The North American Filipino Star

Volume XXXIX No. 8 August 2021 , QC www.filipinostar.org to implement COVID-19 vaccine passport on Sept. 1 in the face of 'ineviVtaccaine pbassplorets wil'l be n4eedetd tho accesws publiac evevnts,e bars, restaurants and gyms Sabrina Jonas · CBC News · Posted: Aug 10, 2021 12:11 PM ET Quebec's health minister says gyms and training facilities to avoid the a vaccination passport system will be widespread closures that marked the implemented on Sept. 1 to combat first waves of COVID-19 in Quebec. rising COVID-19 cases and an When asked about religious "inevitable" fourth wave. gatherings and weddings, Dubé said "Taking into account the the government is still discussing increase in cases, the fall coming up whether they will be included as events with the back to school and back to that require vaccine passports. work and the expected prevalence of For the time being, the the delta variant, the conditions are vaccination passport will not be used in there to deploy the vaccination retail stores or schools passport," Christian Dubé said. Dubé emphasized the system Dubé unveiled some details is the only way to keep the economy about the system, announced last open and still protect the health system Quebec Health Minister Christian Dubé shows an app on his phone as week by Premier François Legault, from being overwhelmed as it was in he announces details of the COVID-19 vaccination passport during a alongside two public health officials — previous waves. He says a fourth wave, news conference Tuesday in Montreal. The passport will be installed Dr. Yves Jalbert, a strategic medical driven by the delta variant, is on an app that is being tested this week in a pilot project. (The adviser, and Caroline Roy, an adviser "inevitable" in Quebec. Canadian Press) on matters related to the COVID-19 According to Jalbert, delta is vaccination campaign. behind a third of new infections in The vaccine passport will be Quebec, but public health officials implemented in places with high Shelters hope pandemic capacity and a high rate of contact, See Page 4 Quebec to implement will spur solution to city's such as festivals, bars, restaurants,

"hIt'soanmoppeorltuenisty fsornusetosmsake ctherciasseifos r what can be done and hopefully gather support from the public," Sam Watts says. Author of the article:Jason Magder • Montreal Gazette Publishing date:Aug 09, 2021 • Sam Watts is hoping the control. Even the mayor speculated pandemic will be the catalyst that that homelessness has doubled. We spurs politicians to finally put an end to have no data to suggest that, but the the city’s homelessness crisis. problem has become much more “This pandemic potentially visible, that’s for sure.” gives us the opportunity for the first Despite the heartbreaking time to look at the overall system and sight of homeless people setting up say: ‘We can do better than this,'” he tent encampments in various parts of said in an interview with the Montreal the city, or hanging out in areas like Gazette on Monday. Milton Park in increasing numbers, With fewer shelter spots Watts said he’s optimistic available because of hygiene homelessness is an issue that can be measures, the number of Montrealers resolved. The Welcome Hall Mission has temporary dorms available at its de without homes may not have grown, Watts said public outcry has Courcelle St. headquarters, but executive director Sam Watts says but the homeless have become more turned homelessness into an election more 24-hour centres are needed to address Montreal's homelessness visible, said Watts, who is the executive issue, with federal, municipal and crisis. PHOTO BY DAVE SIDAWAY /Montreal Gazette director of the Welcome Hall Mission. provincial campaigns expected to be Montreal is, fortunately, in a is only now starting to see the effects of “The pandemic really put a held over the next year. better state than most major urban a shortage of affordable housing, he spotlight on something that had largely “It’s an opportunity for us to centres in North America, according to said. He estimates that while roughly been hidden,” Watts said. “Before that, make the case for what can be done Watts, and it’s even better off than 3,000 people in the city are homeless it was largely assumed that places like and hopefully gather support from the Vancouver, Ottawa and . Welcome Hall Mission had this under public,” he said. Compared with those cities, Montreal See Page 4 Shelters hope 2 The North American Filipino Star August 2021

the past, but during this tehnoclogical of our “ever-more-technological From the Publisher’s desk age, the more education one has the society”, and that “our society must better it is to find a good job or to significantly improve its STEM manage a business. The school has education across all income levels and The implications and always been the place where children age groups and among both genders”. effects of the Fourth learn their fundamental skills starting Students cannot be from the age of six and until the age of complacent with what they were taught Industrial Revolution 20 to 25 when they graduate from or have learned. Instead, they should on education college. But nowadays, it is no longer be encouraged by both parents and a good idea to consider one's teachers to continuously upskill Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi education complete regardless of the through available resources. An number of degrees one has obtained. example of this type of course is called It is almost the beginning of global polity, from the public and It is more advisable to adopt or ‘’makerspace.’’ A makerspace is a another school year amidst rising private sectors to academia and civil subscribe to the idea that education is place where people work on projects concerns of the Delta variant of the society. not a process that stops suddenly after and network in schools. They “help Covid 19 pandemic. We have a lot to , A comparative description of a period of time. Rather, we must students develop their skills and think about but one important subejct the past Industrial Revolutions may always think that as long as we live, we creativity, inspiring young learners to that must be brought up to people’s give us a good start in understanding must keep on learning, either formally engage with the STEAM agenda – attention is the fact that our life in what is currently affecting all of us. or informally. Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts general is not only related to health According to Schwab, ‘’The First Critics of our current and Mathematics .’’ concerns but also to ecnomic realities Industrial Revolution used water and educational systems have said that Evidently, education for the which affect our enjoyment of life in steam power to mechanize production. schools are not fast enough in Fourth Industrial Revolution known as comfort and relative prosperity. In the The Second used electric power to adapting to the needs of an ever Education 4.0 is quite complex and opening paragraph of an essay written create mass production. The Third changing economy and in providing requires not only the acquisition of vast by Klaus Schwab, Founder and used electronics and information much needed skills such as critical amounts of information but also Executive Chairman of the World technology to automate production. thinking, problem solving and keeping up to date with the trends in Economic Forum, he provides an Now a Fourth Industrial Revolution is creativity. What can educators and education and business. Moreover, overview of an important event which is building on the Third, the digital schools do to prepare students for the governments must not only support evolving in our midst which may not be revolution that has been occurring Fourth Industrial Revolution? and provide the resources to improve self-evident: since the middle of the last century. It is Economic experts recommend a our educational systems but must also We stand on the brink of a characterized by a fusion of curriculum based on STEM (science, be headed by progressive political technological revolution that will technologies that is blurring the lines technology, engineering, and leaders who understand the meaning fundamentally alter the way we live, between the physical, digital, and mathematics) In his article for the and purpose of education for a modern work, and relate to one another. In its biological spheres.’ World Economic Forum (WEF), Verizon society. Industrial Revolutions will scale, scope, and complexity, the If we begin to be aware of the Communications CEO Hans Vestberg always occur as it has always been transformation will be unlike implications of the Fourth Industrial notes: ‘’…that it’s important to instil part of human history and civilization. anything humankind has Revolution, we may just feel quality STEM skills to meet the needs experienced before. We do not yet overwhelmed and not know where to know just how it will unfold, but one begin to prepare ourselves. Most thing is clear: the response to it must people acquired basic education from be integrated and comprehensive, their elementary and secondary involving all stakeholders of the schooling which had been sufficient in LETTER TO THE EDITOR

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What will Canada’s 4th COVID-19 wave look lByiLkeslieeYou?ng GloHbal Neews re’s what the experts, datamatcsh caasey numbers Posted August 14, 2021 7:00 am Because of the high Updated August 15, 2021 4:50 pm vaccination rate, epidemiologists The fourth wave of COVID-19 suggest that we might not see that public health experts have been hospitalizations stay as closely linked warning about for months has arrived. to case numbers as they were in the “The latest national past. surveillance data indicate that a fourth “You’ll see cases going up, but wave is underway in Canada and that without the corresponding increase in cases are plotting along a strong hospitalization,” Janes said. He thinks resurgence trajectory,” said Dr. Theresa that this is because older people, who Tam, Canada’s chief public health are most likely to end up in the officer, at a press conference Thursday. hospital, tend also to be the most- However, experts say this wave vaccinated group. might look a little different than So even if younger people get previous ones. Here’s what could infected, they likely won’t be going to happen. hospital in the same numbers as older Canada’s chief public health officer Dr. Theresa Tam said on Thursday It’s already here people were earlier in the pandemic, he If the word of the chief public that national surveillance data shows a fourth wave of the COVID-19 thinks. pandemic is already underway, being driven by the Delta variant. health officer of Canada isn’t enough, cases.” numbers that include vaccine status. We might be seeing this now in data from PHAC shows a clear rise in Concerns about holding At first look, unvaccinated the U.K., he said, where case numbers cases. federal election during 4th wave people represent 81 per cent of non- are rising but hospitalization isn’t at the “We are seeing an increase in Concerns about holding federal ICU hospital patients with COVID-19 in same rate. numbers, and it’s mostly amongst the election during 4th wave the province. Partially-vaccinated Public health measures need to unvaccinated,” said Dr. Cora “Although we’re heading into the fourth people represent 8 per cent and fully- be maintained to control it Constantinescu, a pediatric infectious wave driven by the Delta variant, the vaccinated people are 11 per cent. How do we stop the fourth diseases specialist with the University good news is that millions of However, it’s worth wave? “Get vaccinated!” said of Calgary. Canadians have rolled up their sleeves remembering that most Ontarians — Constantinescu. “Our hospitalizations are going to help build a strong wall of 64 per cent — are fully vaccinated right “If you haven’t had the first up, at least in Alberta. ICU stays are vaccination production,” Tam said now. So, taking that into account, the dose, have the first dose,” she said, going up as part of the numbers from Thursday. unvaccinated are 15 times more likely but, “the second dose is much more magical.” our chief medical officer of health, and The unvaccinated are most at risk to be in hospital with COVID-19 than R0, which is how many people one Experts agree that people who people who are fully vaccinated: a rate Because children can’t be person infects, is going up, which is all aren’t vaccinated — including children of 1.5 per 100,000 compared to 0.1 per vaccinated, it’s especially important a sign of an outbreak or a wave.” under 12 who are too young to be 100,000. that those around them are, she said. Delta will drive it eligible for the shot — are most at risk Alberta is showing similar Aside from vaccination, she According to preliminary data in this wave of the pandemic. figures. According to the government thinks that it’s a good idea to continue from the Public Health Agency of “They call it the ‘pandemic of website, 92 per cent of hospitalized to wear masks indoors. “There’s no Canada, the Delta variant has the unvaccinated,’” Dr. Anna Banerji, cases since January occurred in doubt in my mind that when indoor essentially taken over in Canada. It was an infectious diseases specialist with unvaccinated people, or in people who masking went down, COVID came up only about eight per cent of cases the University of Toronto, told Global got sick less than two weeks after their again,” she said. during the week of May 9, 2021. News earlier in the week. first dose. Unvaccinated people Finally, if you’re feeling sick, By July 11, it was 78 per cent “The vast majority of people account for the vast majority of people even with just a sore throat, you should — though the data remains that will get COVID will be the with COVID-19 currently in Alberta stay home, she said. incomplete, so this number could unvaccinated people. So, adults who hospitals and ICUs. Over time, Janes said, “This change. continue to be unvaccinated or under- “I think the picture has pandemic may end in terms of waves However, public health experts vaccinated and children under the age changed for adults because of of hospitalizations and some serious have no doubt that Delta is driving the of 12 that are not eligible for vaccination and because of our illness, but it’s not going to go away. It’ll fourth wave. vaccination right now.” fantastic rate of vaccination in just simply become endemic.” “The Delta variant is a very With the combination of the Canada,” Constantinescu said. Public health practitioners are highly contagious variant with a very Delta variant affecting children in a way “I think this has changed for most concerned about serious illness, high R0,” said Craig Janes, director of that original strains of COVID-19 didn’t adults to a huge extent. We’re not he explained. “It’s really the spikes in the school of public health sciences at and lower vaccination rates in younger seeing the same hospitalization and hospitalization. I think when those level the University of Waterloo. people, “We’re going to see a lot of death, but for children, it’s the same. off, we don’t see those anymore, that’s “So it just means that we’re younger people getting sick and So because our kids are unvaccinated, when I think we can feel we can be going to see probably this doubling (of winding up in the hospital,” Janes said. the only way our children are safe is if somewhat confident that the pandemic case numbers) fairly quickly. With each Ontario recently started the numbers in our society are low.” is over.” week you’re going to see increasing releasing data on hospitalization Hospitalizations might not

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health workers and promised an certificates issued at vaccine centres. Quebecers (aged 12 and up) have From Page 1 Quebec to implement update within the next few days. As for They can also print out their QR code received a first dose, Dubé said schools, Dubé had no additional or request a paper version by mail. Tuesday. predict that it will account for half of information. A news briefing with Dubé says the application will He said he'd like to see all of them in the coming weeks. Education Minister Jean-François read the QR code sent to people who those who have had one dose receive While clients of certain non- Roberge is slated for tomorrow. have been vaccinated against COVID- a second by the end of the month, essential services, like bars, will need Dubé also announced the 19. meaning 1.1 million doses need to be to be vaccinated and have a QR code return of weekly news conferences Businesses will need to administered by Aug. 31. to prove it, the same will not be updating the province on the download an application to read the Quebec's civil liberties union, required of staff. Dubé says that epidemiological situation. QR codes and clients will need a the Ligue des droits et libertés (LDL), mandating vaccines for staff would 2 pilot projects different application to display them. though, is taking issue with the vaccine break labour laws. The passport will be used on Both apps should be available later passport system, saying there has not Children under 12 will not an app that is being tested this week. this month and will be free. been any time for a proper public need to provide proof of vaccination as Two pilot projects are planned: one at As for what kind of data the debate and citing concerns about data there are no approved COVID-19 a sports bar in Quebec City starting app collects? "None... It's only a security. vaccines for that age group. People 12 Wednesday for two days, another next reading application, that's it," Dubé Quebec joins two other and older, who are eligible for week at a gym in the Vimont district of clarified. provinces, Manitoba and Prince vaccination, will be required to. Laval, just north of Montreal. With regard to travellers from Edward Island, that require two doses When asked about people Dubé says the government other provinces and from outside the of a COVID-19 vaccine to access who cannot get the vaccine for medical wants to have the smartphone country, Dubé indicated that he is in certain non-essential services. reasons, Dubé said further details will application ready for use across the talks with the federal government to follow regarding exemptions. province by September, though people harmonize the vaccination passport With files from the Canadian Press, Quebec is still considering who do not have a smartphone will be with the ArriveCan app. Chloe Ranaldi, Radio-Canada making vaccinations compulsory for able to use the paper vaccination So far, 84 per cent of eligible

along with the Old Brewery Mission, From Page 1 Shelters hope opened a ward in the old Hôtel Dieu Could Quebec's vaccine passports hospital, which will house 100 people. at any time, fewer than 1,000 actually It will operate 24 hours a day, seven expose your personal info? live on the streets. days a week, and aim to ensure that Experts say risk is low but QR codes can But Mathieu says a less However, there is one worrying when residents check out, they will be be easily read by third-party apps scrupulous business owner or employee trend, and that is the growing moving into permanent housing. Josh Grant · CBC News · Posted: Aug could build or purchase a third-party app homelessness among Indigenous Watts is calling on more such 21, 2021 4:00 AM ET | Last Updated: that instead saves their data, which also people, many of whom hang out in solutions. August 21 includes where a customer received Cabot Square and Milton Park. In He described overnight Patrick Mathieu says creating an their vaccinations and if they have recent months, both Resilience shelters and day shelters as a form of app that can read the contents of contracted COVID-19. Montreal and the Open Door day emergency room in the hospital. Now, Quebec's digital vaccine passports isn't No location data is accessible shelters have received funding to there needs to be more services that hard to do. from the QR code. expand their services in those areas, available to provide what he calls a The co-founder of Hackfest, an Patrick Mathieu is the co- but even those who run the shelters continuum of care, and that includes annual hacker event in Quebec City, founder of Hackfest, an annual event in say they are not a permanent solution, mental health services, addiction says two of its members built an app that Quebec City and a community of could access a person's name, date of hackers in the province. The group only a Band-Aid fix. Groups are counselling and rent assistance to help birth and vaccination status by scanning pokes around online looking for possible lobbying for 24-hour centres with people get off substances and stay off the QR code provided to Quebecers by security issues and alerts organizations support and counselling services. the street. the Health Ministry. so they can fix them. (Radio-Canada) While Watts said shelters like The Welcome Hall has the Open Door are necessary, they "Two [people] that are not " Obviously the risk is low," said apartments available at its de experts in this at all … built an Mathieu. "But it exists because the only help keep people alive, rather Courcelle St. headquarters. Those are than getting them into permanent application where you scan [the QR government chose technology that is not temporary dorms that serve as an code]," said Mathieu. They built the app secure for privacy." housing or breaking addiction habits. interim step toward finding permanent in about 20 hours. Mathieu says it's not just the QR More services are needed to get to the housing. Starting Sept. 1, Quebecers will code that could be exploited — Hackfest root problems causing homelessness “We’ve gotten 300 people have to show proof of vaccination to also found a bug in the app when it was and to help people stay off the street housed permanently during the access certain non-essential activities. being developed that led to over once they find housing. pandemic, and that’s just us,” he said. Businesses will have access to a free 300,000 QR codes being exposed “It breaks my heart because “There’s no question we need more app from the government that simply whenever I see people who are resources, but we need to apply those tells the user whether or not a customer See Page 13 Could Quebec’s vulnerable, I see potential that is not resources in a wise way. If you don’t do is adequately vaccinated. being utilized,” he said. “There has got that, then all you get is a patch. to be a way to change the system, Unfortunately, the system we have because clearly the patchwork we inherited is one of patches, when it have been doing is not working. should move to problem solving.” (Milton Park) is almost a case study for why we have to stop doing what we have been doing and start doing something different.” To be clear, Watts isn’t advocating for governments to stop funding day centres. He’s calling for more resources to be available to address the entirety of the homeless problem. “This is a policy problem,” he said. “It takes changes at the policy Starting on Sept. 1, Quebecers level. (Day centres) are just going to will have to show proof of keep people alive, which is necessary. vaccination to access some non- essential services like bars, In Montreal, we should be better than restaurants, gyms and music that. We have the resources. There festivals. Cyber security experts might be a housing crisis, but that say because the codes are not doesn’t mean there aren’t apartments encrypted, the personal info in the available. We just have to be more codes is fairly easy to access. creative to find them.” (Submitted by the Government of Last month, Welcome Hall, Quebec) www.filipinostar.org August 2021 The North American Filipino Star 5

Montreal in 2024: A $7 billion Biden owns the Afghan exit debacle, but his six predecessors are also to blame budget and a $780 million “hole” By Gus Mercado (Op. Ed.) of Saigon. Thousands of Afghan civilians By BRUNO BISSON, La P resse Torstar “This is a serious document, In analyzing the military and stormed the airport and tried to climb Fri., Aug. 20, 2021timer3 min. read which was prepared by the professionals human tragedy that is unfolding in aboard the US transport MONTREAL - The City of of the City’s finance department, with the Afghanistan, George Santayana’s planes however way they could. Some Montreal predicts that its annual budget City’s secretary general and the City’s warning rings loud and clear: “Those held on to the underbelly of the plane will exceed the $7 billion mark by 2024, treasurer,” insisted Dorais. who ignore history are doomed to repeat and fell to their death. About 650 Afghans and that it will be necessary to work hard This “pre-electoral” portrait of it.” In trying to justify the were allowed to board the US Air Force to fill gaps totaling $780 million over the city’s finances should also make it U.S.’ sudden and chaotic withdrawal C17s and flown to safety. But the optics three years, according to the “preliminary possible to measure the feasibility of the budgetary framework” released commitments of mayoral candidates

from Afghanistan, President Joe Biden from the chaotic evacuation were Thursday by the administration Plante- against the figures appearing in these and his Secretary of State Antony Blinken gruesome and did not bode well for Dorais. budget forecasts. assured the American people that the President Biden and his administration The chairman of the executive But what exactly are these numbers withdrawal “will not be another Saigon, who are now being blamed for the committee, Benoit Dorais, presented this saying? or another Bay of Pigs fiasco.” catastrophe. All they could offer for the largely theoretical accounting exercise Alas, televised news from the intelligence failure that led to the rushed An increase in spending of $900 Afghan airport showed a grim spectacle evacuation is the lame excuse that the fall as an unprecedented effort at budgetary million transparency. It aims to provide the In 2021, Montrealers took that was eerily similar to the of Kabul came much faster than population with a true picture of the state advantage of a property tax freeze evacuation of the Vietnamese from the expected and that the 300,000-strong of public finances on the eve of the next rooftops of the US Embassy by US municipal election campaign. See Page 18 Montreal in 2024 military helicopters during the fall See Page 18 Biden owns

www.filipinostar.org 6 The North American Filipino Star August 2021

Blind Filipino Canadian Woman EmpBoy: Towny A.eSanrJusan, OCaT-Rnetired d

Engages Fellow Blind CaD'CnENTaEX),da ireagistnereds charitable nurses, teachers, police officers, organization in Pickering, Durham students, seniors, and persons with

anxiety, and difficulties at times to herself, is not a total disappointment, she said. Emotionally stable and philosophically strong, the visually challenged Elen cites instances that allow her to bravely "face the world" and pursue her passion to do the best she could in helping others in similar Elena Laude Aguilar, a BPS Person situations. and Co-founder, D'CENTEX A graduate of AB Economics Being a person with a physical and with advanced credits in MA in disability especially a "woman of colour", Economics from Centro Escolar Group photo of ‘’Eye Believe Eye Can’’ of BPS participants in Atimonan, is considered a great burden to people University, Philippines, E. L.Aguilar has Quezon 2020. with such an affliction and misfortune. taught as a college instructor at Region. The Centre provides education, other disabilities. The Event engages But not to Elena Laude Aguilar, a Filipino Roosevelt College-Marikina, National coun-seling, language instruction, BPS adults 30 years of age or older who Canadian woman who has been a College of Business Administration- employment support, job search are active "white cane users" and who resident of Toronto for the past 17 years. Quezon City, and Colegio de San Juan programs, and information programs on experience and enjoy fun activities Elen or "Mato" to her family and friends, de Letran-Manila. She is a current Canadian culture and life for landed showcasing their orientation and immigrants, refugees, caregivers, mobility techniques as well as their newcomers, and the disadvantaged in physical, mental, emotional, and tactile the Greater Toronto Area. The hub also abilities. offers integrative community living Decidedly extending her services for the Blind and Partially experience and advocacy work, E. Sighted( BPS) clientele as well as free Aguilar became the Founder and Personal Support Workers training, with Executive Director of the "Eye Believe a college partner, to address the Because Eye Can" organization in her shortage of PSWs and healthcare home province. On March 8, 2020, she workers in Ontario, Canada. organized the entity in collaboration with A strong advocate and the Association for People with volunteer for the functional develop- Disabilities under the Philippine ment of blind and partially blind Department of Social Welfare and individuals through activities of Development(DSWD) in Quezon stimulating intellectual, physical, and Province. The non-government social skills for normal integration into organization aims "to empower the blind community living, Elen continues to and partially sighted Quezonians to be Members and volunteers of BPS Filipino-Canadians and Canadians in perform community outreach activities. independent and become valuable 2019 ‘’Amazing Race’’ event in Toronto. She co-created and served as event members working toward barrier-free who is declared a legally blind person in member of the Ontario-based Philippine coordinator of the “Amazing BPS environments" through significant and Canada's living standard and working Teachers Associa-tion(PTAC), an Racing Cane Challenge Canada” under sustainable projects and programs. environment, said her "physical organization of internationally-trained the direction and guidance of “Eye Looking to the future and impairment is not a personal hindrance and experienced educators from the Believe Eye Can SEE” (Self-assured, hoping to continue her "personal nor an end-at all impediment, but a big Philippines. Empowered, Engaged) of the passion and mission', Elena Laude challenge and opportunity to people like The sight-impaired D’CENTEX. It is the first and unique Aguilar, despite the uncertainties of the her" especially when one still would want Torontonian, a breast cancer survivor for community event in Toronto for the Blind pandemic but purposefully together with to contribute and share her skills and 20 years also, has built an impressive and Partially Sighted (BPS). her partners and supporters, is fully talent to society. resume while working and living in her Started in July 2015 with only committed and determined to engage E.L. Aguilar, who hails from adopted country. To her professional five diversified BPS participants and 15 and empower those willing to help Atimonan, Quezon, Philippines became credit, in 2008, Elena Aguilar together sighted volunteers, the event has grown themselves "to maximize their potentials legally blind 2 years after immigrating to with FilCan social workers Armela V. in popularity each year to include deaf- and self-worth" and work "towards a Canada in 2004. She is an active "white Marano and Lailani M. Cuevas, co- blind participants and is supported by barrier-free society built by people with cane user" to guide her daily activity. Her founded, and is the Secretary-Treasurer more than 100 volunteers -- caregivers, vision impairment". disability, although it causes some fear, of Durham Centre of Excellence(

Canada moving forward with a proof of vaccination for international travel August 11, 2021 – Ottawa – While with Indigenous partners across the they return home. required and the related benefits that Canadians should continue to avoid country to ensure that a proof of Travellers will be able to submit may be provided such as reduced or no non-essential travel worldwide, the vaccination credential responds to the their proof of vaccination in ArriveCAN testing or quarantine requirements. recognizes that needs and rights of Indigenous peoples. (mobile app or Canada.ca/ArriveCAN) Canadians who do not have a proof of proof of vaccination credentials will The Government of Canada is when coming back to Canada. While the vaccination can travel outside the support the re-opening of societies and working with provinces and territories to focus is on a digital proof of vaccination, country, but they may have to quarantine economies. develop a secure pan-Canadian we will also make sure that these or meet other requirements at their Canadians are looking for a approach. This plan is based on advice documents are accessible for all destination country, and they will be more reliable and secure way to from our public health officials with Canadians who may need to use them. subject to mandatory quarantine and demonstrate their COVID-19 vaccination priority placed on the safety and security The Government of Canada testing upon return to Canada. history to foreign and Canadian border of all Canadians. encourages everyone who is able to do Canadians should always officials. To that end, the Government of For Canadians who decide to so, regardless of travel plans, to get check the Government of Canada’s Canada is collaborating with the travel, using a proof of vaccination will vaccinated. Vaccination with a complete travel advice and advisories, as well as provinces and territories to develop a provide foreign border officials with the series of approved COVID-19 vaccines the entry and public health proof of vaccination that will facilitate vaccination history needed to assess provides individuals with substantial requirements of their destination cross-border travel, while reducing the whether a traveller meets their public protection against the virus. country, before booking a trip. risk of spread and importation of COVID- health requirements and provide a Destination countries determine 19. We are also continuing to engage trusted and verifiable credential for when if or what type of proof of vaccination is www.filipinostar.org August 2021 The North American Filipino Star 7

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BFyi: lTiopnyiAn. oSa-nCJuaann, OaCdT-Riaetirned Entrepreneur and Baker vies for Member of PTaherolthiear tmwo Leibneratl MSP eCaandtidates are RECHIE VALDEZ has been Elizabeth Rosaldo Quinto for Oxford acclaimed on August 15, 2021, to be County (Ontario), and Virginia Austria- the Official Candidate for Member of Bremner for Vancouver-Kingsway(B.C.). Parliament for Mississauga-Streetsville, Any of the three could become the Ontario by the second Filipino and the first Filipina to (LPC) in the September 20, 2021, be elected Member of Parliament since federal election. the election of Filipino Canadian MP Rey Pagtakhan more than 22 years ago. The A mother of two, Rechie Valdez years...just before turning 40." Computer Science from the University of Filipino Canadian communities across was a corporate banker for 15 years with Currently, R. Valdez is the vice- Windsor in 2003 and has completed the Canada are decidedly hopeful though cross-enterprise expertise in reporting, president for sales and marketing of Leadership Development Program at that all the three Pinay MP candidates project management, change Paper Crane & Co., the Paper Crane BMO Insitute for Learning in 2016. will turn out successful to represent and management & strategy and turned into Express Catering & Co., and Battle Rechie Valdez becomes the articulate the Filipino voice in the House a serial creative entrepreneur, and Canada. She is also the owner of third Filipino Canadian woman to having of Commons. published baker. Rechie professed that Chietopia Bakery, a specialty bakery in been acclaimed by the Liberal Party of she became a "baker + podcaster + Mississauga. A sports enthusiast and Canada( LPC) to be an official candidate non-profit executive + apparel marketer fundraiser, she is a graduate of BCS for Member of Parliament in Canada. + basketball newbie in a few short Trudeau calls federal election, voters to go to the polls Sept. 20

Green Party Leader Annamie Paul, Bloc Quebecois Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet, NDP Leader , Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole and Liberal Leader are seen in this composite image. (Images via The Canadian Press) OTTAWA -- Justin Trudeau has Following his meeting with “Canadians deserve their say, to Blainville, Que. for a brief meet and set in motion an early federal election, Simon—who has been the Queen’s and that’s exactly what we are going to greet with local candidates and sending voters to the polls on Sept. 20 representative in Canada for less than a give them,” Trudeau said. He is kicking supporters at a cafe patio. Selfies are and setting up his re-election bid as a month— Trudeau spoke to reporters off his campaign Sunday afternoon with one fixture of Trudeau’s appearances chance for Canadians to have their outside Rideau Hall. There, he sought to a virtual townhall with candidates. that haven’t fallen victim to the voices heard about who they want to frame the rationale for a pandemic “After making it through 17 pandemic, now they’re just taken with lead the country at this pivotal moment election while reopening and months of nothing like we’ve ever masks on. in the pandemic. vaccination efforts are still underway, experienced, Canadians deserve to Trudeau will be finishing the day The prime minister and Liberal and given he’s managed to maintain the choose what the next 17 months, what in his home riding of Papineau, leader visited Gov. Gen. Mary Simon at confidence of the House of Commons. the next 17 years and beyond, will look Que. Rideau Hall Sunday morning where she “The decisions your like. And I know that we have the right All other federal party leaders accepted his request to dissolve the government makes right now will define plan, the right team, and the proven kicked off their campaigns with remarks 43rd Parliament and draw up the 338 the future your kids and grandkids grow leadership to meet that moment,” he in which they framed their focus for the writs, triggering a summer election. up in. So in this pivotal, consequential said. “So to the other parties: Please race, and called out Trudeau for With voting day scheduled for moment, who wouldn’t want a say? Who explain why you don’t think Canadians triggering the vote while the country is Sept. 20, the campaign will be 36 days, wouldn’t want their chance to help should have the choice? Why you don’t still trying to rebound from the last 17 the shortest possible election period decide where our country goes from think that this is a pivotal moment?” months. Facing just over five weeks of here? Canadians need to choose how It was a more pared-down first While the opposition parties campaigning, Canadians will be we finish the fight against COVID-19 and day on the campaign trail than he’s had have criticized Trudeau's timing, arguing weighing the pitches from each party to build back better,” Trudeau said, facing in previous elections. He held a virtual that the Liberals are unnecessarily determine who they feel is best to carry a series of questions from reporters townhall with candidates from a studio putting their own political interests the country through the rest of the about why he called the vote after he setup inside a downtown Ottawa hotel pandemic, and out of it.under federal and his caucus stated multiple times a which the party could rely on throughout See Page 18 Trudeau calls law. pandemic election was not in their plans. the campaign. He then travelled by bus www.filipinostar.org 8 The North American Filipino Star August 2021

to know that she speaks four everything about our city and the languages- English, French, Tagalog diversity of it. Every neighborhood has (Philippine national language), and something different to offer and Spanish! A feat rarely achieved by any depending on what you’re looking for, PERSONALITY kababayan (fellow Filipino)! you will be able to find it across the Stephanie Valenzuela is a city.” former Director of Communications Stephanie pays homage to her and Public Relations, Fundacion la Paz parents for the strong values they have OF THE MONTH Comienza Con los Minores, Mexico in instilled in her when she was young. Monteray, Nueva Leon, Mexico. She’s Her parents also considered a must to currently the director of know how to speak Tagalog so she can Communications of the Filipino communicate with relatives in the Heritage Society of Montreal (FHSM). Philippines. She is keen to promote our When I asked her why she culture. She is proud to say that entered the world of politics instead of Filipinos are extremely hard-working other professions, she explained, “I and dedicated, which one can easily feel that politics is more of a calling observe in places where they work. than a career. I knew very early on in She hopes people will be happy to my childhood I was interested in taste pancit and egg roll, two common improving our society with the people’s Filipino dishes. power revolution in the Philippines and Stephanie frequently visited the stories my mother would tell me the Philippines since the age of 2 years about martial law during this time. As I old to see relatives in Mandaluyong started to learn more about politics and and Tarlac. She likes trying to visit a how it affected every aspect of our new destination such as Bicol. She last lives, I knew I wanted to focus all of my visited Palawan and Baguio in 2019. attention on studying it after high While she was born and raised here in school. However, I never actually Montreal, her highlights in visiting the thought I would ever run one day as a Philippines will always be part of her candidate. It wasn’t something I conversations with people. She extols actually thought I can do because as a the traits of Filipinos who she little girl I never saw anyone who describes as welcoming and generous looked like me up on the podium.” and “even when they don’t have much Stephanie is running as a for themselves, they are always Councilor for the district of Darlington offering to everyone else. “ in Cotes-des-Neiges, Notre Dame de Do you wonder what she does Grace. She chose to represent the during ‘downtime’? In her words, “I district because of the growing anti- have always been an advocate for Asian sentiment and the inability of the physical and mental health. Personally, current administration to come up with I think it is important to find a medium concrete solutions. Furthermore, she is to relieve your stress and decompress. interested to solve the housing crisis. I go to the gym 3-4 times a week She feels that as one who grew up in regularly. I also enjoy cooking and the neighborhood, she’s the best hosting dinners with friends and person to push for solutions better than family.” If you are thinking of courting someone coming from elsewhere. She her, you are out of luck! She is already finds strength in growing up in the in a happy relationship with a fellow Stephanie Valenzuela Cotes des Neiges area where it is Filipino, born and raised here in I proudly present to you our Stephanie Valenzuela, daughter of sometimes called a melting pot. She Montreal. personality of the month of August proud parents Christina Tiburcio and knows firsthand the problems in the Would you like to know a fun 2021. Proudly I say because in the Romeo Valenzuela. community. Her experience in living fact about Stephanie? She is terrified of short time that I’ve known her, I find her For her education, Stephanie and working in Mexico made her learn scary movies. She never finishes the to be a sincere, personable and attended Simonne-Monet Elementary to listen and analyze facts before movie because she gets nervous and competent young woman. In school until grade 3 and then went to le coming to a conclusion. She said that just leaves the cinema or the room. everything she does, she does in Petit Chapiteau from grades 4 to 6. She once you’ve listened to problems, it Please invite her to watch comedy or earnest. Listening to her speak spent high school at Ecole becomes easier to solve. musicals etc. instead! eloquently on a subject matter, one will International de Montreal then went on Stephanie is running with If (I should say ‘when’) be quickly inspired by her wit. I’m to Vanier College and finally McGill Ensemble Montreal with former Mayor Stephanie wins as Councilor in talking about none other than University. And you will be impressed Denis Coderre at the helm. Stephanie Darlington district this coming looks up to Nelson Mandela and November, she resolves to serve to the Barack Obama as political mentors. In best of her ability. Darlington will be in my generation, we filled up our diaries very good hands. With the win, she’ll idolizing actors and actresses in the be the first Filipino to occupy an office film world. Stephanie seems to have in the municipal government level. different ‘idols’ to look up to. To her, Good luck to this very young, beautiful, Mandela and Obama remained their and energetic lady! Get to know her genuine selves and prioritized the and you will be as impressed as I am needs of the people. They were not and feeling blessed to have found a perfect but did everything they could gem in the heart of the Filipino for those they served. community! Closer to home, she found a worthy mentor in Councilor Lionel Perez who spent 12 years as a Fall 2021 Session Darlington District Councilor. A Starting soon constant presence in Filipino circles, Enrollment going on Lionel is popular and well respected. Stephanie has the privilege of learning English, French, PAB, from one of the best politicians in town. Accounting Courses When asked about her favorite Call 514-485-7861 to places in town, she says, “I love register by appointment

www.filipinostar.org August 2021 The North American Filipino Star 9

Photo Gallery of Community Events

Dennis Coderre Ensemble Montreal, Aug. 22, 2021 - MacKenzie King Park - Community Meet & Greet

Retirement Party for Councilor Marvin Rotrand organized by FCAAQ headed by Minda Mazzonne, August 15, 2021

LICENSED TEACHERS (Brevêt d’enseignement) NEEDED IN Retirement Party in Hawaiian attire for Councilor Marvin Rotrand, CONTINUING EDUCATION - PART with Councilor Lionel Perez, Stephanie Valenzuela, Sonny Moroz, and MP , August 15, 2021 TIME OR FULL TIME POSTS (Formation Générale des Adultes) Subject specializations in Math, Science, Technology, French, etc. Please send CVs immediately to: [email protected] or call office: 514-485-7861 Cell: 514-506-8753

Souvenir photo with Councilor Marvin Rotrand during the Denis Coderre Ensemble Montreal Meet & Greet at MacKenzie King Park, August 22, 2021

Councilor Marvin Rotrand surrounded by well-wishers for his retirement party at MacKenzie King Park, August 15, 2021 www.filipinostar.org

EDUCATION raises the bar but lowers the barriers to a rewarding career.

PROGRAMS • PAB/PSW Nursng Aide • OfficeAdministration - Executive Asst. - Acctg. Tech. - Legal Secretary - Medical Secretary Sunday French Class 1 & 2 Certificates - Receptionist

7159, ch. Côte des Neiges COURSES Montreal, QC H3R 2M2 Tel.: 514-485-7861 • LANGUAGES Cellphone: 514-506-8753 - English (FSL) - French (FSL) OTHER SERVICES - Filipino (Tagalog) - Other languages • Translation (On request) (French, English, Tagalog) • ACCOUNTING - Computerized Acctg. • Tutorials online or • Keyboarding in person • Word Processing • On site training (Microsoft Office) • Excel Spreadsheets • Business Seminars PAB Batch 12 graduation, July 8, 2017 12 The North American Filipino Star August 2021

Filipino Heritage Society Cooking of Montreal News Briefs with love provides food for the soul.

seasoning if desired. Garnish with some chopped cilantro. Enjoy!

The FHSM Administrators and Directors 2021 The Filipino Heritage Society continues to support this undertaking of Montreal (FHSM) celebrated Filipino as it ends its first year and is about to Heritage Month last June begin its second. Furthermore, the 2021 with four virtual events: first, the Newspaper Preservation Project aims launching of June as Filipino Heritage to collect, preserve, and digitize old Month, second, a play entitled “Mighty and current Filipino community Superhero,” third, an interview with newspapers. The organization is Mr.Enrique Rueda Sadiosa, who currently in the process of partnering wrote Dr. Jose Rizal Travels 2020, and with newspaper publishers and an finally, a celebration of the literary institution that will store, safeguard, works of Dr. Jose Rizal. Despite their and make these periodicals available online format, all the events were to a broad audience. successful and well-attended. These Most recently, FHSM has events, however, are not all that FHSM connected with other local Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk has recently done. organizations such as Quebec The organization promotes Community Groups Network (QCGN), Ingredients Pork Barbecue 2 tbsp Coconut Oil Filipino culture through its informative which aims to link English-speaking Ingredients 6 cloves Garlic, peeled and crushed 4 lbs. pork shoulder sliced into thin interviews and entertaining perform- organizations together across the 1 medium Onion, chopped pieces 2 inch-long fresh Ginger root, peeled Marinade ingredients and sliced ¾ cup soy sauce 2 tbsp Red Curry powder ½ cup juice extracted from calamansi 1 tsp ground Turmeric or lemon 1 Sweet Potato (or Yam), peeled and ¾ cup banana ketchup chopped into cubes 4 tablespoons dark brown sugar 3-4 cups left-over Chicken or 1 ( 3-lb) 2 tablespoons garlic powder Rotisserie Chicken, chopped or cubed 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 can Coconut Milk 2 teaspoons salt ½ can water (use the 14 oz coconut 1 ½ cups lemon or lime soda can and fill it halfway wirh water to Instructions measure) • Arrange the pork slices in a large 2 tbsp paleo-friendly Fish Sauce bowl. 1 large red Bell pepper, chopped • Add all the marinade ingredients. 1 tbsp brown Sugar (or Honey for Mix well. Cover the bowl and marinate paleo), adjust to taste for at least 3 hours. Note: I strongly Salt and Pepper, to taste suggest marinating overnight for best Heritage Hour for August 2021: Jason Patrimonio Palolan Instructions results. ances on Facebook and Youtube. To province, and PROMIS, a network of • Heat the oil in a large, heavy • Fasten the marinated pork together serve the community, FHSM connects support for newly arrived immigrants cooking pot with a lid. Saute the using bamboo skewers. through its outreach projects and and refugees aiming to ease their garlic, onion and fresh ginger until • Heat-up the grill. Start to grill your educates through Heritage Hour and integration into the Quebecer society. aromatic about 1-2 minutes. Adjust the Filipino Style pork BBQ for 3 to 5 their computer literacy FHSM hopes to build our relationship heat to the lowest setting and add the minutes per side until the meat is programs. Thegroup continues to with these organizations to broaden curry powder and ground turmeric to thoroughly cooked. Make sure to work on two major projects, our support for our community the onion mixture and stir. always baste the BBQ when flipping it particularly La Ville Extraordinaire and members and access resources • Add the sweet potatoes and over. Note: the basting sauce the Newspaper Preservation needed in terms of minority rights and chicken. Pour the coconut milk plus ingredients are the same as the Project. La Ville Extraordinaire, a cultural and social integration. In terms 1/2 a can of water, fish sauce and marinade ingredients minus the lemon three-year research project headed by of a more direct approach with our some freshly ground pepper, to taste. soda. Dr. Cynthia Hammond of Concordia Filipino community, we will hopefully •Bring to a boil, cover and then • Serve with spicy vinegar. University, is a federally-funded oral be able to work with the Filipino Family simmer on low for 8-10 minutes or • Share and enjoy! history project that will highlight the Services organisation, which will truly until the sweet potatoes are tender. urban stories of older make a difference and impact the • Add the chopped bell peppers and Montrealers. The Filipino community needs of the the brown sugar or honey to balance “Cooking is at once in Montreal is one of four groups community. out the flavor (not to make it sweet). included in this endeavour, which will child’s play and adult joy. If you talk to a man in a • Cook for another 2 minutes or until culminate with an exhibit at the language he understands, that the peppers are heated through. If the And cooking done with Mémoire des Montréalais(es) goes to his head. If you talk to sauce becomes too thick, simply add care is an act of love.” Museum. FHSM, as La Ville him in his own language, that some more water. Adjust the — Craig Claiborne Extraordinaire’s community partner, goes to his heart. www.filipinostar.org August 2021 The North American Filipino Star 13

McDonald Park on Clanranald, Montreal. politics to tend to his pharmaceutical It was a very well attended picnic. Led business. And the SWIS family is by the present President Bing Estopa looking forward to another picnic on were the following past presidents: August 28 at Coolbrook Chalet at Spring Joseph Gonzales, Trans Liganor, Elsa Gardens in the West Island. Montealegre, Carmen Caro, Procesa Even if Snowdon Councilor Gladyz, Nancy Karides, and yours truly. Marvin Rotrand is retiring, he doesn’t let President Bing’s hubby Kennedy was a problem go by without reacting to it. busy tending the barbecue. Guest was This concerns the renoviction in the Social Tidbits Sonny Moroz, candidate for Councilor, Cotes-des-Neiges/Notre Dame de Grace Community News Snowdon, ever friendly and ever area. For any other housing problems accommodating. The favourite subject (fire safety, cleanliness, mould, etc) matter of the day was “travelling” - where Councilor Rotrand suggests that tenants Fely Rosales Cariño to go after the pandemic. It seems that should call the Rental Board at 514-873- everyone wanted to leave for a while and 2245. Hi everyone! I apologize. I was 7:30PM. The national anthems were performed by Rose Ann Gines and Kerry come back fully refreshed. In the midst of it all, let’s be wrong; I spoke too soon. Yes, I Members of the Federation of mindful to be kind to each other. And I announced in the last issue that the Ann Christy Lemon. Alona Amano, the CCFAQ Secretary, gave the Invocation. Filipino Canadian Associations of want to encourage you with Romans pandemic was about to end. However, Quebec, FFCAQ, went to Lacolle, 12:12, “Rejoice in hope, be patient in the Delta variant was making its This was followed by the welcome address of the CCFAQ President Sir Quebec for its anniversary. It was also its tribulation, be constant in prayer.” entrance. In fact, health officials said President Minda Mazzone’s birthday. It God Bless and see you in the that it is more deadly and very Boco. After him came Sir James de la Paz, CCFAQ founder and administrator was really a day of fun as reported by next issue! transmissible. Today, CTV said that the Ciony Nueva, an invited guest. Delta variant is rising in Quebec. For who started the string of messages and video sent by the following dignitaries: This is a good news section! now, the only defense is the vaccine. Sonny Moroz has announced that the From page 4 Could Quebec’s Unvaccinated people are urged to roll up His Excellency Rodolfo Robles (Philippine Ambassador to Canada), Sir basketball court at Parc de la Savanne is online. He says they notified the their sleeves and do it. South of the ready for use. Another good news from border, they dangle some sort of Anthony Housefather (MP, Mont Royal), developer, Akinox, and the issue was Hon. Dominique Anglade (MNA, St. Tenne Rose Dayandante, co-anchor of resolved in 24 hours. But he doesn't compensation to entice people to get Michael Davantes of Pinoy Pa Rin, is the vaccinated. Is there such an offer in Henri-St. Anne), Councilor Lionel Perez have a lot of confidence in the (Darlington District, Leader of the opening of a new restaurant called MC company. Quebec? I heard there is. I will verify for Restaurant et Traiteur located at 4677 Opposition, City of Montreal), Councilor "Their development next issue. Avenue Van Horne. Is that you, Tenne Marvin Rotrand (Snowdon District), Hon. environment is exposed on the web. The short good news of the Rose, sampling the dishes? And guess Mitchell Brownstein (Cote St. Luc We can see their source code, they expected demise of the pandemic made what, there’s a new Filipino restaurant in people think of celebrating. First to do it Mayor), Sir Jerremias Singson (Past have bugs," he said. Supreme Commander, Vice Governor of the West Island called Cebu’s Taste on last June 16, 2021 was Maria Shakespeare Street in DDO. Word of Developer, Health Ministry Kuersteiner. She brought us to Peter Cod Ilocos Sur), Hon. Luis Chavit Singson insist system is safe (Narvacan, Ilocos Sur Mayor), Sir Sonny mouth is that it’s very good! Restaurant in Saint-Anne-de-Bellevue. Miscellaneous News! The In a written statement to CBC News, Guests included Mar & Puring Bamba, Moroz (Riding Assistant, Government of Akinox CEO Alexander Dahl says the Canada), Stephanie Valenzuela (Director FHSM under Chairman Al Abdon has Carlito & Thelma Arlegui, June d’Silva, company has been working closely of Communications, FHSM), Sir Joe lots of programming to offer every week. Father Chinnappan Laurence, Deacon of with government experts in cyber Damasco (KGOR, Canada Region Nola Manuel of the Filipino Canadian St. Luke’s Pete Tapia, Father Bertrand, Association of West Island (FCAWI) will security, privacy and protection of Parish Priest in St. Luke in the West Commander), Sir Rey Balansi (Past Area Commander, Eastern Canada Region), soon begin her Zumba class in a West personal information throughout the Island, and yours truly. Our seafood feast Island park. Details will come later. Now, development process. was welcomed after a year and a half of Sir Bert Abiera (Knights of Rizal Senior Adviser, Eastern Canada Region), Lady speaking of green thumbs, you should He says the vaccine passport lockdown. After the dinner, Maria baked see the gardens of Benny Bote, Bing and everything in the app was two sumptuous cakes and all of us Esphie Manaog (Kababaihang Rizalista Estopa, Linda Danzil, Atina Cleofas, Lolit thoroughly audited and approved. proceeded to her home at Hope Street, President ), Sir Alfonso Abdon (FHSM Odulio, Melinda Antonio, and Claire Much like people are DDO for tea and coffee and after dinner Chairman), Sir Felix de Luna (KGOR, Deputy Chancellor, Canada Region), Sir Boco, You will be delighted to see their responsible for protecting the drinks. On another date last week of vegetable plots. July, the same crowd also celebrated the Romeo Remigio (FAMAS President), information on their medicare cards Lady Estela Tablas (Pangasinan And guess who are Zeny and driver's licenses, Quebec's Health birthday of Carlito Arlegui at Au Vieux Kharroubi’s furry visitors! They are the Duluth Restaurant on St. Jean Boulevard Association President), and Sir Gerry Ministry says it's important to not Danzil (MacKenzie Central Chapter five kittens she calls her lovely pets; they publicly post your QR code, and only in the West Island. After the delicious just appear in her backyard every meal meal, we again proceeded to Maria’s President). In addition were Sir Hector share it with businesses that require Racuya (Montreal Chapter Commander), time. It gives her pleasure just watching proof of vaccination. residence to enjoy her treats as well as them play afterwards. Then they Sir Dante Tabamo (NDG Chapter Risk of 'malicious intent' her signature cakes. Maria, we are disappear and later come back for the Commander), Sir Angelito Manuel (West Mathieu says someone with indebted to your culinary skills! next meal. Island Chapter Commander), Sir Julius "malicious intent" who owns several Let’s say Happy Birthday also to Have you seen Bert Abiera’s Edith Valenzuela who received a Abad (Mackenzie Chapter Commander), restaurants and bars could track the Sir Willie Pasion (Maharlika Chapter non-stop dancing with several ladies? poignant poem from loving husband Please see Al Abdon’s Facebook page. movement of a specific client as their Milo. Friends and family helped her Commander), and Manny Lagasca QR code is scanned by third-party (Chess and Social Club President). It must have been during Bert’s 80th celebrate. And I can’t forget my dear birthday at the Hellenic Community apps at their establishments. friend Trans Liganor who celebrated her Entertainment participants who But he says a more likely enlivened this important event were Center at 5757 Wilderton, Montreal. He birthday on August 6 at Van Horne Park scenario is an individual employee performers whose musical credentials is warning everyone to get ready with with Monique Regacho’s casino gang. looking someone up online. deserve notice and attention. They were: your dancing shoes as his 90th is fast After lunch they had a bingo session. "You go to a restaurant, the Thea Cruz (singer, songwriter, multi-gold approaching! What a guy! Here is a very important event in Still apple picking? Nora Arcalas person at the door who scans your QR the Filipino calendar, the 123rd Filipino medalist at World Championship of Performing Arts, WCPA), vocal solo by and friends went apple picking last code thinks you're super cute, gets Independence Day held in July this time. month. After their harvest, they showed your name …stalks you on Facebook, The Council of Canadian Filipino Astrid Torrico singer/songwriter, medalist their picked apples which looked too gets into your DMs and harasses you," Associations of Quebec (CCFAQ) at WCPA), vocal solo by Michelle Vargas tempting to bite. he said. President Sir Dario Boco and his Lao (singer/songwriter), vocal solo by The Seniors of West Island and He says it's frustrating the Executive Board prepared a virtual Michelle Villanueva, dance numbers by the Pamana ng Luzviminda, Visayan Suburbs (SWIS) recently had a picnic government went with a system that program where invited guests were able last August 13, 2021 for five August-born to participate. Because of the pandemic, Dance Group, and dance exhibition by has the potential to be exploited, when Sir & Mrs. Boy Galang. Sir Gerry Danzil members: SWIS Chairman Connie Quebecers already have physical proof we didn’t see the usual parade of Fabro, Chit Bas, Dory Isada, Fely beauties in decorated floats…etc. Also was on hand to give the closing remarks. of vaccination. If you participate in a virtual celebration Bisares, Tina Oana and Pete Ison. We "They put...20 plus million missing were the usual folk dances, had good food and good crowd at martial arts, Filipino association booths, you feel that you are not really missing dollars into something that is not anything. It was a lot of fun and the Centennial Park in DDO. At lunch time, privacy enabled, [has] tons of security and varied Filipino cuisine served in Frank Baylis, former MP of DDO- response was favorable. issues and in the end you can still go tents. Let’s hope we get to enjoy them Pierrefonds-Roxboro arrived and July 24 saw the Quebec with a piece of paper." next year. everyone was delighted to see him. It The virtual celebration began at Association of Canadian Filipino with files from Sarah Leavitt Teachers (QACFT) held a picnic at was just a nice surprise. Frank left www.filipinostar.org 14 The North American Filipino Star August 2021

Kris Aquino recalls journey hints at new leading to ‘’ role: ‘A lot love, greets mystery man of painful parts’ on special day

"Queen of All Media" Kris Aquino

“Queen of All Media” Kris Aquino hinted at having a new love as she greeted the mystery man a happy birthday. In her Instagram account on Wednesday, Kris said she thought long before uploading her greeting because she will know that it will start a speculation. The mystery man, however, is Iza Calzado Kris’ savior, according to the host. Kris’ Iza Calzado looked back at tapped into our superpowers? What In the ABS-CBN adaptation, younger son also likes the guy so she her years-long journey to land a role a beautiful world I see,” she told Calzado will be playing as the “first decided to post her greeting. as Darna in the upcoming “Mars fans. “Celebrating the superhero in Darna” who will pass on her “I thought long and hard Ravelo’s Darna: The TV Series,” all of us today and always!” superpowers to her daughter Narda, whether to upload this, because I know saying the “painful parts” of it ABS-CBN announced that played by Jane de Leon. what kind of speculation I’ll be helped her prepare in becoming the Calzado was cast for the upcoming Production for the series has starting… BUT he really did come Filipino superhero. superhero series last week, an been delayed numerous times, even when my grief was unbearable; he “I honestly never thought or announcement that the actress before the pandemic. Locsin was continues to give me unselfish support dreamt I would be part of this iconic waited a long time to talk about. first tapped to reprise her role for a & comfort; he’s been around for all my project even as a child growing up, She revealed in a 2014 film back in 2014, but she had to exit ups and downs, health woes, and wanting to be an artista (actor),” the interview with TV host Boy Abunda the project due to a back injury and tears- plus Bimb likes him… most of all he makes me feel taken care of, actress admitted through her that she was supposed to play health reasons in 2015. secure, and SAFE,” Kris wrote. Instagram page yesterday, Aug. 14. Darna in GMA Network’s series Fellow Kapamilya actress “So he is deserving of this “The journey to this has adaptation in 2005, but the project was then cast for the birthday greeting that all of you are been 17 years for me with a lot of was eventually given to actress role, but she backed out in 2019 now seeing (care bears na kung anong painful parts that I have come to . after suffering from a finger injury. iisipin ninyo) BECAUSE for me he is accept with grace because I know Meanwhile, director Erik #special,” she added. this is part of my journey to Matti was supposed to direct the Kris’ followers were intrigued becoming my own kind of Darna,” “Darna” film, but he decided to leave regarding the post as they thought of she added. the project due to creative former Quezon City Mayor Herbert Given that the role was a differences. Matti was replaced by Bautista, lawyer Gideon Pena and long time coming for Calzado, she Jerrold Tarog, who also eventually Kapuso host Willie Revillame. The noted that the experience taught her let go of the project last January, this three, however, have different to believe in divine timing. She also time due to scheduling conflicts. birthdays. expressed hope that “Mars Ravelo’s The project has since been A quick Google search bared Darna: The TV Series” will make turned from a movie into a television that celebrities that are celebrating their viewers believe in the “hero that series. It will start filming in birthdays today include host Jhong Hilario, basketball player Rabeh Al- exists in all of us.” September, after De Leon exits the Hussaini and business tycoon John “[Imagine] the possibilities long-running series “FPJ’s Ang Gokongwei.  of coming together once we’ve all Probinsyano.” 

www.filipinostar.org August 2021 The North American Filipino Star 15

who support the streaming sites and she felt like “part of this recognition is make time for our virtual premieres — also because” of the said movie. thank you.) “Dito at Doon,” internationally Janine Gutierrez “[Thank] you for supporting titled “Here and There,” tells the story the industry and everyone who works of Len (Gutierrez) and Cabs (JC in it. [You] mean everything to us. Santos), two friends who develop a dedicates award from [Thank] you for coming with us on romantic relationship amid the this journey,” Gutierrez added. pandemic. She also extended her It will be available for NY Asian film fest to gratitude to the team behind “Babae streaming via Netflix worldwide at Baril,” which was included in the starting Sept. 2, according to movie fans NYAFF last year. Gutierrez shared that Gutierrez.  JaMill deletes YouTube channel with 12M followers to save relationship

YouTube sensations Jayzam Manabat and Camille Trinidad or Janine Gutierrez with her Rising Star Award trophy from the New York popularly known as 'JaMill.' Asian Film Festival Camille Trinidad and Jayzam than anything else.) Janine Gutierrez has finally (Our little lockdown film is so Manabat, known as the vlogger For his part, Manabat received the Rising Star Award trophy special to me and is even more couple JaMill, have officially quit explained that he and Trinidad just from the New York Asian Film Festival special that many were able to relate YouTube today for the sake of their want to live a “normal” and “simple (NYAFF) for her performance in “Dito to Len and Caloy and the never- relationship. life” together privately, as seen on a at Doon.” ending enhanced community Trinidad announced that video on his Facebook page. Gutierrez shared the good quarantine.) JaMill has signed off from vlogging “Gusto na namin ‘yung ganon news by sharing photos of her with “[As] we kept saying nung through a series of Twitter posts na simpleng buhay gaya nu’ng dati. the trophy via Instagram yesterday, press days namin for the film, sana today, Aug. 19. Ayaw na namin ng masyadong Aug. 23, as she dedicated her win to magsilbi itong paalala na kung ano pa “JaMill is now signing off. [But mataas, ang daming nakakakita movie supporters despite the man ang pinagdadaanan mo, hindi ka Jayzam and] Camille is [infinity],” she sa’min,” he told fans. “Gusto namin pandemic. nag-iisa,” the actress added. told fans while thanking the video- kami na lang nakakakita sa relasyon “[Thank] you so much to the (As we kept saying during the streaming platform. namin.” @newyorkasianfilmfestival for the press days for the film, I hope this will Trinidad stressed that the (We now want a simple life, Rising Star Award [white heart emoji] serve as a reminder that no matter deletion of the YouTube channel was just like before. We don’t want to be so grateful for your support of Filipino what you are going through, you are not a gimmick, explaining that she so high anymore, too many people films and creatives, for sharing your not alone.) and Manabat have decided to focus are seeing us. We want our platform and getting our stories out Gutierrez then dedicated her on their relationship. relationship to be more private.) into the world,” Gutierrez said. award to those who continue to “Di naman natin mape-please It was Trinidad who deleted She also thanked TBA support Filipino films despite cinemas lahat ng tao na sabihing issue lang ito the YouTube account, but Manabat Studios and the team behind “Dito being closed during the pandemic- or what. It’s about our relationship. said it was their way to prove to and Doon,” including co-star JC induced lockdown. Mas pinili namin mas maging okay themselves that their relationship Santos and director JP Habac, “[Hindi] madali pero andito ang relationship namin,” she said, at could go on outside vlogging. among others. ka. [Sa] mga bumibili ng ticket online, the same time asking for the public’s JaMill admitted they felt sad “[Our] little lockdown film is sumusuporta sa mga streaming sites respect. over the memories deleted with the so special to me at mas special pa na at naglalaan ng oras para sa mga (We can’t please everyone by vlog, but hope their fans will maraming naka-relate kay Len at virtual premiere — salamat,” she said. saying this is only an issue or what. understand that this will make for a Caloy at sa walang sawang ECQ,” (It is not easy but you are It’s about our relationship. We chose healthier relationship.  Gutierrez emphasized. here. To those who buy tickets online, to have a better relationship rather

www.filipinostar.org 16 The North American Filipino Star August 2021

16 The North American Filipino Star August 2021

Jinkee writes an Matteo Guidicelli hints emotional letter to at possible Sarah husband Manny Geronimo pregnancy Pacquiao after defeat to Ugas in Las Vegas

Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli planting a tree during their recent honeymoon.

Sen. Manny Pacquiao and wife JInkee Actor Matteo Guidicelli G??” @wilvie_11 commented. Jinkee Pacquiao wrote an than your record feats in Boxing, it stirred speculations that his wife “Is this another emotional letter to her husband is your love for God, dedication to might be pregnant endorsement from Nissan or just a Sen. Manny Pacquiao after his the Word, and desire to share following a cryptic post on social hidden message to your caption?” defeat to Cuban boxer Yordenis Jesus to every person you meet media. @mitchnepacina_salalila wrote. Ugas in Las Vegas, Nevada last that makes us admire you more. Saturday night (Sunday morning Always here for you, my babe! Manila time). On Instagram Aug. 22 Jinkee wrote: “To my dear husband Manny “Words cannot express how proud I am of the Man you are. I’m proud to be your wife. You mean the world to me and all our children. We love you so much. “We, your family, have seen how much you have toiled, sacrificed and given of yourself blood sweat and tears since the beginning when you dreamed of becoming world champion. In his Instagram account, “Family means a baby on “You never think of yourself Matteo posted that he’s thinking of the way...” @shapppopay and not afraid to risk your life on buying a bigger car for his family. commented. the ring time and time again “I’m thinking of getting a Last July, a video of Sarah because you love to make the “Win or lose on the ring You new family SUV,” Matteo wrote. blowing the candles in her birthday people happy. You have achieved are Forever the Champion of our One of his photos showed cake was posted online. Matteo was by the Grace of God far more than hearts. To all Our kababayans all him playing hopscotch or piko. watching from the side and you ever imagined. Yet, you never over the world, thank you for loving Instagram users reminded Sarah to wish for "babies." stop working to be your best. Manny . He loves you more than commented that Sarah might be “Babies! Babies, ha?” he “Over the years we have you know. expecting and Matteo might be said. become even more proud to be by “To You LORD, we continue hinting at playing with their baby Sarah and Matteo your side as you inspire us to be to Offer our lives. soon. celebrated their first wedding kind, giving and helpful to all. More “To God be all the glory!”  “Omgee! Preggy na si Sarah anniversary last February. 

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Action scenes It’s not personal. We were used to it They also enjoyed filming the action from the theater, where we do company scenes, which was a first for the calls and get notes about our Kim and Jerald on the director. “We were excited because performances,” Jerald said. “We can’t Direk Irene has always dreamed of settle for anything less.” doing action. Just because she’s a With the recent work they have advantages of real-life woman doesn’t mean she can’t do that done, Jerald and Kim would like to genre. So we’re very proud of what we believe that they have managed to did here,” Kim said. prove to people that their acting talents couples doing a movie “Doing action isn’t something aren’t just for comedy. “The best thing new for me,” Jerald said, “but I have about our projects, I feel, is that we always enjoyed it because there’s a were able to give good vibes and make sense of choreography to the genre.” our audience happy while humanizing Another plus to Kim and our characters,” he said. Jerald’s professional dynamics is that “Aside from comedy or they can assess each other’s work romantic comedy, ‘dramedy’ is a genre without taking it personally—something we want to pursue. We want to make they have grown accustomed to in people laugh, pero pipigain namin sila theater. “We don’t necessarily criticize sa dulo. And now they get to see us each other; we try to understand each doing serious action and drama,” Kim other’s thought process in the scenes. said. 

Jerald Napoles and Kim Molina While there are some show biz The end is near couples who are wary of being paired Directed by Irene Villamor, the action- together for a project, the opposite is drama film is set in precarious and true for Kim Molina and Jerald Napoles, uncertain times that have people who have starred in two movies this fearing that the end is near. “The two year. “I didn’t have second thoughts. characters believe that they can survive It’s always nice to work with your on their own. But then they fall for each partner in real life. I enjoy working with other. They wonder how can they love her, not just because she’s my each other when you feel like the world girlfriend, but because she’s a talented is ending anyway,” she said. actress,” Jerald told the Inquirer in a One advantage of doing a recent Zoom interview for their latest movie with your real-life boyfriend, Kim film, “Ikaw at Ako at ang Ending.” said, is that there’s no more ice to “I feel confident that, whatever break. She and Jerald are comfortable they give us, we will be able to deliver with each other from the get-go, to the best of our abilities,” he added. allowing them to focus on their The first time Jerald and Kim respective characters or scenes— worked with each other was in the especially those that require them to be musical play “Rak of Aegis” in 2014. intimate. Last June, they top-billed the comedy “There’s no more drama “Ang Babaeng Walang awkwardness, so I don’t have to worry Pakiramdam,” their debut film as a about building rapport anymore. And screen tandem. “I have been working that means we get to work faster, too,” with him for quite some time, so I know Kim pointed out. “If Je weren’t my his capabilities, talents and what he can partner, I wouldn’t have been offer. I’m always excited working with comfortable with some of the blockings brilliant actors like Je, whom I learn a lot we needed to do for this movie. In my from. I started out in this business as a past projects, with other actors, the singer, so I still consider myself a director had to be more careful.” newbie actress.” But while Kim, Jerald and Irene In “Ikaw at Ako,” which is now are close friends and goof around on available for streaming on Viva the set when the cameras aren’t rolling, CLEANERS NEEDED Entertainment’s one platform Vivamax, they made sure to keep things Jerald plays Martin, a hit man on the professional when it was time for work. Daytime or evening (after 6pm) run who ends up hiding at a beach “Direk Irene was respectful. Even if resort in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. There we’re friends, she would talk to me and office cleaning 5 days per week he meets Mylene (Kim), a prostitute ask for my permission when she wants (Monday to Friday) running away from her past and to use certain camera angles when searching for someone who will give shooting intimate scenes,” Kim related. Car required, $19 per hour. Call her genuine and unconditional love. “Afterwards, she would let us see the footage, ask for our thoughts, or if Michael 514 624-3437 we’re OK with it.”

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which is to make the ultra-rich pay their both chambers has died with the Neither the officials present nor From Page 7 Trudeau calls fair share…and invest that into health dissolution of Parliament, leaving it up to the chairman of the executive committee above those of Canadians who are once care and to housing and to justice for the next government to restart a wanted to comment on the again facing another wave of COVID-19 Indigenous people,” he said. legislative agenda. administration’s intentions on the eve of cases, all sides have already been He also accused Trudeau of During the process of the municipal poll. engaging in pseudo-electioneering all using the election to gain more power, dissolving a Parliament there are three The potential “strategies” for summer long. and walking away from important issues main steps: dismissing the senators and balancing the budget, presented in the Given the ongoing pandemic, like climate change. members; calling the next Parliament City’s document, remain rather vague: parties have had to map out public “He wants a majority, but why and ordering the writs to be issued; and review activities, change the health parameters in an effort to safely does he want a majority? It’s certainly setting the date for when Parliament will administration’s investment priorities or crisscross the country pitching not because he wants to help more next meet after the writs are returned reduce spending, for example. themselves, their candidates, and their people, or help people more, it’s only with the results. The negotiation of possible platforms. This has included various because he wants to help people less Writs are written orders agreements with higher levels of elements of protections depending on and people end up paying the price. The instructing the returning officer in each government, in particular for the financing each campaign, including mandatory reality is that he’s fed up with New of the 338 federal ridings to hold an of public transport, an increase in vaccination and regular rapid testing. Democrats pushing him to deliver more election to select a member of property taxes, the implementation of eco-tax measures to promote the O'TOOLE CAMPAIGN help to more people,” he said. “It’s clear Parliament. Conservative Leader Erin that in calling this election he’s walking The government, and the ecological transition’s goals and revenues O’Toole is participating in virtual-only away from a lot of things that could be bureaucracy in each federal department higher than expected from property events in Ottawa for the first day of his done.” and agency, will now enter a "caretaker" transfer taxes are among the avenues considered to increase the City’s campaign. PAUL CAMPAIGN mode in which major decisions are Responding to the election Green Party Leader Annamie limited. revenues. trigger, O’Toole said Canadians Paul launched her campaign from her Heading into the campaign, Budgets and revenues in 2021–2024 shouldn’t have to risk the gains they’ve coveted riding of Toronto Centre with a here's the current seat breakdown in the According to the City of Montreal, made over the last year and a half for rally, “mainstreeting,” and a virtual House of Commons: the current 2021 budget is of $6,166,498,700. The anticipated budgets “political games.” evening launch party with candidates. Liberal: 155 of 2022, 2023 and 2024 are “I hope that [Justin Trudeau’s] She said she’s approaching this Conservative: 119 $6,516,448,000, $6,728,604,700 and decision doesn’t cost Canadians too election the same way she approached Bloc Québécois: 32 $7,065,145,400 respectively. dearly. My wife Rebecca and I had the party’s leadership campaign. NDP: 24 2021’s actual revenue is of COVID-19, we know the fears and “With hope, with humility, with Independent: 5 $6,166,498,700. The anticipated revenue uncertainties that are out there. But let’s humour… and most of all, from start to Green Party: 2 for 2022, 2023 and 2024 is of be clear, this election is not about next finish, I hope with a great deal of honesty A party needs to win 170 seats for a $6,205,019,000, $6,183,741,100 and week, next month, or even next year, it’s and honour and I extend the same majority government. $6,285,923,000 respectively. about the next four years,” he said. invitation to all Canadians,” she said. “To O’Toole positioned himself as every person that is ready to be daring, With files from CTV News' Sarah Turnbull the leader with a “fresh” approach. to every person that is ready to strike out “I’m going to be presenting in that new direction toward a better From Page 5 Montreal 2024 From Page 5 Biden owns Canada’s recovery plan. I have a track future, I say ‘welcome’, I say ‘now is the Afghan army whom they had funded, imposed by the city center (some record of bringing people together from time,’ and I say, ‘join us.’” trained and armed to the teeth for 20 boroughs were added). And despite the my time in the military, my time in the Paul will spend most of the 36- years just gave up without a fight. The acrobatics that were necessary to private sector as a volunteer. I’m in this day campaign in her riding, where she is result was not surprising but still balance the figures in times of pandemic, for my children and your children,” he trying for a third time to win the seat and shocking. The Talibans occupied the the City still presented in November 2020 said. ultimately make her way to Parliament entire country effortlessly in just a few a balanced budget of 6.17 billion for the He said there are only two Hill. days. current year. options on the ballot for Canadians to In the 2019 federal election, World historians have a lot of In three years, according to choose from this election: “Canada’s voters reduced the 2015 Liberal majority sympathy for the people of Afghanistan, these forecasts, the city’s budget should Conservatives or more of the same from to a minority and now Trudeau is ready which for centuries carriedthe dubious reach just under $7.1 billion. That’s the Liberals and the other parties.” to gamble that his handling of the name “graveyard of empires.” Most almost a $900 million spending increase Making use of the party’s studio pandemic—and the unprecedented generations of Afghans never saw their over three years, up 14.6% from this setup in Ottawa, the leader who his financial support doled out— will propel country at peace. It was always at war, year’s budget. running his first federal race at the helm his party back to majority territory. and always occupied and oppressed. On the other hand, during the of his party, has two schedulded However, polling data issued Although the Afghan crisis is same period, the financial picture of the “telephone townhalls” with supporters in Friday by Nanos Research showed now Biden’s problem, at least six past US City forecasts higher revenues of barely Quebec and British Columbia. Liberal support dropping out of majority presidents share part of the blame. A brief $120 million for 2024, an increase of less The first was hosted by Saint territory after the election call was historical perspective may help in than 2% compared to this year. Laurent candidate Richard Serour and reported. understanding how we came to this. According to these fore-casts, the City’s included voter call-ins. While the next fixed election Unbeknownst to many, both Saddam currently foreseeable revenues would date isn’t until October 2023, minority Hussain of Iraq and Osama Bin Ladin of BLANCHET CAMPAIGN even decline slightly in 2023. The Bloc Québécois Leader Yves- governments rarely last the full four Al-Qaeda were original creations of the calculation of municipal tax revenues was Francois Blanchet meanwhile was in years between elections. U.S. Incredible but true. Saddam and Iraq established on the assumption of an Montreal, wishing his candidates a With Elections Canada were supported and supplied with annual increase equal to inflation of about successful campaign but also embarking on a series of new public massive military equipment by the U.S. 2%. underlining that an election is “very health measures to ensure that the vote during the Iraq-Iran War. Before that, the irresponsible” amid the pandemic. is conducted safely amid a fourth wave, A real hole of $311 million US under Ronald Reagan supported Bin The figures above show a “Until recently, the prime the price tag for the election is estimated Ladin and the Afghanwarlords against the hypothetical “deficit” of $779 million in minister was swearing that no, to be $610 million. occupying Russians. Then they ended up 2024 between the planned expenditures everything he was doing was not with Canada's Chief Electoral Officer turning against America, biting the hands and the anticipated revenues by the City. the perspective of an election and that Stephane Perrault has previously that fed them. Such is the history of Although this portrait remains largely his only objective was to protect the spoken favourably about of having a American foreign policy that always relied theoretical and is called upon to be health of Canadians. He’s suddenly longer writ period—campaigns can be on the myth of military improved and adapted to the priorities of realized in August, two months after up to 50 days in length under current supremacy which in the end is no match the moment, it shows a tendency to Parliament was in recess that suddenly rules— to allow Elections Canada to against the enemies' enormous increase expenditure of almost 5% per it’s dysfunctional,” he said, speaking to have a longer runway to get all elements and fanatical will to fight. The US year, on average, and the apparent supporters in French. of a national election in place. should have learned from the painful absence of new sources of income to lesson of South Vietnam that folded SINGH CAMPAIGN Nevertheless, the agency says it will be finance it. NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh against the inferior military but ferocious ready to safely conduct a vote that’s This is the case for the 2022 fighting spirit of the North Vietnamese. In also started his campaign in Montreal expected to include much more uptake municipal budget, already in preparation, retrospect in Afghanistan, President and later attended a Pride event. in mail-in ballots. where there is currently a real “hole” of Obama, while celebrating the US victory He used the moment to present After a last-minute crunch to $311 million. City Manager Serge the NDP as the most progressive option against the Talibans and the eventual pass as many key bills as possible Lamontagne recalled that a shortfall of for voters, namely as it relates to the before the House of Commons and elimination of Osama Bin Ladin, should such an amount, at this stage of the country’s post-pandemic recovery. Senate adjourned in June given the have started the withdrawal process from preparation of a budget, is not “We are the only party saying rampant speculation of a summer the God-forsaken country 10 years ago uncommon, “but that we still always very clearly that there’s a third option, election call, all outstanding business in instead of perpetuating the nation manage to present a balanced budget”. www.filipinostar.org August 2021 The North American Filipino Star 19

consistently and vocally against the US’ he said: “How can an insurgent force of policy of nation-building. Then came the 70,000 defeat a well-trained and well- infamous “capitulation meetings” in 2019 equipped Afghan army of more than and again in November of 2020 between 300,000?” the Trump administration and the SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION: terrorist organization (deliberately Undoubtedly, Biden now owns excluding from the negotiations the inept the Afghan problem, including the but legitimately-elected Afghan govern- refugee humanitarian crisis that could ment whom they sold out and soon follow. But historians will agree that demoralized). Trump even wanted to his six predecessors from both parties invite the Taliban leader to Camp David were also to blame. All the way back to in the U.S. but his advisers objected. Reagan who armed the warlords against While giving undeserved legitimacy to Russia, to Bush Sr. and Clinton who did the murderous Taliban at the meeting at nothing about the ruthless reign of the Doha, Trump and then State Secretary Talibans, to George W. Bush who Pompeo promised the complete ordered the invasion and started the withdrawal of the US troops by end of nation building process, to Obama for March 2021 and agreed to release 5,000 ramping up the military occupation to Taliban and Al-Qaeda prisoners who more than 100,000 US troops only to quickly re-joined the Taliban army. What draw down later as the enemy became building strategy of his predecessors. war in Afghanistan by invading concessions did Trump and Pompeo stronger, and finally to Trump who The trillions of dollars wasted could have the country after 9/11 and driving away extract from the Talibans in return? essentially gave the country back to the been better spent re-building America. the Talibans and Al-Qaeda. What Practically nothing. The prospects of a Taliban last year by all accounts Looking back a few decades, followed was 20 years of civil war and Taliban re-invasion of Afghanistan that unconditionally. Ronald Reagan funded the Mujahideen nation building that cost the U.S. billions eventually ensued was not even Understandably, the truth is “holy warriors” in their fight against the of dollars every month, propping up discussed. often hard to accept for some who are Russians. After the Russians were corrupt regimes and building a huge So, since Biden has always mainly focused on current events and defeated and driven away, the US military machine to keep the Talibans at been against nation-building in what they see on CNN. Nation building in government under George H. Bush bay, invoking memories of South Afghanistan, strongly going against his a devastated country and re-molding it allowed the Taliban to take power. Bill Vietnam and pre- Castro Cuba. After boss Obama 10 years ago, he made his according to western values and Clinton adopted an appeasement Osama Bin Ladin was killed by US unfortunate choice of honoring the ideology might have been successful in strategy and did not do anything to stop special forces 10 years ago, Barack Trump’s agreement to withdraw in 2021 the Philippines, Japan and Germany the Talibans from their oppressive rule Obama chose to stay in Afghanistan and instead of keeping the already minimal after World War II, and South Korea after and extreme implementation of Islamic fight the Talibans, and in fact ramped up 3,000 US forces in place and preserving the Korean War. But nation building in laws that were detrimental to women and the US presence with troop deployments some stability and preventing escalation current times and in countries that are children. The Talibans at the same time of more than 100,000 at its peak, of hostilities. Biden’s mistake was deeply entrenched in medieval ideology harbored the Al-Qaeda who continuing the nation building, and underestimating the Taliban, ignoring the will not work and can be self-defeating. exported terror to the US mainland. coddling of corrupt and ineffective CIA’s warning, and his misplaced (Reactions to this article may be sent to George W. Bush started the 20-year U.S. leaders. Biden claims that he was confidence in the US-built and funded [email protected]) Afghan security forces. Only last month

STEVEN EMMANUELLA SAMEER ANNIE ANTHONY JUSTIN GUILBEAULT LAMBROPOULOS ZUBERI KOUTRAKIS HOUSEFATHER TRUDEAU LAURIER SAINTEMARIE SAINTLAURENT PIERREFONDS DOLLARD VIMY MONTROYAL  MOUNTROYAL PAPINEAU

Autorisé par l’agent offi ciel de / Authorized by the offi cial agent of: , , Sameer Zuberi, Annie Koutrakis, Anthony Housefather, Justin Trudeau.

www.filipinostar.org 20 The North American Filipino Star August 2021

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