Volume XXXIX No. 6 June 2021 , QC www.filipinostar.org Filipino Canadians celebrate two See Page 4 historical events in June

Communique: June 16 2021 electoral system. I propose ranked Marvin Rotrand to rballeots andtvotinig bry mae il. Rotrand's Snowdon to Have decision is a personal one. H0e New City Councillor recently turned 70 and became a Snowdon City Councillor grandfather for the first time. He has Marvin Rotrand announced today that decided that, after 39 years in office, his name won't be on the ballot for re- he wants to spend time with family and election as City Councillor as to help community causes from Montrealers choose their next Mayor outside City Hall. and Council on November 7. Noted as a pragmatic Rotrand was first elected in progressive, Rotrand spent most of his 1982 and has served without years on Council as an independent or interruption since. He holds the record with smaller parties, yet has had more as Montreal's Councillor with the motions adopted than any other longest years of service. Councillor. "It truly is an honour to have Rotrand has been elected an been the voice of Snowdon residents. I unprecedented ten times. On several know a large number of my occasions he bucked "waves" when constituents personally and it has groups of new councillors were been a privilege to have represented elected and old stalwarts turfed out. the neighbourhood. With the support His first election was in 1982, at the of the people of Snowdon, I am proud time of Mayor Jean Drapeau's last that I have been able to improve the mandate, when he was among a small quality of life locally, in the Borough group of Montreal Citizens' Movement and in our city." said Rotrand. Montreal municipal councillor Marvin Rotrand. See Page 4 Rotrand Promoting a debate on Montreal's PHOTO BY JOHN MAHONEY /Montreal Gazette files www.filipinostar.org 2 June 2021 The North American Filipino Star organizations, told the Montreal Gazette From the Publisher’s desk Letter to the Editor and other media that she, a candidate for City Council for a small third party, is June 3, 2021 the "very first Filipina" to ever run. That Learning about claim shows her ignorance, the fact that Dear Editor: she is disconnected from the community residential schools I am proud to call Lilia Esguerra and worse that she has no knowledge of reveals a dark past in both a friend and a colleague. Her the history of in our city. contributions to Montreal's Filipino Canadian history Many of us took this as an insult community are legendary. Anyone who to Lilia and I have decided not to let it is plugged in to the community would pass. I have no doubt that this new Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi know that. In fact, anyone who claims to candidate, running for this third party be a voice for Filipinos would know that and with no community support and Lilia was the first Filipino - of any gender against a sitting councilor who has - to run for public office in Montreal. She As I review various articles, The discovery of 215 unmarked distinguished himself as a friend of the came within an eyelash of being elected history and literature on residential graves in Kamloops is probably only Filipinos, won't have a very long tenure City Councilor in Darlington district in schools in , I feel very sad and one of many such graves. Residential in politics. 1998. disgusted by the immorality, cruelty, and schools started during the early days of If you are going to run, know the Today Lilia is active in her work inhuman treatment of children who were colonization in the 18th century and basic facts and don't denigrate those with seniors as President of FILGA as forcefully taken away from their parents continued for many years when the last who came before. Lilia Esguerra is well as operating the Ahmon Institute, a and their native culture. I could hardly residential school was closed in 1996 in someone many of us admire. successful adult education school which believe the horror stories of physical Saskatchewan. It is a surprising fact is part of the English Montreal School and sexual abuses committed by the that these schools were funded by the Ramon Vicente Board network. Yet recently a person personnel of these schools. How could government and managed mostly by CEO & President that few of us know and who is clearly these nuns, priests, and other adults the religious orders. Expressions of Filipino Family Services of Montreal not active in our community commit these crimes with impunity apology by the government were made against innocent, helpless children? first by Prime Minister Harper in 2008, Two ideas seem to be a which was followed by Prime Minister common thread in all the literature in 2017 to include other How Thousands of Indigenous about the establishment of these groups overlooked in the previous residential schools - colonialism and apology. However, Pope Francis has TChehdislcdoverrey onf theVreamnainissofh21e5 dchildirnen aCt thae sniteaodf a a racism. The Europeans (who are all expressed only sorrow in learning about defunct boarding school in British Columbia has rekindled from the ruling class of the white race) the unmarked graves but did not issue came to colonize the New World, and in any apology for the role of the Catholic discussion of a sinister time in Canada’s history. doing so, they wanted to make the Church in these residential schools. By Ian Austen, New York Times Indigenous children passed through the native people become like them by The issues emanating from June 7, 2021 schools between their opening, around destroying their culture and language. residential schools are still reflected in OTTAWA — The 1883, and their closing in 1996. Since They considered the natives uncivilized. most of our social problems - racism announcement last month that the taking office in 2015, Prime Minister and even called them “savages” who and colonialism that still persist in many remains of 215 Indigenous children had Justin Trudeau has prioritized putting in needed to be tamed, conquered, forms. We simply cannot predict when been found on the grounds of the place a list of 94 actions for commemo- transformed, and Christianized. They there will be a complete healing of the Kamloops Indian Residential School left rating the students and improving the believed that the best way to do this was wounds inflicted upon the indigenous the nation reeling. lives of Indigenous people. But to take away young children and people who are still fighting for their Flags throughout Canada were Indigenous leaders believe the indoctrinate them to a new religion, rights. It seems likely that the tragic put at half-staff and impromptu government still has a long way to go. language and culture for they thought saga of residential schools will haunt us memorials comprising children’s The discovery of the graves has that when these children go back to for a while longer in spite of the Truth moccasins or shoes, often marked with given new impetus to the nation’s their homes, they would influence their and Reconciliation Commission created “215,” have sprouted, including one in debate on how to atone for its history of parents and elders to be assimilated in 2008 to repair the harm done to the into the mainstream society. native people. Subscription request mail to: 7159 ch. de la Cote des Neiges Montreal, QC H3R 2M2 Name: ______Address: ______Telephone: ______E-mail: ______

1 year 2 years 12 issues $30 24 issues $50

Please issue cheque payable to: North American Filipino Star. Children at the Kamloops school in 1931.Credit...National Center for Truth and Reconciliation

front of Canada’s Parliament building in exploiting Indigenous people. Many are Ottawa. asking how so many children could “A lot of survivors, my relatives, have wound up in that burial space. they’ve been saying this for years and What has been discovered? years — that there was a lot of death, About 20 years ago, an effort to there’s a lot of unmarked graves,” said find remains started at the Kamloops Perry Bellegarde, national chief of the school, which operated from 1890 until Tel.: 514-485-7861/ 514-506-8753 7159 ch. de la Cote des Neiges Assembly of First Nations, the country’s the late 1970s, and was once Canada’s E-Mail: [email protected] Montreal, H3R 2M2 largest Indigenous organization, largest, with 500 students at its peak. www.filipinostar.org Published by: Filcan Publications, Inc .. referring to children who were taken Members of the Tk’emlups te Fely Rosales Carino W.G. Quiambao from their families and forced to attend Secwepemc First Nation made last Community News Zenaida F. Kharroubi Tagalog Columnist Canada’s notorious residential schools month’s grim discovery after bringing in (in absentia) Chief Editor like Kamloops to assimilate into ground-penetrating radar. Joy Rosales Publisher, April 1998-present Western culture. Among the 215 bodies found Administrative Asst. North American Filipino Star Tony San Juan News “But nobody ever believed the by the radar, there appears to be one of Bert Abiera survivors,” he added. “And now with the a child who died as young as 3, said Founder-Publisher, Filipino Star Sam Kevin discovery of the grave site at Kamloops, Chief Rosanne Casimir of the Tk’emlups Show Biz News & Layout Editor Nov. 1982- Nov. 97 it’s just horrific, it’s tragic and it’s te Secwepemc. All of the children were The opinions expressed by the writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect painful.” buried decades ago, she said. that of the management of the North American Filipino Star nor its editors. An estimated 150,000 Chief Casimir also said she June 2021 The North American Filipino Star 3 anticipated that more remains would be disease, accidents, fires and during discovered as the ground is scanned attempts to escape, according to the further this month. The community is commission. now working with the Royal Canadian Schools suffered mass deaths Mounted Police and the coroner’s when infectious diseases swept through service in British Columbia. them, according to a report this year on On Friday, Chief Casimir said the burial sites by Scott Hamilton, a the bodies found so far appeared to be professor of anthropology at Lakehead buried in separate “unmarked burial University in Thunder Bay, Ontario. sites that are, to our knowledge, also How many children died at the undocumented.” residential schools? IWhat was the residential school When children died at system? residential schools, their families were In the late 19th century, Canada often given vague explanations or told set aside land for Indigenous people that they had simply run away and through often dubious treaties, while vanished, the commission found. When outright seizing Indigenous land in the schools acknowledged the deaths some places, particularly in British of children, they generally refused, until Columbia. the 1960s, to return their bodies to their Around 1883 the government families. Remains were sent back only if The Kamloops Indian Residential School in 1937.Credit...National Center for Truth and Reconciliation added a new dimension to its it was cheaper than burying them at the were often abandoned.” search for the remains of students at exploitation of Indigenous people. schools. What happens next? other schools. In 2019, the government Indigenous children in many parts of In its report, the commission During a special debate in the budgeted 27 million Canadian dollars to Canada were forced to attend estimated that at least 4,100 students House of Commons last Tuesday look for graves. But the money was not residential schools, often far from their had died or gone missing from the evening, Mr. Trudeau said Canada had distributed. communities. Most were operated by residential schools, and demanded that failed the 215 children whose remains Chief Bellegarde said he hoped churches, and all of them banned the the government account for all of those were discovered as well as the other the shock that followed the discovery in use of Indigenous languages and children. It did not, however, definitely children who never returned to their Kamloops would lead Canada to Indigenous cultural practices, often say how many had disappeared. communities from the residential accelerate efforts at bringing about through violence. Disease as well as Murray Sinclair, a former judge schools. reconciliation and eliminating sexual, physical and emotional abuse and senator who headed the “Today, some of the children discrimination and the wide economic were widespread. commission, said in an email last week found in Kamloops, and who have yet gap between Indigenous people and The Kamloops school was that he now believed the number was to be found in other places across the the rest of the country. operated by the Roman Catholic “well beyond 10,000.” country, would have been grandparents “We have to use this as this Church until 1969, when the federal Since the commission ended, a or great-grandparents,” he said. “They catalyst,” he said. “We’ve helped build are not, and that is the fault of Canada.” this great country and nobody’s going Mr. Trudeau said the anywhere. We have to work together, so government heed calls from Indigenous let’s roll up our sleeves and get this leaders for money and other help to use work done.”# radar and various technologies to

Children’s shoes and toys were placed in front of the former Kamloops Indian Residential School in British Columbia after the remains of 215 children, some as young as 3, were found at the site this past week.Credit...Dennis Owen/Reuters government took over the school federal project has been underway to system. Reports by an inspector and a document the fates of the children who doctor indicated that the students at never returned to their families after Kamloops were severely malnourished being sent to residential schools, and at times. who are generally known as “the A National Truth and missing children.” Reconciliation Commission set up by Remains in unmarked graves the Canadian government spent six have appeared or been discovered years hearing from 6,750 witnesses to through construction or natural events document the history of the schools. In at the sites of other former schools, a report in 2015, it concluded that the although nothing on the scale of system was a form of “cultural Kamloops. genocide.” Dr. Kisha Supernant, an The commission also called for Indigenous woman who directs the an apology from the pope for the Institute for Prairie and Indigenous Roman Catholic church’s role. On Archaeology at the University of Alberta, Sunday, Pope Francis stopped short of has been leading teams that use offering a formal apology, but said that ground-penetrating radar and other “the sad discovery further raises technologies to hunt for remains. awareness of the pains and sufferings Professor Hamilton said that of the past.” simply locating burial sites was often Some former students testified difficult because of poor record- before the commission that priests at keeping, lost records and the relocation the schools had fathered infants with of some schools. Indigenous students, that the babies “These graveyards are often had been taken away from their young now unmarked,” he said. “What they mothers and killed, and that in some were like 50 or 60 years ago is anyone’s cases their bodies were thrown into guess. The challenge here is that they furnaces. have not been maintained. Once the Many students also died from schools were closed, the properties www.filipinostar.org 4 The North American Filipino Star June 2021

FBy ZielniapidaiF.nKhoarro-uCbi anadiaevneryosne cwoeuldlelikebtormaeett etheir twpanodemichhaissprtevoenterdimcosat culltureal vsoementdisgnitairines Jwhoundeleivered The annual tradition of friends and neighbors to share food events, Famas still held the usual congratulatory messages. A reception celebrating Philippine Independence and camaraderie. Last year, raising of the Philippine Flag virtually followed the flag raising ceremony. Day has added significance because Montrealers missed the parade and on Philippine Independence day. This Since the declaration of of another important event - the the big social event at the park due to year, as restrictions were partially lifted, Filipino Heritage Month last February declaration of Filipino Heritage Month 2018, the Filipino Heritage Society of by virtue of a private member’s bill 55 Montreal has always been active and sponsored by , a member engaged in several projects to achieve of the Canadian Parliament for their goals. In spite of the pandemic, Scarborough Center, Ontario and the members still managed to maintain approved on October 31, 2018. But a their connection to the community. resolution proposed by Councillor They took turns preparing food weekly Marvin Rotrand, seconded by and made deliveries to seniors and Councilor Lionel Perez to declare June called this Ayuda, a Spanish word for as Filipino Heritage Month was assistance. They also sponsored approved earlier in February 2018. by computer courses for seniors, knitting the CDN-NDG Borough Council in lessons, baking, and for social events, Montreal. Subsequently, the FHSM they held a bingo night weekly. (Filipino Heritage Society of Montreal Moreover, they made sure to wish was created with Al Abdon selected as members of the group on their Chairman, and Bert Abiera, Vice- birthdays with a special birthday card Chairman. This organization was handcrafted and designed by mandated to have activities to Jeannette Perrignon. commemorate Philippine cultural This year, opening of the heritage and traditions as well as to Filipino Heritage Month started on coordinate with other community June 1st, by zoom which featured the associations. messages from many VIPs and leaders Before the pandemic, of different organizations. An array of Philippine Independence Day has entertainment numbers was included Flag raising ceremony at FAMAS (Filipino Association of Montreal and always been a big event and Suburbs) building, June 12, 2021 (From Facebook post of A. Manon-og) such as songs, dances, and Philippine celebrated with a colorful parade safety precautions and restrictions. FAMAS under the leadership of historical events. Fely Rosales organized by the CCFAQ (Council of It is not known yet as of this writing if President Romeo Remigio and Vice- Carino’s column on community social Canadian Filipino Associations of there will be a resumption of big President Joseph Gonzales, was able events described what transpired Quebec), as well as a multi-cultural gatherings of Filipinos in Mackenzie to hold the raising of the Philippine during this event which lasted over two festival of music and dances held at King Park during the summer months flag on June 12th, at 9:00 A.M. with a hours. MacKenzie King Park. Attendance had of July and August. smaller crowd present in front of the The opening remarks was always been in the thousands as Last year, even though the Philippine Community Center with given by Councillor Marvin Rotrand always given me. It has been an our work to the public so that voters From Page 1 Rotrand Coderre's point man on the honour for me to be their voice at City can make an informed choice. I invite (MCM) councillors voted into office. internationally successful transit Council," Rotrand said. those who come after me to promote The MCM of those days represented a congress held in Montreal in 2017. Most recently Rotrand's work transparency by being available to the new and fresh way of looking at Given the moniker of Mr. has focussed attention on anti-Asian press. I have great respect for the politics, at having men and women, Democracy for his relentless efforts to racism as well as inadequate professionalism of the Montreal press francophone and anglophones, reform Montreal Council and bring it resources in the police department to corps," Rotrand concluded. working together to promote the rights closer to the citizens, Rotrand is confront hate crimes. Rotrand also urges Councillors of tenants, green space and perhaps best known for his work to Rotrand indicates that he will to buck the party line when they don't consultative democracy. promote diversity. He has championed actively support the election campaign agree. He believes Montreal Council "My experience since those the hiring of minorities into the police for Mayor of Denis Coderre. He also would better serve citizens if it acted early days has taught me that Council department and civil services indicates that he has aided Coderre's less like the Parliament it has become works best when it is collegial," says (beginning with improving access to Ensemble Montreal team recruit some and perform more like a City Council. Rotrand. " Today I am inspired by the employment for women in the 1980's) , excellent candidates in Cote des Toronto model where political parties promoted minority candidates for City Partial list of accomplishments: Neiges - Notre Dame de Grace •Promoted civilian oversight of do not exist at all and where everyone Council and brought causes dear to Borough including in Snowdon. These law enforcement leading to the works together to advance the racialized and immigrant communities candidates will be announced soon. creation of the Quebec Police Ethics common good. That is what, over the to the floor of Council. "I leave knowing that I have Commission. Former Quebec Justice years, I have always tried to do: put "I cherish my close relationship always been available to my voters and the public good ahead of the partisan. with my constituents of minority origin. to the media whose job it is to report See Page 10 Rotrand My voters have appreciated this and My parents immigrated here in 1948. In that perhaps explains why I have been Canada most of us can trace our family so successful in earning their enduring history in the country only a few confidence". generations. My family history in Rotrand is proud of his record Canada dates only a generation longer of reading all the files which are than the families of so many in presented at City Hall and in Snowdon. My Filipino voters are living committees, and of asking probing the same successful integration into questions based on meticulous Canada as my parents and many research which - having access to only Jewish immigrants did a few decades a miniscule support budget - he does earlier," said Rotrand himself. His attendance record at Rotrand has a very close meetings of all kinds is likely among relationship with the Filipino the best of any Councillor, present or community. He is an honorary Knight past. of Rizal, piloted the awarding of the He believes that no Councillor name Place Jose Rizal for the area has worked harder than he has. around the monument at Mackenzie Among his many King Park through City Council, achievements, Rotrand served as the originated the Montreal Manila STM's Vice President for 17 years, friendship motions in 2004, proposed acted as leader of the majority under the motion to create Filipino Heritage Mayor Gerald Tremblay, was an Month and has been an ardent influential member of the Public supporter of Filipino cultural, sports Security Commission under Mayor and seniors' organizations. Jean Dore and was Mayor Denis "I appreciate the strong support my Filipino constituents have www.filipinostar.org June 2021 The North American Filipino Star 5 further, there maybe some big Montreal 32,740 33,050 gatherings happening soon. Calgary showed the biggest Filipino community organiza- population growth among all key tions across Canada hold festivals in metropolitan areas in Canada with a large public venues. These Filipino rate of more than a third over the past 5 festivals often feature Filipino showbiz years, followed by Winnipeg with a personalities who sing and dance for 26.2% growth rate. The very low growth large crowds in attendance, who enjoy rate of Filipino migrants in Montreal, the different kinds of Filipino food and in Quebec in general, may be available from many vendors. explained by the difficulty faced by new Cities like Toronto, which have immigrants in meeting the province’s larger Filipino communities, are known minimum French language for its multi-day celebrations like Taste requirements. of Manila, which is held in Little Manila, More than 76% of those with at the corners of Wilson and Bathurst. It Filipino ethnic origins reported being is one of Canada’s largest street first generation Filipinos (598,960), festivals, with more than 300,000 including those who were born outside people in attendance. Canada. Second generation Filipinos Statistics Canada reported the (168,045) are mostly children of The virtual opening of Filipino Heritage Month by the FHSM on June 1, following population with Filipino ethnic immigrants, and those born in Canada 2021 (See Fely Carino Rosales column, page 15). while the keynote speech was safety protocols but the Fillipino origins in key metropolis in the country: or had at least one parent born outside delivered by the Philippine community in Montreal has adjusted to Cities 2011 2016 Canada. Only a very small percentage Ambassador to Canada, Hon. Rodolfo these restrictions and even a curfew Toronto 246.340 254,480 of Filipinos in the country consider D. Robles. Representatives from the that lasted for several weeks. Vancouver 120,645 123,170 themselves third generation Filipinos different levels of government - Perhaps, when the restrictions are lifted Winnipeg 58,535 73,880 (13,125). municipal, provincial and federal - were Calgary 52,645 70,660 Source: Philippine Embassy website invited to deliver their messages in addition to the leaders of non-profit organizations. In all of the speeches, the contributions of Filipinos to Canada were recognized, and in particular, a deep appreciation of frontline workers who are mostly Filipinos working in hospitals, and in long term care institutions. They also noted the economic contributions of Filipinos to the progress of Canadian society. Celebrations of Philippine independence and the Filipino Heritage Month have obviously been toned down due to the pandemic. There are very limited ways these events can be celebrated due to the Photo of a past Philippine Independence Day celebration at MacKenzie King Park in Montreal.

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

Operasyon sa COVID-19 na Lahat tayo ay nais pagbabakuna malaman ang higit pa tungkol sa COVID-19 na pagbabakuna

BAKIT DAPAT AKONG MAGPABAKUNA?

Pumoprotekta ito laban sa COVID-19 at tutulong sa iyo na makaiwas sa pagkakasakit. Kahit na maraming tao ang gumagaling nang hindi ginagamot, ang ilan ay maaaring mamatay dahil sa COVID-19 o makaranas ng mga problema sa puso o baga tulad ng pneumonia. Maaari ring maapektuhan ang nervous system.

Ituloy natin ang pagprotekta sa ating mga sarili! Sa pagdating ng mga buwan, hangga’t hindi pa nababakunahan ang karamihan ng populasyon, mananatili ang COVID-19.

2 Metro

Manatiling Takpan ang Umubo sa Hugasan ang nakadistansya iyong mukha iyong siko iyong mga kamay A F 1 3 - 9 7 2 Québec.ca/vaccinCOVID - 0 2 1 877 644-4545 www.filipinostar.org June 2021 The North American Filipino Star 7 Most Beautiful Places in the That Won’t Fail to Impress You

Vigan in Ilocos Sur - Just like Intramuros, is the best-preserved Boracay beach in Aklan is a sure-fire hit for travelers example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. Established in and beach-lovers. Boracay is famous for its fine white the 16th century, Vigan’s architecture reflects the coming together sand and now, clear blue waters, party scene, and of cultural elements from elsewhere in the Philippines, from China Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, amazing water activities. and from Europe, recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site. one of the most beautiful places in the Philippines.

Big and Small Lagoons in El Nido, Palawan - With its Chocolate Hills in Bohol. There are more than 1,000 gorgeous rock formations and clear aquamarine waters, symmetrical mounds, conical and dome-shaped that most El Nido is a sure-hit for every traveler! You can go people liken them to Hershey’s Kisses because of their color. Intramuros in Manila is filled with old Hispanic architecture kayaking, paddle boarding, or swimming in these lagoons that was preserved from hundred years ago. while digesting its majestic views.

gratulations! Con Sue Montgomery Borough Mayor Côte-des-Neiges - Notre-Dame-de -Grâce Happy 123rd Philippine Independence Day and 3rd Filipino Heritage Month!

Magda PopeanuLionel Perez Marvin Rotrand Peter McQueen Christian Arseneault Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Councillor Côte-des-Neiges District Darlington District Snowdon District Notre-Dame-de-Grâce District Loyola District June 2021 8 The North American Filipino Star the program. minute, The celebration highlighted the Another chance came when $1,000 cash prize for the winner of the she was accepted at the Columbia Maharlika award. of the University in New York for the same Wait a minute, I detect a Personality By Fely Rosales Cariño program. However, this time, a US visa pattern here. Angie, you seem to be was out of her reach. always a president. I should baptize Perhaps to find new dreams, you Madame President For Life!!! Month she actively immersed herself and Now, over the years, Angie has joined Filipino associations. The been an officer, advisor, or member of following are the organizations she the Board of Trustees of different was involved in. She served as Director organizations. I would say that her in the United Nurses Union of Montreal. crowning glory was her prestigious This union supported and protected award given for an exemplary rights of nurses working in Montreal. performance in various activities, the Along with this added responsibility, Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee she accepted a position as a member medal presented by Honourable Irwin of the Board of Governors of the Cotler, then a Member of Parliament in nurses’ union that fought for the rights 2012. of blacks and domestic workers in During conversations when Montreal. In connection with this work, she finds something disagreeable, against the advice of her friends, she she’s quick to give notice. She always took upon herself to help free a Filipino enjoys a healthy and lively debate. domestic worker from an unjust Wow! Angie, you would have made a employer. fiery defence lawyer during a court trial. She also served as a For now, let us salute Angie for her representative of the Filipino Nurses countless contributions in helping Association of Quebec (FNAQ) in the shape most Philippine organizations in Center for Research Action on Race Montreal to stand on their own. When Relations (CRARR). After this term, she asked if she has any regrets, she said, was elected as President of the FNAQ. “I worked well and I’m living the best This lady president was going places! life with no regrets!” Her future The association that took most includes travelling and visiting exotic of her time was the Filipino Association places, and tasting different gourmet of Montreal and Suburbs (FAMAS) in dishes that each place can offer. which she served as president. She At the present time, Angie lives kept planning various activities that a quiet and contented retirement life would enhance her term. As FAMAS and she is living like nobody’s president, the following activities were business! She is a regular at Angelita Watch outA! ngSoemelointe aMOanigla,ePhriliipopines. There she finished introduced for the first time: Children’s Velez’s beauty salon. Her time is also interesting is coming up. She’s a lady her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Christmas Party, Independence Ball, spent with occasional dinners at nice who is sometimes misunderstood. Let Major in Clinical Teaching. After and Munting Binibining Pilipinas. She restaurants. Most especially, she me clear the way. Sometimes graduation, she heard about the was successful in fundraising, the caters to her beloved nephews and perceived as strict, aloof, and Reciprocity Program offered for proceeds of which led to the beginning nieces (Nico’s and Minda’s children). detached, she is actually funny, doctors and nurses in the United of the establishment of the present And of course, shopping sprees are lovable, a good conversationalist, and States. She applied for and was Philippine Center located at Van Horne still a delight! Though appearing a burst of fresh air. I am talking about accepted to work at the Boyle General Street, Montreal. It was also under her serious, her contagious smile will catch Angelita (aka Angie) Ojerio. There is Hospital (BGH) in Boyle, Alberta, a administration that FAMAS you off guard. So don’t let her fool much more to discover about my dear small town near Edmonton, Alberta, successfully raised around $26,000 you; she is full of life! friend! Canada. She signed for a two-year which was donated to ONDOY flood Angie, thank you for being She first saw the light of dawn contract. victims in the Philippines in 2009. inspirational to the Filipino community! in Ballesteros, Cagayan, Philippines in After her contract, she moved After her FAMAS presidency, I would like to say a prayer for you: 1943. She completed her elementary to Montreal, where, by good luck, she was elected as President of the May the God of hope fill you with all joy and high school education in their hospitals were in need of doctors and Federation of Filipino Canadian and peace as you trust in Him, so that hometown. After high school, nurses. She chose the Royal Victoria Associations of Quebec (FFCAQ). She you may overflow with hope by the indecisions confused her mind. Her Hospital where she worked as a head served for two terms. Under her watch, power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans parents, Melanio Ojerio and Bonifacia nurse. What a feat. This is admirable! the FFCAQ celebrated their 30th 15:13) Arrieta, wanted her to be a doctor or a While working, at the back of her mind, anniversary on October 2010. Wait a nurse, but Angie had set her eyes and she needed to further her studies. She heart on being a lawyer. In the end, she enrolled at McGill University and took conceded and agreed to go to a qualifying courses for a Master’s nursing school. She chose to go to the Program in Nursing. Her hectic Filipino Women’s University (PWU) in schedule made it difficult to complete Juneteenth becomes a Federal Holiday

People celebrate Juneteenth at St. Nicholas Park, which commemo- rates the end of slavery in Texas, two years after the 1863 Emanci- pation Proclamation freed slaves elsewhere in the United States, in New York City, New York, June 18, 2021. www.filipinostar.org June 2021 The North American Filipino Star 9 Filipino-Canadian Scientist seeks Member of

PTonyaA.rSalniJauanm, OCTe-Rentiredt) sautoeworkaer, tlost ihisnjob Tduriong rthe oSnteeritngoCo-mSmitttee. PhPil ias aun lEm’sergi,ng OLeadenr", t"PaodcarstiHo ost Filipino Canadian scientist Dr. Massey College Fellow, Governor- Phil De Luna, a young, aspiring, and General Gold Medalist, Member of the first-time politician, is an acclaimed OECD Advanced Materials Steering candidate for Member of Parliament Committee, Member of the Institute of for Toronto-St. Paul's under the Green Corporate Directors. Party for the next federal election. Phil De Luna's family and fiancee will run in the political riding presently are highly supportive of his candidacy held by Liberal MP . after explaining his reasons. "I am The 29-year-old scientist and running because I think we need a new cleantech researcher is the third kind of politics, one that listens to the Filipino Canadian to announce science, one that represents a diversity candidacy in federal politics following of Canadians, and one that offers Paul Jonathan Saguil and Elizabeth R. solutions instead of criticisms". Part of Quinto, both solicitors-barristers, who his campaign objective is "to help and are seeking Liberal Party nominations inspire others who are new to the in Brampton Centre and Kitchener political process, especially South-Hespeler, Ontario, respectively. underrepresented groups". Dr. P. De Luna, who is currently Philosophically speaking, Dr. on leave from his job at the National P. De Luna reasoned out “If we don’t Research Council of Canada, is have good people to run in politics, throwing his hat in the political arena to then what will we have left? # articulate his ideas in cleantech science and innovation. He said that Sparklines “Technology is not enough but government policies can do much A Message to Clean better and faster". De Luna explained Tech Entrepreneurs: He has four main reasons why You Are Still Not Late he is running:1)“we must move faster The industry has already weathered to combat the threat of climate change one boom and bust cycle, but the and sustainably renew our society and conditions are ripe for more billion- economy, 2) we need more diversity in Dr. Phil de Luna dollar businesses. parliament and more science in policy, recession in 2008 and when the Ford entrepreneur and innovator being a By Nathaniel Bullard 3) I want to lower the barriers for other car assembly plant closed. Phil knows carbon tech co-founder. He currently May 27, 2021, 6:00 AM EDT non-traditional candidates, and 4) to firsthand what happens when an entire serves as a founding Mentor of the A week ago, U.S. President consider running because a diverse community is dependent on one Matter and Climate Streams in Creative Joe Biden signed an executive order government is a robust and resilient industry. Destruction Lab. urging his administration to create a one.” A graduate of the University of Since 2013 he has published comprehensive strategy on climate- In his political quest, De Luna Toronto with a Doctor of more than 44 articles including op-eds related financial risk . The order is focusing on three main issues which Philosophy(Ph.D.) degree in Materials in high-impact scientific journals and includes a slew of asks, mostly around he considered deeply personal and Science and Engineering in 2018, Phil newspapers. As a co-host and how to 1, measure; 2, assess; 3, important such as1) supporting our also completed his Master of Science produce podcast producer, he has mitigate; and 4, disclose the potential essential workers, 2) housing (MSc) degree in Chemistry from the given hundreds of talks, panels, harms wrought by climate change. affordability, and 3) fighting for green, University of Ottawa in 2015 and BSc. podcast interviews, and speeches on Of those four priorities, two sustainable jobs. He explained that "we Honours Chemistry with thesis at the topics in science, climate change, are fundamentally financial: need to do everything we can to University of Windsor, Ontario. clean technology, diversity, and assessment and disclosure. The other diversify and create a more sustainable De Luna was the youngest- innovation. two, however, are physical. economy for Canada, to ensure ever Director at the National Research Among Phil's numerous Measurement is about sensing what is families have green jobs that will last.” Council of Canada and is an expert in achievements are: "Youngest Director happening to our own systems and to Born in Taiwan, Phil grew up in clean technology. He served as Vice- in National Research Council's 100- the planet; mitigation is about Windsor, Ontario. He came to Canada Chair on the Board of Directors of CMC year history"; "Forbes Top 30 Under 30 reducing severity—or to put it in with his parents, Art and Joy De Luna Research Institutes and was a member - Energy"; "Forbes "Best of Canada" in 1996 at age 4. His father, an of the OECD Advanced Materials Top 30 Innovators"; "Clean50 See Page 10 Clean Tech

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There are lots From Page 4 Rotrand From Page 9 Clean Tech transit on the national level by of insights to be gleaned here, but I’ll Minister Herbert Marx called Rotrand successfully lobbying all the federal plainer terms, doing something about highlight just a few that may be of the father of civilian control of police in parties to include major funding the impacts of climate change. particular interest for climate tech the province. increases in public transit infrastructure Measurement and mitigation founders. •Chaired the Democracy to their 2015 electoral programs. are economy-wide, even global Workshop of the Summit of Montreal •Successfully advocated for a What on Earth? challenges, but they’re also business The first is that there’s room at 2001-2005 leading to the adoption of moratorium on further purchase of opportunities of equal scope. They the billion-dollar table for the Montreal Charter of Rights and tasers by Quebec police forces in the fall under the umbrella of climate companies tackling hard, Responsibities and the creation of a wake of the death of Quillem Registre tech, a sector that has resumed fundamental problems of the climate municipal Ombudsman. and has championed de-escalation as early-stage fundraising and growth tech sort. Tamaseb calls them “deep •Introduced the idea of an alternative to use of force. after a very quiet half-decade. tech” companies, which “bring value healthy lifestyles into municipal •Helped create first affirmative by offering a product that is so hard to parlance with motions that led to a no action program bring women and Late Stage in Later Years Climate tech investment in develop that it requires years of smoking bylaw (now provincial law), minorities into police force private companies scientific and engineering convinced the city to withdraw soft •Championed diversity in Climate tech has accrued $17 billion advancement.” You might think deep drinks and junk food from its vending Montreal's place names: Elie Wiesel, or so of investment globally in the tech companies would be rare in the machines and installations, authored a Yolene Jumelle, Saidye Bronfman, past few years, most of that in the unicorn ranks, particularly when there ban of fast-food restaurants on main Warren Allmand, Mordechai Richler U.S. under a presidential are so many highly visible consumer- streets in Cote des Neiges - Notre SPECIAL DISTINCTIONS administration that was actively facing apps. But Tamaseb finds that Dame de Grace. •Labelled "Voice of the Black hostile to its principles. Surely an they represent more than a quarter of •Championed changes to Community at Council" by Dan Philip, administration wanting to bolster a all billion-dollar start-ups. Canadian currency to give visibility to long time President of Black Coalition climate tech market will create more women, First Nations and minorities. of Quebec Plenty of Space for Tech interest in the sector—and in Level of engineering Stephen Poloz, then Bank of Canada •Only Montreal Councillor to company formation and probably complexity in billion-dollar start-ups Chair, has indicated Rotrand's motion, whom Peter Trent ever gave a donation capital-raising, too? The second is that there’s also adopted by Toronto, helped start (megacity election of 2001) room for value creation, even in the process that led to Viola Desmond STILL WORKING ON: Sponsored Content competitive or crowded-seeming being featured on Canada's $10 bill. •Smoke Free Park bylaw Exploring Asian Culture and the Arts markets. The door to success doesn’t •Proved the link between •Body cameras for Montreal in Hong Kong close behind the first company to try Mayor Bourque's 1994 electoral victory police Brand Hong Kong something, or even the first five. In and illegal financing leading to large •Framework to protect privacy If climate tech is going to be the new, fact, Tamaseb finds that the largest fines for Vision Montreal party and an rights from facial recognition, license hot investment space, it’ll need some cohort of billion-dollar startups were ultimate reform of the provincial plate reader technology and Stingray new, hot companies. Ali Tamaseb, a those with many competitors already electoral financing law. devices that track cell phones venture capital investor at DCVC, has in the market before they entered. •One of the Councillors whose •‹Changing police uniform just published a new book, Super work led to the creation of the rules to accommodate minorities # You Are Not Late Founders, that uses numbers, not Time to market for billion- Commissions of Council allowing myths or media tales to examine who dollar start ups. This idea in particular citizens to influence the decision- Advertising in the Star starts billion-dollar startups and what gives me hope for climate tech. After making process. Call 514-485-7861 or email: approaches they take to fundraising, all, the sector has had one boom— •Won the Canadian Urban [email protected] product development, market fit, and quite a bust—already, but many Transit Association's prize in 2017 for

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www.filipinostar.org June 2021 The North American Filipino Star 11 things that were tried then could very well work today at billion-dollar scale and act as building blocks for those PhTihle ieaprliespt reiconrdedewas Iwhnen dependence Day History creating new companies. These would Andres Bonifacio, along with Emilio have plenty of things going for them, by Jacinto, Restituto Javier, Guillermo Tamaseb’s estimation. Clean Masangkay, Aurelio Tolentino, Faustino technologies are cheaper than ever; Manalak, Pedro Zabala and few other Katipuneros went to Pamitinan Cave in they work better than ever; and there’s Montalban, Rizal to initiate new members more market support, more policy of the Katipunan. Bonifacio wrote Viva la support, and more societal independencia Filipina! or Long Live engagement on climate than ever. That Philippine independence on walls of the means that whether you’re trying cave to express the goal of their secret something brand new or a tried and society. Bonifacio also led the Cry of true idea, you’ll more likely find a Pugad Lawin, which signals the market. beginning of Philippine Revolution. There’s another reminder from Members of the Katipunan, led by another longtime technology observer Bonifacio, tore their community tax that I hope all climate tech certificates (cedulas personales) in entrepreneurs bear in mind. Seven protest of Spanish conquest. years ago, Kevin Kelly wrote a short The Philippine Revolution began essay titled “You Are Not Late.” In it, he in 1896. The Pact of Biak-na-Bato, signed urged all entrepreneurs not to feel like on December 14, 1897, established a they’d missed the seemingly wide- truce between the Spanish colonial open opportunities of earlier decades government and the Filipino in technology. “The last 30 years has revolutionaries. Under its terms, Emilio created a marvelous starting point, a Aguinaldo and other revolutionary Front view of Aguinaldo House in Kawit, Cavite as of June 11, 2015. The solid platform to build truly great leaders went into exile in Hong Kong national shrine is known for being the place of Philippine declaration of after receiving 400,000 pesos from the independence by Emilio Aguinaldo on June 12, 1898. things,” he said. “However the coolest On June 5, 1898, Aguinaldo known as the Philippine–American War. stuff has not been invented yet.” Spanish Government. At the outbreak of the issued a decree at Aguinaldo house The United States of America I hope that’s true for climate located in what was then known as granted independence to the Philippines tech, for the entrepreneurs who are Spanish–American War, Commodore George Dewey sailed from Hong Kong to Cavite El Viejo proclaiming June 12, on July 4, 1946. In accordance with the building its new wave, and for what Manila Bay leading the U.S. Navy Asiatic 1898 as the day of independence. The Philippine Independence Act (more they bring to the climate, too. The Squadron. On May 1, 1898, Dewey Acta de la Proclamacion de la popularly known as the White House is bringing climate to the defeated the Spanish in the Battle of Independencia del Pueblo Filipino was "Tydings–McDuffie Act"), President Harry heart of our systems and society. It is Manila Bay, which effectively put the U.S. solemnly read by its author, Ambrosio S. Truman issued Proclamation 2695 of also creating new markets for climate in control of the Spanish colonial Rianzares Bautista, Aguinaldo's war July 4, 1946 officially recognizing the tech to fill.# government. Later that month, the U.S. counselor and special delegate. The 21- independence of the Philippines. On the Navy transported Aguinaldo back to the page declaration was signed by 98 same day, the Treaty of Manila was Philippines. Aguinaldo arrived on May Filipinos, appointed by Aguinaldo, and signed. 19, 1898 in Cavite. one retired American artillery officer, July 4 was chosen as the date Colonel L. M. Johnson. The Philippine by the United States because it flag was officially unfurled for the first corresponds to the United States' time at about 4:30 p.m, as the Marcha Independence Day, and that day was Nacional Filipina was played by the observed in the Philippines as band of San Francisco de Malabon. Independence Day until 1962. On May The proclamation was initially 12, 1962, President Diosdado ratified by 190 municipal presidents from Macapagal issued Presidential the 16 provinces controlled by the Proclamation No. 28, which declared revolutionary army August 1, 1898, and June 12 a special public holiday was again ratified on September 29, throughout the Philippines, "... in 1898 by the Malolos Congress. commemoration of our people's The Philippines failed to win declaration of their inherent and international recognition of its inalienable right to freedom and independence, specifically including the independence." On August 4, 1964, United States of America and Spain. The Republic Act No. 4166 renamed July 4 Spanish government later ceded the holiday as "Philippine Republic Day", Philippine archipelago to the United proclaimed June 12 as "Philippine States in the 1898 Treaty of Paris. The Independence Day", and enjoined all Philippines Revolutionary Government citizens of the Philippines to observe the did not recognize the treaty and the two latter with befitting rites.(Wikipedia)# sides subsequently fought what was

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www.filipinostar.org June 2021 The North American Filipino Star 13 EDUCATION raises the bar but lowers the barriers to a rewarding career.

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www.filipinostar.org June 2021 14 The North American Filipino Star red onions on a large plate or platter. microplane Drizzle with half the dressing. Top with 1 garlic clove, minced or pressed the feta, avocado, mint, and serrano 1 tsp. sesame oil pepper, if using, and drizzle with 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes remaining dressing. Season to taste 2–3 Tbsp. water Cooking and serve. INSTRUCTIONS Cook rice noodles according to with love package instructions. Rinse under cold water and drain over a colander. In the meantime, prepare the peanut provides dipping sauce by adding all sauce ingredients except water to a small mixing bowl and whisk to combine. food for the Add water by a tablespoon until desired consistency is achieved. Taste soul. and adjust flavors as needed. Keep refrigerated until ready to serve. To assemble spring rolls, have all of the filling ingredients prepared and layed Ingredients out. Add warm water to a shallow dish Summer recipes and Dressing and soak one rice paper wrapper at a picnic food ideas 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil time. When you feel the wrapper 3 tablespoons lime juice getting loose, remove it from the water ½ garlic clove, minced Vegetable Rice Paper Rolls and set it on a damp cutting board. ¼ teaspoon sea salt SPRING ROLLS Arrange avocado slices in the center of For the salad 4 oz. rice noodles or vermicelli the wrapper, below the avocado 5 cups cubed watermelon 8–10 spring roll wrappers arrange the lettuce and layer small 1 heaping cup diced English cucumber 2 avocados, thinly sliced handful of noodles, cucumbers, and ¼ cup thinly sliced red onions Green leaf lettuce, torn into chunks peppers. On top of the avocado layer cup crumbled feta cheese 1 English cucumber, julienned red cabbage, cilantro, and basil. 1 avocado, cubed 1–2 red bell peppers, julienned Gently fold over once, tuck in edges, cup torn mint or basil leaves Shredded red cabbage and continue rolling until the seam is ½ jalapeño or serrano pepper, thinly Fresh cilantro leaves sealed. The wrapper will be very sticky sliced, optional Fresh basil, sliced into thin ribbons and delicate so work quickly and Sea salt PEANUT DIPPING SAUCE carefully. It may take few tries and Instructions 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter that’s okay. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, Juice 1 lime, 2-3 Tablespoons Cut the rolls in half and place on a whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (for serving platter. Serve with peanut garlic and salt. gluten free – sub tamari) dipping sauce. Watermelo Salad with Feta Cheese Arrange the watermelon, cucumber, and 3 Tbsp. honey 2 tsp. fresh ginger, grated using a An impressive show by FHSM of Dr. Rizal’s literary works presented on Zoom, June 20, 2021 highlights the 3rd Filipino Heritage Month in Montreal By Zenaida F. Kharroubi a member of Panday Tinig, and Sisa’s It is a rare occasion that I Monologue by Jeannette Perrignon. review any movie or entertainment but Rebecca Aguilar introduced after watching the FHSM’s presentation Kim Gultia’s and Joseph Gonzales’ of Dr. Jose Rizal’s literary works, I felt joint delivery of Liham ni Jose Rizal sa happy to make a few comments when mga Kababaihan ng Malolos (To the requested by Al Abdon, the chairman Women of Malolos) in the form of a of the Society. Even without slide presentation that included a great interviewing Editha Fedalizo who amount of material which is very coordinated the event, I could guess educational. Nancy Karidis introduced that she must have worked so hard in the fashion show of Maria Clara’s doing research, selecting all the costumes modeled by Norma Vohra of participants, conducting people who the Seniors in Motion group and could lend her a hand in such a short Jeannette Perrignon of FHSM. period of time. She spoke about the Stephanie Valenzuela introduced experience and mentioned that it was a Sonny Moroz who sponsored the show challenge to select a young Filipino to and gave a closing remarks of portray the role of Maria Clara, a main acknowlegement in which he character in Rizal’s works. She said recognized that the FHSM had shown a she was impressed by the performance way for other groups to follow. Finally, of Stephanie Valenzuela who did a magnificent job of acting out the monologue of Maria Clara. She also follow the sequence of numbers from introduced the song called Ugoy ng cited the work of Kim Gultia who beginning to end. Duyan and accompanied young presented the Letters of Dr. Jose Rizal The event started with the Rejean Aquino on the piano. Elma to the women of Malolos. She opening remarks by Bert Abiera, Vice- Bulatao introduced the dance acknowledged the cooperation of Chairman, followed by the singing of numbers, namely, Pamana ng Joseph Gonzales who contributed the both the Philippines and Canada’s Luzviminda’s La Jota Manilena, and participation of the children in the national hymns by the Panday Tinig Jeannette Perrignon and Sonny Moroz’ FAMAS Heritage class. Choral Ensemble, conducted by Paul dance number called Kuratsa. Sonny It was obvious that team work. Imperial. Panday Tinig members Moroz mentioned that he learned this coordination of efforts towards a played a major role in all the musical dance from the teaching of Jeannette. common goal of celebrating Filipino numbers and introduced by Editha Joseph Gonzales made Heritage Month and the commitment Fedalizo, namely, Bayan Ko, a solo by several introductions, starting with the by all members of this group Carmina Franco; Awit ni Maria Clara by oath of allegiance, Panunumpa sa contributed to the success of the show. the Panday Tinig Trio (Magnolia Watawat, and a poem under the title Sa A long agenda was provided to Camat, Cora Baquiran and Raquel Aking Mga Kabata (To my fellow Al Abdon, Chairman, FHSM everyone invited to see this Estrogue); Kundiman by the Panday children) by Rondel Talabocon who is Al Abdon, Chairman (who I presumed presentation which made it easy to male trio (Ruel Arevalo, Gerry from the Famas Heritage class, Sa Mga videotaped the various elements of the Baquiran, Jessie Pascual). Editha also Kabataan (To the Youth) by Jhun Diaz, show) called on Councilor Marvin www.filipinostar.org June 2021 The North American Filipino Star 15 warmly greeted the association. Here Filipino Heritage Council of Canada in are the officers who introduced the Toronto), Ryan Abenir (Coordinator, guests: Minda Mazzone, Jeannette United Peace Federation in Toronto), Sir Perignon, Ricardo Ribaya, Edith Dario Boco (President, Council of Fedalizo, Dolores Belandres, Amy Canadian Filipino Associations of Manon-og, and Kimberly Gultia. A feast Quebec), Lolita Odulio (Vice Chairman for the eyes were the ladies in of Seniors of West Island and Suburbs, Filipiniana attire and Barong for the SWIS), Ador Bolusan (Ex-Officio of Social Tidbits gentlemen. The program started with Filipino Canadian Association of West the rendition of our Philippine National Island, FCAWI), Elvira Estopa Community News Anthem by the Panday Tinig. Guest of (President of Quebec Association of Honor was the Philippine Ambassador Filipino Canadian Teachers, QAFCT), Fely Rosales Cariño to Canada, Honourable Rodolfo Allan Cunanan (Chairperson, Filipino Hi everyone! Here are some Mazzone, the Panday Tinig Ensemble Robles. Snowdon City Councilor Marvin Canadian Community of South Shore, beautiful phrases we want to hear: and a host of others. As always, Marvin Rotrand and FHSM Chairman Al Abdon FCCSS), Dr. Kimberly Manning opening soon, no more masks, no Rotrand’s patriotic greeting was full of gave their individual greetings. Youth (Principal, Simone de Beauvoir more social distancing, no more notice stories about the Philippines. David singer Rondel Talabocon from the Institute), Dr. Cynthia Hammond of staying home, etc. Now, we are Birnbaum delivered a heartfelt speech Heritage Kids group recited (Professor, Arts History, Concordia starting to see the light at the end of the and Sonny Moroz’s well wishes was Panunumpa sa Watawat. He did it University), Christina Altares (President, tunnel. Yes, I can hardly contain myself. endearing. By the way, was it only me eloquently. Filipino Canadian Association-Vaudreuil I want to call my friends and go to who detected as if Sonny sounded Now, let’s give a hand to our Solange), Dr. Dinh Huy Duong restaurants of our choice again. We more like a seasoned politician friendly local dignitaries from the (Cardiologist, Charles Lemoyne want to go to exercise again. We want campaigning for an elected office? I’m political arena who expressed their well Hospital, representing the Vietnamese our normal lives back. Yes, it’s looking just wondering (wink wink!) wishes: Sameer Zuberi (MP, Community), Jimmy Chan (Founder good right now. Let’s bow our heads FAMAS President Romeo Pierrefonds-DDO), Hon. , and President, Montreal Chinatown and say, “Thank You, Lord!” Remigio and the other lady officers Minister of Foreign Affair (MP, Notre- United Care Committee), Timothy Chan Here is somebody who was were busy with all the snacks served in Dame-de-Grace/Westmount), Hon. (President, Chinese Canadian thinking about outings a month ago, a front of the FAMAS Center. The , Minister of Families, Historical and Cultural Society), and time when it was impossible to think of gathering was enhanced by the Children & Social Development (MP, Gail Marcovitz (President, Canadian picnics or outdoor activities. She is confident emceeing of FAMAS Vice- York South-Weston) Anthony Jewish Association). Monica Regacho. She called up her President Joseph Gonzales. Bravo, Housefather (MP, Mount Royal), Francis To further liven up the event, friends and organized potlucks and Joseph! You did a commendable job! Scarpaleggia (MP, Lac-St. Louis), the following entertainers gave their bingo sessions. All of them met at Van The Filipino Heritage Society of (MP, Outremont), signature performances: singer Horne Park and enjoyed the afternoon Montreal (FHSM) with Chairman Al David Birnbaum (MNA, D’Arcy-McGee), Carmina Franco (Bayan Ko, Ano Kaya until sundown. Trans Liganor, Flor de la Abdon as the producer and a slew of Alex Bottausci (Mayor, DDO), Lionel Ang Kapalaran), Thea de la Cruz (Isang Cruz, and other friends joined also. Perez (City Councilor, Darlington), Lahi), Manny Cruz and Friends Monica just can’t wait till the casinos will (Harana), and Youth singers Renzie, open again. She plans to organize trips Nico, Bella, and Chris. Last but not least for seniors to go a-gambling. was Manny Rosello (Philippine History). As the beautiful sunshine Folk dances performed were Sayaw sa peeks more often, I heard that some Bangko by Pamana and Carinosa by organizations are planning their the FHSM dancers. Congratulations to summer gigs. For one, I was told that all participants who gave it their all! Pista Sa Nayon of the Filipino What a spectacular show! Association of Montreal and Suburbs Finally, I would like to offer my (FAMAS) will be held July 11, 2021. Still sincere apologies and make the not sure if it’s online or in-person. The appropriate corrections to the following Chess Club will have a big gathering Knights of Rizal (KOR) donors. this July for a Chess Tournament and/or Somehow, saying a simple “Thank You” maybe an election of a new set of isn’t really enough to show our officers. Cherry Palmos of the Chess appreciation. But be assured that the Club have to give more details next ONDOY flood victims in the Philippines issue. are so touched by your generosity. The sun’s rays brightly Thank God for the following, kind- appeared on June 12, 2021 during the hearted and compassionate donors: Philippine Independence celebration Vito & Josie Vosilla ($30), Marcy Ellasus that featured the flag raising ceremony. & family ($20), Satish and Norma Vohra It was held in front of the FAMAS Center ($100), Jose (Totoy) & Amelia in Van Horne St., Montreal. FAMAS Quiambao ($50), Illumin Slawik ($5), Andy & Lily Reyes ($60), Bella invited guests to help celebrate the L-R: Ricardo Ribaya, Editha Fedalizo, Paul Imperial, Councilor Marvin Hernandez Sorensen ($25), Gaetana occasion. Present were Snowdon City Rotrand, Al Abdon, David Birnbaum MNA, Sonny Moroz, Stephanie Councilor Marvin Rotrand, D’Arcy Valenzuela, Alberto Abiera, Fely Rosales, Valent Llyod Hughes, Forgione (20), Joevic Soriano & family McGee Councilor David Birnbaum, Luzviminda Mazzone. Seated (L-R): Jeannette Perignon and Amelia ($50) and the City of Montreal–CDN- FHSM Adviser and Outreach Manon-og NDG ($825), c/o Marvin Rotrand. Again, Coordinator Sonny Moroz, Sir Dario assistants managed the online launch Magda Popeanu (Councilor, CDN), our profound and deep thanks! Boco, Sir James de la Paz (and of June as the Heritage Month of Christian Arseneault (Councilor, Stay hopeful. Be optimistic. charming wife Rose), Sir Gerry Danzil, Montreal. This is a momentous Loyola), Frank Baylis (former MP, Bring out your sweetest smile! See you Sir Ray Balansi, Sir Bert Abiera, Sir Al occasion! The event was highlighted by Pierrefonds-DDO), Sonny Moroz next issue. And God Bless !!! Abdon, Federation President Minda the participation of local dignitaries who (Outreach Coordinator and Adviser, FHSM), Tony San Juan (Chairman,

Rotrand to say a few words at the end of the program. It was quite an evening, different from the big parties we have had in the past. Perhaps, the literary works and life of Dr. Jose Rizal which form part of the prescribed curriculum in the Philippines should also be taught in our schools here for the benefit of our youth born in Canada who may not necessarily learn about Dr. Jose Rizal who sacrified his life and Rejean Aquino sings Sa Ugoy ng Carmina Franco. Panday Tinig paved the way for Philippine Duyan, accompanied on the piano soprano, sings Bayan Ko, and also Bert Abiera, Vice-Chairman, FHSM by Editha Fedalizo. Independence.# plays wthwe pwia.fniloip. inostar.org june 2021 16 The North American Filipino Star

Anne Curtis Tip from Gretchen shares touching Barretto: Don't live for moment when her dad finally approval of people met baby Dahlia

Anne Curtis is so thrilled that her dad was finally able to meet her Gretchen Barretto baby daughter Dahlia, who turned a year old last March. Dealing with criticism? Here's "They (bashers) used to 'Okay, I know everything I do is going Incidentally, Curtis’ dad first a tip from Gretchen Barretto. bother me when I was so much to matter to them.'" saw his granddaughter just in time for Speaking with beauty doctor younger... because I lived in a world Barretto said she learned Father’s Day. to the stars Aivee Teo, the actress where I felt that all they thought of me how to handle criticism from her “A year and a bit in the making said she has reached the point in her or their opinion would matter, or that's long-time partner, businessman but it finally happened. There’s a little life where she is no longer bothered all it mattered. But not anymore," she Tonyboy Cojuangco. bit of shyness but we’re getting there,” with what people are saying about said. She recalled one of her the actress wrote in the caption of her her. conversations with Cojuangco, back Instagram post. when she was overly affected by her “This moment truly made my mother's remarks. heart soooooo happy. Happy Father’s "It was a long time ago, when Day to our gentle giant. We love you so my mom had like opinions of me... much,” she added. and I was really, terribly distraught," she said. The actress went on: "He (Cojuangco) said... 'I'll ask you one question.' Because I was really getting depressed. He goes, 'Will it matter? Will your life change?' He's really good at that. And then I said, 'No, not really.'" "And then he said to me, 'Then why are you bothered?' Then it opened my life. I learned na, oo nga ano. I mean, do they have control Curtis, her husband Erwan over my life, my lifestyle, or anything Huessaff and Dahlia only returned to else?" she stressed. the Philippines last February after over "Whatever the situation is, I a year of being based in Melbourne. learned [that] whatever you accept is Curtis and Heussaff had been what it will be." in Australia since December 2019, as Barretto and the rest of her they prepared to welcome their showbiz clan have become involved firstborn away from the limelight. in many controversies over the years. The couple had intended to While she is no longer as return to the Philippines earlier, but the active on the big and small screens, coronavirus pandemic delayed that She pointed out that one "I'm 51. I mean, really? How the public still gets to see a glimpse plan. does not live "for the approval of can all your opinion just matter?" she of her daily life through Instagram, Currently, Curtis has yet to people," including "bashers." added. "Parang I learned to live like, where she has 1.6 million followers. return to showbiz full-time.  www.filipinostar.org June 2021 The North American Filipino Star 17 wanted to become a singer until musicals… Even to this day, I she was 18. It all began when have a lot of nervousness when she felt a certain “kilig” when it comes to the arena of music Catriona Gray she recorded her voice for a because I feel such a newbie Mother’s Day tribute and heard and I feel there’s a lot of room her voice beaming from the for me to prove myself…” shares hardship as speakers. Similarly, she hopes “I’ve always been “R.Y.F,” now streaming in major breadwinner at 21 passionate about music and music platforms under ABS- I’ve been trained, vocal lessons CBN and CS Music, and everything, when I came will inspire listeners to stand up back to the Philippines after my for someone or something. reign,” shared Gray. “I hope this song could “Because I would just be a reflection that life isn’t sing along in the house. I easy, getting to a dream isn’t always loved listening to music easy… But just keep that and all throughout my internal compass to get you into academic life, I would always be the right direction!” year due to in the choir and I took part in the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Sarah Geronimo, Matteo Guidicelli get vaccinated, urge followers to do the same

Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray Before Catriona Gray decision to live in the became Miss Universe 2018, Philippines at that time. and now, a recording star, the “I felt like I was such a Filipino-Australian beauty also disappointment to my family went through hardship as a and it was a very hard time to breadwinner of her family at the me.” young age of 21. Catriona, however, found During her recent virtual her way out of the dark tunnel press conference for her new by being a Christian. single “R.Y.F,” Catriona recalled “But it was very true in a low point in her life and how strengthening my faith, she overcame it. because that’s how I started my Matteo Guidicelli & “There were multiple faith journey as a Christian. That times when I was giving up and really pulled me out from that.” Celebrity couple Sarah In recent weeks, dozens felt like I wasn’t good enough,” True enough, her faith Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli of showbiz workers, including she began. led her to her advocacy to each received their first dose of actors and performers, have “One of them was when I promote children’s welfare and the COVID-19 vaccine, with the been vaccinated as part of the was quite young. I was 21. I was education, which eventually led actor urging his followers to do recently opened A4 priority breadwinner of my family at that her to try her luck in pageants the same. category for economic time and I didn’t have any new that enabled her to speak more On his social media frontliners, or those who are work opportunity coming in and and raise funds for her causes. channels, Guidicelli shared a required to work outside of their I just felt like I kept getting ‘no,’ “And also I was photo of him with Gernimo, homes. like every single opportunity introduced into volunteerism posing to show their As of Monday, June 21, kept closing on me.” that introduced me to vaccination marks on their the Philippines has Catriona, who was then a pageantry so I was all of a shoulder. administered over 8.4 million budding model, didn’t know sudden feeling that si Lord is “Sarah and I are done doses of COVID-19 vaccines what to do with her life. guiding me talaga. He’s like, with our 1st dose! Let’s do this since March, according to the “I was like, ‘Is there ‘Wait lang anak! I have not just for ourselves but for our Department of Health. something wrong with me? Am something for you. Be patient families, friends and Of the number, 6.2 I kulang? Don’t have I anything lang!” kababayans! Get vaccinated!” million were given as first good to offer?’ Like I She encourages parents Guidicelli wrote. doses, while some 2.1 million questioned everything about to be supportive of their The actor did not were second doses. Recipients myself.” children’s dreams, too. She, for indicate where he and of the latter are considered fully She also doubted her one, didn’t realize that she Geronimo got their first jab. vaccinated.  www.filipinostar.org 18 June 2021 avoid large gatherings and continue to “ observe existing measures for public Our liberty will not be health and safety. secured at the sword's We live in difficult times, but there point... We must secure it by is always space for joy. Maligayang araw making ourselves worthy of ng kalayaan! Mabuhay! it. And when the people reaches that height, God will provide a weapon, the idols will be shattered, tyranny will crumble like a house of cards, and liberty will shine out like the first dawn.” Jose Rizal

Today, Filipinos remember their The Philippines is now a proud homeland’s long road to liberation. In the and trusted member of the international wake of revolution, General Emilio community, and its people enrich Alberta Aguinaldo proclaimed the Philippines to each day with their traditions and culture. be a free nation on June 12, 1898. AS ALBERTANS OF FILIPINO HERITAGE However, it would not be until July 4, reflect on the triumphs and tragedies of 1946, that the Philippines truly gained their ancestral history, it is tempting to independence and took control of its celebrate as a community. This year, I destiny. encourage everyone to be responsible,

Baylis Medical is happy to join in the Filipino Heritage Month celebrations

www.filipinostar.org June 2021 The North American Filipino Star 19

JoyeuxJoyyeueuuxx 123e anniversaireanniivversaersaire de ll’indépendance’’indépinndépendance desd Philippines.Philippines. FélicitationsFFélicélicitations à l’occasionl’’ooccassion du Mois duu patrimoinepatrimoine philippinphhilippin au CaCanada.Cannada. Best wishes andd congratulations too all FilipinosFili i MaligayangMaligayang bati sa ika-1233 anniversaryo on the occasion of the 123r123rdd AAnniversary ng kalayaanaan ng Pilipinas ata pagdiriwang of the IndependeIndependenceence of their hohomeland, ng Filipinoilipino Heritage MonthMonth sa buan the Philippines. JJuneune 2021 is alalso ng Hunyonyo sa Canada the ThirThirdd AnnuaAnnuall Filipino Heritage Month in Canada.

MarwahM Rizqy PierrePierre ArcandArcand

DéputéeD de - MNA for Député de - MNA forr Saint-LaurentSSaint-Laurent Mont-Royal-OutrMont-Royal-Outremontemoont [email protected]@[email protected] [email protected]@[email protected]

GregoryGGregory Kelley David BirnbaumBirnbaum

DéputéD de - MNA for Député de - MNA forr Jacques-CartierJ D’Arcy-McGeeD’Arcy-McGee [email protected]@[email protected] [email protected]@[email protected]

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

D CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17 Bulakenya being How pushed to become first disposed of excess Black Filipina Miss pounds Universe

Chelsea Anne Manalo Chelsea Anne Manalo said: “Pinoy surname, Pinoy beauty, Bea Alonzo became the talk of the town after a Pinoy features #filipino #filipinopride Actress Bea Alonzo actually epitome of fitness but I want to do it Facebook page posted a rumored list #filipina.” shared the same problem. properly and I feel good, I feel better of Miss Universe Philippines 2021 Some of the comments were Early this year, she revealed about myself…” aspirants. also projections about her. via her vlog how she actually gained 15 “And I am proud of that. I am The 22-year-old stunner from Loverly Buladaco, one of the to 20 pounds following the onset of the proud that I have lost 15 pounds the Meycauayan, Bulacan is a Filipino- top comments, said: “I can feel the pandemic all because she just can’t healthy way.” American who is not new in the Ms. Universe vibe on her.” stop eating. But how did she do it? pageant scene. Kimberly Daño commented: Eventually, she lost her desire Well, according to Bea it’s all In 2017, she joined Miss “She’s the one... she’ll get the crown! to exercise as well. about patience, sacrifice, hard work, World Philippines and landed in the Mark it!” Top 15 finalists. Michelle Mielkhaeylla also Now that she is reportedly said: “This One! She will slay the joining Miss Universe Philippines, stage for Sure.”

“I was kind of exercising pero dedication. hindi gaya ng workouts ko before,” she A certified foodie, Bea did related. away with tasty but fattening meals, Unlike others, Bea didn’t sulk. enlisting the help of nutritionist, Ian She vowed to get rid of the Matthew. excess pounds and “to lead a healthier The night owl also changed life.” her sleeping habits. And she did. “I’m trying to get eight hours of Filipino pageants fans could not stop If the Bulakenya beauty wins Just recently, she shared her sleep every day. I also try to drink lots raving about her. Miss Universe Philippines 2021, she is progress with fans, noting how she of water…” The photo of Manalo believed to be the first-ever Filipino- already 15 pounds since January. Bea then transformed her uploaded in the Facebook page of African American who will represent Bea shared, “Hindi ko alam entertainment room into a gym. Philippine Pageants has now the country in Miss Universe. kung halata ninyo, but halata ko dahil She would go on to hire trainer garnered 242,000 likes, 5,500 Miss Universe Philippines has sa mga damit ko…” Jay Garcia, working out twice a day, comments, and 11,000 shares as of yet to release the official list of Bea is not concerned that four to five times a week. writing. candidates. The deadline for people might think her progress slow “I’m just sharing this thinking LorraineAnn Facundo submission of applications is on June or she doesn’t look as fit as she might na baka makatulong din sa inyo,” she commented: “Living black barbie.” 24.  think. said.  Meanwhile, Luzvi Morales She said, “I am not the www.filipinostar.org June 2021 The North American Filipino Star 21 memorable to me, especially boxing, Magkakaroon tayo ng online concert. which is my favorite sport. It’s fun Malaking bagay ito at karangalan (to learning from the best.” be part of it). Isa itong (paraan) na The uploaded video also makakapag-bigay ng encouragement Manny bonds with featured snippets of the 42-year-old and inspiration to all our kababayan,” senator as a doting family man, said Manny. including how he is with their youngest The digital concert will be sons Jimuel and son, Israel. headlined by renowned musicians and Meanwhile, the Filipino sports singers, namely, David Pomeranz, Lea icon is also the major supporter of the Salonga, Regine Velasquez, Apl De upcoming Isang Tinig, Isang Lahi Ap, Gary Valenciano, Martin Nievera, Michael over music event where he will render his Joe Mari Chan, , Bamboo, songs Para Sa ‘Yo Ang Laban Na ‘To Maymay Entrata, Ian Veneracion, Moira and Lalaban Ako Para Sa Pilipino, and dela Torre and many others. music, sports probably a duet with Pilita Corrales. The charity music event will “Posible naman. Maganda ‘yan (duet also have a simultaneous donation with Pilita). Gusto ko ‘yung mga kanta drive for the benefit of Caritas niya dati.” Philippines projects, the Caring Hearts Manny will join other local and Foundation, Inc. in the United States, international music icons for the free PGH Medical Foundation, Inc., Tuloy virtual concert organized by Filipino Foundation, Inc., ABS-CBN American Voice United (FAVU) and Foundation, Inc., Philippine Relief and spearheaded by Cory Quirino on ABS- Development Services, Inc. and CBN’s digital venue KTX.ph on June 26 Volunteers Against Crime and at 8 p.m. and June 27, 10 a.m. Corruption (VACC).  “The event is so unique.

Manny fully supports his son Michael Pacquio’s music career.

Manny would love to see Jimuel and help a lot of people and I just want to Michael perform on stage and have be like you. You’re not only an musical experience. “Gusto ko inspiration to me but also to a lot of magkaroon sila ng experience sa people. I look up to you, dad.” pagkanta, especially Michael. Michael shared that his best Gustong-gusto niyang kumanta at moment with dad Manny is when they gumawa ng kanta. Gusto niya siya rin play basketball. “‘Coz we always play nag-co-compose, nag-a-arrange,” said together. If I have the opportunity, I he, who had released albums in the would ask if I could play with him. Then past. “‘Yung anak ko na si Michael he would play basketball, sa GenSan, mahilig talaga sa music. ‘Yung kuwarto sa Dasma. That’s one of the best niya, puro gamit ng music eh. Sana memories I’ve had because (it’s a) makita ko sila na kumakanta sa stage.” father-and-son (thing). I love basketball In a Father’s Day video posted as well. It really has a place in my heart. on Sunday by Jinkee on Facebook, his Good luck sa fight,” the 19-year-old children Jimuel, Michael, Princess and said. Manny’s next boxing match is Queenie shared their thoughtful with Errol Spence Jr. in August. greetings for their dad and their favorite Meanwhile, apart from acting, moments with him. 20-year-old Jimuel also enjoys boxing

Manny with son Jimuel CLEANERS NEEDED Daytime or evening (after 6pm) Michael said, “We love you so as a sport and he considers it as his much. We are blessed, happy and favorite moment with father. He office cleaning 5 days per week honored to be your children. Hope you recalled during quarantine how they with the best.” would bond together through boxing. (Monday to Friday) Jimuel followed with this sweet “We were able to train together. He message, “I just want you to know that actually trained me. We do the Car required, $19 per hour. Call you always inspire us. Especially me, (punching) mitts together. And he gave when it comes to what I want to be. I me a lot of pointers when it comes to Michael 514 624-3437 want to follow in your footsteps. You footwork and boxing. That was very ww.filipinostar.org June 2021 22 The North American Filipino Star New global study on dangerous health impacts of Osttamwa/Caonbekrra/eBrazil/fLorndoon:m16/17 faowarmeing swortld, anfdiorn perimsary anid nhcad flululy ddoubilenthegnormaCl numabenr of aPdrevea ntion and preparation are the June 2021 secondary health services.” visits to our ER for asthma over two prescription for reducing the health As firefighting crews from Dr. Sarah Henderson, and a half months. We need to impacts of wildfires and there is no British Columbia and Alberta deploy to Scientific Director, Environmental anticipate further wildfires, and make time to lose.” help fight wildfires in Quebec and Key facts: Ontario, even as parts of the Under current greenhouse gas Okanagan in British Columbia set emissions scenarios, wildfires are records for low rainfall this spring, a projected to increase substantially global report on wildfires released across 74% of the world by 2100, and today by the Global Climate and to set off a feedback loop in which Health Alliance emphasizes that wildfires drive forest loss which can bigger, more frequent forest and bush release substantial greenhouse gas fires are having increased and not yet emissions, which in turn cause more well-studied health impacts on people, wildfires in a reinforcing feedback including through longer and more loop. frequent exposure to fire smoke by Smoke from forest fires and larger populations in distant cities. bushfires travel significant distances, The report, The Limits of with smoke from the 2019-2020 Livability - The emerging threat of bushfires in Australia travelling 66,000 smoke impacts on health from forest km and smoke from fires in Alberta, fires and climate change, with case Canada in 2019 travelling as far as studies from Canada, Australia, and Europe. Brazil, warns that worldwide, Wildfire smoke can lead to governments must act to prepare significant spikes in air pollution, while public health systems for the impacts longer burning fires can expose to the public from recurring air significant populations to increased air pollution episodes from fires caused pollution over a long period of time. by the climate crisis, deforestation Annually recurring major fires increase practices, and poor land management. exposure year on year. “What The Limits of Livability The 2017 fires in Canada report shows us is that climate change, prompted a 10-week stage of climate impacts and health are emergency, yet public health guidance intertwined, and that policymakers on wildfire response is premised on must put health concerns front and smoke exposures of three days to one centre when creating policies for week. dealing with climate change including The report can be downloaded in their national commitments under from the Global Climate and Health the Paris Agreement, the Nationally Alliance website here: Determined Commitments (NDCs),” https://climateandhealthalliance.org/th said Jeni Miller, Executive Director of e-limits-of-livability/ the Global Climate and Health Alliance. Country snapshots on Canada, Brazil “The implementation of both and Australia are available. systematic monitoring and reduction of Interviews available with: air pollution from forest fires must go Dr. Courtney Howard, ER hand-in-hand with reducing the causes physician, CAPE Past-President, of forest fires and an improved public Global Climate and Health Alliance health response. Ultimately global Board Member, Yellowknife leaders, including those in the [email protected] countries experiencing the worst forest Health Services, British Columbia sure our communities know their Dr. Samantha Green, Family and bush fires, must step up and limit Center for Disease Control, said in an evacuation plans and have clean air Physician, Climate Change and Health the warming of the planet through interview for the report, “What tends to shelters, and that our home and Lead UofT Department of Family and rapid climate action,” Miller said. happen as smoke comes, is hospital ventilation systems can cope Community Medicine, CAPE Board Lead author of the report, Dr. everybody gets all worked up about it, with severe smoke. And to prevent Member, Toronto Frances MacGuire said, “The short- and then it leaves, and then they forget smoke that we can’t adapt to, we need [email protected] term health effects of forest smoke are about it, and then maybe the next year to meet and exceed our greenhouse Dr. Claudel Petrin-Descrosiers, now well documented but the long- is not a bad year...but this problem is gas reduction goals. Here in Canada, Available for French-language term effects of extended exposure are with us for decades. And it’s going to the most urgent action item is that we interviews, Family Practice Resident, unknown. It is clear that there are have long-term health consequences.” need to make sure Bill-C12, our draft President Quebec Association of significant research gaps in Past-president of CAPE, climate governance legislation, gets Physicians for the Environment and understanding the full health impacts wildfire researcher and ER doctor Dr. passed before the House of Commons CAPE Board Member, Quebec of smoke from increased wildfire risk in Courtney Howard said, “In 2014 we and the Senate rise for the summer. [email protected]

These important steps will victims by demonstrating all that they Canada announces 3 new initiatives to help Canada offer asylum to more contribute to our country. Today, the people who need it, welcome more Minister announced a new policy that welcome and support more refugees refugees through new channels and will help settle 500 refugees and their June 18, 2021—Ottawa—The resettlement.” increase support to those welcomed families. world is facing a refugee crisis. Across Our efforts are making a through community sponsorship. •The new measures will the globe, millions are displaced and difference—yet the world’s most Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot improve the EMPP process by longing for what most of us take for vulnerable are counting on us to do Launched in 2018, the • expediting the processing of granted: a safe place to call home. As more. In advance of World Refugee Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot permanent residence applications for a global leader in protecting those who Day, the Honourable Marco E. L. (EMPP) is a ground-breaking initiative EMPP applicants in several streams, need it most, Canada welcomed nearly Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, that recognizes the talents and skills of so they can start working and half of all refugees resettled around the Refugees and Citizenship, met with refugees by welcoming them through contributing faster world in 2020. The United Nations High UNHCR’s representative in Canada, economic immigration streams. This •making it easier for refugees Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Rema Jamous Imseis, to announce 3 not only allows Canada to welcome recently called Canada “a bright light new initiatives to assist even more more refugees, but also flips the See Page 23 Canada announces in a horrible year for refugee refugees. stereotype of refugees as solely

www.filipinostar.org June 2021 The North American Filipino Star 23 U.S. border restrictions extended to July 21,

PSaMrah cTuirtnbeusll desire to stickTtraonspvaarecnccy iAncet” tthatrwgoeuldts require CTVNews.ca Producer the Department of Homeland Security, @TurnbullSarah Contact the Department of State, and the U.S. Published Friday, June 18, 2021 Centers for Disease Control to report

World leaders gather on the beach in Carbis Bay for a photo on Friday, the first day of the summit. Pictured (left to right): Justin Trudeau, Canada's prime minister; Charles Michel, president of the European Council; US President Joe Biden, Yoshihide Suga, Japan's prime minister; Boris Johnson, the UK's prime minister; Mario Draghi, Italy's prime minister; Emmanuel Macron, France's president; Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission and Angela Merkel, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is seen on an iPad during a virtual news Germany's chancellor. (BBC News) June 11, 2021 conference on the COVID-19 pandemic from his residence at Rideau refugees. When others close their Cottage in Ottawa, Friday, June 18, 2021. THE CANADIAN From Page 22 Canada announces doors, we keep them open. We will PRESS/Justin Tang keep looking for new ways to support under EMPP to get settlement funds and welcome refugees, because 10:39AM EDT back to Congress within 30 days on a •waiving fees for permanent offering refuge to the world’s most Last Updated Friday, June 18, 2021 plan to reopen the border. residence applications vulnerable speaks to who we are as 12:55PM EDT Jacobs said he was •making the application Canadians.” OTTAWA -- Prime Minister “heartened” to hear of an additional process more flexible —The Honourable Marco E. L. Justin Trudeau maintains that Canada shipment of one million vaccines being •providing pre-departure Mendicino, P.C., M.P., Minister of will need to meet the COVID-19 sent to Canada from the U.S. and medical services to assist with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship vaccines target of 75 per cent of the hopes it may help accelerate progress. immigration medical exams Quick facts: total population with a first dose and 20 “We need laser focus on this. Protected persons in Canada •Throughout the pandemic, per cent with two doses before his Every day that is delayed is a day that Despite the many challenges Canada is one of few countries that government lifts border restrictions. people are going to make travel plans of the pandemic, Canada’s asylum never closed its doors and continued Speaking to news that the U.S, to go somewhere else. If we open in levels have remained stable. We are to resettle refugees. Canada border will remain closed to mid-August, I don’t know how helpful now building on this success by •In 2018, Canada committed non-essential travel for another month, that will be because everybody will increasing the number of protected to resettling 10,000 refugees from Trudeau said Friday that, while he have already scheduled things persons we’ll welcome this year from Africa and the Middle East by 2020. understands the urgency to return to elsewhere,” he said. 23,500 to 45,000. We will also expedite Despite COVID-19 challenges and some semblance of normality, Trudeau said he spoke with the processing of applications, travel restrictions, Canada delivered on permitting discretionary travel now the premiers about the border on a meaning that more protected persons its Middle East commitment, and will would risk another wave of cases in Thursday night call and there was a can quickly become permanent soon do so for Africa. this country. consensus to maintain the status quo. residents and put down roots in their •In 2019, Canada resettled “We’re not out of this “I can tell you there is communities. more than 30,000 refugees. Refugee pandemic yet, we’re still seeing cases tremendous focus on making sure Currently, there are over resettlement during the pandemic has across the country and we want to get we’re working together to do this as 40,000 protected persons and their been limited by many factors, including them down. At the same time, we also quickly and safely as possible because dependants residing in Canada with travel restrictions. Despite these know we have to hit our targets of 75 we all want to get back to normal, open permanent residence challenges, we welcomed over 9,200 per cent vaccinated with the first dose, which means, yes moving quickly, but applications. In 2021, almost 17,900 refugees in 2020. at least 20 per cent vaccinated with the it also means avoiding any further protected persons became permanent •In December 2020, Canada second dose before we can start massive waves,” he said. residents. started to accept applications for loosening things up because even a President and CEO of the Private Sponsorship of Refugees permanent residence from pending fully vaccinated individual can pass on Business Council of Canada Goldy Program and unsuccessful refugee claimants Canada’s Private Sponsorship COVID-19 to someone who is not Hyder said he was “disappointed” by who worked in Canada’s health care of Refugees Program is a world- vaccinated,” he said. the border news. sector and provided direct care to leading initiative, helping us welcome Public Safety Minister “Our two countries have patients during the pandemic. As of more refugees and better equipping announced earlier in the day that the missed an opportunity to make May 29, 2021, approximately 4,345 them for lasting success. Since it current U.S. land border measures amendments to the border agreement applications had been received. began over 5 decades ago, private would remain in place until July 21. which would recognize the increasing •Refugees who face sponsors have welcomed more than The restrictions, which came into effect number of people who are fully immediate risks may be resettled 350,000 refugees to Canada. This in March 2020, exempt the flow of trade vaccinated against COVID-19,” he under Canada’s Urgent Protection program is now emulated all over the and commerce, as well as the said. Program. This program provides world, from the United Kingdom and movement of vital health-care workers Trudeau also described the expedited resettlement to refugees the European Union to New Zealand, such as nurses who live and work on two-tracked approach to develop a whose life, liberty or safety is and the US has committed to creating opposite sides of the border. vaccine documentation framework. immediately threatened. one as well. Blair also noted that the “First of all, in the initial phase, •In July, the Government of To further strengthen this government will provide further details we’re going to be working with the Canada will become the second Chair program, IRCC recently launched a about its phased approach to easing AriveCAN app in ways that people an of the Central America and Mexico national call for proposals to improve restrictions for fully vaccinated image of their paper proof of Comprehensive Regional Protection existing pre- and post-arrival support individuals on Monday. vaccination or online proof of and Solutions Framework (MIRPS) services for private sponsors and On Thursday, tourism groups vaccination so that the border agents Support Platform. Canada will ensure refugees take full advantage of and Canadian and U.S. politicians on their return to Canada can verify champion the issue of protection, the assistance offered to them. As a participated in a panel discussion indeed that they are fully vaccinated,” meaningful participation and the result of this process, up to $3 million about the need to reopen the border to he said, adding this process will be in empowerment of displaced women over 2 years will be invested in support hurting industries and place in the coming weeks. and girls. This theme will provide supporting 9 organizations. businesses at risk of permanently In the long-term he said the opportunities for Canadian leadership Quote closing due to the pandemic. government is working with the in putting women, girls and those “This year’s World Refugee provinces on a “national certification vulnerable to gender-based violence, Day comes at a challenging time, New York Rep. Chris Jacobs, who sat of vaccination status” that he assures including LGBTQ2 communities, at the because the pandemic has made the on the panel, introduced last week the will be accepted globally. heart of solutions. “Northern Border Reopening situation worse. That’s why Canada is redoubling its efforts to welcome www.filipinostar.org June 2021 24 The North American Filipino Star

NOUS SOUHAITONS À TOUTES LES PERSONNES DE LA COMMUNAUTÉ PHILIPPINE JOYEUSE FÊTE DE L’INDÉPENDANCE ET BON MOIS DU PATRIMOINE PHILIPPIN ! DE LA PART DE VOS DÉPUTÉS FÉDÉRAUX LIBÉRAUX EN CETTE PÉRIODE DE DISTANCIATION PHYSIQUE, SOYEZ PRUDENTS.

WISHING EVERYONE FROM THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY A HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY AND A HAPPY HERITAGE MONTH! FROM YOUR FEDERAL LIBERAL MPs IN THIS PERIOD OF PHYSICAL DISTANCING, BE CAREFUL.

TRÈS HON. JUSJUSTINTIN TRUDEATRUDEAUU ANJU DHILLONDHILLON EMMANUELMANUELL DUBOURG FAYÇALFFAAAYYÇALL EL-KHOURYEL-KHOURYHOURY HON. MARC GARNEAUGARNEAU HON. STEVENSTEVEN GUILBEAULTGUILBEAULLTT ANTHONYNTHONYY HOUSEFHOUSEFATHERFAATHER MP / Député MP / Députée MPM / Député MP / Députéputé MP / Député MP / Député MP / Député Papineau Dorval – Lachine – LaSalle Bourassa Laval – Less ÎÎles Notre-Dame-de-GrâceNotre-Dame-de-Grâce – Laurier – Sainte-Marie Mont-Royalnt-Royal / Mount Royal [email protected]@parl.gc.ca [email protected] [email protected]@parl.gc.ca [email protected]@[email protected] WestmountWestmount [email protected]@parl.gc.ca [email protected]@parl.gc.ca (514) 277-6020 (514) 639-4497 (514)(5514) 323-1212 (450) 689-45944594 [email protected]@parl.gc.ca 514-522-1339 (514) 283-0171 (514) 283-2013

ANGELOANGELO IACONOIACONO HON. MÉLANIE JOLJOLYLYY ANNIENNIE KOUTRAKISKOUTRAKIS EMMANUELLA LAMBROPOULLAMBROPOULOSBROPOULOS HON. DAVIDDAVID LAMETTI PATRICIAPPAATRICIAA LATTANZIOLATTTANZIOANZIO SORAYASORARAAYYYAA MARMARTINEZTINEZ FERRADFERRADAA MP / Député MP / Députée MPM / Députée MP / Députéeutée MP / Députép MP / Députée MP / Députée AlfrAlfred-Pellaned-Pellan Ahuntsic-Cartierville VVimyimy Saint-LaurSaint-Laurentrent LaSalle– Émard–ÉmarÉ d– VerdunVVererdunn Saint-LéonardSaint-Léonard – Saint-Michel Hochelaga [email protected]@parl.gc.ca [email protected] [email protected]@parl.gc.ca [email protected]@[email protected] [email protected]@parl.gc.ca [email protected]@parl.gc.ca Soraya.MartinezFerrada@[email protected] (450) 661-4117 (514) 383-3709 (4(450)450) 973-5660 (514) 335-66556655 (514) 363-0954 (514) 256-4548 (514) 283-2655

ALEXANDRAA MENDÈS HON. YVESVES ROBILLARD HON. PABLOPPABLABLO RODRIGUEZDRIGUEZ FRANCIS SCARPALEGGIASCCARPARPPALEGGIAALEGGIA SAMEER ZUBERI MP / Députée MP / Député MPM / Député MP / Députéputé MP / Député MP / Député Brossard–Saint-LambertBrossard–Saint-Lambert Ville-MarieVille-Marie – Le Sud-Ouest – Marc-Aurèle-FortinMarrc-Aurèle-Fortin Honoré-MercierHonoré-Merercier Lac-Saint-Louis Pierr Pierrefondsefonds – DollardDollard [email protected]@parl.gc.ca Île-des-Soeurs [email protected]@parl.gc.ca [email protected]@[email protected] [email protected]@parl.gc.ca [email protected]@parl.gc.ca (450) 466-6872 [email protected]@parl.gc.ca (4(450)450) 622-2992 (514) 353-50445044 (514) 695-6661 (514) 624-5725 (514) 496-4885

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