Anita Gomez
who are
Canada’s Great Kitchen Party
Winnipeg’s culinary scene came alive at Canada’s Great Kitchen Party, where local chefs battled for regional glory and a spot at the Canadian Culinary Championship in Ottawa on January 30-31, 2026. Chef Emily Butcher of Bar Accanto claimed the gold with her show-stopping dish: Smoked duck and squash dumpling, massaman curry, fermented kohlrabi salad with black pepper glazed octopus, leche de tigre, pickled eggplant, toasted peanut, paired with Rosewood 2021 Riesling. Filipino-Canadian chefs made a memorable mark: Chef Norman Pastorin of Basta! Filipino Kitchen earned bronze with his inventive Rhubarb Sinigang –
The 2025 Trailblazer Awardees: Michele Majul-Ibarra, Ethel Fernandez, and Teresita Chiarella together with (front, seated) Outstanding Young Pinay Dr. Mira Villegas and Pinays Manitoba Legacy Awardee, Perla Javate. Photo by Rey-Ar Reyes
Gold medal winner Emily Butcher (centre) of Bar Accanto with bronze
medalist Norman Pastorin (left) of Basta! Filipino Kitchen and silver medalist Thermea Spa’s Darnell Banman.
Recently, I had the opportunity to deliver a session to a group of leaders on the topic of communicating in conflict. Being a front-line leader often comes with it the challenge of dealing with difficult conversations with staff – whether it relates to performance issues, attendance and interpersonal conflict. In the session I covered some simple yet effective communication strategies from active listening, reframing statements to using “I” statements in conversations. How a leader manages these moments defines their leadership. However, the strategies covered here are not only great tools for leaders but also essential for navigating peer-topeer conflict in any professional or personal setting.
The key to turning stressful confrontations into constructive dialogues lies not merely in what we say, but in how we listen. The most powerful tool for effective conflict resolution is active listening.
Active listening
Active listening is a communication technique that requires the listener to fully concentrate, understand, respond, and then remember what is being
said. It’s much more than just hearing words; it’s about discerning the underlying meaning, emotion, and intent. Some techniques used in active listening are reframing, paraphrasing and summarizing. In conflict, this practice is critical because it directly tackles the trio of psychological traps that fuel disagreement: assumptions, perceptions, and expectations. When conflict arises, it’s rarely about just the surface issue. Instead, it’s often driven by invisible forces that must be addressed, regardless of rank.
Assumptions
Whether you’re a leader addressing a staff member or addressing a coworker, it’s easy to fall into the trap of assuming negative intent. “They’re being deliberately difficult,” or “They don’t respect my timeline.” In a heated moment, we often assume we know the other person’s motivation, leading us to react to our own imagined narrative rather than their reality. Active listening overcomes this by requiring us to ask clarifying questions and paraphrase what we hear. By saying, “It sounds like you feel I’m not prioritizing our team’s needs on this project. Is that right?” we
We often take for granted the rights and privileges offered us by government authorities. As Canadians we receive government information that many other countries do not provide. In September 2025 IRCC announced current waiting times for applications submitted under permanent residence, temporary residence, and citizenship. The information provides an accurate picture of how the government is handling the challenges of limited housing, infrastructure needs, and health care in the face of rising immigration arrivals.
We are aware of the intentions of IRCC to cuts staff by 3,300 in the next four years and yet reduce backlogs. The answer may lie in the expanded use of AI to screen applications and other efficiency measures. The purpose of this article is to provide readers with processing times so that potential users can determine for themselves if the processing times are acceptable and understand what challenges they face now and into
the near future. We may not all like the decisions made but we’ll have a better understanding of some of the challenges we face.
Significant improvements are evident in spousal sponsorship and dependent child sponsorship for those living in Canada as well as those planning to settle in Quebec, but the improvements are not consistent across applications. Permanent Residence Application
Express Entry continues to be a popular application option for many at the federal level. The Canadian Experience Class has processing times of five months as of September 10, 2025. The time is less than the six months experienced by those applying to the Federal Skilled Worker Program. The average service standard for applications submitted to Express Entry remains at six months.
The provincial nominee programs provide an alternative for many applicants. If the provincial nominee submissions are through the enhanced Express Entry, the
Communicating in conflict
check the assumption and validate their feeling.
Perceptions
A perception is an individual’s unique way of interpreting an event. Because two people will always have different values and past experiences, their perception of the exact same situation can be very different. While one person may perceive a quick decision as efficiency, another may perceive it as a disregard for their input. Active listening demands empathy, putting oneself in the other person’s shoes, to understand their viewpoint. Acknowledging their perception, such as, “I see why you would interpret my delay in feedback as a sign that I don’t value your work, given how quickly you delivered it,” shifts the focus from winning the argument to understanding the difference.
Expectations
Unmet expectations are often the hidden root of conflict. A leader might expect proactive communication from an employee, while an employee expects clear, detailed instruction. Similarly, a coworker might expect another coworker to consult them before making a change. When these unspoken rules are violated, the resulting disappointment can fuel a breakdown. Active listening helps to bring these rules to the surface. Techniques like reflecting feelings, e.g., “I hear frustration in your voice because you expected more timely support
to get the task completed,” help both parties identify the specific, unmet expectation, allowing for a renegotiation. By replacing immediate defence and reactive speaking with active listening, we shift the conflict dynamic from attack to understand and resolve.
A quote from Joseph Ravick, a mediator, trainer, and facilitator “not letting the APE’s get you,” resonates with me as this quote refers to the powerful role that our assumptions, perceptions and expectations (aka APE) have in defining how we perceive a conflict. If left unchecked, the detrimental impact of APE will continue to fuel conflict. It is important to examine our own and the other person’s assumptions, perceptions, and expectations and how they are impacting the working relationship.
This article is intended for information purposes only and not to be considered as professional advice.
Sources https://adm.viu.ca/workplaceconflict/assumptions-perceptionsexpectations https://www. counsellingcentral.com/activelistening-techniques-paraphrasingsummarising-and-reflecting-fordeeper-connection/ Michele Majul-Ibarra, BA (Psych), IPMA-ACP, C.I.M. is a Director of Human Resources in the public sector. She holds the Advanced Certified HR Professional Designation with the International Personnel Management Association and holds the professional designation C.I.M. through Chartered Managers Canada.
IRCC announces current applications waiting times
processing times are eight months, which compares favourably to the 19 months for submissions made through the non-Express Entry route. It is frustrating for many applicants, but the provincial nominee programs provide opportunities not available to Express Entry applicants such as submissions for low skill applicants in TEER 4 or 5 occupations. The option of choosing the provincial nominee programs is not eligible for family class submissions.
The family class stream is another way to achieve permanent residency in Canada. The family sponsorship has a processing time of 23 months for spouse or common law partners living with their Canadian sponsor inside the country and intending to reside outside Quebec. The difference in processing times is also found in the Parent and Grandparent sponsorship where applicant residence is also an important factor, with those living in Canada achieving their permanent residence is a shorter time. The sponsorship of a dependent child who resides with their sponsors inside Canada is also different for a dependent child sponsored from inside Canada as opposed to those sponsored from outside the country. It now takes roughly 29 months to sponsor a child from inside Canada, which is roughly 17 months longer than sponsorship from outside the
country. Temporary Residence Applications
The processing of the three most common types of temporary residence applications also varies by type: visitor visas, work permits, and study permits. If the applicant is a resident of Canada, the processing can take roughly 15 days for processing. IRCC does not regularly post the processing times from inside the country but offer a processing time of 14 days from outside the country, although the actual times from India is 75 days, 46 days from Pakistan and 24 days from the United States. There is a difference in applications for work permits. It takes roughly 196 days for residents of Canada to have their submissions adjudicated. This compares with eight weeks from India, 12 weeks from Pakistan, 11 weeks from Nigeria and three weeks from the United States. IRCC have a published service standard of 120 days including initial work permit applications and extension requests. Outside Canada work permit applications have a service standard of 60 days except the International Experience Canada (IEC) permits, which have a 56-day service standard.
Applicants who apply for study permits from inside Canada have a current processing time of seven weeks. Permit extensions take much
longer with 171-days for applicants inside the country. Applicants from outside the country face 60 days of processing time. For visitor visas the times differ from work permit and study permit applications. IRCC has a standard of 112 days for super visas. Currently, the time for a super visa from India is roughly 153 days, 151 days for Pakistan, 51 days from Nigeria, and 78 days from the United States. Canadian Citizenship Applications
IRCC does not publish service standards for citizenship certificates. The standard processing time for grant applications is 12 months. You can use the online portal to check the processing times of your in-process applications if you have a tracking number.
The above information is not complete in terms of all IRCC application submissions but only intended to give users a rough idea of the processing times they face. If you have a file number following receipt of an Acknowledge of Receipt (AOR) letter, you may have other options to retrieve an up-to-date report on the status of the submission. But you can be assured that the immigration department values your submission and is working on completing the assessment.
Michael Scott is a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC, R525678) who has 30 years of experience with Immigration Canada and the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program. He currently works as a licensed consultant with Immigration Connexion International Ltd. Contact him at 204-691-1166 or 204-227-0292. E-mail: mscott.ici@gmail.com.
OUR HEALTH
Tips to avoid Halloween hand injuries
There are plenty of frights to go around on Halloween, but a hand injury probably isn’t one you’d expect.
“Interestingly, it’s the fourth busiest holiday for hand injuries,” says Dr. Sanj Kakar, a Mayo Clinic orthopedic hand and wrist surgeon.
Dr. Kakar says almost onethird of those Halloween hand injuries are among kids ages 10 to 14. And most of them happen when people are carving pumpkins.
“It’s primarily stabbing injuries where the knife may slip, and, so, they can cut things like tendons, which are the ropes that help move your hands,” Dr. Kakar says. “But they can also break bones, and also they can burn themselves, as well, with candles.”
But Dr. Kakar says most of the injuries are avoidable.
“A lot of people might just go to the kitchen and grab a
sharp knife. But there are good studies out there showing that actual pumpkin-specific carving knives [are safer], [because] the force needed to injure yourself is higher if you use one of those than if you use a standard knife,” he says. “So, I would use a pumpkin carving kit, No. 1.”
No. 2, Dr. Kakar says, is to let kids handle designing the jack-o’-lantern, but make sure adults do all the carving. And No. 3, make sure you’re always supporting the pumpkin with your noncutting hand.
“So, if you’re right-handed, use your left hand to support the pumpkin and carve from the top down as opposed to the bottom up,” Dr. Kakar says. “It’s very easy for the knife to slip and go into your hand.”
Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network/Jason Howland.
Our Health is brought to you by A1 Nutrition at Grant Park Shopping Centre.
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Getting ready for flu season
With the beginning of autumn Manitoba Health has released the latest influenza, COVID, and pneumococcal vaccines to meet the expected respiratory virus season.
“Getting vaccinated against influenza and COVID-19 will reduce your risk of getting sick. Not only will this protect you, but those around you, and keep you from missing out on family gettogethers and other events,” said Dr. Bunmi Fatoye, medical officer of health for the Winnipeg Health Region in an announcement on October 14.
Respiratory viruses including flu and COVID-19 spread personto-person through tiny droplets when people who are infected cough, sneeze, or talk. They can also be spread by touching a surface contaminated with droplets, and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
“Viruses can spread rapidly in
homes and crowded spaces. We recommend that people receive their vaccinations early in the season, before the peak of virus season. It takes two weeks after receiving the vaccine for the body to develop a strong immune response that can fight the viruses,” said Fatoye. Public health teams in the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA) operate outreach clinics across the community. These clinics work to reach populations who have difficulty getting to vaccine providers, such as families with young children, newcomers, and people staying in shelters. Dozens of these clinics take place every year in partnership with organizations that serve these communities.
“Vaccines protect more than the individual, they protect communities. Hosting vaccination
clinics at Acorn Family Place is important to support the health and wellness of children, and the community we share space with,” said Carey Richards, Executive Director of Acorn Family Place.
The best way to protect you and your loved ones from getting sick is to get vaccinated. While people who are vaccinated may still experience a respiratory virus with milder symptoms, the vaccine helps to decrease the severity and therefore the more extreme outcomes. For people at higher risk, these viruses can cause severe illness, leading to hospitalization or even death.
Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are recommended for everyone six months of age or older, but especially those at higher risk of infection or severe disease, along with their caregivers and close contacts.
Those at increased risk of severe disease include:
• people 65 years of age and older;
• residents of personal care homes or long-term care facilities;
• pregnant people;
• children from six months of age until they turn five years old;
• Indigenous people; and
• individuals with chronic health conditions. Influenza, COVID and pneumococcal shots
chronic and acute pain and reducing swelling.
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• Improves elimination of excess mucus
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• May enhance cardiovascular health
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• Relieves chronic and acute pain
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Our Health is brought to you by A1 Nutrition at Grant Park Shopping Centre in Winnipeg Editor’s note: Before starting any new supplement, it’s always best to check with your healthcare provider to make sure it’s right for you and won’t interfere with any medications you may be taking.
are available through your doctor’s office, local pharmacies, walk-in clinics, or Manitoba Health’s Walk-In Connected Care.
You can also visit Influenza | Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (wrha.mb.ca) to learn more and find upcoming vaccine clinics at your local Access Centres. Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are available free-of charge for all Manitobans. For additional information, contact Health Links – Info Santé at 204788-8200. Source: WRHA
Janice Palmer, Certified Health Instructor and Trainer; Jupinder Brar, Sales Associate; Felly Grieve, B. Comm.,
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PASTORIN...
From page A1
Cod, Shrimp & Lobster Paupiette, Kabocha Puree, Miso Glazed Daikon, Spinach, Tomato, Crispy Taro. And, as the returning 2024 Gold Medal Winning chef, Austin Granados was featured at Kitchen Party Winnipeg as the VIP chef and presented a Braised Beef Scallion Pancake as his dish. He was also a guest judge for the evening and was inducted into Canada’s Great Kitchen Party Hall of Fame
Chef Darnell Banman of Thermea Spa Village Winnipeg paired with Soren 2022 Boundary
PEOPLE & EVENTS
Spring Red Blend, Similkameen Valley, BC took home the silver medal for their impressive dish: Pressed CND Lamb Shoulder, Puffed Amaranth, Roasted Kale Oil, Port Lamb Jus, Celery Root + Parmesan, Crisp CND Lamb Eye Tartar.
“This was by far the strongest Winnipeg competition I’ve seen,” said National Head Judge Chris Johns. “Five out of seven dishes could have taken first place, it was exceptional.” Chef Butcher shared her excitement: “It’s an honour to represent Winnipeg at Nationals. I feel ready, confident, and supported by the best team.”
Over 300 guests attended the gala, enjoying world-class cuisine and live performances from Geoffrey Kelly, Barney Bentall, Matthew Harder, and Kevin Fox. The evening also raised funds for MusiCounts, Spirit North, and the local Child Nutrition Council,
supporting music, sport, and food security programs for Canadian youth.
Canada’s Great Kitchen Party held in ten cities nationwide, celebrates culinary excellence while spotlighting diverse talent and pairing chefs with Canada’s
best wines, breweries, and spirits. Cheer on Winnipeg’s finest, including Chef Butcher and Filipino-Canadian talents Pastorin and Granados, as they bring their flavours to Ottawa this January! For more information, contact Emma Singh at 204-996-7078.
Bronze medalist Norman Pastorin of Basta! Filipino Kitchen with his winning team
National Head Judge Chris Johns, Senior Judge Mike Green, Jesse Friesen, Christa Bruneau-Guenther, Christine Hanlon, AV Kitching, and Austin Granados evaluate a dish during the competition.
Chef Austin Granados who served as one of event’s judges receives the Hall of Fame 2025 award
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On September 19, 2025, the Manitoba government, through the office of the Hon. Malaya Marcelino, Minister of Labour and Immigration, honoured the Filipino Garment Workers of the ‘60s and ‘70s in the province’s first Garment Workers Day. The event was a huge success; it triggered conversations among Filipino seniors. I overheard compatriots talking about the Holland group of garment workers, the first wave of which arrived on March 13, 1969. This was followed by the batch of 72 workers in March 1972, and then the third batch, composed of 92 workers who arrived in 1975 on a staggered basis. These Filipino workers ended up in Holland because they were recruited by the Bergehouse Company of the Netherlands to work in its coat factory (The First Filipino Immigrants in Manitoba, G. Dalayoan et al., pp. 32-33). Even in the ’60s, the Netherlands was already an industrialized society. Eventually, most, if not all, would sponsor their loved ones to immigrate. It is not surprising that after more than fifty years, the number of Filipinos in Winnipeg has reached almost one hundred thousand.
Before the arrival of the Holland group, there were garment workers who came to Winnipeg as early as October 1, 1968. Cleto Buduhan, in the book of Gemma Dalayoan, explains that the “garment workers
consisted of five groups depending on their composition and dates of arrival. There were the 1968 arrivals called the trial or mother group, made up of 114 workers; the 1969 recruits, a total of 289 with landed immigrant status, who arrived in ten flight groups with seven males in this layer; the 19691971 sponsored garment workers who are kin of earlier immigrants: the 1972 recruits who came with job acceptance” (p. 30).
Neocolonialism and brain drain
All these waves of Filipino migrant workers only prove one thing: the social system in the old country cannot absorb the generations of workers that the Philippines produces. I, myself, have been a witness to this. Working in a manufacturing setting since 2006, I have noticed that most of the migrant labour comes from underdeveloped countries, and rarely from industrialized countries like Japan or South Korea. Filipino seniors often reflect and express their gratitude for the opportunity to migrate to an industrialized country like Canada, which paved the path to greener pastures. One can hear positive conversations about jobs and the social safety nets (i.e. healthcare) that the Canadian social system provides. This was the result of the social democratic struggles rooted in the revolutionary tradition of the Canadian working class, like the 1919 Winnipeg General Strike.
Holland Group (1969-1975) Migration perspectives
However, what is glossed over is the sociological reasons that pushed Filipino workers to migrate. Among them are the pre-industrial and agricultural conditions prevailing in the old country that limit job opportunities. Out of these semi-feudal and neocolonial bases arises a superstructure, gripped by bureaucratic greed and corruption, which was addressed by the September 21, 2025, Nationwide Anti-Corruption protest in the old country.
Migration and struggles continue
The plight of Filipino workers came to mind when I attended a forum on September 30, 2025, where Santiago Dasmariñas Jr. was the guest speaker. Santiago is the President of the Confederation for Unity, Recognition, and
Advancement of Government Employees (COURAGE).
COURAGE is a sister union of the CUPE. He shared that, to date, approximately 6,000 Filipinos leave the Philippines every day in search of better opportunities abroad. He further stated that when workers organize and resist, waves of persecution are launched by the puppet government. One will therefore not be surprised to meet nurses, doctors, midwives and other professionals who left the old country to settle in Winnipeg, taking jobs below their qualifications. What drove the Holland group to come to Winnipeg in the ‘70s is the same reason why migration is still pervasive. While we admire the tenacity of our people, this also raises a lot of questions about why
the best minds and highly skilled workers decided to leave to start a new life in other countries.
The history of Filipino migration in Manitoba should be highlighted. It is because of this that I deeply appreciate the pioneering research of Cleto Buduhan and Gemma Dalayoan in keeping the narrative and analysis of our community intact. Their work serves as a challenge to future generations to continue chronicling the struggles of our people.
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.
SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ
Daniel Padilla reacts to romance rumours with Incognitoco-star Kaila Estrada
Rumours of a budding romance between Incognito lead stars Daniel Padilla and Kaila Estrada have been making waves online for weeks. The speculation intensified after entertainment host Ogie Diaz claimed in his vlog that the two are already a couple. Adding fuel to the buzz was a viral video of Padilla, taken during his U.S. concert tour, dedicating a song to someone he fondly called “my love.”
During the season finale of TFC’s magazine show Are You G?, Padilla was asked directly if he now has a “jowa” (romantic partner). The actor laughed off the question, choosing not to confirm or deny. Instead, he urged fans to “just let things happen” and not make his personal life “too showbiz.”
When asked if he’s happy, Padilla responded with a smile, saying he has plenty of reasons to be.
“I just came from a fun concert tour, I’m here in Korea with my family and friends, celebrating life and receiving an award. How can I not be happy?” he said, referring to his recent Outstanding Asian Star win at the Seoul Drama Awards.
Now 30, Padilla said he’s looking forward to traveling more and taking time to appreciate life beyond work.
“Sometimes things move too fast, and I realize I take them for granted,” he reflected.
Estrada has remained quiet about the rumoured relationship. Her father, actor John Estrada, commented that “it’s not my story to tell,” while her mother, Janice de Belen, advised the media to “just ask Kaila.” The full interview with Daniel Padilla is available on Are You G? on TFC.
– With files compiled by Pilipino Express
and
Email address: legal@punzalanlaw.ca Office Hours: Mon-Fri: 8am to 4:30pm
Kaila Estrada
SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ
Kathryn Bernardo named Most Influential Celebrity at 11th EdukCircle Awards
Kapamilya superstar Kathryn Bernardo was honoured with the Most Influential Celebrity of the Year award at the 11th EdukCircle Awards held on October 11, 2025, at the GT Toyota Asian Center in UP Diliman. The EdukCircle Awards, established to recognize excellence in communication and media, acknowledged Bernardo’s significant impact on Filipino entertainment and culture.
Bernardo’s career achievements include starring in three of the highest-grossing Filipino films: The Hows of Us (2018), Hello, Love, Goodbye (2019), and Hello, Love, Again (2024). Her recent performance in A Very Good Girl earned her the Best Actress award at the 72nd FAMAS Awards in 2024. Additionally, she regained the Box Office Queen title at the
52nd GMMSF Box-Office Entertainment Awards. In 2025, she also returned to television as one of the judges for the seventh season of Pilipinas Got Talent
At the awards ceremony, Bernardo captivated attendees with her modern Filipiniana ensemble, a Daryl Maat barong featuring nostalgic sorbetes and pad paper prints, paired with a Stephverano maxi skirt. Her look was completed with golden monstera accessories, a glowing makeup look by Owen Sarmiento, and a chic ponytail styled by Raymart Espina
The Most Influential Celebrity award also recognized fellow luminaries Anne Curtis Marian Rivera, and Dingdong Dantes for their contributions to the entertainment industry. – With files compiled by Pilipino Express
Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino star in The Alibi
The Alibi is an upcoming psychological thriller series that reunites Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino, one of today’s most sought-after onscreen tandems, following their success in Linlang The series will premiere on Prime Video and is produced by Dreamscape Entertainment in collaboration with ABS-CBN Studios. Exploring the razor-thin line between truth and lies, The Alibi is set against a backdrop of power, privilege, and hidden sins. With twists at every turn, the series blurs the boundaries between love, betrayal, and survival. At its heart,
it asks a provocative question: how far would you go to protect the people you love, and what truths would you be willing to bury?
First-look stills showcase a moody, atmospheric visual style that evokes both noir tension and tropical dread. Paulo Avelino takes on what could be a career-defining role as a man trapped by legacy and guilt, while Kim Chiu delivers a haunting performance as a woman caught between redemption and revenge.
The series was filmed in Cebu, Kim’s hometown, which made the experience especially meaningful for her. “It feels good to be home, where so many memories live,” she shared.
– With files compiled by Pilipino Express
SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ
Manny Pacquiao takes on Asia in Netflix’s Physical:Asia
Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao is back – but not in the boxing ring. The Filipino icon now leads Team Philippines in Netflix’s new reality show Physical: Asia, premiering October 28, where elite athletes from across Asia face grueling physical challenges in a battle for national pride.
Pacquiao’s squad is stacked with some of the Philippines’ top athletes: sambo star Mark “Mugen” Striegl, strongman Ray Jefferson Querubin, rugby player Justin Coveney, hurdler Robyn Lauren Brown, and CrossFit champion Lara Liwanag Together, they will go head-to-head with seven other national teams, including champions from South Korea, Thailand, and Australia, in intense team competitions that push their strength, endurance, and teamwork to the limit.
Physical: Asia is a fresh twist on the hit series Physical: 100. While the original pitted individuals against each other, this season emphasizes team strategy, blending modern sports with traditional games such as Korean ssireum, Mongolian wrestling, Turkish oil wrestling, and muay thai. The result is a high-stakes mix of athleticism and cultural heritage that’s as thrilling as it is exhausting.
The official trailer shows Pacquiao and his teammates hurdling, lifting, and giving everything they’ve got, shouting through pain and fatigue, moments that capture both the intensity of the competition and the pride of representing the Philippines.
Fans of Pacquiao and adrenaline-packed challenges won’t want to miss it. Physical: Asia promises raw competition,
to see the legendary boxer
Sisterhood and suspense collide in What Lies Beneath
In the dark, twisting world of What Lies Beneath, tension runs high – but behind the camera, it’s all laughter, warmth, and sisterhood.
The new Kapamilya series brings together four of ABSCBN’s brightest young actresses – Sue Ramirez, Janella Salvador, Charlie Dizon, and Kaila Estrada
– in a gripping story of secrets, betrayal, and friendship tested by truth. Despite the show’s psychological intensity, what
stands out most is the genuine bond the cast built off-screen.
During a recent media conference, the actresses shared how their connection shaped the emotional core of the series. “Pag kaming apat na magkakasama, you can ask our directors, sumasakit ulo nila sa amin sa kakatawa,” Sue Ramirez said with a laugh. “It just shows how much we enjoy what we’re doing. I’m so happy to be working with all of these girls.”
PINAYS...
From page A1 innovation.
As a registered non-profit community organization, Pinays Manitoba is dedicated to empowering Filipino women across the province. The Trailblazers are more than role models; they are bold leaders who break barriers, inspire change, and pave the way for future generations.
Do you know a Pinay who uplifts her community, inspires others, and makes a difference? Nominate her today! First-time nominees and past nominees who have not yet won are welcome. Please note, self-nominations are not accepted, and nominees must agree to attend the Recognition Awards in May if selected.
Who can be nominated?
To be eligible for the Pinay Trailblazer Award, nominees must:
• Be a woman of Filipino descent, at least 18 years old, of integrity, and with strong ties to Manitoba
• Not be a current member of Pinays Manitoba Inc. Support the mission and vision of Pinays Manitoba
• Consent to their nomination
• Have made significant contributions to Manitoba’s community through paid work or volunteer service in the private, public, or nonprofit sectors How to nominate E-mail pinaysmbinc@gmail. com to request a nomination form. Completed nominations must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on December 15, 2025. Late or incomplete submissions will not be considered.
Let’s celebrate the fearless Filipino women shaping our future. Submit a nomination today! – by Emmie Joaquin
Janella Salvador echoed the sentiment, saying the collaboration energized every scene. “Ang sarap pala na nag-su-supportahan kami. Nagba-batuhan kami ng energy, and it just flows beautifully,” she said.
For Charlie Dizon, it was the group’s support that carried them through the toughest filming days.
“Kapag mahirap na yung mga eksena, kami rin yung nagkakapit. Yun yung sobrang proud ako,” she shared.
Newcomer Kaila Estrada added, “It’s such a supportive energy. I think viewers will really believe we’re barkadas or childhood friends because that’s what it felt like.”
Also starring Jake Cuenca, JM de Guzman, Race Matias, Jameson Blake, and Yves Flores What Lies Beneath is more than a psychological thriller, it’s a story about women who lift, protect, and challenge one another amid chaos.
– With files compiled by Pilipino Express
Team Philippines to glory on a continental stage.
With files compiled by Pilipino Express
The Filipino performing arts community in Winnipeg is setting the stage for another season of dance, music, and theatre. This 2025–2026 season, three organizations are leading the charge in enriching Manitoba’s cultural landscape. Magdaragat Philippines Inc., Musica Singers of Manitoba, and U ‘N I Together (UNIT Productions) are bringing movement, harmony, and prose to life in a way that reflects both the deep roots and bold spirit of Filipino artistry.
Together, these volunteerdriven organizations embody the spirit of bayanihan (community cooperation), bringing together Filipino-Canadians and local collaborators to celebrate heritage through performance. Their work not only preserves cultural traditions but also contributes to Winnipeg’s growing reputation as a hub for multicultural excellence and innovation in the arts.
Magdaragat Philippines Inc.
Fifty years of movement and magic
Few organizations embody Filipino pride and determination like Magdaragat Philippines, which celebrates a milestone this year: its 50th anniversary. For five decades, Magdaragat has kept the beauty of Philippine dance alive, connecting generations through movement, music, and storytelling.
To start this season, Magdaragat opens its doors to a new batch of dance students, who will learn Philippine folk dances, creative theatre movement, and even martial arts. Registration for ages 12 and up opens on October 19, 2025. Lessons are held at the Filipino Seniors Centre, 49 Euclid Ave., every Sunday from October to November, and resuming from January to July 2026. A special children’s program for ages 5 to 11 begins in January.
“The season culminates in May 2026 with 50 Years of Magic, a golden anniversary celebration that honours Magdaragat’s legacy as a cultural cornerstone in Winnipeg,” said Goldie Garcia, Artistic Director of Magdaragat Philippines Inc. “It’s not just a look back but also a celebration of the countless artists and volunteers who have carried our culture forward through dance, music, and community.”
Following the anniversary celebration, the group returns to the stage in August 2026 for Folklorama, where audiences can once again experience the heritage and spirit of the Philippines through Magdaragat’s signature performances.
Musica Singers of Manitoba Harmony in threes
Now entering its third season, the Musica Singers invites audiences on a journey through Tatsulok, a trilogy of concerts exploring inspiration, nostalgia, and cultural pride. “Tatsulok, which means ‘triangle’ in Filipino, captures the idea of balance and connection,” said Jesse Alcasabas,
Executive Director of Musica Singers. “Each concert stands on its own, but together they form a complete story about hope, memory, and the enduring power of music to bring people together.”
The season begins on December 6, 2025, with Tatsulok 1: Hope, Peace, Joy, curated by Lorenz Edward Sarrondo. This heartwarming holiday concert fills St. Andrew’s River Heights United Church with songs of reflection and celebration.
On March 21, 2026, the stage transforms for Tatsulok 2: Hollywood, Motown, Broadway Under the direction of Jim Lopez, and featuring MY Band with the Musica Singers, this lively concert revisits iconic hits from stage and screen, inviting audiences to sing, sway, and reminisce.
Finally, on June 6, 2026, the ensemble concludes its season at the University of Manitoba’s Desautels Concert Hall with Tatsulok 3: Canseco, Cruz, Cayabyab, a tribute to three Filipino music legends: George Canseco, Willy Cruz, and Ryan Cayabyab. This performance pays homage to the power and beauty of Original Pilipino Music (OPM).
U ‘N I Together
A fresh take on Filipino theatre UNIT Productions continues to redefine Filipino-Canadian theatre with bold, community-rooted storytelling that fuses tradition and contemporary edge. This season, the company invites audiences to experience Pamasko Tales, its new holiday series that reimagines Filipino folklore for today’s audiences. “With Pamasko Tales, we wanted to take the stories we grew up with and give them new life,” said Hazel Venzon, Executive Director and Artistic Producer of UNIT Productions. “It’s loud, playful, and joyfully unpolished. It’s exactly the kind of theatre that celebrates who we are as Filipinos living and creating in Canada.”
The first production in the series, The Glitter Bird, runs December 22, 23, 26, 29, and 30, 2025 (2:00 p.m. matinees). Written by Primrose Madayag Knazan and directed by Venzon, this musical comedy takes inspiration from the folk epic Ibong Adarna, but with a cheeky twist. It’s a fairy tale meets fiesta, packed with laughter, glitter, and heart.
The production features Matthew Pagtalunan as the title character, with music by Dave Dagta, choreography by Maribeth Tabanera, and design by David Oro. The youth ensemble from Magdaragat Philippines joins the cast, highlighting the spirit of collaboration that defines Winnipeg’s Filipino arts community.
In early 2026, UNIT will bring back its successful Pagbuo Series a storybuilding and screenwriting workshop also led by Venzon. Designed for Manitoba-based Filipino creatives aged 18 and up, the program provides mentorship
Filipino artists light up Winnipeg’s stages for the 2025–2026 performing arts season
and skill-building for aspiring writers, actors, and artists eager to bring their stories to the stage and screen. More details will be announced soon.
Season of creativity and cultural pride
As Winnipeg’s Filipino performing arts community continues to flourish, Magdaragat
Philippines, Musica Singers, and U ‘N I Together stand as testaments to creativity, collaboration, and cultural pride. The community is encouraged to support not only these groups but also the many other Filipino and local artists who bring colour and meaning to Manitoba’s cultural landscape. By attending performances, sharing stories, and volunteering time and resources, audiences help ensure that the arts continue to thrive and inspire generations to come. For more information on these arts organizations, workshop registrations, and show tickets, e-mail magdaragat@hotmail.com and visit www.musicasingersmb. ca and www.unitogether.ca.
A scene from UNIT Productions’ past staging of Everything Has Disappeared. Building on its tradition of bold storytelling, UNIT premieres The Glitter Bird this December as the first production under its new Pamasko Tales series. (Photo provided by UNIT Productions)
Magdaragat Philippines artists perform the Tinikling, reflecting the group’s long-standing dedication to preserving Filipino culture through dance. As Magdaragat approaches its 50th anniversary in 2026, its legacy of cultural pride and community spirit continues to inspire new generations. (Photo by Rollan Temporosa)
Magdaragat Philippines joins forces with the Musica Singers onstage in a celebration of Filipino culture and collaboration. The dance ensemble is also set to work with UNIT Productions in this December’s new show, The Glitter Bird. (Photo by Rollan Temporosa)
Through performances like Gabaq-an, Musica Singers fulfills its mission to celebrate Filipino musical heritage while inspiring unity, pride, and artistry within Manitoba’s diverse communities. (Photo by Rollan Temporosa)
Bridging cultures through song, Musica Singers brings the spirit of the Philippines to Winnipeg audiences, honouring tradition, nurturing local talent, and sharing the richness of Filipino music with the world. (Photo by Rollan Temporosa)
Participants of UNIT Productions’ first Pagbuo story building workshop explore their creativity through collaborative writing and performance. The program returns in early 2026 to continue supporting emerging Filipino-Canadian storytellers. (Photo provided by UNIT Productions)
MANILA, October 2025 –
What does it take to build a house that stays cool in sweltering tropical heat without guzzling electricity?
That was the question explored at the second public webinar hosted by Passivhaus Philippines (PassivhausPH), which spotlighted lessons from Thailand’s very first certified Passive House.
The event drew architects, engineers, educators, suppliers, homebuilders and homeowners eager to see how the Philippines might adapt one of the world’s most ambitious building standards to its own hot and humid climate.
The featured speaker was ShihChieh (Jay) Yeh, lead architect at BWK Green Architecture of Taiwan, who helped design and deliver Thailand’s prototype Passive House in Bangkok. The project, a modest two-storey family home built in 2019, proved that worldclass efficiency can be achieved even in the sticky heat of Southeast Asia.
“All of our design strategies are built around one simple idea: keeping heat out, and keeping the inside cool,” Yeh explained.
Unlike traditional designs, the Bangkok house uses thick layers of insulation not just on the roof, but also on the walls and even under the floor slab – important in a city where ground temperatures can reach 29 °C. High-performance double glazing keeps indoor glass surfaces from radiating heat, while careful shading and orientation help
block the tropical sun. A compact ventilation unit with built-in cooling keeps fresh, dehumidified air flowing.
The result? The house consumes so little energy that its entire cooling demand can be met with a modest 3.5-kilowatt system – less than what many Filipino households already use for a couple of air-conditioning units.
The Philippine buildings are not built for the climate we live in.
Families without air conditioning face impossible choices; do they spend on cooling, or put food on the table? The Passive House approach offers a way forward: first reduce heat loads through smart design; then right-size efficient cooling systems and finally add renewable energy.
Passivhaus Philippines advocates for ethical design and construction practices, ensuring sustainability efforts are pursued with integrity. Passivhaus Philippines envisions that by 2050, all Filipinos will live and work in healthy, low-energy, resilient buildings. Its mission is to make the Passive House Standard understood, achievable, and adopted across the country through education, advocacy, and technical support.
Support the mission by becoming a founding member or joining upcoming events.
Media & membership inquiries: Norman Garcia, Executive Director, Passivhaus Philippines info@passivhausph.org
Kwento’t Kulay: Stories and Colors
CelebratingFilipinoculture
The Philippine Historical Society of Canada, Inc. (PHSCI) is inviting the community to gather for a vibrant cultural celebration, Kwento’t Kulay: Stories and Colors, on Sunday, November 9, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.
The event highlights two unique experiences:
• Tiangge Market – Inspired by the lively Filipino marketplace, the tiangge will feature local vendors offering delicious food, handmade crafts, clothing, and artisanal goods. Visitors can shop, eat, and support small businesses while experiencing the warmth of Filipino culture.
• Migration Art Sessions –Throughout the day, guest speakers will share personal migration stories while guiding participants in
freestyle artmaking. Each session invites attendees to listen, create, and share their own stories through art, transforming the event into a living gallery of resilience, identity, and belonging. “Kwento’t Kulay is more than just a festival, it’s a celebration of community, culture, and creativity,” said Jomay Amora-Dueck, CoFounder and Co-Director of PHSCI. “Through stories and art, we honour the journeys that connect us all.”
The event is open to the public, and all are encouraged to attend. Vendors, artists, and community members are also invited to take part in this day of storytelling and cultural exchange. For more information, visit our website at www. philippinehistoricalsociety.com or email philippinehistoricalsociety@ gmail.com.
Philippines can learn from Thailand’s first certified Passive House
GCF Winnipeg celebrates 14 years of faith and fellowship
Greenhills Christian Fellowship Winnipeg (GCFW) marked 14 vibrant years on October 5, 2025. Pastor Reymus Cagampan and the pastoral council welcomed over 150 guests to a heartwarming anniversary service, brought to life by the inspiring music of GCFW’s praise and worship team. Special guests, including Pastor Arnold and members from GCFEast, joined in the celebration. After the service, the congregation shared laughs, stories, and fellowship over a delightful lunch. Visit GCFW at 777 Pritchard Ave., Winnipeg. Sunday service begins at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome.
DK School of Music recital and parent appreciation night
DK School of Music held their student recital and parent appreciation night at Jeepney Restaurant on October 5th.
Teacher Dexter Panlilio and Kim Capacete presented the talents of their bright young piano and drumming students to a full house of proud parents. The audience was also entertained by Kim on vocals and special guest singer Ferdinand Fave, backed by Dexter on keys and Paul Morrow on bass. Everyone was served a delicious meal by Lucky Agustin. Special thanks to Jason Paredes for the T-shirt printing and Joseph Luzong for the photography. Contact DK School of Music at rsmusicacademy@yahoo. com
Alexander
Angelica Elias Ethan Ferdinand Fave
Ysabell
Kim, Agassi, and Dexter
Kyle Luis Matthew Isabela Zeke
Alison
Amanda
EH KASI, PINOY!
KAPALARAN
ANITA GOMEZ
Anita Gomez
Rising from Zambales to the world stage
From humble beginnings in Zambales to nearly capturing an international crown, Anita Rose Gomez has become one of the most inspiring faces in Philippine pageantry today. The 24-year-old beauty proudly represented the Philippines at the Miss Asia Pacific International 2025 pageant held at the Cebu Coliseum on October 8, where she finished as first runnerup, a testament to her grace, intelligence, and determination.
Growing up in a small community in Zambales, Anita’s childhood was far from easy. She once lived in a modest home with a nipa roof and no electricity, conditions that strengthened her resolve to dream bigger. The daughter of Jinky Gomez Mendoza and older sister to Amari Sophia Anita learned early on the value of hard work and perseverance.
Currently studying Customs Administration at Gordon College in Olongapo City, Anita balances her education with her passion for pageantry. Before joining Miss Asia Pacific International, she had
OKTUBRE 16-31 2025
Malapit nang matapos ang Oktubre at ramdam na ang simoy ng taglamig sa hangin. Papalapit na ang Halloween at All Saints’ Day at ngayon na ang panahon na mag-ipon ng lakas, tapusin ang mga gawain, at ayusin ang mga plano bago sumapit ang mas abalang holiday season. Heto na ang iyong gabay sa huling kalahati ng buwan, kung saan may halong suwerte, hamon, at ilang sorpresa sa larangan ng trabaho, negosyo, at pakikipagrelasyon.
Aries (Marso 21 - Abril 19)
Mabilis ang takbo ng mga gawain, kaya’t huwag mong hayaang lamunin ka ng pressure. May oportunidad sa trabaho na magbibigay ng dagdag kita kung magiging maagap ka. Sa relasyon, posibleng may tampuhan pero mabilis din itong maaayos. Iwasan mong maging insecure. Good days: Okt. 19, 24 - Bad days: Okt. 17, 28.
Taurus (Abril 20 - Mayo 20)
Mabigat ang gastos pero may darating ding dagdag kita. Sa trabaho, maaaring may kasamahan na magbibigay ng suporta. Sa love life, unahin ang pakikinig bago ang pagbibigay ng opinyon. Hindi palaging ikaw lang ang tama. Kung mahal mo siya, alamin mo muna kung ano ang gusto niya. Good days: Okt. 20, 26 - Bad days: Okt. 18, 30.
Gemini (Mayo 21 - Hunyo 20)
Maganda ang panahon para sa brainstorming at mga bagong proyekto. Huwag ka lang maging sabay-sabay sa maraming bagay dahil baka magulo ka. Sa pamilya, may bonding moment na magpapalakas ng inyong samahan. Kung hindi nila gusto ang partner mo, huwag mong ipilit ngayon. Good days: Okt. 21, 29Bad days: Okt. 22, 31.
Cancer (Hunyo 21 - Hulyo 22)
May maliit na conflict sa trabaho o negosyo, pero kaya mong ayusin sa pamamagitan ng pagiging kalmado. Ang isang kaibigan ay lalapit para humingi ng payo. Sa usaping puso, may darating na sweet gesture mula sa mahal mo. Pilitin mong ipakita rin ang pagmamahal mo sa kaniya. Good days: Okt. 18, 25 - Bad days: Okt. 20, 27.
Leo (Hulyo 23 - Agosto 22)
Maganda ang flow ng pera kung marunong kang magbudget. May kasamang stress ang trabaho pero may reward naman sa dulo. Sa love life, maging totoo sa nararamdaman para hindi lumala ang maliit na tampuhan. Kung puwede naming pagpasensiyahan, huwag mo nang palakihin pa.
Good days: Okt. 19, 30 - Bad days: Okt. 16, 28.
Virgo (Agosto 23 - Setyembre 22)
Maraming dapat ayusin sa opisina pero makikita ng mga boss ang iyong sipag. May darating na bayarin kaya’t magtipid muna. Sa pamilya, ikaw ang magiging tagapamagitan sa maliit na hindi pagkakaintindihan. Basta tungkol sa pera, sensitibo ang lahat kaya alalay ka lang sa pagsasalita. Good days: Okt. 23, 27 - Bad days: Okt. 17, 25.
Libra (Setyembre 23 - Oktubre 22) Nakakaramdam ka ng pagod, kaya’t bigyan mo rin ng oras ang sarili. Bakita kailangang ikaw na lang ang palaging nag-aalaga sa kanila? May darating na good news tungkol sa pera. Sa love l ife, masarap ang simpleng bonding kaysa magastos na gimmick. Basta’t kayong dalawa lang. Good days: Okt. 18, 29 - Bad days: Okt. 19, 26. Scorpio (Oktubre 23 - Nobyembre 21)
Masipag ka ngayong linggo at mapapansin ito ng mga taong nasa paligid. May darating na maliit na extra income. Sa relasyon, iwasan mo ang selos para hindi masira ang mood. Kung palagay mo ay may gustong umagaw sa partner mo, ipakita mong mas OK ka kaysa doon. Good days: Okt. 22, 31 - Bad days: Okt. 21, 24.
Sagittarius (Nobyembre 22 - Disyembre 21)
Posibleng ma-delay ang isang plano, pero huwag mawalan ng loob. May taong tutulong sa iyo para maituloy ito. Sa pamilya, may okasyon o pagtitipon na magbibigay ng saya. Kung napapansin mong lumalayo ang partner mo, tanungin mo ang sarili kung ano ang nagawa mo sa kaniya. Good days: Okt. 20, 28 - Bad days: Okt. 17, 30.
Capricorn (Disyembre 22 - Enero 19)
Magiging produktibo ang mga susunod na araw kung maayos ang iyong schedule. Sa pera, may parating na dagdag pero huwag agad gastusin. Sa love life, ang simpleng pag-aalaga ay higit pa sa magagarbong regalo. Mas OK kung may quiet time na kayong dalawa lang ang magkasama. Good days: Okt. 23, 29 - Bad days: Okt. 18, 27.
Aquarius (Enero 20 - Pebrero 18)
May bagong ideya na makakatulong sa trabaho o negosyo. Maaaring may kasama kang hindi agad sang-ayon pero maayos din ito. Sa relasyon, masayang usapan ang magpapatibay ng inyong samahan. Iwasan mong maging praning, may mga pinagdadaanan din ang mahal mo sa buhay. Good days: Okt. 24, 30 - Bad days: Okt. 19, 28.
Pisces (Pebrero 19 - Marso 20)
Kailangan mong maging masinop sa pera dahil baka may unexpec-t ed na gastos. Sa trabaho, may taong magbibigay ng inspirasyon o encouragement. Sa relasyon, maging open sa pag-uusap para mas lalo kayong magkalapit. Magtapatan kung ano ang ayaw at gusto sa isa’t isa. Good days: Okt. 21, 27 - Bad days: Okt. 22, 31.
already gained experience from several competitions, including Miss Philippines Earth 2021 and Miss Universe Philippines 2024, where she placed among the Top 10 finalists.
But beyond beauty and titles, Anita’s heart lies in service. Her advocacy project, Para Kay Juan at Juana, focuses on improving access to education in marginalized Aeta communities across Zambales. Through outreach programs, she helps identify and meet the needs of students who often lack basic school resources.
Anita believes her journey is more than personal triumph, it’s a reflection of every Filipino who rises above hardship. “I want to show that where you come from does not define what you can achieve,” she said.
With her radiant spirit and purpose-driven mission, Anita Gomez stands as a beacon of hope, proof that true beauty shines brightest when it uplifts others. – with files compiled by Pilipino Express
Credit: Anita’s IG
Credit: Anita’s IG