filipino journal alberta edition june 2014

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Volume 7, Number 6 • June 2014 FREE COPY Publications Mail Agreement 40032612 Page 16 ► Thank you, Cardinal Luis Antonio G. Tagle, Archbishop of Manila Brother Gem Mella Ordains as Deacon Immigration Minister Chris Alexander (left) and Employment Minister Jason Kenny (right) announce the major changes in the implementation of the new Temporary Foreign Workers Program. Page 3 ► Page 8 ► Temporary Foreign Worker Program reinstated; hospitality businessmen cry foul

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Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

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Page 1: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

Volume 7, Number 6 • June 2014 FREE COPYPublications Mail Agreement 40032612

Page 16 ►

Thank you, Cardinal

Luis Antonio G. Tagle,

Archbishopof Manila

Brother Gem Mella Ordains as Deacon

Immigration Minister Chris Alexander (left) and Employment Minister Jason Kenny (right) announce the major changes in the implementation of the new Temporary Foreign Workers Program.

Page 3 ►

Page 8 ►

Temporary Foreign Worker Program reinstated; hospitality businessmen cry foul

Page 2: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

FilipinoJournal.comAll photos & articles available online!

June 20142 The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

CHESTER CARLO TONY

C R O S S T O W N A U T O C E N T R E | 1 5 5 2 0 - 1 2 3 A V E • E D M O N T O N , A B

W W W .T H E F I L I P I N O C O N N E C T I O N . C A

2 0 1 2 # 1 C H R Y S L E R , D O D G E , R A M , J E E P A N D F L A T D E A L E R I N C A N A D A

1 - 8 0 0 - 7 3 7 - 9 9 2 3

WE SELL CARS We’ve got you covered

Z E R O D O W N P A Y M E N T

N E W & U S E DN E W & U S E DALL MAKES ALL MODELS

Page 3: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

June 2014 3

FilipinoJournal.comLet's get social

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

Brother Gem Mella Ordains as DeaconAfter four years of diaconal

formation, Brother Gem Mella of Edmonton

finally got the Order of Diaconate. The ordination was held at Joseph Basilica on Saturday, May 31, 2014. Archbishop Richard Smith was the principal celebrant of the ordination of three deacons that were ordained. In attendance was the first Filipino Deacon of Edmonton, Antonio "Tony" Obleada. The community of Catholic faith filled the Basilica to full capacity.

Photos by Dario Juanillo

With Deacon Gem Mella with Deacon Tony Obleada.

Deacon Gem with his wife Dada and family circle.

Deacon Gem assisting at the mass.

With Archbishop Richard Smith.

Page 4: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

FilipinoJournal.comAll photos & articles available online!

June 20144 The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

Youngest Grandmaster Champion of Chess Wesley So Visits Edmontonby Jun Angeles

For the chess aficionados, the visit of Wesley So, the world youngest Grandmaster 14 year old Wesley

So of the Philippines is something not to be missed. By invitation of The Edmonton Chess Club, Wesley So visited Edmonton. Through the courtesy and effort of Peter Luna and the Palabok House, a dinner and a mini tournament were arranged briefly last Wednesday June 18, 2014. So who grew up in Bacoor, Cavite is a Filipino chess prodigy. He holds the title as the eight youngest player to attain the Grandmaster (GM) in history achieving the title at the age of 14. He is also the Philippines' youngest ever International Master and youngest GM and the youngest National Champion. The tournament held at Palabok House restaurant mated his opponents chess players like a breeze. Wesley with Pete Luna Jun Angeles & Lydia Jimenez of Palabok House.

Arnel Frialde & Wesley So

Young players and fans Algie Jovellanes & Daniel Salvador.

Group pictures of chess players and fans.

Page 5: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

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June 2014 5The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

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Mustard Seed Volunteer Event – AUAA Calgary Chapterby Wally Cousart

Many people suggest that doing volunteer work is a great way to open your

heart to new experiences such as contributing in helping people in need, giving back something to your community and even developing our children’s values of serving, sharing and loving.

On August 31, 2014, Adamson University Alumni Association (AUAA) had its first volunteer activity together with their families at the Mustard Seed Volunteer- Clothing Donation Sorter.

Members of the volunteer group were Wally Cousart, Adel Amar, Flora Malig, Gloria Nicolas, Ellen & Eileen Bascon, Mon & Fe Ignacio, Reynald, Amalia, Dlanyer & Jenica Aliana Ocampo, Herman, Lani, Serena & Sherice Esperanza, Ramel, Minnie & Charles Mabutas.

Dlanyer, Jenica, Charles, Serena and Sherice are children 18 years old and under had this to tell about how they feel about their experiences.

Dlanyer (18) “I feel like a person behind the scene just making a small difference in the world.” Jenica (17) “I feel good making a difference in someone else’s life.” Charles (13) “I feel good about giving back to the community. I want to support

Mustard Seed because we help a lot of people.” Serena (10) “It’s fun and feels good to help somebody.” And lastly, Sherice being the youngest at the age of 6 says “I like working here because sorting is fun.”

Everyone had a great time and felt so blessed for the small contribution that they have done for other people, their community, themselves and their families.

This is just the beginning and the Association would like to encourage other members and their families join the next volunteer activity in the fall.Other activities scheduled by

AUAA Calgary Chapter for this year are:

2nd Annual Golf Tournament – July 12, 2014, Saturday, Fox Hollow Golf CoursePlease contact the following tournament coordinators:Wally Cousart : Cell no. 403-8612521 [email protected] Nanagad : Cell no. 403-3971861 [email protected] Adel Amar : Cell No. 403-6186047 [email protected] Lal Buiza : Cell No. 403-6514687 [email protected]

Emer Valle : Cell No. 403-6153192 [email protected] Herman Esperanza+: Cell No. 403-9902148 [email protected]

Annual Summer Picnic – August 30, 2014, Saturday, 3:00 – 9:00 PM, North Glenmore Park, Snowy Owl Picnic SitePlease contact the following organizers:Wally Cousart : Cell no. 403-8612521 [email protected] Malig: Phone No. 403-229-9176 [email protected]

Minister Kenney Issues Statement to Celebrate Philippine Independence Day:“Today, I extend my best wishes to Filipinos in Canada and around the world as they celebrate Philippine Independence Day.

“It was 116 years ago today that the Filipino people proclaimed independence from more than three centuries of Spanish colonial rule. On this day we celebrate the independent, optimistic and vibrant spirit of the Filipino people, and we commemorate the sacrifices of their national heroes.

“Canada benefits from a hard-working and growing Filipino community. The Philippines is one of the largest source countries for newcomers to Canada, and Tagalog is Canada’s fastest growing language. Canadians of Filipino origin are making tremendous contributions to our country’s success.

“Moreover, Canada continues to strengthen our friendship with the Philippines, as demonstrated by Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s visit to Manila in 2012, and more recently by our contribution to recovery efforts following the tragedy of Hurricane Haiyan.

“As Minister for Multiculturalism, I encourage all Canadians to join with their Filipino neighbours in celebrating Philippine Independence Day and learning more about our country’s vibrant Filipino community. “Mabuhay!”

Page 6: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

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June 20146 The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

by Perry [email protected]

PEREZCOPE

Reforming the reformers

I watched the “Godfather” movie -- for the umpteenth time -- last week and loved every scene just like when I saw it the first time 42 years ago. Yes, forty-two years and the movie is still popular – indeed, very popular -- and the No. 1 movie of all time. It had brought criminal enterprise and the violence and corruption that it brews into a level of acceptability – and even respectability -- in people’s lives.

In the same year the “Godfather” made its debut in the movies, another “Godfather” emerged from the political doldrums of the early years of an independent Philippines. On September 21, 1971, in a stroke of madness, then President Ferdinand E. Marcos signed Proclamation

No. 1081, the declaration of martial law.

Fifteen years later, the EDSA People Power revolution ousted Marcos and brought Cory Aquino to power. She presided over a revolutionary government, rewriting the constitution in the process. Known as the 1987 Constitution – often called Cory’s Constitution -- it was supposed to dismantle and reform the corrupt system of government that Marcos left behind.

Anti-corruption provisions were added to the constitution; however, not all of them were self-executing, such as those found in Article II, the Declaration of Principles and State Policies. Most of them are general principles that require a supplementary or enabling legislation to make them executory. Without the enabling laws, these constitutional provisions are hollow and useless.

Fighting corruption

Twenty-seven years later, Cory’s son Benigno “P-Noy” Aquino III, who became president in 2010, is still struggling to fulfill his promise of change, “Pagbabago.” He has been in office for almost four years, yet things seem like they hadn’t changed at all. His

campaign slogan, “Walang korap, walang mahirap” (No corruption, no poverty), which excited a lot of people during the presidential election, is now the most despised cliché in Philippine politics. Corruption in government continues with impunity and people are mired in abject poverty and misery.

The famous French journalist and novelist Alphonse Karr once said in 1839, “The more things change, the more they are the same.” This epigram seems to fit well into P-Noy’s “Pagbabago.” And no matter how much P-Noy tries, if he had tried at all, the government is so corrupt that he has to go -- beyond demagoguery -- to hell and slay the devil himself. Then and only then can he pierce the firewall that protects the corrupt, many of who are members of his inner circle including his KKK cronies – Kakampi, Kaklase, Kabarilan (party mates, classmates, and shooting buddies) -- whose loyalty to him is betrayed by their corrupt activities for personal aggrandizement.

Institutionalized corruption

In my article, “Institutionalized corruption” (November 21, 2012), I wrote: “In many countries, like the United States, people with ill-gotten wealth deposit their money in banks in Switzerland or the Cayman Islands, where bank secrecy laws protect the identity of depositors. But in the Philippines, a corrupt official, a drug lord or a jueteng operator doesn’t need to go abroad to hide their dirty money. Yep, they can go straight to their local bank and open a foreign currency deposit account and nobody can see it, not even government investigators.

“Known as ‘Foreign Currency Deposit Act of the Philippines,’ Republic Act (RA) 6426 was signed into law by then President Ferdinand E. Marcos in 1974 during the martial law era. The law states that any information can only be disclosed ‘upon written permission of the depositor.’ Many believe that it was enacted for the purpose of hiding the ill-gotten wealth of Marcos and his cronies.

“But RA 6426 survived when the people power revolution toppled the Marcos dictatorship.

Oddly, it remains in the books to this day. Perhaps, the lawmakers find it useful.

“After Corona was impeached and removed from office, there was a move by a few lawmakers to amend or repeal RA 6426. But P-Noy didn’t warm up to the idea and it ended up in limbo, never to see the light of day again.”

Freedom of Information

But instead of reforming the law, P-Noy chose to run his administration with shallow slogans. He prods his underlings to walk a straight path --“Daang matuwid” – in the exercise of their responsibilities. But many of them have chosen to take a path that runs counter to P-Noy’s objectives. To make matters worse, P-Noy disregarded allegations of impropriety against his appointees. And without looking at the facts, he absolved them of any wrongdoing, saying that they’re “presumed innocent until proven guilty.” But Mr. President, how can anyone prove their guilt when you’d dismiss these allegations without investigating them?

But even if investigations were done, they might not produce evidence to prosecute erring public officials because of the secrecy lid on information, which can be pried open with the passage the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill.

P-Noy knows too well that the notion of FOI was embodied in Section 24, Article II of Cory’s Constitution, to wit: “The State recognizes the vital role of communication and information in nation-building.” The framers of the constitution must have realized that an FOI law is indispensible to building a nation of laws; thus, ensuring transparency and accountability in government.

But P-Noy believes that he doesn’t need an FOI law to govern. His spinmeisters defend his position saying that P-Noy is honest and transparent; therefore, there is no need for FOI. I agree that P-Noy is inherently an honest person. However, how can he claim transparency when he refuses public access to government information? If he has nothing to hide, what is there to fear?

The next Godfather

And how about the next president after him? There is no

guarantee that P-Noy’s successor would be as honest and transparent as him. And looking at the present crop of presidentiables, in my opinion there is no one that is untainted by allegations of corruption. And who knows, the next “Godfather” might just be a vote away.

If P-Noy were really serious about dismantling institutionalized corruption, there are a few things that he could do: (1) Pass the FOI bill; (2) Remove the secrecy lid on RA 6426; (3) Comply fully with international anti-money laundering law requirements; (4) pass the anti-dynasty bill; and (5) decriminalize libel. It’s a tall order, but if P-Noy wants to stand tall and leave a legacy, then no order is too tall that he couldn’t achieve.

At the end of the day, instituting reforms in government should – nay, must! – begin with reforming the reformers and then reform the law. And don't forget to always start at the top.

by Jairus Bilo

Flat Landan utmost infinite loopwhat left off cave mentalitywarmth mitosis of surelytantric cycles withinloops of functionanimated and vibranttungsten metal loopinga fact mutationheavy breath funkchiding warm timeamp fuel acidityclever medicine oroutright bunk sadnesswhipping your conversational sticksto mark out incoherencyin residence paid out of plaidpartial to non-existentawareness of ignorant candysweet nothings underminesour everything notes aplenty

Page 7: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

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Canada’s best tennis performance in historyBy Erlinda Dolly Tan

The 2014 French Open was Canada’s best performance in a tennis Grand Slam

tournament, in history. Thanks to Genie Bouchard and Milos Raonic for putting Canada to the world tennis map. We are not just a hockey country, we have now penetrated the tennis world as well.

Bouchard made it to the French Open semi finals held in Paris this June. She lost to Maria Sharapova in the semi finals but it was a tight match the whole time. Gauging from who they are, Sharapova as a veteran player and Bouchard as a new comer, fans thought the former would give the latter a tennis clinic on the court. Wrong! Bouchard lost in three sets and until the last part of the game, it was anybody’s game.

About 1.5 million viewers watched the match on TV, some fans stopped working and left their work stations to watch. Even politicians supported Bouchard, Liberal Party leader Justin Trudeau made this statement before the match: “So often we think of hockey as being Canada’s game – but tomorrow, I have a feeling that Canadians will be shifting their attention from the ice to the clay to cheer on one of our most promising young athletes. On behalf of our Caucus, I would like to wish her the best of luck tomorrow in Paris.”

Bouchard has come a long way from being a junior Grand Slam champion. This year, she made it to the semi finals of both the French

Open and Australian Open. She’s the only Canadian ever to have reached two Grand Slam semi finals.

From world #30 in January at the Australian Open, Bouchard rose to #16 at the French Open in June. After reaching the semi finals, she became #12. She is expected to join the elite Top 10 in less than a year. She has a die-hard fan base called the “Genie Army” who follows her every game. (This writer is one of them.)

Bouchard was born in Montreal on February 25, 1994. She stands 5’10” and started playing tennis at the age of five.

Another Canadian soaring high in world tennis is Milos Raonic.

Quarter finalist in this year’s French Open, he is the first Canadian man in history to have reached a Grand Slam quarter finals. He became world #10 in August last year. He is currently #9.

Roanic is from Thornhill, Ontario. He was born in December 27, 1990 in Yugoslavia (now Montenegro). His family moved to Canada when he was three, he started playing tennis at eight. He stands 6’5”.

The future of Canadian tennis is bright! Five years ago, the question was whether we will produce a player who will make it to a Grand Slam tournament or not. We made it in no time and we have two! When

Genie Bouchard at this year's French Open semi finals. Bouchard is currently world #12.

Bouchard's fan base called the "Genie Army" who follows her every game.

Milos Raonic at this year's French Open quarter finals. Raonic is currently world #9.

Bouchard and Raonic entered the Grand Slam, the question became whether we will make it to the Top 20 or not. The question was wrong, we even made it to the Top 10! The

question now is whether we will win a Grand Slam or not.

We will, it’s just a matter of time. History is there, it’s just an arm’s length now. Go Canada!

Page 8: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40032612Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to:

Molave Publishing Company, Inc. 46 Pincarrow Road, Winnipeg, MB R3Y 1E3

We welcome submissions-news, articles, pictures and letters. Letters must include signature and phone number; names can be withheld upon request. We reserve the right to edit for length and content. All submissions, unless arrangements are made, become the property of the publisher. Reproduction of contents, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited without the expressed written permission from the Publisher/Editor. Opinions by columnist, writers, and readers do not in any way reflect those of the Publisher/Editor.

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aLfie vera mellaAssociate Editor

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Official PhotographerNoli GranadoChristopher & Nikki Richter

Contributing Writers:Johnny Cantiveros Melanie Angeles Gem & Lita Anis Perry Diaz Danilo Donor Jon SalvadorMiya Villarena Lito Mendoza Velasco Naresh Bhardwaj Jerry Caingcoy Jairus Bilo Erlinda Dolly Tan Thomas A. Lukaszuk

Published Quarterlywww.FilipinoBrideAndGroom.com

Published AnnuallyRonald CantiverosPublisher/Chief Operating OfficerVP-Business DevelopmentManaging Editor

Rod Escobar CantiverosSales & Advertising

Jose (Jun) Angeles, Jr.Associate Publisher - Alberta246 Lindsay St. Edmonton, AB T64 2T2email: [email protected] or 1- 780-916-7677.

Jose “Pepito” MagpayoAssociate Editor/[email protected](403) 264-5605

FilipinoJournal.comAll photos & articles available online!

June 20148 The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

by Dr. Eusebio Koh

Our National Hero

The greatest Filipino who ever lived is not Manny Pacquiao who might be

the most popular having beaten most of the top boxers in several divisions. He could be the Filipino who made the most money in one day (over US$20 million.) Nor is the greatest Pinoy Flash Elorde or Ninoy Aquino or Ramon Magsaysay or even Lapulapu.

The greatest Filipino has his picture in some Philippine stamps and paper money, has the greatest number of monuments in the Philippines in his honor, and has streets, towns, schools, sports arenas, a university, a province named after him. He is also the man most often quoted for his timeless thoughts, ideas and ideals. He is our National Hero, Jose Protasio Rizal Mercado y Alonzo, born June 19, 1861 in Calamba, Laguna and died December 30, 1896 in Manila. He lived thirty five years but what a lifetime of achievements and dedication to his country and his countrymen.

Some still believe that his rise to national stature and prominence was micro-managed by the Americans as they are wont to do wherever they stick their noses around the world as in Panama, Korea, Vietnam and Iraq. Over a century ago, Gov. William H. Taft was supposed to have said to the three Filipino members of the Philippine Commission he chaired (Trinidad de Tavera, Benito Legarda, Jose Luzuriaga), “And now, gentlemen, you must have a national hero.” And these men, in dogged obedience,

chose Rizal after considering among others, Marcelo del Pilar of La Solidaridad, Gen. Antonio Luna with victories over the Spaniards during the Revolution, Emilio Jacinto of Kalayaan and Andres Bonifacio – Father of the Philippine Revolution. This is far from the truth, but I can imagine Taft suggesting to the Commission that honoring some of the fallen Filipinos in the Revolution has an uplifting and unifying effect.

Rizal was great long before Taft came into the picture – a brilliant (sobre-saliente) student, a leader among the expatriates in Europe, a writer and novelist, a physician, a researcher. He led the Propaganda Campaign for reforms in the Philippines during the period 1882 to 1896.

His novel Noli me Tangere, published in 1887 in Berlin, Germany showed his nationalism and helped to establish the Filipino identity. The Noli in a way influenced the Revolution although Rizal consistently claimed no such purpose. He was basically a reformer. But his friend, Prof. Ferdinand Blumentritt said to him of the Noli, “Your work, as we German say, has been written with the blood of the heart… If you continue so, you will be to your people one of those great men who will exercise a deterministic influence over the progress of their spiritual life.”

Prof. Blumentritt also said, “Rizal was the greatest product of the Philippines and his coming to the world was like the appearance of a rare comet whose brilliance appear only every other century.”

Being the most intelligent and outspoken of the Filipinos made him a most dangerous man to the Spanish tyrants. It was therefore necessary and expedient for the oppressors to eliminate him and make him an example and a warning to those who might follow in his footsteps. After a brief mock trial, he was put to death by firing squad early in the morning of December 30, 1896

at Bagumbayan Field (Luneta) in Manila. Ironically, the squad was made up of Filipinos.

In the Noli, Crisostomo Ibarra (who personifies Jose Rizal) said, “I love my country, the Philippines, because to it I owe my life, my happiness and because every man must love his country.” Dr. Jose Rizal became our National Hero not only because of his genius, his multiple talents but because of his unquenchable love of the Philippines.

On December 20, 1898, almost two years after Rizal’s execution, Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo issued the first official Proclamation making December 30 “Rizal Day”.

While waiting in prison for his mock trial and execution, Rizal wrote the poem "Mi último adiós" in Spanish. (It is believed that he had this poem written even before his imprisonment,) Probably the most famous translation of this 14-stanza poem was by Charles Derbyshire which begins with

Farewell, dear Fatherland, clime of the sun caress'd

Pearl of the Orient seas, our Eden lost!

Gladly now I go to give thee this faded life's best,

And were it brighter, fresher, or more blest

Still would I give it thee, nor count the cost.

And concludes withFarewell to you all, from my

soul torn away,Friends of my childhood in

the home dispossessed!Give thanks that I rest from

the wearisome day!Farewell to thee, too, sweet

friend that lightened my way;Beloved creatures all,

farewell! In death there is rest! This poem was recited by

Congressman Henry A. Cooper on June 19, 1902 to standing ovation in his sponsorship of the Cooper Act which led eventually to the independence of the Philippines.

8 May 2014

Fil-Canadian Com. of Edmontonc/o Alberta Filipino Journal246 Lindsay StreetEdmonton, AB T6R 2T2Canada

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Greetings of Easter peace and joy!Eight months after typhoon Yolanda hit several parts of the Philippines, we in the Archdiocese of Manila continue to thank God for the compassionate and generous people like you who have manifested active solidarity with the victims and survivors. I thank you for your donation of CD 9,770.00 and CD 100.00 coursed through the Archdiocese of Manila for the relief and reconstruction efforts in the affected areas. In this letter I would like to explain how we have been handling your donations.Caritas Manila is the main arm of the Archdiocese of Manila in responding to the needs of the ten dioceses most badly affected. Local and foreign donations that reached us were coursed either directly to Caritas Manila or through the Treasury Department of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Manila, the latter being the route that you took. After the initial relief operations, our efforts have been focused on the long process of rehabilitation. We deal directly with bishops, priests, religious orders and lay organizations on the ground. We serve people of any religious affiliation. Through Caritas Manila we accept project proposals, review and evaluate them based on set criteria, release funds in stages based on the progress of accomplishment and reliable financial and social audit. We try to safeguard your donations from misuse and abuse.To date Caritas Manila has received a total of Ph peso 104,516,564.22 in cash and Ph peso 36,832,031.40 in kind for a grand total of Ph peso 141,348,595.62 or approximately US $3,141,079.89 (at the conversion rate of Ph peso 45 to US$ 1). Caritas Manila has distributed goods and cash worth PH peso 147,669,784.07 or US$ 3,281,550.76 (inclusive of administrative cost). Caritas Manila and the Archdiocese of Manila covered the deficit.

To date the Archdiocese of Manila has received cash donations of Ph peso 147,820,883.28 or US $3,284,908.51. Your donation is part of this sum. We released Ph peso 10,000,000 or US$222,222.20 to Caritas Manila within the first two weeks after the typhoon. So far we have received the following proposals for rehabilitation project: - Church/chapel reconstruction: Ph peso 53,771,981.62 (US$1,194,932.91) - Livelihood & employment: Ph peso 9,559,090.00 (US$212,424.22) - Scholarships/Educational aid: Ph peso 50,000,000.00 (US$1,111,111.10)

The total cost of these projects submitted to the Archdiocese of Manila is Ph peso 13,331,071.62 (US$2,518,468.24)We have released Ph peso 16,075,703.62 (US$357,237.84). The process of screening and monitoring the projects continues. As I have already mentioned, we try our best to disburse your donation to those who could fulfill the requirements.In our next report we will send you the complete list of the projects, their locations and costs. If you have any query please do not hesitate to communicate to us.Once again I thank you in the name of the people of the ten dioceses where your help has been and will be channeled. We ask you to continue praying for all of us as we face the arduous and long task of rebuilding homes, schools, churches, lives and dreams. I pray that the Risen Lord may grant you peace and joy.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Luis Antonio G. Cardinal TagleArchbishop of Manila

Page 9: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

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Filipino Journal is the no.1 Filipino-Canadian Newspaper in Alberta that published 10,000 copies once a month. We are the largest and fastest growing Filipino-Canadian newspaper, with 70,000 Filipino’s and Canadian readers. With a unique message that will attract readers and consumers. Advertising your products and services is one of the most strategic business decisions you can make.

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June 2014 9

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Pinoy GLBT Marshals the 2014 Edmonton Pride ParadeBy Jun Angeles

Pinoy float led the parade with its Bubble Fly (Octopus) adornment complete with beautiful mermaids (serenas) and Neptunes with their skimpy costume. The Pinoy LGBT on its 4th year

Mayor of Edmonton Don Iveson with his kids Dexter & Alice Oilers Team Captain Andrew FerenceDrag Queen Brianna Labasen

The Float The Mermaids

GLBT Pinoy & Friends

Queens of the Orient

The Sponsors & Supporters

participation is this year's marshal leading the parade in a variegated and kaleidoscopic colors. With the help of their sponsors, the Lola Emma's restaurant, Palabok House restaurant and Panciteria

de Manila restaurant, the Pinoy LGBT became one the major participants in this year's parade.

The festival ran from June 7, to 15, 2014 with different events around downtown and

neighboring places. the City of Edmonton supports the LGBT Pride Festival, considered one of the biggest festivals in Western Canada. Mayor Don Iveson and his kids Dexter and Alice,

the Premier of Alberta David Hancock, MLA Thomas Lukasuk and openly gay Oilers' team Captain Andrew Ference were among the notables participating in the Pride Parade.

Page 12: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

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June 201410 The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

L-R Ferdie & Merle Mendita Hermie & Jun Angeles, Christy & Ted Tuazon, Eloisa & Ron Lau. Photo by Dario Juanillo

The famous Max’s Restaurant opens in EdmontonBy Erlinda Dolly Tan

The house that fried chicken built, has found its way to Edmonton!

Famous for Filipino cuisine and one of the oldest restaurants in the Philippines, Max’s officially opened its Edmonton branch on June 22nd. It has a floor area of 9,600 square feet. It is the biggest Max’s Restaurant in North America and the second biggest of over 150 branches in the Philippines, Middle East, USA and Canada.

Max’s Edmonton has three function rooms as follows: Maximo Hall – accommodates 150 persons, Claro Room – 90 persons, Ruby Room – 30 persons and the hallway – 26 persons. Dining area sitting capacity is 146 persons.

But the big space is just secondary, the primary thing that made Max’s famous is their food. Started in 1945 after World War II, Max’s has intricately developed their menu for almost 70 years now. They are famous for Kare-Kare (Beef Peanut Stew), Crispy Pata (Crispy Pork Hock), Lumpiang Shanghai (ground pork and vegetables rolled in a pastry wrapper), Fresh Lumpiang Ubod (Heart of Palm Egg Roll), Pancit Canton (Egg Noodle) and of course… fried chicken.

“Max” is short for Maximo Gimenez, a Filipino Stanford-educated teacher who befriended American occupation troops stationed in Quezon City, Philippines during the war. Some soldiers would come to his house for a drink or two. Maximo then

decided to open a café that served chicken and steak. And the rest of the story is history.

Over the years, Max’s has been a favorite venue for birthday parties, graduation celebrations, Sunday family lunch and all kinds of reunions. Max’s is definitely a family place, its red signage is a Filipino trademark. With about 40,000 Filipinos in Edmonton, Max’s has found its way to one of the biggest Filipino communities in North America.

The grand opening was attended by Max’s Board of Directors, Max’s International CEO - Bill Rodgers and CEO/President of Pancake House - Robert Trota. (Pancake is under Max’s Group of Companies.) Also in attendance were some leaders of the Filipino community. Max’s Edmonton is operated by Nelson Rodriguez, a long-time entrepreneur in the restaurant business.

Welcome to Edmonton, Max’s!We are glad to be reunited with you!

Photos by Dolly Tan

Filipino Journal publisher Jun Angeles, with Max's Edmonton proprietor Nelson Rodriguez.

Max's Restaurant, one of the oldest restaurants in the Philippines, is now in Edmonton.

The Board of Directors posed with the crew.

"The house that fried chicken built" is the newest addition to the Filipino community in town.

At the grand opening last June 22nd.

Page 13: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

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Pam Llamas

Samantha Roque

Pam Llamas the daughter of Minda & Sam Llamas from Edmonton graduated with honors as full pledge dental hygienist in Toronto. Congrats Pam! :-)

Samantha Roque graduated with honours in Dental Hygiene Program in Toronto With her parents Gemma and Allan Roque.

L-R Sam, Euela, Pam and Minda Llamas ( missing in the picture is Pam's brother Christopher).

Page 14: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

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June 201412 The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

1. Additional terms and conditions apply. Full details are available at bmo.com/300cashoffer/taglish, or visit any BMO branch. Offer is available from June 1, 2014, – August 31, 2014. You have the opportunity to earn up to $300 in cash bonuses when you open a new Chequing Account and Savings Account (defined below). To qualify for the first $100 cash bonus, you must open a new Primary Chequing Account (“Chequing Account”) with a Plus, Performance or Premium Plan, make a deposit by August 31, 2014 AND set up a recurring direct deposit from your employer or pension and have a direct deposit transaction credited to the Chequing Account by October 31, 2014. To qualify for the second $100 cash bonus, you must setup a pre-authorized bill payment, have it debited from the Chequing Account by October 31, 2014 AND sign up for and log in to BMO Online or Mobile Banking by October 31, 2014. (both bonus offers collectively “Chequing Account Bonus”). An additional $100 cash bonus is available if you qualify for the Chequing Account Bonus and open a new Smart Saver Account or Premium Rate Savings Account (collectively “Savings Account”) and maintain a balance of at least $3,000 in the Saving Account until December 31, 2014. Cash bonus(es) for the Chequing Account offer will be credited to the Chequing Account by December 31, 2014. Cash bonus for the Savings Account offer will be credited to the Chequing Account by February 28, 2015. Offers may be changed, withdrawn or extended at any time without notice. 2.To qualify for any special offer pertaining to the BMO NewStart program as set out above, a customer must be a landed immigrant or foreign worker who arrived in Canada within the last five (5) years. Proof that status was obtained within the last five (5) years is required as evidenced by their Canadian Permanent Resident Card, Record of Landing documentation or work permit (IMM 1442). The Bank Plan offer included in the BMO NewStart program applies to the Performance Plan only. (Other Bank Plans are available but are not included in the free banking offer). After the twelve (12) months of being enrolled in the BMO NewStart program, eligibility for the monthly Bank Plan fee waiver ends and the full monthly Bank Plan fee will be applied to your account automatically. You are responsible for all transaction, service and product fees not included in your Bank Plan. TM/® Trade-marks and registered trade-marks of Bank of Montreal. This Taglish translation is provided for reference only. Should there be any discrepancy between the Taglish and English/French version, the English/French version shall prevail.

Step 1:Open a chequing account and set up a recurring deposit. Get $100.

Mag-umpisa magbangko sa BMO® and we’ll give you up to $3001.Plus, kung kayo ay newcomer sa Canada, libre ang inyong banking for a year2!

Follow these three easy steps to $300.

Step 2:Set up a Pre-Authorized Payment and login to BMO Online or Mobile Banking. Get $100.

Step 3:Open a savings account and deposit at least $3,000. Get $100.

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Bumisita sa sangay o bmo.com/300cashoffer/taglish para sa detalye.

JC de Vera and KZ Tandingan visit EdmontonBy Erlinda Dolly Tan

The young generation of Edmonton’s Filipino community had a blast of

laughter and music when two of Philippine’s hottest artists, JC de Vera and KZ Tandingan, held a concert at the River Cree Resort last June 15th.

It was a full-house concert!JC de Vera rose to fame via the

popular soap opera “Legal Wife.” Amazing that even Filipino foreign

JC de Vera and KZ Tandingan sing for Filipino fans at the River Cree Resort. A full-house concert at the River Cree Resort, KZ Tandingan performing on stage.

Some sponsors of the event. Wearing a tie at extreme left is Jun Angeles, publisher of Alberta Filipino Journal.

Producer of the show and CEO of Great Smile Promotions, Dr. Nimrod Montano (2nd from left) with his family.

Filipino Journal columnist Erlinda Dolly Tan with JC de Vera.

workers abroad know the 28-year old actor dubbed as “The Hunk.” The audience exploded in cheers when he emerged for the first time at the stage. They loved it the more when he went down to greet them personally. He’s not only good looking but charming as well. He had a hard time finding his way back to the stage as everybody wanted to pose beside him for a “selfie” shot.

With him was KZ Tandingan, first season winner of “The X Factor Philippines” who beat 12 other finalists. The 22-year old talented lass is from Digos, Davao del Sur. She comes from humble beginnings. She didn’t grow up in Manila and she is not born to celebrity parents. But her singing prowess brought her to where she is today. Her voice was indeed beautiful and stunning.

Many lined up to buy their CD after the concert. Those with CD were privileged to get their autograph and pose beside them for picture taking.

The night started with an opening-act from two popular comedians, AJ Tamiza and Le Chazz. They were hilarious with non-stop jokes. Jokes that only Filipinos can laugh at, jokes that made the

audience forget for couple of hours, the hardships of being a foreign worker.

Jo-Ann Aguilar, a local talent of the community, was a guest singer and emcee of the night. The concert was produced by Great Smile Promotions headed by its CEO, Dr. Nimrod G. Montano.

Alberta Filipino Journal was one of the sponsors.

JC de Vera and KZ Tandingan sing for Filipino fans at the Ria Comedians of the night, AJ Tamiza and Le Chazz, who were hilarious on their non-stop pinoy jokes. ree Resort.

Fans chased JC de Vera at the concert.

Page 15: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

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REFUSE?Find out what you don’t know about unsafe work at workright.alberta.ca

by Ron [email protected]

My Ride

2014 435i xDrive Coupé

Let me say this. What a magnificent car!

Just like a kid in a candy store, every single minute behind the wheel of the new 2014 BMW 435i xDrive was exhilarating. In my short automobile journalist career, I can count on one hand the number of vehicles that came equipped with a manual transmission. Yes, a stick shift almost always guarantees happiness behind the wheel. Well, for me at least.

The new 2014 BMW 4-series replaces the 3-Series coupe. The 435i xDrive comes equipped with a 3 litre inline 6-cyclinder engine with 300hp and packs a punch. In several 0-100km/hr tests, acceleration times were between 5-6 seconds. Lots and lots of power under the hood especially when engaged in the Sport+Comfort driving mode.

The exterior of the new

435i is beautiful. The side body paneling is sleek and the added M styling offers a more aggressive look. The 435i is longer, wider and is set lower than the former 3-Series equivalent 335. It's one sexy sports coupe.

The interior styling has the classic BMW look with soft touch leather throughout the front cabin. Front cabin seating is extremely comfortable. In the rare case that someone actually sits in the back, there would be ample leg room and space. That's also assuming that the person is shorter than my 5'8" frame.

I really didn't want to give this car back to BMW after my one-week road test. I'm truly

going to miss my seatbelt butler too. Upon closing the door, a retractable arm pushes the seatbelt forward for easy reach. After buckling up, the arm retracts. I joked with several passengers on it's nickname. "Seatbelt Butler" was the favourite.

Now let's see how much money I'm going to ask from my banker. Base MSRP is $56,600. Throw in the $4,900 Premium Package which includes rear view camera, active LED headlights, park assist, XM Satellite and an upgraded Harman/Kardon sound system. Add the $2,500 Executive Package and $850 Connected Drive Package, the price as tested is $63,850. Interior driver’s cabin in Black Dakota Leather.

2014 435i xDrive Coupé in Alpine White. Photos by Ron Cantiveros | Filipino Journal

Page 16: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

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June 201414 The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

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Mercan Recruit Ltd. Mercan has successfully brought 25,000 individuals to Canada

Since 1989 and assisted them in obtaining permanent residency. The founder and President, Mr. Jerome Morgan (R415983) and TFW Recruitment and Immigration Projects Manager,

Marjorie Quintos (R507150) are accredited members of the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council, and Ms. Valerie Marcas,

Is a member of Quebec Bar, Canadian Bar Association and the Quebec Immigration Lawyers Association.

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Mercan Recruit Ltd. 840, 10117 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, AB T5J 1W8 Tel No. (780) 638 1510

www.mercanrecruit.com

Angelita "Nene" Sarinas Celebrated 65th Birthday & RetirementAngelita fondly called Nene celebrated her birthday and retirement party with a Tropical Island theme last Saturday June 21, 2014 at the Renaissance, Meadowlark Amenities Hall in Edmonton. After working with

Nene with her family.

Nene with husband Toy and guests.

Nene with her family and friends.

the Provincial Government, Nene officially retired on her 65th birthday. Travelling to the tropical countries will be on her agenda as part of her retirement plans. Happy Birthday and Happy Retirement Nene!

Alsaybar & Hopcraft WeddingCongratulations to Ken-vee & Shaun on their wedding last Sunday, June 1, 2014 held at 17 Lombard Crescent, St. Albert, Alberta.

Page 18: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

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June 201416 The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

MLA

Naresh Bhardwaj

9:00 - 11:00 AM1720 - 88 Street SW

July 1

Free BreakfastVenue: Summerside Beach House

As the MLA for Edmonton-Ellerslie, I am always available to assist constituents. If you have any questions or concerns, I can be reached in my constituency office at 780-414-2000, or my Legislature office at 780-644-3845. Also, please subscribe to my E newsletter at http://bhardwaj.mypcmla.ca/.

Message from Naresh Bhardwaj - MLA for Edmonton-Ellerslie

MLA Bhardwaj joins some of his Community’s Heroes to Raise Awareness for MSOn Sunday May 25, 2014, MLA Bhardwaj laced up his running shoes and joined a large group of other devoted Edmontonians for a great cause – the MS Walk and Run at Sir Wilfred Laurier park! This annual event raises awareness and funds for research to find a cure for this devastating disease. Over 14,000 Albertans

are affected by MS, which means it indirectly affects all of us. The Walk/Run helps bring the community closer and reminds us that together, we can make a real difference in the lives of Albertans who are affected by MS.

One of those lives is that of Edmonton-Ellerslie resident Julie Kelendorfer and MLA Bhardwaj

was honoured to walk as part of the team captained by her son Joshua. Julie was diagnosed with MS when Joshua was just one year old and he has been fighting to help find a cure for his mom since he was 5. “Joshua’s Team” rallies family and friends to help (as Joshua puts it) CRUNCH MS! Trying to find a cure for his mom has led him to be one of the top fundraisers year after year. In 2014 he alone raised $4775 (8th overall) and his team raised an amazing $12,255 (7th overall) – way to go Josh!

It was with great pleasure that I had the distinguished opportunity to announce in my constituency the exciting news of the increase in Residential Access Modification Program (RAMP) The increase in this fund will allow Albertans with disabilities, including seniors with walkers to access more funding for their living environments to be improved for easier living.

This increase will assist Albertans the comfort of living in their own homes with more accessibility.

I am especially excited about visiting all of my constituents in the next few weeks. Please watch for my team and myself who will be door knocking in your neighborhood. Open conversation and communication is the key to create ever-lasting partnerships. I am always willing to assist where I can with an open door policy as there is no limit to our achievements working as a team towards a shared vision. We will continue to strengthen this wonderful community of Edmonton-Ellerslie with great ideas and good conversation!!

An integral component of building a strong community is by taking part in special events. I make every effort possible to attend all local events in Edmonton-Ellerslie Constituency., and keep in touch will all residential concerns.

Temporary Foreign Worker Program reinstated;hospitality businessmen cry foul

Reactions from the different stakeholders range from approval and disbelief

after Minister of Employment Jason Kenny and Immigration Chris Alexander announced Friday the up to the bone changes of the Temporary Foreign Workers Program. The owners and operators of restaurants and other hospitality business have voiced out their concerns.

"Who cannot afford to pay the $1,000 user fee?," Lydia Jimenez, owner of Palabok House in a telephone interview."The changes are affecting us, and cannot we stay in business if we do not have available workers, either we shut the business down or increase the prices of our food."

As reported by the Globe and Mail, the change has terminated the program for most low-wage jobs in the regions with more than 6 per cent unemployment; and this has affected more the Alberta and the Saskatchewan and other

regions. Employers will face the $1,000 fee from the former rate of $275 per request of workers coming from outside of the country. And added to this, like a salt rubs on a wound, only 10% of the workforce will be consist of temporary foreign workers.

In the changes, the Government of Canada has imposed that Canadians must have first access to jobs in this country.

Alberta has been totally affected by the new ruling. As you visit many restaurants, coffee houses, fast food outlets, one will be greeted with smile by the temporary foreign workers. The business has been booming even at the late night visit for a hot stemming coffee.

"Without these temporary foreign workers, this coffee shop should have closed at an early hours; now, with the presence of these hard working people, business thrives," said by one

of my friends who, every other night, would invite his friends for a coffee and donut.

In the Globe and Mail, Hon. Kyle Fawcett, minister of jobs, skills, training and labor, had emphatically made a comment that the changes have a grave, grave concerns about the economic impact to her province. In a letter sent to the business owners who had a meeting with the minister did give a ray of hope, that the Alberta government has the support to the food services sector in the province.

As Ms. Jimenez said;"We had a meeting with Minister Kyle Fawcett and we are hoping that we the small business operators be given a softer regulation in order to operate our business. Right now, we pay our server $11.50 per hour and our cook gets $17 per hour. We want to be a part of engine which propels the economy. The changes will hurt our business."

Restaurants Canada, a group representing restaurant owners have foreseen that with the increase in user fees will force some restaurants to close, or to charge the customers much higher food costs.

Some media in their editorials and columns, and other sectors who have supported the Conservative government to

change the program applauded the new initiative for the Temporary Foreign Workers Program.

"We cannot move forward with these stumbling blocks in front of our business operation," Ms. Jimenez said. " We do not know until when we can operate with this kind of business climate, seems to be against us. But, we are hoping for the best."

Page 19: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

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Filipino LDS church members

Filipino members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints during their "1st Alberta Filipino Fireside." About 200 Filipino immigrants and foreign workers attended the occasion. The church plans to hold the affair on a yearly basis.

by Erlinda Dolly [email protected]

A maple-coated Filipino Heart

A Father’s Day tribute

I loved browsing my Facebook on Father’s Day. It was full of inspiring stories about my friends’ dads, their sacrifices and heroism to the family. I was especially moved to read stories of a father-and-daughter relationship. It’s something I was not fortunate to experience in this life.

I don’t have a story to share about my dad. He died of car accident when I was seven. But he left something, a 50-year old heirloom that I still have with me today. I wrote a story about this and I never expected it will become my little “bestseller.” Any publication I submit the story to, prints it. It was printed in the Philippines, in Singapore and here in Canada. Using this story, Edmonton Journal featured me on their Father’s Day Special Issue in June 2011.

I want to share the article to our valued Filipino Journal readers. Especially to the awesome fathers out there! Please find below.

*************************

My father died in a car accident when I was seven. He was a civil engineer and traveled a lot to his projects so I barely spent quality time with him. I only have vague memories of my dad.

In the Philippines, I grew up in a house constructed along the coast on top of a seawall. Dad built that house. It was a beautiful place with sunset view and sea breeze.

But our province is known for typhoons. We get more than ten a year. Typhoons with wind speeds of 250 kph aren’t news there. They can be very destructive as they break window panes and take off roofs, leaving few things dry inside the house. I can’t remember how many typhoons I have experienced when I was growing up.

Today, I don't have a single picture of my dad. Typhoons left all of his documents soaked in the early 1980s, before we could have access to scanners and computers. I don't have anything to remember him by, except for one little thing I was able to salvage – a scrapbook.

Through this scrapbook, I believe I have come to know him as a person, his inclinations in life, and maybe his personality too. This scrapbook is a compilation of pictures and stories of the late US president John F. Kennedy.

When I found it, I was so amazed that my dad, who lived in a remote town in the Philippines, a town that didn't have power supply even in the 1970s, could have idolized this American president so much to the extent of collecting news clippings about him.

The scrapbook has pictures and stories of JFK from his inauguration

into office until he was shot dead. Which means that my dad had gathered these articles over a period.

From this, I came to some conclusions about the kind of father I had -- a man who followed politics, a man who was good at documentation, a technical-sentimental person who treasured memories, a person who valued those things in life on which many couldn’t really put value on, like a scrapbook.

Call it genes or coincidence but I am this kind of person too. Not to mention that I am an engineer as well. Was the scrapbook an influence on what I would become? I don’t know and it doesn’t really matter.

What is important is that I found a "connection" to my father through this scrapbook even if I never got to spend much of my life with him. Anywhere I go I bring this 50-year old priceless heirloom with me.

Sometimes I ask, why did he prepare this scrap book? Did he ever think that someday it will be very valuable to his children? Again, I don’t know. But I have decided to continue what he did. I also cut out and keep any news article I find about the Kennedy family. I can imagine how my dad grieved when JFK was assassinated, a similar feeling I had when John John Kennedy’s plane crashed into the waters.

I hope this story inspires others to make something that their children will remember them by. Life can be so unpredictable sometimes. A simple thing, like a scrapbook, may someday help our children to get to know us. It did become a bridge to the father I had barely known in this life.

Local sausage industry affected by garlic prices

The best tasting longganisa in Central Luzon now sells at P200 per kilo, up by P20 compared to last month’s prices.

The garlic-flavored delicacy produced in Calumpit, Bulacan is obviously affected by the

prevailing high prices of garlic, which soared from only P40 per kilo to P280 per kilo last month

Vendors here called on the government to regulate the price of garlic to enable them to keep the low price of their longganisa.

Dozen Chinese vessels patrol PH’s economic zoneThe Philippines is seeking an expeditious ruling by a United Nations tribunal owing to the increased Chinese activity in disputed waters as monitored by the Philippine Air Force.

At least 10 to 12 Chinese Coast Guard vessels were monitored in the West Philippine Sea lately as if stressing Beijing’s expansive claim over the South China Sea. The West Philippine Sea is part of the South China Sea within the Philippines’ 370-kilometer exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

Foreign Secretary Albert del

Rosario said China’s increased activities only fuel escalating tensions in the region. China has refused to take part in the proceedings, but the tribunal has ordered it to respond to the Philippine case by Dec. 15.

The Philippines has asked the tribunal to nullify China’s claim to almost the entire South China Sea, which Manila says encroaches on its exclusive economic zone . Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam and Taiwan, all of which also have claims in the strategic and resource-rich waterway.

Page 22: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

Sudoku Puzzles are games of patience, numbers and genius! The satisfaction of solving a challenging Sudoku Puzzle is one of the greatest accomplishments any sudoku game player can experience.

Here is the puzzle. Good luck!

Solutions for Palaisipan & Sudoku will be posted online www.FilipinoJournal.com

H o r o s c o p e

Volunteer Photographers WantedCalgary, Edmonton, Red Deer & Fort McMurray

Volunteer photographers needed. Build your portfolio or use your expertise to aid the Filipino Journal by photographing special events and concerts. Must have own equipment and transportation. Photo editing skills would be helpful but not required.

The Filipino communities are growing in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer & Fort McMurray. More & more events being passed along our way, we are looking to complement our team with volunteer photographers to cover all those events.

As with any community newspaper, we focus on local events such as community gatherings, picnics, sporting events, press conferences, dinners. Some gigs can be as quick as 15-20 minutes and other can be long, painful & boring. Our goal is to find photographers that we can assign work to on any given story. The majority of the events are during the evenings and weekend.

As far as compensation is concerned, we’re offering several options and considerations:1. promotional compensation with photo credits on all photography used in our print and online editions.3. advertising compensation with supporting photography services ad in our print edition.4. royalties on any photographs sold through our website (in development).

Interested photographers can submit their name and portfolio [email protected]

Money news has uplifting potential and business affairs seem to be in a good place. Keep some control so you'll recognize yourself afterward. Don't be afraid to blunder into a great learning experience.

Though your energy level may waver, it seems your goals are on target this period, helping you to accomplish many things. Along with this, there could be news that lifts your spirits, as a positive blend of energies hints at a small windfall.

Sensual feelings make you eager to please others, particularly as a partner's support may be important this period. Consider consolidating and reorganizing debts to avoid stress and increase earning potential. Later in the period you may find that misdirected energy could upset a friendship. Exchange words of encouragement and peace instead.

A new project may get the stamp of success, as early news concerning it seems encouraging and promising. If you have a new idea to sell, now is the time to promote it, as positive influences hint that friends and key people in your life may be willing to support you.

You may have an intuitive hunch regarding a business idea, but don't rush to complete it before checking the details. If holding back isn't possible, be prepared for changes. However, these could work in your favor. A romantic opportunity may show up in the professional or work realm.

Sociable options show up this week, with a chance you may connect with folks from the past. You might be tempted to organize a reunion with college friends or even an ex if you feel strongly enough about them. Career matters look promising so long as you're willing to take action and prioritize your goals.

This period lets you touch up any rough spots with co-workers or superiors. You could even make a major change in career direction. Don't be brash, but don't be anxious, either.

Feelings may run deep where relationships are concerned, as a powerful lineup enhances the passion and commitment in a relationship. Whether this is romantic or business oriented, the interaction could be productive.

Relationships show extra sparkle, with the potential for an exciting love adventure showing up. If things have been a bit dull in this department, you might want to sprinkle a little stardust and head out for some great entertainment.

Business or romantic relationships could be couched in mystery or mired in confusion. Be sure you know what you're getting into before you commit to anything. But passion can flourish so long as you take things one step at a time.

This period is a great time to start a bunch of small but significant changes or additions to your work routine or diet. Be good to yourself in a million little ways. Be mentally sharp and bright.

The saying that true love never did run smooth might have been spoken during this period, like the one starting this week. As it also occurs in your romance sector, you might need to take things in stride over the next three weeks or so. A passionate influence might entice you to overcome your nerves and commit to a date anyway.

PAHALANG PABABA1 Uri ng tawa 6 Cape 10 Iinit11 Salay12 Painugin ang ruleta13 Isama sa pagkakasakit14 Kardinal15 Kinanta16 Inapi19 Bigyang saysay23 Pakanais24 Matimbang27 Pang-ukol

1 Naalala2 Palayaw ng babae3 Pangalan ng babae4 Sample Abstract Language5 Hindi katulad6 Bawasan7 Samsam8 Pinawalang kabuluhan9 Batas ng Islam o ng mga Muslim11 Kinatas15 Irematse

17 Paroonan o sadyain18 Silong20 Etiketa ng de latang pagkain21 Hintayin22 Naimbita24 Uri ng pansit25 Konsorte26 The Green Hornet29 Unlapi30 Korean Airline Service: pantitik

28 Ipugay29 Isilid31 Gamit ng karpentero32 Lapa33 Pantukoy34 Uri ng kahoy

FilipinoJournal.comAll photos & articles available online!

June 201418 The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

http://www.dailysudoku.com/

very hardDaily Sudoku: Tue 24-Dec-2013

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http://www.dailysudoku.com/

Page 23: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

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June 2014 19The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

Lito Mendoza [email protected]

Lito Velasco, Bachelor of Arts in PhilosophyA homoviator, a catalyst of change. He moves in the light of his Philosophical, Political and Theological backgrounds. He loves challenges and believes he learns and improves his critical thinking from those challenges.

Lesson-Driven Perspective

The Wing Less Travelled

Indeed, one does not have to see both wings of an airplane in order to prove that it is flying. Boarding on

an airplane is quite similar to joining in an organization where everyone is not fully aware how it’s being operated or managed by the pilot. Passengers don’t always have to see the entire parts of the aircraft in order to reach the destination. The most important thing is the belief and trust that you put on the hands of the pilots. They are there in order not just to serve the passengers but to also protect everyone boarding but also their lives. As it is implied that any serious mistakes they would be committed will also be tantamount to endangering their profession’s credibility and most especially their lives as well.

Pre-Ordained Successes and Triumphs so as an invention are both products of ambition. Human beings are created to co-create as well as designed to design. It is innate in man to dream about something that he cannot actually

do. And, if he can’t, the natural tendency is to disgust and get mad at his own self. Some may even get envious and can easily jump to compare themselves to others; scarcely able to accept the fact that there are so many living beings which are more amazing than they are; things that require no physical evidence in order to exist and be perceived. That, there are people who, certainly, are better than the other. Times like these, one’s ambition seem to be shrouded with the clouds of pessimism.

One side wing of the airbus has caught the attention of a passenger while boarding on an airplane bound to the Philippines. As he pays a sheer observation, a significant realization has sparkled into his mind that says: True, One doesn’t have to see the entire parts of that aircraft in order to prove that it is flying and capable of taking him to his desired destination despite of tremendous turbulences it has been encountering.

Truly, negative feelings or pessimism as well as the turbulences are quite analogous with the obstacles that hinder to every one’s objective goal and ambition in life. Should the pilot have to slow down or stop to avoid those cloudy skies? Do the passengers have to panic when the said series of turbulences seem to be a real threat against the flight? Should anybody need to jump out of the emergency exit to save himself? Do they have to rally against the pilot? In education, does a student have to drop his studies off due to financial constraints? In politics or any social movements, should the leader give his position up when being bombarded by his constituents’ problems and demands? Should the member walk out when there seems to be conflicts between him and the leader and among the other members?

Inside the plane, we have no choice than to fasten our seat-belt as the

pilot announces the situation. Rallying against the pilot or jumping out of the emergency exit is not an immediate option of whoever is boarding the said plane. Whatever happens to the aircraft, the passengers or anybody inside it has to submit to the pilot’s authority.

As you looked around, have you seen a kind of political parties, organizations (Socio-civic and religious), educational institutions, non-government organizations, fraternities and sororities, etc., which leaders are completely and conscientiously supporting and taking care of their members and vice versa? Go and travel around the world and what you will surely bring back home are the beautiful sceneries taken through cell phone (Selfie-selfie pag may time!), yet devoid of the substantial purpose of your trip. Well, I am not throwing the blame on you, because not everybody has the same goal when doing and accomplishing certain tasks. Try to go and visit the Philippines and you will surely see the difference. Not the Philippines between now and then; but between the Philippines and Canada. There is only one slogan that you can proudly say” “There’s no place like home or I love my native land.”

Are you sure about what you said? Given a chance, would you still willing to go back and re-settle down in our mother land? The Country where the road is congested by the traffic jam and vendors; where you can see the creeks and drainages are clogged by almost every kind of garbage causing them to overflow by the two-hour rain showers. Will you still wonder why there is a flood after two-day storm? Are you still willing to leave this kind of life you are enjoying in the Countries where you are in right now? If there is a song: “I left my heart in San Francisco;” as a Filipino, will you leave your heart in the Philippines? I firmly believed, we all

love the Philippines as our Native Land, but loving the FILIPINOS can certainly be questioned. Are rampant graft and corruption, heinous crimes: merciless killing and murders (as we can watch in the Filipino TV Channels), forest denudations caused by illegal loggers, illegal gambling, human trafficking, drug pushing and using, mismanaged garbage disposals, and others considered as genuine expressions of love?

As concerned Filipinos abroad, if you really left your heart in the Philippines; then what and how can we contribute to help reshape and re-direct the Country’s destination? Does the Philippines need to completely replace its pilots? I also remember what my Korean reader has said to me: “Your Country has to have an imported experts to save it from sinking.” Let’s take the Philippine Airlines as an example, most of its pilots are non-Filipinos, yet capable of taking all the passengers to the exact destination. Just never forget, not everybody could serve as pilots as not all citizens can serve as leaders with the intention of taking the nation into its right destination. Anyways, as the saying goes, we can be good leaders by being good followers.

Again, look around you, try to evaluate the kinds of organization you are in right now. Do you consider your

leaders as your pilots whom you faithfully submit to his authority and power or you always have the good reason to contradict and oppose his projects—opposing rather than supporting? Ah, perhaps, you get jealous because you aimed to hold his position too? Why just wait for your turn my friend? Do something worthwhile for the community, people will surely notice what you do anyways. Now, as a leader, try to prove that you are maneuvering your organization or constituency to the right direction?

In the group or in the society at large, not everything is favoring on your side. Learn to know where to place yourself. In the airplane, as in your group, learn to accept the reality that a pilot cannot easily and lawfully be replaced by any passenger. The pilot can only be substituted by another licensed pilot the moment it has completely reached and landed to the port of destination. However, the pilot has to develop rapport or good working relationship and sound communication with all the plane crews as he cannot operate the plane by himself. All of them, not even a single individual, could have had the capability of seeing the entire parts of the airplane, yet they precisely have one goal. That is to reach their desired terminal point.

Page 24: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

FilipinoJournal.comAll photos & articles available online!

June 201420 The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

by Miya Villarena

A native of Quezon City, Miya Villarena is a current student at the University of Alberta. Her hobbies include drawing, writing, and playing chess, as well as keeping in touch with her Filipino heritage.

A Return to Innocence

Prior to the first chapter of the bestselling book The Lion, The Witch,

and The Wardrobe, C.S. Lewis famously writes in a letter to his goddaughter Lucy Barfield:

“Someday, you will be old enough to start reading fairytales again.”

Many of us might have heard of Lewis, probably because of the popularity of The Chronicles of Narnia. Additionally, he is also well known for his work as a Christian scholar, having written books such as Mere Christianity and The Screwtape Letters. Lewis’ endorsement of the fairytale genre might be dismissed by older and more “mature” audiences, who might claim that these are mere child’s play, or argue that these stories do not reflect the real world and should not be taken

seriously or adhered to. Yet, a return to innocence is what our generation needs.

Two months ago, during the Edmonton Poetry Festival, I presented a poem inspired by Lewis’ words, entitled “The Game of the Century”.

I am aware that not all my readers enjoy poetry. If that is the case with you, I only ask that you humour me this one time, as I share some of what I have written from my heart.

The first stanza of my poem begins with a claim:

a sure-fire way to recognize a dreamer does not

exist. Can you decipher their Rorschach smiles, those lachrymose lips?

– their enigma expositions leave you hanging –

Yes, there is no possible way to recognize a dreamer. You cannot read people like an open book. While some may claim to do so, they are simply mistaken. Until you truly communicate with an individual, you will probably never know who he or she is. I’ve met several people over the five years I’ve been in Canada, and I’ve been constantly surprised at the things they can do, the places they have been, and the interests they have. Compare that to walking up a street and judging people based on first impressions. Clearly, the former trumps the latter at any day.

The dreamer – the dreamer!

– is evasive. He lets his soul slide into Atlantic whirlpoolsdiving for abandoned Yamashita treasureThe Yamashita treasure is

my metaphor for the thrill of serendipity – a happy accident. Those who dream are the ones who can turn every situation into a blessing in disguise. While this poem pays tribute to the historical significance of the treasure, it also encourages the reader to think beyond we know – to imagine what it could have been. Some might argue this is wishful thinking. But if we remember an important part of our history through exploring what it was and what its possibilities were, how is that detrimental to society?

He builds kingdoms of glass and breaks hearts of stone the first to deliver checkmate Black-and-white dreams eight-caliber brilliancies in

segments of sixty-four.If you’re middle-aged, or

slightly over forty, then you will have lived during the Cold War. You will also have heard about chess virtuoso Bobby Fischer, the lone American in the Soviet-dominated chess world. In fact, I originally intended my poem as a tribute to the game of chess - an extension of the creative side I possess.

A disclaimer: the original “Game of the Century” is not my own.

In fact, it was a very popular game between Fischer and Donald Byrne, the former being only thirteen years old. Perhaps, what is most memorable about this game is the daring sacrifice (known as a gambit in the chess world!) of the Black Queen by Fischer, in order to consolidate a strong attack against his opponent.

Anyone can move the pieces on the chessboard, but it takes a virtuoso to play them like his or her magnum opus. You may not be Fischer, but that does not mean you cannot be the master of your own game.

Sometimes, we master the game of life so much that we step on the very thing that fueled it in the first place – our innocence.

Innocence is the prelude to the present state of humanity. To me, innocence was appreciating the fact that I could draw on walls. The fact that I was sheltered by my parents. The fact that I could pray to God at night and He would hear me. Innocence was the existence of right and wrong, the taste of chocolate. Innocence was Bach’s Air on the G String, or Tchaikovsky’s Dance of the Reed Pipes. Innocence was not naivety – it was simply the acceptance of the simplicity life offered me as a child.

The dreamer shuts herself in phantom rooms;

drinks up Stardust of summer skies.

Colours dance for herin Fabergé oceans, where

winds sail to otherworldly spheres.

When will they learn to fly without wings? Many never

find the dreamers. They cloak their scent

on breath of silver tongueDisappear into Andromeda

depths of neuron galaxies.To return to innocence

today, we cannot ignore the difficulties of life. We cannot deny the suffering in this world. Writing about this might be easy. However, I also understand that I have to live out what I preach. Like a poem, words can transport us to other worlds.

No one is above hurting other people with what they say. Clearly, those who think they are above it are the ones who freely commit the very thing they renounce. Instead of using the gift of speech for good, they utilize it for wrong, and ultimately, malicious purposes. Words can inspire people, or they can destroy people. This does not mean we should not speak the truth when it is offensive, but rather, we should not offend for the sake of obtaining pleasure at the expense of another’s shame.

In two weeks’ time, I shall become a Canadian citizen. As I do so, I hope to be able to continue to write, and share my musings with the Filipino community here in Edmonton. I hope the poem inspired all of you, and perhaps reminded some of you to relive the simple moments each day. To quote C.S. Lewis once again: “You can make anything by writing.”

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June 2014 21The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

by Gem & Lita Anis

FilipinoJournal.comLet's get social

Oman, the "land of 1,000 forts, towers and castles"

Where in the world can a friendly traffic cop write you a ticket for driving a dirty

car? Only in Muscat, the capital city of Oman in the Middle East. Believe it or not, in Oman, officially called the Sultanate of Oman, it is illegal to drive around the city in a dirty car. The fine is OMR10 - 28.32 CAD (1 Canadian dollar = 0.35 Oman rial or 1 OMR = 2.83175 CAD $). The predominantly Arab country is famous for its law requiring drivers to keep their vehicles clean. Oman is not what we expect of an another Arab country - aside from being clean with no rubbish on the roadside. Although it is still a little-visited country, Oman, rich in natural and cultural heritage, is the best-kept secret gem of the Middle East.

Tucked away on the southeastern tip of the Arabian peninsula, Oman, with an area of 212,460 sq. kms. and a population of 4,013,391 (2014 - there are about 46,000 Filipino expatriates), is bordered by the countries of United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Yemen and shares marine border with Iran and Pakistan. Occupying a strategic location at the mouth of the Persian Gulf, the Sultanate's landscape of desolate mountains (the rocky Al Hajar), vast swathes of arid deserts and the sea sits it apart from the current turbulence in the neighbouring region.

One of the most peaceful and cleanest countries on earth, Oman has blossomed into a modern state with traditional values along with its stable government and progressive economy dependent on oil and gas resources, agriculture, manufacturing, substantial trade, and the rapidly expanding tourism industry since the reigning unitary Islamic absolute monarch, Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said, came to power after overthrowing his father in a palace coup in 1970.

Through our knowledgeable travel guide, Abdul, we're able to capture the best of the sights and sound of the city of Muscat on a warm but pleasant February day. Wearing the traditional long-sleeved ankle-length collarless white gown called "disdasha" and the head gear called "muzzar" (fabric folded into a turban), Abdul is a typical Omani, friendly, always with a smile, and speaks good English. Abdul like any Omani will tell you with pride that the legendary "Sinbad, the Sailor" of the famous Arabian Nights is of Omani origin, supposedly born in Sohar, the ancient capital of Oman. The only thing missing in him is the curved dagger called the "Khangar" (reminiscent of the Batangas, Philippines "balisong"). In Oman, the "khangar" is a distinguishing feature of the mens' personality and symbol of

male elegance traditionally worn at the waist when wearing formal attire.

Must-sees are the thousand forts, towers and castles of Oman. We're able to see the capital's most prominent landmarks built in the 16th century AD, the forts of "Al Mirani" and "Al Jalali", standing sentinels at the entrance of the Muscat Bay used to be defensive bastions and look-out points for potential invading enemies.

The treasures of Omani's heritage and cultural history can be discovered at the private "Al Zubair" museum - boasting extensive collection of ancient weapons, household equipment and owner's private collection of costumes and artefacts.

In the heart of the capital stands the stunning "Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque", the only mosque in the country that is open to non-Muslims. The dome and main minaret along with the 4 flanking minarets and the 35 Swarovski crystal chanderliers are the mosque's main outstanding features. Of contemporary Islamic architecture the mosque can accommodate a total capacity of 20,000 worshippers at a time. As a visitor you are required to dress appropriately - no shorts or uncovered arms. Women are required to cover their heads and remove their shoes before entering the prayer hall.

Although not allowed inside the Palace of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, "The Alam" (means "The Flag" in Arabic), with its facade of gold and blue, we walk around to take some photos at the forecourt area. Built in the style of classic Arabic artistry, the

Al Alam Palace

Al Mirani Fort, Muscat

Gem & Lita at Oman with tour guide Abdul.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

palace evidently shows that Oman is the only oil nation so attached to traditional architecture that it forbids the construction of buildings higher than ten stories to ensure that the

city's mountain backdrop is never overshadowed by man-made structure and that all buildings must be painted white or an approved pastel colour.

You must see one of the oldest markets in Oman, "Muttrah Souq" in the port district of Muttrah with its corniche and horse-shoe shaped harbour. The souq with its aromatic smells of frankincense, spices and Arabian perfume is known for its handicrafts like silverware, daggers, traditional cloths, shoes in addition to the famous Omani sweets called "halwa" (popular sweet basically-cooked raw sugar with nuts traditionally served with the Omani coffee called "kahwa").

Trivia: Oman is home to the world's only population of non-migratory humpback whales. The country is also famous for frankincense, the aromatic sap of a tree known as "Boswellia Sacra", a tree thast grows best on the hillsides of Dhofar.

Page 26: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

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June 201422 The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

GRAND FINALSDecember 2014(date to be announced)

Monthy Competition Schedule(Every FOURTH SUNDAY of the month)Time: 7:00 pm

Feb. 23, 2014 July 27, 2014

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Apr. 27, 2014 Sep. 28, 2014

May 25, 2014 Oct. 26, 2014

June 22, 2014 Nov. 23, 2014 Monthly Winner will receive $100.00 cash

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Monthly Competition will be airedFridays and Saturdays

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OPEN MICSinging Competition

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Masama Ba’ng Magsinungaling?(On the Concept of Lying)

Karaniwan nang bukambibig ng maraming tao ang "Huy, masama’ng magsinungaling!" Halos lahat nga yata ng magulang e palaging

pinaaalalahanan ang mga anak nila na “Masama ang magsinungaling.”

However, I think that lying itself is not a bad thing, because lying may be defined simply as “the act of not telling a truth.” And not all cases of not telling a truth are bad. As how my friend and fellow thinker Adonis Fernandez put it: “If one takes on moral philosophy (and perhaps, some other disciplines), an action is usually evaluated on three considerations: nature of the act (legally, culturally, psychologically, etc.), intention of the doer (if it can be known and can be verified), and circumstances surrounding the act.

Lying’s being ‘good’ or ‘bad’ is relative to a specific legal, cultural, psychological, religious context. The intention of the doer and the circumstances surrounding the act serve either as mitigating or aggravating factors to the overall judgment of a certain action.”

Therefore…Lying Is Bad If

…the information being withheld, being undisclosed, or being lied about is malicious, illegal, or has the possibility of causing harm or danger. And not only that: Lying—being a normative action—should be better judged as not only either good or bad but also reasonable/unreasonable, justifiable/unjustifiable, or legal/illegal.

In philosophy, normative actions are actions that may be subjected to what is known as subjective morality—how things should or ought to be, how to value them, which things are good or bad, and which actions are right or wrong based on culture, religion, or laws.

Some examples of cases of lying that may be considered bad:1) A friend of yours committed a crime. He went to your house for refuge. You welcomed him. A few days after, a police officer came knocking on your door, asking if you have information about the whereabouts of that friend of yours. You said you haven’t seen him for a while. You lied. The act of lying here may be legally bad, because the information you are withholding is tantamount to breaking a specific stipulation in the law—that is, hiding or harboring a criminal or fugitive or a suspect of a crime is in itself a criminal offense. However, on a moral standpoint, your lie may be justifiable and reasonable because your intention was to protect your friend whatever it took.

2) You took money from the purse of your mother without asking permission from her or at least letting her know that you took something from her. The next day, your mom asked you if you took something off her purse. You said no. You lied. This act of lying is bad because there is malice in the information you are withholding—you took something that is not yours, which is tantamount to stealing and is, therefore, illegal. And even if the deed was too trivial for your mother to consider it a crime, what you did could still be seen as something against a perhaps universal cultural norm or standard of morality of not taking something that does not belong to you. 3) Despite your having a spouse or a girlfriend or boyfriend, you still dated or had an affair with another person. Your partner, for some reason, learned that you did; and asked you about it. You denied it. You lied. This act of lying is bad because, even if your reason may be not to cause emotional harm to your partner if you tell the truth or to protect your own self from whatever negative consequences your confession might result in, still you broke an implied agreement; and that is what makes it bad. Every time a person enters in a relationship with another, there is an implied agreement that the relationship would be exclusive only to the two of them—unless, there was a clear understanding of a so-called open relationship, in which both partners agreed that it would be okay to see other people or, in extreme cases, a threesome or polygamous relationship was the nature of the relationship they got into in the first place.

Lying Is Not Bad IfIf the purpose of the lying is to protect

oneself or another person from certain or perceived harm or danger, then this case of lying is not bad. A good example would be the following case:

A known enemy of an acquaintance of yours asked you where to find that acquaintance of yours. Even though you knew the present location of that acquaintance of yours, your answer to his inquiry was, “No, I don’t know where he is.” Clearly, you did not tell a truth. You lied. Why? Your reason was to protect that acquaintance of yours from a perceived harm or danger that he might get from that known enemy of his. Therefore, the act of lying here is not bad. Because of your reason, it may even be considered justifiable.

Sa Madaling SalitaHindi masama ang magsinungaling. Ang kasamaan nito ay depende sa dahilan kumbakit ang isang tao ay nagsisinungaling.

Or, in Simple WordsLying is simply “not telling a truth,” and not all cases of not telling a truth are bad. What we should be fostering or teaching especially to children is not “Don’t lie, and don’t ask why”; but rather, when could lying be considered good/bad, reasonable/unreasonable, justifiable/unjustifiable, and legal/illegal. Add to that, the consideration for these three important factors involved in lying: nature of the act, intention of the doer, and the circumstances surrounding the act.

(with inputs from Adonis Fernandez)

Page 27: Filipino Journal Alberta Edition June 2014

June 2014 23The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

FilipinoJournal.comLet's get social

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June 201424 The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

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