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NOVEMBER 2021 • Volume 14, Number 11

AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

Continuing Demands of Migrants

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A MONUMENT OF A FILIPINO, FOR THE FILIPINOS P12-13►

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2021

THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

Immigration Update | Business

NOVEMBER 2021 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

FROM MIGRATION TO IMMIGRATION

Marjorie Carmona Newman info@ mcncanadaimmigration.com 780-758-2045 Marjorie Carmona Newman is a REGULATED CANADIAN IMMIGRATION CONSULTANT based in Edmonton, Alberta. She is currently a member of CAPIC’s Policy Committee and previously served as Prairie Chapter representative for Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC) in the Governance and Nomination Committee and Education Committee. A recipient of CAPIC's Members Service Award for four consecutive years (2015-2019).

Residency Obligation of Permanent Residents who have been outside of Canada due to COVID-19 o (e) on approval by an officer of their application to renounce their permanent resident status. Even if that kababayan does not meet the residency obligation, he is still a PR until an official decision is made on his status. PR status does not expire. Even if he hasn’t lived in Canada for many years, he could still be a PR. While a person’s PR card may expire, that does not mean that his PR status expires. PR status is not something that can expire and needs to be revoked after a negative determination is made. With a valid PR card, he will not have a problem proving that he is a permanent resident of Canada. However, at the border, an officer may assess his residency obligation. I strongly suggest that

he is prepared to respond to all the concerns that the border officer may raise and be ready to request a positive determination via s.28(2) (C) of the IRPA for humanitarian and compassionate considerations. He should provide all documentation and proof for why he did not meet his residency obligations, how he planned on returning to Canada in 2020 and would’ve met his obligation and how COVID-19 delayed that. He must also be able to answer why it took him long to sell his properties and why he did not return earlier.

the IAD may still allow him to keep his status if there are sufficient humanitarian and compassionate grounds. IAD will assess factors (list is not exhaustive) like: to what extent he fell short from complying with his residency obligation, his reasons for being away from Canada, his establishment in Canada, his family ties in Canada and the hardship that he would face if he loses his status.

If it is determined that he still has not met the residency obligation and is inadmissible, he may apply to the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD) for a residency appeal. Even if he is found to not have met the residency obligation,

had a consultation with a kababayan recently regarding her father who obtained his PR card in 2016 and will expire in 2021. He stayed in Canada for 12 months only and returned to the Philippines to look after his properties. Last year, he decided to return to Canada for good however, due to COVID-19 he could not travel. Obviously, he did not meet the residency requirement, but he really wants to return to Canada and live here permanently. Let us first tackle the residency obligation of a permanent resident of Canada. I checked with IRCC and I don’t see any special policy for those who will not meet their residence obligation while outside Canada, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 travel ban does not apply to permanent residents, which is the case here of the kababayan who is stuck in the Philippines. One does not automatically lose PR status simply because they don’t meet the residence obligation. Let us look at Immigration and Refugee protection Act (IRPA) section 46 and I quote: Permanent resident • 46 (1) A person loses permanent resident status o (a) when they become a Canadian citizen; o (b) on a final determination of a decision made outside of Canada that they have failed to comply with the residency obligation under section 28; o (c) when a removal order made against them comes into force; o (c.1) on a final determination under subsection 108(2) that their refugee protection has ceased for any of the reasons described in paragraphs 108(1)(a) to (d); o (d) on a final determination under section 109 to vacate a decision to allow their claim for refugee protection or a final determination to vacate a decision to allow their application for protection; or All photos and articles available online. Follow us

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AFJ Family | Editor's Corner | Business

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2021 It implies that the “I love my own…This is mine… That is ours mentality” is an extremely extrinsic manifestation of social neurosis.

EDITOR’S CORNER Lito Mendoza Velasco Published by Angeles Publishing Company Inc. 246 Lindsay Crescent, Edmonton, Alberta T6R 2T2 Jose L. Angeles Publisher / Chief Operating Officer Sales and Advertising CP: 780-916-7677, Landline: 780-988-8889 Fax: 780-988-2221 publisher@albertafilipinojournal.com Lito Mendoza Velasco Editor-in-Chief/Associate Publisher 780-655-5126 editor@albertafilipinojournal.com Lianne Angeles Associate Editor Melanie Rose Atizado Angeles Administrator/Office Manager Sales and Advertising, 780-993-5503 albertafilipinojournal79@gmail.com Mark Angeles, Mike Angeles Distribution Managers - Edmonton Andy Chua Marketing Manager - Edmonton +1 (780) 965-3549, fcchua@hotmail.com Maria Visconde Advertising, Sales and Marketing Manager - Calgary 403-891-9328 or 403-608-8817 Stephen Burry Distribution Manager - Calgary 1 (587) 938-3100, Freedommigrate@gmail.com Rolan Latorre Marketing Manager

Private Property or Ownership: The Root Cause of Conflict, Clash or Division

The Process of Fitting-In: Synthesis So please, stay meek and humble of heart. Try to be submissive to Reason and abide by the law of your

organization and nation. Mutual respect and the reciprocity of love shall be the reigning powers. Our familial orientation is, of course, not an exemption. What sustains the harmony in marriage is not always the loving partner but the submissive one. “Nothing fits together without substantial effort.”

obody solely owns an organization, a town, or a nation. Instead, the members and their officers are owned by the organization, town, and nation where a person belongs. Ownership is obviously the initial stage of dichotomy resulting in societal turmoil or social unrest, especially when a person is swallowed by his pride and blindfolded by jealousy. Look what will happen to an entire pizza when everyone is greedily taking a portion of their share.

Melanie C. Gomez Website/Graphic Designer Moses Billacura, Noli Granado Photographers/Videographers Columnists: Marjorie Carmona-Newman, Tito S. Venida, Ida Beltran-Lucila, Kristian Cereno, Marco Luciano, Moses Billacura, Mervin Mendoza Cereno, Nicky Gocuan, Giselle General, Hermo Pagtakhan, Januel Cedrick Ibasco, Fr. Jhack Diaz, Bing J. Jaleco, Jon Perez (Saskatoon, SK) Contributing Writers: Katrina Marielle U. Cereno, Leonila Samarita, Raquel Getigan, Jasmine-Grace Nacu The Alberta Filipino Journal is dedicated in memory of Rosalinda Linsangan Natividad-Cantiveros of Winnipeg as she engaged her entire life in service to the Filipino Community. We welcome submissions-news, articles, pictures and letters. Letters must include signature and phone number; names can be withheld upon request. We reserve the right to edit for length and content. All submissions, unless arrangements are made, become the property of the publisher. Reproduction of contents, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited without the expressed written permission from the Publisher/Editor. Opinions by columnist, writers, and readers do not in any way reflect those of the Publisher/Editor.

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THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

Sports

NOVEMBER 2021 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

EUBA fund-raising, PBA 3x3, Orquez brothers and Dunn SPORTS JOURNAL

Moses Billacura mocolumnist @albertafilipinojournal.com Moses Billacura was a sports correspondent for national newspapers in the Philippines since 1992 and served as sports editor and columnist for a community paper before moving to Canada in 2010. He loves photography, manages pinoyedmontonnews.com and strongly believes that sports development is for all.

hile we were away, Philippine Sports AssociationEdmonton president Gary Perpetua and his group members in the Edmonton United Basketball Association (EUBA) organized a fundraiser event last October 23 at the Fr. Michael Troy School involving three games between PBAC against Flip Hoops 1, Changes for Hope against Flip Hoops 2 and Crosstown Auto Centre against Troy Ballers. Gary said they raised around $5K. The last time this group of basketball leaders held a fund-raising

was for the volcanic eruption victims in Batangas. Good job, gentlemen! Mabuhay ang EUBA!. *** When Consul-General Zaldy Patron was in Edmonton, I asked him about the Calgary-based Filipino players who are supposed to play in the Philippines' UAAP but the Covid-19 pandemic, he said, has forced them to stay in Canada. I was watching the Basketball PH Rev on YouTube and Antonio Eusebio of Calgary was featured. Eusebio was very excited to play for the University of the Philippines in the UAAP but Covid-19 came and the UAAP was forced to suspend. If the UAAP resumes in February 2022, this high-flying and slam dunking Eusebio is a player to watch. ConGen Patron also mentioned about the Crisostomo brothers who were also recruited by another university in the Philippines for the UAAP. We wish these players the best and hopefully they will be in tip top condition when the UAAP gets going in February 2022. *** The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) is launching a 3x3 league on Nov.20 and Edmontonbased Peter Esclamado said he has a nephew playing for the Northpoint Batang Pier. Six-foot-four Mark Anthony Olayon hopes to make his mark in the pro league as he teams up with LA Revilla, Jervy Cruz and Jeepy Faundo. The Covid-19 has indeed changed

how the PBA is conducting their leagues. First, it was a PBA Bubble, now it's 3x3, which I find will be more exciting with 13 teams entered. *** I had a lovely conversation with the Orquez brothers, Virlou and Virson, talented basketball players in the Filipino community. Virlou, if not for the pandemic and the rescheduling of the UAAP in the Philippines, would have been showing his wares for the Adamson University. Virson, on the other hand, has been seeing action for the Crosstown Auto Centre squad and other teams wanting his services. It's good to see them in good shape and no injuries. Virlou said they continue to work out and practice, so that when the big university tournament resumes in the Philippines, he will be ready. For the meantime, it's online studying. Good too see you Orquez brothers! I also noticed one young player, Dunn Pangilinan, who is actually a bright prospect for the big leagues. Dunn is suiting up for the St.Albert Squad in the ongoing Maharlika Rajah Cup. Keep up the good game Dunn! That is why we are very lucky here in Alberta Province having Pinoy organizers who are passionate in conducting tournaments for our young Filipinos including those not so young anymore, LoL. With vaccinations and following health guidelines, the tournaments have resumed with a limited number of teams which is a good sign that we are getting back to "normal". You see, watching local basketball tournaments maintain my "sanity".

Calgary's Diesmos wins silver in Quebec Open Calgary's Isla Diesmos placed second in the U16 52-kilogram division of the 2021 Quebec Judo Open. Diesmos first trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and earned honors in various tournaments that caught the attention of CTV News. She is an anti-bullying advocate.

For one, you get to fellowship with your Kababayans, second, you watch exciting games for free and three, I get the chance to chronicle their tournaments for the Alberta Filipino Journal or Pinoy Edmonton News Dot Com. Without it, it is so boring. So, you Covid-19! Stay away! Now!

SkinLueur Aesthetics & Laser Centre advances to next round of `Rajah Cup' By Moses Billacura

ST. ALBERT --- SkinLueur Aesthetics and Laser Centre advanced to the next round after trouncing St. Albert Squad, 106-85 in the 2021 Maharlika Basketball Association's "Rajah Cup", Nov. 13, at the L.E. Hole school gym, here.

SkinLueur waxed hot in the third quarter scoring 33 points against St. Albert Squad's 16. After that, SkinLueur never looked back in the last quarter. Alferne Ceriño topscored with 27 points.

SkinLueur's Alferne Ceriño looks for an open man as he is about to be closely guarded by two defenders in the 2021 Maharlika's "Rajah Cup", Nov. 13 at the L.E. Hole school gym in St. Albert.(Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

Ceriño, John Yap and Mark Tagata led the attack in the third quarter as they combined for 28 points. Kevin Basalo led the losing side with 27 baskets and Dunn Pangilinan added 23 points.

She shifted to judo and her training bore fruit with a silver medal win in Montreal. Isla was accompanied by her father Jeff along with the Alberta Judo Team members who also reaped medals. (Moses Billacura with reports from Kristela Diesmos)

*** To our Kababayans, I may or may not be able to cover your events, but you can email your tournament results to mocolumnist@albertafilipinojournal. com. Maraming salamat po!

"We are very happy with this win," said team leader Jeff Bacug. The Doc Chum-managed squad hopes to get another win with a complete line-up to keep on advancing to the next round of the tournament organized by Jonas Iral and his team with the backing of Canada Snow Plow, Echo Insulation and Pamilya Masahista. Iral said they will have an All-Star game on Nov. 20 including a three-point shooting contest and skills challenge. "We would like to add up some excitement to the league," he said.

SkinLueur's fighting 8, (left-right) Wayne and Israel Agbang, Jeff Bacug, Mico Ligaya, Brandon Arruejo, Mark Tagata, John Yap and Alferne Ceriño. (Photo by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

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Sports | Community | Business

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2021 Cris Jamen Lumen Clementer Kristian Villanueva

Ilonggo Brothers united in basketball Ivan James Espaldon organized pick up games with his fellow Ilonggo brothers. With just a few friends at first, they are now able to assemble enough players to organize the only Ilonggo Friendly League with the help of

businessman Tata Montano of Montano Plumbing & Contracting Ltd. Espaldon led the committee and formed a pool of referees. The league kicked off last August. He said he is very grateful that they can play together and strengthen

their friendships as fellow Ilonggos in Edmonton. "Team Palangga" Jhade Provido Bryne Dave Deoel John Villamor Erwin Moises Kelvin Latchica Feb Villamor Jaypee Gallenero Sakuragi ng Edmonton Step marie

The champion, "Team Mainuswagon" Roy Espallardo Joven Mahanlud Humbert Cabreza Othello Poral Miguel Poral Gian Jumilla Didy Santiago Kobe George Zuniega Roberto Deanon Mark Demwil Castanti

"Team Guwapohun" Domdom Arturo Seril Rafael Alitre Lemuel Montano Allan Palencia Ivan james Espaldon Jaime Mollenido Jojo Palomo Richard Haro Arbe Aguro Darwin Hidalgo Rey Mendoza Arnel Wilton Prudente Francisco de Leon Roy Calinga-on Organizing Committee JB Palmejar Jboi Palmejar EJ Elisan Kristian Mollenido Jaime Mollenido President or organizer of Ilonggo brothers, Vankarz20 and Ivan James Espaldon (Moses Pabilona Billacura with reports from Nicky Gocuan/Phil. Media Association of Alberta)

BBM-Sara Caravan on Nov. 21 in Calgary Filipino-Albertans supporting Bongbong Marcos and Sara Duterte will hold a caravan on Nov. 21 in Calgary. Duterte Volunteers Alberta chairman Benjie Lindo, who was been travelling in the province last year to reconnect with Duterte supporters, said that it is about

time to show support to the tandem. Marcos, a former senator, is running for president in 2022 while Duterte, Davao City's ongoing mayor, is a vice-presidential candidate. Lindo said the caravan will start at 10 a.m. at Eliston Park. (Moses Billacura)

SkinLueur Aesthetics & Laser Centre support `Kuya Jobert' show on Dec. 10; Dine-in promo still ongoing

Doc Chum (left) and sister Doucette with Palabok House Restaurant's Lydia Jimenez (center).(Contributed photo)

Jobert Austria, better known as the comedian Kuya Jobert, is coming to Edmonton to entertain the Filipino community on Dec. 10. Kuya Jobert, a former mainstay on ABS-CBN, is now based in Calgary. www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

Filipino-owned SkinLueur Aesthetics & Laser Centre has thrown its support to the show, which will be held at the Max's Restaurant. Meanwhile, SkinLueur's $20 off on its services are still ongoing.

CEO Chum Ardaniel said those who dine at Palabok Restaurant and spend a minimum of $100 are eligible for the $20 off on their services.

THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

Points of View | Opinion | Business

NOVEMBER 2021 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Living in a post-pandemic world W

hat will the post-pandemic world look like? This is the question that many people have asked since Covid-19 first ravaged cities and towns across the world. There have been 1.74 million total cases in Canada, with 29,203 deaths so far. In Alberta, total cases stand at 328,000, with 3,159 deaths. In the Philippines, there are presently 2.8 million cases, with 44,521 deaths, although some will argue that these numbers may be lower than the actual count. By whichever standard we go by, these numbers are still higher than what we would want them to be. And as Covid-19 continues to infect and claim lives, we reflect on how we survived the pandemic, what lies beyond the fourth wave, and what a post-pandemic world will look like. Like some places around the world, Alberta has raced to reopen for business in a bid to return to normalcy. Like some of these places, Alberta has stumbled as a result of its haste. The province paid the price as cases spiked in the summer after the provincial government put up the proverbial “open for business” sign. We saw the same thing happen in Saskatchewan. I f there is one thing we learned

VIEWPOINT

Bing J. Jaleco bingjaleco@yahoo.com Raleigh “Bing” Jaleco was a veteran journalist and public relations consultant in the Philippines. He started out as a correspondent for Ang Pahayagang Malaya and then moved on to be a reporter, and then an editor, of The Manila Chronicle. He also served as news editor of The Manila Standard, business editor of The Manila Times, and sub-editor at the Manila Bulletin. He landed as a permanent resident in Canada in 2016.

from the pandemic, it is that science must be a primary consideration when drawing up policies and programs for a post-pandemic world. It is disheartening to hear and see some of our leaders try to shortcut the process at the expense of valuable scientific data and information. Good science

(as opposed to flawed science) should be used and mobilized when drafting those economic recovery policies. Public health officials and medical experts are the military strategists and tacticians who map out and wage war against Covid-19. By this analogy, a war waged by politicians will often result in defeat. A post-pandemic world will most likely look like the same world we lived in before Covid-19. But there will be changes in public policy, particularly in public health, that will—or should—heavily influence how we will live our post-pandemic lives. We will be strongly encouraged to frequently wash our hands; wear masks where and when appropriate; and be aware of symptoms that indicate an infection. Everyone wants to get back to “regular programming,” regardless of their political color. And we should go back to our normal lives, but with an understanding and an appreciation of the “new normal,” the new reality that will impact our lives well beyond Covid-19. Hindsight is always 20/20, and we must learn our lesson if we are to move on and go back to the lives put on pause by the pandemic. There is an abundance of lessons to be learned, not just by public officials and politicians but by ordinary people as well.

We were on the brink of a public health catastrophe as hospitals became war zones. ICUs across Canada were stretched to the very limits, and it could have gone from worse to worst overnight. We are thankful it did not, but if we look ahead to the future and conjure scenarios of more viruses emerging, stealthier and deadlier than Covid-19, we should ask ourselves: are we ready?

Men’s Health Awareness Month JAN THE MAN’S NOTE

Januel Cedrick Ibasco

Januel Ibasco is a proud FilipinoCanadian who is a current law student at the Thompson Rivers University’s Faculty of Law and a graduate of the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation. Januel enjoys giving back to his community through volunteering for multiple not-for-profit organizations. In his free time, he also enjoys the outdoors as he is an avid golfer and hiker. He is a huge Oilers fan and loves to talk about anything sports!

have written on Movember in the past, but it has become more than just to raise awareness surrounding testicular and prostate cancer. Behind the facial hair some men choose to creatively grow in support of ‘no shave November’ is the mental health struggles many identifying males have internalized as society has taught them all their lives. Masculinity is not inherently detrimental, but the way society has created this traditional masculinity ideology of what it means to be a man is what has created this toxic masculinity culture. We first have to

understand what toxic masculinity is and it can be defined as “a cultural concept of manliness that glorifies stoicism, strength, virility, and dominance, and that is socially maladaptive or harmful to mental health” (https://www.dictionary. com/browse/toxic-masculinity 2021). Common examples of this start early in childhood with phrases such as “man up,” “boys don’t cry,” and “you have to be big and strong.” These masculine stereotypes push young boys to be in a box of what it means to be a man and inversely devalues anything else that is ‘feminine’. As these young boys grow up, they continue to try and fit into this box and can be internally struggling but not seeking help because they see that as a form of weakness. A part

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of Movember is bringing awareness to the prevalence of suicide in males. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention released that in 2019, men died by suicide three times as often as women (https://afsp.org/ suicide-statistics/ 2021). Statistics like this should make us rethink what our ideas of what a man should and can be, and create a safe space for all people to be themselves no matter what that is. Having a month dedicated to what used to be taboo topics starts an open dialogue and is the first step to meaningful change. As many social media posts have shared, to all the men out there: know that it’s okay to ask for help, to cry, to be vulnerable, to go to therapy, and it is okay to talk about your feelings. www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

Opinion | Education

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2021

Continuing Demands of Migrants MIGRANTS' VOICES

Marco Luciano mluciano2@gmail.com Marco Luciano is the Global Council Representative of Philippine based Migrante International. He is also the current Secretary General of its chapter Migrante Canada.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made major changes when he announced his Cabinet on October 26th. One of the only two Liberal MPs elected, Randy Boissonnault made the cut. The MP returnee from Edmonton Centre was appointed as the Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance. There’s also a newly appointed Immigration Minister. Sean Fraser is a newcomer from Nova Scotia. As the new Immigration Minister was appointed, migrant advocates did not waste any time in making their demands heard. Their call is for the government to immediately ensure Permanent Resident status

for every resident in the country today, and to ensure that all future migrants arrive with Permanent Resident status. Canada has shifted to a system of permanent temporariness: By December 30, 2020, there were at least 1,146,008 migrants on temporary permits. There are at least 500,000 undocumented individuals, compared to only 184,000 new permanent residents in the same year. Over 1.6 million migrants in the country–1 in 23 residents–face exclusions and exploitation every day. The Migrant Rights Network, a national coalition of advocates said that“in order to build a fair society and ensure a genuine recovery from the pandemic, migrants must have permanent residency so that they have the same rights and protections as other residents”. They added that “In order to enable this, the following steps must be taken: • First, the federal government must meet with migrant organizations like ours to establish an immigration system that works for everyone and prioritizes the best interests of migrants; • Second, a comprehensive regularization process must be created for all migrants in the country to get permanent resident status or citizenship, without any exclusions on the basis of work history, previous immigration status, health status, previous access to social assistance, criminality, or any other language or educational requirements. As an immediate measure, all migrants in Canada should get immediate and open

work authorization and full access to basic entitlements; • Third, a moratorium on detentions and deportations must be instituted to ensure undocumented people applying for status are protected; and • Fourth, all working class migrants arriving to Canada in the future should arrive with Permanent Resident status if they so choose.” In addition, the coalition also said that “there are several concrete and immediate policy changes that must be instituted in order to protect the health, well-being and safety of migrant and undocumented people, and to prevent the reversal of some important measures put in place during COVID-19”. They are calling on the new government to make the following changes in the first 100 days of their terms as Ministers. The list of demands the coalition is asking for are: 1. Ensure Safe and Dignified Access to Vaccination and Documentation for All Migrants 2. Fix the Permanent Residency Pathway System – This means fixing the Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident Program and removing the arbitrary caps and unfair eligibility requirements, adding allotted spots to the Agrifood Immigration Pilot. 3. Transform the Home Child Care Provider and Home Support Worker pilot programs - 1 in 3 migrant care workers lost their jobs during COVID-19, and are therefore unable to meet the work requirements

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau holds a news conference in Ottawa on Oct. 6. (Sean Kilpatrick/The Canadian Press)

necessary to apply. The network also suggested removing the cap, removing the unfair education and language requirements, and removing the requirement of 24 months of work experience. Over 12,000 care workers have PR applications stuck in a processing backlog as well, in some cases for over 5 years. 4. Fix the Humanitarian System – This means expedite and expand the refugee resettlement process, particularly expanding the government assisted refugee program, resettle refugees beyond those determined by the UNHCR and accept refugees who are still in their country of origin. The H&C process must be overhauled focusing on supporting migrants to gain permanent residency on humanitarian grounds rather than an adversarial process. 5. Stop Detentions and Deportations – The coalition is urging the government to immediately halt all removals.

They said that 2020 saw more deportations than the previous five years. 6. Fix Work Permit Rules and Ensure Decent Work – this means restrictions on work create a fundamental “power imbalance”. The coalition was also pushing to extend the restoration period: For most of COVID-19, migrants who were not able to renew their work permits were given an extended period There is a long list of demands from the coalition. Danilo Deleon, the current chairperson of Migrante Canada said “It’s important to be on top of it while the Trudeau government just installed its Cabinet”. Migrante Canada is a founding member of the Migrant’s Rights Network. “The government is accountable for the migrants in Canada. We came because we were invited to work. Now many of us have issues here and many are now undocumented,” he added.

How the Designation of “Engineer” in the Philippines compares to the Engineering and Geoscience Designation and Scope of Practice in Canada

n the Philippines, an Engineering Profession can be obtained after graduating from an accredited University or College that offers a

ENGINEER IN ACTION

Mervin Cereno, P. Eng. mmcereno@gmail.com Mervin Cereno is a Filipino immigrant in Canada. A FilipinoCanadian Engineer license to practice Engineering in Alberta and British Columbia. He is a Volunteer and Advocates to help Filipino-Canadian Engineers to pursue their Professional Engineering licenses in Canada.

Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering, which depends on the specific discipline. The Bachelor of Science in Engineering Degree can be completed in 5 years after satisfying all the academic requirements. Engineering is also a regulated Profession in the Philippines since an individual needs to pass the National Exam (Board Exam) to practice this Profession. A graduate of an Engineering Degree in the Philippines can work and practice their profession in this field under limited circumstances that she/ he cannot sign a plan or design without proper authority from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). An Engineering Degree in the Philippines is recognized in most Middle East countries. In the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, specific academic requirements must be satisfied before a Practice of Engineering is granted. For most International Educated Engineers (IEE) who are immigrants to Canada – their path to their professional practice must be clear on which

Reference: https://www.apega.ca/about-apega/publications/fact-sheets

regulating body they are covered. In Alberta, APEGA published a Fact Sheet for clarity for those “International Engineers” on what and how their profession is designated and what is the scope of practice for each designation. Below is the diagram that explains in simple terms how they will be practicing their profession in Canada where they call themselves “Engineers” in their home country. Take note that there is a very clear difference between an “Engineer” and a “Technologist” in Canada. In the Philippines, both of these can call themselves “Engineers”. Engineers are those who solve a complex problem using complex methodologies while technologists are those who work on routine problem-solving using established methodologies.

Graduates of any Engineering Degree in the Philippines can apply and be any of those in the diagram above. Their designation and scope of practice will depend on their academic evaluation and quality of experience they gain in the practice of their Profession. Their experience need not be in Canada as long as they can prove and explain the quality and nature of their experience. In Alberta, there are two regulating bodies – APEGA and ASET. In my past articles, I discussed the difference between these two Regulating Bodies. Internationally Educated Engineers can apply to any of these Certification bodies which they feel their academic and work experiences are suited. For more information on specific requirements, you can go to their respective websites or browse my past articles for guidance.

Happy Birthday Mervin! (Nov 29)

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Legal Tidbits | Community | Religion

NOVEMBER 2021 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Void ab initio-Marriage LEGAL CHIKA

Raquel P. Getigan Earned Bachelor of Laws degree at Manila Law College and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Philippine Normal University. She’s an educator by profession and Apprentice at Atty. Romeo Sese Law office.

hat were the circumstances that render a marriage null and void from the start? According to Westlaw, Void ab initio means, “Having no legal effect from inception. A law, agreement, sale, or other action that is void has no legal effect. A void action cannot be ratified or validated. An action that is void ab initio never had any legal effect. Ab initio is usually italicized because it is a Latin term that means from the beginning. Void and void ab initio have the same technical definition, but void ab initio is a stronger term that is less likely to be improperly confused with voidable.” Similarly, conferring with the Family Code of the Philippines (Executive Order No. 2009 as amended), there are several conditions which

REMEMBRANCE DAY 10 Quick Facts on... Remembrance Day 1. Remembrance Day was first observed in 1919 throughout the British Commonwealth. It was originally called “Armistice Day” to commemorate armistice agreement that ended the First World War on Monday, November 11, 1918, at 11 a.m.—on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. From 1921 to 1930, Armistice Day was held on the Monday of the week in which November 11 fell. In 1931, Alan Neill, Member of Parliament for Comox–Alberni, introduced a bill to observe Armistice Day only on November 11. Passed by the House of Commons, the bill also changed the name to “Remembrance Day”. The first Remembrance Day was observed on November 11, 1931. Every year on November 11,

FROM A VANTAGE POINT

Tito S.Venida FOUNDING FATHER

Tito S. Venida is a product of the University of the Philippines. He used to be a student-leader during his college days and became one of the founders of the Tau Gamna Phi, one of the world leading Philippine-produced fraternities. His immensurable love for the human race has brought him to the conviction of translating his mission from fraternity into Divinity--from a mere brotherhood into sainthood. Tito authored a book entitled Quocunque Jeceris Stabit, which means, wherever you throw, it will stand.

Canadians pause in a moment of silence to honour and remember the men and women who have served, and continue to serve Canada during times of war, conflict and peace. We remember the more than 2,300,000 Canadians who have served throughout our nation’s history and the more than 118,000 who made the ultimate sacrifice. The poppy is the symbol of Remembrance Day. Replica poppies are sold by the Royal Canadian Legion to provide assistance to Veterans. Remembrance Day is a federal statutory holiday in Canada. It is also a statutory holiday in three territories (Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut) and in six provinces (British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador).

render a marriage void from the beginning. • Art. 2. No marriage shall be valid, unless these essential requisites are present: - Legal capacity of the contracting parties who must be a male and a female; and Consent freely given in the presence of the solemnizing officer. (53a) • Art. 4. The absence of any of the essential or formal requisites under Art 3. Authority of the solemnizing officer; A valid marriage license except in the cases provided for in Chapter 2 of this Title; and A marriage ceremony which takes place with the appearance of the contracting parties before the solemnizing officer and their personal declaration that they take each other as husband and wife in the presence of not less than two witnesses of legal age. (53a, 55a) shall render the marriage void ab initio, except as stated in Article 35 (2).

• Art. 35. The following marriages shall be void from the beginning: - Those contracted by any party below eighteen years of age even with the consent of parents or guardians; - Those solemnized by any person not legally authorized to perform marriages unless such marriages were contracted with either or both parties believing in good faith that the solemnizing officer had the legal authority to do so; - Those solemnized without license, except those covered the preceding Chapter; - Those bigamous or polygamous marriages not failing under Article 41; - Those contracted through the mistake of one contracting party as to the identity of the other; and - Those subsequent marriages that are void under Article 53. • Art. 36. A marriage contracted by any party who, at the time of the celebration, was psychologically

In advance of the ceremony, long columns of Veterans, Canadian Armed Forces members, RCMP officers, and cadets march to the memorial lead by a pipe band and a colour guard. At the end of the ceremony, they march away to officially close the ceremony. Some of the 54 Commonwealth member states, such as Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia, observe the tradition of Remembrance Day on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. Other nations observe a solemn day but at

different dates. For example, ANZAC Day is observed in New Zealand on April 25. In South Africa, Poppy Day is marked on the Sunday that falls closest to November 11. Many nations that are not members of the Commonwealth also observe Remembrance Day on November 11, including France, Belgium and Poland. The United States used to commemorate Armistice Day on November 11. However, in 1954 they changed the name to Veterans Day.

https://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/remembrance/information-for/educators/quick-facts/remembrance-day

Laboriously, as far as we can, to preserve the peace that it be not broken, and to recover it when it is broken. When we hearken to proposals of peace for ourselves, we THE PEACEMAKERS. must also be ready to make peace The wisdom that is from above is for others. Where there is distance first pure and then peaceable. The among brethren and neighbors, we blessed ones are pure toward God must do all we can to accommodate and peaceable toward men. For with peace and be repairers of the breaches. reference to both, conscience must The peace process. The be kept void of pride and prejudice. making of peace is sometimes a The peacemakers are those who have: thankless office 1. A peaceable disposition. As, to and it is the make a lie is to be given and addicted lot of them to lying, so, to make peace is to who parts have a strong and hearty affection a fray often to peace. I am for peace (Proverbs to receive 120:7). It is to love, to desire and to blows from delight in peace. To be put in it as both sides. in our element—to study to show Yet, it is a ourselves approved unto God (2 good office Timothy 2:15) and shun profane and we must and vain babblings (2 Timothy 2:16). be forward to it. 2. A peaceable conversation. THE PROMISED

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incapacitated to comply with the essential marital obligations of marriage, shall likewise be void even if such incapacity becomes manifest only after its solemnization. • Art. 37. Marriages between the following are incestuous and void from the beginning, whether relationship between the parties be legitimate or illegitimate: • Art. 38. The following marriages shall be void from the beginning for reasons of public policy: It is desirable to be safer than sorry in these situations and conditions. Obtain all the feasible proof that your intended has never been married before, as this could lead to legal problems. Henceforward, contracting parties should be certain that they are ready with all requisites and formalities before entering the contract of marriage. Love is more divine without misgivings and hesitations.

The national ceremony is held at the National War Memorial in Ottawa. The Governor General of Canada presides over the ceremony. It is also attended by the Prime Minister, other government officials, representatives of Veterans’ organizations, diplomatic representatives, other dignitaries, Veterans as well as the general public.

The Attitude of a Peaceable Spirit OUR TEXT “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.” Matthew 5:9

BLESSING. They shall be called the children of God. It will be evidence to them that they are so. For God will own them as such and herein they will resemble Him. God is the God of Peace; the Son of God is the Prince of Peace; and the Spirit of adoption is a Spirit

of peace. Since God has declared Himself reconcilable to us all, He will not own those for His children who implacable in their enmity to one another. For if the peacemakers are blessed, woe to the peace breakers! The significance of this. Now, by this it appears, that the Lord Jesus Christ never intended the kingdom of God to be spread by fire and sword (though both are symbols of the Word of God), or penal laws, or to acknowledge bigotry, or intemperate zeal, as the marks of His disciples. The children of disobedience or of the world love to fish in troubled waters but the children of God are the peacemakers—the quiet in the land.

Happy Birthday Tito! (Nov 17) www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

Philippine News | Community | Business

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2021

It’s has been decided, PRRD files COC for senator not for VP

n Saturday, November 13, 2021, representatives of the president’s daughter, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, filed her certificate for the vice-presidential candidate of Lakas-CMD, former President Gloria Arroyo’s affiliated political party as a substitute for Lyle Uy. Last month, she discussed with Marcos how she could help his presidential bid. Now, the younger Duterte, who said earlier that she is open to running for the country’s top post, will be the running mate of former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos. In a resolution signed the same day, Marcos’s party Partido Federal ng Pilipinas, endorsed her candidacy. Meanwhile later that day, President Duterte also accompanied his close aide, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, who filed for the presidency after withdrawing his vice-presidential bid substituting for Grepor Belgica, under the Pederalismo ng Dugong Dakilang Samahan. During their interview, Communications Secretary Martin Andanar butted in which

baffled everyone when he said that President Duterte plans to file his candidacy on Monday, November 15, 2021, the last day to finalize bids for the 2022 polls. In a YouTube interview with Banat By aired Sunday, November 14, 2021, Duterte was asked about his plans after hinting that he will run as vice president in next year’s polls. Duterte answered, “I said in a matter of hours, you would know. I will make the announcement. Maybe. To show the people that I’m dismayed with what happened. I am not blaming her because we are not talking. Their decision that she will run as vice president is what I do not want.” President Rodrigo Duterte said he may run as vice president in the 2022 elections to show his dismay for his daughter Sara Duterte-Carpio’s participation in the race for the country’s second-highest position, a move which will possibly pit them against each other. Duterte said he was surprised that his daughter chose to run for vice president when surveys show

that she is the preferred candidate for the presidency. “Why would you run for vice president if you know you have an edge. You have a view in advance that you are stronger” he shared. The President was certain that Duterte-Carpio’s seeking the vice presidency was a decision made by Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. “I’m sure Sara’s vice-presidential run is Bongbong’s decision. I wondered, she was number 1 in surveys, why would she agree to run as vice president.

She has the higher rating” he added. Monday, November 15, 2021, the moment of truth. Beating the deadline for substitution, its final President Rodrigo Duterte filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) to join the senatorial race in the 2022 elections. After a lot of speculation about the much-awaited announcement President Duterte formalized his bid at the Commission on Election's main office in Intramuros, Manila City through Atty. Melchor Aranas,

who filed on his behalf under the Pederalismo ng Dugong Dakilang Samahan (PDDS), substituting for Liezl Visorde. PDDS, headed by chairman Greco Belgica, said that Duterte’s bid for senator is a “party decision.” In an ambush interview after his COC filing for senator, former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque hinted that the father and daughter would not compete for the same post.

Taken Nov. 11, 2021 after Duterte-Carpio took oath as Lakas-CMD. member. From left to right: Rep. Martin Romualdez; Davao City Mayor In Manila on Nov 13, 2021 Philippine, President Rodrigo Duterte with Sara Duterte-Carpio and Sen. Ramon "Bong" Revilla. (Mayor Indar Senator Bong Go after he filed his candidacy for president . PHOTO: AFP Sara Duterte/Facebook)

How to File Complaints to the City of Edmonton By Giselle General

ometimes, we see something in our community that doesn’t seem right, and something needs to be done in order to correct it. It could be a road that has not yet been plowed, a streetlamp that does not light up, or maybe, a potential bylaw that you are worried about. Is there anything we can do as average folk? Yes, absolutely! What areas of concern can you complain to the city about? It’s important to understand which areas are covered by the municipal, provincial, and federal government. The municipal government takes care of areas such as garbage collection, snow clearing, our residential roads, bylaws on various topics, our property taxes, and more.

What are the different ways to file these complaints? 1. 311 App – This is handy for instances where photographs are useful information. The 311 app by the City is available on both Android or Iphone, which is handy. Reporting vandalism, potholes, broken streetlamps, snow or ice that is not cleared on the roads, including homeowners and building owners who have been negligent with snow clearing, these can all be done on the app. When you take a photo, the report you file also tracks your specific location and you can also check the status of the reports you made. 2. 311 Call Centre and Email– You can call 311 from your phone if you are unsure of the right person to contact

or you need help with communicating. The Call Centre can provide language support for up to 150 languages, which is great. Or if you would like to send a more elaborate message, the email address is 311@ edmonton.ca. 3. Appropriate Department in the City - Do you have issues such as infill (when a lot is being divided into two smaller homes), the taxes for your home, or public transit? There is a dedicated department for that! The city’s website has become more user-friendly lately, and if you do a quick search by typing the words of

what you want to learn about, you will be directed to the right webpage and the appropriate contact person. 4. Your City Councillor or even the Mayor- From personal experience, our elected representatives or their administrative staff are quite approachable. Check your address to see which area you are under and who your elected representative is, at https:// www.edmonton.ca/city_government/ city_organization/find-my-councillor. aspx . Their contact information is available online at https://www. edmonton.ca/city_government/ city_organization/city-councillors. aspx . There are changes with the wards having Indigenous names now, not numbers, and the city has grown resulting in the boundaries for each ward changing as well. Here are the new ward names and city councillors. a. New Ward Names: i. Nakota Isga: Andrew Knck ii. Anirqniq: Erin Rutherford iii. Tastawiyiniwak Karen Principe iv. Dene: Aaron Paquette v. O-day’min: Anne Stevenson vi. Metis: Ashley Salvador vii. Sipiwiyiniwak: Sarah Hamilton viii. Papastew: Michael Janz ix. Pihesiwin: Tim Cartmell x. Ipiihkoohkanipiaohtsi: Jennifer Rice

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xi. Karhiio: Keren Tang xii. Sspomitapi: Susan Field 5. Attending a Council Committee Meeting or Public Hearing - I personally had the honour of speaking in front of city council during a public hearing, a special meeting arranged by council to listen to the general public and their perspectives about a decision they are about to make. Our municipal government has committee meetings, consisting of about roughly four councillors and maybe the mayor, that focus on specific topics, and they meet roughly monthly. There are also council meetings that consist of the entire council and they make decisions that require all of them, and they take place regularly as well. If you wish to speak in front of them during a specific meeting for a specific topic, that is possible! This link https://www.edmonton.ca/ city_government/council-committeemeetings.aspx can provide more information. We are lucky to have many means of communication with our government. From my personal experience, they actually do the best they can to respond. So, when you see something is not right, don’t be afraid to file an informative report so it gets solved!

THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

Community | Business

NOVEMBER 2021 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Unveiling, Blessing, and Saluting Rizal’s Monument in Airdrie

City Council of Airdrie, Alberta, Canada under the leadership of Mayor Peter Brown: Welcoming the Philippines’ National Hero Grand salute to Consul General Zaldy Patron for spearheading this historic event as well as the proponents and advocates of this endeavour. This is a replica of love stories from the past. For instance, Romeo and Juliet’s love never wavered,

Mayor Peter Brown, AFJ Publisher Jun Angeles, AFJ Columnist Ida Lucila, AFJ Editor Lito Velasco

through thick and thin. It could not be stopped, not even by sickness, danger, and death. This momentous event that took place last October 23, 2021 at the Nose Creek Regional Park in the City of Airdrie is tantamount to great love and heroism as it was undertaken even with torrential rain

and chilly weather bearing down on everyone (rain or shine). It only shows how Dr. Jose Rizal’s death, his sacrifice in order to emancipate our country from tyranny and slavery, has not been forgotten. Rather, it is embedded in every Filipino’s soul, with indelible character.

Dr. Josephine Pallard of Saranay Association of Alberta, Resty Reyes of Fly Friendly Travel, Jun Angeles of AFJ, president Bayani Alcantara of Philippine Business Society of Alberta, Celso Andrade of Anti-Racism Board in Alberta and Sunfreight Cargo, Atty. Joseph Angeles of Angeles and Associates law Office, and Alberta Filipino Journal Editor Lito Velasco

Photos by Lito Velasco

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2021

A Monument of a Filipino, for the Filipinos ARTOSPECTIVE - an artist’s point of view

Ida Beltran-Lucila ida_b_lucila@yahoo.com

ast October 23, 2021, the first Dr. Jose Rizal monument in Alberta and Western Canada was unveiled at Nose Creek Regional Park in Airdrie. This was a project of the Philippine Consulate General Calgary (PCGC) in partnership with the Airdrie City Council, the Filipino Airdrie Association, and the Rizal Monument Project Team. Despite the rainy and cold weather, the PCGC estimated 400 attendees from different parts of Alberta for the unveiling. Consul General Zaldy Patron remarked that the monument is the PCGC’s “humble way of honouring the Philippine national hero, paying tribute to the hard-working Filipinos in Alberta, and promoting Philippine heritage and culture”. It is the consulate’s biggest cultural diplomacy project to date. The Rizal monument is situated near the Gwacheon Park Totem Poles and will help showcase the cultural diversity present in the community, according to Airdrie Mayor Peter Brown. “The monument represents diversity, inclusiveness, and showcases Airdrie welcoming all people to our community,” he said. “The Dr. José Rizal Monument celebrates our collaborative efforts as a community and is a gift for future generations.”

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Rizal - Airdrie

Rizal - Winnipeg

Rizal - Toronto

Now part of the City of Airdrie’s public art collection, the Rizal Monument is a three-foot cast bronze bust of Dr. Jose Rizal mounted on a seven-foot pedestal covered with granite, on a 36’ x 38’ area, that includes commemorative plaques acknowledging the supporters of the project. Commissioned to create the bust was renowned Filipino multi-media artist Toym Imao - Abdulmari Jr. de Leon Imao, and son of internationally acclaimed artist Abdulmari Imao Sr., National Artist for Sculpture 2006. He was nicknamed Toym when his father won a Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) Award in 1968. Toym’s art career spans more than 30 years, with works in Vietnam, Canada, USA and Europe, aside from the Philippines. He is a sculptor, writer, set and production designer, and a filmmaker. Often commissioned to create historical monuments and shrines, his public artworks include: the Tandang Sora National Shrine in Quezon City; the Andres Bonifacio National Shrine in Maragondon, Cavite; the President Corazon A. Aquino Monument in Roxas Boulevard, Manila; the Honorio Lopez statue in Tondo; the Cordillera Freedom Monument in Baguio; and the Chapel of the Magnificat, Marist School, Marikina. Aside from the Dr. Jose Rizal statue in Airdrie, Alberta, he was the creator of Rizal statues in Carson City, California, in Montreal, Quebec, in Toronto and in Markham, Ontario. There are now five monuments dedicated to Dr. Jose Rizal in Canada, i.e. Airdrie, Montreal, Toronto, Markham and Winnipeg. The Markham monument was unveiled in 2019, in the Luneta Gardens located at the Boxgrove Community Park. Created by self-taught artist, Rizalist, and Markham resident Mogi Mogado, the cold cast bronze monument is six feet tall and installed on a seven-foot granite pedestal. The monument is across the road where Rizal Avenue in Markham begins. Mogado remarks, “The statue too is perfectly positioned with Rizal directly looking east at the sunrise…recalling his words continued on page 13 ►

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in Noli Me Tangere– ‘I die without seeing the dawn of my native land’…you who are left behind remember those who have fallen during the night.” In Montreal, the waist-length bronze bust without arms, was presented to the Ville de Montréal by the Philippine government in celebration of the centenary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence. One of 24 busts of Rizal cast by Toym Imao, which were offered to various cities around the world, it stands on a granite

pedestal in Parc Mackenzie-King, with a pathway of granite flagstones leading to it. On the pedestal are engravings in French, English and Filipino, on the role of Dr. Jose Rizal in the Philippine revolution. The monument in Toronto is also a waist-length bronze but without arms situated at Earl Bales Park. The Rizal Monument in Winnipeg, Manitoba was unveiled on August 24, 2020, hosted by the Knights of Rizal Winnipeg Chapter. The lifesize statue is installed in the Waterford Green Common right on Dr Jose Rizal Way, and created by Order of Manitoba recipient and nationally renowned artist Peter Sawatzky. In

Arts and Culture | Business addition to monuments, the City of Brampton has renamed a park in Sarno Road, to Dr. Jose P. Rizal Park. Dr. Jose Rizal is a patriot of the Philippine nationalist movement. A man of extreme intelligence, he was a polyglot - fluent in 22 languages - Hebrew, Filipino, Ilokano, Bisayan, Subanon, Chinese, Latin, Spanish, Greek, English, French, German, Arabic, Malay, Sanskrit, Dutch, Japanese, Catalan, Italian, Portuguese, Swedish and Russian. He was also a certified polymath, a person of

great learning in several fields of study. Rizal was a journalist, playwright, ophthalmologist, farmer, historian, painter, novelist, engineer and educator. He also had varying degrees of expertise in economics, ethnology, sociology, anthropology, architecture, cartography, martial arts, dramatics, fencing and pistol shooting. He was also a sculptor, working with wood, plaster, terracotta, wax and clay. To comment on this article, go to https://www. philippineartscouncil.com/blog.

Rizal - Montreal

Rizal - Markham

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Points of View | Business

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2021

End of the Journey of a First-Time Councillor Candidate Drive moving forward One thing I want to make clear is that this is the end of the journey of being a first-time candidate, not the end of the community involvement journey, and likely not the end of the political journey. If you think about it, if I run for public office, I will be

GENERAL POINT OF VIEW

a second-time candidate, with a better understanding of processes, and the unspoken rules of the political world. In the meantime, my focus is to resume all my community service activities that I am already doing to make our city better for everyone.

THE WONDER DOG:

He is not human but humane Giselle General gqgeneral@gmail.com Giselle General came from the cold, mountainous region on the Benguet province, and immigrated to Canada as a teenager in 2007. She completed a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Alberta, and has a career in the nonprofit sector. She works at the Edmonton Community Legal Centre, which provides free legal help to low-income Edmontonians. She channels her creativity by writing in her personal blog, FilipinaYEG, and self-published a book called The Humanity of Me, and is active in numerous volunteer-based initiatives.

he municipal elections are over and I wasn’t successful in my campaign to be city councillor for the city. I came in second place. Here is my preliminary reflection on the end of this journey. Relief in safety and campaign principles I was determined to run the campaign by following very important principles. These are: positivity, transparency, inclusiveness, collaboration, and care for community. As a result, some of the tasks in the campaign took extra time, such as properly preparing maps for volunteers, calculating fundraising numbers for the weekly social media posts,

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or adding subtitles to all videos for the benefit of people who are deaf. With that said, both during and after the elections, people have messaged me expressing their appreciation for my thoughtfulness. My actions made the election informative for the average person, and people from the disabled community appreciated that I went above and beyond to ensure they could access the digital content that I published. Another key component in my campaign wad safety, given the reality of COVID-19 and additional risks due to Anti-Asian Racism. Many times, I played it safe by avoiding entering homes with tall gates, not door-knocking alone, and being careful when walking through uneven landscaping and front steps. While other campaigns were doorknocking as early as March, I waited and closely observed the COVID numbers and the impact of changes in the rules. Sure, it meant I didn’t go to as many homes, but I’m glad that throughout the campaign, I didn’t get seriously ill or injured. Anguish at missing the goal and systemic hurdles Just like most people in the world who are ambitious and competitive, not winning definitely hurts for me. On top of that, I felt the weight and pressure of my endeavour, as the only Filipino candidate in the entire city for any municipal seat, after the other candidate withdrew.

I definitely would have been great if I achieved this important milestone for the community. My heartbreak at not winning is not just for me, it’s for the entire community. The optimistic side of me dismissed the idea that money plays a huge role in campaigns, but seeing it firsthand gave me a wake-up call. While I’m confident that I did everything I could to have a well-run campaign, it came to a point where certain gaps can only be filled by additional funds or additional people helping. With this realization in mind, I know what I will advocate for moving forward to help those like me with passion and drive to make positive changes in government, and need just a bit more resources to be successful. Marvel at the support, outcome, and generosity Since I don’t have in-depth experience that seasoned politicallyengaged people have, I don’t have context of the election outcome. All I know is I didn’t get enough votes and I lost. The cool thing is that many days after the election I received messages of kind words and As it turns out, getting 5000+ votes is a remarkable accomplishment for a first time candidate, and impressive, considering the budget I had. I am very grateful to those who supported the campaign, from the donations, those who made time to volunteer consistently, and those who gave advice.

Salute JUGHEAD, the Wonder Dog! November 4, 2021. While on a road trip in Jasper heading out from Maligne Lake, by Medicine Lake, couple Jojo and Ida Lucila were enjoying their 35th wedding anniversary by sight seeing and enjoying their surroundings. Suddenly, they saw other motorists (two young ladies) along the road who were in need of assistance. Without any hesitation, the couple got out of their car to help, leaving their Corgi Jughead, inside. Then the unexpected happened: the car doors automatically locked with their dog still inside. The key was still in the ignition, rendering them unable to open their vehicle. They panicked. The couple who tried to help found themselves also in need of help. All of them were banging on car doors willing Jughead

to stay awake when they saw him falling asleep. “Jughead! Wake up! It’s not the time to sleep!” The two ladies were so apologetic and tried to reciprocate help. They exerted efforts that lasted almost 45 minutes before the door was unlocked—unlocked not because of AMA or any roadside assistance. They had no chance of contacting these road assistance agencies as there was no cellphone signal. You know what? A miracle happened. Goodness is repaid with goodness. Jughead woke up and jumped on the door, miraculously unlocking it. Yay!!! Despair turned into triumph. It must have been something to see all these people panicking while the dog kept his cool and saved the day.

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City Government Update | Business

Review The City’s 2022 budget Have your say on tax rates, user fees and investments to help us make important decisions about The City’s 2022 plans and budgets.

See the 2022 plans and budgets at calgary.ca/respond

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2021

A simple glimpse of the past and a political recollection By Lito Velasco

“Kaya pa ba nating lumahok sa political arena, katulad ng ginawa ni Mayor Sohi?” So proud to let the world know that the mayor-elect of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada became my number 1 motivator to run as the Member of the Parliament for Edmonton-Wetaskiwin during the 2019 Federal Election. I grabbed the opportunity and tried to comply with the Liberal Party’s Greenlight Committee requirements. I really felt good being trusted by this dignified man-who happens to be our City Mayor now! If I remember it right, I and AFJ’s Sports columnist Mo Billacura were attending Sohi’s fundraising event; when Amarjeet saw me, he rushed to approach me and said: “Lito, you are the man I have been looking for… I want you to

run as the Member of the Parliament!” I simply told him that I am not interested to become a politician. “ But, the Filipino community needs a representative, Lito. Think about it.” He added. After few days of contemplation, I realized that he had a good point. It was then that I decided to seek the pieces of advice from the Filipino elders and friends. I even asked my close friends’ support to door knock for a signature campaign during the nomination period. We were able to gather more than a thousand signatures. But still, I did not stop analyzing. Until I decided not to pursue because I had no enough fund to sustain the campaign. As the saying goes: “A campaign without a fund is not a campaign.” Second, I realized that Edmonton-Wetaskiwin is one of the

largest ridings in Canada that is hard to penetrate and better known as the Progressive Conservative’s Bailiwick with Mike Lake as my political adversary. “Para akong babangga sa pader!” Hahaha Sa pulitika, hindi lang dapat natin alam kung gaano tayo kalakas. Dapat ay alam natin ang pwersa ng babanggain natin. Aalamin din syempre natin kung ang kapwa natin Filipino ay susuporta sa atin o hindi!” Dahil hindi sapat ang 1000 boto upang manalo bilang Member of the Parliament. Ang matindi, may magsasabi na: “Ipapahiya lamang ni Lito ang Filipino Community… He is a disgrace to the Filipino community!” Nakakapalakas ng loob na comment di po ba? Hahaha Ganunpaman, i really admire the ‘will power’ of this person who kept on

Congratulations Mayor Sohi!

Photo by Lito Velasco

contacting and meeting me for over a cup of coffee just to reiterate the reason that a Filipino community has to be represented to the government of Canada. I was so blessed having Mayor Sohi as one of my mentors. I can testify, he is so selfless. I do not mean to argue with those people who do not like him. I am speaking on my behalf. At this juncture, I would like to personally congratulate Amarjeet Sohi, our newly elected mayor of Edmonton City, Alberta, Canada! I would also like to challenge our fellow Filipinos (kababayans): “Kung kaya n’ya, kaya din ba natin?” Saludo ako kay Giselle General! Ibinandera niya ang ating lahi ng lumaban siya bilang Konsehal sa Sipiwiyiniwak. Hindi man siya pinalad; subalit siya ang pangalawa. Hindi na masama para sa isang baguhan sa pulitika. Let’s all bear these in our minds: 1. “It is better to tey and fail than fail to try.” 2. “A Country is transformed not by great men with small views; but by small men with great views.” www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

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NOVEMBER 2021 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Community | Business

Knights of Columbus Nazareno Council 12904 Offers Memorial Mass

n the celebration of its 20th Council Anniversary, the Nazareno Council under incumbent Grand Knight Leogardo Guevarra, established the first Memorial Mass honouring and remembering by prayers its deceased Brother Knights, their wives, and their children. This is the first Memorial Mass initiated by Bro. Julito Reyes, adviser and consultant of the Council, and will continue with a yearly remembrance of their departed members. The

mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Varghese Mundeville, Council Chaplain and Assisted by Deacon Gemelo Mella. The celebration coincided with Canada's Remembrance Day on November 11, 2021. Notable was the presence of the State Deputy of Alberta, Ferdinand Y Mendita who gave short remarks. Bro. Roberto Croteau recited John McCrae’s poem, In Flanders Field, accompanied by Aleeah Suce before the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. Edward Rotea and his father Ernie Rotea is joined by Jun Angeles to hold the candles in memory of Gloria Rotea.

Candle Ceremony at St. Anthony Parish Church

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The prayer warriors: Conrad Bitangcol offers prayer in memory of his wife Gigi; Laura Damo offers prayer in memory of her husband Efren; and Jun Angeles holds the candle and says a prayer in memory of his wife Hermie.

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Community

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2021

Grand Opening of the very first Potato Corner in Winnipeg at St. Vita Mall From left to right: Mr. JP Sumbillo; the Honourable Jon Reyes, Minister of Economic Development and Jobs; Spudster the Mascott; the Honourable Kevin Lamoreux, Member of Parliament; the Honourable Mr. Orontes V. Castro, Philippine Consul General of Toronto; Mr. Mon Opina, Philippine Honorary Consul of Winnipeg; Ms. Estrella Rodriguez, owner of Potato Corner Canada; and Mr. Nelson Rodriguez, owner of Potato Corner Canada.

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THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

Opinion | Business

NOVEMBER 2021 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

“Question Everything: The Story of the 5 Monkeys” HUWAG PAGTAKHAN! (“DON’T MARVEL at MR. MARVEL”)

Hermo Toribio Reyes Pagtakhan hermopagtakhanlaw@ hotmail.com Cell: (780) 905-9288 Hermo Toribio Reyes Pagtakhan of Edmonton, Alberta is a Lawyer who had practised for more than 25 years in the Philippines and in Alberta and thereafter, was an Index Options Trader in Wall Street. He is currently a Family Counselor with Arbor Memorial Gardens whom he joined in 2013. Hermo is also President of PROXSMART GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES and of NOTIFY GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES which develop Mobile Apps for Digital Marketing and Contactless Technologies which enable Businesses to operate their businesses and at the same time keep their Employees and Clients safe from Covid19 Contamination.

ave you ever heard the story of the 5 Monkeys Experiment? It may sound familiar when you think of your organizational culture. It goes like this: 5 monkeys were placed in a cage as part of an experiment. In the middle of the cage was a ladder with bananas on the top rung. Every time a monkey tried to climb the ladder, the experimenter sprayed all of the monkeys with icy water. Eventually, each time a monkey started to climb the ladder, the

other ones pulled him off and beat him up so they could avoid the icy spray. Soon, no monkey dared go up the ladder. The experimenter then substituted one of the monkeys in the cage with a new monkey. The first thing the new monkey did was try to climb the ladder to reach the bananas. After several beatings, the new monkey learned the social norm. He never knew “why” the other monkeys wouldn’t let him go for the bananas because he had never been sprayed with ice water, but he quickly learned that this behaviour would not be tolerated by the other monkeys. One by one, each of the monkeys in the cage was substituted for a new monkey until none of the original group remained. Every time a new monkey went up the ladder, the rest of the group pulled him off, even those who had never been sprayed with the icy water. By the end of the experiment, the 5 monkeys in the cage had learned to follow the rule (don’t go for the bananas), without any of them knowing the reason why (we’ll all get sprayed by icy water). If we could have asked the monkeys for their rationale behind not letting their cage mates climb the ladder, their answer would probably be: “I don’t know, that’s just how it has always been done.” This story, whether real or a fable, captures a pervasive theme in many organizational cultures: We tend to do things the way we’re told they’ve always been done without questioning or revisiting the reason behind it, even long after that reason ceases to exist. What lesson can be learned from the monkey experiment? The five monkeys experiment,

therefore, teaches us that we need to be constantly challenging ourselves to look at things from a new light, to question things that don't always feel right, and to avoid using the excuse of “we've always done it this way” to avoid trying new things and branching out in new directions. Do you feel like a caged monkey in your current work environment? Here’s some advice as it relates to organizational culture:

Next time someone tells you “that’s not how we do things”, ask them why. If they can’t tell you, tell them about the 5 monkeys!

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Philippine Consular Updates

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2021

PHILIPPINE CONSULAR INFO SERIES

Suite 920, 517 10th Ave SW, Calgary AB, T2R 0A8 ▪ Tel: 403-455-9346; 403-455-9457 10 November 2021, Calgary – Consul General Zaldy Patron visited the University of Alberta (U of A) in Edmonton, Alberta, on 1 November 2021 and met with its President and Vice Chancellor Bill Flanagan. During their meeting, Consul General Patron thanked President Flanagan for accepting three scholars of the Philippine’s Department of Science and Technology (DOST) under the Graduate Scholarship Program (GSP) that the U of A and the DOST signed in March 2019. President Flanagan, on the other hand, thanked Consul General Patron for helping facilitate the partnership between the DOST and U of A. Following the signing of the said agreement, the Edmontonbased university, one of the top universities in Canada, has seen an increased number of Filipino students applying for post-graduate programs at the U of A. Consul General Patron and President Flanagan also discussed other potential areas of cooperation between the Philippines and the U of A.

Consul General Zaldy Patron (left) and University of Alberta President and Vice Chancellor Bill Flanagan during their meeting on 1 November 2021.

Philippine Consulate General, Calgary www.philcongencalgary.org

Consul General Zaldy Patron (2nd from right) with the DOST scholars in U of A, namely Mr. Danielito Dollete (extreme left), Karla Cristina Pagao Cruz (2nd from left), and Shienna Marie Pontillas (extreme right).

“KAPIHAN WITH PH CONSUL GENERAL” held in Edmonton, Alberta 10 November 2021, Calgary – During his recent visit to Edmonton, Alberta, Consul General Zaldy Patron hosted a “Kapihan with the Consul General” on 1 November 2021. Thirty-six (36) leaders of the Filipino community in Edmonton, representing at least 12 organizations, attended the event that was held at the Filipino restaurant Cebuchon. During the Kapihan, Consul General Patron briefed the community leaders about the accomplishments of the Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Calgary in 2021 and its plans and programs for 2022. Consul General Patron shared with the community leaders the improvements that the PCG has instituted to enhance its delivery of consular services. These include the PCG’s transfer to a bigger and more spacious office in May 2021; the use of the Department of Foreign Affairs’ passport online appointment system that allows a quicker processing of passport application; the availability of more passport appointment slots daily; and the conduct of seven consular outreach missions this year. He also informed them about the completion of the Dr. José Rizal Monument in Nose Creek Regional Park in the City of Airdrie, the first Rizal monument in Alberta. The PCG initiated and led the implementation of the historic project, which is also the PCG’s biggest cultural diplomacy project to date. Likewise, Consul General Patron highlighted the PCG’s promotion this year of the Department of Foreign Affairs’ Fiesta Filipinas online festivals in partnership with selected Filipino media programs in Alberta and www.AlbertaFilipinoJournal.com

Consul General Zaldy Patron and some of the attendees at the Kapihan with the Consul General in Edmonton on 1 November 2021. (Photo credit: Mo Billacura)

Saskatchewan, and the PCG’s partnership with the Calgary-based Binhi ng Lahi for the Sining Filipinas online lecture series. Consul General Patron discussed the PCG’s education cooperation program that successfully linked the University of Alberta with the Philippine Department of Science and Technology, and the University of Saskatchewan with the Philippine Commission on Higher Education. He also explained the PCG’s advocacy for the easier recognition of credentials of Filipino

Consul General Zaldy Patron (middle) with Mr. Jun Angeles (left) of the Congress of the Philippine Associations of Alberta and Mr. Tony Surtida (right) of the Council of Edmonton Filipino Associations during the Kapihan with the Consul General in Edmonton. (Photo credit: Mo Billacura)

nurses in Alberta and Saskatchewan, as part of the joint program of the Philippine Embassy in Ottawa and the Philippine Consulates General in Calgary, Toronto and Vancouver. In June 2021, the PCG also joined the Philippine Foreign Service Posts in Canada in their “Proudly Philippines, Proudly Filipino” social media campaign. This year, the PCG also started to offer a

briefing for Filipinos who are planning to take the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP). For 2022, the PCG plans to further improve its delivery of consular services and implement several projects under its cultural diplomacy and economic diplomacy programs.

Consul General Zaldy Patron discussing the PCG’s accomplishments in 2021 and its plans and programs for 2022. (Photo credit: Mo Billacura) THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

NOVEMBER 2021 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Filipino Leaders in Alberta Must Unite

omething beautiful happened recently in Edmonton. Consul General Zaldy Patron met with all the different leaders in the City of Edmonton to exchange views with Filipino Leaders in the City and announced upcoming projects and plans of the Philippine Consulate.

JUST LISTEN

Nicky Gocuan, PMAA ngocuan@yahoo.com Nicky Gocuan has been a Columnist/ Photojournalist for over 15 years. He finished his Degree in Communication Arts at De La Salle University in 1990. After obtaining his University degree, Gocuan joined the Print Media and has contributed for The Philippine Star, Pilipino Star and later moved to Bagong Pinoy, where he wrote a regular opinion column. He also went on to write a showbiz column for The Tribune and Remate. Gocuan has experience in covering the Police beat, Political beat, and Entertainment beat before landing in the Sports beat. He later wrote a regular sports column for Remate Tonight. During this time, he was elected President of the Philippine Basketball Association Press Photographers Club (PBAPPC) for Two Terms and helped uplift the status of the group to become a part of the 5 Man Mythical Committee in the PBA. He is currently the President of The Philippine Media Association of Alberta (PMAA) and Host of a weekly radio program ‘The Fourth Estate” on Tala Luvz Radio in Calgary.

Unfortunately, we arrived late but we were able to exchange pleasantries with Consul General Patron and we were able to talk about what matters most to the Community. After our short conversation which came with a challenge, something beautiful happened. The Honourable Consul General grabbed the hands of the President of the Two Largest Filipino Organizations in the City. Everyone was smiling as they joined hands and AFJ Columnist / Photographer Moses Billacura was there at the right place to capture this significant moment. A lot of eyebrows were raised and most of the people in the restaurant were shocked as to what just transpired. It is a start to a new beginning. Why a new beginning? There is a need for better cooperation. There are too many Filipino Organizations in the City but we need the Two Largest Filipino Organizations to join hands to unite all the Organizations for the greater good of the Community. This is an ambitious task but it is not impossible. However, it really depends on what legacy our Filipino Leaders in Edmonton want to leave behind. It is a Tough Challenge that can only be overcome if we all help make it happen. It’s time to set aside differences. After all, nobody is perfect and everyone is on the same page when it comes to helping the City’s Filipino Community. If we all unite to form one big organization then our Community will be a force to be reckoned with. After all, there are already about 75,000 Filipinos in the City of Edmonton and a total of over 166,000 in the Province of Alberta. This is about 8% of the Total population based on 2016 Census numbers.

In Calgary, Filipino Leaders are holding their 2nd Alberta Filipino Leaders’ Conference this November 20 & 21. I applaud the efforts of the Organizers because they have reached out to the Filipino Leaders of the City of Edmonton. As a Political Columnist, I get to talk to a lot of people from different nationalities and politicians from different political parties and this is what their perception is. I will have to say it in Tagalog. Ayon sa mga politiko: “Malaki Ang Community ninyo pero watak-watak; kaya hindi kayo sineseryoso ng mga partido.” Iyan ang masakit na katotohanan na dapat natin harapin bilang mga Pilipino dito sa Alberta. Kahit marami tayo wala tayong boses dahil hindi tayo nagkakaisa. Kahit saan ka pa nagmula sa Pilipinas, ikaw ay Pilipino. Iyan ang passport mo noong dumating ka dito sa Canada. Kahit anong husay ng mga nurses natin, mga engineers natin, mga negosyante natin; kung may problema tayo, eh mahihirapan talaga tayong makahanap ng politiko na seryosong tutulong sa atin. Sa kadahilanan na hindi tayo nagkakaisa. While it is hard to unite leaders who have personal ambitions, leaders who truly care are willing to step back for the greater good of the Community. A true leader will still shine in the crowd even if they are hidden. So don’t be afraid to step back for the sake of unity. The challenge is who will initiate the move in order to make this happen that remains to be seen. I just hope this happens sooner rather than later. For your comments and reaction, please feel free to email us at tfehost@ gmail.com

Points of View | Foods and Lifestyle

THROUGH A TEENAGER’S EYES Kristian Cereno Kristian Gabrielle Cereno is a Grade 11 Student of Archbishop MacDonald Senior High School. His hobbies include writing poems, composing songs, acting and drama and a love of music. He plays piano and guitar and will soon learn to play the violin. Hockey? – Leave it to the Canadians.

Butterflies

monarch butterfly has a lifespan of two to six weeks. A caterpillar goes through a process called “metamorphosis” then becomes a cocoon that will soon turn into a butterfly. A monarch butterfly’s cocoon stage lasts about 8-12 days. We are like butterflies. We all have our stages in life. We have our childhood, our teenage days, and adulthood. Like butterflies, our life is also relatively short. Short but beautiful. Short but worth it. Butterflies are one of the most beautiful creatures in the world. Have you ever heard of the phrase, “You Only Live Once”? We all do only live once. Therefore we have to cherish and make the best out of it - do not take life too seriously; no one makes it out alive. Like butterflies, live your life to the fullest. Like butterflies, we are all beautiful. We may have obstacles in life, just like butterflies do. But as we spread our wings to fly and yearn for the sky, we will live a beautiful life. Butterflies probably do not know that they only live for a couple of months, yet they live their lives. Like butterflies, we should not worry about the bad things but live and experience the good. We all have our “metamorphosis” in life, an event that changes our life forever. We slowly grow from being a child into an adult - a life where more significant and more complex responsibilities await us. But like butterflies, we have to live our lives. Like monarch butterflies, we need to stay positive. A human’s “metamorphosis” may be harsh compared to butterflies - we have more things to worry about. But like butterflies that fly over the sky and perch atop a branch, we sometimes have to look at life from a different angle. We may have our highs and lows, but we have to look above and under. We all have our ups and downs, our highs and lows. We all have an event in life where we experience our “metamorphosis.” But do not forget that those moments will pass. Those moments are just temporary. It may affect us in the future, but sometimes, we just have to look at things from a different angle - from a different height. Like butterflies, maybe we just have to fly and soar high. Or perhaps we have to perch on something and stand our ground to figure it out. And as we live our lives, we should not forget that life is such a precious gift that we should not waste, and live our lives to the greatest extent by spreading our wings and riding the wind in the sky.

Easy Homemade Crepes KUSINA DIARIES

Leonila Samarita samleonila@gmail.com Leonila learned to take life in stride after realizing that life truly is what we make it. She believes that life, in every moment, brings opportunities for us to be better or do better. She is grateful. Finds joy in everything she does. She loves her life.

shared these crepes with a group of friends during a brunch picnic we had at Hawrelak Park early last month. It was a cool morning highlighted by the full display of beautiful autumn colours. It was the perfect time to enjoy a walk along the wooded trails of the River Valley with the friends. Tired and hungry after the long walk, eating brunch was the next best thing to do. Each family in the group contributed to a traditional Filipino breakfast of fried rice, tapa, longganisa, eggs, and some fresh tomatoes and cucumber. To complete the meal, I prepared my homemade crepes filled with Nutella, whipped cream and bananas for the perfect dessert. Lianne, our Associate Editor who was also with the group that morning, while eating her crepe, suggested that I should share the recipe here with everyone. And so here it is. Thanks, Lianne.

To cook the crepes, here is what you need: 1 cup all-purpose flour Crepes are the European relatives 1 ½ tbsp sugar of American pancakes. The difference Pinch of salt is that crepes are ultra-thin, more 2 large eggs at room temperature delicate and have those buttery crisp 1 ½ cups milk at room temperature edges. The batter is runny as opposed ½ tsp vanilla to the fluffy, soft and thicker batter 3 tbsp melted unsalted butter (plus 2 tbsp more for the pan) for pancakes. Crepes are easy to make and need only a few commonly available What to do: ingredients. Best of all, they are fun 1. In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, to eat because you can fill them and salt. Add eggs, ¾ cup milk and with anything. Just roll them up vanilla. Whisk until smooth. Add with your favorite sweet or savory remaining milk gradually while toppings. Peanut butter and bananas stirring constantly. Whisk in 3 tbsp or Nutella are my favourite fillings. of melted butter. Fresh berries, whipped cream, and 2. Cover and set aside to rest for 60 mins.You can also prepare the fruit jams go well with then too. Toppings like thinly sliced roasted batter at night and cook the next chicken or any kind of meat, bacon, day. It should be refrigerated. Note cheese, and some green vegies are that the butter will separate from good if you prefer something savoury. the mixture when you take it out You can serve them for breakfast, of the fridge, so leave at room snacks or as a dessert after a sumptuous temperature for 30 minutes, then meal. Kids and adults alike will love whisk or stir before cooking. 3. To cook, heat a medium size them.

non-stick pan and coat it with butter (you can use a brush to coat the pan with the melted butter). Pour in 2 to 3 tbsp of batter. The thinner the crepe the better, so gently move the pan in a circular motion to spread and stretch the batter as far out as it can go. Cook for 20 to 30 seconds and flip. Cook for another 10 seconds and remove from the pan. 4. You must coat the pan with butter in between each crepe. Cover the cooked crepes to keep them from drying out. 5. Serve with your favorite fillings. Enjoy!

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Para-legal Services | Points of View | Business

Love, not hate MUSINGS

Jon Perez jonperez13@gmail.com Jon Perez was a former sports and news reporter with the Saipan Tribune in the CNMI, one of three U.S. territories in the Pacific. He moved to Saskatchewan with his family in 2019.

SASKATOON—Black, brown, red, white, and yellow. These are the skin colours used to describe all human beings. Science, particularly the branch of biology genetics, state that all modern humans share a common ancestor. Whether you believe that or not, is up to you. So, if we share a common ancestor, why are there still people who judge a person based on the colour—how light, fair, or dark one’s skin is? Why do some people think that their skin colour or race is far superior than those who are different and don’t share their qualities? It has been like this for thousands of years. Comb through history and you will come across hundreds of stories where people judge others for being different. Indigenous Peoples were called savages by European settlers since they dressed different

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2021

and did not conform to the social norms that their society had. A few other examples are how people from Africa were made slaves and how the Jews were treated during the reign of the Third Reich. Racism is still an issue despite slavery and school integration being abolished. And in the age of mobile phone cameras, it can be easily recorded and uploaded on social media for netizens to see. I have watched dozens of videos where white women call the cops on persons of colour—an adult male or female, and sometimes, these incidents involve young kids. Some of these made it to the news and some ended tragically. As a person of colour myself, from the brown race of the Philippines, I’m filled with mixed emotions whenever I watch these videos. I never thought that I too would experience racism, since Canada is a welcoming community. Two separate incidents tell me that not all Canadians are open to other cultures. The first incident happened in the summer of last year. I was riding my bike and I always get off my

bike whenever I am going to cross the street, whether at a pedestrian crossing or when at a stop light. I was about to cross the street, after the pedestrian sign turned green, when out of nowhere I saw a pickup truck from my left side speeding up and almost ended up hitting me. There were some motorists that honked their horn, as if telling the driver off for driving ahead despite clearly seeing me crossing. By the way, this happened mid afternoon and I was wearing a light-coloured shirt to make myself seen while riding my bike. The guy rolled down his window and shouted that I get off the road, even though I can cross since the

pedestrian light has turned green. I just shrugged it off and continued to cross the street after hearing his “kind words” to me. The next incident took place a month ago and this time, I was in the car with my daughter. I was at a stop sign waiting for the road to clear before driving off, when I heard a honk from an impatient driver behind me. He then shouted, “Go back to your country and learn how to drive.” The car’s windows were rolled down so I hear his words of wisdom directed towards me. In both incidents, I was shaking and scared. Mixed emotions filled me. Anger for their hatred, sadness for the way I was treated, and pity for both drivers for their closed mindedness. Yes, my skin colour is not white and yes, English is my second language that I learned from elementary to college. I’m just sharing my story. Incidents that I used to watch on videos posted on social media. The world will be a better place if we accept other races and cultures. Acceptance and understanding is what we all need.

A letter to Tatay

SASKATOON—My father died in February 2018, more than a month after our last vacation to the Philippines where we got to spend Christmas and New Year with our family and friends. I had no idea that that would be the last time we would see Tatay alive, and the last time he would see my family and spend time with two (Macky and Nathan) of his more than 10 grandchildren. It was the last time I spoke to him in person and my last mano before heading to the airport on the early morning of Jan. 9, 2018. He died when we were back on Saipan, thousands of kilometres away east of the Philippines, while I was busy covering House and Senate sessions at the CNMI Legislature or busy hounding the governor about a local or federal issue. All this happened while I was working on an island surrounded by the ocean in the Western Pacific. I haven't mentioned this to anyone—and I'm not sure if Nanay or my sister who was taking care of him remembers this—but I got really mad at him when we talked on the phone in mid February. I was raising my voice at him, even shouting at the top of my lungs. I was venting all my frustrations on him and even mentioned the money we spent on his treatments. But he said he didn’t want to get his dialysis treatment anymore. He wished to go back to Nueva Ecija,

his home province, and wait for his final breath in the City of Cabanatuan with his family and relatives. I was trying to lift his spirits, and trying to convince him to get his treatment and to get well. We were planning to surprise him and Nanay with a tour of Los Angeles before my family—myself, my wife and two kids—moved to Canada. He didn’t get that chance, and when he died, he was cremated and his ashes were buried with my grandfather and his step-mom. November is his birth month. He was born on the 28th and would have been 76 this year. I never had the chance to apologize to my father. I never got the last chance to say things like “thank you for the sacrifices that you’ve done for your family” and “I love you”. I would do anything if there was a possibility to talk to him again or send him this short note, which would have these words:

Dear Tatay, First of all, happy birthday or happy commemoration on the day that you were born. I still remember you joyously celebrating it with your kumpadres where you enjoyed bottles of cerveza with a side of kalderetang kambing or adobong itik. I know that one of your greatest regrets is failing to assist me with my college education. I kept telling you not to worry about that since you’ve already done a lot for your family, even to the point of working in the desert of Saudi Arabia for 10 years. Your decision to become an OFW to earn more and be a great provider is enough. We know that you love us since you sacrificed your own comfort of being with your family to endure the desert heat and the feeling of homesickness. A feeling that I too experienced when I left the Philippines in 2004. I could say that I’ve done fairly well when I started my own family. Though there were challenges and minor bumps, everything happens for a reason and it helped us get to where we are today. I’ve worked hard and I think I’ve achieved some things that you can be proud of. Again, thank you for what you’ve done and I hope, like what Eric Clapton said, you would know my name if I saw you in heaven. Love you Tay and I miss you very much.

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THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

NOVEMBER 2021 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Philanthrophy

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Religion | Horoscope | Mind Twisters

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2021

Live life to express not to impress Luke 14:1,7-14

MAKE OUR DAILY GOSPEL READING TRENDING Like it and share it!

Fr. Jhack Diaz Rev. Fr. Raldy "jhack" Diaz is the first Filipino priest ordained in the Diocese of St. Paul Alberta. He is currently the Pastor of St. Jean de Brebeuf Parish, Mallaig, Alberta.

Nowadays, the world is bombarded by status-seeking culture. Many people seek fame, power and recognition. Our gospel reading for today encourages us to be content with what is seemingly “lowly and least.” God’s Kingdom is only for the humble people. My dear kababayans, it is always a better option to take the lower place when invited to a banquet. Conduct yourselves with humility because the humble will be loved by people and God. The more you are humble the greater you will be, and the more you will find favour with God. “My son, conduct your affairs with humility and you will be loved more than a giver of gifts.” Today avoid any semblance of pride and boastfulness. Humility is accepting who we are. We are just “humus.” If we keep on stopping and telling people where we’ve been, surely we will not reach our destination. Being humble is better than being famous. Humility is royalty without a crown.

H O RO S C O P E November has you going deep, Aries. With so much planetary activity stewing in your solar eighth house, you are addressing your inner needs. The new moon on November 4 could help you negotiate for more on a personal level, perhaps bringing you and an intimate partner more in alignment with you emotionally and sensually.

The most important month of 2021 has arrived for you, Taurus. November significantly spotlights your relationships as well as ushers in a newfound eclipse cycle that rapidly shifts your destined path. The sun, Mercury, and Mars all combine their strength in your solar seventh house this month, showing that you’re deeply focused on working as a team or negotiating your progress forward side by side.

Friends, to ascend, we need to descend. In other words, if we want to rise up, we need to start from the bottom. Humble people love the lowest place. Humble people never sit at the VIP table. Friends, we are taller when we bow. The higher we are placed, the more humble we should walk. A great man is always willing to be little. Be mindful that it was pride that changed angels into devils, and it is humility that makes men as angels. Never brag, never boast. In the book of Proverbs 27: 2 “Don’t brag about yourself; let others praise you.” Do not boast matter how big your house is, how fancy your cars are, or how big you bank account is. Our graves will be always the same size. Stay humble. Friends, remember this: humility is the mother of all giants. Blessings Fr. Jhack

Prepare to open your arms to more prosperity in November, Libra. A major trend this month focuses explicitly on your solar second house. The new moon on November 4 could open a doorway for more income to come your way in the form of a raise, new job, or lucrative client.

November puts your needs front and center, Scorpio. With so much planetary energy packed into your solar first house, you are in your power. On November 4, the most important lunation of the year for you appears because it falls within your zodiac sign. In the days that follow, you can much more readily take action to pursue what your heart desires.

November could be especially busy for you, Gemini. With so much planetary power igniting your solar sixth house, you are likely firing on all cylinders. Happily, with your ruler Mercury leaving his post-shadow phase on November 2, you’re racing forward faster than ever.

November could have you feeling especially introspective, Sagittarius. With so much planetary energy huddled in your solar twelfth house, you’ll be feeling the need to reflect and surrender to the universe. The new moon on November 4 could put you in contact with medical personnel, either for yourself or someone you care for. This could be as simple as a dental procedure.

Passion ignites your heart in November, Cancer. The new moon on November 4 is like a jewel in the night as it blasts open a doorway in your heart. The sun, Mercury, and Mars all journey through this solar fifth house throughout the month as well, encouraging you to express yourself and see life in all its vivid beauty. Romantic matters can flourish, so single Cancers must use this cosmic energy to put themselves out there.

November could help you feel positively euphoric, Capricorn. With so many planets throwing a party in your solar eleventh house, you are sure to be connecting with many friends and feeling supported by the universe. A new moon in this sector arrives on November 4, and it could fill your in-box with texts, invitations, and messages from many well-wishers in your network.

November turns your attention to significant domestic matters, Leo. The new moon arrives to spotlight your solar fourth house on November 4, opening a doorway for change. Also, with the sun, Mercury, and Mars all bringing a great deal of energy to this sphere all month, you could be moving, renovating, fixing up your living space, or handling a major family matter.

A momentous month has arrived for you in November, Aquarius. With so much planetary activity bustling about in your solar tenth house, professional matters shine like jewels on your crown! A new moon in this arena awakens on November 4, opening the doorway for you to reach higher toward your ambitions.

Prepare for a surge of activity in November, Virgo. With your planetary ruler Mercury back up to full speed as of the second, you can feel confident as you proceed. A great deal of cosmic energy is stewing in your solar third house, likely showing that you’re especially focused on communication projects. The new moon on November 4 blasts open a door to begin work on a new writing, speaking, advertising, social media, or contractual affair.

New horizons are calling to you in November, Pisces. With so much planetary energy trumpeting to you from the perch of your solar ninth house, you’re eager to leave behind your comfort zone. A new moon in this arena arrives on November 4, opening a path to you that had been closed regarding an academic, media, publishing, immigration, travel, or legal matter.

October 2021 Crossword's Solution

October 2021 Issue Sudoku's Solution

C RO S S W O R D

ACROSS

1. Hesitation 6. Compass pt. 9. Wind dir. 12. Fiery felony 13. Born 14. School vehicle 15. handed out cards 16. contestant 18. Malady 20. Unusual 23. Wagon 24. Appends 28. Sham 30. Pare 31. Classified 32. Southern beauty 33. Mimic 34. Produce 37. Not there 38. Burden 39. Tibetan ox 40. Appetizer 43. Card game 46. Artist's stand 50. Be beholden to 51. Tent stake 52. Hoisting machine 53. Church bench 54. Witness 55. Bushy fence

DOWN

1. Writing tablet 2. How ____ you? 3. Neighbor of Mex. 4. Peddled 5. Tempted 6. Scoffs 7. Branch of Congress 8. Moistens 9. Pistons' league (abbr.) 10. Cloistered one 11. Boston time zone (abbr.) 17. The Grim ___ 19. ______ Francisco 20. Actress _____Winfrey 21. Curtain 22. Hinder 25. Hold up 26. Letter before epsilon 27. Streamlined 29. Calcuttas's Mother _____ 32. Beg 34. Pointed beard 35. Infuriate 36. Pecan, e.g. 41. Chef's units (abbr.) 42. Uncommon 43. Law officer 44. Dazzle 45. Freshly made 47. Gloomy 48. Manchester's country (abbr.) 49. Grant's opponent

Sudoku Puzzles are games of patience, numbers and genius! The satisfaction of solving a challenging Sudoku Puzzle is one of the greatest accomplishments any sudoku game player can experience. The rules are simple, fill in the blanks so that each row, each column, and each of the nine 3x3 grids contain one instance of each of the numbers 1 through 9.

Here is the puzzle. Good luck!

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Immigration Update | Heroism

NOVEMBER 2021 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

THE IMMIGRATION GUY

Stephen Burry Stephen Burry is the Lead Consultant and owner of Freedom Migrate Immigration Solutions Limited, an immigration consultancy firm based in Calgary, Alberta. Stephen is licensed with the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC). He can be reached at 403-520-2277 or call/ text at 587-938-3100. Email: freedommigrate@gmail.com Website: www.freedommigrate.ca

This month we continue our immigration Q&A series and answer immigration questions submitted by you! Names and situation details are fictional to protect confidentiality and privacy

Q&A with an Immigration Professional Working towards freedom… and legal status! Juliana – Strathmore, AB Q: I applied for the temporary resident to permanent resident (TR to PR) pathway last June and I heard I can apply for an open work permit, but my status expired shortly after I applied. ☹ How can I resolve my status and get my work permit? Please help! A: Good question Juliana, we can help! To get an open work permit in the new TR to PR pathway, the applicant must meet five (5) qualifiers: 1) You have applied for permanent residence via the TR to PR pathway and have been allowed to submit the application before the deadline; 2) You have had authorization to work when you applied for the TR to PR application via a work permit or an authorization to work letter; 3) You have met the minimum language requirements for the stream; 4) You are currently living inside Canada; and

5) You have current valid immigration status in Canada OR be eligible to restore your status. For you Juliana, pay special attention to number 5 – eligible to restore your status. If your status ran out since you applied for TR to PR and you are still within 90 days of the expiry of your status, you can still apply! There are special instructions, and we always recommend using an immigration professional for status issue files. If you meet the above requirements, we can help! Changing lanes! Isabella – South Edmonton, AB Q: I just arrived in Canada as an international student and discovered that the program I am enrolled in doesn’t offer Post-Graduate Work Permits! This is devastating for me and my family because I want to work when I graduate, and I fear now that I will have to leave Canada when I am done with my program. What do I do? How do I ensure I have a pathway for PR?

A: Isabella, this can be a tricky situation, but rest assured it can be corrected! When you become an international student, you commit to your studies at the institution listed on your study permit and the application you submitted. However, the Canadian government understands that sometimes things can change and you may find out that the institution you are attending is not the choice you thought would work for you. That is why there are clear instructions on how to change a post-secondary school in your immigration account. You can transfer to a new university/college and let Canadian immigration know by simply getting the new institutes DLI (Designated Learning Institution) number and adding the details to your online portal account. IF you do not know or have an online account, we can help! Be sure to let immigration know of this change as soon as possible as you can encounter issues if you delay this process. Rest assured! It is easy and can be done on your own without extra cost. However, sometimes people like some reassurance and guidance and we are always here to help! We offer consultation services to make small changes like this for you. Love knows no boundaries! Kelly – Red Deer, AB Q: I met the woman of my dreams two years ago in the Philippines. I am a Canadian citizen and want her to come live with me so bad, but I am currently in a messy divorce with an ex I have been separated with for almost a decade – and I cannot move to the Philippines because of my job and my family here in Canada. She

cannot come and see me because she is denied a visitor visa because of her relationship with me! How do I move forward? A: We feel you Kelly. Love certainly knows no boundaries and we applaud you both for making it work long distance for so long! Contrary to the popular belief in immigration that you have to be married to someone to sponsor them as your partner, there are actually three types of intimate partner sponsorships in Canadian immigration: 1) Spousal sponsorship – where you marry someone and sponsor them as a permanent resident; 2) Common-law sponsorship – where you have lived with your partner for at least a year and can sponsor them as a permanent resident; AND 3) Conjugal sponsorships – a partner who lives outside of Canada and whom you cannot live with or marry because of barriers that are outside of your control. You need to have been in this relationship for at least one year and have met at least once. You also need to prove the relationship is genuine and continuous. Some barriers may include immigration issues, ongoing divorce proceedings, sexual orientation, and religious beliefs. You may have an option! Take advantage of our FREE consultation so you can get the answers you need and a pathway forward. Have a question? Send us your submission to freedommigrate@ gmail.com or call our office at 403520-2277 or call/text 587-938-3100 from anywhere in Alberta!

FRONTLINER ISA KANG BAYANI (YOU’RE A HERO)

This column aims to recognize and appreciate everyone’s heroism when facing the challenges of life with courage and equanimity. Our society truly needs virtuous people like you. Indeed, we can speak of the truth, though, it may be hard; but we can soften it with kindness. A grand salute to our heroes!

Joy Castin Housekeeper, University of Alberta Hospital All photos and articles available online. Follow us

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Community | Greetings

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2021

A group of friends form an association for the purpose of doing community service and at the same time enjoy life & camaraderie with fellow members The Association of Friendly FilipinoCanadians of Edmonton: A Backgrounder” (by Dindo Tipon, Inaugural President of TAFFCE) It was on the third week of September when Dindo Tipon suggested to Ms. Rowena Lao that they have a last summer picnic at Goldbar Park, either on last week of September or the first week of October. Later, Rowena invited Ms. Beth Aperocho Fontanilla. Originally, the plan was to bring together a small group but Ms. Aperocho Fontanilla and Ms. Lao also invited their friends to join a last summer picnic at Jackie Parker Park in Millwoods. The gathering was finally held on Oct. 3, 2021 and attended

by almost a hundred people, mostly Filipinos. Amarjeet Sohi who was running as Mayor of Edmonton at the time, also attended that gathering, so it was the best time for politicians to attend the gather in order to introduce themselves to the group. During the picnic, Ms. AperchoFontanilla suggested formalizing the group, and the first meeting was held on October 9, 2021 at Millwoods Town Centre. The group had no name at that time. Their main goal was to do some outreach and recreational programs. During the first meeting, the group agreed to have a gift giving program during Halloween in Millwoods Town Centre. The initial name given by Dindo Tipon was Friendly Filipino-Canadians of Millwoods but the membership became bigger and bigger and it

was formalized as an Association on October 26, 2021. Mr. Tipon gave the name “The Association of Friendly Filipino-Canadians of Edmonton” and it was registered with the Alberta Provincial Registry through the efforts of Ms. Rowena Lao. On October 31, 2021 the first outreach program held at Millwoods Town Centre was to give treats to 500 kids. It was a very successful program with the help of our donors. On November 2, 2021 the election of TAFFCE officers was held at Palabok House. More Community Service and Outreach Programs and Projects are being planned and will be announced and implemented in the coming New Year 2022.

TAFFCE officers & members in action giving treats to kids at mtc uring halloween 2021.

Jacob Christian reaches another milestone Edmonton-based businessman Jacob Christian celebrated another year on, Nov. 13 and was joined by family, friends and office staff members. Christian has been employing a good number of hard-working Filipino workers in his companies. He is also known for being able to sing Filipino songs when encouraged to sing. Some members of the Filipino community wished him well. The Alberta Filipino Journal was also invited to chronicle the simple celebration.(Text and photos by Moses Billacura/AFJ)

Jacob with his beloved mom.

The celebrant with his friends.

Jacob with his cousin.

Jovy presents the birthday cake.

The celebrant with Pinoy friends Gerry, Benjie, Julio and Elmer.

Jacob thumbs up.

Pinoy staff Coco delivers a heartfelt message to his employer Jacob.

Singer Rosalie.

Singer Josephine.

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Group of business owners whom Jacob has closely worked with. THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

Greetings

NOVEMBER 2021 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

Grace & Grayson Elliott Wedding Reception After exchanging vows at an intimate ceremony in Kelowna , B.C. on November 6, 2021, Grace Panganiban and Grayson Elliott held a formal reception at the Royal Palace in Edmonton, Alberta attended by family, relatives and friends. Congratulations to the newlyweds!

Another Year Old After 60: Noel Angeles (Nov 15) Surrounded by very significant people is the prize of a meaningful life. These are the people you can always rely on. They are your precious gifts. The family’s prizes are priceless and way better than surprises. Happy Natal Day!

From MAYOR AMARJEET SOHI to his wife Sarbjeet on her birthday: “Happy birthday to my best friend, my life partner, my biggest inspiration my wife! I am so grateful for you, Sarbjeet.”

Pilgrimage: A perfect journey into holiness while celebrating one’s birthday. You are so blessed Lydia Jimenez (Nov 17) and Liezel Jimenez (Nov 15). You also share your blessings with your friends and companions.

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Greetings

ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2021

CELEBRATIONS OF LIFE: Moving Forward

Birthdays are everyone’s most cherished moment as this is when we celebrate the covenant between life and its Giver. Nobody is born alone. There are two causes of life that we have to acknowledge, appreciate, and recognize. The first is the Ultimate Cause or Giver, our God and the second are the proximate causes, our parents. Now, He who doesn’t acknowledge, appreciate, and recognize his or her life is also rejecting its Causes. Lucky are these individuals who truly celebrate life with significant people around them. May you all continue to share the gift of life with others. Active co-existence follows essence.

A Glittering Guy in His Golden Year Arnel Serrano’s wife Odette, his family and friends throw him a golden celebration for his 50th birthday

Happy Birthday Mrs. Beth Aperocho Fontanilla, November 13! A memorable and successful 75th birthday celebration of Beth Aperocho Fontanilla was held at Palabok House Restaurant attended by family relatives and friends last Saturday November 13, 2021. Wishing Beth more birthdays to enjoy.

Marianne Rosal: A Lady well-loved by her mama Marjorie Carmona-Newman, grandma Yvone, and family.

Michelle Dela cruz-Ballelos (Nov 9)

Greetings from her friend Angela San Pedro

November 11 (Greetings from her loving mom, grandma, dad, friends, and AFJ family)

Paula Antonette Abejar (Nov 8) celebrates her first birthday with her parents Paul and Mela in the presence of friends and relatives

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Happy 6 Decades Brother Louel Magana (Nov 17)

THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA

NOVEMBER 2021 ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL

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Business

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Business

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ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL NOVEMBER 2021

THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY IN THE PROVINCE OF ALBERTA, CANADA