January 2007 Home Paper of the 1999 Canadian Ethnic Journalists’ and Writers’ Club Winner for Best

Winner for Best Editorial Toronto, Ontario

Manigong Bagong Taon

2006

INSIDE
2006: SAILING THE 7 Cs

BICOL
Ooops & Bloops (See pages 20 and 21)

Ka-sha
shampoo
Calendar Babe
ko lang
-- 6

‘Saudi’ Alberta -- 13

AID ON
K
H
A
A
T
Detroit Auto Show
L
- 35 R
I

TRACK
I
L
N
I
A
Filipino Fury on ice in
CMHL tournament - 37

(See page 5)
Saskatchewan eyes 5,000 Filipino
RESOLVED! immigrants per year under MoU
The Government of Saskatchewan
has signed on Dec. 18 a memoran-
Get that good thing going in 2007?
dum of understanding (MoU) with
Here’s what Manila Media Monitor
the Government of the Philippines
readers have to say.
to facilitate increased recruitment
RENATO & MERLYN TY - Since
of skilled Filipino workers under
we arrived in Toronto two years back, we
Saskatchewan’s Immigrant Nominee
were exposed to multi cultures. We got
Program (SINP).
influenced by and adopted some of them. CARMELITA PESTAÑO-GALANO
At 5,000 immigrants per year by ATKINSON
But we find Filipino values still the best. - I vow to go on sowing the seeds of friend-
2008, Saskatchewan will seek work-
The best resolution we will maintain is ship. If there is anything better than giv-
ers for designated priority occupations, such as welding,
to retain close family bonding -- the KA- ing someone the best of what we have, it is
metal fabrication, long-haul trucking and health care.
PAMILYA way of life, where we share giving them the best of what we are.
(Continued on page 17) Minister Responsible for Immigration Pat Atkinson
one’s problems as well as victories.
(Continued on page 4)
JANUARY 2007 Manila Media Monitor 2
JANUARY 2007 Manila Media Monitor 3 CALENDAR
JAN. 26: Induction Ball, Culture Philippines
Ontario, Algonquin Ballroom, Stage West Ho-
tel, Mississauga.

JAN. 27: Induction Ball, Tanza Cavite Asso-

ciation, St. Boniface Church Hall, Scarbor-
ough, 6:30 p.m.

JAN. 27: Pistahan Ng Santo Niño De Cebu,

St. Ambrose Church, Etobicoke

FEB. 24: 16th Anniversary and Induction Ball,

Isabela Cultural Organization of Ontario, Q-
SSIS Place, Scarborough.

MAY 24-27: De La Salle Alumni Association

6th World Congress hosted by the Toronto
Chapter, Holiday Inn Select Airport

CALENDAR is a public service

feature of Manila Media Monitor
and the Philippine Consulate
Toronto through Carol Martin.

and the
The Philippine Consulate
Toronto

WISH YOU
PROSPERITY
and
ALL THE BEST
IN 2007
4 News NEWS Manila Media Monitor
JANUARY 2007

Canadian envoy wants ‘in’ on ceasefire monitoring team

COTABATO CITY - Cana- ment has recently recognized Que-
da’s Political Affairs and Public becois as a nation within Canada.
Economic Relations Counselor “We will discuss Canada’s plan
Steven Rheault-Kihara has hoped to join the IMT when peace talks
to join international peace moni- resume in Kuala Lumpur, Malay-
tors in Mindanao to ensure the sia between the Philippine govern-
success of the Government of the ment and MILF with Malaysia as
Republic of the Philippines-Moro a neutral inernational mediating
Islamic Liberation Front (GRP- party,” Iqbal said.
MILF) peace overture. Last year, Japan sent an eco-
MILF chief negotiator Moha- nomic analyst to join the IMT and
gher Iqbal said Rheault-Kihara met monitor socio-economic aspects
with MILF leaders on Dec. 18 in of the GRP-MILF peace overture.
Shariff Kabunsuan and expressed Sweden has also expressed inter-
willingness to join the Internation- est in sending a peacekeeing con-
al Monitoring Team (IMT). tingent to back up IMT members.
The Malaysian-led IMT is a Meanwhile, the Canadian
body tasked to prevent any escala- government has issued renewed
tion of hostilities between govern- warnings for its citizens against MILF GUERILLA. Fighting in Mindanao continues amid stalled peace talks.
ment security and MILF forces, traveling to Southern Philippines,
both covered by a three-year-old particularly Cebu, Sulu, Zambo-
bilateral ceasefire. anga and other areas of Mindanao Saskatchewan ...
Iqbal said Rheault-Kihara not- unless they have critical or compel- (From page 1)
ed Canada’s expertise on gover- ling business or family reasons. said “Skilled workers from the increased dramatically, he said. would have received employment
nance, especially on affairs of the ”Credible information suggests Philippines will give Saskatch- The Philippines has been the and English language training and
indigenous “First Nation.” terrorists are in the final stages of ewan business owners another number one source country of ap- an orientation on Saskatchewan
The envoy said his country has planning attacks” and an ongoing means of filling their jobs, which plicants to the SINP. culture that would prepare them
scores of indigenous tribes that terrorist threat to Westerners and will foster continued growth of our “Opening our doors and help- to be full participants in the prov-
enjoyed full rights to self-deter- Western interests in the Philippines, province.” ing people from around the world ince’s society and economy.
mination, especially the Inuits and the Jan. 5 warning said. Atkinson noted the significant choose Saskatchewan will build The SINP operates under an
Nunavuts, who have self-govern- It urged its citizens to exer- contributions Filipino immigrants our economy and make life better agreement with the Government of
ing “nations” within their ancestral cise extreme caution and security have made to Canadian society for everyone, and build a strong Canada, allowing Saskatchewan
domains, and with full access and awareness in commercial and pub- and economy future here for our young people,” to nominate candidates who meet
ownership to their resources. lic establishments, in tourist areas The number of Filipino immi- he added. provincially-designated criteria
He added the Canadian govern- and on public transportation. PNA grants coming to the province has Before landing, applicants for landed immigrants. PR
 News
At the end of the day, what matters most is not Manila Media Monitor
how much we have given of what we have JANUARY 2007
but how more we shared of what we are. 5

BICOL AID ON TRACK

BY ACE ALVAREZ and BUTCH GALICIA
The drumrolls, fanfare and the grandstanding were conspicuously absent. Not even the cameras of the so-called
‘mainstream’ media rushed to a hastily-organized haphazard press confab were rolling to herald a fundraiser for
thousands of people who lost loved ones, property and livelihood in another disaster that hit the Philippines.
Yet, a silent but committed group of people, under the Godly guidance of the Benedictine Sisters of St. Agnes
Academy, volunteered themselves and worked hard to raise money and give fast relief for victims of mudslides from
the slopes of majestic Mt. Mayon spawned by Typhoon Reming that battered Bicol region on Dec. 2.
In a Jan. 3 report fur- nes Academy (SAA), took pressing extreme gratitude Association of Toronto;
nished the Manila Media efforts to consolidate the for the “goodness of heart” $200 each: Mario and Perla
Monitor, Toronto-based donations -- that also came of many people in Canada. Andres, Legazpeno Families
volunteer coordinator Mila from the United States, Eu- Notes of thanks also of BC c/o Ditas Dy; $120:
Alvarez Magno said the rope and other countries -- came from Reynoso, the Alex Catangui;
fundraiser, which started as and converted these to relief Benedictine Sisters and the $100 each: Jing Lome-
soon as word of the disas- goods (rice and other food- SAA alumni group. da, Leilani Roslin-MacKin-
ter got out, generated some stuff), repacked these into Magno furnished the non, Noel and Agnes Cruz,
$14,363 in cash and pledges bags and distributed them to Manila Media Monitor an Ralph and Juliet Ferrer,
in just a few days. people in mudslide-ravaged initial list of donors from the Tessie Salazar-Haab, Mari-
Magno said the cash villages. community, particularly in lyn Bengzon St-Pierre, Bert
donations had been sent -- Magno sought for more Toronto, as follows: and Cecile Cruz, Geny and
through Philippine National donations to meet victims’ $750: Anonymous Do- Ester Toribio, Lina Lomeda,
Bank Remittance services -- immediate need for food, nors; $474: University of the Winston Lomeda, Rose-
New act arms Toronto to Fund Administrator Mary water and other basics.
Anne Reynoso.
Philippines Alumni Associa- mary Balce, David and Piat
Magno said she had re- tion in Toronto Dec. 9 Kapi- Crisologo-Allison, Roy and
with hefty growth tools Reynoso, together with ceived a number of letters han attendees; $300: San Brenda Gutierrez, Bay and
alumni members of St. Ag- from mudslide victims ex- Beda/St.Benedict Alumni (Continued on page 9)
A new City of
Toronto Act was
proclaimed on
Jan. 1, providing
Canada’s largest
city with broad
powers and sig-
nificant legislative
freedoms.
Mayor David
Miller said “this
legislation is the
most important
and significant
change for the
City of Toronto in
the past century.
It recognizes To-
ronto as a mature
government and
provides it with
much-needed
tools to meet its
responsibilities to
residents.”
With the act,
the city has be-
come better able
to determine ap-
propriate mecha-
nisms for deliv-
ering municipal
services, deter-
mine the appro-
priate levels of
municipal spend-
ing, and use new
fiscal tools to sup-
port the city’s ac-
tivities.
The act armed
Toronto with
broader powers to
license and regu-
late businesses,
broader author-
ity to undertake
economic devel-
opment opportu-
nities and more
flexibility to raise
revenue in addi-
tion to property
tax. PR
6 Views Manila Media Monitor
JANUARY 2007

off - Tuesdays being Seniors Day er for starters.”

at Shoppers Drug Mart. ***
No sirees. Tess is far from From a forwarded message
that time! by media guy, Jojo Taduran:
*** “According to the Alaska
I received a request for pub- Department of Fish and Game,
Ace Alvarez
lication of a press release from a while both male and female rein-
fellow at the PPCO, hence, I for- deer grow antlers in the summer
Whizz of Os: Ka-sha- warded the same to Butch - who
decides whether to publish, or not,
each year, male reindeer drop
their antlers at the beginning of

shampoo ko lang! the same.

A little later, he sent me back
winter, usually late November to
mid-December. Female reindeer
THE ORIGINAL of what I sent retain their antlers till after they
At the Philippine Chamber in Scarborough with PCCT for him (pointing to me), La Batt’s him as follows; AND WITH A give birth in the spring.
of Commerce-Toronto (PCCT) President-elect for 2007-2008 Blue. Butch had a Coca-Cola. NOTE, stating, “Where is the “Therefore, according to
Christmas Party, December 16, Paeng Nebres; Vice President In the middle of the dinner, press release?” EVERY historical rendition
2006, Filipino Center-Toronto (Trade and Government Rela- Tenny called my attention, and depicting Santa’s reindeer, EV-
President Linda Javier told this tions) Henry Sia; Philippine pointing to Butch: “Ace! Hei …” JESS M. CARLOS, BBA ERY single one of them, from
columnist: “Ace, if I do something Press Club Ontario (PPCO) Fast as lightning, Super Ace President & CEO-JC Link Rudolph to Blitzen, had to be a
wrong, you criticize me …” President Tenny Soriano and clapped his hand for the waiter: Financial Group; President-Ma- girl.
Ace to Linda: “Where do you Butch Galicia … “Heineken, please, for him (point- harajah Heritage of Canada; PRO “We should’ve known...
want the criticism to be; in ‘Ooops Oswald Tugadi commented, ing to Butch).” -Association of Filipino Canadian ONLY women would be able to
and Bloops’, or ‘From the Moni- “Masyadong mausok dito, e, It turned out that Tenny want- Accountants; PRO- Kalayaan; drag a fat man in a red velvet
tor’s Desk’?” ka-sha-shampoo ko pa la’ng na- ed me to apply “Heimlich Maneu- Director-Asian Canadian Entre- suit all around the world in one
Linda continued, “And when man.” ver” on Butch, but Tenny forgot preneur Professional; Life Mem- night and not get lost.”
I do something good, say some- Oswald is PCCT’s re-elected what it’s called, and my guess on ber- Million Dollar Round Table; ***
thing about it.” Vice President for Membership Tenny’s 2nd was totally wrong. Member-Philippine Press Club Opening my e-mail one eve-
Ace to Linda: “Something (see top left photo on page 16, Well … could you blame me? Ontario; Member-Free and Ac- ning while working with Butch on
about it.” only guy standing, get to know Tenny had Coor’s Light. I had La cepted Mason; Unfranchise Owner this issue, I read a message from
Later during press work … Oswald). Batt’s Blue. Hence, what follows and Distributor of Market Ameri- him.
Manila Media Monitor Editor *** next is ‘Heineken’. Besides, the ca-a multibillion dollar broker- I responded, saying, “Sir
Butch Galicia pointed out to Ace: During a dinner at the Sur- dinner was shortly after (what age industry; Tel: 416.804-3611; Butch, can I deal with this tomor-
“I don’t think you got Linda. She prise Birthday Party for Tess Cu- Myrna Soriano describes as) Tel: 905-882-8848; jessmcarlos@ row? I need to sleep. I’ve been
was saying for you to say some- sipag, Managing Editor of Balita “Alak-singko, gising na … (ang rogers.com, www.jessmcarlos.un- sleeping very very late for the
thing good when she does some- in Markham, Ontario, January mga media angels)!” franchise.com. last one week now?” He replied:
thing good.” 6, 2007, Tenny Soriano, PPCO *** “Okay, sir, have a good sleep.”
Ace to Butch: “Something President, his wife Myrna, Butch THERE’S NO TRUTH that To Butch: “Sir, I apologize. I I responded: “Thank you.” He
good.” Galicia and myself were seated after the birthday celebration thought that what I sent you was responded, “Walang ano man.”
*** together at the same table. for Tess Cusipag, she would the press release itself. It turned So, not to be construed as rude,
During a dinner at a Chinese Tenny to the waiter: Can you change her Balita work schedule out, warm-up pa lamang pala - I responded again, “Thank you.”
restaurant on Sheppard Avenue give me Coor’s Light, please? And to consider Tuesdays as her days which is a description of the send- (Contind on page 16)
New Ontario law gives newcomers News Manila Media Monitor
7 JANUARY 2007

faster access to trades, professions Doug Ord retires,

The Ontario Legislature on case Ontario as an employer-of- ties, and to promote civic partici-
Dec. 12 has passed into law the
Fair Access to Regulated Profes-
choice for practice-ready health
professionals through strategic
pation;
► Allotment of some $34
Philip Mendoza in
sions Act 2006 that sought to get marketing and advertising to tar- million in over 60 Bridge Train- Police Constable (PC) Doug
internationally-trained profession- get groups of health professionals, ing Programs, helping thousands Ord, the tall ever-smiling soft-
als working in their fields sooner. including a campaign to repatriate of newcomers work in over 100 spoken fellow in uniform, has
Ontario Citizenship and Immi- the estimated 3,000 physicians trades and professions; retired from the service effective
gration Minister Mike Colle said registered to practice in Ontario ► Launching of the immigra- Dec. 29, 2006.
the “legislation is long overdue.” have resided out of the province. tion web portal, www.OntarioIm- Ord, a regular figure in most
The act, the first legislation of Colle said the provincial gov- migration.ca designed to support community activities over the
its kind in Canada, specifically: ernment has initiated other pro- newcomers both in Ontario and years, had been with the Toronto
► Required 34 regulated pro- grams to break down barriers for abroad, prior to arrival; Police Community Mobilization
fessions to have a licensing pro- Unit (CMU).
cess that has fair, open and timely In a letter, Ord said: “Over
assessment of credentials of for- “Our government is keeping its commitment the past many years it has been a
eign-trained professionals. to break down barriers that prevent newcomers pleasure to get to know many of
you and build better police-com-
► Establish the Office of the from entering the workforce. We are determined munity relations.”
Fairness Commissioner responsi-
ble for assessing registration and to ensure that Ontario’s newcomers have every “I have been advised by BMU
licensing practices, and ensure opportunity to succeed and participate in our Superintendent F. Darren Smith,
CMU, that my replacement, PC
compliance. economy.” Philip Mendoza, has been found
► Operate Global Experience
Ontario, an access and resource Citizenship/Immigration Minister Mike Colle and barring any last minute chang-
center that would provide hands- es, he should take over on Jan. 15.
on support services in-person, by newcomers, to include the: ► Establishment of the first His telephone number will remain
telephone or online, including ► Finalization of the Canada- Provincial Internship for the Inter- the same as mine 416-808-7071.
links to education and assessment Ontario Immigration Agreement nationally-Trained Administered “Thank you for all your assis-
programs; settlement agencies; that quadrupled federal spending by Career Bridge that placed new- tance,” Ord added. But communi-
and, internships and mentoring on language training and settle- comers with a minimum of three ty leaders admitted to the Manila
programs. ment services, bringing in another years international work experi- Media Monitor that the commu-
The center would also provide $920 million to assist Ontario ence for six-month paid assign- nity has much more to thank Ord
direction on standards for profes- newcomers over five years; ments within the Ontario Public for. “He is a police role model.”
sional qualifications; licensing ► Development of ‘All About Service and Crown Agencies; and The community is quite as- Mendoza is with the 53rd Divi-
and registration processes; refer- Ontario,’ a new citizenship curric- ► Creation of a Foreign- sured that Police Constable sion. He has community relations
rals for training; and, alterna- ulum resource added to language Trained Professionals Loans pro- DOUG ORD will continue experience and will be responsible
tive professions that complement and citizenship classes in early gram of up to $5,000 per person to be an integral part of its for looking after the Philippine,
skill-sets. 2007 to help newcomers learn to cover assessment, training and growth, even if Ord has gone Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese
► Put up the HealthForceOn- about Ontario’s history, geogra- exam costs, in partnership with into retirement from the po- and Indonesian communities and
tario Recruitment Centre to show- phy, their roles and responsibili- the Maytree Foundation. PR lice service. other details assigned to him.
8 Views Manila Media Monitor
JANUARY 2007

from the monitor’s desk peace and harmony started hover-

ing over the family of the woman
Ace Alvarez in this story.
“And the Angel of the Lord de-
clared unto Mary ...”

Yes, angels do roam ***

At another coffee shop, this

in this world
time in the Logan-Gerrard Street
area in Toronto, a man in his mid-
30s was so immersed in his own
sorrows that the hot coffee he or-
A WOMAN in her mid-40s told came to our life, I was already “The priest told me: ‘I know dered was catching up with the
the 22-year old male with whom considering divorce from my hus- not of anybody wearing a brown outdoor cold temperature.
she was having a conversation at band. But now, after 23 miserable cloak with a sword, but St. Francis An old man approached him
a corner table in one Tim Horton’s years, everything is changing, my of Assisi; and don’t worry, if the and said, “Smile - and the world
coffee shop outlet in Pickering, daughter is at peace with me, my sword you’ve been seeing in your smiles with you. Weep - and you
Ontario: “When you came to our husband; and my son are moving dream is pointed upward, the man weep alone.”
life and have been frequenting vis- back home next week.” is a good one.’ He just glanced at the old man
its to our family, everything seems As her 22-year old company “The priest, trying to analyze briefly, and didn’t say a word. The
to be peaceful around us now.” incessantly listened to her, she the dream continued: ‘I guess, it words of the old man, however,
The woman continued, “Not a said, “You have even taught us in- means that one day, you would quickly dawned on him. He looked
single day would pass for the last directly to eat at the dining table meet somebody who would protect around, but the old man was gone.
23 years that there would be no together, and not in front of the you against danger and evil things He stood up, stepped out of the
quarrel between myself and my television.” in the world.’ door quickly, ocularly inspected
husband, and later between my Meanwhile, in 1983, back in The 22-year old calmly said, the parking lot, but did not see the
own 22-year old son and myself, the Philippines, a boy was born in “When I went through the Sacra- old man either.
or my 23-year old daughter and Manila. ment of Confirmation, I was asked He thought: “There’s no way
myself, or simply one among them The woman at the Pickering, to choose the name I would want that old man could have walked
against the other, or one another. Ontario Tim Horton’s continued: to have for the sacrament. I chose that fast on this vast parking lot
Our home was just like a zoo. “When I was pregnant 23 years St. Francis of Assissi.” onto the street with the span of
“This was the reason why my ago with my son, I had repeated ----- time by a flick of a finger.”
son moved out of our home a few dreams of a man with a brown The 22-year old with whom -----
years back, and lives on his own. cloak and a sword. the Pickering, Ontario woman con- The man could be an angel.
He seldom visits, phone, or any- “Those dreams became very versed was born in 1983 in Manila. Yes, angels do roam in this world.
thing. I miss him so much. frequent that I went to consult a Her repeated dream has ceased ***
“Honestly, just before you priest. giving way to its fulfillment; and A Peaceful 2007 to all!

roundabout way so he always remembered his

mandate as he came in and out of
Mag Cruz Hatol his station.
Judith Saplala of Pampanga
wrote to ask why the likes of Clau-

How fares Philippine

dine Barreto, Regine Velasquez
and Maricel Soriano did not figure
in the national vote. While Saplala
TV, viewers asked had kind words for many of the
top ten awardees, she minced no
words about a major news anchor
As tradition dictated, the re- can be received with glee or dis- ners in the TV personality survey. from ABS-CBN who she claimed
cent Anak TV Seal awards cere- appointment. They topbill 24 Oras. Many other was “far from wholesome” espe-
monies did not have the trappings The big winner was GMA top winners in the personality cially since she “spits venom ev-
of the usual glitzy awards nights. Network’s nightly news program, survey are featured in the shows ery morning on radio.”
First, it started on the dot at 9:30 24 Oras. Some judges from the that figured in the magic ten. They Saplala and the rest of the
a.m., children’s hour. Then there elite campuses and private com- were Korina Sanchez, Richard doubting Thomases should un-
was only one speech, that of the panies were incredulous, but only Gutierrez, Angel Locsin, Sarah derstand that the national survey
foundation president. Award re- until they realized that there were Gernonimo, Piolo Pascual, Judy was the most comprehensive that
cipients were asked to keep their millions of viewers who outnum- Ann Santos, Julius Babao, Den- could be undertaken by Anak TV.
thank yous terse and to the point bered them in taste and prefer- nis Trillo and Kristine Hermosa. A genuine cross section of Phil-
and the program was done in a ence. Comprehending that they (The other winners were Christine ippine society, representing not
little over an hour. And every sin- were in the minority brought them Bersola, Bernadette Sembrano, only various sectors, creeds, ages,
gle local TV channel was there to quiet acceptance. Sam Milby, Jericho Rosales, Sha- social strata and geographical ori-
cover the event. Not bad for a cer- The other winners included ron Cuneta, Arnold Clavio, Aga gins, was fielded. Radio was not
emony honoring 87 family friend- Mulawin, Rated K, Captain Bar- Muhlach, Bea Alonzo and Gary factored in as it was strictly a tele-
ly programs, 20 stars, 10 popular bell, Game Ka Na Ba?, Gulong Valenciano, who has been the top vision survey. The personalities
shows and two young broadcast- ng Palad, Majika, Bituing Walang vote getter three years in a row.) who garnered the most number
ers. If only the other awards bod- Ningning, TV Patrol and Sa Piling Mel Tiangco wrongfully of votes by the seventh month of
ies knew the meaning of short and Mo. thanked children for having pro- the national poll were shortlisted
impactful rather than longwinded In all, there were two news claimed her as the top female fa- to thirty and from that list, a more
and boring. programs, three fantaseryes and vorite on television. She was cor- elite group of jurors finalized the
The over 7,500 voters consist- three standard soaps. There was rected; it was not the children who selection and ranking.
ing mostly of bona fide TV pa- only one magazine program and voted her to the prime spot but the Only the names of the top
trons had a field day nominating one game show in the list. GMA adults. Voters were parents con- ten most liked personalities were
their favorite shows on TV. Natu- Network bagged four includ- cerned about their children and made public. For the delight of
rally, the tabulators had a tedious ing the top two while ABS-CBN the effect TV had on the kids. avid Pinoy TV viewers in Canada,
time listing and tallying the re- chalked six. This stresses another TV partner Mike Enriquez this column would mention the
sults. By the time the shortlist was truth: in Philippine broadcasting, was humbled again by the citation next ten placers in the male and
presented to the crucial final level there are only two major players; because it came from the people female favorite categories. We
judges in Baguio and Davao, the all others scramble for crumbs left themselves. He said that particular listed the names in no particular
winners’ circle had already taken by the giants. Sad state of affairs recognition mattered to him most order.
shape and it was simply the rank- but true. among all his awards because it Males: Albert Martinez, Dol-
ing that was awaited. It is noteworthy to mention reminded him that as a TV per- phy, Dingdong Dantes, Drew
Depending on where the view- that the list of top favorites among sonality, he had responsibilities he Arellano, Manny Pacquiao, Mar-
er’s allegiances lie and how his TV personalities also reflected the could not afford to skirt around. vin Agustin, Michael V, Robin
viewing tastes bend, the top ten list of top shows. Mel Tiangco To constantly be on guard, he Padilla, Ryan Agoncillo and Vic
choices of the Pinoy households and Mike Enriquez were frontrun- hung his award at his office door- (Continued on page 38)
Manila Media Monitor
JANUARY 2007 Views 9

Commentary CTV anchor Sandy Rinaldo

► Silence is Golden, a primer
Hurricane Katrina, mudslides in
the Philippines, forest fires and
Ben Viccari on media relations by Canadian floods all over the world are coin-
Prime Minister Stephen Harper. cidental occurrences; there are just
► Gotcha! by Canada’s Audi- too many of them.

Will you join

tor General Sheila Fraser. Let us face it.
► My Future Life in the Red We Canadians have a clear

me in this hope?
by Conrad Black choice: to face up to the need to
► Oops! An anthology of sacrifice gas-eating automobiles,
things they shouldn’t have said unlimited air travel, the wholesale
with contributions from Pope discharge of weaponry in wars and
May 2007 be the year that also to reminding those for whom sciously in those quaint outfits that Benedict, Jack Straw, Michael Ig- self-indulgent consumerism or stay
starts to bring world leaders to they voted they need a payback. suggest as a kid he never enjoyed natieff, Michael Kramer Richards with the herd that like lemmings,
their senses, and to those who vote ► That politicians of all stripes Halloween. and Mel Gibson. seem hell-bent on self-destruction.
for them a clear understanding think beyond the box of their elect- Did I say ‘This Year of *** We are a going to have to stop
of what is required of all of us to ed terms of office and that while Grace’? The choice of a former and looking over our shoulders to see
bring Planet Earth back from the the democratic system of govern- Well, let’s be optimistic. I can dedicated federal environment what other countries are doing.
brink of disaster. ment demands the cut and thrust of dream, can’t I? And many good minister as leader of the opposition We are going to have to learn
This is a year in which par- debate, petty tit-for-tat adversity is ideas begin with a dream. and the surge of concern among to say to critics: “This is about our
ticular attention should be given to not always in the public interest. What’s yours? young Canadians at the threat of children and grandchildren and
persuading our youth to think be- ► That high and mighty busi- *** global warming may well see a great grandchildren.”
yond the slogans on their T-shirts ness executives voluntarily refrain Each New Year’s, I think about merger of interests between the “It’s about survival, stupid!”
and learn how their empowerment from exercising stock options what public figures might, or might Green Party and the Liberals in the
for change in the interest of hu- which only result in their maxi- not be saying or doing in 2007. next election. (Used with permission. Ben
manity can help make Canada a mizing profits and lining their own This year, here are some books Short of conjoining, if the Viccari is the President of the
model nation. as well as shareholders’ pockets to you might just see on the bestsell- Greens win a few seats may well Canadian Ethnic Media Associa-
*** the detriment of workers and con- er lists. That is if the moon’s made decide to vote with the Liberals. tion [CEMA] and makes frequent
For this Year of Grace 2007, I sumers alike. of cream cheese. `Whatever our self-interests, appearances on OMNI TV Com-
wish: ► That world leaders stop ► A Complete Guide to Your economic and political interests mentary. Some of his commentar-
► That the youth of Canada picking on states wishing to devel- Contraceptive Options by Pope are, we have to face some bold ies are republished in this publi-
will wake up to the vital necessity op nuclear resources and consider Benedict. decisions if we are to help save cation and slightly expanded in
to vote for some of the things they total nuclear disarmament on a ► Dubya speak: A guide to humanity from the dreadful conse- some cases from their 70-second
support on their T-shirts, in partic- global and permanent scale. fashionable pronunciation for a quences of global warming. broadcast originals. For more of
ular, wildlife and the environment. ► That Canada’s prime min- nukelar age, see, by who else? Don’t tell me the signs aren’t his work, please visit Ben’s web-
They have to get used to voting and ister would stop posing self-con- ► Glamorous new hairdos by there. Don’t tell me the tsunamis, site at: http://canscene.ripple.ca)

This column is about you. Your success and

failures, your hopes and dreams, your loves
Our journey
By Eva Agpaoa
and losses, your joys and pains. It’s about
the journey you are taking for a better life.
The journey that brought you here so that A story to tell
you and your family can look forward to a
future that’s bright and full of hope.
In this column I will share your the bad. I was so lucky to find em- a person. some of you, even as you read this healing, encouragement and ideas.
stories, laugh with you when you ployers who cared about me and I’ve been harassed, beaten and column, still cry at night because Share with me your stories.
are happy, cry with you when you my dignity as a human being. held against my will. But I was de- you are lonely and afraid. Your experiences, both good and
are down. I want to hear your sto- They treated me as part of their termined not to let this horrible ex- You are far from your love bad. We might not solve all our
ries so that we can share together family and encouraged me to grow perience kill my spirit and hinder ones and the life you grew ac- problems but I do promise you that
and learn from each other. and explore my new country. me from getting a better life. customed to. But you are brave. you will not be alone again.
Of course I will never betray Since then I had gone to school, If I had allowed that to hap- Brave to be here. Brave to face and Share and be heard. We can
your trust. So I will never use your embarked on an occupation and pen, if I’d given up instead of heal- endure the many trials put before make a difference!
name or anything else that might started my own business. ing myself and moving forward, I you. And brave to have the vision See you in the next column.
compromise your privacy. Obviously it didn’t always go would have lost a lot and my fam- and strength to see it through. (Eva Agpaoa may be reached
Let me first share to you my life well. And certainly, my employers ily depended on me. This column celebrates you at “The Nanny Expert,” Tel.
story. I came to Canada 15 years in Singapore and the Middle East I know many of you have been and your dreams. Together we will 416.953.5089, or by e-mail at
ago and experienced the good and treated me more like a slave than hurt or have been treated badly and support each other. Offer hope and [email protected].)

Bicol aid ... BICOL AID. Officers and members of the Featinean Association of Toronto passed the hat and raised S1,000 for victims of
Typhoon Reming that hit the
(From page 5) Bicol Region. Philippine Con-
Daisy Bernabe, Danny Ungshang, sul General in Toronto Ale-
D.Y.K. Chan, Amalia Estrella, jandro Mosquera (5th from
Francis and Vanessa Rementilla, left) receives the check on
Peter and Jo Flach, Ramon Andal, Jan. 3 from (from left) Tirso
Cora Lat O’Connor, Rose and Ross Balitian, Tony San Juan, Joy
Dioso, Cora and Jun Bacani; San Juan, Julio Buiza, Res
$50 each: Elvie and Edgardo Paje, Nenita Recaido, Max
Arevalo, Evelyn Laraya, Art and Recaido, and Cesar Banda.
Emy Telesforo, Arnie and Loyd CAROLINE MARTIN/JT
Quesada, Andy and Dahlia Rosa-
rio, Imelda Dimaano Jacildo; $25: Club in Daraga, Legazpi, Albay.
NC Massage Therapy Clinic; $20 Rodoblado said the money
each: Adriano Telesforo Sr., Jim would be used to buy supplies to
and Angie McAdoo; $10 each: be brought to villagers who were
Happy Birthday Cake, Elsieta unable to be in evacuation centers.
Arao, Rose Gumtang. As this developed, warnings
Meanwhile, Bicol Canada Inc. were aired against unscrupulous
(BCI) president Joseph Redoblado, persons using the Bicol tragedy to
told the Manila Media Monitor, ask for donations without receipts
that BCI sent $2,000 to the Rotary and proper authorization.
10 Views Manila Media Monitor
JANUARY 2007
next 15 minutes and be promised
with great and exciting rewards?
Last but not least: Mr. Banack,
how do we get in touch with you;
of my peralysis.
Four - I’ll remain calm in the
face of adversity.
I won’t get mad if someone

Omerta By Butch DG. Galicia

and most importantly, when do we
hear from you?
Now, a word of wisdom from
sticks the so-called dirty finger in-
front of my chinky eyes. Frankly,
I can’t even make it out because it
Confused You to empty loud- is done differently back home. We
speakers: More talk, more mis- do it with balls, they don’t.

Isulat mo sa tubig,
takes; less talk, less mistakes; no I guess all I’ve got to do is
talk, no mistake. wave back and smile. They won’t

Itaga mo sa bato
Seven - I’ll try to keep my know that I just stuck five at them,
eyes closed and my mouth shut. and I had the last laugh. And when
My Chief and Manila Media I do that, I always have a ball.
Monitor Publisher Ace Alvarez Three - I’ll love my critics
Another year over, a new year make both ends meet. Those guys sions and poll committee -- is the has that knack of extending his and detractors.
has begun. Old hat, eh, John L. out there do not intend to stop man; not anyone else. work sked up to the wee hours of Paraphrasing Doc Chito C.: I’ll
After counting my blessings, I pulling them farther apart. Good! This will keep a lot of morn. If Ace does not need sleep, love to get them out of my life.
can now start counting my debts. Advice 3: If you are so so blue, publicity-seeking gabs and glib I’ll obligingly do it for him -- shut Quoting Tevye: Lord, please
I have also jotted down reso- down and out and desperate, keep mouths quiet for quite a while. my eyes and mouth. And don’t keep them ... away from me.
lutions I can count with my fin- in mind the one-armed guy who is Sayang! Ang isda pa naman, even think I’ll include my nose! Two - I’ll quit smoking.
gers. Believe it or not, I seriously clinging to a root protruding from nahuhuli sa bunganga. Six - I’ll keep my body fit. This is a tall order. But I be-
and unconditionally vow to break the side of a steep cliff and who’s Questions: How come it was Who doesn’t want healthy in- lieve in the saying that “if there is
them this very instant. No, no. Not got itching balls. not the court nor Banack who nards that can excellently digest all smoke, there’s fire.” I don’t want
my fingers, the resolutions! Eight - I’ll refrain from mass e-mailed the Filipino com- the cholesterol of lechon, chichar- to start any fire, unless those who
‘Ika nga, isinulat ko sa tubig eavesdropping from or listening munity media, but Henderson who ong bulaklak, adobo, and all those want to jump into the flames with
ang pangako at itinaga sa bato to nincompoops whose that’s- represents a group opposed to the oily but tasty Filipino dishes? me look forward to going to hell.
ang pagiging pasaway. a-lot-of-nonsense gobbledegook present FCT administration? Who doesn’t want healthy legs On the lighter side, I guess
So, like NASA, here is a drain my brain of juicier and How come incumbent FCT that can walk miles because of the I’ll start by not buying smokes
countdown I hope won’t propel fresh-from-the-grapevine talk. officials never lifted a hand to in- stupidity of losing a TTC ticket and by patronizing OPEC (Other
me to Mars: A case in point: If I and my form us of the same order? or not having a car one does not PEople’s Cigarettes).
Ten - I’ll never keep a cell- peers in the Filipino community We appreciate the information know how to drive? What the heck! I’ve got Ace
phone in my pant’s pockets. media have to wrestle any info on but do we have to take it hook, Who doesn’t want to have a Alvarez, Chuchi Punsalan, Myrna
Remember Vladimir Lagovski the costly, long-delayed and grow- liune and sinker when it did not likable, not like a ball, figure? I Soriano, Maribel Montemayor and
and Andrei Moiseynko from Kom- ingly annoying Filipino Centre come from Banack himself? wrote figure, not pig-yur, okay? thousands of other fuming Cancer
somolskaya Pravda Newspaper in Toronto (FCT) elections, then we Good graciousness! Who pro- Who doesn’t want to live long Society fans to back me up on this
Moscow who used cellphones to have to deal with and hear from vided our holier-than-thou e-mail enough to survive the drudgery of nasty project.
cook an egg? ONLY Larry Banack, as indicated addresses, which I thought is pro- earthly life -- where every move Omigosh! If things really go
Nine - I’ll always heed in a $1,500 order signed on Dec. tected by a Privacy Act in Canada, has costs and daily existence is awry as my sanity, here is my
friendly advice, and steer away 15 by Ontario Superior Court Jus- to a biased lawyer? measured by bills? Number 1 Resolution: I’ll stop
from friendly fire. tice Geoffrey Moravetz, accord- Holly molly! Henderson’s e- Five - I’ll stop being a part- complaining. ‘Ika nga, nasa Di-
Advice 1: Life is short. Enjoy ing to an e-mail we received from mail looked more of a sales pitch time jerk of all tirades (laging yos ang awa; nasa tao ang nga-
it. Don’t consult a doctor, much lawyer Peter Henderson. of a funeral parlor rather than a le- mainit ang ulo dahil walang wa!
less a lawyer. So, Mr. Banack -- the court- gal information. Pray, tell me, do I kayod). Come to think of it, I just HAPI NYU YIR, Kabayan.
Advice 2: Never even try to appointed chair of the FCT admis- have to send it to 10 others in the have to figure out a way to get rid [email protected]
Manila Media Monitor
JANUARY 2007 News 11
If you do not file a tax return, or if we
need more information, we will send you a
renewal application form in the mail. If you
receive a form from us, you must complete

Keeping seniors at ease

and return it as soon as you have all the nec-
essary income information, even if you file
a tax return. Each July, you will receive a
letter that tells you the new amount of your
monthly payment.
If you do not re-apply for the GIS ben-

Guaranteed Income Supplement efit in the spring, or if your income is now

too high to qualify for it, you will only get
the basic Old Age Security pension starting
PART 4
in July of that year.
(EDITOR’S NOTE: The Manila MEDIA
Eligibility
MONITOR has compiled a number of pro-
To qualify for the GIS, you must be en-
grams the federal government of Canada
titled to Old Age Security. Eligibility also
has been implementing to benefit the prov-
depends on whether your income and that
ince’s seniors. Manila MEDIA MONI-
of your spouse or common-law partner, if
TOR, in this series, will provide insights to
you have one, exceeds a specific amount.
these programs for seniors on this space,
Consult the Old Age Security Payment
hoping it would keep the paper’s valued
Rates for current benefit rates and maxi-
senior readers informed.)
mum income levels.
The Guaranteed Income Supplement Marriage, Separation
(GIS) provides additional money, on top If you marry or separate, or if your
of the Old Age Security pension, to low-in- spouse or common-law partner dies, you
come seniors living in Canada. To be eligi- must let us know because it may affect your
ble for the GIS benefit, you must be receiv- benefits. If you and your spouse or com-
ing the Old Age Security pension and meet mon-law partner are separated for reasons
the income requirements. beyond your control (for example, if one
Applying for GIS of you has to live in a hospital or nursing
You must apply for the Guaranteed In- home), you can each be considered as a
come Supplement (GIS). Contact us for an KABABAYAN SENIORS. Ruben and Maring Empalmado host a get-together single person if that will give you a higher
application form at 1 800 277-9914. of members of the Kababayan Seniors of the Kababayan Community Centre monthly payment.
You can also re-apply for GIS by filing at their Meadowgrove Court home in Mississauga. With the Empalmados are Income
your income tax return. The Seniors 55 and Pedring Baldovino, Tony Sicat, Conching Carandang, Aida Bondac, Nidia When applying for the GIS benefit, you,
up section of the CRA site contains infor- Baldovino, Nelly Sicat, Lolit Maghirang, Mameng Quidayan, Beloy and Lydia and in the case of a couple, you and your
mation on filing your tax return. Reyes, Perla Andaya, Johnny Maghirang and Joe Quidayan. PR spouse or common-law partner, must re-
If you did not qualify for the GIS ben- port the following income: Canada Pension
efit in the past, but you think you might be common-law partner you may be asked to declaration and provide other documenta- Plan or Québec Pension Plan; Benefits; Pri-
eligible now, you should apply as soon as complete and sign a “statutory declaration” tion as proof of your relationship. Contact vate pension income and superannuation;
possible. Normally, individuals must apply and provide other supporting documentation. us for a copy of this form and for help to Foreign pension income; RRSPs that you
for the GIS benefit on their own behalf. If Couples married in Canada. If you don’t complete the declaration. When you call, cashed; Employment Insurance benefits;
you are applying for someone else, please have your marriage certificate, there are two we will also tell you what other documents Interest on any savings; Any capital gains
contact us for more information. ways to get it: You can get a certificate from you will need. or dividends; Income from any rental prop-
Documentation the church in which you were married. You Renewing GIS benefits erties; Any employment income; Income
The type of documents you are required can contact the Registrar of Vital Statistics The GIS is based on annual income, or from other sources such as workers’ com-
to provide will depend on your marital status, in the capital city of the province or territory the combined annual income of you and pensation payments, alimony, etc.
the type of application you are making, and where you were married. your spouse or common-law partner. Since Benefits received from the Old Age Se-
whether you are applying for the first time. Couples married outside Canada. If your annual income can change from year curity program, including the GIS and the
The application kit will describe what you don’t know how to get a copy of your to year, renew your GIS each year. Allowance, are not included as income.
documents, if any, you need to provide. If marriage certificate, contact us. Most seniors automatically renew their In some situations, such as when you stop
you are married may be asked to provide a Common-law relationships (same sex GIS simply by filing their income tax return working or when your pension income
marriage certificate. If you are living with a or opposite sex). You must sign a statutory by April 30. (Continued to page 16)

Pillars strengthen Falls preventable,

links with gov’t Bradley tells elders
Ontario has launched its series of one-hour seminars on
The Pillars, falls prevention to help elders live safe, active and indepen-
the Filipino-Cana- dent lives.
dian seniors asso- Jim Bradley, provincial Minister Responsible for Seniors,
ciation in Ontario, said “each year, more than 24,000 seniors land in emergency
would go on link- rooms as a result of slipping or falling in and around their
ing with govern- homes.”
ment and other Ontario has spent $100,000 to produce the Falls Preven-
seniors’ groups in tion Seminar and Resource Kit, developed with inputs from
the province to get over 30 local, regional and national organizations.
the most of much Professionals from public health units and Osteoporosis
needed benefits for MARALAG Society chapters would conduct the seminars across Ontario.
its members. Bradley highlighted a number of ways for seniors to in-
Pillars president Frank Maralag said a crease their safety and make simple lifestyle changes to fall-
liaison committee would facilitate contacts proof their homes, such as:
with Toronto Mayor David Miller, through ► Keeping sidewalks, steps and driveways well lit.
the Toronto Seniors Forum and the Toronto ► Spreading salt or sand on icy walkways this winter.
Seniors’ Roundtable, and the Toronto Mu- ► Wearing non-slip, lightweight boots or walking shoes.
nicipal Council. ► Carrying a cell phone or whistle for emergencies.
Maralag said Pillars would also ► Walking with a friend or chaperon when possible. Ontario Minister Responsible for Seniors Jim Bradley
strengthen its coordination with the Office ► Replacing scatter mats with non-slip rugs . shows how a reacher can help seniors grab things
of Premier Dalton McGuinty in queen’s ► Installing nightlights in bedroom, hallway, bathroom. from high shelves safely.
Park and the Office of Prime Minister Ste- ► Using a cordless phone to avoid tripping on cords.
phen Harper in Ottawa. ► Wearing rubber-soled slippers that don’t slip off too resource kit.
He said attention would be given to se- easily. “Injuries cost Ontarians more than $5.7 billion annually and
niors’ needs like affordable housing, health “As the former Chair of our local-area hospital, I know are one of the most preventable health challenges facing this
maintenance, easy accessibility to transpor- that falls are a major cause of seniors’ admissions,” said Val- province,” said Health Promotion Minister Jim Watson.
tation and lower fares, security, care giv- may Barkey, executive director, Community Care City of Ontario’s seniors population is expected to more than double
ing, among others. RAZ Kawartha Lakes, which played a lead role in developing the to 3.2 million by 2028. PR
12 Feature Manila Media Monitor
JANUARY 2007

Improvements needed to lessen abuse

Under the Live-In Caregiver Program
For the past twenty By FELY O. VILLASIN to meet the requirements to
years, INTERCEDE, a (Editor’s Note: Fely O. Villasin arrived in Canada in 1974, become landed immigrants.
non-profit community along with many others who fled the Philippines then under The temporary work
organization working with the military dictatorship of President Ferdinand Marcos. permit system endows
newcomers in Toronto, has She became very active in the anti-Marcos movement, using employers and employment
been assisting women and theater as a part of political organizing. She was one of the agencies with extraordinary
men admitted to Canada founders of the then Carlos Bulosan Cultural Workshop (now influence over the worker’s
as nannies, caregivers, and the Carlos Bulosan Theater) in Toronto, which produced destiny.
domestic workers under a fascinating array of plays over the years. An activist who This is because the
the Immigration Live-in loved theater, Fely left a legacy of popular education using work permit must specify
Caregiver Program (LCP). the stage as a medium. Two years ago, Fely wrote this web- the name of the employer
Consequently, published article, which Manila Media Monitor is reprinting, in whose household the
INTERCEDE has been worker must not only work
to seek better treatment for Filipino women employed under
fully aware of the inhumane but also live in.
Canada’s Live-In Caregiver Program. Fely passed away on
and slavery-like conditions In effect, the continuity
Dec. 27. She may no longer be around but her ideas and spirit
described in the articles and of the LCP worker’s
editorial about Canada’s live on.) valid status in Canada is
Live-in Caregiver Program by Human Resources and changed and improved if elderly or disabled. They are, in effect, dependent on the employer’s
(LCP) which appeared in Skills Development Canada Canada is to live up to its One has only to look at migrant workers on a willingness to continue her
the Toronto Star on Oct. 30, and the Status of Women human rights commitments the tangle of requirements temporary one-year rene- employment, or on a new
31; Nov. 2, and again on Canada – a review which is and to its reputation as a and regulations with wable work permit. employer obtained by an
Dec. 5, 2004. supposed to be “looking to human rights champion. which LCP workers must It will take them employment agency.
The Star articles have prevent the kinds of abuses” In a sense, the LCP, comply to understand how from three to four years to Understandably, every
once again raised concerns outlined in the Star stories. a federal immigration much power and control receive permanent resident LCP caregiver is focused
about the exploitation and This is all very well and program which has been employers, employment status, after completing two on meeting the 24-month
abuses, including sexual good and about time. lauded by government and recruiting agencies, years of live-in caregiver live-in work requirement
assault, experienced by But INTERCEDE bureaucrats and immigration immigration officers, and work within three years of within three years so that
foreign caregivers and has often stressed, and “experts” as the best and, of even their own communities arriving in Canada under she/he will achieve the goal
nannies at the homes of now again reiterates, that course, cheapest model of a can wield over their lives. the LCP. of permanent residency and
their employers. the helplessness and program for bringing skilled To begin with, care- This temporary status thus begin the reunification
In reaction, (then) vulnerability to abuse of and other needed workers to givers under the LCP are causes the state of insecurity, of her family in Canada.
Immigration Minister LCP workers stem mainly Canada, is, unhappily, also not admitted as permanent anxiety and vulnerability In anticipation of
Judy Sgro has promised from the requirements of the source of the abuse and residents or landed immi- which characterize the life landed status, LCP workers
to “protect” them by the LCP itself. exploitation heaped upon grants the way other of caregivers in the LCP. will, and do, suffer almost
considering the results of The Live-in Caregiver foreigners who come to professionals and skilled They live lives of any deprivation and abuse
a review being undertaken Program itself must be care for our children, the workers are. constant stress while striving (Continued to page 16)

Wishing you a Prosperous and Healthy New Year!

Manila Media Monitor
JANUARY 2007 Feature 13

‘Saudi’ Alberta: Oasis for OFWs?

BY TENNY SORIANO
From the desert sands of Saudi Oil sands, as defined, are de- sands deposits in the world -- Al-
a recent training program to re- priority than those who are apply-
Arabia, another work destination posits of bitumen, a very viscous berta, Canada and Venezuela.
cruit some 250 Filipinos in Al- ing from outside of Canada for
awaits the adventurous OFWs oil that will not flow unless heated Just how busy workers are in
berta as temporary workers was the logical reason that they have
(Overseas Filipino Workers), this or diluted. the oil sands is borne by the fact
launched in Manila. already a good idea of existing
time in the “oil sands“ of Alberta, Unlike conventional crude oil that in one year alone, a total of
These people are to be issued conditions and lifestyles of the
Canada. which flows naturally and easily 20,000 oil exploration holes were
work permits and deployed to country.
This Western Canadian prov- pumped from the ground, Alber- drilled in Alberta.many hotels now sprouting in that Already, there is a noted rise
ince, famous for its cowboy- ta’s oil requires some additional Peter Sutherland, Canada’s
Canadian province. of exodus to Western Canada,
themed festival known as the upgrading before it can be refined, ambassador to the Philippines
More workers are much-need- more notably in Alberta and other
Calgary stampede, is enjoying an diluted with lighter hydrocarbons who recently spoke before Fili-
ed to fill the vacuum left by lo- parts where the oil sands boom
unprecedented economic boom, before it can flow and transported pino-Canadians in Toronto, said
cal Canadians who deserted their has reached out.
triggering an upsurge of employ- by pipelines. Western Canada has a “high de-
original jobs to try their luck in Multicultural groups from
ment opportunities never before “Malapot na malapot, parang mand for workers“ particularly in
high-paying oil sands positions. Toronto’s Tamils, Indians, Filipi-
seen since the days of the Klond- pulot “ (it’s very viscous and sim- the oil sands of Alberta.
In one town of Alberta, restau- nos, Europeans and others have
ike gold rush. ilar to molasses), said a Filipino He said Filipinos have a better
rants and other service companies started the trek to the oil sands
It is the new “Saudi,” the worker who’s been there. chance of landing jobs in places
were forced to shut down for lack where some say the pay scale
new oil-rich kingdom this side of There are only two biggest oil in Canada like Alberta because
of manpower. average reaches between $18 per
North America. they speak good English and
Sutherland announced that hour upwards for ordinary work-
Alberta’s oil sands reserve is have a high level of educa-
there is now a policy proposal to ers alone.
second only to Saudi Arabia and tion. allow temporary workers to apply And future job opportunities
described by Time magazine as Sutherland said
for permanent residence while are going to grow by threefold or
“Canada’s greatest buried energy they are in Canada. more, say business forecasters.
treasure” and “could satisfy the He said It says oil production will rise
world’s demand for petroleum for such applica- to 4.5 million barrels per day by
the next century.” tion will also the year 2015 from the current 2.5
The oil boom has created a be processed million.
shortage of workers in Alberta faster. This means it would pro-
and predictions say that because And be- pel Canada to the No. 4 position
of this, wages and salaries will cause these among the world’s oil producers
go up as companies will compete temporary next to Saudi Arabia, Russia and
with each other to lure and hire workers the United States.
workers and other professionals. have spent For OFWs who have to en-
And because of the very na- some time dure strict laws and traditions in
ture of Alberta’s oil sands as com- in Canada, most oil-rich Muslim nations like
pared to regular Saudi crude oil, Sutherland Saudi Arabia, the new “Saudi Al-
more workers are required to ex- Pioneer prospectors and workers explore the vast Athabasca oil sand fields. said they berta“ could well be the new “oa-
tract the product. Wikipedia from the Canada Archives will be given sis.”
 Energy Feature Manila Media Monitor
14 JANUARY 2007

heat. aesthetic appeal of a location.

savings in
Ultrasonic sensors send out ultrasonic They are available in several styles and
pulses and measure the reflection of a mov- fields of view for use in hallways, corridors,
ing object. These are best suited for cover- aisles and open office areas.
ing a wide area. Some models can be used outdoors as
Microwave sensors bounce microwaves well as in locations subject to extreme cold,

motion
off an object, similar to the technology used such as walk-in freezers and refrigerators.
in police radar guns. The cost for a sensor can range from $10
Consumer products such as wall switch up to $150 and some data has suggested the
sensors and wall-mounted passive infrared return on investment of a sensor is likely to
sensors put these technologies to work in be more than 40 percent a year and can be
the energy-conscious home or business. as much as 100 per cent.
BY ALVIN POON
The wall switch products generally have Motion sensors are being promoted by
Like many other energy management than a light that has been shining constant- 180-degree fields of view and can be used The Conservation Bureau through the “Ev-
devices in the market, motion sensors not ly. It will also help scare off intruders. in new or retrofit applications. ery Kilowatt Counts” campaign.
only deliver utility value but also provide “In Ontario, we have had inexpensive, They are best suited for enclosed offic- Ontarians are being offered money-sav-
savings in energy costs. reliable power for a long time,” said Sta- es, rest rooms, conference rooms, storage ing coupons to reduce the cost of buying
Consider this. cey Hare, a marketing expert with Select- closets and areas up to 1,200 square feet. motion sensors and other energy efficiency
You arrive home at night in the middle power, the retail affiliate of Guelph Hydro. Wall-mount passive infrared sensors are products. These coupons are redeemable in
of winter. Having forgotten to leave an out- “That is changing, and we need to be more designed so that they don’t detract from the over 3,000 retail stores.
side light on, you fumble in the cold and in control of our energy use.”
dark for your keys. “Lower demand by homeowners
But with an installed motion sensor, means we have to generate less power,”
you approach your front door and the light Hare added, noting that products such as
comes on automatically. motion sensors cut energy demand.
In this scenario, you will have benefited Hare cited the example of basement
in at least three ways. You’ve saved money rooms where kids tend to congregate and
because you haven’t left the porch lights then vacate with the lights still blazing.
on all evening. Your home’s security has A motion sensor will help. If there is
been enhanced because any motion at your no activity in the room after a certain pe-
front door would have been detected and riod of time, the lights will go off, saving
“brought to light.” And third, you’re out of energy.
the cold and through the front door faster. Beyond conservation and security, mo-
“In residential homes, outdoor secu- tion sensors offer a wide range of advan-
rity lights can account for a large portion tages and benefits, such as convenience, a
of overall lighting costs, and they are of- variety of residential and commercial ap-
ten left on when not needed,” noted Peter plications, a wide range of indoor and out-
Love, Ontario’s Chief Energy Conservation door uses, no minimum load requirement
officer. and built-in surge protection.
Motion sensors are good choices for There are three basic types of motion
saving money and improving security. detectors in use today.
A light that suddenly turns on will be Passive infrared sensors detect changes
better noticed by neighbors and passers-by in the infrared spectrum and look for body
Manila Media Monitor
JANUARY 2007 15 Milestones
2006: Another
full circle for
Manila Media
Monitor readers
REUNION PRELUDE. Mapa High School alumni and friends
meet at the Oakville residence of Carmelita Spittal, president
of the Ontario Chapter, to prepare for the 12th International
Reunion of Mapa High School Alumni Association of USA &
Canada at the Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort from July 26
to 29. DS
P I D C
AWARDEE.
Philippine
Courier pub-
lisher-edi-
tor Ramon
Datol (2nd
from left)
receives a
plaque of
2ND CHRISTMAS. Caitlyn Malia apprecia-
enjoys opening her presents with tion from
Papa Michael, a VP of Investment Philippine
of Northern Trust, and Mama Me- Independence Day Council officials Rafael Nebres (right) and
lissa. Michael is the son of Balita’s Karen Binaday (3rd from left) as Consul General Alejandro
Tess Cusipag. Mosquera looks on. PR

RUBBING ELBOWS. Ontario New Democratic Party leader Howard Hampton

Friends and relatives celebrate with Lourdes Buenaobra (4th from left) her (2nd from right) rubs elbows with and engages Manila Media Monitor Pub-
60th birth anniversary recently. Among them are (front row): Catia, Julia, Gi- lisher and Managing Editor Ace Alvarez (right), Associate Editor and Front
zelle, (back row ) Cristina, Nerlou, Rowena, Irene, Jennifer, Dr. Arla Rondilla Page Philippines TV host Gie Alvarez (2nd from left), Editor Butch Galicia
and Alyssa. VA (3rd from left) and Evelyn Galicia in a conversation on the role of the com-

Lazaro swears in Manzanares, other PTA officers, directors munity media in Ontario’s political landscape during the Canadian Ethnic
Media Association (CEMA) Season’s Dinner.
MISSISSAUGA - Philippine Vice Con- Carmen Hauyon, public relations officer.
sul in Toronto Edna May Grecia-Lazaro Directors who took their oaths are Ar-
swore in Leonie Manzanares as president of thur Apilado, Brigida Cohen, Boni Curutan,
the newly-formed Philippine Teachers As- Tessie Lagtapon., Marlene Mogado, Maria
sociation in its first induction of executive Sonia Pascual, Amparo Rosario, Mae Sa-
officers and directors here on Dec. 16. jorme, Mercy Santos and Myrna Valencia.
Other officers sworn in are Rose Cruz, Advisers are Rose Bustamante and
vice president for social and external af- Emiliano Silverio.
fairs; Tony San Juan, vice president for pol- PTA, composed of community educa-
icy and programs; Bernadette Gapuz, secre- tors, is a non-profit, apolitical, socio-pro-
tary; Rossette Santiago, assistant secretary; fessional entity formed on April 29, 2006.
Pet Collantes, treasurer; Noemi Andaya, It has about 80 members who strive to
assistant treasurer; Rose Apilado, auditor; to contribute and participate in academical-
Marissa Miano, business manager; and ly-related activities in the community. TSJ

OLPC QUEEN PCCT HOLIDAY CHEERS. The annual Philippine Chamber of Commerce-To-
OF CHARITY. ronto Christmas Party is kept alive by people representing various groups--
Past Regent Te- community, business, and media organizations. The December 16 gathering
odoro Lopez of was held at the Sts. Peter and Paul Banquet Hall in Scarborough, Ontario.
the Daughters Manila Media Monitor Photo
of Isabella, Our

ADVERTISE WITH
Lady of Peace
Circle # 1297
beams after be-
ing crowned
Queen of Char-
ity during the CFT LADIES. Vilma Asayas, Delia
circle’s silver Von Possell, Nila Olares and Nida
jubilee celebra- Hontanosas give the Club Filipino
tion. JT of Toronto, headed by George Hon-
tanosas, a hand during the club’s
Yule gathering. NC/JT CALL 416-285-8583
JANUARY 2007 Manila Media Monitor 16 PCCT turns over final GK Village
check during Christmas fete
ANCOP Canada Inc. president
Ricky Cuenca (left), expresses
his appreciation to the Philip-
pine Chamber of Commerce-
Toronto (PCCT), represented
by Rafael Nebres, chair of the
PCCT Gawad Kalinga Village
Project, and president Cora
dela Cruz, following the turn-
over of a check representing
the complete payment for a 20-
unit housing project in Sucat, Paranaque City, the Philippines. The check turn-
over was made during the PCCT Christmas Party (all photos on the left) , Dec.
16, 2006 in Scarborough, Ontario. Donors are Bert and Cora dela Cruz (Dela-
marc Travel); Henrique and Alicia Sia (Golden Valley Food Outlets and Restau-
rant); Oswald and Isa Tugadi (ALBEE Enterprises); Ace and Gie Alvarez (Manila
Media Monitor Inc.); Ben Ponce (A.C. Ponce Financial Services); Cristina and
Leo Aguilar (Forever Living Products); Rafael and Sylvia Nebres (Action Honda);
Bobby and Lorna Achacon (Bicol Express Restaurant); Boanerjes Villabroza
(Hamilton Fitness); Flor Vendiola and Melchor Galeon (FV Foods); Steve and
Cora Pagao (DTD Services); Evelyn and David Pagkalinawan (Bazura Bags);
Elizabeth Leggett (Certified Public Accountant); Gemma Jamuyot (CHIC Bags);
Tess and Jess Mallari (Mabini Express); and Marlou Tiro (Tiro Marketing). Four
units would be built at the village, for a total of 24 units, funding of which came, or
Improvements needed to lessen abuse ... would come, from collective efforts of the PCCT. Photos: Louie Pagdagdagan;
Text: Ace Alvarez & Rafael Nebres
(From page 12)
in the hands of employers.
An employer conscious of the
experience.
This requirement to live-in
employer, as well as application
and Right of Landing fees which
But to the extent of discri-
minating against women and Mosquera to induct
power s/he has over the fate of the
caregiver who is obliged to live-
the employer’s house is mainly
why caregivers are commonly
are prohibitive and punitive for
caregivers.
migrants, and violating their labor
and human rights? Tanza Ass’n officers
in his household can be capable subjected to excessive hours of The demand for caregivers As a signatory to most of Philippine Consul General in
of the grossest violation of human work, underpayment, and unpaid in Canada has been consistently the United Nations’ international Toronto Alejandro Mosquera will
rights and the most unscrupulous overtime. high, and it will continue to grow human rights conventions and induct into office the officers of the
infractions of labor laws. We can only guess at the as our population ages. the Beijing Platform for Action, Tanza, Cavite Association (St.Au-
The articles give a few illus- economic contribution foreign However, the appreciation Canada must comply with gustine) at the St. Boniface Catho-
trations of such shameful deeds caregivers have been making, for people who give care to our its obligations starting with lic Church in Markham and Eglin-
from the least harmful (such as individually to their employers children and elders, workers improving the Live-in Caregiver ton at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 27.
forking out gambling money) in the form of unpaid work, and who are in such huge demand, Program. President Edgardo Torres and
to the most venal (such as rape, to the country in the form of is so badly rewarded with abuse, Canada can do this by vice president Manding Blancaflor
forced confinement and slavery) – cheap child and elder care, and exploitation, loneliness for allowing caregivers to enter will lead the inductees.
all without much consequence for yes, taxes - not only those they their loved ones, isolation and Canada without discrimination as Other officers who will be
the perpetrators nor vindication pay themselves, but also those discrimination. landed immigrants; eliminate the sworn in are Ellen Figueroa, secre-
for the victims. paid by their freed up female This is a crying shame that live-in condition for their valid tary and Shirley Reyes, treasurer.
Because LCP caregivers employers. the Canadian government covers status; issue generic work permits The Board of Advisers are Mr.
must live in their place of work The Canadian Government its eyes to and refuses to hear, an that are not dependent on a specific and Mrs. Sam Fojas, Mr. and Mrs.
as a condition of continued valid is party to gouging of caregivers’ opportunistic way of responding employer; and allow them to bring Lope Perea, Mr. and Mrs. Tenny
status, they are not able to bring meager minimum wage income by to migrants’ desperation for a their families along. Soriano, Mr. and Mrs.Dolly Sosa,
their families along and must deducting employment insurance better future in Canada. Foreign caregivers are willing Danilo Ching, Mimi Colmenar,
suffer years, from five or more, of and pension payments which the We have often heard the to come to this country to care for Domingo Abug and Mr. and Mrs.
separation from their spouse and temporary workers have no right justification that the Live-in our most valued resources: our Paul Clavero.
children. to. Caregiver Program gives those children and our elders. Tanza is an historic town where
Caregivers have pointed to Then there are the fees to who would otherwise not qualify, Let’s give them the recognition the first Philippine Republic under
this forced separation as the worst renew work permits every year a chance to become immigrants in they need, which consists of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo was pro-
violence against women they or every time the worker changes Canada. simple justice and fairness. claimed.

Ooops & Bloops ... Guaranteed Income ... CMC sets gab on
Law in Community
(From page 6) (From page 11)
He replied, “Walang ano man.” Mon said later, “I thought it drops, we can calculate your payments directly into bank ac-
So, again, I responded, was at Golden Valley’s.” GIS benefit by estimating your in- counts through our direct deposit The Canadian Multicultural
“Maraming salamat ulit.” He sent (The PCCT board has no come for this year, instead of us- service. Monthly payments dates Council of Asians in Ontario
back a note again, saying, “Walang further comment.) ing last year’s income. are available on the Web site. (CMC), with support of the Philip-
ano man.” *** If you or your spouse or com- Moving pine Independence Day Council,
I noted that the first time I sent Message received from Butch, mon-law partner have a lower in- If you are planning to move, is inviting members of the Filipi-
out my e-mail was 1:10 a.m., and December 24: come this year for either of these you must contact us with your no-Canadian community to attend
up to the time that I got Butch’s Ace, Gie and family: reasons, you should let us know. new address and postal code as a free information session on Law
last ‘Walang ano man’ was almost Harinawa’y sumainyo ang Your benefits may increase. soon as possible. This will allow in the Community at the Chinese
2 a.m. kaligayahang dulot ng Kapanga- Receiving GIS us to update our records and make Cultural Centre on Jan. 13.
So, I sent him an e-mail with nakan ni HesuKristo. If you are eligible for the GIS sure that your payment gets to you The session includes a forum
a Netsky Virus. Friends, thus ex- Maligayang Pasko, benefit, we will add it to your Old on time. Even if your payments on how the Canadian judicial sys-
plains why I was able to sleep fi- Butch, Evelyn, Lynette, Fran- Age Security pension payment are deposited directly into your tem works and a mock trial pre-
nally; likewise, explains why Ma- cis, Nicoy, Gabriel, Raphael each month. bank account, we still need to sided over by a real judge over-
nila Media Monitor got delayed Taken into consideration, the You can find the exact pay- know your new address so we can seeing court action with a jury,
for a few days - the editor had to beauty of the Filipino language, ment dates on the web site http:// send you important information prosecutors and accused.
have his computer fixed. I wrote back: “Maraming salamat www.hrsdc.gc.ca/asp/gateway. and your yearly income tax slip. The session will also feature
*** sa pagbati mo, sampu ng iyong asp?hr=en/isp/pub/oas/gismain. If we need to contact you for police recruitment and legal ser-
The PCCT sent an invitation pamilya.” shtml&hs=ozs. additional income information, vices programs available to the
to Mon Datol, Publisher and It was at this point where the Payments usually arrive in the we will know where to reach you. community.
Editor of Philippine Courier to problem arose. Butch sent another last three banking days of each You can notify us of a change A job fair starts at 1 p.m. and
cover the organization’s Christ- message, “Hindi ko maipakita kay month. If your payment is late by of address 24 hours a day, seven the mock trial begins at 2 p.m.
mas Party at the Sts. Peter and Evelyn ang pagbati mo at baka more than a week, or if you lose days a week by calling our auto-
Paul Banquet Hall in Scarbor- hanapin ‘yong siyam ko pang your payment, please contact us. mated telephone system at 1-800-
ough, Ontario last month. pamilya.” If you apply late and are eligi- 277-9914. Why advertise
At the time of the event, Mon Having read this, I thought: ble to receive the GIS, we can give You will be asked for your Social elsewhere?
- with PPCO member Miguel “Kung hindi la’ng kailangan ng you a retroactive payment of up to Insurance Number, your new address
Caducio - proceeded to Golden Manila Media Monitor ang isang 11 months plus the month in which and postal code and your telephone
CALL
Valley’s Banquet Hall and found
no PCCT event at the place.
magaling na editor, e talagang
mababaril ko itong si Butch, e.”
we receive your application.
Normally, we deposit pension
number with your area code.
(To be continued next issue)
416-285-8583
 Manila Media Monitor
17 JANUARY 2007
Resolved! ...
(From page 1)
RP CONSULAR STAFFMEMBER -
I resolve to keep more frequently in touch
with family and kin. I’ve been pretty preoc-
cupied for the past year that I have taken
them for granted for quite a time.
DENNIS DEVEZA - I shall always
smile. Someone once told me that success
will come ‘if you keep that big smile in
your face.’
CYNTHIA GARCIA - My New Year’s
Resolution is to be patient. Why? Being im-
patient is stressful so para mabawasan ang
stress ko at hindi ako ma-high blood, I’ll try
to be patient especially with bus drivers.
YVONNE CUÑADA - I will continue
with my mint gums as I quit smoking. It has
been three months since my last puff.
RP CONSULAR STAFFMEMBER
- I will surely go for a healthy regimen and
will stick to it. That includes good balance
in life. Why? Because, I’d like to grow old
gracefully, retire in the Philippines (home
sweet home) and dance with my grandchil-
dren (how cute!). Hey, wait a minute, I’m
not even 40 yet. Seriously, I’d go for that!
AMY BANTILLO - I resolve to get
married this year to my eight-year boy-
friend in Roxas City.
VIRGILIO DAGASDAS & RENE
DELGADO - We promise to work hard
and earn more cash. Perhaps, we would
have more resources to help the needy and
the poor in our homeland.
RP CONSULAR STAFFMEMBER
- I firmly resolve not to have any more ac-
cidents, if that can be avoided.
Around the world, a Reuters report from
London said that striking a better balance
between work and play, taking more exer-
cise and avoiding disastrous relationships
top resolution lists this New Year.
Research group ACNielsen surveyed
consumers in 46 countries and found from
the United States to Vietnam that more than
half of those interviewed wanted work to
play a lesser role in their lives in 2007.
One in three US consumers -- who have
the highest rate of obesity in the developed
world -- also planned to go on a diet.
“Consumers have realized a healthy
lifestyle is not about the latest celebrity diet
or trendy exercise fads, but is simply about
having a balanced diet and lifestyle,” ACN-
ielsen Europe President Patrick Dodd said.
Smoking bans passed in 2006 in coun-
tries from Spain to Uruguay looked to be
bolstering the global health trend with one
in five smokers polled admitting they were
aiming to cut down or quit next year.
Exercise was also in the spotlight, with
Filipinos, Australians and Singaporeans
most committed to being more active.
“In many countries, 2006 was the year
that “natural” and “organic” moved into the
mainstream and this trend is likely to gain
momentum in the year ahead,” Dodd said.
The drive to detox also stretched to more
intimate parts of people’s lives. One in five
consumers globally said they wanted 2007
to be the year they avoided “disastrous re-
lationships.”
And if the above are not just enough for
a wish list, here are some more resolutions
many people made at the onset of 2007.
The resolutions: Lose weight, make
more time for myself and my family, have
more fun, make more money, get to the
gym, eat better, go someplace I have always
wanted to visit, make up with a crazy fami-
ly member, befriend a competitor or enemy,
quit drinking, be friendlier, slow down on
shopping sprees, stick to household bud-
gets, stay out of trouble, avoid casinos and
other gambling places, etc. etc. etc.
JANUARY 2007 Manila Media Monitor 18

AN OPEN LETTER to FCMA MEMBERS and the

FILIPINO COMMUNITY
December15, 2006

Dear Colleagues of the Filipino Canadian Medical Association:

It has come to our attention that all of the members of the association recently received a letter from Dr. Francisco Portugal regarding the upcoming elections of
the Filipino Centre Toronto (FCT). In the letter, Dr. Portugal stated that it was important to understand the issues so that “an intelligent and unbiased decision could
be made” regarding which candidates should be supported, and whether the FCT should receive contributions from our association. Unfortunately, Dr. Portugal’s
letter is a clear condemnation of the current FCT Board, and we are compelled to clarify the facts in order that intelligent and unbiased decisions may truly be
made.
For the record, we would like to offer a rebuttal to the points that Dr. Portugal had made:
Legal fees. Dr. Portugal correctly states that the process the FCT has undergone in the last year has been very, very expensive. However, it is difficult to see
how Dr. Portugal can suggest that the expense was unnecessary, when it was incurred only as a result of a court application he launched, in which his allegations of
wrongdoing were made against the current Board. If Dr. Portugal’s only goal was to regularize the operation of the FCT, something which was admittedly needed,
then such allegations were unnecessary, and the cost of defending them would have been avoided.
Annual Meetings. The Judgment rendered by Justice Morawetz in the Application notes that the Board had erred in not calling annual meetings, and had failed
to follow the provisions in the Constitution in doing so. It must be remembered, however, that Dr. Portugal himself, and other FCT members who follow him, were
members of the FCT Board during these times, the times when FCT was judged “to have lost its way.” Therefore, they also bear responsibility for the fact elections
were not held as scheduled.
Justice Morawetz specifically ordered that the current FCT Board was to remain in control of the FCT operations pending the elections. Had he been convinced
there had been mismanagement, Justice Morawetz would have removed the current Board and ended its operation of the Filipino Centre, Toronto.
In addition, as in any corporation, the major item to be presented in an annual general meeting is a financial report. This was the responsibility of Edgar Adan,
a current member of Dr. Portugal’s group, the then chief financial officer of the Filipino Centre, Toronto. Edgar Adan never delivered the 2003 financial report, and
it was completed in 2005 by Julito Longkines.
It is also important to remember that in the early days of the FCT, the Board members were busy running the operations of the FCT, including the management
of the building which now houses its offices, and dealing with the day-to-day issues which occur in the upkeep of an older tenanted building.These duties and func-
tions called for constant attention, and it must be remembered that all this work was done on a volunteer basis. There was no money at that time to hire a building
manager or superintendent to attend to these time consuming requirements, and the job fell primarily to Rosalinda and Felino Javier, who found themselves on call
24 hours a day. The major objective in those early days was to make the FCT a viable community centre, which was financially sound and served the community
well. Holding elections and annual meetings fell aside under the constant and monumental pressure of creating the community center and managing its assets.
Allegations of Suspicious Transactions. Dr. Portugal alleged that in the financial report for 2003, which Longkines did not complete until 2005, “suspicious
financial transactions” had been discovered, and he has specifically singled out Rosalinda and Felino Javier in his accusations. He has neglected to mention that
each and every allegation was fully and completely answered in the materials prepared during the court application. In addition, the current Board was awarded
full indemnification for all costs incurred in the application filed by Portugal, Adan and Camilla Jones, something Justice Morawetz would not have awarded had
he found there had been wrongdoing or neglect on the part of any member of the Board.
Dr. Portugal suggests that Felino Javier is receiving close to $3000 per month as building superintendent. No one can question that a building of this nature re-
quires a full time superintendent. While the position has been offered to and accepted by Mr. Javier, he has not received any reimbursement for this superintendent’s
job, as the FCT is currently in a position where the court process has drained its cash resources. Dr. Portugal complains that the position was not offered to the
general public, but it is certain that no one would have accepted the position on the basis as has Mr. Javier, that is, that he will only be paid if and when the FCT has
the funds to do so. In the meantime, he fulfills the job of the superintendent’s position.
Allegations of Missing Membership Records. Dr. Portugal contends that the current Board has deliberately misplaced or destroyed records relating to the FCT
memberships of persons in his camp. What he again neglects to say is that at the time these members who joined the FCT, Adan and Erlinda Gallardo, both of whom
are supporters of Dr. Portugal, were the persons in charge of membership who bore the responsibility for keeping these records. If these “misplaced or destroyed
records relating to the FCT memberships in his camp” were never obtained or misplaced, the responsibility does not lie with the current Board.
Dr. Portugal alleges that on the surface it may appear as if the FCT is well run but in reality, it is not. The Centre is serving the community. There is a
seniors program, FCT works with a youth club and together, they honor outstanding Filipino students, and a homework club for the students who have difficulty.
Tagalog classes are held. A health program is in place with a free clinic, health education seminars and advocacy group. There is also a walk in clinic to serve our
kababayans who need a family doctor. This is manned by volunteer physicians with busy practices, who take time out from their schedule to render their services,
hence, the need for appointments. The walk in clinic at the Centre differs from most walk-in clinics as it is not established as a for profit corporation.
The neighborhood is already aware of the Filipino community, which has become the largest participant in the Cabbagetown festival. Recreational activities
have been provided including dancing classes, Filipino Singing Idol contests and the huge cultural presentation, called Pistahan There are meeting rooms for various
members of the community to congregate. The library is open to anyone who wishes to avail of the materials on Filipino culture, traditions and values.
This IS a community centre that is well run, through the hard work and dedication of the FCT officers. And the building, which was purchased for $1,000,050,
is now worth an estimated value of $2,900,000 by conservative real estate estimates, due mainly to the renovations done and management of the building. The
FCT exists to serve the Filipino people. It is performing a service to the community. The Filipinos in Toronto deserve to have a centre run by people whose only
agenda is to serve the community.
Consider the track records and history of all the different individuals interested in the Filipino Centre, Toronto:
Who are the builders? Who work for the good of the community? However, who work for themselves? Who are those who tear down the good that had been
started? Who are those who always criticize and destroy?
“To everything, there is a season and a time for every purpose
A time to build, a time to heal, a time to gather together.”
It is a time for speaking!
We would like to express our confidence in the sincerity, honesty and integrity of the present leadership of the Filipino Centre. Like any organization, there
will always be differences of opinion on the style of leadership. There will always be people who are dissatisfied. However, we truly believe that it is in the best
interests of the Filipino community that the current leadership be retained.

Truly yours,

Dr. MARIO ANDRES Dr. MARIA ANTONINA DE VILLA Dr. VICTORIA SANTIAGO
Chairman, FCT Comprehensive Health FCT Vice Chairman, Board of Directors FCT Chairman, Board of Directors
and Wellness

Paid Advertisement
JANUARY 2007 Manila Media Monitor 19

Dear Eligible Voters,

Go out and vote on this coming election! Vote for us! We
provide a strong team of candidates with the Experience, ROSALINDA CERRUDO-JAVIER MARIA LUISA (Luchi) SIVILIA
Qualifications, Character and Leadership that FCT needs!
MARIO R. ANDRES SUZETTE CRESENCIA • BSE, UP, 1963; M. Sc. E, • Salutatorian, First to
M.D., F.R.C.P.C. Upstate New York, 1977 • Fourth Year, Neg. Occ.
Retired Ontario Teacher High School, Bacolod City
• Graduate, UP College • B.S. Medical Technol- with Smith Falls, Ont. • B.S. Chemical Eng’g,
of Medicine, 1964, Certi- ogy, University of Sto. To- Catholic Board, ‘68-’70; University of the Phil. •
fied • Director, Free Clinic mas • Member, Canadian Dufferin Peel Catholic Miss NWSA 1965-1966,
and Health and Wellness Society of Laboratory Board, ‘70-‘97 • Founder, Atimonan (Quezon) Assn Manila, Phil. • Chemical Engineer, Dept of Works,
Services, FCT • Found- Technologists • Member, of Ontario & Michigan; Pres., QPAC 1998 to date • Metro Toronto • Honours Specialist in Math & Sci-
ing President, Filipino- Ontario Society of Medi- Member, Board of Directors, UPAA Toronto, 2003 ence, Faculty of Education, U of T • Specialist in
Canadian Medical Assn. • Queens Silver Jubilee cal Technologists • Retired Medical Laboratory to date • Ont, Prov’cial Gov’t appointee: Ontario Special Education (Gifted/LD), Faculty of Ed., U of
medalist in Medicine, 1978 • Ten Most Outstand- Technologist, The Wellesley Hospital, University Council of Nurses, 2005 • Founding President & T • Recipient, INCO Award for Sec. Sch. Teachers,
ing Canadians, 1974, Calgary • Most Outstanding Health Network (Princess Margaret Hospital) • CEO, Filipino Centre, Toronto (FCT), 2000 to date • U of T • Retired High School Teacher, Math and Sp.
Alumnus, UPAA, Toronto, 2002 • Community Ser- Member, UST Alumni Association of Ontario • Oversees all the Operations, Services and Activi- Ed, Toronto District School Bd. • Council Member,
vice Volunteer Awards, Toronto, 2006 Vice President, University of Sto. Tomas Phar- ties of FCT (building and organization) College of Nurses of Ontario • Committee Mem-
macy, Med. Tech., Botany & Biochemistry Alumni ber, Complaints, Quality Assurance, Nominating
WENDELINA (Wendy) ARENA Association of North America • Board Member, & Finance, CNO • Board Member, Filipino Centre,
MERCY MALIGLIG
Filipino Centre, Toronto Toronto • Board Member, Toronto Centre-Rose-
dale Provincial Liberal Association
• Bachelor of Science in EFREN DE VILLA • UST, B.S. Pre-Medicine;
Commerce, University MCU, College of Den- LAURA TIAMSON
of Santo Tomas • Fellow, tistry • Lab Technician,
Life Management Institute • BS in Education, Batan- Wellesley Hospital, 1977-
of Canada & Associate gas City State University; 1997 • Lab Supervisor • B.S. in Physiotherapy,
Life and Health Claims Master of Arts in Psychol- for 5 years • Proprietor, Emilio Aguinaldo College,
Examiner • Claims & Taxation Specialist and Li- ogy, Arellano University • Agincourt ECG Services • Regent, Daughters of Phil. • Graduate, Business
censed personal financial analyst • Executive Life Insurance & Financial Isabella, 1987-89 • President, FILPAR, 1998-2006 • Administration & Manage-
Administrator, Folklorico Filipino Canada • Vice Advisor • Retired Canadi- Board Member, Silayan Community Centre, 1987- ment, Humber College of
President, FCT in charge of Fund Raising and Cul- an National Railway employee, Freight Car Plan- 98; Coordinator, Pilipino Classes • Board Member, Applied Arts & Technol-
tural Programs • Office Manager, FCT • Married to ner/Inspector & Safety Liaison Officer • Volunteer, Filipino Centre, Toronto; Co-Chair, Dazzling 40, ogy, Toronto • Branch Manager, Famous Seafood
Paul Arena and has one son, Roland St. John Ambulance, Division Superintendent, Pilipino Class Restaurant in North America • Youngest Fran-
Corp Staff Officer Incharge of Training • President/ chisee in the Filipino Community • Board Mem-
EDMUNDO (Ed) BIRONDO Chairman of the Board, First Filipino Association JUANITA ABALOS-REJDIK ber, Filipino Centre, Toronto • Committee Chair,
of Vaughan • Chairman of the Board/Adviser, Fili- Pistahan 2004-2005 • Committee Chair, Filipino
pino Canadian Association of Vaughan • Board Singing Idol, 2006 • Member, Cookbook Commit-
• B. S. in Industrial Eng’g, Member, Filipino Centre, Toronto;, Chairman, tee
• BSE, MLQU, 1979 • Im-
Adamson University; Ass. Membership Committee, Cabbage Town Festival migration Consultant •
in Textile Eng’g, FEATI • Recipient – Serving Brother Award by Governor REY TOLENTINO
Co-Proprietor, S&J Me-
University • Founding General Ramon Hnatyshyn; Outstanding Cana- chanical Inc. • Member,
Board Member, Filipino dian Award First Filipino Canadian of
Centre, Toronto • Presi- • Graduate, Mass Commu-
Vaughan • Co-Founder,
dent, Ang Negrosanon in North America, 2002- nication/ Broadcast Jour-
2006 • President, The Featinian Association of
MA. ANTONINA (Nenette) DE VILLA Tanay Association of Toronto • Proprietor, Jade
nalism, UP • Computer
(Paralegal) Services • Board Member, Filipino
Toronto, 1999-2000 • Exec. Vice President, Asso- Analyst • Member, UPAA,
Centre, Toronto; Chairman, Line Dancing, Asst.
ciacion Negrense, 1998-2000 • Recipient, St. John • Graduate, College of Toronto • Active Volun-
Chair, Cabbagetown Festival
Ambulance Award, 1995; Outstanding Canadian Medicine, UP • Staff Cardi- teer, various projects and
Award, 2000; Volunteerism Award for 10 years, ologist, St. Joseph Health activities of the Filipino Community in Toronto
2001 • Retired Admin Coord, Toronto Police Ser- MARY ANN SAN JUAN since 1979 • Journalist and Broadcaster
Centre • Head, Division of
vice, Public Information, January 1, 2006; Life- Cardiology • Asst. Profes-
time Member of Toronto Police Association sor, Faculty of Medicine, IRENE TURNER
• Masters in Library Sci-
University of Toronto • Member, UPAA Toronto • ence, Faculty of Informa-
LAPULAPU (Popoy) CAÑA Member, FilCanadian Medical Association • Board tion Study, U of T • BSc • B.S. in Nursing, San Juan
Member, Filipino Centre, Toronto; Chair, Corpo- in Foreign Service, U.P.; De Dios Hospital, Manila,
rate Sponsorship; Adviser, Dr. G. de Villa, Jr. Me- Finished Academic cours-
• Graduate, Bachelor of Phil. • Registered Nurse,
morial Cup Golf Tournament es in Masters in Library
Science in Industrial Edu- St. Mary’s Hospital, Roch-
cation • Married to Ligaya Science, U.P. • Manager, Toronto Public Library ester, Minnesota • Medical
AIDA D’ORAZIO • Founding Member, Folklorico Filipino Canada
with 3 children, Lilac, Staff, Mayo Hospital, Minn.
Jove & Francis • Broker & • Member, Pleasant View Community Centre • Registered Nurse, Grace Hospital, Scarborough
Owner, Maple Insurance Assn.; Bukas Loob sa Diyos (BLD); Children’s • Past President, Filipino Nurses Association of
• Lit. B in Journalism, Liturgy, St. Timothy’s Catholic Church; UPAA; Ha-
Agency • Active Volunteer, Filipino Seminarian So- Ontario • Board Member, Filipino Centre, Toronto
UST; BSE, Pilar College, rana Group • Dragon Boat Paddler, Team Canada
ciety in Canada • Member, Knights of Columbus • • Committee Chair, Christmas Events & Foods •
Zamboanga; Dip. Ed. Me- Grand Masters Team for the World Tournament in
Former Knights of Rizal Regional Commander for Co Chair, Comprehensive Health & Wellness Pro-
dia; Dip. Ed Technology Berlin, Aug. 2005 • Board Member, Filipino Centre,
Canada • Active Volunter, FCT gram • Member, Cookbook Committee
McGill University, Mon- Toronto; Chair, Homework Club
treal • Retired Teacher,
JULITA (Julie) CORPUZ Commission Scolaire Jerome Le-Royer, Montreal MASELLE GAERLAN VIREY
VICTORIA (Vicky) SANTIAGO
• Columnist, Filipino Star & Filipino Forum (cur-
rently), Montreal • President, Zamboanga Hermo-
• BSE, St. Louie Univer- • Doctor of Medicine, Uni-
sa Canada • Board Member, FCT, Publicity Chair,
sity, Baguio • Teacher, • Doctor of Dental Medi- versity of the Philippines
Outstanding Student Awards Co-Chair, Cookbook
Tarlac High School, Fron- cine, U.P. • Maintains a • Diploma in Psychiatry,
Committee Chair, FCT Newsletter Co-Chair • Mem-
tenac & Addington Catho- practice of General Den- University of Ottawa • Fel-
ber, Philippine Press Club-Ontario
lic School Board, Kings- tistry with 8 Associates in low, Royal College of Phy-

TRUTH
ton, Ontario • President, three GTA Dental Offices • sicians and Surgeons of
Ontario Women’s Club, 1990-2003 • Board mem- Member and Supporter of Canada • Diplomate, American Board of Psychia-
ber, FILPAR, Camilenos Assn. of Canada • Mem- several Filipino community organizations in Metro try and Neurology • Diplomate, American Board of
ber, Liberal Assn. of Canada • Founding Board
Member, Filipino Centre, Toronto, Adviser, FCT SHALL Toronto as well as Professional Dental Organiza-
tions • Most Outstanding Filipino in Canada, 2000
• UPAA Recognition Awards, 1997 • UPAA Most
Disability Analysts • Courtesy Consultant Psychi-
atrist, Trillium Health Centre • FCT Volunteer since

PREVAIL!
Dazzling 40 group, Office help, FCT • Recipient, 2004 • Vice President, Filipino Canadian Medical
Outstanding Fil. Canadians, 1998; Volunteerism Outstanding Member, 2002 • Outstanding Asian- Association
Award for 20 years; Disable Helping Disabled. Canadian Community Awardee, April 2006 Paid Advertisement
 FOR some members of a budding community
of nearly half a million people living and working in
20 Manila Media Monitor JANUARY 2007

Canada coming from the Philippines -- a southeast Asian YEAREND EDITORIAL

2006
archipelago composed of over 7,000 islands and speaking
107 languages, the year 2006 was plain time gone which
significance mattered only by the cash and the status it
could have brought them. Who cared, anyway?
But for many, the year was a diamond mine.

When the community

It was a year that saw the resilience of a growing
Filipino community - the patient hardworking hands that
labor in factories and the skilled professionals, the retail
proprietors and big-ticket entrepreneurs, the tender, loving,

sailed the 7 C’s

caring live-in caregivers and homemakers, the youth and
the seniors, those who provide social, health, transportation
and other basic services in public and private offices, those
in the media, etc.
It was the year when a
daring community signified
its strength as a social and
political force to reckon
with. Notwithstanding
the odds, the community
also stood up for what
multiculturalism and ‘unity
in diversity’ really meant.
It was a year that gave CAGADOC
glitter to the community’s ready to stand his ground
wide array of gifted and take on any enemy;
members, many of whom but as diplomatically and
volunteered their voices peacefully as he can.
and terpsichorean talents, In April, 2006, seven-
their love for the arts and year old Montreal grade
their theatrical expertise to schooler Luc Cagadoc made
show all and sundry how front page story after he was
rich Philippine culture and repeatedly humiliated by his
heritage were. school principal, who saw
Beyond the wonderful his traditional way of eating
memories, the community The mudslide disasters in Southern Leyte (above) meals with a spoon and a
learned a lot of painful and in Bicol (below) got the community together to fork as “eating like a pig.”
lessons. But it had remained act as one in accomplishing a noble goal -- that of The news raised not a
resolute in its goal to etch its rebuilding the lives of devastated compatriots. few eyebrows and sparked
indelible mark on Canadian global shock waves. Amid
social, economic, political the coal-hot outrage that
and cultural milieu. could turn a fat pig into
Admittedly still in luscious lechon, a local
need for a captain, the schoolboard downplayed
ship that is the Filipino the issue. Howls of protests
community in Canada had grew louder and echoed
definitely sailed past rough worldwide. Rumors later
and turbulent seas on its said the ‘honorable educator’
way to port. Here is why: Normand Bergeron was
sacked, presumably deemed
C HARITY. For
once, the community transcended parochialism and regional Call it charity, the greatest of all virtues.
unfit for the job.
Early 2006, the community felt maligned when Toronto
biases, set aside socio-cultural differences and downplayed In the absence of disaster, the community’s kindness police never bothered to rip off ‘Wanted’ notices they posted
economic disparities. and philanthropism had never waned, but more substantiated on walls, posts, glass panes and other conspicuous spots on
In the face of tragic events in the homeland, its in the year. Civic, religious, business and regional groups shops and houses lining the Danforth-Pape perimeter.
concerned members displayed the spirit of bayanihan and associations never reneged on pledges to contribute - The posters, on view since December of 2005, warned
and showed bigness of heart in a big push to hastily raise in their own little but special ways - to ease the burden of people of a sex maniac described as a ‘Filipino male,
cash and amass relief goods for tens of thousands, perhaps poor Filipinos. possibly in his 20s, about 5’6” with dark hair.’
millions, of their kababayan badly devastated by a string of 2006 saw a surge of positive responses to appeals for Police and ‘mainstream’ media later tried to tone down
natural calamities that battered the Philippines. donations to build new homes, nay villages, and provide a the suspect’s image as ‘possibly Filipino or Hispanic,’ but
Most notable were the Feb. 17 mudslides that buried the comprehensive social package for those in erstwhile slum to no avail as deeply-hurt community members lashed at
village of Guinsaugon, in St. Bernard town, Southern Leyte and depressed areas in the Philippines. authorities for being irresponsible and ‘reeking of racial
and the Dec. 2 mudslides around the slopes of Mt. Mayon But more than just providing a roof over the heads trash,’ demanding that the palpably malicious branding be
that likewise erased villages from the map of Bicol. of the less fortunate and the homeless, associations also corrected. Even the Philippine consulate in Toronto reacted,
Alas! The year had to begin and end with tragedy. But offered the gift of learning. saying it was “inappropriate.”
tragedy did get the community to act in accomplishing a Aggregately, the number of poor but deserving Filipino Stories of racism and discrimination in schools,
single noble goal -- share themselves and whatever excess youth given academic scholarships rose during the year. playgrounds, parks. the subway and bus stations, groceries
resources they had to get their compatriots in dire need back So did the number of schoolbuildings erected, the and elsewhere abound, aired and heard in the grapevine,
to their feet. quantity and quality of books and other literature shipped, particularly those committed by longtimers against their
Never was it a matter of who and how much. The credits and other educational improvements facilitated. newly-arrived kababayan. These tales of rudeness are
- news and images, announcements, etc. - were simply for There were other programs thought of and carried out, disgusting. But they would have to end somehow, and only
posterity; nothing more, nothing less. What mattered most far from the prying eyes, extended ears and gossip-bearing people, events and time would tell how.
was that on record, the many nameless, faceless members lips of the maddening crowd and a nosy media. In silence, If there was any consolation to victims of racial slur,
of the Canadian community possessed the essence of not a few people worked to assure better lives for Filipinos discrimination and profiling, perhaps this was the number
Godliness, Filipinism and love for their fellowman. in the Philippines, in Canada or elsewhere in the world. of reforms the Toronto police might have adopted from a

C
five-man jury’s recommendations following the end of last
ALL FOR year’s May 8 to mid-October, 2006 inquest into the May
RESPECT. The Filipino 21, 2004 shooting and subsequent death of 17-year old
may be passive and Jeffrey Reodica.
complacent at times, prone The jury recommendations never found fault with
to forgiving petty instances anyone, not even police detective Dan Belanger, who shot
of disrespect as he goes on Reodica three times at the back, and his partner detective
with his jolly disposition Love Allen. But the inquest jury pointblankly assigned
while living in a social measures that the police could use to deter a similar incident
melting pot that Canada from happening.
boasts of as its greatest Those still grieving and crying for justice for the loss
achievement as a nation. of the teener averred that the inquest had been an exercise
But when his cultural in futility, which the other side of the fence negated. The
sensitivities are touched, last piece of news from the Reodica family’s lawyer noted
the Filipino emotes the they would file a criminal suit against the police officers.
PCCT-GK Village soon to rise in Sucat, Parañaque ferocity of a wounded lion, (Next page, please)
JANUARY 2007 Manila Media Monitor 21 So did other community centers! And this should be
cause for joy and celebration for members of the community,
Even before the Reodica inquest no matter where they were located.
took place, another 17-year old, Daniel The Kalayaan Cultural Community Centre greeted
Celestino, lost his dear life, a victim of 2006 with a big bang. Ching Quejas and other firm believers
a despicable criminal who stabbed him of community service formally opened the center’s new
at the back while he was taking a ‘leak’ 7,200 square-foot Mississauga facility, a million-dollar
in a washroom of a coffee shop on building for a budding community.
Wilson and Keele streets on April 20. 2006 also saw the Silayan Community Centre
His assailant had long been arrested recuperating from minor internal bickerings to emerge
and was said to be serving time in jail. REODICA as strong as ever, just like the seniors it helped get out of
Celestino’s death might not have been a direct case of boredom through art classes -- and later mounting an art
racism, but there was belief that his killer could have been exhibit -- in cooperation with Filipino artists in Toronto.
a recipient of social prejudice which could have motivated Then there was Kababayan- which not only provided
him to get even with society. It was truly unfortunate that the usual services, but went farther to give its youth
he bent his ire on Celestino. members a special theatrical treat, that of being topbilled
Young lives with what could have in a March, 2006 play “Mind The Gap” directed by writer
been very bright futures were snuffed Ricky Caluen.
out. Their memories could only call on Promoting sports, apart from aerobics, was the
community vigilance and pro-activeness SIGN OF THE TIMES 2006 focus of the Gateway Centre for New Canadians in
in the fight to end all forms of racism, Mississauga, as it introduced lessons on Olympic-style
including that coming from their own in the polls, but most had no charisma with the numbers. boxing and taekwando, games in which Filipinos excel.
kind. Only three - Marlene Mogado of Markham Area 2, Luz del The community centers and the volunteers running
CELESTINO Rosario of Dufferin-Peel Wards 6 and 11 and Alex Chiu of them had made 2006 very productive for members who

C Markham Ward 8 - made it to the winner’s circle. availed themselves of its programs - those who mastered
AREGIVERS. It was disappointing to read that Then there were the Jan. 23, 2006 federal elections. line dances, did aerobics and tai chi, or who simply sat on
a Philippine government salvaging a deteriorating image Of course, the community could rejoice with the and enjoyed listening to juicy gossips and exhilirating tales
by embarking on a costly Lebanon Overseas Filipino accomplishments of new Prime Minister Stephen Harper of yesteryears; those who became proficient in operating
Workers (OFW) evacuation could not even spare a penny and his Cabinet; or computers, enjoyed Web surfing, or wondered why he was
to bring home the remains of Overseas Workers Welfare drown in his failures no longer afraid of handling a mouse; those who learned
Administration-registered caregiver Marilou Tabuno, to fulfill promises that the Filipino language, Math and other school subjects;
whose body had to rest in the cold confines of a funeral could have done good those who horsed around in fun and camaraderie; those
parlor morgue for about two months since a road accident for the community. who partook of delicacies in potluck parties; and those who
that killed her in North York on May 24, 2006. The same could be moved back and observed what a wonderful and amazing
Though administratively and financially constrained, expected with David congregation the community could be if it acted in unison.
the Philippine Consul General’s Office and its labor officer Miller reelected as Also a cause for celebration in 2006 was the
ably negotiated Marilou’s release from the morgue and got HARPER MILLER Toronto mayor. community’s freewheeling involvement -- more pompous
her body on its way home to be given last respects. That a huge population in Toronto could elect a member but less expensive -- in various Canadian and Philippine
Putting aside that government’s ineptness to respond to wield political influence had remained a myth. The spectre festivities showcasing authentic Filipino culture in art,
to the special needs of a dead OFW, it was the news of of Philippine politics, dirty as it was deadly, continued to songs, dances, ethnic fashion and cuisine.
Filipino caregivers dying in Ontario that caught the eye of haunt many T h e
the community. who shied Philippine
THE COMMUNITY FLOCKS TO PIDC EVENTS Indepen-
Shattered dreams. So they were too for Mary Grace away from
Sioco and for Piat, Cagayan native Mirasol Mariano who C a n a d i a n dence Day
drowned while trying to save her two-year old ward in a polls. The Council
Richmond Hill home mid-June. penchant to (PIDC), in
Meanwhile, caregiver Sharon Asuncion was cleared in belong only cooperation
August 2006 of any felony by a Newmarket judge, after a to a clan or with the
gruelling court battle on child abuse charges. Sharon has a regional Philippine
since found a better employer. grouping has Chamber of
The memories left by Tabuno, Sioco and Mariano were resulted in the community interspersing and dividing itself Commerce-Toronto mounted what could be the biggest
those of loving, tender and hardworking Filipino caregivers into smaller patches of political insignificance. What most entertainment and trade show in 2006. Except for a few
committed to give the best of who they were so that others candidates forgot to factor in was the fact that most people blurbs due to an accidental ‘wardrobe malfunction’ courtesy
could go on nurturing the beauty of life; and of the day-to- were in a state that they would rather earn their keep than of one of its lady performers, the community adjudged the
day unwavering heroism of caregivers. exercise their right to suffrage on a working day. PIDC Mabuhay Philippines-Toronto Summer Festival on
Asuncion’s travails, on the other hand, confirmed If these are not what one could say as shaping the July 29, 2006 a big success. The community regarded the
the existence of many a caregiver’s tales of woe; making community’s future in Canada, what then? festival as one socio-cultural event worth going to and

C
everyone mindful of the sometimes sad experiences seeing over the years.
caregivers get from abusive employers, a situation needing ONTROVERSY. Is bad politics really giving In deference to their proclamation of loyalty to
reversal by a united the vulture a bad name? their adoptive country Canada, Filipinos also celebrated
community brave enough to Signs that the vulture has the historical birth of the Philippines, by virtue of a
peaceably assemble, invoke begun to transform into proclamation of independence from American rule by Gen.
street parliamentarism, the mirror image of self- Emilio Aguinaldo in Kawit, Cavite on June 12, 1898. As in
march and tell politicians proclaimed saviors whose earlier years, the celebration of Philippine Independence in
to amend, if not junk, an ego boosting and personal 2006 was conducted in different dates, not necessarily on
antiquated Canadian Live- interests far outweigh those June 12, in various locations but by a bigger mix of groups,
In Caregiver Program (LCP) of committed volunteers heralding the rejuvenation of Philippine nationalism in the
that has curtailed basic and the general public are hearts and minds of more community members.
human rights and has placed slowly eroding the walls of Celebration. That was also the theme of many of the
women-caregivers into the a once-revered community community’s bevy of entertainment artists. Representing
quagmire of modern-day center. every known musical genre, they showed everyone that
slavery, at least for three or NO. 1. Caregiving is no game. It is a vocation. One just had to read Filipinos love music and music loves Filipinos. In many
so years. between the lines of news instances, this love for music was offered freely in concerts,
Many individuals and reports on the over a year- shows and fundraisers with noble causes.
human rights groups have old controversy brewing in In sports, the community had its first taste of
persistently tried, more the Filipino Centre Toronto representation in Canada’s national game when the Filipino
actively in 2006, to get better to discern truth from lies, Fury took on ice and faced seasoned hockey teams from
treatment for caregivers and concrete gains from black other cultural groups in the 2nd Canadian Multicultural
OFWs in Canada, but were propaganda, builders from Hockey League (CMHL) from Dec. 27 to 30, 2006. In a
either given mere political destroyers, sacrifice from letter to rink sponsor Canadian Ethnic Media Association,
lip service or, worse, that greed. Avoidable and unne- CMHL founder Stan Papulkas cited Manila Media Monitor
what-do-we-care it’s-the- cessary, the noisy and costly for its article that enabled the league to form a hockey team
least-of-our-priorities brush FCT ruckus would go down composed of Filipinos, a rare feat considering that Filipinos
aside. in 2006 as an isolated but are known for excelling in basketball.

C HOICES. The
infamous incident fit to
be relegated to history’s C HAMPION. The community weathered every
choice to become a political forget-about-it and don’t- storm that passed its way.
force to deal with knocked on the community’s door during even-think-about-it trash bins. The community sailed through rough and high seas,
triumphant in its entry to a new year.
the Nov. 13, 2006 municipal elections. Yet, it seemed that
many voters never bothered to exploit the potential of their C ELEBRATION. So why sulk over one atypical Ever strong, daring, patient, resilient, hardworking,
ballots to send more members of the community to the incident? FCT is not at all lost, hearing that it has not ebbed and resolute in making real and meaningful its individual
meeting tables of schoolboards or legislative halls. in the delivery of various services for the community, and collective goals, the community has stood its ground.
At least 13 persons (there could be more) tried their luck controversy or no controversy. In 2006, the community was the champion!
22 Manila Media Monitor JANUARY 2007
Toronto youth projects get $3.5M Manila Media Monitor
23 JANUARY 2007
Toronto’s Youth Challenge Fund (YCF) YCF chair Michael Clemons cited the
has alloted an initial $3.5 million to support people involved in the youth initiative, say-
youth-based projects handled by 19 orga- ing they “engage in a labor of love persis-
nizations working in the city’s 13 priority tently petitioning for the empowerment of
neighborhoods. youth across our country. Many are youth
YCF officials said $1.5 million in pri- themselves.”
vate donations has been received, including YCF was established early last year
$1 million from John Hunkin and Susan to directly respond to growing concerns
Crocker, $250,000 from TD Bank Finan- on youth violence and gang involvement
cial Group, $81,500 from Foresters, and across Toronto.
$150,000 from other donors. YCF is active in Jamestown, Jane-
Ontario has made available some $8 Finch, Weston-Mount Dennis, Lawrence
million in matching funds for 2007 and $7 Heights, Westminster-Branson, Crescent
million in 2008. Town, Flemingdon Park-Victoria Village,
United Way of Greater Toronto is the Steeles-l’Amoreaux, Dorset Park, Eglinton
Fund’s trustee, providing administrative East-Kennedy Park, Scarborough Village,
and fund development support. Kingston-Galloway, and Malvern. PR

SCHOLARSHIPS. Ateneo Alumni Association Canada (AAAC) members kick off their scholar-
ship fundraisers with the annual Winterlude affair at the Garnet Williams Community Centre in
Thornhill on Jan. 6. The AAAC, which has 15 scholars todate, has planned a golf tournament in
June, the Scholarship Dinner Dance on Sept. 30 and other smaller fundraisers and get-togeth-
ers such as the Kapihan for Ateneo alumni on Jan. 27 at the Golden Valley Banquet Hall. PR
24 News Manila Media Monitor
JANUARY 2007

Jobs safe in family med leaves

The Ontario Family Medical that the family member has a spouse.
Leave has assured job protection serious medical condition with a The list has expanded
for employees caring for “gravely significant risk of death within 26 to siblings; grandparents,
ill loved ones.” weeks. grandchildren; certain in-laws;
Labor Minister Steve Peters Employees taking leave under aunts, uncles; nieces, nephews;
said the program has given the broad category of “like a certain step-relations; and a
employees up to eight weeks of family member” would fill up a person considered to be like a
job-protected, unpaid leave to federal attestation form. family member.
care for very sick family members The eligible family members The Family Medical Leave
or a person considered to be like a for whom an employee could dovetailed with the federal
family member. take the leave included the government’s Compassionate
But the employee would have employee’s spouse (including Care Benefits that permitted
to submit a medical certificate same-sex spouse); a parent, step- workers in similar situations to MRS. PANGASINAN 2006 & FELLOW PANGASINENSES.
issued by a qualified health parent or foster parent; a child, apply for Employment Insurance Mrs. Angelina Tawatao (2nd from right), the reigning Mrs.
practitioner. step-child or foster child of the benefits while away from work. Pangasinan 2006 in Toronto, Ontario, poses with husband,
The certificate should state employee or the employee’s PR Har Tawatao, (right), Ben Arcalas and Amy Arcalas. JT

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Cheers to a Healthy, Happy & Peaceful New Year!

Manila Media Monitor
JANUARY 2007 The Philippines 25

US embassy gets custody of marine-rapist

MANILA - The US embassy here on fect the substantive issues at bar, nor impede

US-RP war games resume

Dec. 29 got custody of convicted rapist justice and the rule of law.”
American marine Lance Corporal Daniel Arroyo said the Executive Branch “is
Smith on orders of the government. prepared to meet all legal challenges to the
In Malacañang, President Gloria Maca- government action on the Smith case, and MANILA - United States Embassy spokesman Matthew Lussenhop on Jan. 2
pagal-Arroyo said on Jan. 2 that Smith was we are confident that its legitimacy and wis- announced that the Balikatan joint military exercise between American and Filipino
transferred to the embassy’s custody to avert dom will be upheld.” soldiers would resume. Lussenhop made the confirmation after the Philippine govern-
the further erosion of Philippine strategic re- Embassy spokesman Matthew Lussen- ment turned over convicted rapist Lance Corporal Daniel Smith to the custody of the
lations with the US over non-compliance by hop said the Philippine government decided US Embassy, saying the tuirnover made both parties “in compliance with the Visiting
the government of its treaty obligation under to transfer (Smith) back to US custody, con- Forces Agreement.” Philippine officials confirmed the resumption of the war games.
the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA). sistent with VFA terms. Days before Christmas, the US government cancelled the war games with the Philip-
But the President said Smith’s transfer to But Makati Regional Trial Court Judge pines due to the continued detention of a US Marine convicted of rape. PNA
the custody of US authorities “will not af- (Continued on page 26)

Flashfloods hit Mindanao

BUTUAN CITY - At least 22,703 families or 96,965 persons have
sought higher grounds as flashfloods, triggered by swollen rivers follow-
ing continuous torrential rains since Jan. 2, submerged as many as 75 vil-
lages in about 15 towns in the Caraga region in northern Mindanao.
The Philippines News Agency on Jan. 11 reported that two persons
drowned during the onrush and continued rise of waters, which also af-
fected millions of pesos worth of property, crops, livestock and other ag-
ricultural assets.
In Agusan del Sur, waters have reportedly replaced the landscape in
the towns of Prosperidad, Sta. Josefa, San Francisco, Loreto, Veruela, Es-
peranza, Bunawan and Talacogon. In Surigao del Sur, flashfloods swept
villages near rivers in the towns of Tago and San Miguel. Similar flooding
was reported in 19 villages in Butuan City’s eastern side, barangay Ama-

Bulusan Volcano’s ash covers 11 villages

maylan being hardest hit.
Landslides have also hit Agusan del Norte, particularly in barangays
Marcos Calo, Mandamo and Dankias of Las Nievas town. A swollen Agu-
Sorsogon’s erstwhile quiet Bulusan Volcano rumbled anew, recently spewed a blanket of san River also spilled water over Las Nieves and RTR town.
ash over 11 villages and triggered minor tremors. While scientists say the activity shows Meanwhile, calls for relief and rehabilitation aid were also made for
volcanic restiveness, there are no signs of any forthcoming major eruption. The ash fall victims of floods in Davao del Norte and Davao del Sur.
deposits are observed in barangays Monbon, Buenavista, Salvacion, Casini, Liyang, Patag, Continuous rains since News Year’s eve have affected over 400 fami-
Sto. Domingo, Tulay, and Poblacion, all in the town of Irosin; and in Trece and Gate of Bulan, lies in Kapalong, Asuncion, Tagum City and Carmen, all in Davao del
Sorsogon. PNA Norte; and in Malita and Sta. Maria, both in Davao del Sur.

370 Rexdale Boulevard, Rexdale On. M9W 1R6

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Tel: (416) 745-7060 ANTONIO TECSON

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US embassy ...
(From page 25)
The Philippines Manila Media Monitor
26
JANUARY 2007

Benjamin Pozon, who handled

Smith’s case, refused to hand him
over to US custody.
Pozon insisted that a provision
RP to import rice amid ‘better harvests’
in the bilateral VFA said “any ac-
cused American serviceman shall No political gimmick - Ermita
remain in US custody until all judi-
cial proceedings are exhausted.” MANILA - The Philippine Iran and the Philippines would re-
Pozon said the provision applied government is set to import some duce rice importation in 2007 as
only during “the judicial proceed- one million metric tons of rice for paddy production are expected to
ings in the trial court.” It expired its “Food for School” program. be better.
upon a defendant’s conviction, re- Under the program, grade Rice scientists and program
gardless of a pending appeal. school pupils are each given planners of the Philippine Rice
one kilo of iron-fortified rice per Research Institute also decried
On Dec. 18, the Court of Ap-
school attendance, aiming to mo- the government’s huge budget for
peals (CA) denied Smith’s Dec. 14
tivate them attend school and ad- rice importation but very minimal
request of a temporary restraining
dress malnutrition. funding for rice production.
order on his detention at the jail.
But under serious scrutiny is They said the National Food
On Jan. 4, Malacañang said the CA
the P4.7 billion the government Authority has made available
upheld the transfer.
set aside for the 2007 school feed- some P29 billion for rice impor-
Pozon sentenced Smith to 40
ing program. tation in 2006 but only P1 billion
years in prison for the rape of 22-
Agriculture Secretary Arthur for rice production.
year old Nicole (not her real name)
Yap confirmed the importation. “Looking at these figures
on Nov. 1, 2005, his first day of
Senator Edgardo Angara, how- makes one very sick. We have
rest and recreation after military
ever, noted that rice alone would that much money for importation
exercises in Central Luzon.
not ease malnutrition problems but just a pittance for rice produc-
On Jan. 4, Presidential Spokes- and the importation would only tion,” they said.
man Ignacio Bunye said “the US serve administration-favored im- Meanwhile, Executive Sec-
and the Philippine governments porters. retary Eduardo Ermita defended
have learned good lessons from this Angara said the importation the proposed P4.7-billion school
case.” was an insult to Filipino farmers, feeding program as a legitimate
“The government is also re- who deserved the money as rice initiative intended to address the
solved to review the VFA and, if production support. problem of malnutrition among
warranted, to work with Congress The Department of Agricul- schoolchildren of the country’s
to amend certain provisions there- ture, in a recent report, said it ex- poorest of the poor, many of
of,” he said. pected domestic rice production whom dropped out of school due
Earlier, Executive Secretary to go up to 15.2 million metric to poverty and health concerns.
Eduardo Ermita called on the tons in 2006, or four percent high- Politics had nothing to do with
Cabinet and Congress to review er than the 14.6 MMT produced the project, Ermita said.
the provision on “extraordinary DO WE REALLY HAVE ENOUGH RICE? The question remains in 2005, despite damages to rice “The program is among the
circumstances” among others in in the minds of Filipinos who used to see the Philippines farms caused by super typhoons. various pro-poor projects of Presi-
the VFA, in order to avoid similar as a rice exporter. Above, President Gloria Macapagal-Ar- In another report, the Food dent Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ...
controversies in the future. PNA/ royo talks to a store owner in Barangay 637, Zone 65 in San and Agriculture Organization said not a political gimmick,” he said.
Wires Miguel, Manila who sells National Food Authority rice. OPS Asian countries like Bangladesh, Wires
JANUARY 2007 Manila Media Monitor 27
Manila Media Monitor
JANUARY 2007
28 The Philippines Provincial Roundup
GSIS uses ecards for pensions
January in Iloilo City CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -
The Government Service Insurance
System (GSIS) has started, since Jan.

Hala Bira! 1, crediting the monthly pensions for

old-age pensioners to the latter’s GSIS
eCard account. This meant that pen-
Iloilo City’s Dinagyang had its beginnings in 1968 when Fr. Sulpicio Ebderes, OSA brought a replica of the sioners should use their GSIS eCard to
image of the Señor Santo Niño from Cebu City to the San Jose Parish church where it has been enshrined withdraw pension in any Automated
since. A novena in His honor is held every Friday. The first parish feast of Señor Santo Niño was celebrated Tellering Machine (ATM) nationwide,
in 1969. The culmination of the nine-day novena is a fluvial proces- GSIS president and general manager
sion. From 1969, the cel- Winston Garcia said. GSIS would stop using checks to deliver pen-
ebration was casually sions. Garcia urged pensioners without eCards to enroll themselves
called “Iloilo Ati-Atihan” at the GSIS home office or the nearest GSIS servicing office to
to differentiate it from the avoid suspension of their pension payments. PIA
Mardi Gras-like revelry of
Kalibo, Aklan. Through
the years, Iloilo’s Dinag-
Zambales sun-run water supply
yang festival evolved into MASINLOC, Zambales - A P4.5-million solar-powered water
a time of the year every- supply facility will soon be installed in barangay San Salvador here.
one looks forweard to as The facility will improve sanitation and regulate pollution vital in
it has become a period of the preservation of marine life. San Salvador has coral reefs that
thanksgiving and offer- serve as spawning and nursery areas for various fishery species. The
ing for all the blessings reefs also protect the coastline from erosion by wave action. PIA
the people have received,
thanks to the Señor Santo Aklan to expand abaca output
Niño. This year, the festi-
KALIBO, Aklan - Officials here have set their sights on ex-
val will feature an inter-
panding abaca production in the province, making up for losses in
national Holiday On Ice
show. the aftermath of recent supertyphoons that hit the country’s leading
Hala Bira! Hala Bira! abaca sources like Bicol. Officials said the area planted to abaca
would be raised from 1,500 to 3,355 hectares in the towns of Alta-
vas, Balete, Banga, Ibajay, Madalag, Makato, Malinao, and Liba-

RP, Afghanistan 2nd to Iraq in cao. The Philippines used to cover 90 percent of global demand for
abaca fiber, but could not meet demand because of dipping yields
and dwindling land area devoted to cultivating the plant. PIA

journalists’ death toll - CPJ Isabela town goes high-tech

JONES, Isabela - This sec-
NEW YORK - The Philippines and Afghanistan ists,” the report stated.
ond class town lying on the
ranked side by side second to Iraq in the infamous list “This year’s killings bring to 92 the number of
Northern Sierra Madre mountain
of nations with the highest death toll of journalists. journalists who have died in Iraq since the U.S.-led
ranges has gone high-technology.
invasion of March 2003.
Mayor Florante Raspado said the
Radio reporter Andy Acosta was stabbed and In addition, 37 media support workers-interpret-
on-line connection of the town
killed while on his way home from a press club ers, drivers, fixers, and office workers-have been
has greatly helped not only the lo-
party in Batac, Ilocos Norte on Dec. 20. Acosta, 46, killed since the war began.
cal government but also students
was a police beat reporter of radio station DZJC CPJ also revealed that murder was the leading
who have saved time and money to travel to nearby Santiago City
based in Laoag City. He was the fourth mediaper- cause of journalist deaths in 2006, accounting for
to avail of internet services. PIA
son killed in the Philippines in 2006. PNA about 85 percent of cases.
“Among those slain was Russian Anna Politkovs-
With three journalists killed apiece, the Philip- kaya, a leading investigative journalist and critic of Cag. de Oro school gets books
pines and Afghanistan, however, were a far cry from President Vladimir Putin,” the report stated. “She was TORONTO - Pupils of a grade school in Cagayan de Oro City
the 32 -- 28 of them murdered -- killed in Iraq. shot, contract-style, in her Moscow apartment build- were just too glad to get new and pre-loved books, activity sets, art
Russia, Mexico, Pakistan, and Colombia each had ing on October 7,” CPJ Executive Director Joel Si- materials and school supplies, courtesy of Ricky Caluen, Cynthia
two journalists killed. mon said. Aliño-Perez and Glen Perez and Nobella Tumbokon, all of the Al-
At least 55 journalists died around the world in “When an internationally renowned reporter can pha Phi Omega (APO) Southern Ontario Alumni Association. The
2006 doing their jobs, an increase from 47 in 2005, be gunned down in her own apartment building and donations were sent to the school after school officials intimated the
according to the Committee to Protect Journalists the perpetrators walk away free, it has a devastating plight of their bookless library. PR
(CPJ) in a report released on Dec. 20. effect on the press. Fewer tough questions are asked,
The Iraq figures made the country’s death toll for fewer risky stories are covered,” Simon said. N. Vizcaya-Baguio road opens
journalists the highest ever for a single country in one “Her case shows why impunity is such a serious ARITAO, Nueva Vizcaya - The P858.8-million Aritao-Kayapa-
year since CPJ began keeping track in 1981. threat to press freedom, not only in Russia but in na- Pangawan Road that would link Aritao, Nueva Vizcaya to Baguio
For the fourth consecutive year, Iraq was in a cat- tions such as the Philippines, Colombia, Mexico, and City formally opened to traffic on Jan. 2. The road would provide an
egory all its own as the deadliest place for journal- Pakistan.” alternative route to the provinces of Isabela, Quirino and Nueva Viz-
caya in the east and the provinces of Benguet, La Union and Ilocos

Philippines leads 61st UNGA Sur in the west. Another road project, the Ambuklao-Kayapa road, is
expected to be finished in October. PNA

twice -- in acting capacity NegOcc geothermal plant up

KANLAON,
NEW YORK - The Philippines ended 2006 by rized to sign correspondence, represent the UNGA in Negros Occiden-
taking over as acting president of the 61st United Na- meetings of other UN organs, receive callers and as- tal - A 50-megawatt
tions General Assembly (UNGA) anew. sume other functions. geothermal plant
The Philippine Mission to the UN said General The designation of Baja as acting president was here will soon start
Assembly President Haya Rashed Al-Khalifa of Bah- different from the occasions when he presided over operations. The over
rain has requested Ambassador Lauro Baja, Philip- UNGA meetings as vice president. $2-million project,
pine Permanent Representative to the UN, to again The Philippines first presided on Sept. 13, when undertaken by the
assume his functions from December 24 to 31, 2006. Baja was asked, as vice president, to chair the High Philippine National
The designation made the Philippines the first Level Dialogue of the 61st UNGA on the agenda item Oil Corporation, is
vice president of the 61st UNGA to be asked to serve Migration and Development. seen as a big boost
as acting president twice. A week later, the Philippines was given another GEOTHERMAL PLANT IN MINDANAO
to the economy of
UNGA President Al-Khalifa first designated Am- opportunity when Department of Foreign Affairs Western Visayas as it will address the power deficit problem in the
bassador Baja as acting president of the General As- Secretary Alberto Romulo was requested to chair the region, especially Panay Island. This will issue the signal that the
sembly on Oct. 19. general debate of the 61st UNGA, also in the coun- region is ready to cater to new and big investments. PNA
As acting president, Ambassador Baja was autho- try’s capacity as vice president. PNA
29 Manila Media Monitor JANUARY 2007
Canadian aid for disaster victims UST-EHS group calls on Fil-Can
alumni support for revitalization
MANILA - University of Santo Tomas - Education High School Alumni Association
(UST-EHS AA) interim president Eduardo Nepomuceno (Batch `69) has called on co-
alumni in Canada and elsewhere in North America to step up and solidify support for the
rebirth and revitalization of the association, which had become dormant in recent years.
Nepomuceno said the active participation of alumni members abroad would greatly
complement the initiatives of co-alumni in the Philippines.
Nepomuceno’s call came after the election of an interim set of officers in a reorganiza-
tion meeting at the UST-EHS Principal’s Office, UST Education building on Nov. 18.
Elected with Nepomuceno were external vice president Reynaldo Ligueran, `76; inter-
nal vice president Louie Cirilo, `89; secretaries Ritchie Parenas, `96 and Ria Rose Sorita-
Buluran, `94; treasurer Anita Edralin-Florentino, `70; and press and public relations of-
ficers Eduardo Umali, `71 and Leticia Abad-Durens, `75.
Committee heads elected were Armando Tolentino, `71 and Allan Hinayo, ‘88 for re-
cruitment and membership; Jesus Nartates, `69 and Ernie Lazaro, ‘76 for ways and means;
Edilberto Florentino, `70; Umali and Durens for programs and events.

LOANS AND MORTGAGES

► Line of Credit
► Personal and Business Loans
► Best Rate Mortgage with No Commission
Canadian Ambassador in Manila Peter Sutherland turns over a sack of seed-
► Mortgage for Bad Credit/Bankruptcy
lings to Emilio Punio, barangay captain of Guinsaugon, St.Bernard, South-
ern Leyte, as a symbol of Canada’s assistance to the village hardest hit ► Self-Employed
by mudslides in February last year. Sutherland visited Southern Leyte to ► New Immigrant ► No Income
see the projects that got aid from the Canadian International Development ► O% down, 7% Cash-Back Mortgages
Agency through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives. The Leyte Center for ► Re-financing
Development and the Citizens Disaster Response Center are two organiza- ► Debt Consolidation
MARY-ANN SOBERANO
tions implementing one of the projects that directly benefit the survivors of
Guinsaugon. Canada Fund gave P2.5 million for economic assistance and Tel No.: (647) 430-3680 Cell: (416) 825-9803
disaster response training to the affected areas in St. Bernard. More than
600 families in six affected barangays have been given seeds, farm tools,
and farm animals such as goats and ducks, as livelihood assistance. The
grant was also used to for capacity-building activities that trained commu-
LIVE-IN CAREGIVERS WANTED
nity leaders in disaster preparedness and mitigation. The Canadian govern-
If you have someone in Hong Kong, Taiwan or Singapore, tell
ment contributed more than P13 million for relief and rehabilitation of the them to forward their resume and photo to 1057 Steeles Ave.
mudslide-affected communities. Recently, the Canadian government has West, PO Box 81721, Toronto ON M2R 3X1 or email to philca-
given some P7 million in the aftermath of Typhoon Milenyo and P45 million [email protected]
for victims of Typhoon Reming. PR
30 The Philippines Manila Media Monitor
JANUARY 2007

Siocon Subanons to invest TVIRD royalty

CANADA-RP
ECONOMIC BI-
LATERAL CON-
payments in livelihood, community projects S U LTAT I O N S .
National Eco-
ZAMBOANGA CITY - The development projects SSAI mem- mine copper and zinc at Canatuan. nomic and De-
Department of Trade and Industry bers have identified. TVI Pacific would invest over $23 velopment Au-
(DTI) and other public and pri- Dimaculangan said SSAI, the million for the project. thority assistant
vate agencies have committed to legal representative of the 1,200- The Canadian mining firm director-gen-
help the Siocon Subanon Associa- strong Certificate of Ancestral hoped to begin production, esti- eral Rolando G.
tion, Inc. (SSAI) in managing the Domain Title holders in Canatuan, mated to reach 1,300 dry metric Tungpalan (left)
royalty payments the association has received royalty paymnets of tonnes per day, in early 2007, of- and Canadian
has been receiving from TVI Re- about P5 million in 2005. ficials added. International
sources Development Philippines, TVIRD officials estimated the TVI Canatuan General Manag- Development
Inc. (TVIRD) in Canatuan, Sio- Subanons would get some P14 er Yulo Perez said TVIRD has been Agency direc-
con, Zamboanga del Norte. million, net of tax, for 2006. processing an average of 1,500 dry tor-general for
TVIRD media officer Rocky Meanwhile, Calgary-based TVI metric tonnes of ore - rocks that Asia Pauline
Dimaculangan said the help fo- Pacific, Inc., TVIRD’s mother firm, contained gold and silver - to pro- Kehoe (right) exchange copies of the aide memoriam to the
cused on planning and carrying announced it had received positive duce roughly P5 million to P6 mil- 9th Annual Bilateral Consultations between the two countries
out livelihood and community results on a feasibility study to lion worth of gold per day. PNA in a recent signing ceremony. PR
JANUARY 2007 Manila Media Monitor 31

Wishing You a New Year of Peace, Prosperity & Happiness!

 Tenorio Manila shoes
hit Toronto market
Business Manila Media Monitor
32 JANUARY 2007
Philippine-made and designed high-quality Tenorio
Manila designer shoes have started making a mark in
Toronto’s footwear arena, through distributor Gemma
Get ready for Asean economic
integration, RP exporters urged
Mendoza Fashion Studio Ltd.
The Philippines’ youngest but foremost shoe de-
signer label, Tenorio Manila has received raves in
Germany’s Dusseldorf Shoe Fair and was finalist in the
Harvard Business School Entrepreneurial Idol’s ”Battle CEBU CITY - Fred western and Asian countries
of the Business Plans.” Escalona, executive offi- would remain costly, invest-
With Tehran-born, Filipino-American Brian Teno- cer of the Confederation of ments in retirement facilities
rio as principal designer, Tenorio Manila has produced Philippine Exporters Foun- would open to more highly
high-end footwear created by its team in the Marikina dation (Philexport) Cebu developed medical facilities
Valley. Inc., urged export industry and quality medical staff in
Tenorio Manila is the only made-to-order custom- players to be “competitive the Philippines.
fit designer label for men and women shoes in the Far and innovative” to meet the Escalona said the coun-
East. PR challenges of the proposed try’s tropical climate would
Association of South East contribute greatly in the

Peso gains vs US, Cdn $ Asian Nations (Asean) eco-

nomic integration.
It would be survival of
growth of medical tourism.
He noted that as young
graduates improved their
The Philippine peso continued its rebound in the first the fittest, “so they should proficiency in the English
two weeks of January to breach the P48 to the US dollar and position themselves as early language, more call centers
$41 to the Canadian dollar levels. The peso drew its strength as now,” Escalona said.
Annual foreign exchange earn- and business process out-
from dollar inflows of overseas Filipino worker remittances He feared Asean eco- ings from the Philippines’ call sourcing companies would
and stepped up investments in the local stock market. But nomic integration would center industry will nearly triple enter the field.
exporters believed the industry would face more difficulties “kill” small businesses. Escalona said ICT and
this year with the peso’s foreign exchange gains, said Al- With calls to move the to $7.3 billion in 2010, up from information technology
lan Suarez Jr., chairman of the Confederation of Philippine economic integration ear- $2.6 billion in 2006. enabled services would be-
Exporters Cebu. Economists said the peso’s appreciation, lier to 2015, Escalona said come a $12-billion industry
which made Philippine products more expensive abroad, industry players should be- roadmap for the creation of While furniture and in the next few years.
will go up to P45 to a dollar. gin finding their own niche an Asean economic commu- electronics are considered “And a growth in these
The peso exchange rate against the dollar: market “as early as now.” nity that names 12 pioneer “highly developed” or ma- sectors will reduce the
US$ Cdn$ The integration is seen sectors for integration. ture sectors, Escalona ex- country’s brain drain prob-
Dec. 29, 2006 49.0681 42.1051 as a chance for Asean mem- The sectors are electron- pected good returns from lem,” he said.
Jan. 02, 2007 48.9280 41.9998 ber-countries to improve ics, information technology, the country’s services sec- Escalona expressed
Jan. 03, 2007 48.8711 41.7711 each other’s capabilities. health care, wood-based tor, particularly medical optimism that with the de-
Jan. 04, 2007 48.8693 41.5535 “It’s better to work to- products, automotives, rub- tourism, information and velopment in the country’s
Jan. 05, 2007 48.8602 41.5633 gether in cooperation rather ber-based products, textiles communication technology services sector, the Philip-
Jan. 08, 2007 48.9109 41.5282 than compete against each and apparel, agro-based (ICT) and other ICT-en- pines would benefit from
Jan. 09, 2007 48.7173 41.3394 other,” he added. products, fisheries, air trav- abled services. the Asean economic inte-
Jan. 10, 2007 48.9705 41.6318 Asean leaders drafted a el, tourism and logistics. While health services in gration. PNA
 Pact assures more Ont.
employment services
Business Manila Media Monitor
JANUARY 2007 33

Ontario’s businessmen and workers are seen to gain from close

to $1 billion in training and employment services through Employ- Filipino women’s economic growth
gets priority in CIDA P315M grant
ment Ontario, a result of the Canada-Ontario Labor Market Devel-
opment Agreement, a CNW Group report said.
Chris Bentley, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities,
said the agreement, effective Jan. 1, transferred many federal train-
ing and employment programs, resources and staff to the province.
Bentley said Employment Ontario has become one-stop shop MANILA - Canada, through
with the transfer, making the system more flexible and effective. the Canadian International De-
The transfer meant Ontarians would get more resources as $525 velopment Agency (CIDA) has
million in transferred yearly federal programming would combine granted the National Commission
with $360 million in Ontario programs; more service as people and on the Role of Filipino Women
businesses served yearly would grow from over 500,000 to 900,000; (NCRFW) over P315 million for
and more locations as the number of third-party service providers projects that would spur women’s
would increase from 470 to 1,200 in all regions of the province. economic empowerment.
Under the agreement, employers would get expanded services to Canadian Ambassador Peter
help them find the workers they needed and to encourage investment Sutherland and National Eco-
in skills development; job-threatened or laid-off workers would ben- nomic and Development Author-
efit from better coordination and availability of services; and em- ity Secretary-General Romulo
ployers, workers, newcomers, and youth would get more flexible Neri have signed a memorandum
programs that support life-long learning to meet changing needs. of understanding and contribu-
tion arrangement spelling out how
Land Bank comes to OFW aid project funds would be managed.
The Gender Responsive Eco-
DAVAO CITY - The Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) would nomic Actions for the Transforma-
offer programs for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) early 2007 for tion of Women (GREAT Women)
them to become entrepreneurs. LBP Davao Region vice president Jo- project started in November and STEREOTYPED. Studies show that gender role stereotypes
selito Guittierez said the initiative would come through loans or other would run until 2011. have negative effects on women’s access to capital, mar-
investment products, to include entrepreneurship for them to put up Under the agreement, the ket, information, technology, and technical assistance. The
small businesses. Guittierrez said this “recognizes (OFW) efforts of Department of Trade and Indus- belief that women’s participation in businesses should be
pump priming the economy and their inexhaustible contribution to try, Technology and Livelihood limited to very small and overcrowded enterprises such
keeping the country’s economic lifeline running.” PIA Resource Center, Technical Edu- as “sari-sari” (village convenience) stores, preserved fruit
cation and Skills Development repacking, etc., has resulted in very small profits and high
Clark tollway due November Authority and other Philippine risks of business failure in these micro-enterprises.
CLARK ZONE, Pampanga - The P21-billion 93-kilometer Subic- government agencies would re-
Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx) would be completed in November view policies and guidelines that tate and enhance active women’s with men for decent jobs.”
2007. Narciso Abaya, president and CEO of the Bases Conversion and would create more accessible and participation in micro-enterprises “It also means involving them
Development Authority (BCDA), said the Philippines’ longest toll way friendlier business environments in pump-priming local econo- in profitable economic activities,
intended to transform Central and Northern Luzon into a super region. for women. mies. ensuring humane working condi-
Abaya said the completion of the tollway would jumpstart economic CIDA has also partnered with Sutherland said “economic tions, and increasing their control
development in Central Luzon and enable the country be globally-com- local government units, civil soci- empowerment means helping over the business environment,”
petitive. PNA ety and the private sector to facili- women have equal opportunities Sutherland added. PR
 GM eyes less oil reliance, Wheels Manila Media Monitor
34 JANUARY 2007
more vehicle electrification
General Motors (GM) Chairman and CEO
Rick Wagoner said the car firm has planned to re-
duce reliance on oil as an energy supply and has-
US lifts tariffs on Cdn steel
WASHINGTON - Automakers won a 2003.
Toyota trying
system to deter
ten the “electrification” of future GM vehicles.
In a recent Los Angeles Auto Show, Wag-
oner said “we must, as a business necessity, de-
surprise victory on Dec. 14 as the U.S. In-
ternational Trade Commission lifted most
In making their case, automakers point-
ed to steel shortages in the United States and
drunken driving
velop alternative sources of propulsion based on of the 13-year-old tariffs on imports of a 68 percent price increase over the past two
TOKYO - Toyota Motor Corp. is devel-
alternative sources of energy.” high-grade steel used in cars, a move that years, fueled by tariffs as high as 35 percent
oping a fail-safe system for cars that could
“Energy diversity” is the key, he said, add- should boost ailing Detroit automakers by on imports, depending on the country of ori-
detect drunken drivers and would automati-
ing that GM is committed to emission-free hy- lowering prices. gin. cally shut the vehicle down if sensors picked
drogen fuel cell electric vehicles. “We will offer In a 4-2 vote, the commission lifted tar- Automakers also noted the 12 percent
up signs of excessive alcohol consumption, a
more GM E85 FlexFuel (bio-ethanol) vehicles.” iffs on flat-rolled corrosion-resistant steel average profit of the largest steel companies
Jan. 3 Asahi Shimbun news report said.
David Paterson, vice president for corporate from Canada, France, Australia and Japan, after they underwent restructuring.
Cars fitted with the detection system
and environmental affairs of GM Canada Ltd., but kept them on imports from South Korea In contrast, GM and Ford have been los-
would not start if sweat sensors in the driv-
said the company has been doing more of this and Germany for another five years, David ing money and are cutting jobs and plants.
ing wheel detected high levels of alcohol in
work in Canada. Shepardson of the Detroit News reported. Because of tight competition, automak-
the driver’s bloodstream.
► GM Oshawa Engineering is assembling In an unusual display of solidarity, Gen- ers have been unable to pass on higher steel
The system could also kick in if the sen-
the world’s largest fuel cell test fleet of Chevro- eral Motors Corp., Ford Motor Co., Daim- prices by raising vehicle prices.
sors detected abnormal steering, or if a spe-
let Equinox Fuel Cell vehicles and working on lerChrysler AG, Toyota Motor Corp., Nis- The tariff rollbacks would help smaller
cial camera showed that the driver’s pupils
the development of GM’s next generation of ad- san Motor Co. and Honda Motor Co. jointly auto parts makers, who have often faced
were not in focus. The car would slow to a
vanced hybrid vehicle systems. worked to end the duties, which they argued shortages, forcing them to pay higher prices
halt.
► GM Windsor is building hybrid transmis- had cost them more than $3 billion since on the spot market. Toyota hoped to fit cars with the system
by the end of 2009.
Odd Makes & Models
sions for the Saturn Vue Green Line – the most
affordable hybrid SUV in the market – and the Nissan Motor Co., another Japanese car
new Saturn Aura hybrid that will be on dealer maker, has been experimenting with breatha-
lots in mid-2007. lyzer-like devices that could detect drunken
► GM St. Catharines is building GM “Ac- driving.
tive Fuel Management” engines that achieve up Similar technologies, such as alcohol ig-
to 12 percent better fuel economy by automati- nition interlocks, have been in use in the U.S.
cally shutting down half their cylinders when not and elsewhere.
needed, a key development for reducing highway Concerns over drunken driving have
fuel consumption. surged in Japan following a series of alco-
► GM Oshawa is building the award-win- hol-related accidents last year.
ning E85 Flex Fuel Chevy Impala which has the In August, a drunken driver collided with
lowest net greenhouse gas emissions of any ve- another vehicle carrying a family of five,
hicle sold in Canada, when running on cellulosic plunging them off a bridge and killing three
ethanol bio-fuel. Bamboo-embellished car in Ban- children.
► GM Kapuskasing initiates cold weather gued, Abra, the Philippines Japanese police have stepped up road
testing of hybrid electric, fuel cell and bio fuel inspections and have even proposed stiffer
vehicles. PR Brass-embellished car, California, USA penalties for drunken driving.
 Wheels 35 Manila Media Monitor JANUARY 2007

Detroit auto show Jan. 13-21

Are you are a motorhead
or just an average motorist
keen on getting a first look at
the hottest new vehicles com-
ing this year and beyond?
The North American
International Auto Show,
which remains the top US
auto show for its sheer num- Ford Interceptor
ber of important model intro-
ductions, is just for you.
The show runs Jan. 13 to
21 at the Cobo Hall, Detroit
Convention Center. Admis-
sion is $12, Forbes Autos/
Yahoo! has said.
Last year the show boast-
ed 70 new vehicles, includ-
ing many world debuts. But
Acura advanced sedan concept
business woes for domestic
automakers, combined with ruled at the Detroit show, V12-powered S600 sedan.
weak economic conditions with unveilings of the Chev- Other cars to debut in-
and inflamed gas prices, rolet Camaro and Dodge clude a special edition of
mean that they are under a lot Challenger concepts as well the Mini Cooper convertible
of pressure to deliver designs as the 2007 Ford Shelby called the Sidewalk; a thinly
that are going to be a hit with GT500. The trend continues veiled preview of the next
discerning shoppers. this year, with a Chevrolet Mitsubishi Evolution sport
Car makers will keep Camaro convertible con- sedan in its Prototype X; a
pushing stylish, car-based cept and a revamped 600-hp Nissan multipurpose vehicle
SUVs - called crossovers Dodge Viper. concept called the Bevel;
because they are a sort of Chrysler will show its and a revised and face-lifted
cross between a wagon and Nassau wagon concept that, ‘08 Porsche Cayenne.
an SUV - as alternatives to according to the automaker, Anticipated, but not cer-
sedans and minivans; sporty brings the side silhouette tain, are Hummer’s new H4,
niche utility vehicles will of a British-style “shooting a smaller model designed
hone in on younger, more- brake” sports car (like a low- to go head-to-head with the
finicky buyers; and striking slung wagon) and the cargo Wrangler, and a revised 2007
designer interiors, with ma- versatility of an SUV. It is Maserati Quattroporte.
terials such as brushed alu- based on the same platform Two other concepts con-
minum and carbon fiber, and as Chrysler’s 300 sedan and firmed for Detroit will pres-
customizable features like will likely see production. age production cars to come.
LED mood lighting and mul- Ford will pull the wraps Jaguar is bringing a concept
timedia entertainment sys- off a high-performance, rear- car, the C-XF, that will give
tems will find a place even in wheel-drive sedan concept a glimpse of the S-Type’s re-
the smallest cars. called the Interceptor, based placement, due for ‘09; and
Here are some of the new on the Mustang coupe. Volvo’s upcoming XC60
vehicles expected to grace Lincoln may also show a SUV isn’t expected until
the Detroit auto show show: high-performance sport se- the ‘09 model year, but the
At the recent Los An- dan called the MKR. automaker will show it as a
geles auto show, Acura The Trailhawk concept concept at Detroit. Read our
unveiled the future design that Jeep plans to roll out is preview of the Volvo XC60
direction of its sedans with based on the Wrangler, but here.
its high-waisted, aggressive with a more stylish, contem- Rolls-Royce will bring
Advanced Sedan Concept. porary appearance inside and the production-bound ver-
In Detroit, Honda’s luxury out, including an open-top. sion of its convertible model,
brand will roll out a similarly Lexus plans a new high- called the Phantom Drop-
named Advanced Sports Car performance line, designated head. Teased in concept form
concept that the company with the “F” and equipped for several years, the latest
says “provides a glimpse at competitively against Mer- development bears the same
the next-generation Acura cedes-Benz’s AMG line and huge, 6.75-liter V12 engine
exotic sports car,” presum- BMW’s M cars. The first of as the Phantom sedan. Sur-
ably one to fill the void left these, the IS-F, a high-pow- prisingly, the $407,000 two-
by the discontinued NSX. ered version of the brand’s IS door model has rear-hinged
Although it’s no secret sport sedan, will be unveiled doors, a unique, eye-catch-
that the 2007 BMW 3 Series at the show and is expected ing feature.
Convertible will use a fold- for 2008, along with a futur- General Motors an-
ing hardtop system rather istic hybrid sports car con- nounced at the November
than a conventional soft-top, cept called the FT-HS. LA show that it is working
Detroit will mark the public Mazda has a new hybrid on a plug-in hybrid version
debut for the models. version of the Tribute, called of the Saturn Vue, which
The 2008 Cadillac CTS the 2008 Tribute HEV. More would allow drivers to do
sport sedan launched a whole mysterious is the automak- short commutes on electric
new and much-acclaimed er’s Ryuga, the latest of sev- power only, with gasoline-
look for Cadillac when it eral recent Mazda sports car hybrid function for longer
debuted in 2002 and will re- concepts. The Ryuga looks trips. GM is expected to
ceive its first major redesign to be a very sleek, sculpted make a significant follow-up
for model year ‘08. It should sports car with gullwing announcement at Detroit.
prove to be a significant new doors. As always, there will un-
model for this American Mercedes-Benz plans doubtedly be many cleverly
brand that faces steeper com- to break the blahs with its kept surprises that are not re-
petition by the year. Ocean Drive, a four-door leased until the official press
Last year, muscle cars convertible based on the big, days of the Detroit show.
JANUARY 2007 Manila Media Monitor 36
One of the real joys of the New Year is the opportunity to say
“Thank You” and to wish you a full year of
Happiness and Success!
FILIPINO FURY gets iced early but shows true Pinoy grit
The community’s hockey team Filipino Fury (right photo)
might have lost most of its games against better opponents in
the Canadian Multicultural Hockey League tournament from
Dec. 27 to 30.
But Filipino Fury has not only gained experience. The team
has told all and sundry that Filipinos can play and excel in Can-
ada’s number one sports too.
Fury general manager Rommel Legaspi, in an interview
with Triponhaitas Production’s Voulakapralos, said the tourney
was the “first time we got off together as a team to play.”
“It is encouraging and we hope all the players will come
back. We will continue with this because we do want to start a
Filipino hockey team, Legaspi said. (See below for more)
Fury Aldrin Alvarez also told Voulakapralos that team
members understood that playing as a hockey team needed “a
lot of work ... a lot of practice.” Alvarez noted Filipino pride as
the team’s motivation: “We want to represent the Philippines.”
He has this good advice for parents: “Get your kids involved
in hockey early and we’ll be very competitive in the long run.”
CMHL Website Video and Photo

Manila Media Monitor

JANUARY 2007 37 Sports

CMHL HOCKEY, MODEL OF TORONTO’S DIVERSITY. Ace Alvarez, 1st vice

president and corporate secretary of the Canadian Ethnic Media Associa-
tion (CEMA) highlights the importance of the Canadian Multicultural Hockey
Championships in reflecting Canada’s diversity and in pulling various com-
munities together. Alvarez, also the managing editor of Manila Media Moni-
tor and producer of TV program Front Page Philippines on OMNI Television,
spoke during the official launch of the games in Scarborough. Looking on
are two of the hockey league’s organizers, Clara Northcott and Tim Fujita.
In foreground are the prestigious trophies -- the Canadian Cup and Heritage
Bowl -- awaiting the tournament’s best. CMHL Photo

Filipino Fury: Unity through Canada’s game

Rommel Legaspi and the sports organizations since he to help draw new players to
Filipino Fury have one goal was a child. the team.
as the newest members of “I’ve always wanted to do Legaspi adds that it has
the Canadian Multicultural what I can to help the com- been a learning process,
Hockey League: to raise munity,” he says. “That’s watching players, and deter-
awareness of the sport in the why I got involved with the mining who will make up his
Filipino community. CMHL.” final roster.
“Filipino people aren’t Legaspi confides that put- He sees the CMHL as a
traditionally seen as hockey ting a team together has been way to help Filipino hock-
fans or players, but that’s a challenge: “Some of the ey grow for generations to
changing,” Legaspi says. larger communities have an come.
“In the last five or ten easier time bringing people “We want the younger
years, we’ve seen younger out, whereas we only have members of our commu-
people in the Filipino com- a handful of players that we nity to embrace the game
munity getting involved in know about.” of hockey, and share in this
the sport.” So far, he is relying on experience, so that they’ll
And while many mem- e-mails and word of mouth, want to become involved,”
bers of the community are hoping that word of the team he says.
basketball fans, Legaspi will spread. This is what he feels the
adds that like many Canadi- “I know a lot of the CMHL can provide: “It cre-
ans, there are “a lot of die- players who have come ates a positive atmosphere
hard Filipino hockey fans out, whether it be through and unites us all through
out there.” friends or hockey,” he says, Canada’s game, and that’s
An active member of adding that he hopes to use the really great part about it.”
the community, Legaspi has community newspapers and Natalie Papulkas, CMHL
been involved in Filipino web sites in the near future Website
 Sports
Manila Media Monitor
JANUARY 2007 38
38 Manila Media Monitor JANUARY 2007

GOLFING AROUND. The yearlong golf season for golfers of Ontario’s Tala-
mak group ends with an awards night. Recipients of championship honors ON ITS 31st YEAR, the Executive Officers and Board of Directors of the To-
in 2006 are (from left) Ferdi Regala, Charlie Schlobohm, Ramon de Guzman, ronto Filipino Bowling Congress promise an even more exciting year ahead
Aldrin Balbas, Rene Bedana, Rick Solis and Lou Servio (not in photo). for its members. (Courtesy: Oscar Cruz)

Entertainment

Vivian of V Beyond Expression Band keeps the groove alive at Ellen’s Place
in Mississauga. The band’s versatility with hits of the 60’s to contemporary
pop music makes it a major attraction when it plays alternate weekends at
the popular restaurant and karaoke bar. Manila Media Monitor Photo

How fares Philippine TV ...

(From page 8)

MOST WELL-LIKED FEMALE TV PERSONALITIES: (From left) Mel Tiangco,

Sarah Geronimo, Christine Bersola-Babao, Bernadette Sembrano, Korina
Sanchez, Kristine Hermosa and Bea Alonzo. Below, BATANG BRODKASTERS
Francis Gavreel Villanueva and
Sotto. (Ryan, Marvin and Dolphy made it Raquel Gertrude Correa represented
in previous years’ lists.) by father, Camilo Correa with Edgar-
Females: Boots Anson Roa, Claudine do Roces, SEAFCTV President. MCH
Barretto, Gloria Romero, Jolina Magdan-
gal, Jessica Sojo, Mikee Cojuangco, Pia
Guanio, Regine Velasquez, Rhea Santos
and Susan Roces. (Jolina and Rhea were
in previous lists; Mikee C is perennially a
winner but could not be declared as she is
spokesperson for the foundation that runs
the survey.)
Interesting sidenotes to the survey were
the fairly impressive showing of the late
action king FPJ, star in hiatus Nora Aunor,
star turned politician Vilma Santos, civic
worker Rosa Rosal and former president
Cory Aquino. So there.
JANUARY 2007 Manila Media Monitor 39
JANUARY 2007 Manila Media Monitor 40