Volume 22 • No. 21 • November 1 - 15, 2026 Publication Mailing Account #41721512
Maris Racal
Kamote, barako and a healthy lifestyle
Credit: Maris IG
Nana Bina’s recipe for longevity
Maris Racal shares Best Actress honour See story on page 10
ALAMIN ANG INYONG KAPALARAN Basahin sa pahina 12
At 90, Bina Tayaotao Pitas, fondly known as Nana Bina, still finds comfort in the simple things that have been part of her life since childhood: a cup of homegrown barako coffee and boiled sweet potato, or kamote. Her secret to longevity may not be found in expensive supplements or complicated diets, but in the familiar routines she has followed for decades. “I grew up with it. My mother planted coffee in our backyard when I was little, and we continue to harvest the beans for our regular coffee,” Nana Bina recalled. Her daily routine remains refreshingly simple. She drinks a small cup of barako coffee in the morning and another in the afternoon, usually accompanied by boiled kamote. Boiled vegetables are staples in her diet, although she occasionally enjoys a little meat with rice. She also
Bina Pitas, 90, receives the PHP10,000 cash gift from the National Commission of Senior Citizens in Baguio City on October 12, 2026. Nana Bina advised the youth to eat healthy and maintain an active lifestyle. PNA photo by Liza T. Agoot takes a nutritional supplement recommended by her doctor. Nana Bina prefers
uncomplicated meals prepared without additives. She encourages See KAMOTE p5
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Recognizing the signs of early dementia
At some point in our lives, many of us will notice memory changes in our beloved grandparents, parents, Titas and Titos, and other important elders. In 2025, an estimated 771,939 people in Canada were living with dementia, according to the Alzheimer Society of Canada. More than 414 Canadians develop dementia each day, and projections suggest that nearly one million people could be living with the condition by 2030. By 2050, that number could exceed 1.7 million. These figures highlight the growing importance of recognizing early symptoms, seeking medical advice and ensuring that individuals and families receive the support they need Dementia affects far more than memory. It can influence communication, reasoning, behaviour, independence and relationships. Although it is more common among older adults,
dementia is not an inevitable part of ageing. Understanding the early signs can help people access an assessment sooner, plan effectively, and make informed decisions about their care. What is early dementia? Dementia is a general term for symptoms caused by diseases or conditions that damage the brain. It can affect memory, thinking, language, judgement and the ability to manage everyday activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause, but other forms include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. Early dementia refers to the initial stage when changes in cognitive abilities may begin to interfere with daily life. Symptoms often develop gradually, making them easy to overlook or dismiss as normal ageing, stress or tiredness. Occasionally forgetting a name or misplacing keys is common.
However, repeatedly forgetting recent conversations, struggling with familiar tasks or experiencing increasing confusion may indicate something that deserves further investigation. It is important to remember that memory problems do not automatically mean dementia. Depression, sleep difficulties, medication side effects, vitamin deficiencies and other medical conditions can cause similar symptoms. A healthcare professional can help identify the underlying cause. Recognizing the early warning signs The early symptoms of dementia vary from person to person. Some of the most common warning signs include: 1. Memory changes that affect everyday life A person may frequently forget recently learned information, repeat questions or rely increasingly on reminders and family members to remember appointments. 2. Difficulty completing familiar tasks Everyday activities that once felt easy, such as preparing a familiar meal, managing household finances or following a regular routine, may become increasingly challenging. 3. Problems with language and communication Someone may struggle to find the right word, lose track of conversations, repeat themselves or find it difficult to follow discussions. 4. Confusion about time and place A person may lose track of dates, forget where they are going or become disoriented in a once familiar place. 5. Changes in judgement and decision-making There may be difficulty managing money, recognizing risks, making appropriate decisions or evaluating situations. 6. Changes in mood, personality or behaviour Some people become anxious, irritable, withdrawn or unusually suspicious. Others may lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed. 7. Misplacing items and struggling to retrace steps Although anyone can misplace belongings, a person experiencing dementia may put things in unusual places and be unable to work out how they got there. One symptom alone does not establish a diagnosis. What matters is a noticeable pattern of changes, particularly when these changes become more frequent or interfere with independence. Why early diagnosis matters Seeking medical advice early can make a meaningful difference. An assessment may identify a treatable cause of cognitive changes or help determine whether dementia is present and what type may be involved.
Although there is currently no cure for most forms of dementia, diagnosis can open the door to treatments, symptom management, community services and practical support. For some people with Alzheimer’s disease, specific treatments may be appropriate depending on the stage of illness, overall health and eligibility. An early diagnosis also gives individuals more opportunity to express their wishes, participate in decisions about their future, review finances and legal arrangements, and discuss driving, living arrangements and care preferences. Just as importantly, it can help family members understand what is happening. Rather than interpreting memory difficulties or behavioural changes as carelessness or stubbornness, families can learn how to respond with patience, empathy and appropriate support. What to do if you notice symptoms If you are concerned about yourself or someone close to you, arrange an appointment with a family doctor or other healthcare professional. Write down examples of the changes you have noticed, when they began and how they affect daily life. A list of medications and relevant health concerns can also be helpful. Where possible, encourage the person experiencing symptoms to participate in the conversation. Approach the subject calmly, focus on specific concerns and avoid making accusations or jumping to conclusions. If confusion or memory problems appear suddenly, particularly alongside weakness, difficulty speaking or other new neurological symptoms, seek emergency medical attention. Sudden changes can indicate an urgent medical condition rather than typical progressive dementia. While awaiting an assessment, maintaining social connections, staying physically active, getting sufficient sleep, managing blood pressure and diabetes, and addressing hearing or vision difficulties can support overall health and well-being. These steps cannot guarantee prevention, but they may help reduce certain risk factors associated with dementia. The Alzheimer Society: A trusted resource for support No one needs to navigate dementia alone. The Alzheimer
Society provides information, education, guidance and support for people experiencing cognitive changes, those living with dementia and their families. The society can help individuals understand symptoms, prepare for medical appointments, explore community services, access support groups and plan for changing care needs. In Manitoba, the First Link Dementia Helpline offers confidential support, and you do not need a formal diagnosis to reach out. Contact information Alzheimer Society of Manitoba • Dementia Helpline: 1-800378-6699 (toll-free in Manitoba) • Winnipeg phone: 204-9436622 • Email: support@alzheimer. mb.ca • Address: Unit 10, 120 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4G2 • Website: alzheimer.mb.ca • Helpline hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Moving forward with understanding and hope An early dementia diagnosis can bring uncertainty, fear, and many questions. However, recognizing the warning signs and seeking appropriate guidance can help individuals and families approach the future with greater understanding and confidence. Compassion, patience and open communication are essential. People experiencing cognitive changes deserve to be treated with dignity, included in decisions and supported in maintaining their independence for as long as possible. If you have noticed persistent changes in your memory or thinking, or are concerned about someone you love, consider speaking with a healthcare professional. Reaching out to the Alzheimer Society can also provide valuable guidance, reassurance and practical resources. Early recognition is not assuming the worst; it is understanding what is happening, exploring available support, and helping people live as well as possible. Disclaimer: This article is for general information and education only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Cheryl Dizon-Reynante is a licensed therapist with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.
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GCF Winnipeg celebrates 15th anniversary
Greenhills Christian Fellowship (GCF) Winnipeg marked its 15th anniversary on October 4, 2026, bringing together members and guests for a special celebration of faith, fellowship and the church’s continued growth. Pastor Reymus Cagampan
and the GCF board of directors welcomed everyone to commemorate this milestone and celebrate the church’s journey over the past 15 years. Guided by its Vision 3E: Evangelize, Empower and Equip, GCF Winnipeg remains committed to
sharing the Gospel, strengthening believers in their faith, and equipping them to serve others. Those interested in joining the fellowship are welcome to attend Sunday worship services at 10:30 a.m. at 777 Pritchard Avenue in Winnipeg.
GCF-Winnipeg’s Pastor Reymus Cagampan (3rd from left) with the 2026 directors of the board.
Members with families and guests gather to celebrate GCF-Winnipeg’s 15th anniversary. Photos by Jana Villanueva.
KAMOTE... From page 1 her children and grandchildren to avoid fast food and make healthier food choices, hoping they will live to at least 80. Her family history may also offer a clue to her remarkable longevity. One of her sisters lived to 105, although genetics alone cannot explain how long a person lives. Keeping active, taking care Even at her age, Nana Bina tries to keep moving. When the weather permits, she walks around the yard, sweeps and
enjoys some sunshine. Although leg pain has made farming difficult, she remains mindful of the importance of staying active while avoiding falls. She began taking medication for high blood pressure at 85 and now uses a walking stick for support. Her children accompany her on outings, providing the assistance she needs to remain safe. “I take care of myself so that God will give me more years of life,” she said. Her approach reflects several principles supported by research on healthy ageing. A balanced diet
rich in vegetables, fruits and other nutritious foods, regular physical activity suited to one’s abilities, sufficient sleep, preventive medical care and meaningful connections with family and friends can all contribute to healthier later years. No single food, including kamote or coffee, guarantees a longer life. Genetics, living conditions and access to healthcare also matter. For older adults, even gentle movement and everyday household activities can help maintain mobility and independence. Staying socially connected can also support
physical and mental well-being. A milestone worth celebrating Nana Bina hopes to reach 100. Her optimism and family support are central to her story, as is her determination to care for herself while accepting help when needed. Recently, she joined more than 400 senior citizens who received a PHP10,000 cash gift under the Philippines’ Expanded Centenarians Act, which provides financial assistance at milestone ages, including 90. For Nana Bina, however, the money has a deeply personal purpose. She hopes to give it to
her children to help cover funeralrelated expenses when her time comes. For now, her daily pleasures remain much simpler: a little kamote, homegrown barako coffee, movement when she can manage it, and the company of family. Perhaps her story’s most enduring lesson is that healthy ageing is not about discovering one magical secret. It is about nurturing everyday habits, appreciating life’s simple comforts and taking each day as it comes. Source: Philippine News Agency (PNA)
OUR HEALTH
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PILIPINO EXPRESS
NOVEMBER 1 - 15, 2026
Smart, simple ways to stay well this respiratory illness season As the fall and winter respiratory virus season arrives, simple but important hand hygiene remains a core line of defence. Marking Global Handwashing Day on October 15 served as a reminder that this simple habit helps prevent the spread of germs and keeps seasonal illness at bay. After coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose, respiratory droplets easily transfer to your hands, making hand-washing essential after tending to cold or flu symptoms. “Washing hands for 20 seconds with warm water and soap, making sure to massage soap between fingers, nails, and front and back sides of your hands, can help,” says Dr. Summer Allen, a Mayo Clinic family physician. “It can prevent illnesses such as diarrhea/ GI and/or respiratory bugs.” Dr. Allen notes that staying well during respiratory illness season is best supported by healthy daily habits, including proper hand hygiene, quality sleep, balanced nutrition, and an approach to healthcare that reflects your individual goals and priorities. “Consider speaking with your primary care clinician regarding your healthcare goals and the immunizations available to you,” says Dr. Allen. She emphasizes that handwashing does not exist in a
vacuum; it acts as a crucial anchor for overall wellness. Explaining how it applies to a broader lifestyle defence, Dr. Allen highlights its effects. “It ties most closely to protecting against illness that will lead to interruptions in sleep, and when ill, not eating properly, impacting nutrition,” says Dr. Allen. What are common handwashing mistakes? Dr. Allen underscores that fending off seasonal illness requires paying attention to detail. She notes that even with the best intentions, people often unknowingly make mistakes in their own hygiene efforts. When trying to fend off cold and flu symptoms, Dr. Allen points out a frequent oversight. “Often, the length of time and/ or forgetting to cover all surfaces of their hands and fingers or using their clean hand to turn off the faucet can be something that is missed,” says Dr. Allen. She adds that if soap and water aren’t available, hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 per cent alcohol is a second choice. How should you wash your hands? To properly wash your hands, follow these steps: • Wet your hands with clean, running water. •Apply any kind of soap, and
lather well. • Rub your hands vigorously for at least 20 seconds. Remember to scrub all surfaces, including the backs of your hands, wrists, palms, between your fingers and under your fingernails. • Rinse well. • Use a clean towel to turn off the faucet and dry your hands.
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Pinays Manitoba moves forward
Pinays Manitoba Inc. held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on October 18, 2026, at the Sir William Stephenson Library on Keewatin Street in Winnipeg. Members gathered to elect its incoming board of directors for the term beginning January 2027. Elected directors, listed alphabetically, are Tes Aiello, Araceli Ancheta, Connie De Villa, Emmie Joaquin, Marita Salazar and Jocelyn Striemer. In accordance with the organization’s ratified bylaws, four additional members were appointed to the board: Remy Amoyo, Regina Ramos-Urbano, Myrna Ong and Luella Sadicon. The AGM reaffirmed Pinays Manitoba’s commitment to celebrating Filipino women’s achievements, developing leadership and creating opportunities for meaningful community involvement.
CHEERS to 80 years, Rose!
Mama Rose Bigornia with husband Eugene, children (l-r) Ezell, Rose, and Loven
With Felly Grieve of A1 Nutrition
Friends forever
A cherished family member, a beloved friend, and a woman who brings people together, Rose Bigornia celebrates eight wonderful decades in grand style on October 3, 2026.
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SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS
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Maricel Soriano, Maris Racal share Best Actress honour Veteran actress Maricel Soriano and rising star Maris Racal shared the Best Actress award at the 42nd Star Awards for Movies, held Sunday at Winford Hotel in Manila, in recognition of their performances in Meet, Greet, and Bye and Sunshine, respectively. Soriano expressed her gratitude to her co-stars Piolo Pascual, Joshua Garcia, Juan Karlos Labajo and Belle Mariano, as well as director Cathy Garcia-Sampana and production company Star Cinema. Racal, meanwhile, reflected on the rejections and criticisms she had faced throughout her acting career, saying these experiences had made her stronger. She also thanked her management, Star Magic, for its continued support. Jericho Rosales won Best Actor for his portrayal in Quezon but was unable to attend the ceremony because of a prior commitment. Director Jerrold Tarog accepted the award on his behalf. In one of the evening’s surprises, Lester Pimentel Ong took home Best Director for The Delivery Rider, starring Baron Geisler, Jake Cuenca and Jennica Garcia. Richard Quan also scored an unexpected win, claiming Best Supporting Actor for How to Get Away from My Toxic Family. Meanwhile, Sylvia Sanchez added another accolade to her collection with a Best Supporting Actress win for I’m Perfect. The awards also celebrated promising newcomers and popular on-screen partnerships. Krystel Go was named New
Movie Actress of the Year for I’m Perfect, while JM Ibarra won New Movie Actor of the Year for Child No. 82. Ibarra and his on-screen partner, Fyang Smith, were named Love Team of the Year. The pair thanked their devoted fans for supporting them since the beginning of their careers. In the special awards category, Kapamilya stars Vice Ganda and Nadine Lustre were named Takilya King and Takilya Queen, respectively. Both were unable to personally accept their honours because of prior commitments. The night’s most memorable moment belonged to movie icon Vilma Santos, who made history as the first actress inducted into the Philippine Movie Press Club’s (PMPC) Hall of Fame. The tribute celebrated her remarkable career and enduring contribution to Philippine cinema. Santos received a heartfelt musical serenade from her longtime on-screen partner Edgar “Bobot” Mortiz and close friend Tirso Cruz III. The nearly hourlong tribute featured highlights from her legendary films, drawing enthusiastic cheers from devoted fans and culminating in a minute-long standing ovation from the audience. The ceremony also honoured three pillars of Philippine entertainment with Lifetime Achievement Awards: Megastar Sharon Cuneta, veteran actor Rez Cortez and Alex Muhlach. From industry legends to emerging talents, the 42nd Star Awards for Movies celebrated the people and performances that continue to shape Philippine cinema. ABS CBN News
Piolo Pascual
Maricel Soriano and Maris Racal
Joshua Garcia
Belle Mariano
Nadine Lustre
Fyang Smith
Sharon Cuneta
Jerico Rosales
Jake Cuenca
KimPau reunite in MMFF entry A Perfect Marriage
Fans of Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino, collectively known as KimPau, have another reason to look forward to Christmas as the popular onscreen tandem reunites in A Perfect Marriage, an upcoming romantic drama set to premiere on December 25 as an official entry to the 52nd Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). Produced by Quantum Films and directed by Dan Villegas, the film brings together the two stars in a story that promises to go beyond the familiar kilig moments of a romantic love story. With a screenplay by Chris Martinez and Therese Cayaba, the movie explores the
complexities of married life, the pain of unfulfilled promises and the challenges couples face while trying to build a family. At the heart of the story is a married couple whose journey is tested by years of grief, secrets and unexpected struggles. The film also tackles in-vitro fertilization (IVF), bringing the science and emotional realities of fertility treatment into a deeply personal story about love, sacrifice and the desire to have a child. Rather than presenting marriage as a fairy-tale ending, A Perfect Marriage reportedly takes a more realistic look at what happens behind closed
doors, where love can be tested by difficult choices, disappointment and the weight of unspoken feelings. The combination of heartfelt drama, relatable relationship struggles and moments of humour offers a different dimension to the KimPau pairing. The project also gives Chiu and Avelino another opportunity to showcase their dramatic range and the onscreen chemistry that has drawn a devoted following. Their popularity has continued to generate excitement among fans, particularly after their successful big-screen pairing in My Love See KIMPAU p11
Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino
NOVEMBER 1 - 15, 2026
KIMPAU... From page 10 Will Make You Disappear. While admirers continue to speculate about the nature of their off-screen closeness, the two actors have maintained their professional partnership. Their latest collaboration shifts the spotlight to a more mature subject, one that may resonate with couples and families who have faced challenges in pursuing their dreams of parenthood.
PILIPINO EXPRESS
With its emotionally charged subject matter and a creative team experienced in Filipino cinema, A Perfect Marriage is shaping up to be a compelling addition to this year’s MMFF lineup. For KimPau fans, the reunion promises romance, drama and plenty to talk about. For moviegoers, it offers a chance to reflect on a question that goes beyond the wedding vows: What does it really take to make a marriage work? Pilipino Express
Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino
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EH KASI, PINOY!
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PILIPINO EXPRESS
KAPALARAN
KROSWORD NO. 500
NOBYEMBRE 1-15 2026
Ni Bro. Gerry Gamurot
Nobyembre na! Habang naghahanda ang marami para sa mas malamig na panahon at papalapit na holiday season, may mga pagkakataong hindi mo inaasahan. May bagong darating, pero may kailangan ka munang bitawan. Baka ang hinihintay mong pagbabago ay magsimula sa isang simpleng “Sige, subukan natin.” ARIES (Marso 21 – Abril 19) May pagkakataong maipakita ang iyong leadership sa trabaho o negosyo. Pero hindi lahat ay kailangang ikaw ang magdesisyon. Sa pag-ibig, baka kailangan mong aminin na nasaktan ka rin. Hindi kahinaan ang pagiging tapat sa nararamdaman. TAURUS (Abril 20 – Mayo 20) May magandang ideya tungkol sa pera, pero pag-aralan muna bago gumastos o mamuhunan. Sa romance, isang maliit na gesture ang maaaring magpaalala kung bakit mo pinili ang taong mahal mo. Single? Huwag agad balewalain ang isang tahimik pero consistent na admirer. GEMINI (Mayo 21 – Hunyo 20) May balitang maaaring magbukas ng bagong oportunidad. Makinig, magtanong, at alamin ang detalye bago sumang-ayon. Sa love life, may mensaheng maaaring magbalik ng dating kilig. Pero tanungin muna ang sarili namimiss mo ba ang tao, o ang pakiramdam noong magkasama pa kayo? CANCER (Hunyo 21 – Hulyo 22) May family concern na maaaring mangailangan ng iyong malasakit, pero magtakda rin ng boundaries. Hindi mo kailangang pasanin ang lahat. Sa pag-ibig, isang honest conversation ang maaaring maglinaw sa matagal nang hindi napag-uusapan. LEO (Hulyo 23 – Agosto 22) May pagkakataong mapansin ang iyong talento, kaya huwag magtago sa likod ng iba. Sa romance, maaaring may taong humingi ng mas maraming oras at atensyon. Baka kailangan mong patunayan na hindi puro salita ang iyong pagmamahal. VIRGO (Agosto 23 – Setyembre 22) May planong kailangang baguhin, at baka mas magandang oportunidad pa ang kapalit nito. Huwag piliting kontrolin ang lahat. Sa relasyon, minsan ang sobrang pag-aanalisa ay lumilikha ng problemang wala naman talaga. Huminga muna bago maghinala.
Phone: 204-956-7845 E-Mail: info@pilipino-express.com Website: www.pilipino-express.com
LIBRA (Setyembre 23 – Oktubre 22) May bagong kakilala o invitation na maaaring magdala ng interesting connection. Maging bukas, pero panatilihin ang iyong good judgment. Sa pag-ibig, huwag laging ikaw ang unang umiintindi. Kailangan ding matutong makinig ang kabilang panig. SCORPIO (Oktubre 23 – Nobyembre 21) Birthday season mo, at may isang bagay na maaaring magbigay sa iyo ng bagong pananaw. Huwag matakot magsimula muli. Sa romance, maaaring may katotohanang lumabas nang hindi inaasahan. Harapin ito nang mahinahon bago magdesisyon. SAGITTARIUS (Nobyembre 22 – Disyembre 21) May pagkakataong lumabas sa routine at subukan ang bago. Isang simpleng invitation ang maaaring maging simula ng magandang connection. Sa love life, huwag ipagpaliban ang oras para sa taong mahalaga sa iyo. CAPRICORN (Disyembre 22 – Enero 19) May responsabilidad na maaaring dumagdag, kaya bantayan ang iyong energy at budget. Hindi kailangang ikaw ang laging sumasalo. Sa pag-ibig, ipakita ang lambing habang may pagkakataon. Hindi lahat ng mahalagang sandali ay puwedeng ulitin. AQUARIUS (Enero 20 – Pebrero 18) May kakaibang ideya na maaaring maging kapaki-pakinabang kung bibigyan mo ng panahon. Sa romance, may taong maaaring magulat sa iyong pagiging direct. Mabuti iyon, basta sabihin ang totoo nang may respeto. PISCES (Pebrero 19 – Marso 20) May kaibigan o kapamilya na maaaring magbigay ng payong kailangan mong marinig. Huwag agad tanggihan dahil lamang hindi iyon ang gusto mong sagot. Sa pag-ibig, ang consistency ang mas mahalaga kaysa matatamis na pangako.
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PAUL MORROW
PAHALANG 2. Hadlangan 9. Aburido 11. Asal 13. Kita 14. Sarado 15. Ipakikilala 17. Hindi akin 18. Habag 20. Imbakan ng tubig 22. Kalunya 26. Biyaka 29. Pinapatnubayan 32. Ampon 33. Iligaw 34. Dalubhasa 35. Kapos 36. Inistorbo
10. Apuhap 12. Kulay-ubi 16. Uri ng hayop 19. Tiwala 21. Walang asawa 23. Hilera 24. Ginapas 25. Patong 26. Sundalo 27. Kalye sa Makati 28. Mali 30. Kahalintulad 31. Epekto
SAGOT SA NO. 499
PABABA 1. Noong una 2. Walang tigil 3. Itinda 4. Dako 5. Tiklop 6. Malaking ibon 7. Umit 8. Parteng katawan
Paalala: Ang horoscope ay gabay lamang at para sa kasiyahan ng ating mga mambabasa.
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NOVEMBER 1 - 15, 2026
Columnists/Contributors: LEVY ABAD DALE BURGOS JB CASARES
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NOVEMBER 1 - 15, 2026
OUR COMMUNITY PILIPINO EXPRESS
Walking with nature: a day of reflection, connection, and environmental stewardship by Ann Evangelista What began as an invitation to come together for a walk became an opportunity for reflection, connection and renewed commitment to caring for the environment. More than 30 participants boarded a bus and travelled together to the Brokenhead Wetland Interpretive Trail and Patricia Beach, creating a day that brought people together through nature, learning and community. The group was welcomed and guided through the experience by Paul Trevenen, a Lake Winnipeg Foundation (LWF) volunteer and tour guide, who shared his knowledge and helped participants discover the natural surroundings along the trail. The event was organized with the support of the Lake Winnipeg Foundation, with Kanak Kulhari, Community Engagement Coordinator, helping facilitate community engagement and participation. Mhao Palevino of Caring for our Environment - Manitoba (CEM), supported by its president Ramon Sales, spearheaded the project, bringing together community members for an experience that connected environmental awareness with personal reflection and collective action. The guided nature walk was designed to build environmental awareness while creating space for participants to reconnect with nature and with one another. Beyond simply observing the landscape, participants were encouraged to pause, listen and reflect on their personal relationship with the environment and the challenges facing ecosystems such as Lake Winnipeg. The reflective experience was inspired by Joanna Macy’s Work That Reconnects, a framework that encourages people to acknowledge their relationship with the natural world, process difficult emotions
about environmental challenges and move toward meaningful action. Participants were guided through four stages of reflection. The first, Gratitude, invited walkers to consider what they appreciated about the environment around them and to recall memories or experiences connected to water, land and wildlife. The second, Honouring Our Pain for the World, created space to acknowledge concerns and emotions surrounding environmental change. Participants reflected on changes they have witnessed and how environmental challenges affect them personally. The third stage, Seeing with New Eyes, encouraged participants to consider their connection to the ecosystem and Lake Winnipeg and to notice what they may have overlooked or discovered during the walk. Finally, Going Forth turned reflection into action. Participants considered one small step they could take to support environmental care and how they could contribute to protecting their communities and surrounding ecosystems. The walk also included periods of quiet reflection, followed by an optional small-group sharing session where participants could exchange thoughts and experiences. The day was made possible through the collective efforts of organizers, volunteers and community participants. A special “thank you” goes to Paul for guiding the group, to all Lake Winnipeg Foundation volunteers, and to everyone who took the time to participate. More than a walk, the gathering demonstrated how time spent in nature can create opportunities for community connection, personal reflection and environmental stewardship. As more than 30 people travelled together, walked the trails and reflected on their
relationship with the natural world, the experience offered a simple but meaningful message: Caring for the environment begins with noticing, connecting, and choosing to act. And sometimes, that first step begins with simply taking a walk together. Ann Evangelista is the Information and Communication Committee Head of the CEM and is currently the Chair of WSD Environmental Advisory Committee
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Music has been part of Brady Barrientos’ life even before he was born. Literally. “My mom is an amazing singer. She would perform while she was pregnant with me. My dad plays guitar too.” It figures then that there’s an old home video of toddler Brady singing along to Sister Act 2! Growing up, Brady remembers admiring his cousin Melvin Luna at the piano. “He was, and still is, the coolest guy I know. I always wanted to be like him, so I learned to play the piano.” Another influential cousin, Aiza Luna, is the family’s powerhouse singer. “She has been on Rainbow Stage and has won in singing competitions,” he proudly says. Add family videoke sessions and musically talented parents and cousins, and it’s hardly surprising that Brady found his way onto the stage. Today, the University of Manitoba Faculty of Music graduate (and Dean’s Lister) is building a career as an actor, singer, musician, and teacher. A place for Filipino stories His theatre career received an important push in Joseph Sevillo’s Ma-Buhay! A New Musical. Aside from this being his first paid theatre gig, “It put a lot of eyes on the plethora of Filipino talent in the city, and a lot of eyes on me, too,” he says. Brady remembers jam sessions with Joseph when the musical was still in its development stage. “He would sing the melody with the lyrics he was thinking of, and I would play chords and textures under it,” he recalls. As David Caballero in the Ma-Buhay! workshops, Brady had many memorable moments. “Singing Awit ng Pag-asa to an audience during the script reading at Rainbow Stage felt like I had a place somewhere, that there is space for stories like mine to be told.” His Filipino identity also finds its way into other productions, sometimes unintentionally. “As a Filipino it’s inevitable that my culture will somehow seep into my work. Not always out of a deliberate choice, but just because I am who I am.” A thousand miles an hour Playing the lead in Manitoba Theatre for Young People’s The Lightning Thief taught Brady something about himself. It was
PILIPINO EXPRESS
his first time leading a show as the main character. “I got one 20-second break where I wasn’t on stage. Otherwise, I was on the whole time!” Fortunately, his constantly racing mind proved useful. “It made me realize that my hyperactive psyche that is perpetually running a thousand miles an hour can be used as a superpower when I have to remember so many details about my track.” Memorizing his music before rehearsals allowed Brady to concentrate on exploring his character. “I was able to focus on playing and trying new things, instead of worrying about words,” he says. It’s a practice he now brings to every production, including his latest, Next to Normal. Running in the first week of November, Next to Normal is a rock musical that explores mental health, grief, loss, family relationships, and the limits of modern psychiatry. Brady is one of several Filipino Canadians in the cast and creative team, something he believes gives the show an added dimension. “The mostly Filipino cast adds a deeper layer to a story about family trauma and the struggle to talk about it,” he shares. Helping others feel seen Along with his passion for theatre, Brady’s first love for singing continues to this day. He now performs with his partner Kris Cahatol as the pop-folk duo violent affection. The two have also begun writing together, a project they hope to revisit. Beyond performing, Brady teaches music at St. John’sRavenscourt School. One young Filipino piano student has given him a new perspective on what being an artist means. “Seeing the same bright, brown Filipino eyes that I had when I was six and learning piano gave me a sense that, suddenly, I was in the shoes of all the Filipino artists and mentors I looked up to.”
NOVEMBER 1 - 15, 2026
Brady Barrientos: A place in the spotlight, a place for others
Singer, actor, musician, and teacher Brady Barrientos is carving out his place in Winnipeg’s performing arts scene, bringing his Filipino heritage and boundless energy to the stage. (Photo by Kevin McIntyre.)
From whimsical characters to more grounded roles, Brady Barrientos shows his versatility as Seth in Kimberly Akimbo. (Dry Cold Productions, 2026. Set by Kari Hagness, costumes by Esther Koepnick, lighting by Larry Isacoff, photo by Kayla Gordon.)
Brady Barrientos as Flounder in The Little Mermaid. (L-R: Laura Kolisnyk, Megan Fry, Esethu Gwintsa, Brady Barrientos, Lia Loewen, Catherine Wreford, Dutchess Cayetano. Rainbow Stage, 2023. Set & props by Brian Perchaluk, lighting by Scott Henderson, make-up by Christian Hadley, costumes by Kansas City Costume Company, photo by Robert Tinker.) If there’s anything that Brady wants to come out of his career, it would be to make that kid feel like he has a place in music. “I want to make that kid feel seen, the same way others have made me feel seen.” And perhaps that’s the most meaningful role Brady will ever play. Next to Normal runs November 4 to 8 at the Université de Saint Boniface. Visit www. winnipegstudiotheatre.com for information.
Who are you? Brady Barrientos takes on the whimsical role of the Caterpillar in Alice in Wonderland, one of the many colourful characters in his growing theatre resumé. (L-R: Victor Pokinko, Kara Joseph, Landon Doak, Colleen Furlan, Paula Potosky, Fiona Sauder, Brady Barrientos. MTYP, 2022. Costumes by Ming Wong, lighting by Logan Raju Cracknell.)
Making music together, Brady Barrientos and his partner Kris Cahatol perform as violent affection, a pop-folk duo. The two have also been working on an original musical. (Photo by Rein Cabalquinto.)
Brady Barrientos plays the music-loving Schroeder in A Charlie Brown Double Bill, a fitting role for the classically trained musician. (L-R: Kristian Cahatol, Brady Barrientos, Hazel Wallace. MTYP, 2022. Set, props & costumes by Gillian Gallow, lighting by Hugh Conacher, photo by Leif Norman.)
NOVEMBER 1 - 15, 2026
PILIPINO EXPRESS
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Lou Fernandez: From PAM to PCCM Lou Fernandez emigrated from Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines, to Winnipeg in 1978. He served as president of the PhilippineCanadian Centre of Manitoba (PCCM) from 2014 to 2016 and became its treasurer in 2024 under the leadership of President Virginia Gayot. With a bachelor’s degree in commerce and a Master of Business Administration, Lou worked as an accountant, program and planning analyst, paralegal, and senior immigration officer. In the 1990s, he was part of the team that developed the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). Having known many of the Philippine Association of Manitoba’s (PAM) former leaders, he witnessed much of the organization’s history. The May 16–31, 2023, issue of the Pilipino Express identified him as PAM president during negotiations with the City of Winnipeg for the PCCM’s 50-year land lease. In one of my forays to the Manitoba archive to research our community, I learned that in the swearing-in ceremony of PAM’s executive on December 31, 1987, Lou was sworn in as finance, along with Jean Guiang as president, Raul Bautista as 1st vice-president, John Gano as 2nd vice-president, Regina Ramos as secretary, Angie Maduro as treasurer, Osmund Sto. Domingo as auditor, and Art Domingo as PRO. On November 11, 1990,
PAM elected a new set of board members, and Lou Fernandez was among them. Eventually, for the 1995-1996 term, he became PAM’s president in an election held on December 12, 1994. The rest of the officers were: Fel Rodriguez - 1st vice president, Tony Polvorosa - 2nd vice president, Sally Abesamis - secretary, Ric dela Cruz treasurer, Robert Robles - internal auditor, Julie Esteban - finance secretary, and Florencio Antonio - PRO. In an article titled “PAM president renews call for responsible community leadership” by Fran Pagtakhan, Lou “expanded on the theme of voluntarism when he reminded the audience that PAM was their association and that they are encouraged to become both supportive and active as members (Filipino Journal, January 15-31, 1995). It is worth mentioning that during the conference of the National Canadian Council of Filipino Associations (NCCFA) on October 9-11, 1992, in Toronto, Ontario, a new executive council was elected headed by Salvador Cabugan. It was at the same conference that Lou was elected as the regional rep / VP for Manitoba. Another Winnipegger, Victor Nombrado, was elected as a member of the executive committee (Filipino Journal, 1992). In all of these, Lou was able to navigate both community
leadership and federal formations. The period when Lou Fernandez was involved in community leadership as finance officer under the leadership of Jean Guiang in 1987, as a board member in 1991, and then as president of PAM in 1995-96, is quite interesting. There were crucial community issues that PAM got directly or indirectly involved with. Among them were the founding of the Filipino Domestic Workers Association in Manitoba (FIDWAM) in April 1988; the Sally Espineli campaign that addressed her deportation (“Sally Espinelli hopes against hope,” Filipino Journal, March/ April. 1989); PAM receiving the unanimous approval to pursue the negotiation for the Philippine Centre Relocation Project in 1991 (Filipino Journal, February 1991). From October 11 to 13, 1991, the National Council of Canadian Filipino Associations held its first Board of Directors’ meeting in Winnipeg with the theme, “National Unity: Our role in the future of Canada.” The year 1992 marked the 22nd anniversary of Nayong Pilipino as a cultural arm of PAM. The following year, 1993, the Filipino community came together for a peaceful protest of the alleged racism at Superstore. The protest became the headline of the Winnipeg Free Press (“Angry Filipinos Rally,” Sunday, May 9, 1993). The Filipino Journal had for its headline, “Says No! To alleged
racism at Superstore.” The protest called for a mass gathering at Little Mountain Park with the slogan, “No to racism!” (1993, p. 14). The protest was organized by the Filipino Coalition for Human Rights (Filcohr), where Lou Fernandez attended as a member. This shows that all through the years, Lou has been actively
involved in the community as a volunteer. Nowadays, you can see Lou leading during Folklorama as part of the Mabuhay Philippines Pavilion. Lou and his wife, Leah, have operated a successful day spa for the past 13 years. Through the ebb and flow of our community here in Winnipeg, Lou has always dedicated his time to serve.
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PILIPINO EXPRESS
NOVEMBER 1 - 15, 2026