Pangyao Magazine Issue #11: Aug/Sep 2023

Hong Kong’s Migrant Community

NGO spotlight: Caritas AMP

Social Justice for Migrant Workers

Team spirit: The unifying power of sport

Welcome to “TRANSCENDING BORDERS”, a groundbreaking podcast series initiated by JCI Harbour, dedicated to migrant domestic workers in Hong Kong, with a primary focus on sexual wellness.

These hardworking individuals often face obstacles in accessing adequate sexual education due to cultural, religious, or familial reasons in their home countries.

Unfortunately, even in Hong Kong, ethnic minorities receive limited support in acquiring sex-positive knowledge and understanding sexual wellness. To address this disparity, JCI Harbour’s 2023 Community Development “PILLOW’S TALK” Promotion Project offers a unique platform for members of these minority groups to learn and become ambassadors, spreading awareness about sexual wellness within their communities. As an integral part of this initiative, our podcast series, “Transcending Borders”, takes a bold step forward.

Hosted by the esteemed Mr. Justin Chu, Curator of Education and Public Programs for Sticky Rice Love, each episode features notable guests, including PathFinders’ ambassadors Anik, Camille, Karin, and Mardy, as well as the esteemed Dr. Brenda Alegre

On August 19 every year, World Photography Day is celebrated internationally and, of course, photo lovers won’t miss the chance to share our favorite photos!

Being away from our loved ones, photos are one of the most important ways to connect with our family. How do you enhance your family bonds using photos? What are the stories behind it? We are here to listen to your story!

More details on this social media challenge will be announced on our Facebook page; please follow us and stay tuned!

from The University of Hong Kong. Together, we delve into a diverse range of topics that touch upon societal taboos, such as sex, sexual wellness, LGBTQ rights, and even parenting. By addressing these subjects head-on, we aim to break down barriers, foster inclusivity, and promote open dialogues that transcend cultural and societal boundaries.

We encourage all migrant domestic workers to actively engage with our podcast series and share these insightful episodes with friends and family, whether they are at home or abroad. Together, we can empower individuals, ignite important conversations, and contribute to building a more informed and supportive society for everyone. Join us on this transformative journey as we transcend borders and embrace sexual wellness for all.

Pawning can be a useful way to get quick cash by using your jewellery and other valuables as collateral. This ultimate guide will provide you with important information and tips on how to pawn items successfully:

1. Understand the pawning process

Pawning involves leaving your item with a pawn shop in exchange for a loan. The loan amount is usually a percentage of the item’s appraised value. You will have a specific time period, to repay the loan and retrieve your item.

2. Choose the right pawn shop

At Maxi-Cash, you can be assured of the quality, reliability and transparency. With more than 45 stores in Asia, Maxi-Cash is a safe and trusted pawnbroker with a team of friendly appraisers to give you an accurate and fair valuation for your items. Maxi-Cash also offers attractive promotions for its pawn customers.

3. Prepare your item

Well-maintained items tend to fetch higher loan amounts. If possible, clean and repair your items before pawning. Ensure that any accessories or original packaging are included as it may be able to add value.

4. Repay your loan on time

Repaying your loan on time ensures your item will still be in Maxi-Cash’s safekeeping. The good news is, you do not have to pay the full amount at once; you can pay in instalments, and each instalment extends the loan tenure. If you fail to renew your

Issue 11

Aug / Sep ‘23

Editors:

Aileen Alonzo-Hayward & Martin Turner

Lead writer:

Aileen Alonzo-Hayward

Front cover:

Designed by Martin Turner

Design: Martin Turner (based on original template designed by Steve Ellul of Cedar Hong Kong)

Special thanks:

Steve Ellul, Darren Hayward & Lie Fhung

A word from the founders

HELLO PANGYAOS! On our cover are the three sports teams we have featured in this issue: All Black Football Club, Kowloon Rays ladies’ rugby team, and SCC Divas ladies’ cricket team. They talk about how being in a team enriches their lives through camaraderie, determination, and passion.

We also speak with Marites Palma, founder of Social Justice for Migrant Workers, about the challenges she and her fellow migrant workers face and what changes she would like to see in the future. Our NGO spotlight focuses on Caritas – Asian Migrant Project (AMP), who have been around since 1985, serving and

Poetry corner

Poems from around the migrant community

uplifting the migrant worker community for almost 4 decades.

Also in this issue: Ron shares some misconceptions about what it is to be in love; Nhem cooks a deliciously rich ginataang kalabasa; Anisa shares her story of an early morning emotional crisis in our Indonesian feature; and we look back at favourite childhood games in the Philippines.

Thank you so much for your continued support, we hope you enjoy Issue 11!

Aileen & Martin

A taste of home: Nhem

Nhem cooks ginataang kalabasa

Lead feature: Feels like team spirit

Sporting opportunities for ethnic minorities in HK

Mga larong pambata sa Pilipinas (Filipino)

Favourite childhood games in the Philippines

Air mata senyap (Indonesian)

A story of emotion and support, by Anisa

Useful contacts

NGOs, consulates, and more...

6626 9751 (Aileen) aileen@pangyao.hk

Dosa

Biryani

Samosa

Uttapam

Idly

Nasi

Lemak

Papel

By Marie Charlotte “Balot” Bondoc

Ang buhay natin ay parang isang papel. Minsan may kulay, kayganda sa paningin. Minsan puti lang, naghihintay makulayan.

Ang ating buhay ay may papel sa mundong ibabaw. Papel na minsan ay blangko, madalas makulay.

Mga iba’t-ibang kulay sa larangan ng karanasan,kasanayan at iba pa.

May papel na importante at may tinatapon lamang. Tulad ng ibang may akda ng buhay... importante o patapon lamang.

Anong klase ng papel ang buhay mo? Ako’y nagtatanong lamang aking kaibigan.

Depression

I know your pain

Emotions you contain

Decisiveness you’ve restrain

Dreadfulness remains

I know how it feels

Existing in darkness full of fears

Others may think it isn’t real Devastations hard to deal

Life’s not constant it may not be instant

But hope lies no distant

Tomorrow might be pleasant

Today won’t last Your sufferings will pass

You can then utter “oh at last”

Darkness you surpass

By Pia Piatot

Do you know that you are protected against discrimination and harassment on the grounds of sex, marital status, pregnancy, breastfeeding, disability, family status and race under Hong Kong’s four anti-discrimination laws?

Tahukah Anda bahwa Anda dilindungi dari diskriminasi dan pelecehan, atas dasar jenis kelamin, status perkawinan, kehamilan, menyusui, disabilitas, status keluarga, dan ras berdasarkan empat undangundang anti diskriminasi Hong Kong?

Alam mo ba na ikaw ay protektado laban sa diskriminasyon at panliligalig dahil sa kasarian, marital status, pagbubuntis, pagpapasuso, kapansanan, katayuan ng pamilya at lahi sa ilalim ng apat na batas laban sa diskriminasyon ng Hong Kong?

The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) is the statutory body responsible for implementing these antidiscrimination laws.

Komisi Persamaan Kesempatan (EOC) adalah badan hukum yang bertanggung jawab untuk menerapkan undang-undang anti-diskriminasi diatas.

Ang Komisyon sa Pantay-pantay na Oportunidad (EOC) ay ang kumakatawan sa batas na responsable para sa pagpapatupad ng mga batas na ito laban sa diskriminasyon.

To know more, please visit the Equal Opportunities Commission’s (EOC) website. Untuk mengetahui lebih lanjut, silakan kunjungi situs Komisi Persamaan Kesempatan (EOC). Para sa iba pang impormasyon, mangyaring bisitahin ang website ng Komisyon sa Pantay-pantay na Oportunidad (EOC).

Consul General Raly L. Tejada’s message for Hong Kong’s Filipino community

Sa aming mga minamahal na kababayan dito sa Hong Kong, magandang araw po!

At long last, after several years of enduring the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Filipino community in Hong Kong was finally able to formally celebrate the Anniversary of Philippine Independence through a series of activities.

I wish to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the members of the Filipino community who joined us in the recent Kapangyawan Friendship Festival. It was truly a joy to see everyone come together to celebrate and enjoy our shared traditions and cultures.

Your presence, enthusiasm, and support made the Festival a memorable and meaningful experience. From the lively music and colourful decorations to the exhilarating displays of Philippine culture, it was a wonderful celebration that brought pride and joy to the Filipino community in Hong Kong.

We look forward to your active participation next year, and hope to have your support in our upcoming activities this year.

In line with this, I wish to encourage our Filipino community organisations to register or update their information with the Consulate. This is to ensure that your

organisation receives up-to-date advisories from our Cultural and Information Sections, as well as invitations to our upcoming events. Please reach out to our Cultural Section to check if your organisation has been duly registered via e-mail at cultural.pcg@gmail.com.

Moreover, I reiterate our call for all eligible Filipinos to take the time to register as an overseas voter. The process is quick and seamless. You only need to bring your Philippine passport with you when you go to either the Consulate (14th floor) or to the Migrant Workers’ Office (29th floor) to register as a voter.

Lastly, we have recently launched our Hatid Kaalaman para kay Kabayan series, our newest public information campaign for Filipinos in Hong Kong. With this, we hope to bridge the information gap for our kababayan and inform them of services and benefits that they can avail of while in Hong Kong.

As we put the challenges of COVID-19 behind us, we at the Philippine Consulate reaffirm our commitment to serve the Filipino people in Hong Kong. Let us build upon the spirit of camaraderie and community from the Philippine Independence Day celebrations, and let us move forward in this postpandemic era together.

Mabuhay at maraming salamat po! PHLinHK

Love, Pangyaos

WELCOME TO AUGUST. You probably didn’t notice, but half of the year is already gone. And the good news is that the pandemic is over, and most of you, if not all, aren’t wearing facemasks anymore when you meet your friends, eagerly showing your smiles with lots of love emanating from your hearts.

And speaking of love, have you been part of the euphoria in last month’s controversial Philippine tourism logo, Love the Philippines? Never mind the bashing and the negative comments; as long as there is love in the phrase, it will make the cut, and we, Pangyaos, must always try to find ways to act on it, i.e., to understand love.

Love seems to be an extraordinary word for everyone, particularly for sweethearts and couples. To many, it’s always the day’s topic, may ‘pandemic’ man o wala, anything with love ay hindi ‘anemic’ ( o ayan, may rhyme pa ). Therefore, it’s paramount to understand it a bit more from the romance perspective. And along with labelling it as the most salient

word for lovers are the many nonsensical and wrong concepts about ‘love’ that we continue to practice and believe.

I will give you two. Yes, just two.

“KUNG TALAGANG KAMI AY PARA SA

ISA’T ISA, MAGKALAYO MAN KAMI NANG

MAHABANG PANAHON, KAMI PA RIN SA HULI.”

This is being applied to lovers who aren’t married yet. Kung kayo daw talaga, ay kayo pa rin sa bandang huli, kahit si Pogi ay nasa Mars, at si Maganda ay nasa Venus, at magkahiwalay sila ng more than twenty years.

Talaga? Well, let me start by saying that when you stay in one place for a long time, it is inevitable that you will meet other people. You will also change. The possibility that you will fall in love with someone else – whom you will spend more time with and with the same interests as yours – is very high.

So kung may mahal ka talaga, do your best na hindi ka malayo sa kanya. Kung

...do not lose focus on yourself and your well-being. You can only know how to give love when you have learned to love yourself

Award-winning RTHK Pinoy Life presenter and Pangyao resident wordsmith Ron R. Lacson shares his thoughts

talagang sa tingin mo ay ‘kayo na nga’, aba eh explore all the possibilities na magkasama kayong muli. Huwag mong asahan ang kapalaran. Pag nagkalayo kayo nang mahabang panahon, malamang ay makakita ka ng ibang mapapakasalan, at siya naman ay masasakal (aggh) ng iba. At kung maghihintayan naman kayo, malamang na sa muling pagkikita ninyo ay ‘too old’ na kayo at hindi na kayo makakapaghoneymoon. Bibili na lang kayo ng ‘honey’ at titingin na lang kayo sa ‘moon’. Eh, kasi nga, wala na kayong lakas (wala nang ibubuga). Drink na lang kayo ng tea or coffee and magtitinginan.

If you have no choice at talagang magkakalayo kayo for a long time, accept the possibility that you may find a new someone who could and would make you happy and content.

tinangay na niya at nilagay sa Balikbayan Box? Talaga bang wala ka nang dahilan para mabuhay? Oww. Di nga? Naman naman. (Kung may utang ka na dapat bayaran, isa yon sa mga dahilan para patuloy kang mabuhay noh).

You only need to realise that only you have command of your life. No one – not even the person you have given so much of your love – could take control of your life; indeed, they aren’t your only reason for living. Your motivation to live is you (ikaw mismo), because you know that you are always going to love…. and be loved. So tigilan mo na yang pag slideslide sa wall at baka mapa-jingle ka pa dyan, ang layo pa naman ng toilet.

Ang daming naghihintay sa iyo, basta marunong ka lang tumingin sa paligid. Bigyan mo ng chance ang sarili mo. You have a whole new and exciting world in front of you. Grab it. Enjoy it. The door to your next adventure is open.

Ganon? So iniwan ka niya. Tapos mageemote ka. At habang sinasabi mo yan, ay nag-wa-walling ka. Yung bang nakasandal ka sa wall habang humihikbi at dahan-dahang bumababa at nag-islide ang katawan pa-upo sa makintab na floor o sahig (marami na ring gumawa sa movies niyan... di ba? tapos gagayahin mo pa; wala ka na bang originality? ). Ingat lang, baka may pako o thumbtacks na naka-usli sa wall, matusok pa likod mo; or kaya baka masira yang suot mong damit na kabibili mo lang sa ukay-ukay. Hanap ka ng background music habang ginagawa mo yon. Pwede na siguro yung Sundo ng Imago, or yung Natapos Tayo ni Nar Cabico.

Pero teka, bakit wala ka nang dahilan para mabuhay? Lahat ba ng pangarap mo sa buhay ay nilagay sa luggage niya nung iniwan ka? Nung umalis ba siya, buong pamilya mo ba at mga kaibigan mo ay nangibang planeta na rin? At higit sa lahat, pati ba respeto mo sa sarili ay

Love always starts simple, pure, and elegant. Keep it that way. Don’t make it complicated and thorny. If you’re still single, use your time wisely and try to rediscover yourself; you may have skills and talents that attract potential life partners, so flaunt them. You may be surprised how you have changed over the years. Explore possibilities and adjust your goals.

And most of all, do not lose focus on yourself and your well-being. You can only know how to give love when you have learned to love yourself.

Love, Pangyao Ron.

“ANO PA ANG DAHILAN PARA MABUHAY AKO, KUNG WALA NA SIYA?”

“Being compassionate and respectful is not written in our employment contracts, and this is something that we hope would be the norm for all employers,” says Marites Palma, an Isabela native who founded Social Justice for Migrant Workers (SJMW), a community group run by migrant domestic workers (MDWs) to help and support their peers.

Founded at the start of the COVID pandemic in May 2019, Marites’ aim was to help her fellow MDWs who were struggling with life abroad. “Marami kasi akong na-eencounter na mga kababayan na may mga problema sa amo - either sexual or physical abuse, illegal termination, at iba pa,” [I have encountered a lot of fellow MDWs who had problems with their employers – sexual and physical abuse, illegal termination, and many other problems] shares Marites. “Kaya naisip ko sa sarili ko, paano ko kaya sila matutulungan?” [So I thought to myself, how can I help them?]

Facebook tends to be the preferred social media outlet for migrant workers in Hong Kong, and this is where SJMW connect with the community. Through this platform, Marites and her administrators offer support to those in need of help, pointing them in the right direction for legal advice, counselling, and even sometimes medical assistance.

They help address issues related to employment disputes, worker welfare, and labour rights through their network

of government, non-government, and private organisations. “Nakakatanggap kami ng hundreds na mga messages galing sa aming mga members na humihingi ng tulong kada lingo,” [We receive hundreds of messages from our members asking for help every week] notes Marites.

Enriching one’s skills and knowledge is also an important part of SJMW. With the help of their connections, they help publicise workshops, seminars, and training programs on a variety of topics such as financial literacy and mental health. These aim to equip MDWs with the tools for both for personal growth and for helping their peers in times of need.

And it never hurts to be given a little push in the right direction: “Ninominate ako ni Marie Kretz De Meglio CEO ng NGO na Uplifters para maging Resolve fellow noong 2019. Noong natapos ko yung kanilang leadership training, doon ko

What I want for all employers is to treat their domestic workers fairly. Labour laws in Hong Kong are here to protect us, but it doesn’t say anything about being compassionate. Don’t shame us in public, give us enough food, give us enough rest – with these basic things, we can avoid feeling unwell, both physically and mentally. Employers don’t have to treat us like family, they just have to treat us like human beings

- Marites Palma, founder of Social Justice for Migrant Workers

naisip kung ano ang pwede kong gawing project para makatulong sa kapwa, saka ko naisip buoin ang Social Justice for Migrant Workers,” [I was nominated to be a Resolve fellow by Marie Kretz De Meglio, CEO of Uplifters, in 2019. When I finished my leadership training, I thought about a project that could help my fellow workers. That’s how Social Justice for Migrant Workers started] shares Marites.

“Kahit ngayong nabuo ko na ang SJMW, tuloy tuloy pa din ang pagsali ko ng mga workshops at seminars. Gusto ko talagang matuto, kasi naibabalik ko din naman sa community ko.” [Even now that I have put together SJMW, I still join workshops and seminars, when I can. I love learning, because through learning, I can give it back to my community.]

This is one of Marites’ goals, to encourage her fellow migrant workers to join these free workshops, seminars, and classes that are offered by reputable organisations. “Mas maganda yung maglaan sila ng konting oras kapag day off nila para sumali sa mga ganitong mga workshops,” [It is better if they spare a little bit of their time during their days off to join these useful workshops] she says.

Asked whether she has a message for employers of MDWs in Hong Kong, Marites shares, “What I want for all employers is to treat their domestic workers fairly. Labour laws in Hong Kong are here to protect us, but it doesn’t say anything about being compassionate. Don’t shame us in public, give us enough food, give us enough rest – with these basic things, we can avoid feeling unwell, both physically and mentally. Employers don’t have to treat us like family, they just have to treat us like human beings.” @SocialJusticeForMigrantWorkers

All photos provided by Social Justice for Migrant Workers

Jay Cia Founder of Don.Jay Tattoo

What inspired you to become a tattoo artist?

Around 2007-2008, I was a customer at a tattoo shop (Bordados Tattoo Philippines). I came in with my own design, and the head artist/owner approached me afterwards asking if I wanted to do an apprenticeship with them. At first, I wasn’t convinced, but I was amazed how they could turn an image into body art. I was curious and wanted to learn, so I accepted the apprenticeship, which I completed over two years.

What do you like about being a tattoo artist?

Gaining new friends, meeting new people, but most importantly for me, it is learning new things. I learned about the history and origin of the tattoo from Filipino tribal designs to Oriental mythical creatures, European dragons, and many more. I find the stories and histories from around the world interesting.

What is the most challenging part of your job?

Staying focused and a maintaining a good amount of self-discipline. The sun isn’t shining every day; it’s not every day your body is at a 100%. We are human, and that influences the uniqueness of the art we produce.

What are your goals and dreams for your work?

My goal is to expand the business. Maybe a branch in the Philippines or making the Hong Kong shop bigger; I’d like room for more tattoo artists, and plan to add more tattoo-related merchandise like books, paintings, and more. I want to show people what tattoos are about and how they have shaped self-expression over history.

Don.jaytattoo Hong Kong

Don.JayTattoo Hong Kong

10AM - 10PM DAILY

donjaytattoohongkong

AS A MIGRANT domestic worker (MDW), knowing one’s rights is very important. Especially for first-time MDWs arriving in Hong Kong, it can feel daunting trying to navigate the information written in their contracts and articulating to their employers if they feel that they are not being treated fairly.

The Asian Migrant Workers Social Service Project of Caritas (Caritas AMP) aims to organise and assist MDWs to understand and resolve their common problems and needs, while giving them the tools to pass on what they have learned to their peers.

Implemented in 1985, over the years they have honed a holistic approach to reaching out and helping MDWs, with social inclusion, self-help groups, and social participation as the key pillars.

Social inclusion helps MDWs cope with being far from their home country and their family. Trying to adapt to local culture can sometimes be a challenge, though avoiding misunderstandings due to language or cultural differences can make the employer-employee relationship a lot smoother. Caritas AMP offer language programmes in Cantonese, English, and Mandarin, and even Chinese writing courses. Their organised orientation seminars help MDWs better understand expectations in the workplace, the Chinese culture,

and living habits of local employers. Their “Smart Helpers” thematic seminars offer advice on labour protection, women’s health, and occupational health.

“We have held quite a few workshops and classes over the years, with the aim of helping to empower migrant workers,” says Angel Wong Siu Wai, the senior social work supervisor of Caritas AMP. “We want them to have the skills and knowledge to make their lives here in Hong Kong easier.”

Self-help groups have been vital to disseminating valuable information in terms of caring for one’s mental and emotional health. Caritas AMP have arranged for MDWs with common experiences to spend time together, talking about their lives, sharing stories, and ultimately relieving stress that arises from work and living so far from their loved ones. Cultivating mutual support from their peers helps alleviate the personal and adjustment challenges they encounter.

Social participation allows MDWs to feel a sense of belonging and feel that they are part of the community in general. “Currently, we provide the following social participation events: eco-friendly outreach volunteer service, food art therapy workshops, the meal welfare concern group, baking classes, and community farming activities,” says

We want [migrant domestic workers] to have the skills and knowledge to make their lives here in Hong Kong easier

- Angel Wong Siu Wai, Senior Social Work Supervisor at Caritas AMP

Angel. “All of these activities are designed to help empower these women and give them a sense of togetherness.”

For MDWs who find themselves homeless or in a crisis situation that warrants them protection, Caritas AMP can refer them to the Diocesan Pastoral Centre for Filipinos (DPFC) who run two shelters, one of which – Mary’s Home – can house a maximum of 30 Filipinos. Their shelter in Wah Fu, on the other hand, provides space for Indonesian women.

Despite having a small team that comprises a senior social worker, a welfare worker, and a program worker, Caritas AMP has proven its value in easing and enriching the lives of MDW women in Hong Kong. And as the population of MDWs continue to increase with the demands of the city, support and aid for the vulnerable will remain at the heart of Caritas AMP at all times.

CARITAS AMP SOCIAL PARTICIPATION EVENTS

• Eco-friendly outreach volunteer service

• Food art therapy workshops

• Meal welfare concern group

• Baking classes

• Community farming activities

@CaritasAsianMigrantProject

All photos provided by Caritas AMP

Nhem cooks Ginataang kalabasa na may hipon (Pumpkin

in coconut milk with prawn)

A brief history of ginataan

Ginataan refers to the Filipino term that describes food that is cooked in gata or coconut milk. It can be a savoury or sweet dish and covers a wide range of dishes from across the Philippines.

You can make any meat and vegetable into a ginataan dish. In this version of ginataang kalabasa na may hipon, patis or fish sauce is not used as the main source of umami, but rather bagoong or sautéed shrimp paste.

Introducing Nhem

Originally from Pangasinan, Nhem has always been interested in cooking. Inspired by her mom, Mama Bing, she makes a lot of Filipino dishes. “Mahilig ako magluto dahil kay Mama,” [I like cooking because of my mom] she says.

Nhem has an impressive repertoire of recipes, from Cantonese classics like steamed fish to sweet & sour pork, from other cuisines like chicken Kyiv to a lovely beef stew. “Gusto ko talagang matuto magluto ng iba’t ibang putahe. Kahit kapag makasama kami ni Anne, partner ko, ako ang mas madalas na nagluluto,” [I love learning how to cook different recipes. Even when Anne, my partner, and I are together, I am the one who often cooks] she shares.

Both Nhem and Anne live and work in the outlying islands of Hong Kong. “Swerte nga kami kasi may oras kami para gawin yung gusto namin dahil sa working hours namin sa aming mga employers,” [We have been lucky that both of us have time to pursue our interests because of our favourable working hours] Nhem says. She aims to continue learning, not only with her cooking, but in life in general.

Photos by Martin Turner

Gusto ko talagang matuto magluto ng iba’t ibang putahe. Kahit kapag makasama kami ni Anne, partner ko, ako ang mas madalas na nagluluto

[I love learning how to cook different recipes. Even when Anne, my partner, and I are together, I am the one who often cooks]

Ingredients

• 500g kalabasa or any squash, cubed

• 10 pcs tiger prawns, deveined and legs cut off

• 10 stalks of yardlong beans, cut into 2-inch lengths

• 2 cans of 400ml coconut milk

• 2 boxes of 200ml coconut cream

• 1 tbsp bagoong

• 10 pcs okra

• 5 cloves of garlic, minced

• 3 shallots, chopped

• 2-inch finger of ginger, julienned

• 2 tbsp cooking oil, salt/pepper to taste

Method

1. Sautè the shallots, ginger, and garlic until soft and translucent. Add a dash of salt to flavour the base.

2. Add the kalabasa and mix in well in the pan for about 5 minutes

3. Pour the coconut milk and coconut cream; when it simmers, lower the heat to a low-medium and continue to simmer for about 5 minutes. Stir often so the coconut milk does not burn at the bottom of the pan; cook for another 10-15 minutes

4. As soon as the kalabasa is soft (you can check by poking it with a fork), add the bagoong, okra, yardlong beans and prawns. Cook for a further 5-10 minutes

5. Serve over steamed rice

Feels like team spirit

By Aileen Alonzo-Hayward

ETHNIC MINORITIES (EMS) and migrant domestic workers (MDWs) in Hong Kong are faced with a variety of challenges when it comes to participating in sports. Language barriers, cultural differences, and limited access to resources are some of the main obstacles they encounter.

“I know so many young and talented football players in our community, my dream for them is to be accepted in more local teams and to get more support from the government in terms of inclusivity and participation in sports,” says Medard Koya, co-founder of All Black FC (ABFC), a community football club comprised of people from all backgrounds, including refugees and asylum seekers.

Through their passion for football and their commitment to service, ABFC aims to inspire, uplift, and transform lives through sport.

Established in 2011, ABFC was formed as a direct result of Medard’s own personal experience of trying to integrate into Hong Kong: “I observed that for some of my African brothers emigrating from their home countries to Hong Kong, it can be tough to fit in. This is what inspired us to create this platform to express ourselves and to use sports and culture as ways to integrate into society.”

ABFC’s mission is to empower individuals, promote social integration, and create positive change through the unifying power of football. They are dedicated to providing opportunities, fostering leadership skills, and making a lasting impact on the lives of those who join the team.

The club is part of Sports For Life (SFL), a non-governmental organisation that provides opportunities for marginalised migrants, refugees, and ethnic minorities through the channels of sports and culture.

Team sports help marginalised communities, not only through social integration, but also by empowering individuals and creating bonds that last a lifetime

SFL is dedicated to making a positive impact in the community through four key areas of development: community sports, leadership training, sports outreach, and social services.

Development of values like respect, integrity, fairness, and sportsmanship are instilled in the ABFC participants, promoting good character, empathy, and respect for others.

“I have witnessed these talented youths become motivated to do well for the society through sport,” says Medard. “Football, like other team sports, cultivates unity, fosters leadership skills, and engages the community.”

I have witnessed these talented youths become motivated to do well for the society through sport. Football, like other team sports, cultivates unity, fosters leadership skills, and engages the community

- Medard Koya, co-founder of All Black FC

Photos provided by All Black FC

Agnes Sordan used to spend her day off doing very little she felt was worthwhile. One day in 2018 whilst browsing on Facebook, a post from Eagles Ladies Rugby Club HK (at that point known as Exiles Rugby Club) piqued her interest. She was intrigued with the sport and decided to send them a message.

Five years on from that moment, Agnes is now team manager for the Kowloon Rays, a ladies’ rugby team comprised of her fellow MDWs. She found her calling through rugby, a highly physical and demanding sport.

“I didn’t used to be able to run very far,” shares Agnes with a gentle laugh. “My cardio wasn’t very good back then – now I am a little bit better!” If you watch Agnes in action, you can’t fail to be impressed by how much power she can exude on the pitch.

But actually, it is the teamwork and collaboration that Agnes found really had a big impact on her –learning to communicate effectively, to cooperate and trust her teammates. “My teammates are like a family to me. We train together, have fun together.

We share the losses and we also share the wins,” she says.

Rugby provides opportunities to interact with other players, coaches, officials, and sponsors from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Building relationships through the shared experience of being in the team can not only enhance social skills, but also create lifelong friendships.

Team sports are a great channel for developing leadership skills. Whether leading as a team captain or simply leading by example, it nurtures qualities such as decision-making, assertiveness, and responsibility.

As domestic workers, these women are often marginalised and discriminated against; this is where team sports can help them gain more resilience. These skills are transferable to various aspects of life, including work, family, and personal relationships.

Photos provided by Kowloon Rays

In 2015, Josie Treyes Arimas started her sporting career by playing softball with her friends opposite the cricket grounds in Mission Road. “I looked over to the cricket grounds and observed them playing for a while; everything about the game is so different to softball, I was interested to learn more,” she shares. Josie is now T20 team captain of the SCC Divas, an all-Filipino women’s cricket team based in Hong Kong (T20 is short for Twenty20, a short-form version of cricket consisting of a single innings of maximum 20 overs per team).

The SCC Divas cricket team was founded in 2017, when retired cricket umpire and businessman, Animesh Kulkarni, observed Josie and her teammates playing cricket. “They were strong batters because of their experience in softball, and I could see their potential in playing cricket, so I offered to help them,” shares Animesh, who now acts as team manager for the SCC Divas.

The team is comprised mainly of MDWs in Hong Kong, and what they have achieved as a young team is nothing short of impressive. They have won the CHK Women’s Development League twice in their first two seasons and are unbeaten in the top division since 2020. Last May, they represented the Philippines at the 2023 SEA (Southeast Asian) Games held in Cambodia, taking home two silver medals.

Being mostly MDWs, the team has faced many challenges. Most of them work long hours from Monday to Saturday; with Sunday being their only day-off, they have to fit in not only cricket practice, but also their own personal and rest time. It is a feat

of good time management skills to balance work, family, and cricket. “Playing cricket keeps me inspired and in good health,” says Josie. “I want to encourage my fellow Filipinos to join us, so they can experience being part of a team and also do something worthwhile on their day off.”

Animesh shares that the team are currently looking for new recruits, not only in Hong Kong, but also in the Philippines. “We have approached the Philippine Cricket Association and also the local government office in Josie’s town, to start a cricket team for younger players and develop their skills early. There is so much potential and talent, and we want to encourage that,” he says.

Playing sports is good for one’s emotional wellbeing. Physical activity in team sports releases endorphins, which can enhance the mood and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The camaraderie, support, and sense of belonging within a team environment can also contribute to improved mental and emotional health.

“Winning the game feels good. When we start playing, we should be playing as one, as a team, and this is where I feel like I am needed as a captain. Some might think I am a bit mataray [blunt], but that is only my passion for keeping the team together,” reflects Josie. “Our commitment to the game keeps the team strong. We definitely need new and committed players, I hope more of our kababayans [countrymen] will join us.”

Animesh sums things up very succinctly: “[Josie] is a tigress in the field, and I mean that in the most admirable way. Her passion for the game is great and I am proud of our team.”

Photos provided by SCC Divas

Mga Larong Pambata sa Pilipinas

SIPA

Sa larong sipa, kinakailangan ng pamato na sisipain; pwede itong tingga na may buntot na may hibla ng plastik o balahibo ng manok, o maaari ring gumamit ng bola na rattan o goma. Ang maari lamang gamitin na bahagi ng katawan para sa aksyon ng pagsipa ay paa, tuhod, siko, ulo at braso. Hindi pwedeng gamitin ang mga kamay.

Ito ang Pinoy bersyon ng Hopscotch. Kadalasan ay sa kalsada ito nilalaro dahil kailangan ng patag at malawak na lugar sa lupa o semento na pagguguhitan ng palaruan ng piko. Ang magandang pamato ay kailangan din na kalimitan ay makinis at pantay na bato para maganda ang anggulo ng paghagis. Magpapalitan ang mga manlalaro sa paghagis ng pamato at sa paglukso sa piko hanggang sa may unang matapos.

Ito ay larong pandalawahan, gamit ang isang mahabang tabla ng kahoy na may pitong (7) maliliit na butas (tawag ay bahay) sa harap ng

bawat isa at dalawang mas malalaking butas sa magkabilang dulo (tawag ay imbakan). Sakop ng

bawat isang manlalaro ang mga bahay na nasa

kani-kaniyang harap ng tabla, at ang bilang ng

mga sigay o butil na naipon sa kani-kaniyang mga imbakan na nasa gawi ng kaliwang

kamay ng bawat manlalaro; ito ngayon ang

pinakapuntos nila. Ang pinakamaraming butil –na pwedeng maliit na bato, buto ng sampalok o holen – sa kanilang imbakan ang siyang panalo.

Dalawang grupo na binubuo ng mula

dalawa hanggang anim na mga manlalaro ang kailangan. Gumuhit ng parisukat at pagkatapos ay hatiin sa apat; ito ay magsisilbing patlang kung saan

dedepensahan ng isang grupo ang pagpasok ng kabilang grupo. Ang layunin ng mga

manlalaro ay ang matagumpay na pagtawid at paglagpas sa mga nakabantay sa mga

linyang ginuhit nang hindi nahaharangan o nahuhuli ng mga nakabantay na grupo.

LUKSONG TINIK

Tatlo o mahigit pa na manlalaro ang mga

kasali sa larong luksong tinik. Ito ay dahil

kailangan ng dalawang taya na gamit ang

kanilang paa at kamay na magsisilbing tinik o bakod na luluksuhan ng mga ibang kasali. Ang

layunin ng laro ay lumundag sa tinik na hindi natatamaan ang anumang bahagi ng katawan ng mga lulukso.

Kadalasang palaro sa mga bayan tuwing fiesta. Ang mga kalahok ay mag-uunahan sa pag-akyat sa isang nakatayong mahabang kawayan na nababalutan ng pamapadulas na sebo o mantika . Masaya ito, dahil nadudulas at pabalik-balik sa baba ang mga sumusubok umakyat. Ang unang makakaakyat sa itaas at makukuha ang premyo na nakakasabit sad ulo ng kawayan ang siyang panalo.

CHINESE GARTER

Gamit ang isang mahabang lastiko o garter na hawak ng dalawang manlalaro ay kailangang luksuhin ng nakatalagang lumundag. Sinisimulan sa mababang sukat, at itinataas ang garter nang paunti-unti sa bawat antas o lebel na malulundagan. Kakayahan sa paglundag at husay sa pag-unat ng mga binti at paa ang nasusukat sa larong ito. Ang mananalo ay ang may pinakamataas ang lundag na pasok sa loob ng garter.

SYATO

Binubuo ng dalawang koponan o teams ang syato. Kailangan ng dalawang patpat, isang mahaba – ang pamalo, at isang maikli – ang pamato. Sa home base nagsisimula ang bawat laro, kung saan ilalapat ng koponan na taya yung pamato at gagamitin ang pamalo para palayuin ang pamato. Ito ay kadalasang nilalaro sa lupa dahil dapat gumawa ng mababaw na hukay na siyang paglalagyan ng pamato nang pahiga at patayo. Nasa magkabilang dulo ang magkalaban na koponan.

TUMBANG PRESO

Isang lata na walang laman at tsinelas lamang ang kailangan para makapaglaro ng tumbang preso. Magkakaroon ng isang taya na siyang magbabantay ng lata. Salitan magpatumba ng lata ang mga ibang manlalaro gamit ang kanya kanyang tsinelas. Kapag naipatumba na ang lata, kailangang kunin nila ang kanilang mga sariling tsinelas nang hindi mahuhuli ng taya. Ang mahuli ang siyang papalit na maging taya.

Air mata senyap

DINGIN DI BULAN Desember terasa lebih dari biasanya. Aku baru saja merebahkan tubuh lelahku di atas kasur single tipis. Bukan hal mudah untuk terlelap bagiku. Semakin lelah tubuhku, otakku akan mengaktifkan sinyal ‘on’ dan membuatku terjaga.

Ku putuskan membuka galeri di ponsel tua milikku. Melihat setiap foto yang ku ambil sejak tiga tahun lalu. Tanganku berhenti menggulir layar saat seorang gadis kecil tersenyum dengan gigi kelincinya terpampang di sana. Mataku berembun. Aku melewatkan kata pertama yang ia ucapkan, aku melewatkan langkah pertamanya, aku melewatkan semua saat dimana aku seharusnya ada disana.

Kristal bening itu kini meleleh membasahi bantal di bawah kepalaku. Kembali ku gulir layar ponselku. Semakin cepat ku gulir ke bawah karena dadaku mulai terasa sesak.

Dan lagi, ibu jariku berhenti di sebuah foto lama. Foto diri mudaku enam tahun lalu.

Cukup. Ponsel itu ku lempar tepat ke atas bantal. Aku merasa begitu bodoh dan tersakiti. Sekeras mungkin ku remas lenganku dan sekuat mungkin ku tahan tangis yang hampir meledak. Tenggelam dalam tangis sia-sia malam itu.

Dua jam berkubang dalam penyesalan cukup membuat mataku terlihat bengkak. Itu belum cukup membuatku lelah. Ku raih kembali ponsel tak bersalah yang ku lempar tadi. Ah, sudah tengah malam ternyata. Dengan tak berperasaan aku memutuskan untuk menghubungi seseorang yang tentu saja sudah terlelap di tengah malam buta begini.

By Anisa

“Ma…” suaraku tercekat memanggil seseorang yang tengah tersambung denganku.

“Ada apa, nak? Ada apa?”

Ah, suara itu. Menenangkan sekaligus membawaku semakin dalam pada penyesalan.

“Maaf.” hanya itu yang mampu ku katakan.

“Hei hei, ada apa, sayang? Ada apa? Kamu baik-baik saja di sana?”

Bodoh. Satu kata itu justru membuatnya merasa cemas sekarang. Dan parahnya aku tidak lagi mampu menahan isak yang sedari tadi siap meledak.

“Maaf, aku membuang tenaga serta waktumu. Aku menyia-nyiakan kerja keras papa. Jika saja aku tau nasibku akan menjadi seperti ini, aku tidak akan pernah meminta kalian untuk mengirimku kuliah ke kota. Sedangkan sekarang, aku hanya bekerja di rumah orang lain. Memasak di dapur yang bukan milikku, tidur di ranjang yang juga bukan milikku, membersihkan kamar mandi yang tidak ku pakai. Maaf, ma.”

Dengan terpaksa aku menggigit bibirku dengan keras demi menghentikan tangis yang mulai menjadi senggukan.

“Hei hei. Dengarkan mama. Mama, juga papamu tetap bangga. Meski kamu bukan lagi perawat, atau petugas bank dengan seragam. Mama bangga saat kamu wisuda. Papa bilang ‘tugas kita berkurang’ sebagai orang tua. Mama bangga saat kamu kasih mama gaji pertamamu.

@TckLearningCentre

Mama bangga, saat kamu memilih bertahan dan tidak putus asa saat kamu harus berjuang sendiri di tengah kehamilanmu. Mama bangga saat melihatmu berjuang demi bayi kecilmu. Meskipun sulit dan sedih, tapi mama sangat bangga saat kamu dengan berani memutuskan untuk pergi demi bayi kecilmu. Sekarang lihat. Bayi kecilmu tumbuh sehat dan pintar. Kamu bahkan menjadi pilar bagi keluargamu. Jangan pernah merasa apa yang sudah kamu lakukan sia-sia, sayang. Kamu membuat mama bangga dengan caramu.”

Kalimat panjang itu membuatku tertegun. Beberapa kilas ingatan tergambar di pikiranku. Saat berkali-kali aku berdiri di ujung jembatan, saat aku berusaha melingkarkan simpul tali ke leherku, dan saat mereka membawaku ke rumah sakit setelah aku menelan 20 butir antidepresan.

“Terimakasih sudah mau bertahan di atas lukamu, sayang. Terimakasih sudah memberi mama cucu yang cantik. Terima kasih sudah membahagiakan mama dengan tetap hidup apapun alasannya. Kamu anak mama yang kuat. Tetaplah begitu.”

Tanpa ku sadari bibirku mulai berdarah karena gigitanku yang terlalu keras. Dan itu tidak membantu menahan isak tangisku.

“Ini sudah tengah malam, tidurlah. Besok kamu bisa telepon lagi dan ngobrol sama bayi kecilmu. Mama sayang kamu.”

Tanpa membalas, aku mematikan sambungan suara tersebut.

Aku masih menangis, dengan penyesalan yang kini tersambung dengan sebuah harapan.

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