THEFILIPINO TIES

Message from the CFO Secretary Diaspora Philanthropy and the CFO COVID-19 UPDATES Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino Program P a g e 3 Through the Years #BayanihanKahitSaanMan: CFO P a g e 1 2 - 1 4 MIGRANT SERVICES Honors Overseas Helping CFO's Anti-Trafficking Campaign Amidst Global Pandemic Goes Live Online P a g e 2 2 - 2 5 FilComs in Los Angeles, Seoul and Hawaii Connect with PH via CFO's P a g e 1 5 #FallenButNotForgotten: Online Ugnayan CFO Pays Tribute to Overseas CFO Reaches Out to FilCom in Filipino Frontliners Virtual Meeting with FilCom in Los Arizona P a g e 2 6 Angeles P a g e 1 6 P a g e 4 - 5 CFO Peso Sense Connects with Online Ugnayan with FilCom in South Overseas Filipinos Through "OFW LEGAL CORNER Korea Connect" Show P a g e 5 - 6 P a g e 1 7 Violence against Women and Strengthening Ugnayan with FilCom Children in Hawaii 2021 CFO Peso Sense Calendar P a g e 2 7 P a g e 6 Now Available P a g e 1 8 PAFIOO & MAM AWARDS Usapang Stateside Atbp. P a g e 7 - 8 EVENTSEVENTS CFO Releases Coffee Table Book Balitang Hapon: CFO Conducts PH Celebrates International in Honor of the 2019 MAM Awards First Virtual PDOS to Japan-Bound Migrants Day Amidst Global Winners Filipino Emigrants Pandemic P a g e 2 8 P a g e 9 P a g e 1 9 - 2 0 CFO Launches Virtual YouLeaD for Presidential Awards Nomination CFOCFO RRecertifiedecertified fforor IISOSO 99001:2015001:2015 Extended until 31 May 2021 Filipino-American Youth inin AAllll iitsts PProcessesrocesses P a g e 1 0 - 1 1 P a g e 2 1 P a g e 2 9 - 3 0

EDITOR'S NOTE

As we draw this year to a close, we look back at how the current pandemic has thrown a curve ball at all of us. This year has made it abundantly clear that we were thrown off our game and learning the curves again. But under these very difficult circumstances, we commend the exemplary leadership of our Secretary, Justice Francisco Acosta, for rallying us to adopt to the new normal while still be able to perform our solemn oath to provide service to the public, especially our clientele.

Our collective accomplishments speak for themselves - we were able to conduct four virtual Ugnayan among our Filipino communities, assist 586 repatriated overseas Filipinos (not OFWs) and provide meals and accommodation, automate our services and payment scheme and still find the time to successfully recertify our ISO 9001:2015 certification! Indeed, we were able to accomplished a lot despite the ongoing pandemic.

Here's hoping that 2021 will be a year of hope and an end to this pandemic.

Stay safe and healthy dear readers! MESSAGE FROM THE CFO SECRETARY THEFILIPINO TIES

For Filipinos overseas, reaching out to them were also facilitated virtually, as this year’s Ugnayan Series was held via online platforms for Filipino communities living and working in Japan, South Korea, Hawaii, and Los Angeles. The Youth Leaders in the Diaspora (YouLeaD) program also evolved from a two-week on-site cultural immersion program for Filipino youth overseas into a virtual discussion with topics ranging from mental health and emotional adjustment to volunteerism and social responsibility. The series of fora for the Month of Overseas Filipinos, leading to the National Forum on Migration this December, was also organized and celebrated virtually.

The CFO also provided logistical assistance to returning migrants and repatriated Exchange Visitor Program (EVP) participants affected by the pandemic. The Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino (LINKAPIL), on the other hand, continues to receive overseas donations and facilitate disbursements for relief to affected communities of the typhoon, as well as for other projects in education, livelihood, and small-scale infrastructure.

The recognition of overseas Filipinos is equally important in these trying times to give due credit for their valiant efforts and the role of the media in promoting and upholding the rights and welfare of Filipinos overseas. Nominations were extended and application processes The 2020 is both a momentous and tumultuous year for were adjusted for the biennial Presidential Awards for the Commission on Filipinos Overseas. Momentous, as Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas (PAFIOO) this year marks the 40th anniversary of the Commission, and the Migration Advocacy and Media (MAM) Awards to and tumultuous, as Filipinos and the whole world are accommodate the changing landscape of Filipino mired with unprecedented challenges. community activities during the pandemic.

The Commission, as an agency under the Office of the Back home, the Commission also aligned its working President mandated to promote and uphold the conditions to the existing quarantine and health interests, rights, and welfare of overseas Filipinos and protocols implemented by the Philippine government. strengthen their ties with the Motherland, had to reflect Alternative work arrangements were offered to and radically reassess their position in the pursuit of its employees to minimize the risk of infection, office mission to be the ’ premier institution in disinfection procedures were conducted regularly, and promoting policies, programs, and projects for the assistance for food, supplements, and testing was also strengthening of and empowering the community of provided. Filipinos overseas. These are just among the many proactive efforts and The COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with the devastation initiatives that the CFO implemented this year amid the from the recent series of typhoons that struck the pandemic and calamities. As we all strive to overcome country, have dealt a major blow on both the lives of the these challenges and move beyond the Commission’s 40 citizenry and the delivery of services by the government years of existence, this year has indeed made a mark as to its people. The Commission is not spared from these a milestone testament to our unwavering dedication and challenges, and it had to drastically adjust, realign, and never-ending pursuit of maintaining and sustaining innovate its programs and services as a response, and in quality, adaptive, and citizen-driven public service for compliance with President ’s directive to Filipinos worldwide, as aptly embodied in our mantra: assist our affected and distressed overseas Filipinos. Kalidad na serbisyo para sa mamamayan, abot sa labas Pre-departure Orientation Seminars (PDOS), previously ng bayan. conducted in person to groups of people, have been tailored to be accessed individually online by registered Mabuhay! We wish everybody, especially our overseas clients. Even the registration and payment processes Filipinos, a merry and healthy Christmas and a happy have been redesigned with the launching of the new year! Overseas Filipinos – CFO Online Registration System (OF-CORS) allowing for convenience and safety for clients to electronically register and pay for their application. Community Education Programs (CEP) and Country Familiarization Seminars (CFS) were also SECRETARY FRANCISO P. ACOSSTA conducted online in compliance with health protocols Chairperson mandated by the government. Commission on Filipinos Overseas

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 03 THE October to December 2020 Issue FILIPINO TIES SERVICES MIGRANT

By Frencel Louie Tingga

To reach out to our kababayans abroad who are afflicted "When COVID-19 struck, President by the COVID-19 global pandemic, the Commission on Duterte clearly spelled his priority: Filipinos Overseas conducted the Online Ugnayan sa Los Angeles, South Korea, and Hawaii on October 22, bago ang lahat, buhay muna… November 8, and November 21, 2020, respectively. These Because of the milestones we have virtual events led by Secretary Francisco P. Acosta and achieved as a nation towards a Undersecretary Astravel Pimentel-Naik, in cooperation comfortable life for all – from with the Philippine Diplomatic Posts, were held via Zoom and Facebook Live and participated by the Filipino instituting reforms in the communities in the US and South Korea. government, practicing prudent economic management, to pouring The theme of the Ugnayan – #WeRiseAsOne” – out investments and enhancing focused on the Philippine Government’s response to the pandemic concerning Filipinos overseas and the national resiliency – we faced the initiatives of the Filipino community in assisting our pandemic with our governance, kababayans overseas. economy, and social services

In his keynote message during the three events, Secretary stronger than ever. All these laid a Acosta than ked our overseas Filipinos for their immense strong foundation for our country contribution to Philippine development. He then to uphold the primacy of life in the comprehensively discussed the current health situation in midst of a global health the country and how President Rodrigo Duterte directed a whole of government approach in addressing the emergency." pandemic. This included signing of Bayanihan to Heal as One Act I and II, imposition of travel bans and setting of health protocols to healthcare, food pro vision and - Secretary Francisco P. Acosta livelihood assistance to affected Filipinos.

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 04 MIGRANT SERVICES l PAGE 05

g for dual THE FILIPINO TIES ipants, Officer Carlo Magno Salazar of the Philippine Bureau FB partic especially for newly arrived immigrants, and ways of of Immigration also discussed international trave open forum include procedure in applyin Philippines, impact of COVID-19 to job opportunities Leaders in the Diaspora (YouLead). Immigration strengthening Philippine-US diaspora relations. Corrado of PCG LA. It has 5,000 combined Zoom and launched Bayanihan Project, among others. Some of the queries and citizenship, issues raised during timeline the in the easing of travel Ugnayan sa LA was co-hosted by Ms. Joanna Lyn outbound passengers. They discussed initiated how their activities respective and organizations services for fellow Filipinos PPEs to healthcare workers, provided legal advice, restrictions for former Filipinos going to the Rodriguez of CFO and Vice Consul Joan Macrise Action Line Against trafficking, Presidential Awards restrictions and requirements for inbound and nationwide care domestic program workers, for organized working donations families of food and and for Filipino IndividualsMigration and Advocacy Organizations and Media Overseas, Awards, and Youth affected by the pandemic. The community activated (OF- Equal Representation in Nevada; rce speakers from LA, Arizona, Nevada and San Commission on Filipinos Overseas October to December 2020 Issue FILCOM IN LOS ANGELES VIRTUAL MEETING WITH THE Pacific IslanderPresident Community; Organization of Ms. with Amie the Belmonte, Filipino American Political Chairperson of the Council of Filipino Organizations in of the CFO, highlighting assistance provided to Arizona; Ms. Gloria Caoile of the Asian American and flagship programs of the CFO such as the Overseas Garcia, Jr., also presented the initiatives and services of Southern California; Ms. Ana Alma de Garriz, clients repatriated back to the Philippines due to Filipino community partnership specialist of the US Filipinos – CFO Online Registration System pandemic. They also shared recent innovative and Rosario-Apattad, Dir. Ivy Miravalles, OIC Rodrigo Census Bureau in Los Angeles County. Diego Executive include Director of Pilipino Ms. Workers Center (PWC) Aquilina Soriano-Versoza, Action Line Against trafficking, Presidential Awards Usec. Naik and CFO officers namely Dir. Marita del CORS), Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino Program, 1343 Ugnayan sa LA was held in partnership with the Los Angeles based lawyer and champion of the rights pandemic is over. Diego, Atty. Audie de Castro; Mr. Eric Lachica, a Resou country, and to visit the Philippines when the Philippine Consulate in LA. Consul General Adelio of minorities Atty. Joe Sayas; Honorary Consul to San Cruz, in his message, highlighted four calls of action community building, be cultural ambassadors of the giving back to the Philippines, contribute to Filipino for every Filipino-Americans, namely: to continue MIGRANT SERVICES

PAGE 05 THE FILIPINO TIES Online audience were also treated to heart-rending musical performances by Pinoy musical icon Joey Ayala Community. Hosted by CFO’s Migration Advocacy winners and Media Gennie Award Kim and Nash Ang, Ugnayan sa South and Heavenly Joy Calapiz of Seoul Filipino Catholic Korea gathered more than 10,000 online participants. s / nzales, h Korea, include respected s and E9 visa workers due to , counseling, legal consultation, mented, who were affected by the pandemic. Commission on Filipinos Overseas October to December 2020 Issue undocu government extended to migrants, including the efficient services and assistance by the Korean to work visa expiration and difficulty finding new job; and suffering from mental health problems. They praised the the pandemic. restrictions; many workers becoming undocumented due financial literacy trainings any sustainable livelihood assistance for those affected by the Philippines returning to Korea due to travel voting registration for the 2022 Philippine elections; and donation of face masks to migrants, financial assistance, Resources speakers from Sout – 24/7 Helpline for Crisis; Elena Dela Cruz, Counselor of network among E7-visa holders; timeline in the resumption travel restriction; welfare benefits that may be claimed by undocumented migrants; support to single mother during this include information pandemic. campaign about COVID-19, food drive, These humanitarian activities kababayans in South Korea. of work and other temporary visa issuance; overseas services and how they have been helping their fellow Ministries; Elsa Laguardia, Counselor of Danuri Call Center health insurance benefits in Korea; possibility of building a Filipinos in Korea and the Philippines, through bayanihan Seoul Global Center Multicultural Center; and Vice Consul Filipino Community Council; Roger Amboy, President of the several factories shutting down; difficulty of workers from Seoul Filipino Catholic Community; Fr. Ted Go Philippine Overseas Labor Office remain open but on an Korea; Fe Kim, founder ofAssociation; Edmar June the Visda and FilipinoAlicia Lipata of KoreanDaegu Spouses During the Open Forum, the following issues were raised – widowed marriage migrants with children; availment of Embassy in Seoul. Charge d’Affaires Christian de Jesus, in his message, said that the Philippine Embassy and the Philippines who can’t return to Korea due to international and interpretation, among others. Lyza Viejo of the Philippine Embassy. consular services and other forms of assistance to our Ugnayan sa South Korea was supported by the Philippine born citizen member of the National Assembly of South wellness and cultural activities, free language translation Counselor and Program Director of Center for Family appointment system, despite the health crisis, to provide Filipino community leaders, Presidential experts, Awardees, namely: Jasmine and Lee, first Filipina and foreign assistance to stranded EPS and E9 visa workers in the They discussed various issues and challenges faced by Notably, they also shared their organization’s respective migrants during this displacement of EPS healthworker crisis, which include job FILCOM IN SOUTH KOREA ONLINE UGNAYAN WITH MIGRANT SERVICES

PAGE 06

THE THE FILIPINO TIES 853220 Ugnayan sa Hawaii 12422424187/videos/300013727 https://www.facebook.com/1093 2021. gos, and gathered more than 2,500 online Ms. Annalisa Bur classes in the community. Ugnayan sa Hawaii was hosted by KITV Channel 4 Island News TV anchor and reporter They shared the initiatives of the Filipino community and viewers. The Ugnayan is part of CFO’s initiative in harnessing ties promote their welfare and interests, as well as help affected by the pandemic. They advocated for reforms in the economy, education, health, employment, and other Hawaii government, in helping disadvantaged kababayans areas of life that will benefit the lower-income and poorer optimize development in our home country. More Ugnayan webinars in countries with large concentration of Filipinos with overseas Filipinos and reaching out to them to discuss various ways of diaspora engagement that will overseas, are slated for 511109884838 VIDEO LINKS Ugnayan sa South Korea https://www.facebook.com/1 09312422424187/videos/707 me of pandemic.

Commission on Filipinos Overseas 0090879382810

WITH FILCOM IN HAWAII STRENGTHENING UGNAYAN the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) HonoluluMr. Roland Office;Casamina and PAFIOO Dr. Belinda awardees Aquino. Committee; Dr. Agnes Malate of the University of Hawaii at Manoa; Director Christopher Robinson of Misalucha, Head of the Filipino Complete Count The last in the series of Ugnayan for 2020, Ugnayan October to December 2020 Issue Lieutenant Governor Josh Green; Senator Benette sa Hawaii wasPhilippine conducted Consulate in partnership General with in the Honolulu. Deputy Other Hawaii-based resource speakers include industries to during ensure the ti delivery of essential services healthcare workers and those working in key Consul General Angel Escalona gave a message on sacrifices of the Filipino frontliners, including behalf of Consul General Jimeno. She recognized the

ONLINE UGNAYANFILCOM WITHIN SOUTH KOREA Ugnayan sa Los Angeles

https://www.facebook.com/1 09312422424187/videos/201 THE October to December 2020 Issue FILIPINO TIES SERVICES MIGRANT

By Marianne Dayne Alcaraz

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas through its Migrant Integration and Education Division (MIED) hosted a US-focused webinar with the theme: Usapang Stateside at iba pa; which discussed the pre-departure services of CFO for Filipino emigrants and relevant information on preparations, adjustments and settlement in the US. The webinar was broadcasted through Streamyard and Facebook Live. In the CFO official Facebook page, the activity had a reach of 78,948 and engagements of 37,260.

CFO Officers Allan Ducusin and Celine Del Monte served as the webinar’s hosts. The webinar started with the presentation of Atty. Christopher Lapinig, a Filipino-American lawyer based in Los Angeles, California. Atty. Lapinig discussed the current situation in the US, US government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and other issues affecting Filipino migrants.

The online dialogue was divided into three (3) segments, namely: 1) Buhay Pinoy sa Amerika Part 1 – Honeymoon Stage; 2) Buhay Pinoy sa Amerika Part 2 – Adjustment Stage; and 3) Buhay Pinoy sa Amerika Part 3 – Adaptation Stage.

For Part 1, resource speakers include spouses Ernie and Sally Del Monte from California, and Ms. Lia Ocampo from New York. They answered the frequently asked questions by those preparing to migrate to the US. Concerns on housing, food, registering children in school, and accessing general services like social security number, and driver’s license were also discussed.

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 07 THE October to December 2020 Issue FILIPINO TIES SERVICES MIGRANT

For the second segment, Ms. Mary Grace Castro, and Ms. Mary Jane Rosales, both from California, gave pointers in enrolling children in schools and job hunting in the US. They also shared the adjustments they went through in their new working environment and how they established their careers in the US. The discussion also provided the viewers with information on how to access services from community centers and district offices, and some useful websites on job openings and educational credentials’ assessment.

In the last stage which is the adaptation stage, the viewers were given some tips in handling their finances should they finally manage to understand, adjust, and connect in their new environment. This portion was made possible with the assistance of three (3) resource speakers, Ms. Nel Capistrano- Messersmith and Mr. and Mrs. Crispin and Mari Lou Nuñez, also from California.

The 3-hour online discussion was designed to address the common concerns and issues encountered by Filipino emigrants bound for the US. It also aimed to address queries in the most realistic way possible by having guest speakers with first- hand experiences and who were once dreaming and planning to move to the United States; and are now contently and successfully living their lives in the said country.

VIDEO LINK

To watch the recorded webinar, please visit the video section of CFO's Official Facebook Page or click this link: https://www.facebook.com/109312422424187/videos/ 330025248294926

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 08 THE October to December 2020 Issue FILIPINO TIES SERVICES MIGRANT

By Elfred Ulysses del Rosario

and adapting to the life and culture of Japan, as well The Commission on Filipinos Overseas successfully as learning their language. held a pre-departure orientation webinar titled “Balitang Hapon” for Japan-bound Filipino emigrants, Mr. Ruelos also facilitated a discussion with CFO via Facebook live on December 19, 2020. The webinar counselor Ms. Iluminada Gunabe and Dr. Wako Asato, provided updates and relevant information to a professor and migration researcher from Kyoto Filipinos bound to Japan, especially during the University. Ms. Gunabe discussed the pre-departure COVID-19 pandemic. services offered by the CFO through the GCP, and Mr. Asato, on the other hand, shared how culture It was hosted by Mr. John Nichols Ruelos, Ms. Mia similarities and differences may affect life and role of Bisa and other PDOS officers of the Migrant Filipinos as migrants in Japan. Integration and Education Division (MIED).

Ms. Janet Ramos of IACAT-Advocom gave an in- Migrants who are required to register at the CFO are depth discussion of the reality of human trafficking, long-term visa holders, spouses or children of a especially in the context of the vulnerabilities and Japanese national, and permanent residents as well susceptibility of migrants to abuse and exploitation as their spouses and children. during the pandemic. She likewise encouraged everyone to be proactive in preventing human Mr. Alan Ducusin discussed the changes in the trafficking through the various means of reporting of procedures for registering at CFO, which is now suspected cases to the appropriate authorities. mostly online due to the implemented community quarantine restrictions. Spouses or partners of Between segments, Mr. Christian Castillo also read foreign nationals were also reminded of the need to and reacted to comments and questions from undergo an online application for the CFO’s Guidance Facebook viewers. The entire webinar was creatively and Counseling Program (GCP), which is a delivered in a TV news program format. requirement mandated by the Philippines’ Anti-Mail Order Spouse Act and Expanded Anti-Human Trafficking Act. He stated the important documents required before registering, as well as the additional requirements and quarantine procedures as mandated by the Inter-agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases with regard to COVID-19 testing.

Ms. Bisa shared the specific travel procedures and quarantine protocols in Japan through an interview with Mr. Angelo Roa, a permanent resident in Japan. Mr. Roa shared his experience during the migration process, and the travel requirements that need to be prepared and presented before immigration authorities.

Ms. Bisa also headed a group interview segment with adolescents and young adults of Filipino and Japanese descents living or working in the Philippines or in Japan. The guests shared their dynamic experiences of coming to terms and embracing both their Filipino and Japanese heritage. Long-term migrants Ms. Anita Sasaki and Ms. Julie Ann Hamano- Barrero also shared their experiences via recorded video, especially the early days in adjusting and adapting to the life and culture of Japan, as well as learning their language.

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 09 MIGRANT SERVICES

PAGE 10 THE FILIPINO TIES - Secretary Francisco P. Acosta By Rozelle Carrera g familiar bridges and for sharing solutions, CFO shifted to an online Commission on Filipinos Overseas with the Philippine Consulate General in Chicago. Due that were done in 2019 and early 2020, in partnershipto the pandemic, the and the US Midwest YouLeaD Immersion Programs issues and challenges experienced by overseas sparking inspiration, and advocating positive impact brief introduction of the CFO, the YouLeaD program Filipino youth, especially during the pandemic, and as an exemplar Youth Leader in the Diaspora”, he Americans youth in the United States. in their societies and local communities. will serve as a platform CFO Director Marita Del Rosario – Apattad gave a clients. good as you proceed in crossin said. The Virtual YouLeaD Program hopes to discover in revisiting your roots not just as an individual, but with the Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPRO), implementation to continuously cater to its young The event Acosta’s started opening with CFO remarks Secretary which Francisco emphasized his The Commission on Filipinos Overseas, in partnership October to December 2020 Issue protecting and promoting their own national identities and cultural heritage. “I am confident that you will do optimism for the youth to do their part in preserving, successfully implementedin the the Virtual Youth Diaspora Leaders (YouLeaD) Program for Filipino- MIGRANT SERVICES

PAGE 11 THE FILIPINO TIES ur Filipino- e, visit https://youlead.cfo.gov.ph/. nts like the Virtual YouLeaD. To know mor installations of the program. online events that CFO will conduct next year for its overseas and to engage more participants in its next eve overseas Filipino youth clientele. CFO hopes to the government and youth organizations for more partner with more Filipino youth organizations with more young leaders, and partnerships between The Virtual YouLeaD is the pilot for the series of concerns like support experiencing system, Zoom maximizing fatigue, technology having a to connect contributions that need to be harnessed”, she said. session of theand participants processing Both for of groups the intimate were topics interaction able with to the talk facilitators. more about specific American youth has something important to say and The latter part of the event focused on the breakout CFO Undersecretary Astravel Pimentel-Naik delivered the closing remarks, in which she hoped that this online forum was able to identify the issues and needed. “In every aspect from health, migration, government could culture distinguish and identity, the government and intervention politics, and challenges of the Fil-Am youth nation so building, that we are the certain that o nd online platform that provides vital ntry and how the Philippines has always been r you are in the US or in the Philippines.” Mr. Commission on Filipinos Overseas pandemic. She alsodesk promoted “Tayo”, a a virtual help strength, their struggles and challenges during the the cou to the young audience. He gave a brief background of the phases of the corporate social responsibility in who discussed social responsibility and volunteerism current president of the One Meralco Foundation, with the Through participantsencouraged an the participants regarding to engaging share their mentalsources of online health. workshop, she for Child and Human Development, led the dialogue field. “At the end of the day we have a shared program specialist of Georgetown University’s Center mission, to really help our people wherever we may The event’s first speaker is Mr. Jeffrey Tarayao, event. alone. I really encourage you all to remember your lessons that he learned with his experience in this difficulties”, Ms. Canare said. sources of strength. They will be the things that will whethe information to underserved communities. “You are not whenever giving back to the community and the Maryland, Massachussets California, attended and Illinois, participated in Michigan the and help you during the times where you really are having be. So I guess that’s the challenge for all of us today, Tarayao commented. a rich playground for communityshared involvement. the He Filipinoalso values that people should have For the second half of the event, Ms. Krystle Canare, Youths aged 15-29 years old from New Jersey, October to December 2020 Issue MIGRANT SERVICES

PAGE 12 THE FILIPINO TIES economic boosters transcends their traditional with a heart’ because of the labors and efforts that Overseas’ Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino Program coursed through (LINKAPIL). the Commission on Filipinos contribution to contributionis to Philippine undisputedly development significant. Many of which were overseas Filipino individuals and organizations, OF’s globe. The Filipino diaspora is best described as ‘diaspora visage. As reflectedand by humanitarian the numerous initiatives philanthropic organized by different Diaspora with a Heart Constituting population almost of the ten-percentPhilippines as of 2018, (10%) the Filipino of total overseas Filipinos scattered in more than 200 destination countries and territories around the diaspora is composed of the strong 10.2 million the ment, diasporas hold By Joshua Russel Iringan Commission on Filipinos Overseas obtained overseas provides great help in transfer of knowledge and skills that they have needs of significant help their in uplifting fellow the living countrymen condition and also bears For instance, diasporas’ contribution in facilitating the play an essential function in the strategic attainment that is far beyond economic. In discoursing national develop communities designed to reach out and address the conventional role of sending remittances,of inclusive diasporas development in their countries of origin advancing progress in their motherland. humanitarian form initiated by various diaspora an important and notable place. Apart from their improvement of different academic disciplines and Philanthropic activities in monetary, material, or origin. technical practices in their respective countries of October to December 2020 Issue THE October to December 2020 Issue FILIPINO TIES SERVICES MIGRANT

CFO's Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino Program

In 1989, the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) initiated the Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino (LINKAPIL) program, a pioneering government effort that would systematically manage donations from Filipinos based overseas and direct them towards enhancing local development initiatives.

The program, which literally translates to “service to fellow Filipinos”, was designed to harness diaspora Through LINKAPIL, CFO acts as the principal conduit philanthropy and facilitate the transfer of various between overseas Filipinos and the local forms of assistance from Filipinos or other donors beneficiaries. It is designed to promote awareness overseas to support projects in fields of: and understanding of existing procedures and guidelines for the processing of overseas donations. livelihood development education The program also possesses mechanisms to ensure health related activities proper and continuous implementation through small-scale infrastructure project monitoring and provision of regular reports skills transfer regarding the status/progress of projects to the concerned donors.

Figure 1. Summary of Donations Coursed Thru CFO LINKAPIL

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 13 THE October to December 2020 Issue FILIPINO TIES SERVICES MIGRANT

LINKAPIL Through the Years

From 1990 to 2019, 6,557 donations amounting to PHP 3,421,425,378.00 were coursed through the CFO’s Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino Program.

Most of the projects implemented were under the fields of health such as conduct of medical missions, feeding programs, and donation of medicines and medical equipment.

It was followed by projects related to education which include building of classrooms, donation of educational materials, and provision of scholarship grants.

Construction of small to medium infrastructures and initiatives of skills transfer came as third and fourth most preferred fields while projects putting forth livelihood was the least adopted.

These projects and initiatives were implemented to a total of 81 provinces around the country.

Fortifying Diaspora to Development

As a pioneering government program seeking to engage with our kababayan abroad to partner with local institutions in promoting development, LINKAPIL helps in the attainment of social justice among Filipinos who do not have access to basic social services.

Implementation of projects related to health, education, and skills transfer promotes development on an individual level. ‘Mens sana in corpore sano’, a sound mind in a sound body. These intellectually and physically equipped individuals will form part of a society that is capable of obtaining and maintaining further societal progress.

On the other hand, infrastructure and livelihood projects provide access to a wider range of investment and commercial opportunities among local communities, ergo fostering economic development. Service to Fellow Filipinos

Scholarship grants, donation of educational materials While the numberb of other programs and platforms and building of classrooms provide learning operating to h harnessarn and facilitateta donations opportunities to many Filipino youth around the overseas grow,w, a andnd t thehe d demandma onn institutional country and help in the attainment of a learned and credibility i increases,ncreases, C CFO’sFO’s L LINKAPILINKAP Program vows educated Filipino society who in turn may share back to remainn a ass a r reliableeliable a andnd t trustworthyrustworthy p platformlatform of to their respective communities the fruits of their philanthropichropic n networketwork p proactivelyroactively m maintainingaintaining t thehe learning. spirit ooff bbayanihanayanihan aamongmong OOFsFs eevenven wwhenhen ttheyhey hhaveave found nneww hhomesomes iinn ootherther ccountriesountries.

Being a partnerer ooff tthehe FFilipinoilipino ddiasporaiaspora fforor ddecadesecades iinn mainstreamingg a andnd a addressingddressing i issuesssues s surroundingurrounding migration and ddevelopment,evelopment, LLINKAPILINKAPIL wwillill ccontinueontinue ttoo live up to its literalteral t translation:ranslation: a alwayslways i inn t thehe n nameame To know more about the CFO LINKAPIL and “service to fellowellow Filipinos”.Filipinos”. Program, visit https://cfo-linkapil.org.ph/

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 14 THE October to December 2020 Issue FILIPINO TIES SERVICES MIGRANT

By Kathleen Faye Ruga

Addressing the needs of overseas Filipinos, and ensuring their smooth integration to other countries are important mandates of the Commission. During these unprecedented times, the Commission innovated its services, utilizing social media and video conferencing platforms, to continue serving its clients and the public. One of the recently “new normal” activity of the CFO is the virtual conduct of its pre-departure orientation seminar and public awareness campaign on the fight against human trafficking.

Throughout the fourth quarter of year 2020, the Commission, as a member of the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) and Chair of the Advocacy and Communications Committee (ADVOCOM), conducted a series of webinars. These include the Community Education Program (CEP) on Migration and Human Trafficking in October 2020, Ang Ibayo Kong Pag-ibig: A Webinar on the Issues of Filipinos in Intermarriage in November 2020, and Balitang Hapon webinar for Filipino emigrants bound for Japan in December 2020.

The intermarriage webinar and CEP discussed the challenges of migration, including the issues faced by newly-arrived migrants and Filipinos in intermarriage. The activities also provide awareness on the relevant laws protecting our overseas Filipinos and prospective migrants from illegal recruitment, human trafficking and mail-order spouse schemes. As a call for action, the participants were informed of the 1343 Actionline against Human Trafficking, the 24/7 national anti-trafficking hotline of the IACAT, which can be accessed through call, email, Facebook page, and website. The webinars were attended by the local government officials and staff of and Laguna, law enforcement officers, social workers, marriage counselors, and prospective migrants.

During the webinar, CFO online services were also promoted. These include the Overseas Filipinos-CFO Online Registration System (OF-CORS) and the 1343 Actionline Against Human Trafficking to raise public awareness on the frontline services of CFO and its fight against human trafficking.

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 15 THE October to December 2020 Issue FILIPINO TIES SERVICES MIGRANT

By Elfred Ulysses del Rosario

As part of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas’ On the question of possible support and educational mandate of reaching out and strengthening ties with assistance to migrant workers, Atty. Xerxes Cortel, Filipino communities abroad, Secretary Francisco P. Head Executive Assistant shared the possibility of Acosta guested on the online radio show “Buhay adopting the “Au Pair” program in Europe to the Buhay sa Amerika” of the Entre Mujeres Radio, based United States. in Phoenix, Arizona on October 10, 2020. Dir. Marita del Rosario-Apattad of the Project Hosted by Filipino community leaders Rhia Luz and Management Division shared the CFO’s Lingkod sa Ethel Lozario, Buhay Buhay sa Amerika regularly Kapwa Pilipino (LINKAPIL) program which aims to promotes inspiring Pinoy stories in America and facilitate the transfer of various forms of assistance showcases Filipino talents and Fil-com events. from Filipinos or other donors overseas to support Together with the Secretary are Undersecretary local community projects. Dir. Mario Garcia of the Astravel-Pimentel Naik and the division chiefs leading Administrative and Finance Division, on the other the various departments and programs of the CFO. hand, shared the CFO’s PESO Sense financial literacy program, which aims to develop the necessary During the interview, Sec. Acosta discussed the brief behavioral outlook and technical skills for financial history of the CFO, tracing its roots to the need for stability and independence, aimed especially for an agency dedicated to permanent Filipino migrants overseas Filipinos and their families . overseas. Mr. Rodrigo Garcia Jr. of the CFO’s Policy, Planning and Research Division gave an overview of Finally, the Secretary also invited viewers and the biennial Presidential Awards for Filipino listeners to the upcoming Ugnayan sa Los Angeles Organizations Overseas (PAFIOO), which recognizes webinar via Zoom and Facebook live, in cooperation the valuable contributions of overseas Filipinos to with the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles. Philippine national development, as well as those who excel in their field of profession. Buhay Buhay sa Amerika is a recipient of the 2019 Radio Journalism Award for Best Regular Radio In response to question on possible assistance to Program on Migration, conferred during the arriving migrants in the US, in particular in Arizona, Migration and Media Awards on 17 December 2019. Dir. Ivy Miravalles of the Migrant Information and Education Division, shared the plan of the CFO to link with organizations abroad in providing localized post- arrival services, especially for Filipino spouses married to foreign nationals.

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 16 THE October to December 2020 Issue FILIPINO TIES SERVICES MIGRANT

By Patricia Marie Salvador

In a two-part interview and guesting of the CFO-PESO imparted the necessity of understanding one’s Sense Team in Radyo Veritas’ program OFW Connect financial standing, knowing the right formula of saving, last November 29, and December 6, 2020, over 3,000 and setting of smart financial goals. overseas Filipinos and their families in the Philippines learned about financial literacy to make informed The viewers and listeners, who communicated with the financial decisions. The live guestings were hosts through text messages and commented in the broadcasted through Radyo Veritas’ radio station Facebook live, were very grateful to the PESO Sense DWBS 1008 kHz, the local DCTV cable network as well team for their presentation and interview. Many didn’t as on its Facebook page. even know that there is a program such as PESO Sense that aims to increase overseas Filipinos’ CFO PESO Sense team members, Ms. CindyCindy SanSan awareness on financial literacy. Pedro, Mr. Warner Dawal, and Ms. Rosemariearie Juan,Juan, were interviewed by radio hosts Dr. Neth Penetrantenetrante As parting words, the team shared that in line with and Mr. Noly Benavides. The team presented the financial literacy, another essential lesson that PESO Sense, which is a program of the Philippine overseas Filipinos must learn is that they have to government intended to assist overseas Filipinos aandnd completely plan their financial goals before, during, their families in their financial freedom journey.urney. and after migration. Through the years, the target beneficiaries o off t thehe program expanded to not just the sender and rreceivereceiver In partnership with the Children, Youth Wellness, of remittances, but to communities andnd eeveryvery FFilipinoilipino Technical and Advocacy Center (CYWTAC),“OFW in the Philippines and abroad. Connect” is a program of Radyo Veritas that operates every Sunday at at 4:30-5:30 PM (PH Time). The The discussion also focusedd o onn t thehe c challengeshallenges t thathat program showcases stories of overseas Filipinos, their overseas Filipinosos f faceac regardingegarding t theirheir f finances.inances. A Ass successes, struggles, and triumphs. Its goal is to some are typicallyally e earningar ing m moreore i inn w workingorking a abroad,broad, inspire OFs and their families in the Philippines, learn they still f find t themselvesh mselves w withith p perennialerennial s strugglestruggles ways to build healthy connections with each other such as consumptionnsu ption sspending,pending, ffallingalling iintonto ddebtsebts aandnd despite the physical distance. It also tackles issues loans, and g gettingetting u unreasonablenreasonable f financialinancial d demandsemands commonly faced by OFs such as homesickness, stress from their families bbackack hhome,ome, aamongmong oothers.thers. management problems, and financial struggles.

PESO Sense shared w withith v viewersiewers a andnd l listenersisteners t thehe lessons that they mustt llearnearn iinn ffinancialinancial lliteracy.iteracy. TTheyhey imparted the necessityity o off u understandingnderstanding o one’sne’s ffinancialina standing, knowingowing t thehe r rightight f formulaormula o off ssaving,av Commission and setting on Filipinos of smart Overseasart ffinancialinancial ggoals.oals. PAGE 17 MIGRANT SERVICES

PAGE 18 THE FILIPINO TIES tablishing Commission on Filipinos Overseas the PESO Sense’s Facebook page at request via email at [email protected] or through get copies of the calendar, you may send a savings goals to be attained on a daily basis. To visual and manageable short- and long-term https://www.facebook.com/pesosenseph. The Commission on Filipinos Overseas released promotes the habit of saving by es financial literacy programthe which financial aims to improveacumen of both Overseas Filipinos (OFs) and their beneficiaries. This specifically of the projects of the CFO’s PESO Sense, a the 2021 PESO Sense Ipon Challenge Calendar migrants and their families. This calendar is one and is now available for everyone, including By Elfred Ulysses del Rosario October to December 2020 Issue October to December 2020 Issue THEFILIPINO TIES EVENTS

By Frencel Louie Tingga & Graciel Antonett Paguinto The event was graced by CFO Secretary Francisco Acosta, DOLE Secretary Silvestre Bello III, CFO Undersecretary Astravel Pimentel-Naik and PMRW The 2020 may be the most challenging year in President Carmelita Nuqui, who gave recognition of decades, but even the global pandemic brought all the sacrifices and valuable contributions of about by COVID-19 couldn't stop the Philippine overseas Filipinos to Philippine development and annual tradition of celebrating the Month of nation-building. They led the discussion of the Overseas Filipinos in December, coinciding with the National Forum focused on the various reintegration joyous Christmas season. services available for overseas Filipinos affected or displaced by the pandemic, and anchored on this The Inter-Agency Committee on the Celebration of year's MOF theme “Pagpupugay sa Migranteng Month of Overseas Filipinos (IAC-MOF) co-chaired Filipino tungo sa Pagbangon mula sa Pandemya”. by the Philippine Migrants Rights Watch and Commission on Filipinos Overseas, successfully CFO Secretary Acosta underscored how President organized the First National Forum on Migration Rodrigo Duterte have shown great concern especially Webinar on December 18, 2020 (which is also the to distressed overseas Filipinos and immediately global observance of International Migrants Day) via pprovided additional funds for their repatriation back Zoom and CFO Facebook Live. It is the first time thatt to the Philippines and assistance for their livelihood. such an event, usually held in big public gathering as a tribute to more than 10 million Filipino migrants, The Forum was divided into two session. The first was held virtually because of the health protocolsols part gathered five resource speakers from the and restrictions needed to observe during this global Philippinep national government who discussed the health crisis. repatriationriatio assistance and reintegration services for the migrantsrants aaffectedffected by the pandemic.

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 19 October to December 2020 Issue THEFILIPINO TIES EVENTS Asec. Enrico Fos of the Department of Foreign Affairs has been in the forefront in leadingg t thehe C COVID-19 response operations, particularlyparticularly thethe mass repatriation of overseaserseas F Filipinosilipinos a affectedffected by the pandemic. L Labat.abat. R Roeloel M Martinartin o off t thehe N National Reintegrationration C Centerenter f foror O OFWs-OverseasFWs-Overseas W Workerso Welfare A Administrationdministration a assuredssured r returningeturning and repatriateded OOFWsFWs tthathat ttheyhey ccouldould aavailvail ooff tthehe vvariousar reintegrationtion pprogrrograamsms ooff tthehe ggovernmentovernment uundernder ttheirh "Collectivee A Assistancessistance a andnd R Restorationestoration f for Emergence"" o orr C C.A.R.E..A.R.E. P Program.rogram. D Dr.r. J Joelo Buenaventurara ooff tthehe DDepartmentepartment ooff HHealthealth ddiscussediscussed their COVID-19D-19 e effortsfforts a andnd h healthealth s serviceservices f foror migrants andd o overseasverseas F Filipinoilipino r returnees.eturnees. A Asec.sec Ameenah Fajardoardo o off t thehe D Departmentepartment o off T Trade and Industry showcasedcased ttheirheir ttwowo llatestatest offering for OFW returnees affectedcted b byy t thehe pandemic - the COVID-19 Assistance to Restartest Enterprises or CARES Program, and Helping the Economy Recover thru OFW Enterprise Start-ups or HEROES Program. Ms. Elena Clemente of Social Security System shared insurance benefits available to members, highlighting the rise in claim forunemployment benefits by those who lost their jobs because of the pandemic. Deputy Director General Aniceto “John” Bertiz III of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority discussed skills training and services for overseas Filipinos affected by the pandemic, focusing on their enterprise-based training programs implemented within firms/companies through apprenticeship or on- site/in-company training arrangements.

Session 2 of the Forum was devoted to sharing of migrant stories during this time of pandemic. Ms. Marifel Chavez, a former OFW from Dubai is a SPIMS beneficiary of OWWA-NRCO and is about to return to teaching profession in her hometown in Bukidnon. Ms. Anelyn Ortega, who was unable to return for work to Japan because of the pandemic, became a beneficiary of DTI's HEROES Program, allowing her to invest in seaweed farming in her hometown in Surigao del Sur. Some OFWs and OFW returnees affected by the pandemic also gave thanks to President Duterte, for the financial assistance they have received thru the DOLE-AKAP Program.

After all the discussion, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts thru video formally launched the online photo exhibit of the Aninag Photo Essay Competition winners. The exhibit showcased artistic VIDEO LINK talents of overseas Filipinos from Europe and the Middle East who captured unique and moving snapshots of their daily lives while in pandemic.

Afterwards, online participants were treated to a soulful musical performance by CFO's Mr. Joshua Russel Iringan, Mr. Mhelmafa Buenaflor of the PNU CChorale,h andnd the OF winners of the NCCA QuaranTinig CCompetition.ompetition. TThree lucky online participants also won PP1,0001,000 w worthorth of G-Cash for participating in a National Forum on Migration 2020 ssurprised quiz show at the end of the program. https://www.facebook.com/10931242242418 7/videos/693825344658818 The National Forum was hosted and moderated by Usec. Pimentel-Naik and Mr. Lance Velasco of PMRW.

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 20 October to December 2020 Issue THEFILIPINO TIES EVENTS

By Darlene May San Juan “Despite all difficulties and challenges brought by the Pandemic, CFO still managed to maintain good quality The Commission on Filipinos Overseas was services, better perspective of customer satisfaction recertified for ISO 9001:2015 for another three (3) as expected by its interested parties, which are years for all of its processes, having complied with manifested thru different customer surveys / the certifying authority’s international standards of feedback. This is commendable.” service and excellence, evidence of the agency’s commitment to efficient public service. This is what TUV Rheinland Philippines’ lead auditor, Mr. Lionell Aala, reported in his team’s Recertification ISO 9001:2015 is a globally recognized quality Audit Report on December 17, 2020. “This management standard developed and published by certification is a strong evidence to CFO’s the International Organization for Standardization unwavering commitment to consistently deliver (ISO). The certification provides a for quality and efficient service for its clients, the organizations of all types and sizes to use in building overseas Filipinos, and the general public,” said an effective quality management system. The Justice Francisco P. Acosta (Ret), CFO Secretary and standard is based on several quality management Quality Management Representative (QMR), during principles, including having a strong client/customer the online recertification audit with TUV Rheinland. focus, involvement of high-level organization management, an outlined process-based approach, CFO’s ISO certification process started in 2016, with and ongoing improvement of the aforementioned the assistance of the Development Academy of the approach. Philippines (DAP) in establishing its QMS. The said system was implemented starting 2017. CFO passed The Commission on Filipinos Overseas’ ISO the Stage 1 and 2 third-party audit in 2017, and the 9001:2015 certificate was issued by TUV Rheinland, 1st CFO ISO 9001: 2015 certificate was awarded for a world-class management systems certification 2018-2021. The re-assessment third party audit was body. The scope of certification includes all CFO conducted in 2018, 2019 and 2020, respectively. All core processes, support processes including ICT CFO components of the established QMS were found support, administrative support and finance to be compliant with ISO standards. services.

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 21 COVID-19 UPDATES

PAGE 22 THE FILIPINO TIES in the US in , the first Fil-Am cancer , initiated the Tulong Sulong COVID National Federation of Filipino American Philippine Humanitarian Coalition Filipino American Cancer Care families in the Philippines affected by the pandemic. So far, the relief program helped more than 5,300 families Viriginia Metropolitan residents area, has of donatedassistance Iloilo relief was and goods also to extended Capiz the to during kids with the cancer pandemic. and their Food families. nationwide. The care organization in the Washington D.C., Maryland and Associations (NaFFAA) Food Aid Relief to ameliorate hunger of thousands of Filipino The partnership with the the By Frencel Louie Tingga & Joanna Lyn Rodriguez motherland. The evelopment. Even Issue tion. Most prominent is May Commission on Filipinos Overseas popula victims of the pandemic, and the general responses to support the frontliners, containing the spreadhave of the disease, been and able to create innovative never forget to help their their respective host countries in their host countries, overseas Filipinos Philippine diaspora population and world for being inthe stillthe on-goingfrontline pandemic. in fighting health sector. They served as allies of force for the country’s d overseas Filipinos, have been recognized pandemic, they were still the first to as one of the partners and key driving alive. their humanitarian assistance to Aside from their valuable contributions to respond to support the community and the With strong presencecorner in of the every globe, part the almost and 11 million Filipinos from keeping the Bayanihan spirit the most badly hit sectors by the launched in 2020, is givingFilipino spotlight diaspora to our and overseas Filipinos in COVID-19 vaccine.healthcare workers Indeed respect, are gaining our and the accolades Filipino trust, from across the #BayanihanKahitSaanMan Solidarity Anywhere in the (Filipino World) it deter them in providing the much needed Parsons, the administered Filipino the nurse world's in first UK who approved but it certainly did not stop overseas Philippines in this time of health crisis. assistance. The Overseas Commission on through Filipinos the tribute series restriction in travel imposed mobility by several countries and did not international The COVID-19 global pandemic may have though our overseas Filipinos are among caused many restrictions around the world October to December 2020 THE October to December 2020 Issue FILIPINO TIES UPDATES COVID-19

Let's Mass Test PH is a grassroots initiative which has raised money to buy FDA-approved testing kits and PPE suits for healthcare workers in the Philippines. Behind this initiative are three young professionals, who came together to support the cause. Rachel Carrasco-Strudwick and Natashya Gutierrez are based in Singapore, while Mercedes Torrijos-Joaquino is based in . The group has raised more than US$16,500 which were used to buy Antibody test kits, RNA extraction kits, and filter tips racks which were donated to UERM Hospital, Lung Center of the Philippines, San Lazaro Hospital, among others.

Pinoy Sa Hanoi and FilViet Organization in Vietnam, in coordination with the Philippine Embassy in Hanoi and MSE Balikbayan Box forwarder respectively, donated PPEs, surgical and washable masks to several hospitals in the Philippines. Beneficiaries include Southwoods Medical Center in Biñan, Laguna, Dr. Paulino J. Garcial Memorial Research and Medical Center in Nueva Ecija and to the frontliners in Dasmariñas, Cavite.

The FilOz Association of Student Councils (ASCEND) has The Filipino Australia Health Workers Association, raised $2,700 cash donations through its campaign called Inc. (FAHWA), a licensed charitable organization in #Filos4Heroes. The cash donation was used to provide Perth, Australia extended their support by providing PPEs to health workers serving COVID-19 patients in the food and meals to frontliners in Davao City. Philippines.

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 23 THE October to December 2020 Issue FILIPINO TIES UPDATES COVID-19

The Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers Central Region Saudi Arabia (PSME-CRSA) Riyadh Chapter spearheaded a Bayanihan drive to support frontliners in the Philippines in the fight against COVID- 19. The Chapter’s Board of Directors and Officers pooled cash donations that were later turned-over to the Professional Regulation Commission – Philippine Association of the Professional Regulatory Board (PRC-PAPRB) to provide PPEs for frontlines in 50 hospitals in the Philippines. In addition, PSME-CRSA Riyadh Chapter, in coordination with the Bureau of Fire Protection in General Santos City, distributed relief goods and medical supplies to the GenSan Medical Center.

Pinoy Mustang Club UAE, a group of Filipinos who are Mustang car owners in the UAE has been doing a relief drive to help those affected by the pandemic. On their first founding anniversary, the group decided to allocate their budget supposed to be earmarked for a big party, to feeding programs and providing relief goods for those displaced by the Taal volcano eruption. They also distributed PPEs for the frontliners in the Philippines.

Pinoy Iskolars sa Korea (PIKO) partnered with the Ateneo Korean Studies Program and organized FilKor Worskhop Online Series “Testing, Tracing and Isolating in a Pandemic: Insights from Filipino Scholars in Korea” in May 2020. The online session served as a platform to share insights on testing, tracing and isolation practices, deriving from various fields of research. PIKO Alumni also conducted a donation drive for Barangay Health Workers (BHW) and Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) who belong to low-income households in Mercedes, Camarines Norte.

Aldrin Rueda Licayan, a Filipino staff nurse working at a government-run hospital in Donegal, Ireland has been helping students in the Philippines acquire gadgets needed for the blended learning system (online class/ distance learning) that is currently being implemented because of the pandemic. After launching the “Distance Learning Tablets for Filipino Youth” campaign on GoFundMe website, Licayan has already distributed 20 10-inch learning tablets for the first wave of his campaign after generating P70,000 ($1,452). Most of the beneficiaries of the project were aged 10 to 19 who came from Quezon, , South Cotabato and Davao del Sur provinces.

Pathemae Dael, a Filipino-Canadian based in British Columbia, Canada, has raised almost P58,000 (US$1,203) to help hemophilia patients in the country severely affected by the pandemic and typhoons. With the help of her friends, she was able to raise funds on the crowdfunding platform GoFundMe and donated it to the Hemophilia Advocates Philippines (HAP), a patient organization composed of people with bleeding disorders or hemophilia.

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 24 THE October to December 2020 Issue FILIPINO TIES UPDATES COVID-19

TThesehese a are just some of the commendable and These initiatives are on top of the philanthropic inspiringspiring stories of our diaspora featured in the assistance facilitated by the CFO through the Lingkod ##BayanihanKahitSaanManBayanih tribute series, which is sa Kapwa Pilipino Program (or Link for ppubliclyublicly accessible at the official Facebook page of Philippine Development Program). One of the flagship tthehe P Presidentialres Awards for Filipino Individuals and programs instituted in 1989 by the Commission for OOrganizationrganizat Overseas migrants and diaspora to fully contribute to national ((https://www.facebook.com/gahttps://w wadpangulo). and local development, the LINKAPIL provides a mechanism for the transfer of They are hailed for their benevolence and spirit of various forms of resources from overseas Filipinos to bayanihan, working together and pooling resources provide donations, relief assistance and support with friends and community organizations through small-scale, high-impact projects that address the social media to help those in need. They lend their country’s social and economic development needs. helping hand to their fellow kababayans who are struggling with their daily needs after suffering pay Total donations through LINKAPIL program sincee i itsts cuts or loss of job, sacrificing their lives in the establishment until 2020 amounted to PhP3.43.4 b billionillion frontline, or worst being afflicted by the virus. or USD 68.6 million worth of assistance. In 22020,020, tthehe CFO facilitated donations and relief drivesves i inn 4 466 provinces including , that b benefittedenefitted more than 46,000 individuals, mostly v victimsictims o off natural calamities and the global pandemic.

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 25 THE October to December 2020 Issue FILIPINO TIES UPDATES COVID-19

By Frencel Louie Tingga & Patricia Marie Salvador The Philippines is a major source country of nurses and other health human resource in the US and Saludacion “Sally” Fontanilla and her husband, Ben, Northern America, United Kingdom, the Middle East, were inseparable and did almost everything together. and practically almost anywhere in the world. Sally, They shared the same passion for travel and taking Kenneth and Janet, dedicated and fearless healthcare care of the sick as both worked as registered nurses frontliners, were among the thousands of overseas at the St. Mary Medical Center in Apple Valley, Filipino casualties, who sacrificed their lives to serve California. In the middle of the COVID-19 global their fellowmen in this time of adversity and public pandemic, both were hospitalized, but still the two health emergency. The worst global pandemic to hit texted each other from separate rooms at St. Mary’s. the world in century, it has already infected more than The texting only stopped when Ben ultimately 100 million people worldwide. recovered but Sally was transferred to ICU and was put on ventilator. Eventually, she stopped responding Secretary Francisco P. Acosta and Usec. Astravel P. to treatments and lost the battle to COVID-19. Naik of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) are saddened by our overseas Filipino frontliners’ In United Kingdom, 33-year-old Kenneth Lambatan untimely demise but are taking their hats off for their believed it was his sworn duty as a nurse to stay on selfless sacrifices in the global fight against COVID-19. the front lines no matter what the circumstance. Even In recognition of their heroism and commendable though his work at St. George’s Hospital in London service, the Commission is paying tribute thru the was on the field of research, he did not say no when #FallenButNotForgotten Series. This is in honor of the asked to be a bed manager for COVID-19 patients. But inspiring lives of our brave overseas Filipino more than a week after his assignment, Kenneth was healthcare workers, our modern-day heroes who struck with the deadly virus. When he was taken off fought and lost their lives in containing the global life support, his grieving mother read Bible verses and health crisis. Their laudable yet heartbreaking stories sang gospel songs by his side. may be publicly accessed at the official Facebook Page of the Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals A mother of three, Janette Alano who worked as a and Organization Overseas, nurse in a hospital in Abu Dhabi was remembered by (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/? her colleagues as “someone who has given her life to vanity=gawadpangulo&set=a.3393649230719568). something bigger than oneself”. She succumbed to COVID-19 on Mother's Day leaving behind a family who The CFO is also calling for nominations to the 2021 dearly loves her. Her eldest daughter Jalyssa, who Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and works as an emergency medical technician (EMT) in Organization Overseas (PAFIOO), which overseas Sharjah, took up nursing to follow on her footsteps so Filipino frontliners who passed away in the name of that one day they could work as a mother-daughter public service, humanitarian assistance or call of duty duo under one hospital roof in UAE. But with her may be nominated. mother now gone, that dream would never be fulfilled.

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 26 LEGAL CORNER fear

PAGE 27 THE FILIPINO TIES the mental or emotional BBB committed a violation of itoriality, the aforesaid case is within account of BBB’s marital infidelity , it was very unfortunate that the Regional Trial may be committed. Thus, the marital infidelity per se but theof the psychological various acts by which psychological violence violence causing mental orwife. emotional Marital suffering infidelity on the as cited in the law is only one quashal of the Informationjurisdiction on considering the ground that of the lack acts of complained of were committed by BBB in Singapore, applying the Philippines even if the illicit relationship is conducted Principle of Terr Court of Pasig City (“RTC-Pasig”) still directed the abroad and is not beyond the reach of Philippine courts. Court said that what R.A. No. 9262 criminalizes is not 2004 In questioning the ruling of RTC-Pasig, AAA argues in law because with the (RTC-Pasig’s) [3] ruling, it is as ground to believe that Anti-Violence Against Women and Children Act of cognizance of the same excludes the other. While it was aptly found that there is reasonable the sole andcourts. exclusive jurisdiction of Singaporean In reversing the ruling of RTC-Pasig, the Supreme suffers on Republic Act (R.A.) No. 9262, otherwise known as the Considering that the mental and emotional anguish, No. 9262 may be filed and heard within the if husbands license ofto enter into Filipino extra-marital womenaffairs without have been given abroad." psychological violence under R.A. 9262, AAA that in the AAA Philippines while she was in Singapore, a transmogrified into a weak, wobbly, and worthless violence against women and their children may any of the crime's essential and material acts have an essential element of the offense constituting criminal complaint for psychological abuse under R.A. main “that R.A. No. 9262 is in danger of becoming of any consequence, as long as they are carried out occur in oneoccur municipality in another. or In territory, such cases, while the some court wherein it being understood that the first court taking transcends beyond boundaries or is equally felt by [3] Deleted the phrase “the court a quo’s” and suffering of complainant, the victim, is an essential which and is distinct personal element to in the material and essential acts for its consummation been committed maintains jurisdiction to try the case; manifest as transitory or continuing crimes whose replaced with “RTC-Pasig’s” the commission of the offense. Section 7 of R.A. No. 9262 contemplates that acts of R.A.) No. 9262, erritorial jurisdictional limits tarted working in Singapore as a BBB s , and only sporadically. xxx To make mber 2020 Issue Commission on Filipinos Overseas October to Dece 212448, [January 11, 2018] is that may exercise Philippine courts jurisdiction psychological violence under Republic Act ( over an offense constituting sought to be resolved is in the case of AAA v. BBB, G.R. No. In May of 2007, was born on March 4, 2007 and DDD on October 1, 2009. 1, 2009. on March 4, 2007 and DDD on October born was with their kids.” with in . Their union produced two children: CCC altercation at a hotel room in Singapore during her visit AAA claimed xxx, among others, that BBB sent little to no financial support Pasig City. from from the time they were married until March of 2010, when In this case, “AAA and BBB were married on August 1, 2006 occurring outside the country? occurring committed or where any one of the essential thereof ingredients took place. Similarly, “where the offense is wholly AAA and their children moved back to her parents' house in chef, where he acquired September of 2008. permanent xxx (H)is address xxx is [2] in resident Quezon status in City where his parents reside and where AAA also resided Guided by the principle of territoriality, the question that is the case and should dismiss it." [1] the case and should dismiss it." infidelity, when the alleged illicit relationship occurred or is with with a Singaporean woman named Lisel Mok with whom he allegedly has been living in Singapore. Things came head to on a April 19, 2011 when AAA and BBB had a violent committed outside the t cases; thus, making it an indispensable requirement the that criminal action municipality or be territory instituted where the and offense tried has been in the wherein wherein the court opereates, said court is powerless to try otherwise otherwise known as the Anti-Violence against Women and their Children Act of 2004, committed through marital matters matters worse, BBB supposedly started having an affair It is an elementary rule that “VENUE or THE PLACE WHERE THE CRIME WAS COMMITTED” is jurisdictional in criminal By Atty. Bernard Abad [1] See the case of Hernandez [1967]. vs. Albano, 19 SCRA 85 {2] Inserted. October to December 2020 Issue THEFILIPINO TIES PAFIOO & MAM AWARDS MAM & PAFIOO

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas launched its Migration Advocacy and Media Awards (MAM) coffee table book in recognition of the outstanding media works of the 2019 MAM Awards winners. The MAM Awards is the only recognition conferred by the Philippine government specifically for media works and advocates tackling migration issues and advocating the cause of Filipinos overseas.

The publication also chronicles the success of the MAM awarding ceremonies held in 2019, and pays tribute to all the MAM awardees since 2011.

The book contains photos and narratives of the 2019 Interactive media awardees and special citation winners, which include print media awardees: Best awardees: Best Website www.obrerofilm.com by Norman Zafra and www.pinoyseoul.com by Nash Ang; Book Awardee “Bending without Breaking: Thirteen Best Blog Awardee www.globalcarinderia.com by Women’s Stories of Migration and Resilience” of Jennifer Fergesen; and Special Citation Awardee Samahang Pilipina Berne; Best Newspaper Awardee “Voice: Poetry by Youth of Kalihi” by Farrington High “Ako Ay Pilipino” by Pia Eliza Gonzales; Best School, Hawaii students were also higlighted in the Newsletter Awardee “The Migrant” by Vincent special publication. Valiente; and Best Magazine Awardee “Via Times Magazine” by Veronica Leighton. In his message, CFO Secretary and Chairperson his book Francisco P. Acosta thanked the MAM Awardees for giving voice to Filipino migrants. He also The 133-page book also features the radio, emphasized that apart from being a privilege, winning television, and film media awardees: Best Regular the MAM Award is a responsibility. “Higit sa Radio Show Awardees “Buhay-Buhay Sa Amerika” by pribilehiyo, kalakip ng gantimpalang ito ay Rhia Luz and “Luv2DMax” by Maxxy Santiago; Best responsibilidad. Isang tungkulin ang pag-imik at hindi Regular TV Programs “Kabayani Talks” by Jasmin pananahimik. Maraming salamat sa pag-ako ninyo sa Romero and “Pusong Pinoy Sa Amerika” by Atty. Lou responsibilidad ng pagkukuwento, lalona para sa mga Tancinco and Eric Quizon; Best TV Episodic Program Filipinong nangangailangan ng boses. Ipagpatuloy Awardees “Laban DH” by Howie Severino and “Mga ninyo ang paglikha ng mga obrang tumatalakay sa buhay ng mga kababayan natin sa ibayong dagat,” he Nagkukubling Anghel” by Maki Pulido; Best TV Series said. Awardee “” by Marian Rivera; Best TV Interstitial Awardees “Becoming Pinoy” by GMA After the success of the 2019 MAM Awards and the Network and “Lines and Letters” by ABS-CBN; Best release of the coffee table book, the CFO hopes that Documentary Awardee “Imprisoned: Raising My Baby through the awardees’ future media projects, they will Behind Bars” by Ana Santos; and Best Full-Length continue to promote the positive image of overseas Film Awardees “Hello Love, Goodbye” by Cathy Filipinos and raise public awareness on issues and Garcia-Molina and “Still Human” by Oliver Chen. challenges concerning them.

Download a copy of the MAM coffee table book through: https://cfo.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2019-MAM-Awards- Coffee-Table-Book-single-page_final_smaller.pdf. Limited printed copies are also available for request. Interested individuals may get in touch with the MAM Awards Secretariat through [email protected].

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 28 October to December 2020 Issue THEFILIPINO TIES PAFIOO & MAM AWARDS MAM & PAFIOO

By Joanna Lyn Rodriguez

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) The PAFIOO is a biennial search to honor and extends the deadline of submission of nominations recognize overseas Filipinos and other individuals or for the Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals organizations who contribute to Philippine and Organization Overseas (PAFIOO) from 31 development initiatives, or promote the interests of December 2020 to 31 May 2021. overseas Filipino communities. The awards are also given to overseas Filipinos who have exceptionally This is in consideration of the on-going COVID-19 distinguished themselves in their work or profession, global pandemic, which has afflicted countries and have thereby brought pride to the Filipino nation. across the globe and restricted mobility of people, A distinct category in the awards is also reserved for as well as the requests of Filipino communities foreign individuals or organizations, for their overseas and diaspora organizations. The CFO is exceptional contributions to the Philippines and for fully aware that the priorities of the countries right advancing the cause of overseas Filipino now, including the Philippine diplomatic posts, is in communities. protecting the health and welfare of the people, and providing assistance to those afflicted with and Since its inception in 1991, the awards have already affected by the disease. These valid concerns been bestowed upon 485 individuals and prompted the CFO-Awards Secretariat headed by organizations overseas based in 52 countries and Justice Francisco P. Acosta, to extend the territories. nomination period to give a chance to qualified overseas Filipinos to participate, especially those OF health workers and other frontliners who sacrificed a lot in helping fight this pandemic.

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 29 October to December 2020 Issue THEFILIPINO TIES PAFIOO & MAM AWARDS MAM & PAFIOO

Interested overseas Filipinos and the public must For more information and updates regarding the first submit their nomination documents to the PAFIOO visit www.presidentialawards.cfo.gov.ph and Philippine Embassy or Consulate General that has Like and/or Subscribe to the Gawad ng Pangulo jurisdiction over the place of residence/operation of Facebook page the nominee, as the CFO-Awards Secretariat may https://www.facebook.com/gawadpangulo/. The only receive nominations endorsed by their Awards Secretariat may be also reached through e- respective Philippine diplomatic posts. mail: [email protected] for any inquiries and clarifications related to the awards. Endorsed nomination documents must be received by the CFO – Presidential Awards Secretariat on or before, or postmarked no later than 31 May 2021 to qualify for the screening by the Awards Committees. The Awarding Ceremony is tentatively scheduled in December 2021.

Editorial Team October to December 2020

MANAGEMENT BOARD Justice Francisco P. Acosta (Ret.) Usec. Astravel Pimentel-Naik Atty. Xerxes Cortel

ISSUE EDITOR Rodrigo Garcia, Jr.

CONTRIBUTORS

Atty. Bernard Abad Marianne Dayne Alcaraz Rozelle Carrera Elfred Ulysses Del Rosario Joshua Russel Iringan Graciel Antonett Paguinto Initiated by the Commission on Filipinos Overseas Kathleen Faye Ruga (CFO), this online community is specifically created Joanna Lyn Rodriguez for the Filipino diaspora. This is our way of Patricia Marie Salvador strengthening engagement and extending our Darlene May San Juan services to our kababayans all over the world. Frencel Louie Tingga In this online community, you will receive latest news and government updates affecting our overseas DESIGN & LAY-OUT Filipinos, and relevant information on the CFO's various programs and services. Joanna Lyn Rodriguez

Copy of the FilTies 4Q issue and previous issues can be downloaded for free at www.cfo.gov.ph.

Commission on Filipinos Overseas PAGE 30