Vol. XXXI No.11 November 2013 http://www.filipinostar.org Most violent storm hits Philippines

By Michael Davantes during the onslaught. Ships were Meanwhile, typhoon victims from the strength so that relief efforts were only Last November 8, the tossed inland, and many were swept southernmost part of Eastern Samar focused in this area. strongest typhoon of the year Haiyan, out to sea. Thousands were killed, and and the city of Iloilo felt neglected as Almost a week after the event, known locally as Yolanda, hit Eastern 11 million lives were affected. news reports claimed that only Leyte's Visayas – with winds 3.5 times stronger Government forces reasserted control capital bore the brunt of the typhoon's See Page 4 Most violent storm than that of Hurricane Katrina. Within of Tacloban. The battered city became hours, much of Samar island and its a major base for humanitarian aid in neighbour Leyte – the two regions the other islands along with Cebu. Prime Minister meets hardest hit by Haiyan – were However, the snail-paced efforts of the devastated as corrugated iron roofs National Government in providing relief were torn off buildings, broken trees and rehabilitation caused anger Filipinos in Montreal slammed into shops, and cars were among survivors and acrimony flung against houses. Big waves from a between government and critics in storm surge swamped coastal areas social media and mass media.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper met with Filipino-Canadians in Montreal on November 15th to assure them of the continued support of the Canadian Government to the victims of Haiyan. Shown with him from left: Salvador Cabugao, Rev. Fr. Frank Alvarez, and Michelle Allana whose parents were reported missing but found safe from the typhoon later. (Photo du CPM: par Jill Thompson) By Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Philippine Community Center. I received Montreal - November 15, 2013 a last minute telephone call at around At first no one knew that the Prime Minister of Canada was going to visit the See Page 4 PM visit www.filipinostar.org 2 The North American Filipino Star November 2013 Minister Alexander addresses can contribute to a culture of innovation Photos and video of the Minister’s trip and commercialization in Canada. to the Philippines as well as of the community and industry leaders at “Government plays an Government of Canada’s humanitarian important role in supporting and assistance and relief efforts are Startup Canada Day on the Hill empowering entrepreneurs, who are available: http://www.forcesimages.ca Ottawa, November 21, 2013 permanent residency and access to a the backbone of Canada’s prosperity,” — Building on the momentum of the wide range of business partners. said Alexander. “Our government will — 30 — launch of Canada’s Start-Up Visa Through this bold new program continue our efforts to attract the best (SUV) Program earlier this year, Canada hopes to become a and brightest immigrant entrepreneurs, Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration destination of choice for start-up who have the potential to build For more information, media should Minister Chris Alexander spoke to innovators, which will help Canada innovative companies that can create contact: members of Canada’s startup remain competitive in the global jobs for Canadians and compete on a community and industry leaders today economy. global scale.” Margaux Stastny, Director of as part of Startup Canada Day on the The SUV is a five-year pilot Communications Hill. program and is limited to no more than Minister Paradis Office of the Minister of International Development and Minister for La “Innovation and entrepre- 2,750 applications per year. It is Extends Typhoon neurship drives economic growth and designed to attract high quality and Francophonie helps to secure future prosperity for all select entrepreneurs who can advance Haiyan Relief Fund Telephone: 819-953-6238 Canadians,” said Alexander. the Government’s innovation agenda. Email: In addition to standard admissibility [email protected] “Immigration is vital to innovation and OTTAWA - The Honourable requirements, SUV applicants must to meeting Canada’s economic and Christian Paradis, Minister of meet certain program eligibility Media Relations Office labour market needs.” International Development and Minister criteria.00000 Foreign Affairs, Trade and Startup Canada Day on the Hill for La Francophonie, concluded a trip In October, Minister Alexander Development Canada (DFATD) is organized by Startup Canada, which to the Philippines where he witnessed announced that the program was Telephone: 819-995-1874 represents more than 55,000 the devastation caused by Typhoon being expanded to include a new Email: [email protected] entrepreneurs, over 400 partner Haiyan first-hand. He also met with stream for business incubators. The Follow us on Twitter: @DFATDCanada organizations and over 250 volunteers. local government and United Nations Business Incubator stream Earlier this year, Citizenship officials, as well as with international complements existing venture capital and Immigration Canada launched the and Canadian humanitarian and angel investor streams by MINISTER OF NATIONAL SUV Program. The SUV Program is the organizations working to respond to attracting early-stage and high growth DEFENCE PROVIDES first of its kind in the world, providing needs in some of the hardest-hit businesses, and entrepreneurs who UPDATE ON sought-after entrepreneurs with regions of the country. The magnitude of the CANADA’S ASSISTANCE destruction across many regions of the IN THE PHILIPPINES Marché Coop Philippines is nearly impossible to OTTAWA - The Honourable comprehend," said Minister Paradis. “I Rob Nicholson, P.C., Q.C., M.P. for The Filipino Solidarity Cooperative, Inc. am truly proud to have witnessed the Niagara Falls and Minister of National 5320-A Queen Mary Road compassion and dedication shown by Defence, and the Honourable Joe Canadian humanitarian workers who Oliver, Minister of Natural Resources, (between Decarie & Coolbrook) have travelled to the Philippines to help today met with members of the Toronto Tel: 514-485-7861 those in the worst of circumstances.” Filipino business community to update Minister Paradis visited some E-Mail: filipinocoop.com them on the Canada’s relief efforts in of the hardest-hit areas of the country. the Philippines, in response to the Website: marchecoop.com In Ormoc, he toured the Canadian Red devastation caused by Typhoon Cross field hospital, which is working Haiyan. Business Hours closely with local hospital staff and “Our Government is deeply other emergency health care providers concerned by the impact of Typhoon to ensure that more than 100,000 Monday - 1:00 - 9:00 p.m. Haiyan and has joined international people have access to a wide variety of Tuesday - 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. efforts to provide support and essential health services, including Wed. to Friday - 1:00 - 6:00 p.m. assistance to humanitarian relief and surgery, medicine, maternal and child Saturday - 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. stabilization efforts in the Philippines,” care, and outpatient services. The Sunday - 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. said Minister Nicholson. “An Minister also met with members of interdepartmental assessment team is Canada’s Disaster Assistance now on the ground in Manila, where Members can make appointment to Response Team (DART), which has shop outside these hours. Phone they are meeting with Philippine been deployed to Roxas City to Government officials and international your orders and you can pick them contribute to relief efforts by providing up by appointment as well. representatives to determine where clean water, medical assistance and Canada’s help is most needed.” logistical support. The Interdepartmental Delivery service available for Cote “From the onset of this tragedy, des Neiges & NDG areas between Strategic Support Team (ISST), which Canada has played a leadership role in is the Canadian humanitarian 6:00-8:00 p.m. ( $5.00 delivery providing humanitarian assistance service fee.) assessment team, is led by the where it is needed most," added Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade Minister Paradis. "As we approach and Development (DFATD) and We sell phone cards & Christmas, I encourage Canadians to includes representatives from the gift certificates. keep donating to registered Canadian Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). charities, and our government will “In an effort to close the vast match eligible donations, dollar-for- geographic distance and speed up its dollar, right up to December 23, 2013.” assistance to those in need, the CAF While in the Philippines, have already deployed elements of the Minister Paradis also met with local Disaster Assistance Response Team government and United Nations (DART). This group brings the officials, as well as with Canadian non- necessary equipment to quickly governmental and international establish communications and set the humanitarian organizations, to discuss conditions to start operating as soon as the ongoing challenges in delivering the main contingent arrives on the humanitarian assistance on the ground,” added Minister Nicholson. ground. The typhoon and subsequent Beginning Wednesday, storm surges have severely damaged November 13, the main body of the local infrastructure, including roads, ports, and airports, which is impeding access to many areas. SeePage 14 Update on Philippines

www.filipinostar.org November 2013 The North American Filipino Star 3 Quebec, Passing Bill 60 Will Send a Editorial Shameful Message Can lessons learned from Yolanda make Posted: 11/19/2013 12:12 pm these principles are under threat. governments more responsive and the world By Irwin Cotler and Michael Milech Moreover, rather than empirically When Quebec Minister Bernard demonstrate the need for such a law, at large responsible for climate change? Drainville tabled Bill 60 -- formerly known Minister Drainville has unapologetically “The “Filipino people not only of climate change. It has been often as the "Charter of Values" -- he said one declared that he has no idea of how many urgently need a more responsive mentioned that many big countries have thing that is undeniably true: The bill, people in the province's public sector government, they may just need more not been able to adopt a strong policy to should it pass, will serve to define the would be affected. The Quebec from the international community than a combat the effects of global warming. Quebec in which we want to live together. Association of Health and Social Service short-lived burst of sympathy and With the glaring results of a deadly and Regrettably, by enacting this law, Quebec Institutions has reported that none of its donations.” This concluding statement powerful hurricane, it is worrisome that we would be sending very clear -- and very members have ever had any problem from an essay written by a doctoral do not seem to have any comprehensive shameful -- signals about the kind of with staff who wear religious apparel, and student from the University of Sydney, measures in place to reverse the trend of society we wish to be. the Bouchard-Taylor Commission found - Adele Webb, has pointed out two areas environmental degradation. Furthermore, The Minister argues that the bill - - after examining 900 briefs and 13 where the world’s attention should be it is surprising to read that Canada has - which, among other things, bans academic studies -- that the supposed focused on - a united effort on responding been repeatedly singled out among the religious accessories in the public sector crisis of religious accommodation was to the issue of global warming and being close to 200 member countries of the UN -- will enhance "cohesion," and has said largely a "crisis of perception." While no prepared to respond to calamities in a for obstructing progress and not doing that not wearing a religious symbol is a right is absolute, essential liberties such timely manner. It was obvious that the enough to address climate change at sign of respect for others, the logical as freedom of religion and expression Philippine government failed to respond home. Its generous response to the corollary being that wearing one is must not be curtailed without quickly and was criticized by many calamity is remarkable but this may not be somehow a sign of disrespect. His demonstrable justification; in this case, reporters and the victims themselves. In enough if it is not followed by a decisive unmistakable message is that people get such justification is demonstrably absent. fact, International reporters were the political will to act on measures needed to along better when they suppress their Finally, while this Bill may ultimately be first ones to arrive and survey the prevent more violent storms from individuality. defeated in the National Assembly or damages while it was only on November happening again. Needless to say, no Yet, even if widespread overturned by the courts, the entire 12, when President Aquino landed on amount of preparations will be enough if adherence to some blueprint of a debate over the values charter has Tacloban, Leyte where he was interviewed nothing is done to find solutions to the prototypical Quebecer were a noble goal already contributed to an unfortunate by Christiane Amanpout of CNN who said: problems of climate change. -- which it is decidedly not -- societies that emerging definition of Quebec as a place “Mr. President, you talked about We have seen the severity of have sought to impose conformity have where respectable people can agree to moral responsibility from the world,” she many weather related disasters in other not generally been pleasant places to disagree about whether to defend told the President. “Let me ask you about places for the past few years. Therefore it live. Indeed, the only societies with minority rights. Yet, choosing whether to your responsibility as president. Clearly, I behooves us to repeat the battle cry of our greater problems than those that value tolerate expressions of diversity - with all don’t know whether you agree, but the Philippine delegate to the UN conference religious diversity are those that do not. of diversity's vagaries and complications - way you respond and your government in Warsaw, Poland lately, when he said: It had been known for months - is not a simple matter of opinion. responds to this terrible devastation will “What my country is going through as a that the Parti Québécois was planning to Respect for pluralism is a fundamental probably define your presidency,” result of this extreme climate event is tell public employees what they can and characteristic of a free society, and it must Amanpour said. “Many have talked about madness. The climate crisis is madness,” cannot wear, on the flimsy pretext that the be championed by the government, not how much reform you have done, how Yeb Sano, lead negotiator for the religious neutrality of the state cannot be reduced to a question of personal much work you’ve done on corruption. Philippines, told the opening session of achieved without religiously neutering its preference -- or worse, vilified as a threat. But many people might end up judging the UN climate summit. “We cannot sit employees. However, the actual Indeed, Quebec should define itself as a you on how your government has and stay helpless staring at this legislation goes even further, even place where religious pluralism is responded. What do you say to that?” she international climate stalemate. It is now establishing rules for lunchtime at cherished, where diversity and harmony asked. To this question, the President had time to take action. We need an daycare outlawing food-related practices are not considered mutually exclusive, no answer. emergency climate pathway.” that reinforce religious precepts. It is and where fundamental freedoms are As the Philippines is very We hope to see our world unclear whether this would bar a Hindu defended with passion. As a matter of vulnerable to climate change because of leaders get together and may they heed toddler from packing a religiously- fact, Quebec already defines itself as its location, and storms are predicted to the warning of scientists predicting the motivated vegetarian sandwich, or simply such, and has since 1975 in our Charter become much stronger, it is obvious that worst to come if nothing is done about require daycare workers to intervene of Human Rights and Freedoms. It is a we should all be concerned about the lack climate change. should a child attempt to say a prayer definition that Quebecers can be proud of concerted action to resolve the issues Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi before eating; either way, the state has no of, unlike that of Bill 60, which should be place in the lunchboxes of the nation. discarded -- definitively. Bill 60 would define Quebec as a place where fundamental freedoms can Mabuhay Montreal TV be infringed due not to necessity, but to soon to be on air inclination. Even the bill's supporters Friday at 7 p.m. generally concede that there is no urgency to implement it, citing the Videotron 16/616HD, principles they aim to protect -- such as Tel.: 514-485-7861 Bellnet Fibe 216/1216 HD 5320-A Queen Mary Road religious neutrality -- without showing that Montreal, Quebec H3X 1T7 E-Mail: [email protected] Published by: Filcan Publications, Inc. Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi North American Filipino Star Chief Editor & Publisher W.G. Quiambao Subscription Community News Al Abdon Sam Kevin Alberto Baens Santos News & Layout Editor Name: ______Tel.______Michael Davantes Bernardo Sarmiento Address: ______Columnists Bert Abiera Founder Opinion Editorial ______The opinions expressed by the writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect that of the management of the North American Filipino Star nor its editors. E-Mail______No. of issues ____ 12 = $30 Date:______24 = $50

www.filipinostar.org 4 The North American Filipino Star November 2013 search for New Male Supermodel. He's From Page 1 - Most violent storm now in Manila homeless - with nothing left except the clothes on his back. He the dead still lie on the streets. Many also got separated from his 3 siblings. residents were driven to desperation Many blamed lack of with food and clean water in short leadership, corruption, “too much supply and without any government politicking” in dealing with the situation, presence at all. Survivors scavenged for that caused delay in the shipping of whatever they could find. Professional goods and the poor execution of relief looters were ambushing the helpless operations. According to Kris Uy from and relief trucks, while parents were Tacloban, distribution of relief goods at grieving for their missing and dead Sabang District in Tacloban was based children. UN assessment on the ground on voters' list. He claimed that, "you revealed that the "most immediate would not receive a relief well if you are threats to life" are the lack of safe not a voter." Others argued that moving drinking water, lack of shelter, trauma of items had become a challenge due to injuries, contagious diseases, lack of the tremendous infrastructure damage. sufficient food, lack of access to The roads were blocked by 15 ft. debris, sanitation and personal hygiene items, while the ports and airports were and lack of household items and destroyed. In addition, the rescuers worth of cash and relief items have been dollar for the Typhoon Haiyan Relief supplies like fuel. became victims themselves. The brought to the country to ease the Fund. In addition, Canada’s burden of the affected families. Citizenship and Immigration Minister Canada’s response alone was Chris Alexander announced on remarkable. A Royal Canadian Air Force November 14, 2013 that Citizenship aircraft carrying personnel and and Immigration Canada (CIC) will equipment was deployed as part of the prioritize the processing of Disaster Assistance Response Team applications from people who self- (DART) to the city of Iloilo. An initial $5 identify as being significantly affected million was announced in support to by the typhoon. Applicants overseas humanitarian organizations striving to who can demonstrate that they are meet the needs of the people affected significantly and personally affected by by this typhoon. On November 18, 2013, the typhoon and wish to declare their Prime Minister Stephen Harper cases a priority can contact the visa announced Canada will commit an additional $15 million toward emergency office in Manila directly at manila-im- relief activities that should bring further [email protected]. Those in comfort to the victims of this the affected areas will be treated as a catastrophe. On November 20, 2013, priority. Minister Christian Paradis announced Throughout these tough days, Marlon Melgar, a 17 year old supplies were washed away and local the deployment of relief supplies to the Filipinos have not given up – showing student from Palo Leyte, survived the governments were disabled. So the first hardest-hit regions of the Philippines incredible resilience, courage and storm when he and his family took response mechanism was severely and the replenishment of the emergency compassion. As Anderson Cooper shelter in a building far from the disrupted. stockpile. said, “Filipinos have shown the world coastline. When they returned to their None of these were any Canada also established a how to live.” Amidst the hunger and place after the storm, their house was consolation to the victims on the ground mechanism to match the donations thirst, the chaos, worries and gone completely. Their barangay was - wandering around hungry and thirsty. made by individual Canadians to confusion, we’ve seen the best in the unrecognizable. "We almost had nothing That's why the arrival of foreign aids registered Canadian charities. For every Filipino people, each displaying the to eat for 6 days," he said. "So people made a huge difference. Supports have eligible dollar donated by individual true Filipino heart, each demonstrating were looting at malls like Robinson's. been pouring in from all parts of the Canadians to registered Canadian the bayanihan spirit, and each willing The mall is now destroyed." Just 3 world. We have witnessed the biggest charities from now until December 9, to be the shelter from the storm. months ago, Marlon won Robinson's humanitarian deployment, and billions 2013, the government will set aside one

as he steps into the room. Then at around relatives. Fortunately, they’re all safe. now told that over $15 million in private From Page 1 PM Visit 3:45 p.m., Prime Minister Stephen Harper They’re in the north part of the country and donations have been given to this 1:00 p.m. asking me to cover the event at came and started shaking everyone’s they’re all safe. But I know everybody’s cause.And some of you also know we’re… Famas at 3:00 P.M. on Friday, November hand, asking for his or her name. I had been coming here, working hard to do we’re facilitating or speeding up 15th. I was told that there would be an my turn to shake his hand and introduced what they can to help the Philippines and immigration applications for those who important guest. I was not prepared to do myself. help obviously the people they know well. have been affected by the tragedy and are this because of a heavy workload but Mr. Mr. Harper delivered a brief I just can report as I just said that our already in the queue. I just have to mention John Papadimas, the PMO’s Regional message in English and French. The government is on the ground. The DART here, one story, if we could mention. Communications Advisor, was very following is an excerpt of his speech in teams, the other teams have arrived. Michelle here, Michelle just told me, persistent that I had to be there, so I Michelle has been very worried. Come on jokingly asked why should I go there. Is it over here, Michelle. Her mom and dad going to be the Prime Minister of Canada have been missing but today they have who will be there? He said “You got it but been found, and they’re alive and well. do not tell anyone. It will be a surprise.” Isn’t that a great story?” I arrived exactly at 3 p.m. at the After this brief speech, the Famas building where I found a lot of routine of taking photos during political Filipinos, who are members, officers of and social events took place and those Famas as well as other community who wanted a picture with the Prime leaders waiting. When I asked who was Minister also lined up to wait for their turn. coming, someone replied that it would be After pictures were taken, they sat down in the Minister of Immigration. I did not say the reception area. It was at this point anything more. As we all waited for the when I decided to leave. I saw a lot of coming of the guest, it gradually became people on the sidewalk, waiting for the obvious that a very important person was Prime Minister, and the police officers on going to arrive. The government’s motorcycle directing the traffic. I felt quite security detail and other members of the queer that I was leaving behind the Prime Prime Minister’s Office were busy Minister while the rest of the crowd checking everything to be ready, even the outside were waiting patiently to catch a way people should be seated, separating glimpse of him. When I arrived at my The Prime Minister shaking hand with Svetlana Suarez (her back to the camera) the media from the rest of the people. I office, I received a call from Mr. John felt a little bit flustered when I was told English: “So let me just repeat all that. They’re starting to deliver services in the Papadimas who asked me why I left. early. that being a member of the press that I We’re here to show our solidarity. I know area of Iloilo where they are in that whole He said he was looking for me. I should go to the basement I refused to Canadians all across the country have our region. We have… government of course explained that I had to leave for another go to the basement as no one was there Filipino friends in their thoughts and has given $5 million directly and we meeting. and I thought I would miss the opportunity prayers. Some of you may know, on my created a matching fund. We matched to take the Prime Minister’s photo as soon wife’s side we actually have Filipino donations by Canadian individuals and I'm www.filipinostar.org November 2013 The North American Filipino Star 5 This winter, in the greenhouses of the Botanical Garden: Christmas Season With Flair Montréal, November 27, 2013 - wrapped in plant garlands—draw the The Montréal Space for Life presents eye. These surprising horticultural Christmas Season With Flair, a joyous creations stand side-by-side with original blend of tradition, art and rustic charm, craft pieces and works of art. from December 6, 2013, to January 5, A fabulous flight of reindeer— 2014, at the Montréal Botanical Garden! created by artist-teacher Pierrette In a sophisticated mise en scène, the Lambert with students from elementary Main Exhibition Greenhouse presents a and high schools in Montréal and Val tribute to the Nordic nature of Québec, d’Or—soars majestically through the with five spectacular three-metre-high greenhouse’s airspace. Sure to fascinate (Editor’s Note: Welcome back, Michael. coming to the prominent ones such Christmas trees below an impressive one and all, these superb reindeer are We’re blessed to have you on board) as the legendary Ben Farrales . flight of six life-sized reindeer made from made from recycled materials, are MANILA - From collections Ben Farrales or Mang Ben recycled materials. Along a trail through covered with bark, lichen and moss, and with minimal embellishments to brought the event to a nostalgic finale all the exhibition greenhouses, are reminiscent of the plant sculptures intensely elaborate design, this year’s with his trademark Muslim-inspired surprising horticultural creations are starring in this summer’s Mosaïcultures showcased by a décor that is at once Internationales event. Also on display in rustic, artistic and ecological. And in the Main Exhibition Greenhouse are keeping with this festive period, during beautiful pictures weaved into large the first two weekends of December, canvasses by artist Louise Lemieux- twenty or so merchants, artists and Bérubé. Recycling artists Hubert Soucy artisans show off their “green” creations and Stephen Lindsay find playful new for a third year as part of the Christmas uses for objects that are typical of our Fair. northern climate. Finally, a magnificent In the greenhouses: An event botanical tableau made from staghorn full of flair! ferns (Platycerium) of surprising shapes Arriving at the Botanical hangs from the wall—an alternative to Garden, visitors will see an immense, the traditional deer or moose antlers majestic outdoor botanical sculpture often found in hunting lodges. covered in willow branches suggesting It is in this festive environment magnificent antlers. In the exhibition that several choirs—the Universalis vocal greenhouses, unusual lamps decorated ensemble, the Conservatory Singers, the with wreaths reveal superb plants, Chour enchanté choir, the Décibel vocal Philippine Fashion Week group, and the Gens du pays vocal collection that made him the Master of showing off the Botanical Garden’s group—will treat visitors to renditions of Spring/Summer 2014 held last Philippine Haute Couture, and which priceless collection. The main attraction: the most beautiful Christmas songs from October 23,2013 to October 27,2013 placed the Philippines in the map of the Main Exhibition Greenhouse! On at SM Mall of Asia took on classic to high fashion. Executively produced by near and far during concerts every entering, oversized antlers made from weekend afternoon from December 7 to modern styles. Retail giant SM’s Audie J. A. Espino and Joey A. plants set the tone. Several extraordinary 22. shoes and bags was one of the firsts Espino, Jr., the Philippine Fashion Christmas trees—one of red poinsettias, to show off their latest collections – Week has been the Olympics of one of ferns and others of shiny steel See Page Botanical Garden featuring brand endorsers KC Fashion and the longest running Concepcion and Luis Manzano on the fashion event in the country- runway. The weeklong event were celebrating Filipino talent and participated by some of the country’s creativity. best designers – from the up and 6 The North American Filipino Star November 2013 and is helping thousands of homeowners water in our biggest fracking regions and across the state install “rain gardens” that the logistical challenges in transporting a utilize rainfall to save water and reduce compressible gas to well sites safely and run-off pollution in and around the Seattle cheaply. But as fracking expands into area. politically charged areas, or arid regions Another pioneering private lands where water is scarce, waterless fracking conservation group, the Pacific Forest could become more common. Already, Trust, works with owners of private nearly half of the fracked wells drilled forestlands throughout California, across the U.S. in 2011-2012 are in Dear Earth Talk -While working to Oregon and Washington to preserve water-stressed areas, according to the protect public land from resource working forests and keep sustainable sustainability-oriented non-profit, extraction and development seems to be forest practices alive and well in some of CERES. And a recent study from the the focus of many environmental groups, the country’s most productive timber consulting firm Wood Mackenzie what is being done to preserve and forests. To date the group has helped concluded that many of the countries protect private property—the majority of conserve upwards of 50,000 acres of with the greatest promise for developing our land—across the country? -- Jim private forestland in the region through shale oil and gas through fracking suffer Friedland, Bath, ME conservation easements and other from water shortages. Indeed, private property makes means. Bullis says that one of the up about 60 percent of the total land base CONTACTS: NWF, www.nwf.org; largest shale gas resources in the world across the United States. In 42 states Land Trust Alliance, is in China underneath 115,000 square there is more private land than public, www.landtrustalliance.org; The Nature miles of desert. “Piping in water would and by a wide margin in most cases. Conservancy, www.nature.org; American A typical fracking operation pumps some five million strain already tight supplies,” he says, (Only Alaska, Nevada, Utah, Idaho, Farmland Trust, www.farmland.org; gallons of water and chemicals underground to but adds that China’s major use of coal- Oregon, Arizona, Wyoming and California Stewardship Partners, break up the shale. About half the water is removed fired power plants means the country has have more public land—that is, land www.stewardshippartners.org; Pacific during the oil and gas recovery process, leaving the plenty of CO2 it could be capturing and Forest Trust, www.pacificforest.org. other half underground where it can contaminate using. owned by a federal, state, county or aquifers and degrade soils. (Credit: Flickr) municipal government—than private.) Of EarthTalk® is written and edited CONTACTS: MIT Technology can be recovered and used repeatedly. course, all this private land isn’t just the by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss and is Review, www.technologyreview.com; And once a well is done producing, it can parcels where our houses sit. It includes a registered trademark of E - The “Estimating the Carbon Sequestration be sealed up, sequestering the CO2 most commercial, industrial and Environmental Magazine Capacity of Shale Formations Using underground where it can’t add to global agricultural lands as well. (www.emagazine.com). Send questions Methane Production Rates,” warming. What we each do on our own to: [email protected]. http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/es4 Researchers at the University of private property may be our own Subscribe: 01221j. Virginia e timate that fracked business, but whether and how we take www.emagazine.com/subscribe. Free EarthTalk® is written and edited sections of the Marcellus shale in the care of it does impact the public good Trial Issue: www.emagazine.com/trial. by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss and is eastern U.S. could store over half of all and the health of ecosystems near and Dear EarthTalk: I hear there’s a a registered trademark of E - The U.S. CO2 emissions from power plants far. One way each of us can do our part is greener form of fracking for natural gas Environmental Magazine and other stationary sources over the by cultivating native plants and and oil that uses carbon dioxide instead (www.emagazine.com). Send questions next 20 years, with other shale landscaping around our homes and of water to access underground reserves. to: [email protected]. formations providing significant businesses to increase habitat for local Is this really better for the environment? additional storage. wildlife. As development slowly but surely -- Jason Burroughs, Erie, PA Right now CO2-based fracking swallows up open space, every backyard Hydraulic fracturing (known as is uncommon, given the abundance of counts. The National Wildlife Federation’s “fracking”) is a method of causing (NWF’s) Certified Wildlife Habitat fissures in underground shale rock program provides homeowners with formations to facilitate the extraction of Kalman Samuels, Q.C. information and inspiration to make their otherwise inaccessible natural gas and backyards part of the solution. oil. In a typical fracking operation, drillers Meanwhile, millions of inject a mixture of pressurized water and & Associates, s.e.n.c. Americans have used local land trusts to chemicals underground to fracture the put conservation easements on their rock and free up the gas and oil. Not Attorneys properties that preclude future widely employed in the U.S. until less development. The Washington, DC- than a decade ago, fracking has quickly based Land Trust Alliance serves as a become a major player in the U.S. energy clearinghouse for information on scene. The resulting influx of cheap obtaining conservation easements and domestic natural gas—cleaner burning other private land protections through than the oil and coal it has replaced—is at one of the 1,700 local land trusts across least partly responsible for the fact that the country. And the Virginia-based the U.S. has reduced its greenhouse gas Nature Conservancy has helped protect emissions to the lowest levels since 1992. upwards of 15 million acres of private Fracking has been good for oil land across the U.S. by buying at-risk companies, the economy and even our parcels, putting conservation easements carbon footprint, but it doesn’t come on them and seeing that they are without environmental cost. A typical managed sustainably moving forward. fracking operation pumps some five As for conservation on working million gallons of water and chemicals lands, the American Farmland Trust has underground to break up the shale. helped thousands of farmers and About half the water is removed during Stella Samuels ranchers across the country protect over the oil and gas recovery process, leaving five million acres of private agricultural the other half underground where it can and grazing land through conservation contaminate aquifers and degrade soils. • Family Law • Litigation • Immigration easements and other tools designed to Enterprising petroleum limit the conversion to non-agricultural engineers have been hard at work trying www.kalmansamuels.com Tel. : 514-939-1200 uses. to find ways to frack without water. One There are also smaller regionally promising alternative involves using focused groups that work on private carbon dioxide (CO2) to break up the lands conservation. Stewardship Partners underground shale instead of water. works with Washington state “Fracking with carbon dioxide has a homeowners and businesses to restore number of potential advantages,” reports DR. EMILIA ESPIRITU fish and wildlife habitat, improve water Kevin Bullis in the MIT Technology quality, protect open space and “green Review. “Not only would it eliminate the CHIRURGIEN DENTISTE / DENTAL up” the built environment while need for millions of gallons of water per SURGEON maintaining working landscapes of farms, well, it would also eliminate the large forestland and livable communities. The amounts of wastewater produced in the group has helped hundreds of farms and process.” 5790 Cote des Neiges Rd Suite A-024 vineyards across the state identify ways He adds that CO2 may also yield MONTREAL, QUEBEC PHONE: 514-340-8222 (4077) to restore otherwise unproductive lands more natural gas and oil than water, given H3S 1Y9 E-Mail: [email protected] for the betterment of local ecosystems, the dynamics of how it works underground. Also, CO2 used in fracking www.filipinostar.org November 2013 The North American Filipino Star 7 Lions celebrates 60th anniversary by W. G. Quiambao president of the Lions Club. "It's one of The Lion's Club International the worst typhoons that hit the (Montreal Westward) celebrated its 60th Philippines."

Ambassador Leslie Gatan took the time to go around each table and had a souvenir photo taken. Above group shows some of the guests with the Ambassador (standing, 2nd on the left) Lions. Some of them are: St. Mary's The incumbent officers of the Hospital, Reclaim, New Hope Center Lions are: Ben Bade, - president, Dino (elderly) and victims of calamities in the Pugliese - Vice President, Myrna Philippines. Maranan Francisco- Secretary, Frank Highlights of the program were Zizek - Treasurer, Hartley Barber - The Philippine Ambassador, Hon. Leslie Gatan, is flanked by the Lions Club members and the presentation of Certificate of Overall-in- charge, Danny Ganas - Tail officers. On the extreme left is Ben Bade, club president. Appreciation given by Justin Trudeau, Twister/Tamer, Welfare Chairman - anniversary last Nov.ember 2nd at the Lions is one of the associations Papineau MP for the Lions' 60th year of Amado Lozano, Welfare Chairman Holiday Inn Hotel. About 150 people in Montreal that whoever supports its services to the community, dances by Assistant - Hartley Barber, The attended the event. fundraisings is assured that the money Pamana and songs by Jessica Reyes. following are members of the Lions: Flor "Part of the money we made will generated goes to a good cause. In the The guest speakers were Rillo, Vinnie Villegas, Estella Domingo go to the victims of typhoon Yolanda in past, many associations and individuals Constant di Girolamo and Ambassador and Lina Fernandez. the Philippines, " said Ben Bade, had benefitted from the generosity of Leslie Gatan. Maraming nasalanta ang bagyong Yolanda subalit ng panahan upang mag-alay ng tulong. Si Ang mahalaga sa lahat, sa marami rin tayong natutuhan at napatunayan Mel Gibson, ang konbrobersyal na aktor ganitong pagkakataon, higit na na minsan ay binansagang rasista, at si natutuhan at napatunayan ng mga ni W. G. Quiambao meteorolohiya. Ang kalikasan, ang Jessica Sanchez na pumangalawa sa Pilipino na sila ay lalong tumatapang. Ang mga taong nasa itaas ng kahirapan ng pamumuhay, ang pagpapalit American Idol, ay nangakong tutulong. Tumatatag. Sa kabila ng kasawian ay matayog na gusali upang maiwasan ang ng klima , lumalaking populasyon. Nakatutuwang isipin na marami ring bumabagon sila sa pagkakaragsa. malakas na alon sa dagat, ang isang ina na Tutoo man o hindi ang ginawang taong may damdamin at puso. Na sa Umaasa. mahigpit na yakap ang kaniyang sanggol pag-aaral na ito, marami naman tayong sandali ng matinding pangangailangan upang maiwasan ang takot, ang mga tao, natutuhan at napatunayan sa bagyong ay hindi ka nag-iisa. Ganito ang mga Pilipino. lalo na ang mga bata, na namamalimos ng Yolanda. Ako? Natutuhan kong pagkain upang maibsan ang gutom at pahalagahan ang mga bagay na dati ay tubig upang mapawi ang uhaw at higit sa hindi ko binibigyan pansin. - ang mga lahat, ang mga katawan ng nasawi sa sobrang pagkain at tubig sa boteng lansangan na ibinabalot na lamang ng nabuksan na na kadalasan ay itinatapon diyaryo - ang mga larawang ito ang na lamang. Ngayon ko lamang nakita kung nakaukit hindi lamang isipan ko kundi gaano kahalaga ang mga ito sa mga maging sa mga ng ibang tao sa buong biktima ng bagyo. Wala silang makain, mundo habang pinanunuod sa telebisyon wala silang mainom. At kung anuman ang ang mga pinsalang dala ng bagyong aking nadaramang suliranin, natutuhan Yolanda. kong hindi masyadong mangamba Kahit ang taong matigas ang sapagkat maliit lamang ito kung puso ay maaantig ang damdamin sa ihahalintulad sa suliranin ng mga biktima kalunus-lunos na larawang ito. ng bagyo ngayon. Sa ganitong pagkakataon, hindi Ang atin namang napatunayan ay natin maiwasan ang itanong sa ating sarili ang pagtutulungan at pagkakaisa ng mga kung bakit nangyayari ang ganitong Pilipino sa ating komunidad. Anumang kalamidad sa Pilipinas. Hindi natin hindi pagkakaunawaan at hidwaan ay masasabi na ang mga Pilipino ay isinasaintabi muna natin sa ganitong nagkukulang na ng pananampalataya at pagkakataon upang makatulong sa ating pagdalangin sa panginuong Diyos. Ang kapwa. Ang mga kasapi ng ating mga Pilipino ay nanatiling likas na komunidad ay nakikipag-ugnayan sa relihiyoso - Katoliko, Protestante o ibang asosasyon o kumikilos mag-isa. May anumang relihiyon. nagbibigay ng pera, damit at dalangin. Ayon sa aking nabasa sa Gazette Ang tanging mahalaga, ang ating kamakailan, marami ang dahilan kung pagtulong ay nanggagaling sa kaibuturan bakit nangyayari ang mga ganitong ng puso. Hindi pansarili. Hindi para sa kalamidad na tulad ng lindol at bagyo sa publisidad. Marami ring bansa, tulad ng Pilipinas. Naruon ang geograpiya at Canada at Amerika, ang hindi nag-aksaya

[email protected]

www.filipinostar.org 8 The North American Filipino Star November 2013 Typhoon Haiyan - Heart-warming Global Response and Filipino Resilience By: Howard Liebman Typhoon Haiyan (called In the period between Yolanda in the Philippines), a Category Philippines Independence Day in June Five super typhoon whose eye made its to several Induction Balls last month, I first landfall in the Philippines at Guiuan, have had the privilege to join Montreal's Eastern Samar, was the strongest vibrant and growing Filipino community tropical cyclone to make a landfall on at numerous events, galas, pageants, record. Haiyan made five additional religious services, concerts, festivals landfalls in the Philippines before and celebrations. moving on to northern Vietnam as a Yours is a thriving community - severe tropical storm on November 10. which includes dozens of groups As has been widely reported, devoted to all aspects of communal life Haiyan caused catastrophic destruction and representing all regions of the in the central Philippines. According to Philippines - social, philanthropic, early estimates from UN officials, about religious, sporting, service, trades, 11 million people have been affected, educational and more. thousands died and many have been left When a massive earthquake homeless. struck Bohol weeks ago, followed by the The typhoon has highlighted unprecedented devastation and death of the debate about climate change. Typhoon Haiyan, your Member of During the 2013 United Nations Climate Howard Liebman, flanked by Nida Quirapas (left), current FAMAS president, and Michelle Parliament Irwin Cotler and his Office Change Conference in Warsaw, which Allana whose parents were reported mijssing but were later found and safe from the storm. swung into action to offer comfort, was coincidentally being held as the support, services and solidarity with the typhoon raged, Yeb Saño, the lead announced: processing of Filipino applications on local Filipino community. We sought negotiator of the Philippines delegation • Providing up to $5 million in request from those who are significantly briefings from Consular Affairs, met with received a standing ovation for support to humanitarian organizations and personally affected by Typhoon constituents in distress, were in contact announcing: "In solidarity with my for emergency relief activities; Haiyan. Requests from Filipino citizens contact with community leadership and countrymen who are struggling to find • Committing an additional $15 who are temporarily in Canada and wish much more. food back home, I will now commence a million for humanitarian assistance, to extend their stay will be assessed in a As Chief of Staff, based in the voluntary fasting for the climate; this based on appeals from Canada’s compassionate and flexible manner. constituency office in Cote-Des-Neiges, I means I will voluntarily refrain from humanitarian partners, such as United Canadians without travel documents as have worked closely with the Filipino eating food during this Conference, until Nations agencies, the Red Cross and a result of the typhoon will have their community, its thousands of members, a meaningful outcome is in sight." Red Crescent Movement, and non- applications expedited by the Canadian and groups, and have felt a closeness Several of the area hit by Haiyan governmental organizations, who have Embassy in Manila. and particular urgency in responding to were affected by an earlier earthquake in the expertise and capacity to deliver I joined the leadership of the the earthquake and to Typhoon Haiyan. Bohol and neighbouring Cebu which assistance on the ground; Filipino Federation and of FAMAS in I have also witnessed the heart-warming caused significant damage to buildings • Creating a matching fund by which welcoming the Prime Minister to the resilience of the Filipino people both in and infrastructure, including ancient the government will contribute a dollar Mount Royal riding on a brief solidarity Canada and in the Philippines as well so churches and the collapse of a local for each eligible dollar donated by visit he paid to the community on many gestures of support from fellow hospital trapping many people, individual Canadians to registered November 15, and to thank him for the Montrealers and Canadians from coast- including patients, inside. The Canadian charities until December 9, support of the federal government. to-coast. earthquake was responsible for close to 2013; In the coming days and weeks, I was particularly proud of the 200 deaths. • Assisting with the deployment of a the community can be sure that together solidarity and response of my own In the coastal community Canadian Red Cross 12-person medical with MP Cotler and his team, as your Jewish community to Typhoon Haiyan - Guiuan, which took the full brunt of the team and field hospital to provide 'Kababayans', our deep friendship and a fund has been launched by the main typhoon, Mayor Christopher Gonzalez is emergency health support in the work in common cause will continue body Federation CJA, individual fund- credited with saving countless lives after Philippines; and will grow in good times as in bad. raising initiatives have been launched he incessantly urged residents to • Sending the Interdepartmental including at my children's school and evacuate. He referred to the storm as Strategic Support Team to Manila to Howard Liebman is a Montreal others, and the State of Israel was "delubyo," ("Armageddon"). Of the determine where Canada’s help is most lawyer, husband and father of three among the first on the ground with town's 45,000 residents, early reports needed; and, young boys. He has served the Filipino world-renown rescue teams and a field indicated that 87 died, 931 were injured, • Deploying elements of the Canadian community and all the people of the hospital delivering urgent and and 23 others were listed as missing. Armed Forces’ Disaster Assistance federal riding of Mount Royal for the past desperately needed care. I recently U.S. Navy Capt. Russell Hays, a medical Response Team (DART) to support 10 years as Chief of Staff to the learned of the incredible kindness of the officer, estimated that a storm of Government of Canada relief efforts in Honourable Irwin Cotler, Member of Filipino people whose President Manuel Haiyan's caliber could have killed as the region by providing clean water, Parliament, based in the constituency Quezon welcomed 1,000 German Jews many as 4,500 in Guiuan alone had it not medical assistance and logistical office at 4770 Kent corner Victoria fleeing Nazi Germany in 1938 and who been for the mayor's efforts. support. The DART will address the (www.irwincotler.ca) . You can follow prophetically saw that one day there The Canadian Government pressing needs in the provinces of Iloilo Howard on Facebook: hliebman or on may be a time of need for his own responded generously to this tragedy. and Capiz. Twitter: @HowardLiebman country. As of press-time, the federal government • Canada will be prioritizing the Need Money?

• No Credit Checks!

• No upfront fees!

• Immediate response!

Call and Get Cash Now!!! (514) 344-1499

www.filipinostar.org November 2013 The North American Filipino Star 9 mga donasyon. I have news for those Filipinos was expected to take. Here’s types of people. Aside from the current what Anderson, the host of Anderson FAMAS, there are other groups that are 360, a popular TV program on CNN, presently raising funds without had to say, and I quote, “As for who fanfares, such groups include the one exactly is in charge of the Philippine led by James de la Paz, another group side of operation, that is not really headed by Neil Kastro, then there is the clear. I am just surprised. I expected on local Knights of Columbus, and private this Day Five, I thought I might have individuals who would rather entrust gotten here very late, that things will be their donations with other well in hand; it does not seem like that. organizations run by people whom People are desperate; they do not they think are genuinely trustworthy. have any place for shelter. It’s very ******* difficult for people to get food, WHERE THE HECK IS NOYNOY? neighbors are helping out neighbors, – For at least the first two weeks after water is in short supply; it is a very, very Super Typhoon Yolanda (delicadeza), more particularly when a super typhoon Yolanda had wrought bad situation here.” (Haiyan internationally) considerable amount of other people’s havoc upon Leyte and its surrounding There’s also this story about and the reportedly- money is involved. In their fundraising provinces, a great many Filipinos were Noynoy’s mom, Cory Aquino, when initiatives in the past, there was almost asking themselves and one another she was the president of the fraudulent fundraisers in always no transparency. No report, no “Where’s Noynoy?” in reference to Philippines. Rumor had it that she was Montreal proof that the funds they collected Philippine President Benigno ‘Noynoy’ hiding under her bed¸ cowering in fear In less than three weeks, the were indeed given to its intended Aquino III’s apparent lukewarm and in Malacanang while the rebel Filipino Philippines had one major earthquake beneficiaries. When asked for concrete lackadaisical response to the plight of soldiers were bombing Manila. It and three devastating typhoons, the evidence that they actually gave said thousands of Filipinos who were seems that Noynoy had torn a page most destructive of which is super money as the public expected, the callously and brutally knocked down from his mom’s “Book on What the Typhoon Yolanda (internationally usual fundraising suspects couldn't by the super typhoon. President Must Do in Case of National called Haiyan). Yolanda has been provide any. The only proof they could Hundreds of human and Emergencies” and thought that hiding reported to be the strongest and most offer is "Alam ng Diyos...." as if God animal carcasses that were already in under his bed, wallowing in the relative destructive typhoon in the world this would indeed come down from His advanced state of decomposition were comfort and safety of Malacanang year affecting more than four million kingdom to bear them out. scattered all over the streets even five [while Leyteños were getting hungry families in 29 provinces in the Central Kung ang mga hipokrito at days after Yolanda started ravaging the and in pain] was the best course of Visayas Region. As the world already tiwaling community leader na iyon din region, giving off unbearable stench action for the president to take in case knows, Tacloban City in Leyte took the lamang ang mangongolekta ng mga and whose fumes could cause of natural calamities or civil wars. brunt of Yolanda’s wrath. donasyon at sasabihin na sila na illnesses to the already hamstrung The shameful unpresidential These had brought unmatched mismo ang magbibigay ng pondo sa populace. Help from the national reaction to the Central Visayans’ latest level of destruction with the number of mga biktima sa Pilipinas, idederetso ko government has been excruciatingly woes by the nation’s top leader has casualties in the thousands expected na lang ang aking tulong sa Canadian slow, if it’s moving in the first place. made its slogan “It’s more fun in the to rise as retrieval operations continue. Red Cross or similar reputable Even foreign correspondents couldn’t Philippines” funnier and more derisible Distribution of relief goods is organizations instead. Ligtas na ang help asking where the top leader of the than it was already before Yolanda. hampered by impassable roads and aking pinaghirapang kuwarta sa mga country was when he was supposed to President Noynoy, by his own doing, demolished bridges. habitual na mangungurakot, tax be in the forefront of the rescue efforts seems to have become the Philippines’ On November 12th in Montreal deductible pa. Ganoon din sana ang to minimize the pain and suffering answer to the US’s former President scene, there was a big meeting of gawin ng iba pa na nagnanais na inflicted on the residents by heartless Jimmy Carter, arguably the most community leaders and other civic- tumulong sa libu-libong tao na Yolanda. scoffed president in US history. But minded Filipinos at the FAMAS nasalanta ng mabagsik na bagyong Noynoy was seldom seen on several years after his presidency, the Community Center on Van Horne Haiyan o Yolanda. Sayang ang the rescue efforts radar screen, if at all. former president regained much of the Avenue. The purpose of that meeting kindness and generosity ng mga It should be noted that he was also respect of the American people and was to discuss how best to help the nagbigay kung sa Montreal pa lamang absent during the hostage-taking and the rest of the world and redeemed hapless victims of Yolanda. ay makukurakot na ang kanilang subsequent murder in Manila of himself when he became a trusted and Predictably, a fundraising campaign donasyon. Chinese tourists from Hong Kong by a award-winning peacemaker among was launched that evening at the Sa aking palagay, ang isang disgruntled Filipino police officer. warring nations. I don’t think that initiative of the present FAMAS paraan para mabawasan, kundiman Even American Anderson Cooper, who Noynoy has what it takes to be a leadership. tuluyang maalis, ang kanilang pang- was on location in Leyte and whom US trusted peacemaker even just, and In the meantime, what gives uumit ng inyong mga donasyon ay Pres. Barack Obama had reportedly especially, within the Philippines. Heck, me the uneasy feeling and concerns huwag kayong magbigay ng cash appointed as US ambassador to the he can’t even get himself a girlfriend me the most is some of the people dahil mahirap iyung matuntun kung Philippines, couldn’t help noticing the without the approval of his sisters that directly involved in said fundraising saan napunta. Sa halip, ang ibigay conspicuousness of Noynoy’s include reckless and condescending initiative. There are among them a n’yo ay tseke na payable sa reputable absence and the lack of efforts that the Kris! person who was found guilty of 13 organizations na tulad ng Canadian president of close to 83 million counts of embezzlement out of 18 Red Cross, World Vision or even ABS- accusations, then there’s someone CBN. Do you want to be the life of the party? who lost her license to sell plane So far daw, mahigit nang tickets due to fraudulent business $50,000.00 ang nakokolekta galing sa Meet new friends? Enjoy life to the fullest? practices, a community leader who iba’t-ibang mga indibidwal mula sa It’s easy - learn how to dance like a PRO. couldn’t explain why a large sum of international community sa Montreal money that belonged to the and suburbs, mga amo ng Pinay Join the Gilmore Dance Club. association she presided before the domestic helpers and caregivers, at Start with 10 lessons, to try if you present one was missing, a malicious business entities na may mga individual who was evicted from his empleyadong Pinoy, at marami pang like it. Classes are taught by apartment at least twice for inability to iba. a professional dance instructor. pay his rent and someone who seems Heto ang isang nakakatawang to have this uncontrollable urge to sinabi ng isang dating community Sunday schedule - 6 to 7 p.m. surreptitiously put as much foods (from leader na madalas ay hindi muna buffet restaurants or private parties he iniisip ang kanyang sasabihin bago and his wife are invited to occasionally) magsalita. Kung hindi ka raw nakita sa Classes start as soon as there are 7 as he could in the bag that he always FAMAS Community Center noong to 10 confirmed registrations carries for that purpose. Sabado, November 12th, hindi ka raw Cost - $100 for 10 lessons prepaid. As you can deduce from the tumulong at hindi nagbigay ng donasyon na para bagang ang preceding paragraph, the common For information & registration: denominator among those people I kasalukuyang FAMAS lamang ang just referred is the apparent lack of merong karapatang maglunsad ng Call 514-485-7861 trustworthiness and sense of propriety fundraisings o dapat tumanggap ng

www.filipinostar.org 10 The North American Filipino Star November 2013

sound rich and consistent, reduce hum shot. The process is not a fast one, but or add reverb or de-pop your vocals by a stabilization filter, or SmoothCam applying a few basic filters. Learning to filter in Final Cut Pro language, will Ask the use these controls effectively may take digitally analyse your video footage, some practice and a tutorial or two, but then use the magic of artificial you likely have all the audioprocessing intelligence and complicated Video Guy tools a video producer will ever need, algorithms to smooth out your floating right in your editing app. footage to make your shots as smooth by as silk. 4) Pushes and Pulls Because it is processor Performing slow, smooth, intensive and takes a long time (as in, subtle zooms in the video camera as apply the filter, go to bed and hope that Al Abdon you shoot can be a tough task. Getting Adobe Premiere or Final Cut Pro has a zoom just right requires a super the work done by morning), this is Video Editing Tools video editing software application. steady hand, and a feather-light finger an enhancement that is best used only Today’s video editing on the zoom toggle. Of course, once on the occasional clip that really needs applications like Adobe Premiere, 2) Speed Effects you shoot a shot as a zoom, you are it. It won’t fix every bump in the road, Apple Final Cut Pro and SonyVegas Increasing or decreasing the stuck with it. It cannot be undone. however I have found it to be a great are affordable, accessible, and speed of your video footage to create Fortunately, your editing software tool for smoothing out steadicam incredibly powerful tools for video slow motion, fast motion, a quick offers you another option. The motion footage and well-shot handheld postproduction. combination of the two to make a controls in your video editing clips.So, don’t just use your video Video editing programs like speed ramp, even reversing footage application allow you to push in past editing application for stringing these let you do way more than just as a comedic device or to simulate 100% and to set keyframes to create together a series of clips.Take full edit video clips together.They allow turning back time, can all be very cool picture perfect zooms in post. You can advantage of all that your editing you to turn ordinary edits into polished, elements in your videos. Effects like add them whereveryou like, and alter application can do for you. These five professional video productions. these were very difficult to create a few the speed until you achieve exactly the functions are just the beginning. By These 5 tips will help you UP years ago. Smooth slow motion, for look you like. The amount of push you digging deeper into your video editing your editing power. instance, required a special and can get away with before the quality of softwareapplication you will discover expensive VTR. Today, the best way to the image breaks down will depend on that the software you already own has 1) Color Correction & Effects pull them off is on your video editing the resolution at which you shot your all kinds of untapped features just There was a time not so long timeline. Speed tools allow you to footage, and on your project settings. waiting to help you make more ago when color correction was a luxury simply keystroke in a percentage to You can zoom in on an image further professional productions. that was onlyaccessible to top-of-the- increase or decrease the speed of a without noticeable loss if you shoot at totem pole television and video video clip, select a constant or variable 1080 and edit in a 720 timeline, for Al Abdon producers. Everyone else did their best speed setting and render out your instance, but even when working with to capture the best color they could in speed enhanced footage in a few project settings that match your Hollywood Junkies the camera. This meant setting the seconds. If you feel the need for acquisition resolution, you can likely speed, try it out. still push in to 110% or 120% without camera’s exposure properly for the Save on our scene, and occasionally shooting With your video editing seeing your image quality fail. through physical lens filters to add software application, speed effects are Try it. You’ll like it. 3-Media color to a sunset or to simulate the faster and easier than youmight think. Advertising Packages darkness of night. These days,color 5) Stabilization 3) Audio Sweetening correction is accessible to anyone who Another awesome feature of TV, Web, & Newspaper has a decent video editing software Another huge improvement to today’s video editing software app like Adobe Premiere, Apple Final the video editing postproduction applications is the ability of the Cut Pro or Sony Vegas. As a result, process that has been enabled by program to analyse and stabilize the Call 514-485-7861 video editors have discovered that modern video editing software applications is in the area of audio almost every clip can benefit from at RESTAURANT least a small amount of color post. Even the simple audio editing correction. Whether you’re crushing controls and filters that are included in LA MAISON NEW KUM MON the blacks, boosting the mids or your video editor allow you to mix ith a great deal of control. You can 6565 Côte-des-Neiges Road 5047 Henri Bourassa Est honing thehighlights, color correction (near Corner Appleton) Montréal, QC H1G 2S1 is something that you should do, and normalize, equalize, compress or Montreal, QC Tel.: (514) 322-3133, 322-3130 something that is best done in your expand your levels to make everything Bean Curd Seafood Soup Fish Maw Seafood Soup 1/2 Crispy Chicken Baked Lobster with Ginger Salt and Pepper Pork Loin Seafood with Chinese Stuffed Bean Curd with Ecole de Conduite Shrimps Broccoli Sauted Seasonal Vegetables Salt and Pepper Cuttle Fish Steamed Rice Fried Sea Bass Fish ECHO $45.95 Steamed Rice $68.95 Certified by Driving School 4 persons 4 persons Bean Curd Soup 5871 Victoria, #219 Fish maw seafood soup 1/2 Crispy Chicken 2 Baked Lobsters with Ginger Montreal H3W 2R7 Shrimp Cake with Chinese Seafood with Eggplant 514-731-8757 /514-961-0591 Broccoli in Hot Pot [email protected] Sweet and Sour Pork Stuffed Bean Curd with Seafood with Bean Curd in Shrimp $699 tax included Hot Pot Seafood with Chinese broccoli Salt and Pepper Squid Fried Sea Bass Fish More discounts for two or more persons who House Fried Rice register together.!! Fried Sea Bass Fish $75.95 Special Fried Noodles $145.95 •New Program (RSEP) 24 hrs theory •Free & Fast Road Test Steamed Rice 6 persons 10 persons & 15 hrs practical driving booking appointment •Payment plan for new program •Have Filipino instructor •Instructors w/more than 10 yrs FREE DELIVERY •Practical Driving Package 514-733-6029 experience certified by AQTr Minimum order of $10 We emphasize quality of service and students’ satisfaction. Delivery hours: 514-733-1067 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. For party menu, call Kenny 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

www.filipinostar.org November 2013 The North American Filipino Star 11 Op Ed. - In time of need, repaying a debt to the Philippines By Alan H. Gill sanitation items and shelter support — November 12, 2013 10:57am through its partners, the Afya Foundation and Catholic Relief NEW YORK (JTA) — As the Services. JDC’s advance team of extent of the catastrophic damage and disaster relief and development experts tragic death toll continues to grow in the will head to the Philippines later this Philippines, a particularly heroic piece of week to assess damage and needs history should be recalled by the global while consulting with our Jewish community, which owes a debt local/international partners and the to the island nation. Filipino Jewish community to ensure Seven decades ago, a Philippine maximum impact for storm survivors. president, a globetrotting Jewish family About 30 percent of funds raised will be named Frieder and the American Jewish dedicated to immediate relief for food, Joint Distribution Committee, my water, shelter, medical supplies and organization, helped save the lives of care, unless the emergency phase lasts more than 1,000 Jews who otherwise longer because of expanding, critical Alex Frieder, seated, surrounded by Jewish refugees that he and his brothers helped escape would have almost certainly died in the needs among survivors. The rest will be from Nazi Germany and Austria to the Philippines. (3 Roads Communications) Holocaust. invested in sustainable local projects Thanks to their initiative, these ( Alan H. Gill is the CEO of the Jewish refugees that he and his that will emerge in the long, slow refugees were issued rare travel American Jewish Joint Distribution brothers helped escape from Nazi process of rehabilitation that is sure to certificates to the Asian country to work Committee.) come. Germany and Austria to the as skilled laborers in the Frieders’ cigar Picture caption It’s a formula JDC, which is Philippines. (3 Roads factories in Manila — though in reality, Alex Frieder, seated, surrounded by celebrating its centennial this year, has Communications) few of them had any experience in the developed over decades of efforts in the industry whatsoever. The audacious INVITATION field, from helping Ukrainians starved by operation, seemingly extraordinary the Bolsheviks in the 1920s to Gilmore College Students, Teachers, and Members of today, is the subject of the recently rehabilitating survivors of genocide in released documentary “Rescue in the the Filipino Solidarity Cooperative Rwanda. And on behalf of the North Philippines.” American Jewish community and with Friends and Neighbors At the time that Manuel Quezon its support, we have over the past admitted Jews to his country, the CHRISTMAS GET TOGETHER decade delivered tens of millions of Filipino president made what seems dollars in aid to victims of natural and December 15, 2013 today like a remarkably prescient manmade disasters in Southeast Asia, statement. 5:00-11:00 P.M. Haiti and Japan. The people of the Philippines These efforts now come full Gilmore College International will have in the future every reason to be circle, especially for one member of our glad that when the time of need came, team arriving in the Philippines later this their country was willing to extend a week, Danny Pins. In addition to being 5320-A Queen Mary Road, Montreal welcome hand,” he was quoted as one of our development and saying. Call 514-485-7861 for details employment experts, Pins’ mother and We recalled this moment in grandparents were among the German history last week when we began Jews who fled to the Philippines to seek reading reports and watching coverage safe haven in 1938. His posting, in many of the impending super typhoon Haiyan ways a homecoming despite previous — the strongest storm in recorded trips to the country, is highly symbolic. history — as it barreled toward the Jack Victor Today, in the wake of one of the Philippines. In anticipation of the worst storms in history, with perhaps impact, JDC’s disaster relief and Jack Victor Limited 1250 St. Alexandre, Montreal, Quebec H3B 3H6 more than 10,000 dead and hundreds of development staff assembled a Tel.: 514-866-4891 Fax: 514-861-6045 thousands homeless, we are fully contingency plan that went into full committed to fulfilling President effect once news emerged of the death Quezon’s prophecy and returning the and destruction wrought by Haiyan. favor to the Filipino people. Not just Jack Victor is a leading men’s suit As part of our ongoing because we are Jews, the heirs to this response to the typhoon, JDC will ship manufacturer. We employ more than 850 nation’s life-saving actions, but because critically important food, shelter, and we firmly believe in mutual responsibility unionized employees in our downtown hygiene and medical supplies — as well and the idea that each individual life is as ensure the provision of water and location. Located near McGill metro. valuable beyond measure. Looking for experienced operators to perform TRIPLE B various operations using a plain sewing 6338 Victoria Aenue, Suite No. 4 machine. Montreal, Quebec H3W 2S5 Tel. (514) 731-7450 Must have experience as an operator. This is (Corner Victoria - Carlton Ave.) a full time, permanent position (39 hours per Office Hours: Monday to Sunday week) with union benefits and good working 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM conditions.

- Nationwide Door to Door Delivery Pleaes call or come in person to: - Bank Deposit to Any Bank Pick up transaction at Mlhuillier 1250 Saint Alexandre -Pick up transaction at Banco de Oro Montreal, Quebec - TFC (The Filipino Channel) Subscription - Mobile phone loading (Smart, Globe, TM etc) H3B 3H6 - Jollibee Padalang Langhap Sarap “Easy, Fast and Reliable! Trust that your hard earned money will (514) 866-4891 reach your loved ones in the Philippines.”.

www.filipinostar.org 12 The North American Filipino Star November 2013 Philippine Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2014 Photography by Joman Radaza exclusively for the North American Filipino Star

A fashion photography course is being planned to be offered at Gilmore College International. This course is unique and specialized, different from other photography courses anywhere else in Montreal. More details will be published in the forthcoming issue of the North American Filipino Star. See page 5 for report on Philippine Fashion Week. by Michael Davantes. www.filipinostar.org 13 November 2013 The North American Filipino Star If you can read, you can also learn how to write. Register now! Call 514-485-7861 The Best Writing Workshop is: • interactive • practical • insightful • authentic • multi-cultural • rewarding • stimullating • inspiring • exciting • memorable This workshop will help you develop a personal perspective that is important in discovering your hidden or latent abilities

Who is the workshop for? • open to all who write • anyone who needs to develop and use writing skills • professional writers, managers, novelists, business leaders, poets, lawyers, editors, professors, journalists, public speakers and anyone who needs to broaden their communication skills.

This is a breakthrough idea. The writing workshop experience plants a seed that grows each time you write, long after the weekend workshop has concluded. You will gain special insights that open your creative self as you continue to write. You will be able to set and achieve personal goals to: • learn new and useful methods of solving problems in writing • increase your power to know what you want to say Professor Isaac Goodine • increase your ability to put across persuasively what you have to say • enable you to see the actual relationship you have with your readers International Educator, Author of Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi, Editor & Publisher, The North American the book “Leaders Leading SEMINAR FEES: $495 (including taxes and materials) Filipino Star DURATION: 2 1/2 days - Friday evening, Saturday & Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Leaders”, has delivered many Director-General, Gilmore College Schedule: To be announced to registered participants workshops around the world. International Exec. Producer, Mabuhay Montreal TV WeWe areare seekinseekingg hehepatitispatitis C patientspatt forfor a clinicalclinical ttrialrial in MMontreal.

HelpHelp advanceadvance HepatitisHepa research.

MiMinMinglenglle wwith ith oother ther pparticipants during your visit.

BBenefitennefit fromfrom the eexpertisex of Algo’s doctors and clinical team.

ReceiveReceive an indemnityindemnityyp uupp ttoo $4000

EnrollEnroll inin our studiesstudies 14 The North American Filipino Star November 2013 Keep carbon business—and focus on core the Paul Yuzyk Award for commercial objectives within those From Page 5 Update on Philippines Multiculturalism, we recognize those markets,” said Minister Fast. “We will do who have shown dedication to monoxide out of DART will begin deploying from 8 this through vigorous and continual Wing Trenton, carrying much needed fostering integration and social your home trade promotion, supported by supplies and equipment into the affected cohesion in communities across ambitious trade policy. In short, this area. A second flight will follow the next Canada. I encourage all Canadians to new plan will play to our strengths and nominate a friend, colleague or Each year, Canadians die or become ill dy. ensure that all of Canada’s diplomatic volunteer worker who makes because of carbon monoxide (CO) “Our Government is proud of the assets are harnessed to support the outstanding efforts to build a stronger poisoning. men and women of the the Canadian pursuit of commercial success by Armed Forces and how quickly they have country.” Canadian companies and investors. We responded to meet our Government’s The award commemorates the Did you know? fully understand that when our intent to assist in relief efforts in the legacy of the late Senator Paul Yuzyk, While CO can be present in your home businesses succeed abroad, all Philippines,” said Minister Oliver. “Our who was a member of the Senate of at any time of the year, the risk of Canadians benefit from the jobs and Government will continue to work with Canada from February 1963 to July poisoning is greater in cold winter opportunities that are created at home.” international partners to determine what is 1986 and played a key role in the months. That's because homes in required to meet the urgent needs of the The plan will target three development of Canadian Canada are usually heated by Filipino people.” distinct types of markets:emerging multiculturalism policy. He has been furnaces, water heaters/boilers and “The CAF capabilities dedicated markets with broad Canadian interests; called the father of multiculturalism for wood stoves. If these devices are to Canada’s relief efforts remain flexible,” emerging markets with specific his early role in achieving policy improperly installed or malfunction, said General Thomas Lawson, Chief of opportunities for Canadian businesses; recognition for the “third force” of they can release CO into your home. the Defence Staff. “Our goal is to provide and established markets with broad the Government of Canada with a range Canadian society; that is, those who Canadian interests. Key elements of the were of neither British nor French Protect yourself and your family: of humanitarian assistance and relief Global Markets Action Plan include: options so that we are able to address descent. a new trade promotion plan that areas where the needs are the greatest.” One award is granted annually • Get a carbon monoxide detector. entrenches the concept of “economic The CAF component of to an individual or a group who The most important place to install a diplomacy” by focusing government Government of Canada’s relief efforts so demonstrates dedication to advancing detector is in hallways, outside of resources and services in order to far includes: intercultural understanding and the sleeping areas. You can use a marker maximize the success of Canada’s • 2 DND/CAF personnel as part of the integration of newcomers into to remind yourself when it was installed Interdepartmental Strategic Support Team commercial interests in key foreign Canadian society. Individuals are and when it should be replaced. markets; ensuring that Canada’s trade (ISST) • A CC-144 Challenger to transport nominated in one of two categories: policy tools are prioritized toward Outstanding Achievement or Lifetime • Maintenance is the key. Make this team to the Philippines initiatives that will yield the maximum Achievement. sure appliances such as furnaces, • 19 CAF personnel representing the economic benefits to Canadian workers The Outstanding Achievement fireplaces, gas stoves and water Humanitarian Assistance Response Team and businesses; sustained efforts to category recognizes an individual or heaters are well maintained and (HART) leverage Canada’s position as the only group who has recently made a inspected by a professional at least o The Humanitarian Assistance G-8 nation to have preferential access Reconnaissance Team (HART) deploys to significant contribution to promote and once a year. to the world’s two largest markets—the the affected nation with the ISST embrace Canada’s long tradition of European Union and the United immediately following a major disaster in peaceful pluralism. The Lifetime • No idling indoors. Don't let States—comprising more than 800 order to assist and give advice to the Achievement category honours an vehicles idle in the garage, especially million customers, and providing ISST on CAF capabilities and individual who has demonstrated the when the garage door is closed. Also, Canada with free trade access to over employment. Made up of headquarters same dedication over a period of at keep the doors between your house half of the entire global marketplace; staff and a reconnaissance element, the least ten years. and the garage closed. and renewed stakeholder linkages to HART liaises with the ISST and the For more information, please visit: ensure that government priorities are in headquarters of Canadian Joint The award recipient receives a http://healthycanadians.gc.ca/environ sync with the needs of businesses, and Operations Command (CJOC) in order to certificate of honour, signed by the ment-environnement/home- that the plan adapts to changes in the prepare for the arrival and employment of Minister, as well as the privilege to maison/monoxide-monoxyde-eng.php global economy. follow-on CAF assets. select an eligible, registered, not-for- Five-Year Target to Increase SMEs • 42 members of the DART, including medical, logistical, engineering profit Canadian organization to receive Exporting to Emerging Markets personnel, which will eventually prepare a $20,000 grant from the Government Harper Government The Global Markets Action Plan for the arrival of the main body and DART of Canada. The 2013 Paul Yuzyk Award will also set out how the government will Launches New capabilities that could deploy at a later recipient for Outstanding Achievement, work with Canada’s critical SME sector date; and Mr. Bashir Ahmed of Edmonton, International Trade to grow the sector’s footprint in • A CC-177 Globemaster to transport Alberta, selected the Somali Canadian emerging markets to meet the following Plan the advance element of the DART to the Education and Rural Development targets: Philippines. Organization to receive the federal Creating new jobs and Grow Canada’s SME export o The CC-177 helps provide grant. presence in emerging markets from 29 everything from the rapid delivery of opportunities for Canadians through Nominations for the 2014 Paul trade is the priority as Canada focuses percent to 50 percent by 2018. troops and cargo transport to oversized combat equipment from coast to coast to Yuzyk Award for Multiculturalism must its efforts on the specific markets and This would grow Canada’s SME coast and to anywhere else worldwide. It be postmarked by March 1, 2014. sectors that hold the greatest potential footprint in emerging markets from 11,000 to 21,000 companies. This has a maximum range of approximately More information on the Paul November 27, 2013 - The 5,500 nautical miles and can carry a Yuzyk award is available. Honourable Ed Fast, Minister of growth would create over 40,000 net new jobs. payload of up to 160,000 pounds (72, 727 International Trade, today released a kilograms).[Cmnt:PCO/bdCp1] Source: Export Development Canada A public service announcement about new trade plan that reflects the the award can be viewed on Citizenship changing global landscape, focuses on Economics. “In a fiercely competitive global and Immigration Canada’s YouTube core Canadian strengths, aligns Channel. Canada’s trade, development and economy, Canada cannot be foreign policy tools to advance complacent,” said Minister Fast. “We commercial interests around the world, must be more aggressive and effective Nominations now being than the intense competition we face as and sets concrete targets to grow the accepted for 2014 Paul Advertise on presence of Canada’s small and we advance Canada’s commercial interests in key global markets. This Yuzyk Award for Mabuhay Montreal TV medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in every Friday at 7 p.m. emerging markets. The comprehensive new plan represents a sea change in Multiculturalism report, entitled the Global Markets the way Canada’s diplomatic assets are Ottawa, November 25, 2013 ¾ and in its website deployed around the world, and in so Action Plan: The Blueprint for Creating Jason Kenney, Minister for www.mmtv.ca doing, we are ensuring that the Jobs and Opportunities for Canadians Multiculturalism, today invited commercial success of Canadian firms On the air soon Through Trade, was announced during Canadians to submit nominations for and investors is entrenched as one of a keynote speech Minister Fast the sixth annual Paul Yuzyk Award for ICI TV our core foreign policy objectives.” delivered to the Economic Club of Multiculturalism. Videotron Channels Canada in Ottawa. “Canada’s pluralism is a big 16, 616HD “Under the Global Markets part of what makes our country great, Action Plan, our government will and it’s important that we continue to Bellnet Fibe concentrate its efforts on markets that strengthen and promote it,” said 216/1216HD hold the greatest promise for Canadian Minister Kenney. “That is why, through www.filipinostar.org November 2013 The North American Filipino Star 15 are savory and round. Just turn on the television during the Christmas season and Philippine Cuisine you'll surely see advertisements of popular brands of Christmas ham. Lechon and Well-known boar buff Anthony Bourdain once called lechon the "best pig ever." Photo by Karen Flores, abs- Favorite Food cbnNEWS.com Whole lechon or roast pig is a Compiled by Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi popular choice for those who have more money to spare. Embutido A number of shops, however, sell ibingka is a yellow rice cake traditionally lechon per kilo, making the delicacy more made from rice flour, eggs, milk and sugar. accessible to Filipinos. It is brushed with butter, topped with either To cook lechon, a pig is skewered Filipino Holiday Food salted egg or cheese, and served with and hand-turned on a stick for hours. This niyog (grated coconut). results in crispy skin and succulent, tender The sweet and salty bibingka has meat. a soft and fluffy texture similar to puto, Lechon is perfect with sarsa another Filipino rice cake, and is eaten (gravy). But its Cebu counterpart, lechon warm. Cebu, is better eaten as is or dipped in Most Filipinos prefer buying vinegar and fish sauce. bibingka because making one can be time- A sauce-based dish and a consuming. The traditional way of cooking meatloaf. These embutido are both sweet bibingka requires a terra cotta pot lined and savory. Photo by Karen Flores, abs- with banana leaves, heated coals, and lots cbnNEWS.com of patience and energy. Whether it be caldereta (a rich Puto bumbong, on the other tomato-based stew), kare-kare (peanut hand, literally translates to steamed stew) or callos (a stew with tripe, sausage glutinous rice (puto) cooked in bamboo and chickpeas), a sauce-based dish is (bumbong). always part of any Filipino family's dining table on noche buena. Add to that a meatloaf -- there has got to be someone in the family who will prepare his or her version of morcon (beef roll stuffed with eggs, sausages and

Bibingka Fruit Salad BUSINESS HOURS The purple color of the rice cake Mon. Tue. Wed. 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. comes from the pirurutong, a variety of Thu. Fri. 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. glutinous rice. Puto bumbong is almost Pancit Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. bland, but it tastes better when eaten with Sunday Closed butter, niyog and brown sugar. cheese) or embutido (a meat roll, which Like bibingka, making puto comes in chicken and pork). Picnic Ham w/bone The meatloaf is covered in Beef bumbong at home can be quite a Pork loin Blade steak challenge. The process requires soaking aluminum foil, steamed and baked. The Approximately the rice overnight, drying it, putting it inside dish is soft and tasty, and goes well with 99 .69 rice. 15 lbs . lb lb specialized bamboo tubes and steaming it. 4 2 Because of this, many Filipinos Pancit or spaghetti .00 opt to buy puto bumbong from stalls This pancit topped with sliced egg and 3 lb Boneless Pork shoulder - Bone-in shoulder chops calamansi is more than enough to feed the $2.89 lb 3.19 lb family. Blame it all on superstition. Half or Whole pork Fresh Pork Leg Cut & Wrapped Home smoked Holding on to the Chinese belief meat that noodles bring long life, Filipinos have .89 always made it a point to serve pancit, 2 lb 99 spaghetti, or any other similar dish during 29 . lb 2. lb Beef 7 special occasions, which include the short ribs noche buena. 49 Regular smoked bacon It is hard to prove that noodles . lb can make a person live longer. But one Fresh Pork Belly 6 thing's for sure: pancit and spaghetti sure with skin Ground Beef 49 Hamon and Keso de Bola taste good. . lb Fruit salad 5 outside churches, restaurants, malls and It's impossible not to see a bowl of 50 49 fruit salad in a Filipino family's noche . lb . lb Ground Pork specialty shops. 4 4 Hamon and queso de bola buena table. Photo by Karen Flores, abs- Over 20 lbs 4.29 lb Special 2.59/lb Hamon and queso de bola are cbnNEWS.com traditionally served together. Photo by Anyone can guarantee that every Karen Flores, abs-cbnNEWS.com Filipino family has fruit salad on their dinner St.Chrysostome St. Remi St. Edouard table during noche buena. Frozen pork blood For Filipinos, Christmas is not Napierville Each family has its own version of Fresh liver Sherrington complete without queso de bola, that Barrington the dessert -- some have corn, while others Pork skin familiar ball of cheese wrapped in red 203 219 202 Lacolle include prunes. A number of families even Hemmingford paraffin wax; and hamon, the local version Jackso Sortie replace cream with mayonnaise. Havelock n Road Exit No.6 of the Western meat product. Goat Canada Parc But the main ingredients stay -- Class 15 The sharp and salty cheese, Available 219 Safari Covey Hill Road made from partly skimmed cows' or goats' nata de coco (coconut gel), kaong (sugar on order palm fruit), pineapple, apple, banana, Boucherie Viau Inc. U. S. A. milk, is cut into triangles and eaten with Malone crackers, pan de sal or any type of bread cherry, mango, and other fruits included in Moders Champlain and, of course, hamon slices. a can of the ever reliable fruit cocktail. 83 Covey Hill, Hemmingford QC J0L 1H0 Hamon, meanwhile, comes in Sweet and refreshing, fruit salad is easy to make and is not too expensive. Tel.: (450) 247- 2130 or (450) 247- 3561 different sizes, shapes, glazes and flavors. Some are sweet and pear-shaped, others (ABS-CBN News)

www.filipinostar.org 16 The North American Filipino Star November 2013 FILIPINO STAR S H O W B I Z G O S S I P Anne Curtis sells clothes to Int’l artists donate songs for help Yolanda victims Philippine relief album

This Sept. 21, 2013, file photo shows Bruno Mars performing at IHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas, Nev. Mars’ “Count on Me” is part of a collection of 39 hits for “Songs of the Philippines,” available on iTunes to raise money for disaster relief efforts in the Philippines. Actress Anne Curtis helped orders and to personally meet the raised money for the victims of actress. Dozens of top stars have donated go to the Philippine Red Cross. songs to an album aimed at raising Thousands were killed, injured super typhoon Yolanda in the In an update given by the funds for typhoon disaster relief in the and displaced by Supertyphoon Visayan region. Kapamilya star on Monday, she Philippines. “Yolanda” (international name: The “It’s Showtime” host disclosed that they were able to Songs by The Beatles, Bob Dylan, “Haiyan”) earlier this month and conducted an impromptu garage raised P370,000 from the one-time Beyonce, U2 and Bruno Mars are officials have struggled to keep up sale Sunday afternoon at the event. among the 39 donated to “Songs for with humanitarian aid demands. Market Market in Taguig City. Anne said the sale was just a the Philippines,” available for The compilation album has a little purchase Monday at iTunes and for of everything, from the disturbing streaming on iTunes Radio. images of a live version of Eminem’s The artists, record companies and “Stan” to the calming effect of The music publishers have agreed to Beatles’ “Let It Be.” a donate all proceeds. The money will Arnel Pineda, Journey to donate 2M food packs to Yolanda victims

Anne’s beau Erwan Heussaff was also present along with Anne’s sister to help out. The lead vocalist of international these poor people don’t deserve to band “Journey” has announced that he have something like this,” Pineda said. Anne, with the help of her small gesture to help her and his band mates would donate two Meanwhile, Journey is also younger sibling Jasmine Curtis- compatriots in need. million food meals to victims of donating $350,000 to help relief efforts Smith and boyfriend Erwann “What I did today is nowhere Supertyphoon “Yolanda” (international in the Philippines. Funds will go to the Heussaff, sold old clothes, shoes, near enough. So much more has name: Haiyan), a CNN report said. United Nations World Food bags and other items she used to be done to help,” she added. Filipino vocalist Arnel Pineda said Programme which will provide 1.4 through the years in the “My clothes would have been his foundation was working to aid the million meals to the super typhoon entertainment business. useless to these people. The victims of the world’s worst typhoon victims. Dubbed as “S-Anne Day money raised can go towards that battered the Visayas and parts of In a statement, Pineda referenced Mindanao last week. the group’s famous “Believin’” song Garage Sale,” the event was water, food and medicine! “I just do what I can do to be one and said “help is on the way” and told attended by hundreds of her fans. Immediate relief,” she posted on of the people who make a difference,” his homeland, “Do not Stop Believin.” Some of those who rallied to Twitter. said Pineda in an interview with CNN Journey is also calling on fans to the mall to help support Anne’s Proceeds of the said sale will reporter Anderson Cooper. donate to the cause. a cause patiently waited for two to go directly to World Vision “You don’t have to be a hero… three hours just to place their Philippines. a www.filipinostar.org November 2013 The North American Filipino Star 17 More than the victory, stars salute Pacquiao’s ways inside the ring “I’m proud na naipakita niya na Kinabahan lang ako in the referring to the back-to-back we don’t take advantage, that we beginning pero kayang kaya naman calamities in the Philippines in still care for others no matter what is niya. Congrats!” recent weeks namely the “Yolanda” happening to us. Tayong mga TV host-model Marc Nelson who super typhoon and Bohol Pilipino, mababaw talaga ang has watched Pacquiao’s fights in earthquake. kaligayahan but this one, it’s big Las Vegas several times in the past, Businessman, host and time happiness. Nagkakataon thinks Manny is “fitter, more occasional actor RJ Ledesma, who once stormed out of a Pacquiao fight when he lost, summed up his feelings in two words: “Finally, redemption.” “I couldn’t sit down throughout the fight. My nervousness came from the fact that he had ‘Yolanda’ in his mind, which could serve both as distraction and inspiration. But he won and as always, the nation Like everywhere else in the stopped for Manny Pacquiao.” country and maybe even worldwide, He noted the seeming people knew Manny Pacquiao had advantage Rios has over Pacquiao, won the fight against Brandon Rios including age difference, height, on Sunday some several rounds in, Marc Nelson, Pops Fernandez, RJ Ledesma resistance and arms’ reach. definitely way before it was officially “Pero kita nyo naman, di ba? Iba announced. talaga na pag may pinagdadaanan focused, definitely in better shape” ang Pinoy.” At the celebrity press screening tayo, nasusundan ng victory. There this time. The screening at Solaire Resort held inside the Grand Ballroom of is always hope,” she said. “I’m a big Pacquiao fan ever & Casino had actual boxing ring set Solaire Resort & Casino on Nov. 24, Singer Pops Fernandez echoed since. And even though he’s always up, high-def stadium cube screens, TV5 talent Eula Caballero pointed the sentiment, adding, “We needed dedicated his fights to the Filipino live commentators, live ring girls, out that more than the triumph, this, we all needed this lalo na when people, this time he gave even more live barkers, live performers and Pacquiao showing the world the times are down. Sa lahat ng rounds, effort knowing that we’re in the food and drinks. a stuff Pinoys are made of is priceless. ang ganda ng delivery niya. middle of heartache,” said he Freddie Aguilar charged with child abuse Lawyer amends qualified seduction complaint They claimed that he took nothing else to do,” he added. advantage of his popularity to Aguilar said that Autonomous influence the minor and “exploit” her Region in Muslim Mindanao Gov. innocence, adding that the couple’s Esmael Mangudadatu could attest to admission that they were living his marriage on Friday to his under one roof meant that she was teenage girlfriend. The couple had exposed to sexual abuse. to convert to Islam in order to get At the same time, the “parents of married with the ceremony held in the minor… are liable for violation of Buluan, Maguindanao. Article 340 (of the Revised Penal Mangudadatu acted as the girl’s Code) for corruption of a minor…. godfather and gave her away. They were also willing to have their Aguilar added that he had been child groped by her predator…; they advised by his lawyer against are corrupting their own child,” they attending the preliminary added. investigation of the case filed against However, they stressed that the him. He also said that nobody complaint was not aimed at received the subpoena from the city “personally castigating” Aguilar but prosecutor’s office and his lawyer to discourage would-be violators was not provided a copy of the Saying he wanted to teach Peter Sesbreño and Christine Joy and “let everyone respect the laws complaint either. music icon Freddie Aguilar a lesson, Bangalisan. They all listed their [on] children and women.” “Why should I attend when I do a lawyer on Monday amended his address as 31 Ibay St., Quezon City. Aguilar has yet to attend a not even know the specifics of that complaint against the 60-year-old According to Perito, they wanted preliminary investigation hearing lawyer’s charge against me?” he folk singer who recently wed his 16- to “educate” Aguilar on the scheduled by the prosecutor’s office said. year-old girlfriend from qualified “legalities [of] child abuse and on the qualified seduction charge. Last year, Perito asked the seduction to child abuse. corruption of minors” as well as to The second hearing was set Senate impeachment court to cite The seven-page amended remind the singer that he should yesterday but this was reset to Dec. House members who acted as complaint against Aguilar which was “behave responsibly in society and 9 with the prosecutor saying that prosecutors against then Chief submitted to Quezon City Assistant obey our laws on children and should the singer fail to appear, the Justice Corona, for contempt for Prosecutor Edgardo Saplala also women.” complaint would be considered presenting their evidence before the charged the girl’s parents with The complainants said the submitted for resolution. trial to media. The complaint was set corruption of a minor since they musician should be held criminally “We are already married. What is aside. allowed her to be exploited by a liable under Republic Act No. 7610 that guy’s problem anyway?” Aguilar In 2011, he asked the Supreme “predator.” or the Special Protection of Children said when reached by the Inquirer Court to disbar Davao City Mayor The original complaint against Against Child Abuse, Exploitation yesterday. Sara Duterte after she punched a Aguilar was filed by lawyer Fernando and Discrimination Act for his “The country has so many other court sheriff. a Perito last month. This time, he was relationship with the girl who was 44 problems so why focus on me? That joined by two other complainants, years his junior. person is pitiful. It seems he has More Showbiz Gossip p.18 www.filipinostar.org 18 The North American Filipino Star November 2013 Showbiz Gossip Continued from p.17 Comedy flick stars Pokwang Luis moves on, remains ‘happy’ as 'Call Center Girl' after split Subong, plays the title character in the Don Cuaresma-directed movie "Call Center Girl," which is part the 20th anniversary line-up of the ABS-CBN film production outfit. In a teaser for the film, Pokwang as her character is seen adjusting to her job in the BPO industry. Implied to be a mother, the character appears to brings wit and her somewhat offending humor to work. During an apparent call from a customer, she says, "Are you sad, feeling lonely? Still single because you're fat?" Luis Manzano is “happy” these understanding and supportive. When days, saying that he is moving on from we had our short family vacation in The role is Pokwang's first lead his recent heartbreak. Japan for her recent birthday, she character portrayal since "A Reports of the Kapamilya host- asked me, ‘O anak, magbakasyon Mother's Story," which was actor’s split with girlfriend of almost tayo, may isasama ka na ba?’ Sabi ko, released in November 2011. After “Call Center Girl” stars Jessy Mendiola two years Jennylyn Mercado broke in ‘Wala. Teka naman muna, momsie, (left), Pokwang (center) & Enchong Dee. the acclaimed drama film, the October. hihinga muna ko.’” comedienne co-starred in four Months after, Luis sheds a positive The “Minute To Win It” host partly After the success of the big- other movies, including the outlook as seen in his work credits his current “happy” state of romance anthology "24/7 In Love." engagements and TV shows. mind to his mom. “Pagdating sa mga screen drama "A Mother's Story," “I’m happy… Believe it or not, personal kong issues, hindi siya talaga Pokwang is set to topbill a movie "Call Center Girl," which also every smile you see in me is genuine. nakikialam. Ang lagi lang niyang anew, this time as a call center stars Jessy Mendiola and Things happen for a reason. Always sinasabi, don’t dwell on the pain, just agent in a Star Cinema comedy Enchong Dee, is expected to hit look at the brighter side of life. Life is count your blessings. And I’m counting offering. cinemas later this year. a too short to sulk or feel sad,” he said in my blessings kaya nga I’m happy.” The 43-year-old actress, a report posted on Showbiz Portal. The 32-year-old actor also sees her whose real name is Marietta Noting that he and the Kapuso star as “the only constant woman in my life” is indeed moving on, Luis maintained and that he would marry someone with his stance in keeping the reason the same characteristics as her behind the split private. “Naku, sa amin someday. na lang ’yun. Basta we’re both moving He explained, “Nakikita ko si on. I can’t say anything negative mommy bilang isang mabuting asawa. against her.” So, definitely gusto ko, ’yung magiging Luis wants to take a break from asawa ko, dapat lang na may having a romantic relationship. He characteristics na nakikita ko sa kanya added that his mother, Batangas bilang isang ina at asawa. So, ba’t pa Governor and Star for All Seasons ako lalayo ng peg kung nasa bahay Vilma Santos, is very supportive of him. lang namin ang role model ko, ’di ba?” He said, “She’s always Kim Kardashian’s 10% ‘Yolanda’ donation hit critical health services on remote islands where families are struggling to access medical care and basic resources like food, clean drinking water and vital medications, Kardashian wrote in her website. According to businessinsider.com, the 10 percent “portion” is part of the fine print associated with the online selling of products including Marc Jacobs, Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, and Prada. The 33-year-old has a reported net Kim Kardashian worth of $40 million and earned $10 Reality television star Kim million this year alone was bashed as Kardashian is under flak after she conducting her auction as a “publicity revealed that only 10 percent of the stunt” by her own fans. proceeds from her eBay auction will be One fan wrote, “If this is true, I feel donated to the survivors of you are using the victims of that Supertyphoon “Yolanda.” disaster for your own personal gain.” Kardashian wrote in her website Another wrote, “It would seem that how “a portion of the proceeds are you can afford to sell off some of your going to International Medical Corps,” used personal items, and then donate little did people know, the “portion” the complete profit to these poor was a mere tenth of the earnings from unfortunate victims instead of using her eBay auction. them to profit yourself.” International Medical Corps is a nonprofit organization that provides www.filipinostar.org November 2013 The North American Filipino Star 19 Rachelle Ann Go in ‘Miss Saigon’ revival

The first message of interested in Gigi? I said yes right congratulations that Rachelle Ann Go away,” she recalled. “I don’t care if the received was from Lea Salonga. role is big or small. I don’t even care Go, producer Cameron about the talent fee. I just want to be Mackintosh announced in an interview part of the production because I know with British media on Friday, had won it will lead to more opportunities and the role of Gigi in the West End revival help me grow as an artist.” of “Miss Saigon,” the same production that catapulted Salonga to international stardom in 1989 when she played the lead character, Kim. Salonga’s Twitter message came way ahead of everyone else’s, Go told the Inquirer in a phone interview: “It was the first thing I saw when I woke up. I feel pressured but I am also excited about this.” Go will join another homegrown talent, Jon Jon Briones, who has been Rachelle Ann Go Rachelle Ann at final casting call cast as The Engineer, and Filipino- good news would lift the spirits of theater experience compared to American Eva Noblezada, 17, from Filipinos still reeling from the others. I played sweet girls in my North Carolina, who bagged the lead devastation of Supertyphoon previous plays. In ‘Miss Saigon,’ the Salonga told Go the training she’d role. “Yolanda.” “Any piece of good news is roles would be more daring.” get in “Miss Saigon” would be Along with Salonga, Briones was a source of inspiration.” And then Salonga sent her a “priceless.” part of the original West End cast of A few more Filipinos in the cast are private message on Twitter: “Why don’t Singer-actress Isay Alvarez, who “Miss Saigon.” He played The expected to be announced in the you audition? You won’t lose anything originally played Gigi in the 1989 Engineer in Germany as well as in the coming days. if you try.” production, also sent Go a production’s tours around the United Go said: “We hope to give Filipinos Explaining her message, Salonga congratulatory message. States, United Kingdom and Asia. He one reason to smile in these trying said: “I saw her in ‘Little Mermaid’ and “Miss Isay said I would enjoy my was also in the musical’s Philippine times. We hope to make them proud.” she glowed onstage. I knew she’d do stay in London,” said Go, who will stay staging in 2000. Go, now 27, has been joining well in the ‘Miss Saigon’ audition.” in London for a year. amateur singing contests since she Salonga’s words finally convinced “I will be living alone, far from my Worldwide search was 11 years old and topped the reality Go to try her luck. family,” she said. “I will have to take the As they did 24 years ago, Filipinos talent show “Search for a Star” in 2004. Almost a year after, she thought train on my own. I will have to learn landed major roles after a worldwide she didn’t make it “since others had how to cook and do the laundry. I’ll search for cast members in the Reluctant already received word about further learn to be independent.” Claude-Michel Schonberg and Alain Although a veteran of singing try-outs” and she hadn’t. Boublil musical, which will be revived competitions, she was initially reluctant Dance lessons in West End in May 2014. to join the “Miss Saigon” auditions in Final casting call First thing on Go’s to-do list? Hit “It’s heartwarming … Twenty four Manila in November 2012 despite Then came the e-mail about the the gym. “I need to be fit to wear a years ago, Miss Lea and other Filipinos encouragement from friends, including final casting call in London early this bikini. I plan to do cardio,” she said. made it. Now, they are tapping theater director Bobby Garcia. Garcia month. She also plans to take dance Filipinos again,” said Go. had directed Go in two local During the final audition, Go was lessons, as advised by the show’s Agreed Salonga: “Three Filipinos productions of Disney plays: “Little asked the make-or-break question. choreographer. “I’ll enroll in jazz in principal roles. What can I say? Mermaid” and “Tarzan.” “They explained that I was not the right classes,” Go said, adding that We’re amazing.” She hoped this bit of Said Go: “I don’t have much age for Kim … but would I be rehearsals will begin in March. a Rocco Nacino thrives in diversity Rocco Nacino is so busy these Emotionally daunting days he doesn’t have enough time What was it like portraying a for himself or his family—but, it’s the desaparecido in the Jonas Burgos kind of “problem” he appreciates: biopic? He discloses, “It was On the big screen, he made life a emotionally daunting. His brothers living hell for Marian Rivera and became my barkada. It was hard to Richard Gutierrez in “My Lady Boss,” take part in the movie’s depiction of was cast as a missing activist in his abduction, because his family Cinemalaya 2013’s closing film, was there during the shoot, and I “Burgos,” played a closeted would see them cry—especially in homosexual infatuated with his the scene where he says goodbye to homophobic best friend in “I Luv U, his mother (played by Lorna Pare Ko,” and portrays the second Tolentino).” Filipino saint in the upcoming Metro Rocco basks in the diversity of Manila film fest entry, “Pedro the characters he plays. What is his Calungsod: Batang Martir.” most challenging role so far? He Rocco Nacino portrays St. Pedro Calungsod in upcoming MMFF entry answers, “Each has its challenges— Busy as a bee p.m.), which tackles its guests’ ‘aware,’ to be more precise. Ever but, I find playing San Pedro various psychological disorders. since I played the idealistic, 35-year- Calungsod emotionally and Rocco is also as busy as a bee The 27-year-old actor beams, old public servant, people have been physically tiring, because of the on TV: He portrayed beleaguered “I’m thrilled to take on this hosting calling me ‘Mayor’ and asking me to amount of training it requires, and Mayor Joseph Santiago in the gig because the subject matter it seek public office—but, politics isn’t the spiritual credibility you need to CMMA-winning political drama tackles is right up my alley.” The for me.” convey. series, “Bayan Ko,” a bida- actor finished a degree in nursing The second season of the series “I had to learn Spanish, Cebuano kontrabida in the teleserye, “Akin Pa before he placed second in the will tackle more relevant issues, like and Latin, and I’m taking voice Rin Ang Bukas,” and expands his network’s popular talent search, the pork barrel scam and an lessons, because I need to sing performing range as cohost of GMA “Starstruck.” assassination attempt on Mayor some Latin hymns—and, more than 7’s latest Public Affairs show, “Out of Has “Bayan Ko” made him more Santiago’s life. anything, I need to find his spirituality Control” (starting today, Nov. 23, at 4 political? Rocco replies, “Politically to be believable in the role!” a www.filipinostar.org 20 The North American Filipino Star November 2013 The North American FILIPINO STAR PHOTO GALLERY 60th Anniversary, Lions Club International Montreal Westward Lions Club chapter Holiday Inn Select, November 2, 2013

Souvenir photo with Benjamin Bade, Lions Club president, with other officers and guests At the end of the party, officers and members of the Montreal Westward Lions Club pose with during the 60th anniversary of Lions Club International, November 2, 2013 their president, Benjamin Bade, and wife Magnolia Camat, (2nd and 3rd from the right). 2nd Anniversary of the Filipino Youth Center and 10th Anniversary of the Fellowship Bible Baptist Church (FBBC) November 10, 2013

Presentation of a gift to the Borough Mayor, Lionel Perez, by Pastor Orlan Racacho, The Youth Choir singing religious hymns during the 2nd anniversary of the Youth Center, during the anniversary celebration held on November 10, 2013. November 10, 2013 St. Wilbrord Parish Fund Raising Drive for Yolanda Victims November 16, 2013

Souvenir photo with some Gilmore College students, Rosa Basilan, and St. Wilbrord Parish priest acknowledging the volunteers who organized the fund raising drive for Yolanda victims Maribeth Sernal, posing with Zenaida Kharroubi, their teacher, at the by having an evening of Philippine cultural dances, through the Salinggawi dance troupe. St. Wilbrord Parish fund raising drive. November 2013 The North American Filipino Star 21 catalog their wines and record tasting Here, too, Robinson is hopeful. Without question, consumers are notes. So LeVine made his program growing increasingly comfortable available to everyone, for free. “I hated it when it was the tyranny dismissing those gatekeepers who sit “on The website has become of the points,” she said. “I think it affected a pedestal, haughtily handing down extremely popular, with nearly 1 million American retailers particularly badly, who judgments.” That’s why the future of wine monthly visitors. Each day, more than for a long time gave up their own selection in America is so bright. 2,000 wines are reviewed on the site. This process and palates and just rolled over David White is the founder iand means CellarTracker users review more and repeated what [Robert Parker's] Wine editor of Terrorist.com which wasnamed wines every six days than Robert Parker, Advocate and Wine Spectator said. What’s “Best Overall Wine Blog” at the 2015 Wine the world’s most famous wine critic, the fun of that? They were abdicating Bllog Awards. His columns are housed at reviews in an entire year. responsibility, really, for wine selection.” Palate Press. The Online Magazine (Palate CellarTracker isn’t just used by Already, more and more wine Press) oenophiles. About nine in ten visitors are retailers are eschewing points. These unregistered, meaning regular consumers shops stock their shelves with handpicked Advertise in the North visit the site for wine reviews. This wines — and they’re staffed with wine American Filipino Star demonstrates that fewer and fewer educators who are eager to chat with consumers are relying on prominent customers. 514-485-7861 critics to tell them what they should or shouldn’t drink. honey and ice cider, to art, clothing and t’s no wonder why Alder Yarrow, From Page 5 Botanical Garden accessories created from recycled objects, the wine writer behind Vinography.com, to divine orchids, the twenty or so A Consumer celebrated “the CellarTracker age” during At the end of the greenhouse trail, sip on exhibitors at the Fair bring you a great Revolution in Wine a recent appearance on I’ll Drink to That warm herbal tea all the way from the Great variety of quality foods and objects to spoil with Levi Dalton, a popular podcast. While North at the Biodiversity Centre’s 1000 your loved ones or to offer as original and David White discussing the waning impact of critics Days for the Planet Base Camp while much appreciated gifts! October 30, 2013 like Robert Parker and publications like learning how antlers are used as To make sure you don’t miss any “This democratization of wine is Wine Spectator, Yarrow praised the communication tools, as naturalist Gisèle of the activities or events happening at the great,” asserted Jancis Robinson, one of multiplicity of voices that now populate the Benoit reveals in her moving documentary Montréal Space for Life, choose one of our the world’s leading wine authorities, over wine world. In the Company of Moose, screened on packages—you will have 31 days to coffee one recent morning. “There are thousands of weekends between December 7 and 22. explore each of our spaces! Robinson was in Washington, opinions… and people like me all over the A Christmas Fair with taste! Information (packages, rates, schedules): D.C., to promote the seventh edition of The States and all over the world are [now] A popular event for gourmets and espacepourlavie.ca World Atlas of Wine, the indispensable accepted as critical authorities on wine.” appreciators of objets d’art, the Christmas Contact our team reference book co-authored with Hugh In addition to CellarTracker, these Fair is back this year, on the weekends of Karine Jalbert Johnson. “critical authorities” are sharing their December 6 to 8 and December 13 to 15. Communications Co-ordinator Robinson has spent the last four thoughts on personal blogs, message From organic, biological and ecological 514 872-1453/ 514 250-3230 decades writing about wine, publishing boards, and social media platforms like products, artisan-produced chocolate, thousands of reviews. Yet while chatting Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. about wine criticism, she seemed excited While some of these authorities about the prospect of consumers putting are like Yarrow — i.e., well-known wine less stock in her opinion. writers with large audiences — many are “No longer are wine critics and simply influential, local voices, like the reasonably well-known wine writers like me staffer at the neighborhood wine shop, the sitting on a pedestal, haughtily handing hip restaurant sommelier, or the wine geek down our judgments,” she said. in everyone’s life. “Nowadays… [consumers] can make up Many amateur critics — and their own minds. That’s altogether a lot virtually all CellarTracker users — continue healthier.” to utilize a 100-point scale to “score” To hear Robinson so eagerly wines. But as the number of wine critics applaud the declining influence of increases, one can only assume that the prominent critics was refreshing. reliance on points will diminish. This, too, In the optimistic future of will be a positive development. American wine, well-informed consumers will be confident in their own preferences After all, tasting is subjective, and one and eager to explore without consulting a critic’s 95-point wine is another critic’s professional critic. Already, we’re well on swill. That’s why it can sometime seem as our way. if every wine on a supermarket’s shelf has Just look at CellarTracker. been awarded 90 points or more. Such In 2003, Eric LeVine, a wine pronouncements only make sense when 1265 O”Brien, V.St-Laurent, Mtl, H4L 2W1 - Tel.: 514-747-3533 collector, built a data-management they’re coming from a critic whose palate Opens: Tuesday to Friday 9 hr to 18:00 hr / Saturday 9 hr to 17:00 hr program for his cellar. His friends soon you trust. Closed Sunday and Monday begged him to share it online so they could The North American Filipino Star Classified Ads ADVERTISING CLEANERS CONSTRUCTION LANGUAGES Classified ads - Renovations, Bricks, Cement English, French, Spanish, Office cleaners for West Island, car Mandarin, Filipino (Tagalog) cheapest way to needed, work Mon-Fri after 6 pm RBQ No. 5663-2417-01 JDT CONSTRUCTION, INC. Beginners, Intermediate, Advance Michael call 514-624-3437 Toefel Preparation, Small advertise! Insured & Certified Contractor groups or semi-private Send your text to 10 years experience COMPUTERS courses, [email protected] Free Estimate Call 514-485-7861 Classified ads must be prepaid. Keyboarding (Touch Typing) Jonathan - 514-994-8805 First 3 lines = $10 45 hours - $225, Computer WANTED Additional lines - $2 per line Literacy - 9 h - $90 (tax incl.) LAUNDROMAT Heading counted as 2 lines. Hands-on training, Tax credits Live-in Caregiver, Childcare call 514-485-7861 PALABAHANG PILIPINO Please call: Jacob Haimovici ART OF DRIVING LMKD Buanderie et Nettoyeur Dufferin, Hampstead 514-481-0052 Art de Conduire DRIVING 5865 Decarie Boulevard Certified Driving School (Between Bourret & Van Horne) SEC. NEEDED 514-419-8280 Cell: 514-815-2873 Licensed driving instructor Open 7 days Complete driving course, 24 hrs Drop off laundry service [email protected] For art gallery downtown theory & 15 hrs road practice, $25/h. Call Meriam or Lacson 4755 av. Van Horne Suite 106 Montreal Exam car available. Tel. 514-777-9743 (Plamondon Metro) Call Dave 514-578-1494 Mr. Reza, Certified Instructor Jason 514-691-1816. www.filipinostar.org 22 The North American Filipino Star November 2013 Trillanes who’s got to be the youngest Committee, the court of public opinion. Miriam tags “Tanda” senator at that time… So, if it’s Enrile What the public’s ruling may be, who’s the most guilty in this, you might and what it will do to the case, we just By Joyce Ilas confused as to whether to stay loyal to as well say so now, for your own sake have to wait and see in the coming days. Solar News the lawmakers with whom she allegedly and to stay alive).” For his part, after maintaining had dubious PDAF dealings or to save Enrile, along with Senators his silence on the pork barrel scandal for The ambivalent and evasive her own neck. Jinggoy Estrada and Ramon Revilla, are several weeks, Senate Minority Floor demeanor of PDAF scandal suspect Santiago inquired into Napoles’ presently facing plunder charges filed by Leader Juan Ponce Enrile broke his Janet Lim-Napoles at the Senate Blue humble beginnings in Basilan and her the Office of the Ombudsman for reticence Thursday after his name Ribbon Committee hearing on the pork life before she acquired what she claims allegedly channeling millions of pesos cropped up once more in the Blue barrel farce leads Senator Miriam were her coal and real estate from their PDAF to alleged sham Ribbon Committee hearing. Santiago to assert that there’s got to be businesses. beneficiary non-government Enrile said he felt compelled to a bigger name behind the P10 billion Napoles’ reply, “I invoke my organizations operated by Napoles. issue a statement, lest his silence be caper involving the Priority Development right against self-incrimination,” led Santiago and Enrile had a major falling construed as an admission of guilt. Fund. Santiago to conclude that somebody out early this year, after it was exposed He stated that some members that the former Senate President gave of the committee used the Blue Ribbon away cash gifts to all senators except his hearing to make baseless charges and four critics. accusations, thus transforming the investigation into a parody of justice. One of them was Santiago. Enrile said senators should ferret out the truth and come up with a Santiago said that, because she fair and just conclusion, instead of believes Napoles does not seem to be manipulating the facts toward a the most guilty in the pork barrel predetermined result. scandal, she was strongly advising the Enrile maintained that he is latter to consider applying to be a state innocent, and so are his staff and office. witness. He called on Napoles to reveal In Filipino, Santiago said: “You the whole truth no matter who may be are protecting the person who might hurt. turn out to be the most guilty. If this Meanwhile, Senator Revilla’s reaches the court, your lawyer should legal counsel Joel Bodegon said ask for you to be made state witness. It Napoles’ testimony was significant for means that if you tell all that you know, his client as it did not show that Senator you won’t go to jail. It’s like you will be Revilla had any transactions with absolved, acquitted. You won’t have to Napoles. The senators tried many tactics, bigger is behind the whole thing: “Hindi go through the proceedings. As long as During the hearing, Napoles but, in the end, Napoles managed to makayanan ng high school graduate you reveal everything, you’re considered had denied personally knowing and remain tight-lipped as the Senate Blue yan kahit gaano siya katalinog tao (It’s a no longer at fault, found innocent.” transacting with Revilla, Estrada, and Ribbon Committee probed her alleged stretch to think that a high school Santiago also urged Napoles to Enrile. involvement in the P10 billion pork barrel graduate could come this far this way) perpetuate her testimony or to submit a She even said that she feels scandal. … This is not a fairy tale.” written testimony to the court. That way, sorry for the three senators who were Neither intimidation nor the threat of Santiago did not have to think she can stave off any threat to her life being dragged into the pork barrel scam being charged with perjury seemed to twice to name who she thought was the because, then, the implicated legislators mess. work on Napoles. mastermind behind the pork barrel would no longer have reason to want her However, Senate Blue Ribbon Senator Miriam Defensor- scam: the so-called “Senator Tanda,” dead as she would have already spilled Committee Chairman TG Guingona said Santiago said that getting information alluding to Juan Ponce Enrile, the most the beans. he believes otherwise, underscoring that from Napoles was not the purpose of the senior senator, “… kaya sino pa ang “These people are murderous. Napoles’ statements provided a stark investigation, and added that Napoles pangalanan mo ng ‘Tanda’ … alangan They’re not only homicidal, they are contrast between her general denials seemed pre-determined not to reveal itong si Senator Trillanes dahil siya yata murderous. They are planning your and the positive assertions of the whistle any material information anyway. ang pinakabata nung panahon, kaya murder,” Santiago told Napoles. blowers that were replete with specific Even though Napoles dodged inaangkop ng tao sa kanyang sitwasyon While it may take years before details. most of the senators’ questions, … kaya kung si Enrile ang the most the court can rule on Napoles’ guilt, by Santiago said her body language guilty, sabihin mo na ngayon, para now, another court has surely made its http://www.solarnews.ph/news/2013/11/ already spoke volumes, hinting further malibre ka na at hindi ka niya ipapatay decision after seeing Napoles 07/miriam-tags-tanda#.Uo3HoI0Zz9A that her evasiveness may tellingly mean (So who else should we associate with comportment before the Blue Ribbon that she fears for her life, or was the moniker ‘Tanda’? Can’t be Senator

A welcome sign remains standing in the city. By Aurea Calica to rebuild Tacloban City and other disaster- The Philippine Star hit areas. He also approved the release of MANILA, Philippines – With many P1.1 billion in quick response funds for the areas still cut off and people resorting to Department of Social Welfare and looting as supplies run low in typhoon-hit Development (DSWD) as well as the areas, President Aquino yesterday Department of Public Works and Highways declared a state of national calamity. (DPWH) to immediately bring relief to the The declaration will enable the victims of the tragedy. government to respond more effectively to In Proclamation No. 682 that he the devastation from monster Typhoon issued, Aquino said the state of national Yolanda that whipped Eastern Visayas last calamity would hasten the rescue, Friday. recovery, relief and rehabilitation efforts of In a televised address, Aquino the government and the private sector, appealed for public understanding as he including international humanitarian announced that the national government assistance. Aquino said. directed to undertake all necessary would take the lead in efforts to help the “This declaration will, among Proclamation 682 was in measures to ensure peace and order in victims instead of just assisting local others, effectively control the prices of accordance with Republic Act No. 10121 affected areas, as may be necessary,” officials. basic goods and commodities for the or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction Aquino said in his proclamation. Noting that the devastation was affected areas and afford government and Management Act of 2010 and upon Under Memorandum Circular No. massive, the President said some local ample latitude to utilize appropriate funds the recommendation of the National 56, the departments and agencies were governments were “paralyzed” by the to provide assistance and services to the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management also tasked by the President to help in typhoon despite the preparations people.” Council (NDRRMC). running localities affected in the provinces undertaken. Aside from overpricing, hoarding of Samar, Leyte, Cebu, Aklan, Capiz, Iloilo Aquino said 22 countries had of vital products must also be avoided, he All departments and agencies were tasked and Palawan. pledged to help and that P18.2 billion in said. to provide assistance and services. Aquino said the loss of life and savings, calamity and contingency funds “Like you, I also want to know “Law enforcement agencies, with the destruction the typhoon caused were had been identified and could be utilized what we can do to prevent similar situations in these areas in the future,” support from the Armed Forces, are huge. www.filipinostar.org November 2013 The North American Filipino Star 23 “In the coming days, be assured: Lacierda told a news briefing yesterday desperate survivors of Yolanda. Palace sources told The STAR help will reach you faster and faster. My that Aquino merely “took a bathroom De Lima said there is no need for that declaring martial law was never even appeal to you all is: Remaining calm, break” for about 10 minutes when national the Chief Executive to resort to military rule considered. praying, cooperating with, and assisting and local disaster officials were to address the aftermath of the calamity, Caution in reporting one another are the things that will help us discussing ways to help the typhoon including reported looting of commercial Aquino also appealed to the rise from this calamity,” he said. victims. and residential establishments in the area. media to be more careful in reporting “Aid is also arriving from other “There was no walkout. In fact, q“I believe there are enough powers fatality figures. countries; 22 countries have pledged their after that break, he returned and the allotted by the Constitution and the laws to He said they have not received assistance, including Indonesia, America, discussions went on and lasted for the national government, specifically the reports that thousands have died because England, Japan, Singapore, New another hour,” he said, quoting the President, in addressing the situation in of the typhoon. Zealand, and Hungary. The private sector narration of Assistant Secretary for Media the Yolanda-devastated areas, including “If I may appeal, let us reduce the is also finding different ways to help our Affairs Rey Marfil who accompanied breakdown of law and order, of lawless anxiety of those who have relatives in the countrymen recover, such as restoring Aquino. violence and the like,” she told reporters. affected areas by not exaggerating the telecommunications and the supply of oil “As per the account of Assistant De Lima also stressed that the figures,” he said. to affected areas,” the President said. Secretary Marfil, the President was not declaration reportedly proposed by local The President called on the Earlier, lawmakers from Leyte angry. He just took a break,” Lacierda officials cannot be legally justified under public to wait for the validated figures on appealed to President Aquino to consider said. the present circumstances. casualties from local governments and declaring a state of national calamity to Taking a break during long and “Under the Constitution, martial disaster management officials. allow the government to mobilize grueling discussions is “normal” for law is confined to only two cases or resources to help the country recover Aquino, Lacierda added. situations – invasion or rebellion. I don’t – With Delon Porcalla, Alexis Romero, quickly from the string of natural and man- He said Aquino was surprised think either situation currently exists,” she Paolo Romero, Edu Punay, Cecille made calamities. when he was informed of the walkout said. Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez issue. said members of the independent bloc in Meanwhile, Romualdez said the House of Representatives which he yesterday there should be no controversy Annual Christmas Party heads and lawmakers from the province over the reported walkout of President filed a resolution urging Aquino to make Aquino during the briefing. Who: Gilmore Students, such a declaration, especially because He did not confirm or deny that Alumni, Filipino Solidarity there have been numerous reports of the President walked out of the meeting, Cooperative Members increasing lawlessness in areas but said maybe Aquino was not yet When: Sunday, December 15th devastated by Yolanda. updated on the magnitude of Yolanda’s Time: 5:00-11:00 P.M. damage. Place: 5320-A Queen Mary Bathroom break (between Coolbrook & Malacañang denied reports that No justification Decarie President Aquino walked out of his own What: Pot luck supper, exchange briefing in Tacloban City last Sunday after Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, for her local officials allegedly pressured him into part, yesterday opposed calls for gifts ($10), dancing, karaoke singing, declaring martial law there following President Aquino to declare martial law in parlor games, door prizes reports of massive looting. Tacloban City amid reports of the Meet old and new friends. Presidential spokesman Edwin breakdown of law and order among

6430 Victoria Avenue, Montreal, QC Sale prices valid from Telephone: 514-733-7816 November 29 to December 6, 2013

Elephant Sticky Rice, 2 kg - $3.99 pack Dole Pineapple Juice 1.25 L $1.99/can Regent Chips 2/$1.00 Datu Puti Sukang Iloco - $1.29/bottle

Thai Gold Shrimp head on Datu Puti Soya Sauce - $1.49 bottle Diwa Coconut Gel - 2/$3.00 Diwa Sugar Palm Fruit- $1.79 bottle size 70-80 - $6.49 box

Sesame oil 3.27 mL - $3.99 bottle Mussels, 1 kg - $6.99 box Polar Bear Rice 8 kg - $12.49 bag Almanic rice stick 454 g - $1.99 pack

Eggplant 99¢ lb Baby bokchoy 79¢ lb Chicken legs - 99¢ lb Pork Spare ribs - $1.59 lb

www.filipinostar.org 24 The North American Filipino Star November 2013 Education raises the bar but lowers the barriers to a rewarding career. 5320-A Queen Mary Road (between Coolbrook & Decarie) Montreal, QC H3X 1T7 (accessible by Metro Snowdon) Telephone: 514-485-7861 Certificate of Collegial Studies • PAB/PSW Nursing Aide • Early Childhood Education Assistant Certificates of proficiency are given at the end of each course plus tax credit receipts. • Office Systems Technology - Executive Assistant (General Office, Legal, Medical) - Accounting Technician/Bookkeeper Self-Improvement Courses • English, French,Spanish, Mandarin, Filipino • Computer Literacy • Microsoft Office - Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Access, & Sage Accounting • Keyboarding - Touch Typing • Business Communication - English or French • Writing Workshop - Writers helping writers • Other courses - customized according to Foreign students from Cambodia, Venezuela and Tunisia are shown with the Director-General needs and Founder, Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi (seated)

PAB/PSW graduates pose with the faculty and administration of Gilmore College Internatiojnal. Seated from left: Annabelle Alloso, Ethel Tugna, instructors: Terry White and Amy Manon-og, Director-General Zenaida Kharroubi, instructors Edith Fedalizo and Sophie Toledo, and Lourdescita Lubang. Standing (L-R): Grace Calvo, Vilma Lagonilla, Giselle Arellano, Marilou Hechanova, Edison Taguba, Annie Signey, and Josie Bingayen. Two-Day Accounting Seminar By Frank McInnis, C.A. “Learn how to prepare government financial reports”

• A fast and easy way to do your own financial reports required by the government • A 2-day workshop designed for individuals with no prior accounting experience. • Pre-requisite to the course is an understanding of Microsoft Excel • Course Fees - $195 covers taxes & materials • Course consists of two 6-hour small group lessons plus one home assignment. • Certificate given at the end of the course For more information, please call 514-485-7861

www.filipinostar.org