Measuring how well a person is aging can be as simple as balancing or standing on one leg. It may not be easy for everyone to maintain balance on one leg, but according to Mayo Clinic research, it can be a reliable measure of neuromuscular aging for both men and women.
In this Mayo Clinic report, Dr. Kenton Kaufman, the W. Hall Wendel Jr. Musculoskeletal Research Professor who is behind the study, explains the findings and why it’s never too late to improve your balance.
Aging can be a balancing act, and according to Mayo Clinic research, your ability to balance on one leg can be a meaningful measure of aging.
“This was a study looking at markers of aging in older
one leg can tell you about how well you’re aging
adults,” explains Dr. Kaufman, senior author of the study and director of the Motion Analysis Laboratory at Mayo Clinic.
Forty healthy, independent, community-dwelling people over age 50 underwent various tasks known to be markers of aging, including balance.
“We were comparing different markers of aging and trying to see which one was the most predictive of declines with aging,” says Dr. Kaufman.
Standing on one leg
He says, if someone can stand with all their weight on one leg for 30 seconds, they’re doing very well.
“Balance is complicated. It involves many different systems. It involves your vision, your vestibular system, your
somatosensory system and your neuromuscular system. All those must work in coordinated fashion to keep you on one leg,” says Dr. Kaufman.
All of those systems deteriorate with age and increase the risk of falls. The good news is it’s never too late to improve your balance, it just takes practice.
“The important message is to try it at home. It’s very simple, easy to do. It’s quick. If you are unable to stand on your leg for five seconds, at least five seconds, then you’re at risk of falling,” says Dr. Kaufman.
Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network. Our Health is brought to you by A1 Nutrition at Grant Park Shopping Centre in Winnipeg
Bone Broth
Bone Broth is one of the most unique and powerful superfoods we have today. Although the exact nutritional content may vary, broth made from bones (along with knuckles, joints and cartilage) is a rich source of digestible collagen, an array of amino acids, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin and glucosamine, easy-to-absorb minerals, and much more. Traditional cultures all around the world greatly value broth or soup made by simmering a variety of animal and fish bones. To this day, it is the basis of nutritious soup or stock preparation for culinary experts and health-conscious cooks. Bone broth soups are valued because they are nutrient-dense, easy to digest, and full of health-
restorative goodness. Bone broth’s wide array of nutrients is celebrated in various cultures as a tried-andtrue remedy for the sick and weak, or simply anyone wishing to build and fortify.
The curative components of bone broth play vital roles in gut health, immune system support, healthy bones and joints, smooth skin and overall healing.
• No additives, MSG, preservative
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Vitamin B12 deficiency is linked to balance problems and unsteady walk, so ensuring adequate intake is important. Vitamin D3 is essential for muscle function, strength, and reducing fall risk, especially in those with a deficiency. Calcium works with vitamin D3 to improve muscle strength and reduce the risk of falls and fractures. Editor’s note: Consult your doctor or healthcare professional to determine the appropriate vitamins, supplements and dosages.
Standing on one leg for 30 seconds is a reliable measure of neuromuscular aging. The study found that balance is a complex process involving multiple systems that deteriorate with age, increasing the risk of falls. Photo by
Janice Palmer, Certified Health Instructor and Trainer; Jupinder Brar, Sales Associate; Felly Grieve, B. Comm., LPN, Proprietor, Certified Natural Product Advisor; Anzhelika Bashanova, Sales Associate; and Rose Bigornia, B.S.E., A.N.C., Manager, Certified Natural Product Advisor, Applied Nutrition Specialist.
Bao Bao Leung.
TED...
From page A1 at Flores’ previously unmarked grave in Mountain View Cemetery. These initiatives have become significant contributions to public awareness of the Filipino presence in Canada’s early history.
Thanks to his advocacy, the story of Benson Flores continues to inspire new generations. Community groups and schools, including students from Sir Sandford Fleming Elementary, now regularly visit the site, ensuring that the story of Flores and other early Filipino pioneers remains alive and part of Canada’s shared heritage.
A long-time journalist, publisher, and community leader, Ted Alcuitas is the editor of Philippine Canadian News (philippinecanadiannews.com). He first arrived in Winnipeg in 1969 after moving from Saskatoon, where he and his wife had initially settled in 1968 with their then-eightmonth-old daughter, Luningning Alcuitas-Imperial, now a lawyer and head of British Columbia’s Workers’ Compensation Appeal Tribunal (WCAT).
Now based in British Columbia, Alcuitas continues to be a tireless advocate for Filipino Canadian visibility and historical recognition.
Benson Flores remembered Benson Flores was born in the Philippines in 1848 and is now recognized as the first documented Filipino immigrant in Canada. Historical records and The Canadian Encyclopedia say he settled on Bowen Island, northwest of modern-day Vancouver, and
according to census records, he arrived in 1861, a decade before British Columbia joined Canada.
Known locally as “Old Ben,” Flores worked as a fisherman and trapper and operated the first boatrental business in Snug Cove, according to the Bowen Island Museum and Archives. Though he had no family of his own, he lived an active and respected life in the community until his passing at age 81 on April 11, 1929.
He was laid to rest in Mountain View Cemetery, where his onceunmarked grave now bears a tombstone, thanks to Ted Alcuitas and community supporters who ensured his story would be remembered as part of Canada’s shared history.
Awards night photos by:
MESA
Photography
Students of DK School of Music celebrate
Ted Alcuitas shows the tombstone of Benjamin “Benson” Flores at Vancouver Mountainview Cemetery during Benson’s memorial celebration held on 11 April 2024. Photo by Vancouver PCG.
Students from the Sanford Elementary School visited the gravesite of Benson Flores in November 2024. Ted Alcuitas (in white shirt and hat) gave the students a short history lesson. He also donated to the school a copy of the book he co-authored, Magdaragat: An Anthology of Filipino Canadian Writing. Photo by Sammie Jo Rumbaua.
Eman Bacosa Pacquiao
Fighting with faith and a grateful heart
At the recent Thrilla in Manila 2 event, a new fighter loomed large in the ring. Emmanuel Joseph Bacosa Pacquiao, once known simply as Eman Bacosa, has maintained an undefeated record of seven wins, no losses, one draw, and four knockouts.
While the event was organized by his father, Manny Pacman Pacquiao, to mark the 50th anniversary of the legendary 1975 fight between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, much of the buzz
shifted to Eman, Manny’s 21-yearold son with Joanna Rose Bacosa
For most of his life, Eman carried his mother’s last name. Born in 2004 and raised away from the spotlight, he grew up knowing who his father was but never relying on the fame attached to the Pacquiao name. His journey was humble and often difficult but filled with the quiet strength of faith and gratitude. In a recent interview with Jessica Soho, Eman spoke candidly about those early years.
“We didn’t have much,” he said, “but I was happy. My mom taught me to thank God for everything, even the small things.”
Eman first fell in love with boxing at age nine, after watching his father’s match against Shane Mosley. At 12, he moved to Japan, where his mother, who is halfJapanese, encouraged him to pursue both education and the sport he loved. For five years, he balanced school and rigorous training, learning discipline, humility, and the value of hard work.
Before the Thrilla in Manila 2 Manny Pacquiao made a heartfelt public gesture, apologizing to Eman for not being there when he was younger and officially allowing him to carry the Pacquiao surname. It was a moment of healing and recognition. Even more touching, Jinkee Pacquiao and Manny’s other children have since welcomed Eman into the family, embracing him with warmth and understanding.
Eman, however, remains grounded. He often credits his stepfather, Papa Sultan, as the man who raised him with real love and guidance.
“It was from him that we felt what it’s like to have a real father,” he said.
Now an undefeated amateur boxer, Eman continues to chase his dream, and not to live under his father’s shadow, but to create his own light. Before every fight, he prays.
“Every punch I throw, every win, it’s all because of God,” he shared.
Currently a Grade 11 student in the Alternative Learning System (ALS) with plans to study mechanical engineering, Eman is determined to prove that success isn’t inherited, it’s earned.
In finding peace with his past and gratitude for the present, Eman Pacquiao reminds us that true strength comes not from wealth or name, but from forgiveness, humility, and grace.
–With files compiled by Pilipino Express
Once known only by his mother’s name, Eman Bacosa Pacquiao has found recognition, family acceptance, and his own path in boxing. Raised in humble circumstances, he has learned to fight life’s battles with faith, gratitude, and quiet strength.
We met at Hildegard’s Bakery along Portage Avenue. It’s a cozy spot that, oddly enough, none of us had ever visited before. It seemed like the perfect place to meet Michael MacSpurren, a young actor who has a growing list of musical theatre credits under his belt.
That day, I woke up with a sore throat. Michael arrived with his mom, Celeste Odoño, straight from Art City, where he’s part of ARTsquad, a youth leadership program that combines creativity and community engagement. Because his first choir concert of the school year was only days away, I asked his mom to get him a mask. I didn’t want this teenage performer catching my bug.
Early forays in musical theatre
Before residing in Winnipeg, the MacSpurrens lived in Ontario, where Celeste and Bruce hosted members of the Philippine Madrigal Singers during their 2011 Canadian tour. Among the guests was Bianca Lopez-Aguila, who would years later become Michael’s voice teacher.
“Bianca influenced me into looking more into theatre,” Michael said. “Then she helped me improve my singing skills.”
Michael’s path into theatre began when the world was reeling from lockdowns. “I ended up starting musical theatre in 2020, with the St. James-Assiniboia School Division production of Disney’s Frozen JR.,” he recalled. His first role was as a townsperson. Small, perhaps, but formative.
“Honestly, I really enjoyed it. I got to make some really good friends there.”
Growing into the spotlight Michael’s first lead role came in Disney’s Moana JR., where he played Maui. The casting moment remains one of his favourite memories.
“It was close to my birthday. I had auditioned for Hei Hei, and my parents tried to act disappointed to throw me off. That’s how I found out I got the role of Maui,” he laughed.
A year later, he took on a more emotionally demanding part as Marlin in Disney’s Finding Nemo JR. “I had to capture his sense of loss and grief,” he explained. “It didn’t click at first. But I think I started getting the hang of it by the time the production was actually happening.”
From cheerful ensemble parts to layered leads, Michael’s artistic growth is clear. What began as curiosity inspired by Frozen and his mom’s love of musicals has become a serious craft.
“My favourite part is the acting,” he said. “It’s about moulding the characters and making people care about the characters and their motivations.”
Discipline, dedication, and drive
Michael is currently enrolled in the Sturgeon Heights Collegiate’s musical theatre and concert choir programs. So, aside from acting, he’s also part of the St. James-Assiniboia Senior Concert Choir. His days are filled with rehearsals, classes, and music. Balancing theatre, choir, and schoolwork isn’t easy.
“When it comes to time management, I have no true idea how I manage my time effectively,” he admitted. “However, I have recently been trying to prioritize schoolwork and practice.”
When asked what he likes best about performing in musical theatre, his face lit up.
“I would say it’s the connections I make. I met one of my lifelong friends through musical theatre when I was in fourth grade.”
That sense of belonging and of shared purpose seems to fuel his dedication.
Looking ahead
After each show, Michael takes his final bow. “Bittersweet moments,” he said. “It means another production gone by in a flash. At the end of Finding Nemo, I started crying because it was my last year acting with the Divisional Musical Troupe.”
Since that first step five years ago, Michael has joined eight productions. His confidence has grown alongside his experience, moving from ensemble roles to leading parts.
What is his advice for other teens who might be hesitant to try performing?
“Put yourself out there and do your best, even if you don’t feel the best about it.”
His dream role?
“Kristoff in the full Frozen musical,” he said without hesitation. “His character is slightly more fleshed out in the musical than in the original movie.” So, yes, this is more than just a hobby. “I personally plan on pursuing professional theatre in the future, seeing that as my preferred career path,” he said.
As Michael continues to explore his voice, heritage, and identity through the arts, his path only seems to be widening. This November, he’ll be onstage in Piper Pride Production’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat followed in December by Mamma Mia at Sturgeon Heights Collegiate.
With a growing résumé, a sense of discipline, and a clear vision for the future, Michael MacSpurren stands as a proud example of young Filipino-Canadian artists rooted in community who are ready for the next spotlight.
For show tickets and information, visit www.piperprideproductions. ca and www.sjasd.ca/school/ sturgeonheights
Photos by Celeste Odoño
Michael MacSpurren Finding his voice in musical theatre
The MacSpurrens, (l-r): Bruce, Liam, Alex, Michael, and Celeste. Michael credits his family’s constant love and support for helping him chase his dreams on stage and in music.
Michael MacSpurren, a young performer who’s learning to balance creativity, confidence, and growth through his love for theatre and the arts
As Maui in Disney’s Moana JR., Michael brought big energy and heart to the St. James-Assiniboia School Division’s musical production
Heading to class for another day of juggling schoolwork, choir practice, and theatre life
Fresh from a big win after the SJASD earned gold, the Adjudicator’s Trophy, and the Outstanding Choir award at a music festival in Boston
Michael’s ceramic project he made at Art City, where he’s part of ARTsquad, a youth program that lets him explore his creativity and leadership through art
Back in 1978, the Samahan ng Manggagawang Pilipino or Federation of Filipino Workers of Manitoba (FFWM) had an induction of its officers on November 11, 1978, at the International Centre (65 Redwood Avenue) (Silangan, October 1978).
In my previous article, which is included in the book Giving Back and Paying Forward: Filipino Labour Leaders of Winnipeg (1968-1997), I thought these were different organizations with the same set of officers, until I found the Silangan, May 1980 issue, which affirms that they are the same organization.
Officers of this early attempt at unionism were the following:
Jose “Joe” Guzman (Chair), Mel Ison (Vice-Chair), Andres “Jing” Asperin (Secretary), Quezon Taruc (Treasurer), Oscar Tobias (Auditor), Moises Ben (PRO), Narsing Soriano and Eddie Garin (Sergeants-at-Arms).
Unfortunately, some of the officers have already passed away.
The 1977 Silangan article listed the expected dignitaries attending the induction, including Labour Minister Norma Price, New Philippine Ambassador Ramon del Rosario, and Labour Attaché, Rodin Crisostomo.
According to Ralph Buñag, PAM president (1980), Joe Guzman was his friend. He convinced Joe to spearhead PAM’s program on labour organizing. Resty Taruc also prodded Joe Guzman to organize.
In the Silangan article, it mentioned Joe as a former labour coordinator of the Department of Labour and Employment (DOLE) in Manila, and as an active
labour leader in the Philippines. Furthermore, Joe Guzman had attended workshops at the Asian Labour Institute at the University of the Philippines. He also worked for New York Life Insurance and was a real estate agent. Joe eventually moved to Vancouver for good.
Interestingly, the advisers of the FFWM were PAM pioneers too, such as Dr. Conrad Santos (PAM board), Cris Aglugub (PAM president 78, 82-85), Resty Taruc (PAM president 81-82), who is known as the prime mover of the federation, Franco Razon and Danny Fuentespina.
The book, Giving Back Paying Forward, lists the organization’s achievements for 1978. Among them were the passing of its constitution and by-laws, attendance in the oathtaking ceremony held in the Philippine embassy in Ottawa, helping with the strike at Western Glove, a donation to bereaved families of the Filipino Seniors Group, providing aid through donation with the family of Jes Garcia, organizing a softball league for June 10, 1979, as well as the fun Disco in 1979.” (p. 31).
In 1980, the FFWM held its elections on the 21st of June (Silangan, May 1980). Candidates came from different organizations: Boeing, Tan Jay International, Standard Knitting, Health Sciences Centre, Motor Coach Industries Inc., Lantry Sportsware, McLean Electric Co., and Versatile Manufacturing. However, the record of the results of this election is yet to be found. It was mentioned in the
Joe Guzman: Early attempt at unionism 1978-82
October 1982 issue of Silangan that Jolly Rabaya was the incoming chair. A brief outline of the organization’s objectives was also cited: 1. Promotion of individual and collective interest; 2. Harmonious employer and employee relationship; 3. Greater level of skills and education; and 4. Harmonious relations with other labour groups. Board members include Susie Regacho, Jing Asperin, and Arthur Domingo. Fran Balagot, Florencio Antonio, who became a school board trustee, Aurora Casem, Joy Santos, Oscar Carbonel, Joe Sulit (CKJS radio broadcaster), Ben Esteban, Greg Sevillo, Jose Gonzales, Francisco Juan, and Ed Bumanlag were elected to the board of directors.
My ongoing research on unionism in the Filipino community in Winnipeg uncovered information that was not included in my book Filipino Labour Leaders of Winnipeg (1968-1998) Giving Back, Paying Forward. A closer look at the available record of objectives and achievements mentioned above proves the weaknesses of the effort viewed from the 1919 General Strike tradition of raising workers’ consciousness (collective negotiations, history of workingclass struggles, workplace safety, anti-discrimination and bullying, human rights, working class solidarity). Unfortunately, the FFWM would fade from the community radar between the mid-80s and the 90s. When the FFWM was just starting, the labour reps from the International Ladies Garment Workers Union and the Amalgamated Clothing and Textile Workers were noncommittal to the federation but were willing to assist the newly
formed organization (Silangan July 1978). Eventually, members of the community would become active in mainstream unions and become shop stewards, presidents and national union reps. Levy Abad authored a book titled Rhythms and Resistance: Narrative of Filipino Musicians and Activists (1972-1994). Levy is also a singer-songwriter, poet, and migrant rights activist who has released four albums centred on the life and struggles of migrants.
Filipino-American nurse first Filipino man to visit every country in the world
A Filipino-American nurse from Orlando, Florida, has achieved a historic milestone – becoming the first Filipino man to visit all 193 United Nations member countries.
On September 14, 2025, Glen Antolin Dalisay, 45, completed his over a decade-long journey when he set foot in Cape Verde, marking the final stop in a dream that began in 2013. His last leg included Seychelles, Madagascar, and Comoros, reflecting his travel style as a solo explorer drawn to beaches, cultures, and remote destinations.
A first-generation immigrant who grew up in the United States, Dalisay credits his father’s encouragement and his own perseverance for inspiring this global quest. His wanderlust began at the age of four when he first travelled to Canada and grew into a lifelong passion to explore the world.
Dalisay’s extraordinary achievement has been officially verified by NomadMania, the world’s leading travel verification authority, and by the Filipino World Travelers (FWT), the international community that recognizes Filipinos who reach major global
milestones. He now joins an elite circle of Filipino world travellers that includes Odette Ricasa, Luisa Yu, and Kach Medina Umandap, the Filipinas who were honoured earlier this year by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for visiting every country in the world.
Beyond the numbers, Dalisay’s story is one of courage and curiosity.
He ran the Damascus Marathon in Syria, bungee jumped at Victoria Falls, skydived in Namibia, and camped across West Africa for eight months – all while he is not working as a nurse. Among his proudest moments was reaching Angel Falls in Venezuela, a dream that took two years of effort just to secure a visa.
Now holding multiple degrees, including a Ph.D. in Nursing Education, Dalisay believes travel has been his greatest teacher. “It shaped how I see the world. That with determination, even the most impossible dreams can come true,” he said.
The Filipino World Travelers (FWT) community congratulated Dalisay on his milestone, calling him “a modern-day Filipino trailblazer whose achievement inspires global citizenship and Filipino pride.”
Jose “Joe” Guzman
Glen Dalisay completed his quest to visit every country in the world in Cape Verde on September 14, 2025
50/50 winner, Remy Cagisano and Most Creative winner, May Rodillo
Best in Costume winner, Tita Aida with Sony Rebanal of Ruwis Hair Salon and Lucille Nolasco Most Scary winner, Dan Rempel
Villa Fel Rodriguez (FILCASA) celebrates 35th anniversary
FILCASA marked its 35th anniversary on October 25, 2025, with a special program attended by the 29 families
currently
Who will be the Pinays Manitoba Trailblazers for 2026?
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Pinays Manitoba Trailblazer Awards!
Who can be nominated?
To be eligible for the Pinay Trailblazer Award, nominees must meet the following criteria:
• Be a woman of Filipino descent, a woman of integrity, at least 18 years old, with strong ties to Manitoba.
• Have made significant contributions to the Manitoba community, whether through paid work or volunteerism in the private, public, or nonprofit sectors.
• Not be a current member of Pinays Manitoba Inc.
• Support the mission and vision of Pinays Manitoba.
• Consent to being nominated.
If you know a deserving Filipino woman who fits this description, we encourage you to submit a nomination!
E-mail pinaysmbinc@gmail.com to request a nomination form.
Completed packages must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on December 15, 2025.
Each May, Pinays Manitoba Inc. celebrates exceptional Filipino women who have made a profound impact on the local, national, and even global stage. Pinay is a term that refers to a woman of Filipino descent, highlighting the proud heritage of these remarkable leaders.
The fabulous senior ladies of FILCASA proudly show off their “awards” with MP Kevin Lamoureux. (L-
r): Miss Mindanao Lou Garcia, Miss Luzon Merlin Laudato, MP Kevin Lamoureux, Miss FILCASA Ella Yambao, longest-staying resident (30 years) Nanay Lolit Bautista, Miss Manila Virgie Gonzales, and Miss Visayas Nelly Moranon.
MP for Winnipeg North Kevin Lamoureux honours 93-year-old Nanay Dolores “Dory” Ramirez with a Certificate of Recognition as the oldest resident of FILCASA.
residing in the seniors/ family non-profit housing complex. Member of Parliament
for Winnipeg North, Kevin Lamoureux, graced the occasion as guest of honour. In a heartfelt tribute, the
housing co-op was officially renamed Villa Fel Rodriguez in honour of its founding president, the late Mr. Fel Rodriguez.
Tenants of the 29-unit housing community enjoyed a day of celebration filled with delicious food and warm camaraderie.
MP Kevin with Miss FILCASA Ella Yambao Miss Luzon Merlin Laudato with her dad MP Kevin with Nanay Lolit Bautista MP Kevin with Gerry Laudato
