APRIL 2008 Vol. XXVI, No.4 www.filipinostar.org Rice shortage threatens Asia , Three billion people in Asia are the shortages: "When the price of rice rice guzzlers of the world and they are goes higher than a common man can facing a supply shortage. Production pay, heaven ordains a new ruler." at about 420 million tons a year has In Haiti, the prime minister was been static for the past four years. In dismissed after food riots. In Egypt, this period about 100 million additional less publicized food riots have created mouths have been added, which are a storm. In Pakistan, gun-toting police putting a dent in the supply-demand have been guarding food warehouses chain. for the last six months. In Thailand, Prices of rice have shot up 30 farmers with guns are guarding their percent in the two years from 2005 to rice fields. Even if the world gets over 2007 and 40 percent since the middle the present crisis, future crises are of last year alone. These have reached likely to be much more severe. a level, like wheat prices -- which are Expensive food or severe food 130 percent up -- that have made shortages will topple governments and governments nervous. India has unrest will follow. banned the export of most varieties of Of the world's rice, 80 percent is rice, except the high-end basmati rice, grown in Asia -- which also consumes to conserve as much rice at home as it all, plus some. Rain plays the possible. Other rice surplus countries greatest role in rice cultivation. Lack of have followed suit. They are scared of rain is sad news for rice growers. Rice shortages at home and the unrest that cultivation is labor intensive, making it follows shortages. unproductive in countries with high A Chinese saying of earlier times A farmer harvesting rice, a typical scene in the rural areas of an Asian country. is directly applicable to today's food See Page 4 TOURISM PAGE 6 May Ann Miras wins Bb. Pilipinas title

Montreal, April 12, 2008 - Over 600 people witnessed the 34th year of the Bb. Pilipinas beauty pageant sponsored by FAMAS on Saturday, GUIMARAS April 12, 2008 at the Hellenic Community Center. It was probably one of the largest crowd ever gathered Contents for such an event.and a memorable night for all the candidates and their parents. The excitement and anticipation could be felt right from the Cooperative News ...... p. 5 beginning as enthusiastic supporters applauded loudly and cheerfully their Tourism ...... p. 6 favorite candidate. The program featured the past Filstar Photo Gallery . . . p. 12 Bb. Pilipinas title holders who were asked for their advice to the new candidates. Several folk dances were Showbiz Gossip ...... p. 10 performed by the Kalinangan Dance Troup and the Pamana Dance Troup. Classified Ads ...... p. 16 The talent performances of all the candidates added to the evening’s Philippine Cuisine . . . . . p. 16 entertainment to the delight of the audience. All the contestants Community News ...... p. 14 displayed great talents in dancing and singing. Moreover, they were all Global Perspectives . . . . p. 18 beautiful in their swimsuits and evening gowns. The judges must have had a difficult time choosing the winners in the different categories. Marie Antonette Carbon, a 16- year old high school student, won three titles, namely, Miss Popularity, for having sold the most tickets; Miss Charity, for having solicited the most ads in the souvernir programme; and Miss Friendship for having been voted the most helpful by her peers. The title of Best in Evenig Gown. Best in Be a C.I.T.P. (certified int’l trade Swimsuit and Best Talent were professional) Register now at Gilmore International May Ann Miras, newly crowned Bb. Pilipinas - Montreal See Page 4 General College - Call 514-485-7861 www.filipinostar.org APRIL 2008 2 The North American Filipino Star FILIPINO SOLIDARITY FSCI 2004 COOPERATIVE EDITORIAL Coopérative de Solidarité Filipino Think globally, act locally 4711 Van Horne Avenue, Montreal H3W 1H8 We are re-organizing and re-decorating the Filipino Global issues are really local when customers had to pay to use Coop so we have to clear away freezers which are problems which require a concerted them. Perhaps, this is how we should action. This idea is best exemplified discipline ourselves – through our good for the home but not for commercial use. by the celebration of Earth Day on pocketbooks. PLEASE HELP US BY BUYING OFF OUR HANDS April 22, around the world in 174 On the other hand, if we THESE FREEZERS (SEE BELOW) countries. This annual event gives our observe the following environmental- AT REDUCED PRICES. students the chance to teach and friendly measures in the workplace, we become leaders in the movement to may succeed in reducing the waste we save our Earth Earth Day seems to produce everyday: gather more momentum every year. * Buy recycled content, Many polluted waterways have remanufactured, and recyclable office improved. Recycling is widespread. products, and recycle them when Conservation is top of mind. Started in appropriate (including e-cycling the late 1960s amid the "environmental electronics). At a minimum, buy crisis," Earth Day has become a huge recycled paper and recycle it again. success. Or has it? See the small business guide to Although there have been pollution prevention for more some great accomplishments, mostly information: as a result of increased awareness of http://www.epa.gov/ecycling/index.ht environmentalism since the 1960s, it's m. hard to imagine the planet is better off * Clean Out Your Files and recycle today than it was five decades ago. papers you no longer need. Many Despite the community cleanup organizations sponsor cleaning programs, the schoolyard tree weeks; check with your office plantings, the endless legislation and management staff. Check prices of new freezers and then make an offer all the talk, we still have a long way to * Use spell check and proofread because no reasonable offer will be refused. go before we can rest on our laurels. before you print or copy. Print double The main culprit is not government or sided whenever possible. Minimize the industry or agriculture; it is us. Many amount of paper you use. people might do something on Earth * Buy reusable office supplies instead Day, but simply slide back into our of disposable supplies. comfortable ways afterward. There *Set up an area to store and are more of us every day (almost exchange reusable office supplies, double the world population, in fact, such as binders since 1970). SUVs were rare in 1970; * Recycle fluorescent bulbs properly now they dominate the North to prevent hazardous mercury from American highways. Bottled water was entering the environment. We sell not only frozen fish, meat, but also canned and drygoods almost unheard of in 1970; now In addition to individual millions of litres are shipped back and efforts, government initiated programs forth across the oceans daily to suit are worthwhile. For example, the FILIPINO COOP the particular tastes of people who CDN-NDG Borough held a community don't like the stuff from the tap. Lettuce forum on Earth Day, April 22, where (FORMERLY -CUBAO) didn't come in plastic boxes in the they invited citizens to voice their under new administration 1970s. Nobody in Canada had ever opinions as to what should be heard of raspberries in January. Air included in the Green Plan to create an STORE HOURS conditioning is now commonplace in environmental model in five years’ cars and homes. The leafblower has time. How do we promote public Monday to Wednesday - 10 am to 7 pm replaced the rake; the snowblower has transport more actively? Can the Thursday to Friday - 10 am. to 9 pm Borough’s service reduce electric nudged aside the shovel; the electric Saturday-Sunday - 10 am to 6 pm hedge trimmer and the weed-whacker consumption, use more fuel efficient are making the garden shears vehicles, switch to cleaner fuels? Is Telephone: 514-733-8915 obsolete. our tree policy sufficient? Can we add Lately, we have had a debate more mini-parks? Is our garbage Not yet a member? Support your first and only whether or not to ban the use of plastic policy outdated? Do we need more Filipino cooperative in Canada. Be a member now! shopping bags. They are usually recycling and composting? Do we given free to every shopper but they need to modify snow removal policies? TANGKILIKIN ANG SARILING ATIN end up in trash cans, or on the streets. More public discussions and Is it a good idea to ban them research are certanly going to be completely or charge customers for helpful in looking for the right answers their use? Ikea Canada did the latter to the above questions. Hopefully, the and it had a dramatic effect on their Borough’s Green Plan will receive the use. It resulted in a 90% reduction support of the whole community.

The North American Filipino Star 4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse Tel.: 514-485-7861 (5th Floor) near Snowdon Metro E-Mail: [email protected] SUBSCRIPTION Montreal, QC H3W 1X3 Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Name:______Hilda T. Veloso Jerry Estrada Chief Editor & Publisher Community News Lina V. Fernandez Mary Joy Lizarondo Address:______Dr. Victor Gavino Sam Ferry Prof. Isaac Goodine Assistant Editor Sports News News & Tourism 12 issues $25 24 issues $45 Esther Stansfield Nida Verginom Butaran Alvin D. Veloso Bert Abiera Sales Representative Telephone: Residence:______Office: ______Contributors Founder Opinions, comments of writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect that of Enclose a cheque or money order for:$_____ the management of Filcan Publications, Inc. www.filipinostar.org APRIL 2008 The North American Filipino Star 3 New administration of the Filipino Coop appeals to the community It is almost two years ago when be the unemployed, and if you want to Coop now amount to several passed a resolution to issue interest the Filipino Solidarity Cooperative has be working forever without any thousands of dollars plus printing and bearing shares but a stock prospectus been abandoned by its first president advancement, then be an employee. office supplies that I provide frequently. will have to be prepared yet to list the and founder. It is still open in spite of Through the cooperative, each one of In other words, I have been spending conditions, rights and privileges of great financial difficulties. I was just a us becomes like an employer or owner my own money and resources as if the interest-bearing shares. Investments member when I offered my help to of a business. Putting our funds Coop is my own business. Moreover, I must be in the form of cash only, not keep the Coop open. I used all my together to run a business is much constantly have to worry where I will merchandise. Merchandise are financial resources to pay some of the easier than having to put up our own get the next month’s rent and where I accepted as consignments which are bills. Since August 2006, there are no capital to open a business by will get money to buy more subject to a minimum mark up of 20% funds available except the loans from ourselves. Of course, some people merchandise. or more when possible as we need to different people but they have never have succeeded in doing this but as far Now that I have explained to all cover our fixed overhead costs. been enough. I have been scraping as we can see, there is a lot of struggle and opened my heart to the In order to save on salaries, and every single penny to keep the Coop behind sole proprietorships. community, will there be enough wages, we need volunteers to do some open. But I can not continue saving Before I got involved with the sympathy for the cause I have of the tasks required in a retail store. the Coop alone. I need the Filipino Solidarity Cooperative, I did undertaken to make the Coop survive? We need members who can volunteer community to help out. Since the not know anything about cooperatives. Will there be many of our community to do the cashier’s job during the paid election of the new board of directors I was not familiar with any of its leaders who will join me in the employee’s day off, to canvass other during the 3rd general assembly, and advantages but when I started to promotion of the cooperative stores prices, to buy stock when they my assumption of the presidency understand what it can do to help a movement? are on sale, to display, arrange and recently, I have been working hard in community, I became very much During the time of Joe Gaviola, he check merchandise. We need recruiting people to become members, interested in learning more about it recruited around 500 members but handymen or handywomen to help us and talking to everyone who will listen and making sure that it works. I had only one third have paid their full in doing carpentry, checking and fixing that we can make the Coop become a tried to apply for a credit cooperative in membership shares. To date, there electrical outlets, cleaners to keep the profitable enterprise by working 1992 by contacting the Caisse are 631 members, 30 of them I store neat and tidy. My students together and raising the capital Populaire Desjardins near the school I recruited from January to date. There already started cleaning up. They needed to make this a reality. founded as I had wanted to offer my are over 200 members who have paid swept and mopped the floors. during Perhaps, people wonder why I students their own credit facilities. I their full qualifying shares and around the past two weeks. The more have committed so much to the was told that there was not enough 400 members who paid only $10 or volunteers there are, the faster we will survival of the first Filipino cooperative Filipino clients who would be using the $20 each, for a total receivable of be doing the work needed to improve in Canada. It is not out of blind Caisse Populaire services. Our about $30 000. If they pay, they will the Filipino Coop. ambition but it is out of my sincere population then was not as big as it is help us improve our cash flow. Other plans include establishing desire to have a community resource now. If we increase the membership in Besides improving the cash flow, a coffee shop in the Coop where which can be developed to train our our cooperative, we may also be able the Filipino Coop’s store must be members can sit down and meet old future business leaders. It is my goal to look into the possibility of applying properly furnished and organized in and new friends. Info sessions and to prove many people wrong when for a Caisse Populaire franchise. order to make it attractive to seminars will be organized and guest they say that are not able to Although there are subsidies or customers. There are too many speakers and resource people will be be united, and that they never wanted grants available to support businesses freezers occupying valuable floor invited to discuss topics of common to support their fellow citizens’ and cooperatives, it takes a lot of time space. This is because the previous interest to members. To start the ball business. Through the Cooperative, I and effort to prepare a proper business administration bought too many rolling, a fundraising social dance on would like to open their eyes to use our plan and proposal in order to be freezers which are not for commercial June 27, 2008 at 6767 Cote des potential of numbers. If all the 15 000 accepted by the government. use. I just found this out when I Neiges, headed by Salve Desprèz, Filipinos living in Cote des Neiges Considering that I have my own contacted a refrigeration company through the auspices of the Philippine become members of the Coop, we will businesses to run - Gilmore College who did not want to accept these Centre Foundation of Greater Montreal have enough capital to build our and the North American Filipino Star - I freezers for trade-in as they are only for has been set up. You can get your cooperative and turn it into a profitable do not have the time to sit down and residential use. I obtained information tickets at $10 each from the Coop at enterprise in a year or two. If all these submit an application for a subsidy on how much it will cost to get the any time you visit the storre. 15 000 members buy from their own right away. Hence, the fastest way I proper equipment. We received a With the election of a new Cooperative, the volume of business know and the best source of financial quotation for two reconditioned board, I feel quite optimistic that we will they will bring is unbeatable. support is to recruit immediately at equipment for $8000. A new one will be able to work together and find Needless to say, this will be the least 500 members who will pay for cost $9 000 each. We are still trying to solutions to solve the problems of the beginning of our economic prosperity their qualifying shares of $100 each. canvass other suppliers but it seems Filipino Coop. I am not going to give as a community. It will enable us to get This will raise $50 000 capital for the that the price is similar in other stores. up no matter how difficult it may seem the benefits of owning a business. Art Coop. So far, I have recruited around We are hoping to find a store that as I know that there are enough people Cortez, who I spoke to recently, gave 30 people over a period of 30 days but maybe closing down to get a deal but in the community who really care me a very interesting observation. He they are not all fully paid. I have asked so far we have not yet succeeded. about helping others. I hope I am not said that there are only four groups of other members to recruit as well but There are eight (8) freezers (see going to be disappointed. people in the world - the employer, the they still have to show results of their advertisement on page 2) that must be Please send me your employee, the unemployed and the efforts. Meanwhile, there are many disposed off in order to have some feedback and comments by sending self-employed. It is up to each one of outstanding bills to pay - the monthly money to be used to buy the proper an e-mail message to: us to decide to which group we want to installments for loans borrowed to pay equipment we need to store all the [email protected] belong. If you want to be prosperous, back Paluagan members, the rent products that our customers need. Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi be either the employer or the self- which must be paid on time, utilities, The board of directors in the President employed, and if you want to be poor, and salaries. My cash advances to the previous administration had already APRIL 2008 4 The North American Filipino Star Miras, the daughter of Ofelia and countries that are hit the worst, relying From Page 1 FAMAS Eulogio Miras. From Page 1 Rice shortage on imports to supplement local awarded to May Ann Miras, a 19-year Besides the excitement and production. Although the is old high scholl graduate who enthusiasm created by the pageant, labor costs in Europe and North not short of rice today, if trade in rice is showcased her singing and dancing the Philippine Ambassador to Canada, America. halved from 30 million tons a year, the skills. Hon. Jose Brillantes, pointed out that A wide variety of rice is grown in impact on its supply will be great. That The long awaited moment the great attendance durng the Asia, of which basmati rice from India is one reason that supplies of rice are arrived when the judgeds announced pageant was a clear proof that the and Pakistan and pathumthani fragrant very carefully watched in the the finalists: May Ann Miras, Marie people from Montreal can be united. rice from Thailand are top quality. The Philippines. Antonette Carbon, and Katherine He noted that many of Montreal’s latter is a benchmark for rice pricing. The U.N. Food and Agricultural Driving today's food price Organization is optimistic about getting increases are the tripling of oil prices; over the present spot shortages of rice. the conversion of good cultivable land It expects a 7 to 8 million-ton increase in the United States to biofuel in rice production in 2008. Production producing corn; the negative impact of is expected to recover in Africa and climatic changes; and the general Latin America and additional incentives inability of governments to focus on to farmers in Asia may bring results. food grain production both in India and This may help to dampen the current China. This has resulted in all food market volatility. grains, including rice production, The long-term prognosis is not remaining stagnant. Crop failures in a good, however. Until the world particular year exasperate the refocuses on increasing its food grain situation, which occurred this year with output and controlling the population, lower-than-expected crops in Australia supply shortages, followed by food and the United States. riots, are going to be the norm. World trade in rice is about 30 Spiraling inflation in India and million tons. Major exporters are China is mainly due to higher oil and Thailand, Vietnam, the United States, foodstuff prices. When India and China India and Pakistan. The United States calculate inflation based on local does not produce a lot of rice -- about conditions, foodstuff accounts for 8 million tons a year -- but it exports about 30 percent of the inflation half of its output, which gives it a major May Ann Miras as she walks around the hall with the other contestants factors. Oil is the next big factor. status among exporting countries. Rice Inflation at 7 percent in India has put Mariquit. The question asked was not community leaders were in attendance importers are Indonesia, Brazil, Iraq, the political survivability of the present given to them ahead of time. What do which led him to believe that the Red Philippines, Bangladesh and the Arab government in doubt, although it is world. less to blame. Food price increases are Indian rice paddies produced a worldwide phenomenon and India about 140 million tons in two sowing cannot control the world. This is true in seasons in 2007, about 1 percent China also. China is also running 9-10 higher than the previous year. This percent inflation, with food prices produces about 93-94 million tons of leading the price increases. China, like milled rice for human consumption. India, cannot control it, although Last year India exported 3.6 million China's problem is rooted in tons of rice. This year it will be a lot unbalanced development. less. With a rising population, this qA lot of these supply shortages have exportable surplus is shrinking. Only a their root in excessive industrialization month ago India resorted to an export drives both in China and India. Along ban on rice. Bangladesh is the most with the West's excessive love affair affected by this ban. with cars, they are responsible for The candidates in their evening gowns and their escorts India maintains about 20 to 22 today's oil shortage. The tripling of oil million tons of reserve rice stock, which prices was a signal for price increases you think of the new law baning cell Deer Alberta syndrome would most is used to feed the poor at subsidized for other commodities. Now inflation phone use while driving? The judges likely be happening also in Montreal. prices. It is drawn down during a bad has taken hold, it is unlikely to be determined the ranking of the Red Deer syndrome is the production year. Later it is tamed easily. winners.according to the way they Ambassador’s figure of speech that supplemented during a good harvest China and India consciously fell answered the question. refers to the idea of being united and year. into the trap of industrialization, After a brief deliberation, working together as a community.. He Chinese paddy crop output has dependence on foreign direct second runner up was given to urged everyone to support Famas been at about 180 million tons a year, investment, and infrastructure renewal under the leadership of its president, giving about 122 million tons of milled in the last 15 years. They ignored the rice. This production is in balance with very basic necessity of life -- food grain its demand. At times, China imports production. The Chinese believed that rice to relieve spot shortages. A with a mountain of cash at hand they carefully managed public distribution could buy food anywhere. That turned system maintains about 40 to 42 out to be a mirage as food surpluses million tons of reserve, enough to tide have disappeared all over the world, the country over if there is a major and there is nothing they can do with climatic event. If a climatic event results their reserves. in a production drop, however, the Unwittingly, India followed the public distribution system will break Chinese example. Since the mid- down. These climatic changes are 1990s, India concentrated on industry unpredictable. Nobody could predict and let agriculture take a back seat. In that central China would be buried the last five years India's total grain under huge piles of snow last season. production, including rice, has been With its focus on industrialization, stable at about 208 million tons. This China has paid less and less attention year it is projected to be 215 million to agriculture; hence agricultural tons. The latter amount will feed the Ambassador Jose Brillantes in conversation with Claro Bermudez, FAMAS president and other production is not keeping pace with nation and replenish the reserves. This Famas officers and members. demand. In addition pollution and acid may be good for today but the future is Katherine Mariquit, first runner up to Claro Bermudez. rain are playing havoc with agriculture. bleak. To feed the rising population, a 4 Marie Antonette Carbon, and the It was past one o’clock in the China and India are vulnerable to percent sustained growth in agriculture coveted title of Bb. Pilipinas of morning when the pageant ended but a drop in rice production, but they have is needed. Montreal was awarded to May Ann there was still a big crowd around. large reserves. It is the rice importing Just as easily as they party,

www.filipinostar.org APRIL 2008 The North American Filipino Star 5 Top regional entries for Aliwan Festival competition million pesos. Banking on local (see photos on page 12 - Star Photo Gallery) folklore and indigenous traditions are floats from all regions of the country, Filipinos find an excuse to dance present the wild revelry of the Boling- the work cycle. Sultan Kudarat including NCR. – for leisure or entertainment. . .as a Boling Festival, the Bicol region displays its opulent coronation rites in Float designs will make use of local manifestation of worship. . .or as a showcases religious fervour in the the Kang’Gelal, while Parang presents textiles, decorative mats, and basketry social valve for relationships. For this Penafrancia Voyadores and Pilgrims its Buklod Festival as a show of unity in vibrant colours – all bearing distinct year’s Aliwan Fiesta – the annual Festival of Naga City. and peaceful coexistence among regional imprints of master weavers. cultural extravaganza organized by Townsfolk in San Carlos City, Muslims and Christians. Agricultural produce and flowers also Broadcasting Company and Negros Occidental blend dance and From the young township of find their use as accessories and raw the Cultural Center of the Philippines in drama in presenting the legend of Mamasapano, comes material for the floats. cooperation with the cities of Manila Princess Nabingka in the Pinta Flores the eternal story of of ill-fated love and Okkil, originally from the middle-eastern and – dance in its myriad forms festival. , in turn, fields two a community’s quest for peace in the Islamic art of the Umayyad dynasty in once more takes centrestage, as entries – the Sa-ad Festival of Leganes, Kalilintad festival. And finally, from the eighth century, lends a whole interpreted in the festival context by which is anchored on the miraculous Lamitan, Basilan is the Lami-Lamihan, repertory of plant-shaped folk motif to contingents from various regions all deeds of St Vincent Ferrer, and the a joyous festivity showcasing the skill carved, woven and brass-cast pieces over the country. As early as January, highly acclaimed Dinagyang Festival, of their master weavers as the Yakan common to the Maranao, Tausug, the roster of entries had reached the which features the aboriginal tribes’ chieftains gather to preserve and Samal, and Badjao. The skill and maximum number set by the offering to the Infant Jesus. propagate their cultural heritage. creativity of Mindanao natives which organizers – solid proof of how keenly This worship of the Santo Nino, Supported by Smart Buddy, also found fruition in their seafaring and anticipated the festival is. which prevails in many parts of the Tanduay, Unilab, Sulpicio Lines, and boatbuilding skills, are also highlighted. will be represented country, likewise finds fruition in the Dunkin’ Donuts, Aliwan Fiesta is now Ilokano damili pottery, with its solid role by the Pakalog Festival of Pasig City, breathtaking showcase of Midsayap, on its sixth year, and will be held on in the indigenous lifestyles celebrated anchored on the native delicacy called Cotabato’s Halad Festival, along with May 1-3, with the grand culminating during festivals, are also dominant the “bulig,” and Navotas’ Pangisdaan Cebu’s two-part pitch of the Sinulog, parade traversing fixtures, in the same way that Bulacan’s which celebrates the city’s basic as interpreted by defending champion from to the Aliw folk art, Singkaban, gives rise to the industry and the different phases of its Lumad Basakanon, and the contingent Theater at the CCP Complex. For decorative arches whittled from special livelihood development program. from the municipality of Carmen. enquiries, call 832-6125 or email wood. From the Cordillera Administrative Not to be outdone, Leyte also [email protected] Collectively, the float parade of Aliwan Region, City showcases its brings forward a double-header. The Fiesta, supported by Smart Buddy, myriad blooms for which Panagbenga Alikaraw festival of Hilongos Aliwan Fiesta Showcasing Tanduay, Unilab, Sulpicio Lines, and has become immensely popular, while showcases its equally fervent religious Dunkin’ Donuts, which will be held on highlighting the city’s feverish devotion manifested by tribesmen who Filipino Craftmanship and May 3, traversing Roxas Boulevard from preparations for its forthcoming also learned to co-exist with their design Quirino Grandstand to at centennial celebrations. Mountain environment, while the town of Abuyog Fiestas provide excellent the CCP Complex, will once more emit Province, in turn, will present the Lang- bring life to the mystical bees of the opportunities to celebrate Filipino a blaze of kaleidoscopic colour as the ay festival of Bontoc, which magical fairy Opayda in the Buyogan craftsmanship and ingenuity. So when participating festivals reflect their own emphasizes the breakdown of barriers festival. the nation’s most popular festivals community spirit. as indigenous practice merges with Ecological concerns also converge in one single event, expect Comprising the judging panel modern-day traditions in unifying the comprise the theme of Kabasalan, pre-eminent craftsmen in the different are renowned floral architect Rachy entire community. Zamboanga Sibugay’s Bakhawan regions to bring out their most Cuna; the Director of the Metropolitan Laoag City’s Pamulinawen Festival, which draws public attention innovative ideas. Museum of Manila and Vice Chairman Festival pays tribute to the hard- to the role of mangroves in protecting For the sixth consecutive year, entries to of the NCCA’s Committee on working Ilokano in the context of the community’s marine resources. the float competition of the Aliwan Monuments and Sites - Eric Zerrudo; “Panagdaklis” or fishing as livelihood. The Shariff Kabunsuan festival of Fiesta, organized by Manila the president of the Art Association of Angadanan Isabela, in turn, will feature Cotabato City is a grandiose portrayal Broadcasting Company and the the Philippines Raul Isidro; National its Gakit festival. of how the city was introduced to the Cultural Center of the Philippines, in Museum Director Dr. Corazon Alvina; Once more showcasing the Islamic faith. From the province cooperation with the cities of Manila and the ’s Senior artisans of Hagonoy and the bearing the shariff’s name, the town of and Pasay, will bring out the ingenuity Curator and Head of Conservation Bulakeno’s mien for lyricism in its art Upi presents the Meguyaya Festival of Filipino artisans and designers in the Kenneth Esguerra. forms is the Desposorio Festival. As which highlights their ritual traditions in quest to earn the grand prize of half a residents of Catanauan, Quezon a grand celebration prior to beginning Let’s go to the tulips festival on Sunday, May 18, 2008 (Victoria Day weekend) Organized by Gilmore International College Departure time: 6:30 P.M. Return to Montreal: 7:00 P.M. Meeting place: Plamondon Metro (Van Horne exit) Itinerary: Parliament Building visit, Museum of Civilization, Boat Festival on Dows Lake Reserve your tickets Tel.: 514-485-7861 Bring your picnic bssket.

www.filipinostar.org APRIL 2008 6 The North American Filipino Star TOURISM GUIMARAS Beach, sun and lots of mangos!

Guimaras is an island province spiritual value in Guimaras. located mid-way between the islands Guimaras is noted for its great of Panay and Negros. Bordered by number of pilgrimage sites. The town in the north, Bacolod in the of Jordan is known for its Holy Week east, Panay in the west and Panay Sea presentation called Ang Pagtaltal sa in the south. Guimaras, a re-enactment of the The province is largely agricultural Passion of Christ. Its climax is a one- with principal crops palay, coconut and kilometer procession of flagellants and mangoes. Guimaras’ golden carabao devotees in biblical attire that ends in mango is renowned worldwide for its the Bala-an Bukid Shrine (Holy sweetness and quality, which makes it Mountain Shrine), a huge white cross the most important commercial crop in atop a hill. In Catiliran Cave in Nueva the province. Valencia, the people perform a Good Guimaras is also the location of the Friday ritual known as the Pang-alap, much-admired Roca Encantada where devotees crawl throughout a (Enchanted Rock), summer house of long passage of the cave while uttering the distinguished Lopez family of Iloilo. prayers in Latin, in the belief that they The house is perched on a promontory shall acquire supernatural powers, overlooking Guimaras Strait. Across particularly for use against evil spirits. the promontory is a picturesque group Also note ear the capital town of of coral islets called Siete Pecados Jordan is a Trappist Monastery, the (Isles of the Seven Sins), a curious only one in the Philippines Macopo Falls, Balcon Falls, Ambacan Falls, and Sadsad Falls are the most famous counterpoint to the attractions of The island-province also has a waterfalls on Guimaras. Ask a local or a tourguide to bring you to them. These crystal clear, cold, refreshing falls are fun to swim underneath

The famed Roca Encantada (Enchanted Rock), summer house of the distinguished Lopez Hidden Paradise? A beach resort in Guimaras, iloilo, as seen from the other side of the family of Iloilo. island.

As you would expect, accomodations are top class in Guimaras, with some offering spectacular views of the countryside, such as here at at inland resort. Alubihod Beach in Guimaras is a favorite destination , and a good alternative to Boracay www.filipinostar.org APRIL 2008 The North American Filipino Star 7 wealth of white sand beaches and Nueva Valencia in the island of local version of Spain’s green salad. very smooth peel, all of which small coral islands. There are good Guimaras. Situated just beside Puerto On the other hand, the ripe mangoes in contribute to its exotic taste and make spots for spear fishing, scuba diving del Mar which is ran by John B. Lacson Guimaras are considered as the best it a prized fruit the world over. The and snorkeling that will sure delight Colleges Foundation (a local maritime fine-tasting mangoes in the world. It uniqueness of its taste is largely due to any water-sport enthusiast. The best college), Villa Igang sports dozens of has a unique sweetness that one can the island’s climate and nutrient-rich beaches are at Alubihod, Tatlong Pulo, cottages for local and foreign tourists never taste anywhere else. There’s no soil. Baras and Inampulungan. The interior to rent for long vacations. need to use any kind of sweetener if Guimaras can be reached by of the island is ideal for hiking and The great thing about this resort is you wanted to have a mango shake. ferryboats, pump boats, and other sea- mountain biking. that the beach front is sorrounded by The guimaras mango posesses a going vessels via Iloilo Strait from Iloilo Other than the beautiful beaches, mountains extending into the sea, so unique sweetness, firm flesh, sweet- and via Guimaras Strait from Negros. a one should also think of visiting one or the northern winds are blocked off and smelling aroma, thin seeds as well as a more of the dozen or so mango farms. the shore doesn’t get pounded by There are more than 50,000 mango huge waves. Huts or cottages can be trees on the island and a tour to any of rented for P500 per day (with two these farms is a unique experience on beds) or go for the aircon ones which its own. The only reason anyone would is P900 per day. You’d be able to get want to pass up the chance to see the discounts if you rent them on a weekly mango plantations is perhaps a dislike or monthly basis. Food is cheap as well for the mango. — you can ask the local resto to cook There are three major farms on you any fish, chicken or pork viand Guimaras which are some of the which could cost from P45 for a largest in the Philippines, they include chicken inasal or P75 for a kilo of Southern Orchard in Jordan, Oro grilled fish. Verde and Guimaras Tree Farm in Alubihod Beach, where the sand Buenavista. In general they are open is almost as white as that of Boracay’s for public visit and you would be but less fine and a little off-white. It has welcome to visit any of them with open changed some over the years, and is arms even though they don't often now sub-divided into several great have too many visitors. resorts, the bigger one would be Raymen Beach Resort followed by Great resorts worth mentioning: Rico Beach Resort, both offer great accommodations. Valle Verde is one of the few nature resorts found in the southern More on the Mangoes of Guimaras: part of Guimaras. Situated in one of the April is the season for mangoes, lots of mangos! Guimaras Island is quite famous for its dense forests of Ravina in the Mangifera indica, or simply known sweet mangos. The province celebrates it's Manggahan Festival in April, which is harvest municipality of Sibunag (used to be as mango, is considered to be the time for this delicious fruit. part of Nueva Valencia), Valle Verde is national fruit of the Philippines. just one quiet place you can stay to Mangoes in Guimaras can be relax, breathe some fresh air and eaten ripe or unripe. Unripe Carabao witness one of the best sunsets on the mangoes can be a dessert or a snack. island. Some Filipinos slice these unripe Villa Igang is one of the many Carabao mangoes into smaller pieces smaller and secluded resorts up in the and they mixed it with chopped onions northern part of the municipality of and tomatoes. They call it Ensalada – a

Pumpboats or Paraw boats, the prefered local mode of islan-hopping, line the beaches at the popular Raymen’s Beach Resort www.filipinostar.org APRIL 2008 8 The North American Filipino Star Jamby, at 50, reaches Madrigal crossroads Suspects in Comelec April 21, 2008 another Doña Chito counsel, Perry Pe, requests for an interview, would only slays now known Senator Ana Consuelo “Jamby” a fellow partner of Gonzalez-Montinola volunteer that Doña Chito, a corporate April 15, 2008 Madrigal, who is turning 50 on in the Romulo Mabanta law firm. lawyer herself, had already conducted The Manila Police District (MPD) on Saturday, has reached a crossroads of According to sources close to the “judicious estate planning” even Monday disclosed the identities of the sort that could expose the billionaire Madrigals, the senator’s inquiry not before her health declined in 2006, suspects behind the slaying of the two clan into a public feud over the only raised doubts on the valuation of when the Makati Regional Trial Court former heads of the Commission on fabulous estate left by her childless the Doña Chito’s estate, a modest P26 probated her last will and testament. Elections Law Department. aunt, Consuelo “Chito” Madrigal- million, but also the unexplained Still, despite Jamby’s grumbling, In a press conference, MPD Director Collantes. disappearance of the estimated $400 Doña Chito advanced her niece’s Chief Supt. Roberto Rosales identified Reporters had already been million to $800 million private banking share of the Madrigal fortune. Senator the suspects in the slaying of Lawyers alerted by the senator’s staff that account that her aunt had supposedly Madrigal sent word that the P100- Alioden Dalaig and Wynne Asdala as Madrigal would either issue a maintained at Citibank New York. million figure quoted in an earlier story Basser Ampatuan, a Moro National Liberation Front integree-turned statement or hold a press conference, was “too small” when Doña Chito policeman, and a certain “Irving,” a perhaps as early as today, to clarify her underwrote Jamby’s senatorial former policeman. In both cases, lawyer’s letter questioning the validity campaign in 2004. Ampatuan was pinpointed as the of the probate for the last will and In addition to tracing her aunt’s gunman while Irving was one of those testament of the late billionairess, after overseas bank account, Senator who plotted the execution of slay plans. whom the senator was named. Madrigal, according to the Madrigal Rosales said the identification of the According to sources close to the chatter, was also specifically interested two resulted from the information family, Jamby is supported by her in the rarely used Agusta Westland gathered from three unnamed witnesses. younger sister Tana in the incipient Power helicopter that Doña Chito left “The three witnesses’ [description] legal assault, an action that could pit behind. matched Ampatuan’s description,” he the two against their eldest sister, Ma. The eight-seater executive added. Susana “Chu Chu” Madrigal-Eduque, helicopter was left in the name of a “The suspects will be facing two who was bequeathed a generous 40 family corporation, along with Doña separate murder charges that will be filed percent of Doña Chito’s undetermined Chito’s house in North Forbes, as well this afternoon,” Rosales said. residuary estate. as various other commercial properties Rosales said both killings were Doña Chito, 87, passed away on and houses not detailed in the will. politically-motivated, and involved March 24, leaving her husband, Ironically, the Madrigal matriarch election-related cases in Shariff Marcos-era Foreign Minister Manuel had left specific instructions in her will Kabunsuan. “This is related to the governorhsip in Collantes, as the lone compulsory heir, that she would not brook any Shariff Kabunsuan. We are now on-track inheriting a house in Forbes and a one- inheritance feud about her undisclosed of that angle and will be investigating it hectare property in Ayala Alabang. fortune even in her after-life. further,” Rosales said. Another 40 percent was “I do not wish any conflict between Dalaig was shot on November 10, bequeathed to a young grandson, with my beneficiaries involving my estate 2007 while on his way out of Hyatt Hotel the balance of 20 percent given to after my death,” Doña Chito said. Casino in Ermita, Manila. He was the another niece, lawyer Gizela M. “Anyone of the beneficiaries, who head of the poll body’s legal department Gonzalez-Montinola, wife of Bank of should contest or question the acts or at the time that he was shot. the Philippine Islands president Aurelio decisions of my executor/trustee in any Asdala became the poll body’s legal Montinola III. Madrigal sisters Tana, Chu Chu, Jamby proceedings, whether judicial or department officer-in-charge after Dalaig The banker was named by Doña before a portrait of their late mother. otherwise, shall be disqualified to be a was killed. He was shot on March 24, Chito as one of the two estate trustees beneficiary of my residuary estate.” a 2008 in , Manila. a and executors of her will, along with Pe, who declined repeated Robinsons to build 16 malls in 5 years RESTAURANT LA MAISON NEW KUM MON April 19, 2008 Megamall in Mandaluyong City. Robinsons Land Corp. is Go said several of the company’s 6565 Cote desk Neiges, 5047 Henri Bourassa Est spending P12 billion to put up 16 new malls would rise up in the Montréal, QC H1G 2S1 Montreal, QC (Corner Appleton) malls over the next five years—or an provinces including Mindanao, and Tel.: (514) 322-3133, 322-3130 average of three malls a year—in a bid some would cater for business Bean Curd Seafood Soup Fish Maw Seafood Soup to catch up with market leader SM process outsourcing firms. 1/2 Crispy Chicken Baked Lobster with Ginger Prime Holdings Inc., its top official He said the company also had six Salt and Pepper Pork Loin Seafood with Chinese said yesterday. housing projects, a high-rise Stuffed Bean Curd with Broccoli The listed property unit of JG condominium, and a hotel in Tagaytay Shrimps Saltand Pepper Cuttle Fish Summit Holdings would also open City in the pipeline—including two Sauted Seasonal Vegetables Fried Sea Bass Fish four malls this year—one each in new office buildings in Mandaluyong Steamed Rice Steamed Rice Cabanatuan City in Nueva Ecija, City and in Ortigas Center. $37.95 $58.95 Pulilan in Bulacan, and in Ermita and The company would also manage 4 Persons 4 Persons Paco both in Manila—company a 120-room boutique hotel in Tagaytay president Frederick Go told reporters City, he said. Bean Curd Soup Fish maw seafood soup following Robinsons Land’s Go said earlier that Robinsons 1/2 Crispy Chicken 2 Baked Lobsters with Ginger stockholders’ meeting. Land was setting aside P10 billion for Seafood with Eggplant Shrimp Cake with Chinese The four new malls would bring capital expenditures this year against in Hot Pot the company’s malls to 24 and their P7 billion last year. Broccoli Stuffed Bean Curd with total gross floor area to 1.4 million The company now counts 20 Sweet and Sour Pork Shrimp square meters this year from 1.3 shopping centers, 23 residential Seafood with Bean Curd in Seafood with Chinese broccoli million last year, Go said. condominiums, five office buildings, Hot Pot Fried Sea Bass Fish By comparison, the Sy family had 27 housing and land developments Salt and Pepper Squid House Fried Rice 30 SM malls in 2007 and is poised to and three hotels. Fried Sea Bass Fish Special Fried Noodles open three more and to expand two Its net income rose 48 percent to Steamed Rice $125.95 others this year, which would bring the P1.82 billion last year after revenue $63.95 total gross floor area of its malls to 4.1 increased 24 percent to P5.96 billion. 6 Persons 10 Persons million square meters. Revenue from its high-rise The SM group is opening SM buildings jumped 60 percent to P2.3 FREE DELIVERY 514-733-6029 Supercenter in Rosales in billion. a Minimum order of $10 Pangasinan, SM City in Baliuag in Delivery hours: 514-733-1067 Bulacan, and SM City in Marikina City. 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. It is also expanding SM City in 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. For party menu, call Kenny Fairview, Quezon City, and SM www.filipinostar.org APRIL 2008 The North American Filipino Star 9 Pinay bags $10,000 in McDonald’s singing tilt Boracay Mansion’s asking price: P143 million April 22, 2008 out as first-runner up. She got a April 18, 208 estate taxes are settled. Now she has some big things to standing ovation and $10,000. The Quezon City property that Quezon City Treasurer Victor show that a small country like hers Yu, 22, was among 3,600 the government seized as part of Endriga says St. Peter Holdings can produce singing sensations faster contestants from McDonald’s stores former President Joseph Estrada’s Corp., supposedly owned by than the world can say, “To go.” in 118 countries. A worship leader assets could be sold for a minimum businessman Jose Yulo, owes the Margaret Yu of Davao sang who sings in a church choir in Davao, P142.918 million, according to city P1.7 million in back taxes, and she said she dedicated her winning government auditors. that it is among the properties listed song to God. The 7,400-square-meter as delinquent since 2000. Natercia Pintor of Portugal won property, called Boracay Mansion He says the city government put the grand prize. because it had a swimming pool the mansion under auction in 2005, The judges, evidently, were with sand from the famous resort and that it became the property’s impressed with what they had heard, island in Aklan, is on 100 11th Street owner after no one submitted a bid. said juror and multi-platinum artist Ne- in Quezon City’s posh New Manila The owner could still redeem the Yo. “I was blown away by the talent. district. property by paying P1.292,842 in They [contestants] brought the house The anti-graft court seized it after down. It was really difficult to choose back taxes and P440,741.72 in convicting Estrada of plunder in a a winner. I applaud McDonald’s for penalties, he says. doing this.” September, but Estrada has always Two of the other judges were Jody denied ownership of the property, Gerson, co-president of Sony/ATV which he was said to have bought Music Publishing, and Ken Hertz, LLP for his common-law wife and former senior partner. actress Laarni Enriquez. Two other Filipinos made it to the Now a legal tussle over the semifinals—Canada-based Candido property between the Revilles, who eventually placed third, Sandiganbayan and the Quezon and Yu’s best friend, Paulina Susan City government has raised Bacarat, also from Davao. questions on who really owns it. The contest is the biggest singing The Sandiganbayan says the competition of its kind for 1.6 million property was forfeited in favor of the The so-called “Boracay Mansion,” once McDonald’s employees from around national government following described as the palatial residence of a the globe and from more than 30,000 mistress of ousted president Joseph Runner up singer Margaret Yu, 22, of Davao. Estrada’s conviction. The Quezon “This is a great priviledge and honor to me”, restaurants in over 100 countries. City government claims the mansion Estrada, which figured in Estrada’s trial she said. “My family helped me, especially in Yu and Bacarat will be the became its property after its and eventual conviction for plunder, is a prayers. I really thank and praise God for the international fast-food chain’s singing registered owner, St. Peter’s shadow of what it was. It is abandoned, opprtunity and blessings He has given me. ” dilapidated, and now nobody even seems ambassadors. They will help raise Holdings Corp., failed to pay taxes to want it. Whitney Houston’s “I Have Nothing” funds for McDonald’s Charities, which on it for five years. at the recent “Voice of McDonald’s looks after poor children in the Quezon City says the property 2008” in Orlando, Florida, and came Philippines. a may not be sold until its unpaid real Penalties urged over video clip April 19, 2008 cases against the four personnel, with inch-long spray canister from the male prompted the cheers, but added they A HOSPITAL recommended penalties ranging from reprimands to patient’s rectum, someone shouts, were “excessive and inappropriate and penalties Friday, including possible dismissals for violating a code of “Baby out!” amid loud cheers. some acts were already in violation of dismissal, for three doctors and a conduct and ethical standards. The doctor then removes the some hospital policies,” the hospital nurse who conducted a rowdy Medical center spokesman canister cap and sprays the contents said in a statement. operation on a patient that was Emmanuel Gines said the toward a crowd of nurses and doctors Gines said a fourth doctor and videotaped and posted on YouTube. government-run hospital could only viewing the procedure. three other nurses were “sternly The unidentified doctors and recommend penalties to the Health The 39-year-old patient, who warned,” and a clinical instructor who nurses from Cebu have been Department and may not take action remains unidentified, plans next week supervised a group of nursing condemned by medical associations. on its own. to file a complaint seeking the students from a local school who Health Secretary Francisco Duque The nearly three-minute video of a revocation of the licenses of those observed the operation was banned III has ordered an investigation. noisy operating room shows doctors responsible and a civil suit for from the hospital. The Vicente Sotto Memorial and nurses laughing, giggling and damages, his lawyer, Guiller Ceniza, He said a nursing student Medical Center in Cebu, where the cheering. At one point, a hand appears said. suspected of uploading the video to operation to remove an object from the with a cell phone camera taking a A hospital committee that looked YouTube would be dealt with by the patient’s rectum took place Jan. 3, close-up picture of the surgery. into the incident reported that the school. recommended filing administrative As a doctor gingerly pulls out a six- successful operation might have Ceniza said his client was Taxi operators seek P40 flagdown April 17, 2008 filing [the petition] on behalf of said. 12-peso daily wage hike for minimum- Taxi operators petitioned the everyone—including our members in “On the other hand, the existing wage workers in August 2007.” government yesterday for a 10-peso the provinces,” said Suntay who is fare rate in air-con buses is P1.45. We Militant labor unions are pushing increase in their 30-peso flagdown also a Quezon City councilor. want to raise it to P1.90.” for a 125-peso increase in the rate, citing surging fuel prices, while He said his group had wanted to Meanwhile, the House committee minimum wage, but Gunigundo said provincial bus operators asked for a file its petition as early as March, but on labor yesterday recommended to that might not be possible because similar increase in fares. Thompson Lantion, chairman of the the wage boards a 36-peso increase in employers were expected to resist it. “We are only requesting a hike in Land Transportation Franchising and the daily wage of private workers. Crispin Beltran, a congressman the flagdown rate and not in the per- Regulatory Board, requested them to Valenzuela Rep. Magtanggol representing the leftist party-list group succeeding-kilometer rate because we defer it. Gunigundo, chairman of the Anakpawis, said granting wage don’t want commuters to be affected Homer Mercado, president of the committee, said he was also pushing increases to the 33.7-million labor that much,” said Jesus Suntay, Provincial Bus Operators Association the early passage of a bill seeking to force was urgent. president of the Philippine National of the Philippines, said they were exempt all minimum-wage workers “Giving limitation to the granting of Taxi Operators’ Association. asking a 30-centavo increase per from paying tax. additional wages only to 5 million “We have agreed that would kilometer for all ordinary buses and a “I think a 36-peso daily wage hike minimum-wage earners, or 15 percent minimize the effect on commuters.” 45-centavo increase per kilometer for is enough for workers in Metro of the total labor force, is discordant to Taxis now charge P30 for the air-conditioned buses. Manila,” Gunigundo said. the just demand of all workers for an flagdown and P2.50 for every “The existing per-kilometer rate for “The amount represents 10 across-the-board wage increase,” he succeeding kilometer. ordinary provincial buses is P1.30. We percent of the 362-peso minimum said. a “This will be nationwide. We are want to raise it to P1.60,” Mercado wage in the region that includes the www.filipinostar.org APRIL 2008 10 The North American Filipino Star ang makakatapat namin, e," reaksiyon Ang sagot sa akin, wala raw. ni Marian. "Trabaho lang ang iniisip ko. "Pero kung sakaling may una ngang FILIPINO STAR Saka alam ko naman na hindi mo mapi- na-offer-an ng Dyesebel at tapos please ang lahat ng tao. Sadyang may ibinigay sa akin, tatanggapin ko pa rin mga maka-Kapuso at may maka-kabila. nang maluwag. Dyesebel ito, bakit ko Kung mas magiging masaya ang mga naman tatanggihan?" S H O W B I Z G O S S I P Kapuso dahil sa show namin, okay na Pinaalala naming noong yun." kalagitnaan pa lang ng Marimar, when Isa pang intriga, bali-balita noon na we asked her kung ano ang gusto Marian Rivera keeps her promise kay Anne Curtis unang in-offer ang niyang maging next project, ang Dyesebel ngunit hindi lang ito natuloy lumilipad (Darna) or ang lumalangoy to go topless in "Dyesebel" dahil hindi nakalipat si Anne sa GMA-7. (Dyesebel), noon pa lang, Dyesebel na Ano ang masasabi niya rito? ang pinili niya. Truly the biggest female star of cycling shorts lang daw para mas "Wala akong narinig," sabi ni "Ah talaga? Kung gayon, pinagpala GMA-7 today, isang napaka- magaaan dahil as is, napakabigat na ng Marian. "Alam n'yo, nang in-offer sa akin pa rin ako ni Lord," sabi ni Marian. pabulosang presscon ang ibinigay ng costume niya. ang Dyesebel, may tinanungan din ako a Kapuso network for Marian Rivera's "Gumagaan lang ito kapag nasa kung na offer na ba ito sa ibang artista. follow-up project after the phenomenal tubig na. Pero kapag nasa lupa ako, Marimar, ang Dyesebel. Done at the ang bigat nito. Naaawa nga ako sa mga Angelica Jones lost P2-M worth of poolside of Sofitel Philippines Hotel last nagbubuhat sa akin kasi alam ko ang night, April 21, the press launch bigat ko dahil sa costume ko," aniya. jewelry in fire included mermaids and mermen Sabi rin ni Direk Joyce Bernal, mas residential unit at Highway Hills close ang character niyang Dyesebel sa swimming in the big pool of the hotel Commercial Apartelle in Sierra Madre, Mandaluyong City. The fire reached fifth alarm before seven in the morning. Initial investigation said the fire started at the third floor in the kitchen area of the actress' unit and that the blaze was caused by a defective switch. Aside from Jones' room the fire also damaged another unit of the apartelle. According to Jones she was caught by surprise as she woke up seeing her unit was already covered with smoke and fire. She recalled that she just shouted "fire!" and even thought of saving her things before she decided to run downstairs. The actress said that she lost her mobile phone, money and other Angelica Jones personal items but members of Bureau of Fire were able to save some of her Sexy actress Angelica Jones lost money and belongings after fire out was almost P2-million worth of jewelry and declared. a other belongings in a fire that gutted her Sarah to duet with member of boy band In L.A. Sarah Geronimo is tireless. Not DVD. Her fourth album, "Taking Flight," content to rest on her laurels, she has also topped the music charts. Almost added several more awards to her 500,000 have viewed her music video, ever-growing collection. The Viva "How Could You Say You Love Me," on singing star emerged top winner in this YouTube. Marian Rivera year’s MYX Music Awards. She copped the Favorite Song award for before the presscon started and the tunay na Marian Rivera kesa kay the Medwin Marfil composition "Ikaw," performance of the Philippine Marimar. Sumang-ayon naman dito ang one of the cuts in her all-original synchronized swimming team doing young actress. Filipino album, "Taking Flight." Sarah their water acrobatics while the theme "Kasi ang character ni Dyesebel, was also named Favorite Artist of the song is being sung by Julie Ann of kalog. Ganoon din ako, masayahin Year, Favorite Female Artist of the Year Sugarpop. akong tao," paghahambing niya. and MYX Celebrity VJ of the Year. On Si Marian ang naging star of the Wala ring expectation si Marian sa top of that, Sarah was chosen Best night sa kanyang suot na red gown. Dyesebel kung malalampasan ba nito Female Performer in the recently- Halos lahat ay tinanong sa kanya ng ang nagawang phenomenon ng concluded Guillermo Mendoza kanyang first solo soap na Marimar. entertainment press, which she all Awards. Martin Nievera was Best Male answered impressively. "Ayokong mag-expect. Ang sa Performer. amin, basta mas mapaganda namin ito, Unfortunately, Sarah was not "Topless kung topless." mas magustuhan ng tao, at mas around to personally receive her maging masaya sila sa Dyesebel, okay harvest of awards. She is now in Ang unang tanong, kapansin- na ako." Canada, where she is on a concert pansin sa ilang eksena na lumalangoy tour with the old gang, Rachelle Ann siya bilang Dyesebel na dangerously Intriguing Dyesebel risqué, kung saan palaging parang Go, Mark Bautista and Christian muntik-muntikan nang makita ang Inintriga rin namin si Marian. Sa Bautista. She had just performed in kaniyang dibdib. Tinotoo niya kasi ang presscon kasi ng Maligno ni Claudine Winnipeg where fans packed the promise niyang "topless kung topless" Barretto last week sa ABS-CBN, isa sa musical hall. Thanks to new playing the most famous Filipino mga co-stars nitong si DJ Durano ang technology however, the enterprising Sarah Geronimo mermaid. nagsabi na "makakalimutan n'yo ang guys in MYX USA were able to shoot "Let's just say well protected ako. babaeng lumalangoy-langoy" habang Sarah giving her thank you speech. Reports have it that Sarah will stay Hindi naman siguro ako makikitaan dito ipinu-promote ang bagong horror There is no question that the behind in Los Angeles after the kasi wholesome ang show namin na series ng ABS-CBN, na incidentally ay young superstar deserves the awards. "Champions" tour to record a duet with puwede ring panoorin ng bata," magpi-premiere din sa April 28 gaya ng She is one of a few artists who can a cute member of one of the biggest paliwanag niya. Dyesebel. Obviously, ang Dyesebel nga draw a big crowd at the Araneta boy bands in pop music history. The Asked kung ano ang suot niya ang tinutukoy ni DJ. Coliseum. Her last concert, "Sarah song will be included in her new underneath the mermaid costume, "Ay, hindi ko pa nga alam kung ano Geronimo in Motion," rocked the Big album for release in July, her birth Dome and has been preserved on month. a www.filipinostar.org APRIL 2008 The North American Filipino Star 11 recapture the magical moment during Ramiele’s busy life after ‘Idol’ that first week. Kind of. Also, I was just terrified to be She offered several theories on what onstage. But now that I’m going on tour went wrong in her AI journey, and (with the other Top Ten finalists), I have discussed the possibility of coming back to go up on a lot of stages. to the Philippines and pursuing a recording career à la Jasmine Trias. Q: t the start, you said that you held the record for changing your song the Q: You’ve probably heard of Jasmine most number of times, and that your Trias’ success in the Philippines after family kept giving you song choices. AI. Have you considered following in Was that the case up till towards the her footsteps? end of your stint on the show?

Well, I definitely want to go back home No, they eventually stopped. I was like: … (simply) because it’s home. C’mon, let me be. [Towards the end] I was the one who picked the songs, but I I also want to see what I can do over was trying to tune out everyone so I there. I’m pretty sure I’ve learned some wouldn’t get stressed and psyched out. things over here. Jasmine has opened doors for us and I’m really grateful to her Q: Do you feel that Simon, who for being the first Filipino [who did well] initially said no to you, eventually on AI and for going beyond the show warmed up? Do you think you proved and achieving big things. him wrong?

Q: Why did you decide to do Heart’s Oh, he likes me. I know he does. He’s “Alone,” which Carrie Underwood actually a nice guy. made her own in Season 4? Were you aware of the risk involved? Backstage, on the night I got voted off, he approached me and said: “Okay, cry Oh, yes. I watched Carrie’s on my shoulder.” He kept reassuring me performance. But I was just trying to that (the only reason I got kicked out) bring back that first week [when I did the was because of my song choice. Dusty song]. That was my goal. So if it didn’t work, then it didn’t work. I know that sometimes he overdoes it because it’s on TV, but I really believe in Q: After that first week when you my heart that he just wants us to be came out strong, it seems something better. happened. Was it nerves? Q: What’s the biggest lesson you’ve Honestly, I didn’t realize that the first learned on AI? week was such a big deal until people kept telling me about it. I learned to be more humble. To be more Like some lucky castoffs before her, A YouTube clip shows Ellen praising appreciative. To be more courteous and Filipino-American Ramiele Malubay is the petite Pinay for her “fantastic I think I let it go to my head. So I was acknowledge every single person who busier than ever—that is, even after voice”—particularly in her farewell always trying to be better than I was in works on the show because they all help being voted off the reality talent search performance last week. the first week. Thing is, when you over- you become better. I learned so much “American Idol” last week. On “Ellen,” Malubay sang her AI think things, you end up not knowing from the band, the mentor (Dolly Parton) A member of her fans’ club sent signature song, Dusty Springfield’s “You how to handle yourself and the song and the vocal coaches. Inquirer Entertainment an e-mail Don’t Have to Say You Love Me,” which gets out of hand. You’re not in control detailing Malubay’s TV appearances on earned raves from judges Randy anymore. Q: What advice would you give to several popular US shows, including Jackson, Paula Abdul and Simon Cowell other young people who hope to join “Live With Regis and Kelly” and “Ellen” in the show’s first week. People were telling me that my AI? (Monday), and “The Morning Show with Last Friday, she granted a phone confidence dropped. I shouldn’t have Mike and Juliet” (Tuesday). interview with US journalists and the listened or second-guessed myself. I Just be yourself and enjoy every single Malubay is the latest Pinoy Inquirer. should have just gone with my gut feel. minute. Don’t think too far ahead performer to be featured on comic Ellen Throughout the phoner, arranged by because that will make you miss the fun DeGeneres’ gabfest, following Charice Star World (which airs the show in Asia), Q: You felt the pressure of that first stuff. When I look back, I’m glad that I she candidly admitted her struggle to Pempengco and Arnel Pineda. performance each week? took everything in. I have no regrets. a Sam Milby still courting Anne Jennylyn wants Mercado for her Curtis baby’s surname concert in last Valentine’s wears sexy outfits like what she wore in Day, she reportedly went to the new Showbiz Central last Sunday. house of Sam in Pasig City. A dinner According to Jen, she really hoped date was waiting for them at the rooftop that she will not get really fat. of Sam’s new house; with red roses, red “Sana talaga huwag na ‘kong wine with matching candles in the table. tumaba! At saka, ano naman, e, nagda- And because it’s cold in the rooftop, a diet din naman ako. Yung mga tamang blanket was there for the two of them. pagkain lang talaga yung kinakain ko para hindi talaga ‘ko masyadong Until now, there has been no official tumaba or lumaki masyado yung baby. statement by Anne or Sam that both of Mga healthy vegetables and fish ang them are officially on. But the lass didn’t kinakain ko, pero walang rice,” deny the fact that Sam is courting the explained Jen. actress. As of now, there has been no planned name for the baby, be it a girl or “Right time. Siyempre gusto ko, I want to a boy. But according to the actress, she be sure na talaga. Ayoko na ng break- really would love to have a baby girl. And break na ‘yan. Ayoko na ng mga ganun, when it comes to the baby’s surname, ‘no?! Twenty-three na ako,” pahayag pa Jen immediately said that it will be ni Anne sa amin,” answered Anne when Mercado, contrary to what Patrick wants. a Anne Curtis & Sam Melby asked on when she will finally answer Sam. a If you don’t know she’s pregnant, According to a reliable source, after you won’t notice that Jennylyn’s already More Showbiz Gossip - SEE PAGE 16 Anne Curtis watched Sam Milby’s five months pregnant. Aside from not getting fat on her pregnancy, she still www.filipinostar.org APRIL 2008 12 The North American Filipino Star STAR PHOTO GALLERY Aliwan Festival in Manila (see page 5) Photos by Joey de Leon

Sultan Kudarat children

Aliwan Festival Participants

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

www.filipinostar.org APRIL 2008 14 The North American Filipino Star and its predecessor program, the All entries become the property of ALPHA PHI Foreign Domestic Movement (FDM). MBC, which will have the right to COMMUNITY NEWS With this new bill, women currently reproduce, exhibit, or publish the working under the LCP are vulnerable images for promotional purposes, OMEGA sponsors benefit dance for to having their permanent residency indicating and acknowledging the applications arbitrarily denied. For photographer. Scouts Canada Laging Handa nearly 20 years, the organizations Deadline for submission of entries is on under the National Alliance of May 16, 2008 at 5 p.m. Complete The idea all began one December importance of the Scout's mission to Philippine Women in Canada has been details may be found on the Aliwan night during a get-together in our home help young boys and girls develop into documenting and researching the Fiesta link of the MBC website at right after our caroling practice. self-fulfilled individuals through a non- experience of the Filipino community www.mbcradio.net Present were MR. MOISES MEDINA, a formal education process. under this program and calling for the Sponsored by Smart Buddy, Tanduay, Scout volunteer, his wife MRS. DORIS Before the end of that night, Doris, scrapping of the Live-In Caregiver Unilab, Suplicio Lines, and Dunkin’ KING-MEDINA, an APO member, my Rory and myself came up with an idea- Program and all anti-immigrant policies. Donuts, the grand parade of Aliwan husband, MR. ROMY VALENZUELA, a --how about doing a dance sometime This call is all the more stronger with the Fiesta 2008 takes place on May 3, Scout Leader and an APO adviser, MS. in the Spring and the proceeds, or part introduction of this new bill. traversing the length of Roxas RORY POSCABLO, our (APO) of it could be used to help tackle this The press conference Boulevard, and culminating in front of treasurer and myself. particular problem. Such donation will speakers will include a representative Aliw Theatre. After a few drinks and topics as well, help encourage new Scouts to register from NDP-MP Thomas Mulcair's office, ALIWAN FIESTA: one that definitely caught everybody's as members this coming June 2008 Mr. Graham Carpenter; Roderick SHOWCASING FILIPINO CRAFTSMANSHIP interest is one problem that Scouts especially those who are not financially Carreon, Chairperson of SIKLAB- AND DESIGN Canada 0592 Laging Handa is facing able. We came up with this Disco- Canada, and Joanne Vasquez, Board Fiestas provide excellent opportunities right now. According to MR. ROMY themed 70's Dance so it will be a Member of the Kapit Bisig Centre at to celebrate Filipino craftsmanship and VALENZUELA AND MR. MOISES nostalgic fun as well. The night ended 4900 Fulton Street, Montreal. ingenuity. So when the nation’s most MEDINA, there is a very low number of with a positive outlook and the rest is Lmatters”. popular festivals converge in one single membership for a while now since this history. “Immigrant families can’t count on event, expect pre-eminent craftsmen in group was organized and partly For now, we are calling everybody's Dion’s Liberals to stand up to Stephen the different regions to bring out their because some parents cannot afford support to this upcoming Dance that is Harper,” says Chow. most innovative ideas. the cost of membership registration really for a very good cause.(Please -30- For the sixth consecutive year, entries Our organization, ALPHA PHI see our advertisement in this For more information please contact: to the float competition of the Aliwan OMEGA, was founded by a newspaper.) Rupinder Kaur, media officer: (613) Fiesta, organized by Manila Scoutmaster himself, MR. FRANK 222-5048 or [email protected] Broadcasting Company and the REED HORTON, and was founded CRISTY TIBURCIO-VALENZUELA Nathan Rotman, Office of Olivia Chow: Cultural Center of the Philippines, in based on the same principles as the (613) 995-1594 cooperation with the cities of Manila Scouts. We share and recognize the PHOTO COMPETITION FOR and Pasay, will bring out the ingenuity Overseas Filipinos and Member of Parliament hold press ALIWAN FIESTA of Filipino artisans and designers in the quest to earn the grand prize of half a conference to oppose immigration changes from Bill C-50 Manila Broadcasting Company is million pesos. Banking on local mounting a photography competition approve permanent residency folklore and indigenous traditions are in line with this year’s Aliwan Fiesta, Montreal, QC - On Wednesday, April applications. floats from all regions of the country, scheduled on May 1-3 at the CCP 23rd at 10:00 AM, the Filipino "Bill C-50 will certainly leave the including NCR.Float designs will make Complex in Pasay. community in Montreal and a Filipino community more vulnerable to use of local textiles, decorative mats, The contest, which carries the representative from MP Thomas human rights violations as temporary and basketry in vibrant colours – all theme “Sayaw, Padyak, Indak” is open Mulcair's office will hold a press workers," states Roderick Carreon, bearing distinct regional imprints of to both amateur and professional conference to speak against the National Chairperson of SIKLAB- master weavers. Agricultural produce photographers, using digital or film- passing of Bill C-50, a budget bill that Canada (Advance and Uphold the and flowers also find their use as based cameras. Photos of the proposes unprecedented and Rights and Welfare of Overseas Filipino accessories and raw material for the dangerous changes to the immigration Workers in Canada). "Under the racist streetdance contingents must have floats. Okkil, originally from the system. and anti-woman policies of the Live-In been taken during the competition middle-eastern Islamic art of the Under Bill C-50, the Citizenship Caregiver Program (LCP), Filipinos period, and should not have won nor Umayyad dynasty in the eighth century, and Immigration Minister will be given have been placed in slave-like working have been published in any book or lends a whole repertory of plant- the right to select applications and conditions where they already photography magazine. Entries must shaped folk motif to carved, woven and determine if applications should be experience abuse by their employers be printed in full colour on any brand of brass-cast pieces common to the fast-tracked, frozen, or even denied, and long hours without overtime pay. photo paper in 8R size (8 inches x 10 Maranao, Tausug, Samal, and Badjao. despite already fulfilling the strict Now, the Canadian government wants inches). These should be submitted to The skill and creativity of Mindanao requirements. The Conservative to heighten their exploitation by Eloi Baltazar at the MBC office, Sotto natives which also found fruition in their government justifies these policy removing the little protection they Street, CCP Complex, Pasay City in an seafaring and boatbuilding skills, are changes as an effort to reduce a currently receive under Canadian laws." envelope with an Aliwan Fiesta Photo also highlighted. backlog of 800,000 applications, and Filipino women, make up over Competition entry form in triplicate (one Ilokano damili pottery, with its further reduce the small amount of 90% of those entering Canada under copy attached to the photograph, one solid role in the indigenous lifestyles funding allocated for immigrant the Live-In Caregiver Program. After for the receiving staff, and one copy for celebrated during festivals, are also application processing. The completing 24 months of service, within the photographer-entrant). The name dominant fixtures, in the same way that government funding set aside for a 36-month period, they are eligible to of the contest participant should not Bulacan’s folk art, Singkaban, gives immigration processing is currently 1% apply for permanent residency and appear on the face of the entry. rise to the decorative arches whittled of the overall immigration budget. In sponsor their families. Since the early P50,000 are at stake for the first prize from special wood.Collectively, the float reality, this is a move to increase the 1980s, nearly 100,000 Filipino women winner, with P25,000 going to second parade of Aliwan Fiesta, supported by arbitrary power of the government to have come to Canada under the LCP place, and P10,000 for the third prize. Smart Buddy, Tanduay, Unilab, Sulpicio Lines, and Dunkin’ Donuts, which will be held on May 3, traversing Roxas Boulevard from Quirino Grandstand to Aliw Theater at the CCP Complex, will once more emit a blaze of kaleidoscopic colour as the participating festivals reflect their own community spirit. Comprising the judging panel are renowned floral architect Rachy Cuna; the Director of the Metropolitan Museum of Manila and Vice Chairman of the NCCA’s Committee on Monuments and Sites - Eric Zerrudo; the president of the Art Association of the Philippines Raul Isidro; National Museum Director Dr. Corazon Alvina; and the Ayala Museum’s Senior Curator and Head of Conservation Kenneth Esguerra.

www.filipinostar.org APRIL 2008 The North American Filipino Star 15 Why You Should Make Your Funeral Pre-Arrangement on all products and services; which, protects you against inflationary price I recently gave a seminar on and we are forced to deal with it. time of death. A funeral pre- increases, and also reduces the Saturday, April 12th on the topic of When arrangements have not been arrangement enables you to express possibility of overspending. We offer funeral pre-arrangement for members made prior to a death, families are left your preferences regarding your final five (5) year interest-free financing of the Philippine Centre Foundation of to make the numerous and complex farewell without pressure and while made by monthly or annual Greater Montreal here at the Centre instalments. The sums paid are funéraire Côte-des-Neiges. The deposited in trust in the name of the members in attendance found the buyer in accordance with the Act information to be valuable and were respecting pre-arranged funeral pleasantly surprised by the logic, services and sepultures to be simplicity and advantages of our pre- transferred at the time of death. arrangement procedure once they Furthermore, Centre funéraire learned how our program worked. Côte-des-Neiges is a proud Dignity Having worked as a family Memorial Provider, so your pre- counsellor in pre-arrangement arrangement plan is transferrable to services for the last eight years, I have any one of our 1500 affiliates witnessed the growing tendency throughout Canada and the United among adults of all ages to prefer States. Pre-arranging with us provides removing the burden on their families you the additional flexibility of and friends by planning and paying for modifying your arrangement should their own funeral arrangements. For your wishes change. the benefit of those of you who are Ultimately, a pre-arrangement unaware of the importance and provides peace of mind for you and advantages of pre-arrangement, I your loved ones. In eight years, I have would like to outline a few pertinent yet to meet someone who has points. regretted giving or receiving such a Survey results overwhelmingly A souvenir photo of the information seminar held at the Centre Funeraire Cote des Neiges loving gift. If you prefer to facilitate name the death of a loved one as the given by Sandra Wong and Teresa Di Palma Melchior (5th and 6th from the right). things for your family, I would most stressful event in our lives. They decisions involved in planning a you are in full control of all decisions, encourage you to get your questions also indicate that 72% of adults agree funeral within a very short period of and guarantees that your wishes will answered by contacting me for a that planning ahead makes sense as time. As a result, families typically be carried out as stipulated in your personal free consultation or to attend death is something we all must face. experience tremendous emotional contract. Moreover, your family knows one of my group seminars at (514) However, even though more and more strain and financial difficulties. and thus understands your choices; 342-8000. people today are making their final Fortunately, there is a better which, eliminates any lingering doubts Sincerely yours, arrangements, unfortunately the vast way. Making your own arrangements in their minds as to whether or not they Sandra Wong majority of us avoid discussing death spares your loved ones the emotional made the right decisions. Pre-arrangement Counselor and funerals and procrastinate against and financial difficulties involved in The numerous financial Centre funéraire Côte-des-Neiges looking into it, until a tragedy strikes making funeral arrangements at the advantages include guaranteed costs

www.filipinostar.org APRIL 2008 16 The North American Filipino Star Showbiz Gossip Continued from p.10 Childhood dream finally came true Charice to guest on Oprah for Anne Curtis Kid singing sensation Charice This summer, Anne Curtis’ dream talaga ang lahat,” admitted Anne on Pempengco has returned to the United will finally come to a reality. As young her first time with Aga a States as guest in the highest-rating talk as 12 years old, when she just started show Oprah, hosted by Oprah Winfrey. acting, she already dreamt of having Based on the talk show’s teaser for to pair with Matinee Idol Aga Muhlach. May, Oprah will feature children with Star Cinema’s latest flick When extraordinary and amazing talents, Love Begins, Anne Curtis will be including our very own Charice paired with Aga Muhlach. Pempengco. The global singer confirmed this in “Tandang-tanda ko pa na nasabi an interview with ABS-CBN News, but ko yun, as in I was still a child then,” other than that, she refused to give off laughed Anne. . “Hindi nga ako any details about her guesting in the talk makapaniwala, then may kissing show. scenes pa kami. Hindi naman sa Charice just came from London for nailang ako, pero I was so tensed the her guest appearance in Paul O’Grandy first time we got together sa mga Show, a British talk show, last April 8. eksena namin,” continued Anne. She wowed the audience with her “I’m so happy, kasi lagi niyang powerful voice, singing her signature ipinapaalala sa akin na mag-relax lang song, “And I Am Telling You I’m Not ako, magiging maganda ang mga Going.” a eksena namin. Never kong Charice Pempengco naramdamang nag-take advantage siya, and when in front of the cameras, Actress Anne Curtis Indie Film actress for an I’m always aware na trabaho lang international movie Kris Aquino suffers miscarriage in an international movie, after T.V. cancer. Carpio, who has a role in the Hollywood "I had a miscarriage. Collapsed movie musical Across The Universe. The gestational sac and blighted ovum. We Filipino talent is no other than Mercedes just have to wait for my body to expel on Cabral, an Indie film actress, who has its own. Seven and half weeks. God's will been chosen by acclaimed Korean so I can take care of my mom. Just came director Park Chan-wook. She will play from Dr. Pastorfide with my mom now. On an important role in the horror film Thirst. our way home from the hospital," Aquino Joint Security Area (2000), said in the text message. Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance (2002), Last March 13, Aquino said she was Oldboy (2003), Sympathy for Lady pregnant with her second child by Vengeance (2005), and I’m A Cyborg, husband and star cager James Yap. But That’s OK (2006) are some of the Aquino said her gynecologist told her South Korea’s critically acclaimed flicks that there were already heartbeats heard that he directed. during the Doppler Test. Mercedes Cabral, a 21-year-old Fine Kris, Kristina Bernadette Cojuangco Arts Student at the University of the Aquino in real life, is the daughter of Philippines, is quite known in the Kris Aquino former president Corazon Aquino and the independent film hub. She garnered the late senator Benigno Aquino Jr., both key Best Supporting Actress award at the Talk show host and TV game show figures in toppling the Marcos regime. queen Kris Aquino suffered a miscarriage She has a son, Joshua, with her former Mercedes Cabral 2007 UP Inbox TV and Radio Festival for her performance in the digital film Bitin.. on Tuesday, a day after announcing that live-in-partner, actor Philip Salvador. She Another Filipino talent is set to cast a her mother, former president Corazon also has a son, James, by Yap. a Aquino, was diagnosed with colon The North American Filipino Star Classified Ads ADVERTISING APARTMENT FOR RENT DRIVING NURSING AID 100% JOB OPPORTUNITY! CDN, PLAMONDON - VICTORIA 4 1/2 LARGE Cheapest way to advertise! 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www.filipinostar.org APRIL 2008 18 The North American Filipino Star this boat has made it out as it has…. funeral for him and burial at sea. Even Global Again, we are still watching the the rest of them still with us, they are people… Problem with the camera doing a lot better than on the boat. Perspectives there is a lot of humidity and these They are fed, given beds, clean clothes people have been in the water quite and medical assistance right now. awhile. Even some of the other ships There is a young lad, they brought him are watching this – it could be in yesterday – he just lay there and he interesting to see what will happen to could not even speak, his eyes were these people.” near death. Now he is up and about Scene 2--(No conversation at and seeing the rest of the refugees. first – just seeing refugees – men, women Some are not so happy in this area and children being helped on board the here and some are not responding too ship. Some young children being carried well, although we have a lot of old by seamen/women)… people. We see a lot of people up and “It is just unreal – I am choked – I about – they were at sea from 31 May am very shocked to see the number of till 20 June. They had no water or food people that have come off that boat. I Isaac T. Goodine don’t know what they have experienced for 9 days and had run into a storm and and if we had not come along, how long lost their engine and had been drifting From Limbo to Heaven: Stateless Vietnamese they would have lasted. They are weak, ever since.” disoriented…. Again, this is still bringing When I met these sailors they people move from the Philippines to Canada. the people off from the boat. It appears were feeling very good about the fact One family of six stateless history for just one “boat” is particularly that looking down into the boat, it looks like that the fact that they had performed a there are people down in the hold. We humanitarian role while in uniform. people became the beneficiary of the relevant to Canadians and Filipinos as don’t know if they are alive or dead – we confluence of three developments: (1) it involved cooperation and Certainly, it was the ethical thing to do. will find out in a few minutes.” One hundred and seven people were The Canadian Government has coordination rarely seen in Scene 3—The rescue rescued, two of whom died on board recently granted stateless Vietnamese international incidents aimed at purely operation. and were given the dignity of a burial at people living in the Philippines humanitarian efforts, particularly when “We are helping them aboard. Most of sea ceremony. board permanent entry on humanitarian and the military is involved in helping the assistants are in coveralls and First and foremost, credit is compassionate grounds; (2) Ever since innocent victims of someone else’s wearing rubber gloves. It is a good due to the Commander of the task the war in Vietnam ended in 1975, the war. idea from a safety aspect because force who made the ethical decision to Philippines has provided safe haven for The following is a transcript nobody knows whether or not these bring the people on board. Then their thousands of Vietnamese who left, taken from a videotaping of an incident people are carrying diseases and “boat” was blown up so it would not be perhaps this could spread quickly. a hazard to shipping. Then Seems now that some of the weaker negotiations began, involving the ones – those that were neglected Government of the Philippines, where earlier, are starting to come aboard. I the navy was headed; the Canadian don’t know whether he is alive or dead Ambassador to the Philippines; the – a young child on the boat – yeah he United Nations High Commissioner for is all right. I believe they are now Refugees and Canadian Departments pulling up stretcher cases. This is a of Defense and External Affairs. Due to view down into the hold of the boat sincere and humanitarian concern peoples’ ship and it seems to be quite shown by all the actors in this drama a few people in there and I don’t know the issues were resolved and the what kind of shape they are in but there survivors were delivered to a refugee seems to be movement. It looks like camp under the Jurisdiction of the that everyone else is coming up in UNHCR on the Island of the Palawan stretchers from now on – most of the where they would await “possible” ones that could walk have already immigration to a friendly country. This been helped on board. It is starting to camp has no barbed wire enclosures get dark now and it is awkward to film and the people are virtually self but looks like they are not in very good governing. Their main impediment is shape down below.” that they are stateless and may never “They are getting washed be granted permanent entry to any down and changed into clean clothes. country. There is an area where the people who Since May is Asian Heritage Nahan Thanh Nguyen, his wife Hue Thi Le, and their children are starting over in have handled the boat people are Month, the recent happy turn of events, Canada after living in the Philippines as stateless Vietnamese people getting washed. They are getting although slow in coming, should be a …Photo from the Ottawa Citizen, April 18, 2008 blankets, soap and water and these cause of celebration and respect for are the things that people need most in mainly by boat, and those who have at sea. It occurred just prior to the First Canadians, Filipinos, and Vietnamese life right now. This is one of the stayed in the Philippines are Gulf War and was recorded on board a as well as the UNHCR people who refugee children – she is probably considered “stateless”, and therefore Canadian Navy vessel, part of the Task have given new hope to stateless feeling a lot better than yesterday – hi in a kind of “limbo” without jobs as Force preparing for the First Gulf War. people. Welcome to Canada. honey – she is so sweet. Monday, 20 they await opportunities to immigrate (June, 20 & 21, 1990) June – this is the second day the somewhere; and (3) Finally, the Scene 1—The video shows a Isaac Goodine can be reached at; refugees have been on board. They Vietnamese Canadian Community’s small boat in the midst of Canadian [email protected] are putting the refugees into cleaning project Freedom at Last , and a local navy vessels. The video is made from His Website is : www.ikes-world.com stations to clean them up and once branch organized by Haquyen Nguyen the supply ship Provider showered and cleaned up, they will be called Ottawa Friends has rallied 19 “We have come across a boat The Philippine Centre given clean overalls . Before that they people to raise enough money to load of boat people. It is really are checked out and inoculated. It Foundation of Greater sponsor the family of six and provide a amazing -- it is a small boat packed seems to be a system to be working Montreal fully furnished rental unit as well as job with people. Again, this is a video off very well that for everyone on our boat, opportunities as soon as they are the Provider and we have come across SOCIAL DANCE this is the first time they have ever seen settled. They are finally out of limbo. some boat people in the South China Friday, June 27, 2008 anything like this – a feeling of joy and Ultimately, 159 other persons will follow Sea. We don’t know how many miles 7:00 P.M. - 12:00 A.M. sorrow together – kind of sad to see as, and when, the other 40 chapters of between Vietnam and the Philippines the conditions these people are in and 6767 Cote des Neiges the Freedom at Last are able to but this is many miles from nowhere happy that we got them out of the CRC Building sponsor them in other communities and we are wondering what to do with situation they have been in. When you across Canada. these people. It is amazing how many Donation: $10 are in the situation, it really does affect Some have been waiting for people they have on board that small For the Benefit of the you. This is the area inside the hanger decades and many were born boat. We are about 300 miles off the Filipino Solidarity Cooperative where the refugees are in – a lot of stateless. How they got to the coast between Vietnam and the Tel.: 514-733-8915 them are still bedridden. We had,one Philippines is yet another story. A case Philippines and this is just amazing that or 514-485-7861 that expired last night – they had a www.filipinostar.org APRIL 2008 The North American Filipino Star 19 Philippine Parliamentarian Tour of Canada 2008 Montreal, April 12, 2008 - A crises, widespread high-level delegation of Philippine parliament- corruption, and extra-judicial killings arians held a press conference at the allegedly committed by the FAMAS building. Rep. Crispin Beltran government. and Rep. Luz Ilagan were interviewed This community event was by a La Presse journalist, and were later organized by members of the working joined by Rep Satur Ocampo. committee Riza Esmeralda (FAMAS), Questions revolved around the Tony de Jesus (CAP-CPC), Joey current political situation in the Calugay (CAP CPC), Tess Tesalona Philippines and criticisms of the (CPC & PWC), Thelma Castro (PINAY), administration of President Gloria Jojo Nicolas (FNAQ), Father Art Arroyo. They cited human rights Claycay (IFI Montreal), Reggie Villamor abuses, severe economic and political (CFFQ( and May Vurika (PINAY).

Members of the working committee pose with the visiting parliamentarians and Hon. Thomas Mulcair.

Photo taken afer the press conference, Hon. Thomas Mulcair flanked by Rep Luz Hon. Thomas Mulcair signing the guest book of FAMAS others look on. Ilagan and Laura Julie Perreault, La Press reporter. GGiillmmoorree IInntteerrnnaattiioonnaall CCoolllleeggee are pleased to invite you to the “Writers Helping Writers” && tthhee WWoorrlldd AAccaaddeemmyy ooff LLeetttteerrss workshop

inter-active, multi-cultural, motivational Your ideas should not remain locked up in your head - find a way to express them and feel fulfilled by doing so. This workshop will help you get started easily in the most interesting way. Find out the secret by attending this unique workshop which will start soon. What they say about writing: Who should attend: There’s only one way to learn to write - read! People from all walks of life, fields Every person who has the ability to read can learn how to write. and occupations - nurses, doctors, What do writers do? They write. architects, engineers, clerks, What do good writers do? They write and re-write. secretaries, teachers, students - What do excellent writers do? They write, re-write, re-write, re- anyone who wants to live a fuller life. write until they get it “right.” Workshop Leaders Why you should attend: Proof of Attendance: Everyone has to write, whether you An attractive certificate and tax receipt will be given at the earn your living by writing or end of the workshop. working for yourself or others, your Proceedings will be videotaped. You may purchase a ability to express yourself in English copy for your future reference. is absolutely essential. Since NOTE: English has become the language of In addition to establishing a writers’ network, a public business around the world, speaking course will be a follow-up to this workshop. mastering the art of writing and speaking is the key to your success Schedule: May16, 17, 18, 2008 Zenaida F. Kharroubi in your personal and professional Isaac T. Goodine B.A. English, M.A. Ed. Friday - 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. BsC, B.Ed., C.Eng life.Learning to write well helps you Studies win friends and influence people! Saturday & Saturday - 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. International Speaker & Author ÈLeaders Leading Leaders: Diploma in Education, TESL Resource Person, Transparency Founder & Director-General Gilmore International College Register by appointment - call 514-485-7861 International, Former Principal, Director Gilmore International College 4950 Queen Mary Rd. Penthouse of Schools & Colleges, Human Editor & Publisher, Montreal, QC H3W 1X3 Tuition Fee: Resources Development, Specialist, North American Filipino Star 2 1/2 days seminar Consultant, World Bank Group Commissioner, Scouts www.gilmorecollege.com $495 tuition fees including taxes and materials. Canada, Quebec Council “Laging Handa” 0592

www.filipinostar.org APRIL 2008 20 The North American Filipino Star

World Rice Crisis - Special Reports (continued) Military camps get own allocation of Prison awaits rice hoarders, President P18.25 rice warns April 19, 2008 some buyers to cut the size of their April 16, 2008 the staple from local and foreign President Arroyo ordered the orders, said Apichat Chansakulporn, President Gloria Arroyo on sources. “The country’s rice supply is military to make sure that government- managing director of President Agri Tuesday vowed to imprison anyone secure for the foreseeable future,” she subsidized rice is sold in camp Trading, Thailand’s fourth-largest rice who hoards state-subsidized rice. She said. commissaries nationwide so soldiers exporter. assured the public of enough supply The 13 suspected rice hoarders, may benefit from it. “Clients are slowing their purchases of the grain and that the country will Gonzalez said, have been included in She gave the order to Armed Forces because the prices are very high,” be spared riots similar to those the hold-departure list of the Chief Hermogenes Esperon Jr. in Camp Apichat said by telephone from overseas caused by soaring food government to prevent them from Aguinaldo, where she attended the first Bangkok. Price gains were “driven more prices. leaving the country while their cases meeting of the Association of Generals by psychological impact than real “Anyone caught stealing rice from are being heard. and Flag Officers and briefly sold rice at demand and supply. The perception is the people must be thrown into jail,” Among the charges filed were now toward an uptrend.” the commissary there at P18.25 a kilo. President Arroyo said after the regular hoarding, illegal price manipulation She expanded the coverage of A global food crisis had reached Cabinet meeting held at the through the commission of hoarding, government-subsidized rice even as rice “emergency proportions,” United Department of Justice to discuss the unauthorized possession of futures rose for a fifth day, recording the Nations secretary-general Ban Ki-Moon rapid rise in the price of rice, the biggest weekly advance in at least said April 14. The World Bank has government rice, unauthorized seven years, on concern export curbs forecast that 33 nations from Mexico to country’s staple cereal. rebagging of government rice in imposed by China and Vietnam will Yemen may face social unrest after food She added that she will lead the commercial sacks, and failure to spread as importing nations struggle to and energy costs increased. crackdown on any form of corruption display signboards. meet their needs. China, the world’s most populous by public or private persons who Gonzalez said rice hoarders could nation, has started to block or tax some would divert supplies or pervert the suffer up to 40 years of imprisonment In other developments: food-related exports to make sure that price of the essential commodity in or reclusion perpetua if the crime local supplies remain adequate. The any way. committed falls within the category of • American banking giant Citibank said country set a tax on rice shipments at 5 During the Cabinet meeting, Mrs. economic sabotage. high food prices and limited rice supply percent this year and started to tax Arroyo was told that the National He instructed Senior State would not result in food riots and wheat exports at 20 percent. Bureau of Investigation and the Prosecutor Roberto Lao, the chief of political instability in the Philippines, but The world’s fastest growing major Bureau of Customs had filed separate the Anti-Rice Hoarding Task Force, to warned the cost of the country’s rice economy announced Thursday that it criminal complaints against 13 alleged speed up the prosecution of rice subsidy would run to P51 billion was increasing the tax on fertilizer rice hoarders and 21 alleged hoarders to prove that the government • The government plans to conduct two shipments to “control exports” and smugglers before the Justice is serious in running after crooked rice more tenders for 500,000 and 300,000 damp local prices, according to the department. dealers. Finance Ministry. tons of rice, respectively, in May “It [the filing of the charges] Gonzalez reiterated that the following a successful tender on China also turned down a Philippine shows the government’s resolve in government will confiscate the stocks Thursday request for wheat exports, Trade getting to the bottom of this perceived and warehouses of rice dealers who • The National Food Authority said it Minister Peter Favila said April 11. rice-shortage problem,” Justice will declare a rice holiday. He cited would not give up its rice subsidy Sumeth Laomoraphorn, president despite soaring rice prices in the world of C.P. Intertrade, Thailand’s sixth- Secretary Raul Gonzalez told provisions of the 1987 Constitution market. largest rice exporter, also said the pace reporters. that protect the general welfare of the Rice for May delivery rose as much of purchases from some nations was The President urged the public people in times of emergencies, as 93.5 cents, or 4 percent, to a record beginning to slow. not to panic over the price increases, including “artificial” rice shortage. a $24.235 per 100 pounds on the Chicago “Orders from China are slowing, saying the Philippines has enough of Board of Trade on Thursday. The they may perceive that fragrant and contract has gained as much as 16 white rice from Thailand and Vietnam is Cheap rice cards only for Metro Manilans percent this week, and more than overly expensive,” Sumeth said. doubled in the past year. “Some African countries are April 21, 2008 reserved for soldiers and families with India and Egypt have also curbed chasing prices up, but some in that The government will focus the a monthly income of P4,500 or less. sales this year to safeguard local region are balking at buying more distribution of subsidized rice on the Officials scrambled to solve the supplies. The gain in rice, as well as because they have limited financial cities, where the shortage of the rice distribution problem even as rice energy, has prompted warnings that civil resources.” commodity is felt most, while futures rose for a fifth day, recording unrest may spread as the poor in Africa The Chicago rice contract’s so- speeding up identifying other the biggest weekly advance in at least and Asia can’t afford to eat, and their called relative-strength index reached depressed areas where it should seven years, on concern export curbs governments can’t fund or find sufficient 84 on Friday, and has traded above 70 equally be distributed, officials said imposed by China and Vietnam will imports. all this week. A reading above 70 is yesterday. spread as importing nations struggle “More and more countries will have regarded among traders as a signal the Interior Secretary Ronaldo Puno to meet their needs. restrictions on exports,” Frederic price may be set to drop. The contract said the access cards allowing The jump in rice prices had Neumann, an economist at HSBC was at $24.16 at 8:50 a.m. in London. indigent families to buy rice at P18.25 forced some buyers to cut the size of Global Research, said by telephone The Philippines called this month for a kilo would be released only in critical their orders, said Apichat from Hong Kong. an Asian summit on escalating food areas where subsidized rice is in short Chansakulporn, managing director of “There’s some pressure on the Thai prices, especially rice, and urged India, supply. President Agri Trading, Thailand’s China, Japan and the members of the government to curtail shipments.” “The cards will be released in fourth-largest rice exporter. Thailand, the world’s largest rice 10-state Association of Southeast Asian urban areas only,” he said. “Clients are slowing their exporter, boosted shipments 66 percent Nations to attend. “[Metro Manila] is really the focus, purchases because the prices are in the first three months, according to World leaders “must come together but there might be other urban areas very high,” Apichat said by telephone Commerce Minister Mingkwan and identify the issues, including rising Sangsuwan on April 16. The nation’s fuel prices and rising demand,” Al- in the provinces that also require our from Bangkok. 100-percent Grade B White Rice gained Ghazim Wurie, the World Food assistance.” Price gains were “driven more by 54 percent in the month to April 9, Program’s country director for the Presidential Spokesman Ignacio psychological impact than real according to data from the Rice Philippines, said in an interview. Bunye said the Social Welfare demand and supply. The perception is Exporters’ Association. After collective steps to increase Department should speed up now toward an uptrend.” The Philippines, the world’s biggest output “we’ll begin to see a downward identifying impoverished families A global food crisis had reached rice importer, received offers for just two- trend in prices.” within Metro Manila so they could be “emergency proportions,” United thirds of the grain it sought at a tender Households in poorer countries given the access cards quickly to buy Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki- Thursday at prices about 40 percent spend a larger share of their income on subsidized rice. Moon said April 14. The World Bank higher than in March. The country, food compared with those in richer Last week, President Arroyo has forecast that 33 nations from which shipped in 1.9 million tons of rice nations, magnifying the impact of ordered the pullout of cheap rice from Mexico to Yemen may face social last year, fills 10 percent to 15 percent of costlier rice, wheat and meat, according commercial outlets after observing unrest after food and energy costs to the US Department of Agriculture. a local needs from imports. that even rich families were buying increased. a The jump in rice prices has forced government-subsidized rice, which is

www.filipinostar.org APRIL 2008 The North American Filipino Star 21 Hike pay, President asks wage boards Bishops against pardon of Magdalós in Give emergency powers to GMA, says lawmaker Oakwood April 15, 2008 Dumpit’s House Resolution 512 April 15, 2008 President Gloria Arroyo said claimed that “the urgency of the Religious leaders warned Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye Monday she wants the regional wage situation compels drastic measures on President Gloria Arroyo on Monday said Mrs. Arroyo’s decision on granting boards to convene and consider a the part of the government in order to against pardoning nine military officers pardon will be in line with the possible wage hike to help workers address pressing need on the rice convicted of mounting a failed coup in Constitution. cope with the increasing prices of oil crisis, whereby mitigating, if not 2003. Malacañang, meanwhile, took the and rice. eliminating, the colossal effects of the “The government will not win any opportunity to give unsolicited advice At the same time, a congressman crisis.” brownie points here, because the to Sen. Antonio Trillanes 4th to learn is proposing to give the President “In view of the massive proportions public is not in favor of it,” said Rodolfo from the example set by his former emergency powers to deal with the of the crisis and in order to effectively Diamante, executive secretary of the comrades to have a change of heart. food issue—but that immediately drew address the same, there is a Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the He was a former Navy lieutenant who flak from the Senate. compelling need to treat the rice Philippines’ episcopal commission on led the Oakwood mutiny, but unlike the President Arroyo, during a visit to problem as a calamity and grant Her prison pastoral care. nine being recommended for pardon, the Yazaki-Torres manufacturing plant Excellency President Gloria Last week, a Makati City court he did not change his plea from “not in Calamba, province, on Macapagal-Arroyo emergency powers sentenced nine junior officers who led guilty” to “guilty.” Monday, said, “Because of the in a restrictive scope,” the resolution some 300 troops in taking over Deputy Press Secretary Lorelei increasing cost in the price of fuel and said. Oakwood, a high-end apartment-hotel Fajardo said, “Maybe Senator Trillanes rice, we’re calling for a meeting of the The emergency powers should in the city, the country’s