philippine independence day festivities successful despite … · · 2011-06-23knights of rizal...

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Vol. XXIX, No. 6 June 2011 http://www.filipinostar.org

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Philippine Independence Day festivitiessuccessful despite the weather

MONTREAL - A day-longcelebration of the 113th anniversaryof Philippine Independence kickedoff at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, June 12,with a flag-raising ceremony at theFAMAS Center at 4708 Van HorneAvenue. The flag-raising rite, whichwas organized by FAMAS PresidentAu Osdon and her executive boardas part of the celebration, wasattended by about 150 peopleincluding CDN/NDG Borough MayorMichael Applebaum, City CouncillorMarvin Rotrand, Miss FAMASAmbassador of Goodwill 2010Andrea Neufeld, Miss Teen FAMAS2011 Klaudeen Carbon, members ofthe Order of Knights and Ladies ofRizal, Shiners and other Filipinocommunity leaders.

“We really want to keep theFilipino spirits and tradition alive,”

said Osdon. At about 11:30 a.m., a

traditional parade organized byJames de la Paz, president of theCouncil of Canadian FilipinoAssociations of Quebec (CCFAQ),and his executive board, started fromSt. Kevin St., left to Victoria St., right toVezina St., right to Westbury St., andthen left to St. Kevin St..

"It's important for us tocelebrate our Independence Day,"said De la Paz. "It has been 113 yearssince our beloved home countrygained her hard-fought freedom fromSpain."

Joining the parade werehundreds of Filipinos, some of whomwere proudly wearing barong tagalogand terno, who eagerly walked underthe drizzles. Also joining the paradewere floats and cars representingvarious community associations andbusinesses. The festivity continued atthe Mackenzie King Park where

MONTREAL, June 10, 2011Marking the third anniverary of theGreen Plan in Côte-de-Neiges-Notre-Dame-de-Grace (CDN-NDG), MichaelApplebaum, Mayor of CDN-NDGborough and Chair of the Ville deMontréal Executive Committee,presented an annual review of greenachievements in 2010. Mr.Applebaum also released details ofthe soon-to-be created small publicgreen space at the corner of AvenueCoolbrook and Chemin Queen Mary.The Mayor also took the opportunityto look back at the recent adoption ofan urban forestry plan to preserve anddevelop CDN--NDG’s tree heritage.

The borough’s Green Planwas developed in collaboration withlocal partners and citizens and waslaunched officially in June 2008. Theplan comprises seven orientationswith the goal of accomplishing 49actions by 2012 to create anenvironmentally responsiblecommunity. To mark the Green Plan’sanniversary in June, the borough has

Third Anniversary of CDN-NDG Borough’s Green Plan:Tangible achievements keep on coming

The weather cooperated and the rain stopped for a while that allowed the parade of colors tobe held peacefully at Mackenzie King Park at Cote St-Catherine Road. Photo shows theKnights of Rizal and Ladies of Rizal with the other beauty title holders from the differentorganizations. The line up of white tents in the background provided a nice backdrop.

Mount Royal MP Irwin Cotler strongly denies saying thatFAMAS Constitution is bogus By Budz Sarmiento and W. G. Quiambao

See Page 4 Independence Day

CDN-NDG Borough Mayor Michael Applebaum held a brief press conference at the Jose RizalPark on Queen Mary Road, June 10, 2011, to announce the creation of another park similarto this one on Coolbrook and Queen Mary which is depicted in the photo above. See Page 21 Borough Green Plan

June 20112 The North American Filipino Star


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COOPERATIVE NEWS

Tel.: 514-485-7861E-Mail: [email protected] by: Filcan Publications, Inc.

Zenaida Ferry KharroubiChief Editor & Publisher

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The opinions expressed by the writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect thatof the management of the North American Filipino Star nor its editors.

With the advent of summer,the beautiful weather may motivateour members to shop at theCooperative store. They can probablyfind the time and energy to take ashort walk to our location on 5710Victoria Avenue, just about two orthree blocks from the PlamondonMetro, but only a few steps away fromthe Cote St. Catherine Metro. As anincentive, every member whopurchases $35 worth of groceries,except rice and product specials, willbe entitled to a 2% discount or get araffle ticket to the draw of a gift basketfor every 50 customers.

A common complaint frommembers is that they have come toshop but they find the store closed.This happens because they do notknow exactly the time that a volunteeris available. Please note that the storeis open everyday starting at 2:00 or3:00 p.m. and stay open until 7 p.m.on Thursdays and Fridays. OnMonday to Wednesday, it is open until5:30 p.m. We have a new volunteer onSaturday and she is available to openthe store from 12:30 to 4:00 p.m. OnSunday, Ben Bade usually comesaround 3 p.m. if his health permits. Inother words, we have no othervolunteer yet so the store maysometimes be closed when he isunable to come.

If members can get used tothe limited opening hours of the store,we would appreciate it very much aswe have limited funds and cannotafford yet to hire a part time cashier.But we hope that things will get betterif more members come and shop.

We would like to invite allmembers and prospective membersto a community pot luck picnic to be

held on Sunday, August 21 from 11:00a.m. to 4 p.m. The venue will beannnounced in our next issue.This will also serve as the 5th generalassembly to discuss the 2009-2010financial report.

Members who have changedtheir addresses and coordinates arerequested to call us at 514-733-8915or 514-485-7861 to advise us of theirnew address. We are updating ourdirectory and will be sending younotices concerning our seminars. Aminimum of 15 or more participantswill be a good attendance that willenable us to have a guest lecturerabout useful and interesting topics. Ifany member wants to know moreabout certain subjects, please let usknow by e-mail to:[email protected] or by phoneat 514-733-8915 or 514-485-7861.

Our first seminar is abouthealth and nutrition. We willannounce the exact date in our nextissue as this seminar will be held alsoin the month of August.

As there are manyassociations in the community, wewould like to stay in contact with theirpresidents and offer their memberssome special deals like volumebuying certain products that we canoffer at a special price if they buy inbigger quantities.

If you have an organizationand you can buy in bulk of 25 or moreof a product at one time, pleasecontact us, and we can quote you theprice, much lower than what you canget from a competitor.

We wish you all a happy andwonderful, safe summer.

Zenaida Kharroubi

It’s quite an exhilaratingexperience to discover so many wonderfulthings that our national hero had done inhis short life. Had he lived longer, he wouldhave done much more!

Celebrating Dr. Jose Rizal’s150th birth anniversary seems to offer usthe opportunity to examine the values, thetrue meaning of his accomplishments andhow much impact they have made uponour country, in particular, to know whetheror not we have been cured of the “socialcancer” he depicted in his novel, “Noli MeTangere” and “El Flibusterismo.”

A brief overview of commentsfrom different writers reveals a commonthread - that the “social cancer” depictedin Rizal’s works has not yet been trulycured. The “indolence” and “apathy ofmost Filipinos are still prevalent and thecorruption in all levels of political andsocial life are more deeply embedded.Moreover, poverty of the masses hasremained until now. Rizal, by hismartyrdom, removed the colonialoppressors, but the country has notcompletely gained independence fromcountless economic problems.Consequently, millions of Filipinos goabroad to look for better economicopportunities. Had there been bettermanagement of the country’s naturalresources, perhaps, there would be morejobs at home and people would not haveto go far to earn a decent living. Ironically,this phenomenon seems to parallel Rizal’ssituation for he had to go to othercountries to study and write his mostfamous works that led to the Philippinerevolution.

On the other hand,Roberto ReyesMercado, a Filipino media activist andmember of the Knights of Rizal, wrote anessay declaring Filipinos abroad as themodern day version of Dr. Rizal. He wrote

“The modern-day OverseasFilipinos can help change the world more

easily than Rizal could move for reforms,not only in his home country of thePhilippines but also in his nooks of theHispanic world. Not only is this possiblebecause of their sheer quantity, but alsobecause of the quality of their modernlives, or at least the fabric of life as foundin their adopted countries. The Filipino is,indeed, a child of the universe. TheFilipinos are probably the first true citizensof the world. ...”

Perhaps, this writer hasrecognized the potential power ofmobilizing the Filipinos abroad to be theeconomic tools of change in thePhilippines. Through their training,education and experiences that theyacquired abroad, they could help make adifference in the Philippines if they wouldbe guided by a nationalistic agenda, and ifthe flash of insight would be in their minds.

It has also been cited by variouswriters that Dr. Rizal has pre-datedMahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin LutherKing, but for some strange reasons, isprobably not as well known and only getmentioned during celebrations such asthis 150th birth anniversary. Although thelife and works of Rizal has been prescribedin the Philippine schools’ curriculum since1930, the values of his teachings have notyet been given enough focus in our dailylife. But with the presence of organizationssuch as the Knights and Ladies of Rizal,we would like to see their involvement inactivities that promote Rizal’s teachingsone of which is about developing ouryouth as the future leaders of tomorrow.This opportunity exists in our communitywhere there is a dearth of volunteers inScouting and sports activities.

In the final analysis, we would liketo say that Dr. Jose Rizal’s legacy is ourtreasure which will only be more valuableif we are willing to show our appreciationof his ideas not only in words but also indeeds.

Let’s honor Dr. Jose Rizal not onlyin words but also in deeds

Marché Coop is offering a weeklyincentive for members to shop more often

June 2011 3The North American Filipino Star


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Best wishes to the Filipino community as they celebratetheir 113th anniversary of independence.

Å l’occasion du 113ème anniversaire del’independance des Philippines, je suis heureux

d’adresser mes meilleurs voeux à l’ensemble de lacommunauté

Thomas Mulcair, M.P.Député d’Outremont310-3333 Chemin Queen-MaryMontréal, QC, H3V 1A2Tel.: 514-736-2727

A planned two-weekcelebration of Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s 150thbirth anniversary started with a galaparty by the Knights and Ladies ofRizal held on June 4, 2011 at theGanesh Party Palace in Ville St.Laurent.

The traditional solemnceremonies were officiated by SirGeorges Poblete, KGOR, RegionalCommander, assissted by Montreal

Chapter Commander, Sir REy Balansi,KCR, Sir Salvador Cabugao, KCR, SirJames de la Paz, KCR, Sir Ed de laCuadra, KCR, Sir Fred Villarino, KCRand Sir Bert Abiera, KCR.

The 10 knighted to the Order

were: Sir Julius Abad, Sir EdwinEscobia, Sir Benjamin Balaus, SirRobert Castro, Sir Ernesto Galcon, SirHector Racuya, Sir Angelito Manuel,Sir Lino Toca, Sir James Mencil, SirRamon Posadas and Sir DanySabadao.

Elevated to the Order ofKnight of Rizal, Second Degree: SirFred Baudru, KOR, Sir Dario Boco,KOR, Sir Gerry Danzil, KOR, Sir Mel

Domingo, KOR, Sir Felix de Luna,KOR, Sir Remy Ramos, KOR, and SirReggie Villamor, KOR.

Exalted to the Order ofKnights of Rizal Commander ThirdDegree: Sir James de la Paz, KCR.

Knights and Ladies of Rizal holdinvestiture ceremony

Montrealers celebrate national hero’s 150thbirthday at MacKenzie King Park

Montreal, June 19, 2011 - Thewonderful, sunny day was the settingof successful festivities celebratingthe 150th birth anniversary of thePhilippines’ national hero, Dr. Jose P.Rizal at MacKenzie King Park.Philippine flags adorned the smallsquare around the bust of Dr. Rizal.

The Knights and Ladies ofRizal were on hand to greet all theguests headed by Borough MayorMichael Applebaum, and CouncilorMarvin Rotrand who deliveredspeeches about Rizal’s stature as agreat hero not only in the Philippinesbut also in the world. Mr. Rotrandcited many of the accomplishmentsof Rizal. Mr. Salvador Cabugao, aformer honorary consul, alsodelivered a short speech.

The program consisted of thefollowing numbers: Singing of thenational anthems of the Philippinesand Canada, Invocation by AuOsdon, Panatang Makabayan, Duetby Tamara and Cory Calatin, culturaldance number by a seniors groupand Bibak, and releasing of balloonswith the colors of the Philippine flag.and flower offering to the bust of Dr.Rizal.

Lunch with lechon wasserved to everyone who attended theevent.

Sir Rey Balansi and Sir BertAbiera were assisted by all theKnights and Ladies of Rizal. Theemcee was Sir John Linden.

Councilor Marvin Rotrand speaking before the Knights and Ladies of Rizal during thecelebration of Dr. Jose Rizal’s 150th bithday. Borough Mayor Michael Applebaum (left)listens intently.

Sir James de la Paz exalted to Knight commander took his oath before Sir George Poblete,KGOR, Knights of Rizal Regional Commander. Holding the Knights of Rizal Manual, Sir Ed dela Cuadra, KCR, witnessed by Sir Rey Balansi, KCR and Sir John Linden, KCR.

June 20114


The North American Filipino Star

Filipinos enjoyed a smorgasbord ofsumptuous Philippine delicacies.Father Frank Alvarez of the MontrealFilipino Catholic Mission led the

celebration of the Eucharist on thestage provided by the City of Montreal.In the park were about 45 rented tentsof various community organizationsand business entities, namely, FilipinoAssociation of Montreal and Suburbs,Filipino Association of Nurses ofQuebec, Pamana ng Luzviminda,Pangasinan Association of Quebec,United Pilipino Seniors, DynamicAlliance of Filipino Seniors of Quebec,Bicol Association of Quebec, DosPares Karate Club, Western Union,Remax and many others.

Adding zest to the alreadyfestive atmosphere were performers

not only from the Filipino communitybut also from other communities, suchas Algeria, Chile, Ireland, Japan,Korea,Mexico, Quebec and Russia, whoshowcased their terpsichoreanabilities.

"Filipinos are a fun-loving andhospitable people," said Carlos Mora, amember of Chilean community, whowas obviously enjoying the festivity. "The costumes of the dancers are verycolourful. They're beautiful."

The event was successful inspite of the inclement weather, andpeople gamely held their groundsagainst the intermittent downpours. Forexample, Ed Vasquez, a Filipinobusinessman and one of the emcees ofthe event, proved once again the

expression "The show must go on" wastrue when, despite getting all wet, heenthusiastically continued emceeingand entertaining the crowd with his adlibs. Vasquez, together with his two co-emcees, Fely Rosales and Rose de la

Paz, did a fantastic job.The CCFAQ's guest speakers

were Applebaum, Rotrand and IrwinCotler, former Minister of Justice andre-elected Member of the Parliamentfor the Town of Mount Royal.

While waiting for his turn tospeak, Cotler was asked by BudzSarmiento of this newspaper if heindeed commented that the newFAMAS Constitution was bogus aspublished in the latest edition of theFilipino Forum. Cotler emphaticallydenied that he made such a comment,let alone FAMAS Constitutiondiscussed. On separate occasions, he

told the same thing to Osdon and De laPaz.

Also during the PhilippineIndependence Day celebration, Mr.Cotler was approached by the FilipinoStar Editor, Zenaida Kharroubi, whowanted to ask him whether or not heactually made the statementsattributed to him recently. Sheindicated to him that she would write amemo to request for his comment inwriting to which he responded throughhis assistant, Mr. Howard Liebman. Mr.Cotler wrote, “I did not make theremarks attributed to me. It has been along standing policy of mine that I donot involve myself in the internal affairsof the community.”

From Page 1 Independence Day

James de la Paz, president of the Council of Canadian Filipino Associations, and BoroughMayor Michael Applebaum, pose with the Palabuys after giving them a certificate ofappreciation for their participation in the Philippine Independence Day celebration.

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Borough Mayor Michael Applebaum and Councilor Marvin Rotrand pose with the ExecutiveBoard after the flag raising ceremony at the community center, June 12, 2011.

Seniors in Motion members performed a dance/exercise routine for the entertainment ofthe crowd that attended the Philippine Independence Day celebration.

Pamana ni Luzviminda dance troupe performing a colorful dance

Re-elected MP of the Town of Mt. Royal, Irwin Cotler poses for souvenir with BudzSarmiento, Star columnist and Zenaida Kharroubi, Filipino Star Editor

June 2011


The North American Filipino Star6

Dear EarthTalk: Coastal areas here inthe U.S. have taken a real beating inrecent years due to natural disastersthat many would argue are due tochanging climate. What’s being done tosafeguard these communities for when,say, the next Katrina hits? - -Helen Kelman, Troy, NY

Coastal regions in the U.S. are morepopular—and more heavilypopulated—than ever. But even beforethe effects of global warming started tokick in, reports the non-profit WorldResources Institute, more than half ofthe coastal ecosystems of the world—including the vast majority of America’scoastlines—were reeling from threatsincluding habitat destruction, sewageoutflows, industrial pollution and theimpacts of non-native speciesintroductions.

Recently, though, a string ofunprecedented natural disasters,including hurricanes like Katrina andtsunamis like that which devastatedJapan, has made many people re-thinkthe wisdom of moving to the coast. Andthe federal government has begun toadvocate that coastal communitiesadopt tougher building codes andzoning ordinances, but there is littlepublic officials can do to deter peoplefrom being drawn in by the lure of thecoast—even as ice caps melt, sea levelsrise and storms brew fiercer and fiercer.

Critics say the federal governmentshould be doing more to protect coastalareas which, besides being attractive tohome buyers, are among the richeststorehouses of biodiversity we have.But traditionally, such responsibilitieshave fallen to local and regionalofficials. In the case of New Orleansfollowing 2005’s disastrous hurricaneseason, the Louisiana state legislatureformed the Coastal Protection andRestoration Authority (CPRA) to protect,conserve, restore and enhance coastalwetlands, barrier shorelines and reefsso as to protect the city from theimpacts of future hurricanes. The U.S.Army Corps of Engineers is nowworking with Louisiana authorities toimplement CPRA’s master plan. Ofcourse, restoring wetlands and othernatural buffers that have beendecimated by a half century ofdevelopment and overpopulation is nosmall task. It’s unfortunate that suchplans only come to pass after a disasterof huge magnitude takes place, insteadof beforehand.

In response to such concerns, greengroups, consumer advocates, taxpayerassociations, insurance companies andother organizations have come togetheras Americans for Smart NaturalCatastrophe Policy (also known asSmarterSafer.org). Coalition members,which include the Sierra Club, LibertyMutual Group, Americans for Tax

Reform, the United ServicesAutomobile Association and others,have aligned behind shared goals ofrestoring coastal wetlands andincreasing protection for barrier islandswhile influencing local officials to makesmarter decisions about where to allowdevelopment in light of the expectedeffects of climate change and otherproblems.

The coalition applauds the vision and

work of CPRA in Louisiana, and wouldlike to see such planning take place inother U.S. coastal regions as well.Furthermore, it is critical of the federalgovernment for pumping funds into theNational Flood Insurance Program,which it says only spreads the costs ofnatural disasters around instead oftaking measures that would preventdamage in the first place. Suchapproaches, the coalition argues,“provide a perverse incentive toencourage development in risky coastalareas” and “expose taxpayers,including those who do not live in at-risk coastal areas, to significantfinancial costs.”

CONTACTS: CPRA, www.lacpra.org;S m a r t e r s a f e r . o r g ,www.smartersafer.org.

EarthTalk® is written and edited byRoddy Scheer and Doug Moss and is aregistered trademark of E - TheEnvironmental Magazine(www.emagazine.com). Sendquestions to:[email protected]. Subscribe:www.emagazine.com/subscribe. FreeTrial Issue: www.emagazine.com/trial.

EarthTalk®E - The Environmental Magazine

Dear EarthTalk: Radioactive rainrecently fell in Massachusetts, likelydue to Japan’s nuclear mess. Given thethreats of radiation, wouldn’t it bemadness now to continue with nuclearpower? How can President Obamainclude nukes as part of a “cleanenergy” agenda?

-- Bill Mason, Hartford, CT

In the wake of the Fukushima disaster inJapan, countries around the world thatwere growing more bullish on nuclear

power are now reconsidering theirfuture energy investments. Germanyhas shut down seven of its oldestnuclear reactors and is conductingsafety studies on the remainingfacilities; those that don’t make thegrade could be closed permanently.Meanwhile, in earthquake-prone Chilesome 2,000 demonstrators marchedthrough the capital to protest theirgovernment’s enthusiasm for nuclearpower. And China, the world’s fastest

growing nuclear energy developer, hassuspended the approval process on 50nuclear power plants already on thedrawing board, and begun inspectionson 13 existing plants.

But despite calls to shutter the U.S.nuclear program, President Obamaremains committed to the industrydespite his stated opposition to it pre-election. In December 2007, Obamatold reporters at a campaign stop inIowa: “Until we can make certain thatnuclear power plants are safe...I don’tthink that’s the best option,” adding thathe was much more keen on solar, wind,biodiesel and other alternative fuels.

According to investigative journalistKarl Grossman, Obama changed histune on nuclear as soon as he tookoffice, “talking about ‘safe, cleannuclear power’ and push[ing] for multi-billion dollar taxpayer subsidies for theconstruction of new nuclear plants.”Right away, Grossman says, Obamabrought in nuclear advocate StevenChu as energy secretary, and two WhiteHouse aides that had been “deeplyinvolved with…the utility operating

more nuclear power plants than anyother in the U.S., Exelon.”

Undeterred by the Japanese nucleardisaster, Obama pledged just twoweeks following the initial explosions atthe Fukushima Dai-ichi facility thatnuclear power should be revived in theU.S., as it provides “electricity withoutadding carbon dioxide to theatmosphere.” He added that herequested a comprehensive safetyreview by the Nuclear RegulatoryCommission to ensure the safety ofexisting facilities. “We’ll incorporatethose conclusions and lessons fromJapan in designing and building thenext generation of [nuclear] plants,”Obama added.

But just because nuclear energy isn’t afossil fuel doesn’t make it green, giventhe ongoing risk of radioactivity. Also,reports the non-profit Beyond Nuclear,“Nuclear power is counterproductive toefforts to address climate changeeffectively and in time…fundingdiverted to new nuclear power plantsdeprives real climate change solutions,like solar, wind and geothermal energy,of essential resources.”

Indeed, if policymakers were able todivert the hundreds of millions ofdollars in subsidies to the U.S. nuclear

industry every year to solar, wind andgeothermal developers, there is notelling how quickly we could innovateour way to sustainable non-pollutingenergy independence and put thespecter of nuclear power that muchfurther in our rearview mirror. But itlooks like as long as Obama remains inoffice, nuclear will remain a big part ofour near term energy future, damn thetorpedoes.

CONTACTS: Karl Grossman,karlgrossman.blogspot.com; NuclearRegulatory Commission, www.nrc.gov;Beyond Nuclear,www.beyondnuclear.org.

EarthTalk® is written and edited byRoddy Scheer and Doug Moss and is aregistered trademark of E - TheEnvironmental Magazine(www.emagazine.com). Sendquestions to:[email protected]. Subscribe:www.emagazine.com/subscribe. FreeTrial Issue: www.emagazine.com/trial.

The non-profit organization, Beyond Nuclear, calls nuclear power "counterproductive to efforts to address climatechange effectively and in time" and says that funding diverted to nuclear deprives real climate change solutions, likesolar, wind and geothermal energy, of essential resources. Pictured: The Three Mile Island nuclear generating station,circa 1979 near the time it suffered a partial meltdown . U.S. Department of Energy photo emi

Even before the effects of global warming started to kick in, the vast majority of America’s coastlines were reelingfrom threats including habitat destruction, sewage outflows and industrial pollution. Pictured: Flooded area ofnorthwest New Orleans and Metairie, Louisiana in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Credit: AP Photo/U.S. Coast Guard,

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By: Fely Rosales CarinoThe Quebec Association of

Canadian-Filipino Teachers (QACFT)celebrated the 15th anniversary of itsfounding on June 3, 2011 at St.Malachy Parish Hall in Clanranald,Snowdon. The evening began with aninvocation by Miss Trans Liganor,followed by the national anthems andthen President Nancy Castillo Karidistook to the podium to welcome theguests.

Mrs. Karidis and her ExecutiveBoard did a wonderful thing by

including Mrs. Natalie Pelausa’s “ATeacher’s Prayer” in the programme.It is loaded with professional andspiritual wisdom, showing the courage“to promote and protect the gift of life”.I entrust that you read the prayer in itsentirety to better understand why it iscalled A Teacher’s Prayer.

For President Karidis, her initialreluctance to accept the presidencywas overcome by the persuasion offellow educators who gave her a voteof confidence. Now on her 3rd term,the choice couldn’t have been better.Nancy is doing a terrific job as she isconvinced of a teacher’s guiding handin molding great minds.

Mr. Joseph Gonzales (VPAdministrative) wrote an article in theprogramme entitled Tuloy Lang whichhas a lot for everyone to learn. True,it’s the parents’ obligation toencourage their children to learn theWikang Filipino and to engage them ineveryday conversation to deepen theirdesire to speak Tagalog because it is abeautiful language. The Programa SaPagtuturo ng Wikang Filipino, inoperation for four years, is taught byMrs. Karidis at Simon Monet, Mrs. IreneQuizon at Pascal Baylon, Mr. JosephGonzales at des Nations, and MissPetit Chapiteau at Bedford.

The QACFT’s annualcelebration was made enjoyable bythe DJ of the evening! In addition, thedance exhibition by the GangsaCultural Association of Montreal wasan instant hit. A great mix of chacha,tango, hiphop and line dancing luredpeople onto the dance floor. Theaudience enjoyed a piano selection byKevin Majaducon, an exuberantdancing by Hanna Hamil and a vocalrendition by Joy Rosales, a teacher at

Mother Teresa Junior High School inLaval (Sir Wilfrid School Board).

The sit down dinner wasenjoyed by all. Several guests, such asMrs. Maria S., Mar & Puring Bamba,Ciony Nueva, Cesa Gladysz and ZenyKharoubi were moved to exclaim,“Wow, what service!” The beautifultable settings added to the eleganceof the evening, thanks to theDecoration Committee!

As is customary, there isalways the Presentation and Inductionof new members. This year’s new

members are: Yoland Garcia, AgnesPagala, Gleceria Ducyugan, JovelynMakin, Renelyn Marata and JacquelineCadalig. Certificates of Recognitionwere given to Miss Melanie Somejoand Miss Lea Baldelovar. The loneretiree award went to Miss DorotheaUdani. Though the audience clamoredfor more dancing, the time came to bidfarewell and Mr. Joseph Gonzalez thengave the closing remarks.

The forces behind the successof the evening are: Nancy Karidis(President), Joseph V. Gonzales (VPAdministrative), Elsa Montealegre (VPFinance), Daisy Bertiz and TransLiganor (Secretaries), Josefa Nicolasand Tina Datu Lee (Treasurers), MerlitaBallesteros (Auditor), John Linden andAl Abdon (Directors forCommunication), Gina Medina andEppie Gevero (Directors forMembership), Nenita Licyayo (Directorfor Referral and legal Documentation),Josie Fely Caro (Director forEducational Services), Melanie Somejoand Elvira Estopa (Directors for Youthand Sports), Carmen Kasayuran, ElmaBulatao and Flora de la Cruz (Directorswithout Portfolio), Carmen Caro (ExOfficio), Natalie Pelausa, Fely RosalesCarino and Procesa Gladysz(Advisers).

And one must not forget theMistress of Ceremonies, ElsaMontealegre, who did a fine job withher usual calm demeanor and BoyAbdon, on double duty as thevideographer/photographer of theevening.

QACFT celebrates 15th anniversary

Officers and some members of the Quebec Association of Canadian Filipino Teachers pose for souvenirin front of the birthday cake marking their 15th anniversary held on June 3, 2011 at St. Malachy’s hall.

During the celebration of ourIndependence Day at the MackenzieKing park last June 12, I heard anumber of Filipinos asking, "Why didwe invite the ethnic groups? This issupposed to be for Filipinos onlybecause it is our Independence Day."They are right. That's the beauty inliving in Canada. There's a freedom ofexpression as long as we know whenor where to draw the line.

But I've questions too that Ihope these people will understandand can answer. When we immigratedhere to start a new life, did theCanadian government ask,"Whyshould we allow these Filipinos inCanada? If they did, we'll still be livingin the Philippines and we'll not enjoythe many opportunities we're enjoyinghere now. When Canada Day iscelebrated on July 1, did theorganizers of the event ask,"Whyshould we invite other communities?Instead, they invite every communityto join the celebration. An example isthe Federation of Filipino-CanadianAssociations of Quebec which hasbeen participating in the Canada Daycelebration for many years. Perhaps,those who are asking why do we inviteother ethnic groups in our celebrationshould also ask why the FFCAQaccepts the invitation of the CanadaDay organizers.

For me, I don't see anythingwrong in inviting other ethnic groupsto join us in celebrating ourIndependence Day. Inviting the ethnicgroups does not mean forgetting our

unique identity as Filipinos. In fact,we're promoting it. We're inviting theother groups simply because we wantto share with each other our culture.By doing this, we learn, we grow andwe progress as a human being and asa community.

In the morning of June 12, Ithought the performers would notcome. Instead, despite the badweather, the delay and the cold, theypatiently waited and happilyperformed for us for free. Many ofthem live from Laval and Soutshorebut nobody walked out. Why? It'sbecause they're proud of their cultureand wanted to show it to us We shouldto the same thing to them.

At about 6:30 p.m., when theshow was almost over, the Korean andJapanese groups joined us in our tent.We offered them food and instead ofeating pizza, they ate lechon, noodlesand vegetable with eggplant, squashand beans. They enjoyed FlorDumandan's home-made salad.

Kim Smith, a member of theKorean group who is married to aCanadian, said,"I like your hospitality.When we have an affair in ourcommunity, I'd like to invite yourperformers."

As a Filipino, that's music tomy ear. We're being appreciated.

I know it's difficult to do butwe could always try to accept peoplefor whoever they are and open our mindto live in harmony and unity. Let's start itin our community now.

Let us open our mind and live in harmonyBy W. G. Quiambao

Gilmore College students, Jennifer Lachica and Arlene Manalo pose with theirFrench teacher, Zenaida Kharroubi for souvenir of the 113th PhilippineIndependence Day celebration, June 12, 2011, MacKenzie King Park, Montreal.

June 20118



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THANK YOU, UPS; YOU’RE ACLASS ACT – On behalf of theFAMAS Committee on Elections 2011-2016 (Comelec), I would like to thankMrs. Warly Basbacio, president of theUnited Pilipino Seniors (UPS), and theentire UPS organization for graciouslyand unselfishly yielding their August14, 2011 use of the St. Kevin’s ChurchSocial Hall so that FAMAS may have itsnext general election on that date. That’s how organizations in ourcommunity should behave; they shouldlook after each other’s needs wheneveroccasion to do so arises. Unfortunately,not all associations are like the UPS.There’s this particular organization thatalways wants to compete with its rivalgroup rather than work together for acommon cause. Last year’s version ofthe Independence Day celebration wasscuttled because its leaders refused tocooperate with their counterparts in theother group despite the good advice ofthe borough officials. The wordscooperation and sharing are never inthose pecksniffian leaders’vocabularies. What a shame!

*******FAMAS ELECTION: INDOOR VS.OUTDOOR – To make it moreimpartial, more orderly, more peaceful,more credible, cleaner, and even a lotless controversial and relatively morebusiness-like, the next FAMAS electionwill be held indoor at the St. Kevin’sChurch Social Hall rather than outdoorat the Mackenzie King Park where pastFAMAS elections were traditionallyheld.

Except for a very few“traditionalists” who resist the change,a great many FAMAS memberswelcome it with open arms. Those whoknow better and are able to see itsadvantages from the Comelec’s pointof view willingly embrace the idea andput the election ahead of the picnic thatthe resisters are hell-bent to latch on to.

The opponents of indoorelection even threaten to boycott thepoll if it is not held at Mackenzie King

Park. Methinks it’s ridiculous andmyopic to give more importance to apicnic than to an election. But what canwe do, God gave His creatures differentlevels of intelligence – some very high,some very low, and some in between. Isuppose they know which group theybelong in. But then again, maybe notbecause of their short intellectualreach.

*******FAQ REGARDING FAMASELECTION – Most frequently askedquestions answered:Q. Why does the FAMAS Committee onElections want to hold the next FAMASelection indoor rather than follow thetradition of holding it outdoor?

A. Indoor election will make the crowdmuch easier to manage and the flow oftraffic a lot less difficult to controlleading to a more credible, moreorderly, more peaceful and hassle-freeelection. And if it rains, voters don’thave to scamper for shelter anymore.

Q. FAMAS has more than 4000members, how could that many peoplefit in a relatively small place like the St.Kevin’s Church Social Hall?

A. Even if all those more than 4000members participate in the election,they will not be allowed inside thesocial hall all at once. After a voter hascast his or her vote, he or she will notbe allowed to loiter inside and has toleave the polling place immediately justlike in a civic election.

Q. May I still sign up as a registeredmember of FAMAS after the July 17,2011 Pista sa Nayon?

A. Yes, you may still sign up as aregistered member, but you won’t beeligible to vote in the next FAMASelection. The new FAMAS Constitutionand Bylaws (BL 7.2.2) states “In orderto be qualified to vote, membershipdues must be paid 30 days prior to

FAMAS election date or during Pista SaNayon of the election year, whichevercomes later.”

Q. Why can’t I sign up as regular(registered) member on Election Dayjust like in the past elections?

A. The framers of 2011 FAMASConstitution and Bylaws abolished theold practice of registering membersright on Election Day to eliminate theperception that the members werebribed to vote for particular candidates.

Q. For many years in the past picnichad always been an integral part ofevery FAMAS election, will there still bepicnic at Mackenzie King Park eventhough the next election will be heldindoor?

A. Yes, there will still be picnic atMackenzie King Park if members wouldlike to have it. Ms. Au Osdon, thecurrent president of FAMAS, will makearrangement with the CDN/NDGBorough officials for that purpose.

*******BAKIT DI NATIN SUBUKANMUNA? – Bilang chairman ngkasalukuyang FAMAS Comelec,iminungkahi ko sa kumite na gawin angeleksyon sa isang gymnasium ochurch social hall para maging masmarangal, mas kapanipaniwala, masmaayos at mas mapayapa angbotohan. Sumang-ayon namang lahatang aking mga kasapi at sa St. Kevin’sChurch Social Hall na nga gaganapinang susunod na halalan.

Di lubusang nakapagtataka,may ilang miyembro ng FAMAS anghindi sang-ayon na ganapin angeleksyon sa loob ng isang gusali.Gusto ng grupong ito na ganapin angeleksyon sa Mackenzie King Park natulad ng kinagawian sa loob ngmaraming taon. Ang idinadahilan nilaay ang piknik na nakasanayan nanilang gawin tuwing may eleksyon.Wala raw magtitiyagang bumoto kungmawawala ang piknik. At kung ipipilitdaw ng FAMAS Comelec ang kanilangkagustuhan, marami raw ang hindimagre-renew ng kanilang mgamembership o hindi na mag-aaksayang panahon para bumoto. Dahil doon, may nagpayo sa inyonglingkod na ibalik na sa Mackenzie KingPark ang eleksyon dahil kung hindi,marami raw ang magbo-boycott .

Tahasan kong sinabi sa nagpayo nahinding-hindi ko mapagbibigyan angmga nagpoprotesta dahil mas maramiang sumasang-ayon sa pagbabagokaysa hindi. Sa katunayan, matagal naraw nilang minimithi na gawin sa loobang eleksyon pero walang naglakas ngloob na baguhin ang tradisyonhanggang sa kamakailan.

*******CONSTITUTION AND ELECTIONRULES ARE TOO MUCH FORSOME — There’s grumbling in somequarter that the new FAMASConstitution and Bylaws and theFAMAS election rules, regulations andprocedures are too tough and too highfor many members’ standard.

Wala na raw maglalakas ngloob na kumandidato sa tindi ng mgahinihinging requirements oqualifications. Daig pa raw ang isangmaliit na kumpanya. Baka raw angmangyari ay wala nang magkagustongmag-officer o wala nang ma-qualifiedbilang kandidato. Naniniwala namanang iba na hindi mawawalan ngkakandidato dahil marami naman dawsa ating community ang kwalipikado. In my opinion, it’s only fitting that therequirements for officers of FAMASwere made tougher because FAMAShas grown significantly over the yearsand now owns more than half a milliondollars worth of real estate property.

*******FAMAS ELECTION: MOSTOPPORTUNE TIME FORNITPICKERS – The coming FAMASelection is the best time for those whoalways find fault in those who are inoffice to prove that they are not onlygood in words but also in actions; thatthey are convincingly better than thepeople whose abilities they are nit-picking.

Marami kasi sa atingcommunity ang mahusay langmagngangawa pero pag sila ang iyongpinagagawa, wala rin naming ibuga. Atkung tanggapin naman nila angresponsibilidad, mas palpak pa silakaysa sa tao na kanilang pinintasan ominaliit. Dada lang sila nang dada perokulang na kulang naman sa gawa.Tatanggapin ang appointment peroayaw namang magbigay ngcommitment. Hay naku! Tumigil na ngakayo. Put up or shut up!

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9

Lumipas ang labinlimang taonmula nang malunod si Sencio at ankalunos-lunos na kasaysayan ngmangingisda ay lumipas na sa alaala ngmadla. Si Caridad ay dalaga na noon.Panggagaling niya sa paaralan ay siya naang nakawaksi ng kaniyang ina sa mgagawaing pambahay at sa pag-aalaga niyasa apat na kapatid na maliliit. Ang bahaynina Luisa ay hind na ang dating pawidsapagkat sa pagsusumikap ni Pitong aynakapgpatayo ng isang bahay na tabla.

Isang gabi noon. Mag-iikasampuna ng gabi. Sa bahay nina Luisa aytahimik na ang lahat. Pati ang mga batanglabis ng ingay ay tulog na rin. Sakabayang yaon ay isang kaluluwa nalamang ang balisa at hindi pa dinadalawng antok. Sa di niya malamang sanhi, siPitong ay hindi makatulog. Tila baga maymahiwagang bagay na maangyayari sakaniya, ngunit hindi niya mabatid kungano. Ang bayan ng Abukay ay isangbayang tahimik. Wala siyangnagugunitaing nakasamaan man lamangng loob kahit isa sa bayang yaon. Lahatmandi ay kaibigan niya atkapalautangang-loob. Nanaog siya salupa sa pagbabakasakaling doon siyaabutin ng pag-aantok. Bagaman atmaulap ang langit ay nakaliliwanag dinkahit bahagya ang natatakpang buwan.Nagpaligid-ligid si Pitong sa bahay atpagkatapos ay tinungo niya angtarangkahan ng kanilang bakuran. Ngunitsi Pitong ay nahintakutan. Anino ng isangtaong nakaupo ang kaniyangnabanaagan.

“Sino ka?” ang may halong takotna tanong ni Pitong.

Ang tinanong ay hindi umiimik.“Sino ka? ang ulit ni Pitong.Ang “anino” ay saka lammang

sumagot.“Magandang gabi po. Ako’y may

nais po lamang ipagtanong. Hindi pobaga ito ang bahay ni Luisa?”

Sinagilahan si Pitong ngpagngingitngit nang marinig niya angpagsambit sa pangalan ng kaniyangasawa sa bibig ng isang hindi niya kilala, at“Luisa” lamang ang tawag. Ngunit siya aynagtimpi ng kalooban.

“May kailangan po baga kayo kayAling Luisa?” at binuksan ni Pitong nangtuluyan ang pinto. Handa siya saanumang mangyayari. Ngunit nangmapagmasdan niya nang mabuti angnagtatanong na lalaki ay putol pala angkanang bisig.

“Opo, nais kong makita si Luisa.Dito po sa pook na ito nakatayo ang bahayniya noong araw. Ngunit ngayaon ay walana. Kayo po yata ang may-aring pook naito ngayaon?” ang dugtong pa ngnagugulumihanang lalaki na hindimangkantututo sa pagtatanong.

“Ako nga po ang may-ari,” angmay halong yamot na tugon ni Pitong.

“Marahil po ay kilala ninyo ang“Luisa” kong ipinagtatanong,” ang hinalang lalaki.

“Ano po baga ang dahilan athinahanap ninyo si Luisa sa gayong orasng gabi? ang may halong galit na tanongni Pitong.

“Ginoo, huwag po kayongmagalit. Ang Luisa pong hinahanap ko ayAKING ASAWA.”

Biglang napaurong si Pitong atbinasa sa mukha ng kaniyang kausapkung may katotohanan ang sinabi.Kinabahan siya.

“Magsabi kayo, kung kayo’ybuhay na tao, o kayo ang kaluluwa niSencio,” ang nanginginig na tanong niPitong, na noo’y sinidlan na rin ng takot attila sinusukat kung sa ilang lundagmalulukso ang hagdan ng kaniyangbahay.

“Hindi ako kaluluwa. Ako at diliiba ang mangingisdang nalunod’ ngunit sakabutihang palad ay nailigtas sakamatayan ng isang sasakyangAmerikano. Ang bisig kong ito ang saksi,”at itinuro ang putol niyang bisig. “Natatlong araw akong lumutang-lutang sadagat at pagkatapos ay nakagat pa ngpating ang aking bisig. Nakarating ako saiba’t ibang lupain, ngunit sinikap ko rin angmakabalik na muli rito sa Filipinas. upangmakita ko ang mabait kong asawa atmutya kong anak. Ginoo, ituro ninyo saakin kung nasaan si Luisa at ang bunsokong anak,” at sa kulubot na pisngi siSencio ay namalisbis ang mapapait naluha.

“Dito nga po nakatira si Luisa,”ang nangangatal na tugon ni Pitong.Siya’y nakakatulog. Hindi ninyo dapatgambalain.

Halos hindi pa natatapos angsalita ni Pitong ay umakmang lumapit siSencio sa pintuan, ngunit hinadlangansiya ng malakas na bisig ni Pitong.

“Hindi maaari, hindi kayomakatutuloy. Bahay ko iyan at dapatninyong malaman na si Luisa ay akin ngasawa,” ang matigas na paliwanag niPitong.

“Asawa mo?” at biglang nandilatang mga mata ni Sencio. “A! hindi,nililinlang mo lamang ako. Minamahalako ni Luisa, at hindi siya mag-aasawa saiba.”

“Akala nang lahat ay malaon kanang patay,: ang paliwanag na muli niPitong.

“Sumulat ako sa kaniyan.”“Wala siyang tinatanggap.”“Paraanin mo ako, titingnan ko si

Luisa at ang aking anak!” At nanganyong magpupumilit si Sencio ay tinabigsiya ni Pitong nang ubos-lakas at angkahabag-habag na si Sencio aynapasubasob sa lupa.

“Imbi!” ang wika niya mataposmakabangon. “Hindi ako makakalabansa iyo sa sukatan ng lakas. Ako aymahina--ngunit kung ikaw ay may dangalay hindi mo sasamantalahin ang akingkahinaan. Walang kailangan sa akin angiyong lakas. Hindi ako natatakot,sapagkat makukuha ko ang aking asawa,hindi sa pamamagitan ng lakas, kundi sapamagitan ng matuwid. Dapat mongmalaman na nasa kamay ko ang batas.Ako ang unang asawa ni Luisa kaya’t angkasal niya sa iyo, kung kayo man aykasal, ay walang kabuluhan. Paraaninmo ako, at si Luisa ay aking asawa.”

Noon palamang naisip ni Pitongna sa harap nga pala ng batas, si Luisa ayhindi niya asawa. Ngunit sa may katwiransiya o wala ay hindi niya mahihiwalayan siLuisa, ang mabait niyang maybahay.Nangunot ang kaniyang noo at waringumiisip ng isang mainam na paraan.

“Huminahon ka, Sencio,” angpayo niya. “Kapwa tayo nasa gipit nakalagayan. Kapwa kita nagmamahal saisang babaeng karapat-dapat paglaananng lalong wagas na pag-ibig. Kapwa tayomay masusing hangad na siya aylumigaya, mabuhay nang tahimik atmabusog sa pagmamahal. Tunay,Sencio, na nasa kamay mo ang batas.Hindi ko na hihintayin pang ikay aymagharap ng sakdal sa hukuman upangmakuha mo si Luisa. Hindi kita pipigilan.Siya ay iyo ngunit alalahanin mo angkadakilaan ng iyong pag-ibig sa kaniya.Dapat mong alamin na sa kasalukuyan aymaligaya siya sa aking piling at sapaglalambing ng apat naming anak.Hindi ko kinakaila sa iyo na malimit kosiyang nakikitang nag-uukol ng mgaalaala sa iyo, ngunit ang mga alalangyaon ay mga banal na dalangingpatungkol sa kaluluwa ng isang yumao.Tunay, maaring manariwang muli angpag-ibig niya sa iyo at sa taglay niyangpagkamasunurin ay lilisanin niya angmasaya naming tahanan, ngunit Sencio,isipin mong ang mga ginhawangidinudulot ko sa kaniya at ang mgakaligayahang naibibigay ko ay hindi momaibibigay. Mahina ang iyong katawan.”

“Ako ay may naimpok na salapisamantalang ako ay nasa ibang lupain.Kaya ako hindi nakabalik agad dito saFilipinas ay pinagsikapan ko munangmakapgimpok upang mayroon akongibuhay sa aking asawa at bugtong naanak,” ang wai’y buong pagmamalakingitinugon ni Sencio.

“Nguni’t alalahanin mo angligalig na mangyayari. Ngayon si Luisa aymasaya at umiibig nang tapat sa akin.Kung siya ay iyong kukunin, maiaalis mobaga sa kaniya ang magbahagi ng kahitkaunting pag-ibig sa akin? Makatkat mobaga sa kaniyang alaala ang kaligayahannaming mag-aanak? Malilimot baganiyang ako ang sumagip sa kaniya sa laotng kaniyang pagkawakawak at siya’yiniyari ko ng isang tahanang puspos sapagmamahal? Apat na ang aming anak.Sumama man siya sa iyo ay lagi niyangtatapunan ng alaala ang ama ng apat nagutlay ng kaniyang laman. Hindi siya

magiging lubos na maligaya sa iyongpiling. Samantalang kung hindi na natinipaalam sa kaniya na ikaw ay buhay pa ayhindi na siya maliligalig, mananatili nasiya sa katahimikan at malinis ang pusoniyang mag-uukol sa kaluluwa mo ngbanal na pag-ibig. Isipin mong mabuti,Sencio. Ano ang iyong pasiya?” angtanong ni Pitong sa kausap.

“Ang aking anak?” ang tanong niSencio.

“Isa nang ganap na dalagangnagmana ng hinhin at pagkabutihin sakaniyang ina. Siya ang ilaw ngayon ngaming tahanan. Para ko rin siyang tunayna anak na galing sa aking sarilingkatawan.”

“Luisa, anak ko! Hindi ko rinkayo makikita? ang hikbi ng kaawa-awang si Sencio.

“Ano ang iyong pasiya?” angtanong ni Pitong.

“Kaibigang...?“Pitong ang aking pangalan,”

ang agaw ng kausap.“Kaibigang Pitong, magpapa-

kasakit na ako nang dahil kay Luisa.Nalaman ng Diyos na naparam nanglahat ang matatamis kong pag-asa.Mapalad kay kaysa akin. Lalayo ako,magpapakalayo-layo, at itatangis kongmag-isa ang aking pagkaapi. Hindi ko napagpipilitang makita ang aking mag-inasapagkat kung silay ay makita ko, ako aynangangambang baka manlamig angaking puso at hindi ko magagawa angisang pagpapakasakit.” Muli na namanglumuha si Sencio.

“Paalam na ako,” angpahimakas ni Sencio at hinawakan nangmahigpit sa kamay ang kausap. “Hindi kona uusigin ang iyong katahimikan,itatakwil ko na ang kapakanan ng akingsarili, ipauubaya ko sa iyo ang mahalkong si Luisa, ililibing ko na ang kauntingligayang nalalabi sa aking buhay at salikod ng lahat na ito, ay dalawangkahilingan lamang ang aking iiwan saiyo.”... (Susunod na kabanata sa Hulyo)

Bukas na Liham: Sariling Aminang tugon ni Hailey)

. Salamat sa sulat mo noong Mayo.Kalakip ng sagot ko ay ang litrato ko nakuha ni Tito Admhar. Siya ang katulong niLelong Bert natin sa mga gawain sasimbahan.

Magpadala ka rin ng litrato mo sapagsagot mo. Alam mo, mabuti na anglaging handa tayo. Nalaman ko na pulosna paligsahan ang mundo natin.

Ano ang malay natin, baka biglangmagkaroon ng pagandahan ng mgabagong silang na tulad natin. Tiyak naisasali tayo ni Lelong Bert at LelangNervy.

Nakita ko sa sinuot mo nang ihandogka sa Panginoon noong unang kaarawanmo. Poging-pogi ka sa puting tuxedo mo.

Malapit na kaming lumipat sa itaas ngtinitirhan ni Lelong. Kahit araw ng Linggoay nakakarpintero ang Lolo Butch ko.

Kuya, palampasin na natin ang tawagsa atin na mga 'pissmaker.' Matataon dinna habang karga tayo ni Lelong ay 'pooh'ang mararamdaman niya.

Nagmamahal,Hailey (a.k.l.* Pechay)

*ayon kay lelong

Karugtong na KabanataAng Mangingisda

ni Atty. N. Baens del Rosario

DR. EMILIA ESPIRITU

CHIRURGIEN DENTISTE / DENTALSURGEON

5790 Cote des Neiges Rd Suite A-024MONTREAL, QUEBECH3S 1Y9

PHONE: 514-340-8222 (4077)E-Mail: [email protected]

June 201110



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On May 28, 2011 a team of 11Wing Chun kung fu practitioners fromthe Ving Tsun Montreal kung fu school(www.vtmtl.com) competed in the2011Traditional Wushu, Wing Chun &Taiji Challenge tournament held inOttawa, Ontario; a competitionorganized and hosted by the Ontarioprovincial association Wushu Ontario

and Wushu Canada, the nationalgoverning body of the sport of Wushu(Chinese kung fu) in Canada.

VTMTL team members(Charles Filion, Dr. Jay Skolar, LarrySchtull,Debbie Resurrecion,Annabelle Alloso, Marco Deza, JeffreyEsteban,Jacquiline Uy, Aimee JoyCeliz, Tien Nguyen and JenelynAlfornon),coached by instructorsDarrell Carreon and Andy Felix,represented the city of Montreal andcompeted amongst teams fromOttawa, Toronto, Halifax and Calgary.After an entire day of competition, theVTMTL team members were allawarded bronze medals in their

respective events.It should be noted that 7 out

of the 11 members have only begantraining the Wing Chun system inFebruary, 2011 at the FAMAScommunity centre. With the supportof FAMAS' board of directors, aprogram was developed during thelatter half of 2010 to offer kung fu

classes at the centre in order toprovide martial arts and fitnessinstruction to the local Montrealcommunity.

Ving Tsun Montreal is aFilipino-owned kung fu schooloperated by Head Instructor DarrellCarreon, since its inception in 2001.

Classes are taught by WingChun instructor Andy Felix everyMonday from 6 PM to 8 PM at theFAMAS centre located at 4708 VanHorne Ave. For more informationplease call 514-887-5148.

A brief interview of a formerMontrealer, Sir George Poblete

Montreal Kung Fu team wins bronze medals inOttawa competition

Sir George Poblete arrived inCanada in 1966 and started to workfor Northern Electric, then moved onto Bechtel where he worked for 28years before retiring in 2004. His mainfunction was to oversee multi-milliondollar projects. He moved to Torontoin 1976 but while he was in Montreal,he was the president of the PhilippineAssociation of Montreal in 1968-69.which merged with the PhilippineAssociations of the Province ofQuebec (PAPQ) and gave rise to anew organization called FAMAS, thePhilippine Association of Montreal andSuburbs in 1969.

In 2010, the Rizal SupremeCouncil in Manila appointed SirGeorge R. Poblete, KGOR as theCanada Region Commander for the

RY 2010-2012. Appointed with him areSir Dr. Tom Virey, KGOR as DeputyCanada Region Commander; Sir EdPrillo, KGOR with Sir Jun Enverga,KCR as his Deputy, for the CentralCanada Region; Sir Rev. Neil Parado,KGOR, with Sir Dr. Tom Colina, KGOR,as his Deputy of the Western CanadaRegion; and Sir Hermie Hernandex,KGOR, with Sir Saulo Garganta, KCR,as his Deputy, for the Eastern CanadaRegion. The Order of the Knights ofRizal is an international organizationthe promotes the ideals and works ofRizal, and helps the Youth, Civic andCommunity activities

Sir George has recentlyserved the Supreme Council as aTrustee (Archivist) for the last twoyears, working as a Liaison toInternational Chapters. He continueshis responsibility as the editor of theRizal International Bulletin, Sir Georgewill head the Canada RegionExecutive Council and will look afterthe operations of over 20 RizalChapters in Canada, from NovaScotia, to Windsor, to Vancouver B.C..

Sir Geroge is very active inmany religious organizations. He wasselected “Volunteer of the Year” in2002 by Metro Toronto. He is married,has 6 children, and 9 grandchildren.

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Standing from left: Debbie Resurreccion,Tien Nguyen, Laurence Shtull, Jeffrey EstebanSifu-Andy Felix, Middle, left to right: Marco Deza, Aimee Joy Celiz, sitting down: JenelynAlfornon, Annabelle Alloso, Jacquiline Uy.



Ask the Video Guy

Al Abdon

By August 31, 2011, Canadian localtelevision stations in certain areas willstop broadcasting in analog and willstart broadcasting in digital.The majority of Canadians will not beaffected. If you receive your TV signalsby cable, satellite or another TVservice, the switch to digital will notaffect you. You will continue to receiveyour existing television services withthe equipment that you currently use.You will not be required to buy a newTV or other equipment, or subscribe toadditional services.

The switch to digital may affecttelevision viewers who receive localover-the-air TV stations using anoutdoor antenna or “rabbit ears”. Oncethe switch occurs, these viewers mayneed to have either a digital converterbox or a television with a digital tuner,or may want to consider receiving theirTV services from a cable, satellite orother service provider. If you decide topurchase a digital converter box,consider purchasing one with theanalog pass-through feature. Thisfeature enables the viewing of bothdigital and analog signals which maybe important for viewers that willreceive both types of signals.If you are a customer who mustprepare for these changes, yourquestions may be addressed atCanada’s Transition to DigitalTelevision (DTV).Why is Canada switching to digitaltelevision?

One of the main reasons forswitching to digital television is theneed for more Spectrum, commonlyreferred to as frequencies or airwaves.

Spectrum is used for wirelesstelephone services, emergencycommunications, etc.Digital signals use less airwave spacethan analog signals. This means thatthe freed up space can be used forother services that have a high demandfor more space. Digital technology alsoprovides better picture and sound.The effect of switching technologiesmeans that certain TV stations may bemoved to other channels on yourtelevision.If you receive local over-the-air TVstations using an outdoor antenna or“rabbit ears” for free, this change mayaffect you.If you receive your signal by cable,satellite or another TV service, theswitch to digital by local over-the-airtelevision stations will not affect you.

Areas switching to digitalsignals on August 31, 2011Local over-the-air television stationsthat fit the following criteria will berequired to make the switch on August31, 2011:-national, provincial and territorialcapital cities-areas with a population over 300,000-other areas where there is more thanone local television station -broadcasting over-the-air signalsSpecifically, the following areas will beswitching to digital TV by August 31,2011: British Columbia: Vancouver andVictoria, Alberta: Calgary, Edmonton,Lloydminster and LethbridgeSaskatchewan: Regina and SaskatoonManitoba: WinnipegOntario: Toronto (including Barrie andHamilton), London, Windsor, Kitchenerand Thunder BayQuebec: Montreal, Quebec, Trois-Rivières, Sherbrooke, Rivière-du-Loup,Saguenay and Rouyn-Noranda/Vald’Or, New Brunswick: Saint John,Moncton and FrederictonNova Scotia: Halifax, Prince EdwardIsland: Charlottetown, Newfoundlandand Labrador: St. John's, NationalCapital Region (Ottawa-Gatineau)

Over-the-air television stationsin other areas may also be switching todigital by August 31, 2011, even if theydon’t have to.

Al Abdon Hollywood Junkies(514) 264-8706

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

July 9 Filipino Nurses AssociationAnnual Family PicnicBeaver Lake Park10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

July 17 8:00 a.m. TO 5:00 p.m.Mackenzie King ParkPista sa Nayon (Town Festival)Sponsored by FAMAS

July 22-23 PHILIPPINE EMBASSY CONSULAROUTREACHCall the Embassy for renewal of

passport for an appointment slot since no walk-in applicants shall be accepted on the dates of the visit.

613-233-1121



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Lionel PEREZ

Conseiller de ville

Helen FOTOPULOS

Conseillère de ville

Michael APPLEBAUM

Président du Comité Exécutif et Maire de CDN-NDG

Marvin ROTRAND

Conseiller de ville

Susan CLARKE

Conseillère de ville

Gérald TREMBLAY

Chef d’Union Montréal et maire de Montréal

pour souhaiter ses meilleurs vœux à tous les québécois originaires des Philippines à l’occasion du 113ème anniversaire d’indépendance.

The mayor of Montréal, GÉRALD TREMBLAY and MICHAEL APPLEBAUM’s team, present their best wishes to all Quebecers originally from the Philippines on the

113th anniversary of Independence.

June 201114





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Save the shrimp juice, then discardsthe heads.Saute garlic and onion. Pour shrimpjuice and coconut milk. Bring to aboil, then add the jackfruit. Whenjackfruit is tender, add shrimps anddried fish. Cook until done. Seasonwith fish sauce according to taste.

55

Pompano withTropical Fruit

Marinade* 1/4 cup (60 ml.) olive oil

* 1/2 tablespoon (7 ml.)Worcestershire sauce

* 1/4 cup ( 60 ml.) freshlysqueezed orange juice

* 1/2 tablespoon (60 ml.) freshlysqueezed lime juice

* freshly ground black pepper* 4 6-oz. (360 grams each)

pompano fillets or any mild, white fishfillets

* 1/4 cup (60 ml.) coconut oil orother mild oil

* cooked rice

Tropical Fruit Sauce

* 2 cups ( 480 ml.) sliced tropicalfruit, using any combination ofmangoes, banana and pineapple

* 1 red or green Serrano chile,thinly sliced

* 4 tablespoon (60 ml.) unsaltedbutter

* 2 tablespoons (30 ml.) freshlysqueezed lime juice

* 1/8 teaspoon (large pinch) eachground allspice and cinnamon

* salt to taste* 4 tablespoon (60 ml.) chopped

cilantro for garnish

Read recipe through completely;assemble and prepare ingredients.

Mix marinade ingredients andmarinate fish fillets for 20 minutes.Shake off excess marinade and panfry fillets in hot coconut oil overmedium heat. Allow about 8 minutesper inch of thickness (measuringthickest part of fillet), turning filletsover half-way through cooking.

Pinangat

Pinangat is made from local “natong”leaves ( taro leaves) and “gata”(coconut milk)and most houses in Bicol Region willhave these planted nearby.Another version of this is the“tinilmok”, whose filling is slicedlukadon (young coconut meat) andsmall shrimps.

Ingredients:

* 1 kg. gabi or taro leaves* 50 grams ginger, chopped* 5 cans sardines* 2 cups vinegar* 10 grams garlic, minced* 6 cups coconut milk* 50 grams onion, chopped* salt and pepper to taste

How to cook Pinangat na Laing:

1. Stuff gabi leaves with sardinesand tie with their own vein.

2. Heat a little oil in a pan, andsaute garlic,

3. onion and ginger until goldenbrown.

4. Pour in vinegar, then add thestuffed gabi leaves.

5. Add coconut milk. Simmer untilmixture is reduced significantly.

6. Adjust taste by seasoning withsalt and pepper.

best serve with hot rice.

Green Jackfruit inCoconut Milk

Ginataang Langka Ingredients:

2 cups jackfruit (langka); sliced1/4 cup dried fish1/4 cup shrimps; shelled1 cup coconuts milk (gata)1 small onions; chopped4 cloves garlic; mincedFish sauceGinataang Langka CookingInstructions:

Remove the heads of shrimps.

Pound and mash in 1/2 cup water.

Adobong Sitaw Ingredients:

2 cups string beans; cut in 2" lengths1 cup ground pork or chicken3 tablespoons of soy sauce3 tablespoons of vinegar1/4 cup water1 onion; sliced1 tablespoon garlic; crushed

Salt and pepper to tasteCooking oilAdobong Sitaw Cooking Instructions:Sauté garlic and onion. Add pork, thencontinue sauteing with salt and pepperto taste until meat starts to render fat.Add string beans, then simmer until halfcooked. Add water, vinegar, and soysauce. Continue cooking until stringbeans are cooked.

Philippine Cuisine



The deployment of aPhilippine Navy ship to the WestPhilippine Sea (South China Sea)was intended to assert Manila’ssovereignty over islands that itclaims there, not to stir up Beijing,Malacañang said on Monday.

According to Secretary RickyCarandang of the PresidentialCommunications Developmentand Strategic Planning Office, theRajah Humabon was sent tosecure Scarborough Shoal, a partof the Philippines.

Senate President Juan PonceEnrile late last week warned thatdeploying the Humabon beyondthe shoal would agitate China.

The deployment of the RajahHumabon, the Navy’s flagship,came in the wake of repeatedincursions of Chinese vessels intothe Philippines’ 200-mile exclusiveeconomic zone, or EEZ.

“We are not agitating [China]. Ido not view this as an agitationand I don’t think the Chinesewould view it as an agitation either.What we are doing is really just theexercise of any sovereign countrywithin its own territorial waters. Ithink there is nothing wrong in theway we are trying to communicateand explain the steps undertakenby our government regarding thisissue,” Carandang told reporters.

“The international communityis just one audience, but I thinkthe people would like to knowwhat the government is doingabout the West Philippine Sea[claim]. I don’t think that(deployment) is bad,” he said.

Carandang added that anydecision to convene the NationalSecurity Council as advised byEnrile would have to be made bythe National Security Cluster.

But for Rep. Todoro Casiño ofBayan Muna party-list, sendingthe over half-a-century-oldHumabon to the ScarboroughShoal was an antic that wouldtend to escalate, rather than cooldown, tensions in the Spratlys, agroup of islands in the SouthChina Sea claimed in part or inwhole also by the Philippines,China, Brunei Darussalam,Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam.

“The Aquino government, or atleast the President and some ofhis officials, seems intent onescalating the dispute over theSpratlys.

First they (President BenignoAquino 3rd and the officials) areinsisting in bringing in the UnitedStates into the fray. Now they areprovoking a military engagementby deploying a full-fledged

warship. This is not a video game,Mr. President. There’s no restartbutton here, so better be careful,”Casiño said.

President Aquino is said to befond of video games.

A guessing game, Singapore

apparently believed, was beingplayed by Beijing in the SpratlyIslands.

Also on Monday, it urgedChina to be more open about theextent of its territorial claims to theislands, saying that Beijing’sambiguity was causinginternational concern.

The foreign ministry said thatwhile Singapore had no claims ofits own, the city-state was a majortrading nation whose interestscould be affected by issues

relating to freedom of navigationin the area.

The tensions between Chinaand other rival claimants to the

strategically vital South ChinaSea—home to two potentially oil-rich archipelagos, the Paracels

and Spratlys—escalated in recentweeks.

The Philippines and Vietnam inparticular have expressed alarm atwhat they say are increasinglyaggressive actions by Beijing inthe disputed waters, but Chinahas insisted that it is committed toresolving the issue peacefully.

Singapore’s statement wasissued after a Chinesesurveillance vessel, the Haixun 31,docked in the island-state afterpassing through the West

Philippine Sea.“We . . . think it is in China’s

own interests to clarify its claims inthe SCS (South China Sea) withmore precision as the currentambiguity as to their extent hascaused serious concerns in theinternational maritimecommunity,” the Singaporestatement said.

“Singapore is not a claimantstate and takes no position on themerits or otherwise of the variousclaims in the SCS,” it added.

“But as a major trading nation,Singapore has a critical interest inanything affecting freedom ofnavigation in all international sealanes, including those in theSCS,” the statement said.

With Malacañang permission,House Speaker FelicianoBelmonte Jr. will meet with China’slegislative leaders to discuss thedisputed Spratly Islands withthem.

“In the company of five fellowcongressmen, I will meet with mycounterparts in Beijing legislativebranch. We will have a meetingwith the chairman of the standingcommittee on legislature todiscuss various topics. I think itwill be unavoidable to talk aboutthe Spratlys,” Belmonte of theFourth District of Quezon City,said during a station interview atdzRH in Pasay City (MetroManila).

The former three-term mayorof Quezon City added that hisChina trip has the blessings ofPresident Aquino and ForeignAffairs Secretary Alberto DelRosario.

When asked what the stand ofManila would be if the Spratlyissue cropped up, Belmonte saidthat he was aware of the basis ofthe Philippine claim.

“I will tell them that what weare after is to keep watch over ourterritory. The maritime 200 milesextend from our shores,” theSpeaker added.

Under the United NationsConvention on the Law of the Sea,an exclusive economic zone is apart of a particular sea over whicha state has special rights toexploration and use of marineresources.

The zone stretches from theseaward edge of the state’sterritorial sea out to 200 nauticalmiles from its coast.

Belmonte said that the Beijingtrip had long been scheduled andthe Congress recess gave him theopportunity to take it. a

RP Navy flagship deployed to assert sovereignty

Imperial reach. Map shows the extent of China’s claim in the South China Sea.

Flying the flag. The Philippine Navy’s biggest warship, BRP Rajah Humabon, is aWorld War II frigate that had been rescued from the salvage yard

June 201116



FILIPINO STARS H O W B I Z G O S S I P

There is a simple reason why ErikSantos remains single: He fearsheartaches.

One of the country’s premiereballadeers, he is considered by manyto be a “love or babe magnet” withhis moving and soothing voice. Yetthe singer opts to shy away fromromance because he doesn’t wanthis heart broken. According to Erik,he may have a powerful voice, but heis very weak when it comes toheartaches.

He admitted that after hisrelationship with comedian Rufa MaeQuinto, he had another girlfriend whowas not from showbiz. The girl, hesaid, was from a prominent andconservative Chinese family.Unfortunately, her standing in societywas partly the reason of their break-up.

Howeve painful his lastrelationship was, Erik believes that hehas moved on and recovered fromhis most recent heartache. And hemakes it clear: He is not looking for anew girlfriend right now.

“I’m enjoying my single life. Ihave so many things on my mind andit helps I don’t have a girlfriend toworry about. Sometimes, being in arelationship adds to the pressure,” heexplained.

He also cleared rumorscirculating that he and Rufa Mae hadgotten back together. With a busywork schedule, he feels it won’t befair on any girl to be with him at themoment.

On the top of Erik’s list ofcommitments is his musical theaterdebut as the Prince in Disney’s TheLittle Mermaid by AtlantisProductions, as directed by BobbyGarcia and Chari Arespacochaga.

Why he was chosen for the muchcoveted role, Garcia related, “I haveknown Erik since he started hiscareer. He is one of the most hard

working and passionate performers Iknow. He loves what he does and hehas an incredible singing voice.”

Erik is not just known in theconcert scene as the Pop Prince buthe is also called a “reluctant actor.”For years he has had numerousoffers to act in various TV and movieprojects but declined all of them.

So what changed his mind thistime?

“I know that I would sacrificeother jobs but I didn’t want to pass ona project like The Little Mermaid. Thisis a different avenue for me and it’smy first time to do theater and I’mreally excited,” he replied.

He added that he already has agood working relationship withGarcia since he had been his directorfor his Araneta Coliseum concerts. Sowhen he was offered the part, heimmediately “embraced theopportunity.”

Erik shared that he has alreadybeen reading the script even ifrehearsals will still begin in a fewmonths. He is also taking voicelessons, particularly for his musicaltheater debut. Compared toperforming in concerts, he said thathe needs to prepare his voice evenmore for the stage.

“This is not like pop where youjust keep on singing. The placementsare different in musicals and I have tohave a clear diction for the audience;that’s why I need to prepare,” relatedErik.

He has also seen the differentmusicals that Atlantis Productionspreviously staged including Next toNormal, Avenue Q and Spelling Beeamong others, to help him with TheLittle Mermaid.

While waiting for the big debut,Erik is also looking forward toreleasing a new album this year and aEuropean tour. a

Pop Prince Erik Santos saysno to heartaches

Erik Santos during a radio staion launch on June 12, 2011

Not all winners or champions ofsinging contests or reality shows onTV become famous afterwards. Takefor example singer Gerald Santoswho was champion of the secondPinoy Pop Superstar on GMA 7. Toput it bluntly, his career never flourishin the four years he spent with thenetwork. As a result, he terminatedhis contract before it expired in 2010.

“It was a career move because Ifelt they didn’t have any vision withregards to my career. They didn’thave concrete plans for me,” Geraldlamented.

He admitted that he also felt hurtover the network’s treatment becausehe felt his career was stagnating. Hesaid he was constricted and limited inwhat he could do.

“I don’t want to be plastic. I didn’tlike what was happening to me andmy career before I terminated mycontract. But right now I have nobitterness with GMA 7. What’simportant for me right now is that I’mhappy and I can do whatever I wantwith my career,” explained Gerald.

His past gigs with GMA 7included being a regular in the nowdefunct Sunday variety show SOPRules, guest appearances inMagpakailanman, I Luv New York,

QTV’s Pop Star Kids, and his debutalbum under GMA Records.

“Right now I’m happy where I am.I transferred to TV5 with a per showcontract. I also get to try new thingsout,” he related.

Gerald, under his new managerRommel Ramilo, said that they will beexploring his talent in acting. In theworks are possible acting gigs inTV5’s Untold Stories and StarConfessions. There are also possibleindie movie projects lined-up.

“As an artist I really want to grow.I want to show the many sides ofGerald Santos. Hopefully with TV 5 Iget to show my other side,” relatedGerald.

One such venue to showcase thedifferent sides of Gerald Santos is theMusic Museum where he will stagehis eighth major concert entitledMajor Move on June 18. Hisrepertoire will consist of pop, R&B,and standard and jazz songs. He willalso be dancing on stage as well asimpersonating celebrities, the latter, atalent he just discovered.

“It was Nanay Cristy Fermin andTV 5 that encouraged me to doimpersonations. I’m happy that myfans are enjoying this side of me as aperformer,” he remarked.

He stressed though thatimpersonating is just a “side dish” tohis shows and not something hewould consider doing full time. Someof the popular celebrities heimpersonates are fellow MartinNievera, Gary Valenciano, OgieAlcasid, Janno Gibbs, Mark Bautistaand Christian Bautista.

Joining him in his concert areJoseph “The Artist” Valerio (UltimateTalentadong Pinoy 2011), EulaCaballero (Star Factor champion),The Knights Band, Dance Squad, TheUP Concert Chorus and WencyCornejo. a

Why Gerald Santos is singing ahappy tune

Gerald Santos

Independent film actressMercedes Cabral was rushed to thehospital from her “Hiyas” taping inTanay, Rizal after suffering ananaphylactic shock early Wednesdaymorning.

According to a PEP Alert postedon June 16, 6 p.m., Cabral was lyingon a rock for a scene when shereportedly felt a sting on her back.Immediately, Cabral experiencedallergic reactions that caused her to

have difficulty in breathing and herface to swell.

Cabral’s handler and other “Hiyas”staff brought the actress to a hospitalright away. Though Cabralexperienced other symptoms(collapsing, convulsing and low bloodpressure according to PEP), furtherdamage was prevented as she wasimmediately put on oxygen supportand injected with steroids andepinephrine.

Cabral, a popular actress in theindependent film circle, isremembered most for her roles in theBrillante Mendoza films "Serbis" (2008)and "Kinatay" (2009). In both films,Cabral was paired with her nowrumored suitor, Coco Martin. Voted"Most Beautiful Actress" at the 2008Cannes Film Festival, Cabral is set tostar in the Cinemalaya 2011 entry,"Ligo Na U, Lapit Na Me" alongsideEdgar Allan Guzman. a

Mercedes escapes fatal allergicreaction

Mercedes Cabral



Ruffa Gutierrez has finally toldher kids about the situation betweenher and their father, Yilmaz Bektas.Now separated from her Turkishhusband, Ruffa knows she isn’t theonly one affected by the failedrelationship.

Although the host-actressadmitted in a taped interview on "TheBuzz," June 19, that her daughtersLorin Gabriella, 7, and Venice, 6, gotemotional when they finally learnedabout the separation, she thoughtboth youngsters showed remarkableresilience. “Kahit na masakit sakanila, matalino sila… naintindihannila,” she said about her children.

“I would rather that they hear itfrom me,” she explained. “I toldthem, in-explain ko sa kanila, bakithindi kami makakarating ng Istanbul,bakit kami hiwalay ng daddy nila. So

I told them in a way na, kung anongcapacity ng brain nila as children,they would understand.”

The report pointed out thatdespite this, Ruffa is trying tomaintain a sense of normalcy in thelives of her children, especially withthe help of other father figuresaround them—from their grandfather,their uncles and even her friends.“So hopefully, ma-fill up kahit konti‘yung void na ‘yon,” she noted.

But Ruffa is not one to sever theties between her kids and herestranged husband. “Nagte-text nalang ang daddy nila paminsan-misan. Pero I think it’s better thatway, naco-confuse sila. I just made itclear to the kids that never kongpinagkait ang time ng daddy nila sakanila. Anytime he's free to visit here.Anytime, kung gusto nilang makitasiya, anytime welcome si Yilmaz ditosa Pilipinas,” she said.

As for reports that there havebeen men who are vying for heraffections—including an unnamedBrazilian—Ruffa only said, “As ofnow, you know, mga kaibigan kolang sila. And I tried going out ongroup dates but like I said, hindimuna ako nagse-seryoso sa bagayna ‘yan.”

“Alam mo hindi ko wini-wish paeh, na may kasama ako habangbuhay. Ngayon, hindi ko pa priority‘yon. Honestly, ang priority kongayon, trabaho,” she said. a

Ruffa admits to kids the realsituation with their dad

her Ruffa Gutierez and daughters

Actor Sam Milby apparently hadthe hots for KC Concepcion.

Actress Toni Gonzaga revealedso in the June 11 episode of “TheBuzz,” saying that she learned ofMilby’s affection for Concepcion in2008, when she and Milby weredoing “My Big Love.”

“Nasa Tatsulok kami sa Timog[for dinner], tapos itong si Sam,walang tigil sa cellphone niya,” sherelated.

“So, tinanong ko siya, 'Bakitpanay ngiti mo?' [And I found out] itwas KC Concepcion [with whom hewas texting].”

Gonzaga said she asked Milbyright there and then, why, if he is soenamored with Concepcion, hasn'the even tried to court her. Milbysupposedly replied: “I want to.”

Milby, who was guest appearingon the episode to promote his newmovie with Concepcion, "Foreverand a Day," was clearly embarrassedwith Gonzaga’s disclosure.

He blurted, “You’resuch…please don’t believe Toni.”

But his protestation wasdrowned by shrieks from studioaudiences.

Gonzaga didn’t stop there.“Sinabi niya din noon ideal girl niyasi KC,” she said, eliciting even louderscreams from the audience.

Apparently, Gonzaga was only

keen to help Milby sell the movie, asthe latter was seemingly not toogood in playing that part.

When asked by “The Buzz” hostBoy Abunda if he fell in love againwith Concepcion while making themovie--obviously a leading question-- Milby simply stammered, “KC and Ihave a great friendship and that’swhat it’s been and that’s what it’llalways be.”

Concepcion-- probably to theconsternation of the movie’s drumbeaters-- was equally as dry, even asshe was made to create a bit ofimaginary tension between herboyfriend, Piolo Pascual, and Milbyduring the same "The Buzz" episode.

She denied that she had to askPascual’s permission to do themovie with Milby.

“Hindi po, wala naman po needna magpaalam sa kanya, same withhim when it comes to work.”

She added, “I think, may respetonaman po si Sam kay PJ in thesense na wala po talagangmangyayari at all, kahit po sabihingbetween two people na puwede.”

Seemingly to avert furtherdisaster, “The Buzz” asked "Foreverand a Day" director Cathy Garcia-Molina to add some spice to theproceedings by asking her to joinher two stars onstage.

Alas, it seemed that the directorhad been having problems with theduo being only too "friendly" witheach other.

“Actually naging problem kotalaga na magkaibigan sila," saidshe. "Even Sam was telling me andKC that he was having problems kasisobra silang magkaibigan and theycould not look at each other as ifthey could be lovers. It was aproblem... yes, nahirapan ako.” a

Toni Gonzaga on Sam Milby:'He wanted to court KC'

KC Concepcion & Sam Milby

Jennylyn Mercado has accusedher former boyfriend, actor DennisTrillo, of verbally and physicallyhurting her, resulting in their break-up in March of this year.

In her tell-all interview with"YES!" magazine, Mercado narratedhow she was physically mishandledby Trillo on the night of March 5 atthe actor’s condo unit inMandaluyong City.

She said what started out as a pettyargument developed into a full-blown fight wherein Trillo had

hurled expletives and insults at her.According to the actress, Trillorepeatedly called her stupid.

She said when she slappedhim, Trillo grabbed her and pulledher toward the sliding glass doorand then threw her downstairs. Shesaid her hip hit the floor but theactor did not attempt to help her.

She said she left the place afterthe incident.

When sought for reaction, Trillosent this message to "Yes!"magazine: "I choose not to speakbecause there is nothing to speakabout. The truth is my relationshipwith Jen just didn't work out."

Days following their break-up,Mercado took a special interest inJapanese martial art jujitsu. Manysuspect that this is because of theincident with Trillo.

In her earlier interview, Mercadoadmitted she is learning jujitsu forself-defense.

She met Luis Manzano, whomshe is now dating, in one of herclasses. a

- Showbiz continued on page 18

Jennylyn accuses Trillo of abuse

Jennylyn Mercado & Dennis Trillo

Actress Angel Locsin turneddown the idea to do an actingproject with rumored boyfriend,Azkals' heartthrob PhilYounghusband.

"Sa movie? I don't think so kasi

hindi naman artista si Phil. Footballplayer talaga siya. Kung sa iba pangproject, pag-iisipan," Locsin said

The actress made the statementin response to a viewer's question ifshe would be willing to work withYounghusband.

In a previous interview,Younghusband admitted that he isexclusively dating Locsin.

Locsin said she and the footballstar are still in the "getting to knoweach other" stage.

"Ayoko kasing magmadalitalaga. Gusto kong i-enjoy ito. I'm 26na. Ayokong maglaro. Gusto kongmaging sigurado. Ayokongmasaktan. So, careful lang ako,"Locsin said.

Younghusband started to wooLocsin when he asked the actress toa Valentine's Day date this year viaTwitter a

Angel won't work with Phil

Angel Locsin

June 201118



Having survived the recentunfortunate “Jan-Jan incident,” WillieRevillame has mellowed a lot and hasbecome more “restrained” in hisrevived show on TV5, now called WilTime Big Time (formerly WillingWillie), which now features moreprizes and new games.

That’s one good news.The other is that Willie has just

gifted himself with a private planewhich he bought for a staggeringP200M from Jorge Consunji. Now hecan fly to his rest house in Tagaytaywith his friends anytime he wants to.Knowing Willie, I won’t be surprised ifhe takes up a course in aeronauticsso he himself can pilot his plane (toobig to land on his yacht).

That’s not only Willie’s latestacquisition. He has also bought thevacant lot beside the Wil Tower he’sbuilding right across from ABS-CBN.The tower will have a mall, cinemas,office and residential units, and astudio.

He has also bought (to the tuneof tens of millions) hectares ofproperty also in Tagaytay from theMadrigals and he plans to build aresort on it.

A Funfare VDPA (Very DeepPenetration Agent) reported thatyesterday he saw Willie in AyalaAlabang (where his good friend Aga

Muhlach lives with his family) tocheck Don Enrique Zobel’s housewhich sprawls over a one-hectare lotwith a huge garden and, take note, ahelipad (perfect for Willie’s privateplane). The asking price? Only$10M!!!

Incidentally, what Willie’sdetractors and harsh critics (thatsprouted like mushrooms at theheight of the “Jan-Jan incident”)conveniently ignored (or perhapsthey didn’t know) was Willie’sconcern for poor children for whomhe’s putting up a P50M foundation,not to mention how he helped 40OFWs come home, shelling outP500,000 from his own purse for theirtickets. That was in 2009 when ABS-CBN boss Charo Santos-Concio andABS-CBN exec Raffy Lopez brought

Willie to entertain TFC (The FilipinoChannel) subscribers. The OFWswere abused by their employers anddidn’t have money for airfare.

Obviously, Willie has forgotten(and forgiven) his, as I said,detractors and harshest critics.Recently, he accepted an invitation tobe the special guest at the familygathering of one of them. Pres.Noynoy Aquino was the first prioritybut since he couldn’t make it, Willie(the second priority) showed up.(Third priority was Manny Pacquiao).a

Willie gifts self with P200Mprivate plane

Pound-for-pound king and eightdivision world champion MannyPacquiao revealed in jest whatinspired him to go into boxing.

“Sa mama ko [ako na-inspiremag-boxing], nung bino-boxing[niya] 'yung papa ko noon,” thePacman told Korina Sanchez in anexclusive interview with him and hisfather Rosalio aired on “TV Patrol” onJune 17.

“Hindi, joke lang,” he quicklyadded as Rosalio sat beside him,smiled.

Asked if his father used to be aboxer like him, Manny said, “Hindisiya marunong sumuntok.”

“Yung father ko, mahiyain talagasiya. Tahimik lang, nasa isang lugarlang,” he explained.

According to the report, Rosalioand Dionesia – Manny’s now-famousmom – parted ways when Manny wasjust 12 years old. In a May 2009 reportby a local newspaper, Rosalio wassaid to be Dionesia’s second

husband.Manny and his five siblings (two

from Dionesia’s first marriage; four,including Manny, with Rosalio) wereleft under Mommy D’s care sincethen.

For his part, however, Rosaliosaid he never forgot about hischildren despite the distance.

“Kahit wala ako, lagi ko silanginiisip. Pangarap ko na makasamasila ulit,” the Pacdad was quoted assaying in his local dialect by the “TVPatrol” report.

“Kahit lumayo ako, hindi namanako nakakalimot. Kinakamusta ko silalagi,” said he.

Like he did for his mother, Manny

had also given his father his ownhouse, car and a trip to Las Vegas towatch one of his fights.

In related news, Pacman landedon second place in CNN SportsIllustrated’s “20 Highest EarningInternational Athletes” for 2011. Lastyear, Manny was in fifth place.

With $52,500,000 estimated totalworth of earnings, Manny comes aftertennis pro Roger Federrer ofSwitzerland ($52,781,940).

Pacquiao, the only boxer in thisyear’s list, is followed in the top five bySpain’s Fernando Alonzo (autoracing, $45,000,000), Argentina’sLionel Messi (soccer, $43,800,000)and Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo(soccer, $38,800,000). The rest of thelist can be viewed atsportsillustrated.cnn.com.

CNN Sports Illustrated based theathletes’ estimated total earnings ontheir respective “salary, bonuses,endorsement income andappearance fees.”a

Pacquiao reveals boxing inspiration, named second highest paidnon-American athlete

Showbiz Gossip Continued from p.17

Manny Pacquiao (L) on his father, Rosalio: 'Mahiyain talaga siya'

Angelica Panganiban flat outdenies that she paid for hernomination as Best Actress in theupcoming 27th Star Awards. "Kuripotakong tao, hindi ako magbabayad,"said she in an interview with PEPpublished on June 17.

Panganiban, who started heracting career at age six, asserts it'snot her style to pay for any sort ofrecognition. "Simula po noong nag-artista ako, never akong nagbayad[para sa award],” the 24-year oldintimated in the same interview.

"Hindi ko gustong lokohin angsarili ko para may makita akongtrophy araw-araw.”

Explaining how the rumormight’ve started, Panganibansurmised that it must’ve hadsomething to do with a gift she gaveto a gaggle of reporters who came tovisit her.

"Kasi, 'yong isang reporter, nag-birthday siya, parang weeks ago nag-

birthday. Parang invited ako and thenhindi ako nakapunta. So binigyan kosiya ng gift check,” she said.

“Mga worth P15,000 'yong giftcheck na binigay ko. Kasi, maramisilang reporters na nagpunta sadressing room ko. Ayaw ko namingmambastos na siya lang angbibigyan ko, so sa kanya ko langinabot. Sabi ko, 'O, maghati-hati nalang kayo.’ After two weeks, 'yon na'yong naging intriga."

Panganiban couldn’t believe thather generosity would be construed asa pay-off of sorts. She doesn't eventhink it's worth enough in exchangefor a title.

"I don't think gano'n sila ka-cheap, na for P5,000 na gift check,ibibigay nila sa akin ang trophy. It'ssad naman kung may mga gano'ngtao na puwede mong bayaran paralang mabigyan ka ng karangalan."

As for those who started therumor, Panganiban said, "Kung gustotalaga nila, sa kanila na lang [thetrophy]. Okay lang talaga."

Panganiban’s Star Awardsnomination is for her performance inthe movie, “Here Comes the Bride.”She will be going up against LornaTolentino, Bea Alonzo, Ai-Ai delasAlas, Anne Curtis, Lovi Poe and DawnZulueta.

Panganiban already won twicethis year as Best Comedy Actress—atthe Enpress Golden Screen Awardsand the Guillermo Box-Office Awards-- for the same film role.

The 27th Star Awards will be heldon June 21. a

Angelica refutes allegations shepaid for her Star Awards nomination



President Benigno Aquino III stillenjoys the trust and approval of a bigmajority of Filipinos but his surveyratings continue their downward trend,a recent survey by Pulse Asia revealedon Wednesday.

In a survey conducted by theprivate pollster from May 21 to June 4,Aquino registered a 71 percent trustrating— slightly lower than his 75percent rating last March.

Aquino’s trust rating declined themost in the Visayas, where his scorewent down to 70 percent from 84percent in March.

Metro Manila respondents alsogave the President a lower rating of 56percent— 13 percentage points downfrom his previous rating of 69 percent.

The President’s trust ratings alsodipped among members of ClassesABC (63 percent) and D (69 percent)but his score among the members ofClass E remained unchanged at 78percent.

The same poll showed thatAquino’s approval rating remainedalmost unchanged at 71 percentcompared to his 74 percent scorethree months ago.

Pulse Asia also noted publicindecision to the President’sperformance became “morepronounced" over the past threemonths, especially in the Visayas,Metro Manila and members of theupper and middle classes.

The Pulse Asia survey resultscame out a day after another pollster,

Social Weather Stations (SWS),released figures from its June 3 to 6poll showing a five-point decline inAquino’s net satisfaction rating.

Presidential spokesperson EdwinLacierda has downplayed the drop inAquino’s rating, saying that the level ofdissatisfaction remained steadynationwide.

The Pulse Asia survey wasconducted nationwide among 1,200adults. It has a margin of error of plus-or-minus three percent.

High scores for fighting crime,corruption

The survey also showed how theAquino administration receivedmajority approval ratings in six out of11 national issues presented by PulseAsia among its respondents.

The government received thehighest approval scores in fightingcriminality (60 percent), enforcing thelaw to all (57 percent) and increasingpeace in the country (57 percent).

Majority of the respondents alsothought that the Aquino presidencyfared well in fighting graft andcorruption (56 percent), creating morejobs (53 percent) and increasing thepay of workers (51 percent).

The administration meanwhileobtained the lowest approval ratingsin poverty reduction (40 percent) andin controlling inflation (39 percent).

The survey was conducted at thetime when fuel prices were steadilyincreasing. a

Aquino’s trust rating still high but continues to dip

President Benigno Aquino 3rd signs one of three new laws at Malacañang onTuesday, June 21 2011, among them Republic Act 10150 that will boost the SocialReform Agenda of the government.

Maguindanao, the southernprovince where at least 57 peoplewere summarily murdered in2009, will remain under a state ofemergency indefinitely, aMalacañang official announcedon Monday.

Secretary Ricky Carandang ofthe Presidential CommunicationsDevelopment and StrategicPlanning Office made theannouncement on the day theSupreme Court upheld then-President Gloria Arroyo’sdecision to put the provinces ofMaguindanao, Sultan Kudaratand Cotabato City under a stateof emergency in the wake of theMaguindanao massacre—regarded as the most heinouselection-related violence inPhilippine history.

Witnesses claimed that theMaguindano massacre wasperpetrated by the powerfulAmpatuan political clan.

Prior to the bloodbath, thecasualties had beenaccompanying former BuluanVice Mayor EsmaelMangudadatu in filing hiscandidacy for governor againstthe Ampatuan clan that ruledimpoverished Maguindanaoprovince for the last 20 years.

“Based on our consultationwith the local governments inARMM (Autonomous Region in

Muslim Mindanao) and inMaguindanao, they prefer [tohave] Maguindanao under a stateof emergency, at least for now.There are still some armedgroups roaming. The situation isnot completely under control,”Carandang told a pressconference.

He, however, assured thatconsultations are ongoing andthat the state of emergencywould be lifted at the right time.

“The Palace would lift thestate of emergency once theLGUs (local government units)determine that such lifting isneeded,” Carandang said.

Security concerns inMaguindanao seemed to haveprompted President BenignoAquino 3rd to push for thepostponement of the ARMM pollsscheduled for August 8this year.

Maguindanao belongs to theautonomous region.

The postponement of theARMM polls, President Aquinosaid, will pave the way for theinstitution of reforms in theautonomous region.

The President, however, hadnot signed the bill deferring thescheduled elections into law evenif both Houses of Congressalready approved it. a

State of emergency inMaguindanao stays indefinitely

Unlikely Couples

Deposed President Joseph Estrada (top) serenades former first lady and now IlocosNorte Rep. Imelda Marcos with the song Always You during the 40th weddinganniversary of Jun and Senator Miriam Santiago. At left, Vice President JejomarBinay escorts former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Arroyo. Above right,Senator Antonio Trillanes IV arrives alone.


Personality profile of the month

For those who are not familiarwith hip-hop dance, it is a dance thatincludes a wide range of styles -breaking, locking and hopping - and itrequires skills and physical fitness.

Seems difficult?Not for 14-year old Tommy

Nuguid, who has been performing iteffortless for about seven years.Nuguid, a resident of Pierrefonds andsecond year high school student atEcole Secondaire Felix Leclerc , wasenrolled by his parents when he wasjust seven at 8 Count Dance Complexin 2004. The lessons were an hour aweek. He stopped taking lessons acouple of years ago because theyinterfered with his other activities.Recently he resumed his danceclasses.

“I really enjoy hip-hopdancing” Nuguid said. "It's fun. Theowner of the school and myclassmates encourage me to resumethe classes.`

Nuguid and his 8 Count DanceComplex` classmates auditioned for agroup called Pack Boys . Because ofhis talent for dancing, he passed theaudition with flying colors. He is theonly Filipino member of the group thatconsists of young boys from 14 to 18years old. In the beginning, the PackBoys were performing at birthday andschool parties. The experience gavethem confidence and exposures. Itsbreakthrough dance was atPlattsburgh (Mountain Lake program)that was televised last November.

Last November 11, the PackBoys competed at the CanadianNational hip-hip-hop dance contest inMontreal . It placed second, beating 30teams all over Canada. As a result, thegroup, together with the first prizewinner, will represent Canada at the

World Championships hip-hop dancecompetition in July in Las Vegas.

Nuguid's talent is notoverlooked. Last year, he received aCertificate of Recognition from EcoleSecondaire Felix Leclerc forchoreographing a dance in itsprogram.

Before joining the Pack Boys,Nuguid was involved in variousactivities such as: Pioneer member ofBoys Scout (Laging Handa); player ofFCAWI basketball team where hereceived Best Defence award; playerof PBAM team where he received MVPof his group.

"I want to travel the wholeworld like the dancers I see ontelevision," said Nuguid.

Nuguid is still young. With hisenthusiasm and determination, he willachieve his goal.

Nuguid's family and friendswish him good luck in Las Vegas.

Nugid and his group areraising funds for their trip to Las Vegas.Any donation is appreciated. Call (514)620-3831.

Nuguid's group all set to compete in a hip-hop dance contest in Las VegasBy W. G. Quiambao


The April 20th party of theFilipino emakers/caregivers was calledBalik-tanaw or reminiscence. It was anopportune time for them to share thegood and even bad times theyexperienced in the '70s. Incidentally,their struggles bring back memories to

me too. Whenever I hear their poignantstories, I can not help thinking howlucky I was when I came here in 1969.

I had a family that I could counton during my early days. In threemonths, I was given a working permitalthough I came here as a tourist. And I

immediately found a white collar jobbecause the only snag for the newly-arrived Filipinos looking for anemployment then was lack of Canadianexperience. French language was just arequirement, unlike today that it is amust. In fact, once I gained experience,I would change job almost every sixmonths whenever I got bored with myjob. Finding a job was easy. And therewas no requirement to work 24 monthswithin three years before a holder oftemporary working permit was given alanded immigrant visa.

On the other hand, manyFilipino caregivers who came here in the

'70s or '80s and still coming hardly knowanybody. They endure not only the longand painful separation from theirfamilies, especially young children, butalso the abuses and exploitation of theiremployers because of their temporaryvisa as caregivers. It is sad.

The sacrifices and enduranceof the caregivers are two of the reasonswhy I respect and admire hem. Ofcourse, a few of them are lucky to findkind and compassionate employers. Iknow a caregiver whose brother andsister were sponsored by her employer.But the realty is that many are stillsubject to abuses and exploitation oftheir employers. For example, morethan a decade ago, two well-knownFilipino community leaders tried to helpa Filipina caregiver who was sexuallymolested by her employer.Unfortunately, they could not doanything to help her. The caregiverrefused to report the employer and file acomplaint because of shame and fearthat her chance of obtaining animmigrant visa would be jeopardized.And who could forget Laila Elumbra?She was the caregiver who was on theverge of being deported after she wasdiagnosed with porphyria, a debilitatingdisease, Thanks to the support of thecommunity. Elumbra was allowed tostay here and was able to pay herastronomical medical bills.

But things are a bit differentnow because the government ischanging some of its policies' Two ofthe significant changes announced byMinister of Citizenship, Immigration andMulticulturalism Jason Kenney last yearwere: 1) Live-in caregivers now havefour years to complete the two yearsnecessary to gain a landed status asopposed to three years and 2)Employers are now responsible forpaying for their caregivers' healthinsurance at no cost to the caregiversuntil he/she becomes eligible for theprovincial health coverage.

Even in the community, the

attitude of some Filipinos towards thecaregivers is changing. I recall anincident when I went to the FAMAScentre a few years ago. While there, Icasually mentioned to the wife of theincumbent FAMAS president then thatmy blood pressure seemed to be high.She told me to come back the followingday and she would check it. When Iinnocently asked if she were a nurse,she retorted, "Anong akala mo,caregiver din ako (What do you think, Iam also a caregiver?). Obviously, shethought I mistook her for a caregiver andshe did not appreciate it. Although manycaregivers are college graduates, someof our kababayans look down uponthem because their job is menial. .

Now, the caregivers are slowlygetting the recognition they deserve.The recent reunion of thehomemakers/caregivers was not only toreminisce the good days and rekindlethe old friendships but also to remind usof their contributions to the communityand society. To remind us of theimportance of caregivers who haveenriched and touched the lives of manyfamilies and children while working ashomemakers/caregivers .

Me? I learned from them thatwhenever I'm down, all I've to do is lookaround and I'll find out that there stillpeople less fortunate than I am. That's avaluable lesson they taught me.

First Person

Tribute to the CaregiversBy W. G. Quiambao

Live-in caregivers in a French class taught by Paul Perez

This old photo may have been taken in the early 90’s showing members of the United PilipinoHomemakers Club. These young looking members may still recognize themselves. The only male guestlooks like Bert Abiera known to have been an ardent supporter of the group.



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endeavored to present a review of theactions achieved in the previouscalendar year.

“We remain as committed asever to making CDN-NDG an environ-mentally responsible borough,” MayorApplebaum stated. “Since theadoption of the Green Plan, there hasbeen one tangible achievement afteranother, as shown by our latest 2010report. And it all continues in 2011.This can be seen in the expansion ofthe BIXI network into Notre-Dame-de-Grace in April, the adoption of ourUrban Forestry Plan in May, and ourproject to create a small public greenspace soon at the intersection ofCoolbrook and Queen Mary.”2010 Highlights

Among highlights in the 2010report (January 1 to December 31),construction of the Notre-Dame-de-Grace Sports Center received LEEDsilver certification, thousands of largerolling recycling bins were distributedto the public and the Direction destravaux publics (public worksdepartment) continued to lean towardenergy-efficient vehicles whenrenewing its vehicle and machineryfleet. In addition, solar-poweredstreetlights which stock up on energyduring the day and turn onautomatically at night, were installed intwo parks and a community garden.And four solar-powered garbage binswere installed along Chemin de laCôte-des-Neiges. Their solar-poweredgarbage compacting technologyenables them to hold about five timesas much waste as ordinary bins. Theborough also planted a total of 475trees in 2010. The full report of 2010achievements can be found on theborough’s website:ville.montreal.qc.ca/cdd-ndg/Servicesfor residents/Environment).2011 actions

In April 2011, the BIXI systemreached into the NDG neighborhood.The four new stations are located in

front of the Vendome and Villa-Mariametro stations (with the latter BIXIstation temporarily relocated to thecorner of Monkland/Marcil andSherbrooke/Marlowe intersections inthe preceding months, boroughmanagement had worked closely withBIXI - Societe de velo en libre- serviceto continue the network’s westwardexpansion along Queen Mary Roadand into NDG. The westwardexpansion also allowed for five newstations in the western part of Cote desNeiges.

In May, after many months’work, the borough adopted its Plan deforestière urbaine (Urban ForestryPlan) making it the second Montrealborough after Saint-Laurent, to giveitself this tool for preserving anddeveloping its arboreal heritage. TheUrban Forestry Plan includes aninventory of public trees, an actionplan for future trees, and variousrecommendations on the maintenanceof young or mature trees as well as onplaning protection and raising publicawareness. The Urban Forestry Plan isteh result of teamwork spanning manymonths, with the participation of theborough’s Direction del’aménagement urbain (urbanplanning department) and Directiondes travaux publics, Nature-ActionQuébec and forestry engineer LucNadeau. The final version of teh planmay be consulted in its entirety on theborough’s website:ville.montreal.qc.ca/cdn-ndg.

Over the next few weeks, theborough will be converting a paved lotit owns into a small public greenspace. This 167-square-metre lot islocated at the corner of AvenueCoolbrook and Chemin Queen Mary.The borough will be planting shrubsand perennials there and installingurban furniture. About $60,000 will beinvested in this project.

“In this spot, we want to createa small green space similar to JoseRizal Park,” Councilor Marvin Rotrandexplained. “Developing a strategy for

From Page 1 Borough Green Planacquiring and promoting small greenspaces is among the actions targetedby our Green Plan. This also favours areduction in heat islands in CDN-NDG.Over the next few years, we will beworkingto increase the number ofthese small green spaces all acrossthe borough.”

Finally, the borough is alsoplanning to replace the heating systemat the Trenholme Sports Centre,making it less energy-consuming.Brand new drinking fountains will alsobe installed in Confederation Park andDarlington Park in upcoming weeks.These new modern fountains willencourage peopel to minimize the useof bottled water and improve thecleanliness of the Parks.

Information: François Puchin, CommunicationsOfficer, 514-868-3483

“And every time he faced acrossroad[s], from when he was ayoung man up to the time he was calledto make the supreme sacrifice of givingup his life for the country, he neverwavered from treading the straight path.”

Calamba Mayor Joaquin Chipeco Jr.said the city decided to build the newstatue after realizing that Rizal’shometown did not have a monumentthat equalled his stature.

There are grand monuments to Rizaloutside the Philippines, including theone in Madrid that was inauguratedduring his death anniversary in 1996, inFujian province in China, where hisgreat-great grandfather Domingo Lamcohailed from, and in Wilhemsfeld inGermany, where he trained to be an eyesurgeon.

The President earlier led the wreath-laying ceremony at the Rizal Shrinebefore touring an exhibit on the variousmonuments dedicated to Rizal.

At the Rizal monument in Luneta,Manila, thousands of people braved therain to offer roses to the national hero, ashis monument—previously restricted tohigh officials and visiting diplomats—was open to the public for the first time.

“We are giving our fellow Filipinos arare, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity... togo near the monument to offer flowers toour national hero,” said Juliet Villegas,executive director of the National ParksDevelopment Committee.

The ceremonies marking Rizal’s150th birthday began with a flag-raisingand wreath-laying ceremony led byExecutive Secretary Pacquito Ochoa.

Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim,Education Secretary Armin Luistro,Metro Manila Development AuthorityChairman Francis Tolentino, and ManilaMayor Alfredo Lim were on hand to markthe occasion.

Thousands of red, white and pinkroses decorated the shrine and twotowering cakes—one of those was an8.5-foot replica of the Rizal monument—were offered to mark the national hero’sbirthday. Joyce Pangco Pañares andMacon Ramos-Araneta. a

President Benigno Aquino III on Sundayunveiled Jose Rizal’s newest statuehere—at 13.4 meters the tallest to bededicated to the national hero—as areminder of his martyrdom and to inspireFilipinos to tread the straight path.

Mr. Aquino, who ran and won on his“matuwid na landas” or the straight pathplatform, said Rizal was not born asuperhero but became one because ofthe decisions he made and the actionshe took.

“He could have chosen to turn ablind eye [to] the problems besetting thecountry,” the President said duringcelebrations here to mark Rizal’s 150thbirthday. His speech was brieflyinterrupted by five protesters whoshouted there had been no reforms inhis administration.

“He could have allowed himself togo with the system even if he knew it waswrong and pretend to be friends with thepriests during his time,” Mr. Aquino said.

Rizal’s hometownunveils giant statueof native son


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Delivery & ShippingDelivery service - $5 fee in CDN-NDGareas only on Tuesdays & SundaysShipping by postal service for prepaidorders only. Call us for information at514-733-8915 or 514-485-7861

Wanted: Volunteers who are Coop members,who can spare 3-4 hours, any day of the week, tobe trained in being the Coop’s cashier of the day.

Members only discount Members whopurchase a minimum cash purchase of $35, willbe entitled to a 2% discount. Not applicable onproduct specials and rice.

Entrance to the Marché Coop is to go up thestairs and enter the restaurant, then down thebasement where the store is located.

5710 Victoria Avenue, Montreal, QC H3W 3H2(in the basement of Cuisine de Manille Restaurant)

Website: marchecoop.com E-Mail: [email protected]

5450, chemin de la Côte-des-NeigesSuite 51, Montreal, QC H3T 1Y6514-485-7861

Education raises the bar butlowers the barriers to a

rewarding career.

Arlene Manalo, a Gilmore student and our newest member volunteer, is scanning a grocery item while Magnolia Camat, one of the fiveoriginal founders of the Filipino Solidarity Cooperative, looks on. Arlene will be working with Magnolia and Aida on Saturdays startingat 12:30 until 4 p.m. but Magnolia will be keeping the store open until 5 if necessary and if she is available.

Lily’s Peanut Butter$3.99

Green Mongo Beans, 2 lbs $2.69

Baby Lima Beans, 2 lbs$1.99

Thai Gold Shrimps, w/head on600 g $6.45

Professional Training provided forNursing Aide, Office Assistant, Medical &Legal Secretary, Accounting Technician,

Certified International TradeProfessional and Second Languages

Nursing Aide/PAB/PSW International Trade (C.I.T.P.)

philippine independence day festivities successful despite … · · 2011-06-23knights of rizal...

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