Volume XXVI No. 11 November 2008 www.filipinostar.org Survey report reveals plight of Filipino caregivers, need for reforms Montreal, November 20, 2008 CTV news aired the release of a study about the plight of Filipino caregivers which brought to the attention of the public what the Live-in Caregiver Program is all about and how it has affected the lives of migrant workers who are mostly women. The study was undertaken through the collaborative efforts of PINAY members and the students and researchers of McGill University’s School of Social Work and the assistance of specialists from UQAM. PINAY, an organization of Filipino women in Quebec, founded in 1991, has been playing a key role in the struggle to protect the rights and welfare of migrants and immigrants, especially Filipina domestic workers and their families living and working in Quebec. During a seminar held at 6767 Cote des Neiges, a dramatization of the difficult working conditions of live-in caregivers, was an eye opener to what has long been hidden in the privacy of homes where they work. It Some members and officers of PINAY pose for souvenir after the seminar held on Sunday, November 9, 2008 at Centre See Page 4 - Filipino caregivers Resources Communutaire, 6767 Cote des Neiges, in Montreal. CTV aired the video of this seminar only on Nov. 20, 2008. No clear winner in leaders debate

Laguna Province TOURISM |PAGE 10 Contents

Cooperative News ...... p. 3

Tourism ...... p. 6-7

Community News ...... p. 8

Global Perspectives . . . . p. 10 Premier Jean Charest PQ Leader Pauline Marois ADQ Leader Mario Dumont Philippine Cuisine . . . . . p. 11 Liberal Leader Jean Charest hour televised election debate by "The question you must ask appealing to Quebecers to trust him yourselves on Dec. 8 is who you can Filstar Photo Gallery . . . p. 12 fended off his opponents who hammered away at his government's during these turbulent economic trust to handle our economy." times. Charest, who called a snap Showbiz Gossip ...... p. 18 health care and financial record in office in what turned out to be a feisty "The issue of this election campaign is election this fall with the hopes of the economy," the Liberal leader stated Home-Based Business . . . p. 14 election debate Tuesday night. See Page 9 Leaders debate Charest launched the two- plainly during his opening remarks. Be a Certified International Trade Professional (C.I.T.P.) Enroll in the Internatinal Trade Program Register by appointment at Gilmore International College First of 8 modules - Global Entrepreneurship Call 514-485-7861 to be given by Prof. Isaac Goodine International Educator & Author “Leaders Leading Leaders”

www.filipinostar.org 2 The North American Filipino Star November 2008

Marché Coop Filipino The Filipino Solidarity Cooperative EDITORIAL 4711 Van Horne Avenue Montreal, QC H3W 1H8 Let the inspiration for change be the Tel.: 514-733-8915 model for world leaders E-Mail: [email protected] It was indeed a moving making an eloquent speech. Come and visit us for our experience - a historical The gist of his message is IN STORE SPECIALS significance of untold memorable - in our diversity we proportions. For the first time, are one, and that he is the Gift baskets, gift certificates the president of the most president of all, regardless of available for all occasions. powerful nation in the world is creed, race, religion, and an African-American, born and political affiliation. That speech raised in a mixed culture, won again the hearts and minds Barrack Hussein Obama. of people listening and Perhaps, his rich cultural legacy watching him. prepared him for this role but Amidst the financial and until it happened, no one has economic crisis the world is ever predicted that it is possible facing, people are counting on to elect the first black president Obama to make the proper of the United States of America.. decisions. They are looking up What does this all mean? to his leadership. Perhaps, we Experts have a lot to say but no will not be disappointed. So far, one can say yet how this will his appointments of key people translate to real changes, to form his cabinet have been however, one thing is certain - logical and conciliatory. He is Obama inspired the youth to reaching out to everyone, even believe in his slogan “Change to his former opponents. He we can believe in,” and they has shown the true spirit of went out and voted in large goodwill and leadership by numbers. deciding to work with those who We are looking for a criticized him. He knows that leader like him - powerful, the only way to face the world’s charismatic, intelligent, a man problems and find solutions is who seems to have brought the to work together. He is using world together and transform ed his great intellect to choose his people to think that there is economic team first for he hope to make things better. Will knows that the economy is the he really meet all our basic foundation of people’s expectations? Are we on the survival. He seems able to put way to finding that elusive holy politics aside, choosing the best grail of peace and harmony? brains from wherever they are, From all that has been mixing the new order with the happening, it would seem that old. When he was criticized Barrack Obama, besides that he has not fulfilled his capturing the imagination of the promise of change - he pointed American people and the rest of out that “he is the agent of the world, is on the right track. change.” We sell fresh vegetables weekly. Hence, everyone is waiting with If our community leaders Order lechon for Saturday pick up but we need at least eagerness his inauguration on will take his example, and be a minimum order of 15 lbs by Thursday. January 20, 2009 as the 44th our own agents of change, we president of the United States of may eventually see the day Call us at 514-733-8915 to place your orders. America. when we have learned how to Beginning with his victory work together so that we can speech, Barrack Obama look forward to a brighter future. demonstrated his unique gift of Zenaida Kharroubi

The North American Filipino Star SUBSCRIPTION 4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse Tel.: 514-485-7861 (5th Floor) near Snowdon Metro E-Mail: [email protected] Montreal, QC H3W 1X3 Name ______Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Hilda T. Veloso Jean Janete Aguilar Chief Editor & Publisher Address: ______Jerry Estrada Community News ______Lina V. Fernandez Sam Ferry Mary Joy Lizarondo Dr. Victor Gavino Assistant Editor Sports News Telephone: Residence: ______Office: ______News & Tourism Prof. Isaac Goodine Nida Verginom Butaran Subscribers can give a gift subscription at 1 year (12 issues) $20 Alvin D. Veloso Bert Abiera Sales Representative 10% discount. Contributors Founder Please use the same form and indicate it 2 years (24 issues) $35 is a gift subscription. Opinions, comments of writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect that of the management of Filcan Publications, Inc. www.filipinostar.org November 2008 The North American Filipino Star 3 0396-06 Araneta, Helen 0505-06 Juno, Joan 0395-06 Araneta, Peter 0001-05 Kalaw, Carmen COOPERATIVE NEWS 0333-06 Arevalo, Armando 0222-05 Kemp, Marlyn 0332-06 Arevalo, Michael 0071-05 Kharroubi, Zenaida It’s almost Christmas - we need all 0331-06 Arevalo, Milagros ______Khourry, Shinette 0501-06 Arguilles, Herminia 0456-06 Labagnao, Jerome members to make it better 0495-06 Ariola, Arlene 0452-06 Lanada, Merien 0369-06 Arlegui, Carlito 0206-05 Lasin, Aleta May 2008 when her contract expired. It’s a continuous struggle to ______Asuncion, Milagros 0350-06 Lasin, Audifacia Our new cashier started spread the word that the Filipino 0054-05 Austria, Lerma ______Laya, Victorina working with us last May 15, 2008 and Solidarity Cooperative membership 0476-06 Autentico, Delia 0200-05 Liganor, Transfiguracion she has been doing a terrific job. should be more active in patronizing 0371-06 Autentico, Maximo 0427-06 Lim, Elma Rosa Basilan has been doing their own cooperative store. It will be ______Bade, Benjamin 0426-06 Lim, Jim everything possible to help out. She interesting to know exactly how many 0568-06 Balibol, Maryvic 0473-06 Lo, Anita volunteers to accompany me in going members really shop every week, 0028-05 Banawa, Teodora 0474-06 Loaquiao, Nicolas shopping early in the morning every however, we know that we are far from 0016-05 Baptista, Marilou 0226-05 Loria, helen week. In her desire to increase our the ideal goal of having 90% of the 0215-05 Bautista, Rodolfo 0090-05 Lorica, Domingo sales, she has been reported to be membership buy their groceries 0517-06 Bertulfo, Lota ______Loyola, Alicia Bustamante persistent in coaxing customers to weekly from the Coop. In fact, we will 0521-06 Biano, Sonia 0183-05 Lumingao, Elizabeth buy other things besides the ones be happy to see even 20% of 0221-05 Birao, Marlene ______Magallanes, Patria Lourdes they want. Someone was overheard to members buy $10 weekly. 0364-06 Brillantes, Irene 0483-06 Mahar, Derek be complaining to her friend: By way of updating our 0009-05 Bulaon, Renato 0285-05 Malumbres, Adelina (Napakakulit naman yung nasa membership list, we are printing all the 0273-05 Cabantugan, Marcelino 0484-06 Mananquil, Roselle Coop.) We want you to know that we names of our members under two 0139-05 Caisip, Rosita 0313-05 Mangubat, Felina are listening to your feedback. We categories - fully paid and partially 0008-05 Camat, Judith 0250-05 Mangubat, Virgilio have therefore asked Rosa to be less paid. But first, we will publish fully paid ______Camat, Magnolia 0131-05 Manzanal, Yolanda persistent and to be more careful with members in this issue and to be 0189-05 Casayuran, Emelita 0571-06 Mendoza, Elma those who may be easily upset. We do continued in the next issue for there is 0019-05 Castillo, Gerardo ______Michael, Annette not have to do any hardsell as we not enough space to publish all the 0256-05 Castro, Erlinda 9115-05 Mones, Conrado believe things will work out eventually 600 names. If you believe that you had 0025-05 Castro, Mike 0065-05 Montilla, Frederick as we are trying our best to offer our paid and do not find your name, 0342-06 Cayanan, Emerita 0424-06 Nolasco, Joaquina Mary members the best deal they can get in please contact us immediately and ______Celebrados, Marcela 0289-05 Nuguid, Ester Montreal and everything they need. show us your receipt so that we can ______Collao, Seonita 0347-06 Ochinang, Remedios We have started our weekly correct our records. We are hoping 0565-06 Cortez, Artemio 0069-05 Ogerio, Angelita in-store specials and we will continue that by publishing the names of all 0105-05 Cruz, Girlie 0087-05 Olivier, Louis Jacques to do so in order to make our members, we will be able to reach as 0190-05 Cubangbang, Analiz 0376-06 Orbon, Janet inventory move faster so that our many members as possible and that ______Dacayan, Romeo 0439-06 Oriente, Angelito members can enjoy fresh supplies of they will be interested in becoming 0471-06 Danzil, Gerry 0438-06 Oriente, Luz products all the time. more active by buying even $10 of 0199-05 Daria, Preciocisima 0147-05 Paglinawan, Mercydiza Before concluding this groceries every week. 0111-05 Datuan, Cecilia ______Falcon, Sharlene May month’s cooperative news, I would We will continue to stock new 0007-05 De la Cruz, Erlinda 0376-06 Paliboc, Ma. Teresa like to reiterate my appeal to all those merchandise and buy fresh 0062-05 De la Cruz, Flora 0126-05 Panesa, Teresita who have yet to become a member. vegetables if not weekly every two 0091-05 Dimaala, Ma. Ruth ______Pantaleon, Mario We need everyone to come and be weeks on Friday mornings so that our 0487-06 Desprez, Salve 0070-05 Parado, Julita part of the Filipino Solidarity members can shop during the ______Detorio, Nole ______Parajillo, Emmanuel Cooperative. We believe that it is only weekends when they have more time. 0177-05 Diaz, Pedro 0516-06 Paraon, Danilo through our cooperative that we we Fresh meat will probably be available 0305-05 Diaz, Rechie 0312-05 Paroligan, Faustina will be able to build a successful in a few more weeks as we are still 0285-05 Dizon, Luz 0464-06 Pascual, Susana business enterprise that will create getting more quotations from 0047-05 Dizon, Romulo 0567-06 Penaflorida, Lilibeth jobs for the community and help refrigeration companies that will install 0401-05 Doloso, Nieva 0171-05 Perez, Jojie improve our economic life. the cooling equipment properly. 0319-06 Domingo, Elias 0017-05 Perigno, Naida Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi There are still a lot of work to 0018-05 Domingo, Estela 0140-05 Perpugal, Cristita be done in the Coop including the 0203-05 Domingo, Isabelito, Sr. 0356-05 Pestillos, Benedicto We hope to have many more accounting and the establishment of 0116-05 Domingo, Mercedes 0238-05 Pestillos, Donnalyn members to enlist besides the the ID card system. We have only 0361-06 Dorado, Joyce 0094-05 Pia, Jocelyn following people who signed up received a few photos from members. 0146-05 Ehano, Esmeraldo 0003-05 Prada, Rosalinda during the old administration: We still need to remind everyone to 0479-06 Enerio, Nelly 0386-05 Quirapas, Nida 0181-05 Abad, Julius give us their ID size photos so that we 0239-05 Escorpizo, Christopher 0443-05 Quizon, Larabelle Faith 0267-05 Abella, Dindo can have them prepared. We are 0356-06 Estoque, Modesta 0444-06 Quizon, Ligaya 0217-05 Abueva, Teresita hoping to have our accounting done 0508-06 Eufemio, Leonarda 0066-05 Rabanera, Sherlita 0121-05 Acurantes, Flor by the end of the year so that we can 0261-05 Fabia, William 0310-05 Raboy, Michael Don 0213-05 Agustin, Conchita have the financial statements 0086-05 Fagsao, Lourdes 0548-06 Ramos, Luzviminda 0186-05 Alamay, Erlinda prepared for the fiscal period ending 0024-05 Foz, Norma 0500-06 Reglos, Gloria 0100-05 Allego, Patria December 31, 2007. It is beyond our 0020-05 Gallano, Marietta 0185-05 Repato, Elizabeth 0031-05 Almanon, Eugene control that the delay is one year 0513-06 Gao, Veraruth 0459-06 Repato, Primicias 0316-05 A,mandoron, Enrique again. Our former cashier left in 0415-06 Gascon, Estrella 0235-05 Robinson, Jasmin 0365-05 Amarillo, Domingo February 2008 consequently, our 0089-05 Hizon, Rufina 0169-05 Robles, Alex 0023-05 Andaya, Roberto bookkeeper had to take over the 0380-06 Iluminado, Reoligio 0218-05 Rogador, Antonio 0101-05 Angeles, Iluminada cashier’s job, hence, she was unable 0343-06 Insaidoo, Faith Joan 0219-05 Rogador, Lourdes 0314-05 Apattad, Rosemarie to do any accounting until she left in 0010-05 Javier, Janette (To be continued next issue) The North American Filipino Star November 2008 4 exploitation and abuse.” court because they did not know that From Page 1 Filipino Caregivers Association des aides familiales du Québec (AAFQ) and the Union des Subsequently, policies that are they had a recourse. Others paid portrayed the abuses of some travaileurs et travailleuses accidentés unacceptable to the average because Mr. Aurora obtained a employers who do not respect the du Québec (UTTAM). The campaign Canadian work environments are judgement against them and they employment contract and even ask has been frustrated by the reception extended to this population. were unable to defend themselves, their caregivers to work for other they keep getting from government Domestic workers are often separated either because they did not know relatives, or do other types of work not officials, responses that amount to the from families, underpaid, overworked about the hearing on time, or they covered in the contract. Afraid of attitude that: “There’s nothing and trapped within regressive decided not to fight the case at all. being fired, they usually do not dangerous about domestic work ...”, policies. As a result, domestic This time, some of the women learned complain and they just stick it out no “It’s not really work. It happens in workers experrience a lack of about tenants rights and they went to matter how much abuse they suffer people’s homes.” legislative protection and higher see Mr. Arnold Bennet who referred from. For most of them, it is better to The reflections and incidences of pysychological, them to two lawyers, Miki Harrar and put up with a bad employer rather than conclusions of the report is quoted physical and financial exploitation.” Ewa Gerus. At present, there are 13 look for another one as it will take them hereunder for our readers to An example of caregivers’ caregivers who have been sued by Mr. a long time before they can work appreciiate fully the importance of the problem with some recruitment Aurora but this time, they decided to legally with a new employer. work accomplished jointly by PINAY, agencies was demonstrated and fight back. They hired three lawyers According to Evelyn Calugay, McGill University and UQAM. coincided with the launching of the who agreed to join together in the government does not even ”This community based results of PINAY’s survey. Earlier in arguing the case in front of the Régie consider domestic work “real work”. survey serves to document the the day, a hearing of four caregivers des logements in order to show a For this reason, caregivers are not immigration, working, health and was held at the Regie des Logements pattern of Mr. Aurora who has been covered by CSST (Commission de la safety conditions faced by domestic They were sued by their recruiter, Mr. able to collect more money than what santé et securité au travail). Hence, it workers in Montreal. Having reached John Aurora, administrator/owner of the caregivers owed him. The nine was important for PINAY to have a nearly150 domestic workers - a Super Nanny, an agency that recruits cases remaining will be heard at a better understanding of the work and notoriously hard-to-reach population - nannies from different countries like later date which is not yet known at health conditions of Montreal-based allows us to paint a portrait which has the Philippines, Hongkong, Taiwan, press time. If anyone who missed the domestic workers for a number of never been done in Quebec. We see a and the Middle East to work as live-in CTV news report is interested to hear reasons: 1) to have a factual mixed situation for domestic workers. caregivers in Canada. One of the it, the link to the website is as follows: information on which to base PINAY’s Many enjoy decent working, health lawyers, Mr. William de Marchand, http://montreal.ctv.ca/cfcf/video advocacy work regarding the and safety conditions but there are a represented two caregivers. He was popup?news id=27529,. A French immigration, labour and CSST policies significant number who do not. And, interviewed by phone for this article. Radio Canada reporter, Gino Harel, affecting domestic workers; 2) to reach unfortunately, questions of According to Mr. de interviewed some of the caregivers for out to isolated domestic workers, immigration and the fact of working in Marchand, Mr. Aurora is paid quite a their testimony about what happened letting them know that PINAY is there a private home makes it exceedingly bit of money, US$4500 to find jobs for to them. You may listen to this radio to support them and offering them difficult for those who have problems these caregivers but when they arrrive show by going to the website of Radio information about their basic rights; 3) to seek recourse. Of the issue that here in Canada, nine out of ten Canada, and search for November 13, to empower the existing PINAY have been raised in this survey, the persons do not have a job. While 2008 show of Mr. Desaultels. The membership by involving them in the most important include: domestic they are waiting for an employer, they report was in French but some parts development, implementation and work is overwhelming the work of stay in Mr. Aurora’s office, for one or are in English, as the caregivers reply analysis of a research that directly immigrant women, domestic workers two weeks, sleeping on the floor. in English. touches their lives, and 4) to ensure often have to support not only their Then, Mr. Aurora would offer them one For more informatio about that PINAY’s activities are continuing to family in Canada but also their family of his housing and ask them to pay an caregivers and their rights, contact answer to the needs and interests of abroad on their meager salaries, average of $200 each. But first he PINAY at 514-364-9833, Evelyn contemporary domestic workers. By access to sick days and holidays is makes them sign a lease. He has also Calugay, Chairperson. having a formal report, PINAY can sketchy for domestic workers, been reported to have made an The North American Filipino continue with its advocacy work to ask domestic workers have diffiiculty addendum to the leases but the Star is interested in hearing from the government to make some accessing or are even excluded from women do not know what they are as caregivers, live-in or live-out, to tell us changes in their policies to improve government protections (such as EI, they are not even given a copy of the about their own experiences, both the working conditions of caregivers. Labour Standards, and CSST), lease in most of the cases. good and bad. They can write to the Since 1992, the Live-in domestic work poses numerous risks Considering that the rooms are Editor, 4950 Queen Mary Road Caregiver Program (LCP) has served to health and safety, and domestic overcrowded and are not really very Penthouse, Montreal, QC H3W 1X3, or as the framework for the international workeres have difficulty accessing nice, the rent is too expensive. Then by e-mail to: [email protected]. flow of labour within the current health services. when the women find a job, they leave Any new developments in the context of the shortage of affordable This situation motivates PINAY his housing to live with the employer, advocacy for caregivers will be child and elder live-in care. The to continue its organising and or they leave because his place is too published as they become available. programme allows individuals, advocacy work for the righs and far from their work. Besides, they do Organizations and other groups overwhelmingly women, migrate to wellbeing of domestic workers, not feel comfortable living in crowded involved in presenting briefs to Canada and complete 24 months of especially those under the LCP. The rooms. Then Mr. Aurora would sue government agencies are welcomed live-in caregiver work in a government- results of this survey will help to orient them for breaking the lease. In to send their press releases to the approved employer’s home within a their work in relation to: previous cases, some of the women North American Filipino Star. a three-year period, then these women - Demanding that domestic reported they know of some have the right to apply from within workers be covered by CSST caregivers who had to pay him out of Canada to become permanent compensation measures residents. - Demanding that the 3-month In recent years, criticisms delay in medicare coverage for new against the LCP have been cited by Need Money? arrivals in Quebec be abolished and community groups interested in the LCP workers be covered while they protecting and improving the lives of are on open work permits and domestic workers. There was a applying for permanent residency Do you have a full time job? successful campaign in 2001 to have - Fighting abuse by domestic workers covered by the recruitment agencies same Labour Standards as all other Apart from these specific If yes, call (514) 344-1499 Quebec employees. Now domestic campaigns, there is a basic need to workers have, at least in law, the same provide information and education on minimum standards as all other domestic workers’ rights and support workers but when it comes to for them when they face difficulties. AND GET CASH NOW! workplace accidents or illness, Our study supports the claim domestic workers are still excluded. that domestic workers’ “... status as Since 2006, there has been a women, as migrants or non-nationals, “CSST for Domestic Workers” and as workers in gender segregated campaign led by PINAY (the Quebec labour markets makes international Good & Bad Credit Accepted Filipina Women’s Organization), the female migrant workers vulnerable to Immigrant Workers’ Center (IWC), the various forms of discrimination,

www.filipinostar.org November 2008 The North American Filipino Star 5 Hutchinson is still barricaded in the top issue, throwing out private claimants' Fight over Philippines island floor of the 6,000-square-metre (1.5- bid to secure legal titles to land on acre) Sand Castles resort after his which hundreds of millions of dollars paradise turns ugly landlord canceled his lease and seized have been sunk into tourist-related the ground floor with the help of armed building improvements. Boracay, with its crystal clear havens. private security. Only 10 percent of the area has But the scramble to secure water, white powder sand and constant The glass facade was shattered in land titles, with the rest of the resort ownership of some of the most sunshine, presents itself as a slice of the takeover skirmish. No one was hurt owners and residents essentially valuable real estate in the country has paradise but scratch the surface and but the hotel guests fled, leaving leasing space by paying real estate led to violence including tear gas, fires the island is seething with discontent. fibreglass kayaks scattered in the yard. taxes. and allegations of kidnapping, as well The bone-shaped, 1,000-hectare "If these things (property disputes) "While it's not really a major irritant as prolonged court action. (2,470-acre) island in the central continue no one in his right mind because people have a way of settling Recently a 1.5-hectare (3.6-acre) Philippines has been transformed in 40 would want to come and visit this these, it has remained an irritant warren of tourist shops, restaurants years from a sleepy limestone outcrop place," Superintendent Arnold because of the untitled nature of and inns was burnt to the ground without electricity into one of the Ardiente, police chief of this tourist properties here on the island," said ending one family's long, legal fight to country's priciest chunks of real estate. island told AFP as his men brought Florencio Miraflores, the congressman keep the property they had spent years A fifth of the country's tourist traffic, food and toiletries upstairs to for the district. developing. mostly big-spending Americans and Hutchinson and his family. Miraflores, who also owns land The Supreme Court has since Europeans, winter along its 4.5- "It's not good for the island," Steve here, is pushing a bill that would allow awarded the property to a major kilometre (2.8-mile) stretch of pristine Murray, a burly Australian shopkeeper families who have been in Boracay for developer. beachfront that is drenched in year- who doubles as his country's consular 30 years to apply for legal titles to their Police reported finding "molotov round tropical sunshine. warden for the area, said of the plots. property disputes. With Philippine tourist arrivals He has seen a few during his eight projected to break through the four years here, but "many of them are kept million-mark this year despite a global quiet" so as not to upset the tourists. economic slowdown, three top hotel Ardiente said: "There have been chains are expected to open within a several incidents involving land year. disputes that turned violent. People Filipino-American hotelier Ariel would shoot at each other and people Abriam, who is buying up rights to would die, but all these cases are now beach-side property here, accepts in the courts." that, like in Cancun or Waikiki, Boracay The local resort owners' businesses would undergo association, called Boracay consolidation with only the big players Foundation, is steering clear of the left standing as the tourist destination controversies and refusing to matures. comment. "All these little shops on the Still, with the peak tourist season beachfront are going to disappear. It's just a month away, the locals are up in just a matter of time," said the ex-US arms over a 2006 government edict navyman, who spent his pension to that declared 40 percent of the island a build the 30-room Boracay Beach Club forest reserve. hotel that is favoured by Filipino movie Flames engulf several disputed beachfront establishments on Boracay on November The Supreme Court recently stars and retired US servicemen. a 5th. The resort island, with its crystal clear water, white powder sand and constant upheld President Gloria Arroyo on the sunshine, presents itself as a slice of paradise but scratch the surface and the island is seething with discontent. Kite-boarders, sailboats, banana cocktails and an unknown flammable boats, swimmers and scuba-diving substance" among the ruins -- and parties jostle for space along the clear, despite rumours, no one seriously turquoise-tinged waters that are a few believes, the owners would burn down yards (metres) from hotels, tattoo their own possessions. parlours, bistros and other tourist Nearby, Australian hotelier Gregory

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www.filipinostar.org November 2008 6 The North American Filipino Star town. A trip to Dalitiwan River, located TOURISM in Botocan, Majayjay, is an exciting adventure because the terrain is rugged, as mountain lands go, and the LAGUNAcool water or river gushes through the rocks and boulders along the PROVINCE watercourse in sweeping currents. The mystical Mt. Makiling in Los Baños is Resort Province of the Philippines an inactive volcano, rising to about 1,109 meters above sea level. It is Laguna,is a haven of fresh and indeed endowed with nature’s beauty, pristine bodies of water such as hot making it ideal for all types of nature springs, lakes, and waterfalls. Most tripping, from trekking to bird and notable is Pagsanjan Falls, formerly butterfly watching and even camping. called Magdapio Falls, referred to as Laguna is not only endowed with “shooting rapids.” It is found in Cavinti, natural wonders. It also plays an starting from Pagsanjan town. Another important role in the country’s history is Lake Caliraya, which is located as the birthplace of Dr. Jose Rizal, the between Cavinti and Lumban. The country’s national hero, whose infancy strong mountain breeze that blows and early manhood were spent in the from the Sierra Madre Mountain towns of Calamba and Biñan. A Ranges and the distant Mount number of churches of Spanish- Banahaw makes the lake an ideal influenced architecture in intricate place for aqua sports like wind surfing, Romanesque and Baroque design, Buruwisan Falls in Famy Sinoloan, Laguna water skiing, sailing as well as game mostly restored to their original fishing. Approaching the province is elegance, are also found in the one of the most pleasant 1 ½ hour drive province. in all of Luzon. The province is one huge Innumerable hot springs abound in showcase of Southern Tagalog the province, including the famous craftsmanship. The town of Paete is Hidden Valley Springs which is famous for its woodcarvings, papier located in a secluded part of Alaminos mache, and handmade paper

A row of the sturdy, rustic Nipa Huts, famous in the tropics because its structure allowing the interior to remain breezy and cool even during the hottest months of the year. It is made of dried coconut leaves, woven together by abaca. 8 such Nipa Huts line the lakefront of Villa Escudero

Lake Caliraya - The man-made lake was built by American engineers in the 1930s in order to provide hydroelectric power in the region. Lake Caliraya is situated at 1,200 feet above sea level. It is endowed with cool winds, clear water, and the surrounding greenery.

Hidden Valley Springs, a popular family outting The Nagcarlan Church was built during the mid & picnic spot 1800s, and is one of Nagcarlan's historical products.Tree seedlings, sampaguita structures. The other famous structure in town flowers, orchids, and exotic plants are is the Underground Cemetery. big business. Cut flower farms are made from banana fiber is found mostly in towns of Calamba, painstakingly, albeit deftly, transformed Los Baños, and Bay. Sweet tropical into beautiful pieces of clothing worthy fruits abound, such as the lanzones of being tailored into the Philippine from Paete, pineapple from Calauan, national costume, the Barong Tagalog. The Grand Carousel in Enchanted Kingdom, the largest amusement park in the Philippines. chico, banana, mango, rambutan, Shoes made from abaca hemp is a Grand Carousel, located in Victoria Park (one of the Park Zones in EK), welcomes you into the and avocado. Add to these Laguna’s age of Victorian elegance. One can meet and greet the park's mascot, the Wizard, and take a growing industry in the town of Liliw. magical ride on the zone's centerpiece attraction. embroidered garments. Jusi cloth Owing to its nearness to Manila, Laguna is presently becoming the www.filipinostar.org November 2008 The North American Filipino Star 7 center of economic activity in the - Pagsanjan: The town of Pagsanjan is Southern Tagalog Region and the blessed with natural wonders – the Calabarzon area. Business in the area awe-inspiring gorges, the roaring is bustling as shown by the presence rapids, and the Pagsanjan Falls, a plus of several industrial estates designed factor that made Pagsanjan one of the for handling large scale firms engaged premiere tourist attractions of the in textile manufacturing, electronics, country. food processing, industrial machines, - Mount Makiling: The mystical Mount and car assembly. Today, Laguna is a Makiling is an inactive volcano rising to thriving province. Its fertile lands about 1,109 meters above sea level produce millions of pesos’ worth of - Enchanted Kingdom: Linger in one coconuts, rice, sugar, citrus fruits, of the Philippines’ finest theme parks, lanzones, and other agricultural located in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, where products. Its tourist spots attract a you can indulge in themed activities multitude of foreign and domestic and fun rides for hours at affordable tourists. Other spots not to miss rates. a include:

The province owes its name to this body of water that forms its northern boundary which, in turn, was named after the first provincial capital, the town of Bay. Laguna de Bay is known to be Southeast Asia’s largest fresh water lake. It stays pristine throughout the year as the area is blessed with regular rain showers.

Lumot Lake

[ Top & Above ] Built in the 18th century by the Franciscan Missionaries, the Underground Cemetery is enclosed by a circular structure. A red-tiled walk leads straight to the small chapel, where an altar-like structure is located. The tombstones are embedded on the brick walls of the cemetery and the basement. At the crypt of the cemetery, is where the local Katipuneros, plotted against Spanish rule. Majayjay Church Pakil Church

Pagsanjan, Laguna - a great place to go rafting Bunga Twin Falls, Laguna www.filipinostar.org November 2008 8 The North American Filipino Star COMMUNITYv NEWS Cotler introduces the company's fiscal year — rose by 16.5 percent to $848.7 Accountability Act million as the airline increased its passenger load by 11.2 Liberal MP and Opposition percent from a year ago to Human Right Critic, Irwin Cotler, 4.19 million passengers. today introduced the Sudan Accountability Act, the first-ever However, total expenses legislation aimed at enhancing the ballooned 37.3 percent during role of Canada and the international the same period to $971.8 community in combating the million, with fuel — the biggest genocide by attrition in Darfur. In introducing the Bill, the expense item — accounting for founder of the Save Darfur $386.8 million, the company Parliamentary Coalition noted that, “It said. Additional income from is only appropriate that on the eve of changes in valuation of the 60th Anniversary of the Genocide outstanding derivative assets Convention legislation be introduced to combat the first genocide of the amounting to $9.3 million 21st century.” reduced losses to $113.8 The proposed legislation million. provides for targeted Government divestment from Sudan and requires that Government contactors certify FAMAS Info Capsule they do not conduct business in FAMAS is pleased to IN MEMORIAM Sudan. In particular, the legislation instructs Canada to act in concert announce a collaboration with with the international community - the Filipino Canadian Teachers' and the UN - to pursue initiatives Association of Quebec in aimed at ending the genocide, offering its Philippine Heritage including the effective deployment of the joint UN-AU mission, the delivery Programme.. We invite parents of humanitarian aid, and the to register their children by surrender of Sudanese genocidaires either sending me an e-mail or to the International Criminal Court. calling FAMAS at 514-341- “We know that more than 7477. 400,000 have died in this genocide by attrition, that 3 million have been FAMAS Philippine Heritage displaced and at least four million are Programme on a life-support system,” said Cotler, * Sundays, 2 pm to 4 pm adding: “As the student posters at * A public service offered for Darfur rallies ask, ‘If not us, who?’ free by FAMAS and the Filipino and ‘If not now, when?.’ This Maria Corazon Eriza legislation alone will not end the Canadian Teachers' Association genocide, but it is a vital and of Quebec 1940 - 2008 necessary step. The time to act is * Students will participate and now.” Contact: (613) 995-0121 present a cultural presentation Philippine Airlines at FAMAS' Children's Christmas reports $114M loss Party, December 14, 2008 OBIS on line business in 1st half * Students will also be information is looking for sales awarded certificates at FAMAS' MANILA, Philippines Graduation Day in June 2009 reps. Clear English speaking (AP) — The national carrier FAMAS Computer Literacy Filipinos, hardworkers, will get Philippine Airlines said Programme by Jim Balanga Wednesday an unprecedented *Sundays, 4 pm to 6 pm paid every week on time. surge in fuel prices left it with a *Class is limited to 5 Full time positions. loss of $113.8 million during participants at the moment; the fiscal first-half. Register early or request to be Please contact Elvin 514-831-0940 The company said the included in the waiting list. average price of aviation fuel nearly doubled from $83.73 Riza Trillanes Esmeralda per barrel in July-September Director of Public and MONT-CAL LOGISTICS Inc. 2007 to $157.03 during the Government Relations 410 rue St. Jacques, Lachine H8R 2E8 same period this year. Philippine Association of Tel.: 514-366-1020 FAX 514-366-1028 As a result, the company's total Montreal and Suburbs E-Mail: [email protected] comprehensive income of (FAMAS) Serving the $45.8 million in April-June was community since 1963 "more than erased" by the fuel 4708 Van Horne Ave. Hiring class 1 Local and price increases in the following Montreal, Quebec Long Distance Team Drivers quarter. Metro Plamondon The revenues for April- Tel. 514-341-7477 Please contact: Mark - 514-366-1020 September — the first half of

www.filipinostar.org November 2008 The North American Filipino Star 9 Both Dumont and Marois private sector-friendly health-care moderator Stéphane Bureau to From Page 1 Leaders Debate pressed Charest on Quebec's pension proposals, accusing Dumont of interject several times in an attempt to securing a majority after heading up a fund, suggesting it has bled more comparing health care to going to a restore order. 20-month minority government, said money than the government is ready restaurant when he talks about But when it came to Quebec's the Liberal party is best prepared to to admit. creating "à la carte" services. perennial core issue – sovereignty – handle challenges arising from the Leaders clash over health care Dumont shot back later, the discussion was more subdued global financial crisis. Charest and Marois traded saying, "If I understand correctly, you than in any recent election campaign. ADQ Leader Mario Dumont barbs about Quebec's health care don't have any solutions," referring to Marois and Dumont both promises to help middle-class system, accusing each other of long pediatrician waiting lists. indicated their intention to eventually Quebecers. ADQ Leader Mario damaging the system while in power. When a viewer's question relaunch constitutional talks, while Dumont promises to help middle-class The Liberal leader said Marois about caregiver support was Charest underscored the urgent need Quebecers. Parti Québécois Leader was behind waves of nurse and doctor broadcast, Dumont paid subtle tribute to address economic matters instead Pauline Marois, appearing in her first retirements in the 1990s when she was to popular Quebec singer-songwriter of sovereignty. leaders' debate, said Quebec needs a health minister under PQ premier Chloé Sainte-Marie, who has The Liberal government won "government that takes decisions, and Lucien Bouchard. Her decision back singlehandedly campaigned on the more powers for Quebec by brokering that tells Quebecers the truth." then precipitated the current staff issue while caring for her ailing agreements with the federal Voters in the province didn't shortages, Charest said. partner, filmmaker Gilles Carle. government on key issues, including want an election, she said, accusing Liberal Leader Jean Charest Polls suggest health care health, Charest said. Charest of calling an election to avoid was the main target in Tuesday night's remains a top priority for Quebec Dumont stressed the coming clean about Quebec's debate. Liberal Leader Jean Charest voters. importance of negotiating a new place financial health. was the main target in Tuesday night's National question loses some fervour for Quebec in the Canadian "Mr. Charest has a new slogan debate. (Jacques Boissinot/Canadian The two-hour French-only Constitution, while Marois reiterated – Elections Now, the Truth Later," said Press)Marois said she'd "never do that debate at the national assembly the PQ's ultimate goal of achieving Marois. again," reminding Charest that when focused on four separate topics: sovereignty to improve the province's Action Démocratique du Bouchard and the PQ took power late health, the economy, education and future prospects. a Québec Leader Mario Dumont, who last decade, "we faced a deficit, and family, and Quebec's future. drew third place for the debate's we saved the health care system." PQ Leader Pauline Marois Learn to speak French the opening statements, said middle-class The Liberals, on the other says Quebecers want a government Quebecers need more cash flow, and hand, have created a "fiasco" in their that 'tells the truth.' PQ Leader Pauline fast and easy way an ADQ government would help them efforts to improve the health care Marois says Quebecers want a Register now at with that. system, Marois said. government that 'tells the truth.' Dumont, who is suffering from "You haven't even been able to (Jacques Boissinot/Canadian Gilmore International dismal poll showings in this campaign, build a hospital," she quipped, Press)The new debate format, with College referring to the repeatedly derailed leaders sitting around a round table, played up his recent stint as Call 514-485-7861 Opposition leader in Quebec's and bloated master plan to build a did not discourage anyone from legislature, saying his team "is readier CHUM mega-health centre in interrupting or talking over the other. than ever to work for you." Montreal. The debate frequently burst into Charest attacked the ADQ's cacophony, which prompted

www.filipinostar.org November 2008 10 The North American Filipino Star greatly from a course in cross-cultural have nationals working abroad. Global communications that was designed There are about nine million and delivered by Pierre Casse, Author ‘Pinoys’ (Filipinos) using English while Perspectives of Training for the Cross-cultural Mind. working abroad and in the case of the Later on he became a contributor to by Cayman Islands they form the largest my book, Leaders Leading Leaders. component of the labor market While in the Philippines, I worked with outnumbering ‘Citizens’ in the Violeta A. Laraya, Author of Working in workplace of several establishments. a Cross-Cultural Environment, and There are more people in China using later she was the Editor of my book on English as their main working Leadership. While living in Barbados I language now than there are working became associated with Junior in English in the USA, Canada and Campbell a linguist with special Mexico combined. Several years ago, expertise in Caribbean English, a school boy in Korea won an English Isaac T. Goodine especially the ‘Bajan variety which language prize that included a trip to includes a special Dictionary for the USA and when he visited the UN On reinventing oneself again & again Barbados. He is now publisher of he decided to become a Diplomat and ‘Tides Caribbean’ from his current now he, Ban Ki-Moon, is Secretary One year ago the heading for be more readily learned thereafter. home base in England. For the past General of the United Nations. His few years, I have worked with Zenaida Countryman Dr Man-Gon Park, my article on Global Perspectives was I am currently working to Ferry-Kharroubi, Chief Editor and became Eighth Director General of the ‘On reinventing one’s self’.” Now, I establish an “A-Team” to develop a Publisher of the Filipino Star, and Colombo Plan Staff College, and upon have added to the title ‘again & again’. program to incorporate different ways owner of Gilmore International assuming the position declared ‘For Why so? of communicating in English—so College, in Montreal, Canada. She was the next five years I am no longer I have been extended the called, from different regions. Here is a recent winner of a distinguished Korean’—that was his way of saying position of Director to serve on the some background to the scheme. award for Filipinos Abroad presented he represents the 20 member board of directors for the New York- During my career in international to her in Washington DC, The latest countries and not just his homeland. based Global Alliance for International development the economy has ‘recruit’ to my network of distinguished Both men still speak with an ‘accent.’, Advancement (GAIA). So I am become global and, belatedly, cross-cultural communications but who cares? Many ‘Canajuns’ reinventing myself yet again, and will education and training have only practitioners is Forte Gerardo. Author (Canadians) also have funny accents work with GAIA over the next two-years started to be internationalized. As the of Ka-initindi’ han (Mutual ‘Eh’ according to speakers-of-other- to help promote international need to unlock cultural resources Understanding) Canadians’ Practical languages who have trouble advancement. became more apparent we gained a Guide, Dealing With Today’s Global understanding what a “Canuck’ A year ago I wrote that a large better understanding of the importance Filipinos. (French-Canadian) means when he is and growing number of people are of learning to communicate more Forte is the incoming referring to the ‘Arsseyempe’ (RCMP) now in a state of “retro-retirement”; effectively cross-culturally. I had President of the Canada Filipino and their musical ride. Most meaning they still work either on fixed- extensive experience in Zambia as the Business Council and is prepared to Australians, with funny accents, would term or part-time assignments in their leader of a team of professionals from add his expertise to the growing have no trouble understanding area of expertise. I am one such over 20 countries and to work in Kenya demand to find a better way to someone from the Soloman Islands person and know many others, with a team who had more than communicate throughout the global who would comment about ‘Number particularly in the arena of international seventy ‘person-years’ of collective workforce and to serve immigrant one pickinen for missus quinn’ development where I have worked for experience in 15 countries and in each communities already established and meaning (First born child of the many years. In my own state of retro- case we instituted team-building destined to continue growing in Queen), Prince Charles, who had a retirement I have welcomed the programs for faculty members that several as remittances to the home birthday bash (party) last week when creation of GAIA and appreciate this included language development country have become the mainstay of new opportunity to contribute to based on using a common approach the economy for several countries who See Page 14 Global Perspectives international development as a logical to ‘English as the language of extension of my career. instruction’. Three specialists in As with all international teaching English as a second RESTAURANT undertakings, the success of GAIA will language applied their skills in the LA MAISON NEW KUM MO depend heavily on our ability to build a context of career and technical corporation based on sound education ---and it worked. They were, 66565565 CCoteote d desesk NNeigeseiges, 5047 Henri Bourassa Est Peter Bonsey, of England, Ron Montréal, QC H1G 2S1 professional ethics, solid academic Montreal, QC (Corner Appleton) qualifications, a track record of Balsdon, of Canada, and Lucy Tel.: (514) 322-3133, 322-3130 Turinitsa, of the Ukraine, and I regret successful experience, effective inter- Fish Maw Seafood Soup that they are no longer available but Bean Curd Seafood Soup personal skills, with well developed 1/2 Crispy Chicken Baked Lobster with Ginger their methods have been documented cross-cultural communications ability. Salt and Pepper Pork Loin Seafood with Chinese as a guide to develop a ‘working GAIA‘s stakeholders are its members, Stuffed Bean Curd with Broccoli the clients they serve, and the language’ based on business and Shrimps technology as the path to career Saltand Pepper Cuttle Fish agencies that provide financial and Sauted Seasonal Vegetables Fried Sea Bass Fish success in transcending national Steamed Rice technical assistance for international Steamed Rice boundaries. This is in contrast to the $37.95 development. GAIA is not beholden to $58.95 ‘shareholders’ so its success depends present approach of teaching English 4 Persons 4 Persons on meeting the expectations of all its as a second language (ESL) that is in isolation from the job market and fails stakeholders. This makes Bean Curd Soup Fish maw seafood soup to advance the career prospects of transparency and effective 1/2 Crispy Chicken 2 Baked Lobsters with Ginger communications of paramount immigrants and international workers. Seafood with Eggplant Shrimp Cake with Chinese importance in dealing with When I first joined the World in Hot Pot stakeholders. My proposition is to Bank I had to learn a new language— Broccoli Stuffed Bean Curd with build on experience and draw on related to human development. It was Sweet and Sour Pork Shrimp individuals that we already know, and euphemistically called ‘Bankeeze’. Seafood with Bean Curd in Seafood with Chinese broccoli include others that we will soon come Fortunately I was able to write in the Hot Pot Fried Sea Bass Fish to know, so that we can promote the manner required by the Bank and its Salt and Pepper Squid House Fried Rice development and use of ‘English as a clients and, those writing skills account Fried Sea Bass Fish Special Fried Noodles for much of my success at the Bank. It global working language (EGWL ). Steamed Rice $125.95 is particularly important to be able to This is different from English as a $63.95 Second Language (ESL) that currently incorporate input from various sources 6 Persons 10 Persons relegates participants to ‘second level’ and present a coherent report that the competence in the language of their Bank and its client can act upon. Also FREE DELIVERY early on at the Bank, I had the benefit career field. To communicate across Minimum order of $10 514-733-6029 cultures it is often necessary to learn, of attending a ‘Mission Leaders’ course that included a stated objective Delivery hours: 514-733-1067 or re-learn, to listen, to speak, to read, 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. and to write. Factors such as accent, to arrive at ‘a common language’ as For party menu, call Kenny body language and cultural mores can our working language, and I benefited 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

www.filipinostar.org November 2008 The North American Filipino Star 11 green) You are invited to 2 tbsp. flour 2 sliced tomatoes attend the annual 1 sliced onion students 3 cloves garlic, crushed salt to taste Christmas Party Philippine Cuisine 2 tbsp. cooking oil Gilmore International Instructions: Sauté garlic, onions and tomato in oil College (gisa). Add pork and cook until done. Bistek (Philippine style Add 2 cups water December 14, 2008 Beef Steak) and boil for 5 minutes. Add peppers Call 514-485-7861 and peas and cook for 5-10 minutes. Add flour, stirring occasionally. for more details

Hours: Mon.-Tues. Wed. 8 AM-5 PM Thursday -Friday 8 AM-6 PM Saturday 8 AM-5 PM Closed on Sundays. salt and pepper -- to taste

Instructions: Fill up your freezer for the winter season. Boil the chicken and pork in small Ingredients: amount of water. Cook till done. Picnic ham Remove chicken from bones and cut Pork loin Beef Approximately Blade steak (with bone) 2 pounds sirloin steak,cut into 1/4-inch into 1/2-inch cubes. Cut pork into 1/2- 15 lbs pieces inch cubes. Save broth meat was cooked in. Saute garlic and onion in 69 29 2 tablespoons lemin juice . lb .49 . 3 tablespoons soy sauce butter till onion is tender. Add meats to 2 3 lb 1 lb 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper pan. Add some broth and Accent and Front quarter of beef salt to taste bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a Half or Whole Boneless leg pork Approximately 200 lbs 1 cup thinly sliced onion rings simmer and add carrots. Cook for 5 of ham minutes then add celery and cabbage. Cut & Wrapped 1/4 cup cooking oil 09 1/2 cup water Cook for 5 minutes more or until . lb .99 vegetables are tender. Boil water for 1.35 2 3 lb Instructions: the vermicelli. Cook according to lb 1 litre of fresh Marinate the meat in lemon juice,soy package directions then add to Pork Spare Ribs blood with purchase sauce,pepper and salt for 3 hours or mixture in pan. Add more broth to Home smoked when available more. mixture if necessary and cook until meat 1/2pork heated through. Adjust seasonings to .99 Cook onion rings in oil until .79 2 lb Regular smoked transparent.Transfer to a serving taste. Other noodles may be used in 8 lb bacon dish,leaving the oil in the skillet.Add place of the vermicelli as long as it is Beef thin. 89 the meat to the skillet and cook over Fresh Belly short ribs . lb high heat,stirring often, until Pork Sarsiado 4 with skin 10 lbs & over tender.Transfer the meat to a serving ngredients: 49 1 lb. pork . lb dish.Add marinade and water to the .29 2 79 skillet,simmer for 10 minutes and pour 1/2 lb. peas 3 lb . lb over the meat and onion rings. 4 St.Chrysostome St. Remi St. Edouard

Pork Sarsiado Napierville Sherrington Chicken Apritada Fresh pork blood Barrington Fresh bacon 203 219 202 Lacolle Hemmingford Fresh liver Jackson Road Sortie Havelock Exit No.6 ngredients: Pork skin Canada Parc 219 Safari Class 15 1 pound chicken Available Covey Hill Road

1 pound pork -- fat removed Boucherie Viau Inc. 1 tablespoon butter or margarine U. S. A. Malone Champlain 1 clove garlic -- minced Moders 1/4 cup onion -- diced 83 Covey Hill, Hemmingford QC J0L 1H0 1 stalk celery -- sliced Tel.: (450) 247-2130 or (450) 247-3561 1/4 head cabbage -- chopped 1 each carrot -- peeled and chopped 8 ounces vermicelli Accent seasoning mix -- to taste 3 medium-sized bell peppers (2 red, 1

Reynaldo Balansi Commissioner for Oaths Commission No. 170 586 Affidavits, Will, Codicil S. Power of Attorney, Deed of Sales, Contract/Agreements, Travel Permit, Support & Consent, etc.

Tel.: 514-297-4365 - 514-738-7999 Fax: 514-738-3297 E-Mail: [email protected] Reynaldo Balansi 4089-A Kent Avenue Montreal, QC H3S 1N5

www.filipinostar.org 12 The North American Filipino Star November 2008 The North American Filipino Star PHOTO GALLERY

Cubs and Scouts busy making their parol under the supervision of the Philippine Elenita Belgica (at left) president of the Philippine Folk Art Society of Quebec, poses Folk Art Society of Quebe, Saturday, November 22, 2008, at Appleton Center. May with the parents, members, and the Laging Handa Scout Group after the parol making Virola, chairperson of the activity, is shown helping a Cub Scout. workshop, November 22, 2008.

Marivel and Martin Riendeau with their one- year old son, Emilien.

New Cubs, Scouts and adult volunteers were inducted into the Laging Handa Scouts Group , November 15, 2008. Souvenir photo taken after the investiture ceremony held at the Famas Building on Van Horne Avenue in Montreal. Happy grandparents are holding Emilien Riendeau for a souvenir photo during his first birthday, November 16.

(Foreground, from left) Leo Miranda, Remy Balmes, Marivel Riendeau. Second row: Nestor Miranda, Romeo Valenzuela (center in blue shirt) celebrated his birthday on November 22, 2008 Jr., Zenaida Kharroubi, Esmeralda Roldan, Maricel Fonacier, and Martin Riendeau. Photo taken at with his family and friends. Party was held at the Famas Building. the first birthday party of Emilien Riendeau in St. Remi, Quebec.

www.filipinostar.org November 2008 The North American Filipino Star 13

www.filipinostar.org 14 The North American Filipino Star November 2008 snack and find inspiration while doing motivation. Also do know as women so. My product is fresh and handmade we tend to be superheroes and it’s key to order. We use no preservatives and to step away and replenish self to step simple ingredients that taste back into the arena and be not only a incredible. Out packaging is high end, better mom but a smarter and focused clean and looks great on the shelf next business owner. to most anything. How do you see your business 5 years What was the most difficult from now? part of starting Fortunuts? How do you Our other focus is to expand describe your early days? our hotel/liability industry business. I The most difficult time of starting think that is where we can get the best Fortunuts was dealing with the Food bang for our buck. We think this is a Many of you have expressed I chat Nicole Simon, founder Aspect. I could not find a commercial huge growing market for our product an interest in starting your own home- of Fortunuts about her successful kitchen. There are million FDA laws and we have a handful of partners in based business. The following are gourmet nuts business and the that I never thought about when all of this industry who have demonstrated article of Inspiration from real-life challenges she faces. this nut stuff popped into my head. I the demand for this product in various people who have volunteered to tell a The walnuts have been your thought you could just cook in your areas within hospitality. little about themselves and their home- mother’s recipes. When did you start own kitchen “lol”. That was my first What lesson do you wish to share to based business experiences. thinking that the nuts can be a viable Aha! Moment. My early days were half entrepreneurs? As a child, Nicole Simon’s business. What was the specific living the “dream” creating something Firstly I think my not spending mom would make her special walnut instance that made you realize the in half “öh my goodness what have I so much time obsessed with what my recipe for friends during the holidays. business potential of the nuts? done”. When you do something like plan was actually a gift. I followed and I stated to think that the nuts this where it takes so much creativity, trusted my instinct and really created a would be viable business when I work you always have a ton going through product that is unique to me. ? at the Nordstrom. I would bring them your head. At times, you are not sure Surround yourself with the right in as a holiday gift and all my co where to draw the line to stop PEOPLE – it is #1 important thing.? workers would urges me to try sell exploring. For example, I decided on Keep you feet in the water as them in the stores “Gift Gallery Dept. what the logo looked like and then for to what is going on in your industry and we we’re sold out. In addition they days I would still be looking for the and the latest news on all areas of would start asking me for the “holiday right thing. I really had a hard time your business, research and more nuts” in October trying to focus without a regular research!? When did you officially launch structured day as I was used in the Keep it interesting, keep Fortunuts.com? How long was the corporate world. You really have to changing a bit, add flavors, tweak you preparation to launch the business schedule everything out. I would stay website to always appear to be fresh I launched Fortunuts.com up for hours doing research and more and on the front lines of what’s is Friends asked for their delectable about 6 months after selling at the research on similar products. I would going on trend. a walnut treats that making it and giving farmer’s market consistently and then get caught up on the minute it as a holiday gifts became the gaining a bit of a following customers. details and forget that I had a bigger mother-daughter tradition in their People would not want to wait to get picture to deal with. I truly went with From Page 10 Global Perspectives household. their nuts a whole week, or if they the flow of how things came to me. In In December 2002, Nicole was could not make it to the market etc… it retrospect, I would certainly have done he turned 60. When a Texan says he urged to find her way to make their took me 6 months of research to get it some better planning on building the wants to ‘visit’ with you he means by nuts more accessible to everyone. together. I wanted to make sure that I business rather than flying by the seat telephone and when an East Indian She sold her special walnuts—which have a perfect logo and package of my pants. says he is ‘fed-up’ he means that he she describes as a “little bit of sugar, a design that spoke about our product. How did you finance the has had plenty to eat; and when a hotel dab of salt and a whole lot of love.”— The photography was amateur at first business? What were the challenges clerk in England asks a lady guest if to the public at the Jean Talon Market, but once I got it up there, I was able to you faces during the financing stage? she would like to be ‘knocked up’ in the in Montreal. The nuts came in Chinese generate some income and hire a I only have one thing to say- morning he means would she like to be take-out boxes with fortunes product photography. VISA and my FAMILY!!! And of course awakened—that’s all. messages, and they were a huge What is the concept behind word of mouth. Things happened so However accents, and word success. Since this humble Fortunuts? How do you differentiate fast that I really had no choice. I did sounds are only part of the fun of beginning, Fortunuts has become a your nut products from others in the not ever have a business plan— learning to communicate across- successful gourmet food item, with market? although I’m not sure how many cultures. Body language is also assorted sizes, new unique packaging First and foremost we offer the people are successful just because important and must be learned. As far and made-to-order fortunes. Nicoles’s highest quality delicious healthy they had one. Everyone tried in every as learning on the job is concerned, Fortunuts now come in three varieties: tasting product on the market and at way to help us whether it was with their there are few examples to rival the Sweet & Salted Walnuts, Mesquite the same time giving customers a physical labor or money to invest. We Colombo Plan Staff College as a place Walnuts and Sweet and Salted savvy, unique and sophisticated gift have so many fans who have become to develop the ‘soft skills’ of Pecans. Today, Fortunuts is available idea. Not only packaging but a fortune supporters and angel investors. interpersonal relations demanded in an in up scales stores and at online as well. We also offer custom fortunes How are you balancing the Inter-governmental international fortunuts.com and in gourmet gift for the corporate, wedding and other demands of a successful business, learning institution. Mrs. Laraya baskets. special occasions. You can eat a great family and other interest? Its called captures so much of the obvious and breathing deeply. As a mom of two more of the subtleties involved in such toddlers I have to really break thing up an environment in the book already into bite size pieces. That has taken mentioned. On the matter of protocol some thing used to and still is a and proper respect in matters of struggle to this day. When September human relations she offers much hits – my life goes overdrive and insight. everything is “NUTS!” We really do “The CPSC staff members most of our business in 4th qtr since were drilled in the protocol of each of we are such a great unique item. I the member countries, especially if have learned to organize myself better they differed greatly from what was and to try to take on only what I can generally accepted etiquette of polite handle. In all honesty, I am not a role Philippine society. A familiarization model on balancing to take care of seminar was conducted at the College myself. I have to be forced to go and about each of the member countries get mani/pedi and do thing for myself. using materials generously provided Having two little boys has been very by the embassies. The staff learned to challenging and I am putting their bow from the waist with hands on the need as first (as most moms do). Its the side before the Japanese my friends and family who remind how Ambassador. They learned to bow with much people loved our product and their heads, hands clasped together that is always a nice injection of and thumbs placed against the lips, to the Thai Ambassador. They learned to www.filipinostar.org November 2008 The North American Filipino Star 15 bow from the shoulders with hands business and management (IBM) that hands clasped and placed against the can be used to help people enter of chest before ambassadors from expand their role in international countries of the Indian sub-continent organizations. In regard to reinventing CPSC ladies also learned not one’s self again & again, it is a sign of to offer their hand first to the gentleman the times. Some educational planners for a handshake or the shake hands believe that the generation now in with the representatives of the Iranian school in developed countries will Embassy. They likewise learned not to change jobs a dozed times and sit at table with the Moslem gentlemen, change careers five times. A feature of unless they were invited to do so my own ‘retro retirement’ is the fact (which was not often). Generally, they that I am still called on from time to learned with whom they could make time by former employers the Colombo small talk and not be rebuffed nor Plan Staff College and the World Bank ignored entirely. More importantly, they Group and this enhances my ability to learned by trial and error, what topics contribute to the development of GAIA were safe enough to talk about. They and its growing network, including learned that most of the time the Interns and experienced senior seeming snub was nothing personal. It members. was just that in their culture THAT was how things were done or not done.” Email [email protected] The College has also Web: www.ikes-world.com developed custom designed modular training programs in international a Impeachment complaint vs GMA junked

The House Committee on Justice said the complaint merely contained de Venecia said that what transpired possibility of a legal challenge at the today junked the fourth impeachment "recycled facts". this morning at the House of Supreme Court," he said. complaint filed by businessman Jose In an interview over ANC after the Representatives is "a temporary The elder De Venecia had "Joey" de Venecia III against President House votation, former House defeat for truth and justice." endorsed the impeachment complaint Arroyo. Speaker and Pangasinan Rep. Jose "Our legal scholars will tackle the filed by his son Jose III in San Voting 42-8, the committee ruled Francisco, California on Nov. 4. The that the complaint was "insufficient in original endorsers of the complaint substance." were Casino, Satur Ocampo, also of "I move that this committee Bayan Muna, and Liza Maza of resolve to dismiss the Jose de Gabriela. Venecia III impeachment complaint for The most recent impeachment being insufficient in substance," Rep. raps against the President was the Edcel Lagman said. fourth filed against her since 2005. Lagman also moved that the Under De Venecia’s leadership, the statement made by Bayan Muna Rep. House dismissed the impeachment Teddy Casino be removed from the complaints against Mrs. Arroyo in record. "I would like to remove from 2005, 2006 and 2007 for lack of merit. the record the statement of the This was during the time when he was honorable Casino that we are here still allied with Mrs. Arroyo. He fell like bulag (blind), pip (mute) and bingi from her good graces after his son's (deaf). That’s an insult to the revelations on the irregularities in the members of this committee. Those ZTE-National Broadband Network are unparliamentarily remarks," he deal and was eventually ousted as explained. House Speaker. Before the House voted to junk Philippine law allows only one the impeachment complaint, both impeachment bid each year against pro- and anti -impeachment groups the president. The younger De presented summaries of their stands Venecia's complaint was filed last Oct. on the issue. 13, or a full year after the last In favor of an impeachment impeachment complaint was junked. proceedings, House Minority leader Jose de Venecia J., a congressman and former Speaker of the House of The most recent complaint Ronaldo Zamora said it would give Representatives address the media after an impeachment hearing in Manila consolidated previous and new Mrs. Arroyo the chance to answer all November 26, 2008. A Philippine parliamentary committee dismissed an allegations of corruption and other allegation hurled against her. On the impeachment complaint against President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, almost certainly violations against Mrs. Arroyo as well other hand, Lagman, who spoke in ending the latest attempt to unseat her. as charges of misconduct in the behalf of the anti-impeachment group, controversial ZTE-NBN deal. a CAR - MINI VAN - 4 x 4 Save $1000 - $2000 - $3000

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www.filipinostar.org November 2008 16 The North American Filipino Star take actions that are favorable to the better societies.” greater majority of our people. Likewise, one of the With a network of support, we successful and longest-running Empowering enjoy a certain degree of Filipino businesses in Montreal is the “institutionalized protection” to be able Fiesta-Pilipino Boulangerie on Victoria, to more aggressively pursue our owned and managed by the people advocacy for social reforms with other entrepreneurs, Ed Vasquez and wife, sectors of society. This system can be Connie. It has been providing jobs to applied to all Filipino associations to Filipinos for so many years now. Ed is be part of one federation. Every very active in helping both in sports By Jerry O. Estrada individual Filipino association should and Filipino organizations. In fact, Ed choose from its officers or board of had just won the election as the new directors who would run as officers of President of the Alpha Phi Omega the federation. This way the federation (APO), Montreal, which was will be equally represented and conducted in November 8, 2008. Strengthening the organization managed by every association There are a handful of Filipino officers. entrepreneurs here in Montreal. These There was an international equal opportunity employers providing PATRONIZING OUR OWN unheralded business people are the cooperative forum conducted in South sufficient wages and benefits to their ENTERPRISE. backbone of our economy. The two Korea some time in 2004. Three coop employees. In fact the coop This column has been things they all have in common are a volunteer leaders stayed together in employees have a key advantage: reinforcing awareness of individuals in great idea and a burning desire to one training center room. They were being members themselves, they our community to patronize the succeed. from the Philippines, Seoul and receive dividends and refunds, thus, Filipino Coop on Van Horne. If this Some grocery stores of other Thailand. Before the forum started, giving them the opportunity to earn Filipino business endeavor will nationalities are always busy and full of they had a friendly talk, introduced more than regular workers. However, succeed, it will create jobs and make a Filipino customers, while our own each other by their names but never we oftentimes we think there will difference in peoples’ lives. Filipino cooperative store is not. Isn’t it time that we should patronize our own mentioned what country they came always be failures. Rather worse we We all understand that as a store like a serious business? We’ve from. always think we won’t succeed and consumer we want to buy all our got a plan, we’ve got our Filipino- They compared their own give up trying. In fact, we leave our needs from one store and that’s owned business, and we’ve got to coop assets and annual financial farms and barrios (villages) and seek normal to save time. But, could we visit reports (coop leaders usually do this wages outside our own country since have faith in it. Isn’t it time now to and try to shop even $10 a week at our nurture and strengthen our own when they meet.) The Filipino was capitalism has taught us not to employ own Filipino Coop? The members organization? a amazed how come their cooperatives ourselves but to find an employer. We should patronize it because even if the were bigger several folds in terms of don’t notice that we become more coop officers are equipped with Post Christmas Party services and in assets despite the wasteful than the rich people because knowledge, practical skills and All members of the Philippine coop movement started most of us give up trying. commitment to run the coop, without Filipino Solidarity ahead than the two countries. He then LEARNING FROM A FEDERATION any grassroots support, it will not asked – “Where did you learn (NETWORK). Cooperative are invited succeed. to join us in a potluck cooperativism?” The two replied and Let’s learn from the success of It’s worthwhile mentioning that supper on uttered, “Why don’t you go to the NATCCO (National Confederation of even the Cuisine de Manille Restaurant Philippines at The Southeast Asia Cooperatives), which is the largest owners (Rafael Dayo, Ricky & Dado Sunday, January 4, 2009 Rural Social Leadership Institute federation network in the Philippines Contaoe) on Victoria are buying some 5:00 P.M. (SEARSOLIN), one of the outreach today. Coop pioneers in the coop products to help it. The owners units of the Jesuit-run Xavier University Philippines formed it in 1977. These even said, “It’s good to patronize, not FAMAS Building located in Cagayan de Oro, and learn leaders believed in self-help, in the only one Filipino business enterprise, 4708 Van Horne cooperativism there!” idea that unless people do something but all Filipino businesses because (To be reserved) This story reminds me again to solve their own problems, their they create jobs for us. Likewise, if the that our neighbors in Asia learned so situation will not get any better. coop will succeed it will be our legacy Please call 514-733-8915 many things from us including Moreover, these leaders believed that to the next generation, and soon it will for more information agriculture technology. They learned to succeed, cooperatives have to be return back to the community and from the Philippines how to plant a driven, capitalized and patronized by Filipino organizations to help build seed and nurture it but now overtaken the members themselves rather than us, and worse, we even buy (import) depend on the government. They rice from them now. believed in membership responsibility. Cuisine de Manille This is true also to The Association of Asian Authentic Philippine cuisine organizations either economic or Confederation of Credit Unions social in purpose. We create a lot of (ACCU) and National Credit Union 5710 Victoria Avenue near Cote Ste. Catherine associations either in our country or Federation of Korea (NACUFOK) have Telephone: 514-344-3670 abroad. One of the intentions of these adjudged NATCCO as the 3rd biggest organizations is to uplift the lives of its federation network in Asia. NATCCO Pre-Christmas Regular Weekend Buffet members and that is a good cause. now has combined assets of (8 dishes - All you can eat) This applies also to cooperatives. We Php30billion with over 200 individual Buffet Special $10 including tax built one, hoping that this will help and cooperative as members all over the Sunday, Dec. 7, 2008 Saturdays & Sundays make its members’ life better, but Philippines with businesses like: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM some times we forget to continually funeral care, coop mart, housing, 12 dishes w/lechon 5:30-8:00 PM nurture it once it’s there. This is one of health insurance, trainings, money $10 tax included the reasons why poverty is still with us. transfer, coop accounting software, Weekdays: legal services, loans and many more. 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM Business Hours SOCIAL IMPACT. LINKAGES. Monday to Friday The social impact of the cooperative Nowadays, many businesses and 4:30 - 8:00 P.M. 12 NOON - 9 PM project is twofold: improvement of the organizations are linking together to Special Mami socio-economic conditions of the coop make them more viable, stronger and Crispy Pata toward their members and its effect on competitive. By linking together, we their families. can make our voices heard in Kilawin Successful coops generate government. We can prevail upon our additional employment and become political leaders to make decisions and

www.filipinostar.org November 2008 The North American Filipino Star 17 Support wanes for de castro Climate change may be causing disease Vice-president Noli de Castro is losing his advantage over other outbreaks in Philippines potential presidential candidates in the Philippines, according to a poll by Global warming may have symptoms and are spread through contributed to a recent spate of contaminated drinking water. Pulse Asia. 18 per cent of outbreaks of deadly diseases in the respondents would vote for de Castro Philippines, a senior minister said in next year’s elections, down four Thursday. points since July. "Clearly what was predicted about Former president Joseph Estrada the impact of global warming is already and Senate president Manuel Villar of happening," Health Secretary the Nacionalista Party (NP) are tied for Francisco Duque told reporters. second with 17 per cent, followed by "The temperature is increasing Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC) leading to more diseases. senator Francis Escudero with 15 per "There's going to be propensity for cent, and NPC senator Loren Legarda more cholera, dengue, typhoid and with 13 per cent. Support is lower for malaria," he warned. Afflicted children are placed on a table former police chief Panfilo Lacson of Duque added that the diseases are as patients wait at a hospital in Tagoloan the Genuine Opposition (GO), Liberal Vice-president Noli De Castro all "manageable" as long as people town in Misamis Oriental province, Party senator Mar Roxas, president of practise proper hygiene and sanitation located in the southern Philippines island Senate. Final results gave seven of the United Opposition (UNO) Jejomar and those afflicted are swiftly brought of Mindanao following a suspected the 12 upper house seats at stake to Binay, Fernando Bayani of the Lakas- to hospitals for immediate treatment. outbreak of cholera. At least two people GO candidates, followed by the pro- Christian Muslim Democrats, and The Philippine Red Cross have died and more than 1,500 are in government Team Unity (TU) with televangelist Eddie Villanueva. meanwhile confirmed Thursday that hospital following a suspected outbreak three, and two independents. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo took three people had died and 2,235 of cholera in the southern Philippines, On Nov. 20, de Castro over as president in January 2001, others had been treated in three towns health officials said. following Estrada’s resignation. commented on his chances, saying, in the southern province of Misamis Arroyo won a six-year term in the June "For me, I use surveys as inspiration Oriental for an outbreak of 2004 presidential election, garnering to work harder, especially now that we gastroenteritis. Doctor Eric Tayag, head of the 39.99 per cent of all cast ballots. De are facing these problems, not only The Philippine Health Department government's National Epidemiology Castro—running as Arroyo’s running climate change, [but] what’s bigger is had earlier said the outbreak was Centre, also confirmed that a typhoid mate, but not as part of a single the global financial crisis." believed to be cholera but the Red outbreak had hit Real town, northeast ticket—received 49.79 per cent of all The next election is tentatively Cross said tests showed it was of Manila, affecting 109 people. cast ballots in the vice-presidential scheduled for June 2010. Arroyo is gastroenteritis. However there have been no deaths election, defeating Legarda. ineligible for a consecutive term in Both illnesses have similar from typhoid so far. a In May 2007, voters in the office. a Foreigners hiring 10 locals to get Philippines renewed the House of Representatives and one-half of the permanent visa Foreign businessmen who hire shall actually employ at least 10 Philippines fiscal deficit soars in October more than 10 Filipinos are now allowed Filipinos in a lawful, sustainable to stay in the Philippines indefinitely, enterprise, trade, or industry," The Philippines posted a fiscal billion in October. according to a new government order according to the new rule. The deficit of P9.0 billion in October 2008, In the January to October period, aimed to boost domestic employment businessman's spouse and dependents the government Treasury Bureau said revenue collections expanded 8.5% to in global economic slowdown. or unmarried children below 18 years Tuesday. This compares with the P972.6 billion. Revenue collected by Philippine President Gloria old are also entitled to the indefinite smaller deficit of P1.5 billion recorded the Bureau of Internal Revenue Macapagal-Arroyo today signed into residing right, it said. in the same year ago period. The total amounted to P644.8 billion, while the law Executive Order (EO) 758, which Local media reports said the deficit in the ten months to October was revenue collected by the Bureau of will provide legal ground and number of unemployed Filipinos had P62.3 billion, while the deficit was lower Customs was P218.2 billion. Treasury mechanism for the Special Visa on reached 2.9 million by April this year. at P41.5 billion in the January to income came in at P53.1 billion, while Employment Generation (SVEG). At Amid the global financial turmoil, at October period of the previous year. other offices collected P56.47 billion in least 100,000 jobs are expected to be least 50,000 Filipino workers in the revenue. Expenditure in the period Revenue collections grew a solid generated in the wake of enactment of United States and other countries are increased 10.4% on an annual basis, to 10.7% annually to P92.6 billion in EO 758, immigration officials told local feared to lose their jobs and return P1034.9 billion. Stripped of interest October. The Bureau of Internal media. home, where the economy is seriously Revenue collected P56.9 billion, while payments, expenditures climbed The special visa will be granted to a affected but still under control, analysts the Bureau of Customs accounted for 12.4%, to P782.6 billion, while interest "qualified, non-immigrant foreigner who say. a P25 billion in collections. Expenditures payments grew 4.6% to 274.7 billion. In soared 19.3% to P101.6 billion. The the ten months to October, the Primary Cebu Pacific looking to grow its business Primary surplus, measured by netting surplus dipped 4.9% to P190.0 billion. a out interest payments came in at P8.6 despite downturn Workers remittances rise despite crisis Philippines' leading budget carrier, Cebu Pacific is still confident that it will Cebu Pacific, is looking to grow its be able to expand its passenger base business amid the global economic from five to seven million passengers by The millions of Filipino workers demand for Filipino skills, and the slowdown. Profits this year have shrunk the end of 2008. abroad sent home $12.3 billion in the greater availability of expanded money considerably, but the airline is still It recently launched its 15th first nine months of this year, a 17.1 transfer services. optimistic. international destination to Osaka, increase despite a global slowdown Nearly 10% of the country's 90 The carrier lost about US$37.5 Japan, making Cebu Pacific the only that economists warned Monday (17 million people work overseas. The million from January to September this low cost carrier in ASEAN to serve the Nov) may bite the local economy in money they send home is equivalent to year. That was a huge turnaround from major North Asia markets of Japan, 2009. about 10% of the country's gross the US$50.6 million profit it made in the China, and South Korea. domestic product. Remittances _ a key contributor to same period last year. The Philippines tourism sector also the Philippine economy _ reached $1.3 A research head at PCCI Securites Lance Gokongwei, president and remains bullish about hitting the five billion in September alone, 16.9% Inc., James Lago, warned that the CEO, Cebu Pacific, said: "Our revenues million mark in tourist arrivals by 2010. higher than a year earlier, the central 2009 outlook remains bleak because continue to grow very strongly over Joseph Ace Durano, Tourism bank reported. overseas workers may return home thirty per cent. The number of Secretary, said: "Even with the global Central bank Gov. Amando from crisis-affected countries. passengers we carry still continues to financial crisis, people with money will Tetangco said the continuous stream Remittances last year totaled grow very strongly." still travel. Leisure travel is already a of remittances remains a source of $14.45 billion, and the government That is why the budget carrier is not lifestyle need. So it's just a matter of strength for the economy during the projected 2008 remittances to hit $15.7 giving up on its expansion plans. making sure that they come to a ongoing global financial crisis. He billion. Despite the global economic downturn, Philippines." a attributed the rise to strong overseas www.filipinostar.org November 2008 18 The North American Filipino Star leading international school that pays designer pythons. I’m also very hands- homage to Chinese language and on when it comes to taking care of FILIPINO STAR traditions. This gave birth to the first them,” she says. So hands-on in fact CISM campus which opened in Fort that she’d personally go to the market Bonifacio in August 2007. “It’s a dream to buy meat for their pets’ raw food S H O W B I Z G O S S I P come true. Our school is officially the diet. Now that’s something you don’t first institution here in the Philippines to see from school owners, finance firm offer an internationally–recognized head honchos or socialites every day. curriculum in English and Chinese,” But of course, even being an Fely Atienza: Kim’s biggest tells Fely. The school also offers animal lover and wife to a self- scholarship grants and seminars for proclaimed wildlife ranger cannot curb catch students and teachers who want to Fely’s hunger for high-fashion. “I experience a different kind of top-of- always tell my husband ‘Honey, when the-line education. those designer pythons die, they’re Despite having her own school, reserved for me’,” says Fely, with an Fely still epitomizes the age-old adage animated glint in her eye. of education starting in a child’s home. So what does it take to be as good Her stern yet loving nature as a mother as Kuya Kim’s biggest catch? Well, if helps her raise her babies to become you take Fely’s word for it, you’d responsible children. “I’m a very strict probably think that there’s a surefire mom. My kids never whine even if they formula. “As a wife, I make sure that want something so bad,” Fely shares. Kim and I never take each other for For instance, she never bribes her granted. As a mother, it’s about raising children with gifts and rewards just to your kids in a way that’s upright,” she encourage them to do well in school, explains. Fely also makes sure that her or any other activity for that matter. life is a constant balance of pressure “They’d even finish my line whenever I and pleasure—always making time for say, ‘You only receive two gifts every leisurely activities such as having lunch year, one for Christmas, and one for out with friends, going to the salon, your birthday’,” proclaims Fely. and having romantic dinners for two. Aside from being a supportive wife, “I’m a very stark believer that every a strict mother, and a successful individual has to pursue her passions businesswoman, Fely also shares and do only the things that she’s Kim’s love for exotic pets, and nature. zealous about. That for me, is the “We have 18 mini-pinchers, two secret to being happy,” concludes kalaws, bearded dragons, and Fely. a Cherie Gil: difficult to have a long distance marriage From killer crocs to venomous hard time for all of us, especially Kim,” Cherie, Amanda. She’s shown as a snakes, there’s nothing too big or too she shares. Being a firm believer of young woman (Alessandra de Rossi) dangerous for everyone’s beloved pursuing one’s passions in life, Fely who had sad experiences with two Pinoy politician-turned-TV-personality, encouraged her husband to accept men, Miguel (Baron Geisler) and Delfin Kim Atienza. However, even all these defeat and start chasing the dreams he (Joross Gamboa). One of them could species combined cannot compare to left behind for politics. “When our be the father of her son Rigor (Paul Kuya Kim’s biggest catch—his wife. daughter was finally born, Kim and I Salas as a boy, Ryan A. as a man). Fely Hung-Atienza is the wind beneath named her Eleana, a symbolic name Later on, when Amanda becomes our favorite animal lover’s wings. The that means God has answered me,” Cherie, Miguel and Delfin are played two met in 2000, just as Fely was set to she explains. by John Regala and Jestoni Alarcon, fly for London to work as a director in respectively. top finance management firm Merrill Free from the clutches of politics, Kim Cherie sat at our table to have lunch and she admits she and violinist Lynch International. “We both began building his momentum with his Cherie Gil understood that it was over, until Kim passion for wildlife and fame. Kuya Kim husband Roni Rogoff have separated followed me to London two weeks soon became a household name, Cherie Gil is so slim she looks like after 14 years. They were married in later. Merrill Lynch soon offered me an thanks to his hosting stints in ABS much younger than her real age. She 1994. "I tried my best to be a dutiful opportunity here in the Philippines, CBN’s Umagang Kay Ganda, and turned 45 last June but looks more like wife and I lived with him wherever he and we were married before we knew Matang Lawin. Fely, who never really someone who’s only in her late 20s. was working, like New York and it,” narrates Fely, now 39. “Kim also liked politics in the first place, was very She usually plays glamorous Venice," she says. "He also tried to live has his own ‘version’ of how he did it,” happy with her husband’s newfound contravida (Remember her as Lavinia here in Manila for a while, but we have she jokingly adds. career. “It was a very welcome change Arguelles in "Bituing Walang Ningning" drifted apart and we were moving into Seven years and three kids later for me. But I do worry that he gets and as the ice queen villain in different directions since I can’t leave (Jose, Eleana, and Emmanuelle), Fely bitten sometimes,” she adds. "Lastikman"?), but she’s now totally my work here as an actress. It’s hard to admits that their whirlwind courtship deglamorized as Amanda, the grieving have a long-distance marriage. There’s was just the start of one heck of a ride. Their newfound space gave Fely more mother of a wayward son (Ryan no third party involved. We parted “I married into a political clan and Kim time to ponder on things that she has Agoncillo) who gives her so many amicably. Our children, Bianca (12) has always been slated to run for to do, not only as a wife, but also as a heartaches in the remake of Carlo J. and Raphael (10) are currently staying office. During the early part of our mother. “My eldest son just turned two Caparas’ "Pieta." with him in Israel where they study in marriage, our house was always full of and I started to think about his "Making ‘Pieta’ is meaningful for an American school. I can visit them guests, strangers, and innumerable education,” she says. Being of me as I’m doing the role originally anytime I wish to and they can also sachets of 3-in-1 coffee,” she shares. Chinese descent, Fely wondered why played by Tita Chato (the late Charito come here as they please. My son, Then pregnant with their second child, there weren’t any internationally Solis)," she says. "She was my mentor Jamie (21), is with me here. May Fely also had the privilege and burden accredited schools in the Philippines when I was starting in showbiz in such kumukuha sa kanya sa showbiz but he of accompanying Kim to never-ending that offered dual immersion in both films as ‘Beerhouse’ and ‘Sugar doesn’t like it. He’s more inclined to campaign activities (yes, including English and Chinese. Never settling for Daddy.’ I really learned so much from music." wakes) when he ran for Congress in less, she soon ventured in one of her her. I’m also happy to be doing another Cherie says their petition for 2004. biggest projects to date — creating an novel of Direk Carlo Caparas as it’s divorce has been officially granted by However, constantly ideal school for her children. also in a novel of his, ‘God, Save Me,’ the courts abroad last August. It will be accommodating thousands of people that I won a best supporting actress recalled that Cherie and Roni had a on a daily basis were child’s play In 2001, Fely became the president award when he turned it into a movie." harrowing experience when they were compared to the most challenging task and founding member of Chinese Since "Pieta" is now a teleserye, caught by the killer tsunami in she was yet to face at that time. “To International School Manila (CISM) directors Toto Natividad and Don December, 2006 in Thailand, which everyone’s surprise, Kim lost out on Foundation, a fund-raising entity that Cuaresma expanded it and gave a they mercifully survived with their kids. his congressional bid. It was a very envisions the establishment of a back story to the character played by a www.filipinostar.org November 2008 The North American Filipino Star 19 Oprah ‘managing’ Charice going on between them. I'm not affected though about the issue For those of you who do not know between Sam and Peachy (Ruffa's pet it yet, Charice is the 16-year-old runner- name) because I know it isn't true," up of Sam Concepcion in ABS-CBN’s Erik said. singing search "Little Big Star." So is he jealous about the Charice become internationally rumored romance? known after she guested in the show of "It's OK. Sam is single and Peachy Ellen Degeneres. Then, Oprah invited is single. There's no problem if she's Charice to grace her show. linked to someone. It's all part of Very recently and obviously due to showbiz. If someone gets linked to Oprah’s influence, Charice was able to you, there's nothing wrong with that. sing a duet with her idol, Celine Dion – No hurt feelings," he said. yes, the Celine Dion – at a show held in Santos said that he and Quinto New York. remain friends and that he is in no In any case, that Charice has Erik Santos with ex-girlfriend Ruffa Mae hurry to get into another relationship. Oprah for her talent manager was Quinto a accidentally discovered by Gelo Serrano, the owner of the advertising agency Infinite Ideas with Icel Argana. Beautiful ‘boy’ Gelo, who is also a promoter for shows items, like her favorite Wonder abroad, wanted to get Charice for a performance in the US. Woman T-shirt and Marilyn Monroe So Gelo approached an executive lunch box. “I’ve always felt that, of Star Records, the recording firm in in some way, I’m like Wonder Woman. Charice & Oprah the Philippines with which Charice is I’m not physically strong like her, but people say I amaze them with my Do you know that outside the connected. He was told that for any ability to juggle various Philippines, it is Oprah – yes, the negotiation regarding Charice’s commitments,” Iza explained. Oprah Winfrey, the popular presence and performances outside international TV host and said to be the the Philippines, the person to talk to is “Monroe symbolizes beauty, richest among her TV peers – who is Oprah. femininity and sexuality.” managing the international career of Star Records is a sister firm of My favorite doll is called Shy Violet, after one of the characters of Charice Pempengo? ABS-CBN and Star Cinema. a the animated TV series “Rainbow Brite.” I once had a doll exactly like Echo, Anne Curtis confort each her that my parents gave me one Christmas when they were still other together. For some reason, tumatak Echo and Anne admit they are still sa utak ko ’yun ... I have a picture hurting. Echo is still reeling from the opening the gift. I don’t remember loss of Heart Evangelista, who broke Iza Calzado & her favorite doll what happened to that doll. But when up with him through e-mail. Believe it or not, the svelte and I told the story to my fan group, He relates: "Naka-kabigla din kasi. gorgeous Iza Calzado once wished Izadoration, they gave me this. They I was in Malaysia for the taping of she were a boy. bought it on eBay. My fans give me ‘Kahit Isang Saglit’ (his teleserye with “When I was younger, I was things that are really special. Malaysian actress Carmen Soo) when I chubby and lacked confidence. I I sleep with Leo, my stuffed lion got her e-mail. didn’t appreciate my being a girl. Only everyday. I love hugging him— "I didn’t know why it happened. recently did I started enjoying it,” the malambot kasi. He’s always on my Nang umalis ako, there was nothing actress told Living Stars. bed. He’s my guardian when I sleep. wrong between us. a Now she’s very much into girly "Until now, Heart and I haven’t talked. I must admit I have yet to move on." Angel Locsin and Sam Milby to do a Anne, for her part, revealed that it “Lovers in Paris” remake was Sam Milby, with whom she went steady for three-and-a-half years, who for the movie “Land Down Under” with initiated their break-up. And when she co-star actor Piolo Pascual, Anne Curtis remembers it, she admits that she Angel Locsin will again be busy cannot help but cry. with another new ABS-CBN project for Jericho Rosales and Anne Curtis She must love him that much, we the year 2009. Angel will be teaming doubt if a feeling other than friend ship told her. up with Sam Milby for a Philippine will develop between them, even if they "Ganun nga siguro," she said. Remake of the Korean tv series both admit that they have never felt "Kaya, for those who think na “Lovers in Paris.” Angel will be playing closer until they were paired in a puwede kaming ma-in-love ni Echo the role of Vivian (or Jodi) while movie. before we wrapped up work on ‘Baler,’ hopefully, Sam Milby plays the role of Echo (Jericho’s pet name) and will they please give us a break," she the rich and snobbish businessman Anne are together in "Baler," the Metro continued. Carlo (or Tristan). This will excite a lot Manila Film Festival entry of Viva Films. "I have to thank Echo for being of fans although the ABS-CBN The film, directed by Mark Meily, also around when I sorely needed a management has yet to release the stars Phillip Salvador, Michael de shoulder to cry on. Pero, ganun din final casting of the upcoming television Mesa, Joel Torre, Bernard Palanca, ako sa kanya. Dinadamayan ko siya series.It was in Maalaala Mo Kaya Leo Martinez, Baron Geisler, Ryan when he feels low." a episode in 2007 where Angel Locsin Eigenmann, Jao Mapa and Rio Locsin. and Sam Milby first teamed up and their chemistry thrilled a lot of viewers Erik Santos OK with Sam Milby-Ruffa ever since. So the television series is really a very good news. After My Girl, Mae rumors “Lovers in Paris” is only the second Pinoy pop artist Erik Santos's matinee idol Sam Milby. koreanovela to be localized by ABS- relationship with Ruffa Mae Quinto "First of all, I don't believe the CBN a may be over but that doesn't stop the rumors because I know Ruffa Angel Locsin is not going to have a More Showbiz Gossip - SEE PAGE 20 singer from giving his opinion about personally and I know Sam as a restful vacation all along. After her Ruffa's rumored romance with friend. I don't think there's anything busy scheduled shooting in Bukidnon www.filipinostar.org November 2008 20 The North American Filipino Star text her about the game, saying against SOP. Showbiz Gossip Continued from p.19 "sayang, sana nanalo kayo." With celebrities getting excited Back to Richard, he takes note of with the game as well, Richard hopes Richard Gutierrez concentrates Rufa Mae's excitement and comments: that more people will tune in to watch "Ang saya nga." He listens as she talks them every weeknight. a muna sa environmental advocacy about trying to convince her Bubble Force Nature last night, November 25. Gang castmates to join the game He added, "Full Force Nature, ang kaibahan nito is you really feel the Charice shines at Macy's wrath of nature and mga hindi natin nae-experience dito, mga puwede ring Thanksgiving Parade in New York mangyari sa atin dito, makikita mo sa Aside from Charice, international TV kung ano talaga ang singers James Taylor, Miley Cyrus and nararamdaman ng mga taon nakaka- Rick Astley also performed. experience no'n. So, 'yon pa lang, In a previous interview, Charice entertaining and exciting na for the and her mom Racquel Pempengco audience. At the same time, it cuts to told abs-cbnNEWS.com in a pre- me giving ideas and pointers on how departure interview that she will meet we can avoid these matters." "Hannah Montana" star Miley Cyrus and American Idol runner-up David Richard Gutierrez Greenpeace advocate Archuleta while in the US. She said she is excited to be After Codename: Asero, Richard The young Gutierrez said that it introduced to the young American Gutierrez is taking a very short break was really his idea to help groups that actress-singer, whom she described as from making television serials. supports environmental causes such Charice one of her inspirations. However, while on vacation from as GreenPeace. International young diva Charice "Gusto kong makita si Miley Cyrus acting, the young actor will be busy "'Yon ang naging calling ko, e," he once again made her country proud as kasi hinahangaan siya ng mga hosting GMA-7's newest program on said. "I mean, for me, maraming she performed for Macy's kabataan sa States," Charice said. "Bilib Ka Ba Nights" block, Full Force different problems na nangyayari sa Thanksgiving Parade in New York City Charice is currently in the US to Nature, which will premiere on mundo—number one is hunger, on Thursday, November 27. promote the latest album of her December 2 after GMA Telebabad. number two is overpopulation, number Before her performance, Charice, handler, David Foster. The program immediately three is global warming. For me, global on top of the "Good Housekeeping" Charice has a track in Foster's appealed to the young actor when the warming ang napili ko dahil talagang float, was introduced by NBC's host as album, "Hitman: David Foster & network presented to him the idea of ever since I was a kid I love nature. "The Internet Phenom from the Friends," along with music icons the show. Although its original version Siguro, I just had a calling for it. Siguro Philippines." Kenny G., Michael Buble, Josh in the United States shows original kanya-kanya tayong purpose dito sa The NBC had exclusive broadcast Groban, Brian McKnight, Katharine video clips of unbelievable weather mundo and siguro 'yon ang purpose rights for the parade. McPhee, Andrea Bocelli and Dion. moments, the Philippine version ko." Charice, meanwhile, wowed the Charice's performance in the changes it a bit by choosing Richard, As a celebrity spokesperson, crowed as she sang "Because You Thanksgiving Day parade in New York an advocate of environment, as the Richard said that he helps the group Love Me", as proof of her admiration followed her highly-acclaimed day on host. with its non-violent moves in saving the for her music idol, international the popular "Good Morning America" As a Greenpeace celebrity environment. One example of this is performer Celine Dion. show. a spokeperson, the 24-year-old actor will creating informative videos that will now have a wider venue to fulfill his reach a lot of people around the A new Cristine Reyes in 'Eva Fonda' role of spreading awareness about country, like his past documentary problems and issues concerning the Signos. She said she worked hard and environment. In between the video Within the next few weeks, Richard waited for so long for the series to be clips that will be shown, Richard will will go to Boracay to shoot a video for aired and finally, the "Eva Fonda" film give simple but very helpful tips in the tourists who visit the place. Then, remake will start airing December 1 saving mother earth. by next year, GMA-7 will be doing (Monday). The young actor said that Full another documentary similar to The actress admitted that she's Force Nature will definitely show the Signos. pressured of how will the Kapamilya other side of Richard Gutierrez. He reiterated, "Ang goal ko talaga viewers will react to her acting and of "I'm an active environmentalist and is to create awareness sa youth, sa the fact that she is finally leading in a I wanna help also the group of kabataan. So we're gonna go to soap, but with the help of her family, Greenpeace and the other different schools, that's one of my supporters and friends she said she environmental groups. I think this is my projects next year. Signos was can overcome everything. calling, to create awareness for the something informative. Signos, by the "Siyempre nandoon ang pressure people regarding global warming and way, is now out on DVD. Hopefully, pero as long as nandiyan 'yong prayer other environmental problem," said schools can watch that." a at suporta ng mga kaibigan at mahal Richard during the presscon of Full sa buhay makakaya 'yan," she said. Game for anything Reyes said she felt humbled with the previous plan that the soap will be he was quick to check the score. part of the afternoon shows, but she "I looked at the survey posted was caught by surprise when she was doon sa [may] elevator," the host told that "Eva Fonda" will be aired on shares, pertaining to the television primetime. ratings that are posted at the GMA "Noong nalaman ko sa afternon lobby. And he says he is not Christine Reyes okay siya sa akin pero noong binalita disappointed with the ratings that his From sexy to heavy drama. This is sa akin na primetime na nga mas newest show delivered. "Not bad for a what's sexy actress Christine Reyes is natuwa ako kasi makakapanood 'yong start!" excited about her "liberating" role in mga nagtatrabaho sa mall pag-uwi But he adds, "I hope it would get ABS-CBN's upcoming TV series "Eva nila. So I'm happy na marami ang better in the coming days." Fonda." makakapanood ng Eva Fonda," The host is definitely having fun "Heavy drama. Super thak you sa explains Reyes. with his newest gig, and he’s not the nakaka-appreciate ng gawa namin The original version of TV series only one. Rufa Mae Quinto, a pinghirapan namin ang Eva Fonda (Eva Fonda, 16) was released in 1976 contestant in the show's second hindi lang siya sexy at ipapakita ko by Sampaguita Pictures. It was the it's no secret that Richard Gomez episode, chimes in, "Actually sasali ka dito ang acting ko so ponoporin niyo movie that launched the career of then has been longing to host a game show na lang sa saya, hindi [para] manalo ang Eva Fonda," Reyes said. upcoming star Alma Moreno. for a while now. So when the first day ng prize." Reyes said she is overwhelmed Eva Fonda is one of the films that ratings came out for his debut as the And she adds that during the and honored to be given a chance to sprang up the popularity of "bomba" newest Family Feud host, he says that episode, even her grandmother would prove her talent in acting. films in the country. a www.filipinostar.org November 2008 The North American Filipino Star 21 daughter of singer Zsa Zsa Padilla, took a chance with people that I Karylle admits difficulty in however, opted to be more pragmatic worked with. So, sabi ko, ang hirap maintaining friendship with ex-BF with the suggestion by saying, "Well, mag-invite pero I'll try and ended up... as of the moment, I don't think that's We were about 70 volunteers in Time of a global audience. really possible, sadly." Zone and we had a lot of fun," she "It's a very big honor for me to do Building a solid friendship, of narrated eagerly. this," said Karylle. "Number one, course, would take time and there's a It was evident that Karylle would siyempre I'm so proud na nakilala ko si proper time for it to happen as what rather discuss the special event and its Manny Pacquiao. Alam mo na she enthused: "Someday we will be meaning than focus solely on nakakausap mo siya, na tinatanong friends and it will all work out." Dingdong's presence during the niya ako nagpi-prepare ba ako, ‘yong Incidentally, the two former lovers occasion. She's definitely coping and mga ganung bagay, ipinagmamalaki were together a few hours before feeling optimistic as she now moves to ko ‘yan sa mga kaibigan ko. I'm very Karylle graced the Awit Awards ABS-CBN. honored that he picked me." ceremony. "Sometimes things happen, but it's Making the event even more Dingdong and Karylle personally really more of the way you look at special for the singer is the fact that attended a charity activity organized things," Karylle reasoned out. "And you the sport means so much to her and by the Kapuso Foundation for cancer know, the blessings have been flowing her family. Karylle's grandfather, Carlos patients. in tremendously. There are two new Padilla Jr., was a ring referee whose "It was very, very moving. We had endorsements on the way and they'll career took off enormously after a lot of guests that turned up. Actually be out soon and a new record officiating the $20-million world kasi, Wednesday ngayon so a lot of contract. a heavyweight championship match my friends, they couldn't make it so I between legendary boxers Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier. The Willie Revillame’s Corinthian home mammoth boxing event dubbed as the Thrilla in Manila was hosted by the got robbed Philippines and was held at the Singer Karylle with ex-beau Dingdong Araneta Coliseum on October 1, 1975. expensive watch is gone together with Dantes "This is something that connects his other personal belongings. Though he did not mention the total With only a few days left before me with my grandfather. ‘Yong great amount of what was lost, we assume she takes center stage at Manny grandfather ko naman, isa siyang that it’s a big amount considering that Pacquiao's anticipated boxing bout Olympic boxer. So, kahit papaano, I his vault was also open. against Oscar de la Joya at the MGM may not be on the ring like them or Willie find it very disappointing Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada on referee, but I'm gonna be there to that despite of his home’s value being December 7, singer-actress Karylle is sing," Karylle fondly said. busy wrapping up pending it located in a gated subdivision, it is commitments here in the country. Feeling much better still not safe for a homeowner like him. Last night, November 26, Karylle It’s very hard to point fingers at this time according to Willie but he’s attended the 21st Awit Awards held at It is no secret that Karylle still Willie Revillane the Eastwood Central Plaza in Libis, nurses a broken heart following the wondering how the robber would have Quezon City, to participate in the collapse of her relationship with actor TV host-comedian Willie known where his keys to the vault are tribute number given to this year's Dingdong Dantes. Karylle cited the Revillame’s home in Corinthian Hills in hidden. Dangal ng Musikang Pilipino Award upcoming boxing match as a big help Quezon City was robbed last During this morning’s interview recipient, Lea Salonga. in diverting her attention away from Saturday, November 1, 2008. The host with “Umagang Kay Ganda,” the Minutes before the performance, whatever emotional concern she's at that time was on vacation in SOCO [Scene of the Crime Karylle excitedly talked about her currently experiencing. Tagaytay and went directly to Subic Operatives] were at the scene to thoughts on the upcoming Pacquiao- Dingdong has been very vocal in afterwards and just found out the investigate the said robbery incident. a Dela Joya match, where she will sing expressing his desire to maintain a incident early this morning at 3 am. the Philippine National Anthem in front good friendship with Karylle. The According to the actor, his very The North American Filipino Star Classified Ads ADVERTISING DRIVING PERSONAL TECHNICIAN Cheapest way to advertise! Heading Licensed driving instructor + 1 line = $10. addiitional lines $2 with many-years A 40-year old gentleman, tall, 5’11” Having computer problems? per line. 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As for her hobbies, The hospital where her husband the pretty lass cited swimming, was being treated declined to singing, and playing the piano as comment on his condition. some of the activities she enjoys Senior Filipino officials at first said doing. the president's husband, who had Before going to Macau to heart surgery last year, had suffered a compete, a send-off party was heart attack in mid-air, but Puno made organized exclusively for Patricia at no mention of cardiac problems. the Mandarin Suites at Gateway Mall He "had experienced stomach in Cubao, Quezon City where she cramps and back pain during the asked everyone to pray for her. flight of the Philippine delegation During the occasion, Patricia bound for the APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) summit," brandished her piano-playing skills Puno said. before the guests while singing "This was the same thing the first kundiman tunes. gentleman experienced before he She's also adept in speaking Philippines President Gloria Arroyo flew was rushed to (a Manila hospital) in "I feel very fulfilled that I made it to the Mandarin and Niponggo, and had to a summit in Peru as scheduled early 2008, that's why doctors on semi-finals, and it wouldn't be possible Saturday after her husband fell ill en months of extensive training at the board decided to do an emergency without the prayers of my countrymen. I route, forcing an emergency landing in Dale Carnegie Training—the landing in Japan so that First already feel so blessed, and having the celebrated UK-based personal and Japan chance to represent the country is Gentleman Mike could be given management development institute. special medical attention." already a victory in itself," said Bb. Philippines President Gloria Curiously, Patricia's interest in Puno earlier said "the president's Pilipinas-International 2008 Patricia Arroyo flew to a summit in Peru as beauty pageants only intensified entourage will continue its flight but Fernandez in a statement following her scheduled Saturday after her after she wrote a thesis on the husband fell ill en route, forcing an First Gentleman Mike Arroyo will stint in the pageant held last November subject. "It opened my eyes to this emergency landing in Japan, officials remain in Japan for further analysis 8 at Venetian Hotel in Macau, China. industry. Now I really want to get the said. from his personal doctors who were Despite failing to clinch the chance to represent the country," Jose Miguel Arroyo, 62, "is now sent to Japan to see his condition." 2008 Miss International Pageant title, she revealed during an interview stable and okay" after the He said Arroyo's husband would Patricia Fernandez of the Philippines conducted by the Bb. Pilipinas unscheduled landing at Osaka's fly back to Manila as soon as his still managed to make her committee. Kansai International Airport shortly doctors clear him for travel. countrymen proud after making it to Patricia made known her after midnight, Interior Secretary Arroyo is on her way to a two-day the semi-finals of the beauty intention to become a teacher Ronaldo Puno told reporters. APEC summit in Peru that begins on pageant. The recently concluded someday by pursuing inter-cultural In Japan, airport authorities said Saturday a event was staged last November 8 at communication studies. "I think the Venetian Hotel in Macau, China. communication plays a big role in Patricia was joined in the semi- bridging the inter-cultural gap. If only Citigroup to expand in the Philippines final round by other representatives we would be able to resolve this, While American financial giant workforce to weather the lingering coming from Japan, Ecuador, people will be able to understand Citigroup is streamlining across the global financial market turbulence. Lebanon, Turkey, Venezuela, Puerto each other better," she stated in her profile. globe, it expects to create about 1,000 Jones said the bank obviously Rico, Poland, Colombia, Czech new jobs and triple its workforce in the could not keep all of its existing staff in The Philippines has produced Republic, Spain and China. Philippines next year, picking the the Philippines, where the bank was four winners in the Miss International Alejandra Andreu of Spain country as a regional hub for business investing heavily in systems and pageant since its inception in 1960: bagged the coveted crown while process outsourcing (BPO). processes to make operations more Miss Colombia, Maria Cristina Diaz- Gemma Cruz-Araneta (1964), Aurora "Citi is repositioning in Asia-Pacific efficient. Granados Dangond emerged as first Pijuan (1970), Melanie Marquez but we remain focused on growth. As "Inevitably, if you go through runner-up. (1979), and Precious Lara Quigaman we review our operations and where change as we upgrade our systems, (2005). a we can be more efficient, something as systems get automated, that Beauty and brains which we have been doing even happens," he said when asked about before the downtrend in the global potential lay-offs. financial markets, we in the But overall, he said the bank Philippines are optimistic that instead would hire more people in the of reducing head count, we will be Philippines as Citigroup's global growing," Citibank country business restructuring would require the manager Mark Jones said. expansion of regional BPO hubs. Jones said Citibank had a staff of "We are repositioning globally, about 500 in the country and would doing what we have to do now that the likely hire an additional 1,000 in the markets are not functioning normally," coming year as part of plans to build Jones said. processing centers and expand its Asked about the bank's outlook domestic banking business. for next year, he said: "It's going to be "We expect the Philippines to be a a tough year globally. In the Personal - Professional preferred location for regional hubs or Philippines, it doesn't feel it's safe yet center of excellence because of but we're certainly preparing for it." Salon May Bo superior skilled workers and attractive "We haven't really seen it impact Walking distance from Cote Vertu Metro labor costs," Jones said. the consumer but we're preparing for 820 Decarie Suite 3 "From call centers to financial it," he added. Telephone: 514-883-8856 reporting and service centers, there's Wall Street was filled with 514-747-2291 a whole lot of activity moving to the speculation on Friday that the New Philippines," he said. York-based Citigroup may now Citigroup announced in New York consider selling part or all of its shares last week plans to cut more than to hurdle the global financial turmoil. 50,000 jobs or about 14 percent of its a

www.filipinostar.org November 2008 The North American Filipino Star 23 'This one's for history,' Pacquiao says of fight vs de la Hoya more than special to me. People will never forget who Manny Pacquiao is 50 years down the line and my name will be mentioned among the greatest," said Pacquiao as he rounded up an exhausting day of training on Wednesday at the Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles. While Pacquiao has already etched his name among the sport's elite with wins over the likes of future Hall of Famers Eric Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera and Juan Manuel Marquez, defeating de la Hoya is an altogether different level. The Golden Boy is one of boxing's larger-than-life personalities, with an Olympic gold and 10 world titles in six weight divisions tucked under his belt. He is acknowledged as the king of pay- per-view boxing and one of the world's most recognizable names and faces. Pacquiao, however, is fast catching up to de la Hoya's stature. With Pacquiao becoming the darling of boxing aficionados and fans alike, the Dream Match appears to be a symbolic passing of the torch from the "Golden" reign to the era of the Pacman. The moment isn't lost on Pacquiao. "This is so much different than anything I've ever done, face, seen and DON'T UNDERSTIMATE ME ... four-weight world champ Pacquiao has warned De La Hoya fought before," the reigning world But Manny Pacquiao values one Hoya. "It's definitely a huge honor to be lightweight champion said. "This is important thing that will endure the test He will secure his place in boxing able to be inside the same ring as easily the biggest of my boxing career, of time once he beats Oscar de la history. Oscar de la Hoya. If I beat him, it'll be of my life." a

www.filipinostar.org The North American Filipino Star November 2008 24 Education raises the bar but lowers the barriers to a rewarding career.

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P.A.B. students (standing behind) from left: Adelia Lascano, Melanie Bangit, Salvacion Battad, Leilani Galsim, Concepcion Dupali, Joyce Liwaliw and Milet Daquioag with their teachers (from left) Clarice Mackay. and Nina Schiff, and Director-General, Zenaida Kharroubi. Another teacher, not in photo is Amy Manon-og. The students have just completed their theory courses and are ready to do their practicum at St. Margaret CHSLD Residence starting on November 30. Seminars: • Writers Helping Writers • Intercultural Communication • Leadership Training • Human Resources Development (on request) Tutorials: • English • French •Math/Science (Private or semi-private)

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