the biggest barrel of beef because I’m the people’s champ!

Speaker: You mean to say, “pork barrel,” Dr. Pacquiao, right?

Pacman: No! No! No! In my district in Sarangani, most of my constitution are Muslims. They don’t eat pork!

Gloria: Constitution? Oh, you mean, “constituents”?

Pacman: Same thing, same

thing. Now you understand why I want barrel of beef instead of pork, huh?

Speaker: Dr. Pacquiao, it’s “pork barrel.” However, it doesn’t contain pork. It contains moolah.

Pacman: Mullah!!! How dare you insult the mullah of my constitution! A mullah is a religious leader in Islam, and you want to put him in a barrel?

Gloria: The Speaker didn’t say, “mullah.” He said, “moolah,” which means money.

Pacman: Huh? Money? Like what you’re hiding in the Cayman Islands, Ate Glo? Gloria: Umm… Yes, Manny.

But nobody knows that. That’s our secret, okay?

Pacman: He he he… You’re smart, Ate Glo. That’s what I have in mind too. I’ll hide my pork barrel in the Cayman Islands.

Speaker: Didn’t you know that “Cayman” is a dangerous variety of alligator? That’s why they’re called Cayman Islands, there’s a lot of alligators out there. And they eat their victims alive. He he he…

Pacman: Kidding no. In that case, I’m not going to hide my pork barrel in the Cayman Islands. I’ll call Imelda and see where she’s hiding her mullah.

Speaker: Not mullah. It’s moolah.

Pacman: Same thing, same thing. I love them both… especially moolah. He he he…

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June 5 - 20, 2010 Gloria: Please tell me when you found out where Imelda has been hiding her moolah. Okay, my friend?

Speaker: Ay naku, naloko na!

Yup, with Gloria, Imelda, and Pacman in the House of Representathieves, it’s going to be a circus out there. Wah wah we! Kawawa naman ang Pinas! *** It seems that Comelec chairman Jose Melo couldn’t get his “signals” right. First he proclaimed the Ang Galing Pinoy party-list as one of 28 party-list winners in the elections. Then he withdrew the proclamation of Ang Galing Pinoy.

But within minutes he withdrew the withdrawal of the proclamation but would not allow Mikey Arroyo to take the congressional seat yet until his disqualification case is resolved by the Comelec. However, if Mikey was not allowed to take the seat, then the seat would be given to Ang Galing Pinoy’s second nominee, Dennis Pineda, the anak ng Jueteng Lord (son of the Jueteng Lord).

Jesusmariahosep! Ang galing talaga ang mga Pinoy! Naloko na ang bayan!

But Mikey found an ally in Pampanga Archbishop Paciano Aniceto, who “urged the public not to quickly judge President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s eldest son.”

Archbishop Aniceto said, “We leave that up to the Lord. There are many things that we don’t know about him (Mikey) and his background...”

I’m not sure about the Lord, but for sure the Jueteng Lord knows a lot about the “Lion King” of Jueteng.

The Ang Galing Pinoy partylist represents the “marginalized” group of tricycle drivers and security guards. I guess Mikey considers himself a “marginalized” tricycle driver because he’s been driving a tricycle since he was three years old when his mom gave him a tricycle for his birthday present.

Well, some kids just wouldn’t grow up. Meanwhile, he’s in the US “taking a rest.” Indeed, driving a tricycle could really be tiring... especially the ones for kiddies.

June 5 - 20, 2010

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

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31 29 30

329 2 30

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Here is the puzzle. Good luck!

3 4 32

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PAHALANG Peklat Ani Capri o Roces Bayan sa Bataan Namnam Plata James, mister ni Kris Hatol sa boksing Barkilyos Sinta Daras Malambot Ace sa baraha Gapas Tantay ng pelikula Kulay ng balat Ibinubuga ng bulkan Di-mataba Idistansiya Pulbos sa kalanan Nagdadala ng dengue Bayan sa Davao del Norte

So what is Sudoku? Pronounced [su:doku], Sudoku is the Japanese abbreviation of “the digits remain single”. In Japan Sudoku is sometimes referred to as “Number Place” and can be spelt “Su Doku”. Sodoku originated in Japan and was designed by Howard Garns. The Sudoku Game was first published in New York in 1979 and was likely inspired by a game called Latin Square.

Each Sudoku has a unique solution that can be reached logically without guessing. Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, as must every 3x3 square.

21

28 329 1

14

17

19

19 21

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June 5 - 20, 2010

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.

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The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

PABABA 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 11 13 14 16 18 20 22 23 24 26 27 32 33 34

Philippine Airlines Inakit Hiwa Trumpo: Ingles Pagkakatali ng kamay Ani Pepe en ______ Paghahabol sa korte ____ Hiking Society Tiwalag Matrimonyo Pagtamasa ng kayamanan Batong hiyas Ina ni Maria Sikreto Tusok Pamamasyal Lugar sa Imus Suyo Palayok: Ingles Hunks ng Hollywood

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

WANTED: Bus Driver with Class 2 License Vacancies for part-time casual drivers with Class 2 Licenses are available. Community shuttle bus will be used for major community events and initiatives throughout Winnipeg this summer and fall. Drivers that are able to speak Tagalog/Filipino is an asset. Must have clean driving record, and own their own vehicle to travel to/from bus storage facility. Please send resume, cover letter and availability by email info@FilipinoJournal.com with the Subject: “Community Shuttle Driver”

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June 5 - 20, 2010

The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987

Part time Event Coordinator Wanted

to coordinate events in Winnipeg, Manitoba You can make your own schedule. Must be very social, outgoing, dependable, be able to handle situations when put under pressure and follow a strict time schedule.

Before responding with interest for this position please consider the following: • This position is not intended to be and should not be your main source of income • This position requires someone who can work independently and has very good organizational skills.

• This is only a part time position.

• This is a contract position and you will not receive an hourly wage, and will be paid per event.

Job description: • Schedule events • Post events on various web sites • Market event • Recruit attendees for event • Set up for event • Run event • Send out e-mail communications to attendees • Update database with new attendees and new contacts • Attend networking meetings and mixers Please respond with an attachment of your resume or a description of your qualifications and why you are interested in this role.

Applications to this role can be submitted to info@ FilipinoJournal.com Thank you for your interest.

Only qualified applicants will be contacted.

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LEBANON - “Switzerland of the East”

I

f you’re a lover of ancient history dating back more than 7000 years Lebanon in western Asia on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean is the destination that will unexpectedly surprise you. For us it’s an amazing discovery educationally rewarding.

With an area of 10,400 sq. kms. and a population of 4,224,000 including the 400,000 Pelestinian refugees (over 10 million Lebanese now live abroad), Lebanon is one of the smallest countries in the world. Its reputation as the party centre and culinary capital of the Middle East is rivaled only by its natural beauty of snow-capped mountains, alpine ski resorts (Kfardebian and Faraya are the top ski slopes), beautiful beaches, cedar forests, fertile valleys, and the ruins of ancient cities and castles built by the Crusaders.

Despite the scars of the month-long 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah which caused significant civilian casualty and heavy damage to the nation’s civil infrastructure Lebanon is on its road to speedy recovery.

The country hopes to regain its title “Switzerland of the East” as it was known during its heyday due to its “strong financial power and diversity”.

Beirut is the capital and largest city of Lebanon, the focal point of

the region’s cultural, commercial and political life. In 2009 Beirut was named as a top place to visit by the New York Times. It was once the selfproclaimed “Paris of the Middle East” due to its outdoor cafe culture and European architecture. Many Beirutis speak French and/or English along with Arabic, the official language.

We enjoyed the stroll on the Corniche along the shore overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The Corniche is filled with restaurants and cafes, crowded with fishermen, bustling with men selling coffee, corn or pushing carts of “kaak” (a traditional galette). We explored the General de Gaulle Avenue full of strollers, joggers and walkers. Then we visited the National Museum of Beirut, a priceless treasure of Lebanese history, ancient peoples and civilizations.

South of Beirut is the coastal city of Sidon, noted for its sea castle. One of the famous names in ancient history it is now a busy commercial centre where fishing and maritime commerce flourish.

Citrus, dates and bananas are grown here and palm trees line its streets.

We continued driving along the coast until we reached the city ruins of Tyre (meaning rock) tripping through 5000 years of history. The city has a number

of sites including its Roman Hippodrome built in 2nd century BC. We spent a day at the Hill of Harissa, the central point of Catholic communities in Lebanon as symbolized by the statue of Virgin Mary atop the hill, at Byblos with its Crusader’s castle and impressive Roman ruins, and at the mountainous region of Anaya nestled at a high altitude.

Our last days were spent admiring the Kadisha Valley, a long deep gorge of infinite beauty popular for its Christian monasticism mainly because of the valley’s natural caves that provided monks and hermits sufficiently isolated habitat.

Driving through the Beqaa Valley we reached the Sun City of Baalbeck (also known as Heliopolis). one of the world’s greatest historical sites with the largest complex of Roman temples ever built. Today, the ruins are the site of the Baalbeck International Festival, an annual month-long celebration of theatre, music and dance attracting artists and performance groups from around the world.

Sun City of Baalbeck.

Arch of Triumph, Tyre

Gem & Lita & Sidon

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June 5 - 20, 2010

June 5 - 20, 2010

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June 5 - 20, 2010

June 5 - 20, 2010

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June 5 - 20, 2010