Filipinos in Montreal celebrate 116th Philippine Independence Canadian image and help everyone to Montreal TV which will include some be successful in their adopted country, economic benefits to be outlined in the Canada. flyers to be distributed. A survey of In order to promote Mabuhay viewership will also be included. To Montreal TV, all members of the crew show our appreciation for everyone’s will participate actively in the actual participation, there will be some raffles broadcast of everything going on in with prizes to be given away. the park, starting with the parade in the Mark on your calendar - June streets, the parade of colors, folk 22, 2014 at MacKenzie King Park - a dances from different ethnic groups, day of meeting friends and enjoying the Holy Mass usually celebrated by fellowship and camaraderie that can the Filipino Catholic Mission, sports, unite our community. games, contests of some sort that may be spontaneously organized. The TV By Zenaida Kharroubi crew and other volunteers will also be offering membership in Mabuhay Will the Stanley come back to Montreal after more than 20 years? By the time this paper has been they must win two more consecutive distributed to our readers, the games to get ino the finals. Photo Past Independence Day celebration at MacKenzie King Park - James de la Paz, president of the Council Canadiens’ fate will have been known belowi shows the passion of some of Canadian Filipino Associations, usually organizes a parade, community picnic and other activities. as they are trailing the Rangers and Montreal hockey fans. The annual celebration of Productions, a company that started Philippine Independence is usually held last August 2013 and had its first close to the exact day of June 12th as it broadcast via a specialized ethnic was on June 12, 1898 when Filipinos television company called ICI won their independence from Spain. (International Channel/Canal Interna- Rain or shine, festivities are held at tional) and can be seen on Videotron MacKenzie King Park which start with a Channel 616 HD, Bell Fibe Channel parade around 11:30 a.m., followed by 1216 HD, as well as non-cable Channel various cultural and sports activities. 47. Every Friday at 7 p.m. Mabuhay This year, Philippine Indepen- Montreal TV brings to the Montreal dence Day will be celebrated on June community and suburbs a variety of 22, 2014 at the same location. As subjects that are of relevance to usual, a big crowd will converge in the Filipino-Canadians. Community events, park . Tents are rented or allocated to interviews of local talents and different associations and local celebrities, political leaders, businesses, in particular, Filipino owned professionals, businesses that provide restaurants will serve popular food that merchandise and services to the most people like even non-Filipinos community are coverd in the weekly who have developed a taste for exotic episodes. Special events such as the or Asian food. latest fund raising for the Yolanda For the first time, this victims in the Philippines were also Independence Day will be more included in its weekly programming.It is memorable as it will be covered by a the goal of this community television Fans celebrate the series win by the Habs outside the Bell Centre following Game community television crew of Filcan TV company to promote a positive Filipino- 7 on Wednesday May 14, 2014.Photograph by: Pierre Obendrauf, The Gazette 2 The North American Filipino Star May 2014 DEFICIENT INFRASTRUCTURE HURTS Featured Opinion ECONOMIC GROWTH, PRODUCTIVITY (A Commentary by Ralph Goodale, MP for Wascana ) Strategic alliances May 26, 2014 - It was during access. obviously to begin tapping oil and the 2011 federal election that Stephen May 29, 2014 (Global Balita) It was supposed to be fully natural gas in the area. Luckily, both Harper started pledging certain ON DISTANT SHORE functional by April 1st, but two months protagonists opted to use water expensive tax cuts that would later local communities are still not By Val G. Abelgas cannons instead of real cannons. overwhelmingly favour the wealthy. He called it "income-splitting" permitted to file their applications, with With China increasingly Earlier, Vietnamese fishing vessels and it sounded politically attractive. the 2014 construction season slipping aggressive in asserting its territorial collided with a Chinese frigate that was But what he didn't reveal was that only by. Some high priority municipal claims over most of the South China, it part of the convoy towing the oilrig. a small fraction of Canadians would projects have been excluded from is inevitable that its smaller neighbors In 1974, the Chinese took qualify -- 85% of all families (i.e., most eligibility, and there are other new would form strategic defense alliances control of the Paracels, which are well of those at middle and lower income limitations on how local governments to protect themselves from the region’s within the 200-mile economic zone of Vietnam, after a brief battle that resulted levels) would get little or nothing from can use BCF dollars. in the death of 54 Vietnamese troops. Mr. Harper's scheme. Shinzo Abe and Aquino Perhaps most problematic, That was the problem that provincial governments and others caused the late Jim Flaherty to openly "government entities" are now in direct question both the cost and the fairness competition with municipalities for of income-splitting. whatever lesser amounts of money eventually become available under the And there was another BCF. Mr. Harper refuses to provide a problem too. According to Mr. Harper, clear commitment on what share of bully. before income-splitting could be that funding local municipalities can The Philippine government was implemented, the big new deficit that expect. right in seeking strategic alliances with he himself created had to be Japan, Vietnam and, of course, the eliminated by 2015. There's not a Cutting and complicating United States. After forging a defense credible economist in this country who federal support for public infrastructure accord with Japan, the Philippines agreed with that artificial deadline -- is not good public policy. signed last week a roadmap towards a Shinzo Abe and Aquino only Mr. Harper, and entirely for his strategic defense partnership with The Chinese have also been own election campaign purposes. At a time when Canada's Vietnam, China’s former ally. slowly occupying islands claimed by the economic growth rate is just barely Philippines that are well within the Nguyen Tan Dung and Aquino Here again, Mr. Flaherty tried mediocre -- trailing as many as 140 country’s 200-mile economic zone. In to give himself some wiggle room, other countries -- with unemployment 1993, the Chinese started occupying talking about a balanced budget "in the stubbornly stuck close to 7% and Panganiban or Mischief Reef and last medium term", meaning 2015 or 16 or youth joblessness twice that high, Mr. year began occupying Panatag or 17. But Mr. Harper quickly and publicly Harper is impairing what his own Scarborough Shoal after a long insisted on the earlier deadline. And Finance department says is the most standoff. In May last year, the Chinese that set off a flurry of ill-conceived cuts cost-effective way to help drive more sent a fleet of fishing vessels, two large jobs and growth. civilian ships and a frigate to waters to front-line programs and services -- near the Ayungin Shoal. And early this search-and-rescue, food inspection, Moreover, Statistics Canada month, the Chinese were found to be immigration, trade, EI and veterans has produced a valuable analysis of reclaiming land and building an airstrip offices, emergency preparedness, the connection between infrastructure over the Mabini Reef, which is very close military procurement, community pastures, an historic tree farm ... the list and productivity. Nguyen Tan Dung and Aquino to Zambales. Despite repeated protests, goes on. The agreement presents the Over the past half-century, start of a united front against Chinese Chinese officials insisted that they have Among the most serious cuts about half of the productivity gains in incursions in the disputed isles in the the right to do anything in the disputed were those affecting community-based Canada's private sector can be South China Sea, almost 90% of which islands because they were rightfully theirs. public infrastructure across the attributed to investments in public is being claimed by the Chinese using infrastructure. Since the 1960's, our an ancient map dating back to the time It is increasingly obvious that country. While popular programs like China could not be deterred by protests the GST rebate to municipalities and best overall improvements in of the dynasties. productivity have been recorded Both the Philippines and and the filing of legal cases before the the sharing of federal gas tax revenues during those periods of greatest Vietnam are embroiled in escalating international courts in its bid to take -- initiated in previous Liberal budgets expansion in public infrastructure disputes with China over oil and marine control of the South China Sea, which is in 2004 and 05 -- were continued, the resources-rich areas in the South China critical to its goal of becoming a world government's flagship infrastructure . To get what he thinks will be Sea. superpower by 2025. investment (known as the "Building the political sizzle of a future tax cut for Vietnamese ships recently The 1.7 million square Canada Fund" (BCF)) was slashed by engaged in a battle of water cannons kilometers of the disputed South China 87%. the most wealthy, Stephen Harper is with Chinese coast guard vessels near apparently prepared to compromise the Paracel Islands when the Chinese To camouflage the impact of jobs, growth and productivity gains for See Page 23 Strategic Alliances pulled a gigantic oilrig to the area that cut, the Harper government has the vast majority of Canadians -- gone to extraordinary lengths to especially the middle-class. obscure the BCF and make it harder to

5320-A Queen Mary Road Tel.: 514-485-7861 Montreal, Quebec H3X 1T7 E-Mail: [email protected] Published by: Filcan Publications, Inc. Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Chief Editor & Publisher W.G. Quiambao Al Abdon Sam Kevin Community News Alberto Baens Santos News & Layout Editor Michael Davantes Bert Abiera Bernardo Sarmiento Columnists Founder Opinion Editorial

The opinions expressed by the writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect that of the management of the North American Filipino Star nor its editors. www.filipinostar.org May 2014 The North American Filipino Star 3

4th ANNUAL ALL-PARTY linkage between any nuclear agreement 7. Call upon Iran to cease and desist held accountable before the law, including PARLIAMENTARY IRAN with Iran and an improvement in the Iranian from its persistent and pervasive assault sanctions under section 4.1 of the Special on the rights of women, including also Economic Measures Act (SEMA) for their ACCOUNTABILITY WEEK regime’s atrocious human rights record by ensuring that violations of human rights are cruel and inhuman treatment and role in violating the human rights of the (2014) / SEMAINE DE punishment. Iranian people. RESPONSABILISATION DE raised by the Government of Canada in all bilateral and international fora. L’IRAN PARLEMENTAIRE 8. Call upon Iran to cease and desist 10. Canada must continue to lead the (2014) 3. Sound the alarm on the from its assault on the fundamental annual resolution at the UN General systematic and widespread assaults by the freedoms of religion, speech, press, Assembly that “names and shames” Iran COTLER RELEASES A 10- Iranian regime on the human rights of the assembly, and association, including its for its terrible human rights record, and POINT ACTION PLAN FOR Iranian people constitutive of crimes persecution and prosecution of Iran’s work with likeminded countries, GOVERNMENTS, against humanity. largest religious minority – the Baha’i particularly those in the global south, to community – the criminalization of dissent, require Iran to permit the UN Special PARLIAMENTARIANS 4. Advance the Global Iranian and the shuttering of media outlets. Rapporteur on the situation of human Political Prisoner Advocacy Project rights in Iran to visit the country and AND CIVIL SOCIETY LEADERS whereby Canadian Parliamentarians, in 9. Support targeted sanctions communicate freely with the Iranian concert with their colleagues abroad, against the major Iranian human rights people, including its political prisoners Irwin Cotler, co-sponsor of Iran “adopt” Iranian political prisoners and violators responsible for the ordering of, and dissidents. Accountability Week, says Action Plan, engage in sustained public advocacy on and complicity in, the wanton executions “Holds Iran human rights violator regime to their behalf. Indeed, two of the prisoners and massive assaults on human rights, account . . . and stands in solidarity with whose cases we took up last year – Nasrin and put them on notice that they will be Iranian people”. Sotoudeh and Hamid Ghassemi-Shall – have since been freed. Political prisoners A-PLUS AUTO CARROSERIE Parliament concludes Iran Accountability who escape Iran have consistently said Week today, the centerpiece of which was that international attention to their case the Global Iranian Political Prisoner was their best protection. The participation Advocacy Project, which pairs of Canada’s parliamentarians in the Global Parliamentarians with “adopted” political Advocacy Project can literally mean the Mechanic & Body Shop prisoners on whose behalf they advocate. difference between life and death for many This year, Parliamentarians heard from Iranian activists behind bars. experts on Iran, NGO representatives, and human rights advocates who testified 5. Mobilize Bar Associations, law before the Foreign Affairs Subcommittee schools, and NGOs in support of the call to on International Human Rights and release Iranian political prisoners, and to participated in a roundtable discussion. call on the Iranian regime to cease and Based on the witness testimony presented desist from its arrest and imprisonment of during the Week – and the ongoing work of lawyers and human rights defenders for no the Subcommittee – the following action other reason than their defense of victims 6338 St-Jacques ouest plan has been developed as a framework of human rights violations. Tel.: 514-483-0202 for advocacy going forward. Montreal, QC H4B 1T6 Fax: 514-483-0098 6. Call upon Iran to cease and desist 1. Expose, unmask, and hold Iran from its state-orchestrated policy of accountable for its critical mass of wanton executions, where Iran has violations of human rights and in particular executed more persons per capita than ensure that the ongoing P5+1 nuclear any other country. Indeed, the regime’s negotiations with Iran will neither execution binge has intensified under overshadow nor sanitize the Iranian Rouhani’s “moderate” Presidency, with regime’s widespread and systematic more than 600 executions since he took violations of human rights. office in August 2013 and more than 250 in 2014 alone. 2. Establish the importance of issue Algonquin’s land protection camps forces Quebec to Agree to a Process to Protect Sensitive Zones from Logging: Next Step Implementation of Landmark Co- Russell Copeman Management/Revenue Sharing Agreements Maire de l’arrondissement CDN-NDG FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE buffer zones around sites of cultural and Borough Mayor of CDN-NDG Tuesday, December 17, 2013 ecological importance to the Algonquin Membre du comité exécutif Peoples. (Kitiganik, Algonquin Member of the Executive Committee Territory/December 17, 2013) – After community The Algonquins of Barriere Lake members of the Barriere Lake First Nation intend to ensure that in early 2014, the established a land protection camp to protest commitment made by Quebec’s Minister of Tel/Tél: 514-872-4863 clear-cut logging on sensitive areas of their land, Aboriginal Affairs, Elizabeth Larouche, is fulfilled Fax: 514-868-3327 Quebec’s Ministry of Natural Resources has to establish a negotiation table early in 2014 Courriél/E-Mail: [email protected] agreed to respect a previously negotiated with the active participation of all of the relevant process to harmonize forestry operations with Quebec departments involved in implementing the community’s traditional activities. Called the the outstanding 2006 Joint Recommendations “measures to harmonize” process it involves of Mr. John Ciaccia and Mr. Clifford Lincoln. field visits by Barriere Lake Algonquins to the The Ciaccia-Lincoln Joint proposed cut block areas and identification of Recommendations are the result of intensive buffer zones of various sizes to protect cultural negotiations between the Algonquins of Barriere sites and ecological areas. Lake and Quebec under a 1991 Barriere Lake The Quebec Ministry of Natural Trilateral Agreement and a related 1998 Resources had—without meaningfully Agreement, which includes Co-Management of I am pleased to extend to all Filipinos in consulting the Algonquins of Barriere Lake— the territory and Resource Revenue Sharing issued permits for the 2013-14 operating year to among other issues.The Algonquins have Resolute Forest Products and other large removed their Land Protection camp within the logging companies who have subsequently La Verendrye Wildlife Reserve at the Poigan Côte-des-Neiges--Notre Dame de Grace clear-cut vast tracts of the forest this past sector but are monitoring their territory to summer and fall, up to the end of November, stop any unauthorized logging from when the Algonquins stopped the unauthorized further damaging Algonquin cultural our greetings of Mabuhay during the logging, which has been taking place in sites and critical wildlife habitat while violation of signed Agreements with the First Nation. ensuring the agreed upon Measures to Resolute Forest Products and other Harmonize Process is completed for logging companies have already damaged the 2013-14 proposed logging sites. Celebration of many sensitive zones on the Barriere Lake -30- Trilateral Agreement Territory. For More Information Contact: This recent decision by Quebec’s Minister of Natural Resources to respect a Chief Casey Ratt Cell: (819) 441-8002 The 116th Philippine Independence Day. previously negotiated Forestry Protocol and Norman Matchewan, Councillor Cell: (819) related buffer zone prescriptions provides time 441-8006 for the Algonquins of Barriere Lake to conduct Tony Wawatie, Spokesperson Cell: (819) field visits to proposed logging sites scheduled 527-7343 for the 2013-14 operating year and identify www.filipinostar.org 4 The North American Filipino Star May 2014 Filipino community said Peps Villanueva, convenor of UK Pinoys Liberals set to unveil budget for Good Governance. leaders in Europe plan Villanueva recalls how only very has come for hard economic decisions. QUEBEC - Quebec Finance protests vs China few Filipinos attended protests in the past. Minister Carlos Leitao will present his first The Liberals have aimed to meet the "We’ve organized rallies in front of By Ryan Chua, ABS-CBN News ever provincial budget on June 4. previous Parti Quebecois government's the Chinese embassy but only a few would LONDON - Filipino community objective of a $1.75-billion deficit in 2014- take part," he said. "Hopefully, once they Leitao's office confirmed the date leaders are planning to hold demonstrations understand the issue well, it would be easy in front of Chinese embassies in major to mobilize them." capitals of Europe this summer to denounce He said that if the petition manages what they called China’s bullying of the to gather at least 100,000 signatures, Philippines in the two countries’ disputes over parliament would consider it. certain territories in the South China Sea. The United Kingdom and other The leaders hope to make this European countries have not taken sides on year’s demonstrations bigger and noisier the matter, but stressed the need for a rules- than those in previous years in response to based and peaceful resolution to the recent developments in the dispute, such as territorial disputes in the South China Sea, a the blocking by the Chinese Coast Guard of a major route for global trade. Philippine vessel bringing supplies to Alcantara believes holding a Ayungin Shoal last March. protest can help the Philippines make its "What we’d like is for people to demonstrate voice heard on the international stage against China’s bullying in all capitals of although it is a smaller and less powerful Europe. We would like it to happen because they’re at it again. They’re really bringing their country than China. big guns, not just to the Philippines but also "China is like some big Goliath to the neighbors," Gene Alcantara, chair of and the Philippines is a little puppy trying the European Network of Filipino Diaspora to bark at this giant. And they’re not (ENFID), said. budging. They’re doing what they feel they At a recent forum in the Philippine can get away with," he said. "So Pinoys, embassy here, Alcantara spoke of how particularly overseas, we need to get China’s "bullying" has affected Filipinos together so that we can have one major abroad emotionally. bark, maybe with a bite." The plans come on the heels of The Philippines has filed a 4,000- Quebec Liberal leader Philippe Couillard introduces three candidates, Martin Coiteux, recent protests abroad by the Vietnamese, Carlos Leitao and Jacques Daoust, left to right, Thursday, March 6, page document before the International whose country also has territorial disputes Tribunal of the Law of the Sea contesting in a news release today. with China over certain areas in the South China’s claims over almost the entire 15 and a balanced budget the following The rookie finance minister says China Sea. On May 18, for instance, South China Sea. Manila argues that year. the transitional budget will serve to Vietnamese people in London held a protest China’s so-called “nine-dash line” The Liberals were elected with a in front of the Chinese embassy in reaction to redress public finances while reviving the encroaches upon areas within its 200-mile strong majority on April 7, winning 70 of collisions between Vietnamese and Chinese economy. exclusive economic zone and continental ships near the Paracel Islands. Premier Philippe Couillard has the 125 seats in the legislature. The problem, however, is getting shelf as defined by the UN Convention of warned since taking power that the time (Canadian Press) Filipinos aware of and involved in the issue, the Law of the Sea. National Bank says healthier business conditions in Quebec should drive momentum Ross Marowits, The Canadian After the close of markets PressWed, 28 May 2014 Tuesday, Quebec's largest bank (TSX:NA) raised its dividend by two cents to 48 MONTREAL - National Bank of Canada cents per share and reported a second- says healthier business conditions and the quarter profit of $362 million or $1.01 per election of a majority Liberal government diluted share. in Quebec should help the bank maintain The results were down from a its momentum in the second half of the profit of $417 million or $1.20 per share in year. the second quarter of 2013 that included a Although its second-quarter rise in the fair value of restructured notes. results lagged its Toronto-based peers, However, excluding certain the bank conveyed an optimistic outlook items, National Bank said it earned $375 Wednesday citing a double-digit growth in million or $1.05 per share in its latest exports to the U.S. in the first three months quarter, up from $352 million or $1 per of the year. share a year earlier. Analysts had "With a majority government in expected a profit of $1.04 per share. Hon. Irwin Cotler, P.C, O.C./c.p., o.c. Quebec, better weather conditions in Revenues fell eight per cent député, M.P. Canada and the U.S., and our constant year-over-year to $1.276 billion from efforts related to (the) one-plan-one-bank $1.383 billion in the second quarter of Mont Royal / Mount Royal initiative, we are confident to see our 2013. business maintain momentum in the Barclays analyst John Aiken said Tél./Tel.: 514-283-0171 second half of fiscal 2014," CEO Louis the bank won't be viewed as positively as Vachon said during a conference call, a its peers even though it managed in the [email protected] day after releasing its results. quarter to overcome a sizable decline in www.irwincotler.ca Quebec elected a Liberal trading revenues through reasonably majority on April 7, as voters turfed the strong loan growth and the further Parti Quebecois minority government. expansion of its wealth management Premier Philippe Couillard's new segment. government is expected to unveil an "However, a modest decline in net interest Wishing you all a austerity budget next Wednesday margins and essentially flat provisions do designed to put the province on the path not compare well against the earnings of balancing the budget by 2015, while reported to date, despite National likely Happy 116th Philippine Independence Day also boosting economic growth. being one of the few banks to announce a Vachon recently told shareholders at the dividend increase this quarter," he wrote in bank's annual meeting in Calgary that a report. and Quebec's new Liberal government must Aiken expects National should be restore a "climate of trust"' to reverse two able to meet or beat the revenue and years of lagging confidence that has hurt earnings growth of other Canadian banks Happy Canada Day! the province's economic growth. because of its above average loan growth He said investor confidence in and growing wealthier management Quebec has taken a beating since 2012 franchise. Mabuhay ang mga Pilipino sa Montreal. from the investigation into the construction On the Toronto Stock Exchange, industry, student strikes, the debate on National's shares closed down $1.17 at mining royalties and the charter of values. $45.86 on Wednesday

www.filipinostar.org May 2014 The North American Filipino Star 5

that simple. Why? Well, for the most long and it will take longer to watch part, a woman’s wardrobe is basics than it will for you to accessorize. driven; it’s the accessorizing that changes up the looks. The more Reason #3 You Will Stand Out accessories you have (which are often Okay, so you’re sick of being cheaper in price than clothing and can just an another acceptably dressed be worn multiple times per week) are nobody, you feel blah and just another what change up your look. So, imagine face in the crowd. Well, hello, McFly, having one dress that you can why do you think that is? It’s your lack accessorize four different ways simply of accessorizing that is making it with a shoe change or different jewelry. happen. Imagine you and another This will cost you a lot less than having woman were standing side-by-side, multiple stand alone outfits that can’t both wearing a pair of tailored pants Why You Should Accessorize be changed up through your and a button down shirt. The one who To make your dishes taste gives the following reasons why you accessories. is going to stand out is going to be the their best, you need to add a bit of should accessorize: person who chooses an interesting spice or seasoning to it or it would Reason #2 You Will Save Time pair of shoes and finishes her look with taste bland. Same as your wardrobe. Reason #1 You Will Save Money If accessorizing is an a great necklace, some colorful jewelry Accessories are like the spice of your You may be wondering why additional step, how exactly will it save or a handbag that isn’t dull. If you want outfit. It adds more panache to your adding more to your shopping list will time, you’re wondering? Most of my to stand out, accessorize. When you ensemble and expresses your save you money. Here’s the reason: clients are busy women. When they accessorize, you can wear your individuality. The more accessories you own, the first start working with me, they groan versatile basics without being boring. Style expert Bridgette Raes less clothing you will have to buy, it’s at the idea of accessorizing, thinking they have enough to do in the Reason #4- You Will Save Angst morning. The string of pearls that they Frustrated with nothing to wear day in and day out may be boring wear? When you start purchasing them to tears but at least they don’t accessories a whole new world of have to think about it. Time is saved via possibilities will open up with the accessorizing because you can go for wardrobe you already own. When trusted and basic outfits that you know you’re frustrated with your wardrobe, work and use the accessories to don’t go and buy more clothes, buy change up the looks and make them accessories. more interesting. Accessories can give one piece in your wardrobe multiple Reason #5 You Will Feel Better About looks. This takes a lot less time than Yourself the time you spend staring at your Feeling good about yourself closet trying to figure how to put whole comes from within and, as ounter- new outfit together. Seriously, how long intuitive as it sounds, that good does it take to put a necklace over your feeling often comes when you know head, you look good. Want to feel better like .3 seconds? I am sure you can about yourself? Start working on your spare that much time. Have some outer appearance and how you easy, yet interesting accessories on present yourself to the world. When hand that are fail-safes and will always you know, confidently, that who you work. My suggestions are accessories are on the inside is being expressed, in green or yellow (both green and and people are getting who you yellow work with any color you’re are just by your presence, you’ll have wearing) and gold and silver in to overcompensate less and things will interesting shapes. If you can have at flow in your life much more smoothly. I least these in your arsenal of mean, don’t you have enough accessories, you’ll always have challenges in your day, how you look accessories on hand that work and shouldn’t be one of them. make an outfit. Time is saved and you look good. You can check out a video on how I put several looks together using one staple dress I own. It’s a bit

Welcoming a record number of visitors Canada Continuing Global Leadership in from the Philippines in 2013 Nutrition, Providing Humanitarian April 22, 2014—Ottawa, ON— Assistance Support to the World Food Today, Canada’s Citizenship and Programme Immigration Minister Chris Alexander announced that Canada issued more Nutrition key to delivering on security and ensuring access to than 47,000 visitor visas to Filipino Canada’s top development priority, nutritious food are at the heart of visitors in 2013. This figure represents saving the lives of women and poverty reduction, and is a a record high for the Philippines and a children across the developing world fundamental pillar of Canada’s 57 percent increase since 2006. maternal, newborn and child health May 28, 2014 – Toronto, Ontario - initiative,” said Minister Ambrose. In 2013, nearly 30,000 Filipino Foreign Affairs, Trade and “Mothers and children are often the citizens became permanent residents Development Canada most at risk during a crisis and have of Canada ranking the Philippines as Today, the Honourable Rona special food and nutrition needs. third in the top source countries for Ambrose, Minister of Health, along Canada will continue to work with the Hon. Chris Alexander, Citizenship & immigration to Canada. with Ertharin Cousin, Executive World Food Programme to help Immigration Minister Director of the United Nations World deliver concrete results for those in The government’s improve- benefit from the Multiple Entry Visa Food Programme (WFP), visited need.” ments to Canada’s immigration (MEV), which allows qualified visitors SickKids Hospital ahead of the Prime Following the visit, Minister system are helping to facilitate to come and go from Canada for six Minister’s Saving Every Woman, Every Ambrose announced on behalf of the legitimate tourism as well as months at a time for up to 10 years. Child: Within Arm’s Reach Summit. Honourable Christian Paradis, immigration of those from the MEVs are a fast, flexible and “Canada is proud to be a Minister of International Development Philippines to Canada, strengthening convenient option for frequent visitors global leader in supporting nutrition economic prosperity and growth to Canada. around the world. Increasing food See Page - Canada Continuing across our country. Visitors to Canada 6 The North American Filipino Star May 2014

in learning, memory and behavior. various stresses on farmland and Dear EarthTalk: I recently became “What needs to follow is especially on water consumption.” Miller vegetarian for ethical reasons, but I am whether these exposures are causing adds that organic methods can cause missing the taste of neurobehavioral changes,” Harvard significant leaking of nitrates from epidemiologist Joe Braun told composted manure—the fertilizer of meat. Are there any tasty veggie options Environmental Health News, adding that choice for most organic farms— into out there that can satisfy my desire for previous research has shown that groundwater, polluting drinking water. steak and chicken? estrogen receptors in the brains of rats He also cites research showing that were triggered by low doses of BPA. large-scale composting generates -- Missy Jenkins, Pittsburgh, PA “Hopefully [the FDA] will address that significant amounts of greenhouse Aside from its brutal treatment of down the road.” gases and “may also deposit pathogenic livestock animals, the meat industry is no bacteria on or in food crops, which has doubt one of the worst offenders when it led to more frequent occurrences of food comes to the environment. Producing one E - The Environmental Magazine poisoning in the U.S. and elsewhere.” kilogram of beef requires 150 square Dear EarthTalk: A recent study showed “If the scale of organic production were meters of land and 15,000 liters of water, that Bisphenol A (BPA) was hardly the significantly increased, says Miller, the most of which is used to grow feed for the human health risk researchers once lower yields would increase the pressure animal. That same kilogram generates 27 believed it to be. Should I still try to for the conversion of more land to kilograms of climate-altering carbon avoid products that may contain it? farming and more water for irrigation, dioxide, the equivalent of driving a car more -- Carolyn Danes, Waukesha, WI both of which are serious environmental than 100 miles. Indeed, beef has 13 times Some 93 percent of us carry issues.” He adds that conventional the carbon emissions of an equivalent amount of vegetable-based protein. traces of the synthetic compound farming’s embrace of GM crops—a no- Hungry mouths around the world Bisphenol A (BPA) in our no to organic farmers—is yet another take a hit, too: Some 70 percent of the grain bloodstreams, so it’s no wonder that BPA exposure has been linked to a host of way we can boost yields and feed more people with less land. produced in the U.S. is fed to livestock public health advocates are concerned human health issues, including cognitive and animals but the land used to grow it could about its potential effects. Developed in behavioral development in young children. But, the Washington, DC-based Organic Center takes issue with Miller’s feed some 800 million people instead. For the 1950s to strengthen plastics and These concerns have led the European this and other reasons many of us have allegations about nitrates polluting epoxy resins, BPA is today used in a Union, Canada—and more recently the given up meat altogether. But it doesn’t groundwater: “Most studies that wide range of products, including U.S.—to ban the use of BPA in baby bottles mean we don’t still crave the taste. many plastic food and drink and other items geared toward babies and examine nutrient runoff show that Fortunately, there are more containers, the lining of most cans, children. choices than ever for vegetarians with some paper products, and dental latent carnivorous instincts. One young More research is underway still. sealants. company, Beyond Meat, has millions of The February 2014 FDA study is part of But with widespread use of dollars in funding from high-tech BPA has come increased scrutiny an ongoing two-year assessment of the toxicity of BPA. Dozens of university heavyweights and has made a big regarding its potential impact on splash in recent months with the launch human health. When ingested, BPA studies are also in progress to shed more light on just how risky our use of of its first two meat alternative products, mimics naturally occurring human Beef-Free Crumblesand Chicken-Free hormones and thus can potentially BPA may be. Consumers should continue to take precautions to limit their Strips. Each of its products looks and interfere with the body’s endocrine and tastes like the meat it is emulating while reproductive workings. According to intake of BPA by avoiding polycarbonate plastic food and drink containers and offeringthe same protein content—but the nonprofit Breast Cancer Fund, Credit: CinCool, courtesy Flickr metal cans, and by refraining from without any saturated or trans fats or previous research has linked BPA Aside from its other benefits to our health and putting plastic items in the microwave— cholesterol, let alone gluten or exposure to with increased risk for environment, organic agriculture -- which genetically modified organisms cardiovascular disease, miscarriages, a process that can expedite the leaching eschews synthetic pesticides and fertilizers -- decreased birth weight at term, breast of BPA into food. can potentially reduce overall greenhouse gas (GMOs). In taste tests, most and prostate cancer, reproductive and CONTACTS: Breast Cancer emissions by 20 percent compared to consumers can’t tell which dishes sexual dysfunctions, altered immune Fund, www.breastcancerfund.org; U.S. conventional farming. contain actual beef or chicken versus system activity, metabolic problems Food & Drug Administration, Beyond Meat’s self-proclaimed “perfect and diabetes in adults, and cognitive www.fda.gov; Environmental Health organic production methods result in substitutes.” and behavioral development in young News,reduced nitrogen losses when The company reports that it children. These concerns have led the www.environmentalhealthnews.org. compared to conventional crop takes four-tenths of a pound of soy and European Union, Canada— and more EarthTalk® is written and edited by production,” reports the group. pea plants to make a pound of their recently the U.S.—to ban the use of Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss and is a The Organic Center also Chicken-Free Strips, versus three BPA in baby bottles and other items registered trademark of E - The disputes Miller’s claims about the pounds of grain-based feed to get a geared toward babies and children. Environmental Magazine organic farming’s carbon footprint, pound’s worth of meat from an actual (www.emagazine.com). Send questions Meanwhile, the U.S. Food & arging that overall energy usage and chicken. That all translates into many to: emagazine.com. Drug Administration (FDA) maintains greenhouse gas emissions are much fewer pesticides and carbon emissions that typical low-level BPA exposure less from organic farming than for and much less water used in the Dear EarthTalk: Do you agree conventional agriculture. The group also does not pose any health risk. A process. Beyond Meat’s investors with the recent claim in the Wall Street says that taking into account the February 2014 study by FDA include the leading Silicon Valley Journal that organic agriculture isn’t greenhouse gas emissions that come researchers found that low doses of venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins actually sustainable? -- Chuck from the production (not just the use) the compound did not affect the health Caufield Byers, Twitter co-founders Biz Romaniello, Pittsburgh, PA of synthetic fertilizer changes the of rats over a 90-day study period. Stone and Evan Williams’ Obvious Dr. Henry I. Miller’s May 15, equation entirely. The groupcites a While study rats exposed to higher Corporation,and even Bill Gates, who 2014 opinion piece in the Wall Street recent study by the UN Food and doses of BPA had lower body weights, has expressed his hope that the abnormal female reproductive Journal has indeed made waves in the Agriculture Organization which found company’s products can play a role in development and altered hormone organic farming community. Miller, that organic agriculture can potentially former director of the Office of levels, there were no such effects in reduce overall greenhouse gas switchingmore people in developing Biotechnology at the U.S. Food & Drug rats exposed to lower doses more akin emissions by 20 percent compared to countries over to plant-based proteins. Administration, argues that conventional to what humans experience. conventional farming. Of course, there are many farming—which uses synthetic But critics point out some Also, Miller’s statements about other meat alternatives out there, too. flaws in that study which call its pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers and conclusions into question. For one, a often genetically modified (GM) seed control group of rats that was stock to maximize yields—is actually supposed to remain unexposed to BPA better for the environment, producing somehow had levels of the compound more food and using less water DR. EMILIA ESPIRITU in their blood equivalent to the lowest- compared to organic farming. dose study population. FDA “Organic farming might work CHIRURGIEN DENTISTE / DENTAL researchers maintain that this well for certain local environments on a SURGEON contamination of the control group did small scale, but its farms produce far not affect their results because neither less food per unit of land and water than 5790 Cote des Neiges Rd Suite A-024 group of rats showed any effects given conventional ones,” says Miller. “The PHONE: 514-340-8222 (4077) their low-dose exposure. Another issue low yields of organic agriculture— MONTREAL, QUEBEC E-Mail: [email protected] is that the researchers did not look at typically 20 percent to 50 percent less H3S 1Y9 neurological effects such as changes than conventional agriculture—impose

www.filipinostar.org May 2014 The North American Filipino Star 7

newborn and child health. I am certain of the funding already disbursed. The World Food Programme – From Page 5 Canada Continuing that together, we will reach our goal of Related Products Official web site ‘Saving Every Woman, Every Child.’” Saving Every Woman, Every Child: and La Francophonie, $98 million in Backgrounder – Canada’s 2014 Within Arm’s Reach Summit – Official humanitarian assistance funding to the Improving the health of mothers, Humanitarian Assistance to WFP web site WFP, Canada’s largest humanitarian newborns and children is Canada’s Address by Minister of Health Rona To follow the Summit virtually, partner. The WFP is the United top development priority. Following Ambrose: Press Conference with Canadians can visit our development Nations’ frontline agency in the fight the significant progress made through Ertharin Cousin, Executive Director of Facebook and Twitter pages against hunger. 2010’s Muskoka Initiative, the Prime the United Nations World Food Canadians can show their support Minister is once again taking action to Programme to the #SavingLives initiative by The WFP responds to emergencies mobilize the world to maintain subscribing to our Thunderclap and saves lives by getting food to the maternal, newborn and child health as Associated Links campaign hungry quickly, while also working to a top development priority. On May 28 Canadians can also show support prevent hunger in the future; as such to 30, 2014, in Toronto, Canada is Minister Paradis announces by personalizing their own Twitter and they are ideally positioned to help hosting Saving Every Woman, Every additional humanitarian assistance to Facebook avatars using our Twibbon Canada deliver on its top development Child: Within Arm’s Reach, an the Central African Republic (March campaign priority, that of improving maternal, international Summit that will build on 27, 2014 News Release) newborn and child health. Improving Canada’s leadership and shape the Minister Paradis announces Contacts nutrition and ensuring access to future of global action on maternal and increased humanitarian assistance, Sandrine Perion nutritious food are key to Canada's child health issues. and food security and livelihood Press Secretary strategy to help lift millions of people Quick Facts support to South Sudan (April 1, 2014 Office of the Minister of International out of poverty around the world. News Release) Development and La Francophonie On April 28, 2014, the Prime Minister Priority Theme: Increasing Food 819-953-9528 “Children who get enough food are announced that Canada will host Security [email protected] less likely to get sick or die. They are Saving Every Woman, Every Child: more likely to stay in school, Within Arm’s Reach, an international Meatless Select Fishless Vegan From Page 6 Earthtalk contribute to their families and Summit on Maternal, Newborn and Tuna. Another classic option is any communities, and reach their full Child Health issues. number of meatless products from the potential,” said Minister Paradis. The Summit, to be held from May 28 A trip down the freezer aisle at Kellogg’s-owned Morningstar Farms, “Canada’s focus on maternal and to 30, 2014, in Toronto, will build on WholeFoods yields sightings of Amy’s which are widely available in mainstream grocery stores from coast- child health reflects the values of Canada’s leadership and bring Bistro Burgers, Gardenburgers, Boca to-coast and which account for some 60 millions of Canadians who believe that together Canadian and international Burgers, Gardein Ultimate Beefless Sliders and Beefless Tips, Dr. percent of the meatalternatives market in we cannot stand idly by while the leaders and experts, Canadian civil the U.S.With meat production expected Praeger’s Veggie Burgers and Sol poorest and most vulnerable suffer society, businesses, scientists, to double by 2050 as the world’s human deaths that are easily and developed and developing countries, Cuisine Meatless Chicken. population tops nine billion, inexpensively prevented. Canada will international organizations and global there has never been a better time to continue to partner with the World foundations to ensure that maternal, start curbing our enthusiasm for Food Programme, to deliver real newborn and child health remains a conventional steaks, hamburgers, results.” priority of the global development chicken breasts and sausages. agenda. CONTACTS: Beyond Meat, “On behalf of the millions of vulnerable In 2013, Canada was the WFP’s www.beyondmeat.com; people WFP reaches each year, third largest donor, contributing over VeganEssentials, Canadian government and taxpayer $370 million to its operations. www.veganessentials.com. support is immensely appreciated,” In 2013, the WFP provided food said WFP Executive Director Ertharin assistance to more than 80 million EarthTalk® is written and edited by Cousin. “The WFP enjoys a long and people in 75 of the world’s poorest Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss and is a productive partnership with the countries. registered trademark of E - There are more choices than ever for Government of Canada, working Canada is providing $2.85 billion in vegetarians with latent carnivorous instincts, towards achieving our mutual goal of The Environmental Magazine funding between 2010 and 2015 under from Kellogg's-owned Morningstar farms ending hunger. Eliminating hunger fits the Muskoka Initiative to save the lives (www.emagazine.com). Send questions products to offerings from Beyond Meat, a to: [email protected]. hand-in-glove with the Muskoka of women and children in developing new venture funded by heavyweights like Bill objective of reducing child mortality. countries. Gates and Twitter co-founders Biz Stone and We recognize and applaud Canada’s Canada is on track to meeting its Evan Williams. Pictured: Beyond Meat's global leadership in maternal, Muskoka commitment, with 80 percent Chicken-Free Strips "without the cluc” Feature your Meanwhile, the Meat business on Kalman Samuels, Q.C. Alternatives section of Mabuhay Montreal VeganEssentials.com offers up Upton’s Naturals’ Bacon Style Seitan TV & Associates, s.e.n.c. Strips, Sophie’s Kitchen Breaded Call 514-485-7861 Attorneys Vegan Fishless Sticks, Field Roast’s Classic Vegan Meatloaf, and even

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www.filipinostar.org 8 The North American Filipino Star May 2014 FFCAQ election marred by controversy Philippines when she filed her When Josefa was contacted by candidacy. the North American Filipino Star for an by W. G. Quiambao has to be a member of the Federation "During the assembly, Julie, interview, she gladly granted our request Two groups ran for various for two years before it can assign Angie, Fred and Pat never gave the mike and gave this statement: "The Comelec positions in the election of the delegates to vote. Josefa asked why to anybody. They monopolized the was fired because it didn't want to admit Federation of Filipino-Canadian these associations are being treated assembly. Dick Dahiroc was prevented some of the new associations and allow Associations of Quebec (FFCAQ), an differently. No, they're not treated from speaking because they knew he their delegates to vote. Why are these umbrella association. One group, differently. Like other associations, they was right. He knew what he was talking associations being treated differently? headed by Josefa "Eppang" Nicolas should abide by the rules of the about and he was neutral. Aquino was And if those associations are accepted who ran for presidency, held an election constitution. It's very obvious that these obviously upset because he was also to be members, why can't their last May 3 while her opponent, Ed new associations applied for never given a chance to talk. delegates be allowed to vote? Tupaz and his group, held its own membership so they can vote in favor of "The general assembly on "The new Comelec bought the election on May 25. The groups are Eppang's team. Could you imagine March 30 was scripted." argument of Grace that when an accusing each other of violations of the what's going to happen if there are no Ed , whose primary duties as individual comes to Canada and FFCAQ's constitution. regulations to follow? It will be a mess, a 1st vice president includes being eventually becomes an immigrant or Some of the issues published riot. " chairman of the General Assembly, was citizen, he is allowed to exercise his right in another newspaper are the following: In addition, Felix confided that prevented from presiding due to conflict to vote. 1. Firing of the Comelec by the general Julie sent him a letter declaring that he of interest said, "If it's conflict of interest, "Another issue I have is that assembly for violations of FFCAQ'S is no longer the president of the why did they appoint the new Comelec - when I was notified that my name was constitution. They were Dick Dahiroc, Federation. "Who is Julie to do that? In Julie, Marlene, Nida, Elvie, Juanito, taken out from he list of the candidates, Jimmy Aquino, Cesar Manuel, Felix his letter to Julie, Felix said, "This is to William and Grace? With the exception I wasn't even given a chance to respond Salazar and Lim Collao. The assembly advise you that you have no right and of Marlene now, these people are I was told Friday, February 28, the named the following new Comelec capacity to declare FFCQ Executive obviously known supporters of Josefa. election was Sunday, May 2. The members: Julie Parado, Marlene Birao, Board’s non-existence, especially my Besides, the constitution stipulates that constitution says protests should be Nida Quirapas, Elvie Balagot, Juanito position as the President. I'm still the a member of the Board of Trustees can't submitted within five days. And since Dagsaan, William Fabia and Grace Yip. president of this election since no legal serve as Comelec. So why was Julie, Felix took over as president two yeas 2. Allowing delegates of new member election was held yet. The president, in who is member of the Board of Trustees, ago, nothing has been done on the associations of the Federation. 3 consultation with the Executive Board appointed? Is it not a conflict of membership committee. So far, he is the Disqualifying Josefa for running must ask opinions from the Board of interest?" only member so how can it be called a because she is still the president of Trustees to iron the difference, if we Ed summed it up, ”We have committee? another organization. 4. Preventing have problems, but we didn't ask consulted a lawyer. After reading our “Canadian law says that in an Dick and Jimmy from speaking before anything. You virtually clamped your constitution and arguments, she said in election, if there are no opponents, the the assembly 5. Banning Ed from dominating rule with the purpose and her letter that the May 1 election is not rest of the candidates are declared presiding the assembly because of belief that we are incapacitated. At this valid. It's illegal. It's in violation of the winners.” conflict of interest time, you have no right to interfere with Federation's constitution, Quebec Civil If this controversy is an Felix Reyes, the incumbent the Executive Board's functions. " Code and Quebec Companies Act indication that the Federation, like a few president of the Federation explained On the other hand, Jesusa (LCQ). She made it clear that if the other associations, will be split into two, that the general assembly has no power Nicolas, internal vice presidential election is postponed or cancelled only time will tell. to fire and dissolve the Comelec and candidate of Ed, refused to accept the during the general assembly, the name new members. "The Comelec is excuses of Josefa Nicolas. "Originally, existing directors continue to exist. appointed by the Executive Board and Julie was endorsing Ed's candidacy for That's her legal opinion" it's the only body that can fire or dissolve president but for whatever reason, she the Comelec. The general assembly is switched to Josefa who was supposed for the election and ratification of the to run as auditor," she said. "Josefa constitution. was aware of the Federation's "Julie, Angie, Fred and Patria constitution that states that the derailed the election to fit their hidden candidate for president must not hold agenda by making motions after the same position of another motions. They fired the Comelec. The association. It's clear. Eppang claimed new Comelec is now chaired by Julie. that she has notified the Registrar des And instead of the Comelec having only entrprises du Quebec of her resignation five members, it now has seven. They as president of the Girl Scouts of the added two more members. They did the Philippines. That it would take a while whole thing by asking the voters to raise for the Registrar des enterprises du their hands. The voters claimed they are Quebec to update its file. She should eligible to vote. Actually, they're not. know that until the file is updated and Some of the them were not even the certificate proving her claim that her members of the Federation, and they resignation as president is released by didn't even know what was going on. the Registrar, she is still the president of They were brought in there to disrupt the club. We obtained a copy of the the assembly, which was controlled by certificate from the Registrar stating that four people - Julie, Angie, Fred and as of March 26, almost a month after the Patria. The whole thing was scripted by deadline for submission of candidacy; them. from the start. she was still the president of the club. "Another blatant violation is that the constitution stipulated that the "The argument of Josefa and her Board of Trustees and Executive supporters is that the Federation's Council can’t sit in the Comelec. Julie, constitution subscribes to the laws of Need Money? Angie, Marlene , and Grace are Canada. For example, Mario Dumont currently serving as members of the ran for the premiership of Quebec but Board of Trustees. he didn't resign as member of the “The problem with the new Quebec National Assembly," Jesusa associations is that their memberships said. "That argument is unacceptable. were applied only three to four hours It's us who did the constitution and it's before the deadline of submission of true that FFCAQ is governed by the • No Credit Checks! membership which was Feb. 28. They Quebec Civil Code (CCQ) and Quebec have tract records and registered with Companies Act. Our lawyer read our the Registraire des enterprises du constitution and she didn't see anything • No upfront fees! Quebec, as claimed by Eppang's that undermines the minimum norms supporters. But that doesn't mean they established by law. In other words, automatically become members of the there's nothing wrong with the provision • Immediate response! Federation and their delegates are of the FFCAQ constitution that the eligible to vote. Yes, the associations candidate must not be the president or can be members if they meet all the chairman of any other association. Call and Get Cash Now!!! requirements of the Federation but they There's nothing wrong if Eppang was can't send delegates to vote yet. The banned from running because she was (514) 344-1499 constitution states that an association still the head of the Girls Scout of the www.filipinostar.org May 2014 The North American Filipino Star 9 PERSONALITY OF THE MONTH Former FAMAS Bb. Pilipinas advocates for vulnerable children being exploited abroad by. W. G. Quiambao prevalence of child labour shocked me. I expected it to be hidden. I wasn't Reena Vohra has come a long expecting to see children in mechanic way - from winning the FAMAS Bb. shops welding or outdoors bricklaying. Pilipinas itle in 1997 to advocating for I met with hundreds of children and vulnerable children being exploited youth ranging in ages from 8-17 abroad. working in dirty, dangerous and Vohra has a Bachelor of degrading jobs. Many of these children Commerce Degree from Concordia never stepped a foot in classroom, and University and an MBA from the are forced to support their families. Schulich School of Business at York "Many of the children lack University. In between her studies, she education, but one company allowed Reena Vohra waves (4th lady from the right) among the children she visited. managed to travel the world and work. them to participate in night-school World Vision works with child labour. It calls on major Canadian She taught English in Tokyo to college program. Every day , after their shifts, employers to ensure the children clothing companies to sign the students and businessmen for a year they head off to school to receive a receive safety gears such as goggles Bangladesh Accord, which requires an d a half. In addition, she volunteered formal education. The children are and footwear "It's about harm rigid monitory of garment factory in Pattaya, a seaside town two hours working a full-time job and going to reduction," said Vohra. "In many cases, conditions, a commitment to complete south of Bangkok, Thailand on a school. They probably haven't eaten, there's no alternative for the kids necessary repairs and more robust women's empowerment project to they're exhausted, but they want to go except to work so making their compensation for injured workers. So support and rehabilitate women and to school. They say how happy they environment as safe as possible far, the only Canadian company to sign children working in the sex trade. are to have this opportunity because becomes a priority. " the Accord is Lablaw. For the last three years, she they know this is not available to most Vohra explained that she also "People don't realize how easy has been working at World Vision people." had the opportunity to visit Rana Plaza, it is to make a difference in a child's Canada, where she is a policy advisor According to Vohra, after the ruins of a factory where more than life," said Vohra. "We need to ask the for child protection. She advocates to completion of the school program, the 1,100 people lost their lives last April. "I right questions before we buy from our the Canadian government to support children receive a certificate . Some go met with victims' families and survivors. favourite brands, so we know that the legislation that will aid children being to technical school and many want to The survivors shared harrowing tales products we are buying are not made exploited abroad. Her experience with become engineers. Vohra also i of how they had to fight for survival at the expense of a child's health and World Vision has led her to visit the remembers stepping inside a factory amidst the collapsed debris and development. organization's projects in Tanzania, where fumes were overwhelming. wreckage. It was extremely emotional "Child labour is not only a Zambia, Burundi and South Sudan. "When I walked in, my eyes started to for many of them as the memories, problem in Bangladesh. While we don't She recently returned from Bangladesh water from the fumes and the even though the one year mark has like to think about it, we all know it where she spent several weeks chemicals. " passed, remain quite vivid." happens in the Philippines and in travelling from regions north to south to According to the International World Vision is currently countries all over the world. I urge you learn more about World Vision's work in Labour Organization, there are 126 promoting their campaign. Inspired in to visit our No Child for Sale website to helping to address child labour. million children working around the part by the 2013 Rana Piazza collapse, sign World Vision's petition so that we Vohra remembers her stay in world, more than half of them are in the campaign focuses on the can help end dirty, dangerous and Bangladesh. "In every shop I walked by dangerous industries such trade, retailer/consumer role in addressing degrading child labour." in every city, there was a child . The mining, agriculture and fishing.

A commentary by the Member That rapid expansion is no making are completely opaque. off. of Parliament for Wascana accident. So the Temporary Foreign But Canadians aren't laughing. After the Harper government Workers program has run amuck Our country needs an intelligently took power in 2006, they mangled the entirely on the Conservatives' watch. designed TFW program that is May 19th, 2014 competently run and consistent with our program's rules. More foreign workers The timing seems indefensible. values. at lower wages, putting downward The recession in 2008-09 triggered huge The program must be pressure on Canadian wage rates and job losses. Recovery is painfully slow. refocused onto its original purpose -- BUNGLED TFW even displacing Canadian employees, Overall economic growth through Mr. Harper's tenure is the worst on average filling jobs on a limited basis when no PROGRAM HURTS would be consistent with their right- Canadians can be found. At the same wing view of how a market economy since the 1930's. Unemployment remains EMPLOYERS, stubbornly high, especially among young time, we need to renew our commitment should function. EMPLOYEES ALIKE Canadians. And yet, the TFW program to seeking permanent immigrants who The figures also expose a continues to expand. will join us as new citizens, taxpayers For more than 30 years -- government bias in favour of The victims are not only and nation-builders. temporary foreign labour, instead of before the arrival of the Harper Canadian workers who get displaced or We need greater transparency more landed immigrants with a clear government -- Canada's Temporary have their wages depressed. This broken and disclosure around how applications pathway to becoming citizens and program also puts foreign workers in a Foreign Workers (TFW) program are made, what jobs are being offered taxpayers. There were nearly as many vulnerable position, at risk of exploitation. functioned successfully, fulfilling the and where, what real effort is going into TFWs admitted to Canada in 2012 as Those employers who genuinely need the search for Canadian employees, legitimate purpose for which it was there were new permanent residents, such a program find themselves unfairly and the basis upon which the intended. It enabled qualified and on that trend line, temporary painted with the same brush as those who government provides "Labour Market employers to bring small numbers of abuse it. And our common Canadian entries would actually exceed Opinions" to verify that TFWs are foreign workers into Canada on a commitment to diversity, inclusion and permanent residents by 2015. necessary. limited basis to fill certain jobs when accommodation is put under severe Program administration and Rather than mindless no Canadian employees could be pressure. oversight have been weak. The government spin, Canadian found. The government was warned government has no reliable data on employers, and workers both But in recent years, the about this growing mess long ago. Last labour market realities from one year, Liberals called for an urgent Canadian and foreign, need honest program has ballooned out of all locality to another. There is no clear parliamentary investigation to fix what was and conscientious solutions to these proportion -- from just over 140,000 system to monitor performance or so evidently wrong and getting worse. critical issues. workers in 2005 to nearly 340,000 in check for abuses. The application More recently, we've urged a complete 2012, and the figure is no doubt higher process and government decision- examination by the Auditor General. today. Typically, the Conservatives just laughed it www.filipinostar.org 10 The North American Filipino Star May 2014

vignetting. Longer lenses are better flare. Ask the protected by lens hoods than shorter Keep the lens clean. If your ones. lens is dusty, dirty or greasy it will be Lens hoods work by casting a more prone to flare. Anyone who has Video Guy shadow over the front element of the looked into the sun while wearing lens. Once you have bought a lens spectacles or sunglasses will hood you should keep it on the lens appreciate this. Your vision is clearer if by whenever you take photos. Even if you thelenses are clean. It’s the same for think your images are flare free, it may camera lenses. be that there is a small amount of flare Cleaning is easy. I use a that you don’t notice until you view the blower brush to remove dust and dirt, Al Abdon photo on your monitor. then lens tissues with a lens cleaning Lens hoods also have the solution to clean the element. Check How to avoid lens flare the range, are supplied with lens benefit of helping protect your lens your lens (and filters) regularly to hoods. For any other lens you will from accidental knocks and scratches make sure that they are clean. By Andrew Gibson need to buy one separately. The – another reason to keep them on your Shining a torch onto the front If direct sunlight (or light from instruction manual of your lens will tell lenses while using your camera. element is a good way to see if there is another source such as a street lamp) you which lens hood to buy. dust or grease otherwise invisible to hits the front element of your lens, you It is best to buy that particular Other ways to prevent flare the naked eye. will almost certainly get flare.There are lens hood if you can, or a third-party If the lens hood isn’t enough two types of flare. One is specular alternative that matches the shape and to keep the sun off your lens, there are Filters flare; circular blobs or streaks of light size of the recommended lens hood. other techniques you can use: The debate about filters is across the frame. These are often less expensive, If the camera is tripod ongoing and opinion seems to be The other is veiling flare, although they may not be made quite mounted, you can shade the front divided about whether they adversely where light creeps into the shadow as well. But for a lens hood build element with your hand or a piece of affect the quality of the image or not. I areas of your photo, reducing contrast quality doesn’t really matter, as its card during the exposure. Just make don’t think it makes much difference in the darkest tones and decreasing main task is to keep light off your lens. sure your hand doesn’t appear in the and use ultraviolet (UV) filters to sharpness and definition. This is more The above photo shows a Canon EF photo. protect all my lenses. I feel more subtle and not always as noticeable as 17-40mm zoom lens with the lens Stand in the shade when you comfortable knowing the filter is there specular flare. An example where you hood it comes supplied with. This take a photo, if possible. This prevents to protect the front element of the lens might see veiling flare is in a portrait shape hood is called a petal lens hood the light from the sun hitting the front from knocks or scratches. backlit by the sun. The opening photo and is common with wide-angle element of your lens. If you’re taking a I buy coated filters which help to this article contains veiling flare. lenses. The cut away corners are photo of someone backlit by the sun, reduce flare. They cost a little more but Quick tip: Using the auto- designed to prevent vignetting. and there is too much flare, try placing for me it’s worth it. I keep the filter levels or auto-contrast functions in This photo shows a metal them in the shade instead. If you also cases in my camera bag so that if I’m Photoshop helps compensate for lack third-party lens hood that I bought for stand in the shade when you take the in a situation where flare is an issue (if of contrast caused by veiling flare. photo, you won’t get flare. I’m shooting into the sun, for example) Use prime lenses. Prime I can remove the UV filter temporarily Avoiding flare lenses (if you have one) are less prone and store it. I can also remove the UV to flare than zooms. One reason for filter if I use a polarizing filter, to avoid Flare is caused by direct light hitting this is that they contain fewer internal having more than one filter attached to the front of the lens (this is called ‘non lens elements. One cause of flare is the lens at a time. image forming light’). This can happen light being dispersed inside the lens with any lens, but wide-angle lenses as it passes through the lens Al Abdon are more prone to this than longer elements. The fewer elements inside Hollywood Junkies Video & Photo focal lengths because of their greater the lens, the less likely you are to get angle-of-view. The easiest way to prevent flare is to make sure that there is no direct light shining on the lens. RESTAURANT LA MAISON NEW KUM MON There are several ways to do this: Buy a lens hood my 85mm prime lens. The field-of-view 6565 Côte-des-Neiges Road 5047 Henri Bourassa Est A lens hood is an essential of this lens is much narrower than the (near Corner Appleton) Montréal, QC H1G 2S1 accessory for any lens. 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www.filipinostar.org May 2014 The North American Filipino Star 11 Quebec teens who helped find security image and knew where she us their support and, three hours later, lived. we experienced the happiest moment of missing baby hailed as heroes “She was my neighbour… I our lives.” know her a little bit,” she said. Questions concerning the TORONTO – Four teenagers abductions The teens went to the house hospital’s security and how this in Quebec are being applauded for their Baby abduction Canada Baby where they believed the suspect lived. happened have been circling all day. detective work in helping police locate a taken from hospital found safe and The apartment in Trois-Rivieres where Serge Boulard, a spokesperson newborn who was snatched from a sound: Quebec police four teens discovered the woman who for St. Mary’s, told Global News, “It’s hospital in Trois-Rivières Monday night. Police issued an Amber alert allegedly took a newborn from the local easy to say afterward that it should be A woman dressed as a nurse and an image of the suspect caught on hospital on May 26, 2014. different, but we’re completely in a The apartment in Trois-Rivieres different mindset today.” where four teens discovered the woman “Hundreds of procedures take who allegedly took a newborn from the place in hospitals every day. It’s an open local hospital on May 26, 2014. environment because we welcome Barry Donelly/Global News people. The challenge for us will be to The red Toyota Yaris hatchback see how we can evolve our safety with a “Baby on Board” sign that police features without people losing their were looking for was parked out front. experience. This is the challenge for us.” They called the police, who While rare, this is not the first arrived within minutes. time a baby has been abducted from a “In two minutes they were in hospital in Canada. front of the apartment,” Plante At least eight other cases commented. across the country have been reported Police entered the apartment since 1991, with a similar incident in around 10 p.m. and came out with baby Sudbury, Ont. in October 2007. Victoria safe and sound. In that case a woman “It was amazing… the best pretending to be a nurse took a image in my life,” Mélisanne Bergeron newborn from the hospital while the says. mother was distracted. She travelled Charlène Plante and Mélisanne Bergeron discuss how they recognized the suspect, tracked The group is happy they were 300 kilometres to her home before her down and called police. able to help find Victoria in such a short police caught her and safely recovered allegedly entered Mélissa McMahon’s a hospital security camera was soon all amount of time. the baby. room at St. Mary’s Hospital around 7 over the Internet. “We are very proud,” Mélisanne Police have not confirmed the p.m. and took her day-old baby girl, Mélisanne Bergeron, Sharelle Bergeron says. identity of the 21-year-old suspect in Victoria. Bergeron, Marc-André Côté and “Thank you to these people, Trois-Rivières. She is currently in Photo posted to Facebook by a Charlène Plante saw the photo and thank you to the security guards who hospital undergoing a psychiatric relieved father after his newborn was jumped to action. acted quickly and found a picture with evaluation and is expected to be taken from a hospital in Trois-Rivieres “We went on Facebook and the help of the police,” Mélissa McMahon charged in the coming days. and found three hours later by police on saw the news that a baby was posted to Facebook on Tuesday It is unknown if there is a May 26, 2014. Social media and quick- kidnapped. We just needed to act… we morning. connection between her and the baby’s thinking teens save Quebec baby wanted to find the baby,” Plante told “Yesterday, we experienced the mother or father. Baby abduction Canada Global News on Tuesday. worst time of our lives. All of Quebec sent -With files from Amanda Kelly Stolen from hospital: Canadian baby Plante recognized the woman in the Concord Tours and Travel

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NEW BRUNSWICK, NOVA SCOTIA, HALIFAX – 5 DAYS Permis chez OPC:702448 Type Quad Triple Double Single Price $206 $295 $405 $658 Departure Date: Every Saturday, from 14th June to 31st August Departure time: 6:00, Metro Place d’Armes (Corner of St-Urbain & St-Antoine) 6:15, In front of Restaurant Calo-Riz,1875 Panama nus Panama) Arrival Time: 21h00 back in MontrealBasic entrance fees ($55/adult, $45/child(2-12)) Option Entrance fees: Harbor-Hopper ($29/$18) , cruise for whale-watching ($69/$35) cruise to the bird Island ($26/$21), Bonaventure island($6/$4), the Forillon National Park ($8/$6.5), The Cap-Chat Wind Farm ($12/$8)

New York 2 Days (Guided Tour) $48+ Toronto-Niagara Falls 3 days Every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday $68+ Departure time: Toronto-Niagara Falls 2 days 4:00, Metro Place d’Armes (Corner of St- $48+ Urbain & St-Antoine) Departure: Every Wednesday, Friday, 4:15, In front of Restaurant Calo-Riz,1875 Saturday Panama Street (Terminus Panama) Arrival Time: 21h00 back in Montreal Inquire or reserve: 514-485-7861 Cell: 514-506-8753

www.filipinostar.org 12 The North American Filipino Star May 2014 The North American Filipino Star Photo Gallery

Having supper at Kamayan of Vilma Kelly at Cucina Resto Bar Italien on 2362 46th Avenue This table beaming with Filipino style dishes was a great delight to the guests during the in Lachine, May 24, 2014. It was a very successful event. Don’t miss the next one. Kamayan event, May 24, 2014. Check Vilma Kelly’s ad on Mabuhay Montreal TV and make a reservation for your group. Address: 2362 46th Avenue, Lachine, Tel. 514-631-6969.

Some of the guests pose with the owner of Cucina Restaurant (Vilma Kelly standing behind everyone) who all look happy and satisfied. They all agreed to come back another time, bringing with them more friends and family. Just call and reserve. Organize your own Kamayan Party at Cucina, check out the ad on Mabuhay Montreal TV on Videotron Channel 616,Bell Fibe 1216 every Friday night at 7. Also replayed the whole week, so you will not miss it. www.filipinostar.org May 2014 The North American Filipino Star 13 Education raises the bar, but lowers the barriers to a rewarding career. At Gilmore, we are committed to help you achieve your personal and professional goals. COURSES & PROGRAMS Summer 2014 Schedules Fall 2014 Schedules • Accounting/Bookkeeping French as a second language French as a second language • Secretarial - Medical/Legal Monday-Friday Monday & Tuesday • Nursing Aide - PAB/PSW Beginners - 9:00-14:00 9:00 - 14:00 • Languages - Group or Private Intermediate - 14:00-19:00 Wednesday & Friday Advance - 16:00-21:00 9:00 - 14:00 - English English as a second language - French English as a second language Monday-Friday Monday & Tuesday - Spanish Beginners - 9:00-14:00 - Filipino (Tagalog) 14:00 - 19:00 Intermediate - 14:00-19:00 Wednesday & Friday - Mandarin Advance - 16:00-21:00 14:00 - 19:00 Nursing Aide (PAB/PSW) • Early Childhood Education Assistant Accounting & Computers • Office Systems Technology Saturday-Sunday - 8:00-16:00 Accounting Courses Thursday & Saturday • Keyboarding (Touch Typing) 10:00 - 13:00 5320-A Queen Mary • Gregg Shorthand (Senior Monday & Tuesday 14:00 - 17:00 Nursing Aide (PAB/PSW) Montreal, QC H3X 1T7 Secretaries or Journalists) Computer courses Saturday & Sunday (bet. Decarie &Coolbrook) • Fashion Photography (New) Wednesday & Thursday 8:00 - 16:00 (Theory) • Video Production & Editing (New) 14:00 - 17:00 7:00 - 15:00 (Practicum) Tel. 514-485-7861 • Tutoring/Coaching/Mentoring Other courses - on request All tuition fees are tax deductible. Fax: 514-485-3076 • Toefel Preparation (Private course) Subject to a minimum of 6 tudentsregistered. • Seminars - Writing/Entrepreneurship [email protected] Small Business Management

Special Graduation Day for PAB Students, October 7, 2012 - Seated (L-R) Annabelle Alloso, Ethel Tugna, Seated from left: (Faculty members) Edith Fedalizo, Amy Manon-og, Zenaida Kharroubi, Clarice Mackay, Instructors - Terry White, Amy Manon-og, Director General Zenaida Kharroubi, Instructors - Edith Fedalizo and Sophie Toledo. Terry White (not in photo) Standing: PAB students - Ethel Tugna, Anna Signey, Janet & Sophie Toledo. PAB graduate Lourdes Lubang. Standing, L-R: Grace Calvo, Vilma Lagonilla, Mildred Haydock, Lourdes Lubang, and Annabelle Alloso. Not in photo: Joesie Bingayen. Taken during their Mendoza, Giselle Arellano, Marilou Hechanova, Edison Taguba, Annie Signey and Joesie Bingayen. practicum at St. Margaret CHSLD in Westmount. If you can read, you can also learn how to write. Register now! Call 514-485-7861 The Best Writing Workshop is: • interactive • practical • insightful • authentic • multi-cultural • rewarding • stimullating • inspiring • exciting • memorable This workshop will help you develop a personal perspective that is important in discovering your hidden or latent abilities

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

This is a breakthrough idea. The writing workshop experience plants a seed that grows each time you write, long after the weekend workshop has concluded. You will gain special insights that open your creative self as you continue to write. You will be able to set and achieve personal goals to: • learn new and useful methods of solving problems in writing • increase your power to know what you want to say Professor Isaac Goodine • increase your ability to put across persuasively what you have to say • enable you to see the actual relationship you have with your readers International Educator, Author of Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi, Editor & Publisher, The North American the book “Leaders Leading SEMINAR FEES: $495 (including taxes and materials) Filipino Star DURATION: 2 1/2 days - Friday evening, Saturday & Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Leaders”, has delivered many Director-General, Gilmore College Schedule: To be announced to registered participants workshops around the world. International Exec. Producer, Mabuhay Montreal TV 14 The North American Filipino Star May 2014 COMMUNITY NEWS We Are Beyond”: Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month at Our Opening Ceremony with Vice President Joe Biden This week, the White House AAPI population established itself as a Initiative on Asian Americans and civically engaged and politically Pacific Islanders and the U.S. important community. However, we Department of the Interior hosted the know that there is much work to be 2014 Opening Ceremony for AAPI done. As the new Chair of the Heritage Month. The Opening Commission, we will continue to build Ceremony was the first in a series of upon our efforts by opening the doors events to celebrate Asian American of government to the AAPI community. and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Together, the community will push Month. towards better health, immigration U.S. Circuit Judge Sri Srinivasan ceremonially swore in 14 new and two returning members of the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, May 6, 2014. (by Edmund Chiang)

phrase that captures the aspirations of Smithsonian Asian Pacific American the American spirit and the rich and Center, participated in a panel complex diversity of the AAPI discussion about “I Am Beyond.” In community. In light of the theme, DJ addition, spoken word artists George Yoon, the Executive Director of the Yamazawa Jr. and Maxie Moua, National Korean American Service & ukulele singer Kama Hopkins, dancer Education Consortium, Maulik Mike Song, and beatboxer KRNFX Pancholy, an acclaimed film, performed their own interpretations of television, and stage actor, Helen Zia, the theme. an influential activist and journalist, Mary A.Y. Okada, the President of Guam Community College, and Konrad Ng, the Director of the Not a Victory for workers. Temporary It is no victory when workers continue Vice President Joe Biden addresses the Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage to have no choices, because the Month Opening Ceremony, at the U.S. Department of the Interior in Washington, D.C., May Foreign Workers government refuses them access to 6, 2014. May 6, 2014. (Official White House Photo by David Lieneman) pathways to permanent residency or regularized immigration status even We were honored to be joined policy, education, and jobs. Together, It is not a victory for Temporary though they have paid into it by Vice President Joe Biden, who we will be beyond. Foreign Workers because FERME-- spoke about the importance of the Dr. Tung Nguyen is Chair of the organization responsible for It is no victory if workers cannot growing AAPI demographic, and the the President’s Advisory Commission bringing workers to Quebec-- and the benefit from employment insurance pressing need for immigration reform. on Asian Americans and Pacific employers continue to blacklist benefits at the end of their contracts, As Congressman Mike Honda, Chair Islanders.atch the video click here. workers who speak out. or access their pensions. Emeritus of the Congressional Asian For me, the most exciting part Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), of the event was to be ceremonially It is no victory when workers carry out -30- and Congresswoman Judy Chu, Chair sworn into the President’s Advisory their labour in very different Noé Arteaga of CAPAC, remarked, the Vice Commission on AAPIs. The conditions from their Quebecois [email protected] President has been one of the biggest Commission, which is charged with counterparts- For instance, when advocates for the AAPI community. We improving the quality of life for AAPIs temporary foreign workers packing https://twitter.com/noearteaga chicken are no longer paid by the were also honored to be joined by through increased participation and Rhea Suh, the Assistant Secretary for hour, but by the number of trucks Context: access to federal programs, advises they fill. Policy, Management, and Budget at the President on innovative ways to the U.S. Department of the Interior, engage AAPIs across the country. As of March 11, 2014, the Labour and Chris Lu, the Deputy Secretary for It is no victory when, due to closed Code will assure the freedom of During the event, U.S. Circuit Judge work permits, workers cannot change the U.S. Department Labor, and a Sri Srinivasan ceremonially swore in association for all agricultural former chair of the Initiative. To wAAPI employers, and must begin a new workers, including those who work on 14 new and two returning work permit process. Heritage Month serves as an Commissioners. small farms, thereby recognizing their opportunity to celebrate and re- right to unionize, as outlined in a U.S. Circuit Judge Sri It is no victory when only FERME is dedicate ourselves to the ongoing Srinivasan ceremonially swears in press released published Tuesday on work of improving the community. As a able to oversee living and working the Ministry of Labour's website. members of the President's Advisory conditions of temporary foreign returning Commissioner, I am deeply Commission on AAPIs grateful to the previous Commission, U.S. Circuit Judge Sri and the leadership of former Chair Srinivasan ceremonially swore in 14 RIMAP Hospitality Services, Inc. Daphne Kwok. To highlight this new and two returning members of the is in search of candidates for their Courtyard Commission’s tremendous work, a President’s Advisory Commission on Montreal and Hilton Garden Inn Montreal Centre-Ville report on its accomplishments was Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, released this week. In the last four May 6, 2014. (by Edmund Chiang) location in years, we’ve hosted over 200 national To open the program, the • Housekeeping gatherings, roundtables, opening Initiative’s Executive Director Kiran Candidates must be presentable and available dialogues, and workshops, reached Ahuja and Deputy Director Audrey more than 30,000 people, held 24 Buehring led an interactive to do shift work and weekends federal agencies accountable through monologue to highlight the Initiative’s annual Federal Agency Plans, and work and included a social media Please e-mail your resumé to: launched the Regional Interagency “selfie” with Commissioners and Working Group as a platform to audience members. [email protected] connect regional federal This year’s theme for AAPI or by fax (514)840-0180 representatives with local community Heritage Month was “I Am Beyond,” a NO TELEPHONE CALL PLEASE leaders. Within the past four years, the www.filipinostar.org May 2014 The North American Filipino Star 15

refrigerator. Philippine Cuisine Meanwhile, soak bamboo sticks in water for at least 30 minutes to an hour (or even over night). This and prevents the sticks in burning while grilling. Skew pork in bamboo sticks. If you Favorite Food want to use up the excess marinade, be sure to let it come to a boil first, Compiled by Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi before basting onto grilling meat, to destroy any harmful bacteria. Preheat grill over medium heat. Picadillo Grill and baste pork until well cooked. Chayote Guisado thing was, the cashier didn’t know 1 onion, chopped Transfer to a serving platter. Serve it’s name and it took her a long time 3 tomatoes, chopped with your favorite sauce. Enjoy! to figure it out. She even call her co- 1 cup ground meat (pork or beef employee for help and finally the or mixed) Try other variation: chayote that we love was under 3 to 5 cups water squash-vegetable category and was 3 pcs. potatoes, peeled and diced called chayote squash. salt and pepper, to taste Anyway, we’re glad that chayote (Cooking Measurements) vegetable is just a few minutes drive away. Cooking Procedures : Ingredients : Heat oil in a pan over medium 2 to 4 pieces chayote squash, Here in Canada, finding a Chayote is heat. Sauté garlic, onion and pared, seeded and sliced not that difficult because they are now tomatoes until soft and wilted. 1 tbsp. vegetable oil commonly sold in most known Add ground meat and cook until 1/2 lb. pork, sliced grocery stores like No Frills, Price lightly browned for about 3 minutes. 2 cloves garlic, minced Choppers and FreshCo. But few year Season with salt and pepper. Pour in 1 onion, chopped back, I can’t find any chayote in our water and bring to a boil. 2 tomatoes, chopped local community and I have to drive Lower the heat and then add diced 1 tbsp. patis (fish sauce) an hour drive just to have it. potatoes. Cook until tender. Correct salt and pepper, to taste Asadong Manok (Chicken) seasonings. Simmer for another 2 waterngredients : But recently, I was surprise to see minutes. chayote in most shelf to known large Remove from heat. Transfer to a ngredients : 2 tbsp. vegetable oil grocery store in town. Another funny serving dish. Serve hot. 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 lb. chicken, cut into serving BUSINESS HOURS pieces 1/4 cup vinegar Mon. Tue. Wed. 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. 3 cloves garlic, minced Thu. Fri. 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. 2 tsp. salt Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 1/4 tsp. pepper Sunday Closed 1 onion, sliced Beef 1 tomatoes, sliced Blade steak Picnic Ham w/bone 1/2 tbsp. paprika Pork loin 1 bay leaf Approximately 29 1 cup water 15 lbs .99 . 5 lb 3 lb vegetable oil .69 Boneless Pork shoulder - 3 lb $3.99 lb Bone-in shoulder chops (Cooking Measurements) 4.19 lb Pork Barbecue Fresh Pork Leg Cooking Procedures : Home smoked ngredients : Half or Whole pork 09 Cut & Wrapped . meat Combine chicken, vinegar, garlic, 3 lb 1 lb. pork (pork belly or lean 10.99 salt and pepper in a large bowl. Let Beef lb pork), cut thinly stand for at least 30 minutes. 79 lb short ribs salt and pepper, to taste Heat oil in a skillet over medium 2. 49 1 to 2 cups Mama Sita’s Barbecue heat. Sauté onions and tomatoes until . lb Regular smoked bacon Marinade soft and wilted. Drain chicken 6 1 tbsp. calamansi concentrate reserving marinade. Add chicken Fresh Pork Belly Ground Beef 1 tsp. salt pieces to the pan. Stir-fry for about 4 .49 79 6 lb 1/4 tsp. pepper to 6 minutes or until chicken colors 99 4. lb bamboo sticks, for skewer slightly. 4. lb Ground Pork Add marinade, paprika, bay leaf Over 20 lbs 4.29 lb Special 3.79/lb (Cooking Measurements) and water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for Cooking Procedures : 30 minutes or until chicken is tender. St.Chrysostome St. Remi St. Edouard Correct seasonings. Frozen pork blood Napierville Cut pork into thinly slices (or Remove from heat. Transfer to a Fresh liver Sherrington Barrington whatever suits to your liking). This Pork skin serving dish and serve. 203 219 202 Lacolle makes the meat cook faster in lesser Hemmingford Jackso Sortie Havelock n Road Exit No.6 time. Goat Canada Parc Class 15 Place sliced meat in a bowl and Feature your business on Available 219 Safari Covey Hill Road season with salt and pepper. Let sits MMTV on order Boucherie Viau Inc. U. S. A. for 30 minutes. Call us at Malone Moders Champlain Pour in MS Barbecue Marinade, 514-485-7861 calamansi concentrate, salt and 83 Covey Hill, Hemmingford QC J0L 1H0 pepper. Marinate pork for at least an Get a package deal with Tel.: (450) 247- 2130 or (450) 247- 3561 hour or two, or overnight, in the Mabuhay Montreal TV and the Filipino Star. www.filipinostar.org 16 The North American Filipino Star May 2014 FILIPINO STAR S H O W B I Z G O S S I P

Miss Teen Earth 2014: Inspiring kids, Cristine Reyes: teens to go green by Rowena Tan Beautiful and stress-free by Walden Sadiri M. Belen

Cristine Reyes Cristine Reyes has learned how to keep herself stress-free. How? The 24-year old actress Miss Teen Earth Candidates with Miss Universe 2011 3rd runner up, Arch. Shamcey Supsup- Lee said she refrains from working on three or more acting projects at once. Vas Bismark, chief executive hometowns. Captured Dream Productions, said Cristine shared, “Mahirap po officer of Miss Teen Earth Philippines “We will have different foundations they don’t consider the contest an all- kasing pagsabaysabayin lahat. Mas and Little Miss Earth Philippines, is that we will co-project and we will be out beauty pageant but more of an maganda rin po na relaxed lang.” quite passionate in helping save the educating them,” he said. environmentally-themed advocacy. She is in the long over-due “My environment through beauty The winner, he said, will receive “Through it we aim to Trophy Wife” with Heart Evangelista pageants. funding for her proposed (emphasize) the need to be educated and in “The Gifted” with Anne Curtis. Cristine was quick to refute rumors that she has a new boyfriend. When asked if she’s done posing for men’s magazines, she said, “If ever meron silang offer para sa akin, I’ll think about it. Right now I’m enjoying what I’m doing like drama, comedy with some sexiness on the side. Hindi ko sinasabi na tapos na ako sa FHM but right now I’m enjoying this.” The actress was recently named ambassador for EB Advance, Ever Bilena Cosmetics Inc.’s flagship product. “It’s a blessing and I’m very happy to be part of the Ever Bilena family. I tried the product before saying yes and to my surprise Miss Teen Earth 2014 Manila Preliminaries maganda siya at wala siyang difference from imported make-up “Win or lose they can still do their environmental project. about the problems of our planet, products,” shared Cristine. part in taking care of Mother Earth,” According to Bismark, the including pollution and climate “Cristine is the epitome of a he reminded the candidates. pageants also advocate change,” he said. beautiful Filipina. It is also our flagship Bismark met with media at the vegetarianism and other pressing The coronation night for Miss product. Kung baga sa pelikula ito launch of the two youth pageants issues like climate change. Teen Earth Philippines and Little Miss ‘yung tumatabo sa kaban ng Ever Bilena. And Cristine Reyes is a recently. He shared how he would Asked what winning qualities Earth Philippines will be bankable star so kinakailangan ng tour the candidates around the they are looking for, Bismark simultaneously held on May 27, 7 bankable product din,” related an EB country and expose them to answered, “Somebody who is really p.m. at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, representative. “environmental concerns and how to comfortable (with) themselves and Pasay City. With Cristine, EB Advance aims to address these.” not trying to be somebody else; Winners of both pageants receive continue to empower Filipinas, More, he promised to help the someone that shares our passion in R500,000 in cash respectively, and a especially those aged 24 to 30, “to winning candidates organize taking care of the environment and talent contract with Captured Dream bring out their beauty at its environment protection-themed the willingness to learn.” Productions. a finest with affordable makeups that projects in their respective Jed Velasco, chief operating officer of work wonders.” a www.filipinostar.org May 2014 The North American Filipino Star 17 Claudine very much alive, rebuts death reports The reason The news of her supposed behind Zsa Zsa’s death due to drug overdose left Claudine Barretto distraught over smile some fans being affected by the issue. Clarifying that it was a hoax, Claudine spoke with GMA News on Wednesday to lament, “Meron na ngang Claudinian na na-heart attack. ’Yung isa naman na-stroke.” Addressing her attackers, Claudine said, “Sana masaya na kayo sa ginagawa ninyo. Pinapahaba niyo lang ang buhay ko. God bless you na lang po kung sinuman kayo.” Claudine also revealed another supposed “attack” on their house, showing media the broken metal protrusions on their gate. Early this month, Claudine also made public how somebody supposedly “shot” at their house, breaking the glass door on their veranda. Zsa Zsa Padilla celebrates her 50th The village security issued a birthday on May 28 statement saying that there were indeed “multiple gun shots (heard) After mourning for more than a somewhere in the vicinity of Brgy. year for her longtime partner Dolphy, Malanday, Marikina City.” singer-actress Zsa Zsa Padilla has Claudine clarified that she is not found happiness again. accusing estranged husband Raymart On Sunday, during her 50th Santiago of perpetrating the alleged birthday celebration on “ASAP 19,” attacks. her boyfriend Conrad Onglao, “I don’t understand why other Claudine Barretto appeared onstage to give her a people think na, like si Raymart, akala bouquet of flowers after a ni Raymart, siya ’yung pinatatamaan never even thought, it never even Although she worries for her performance. ko. Ngayon, kung tinatamaan siya eh crossed my mind na siya ’yun dahil children, Claudine maintained, “Hindi The couple were later joined by baka nga may ginawa siya. Pero for mga anak niya ’yung involved eh,” she ko pinababayaan ang mga anak ko. “ASAP” co-hosts Gary Valenciano and explained. a the record, I never said it was him. I I’m very vigilant.” Nikki Gil. When Gil asked if Onglao is the Maegan makes public spat with Freddie reason behind her beautiful smile, Padilla replied, “Yes, he brought back the smile.” Onglao, whom Padilla said had taken care of her the night before because she was sick, wished the singer-actress more success and happiness. Gary, for his part, wished his good friend a “happily ever after.” Onglao gave Padilla a kiss on the lips after the latter blew the candles on her birthday cake.

Support from family

Maegan Aguilar The family of deceased partner Dolphy is supportive of Padilla’s Rotten vegetables – these, newfound love. according to Maegan Aguilar is what Eric Quizon, for one, shared in an supposedly prompted their father, interview with ABS-CBN News, “Kung Pinoy folk music icon Freddie saan siya masaya, she has the Aguilar, to throw her, her partner Ali, support of the whole family. Walang and their children, out on the streets Freddie Aguilar samaan ng loob.” on May 12. He further stated, “Alam naman niya) ‘Lumayas kayo, lumayas kayo.’ simply issued a statement The decomposing greens was namin ang serbisyo at pagmamahal Palalayasin ako ng dahil sa gulay, concerning the matter. It read thus: said to have been discovered by the na binigay niya sa daddy ko. For that, kami ng mga anak ko. Can you “My daughter, her partner, and all Aguilar patriarch while rummaging we are very happy that she was and believe (it)?” other people living in my house know through the fridge and had a talk with always will be a part of the Quizon Currently, Maegan and her family the truth. I have been supporting my her daughter about it. family. But just like I said, kung saan are temporarily living in the house of 35-year-old daughter and my family “Sabi ko, ‘Hindi ko po ginalaw siya masaya, masaya rin kami.” a bandmate. She aims to find a place for many years now and have no ’yung (veggies sa) ref dahil The actor-director deemed it right of their own soon. intention of dragging her through the magagalit ka kung may mawala for Padilla to move on, saying, “she’s “Ngayon masasabi ko, I regret mud for entertainment’s sake. doon.’ ’Yun lang ’yung sinabi ko still young!” being your daughter, I do,” she “I wish Maegan all the best as tapos bigla siyang nag-explode na He added, “Kung ang daddy ko stressed, addressing her father. “Kasi she moves on and takes parang ang sama-sama ng sinabi nga, ang daming naging asawa, eh.” ko,” Maegan related in an interview parang ang sama mo eh, ang sama responsibility of her own life. It is with “Saksi” on Monday. niya eh. Bago ako mamatay, bago ka because I love my daughter that I She continued, “Wala pang five mamatay (gusto ko) malaman mo choose to say nothing more on this More Showbiz Gossip minutes ’yun nagwawala siya, (sabi ’yung galit ko sayo… sa ginawa mo.” matter.” a p.18 The “Anak” singer-songwriter www.filipinostar.org 18 The North American Filipino Star May 2014 Showbiz Gossip Continued from p.17 Willie responds to bankruptcy Ai Ai feels ‘ready’ for politics claims

Willie Revillame Actor-host Willie Revillame has you,” he said. Malaya Watson finally broken his silence amid Revillame also said that he is Ai Ai delas Alas is slowly preparing rely on her family. In fact, her kids are allegations that he’s hooked on happy with how Almoro raised their for the “biggest” leap of faith in her life, behind her in whatever she decides to gambling, losing millions in the son, Juamee. so to speak: joining politics. do. “Ang mga anak ko naman ay process. “Maganda ang upbringing ni In fact, the Kapamilya actress has (supportive of) anything that will make In an interview with “Startalk” on Juamee kasi ang galing mag-English, not only taken up public administration me happy,” she said. Sunday, Revillame admitted that he hindi ko nga maintindihan minsan. and governance at the University of Ai Ai, however, is still uncertain of goes to casinos but insisted that, Sabi ko, ‘Don’t speak English with the Philippines, she is now a the position she would run for. She “Nag-e-enjoy lang ako sa buhay (at) Papa, Tagalog lang,’” he said registered voter in her hometown of also noted that she still has contractual kung nanalo naman po ako ay laughing. Calatagan, Batangas. obligations with ABS-CBN and Star madami akong natutulungan; kung Revillame and Almoro tied the While Ai Ai admitted being half- Cinema until 2016. natatalo naman ay tumutulong pa rin.” knot at the Santuario de San Antonio hearted about the idea two years ago, “Siguro magdadasal ako na As to accusations that he, at one Parish in Forbes Park in June 2005. she declared, “Ngayon, ready na ako.” bigyan Niya ako nang sobra-sobrang point, allegedly lost up to R600 million Their marriage was annulled in Ai Ai faced reporters on Tuesday sign pa (if I should go on),” she stated. gambling, he jested, “R595 million 2008. after being launched as Belo Medical Like a ‘virgin’ lang.” Politics or showbiz? Group’s ambassador for its FemiLift Ai Ai can’t fully say that she has He maintained, “Ang perang If the “Igiling Giling” singer procedure. recovered from her much-publicized pinanglalaro ko sa casino ay perang seemed vague about politics – saying, She names Star for All Seasons separation from second husband Jed pinaghirapan ko at hindi ng kung sinu- “Napakahirap pong desisyunan sa and Batangas Governor Vilma Santos- Salang. sino…” buhay ’yan eh, kasi gumawa ka ng Recto as among those that have really Asked if she is ready to love again, Revillame also confirmed reports mabuti, gumawa ka ng masama, inspired her to even think about the Comedy Concert Queen pleaded, that he is selling the Wil Tower Mall masama ka pa rin basta masira ka pursuing a career in politics. “Bigyan niyo ako ng six months pa.” along Mother Ignacia, Quezon City to lang” – he nevertheless noted, “(Pero) “(Kasi) lahat ng ginagawa ni Ate Ai Ai has agreed to endorse former senator Manny Villar. “Kasi mahirap magsalita nang tapos.” Vi, idol ko siya eh. Wala nga lang FemiLift by Belo, a feminine tightening hindi ko ho alam papaano patakbuhin He added, “Sa mga nangyayari akong asawang senador pero anong procedure. ang isang mall… may mga bagay ngayon papasok ka pa ba sa pulitika? malay mo,” Ai Ai said. While the topic may be a bit kang binebenta (kasi) hindi mo na Napakahirap, ’di ba?” “Second, gusto ko ring ma- sensitive to some, Ai Ai is undeniably kailangan,” he explained. Maintaining that his other experience, kasi marami akong up for it, saying, “Isa naman talaga He shared that he is now busy businesses are enough to keep him gustong mangyari sa Pilipinas. Nafu- ’yun sa dahilan bakit humahanap ng building a five-star boutique hotel in busy in the coming months, he frustrate ako pero wala naman ako iba ang mga partners or asawa.” Tagaytay. nonetheless announced that he would magawa so baka kapag nasa office Ai Ai shared that she feels like a “Diyan ang focus ko ngayon. be returning to showbiz in three ako, may magawa (na) ako.” “virgin” following the procedure. Diyan ko inubos ang panahon ko months’ time. Fully aware that showbiz is a far She jested, “Sana matagpuan ko nu’ng wala akong ginagawa,” he said. “Sigurado na po ’yun… different world from politics, if Ai Ai kung sino ang pinaka-swerteng ‘Congratulations’ Magbibigay na po ako ulit ng saya at feels daunted at all, she looks to her makaka-test…” The comedian also commented tulong. Nag-iipon lang po ako ng mas idol’s guidance. “Nandiyan naman si She added, “The search is on,” on the wedding of his ex-wife model maraming ideas,” he said. Ate Vi para tulungan ako at mag- intimating her openness to dating men Liz Almoro to actor Victor Aliwalas. Revillame was last seen as host on advise sa akin.” of all ages. “(Walang ‘dala na’ factor) “Actually hindi ko alam na TV5’s “Willing Willie,” which ended Ai Ai has gone through a lot of ups kasi pare-pareho naman sila eh, bata o nagpakasal siya. Pero, of course, all October last year. a and downs, in some instances even matanda parehas namang nakaka- the best, congratulations to the both of publicly, but has always been able to trauma.” a Vhong Navarro attends preliminary investigation of 3rd rape case Actor Vhong Navarro appeared actor and his lawyers during the last before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s court hearing of the actor’s case in Office on Thursday for the Taguig. She wore a shirt that was preliminary investigation of a rape printed with the words, “Justice for case filed against him by a female Deniece! Jail the rapist!” stunt double, a radio report said. Reports said a couple of people The report said one of Navarro’s arrived at the QC Prosecutor’s Office accusers, pageant contestant carrying placards that read, “Jail the Roxanne Cabañero, also showed up. Deniece Cornejo who was the first to rapist.” a Also spotted was Florencia accuse Navarro of rape. Vhong Navarro Cornejo, the grandmother of model The elder Cornejo heckled the www.filipinostar.org May 2014 The North American Filipino Star 19 Marian, the dance diva tinupad ng GMA, ang magkaroon ng rin na gagawin pero isa ’yun sa mga “Kasi naniniwala ako na ang dance show,” she shares in a recent talagang inspirasyon ng show na ito magkaibigan kahit minsan hindi interview with select members of the at wala naman pong makakatalo magkita at mag-textan pero ’pag press. talaga nung araw ng mga kasikatan nagkita andun pa rin ’yung spark, Marian is expected to fuse ng sayaw nila (Gov. Vilma and magkaibigan talaga, eh, ganun kami different dance steps for the one-hour Maricel),” she adds. ni Pao,” Marian says. show including hip hop, jazz and Interestingly, Marian come from a The two first worked on the GMA ballroom. family of dancers. series “Ang Babaeng Hinugot Sa The sexy star doesn’t mind doing “Ang pamilya ko siguro ay isa sa Aking Tadyang.” “buwis buhay” moves to better the mga dahilan din kung bakit mahilig Marian relates, “Si Paolo ay isa sa show, saying, “Gagawin ko naman ako sumayaw,” she says. pinaka-paborito kong artista at tsaka talaga ang lahat.” Aside from the dance production, inaanak ko ’yung anak niya…” Not known to many, Marian is a Marian says viewers can look forward natural at dancing. She shared that to the grand costumes she will be Acting vs. dancing she used to compete in dance events wearing for the show. Her stylists are in high school. Liz Uy and Pam Quiniones, among Marian admits that the show will “Hindi lingid sa kaalaman ’yan ng others. keep her busy but she is not mga schoolmates ko dati na kahit How sexy will she be for the complaining. individual dance competition show? She narrates, “Kasi ang teleserye lumalaban ako,” she relates. Marian lets out a laugh and says, (like) ‘Carmela’ pupunta ka sa taping, And her forte? “Hip hop kasi hilig “To the fullest.” magta-trabaho ka hanggang alas dos ko, eh, pati Lambada, mga ganun.” or alas tres ng madaling araw. Itong It’s not surprsing really for Fellow star dance show iba eh, may rehearsals, someone who popularized the 2009 may costume changes. Meron ring dance hit “Sabay Sabay Tayo.” Marian’s co-host for her new mga guest na kailangan interview- Marian, however, could not dance show is Paolo Ballesteros. hin. Ayoko din naman mag-interview guarantee that fans will see her Good friends outside the biz, ng wala akong alam so magre- Marian Rivera signature dance moves on the show. Marian maintains that Paolo is her research pa rin ako.” personal choice. The actress believes that she Marian Rivera is going back to If anything, the Kapuso Primetime “Yung iniisip ko na si Paolo ang could juggle acting and dancing at her first love — dancing, this, via a Queen is only sure of one thing: “Ang gusto kong maka-trabaho, ’yun din the same time. dance variety show that bears her pilot episode namin ay magfo-focus pala ang iniisip nila. So, nagkataon “Love ko ang pag-arte, minahal name, which is set to air starting June sa mga sayaw na pinasikat nila Ate V lang talaga,” she admits. ako ng tao diyan, at hilig ko din ang 22. (Santos) at ni Ms. Maricel (Soriano).” She considers Paolo a “close pagsayaw nasa dugo ko na talaga “Isa ito sa mga pangarap ko na “Ayoko namang sabihin na parang ginaya. May enhancement pa friend.” ang sumayaw,” she says. a Coco Martin clears Nora Aunor’s ‘debt’ issue, child rumors

A question of paternity

On the show, the “Ikaw Lamang” actor also addressed the issue of his rumored love child with sexy actress Katherine Luna. He revealed that he had undergone DNA testing and the result was negative. He recalled how the kid, along with her grandmother, visited him while he was filming “Born To Love You” in Luneta years back. “Kinausap ko na ’yung lola na parang kung maaari ibibigay na sa akin para mabigyan ko ng tamang guidance, para makatulong ako… (sa) pangangailangan niya. Sa sobrang excited ko, tinawagan ko ’yung manager ko… sabi ko pwede ko na makuha ’yung bata,” believing Coco and Nora Aunor in a scene in the child to be his. ‘Padre de Familia’ “Sinabi (ng lola niya), ‘Teka lang Coco Martin sa’kin ng tatlong beses… Wala hindi ganun kadali ’yun. Kailangan akong natanggap. Hindi pwedeng idaan sa legal na sitwasyon…’ Sabi Actor Coco Martin refuted talks nagte-text pa kami,” he noted. hindi ko siya pansinin.” niya, ‘Kung talagang gusto mo, that Nora Aunor has been asking Last week, Nora addressed the As for the whole kausapin natin, ipa-DNA (test) muna money from him. issue on TV5’s “Showbiz Police” and misunderstanding, “Nag-text ako kay natin.” “Parang ang sakit. Naiinis ako revealed that she had reached out to Ate Guy, humingi ako ng sorry, ang Refuting that he abandoned the kasi kilala niyo ba ’yung taong Coco. haba ng text ko,” he shared. mother during her pregnancy, Coco sinasabihan niyo ng ganun? Kasi “Ang gusto ko lang naman sa Now, Coco only wants the inisted he fulfilled what he thought hindi maganda eh, hindi totoo,” he kanya ay ilinaw na mali naman ’yung controversy cleared. “May utang na was his reponsibility and was there said in a tell-all interview on “The sinasabi ng iba. Hinihintay ko sanang loob ako sa tao, eh, pumayag siya na until the kid was born. Now, with the Buzz,” Sunday. siya ay tumawag kasi hindi ko naman makasama ako sa pelikula,” said he. DNA result, he feels for the child, The actor, who stars with Nora in alam kung natatanggap niya ang “Alam ko nagtatampo siya sa’kin saying, “Paano na ngayon siya? Adolf Alix Jr.’s “Padre de Familia,” texts ko kasi nagtawagan na kami pero hindi ako papayag hangga’t ’Yung pinakainaasahan niyang hope, said that they had a good working minsan,” she lamented. a hindi ko nakaklaro (ang issue) at wala pala.” relationship. Coco said he had no intentions of hindi ko nalilinis kung sino man ’yung “Hanggang sa natapos ’yung ignoring the Superstar, claiming, More Showbiz Gossip taong ’yun na sumulat para sirain pelikula nagtatawagan pa kami, “Hindi ko alam na nag-text pala siya p.20 siya.” p.20 www.filipinostar.org 20 The North American Filipino Star May 2014 differences. “Mas nagka-clash pa Continued from p.19 Showbiz Gossip The Miss Universe 2012 first runner- kami kesa nagkakasundo,” the up stirred controversy when she Kapuso actress was quoted as Cold summer nights: confirmed on “Kris TV” that she had saying in an interview with “Startalk.” broken up with her then-boyfriend of She also dismissed reports of a third Celebrity breakups in the one year, Jaypee Santos – while both party. “Walang kinalaman ito sa kahit of them were guests on the show, no sinong nakatrabaho namin, season of the sun less. On the same episode, she nakakatrabaho ngayon, o spoke of meeting The Script makakatrabaho in the future,” added Summer isn’t just about getting Piling Mo” in 2010 before they started frontman Danny O’Donoghue during Carla. gorgeously tanned (as Olaf from dating. the group’s visit to the country for a Of late, Carla is being “Frozen” puts it) or sharing warm They were together for over a concert in March that year. romantically linked to her “My hugs and kisses. Indeed, summer year until the Kapuso host-actress The beauty queen left the Husband’s Lover” co-star Tom could be dark and gloomy, or even decided to end the relationship in Philippines months after to study in Rodriguez. She has denied this, cold as winter, too, like some April 2012. The breakup happened the US, where she would supposedly however, claiming that she and Tom celebrities would attest. over Skype while Daniel was be staying for good. Before she left, are just friends and colleagues. a Before finally welcoming the vacationing in Brazil, his hometown. Janine clarified on her “The Buzz” rains, here is a refresher on some of The former couple made the split interview that “there’s a bigger story” Sarah wants to the most talked-about celebrity public through Twitter. Although both behind her breakup with Jaypee. She relationships that were called off one claimed that there was no third party also denied dating Benjamin Alves, be recognized as summer. involved, the reason behind the split whom she described as a good a serious actress remained unknown. friend and church-mate. (Photo: Derek Ramsay and Angelica Heart is now in a relationship with Instagram) in new film Panganiban (February 2012) Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero; Daniel remains single. Ai Ai delas Alas and Jed Salang (May 2013) John Lloyd Cruz and Shaina Magdayao (April 2012)

Ai Ai delas Alas and Jed Salang Angelica Panganiban and Derek Ramsay Ai Ai split with businessman Jed Shaina Magdayao and John Lloyd Cruz Salang, who is 20 years her junior, Sarah Geronimo Although Derek confirmed the after only a month of marriage. The split in May 2012, Angelica revealed comedienne broke the news of the Sarah Geronimo’s fans are in an interview with StarStudio Shaina herself ended all separation on national TV, claiming eagerly awaiting her next movie magazine that they actually broke up speculations relating to her then- that her relationship with Jed, whom because they still remember how they over the phone February that year. rumored split with John Lloyd. she married on April 3, 2013 in Las enjoyed her last one with John Lloyd Angelica blamed the end of their It was known that they parted Vegas, was flawed and marred by his Cruz. six-year relationship on the hunk- ways sometime in April 2012 but she alleged abusive behavior. A Las Now that she is coming out with actor whom she accused of only confirmed it a month later. “The Vegas court granted her a divorce her brand new romance flick “Maybe supposedly being controlling. She reason is purely between John Lloyd just in January this year. (Photo: This Time” on May 28 opposite also claimed Derek didn’t support and myself,” part of her statement Instagram) another ABS-CBN prince Coco her search for her biological father. read. Martin, Sarah wants to be taken Another issue she harped on is that John Lloyd and Shaina first Carla Abellana and Geoff seriously as an actress. of Derek being allegedly married to parted ways in October 2011 but Eigenmann (April 2014) “Ang gusto ko po talaga dito sa one Mary Christine Jolly in 2002. were able to patch things up movie na ito, ’yung makita ng mga tao The Kapamilya actress is now in privately. ’yung maturity ko as an actress. Kasi a relationship with John Lloyd Cruz. In October 2012, John Lloyd po kahit na romantic movie po ito at Derek, on the other hand, is single. revealed that he is in a relationship nakilala ako sa mga rom-coms, ibang with Angelica Panganiban, who had level po talaga ang pinagdaanan ng Heart Evangelista and Daniel split from Derek earlier. (Photo: characters namin ni Coco sa Matsunaga (April 2012) Kapamilyalogy) pelikulang ito. Masyado pong malalim. ’Yun po ang gusto kong Janine Tugonon and Jaypee makita ng mga tao,” she said. Santos (April 2013) Sarah plays the role of a PR assistant in a firm headed by Ruffa Gutierrez. Coco Martin, plays Ruffa’s boyfriend, who happens to be Sarah’s first love. Matters are complicated further with Ruffa’s character assigning Sarah’s to help transform Coco’s character with probinsiyano image to fit the more Geoff Eigenmann & Carla Abellana cosmopolitan world of his girlfriend. Daniel Matsunaga and Heart Evangelista The movie is directed by Jerry The “Rosalinda” stars decided to Lopez Sineneng and is part of Star end their almost four-year Cinema’s 20th anniversary Heart and Daniel co-starred in relationship due to personal the defunct Kapuso series “Langit Sa Janine Tugonon and Jaypee Santos presentation. a May 2014 The North American Filipino Star 21 Christopher De Leon's youngest Bea Alonzo thrilled over new soap daughter Mariel wants to join "Parang gusto kong sabihin 10 showbiz years from now na 'oy one day na ka- portray ako ng dalawang characters' didn't have to ask permission [to join hindi ba? Ang sarap niyang isama showbiz] naman kasi their rule my doon sa projects na nagawa ko. whole life was just as long as I finish Plus, kasi with help of our directors college you can do what you want so I mas lalong naging madali for me. decided to do this and they're Hindi ko siya tinuturing na two supportive naman. different characters in one soap Currently focusing on honing her opera, para siyang two different acting skills, Mariel said her parents Bea Alonzo characters in different projects," she did not really make her feel she had an added. advantage just because she was the Actress Bea Alonzo is excited In the series, Alonzo will play the daughter of veteran actors. “For about her upcoming series "Sana characters -- Emmanuelle, a feisty acting, sometimes they give advice Bukas Pa Ang Kahapon" with leading lawyer with a loving family; and lang. Pero they're not stage parents so men Albert Martinez and Paulo Rose, a woman accused of a crime they don't really give me any advice Avelino. and now that I'm just starting. They she did not commit. In a press conference on want to start from the bottom, no The actress also agreed to do Thursday night, Alonzo said this is shortcuts,” she admitted. more intimate scenes in the series. her frist time to portray dual Mariel De Leon Mariel, who was a finalist in Alonzo said she's just lucky to characters. Two years after she got her degree Binibining Pilipinas 2013, said she is work with two gentlemen in the soap. "First time sa akin ito to portray in Professional Cookery in an currently undergoing workshops in "Alam mo gentlemen sila at hindi dual characters, physically draining international culinary school in New ABS-CBN to better equip herself in nila ako pinabayaan. Kahit paano, din siya. Kasi palit ka nang palit ng Zealand, Mariel De Leon said she was this venture. “I decided to do the kahit ilang beses ko nang nagagawa happy to fulfill her parents’ only acting workshops after Binibining make-up lalo na kapag may double sa TV at pelikula pero sila ay condition before she entered showbiz. Pilipinas. I finished one na with a exposure na eksena. Pero ako I like gentlemen talaga, di nila ako The youngest daughter of Christopher teacher from Star Cinema and now I'm accepting challenges so ito yung pinababayaan," she said. a De Leon and Sandy Andolong said going to join another one. Wala pa maipagmamalaki ko siguro," Alonzo her parents never influenced her to (offers). Nag-wo-workshop muna ako said. follow their showbiz careers, but have sa ABS-CBN. I want to try this muna, always guided her to follow her showbiz and opera. I want to try dreams. drama. I think it's easier to cry than to “They were always supportive. 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attendance of municipal politicians. Putin and Xi signed an energy resulted in shifting alliances, where CCAFQ holds For more information, like agreement that calls for Russia to friends have become foes and vice reservation of tents, please call James supply China with $400 billion of versa. Russia and China were major spring disco de la Paz at (514)-577-7787 or Dario natural gas over the next 30 years. And allies of the US in World War II and are Buco at (514) 995-7612. to show to the world that they have now major rivals in the race for world by W. G. Quiambaoi become comrades in arms, the dominance. Japan and Germany, After a long harsh winter, Russian and Chinese Navies held a which were the Americans; biggest spring has finally arrived. The Council From Page 2 - Strategic Alliances joint naval exercise in the East China enemies in the Second World War, on of Canadian-Filipino Associations of Sea amid territorial tensions in Asia. the other hand, are now America’s Quebec welcomed the arrival of Sea area is believed to contain from While China is spending allies. spring by holding a disco at 6767 seven billion to as high as 130 billion billions of dollars to beef up its military Vietnam was an ally of both Cote des Neiges on April 26. More barrels of oil reserves, and billions of muscle, the US is actually cutting down Russia and China during the Vietnam than 120 members of the community barrels of natural gas, important on its military budget as it focuses on War in the 60s, but is now an important and friends of the FFCAQ Executive resources that are necessary to fuel its domestic problems. American ally. Japan, which invaded Board attended the party. China’s economy and consequent rise Just like the Philippines, the and occupied the Philippines for five The hall was filed with lovely as a superpower. The area is also a rich US is aware that it needs to forge years in the Second World War, is now music, mostly oldies like Banana source of fish and other marine stronger alliances with Asian nations to a Philippine ally. Boat Song (Day O), Oh Carol, Knock resources to feed the more than a billion counter the emerging Russo-Chinese Europe and the Pacific were Three Times, Guantanamera, that Chinese. alliance in the region. The US is not the main theaters in the Second World brought back memories to the guests Just as importantly, the area is a ready to build expensive new bases in War, and from all indications, Asia in their 40s and above. The non-stop major shipping lane for many nations the region, but it can reach agreements would continue to be the flashpoint in dancing continued past midnight. and accounts for more than half of the with host countries to use existing the world’s military theater in the James de la Paz, president of world’s shipping activity. bases, just as it did with the Philippines coming years. China, Vietnam, the CCAFQ unveiled the Association’s Amid the escalating tension in through the Enhanced Defense Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan, Indonesia, plan to celebrate the Philippines' the area, analysts are questioning the Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). Singapore, the two Koreas, and other 116th Independence Day which will weak and tentative response of the The US is also planning to Asian countries are all beefing up their expand its use of bases in Australia military muscles in one of the biggest be held on June 22, Sunday. The Obama administration. They said that and Japan, and possibly Singapore arms races the world has ever seen. celebrations include a parade which after announcing a “pivot to Asia,” the and Thailand. In addition, Washington The Philippines, which does will be participated by associations US government has not really done is wooing Malaysia. These countries not have the means to keep up with its and community members and much to back up its promise. Instead, are in the thick of an Asian arms race neighbors in the arms race, needs to activities at the Mackenzie King Park they argue, Russia has done more to pivot to Asia, with Russian President with China, which has become start positioning itself rightly in this like a Holy Mass to be officiated by a Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi inevitable as their economies grow. developing drama. Filipino priest, multicultural shows, Jinping all but formalizing a Russian- The world has indeed changed. The karaoke singing, gun salute by the Chinese alliance earlier this month. rise and fall of economies have ([email protected]) Royal Canadian Army and

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Cabbage - 79¢ lb Baby Bok Choy - 79¢ lb Chicken Drumsticks - $1.29 lb Pork Shoulder - $2.49 lb

www.filipinostar.org 24 The North American Filipino Star May 2014

To celebrate the forthcoming Silver Anniversary of Gilmore College International, we are offering 25% discount on tuition fees of the following courses: English, French, Filipino, subject to a minimum enrollment of 10 students per class. Offer valid from May 1, to July 30, 2014. Limited spaces - first come, first served. Please call 514-485-7861 for an appoinment to register and 5320-A Queen Mary Road bring a $35 registration fee. Tuition fees are payable in 2 payments, Montreal, QC H3X 1T7 at start and middle of the courses. Telephone: 514-485-7861 SPECIAL OFFER TO TOURISTS: Intensive English or French language courses - 25 hours Register by appointment. Flexible schedules, Tuition fees are tax deductible. per week - Four weeks or 100 hours - $600 - Minimum enrollment of 6 per class - 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

www.filipinostar.org