Step up and join the trade professionals. P R E P A R E F O R A Become a CITP N E W C A R E E R ! Register now at Gilmore College. E N R O L L A T Tel.514-485-7861 G II L M O R E C O L L E G E C A L L 5 1 4 - 4 8 5 - 7 8 6 1 Be prepared for the global economy October 2006, Vol. XXIV, No. 10 www.filipinostar.org Liberals consult ethnic communities on priority issues HEADLINES QLP Conference on Issues of Cultural Communities

MORE THAN 600 QLP MEMBERS MEET TO FIND WAYS TO MOVE QUEBEC FORWARD Montreal, October 14, 2006 – In the presence of the leader of the Quebec Liberal Party and Premier of Quebec, Mr. Jean Charest, and the Minister of Immigration and Cultural Communities, Ms. Lise Thériault, more than 600 active members of the Quebec QLP Sector confferences wiith Liberal Party attended a conference focusing mulltii-cullturall communiitiies ...... p.. 4 on the needs and interests of cultural I communities. The conference was entitled « cultural communities in the Quebec of tomorrow – what role will they play and what contribution will they make to our future? » During this event, the participants took part in discussions centering on three main themes: Quebec Premier Jean Charest making his speech which was roundly applauded by all members. He said that there is only choice to make - to make Quebec go forward. the Quebec of tomorrow, the real and potential contribution of cultural communities to Quebec Liberal Party positions itself on issues Aside from the Premier and the Minister of Debt ffor nature swaps - economic development and demographic affecting cultural communities. Together we Immigration and Cultural Communities, more Earth Tallk Page 11 concerns, and the rights of visible minorities will face the challenges that await us and than a dozen Cabinet ministers and MNAs as they related to the ability of such continue to develop and strengthen Quebec” were also present at the conference. communities to be truly involved in the the Premier stated. The co-chairs of the conference, Ms. institutions of our society. According to Minister Thériault: “By Yasmine Alloul and Mr. Saul Polo, felt that the « Quebec’s future is dependent on participating in this conference in large success of the event demonstrated that the citizens from all walks of life getting involved numbers, the Quebec Liberal Party’s active Quebec Liberal Party is sensitive to the needs and playing a part in our development. Today, members have demonstrated once again the and interests of Quebecers from cultural hundreds of ordinary citizens made importance that they attach to the aspirations communities : « This conference has allowed themselves available in order to identify of their fellow citizens from cultural us, as members of visible cultural priorities and express their ideas. The results communities. The important discussions that communities, to continue to take our rightful Lagiing Handa’’s Autumn of these discussions will determine how the we had today will allow us to pursue our campiing ffun iin Tagallog dream of a truly inclusive society” See Page 4 Giilmore Page 23 CDN residents face intercultural commission Contents Mr. Marvin Rotrand, City Councilor Global Perspectives . . . . . p. 6 of Snowdon district presided over the public meeting with the Intercultural Commission which works to foster Classified Ads ...... p. 10 tolerance and understanding among the diverse ethnic groups of our Health & Science . . . . . p. 21 Borough. He invited some community organizations to address the Entertainment . . . . . p. 16-17 Commission and alert them to their plans for the new year. The Philippine Cuisine . . . . . p. 10 Commission also acts as a conduit to explain community needs to the Historically yours ...... p. 9 various municipal services. The Community News...... p. 8 meeting was held at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 18, 2006 at the Intercultural Library on 6767 Cote des Neiges. READERS POLL Other citizens also made What do you think of the presentations and share their observations as well as pose questions Filipino Star’s new look? vote: www.filipinostar.org See Page 4 Intercultural Commission 2 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 Is Osama dead or alive? Does it really matter? Makati mayor ends sit-in after suspension ruling Editorial October 19, 2006 the Court of Appeals to issue a 60-day BY PHILLIP KNIGHTLEY Special Reporter The mayor of Manila's financial injunction against his suspension. district, a fierce critic of Philippine Binay, his deputy and entire October 20, 2006 he made against the United States President Gloria Arroyo, ended a council were suspended on Tuesday As the war in Iraq goes from bad to after the attacks on the World Trade defiant sit-in after winning a court ruling after the government accused the worse — it looks as if the moment is Center have turned out to be empty. against his suspension. leading opposition figure of having 500 rapidly arriving when pressure on the Homeland Security, admittedly at USA and Britain to get out will become the sacrifice of civil liberties and the irresistible — the one subject President moral high ground, has worked. In the Bush steers resolutely clear of is five years since 9/11 not a single life Osama bin Laden. Recently a single has been lost to terrorism on American uncorroborated French intelligence soil. Professor John Mueller of the Ohio report quoting Saudi security sources State University, who believes it is time had had the whole world briefly asking: to look at the threat from terrorism is Osama bin Laden alive or dead? But realistically, says that the number of surely this is the wrong question. people worldwide who are killed by A more illuminating one would be: international terrorists each year is not does it matter? And the short answer many more than the number who is, no. Since Osama bin Laden’s drown in bathtubs in the United States. stunningly successful attack on the Think carefully about that. United States on 9/11 we have Yes, Iraq is a dreadful mess and mistakenly believed that killing or thousands of innocent civilians have capturing him was central to the war on died as a result of the American terror. This was because an important invasion; some sources say as many emotion in the American psyche is as half a million. (The war has also revenge (see the plots of most produced a terrible toll of journalists Hollywood westerns) and the US was with 48 killed since January, the denied the catharsis that revenge on deadliest year since the start of the 9/11 attackers would have brought, hostilities in 2003.) And it is true that, as Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay speaks briefly to the media during an impromptu news because they were all dead anyway. American intelligence admits, the war conference, Thursday Sept. 17, 2006 in Makati. But their leader and planner was still there has brought Jihadists from all A jubilant but visibly exhausted non-existent employees on the city alive, so President Bush rode out after over the world, to fight the West. Jejomar Binay emerged from Makati payroll. him. City Hall where he had been holed up Arroyo's officials, who have The President’s language was for two days to meet his supporters criticized the mayor for allowing deliberately Hollywood: "We’re coming and vowed the "fight will continue" to opposition groups to hold anti- to get ya", and the reward was for clear his name. government rallies in Makati, said they Osama bin Laden "dead or alive". But "Will anyone be happy with what I he was nowhere to be found. The have been through?," Binay said when See Makati Mayor page 7 President of Pakistan, General asked what he felt of the decision by Musharraf, speculated in 2002 that the Al Qaeda chief had probably died of kidney failure because he had taken a Divisoria cubao kidney dialysis machine with him into But we should consider that the wilds of Afghanistan but there was Washington might have planned just Filipino Solidarity Cooperative nowhere that a man on the run could this — if the terrorists are fighting in 4711 Van Horne Avenue, Montreal, QC H3W 18 plug it in. Since then long periods of Iraq then they are not trying to attack silence — which revive rumours of his the American mainland. There is also Tel. 514-733-8915 death — have been punctuated by the the likelihood that Osama bin Laden More choices, release to Arab TV networks of audio himself has gone as far as he feels he competitive prices! • Frozen/Refrigerated • Barong Tagalog and video tapes on the thoughts of the needs to go. His place in the history of products • Phone Cards leader, the most recent being on June Islam is secure and dead or alive he • Dry Goods • Health, Beauty and 29. will remain a hero to millions of • Fruits & Vegetables Home Care But President Bush, from being Muslims throughout the world. What • Canned Goods, Oil, Products obsessed with bin Laden, now seldom more could he want? He has said he Vinegar, Spices • Ladies, Childlren’s mentions him because his advisers say wants Christians out of the Muslim holy • Juice, Soft Drinks, Wear it is unwise to draw public attention to lands and a settlement of the Palestine- Snacks • Souvenirs the fact that the most powerful military Israel question. Both are underway and • Rice, Cereals, • Miscellaneous new force in the world appears unable to inevitable. Dead or alive? Probably still Noodles items added daily capture an elderly, ailing terrorist who alive and in a part of Afghanistan the hides in caves. But there could be Americans do not know about and are another reason. The US administration even less likely to be able to reach, Tangkilikin ang sariling atin para umunlad may well have decided that Osama bin resting content with his achievements. Help yourself by supporting your own cooperative. Laden no longer matters. The threats a

The Noth American Filipino Star SUBSCRIPTION Name:______

Address:______4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse Tel.: 514-485-7861 (5th Floor) near Snowdon Metro E-Mail: [email protected] Telephone: Residence:______Office: ______Montreal, QCH3W 1X3 Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Chief Editor & Publisher Enclose a cheque or money order for: Michael Davantes Dr. Victor Gavino Lourdes Fabia Contributing Editor Esther Stansfield Entertainment News Editor 1 year or 12 issues$28 2 years or 24 issues$45 Lina V. Frnandez Nida Verginom Butaran Riza Esmeralda Bert Abiera Mary Joy Lizarondo Columnists Founder Sales Representatives Opinions, comments of writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect that of the management of Filcan Publications, Inc. www.filipinostar.org October 2006 The North American Filipino Star 3 Milenyo Typhoon final death toll pegged at 184 Manila wants 11,000 more troops to defeat rebels October 19, 2006 The typhoon battered with heavy October 20, 2006 people. Government officials on downpour and strong winds at least President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Peace talks with the NPA, brokered Wednesday asked for international and seven regions, including Metro Manila. has ordered the recruitment of an extra by Norway, stalled in 2004 and both local assistance in the rehabilitation of Relief and disaster officials identified 11,000 troops to step up the fight sides appear reluctant to resume areas devastated by typhoon Milenyo the provinces of Sorsogon and Albay against communist rebels and Islamic negotiations due to the military's and affected over a million persons. as the areas worst hit by Milenyo. militants, the military's chief of staff said offensive in rural areas outside Manila. In a press briefing, the National NDCC executive officer and on Friday. In June, Arroyo declared "all-out Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) concurrent Office of the Civil Defense General Hermogenes Esperon war" against the communist movement reported that Milenyo left 184 people (OCD) administrator Glenn Rabonza said additional forces were needed to after some NPA leaders conspired with dead, injured 536 others and 46 said the typhoon has left at least P6.53 check the expansion of the communist rogue troops and some political foes in persons missing. billion in damages to infrastructure and New People's Army (NPA) into urban an alleged plot to oust her in February. Sun.Star Network Online coverage to the agriculture sector. centres and reduce the fighting Esperon said the offensive against on journalist Marlene Esperat's murder capability of the rebels by 50 percent hundreds of Muslim rebels with ties to case See TYPHOON page 7 within the next three years. Jemaah Islamiah (JI), a Southeast The Philippines, a close ally to the Asian group that seeks a pan-Islamic United States, now has about 118,000 state in the region, would continue until members of the military but has been "our high-value targets are finished off". hampered in its security operations by He said three fresh battalions underfunding, corruption, low morale would be sent to the remote and a lack of modern equipment. southwestern island of Jolo to join Since 1969, the Philippines has about 6,000 troops trying to flush out been battling the Maoist-led NPA, Abu Sayyaf, the most violent of four which has about 7,000 fighters and is active in 69 of 79 provinces in a conflict See TROOPS page 6 that has killed more than 40,000 Jan. 15 deadline set for people’s initiative October 20, 2006 Eduardo Ermita said. The people’s initiative to amend He said that if the Supreme Court the Constitution must be approved by ruled favorably next week on the Jan. 15 if the 2007 elections are to be people’s initiative petition, preparations for an interim parliament, a ranking for a plebiscite would go into full swing. Palace official said yesterday. The Supreme Court is expected to “The filing of the certificates of rule on a petition from Sigaw ng Bayan candidacy [for the 2007 elections and the Union of Local Authorities of A downed and bended steel frame made for roadside advertisement crashed an SUV and a bus begins] on Jan. 15, so we must beat the Philippines to reverse the plying the EDSA route in Makati after typhoon Melenyo hit Metro Manila with winds up to 140 kms/hour. President Arroyo, who visited the site to oversee its removal, ordered illegally the deadline and have a plebiscite constructed billboards be removed after several structures of this type were toppled. before Jan. 15,” Executive Secretary See CONSTITUTION page 7 Facts revealed about over the counter medication: You have a healthy choice! In light of recent violent events, we 2) Acetaminophen (Tylenol) ingestion are all thinking about what is important to us accounts for 12% of all patients hospitalised and what our priorities are. As the people with drug overdoses and accounts for 40% and the city heal we wonder about how we of patients with acute liver failure. can improve on those priorities. The reason the body gives the If you ask people what their top signal for pain is because something in your priority in life is the majority will tell you their current lifestyle is causing stress on your health is their top priority and that means that body and your body cannot deal with that is the area that we should be spending our stress and your spine moves out of energy on to cherish and to improve. alignment to compensate. This could happen However it is also known that people that because of sitting for long periods of time, their health for granted and unless we are car accidents, sports related injuries, mental forced by some unfortunate crisis we really stress, worries etc… If the root of the do not do much to improve it. The statistics problem / pain is not addressed, the problem reveal that 1 out of 3 people die of cancer, 1 grows bigger and worsens and you can out of 3 die of heart attack and the other progress into later stages of disease such as third die of the treatment for these diseases. arthritis. Personally, I had the misfortune of losing my mother to cancer and my father to If you’re tired of suffering from anything heart attack. If I knew what I know now that mentioned in this article, please call us right these diseases are 100% preventable, things now. We are offering you a special price for would have been different for my parents. your initial consultation; normally $210.00 will be offered to you at $45.00. ACT NOW As we get on with our busy lives, our bodies this offer is only valid for a very limited time. try to tell us when something is not right and the body eventually perceives those Further care is very affordable and you’ll be messages as pain. That pain can manifest happy to know that I have affordable family itself in numerous ways, at various levels of plans. You can call Dr. Goel at DECARIE intensity such as back pain, insomnia, SQUARE FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC (located at asthma and fatigue. This is how our bodies 6900 Decarie Blvd #340 , near Winners). communicate with us. Most people think that Our phone number is: 514-344-6118. is bad and they try to take painkillers to ease their pain and solve the problem. -Dr. Sima Goel, chiropractor, D.C. Here’s what the latest research on drugs reveals: 1) People who take analgesic drugs When winter comes, frequently are at an increased risk of developing end-stage renal disease spring is not far behind.

www.filipinostar.org 4 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 place among QLP members and within always given a major place to its standing of Immigration and Cultural Communities, There are many other interesting and Quebec society » committees, composed of active party Mme Lise Thériault, if she has been made urgent issues raised but as usual, there is no Since its founding in the 1970s, the members who have dedicated themselves to aware of the problems of live-in caregivers. time to have the full answers to the questions Quebec Liberal Party’s Commission on moving Quebec forward. She replied that there were already some except to say that they would be brought up in Cultural Communities has played a major role During the open question period, many representations made and that she would the deliberations of the party when the time in the task of finding appropriate solutions for people lined up in front of the microphone to have one of her assistants, Viviane Moreno, comes for policy deliberations. the problems involved in fostering Quebec’s pose questions to the panelists. Zenaida call her to provide more details about the development. The Quebec Liberal Party has Kharroubi made an attempt to ask the Minister progress being made in this dossier.

Hon. Lawrence Bergman, Minister of Revenue, poses with Zenaida Kharroubi, and his Salve Desprez, Riza Esmeralda, Zenaida Kharroubi with the Quebec Premier political assistant, during the QLP’s Sector conferences with cultural communities. Jean Charest before the conference began.

Marvin Rotrand, introducing all the members of the Intercultural Commission which is composed of 10 members, 1 vacancy at present. GILMORE INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE ALUMNI YEARBOOK 2006 Name:______Laging Handa Scout Group Commissioner made a preentation on behalf of the group and Course: ______Year______submitted a budget but pointed out the most immediate need is a venue for Scouts. Address: ______From Page 1 Intercultural community will help the Commission ______establish its priorities and work plan for to the Commission. Some of the 2007. Mr. Rotrand said that he is community organizations that made Telephone:______Fax No.: ______certain the Commission would presentations were: the Montreal E-Mail: ______appreciate hearing of the community Marquis, the Philippine Folk Art plans so that it can assure a successful Present occupation : ______Society, Laging Handa Scout Group, cooperation between the association Business or company name: ______Jamaican Association, CDN Residents and the Borough and its services Association and other groups Future plans or goals: ______This is certainly not only the representing other ethnic ______time that the Commission will meet communities. with the community. Other types of ______It is necessary to register a cooperation, particularly with regards Favorite motto or quotations:______few minutes before the meeting is to the twinning agreement with Manila ______called to order. Organizations can will also be tackled in the near future. make an oral presentation or may table Please send this form with your ID size photo to: Gilmore International Information is expected to be a written brief and take a few moments College, 4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse, Montreal H3W 1X3 released from Mr. Rotrand’s office. to explain it. The dialogue with the no later than November 15, 2006. F. FARHAT LUNETTERIE • Guess 10% off • Easy-Clip For Students • Versace & Seniors • and many more designer rands Eye examination on site Bring this ad to get 10% discount. 5540 Cote des Neiges (cor. St. Kevin) 514-340-0135 1274 Mount Royal East 514-527-8201

www.filipinostar.org October 2006 The North American Filipino Star 5 Gilmore Poll Education raises the bar but lowers In reaching out to the community, Gilmore International College must have an the barriers to a rewarding career. idea on how people perceive the role of the school - how it should develop its priorities and services to the people who enroll in the different programs. Please clip this survey Enroll now at Gilmore College. form and send it to the address given on the advertisement beside this. Call 514-485-7861 1. Are you interested in any of the We promote educational to register by appointment Step up and join the programs being offered now? leadership and caring attitude in trade professionals - Yes No Courses the health care profession. We • PSW (PAB) or Nursing Aid Earn your C.I.T.P. title. believe that knowledge is critical 2. If yes, please indicate • Early Childhood Education Assistant • Medical Assistant ______to take the lead in global • Legal/Administrative Office Assistant If no, please explain citizenship. • Office Technology ______• Accounting & Bookkeeping ______• Micro-computers ______• Keyboarding, 2. Do you have a prior knowledge of • Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, Powerpoint, Gilmore as a Filipino-owned private school? Accpac Simply Yes No • Accounting/Bookkeeping • Languages - English, French, Spanish, 3. If yes, please indicate source of Mandarin, Filipino language (Tagalog) • Human Resources Development C.I.T.P. - information. (customized) Certified International Trade Professional ______• Leadership Training Seminars 4. Do you want to support Gilmore • Seminars - Writing, Inter-cultural The global economy needs trade International College in its educational Communication professionals who will put your business mission? in the international arena. Yes No

5. Please explain either answer in International Trade Program order to guide the College’s administration on • Global Entrepreneurship the area of improvement needed. • International Marketing ______• International Trade Finance ______• International Trade Logistics ______• International Market Entry & ______Distribution ______Personal Support Worker (PSW) • International Marketing Gilmore College Research 6. When do you plan to enroll in the has an intensive comprehensive training • Legal Aspects of International Office Assistant current programs being offered? program in Montreal for personal support Trade workers (nursing aides).Graduates have • International Trade Management a 100% job opportunity as there is an Now • An Introduction to the Cultural increasing demand for health care Aspects of International Trade workers. Winter 2007 We offer flexible schedules and budget FORUM FOR FORUM POUR LA FORMATION INTERNATIONALTRADE EN COMMERCE payment plans. TRAINING INTERNATIONAL Fall 2007 Foreign students are welcome. FITT Weekdays - 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM Other date Evenings - 6:00 to 9:00 PM Gilmore College is an accredited delivery partner 7. What, in your opinion, should be Weekends - 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM of FITT (Forum for International Trade Training) the most important function that a school Daycare Assistant should focus on? (Please use additional page A private college founded in 1989 if necessary) ______GILMORE (INTERNATIONAL) COLLEGE Our courses are recognized by: ______4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse (5th Fl.) Montreal, Quebec H3W 1X3 (Snowdon Metro) (Please feel free to use additional sheets for Tel.: 514-485-7861 Fax: 514-485-3076 your replies . Thank you.) E-Mail: [email protected] www.gilmorecollege.com New York / Woodbury 3-Day Tour Depature: December 26, 2006

$158 (QUAD) and UP Please contact: Gilmore College 4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse, Montreal Telephone: 514-485-7861 Concord Tours & Travel Associated with Concord Tours & Travel 1071 St. Urbain R 06 Tel. 514-876-1680

www.filipinostar.org 6 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 Montrealer receives award as one of the 10 Global outstanding Flipino-Canadians in Toronto Perspectives Philippine Association of Montreal & Suburb (FAMAS). With the depth of his love for the Filipino culture and tradition, he founded the Philippine Dance Theater of Montreal in 1973. He developed and discovered talents for his dance troupe and began performing in various cultural functions around Montreal most notably during the 1976 Montreal Olympics. The group was also invited to perform during Canada Day and in Man and His World. In 1980, he choreographed the Bb. Pilipinas Canada Beauty Pageant which was Isacc T. Goodine held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Montreal, “We all know the positive contributions of immigration to our Quebec. culture, our economy, and our society as a whole. We must He was one of the founding officers of integrate immigrants more quickly and more efficiently, yet we the Federation of Filipino Canadian still haven’t achieved that goal.”…Isabelle Hudson, President Associations of Quebec. While he was with and CEO, Montreal Board of Trade. Albert Gutierrez the Federation he introduced and Last September 30, 2006, the Binibining choreographed the very first College, in Montreal. In October 2004, I had the “Why must we continue to stress the Pilipinas of the World Beauty Pageant held debutante/cottilon Ball in Montreal which was pleasure to present a certificate of appreciation to importance of immigration? their annual awards night in the International Ms. Kharroubi in recognition of her extraordinary held at the Sheraton Centre Hotel. We, at the Filipino Star, are in complete Plaza Hotel in Toronto. One of the ten From 1988 to 1990, he served as a agreement with Isabelle Hudson who says that the contributions to community unity and leadership. The citation reads as follows: outstanding Filipino-Canadians awarded is member of the board of directors with the Board of Trade is proud to contribute to this cause from Montreal, Mr. Alberto Gutierrez, through its active participation in Quebec’s With the experience of the past 17 years to Philippine Folk Arts Society of Quebec where chairman of the Kalinangan Dance Troupe. Intercultural Week and that she is “convinced that, “As the incumbent Chair of Human Relations, he directed the debutantes’ ball held at the together, we will succeed not only in accelerating within the World Academy of Letters. I am A native of Taal, Batangas, Philippines, Chateau Champlain. the employment integration of new arrivals but also delighted to present this award to Zenaida Albert graduated from Lyceum of the He was a member of the board of in ensuring their long-term integration in our Ferry-Kharroubi. Once an immigrant herself, Philippines, Manila with a bachelor of science directors of the Association of Oriental society and, in particular, our diversified and she exemplifies achievement of unity in degree in Foreign Service and first worked Cultures of Montreal and also served as a thriving job market.” diversity within international society. As an with FBA Pharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of member of the Canadian Folk Art Council of For the past few months I have been referring, inspirational teacher, publisher, and Bayer Leverkusen, Germany. He was also Canada. in this column, to issues related to immigration and community leader, she has guided many young employed as an Administrative Assistant to the need to educate Canadians to the opportunities adult immigrants through their transition to the Vice President of the Bancom From Page 3 MAKATI MAYOR that are open to attract immigrants who will Canadian society. I am thrilled that this Development Corporation, a subsidiary of contribute to our mutual well being and help honorary certificate will be added to a list of Bankers’ Trust, New York. In his desire to Muslim rebel group in the southern promote a more peaceful world by sharing in honors, giving her the recognition she Philippines prosperity. This can only be achieved when we broaden his horizon and seek new adventures, deserves.” Security forces are on maximum realize that there can be unity in diversity. Last …Isaac Thomas Goodine, he immigrated to Canada in 1971. month’s issue pointed out that the “New Canadian Chair of Human Relations, World Academy of Upon arrival in Montreal, he got involved alert in the south after a series of bomb Government” has engaged the Association of Letters with the Filipino community. He was elected blasts in five urban centres this month. Canadian Community Colleges to implement the as a member of the board of directors of the The blasts were blamed on Abu Sayyaf. Canadian Immigration Integration Project that will build upon, Gilmore International College is well a include field offices in the Philippines, China and placed to work with the Board of Trade and others India. The Pilot Project is under the auspices of to help integrate immigrants into the workforce as AAUUTTOO EECCOOLLEE Human Resources and Social Development, well to draw upon Alumni resources that include Canada, and its purpose is to provide counseling those who have gone through the trying efforts to services to facilitate smoother integration of adjust to a culture and environment that often CCOOOOLL immigrants into Canadian society and the seems uncaring and cold. Five years ago the workforce. It is aimed primarily at immigrants who unemployment rate for immigrants who had arrived have been selected for employment in Canada in the previous five years was 22 percent, DDRRIIVVIINNGG SSCCHHOOOOLL because of their job-skills and is part of the overall compared to 6 percent for people born in Canada scheme that accepts that there are significant gaps and even more troubling is the fact that when those 7370 Cote St. Luc Suite 118 in the Canadian labour market that can only be who were established for several years were filled by skilled workers from abroad. The success included with the more recent arrivals, the overall Montreal, Quebec H4W 1P9 of this pilot project will rely heavily on truthful unemployment rate for “immigrants” between the Tel.: 514-509-9390 Fax: 514-509-9389 information being shared openly so that the ages of 15 and 64 was at 12 percent. Associated process will be fully transparent. with this situation is a need to redouble efforts to However, much still need to be done to unlock cultural resources that immigrants bring educate and inform Canadians, as well as and to use vast talents that now lie dormant or SPECIAL OFFER Immigrants, on how they can work together more untapped within our diverse society. effectively to achieve mutual benefits. It is in that This situation can and must be improved by regard that we applaud the news that Emploi- finding new ways of doing things together. 12 COURSES $240, CD + Book Quebec is providing financial support for “speed- jobbing” sessions with Greater Montreal immigrants and employers. In addition, the Board Also included: of Trade is planning a trade fair giving community organizations working with immigrants an Car for exam opportunity to network, exchange information, and forge ties with members of the business Call Paul François 514-509-9390 community. As employers become increasingly aware of the importance and necessity of hiring immigrants, so too, will the necessity for inter-cultural and Free Pick Up from the Metro: specific on-the-job training be better understood, and then, the cost-effectiveness of investments for • Vendome this approach to human resource and social • Villa Maria development will be realized. In that regard Quebec has shown foresight in announcing a program • Cote Ste-Catherine providing incentives for small and medium-sized • Cote des Neiges businesses to hire immigrants and members of visible minorities. • Plamondon It is with the foregoing in mind that I take this opportunity to congratulate Ms. Zenaida Ferry- Kharroube, on the occasion of celebrating 17 years of successful operation of Gilmore International www.filipinostar.org October 2006 The North American Filipino Star 7 who is concurrent NDCC chairman, From Page 2 MAKATI MAYOR Imelda Marcos wins one of many corruption cases said the typhoon destroyed 117,000 would abide by the decision of the houses, which is way above the houses October 6, 2006 floral scarf, told reporters Friday. courts. damaged by four typhoons that hit Former Philippines first lady Imelda A Marcos subordinate, former "We are for the rule of law and we Quezon province in 2004. Marcos wept after a court acquitted her human settlements deputy minister are awaiting a copy of the temporary "(We) would want to bring to higher of graft charges, though many more Conrado Benitez, was also acquitted. restraining order (injunction) and we level of consciousness the damage that cases against her are still pending. Imelda Marcos was chairman of will act accordingly," said presidential was caused by the typhoon so that we Marcos, 76, broke down in tears the foundation while Benitez was its spokesman Ignacio Bunye. can ask our compatriots, Filipino when the verdict was read in the president when it did work for the Hundreds of people have turned citizens and the business community in special anti-corruption court known as human settlements ministry in 1977. up outside Binay's office buildings to the Philippines and the international the Sandiganbayan. Imelda Marcos called on President show their support for the lawyer and community to help in giving materials Marine colonel reservist. and tools to people in order to repair The court ruling delaying the their houses," said Cruz. suspension for 60 days looks to have Cruz wrote to Nileema Noble, the averted a potential political crisis and United Nations resident coordinator the prospect of mass street protests and UN Development Project resident threatened by Binay supporters, who coordination, seeking similar had vowed to protect their mayor. assistance, which the international Earlier Thursday, Bunye said the body has extended in past calamities. government was working to "exhaust all "These (damages) present a fair and even handed means" to defuse challenge for the Philippine the crisis. Government as we at the NDCC begin "We appeal for calm and sobriety to map out rehabilitation plans. A and urge all concerned not to politicize particular challenge is how to address this issue or use it for media the suffering brought about by the total grandstanding," Bunye said. destruction of some 117,000 houses," Opposition figures, including Cruz told Noble. former president Corazon Aquino, have "For this reason, the Philippine expressed their support for Binay, and Government is appealing once again warned that the crisis could explode for international assistance. Recalling into wider unrest on the streets if he the timely and valuable assistance was forcibly evicted by police. extended by the UN and international Appointed mayor by Aquino in agencies during the flashfloods of Former first lady Imelda Marcos of the Philippines speaks with reporters outside a courtroom 1986, Binay has steadily built Makati November/December 2004 (Quezon after an anti-graft court's ruling finding her innocent of corruption in one of dozens of civil and into one of the wealthiest cities in the flooding) and the Guinsaugon, criminal cases against her in Quezon City, north of Manila, October 6, 2006 Philippines, with revenues last year in Southern Leyte landslide of February excess of 6.66 billion pesos (133 million 2006, we trust that the same help shall The court ruled that her presence Gloria Arroyo to order a government dollars). be forthcoming," Cruz added in the in 1977 on the board of a non-profit audit of the funds of the foundation, He mouths a populist line and is letter. foundation that did consultancy work which was taken over by the known to be close to urban poor The Ginsaugon landslide has left at for the now defunct human settlements government after the fall of the Marcos communities living in the shadow of least 140 people dead and close to ministry, which she headed, did not regime. Makati's skyscrapers. 1,000 others missing. The landslide constitute corruption. She alleged its original funds of The mayor is also a staunch ally of was trigged by a continuous heavy The graft case is one of more than 400 million pesos (eight million dollars) deposed president Joseph Estrada, downpour, burying the entire village, 500 civil and criminal suits filed against have been dissipated by managers who is under house arrest while being including an elementary school the former first family and the estate of appointed by subsequent tried for corruption after he was ousted building. the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos, governments. by a popular revolt in 2001 and Senator Richard Gordon, chairman who was toppled in a bloodless coup She meanwhile dismissed replaced by Arroyo. a of the Philippine National Red Cross in 1986. suggestions that her acquittal was part (PNRC), said the damage caused by The Marcoses are accused of of a deal with the Arroyo government, Milenyo was bigger compared to the embezzling up to 10 billion dollars from which has offered to settle the From Page 3 TYPHOON damages incurred from the Quezon state coffers during their 20 years in hundreds of cases against the Rabonza said the typhoon has flashfloods and the Guinsaugon power. Marcoses out of court. affected at least 1.02 million people or landslide combined. Typhoon Milenyo "I thank the Lord for my acquittal "I'm cordial to everybody. I have 825,493 families in the regions. Of the is the strongest to hit the Philippines and the vindication of the Technology always said that I don't want a Resource Center Inc., a truly compromise. I wanted a legal number, Rabonza said 2,524 families or capital in a decade a 15,711 persons are still housed in humanitarian and compassionate resolution because I believe in the evacuation centers. program, for the Filipino people," the courage and integrity of our courts," Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz, widow, in a purple dress and a silk she said. a WWookk && TThhéé RReessttaauurraanntt 6254 Cote des Neiges (near Kent) Need Money? Montreal, QC Telephone: 514-731-2184 Do you have a full time job? Lunch Special The best food and the $4.60 tax included lowest prices in town! 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www.filipinostar.org 8 The North American Filipino Star October 2006

Opinion-Ed summer has also been axed, as has the Youth CCoommmmuunniittyy NNeewwss International Internship Program, which gives September 27, 2006 young people the chance gain international work The successful activity resulted in one Arellano High Reunion Conservative Cuts Hurt experience and make our country more dynamic hundred and five (105) new passports issued, and prosperous in the decades to come. The Arellano (Public) High School notarization of sixty-four (64) documents, Average Canadians The Harper government also has plans Class 1957 will celebrate its Golden Jubilee in issuance of twenty (20) fingerprint forms for By: The Honourable John McCallum, Liberal to eliminate the $11 million First Nations and Inuit February 2007 in Manila. The U.S.-Canada National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) clearances, Official Opposition Critic for Finance Tobacco Control Strategy, despite the fact that group of Class ‘57 is in full gear preparing for four (4) visa applications, four (4) Balikbayan Canada is enjoying a time of cancer is quickly becoming the number one cause stamps, as well as seven (7) Oaths of Allegiance the golden jubilee, and will have its third unparalleled prosperity. Thanks to 13 years of of death among First Nations people and the Inuit. for the reacquisition/retention of Philippine Liberal government, our country’s debt is under The list of cuts goes on and on: $18 meeting this year on September 30 at the citizenship. control, our economic growth is high and for the million cut from adult literacy programs, $45 residence of Servodeo Reyes in Oxnard, A much-awaited and well-appreciated ninth year in a row, the Government of Canada has million cut from affordable housing initiatives, and California. service by the Filipino community in Quebec, the reported a near-record surplus. $39 million cut from regional economic Arellano (Public) High School is the consular outreach program is a regular project of But despite our prosperity, this week, the development programs that create jobs where former Manila North High School of the pre- the Embassy aimed at serving the consular needs Conservative government chose to slash $1 billion they’re needed most. World War II era. It is located on Teodora of kababayans, primarily caregivers, who only in federal funding to Canada’s social programs. If you look closely you can see a pattern Alonzo Street in Santa Cruz, Manila. The have weekends to attend to the renewal of their These mean-spirited cuts targeted our most emerging. The Harper government’s funding cuts graduating class of 1957 had 1500 students. passports and other consular needs. vulnerable and marginalized citizens: low-income only seem to target people who don’t tend to vote The jubilarians’ intended legacy to their alma The team assisted applicants in families, Aboriginal Canadians, immigrants, youth, Conservative anyways. In fact, the only minority renewing their passports, taking of fingerprints for mater is a new stage in the inner court. the disabled and the illiterate. groups the Conservatives seem to be interested in NBI clearances, as well as with various notarial Treasury Board President John Baird supporting is the minority of Canadians who The weeklong celebration for Class services. Members of the team also fielded told us the cuts were necessary in the name of supported them in the last election. ’57 will start on January 28, 2007, with a queries from the public regarding the reacquisition “responsible spending.” Finance Minister Jim While the Conservatives continually dinner party at the Canyon Woods Resort in or retention of Philippine citizenship, the Flaherty told us that these cuts were essential so claim to be standing up for Canada, the truth is Tagaytay, to be hosted by Herman and Lita Balikbayan program, as well as other programs of that the government could give Canadians “value they are only interested in standing up for those Gamboa. Lita Eugenio-Gamboa is the the Philippine Government. for money.” But in reality, the only thing these Mike who support their narrow policies: their core President of the Class ‘57 Alumni Association. The team was headed by Consul Harris hold-over ministers have done for average constituency of voters. The other activities planned for the week are General Joseph Gerard B. Angeles, with Consul Canadians is to raise their income taxes while Through this latest round of spending excursion to Villa Escudero in Tiaong, Quezon, Shirley E. Banquicio, Vice Consul Rhenita B. cutting their social programs. cuts, the Harper government has sent a message or Corregidor, and a city tour of Binondo, Rodriguez, Mrs. Angela R. Conag, Mr. Al E. That doesn’t sound much like value for to Canadians: if you don’t fit the profile of a Rosales, Mrs. Elizabeth A. Alberto and Mrs. Manila. money to me. potential Conservative voter, you are out of luck. Josephine L. Gonato. They were assisted by Status of Women Canada will now have For more information: The celebration will culminate with a officers of the Philippine Association of Montreal 40 percent less money to help bridge the gender David Hurl general homecoming dinner at a hotel in and Suburbs, Inc. (FAMAS). gap so that all women –regardless of income or Office of John McCallum Makati on February 4. The Most Distinguished During the consular clinic, the ethnicity –can fully participate in Canada’s labour (613) 996-3374 Alumnus and the Most Outstanding Golden team likewise took the opportunity to invite force. Jubilarian will be announced at the grand qualified Filipinos who have not registered The Youth Employment Strategy, which reunion. Certificates of Recognition will be as overseas absentee voters (OAV) to do helped 50,000 young people find work this past awarded as well. so before the deadline for OAV Erlinda Waddell-Taylor and Lucille registration, to enable them to participate in the May 2007 national elections. Po-Deniega, coordinators for the U.S.-Canada The Embassy team will return to Group, are in continuous search for Class ’57 Montreal on Sunday, 26 November 2006, members in the United States and Canada, so that for its final bimonthly consular outreach for no alumni will miss this once-in-a-lifetime golden the year. event. For update on the Arellano Class ‘57 Golden Jubilee, please contact Linda at (626)-284-9553 or Lucille at (949) 587- 1394.Please contact Nora Espiritu 514-932- 8945. Press Release No. 19-2006 25 September 2006 Dr. Jesus Pelausa cracking jokes and making everyone laugh at his birthday party,last You are invited to join us in PHILIPPINE EMBASSY IN October 15, 2006 at Bill Wong Restaurant. our 17th anniversary and OTTAWA REACHES OUT graduation ceremony on ANEW Saturday, October 28, TO FILIPINOS IN at Ruby Rouge Restaurant MONTREAL, QUEBEC 1008 Clark St. Ambassador Jose S. Brillantes sent a team from the Philippine Embassy to Montreal, Montreal (Chinatown) Quebec, on Sunday, 24 September, to conduct another consular outreach program at the Reserve and pick up your Philippine Centre on Van Horne Avenue. Hundreds of Filipinos, Filipino- tickets by calling Canadians and Canadians in Montreal and nearby 514-485-7861 cities in the province of Quebec flocked to the Embassy’s ‘passport-on-wheels’ program yesterday to avail themselves of the consular Deadline: October 26, 2006 services offered by a team from the Embassy. The celebrant dances with his wife to open the dance during his birthday party.

www.filipinostar.org October 2006 The North American Filipino Star 9 particular date, July 1969, when I was then little prayer booklet with her signature in it, a preparing to leave the Philippines, to fly to Mother of perpetual help amulet and again a Historically Seattle Washington USA, holding a visitors visa as bunch of pictures neatly placed in a nicely my passport. I was then very busy attending to decorated plastic bag. Yes, more pictures, Filipino yours my flight and with my luggage in my bedroom. costumes, to my surprise a photo of Dr. Jose My mother came in and told me to bring a copy Rizal, Gen. Douglas MacArthur, Manuel Quezon,

Lina V. Fernandez

A Blast from the Past A picture, they say, is worth a thousand words Miss Felicidad Rosales and a lifetime of memories, and we all tend to ure. My great mistake was that I had been so believe it. But we must be careful to define what excited giving away my memorable pictures for we mean by “worth.” How many words are there people to see and forgot to save a copy for in a picture? Who took the picture and why ? myself. It is always best to save the most

of our family pictures and other pictures, etc. were included. Before I could say anything , worthwhile remembering. Since I was so eager she looked me straight in the eye “Where ever and still am I very nervous about my first flight you go or where ever you may be, you must keep to a far away country I hardly knew, and had in mind that you are still a Filipino, heart and soul only read in books and saw in pictures, my answer was; “Mama, those pictures are black

The Way We Were. The date of the picture was taken in the early ‘80s during the Filipino Canadian Friendship Society of Quebec Anniversary party. Mrs. Fely R. Cariño was the Founder and first President. Photo shows from left: Mrs. Estela Lim, Dr. Emilo Lim, Dr. Jaime Cariño, Fely R. Cariño, Puring de la Cruz and Almario Bamba. What makes this picture worth remembering? I asked Fely for a picture from the past and she gave me this photo above. Analyzing the worth of this picture, it dawned to me that this picture has a deep meaning to Fely as well as Estela. memorable photos to look back and reminisce the Where was the picture taken and how it was Miss Felicidad Rosales past specially when it comes to family pictures. taken , who loved the picture and who hated it. UNIVERSITY OF MANILA (UM) Love it or hate it , every picture tells a story, it Student Leader Delegate - 1955 recalls history and brings out the image of the Society Editor of UM Official Organ way we were. Photographs are the ultimate “The Campus Leader”, testament of the past. Even a simple snapshot can University of Manila’s Singing Sweetheart ometimes trigger a host of memories. One author wrote, “ And through stories of and family comes first. My prayers will always holidays long past, places now completely protect you, take care, I love you. I hugged and changed and people once young but now gray- Memories Of You. Photo - Lina and Tony kissed my beloved Mother goodbye. haired and wrinkled, families connect to the past Fernandez. Our happy years together in Seattle, Knowing my mother, quite well, I’d say she was through pictures, memorabilia’s and historical Washington, USA. Tony is the one person I will a character. As an English, music and history facts that weave a connection between the never forget for the rest of my life. We were teacher she was a fair disciplinarian. Off course, I generations.” together for almost 35 years. Two years ago in won’t forget my l dear Father, who was a great Today with families now separated and 2004, my husband joined his parents and my Dad and a gentleman. As a Government employee parents in heaven. scattered around the globe most of them auditor, he also audits his family’s expenses pretty looking for greener pastures as well as for and white and looks very old, I don’t need old well. economic reasons or education that it can be pictures, I can have better and beautiful colored Little did I know that this trip to Seattle difficult to preserve these unique pictures and pictures in America.” My Mother just gave me a Washington, USA, was a stepping stone for me to stories. But in this day of computer imaging sweet and loving smile, but unknowingly, she enter Canada. Three years after staying in Seattle, a little preparations, a few tools and the desire to already had sneak some pictures and some and still on a student visa , my brother Eddie create a lasting legacy, anyone can gather and Tony P. Fernandez Filipino costumes inside one of my luggage. Valdez, a nurse by profession, was able to sponsor record their own precious memoirs and diaries.. Lyceum University Manila Student Leader We had to drive to Manila from Baguio City me as a relative. Upon receipt of my Canadian Speaking of Pictures, I think it would be best Delegate 1955; Spanish Writer - Student to catch my 3:00 pm flight. When my father, visa, I dropped all my school subjects, I bid to write the names, date and place at the back of Council, Spanish to English Translator mother and some members of my family and goodbye to my dear aunt Mary, my Uncle, the photos and a little info. It comes in handy for University Publications and Library friends were at the Manila International Airport, to cousins, my teachers and all my friends then future references. There was a times when I have Spanish Reporter, El Debate bid me good bye, and while I was about to board hurried to the airport and scheduled a flight to to call long distance and asked the person at the my 3:00 pm flight, my mother was the last in line I have a story to tell you. It is back in those other end of the line, to help me identify the pict to kiss me goodbye. She hurriedly handed me a See page 18 Blast from the Past Cuisineyears gone Santé by. I still can clearly remember that international

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www.filipinostar.org 10 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 Serves 4 black fungus and ginger. Boil again. Parboil Sangkap Panimpla for 10 minutes. Put in lean pork and angled konting black fungus luffa. Parboil until cooked. Season with salt. 1 lb patola Serve. 8 oz karne ng baboy 1 kutsarang nahiwang luya 1 kutsaritang Philippine Cusine toyo (light) 1/2 kutsaritang asukal 1 kutsaritang arina konting paminta

Ingredients Seasonings 2. In a 2-quart stainless steel or porcelain Pork Dinuguan Recipe saucepan heat oil and saute garlic and black fungus pinch onions for a few minutes. Add pork liver angled luffa 1 lb patis salt and MSG. Saute for 5 minutes lean pork 8 oz more. shredded ginger 1 tbsp light soy 1 tsp Black Fungus sugar 1/2 tsp 3. Add vinegar and bring to a boil without cornflour 1 tsp stirring. Lower heat and simmer uncovered pepper pinch until most of the liquid has evaporated. Pamamaraan 4. Add broth. Simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in blood and sugar; cook until thick stirring 1. Ibabad ang black fungus. Gutay-gutayin. occasionally to avoid curdling. Ilublob sa kumukulong tubig at hugasan sa Angled Lufta malamig na tubig. This dish is so named bacause the sauce is 2. Hugasan ang karne ng baboy at hiwain. made with the blood of a freshly-slaughtered 5. Add hot banana peppers and oregano and Ibabad sa seasonings nang 20 minuto. pig. tropical island destinationsmore recipes cook 5 minutes more. Serve hot. Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 50 minutes 3. Hugasan ang angled luffa. Hiwain nang palihis at makapal. Yield: 4 Servings Sopas na may patola 4. Magpakulo ng tbig. Ilagay ang black fungus at luya. Pakuluan sa mataas na init 1 lb Pork diced 1 ts Salt (Soup with angled lufta) nang 10 minuto. Ilagay ang baboy at angled 2 tb Oil 1/4 ts MSG (optional) luffa. Ituloy ang pagpapakulo hanggang 2 Cloves garlic minced 1 1/2 c Broth maluto. Lagyan ng asin. Ihain. 1 Onion diced 1 c Frozen pigs blood PORK 1/4 lb Pork liver diced 2 ts Sugar Method 1/2 c Vinegar 3 Hot banana peppers 2 tb Patis (fish sauce) 1/4 ts Oregano 1. Soak black fungus well. Tear into (optional) flowerets. Scald and rinse in cold water. 2. Wash lean pork and slice. Marinade with 1. Cover pork with water and simmer for 30 seasonings for 20 minutes. minutes. Remove from broth and dice. Save 3. Peel and clean angled luffa. Cut 1-1/2 cups of broth. diagonally into thick pieces. 4. Bring 4 cups of water to the boil. Add Shredded ginger The North American Filipino Star Classified Ads ADVERTISING COMPUTERS GARAGE FOR OFFICE EQUIPMENT First 3 lines • Business Data Base RENT 9.99 $1.50 per extra line Canon bubble jet, for 3 paper sizes, (maximum 4 words a line, font size 10 • Repairs & Trouble Shooting Garage, infront of Jewsih color, or black and white, office • Web Page Design General Hospital, $100/month furniture, etc. Call 514-485-7861 Classified Advertising- cheapest way to Call Joseph - 514-651-9745 advertise! Call 514-793-2524 Call 514-485-7861 514-630-9701 ext. 273 Ads must be prepaid. Send text via E-Mail ROOM FOR RENT to: [email protected] DAY CARE COURSE JANITOR WANTED or Fax: 514-485-3076 lLive-in janitor, apartment building, Big Room in an upper free apartment, in Lachhine duplex, quiet, bright, clean, APARTMENT FOR RENT Tel. 514-582-8865 heated, newly painted, share 4 1/2, 3 1/2 in LACHINE, duplex with 2 other ladies electric heating, hardwood floors, $300 /month, non-smoker Early childhood education courses to LECHON washer and dryer outlets, renovated, prepare you to work with children’s centers, Call 514-485-7861 Now special price, day care or your own home day care BigD's Lechon, telephone Call 514-582-8865 business. Call : 514-485-7861 number (514) 426-9088 or METRO COTE VERTU, www.bigd-lechon.com. Furnished room for rent in Centre 2000 DRIVING private house for non-smoker, Professional Training Institute MOVING woman $280 monthly, Specials for Summer Quebec certified driving instructor everything included Anywhere in Canada Courses offered: with 11 years experience in giving 514-747-0880 Contact Joseph - 514-651-9745 • Dental Assistant driving lessons. Exam car vailable • Dental Secretary Toton 514-969-9622 514-489-6968, ext. 113 • Pharmacy Assistant TUTORIAL • Nursing Aide • Daycare Provider NURSING AID • Mathematics • Security Agent DRIVING LESSONS Get your professional training from a • French Course (conversation) * Car available for EXAM • French Info:Call 514-342-1000 * 1 hour practice only $25 (tax incl.) reputable school, good references, • Physics * Many examples of first time success Enroll now for courses starting in 4950 Queen Mary Rd. Suite 351 • Science (Front of Snowdon Metro) * packages available January 2007 - flexible schedules MR. KHALIL (514) 965-0903 and payment, Call 514-485-7861 514-485-7861

www.filipinostar.org October 2006 The North American Filipino Star 11 U.S. on international narcotics control memory. And according to Jennifer Wilkins, a other illnesses are still effective and in wide measures while neither supporting terrorism nutritional scientist in Cornell University’s Life use today. nor violating human rights. Sciences department, foods at peak ripeness Those looking to learn how to home can While the U.S. has been the leader in offer superior nutritional advantages, even should consult the U.S. Department of encouraging debt-for-nature swaps, other when preserved. She cites the example of Agriculture’s “Complete Guide to Home developed countries are starting to get in on the Vitamin C content in tomatoes increasing when Canning,” available free online. The guide act as well. Germany has forgiven tens of the vegetables are allowed to fully ripen on the details the principles of home canning as well millions of Euros owed it by the governments of vine. as how to select, prepare and can a variety of Indonesia and Bolivia, among others, for the Yet another benefit of home canning is foods. The website HomeCanning.com also benefit of the environment. And last June, self-reliance. “If there is a natural disaster and offers a wealth of information as well as lots of France joined the fray by forgiving $25 million supplies are short, you will have your own recipes for canning fruits, vegetables and in debt from Cameroon in the name of food,” says master gardener and home canner meats. The site is produced by Jarden Home protecting still pristine stretches of the Congo Connie Densmore, who teaches an online Brands, one of the leading suppliers of home River Basin, the world's second largest tropical course in home canning through the canning jars and equipment. Some other Earth Talk forest after the Amazon. UniversalClass.com website. She adds that leading purveyors of home canning supplies Debt-for-nature deals have not all taken home canned foods can last for years without include the Canning Pantry and Home Canning Dear EarthTalk: What are so-called “debt-for- place without some controversy. According to refrigeration (especially useful if the power Supply and Specialties. nature swaps” and how do they work? the Uruguay-based World Rainforest goes out) while retaining the same taste as the -- Howard W., via e-mail Movement (WRM), last September Canada day they were harvested. For more hands-on instruction, would-be A debt-for-nature swap is an agreement by forgave $680,000 in debt from Honduras in Prior to the days of widespread use of food home canners should check out the University which a wealthier, developed nation like the exchange for that country’s establishment of preservatives and refrigeration, home canning of Georgia Cooperative Extension’s “So Easy United States forgives debt owed to it by a tree planting and forest conservation programs. was one of only a few ways to safely preserve to Preserve” video series. Eight shows, each developing country in exchange for a promise Arranged primarily within a debt-for-nature foods from decay at the hands of naturally 20 to 35 minutes long, contain the most up-to- to use some or all of the money instead to framework, Canada will actually get credit in occurring microorganisms. The home canning date recommendations for home canning, preserve critical environmental areas. Typically, the deal toward the greenhouse gas emissions techniques developed in the late 1800s to pickling and making jams and jellies. such deals are brokered by international non- reductions it promised under the international profit organizations like The Nature Kyoto Protocol. Says WRM, “The powerful CONTACTS: Canning Pantry, Conservancy or Conservation International, hand of industry is behind this project… this www.canningpantry.com; Home Canning which sometimes contribute additional funds to allows a major carbon dioxide-producing Supply & Specialties, provide grants to local community country…to be able to avoid implementing real www.homecanningsupply.com; “So Easy To organizations participating in the projects. measures to either reduce carbon emissions at Preserve,” www.uga.edu/setp; “Complete One of the largest debt-for-nature swaps to their source or to implement the conservation Guide to Home Canning,” date occurred just recently, in October 2006, of its own forests.” www.uga.edu/nchfp/publications/publications when the U.S. agreed to forgive $24.4 million in CONTACTS: Conservation International, _usda.html. debt from Guatemala to free up the money for www.conservation.org; The Nature GOT AN ENVIRONMENTAL QUESTION? Send use in forest conservation efforts there. The Conservancy, www.nature.org; World it to: EarthTalk, c/o E/The Environmental Nature Conservancy and Conservation Rainforest Movement, www.wrm.org.uy. Magazine, P.O. Box 5098, Westport, CT International were instrumental in putting that 06881; submit it at: deal together, and each committed $1 million Dear EarthTalk: My grandmother was a home www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/thisweek/, or toward Guatemalan conservation initiatives as canner, and I'm interested in getting involved e-mail: [email protected]. Read past well. A similar deal will allow Botswana to myself. Where do I learn about the benefits to columns at: repurpose $8.3 million in debt payments owed my health and to the environment? Home-canned foods like these tomatoes will last for www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/archives.php. years without refrigeration, while retaining the same taste to the U.S. for conservation and restoration of -- Sylvia Fragiband, Indianapolis, IN its tropical forests in the Okavango Delta and and vitamin content as the day they were harvested." For more than a century, home canning has (Getty Images) Chobe National Park regions. been a popular way to preserve and enjoy To date, the U.S. has arranged a dozen homegrown fruits and vegetables, not to prevent enzymes, mold, yeast and bacteria debt-for-nature swaps (one under President mention fresh-caught seafood and other from spoiling foods and causing botulism and Clinton and the rest under George W. Bush), delicacies. One of the key benefits of home forgiving $135 million worth of loans for canning is limiting exposure to the chemicals RESTAURANT conservation’s sake from not only Guatemala and pesticides used on most commercially and Botswana, but also Bangladesh, Belize, available produce and seafood. Also, most LA MAISON NEW KUM MON Colombia, El Salvador, Jamaica, Panama, commercially prepared spreads and sauces 5047 Henri Bourassa Est Paraguay, the Philippines and Peru. Under the contain added sugar, salt and preservatives 6565 Cote des Neiges, Montreal, terms of the Tropical Forest Conservation Act, Montréal, QC H1G 2S1 which are unnecessary in most diets and can QC (Corner Appleton) Tel.: (514) 322-3133, 322-3130 enacted in 1998, developing countries with a even be harmful for people suffering from tropical forest of global or regional significance, health problems like diabetes or hypertension. Bean Curd Seafood Soup Fish Maw Seafood Soup a democratically elected government and plans Also, by preserving produce when it is at 1/2 Crispy Chicken Baked Lobster with Ginger for economic reform are eligible for debt its peak of ripeness, home canners can indulge Salt and Pepper Pork Loin Seafood with Chinese forgiveness from the U.S. as long as they are in flavorful spreads and sauces all year long, Stuffed Bean Curd with Broccoli willing to undertake conservation efforts even if the backyard harvest is just a distant Shrimps Saltand Pepper Cuttle Fish accordingly. They also must cooperate with the Sauted Seasonal Vegetables Fried Sea Bass Fish Steamed Rice Steamed Rice $37.95 4 Persons $58.95 4 Persons

Bean Curd Soup Fish maw seafood soup 1/2 Crispy Chicken 2 Baked Lobsters with Ginger Shrimp Cake with Chinese Seafood with Eggplant in Hot Pot Broccoli Stuffed Bean Curd with Sweet and Sour Pork Shrimp Seafood with Bean Curd in Seafood with Chinese broccoli Hot Pot Fried Sea Bass Fish Salt and Pepper Squid House Fried Rice Fried Sea Bass Fish Special Fried Noodles Steamed Rice $125.95 $63.95 6 Persons 10 Persons FREE DELIVERY Minimum order of $10 514-733-6029 Delivery hours: 514-733-1067 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. For party menu, call Kenny

www.filipinostar.org 12 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 The North American Filipino Star Photo Gallery

Laging Handa Scouts group went on a fall camping trip last Friday, October 6 to Sunday, October 8, 2006 at Tamaracouta Scout Reserve. As can be seen, the weather was beautiful and the leaves are magnificently colorful. See Tagalog version of camping trip on page 23 by Scout Volunteer Anna May Tappan.

www.filipinostar.org October 2006 The North American Filipino Star 13

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Press conference at Rasa Restaurant TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE METROPOLIS 855 Decarie Blvd., St. Laurent Sunday, October 22 - 3:00 PM 14 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 HISTORY products are rice, corn tobacco, garlic, The natives of what is now La sugarcane and cassava. Grapes are TOURISM Union were already trading with the extensively grown in Bauang. The rich Japanese when the Spaniards came to Lingayan Gulf is the main fishing LA UNIONthe Philippines, the area of Agoo was ground. Cottage industries include then known as "Puerto de Japon". blanket-weaving, basketry, shellcraft, PROVINCE Captain Juan de Salcedo explored the pottery and furniture-making. La Union Situated on the northwestern coast region in 1572, followed by Augustinan is also well known for its basi-making of Luzon, La Union is the gateway to missionaries who founded the towns of industry, the Ilocano native wine made the Ilocos Region. With its strategic Balaoan, Bauang, and Agoo in the late from fermented sugarcane juice. location, the province has become the decades of the 16th century. business, education, and government The province was created on Points of interests in La Union center of the Ilocos. Not only is La March 2, 1850 out of towns then La Union's favored beaches Union the region’s center for trade but belonging to Ilcos Sur and Pangasinan. include Bauang Beach, the San also of religious devotees who flock to Luciano Almeda headed the provincial Fernando beach area and San Juan one of the country’s popular pilgrimage government for a time during the Beach which is known worldwide for destinations, especially during Lent. Philippine Revolution while General its year-round surfing waves Agoo, the oldest town of La Union, Manuel Tinio occupied San Fernando was once the site of the much in May 1898. After the battle in Aringay publicized divine visitations of the River on November 19, 1899, the Virgin Mary. The Agoo Apparition Site American troops took controll of the in San Antonio has established the province. town as a destination of choice for A civil government was established Marian devotees. Agoo comes alive in La Union in 1901. A year later, La most on Semana Santa, or the Holy Union ceded a narrow strip of land to Week, which is the week before Easter. Amburayan which later became a sub- Yearly, the townspeople bear witness to province of the old Mountain Province. ardent devotees relentlessly pulling life- The majority of the population are size statues depicting the 14 Stations of Ilocanos. Some Pangasinenses are the Cross along the processional roads found in the southern part of the in Agoo during the Good Friday province, while a substantial group of procession on Semana Santa. Chinese Filipinos are in San Fernando, But the province is not wanting of the commercial center. Ilocano is the natural attractions, thanks to predominant language of the people. seascapes that make it a watersports La Union has 20 municipalities which paradise. The surf fronting Monaliza in are subdivide into 576 barangays. The Urbiztondo, San Juan is the best site Northern towns of Sudipen, Bangar, for board surfing from November to Luna, Balaoan, Santol, San Gabriel, February; other good sites are in Baonatan, San Juan and San Fernando Carlatan and Wallace in San Fernando. comprise the First District. Belonging to Scuba diving is ideal in Fagg Reef, the Second District are Bagulin, which is adorned by sharks, barracuda, Naguilian, Burgos, Bauang, Caba, sea snakes, Moray eels, and other Aringay, Agoo, Tubao, Sto. Tomas, friendly sea creatures, and Research Rosario and Pugo. San Fernando is Reef, which is endowed with several moving forward to become a tunnels, caverns, and crevices. component city.

One of the beaches in the San Fernando area

Bacsil Ridge Luna Watchtower Located 9 kilometers northeast of San This rotund structure built along the Fernando town proper through the San shore in Luna during the pre-Spanish Fernando-Bagulin Road, Bacsil Ridge time was used as lookout point for was the last bastion of the retreating impending attacks by pirates. Japanese Imperial Army in the Learn French province. Later, the Ridge constituted the fast and easy way the East Flank of the 121st Infantry of the United States Armed Forces in the Register now at Agoo Basilica, La Union - It enshrines the miraculous image of Our Lady of Charity. This Philippines, Northern Luzon (USAFIP, imposing structure of Mexican-Baroque architecture is the venue of religious rites, foremost NL) during the Liberation in 1945. Gilmore International of which is the Semana Santa. Filipino-Chinese Pagoda College La Union has predominantly hilly From its inception as a province up to The Macho Temple at San Fernando is 514-485-7861 terrain which gradually rises eastward the Second World War, La Union believed to be the only one built with from the shore.The western border is a experienced transformations in the five gates. It enshrines the image of the coastal plain of raised coral and alluvia socio-cultural and politico-economic Virgin of Caysasay, the patroness of the (sand or clay deposited by flowing aspects. After the War, rehabilitation Filipino-Chinese residents. water) overlaying older sediments. East and reconstruction were done, Museo de La Union of this palin are rolling hills parallel to eventually propelling the province as Located at the Provincial Capitol the coast covering a wide portion of the the center of commerce and trade and ground in San Fernando, the Museum central area. The province has two the administrative center of Region I. showcases archeological finds in La pronounced seasons - dry from The main sources of livelighood Union of the Pre-Spanish period. November to April and from May to are farming and fishing. The main October. www.filipinostar.org October 2006 The North American Filipino Star 15 ENJOY YOUR CHRISTMAS BREAK Reserve now with Gilmore College You have no reason to refuse our offer: 1. Luxury bus tour 2. Strong Canadian dollars! It is the best time to travel to the United States of America. 3. Enjoy the warmth of Disney World, Enjoy Daytona Beach in Florida 4. Professional tour guide all the way with you. Orlando Disney World 9-Day Tour via Baltimore, Washington & New York

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www.filipinostar.org 16 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 boyfriend, the late young actor Miko complications from a massive stroke he Sotto died in a mysterious suffered in 2004. He was 68. Once circumstance. In the movie, her dubbed “Frank Sinatra of the boyfriend, played by Miko's cousin, Philippines,” Mercado was one of the Oyo Boy Sotto, who is now her real-life leading television hosts during the boyfriend, died and refuses to leave sixties up to the eighties. His wife her. Seems like a true-to-life role? Marivic described him as “the country’s “Not really,” she counters. “In the best [TV and events] host, a legendary story, Oyo and I only had a short broadcaster and a loving father and romance before he died. But he scared husband.” a me to the max.” Angel's leading man in “Txt” is It's Cesar Montano . Also in the cast are Julia This Time Angel getting ready for role in ‘Robin’ Clarete, Dante Rivero, and Eugene Domingo. “Txt,” a co- production of Regal Entertainment, Inc. and APT Entertainment, opens October 18. a Maui Bares All

Cesar Montano is the latest in a string of showbiz personalities being hounded by the taxman. The Bureau of Internal Revenue has charged No, Maui Taylor didn’t shed off her Montano, the president of movie outfit clothes this time. But her recent radio CM Films, before the Quezon City interview was no less delectable than prosecutor’s office for failing to her bold flicks and pictorials. produce his firm’s accounts books and Guesting on a radio showbiz talk other financial records for 2004. show, the former Hot Babe, revealed a The charge is similar to the one There is no iota of doubt that Angel movies like “Kuya,” “Singles,” “Let The few secrets about her love life, career lodged against ABS-CBN executive Locsin is among the top favorites Love Begin,” “I Will Always Love You,” and some showbiz personalities. While vice president for entertainment Charo among our young actresses. among others, Angel comes as supposedly strapped to a lie detector Santos-Concio over her alleged failure Oozing with sex appeal, Angel someone one could emphatize with. machine, Maui gamely answered to present account records of Franmar perks up men even if she doesn't really She's good at almost everything questions from listeners. She revealed Corp. Montano said, “As far as I am bare her soul and all. In fact, in her so- she does. The audience shivered with that there’s indeed a sex video of her concerned, I have no problem with the called sexy pictorials which came out her in the , “Sigaw,” that we and ex-boyfriend Brian Revilla, which BIR. I’ve always had the reputation of in men's magazines, she hardly are almost sure, the same thing will they made while they were still on. The being a good taxpayer, that’s why I was showed flesh. Still, she's considered happen with her new thriller, “Txt” tape is with Brian but she is not worried surprised when I was told about the one of the sexiest among her peers. which is showing next week. at all that that he would leak it. case.” And women and children adore “My role is so difficult here,” says She also admitted she had His manager, Norma Japitana, said her as a superheroine in fantasy series Angel. “After every shoot, I feel groggy undergone breast augmentation as Montano was “the fourth biggest like “Mulawin,” “,” and “Majika.” as it seems every take was real.” well as surgery on her chin and nose. taxpayer among entertainers” in 2001. Even in her dramatic roles in the Everyone knows that her former Then she spilled the beans on an He said he had also heard rumors that alleged gay relationship between one his tax woes were “politically of her male friends who now lives in motivated” because oppositionist Australia and singer Erik Santos, the Senator Panfilo Lacson is reportedly current boyfriend of sexy comedienne eyeing him as his vice mayoralty bet in Rufa Mae Quinto. Maui said her friend Manila. “Maybe the administration feels broke off with Erik upon learning of the threatened,” he said, but the thing is, I am not yet sure if this will push through singer’s affair with Rufa Mae. a because I’ll be busy making three Eddie Mercado, 68 movies, including the ‘Ninoy’ (Aquino) biopic, next year.” a Meryl at Bernard Kasal Na

Veteran TV host Eddie Mercado Isa pang isyu na ikinakabit kay passed away on September 18 due to Willie ay ang pagtutol daw nito sa www.filipinostar.org October 2006 The North American Filipino Star 17 pagpapakasal ng kanyang anak na si "plenty people made kontra," including Brother Celebrity Edition,” the former the owners of the bar introduced me to Meryl Soriano sa kanyang boyfriend na her mom, former President Cory escort girl is besieged with movie Safian.” si Bernard Palanca. Tila biglaan kasi Aquino, who told Kris to choose a projects as well as romantic proposals. Keanna still vividly recalls the times ang desisyong pagpapakasal nina Christian name instead. TitaCory Keanna is busy promoting her first she was down and out not too long Meryl at Bernard Palanca. Isang linggo reportedly told Kris, "What if when the starrer, “Binibining K,” produced by ago. “My career couldn’t take off ang nakaraan matapos sabihin nila child grows up, Oprah is not anymore Reality Entertainment. despite the gimmicks my former Meryl at Bernard sa publiko kung as popular as she is now?” a At the same time, she is shooting manager had cooked up,” she said. “I gaano nila kamahal ang isa’t isa ay Viva Films’ “Reyna.” Moreover, she is was down and out and feeling very agad naming nabalita na nagpakasal Ruffa to Anchor the current object of affection of two sorry for myself,” she admitted. She sa huwes ang dalawa. Ayon sa mga (yes, two) Frenchmen -- a model said she turned to God during those chika na aming nasagap, naiyak daw Model Search named Safian and a businessman days. “Until now I go to Baclaran itong si Willie nang malaman na named Jacques. “I met them at the church every Thursday to hear Mass,” nagpakasal ang kanyang anak habang Embassy Bar,” Keanna said. “I hang she said. “No matter how tired I am, I siya ay nasa Las Vegas. Mukha raw out there a lot with my friends. One of find time for that.” a hindi pa talaga handa si Willie na mag- asawa na ang kanyang anak. At Juday Nag-aaral Maging Chef iniintriga pa na ayaw daw ni Willie kay Bernard bilang manugang. Si Mayor JV Ejercito ng San Juan ang nagkasal sa dalawa. Isang simpleng civil wedding ang naganap at ilan lang ang nakasaksi sa seremonya. Pero kung tutol nga itong si Willie sa kasalan, bakit ang balita ay ang kanyang wife na si Liz ang siya raw nag-asikaso ng gown ni Meryl? a Don't Tease Me, I Might Just Run

Ruffa Gutierrez sign a contract with Solar Entertainment to host the "Philippines’ Next Top Model," the local version of the US reality show hosted by supermodel Tyra Banks. "When we thought of bringing the show here, we Pagkabalik ni Judy Ann Santos Sa Amerika daw napag had no else in mind but Ruffa to host it," mula sa kanyang successful shows sa desisyonan ni Juday na mag-aaral said Solar big boss Wilson Tieng. "Of abroad ay kaagad na nag-enroll si pagbalik niya sa Pinas. Habang nasa course, I got excited when I learned I Juday sa isang Culinary School para Amerika itong sina Juday at Ryan ay was the personal choice of Tito Wilson," mag-aral ng Culinary Arts. masinsinang nag-usap ang dalawa said Ruffa. "I look forward to the beauty Pangarap kasi ni Juday na maging tungkol sa pag-aaral ni Juday. and glamour of the show. Buti na lang isang chef. Isa pa, magagamit niya ang Pinayuhan ni Ryan si Juday na kung Yilmaz (her husband) watches the kanyang mga matututunan sa gusto talaga niyang mag-aral ay hindi show in Turkey and he likes it, kaya nasabing kurso para sa kanyang na dapat pa niyang ipagpaliban pa. pumayag for me to host the local business, ang Café Havana. Matagal Bukod sa mga shows at version here." na talagang balak ni Juday na mag- pagliliwaliw nina Juday at Ryan ay Ruffa’s coming and going has aral ng Culinary Arts. Hindi lang niya dumalaw din sila sa kani-kanilang mga sparked rumors that her marriage is on magawa noon dahil nga sa hectic relatives sa Amerika. Ipinakilala ng isa’t the rocks. "Sorry to disappoint my schedules niya. Habang nasa Amerika isa sa kani-kanilang Getting to know, detractors but Yilmaz and I are okay. si Juday ay kasama niya ang kanyang ika nga. Marami tuloy ang nag-iisip na We are happy where we are. If some family at ang kanyang lovey dovey na nagbabalak na talagang magpakasal people believe otherwise, that’s their That's Kris Aquino’s reaction to a si Ryan Agoncillo. ang dalawa. a problem. Basta kami ni Yilmaz, wala newspaper columnist’s claim that the kaming problema." a Queen of Talk had supposedly received Luis at Sam: Sino ang Malapit Sa Puso Ni Toni? the blessings of her mother, former Keanna is On Top of President Cory Aquino, to run in the May 2007 senatorial elections. The the World columnist further said that Kris’s alleged senatorial ambition was one good reason for abolishing the Senate and amending the Constitution. Kris was obviously piqued by the write-up. “I will not run,” she said. “But if you are pushing for Charter change, don’t step on other people. Why are you always underestimating us? People love artists.” She said some people are just threatened by her fame. Kris herself has confirmed that per her ultrasound test, she is “100 percent pregnant.” She is due to deliver her second child in May.Kris says that if the baby is a boy, he will be named James Jr. after her husband, basketball player James Yap. The couple has not decided on a Congratulations kina Toni Noong September 11 ang unang girl’s name yet. Kris initially wanted Keanna Reeves is making the most Gonzaga at Luis Manzano sa episode ng bagong show sa ABS-CBN Oprah (after her idol Oprah Winfrey). of her newfound celebrity status. After magandang premiere telecast ng But she changed her mind because emerging big winner in “Pinoy Big kanilang teleserye, “Crazy For You.” See Crazy For You page 18 www.filipinostar.org 18 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 People’s initiative: Last hope to Cha-cha From Page 3 CONSTITUTION Atienza pushes Anti-Terror bill BY By Christine Avendaño, Juliet Labog-Javellana Commission on Elections’ decision Manila Mayor Lito Atienza Inquirer rejecting their people’s initiative for yesterday urged for the early passage October 20, 2006 Panganiban said, however, that the Charter Change. of the Anti-Terror Bill in Congress as Should the Supreme Court decide high court was used to pressure and Ermita said President Gloria soon as it reconvenes after the three- next week to shoot down the people’s would not let this affect its Macapagal Arroyo remained week recess on Nov. 6. initiative to amend the Constitution, it independence. committed to Charter Change despite Atienza said the approval of the will spell the end to the campaign for He said the high court would hold the setback from the Comelec. final version of the Bill will enable Charter change, according to a leader an en banc session on the petition next Sigaw ng Bayan spokesman Raul President Arroyo to sign it into law and of one of the proponents of the week. Lambino said there was still enough have it put into effect to safeguard the signature drive. Malacañang, which supports either time to conduct a plebiscite. country against terrorists. Eastern Samar Gov. Ben a people’s initiative or a constituent “If the Supreme Court releases [a "This will give us the capability to Evardone, spokesperson of the Union assembly to amend the Constitution, favorable] decision on Oct. 25, the protect ourselves from terror attacks," of Local Authorities of the Philippines had denied pressuring the high court. Comelec will have at least 60 to 90 Atienza told journalists in the regular (Ulap), yesterday said this was his Nevertheless, the President said in days to call for a plebiscite,” Lambino Newsstand media forum at the personal assessment of the situation. a speech on Thursday night before the said. Ambassador Hotel. He said he did not think another mode Global Forum that she was determined But Comelec Commissioner The Philippines is set to host a for Charter change—convening to have the Constitution amended in Resurreccion Borra said it was no series of major international events Congress into a constituent assembly order to “build a modern Philippines.” longer possible to embark on a which require adequate security to tackle the proposed amendments— The Global Forum is composed of plebiscite as the poll body had already preparations that an Anti-Terror Bill would be able to take off. Panganiban and his foreign started preparing for the local and enacted into law will enhance, he “Con-ass (constituent assembly) counterparts in 33 countries, as well as congressional elections in 2007. added. "Surely, we do not want to will be a lost cause if we lose this jurists, law experts and members of the Borra said the commission needed create a very wrong perception that we [court] battle because the momentum law academe. at least three months to prepare coddle terrorists," Atienza said. will die down, election fever will set in, assuming that the Supreme Court He cited studies that our security the campaign will already be in the Inhibition upheld the petition for people’s laws are now outdated and need to be people’s minds,” Evardone told initiative. restrengthened to keep up with modern reporters during a birthday lunch at the Senate Majority Leader Francis House Majority Leader Prospero terrorist tools and tactics to eliminate all Palace for Gabriel Claudio, President Pangilinan said the justices aspiring to Nograles criticized Senator Joker types of terrorist threats. Macapagal-Arroyo’s political adviser. replace Panganiban on his retirement Arroyo’s claim that the House was It would be recalled that Manila fell Evardone was referring to at the age of 70 on Dec. 7 should pressuring the Supreme Court to rule in victim to terrorist attacks in 2000 on preparations for the May 2007 mid- inhibit themselves from deliberations favor of Sigaw ng Bayan. The people’s Dec. 30, Rizal Day, when suspected term elections, which include the on the people’s initiative petition. initiative had no bearing on the move members of Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) senatorial race. He said inhibition was the correct by a majority of congressmen to affiliated elements bombed Plaza “We are hoping the Supreme Court action for these justices to take “in the amend the Constitution through a Ferguson fronting the US Embassy and will render a decision soonest because light of the so-called pressure brought constituent assembly, he said. the LRT at the Blumentritt Station killing we are running out of time,” the to bear on the Supreme Court justices, Leyte Rep. Eduardo Veloso innocent lives. governor added. the President’s announcement before threatened a nationwide campaign Atienza said "these are incidents He also denied that Ulap—which is the [Global Forum] that she wants against politicians opposing Charter we do not want repeated. That is why composed of governors, mayors and Charter change to succeed, and [the Change. we are appealing to the senators to other local officials—had been fact] that a new chief justice is to be Eastern Samar Gov. Ben Evadone pass the Anti-Terror Bill." a pressuring the high court to decide in appointed by her on Dec. 7.” slammed the Senate, saying it had From Page 17 Crazy For You favor of a people’s initiative. Pangilinan is the Senate’s always opposed proposals to shift to a representative in the Judicial and Bar parliamentary form of government. na pinalabas din sa lahat ng The 6.3M signatures Council, which screens nominees for “It is their bloated egos and selfish Filipino Channel (TFC) abroad. Ang the judiciary. The council submits its political agenda that are preventing first episode ay talaga naman Ulap and the citizens’ group Sigaw ng final choice to the President, who Charter Change,” he said of the nagpatawa at nagpaiyak sa mga Bayan had asked the Supreme Court makes the appointment. nanood, lalo na sa ating mga senators. a to reverse the Commission on “By recusing themselves, the kababayang OFW. Nauna dito ay Elections’ decision in August [justices] would be spared the pinagtambal sina Toni at Sam Milby sa dismissing their petition to amend the awkward situation wherein the IMF urges Philippines to pelikulang “You Are The One” na Constitution through the direct initiative appointment of the new chief justice keep up reforms, lower debt naging hit sa takilya. Ngayon ay of the people. would be perceived as a reward for aabangan natin kung magiging hit din The two groups had claimed to taking a stand in favor of Malacañang, October 12, 2006 ang tambalan nina Toni at Luis sa have gathered 6.3 million signatures whether or not the petition is granted,” The International Monetary Fund said telebisyon. from citizens seeking a shift from the he said, adding: on Thursday the key challenge for the Marami ang nagsasabi na mas bicameral-presidential to the “If any of the aspiring justices who Philippine economy is to maintain click daw ang tambalan Toni at Sam unicameral-parliamentary system of may have voted in favor of momentum in reforms, which will kaysa sa Toni at Luis. Hmmm, government, in compliance with the Malacañang’s position is appointed bolster market confidence and insure mukhang hindi lang sa love magkaribal requirement that the petition should chief justice on Dec. 7, it may have an against market volatility. kay Toni sina Sam at Luis kundi pati sa have the signature of at least 12 adverse effect on the credibility of the In its mid-year assessment of the showbiz. Pero alam n’yo ba na kung percent of all registered voters and Supreme Court. Philippine economy, the IMF said under marami ang may gusto kay Sam na representing at least 3 percent of “Inhibition is an available option current policies, economic growth is maging kapareha o ka-loveteam ni voters in each congressional district. that should be seriously considered by likely to increase to 5.5 percent in 2007. Toni, sa tunay na buhay naman ay tila They had also asked the Comelec those who are interested in the post of It said this could be higher if public mas pabor ang madir ni Toni na si Luis to immediately schedule a plebiscite chief justice.” debt was lowered further, which would ang maging boyfriend ng kanilang so that the changes could be boost investor confidence and anak. Ayon daw kasi sa mommy ni submitted to the people for approval. Beating the deadline investment. Toni, mas kilala raw niya si Luis kaysa Executive Secretary Eduardo "Although on a declining path, the kay Sam. Well, hindi natin masisisi si ‘Some pressure’ Ermita acknowledged that time was public debt is still higher, with external mommy kung si Luis ang mas type running out on the campaign for commercial borrowing requirements niya. Ito kasing si Sam ay mukhang But the Comelec had junked the Charter change. continuing to be sizeable," the IMF takot umakyat ng ligaw kay Toni. We petition, citing the high court’s 1997 He reminded reporters that Jan. 15 said. heard na hindi pa pala nakakapunta ruling in Santiago versus Comelec that was the last day for those running in "(IMF) directors encouraged the itong si Sam sa bahay ni Toni. Congress had yet to pass an enabling the May elections to file certificates of authorities to sustain fiscal Mukhang nahihiya o natatakot law for a people’s initiative. candidacy. consolidation and other reform efforts itong si Sam sa parents ni Toni. In Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban “We must beat the deadline [to to ensure debt sustainability, maintain fairness to Toni’s mom, hindi daw siya said early this week that the high court make Charter change happen] before the confidence of markets, and spur nakikialam sa kung sino ang dapat was under “some pressure” from Jan. 15,” he said. a investment and the rate of growth," the gustuhin ng kanilang anak. Na kay Toni interested parties now that it was fund added. a pa rin daw ang desisyon kung sino ang preparing to issue a decision on the kanyang mamahalin. Ay naku Toni petition for a people’s initiative. ha…ang haba ng buhok mo!

a www.filipinostar.org October 2006 The North American Filipino Star 19 Arroyo can’t make up mind on nurse tests Nurses who benefited from leakage may face license revocation October 11, 2006 nationwide retake. members of the Nursing Board, two But they have been complaining that Where the nursing exam leak is From all over the country, said review centers and one nursing numerous hospitals refuse to hire concerned, the Arroyo administration Defensor, complainants argued, school in Metro Manila will be named them. To top it off, the possibility that flipped, then flopped, then flipped “Why they should have to suffer as co-conspirators in the distribution they would fail the exam that they again. The nurses are not amused. when those who benefited from the and dissemination of the test had passed fair and square was After announcing the other week leakage of the test questions were in questions for profit. putting undue pressure on them, that everyone who took the nursing Manila and Baguio.” board exams last June would have to Defensor could only say that the retake two of the five tests, Palace was still looking for ways to Malacañang late last week hedged “resolve the issue fairly.” on its solution to end the controversy Over the weekend, the brewing by saying it would wait for a court scandal took a turn for the worse ruling before making a final decision. when nursing board reviewer Joel The exam had been tainted with Dumdum said he believed the allegations that test questions had leakage was more widespread, been leaked and was used by the GA possibly reaching Davao in Lapus review centers in Manila and Mindanao and Tacloban in the Baguio City. Visayas. The National Bureau of He, however, admitted that the Investigation (the Philippine stories had been based on hearsay equivalent of the FBI) investigated and that he had no actual knowledge the leak and was supposed to submit of the leak. Dumdum also said that its report to Malacañang on Monday his statement “was hypothetical.” (Sunday, U.S.) but at the start of the The NBI’s request for more time week asked for more time. to conclude its investigation may be Meanwhile, the nursing due to the heavy penalties the guilty graduates who took the exam and parties are likely to face. Under the Nursing examinees shout slogans during a rally in Manila October 10, 2006. They opposed the passed it have been grumbling, as PRC (Professional Regulation Act) proposal for a retake of the 2006 nursing licensure examination after a leak in the examination have their parents. Modernization Act of 2000, anyone was reported. Presidential Chief of Staff Michael involved in the manipulation of board Defensor admitted that his cell phone exams faces imprisonment of up to Roughly 17,000 of the 42,000- according to one of the June exam had been swamped with text 12 years, as well as a fine of between odd examinees who took the topnotchers. messages protesting President P50,000 and P100,000 (around controversy-marred exam passed. See NURSES EXAM page 22 Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s plan to $1,000 to $2,000). issue an executive order calling for a Sources at the NBI say that two

www.filipinostar.org 20 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 Dual Citizenship growth and expand our economy. The fact remains that a For Immediate Release Canadian citizen is a Canadian citizen, October 19, 2006 regardless of where they are from, or By: Raymonde Folco, Liberal Critic for where they live. Citizenship and Immigration As such, the Liberal Party of Although the federal Canada does not support any action government has not specifically said it which seeks to undermine this right to is looking citizenship, simply because someone into revoking dual citizenship, a chooses to live abroad. Further, we do spokeswoman in the office of the not believe that new Canadians Minister of Citizenship and Immigration should be forced to abandon their recently told the Globe and Mail connection to their country of origin in Is this a common scenario? You You also need a firewall. that a review is under way. order to enjoy the same rights and have a project to do and you Personally, I like ZoneAlarm. It "We will be reviewing the rights responsibilities afforded to Canadian- urgently need a computer to works well & it's free. Another good and responsibilities of citizenship in born citizens. With this conviction complete it. As you start working on & free, firewall is Outpost. the upcoming months," said Pema comes the understanding that the your application you notice that Don't forget about spyware and Lhalungpa, in minister Monte Solberg's Canadian government has an browser on the internet is slow, your adware. These are programs office. obligation to protect its citizens printer and scanner does not downloaded to the unwary by Ensuring Canada remains a abroad, particularly in instances of respond as quickly as it is use to be advertising companies. Some of destination of choice for immigrants humanitarian conflict or crisis - as requires policies that recognize the and any rendering on any media this stuff is so intrusive that it can witnessed this summer during the modern realities of immigration. conflict in southern Lebanon, and last files are impossible. You check your cause computer problems. You can Immigrants seek our opportunities, our main hard drive and it indicates a eradicate most of it with Ad-aware or year during the tsunami in South East security and our way of life. We, in Asia, in the United States in the wake considerable memory left. So what Spybot-Search & Destroy. turn, welcome them, recognizing the of Hurricane Katrina, and the is the problem? Spybot also will block most culture and diversity they bring to earthquake in Pakistan and India. Your computer might be spyware and adware programs from our communities, and the expertise If the Conservative infected by computer viruses. First roosting on your computer. All of and energy they bring to our economy. government truly believes in standing thing is to acquire anti-virus these programs, with the exception In one very important way, Canada's up for Canada, it will unequivocally program. I would download and run of the pay anti-virus products, are citizenship laws acknowledge that defend our current citizenship laws, Ad-aware or Spybot Search and available. That address is: reality. and the rights of our citizens - both in Destroy. They will find and delete Canada is one of 59 countries and outside our borders. Canadians spyware. Update these programs http://www.download.com/3000-8022- in the world which recognize dual should expect nothing less. citizenship. In essence, dual before you run them. Both are free. 10122137.html citizenship allows new Canadians the Researchers find new species I want to say again how pleased right to If you lock down your computer, in box at US museum: I am that you have made the effort retain the citizenship of both this and Philippine fossil said to be an extinct you are very unlikely to have to protect your computer. This isn't their mother country. Similarly, dwarf buffalo difficult if you take the time to grasp problems with hackers. Take a little Canadian citizens residing beyond our October 20, 2006 it Most of it is free. First and time to learn this stuff & you'll be in borders are not required to Researchers say a box of bones foremost, you need anti-virus great shape! a relinquish their Canadian citizenship in left at a museum in Chicago a decade protection. The link is below. If you exchange for the citizenship of ago by a curious layman have turned Al Abdon are not comfortable with a their new home. out to contain the only known fossil Video Hollywood Junkies computer, you may be better off Dual citizenship is one of the remains of a dwarf water buffalo that (514) 264-8706 paying for a program. That should many reasons Canada remains a roamed the Philippines in the last ice get you more handholding. There model for the international community. age. are many pay programs. Three I like It affords Canadians the right to travel The new species, described in the and live abroad, in order to share the are McAfee, Panda and Symantec. October issue of the Journal of Canadian experience with the Those Web sites are, respectively: Mammalogy, has been named Bubalus international community. Not only do cebuensis after the Philippine island of they have an opportunity to explore Cebu, where the bones were first http://www.mcafee.com/us/ the world, but the skills and knowledge http://www.pandasoftware.com/home/ discovered by a mining engineer in that they gain can be brought 1958. default.asp back and shared with their fellow http://www.symantec.com/index.htm That engineer, Michael Armas, held Canadians. onto the bones for nearly 40 years, Though it is certainly a showing them to a series of people progressive and open approach to who were stumped by his find.. Finally, citizenship, it is also a reflection of the in 1995, he showed them to a Chicago new global community. doctor, Hamilcar Intengan, who The fact is, reversing this suggested Armas let him take the policy and forcing new Canadians to bones home and bring them to renounce the citizenship of their researchers at the city's lakefront previous country, or forcing Canadians museum. to renounce their citizenship when they When Intengan, a Filipino native, decide to live abroad, would make brought the bones to the Field, Canada a less attractive choice for however, he was kept waiting by 4715 Van Horne Bubble tea with a immigrants. This would impede museum staff. So he left the box, along Canada's ability to attract those with a brief description of where the (near Plamondon Metro) variety of flavors immigrants we need to stimulate bones were found and his business Tel.: 514-344-9999 population See FOSSIL page 23 Internet Café DR. EMILIA ESPIRITU

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www.filipinostar.org October 2006 The North American Filipino Star 21 charge accumulates on the tips for oven. For example, it is not safe to sparking to take place. The irregular and microwave food in margarine plastic tubs. rough edges of cut aluminum foil give the The plastic used for margarine tubs melt at same effect. Interestingly, spoons with a lower temperature than microwave-safe their rounded edges don’t have as much plastic. Therefore, there is a strong tendency to spark. Dishes with metal trim, likelihood that the margarine plastic tub will particularly the ones with elaborate trim will melt and deform in the microwave oven. spark, again based on the principle that Coming full circle to the subject of the electrons will rush to the tips of the metal safety of microwave plastics, the email figures and jump or spark to the next. The message and its various forms that started sparking or the rushing electrons generate circulating in the internet in 2002 originated enough heat to potentially cause a fire. from a concern that the intense heat You would have seen this if you generated by microwaves might release unintentionally left a metal wire tie-wrap or chemical plasticizers from the plastic The Microwave: Is it Safe? a metal staple in the container you placed container into the food. Plasticizers are in the microwave oven. incorporated into the starting material used Sometime ago, someone asked me if pocket of his pants melted. The idea of This brings us to the subject of to manufacture flexible plastic products. there was any danger in using plastic inventing a microwave oven then occurred “microwave-safe” utensils. Microwave- Without plasticizers, these products would containers to heat food in a microwave to him. I cannot verify the truthfulness of safe means that the utensil or container be rigid and even brittle. It is a safe bet that oven. The question, I suppose, was this story, but in fact, the first microwave has very little moisture, if any, and therefore all plastic products that flex have motivated by an internet email message ovens sold in the late 1940s carried the will not be heated up by microwaves. plasticizers. It happens that the that in 2002 started making the rounds name “Radarange.” It is said that the Microwave-safe can also mean that the plasticizers are known carcinogens. claiming that plastics exposed to original Radarange microwave oven was 6 Therefore, the safety of plastics in microwaves release cancer-causing toxic ft tall, weighed more than 300 kg, water- microwave situations depends on whether substances. The email message in its cooled and produced 3000 watts of power. plasticizers are in fact released into food various forms recommended that glass or Eventually, through advances in upon heating, and to what extent. This is ceramic be used instead to prepare or technology, the microwave oven evolved an area about which very little has been reheat food in microwave ovens in order to into what it is today, a sideways rectangular published in the scientific literature. What I avoid contaminating the food with metal box small enough to fit on a normal have found through the databases of undesirable substances that come from kitchen countertop. medical literature is that plasticizers do heated plastic. The short answer is that How do microwaves heat food? leach out of plastic containers heated in while there is a small grain of truth to this Microwave radiation causes water the microwave, but that the quantities circulating email message, contrary to its molecules to rotate and vibrate. The released are way below the levels that dire claims, the microwave oven is indeed friction caused by this motion generates would be considered problematic. As an safe to use with plastic containers that are heat. The more power the microwaves nteresting aside, plasticizers are soluble labelled “microwave-safe.” In this article, I have, the more friction it causes, and the will briefly explain how a microwave works, more intense the heat generated. From in fatty substances, and therefore, fatty what the potential risks might be, and why, this, you can see that microwaves will not foods heated by microwave in plastic when used properly, this convenient be able to generate heat in a completely containers will tend to absorb these kitchen appliance is compatible with all dry substance. At the same time, this also substances, but again at extremely low food vessels labelled “microwave-safe,” means that the microwave oven will take levels that do not pose danger. plastics included. longer to generate intense heat when the Health Canada advises that the First, what are microwaves? Some food has much water in it. Furthermore, consumer should use only microwave- people still use the expression “nuke the just like a regular oven, and contrary to safe plastic ware in microwave ovens. food” when they mean heat the food in the what some may think, microwaves heat This is not to say that other types of microwave. Although microwaves are a from the outside in. Water on the outer material making up the utensil or container food-grade plastic are not safe to use in type of radiation, they have nothing to do layers of the food absorbs the microwaves can withstand high temperatures that may the microwave from a toxicological point with radioactivity. Radiation is a general and get hot, and this heat is transferred to be generated by the microwaves in the See Page 22 Microwave term that covers everything from the the middle section by conductance. This is powerful cosmic rays and X-rays to visible why you so often observe uneven heating light, to infrared used in a type of space of food in microwave cooking. Aside from Enterprise Immigration Canada Inc. heater, and to radio waves used to carry water molecules, microwaves are also able radio and television signals. Microwaves to generate heat in sugar and in fat, but to 4661 Van Horne Avenue, Suite 10, are in-between the warm infrared and the a lesser extent. Montreal, Quebec H3W 1H9 useful radio waves. Those ubiquitous Why are aluminum foil and other metal television satellite dish-antennas use utensils not to be placed inside a Tel.: 514-738-8549 • Fax: 514-738-5631 microwaves to transmit information. Radar microwave oven? Microwaves are able to uses microwaves. Cellular telephones make electrons rush back and forth along YOUR SOLUTION FOR PERMANENT RESIDENCE receive and emit microwaves, but the the metal which is a conductor. If you microwave energy they emit is so low there remember, what we call electricity is really Mme M. Gauthier, B.A., MBA, President of the company, is a is no danger of cooking your ears or your electrons rushing back and forth along former representative of the Mihister of Citizenship and brains, in a manner of speaking. metal conductors such as copper wire or The idea of using microwaves as a aluminum wire. When a fork is exposed to Immigration. She will help you solve your problems such as: heating device for food came to – you microwave radiation inside an oven, the • Demand for refugee status and related appeals guessed it – a radar engineer in the 1940s. rushing electrons will tend to concentrate • Demand for refugee status outside of Canada It is said that when he came too close to a on the tips of the tines of the fork. radar device, the chocolate bar in the Eventually (and very quickly), enough • Detention reviews • Memorandum for PRAA observations LIFE INSURANCE • Memorandum for Humanitarian observations • Appeal on all decisions rendered by foreign INCOME TAX Canadian Embassies Dennis Buenviaje Financial Services Life Insurance, Car/House Insurance and Mortgage Loans referrals • Visa Loans, RRSP, RESP, Investments, SegFunds, Bookkeeping, Income Tax Corporation/Registered • Sponsorship inside and outside Canada Commissioner of Oath • Independent Immigration Address: 4781 Van Horne, Suite 208, Montreal, Quebec H3W 1J1 Across from the Philippine Center • Inscription to provincial programs such as job Call 514-895-4076, off: 514-344-2506, 626-4226 offers, investor, entrepreneur, skilled worker Also call: Mila Villaflor tel:744-8508 • Citizenship application Rose Zaagaata tel. 543-8291, 346-3794 Glen Magbanua tel.: 731-1859 • Job placement (caregivers, nannies) 14th yr serving the Filipino community “No victory is ever won without a struggle.” Western Union Congratulations to the Winners of Back to School “2005 of P2,500.00each Myrn a Recto, Antonio Vargas, Nancy Pagaray, Emmanuel Francisco, Nova Genir WE OFFER Ma. 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www.filipinostar.org 22 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 Defense Secretary downplays travel advisory issue by British Gov’t From page 21 MICROWAVE plastics in microwave ovens, knowing iof view, but that the microwave-safe that very minute amounts of October 19, 2006 situation like this. We've been in worse plastic has the advantage of having plasticizers leach out during Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz on situation and weve been able to been tested to withstand and retain its microwave cooking assures us that we Wednesday downplayed the latest manage (them)," he said. form even when exposed to high can use microwave-safe plastic ware travel advisory issued by the British Cruz also noted that the military temperatures generated by worry-free. However, we also realize government warning its citizens in and police are on a high state of alert in microwaves. Health Canada advises that it is wiser not to use plastic ware or going to the Philippines as terrorist the South following reports that the against the use of Styrofoam any other house ware for things they groups could be in the final stages of Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and the containers in microwave ovens as were not intended for. Who knows? planning more attacks. Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) are planning to these are more prone to leach out That margarine tub that you have used In a press briefing, Cruz said the launch diversionary attacks there. plasticizers. We are also advised not to repeatedly to heat food in the threat of terrorism is not only faced by Government forces are presently re-use the plastic trays used for microwave might have deteriorated so Philippines. "In all places worldwide, pursuing JI operatives Dulmatin and convenience foods as I suppose much it is in fact starting to leach the threat of terrorism is part of the Omar Patek and Abu Sayyaf chieftain repeated heating will cause a plasticizers into your food. Be advised peoples lives. It's not only here in the Khadaffy Janjalani in the outskirts of disintegration of the material and may accordingly. a Philippines but also outside... in all Sulu since Aug. 1. "The pursuit result in greater contamination of food countries." operations will continue so that they by plasticizers. Britain on Tuesday said the (terrorists) cannot regroup and plan," In conclusion, as with all other Philippines is facing a serious threat said Cruz, referring to the offensive things, it is indeed helpful and useful to from terrorist groups. The Britist against the ASG and JI operatives in know and to understand the principles government made the warning days Sulu dubbed Oplan Ultiman. behind what we do, so that we can after bombings struck four cities and Meanwhile, the Defense chief make correct decisions. With respect towns in the South, resulting in the expressed gladness over the seizure of to the story concerning the safety of killing and wounding of scores of some 200 kilos of ammonium nitrate people. (use in making bomb) at the Cruz said this is not the first time Zamboanga City pier last Tuesday. the country faces a terrorism threat "Fortunately, we intercepted 200 even as he assured that the holding of kilos of ammonium nitrate which they the Association of Southeast Asian (terrorists) are going to use in the Nation (Asean) summit in Cebu this bombing," he said. December would not be affected by He also reiterated his appeal for the threat. Congress to pass the anti-terrorism bill. "I believe we can respond to such "It's important to pass the anti-terrorism scenarios. This (threat from terrorists) bill so well have a legal tool to fight is not the first time that we are in a terrorism," he added. a

From Page 19 NURSES EXAM

The expectations of her had become would issue an EO ordering a retake. “too high,” she told mediamen at a Then she appeared to change her forum Monday. Although a graduate of mind again when she said that the the World Cit College, added pressure administration would wait for the court came from the fact that she had taken to decide. review classes at the Gapud center, Still pending before a local court is she said. a bid to nullify the results of the June But typical of those who passed in 2006 exam. areas where no cheating has been Besides the examinees, the other discovered is Gerard Gumban of group of people deeply affected by the Davao City. He did not hide his controversy are the parents of the disappointment at the announced plan would-be nurses. One group of of the government by saying all parents have formed the Alliance of licensed nurses should take another Parents of Nursing Board Passers. exam. The head of that organization, Dr. “The issue of leakage has been Raul Grageda, said their stand would there for a long time now,” he said, be to oppose the planned EO. “Unluckily, it is our batch that has been President Arroyo justified the need dragged into this controversy.” for a retake by saying the nursing He said all nurses as well as deans profession had been stigmatized by of nursing colleges should take the the allegations of cheating. exam. There is a growing global demand When reports of the leak first came for Filipino nurses as they have proven out, President Gloria Macapagal themselves to be not only at par with Arroyo announced a “no-retake” the world’s best, but actually set the policy. She then took a 180-degree standards by which today’s Florence turn when she announced that she Nightingales are judged. a

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www.filipinostar.org October 2006 The North American Filipino Star 23 Ang Camping ng Laging Handa Scouts Group, Philippine delegation biggest ever as Doha gears up for Asia Games 6-8 ng oktubre 2006 October 15, 2006 lights to defend the 9-balls doubles Ni Anna May Tappan Despite a tight budget and modest gold Bustamante and Nikoy Lining goals, the Philippines is fielding its won in Busan. hindi mo ito malalanghap sa Nagpunta ang grupo ng tagatuklas biggest Asian Games delegation ever Bowling great Paeng Nepomuceno kabihasnan. Pinagmasdan namin ang na LAGING HANDA sa in Doha (Qatar) this December and will will also miss his partner RJ Bautista in mga tanawing kay-ganda, mga iba't- napakagandang lugar ng see action in most sports disciplines in Qatar when the Filipinos try to retain ibang kulay ng dahon, ang Tamaracouta. Ang lugar na ito ay all its Asiad stints. the men’s doubles championship they nanggaling sa salitang Tamara na napakagandang lawa na nagbigay kumakatawan sa kasaganaan ng puno saya sa aming lahat. Damang-dama ng Tamarack at Couta na ibig sabihin namin ang kaligayahang hindi

Hiking in the forest, posing for photos, finding a nice spot, everyone posed for souvenir. H.E. Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al-Thani (2nd L), official 15th Asian Games Doha 2006 Torch Relay ambassador, passes a torch to Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo at the ay katawan ng tubig. Sa madaling maipaliwanag sa mga mukha ng bawat Malacanang Palace in Manila October 18, 2006. The relay is the longest in the history of the salita ang pook na ito ay puno ng isa lalo na sa mga kabataan, mga Games, travelling 50,000 km to 15 countries and regions in 55 days returning to Doha for the tagatuklas ng LAGING HANDA. Ang opening ceremony of the 15th Asian Games. agos ng tubig sa tabi ng lawa ay amin The Philippines will send 267 copped in Busan. ding nasilayan, ang mga punongkahoy athletes in Qatar, slightly more than its Big delegations don’t usually have na nagsilbing inspirasyon sapagkat ito previous all-time high of 259 in big yields, though, as proven in ay ginawang napakagandang tahanan Bangkok in 1998. The Filipinos will also Bangkok where the country sent 259 ng ating Poong Maykapal. Kung take part in 31 of the 40 events on tap, athletes in 28 sports disciplines. Of the makakarating lamang kayo sa lugar na one more sport than the 2002 Busan entire contingent, cue masters Gandy ito tiyak na kayo ay masisiyahan edition. Valle and Snooky Villanueva were the sapagkat inyong masisilayan ang Philippine Olympic Committee only ones who brought home a gold. kagandahang nilikha ng ating Poong president Peping Cojuangco was The Philippines’ strongest showing Maykapal. Bilang kasapi ng tagatuklas Anna May and Zenaida Kharroubi found this upbeat over the large contingent, in the quadrennial event was in 1954 na LAGING HANDA maraming mga wooden structure used like a chapel. saying the entire delegation—400 when it was held in the country. The bagay silang natutunan, ang including coaches and officials—are Philippines won 14 golds, 14 silvers pagmamalasakit sa nilikha ng Diyos, kakahuyan at pinalilibutan ng tubig na on the right track. and 17 bronzes. In our home turf, we pakikipagtulungan ng bawat isa, siyang nagbibigay saya sa mga taong He, however, refused to make a won four gold medals in swimming, pagmamahal sa Diyos at pagiging dumadayo sa lugar na ito. forecast though the POC’s partner four in shooting, five in boxing and one handa sa lahat ng ano mang oras. Masisislayan mo lamang ito kung ikaw Philippine Sports Commission had in basketball. kaya kung gusto ninyong masilayan ay kabilang sa grupo ng tagatuklas ng earlier predicted the country to The worst was in 1974 Tehran ang lugar ng Tamaracouta at maging Canada o kabilang sa grupo ng duplicate if not surpass the three gold Games where the country went home kabilang ng Laging Handa at LAGING HANDA. Nagsimula ang medals, seven silvers and 16 bronzes it with just two silvers—both from magkaroon ng bagong kaalaman, aming paglalakbay noong gabi ng ika- won four years ago. swimming great Ral Rosario—and 11 halina at sumali sa amin ito ay anim ng Oktubre . Noong umaga ng “Let us not get distracted over our bronzes. ginaganap sa Mckencie Park tuwing ika-pito ng Oktubre,aming nasilayan Asian Games preparation,” said There won’t be a basketball squad Cojuangco, whose daughter this year, once again prolonging the equestrian champ Mikee Cojuangco- country’s quest of its first Asian Games Jaworski won one of the three golds in gold since the 1952 Jakarta Asiad. In individual show jumping. that edition, the country amassed Django Bustamante and Efren seven golds, including one from boxer “Bata” Reyes won’t see action this time Manfredo Alipala who recently passed but RP billiards are counting on lesser away. a From Page 20 FOSSIL card, with a security guard, who Heaney believes the dwarf water ultimately got it to Heaney. buffalo is descended from an ancestor Heaney said he knew he'd been of the much larger Asian water buffalo handed a significant find "within 15 still common today. He says it probably minutes." The bones were, for starters, lived sometime during the last ice age, those of a mammal, and no mammal when sea levels were 400 feet lower bones had ever been found on Cebu. and many of the islands that make up Further investigation made it clear the Philippines were closer together or the bones were those of an adult water attached. buffalo, but much smaller than any Mababait na bata natutong magluto ng almusal sa umaga - Mathew, Kurt, Kevin, Tommy, at Kristian. The dwarf water buffalo is 20-25 seen before. percent smaller than the Tamaraw ang bukangliwayway. Sa aming Still, it took Heaney and his (Bubalus mindorensis), the sabado alas 3:00 ng hapon. Narito ang paglalakbay nalanghap namin ang colleagues years to track down Armas, endangered dwarf water buffalo that buong kasapi ng LAGING HANDA at sarap ng sariwang hangin na siyang double-check that the remains were in lives on Mindoro island, only a few nagbigay lakas sa aming paglalakad, ang napakagandang tanawin ng fact unique and try -- unsuccessfully -- hundred of which remain today. a ang hangin na ito ay kakaiba sapagkat Tamaracouta. to carbon date the fossils. www.filipinostar.org 24 The North American Filipino Star October 2006

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