Yes Philippines News Magazine UK March 2021 (Series 03)

Philippine-born

James Bond Actress and So Much More RACHEL GRANT

PHOTO BY Olivier Robinet

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LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

As the cold and

by Mary Sol Pimentel

days of

dwindle and fresh buds of delightful daffodils, tulips and crocuses start to sprout, we instinctively set ourselves in a renewal mode. Many of us embark on a spring clean, not just of our homes, but also of our minds and bodies. For some of us, spring means starting new projects or journeying in a new direction.

The crisp, bright days of spring also bring about fresh ideas, some of which have made their way to your favourite newsmagazine. In this month’s issue of Yes Philippines, we are launching two new sections. Realising that there is a treasure trove of historical facts waiting to be rediscovered, we have arranged with an online archive of Philippine history, The Kahimyang Project, to publish articles from its website. It is most fitting that the first featured article is on Ferdinand Magellan’s discovery of the Philippines in March 1521.

Aside from reviewing our past, we also aim to learn about present events in our home country. With that in mind, we have sought out a distinguished media network, ABS-CBN, which has kindly granted us permission to avail of their

Filipino performing artists have made their mark here in the UK with their world-class acting and musical talents. What better way to acknowledge their contributions to our community’s achievements than to provide a special section in our newsmagazine for these Pinoys who do us proud? So, starting in this issue, we are introducing a Creatives’ Corner.

In March, we celebrate International Women’s Day. We look at this event from a Filipino perspective with a feature on a month-long set of activities being held back home. We also have a story about a Filipino woman suffragist.

For a glimpse into Filipino culture and traditions, one of our regular writers has a piece on children’s games, which evokes pleasant memories of bygone days spent playing patintero on a suburban street. Complementing this is an article discussing the importance of a happy childhood, written by another valued contributor.

Those are just some of the many informative and entertaining pieces that fill the pages of this month’s issue. So, take a break from your spring cleaning, sit down and enjoy your copy of Yes Philippines.

Happy reading!

hen white-petalled snowdrops are in bloom, you can be sure that spring is here.

dark

winter

The

bright days of spring also bring about fresh ideas, some of which have made their way to your favourite

immigration corner WITH LIRA SIMON CABATBAT

NHS treatment and Immigration

Access to health care has never been more important than now. This article explores who can access free health care via the National Health Service (NHS) and who cannot. Contrary to what some believe NHS care is not public funds so receiving medical care from the NHS will not be in breach of your immigration status where you have limited leave to remain. Beware, however, of NHS debts which is also discussed below.

Primary care

NHS England defines primary care services as “the first point of contact in the healthcare system, acting as the ‘front door’ of the NHS.”.

Primary care services are provided by your General Practice (GP / doctor) or in emergencies, treatment at an Accident and Emergency department. This means that once you are registered with a GP any treatment you receive from your GP is free of charge. Likewise, if you meet with an accident and you require emergency treatment at a hospital such procedure will also not be chargeable as both are regarded “primary care”. It is important to note that free Primary care service will apply regardless of your immigration status.

Registering with a GP

Anyone in England can register with a GP. GPs will generally register you with their practice if they have capacity and this is again regardless of your immigration status. The GP surgery will ask you to complete some forms and may ask if you have a visa – they should not refuse your registration because you have limited leave such as say a spouse visa, or if you are an overstayer. Once registered consultation with your GP under the NHS is not chargeable.

If you are in an unfortunate position of needing further medical help beyond primary care, the next consideration is whether the further NHS procedure you need is

chargeable. Are you entitled to free NHS “secondary care”?

Secondary Care

If you need follow up treatment following your GP visit or after an accident, your entitlement to free secondary care will depend on two things. The first is whether you are “ordinarily resident” in the UK and secondly whether you have “settled status” in the UK. If you do not have both then you will be charged for secondary treatment which is basically everything beyond primary care. For example, undergoing physiotherapy following an accident will be considered secondary care.

Ordinarily Resident

It is a question of fact if you are ordinarily resident in the UK. To assess this, you will be asked by the Hospital various questions including whether you usually live in the UK? Do you have a permanent address? Do you work in the UK? An overstayer can be ordinarily resident; by the same token a British citizen may not be ordinarily resident in the UK. This means that a British citizen who recently returned to the UK but does not usually live here may not be ordinarily resident in the UK and will not be able to access free NHS secondary care.

Settled status

Settled status means you have permanent residence status in the UK. A British citizen or someone with settled status (Indefinite Leave to Remain) will have Settled status for the purpose of free NHS secondary care.

The above means that if you are ordinarily resident and have settled status in the UK you will not be required to pay for NHS medical help that amount to secondary care. Fortunately, this is not the end of the matter in that if you have limited leave (visa) you can still access NHS secondary care free of charge provided you paid the relevant Immigration Health Surcharge when you applied to enter or remain in the UK.

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

If you have limited leave (visa) and have paid the IHS you can use the

NHS in a similar way to an ordinarily resident person while your visa remains valid. IHS is the fee that you pay, additionally, when you submit your application to the Home Office. This is presently calculated at £600 per year. If you are applying for a spouse visa this is will be £1500 (£600 x 2.5 years). This means that if you are in the UK with limited leave, such as a spouse, you will not be charged for secondary care carried out under the NHS. You will still need to pay for certain NHS services, including prescriptions, dental treatment and assisted conception services but secondary care will be free under the NHS.

How will the hospital know if you are entitled to free treatment under the NHS?

The hospital will usually email the Home Office via a dedicated Status Verification and Enquiries Checking (SVEC) to enquire about your immigration (settlement or IHS payment) and for your residency (ordinarily resident) status. If you satisfy the requirements, then you are entitled to NHS secondary care and will not be required to pay for such treatment.

No information about your medical condition is sent to the Home Office.

For some medical conditions you may be entitled to free treatment regardless of your immigration status. This means even if you are an overstayer you can receive NHS secondary care treatment without being charged for it.

If you receive treatment and are billed for this because you are deemed not entitled to NHS (free) secondary care and you do not pay the hospital’s bill any application, you later make to the Home Office may be refused if you have a debt to the NHS.

NHS debts

Immigration rules provide that applications for entry clearance or leave to remain in the UK may be refused if the applicant failed to pay an NHS charge or charges totalling to at least £500. Note that this only

Disclaimer

applies where the debt was incurred after the 6th of April 2016. If the debt was incurred between 1 November 2011 and 5 April 2016, the limit is higher at £1000. This means if you were billed for treatment under the NHS and you did not pay it, your application to the Home Office to return to the UK or for leave to remain in the UK may be refused. Beware that hospitals do not always get this right as I have dealt with cases where my clients were incorrectly charged for NHS medical treatment. If you are in doubt you should challenge the bill.

Free Treatment regardless of status

A full list of the 33 medical conditions for which free treatment is available is on the Home Office’s website. In addition to the list free treatment is available for the following:

• COVID-19 investigation, diagnosis, and treatment

• diagnosing and treating sexually transmitted infections

• family planning services (does not include termination of pregnancy or infertility treatment)

• services for treating a physical or mental condition caused by torture, female genital mutilation, domestic violence, or sexual violence

• palliative care services provided by a registered palliative care charity or a community interest company

• services that are provided as part of the NHS 111 telephone advice line

COVID-19 treatment

Do not be afraid to get treatment or be vaccinated even if you are an overstayer as your information will not be shared, by the NHS, to the Home Office. The Government has already announced that they will not ask the NHS for information received from patients’ treatment for COVID for immigration reasons.

The author or Douglass Simon Solicitors are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. All information in this site is provided “as is”, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness or of the results obtained from the use of this information.

LIRA SIMON CABATBAT

Lira has been in practice as an Immigration and Family solicitor for over 26 years and is the senior partner of Douglass Simon Solicitors. She is an accredited Resolution (First for Family) specialist and is a fluent Tagalog speaker. Douglass Simon has been established for over two decades and has been a centre of excellence, especially in the areas of Immigration, Family and Probate. We have received commendations from Judges and clients alike.

info@douglass-simon.com

SENIOR Partner | DOUGLASS SIMON SOLICITORS

philippine history

The Day Ferdinand Magellan Discovered the Philippines

On Saturday March 16, 1521, Ferdinand Magellan was sailing westward looking for the Moluccas or Spice Islands when he sighted an island that had very lofty mountains. He and his fleet have just left the islands of Canoyas, which was later called the Ladrones, named after the thievish propensities of its inhabitants. (It is now known as the Marianas Islands).

Soon after, they learned that the mountainous island was called Zamal, which is the present-day Samar Island, a distant three hundred leagues from the islands of the Ladrones. On the following day, the sea-worn expedition, landed on a little uninhabited island south of Samar, which Antonio Pigafetta (Magellan’s chronicler) called Humunu, and is known today as Homonhon, a barangay in Guiuan, Eastern Samar.

On March 17 while still anchored, they were visited by several canoes or praus carrying the principal chiefs of Suluan named Inaroyan, Limbas, Bucad, Layong, Calipay, Badiao,

Cabuling, and the Datu, GarasGaras. Suluan is an island about 20 kilometres off to the east from Homonhon facing the Pacific Ocean.

These men came aboard, and Magellan explained to them through an interpreter, that the King of Spain had sent them not to do any damage, but to spread the Faith of Christ and convert them to the True Religion. As they were so well received, they called Homonhon "Nueva Providencia".

The next day was stormy and nothing was done until March 19, when most the Spaniards disembarked, leaving only enough men to guard the vessels. Mass was celebrated and after the ceremony a tall cross was raised near the shore. Datu Garas-Garas, Iranoyan, and the others then entered into a treaty of friendship with Don Fernando de Magallanes (Ferdinand Magellan), representing His Majesty, which was drawn up by Leon de Espeleta, Secretary and Notary of the expedition.

Antonio Pigafetta said that they stayed on the island of Homonhon for eight days but had great difficulty in securing food. The natives brought them a few cocoanuts and oranges, palm wine, and a chicken or two, but this was all that could be spared, so on the 25th, the Spaniards sailed again, and near the south end of Leyte landed on the little island of Limasaua. Here, there was a village, where they met two chieftains, whom Pigafetta calls "Kings", and

whose names were Raja Calambú and Raja Ciagu. These two chieftains were visiting Limasaua and had their residences, one at Butúan and one at Cagayan, on the island of Mindanao.

On the island of Limasaua, the natives had dogs, cats, hogs, goats and fowls. They were cultivating rice, maize, breadfruit, and had cocoanuts, oranges, bananas, citron, and ginger. Pigafetta tells how he visited one of the chieftains at his home on the shore. The house was built raised on posts and thatched. Pigafetta thought it looked "like a haystack".

It had been the day of San Lazarus when the Spaniards first reached these islands, so that Magellan gave the group the name of the Archipelago of Saint Lazarus, the name under which the Philippines were frequently described in the early writings, although another title, Islas del Poniente or Islands of the West, was more common up to the time when the title Filipinas became fixed.

Magellan’s people were getting desperately in need of food, and the population on Limasaua had very inadequate supplies; consequently, the natives directed him to the island of Cebu, and provided him with guides.

Leaving Limasaua, the fleet sailed for Cebu, passing several large islands, among them Bohol, and reaching Cebu harbour on Sunday, April 7. A junk from Siam was anchored at Cebu when Magellan’s ships arrived there; and this, together with the knowledge that the Filipinos showed the surrounding countries, including China on the one side and the Moluccas on the other, is evidence of the extensive trade relations at the time of the discovery.

Cebu was a large town, and it was reported that more than two thousand warriors with their lances appeared to resist the landing of the Spaniards, but assurances of friendliness finally won over the Cebuanos, and Magellan formed a compact with the Datu of Cebu, whose name was Hamalbar, identified in Philippine history today as Rajah Humabon.

The Kahimyang Project at www.kahimyang.com

Editor’s note: Special thanks to Primo Esteria of the Kahimyang Project who has given us permission to publish articles from his website.

Ferdinand Magellan

1. Where did you study nursing? Please state the college or university.

I studied nursing at the Philippine Women’ University. I took post graduate courses at the University of the Philippines and in the UK.

2. Why did you choose nursing as a career?

I chose nursing as it is a very rewarding profession, focused on helping others, and because it is an opportunity to make a difference in other people’s lives. There are plenty of opportunities to grow in the nursing profession. It is both challenging and rewarding.

3. When did you arrive in the UK?

I arrived in this country in 2000.

FRONTLINERS Q&A

4. Do you have your family with you? Tell us about them.

Yes. My husband, Joel, travels between the Philippines and the UK due to his business whilst my daughter Frances is currently a third-year medical student at Exeter University.

5. Where did you work before coming to the UK? Before coming to the UK, I worked as a theatre nurse at the Philippine General Hospital in Manila.

6. How would you compare working in the UK with where you worked before?

In the UK, patients are very lucky as they are given the best care possible for free. While in the Philippines, it may not be always possible as we do not have enough financial

resources to provide care.

7. What are your responsibilities as Clinical Theatre Manager?

My responsibility as a Clinical Theatre Manager is so multifaceted, from finance to HR issues. However, my main responsibility is to see to it that patients are safe by ensuring a high standard of patient care and challenging poor practice. As a manager, I have to be a role model, to uphold the Trust values and lead staff to achieve Trust goals and objectives.

8. What do you like most about living in the UK?

For a nurse working in the UK, the possibilities are endless if you work hard and believe in yourself, that you can go beyond expectations.

9. Do you intend to stay in the UK for good? Why/why not?

I intend to stay both in the UK and in the Philippines. My daughter is here so I may have to travel between both countries once I retire. But not for a while yet though.

10. What are your career plans and other future goals?

My future goal is to move forward with my career and to inspire other Filipino nurses to take up management roles in the NHS. The NHS is so diverse hence we as Filipino nurses should be well presented in all aspects of patient care and management.

Rhona Eslabra Clinical Theatre Manager

Imperial College Healthcare Trust Saint Mary’s Hospital and The Western Eye Hospital

As a manager, I have to be a role model, to uphold the Trust values and lead staff to achieve Trust goals and objectives.

theme of the month

The 2021 National Women’s Month Celebration

The 2021 National Women’s Month Celebration serves as a tribute, a platform, and a call to action that highlights the extraordinary roles of ordinary Juanas in the society as trailblazers and harbingers of change. This celebration is also a venue to discuss and address the issues that women continue to face so empowerment can be fully achieved.

History

This observation traces its roots in different movements in the 1900s, particularly in the United States of America, particularly garment workers fighting for their economic rights and fair work hours.

In 1911, the first International Women’s Day was celebrated on 19 March participated by millions of men and women. However, a tragic incident led to the changing of this date. On 25 March1911, 140 working women died in a fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist factory in New York City. This brought to light the unfair labour practices and inhumane working conditions that women workers face and led to several rallies.

In Europe, the Socialist Women’s International Conference recommended March 8 to be the

International Women’s Day not only to commemorate the women workers in the New York fire, but also to lobby issues concerning women. Since 1913, IWD has been observed annually on 8 March. In 1975, the UN formally designated this as the day of celebration of achievements of all women around the world and propel change in terms of gender equality.

Juana Laban sa Pandemya: Kaya!

This year’s campaign is different from the previous ones because it is set in the COVID-19 pandemic backdrop, which posed both challenges and opportunities for women. Hence, this year’s observance highlights women’s participation in battling the pandemic as well as discusses gender issues exacerbated by the pandemic. It is the time to delve deep into the gender issues that emerged or become more felt during the health crisis, feature women who thrived despite the circumstances, and share support systems and government programs that address women’s issues and concerns.

Juana Laban sa Pandemya: Kaya! Online Forum Series

The PCW will conduct an Online Forum Series dubbed as “Juana Laban sa Pandemya: Kaya!”

This will serve as a platform to discuss women’s experiences in dealing with the pandemic and provide practical information and ways forward to help them. The

entire series will be conducted in partnership with the UN Women Philippines Programme Office. This event is open to the public for free! There is no need to preregister or reserve a slot since this will be streamed live via PCW’s Facebook page. Participants can interact with us and the speakers through the comments feature of the Facebook livestream. An e-certificate of attendance shall be issued only for viewers who will be able to comply with all the requirements that will be announced during the livestream. Simple prizes also await those who will win in our mini quiz/energizer questions, so gear yourselves up with general information about the NWMC, the Magna Carta of Women, and Gender and Development in general! Certificates and prizes shall be sent out after the series until the month of April 2021.

Online advocacy

#MyWonderJuana. This enjoins netizens to share a minuter-story featuring an inspiring “Juana” who was able to hurdle the challenges of the pandemic and empower others to remain hopeful. The goal is to showcase the different roles that women from all walks of life play to help families, communities, and nation afloat amidst the pandemic.

PCW will monitor #MyWonderJuana and send simple prizes to netizens who post #MyWonderJuana stories that PCW

will feature/share in our official social media page (a post should be made public).

#MySuperJuan. Through this campaign, netizens can share an uplifting social media post featuring a male person who does his share in doing unpaid domestic work, which are stereotypically labelled as a woman’s job.

The goal is to spotlight on Juans who share household chores to contribute to normalizing the redistribution of unpaid care work.

PCW will monitor #MySuperJuan and send simple prizes to netizens who post #MySuperJuan stories that PCW will feature/share in our official social media page (a post should be made public for us to monitor).

#JuanaSays. Now on its 7th year, this online advocacy provides a daily dose of inspirational quotes from Filipino women.

MusikJuana Songwriting Contest

Relaunch and start of promotions for the MusikJuana Songwriting Contest – a search for a musical piece that will help popularize the 12 areas of concern of the 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BPfA). The awarding of winners will be in September 2021, in line with the BPfA anniversary.

It’s Okay Not to be Okay

By Lina Shah

It has been almost a year since the global pandemic started, and it has been a crazy time. However, it is time to talk about how to look after your mental health and well-being. Many people are currently going through one of the toughest times of their lives, and they are not alone.

The pandemic, the restrictions and lockdown have had a massive impact on the mental health of young people and adults. Some groups have been affected more than others. Research done by Mind Charity have shown that more than half of adults (60%) and over two thirds of young people (68%) have said their mental health got worse during lockdown. Furthermore, many who have never experienced problems with their mental health before, have said that their

mental health and wellbeing have declined.

Lockdown has meant that majority of the population are unable to socialise, go outside, and anxiety levels have increased. Another factor as to why there has been a huge impact on people’s mental health, especially young adults, is boredom. Many young adults are having a tough time either finding a job, being furloughed and many are living alone. Boredom is an important factor as to why young adults are struggling with their wellbeing, because the pandemic has restricted their entire life for almost a year.

Many are feeling low, anxious and stressed about the current situation, however there are many things that people can do to try and keep positive and to help their mental health.

1. Be kind to yourself. Do not compare yourself to others, whether during this pandemic or at all. You need to remember that everyone reacts to situations differently, your feelings are valid, just as much as everyone else’s.

You are important. Sometimes it is okay to not do anything at all in a day, but the key thing to note is that you survived.

2. Find slices of happiness during the day, whether it be a slice of cake, a sunrise, a sunset, dog videos or anything at all. Just hold onto that one piece of hope and positivity. Things will get better.

3. Check in on others. You may not be the one who is suffering, however check in on your friends and family. If this pandemic has taught us anything, it is about making time for each other. Make time for yourself and make time for those who you are close to. Call people, drop them a text, arrange a FaceTime call. Socialise by having a coffee over Skype or Zoom. By making time for them, you are making time for you too, to talk and to take a break.

4. Find new activities. Go for a walk. Learn to bake. Take up knitting. Do some painting. Do something that means you have time for yourself, and time to not focus on the news.

5. Develop a new routine. Try and start your day at the same time, and maybe do some yoga. Trying to make a new routine may take some time, but make sure you factor in time for yourself. Remember, your old routine has changed and so may your mental health. Be patient and be kind while making a new routine.

These coping mechanisms may not be for everyone, and the list is endless. These are just some ideas, which I hope can help anyone who may need them.

Furthermore, please reach out to people if you need help. Do not feel ashamed if you need help. There is support available for anyone who needs it, and please do not invalidate your feelings. How you feel is just as important as everyone else. The pandemic is affecting everyone, but the most important thing is to look after yourself. Please follow this link if you or anyone you know need help or just need someone to talk to:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ stress-anxiety-depression/mentalhealth-helplines/

Do not feel ashamed if you need help. There is support available for anyone who needs it, and please do not invalidate your feelings.

According to the Royal College of Nursing,

their members deserve a 12.5 percent pay increase. We support the plea of the Royal College of Nursing. We at MEDNEG by DV support the nurses and doctors. We support a fair NHS. A fair NHS means a safe NHS.

The Many Roles of

Rachel Grant

By MARIA ELLIS

Her full name is Rachel Louise Grant de Longueuil, quite a mouthful that makes for a challenging tongue twister exercise. The abbreviated three-syllable ‘Rachel Grant’ is catchy and snappy, much like a movie star’s name, which Rachel happens to be.

Rachel Grant is a British-Filipino Hollywood actress who is best known for her role in the James Bond movie, ‘Die Another Day’ starring Pierce Brosnan. (More about that later). Her mother is Isabel Padua who is of Spanish descent with family roots in La Union, and her father is Michael Charles Grant, the 12th Baron de Longueuil. They met at a party at the Philippine embassy in London in the 1970s.

Rachel’s British pedigree connects her to Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. She says, “The connection is fascinating! My paternal great grandmother, Ernestine Bowes-lyon, is first cousin to the Queen’s mother and spent many days as a child in Glamis Castle in Scotland with the Queen Mum. Great granny Ernestine also married a baron and that’s how we carry the title “de Longueuil” at the end of our name. This unique title originates from the 17th century empire-building family, which was granted by King Louis XIV of France to Charles Le Moyne de Longueuil for his travels and explorations throughout North America. The first Baron de Longueuil and his sons secured large wilderness areas for France, which were acquired by the United States in the Louisiana Purchase.”

The half-Pinay’s ancestry on her mother’s side is just as illustrious. She shares her forebears’ achievements, as she says, “My Philippine grandfather, Atty. Ceferino Padua, went to Harvard University and became a great lawyer who fought for people’s rights. His father, Regino Padua, was the first Filipino graduate of Johns Hopkins University in the USA and former Health Minister in the Philippines, as well as co-founder of the World Health Organisation.”

Creative talent runs in the Grant family, as Rachel tells us, “I’m in the middle of two sisters, Angela and Rebecca, and the only sibling born in the Philippines. My sister Angela is a Royal Academy of Dance trained ballet teacher in London with her own school, and sister Rebecca is an actress, dancer, singer and artist.”

When asked if acting was a childhood dream, Rachel did not just talk about herself but mentioned her sisters as well, as she replied, “Acting and being on stage was a big dream and one which we lived almost every day. We were always performing as children and traveling around the UK doing various acts, theatre performances, and competitions. We studied acting and dance extensively as children, and later I moved to

London and did full time studies in performing arts.”

Filipino singing talents do their country proud by excelling in competitions and performances world-wide, and this has created the stereotype that all Filipinos are good singers. So, can Rachel sing? She replies, “I do sing, yes. In fact, my voice is more of an operatic one. My maternal great grandmother was an opera singer and teacher in the Philippines. So, perhaps I get it from her.”

Rachel Grant’s acting career includes the theatre, television and films. On TV, she has played the characters Tanya in Emmerdale, Professor Myang Li in Brainiac: Science Abuse, Marie Webster in Casualty, Sandra Foy in Murder in Suburbia, and many more. Her film credits include The Purifiers, Brotherhood of Blood, Until Death, The Tournament, The African Game, Red Princess Blues and Snatchers. Her most famous role is that of James Bond’s would-be assassin, Peaceful Fountains of Desire (a moniker as lengthy as her birth name) in the James Bond film, Die Another Day.

Getting the role was a big triumph for Rachel, as she recalls, “I was cast very quickly for the role of Peaceful Fountains of Desire in Die Another Day - quite unusual for a production of this level. It was for a scene they had rewritten and needed to recast quickly. I knew it would be tough to get the role since I was not Chinese, so giving it my best shot, I

Being a Bond girl may be Rachel’s most prominent film role, but outside of Hollywood, she plays several other roles. She is also a TV host, a travel writer, a packing expert, a wife, a mother and an avid supporter of poor communities in the Philippines.

PHOTO BY ROMEL DULAy

Rachel in a typhoon project in Bani, Pangasinan.

Rachel and husband Stephen.

wore a Chinese dress to the audition and offered to do a martial arts demonstration using nunchakus. My attempt to stand out worked for me. I auditioned on Thursday, got the call for the role on Saturday and began work on Monday. I was on set on the 007 stage at Pinewood studios for 3 days with Pierce Brosnan.”

What did Rachel think of Irish actor Pierce Brosnan? “Pierce was very charming, chatty and guessed correctly that my Asian looks were from the Philippines - adding that Filipinos are lovely people. He also mentioned how he had seen my audition tape and was rather impressed by my nunchaku demo.”

Rachel has more recollections of her James Bond experience. “One thing I recall about the writing of the original script was that James Bond in my scene had just come out of the shower, was topless and only had a towel around his waist. I remember thinking, oh my! When it came to filming, he was dressed in crisp white shirt and trousers. I liked that.” She also remembers one glamorous perk of being a Bond girl. “I attended a spectacular premiere with my mother at the Royal Albert Hall which was attended by the Queen and had the longest red carpet I have ever seen.”

Being a Bond girl may be Rachel’s most prominent film role, but outside of Hollywood, she plays several other roles. She is also a TV host, a travel writer, a packing expert, a wife, a mother and an avid supporter of poor communities in the Philippines.

Rachel says that being associated with the James Bond fame has helped with her charitable work. “The best thing to have come from being part of such a well-known film

franchise is my involvement with charitable endeavours. Being a Bond girl has given me the leverage to help disadvantaged communities. For example, I was able to raise funds for a community in Bani, Pangasinan, to build a much-needed evacuation centre for typhoon victims and it also doubles up as a school and multipurpose centre.”

When queried on what inspires her to engage in charitable work in the Philippines, Rachel replied, “The humble warmth and welcome of the Filipino inspires me to do good and has motivated me. I’ve come across it time and time again when I’ve travelled around the Philippines and in rural parts where life is simple. It’s very easy to fall in love with such communities and I’ve found myself returning to the same places. I like that a small act can go a very long way.”

It is not only Rachel who supports the less fortunate among our fellow Filipinos. Her family is also actively involved in the charity work. “My mother has been a great source of inspiration and is very encouraging. She’s naturally giving of her time for good causes and was instrumental in setting up our family’s Padua Charitable Fund - a British registered charity that raises funds for projects in the Philippines (www. paduacharity.com). All of us involved with the charity volunteer our time and 100% of all donations go directly to worthy projects.”

One other role that Rachel excels in is being the go-to girl in the art of packing a suitcase. If you search for Rachel Grant on YouTube, you will find her how-to videos. How did she become such an expert? She says, “My mother might have been the one to inspire me. As a child I would watch my mother pack

balikbayan boxes and suitcases for the Philippines. I recall she would insert something into every gap she could find. Her shoes would be filled with all sorts of things and every tiny corner of her suitcase would be stuffed with a chocolate or a sock ball. Back then they weren’t so strict on luggage weight and I know we had the heaviest suitcases. I believe watching those techniques inspired me on my travels. Although, I do know I pack much better than my mother now!”

Mrs. Isabel Grant’s influence on her daughter goes beyond packing. Rachel looks back with fondness on being brought up by a Filipino mother. “Growing up in Nottingham, we had Filipino food at home and very British dinners at school for lunch. As such, mealtimes were varied and always exciting. Some dishes my mother prepared regularly were lumpia, sinigang, pancit, adobo, palabok, and of course everything was always served with rice. I am particularly fond of rice with bagoong or patis. However, my favourite Filipino food is from Bicol. Our “Nanny” from Bicol who lived with us (and who now lives with my sister Rebecca and her children) would prepare her local dishes and I became very fond of spicy food with coconut. To this day, laing is my favorite Filipino vegetable dish and I now make it myself.” It must be said that Rachel’s husband Stephen Hersh, who owns an innovative luggage company called Biaggi, is a laing fan as well.

It was not just her mother’s culinary expertise that has had a lasting effect on Rachel as she also reminisces on the Filipino values that her mother has instilled in her and her siblings. “She brought us up with many Filipino ways and customs. Of course,

we went to church every Sunday, we were taught forgiveness (I feel not just a Catholic thing but one that lies in Filipino traits), we were taught to welcome people who came to the home and to always offer food (lol)to be giving in general, respectful to others and elders, loving and caring - and after any argument to fix it quickly and to show only love.”

Perhaps Rachel’s most cherished role is that of being mother to her three-month-old daughter Maya who the proud mum says loves to sing, which makes her little girl “definitely Filipino.”

Having an extensive experience in acting, what advice does Rachel have for aspiring Pinoy actors? “The best advice I can give is to always keep active with enhancing your craft. Don’t ever wait for the phone to ring or for someone to find you. Stay active and be creative always and you find your own path.”

Rachel Grant can best be summed up as an authentic human being devoid of Hollywood-esque pretensions. Two of her guiding principles in life are compassion and generosity, and her words are as genuine as her deeds, as she says, “Giving is the greatest thing we can do. Generosity is a true way to happiness and contentment. Having some celebrity status is a great platform to do good - a gift that should be used as much as possible to benefit others and raise awareness where needed. We all have the ability to help those less fortunate than ourselves to make a difference in the world. The greatness of a person is not what we can do, but what others can do because of them.”

PHOTO BY ROMEL DULAy

PHOTO BY ROMEL DULAy

PHOTO BY John Dowling

Rachel and Maya Rachel as The Bond Girl.

Rachel in her community in Pangasinan.

Covid-19 Response – Spring 2021 (Summary)

1. Roadmap out of lockdown

From 8 March, people in England will see restrictions start to lift and the government’s four-step roadmap offer a route back to a more normal life.

The success of the vaccination programme is one factor - so far over 17 million people have had their jabs - but by no means the whole story. The public have also risen to the challenge of suppressing COVID-19: by obeying the law; staying at home; getting tested when needed; isolating when required, and following the ‘hands, face, space’ and ‘letting fresh air in’ guidance.

Taken together, this means that even though absolute case numbers remain relatively high, we will be able to begin relaxing the current strict lockdown. While we must all remain vigilant - in particular against the threat from new COVID-19 variants - and continue to protect the NHS, a safe exit from lockdown can begin. It will take place in four steps; and at each step, we plan to lift restrictions across the whole of England at the same time.

In implementing this plan, we will be guided by data, not dates, so that we do not risk a surge in infections that would put unsustainable pressure on the NHS. For that reason, all the dates in the roadmap are indicative and subject to change. There will be a minimum of five weeks between each step: four weeks for the scientific data to reflect

the changes in restrictions and to be analysed; followed by one week’s advance notice of the restrictions that will be eased.

Only when the government is sure that it is safe to move from one step to the next will the final decision be made. The decision will be based on four tests: the vaccine deployment programme continues successfully; evidence shows vaccines are sufficiently effective in reducing hospitalisations and deaths in those vaccinated; infection rates do not risk a surge in hospitalisations which would put unsustainable pressure on the NHS; and our assessment of the risks is not fundamentally changed by new Variants of Concern.

The government will continue to protect the public by ensuring local outbreaks are managed quickly and effectively and that we combat new dangerous variants, both within the UK and at the border. The government will also continue to support families and businesses throughout the steps set out in the roadmap - details of which will be set out by the Chancellor in the Budget on 3 March.

2. Four steps

In Step 1, our priority is to ensure that all children and students return safely to face-to-face education in schools and colleges from 8 March. Childcare and children’s supervised activities can also resume where necessary to enable parents to work or engage in

similar activities.

We are introducing twice-weekly rapid testing for secondary and college pupils - in addition to regular testing for all teachers - to reduce the chance of the virus spreading in schools. Higher Education students at English universities on practical courses can also return from 8 March.

People will be allowed to leave home for recreation and exercise outdoors with their household or support bubble, if they are eligible for one, or with one person from outside their household. Care home residents will also be allowed one regular visitor.

The evidence shows that it is safer for people to meet outdoors rather than indoors. And this is why from 29 March, when most schools start to break up for the Easter holidays, outdoor gatherings (including in private gardens) of either 6 people (the Rule of 6) or 2 households will also be allowed, making it easier for friends and families to meet outside.

Outdoor sports facilities such as tennis and basketball courts, and open-air swimming pools, will also be allowed to reopen, and people will be able to take part in formally organised outdoor sports.

The ‘stay at home’ rule will end on 29 March, but many restrictions will remain in place. People should continue to work from home where they can and minimise the number

of journeys they make where possible, avoiding travel at the busiest times and routes.

Travel abroad will continue to be prohibited, other than for a small number of permitted reasons. Holidays abroad will not be allowed, given it will remain important to manage the risk of imported variants and protect the vaccination programme. The government has launched a new taskforce to review global travel which will report on 12 April.

Step 2, which will be no earlier than 12 April, will see the opening of non-essential retail; personal care premises such as hairdressers and nail salons; and public buildings, including libraries and community centres. Indoor leisure facilities such as gyms will also reopen (but only for use by people on their own or in household groups); as will most outdoor attractions and settings including outdoor hospitality venues, zoos, theme parks, and drive-in cinemas. Self-contained accommodation such as campsites and holiday lets, where indoor facilities are not shared with other households, can also reopen.

Hospitality venues will be allowed to serve people outdoors at Step 2 and there will be no need for customers to order a substantial meal with alcoholic drinks and no curfew, although customers must order, eat and drink while seated (‘table service’). Wider social contact

rules will apply in all these settings to prevent indoor mixing between different households.

While funerals can continue with up to 30 mourners, the number of people able to attend weddings, receptions and commemorative events such as wakes will rise to 15.

As part of Step 3, no earlier than 17 May, the government will look to continue easing limits on seeing friends and family wherever possible, allowing people to decide on the appropriate level of risk for their circumstances.

This means that most legal restrictions on meeting others outdoors will be lifted - although gatherings of over 30 people will remain illegal. Indoors, the Rule of 6 or 2 households will apply - we will keep under review whether it is safe to increase this.

As soon as possible and by no later than Step 3, we will also update the advice on social distancing between friends and family, including hugging. But until this point, people should continue to keep their distance from anyone not in their household or support bubble.

Most businesses in all but the highest risk sectors will be able to reopen. In all sectors, COVID-Secure guidance will remain in place and businesses may not cater for groups bigger than the legal limits. Indoor hospitality will reopen - and as in Step 2, venues will not have to serve

a substantial meal with alcoholic drinks; nor will there be a curfew. Customers will, however, have to order, eat and drink while seated.

Other indoor locations to open up in Step 3 include indoor entertainment venues such as cinemas and children’s play areas; the rest of the accommodation sector, including hotels, hostels and B&Bs; and indoor adult group sports and exercise classes.

The government will also allow some larger performances and sporting events in indoor venues with a capacity of 1,000 people or half-full (whichever is a lower number), and in outdoor venues with a capacity of 4,000 people or half-full (whichever is a lower number). In the largest outdoor seated venues, where crowds can be spread out, up to 10,000 people will be able to attend (or a quarter-full, whichever is lower).

Up to 30 people will be able to attend weddings, receptions and wakes, as well as funerals. This limit will also apply to other types of significant life events including bar mitzvahs and christenings.

Finally, before Step 4 begins, the government will complete a review of social distancing and other longterm measures that have been put in place to cut transmission. This will inform decisions on the timing and circumstances under which the rules on 1 metre plus, the wearing of face coverings and other

measures may be lifted. This will also inform guidance on working from home – which should continue wherever possible until this review is complete.

By Step 4 which will take place no earlier than 21 June, the government hopes to be in a position to remove all legal limits on social contact.

We hope to reopen remaining premises, including nightclubs, and ease the restrictions on large events and performances that apply in Step 3. This will be subject to the results of a scientific Events Research Programme to test the outcome of certain pilot events through the spring and summer, where we will trial the use of testing and other techniques to cut the risk of infection. The same Events Research Programme will guide decisions on whether all limits can be removed on weddings and other life events.

As we move through each of these phases in the roadmap, we must all remember that COVID-19 remains a part of our lives. We are going to have to keep living our lives differently to keep ourselves and others safe. We must carry on with ‘hands, face, space’. Comply with the COVID-Secure measures that remain in place. Meet outdoors when we can and keep letting fresh air in. Get tested when needed. Get vaccinated when offered. If we all continue to play our part, we will be that bit closer to a future that is more familiar.

As we move through each of these phases in the roadmap, we must all remember that COVID-19 remains a part of our lives. We are going to have to keep living our lives differently to keep ourselves and others safe.

Filipino Games We Love and Miss Playing

By Camile L. Eusebio

It is already summertime in the Philippines. The sun is out and shines brightly in a tropical country like ours. Around March, school ends, and kids get two months of summer holidays when they are free to play on the streets and hang out with their friends.

But times have changed. Most Pinoy parents back home are worried about their kids’ security, they rarely let them go past their gates unchaperoned. Kids spend more time on their gadgets than they do playing outdoors. But do you still remember how it felt like to be a kid on the streets on a hot summer’s day, buying chichirya (junk food) from the sari-sari store, playing with your friends until sunset? Sounds like an Eraserheads (or APO Hiking Society if that is more your era) song, right? Oh, those were the days.

So, while we are braving the chilly weather here in the southern hemisphere, let us take a quick trip down memory lane and reminisce about some Pinoy street games we used to play:

Patintero

Probably the most popular street game for kids living in private subdivisions, patintero is our variation of tag, but played with two opposing teams. The team who’s “It” or taya will attempt to tag the members of the other team while staying in their grid (usually like

a rectangle or 2 parallel lines). The objective of the game is for the running team to make it past the grids and back to their starting point without being tagged. If one of their teammates is tagged, they lose and the game restarts with them as the It.

Tumbang Preso

Also known as Tumba Lata, this game requires an empty tin can placed in a small circle. The one who is taya will guard the can while the other players use a slipper to knock down the can while a couple of metres away from it. The goal is to hit the can, put it back to its original place and run back to their starting point without being tagged by the taya.

Luksong-baka and Luksong tinik

These games have the same concept but differ in execution. In Luksong Baka, the players leap over a person crouched down on the ground like a cow. In Luksong Tinik, they leap over the hands and feet of two players sitting on the floor. Their fingers and toes serve as thorns (or tinik in Tagalog) that the other players need to jump over.

The game advances to the next level as the hurdle goes higher and higher - in Luksong Baka, the It transitions on all fours, then kneeling until finally he is standing. In Luksong Tinik, the sitting players link their hands and feet together to make the obstacle higher. If a player touches any body part of the hurdle as they jump, they will become the It.

Chinese garter

Your schoolgirl days will not be

complete if you have not experienced playing jackstones inside the classroom and Chinese Garter in the hallways or on the streets. The game has a similar concept to Luksong Baka and Luksong Tinik, but the players use a garter (about one to two meters long) as the hurdle. The players have to jump over the garter and back as the hurdle gets higher and higher in every round.

Games we play during parties and fiestas

If you lived in the province or traveled back to your parents’ hometown during the summer holidays, you have probably been to fiestas and joined parlour games. While “Agawang-biik” or capture the pig and hotdog-eating contests are crowd favourites in country fairs, our games lean a bit more on the dangerous side. Here are some traditional Pinoy games you might have witnessed or participated in:

Palo sebo

A test of strength and endurance, two players (usually young men in provinces) race to climb the top of long bamboo poles to retrieve a flag. Whoever gets the flag first is the winner. It is not as easy as it sounds as the bamboo sticks have been greased or oiled before the game to make it more challenging.

Kadang-kadang

This game originated in the Visayas as the name translates to “simple play” in Cebuano. But there is nothing simple about it, really. Imagine balancing and walking on stilts, but this time it is on 10-foot bamboo poles. The game is a

relay race of two teams. The first player of each team walks to the finish line and back then tags his teammate. The first team to have all players back to the starting point is the winner.

Pukpok-palayok

If you understand Tagalog, this game is quite self-explanatory. It is similar to striking a pinata while blindfolded, but instead of a paper mache figure, the contestants would try to hit a palayok or a clay pot filled with goodies like candies, small toys, and coins. The person who hits the palayok gets an extra prize of course.

Pabitin

If there is a world record for the most popular game played in Pinoy children’s birthday parties, this would probably make it to the list. Pabitin is a sure party hit because everyone who participates gets to take home a prize. A makeshift wooden lattice with an assortment of treats (snacks, little toys) connected to it using a string hangs from a tall ceiling. When the game starts, the lattice is lowered, and the kids jump and grab as many prizes as they can until there is nothing left.

Did you love playing these games when you were a kid? How about you take a break from your gadgets and social media, head outside and teach some of these games to your children when the weather is warm? Not only will you encourage them to go outside and get moving, but you will also help them appreciate the Filipino culture in a light and playful way.

MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS & FRIDAYS, 1:00 PM LONDON BST

LEGAL ADVICE CORNER

WITH DANNA QUINTO

TUESDAYS, 8:00 PM

FIND US ON

FRIDAYS, 7:30 PM LONDON BST

IMMIGRATION CORNER

with LIRA SIMON-CABATBAT

THURSDAYS, 8:00 PM

creatives corner

1. When did you arrive in the UK and what was your reason for coming here?

I arrived in the UK in the autumn of 2001 from The Netherlands where I lived for nearly 5 years. I came to do the first UK tour of Miss Saigon.

2. What did you do in the Philippines before migrating to the UK?

I was a child actor back home and I was with Repertory Philippines (REP).

3. Have you always dreamed of being an actor even as a child?

Yes. I was with every single school production with the Ateneo Children’s’ Theater throughout my primary years.

4. Do you have any special training in the performing arts?

No, I didn’t as there were no proper drama schools back then. I took part in acting workshops and worked with REP and I became one of their regular performers so that was my training. I also trained in dance with Douglas Nierras Powerdance Philippines, and the Philippine Ballet Theater and singing at The Royal Conservatoire of The Hague.

5. How long have you been a performing artist?

Almost all my life. I probably did my very first performance at the age of 4 or 5.

My very first role was in my preschool’s Nativity play where I played one of the shepherds. I was in every single school play and I was involved

ANGELO PARAGOSO UK stage and film actor

in a lot of shows with REP. At the age of 17, I left Manila to join the original Dutch production of Miss Saigon. I then did Fame, the musical and I also danced with the Holland Show Ballet before moving to the UK to join the original UK tour of Miss Saigon.

Selected credits:

STAGE – Paper Dolls (Tricycle Theatre), The King & I (Royal Albert Hall), Pearls of the East (Pinoy Theatre), Doctor Atomic (English National Opera), The Reporter (National Theatre)

FILM, RADIO & TV - Haunted (Netflix), Writing the Century: Tiger Wings, The Complete Smiley Radio Dramas (BBC Radio 4 Drama), As You Know Me (Earls Court Film Festival), Paddington 2 (Marmalade Films Ltd.)

6. You’ve performed in a play with music called ‘Paper Dolls’. Please tell us about that.

I LOVE THAT PLAY! Definitely in my top 5! It was one of the very few times I’ve actually played a Filipino to date. I would love to do it again! It’s a show that’s very close to my heart. I have such fond memories of the entire experience and I will cherish it for all eternity!

7. We know that the lockdown has had a devastating impact on the performing arts. How has it affected you? How do you see the future for your craft?

Everyone has been affected, one way or the other. We’re not all on the same boat, we’re all in the same storm. Some are in ships, some

in yachts, boats, rafts, some are hanging on to other rafts, some don’t have anything to hang onto, etc. I am doing what I can with what I have to keep well and healthy. I have everything a person needs to survive so I am extremely grateful.

I was due to appear in Hello, Dolly! at the Adelphi Theatre but it has now been rescheduled for 2022. That would’ve been my West End debut after 20 years of performing in the UK! I see my craft evolving and adapting slowly but surely. It’s taking on another shape and form. We’ve all had to adapt.

We are doing more self-tapes than before, getting the hang of using new technology, finding other streams of income and learning new skills on top of looking out for one’s mental health and all the things we’ve had to do to survive.

8. Can one be a successful actor and still need a day job?

Anything is possible. Everyone will have a different experience so I am in no position to say that a successful actor would still need to have a day job. Success is extremely subjective. I did have a job. I say I did, because I have not worked that job since March of last year. I’d like to think that I am successful, but some might argue that I’m not, according to societal standards and expectations. I believe that what other people think of me, is none of my business. What’s important is what I think about myself.

9. Is there any dark side to the performing arts, e.g., betrayals,

discrimination, etc.?

Like in any other industry or sector, those things happen. It’s not all glitz and glamour. People only see the commercial side, the public face of the performing arts. It’s unfortunate that these things exist but knowing how to not get involved is another skill a performer has to learn. It’s challenging enough to be an artist as it is, add on to that the things happening within the industry and we also have to act like politicians.

10. What is your dream role?

I honestly don’t know. I have played roles I have never dreamed of before so sky’s the limit!

11. Any advice for aspiring actors?

• Listen to intuition so you do the right thing for you.

• Take responsibility for your actions.

• Know your worth.

• Know when to say no.

• Be grateful for the opportunities you receive.

• When you attend an audition, show them how wonderful you are to work with.

• Our craft involves having genuine relationships with people. You don’t have to be best friends with everyone, just be yourself and the right people will be drawn to you at the right time.

• Always say thank you.

face of the month

Marichelle Crick

Age: 27

Based in the UK: London

EDUCATION: BA in Television Production

Hobbies: Photography & illustration

Currently doing: Photography Coordinator & Freelance

Illustrator

AMBITION: To travel the world

Mother: nydia crick

Father: Andrew crick

happy childhood

WHY A IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN WE THINK

By Robert G. Labayen

Experiences literally change the shape of our brain. Hanson also mentioned a research by Eleanor Maguire who discovered that London taxi drivers have developed a large lump in the hippocampus. That is the part of the brain responsible for memory and visual and spatial orientation.

Psychologist Rick Hanson revealed in the book Hardwiring Happiness the role of the amygdala in a person’s emotional inclination. The amygdala is a part of the brain that performs a primary role in the processing of emotions, memories and decisions.

Hanson cited a study by Wil Cunningham in which he found that parents unable to provide a warm and loving environment can make their children develop a “sad amygdala.” On the other hand, love and positive reinforcement can grow a “happy amygdala” in children. These children become optimistic and focused on opportunities instead of frustrations.

Fortunately, we can still cheer the sad amygdalas up even in adult life. Constant exposure to happiness and genuine love will help reverse the condition.

When we spend happy moments with children, playing games or having fun with colours, shapes, sounds, games, etc., we may in effect, alter the physical makeup and intellectual capabilities of their brain.

Any parent knows that sometimes a child’s curiosity and enthusiasm are a test to our patience. They touch dirty things. They examine strangers in church. They scream for toys in a toy shop. Or they want to stay awake when we are exhausted. Annoyed, we sometimes snap at them, threaten them, or punish them. In the old times, parents would actually hit them with a stick!

Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish are internationally recognized experts on communication between adults and children. They wrote a book entitled How to Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Would Talk.

The authors have counselled that when

we punish a child, we encourage them to feel bitterness toward us. This would make them less likely to listen to us in the future.

What we can do is acknowledge their feelings. If we don’t know exactly what they want, let’s ask. Then we can explain why we must do what we have to do. The goal is to come to a mutual agreement.

When the child is old enough, Faber and Mazlish advised that we must encourage a child’s autonomy. For example, we can let them figure out how they will divide their time between play and homework.

They said that every child deserves a chance to discover answers for themselves. They may make wrong decisions and it will stress us out. But that is how they grow to be better persons. So, we must have tolerance and courage.

The school break is a good time to think about how we deal with our children. Then again, let’s just bond with them, and make memories that make happy amygdalas!

STAY ALERT

CONTROL THE VIRUS AND SAVE LIVES

Ilearned only recently about a scientific explanation why childhood can determine if a person will be happy or sad in later life.

They said that every child deserves a chance to discover answers for themselves. They may make wrong decisions and it will stress us out. But that is how they grow to be better persons.

The Filbrits Community in DorsetA Short History

IIt all started very informally.

Between 2007 and 2011 groups of Filipinos in the Bournemouth area would often meet up for special occasions, such as birthdays and festive celebrations, or just to have a casual get-together.

Filipinos are a very fun-loving people, who like nothing better than to get together for a chat, to eat and drink, sing and dance, and share their traditional home-cooked dishes. Although the groups were meeting on a regular basis, they soon became aware that there was no official organisation in Dorset to coordinate their activities and reach out to the wider Filipino community.

Talks to create a more formal group were carried out in 2011. A logo featuring a sarimanok, a Maranao symbol of good fortune, was designed by Christopher Del Rosario and Henry Manalili. On 4 June 2011, the Philippines Independence Day, Joey Tagle was appointed to become the first president.

The inauguration ceremony took place at St Edmund Campion Church in Bournemouth. It was a celebration of unity and togetherness, reflecting the Community's motto: Keeping tradition and enriching culture. Lechon, the traditional celebratory dish, was served along with many other Filipino home-cooked delicacies. In the following months, by-laws were formulated to define the official structure and responsibilities of the group.

By Roberto Sibayan

Since those early days, the organisation has grown steadily in numbers, bringing in members from across Dorset. It has become increasingly active, serving as a focal point for the Filipino community to celebrate special occasions together. It has also provided help and comfort for victims of misfortune and disasters. Bayanihan, this voluntary aid system, is a very well-known concept to Filipinos. Reflecting the adage 'Many hands make light work', it is a way for the community to come together in support of those in difficulty.

In 2015, on the completion of Joey Tagle's 3-year term, Carmelo San Juan became the new president. His inauguration ceremony was attended by representatives of the Philippine Embassy, paving the way for the creation of an

Bayanihan, this voluntary aid system, is a very well-known concept to Filipinos. Reflecting the adage ‘Many hands make light work’, it is a way for the community to come together in support of those in difficulty.

fil-com spotlight

outreach programme to help process important legal matters, such as dual citizenship. The highlight of Carmelo’s presidency came at the Dorset Ethnic Minority Awards in September 2008, where he won the Leadership Award, while the Filbrits Community received the trophy for the Best Community Group in Dorset.

Peter Bacalso was elected to become the organisation's third president in 2018. Unfortunately, due to health issues, he had to step down after only one year. Vice president Myrna Perez took over the running of the organisation. She was officially inaugurated as the fourth president in October 2019. Her presidency has seen the return of the Barrio Fiesta to King's Park, Bournemouth, which in August 2019 was attended by large numbers of guests,

including the town's mayor. Sadly, the fiesta for 2020 had to be cancelled due to Covid-19, but the pandemic has not prevented the Filbrits organisation from continuing its vital work in the community, including the distribution of food to members afflicted by the disease.

With the UK government’s current roadmap to easing of the lockdown, we look forward to more fun and worthwhile activities that make FilBrits Community Dorset the strong organisation that it is, as we get ready to celebrate our 10th year anniversary in June 2021.

To everyone who has supported and keep supporting what we do, we express our utmost gratitude.

Maraming salamat po.

Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! God Save the Queen.

FRIGGA FORECAST

from

RAT

With illness looming in your chart this month, rest is the right prescription. More responsibilities may be coming your way at work. Be confident to ask help from others. Keep things friendly and diplomatic. The upside is that no matter if you are single or married, harmony reigns this month.

OX

Keep an eye on your health as a minor ailment may present some risks. Don’t allow yourself to be sidetracked by this. The single Ox may finally catch the eye of someone unexpected. When planning to meet, choose auspicious dates from your Feng Shui Almanac.

TIGER

A minor sickness may make your work life more challenging. Give priority to your health to minimize any difficulties. There is some good news waiting for you in a different department. Romancewise, you are in for some blissful moments. Someone unexpected may express a romantic interest in you.

RABBIT

You may feel less energetic to even handle issues that pertain to your everyday life. You need to see the importance of personal time for yourself and create it, as well as making others respect your private time.

DRAGON

There should be an opportunity for you to socialize. To avoid wearing yourself out, try to recharge and surround yourself with positivity and sunny energy. At the end of the day, you will be amazed at how you dealt with it all.

SNAKE

You may feel constantly tired. If you feel like taking a break, don’t postpone it. The stress related to your recent tasks has accumulated, and you may feel like you’re going to explode any minute. Take care of yourself; you cannot offer to others what you do not have.

HORSE

This period may provide successes and achievements, particularly at your workplace. While you are enjoying all that this month has to offer, make sure you give love to your friends and family. If still loveless until now, know that there are opportunities ahead.

SHEEP

Your victory star brings alongside with it loads of potential successes. The best strategy for this month is boldness. This month will also be a good one for romance. Wonderful moments are bound to come your way. Enjoy them while they last.

MONKEY

Any bad energy plaguing you from last month should be gone. Your Victory Star is here, bringing with it many potential successes. Be ready for any life-changing opportunities coming your way. Also a good month for romance.

ROOSTER

You will have a chance to prove what you are capable of, even if you still doubt your readiness for these coming opportunities. Positive wealth luck returns this month, perhaps more so than you have previously experienced. Work in silence and let your success make the noise.

DOG

There could be stressful situations in your relationship; keep cool and take it easy. The less you become argumentative and opinionated with issues, the better it is for your relationship. You may be faced with a lot of challenges at work this month, but stay committed to keep improving yourself.

BOAR

Everything is not what it seems this month, so be careful whom you trust. You need to be more dedicated to improving your career. If you are in a relationship, you and your partner may be tested, so keep calm and take it easy. Do not worry too much because better days are coming.

PHILIPPINE FENG SHUI QUEEN