The Philippine Times January 2013 edition

Transcription

The Philippine Times January 2013 edition
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22nd YEAR
The Philippine Times
JANUARY 2013
www.philtimes.com.au
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Colourful smiles
Melbourne-based Filipino photographer Ron Diocera captures the colourful smiles of these three teenagers who are
part of the Ati-atihan group. The group performed during the Philippine Fiesta of Victoria held last 24-25 November
2012 at the Royal Melbourne Showgrounds. Diocera bested 40 other photographers of the Filipino Camera Club of
Melbourne who joined The Philippine Times’ Fiesta Photo Competition. Read more fiesta stories on pages 14-19.
Philippine Tours agent
sacked for embezzling $150k
A trusted and long time agent
of Philippine Tours was dismissed for misappropriating
more than $150,000 of clients’
money, according to distraught
owner Virginia Kalong. Philippine Tours has been in operation
for nearly 30 years now.
The discovery came midDecember of last year, after a
call from a client asking for
her family’s tickets prompted
Kalong to start an investigation.
Documents showed that the
beleaguered agent had the client
and other clients deposit cash
payments to her personal bank
account. She managed to cover
monies she received from clients
by applying to their accounts
payments made in the same
amount by other clients who
used credit cards.
When the company started receiving complaints, they started
to do their internal investigation.
“We asked the passengers how
they paid, and was told they paid
the agent direct but we cannot
find this payment. Then we got
the proof of payment by direct
deposit which was deposited
direct to the agent’s own account. Most clients who paid
by credit card, the payment was
applied to another client to cover
the monies the agent received
directly and over and over and
over again...until she could no
longer cover this anymore,” she
told The Philippine Times.
Kalong, who was unsettled by
Continued on page 8
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JANUARY 2013 the philippine times www.philtimes.com.au CELEBRATING 22 YEARS
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CELEBRATING 22 YEARS www.philtimes.com.au the philippine times JANUARY 2013
editorial
Three cheers for us and 2013!
promised to work harder to
improve the country’s economic standing and called
on the nation to help him
achieve this end by reliving
the sprit of ‘bayanihan’.
In Australia, like President
Aquino, Prime Minister Julia
Gillard wished the nation a
happy 2013 and also took
stock of what her leadership
has achieved in 2012, reminding Australians that the
federal election is also near.
The PM talked of how great
Australia is as attested by
our economy’s resilience in
the face of global economic
crisis. We surprised the
world with the unwavering
strength of the Aussie dollar and Australia’s strong
public finances. This claim
finds support in an article
released by The Economist
entitled The Lottery of Life.
The studies conducted by
the Economist Intelligence
Unit attempted to measure
which country will provide
the best opportunities for a
healthy and prosperous life
from 2013 until the next
decades taking into account
how happy people are and
the objective determinants
of the quality of life. Here,
Australia ranked second to
Switzerland proving that life
down under provides a good
head start for 2013.
On a personal note, the
ushering of the new year
finds some of us reunited
with old resolutions that
Whether in the Philippines, here in Australia or
wherever part of the world,
most people rush to the New
Year hardly awake from the
string of Christmas parties,
bone tired from days of
shopping and a little broke
from being carried away
by the spirit of the season
which is often equated to
a month’s salary worth of
gifts to families and friends.
No matter what state we are
caught in during the last
days of the outgoing year,
each of us never fails to
turn over a leaf in an instant
and welcome the new year
with renewed vigor for the
promises it brings.
In the Philippines, President Noynoy Aquino joined
the merriment without
passing up the opportunity
to speak his mind on the upcoming midterm elections.
He reminded the electorate
of the need to vote for candidates who advocate reforms
and adhere to the ‘straight
path’. He noted that the results of the elections are crucial in sustaining what his
government has achieved in
the past three years. He bannered his administration’s
successes, highlighting the
recent 7.1 percent growth in
the country’s gross domestic
product (GDP), the passage
and enactment of laws that
had long been shelved and
the developments in the
Bangsamaro peace pact. He
The Philippine Times
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Reby Gaw
CONTRIBUTORS
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failed to see the light
of day while the more
successful ones among
us, have strategically
planned their new resolutions with the aim
of getting on them
right at the very
first day of 2013.
Noted preacher
Bo Sanchez in
one of his articles
suggested ways
to become successful in having ‘ fantastic
changes’ in
one’s life. One
of these is the
30-day challenge. In this
program, one
only has to start
with one change
or habit and do it
for the next 30
days. He said it
takes 21 days to
create a new pattern in one’s life and
a mental pathway
in the brain. Instead
of calling it the 21-day
challenge, Sanchez opted
for 30 days so as not to take
any chances.
However each of us plans
to achieve our resolutions,
dreams or goals for 2013,
may their achievement lead
us not to stray from those
that are real important in
this lifetime such as our
faith, family, education,
principles, passion, com-
mitment and the truth. It is
always easy to embrace the
new year with full hope but
the real challenge is to wel-
come it with a clear mind,
steadfast determination and
a pure heart. A start is only
as good as the end. As we
are all given a symbolic new
lease on life, we better make
that life count the best way
we know how.
OPINION
Filipino Community
deserves the right to know
I’m breaking my silence on
this issue. The things that are
going on now surrounding the
Philippine fiesta celebration is
“all cover-up”. This is not the
real picture of this celebration-“tuloy ang saya” as published
in the newspaper. This is only
claimed by “few pretentious and
selfish people within the committee”. Why can’t they realise
that the “Philippine fiesta is for
the Filipino community” and
not only for a chosen FEW? Is it
because they benefit from it? Is
it because of fame or something
more?
It’s just FAIR and RIGHT for
the Filipino community to know
the true financial statement of
this organisation and again, NOT
ONLY THOSE FEW PEOPLE.
How can you enjoy the fiesta
celebration when in fact, most
of the people now know that the
“integrity and honesty” of most
of the people in the committee
is a big question, meaning…
could we really believe what
they are saying??? One evidence
that people are sick and tired of
the dishonesty of these people
is when only a very few people
ran as candidates during the
last election. Only four people
ran and some of them were
convinced to run for the benefit of the so called “trapo”(old,
traditional politicians) candidates and to gain more votes for
themselves. One even had his/
her relative run. THEY SHOULD
REMEMBER, THEY ARE ONLY
VOLUNTEER WORKERS!!!
Why are some of them so
desperate to stay in power???
Why??? One question they
should answer and explain,
for the benefit of the people is
this: when we were still in the
committee---there was the case
of the questionable missing fund
in the amount of $ 8,500.00
in the term deposit account.
When asked about it, the money
was deposited back after a few
weeks. “Who, why, and how”
did this happen? We are not running a magical show here--now
you see it, now you don’t. This
is a public office and a public
trust. They should be liable for
any wrongdoings they do.
Even the disqualification of
Mr. Ed Guevarra was not fair and
just, considering the position
is only for volunteers and he
is known for his community
services, most especially for his
Ati-atihan contribution. And
“no election took place”. That is
how they made sure Ed couldn’t
get in so they could have automatic re-election for themselves.
Ed is not running for parliament
here. The best thing to do is “let
all members of the fiesta vote for
the right candidate and not just
have 16 people casting votes,
considering some of them are
“magkumpare, magkamag-anak,
magbabarkada”. They can hang
on to the positions because of
their number.
And now they are saying
“tuloy ang saya”? MAGKAROON
NAMAN SILA NG “DELIKADESA” (MORAL). ANG DAPAT
NA ISIGAW, “ITULOY ANG
IMBESTIGASYON AT SABIHIN
ANG KATOTOHANAN SA TAONG BAYAN!”
Respectfully yours,
Remy Raquel
Photo by Filipino Camera Club of Melbourne
JANUARY 2013 the philippine times www.philtimes.com.au CELEBRATING 22 YEARS
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JANUARY 2013 the philippine times www.philtimes.com.au CELEBRATING 22 YEARS
Another year of fun while
learning Filipino
Maria Smith
What a truly nostalgic
Christmas celebration at the
Victorian School of Languages
(VSL) on 24 November 2012
marking the end of another
school year for Filipino-Australian students learning the
Filipino language and culture
at Dandenong High School.
As part of its linguistic
and intercultural learning,
the students participated in
the most-awaited end-ofyear Filipino-style Christmas
party, complete with feasting,
dancing (by Jurem Ortencio,
Ian Adarlo, Ira Roxas, Ca-
mille Agustin, Tatyana and
Antony Jones-Wilson) and
singing sentimental carols
“Pasko na Naman”, “All I
Want for Christmas” (sang by
Jurem) and the most nostalgic
song of all “Miss Kita Kung
Christmas” affectionately
sung by Mrs. Smith.
But the highlight of the
program was the surprise
visit from Santa in his red
and white outfit, wearing
a big smile and a pair of
sunglasses! It was certainly
a moment when cameras
could not have captured the
special touch
that Santa’s
presence had
brought to the
VSL students
whose level
of excitement
was heightened
by
thoughtful
little presents of fluffy,
feathery toys
and other
VSL Katherin
a Smith-Will
goodies.
iams and
Jurel Ortenci
o enjoying
Santa’s
Santa’s gift
s
visit was the
initiative of Mrs. Norminda
Forteza, former Chairperson
of the Australian-Filipino
Community Services (formerly CPCA) and one of the
pioneer Filipino language
teachers at the VSL. Due to
her chaplaincy commitment,
Mrs. Forteza now volunteers
her services for the AFCS
with husband Luis who
was of course dressed up as
Santa.
This gathering once again
cemented the special partnership between the VSL and
the AFCS and their tireless
commitment in supporting
Australian-Filipino youths on
issues impacting on and challenging their young lives such
as financial literacy and how
VSL Xmas 2012 with Mrs. Smith (top right end)
to become actively involved
in embracing cultural and
social diversity in this global
Australian community.
The Christmas party also
highlighted the spirit of gift
giving with the students
delightfully singing the kris
kringle jingle “I Love my
Manito, Yes I do” while surprising everyone with their
presents.
The week before, the VSL
students also put together and
participated in a sports and
cultural day with traditional
Filipino games such as “Sack
Race”, “The Longest Line”,
“Trip to Jerusalem”, “Going to
Market”, among others.
Indeed, to study at the
VSL involves not only learning the Filipino language
but also experiencing the
culture and tradition. This
means reliving the beautiful
memories of years gone by,
for instance the memories of
special Christmases we can
still picture in our minds
but with the absence of the
mouth-watering scent of
malagkit na suman, puto
Year 11s (from left) Rushiel,
Andrea (guitarist), Bernice,
Iris and Jen (seated in
front) re-living the Filipino
Xmas at the VSL
Year 11s Jurem and
Ian with cool santa in
sunglasses (Mr. Luis Forteza
of AFCS)
bumbong at bibingka, inihaw
na baboy at lechon sa kawali
while we walk to church for
the simbang gabi before enjoying Noche Buena at home
with our family members and
other special loved ones.
(For 2013, classes start on
9 February, Saturday at the
Filipino Language faculty in
Dandenong High School at
Princes Highway, Dandenong.
For more information, ring
Ms. Angela Natoli on 9791
9289 or email southeast@vsl.
vic.edu.au.)
Celebrating a meaningful birthday
Maria Smith
The Scent Thai Restaurant at Knox City Ozone
was glittering not just with
Christmas tinsels but also
with warm cuddles and
smiles from close friends
and other well-wishers from
the Knox Seniors Group
attending Cynthia Norton’s
64th birthday on December
19, 2012.
Cynthia, an active and
leading member of the Knox
Seniors, has recently been
nominated and elected as
Chairperson of the Australian Filipino Community
Services (AFCS, formerly
CPCA) which also celebrated
Cynthia Norton, the new CPCA
its 21st anniversary and annual Christmas gathering at
the Cardinia Cultural Centre
on December 5.
Cynthia has also been
active in other social and
cultural events recently attending the Pasko sa Nayon
Concert, and has always
been extending a helping
hand in coordinating or as
a participant (as an Abanico
dancer) in social and cultural
events.
Needless to say the restaurant’s mouth-watering
menu kept everyone entertained together with the
typically warm and endless
Cynthia’s 64th Birthday with
the Knox Seniors Group
social chats amongst friends
seemingly nostalgic of oldfashioned “kumustahan”
catching up with the latest
happenings in the Filipino
social circles.
But what makes Cynthia’s
birthday more memorable
was the meaning behind
it. Instead of giving her
birthday presents, Cynthia
requested well-wishers to
donate to a good cause for
instance to the Salesian
Sisters coordinated by Sister
Maureen Irvine of the St.
Jude’s Parish in George St.
Scoresby.
The Sisters also known
as the Daughters of Mary
Help of Christians are particularly attentive to the
needs of educating the young
people. The Sisters are also
based in the Philippines so
the Tondo slums have been
one of the suggested group
to benefit from Cynthia’s
birthday fundraising.
What else can be so meaningful and fulfilling as to
make a difference to the lives
of these unfortunate, deprived and poverty-stricken
children of the Tondo slums,
an area which sadly have
been linked with the “moun-
chairperson doing the ‘Abanico’
tain of garbage” in Manila.
for dance at CPCA’s 21st Christmas
Indeed a tremendous
celebration.
thank you to Cynthia Norton
who at the time of writing
underwent a major surgery Sister Maureen of the Salesian Nuns
in relation to some gyne- talked about their work at the Tondo
cological issues commonly Slums in the Philippines where
experienced by women in donations were given instead of
this highly stressful and birthday gifts to Cynthia Norton.
demanding society.
However, Cynthia’s positive outlook and spiritual
strength have been an inspiration to all her friends
and colleagues during this
very trying time. We pray
for her speedy recovery and
understandably she will
be expected to take some
much-needed rest before
getting back
to her active
volunteering
and other
social commitments in
order to make
a difference
in the lives of
the young and
the elderly
members of
the Australian-Filipino PCA Christmas Party where volunteers were given awards by the
c o mmunit y. councillor of Cardinia and Cynthia Norton the new chair person. CPCA is
God bless you, now 21 years old and has now grown to by AFCS-CPCA incorporating the
Cynthia!
next generation of Australian Filipino families and youth.
8
Continued from page 1...
Philippine tours...
the discovery, immediately
appealed to her affected
clients and ensured that
they were all rebooked and
ticketed. “Bottom line is
that no clients were in any
way out of pocket, inconvenienced, yes, and for this I
apologise on behalf of PT
but we were victimised,
betrayed and lied to by this
agent,” she added.
As of press time, the
amount embezzled is said
to be $152,751 but there
are still transactions unaccounted for. In an interview,
Kalong said they are waiting
to hear from other clients
who transacted business
with this agent. Philippine
Tours wants to confirm how
they paid for their tickets
because their accounts reflect payments made using
other persons’ accounts.
Amidst the betrayal, Kalong is confident with the
“no payment, no ticket”
system being used by Philippine Tours. She is resolute
not to lose faith in other
people just because of this
breach of trust. “I will not
allow one person’s wrongdoings to punish the rest of
my staff. I have terminated
our dealings with this agent
and I believe that I have
100 percent efficient, trustworthy and loyal people in
my office,” she asserted.
Kalong said the company
will not change anything
as its system is very effective but will improve on
crosschecking.
Kalong is consoled by
the compassion shown by
her affected clients who
understood that she and her
company are also victims. “I
want to sincerely thank my
clients who supported us
through the several weeks
of trauma and willingly
submitted their documents
to us to help us in our auditing,” she said.
The agent, who admitted to the deed, is now in
the Philippines. Kalong
even prepaid the agent and
her husband’s tickets after
having been promised payment. “I have given the
agent all opportunities to
come clean. I was promised (in writing) that they
have property being sold in
the Philippines and I will
be paid by the proceeds,
but, of course, it was also
fraud,” Kalong painfully
recounted.
Despite the unfinished
ordeal, Kalong strives to
come out of it unscathed.
“This happens even to the
best operator or corporation
but they can afford the
losses due to their higher
profitability. We are solid
but this fraud created a big
hole in our business. Trust
has to come from someone,
I still trust all my staff, we
just have to be more vigilant
in crosschecking to avoid
temptation and this happening again.”
Last month’s crisis is
indeed a roller-coaster ride
and Kalong drew strength
from God, “After the novena
last night and searching for
CELEBRATING 22 YEARS www.philtimes.com.au the philippine times JANUARY 2013
the right thing to do, I am
more geared on listening to
what my heart is saying-forgiveness. I cannot even
get angry. I am hurt but not
mad. I am sad for her. I take
full responsibility, I took
her in.”
If given a choice, Kalong
wants to keep silent and end
everything, “I really want to
put this behind me and move
on but justice is needed. Not
for me but for the people
around me who trusted her
and our clients.”
9
JANUARY 2013 the philippine times www.philtimes.com.au CELEBRATING 22 YEARS
Filipino DJs: Mixing fun and music
Disc Jockeys (DJs) can
make or break the overall
success or failure of an
organisation or an individual’s event. Whether
it’s a community event,
corporate or a private party
like wedding, birthday or
anniversary, hiring the best
DJ is sure to leave a lasting
impression on the guests.
Filipino guests are particularly finicky. Different ages demand different danceable music, be
it swing, chacha, rumba
mixed with the latest dance
craze like Gangnam Style.
The image the DJs project
to the community and their
clients is also important.
The expertise of the DJs to
seamlessly coordinate the
mix of music, program, and
dance should always be of
high calibre.
While all of us enjoy
the dancing and music,
our Filipino DJs are hard
at work. Work for them
usually starts from Friday
until Sunday and holidays,
which leave them sacrificing time with family
and friends. Also, they are
definitely the first and last
to leave your event.
Meet some of our Filipino
DJs:
DJ Pros and Son Andre
Alvizo (DJ Pros Lights and
Sound)
DJ Pros Lights and Sound
has been in operation for
more than ten years now.
The group services most of
the major Filipino events in
Melbourne like the Philippine Fiesta, Independence
Day, and Melbourne Cup.
They also provide music to
private events like birthdays
and weddings. They play
varied songs for teenagers
and adults.
DJ Pogz - Gary Cajili
and DJ Awie - Aldwin Cajili (Kayumanggi Entertainment)
Kayumanggi Entertainment provides music for
all occasions--birthdays,
engagement, weddings,
special events, and corporate functions. According
to DJ Pogz, they cater to any
type of crowd and event
with their quality sound
and lighting. They are sure
to make any event a huge
success. Contact Gary Cajili’s mobile 0431489198 or
97992327 or email gcajili@
optusnet.com.au.
DJ Dan (Chemixtry Mobile)
Chemixtry Mobile has
been operating since the
late 90s. Filipino DJ Dan has
more than 10 years experience in being a DJ. Chemixtry Mobile provides music,
lighting, and projection
equipment with affordable
DJ hire. It specialises on
birthdays, weddings, christenings, dinner dances, and
other parties. Contact 0415
199 898 or e-mail: chemixtrymobile@yahoo.com.au
or pinoydjmelbourne@
yahoo.com.au.
Do you know any Filipino
DJs in your area? Email us
their details at reby.gaw@
gmail.com.
DJ Awie and DJ Pogz
DJ Pros
DJ Andre and crew
DJ Danny
10
CELEBRATING 22 YEARS www.philtimes.com.au the philippine times JANUARY 2013
Dads welcome a special
new arrival this January
1 January 2013 marked
the first day of the Gillard
Government’s Dad and Partner Pay which gives more
support for working dads
when a baby arrives.
D a d a n d Pa r t n e r Pa y
extends the Australian
Government’s successful
Paid Parental Leave scheme
which has helped about
250,000 working parents mostly mums - since 2011.
Now dads can get financial support to spend more
time off with their new
babies too.
Dad and Partner Pay gives
eligible working dads and
same-sex partners two weeks
of Government-funded pay
at the rate of the national
minimum wage (currently
about $606 per week before
tax), for children born or
adopted from 1 January
2013.
Over the new year, The
Minister for Families, Jenny
Macklin, visited new parents at The Mercy Hospital
in Melbourne to celebrate
the arrival of Dad and Partner Pay.
“This is a big change for
some dads and a welcome
one at that,” Ms Macklin
said.
“For many self-employed
dads, contractors and casual
workers this will be the first
time they’ll have access to
any paid paternity leave. It
will give them some extra
support to take time off to
bond with their baby and
help mum recover from the
birth.”
“Families in this day and
age want dad to have the
chance to spend time at
home with mum
and baby – it’s
good for the whole
family.”
To be eligible,
dads and same-sex
partners must be
Australian residents and: have
worked at least
330 hours (just
over one day a
week) in 10 of the
13 months before
the start of their
payment; have
earned $150,000
or less in the previous financial year;
and be on unpaid leave or
not working and be caring for their child during
their two weeks of Dad and
Partner Pay.
Dads and same-sex partners can be eligible for
the payment even if their
partner is not receiving the
Government’s Paid Parental Leave. Claims must be
lodged by the dad or partner
who is eligible to receive the
payment.
Ms Macklin said dads
could apply up to three
months before their baby’s
due date, making it easier
for parents to get ready.
“Since applications
opened on 1 October almost
1,000 dads and same-sex
partners have lodged a
claim,” Ms Macklin said.
“I encourage eligible parents to get the paperwork
done for this and Paid Parental Leave early – it takes a bit
of pressure off in those first
few weeks after the birth.”
For more information and
to download materials with
further information in various languages visit www.
fahcsia.gov.au/dadandpartnerpay/otherlanguages.
The Philippine Times
Celebrating 22 years.
Preferred partner of advertisers
11
JANUARY 2013 the philippine times www.philtimes.com.au CELEBRATING 22 YEARS
Student Universe
Darwin Manubag
Welcoming Pinoy
students to Melbourne
2012 was a great year
for many students in Melbourne. We just celebrated
graduation with a year-end
party last 13 December
at Williamstown Beach
but because of the erratic
weather, the event was
transferred to Kuya Gerry’s
house in Cairnlea. The
celebration was successful
because of the support
of Kuya Ceasar Beltran,
Kuya Boy Espineda, Kuya
Boy Solas, Kuya Gerry and
Mila Rodriguez, Natalie
and Manong Williams, and
Kuya Albert Sy. Fifteen
postgraduate students from
different universities (as far
as our record is concerned)
finished their respective degrees. One student finished
with honors at Melbourne
University while the others submitted their major
papers with flying colours.
Most of the graduates are
now back in the Philippines
armed with the knowledge
they have gained in Australia. We are also thankful to
Kuya Bobby Cano for taking
the students to Lake Eldon.
He made the holiday season
extra special with the support of Allan Francisco. The
Ramirez Family (Kuya Ciel,
Ate Tess, Noel, and Ping)
also offered their house
in Caroline Springs for
students who had no place
to celebrate Noche Buena.
This 2013 brings with it
a new round of challenges
for students who have just
commenced their respective programs. Those who
just arrived are either under
scholarship programs sponsored by the Australian
Government or a university
or are international selfpaying students. Most are
professionals in the Philippines who are taking up
Graduate Diploma, Masters
Degree or Doctoral Degree
courses. A number of them
are Certified Nurses in
the Philippines who are
doing Bridging Courses in
TAFE schools. Some are
also doing their Bachelor
of Nursing, Aged Care or
Management courses.
The challenges these
students face may include
finding cheaper permanent
accommodation and household items. There are also
a number of them who are
scouting for part-time jobs
to pay for school fees. Others want to have an income
so they can send money
back home. Some new
ones are always converting prices from Australian
dollar to Philippine peso,
checking if the items here
are cheaper or not.
The challenges also take
into account the unpredictable Melbourne weather,
opening bank accounts,
subscribing to mobile and
internet services and finding ways to arrange manageable house transfer to avoid
paying costly removalist’s
services. Apart from the
recurring homesickness,
adjusting to the new environment is crucial. This
includes passing exams,
writing academic essays
and research papers, getting
acquainted with the transportation system, getting
used to the Australian accent, dealing with cultural
differences in the campus,
and being diligent about
time management.
On the bright side, the
student community is
thankful that there are good
Filipino-Aussie Samaritans
who are willing to help,
thus becoming like a second family to them. Life in
Melbourne becomes less
Graduation Party at Gerry Rodriguez’s House in Cairnlea.
Christmas treat at Lake Eldon courtesy of Bobby Cano.
difficult because of these
kind-hearted people.
Students meet regularly
after the month ly Filipino Mass at Saint Francis
Church, CDB. We have a
Semestral Welcome and
Acquaintance Party for new
students on 9 February 2013
at the FCCVI Community
Centre. You can also join
our Melbourne Pinoy Students and Friends Network
Facebook Page at http://
www.facebook.com/groups/
pinoyscholarsmelbourne/
or like our page, Filipino
Australian Students Council Victoria. For donations
and enquiries, you can
email me at jcdarwinm@
yahoo.com.
12
CELEBRATING 22 YEARS www.philtimes.com.au the philippine times JANUARY 2013
Pinoy Christmas Party 2012
Albert Megaritz
I felt a bit nostalgic after
being in Australia for so
many years now. I arrived
in Australia in 1990 which
means 23 years of seeing
kids grow up, witnessing
four seasons come and go
and moving from one place
to another. So one day I
c ontacted Ed G u e v a r r a
and the rest of our solid
friends. We met up and
agreed on wanting to have
a party that is traditional
and worth remembering.
We d e c i d e d t o h o l d a
Christmas Party for our
fellow Pinoys at Hampton
Pa r k a n d n e i g h b o u r i n g
suburbs.
Alas, we’ve done it! It
was held last 22 December
2012 at the Arthur Wren
Hall in Hampton Park. All
seats were taken. The party
was definitely a success
and everyone had fun.
Filipino dishes were served
including San Miguel Beer.
There were free photo
sessions and performance
from a live band called
Expression.
The organising committee decided to do it yearly.
For this year, the date is
set on 21 December 2013
in the same hall.
Members of the commit-
tee are: Ed Guevarra, Obet
Guevarra, Albert Megartiz,
Pat Aguilar, Jovy Adeva,
Junior Gutierrez, Dario San
Jose, Sid Alcantara and
Melly Rawlinson.
PEASER Birthdays
Village
Green
PEASER Member Natividad Sonza celebrated
90 wonderful years with family and friends on
23 December 2012.
Friday 22 Feb 2013,
7:30pm
Corner Springvale and
PEASER Member Silvestra Misajon turned
91 on 1 January with her family wishing
her a wonderful 2013.
Ferntree Gully Roads,
Mulgrave
Club Italia
Saturday 23 Feb 2013,
7:30pm
Furlong Road, Sunshine
Liz: 0412 191 577
liz@lizhoney.com or FB
Chris: 0413 455 918
Choy Symes: 0422 807 339
Chito Javier: 0414 061 777
and most Filipino stores
Gold: Prepaid $60
Silver: Prepaid $45
+ $10 at the Door
13
JANUARY 2013 the philippine times www.philtimes.com.au CELEBRATING 22 YEARS
Bayanihan brings Pasko festivities
to Melbourne
Mila Cichello
The Pasko sa Nayon 2012
Community Concert at BMW
Edge, Federation Square on 2
December 2012 was declared
awesome by the attending
public for touching them in
more ways than one.
“I heard all the singing,
that is why I came to investigate. Is that the opera
singer there onstage? She
has a good voice, yeah, very
pretty.” - Bun, Fed Square Security
“I’m glad I came tonight.
Maganda talaga.” - Elena
“Lola P. cried during the
Mamahalin Kita Duet- it
reminded her of her beloved
husband.” – Vilma (Nurse/
Carer)
“You are getting better
every year!”- Daniel, Fed
Square Senior Tech
“My son is going out with
a Filipina girl. I saw your
poster near the door today.
I’m glad I came back to
watch. Do you do this every
year?” – Anonymous Australian woman
“Congratulations on Sunday night’s concert! It was
just delightful! Best ever,
don’t you think? Warmest
wishes.” - Mary
“I teach Filipino folk dance
to Filipino and Aussie kids.
Can we dance for your group
next year?” - Ellen
“Congratulations! First
Pasko time for me to attend
and I enjoyed it. A great
cultural show and we will
certainly help you and sell
tickets next Christmas!”
- Tessie
“I think Pasko was a huge
success and heard many
positive responses so congratulations on a wonderful
occasion! Thank you for the
opportunity to be a part of
Pasko sa Nayon. I really enjoyed myself all throughout
and hope I can help you out
more next year now that I
know what is involved in the
overall process.” - Clarissa
“Just heard that Pasko
yesterday was awesome.
Well done!” - Alex
“Who is the violin player?
Pwede ba siya sa weddings?
– Anonymous
“ We w a n t t o i n v i t e
Sanghimig Choir to
the Knox Multicultural Festival next year. Who’s the
contact?” – Cynthia
The Pasko Sa Nayon Community Concert was born
from the vision of a group of
bold bayanihan volunteers
(BACNI). The group wanted
to revive Filipino Christmas
in Melbourne thus in 2007,
the first Pasko Concert was
held where the early Filipinos in the 1930s gathered,
which is at the Lower Melbourne Town Hall. In 2008, Pasko’s Christmas
Under the Stars involved
Filo seniors and children
making parols from recycled
materials shipped from a
disadvantaged community
in the Philippines. The lanterns were taken home by
delighted families after the
concert. For 2009, BACNI, the Angklung Bamboo Ensemble and
Pasko performers produced
the gen2gen Christmas cds
which were gifted to concert
attendees and the elderly.
In 2010, BACNI partnered
with mainstream art organisations Kultour and The
Substation in bringing Filo
artist Alwin Reamillo and his
Bamboo Helicopter artworks
to Australia for Pasko’s Simbang Gabi Concert. In 2011, the Pasko theme of
Tradisyon featured a Filipina
classical singer, a rondalla
string ensemble, young FilOz Idol singers, a choir and
folk dancers.
The 2012 Pasko Concert
was themed “Christmas for
All, Near and Far”. Here
folk dances, carols, gospel
hymns and kundiman love
melodies were showcased
for the people we love, both
near and far. Over 325 people
attended on the night and
enjoyed the Christmas celebration.
Credit and heartfelt
gratitude to
the following
for making this
concert possible
this year: Mila
Cichello (Event
Coordinator);
Julian Belisario
(Musical Director); Sanghimig
Choir (for inspiration); Pio Lavilla (Graphics);
Peter Cichello (sponsors);
Freddie Angie & Leong Family; Terry & Boy Apines;
Bayanihan Aust Community
Network Inc; Fil Aust Friendship Assoc of Geelong Inc;
Pilipino Elderly Assoc of
South East Region Inc; Fil
Silayan Dance Academy;
Melb Integrated Sports Club
Inc; City of Melbourne;
Fed Square staff; Arise
Baptist Church (Doveton);
PhilTimes, PinoyTV, SBS
Radio & other media; Phil
Consulate (Vic); Fil Camera
Club of Melbourne; Cumberland Manor Aged Care;
government reps; and ticket
sellers.
Our thanks to sponsors and
donors: Vic Multicultural
Commission, Fed Square,
Philippine Tours, City Hearing, Jamieson Retreat, Channel 31; Papa Bear Bakeshop,
Lasang Pinoy (St Albans);
anonymous donors; all volunteers, guests, sponsors and
wonderful performers who
share the greatest bayanihan
gift every year - the gift of
self. Maraming salamat po!
Photos by Hector Calara
and Joey Valdez
Pasko sa Nayon 2012
Concert Performers at the
Federation Square
14
CELEBRATING 22 YEARS www.philtimes.com.au the philippine times JANUARY 2013
Filipino Fiesta 2012 celebrates
Philippine heritage
Earvin Charles B. Cabalquinto
The Filipinos, wherever
they are in the world, have
always thrived on camaraderie, hospitality and creativity in showcasing the rich
traditions and cultures of
their homeland. Held at the
Exhibition Pavilion at the
Melbourne Showgrounds
on 24 to 25 November 2012,
a two-day Filipino Fiesta
was organised by the Philippine Fiesta of Victoria, Inc.
to delight locals, expats and
Filipinos with the Philippine’s heritage.
I was just four-day old in
Melbourne to do my PhD
when I attended the event.
Darwin Manubag, Council
President of the Filipino
Australian Student Council
of Victoria (FASTCO), invited me to volunteer for the
two-day event. And in just
a few hours of engagement
with my kababayans, I felt
at home.
Packed with a string of
fun-filled activities and backto-back exhibits,
the Fiesta 2012
was topped with
artistry and authenticity. I was
delighted to watch
the kids go crazy
over traditional
Philippine games
such as the “pukpok palayok” (Hit
the Hanging Pot)
while I found the
wrestling match to
be heart-stopping.
Meanwhile, the
parade wowed me
especially upon seeing men
and women of different
races in their glamorous and
intricate Barong and Saya.
Witnessing the participation of different Filipino
organisations in Australia
was inspiring too.
The performances on
stage were also a spectacular sight not to miss.
Philippine folk dances
such as Tinikling and
song numbers entertained
the audiences. On top of
that, Filipino celebrities Dulce, Tia Pusit and
Shirley Fuentes stormed
the audience with song
numbers and interactive
banters.
While everyone was
kept entertained, a selection of scrumptious
Filipino cuisine such
as lumpiang sariwa,
paksiw na lechon,
dinuguan, laing, and a
Photos by the Filipino Camera Club of Melbourne
lot more were on sale. There
were also authentic Filipino
desserts such as suman,
bibingka, leche flan, and
halo-halo to treat sweets
lovers.
Various companies were
also present to not only
provide assistance to customers, but were generous
enough to contribute in
the festivity by offering
cool promotions and great
giveaways.
Remarkably, informative
charts and exhibits were
displayed to showcase the
growing tourism of the
Philippines. While there
were displays of Sto. Nino
and the Belen to reflect
the religiosity of the nation, to see a jeepney on
the grounds provided more
space to rekindle the priceless and fun experiences in
the Philippines.
Indeed, the Filipino Fiesta
didn’t only showcase the
opulent wonders of the Philippines, but it also gathered
and united the Filipinos
to celebrate their distinctive identity – talented and
resilient - despite being away
from home.
15
JANUARY 2013 the philippine times www.philtimes.com.au CELEBRATING 22 YEARS
30 year of Philippine Fiesta
th
Darwin Manubag
The Philippine Fiesta
of Victoria continues to
promote and preserve the
Filipino customs and traditions and to project to the
m a i n s t r e a m Au s t r a l i a n
community its arts and
cultural identity. From its
humble beginning in 1979
with a fiesta celebration
at the Caribbean Garden
hosted by the UP Association, the Philippine Fiesta
was formally organised in
1982 in Footscray. Since
then, it was staged in different places in the past
to include Monee Ponds,
Albert Park, Laverton and
Flemington. In recent
years, the Fiesta has been
held at the Melbourne
Showgrounds.
Now on it’s 30 th year,
the event was graced by
no less than Aida Garcia,
Chairperson of the Filipino
Communities Council of
Australia (FILCCA), Hon.
Bill Shorten, Member for
Maribyrnong, Mr. Andrew
Elsbury, Member for Western Metropolitan Region,
and Hon. Gigi Kalong of
the Philippine Consulate
of Victoria. This year’s
theme is “Bukas
Bisig” (Open Arms), which
is anchored on the timehonoured Filipino value of
volunteerism.
Th e i n f l u x o f p e o p l e
at the Melbourne Showgrounds indicated one
thing--that the Philippine
Fiesta in Melbourne is
already an institution in
itself. Despite the many
issues that confronted the
Management Committee,
the fiesta was celebrated
with the usual excitement,
fun, and glamour.
One of the highlights
is the Philippine Fiesta
Parade participated in by
the different associations
and groups in Victoria. The
fiesta also showcased local
Filipino talents such as
Daniel Ross, Anna Marie,
Michelle Smith, Melanie
Cristine Balagtas, Maria
Paz Barcenas, Deena, Czarina Lapus, Joey Santos,
Grace Iwasaki, Raul Roxas,
Charlane Sotelo among
others mixed with great
talents from the Philippines like Mica, Asia’s Diva
Dulce, Shirley Fuentes and
Tia Pusit. Cultural Dances
were also
Filipino
tesy of the
Photos cour
bourne.
el
M
of
ub
Camera Cl
Ron Diocera is a Melbourne based
Filipino photographer who specializes
in weddings, engagements, events and
portraiture photography.
You can view some of his works
at www.rondiocera.com.au
Mobile 0405921433 or
email rondiocera@gmail.com
presented by Gintong Kultura Group, SPAG Cultural
Dance Troupe, FAABI Cultural Dance Troupe among
others.
Excitement was upped
with the Talent Competition of the Philippine Fiesta
Beauty Quest 2012, Galing
Talent Search ng Pinoy
2012–a singing competition, and the Philippine
Fiesta Raffle. A Filipino
mass marked the second
day of the festival and
was officiated by Father
Loi CM.
O ver-all, th e festival
went well. Pinoys who
were new to the experience were thankful to the
organisers for a job well
done. The Pinoys are now
looking forward to a more
festive Philippine Fiesta
next year, which promises
to feature more streetdancing, Filipino traditional
games, diverse costumes
from the different islands
and displays on Philippine
tourist attractions.
16
CELEBRATING 22 YEARS www.philtimes.com.au the philippine times JANUARY 2013
Fiesta parade highlights 2012
Philippine Fiesta of Victoria
Manny Asuncion
More than 40 FilipinoAu s t r a l i a n c o m m u n i t y
organisations in Victoria,
Australia joined the annual
Fiesta parade during the 30th
Fiesta Celebration on 25
November 2012 at the Exhibition Pavilion, Melbourne
Showgrounds.
The parade was led by the
vibrant Ati-Atihan group of
the Samahan ng mga Pilipino
sa Gippsland (SPAG) and
the officers of the Philippine
Fiesta Management Committee, followed by the different
Filipino-Community associations in Victoria and the Miss
and Mrs Philippine Fiesta
Beauty Quest candidates. The
parade was also participated
in by the officers and members
of the Filipino Communities
Council of Australia (FILCCA)
headed by its chairperson,
Ms. Aida Garcia.
The parade collectively
concretized the spirit of the
Fiesta’s theme Bukas Bisig or
Welcome. Every association
in the Filipino Australian
community in Victoria was
invited to participate in the
parade. Over 300 people happily joined this annual parade,
the longest ever in the history
of the Philippine Fiesta.
Unlike the previous Fiestas, this event was marked
by beautiful sunny weather
which contributed immensely
to the 2-day jovial celebration. Many arrived in festive
moods, chatting with relatives
and friends and catching up
with the news.
The cavernous Exhibition Pavilion bedecked with
multi-coloured banderitas
or mini buntings , was filled
with revellers not only from
Victoria but visitors coming
from different states of Australia: savouring tasty Filipino
food and drinks and enjoying
Filipino dance, music and
cultural exhibitions.
Filipina song diva, Dulce
wowed the audience with
her powerful rendition of
a number Filipino songs,
especially Ako ang Nagwagi,
which is her signature song.
Beauteous Shirley Fuentes
and veteran comedian Tiya
Pusit graced the occasion.
The two-day program really showcased the talents of
Filipino-Australians in Melbourne by the Gintong Galing
Singing Competition and a
number of Filipino song-anddance performances.
Hon Gigi Kalong, the Philippine Consul General of
Victoria, commended the
Philippine Fiesta as one of the
uniting factors in cementing a
good relationship among the
burgeoning Filipino-Australian community organisations
in Victoria and a very effective
vehicle in promoting the
culture, language history,
values and traditions of the
Filipino people.
Hon Bill Shorten, representative of the prime minister
of Australia and Minister
Financial Services and Superannuation, praised the Fiesta
for its invaluable cultural contribution to the multi-cultural
Australian society.
Other speakers were Mr Jing
Sosa, the chairperson of the
Filipino Community Council of Victoria; Mrs Marina
Garcia-Ruivivar, the founder
of the Filipino Community
Council of Victoria and one of
the pioneers of the Philippine
Fiesta and Mrs Sherlita Hart,
the chairperson of the Filipino
Community of Ballarat.
After the speeches, Hon
Gigi Kalong had the honor of
cutting the ribbon and flanked
by the officers and members
of the Philippine Fiesta to
mark the formal opening of
the two-day festivity.
Other features of the
Fiesta were the colourful
performance of the Sinulog
by the Halad Group and the
time-honoured Flores de
Mayo and Santacruzan with
their full religious pageantry
- complete with a number of
beautiful reynas or queens in
their dazzling gowns, dashing
escorts and floral arches - all
in coordination with Filipino
Community of Lara and the
Philippine Miss and Mrs Fiesta Beauty Quest 2012. There
was a traditional pabitin after
the Santacruzan initiated by
the Don Bosco Association of
Melbourne.
People flocked to see the
cultural exhibit area mounted
by the Filipino Camera Club
of Melbourne (FCCM) and
the Ilonggo Association of
Victoria. The exhibit featured
the photos of the previous
Fiesta Management Committees, Filipino clothing
and artefacts, different Santo
Nino icons, the past winners
of the Miss and Mrs Philippine Fiesta Beauty Quest
and the private collections
of Don Belardo resonating
with Philippine history and
culture.
A three-minute video
about the Philippine Fiesta
of Victoria produced by the
Filipino Camera Club of
Melbourne (FCCM) was
regularly flashed across
the big screen during the
two-day festival. Interested
attendees had their glamour
shots taken by the FCCM for
a minimum fee.
Ross Manuel, the Philippine Fiesta chairperson,
delivered the closing remarks - thanking all individuals, volunteers, families,
business enterprises and
Filipino-Australian community organisations for making
the Fiesta possible.
Wi t h t h e c o m m e n t s
gathered from people who
attended this year’s Philippine Fiesta celebration, most
agreed that this Fiesta was
one of the most successful
fiestas ever held in Victoria.
“Talagang babalik uli ako
sa Fiesta sa isang taon!” (I
will definitely return to the
Fiesta year!), quipped one of
the satisfied attendees.
FCCM - Photography Service
We accept Photography jobs on behalf of our Expert
Photographer members.
 Events - Wedding, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Group
Party, Hen's night, Dinner and Dance
 Portrait Studio / Outdoor (Glamour, Fantasy,
Model Portfolio)
Please contact :
Hector Calara - 0450523554
Isabel Antonio - 0423800888
Photos courtesy of the Filipino
Camera Club of Melbourne.
17
JANUARY 2013 the philippine times www.philtimes.com.au CELEBRATING 22 YEARS
Photos courtesy of the Filipino
Camera Club of Melbourne.
Winners of the Miss and Mrs
Philippine Fiesta of Victoria 2012
Miss Philippine Fiesta of Victoria 2012- Miss
Kyra Re
Miss Charity Winner 2012 - Miss Kyra Re
First Runner Up - Miss Ranilynne Acao
Second Runner Up -Miss Cheryl Day
Third Runner Up -Miss Jennifer Anciano
Best in Talent - Ranilynne Acao
Best in Filipiniana Gown- Ranilynne Acao
Best in Evening Gown - Ranilynne Acao
Miss Photogenic -Miss cheryl day
Miss Friendship - Miss Jennifer Anciano
Best in Presentation Night - MIss Kyra Re
Mrs Philippine Fiesta of Victoria 2012 - Mrs
Gina Tolentino
Mrs Charity 2012 - Mrs Miane Attard
Best in Talent - Gina Tolentino
Best in Filipiniana Gown - Gina Tolentino
Best in Evening Gown - Gina Tolentino
Mrs Friendship 2012 - Mrs Dolores Pritchard
Mrs Photogenic - Mrs Dolores Pritchard
Best in Presentation Night - Mrs Miane
Attard
18
CELEBRATING 22 YEARS www.philtimes.com.au the philippine times JANUARY 2013
Shapes and Shades
of Philippine Fiesta
The photos here are finalists of The Philippine
Times' Philippine Fiesta
2012 Photo Competition.
Around 40 members of the
Filipino Camera Club of
Melbourne have participated in the photo contest.
The photo competition was
initiated by the Philippine
Times in cooperation with
the Filipino Camera Club
of Melbourne (FCCM) and
sponsored by Philippine
Tours. Ronald Diocera's
entry "Pintados", a photo
of three teenagers who are
members of an Ati-atihan
group, was awarded Best
Photo.
Gigi Kalong, Director of
Philippine Tours, has kindly
donated $1,000 travel
voucher for the winning
entry.
Photo by Gilvertt Concepcion
Photo by Kevin Laranang
Photo by Ronald Diocera
Photo by
Joey Vald
ez Jr.
Photo by Fy
ke Roque
Photo by Arthur Perez
e
ocesso Loqu
Photo by Pr
Photo by Audie de La Peña
Photo by Ronald Diocera
19
JANUARY 2013 the philippine times www.philtimes.com.au CELEBRATING 22 YEARS
Diocera wins Philippine Times' Planning session
of Filipino Camera
Fiesta Photo Competition
Club of Melbourne
12-13 January 2013
Philippine Honorary Consul
General Gigi Kalong and owner
of Philippine Tours, awards to
Ronald Diocera a travel voucher
worth $1,000 as his winning
prize for the Philippine Times’
Fiesta Photo Contest. Looking
on are (l-r) George Gregorio,
Philippine Times online
Publisher; Emmanuel Santos,
FCCM Grandmaster, and Hector
Calara, FCCM President.
s.
ing his view
Mannix shar
The famed
da".
titled "Pinta
ning photo
in
w
's
ra
ce
Ronald Dio
FCCM members conduct more planning.
Photos by: Arthur Perez
EMG SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT NETWORK
Filipino Camera Club of Melbourne.
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20
CELEBRATING 22 YEARS www.philtimes.com.au the philippine times JANUARY 2013
One December night for Kabaleyans
Mike Venezuela
Finally, the night for
“kabaleyans” came last
8 December 2012 at the
Grand Star Receptions in
Altona North when 220
or so members and guests
from the Pangasinenses
organisation in Victoria
came to share an evening of
camaraderie and friendship.
The three-year-old organisation aimed to bring together
Victorians, who originally
hailed from the province of
Pangasinan.
The night’s programme
commenced with outgoing
secretary, Roger Noveloso
welcoming guests and
friends. This was followed
by a Christmas message and
prayer from Pastor Ernie
Cartas. A sumptuous threecourse-meal was served to
attendees as they watched
a video on Pangasinan’s
tourist attractions.
Florence Cowl and Aliya
Adonis entertained the
crowd while the raffle draws
sustained the excitement
all throughout the evening.
The singing of the Christmas
carols led by the night’s chorister, Gene Prado brought
the spirit of Christmas into
everyone’s hearts.
After Vice President Ferdie Lopez acknowledged
all donors, dancing seemed
to be the order of the night
as the dance floor filled to
overflow with warm bodies
grooving to the beat of Gangnam Style remixes from RJ’s
Classic DJs
of Rowan &
Jason Todio.
Well-loved
d a n c e
instructor
Chris Centeno led the
line dancing
with old and
young alike
sharing the
dance floor.
The night
was made
President Raffy Prado
Secretary Roger Noveloso
even more special by the
tango presentation of lovely
couple Roberto and Marie
and the romantic ballad
rendered by Justin Abella.
Vice President Lopez and
Incoming Secretary Mike
Venezuela presented Certificates of Appreciation
to President Rafael Prado,
outgoing treasurer, Imelda
Isla and outgoing secretary,
Roger Noveloso.
This amazing night was
aptly capped by an inspiring
closing remark from President Prado who thanked
everyone for gracing the occasion. The event’s success
was made possible through
the fantastic work of emcees,
Justin Abella and Rochelle
Noveloso.
Members and friends of Pangasinenses of Victoria.
Feast of
Sto. Nino
(Sinulog)
St Peter Apostle, Hoppers
Crossing - Filipino Mass
Couples for Christ Australia’s Handmaids of the Lord and friends meet with Fr Loi
Viovicencio's parents (seated) who are currently in Australia. (Photo by Maria Nenette
Martin Incoul)
Organised by the Filipino Mass Committee of
St Peter Apostle Hoppers Crossing
Join in the celebration of our Feast of Sto Niño
(Child Jesus) and dance with us to the beat of
Ati-Atihan.
BINGHAY & CO PTY. LTD.
Procession starts at 11.30am.
January 27, 201311:30am
11 Dandenong Road East, Frankston VIC 3199
1/28 Pickett Street, Footscray VIC 3011
Contact: Art Cortez 0430716928
and Sally Dela Pena 0402 893 983
Accountant & Tax Agent
Purita Binghay, MBA, CPA
also a Registered Migration Agent
MARN 9791593
Ph. 9770 0066 Fax: 9770 0466
Mob: 0404 495 830
email: purita@binghayco.com.au
21
JANUARY 2013 the philippine times www.philtimes.com.au CELEBRATING 22 YEARS
Pit Senyor!
Filipino-Australians celebrated Sinulog last 13 January 2012 at St Peter Chanel
Parish in Deer Park. The
Sinulog is an annual festival
in Cebu City and Maasin
City, Southern Leyte, Philippines to commemorate
the Bisayan people's pagan
origin, and their acceptance
of Roman Catholicism.
Sinulog is a street parade
with participants in bright
coloured costumes dancing
to the rhythm of drums,
trumpets and native gongs. It
honours the
Santo Niño
and participants
bring with
them their
Sto Nino
statues.
(Photos
by Rolly
Ferrer)
Dr. Dalisay Santos Sibal
DISDentalSurgeryPtyLtd
Branches
Dr. David Rivadillo
PrincipalDentist(ADCͲAus)
Melbourne University Graduate
1. Addr :104EastEsplanadeStAlbans
Graduate with Honor
Dr.DavidRivadillo
Dr. Lincoln Loi Ph :039356Ͳ 4809
MelbourneUniversityGraduate
2. Addr :LavertonDentalClinic
Melbourner University Graduate
GraduatewithHono
Dr. Ruchi AgarwalShop1– 8NevilleAve.Laverton
Dr.LincolnLoi
ADC (Aus), Periodontist in India
Ph :039369Ͳ 8585
MelbourneUniversityGraduate
Services we offer: 3.Addr :GoodSmileDentalSurgery
Dr.Ruchi Agarwal
General
Dentistry
ADC(Aus),Periodontist
( ),
inIndia and Orthodontics
Newly Opened !!!!!!
NewlyOpened!!!!!!
DIS Dental
Surgery Pty LtdAddr
Branches
:204HeathsRdHoppersCrossing
Servicesweoffer:
104 East Esplanade St Albans • Ph : Ph
03 93564809 7688
:039748Ͳ
GeneralDentistryandOrthodontics
Principal Dentist (ADC-Aus)
Dr.DalisaySantosSibal
Laverton Dental Clinic • Shop 1 – 8 Neville Ave. Laverton •
Ph: 03 9369- 8585
Good Smile Dental Surgery
Newly Opened !!!!!!
204 Heaths Rd Hoppers Crossing • Ph : 03 9748- 7688
Sinulog of Melbourne
2013
Sponsored by:
Australian Visayan Association
of Victoria, Inc
Sunday, January 20, 2013
1:00pm until 5:00pm
Namatjira Park, Springs Road, Clayton
South (Melway Ref. 79 A5)
A Holy Mass will be celebrated first at
1pm at St. Andrew's Church,
Clayton South followed by food and
entertainment at the nearby
Namatijira Park.
CLASSIFIEDS
22
CELEBRATING 22 YEARS www.philtimes.com.au the philippine times JANUARY 2013
classifieds www.philtimes.com
TO PLACE AN AD
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biz.social.guide
Accountants,
Auditors & Tax
Agents
Binghay & Co P/L
Contact: Purita Binghay
11 Dandenong Road East,
Frankston VIC 3199
Phone (03) 9770 0066
Fax (03) 9770 0466
Email: purita@binghayco.com.au
JOEY S. SANTOS &
ASSOCIATES
PO Box 394 Hampton Park
VIC 3976
63B Springs Rd, Clayton
South VIC 3169
JY Accounting
Services
MLV ACCOUNTING
Contact: Josie Young
15 Clover Close, Berwick
Vic 3806
Other Branches: Berwick,
Melton and Trafalgar
Mobile 0435 353 061
Email: jsyoung@internode.on.net
Personal (Rental/CGT) & Business
Tax (GST/ABN).
Mabag
Accounting
and Taxation
Services
Advertise in this section
(03) 9369 4324
STEPHEN LE
COUILLIARD &
ASSOCIATES
PUBLIC
Phone 03 9759 5075 ACCOUNTANTS
Contact: Michael Venezuela
CPA
PO Box 2949, Rowvillle
Victoria 3178
Mobile 0412 329 378 Contact: Stephen
Email: michael_venezuela@yahoo.
com.au
Registered tax agent. Qualified Accountant – CPA Australia
UP Diliman – BS Business Administration & Accountancy
All accounting and taxation services.
WE COME TO YOU. By appointment only.
Post an event.
Contact: Manuel Mabag,
fipa, M.Comm
Phone (03) 9558 6803 14 Bendemere Rise,
Langwarrin, VIC 3910
Fax
(03) 9540 0691
Mobile 0407 547 098 Ph/Fax (03) 9789 9119
Email: jotesco@netspace.net.au
Mobile 0438 789 911
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ACCOUNTING
& TAXATION SERVICES
Auto Mechanical
Repairs
Vega Steel
Works
Spot On Tyres
and Auto
Maker of Steel Str uctural and
Architectural, Pergolas, Carports,
Garage, Stainless and Mild Steel
Balustrade, Fences, Gates, Sheet
Metal, Tanks, Conveyor etc.
You draw or tell us what you want, and
we’ll make it for you at a fair price.
Phone: (03) 9704 7661
Fax:
(03) 9796 6711
Email: stephen@bestaccountants. Contact: Ernie Vilbar
com.au
Website: www.bestaccountants.
com.au
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Eastern Melbourne
Driving School
Factory 3, 17 Libbett
Avenue,
Clayton South, Vic, 3168
Email: vilbar@vegasteelworks.com.au
READ THE LATEST
FILO NEWS
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New and Used Tyres, Repairs and
Services.
Bakeries
AND CAKES
Contact: Cora or Joyce
19 Chiswick Crescent
Derrimut VIC 3030
masarap bakery
and asian
grocery
Contact: Vinia or Baby
178 Churchill Avenue,
Braybrook VIC 3019
Phone (03) 9311 1096
For specialty Filipino bakery products:
Pan de sal/pan de coco/ensaymada/
hopia/ monay and lots more.
Bakeries and
Take-away
JOLLY B’S BAKERY
& TAKEAWAY
Contact: Peter/Carina/Alex
123 Lower Dandenong
RoadMentone Vic
3194
Phone (03) 9585 7002
Phone (03) 9361 2401 Mobile 0407 958 442
pandesal, ensaymada, SpanMobile 0433 776 720 Special
ish bread-ube, etc./special longSpecialising in all occasion cakes with
different flavours and Filipino bread i.e.,
pandesal, ensaymada, etc.
ganisa - tocino/Filipino culinary
dishes - catering/Asian groceries/
delivery available.
ADVERTISE IN THIS SECTION
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MORTGAGE BROKER
$VSSFOUMZPóDFTMJCSBSJFTDPNNVOJUZ
DFOUSFBOEQBSJTIPóDF
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"Your journey to safe
driving begins with us."
allsafe xp
Contact: Susan
Phone 1300 365 503
(03) 9689 2855
Fast and secure bank-to-bank or
door-to-door money transfer to the
Philippines.
Beauty Salons
ANGIE’S BEAUTY
SALON
Contact: Angie
Shop 12 / 51 Synnot Street
Werribee Vic 3030
Phone 9 7 4 1 4 4 1 4
Mobile 0425 756 094
Trading Hours: 10:30 a.m. to 5:00
p.m., Tuesday to Sunday. Appointment advisable. Friendly Service.
Friendly Price.
LITO MANANDIC
HAIR AND MAKE-UP
ARTIST
Reg. No. B1802613K
Contact: Lito
17 Nullawil Street,
Springvale Vic 3171
Services: Hair Colouring,Styling,
Straightening, Perming, Re-bonding,
Make-up, Manicure-pedicure.
“APPOINTMENTS ARE ESSENTIAL”
Contact: Ben Bolano
Mobile: 0408 543 554
Phone: (03) 9795 1834
Taxation
• Personal Tax Return $85*
• Students 20% discount
• Business Tax Return
• Self Managed Superfunds
• Capital Gain Tax
Bank-to-Bank
Money Transfer
Phone (03) 9547 3239
Mobile 0402 775 939
"MTPCleaning Contractor
JAG Driving School
MANILA HAIR BY
BUENA
Contact: BUENA
45 A Yarra Street
Geelong Vic 3220
Phone 5 2 2 9 9 7 2 7
Email: manilahairbybuena@gmail.com
Services: Haircuts,Foils, Re-bonding,
Perm , Hair SPA/Treatments, Colouring,
Styling, Hair Extensions, Waxing.
Open Monday - Saturday
Submit an article
Email alice@philtimes.com
GROCERY STORES
NURSING AGENCY
Also sells frozen
products, fresh fruits
and vegetables
*Basic tax returns
Danber Financial Services
Reg / Aida 0413 199 344
Sharmini 03 9794 8108
Mike-Your Mobile
Tax Agent
MLV Accounting
Contact: Joe
Misolas
Mobile: 0409-590-850
Email: jmisolas@bigpond.net.au
ACCOUNTING & TAXATION SERVICES
Contact: Michael
Venezuela CPA
PO Box 2949, Rowvillle
Victoria 3178
Phone 03 9759 5075
Mobile 0412 329 378
Email: michael_venezuela@yahoo.com.au
Registered tax agent.
Qualified Accountant – CPA Australia
UP Diliman – BS Business Administration
& Accountancy
All accounting and taxation services.
WE COME TO YOU. By appointment
JRJ Corporate Advisory
Services Pty Ltd ABN 49 100 180 747
Chartered Accountant Registered Tax Agent
PT 04/10
Tax returns, Tax planning, management consulting, audit
and assurance, and related business needs. Your partner in
Wealth Creation and Asset Protection.
For personal and complete business services, please contact:
Loreto Resubal - 0425 751 281
Phone (03) 9311 4838
Mobile 0422 830 992
E M
Accounting
• Bookkeeping $30 p/h
• BAS
• Budgeting and Cash flows
Email: info@jrj.com.au Website: www.jrj.com.au
Supporting your local Rotary Community and Sports Clubs.
Contact: Efren Callos
10 Berkshire Road,
Sunshine Vic 3020
Mobile 0 4 0 5 5 5 0 0 4 5 JASMINE’S BREAD
Ph/Fax 0 3 9 5 1 2 6 2 6 8
Log on to
DRIVING SCHOOL
t:PVSMPDBMESJWJOHTDIPPMBU
4PVUI&BTUFSOTVCVSCT
t"DDSFEJUFEESJWJOHJOTUSVDUPS
t#FHJOOFSPWFSTFBTMJDFODF
DIBOHFPWFS
t'SFFBTTFTTNFOU4BNHBOBJT
NBHDPOWFSUOHLBOJMBOH
PWFSTFBTMJDFODF
5BXBHMBOHQP
Accounting and Taxation
471 Princes Highway, Narre
Warren Vic 3805
Aluminium & Steel
Fabrication
ALUMINIUM WINDOWS & DOORS
Shop 10
Lalor Plaza Shopping Centre
22 McKimmies Rd, Lalor 3075
Contact:
Roy & Imee Pabustan
Phone/Fax: (03) 9464 7474
Mobile: 0402 011 402
RECRUITING NURSES
RING MARITHES - 0432 595 660
EMAIL: marithes.dumapias@gmail.com
P.O. BOX 373, SUNSHINE VIC 3020
GROCERIES
jANUARY 2013 the philippine times CELEBRATING 22 YEARS
Blinds and Curtains AARON’S
LUXCEL BLINDS
Contact: Jenny or Doreen
Factory and Showroom
13 Waigani Avenue
Deer Park Vic 3023
COMPUTER
SERVICES
PC Repairs and Upgrades / Hardware
and Software Installations
PC Reformat / Assembly of new computer that suits your budget
+ Bonus Music and Movies for your
PC if you’re interested.
Phone: (03) 8390 1121 Contact: Aaron on 0433
076 276 for a free
Fax: (03) 8390 1158
Email: info@luxcel.com.au
Web: www.luxcel.com.au
All types of blinds/Roller and Plantation Shutters
Security Doors/Free Measure and
Quotes
Buy Factory Direct and Save
Café Shop
JACE’S 101 CAFÉ
Contact: Alison Proprietor/ Chris –
Manager / Elvie
101 Hudson’s Road
Spotswood Vic 3012
Phone 9 3 9 9 5 1 7 2
Mobile 0402 114 215
consultation.
“Your local Filipino computer expert”
Computer Systems
and Network Security
Linucom
Solutions
Australia
Contact: Jun Zara, Senior
Linux Engineer
P.O. Box 2083 Greenvale,
Vic 3059
DJs &/or Dance
Instructor/
Choreographer
Driving Schools
ETHIC DANCE –
MY MOBILE DJ
SERVICE
215-217 Sydney Road,
Coburg Vic 3058
Driving School
Contact: Cecilia Pham
Email: cotocuv@yahoo.com.au
Web: www.ethicdance.com.au
Audio and Visual -16th,18th and 21st
Birthdays, School Functions, Children
Parties, Clubs & Dance Parties, and
Corporate Functions.
G’S IT COMPUTER
REPAIRS
Western Dental
Care Pty. Ltd.
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(03) 9361 2166
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0403 717 820
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ARCHITECTS
Phone (03) 9543 5507
Mobiles 0413 462 389
0400 331 152
Email: moonlightdriving@dodo.com
Email: lolitaadsl@dodo.com.au
Over 22 years experience as a driving
instructor.
Keys2drive accredited driving instructor (log to keys2drive.com.au for a
free lesson)
R.M.M. DRIVING
SCHOOL
LBC HARI NG
PADALA
Gov’t Accredited Cert. III & IV
Unit 4, 51-53 Westwood
Drive, Ravenhall
Vic 3023
Phone 1800 522 0000
Sea freight / Air Freight / Money Remittance Services.
Contact: Rowen Maranan
P.O. Box 1055, Preston VIC
3072
Place CLASSIFIED ADS here and get
FREE classified ad listing in the online
edition
of The Philippine Times.
For details, email ads@philtimes.com
Email: mettheprofessional@gmail.com
All types of electrical/domestic works.
Aircondition & Digital TV Antennas
Installation.
48 Wilson Road, Melton
South Vic 3338
Entertainment
Services
Email: angelquiapo@aol.com.au
Web: www.angelquiapo.com.au
Asian Filipino Grocery/Money Remittance/Phonecards/TFC subscription/
Balikbayan Boxes/Tagalog DVDs/
Frozen-Dry Goods.
Mobile 0430 006 095
Contact: Liz or Mike
16 Marriot Road, Keilor
Downs Vic 3038
Phone (03) 9557 0733
Mobile 0413 449 058
Email: cruznbabe1@hotmail.com
SPECIALISING IN WOMEN’S CLOTHING
PT 11/10
OPEN:
Contact: Ernie or Lani
56 Spring Square, Hallam
Vic 3803
Ph/Fax (03) 9796 4289
Mobile 0478 145 711
Magnolia Ice Cream Outlet/Door to
door money transfer
Air/sea cargo/ Prepaid phonecards/
Filipino movies for hire.
FOR RENT
(PHILIPPINES)
ONE (1)
BEDROOM
FURNISHED CONDO UNIT IN
CUBAO, CLOSE
TO SHOPS &
SCHOOL, SHORT
OR LONG TERM
PAUL:
0404 861 055
Phone (03) 9746 9193
Mobile 0449 781 139 FILIMEX ASIAN
ASIAN-OZ
GROCERIES
Contact: Jovita Stevens
35 Michel Street,
Shepparton Vic 3630
HOUSE & LOT
FOR SALE
(PHILIPPINES)
3 BRs, 2 toilets,
fully furnished,
25mins. away
to SM Fairview,
flood-free area,
PhP 2.9mil cash/
negotiable
contact:
Jose/Susie
mobile: 0410 999 574
/ 0404 336 900
INDAY FILIPINO
ASIAN STORE
Contact: Stella Plotek
Shop 121, Footscray
Market, Hopkins Street
Footscray Vic
Phone (03) 9689 0188
The BIGGEST Filipino Discount Store
in the Western Suburbs since 1977.
UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT.
KABSAT VARIETY
STORE
Contact: Josie Sotelo
Shop 3, 167/179 Shaws
Road
Werribee Vic 3030
Contact: Chona
STORE AND CAFE
Contact: Grace
229 Melville Rd, Brunswick
West VIC 3055
Phone (03) 9386 2948
Mobile 0425 808 108
Phone 9974 2795
Mobile 0430 387 989
Email: kabsatvarietystore@gmail.
com
Filipino/Asian Products/Whitening
products (glutathione)
Foodwarmers/Gel, Balikbayan Boxes/
Money Remittance
Phonecards/Proper ty agent (Phil)/
European cookware/Health-Beauty
Products
FILOZZIES GROCER Leny’s Grocery
Contact: Mabelle
Shop 8, 323 Main Road
East, St. Albans
VIC 3021 (behind
Safeway)
Cargo / Phone Cards / Cosmetics /
Aloe Vera Products
CRAIGIEBURN
ASIAN GROCERY
Contact: Grace or Anne
Shop 6, Craigieburn Plaza,
Craigieburn Road,
Craigieburn VIC 3064
Phone (03) 8339 7439
Email: mabel10@iprimus.com.au
Open 7 days / wide variety of Fil-Asian
products / cheaper prices / quality
service / check us on Facebook
CRAIGIEBURN ASIAN GROCERY
Filipino delicacies, door-to-door sea/
air cargo, money remittance (higher
rates), video rental (Tagalog movies)
The Philippine
Times
Celebrating 22
years
Preferred partner of
advertisers
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
BAKER’S ASSISTANT
COMPUTER REPAIRS
Contact: Leny Laysa
Shop 15 B, 15-23
Langhorne Street,
Dandenong Vic 3175
PT 1110
PHONE: (03) 9312 2222
FAX: (03) 9310 1900
CESAR -0433 647 728
JAIME - 0431 643 624
OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK / FREE DELIVERY
jj.bryers@bigpond.com
DOOR-TO-DOOR SERVICE
MANILA IN
FOOTSCRAY
Contact: Vivian
Shop 14, 119 Hopkins St,
Footscray VIC 3011
(Leeds St entrance)
Phone (03) 9689 7237
Fax (03) 9689 3800
Mobile 0423 224 224
Welars Express Money Remittance /
Door-to-door Cargo / Prepaid Phonecards / DVD Movies for sale.
ManileÑa Filipino
Asian Grocery
Opportunity to join Melbourne’s
oldest sourdough bakery (Carlton).
Good cooking skills required, bakery
experience would be an advantage
together with a dedication to
develop excellent baking skills.
Contact John Bryers 0417 345845
or forward c.v. to
“Wrecking Most Makes and Models….
Also Import Most Japanese Parts”
131 CRANWELL STREET, BRAYBROOK VIC 3019
Call Now: 0400 705 117
Price neg: “walk-in, walk-out”
Angel sa Quiapo
Contact: Fay Matheson
410 Centre Road, Bentleigh
Vic 3204
(NEAR CORNER OF DUKE STREET AND BALLARAT ROAD)
No Direct Competition
Easy to Manage, low Rent, easy Parking,
excellent Customer Base – SE Suburbs
2/12 Linley Street,
Dandenong Vic 3175
Contact: Dori
BABE FASHION
(Bentleigh)
PHONE: (03) 9311 2909 MOBILE: 0421 820 800
EMAIL: papabearbakehouse@yahoo.com.
Asian/Filipino Groceries – For Sale
Email: amycas_52@yahoo.com.au
Door-to-door Sea Cargo and Money
Remittance /Phone Cards / Video Hire/
Clothes & Bags
Fashion for Women
BAKERIES
MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY: 9:00 AM TO 5:30 PM
THURSDAY & FRIDAY: 9:00 AM TO 7:00 PM
SUNDAY: 10 AM to 3:00 PM
Phone (03) 9369 2393
Fax
(03) 9369 2393
Mobile 0434 980 586
ION PTY LTD
giving opportunities to young people.
FILIPINO BREAD, CAKES AND PASTRIES
Fantastic Business
Opportunity
Contact: Amelia
9/161-163 Railway Avenue,
Laverton VIC 3028
AMELIA’s Variety
Store & Asian
Grocery
ERLANI ASIAN
GROCERIES
Contact: Shirley Rivera
391 Chandler Road,
Keysborough Vic 3173
Phone (03) 9798 5389
Mobile 0419 674 339
Email: lolaheart12@yahoo.com
Door-to-door cargo/money remittance/
phonecards/bags/shoes/clothes/wide
range of Asian products.
ADVERTISE IN THIS
SECTION
Email:
ads@philtimes.com
EMPLOYMENT
HOUSEKEEPER NEEDED
3-4 hours daily Moday-Friday. Driver’s license is a
must and references essential. Work includes:
- General house cleaning
- Washing, ironing and putting away all items
- General food preparation
Please call 0412 331 729
BUSINESS FOR SALE
KOREAN HAIR SALON
LALOR PLAZA SEAFOOD
SHOPPING CENTRE
“hair bene”
FRESH SEAFOOD DAILY
15 A / 22 MCKIMMIES ROAD,
LALOR VIC 3075
OPEN 4 ½ DAYS A WEEK:
(TUESDAY TO SATURDAY-HALF DAY)
CONTACT: BE NGUYEN - 0432 497 600
TINH HO - 0402 991 719
23
Ph/Fax (03) 9367 7438 Phone (03) 5831 6586
Mobile 0412 191 577 Fax
(03) 5831 6586
Mobile 0414 623 465
Email: info@lizhoney.com
Mobile 0439 632 949 Phone (03) 9356 4522 Specialising in large range of Asian/
Web: http://www.lizhoney.com
Email: jovita_stevens@yahoo.com
groceries. Door-to-door Cargo.
AH (03) 9367 7818 Filipino
Liz Honey Promotions & Entertainment – Door-to-door Money Remittance – Sea
Open: Monday to Saturday.
11 MARKET PLACE, BRAYBROOK VIC 3019
BUSINESS FOR SALE
Electrical &
Telecommunication
Promotions &
Entertainment
(FILIPINO BAKERY)
BRAYBROOK
AUTO WRECKERS
Door to Door Cargo and Money Remittance. FREE PARKING AT BACK
Phone (03) 9449 5779
Mobile 0414 959 224 Liz Honey
PAPA BEAR BAKEHOUSE
AUTO WRECKERS & PARTS
com.au
Web: www.universalpower.com.au
New Homes / Extensions / Renovations / Service Breakdowns /
Safety Switches / Switchboard
changeovers / Security Cameras and
Home Alarms
Ph/ Fax: (03) 9305 4896 MARCIAL
Leo: 0401 739 802 ELECTRICAL &
Lolit: 0433 573 849 TELECOMMUNICAT-
Dentists
204-206 Station Road Deer
Park VIC 3023
or Manual. Learned by hour or plan.
Serve all suburbs in Western area
and Pascoe Vale, Brunswick, Coburg.
New Car. For more information, please
contact 0411 498 709.
Five Star
Computer Services
CompTIA A+Certified Professional IT
Technician, Microsoft Certified System
Engineer. Computer expert for all your
computer problems. Services: Virus/
Spyware Removal, Hardware Upragrades, Data Recovery-Internet Security,
Build Computer According to your Specification, All you computer needs. 12/10
Contact: JEN OR RAHUL
440 Sydney Road
Brunswick Vic 3056
NIPAHUT CORNER
R.E.C. 19845
Accredited Driver Trainer
No. 021
Contact: LEO OR LOLIT
Balikbayan boxes and Padala Regalo.
Mobile 0433 655 193
UNIVERSAL POWER
SERVICES
MOONLIGHT
DRIVING SCHOOL
Phone (613)9333 6165 Express
Mobile 0415 861 105 Balikbayan Box
Contact: Dr. Nenita
Evangelista-Lalin
Grocery Stores
Door to Door Sea
&/or Air Freight
Services
6 Byron St. Clayton South
Vic 3169
Contact: Gerardo Visperas
Electrical
Contractor
Phone (03) 9381 0433
Mobile 0411 498 709 Contact: Frank and Chris
Email: cecilia.pham@annecto.org.au Phone (03) 9311 5901 Mobile 0433 666 306
Contact: Vasile
Experienced driving instructor will help
0414 344 969 UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT.
Mobile 0433 377 113 you to get your licence. Automatic Mobile
Selling Filipino and Asian Products.
Email: frank@universalpower.
Email: sys_admin@linucomsolutions.net
Web: www.linucomsolutions.net
Services: Network security, firewall,
installation, configuration, System
administration, intranet design, web
hosting, email services, Linux installation, etc.
Email: jaces101@bigpond.com
Catering Available. Booking Required.
Filipino and European Food. Forty (40) Seats Capacity
classifieds www.philtimes.com.au
-cut,color,straightening
perm, make-upopen 9:30 A.M. - 6:00 P.M (Mon-Sat)
TEL.: 9310 9246
“We are the very first Korean hair salon
in the western suburbs.”
Shop3/323 Main Road East St
Albans Vic 3021(behind Safeway)
24
CELEBRATING 22 YEARS the philippine times jANUARY 2013
classifieds www.philtimes.com.au
Lechon
Masagana
Filipino Asian
Groceries
Contact: Terry or Boy
Shop 12 / 159 Boronia Rd
Boronia Vic 3155
Phone (03) 9762 2123
Mobile 0413 844 146
Email: lapines@optusnet.com.au
Large range of Filipino - Asian goods
and seafoods. Door-to-door Cargo and
Money Remittance. Prepaid Phonecards. Under new management.
Melly’s Asian
Groceries
Contact: Melly
Shop 43, Hampton Park
Shopping Square,
Somerville Road,
Hampton Park VIC 3976
Ph/Fax (03) 9799 2565
Money Remittance, Sea cargo Services, Filipino Movies VHS/VCD Hire,
VCD Karaoke Hire/Sales, Phonecards.
QUIAPO
AUSTRALASIA PTY
LTD
168 Churchill Avenue,
Braybrook Vic 3019
Contact: Lita / Bong
Phone (03) 9311 0992
Fax
(03) 9311 4876
Wholesaler / Retailer / Importer of
Philippine Food Products / Money
Remittance / Door-to-Door Cargo
/ Selling Orocon plastic containers
/ Others
AMALIA’S LECHON
CEBU P/L
SPECIALISING IN FILIPINO
AUTHENTIC SPIT ROAST PIG
Contact: ALEX and AMIE
Factory 35, 12-20 James
Court, Tottenham, VIC
3012 (Mel Ref. 41A4)
The Original and the One and only
LECHON CEBU in MELBOURNE
Proven Delicious….Once tasted always wanted!
Ito lang ang tunay na malasa at totoong
LECHON CEBU….PIT SENYOR!
Locksmiths
BRIMBANK
COMMUNITY
MARKET
LOCKSMITHS AND
SECURITY DOORS
614 Ballarat Road,Ardeer
VIC 3022
Contact Tom or Gil
Contact: Susan Rodriguez
Australia-wide
Phone 1300 365 503
(03) 9689 2855
International
Freight
Forwarder
Contact: John or Imelda/
Ramon
28 Narellan Drive, Hampton
Park VIC 3976
Phone (03) 9799 7624
Ph/Fax (03) 9799 4245
Mobile 0404 097 624
Door-to-door Sea Cargo and Money
Remittance Services.
LBC Money
remittance
Unit 4, 51-53 Westwood
Drive, Ravenhall
Vic 3023
Hotline 1800 522 0000
Mobile 0413 481 442 Phone (03) 8348 5766
or 0 4 3 3 7 5 8 0 0 0 Mobile 0414 748 427
All Locks Opened / Installed / Repaired
/ Rekey & Master Key System / Supply
& Installed of Security Doors
KAROLINA’S KIDS
ENTERTAINMENT
Hoju Visa
Consulting
Mobile 0420 354 648
Contact: Daniel, Devorah
Suite 5, L4, 167 Queen
Street, Melbourne
Web: www.charmantus.com/kke
Face painting, balloon twisting, temporary tattoos, party games hosting,
clowns, fairies. Competitive price.
Please call for bookings.
allsafe xp
Phone (03) 9314 0858 Web: www.allsafeXP.com.au
Mobile 0 4 3 4 1 4 3 1 2 9
Dausan
0 4 0 1 2 0 9 5 4 0
Kids Entertainment Migration Agents
Contact: Karol
Money Remittance
&/or Freight
Services
(Registered Migration Agent Number
0635478, 0958805)
Web: www.lbcexpress.com
Philippine Gov’t
Offices
PHILIPPINE
EMBASSY
H.E. Belen Anota,
Ambassador
P.O. Box 3297, Manuka
Canberra ACT 2603
Phone (02) 6273 2535
(02) 6273 3984
Phone (03) 9600 3114 Fax
Email: embaphil@iaccess.com.au
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MIGRATION SERVICES
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PHILIPPINE
Consulate (NSW)
Level 1, Philippine Center,
27 Wentworth Avenue,
Sydney NSW 2001
Phone (02) 9262 7377
Fax
(02) 9262 7355
Mobile 0415 426 400
Email: contact@philippineconsulate.
com.au
Web: www.philippineconsulate.com.au
Philippine
consulate (VIC)
Ms Virginia Kalong
Suite 1205, St Kilda
Towers, 1 Queens Road,
Melbourne VIC
Phone (03) 9863 7885
Fax (03) 9863 7884
Email: info@philconsulate.com.au
Web: www.philconsulate.com.au
Mondays and Fridays. 10:00am
to 4:00pm. Thursdays by appointment only.
Philippine
consulate (QLD)
Mr. Alan Grummitt
126 Wickham St, Fortitude
Valley QLD 4006
Phone (07) 3252 8215
Fax
(07) 3252 8240
Philippine
Consulate (Tas.)
Mr Paul J. Green, Honorary
Consul General
GPO Box 1231 M, Hobart
TAS 7000
Phone (03) 6230 4000
Fax (03) 6231 1986
Phil Dept of
tourism
Level 1, Philippine Center,
27-33 Wentworth
Avenue, Sydney NSW
2000
Phone (02) 9283 0711
Fax (02) 9283 0755
Email: ptsydney@ozemail.com.au
Web: www.tourism.gov.ph
PARTY HIRE SERVICES
WE HIRE:
FOOD WARMERS WITH FUEL•CHAIRS•TABLES•
TABLE CLOTHS• CHAIR COVERS•CUTLERY•
CROCKERY• JUGS•ASH TRAYS•GLASSES•
GAZEEBO•CANDELABRAS AND OTHERS
PHILIPPINE TRADE
AND INVESTMENT
CENTER
Level 1, Philippine Center,
27 Wentworth Avenue,
Sydney NSW 2001
Phone (02) 9283 7300
Fax (02) 9283 8011
RADYO KABAYAN
Wednesdays 7:00 to 7:30 pm
Contact: Maria Selga,
program convenor
WOWFM - Sydney
Photographers,
Printers & Graphic
Designers
Tuesdays 7:00 to 9:00pm
Web: www.wr.com.au/bjs/wow.htm
FILCOM
PUBLISHING P/L
RAY WHITE
REAL ESTATE –
HAMPTON PARK
Mobile 0411 566 885
Email: publisher@philtimes.com
Website: ggoryopictures.com
Specialising in digital photography,
design of business forms, logos,
booklets, souvenir programmes,
magazines, flyers, etc.
IMIGENCE STUDIO
Contact: Mark Sombillo
Mobile 0401 396 189
Email: info@imigence.com
Web: www.imigence.com
Photos for events, fashion and corporate use. Fun and good times
guaranteed.
Radio Stations
3zzz 92.3 fm
Melbourne VIC
Contact: Chito Javier
Phone (03) 9415 1923
(03) 9415 1926
Email: radyopilipino@yahoogroups.
com
Wednesdays 3.00 PM to 4.00PM,
Fridays 7.00 AM to 8.00 AM, Sundays
11.00 PM to 12.00 Midnight
CPCA radio
program
Melbourne, 3SER 97.7 FM
Mondays 11.00 AM to 12.00PM
Geelong radio
94.7fm - filipino
program
Geelong, Victoria
Thursdays 6:00 to 8:00 pm
Contact: Aspie Burns
Phone (03) 5221 7144
PO Box 1043 Werribee VIC
Phone 03 9702 7222
3030
Mobile: 0412 335 077 5/44-48 Lock Avenue
Fax 03 9702 7337
Werribee VIC 3030
Email: ben.respicio@raywhite.com
Web: raywhitehamptonpark.com
Contact: BJ Galutera -
Religious
Organisations
Raul Lacerna -
0419 360 904 / 9369 4324
Email: elena88@bigpond.net.au
Refrigeration and air-conditioning services
KKB Refrigeration
and Air Conditioning Services
Over 25 years experience in the installation, refurbishments, upgrades and
replacements of air conditioners, for both domestic and light commercial.
Air Conditioning Services:
Commercial Refrigeration Services:
- Install and repair cool rooms
- Cold Rooms
- Install and repair split airconditioning
- Freezer Rooms
- Repair domestic and commercial
- Cold Cabinets
refrigeration
- Ice Machines
Experienced with all major brands.
Registered technician.
Highly competitive rates and individual packages tailored to suit your specific needs.
Discounted rates available (Conditions apply). Servicing Melbourne areas.
Quality service and honesty is our business
KKB Refrigeration and Airconditioning Services
Call Charlie 0423 181 012
0400821187
0400932446
Edwin Mallari -
(03)97483674
FIRST BORN
GOSPEL CHURCH
(an IAFB AUSTRALIA
CHURCH )
Contact: Ptr Ben – 0412 335 077
Mobile 0416 542 012
Ptr Lynette –
0448 005 373
1 Malcolm Court, Narre
Warren Vic 3805
CHRIST CENTERED TEACHING
Sunday Services:10:30 am-12:30 pm
Bible Studies: Tues. + Thurs.
Email: fbgchurch@gmail.com
Worship service – Sunday 10:00 am
-12:00 noon
GOD WITH US
INTERNATIONAL
CHRISTIAN
ASSEMBLIES INC.
Contact: Pastor Roger
Bucao/Pastor Nancy
Bucao
Seaford Community Centre,
Station Street, Seaford
VIC (Mel Ref. 427, C2)
Restaurants,
Take-away Shops
and Grocery Stores
Claire’s Food
House
Contact: Claire or Mary
Shop 5/550 Mahoneys Rd,
Campbellfield VIC 3061
Phone (03) 9359 0802
Mobile 0409 092 556
Services offered: take-away Filipino
cuisine, Filipino groceries, money
remittance, door-to-door boxes,
calling cards.
KABAYAN FILIPINO
RESTAURANT AND
ASIAN GROCERY
Contact: Jocelyn / Ding
Phone (03) 5995 7380
Shop 21-23/100 Furlong
Mobile 0433 265 487
Road, Cairnlea Shopping
Email: ps.roger@hotmail.com
Services every Sunday from 10:00 am
to 12:00 noon. Everyone Welcome.
RELIGIOUS ORGANISATION
CLASSIC ENTERPRISES
jESUS THE
REDEEMER
CHRISTIAN
FELLOWSHIP
Hampton Park Vic 3976
CLASSIC ENTERPRISES
0419 360 904
Email: elena88@bigpond.net.au
•CALENDARS• T-SHIRT PRINTING•FRIDGE MAGNETS•
KEY RINGS• WINES•LABELS•OTHERS•
RUBBER STAMPS•BUSINESS CARDS•LETTERHEADS•
RECEIPTS•FLYERS•GENERAL PRINTING
Web: www.hopeoflife.org.au
Worship Celebration - Youth Group
- Prayer Fellowship - Home Groups.
You are welcome!
Contact: Ben Respicio
15Enterprise Avenue
The Philippine Times Celebrating 22 years
Preferred partner of advertisers
PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS/
PRINTING
Phone (03) 9449 1926
Mobile 0414 916 817
Real Estate
WE ORGANISE:
KIDS ENTERTAINMENT-FACE PAINTING AND CLOWN
FOR CHILDREN’S PARTIES•VIDEOGRAPHER•
PHOTOGRAPHER•MUSIC – DJ
PROMOTIONS/PRINTING
Contact: Ptr Rick Raimundo
Sun. 10:00am - 8 Watt St.
(Corner Watt & Corio
Streets), Sunshine VIC
Sun. 4:00pm - 49 Valepark
Cres, Cranbourne VIC
Phone 0408 766 890
Fax (03) 9663 2874
Email: dtisydney@one.net.au
Contact: George
HOPE OF LIFE
COMMUNITY
CHURCH
Melbourne, 855 Khz AM
Centre, Cairnlea Vic 3023
Phone (03) 8390 1346
(03) 8358 5600
Mobile 0425 842 883
Catering/Take away food/Door-to-door
Cargo & Money Remittance/Phone
Cards Available.
little mekong
authentic
vietnamese
restaurant
Contact: Jensen and
Debbie
1A Triholm Avenue,
Laverton VIC 3028
Phone (03) 9369 4121
Mobile 0424 331 845
Dine In / Catering / Take-away Food
LUTONG PINOY
Contact: Narcisa Mcleavy
Shop 251, Footscray
Market Vic 3011
Mobile 0401 027 683
Specialising in Filipino Dishes – puto,
dinuguan, lumpia, turon, palabok,
kare-kare at iba pa.
Schools - Language
&/or Special
Courses
PHILIPPINE
LANGUAGE
INSTITUTE
1/28 Pickett Street
Footscray VIC 3011
Ph (6:00pm)
(03) 9687 9626
Mobile 0413 383 648
0466 422 047
Filipino & Visayan Languages Affordable fees. SUNDAY CLASSES.
PHILIPPINE
LANGUAGE
SCHOOL OF
VICTORIA, INC.
Contact: Perla Luetic
C/- 42 Eleanor Street,
Footscray VIC 3011
Phone/ Fax: (03) 9317
9156
Mobile: 0413 623 991
Email: phillang@bigpond.net.au
Web: www.philippinelanguage.webs.
com
VCE Provider, Filipino LOTE, Units
1, 2, 3 & 4
Post an event.
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www.philtimes.com.au
Continued on page 26
TRUCK AND TRAILER
ROX-SAN TRUCK &
TRAILER PL
AND SANROX BIN HIRE
Manufacturer of new truck
bodies and trailer.
Bins available different sizes
(pick up Western Suburbs only)
Ph: (03) 8358 5644
Mobile: 0419 306 934/0478 257 888
www.roxsan.com.au
TRAVEL
25
JANUARY 2013 the philippine times www.philtimes.com.au CELEBRATING 22 YEARS
Barangay Christmas Party in Perth
The Filipinos in Perth celebrated Barangay Christmas
Party, Pamasko ng FAMAS
last December 22, 2012 in
North Perth with free lechon
for everyone. There were
games for the children and
also the adults. The musical
chairs game for the kids
was competitive but it was
nothing compared to the
adults. It brought the house
down as mostly ladies vied
for those "precious chairs".
Father Christmas also came
to give the children their
presents and lots of lollies.
To add excitement to the
evening, there were huge
Christmas hampers raffled
off plus a 42" LED TV. As
usual, disco followed all the
way until midnight.
FAMAS President Anita
Kinkela would like to thank
everyone for coming, some
coming from as far as hundreds of kilometres away.
She also would like to thank
the generous sponsors for
supporting the event.
Lastly, she would like to
thank the officers who
have made this event
successful.
The next event is the
Valentine's Day Party
Hawaiian Style on 9 February 2013. For more
details please go to our
website www.famas-inc.
org or find "Famas Perth"
in facebook. You can also
email admin@famas-inc.
org.
Christmas
Winners of
rs
hampe
Winner of 42” LED TV.
Father Christmas with the children.
FAMAS Sports
FAMAS Sports-Badminton event Organisers: FAMAS Chairperson Susan Gorski
and Ariel Tapay
26
CELEBRATING 22 YEARS www.philtimes.com.au the philippine times JANUARY 2013
SPIRITUAL GROUND
Colours of Life
Dina Mananquil-Delfino
A weak soy decaf
cappuccino
One time a parishioner
asked me: “Why is it that
some church people can be
most unforgiving, critical
and unkind?” I wish that his
observation is untrue, but
sadly, it can be valid.
I often experience both
sides of the coin- I can be
praised for a job well done
and I can also be quickly shot
down for some decisions.
The first one is easy to deal
with, the latter a bit more
challenging as it will involve
an examination of conscience
and a journey towards forgiveness. It will also require
a choice- to seethe in anger
or let go and bless the other
party. It is made more difficult
as our expectation of our
brothers and sisters in Christ
can be high. We are mystified
why church people cannot
seem to internalise the wisdom gathered from seminars,
retreats, prayer meetings,
fellowships, church services,
and regular communion with
the Lord. Often I have to
mediate between parties who
do not want to work together
in a parish event.
“The highway of holiness
is not a place, but a way,“
says Hannah Whitall Smith,
in her book, The Christian’s
Secret of a Happy Life. Sanctification is not a thing to be
picked up at a certain stage of
our experience, and forever
after possessed, but it is a life
to be lived day by day, and
hour by hour.
In our walk with the Lord
there are momentary failures,
that although very sad and
greatly to be deplored, need
not disturb the attitude of the
soul. The great point is an
instant return to God.”
I remember an incident
when a church leader was
rude to me. Initially I was
disturbed by his behaviour.
I held him in high esteem.
It took some hours to regain the peace that the evil
one tried to steal. Only my
personal relationship with
Jesus and the promise of the
Holy Spirit as my Comforter
saved the serenity in my soul.
I did not want to disappoint
the Lord, so I asked Him to
help me.
As the Lord sustained me,
instead of resentment, I felt
a greater understanding of
the need of the person. In
the same book, the author
warns us that a “cross Christian, a discouraged, gloomy
Christian, a doubting, a
complaining , exacting, selfish, indulgent Christian, a
Christian with a sharp tongue
or bitter spirit, maybe very
earnest in their work and
may have honourable places
in the church, but they are
not Christlike Christians.”
Real followers of Jesus will
be checked for their habits,
tempers, conversation and
pursuits.
I always request a weak soy
decaf cappuccino. Whoever
serves me gets startled- my
order seems an enigma to
some baristas! In life there
will be many surprises when
we are suddenly faced with
an attitude test of the soul.
How much agitation will
we entertain? Can we trust
Him in restoring the calm in
the midst of our storms and
believe: “Be still and know
that I am God.”
Will 2013 be welcomed
with anxiety or a tranquillity
that comes from knowing the
Lord will take care of us? As
we welcome the New Year,
we pray for an inward rest
and outward victory, one
that reflects Christ in our
daily life, one that is always
governed by compassion and
mercy.
(For comments or feedback, email
evamarie09@bigpond.com).
Gabriela Australia holds event for a cause
Gabriela Australia has
spearheaded a fund raising
dinner-dance event last 17
November 2012 at Eden’s
Garden, St. Albans. This
year’s activity was supported by sponsors such as
Royal Brunei, Philippine
Tours and Western Travel.
Over 150 Filipinos and Australians attended the event.
The Philippine Fiesta of
Victoria, Philippine Beauty
Quest, Language School,
FCCVI, Ilonggo, Ilocano
Associations, Pampangueno,
Migrante Melbourne and
Anakbayan helped out in
the fund raising event.
“ E v e r y y e a r, G a b r i ela Australia has a fund
Classifieds
...continued from page 24
Social Organisations
ASSOCIATION
OF FILIPINOS &
AUSTRALIANS IN
GIPPSLAND
Contact: Jerry or Dolor
1 Ash Court, Traralgon Vic
3844
raising event to support
our beneficiary, Children
Rehabilitation Centre, a
non-government, non-profit
organization based in Quezon City, Philippines that
helps children victims of
human rights violations
across the country,” Angie
Ladera, Gabriela Australia
Chairperson, told The Philippine Times.
Gabriela Australia is a
Filipino women organisation with the advocacy to
protect the rights and welfare of Filipino women in
Australia especially those
who have fallen victims
to sexual discrimination,
racial discrimination, sexual
CIRCULO
CAPIZENO OF
MELBOURNE
Contact: Terry Apines
18 Claude Avenue,
Hampton Park Vic
3976
Mobile 0413 844 146
We raise funds to support our projects
in Capiz.
FILIPINO
Phone ( 0 3 ) 5 1 3 4 AUSTRALIAN
1446 – Jerry
FRIENDSHIP
(03) 5174 8508 – Dolor ASSOCIATION
Email: jlbaladjay@live.com.au
The Association continues to grow OF GEELONG
since 2001. Main projects: Quest
for Miss Austral-asia and the Filipino INCORPORATED
Fiesta in Gippsland
Sponsors: La Trobe City Council,
Multi-cultural Affairs and Citizenship,
Western Union, Western Travel and J
& J Express.
AUSTRALIAN
VISAYAN
ASSOCIATION OF
VICTORIA INC
Contact: Barry Buckle,
President
D.W. Hope Centre, The
Boulevard, Norlane
VIC 3214
Phone: (03) 5257 1921
“We welcome everyone to join our
organisation.”
13 Schuler Court, Narre
Warren VIC 3805
Contact: Dr. Edgar Lagrito,
President
filipino
australian
foundation of
Phone (03) 9796 3872 qld
Everyone is welcome to join our
organization.
Submit an article
Email alice@philtimes.com
Contact: Mauro Somodio
PO Box 2424, Chirmside
QLD 4032
Phone (07) 3216 9808
abuse, trafficking and harassment, domestic violence
and oppression.
Officers of Gabriela Australia are: Chairper-
FILIPIno
community
coordinating
council of qld
Contact: Orly Vargas
GPO Box 2745, Brisbane
QLD 4001
Phone (07) 3808 7804
Filipino
Community
council of
Victoria inc.
(fccvi)
Contact: Jing Sosa
93 Cowper Street,
Footscray, VIC 3011
Phone (03) 9687 9011
Fax (03) 9687 9120
Website: fccvi.org.au
“As the umbrella body, we look after
the welfare of the Fil-Aussie communities in Victoria.”
ILOCANO FILIPINO
AUSTRALIAN
ASSOCIATION OF
VICTORIA INC.
Contact: Elsa Reed or
Malou Collie
12 Jamison Street,
Laverton Vic 3028
Phone
Elsa-(03) 9336 1008
Malou-0430 941 491
Mobile 0403 306 701
son- Angie Ladera; Vice
Chairperson- Resy Lim;
Secretary- Tess Blumhoff;
Dep Secretary- Jenny
Binegas; Treasurer- Lorna
Diche; Committee Head for
Education- Malou Logan;
Committee Head for Welfare- Cristy Rivera AssistantIlleth Stevens; Committee
Head for Membership-Elsa
Reed; Committee Head for
Campaign- May Kotsakis,
and Assistant- Stephanie
Rabusa.
Photos by Hector Calara
We invite all Ilocanos to be members
of our association.
“We celebrate the Pre-Valentine’s
Day of the Ilocano Filipino Australian
Association of Victoria Inc. (IFAAV)
every 2nd week of February”.
PampangueÑo
Club of
Melbourne
Victoria
Ilonggo
Association of
Victoria, Inc.
11 Hunter Ave,
RoxburghPark VIC 3064
Contact: Neds
Sarcepuedes –
President
C/- 5 Chedgey Drive, St
Albans Vic 3021
Contact: Roy Carbungco,
President
KALIWAT
BOL-ANON SA
AUSTRALIA INC.
(KABAI)
Contact: Tony Boncales –
President
Rowella Dango –
Secretary
Phone
9711 5033 –
Tony
9558 3674 –
Rowella
Submit an article
Email alice@philtimes.com
PO Box 533 Laverton 3028
Contact: Ross Manuel,
Chairman
Email: royc@iprimus.com.au
The club holds its annual event every
Melbourne Cup Day eve.
AUSTRALIAN
FOUNDATION OF
VICTORIA (PAFI)
Contact: Perla Luetic –
Executive Director
Susan Rodriguez –
Treasurer
93 Cowper Street,
Footscray Vic 3011
Mobile 0433 600 658
Phone (03) 9687 9011
Fundraising arm of FCCVI for the maintenance of the Multi-purpose centre.
Telecom
TriStar Telecom
Contact: Iain Mackenzie,
Manager
Mobile 0433 404 987 Sunshine Plaza, Kiosk
Web: www.philfiesta.com
7/324 Hampshire Road,
Philippine Fiesta holds yearly event
in November. “Makipag-akbayan po
Sunshine, Vic 3020
tayo para sa kaunlaran.”
Phone (03) 9305 1426
Fax (03) 9305 1425 SHARE-ME-A
Mobile 0411 145 776 DREAM
Ph AH (03) 9364 0435
Mobile 0409 430 040 PHILIPPINE
Our next project is to build a multipurpose hall in Bacolod through
Gawad Kalinga.
Philippine Fiesta
of Victoria Inc.
BISAYAN
COMMUNITY CLUB
OF VICTORIA INC.
Contact: Choy Symes
(President) or Terry
Kane (Vice President)
C/- 9 Englewood Court
Hillside Vic 3037
Mobile 0422 807 339 (Choy)
Mobile 0409 675 246 (Terry)
Email: choysymes.shareme@
y7mail.com
Club annual project “Operation
Smile”
Responding to the growing needs of
Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Operation in
Southern Philippines.
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PARTHENON
TRAVEL
Contact: Cherywin Neilson
201 Lonsdale Street
Melbourne Vic 3000
Phone Phone+61422 774 671 Fax: Email: info@tristartelecom.com.au
Mobile:
Website: http://www.tristar telecom.
com.au
Products/Services: Postpaid/Prepaid
Mobiles, Mobile Phone Repair, PC
Repair, Security Camera Installation,
POS Systems (cash registers)
Travel Agents &/or
Travel Tours
A philippine
tours
Contact: Aleli, Jennifer,
Chris, Ester, Grace,
Geraldine, or Vencie
225 Melville Rd, Brunswick
West VIC 3055
Phone (03) 9384 1844
Mobile 0411 711 639
Website: www.discountflights.com.au
25 years servicing the Philippine community. Laging handang maglingkod
sa lahat ng inyong pangangailangan!
Maaasahan at mapagkakatiwalaan
kahit kailan!
ADVERTISE IN THIS SECTION
Email: ads@philtimes.com
(03) 9639 1177
(9 Lines)
(03) 9639 0106
0430 956 306
Email: cherywinneilson@parthenontravel.com.au
Web: www.parthenontravel.com.au
“The answer to all your travel
needs.”
Worldwide Travel Specialist
ICCA Accredited Cruise Consultant
Deer Park travel
Contact: Mina Precilla
Mobile 0415 661 665
Email: mina@precillatravel.com.au
“TRAVEL EXPERT”
WESTERN TRAVEL
Deer Park
License 32932
Contact: Josie, Rita, John,
Carmi
Shop 2A, 100 Furlong Rd
Cairnlea Town Centre
Cairnlea Vic 3023
Phone 03 9363 0288
Fax
03 9363 0488
Email: deerpark@westerntravel.com.
au
Web: www.westerntravel.com.au
27
JANUARY 2013 the philippine times www.philtimes.com.au CELEBRATING 22 YEARS
UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
Actor advocate: Allen Dizon
‘Down Under’
Reyvi Mariñas
Sitting opposite to Allen
Dizon over a fine dining and
a glass of red wine at a winery restaurant in the Yarra
Valley is perhaps one of the
rarest opportunities one
could have from the most
prominent actor advocate in
the country today.
Sitting beside him is Dennis Evangelista, the Line
Producer of the film Dukot
(Desaparecidos). Allen and
Dennis are both in Melbourne and in Sydney for
the special screenings of
Dukot shown in late October
until early November of last
year.
Critically acclaimed as a
very powerful and controversial film that portrays the
human rights issue in the
Philippines, Dukot is indeed
Allen’s first daring and the
most challenging role he
has ever done in his entire
acting career.
“It was challenging for
me because this film was all
my first time: first time with
Director Joel Lamangan; first
time to accept the role of an
activist; and this was the
first time I became socially
and politically conscious
about the human rights
violations in our country”,
he explains.
***
Before Allen accepted his
debut role in Dukot, he was
known to be a ‘sexy star’ in
the late 1990s up to early
2000s, where he has made
a total of around twenty to
thirty sexy films.
“During those times that
I have been doing a lot of
sexy films, I became really
bored of doing the same role.
There was no real challenge
for me as an actor. But these
days, it was not about my
body or about my looks, it is
more of acting and accepting
challenging roles”, Allen
says, whilst holding the
wine glass.
Undeniably, Allen has
won several awards including his first FAMAS Award
for Best Actor in the film
Paupahan (Crossroads); his
second FAMAS Award for
Best Actor and the prestigious Gawad Tanglaw Award
for Best Actor in the film
Dukot (Desaparecidos); and
his second FAMAS Award
for Best Supporting Actor
in film Sigwa (First Quarter
Storm of 1970s).
The film Migrante ‘The
Filipino Diaspora’ is already
lined-up for next year’s film
showing in Australia, and
Allen is excited to come
back for the promotion and
screening of the film next
year.
***
Allen was the second
child in the family of four
siblings: Emerson, Allen,
Erica and Aubrey. Allen was
only 12 years old when his
father was gun-downed for
unknown reason. He says
that the motive could have
been personal.
Before he died, his father
went to Saudi Arabia for a
year, but eventually came
back to the Philippines and
worked at PAGCOR in Manila. His mother, Rebecca,
never re-married and soon
went to Hong Kong to work;
but after a few months,
she went back for medical
reason.
“So the OFW issues are
very close to me because
of my experience with my
parents and my other relatives,” Allen explains.
As the film Migrante approaches next year’s film
showing in Australia, it
is definite that we will be
Allen Dizon (front centre) with members of Migrante Melbourne, Gabriela Australia,
and AnakBayan Melbourne, at the rally in the city on the eve of President Aquino’s
recent visit to Australia.
seeing Allen Dizon more
often as he now considers
this country as his second
home.
(Editor’s note: Reyvi Mariñas is a
Human Rights Lawyer and is now
completing his PhD dissertation at
Monash University Law School on the
topic of overseas Filipino identity and
political participation in Australia.)
(Visit www.philtimes.com.au for the
full text of this article.)
6SRQVRUHGE\
0HOERXUQH $XVWUDOLD
Allen Dizon and Jodi Sta. Maria in the
film Migrante ‘The Filipino Diaspora’.
0$5&+ /XOX /RUHQ]R /RXHOOD .HOOHU Allen Dizon and Dennis Evangelista at Yering Station Wine and Café Bar
during one of their scenic tours in Melbourne.
28
CELEBRATING 22 YEARS www.philtimes.com.au the philippine times JANUARY 2013
MIGRATION
Filipino
Migrants
Forum
Atty. Imelda Argel
Parental consent
Under the Australian
migration legislation, the consent of each person who can
lawfully determine where the
child is to live is required, for
children under 18 years of
age to migrate to Australia.
However, if the consent
of the non-migrating parent
cannot be obtained, the case
officer of the Department of
Immigration and Citizenship
(DIAC) will usually require
one of the following:
• Court order permitting
removal of the child.
• Evidence that the laws of
the child’s home country
permit removal of the
child.
• Evidence that the grant of
the visa is consistent with
any Australia child order
in force in relation to the
child.
Obtaining a court order is
expensive and generally will
cause delay in the visa processing. Providing evidence
that the laws of the child’s
home country permit the
removal of the child could
facilitate the visa grant.
Specific to Philippine
citizens, are provisions of
the Family Code of the Philippines (FCP) on parental
authority: “Parental authority” refers to the “natural
right and duty of parents
over the person and property
of their dependent children”.
It includes the right “to keep
them in their company”.
It is arguable that the “right
over the person” and “to keep
them in their company” includes the right to determine
where the dependent child
should live. Thus, if only one
parent has parental authority,
the other parent cannot lawfully determine where the
dependent child is to live,
and therefore consent of that
parent is not required.
The FCP provides that
in case of absence or death
of either parent, the parent present shall continue
exercising parental authority.
Therefore, a parent who has
abandoned a child or whose
whereabouts is unknown is
absent, and therefore, in such
case, only the present parent
has parental authority.
The FCP further provides
that illegitimate children
shall be under the parental
authority of their mother.
The child is illegitimate if
the parents of the child are
not married and therefore it
is arguable that there is no
need to obtain the consent of
the father to the migration of
the dependent child with the
mother to Australia because
the father has no parental
authority over the child. The
policy of the Department of
Social Welfare and Development of the Philippines
supports the view that “Since
the mother has the absolute
parental authority over her illegitimate children, the father
would need to secure a Court
Order vesting in him the
parental authority over the
illegitimate children”.
In case of separation of the
parents, parental authority
shall be exercised by the parent designated by the Court.
Generally children under
seven years of age shall not
be separated from the mother
and the choice of children
over seven years of age shall
be considered by the Court.
The laws of the Philippines
cited above therefore, are
evidence that permit the
removal of the child by the
parent who has parental authority over the child. Thus,
the consent of the parent
who is absent either because
he or she has abandoned
the child or because he or
she cannot be located, or is
the father of an illegitimate
child, is unnecessary for the
purpose of the dependent
child’s migration and can
be dispensed with in case of
refusal to give consent to the
migration of the child.
Moreover, under DIAC
policy, “if there is no evidence of any person other
than the sponsoring parent
having custody/residence
responsibility, officers should
presume that the parent is
the only person who needs to
consent to the visa grant”.
This information is of a general
nature and should not be taken as
authoritative legal advice for specific
cases. Australia has a scheme that
requires persons who give immigration
assistance to be registered as
migration agent. Contact Atty. Imelda
Argel (MARN 9682957) on info@
iargel.com.au.
Do you want to work, study or live Australia?
Are you in a partner (de facto, married or same sex)
relationship?
Ph: (02) 9699 3072 or Email info@iargel.com.au
Immigration articles at www.iargel.com.au
Templates for Migration Agents at
www.migratonprecedents.com.au
Atty. Imelda Argel
B.A.(Hons.), L.L.B. (U.P.), L.L.M. (Syd.)
Solicitor in New South Wales and the High Court of Australia
Attorney at law in New York, USA and the Philippines
Registered Migration Agent No. 9682957
E oE
eling
c u nms e n t
FoR
m
a
r
l
g
ro
pr
en
s t u d yd c o u r s e
an
EXPERIENCE
IELTS OF 7
EMPLOYER SPONSORSHIP VISAS
STUDENT PATHWAYS to PR
FAMILY and SPOUSE VISAS
MIGRATION REVIEW TRIBUNAL
Call: 0412 321 187
ABN 32 389 630 964
MIGRATION CONSULTANCY
AUSTRALIA
felix@allskills.com.au
Education . Migration . Settlement
INTEGRATED RECRUITMENT & MIGRATION
www.allskills.com.au
Felix
Carao Grad Cert Aust Immi Law (VU)
MARN 1069354 / MMIA 4572 / QEAC No. G028 / MRCSA 51889
Member of Migration Institute
-of Australia-
Accredited
Recruitment
Professional
8B, Level 2, 221 Queen St
Melbourne Vic 3000
We also assist Doctors, other Health
Professionals, Engineers & Teachers.
MARN: 0849618
NURSES with NO
29
JANUARY 2013 the philippine times www.philtimes.com.au CELEBRATING 22 YEARS
Miss Gay and Miss Transexual Australia
to be held next month in Melbourne
With its mission of bringing
awareness for better understanding and acceptance in the
community, the Miss Gay and
Miss Transexual Australia 2013
beauty pageant will showcase
the best among Australia’s pageant queens, transsexuals and
crossdressers on 2 February 2013
starting at 7pm at the Yarraville
Club, 135 Stephen Street, Yarraville Victoria.
Twenty-two contestants from
all over Australia will battle
for the crowns and titles with
their stunning costumes, talent,
fierce attitude, wit and cheeky
humour.
Last year’s winners Martini Ice
- Miss Gay Australia, a Brisbane
based drag artist and Vannessa
Roberts - Miss Transsexual winner, a Melbourne based Les
Girl, will crown this year’s
winners. Theme for this year's
pageant is Colours of Australia
which is aimed to highlight and
celebrate the diversity of culture
and tradition existing within the
Australian community.
Miss Gay and Miss Transsexual
Australia started as an annual
alternative beauty pageant for
gay men, cross-dressers, drag
queens and transsexuals. The
pageant, which started with
humble beginnings in 2009, has
since grown in proportion and
presence not only in Victoria
but interstate. This competition embraces diversity in the
LGBTI community and provides
a safe place for people-like-us
(PLUs) to share their beauty and
showcase their talents to the
general audience. The pageant
now that sees more nation-wide
representatives, and winners
from past years have gained
exposure from the pageant as
they were given opportunities
to perform in the many popular
clubs in Sydney, Melbourne
and Brisbane. Many are now
established personalities and
performers. These winners have
also been given much exposure
in their respective local, national
and international media.
The objectives of this event
are as follows: to foster better
understanding and acceptance
of the LGBTI community; to
offer a well organised international pageant competition for
cross-dressers, drag queens,
transgenders and transsexuals
in Australia and from around the
world; to provide an opportunity
and a platform for cross-dressers,
drag queens, transgenders and
transsexuals to express their
creativity and talent in a wider
audience; to build friendship and
exchange ideas among international lesbian, gay, bisexual and
transgender/transsexual communities; to support the annual gay
celebrations of the Midsumma
Festival and Pride March in
Melbourne (by parading the
candidates and winner during
the Pride march).
The talent portion highlights
the event as each candidate
performs their unique talents –
be it live singing, impersonation,
drag number, exotic dancing
and stand up comedy where the
loudest cheering and screaming
from fans and audience will
be expected in the spirit of
competition.
During the intermission, you
can dance the night away, be
entertained by celebrity guest
singers, dancers and performers.
Food and drinks available at the
venue.
NOTICE OF CHANGE OF ADDRESS
Starting 1 DECEMBER 2012, Lita Mahle and associates
of Pacific Rim Technology Corp Pty. Ltd. will be moving
from its current location at Suite 17 Hub Arcade Langhorne
St Dandenong to a new location.
Address: Level 2, 710 Collins Street DOCKLANDS
Our new number starting from 1 December 2012 is
(03) 9097 1756
Meanwhile, you may continue to contact us on any of the
numbers and email addresses below:
Phone (03) 9793 7930 or Vphone (03) 8762 7292
or Vphone (03) 8762 7233
Lita Mahle's Mobile: 0401457991
Kristhine Gestano's Mobile: 0406063979
Email: migrationtoz@gmail.com
30
CELEBRATING 22 YEARS www.philtimes.com.au the philippine times JANUARY 2013
Argel receives 2012
Presidential Award
through a paper she presented to
the Joint Standing Committee on
Migration of the Australian Federal
Parliament in 2006.
As a result of her submission, the
Philippine CEP was amended to
recognise any Professional Regulation Commission Board licensure
examinations as benchmark for a
comparable Australian Bachelor
degree. Prior to the amendment,
only a Bachelor degree from a
top university in the Philippines
was unconditionally recognised
as comparable to an Australian
Bachelor degree. This restricted the
entry of licensed professionals who
graduated from other universities
when applying under the Skilled
Migration Stream. The Bachelors
degree conferred by any of these
universities was recognised as
equivalent only to an Australian
Diploma level.
Through her networking ability, she forged close partnerships
among the New South Wales
Technical and Further Education
(TAFE), South Western Sydney Institute, and Philippine educational
institutions. This has resulted
in the delivery of NSW TAFE
Atty Argel (second from left) with Judge Manuel Argel, Nila Argel, Julie courses in the Philippines, enabling Philippine students to attain
Lava and Manny Zarb.
Sydney-based Filipino lawyer
Imelda Argel joined twelve distinguished Banaag awardees at the
2012 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations
Overseas, held at the Malacanan
Palace, Manila. The ceremonies
were held 5 December 2012.
The Banaag Award is among the
categories under the Presidential
Awards, which recognises individuals or associations for their
contributions, which have advanced the cause or significantly
benefitted overseas Filipino communities or sector. The three
other categories are: The Lingkod
sa Kapwa Pilipino Award, The
Kaanib ng Bayan Award, and The
Panama ng Pilipino Award. The
Banaag category has 13 awardees,
and Atty. Argel is the only awardee
from Australia.
Atty. Argel was cited for her
commitment to advocating the
mutual recognition of skills and
qualifications of Filipino migrants
in Australia in her legal and migration practice.
She specifically advocated the
revision of the “The Philippine
Country Education Profile (CEP)”
Atty. Imelda Argel with Philippine President Benigno Aquino III
an Australian qualification in the
Philippines.
Atty. Argel is also the author of
Time Saving Immigration Practice
Solutions on General Skilled Migration, which assists other migration
professionals in providing advice
on visa matters. This is published
online at www.migrationprecedents.com.au.
She started her migration practice in Australia in 1996, following
15 years of law practice in the
Philippines. Her record shows a
90 percent rate of visa grant and
a 95 percent rate of success for
appeals with the Migration Review
Tribunal (MRT).
Atty. Argel writes a regular
column entitled “The Migration
Forum” for The Philippine Times,
in which she discusses migration
issues not readily understood by
many.
The Presidential Awards for
Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas is a biennial awards
institutionalised since 1991 with
the signing of Executive Order
No. 498.
This year’s awardees were selected from a total of 137 nominations from 26 countries through
35 Philippine Consulates and
Embassies. Only 29 were chosen
as awardees. Twenty-four are
individuals, of whom two are
foreigners, and five are non-profit
associations. They come from
four continents and 14 countries.
Their exceptional achievements
or humanitarian efforts have given
form and substance to Filipino
excellence and the time-honoured
values of “pakikipagkapwa, pagtutulungan and pagkakaisa”.
TAX RETURNS FEE FROM REFUND
- Cleared directly into your bank
- Fees paid out of your refund
- Half price for under 21 years old
Have an appointment TODAY
The Office of the Philippine Consulate
(Victoria, Australia)
SERVICES WE PROVIDE
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mobile service and
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• Income Tax Returns: Individual, Company & Trust
• GST Advice & BAS Returns
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PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
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PHONE: (03) 9704 7661
Email: stephen@bestaccountants.com.au
Website: www.bestaccountants.com.au
BIOMETRICS CAPTURE OF ePASSPORT APPLICANTS
¾ 8 March 2013 (Friday) – 9.00 am to 5.00 pm
¾ 9 March 2013 (Saturday) – 9.00 am to 4.00 pm
OATH TAKING FOR REACQUISITION OF FILIPINO CITIZENSHIP
AND NEWLY NATURALISED FILIPINOS
¾ 9 March 2013 (Saturday) – 4.30 pm
VENUE - Philippine Australian Multipurpose Centre, 93 Cowper St., Footscray, Victoria
CONTACT -
Consul - 0411 711 639 | Raine - 0433 461 952 | Nini - 0425 811 177 | Inyang - 0428 942 720
Application Requirements
PRE-REGISTRATION:
Applicant mails to Embassy for pre-registration and preencoding accomplished application form with the following
supporting documents:
a. photocopy of data page of current passport
b. In case of change of name for married women, copy
of Report of Marriage or NSO-authenticated Marriage
Certificate.
c. In case of new passport, copy of Report of Birth or NSOauthenticated Birth Certificate.
d. If dual citizen, photocopy of Identification Certificate, Oath
of Allegiance and Order.
e. If passport is lost, Affidavit of Loss, Police Report - same
requirements as for new passport.
Please note:
IMPORTANT:
Applicant should provide contact information (email address
preferred) in the application form so the Embassy can send an
email that will:
t confirm receipt of application;
t inform applicant to bring current original passport when
he makes personal appearance at mobile mission;
t inform applicant of additional documents that need to be
submitted, if any;
t inform applicant of date, time and station that he is to
go to mobile site for biometrics data capture (Applicants
are advised to be at the venue 30 minutes prior to their
appointment); and
t inform applicant to bring payment for passport processing
fee in Postal Money Order.
DEADLINE FOR PRE-REGISTRATION – 22 FEBRUARY 2013
*** ONLY PRE-REGISTERED APPLICANTS WILL BE ACCOMMODATED.
NO WALK-IN APPLICANTS WILL BE ENTERTAINED.***
*** NO solicitation of membership to organization, NO selling of raffle tickets, NO promotion of
products and services, etc. will be allowed during the Mobile Mission sessions. ***
For more info, contact Consul Virginia Kalong on 0411 711 639 or Raine Cabral on 0433 461 952
31
JANUARY 2013 the philippine times www.philtimes.com.au CELEBRATING 22 YEARS
GLIT AND GLAM
Young Generation gives generously
Maria Smith (VSL)
It was all praises for Young
Generation President Metring
Reyes when YG celebrated
Christmas in a traditional but
absolutely delightful style on
15 December at the John Pandazopolous Hall in Doveton.
It was attended by around
300 Filipino-Australian families and friends.
“God so loved the world
that He gave His only begotten son that whoever believes
in Him should not perish
but have everlasting life.
Today, we must enjoy and
give love to everybody and
cherish each other,” the YG
President said, welcoming
attendees with this beautiful
spiritual message, which was
also shared by Pastor Ernie
Eradiel.
CPCA/AFCS Secretary
Virgie Wright tirelessly coordinated the event with the
help of other YG members
and volunteers. The Christmas lanterns parade and
the official lighting of the
Christmas stage decoration
were so impressive. The
latter, which was a magical
White Christmas display
made from recyclable plastic
cups, was made possible
through the ingenuity of the
YG artistic designers.
The celebration had an
endless supply of mouthwatering Filipino cuisine
capped with a superb choice
of traditional and Australian
desserts. Aside from the
bountiful food, Santa came
with lots of presents for
the excited youngsters who
patiently waited for their
turn. Entertainment was
provided by Corinna Varga,
who was recently proclaimed
Inter-faith Youth Convenor in
Melbourne southeast and the
YG Bamboo Band. The night
was made more fun with a
raffle of prizes, dancing and
catch-ups.
Indeed, everyone expressed praise and gratitude
for the thoughtfulness and
Dela Cruz’s Birthday
Connie dela Cruz with loving
husband Rafael.
Connie celebrated her special
birthday on 9th December at
her residence.
Friends and guests came to
celebrate Connie’s birthday
and catch-up with friends who
joined the Pilgrimage in Europe.
generosity of Nanay Mitz and
other YG officers, volunteers,
and sponsors who staged this
event with the aim of uniting
Australians
and Filipinos in commemorating the best Christmas
gift of all--the birth of Jesus
Christ.
Santa entertaining captivated children in
front of the magical YG Christmas display.
YG Pres. Metring Reyes (seated at centre)
with YG family.
Masagana Christmas Party
in Boronia, third time joyful
Maria Smith (VSL)
For the third year in a
row, Masagana Filipino Asian
Grocery proprietors Boy and
Terry Apines wowed patrons and friends with their
overwhelming generosity by
inviting them to celebrate
Filipino Christmas on 16
December, right outside their
Boronia shop.
This much-awaited gathering certainly provided the
comfort and entertainment
longed for by AustralianFilipinos who were surely
missing the traditional Filipino Christmas celebration
they had been accustomed
to in the Philippines.
Besides the mouth-watering Filipino dishes and the
lechon, the highlight of the
party has
always been
the singing of the
Christmas
carols by
Samahan ng
mga PilipinoAustralians
sa Gippsland
(SPAG) led by
the versatile
guitarist and singer, Gerry
Baladjay. Everyone participated joyfully, singing and
dancing to the beat of their
favourite nostalgic Christmas
songs. The warm reunions
also provided a heartfelt
meaning to the celebration.
In her speech, Terry sincerely reiterated her grati-
Proprietor Terry Apines gives back to the community
tude, “Thank you to all our
customers! Without you, we
would not be here, so this
is all for you!” Her words
reflected her family’s aim to
not only share their gratitude
but also to entertain their
patrons, family, and friends
during this very meaningful
and joyful season.
32
CELEBRATING 22 YEARS www.philtimes.com.au the philippine times JANUARY 2013