Rebecca Bustamante-Mills Talks About
ISSUE SUMMER 2016
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What Matters Most One Sure-Fire Way for Success What Winning Is All About Hot Issues Explained
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Table of Contents
what’s inside... Ronnie Dela Gana Publisher
Claire Dela Gana Managing Editor
Joi Lardizabal Editor
Gama Seva
Web and Mobile Operation
Erwin Segui
Creative and Graphics
20 Cover Story
8Journey of Success
Rebecca Bustamante-Mills: What Matters Most
One Sure-Fire Way to be Successful
24 Biz Buzz
26 Sports Update
Filipino grocer, the Philippines’ No. 1 burger chain comes to Canada
Winning is Not All About the Championship Troph
Bloomy Favila Sales and Marketing Contributors
YSH CABANA MAHAL HUDSON COACH MIKE DEO MORENO MANN NACARIO MICHELLE CHARMAINE RAMOS JANE TAGUICANA Photographer
EDWIN RAMBOYONG BOYET MARTEJA Kubo Magazine is published quarterly by iKubo Media The publisher accepts no responsibility for advertisers’ claims, unsolicited articles, transparencies and other materials. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part in any form without written permission of the Publisher. Copyright @ 2016 iKubo Media Proudly printed in Canada. iKubo Media 1735 Arborwood Drive Oshawa, ON L1K 0H6 Tel: (647) 300-1970 www.kubomagazine.ca ARTICLE PROPOSALS and unsolicited articles can be emailed to editor@ikubomedia.com or mailed to EDITOR, Kubo Magazine, 1735 Arborwood Drive, Oshawa, ON L1K 0R6 TERMS OF SUBMISSION: By submitting anything to Kubo Magazine in any format, written or otherwise, you agree that (1) Your submission and their contents will automatically become the property of Kubo Magazine without any compensation to you. (2) Kubo Magazine may use or redistribute the submissions and their contents for any purpose and in any way; and (3) there is no obligation to keep any submissions confidential.
Pinoy Ako 10 14 16
In Praise of Youth Inauguration Speech of President Rodrigo R. Duterte Inauguration Speech of Vice President Leni G. Robredo
26 28 30
Hard Work Pays Off for a Schulich Leader Grind Now, Shine Later Fil-Can Lady Prexy for Rotary Club of Toronto
Celebrate Success
Local 32 36
MAGAZINE
Hot Issues Explained What’s On
PUBLISHER’S NOTE What does success mean to you? Success is a very subjective term, and it doesn’t mean exactly the same thing to two different people. You may have the same goals but the path you take to becoming successful will vary. This country we live in is so rich in diverse stories of success. As a newly landed immigrant, I remember how I was inspired reading the success stories of Canadian immigrants from a mainstream magazine. Sadly there were only a few to none Filipino Canadians featured in the magazine. I was certain that we have a lot of good stories to share. Filipinos are hard-working. We strive to excel in everything we do. We thrive in challenging situations. I’m sure the Filipino community is teeming with uplifting stories.
“Train yourself to celebrate the success of others.” -Bo Sanchez
I’ve read (and heard) Dr. Philip Kelly’s report on Filipino youth in Canada several times. According to the results of the Filipino Youth Transitions in Canada Research Project, the youth are not doing as well as their parents’ generation when it comes to education and employment levels. They don’t have the same success rates in getting university degrees as their parents. As a parent, I find the results disheartening but I welcome the challenge. It gives me more reason to pursue my passion. Most of all, it re-affirms iKubo Media’s mission and vision, and through Kubo Magazine, we commit to bring you stories that will inspire, not just the youth, but all Filipino Canadians. Kubo Magazine continues to meet and discover Filipino Canadians with good news to share. To some, success didn’t come easy, while for some luck was always at their side. The distance between your dreams and reality is measured by your actions. That is what counts, that is what matters. That makes your success story, and it should be celebrated and shared. In this issue, please join me in celebrating the success of our fellow kababayans. Tuloy po kayo sa aming Kubo!
ronnie.delagana@ikubomedia.com
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Be positive. Be inspired. Be motivated.
No matter where you are from, your dreams are valid. - Lupita Nyong’o Photo by iKubo Media
Journey of Success
One Sure-fire Way to be
Successful “
Start living the life you always wanted to be.
“
W
hen I was asked to be a contributor to Kubo magazine, I was ecstatic! Wow! Me?! I remember the time that I was so inspired by the Chicken Soup for the Soul book, I wrote a story for them and sent it. Well, of course it didn’t get published. Why would they do that from a 12 year old? When I received the rejection letter, I pouted and I said to myself, one day I will write a book. One day I will be writing an article so I can inspire the world with my message. (Common, don’t ask me what that message was, I was 12!). That was the one day when I was 12 years old living in hot weather in a third world country. I didn’t even know how to grammatically finish a sentence then. Because of my low selfesteem and poor self-image (well, you know that we all go through that stage), I realized that what I really want it is to speak and write in “perfect” English. Why? So people will not judge me. So, I will not feel stupid or unimportant.
By Mahal Hudson
One crazy thing I did when I was in college, I applied for postgraduate studies …in Australia! Why? So, I can learn how to speak English well. This is a true story. Looking back now, I realized that I was so diligent, thorough and persistent. Remember, I was applying for an advanced education in another country to which I have never been before. The application requires pages and pages of questions and proposal for a thesis. If I recall, I sent it to 5 universities without knowing where they are geographically located. All I knew then, I just wanted to go and learn English well.
I was beyond happy when I received an acceptance letter from two universities. I was doing my happy dance that time! Along with the package were information about board and lodging. Immediately, I gasped “I have to pay for boarding and lodging?!” See how silly I was? I didn’t fully factor in the financial obligations that come along with my goal to learn English well. Duh! My hardworking parents did not know about my plans that I was applying to go to Australia and that I need their financial support. When I told them that I was accepted, they didn’t say “no” to me.
Journey of Success
I was actually surprised when they started asking about how we could afford it and who do we know in Australia. Suddenly, I realized that with their mere interest to my endeavour, I felt that my goal was not as important as it used to be. Also, I realized that nothing is really impossible. I myself was not convinced that I would be accepted in any university but I tried anyways and followed every steps they asked me to do. I also know that if I show the university how eager and conscientious I am with my application, I know I will have a chance. I made it! I achieved my goal to get accepted. For me, that was already an achievement. With determination and action, I created my possibilities. Fast forward 12 years after, I immigrated to Canada. Fast forward another 12 years, I wrote an article in the widely known Canadian Immigrant magazine in Toronto that was published in March 2014 entitled “Landed… now what?” When I wrote a blog about my fierce courage in starting a leadership development and coaching business, a US-based publishing company in California took notice of my authentic message. They invited me to be a co-author in their Transform Your Life! Book2. My chapter was “The Fierce Me: An Immigrant’s Journey of Self-empowerment.” Currently, I am finishing my second book: “Superheroes Unmasked: 10 Powerful Ways to Lead without Fear.” Also, I hosted a radio talk show with pinoyradio.com: “Get Real with Mahal” every Sundays. I was invited to speak at SIPO (Spreading Ideas and Providing Opportunities), a non-profit organization
helping millennial’s to close the gap in unemployment by providing them education for successful employment (sipofoundation.org). I also have an upcoming project with MCBN TV Network to host a TV talk show in the fall of 2016. And now, you are reading my article at Kubo Magazine. Now, you are probably reading this and may be wondering what the ONE sure-fire way to be successful is. Actually, I should be the one asking you “have not read the article in entirety?!
• Ask for help. Don’t ask for money or ask someone to give you a job without knowing what you really want to be. Ask for help with how to get the “job.” Ask for help with practicing your interviewing skills. Ask for help to connect you with people who can help you build your leadership skills. • Get a coach or a mentor. Really! If you are a Filipino reading this, this may be so foreign to you. Sorry to say that. But that is the fact of the matter right now. Our western counterparts have full understanding in using this tool that’s why they seem more advanced in this area compared to most Filipinos. But I truly, truly BELIEVE that Filipinos can stand out in the crowd and can be massively successful. Every successful person has a coach or mentor. I don’t have to reiterate that. I am an evidence of that. Remember the stuff that you read above?!
Here’s the truth:
Look, my message to you is simple.
• TAKE ACTION according to your life purpose and core values. Literally, get off that couch or stop playing with your IPhone. Go out and network! • Reach out to other groups. Really, why would you stay in a group that laments the same thing over and over again?” I can’t find a job, it’s hard to find a job, and my boss is a monster…and blah...blah...blah.” Tell me, what good learning will you find in these situations - nothing! As I believe, always surrounding yourself with positive and successful people you can be that type of person also. And believe me, this is a fact!
Start living the life you always wanted to be. Reclaim the power identity that you always have. Anything is possible when we speak and act according to our life purpose and core values. If you don’t know, for God’s sake, then go out there and find yourself a coach or a mentor! TAKE ACTION NOW! Disclaimer: I write with many questions and exclamation marks. And so be it!
Summer 2016 Kubo Magazine 9
Journey of Success
In Praise of Youth Four points on Young People’s Role for Social Change
By Ysh Cabana
There’s a good story that illustrates the energy young people exude. How do we intend to replace the bad rotting system of self-interest and to realize the change we want for the Philippines with youthful vigor? Let’s take a cursory look.
I. The youth has its potency but since it is a sizeable, heterogeneous group, it also has limiting factor: they have flexible class interests. The present lack of unity among us is an apparent weakness. There is so much diversity in perspective and practice. Youth come from various background, and more than half of the population of the Filipino community in Canada come from this sector. Their social circumstances vary since they can be found working in broad occupational patterns. Being a member of a certain class is not a passive state, youth’s consciousness is something that can stagnate or grow depending upon which environment it is nurtured. Will we ever have a united front? In assessing the past efforts to bring together people from a wide spectrum, a section of the young people are profuse with dialogue with anyone that cared to engage without any clear objective. In the past decade, the work in organizing cross-Canada to talk about topics garnered from the broader Filipino community has often been undertaken by a group of activists: Kahapon, Ngayon at Bukas (2001), Pagsulong (2006), State of the Filipino Union (2009) and often with the support from other groups such as academics: more recently Young Filipino Canadian Leaders Summit (2014) and Filipino Canadian Action Research Summit (2015). Has change already taken place? These collective encounters still deserve recognition to be markers of the re/orientation of the Filipino youth (and student) movement in Canada. Repeated failures may have not turned out to the radical system change we aspired to achieve, but we continue to move forward to victory, and not another failure.
That is precisely directed against the neoliberal containment state, a government whose foreign policy is corporate extraction of resources and trade is trumping everything including oppression of people (i.e. imperialism). There is a need to get to the ground with forms of organizing that actually acknowledge the dynamic of everyday life with our conditions of living, that is economic, of which these interests are constituted. II. The youth is at a critical point of identity and ideological formation. The youth have been at the forefront of each new era. This is one of the lessons of our people’s history. If we are to explore how Filipino youth forged and live identity, we have to examine our roots, not in a mythical pre-colonial indigenous past, but in the intergenerational struggles for liberation. This includes construction, performance, acceptance and rejection of being and becoming Filipino ourselves and by others. The youth are the bearers of traditions, customs and cultural heritage. Furthermore, they are the bellwethers of the next generation. Standing as the wellspring of the mass movement, the values of determination, enthusiasm and idealism that young people imbibe also penetrate deeply to the challenges and controversy the nation face. As literary giant Nick Joaquin wrote in his essay Culture and History: “The identity of the Filipino today is of a person asking what is his identity.” Discovering the timeline of our epic struggles, a young person would understand that we had matured politically. We are no longer foundling as we had learned from a civilizing Spanish-Catholic era our rights and responsibilities.
Journey of Success
When US granted independence to its colony fifty years after in 1946, a good number of Filipinos felt it was quite meaningless. In the following decades, a rapid growth of radical nationalism and student movement took off as a break in historical consciousness. In the post-dictatorship era, Filipino youth in the diaspora are a product of the community’s migrant experience. It is thus we interpret the 1896 Philippine revolution as unfinished. Over a century hence, the struggle for independence and liberation from colonialism and imperialism continues through the expression of international solidarity between people in the tropical archipelago and the people all over the world. III. The youth is only political if they, through conscious critical assessment with other people about their relations to the world, act upon their concrete conditions. Knowing history, and eventual knowing oneself is one thing. Changing it is another. And because individual actions always affect others, practical activity is inherently political. Youth hold within themselves the potential to be authentic actors for social change beyond the mere performative. Instead of considering young people as passive recipients of social charity, they should be encouraged to develop praxis--a creative actualization of oneself that pushes for reflective and reflexive action in order to make progress. We strive to reach that turning point when we could have a society based on economic freedom and development rights. But any ideology is only as good as the masses of people who concretely meet existing needs based on objective realities. Our nationalism stimulates feelings of rage and protest. On the other hand, youth are all too often extinguished by a sense of shame because of the invisibility of role models or inherent racism. So it goes: what kind of narrative are we now writing? If we are to sum up what we need to study from our heritage is that heroic effort is a collective leadership. We are not short of examples of youth who took the side of the have-nots in this paradigm. Examples abound but there are just a few: the legacy of the Katipunan, the Kabataang Makabayan, the roiling flood of youth who have fled to the mountains have fiercely confronted the rough-and-tumble prejudices and discrimination against the oppressed workers, landless peasants, and indigenous peoples.
2014 Young Filipino Canadian Leaders Summit
Pagsulong 2006 panelists
Just as they struggled hard and lived in the spirit of simple living, so are we also called to step outside our comfort zones to seize the world in unprecedented numbers in support of pro-people social reforms.
and fell down as martyrs in the countryside. Meanwhile, others in Canada continued to fight for people’s rights and emerged as community leaders in local issues in political economy. Even in contemporary times, reportedly there is an upsurge of youth exposed and awaken by their social realities, then becoming born-again in the heartland of people’s war. The necessity to arouse, organize and mobilize groups of volunteers for trips from North to South is even more pressing with the seething global and Philippine crises. So deep are our history of principled resistance that we can only touch on some points. But the sense of urgency is helping us to put down roots, blossom and produce fruits that are bound together. In the last analysis, to allude a revolutionary, without a renewal of progressive-minded and militant youth linking arms together, a nation cannot have a deep effect on the politics, ideology, economics, and culture for a better next day.
IV. The youth is only revolutionary if they engage in militant struggle. How do we march forward to a brighter future? The collective unlearning of old ways and learning of new ones is never a smooth process. We are never to ‘vegetate’ nor to give up on the kind of change we want to see because of the time it takes to be accomplished. Forty-six years ago a series of student demonstrations against then President Ferdinand Marcos led to the declaration of Martial Law. Dubbed as the First Quarter Storm (FQS) of 1970, it revved up the nationalist struggle at an epoch of worsening crisis in the country. It caught the attention of people even at the international scale. From the FQS, many were baptized in the protest movement and would later be leaders in the campaign for democracy and Sulong kabataan! independence in the Philippines. It was a *** watershed moment as huge forces joined the underground movement because of state terror, journeyed along mountain passes
Summer 2016 Kubo Magazine 11
Bayan Ko
Inauguration Speech of
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte President Fidel Ramos, sir, salamat po sa tulong mo (thank you for your help) making me President; President Joseph Ejercito Estrada; Senate President Franklin Drilon and the members of the Senate; Speaker Feliciano Belmonte and the members of the House of Representatives; Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno and Associate Justices of the Supreme Court; His Excellency Guiseppe Pinto and the members of the Diplomatic Corps; incoming members of the Cabinet; fellow workers in government; my fellow countrymen. No leader, however strong, can succeed at anything of national importance or significance unless he has the support and cooperation of the people he is tasked to lead and sworn to serve. It is the people from whom democratic governments draw strength and this administration is no exception. That is why we have to listen to the murmurings of the people, feel their pulse, supply their needs and fortify their faith and trust in us whom they elected to public office. There are many amongst us who advance the assessment that the problems that bedevil our country today which need to be addressed with urgency, are corruption, both in the high and low echelons of government, criminality in the streets, and the rampant sale of illegal drugs in all strata of Philippine society and the breakdown of law and order. True, but not absolutely so. For I see these ills as mere symptoms of a virulent social disease that creeps and cuts into the moral fiber of Philippine society. I sense a problem deeper and more serious than any of those mentioned or all of them put together. But of course, it is not to say that we will ignore them because they have to be stopped by all means that the law allows. 14 Kubo Magazine Summer 2016
Erosion of faith and trust in government – that is the real problem that confronts us. Resulting therefrom, I see the erosion of the people’s trust in our country’s leaders; the erosion of faith in our judicial system; the erosion of confidence in the capacity of our public servants to make the people’s lives better, safer and healthier. Indeed, ours is a problem that dampens the human spirit. But all is not lost. I know that there are those who do not approve of my methods of fighting criminality, the sale and use of illegal drugs and corruption. They say that my methods are unorthodox and verge on the illegal. In response let me say this: I have seen how corruption bled the government of funds, which were allocated for the use in uplifting the poor from the mire that they are in. I have seen how illegal drugs destroyed individuals and ruined family relationships.
I have seen how criminality, by means all foul, snatched from the innocent and the unsuspecting, the years and years of accumulated savings. Years of toil and then, suddenly, they are back to where they started. Look at this from that perspective and tell me that I am wrong. In this fight, I ask Congress and the Commission on Human Rights and all others who are similarly situated to allow us a level of governance that is consistent to our mandate. The fight will be relentless and it will be sustained. As a lawyer and a former prosecutor, I know the limits of the power and authority of the president. I know what is legal and what is not. My adherence to due process and the rule of law is uncompromising. You mind your work and I will mind mine. “Malasakit;” “Tunay na Pagbabago; Tinud-anay (real) nga Kausaban (change)” – these are words which catapulted me to the presidency. These slogans were conceptualized not for the sole purpose of securing the votes of the electorate. “Tinudanay nga kabag-uhan (real change). Mao kana ang tumong sa atong pang-gobyerno (this is the direction of our government).” Far from that. These were battle cries articulated by me in behalf of the people hungry for genuine and meaningful change. But the change, if it is to be permanent and significant, must start with us and in us. To borrow the language of F. Sionil Jose, we have become our own worst enemies. And we must have the courage and the will to change ourselves. Love of country, subordination of personal interests to the common good, concern and care for the helpless and the impoverished – these are among the lost and faded values that we seek to recover and revitalize
Bayan Ko
as we commence our journey towards a better Philippines. The ride will be rough. But come and join me just the same. Together, shoulder to shoulder, let us take the first wobbly steps in this quest. There are two quotations from revered figures that shall serve as the foundation upon which this administration shall be built.
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The test of government is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much; it is whether we provide for those who have little.
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-Franklin Delano Roosevelt
and compliance with one department or agency, shall be accepted as sufficient for And from (Abraham) Lincoln I draw all. I order all department secretaries and heads of agencies to refrain from changing this expression: and bending the rules government contracts, transactions and projects already approved You cannot strengthen and awaiting implementation. Changing the the weak by weakening the strong; rules when the game is on-going is wrong. You cannot help the poor by
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discouraging the rich; You cannot help the wage earner by pulling down the wage payer; You cannot further the brotherhood by inciting class hatred among men.
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My economic and financial, political policies are contained in those quotations, though couched in general terms. Read between the lines. I need not go into specifics now. They shall be supplied to you in due time. However, there are certain policies and specifics of which cannot wait for tomorrow to be announced. Therefore, I direct all department secretaries and the heads of agencies to reduce requirements and the processing time of all applications, from the submission to the release. I order all department secretaries and heads of agencies to remove redundant requirements
I abhor secrecy and instead advocate transparency in all government contracts, projects and business transactions from submission of proposals to negotiation to perfection and finally, to consummation. Do them and we will work together. Do not do them, we will part sooner than later. On the international front and community of nations, let me reiterate that the Republic of the Philippines will honor treaties and international obligations. On the domestic front, my administration is committed to implement all signed peace agreements in step with constitutional and legal reforms.
I am elated by the expression of unity among our Moro brothers and leaders, and the response of everyone else to my call for peace. I look forward to the participation of all other stakeholders, particularly our indigenous peoples, to ensure inclusivity in the peace process. Let me remind in the end of this talk, that I was elected to the presidency to serve the entire country. I was not elected to serve the interests of any one person or any group or any one class. I serve every one and not only one. That is why I have adapted as an article of faith, the following lines written by someone whose name I could no longer recall. He said: “I have no friends to serve, I have no enemies to harm.” Prescinding there from, I now ask everyone, and I mean everyone, to join me as we embark on this crusade for a better and brighter tomorrow. But before I end, let me express the nations, on behalf of the people, our condolences to the Republic of Turkey of what has happened in the place. We offer our deepest condolences. Why am I here? Hindi kasali ito diyan. The past tense was, I am here because I love my country and I love the people of the Philippines. I am here, why? Because I am ready to start my work for the nation. Thank you and good afternoon. Summer 2016 Kubo Magazine 15
Bayan Ko
Inauguration Speech of
Vice President Leni Gerona Robredo Minamahal kong mga kabayayan:
16 Kubo Magazine Summer 2016
Kaya ang ating panata ay malagpasan ang kahit ano pang hamon. Hindi natin hahayaang mapigilan tayo ng ano mang balakid upang makapagsilbi at handa tayong makipagtulungan sa lahat. Ang tanging paraan para matupad ang hangaring ito para sa ating bansa ay ang sama-samang pagkilos. Naniniwala ako na sa panahong tila may mga matitinding hidwaan na nangyayari sa mundong kinagagalawan natin, ang hamon sa atin ay magsama-sama, paigtingin ang ating pagkakaisa, at gawing lakas, hindi hadlang, ang ating pagkakaiba. Kailangan nating gawin ang tama para sa karamihan, hindi lang sa iilan. Ang katapatan ay dapat ibigay sa ating pinangakuang pagsisilbihan kahit labag ito sa pansariling interes. Namulat tayo sa ganitong uri ng pagsisilbi at itutuloy natin habang tayo’y nabubuhay. Bukas ang pintuan ng Tanggapan ng Pangalawang Pangulo sa lahat – anuman ang katayuan sa buhay, paniniwala, o partido. Tayo ay magiging tanggapan na palaging nakikinig sa boses ng taumbayan.
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What brings us together as a nation is far more powerful than what pulls us apart.
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May mga sandali sa ating buhay na mas matingkad kaysa sa iba. Noong nagkakilala kami ni Jesse. Noong nasilayan ko sa unang pagkakataon ang mukha ng aming mga anak. Noong bumagsak ang kanyang eroplano. Ngayon, narito na naman tayo sa isang mahalagang yugto. Nagpapasalamat akong kasama ko kayo sa oras na ito. Kayong nagbigay ng inyong tiwala at umako ng ating laban bilang laban niyo rin. Samahan ninyo ulit ako sa aking bagong paglalakbay. Ang sandaling ito ay hindi lamang tungkol sa akin. Ito ang ating pagkakataong masama ang mga nasa laylayan ng lipunan tungo sa maginhawang buhay sa mas malawak na paraan. Sa isang katulad nating nakikipagpulong sa riles ng tren, natutulog sa bangka at sumasakay sa habal-habal para maabot ang ating mga pinaglilingkuran, ito ay isang malaking biyaya para lalo pang makapaglingkod. Tayo ay nasa posisyong ito dahil hindi natin matalikuran ang tawag ng paninilbihan, at hindi natin sasayangin ang pagkakataong paigtingin ang ating mga ipinaglalaban. Niyayakap natin ang responsibilidad na ito, na may buong pagpapakumbaba, pasasalamat, at pagsusumikap. Ang mga pangarap ng ating Pangulo at ating mga plano para sa bansa ay nagkakatugma patungo sa iisang hangarin: ang mabigyan ng tunay na kaunlaran ang ating mga kababayan, lalo na ang mga napag-iiwanan. Marami nang naumpisahan pero marami pa ring kailangang punan.
Hangad nating maging magkatuwang ang pamahalaan at pribadong sektor tungo sa pagbabago, para sa mga nasa laylayan ng lipunan na dapat nating paglingkuran. Ang ating pagtutulungan ang ating pinakamabisang puhunan. Napatunayan na nating hindi sagabal ang anumang kakulangan sa totoo, tapat at pursigidong paglilingkod. Ang pagsubok ay kabilang mukha lamang ng pagkakataon. Itong ito ang kwento ng ating paglalakbay. Noong nagsimula tayo, parang walang naniniwalang may pag-asang manalo. Ngunit dahil sa pagbubuklod ng ambag ng bawat isa – tulad ni Nanay Alberta na nagsangla ng singsing para makatulong sa ating kampanya, tulad ng paglalakbay muli ng Sumilao Farmers, tulad ng mag-amang pinagtagpi-tagpi muli ang napunit nating posters, tulad ng marami sa inyong kasama ko ngayon na nagsakripisyo – nanaig tayo.
Bayan Ko
Kapag naninindigan tayo para sa mga pinaniniwalaan natin, kapag handa nating pagsakripisyuhan ang ating mga layunin, ang imposible ay kinakayang gawing posible. Kaya buo ang loob ko na marami tayong magagawa sa anim na taon. Inaaya ko kayong lahat na nais tumulong na magtungo sa ating tanggapan para sabay tayong mangarap at kumilos para mabigyan natin ng mas magandang buhay ang ating mga kababayan. Pagsama-samahin natin ang ating mga hangarin at kakayahan upang makalikha tayo ng makabuluhang pagunlad. Ang pangunahin nating tututukan ay gutom at sapat na pagkain, kalusugan para sa lahat, kaunlaran ng kanayunan, edukasyon at people empowerment. Sa mga larangang ito, walang dapat sayanging oras. Ang pangarap natin ay maibsan ang paghihirap sa lalong madaling panahon. Niyayaya ko kayong muli akong samahan sa paglalakbay na ito. Sa unang isandaang araw, plano nating magtungo sa malalayo at maliliit na barangay sa bansa, upang alamin ang mga bagay na nais niyong matugunan. Ito ang sinimulan na nating gawin sa ating distrito sa lalawigan ng Camarines Sur – kung saan ako isinilang, nag-aral, nagtayo ng pamilya, namulat sa mga problema ng lipunan at kung saan napudpod ang ating mga tsinelas sa paghahanap ng mga mabisang solusyon sa kahirapan. Umaasa tayo na sa pagdala natin sa Tanggapan ng Pangalawang Pangulo sa inyong mga barangay, mas mararamdaman ninyo na totoong nariyan ang pamahalaan para sa inyo. At kapag nadama ninyo iyan, magkakaroon din tayo ng inspirasyon na simulan ang pagbabagong loob. Nakita natin ito sa mga magsasaka at mangingisda na ating natulungan, sa bawat inabusong asawa na ating binigyang lakas, o sa bawat katutubo o manggagawang nakasalimuha. Anumang pagbabago sa ating bayan ay nagsisimula sa pagpupursigi ng bawat Pilipino. At kapag nagkaisa tayo, walang imposible.
Sabi nga ni Jesse nuong siya ay nabubuhay pa: “What brings us together as a nation is far more powerful than what pulls us apart.” Sa panahon ng matinding hidwaan, ang pagkakaisa ng bansa ang tanging pag-asa. Iba iba man ang ating pinanggagalingan, iisa ang ating hangarin: na ang bawat pamilyang Pilipino ay mamuhay ng may dangal. Ang sandaling ito ang simula ng sama-samang pagtupad sa hangaring ito. Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat at mabuhay ang Pilipinas.
Summer 2016 Kubo Magazine 17
Giving Something Back to the People I-Remit’s future direction emanates from its vision: “To be the ultimate choice remittance service provider globally.” I-Remit pursues this vision and relentlessly relies on the innovative drive of the organization to be able to provide more meaningful and more accessible services to its customers. At I-Remit every single day is an opportunity to give back to the people. I-Remit takes pride in being an ardent advocate of social responsibility and good corporate citizenship. It pursues corporate activities with a social conscience and commits itself to initiatives that “give something back” to society particularly, the OFWs and their families. iCare embodies I-Remit’s social programs for the community that focus on two (2) of the greatest concerns of OFWs: education and livelihood. I-Remit, together with the Sterling Bank of Asia (A Savings Bank), Kabalikat ng Migranteng Pilipino, Kabalikat ng OFWs, and other private sector partners, has embarked on a global campaign to promote financial literacy among OFWs. The program, aptly called “BE F.I.T.,” which stands for “Be Financially Intelligent and Trained” aims to encourage overseas workers to properly manage their hardearned money through savings and investments, or other entrepreneurial endeavors to prepare for their return back home. The seminars were well attended and met with enthusiasm with the active participation of Filipinos in Australia, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Singapore, Taiwan, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This will reach out to more and more countries where we have OFWs.
18 Kubo Magazine Summer 2016
Cover Story
Rebecca Bustamante-Mills talks about the things that really matter in her life By Claire Dela Gana Photos by Edwin Ramboyong
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Cover Story
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There is no point complaining. Just do it.
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uch has been written about one of the most accomplished female entrepreneur in the Philippines today, Rebecca Bustamante-Mills. Her rags-to-riches story is all over the web. She worked as a domestic helper in Singapore and at the same time studied and finished an Accounting program. To earn more for her family, she moved to Canada and worked as a nanny. Again, studied while working pursuing her graduate studies in Accounting and Marketing at Ryerson University. She met and got married to Richard Mills and their marriage is blessed with two boys, Alex and Chris. They decided to stay in the Philippines after spending Christmas in 2000.
Currently, she is the President and Co-Founder of Asia CEO Awards, the largest business awards event in the Philippines, and Asia CEO Forum, the largest business event. She also oversees major events across the country that includes the Asia Digital Transformation Summit, Asia Women’s Summit, Asia HR Summit, Asia BPM Summit, Asia Young Leaders Summit, Asia Real Estate Summit, Asia Logistics Summit and Asia Health Summit. Rebecca is also an active professional development speaker across the ASEAN region – Philippines, Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia.
Cover Story
Her achievements have been featured in various media outlets, both on TV and on print. And she hosts her own regular TV program, Self-Made, featuring many of the most successful people in Asia. As a mom, a wife and CEO of her own firm, to say that her plate is full is an understatement. Juggling all these things in her life, it makes me wonder if she has the time to focus on things that matters most.
As business partners, “Working together is our life,” she adds. They are both working towards the same goals of raising a family and running a business. Free time for hobbies? Rebecca shares, “I make the time if I want to do things. Spending time with my family is my hobby. I really value my time.” So she tries to spend each and every moment meaningfully.
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Work-Life Balance
Know your purpose, take action and never give up.
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Rebecca’s day starts at 5:00 in the morning. She begins by cleaning up the house then proceeds to check her emails. She prepares breakfast for the family then goes right back to work after the boys had left for school. After attending to all her emails, Rebecca gets ready for her meetings at her downtown Makati office. She tries to get all her work done for the day by 5:00pm. She drives back home, cooks dinner and the family catches up with the day’s activities over their evening meal. It’s lights out in the Mills residence at 10:00PM. And yes, there are no maids to do all the household chores. “I want to live like our life in Canada, whatever the lifestyle is in Canada.” On weekends, Richard and Rebecca maximizes their time with the kids. Although there are times that they have to attend to urgent emails & calls, as much as possible they want to be there for the boys when needed. With teenagers in the house, sometimes they have their own plans for the weekend so Richard and Rebecca takes the opportunity to ponder on other family matters – family plans, their future and work.
Health is Wealth
For most CEO’s, being fit isn’t just about health or vanity – it’s considered part of their job. It may be perceived as an ineffectiveness both in performance and interpersonal relationships. According to Rebecca, she needs to be an example for her people to follow. Staying healthy with a busy lifestyle is a challenge. She cannot afford to spend hours going to and from the gym. So she has her own gym, sauna and pool right in the comfort of her home. She may not have a regular workout schedule but she considers cleaning the house part of her habit to get not just physically fit but mentally and psychologically fit as well.
How is that possible? Her playlist does not include the latest hits but motivational and learning audios. So while all the mothers out there are singing their hearts out using a broom as their microphone, Rebecca gets her energy to sweep her humble abode to the sounds of Jim Rohn and Tony Robbins.
Unconditional Love
When asked if her mother had any inkling that she will be great someday? Rebecca replies, “She always knew I’m a nice girl (daughter).” A daughter who would put the welfare of the other members of the family first before herself. “After high school, I worked in a factory and saved my money. Instead of buying my own clothes, I buy stuff for the house, for my brothers and sisters. I carry so much stuff for all but none for me.” Her mother would always remind her that she is turning into a woman so she needs to look after herself too. But she would lovingly reply back, “I don’t need it. I want to do this for our home, for my brothers and sisters. That is what makes me happy.” She considers her mother her best friend. They share everything – what hurts them, what gives them joy and their dreams and aspirations for the family. Perhaps that is the reason why at her mother’s death bed, she expressed her utmost desire for Rebecca’s brothers and sisters to have a good life, for them to finish their education. Somehow, she knew that Rebecca will overcome poverty. A promise was made and that promise was fulfilled.
Summer 2016 Kubo Magazine 21
Cover Story
Facing Adversity
“There is no point complaining. Just do it” Easier said than done but Rebecca faced and overcame all the challenges life threw at her. “Challenges? So many, so many. But I always say that challenges make you strong. Challenges make you better. And I know God put me in this (challenge) because He wants me to be a better person. That’s how I see things. I never rethink that I will not be able to overcome those challenges. I always think that this is normal, this is life. And once I overcome this it will be better.” In 2005, Rebecca was diagnosed with brain tumor and given only 6 months to live. “When I was diagnosed with brain tumor, I was happy, I was ready to go. I‘m happy that I have done so much for my family, for our community. But I was wishing to spend more time with my family to see the children grow. If God will continue to give me longer life then I can do more for our country.” She didn’t give up because she knew that there is a higher purpose, a reason to have a second lease on life. She came back to Canada to get the medical help she needed and she was completely healed. “Let’s sing our music while we can because when we die we cannot sing our music anymore.” 22 Kubo Magazine Summer 2016
Advice from the Heart There is no doubt about the inner strength and
determination of this woman. Rebecca exudes it and it’s contagious. No wonder she has become one of the most influential Filipina today. Where does she get it? Aside from overcoming poverty and winning over life’s trials, she looks up to a few powerful women in our society today – Oprah Winfrey, Hillary Clinton, to name a few. “I love Oprah Winfrey. She’s black and so many people put her down. Look where she is now. She’s the most powerful woman in the world. She inspires me. I follow her steps. I can never be Oprah Winfrey. I can never be Hillary Clinton. But I can be the best Rebecca Bustamante.” One last piece of advice from Rebecca, “Know your purpose, take action and never give up.” There will be a lot of hurdles to get to where you want to be. People will put you down. But remain focus on where you’re going. And in your journey, don’t leave it behind but take with you the things that matter most in your life.
Fairview Dental Centre Tel.: (416) 496-0900 Fax: (416) 496-0928 Email: fdcdental@yahoo.com
Biz Buzz
Filipino grocer, the Philippines’ No. 1 burger chain comes to Canada
Seafood City soon to open in Spring 2017, Jollibee plans to open several locations
By Jane Taguicana
M
ary Ann Bie’s grocery list for Seafood City Supermarket is ready. On top of it is a crispy snack she’s been craving for which reminds her of her childhood in the Philippines.
The grocer will house the Philippines’ No. 1 hamburger chain Jollibee, Chowking, balikbayan box provider Atlas Shippers International, Red Ribbon and Valerio’s Tropical Bakeshop.
Ever since she and her husband visited two locations As of early July, Seafood City said it is still negotiating during their West Coast trip in 2013, the 39-year-old from with Goldilocks, which is a staple at some of the grocer’s Mississauga can’t wait for the grocery chain’s opening. locations. Seafood City is the only grocer in the U.S. that carries Bie’s visit started with a stop in Jollibee, which she admits Filipino staple goods and ingredients. It boasts 23 locations was the main attraction in going to the grocer. in four states and is about to open another in Chicago in the fall. The burger chain famous for its Chickenjoy fried chicken and mango-topped hamburger announced earlier in the For Canadians, the wait will be over by Spring 2017 as it year that it will also open stores across Canada. Details opens its first store north of the 49th parallel in Heartland were not provided and requests for interview from this Town Centre in Mississauga. magazine have not been returned. “We’re all excited to open in Canada,” said Mildred Smith, Jollibee Foods Corp. has 2,833 stores worldwide as of Seafood City’s marketing manager. 2014 with locations in about a dozen countries including Singapore, Qatar and the U.S. She said that the store has been looking to open here for a while but the biggest challenge was finding the space. Canada has seen an influx of migrants from the island nation at the beginning of the 21st century, with more “We need a big space because wherever we open, we bring than 700,000 people of Filipino descent calling Canada Filipino Town.” their home. In 2014, Philippines became the top source country for immigration with 40,000 becoming permanent That town will include Grill City, which will serve all- residents. Statistics Canada’s latest survey also find that things barbecue such as the popular skewered pork, Tagalog is the fastest growing language in the country. chicken wings and longganisa. But if you’re craving for crispy pata, fried chicken or pork skin, you can head to About half of these migrants reside in the Greater Toronto Area. Crispy Town, which sells fried snack food. After grocery and snacks, Bie can head to the other stores within the supermarket to send money or grab a balikbayan box, have dinner or stop by at the bakeshops. 24 Kubo Magazine Summer 2016
Biz Buzz
Store crew at the San Francisco store
Mildred Smith at the San Francisco Store
Email: info@ikubomedia.com | Call (647) 300-1970 Summer 2016 Kubo Magazine 25
Celebrate Success
Hard Work Pays Off for a Schulich Leader
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etting a degree these days are costly. A student attending CEGEP, trade school, college or university full-time today is expected to spend between $2,500 and $6,500 per year. Average fees in 1990-1991 were $1,464 then climbed to $6,348 in 2012-2013. Add to that amount the cost of books, fees and living expenses. In fact in 2014-2015, full –time students in Canada paid an average of $16,600 for post-secondary schooling. That’s $66,400 for a four-year program. Grants, bursaries and scholarships are some ways to alleviate the cost of post-secondary education. Grants and bursaries are awarded based on financial need and other factors that includes athletic ability, academic achievement, community involvement and other special abilities. Scholarships on the other hand are usually based on merit as opposed to financial need. These are usually awarded by schools, private organizations and the government. Schulich Leader Scholarship was founded in 2012 by businessman and philanthropist Seymour Schulich. This $100 million program funds 50 Canadian grade 12 high schools students planning to pursue science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programs in Canadian universities. 25 of the scholarships are offered to engineering students valued at $80,000 each and the other 25 are offered to science, technology or math students valued at $60,000.
This year’s 50 Schulich Leaders were chosen from over 1,400 applicants. One of the recipients of this prestigious and highly competitive scholarship is Sandra Saboungi of Toronto Montessori School in Richmond Hill. Read how her hard working attitude opened a bright future for this young lady: 26 Kubo Magazine Summer 2016
By Claire Dela Gana
KM: How does the application process work?
This was titled “A global profile of glucosesensitive endothelial-expressed long noncoding RNAs”. I had the opportunity to work as a research scholar in the Division of Cardiac Surgery at the University of Toronto in this publishing process. Thirdly, I am grateful to be a recipient of the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh award, which recognizes broad-based contributions of adolescents in the areas of volunteering, physical activity, specific skills and expedition.
SS: Each high school in Canada can nominate one student from their graduating class to be an applicant for the scholarship. This decision is usually made by the principal of the school or by another administrative staff member. After their nomination has been submit to the Schulich Foundation, the student must write about their three most important achievements and a 600-word essay on why they would make a great Schulich Leader. The review process ends in June and the Schulich Leaders are confirmed. Nominees are chosen KM: How did you found out you had won based on academic excellence, outstanding the Schulich Leaders scholarship? What extracurricular or volunteer work and/or was that experience like? financial needs. SS: I was emailed in late April by one of the KM: What were your three most faculty members at Western University saying I had won the scholarship. It was insane and important achievements? unbelievable for me because I remember SS: I am grateful to have been able to develop checking the scholarship website every day an independent charitable organization for for weeks prior to that day, and reading an underprivileged school in The Philippines the news about all of the winners being called Besong Saddle Primary School. selected at other universities. I was getting Throughout my high school career, I have worried because the number of offers left donated 500 textbooks for the students at this was becoming very narrow. At that point, I had already come to terms with the fact that school. I probably wouldn’t be selected. When I read The experience of visiting the school a few the email I was both thrilled and shocked. My times and organizing fundraisers to support parents were ecstatic. It was a great thing, them has been a huge eye-opener for me: we not because of the money, but because of the need to do more to make education accessible recognition that comes with the award and in developing worlds. Secondly, I am thankful the feeling of hard work paying off. for the opportunity to be a co-author on a scientific publication in the Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology.
Celebrate Success
2016 SCHULICH LEADERS SELECTION HIGHLIGHTS
Sandra with her family
KM: What lessons have you learned in this entire process that you’d like to share to Kubo Magazine readers? SS: This past year has been a rollercoaster for me in terms of applying and hearing back from my choice universities and scholarship programs. The side of the story that most people don’t hear is that I was in fact rejected from my top choice program. This is surprising for most because I was awarded a scholarship that only 25 science students in Canada receive. Although it was crushing for me when I heard the news, I have learned that we all experience rejection. Nobel Prizewinning researchers have had their theses turned down multiple times before finally receiving widespread acceptance in their respective fields of study. Award-winning medical researchers have had their papers rejected by multiple magazines before finally being published. Rejection happens to everyone- even the best of us. This is something inevitable, but it does not mean that we should lose faith in ourselves or in our dreams. Big dreams don’t come easily, but it is important that we never let experiences like this affect our mindset. Sometimes it may seem like the road is windier for you than for others, but with passion and the willingness to succeed, you can achieve anything you dream of. KM: How do you see yourself in the next 5 years? KM: Have you made a decision whether to go to Western University or go directly to study medicine at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland? SS: I have decided to attend Western University in the fall for the undergraduate degree program Medical Sciences. Although there is some attractiveness in directly entering medical school following high school and skipping a four-year undergraduate degree program, I have a passion for learning and upon making my decision, I didn’t feel any need to rush my education towards becoming a successful and outstanding doctor. The Schulich Leader Scholarship awarded to me by Western University assured me in my decision to attend the University in the fall.
SS: For the next four years, I will be completing my undergraduate degree at Western University. I see myself continuing to work hard for my classes and slowly become more independent. I would like to continue volunteering alongside my studies and perhaps be a part of a student body organization at the University. One of my main priorities every summer will be to visit The Philippines and continue my charity work with Besong Saddle Primary School. Following completion of my undergraduate degree program, I am hoping to attend a researchintensive medical school in Canada or in the States. I want to continue to be hard working and maintain a positive mindset in everything I do. Socially aware, confident and giving are three words that describe the person I would like to be five years from now.
Summer 2016 Kubo Magazine 27
Celebrate Success
Grind Now
Shine Later By Claire Dela Gana
His love for sports did not deter him to find his passion. He wanted to be a medical doctor. He failed at his first attempt to get into a medical school. So he vowed to improve his curriculum vitae and did more schooling. He was not very keen on going to wet lab but fell in love with it while doing his graduate studies. Justin relates, “It’s not until you get in the lab, doing Justin Parreno, born in Calgary, is not spared your own work and having that personal from this demand. He adds, “Education was a connection to your work. That you really get big thing for the family. They always wanted stuck and get addicted to scientific research.” me to pursue education.” His father came to Canada with a degree in commerce, worked He adds, “Research is like an art form. There’s a for CP Rail as a train painter and retired as a lot of thinking involved. You bring an element fork-lift operator with Sears. His mother was a of creativity. You bring your own flair and that nurse in the Philippines and retired as a nurse is what I want, to bring my own flair to my in Calgary. His parents are very supportive and research, customize it to my own liking. And I pushed him to be the best that he can be. They think as Filipinos, we have something special. encouraged him to do a lot of things. “I always We are not only hard working people but also had the sense that I can do anything because we can take something from almost nothing. that is what my parents thought me. They I grew up in a lot of family parties where you instilled confidence in me with my abilities. see old yoghurt containers used for baon or They always knew I will be great someday.” to-go, like a Tupperware-kind of thing. I can bring that know-how to my research and I’ve Indeed, he did great. Well, not in playing a done that – bring a low cost methodology to musical instruments but in sports. He played improve something.” both basketball and hockey competitively and landed in top leagues for his age group. His research work gravitated towards bones Her mother thought he was well on his way and joint disease because of his interest in to joining the big league of NHL that’s why sports. He worked at the University of Calgary she cried when he quit hockey to focus on Bone and Joint Institute looking at how cells basketball. He did not only played basketball in the body respond to mechanical loads in a but he coached over 7 years for a junior high micro-gravity environment such as in outer school basketball team. space where your bone remodels itself and decreases bone mass.
He was a contributing writer of the Canadian Space Gazette, a publication for the Canadian Space Society. His current research at Mount Sinai Foundation is focused on developing cartilage replacement for osteoarthritis – an improved biological alternative using cellbased repair. It will be a better option over the current treatment of metal, plastics or ceramics that needs to be replaced every 1015 years. Sharing his learnings to the next generation of Filipino Canadians, Justin states, “It’s a little bit of a cliché but I truly believe to just follow your passion. My passion is for scientific research but others may have a different passion and that’s great. Just follow your passion and that’s what will get you going. I wake up every morning wanting to go to work, wanting to go to the lab and figuring things out. And that’s just because I found my passion. So I can work and put in a persistent effort into each and every day, each and every hour, and each and every minute to that goal I’m trying to achieve because I just love it so much.”
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I always had the sense that I can do anything because that is what my parents thought me.
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G
etting a good education is of utmost importance to Filipinos. A diploma is a must. Parents believe that education is indispensable, a legacy that should be passed from one generation to the next. And this holds true for most Filipinos, if not all, wherever they are on this planet.
Celebrate Success
Source: The Arthritis Society, Arthritis in Canada, Facts & Figures, Updated February 2015
Canadian aged 15 years and
of Canadian
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adults are
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In 2036,
Or,
Adult Canadians
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Estimated Canadian adults with arthritis
Canadians
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Does he consider himself successful? “I would consider myself on the way to being successful. I am where I want to be. My goal is to have an independent lab, be a university professor. I graduated from my PhD (last year) and started post-doc with Mount Sinai.” All these are in his 5 year plan. With a baby boy coming soon, he is optimistic fatherhood will not slow it down. Justin is very excited to have a family and looking forward to starting that chapter of his life. He would like to give his son the same opportunity that his parents gave him. He adds, “Being in school for so long, you sort of neglected some things in life. This will be good for me. It will be a great work and life balance. It’s a challenge I’m looking forward to.” At the end of the day, all he wants is to be the best dad and the best scientist he can be. Justin’s parents always knew he was going to be great someday. With all the awards and honors bestowed on him, a Nobel Peace Prize is not a far-fetched dream. But for now, he will have to keep grinding those pipetting thumbs at the lab on his way to success. As they say, the bigger the dream the harder the grind.
Summer 2016 Kubo Magazine 29
Celebrate Success
FIL-CAN LADY PREXY FOR ROTARY CLUB OF TORONTO By Mann Nacario Philippine born Susan Flores Hunter made history by taking the helm of one of Toronto’s most prestigious and one of Canada’s oldest clubs, The Rotary Club of Toronto. Since its inception in 1912, the Rotary Club of Toronto had evolved to one of Canada’s premier club, serving the community with unselfish fervor and undying dedication to public welfare. Ms. Hunter graduated from the University of Toronto with a degree in political science, worked as Vice President at AON Canada, a global human consulting and outsourcing solutions firm. Later, she continued in private practice as President & Senior consultant at Hunter & Associates, a consulting firm that helps companies manage and improve organizational effectiveness and performance. Susan was cited by the Lions Club - for Outstanding President of Young Liberal Party, at the University of Toronto and by the Rotary Club of Toronto – for Outstanding Award for Canadian and International Community Services. Susan Flores Hunter became a Rotarian in 2002 following a long family tradition of Rotary service and community involvement. She was Chair of Community Services, participated in the One-on-One Mentoring Program and the Forward Planning Group. She was the lead volunteer organizer for the Rotary Drive Build with Habitat for Humanity. In 2006, Susan joined the Board of Directors. She was involved in the Search Committee to find a new Executive Director for the Club. She worked with Catherine Lloyd to establish the Pauline Hill Award. She then joined the Strategic Planning Committee and initiated the work involved in Effective Committees, 30 Kubo Magazine Summer 2016
Swearing-In Ceremony for Rotary Club of Toronto, President Susan Flores Hunter with outgoing President David Hetherington
member of the Research & Appeals Committee, served as Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee, the Executive Committee, the Honours & Awards Committee and is a member of the Foundation Board. Along with her husband Hedley, Susan has travelled on sweat equity trips to Siem Reap, Cambodia. She recently returned from her fourth Rotary International Convention in Seoul, South Korea. The Rotary Club of Toronto continued its various programs through its RCT Health Bus that provides quality health care to 13,000 homeless people in the community, Toronto Transition Centre, a medical facility sponsored by the club that provides temporary and safe environment for homeless people, Toronto Adolescent Recovery Centre (TARC) the club’s commitment to get street children out of the street and provide residential treatment for young addicted people, and many more public services for the community
In her swearing in ceremony at the National Club last July 8, 2016. We witnessed a historical moment were Susan received her Presidential Pin from outgoing RCT, President David Hetherington. Susan’s family was in attendance to show full support to her campaign and leadership for the continued success of the Rotary club of Toronto. Susan is a daughter of Eligio and Clarita Flores. The Rotary Club of Toronto new officers are: President: Susan Hunter, PresidentElect: Pat Neuman, Vice President: Jeff Dobson, Treasurer: James McAuley. Executive Director: Carol Hutchinson, Rotary Club of Toronto Charitable Foundation: Peter Love, President. To learn more about the Rotary Club of Toronto or get in touch with Susan Hunter, go to their website: www.rotarytoronto.com, call Susan Hunter at 416-822-8409 or email: sfhunter@hotmail.com.
Photo by: digicambay.com
Community
Hot issues explained from pot laws to assisted suicide By Jane Taguicana
AUTISM INTENSIVE BEHAVIOURAL INTERVENTION (IBI) PROGRAM
A
fter much uproar from parents and advocates of children with autism, the Ontario Liberal government changed its tune on funding the IBI program for children five years and over. It announced at the end of June that the new Ontario Autism Program will “provide all children, regardless of age, with more flexible services at a level of intensity that meets each child’s individual needs,” said the Ministry of Children and Youth Services in a statement. The changes will also include an additional $200 million of funding over four years and will start by June 2017 as opposed to a two-year wait. The program, which was first announced in March, included a $333 million investment over five years. But the government’s controversial decision to pull the plug on the IBI program, which would have affected 3,500 children, sparked protests and social media campaign #autismdoesntendat5. The feud over the funding was so intense an MPP even called police on a Filipino mother who planned to protest outside of the Liberal’s office. The province stopped short though of calling the earlier announcement a mistake, emphasizing that the revamp is due to listening to its constituents. The province estimates there are 40,000 children with autism. Parents can call toll free 1-888-2848340 for more information. 32 Kubo Magazine Summer 2016
MARIJUANA LAW The raid on several pot dispensaries in Toronto this summer has raised a question on whether marijuana is legal or not. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau promised to legalize it when he was campaigning last year but has announced in Spring that a law won’t be introduced until early 2017. Right now, marijuana possession is legal as long as you are using it for medical purposes. You’d have to have a prescription from your physician or specialist to purchase one while you need to obtain a licence to grow it.
Community
ASSISTED DYING The medical practitioners who administer death have the option to refuse aid for reasons of conscience or religion. They will not face prosecution if they choose to help. It is important to note that families Canada joined a handful of countries of members of the armed forces and when it legalized medical assistance in veterans who choose this option will not be deprived of their pensions. dying in mid-June. Canadians over 18 years who are “suffering intolerably from a serious medical condition” can now ask a doctor or a nurse to help end their lives.
“The proposed approach was carefully designed to recognize and respect the individual choice of a medically assisted death for adults who are suffering intolerably and are on a foreseeable course toward the end of their lives,” said the Federal Health Ministry in a release.
The law calls for a parliamentary review in five years and Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould promised to study extending the right to die to those who have mental illness and who want to leave instruction in advance in case they fall hopelessly ill.
Assisted dying is currently legal in some U.S. states such as Washington This law only applies to residents and California. It is also practiced in eligible for coverage by a government the Netherlands, Albania, Colombia health plan unlike in some jurisdictions and Japan. that allow the person to administer his or her own death. In Switzerland, non-residents can get a permit to die while in Belgium, children and those mentally ill can seek euthanasia.
SAME-SEX MARRIAGE Toronto celebrated its first Pride month in the shadow of the recent shootings at gay nightclub Pulse in Orlando, Fla. Apart from making the weeklong festivity a month-long celebration, we also saw the three levels of government showing support, with Justin Trudeau leading the way in the parade. He is the first Canadian prime minister to do so. This shows how far the society has come in accepting the LGBTQ communities. Canada passed the Civil Marriage Act into a law in 2005 legalizing same-sex marriage. The legislation is anchored in two fundamental Charter of Rights and Freedom principles: the right of every Canadian to equality without discrimination, and the right to religious freedom. At the time the law was passed, Canada was the only fourth country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. Eleven years since its passage, more than 20 countries recognize same-sex marriage.
Sports Update Update
WINNING IS NOT ALL ABOUT THE
CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY By Coach M
Sports
T
wo years ago I envisioned of bringing back home a group of special kids to showcase their basketball talent and let them experience the beauty of their ancestral country. And with the help of friends, networks and technology I got hold of few collegiate and university coaches to schedule exhibition games. To add with I got in touch with NBTC Program Director Eric Altamirano and sold the idea of having our team as a guest on their annual National High School Championships. Coach E as most people call him asked for our resume and game video for evaluation. I sent my wife Marlyn to meet personally Eric in Manila to show that we are dead serious in this endeavour. A year later we got the formal acceptance and invitation to join the prestigious tournament. With this I asked the help and guidance of our good NABA Commissioner Ron Damasco and NABA Liaison Officer Edgar Tojino as we prepare for this journey. We held a tryout with the help of my DCB family and assembled the team.
34 Kubo Magazine Summer 2016
Then we mapped out the plan and finances for the trip. We had media blitz through the help of Kuya Jojo Taduran and Li Eron. We had radio program interviews with Pinoy Radio Program host Judith Gonzales, Arlyn Ayo, Randy Bucao, Tony San Juan and Talakayan Radio Host Karen Tan, Jesse and May Cabrias. Filipino Bulletin Carlos Unas, Balita’s Tess Casuipag and Filipino Waves Tess Torralba provided their support through their news papers. We were also able to drum support from local business like Mr. Arnaldo’s PNB Remittance, Mr. Gutierrez of TFC, Body Bliss and V Six Consulting to name a few. Fast rising local artist Fieness Mendoza and Keanna Cerezo helped by showcasing their talent on our fund raising concert for the team. Team practices were held every Saturday at Northview Heights Secondary School with Assistant Coaches Ramon Lim and Abe Oligane at the helm. And on Feb 23 high on spirits we embarked our journey back home with the mission on winning them all. The first week of our stay was spent with our families, relatives and relaxation visits to tourist destinations.
First stop was at Tagaytay to see the beauty of the famous Taal Volcano. The next day we attended the SM NBTC press conference held at the Mall of Asia with Coach Eric, Alaska Coach Alex Compton and legendary San Beda Jr. Coach Ato Badolato. We also had a chance to visit ABS CBN TV Station and watched Show Time. The following week we played exhibition games against different college and universities starting with my my high school alma mater Pasig Catholic College which ended up with a 80 all draw. The first game was a rude awakening as we experience first hand the brutal heat of the weather and the speed, agility and hard work of Filipino basketball brand of play. The second stop was an upset win against Jose Rizal Univeristy Mens Basketball Team B of PBA Aerial Voyager Vergel Meneses. On the 3rd day we faced the San Beda College Mens Team B and lost by 7 but gained the admiration of their Team Manager Jude Roque. The team was fatigued due to the weather and we lost by 11 to a well oiled Mapua Mens Basketball Team of Coach Atoy Co on our 4th exhibition game.
Sports
Sports Update
The following day we were able to rest due to unavailability of Team UP Diliman of Coach Rensy Bajar to play. It allowed us to recover from the hot weather and busy schedule. On our final exhibition assignment we defeated De LaSalle Greenhills Jr. Team. With a 2-2 win loss record at hand against top colleges and universities I felt that we are getting ready for the NBTC tournament. However I must admit that the brunt of organizing this journey and pressures from coaching the team was also taking a toll on me. We rested for another day and I prayed to the basketball gods to guide and help us get through. Tension excitement and anxiety were piling up and tried my best to maintain composure and focus. On the day of the tournament we were all hyped up as we learned that we will play the opening game against former NBTC national champion Chiang Kai Shek with our good Ambassador Neil Reeder watching at the sidelines cheering for us. We cant explain how proud and excited we were during the parade and as the Canadian national anthem was sang by Keesha Cerezo.
Sports Update
There was an adrenaline rush in our system as we await our game. We started the game with bang making our opponent looked clueless as to what may have hit them. Fil Canadian sensation James Canlas sizzled through the first three quarters with mainstay Avan Nava, Matthew Daves and Robert Ocampo contributing as well. However the former champion did not go down without a fight, used the last quarter to mount a fierce come back and took advantage of our last two misplays to deliver the winning dagger on the final buzzer. 60-62 was the final score. We were all shocked and at lost as to what has happened in this must win game for us in order to advance to the semifinals. Cracks began to show and morale was at its lowest. The next day we faced St. Roberts International, Visayas Region Champion from Iloilo and here we vented our anger and demolished the opponent with a whooping 45 point win advantage. Although we got eliminated we were left with a consolation of having three players from our team getting invited to play for the NBTC All Star Game and Events. James Canlas, Matthew Daves and Phaul Peralta played on the All Star Game.
Chew was a runner up on the Slam Dunk Contest and Team Canada of Alvin Florido, Andre Cruz, Rob Ocampo and Matthew Oligane was a finalist at the NBTC 3 on 3 Championships. We also had players who got interest and offers from coaches of college and universities to play back home. It was a very good experience over all and lessons were learned. While we have all hoped of winning the championships and lost I looked at the bigger picture of what we have achieved. We did not win the championship trophy but we got a lot of respect from our opponents, coaches and organizers. Organizers were so impressed with how we carried ourselves during the course of the tournament that we got an automatic slot for next years championship. We will always treasure the lessons learned and the experience we have gained. We made lots of friends and followers. With this I came to realize that winning was not all about the championship trophy but finding peace and pride knowing we did our best and gave it all.
Summer 2016 Kubo Magazine 35
What’s On
Fairy Tales Come True By Deo Moreno
O
ne might find it curious to discover a castle and enchanted park would be located in Midland in Georgian Bay. Now a group of Filipinos who recently bought the property hopes that same curiosity will generate more visitors. You may ask why anyone would buy a castle. It all started when Nenita Aguirre visited the castle after a pilgrimage to Martyrs’ Shrine Church, a man walked by and greeted her. She jokingly said, “I wish to live in a castle someday.” And he replied, “As you wish.”, and just like a fairy tale, it came true. Later on Nenita and other entrepreneurs came together to revitalize this tourist attraction with a long-term vision to build affordable housing for 55+ with active lifestyle however, they want to first build a campground resort as the beginning of a castle village. Enchanted Kingdom Park is now open with acres of nature trail, delightful fairy-tale houses, and treats at the candy store. On weekends, journey into the medieval times and experience live action performances Inside the castle you can listen to music with your coffee to complement pan de sal bread amidst the jewelry, costumes and unique items. Artwork from local and international artists that are on sale compliments the lobby and they also have one of the largest collections of medieval arms and heraldry. They have scheduled events in the evenings ranging from acoustic music to masquerade parties.
36 Kubo Magazine Summer 2016
One of the new attractions, “Escape the Dungeon” is an escape-room adventure game where a group of people have to work together to solve puzzles, find clues, and accomplish a mission. Our kababayans waved the Philippine flag on the castle towers during its grand opening last August 6th. Enchanted Kingdom Park is located at 701 Balm Beach Road in Midland, Ontario. Check them out: www.castlevillage.ca for more information.
Light at the End of the Tunnel Mae Janelle Berte launched her debut EP, Penumbra, which represents a new take on the “light at the end of the tunnel” metaphor. Penumbra is an acceptance of one’s obstacles and the recognition of revealing one’s hopefulness amidst the struggles, as the song, Lost Lustre, portrays. The EP reflects this musical yin and yang through the intertwining of dark and somber textures with soft and ambient elements against Mae Janelle’s vulnerability in her vocals. Produced alongside local producers John “Tiny” Joven and Philynch, with feature producer Gee, Penumbra hints on the vibes of the Toronto urban sound popularized by acts like Party Next Door, Drake and others, as heard in the songs Drive Away, If You’re in Love, Jacqueline and Needs, with a unique and personal undertaking. Download Penumbra EP on iTunes/Bandcamp.
A New Tribe Rises
What’s On
CPO: 31
Going &Strong
Photo by Boyet Marteja
Rise Tribe Board of Directors, from left to right, ??, Jackwayne Balancio, Charzie Castillo, Abby Albino, Louroz Mercader, Adam Robles, Jessie Asido, Mark Vallena and Nez Lac.
R
ise Tribe is a new community organization whose mission is to inspire and mentor the next generation of emerging Filipino leaders in Canada was launched last June 23rd at the Mattamy Athletic Centre in Toronto. It aims to Re-DEFINE by promoting a positive and proud image of Filipino Canadians; to Re-SHAPE the Filipino interests across Canada by tackling the root causes of issues facing our community; and, to Re-IMAGINE by celebrating accomplishments and build on the success for the next generation. Rise Tribe is now seeking for mentors and committee volunteers.
Culture Philippines Ontario (CPO) has been performing in various festival across the Greater Toronto Area in the last 31 years. It is a non-profit, community-based and child centered organization established in 1985. CPO has been hosting the Philippine Pavilion at the Carassauga Festival of Cultures (Mississauga) since its inception in 1985. Carassauaga is the largest multicultural festival in Ontario and is now recognized as the 2nd largest cultural festival in Canada in terms of visits & ethnic diversity representation. CPO’s objective is to retain Filipino cultural heritage by providing music, dance and performing arts instructions to children in Canada and share it with the community. Catch them at various Filipino festivals in the GTA this summer.
The Nightingales Enchant Toronto By Michelle Chermaine Ramos
T
he Nightingales started off the Toronto Philippine Consulate General’s Independence Day weekend festivities with a bang on Friday June 10th 2016 at the Alliance Francaise theatre in downtown Toronto where guests were treated to a sumptuous cocktail reception before the show. Bianca Camille Lopez and Aizel Izza PrietosLivioco enchanted the crowd with a selection of opera arias, Broadway classics and their twist on modern pop songs. The incredible duo with angelic voices are alumnae of the renowned Philippine Madrigal Singers. Handpicked at a young age as voice scholars at the Makiling High School for the Arts before studying vocal performance at the University of the Philippines College of Music, they are now known as some of the youngest and most powerful classical singers in the country. They are on their first international tour outside of Asia bringing with them the pride of the Philippines as they showcase the country’s vibrant culture with their world- class talents. The nightingales began their concert with some Broadway classics.
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