Are you now a member? Find out how you can be a 2 for 1 member of the first Special Filipino Cooperative in Tonkinoise soup with beef Quebec. $6.75 tax See ad on page 7 February 2007 Vol. XXV No. 2 Call 514-733-8915 Valid Feb. 22 - Mar 2, 2007 with this ad www.filipinostar.org Nigerian kidnappers release 24 Filipino family represents NWT at Filipino hostages citizenship ceremony

Nigerian kidnappers have released all 24 Filipino seamen they had been holding captive in the creeks of the oil-producing Niger Delta since January 20 Story on Page 3 The Pangilinan family was chosen to represent the Northwest Territory and to participate in the commeration of the 60th anniversary of citizenship. SEE PAGE 5 Parents and children invited to Scouts Fun Night The First Filipino-Canadian Scouts group is inviting parents and their children to attend its first Fun Night which will be held on Saturday, February 24, at 6767 Cote Des Neiges, 6th floor dining hall of the Intercultural Library building opposite Plaza Cote Laguna Province TOURISM |PAGE 10 des Neiges., starting at 3:30 p.m. Admission is free. Members and volunteers are bringing potluck dishes Contents for the supper to be served to all who will attend. Please call 514-485-7861 Earth Talk ...... p. 8 to let Laging Handa Scouts know how many people will attend this Fun Night. Classified Ads ...... p. 9 A lineup of activities, games, and video presentations will surely entertain the Philippine Cuisine ...... p. 9 parents and their children. The Area Commissioner, Mr. Mark Brenchley Tourism ...... p. 10 and other Scout leaders will be The Laging Handa Scouts pose for souvenir with La Union Governor Victor F. Ortega who was the moderating the games and they will guest speaker of FAMAS during the 108th Independence Day Anniversary Celebration, June 10, 2006 Photo Gallery ...... p. 12 also be happy to explain to the better alternative to watching TV or Paac, and Mary Joy Lizarondo. With parents what Scouting can offer to the playing video games. the increasing number of youth, there Entertainment . . . . . p. 14-15 development of our youth's leadership Mr. Claro Bermudez, Head Scout is also an increasing demand for adult and survival skills. There will be Leader, will be assisted by Scout volunteers. We are making an appeal Cooperative News ...... p. 20 demonstrations of typical Scouting Volunteers Romy Valenzuela, Anna to those who can devote two hours activities, ceremonies, games, and May Tappan, Richard San Miguel, weekly to help in the implementation of Global Perspectives . . . . p. 21 songs. The parents can watch their Giovanni Ortiz, and parent volunteers, the Scouting program to Filipino- children participate in the games and Joselito Sarto, Riza Esmeralda, Arnold be convinced that Scouting can offer a Ortiz, Bob and Helen Araneta, Cristina See Page 4 Scouts GET A SECOND OPINION. When you invest, a second opinion can give you great peace of mind. Whether you’re a novice investor or a seasoned veteran, a second opinion on your investment portfolio can let you know whether you’re on the right track. Find out if your current investments are right for you.. Call JEAN-PIERRE SANCHEZ Scotiabank Branch at Van Horne branch to arrange a FREE 4861 Van Horne, Montreal, Qc H3W 1J2 Portfolio review. (514) 731-2203 (514) 731-2203 www.filipinostar.org 2 The North American Filipino Star february 2007 Filipino Solidarity Cooperative EDITORIAL Divisoria Cubao Let the world be inspired by the Scouting spirit 4711 Van Horne Avenue Everyone agrees that our contemplated. future lies in our youth. . Yet, it would Scouting is a type of informal Montreal, QC H3W 1H8 seem that we render lip service to the education with an emphasis on task of making sure that our youth is practical outdoor activities, including prepared to take over the leadership camping, woodcraft, aquatics, hiking, roles that will surely be left vacant by backpacking, and sports. It is learning the natural process of attrition. There by doing. It is also an excellent way of are many organizations, all of different promoting awareness of the orientations but it seems that there are environment and encouraging the a few that are devoted to youth conservation of our natural resources. development. Needless to say, it will Would it not be a wonderful project if all be worthwhile considering Scouting as young Filipino boys get involved in a good choice for our community to cleaning up our neighborhood, and support if we want our young people, beautifying our parks? They would both boys and girls to develop their certainly grow up to be caring and leadership and survival skills. They will responsible adults. Instead of also acquire ideal personality traits spending their time in Metro stations, such as courtesy, respect of their shopping centers, and playing video elders. Knowing all these benefits of games, they can be mobilized to use Scouting for the young, why is it then their excess energies for the good of that there are only a few families taking our community. advantage of the services offered by It is of great interest to see how devoted Scout volunteers? It seems many parents show up at the Scouts that everyone is opting to be involved Fun Night. It will serve as an indicator Check our low prices! only in basketball or hockey. What of how much interest our parents can could be the reasons for this lack of give to the development of their own interest? Do they know that there is a children. The more parents get variety of activities that boys and girls involved in Scouting, the better it will can learn? be for all of us for it will surely have a We urge parents to consider lasting impact on the improvement of finding out more about Scouting and our society in general, and of the family what it means to the world at large. If in particular. they become aware of how this As we all know, the modern movement spread around the world family is often dysfunctional because Likas $2.69 Sunsilk $3.99 and the reasons behind its popularity of the pressures of having both mother everywhere, perhaps more parents will and father work to earn a living. be interested in enrolling their children Childlren are often left to fend for with the Laging Handa Scout Group. themselves, or in the extreme, are often As we reflect on what is going spoiled and become stubborn. on around us, perhaps we can Parents become helpless and do not appreciate the fact that there is too seem to know where to turn. Scouting much violence, conflict, and wars in may offer an alternative to some several areas of the world. Do we ever families who are in this difficult wonder what each one of us can do to situation. There are resources make a difference? The vision of one available that can help, if only these Eskinol $3.99 Dried Banana Flower 99¢ man, 100 years ago in England, made parents will check out the services it possible to make this difference for offered by the Scouts organization. our young people thus enabling them We hope parents will heed our Store Hours: to contribute to the betterment of call to celebrate the centennial year of society. This man’s pioneering spirit Scouting by joining in the movement Monday to Friday - 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. lives on until this day. Lord Baden- for the sake of our children. Saturday-Sunday - 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Powell, was a 50-year-old retired army We hope to count you all and general when he founded Scouting, join us on Saturday, February 24, at and his revolutionary ideas inspired 3:30 p.m. at 6767 Cote des neiges. 514-733-8915 thousands of young people, from all You will be glad you did! parts of society, to get involved in Tangkilin ang sariling atin. activities that most had never Zenaida Kharroubi

The North American Filipino Star SUBSCRIPTION Name:______

Address:______4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse (5th Floor) Montreal, QC H3W 1X3 Tel.: 514-485-7861 Enquiries: [email protected] Columnists Advertising: [email protected] Telephone: Residence:______Office: ______Riza Esmeralda Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Lina V. Fernandez Lourdes Fabia Enclose a cheque or money order for: Dr. Victor Gavino Chief Editor & Publisher Entertainment News Prof. Isaac Goodine Sam Ferry Hilda T. Veloso Esther Stansfield Assistant Editor Community News Editor 1 year or 12 issues$28 2 years or 24 issues$45 Anna May Tappan News & Tourism Nida Verginom Butaran Alvin D. Veloso Bert Abiera Mary Joy Lizarondo Sales Representatives Founder Opinions, comments of writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect that of the management of Filcan Publications, Inc. www.filipinostar.org february 2007 The North American Filipino Star 3 Nigerian kidnappers release 24 Filipino hostages Emotional homecoming for February 13, 2006 country, to destabilize the 2007 general spoken for MEND since the group Filipino kidnap victims Nigerian kidnappers have released elections in the region." emerged in late 2005, has repeatedly February 17, 2007 all 24 Filipino seamen they had been Nigeria is due to hold elections in denied his group was involved in the Twenty-four Filipino seamen holding captive in the creeks of the oil- April that should mark the first abduction. He says a separate group recently released after being held producing Niger Delta since January democratic transition from one civilian was responsible and MEND does not captive at gunpoint for 24 days in 20, the men's employer, German government to the next in Africa's top share that group's objectives. Nigeria flew home to an emotional shipping firm Baco-Liner, said on oil producer. Activist sources in the region say reunion with loved ones. Tuesday. The Baco-Liner spokesman said the group who kidnapped the Filipinos Looking haggard after their ordeal The kidnappers said they had there were explosives on board the used to have links with Gbomo's but smiling and waving, the men were freed the men "on humanitarian cargo ship but these were destined for MEND about a year ago, but they had met by government officials and a grounds" without receiving any oil companies that use them for fallen out. MEND has sometimes throng of journalists after disembarking ransom, following the intervention of exploration and had nothing to do with worked with pre-existing militias whose from a commercial flight. local elders and authorities. Most politics. agendas are based on local issues. "We are very happy. Thank you abductions in the anarchic Niger Delta "We are not engaged in any Poverty, lawlessness and a very much President (Gloria) Arroyo," are resolved after money changes smuggling whatsoever," said the collapse in public services due to they said in unison to an explosion of hands. spokesman. rampant corruption among camera flashes. "The Nigerian authorities have government officials lie at the root of They were quickly taken to the handed the vessel and its crew to us in Divisions among rebels the problems in the Niger Delta, where presidential Malacanang palace in the Warri," a spokesman for the company the lines are blurred between political capital and tearfully reunited with family said, referring to the main city in the The kidnappers said they would take militancy and crime. and friends. western delta. unspecified "further actions" unless Most residents of the vast wetlands "I couldn't sleep. I was just crying He said the men were tired, but in Nigerian authorities met a series of region live without clean water, and crying," said Jocelyn Arcangel as good health. A replacement crew will demands including the release of two electricity, roads or functional clinics she waited at the palace for her be hired to sail the ship out of the Niger jailed leaders from the delta and the and this fuels resentment toward the husband, Roberto Arcangel, to arrive. Delta, he added. payment of compensation to local multibillion-dollar oil industry. "My sons don't want him to leave Another seven foreign hostages villages for oil spills. Attacks on oil facilities, anymore. It was very traumatic. We seized by different armed groups are The abduction of the 24 Filipinos kidnappings for ransom, smuggling of have not heard from them for a long still in captivity in the delta, where exposed divisions among rebel groups stolen oil, armed robberies and time and there are fears that they were violence against expatriates and in the delta. assaults on the security forces are all harmed." against the oil industry is on the rise. The kidnappers said they were common. Many fear the situation will The men declined to comment on The remaining hostages are two from the Movement for the worsen ahead of April's elections as negotiations that led to their freedom Italians, one Lebanese, one American, Emancipation of the Niger Delta armed thugs hired by politicians to on February 13, for fear of jeopardizing two Filipinos and one Frenchman. (MEND), whose attacks a year ago intimidate their opponents spring into the safety of two other Filipinos seized The kidnappers of the 24 Filipinos forced the closure of 500,000 barrels action. separately. Filipino diplomats are in said they had seized the Baco-Liner 2 per day in oil output, a fifth of Nigeria's a Nigeria working to free them. because it was "suspected to have capacity. That production has not been conveying arms and ammunition resumed. imported by top politicians in the But Jomo Gbomo, who has always See Page 18 HOMECOMING I made a different kind of New Year’s resolution … and it brought me the best year yet! ”

The holidays have come and gone and what is can’t really take the credit .I’ve never healed usually left is a New Years resolution on how to anyone of anything. What I do is make a specific make this year a healthier and better year. That spinal adjustment to remove the subluxation, all starts with making healthier choices. Albert and the body responds by healing itself. Einstein said “You cannot do the same thing Subluxation is at a pandemic because of our over and over and expect a different result”. If for lifestyle. Sitting is the major cause of any reason you are suffering from pain in any subluxation, an average person sits for 32 years part of your body, just maybe you have not taken .Sitting is as devastating on the spine as sugar is care of the problem. to the teeth.Subluxation also caused by stress, accidents, slips, falls and even the birthing There are so many people who have given up process. But we get tremendous results it’s as on their health, not knowing that there may be a simple as that. better way that what they’ve already tried. They need a second chance with their health, like I Many people of all ages come to see me with once had. I want to share with you a true story of their health problems .Such as … a patient that is still under my regular headaches, migraines, chronic pain, neck pain, chiropractic care. shoulder/arm pain, insomnia backaches, ear infections, asthma, allergies, numbness in limbs Last year Ralf came to my office after the ,fatigued ,depression, arthritis, carpel tunnel holidays. He had spent a week with his family in syndrome ,attention deficit disorder ,lack of the Caribbean and for a majority of the time concentration. Just to name a few. You don’t there, he spent on his back not able to move have to be in pain to get your spine checked due to debilitating back and neck pain. As well either. If you’re one of millions of people ,both of his knees were so swollen they looked suffering from pain and have not yet seen the like two balloons in the middle of his legs .He light at the end of the tunnel…. Then this offer is promised himself that as soon as he got home just for you! he would find the reason for his pain and fix it. That is when he scheduled his consultation with We are offering you a special price for your initial me. Ralf explained to me during that visit that consultation examination and x-rays if “He had too much water in his knee and that he necessary; normally $210.00 will be offered to needed to have it removed.” However, when I you at $45.00. ACT NOW this offer is only valid examined him I knew that the swelling was a for two weeks and for the first 18 callers. And protection mechanism for the subluxations that further care is very affordable and you’ll be were present in his lower back. Ralf understood happy to know that I have affordable family the underlying cause for his pain and agreed to plans. have an adjustment. One week later he was able to move around without pain. A few weeks later You can call Dr. Goel at DECARIE SQUARE his neighbor asked what he was doing that was FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC (located at 6900 so different because he looks so much healthier Decarie Blvd #340, Human Resources and happier! Ralf simply listened to his body. He Canada). took care of his subluxations so his body was Our phone number is: 514-344-6118. able to heal naturally. P.S When accompanied by the first I am So you see when you have subluxation, the also offering the second family member nerves are chocked and the natural energy the same examination for only $35. cannot flow properly to the rest of your body. Several times a day patients thank me for helping them with their health problems. But I www.filipinostar.org Scouting movement in the community Group will also be able to help the national and world audience. As our From Page 1 Scouts are: Claro Bermudez, Romeo adult volunteers and parents in terms preparations get underway, we’ll share Canadian youth. Please apply now Valenzuela, Danilo Corpuz, Richard of subsidizing the costs of our achievements and successes in all by calling 514-485-7861, attention of San Miguel (all members of APO) and membership fees and other activities, fields with the public. We’ll aim to bring Mrs. Zenaida Kharroubi, Group Nida Butaran. All of these people have particularly camping which is an Scouting to more young people and Commissioner. Parents are also urged been with Laging Handa since 2004 important part of Scouting. So far, the countries in the world and improve the to join the Group Committee in order to until the present time, except Mr. Group has been camping every quality and delivery of our programs. share the workload involved in the Corpuz and Ms. Butaran because of season since winter 2005. It is The 100th anniversary of Scouting may administration - secretarial-clerical their busy schedules. Mr. Corpuz required to have a minimum of four create among Scouts and former duties, fundraising solicitors, and other stayed for one year, Ms. Butaran camping trips in a year. Scouts a sense of belonging to a tasks necessary to make the group stayed for two years. Miss Anna May It is hoped that parents will take world-wide Movement (WOSM). What function more smoothly. Tappan joined the group last advantage of the opportunity being a great forum for them to communicate The Laging Handa Scouts Group September 2006. Some of the first offered by Laging Handa in developing with each other and establish or 0592 was first chartered during a Corn prospective volunteers backed out or the future leaders of the Filipino- reestablish contacts both nationally Roast sponsored by Gilmore College did not show any firm commitment for Canadian community. This year, being and internationally. This is the unity of on August 24, 2003 upon the a variety of reasons, some of them the Centennial Year of the Scouting World Scouting. suggestion of Col. Camilo Tiqui, a financial, others for lack of time. An movement, we should celebrate it by The Centenary is also an retired Philippine Airforce pilot who obstacle to recruiting more adults is being active in promoting the Scouting opportunity to obtain greater encouraged Mrs. Zenaida Kharroubi to the membership fee which has to be movement . It will encourage the recognition of our success in the field sponsor the formation of the first paid by each Scout volunteer. Laging Scout volunteers of Laging Handa if of non-formal education, in particular Filipino Scout group. Scouts Canada, Handa is therefore trying to solicit more people come to attend the Fun the work that we do towards promoting Quebec Council Commissioner Ross more sponsors in order to offer Night, which is designed to show a culture of peace throughout the Miller presented the crest to Consul volunteers and parents some financial examples of what the youth can learn world and our commitment to nature Medardo Macaraig at MacKenzie King assistance whenever possible. The from Scouting. and the environment. We will also use Park, signifying the approval of the first significant amount received was Background notes on the Scouts the occasion of the Centenary to charter to the First Filipino Scout solicited by Riza Esmeralda who Centennial Year procure more support for Scouting in Group to be named "Laging Handa approached Mr. Yuri Fatawho works The year 2007 will mark 100 years the future from parents, community 0592". Mr. Sterling Lambert, the then for the ICAO office in Montreal. He of Scouting worldwide. In 1907, Lord groups, authorities and the news Membership Development Repre- gave a donation of $700 last year. This Baden-Powell ran his experimental media. sentative and Michael Belanger, Area was used in buying uniforms for the camp, on Brownsea Island on the Who will celebrate? Commissioner, provided help and children and some Scouts South coast of England, for 20 young The year 2007 marks 100 years support in planning for the recruitment paraphernalia. Mr. Salvador Cabugao London boys from different social from the date that Scouting was of adult volunteers and children which also gave a cash donation to the backgrounds. founded. This Centenary belongs to only started the following year . A Laging Hand Scouts while they were By 2007 over 500,000,000 women every Scout from every WOSM country rechartering ceremony was held on participating in the GK walk for the and men from most of the world’s and territory. As such, all activities, September 8, 2004 when the then poor. This was used to buy snacks for countries and cultures will have projects and work done in the name of Ambassador Francisco Benedicto was the kids. Recently, the following people promised to live by the Scout Promise 2007 will involve all Scouts and take invested as an honorary member. Col. who received solicitation letters from and Law. place on a local, national, regional and Camilo Tiqui assisted by Area the Group Commissioner, Zenaida Our Centenary is an opportunity for international level. It is so important Commissioner Brent Hussey did the Kharroubi, last December 2005, sent in us to demonstrate the unique value of that this Centenary is promoted as a honors of placing the Scout their cheques, namely, Hon. Lawrence Scouting to the world and to celebrate celebration for all, and not just the date neckerchief on Ambassador Bergman, Borough Mayor Michael the achievements of 100 years of of the next World Scout Jamboree. Benedicto. Other dignitaries present Applebaum and Councilor Marvin Scouting. The International Jamboree at the ceremony were Borough Mayor Rotrand. A thank you letter is on the It’s a time to celebrate the future of and Canadian Jamboree are the major Michael Applebaum, Mr. Marc Leiter way to them. Mrs. Kharroubi also Scouting and look to how we can world and national events included in who represented Hon. Irwin Cotler, the approached Mr. Sly El-Hachem, the improve it to meet the needs of even the Centenary, but we will promote former Secretary of Justice and bank manager of the Scotiabank more young people, their families and 2007 as a national and worldwide Attorney General during the Liberal branch at 4681 Van Horne. She was communities worldwide. celebration. We have already begun government, Honorary Consul delighted to receive a quick positive Our Centenary year also marks the our planning and developing to ensure Salvador Cabugao, School response. A cheque will be forwarded 150th anniversary of the birth of our that 2007 is a resounding success. Commissioner Khokom Maniruz- to Scouts Canada on behalf of Laging founder, Lord Robert Baden-Powell, When should we start? zaman, Prof. Isaac Goodine who Handa and will be earmarked for the who was born on February 22, 1857. The 2007 Resolution in delivered the inspirational message, Scouts Fun Night this coming Why should we mark the Centenary? Thessaloniki recognized the need to and other Filipino community leaders. Saturday, February 24, at 3:30 p.m In 2007, Scouting worldwide plan well in advance for the maximum To celebrate Independence Day in However, more donors are needed in celebrates its Centenary. As they have benefit. The worldwide Centenary 2005, Laging Handa held a tree order to send at least six members to done for one hundred years, millions project for all National Scouting planting ceremony in front of the the Scout Jamboree being held in of Scouts will help to change the world Organizations, entitled Gifts for Peace, monument to Dr. Jose Rizal. It was Camp Tamaracouta, Quebec this for good. What a great opportunity for began in 2005. also during this time that Borough summer which will cost around $5000. us to demonstrate the value of In Canada, planning is already Mayor Michael Applebaum was It would be a rare experience for the Scouting to the world. well underway at a national level, and invested as an honorary member. The youth to participate in this jamboree as Not only will we celebrate the many groups will begin their own plans Group also joined the first GK walk in it is the centennial year of Scouting. achievements of the past; but we’ll at the start of the 2006/2007 Scouting Montreal on September 9, 2005. Most of the Scout leaders spend plan a course for the future year. It will be amazing to see the Although there were many adult their own money in buying food and development of Scouting. We’ll unique ways each group plans to volunteers who filed applications with materials for the weekly activities. actively seek to offer better and bigger celebrate as they set their imaginations Scouts Canada and received police Some parents help out by bringing Scouting programs worldwide. There free. The year 2007 will truly be a clearances, not all of them confirmed additional food for snacks. If more will be a lot happening in the next year! golden year for Scouting. a their appointments. The only sponsors are willing to help support a The Centenary provides us with an volunteers who decided to pioneer the worthy cause, Laging Handa Scout opportunity to promote Scouting to a F. FARHAT LUNETTERIE • Guess 10% off • Easy-Clip For Students • Versace & Seniors • and many more designer rands Eye examination on site Bring this ad to get 10% discount. 5540 Cote des Neiges (cor. St. Kevin) 514-340-0135 1274 Mount Royal East 514-527-8201

www.filipinostar.org february 2007 The North American Filipino Star 5 Filipino Family chosen to represent Northwest Territory to commemorate 60th anniversary of Canadian citizenship Ottawa, February 16, 2007 chosen to represent eachprovince and recent Canadian citizens in this building as Canada continues to be a place where The Honorable Diane Finley, minister of terriroty of Canada took their oath of well as to the first ceremony of Canadian immigrants find reasons to hop for their Citizenship and Immigration, welcomed citizenship in the ceremony held at the citizenship which took place in 1947,” future.” today 17 families who are new Canadian Supreme Court, at the same as those declared the Chief Justice Benevely This 60th anniversary of citizens, representing each province and being held in other places around the McLachlin “The ceremony today marks a citizenship will continue to be celebrated territories, on the occasion of a swearing in country to commemorate the six decades great step for our new citizens as well as throughout the year. 2007. ceremony for a special commemoration of Canadian citizenship. Mr. Gilbert for our country. We must all be proud that which was held at the Supreme Court of Pangilinan arrived from Pampanga, Canada. The ceremony marked the 60th Philippines with his family on July 20, 2001 anniversary of Canadian citizenship. and chose to settle down in the Northwest Among the dignitaries present were Her Territory. He is an electronics engineer Excellency, the Very Honorable Michaelle and works for a telecommunication Jean, governor-general of Canada, the company. Very Honorable Beverly McLachlin, the Canadian citizenship was Chief Judge of the Supreme Court and the established legally and oficially on January chief principal judge of Citizenship, Michel 1, 1947, when the first citizenship law was Simard. enacted. Until then, persons who lived in “I am very proud to participate in Canada were considered British subjects this commemoration of the 60th residing in Canada. anniversary. Our Canadian values make “I arrived very young in Canada, us an example for the planet,” said Minister in search of liberty and hope, and this is Finley. “Each day, we show that our why the value of Canadian citizenship for numerous differences should not divide me is profoundly personal,” declared the us. A society that can be diversified and governor general, Michaëlle Jean, to the harmonious. Each time that we decide to people pressent at the ceremony. “Now, become a Canadian citizen, it means to that each one of you is entering the big say that this country is formidable.” Canadian fmaily, I hope that you will tkae In 2006, 259 267 people took the an active part in the permanent task of edifying our country.” oath of Canadian citizenship. Today, 17 Governor General Michaëlle Jean and the Supreme Court Justice Beverly McLachlin listen “I am honored to welcome some families, among them a Filipino family, intently to the speech of Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Diane Finley.

www.filipinostar.org 6 The North American Filipino Star february 2007 Viva Kay Sr. Santo Nino! Aklan Association of Montreal Celebrates 6th Annual Ati-Atihan Festival By Jennifer Fernandez drummers and other percussionists beat Painted faces, colourful costumes out an infectious rhythm that no one could and elaborate headdresses were plentiful resist. The dance floor quickly filled up as the Aklan Association of Montreal held with costumed Aklanons and guests, their 6th Annual Ati-Atihan Festival. Over parading and dancing to the beat of the five hundred association members and drums. guests joined in the merriment at St. The party continued long into the Kevin’s in Cote-des-Neiges, Saturday, night, with music, dancing, raffles and January 27th, to honour Santo Nino. more parading to the drums. Although it The celebration began with a mass at was only one night, instead of the week 5pm. Guests then moved downstairs, long festival like in Aklan, it truly captured where they were treated to the sight of a the spirit and revelry of any of the Ati- brightly decorated hall, with picture Atihan festivals back home. displays of past Montreal Ati-Atihan festivals and videos of the 2006 Ati-Atihan Brief History of the Ati-Atihan from Aklan. The Ati-Atihan festival originated on the The evening festivities started with the island of Panay, home of the Ati, who have Welcome Address from outgoing dark skin and curly hair. In the 13th president, Winston Derequito. He century, the Atis sold land to a group of dedicated the evening’s celebration to his people from Borneo, who later became wife, Emily, who had worked hard on known as the Maraynon. A friendship festivals in the past. She passed away last grew between these two groups, after a Guests celebrate the 2007 Ati-Atihan, parading to the rhythm of the drums. May. particularly bad harvest for the Atis. The invocation was given by Fr. Having no food one year, they came down Francisco Alvarez. Fr. Artemio Calaycay to visit the new island settlers and ask for A CD of Antique Filipino Songs was also on hand to perform the blessing food. The Atis danced and sang to show Called KUNDIMAN over the food. Guests then served their gratitude. This visit grew into an themselves to a buffet dinner of traditional annual celebration. The Maraynon By Fe De Castro-Melo Filipino dishes. As they dined, an eventually began painting their faces with Soprano impressive demonstration was put on by black soot, in honour of the Atis, and the martial arts students from the Cacoy joined in the dancing and singing. The 1. Anak ng Dalita 7. Basta’t Mahal Kita Doce Pares World Federation, followed by festival became a feast day for the Santo 2. Ang Mutya 8. Gaano Ko Ikaw Kamahal a belly dance by the young and talented Nino, after the Spanish arrived and 3. Dahil Sa Isang Bulaklak 9. Sa Libis Ng Nayon Sacha Nicole Almanon Tamayo. Sacha Ferdinand Magellan presented the Santo 4. Pakiusap 10. Nasaan Ka Irog was one of the finalists in the Little Miss Nino to the Queen of Cebu. Since then, 5. Sa Kabukiran 11. Sapagkat Kami Ay Tao Lamang Philbecan 2006 Beauty Pageant. the Ati-Atihan has become the largest and 6. Mutya ng Pasig 12. Madaling Araw The entertainment was followed by wildest of the Philippine fiestas. the induction of the officers, by Fely Rosales Carino. Larry Panado, president To order: Please send payment of $12.50 to: elect, gave his acceptance speech, Learn to speak French and build your Marc P. Melo Productions especially thanking his family for their future in Quebec support. The Turn Over of the “Saruk” was Enroll now at Gilmore College 4604 Kingswalk 1A, Rolling Meadows, Il 60008 performed and, with the words “Viva Kay Call 514-485-7861 Tel.: 1-847-705-9497 E-Mail: [email protected] Sr. Santo Nino!”, the parade began. The GGiillmmoorree IInntteerrnnaattiioonnaall CCoolllleeggee are pleased to invite you to the “Writers Helping Writers” aanndd tthhee AAccaaddeemmyy ooff LLeetttteerrss workshop inter-active, multi-cultural, motivational Your ideas should not remain locked up in your head - find a way to express them and feel fulfilled by doing so. This workshop will help you get started easily in the most interesting way. Find out the secret by attending this unique workshop which will start soon.

Who should attend: What they say about writing: People from all walks of life, fields There’s only one way to learn to write - read! and occupations - nurses, doctors, Every person who has the ability to read can learn how to architects, engineers, clerks, write. secretaries, teachers, students - What do writers do? They write. anyone who wants to live a fuller What do good writers do? They write and re-write. life. What do excellent writers do? They write, re-write, re-write, re-write until they get it “right.” Workshop Leaders Proof of Attendance: Why you should attend: An attractive certificate and tax receipt will be given at the Everyone has to write, whether you end of the workshop. earn your living by writing or Proceedings will be videotaped. You may purchase a working for yourself or others, your copy for your future reference. ability to express yourself in English NOTE: is absolutely essential. Since English has become the language In addition to establishing a writers’ network, a public of business around the world, speaking course will be a follow-up to this workshop. mastering the art of writing and speaking is the key to your success Schedule: Isaac T. Goodine Zenaida F. Kharroubi in your personal and professional Friday - 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. BsC., B.Ed. C. Eng. B.A. English, M.A. Ed. Studies life. International Speaker & Author Diploma in Education, TESL Saturday & Saturday - 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. “Leaders Leding Leaders” Founder & Director-General Tuition Fee: Resource Person, Transparency Gilmore College Gilmore International College International, Fomrer Principal, Editor & Publisher, 4950 Queen Mary Rd. Penthouse 2 1/2 days seminar for the low rate of $495 including Director of Schools & Colleges, North American Filipino Star Montreal, QC H3W 1X3 taxes and materials. Human Resources Development Group Commissioner, Scouts Specialist, Consultant, World Bank Canada, Quebec Council www.gilmorecollege.com Call 514-485-7861 to register

www.filipinostar.org february 2007 The North American Filipino Star 7 and making his factory safe. Owen not having meetings in COOPERATIVE believed in putting his workers in a pubs/beerhouses (to avoid the good environment with access to temptation of drinking profits). MOVEMENT education for themselves and their The First Cooperatives children. These ideas were put into The earliest cooperatives effect successfully in the cotton mills of appeared in Europe in the late 18th Bigger than what New Lanark, Scotland. It was here that and 19th centuries, during the the first co-operative store was opened Industrial Revolution. As people you think where the workers themselves owned moved from farms into the growing and ran. Spurred by the success of cities, they had to rely on stores to this, he had the idea of forming feed their families because they could "villages of co-operation" where no longer grow their own food. By Jerry Estrada workers would drag themselves out of Working people had very little control poverty by growing their own food, over the quality of their food or living Philippine Correspondent making their own clothes and conditions. Those with money gained ultimately becoming self-governing. He more and more power over those Editor’s Note: Mr. Estrada is a coop volunteer worker/leader in the tried to form such communities in without. Early co-ops were set up as a Philippines and presently working with Atty. Mordino R. Cua Orbiston in Scotland and in New way to protect the interests of the less Harmony, Indiana in the United States powerful members of society - (Cooperatives Man of Asia 2004, awarded in Seoul, Korea). of America, but both communities workers, consumers, farmers, and Together, they are continually organizing cooperatives and at the failed. producers. same time writing Atty. Cua’s books on cooperatives entitled: “My Dr. William King (1786–1865), The Rochdale Equitable Pioneers Cooperative Journey (53 years), An Autobiography” and “How the England. Society Cooperative Code of the Philippines (RA 6938) and the He was a physician and In 1843, a few poor weaver- philanthropist from Brighton. Although workers in the textile mills of Rochdale, Cooperative Development Authority Law (RA 6939) were crafted Owen inspired the co-operative England went on strike. When the by the Cooperative Movement in the Philippines.” Congressman movement, Dr. King took his ideas and strike failed, the mill workers began to Guillermo P. Cua, the incumbent Co-op Representative in the made them more workable and look for other ways to improve their Philippine Congress, is the son of Atty. Cua. practical. King believed in starting lives. Instead of calling for another small, and realized that the working strike or asking charitable groups for The Beginnings, Nature, Principles and classes would need to set up co- help, some of these people decided to operatives for themselves, so he saw take control of one of the most Practices of Economic Cooperation his role as one of instruction. He immediate and pressing areas of their founded a monthly periodical lives. The Early Origins of Cooperatives depressed economic conditions (newspaper) called The Cooperator, At that time, consumers were Cooperative efforts have brought forth by industrialization, some the first edition of which appeared on frustrated and dissatisfied by the occurred throughout history. Since people began to form cooperative May 1, 1828. The Cooperator had a abuses of the merchants and early man cooperated with others to businesses to meet their needs. wide circulation and a great influence storeowners in their community, many help kill large animals for survival, The Prime Movers of Cooperativism: in the emerging movement. The paper of whom adulterated products to people have been cooperating to Robert Owen (1771–1858), Great served to educate and unify otherwise increase their profits. In many cases, achieve objectives that they could not Britain. scattered groups. workers' wages were paid in company reach if they acted individually. Fathered the cooperative King's articles in the paper "chits" - credit that could only be used Cooperation has emerged throughout movement. A factory manager and one gave the movement some at the company's stores. The average the world. of the partners of the Chorlton Twist philosophical and practical basis that it consumer had very few choices and Ancient records show that Babylonians Company at Manchester, who made had lacked before. This gave a mixture little control. practiced cooperative farming and that his fortune in the cotton trade, saw that of co-operative philosophy and They believed they needed the Chinese developed savings and people needed help. He wanted to give practical advice about running a shop their own food store as an alternative to loan associations similar to those in the people in his factory better lives. He using cooperative principles. King the company store. Twenty-eight (28) use today. In response to the helped them by paying higher wages advised people not to cut themselves people joined together and formed a off from society, but rather to form a consumer cooperative known as the society within a society, and to start Rochdale Equitable Pioneers Society. with a shop because, "We must go to a Groups of these people began shop every day to buy food and experimenting with various methods of necessaries - why then should we not providing for their needs themselves. go to our own shop?" He proposed They decided to pool their money. After sensible rules, such as having a weekly account audit, having 3 trustees, and See Page 19 Cooperatives

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They also do not percent of the nation’s diesel consumption resources, recycling, source reduction and contribute to global warming, since they with biodiesel would require diverting pollution control to ensure cleaner air and only emit back to the environment the approximately 60 percent of today’s soy water and to reduce landfill wastes,” but carbon dioxide (CO2) that their source crops to biodiesel production,” says does not elaborate on specific actions it plants absorbed out of the atmosphere in Matthew Brown, an energy consultant and takes. McDonald’s makes similar general the first place. former energy program director at the statements and claims to be “actively And unlike other forms of renewable National Conference of State Legislatures. pursuing the conversion of used cooking energy (like hydrogen, solar or wind), “That’s bad news for tofu lovers.” oil into biofuels for transportation vehicles, biofuels are easy for people and Another dark cloud looming over heating, and other purposes,” and businesses to transition to without special biofuels is whether producing them pursuing various in-store paper, cardboard, apparatus or a change in vehicle or home actually requires more energy than they delivery container and pallet recycling heating infrastructure--you can just fill your can generate. After factoring in the programs in Australia, Sweden, Japan and existing car, truck or home oil tank with it. energy needed to grow crops and then Britain. In Canada the company claims to Those looking to replace gasoline with convert them into biofuels, Cornell be the “largest user of recycled paper in ethanol in their car, however, must have a University researcher David Pimental Earth Talk our industry” for trays, boxes, carry out “flex-fuel” model that can run on either fuel. concludes that the numbers just don’t Dear EarthTalk: What are the fast-food bags and drink holders. Otherwise, most regular diesel engines add up. His 2005 study found that Some smaller fast food chains have can handle biodiesel as readily as regular chains doing to cut back on--or at least producing ethanol from corn required garnered accolades for their recycling diesel. recycle--the huge amount of paper, plastic 29 percent more energy than the end efforts. Arizona-based eegee’s, for Despite the upsides, however, experts and foam they use daily? Are there any product itself is capable of generating. instance, earned an Administrator’s Award point out that biofuels are far from a cure laws or regulations to force them to be He found similarly troubling numbers from the U.S. Environmental Protection good environmental citizens? in making biodiesel from soybeans. Agency for recycling all paper, cardboard -- Carol Endres, Stroud Township, PA “There is just no energy benefit to and polystyrene across its 21-store chain. Currently there are no federal laws or using plant biomass for liquid fuel,” Besides the positive attention it has regulations in the U.S. specifically aimed at says Pimentel. generated, the company’s recycling effort getting fast food chains to reduce, reuse or There is no one quick-fix for also saves it money in garbage disposal recycle their waste. Businesses of all kinds weaning ourselves off of fossil fuels fees every month. must always obey local laws pertaining to and the future will likely see a Despite such efforts, though, the fast what must be recycled versus what can be combination of sources--from wind and food industry is still a large generator of discarded. And a small number of cities ocean currents to hydrogen, solar and, waste. Some communities are responding and towns have local laws specifically yes, some use of biofuels--powering by passing local regulations requiring designed to force businesses to do the our energy needs. The “elephant in the recycling where applicable. Seattle, living room,” however, that is often Washington, for example, passed an ignored when considering energy ordinance in 2005 prohibiting businesses options is the hard reality that we must (all businesses, not just restaurants) from A major hurdle for biofuels is the challenge reduce our consumption, not just disposing of recyclable paper or of growing enough crops to meet demand, replace it with something else. Indeed, cardboard, though violators only pay a something skeptics say might well require conservation is probably the largest nominal $50 fine. converting just about all of the world’s single “alternative fuel” available to us. Perhaps policymakers in the U.S. and remaining forests and open spaces over to CONTACTS: elsewhere could take a lead from Taiwan, agricultural land. (Getty Images) Ecology Center Biofuel Fact sheet, which since 2004 has required its 600 fast- www.ecologycenter.org/factsheets/biodiesel. food restaurants, including McDonald’s, for our addiction to petroleum. A wholesale html; Earth911 Energy Conservatio, factsheet Burger King and KFC, to maintain facilities societal shift from gasoline to biofuels, www.earth911.org/master.asp?s=lib&a=Ene for proper disposal of recyclables by given the number of gas-only cars already rgy/energy.asp. customers. Diners are obliged to deposit on the road and the lack of ethanol or GOT AN ENVIRONMENTAL QUESTION? their garbage in four separate containers biodiesel pumps at existing filling stations, Send it to: EarthTalk, c/o E/The for leftover food, recyclable paper, regular would take some time. Environmental Magazine, P.O. Box 5098, North America's fast food industry is a huge waste and liquids. “Customers only have to Another major hurdle for widespread Westport, CT 06881; submit it at: generator of waste. Some strides have spend under a minute to finish the trash- adoption of biofuels is the challenge of www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/thisweek/, or been made in recycling and reducing classification assignment,” said growing enough crops to meet demand, e-mail: [email protected]. Read packaging and serving materials, but it has environmental protection administrator Hau something skeptics say might well require past columns at: all been voluntary and usually only under Lung-bin in announcing the program. converting just about all of the world’s www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/archives.php. intense pressure from environmental Restaurants that don’t comply face fines of remaining forests and open spaces over to groups. (Getty Images) up to $8,700 (U.S.). RESTAURANT CONTACTS: eegee’s, www.eegees.com; right thing, but they are few and far Taipei Times, “Restaurants set the new LA MAISON NEW KUM MON between. recycling trend,” There have been some strides in the www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archive 5047 Henri Bourassa Est fast food business with regard to 6565 Cote des Neiges, Montreal, s/2004/01/02/2003086025. Montréal, QC H1G 2S1 packaging materials and waste reduction, QC (Corner Appleton) but it has all been voluntary and usually Tel.: (514) 322-3133, 322-3130 Dear EarthTalk: What are the environmental under pressure from green groups. pros and cons of switching to plant-based McDonald’s made headlines back in 1989 Bean Curd Seafood Soup Fish Maw Seafood Soup “bio-fuels” to reduce our reliance on oil? when, at the urging of environmentalists, it 1/2 Crispy Chicken Baked Lobster with Ginger --Jim Dand, Somerville, MA switched its hamburger packaging from Salt and Pepper Pork Loin Seafood with Chinese There are many eco-benefits to non-recyclable Styrofoam to recyclable Stuffed Bean Curd with replacing oil with bio-fuels like ethanol and Broccoli paper wraps and cardboard boxes. The Shrimps biodiesel. For one, since such fuels are Saltand Pepper Cuttle Fish company also replaced its bleached paper derived from agricultural crops, they are Sauted Seasonal Vegetables carryout bags with unbleached bags and Fried Sea Bass Fish inherently renewable--a¬nd our own Steamed Rice made other green-friendly packaging Steamed Rice farmers typically produce them $37.95 advances. $58.95 domestically, reducing our dependence on 4 Persons Both McDonald’s and PepsiCo (owner unstable foreign sources of oil. Additionally, 4 Persons of KFC and Taco Bell) have crafted internal ethanol and biodiesel emit less particulate policies to address environmental Bean Curd Soup Fish maw seafood soup 1/2 Crispy Chicken 2 Baked Lobsters with Ginger Shrimp Cake with Chinese Seafood with Eggplant in Hot Pot Need Money? Broccoli Stuffed Bean Curd with Sweet and Sour Pork Shrimp Do you have a full time job? 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www.filipinostar.org february 2007 The North American Filipino Star 9 Mass swamp wedding marks Valentine's Day in Palawan February 14, 2007 embarrassed to approach officials to Standing ankle-deep in swamp arrange a traditional wedding because mud, couples have wed in an unusual he is illiterate and could not sign the Philippine Cuisine Valentines Day' ceremony on this marriage license. western Philippine island, that marked "It would be embarrassing if they their commitment to the environment. passed away without getting married. At The 100 barefoot couples, dressed least now we know that their union * 1/2 cup vinegar in white, stood in the swamp facing the would be recognized in heaven," said Beef Morcon Recipe * 2 teaspoon salt sea and exchanged vows in a ceremony their daughter Leonora Apolinario, 58, who witnessed the mass wedding along * 2 cups of water officiated by the city mayor. Estimated cooking time: 2 to 3 hours. with her daughter and some 3,000 other * 2 meters thread or string (for "You will be an example of true love not just to your partner but to the guests. tying) environment," Mayor Edward Hagedorn Josephine Rodriguez, 27, wearing a said in a short speech after marrying the dress she borrowed from her partner's Beef Morcon Cooking Instructions: mostly poor couples from Palawan aunt, said she was thankful for the island's capital of Puerto Princesa. ceremony as she and her construction * Spread and stretch the sliced The official ceremony was free of worker husband could not afford a beef on your working table. * Arrange the filling on the sliced beef: sausage strips, cheese strips, sliced eggs, pork fat and some ground liver. * Roll the sliced beef with all the filling inside and secure with a thread or string. * Repeat the procedure for the two remaining beef slices. * On a pot, place the beef rolls and put the water, the remaining ground liver, grated cheese, chopped onions, bay leaves, ground black pepper and salt. * Cover the pot and bring to a boil. Simmer for one hour. Newly-wed couples walk to the shore passed new mangrove saplings they planted in the swamp * Add the vinegar and continue Morcon Ingredients: after a mass wedding to mark Valentine's Day on the western Philippine island of Palawan. to simmer of another hour or until beef * 1 kilo beef, sliced 1/4 inch thick charge for the couples in exchange for private one. "Maybe later when we have is tender. (3 pcs.) planting mangrove saplings in the money we can have a private wedding," * Slice the beef morcon, * 1/4 kilo ground beef liver swamp and helping further to protect said the mother-of-one who spent most arrange on a platter and top with the * 200 grams sliced sausages or their island. of the ceremony trying to keep her dress sauce/ gravy poured on top. ham This strange combination of out of the mud. She said she understood * 200 grams pork fat (cut is environmentalism, romance and aid to the importance of the mangrove swamp, Cooking Tips: strips) the poor has become an annual event in which serves as a nursery and habitat for * 3 hard boiled eggs, sliced Puerto Princesa which has been pushing small fish and anchors the fragile soil on * A spoon or two of flour can be * 100 grams cheddar cheese in an image of cleanliness and ecological the shore to prevent erosion. added to water to thicken the sauce. strips activism to attract tourists to Palawan. "It's a lot of fun. And this is good * Instead of boiling in a pot, you * 100 grams grated cheddar For seventy-two year old farmer because this is where the smaller fish can use a pressure cooker for faster can live," she told AFP. cheese Protacio de Ocampo, the free ceremony cooking. Afterwards the newlyweds * 2 onions, chopped was a chance to make official his * Optional: Garnish with olives relationship with 67-year-old partner celebrated with wedding cake and a * 5 bay leaf (laurel) before serving. Teofela Apolinario. shoreline banquet of omelets and fried * 1/2 teaspoon of ground black The pair have been together since noodles, courtesy of the city pepper 1958 but de Ocampo has been too government. a The North American Filipino Star Classified Ads ADVERTISING BUSINESS FOR SALE DRIVING RESTAURANT First 3 lines Pizza restaurant on Van Horne PEARL OF MANILA Quebec certified driving instructor 5839 DECARIE BOULEVARD $1.50 per extra line 9.99 Avenue, excellent potential, (maximum 4 words a line, font size 10) with 11 years experience in giving (NEAR BOURRET) attractive location, well- driving lessons. Exam car TEL.: (514) 344-3670 Classified Advertising- cheapest way to equipped, reasonable price available Buffet Friday 5 to 9 p.m. advertise! 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town. A trip to Dalitiwan River, located TOURISM in Botocan, Majayjay, is an exciting adventure because the terrain is rugged, as mountain lands go, and the LAGUNAcool water or river gushes through the rocks and boulders along the PROVINCE watercourse in sweeping currents. The mystical Mt. Makiling in Los Baños is Resort Province of the Philippines an inactive volcano, rising to about 1,109 meters above sea level. It is Laguna,is a haven of fresh and indeed endowed with nature’s beauty, pristine bodies of water such as hot making it ideal for all types of nature springs, lakes, and waterfalls. Most tripping, from trekking to bird and notable is Pagsanjan Falls, formerly butterfly watching and even camping. called Magdapio Falls, referred to as Laguna is not only endowed with “shooting rapids.” It is found in Cavinti, natural wonders. It also plays an starting from Pagsanjan town. Another important role in the country’s history is Lake Caliraya, which is located as the birthplace of Dr. Jose Rizal, the between Cavinti and Lumban. The country’s national hero, whose infancy strong mountain breeze that blows and early manhood were spent in the from the Sierra Madre Mountain towns of Calamba and Biñan. A Ranges and the distant Mount number of churches of Spanish- Banahaw makes the lake an ideal influenced architecture in intricate place for aqua sports like wind surfing, Romanesque and Baroque design, Buruwisan Falls in Famy Sinoloan, Laguna water skiing, sailing as well as game mostly restored to their original fishing. Approaching the province is elegance, are also found in the one of the most pleasant 1 ½ hour drive province. in all of Luzon. The province is one huge Innumerable hot springs abound in showcase of Southern Tagalog the province, including the famous craftsmanship. The town of Paete is Hidden Valley Springs which is famous for its woodcarvings, papier located in a secluded part of Alaminos mache, and handmade paper

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

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

Hidden Valley Springs, a popular family outting The Nagcarlan Church was built during the mid & picnic spot 1800s, and is one of Nagcarlan's historical structures. The other famous structure in town Learn French is the Underground Cemetery. the fast and easy way Register now at

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The province owes its name to this body of water that forms its northern boundary which, in turn, was named after the first provincial capital, the town of Bay. Laguna de Bay is known to be Southeast Asia’s largest fresh water lake. It stays pristine throughout the year as the area is blessed with regular rain showers. Built in the 18th century by the Franciscan Missionaries, the Underground Cemetery is enclosed by a circular structure. A red-tiled walk leads straight to the small chapel, where an altar-like structure is located. The tombstones are embedded on the brick walls of the cemetery and the basement. At the Hours: crypt of the cemetery, is where the local Katipuneros, plotted against Spanish rule. Mon.-Tues. Wed. 8 AM-5 PM Thursday -Friday 8 AM-9 PM Saturday 8 AM-5 PM Closed on Sundays.

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www.filipinostar.org 12 The North American Filipino Star february 2007

Induction of Officers (left to right): Ati-Atihan Association Larry Panado (President), Chrstopher Bautista (Sgt. at Arms), Jolly Reyes (Vice-President), Alice Arceno- Panado (Secretary), Mary Anne Advincula (Assistant Secretary), Fely Rosales Carino - (Administered the oath), Marlon Candolita (Assistant Treasurer), Haydee Trinidad (Treasurer), Rando Ruance (Sgt. at Arms), Jimmy Bautista, Sr. (PRO), Jimmy Bautista, Jr. (Business Manager), Mary Anne Bautista, James Sheldon Bautista (front) Not in Picture:Roque Mayor, Jr. (Auditor), Vicente Tafalla, Joel Reyes & Benjo Reyes (Sgt. at Arms)

The Pangilinan family poses with Hon. Diane Finley, Minister of Citizenship and Sponsor: Scotiabank Immigration, Supreme Court Chief Justice Beverly McLachlin, Feb. 16, 2007.

www.filipinostar.org february 2007 The North American Filipino Star 13

www.filipinostar.org 14 The North American Filipino Star february 2007 confession has something to do with win the Olivier Award as Best Actress in his reported "secret romance" (some a Musical. In 1991 she reprised her say it's an open secret) with the Asia's performance on Broadway, again Songbird, Regine Velasquez. The two earning rave reviews and winning the "best of friends" were caught on Tony Award as Best Actress in a television hugging during the Cheers to Musical, along with Best Actress '07 New Year countdown of GMA-7 at honors from the Drama Desk and the Rajah Sulayman Park along Roxas Outer Critics' Circle. She returned to Blvd. in Manila. In an interview Ogie Broadway in 2002, starring in the explained that it was just a "friendly" revival of Rodgers & Hammerstein's hug. There are speculations that Ogie's Flower Drum Song. a marriage to Australian Michelle van Eimeren is on the rocks. Michelle and Angel & Oyo Is Ogie Regine’s mystery lover? her two daughters by Ogie live in Sydney. Regine stoked the fire of call it quits controversy when she declared late last year that she has a boyfriend of four years, whom she called George. She denied Ogie is her secret boyfriend but Ogie later volunteered that he is the George being referred to by Regine. Regine topbilled in a series of concerts in January at Klownz Angeles in Pampanga, with Ogie Alcasid as her special guest. In December she started shooting a movie with Piolo Pascual, tentatively titled 'Fallin', a co-production of Viva Films and Star Cinema and directed by Joyce Bernal. a Lea Returns to Broadway

Angel Locsin dropped a bombshell with her admission that she and boyfriend Oyo Boy Sotto have broken Will Ogie Alcasid finally sing? The would make an admission about up during the Christmas holidays after talented composer-singer-comedian something private or personal. But barely two years of going steady. She has promised to make a "surprise" even without any clue, showbiz confirmed the separation in an announcement in June when he said insiders believe Ogie's forthcoming interview with Butch Francisco on Startalk last Dec. 28. “Cool-off ba?” asked Butch. A teary-eyed Angel shook her head, then Butch asked, “Tapos na nga ba?” Angel nodded and quipped, “Ang hirap sagutin.” According to speculations, there are two possible reasons for the break-up. First, Oyo is Lea Salonga will return to allegedly “getting along fine” with Bing Broadway as Fantine in Cameron Loyzaga, estranged wife of Janno Mackintosh's new production of Les Gibbs. But Bing dismissed the rumor. Misérables beginning March 6 at The "They are barking at the wrong tree. . . Broadhurst Theatre. Lea played Pareho ko silang kaibigan kaya Eponine in 1993 in the original nalungkot ako nang malaman ko na Broadway run of Les Misérables. Due totoo na palang nag-break sila." She to strong box-office and enthusiastic said she considers Oyo as a "kid audiences, Les Miz recently brother" because "matagal na kaming announced an extension through at magkabarkada . . . At 36 [years old], least the summer of 2007, and Lea will tita na ako ni Oyo who's only 22. Kaya stay with the production through the para pag-isipan ako na girlfriend niya . entire period. . ." Lea, who has been staying in the The second reason for the break- Philippines since giving birth last May up is the love angle in the team-up of 16 to firstborn Nicole Beverly, is Angel and Robin Padilla in the new bringing her daughter to the US. Even if GMA-7 show Asian Treasures. But she’s already a proven Broadway Angel assured "Oyo has nothing to be talent, still Lea had to audition for the jealous of Robin," adding that her ex- role of Fantine in April last year. She boyfriend trusts her. insiders say the was eight months pregnant then when real reason for the break-up is the lack she sang for composer Claude-Michel of time for each other, especially on the Schönberg, who was the same man part of Angel, who is one of the most in- who tested her for the role of Kim, demand actresses today. Lately she heroine of “Miss Saigon,” in 1988. Lea, has been frequently traveling for her who is turning 36 on Feb. 22, new TV show with Robin. catapulted to international stage Angel and Oyo had planned to leave stardom when she was chosen to star for Bantayan Island in Cebu on Dec. 26 as Kim in the 1989 London world for a brief vacation but it never pushed premiere of Boublil and Schonberg's through. Miss Saigon, produced by Cameron As of press time, Angel and Oyo have Mackintosh. Only 17 at the time, Lea not issued any more information about received critical acclaim and went on to their break-up. a www.filipinostar.org february 2007 The North American Filipino Star 15 Are KC and TV Director now an Item? Bossing’s playboy days are numbered

Left to right: Tito, Vic & Joey Avid showbiz observers believe tight-lipped Romeo has suddenly that Vic "Bossing" Sotto has finally met become very open about his feelings his match - for the second time -- in Eat for his current girlfriend. In an interview Bulaga co-host Pia Guanio. Vic, who with Yes! Magazine, Bossing has been one of showbiz's most unabashedly and uncharacteristically First, KC Concepcion-Pangilinan Bianca and Lino had a lover’s quarrel eligible bachelors since the break-up of declared, "Kung hindi rin lang siya ang and TV director Lino Cayetano were after Bianca joined the reality TV show his marriage to Dina Bonnevie, had mapapangasawa ko, hindi na ako reported to be just friends. Then there Pinoy Big Brother, where she became been romantically involved with a mag-aasawa." The lovebirds seem so were rumors that they were dating. extra close to PBB housemate Zanjoe number of his co-hosts in the popular sure of each other that the altar date is Latest reports say the two are now an Marudo. But after Bianca left the PBB noontime TV show, including Coney just a matter of time, say item! house, she cut all ties with Zanjoe. KC Reyes, Angela Luz and Christine knowledgeable showbiz insiders. Their KC, 21, and Lino, 29, reportedly and Lino were reportedly spotted Jacob. formal union, they add, should have spent a brief vacation with a few friends having lunch last Dec. 22 at Sonya's Incidentally, Pia's previous been held this year if not for the in Boracay after Christmas. Paris- Garden in Tagaytay. KC was said to be boyfriend of seven years, Mike Jacob, previously set wedding of Bossing's based KC was in the country during the shooting a commercial that day in is the brother of Christine. But despite and Dina"s daughter, Danica, to Christmas holidays. Rumors about a Tagaytay. But as the two left Sonya's his playboy image, Bossing does not basketball player Marc Pingris this blossoming romance between the Garden, they were holding hands. talk publicly about his love life. That is year. So Bossing gets a one-year lease pretty daughter of Sharon Cuneta and Asked about the budding romance until he fell for Pia. Now, the erstwhile on his bachelor life. a Lino swirled following the break-up of with KC, this was all Lino would say, ““I the son of the late Senator Rene like her a lot. and I think napakaganda, It’s Gretchen vs Lani this time Cayetano and Blog host and former napakatalino, and talented niyang tao.” Pinoy Big Brother housemate Bianca The two reportedly hit it off instantly After her feud with Dawn Zulueta, wedding, di ba? What I have with Tony Gonzalez. One report said, “Bianca is when they met in Paris, where KC is Gretchen Barretto now finds herself is a marriage. A marriage is a really hurting and is still texting Lino.” enrolled at the American University. a embroiled in a word war with Lani commitment between two people who Mercado. The two have a history of love each other." She continued: "I Magiging Lolo na si Willie bad blood due to the brief romantic proudly can say that I have Tony's love, liaison in 1992 between Gretchen attention. I am his priority in life. He Lani's husband, Senator Bong Revilla. comes home to me and me alone. Their affair ended after four months Most of all, I have Tony's loyalty. I can when Bong decided to return to his only truly wish, with all my heart, that wife, who at that time had already three Lani has got Bong's loyalty." children with the actor. The feisty "prima donna" isn't finished. "Lani says 'I have six beautiful children with Bong'. This is the first time I'm going to say this. . . If Lani has six beautiful children with Bong, I hope that she hasn't forgotten that Bong has seven beautiful children. . . Sabi niya, 'What I have with Bong is a marriage and it's beautiful.' Lani, I didn't know that Bong's infidelity is something beautiful. It's obviously not beautiful. You don't have to pretend, you don't have to hit me. We all know that Bong has somebody else, and it's not me. So hindi ako ang dapat niyang tirahin." (In Buntis na si Meryll Soriano! Naka- masaya ako for Bernard and Meryll. her Inquirer column, Dolly Carvajal dalawang beses na siyang nag Dagdag pa ni Willie: “Maganda yun, mas wrote that Bong has a teenage son pregnancy test at panay positive ang magiging masikap pa sila dahil meron na named Luigi with a certain L.G.) lumabas na resulta. Sobrang happy ang silang paglalaanang responsabilidad, Afterwards nothing more was heard mag-asawang Meryll at Bernard Palanca mas maaga silang matututo, mas from Lani, and Bong had to request the sa unang blessing na binigay sa kanila maganda para sa kanila.” Ang anak ni ngayong taon. Nakakaranas na si Meryl Meryll at Bernard ang siyang unag apo sa showbiz press not to blow up the ng paglilihi at ang nakakahiligan niya ay bawa’t partido kaya’t tiyak na puno nang issue. ang pagkain ng kamias. Masungit na nga pagmamahal ang makukuha ng sanggol But the couple's manager, Lolit raw siya ngayon dahil madali siyang paglabas niya. At siguradong spoiled ang The old wound was reopened by a Solis, warned that she would spill the mairita. Isa pa sa labis na natutuwa sa baby sa kanyang mga lolo at lola. Kaso, seemingly innocent (?) Christmas wish beans on Gretchen's alleged role in the pagdadalang-tao ni Meryll ay ang ama nung nakaraang lingo lang, nababalitang that Lani had expressed for Gretchen. 1994 Manila filmfest scam if the actress niyang si Willie Revillame. Natutuwa ang nagkakalabuan daw itong si Bernard at "I hope that she will have a marriage would not stop her tirade against Lani. popular TV host para sa mag-asawang Meryll. Nagpadala pa ng text message with Tony (millionaire businessman Before things could get any worse, Bernard at Meryll dahil mabubuo na itong si Meryll sa the Buzz, na kung ano Tonyboy Cojuangco, Gretchen's live-in Tonyboy reportedly phoned the talaga ang pamilya ng kanyang anak. man ang mangyari sa kanila ni Bernard, partner)," Lani said when asked in a TV irrepressible Lolit to make a peace Nang matanong si Willie tungkol sa bubuhayin niyang mag-isa ang anak at di interview in December what she offering, after which she passed on the pagbubuntis ng kanyang anak, ito ang aasa ng anumang tulong kay Bernard. At wanted to say to Gretchen. The remark phone to Gretchen, who told Manay sabi niya, “Magiging lolo na ako sa ayaw ito naming si Bernard ay napabalitang did not sit well with Gretchen, who Lolit the issue is now a closed case. a ko’t sa gusto, maaga akong magiging nagpahayag sa mga kaibigan nya ng “Im promptly dished out a mouthful. "What lolo, pero a baby is always a blessing, Free…I’m Single again…”!! a Lani has with Bong is what you call a www.filipinostar.org 16 The North American Filipino Star february 2007

images, particularly during fast moving screens. This was true of earlier plasma scenes in movies or in sports. While that models, which would lose half of their was true for older generation LCD screens, brightness after more than 20,000 hours of newer models have improved significantly viewing. Later plasma generations have - so much so that the differences in bumped that up to anything between performance between LCDs and plasmas 30,000 and 60,000 hours. LCDs, on the in this regard is almost negligible (here's a other hand, are guaranteed for 60,000 tip -- if you're shopping for LCDs, check the hours. refresh rate. The lower it is, the better the You might have also heard that image quality in fast moving scenes). plasmas suffer from screen burn in, an Perhaps the biggest advantage affliction not as commonly associated with plasmas have now over their LCD cousins LCDs. Screen burn in occurs when an Plasma or LCD: What to buy - Part 2 is price, particularly in the large screen end image is left too long on a screen, resulting of the market. Plasmas typically come in in a ghost of that image burned in We have gone through the technical theatre-like usage, plasma screens have a larger sizes than LCDs at a cheaper price. permanently. Newer plasmas are less aspect of an LCD & Plasma, let go on with slight edge over LCDs. This is because Plasmas being sold in Compusmart susceptible to this thanks to improved the difference and advantages of these plasma screens can display blacks more between 42-inches and 63-inches wide, technology and other features such built-in technologies. accurately than LCDs can, which means with the cheapest 42-inch selling for screen savers, but we still hear anecdotal 1. Plasma and LCD technology - what's better contrast and detail in dark-coloured approximately CDN$3,000 (although you reports here of burn-in with new plasmas. the difference? television or movie scenes. The nature of can expect to find sets cheaper than CDN 5. Which is better value for me right Plasma and LCD panels may look similar, LCD technology, where a backlight shines $3,000 in real world prices). 60-inch and now: plasma or LCD? but the flat screen and thin profile is where through the LCD layer, means it's hard for it above plasmas can go for as much as If you're in the market for a big screen the similarities end. Plasma screens, as its to achieve true blacks because there's $20,000. LCDs, on the other hand, top out television -- and we're talking 42-inches name suggests, uses a matrix of tiny gas always some light leakage from between around the mid 40-inch mark, and are and above -- then I suggest Plasmas give plasma cells charged by precise electrical pixels. This is steadily improving with every more expensive than similar-sized you more bang for your buck at the big voltages to create a picture. LCD screens new generation of LCD, however. plasmas. end of town, and while LCDs can give you (liquid crystal display) are made up of 3. What advantages does plasma 4. What advantages does LCD have better resolution, the price difference is liquid crystal pushed in the space between have over LCD? over plasma? currently too wide. However, if money's not two glass plates. Images are created by Apart from better contrast due to its ability It's not all doom and gloom for LCD an issue and you want the sharpest image varying the amount electrical charge to show deeper blacks, plasma screens though, as it has the edge over plasma in in town, then a large LCD is for you. At the applied to the crystals. typically have better viewing angles than several key areas. LCDs tend to have smaller end of things (15" to 36" TVs), LCD 2. Is there a difference in picture LCD. Viewing angles are how far you can higher native resolution than plasmas of is the only way to go if you want something quality between plasma and LCD sit on either side of a screen before the similar size, which means more pixels on a slim and tasteful. And the best thing is that screens and normal CRT TVs? picture's quality is affected. You tend to see screen. If you're a true high-def junkie LCDs are getting cheaper all the time. It's not what's happening behind the some brightness and colour shift when who's keen to see every pixel of a high-res Just a quick note when buying screen that's important - it's how the screen you're on too far of an angle with LCDs, 1080i/p image reproduced pixel-by-pixel electronics, it is wiser to get their extended performs as a television that matters the while a plasma's picture remains fairly (providing you have a source that high, of warranty because technology is not most. In that regard, both plasma and LCD solid. This is steadily changing, however, course), then LCDs are the way to go. perfect. It could save you money and sets produce excellent pictures, although with more and more LCDs entering the LCDs also tend to consume less hassle down the road. But before signing many home entertainment specialists and market with viewing angles equal to or power than plasma screens, with some up ask a lot of questions and make sure gamers still say CRTs produce the best greater than some plasmas. Plasmas can estimates ranging that power saving at up you write them down. overall images (although plasmas and LCD also produce a brighter colour, once again to 30 per cent less than plasma. LCDs are Happy shopping folks. a sets are quickly catching up in terms of due to light leakage on an LCD affecting its also generally lighter than similar sized Al Abdon quality). colour saturation. plasmas, making it easier to move around Hollywood Junkies Video Productions Those same home entertainment Technicians will also tell you that some or wall mount. Serving Nationwide specialists will tell you that for basic home LCD screens have a tendency to blur LCD pundits also point to the fact that (514) 264-8706 LCDs have a longer lifespan than plasma

www.filipinostar.org february 2007 The North American Filipino Star 17 always been your home, can be a In terms of Quebec, those Reading you difficult decision. However, the intending to sponsor a close relative or decision alone is only the beginning of family member abroad, may sponsor: your rights the many challenges one encounters when deciding to immigrate to • their spouse, common-law By Atty. Lito I. Domingo Canada. partner or conjugal partner For many potential • their dependent child Second article: newcomers, the decision to immigrate • their father, mother, is usually the easy part. It is the grandfather or grandmother immigration process that can prove to • their orphaned brother, sister, Coming to Canada! be quite challenging. nephew, niece, grandson or Before beginning the process, granddaughter, who is under the age you must be aware that Canada offers of 18, and not married or in a common- In a world darkened by ethnic conflicts healthcare system. For without it, I an array of options to choose from law relationship that tear nations apart, Canada stands would not have the health and quality when applying for permanent • a child they plan to adopt as a model of how people of different of life I have today. residence status. Each option must be As a sponsor, you must be cultures can live and work together in I have also had the opportunity studied in order to determine the aware that you will have to sign an peace, prosperity, and mutual respect. of obtaining a great education in a application program that best suits you undertaking agreement. This province which boasts one of the and your family. agreement should not be taken lightly. Former U.S. President Bill Clinton lowest tuition costs for university in One of the most commonly You will have to accept certain North America. Again, without such a used options in our community is the responsibilities and obligations with Canada is a place where program I may not have completed law process which falls under “family class regard to not only the person you are immigrants can provide their families school. immigration”. Through this particular sponsoring but also toward the with a quality of life and a brighter Therefore, it is no surprise that program, you may help your loved Quebec government. By signing an future while maintaining their culture many immigrants, such as those of our ones become permanent residents of agreement, you are promising to and heritage. It is a country recognized Filipino community, have chosen Canada by sponsoring them. They financially support the person you are worldwide as a model multicultural Canada as their new home. must however be one of the relatives or sponsoring for a number of years to society that embraces ethnic diversity. This year, our nation is family members listed as eligible ensure that they will not have to apply Having visited my cousins, opening its arms to thousands more to applicants for sponsorship under the for social assistance once they arrive. aunts, uncles and grandparents in the welcome them as new residents. In family class. By sponsoring your loved Philippines, I understand the blessings Ottawa, the Minister of CIC (Citizenship In addition, you, as the ones, you must commit yourself to I was afforded by my parents’ decision and Immigration Canada) recently sponsor, as well as the person you are providing them with their basic needs to immigrate to Canada. tabled the 2006 “Annual Report to sponsoring must satisfy specific such as food, clothing and other As a Filipino-Canadian, I have Parliament on Immigration”. In tabling requirements. In light of the fact that necessities for the entire period of the experienced first hand the benefits and its annual report, CIC said it plans to immigration is a shared jurisdiction agreement. This undertaking allows opportunities of growing up in Canada. accept between 240,000 and 265,000 between the governments of Québec the government to ensure that the new When I was born into this world, I was newcomers as permanent residents in and Canada, a person exercising the an infant requiring extensive medical 2007. option under “family class attention. I was very fortunate to be Taking the decision to leave immigration” must therefore satisfy the See Page Coming to Canada born into a country with such a strong your native country, a place that has requirements of both governments.

www.filipinostar.org 18 The North American Filipino Star february 2007 Roberto, chief engineer of the From Page 3 HOMECOMING Palace won’t take opposition bait seized vessel, said he just wanted to be February 20, 2007 President Arroyo and Team Unity A Filipina woman was abducted on with his family before declining to talk It’s not a proxy war between are campaigning under a platform of February 7 in Port Harcourt in Rivers further with reporters. President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo continuing growth and reform and will State. Gunmen abducted the woman Glenda Cagas said her husband, and former President Joseph Estrada, not get bogged down by controversies from the centre of the city, at the heart of Herculano Cagas, would probably ship Malacañang insisted yesterday on the that are being handled by the courts,” Nigeria's oil industry. out again after resting in Manila, despite ongoing election campaign that pits Bunye said. “We are for unity and administration and opposition reconciliation but under the rule of senatorial candidates against each law.” other. Dodging restrictions on his “We are not taking the bait of the movements imposed by the opposition of making the campaign a Sandiganbayan and National Police, fight between the Palace and former Mr. Estrada was able to meet with the President Estrada,” said Presidential opposition senatorial candidates when Spokesman Ignacio Bunye. he visited her sickly mother, Doña Mary Bunye also debunked the Ejercito, in their paternal house on opposition’s assertion that it is within another street in Greenhills, San Juan. the power of Malacañang to allow Mr. The candidates had themselves Estrada to be temporarily freed or to be photographed with Estrada as part of placed under house arrest in his their publicity campaign. residence on Polk Street in Greenhills, But opposition campaign San Juan. spokesman Adel Tamano said they The former president has asked would ask the anti-graft court to lift the the Sandiganbayan to be released travel and media ban against Estrada. from detention so that he could He said they would also ask the court President Gloria Arroyo greets twenty-four of 26 Filipino seamen who were seized last month by campaign for opposition candidates in to transfer the former president from gunmen in Nigeria, after a thanksgiving dinner at Malacanang presidential palace in Manila. the May 14 elections. “We leave the his resthouse and farm in Tanay, Rizal A day earlier a Filipino employee of his traumatic ordeal. matter to the court,” Bunye said. to his home in Greenhills. Netco Dietsmann -- the Nigerian arm of "It is difficult, but we don't have any Over the weekend, Senate Bunye also justified the President’s a Monaco-based oil services company - other choice. We need the livelihood for President Manuel Villar, a guest decision to limit her appearances in - was seized from a company car the family," Cagas said, noting that their senatorial bet adopted by the campaign rallies and sorties of Team heading for the airport in Owerri, the two children aged six and four have yet “Genuine Opposition,” said he felt bad Unity to allow her to concentrate on the capital of Imo State. to enter primary school. that Estrada remains under detention economy. Late Saturday, the 24 men and their "The hardest part for us was when six years after he was toppled from “President Arroyo has vowed not families met with President Arroyo who we saw them on cable television being power and after he was charged with to let politics get in the way of the hosted a dinner at the palace in their threatened with guns by their captors in the non-bailable plunder case for economy, but to reinforce the economy honour. masks," she said. allegedly amassing more than P4 with firm political stability,” the Palace Jocelyn Arcangel said she and her Nigeria is one of the biggest billion in “tainted wealth.” spokesman said. family would take a holiday before employers of Filipino workers in Africa, It was Villar, as speaker of House of “We see the political campaign deciding on their future. with some 3,900 Filipinos employed "We will have a very long family Representatives, who railroaded the taking its course in a manner reflecting there at the end of 2006. vacation after this incident and we'll transmittal of the Estrada impeachment a full-pledged Philippine democracy; President Arroyo has banned decide after whether he (Roberto) resolution to the Senate in November and this should convince one and all further deployments to Nigeria in the should leave again," she said. 2000. that freedom reigns beside a free wake of the kidnappings. a Bunye said that the campaign “is market in our country. We call on the not about personalities but issues, not opposition not to hurt, but to help Enterprise Immigration Canada Inc. about the past but about the future.” grow, the economy. a 4661 Van Horne Avenue, Suite 10, Peso surges to new 6-year high of 48.03 Montreal, Quebec H3W 1H9 Tel.: 514-738-8549 • Fax: 514-738-5631 February 20, 2007 on a volume of $364.5 million, down Heavy remittances from Filipino from Friday’s $439 million. YOUR SOLUTION FOR PERMANENT RESIDENCE migrant workers and foreign BDO Private Bank vice president investment flows into the stock market Jose Emmanuel Hilado said the peso Mme M. Gauthier, B.A., MBA, President of the company, is a pushed the peso to as high of 48.03 traded at a tight range in the absence former representative of the Minister of Citizenship and against the US dollar yesterday, trader of significant news. He said the market said. was quiet due to the Chinese New Year Immigration. She will help you solve your problems such as: “Portfolio inflows as well as holiday. • Demand for refugee status and related appeals remittances [from migrant workers] Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. • Demand for refugee status outside of Canada more than met the scant corporate vice president Marcelo Ayes said he • Detention reviews demand. The overall sentiment for the expected the peso to continue its rise, peso continues to be positive,” he said. adding that the market would test the • Memorandum for PRAA observations The peso edged at 48.10, 48:$1 level this week on positive news • Memorandum for Humanitarian observations unchanged from Friday’s close. and with the continued strength of • Appeal on all decisions rendered by foreign Traders said suspected intervention regional currencies. Canadian Embassies from the central bank capped the University of Asia and the Pacific • Visa peso’s gain. professor Victor Abola said the steady The peso opened at 48.05 and flow of remittances from Filipino • Sponsorship inside and outside Canada traded within a seven-centavo range. It migrant workers had been supporting • Independent Immigration averaged at 48.062 against the dollar the strength of the peso. a • Inscription to provincial programs such as job offers, investor, entrepreneur, skilled worker EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN FLORIDA FOR • Citizenship application PHILIPPINE REGISTERED NURSES ..... we will be in • Job placement (caregivers, nannies) your area for interviews and information session in “No victory is ever won without a struggle.” February 2007 WE OFFER CONSULTATION & TRANSLATION SERVICES Tel. (905) 646-6407 AND WE COMPLETE FORMS Email: [email protected] WE ALSO OFFER COMMISSIONER OF OATHS SERVICES

www.filipinostar.org february 2007 The North American Filipino Star 19 From Page 7 Cooperatives societies and to help others, they acting as president of the commission true co-operative principles in developed a unique combination of of inquiry into the condition of the Germany. saving money for over a year, these written policies that governed the labourers and artisans, became Friedrich Wilhelm Raiffeisen (May 3, pioneers opened their co-op store affairs of the cooperative in 1844, impressed with the necessity of co- 1818 - May 11, 1888), Germany. together at 31 Toad Lane on a cold which have been highly influential operation to enable the smaller trades- A German cooperative leader. December evening in 1844. Although throughout the cooperative movement people to hold their own against the He was mayor of several towns: from the founders agreed to sell just butter, until today. Among these rules were: capitalists. 1845 he was mayor of sugar, flour, and oatmeal to members, Democratic control of members, He was a member of the Second Weyerbusch/Westerwald; from 1848 they also offered tallow candles for Payment of limited interest on capital, Chamber in 1848-1849; but as matters he was mayor of Flammersfeld- sale that night. They were forced to buy and Net margins distributed to ceased to run smoothly between /Westerwald; and finally he was mayor candles because the gas company members according to level of himself and the high legal officials, he of Heddesdorf from 1852 until 1865. refused to supply gas for the new patronage. threw up his public appointments in Raiffeisen conceived of the group's lights. They bought candles in Based on its success, the October 1851, and withdrew to idea of cooperative self-help during his bulk and sold what they didn't use to Rochdale set of policies soon became Delitzsch. Here he devoted himself to tenure as the young mayor of their members. a model for other cooperative the organization and development of Flammersfeld. He was inspired by When they purchased goods endeavors, and became known as the co-operation in Germany, and to the observing the suffering of the farmers from a wholesale dealer and then cooperative principles that make a foundation of Vorschussvereine who were often in the grip of divided them equally among cooperative unique from other (peoples' banks), of which he had loansharks. And being a countryside themselves, they were surprised at the business structures. The Society established the first at Delitzsch in mayor he was confronted with the savings and higher quality of products quickly grew to include other 1850. miserable poverty of the farmers and they were able to obtain. enterprises and businesses. Rochdale In 1859 he promoted the first their families. He tried to alleviate this The Pioneers agreed to work together is still considered the birthplace of the Genossenschaftstag, a co-operative need through a variety of charitable to provide members with places to live. modern cooperative movement. meeting, in Weimar, and founded a activities. He soon realized, however, They ran a factory so members could Franz Hermann Schulze-Delitzsch central bureau of co-operative that self-reliance had more potential in have jobs, bought land to grow food (August 29, 1808 - April 29, 1883), societies. In 1863 he devoted the chief the long run than charitable aid. He for each other, and opened a school for Germany. portion of a testimonial, amounting to therefore converted his charitable their children. A German economist was born £7500, to the maintenance of his co- foundations into a farmers' cooperative Each member of the group at Delitzsch, in Prussian Saxony. The operative institutions and offices. This, lending bank in Germany, in effect the provided some money. Everyone place-name Delitzsch was added in however, was only to meet an first credit union in 1864. In doing so he owned an equal part of the Rochdale 1848 to distinguish him from other exceptional outlay, for he always created the Darlehnskassen-Verein, it Society of Equitable Pioneers’ different Schulzes in the National Assembly. insisted that they must be self- collected the savings of the activities. And all took turns working for He studied law at Leipzig and Halle supporting. countryside dwellers and provided the the group and helping make decisions universities and, when thirty, he The spread of these enterprising but needy farmers with on what it should do. became an assessor in the court of organizations naturally led to loans. The Rochdale Pioneers weren't the first justice at Berlin, and three years later legislation on the subject, and this too In the year 2006, the RZB group to try forming a co-op but they was appointed patrimonial-richter at was chiefly the work of Schulze- Group posted the following results: were the first to make their co-op Delitzsch. Entering the parliament of Delitzsch. As a member of the Total assets at around 110 billion succeed and endure. To avoid the 1848, he joined the Left Centre, and, Chamber in 1867 he was mainly euros, operating income of 1.8 billion mistakes made by earlier co-op instrumental in passing the Prussian , Net income 1.6 billion , an law of association, which was equivalent of full-time employees of extended to the North German 55,400 distributed in 2,850 outlets, Confederation in 1868, and later to the serving over 11.7 million clients and a empire. return on equity of 38%. His life-work was now The Raiffeisen International complete; he had placed the offers the following products: advantages of capital and co-operation Commercial banking, Investment within the reach of struggling banking, Private banking, and Asset tradesmen throughout Germany. His Management, mostly owned by RZB remaining years were spent in (whose share is 70%), which operates consolidating this work. Both as a banking subsidiaries in 15 countries of 4715 Van Horne Bubble tea with a writer and a member of the Reichstag Central and Eastern Europe, namely (near Plamondon Metro) variety of flavors his industry was incessant, and he died Albania, Belarus, Bosnia and Tel.: 514-344-9999 in harness on the 29th of April 1883 at Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Potsdam, leaving the reputation of a Republic, Hungary, Moldova, Poland, Internet Café benefactor to the smaller tradesmen Romania, Russia, Serbia (including and artisans, in which light he must be regarded rather than as the founder of See Page 20 Cooperatives EMYRUZ Salon de Coiffure Unisexe Come experience the magic touch of Certified Stylists & Colorists at Emyruz Unisex Salon DR. EMILIA ESPIRITU Valentine Promo until February 28, 2007 15% off on all services CHIRURGIEN DENTISTE / DENTAL SURGEON 5775 Ave. Victoria, Suite 102 (near Bourret) 5790 COTE DES NEIGES RD. SUITE A-024 Montreal, QC H3W 2R4 MONTREAL, QUEBEC PHONE: 514-340-8222 (4077) H3S 1Y9 Tel.: 514-510-0530 E-Mail: [email protected] Cell: 514-995-8974

www.filipinostar.org 20 The North American Filipino Star February 2007 and volunteer officers. In 2005, it gave Filipino Solidarity Cooperative on the From Page 19 Cooperatives its members C$408 million in patronage Kosovo), Slovakia, Slovenia and allocations and C$58 million in way to recovery, slowly but surely donations, sponsorships and academic Ukraine. that it will give a grant of $40 000 if the scholarships. Most of this latter sum By Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi The Rabobank, a Dutch Coop gets a business loan, they have went to regional economic \ cooperative banking institution with Montreal, February 20, 2007 - decided to take some more time before development and health purposes. offices all over the world, although From the previous report which is quite releasing the funds and they want a Today, the cooperative movement in primarily in the Netherlands is rooted in detailed, there are still outstanding guaranty that it will not be used for Quebec is more than 3,500 cooperative the ideas of Friedrich Wilhelm issues which were not completely anything else than what it was Raiffeisen. organizations and mutuals, 80,000 resolved. The exact amount of the originally intended for. Mr. Jason There are many independent jobs, $20 billion in sales, $130 billion in missing cash was not determined as Prince promised to work for the Raiffeisen co-operative organizations in assets and owned by over 7.5 million the volunteer bookkeeper, Lourdes protection of the Coop and he asked other countries, most of them members. Fagsao, was still reviewing all the that Mrs. Kharroubi communicate with specialized in agribusiness or banking. There are over 10,000 source documents. She prepared an him regularly and to answer questions Gabriel-Alphonse Desjardins cooperative businesses in Canada, interim financial statement for banking that need to be answered in order to (November 5, 1854 - October 31, 1920), generating nearly 160,000 jobs, holding purposes, but since the results were present a clear report of what is going Canada. combined assets of $167 billion and dismal, the bank actually did not find on. The committee that will finally He was born in Lévis, Quebec, owned by 15 million members. the Coop to be a good credit risk at the decide the release of the grant will Canada. He was the co-founder of the Cooperative Movement Around the moment. Hence, there are other steps meet only on March 15, 2007. For the Caisses Populaires Desjardins (today World. that need to be taken by the new coming weeks, it is critical that the Desjardins Group) and the forerunner Co-operative communities management team to find other of North American credit unions. such as food retail, insurance, banking, Coop receives more support from its solutions. own members. They should try to buy Gabriel-Alphonse Desjardins was a funeral services, transport, housing, One of the needed changes is journalist at L'écho and Le Canadien agriculture, insurance and the travel as often as possible to generate more the splitting of duties or sales, and to make a fast turnover of until 1879. He was publisher of Débats industry are now widespread in many responsibilities. Rhoda Tremocha has de la législature du Québec from 1879 parts of the world. the merchandise inventory. They tbeen taking a lot of the burden should also try to participate in the to 1890, and French-language Mondragón in the Basque because she was not only the tresurer Country of Spain is one of the largest membership drive announced in the parliamentary stenographer at the but she also did most of the and most successful coop examples. In January issue of the North American House of Commons from 1892 to 1917. purchasing and dealt with the many European countries, cooperative Filipino Star. The deadline to In 1897, Desjardins became members who were claiming refunds. institutions have a predominant market participate has been extended to increasingly concerned with the Needless to say, it was quite stressful share in the retail banking and March 15 (formerly, it was supposed to problem of usury and undertook three to be in her position. Hence, she insurance businesses. In the UK, co- be February 22, 2007). The contest will years of careful research and requested to be replaced. With the operatives formed the Co-operative end on November 15, 2007, and the correspondence with the founders of blessing of the board of directors, Mrs. Party in the early 20th century to winners will be announced in the cooperative savings and credit Zenaida Kharroubi became the new movements in Europe. On December 6, represent members of co-ops in December 2007 issue of the Star. tresaurer. since January 21, 2007. 1900, Desjardins and his wife, Parliament. The Co-operative Party now Ben Bade, president of the Being in this position, she has been Dorimène Roy Desjardins, co-founded has a permanent electoral pact with the Coop plans to travel to Toronto to meet dealing with most of the people who the first Caisse d'épargne Desjardins in Labour Party, and some Labour MPs with suppliers who import directly from are still waiting for reimbursement of Lévis and opened for business the are Co-operative Party members. the Philippines in order to get better their savings plan. Mrs. Kharroubi has following month. Later, it was renamed Credit unions, insurance prices. It is also planned that in the tried to refund the most urgent ones Caisses populaires Desjardins. cooperatives and Housing near future, if the Coop receives whenever possible. Those who can Caisse populaire is a synthesis cooperatives, which they call “Market- sufficient capital funds, to deal directly wait, she appealed to them to give the (combination) of four popular savings Rate Housing Coops”, are very with producers and manufacturers in Coop more time to find the needed and credit systems established in common in New York City. Social the Philippines. Perhaps, a shipping funds which are expected to come Germany, Italy and France: the caisse Cooperatives are prominent in Italy. The company or balik-bayan box outfit can from the membership drive. Some d'épargne, the Schulze-Delitzsch bank, well-known Best Western Hotel Chain collaborate with the Coop in the the Raiffeisen credit co-operative and (Building or Workers’ Coops) is a large directors, including Mrs. Kharroubi, shipment of merchandise. When this the Luzzatti popular bank. Desjardins coop in Great Britain. France, Sweden, had to lend money to the Coop just to happens, it will no longer be a problem stayed in close contact with many of the Switzerland, Spain, Italy, and pay the rent, and other bills that need to compete with the other stores as the founders of the European co-operative Scandinavia have giant cooperatives, to be paid right away. Cash is also Coop will definitely attract more people movement throughout his life. like consumers’ coops, insurance required to pay for purchases upon who are looking for lower prices and From 1900 to 1906, Desjardins coops and credit unions owned and ran delivery. A couple of suppliers agreed better service. founded just three other caisses by their coop members. to receive postdated cheques but they populaires: Lauzon (1902), Hull (1903), The passenger buses in Israel, are only for two or three weeks delay. See Page 22 FILIPINO COOPERATIVE and Saint-Malo, Québec (1905). After managed and owned by driver- Although CDEC gave its word failing to get a federal law passed in members, are carrying more than 80% Ottawa that would provide a Canadian- of daily travelers. Japan has a very Lourdes Blanco Rosales wide framework for more such large and well-developed consumer organizations, Desjardins turned his coop movement with over 14 million Financial Security Advisor efforts, with the collaboration of members. Their retail coops alone had Tel.: 514-336-2415 Ext. 256 Cell: 514-885-7343 journalists and priests, to founding a combined turnover of U$ 21 billion, as more caisses. During the 1907-1914 well as coops on medical, housing, period, Desjardins personally founded insurance, and coops for teachers and • Financial Investment, Retirement and Tax 146 caisses. university-based. At the time of his death in 1920, Today, there are big Planning there were 187 caisses populaires in cooperatives and credit unions widely • Child Education - RESP Québec (30,000 members and total spread in Asian countries like South • Banking Services - HELOC assets of nearly $6 million), 24 in Korea, Hong Kong, Japan, Indonesia, Ontario and 9 in the United States. Bangladesh, Singapore, Nepal, • Annuities and RRIFs Alphonse and Dorimène Desjardins' Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan, Sri Lanka, • Group Retirement Plans home, where the first caisse populaire and the Philippines. was launched, is now a center The worldwide cooperative • Insurance (Life, Group, Disability, Business, dedicated to his memory and has been movement counts nearly 750,000 Critical Illness, Mortgages and Travel) visited by over 178,000 people from cooperatives in more than 100 115 countries since its opening in 1982. countries and creates jobs for 100 Commissioner for Oaths Total assets at Desjardins million people. In all judicial districts of Quebec and outside Group currently reach C$118.068 (The Prime Movers and History billion. This ranks it as the sixth-largest of Coop Movement in the Philippines Quebec (Affidavit, Contract, Deed of Sale, Legal financial institution in Canada and the will be tackled next issue.) Documents, etc.) largest in Québec, ahead of National Tel.: (514) 885-7343 Bank of Canada, which had assets of C$77 billion as of October 2003. It has E-Mail: [email protected] 39,294 employees and 7,184 elected

www.filipinostar.org february 2007 The North American Filipino Star 21 Duties and Taxes for importation of of relationship for joining spouse personal effects up to US$ 7,000.00; 4) --Birth certificate or any similar proof of Global Exemption from travel tax if stay in the relationship of relationship for joining Philippines is less than a year from the children Perspectives last entry date; 5) Option of including --All documents obtained abroad must dependents to the Program; 6) be authenticated by the Philippine Exemption from obtaining special Embassy/Consular Office, and study permit; 7) Assistance in translated into English if necessary. obtaining an Alien Employment Permit; Tax-free remittance of Annuities and N.B. Above all else, anyone who Pensions; 8) Exemption from the decides to live and retire in the Bureau of Immigration’s Annual Philippines can expect to: experience Registration Requirement; and 10) hospitality, friendliness and innate Guaranteed repatriation of the respect & love for the elderly. deposit/investment. For further information please SSRVisa provisions are: visit the Philippine Retirement Authority Isaac T. Goodine Citizenship: Foreign nationals and Website: www.pra.gov.ph former Filipino citizens Tel: (632) 848 1412, Fax No: (632) 848 The choice of where to retire is now yours Requirements: Principal Applicant-- 1411 Foreign nationals and former Filipino “The choice of when to retire will soon some, so called, tax havens, that citizens who are at least 35 years old; From Page 17 Coming to Canada be yours”: was the heading for the operate in secret. In short, it is possible Dependent Applicant—Spouse and previous issue of this to establish residency in the Children below 21 years old residents will make every effort to Column, and now, I am pleased to be Philippines, as a reriree, and avoid Deposit Requirements: Foreign become self-supporting and contribute able to inform you, Dear Readers, that; paying income tax on payments Nationals, 35—49 yrs. old = US$ to our nation instead of becoming a the choice of received from pensions abroad. The 75,000.00, 50 yrs old and above =US$ burden to it. Where to retire is now yours”. concept is not new, but the Philippines 50,000.00; Former Filipino Citizens In the event the person you The statement on when to retire refers has in place the appropriate authority =US$1,500.00 sponsored does prove to become a to the announcement to implement international agreements One-time processing fees: Principal = burden on our society, as they turn to that the Province of Ontario abolished with several countries. This can be US$ 1,500.00: Dependent/Spouse = financial assistance via government the compulsory retirement age last particularly attractive to Canadians, US$ 300.00 social programs, you will be legally December and the statement on and especially for Canadians of Filipino Documentary Requirements: 1) required to reimburse the amounts choice of where to retire refers to origin. As far back as 1986, Canadians Accomplished PRA application form; provided by the government to options created by the globalization were informed that the Government of 2) Original passport with valid entry; 3) support them. process. the day, then under the Progressive Medical Certificate; 4) Police or Taking the decision to The meeting on managing Conservative party, was implementing National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) immigrate to Canada is an important transitions in the ageing society that I pension reforms while seeking to Clearance; 5) Time Deposit one. For many, the decision to attended in Manila last December balance a responsibility “to ensure Certification from any PRA approved immigrate to Canada has been a life included a special visit to the Philippine basic levels of income for needy accredited bank of the Inward US$ long dream. Therefore, you should Retirement Authority (PRA) that is elderly with the equally important Remittance; and 6) Photographs (six consider consulting a lawyer or a designed specifically to promote the responsibility of Canadians to provide each) 1”x1” & 2”x2” government representative in order to Philippines as Asia’s Retirement for their own retirement through the ensure that the process will be as Haven. The program caters to foreign exercise of initiative and self-reliance” NOTES: smooth and successful as possible. nationals and former Filipino citizens That policy statement by the Finance --Spouse and dependents are required and offers similar benefits to all Minister, Michael Wilson, was to submit Medical Certificate and You may contact Attorney Domingo of participants through a Special considered by many Canadians as a Police/National Bureau of Investigation DG Attorneys at (514) 823-8464 Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRVisa). The sharp turn to the right in social policy Clearance Philippines is one of about a dozen with its new emphasis on self-reliance. --Marriage Contract or any similar proof countries that offer special residency Now we know that many of the elderly conditions for retirees and the PRS’s are seeking to remain self reliant as DRIVELINES DRIVING SCHOOL conditions are among the most long as possible; some supplement 5497 A Victoria Suite 104, Montreal Cote St-Catherine generous available. One’s place of their pensions by working; others cut Tel.: (514) 344-0085, web: residence is the controlling factor in living expenses by various means www.drivelines.ca taxation including income tax on including tax avoidance. Therefore, the pensions and annuities. In that regard, options offered by the Philippine * Theory and Practical Driving Courses for SAAQ Exams af affordable prices the Philippines does not tax pensions Retirement Authority offer additional * Discounts for student/collective registration or income from outside sources for means to achieve self-reliance after * Day-evening weekend sessions at flexible hours retirees under this program, making it retirement. * Monitors certified by Quebec Safety League very attractive for tax avoidance in The benefits offered by the * Special care for nervous drivers planning for retirement. PRA are: 1) Option of permanent * High success rate Tax avoidance, which is legal residency, multiple-entry, and indefinite * S.A.A.Q examination and pick n’ drop services and in conformity to tax treaties, should stay in the Philippines; 2) Exemption Registration by appointment not be confused with tax evasion, from exit clearance and re-entry which is not legal and is offered by permits; 3) Exemption from Custom

APO new president Arnold Ortiz poses with the members of Laging Handa Scout group www.filipinostar.org 22 The North American Filipino Star february 2007 of cash pilferage. Knowing that there is the community’s economic prosperity. get the most important businesses as From Page 20 Filipino Cooperative more than one person handling cash, As a final word, the point of our sponsors. A proposal has been In spite ofne the length of the previous report and that Rhoda Tremocha was away this whole report is to underscore the sent to Air Canada through the on the Coop, not everything was included for a month in May 2006 for a holiday, importance of making all Filipino- website. Letters will be sent to because it was not possible to get the exact and that she said that she did not Canadians in Cote des Neiges become decision makers in companies that can iamount of the missing cash, and the handle the savings plan anymore upon more involved. Instead of walking donate either cash or goods. accounting work was not completed yet. her return after a month, it would seem straightforward to the other stores on If any one has a suggestion As ot this time, only an interim or tentative report is available. This report will be unfair to put the blame on her, as what the corner of the street, they should at concerning prospective donors, audited and the final figures determined the former president was trying to do. least take a few more steps toward the please send us your feedback through before the next general assembly Perhaps, his sudden decision to quit direction of their own cooperative. The the North American Filipino Star scheduled to be held in April. was a way to avoid the issue more people who care and who do not website or e-mail: Nevertheless, to keep the affairs of the altogether. It would have been easier begrudge a 5-cent difference at all, the [email protected], or Coop an open book, some of the missing for everyone to find out the truth if he easier it will be for us to build up our www.filipinostar.org. information is provided in this status report. did not leave and if he turned over all own business. it is not even true that Membership application forms According to the interim income documents for proper scrutiny. Now prices at the Filipino Solidarity and contest entry forms will be statement, there was a terminal loss of that he and his wife are gone, there is Cooperative are higher than in the available shortly. Please call for more 42,042.13 consisting of the following: no way to make a definitive conclusion othere stores. Most of the prices are information st 514-733-8915, or at the Leased equipment repossessed $6 943.20 to this affair. Obviously, the lack of tight comparable, and sometimes even Star’s offices at 514-485-7861. Basement improvements 12 062.50 accounting procedures made the lower. But the advantage of the bigger Target is to have a minimum of Unreceipted cash spent: situation complicated. stores is their purchasing power which 1000 members. The more the better. If for year 2005 12 062.50 In view of this, how do people is greater. Hopefully, this will not last we succeed in having at least 5 000 for year 2006 11 325.94 regain trust in the Cooperative? What long. We can look forward to having members in a year or two, we will be Total terminal loss $42 042.13 are the steps that the new the means to buy in bigger quantities the next “Cooperative of the Year”. Add: Operating loss 22 274.98 Total Net Loss 2006 $64 317.11 management team need to take? How and pass on the savings to all the Every year, CDR is holding a gala do they make sure that anomalies of members. dinner to recognize cooperatives for Another data omitted is the this nature do not happen again? Will Let’s take our numbers to our own their accomplishments. We should be discovery of Loto tickets in an envelope members consider this a lesson advantage. Let’s create jobs, and all motivated enough to work towards which Ben Bade found lying around in learned and not take it against the improve our economic conditions. It’s this goal of winning the title and the the basement. The tickets purchased people who are left behind to continue in everyone’s power to makethese honor. We have enough population to from cash and cheque totalled $4 982. the business? Only time will provide things happen and to make a make our dream a reality. Only $682 was purchased by cheque, the answers. Howevever, most of us difference. On Thursday, March 15, 2006, the rest in cash. Considering the total behind the Coop are optimistic that in CDR is holding a gala dinner at the cash unaccounted for is $23 388.54 due time, we will be able to overcome UPDATE ON THE COOP’S Hyatt Regency Hotel. Tickets are: $80 (both years 2005 and 2006), and the all these problems. If all members buy MEMBERSHIP DRIVE for cooperative members, and $85 for amount of unnecessary purchases, their Pilipino groceries from the Coop, Most of the details announced non-members. rent of the basement and repairs and if they also recruit their friends, in the January issue are still valid. The Contact details: totalling about $18 000, it seems to family and associates to become only change is the deadline which is provide an idea of the reason why the members, there is no reason for failure. moved to March 15, 2007 for 514-485-7861 for information Filipino Solidarity Cooperative is in a The Filipino Cooperative must rise organizational reasons. big financial bind. Unfortunately, there again and become a valuable tool for We started collecting data to is no written proof to accuse anyone Wanted AMPYRE CAPITAL CORPORATION Scouts adult volunteers from all walks of life Will help you realize your dream If you are willing to give two MORTGAGE LOAN hours of your time to lead a group of young people in GUARANTEED APPROVAL Scouting Laging Handa Scout 100% Group 0592 please call 514-485-7861

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www.filipinostar.org february 2007 The North American Filipino Star 23 Mixed reactions to Philippine government's new Philippines to appeal U.S. nurse ban policies for domestic helpers February 26, 2007 the exams. market. Let us leave them to other February 20, 2007 The Philippine government is to The president said all officials of the countries. Let us concentrate on the The Philippines wants to uplift the appeal a move by the US to ban some Professional Regulations Commission higher paying level of domestic helpers status of Filipinos working as domestic 17,000 nurses who passed the 2006 (PRC), which overseas the and go to the countries that can pay this helpers outside the country, with a new nursing examination amid allegations of examinations, found involved in scandal minimum wage." minimum wage. mass cheating. will be dismissed and criminally To justify the higher minimum wage, However, the new policies are a The United States Commission on charged. the Philippine government is promising double-edged sword for Filipinos who Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools "All officials involved in the nursing better equipped workers. All domestic cannot find work at home. (CGFNS) issued the temporary ban this exam leakage should be dismissed helper applicants will now have to Under the government's new hiring week insisting that Filipino nurses retake without benefits and criminally undergo a month's training on policy for domestic helpers bound sections of the 2006 examination where charged," she stressed. household chores. It is based on the overseas, a Language and Culture mass cheating took place. The CGFNS said on its website on belief that better wages will mean better Certificate of Competence is just one of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Thursday that "Philippine nurses who self esteem. But for some, the new the certificates that they now have to on Friday ordered Labor Secretary were sworn in as licensed nurses in the requirements could prevent them from acquire before they can leave. Arturo Brion to appeal the decision. Philippines following their passing the having a better future. Consuelo Canoza, Assessor, The order comes after a nursing compromised licensure exam of June Starting March 1, only those aged Technical Education and Skills review centre disclosed it had leaked 2006 are not eligible for a VisaScreen 25 years and above will be allowed to Development Authority, said, "We have answers to some students who took the Certificate." work as household service workers. to be globally competitive. We have to examinations. The Philadelphia-based CGFNS That is why some women have been learn first of all, communication skills, The scandal rocked the country's said that it sent a fact-finding mission to working double time to finish their not only skills in household chores but medical profession and cast a shadow the Philippines in September 2006 to training and beat the deadline. Leeneth skills also in communicating." over the quality of its nurses, who are in investigate the reports of irregularities in Agpalza, a trainee, said, "It doesn't With the government's new reform high demand overseas, especially in the the nursing licensure exam. depend on age. I can work. We do this package, they will not just be known as United States, Europe and the Middle The CGFNS investigation because here in the Philippines, the plain domestic helpers but upgraded to East. concluded that "those who received salary is low even if you've graduated household service workers. This is a Some 42,000 students sat the their license as a result of passing the from college." term that the government feels should nursing examination but only 17,000 compromised June 2006 licensure Another trainee, Janet Bisera, said, enable them to double their salary to as passed. examination raises significant questions "I really want to leave so I can help my much as US$400 a month. Arroyo in a statement Saturday said about the accurate assessment of the parents. I'm the eldest child and my Arturo Brion, Secretary, Department she had ordered the appeal to "uphold competencies of many of those siblings are depending on me to pay for of Labor and Employment, said, "(The) the prestige of the country’s nursing individuals." their studies." bottomline here is, we must protect our profession and continue the deployment All foreign nurses must have a With such sentiments, it looks like a women. Number two, we must enhance of Filipino nurses abroad." CGFNS-issued VisaScreen Certificate tough balancing act for the Philippine our level of participation overseas even She said the government has before being allowed to work in the US. at the level of domestic helpers. We government, even as it tries to protect its already provided financial assistance to a citizens pushed to leave family and must be at that higher end of domestic the 2006 nurses who passed to retake helpers. Let us leave the US$200 country in order to find work. a

www.filipinostar.org 24 The North American Filipino Star february 2007

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