November 2007, Vol. XXV, No. 11a www.filipinostar.org Rendez-vous 07 to restore Montreal’s past glory Rendez-vous November 2007 a special moment in the cultural history of Montreal thta brought together about 1300 participants who believe in the strenght and future of Montreal. Two days of meetings and discussions centered on the presentations of various individuals and organizations that provided the government with numerous viewpoints and proposals to make Montreal regain its former status as a major cultural metropolis over the period of the ocming 10 years. The big turnout is an evidence of the success of the conference. The orgqnizing committee hoped to draw around 800 people. “The clear interest of the public and private sectors, as well as cultural and community groups, shows how important this major historic meeting is seen to be - and rightly so,” commented Gérald Tremblay, Major of

A view of the Rendez-vous conference in session at the Palais de Congrès, November 12-13, 2007 See Page 4 Rendez-vous 07 Province Panday Tinig a hit at Carnegie Hall

It was a captive audience to the last note as the Panday Tinig Choral Ensemble ended their afternoon Page 10 concert at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall in New York on Saturday, October 20, 2007. Contents Aptly called Kapalaran, the concert traced the destinies of three Cooperative Movement. . . . p. 6 daughters of a family as they moved from province to province in the Travel Advertisement . . . . p. 8 . Their story was captured through choral music representing Classified Ads ...... p. 9 traditional songs, haranas, kundiman, and contemporary compositions in Philippine Cuisine ...... p. 9 various Philippine languages. A rendition of Pambansang Tourism ...... p. 10 Awit, O Canada, and Star Spangled Banner opened the program. Setting Filstar Photo Gallery . . . p. 12 the tone for the concert was Sa Mahal Kong Bayan by Lucio San Pedro Showbiz Gossip ...... p. 14 depicting the love for our Philippine music. The scene moved to the slum Political Press Releases . p. 17 area of with the song Bahay Seated L-R: Willie Gomez, Jowen Soguilon, Editha Fedalizo (pianist & coordinator), describing homes built with boxes, Philippine News . . . . p. 18-23 Edward de las Alas, and Jake Calizar.Standing L-R: Paul Imperial (Music director), galvanized material and cardboard. Jessie Pascual, Amir Billones, Dindo Miras, Peter Apelo, Gerald Castillo, Jun Diaz, and Global Perspectives . . . . p. 20 Domingo Lorica Jr., Ruel Arevalo (not in picture). See Page 5 Panday Tinig saratoga UNIIONBANK Electronic Solutions Inc. of the Philippines

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www.filipinostar.org 2 The North American Filipino Star November 1-15, 2007 Coffee Club opens at the EDITORIAL Coop starting December 16 Members with their friends or Eufemio How do we make our government associates are invited to take some January 20 - Alex Robles time out during Sundays, from 1 to 5 January 27 - Domingo Lorica, Jr. transparent and accountable to us? p.m., to drop in at the Coop (Divisoria- Those who are interested in Cubao) store to keep themselves up- volunteering their time and who have The current debate over the former After having learned about to-date with the news - how things are some creative ideas in making the Prime Minister Mulroney’s affairs begs different issues, particularly those that going and what they can do to help coffee club sessions more interesting an answer to the question of whether are controversial, we must not just sit their own store become successful in are welcomed to call the Coop at 514- or not there is transparency at all in the around and do nothing about them. its goal to offer better services and 733-8915, or 514-485-7861, and different levels of government – We have a duty to express our lower prices. A volunteer member is submit their names. municipal, provincial and federal. Do opinions and let our lawmakers know assigned to be the animator or host for In our desire to improve the we keep ourselves informed of how how we feel either by telephone or in each of these coffee club sessions. sales of the Coop, we are also our political leaders make their writing. We must learn how to ask Freshly brewed coffee will be available requesting all members to buy even decisions? questions for it is only by asking for only $1 a cup. $10 a week. If all 600 members buy As citizens and taxpayers, it intelligent questions that we can put Some of the proposed this amount, we will have at least seems quite important to know who the pressure on them to be activites are watching popular Tagalog $6000 sales per week and in a month, are our representatives in each district responsible or accountable to us. films, playing board games, or having this will be $24 000. Hence, we will so that when the time comes, we can Although all political parties have some information sessions about the soon achieve our break-even point. In easily call on them to voice our had their share of scandals, we as cooperative movement. a short time, we will be making a profit. opinions, or to seek their assistance. citizens should not accept them as The following volunteer On the other hand, if members do not However, it is a common experience part of politics. Politics need not be a members have graciously agreed to patronize the Coop, it will be difficult if that no one seems to know neither “dirty game.” It is the type of people start the ball rolling: not impossible to achieve any of the their names nor their addresses. It is who enter it that make it so. If there December 9 - Remy Monteagudo goals of a cooperative. only during elections when everyone are many good people who will enter Decemer 16 - Estrella Gascon We hope to see you all and is aware of their candidates’ names this field, it is possible to have ethical 2008 bring along a friend who will be but once elections are over, people leaders we can look up to. January 13 - Luz Dizon & Leony interesting in becoming a member. forget them and never bother to see The current case of Mr. Brian how they are doing their job. Will it not Mulroney may make us wonder about FILIPINO SOLIDARITY be a good idea if we all decide to many things. How is it possible for make it our business to know how our someone like him to be receiving such FSCI COOPERATIVE political leaders are protecting our huge amounts of cash in an envelope 2004 interests? How do we make them in various hotel rooms? The fact that it Coopérative de Solidarité Filipino accountable to us? has been quite a long time ago when it 4711 Van horne Avenue, Montreal H3W 1H8 In order to keep our government happened and yet still remains as a accountable and transparent, there is question leads us to ask many more a need for all of us to learn how our questions. If it is true that the payment elected officials make their decisions. was for past or future services, why did There are many ways we can Mr. Schreiber use cash? The black accomplish this. The most practical market or the hidden market is the way is to gather all information about only place where cash is often used to every issue of the day by reading avoid the payment of taxes. newspapers, magazines, watching As Mr. Mulroney has been television news, listening to talk declared innocent of the airbus Rice Philippine frozen products shows, going to council meetings, and scandal, and he claims that he will be Nature’s Virgin Oil surfing the internet,. If one is really an vindicated again, we must really be avid follower of political people, sitting interested in finding out how he could Not yet a member? Support your first and only at the gallery of the Parliament or the explain away this cash payment. Will Filipino cooperative in Canada. Be a member now! National Assembly whenever an the public inquiry help him clear his important debate is going on will name? How can this case serve as a surely be an advantage. If we do all lesson for politicians not to be involved CUBAO-DIVISORIA thee things, we can be sure to be in a similar situation? prepared to vote the right person to Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Store Hours: represent us in future elections. Monday to Friday - 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. We thank all our readers Saturday-Sunday - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. 514-733-8915 and advertisers for Tangkilin ang sariling atin. allowing us to serve you Working together for common prosperity. for the past 25 years.

The North American Filipino Star SUBSCRIPTION 4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse Tel.: 514-485-7861 Name:______(5th Floor) near Snowdon Metro E-Mail: [email protected] Montreal, QCH3W 1X3 Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Hilda T. Veloso Address:______Jerry Estrada Chief Editor & Publisher Community News Lina V. Fernandez Mary Joy Lizarondo Dr. Victor Gavino Sam Ferry Telephone: Residence:______Office: ______Prof. Isaac Goodine Assistant Editor Sports News News & Tourism Editor 1 year or 24 issues $55 2 years or 48 issues $90 Esther Stansfield Nida Verginom Butaran Alvin D. Veloso Bert Abiera Sales Representative Enclose a cheque or money order for: Contributors Founder Opinions, comments of writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect that of the management of Filcan Publications, Inc. www.filipinostar.org November 1-15, 2007 The North American Filipino Star 3 ROTRAND TO MARK 25th ANNIVERSARY in his chair. "That's it. You're done." 1993, Brian Mulroney accepted an He also called Mr. Szabo a envelope containing $100,000 in cash AS CITY COUNCILLOR "son of a b***h." But Szabo said later from Karlheinz Schreiber, a promoter and 2009. that Mr. Martin is a friend who made the who had once successfully lobbied his Rotrand, who is the President remarks in the heat of the moment. "I government on the matter of a contract of the Borough of Cote des Neiges - forgive him for the comment," he told involving Air Canada and Airbus. The Notre Dame de Grace's Intercultital reporters. transaction was not in itself illegal. No Commission, has been a close friend Mr. Martin said he remained evidence has emerged to suggest it of the Filipino community working to furious at what he saw as Mr. Szabo's had anything to do with Schreiber 's facilitate cultural events and obtaining attempt to "sabotage and hijack" his previous lobbying efforts. But municipal grants for various social and efforts. especially given the many recent cultural organizations of the Filipino Tempers began to boil as Mr. revelations about the culture of community. He is currently working the Szabo questioned the admissibility of corruption in Liberal Ottawa, Borough of Cote des Neiges - Notre several motions aimed at getting a Mulroney's reluctance to explain his Dame de Grace and Filipino parliamentary inquiry rolling before a relationship with Schreiber has merchnats toward an improvement government-ordered public inquiry continued to cloud Mulroney's plan for Victoria Avenue. into the Mulroney-Schreiber affair gets reputation. Many ask: Was the conduct When asked, Rotrand says his underway. of the last Conservative PM beyond main accmplishment is an intangible. The final blow-up occurred reproach? He was first elected when Montreal when Mr. Szabo suddenly adjourned It has become conventional Council was secretive and citizens the meeting in the midst of an wisdom that in his years of office, excluded. He has been instrumental in argument by Bloc Quebecois MP 1984-1993, Brian Mulroney was a the democratic reforms that have seen Michel Guimond, who challenged Mr. better prime minister than Canadians Marvin Rotrand the City add question periods and Szabo's authority to prevent a vote on thought at the time. He is widely November 14 will mark the consultative mechanisms such as Mr. Martin's motion to launch an inquiry credited as the father of free trade, the 25th anniversary of Marvin Rotrand’s Commissions. Rotrand’s immediately. facilitator of good relations with the first election as Snowdon ’s City outspokenness has changed the way Mr. Guimond "was in full flight Americans and the leader who began Councillor. Councillors do their job. City Council is and then he was going to start facing up to Canada's crisis in public Rotrand has been a strong no longer a rubber stamp. lecturing me," Mr. Szabo said as he finance. Taxation experts maintain that voice for democracy, social justice, ruled the MP out of order. Mulroney's courageous introduction of minority rights and environmental Ethics committee in chaos Conservative MPs quickly and the GST was the real key to the mid- protection. over Mulroney hearings quietly filed out of the packed 1990s turnaround in Canadian Just before the last municipal committee hearing room. Conservative government finances and Paul Martin's election Rotrand was termed “a public MP Russ Hiebert later accused the surpluses today. conscience and a voice for fairness OTTAWA -- The abrupt opposition parties of turning the The Liberals, remember, broke and fair play” by the Gazette. adjournment of a Commons ethics committee into a circus and called it "a their commitment to change the GST, Snowdon voters have stuck by committee meeting Tuesday provoked horrible waste of time." He declined to just as they went back on their Rotrand whether he was with the a chaotic shouting match and left say whether Conservatives, who hold a commitments to alter the free trade governing party or the opposition. First dangling the question of whether minority on the committee, would agreement and various other Mulroney elected with the Montreal Citizens Karlheinz Schreiber and Brian support any of the motions. policies. In particular, Jean Chretien Movement (MCM), Rotrand was Mulroney will be summoned to testify The motions before the and Paul Martin have implemented instrumental in 1990 in founding the before MPs. committee would summon Messrs. many of the concessions to Quebec Democratic Coalition of Montreal The committee is scheduled to Schreiber and Mulroney to the ethics and the other provinces contained in (DCM) when the MCM broke its take the matter up again Thursday committee (NDP); launch an inquiry Mulroney's failed Meech Lake and election promise to create strong after committee chairman Paul Szabo into whether ethics codes have been Charlottetown Accords. And virtually Borough Councils. considers whether MPs have any more broken in the Schreiber-Mulroney affair every day, the Gomery inquiry into Rotrand was also instrumental than "a sliver" of authority to subpoena (NDP); and review the Conservative Adscam generates more evidence in 2001 in bringing the various City Hall the two men before a government- government's handling of the affair supporting Mulroney's complaint that opposition together to form the ordered public inquiry gets underway (Liberal and Bloc Quebecois). he was a mere novice at the patronage Montreal Island Citizens Union under next year. The government-ordered game as played by veteran Quebec Gerald Tremblay to win that year’s Mr. Mulroney, Progressive public inquiry is looking into the Liberals. election. Indeed, the new party’s Conservative prime minister from 1984 Mulroney-Schreiber financial dealings All of this would add up to a structure was negotiated in Rotrand’s to 1993, will testify if summoned, his and whether new allegations by Mr. powerful brief -- though in my view, not living room bring the MCM, the DCM spokesman said. Mr. Szabo, a Toronto Schreiber have any bearing on a $2.1- a fully convincing one -- for awarding and the Union group together! Liberal, also told reporters that the million payment to Mulroney made by Brian Mulroney greater historical Rotrand is currently the Vice committee could delay Schreiber's the Liberal government of Jean respect. But first, he must find a way to President of the Societe de Transport extradition to Germany from a Toronto Chretien in 1997. That payment disassociate himself from the last where he working toward a major detention centre, scheduled for Dec. 1, covered Mr. Mulroney's legal and odours of the scandals that have increase in transit services for 2008 by securing a Speaker's warrant to public relations fees in his libel suit dogged his reputation during and after and 2009. His work at the STM also compel him to testify about his against the federal government after a his years in power. deals with the introduction of hybrid dealings with Mr. Mulroney. Justice Department document named For a few years, between 1998 buses that use less fuel and pollute NDP Pat Martin had an argument with him a target of an RCMP investigation and 2003, it seemed as though less. He also serves as Deputy Leader ethics committee chair Paul Szabo into alleged kickbacks from Mr. Mulroney was completely vindicated. A of the Majority and Vice President of over the Mulroney-Schreiber affair.View Schreiber, related to the sale of Airbus humiliated government of Canada the Speaker’s Commission which Larger Image View Larger Image jets to Air Canada in the late 1980s. apologized to the former prime oversees City Council’s rules of NDP Pat Martin had an argument with Mr. Szabo said if a Speaker's minister, and compensated him for procedure. ethics committee chair Paul Szabo warrant is obtained, Justice Minister what then appeared to be a Some of Rotrand’s over the Mulroney-Schreiber affair. Rob Nicholson would be in contempt groundless legal investigation of accomplishments include the creation Jean Levac/CanWest News Service of Parliament if he enforced the 1980s-era aircraft contracts. A of the Quebec Police Ethics Email to a friendEmail to a friendPrinter extradition order against Schreiber that thorough 1998 book about these Commission assuring civilian oversight friendlyPrinter friendly is now scheduled for Dec. 1. He matters by respected historian and of law enforcement, the green space Font: expected Mr. Schreiber's lawyer to lawyer William Kaplan, Presumed acquisition plan which lead to the However, Mr. Szabo's effort to appeal to the Supreme Court the latest Guilty: Brian Mulroney, the Airbus creation of the regional park network, ensure the committee acts within its lower court ruling upholding the Affair, and the Government of Canada, work on launching the first minority mandate dissolved into a confrontation extradition order, and said that could appeared to set the historical record hiring plans, and work on the Montreal with New Democratic Party MP Pat give the committee another 60 days to straight. From Kaplan's pages, Charter of Rights and Responsibilities. Martin, who pitched his pencil over a act. Mulroney emerged guiltless. Rotrand's work also lead to the committee table and stormed over to Ottawa Citizen But the wheels of history and adoption in 2005 of the Montreal- Szabo to accuse him of stalling his A Secret Trial justice ground on. First in newspaper Manila agreement through formal efforts to get an ethics committee William Kaplan articles and now in a powerful new inquiry off the ground. book, A Secret Trial: Brian Mulroney resolutions of each of the respecrive National Post - Review "You're a disgrace," Mr. Martin municipal councils. Rotrand hopes to The scandal that won't go away; Stevie Cameron and the Public Trust, see this agreement broadened in 2008 told Mr. Szabo, who remained seated Kaplan has changed his view of Brian Shortly after leaving office in www.filipinostar.org 4 The North American Filipino Star November 1-15, 2007 Minister of Public Works and Govern- pedestrianization that is well-suited to structures, the imposing Wilder From Page 1 Rendez-vous 07 ment Services Canada and Minister Montreal’s climate. All in all, by Building, might have to be demolished. responsible for the region of Motnreal; expanding sidewalks, reducing traffic If this is the way the creative enterprises Montreal and Chair of the event. “I am Christine St-Pierre, Québec Minister of lanes, opening up blank façades and already located in the Quartier des pleased at this heavy turnout in Culture, Communications and Status of creating new squares where parking spectacles will be treated, it’s not a respone to our decision to call together Women; Raymond Bachand, Quebec lots currently exist, this plan will terribly good sign. Already, arts groups the movers and shakers on the culturae Minister of Economic Development, significant improve the pedestrian are worrying that the neighbourhood’s scene so that they can consider Innovation and Export Trade, Minister experience in the area around Place redevelopment will force up rents and methods of enhancing its reach and of Tourism and Minister responsible for des Arts. push them away. influence. More thane veer, I am the region of Motnreal; Isabelle Hudon, But what about the rest of the Another concern is the quality convinced that together we will chart President and CEO of the Board of Quartier des spectacles? At the corner of design. Given the area’s existing the course for Montreal to remain Trade of Metropolitan Montreal; and of Ste. Catherine and the Main, a new culturally dynamic and to be Simon Brault, President of Culture $20 million cultural centre called the From Page 1 Panday Tinig recognized as an international cultural Montreal. Red Light will replace an abandoned metropolis. I therefore welcome aone To learn more about th event, go to : building and a vacant lot. The name of Vignettes of daily life were represented and all: we have a rendezvous to shape www.montrealmetropoleculturelle.org the building suggests a somewhat by a medley of traditional songs from the history of Montreal.: Source: Susan Ellefsen cynical appropriation of the area’s Chitchiritchit, Kundiman in 1800, Ang The meeting had two main Montreal, Cultural Metropolis - seedy heritage, and the building’s Alibangbang, Atin Cu Pong Singsing to “stages’ where participants made November 2007 Rendez-vous renderings don’t reveal too much — it Leron Leron Sinta. themselves heard. Firts, the plenary Information: Elizabeth Boileau, Media would be about 13 stories high and The harana was a special sesions were held to improve and Relations Manager, 514-789-3456. luminescent — but I’m inclined to think moment in the lives of the three sisters agree on the 2007-17 Action Plan that this would be an appropriate as they moved from province to submitted by the Steering Commitrtee. $120 million to build the landmark for a notorious crossroads province. They recalled songs like This document set out 28 separate Quartier des spectacles that has lately become more Hatinggabi (Tagalog), Malinac Lay Labi objectives and now fewer than 65 After years in the making, the pathetically tacky than seductively (Pangasinan), Nu Duduaem Pay actions asscociated with five major plans for the Quartier des spectacles deviant. People have been worrying (Ilocano), Sarung Banggi (Bicol) and approaches: 1. Enhance access to are finally coming together. Yesterday, it about the Times Square-esque Kahibulongan (Visayan). culture; 2. Invest in the arts and culture; was announced that all three levels of “Disneyficiation” of the lower Main for Other songs included Tatlong 3. Improve the cultural quality of the government will be chipping in with years, but Gérald Tremblay is no Dalaga, an adaptation of Sa Lungsod living environment; 4. Enhance $120 million to reshape the area Rudolph Guiliani and Montreal is no Sa Buenavista and a Visayan Montreal’s status in Canada and around Ste. Catherine St. between New York. traditional, Laylay Agolaylay. internationally; 5. Secure for Montreal Bleury St. in the west and St. Denis St. What concerns people most Completing the program were the means of a cultural metropolis. in the east. Four phases of about the Quartier des spectacles is interpretations of L’important C’est La At the same time, large development will be spread over four that, as interesting as it all sounds, Rose by Gilbert Becaud and Tatak Ng numbers had visited “Place du years. there is a big potential for things to go Pilipino by E. Dodgie-Simon. Mabuhay Rendezvous.: Close to 70 So what do we make of all of this? terribly, terribly wrong. The Balmoral Panday Tinig, composed by P. Imperial organizations presented invitatives and and lyrics by E. Fedalizo, depicting the The first thing to consider is the plan’s Block, which is at the centre of the projects that could give Montreal a choral life as a Panday Tinig member treatment of public space. The so- plans, has already been the victim of boost - each in its own style and in was premiered in this Carnegie Hall called “Place du Quartier des government incompetence. In 2002, enjoyable. detailed way. concert. spectacles” sounds promising, since it when it was slated to be redeveloped “In order to realize Montreal’s Members of the Panday Tinig includes a reduction in the number of into government offices and a new full potential and promote greater Choral Ensemble include sopranos lanes on Jeanne Mance St. and a symphony hall, the provincial access to culture for citizens, we need Marivic Aplaon, Magnolia Camat, dramatic widening of its sidewalks. government purchased the block, to provide ourselves with the means to Raquel Estoque, Elvie Flores, Mellie (Apparently, the garage doors and evicting dozens of artists and small achieve our goals. This is the Francisco, Anita Lo. Jee Mae Ojoylan, blank walls of the Musée d’art businesses. When the symphony hall challenge that we face,” said the Mayor. Theresa Pasiolan, Mynia Penaranda, contemporain will be renovated to plans were shelved, the block was left Mr. Tremblay was pleased to and Sahmee Roux; altos Minerva note that the very great majority of Barriga, Lilibeth Flores, Gelyn Gao-ay, cultural event promoters, Erlinda Gascon, Marissa Meneses, administrators of cultural facilities, Marina Ocumen, and Carmela cultural entrepreneurs and directors of Raquepo; Tenors Ruel Arevalo, Joselito local cultural groups and committees Calizar, Jun Diaz, Willie Gomez, and were on the list of participants. He also Jessie Pascual; and basses Edward de hailed the involvement of many las Alas, Peter Apelo, Amir Billones, businesspeople who have accepted Gerald Castillo, Domingo Lorica Jr., the invivitation to come and take part in Dindo Miras, and Jowen Soguilon. the conference. Pianist and coordinator is Editha Several federal and Quebec Fedalizo. Music director is Paul government ministers participated Imperia. actively inthe presentations and The Panday Tinig Choral discussions. Ensemble was especially invited to The idea to hold a Montreal mark the 35th anniversary of the Rendez-vous on Cuture begain to form founding of Artists International of New Premier Jean Charest making the announcement about the 3-way partnerhsip in building the in 2005. Aside from Major Tremblay, York City by its founder and executive the Steering Committee for the Quartier des Spectacles whereby the municipal, provincial and federal government will chip in $40 million each. director Leo B. Ruiz.Watch for the 2008 November 2007 Rendez-vous is made spring presentation of the Kapalaran up of Jos?e Verner, Minister of include retail space.) The renovation of to rot for five years, decaying to such concert to be showcased in Montreal. Canadian Heritage, Status of Women Ste. Catherine will calm traffic and allow an extent that one of its historic Further announcements will follow. and Official Languages’ Michael Fortier, for a flexible approach to F. FARHAT LUNETTERIE • Guess 10% off • Easy-Clip For Students • Versace & Seniors • and many more designer rands Eye examination on site Bring this ad to get 10% discount. 5540 Cote desk Neiges (cor. St. Kevin) 514-340-0135 1274 Mount Royal East 514-527-8201

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FP4ShlCii November 1-15, 2007 The North American Filipino Star 5 Government of Canada the project details and the parameters for federal financing, Supports Quartier des and on compliance with the Spectacles in Montréal obligations set out in the framework Montréal, Québec agreement. (November 12, 2007) - The Through its unprecedented Government of Canada, through its $33-billion Building Canada brand new Building Canada infrastructure plan, the Government infrastructure plan, will consider the provides long-term, stable and Quartier des spectacles cultural predictable funding to help meet precinct as a funding priority. This infrastructure needs across financing could cover as much as Canada. Building Canada supports one third of eligible costs, for a a stronger, safer and better country. federal contribution of a maximum of For further information contact: $40 million for the cultural precinct Karine White of the Quartier des spectacles. The Province of Québec under the completion of environmental Press Secretary Government of Québec and the City Building Canadainfrastructure plan. assessments required under the Office of Minister Cannon of Montréal have also confirmed a Funding is also conditional upon Canadian Environmental 613-991-0700 financial commitment for this the completion of a due diligence Assessment Act, the signing of a project, both for an amount of $40 review of the project, the successful contribution agreement outlining million each. The Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, the Status of Women and Official Languages, and the Honourable Michael M Fortier, Minister of Public Works and Government Services, made this announcement today, on behalf of the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. The Quartier des spectacles is centered on the intersection of Sainte-Catherine Street and Saint- Laurent Boulevard, covering almost a square kilometre bound by City Councillors Street, Berri Street, Sherbrooke Street, and René- Lévesque Boulevard. This area is home to 30 performance halls totalling almost 28,000 seats, numerous international festivals, art galleries and centres for the exhibition and broadcast of alternative culture. The Quartier des spectacles supports more than 7,000 jobs linked to cultural activities, from education through to public outreach, including SPECIAL PROMOTION production, exhibition, and broadcasting. "Promoting the cultural development of our cities is important for the Government of Canada," said Minister Verner. "This is a priority of our Building $70 $80 $85 Canadainfrastructure plan, which is ensuring access to quality infrastructure. Our govern-ment's support for Montreal's Quartier des spectacles is a concrete demonstration of the value we place on cultural development in all its forms, ensuring the enrichment of We will match any other competitor price. citizens' lives." Kahon, hindi binubuksan,hindi Oxygenated Pi water available at: "The Building Canada binabawasan, inihahatid ng buo sa PAT LOUNG infrastructure plan is advancing inyong pintuan. 5328 Queen Mary Road, Montreal quality infrastructure," said Minister NOTE: PLEASE DONOT OVERPACK. Telephone: 514-485-3689 Fortier. "Through Building Canada, our government acknowledges the RR SOUTHERN FREIGHT FORWARDER importance of preserving, BLOCK 10 LOT 12 MARTINVILLE SUBD BF HOMES developing and improving access to MANUYO II, LAS PINAS CITY, PHILIPPINES culture." RRSFF Contact person: Robert Durano Financial support for the (Tel) 541-7224 project, for a maximum of $40 Highlights Inquiry Office: million, is conditional on the signing Rex De Lusong (Tel) 931-1780 of a framework agreement with the www.filipinostar.org 6 The North American Filipino Star November 1-15, 2007 on coops was nil. Populaire Desjardins of Canada, with Cooperative Since then, I became more than a hundred branches in interested on credit unions and the Quebec was not by chance, but rather Movement different kinds of cooperatives. Four the result of immense preparations years after, I met Atty. Mordino Cua in and skills developed through hardwork the northern part of Mindanao, who and dedication of Alphonse and It’s bigger than traveled ten countries (including Dorimene (his wife). Canada) to study cooperatives. From As for Alphonse he knew well you think him I heard about Desjardins that the fate of his plan depended (Canada), Raiffeisen (Germany), upon what the people did with it. If they Schulze-Delitzsch (Germany), Father accepted the idea and built their By Masterson, SJ (Philippines) and other Caisse Populaires, they could have the coop pioneers. I also learned from him advantages. If they did not, all would Jerry Estrada that Desjardins was influenced and fail and he would be remembered only inspired by the efforts of Raiffeisen and as a fool. That was the risk he was Schulze-Delitzsch in helping their taking. better livelihood. people. Likewise, the life-story of Dorimene was so worried What happened to the Desjardins influenced Fr. Masterson during the early stage of the Caisses. If only Philippines? In 1961, many Asian (SJ), who also convinced church, Dorimene summarized it all and countries used to envy the . school and political leaders in bombarded Alphonse with the In 1998, I took a vacation in my They dreamt to study in the University Northern Mindanao to join coops in the following concerns: (a) “We started a hometown in Southern Mindanao of the Philippines (UP), La Salle or 1960s, and subsequently coops coop in our own house to help the where I was born. One day, I woke up Ateneo. Today, these countries are the thrived all over the Philippines. people. Isn’t it absurd? Please, let’s listening to the story of my friend, a employers of Filipino workers. Some It was then that I was so close it now, before we get in deeper farmer, who relates the worsening Asian nations have sent an astronaut convinced that cooperativism can and deeper.” (b) We are not bankers economic situation over the years - in into space, while Filipinos are still really help in re-distribution of wealth why are we trying to be bankers? We his gradual inability to spend for his quarrelling about government and empowering the people. In 2003, I are just people like everyone else. Why family’s basic needs. Ten years ago, contracts and alleged rigging of found myself working with Atty. Cua in don’t we be like everyone else and just he couldn’t send his children to elections whilst the majority of the organizing coops for transport drivers, work for the family that’s growing up? school. Then five years ago, he could poorest of the poor are gnashing their workers and small farmers in urban Everyone was a potential accuser if hardly buy clothes anymore. teeth due to starvation. and rural areas of Northern Mindanao. something went wrong.” (c) “They say Lately, I heard again from the definitely that you are also a fool. same man that at present he wakes up EARLY INFLUENCE THE DESJARDINS EXPERIENCE Sooner or later when you are working and realize he could hardly buy food Back in 1998, upon hearing Alphonse Desjardins of Lèvis, with others, there is trouble. You are for his family from a kilo of fish, to a can the story of my friend, we started Quebec, then 24 years old, once sure to lose. When that comes, our of sardines and now even a kilo of thinking together how could we help mentioned, “It is my dream to do children will be on the street and will be dried fish is difficult to buy. the rest of the people in the barrio something someday to help the poor, condemned to utter poverty.” (d) You I think of his situation that (village). One early morning, inside a something that would help the people give your time to that. What do you get reflects the difficulties of the majority of 100 sq. m. chapel, we were listening to of our race in their needs.” He was out of it? What does the family get out our people where many are forced to an invited speaker from a small determined to make a difference in of it? (e) We might even lose the work outside the Philippines and that agricultural coop talking about people’s lives. house that we struggled for years to there are more than 3,000 Filipinos cooperativism. That was my first coop Of course, the Caisse own. (f) They say, too, that if Monsieur leaving the country everyday to earn a encounter. Before that, my knowledge GGiillmmoorree IInntteerrnnaattiioonnaall CCoolllleeggee are pleased to invite you to the “Writers Helping Writers” && tthhee WWoorrlldd AAccaaddeemmyy ooff LLeetttteerrss workshop inter-active, multi-cultural, motivational Your ideas should not remain locked up in your head - find a way to express them and feel fulfilled by doing so. This workshop will help you get started easily in the most interesting way. Find out the secret by attending this unique workshop which will start soon. Seminars to be held in What they say about writing: March and April 2008 Who should attend: There’s only one way to learn to write - read! People from all walks of life, fields Every person who has the ability to read can learn how to write. and occupations - nurses, doctors, What do writers do? They write. architects, engineers, clerks, What do good writers do? They write and re-write. secretaries, teachers, students - What do excellent writers do? They write, re-write, re-write, re- anyone who wants to live a fuller life. write until they get it “right.” Workshop Leaders Why you should attend: Proof of Attendance: Everyone has to write, whether you An attractive certificate and tax receipt will be given at the earn your living by writing or end of the workshop. working for yourself or others, your Proceedings will be videotaped. You may purchase a ability to express yourself in English copy for your future reference. is absolutely essential. Since NOTE: English has become the language of In addition to establishing a writers’ network, a public business around the world, speaking course will be a follow-up to this workshop. mastering the art of writing and speaking is the key to your success Schedule: (Tentatively set for Jan. 08) Isaac T. Goodine Zenaida F. Kharroubi in your personal and professional BsC., B.Ed. C. Eng. B.A. English, M.A. Ed. Studies life.Learning to write well helps you Friday - 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. International Speaker & Author Diploma in Education, TESL win friends and influence people! Saturday & Saturday - 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. “Leaders Leding Leaders” Founder & Director-General Tuition Fee: Resource Person, Transparency Gilmore International College Gilmore International College International, Fomrer Principal, Editor & Publisher, 4950 Queen Mary Rd. Penthouse 2 1/2 days seminar for the low rate of $495 including Director of Schools & Colleges, North American Filipino Star Montreal, QC H3W 1X3 taxes and materials. Human Resources Development Group Commissioner, Scouts Specialist, Consultant, World Bank Canada, Quebec Council “Laging Handa” 0592 www.gilmorecollege.com Call 514-485-7861 to register

www.filipinostar.org November 1-15, 2007 The North American Filipino Star 7 Desjardins knows so much about hearing schedule came in the heels of banking, why is it that he remains poor Palace to Senate: Don't waste time on 'cash gifts' House Deputy Speaker and Kabalikat ng with only the small income of a civil November 8, 2007 passed into law. But senators chose Malayang Pilipino (Kampi) secretary Ma. servant? If he’s so good in these Malacañang opposed the upcoming instead to waste the people's time Amelita Villarosa’s admission that cash questions of finance and economics, Senate investigation into the alleged conducting investigations that tend to gifts distributed to various local why is it that he doesn’t make some bribery of lawmakers and local generate demoralization)," Ermita said in government officials were from the party’s money?” government executives during meetings an interview on dzRH radio. funds. But Alphonse said, “Is there in the Palace last month. Ermita noted that the Palace is Villarosa’s statement supported anything that they do not say? You and Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita rushing the passage of the cheap sentiments that President Gloria I will carry on with the load and the said senators should be concentrating medicine law, the P1.227-trillion national Macapagal Arroyo – who heads Kampi – budget for 2008, and a presidential knew of the distribution of “cash gifts" to risks. If we can hold on a little longer, on key legislation pending in the Senate, proclamation for amnesty. congressmen and local government things will be better. When we help instead of wasting their time in their investigations into the alleged He said the Palace is also pursuing a executives. those who need help, we will not distribution of “cash gifts" to officials last law that will provide amendments to the In the interview, Ermita maintained measure and expect a reward. The October 11. power sector reform act (EPIRA). President Arroyo knew nothing of the caisse –that is for the people. We have "Napakaraming panukala na The Senate has scheduled for next bribes, although he admitted Arroyo has known what the poor suffer; let us not maaring makatulong sa kababayan, di week the start of hearings on the “cash been keeping tabs on developments in forget it in our own fears. If we arouse tuwing nakikita natin ang mga kuwento gift", with Pampanga Gov. Ed Panlilio and the mess. the interest of good people and at istoryang may imbestigasyon. Imbes Bulacan Gov. Jon-jon Mendoza – who "Siyempre si Pangulo di gumagawa influential people, they could help carry makabuti sa atin nakakasira ng kalooban both admitted receiving P500,000 after ng komento. Pinagmamasdan niya ang it on. When I started this work, I made ng marami. Napakahabang oras ang attending a meeting in Malacañang – as pangyayari (The president won't up my mind that I wouldn’t be turned ating nauubos (There are so many bills resource persons. comment on the matter. She is keeping aside by the gossip of those who didn’t that could help our people once they are Senate’s announcement of the an eye on developments)," he said. a know any better.” If only, the majority of Filipino people think like Desjardins, who dreamed to be useful to his fellowmen, If only, a significant number of government officials help to eradicate poverty in the Philippines, not selfishness and greed, then the country would become great again. If only, some of us realize that we don’t need abundant material things for ourselves, and share some of our blessings, time, talent and skills to help other people, then the poor people would have a chance to build better lives. When a news reporter interviewed Brad Pitt what has inspired him to become more involved as part of the Global initiative. He answered, “I am tired of thinking about myself. Time to think of others. ” Perhaps, our fellow kababayan who are enjoying all kinds of luxuries could be reminded to be like Alphonse Desjardins, or Brad Pitt. Of course, there are some people in our community who have already taken up the challenge of helping out but we need more to come forward. It is hoped that those who have the ability and the means to share their good fortune, will do so. After all, Christmas is almost upon us. It is the time of giving. If only we can all believe that “it is more blessed to give than to receive” then it will be much easier to convince people to join the cooperative movement. Let us not let the first Filipino Solidarity Cooperative down.

Let’s join the big fund raising drive for the Filipino Solidarity Cooperative Saturday, Dec. 8, 2007 8 p.m. Studio 26 Mtl 855 Decarie (near Cote Vertu) Dance music provided by the QP8 band

Buy your tickets now! Call 514-733-8915 or 514-485-7861

www.filipinostar.org 8 The North American Filipino Star November 1-15, 2007

Call 514-485-7861 for reservations or for more information.

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www.filipinostar.org November 1-15, 2007 The North American Filipino Star 9 INGREDIENTS

* 1 tablespoon vegetable oil * 1 pound ground pork * 2 cloves garlic, crushed * 1/2 cup chopped onion Philippine Cuisine * 1/2 cup minced carrots * 1/2 cup chopped green onions * 1/2 cup thinly sliced green Afritada (checking occasionally for the water cabbage not to get dry, just add a little water * 1 teaspoon ground black pepper Ingredients each time you see its almost dry up). * 1 teaspoon salt 1 kilo pork You may adjust the seasoning * 1 teaspoon garlic powder 2 Tbsp. cooking oil according to your taste and liking. * 1 teaspoon soy sauce 1 1/2 tsp. garlic (7-10 gloves), peeled Drain and reserve sauce. Set aside. * 30 lumpia wrappers and minced * 2 cups vegetable oil for frying 1 big onion, peeled and chopped 4. Meanwhile, heat oil in a pan over 3 pieces tomatoes, chopped medium heat. Fry the meat until lightly number of stars 3 tsp. salt 6 Tbsp. vinegar brown on all sides. Set aside and 4 pieces potatoes, peeled and cut keep warm. DIRECTIONS into quarters 1. Place a wok or large skillet over 2 pieces red bell pepper 5. Pour off all remaining oil from the high heat, and pour in 1 tablespoon 1/2 cup tomato sauce Adobong Baboy pan. Pour in back the meat and vegetable oil. Cook pork, stirring 1/8 cup bread crumbs (Pork Adobo) reserve sauce. Mix for about a few frequently, until no pink is showing. Tbsp. vinegar Remove pork from pan and set aside. Ingredients : minutes while scraping up the bits on the bottom of pan. Drain grease from pan, leaving a thin Slice pork into 2 inch cubes. · 1-1/2 lb. pork, cut into serving pieces coating. Cook garlic and onion in the Heat oil in pan. Sauté in garlic, · 3 cloves garlic, crushed 6. Remove from heat. Serve hot. same pan for 2 minutes. Stir in the onions, and tomatoes. Season with · 1/3 cup vinegar cooked pork, carrots, green onions, salt. Add pork. · 3 tbsp. soy sauce and cabbage. Season with pepper, Add vinegar and let boil for 5 · 1 bay leaf salt, garlic powder, and soy sauce. minutes. Then add enough water or · salt to taste Remove from heat, and set aside until stock to make meat tender. · 1/4 tsp. pepper or 1 tsp. cool enough to handle. Add potatoes. When almost done, peppercorns 2. Place three heaping tablespoons add sliced pepper and tomato sauce. · 1 tbsp. sugar (optional) of the filling diagonally near one Thicken the resulting sauce with · 1/2 cup water corner of each wrapper, leaving a 1 bread crumbs. Cook for 5 minutes · oil, for frying 1/2 inch space at both ends. Fold the thereafter. side along the length of the filling Remove from fire. (Measurement Guides) over the filling, tuck in both ends, and roll neatly. Keep the roll tight as you Makes approximately 8 servings. Cooking Procedures : assemble. Moisten the other side of *You can use chicken instead of the wrapper with water to seal the pork. 1. Combine all ingredients in a big pot edge. Cover the rolls with plastic except the oil and let stand for at least wrap to retain moisture. 30 minutes. 3. Heat a heavy skillet over medium heat, add oil to 1/2 inch depth, and 2. Place pot over medium heat and Filipino Lumpia heat for 5 minutes. Slide 3 or 4 bring to a boil. lumpia into the oil. Fry the rolls for 1 to 2 minutes, until all sides are 3. Lower the heat and simmer covered golden brown. Drain on paper towels. until meat is tender for about an hour Serve immediately. The North American Filipino Star Classified Ads ADVERTISING CLEANERS WANTED DRIVING PERSONAL Cheapest way to advertise! Commercial building cleaning Licensed driving instructor with many- Gentleman seeks lady for long term company seeking cleaners, preferably year experience and tips on how comnpanionship, age 35 & up, with experience to pass the road test. Good price. First 3 lines $10.00 Call 514-723-2581 next additional line @1.99 Call 514-731-9682 or Fax CV to (514) Jason 514-691-1816. 731-2059 Classified Ads must be prepaid * Car available for EXAM Text can be sent by e-mail or in * 1 hour practice only $25 (tax incl.) RESTAURANT person by making an CDN APTS. FOR RENT * Many examples of first time success PEARL OF MANILA appointment, 514-485-7861 ONE MONTH FREE * packages available 5839 Decarie Blvd. Bourret 3½, 4½ $545+ Oct. Nov. MR. KHALIL (514) 965-0903 Tel.: 4`344-3670 (514) 735-2985 (514) 575-4961 Buffet - Friday - 5:30-8 pm Quebec certified driving instructor Plamondon 3½, 4½ $595 Oct. Sat. & Sun. - 11:30 am - 9 pm COURSES with 11 years experience in giving (514) 341-4647 (514) 735-2985 Mon. - Tues - 2 - 9 pm driving lessons. Exam car Centre 2000 Professional Training Renovated Heat Appliances, Elevator Wed. - Fri. 12 - 9 pm available Specials WE SPEAK TAGALOG Christmas Buffet Toton 514-969-9622 • Dental Assistant December 9, 2007 • Pharmacy Assistant DAYCARE COURSE 15 choices with Lechon • Nursing Aide P.A.B. • Daycare Provider Classes to be organized • Security Agent WANTED • French Course (conversation) for January 2008 schedule. Nursing Aid course, flexible schedules, small groups, budget Info: Call 514-342-1000 Apply now for limited payment plan, experienced nurses as General Employees and Dental care provided at competitive enrollment instructors, January 2008 session, rates - cleaning $49, etc. Fork Lift Drivers New Call 514-485-7861 registerations accepted by calling for 4950 Queen Mary Rd. Suite 351 Phone: 514-570-8429 appointment, 514-485-7861 www.filipinostar.org 10 The North American Filipino Star November 1-15, 2007 TOURISM ALBAY PROVINCE Land Of The World's Most Perfect Cone

Our Lady of The Gate Church, , Albay - The beautiful spanish era stone church of Cagsawa ruins church tower - Today, only the belfry remains as a mute testimony of Daraga that is entirely made of volcanic rocks constructed by the locals. An elevated ’s unpredictable fury and devastating strength. place, it affords great views of the volcano. The Albay province is a paradise whole family. Agriculture dominates most of like scad, tuna, siganid, anchovy and located in the of the During the exploration of Juan de Albay's land area. Their major products mackarel. Aside from farming and Philippines, 460km south of Manila. Salcedo in 1573, the province and its include coconut, rice, abaca and corn. fishing industries, the Albaynons are Albay is home to the spectacular neighboring areas were known as The province is also rich in mineral good in handicraft making. Some of Mayon Volcano, the region’s crown 'Ibalon'. deposits like gold, copper, iron, their famous products are Sinamay jewel and one of the great wonders of A small settlement by a mangrove mercury and deposits of coal, marble, and Pinolpog, fabrics woven from the world. Only one hour away is the swamp was a town called Albaybay ceramic clay, perlite, silica, guano and abaca hemp and the mats made from natural habitat of the fascinating Whale (meaning "by the bay"). The town was phosphates. Lying around the pandan. Sharks in Donsol, an amazing first renamed Albay, then Legazpi, as province is a mass of fishing grounds Bicolano cuisine is famous for its interactive eco-experience for the Albay went on to refer to the province. that contain a selection of fish species rich and spicy dishes, which are

Mayon Volcano, otherwise known as the perfect cone volcano www.filipinostar.org November 1-15, 2007 The North American Filipino Star 11 mostly cooked using coconut milk Albay is filled with many natural called gata and spiced with a very hot, wonders and notable attractions in the local variety of chili called siling area include the Hoyop-Hoyopan, labuyo. Well known Bicolano Calibidongan and Pototan Caves, the specialties are Bicol Express (a very surfing beach at Sto. Domingo and hot dish cooked in coconut milk with also Misibis Island, a paradise for green chilies), Pinangat (fish or shrimp beach lovers, artists, and nature lovers wrapped in gabi or yam leaves and and an ideal place to enjoy swimming cooked in coconut milk), Laing (gabi and discover the exotic marine life leaves and stalks boiled into a stew underneath; Busay Falls and the Tiwi with ginger, chili and coconut milk) and Hot Springs; San Miguel and Rapu- Ginataang Langka (young jackfruit Rapu Islands are among the lesser stewed in coconut milk with shrimp known, but unspoiled dives sites in the paste called bagoong). country. Legazpi, the capital of Albay Mayon Volcano: The world’s most Province, is best known for its perfect cone, Mayon Volcano has a surrounding attractions, in particular, height of 2,242 meters (8,189 feet) and Local handicraft store, daraga, albay - Curtains & hanging lamps made from seashells, the majestic Mayon Volcano. Mayon is a base of 10 kilometers embracing ball lamps from abaca twine, native fans & hand bags made of "sinamay" cloth, a world renowned for its perfectly several towns. Her name was derived material woven from fibers of a maguey plant (pineapple family). symmetrical cone, which billows from the Bikol word “Magayon,” which smoke daily, a reminder that the literally means beautiful. The peak, volcano still erupts at frequent likened to the legendary beauty intervals. The buried remains of Daragang Magayon, is often Cagsawa, with only the church steeple concealed by clouds urging first-time still standing, are proofs of the strong visitors to stay longer to admire her powers of this beautiful, but dangerous charm. wonder of nature. Albay also celebrates its own Historical sites found in the festivities. The Karangahan Festival is province are the Battle of Legazpi celebrated in May is a grand Albayano Trylon, Jose Ignacio Paua Monument, celebration as an expression of wealth Old Albay, Simeon Ola Monument, brought about by a good harvest. Guinobatan and the Andres Bonifacio Katalingkasan Festival, held every July monument in Sto. Domingo. The 21-25, is celebrated in conjunction with National Museum in Cagsawa contains the town fiesta of Libon. Bicol Food geological finds from Mayon. Festival is a feast of the famous Bicol Notable ancient churches include cuisine. Bancathon is a water sport The town of Tiwi, in Albay province, is known for their exquisite pottery. Our Lady of the Gate in Daraga, St. activity participated in by fisherman John the Baptist in Camalig and St. from the different municipalities of Rose in Bacacay. Albay. a Hours: Mon.-Tues. Wed. 8 AM-5 PM Thursday -Friday 8 AM-9 PM Saturday 8 AM-5 PM Closed on Sundays.

Fill up your freezer for the fall season.

Pork loin Picnic ham Approximately Beef (with bone) 15 lbs Blade steak .19 99 99 2 lb 2. lb 0. lb Half or Whole Boneless leg pork Front quarter of beef of ham Cut & Wrapped Approximately 200 lbs .99 79 Sleeping Lion Hill - Kapuntukan Hill is called so because its contour and shape are like 1.09 1 lb . lb a sleeping lion, lying a kilometer away from the busy Legazpi pier. Atop this hill affords lb 3 viewers to relish the beautiful vista of the entire city of Legazpi and the neighboring Pork Spare Ribs 1 litre of fresh municipalities as far as the town of Manito and the alluring islands of Rapu-Rapu. Home smoked blood with purchase meat 1/2pork .29 .29 2 lb Regular smoked 8 lb bacon Beef .79 Fresh Belly short ribs 4 lb with skin 99 10 lbs & over . lb .99 2 69 2 lb 4. lb St.Chrysostome St. Remi St. Edouard

Napierville Fresh pork blood Sherrington Barrington Fresh bacon 203 219 202 Lacolle Hemmingford Fresh liver Jackson Road Sortie Havelock Exit No.6 Pork skin Canada Parc 219 Safari Class 15 Available Covey Hill Road

Boucherie Viau Inc. U. S. A. Malone Moders Champlain 83 Covey Hill, Hemmingford QC J0L 1H0 Misibis Island Beach - A paradise for beach lovers, artists, and nature lovers, Misibis is Tel.: (450) 247-2130 or (450) 247-3561 an ideal place to enjoy swimming and discover the exotic marine life underneath. www.filipinostar.org 12 The North American Filipino Star November 1-15, 2007 Star Photo Gallery

Panday Tinig at Carnegie Hall post concert reception Front from L: Peter Apelo, Dindo Miras; kneeling from left: Amir Billones, Jake Calizar, Jowen Soguilon, Gerald Castillo. Jessie Pascual, Jun Diaz, Willie Gomez; semi-standing from left: Mellie Francisco, Marivic Aplaon, Mynia Peñaranda, Gelyn Gao-ay; standing from left: Elvie Flores, Raquel Estoque, Anita Lo, Theresa Pasiolan, Jee Mae Ojoylan, Paul Imperial (Music director), Editha Fedalizo (pianist), Erlinda Gascon, Minerva Barriga, Marissa Meneses, Carmela Raquepo, Marina Ocumen, Ruel Arevalo, Lilibeth Flores; back from left: Vigie Asiatique Committee at the Testimonial Dinner at the Cabaret of the Domingo Lorica Jr., Sahmee Roux, Magnolia Camat, Edward de las Alas. Montreal Casino held on October 22, 2007

Mary Joy Lizarondo showing off some of the parols made during the workshop held on November 11, 2007 sonsored by the Phil. Folk Art Society of Quebec. The participants pose with the officers of the Phili. Folk Art Society of Quebec

www.filipinostar.org November 1-15, 2007 The North American Filipino Star 13

18th Anniversary of Gilmore International College Silver Jubilee of the North American Filipino Star both were founded in the same month of November. Thank you for your support!

Programs

• Personal Support Worker (P.A.B. or Nursing Aid) • Early Childhood Education Assistant (ECA) • Administrative Assistant • Integration Program • International Trade • Accounting Technician Certified International Trade Professional Courses C.I.T.P.

Students of the Tuesday French class at Gilmore College pose with Mrs. • Language Courses Zenaida Kharroubi (standing at left), their teacher and director of the school. - English ESL - Toefl - French FSL - Spanish - Mandarin - Filipino (Tagalog) • Computer Literacy • Keyboarding • Microsoft Office • Accpac Simply • Desktop Publishing

• Tutorials - Math, Science, Personal Support Worker • Seminars - Writers Helping Writers A group photo of the students Christmas party traditionally held annually at - Leadership Training Gilmore International College. - Public Speaking Education raises the bar but lowers the barriers to a

rewarding Administrative Assistant career. Register

now! Gilmore International College 4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse Montreal, Quebec H3W 1X3 (near Snowdon Metro) Telephone: 514-485-7861 Daycare Assistant Founded 1989 www.gilmmorecollege.com

www.filipinostar.org 14 The North American Filipino Star November 1-15, 2007 May nagbalita sa PEP (Philippine sa kanila ng dalaga, ayaw rin nitong Entertainment Portal) na break na magsinungaling. Si Christian pa FILIPINO STAR sina Rachelle Ann Go at Christian naman, pagdating kay Rachelle ay Bautista after two years of being non-stop ang mga kuwento. Ano nga together. Matagal na raw break ang naman ang itsitsika niya sa press S H O W B I Z G O S S I P dalawa at sa last trip nila sa United kung wala na sila? States for a series of shows ay wala Balita pa ng PEP, mula nang na sila. Pero ngayon lang lumabas malaman ng mga dating manliligaw dahil hindi nila sinabing tapos na ang ni Rachelle na wala na sila ni Fil-Canadian Jessica Nicole kanilang relasyon. Christian, bumabalik ang mga ito at Sa concert ni Beyonce Knowles muli siyang nililigawan. Kasama kaya Trisko crowned Ms. Earth 2007 sa The Fort noong November 7, ang sa mga muling nanliligaw sa singer si dating manliligaw na si Jed Madela Mark Bautista? ang kasama ni Rachelle. Niyaya raw Nag-text ang PEP sa publicist ng siya ng binata at dahil wala na siyang Stages, ang management company boyfriend ay sumama naman. ni Christian, upang kumpirmahin ang "Hindi kami magkasundo sa balitang breakup ng dalawang ugali," ang sagot daw ni Rachelle singers ng ASAP '07. Ang reply sa nang usisain sa breakup nila ni amin ni Oliver Oliveros ay saan daw Christian pero hindi na siya nag- nakuha ng PEP ang istorya. elaborate. Hindi rin nito sinabi kung Nang sabihin namin na reliable sino sa kanilang dalawa ang ang pinanggalingan ng balita, nagbago ang ugali. kakausapin daw muna niya sina Ang breakup din daw nila ni Rachelle at Christian at saka Rachelle ang rason kung bakit hindi babalikan ang PEP. But as of press pumayag si Christian na magkaroon time ay hindi pa uli nagti-text sa amin ng presscon ang show niya sa St. si Oliver. a Francis Square. Bukod sa ayaw siguro nitong matanong sa nangyari Amalia Fuentes denies robbery allegation of estranged husband helped her in getting the cash and other important documents. Investigations showed that Amalia In the picture (from left to right): Miss Earth-Water Silvana Santaella Arellano from was with a certain Jeric Stevens, SPO3 Venezuela, Miss Earth 2007 Jessica Nicole Trisko from Canada [Images], Miss Earth-Air Rodel Tuano, one Edmar Ramirez of Pooja Chitgopekar from India, and Miss Earth-Fire Angela Gomez from Spain. 24/7 Locksmith and Safe Vault new queen was chosen yesterday, Jessica is a political science Ph.D. Services, and two unidentified person November 11, during the coronation student at McGill University in when she was allowed to enter the night of Miss Earth 2007 at the Montreal, Quebec. Her mother, Maria establishment. These men allegedly University of the Philippines Theater in Elizabeth Asuncion Domingo, hails helped her in opening the main door of Diliman, . Ms. Canada from Manila. The newly crowned the office and stealing the documents Jessica Nicole Trisko bested 87 other beauty queen was born and raised in contained inside the vaults. delegates for the title, which was Vancouver, British Columbia. Through a text message, People’s previously held by Hil Hernandez of A total of 88 environmentally aware Journal was able to get the side of the Chile. and concerned young ladies veteran actress. Amalia’s message The pageant, which was aired live competed in the Miss Earth beauty read, “I can’t answer until I see what he last Sunday night on ABS-CBN, was pageant, which is organized by [Stevens] filed, you are the first one I hosted by MTV Asia VJ Greg "Utt" Carousel Productions. Now on its hear this. Last night we were both in Panichkul and Ms. Earth 2004 Priscilla seventh year, Miss Earth is a Manila Polo Club. So let me read his case first, I will ask my lawyer to get a Meirelles. The Brazilian beauty queen pioneering that serves Joey Stevens accused his wife, copy of the case.” is currently the flame of actor John as a vehicle for environmental veteran actress Amalia Fuentes, of In the following phone interview, Estrada. advocacy. a robbery in his business establishment Amalia defended that she merely in Quezon City last Saturday, picked up personal papers. She was in Rumored breakup of Rachelle Ann Go and November 10. a hurry, the actress said, so she picked Stevens reportedly filed a Christian Bautista getting more buzz up a stack of documents, with the complaint for robbery, as represented intention of returning them later. by his corporate secretary Editha Amalia clarified, “I only picked up Bernardo Lopez, against Amalia at the personal papers from Joey’s secretary. Quezon City Police district—Criminal I didn’t barge in. I had the key to the Investigatigation and Detection Unit. office of Joey. Technically we’re still According to a report in People’s husband and wife. Whatever is in his Journal published today, November name is still considered conjugal. 14, Joey claimed that Amalia stole 20 “I have no intention of selling the stocks certificates from various certificates. What I don’t need, I will companies; a folder containing return. That is not a robbery.” documents for a Ford Expedition, The veteran actress further Pajero and Daewoo vehicles reportedly explained that she and Joey are still owned by Stevens; a digital camera; a technically husband and wife, that they manual camera; various original titles; still own the said conjugal property. deed of absolute sale; cash worth Amalia added, “A husband cannot sue P99,721.44; manager’s check payable his wife for theft.” to SSS amounting to P131,000; During the interview, Amalia added various foreign currencies—collector’s that Joey stopped giving her the item; checkbook; and other P100,000 monthly support. She has documents. also filed a case for temporary Amalia Fuentes denies robbery protection order against her husband Although Christian Bautista denied simmer down. According to a report, the allegation of her estranged before the QC court.. a that he and Rachelle Ann Go have singing couple ended their relationship husbandAmalia is being accused with broken up, the rumor just refuses to long before their U.S. concert tour five other persons who allegedly

www.filipinostar.org 15 November 1-15, 2007 The North American Filipino Star Lea Salonga back from the Richard Gutierrez and Marian Rivera success of "Les Miserables" to star in a Valentine movie

For the past three years mula nang kung kaya't susubukan for the first time bumalik ang GMA Films in production, na pagsamahin sina Richard and isang Richard Gutierrez- Marian for the 2008 Valentine movie ng parati ang pang-Valentine movie ng GMA Films and Regal Entertainment. film arm ng Kapuso Network in With the tentative title A Very cooperation with Regal Entertainment. Special Love, the script will be written It started with 2005's Let The Love by Suzette Doctolero and directed by Begin introducing another loveteam, Mark Reyes. Sa Thursday, November sina Jennylyn Mercado and Mark 15, magsisimula ang shooting ng Herras, and it broke box-office records. pelikula, na magtatampok din sa Noong 2006, isang out of the country dalawa pang alaga ni Annabelle Rama movie naman ang pinagsamahan nina na sina JC de Vera at Ehra Madrigal. Richard and Angel for their second Ang original title ng movie ay My Valentine movie, ang I Will Always Love Best Friend's Girlfriend dahil kuwento You. Light romance ang naunang ito ng magkaibigan (Richard and JC), dalawang Valentine movies nina pero mai-in love si Richard sa girlfriend Richard at Angel. ni JC na si Marian. But for this year, sumubok ang Sa presscon ng Kamandag loveteam nila sa isang serious and kagabi, November 12, sa Studio 3 ng gothic type na pelikula, ang The GMA Network, ayaw pang magsalita ni Promise, na updated version ng Richard about the movie dahil nasa Hihintayin Kita sa Langit nina Richard presscon daw siya ng bago niyang Gomez at . fantaserye. Pero may isang statement Pero middle of this year ay lumipat siyang pinakawalan patungkol sa Dumating sa Pilipinas ang siya habang idinedetalye ang pag- si Angel sa ABS-CBN kung kaya't unang pagsasama nila ni Marian: "I'm international Filipino star na si Lea aaalaga niya sa kanyang panganay na parang naging malabong magkaroon very excited." Salonga kagabi, November 13. si Nicole. ng Valentine movie ang GMA Films Sa pagsasama nina Richard at Kasama ni Lea ang kanyang anak na si "She runs now! If you can just and Regal for next year, unless may Marian sa pelikula bilang Valentine Nicole at ang kanyang equally- imagine, hinahabol na siya ng lola makuhang bagong partner si Richard. offering ng GMA Films at Regal celebrated mom na si Mrs. Ligaya niya. Ako hinahabol ko siya kahit saan. Enter Marian Rivera. Entertainment, mukhang hindi muna Salonga. Nakakatuwa! She's such a sweet and Launched in Marimar, Marian's matutuloy ang napabalitang pelikula Halatang pagod si Lea, pero wonderful kid. She also talks a little bit stock rose phenomenally the same na gagawin ni Richard with superstar malugod pa rin siyang nagpaunlak ng now. So it's really nice when I talk to way her primetime show did. Dahil dito . a interview sa ilang miyembro ng media her. Nakakatuwa talaga!" pagmamalaki na sumalubong sa kanya sa airport. ng Tony-winning actress-singer. Tuwang-tuwa ang international star Natuwa rin si Lea nang mabalitaan Pearl of Manila dahil naging matagumpay ang niyang may plano si Ai-Ai delas Alas na kanyang pagganap bilang Fantine sa gawan siya ng tribute concert. Wala timeless musical play na Les raw problema kay Lea kung gawin ng Restaurant Miserables. "It was an honor and quite comedienne na katatawanan ang mga a challenge to have played Fantine in kantang pinasikat niya. Basta ang 5839 Decarie (near Bourret) Les Miz," pahayag ni Lea. importante raw ay huwag mawala ang Ikinuwento rin ni Lea na labis respeto kung paano isinulat ang mga Montreal, Quebec siyang naapektuhan dahil sa nasabing kanta. nagaganap na stagehand strike sa "Wow, I feel so honored and so Telephone: 514-344-3670 Broadway sa New York. Ayon sa balita, flattered!" bulalas ni Lea. "You know work rules at staffing requirements, that's Ai-Ai and you pretty know what to pati na ang mga balangkas sa pagbuo expect when you watch her. She's a Christmas Special Buffet ng isang mamahaling Broadway show, great comedian." ang naging dahilan ng welga ng mga Sa isang cruise ship daw magpa- manggagawa. Pasko si Lea at ang kanyang pamilya. 15 choices with Lechon "There's not much going on there Wala pang ibang plano ngayon ang right now because of the strike and I aktres kundi tutukan ang kanyang $7.99 + tax hope it stops," sabi ni Lea, na labis ang bagong musical play sa Pilipinas, ang Special rate for private parties - pag-aalala para sa kapwa niya Cinderella. Regular Buffet Broadway actors. Sa July 29 hanggang August 24, Starts Friday - 5:30-9:00 P.M. max. 60 persons Samantala, tuwang-tuwa naman si 2008 ipapalabas ang Cinderella sa Sat. & Sun. - 11:30 am - 9 pm Business Hours: Lea habang ikinukuwento niya ang Cultural Center of the Philippines at Mon. & Tues 2 - 9 pm Crispy pata available starting Friday Wed. - Fri. 12 to 9 pm kanyang pagiging ina. Kilig na kilig pa ililibot pa sa ilang bahagi ng Asya. a Sat. & Sun. - 11:30 am - 9 pm www.filipinostar.org 16 The North American Filipino Star November 1-15, 2007 Cristine Reyes filed case against Manny Pacquiao and resume Carlene Aguilar for protection shoot for "Anak ng Kumander"

Inamin ni Cristine Reyes na labis ginugulo ng kahit sino. Filipino prize fighter Manny training. Manny won the bout via siyang naapektuhan sa pagkumpronta "Mabuti na lang itinatayo ngayon Pacquiao once again donned his unanimous decision last October 7 at sa kanya ni Carlene Aguilar dahil kay ang Serve," pagbabalita ni Cristine. "Ito showbiz persona as his movie, Anak the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Casino in . Ayon kay Cristine, hindi ang bagong negosyo namin na disco ng Kumander, resumed shooting. The Las Vegas, Nevada. raw niya inaasahan at hindi dapat club. Yung dating Klownz sa Araneta crew of GMA-7's StarTalk reportedly The man dubbed as the ginawa ng beauty queen ang nangyari Coliseum, nakuha na namin ang visited the set last Sunday, November "Pambansang Kamao" also sa taping ng All Star K noong puwesto. Kasama ko rin dito sina Lito 11. downplayed the rumor that he November 7. Alejandria at Mark Herras, at may ilan In his column that appeared today personally sought to pull Ara out of the Sa kuwento ni Cristine, hindi pang non-showbiz na partner namin. in Abante Tonite, Abu Tilamzik spills project to quell the malicious rumor. naman daw estranghero sa kanya si "Mabuti nga ito kahit walang the details regarding the much-awaited "Para tayong loveteam na Carlene. May ilang beses na raw shooting at taping ngayon, talagang meeting between Manny and his co- iniintriga!" Ara reportedly snickered to tumawag sa kanya ang ex-beauty pinagkakaabalahan ko ito. Anyway, star Ara Mina. Over the past months, Manny. queen nang nasa United States pa ito. mahilig naman ako sa disco kaya the two have been favorite tabloid "Ang dami ko nang nagawang Hindi na ikinuwento ni Cristine ang nakakalimutan ko ang problema ko subjects due to reports that they're pelikula at naiintriga sa mga leading detalye ng usapan nila ni Carlene, pero ngayon." allegedly carrying an affair. man ko, ito yung pinakagrabe," naging maganda naman daw ito kaya't Nagpapasalamat naman si Cristine Unfortunately, the rumor gave birth to lamented the sexy actress. hindi niya maintindihan kung bakit dahil mula nang pumutok ang other damaging issues, like Manny ganoon na lang ang pakikiharap sa kontrobersiya sa pagitan nila ni purportedly presenting Ara a new In defense of Christine kanya ng 2005 Bb. Pilipinas-World. Carlene ay marami na ang nagpadala house, along with a luxury vehicle, as "For protection na rin kaya ako ng mensahe ng suporta sa kanya. gift. Speaking in behalf of her sister, nag-file ng demanda," sabi ni Cristine "Nagpapasalamat ako sa mga Ara has denied the issue Cristine Reyes, Ara said that she was sa GMA News at PEP (Philippine kaibigan kong hindi nawawala sa tabi incessantly while expressing more affected by the confrontation Entertainment Portal). ko," sabi ni Cristine. "Ilang araw din disappointment at Manny for failing to issue that transpired between Cristine Ikinuwento rin ng young sexy star akong nagkulong sa bahay at hindi comment on the issue. and ex-beauty queen Carlene Aguilar, na may ilang pagbabanta sa tumatanggap ng tawag o text, pero The strain, according to Tilamzik, allegedly over young heartthrob pamamagitan ng text message na sobra ko naa-appreciate ang mga was still evident during the shoot last Dennis Trillo. galing diumano sa pinaniniwalaang messages sa akin. Hindi n'yo lang Saturday, November 10, prompting "Mas ako pa nga ang nag-react cell phone number na pag-aari ni alam kung paano ko naa-appreciate director Kaka Balagtas to personally nang husto. Kahit si Cristine, parang Carlene. ang mga ‘yon. I hope they all coax the two stars to settle their wala lang sa kanya," confided Ara Dagdag ni Cristine, hindi na raw understand that I have to be silent for a differences for the sake of the movie. before voicing out her sister's request, muna niya kinakausap si Dennis. Pero while because I need some time for Defending himself and his actions, "Huwag na lang daw patulan at kinumpirma niyang humingi na ng myself. Manny said, "Naka-concentrate ako pansinin." paumanhin sa kanya at sa kanyang "Sobra rin akong nagpapasalamat nun sa laban ko. Pagbalik ko rito, ang Ara revealed that Dennis send a pamilya ang young actor, na ama ng sa Ate [Ara Mina] ko. Hindi talaga niya dami ko nang ginawa at hinarap. Hindi text message and even called her anak ni Carlene. ako iniiwan sa mga ganitong ko sinagot nun dahil hindi naman personally to say sorry for Carlene's Ayaw nang magkomento ni pagkakataon. Thankful din ako kay talaga totoo." actions. Cristine, however, failed to Cristine tungkol sa totoong relasyon God dahil talagang lumalakas ang Manny, of course, was then busy answer directly if she accepted nila ni Dennis. Gusto muna raw niyang loob ko," pagtatapos ng StarStruck 1 preparing for a boxing rematch against Dennis's apology. a kalmahin ang kanyang pag-iisip dahil Avenger. a Mexican slugger Marco Antonio hindi naman daw siya sanay na Barrera and was consumed by his Liz Almoro is picking up the pieces, according to Maricel Laxa

Though saddened by the court's 'yon ang totoo." ‘yong naging outcome nung decision, actress Maricel Laxa- Maricel was a neighbor of the resolution. Kasi apparently nauna Pangilinan is not bothered by some Revillames and when Liz abandoned 'yong media makaalam kesa sa people expressing doubts about her her marriage and filed a case against lawyers," said Maricel. testimony in defense of Willie the comedian-host. Maricel stood up he's doing very well. She's going to Revillame's estranged wife Liz Almoro. for the beleaguered wife by testifying in finish her Master studies. She's Speaking to Showbiz Central in a support of Liz's claims that her working on her thesis, 'tapos she's taped interview aired yesterday, marriage was detrimental, both moving on her with life. And I think ang November 11, Maricel calmly said: physically and emotionally. pinaka-importante sa kanya ngayon ay "May mga taong nagsasabi nga sa Willie was charged for allegedly si Juamee, ang kanyang anak," said akin na dismissed 'yong kaso. Ang sa violating Republic Act 9262 or the Maricel. akin naman, hindi ako naaapektuhan "Anti-violence Act Against Women and Maricel concluded her statement kung anong sasabihin ng tao or ano their Children." Just recently, the by saying: "I wish her the best, both of 'yong iniisip ng mga tao tungkol sa Department of Justice (DOJ) them the best." a akin or sa kaibigan ko. Basta ang dismissed the case for lack of merit. importante, alam ko ‘yong totoo at makakatulog ako sa gabi, knowing "Actually kasi hindi ko naman alam

www.filipinostar.org November 1-15, 2007 The North American Filipino Star 17 POLITICAL PRESS RELEASES Immigration System Failing Under Conservative’s Watch The Conservative immigration was to cancel hundreds Bernier’s Decision to Skip international meeting. government's recent immigration of millions of dollars that the previous International Meeting on “What kind of message are we targets are misleading and do not Liberal government had earmarked to sending to the international community by reflect the reality of what is going on in deal with the growing backlog of Pakistan Demonstrates Skewed sending a junior official to be Canada’s our immigration system, said Liberal immigration applications," said Mr. Foreign Policy Priorities representative in discussions on how to Citizenship and Immigration Critic Bevilacqua. "Departmental figures hold Pakistan accountable for its actions?” Maurizio Bevilacqua. show that the overall backlog of OTTAWA- Foreign Affairs Minister asked Mr. Wilfert. Maxime Bernier’s decision to skip the "Although Citizenship and immigration applications grew by NOVEMBER 1, 2007 Immigration Minister Diane Finley more than 20,000 last year alone." Commonwealth Ministerial meeting on CONSERVATIVE IMMIGRATION Pakistan’s future in the Commonwealth is REPORT MISLEADING: NDP claims she will maintain the current Processing times for the latest example of the Harper Fails to outline major problems and hides annual immigration target levels set by immigration applications have also government’s skewed priorities on reduction by 10,000 new immigrants her government last year, this does risen substantially over the past year. Canadian foreign policy, Liberal Foreign OTTAWA – Stephen Harper’s not reflect reality," said Mr. Bevilacqua. "Parents and grandparents Affairs Critic Bob Rae said today. Conservative government continues to "The Harper government actually waiting to be reunited with their disappoint hard-working families hoping to accepted 10,500 fewer immigrants families will now have to wait longer," bring their relatives to Canada. The newly- last year than the previous year." said Mr. Bevilacqua. "The average released 2007 annual immigration report Over the past decade, time it takes to process their failed to outline the major complaints and immigration has accounted for 70 per applications has jumped to three and systemic problems in Canada’s cent of Canada’s net labour force a half years from three years. immigration system and confirmed a decrease over the previous year by over growth. Statistics Canada predicts "It is tragic that new 10,000 new immigrants. that between 2011 and 2015 all - 100 Canadians have to suffer undue “Canada needs at least 320,000 new per cent - of our net labour force and hardship because of this immigrants each year in order to meet the population growth will come from government's lack of a long-term 1% target of the total population,” said immigration. vision or commitment to Canada's NDP immigration critic Olivia Chow. “As a In 2005, the previous Liberal immigration system." vast country with a declining birth rate and government allocated $418 million of Contact: an aging population, bringing enough new funding to streamline the Office of Honourable Maurizio families to Canada represents the future immigration system and deal with a Bevilacqua economic growth of this country. The growing backlog of applications. (613) 996-4971 Conservatives have failed by allowing only 251,649 new immigrants last year.” "The first act of the A 2004 Canadian Council on Social Conservative government regarding Development report projects that by 2020, Hon. Maxine Bernier the number of children and youth under “Given that Canada’s mission in age 25 is expected to decline to 9.3 Afghanistan is our country’s top foreign million, a drop from the current 32% of the policy priority and the success of that population to 26%. mission depends on political stability in Canada is already lacking skilled neighbouring Pakistan, it seems strange workers and under the current regulations, that Mr. Bernier would decide to send his international students are only allowed 90 junior counterpart to the Commonwealth days to find a job. Chow vowed to meeting,” said Mr. Rae. introduce legislation to change this law in “Canada has a responsibility to speak order to retain these highly educated out about against recent actions taken by young people in Canada. Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf, yet “Major problems in our system are the Minister of Foreign Affairs has decided missing from this report,” continued Chow, that the state of emergency in Pakistan outlining the lack of action on family isn’t important enough to merit his reunification and on Canada’s refugee attendance this important meeting.” program. “Canadian families sponsoring Foreign ministers from more that 50 their loved ones are often rejected or countries are meeting in Uganda Thursday forced to wait for years to be reunited or to decide whether to suspend Pakistan even be granted a visa. This frustrating from the British Commonwealth. The practice is cruel and hurts the reputation of Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group, Canada overseas.” of which Canada is a member, has given There is also a disturbing ten percent drop President Musharraf a deadline of of the number of refugees approved last November 22 to lift the emergency rule year. imposed earlier this month, resulting in the “There is absolutely no reason why arrest of thousands of opposition and Canada cannot accept more refugees human rights activists, the removal of from war-torn countries. Bringing fairness members of Pakistan’s Supreme Court and to immigrant families will increase the silencing of independent domestic economic productivity as we need media outlets. newcomers to fuel our growing economy,” Liberal Associate Foreign Affairs Critic said Chow. Pat-Loung Bryon Wilfert expressed disappointment at For more information, please contact: the Conservative government’s decision to Rupinder Kaur, NDP media officer, 613- send Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs 222-5048 or [email protected] Marché Oriental Helena Guergis to such a high profile 5328 Queen Mary Montreal, QC H3X 1T7 Tel.: 514-485-3689 Philippine and Oriental Products, dry goods, fresh or frozen meat, Philippine Groceries dry goods, frozen or fresh meat, vegetables, seafood, rice, noodles, spices - Distributor: Pi Water

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www.filipinostar.org 18 The North American Filipino Star November 1-15, 2007 Glorietta blast was an industrial accident - PNP Erap says he's still with political opposition November 15, 2007 dzRH radio. November 5, 2007 Estrada, who said he has adjusted Last month’s deadly explosion at When asked if the report will A week after he was pardoned and to normal life, said he wants to help put the Glorietta 2 mall in Makati City was indicate that the blast stemmed from released from detention by President a closure to investigations of an “industrial accident." This will be the an "industrial problem," Razon replied: Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, former irregularities in the government. substance of the Philippine National "Opo (Yes)." president Joseph Estrada on Thursday Estrada received a warm welcome Police’s (PNP) final report that will be At least 11 people were killed while said he remains to be a leader of the at the San Juan cemetery where he released soon. more than 100 others were injured after political opposition. visited the tomb of his father after his In an interview on dzRH radio, PNP a blast ripped through the Glorietta 2 in Estrada also said he will refuse six-year detention. chief Dir. Gen. Avelino Razon Jr on Makati City last October 19. any position in the government. "Ang kasiyahan ko doble-doble, Saturday said the inter-agency task Inter-agency investigators, aided "'Di na ako pwede bumaba, ang tagal ko rin 'di nabisita papa ko," he force that investigated the mall blast by foreign experts, found no traces of a huling position ko presidente. Kung said. headed by Chief Superintendent Luizo bomb in the blast site, leading may mag-offer sa akin ng position Estrada said he got his knack for Ticman is finalizing the report. authorities to believe that a gas leak dapat hindi bababa sa presidente, di public service from his father, Emilio Razon said he expects to receive that led to a buildup of methane gas in ba?" said Estrada. Ejercito Sr., who served as a the final investigation report "anytime the mall’s basement caused the He said he can still serve the government employee. soon." explosion people as a private citizen. The ousted Estrada arrived at the cemetery "Patapos na ang investigation, si Ayala Land Inc., which owns the leader earlier said he will support Mrs about 6:30 p.m. and left after after two Gen. Ticman is about to finish his Glorietta malls, had contested the Arroyo's efforts to fight poverty. hours. a report (The investigation is in its final findings, saying its own experts found stages. I expect Ticman to finish his no trace of a gas buildup in the mall’s ‘Un-pardon’ me, Erap dares state report)," Razon said in an interview on basement. a November 15, 2007 Macapagal Arroyo pardoned him on Oct. RP Goverment vows to probe corruption after Convicted plunderer Joseph Estrada 25 over the objections of government yesterday dared the government to recall prosecutors. world bank scraps road loan his pardon following his fight to stop the That pardon allowed him to leave anti-graft court from confiscating his Tanay, Rizal, where he had been under November 15, 2007 place." properties to satisfy the penalties cited in house arrest during his trial. The Philippine government President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo his conviction. “I’m ready if they want to return me to promised Tuesday (20 Nov) to and top Cabinet members were jail—even Muntinlupa [the national investigate reports of bid-rigging that attending a summit of Southeast Asian penitentiary]—if they can prove that I’m led the World Bank to suspend a leaders in Singapore and did not guilty,” he told dzMM radio. US$232 million loan for a national road comment immediately. He said he accepted Mrs. Arroyo’s project. Her Cabinet secretary, Ricardo pardon because he had lost hope of The bank's vice president, Jim Saludo, said the government was getting justice after six years of litigation Adams, said in a statement from committed to curbing corruption and before the anti-graft court, adding he did not have a chance of being acquitted even Washington that the lender had was working with the World Bank to if his lawyers brought his case to the address the issues of transparency in rejected two large road contracts Supreme Court. between 2003 and 2006 "because of all projects. He vowed “to fight to the end” to stop strong signs of collusion and excessive "We expect that anti-graft agencies the Sandiganbayan from confiscating the pricing" linked to government will look into and act on any solid properties that he said he had acquired procurement. evidence of corruption," he said. before he became president in 1998. The contracts are part of the Arroyo has been struggling to “If I stole the people’s money, I would national roads improvement and shake off the image of a graft-ridden not appear before the public. That is why I management program, which is partly administration amid several corruption am fighting this,” he said. financed by the World Bank and which scandals. Former Philippine President Joseph Estrada “Modesty aside, my family is quite Adams described as the country's main talks to a crowd during a medical mission in well-off,” he said, adding his grandmother tool for modernizing infrastructure. She has canc led a US$330 million Manila November 3, 2007 had an ancestral home in Laguna, and He said bank and government (?232 million) broadband contract with that they had the biggest house in Greenhills, San Juan, when they moved officials have developed "stringent anti- China's telecommunications company The former president said he was there. corruption measures" to address after a Senate hearing implicated willing to go back to jail to continue his fight against confiscation, adding he was Earlier, Special Prosecutor Dennis anomalies in the bidding process, but Commission on Elections Chairman used to it. Villa-Ignacio said he would ask for a recall that the second phase of the project will Benjamin Abalos as a broker in the “This government had put me in jail of the executive clemency granted to remain on hold "until the government allegedly overpriced deal, as well as for six years and six months,” he said. Estrada, citing his refusal to pay in full the and the board members receive the Arroyo's husband who has been Estrada, a former actor, San Juan assets stated in the forfeiture order. information they have requested." accused of pocketing kickbacks. mayor and vice president, was ousted in a Yesterday, Villa-Ignacio said the grant World Bank spokesman Peter Abalos later resigned, and Arroyo's peaceful Army-backed people power of pardon to Estrada was done in haste Stephens told The Associated Press he husband has denied any wrongdoing. revolt in 2001, and later was tried in a and would set a bad precedent. expects the board to discuss the In a speech recently, Arroyo said P4.1-billion plunder case. He said that pardon would encourage projects again in the next few weeks corruption was no longer "a problem The Sandganbayan found him guilty other dishonest officials to commit crimes because it wants "to be sure that all of within the system, it may have become on Sept. 12 this year and sentenced him because “they could later seek a pardon.” a the safeguards and precautions are in the system itself." a to life in jail, but President Gloria

www.filipinostar.org November 1-15, 2007 The North American Filipino Star 19 announced that Mrs Arroyo granted than Generals Mendoza, Berroya, Dapat, Binay gets death threats on birthday executive clemency to Estrada. and their henchmen," he said. November 12, 2007 (Sunday, October 11). De Venecia told GMA News that he The three flatly denied the younger Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay Inonog said it was the eighth text left on October 26 to visit his mother in De Venecia's claims. received 11 death threats via text message that alarmed Binay. It read: the United States. message on his birthday, radio dzMM “katapusan mo na ngayon He expressed relief that that the reported Monday. hinahatulan ka na ngayon sa kawalang relations between President Arroyo and hiyaan mo huwag mong subukan ang his father, House Speaker Jose de Ka Gloria mahal na mahal ko iyan, ka Venecia Jr, appear to remain intact in Bobot (Your time is up. You are being spite of the ZTE controversy. "That's a positive development. At judged for your misdeeds. Don't try Ka least the events won't be too politicized," Gloria I love her so much, Ka Bobot).” he said. Inonog said the mayor received The businessman had accused the threat at 10:23 a.m. Sunday. He Transportation Secretary Leandro added that the other messages were Mendoza and two other former police sent from 1:02 a.m. to 10:37 a.m. generals of hatching an assassination Jose “Joey” De Venecia III He said the messages came from plot. cellular phone # 0920-4129555. He claimed to have received The businessman said he learned Mayor Binay Senior Superintendent Gilbert information that the "elimination plot" was about the assassination plot through Binay's security officer, Vincent Cruz, Makati City police chief, said headed by Mendoza, Transportation retired Lieutenant Gen. Jaime de los Inonog, went to the Makati City Police authorities are now coordinating with Assistant Secretary Reynaldo Berroya Santos, whom he described as Office on Monday to inform them about the National Telecommunications and Ricardo Dapat, director of the Mendoza's roommate of three years at 11 text messages received by the Commission to identify the owner of Bureau of Corrections. the Philippine Military Academy. mayor on the day of his birthday the cellular phone number. a "Should anything happen to me or De los Santos, Berroya and my father in the coming days, no other Mendoza are all members of the PMA Joey de Venecia back in RP persons will be responsible for it other Class 1969. a November 8, 2007 Jarius Bondoc." Philippines inflation steady on strong peso Jose "Joey" de Venecia III is back in The businessman left the Philippines November 6, 2007 percent of its value against the peso so the Philippines less than two weeks after a day after testifying that President Gloria A strong peso offset rising oil far this year. The dollar was trading at slipping out of the country amid the Macapagal Arroyo knew about alleged media frenzy on the pardoning of former bribe offers for the passage national prices and kept the Philippines inflation 43.89 pesos Tuesday, compared to President Joseph Estrada. broadband network (NBN) project. rate steady at 2.7 percent in October, 49.03 pesos on the last trading day of De Venecia, who had dropped He said Mrs Arroyo ordered former the government said Tuesday. 2006. bombshells on the $329.48-million ZTE socioeconomic planning secretary . Last month's inflation rate was Core inflation, which excludes controversy, said there will be no more Romulo Neri to approve the project within market expectations and the selected food and energy items prone exposés in his future testimonies in the anyway. central bank's forecast range of 2.5-3.0 to volatile price swings, rose at 2.4 Senate. During the same testimony on percent. percent from a year earlier in October, "There's nothing else for me to say," October 25, De Venecia quoted business . "Price pressures from major food, compared to 2.7 percent in September, De Venecia told GMA News at a Manila tycoon Enrique "Ricky" Razon as saying non-food and fuel items were broadly the National Statistics Office said. airport. that First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo mitigated by the peso appreciation," . Overall, the inflation rate for the 10 He added in Filipino that, "Everything stood to gain $70 million in kickbacks central bank governor Amando months to October stood at 2.6 from the ZTE deal. that I had said was corroborated by the Tetangco told reporters. percent. a affidavit of [Philippine Star columnist] That same afternoon, Malacañang . The US dollar has lost 10.49

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www.filipinostar.org 20 The North American Filipino Star November 1-15, 2007 Labor to assure foreign employers of effectively match Canadian employers Global the integrity and competence of the with the workers they are seeking in a Filipino worker and provides general wide range of professions and trades. Perspectives support to contract workers while abroad to ensure that employers meet Isaac Goodine may be reached at: international standards for terms and [email protected] conditions of employment. The POEA is also the only body authorized to Government of Canada approve and oversee practices and procedures for recruitment of overseas Supports Quartier des workers under contract and accomplishes this by issuance of a Spectacles License to approved agencies. Montréal, Québec (November 12, Foreigners are cautioned to deal only 2007) - The Government of Canada, with valid Licensees in all matters of through its brand new Building Canada employment of contract workers. infrastructure plan, will consider the Isaac T. Goodine Canada established strong links Quartier des spectacles cultural precinct as a funding priority. This financing could with the Philippines when Democracy cover as much as one third of eligible costs, The Loonie and the Greenback: A tale of two dollars was restored at the end of the Marcos for a federal contribution of a maximum of Presidency and a group of OTTAWA SENATORS SALARIES have been saving or investing for a $40 million for the cultural precinct of the international agencies agreed to Quartier des spectacles. The Government 2007-08 (US$) retirement nest-egg in greenbacks? collectively provide official of Québec and the City of Montréal have Current (Cdn$)*In 2002 (Cdn$) ** Look at the chart above again, count development assistance (ODA) to help also confirmed a financial commitment for your losses, swallow hard, and prepare build the capacity that would enable this project, both for an amount of $40 Wade Reddin $6.5 million to move on. the Philippines to catch up million each. The Honourable Josée Verner, $6.11 million $10.52 million This oversimplified statement of economically with its South East Asian Minister of Canadian Heritage, the Status of Dany Heatly $5.5 the situation helps to explain that the Women and Official Languages, and the neighbors. Canada accepted the role $5.17 $8.90 economic situation has just undergone Honourable Michael M Fortier, Minister of of capacity building and focused its Jason Spezza $5.0 a “paradigm shift”. The United States is Public Works and Government Services, share of the ODA on human resource $4.71 $8.09 no longer the only world-class-act on made this announcement today, on behalf development. This was accomplished of the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Daniel Alfredsson $4.69 the intercontental stage as other major largely by education and training Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and $4.41 $7.59 players have arrived, including projects that linked Canadian and Communities. Martin Gerber $3.7 newcomers such as China, India, and Filipino institutions in partnership and The Quartier des spectacles is $3.48 $5.99 the Philippines. We are no longer in a some resulted in long term centered on the intersection of Sainte- • * Nov. 9, 2007 rate of $1.06 vs. splendid solitude and the Canadian relationships. Some Canadians opted Catherine Street and Saint-Laurent U.S. dollar workforce is not prepared for the Boulevard, covering almost a square to stay in the Philippines and some • ** Jan. 21, 2002 rate of 0.6179 competition. A former Canadian, kilometre bound by City Councillors Street, Filipinos opted to immigrate to cents vs. U.S. dollar Conrad Black, the media baron who is Berri Street, Sherbrooke Street, and René- Canada. For example, the Association on bail awaiting sentence in the USA Lévesque Boulevard. This area is home to of Canadian Community Colleges 30 performance halls totalling almost What a difference the exchange for corruption in international financial (ACCC) was linked with a counterpart 28,000 seats, numerous international rate makes! Of course the Senators dealings, has recently pointed out that Association for Non-formal Training festivals, art galleries and centres for the named here are the ones who play the the last time the Cdn$ traded above the and Education in the Philippines exhibition and broadcast of alternative game of ice hockey in a sports arena US$ was back in 1976 and that was (ANTEP). Subsequently, the culture. The Quartier des spectacles and not the ones who play the game of because Canadian productivity was supports more than 7,000 jobs linked to Government of Canada decided in politics in the Senate chambers on the highest in the world on a per capita cultural activities, from education through to 2005 to undertake the Canadian parliament hill. But the table shows basis implying that we had the most public outreach, including production, Immigration Integration Project (CIIP) how the exchange rate has efficient workforce in the world and the exhibition, and broadcasting. in China, India, and the Philippines, dramatically altered the economy for most effective management of human "Promoting the cultural and contracted ACCC as the executing development of our cities is important for all who live, work, or invest in Canada capital. In 1976 things were different. agency. Not surprisingly, the first post the Government of Canada," said Minister and the shift came about in the space Montreal was Canada’s largest city to become operational was that in Verner. "This is a priority of our Building of five short years. The strong and played host to the Olympic Manila. The Manager of the field office Canadainfrastructure plan, which is Canadian dollar compared to the Summer Games and the economy was is a Canadian of Filipino origin and the ensuring access to quality infrastructure. United States dollar is affecting the on a solid footing---for awhile. Our government's support for Montreal's latest information from that source economy dramatically on both sides of The fundamental difference with Quartier des spectacles is a concrete indicates that 1500 persons have been the boarder. The strength of the the current situation is that demonstration of the value we place on through the briefing program already. Canadian currency is due to high commodities rather than productivity cultural development in all its forms, The division of ACCC responsible for prices for oil and other commodities drives the process and is not ensuring the enrichment of citizens' lives." the CIIP consists of 14 people, six of "The Building Canada that mineral-rich Canada sells in the sustainable unless we can bring about whom are of Filipino origin, and infrastructure plan is advancing quality international market that are based on a better balance in our human capital another staff member of the same infrastructure," said Minister Fortier. contracts quoted in United States account. In fact Canadian productivity division (although not of Filipino origin) "Through Building Canada, our government dollars. is below the average for the developed has experience as the Canadian acknowledges the importance of However the “other side of the economies and the nation is not preserving, developing andddiligence Community Coordinator at the coin” shows that it is the weakening of prepared to compete with emerging review of the project, the successful Canadian Embassy during the period the United States dollar against other competition from the rapidly completion of environmental assessments when Canada provided ODA. major currencies that accounts for developing countries now in the game. required under the Canadian Environmental Finally, at this juncture I wish to much of the shift in relative value of In regard to human capital the Assessment Act, the signing of a clarify that I have a personal and contribution agreement outlining the project currencies. So the Canadian “Loonie” Philippines has a unique part to play professional interest in the recruitment details and the parameters for federal (so called because there is an image of because it is the one country that of skilled workers from the Philippines financing, and on compliance with the a loon on the obverse side of the one prepares a workforce specifically to and for that reason I have established a obligations set out in the framework dollar coin) has gained strength obtain employment overseas as an business relationship with my former agreement.Through its unprecedented $33- against the American “Greenback” (so integral part of economic strategy. billion Building Canada infrastructure plan, colleague, Violeta A. Laraya, based in called because of the color of the one English is the medium of instruction the Government provides long-term, stable Manila. We worked together at the dollar bill coveted around the world as and educational institutions tend to and predictable funding to help meet Colombo Plan Staff College when I the Yankee dollar). The net result is respond well to identified needs and infrastructure needs across Canada. was Director General and she was that if you have something to sell, such continuously supply much of the Building Canada supports a stronger, safer Director of Administration and we and better country. as oil form Alberta and Newfoundland, human capital required in the global subsequently collaborated in writing potash from Saskatchewan, or market place. The numbers are in the projects. Now, in response to a For further information contact: hydroelectricity from Quebec, that is millions and the record of performance perceived need for skilled workers in good news, but if your livelihood is remarkably high as evidenced by the Canada and with full knowledge that Karine White depends on tourism, retail sales, contract extensions and repeated Press Secretary there are competent candidates personal services, consulting, or recruitment drives. The Philippine Office of Minister Cannon available in the Philippines; we have manufacturing items to sell abroad, the Overseas Employment Authority 613-991-0700 entered into a business a business news is not so good. But what if you (POEA) serves as a Department of arrangement whereby we can I www.filipinostar.org November 1-15, 2007 The North American Filipino Star 21 Spell it “Balik-BUY-an” condominium units, is a balikbayan or a “We do cross promotions and help Discovery Hotel group said the visiting Filipino who is permanently these guests with what they need,” balikbayan also makes up a sizable Filipinos returning home residing outside the Philippines. Dizon said. and growing market for the serviced She added that balikbayan arrivals apartment industry since not all of by Tina Arceo-Dumlao “They are really looking for retirement homes here because in peak in July—when US schools go on them want to stay with relatives. terms of lifestyle, the Philippines can’t a break until September—and in “Many balikbayans choose to stay You can take the Filipino out of the be beat,” Antonio explains. “About 80 December, when the balikbayan in a serviced apartment like the Philippines, but you can’t take the percent of the people who come back comes home to spend the Christmas Discovery Suites because they can Philippines out of the Filipino. to the Philippines regularly say that they holidays here. entertain their relatives here. At the Even when they’ve been living want to retire here, and that’s why Roel Chan, brand manager of same time, they can cook and have comfortably abroad for years, Filipinos they’re buying homes.” Uniglobe Travelware Co., Inc. agrees. privacy,” Wisniewski explained. She can still be counted on to visit the For this reason, other real estate Chan said that during these months, said they usually stay for about two country regularly to renew and revitalize companies like Ayala Land Inc. and Uniglobe—which handles The North weeks to as long as a month. their ties with relatives and friends. Megaworld Corp. are targeting the Face, Columbia and Jansport brands “It’s a growing market because Data from the Department of balikbayan market, and have even set in the Philippines—notices an increase there are now more people going Tourism show that the United States is up marketing offices in countries with in its sales, thanks to purchases made abroad, and those who still have roots consistently among the top sources of big Filipino communities to get them to by returning Filipinos for their families. here will always come back,” she visitors to the country. And almost of buy property in the Philippines. “We did some qualitative studies added. them are Filipinos carrying American Willy Ocier of Belle Corp., which and results show that there is an And since the balikbayan has to go passports. owns and operates the Tagaytay increase in sales from balikbayans, back to their new homes, food The rest of the balikbayan are Highlands resort property, confirms especially in June and December,” companies are there to sell them a Filipinos permanently residing in other this. Members usually bring their Chan said, “In December, jackets and piece of home they can take back with countries, like Canada, Australia, visiting friends and family to the sports more novelty items sell, while in June, them. Goldilocks marketing manager Singapore, Japan, the United Kingdom and country club to show them a better the Jansport bags sell because it’s Pinky Yee said they usually bring home and the United Arab Emirates. side of the Philippines, he noted. time to go back to school.” polvoron, mamon, ensaimada and Like their counterparts in the US, “The club is a favorite destination Even the restaurants are getting a other pastries, so Goldilocks has these Filipinos are flush with cash, because it’s convenient to go there. It’s balikbayan windfall, especially those changed its packaging to make it which they're ready and willing to spend a short drive from Metro Manila.” that specialize in Filipino cuisine, like easier to tote the baked goodies. on themselves and their families. This Malls are also getting their fair Sentro of the Chateau restaurant She added that because makes the balikbayan a potent share of the estimated $100 that group. Chateau chief executive Ricky Goldilocks has realized a significant economic force in the Philippines, with tourists, including the balikbayan, Gutierrez said that easily 30 percent of balikbayan contribution to its income, several sectors particularly buoyed by spend everyday they’re in the country. its patrons are balikbayan, with arrivals the company decided to come up with their moneyed presence. Millie Dizon, vice president of the SM peaking from December to March. the Pinoy Deli line of cooked meals in In an interview, John Victor R. mall chain, said the group has even “They come to Sentro mainly dry packs of food like dinuguan and Antonio, chief operating officer of the entered into a joint marketing because we provide comfort food for bopis, which are approved for entry Century Properties group, one of the agreement with the DOT, under which them. We offer something different into countries like the US and Australia. country’s leading real estate the tourism department encourages from the cuisine that they are used to,” With companies themselves companies, revealed that about one in visitors to visit its malls, particularly the Gutierrez said, “We are also happy that seriously wooing the balikbayan four people who buy its single- Mall of Asia in Pasay City. The SM Filipinos here recommend the market with goods and services detached units—like the Canyon Ranch group, for its part, includes DOT special restaurant to their balikbayan friends.” tailored to their needs, little wonder in Cavite—and the bigger-sized tours in its own customer campaigns. Best sellers include the sinigang na these seasonal guests have made the corned beef, the galunggong special country part of their yearly holiday E E and sago’t gulaman. plans. a S E Annabelle Wisniewski of the M 40th O 9 C th THIS WEEK’S NEW ARRIVALS! THE WEST ISLAND'S LARGEST

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www.filipinostar.org 22 The North American Filipino Star November 1-15, 2007 SPORTS NEWS PBAM League Jumps off Nicole Mislang from the Palaboyz, and By: Joy Lizarondo Best Uniform from PAAWIS was made by a panel of judges composed of Ms. As advertised, the PBAM, Lourdes Rosales, Ms. Lucy Parial, Ms. Montreal Filipino Basketball’s finest, Nemia Bermudez and Ms. Tess jumped off its 2007-2008 season on Manuel. Cash awards were donated by Saturday, November 17, 2007 at the Ms. Glenda Lasatin, incumbent CDN Sports Centre. Ushered in by president of the Ilocano Association emcee par excellence Ed Vasquez, the and FAMAS. colorful parade of athletes brought in a Mike Nuguid (only adult in the group) seems to enjoy the company of these kids who are members of the FCAWI basketball team.

Borough Mayor Michael Applebaum gets ready to throw the ball for the jump off Borough Mayor Michael Applebaum poses with (from left) Marites Manuel, Lourdes Rosales, between FCAWI and Paawis players, November 17, 2007 during the opening of the Lucy Parial and Nemia Falconite Bermudez, November 17, 2007 at the Van Horne Sports PBAM League season. Center. reverberating ovation from excited Partial listing of the Opening Day parents and supporters. winners of the 9 Divisions, 66 teams, PBAM Vice-President and 323 games schedule were: League Manager Hal Sotero, Division Team welcomed players and their parents Lawin Kidz A: 67 PAAWIS A: 61 and thanked them for their Itlog Kidz A: 29 PAAWIS: 24 commitment and faith in the PBAM. He Aguila Steelers 43 KP 35 stated that the 20% increase in team Kuwago CAM-LAOS 71 entries was evidence that the PBAM is All-City 65 doing well in community service. Itlog Kidz C: 35 Kidz B: 16 Guest speaker Mayor Michael

Mary Joy Lizarondo poses with the FCAWI team before the parade.

Natasha Marie Lizarondo Nuguid, FCAWI team muse (with shirt no. 8 on the right) holds the banner during the opening parade. Applebaum of the NDG-CDN borough You are cordially invited commended the tremendous to join us in celebrating the volunteer work of the PBAM officers and the solid support of parents in Silver Jubilee of the promoting youth sports. Astounded by North American Filipino Star the significant increase of youth teams, on December 8, 2007 equal number of youth off the streets, starting at 8 p.m. the Mayor promised to undertake more Studio 26 Mtl sports related projects, citing the 855 Decarie Blvd. approved construction of another featuring the sports centre in NDG (Benny Farm). It QP8 Band should be noted that the PBAM is a Guest Speaker, His Excellency partner organization of the Centre, Ambassador Brillantes recognized by the Ville de Montreal as Please get your tickets now and truly representative of the sports suppor the fund rising drive for our interest of the Filipino community. Filipino Solidarity Cooperative. During the the 14 game 514-485-7861 spectacular opening, the selection of 514-733-8915 Ms. PBAM I, Joy Palermo Castellano from the Seafarers, and Ms. PBAM II, www.filipinostar.org November 1-15, 2007 The North American Filipino Star 23 43,000 regain Filipino citizenship Report: Philippines retains 6th on gender equality November 15, 2007 Libanan said the law was enacted November 10, 2007 Following the Philippines in the Some 43,000 former Filipino in line with the thrust of President The Philippines retains its rank as rankings were Germany, Denmark, citizens have reacquired their Filipino Arroyo’s administration to encourage the sixth most woman-friendly country Ireland, and Spain. citizenship in the past three years former Filipinos who are now living in the world, the latest study by under the dual citizenship law, the abroad to return to the land of their Switzerland-based World Economic The Global Gender Gap Index Bureau of Immigration (BI) revealed birth and buy property or invest in Forum (WEF) showed, according to included 115 countries. Sunday. business here. local media Friday. The poll's criteria includes Immigration Commissioner Manuel Ferdinand Arbas, who In the Global Gender Gap Index educational attainment gap, Marcelino Libanan said 28,400 heads the BI technical staff on dual 2007 study, the WEF showed that the outcomes on access to basic and applications for dual citizenship have citizenship, said his team receives an Philippines in sixth place achieved a higher education level; political been approved in various Philippine average of 15 applications for dual gender equality score of 0.7629, from empowerment gap, outcomes on consulates abroad while some 14,479 citizenship a day. its score of 0.7516 in 2006, Philippine representation in decision-making were processed at the BI main office in Arbas said there has been an television network GMA News said. structures; economic participation Manila. upsurge in the number of applicants The Philippines was the only gap, outcomes on salaries, Former Filipinos who became since the BI came out with new Asian country included in the study's participation levels and access to American citizens topped the list of guidelines that eased the requirements top 10, which was dominated by high-skilled employment; and health applicants whose dual citizenship were for dual citizenship applications. European countries. Topping the list and survival, outcomes on life approved. Many Filipino-Canadians was Sweden, followed by Norway, expectancy and sex ratio. a and Filipino-Australians have also Under the revised rules, applicants for Finland, Iceland and New Zealand. reacquired Filipino citizenship. dual citizenship are no longer obliged "As a result, these former Pinoys to submit birth certificates from the are again enjoying their rights and National Statistics Office (NSO) to Central Bank to improve remittance system privileges as citizens of the prove that they were former natural- Philippines," stressed Libanan, a born Filipinos. November 15, 2007 (ATM) networks--Megalink, Bancnet former congressman and one of the Instead, an applicant may submit The central bank, Bangko Sentral and Expressnet--has effectively principal authors of Republic Act 9225 his birth certificates from the local civil ng Pilipinas (BSP), said it had widened the delivery network of cash or the Citizenship Retention and registrars of his birth place and other prepared measures to improve make remittances and improved the Reacquisition Act. documents, such as his old Philippine more transparent the mechanisms for payments and settlements system for It was in 2003 when Congress passport, voter’s affidavit, and money remittances from overseas a faster and safer flow of remittance passed the act but the BI started marriage contract, proving that he is a Filipino workers (OFWs) and to funds to beneficiaries, the central processing applications only in April former natural-born Filipino. cushion the adverse impact of a bank said. 2004 after Malacañang designated the He said the Department of Foreign strong peso on households Acceptable IDs for financial bureau as the lead implementing Affairs (DFA) regularly transmits to the supported by OFW incomes. transactions have also been simplified agency of the law. BI the list and records of approved dual Banks will be required to post in to encourage OFW remittances to use The dual citizenship law declares citizenship applicants so that the latter their premises and websites their banks instead of non-formal channels, that former natural-born Filipinos who may secure their identification various remittance products and such as personal couriers, it added. later became naturalized citizens of certificates and leave their fingerprint charges with breakdowns of costs, To encourage overseas Filipinos other countries have not lost their files with the bureau once they visit the delivery time to beneficiaries, and and their families to increase savings Philippine citizenship. Philippines. a other relevant information, the BSP in and investments, the BSP said it a recent report to Malacañang. proposed issuance of multicurrency- Groups oppose "ocean fertilisation" in Philippines “The transparency of bank denominated Retail Treasury Bond November 12, 2007 of nitrogen-rich urea into the Sulu Sea charges would enable Filipinos (RTB) instruments for overseas Environmental groups condemned in the southern Philippines, where it overseas to shop for cheaper and Filipinos. on Monday an Australian company's has already dumped one tonne of the better service providers,” the BSP “With a proposed initial offer size plan to dump hundreds of tonnes of substance. said. “At the same time, this of US$1 billion, the bond issuance fertiliser into Philippine waters as part The company has said urea encourages greater competition would promote saving among of an experiment to combat climate stimulates the growth of phytoplankton among remittance agents and overseas Filipinos as well as raise change. in the sea and can absorb large promotes lower remittance fees and funds for development financing,” it The groups, including Greenpeace quantities of carbon dioxide -- the main charges.” said. and civil society organisations, called cause of global warning -- from the To improve OFW families’ access Commercial banks will start on the Philippine government to stop atmosphere. to financial services, rural banks will offering overseas Filipinos specialised the experiment, known as "ocean It also said the growth of more be allowed to provide services related investment products and services, fertilisation". phytoplankton would help boost to foreign exchange remittances as including insurance and pension "This is not a solution and is a fishing stocks. well as buy and sell foreign currency, plans and real estate, through tie-up dangerous diversion to the real But Inventor said the UN's the BSP also said. arrangements with pre-need and solutions to address climate change," Intergovernmental Panel on Climate This service is expected to development companies, the BSP said Jasper Inventor, Greenpeace Change has noted that ocean improve the delivery of remittance said. climate and energy campaigner. fertilisation "remains largely service and give depositors, including The banks have designed direct "It is also extremely irresponsible to speculative" and "many environmental overseas Filipinos, an option to keep payment schemes to ensure the test a speculative and unproven side effects have yet to be assessed." their foreign currencies in bank security and convenience of the method, which potentially has high The Sulu Sea between Palawan in deposits instead of immediately household-beneficiaries, it said. impacts to the environment." the west and Mindanao is home to the exchanging their foreign-currency The BSP said it had approved a Sydney-based Ocean UNESCO World Heritage Tubbataha earnings for pesos. proposal of ING Bank to launch a Nourishment Corp. is said to be Reef Marine Park. a The BSP has also approved “International Filipino Fund”, a fund planning to pump up to 1,000 tonnes alternative modes of remittances, invested in stock and fixed-income such as Internet-based remittance, securities, with Philippine National and use of mobile phones for financial Bank (PNB) as its distributor/marketer transactions using SMS/text features through ING and PNB branches for balance inquiries, fund transfers overseas. and withdrawals. “Lastly, the BSP continues to “Banks have also introduced undertake its advocacy through other new technologies to which financial literacy campaigns that aim beneficiaries will have greater access, to promote a culture of savings such as card products with debit among overseas Filipinos and their feature to facilitate remittances with families,” the central bank said. financial institutions as issuers, and Overseas Filipinos and their telephone companies as service beneficiaries are being educated providers,” the BSP said. about safe practices in investing in The interconnection of the three financial products. a major automated teller machine

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