august 2006 - final.qxp
Transcription
august 2006 - final.qxp
Step up and join the trade professionals. Become a CITP Register now at Gilmore College. Tel.514-485-7861 Classes start soon August 2006, Vol. XXIV, No. 8 Be prepared for the global economy HEADLINES Community supports Page 8 Elumbra Children’s Festival in Montreal Page 9 Mayon volcano erupts Page 3 Contents Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Community News . . . . . . . . . 8-9 Global Perspectives . . . . . . . . . 7 www.filipinostar.org “Volunteer of the Year” search is on Montreal – August 16, 2006 Gilmore College has launched for the first time its search for “Community Volunteer of the Year” Award which will be presented to the winner during its 17th year of foundation scheduled on October 28, 2006, 6:00 p.m. at the Ruby Rouge Restaurant in Chinatown. The Volunteer Awards committee icomposed of Edith Fedalizo as the chairperson and three members - Paul Imperial, Dr. Emmie Pelausa and Fely Rosales Carino, held their first meeting today, August 16. They decided on the following criteria which will be used in the selection of candidates for the title “Community Volunteer of the Year.” The nominee must 1) have Filipino heritage; 2) have done vlunteer work for the Filipino community in Quebec and 3) must be unelected and unpaid in doing volunteer work. Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi, the founder and director-general of Gilmore College, said that the award is intended to inspire everyone to have the desire to serve others, not because of any political goals but out of a genuine desire to help wholeheartedly. This attempt to recognize The Gilmore College Volunteer of the Year Selection Committee (seated from right) Edith Fedalizo, Chairperson, Fely Rosales Carino, and Dr. Emmie Pelausa, members. Paul Imperial, anotehr member of the committee, is shown in the photo below. the most outstanding community volunteer is certainly not going to be easy as there are many people who are involved in some type of volunteer work. However, it is hoped that the Gilmore College award will start a new trend of promoting volunteerism not only in Montreal but also in other places wherever there is a need. Paul Imperial, Committee Member Over two thousand signatures gathered on Sabadao’s petition so far and still counting Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . 16-17 Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Philippine Cuisine. . . . . . . . . . 10 READERS POLL vote: www.filipinostar.org See Page 4 Volunteer Danius Sabadao still anxiously waiting for Immigration Minister Monte Solberg to decide on his fate Earth Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Do you support the appeal of Danius Sabadao to stay in Canada? Advertise in the North American Filipino Star Call 514-485-7861 Reach out to your prospective clients. Honorable Monte Solberg, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Canada Danius Sabadao showing documents proving his innocence Since June 18, 2006 when the case of Danius Sabadao came to the attention of the Filipino-Canadian community, there is very little progress made as far as attracting the attention of the government is concerned. Although the story was also covered by CTV News that same day and the Montreal Suburban newspaper wrote about it in its June 14th edition, followed by the Filipino Star which featured the story in its front page for the July 2006 issue, it is still unknown how Minister Monte Solberg will respond to the request of the Filipino Star Editor, Zenaida Kharroubi, to meet him in person and present the thousands of signatures gathered so far. A letter with the related See Page 8 Sabadao 2 The North American Filipino Star O A T ill you, as an individual, or as an association care to pitch in and help in making the government listen to our petition? If you do, please talk to your representative, or write a letter and email message to the Honorable Solberg to review the above cases quickly before it is too late. In the website of the Filipino Star, you may express your support for Sabadao through our readers on-line poll by giving a positive reply to the question: Do you support Danius Sabadao’s appeal to stay in Canada? To facilitate your task of communicating with the government, we are providing you with the list of people who we believe should receive your correspondence (see next column). We have already done our part. Now, it is the community we are counting on to do the rest. If anyone of you have other ideas, please send us your thoughts, comments, suggestions and above all, prayers for the success of our mission to help others. W EDITORIAL ne of the concerns of the multicultural communities is the common perception that the Conservative Party is known to be unsympathetic to immigration problems and issues. This perception may yet prove to be unfounded if the current case of Danius Sabadao receives proper attention of the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration. On July 26, 2006, a formal letter of request was sent to his office to present to him in person the petition of thousands of people. We know that it is only through Ministerial intervention that Sabadao could have the evidence reviewed because there are too many cases pending and the Immigration Department is not even obliged to give any answer nor to review any case once Immigration judges have rendered their decisions. lthough a stay of 2 or 3 months’ delay of his deportation has been granted, there is no guarantee that Sabadao will not be deported and his case may not even come up for review within this period of time. Hence, we are anxious to get the personal attention of Minister Solberg. in order to ensure that his case be reviewed immediately, or that his request to be accepted on humanitarian grounds be granted. he coming days and weeks are critical to the resolution of Sabadao’s case which is so complicated that it will take a legal expert to explain why Sabadao is in this precarious situation for such a long period of nine years. His lawyers appeared to have done everything possible to present a well-documented file, but this is useless unless the Immigration Department agrees to review his case. On the other hand, if the law called “IRPA” or Immigration Refugee Protection Act, is in effect, Sabadao’s case could have been resolved properly. For unexplained reasons, both the previous Liberal and the current Conservative governments have not proceeded to declare the law to be in force. It appears that the law is not a priority at all. Why then did Parliament pass it in the first place and just leave it on the shelf to gather dust? Who among our MP’s will have the interest or courage August 2006 to raise the question why this law is not being enacted? Now that we see how this law could have given protection to people like Sabadao, do we have the interest to work together in letting our political representatives follow up on this issue? e have not even solved the problem of Sabadao, and we are faced with another case which also needs community support. Laila Elumbra, a live-in caregiver is reported to be facing deportation for not completing the requirements of 24 months’ employment through no fault of her own because she suddenly fell W Does the Conservative government have any interest in developing closer ethnic relations? sick with a serious, rare disease. However, Immigration has denied her landed immigrant status and she is now subject to deportation. This is again another case illustrating the inherent injustices in the immigration laws. Unless they are reviewed and amended to reflect the human aspects in the interpretation of laws, we will have many people who will be deported needlessly and unjustly. There should have been a more compassionate treatment of cases like that of Elumbra and Sabadao. But since the law is implemented by government bureaucrats whose job is to base their decisions to the exact letter of the law, there is a need to appeal to the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration to intervene so that their cases can be reviewed accordingly. ut we are not sure how the Honorable Minister of Citizenship and Immigration will respond to our pleas. It is also a problem of communicating with someone who may not have had any contact with the Filipino community at all. On the other hand, if the whole community will react and show their involvement by way of sending written messages to the Minister’s office, perhaps, he will be curious enough to meet with us and accept our petition in person. Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Editor & Publisher Coordinates of Government Offices to receive your messages 1. Hon. Monte Solberg, P.C., M.P. Minister of Citizenship & Immigration 365 Laurier West, 21st Floor Jean Edmonds Tower South Ottawa, ON K14 1L1 Telephone: 613-992-4516 Fax: 613-957-2688 E-Mail: Solberg.M@parl.gc.ca 2. Honoraable Vic Toews Minister of Justice & Attorney General of Canada Suite 306, Justice Building House of Commons Ottawa. Ont. K1A 0A6 3.Right Honorable Stephen Harper Prime Minister of Canada 80 Wellington Street Ottawa, ON K1A 0A2 Telephone: Fax: 613-941-6900 E-Mail: pm@pm.gc.ca Mayon Volcano spews deadly gas, debris August 14 2006 Explosions of deadly gas and debris shook the Mayon Volcano in the eastern Philippines as scientists warned that the volcano has entered the more dangerous phase of its eruption on Monday. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said Monday afternoon that the peak in Albay province, 330km south-east of A journey of a thousand miles start with a single step Lao Tzu Divisoria cubao Filipino Solidarity Cooperative 4711 Van Horne Avenue, Montreal, QCH3W 18 Tel. 514-733-8915 More choices, competitive prices! B • Frozen/Refrigerated products • Dry Goods • Fruits & Vegetables • Canned Goods, Oil, Vinegar, Spices • Juice, Soft Drinks, Snacks • Rice, Cereals, Noodles • Barong Tagalog • Phone Cards • Health, Beauty and Home Care Products • Ladies, Childlren’s Wear • Souvenirs • Miscellaneous new items added daily Tangkilikin ang sariling atin para umunlad Help yourself by supporting your own cooperative. The Noth American Filipino Star SUBSCRIPTION Name:___________________________________________________ Address:_________________________________________________ Telephone: Residence:____________ Office: ________________ Enclose a cheque or money order for: 1 year or 12 issues$28 2 years or 24 issues$45 4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse (5th Floor) near Snowdon Metro Montreal, QCH3W 1X3 Tel.: 514-485-7861 E-Mail: filipinostar2@yahoo.com Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Chief Editor & Publisher Dr. Victor Gavino Esther Stansfield Lina V. Frnandez Riza Esmeralda Columnists Lourdes Fabia Entertainment News Editor Bert Abiera Founder Michael Davantes Contributing Editor Nida Verginom Butaran Mary Joy Lizarondo Sales Representatives Opinions, comments of writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect that of the management of Filcan Publications, Inc. www.filipinostar.org August 2006 Manila, had generated eight mild explosions during the past 24 hours. Sixteen volcanic earthquakes, which indicate active magma ascent into the crater, and 322 tremor episodes associated with the collapse of fragments from the advancing lava flow were also recorded during this period," it said in a bulletin. The institute warned that more "pyroclastic flows," or clouds of blistering gas and debris that travel at high speed and could incinerate anything in their path, would occur in the following days "due to progressing explosions." Philippines needs urgent help to contain worst ever oil spill August 16 2006 The Philippines has appealed for help to combat the country's worst ever oil spill which has polluted a major marine reserve and threatened the livelihoods of thousands of fishermen. Coastguard officials said they were struggling to cope with the scale of the environmental disaster caused by the Lava cascades down the slope of Mount sinking of the tanker Solar I last week Mayon Volcano near Legazpi City, south of with over 520,000 gallons of industrial fuel on board. Manila, August 19, 2006 AFP foils terror bomb plot in Jolo The tanker went down on Friday in rough seas in the Panay Gulf between the central islands of Panay and Guimaras. Eighteen of the crew were August 18 2006 rescued but two remain missing, the A terrorist plot to bomb the island coastguard said. of Sulu in southern Philippines on Thursday was foiled after the military uncovered 3,000 blasting caps aboard a passenger ship and another of the same number left in an abandoned tricycle in the wharf of Jolo, police said. Lt. Col. Susthenes Valcorza, information officer of the Armed Forces Southern Command, said a 45-year old suspect from Sibuto in the nearby island of Tawi-Tawi, was arrested. The suspect whose name was not disclosed for the time being, is undergoing tactical interrogation conducted by Armed Forces intelligence operatives in Jolo. The blasting caps were concealed in two backpacks, each containing 3,000 blasting caps, one hidden at the upper deck of M/V Ever Queen Emilia, Fishermen collect oil by hand from a beach in a passenger vessel, and the other in an Brgy Tando village, Guimaras Island in the abandoned tricycle parked at the Philippines 18 August, 2006 wharf. We don't have the capability right The crewmen reported to the now to salvage sunken vessels this police about a bomb threat they deep. That's why we're seeking received. Immediately the military and international support," said Coastguard police's Explosive and Ordnance spokesman Lieutenant-Commander Demolition Team (EODT) went to the Joseph Coyme. pier. As reported earlier the EODT Other coastguard officials told AFP found 3,000 blasting caps from an the government wanted to hire foreign abandoned tricycle and another 3,000 salvage crews to refloat the tanker and were discovered at the upper deck of well as specialist vessels to contain the the vessel. Dr. Sima Goel is not spineless when trying to cure what ails us! A word of caution here: If you're spineless, don't read another word. And I mean that in the most literal fashion. If you're an amoebae, worm or some other sort of invertebrate, stop right here. This column, dealing with Dr. Sima Goel, would have no appeal to you whatsoever, so, really, what's the point? I, on the other hand, have a spine, and meeting Goel, who is a Doctor of Chiropractic, proved to be spine tingling in so many ways. Iranian-born and 40, she has had her practice in Decarie Square for 12 years now. Her 1983 arrival in Montreal was quite exciting, to say the least. Since then, now married with two young sons, she has kept the excitement levels up by helping her patients reach optimal health through natural chiropractic care. "Health is by choice, not by chance," she told me right off' much as a caring mother giving advice. "We don't randomly get sick, levels of toxicity (too much sitting, fatty food etc) and deficiencies (lack of exercise, lack of spinal hygiene, lack of movement etc) determine our level of health. Dr Goel specializes in care for her patients as a whole, not just for the pain the patient complains about; she works to correct cause of the problem. Correction of subluxation (damaging pressure cause by a shift in spinal vertebrae) is the primary goal. Poor posture is also an indication of subluxation. Subluxation is our body's attempt to adapt to our chronic stressful lifestyle, such as sitting to long, car accidents, sports injuries, falls, sedentary living and repetitive movement. The trauma from these episodes is cumulative. No amount of drugs or surgery will cure 3 The North American Filipino Star It urged residents to stay clear out of the seven-kilometre danger zone around the volcano and eight kilometres on the south-east sector. Close to 43 000 people residing around the volcano have fled to evacuation centres since last week. Mayon Volcano, famous for its almost perfect cone, has been acting up since February and began to spew lava on July 15 in what volcanologists called a "quiet eruption" that attracted foreign and local tourists. The 2 472m volcano has erupted about 50 times since 1616. It last came to life in a series of eruptions in 2001, forcing about 50 000 people to evacuate but causing no casualties. Its most violent eruption was in 1814 when more than 1 200 people were killed and a town was buried in volcanic mud. An eruption in 1993 killed 79 people. the detrimental effects of subluxation. You may ask how do I know if I have subluxation? You would not know at the early stages and that is why subluxation is called the “silent killer”. However at later stages the pain is a red flag that your body can't cope with anymore. Symptoms such as head aches, migraines, arthritis, neck pain, lower back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, fatigue, depression, insomnia, sinus allergies, lack of concentration, and weight gain are just a few examples. We are suffering from too many illnesses that are preventable. Providing sufficiency and purity to our body is the only way to change our health crisis. Weekly seminars are given on a wide range of health-related issues, such as "Scientific research on who gets well and who stays sick", spinal hygiene, exercise and even meditation classes are available. "I want to empower people to take charge of their health and build the foundation of happiness and joy. If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, and in the spirit of holidays I have an offer for you that could really change your life. We are offering you a special price for your initial consultation; normally $210.00 will be offered to you at $45.00. ACT NOW this offer is only valid for a very limited time. Further care is very affordable and you’ll be happy to know that I have affordable family plans. You can call Dr. Goel at DECARIE SQUARE FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC (located at 6900 Decarie Blvd #340 , near Winners). Our phone number is: 514-344-6118. -Dr. Sima Goel, chiropractor, D.C. www.filipinostar.org See OIL SPILL, page 6 See BOMB PLOT, page 7 4 From Page 1 The North American Filipino Star Volunteer August 2006 Gilmore College Volunteer of the Year 2006 Search Gilmore College is now accepting nominations for the Volunteer of the Year Award 2006 Gilmore College opened its doors to the public on November 1, 1989. Its VOLUNTEER AWARD APPLICATION FORM actual incorporation was on August 2, OBJECTIVE: 1989 but it took four months to prepare To recognize an exemplary Last Name _____________________________________________________ the application for the necessary achievement in volunteerism in the First name _____________________________________________________ education permit. Its last gala Filipino Canadian community in the Address: ______________________________________________________ celebration was held on October 30, province of Quebec. ______________________________________________________________ 1999 at the Queen Elizabeth Hotel Postal Code ___________________________________________________ when it celebrated the 10th ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Anyone residing in Quebec of Tel.: Day time: ________________ Evening __________________________ anniversary. E-Mail: ______________________ Fax: _____________________________ Now in its 17th year, Gilmore Filipino origin and who meets the Please attach: College is expanding its programme critieria of unpaid volunteer work is 1. Personal photo (for publication purposes) offerings which will include the Nursing eligible to be nominated or to apply 2. Curriculum vitae which includes personal, educational and Assistant profile, designed to serve for this award. The candidate must professional background. foreign graduates of nursing and also be unelected and have been 3. List of your volunteerism experience (You may use form medically-related fields such as doing volunteer work for the Filipino provided with this application form or add separate sheet if midwifery and physiotherapy. Due to community. necessary. the linguistic requirements, foreign HOW TO APPLY Complete an application 4. Supporting documents such as newspaper clippings, graduates have a hard time practicing 1. photocopies of awards/or “thank you” notes. the professions for which they have form. Copies are available at various 5. List the names of the persons signing your 2 letters of been trained for in their native countries Filipino establishments and may be recommendations Consequently, they are often downloaded from the Filipino Star 1. Name__________________________________________________ underemployed, work long hours and website - www.pinostar.org Attach curriculum vitae and Address: _______________________________________________ are paid less than others who have 2. _______________________________________________________ lower education. Realizing that there include supporting documents. Two letters of Tel. ______________________ E-Mail _________________________ is a big need to serve this group of 3. 2. Name _________________________________________________ people who may never have a chance recommendations must be signed Address:_______________________________________________ to go to a regular school to retrain, and sealed and submitted to the Chairperson of the Volunteer Award Tel. ______________________ E-Mail _________________________ Gilmore College administration has Committee. decided to meet the challenge and Send your nomination and Signature of Applicant _____________________________________________ design a program that will meet the 4. needs of both the employers and the curriculum vitae on or before September 28, 2006 to: Signature of nominating person (if applicable) employees. Edith Fedalizo ________________________________________________________ The time seems to have arrived for 6355 Cumberland Ave. Print Name ______________________________________________ Gilmore College to fulfill a unique role Montreal, Quebec H3V 2P1 Address: ________________________________________________ in the Filipino community. According to Tel: (514) 485-7281 Tel.: _________________________ E-Mail _____________________ Mr. Isaac Goodine, a noted E-Mail: Date: _________________________ international educator, Gilmore e is a efedalizo@sympatico.ca community resource that is under used. But this situation may change once things get sorted out and linkages established with other institutions here and in the Philippines. With the GILMORE COLLEGE internationalization of education which Mr. Goodine has been covering in his VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR SEARCH monthly column in the North American Filipino Star, there are splendid opportunities for Gilmore College to APPLICANT’S NAME:_____________________________________________________________ Comments Impact on recipients of Description of volunteer work provide special programs to meet the Date of volunteer work volunteer work needs of new arrivals in Montreal. In fact, there is a pilot project being set up in the Philippines, India and China to make the transition of foreign graduates easier. A pre-departure training will be provided in these countries. The other part of the project Name___________________________Year______________________________________ is to provide courses for their integration and orientation into Course or courses successfully completed____________________________________ Photo Canadian society upon their arrival Address: __________________________________________________________________ here. Gilmore College will be actively Telephone: ________________________E-Mail:_________________________________ pursuing the work required to make the linkage with the centers being Favorite quotes or Present occupation or business:_____________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________ organized in these three countries. proverb Gilmore College Alumni 2006 Yearbook Marking the 17th Anniversary Future goal or plans: See Page 5 Volunteer F. FARHAT LUNETTERIE 10% off For Students & Seniors Eye examination on site • • • • Guess Easy-Clip Versace and many more designer rands Bring this ad to get 5540 Cote des Neiges (cor. St. Kevin) 1274 Mount Royal East www.filipinostar.org 10% discount. 514-340-0135 514-527-8201 5 The North American Filipino Star August 2006 Although Gilmore College has operated on a small scale, there are approximately over a thousand people who have passed its doors. It will be interesting to make a historical record of this accomplishment by welcoming former students of Gilmore to attend its 17th anniversary celebration and to be part of a yearbook. All alumni (those who finished at least one or more courses) are urged to send via a form for this purpose (see page 4) a brief information about themselves, i.e. what they have done or accomplished after they have left the College. Perhaps, they have pursued a new career and are successful in their chosen fields. A list of former students will show the name, year, and subjects taken. A photo, if available, will also be included As this yearbook may take some time, those who are interested in this project should contact the school and indicate their interest in having a copy of this yearbook which will be forwarded to them before the end of the year. Plans for the dinner dance party are still being prepared. Tentatively, a guest speaker in the field of nursing or related field will be invited as guest of honor. The second group of graduates in the nursing aid program will receive their certificates. Lots of door prizes, entertainment, dancing, lively music and surprise numbers are expected to be part of the celebration and a souvenir program will be printed. Businesses and other community associations who want to advertise in it will be welcomed. For further information, please call 514-485-7861. More details will be announced in the September issue of the North American Filipino Star. Gilmore College 17th Anniversary October 28, 2006 - 6:00 P.M. Ruby Rouge Restaurant Call 514-485-7861 for Tickets Education raises the bar but lowers the barriers to a rewarding career. Enroll now at Gilmore College. We promote educational leadership and caring attitude in the health care profession. We believe that knowledge is critical to take the lead in global citizenship. Call 514-485-7861 Step up and join the to register by appointment trade professionals Courses Earn your C.I.T.P. title. • PSW (PAB) or Nursing Aid • Early Childhood Education Assistant • Medical Assistant • Legal/Administrative Office Assistant • Office Technology • Accounting & Bookkeeping • Micro-computers • Keyboarding, • Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, Powerpoint, Accpac Simply • Accounting/Bookkeeping • Languages - English, French, Spanish, Mandarin, Filipino language (Tagalog) • Human Resources Development (customized) • Leadership Training Seminars • Seminars - Writing, Inter-cultural Communication Personal Support Worker (PSW) Gilmore College has an intensive comprehensive training program in Montreal for personal support workers (nursing aides).Graduates have a 100% job opportunity as there is an increasing demand for health care workers. Office Assistant C.I.T.P. The global economy needs trade professionals who will put your business in the international arena. International Trade Program • Global Entrepreneurship • International Marketing • International Trade Finance • International Trade Logistics • International Market Entry & Distribution • International Marketing Research • Legal Aspects of International Trade • International Trade Management • An Introduction to the Cultural Aspects of International Trade FORUM FOR INTERNATIONALTRADE TRAINING We offer flexible schedules and budget payment plans. Foreign students are welcome. - Certified International Trade Professional FORUM POUR LA FORMATION EN COMMERCE INTERNATIONAL FITT Weekdays - 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM Evenings - 6:00 to 9:00 PM Weekends - 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Gilmore College is an accredited delivery partner of FITT (Forum for International Trade Training) Daycare Assistant GILMORE (INTERNATIONAL) COLLEGE 4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse (5th Fl.) Montreal, Quebec H3W 1X3 (Snowdon Metro) Tel.: 514-485-7861 Fax: 514-485-3076 E-Mail: enquiry@gilmorecollege.com www.gilmorecollege.com Our courses are recognized by: A private college founded in 1989 For your document requirements: Affidavits, wills, special power of attorney, etc. Tel.: 514-297-4365 514-738-7999 Fax: 514-738-3297 Reynaldo Balansi Need Money? Do you have a full time job? If yes, call (514) 344-1499 AND GET CASH NOW! Commissioner for Oaths (Commission No. 170 586) 4089-A Kent Avenue Montreal, Quebec H3S 1N5 Good & Bad Credit Accepted Nardingbalansi@,sn.com www.filipinostar.org 6 The North American Filipino Star Global Perspectives Isaac T. Goodine Building on a Canadian Legacy in the Internationalization of Education and Training When Willie Sutton, the legendary American Bandit, was asked why he persisted in robbing banks he replied: “Because that’s where the money is”. This piece was prompted by a personal honour bestowed on me by the Colombo Plan Staff College for Technician Education recently. The Staff College, based in Manila, has appointed me to the honorary position of Advisor to the Secretary General and Governing Board, representing Canada. This also carries a responsibility to encourage Canadians to become re-engaged in international work and re-kindle some of the cooperative spirit that placed Canada among the most effective providers of human resource development both in Canada and abroad for many years, prior to the early 1990s. At that time there developed a hiatus that resulted in Canadians being under-represented in the arena of international development. CIDA abandoned its policy of sharing our future “through the lens of human resource development”; Canada withdrew from the Colombo Plan and the Colombo Plan Staff College; closed its Canada-ASEAN Office in Singapore and Canada’s efforts in economic diplomacy focused mainly on trade with the USA and NAFTA. In the meantime, opportunities for Canadians to fully participate in developments financed by other agencies were overlooked. There was little Canadian involvement involvement in the activities of the International Financial Institutions, such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, where the money is, From the 1950s, there was steady expansion of economic integration which far outpaced both political and cultural integration. The last ten years have brought about cultural interdependence, because of television and the Internet, and we are moving to one world in culture as well as economics. The earlier phase of integration of economic activities of trade, finance, and investment has generally been referred to as “Globalization”, and the broader aspects such as educational exchanges and intercultural activities are now referred to as “Internationalization”. The global market place has created a new labor market, where the trans-national work force has grown to over 80 million, making trans-national employment the most effective and equitable means of distribution of wealth. Twelve years ago (1994) the World Bank indicated that annual “remittances” from trans-national workers had transferred more money from developed economies to the Third World than the total amount transferred by all development agencies combined. The trans-national labor market implies the concept of a team that is multi-disciplined and transcends national boundaries. The success of these teams depends heavily on the internationalization of the learning process for the workforce and their managers, wherever the Learning and skills development takes place. Building and leading these teams is extremely difficult and the success of international business and social development efforts depend on a unique set of qualities of the team leader. In view of the importance of cross-cultural technology transfer through the trans-national work force, leadership development for those who deal in human capital, surely presents a major challenge. This is a particular challenge in regards to the fostering of international understanding between all the stakeholders in international development efforts. Likewise, there must be a capacity to facilitate participative and democratic administration, wherever the operations take place. The nature of Participative-Democratic Administration as it applies to a comprehensive and integrated international undertaking or enterprise includes: (a) Administration as Government and Policy Direction: legislative, executive and judicial functions for establishing and promulgating policy and intent; (b) Administration as Planning and Resource Allocation: developing strategic and operational plans to achieve the intended goals and objectives within the technical and financial criteria established as policy; (c) Administration as Management: the management of plant and personnel including establishing and maintaining administrative structures and procedures for securing and managing financial, human, physical, and informational resources; (d) Administration as Supervision and Coordination : internal coordination, within the institutional framework, and external coordination with stakeholders in commerce and industry and with civil society at the local, national, and International levels; and (e) Administration as Monitoring Evaluation and Dissemination: continuous evaluation of results, problem solving, continuous learning from experience, and adjusting to changing needs. It is precisely to address such challenges that the CPSC exists. Since Canada was a founding member of the Colombo Plan, in 1950, and Staff College in 1973, Canadians have made a significant contribution to its success as a learning organization, there are pools of experience and wisdom scattered throughout the world that stem from a Canadian source. This gives Canadians credibility in the concept of internationalization through education and training. The legacy of the Colombo Plan is twofold as it provided both a concept and a mechanism for achieving prosperity together through participatory human development. The concept of the Colombo Plan is based on a shared vision that we are citizens of the world and not just citizens of Nation States and that a cosmopolitan approach to international development would accomplish three main goals: (i) Economic development would contribute to the social and political stability of the participating countries and thus would enhance the prospects for peace in the world; (ii) The development of trade is vital for the countries of the area and for the continuing expansion of a world economy based on multilateral trade; and (iii) Economic advancement would unlock the cultural resources of the area to the benefit of people everywhere. The mechanism, was an Administrative Structure that facilitated Participative Democratic Administration and it was called the Colombo Plan for Co-operative Economic and Social Development in Asia and Pacific. Part of the reason for the Plan’s success is that it is not a “Plan’ in a strictly economic sense. It is in fact a forum for the encouragement of self-help and a means whereby bilateral assistance is stimulated. Ethno-centric tendencies give way to consensus gained through discussion and accommodation. Canada’s Lester B. Pearson was one of the seven founding fathers of the Colombo Plan and subsequently, after the Colombo Plan Staff College was established, and while it was hosted by the Government of Singapore, Canada’s Ambassador, H.E. Mr. R.K. Thompson, served as Chairman of the Board of the Staff College during 1976-77. Later, after the College moved to the Philippines, Canada’s Ambassador, H.E. Mr. David www.filipinostar.org August 2006 Thompson, served as Chairman of the Board during 1987-88. Then, I, Isaac Goodine, served as the Fifth Director of CPSC during 1991-92, after serving for two years as a member of the Standing Committee of the Governing Board. Under the Colombo Plan, approximately 400,000 people have benefited from long term scholarships to study in a foreign country, many in Canada. Also about 130,000 Experts, including some Canadians, have carried out long-term assignments of Technical Assistance in the region under the Plan. The Staff College has alumni of over 19,000 senior level staff from 20 countries who have attended one or more of the CPSC programs. Although Canada is no longer an active member of the Colombo Plan, there is a reservoir of expertise and cultural understanding that Canadians have helped to foster throughout the World. a From Page 3 OIL SPILL slick, which is around 460 kilometres (280 miles) south of Manila. Coyme said the challenge was to contain the 19.5 nautical-mile-long slick off the southern coast of Guimaras and to plug the leaking tanker which is resting on the seabed in around 3,000 feet (900 metres) of water. Local salvage crews have so far attempted to put booms around the spill to prevent it spreading, but their work has been severely hampered by rough seas. The slick has hit more than 200 kilometres (125 miles) of coastline damaging mangrove swamps, seaweed plantations and coral reefs containing popular dive sites, said Joaquin Carlos Nava, governor of Guimaras province. He estimated the spill, which has been described by the coastguard as the worst in the history of the Southeast Asian country, would take over a year to clean up. Three coastguard vessels have been dispatched from Manila and the nearby port of Batangas to combat the pollution which Coyme said threatened to spread north and south towards the Visayan Sea. "If we can't apply physical barriers it will pass through the Visayan Sea," he From Page 3 7 The North American Filipino Star August 2006 said. However Coyme said the slick was unlikely to reach the resort island of Boracay off Panay's northern coast. The island is the Philippines's top tourist attraction and is famed for its white sand beaches. Governor Nava said that in his province alone up to 10,000 fishermen and their families were being affected by the disaster. "It is not only the coastline and fishing industries that are affected but also the tourism industry," he said. "We are looking at the possible evacuation and support for our displaced fisherfolk. We don't know how long this (cleanup) will take," he told ABS-CBN television. a BOMB PLOT The ship carrying an undetermined number of passengers, including infants was about to depart for Bongao, the capital of Tawi-Tawi, the Philippines' southernmost island province, when the explosives were found. Concerned government agencies like the coastguard, maritime police and port police have further strengthened security measures in all ports of the country following the discovery of the bomb plot hatched by the al-Qaeda linked Abu Sayyaf.. Valcorza said the blasting caps could be used by supporters of the Abu Sayyaf Group to carry out bombings as a diversionary tactic to ease pressure against them in the hinterlands of Sulu. So far, 11 Abu Sayyaf, including a mid-level leader, were killed since the offensive started last August 1 in Sulu province. The offensive was launched following reports that Bali bombing masterminds Umar Patek and Dulmatin of the JI were seen together with top Abu Sayyaf leaders in the province. Earlier this month, British authorities uncovered a terrorist plan to blow up commercial airlines bound for the United States. a Impeachment dead: House justice panel rules complaint lacks substance August 17 2006 The House Committee on Justice on Wednesday threw out the impeachment complaint against President Arroyo, ruling that it lacked sufficient substance to form the basis of a trial in the Senate. Fifty-six committee members, all supporters of the Arroyo administration, voted to drop the case; 24 from the minority voted for the complaint. The pro-impeachment group has one last chance to revive the case by calling a vote in the plenary session, but again the odds will be against them. Rep. Simeon Datumanong, the committee chairman, said he will submit a report to the Committee on Rules not later than Monday. “We expect plenary action on the committee report by next week,” he said. The minority leader, Francis Escudero, said the pro-impeachment lawmakers “presented our case in its complete form but we were never given the chance to present our case.” Earlier, pro-impeachment supporters in the gallery halted proceedings after they fanned themselves with white envelopes symbolizing the payoffs received by the lawmakers who were against impeachment. The disturbance prompted Datumanong to transfer the hearing to a smaller venue, the Andaya Hall. As members of the committee stood up to proceed to the Andaya Hall, the crowd let out a howl. The House majority leader, Prospero Nograles, was disappointed at the crowd’s behavior. “We can’t do anything about it, and so we have no choice but to transfer the venue to limit the audience,” he said. The hearing resumed at the Gilmore College session hall after the spectators quieted down. Last year a similar case against Mrs. Arroyo was also voted down. At least one-third of the 234-member House, or 78 congressmen, is needed to transmit the Articles of Impeachment to the Senate for trial. Eight complaints were filed at the start of Congress last month. The justice committee decided the first seven were submitted even before the one-year ban on impeachment cases against a President had elapsed, and considered only the case filed by the Black and White Movement. The new complaint included allegations of massive electoral fraud during the 2004 election, graft and corruption, and political killings under the present administration. President Arroyo’s allies maintained that the complaint had a weak basis to make the charges stick. Reps. Matias Defensor of Quezon City, Douglas Cagas of Davao City and Luis Villafuerte of Camarines Sur all found the complaint too general, “accusations made in generalities.” Cagas, a staunch ally of Mrs. Arroyo, said the complaint was “premature” since the facts were not recited sufficiently. Villafuerte noted the complaint consisted of “presumptuous conclusions of facts” and “does not define specific offense.” Rep. Edcel Lagman, the committee vice-chairman, saw the complaint as “an exact reproduction of the previous seven, except for the variance in complainants and endorsers” and as “oozing in propaganda.” But the opposition said the mere fact Mrs. Arroyo’s allies prevented them from presenting evidence clearly indicates that the President is guilty as charged. Escudero argued that all charges listed as charged against Mrs. Arroyo were all committed under her term. The senior deputy minority leader, Allan Peter Cayetano, criticized the “double standard” of existing laws: one for the ordinary people and the other for the President and the First Family, which do not hold them accountable for their crimes. a Erap condemns attempt to arrest son August 17 2006 Ex-president Joseph Estrada on Wednesday termed as "unjustifiable and unlawful" the attempt by Malacañan to arrest his son, Sen. Jose "Jinggoy" Estrada over a libel suit filed by President Arroyo's husband. "This is a warning to the opposition, that even illegal means will be used against [it] if [it persists] in [its] crusade for the truth," Estrada said in a press statement issued through spokesman Rufus Rodriguez. Rodriguez quoted the former president as saying that the botched arrest was a clear sign there would be no let-up in attempts to silence the opposition. The younger Estrada is leading the investigation into the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration fund mess. "What happened clearly illustrates this policy, but I know my son well enough to know that even the most blatant form of intimidation will not stop him from ferreting out the truth," Estrada said. The former president accused Malacañan of involvement in the attempted arrest after reports surfaced that Senate President Manuel Villar and others in the session hall overheard the arresting team leader saying, "Ano ang sasabihin namin sa Malacañan 'pag hindi namin nabitbit ito? (What are we going to say to Malacañan if we failed to arrest Estrada)?" The warrant issued by Branch 109 Judge Elmer Mitra of the Pasay City Regional Trial stemmed from the P10million suit lodged by Mr. Arroyo after the senator alleged that Jose Miguel "Mike" Arroyo was harboring big-time smugglers in Manila. The senator scored the court in a privileged speech before the Senate after the warrant was issued. "The police cannot arrest any senator for the crime of libel while Congress is in session," he said. " a Try out this new restaurant on the block! Good food, best prices! (in collaboration with Concord Tours) 4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse Montreal, QCH3W 1X3 (opposite Snowdon Metro) Summer’sHERE -time to travel Strong Canadian dollars. Guess what? It’s the right time to travel to U.S.A. Washington DC, New York, Atlantic City, Philadelphia 4-day Tour Cost: Adult starting at $238, Child $158 Departure date:Every Saturday Statue of Liberty, Ground Zero, Waall Street, Empie State Building, United Nations Headquarters Building, Washington Bridge, Philipladelphia citytour, White House, Lincoln Memorial, Capitol Hill, Atlantic City Wo k & T h é Re s t a u r a n t 6254 Cote des Neiges (near Kent) Montreal, QC Telephone: 514-731-2184 Lunch Special The best fo o d and the l owest prices in town! $4.60 tax included • Tom Yum Noodle Soup with Beef or • Chow Ho Style Thai with chicken Call 514-485-7861 for reservations. Toronto, 1000 Islands, Niagara Falls 2-Day Tour Cost: Adult starting at $108, Child: $88 Departure date:Every Saturday 1000 Islands, Ontario Parliament Bldg., Toronto University, Chinatown, Nathan Philip Square, CN Tower, Niagara Falls, Marineland Seaworld,etc. Family Combo for 2 $12.95 tax included Chicken or Corn Soup General Tao Chicken Beef with Mixed Vegetables Rice Party Reservations Capacity: 70 people www.filipinostar.org Other choices for 4 or 6 persons available. Come and try f re s h ly c o o ke d fo o d made just for you! PROFESSIONAL CHEFS Chinese and Thai cuisines Free Delivery - Minimum $10 5:30 - 9:30 P.M. 10% off for pickup 8 The North American Filipino Star Community News Deportation of caregiver deepens debate on Live-In Caregiver Program For immediate release July 27, 2006 Press conference held in response to Elumbra's denial for permanent residency Cecilia Diocson, Executive Director of the National Alliance of Philippine Women in Canada (NAPWC). Elumbra came to Canada in May (Left to right) Honorary Consul General Salvador Cabugao, Laila Elumbra, and Jose Calugay. A press conference was held July 27 at the Philippine Women Centre of Quebec, in response to Citizenship and Immigration Canada's (CIC) denial of Ms. Laila-Suan Elumbra's application for permanent residency under the Live-In Caregiver Program (LCP). Three speakers were present during the conference, Laila-Suan 2003 as a live-in caregiver and worked for twenty-two months thereafter. At this time, she fell into a coma and was hospitalized for eight months before she was able to speak or move. In February, her work permit expired along with her medical insurance. Elumbra went public and appealed to the Canadian government and temporary health insurance until June 2007. However, she received notice on July 17th advising that a sympathetic review was placed on both her visitor's status and permanent residency applications, however, neither was approved. In response to her application's denial, Elumbra states, "I've only ever wanted to work in Canada and did not choose to become sick, it has been very depressing and disappointing to receive the denial." "The case of Elumbra shows how the LCP places all women under this program in very vulnerable and precarious situations." says Diocson. She furthers, "the political and economic conditions of the Philippines push Filipinos to work abroad for survival and is promoted by the Philippine government to help keep the economy afloat. Without their monetary remittances, the Philippine economy would have been bankrupt a long time ago." Waddell shares her perspective as a Canadian women, "It is troubling to see a program that is an aberration to feminism by dividing white middle class women and working class women of colour, that this policy so clearly illustrates." The deportation of caregivers are increasing across the country. In Vancouver, Emelda Emnace received a notice to leave the country when long government bureaucratic processing delayed the approval of her new work permit beyond the expiry date of her old work permit. The NAPWC has been calling for CIC to return to the roundtable for further dialogue and critically examine the LCP and scrapping of the policy, as Canada has the responsibility to uphold equality, human rights and most importantly, dignity for all. Laila (second from left) is showing remarkable progress. Photo taken during the fund raising party at Hickson Fraser Library, with Zenaida Kharroubi, Hermie Arguilles and Minerva Torrico. Elumbra, a domestic worker, Ms. Amélie Waddell, French spokesperson for the Philippine Women Centre of Quebec (PWC of Quebec), and Ms. Canadians to support her case for medical insurance and grant her permanent residency. Successfully, the Quebec government granted www.filipinostar.org August 2006 For more information, please contact Joanne Vasquez or Amélie Waddell at (514) 678-3901. a From Page 1 Sabadao documents and a copy of the Filipino Star July issue were sent to the Immigration Minister on July 26, requesting him to receive a small delegation of concerned citizens. On August 14, 2006, his scheduling assistant named Aliya telephoned Zenaida Kharroubi to ask her to mail the petition to the Minister. Disappointed with the reply, she immediately wrote a follow-up letter requesting him to reconsider his decision. Copies of this letter were sent to the Office of the Prime Minister of Canada, the Right Honorable Stephen Harper, to the Honorable Minister of Public Safety Stockwell Day, the Honorable Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Vic Toews, and to His Excellency, Ambassador Jose Brillantes. The Prime Minister’s Office immediately acknowledged having received a copy of the message sent by e-mail. As of press time, there is no reply yet from Mr. Solberg’s office whether he is willing to meet us at all. However, the supporters of Sabadao are determined to find ways and means of getting the attention of the government as time is running short. They must now act more decisively to support the Sabadao family to remain together in Canada. a Reserve your tickets now for the Gilmore College’s 17th anniversary - Call us at 514-485-7861 9 The North American Filipino Star August 2006 La Fête des enfants - Fun for Everyone! Montréall, Saturday August 19 2006 “La Fête des enfants de Montréal,” the family event of the summer, is in full swing this weekend at Maisonneuve park. It's under the theme of "Discoveries bringing us closer together" that the kick-off was given this morning in the presence of des sports with a grand gathering that will impress everyone! Your reference: La Fête's website To learn about the 2006 program, the many free services offered to families and to check out La Fête des enfants de Montréal's site map, visit ville.montreal.qc.ca/fetedesenfants. Gazette, Petitmonde.com, Montréal pour enfants and Radio Centre-Ville. We would also like to remind you that the following streets will be closed to traffic on August 19 and 20 between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. : Sherbrooke street between Viau street and Pie-IX boulevard and Viau street between Rosemont boulevard and Sherbrooke street. For further information please contact the Info-Fête Bell line at 514 872â ‘0060 or visit ville.montreal.qc.ca/fetedesenfants. Source : A. Asselin Chargée de communication - La Fête Gilmore College invites you to join its 17th anniversary celebration Saturday, October 28, 2006 Dinner-Dance Party and Graduation at Ruby Rouge Restaurant Chinatown Reserve your tickets by Calling 514-485-7861 The 2nd annual GK Mabuhay Walkbe a part of it! Mayor Gerald Tremblay presided over the opening of the Children’s Festival, August 19, 2006. He is flanked by the other dignitaries and the Montreal Scouts who assisted in the cutting of the paper dolls symbolizing the event. the Minister Responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, Mr. Geoffrey Kelley, Mayor Gérald Tremblay and Françoise Étienne Paré La Fête's spokesperson for a second consecutive year. "Today and tomorrow, hundreds of thousands of children and parents will participate in more than 120 various, amusing and educational activities, in an atmosphere that promotes exchanges. With a dozen new activities that you will certainly enjoy, the Ville de Montréal is particularly proud and happy to present La Fête des enfants de Montréal", declared Mayor Gérald Tremblay. Who knows, you might discover a new passion after taking part in a sport or cultural activity. A fantastic parade In this great multitude of novelties, an activity that already seems to be a family must of the summer is La Fête's parade! It will end both days with a colorful ride throughout the Maisonneuve park. Follow the rythms of the tom-toms and the Cadet's musical group, join the trains, the mascots and thousands of visitors strolling through the different site aisles from 5 p.m., today and tomorrow. It will end at the Rond-point You will also find the list of the Jean Coutu Pharmacies of the great metropolitan region that carry the official pass so you can benefit from a free ride in public transportation, thanks to the Societe de transport de Montreal“ La Fête's official carrier. On our website, you can also enter La Fête's contest in collaboration with TQS and get a chance to win $ 8000 in prizes. Contest boxes will also be located at the three Info-Fête Bell kiosks at Maisonneuve park during the whole weekend. The contest's rules and regulations are detailed on La Fête's website. Precious collaborators Presented by the Ville de Montréal, La Fête des enfants is made possible thanks to the support of the government of Québec, Bell, Jean Coutu Group, the Société de transport de Montréal à“ La Fête's official carrier -, the Union des producteurs agricoles, the Fédération des producteurs de porcs du Québec, Hydro-Québec, Lassonde, Jamieson, Groupe Berger, Motorola and KPMG. La Fête also has many media partners: TQS, TÃLÃTOON, Rock Détente 107.3 Montréal, Journal de Montréal, The By: Cerna desNidia enfants de Montréal On September 9, 2006, the second annual GK Walk, hosted by ANCOP International Canada, will take place simultaneously in major cities across Canada. ANCOP volunteers and Filipino association partners in Montreal will walk a route granted by the City of Montreal in the Côtedes-Neiges area to raise awareness and funds to build sustainable and holistic communities for the poor in the Philippines. The Gawad Kalinga Foundation, known simply as GK, has already built more than 17,000 homes around the world thanks to the collaboration of those who want to make a difference and improve the quality of life for the poor in developing countries. For Erwin Fausto, who just came back from the Philippines after a six month stint as a GK volunteer, it was an experience that was more rewarding than he expected: “There is a sense of fulfillment in doing something for those less fortunate. I was able to understand more about poverty, and I was able to see with my own eyes that there’s an actual solution to this worldwide problem,” he says. Gawad Kalinga (translated as “to give care”) has set its goal to transform povertystricken areas building 700,000 homes in 7000 GK communities in 7 years. Through the work of volunteers both in the Philippines and abroad, the GK Foundation has lowered the cost to build a house to $1500 CAD. Costs are kept low because GK is founded on “bayanihan” and volunteerism, which helps every dollar raised go farther. “When I was in the Philippines I saw that the money being raised goes where the Foundation says it’s going to go: straight to the beneficiaries,” adds Fausto. This year’s walk will include exhibitions on GK’s different programs as well as a model GK house. The Walk is called Mabuhay, which means “welcome” a friendly expression inviting Filipinos and non-Filipinos alike to be part of the GK miracle. In Montreal, GK Walk registration begins at 8A.M. at Van Horne Park at the corner of Westbury and De La Peltrie. To register as a participant or volunteer, please visit www.cfcmontreal.com/41.html Marababol at 514-769-2146. The GK Press Team poses for a souvenir photo during the launching of the GK Walk recently. Cuisine Santé international Website: www.csil.ca Cusine Santé International is currently expanding its new office on Decarie.We have openings for District Managers, Sales Managers and Sales Consultants to help with the overwhelming demand for our revolutionary multi-ply cookware.We will train you under excellent working conditions with excellent remuneration.You may also qualify for our all-expenses-paid company trip in December New Year’s Eve Caribbean Cruise 2006. Call now for a private interview and a start of your new, exciting career. Mike Ayoup, Vice-President 6900 Decarie Blvd. Suite 218 Cote St. Luc, QuebecH3X 2T8 Telephone: Fax: 514-223-4700 514-223-4344 www.filipinostar.org 10 The North American Filipino Star August 2006 A Culinary journey In Manila’s melting pot Filipino food still a favorite in the north Philippine Cusine Sinigang a Filipino dish for all seasons INGREDIENTS (Serves 4-6) • 1 tbsp tamarind pulp or 1 tsp concentrated tamarind pulp • 2/3 cup warm water • 2 tomatoes, roughly chopped • 115 gm spinach or Chinese kangkong leaves •115 gm cooked large prawns, (jumbo shrimps), thawed if frozen • 5 cups fish stock •1/2 mooli (daikon), peeled and finely diced • 115 gm French (green) beans, cut into 1 cm in lengths • 225 gm piece of cod or haddock fillet, skinned and cut into strips • Fish sauce, to taste •Lemon juice, to taste •Salt and ground black pepper • Plain boiled rice or noodles, to serve METHOD Put the tamarind pulp in a large bowl and pour in the warm water. Set aside. Peel and chop the tomatoes, discard the seeds. Strip the spinach or kangkong leaves from the stems and tear into small pieces. Set aside. Using your hands, remove the heads and shells from the prawns, leaving the tails intact. Pour the prepared fish stock into a large pan and add the finely diced mooli. Cook the mooli for five minutes, then add the chopped green beans. Continue to cook the stew gently for 3-5 minutes. Add the fish strips, tomatoes and spinach or kangkong leaves. Strain in the tamarind juice or add the concentrated tamarind, stir until dissolved, and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in the prawns and cook for 1-2 minutes. Season the stew with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and add a little fish sauce and lemon juice to taste. Transfer the stew to individual warmed serving bowls, and serve with either plain boiled rice or noodles. By Veronica L. De Jesus, in Manila By Jimmy C. Calapati The famous sugba-tuwa-kilaw (broiled over charcoal, cooked in boiling water with seasonings, marinated in vinegar and spices) or sutukil from Cebu is now in Manila. Situated within the grounds of Mabuhay Manor in the FB Harrison district, 30 minutes from the airport, Sutukil restaurant is worth the trip. Life & Times strongly recommends the sinigang na ulo ng salmon (salmon head in miso broth), whose tangy, sour taste is enough to perk you up on a lazy, gloomy, rainy day. When it comes to grilling, many establishments make the mistake of cooking the squid too long, making it tough and dry. At Sutukil, the gigantic pusit is grilled just right, retaining much of its sweetish, salty juices and tender meat. The garlic prawns with butter is just heavenly. As we Pinoys like to say, "sauce pa lang, ulam na!" Partnered with steaming hot rice, lato seaweed and red eggs ensalada, you have a combination that will make you forget about the other dishes on the table. Sutukil operates Dampa-style, where you point to the fresh fish and marine species you want to have for dinner and the kitchen cooks it for you. Mabuhay Manor caters to overseas contract workers who fly into Manila before heading home to the provinces, offering 114 superior, premium and deluxe rooms. According to Claude Bernacer, business development manager, the Manor offers shopping tours to returning or departing overseas contract workers—to Duty Free, Divisoria, Baclaran, Ayala Center, Greenhills—or wherever and whatever is their heart’s content. a Pinakabet or Bagnet on first-class hotels. Eating in a local resort that conforms to international standards. Local staffs trained by no less than the International School for Culinary Arts and Hotel Management. All these are dreams of Teresa and Wilfrido Tirona of Specialized Trade and Marketing, Inc.-better known as Stram Events. And they’re definitely doing their best to make these dreams happen thru the 1st Ilocandia Culinary Festival that will happen on July 29 to 31 at the St. Louis College Gym in San Fernando, La Union. Advertise in the Filipino Star now! Call 514-485-7861 Culinary Festival Technically speaking, this is the second time that we’ve been to the north. We visited Baguio last year and we staged the 1st Baguio Food and Drinks Fest," Teresa said. "We brought it down to the lowlands simply because during the 1st Baguio festival, 70 percent of the participants came from the lowlands and they were clamoring for us to bring the event to the lowlands." They said that Baguio is a good place to do something like this since it has practically the establishments needed for a successful staging. "Kaya lang, ung number ng participants, konti lang unlike sa baba," Teresa said. "Mas marami kasing mga resorts, hotels, restaurants sa lowlands that specializes on Ilocandia cuisine kaya its more practical to do it there," Wilfrido added. Stram is actually an events organizing company and this project is just a part of the many events that they have. Their main objective in organizing regional See CULINARY FESTIVAL, page 14 The North American Filipino Star Classified Ads ADVERTISING 9.99 First 3 lines $1.50 per extra line (maximum 4 words a line, font size 10 Classified Advertising- cheapest way to advertise! Call 514-485-7861 Ads must be prepaid. Send text via E-Mail to: filipinostar2@yahoo.com or Fax: 514-485-3076 COURSES Centre 2000 Professional Training Institute BOOKKEEPING September classes start soon cALL 514-485-7861 COMPUTERS • Business Data Base • Repairs & Trouble Shooting • Web Page Design Call Joseph - 514-651-9745 514-630-9701 ext. 273 DRIVING DUPLEX TO SHARE Do you want more privacy? Live in a duplex. Need 2 ladies to rent an upper duplex, quiet, bright, clean, equipped with fridge, stove, heated, newly painted, $300 /month Call 514-485-7861 for appointment Specials for Summer Courses offered: • • • • • • • Dental Assistant Dental Secretary Pharmacy Assistant Nursing Aide Daycare Provider Security Agent French Course (conversation) Saturdays available Info:Call 514-342-1000 4950 Queen Mary Rd. Suite 351 (Front of Snowdon Metro) Quebec certified driving instructor with 11 years experience in giving driving lessons. Exam car vailable Toton 514-969-9622 LECHON MOVING Anywhere in Canada Contact Joseph - 514-651-9745 514-489-6968, ext. 113 TUTORIAL • Mathematics • French • Physics • Science 514-485-7861 BigD's Lechon, telephone number (514) 426-9088 or VIDEO COURSE DRIVING LESSONS www.bigd-lechon.com. * Car available for EXAM * 1 hour practice only $25 (tax incl.) * Many examples of first time success * packages available MR. KHALIL (514) 965-0903 CONDO FOR SALE Would you like to learn how to make your own home movies? Enroll now in a basic video production course. Spacious 800 sq. ft.one-bedroom, close to Metro, low fees, locker,appliances, negotiable price (514) 734-5802 www.filipinostar.org Call 514-485-7861 11 The North American Filipino Star August 2006 contaminated from bacteria in human waste and garbage. According to United Nations statistics, as many as four billion people-two-thirds of global population--lack access to safe, clean water. Concern from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has spurred renewed efforts to increase education and distribute low-cost but needed tools such as antibiotics and sterile medical implements. “Some global health problems, like AIDS, have no easy solution--but this isn't one of them,” says computer-geek-turnedphilanthropist Bill Gates. “The world has an opportunity to stop millions of newborn deaths each year.” Debt and population issues are also among the underlying causes of this global tragedy. Some poor nations must pay more in service of international loans than on the Earth Talk From the Editors of E/The Environmental Magazine Dear EarthTalk: What are the leading causes of child mortality around the world, and what can be done about it? -- Susan Hale, Oquawka, IL The statistics are staggering. In the world’s poorest countries, over 30,000 children under the age of five die each day from preventable causes related to conditions of extreme poverty. Rock Star Bono and others tried to call attention to this fact last year in television ads showing wellknown celebrities snapping their fingers every three seconds, each snap representing another tragic child death. A baby girl born in Sub-Saharan Africa today faces a 22 percent risk of death by age 15, and more than a third of casualties are babies who don't survive their first month. They suffer from low birth weight due to their mothers’ poor nutrition, and then lack access to adequate nutrition themselves. The World Health Organization says that poverty-related malnutrition is the key factor in over half of all childhood deaths. Many children suffer from debilitating infections virtually right out of the womb, and analysts say that often casualties could be prevented if just basic sanitation were available. Drinking-water pollution is a leading culprit. In areas that lack proper sanitation and that may have just one water source, supplies can easily become planning aid to developing countries in the name of preventing abortions, though on June 9 of this year the House overwhelmingly adopted a bill to restore aid that had been previously cut. Says PAI, “U.S. leadership and investments in international family planning assistance are critical in order to ensure healthy mothers, healthy pregnancies, and ultimately, healthy families.” a CONTACTS: Make Poverty History Campaign, www.makepovertyhistory.org; Gates Foundation Child Health Program, ww.glf.org/GlobalHealth/Pri_Diseases/Child Health/default.htm; Population Action International, www.populationaction.org. GOT AN ENVIRONMENTAL QUESTION? Send it to: EarthTalk, c/o E/The Environmental Magazine, P.O. Box 5098, Westport, CT 06881; submit it at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/thisweek/, or e-mail: earthtalk@emagazine.com. Read past columns at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/archives.ph Children in developing countries struggle to survive in the face of water pollution and scarcity, lack of basic sanitation and poor nutrition.(Getty Images.) General Worker Manufacturing company located in Ville St. Laurent is looking for general workers. Salary: $8.25/h Language: English or French Apply in Person or call 514-739-9761 Contact: Amir Address:5770 Andover,Mantreall, QC H4T 1H4 IN MEMORIAM In Memory of Jaylen Jess Abelardo Teja Born December 12, 1997 Died July 24, 2006 health and education of their people. Yielding to pressure from “Make Poverty History” advocates, leaders of the world’s top industrialized nations last year agreed to cancel $40 billion in debt owed by the world’s 18 poorest countries. However, experts point out that this only covers about a sixth of the debt owed, for example, by African nations. And birth rates continue to soar well above the replacement level of two children per couple, and population is growing well beyond the “carrying capacity” of these poor countries. This has a profound effect on the environment as well as on human misery. According to Population Action International (PAI), “More than 200 million women in the developing world today wish to delay or end childbearing but do not have access to modern and effective contraceptives.” In spite of this, the Bush Administration has steadily cut family The family and friends of JAYLEN JESS A. TEJA wish to extend their sincere thanks to all those who sympathized with them in their hour of bereavement and who said prayers, gave donations and flowers. www.filipinostar.org The Filipino Star always strives to serve you! RESTAURANT LA MAISON NEW KUM MON 6565 Cote des Neiges, Montreal, QC (Corner Appleton) 5047 Henri Bourassa Est Montréal, QC H1G 2S1 Tel.: (514) 322-3133, 322-3130 Bean Curd Seafood Soup 1/2 Crispy Chicken Salt and Pepper Pork Loin Stuffed Bean Curd with Shrimps Sauted Seasonal Vegetables Steamed Rice $37.95 4 Persons Fish Maw Seafood Soup Baked Lobster with Ginger Seafood with Chinese Broccoli Saltand Pepper Cuttle Fish Fried Sea Bass Fish Steamed Rice $58.95 4 Persons Bean Curd Soup 1/2 Crispy Chicken Shrimp Cake with Chinese Broccoli Sweet and Sour Pork Seafood with Bean Curd in Hot Pot Salt and Pepper Squid Fried Sea Bass Fish Steamed Rice $63.95 6 Persons Fish maw seafood soup 2 Baked Lobsters with Ginger Seafood with Eggplant in Hot Pot Stuffed Bean Curd with Shrimp Seafood with Chinese broccoli Fried Sea Bass Fish House Fried Rice Special Fried Noodles $125.95 10 Persons FREE DELIVERY 514-733-6029 514-733-1067 Minimum order of $10 Delivery hours: 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. For party menu, call Kenny 12 The North American Filipino Star August 2006 The North American Filipino Star Photo Gallery Ah, what cool masks! The children show off their colorful masks during the children’s festival on August 19, 2006 at Park Maisonneuve. Laging Handa Scouts participated in the Children’s Festival by assisting in the demonstration of Philippine handicrafts sponsored by the Philippine Folk Art Society of Quebec at Park Maisonneuve, Aug. 19, 2006. The parade of colors during the FAMAS “Pista sa Nayon,” at Mackenzie King Park, July 22, 2006, with Mayor Michael Applebaum and the Executive Board“ Borough Mayor Michael Applebaum visited the tent of the Laging Handa Scouts group during the Pista sa Nayon, July 22, 2006 in spite of the rain. www.filipinostar.org Mercan 13 The North American Filipino Star August 2006 M E R C A N C A P I T A L L T WeDoffer.our Your application for a visa is successful when you deal with Mercan Capital May pag-asa kayong ma-aprobahan ang inyong aplikasyon kung kayo ay magkukonsulta muna sa isa sa aming mahusay at eksperiensadongtagapayo. Mercan Capital Ltd. founded in 1989, one of the most important organizations ofimmigration professionals whose expertise and high success rates are well-known. We offer our expertise in the following areas: • Skilled Workers • Business Immigrant • Family Reunification • Work Permit •Student’s Visas • Live-in Caregiver . Mercan Capital Ltd helps you obtain your visa, and if unsuccessful, your money will be refunded. Mercan Capital Ltd. keeps itself informed about immigration rules which are constantly changing.The information you receive is relevant and up-to-date. Mr. Jerry Morgan, President and Member of the Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants Ms. V. Marcas, lawyer, Member of the Quebec and Canadian Bar, assists our clients with the legal technicalities of their applications. A mosaic sculpture which can be seen at the public square of the Old Port of Montreal symbolizing religious freedoms recognized by the Canadian Constitution. The Parliament building where the Quebec Government holds its meeting of the National Assembly composed of 123 MNAs who are elected every 5 years. We accept credit cards Mercan Capital Ltd. offers you all services and informs you of the programs that will facilitate your immigration to Quebec and Canada New rulechange opens the door to Filipinoswith relatives in Canada under theSkilled WorkersProgram Part time sales agents welcome www.mercan.com Jerry Morgan - CSIC No. 041555 Canadian laws are complex. Call us to make an appointment for a FREE CONSULTATION. E-mail: info@mercan,com 514-282-9214 Mag-ahente para sa dagdag na kita. Fax: 514-282-1084 MERCAN CAPITAL LTD., Founded in 1989 Mercan Capital Ltd.., 390 Notre Dame West, Suite 410,Montreal (Quebec)H2W 1T9 14 TOURISM Erupting volcano a tourist stop LEGASPI, Philippines – Ominous posters around this city show the nearby Mayon volcano, erupting forcefully, shooting fiery sparks into the sky with blood-red lava dripping from its mouth. But the words on the poster are cheerful rather than frightening: “Visit Legaspi: Mayon Eruption 2006.” The posters are part of an impromptu campaign to find some benefit from a looming disaster that has already forced the evacuation of nearly 40,000 people from their homes on the rumbling volcano’s slopes into overcrowded evacuation centers. While initial estimates of tourist revenues are not available, officials say the volcano, which began oozing lava on July 15 and is on high alert for a full eruption, has helped bring in more local and foreign tourists to this city of about 400,000 people on the povertystricken Bicol peninsula. The posters are the brainchild of Legaspi City councilor Cerilo Chan who realized over a week ago that the tourism potential of the volcanic eruption was not being fully exploited. He printed up the posters and had them placed in different parts of the city and also personally stuck copies at airports, hotels and at the tourism districts in Manila where potential visitors might see them. “I just noticed many foreigners were arriving,” but that there were not enough people attending to them, he said. Since then, Chan has been getting many inquiries. He has been successful in attracting some 120 employees of the central bank to vacation here in late July where they personally got to see Mayon put on a fireworks show at night – from a safe distance. The 8,070-foot (2,460-meter) high volcano has long been a tourist attraction, thanks to its near-perfect The North American Filipino Star cone, its symmetrical slopes and its history of being the most active volcano in the country. But it has been overshadowed by other tourist attractions in recent years such as diving with whale sharks in the nearby coastal town of Donsol. Many of the tourists who pass through Legaspi City just use it as a jumping off point to some place else but the eruption of the volcano has revived interest in Mayon. From Page 10 August 2006 CULINARY FESTIVAL culinary events is to be able to bring to the local/provincial cities what the professionals and amateur from the foodservice industry, missed out from the culinary activities happening in the metropolis. Also, they hope to be able to gather some of the best food, drinks, gadgets and equipment and other suppliers from the industry and bring their products and be able to demonstrate the latest technology in the field of food and drinks preparation. "Filipinos basically love to eat. Our passion for trying local cuisine never dies. That’s why this is one of the more successful events that we have," Teresa said. Stram also hope to provide workshops/trainings and seminars as well as product and cooking demonstration that will be beneficial to the whole foodservice industry by bringing together a pool of experts who shall conduct very timely topics. The culinary event is specially made for small to medium scale restaurants. "We made sure that the participants would only pay very minimal registration fees." "For now, our target is only 60 participants. That’s a manageable group. But there is a clamor to increase it to 100. But I think we won’t be able to manage that big a group." The event will have two parts: the workshops/trainings and the forum/competition. Among the speakers will be Ms. Helene Pontejos, Culinary Directress of San Miguel Culinary Center, "Global Food Trends"; Adolf Aran, Marketing Manager, San Miguel Corp., "Biyahe na! Marketing Pa!"; Chef Gene Gonzalez who will do a demo on "Asian Cuisine with Regional Flavors"; and, Hans Schallenberg, Director of International School for Culinary Arts and Hotel Management (ISCAHM), who will talk on "Food Handling and Sanitation Practices? And "Food and Beverage Management and Cost Control". Another objective is to organize friendly culinary competitions that will challenge the practitioners as well as the students by competing based on mechanics and criteria of international standards and prepare these talents for bigger challenges here and abroad. The competition will be open to local participants. "So that they will have a feel of what is happening on Chefs on Parade and other competitions. So that later on, when they’re ready, they can compete na rin." Series of Events Way back in 1995, when the golf industry was still flourishing, Stram had events focused on golf developers and While government volcanologists warn enthusiasts. "When the Asian crisis hit people not to enter a six to eight the country in 1997, we didn’t find the kilometer (four to five-mile) danger purpose on doing it because most of zone around the crater, the city of Support our advertisers. Legaspi, located some 15 kilometers Read the Filipino Star regularly. (about 8 miles) away, is well out of danger. a www.filipinostar.org the developers stopped constructing," Wilfrido said. "So what I did, I started doing culinary events for San Miguel Corp. I was responsible for opening Monterey meat shops in the provinces. They contracted our company to do it for them," Teresa quipped. "Due to my constant dealings with chefs and food handlers, I fell in love in that field. Especially when I saw them prepare food or even style the food they serve, it was really something that comes from with in. Not anybody can do that unless you that passion for cooking." The first culinary event that they did was at the SM Megatrade hall. "I want to do something bigger. But we (Stram) are not the only events organizer in Manila focusing on culinary events. It is so saturated already." "Sabi ko, why are we concentrating here in Manila when the need is actually out there in the provinces. How else can we be able to get bulk of the tourists that we wish to visit the sites when not much is happening there? Yet, when we market the Phil., we always say go to Boracay, to Palawan, to other provinces." That prompted the couple to hold various culinary festivals geared at training local food handlers on safety and exposing them to the international standards. "They need to have proper trainings from food handling to preparation to presentation." "Paano natin dadalhin ang mga turista kung ang dudumi ng pagkain? Better train this people first than do this massive campaign," Wilfrido said. Stram held the first Culinary Event in Davao 3 years ago. "We’ve been to Davao several times before and we love the place. The variety of produce available there plus the fresh seafood prompted us to stage the first culinary event there." In August, they will be staging the 4th culinary Festival in Davao. There are also plans to do a culinary festival for central Luzon particularly in the Batangas-Tagaytay area. "The idea is for our local food handlers to serve food that are safe and meets international standards. So that when the tourists come, they are assured of the quality of food that they will eat." a Learn French the fast and easy way! Enroll now at Gilmore College Call 514-485-7861 Since 1989 15 The North American Filipino Star August 2006 Gilmore College, in collaboration with the World Academy of Letters, presents a workshop based on an innovative method of developing better writers: “Writers helping Writers” Every person who has the ability to read has the ability to write. Being able to write and express your own ideas help you achieve your goals in all types of situations - professional and personal. This hands-on workshop is designed to be: The word is mightier • Interactive than the sword. • multi-cultural Dr. Jose P. Rizal • process-oriented A follow-up to this workshop • practical will bea public speaking course and the organization • Inspirational of the first “Writers Circle” in • an eye-opener Montreal. • creative • productive Isaac T. Goodine BsC., B. Ed., C.Eng. International Speaker, Author of “Leaders Leading Leaders” Resource person, Transparency International, Human Resource Development Consultant, Former School Principal and Director of Colleges, Member of International Associations Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Call 514-485-7861 for the Summer B.A., Eng. Lit., M.A. in Ed. Studies, Dip.Ed., TESL Cert. and Fall schedules.This workshop is Founder & Director=General held over a weekend starting on Friday evening at 6 to 10 Gilmore College p.m., then on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Lunch Publisher & Editor, The North American Filipino Star, Group break is at 12 to 1 p.m. RESERVE YOUR SEAT NOW! Commissioner, Scouts Canada, Tuition fee: $495 (tax deductible) including taxes & materials Quebec Council An attractive certificate and tax receipt shall be given to each participant. Hours: Mon.-Tues. Wed. Thursday -Friday Saturday 8 AM-5 PM 8 AM-9 PM 8 AM-5 PM Closed on Sundays. We’re wishing you a nice summer vacation. Picnic ham (with bone) Beef Blade steak Pork loin Approximately 15 lbs 1.99lb 2.99lb Half or Whole pork Cut & Wrapped Approximately 200 lbs Boneless leg of ham 1.89lb 3.79lb Pork Spare Ribs 1 litre of fresh blood with purchase 1/2 pork Front quarter of beef 19 1.lb Home smoked meat 2.29lb 8.29lb 99 Buffet - 8 choices - $6. + Starts on Friday - 5:00 to 9:00 P.M. Saturday & Sunday - 11:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M. Crispy pata available starting Friday and the weekend Special Rate for Private arties (max. 60 persons) Business Hours: Mon. & Tues. - 2 p.m. - 9 p.m. Wed. to Fri. - 12 - 9 p.m Sat. & Sun. - 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. 5839 Decarie Boulevard (near Bourret) Montreal, Quebec 4.79lb 10 lbs & over 2.99lb 2.99lb Pearl of Manila was featured in the Montreal Gazette by Sarah Musgrave in her column “Casual Restos” and in a restaurant guide “Cheap Thrills” sold at bookstores. Regular smoked bacon Beef short ribs Fresh Belly with skin taxes 1.39lb 4.69lb St.Chrysostome St. Remi St. Edouard Napierville Fresh pork blood Fresh bacon Fresh liver Pork skin Available Tel.: 344-3670 www.filipinostar.org Sherrington Barrington 203 Havelock 202 219 Hemmingford Jackson Road Canada 219 Parc Safari Lacolle Sortie Exit No.6 Class Covey Hill Road Boucherie Viau Inc. Malone Moders U. S. A. Champlain 83 Covey Hill, Hemmingford QC J0L 1H0 Tel.: (450) 247-2130 or (450) 247-3561 15 16 The North American Filipino Star Sarah Turns 18 Without Fanfare Heart Pays Price of Stardom Heart Evangelista is paying the price of stardom. She confesses that she’s been through a series of crises in the past few months which has deeply hurt her. A lot has been written about her – that she’s an ungrateful daughter who chose her boyfriend over her parents, that she had an abortion, and lately, that she caused the feud between her boyfriend Jericho Rosales and John Estrada, who, some quarters intimate, had a “past” with her. “It was really very hard,” she says. “All things seemed blown out of proportion and all these things are coming at the same time, parang I felt it’s the end of the world. Parang before we could really fix things; marami nang nasabi.” She clarifies that she had her parents’ permission when she decided to move to her own condo unit although she admitted there have been rough times in the family. “My mom and I just had a talk the other day and we’re fixing things. Other than that, we’re still a family and I know everything will be OK soon.” She denies that she and John never had a romantic relationship and “will never have one because he’s married.” Heart says it has been a very difficult yet instructive six months for her. But she emerged stronger and is determined to move on with her life. Her immediate goals are to stay in love with Jericho, master her craft and be a role model to her fans. She disclosed that a soap opera with Jericho is in the works. She wears on her left ring finger a heart-shaped diamond ring which Jericho gave her in their first year anniversary on June 10. Pop princess Sarah Geronimo turned 18 last July 25, but the usual trimmings of a coming-out bash for debutantes -- huge birthday cake, beautiful gown, the traditional cotilion, 18 candles and 18 roses – were nowhere in sight. “Ang gusto ko lang mag outing with my family, pero lagi namang umuulan ngayon, so kamikami na lang sa bahay, mas masaya ako ng ganito," she said during the launch of her international album entitled Becoming, which also served as a birthday party for her. "Marami naman akong birthday parties eh, kagaya nito, tapos sa ASAP pa. Tama na po yon. Ayaw ko talaga ng grand debut, kami ng mga kapatid ko, ayaw namin, never kaming na-curious sa debut. Mapapagod lang ako sa pagga-gown,” she said. Her mother’s birthday gift to her is a Yorkshire terrier worth more than P30,000. Her birthday wish: "Sana maging successful lalo ang career ko. At sana maging international star din ako." Sarah is set to fly to Japan, Indonesia and Malaysia, where her album Becoming will also be released. Sarah will have another concert tour in the US in August. Sarah remains down-to-earth, unassuming and humble despite her phenomenal success as a recording and TV/movie star. a God is Testing Me – Nora Nora Aunor’s drug counseling program, originally set for one year, has been extended by six months and will last up to October 2007. It was extended by six months in exchange for La Aunor’s request to allow her to perform outside Los Angeles. www.filipinostar.org August 2006 She has been meeting with a drug counselor six times a week as part of a plea bargain that her lawyers had sought in connection with the LA airport incident two years ago where La Aunor was allegedly caught carrying an illegal substance. "’Yung mga lawyers ko, pinasok ako sa program, okay?,” she clarified. “I want to make it clear that no, there’s no sentence. They just entered me into the program for meetings and counseling, good for one year. After one year, parang walang nangyari." Nora is appearing in a number of concerts in the US from August to October. Nora says that every concert she does in the US, she never fails to include at least one Gospel song such as Raise Me Up. Her advice, "Huwag kalilimutan ang nasa Itaas. Don’t forget God." a Claudine is longer bossy no Claudine Barretto is slowly adjusting to her new real-life role as wife to Raymart Santiago. "I’m happy," she says. "Raymart is independent and doesn’t like me packing things for him. I run the household, take care of the househelp’s salaries, the pest control schedule, the weekly menu, the budget." In addition, she has learned to temper her personality. "I’m no longer too bossy. My pastor (Robert Hurry) in the Victory Christian Fellowship told me I was a control freak. I’ve changed," Claudine confesses. According to her, motherhood will have to wait until next year. “I realized that even if I only have one child (two-year-old adopted child Sabina), my hands are already full. I want Sabina to be ready for a sibling first." Claudine admits she misses elder sister Gretchen, with whom she not spoken for more than two years now. “Yes, yes, I miss her. I don’t look for her … because I see her on TV and she looks happy naman. But you know, when people mention her name, it makes me stop and think: Ay, nakakamiss.” She says she has gotten over the family feud “a long time ago.” Asked when the Barretto sisters will patch things up, she replied, “Maybe … it’s not yet time. It’s difficult to talk about my sister; something totally different might reach her. It’s better for her to hear it straight from me. That’s why I don’t talk about it.” a 17 The North American Filipino Star August 2006 Angelica's Pose 'Too Provocative' Pampered Housewives It's a casting coup, no doubt. We are referring to the Mother Lily Monteverde’s feat of casting four of showbiz’s most sophisticated and attractive (and sexiest) actresses in one movie. Gretchen Barretto, Dawn Zulueta, Ruffa Gutierrez and Pops Fernandez are starring in the local movie version of America’s TV hit Desperate Housewives. To be sure, the four are neither desperate nor ordinary housewives. Gretchen’s live-in partner is Tonyboy Cojuangco, CEO of ABC 5 TV network and former chair of PLDT. Dawn’s husband, businessman Anton Lagdameo, is a scion of a wealthy family from Davao. Ruffa is married to Turkish millionaire Yilmaz Bektas. Pops, who is separated from singer Martin Nievera, has built a personal fortune from a highly successful singing career. The film project was nearly torpedoed by a rift (or misunderstanding) between Gretchen and Dawn. Gretchen was first reported to have said she would not do the project if Dawn was in the cast. Insiders say the movie was conceived with Gretchen, and that’s why she has the right to dictate who she wants to work with. According to reports, Gretchen had carried a longstanding grudge against Dawn allegedly because during social gatherings in the past, the latter would reportedly snub Gretchen because the family of Tonyboy, who is a cousin of Anton, did like Gretchen. But things have been patched up after Dawn apologized to Gretchen for the perceived slight in the past. a MORTGAGE LOAN Guaranteed approval Call 514-244-8717 Now it can be told. The planned huge billboard of the recently launched Philippine edition of the men’s magazine Maxim featuring cover girl Angelica Panganiban had been trashed. To drum up interest for the Maxim Philippines’ maiden issue, its publisher, ABS-CBN Publishing, Inc., wanted to put up a huge Angelica billboard near Rockwell in Makati City. But Adboard, the advertising industry’s regulatory body, disapproved the billboard because it was “too bold.” The Adboard said Angelica’s “boobs are too big; her looks are too provocative." To accommodate Adboard’s objection, ABS-CBN digitally reduced the size of Angelica’s boobs but Adboard deemed them still "too provocative." According to Rafael A.S.G. "Apa" Ongpin, assistant general manager of ABS-CBN Publishing Inc., Maxim editors had already shrunk Angelica’s 34B boobs. Apa says they "were actually much bigger, they looked so incredible, hindi kapanipaniwala, so we decided to reduce them a bit." a New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island 6-Day Tour Starts from $338 (hotel & luxury bus with tour guide) M e r c e d e s Te x t i l e s L i m i t e d Mercedes Textiles Limited is a manufacturer of Fire Hose for the Municipal, Industrial, Forestry and snow making markets. As a result of increased business and the need for long-term growth, we are currently seeking full time workers for the following positions and starting rates. Student or general worker: starting at $9.50 Folder (days and PM): $9.55 Loom operator: (nights) $11.20 Mechanic, loom (night) $12.32 All candidates should be team players, hard working, loyal and honest, have a minimum of level 5 schooling and be able to speak either French or English well. All on the job training will be provided. The above rates represent 80% of the top rate of the category. $0.35/ hour premium for the PM shift and $0.75/hour premium for night shift. Serious candidates only apply to 5838 Cypihot, Ville St-Laurent, H5S 1Y5 (off highway 40 and Henri Bourassa) Day 1 - Montreal - Fredericton (overnight stay at Holiday Inn, Fredericton) Day 2 - Fredericton - St. John - Moncton (overnight stay at Coastal Inn in Sackville) Day 3 - Moncton - Halifax (Overnight stay in Wyndham Hotel, Halifax) Day 4 - Halifax - Prince Edward Island ( overnight stay at Howard Johnson Hotel on PEI or equivalent). Day 5 - P.E.I - Campbellton (overnight stay at Atlantic Host in Bathurst) Day 6 - Campbellton - Montreal (back to Montreal around 8:30 P.M.) Details of itinerary available upon confirmation of reservation with payment. Departure:Every Saturday Call 514-485-7861 for reservations and information. Tour organized by Concord Tours in cooperation with Gilmore College www.filipinostar.org 18 The North American Filipino Star GMAs super regions concept continues to draw positive reactions August 7 2006 The super-regions blueprint enunciated by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in her Sixth State of the Nation Address (SONA) continues to draw positive reactions both in the local and international financial community. In his weekly newspaper column, "The View From The Palace" coming out Monday (Aug. 7), Press Secretary and Presidential Spokesperson Ignacio R. Bunye said the President’s massive investment program is designed to sustain economic growth, spread progress to all areas of the country through the MegaRegion economic development strategy, and propel the Philippines to the First World status. Under the super-regions concept, which forms part of the Medium-Term Public Investment Program (MTPIP), the country’s 16 regions have been grouped into four mega-regions, plus another region that cuts across the four mega-regions, to create an enlarged economic landscape based on the natural competitive advantage of these areas. These are the North Luzon MegaRegion, the Metro Luzon Urban Beltway, the Central Philippines Mega-Region, the Mindanao MegaRegion and the cyber corridor that serves as the cyber link between these four regions. Bunye said that the super-regions development strategy, which is also a part of the government’s second phase of economic reforms, has been getting favorable reviews by the business community because it makes the country a more appealing choice for foreign investment. He added that under this investment program, government focus centers on "investing in better infrastructure and services to create jobs and improve living standards." "Our infrastructure investment program is designed to lower the costs of doing business and boost productivity, making the Philippines a more appealing choice for the foreign investment we need in order to generate jobs and drive economic growth," Bunye said. He pointed out that contrary to claims by the President’s critics, the government has the funding needed to complete this ambitious task. "There are, indeed, available funds to finance the ambitious Medium Term Public Investment Program," Bunye said. "This investment program will be funded by government revenues generated by tax reforms, as well as partnerships and other support from the private sector and our bilateral and multilateral partners," he added. During the 15th Cabinet and National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board Meeting in Malacañang last Tuesday, Budget Secretary Rolando Andaya said funding for the P372-billion MTPIP would be sourced from the national government (P186.27 billion or 50 percent of the total funding requirement), the private sector (P68.4 billion or 18.39 percent), government-owned and controlled corporations (P116 billion or 31.18 percent), and the local government units (P1.33 billion or 0.36 percent). Bunye said the funds for the MTPIP would not have been available if not for the tax reforms which were introduced by the President to boost revenue collections. "For the first time in a generation, our budget is under control, we are lowering our deficit and raising unprecedented amounts of revenue, thanks to the tax reforms which were introduced by the President and which are now in place," he said. Among these tax measures are the Reformed Value Added Tax Law (R-VAT) which increased the VAT rate from 10 percent to 12 percent and the Lateral Attrition Law which compels government revenue agencies (Bureau of Customs and Internal Revenue) to strictly meet revenue collection targets within their agencies. a PSE suspends Baguio Gold August 18 2006 The Philippine Stock Exchange yesterday suspended the trading of holding company Baguio Gold Corp. following a disclosure Thursday that its board of directors approved the acquisition of 81.57 percent of unlisted flag carrier Philippine Airlines Inc. Baguio Gold and PAL are both controlled by beer and tobacco tycoon Lucio Tan. In a notice to brokers, the PSE said it had asked the company to submit additional information on the acquisition to adequately inform the investing public. “The trading of the corporation’s shares shall be suspended today pending the submission of necessary clarification requested by the exchange,” the PSE said. Baguio Gold disclosed the other day that it was acquiring shares of the flag carrier held by Pol Holdings Inc., Cube Factor Holdings Inc., Ascot Holdings Inc., Sierra Holdings and Equities Inc., Network Holdings and Equities Inc. and Maxell Holdings Corp. These companies collectively Peso hits a record 51.09 to $1 August 18 2006 The peso hit P51.09 to the US dollar Thursday, the highest recorded since April. The peso opened stronger at 51.11 than the previous day’s P51.25 close. It averaged at P51.17 and closed at P51.13 with volume worth $590.85 million. Marcelo Ayes, Equitable PCI Bank markets strategy head, said stronger peso was attributed to the weakness of the dollar across all major Asian currencies and this is the test of the P51-figure. However, he said it would be “nice to have a healthy correction from here.” Most Asian currencies have rallied against the greenback after weak US data have shown economic slowdown, which strengthened forecasts that the US Federal Reserve would not raise interest rates by September or the rest of the year. The latest data showed that US wholesale prices were slow in July as the prices of goods emerging from US factories, farms and refineries edged up in July by the smallest amount for five months.According to the US Labor Department, producer price index rose slightly by 0.1 percent last month on higher energy costs which threaten to boost inflation even as economic growth slows. a www.filipinostar.org August 2006 own 81.57 percent of PAL. “The foregoing companies are single-asset companies, their assets consisting solely of shareholdings in Philippine Airlines Inc.,” Baguio Gold said in the disclosure. Baguio Gold said it planned to acquire the liabilities of those firms pending to the results of an ongoing audit. Stock market analysts said the corporate move was preparatory to a possible backdoor listing of the airline. In preparation for the acquisition, the board earlier approved a resolution increasing the company’s authorized capital stock to P20 billion from P400 million and voided an earlier resolution raising its authorized capital stock to P5 billion. Baguio Gold will present the proposed increase in capital stock during the company’s annual stockholders’ meeting on Sept. 19 for shareholders’ approval. PAL president Jaime Bautista earlier said the airline was seriously considering the possibility of offering its shares to the public through an initial public offering by 2008. a The North American Filipino Star August 2006 GMA touts deregulation for lower power costs Clothes, entertainment cheapest in Manila August 4 2006 August 16 2006 President Gloria Arroyo said electricity users in the Philippines will enjoy lower power costs starting this month due to the deregulation of the energy sector. Power consumers in Manila and surrounding provinces who use up at least 200 kilowatt-hours in a month will have their electricity bill slashed by 52 centavos (about a dollar) per kilowatt-hour starting this month, Arroyo told a news conference. Other areas will have lower reductions in their power rates, officials said. Arroyo said this was due to free market competition in the downstream electricity sector, begun in June when the Philippines launched its wholesale electricity spot market (WESM). "This is a system that allows electric companies to buy power at the lowest price from a choice of power plants. I am glad that to hear from the WESM that electricity charges will be reduced for the billing month of August," Arroyo said. "This is the result of free competition in the sale of electricity from the power generators. This is very good news for consumers, businesses, and even workers," she added. Foreign investors had complained that the Philippines had one of Asia's highest electricity costs. Manila is one of the four cities in the world that is ideal for a short story in terms of prices but where wages are very low, according to a study, “Prices and Earnings,” which catalogs purchasing power around the globe. The survey, conducted by UBS Wealth Management Research covered 71 cities and ran from February to April. UBS is one of the world’s leading financial companies and has offices in 50 countries. The survey, which is issued every three years, presents an overview of the prices of goods and services, wages, wage deductions and working hours and purchasing power in 71 cities on all continents. The survey put together a basket of 10 goods and services, including an overnight stay for two in a firstclass hotel, two dinners with a bottle of red wine, one taxi ride, 100 km in a rental car, two outings to the theater by public transport and other small expenditures such as a paperback novel or a phone. The package costs $350 in Nairobi, $260 in Kuala Lumpur, $350 in Buenos Aires and $330 in Manila. The package is most expensive in London at $1,180. Clothes are also the least expensive in Manila. A complete set of men’s clothes of medium quality is eight times more expensive in Tokyo ($1,320) than it is in Manila ($170). But wages in Manila are quite low. The city is second to the last in the survey. Manila residents also work longer (50 days more) than a Handsome professional, seeks Asian ladies, 25-45 years of age.I am a non-smoker, looking for the same.Friendship first; and if compatible, serious relationship.Please call Sean at (514) 804-8800 people in Paris, where a working year is just 1,480 hours. People work longest in Asian cities with a mean annual working time of 2,088 hours. Historical shows that Europeans have reduced their working hours in the last 30 years in favor of more leisure time while Americans and Asians have a higher regard for earned income. In terms of domestic purchasing power, a person in Metro Manila needs to work 81 minutes in order to buy a Big Mac while only 12 minutes are needed by a worker in Chicago. Oslo, London, Copenhagen, Zurich and Tokyo are the world’s most expensive cities. Life is particularly expensive if the cost of housing is included. a 15 companies to teach Internet to hearing-impaired kids August 14 2006 Fifteen of Cebu's top companies are pooling their resources to teach Internet to hearing-impaired students and help them compete in the information-driven global economy. Karl Hudson, Ayala Business Club (ABC) president, said these students could become successful in the workplace if given the right working tools. The group, through the Gearingup Internet Literacy and Access for Students (GILAS) program, equipped 62 first year high school students for the Hearing Impaired with full access to the Internet. 19 GILAS, an initiative of a consortium of topnotch corporations in the country, identified basic access to information technology (IT) such as the Internet, especially in public secondary schools, as the key to economic growth. Hudson added that skills in IT are today's tools in ensuring quality workforce in the country. "It is the future and we need to prepare our young students early on for them to be successful and contribute to the growth of the economy," he said. Big companies have earlier attributed the growing unemployment rate in the country to the deteriorating educational system in our schools. They noted that a huge number of the country's graduates could hardly meet basic skills required by companies, majority of which belong to IT-driven industries. ABC has a commitment to support three program advocacies, namely GILAS, Children's Hour and Habitat for Humanity, in a bid to strengthen its practice of corporate social responsibility. The ABC group donated 10 new personal computers, free one-year subscription of Internet connection, training for teachers and an Internet literacy program for students. Hudson also assured they would continue supporting the students through "mentoring schemes" from the club's member companies. a 20 The North American Filipino Star Child Health Advocate ‘Doing Her Part’ to Help Stem Problem Looking of an HD Camera? We all know HD is the future of video production, but the cost of joining the HD club of videographers could be staggering. High-definition production is spreading. From football games and local parade coverage to network miniseries and feature films, this format is changing the way our industry approaches production. Whether you're looking to take your wedding business to a new level of quality, craving with corporate clients, hoping to produce your own indie film, or just wanting to have the latest electronic gadget, familiarity with the HD format is a must. If you feel you need to get an HD camera to show it off to your neighbors or business competitors, here are some HD cameras available on the market which is not too pricey but produce an HD quality pictures.. JVC, Sony, and Canon all produce HDV cameras of various stripes and abilities. The JVC HD100U ($7,995 list) shoots 720p, has a true 24p frame rate, provides a professional-looking form factor, and sports the ability to change out lenses. Sony's two popular HDV cameras are the HDR-FX1 ($3,995) and the HVRZ1U ($5,995). Both of them shoot 1080i only and provide pseudo-24p. The XL H1 ($10,999) is Canon's addition to the HDV roundup. It provides HD-SDI output and gives you the option of interchangeable lenses. Like Sony, it shoots 1080i without true 24p capabilities All of these cameras are 3CCD models (the baseline for professional camcorders), and all sport professional-level XLR audio inputs, with the exception of the Sony HDR-FX1. Sony also has single-chip HDV cameras; the consumer HC1, which is a miniature version of the FX1; and the A1U, a junior version of the Z1U. At the other end the Panasonic spectrum is the new AG-HVX200 ($8,995 without storage cards). This widely hyped camera does away with tape-based HD 4715 Van Horne (near Plamondon Metro) Tel.: 514-344-9999 recording and instead records HD to either the solid-state memory P2 cards or to an attached hard drive. It has the ability to shoot all above-mentioned HD resolutions plus DVCPRO 50 and DV25. It records DV25 to tape, but DVCPRO 50 is captured on the P2 cards or the optional attached hard drive. The maximum size of currently available P2 cards is 8GB at a cost of $1,900 these will hold about eight minutes of 1080p DVCPRO HD. Another one of Panasonic's popular HD units is the $80,000 Varicam, which shoots at 720p. A distinctive feature of the Varicam is its ability to shoot at variable frame rates, These different frame rates allow you to achieve a look similar to that of film camera. The HVX200 offers similar Varicam abilities in a less expensive camera with smaller chips and cheaper glass. Sony groups their HDCAM cameras under the CineAlta name. They cover a wide range of prices and features, ranging from two recently released XDCAM HD models, F330 ($25,800) and F350 ($35,800), to the widely used F950. The XDCAM HD cameras record directly onto Sony's Professional Disc media, which is physically similar to, but not compatible with, consumer Blu-ray discs. These cameras can record various quality levels of 1080i and 1080p, plus regular SD DVCAM. Unlike other Sony HD cameras, The XDCAM HD supports i.LINK (FireWire) for file access and DV output. Near the high end of Sony HD solutions is found the F900, retailing for approximately $100,000. It captures both 1080p and 1080i at various frame rates, including 25p and 50i. Well there you go. Different cameras comes with different needs. And the cost of buying these toys are similar to buying a house or a condo. Oh by the way, just like houses, these cameras can be rented on a daily or weekly basis. a Al Abdon www.hollywoodjunkies.tv (514) 264-8706 Bubble tea with a variety of flavors Results from a new Harris Interactive® Health-Care Poll released today found that a whopping 74 percent of parents or guardians of a child aged 12 and under consider childhood obesity a “major problem” in the U.S., which is up from 70% in 2005. The poll also shows “a strong majority of adults believe more physical activity is part of the solution’” with 94% indicating “parents should lead by example by being physically active themselves and encouraging their children to be physically active.” Child health advocate Merilee Kern, CEO of HealthyKidsCatalog.com “weighs in” on the poll, noting “There’s little doubt that childhood obesity is fast becoming a nationwide epidemic and, as these poll results reveal, although caregivers are well aware of the problem, far too many don’t have adequate information or resources to help inspire healthy lifestyle habits among children.” Kern continues, “Simply put, its time for America’s youth to make the proper connections between lifestyle and health, and be empowered to make good choices with the litany of kid-friendly solutions available in the marketplace today. Far too many unknown, which I believe is a travesty. August 2006 This conundrum is the sole inspiration for our catalog exclusively offering sound, lifestyle-oriented weight management products for kids are flying under the radar, relatively ‘solutions that foster healthy children’.” “The bottom line is simple,” concluded Kern. “Childhood obesity not only spells danger for the future health of our children, but for our nation at large. As such, it's our collective responsibility – caregivers, journalists, educators, government officials, medical practitioners - to help ensure kids can navigate the omnipresent cultural landmines adversely affecting their health and well-being. It takes a village, indeed.” Please contact me at 858-577-0206 or agoldberg@kerncommunications.com if you would like to discuss this topic with Merilee Kern, or if you would like a free reviewer’s copy of her groundbreaking fictional children’s book, "It's Not Your Fault That You’re Overweight A Story of Enlightenment, Empowerment and Accomplishment for Overweight and Obese Kids,” winner of iParenting Media’s “Excellent Products of 2006” award (please provide shipping address – postal for hard copy, email for soft e-Book version). a In Good Health, Anne Goldberg Children and the Elderly Need Support When the Temperatures Get Dangerously High Washington, DC— Hundreds of people die each year across the country from heat-related causes, but the encouraging news is that heat illness is 100-percent preventable. The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) urges everyone dealing with extreme heat this summer to make a special point of looking out for those most susceptible to heat illness. “We all suffer when it gets brutally hot,” said ACEP President Dr. Frederick Blum, “But children and the elderly especially need to be careful of dehydration and possible heat illness. They also are often less able to help themselves when they begin to show symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Parents or caregivers should make sure children get plenty to drink, and everyone should check in on elderly neighbors and family to make sure they are staying cool and hydrated.” Heat-related illnesses include sunburn, heat cramps, heat rash, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. Of these, the two most serious conditions are heat exhaustion and heatstroke, both of which can be fatal. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, cold or clammy skin, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, and fainting. Untreated heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke suddenly, and cause unconsciousness within minutes and may be signaled by feelings of uneasiness and sickness. “Because heat affects different people in different ways, it is vital to keep a close eye on anyone in hot conditions for any length of time since they may not realize they are in danger, “said Dr. Blum. “If you see someone acting strangely in the heat, offer them help as quickly as you can. We all need to look out for one another when the temperatures get dangerously hot.” If you suspect someone is suffering from heat exhaustion: o Help the person to a cool place. Lay the person down and raise their legs. o Give the person plenty of water to drink, or a sports drink containing electrolytes. o Even if the person recovers quickly, they should see a doctor. Internet Café DR. EMILIA ESPIRITU CHIRURGIEN DENTISTE / DENTAL SURGEON $27. 99 5790 COTE DES NEIGES RD. SUITE A-024 MONTREAL, QUEBEC H3S 1Y9 www.filipinostar.org PHONE: 54-340-8222 (4077) E-Mail: dr_e_pin@yahoo.ca 21 The North American Filipino Star August 2006 My Hero By Kathreen Pascual-Binaday Teachers are an extraordinary breed of people. They can influence a great many number of lives in unexpected ways and pave one's path to greatness or inconsequentiality. In the world of classical music, the student-teacher relationship extends far beyond the confines of the classroom or practice studio. Its intensity can mean the evolution of an individual who can play an instrument to someone who becomes a musician and eventually transforms into an artist. and Beethoven. For over 15 years, Mrs. Brimo was the main piano soloist for the Manila Symphony Orchestra and was featured in their tours to countries such as Germany, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore and many others. Also, she was often invited to play for the Philippine Armed Forces during the war. One performance in particular stands out in Mrs. Brimo's memory when in the middle of her Brahms concerto, power throughout the building went out. Even though chaos ensued, she continued playing until the end of the piece while people around her scrambled to gather candles in the gathered in homage to a lady they call "a major and tireless Pygmalion in the world of Philippine music." Throughout her teaching career, Mrs. Brimo has had more than 102 graduates from UST and St. Paul alone. She used her influence in encouraging change by recognizing outstanding talent and opening doors of opportunity for artists. In 1988, Mrs. Brimo immigrated to Canada and now resides in the suburbs of Montreal. She is a member of the Quebec Music |t Teachers Association and continues to hold regular recitals featuring her students. Over the years, Mrs. Brimo has refused to allow health problems to become deterrent factors in her incessant desire to continue playing the role of grand lady of music. She is an inspiration to the younger generation. Her students from around the globe regularly call, write and visit her; always eager to lend her a hand at home and are thrilled to get a music lesson whenever they can. The common perception of piano teachers is that they are eccentric, godlike beings who are difficult to please; Mrs. Brimo is no exception and in fact has her share of idiosyncrasies. Technical exercises are custom made for each person in order to work on their recognized short-comings. Her students must learn the correct way of bowing and ensure that their hands are positioned properly while not in use during a performance. The outfit one wears to a recital or concert must be acceptable and there is a short preshow ritual to complete before stepping out on stage. These traits endear Mrs. Brimo all the more to her loyal students. There is no secret to what makes Mrs. Brimo a great teacher. She loves Stella Brimo In the Philippines, where the majority of its people are exposed to popular tunes, classical music has had a rich history and continues to play a pivotal role in producing performers worthy of world-wide recognition. In order to evolve in this field, one requires guidance from an individual with unparalleled wisdom and the generosity to share it. Several Philippine-born artists who have become internationally renowned attribute a big part of their success to the tutelage of Mrs. Stella Goldenberg Brimo. Mrs. Brimo was born in the Philippines to parents of European descent. Her family had several business ties in the country and to date, are still enshrined in its history having owned the famous Goldenberg Mansion inside the Malacanang Palace grounds. Her academic schooling was done at Assumption College in Manila but she pursued her musical studies at the age of seven at the University of Santo Tomas. Her parents were very supportive of her musical aspirations. She was stimulated to grow outside of the confines of the classroom and actively immerse herself in actual places where classical music originated. She spent time in Austria to understand the nuances of pieces written by Mozart and did the same when she went to Germany to grasp the complexities of works by Brahms music and thrives in the development of talent that she quickly recognizes. Some of her students hailed from the barrios of provinces where the pleasure of hearing classical music is a rarity enjoyed only by the elite. She has literally plucked talent from all over the Philippines and provided a chosen few with personal scholarships for the sheer joy of watching them grow into outstanding musicians. Mrs. Brimo is like a second mother to many whose lives she has influenced. She takes great pride in every person with whom she taught and delights in knowing of their accomplishments. At the age of 94, she continues to share her talent to students of varying ages who flock to her home for lessons. She can still pick up nuances in the interpretation of music and continues to enthrall those lucky enough to watch her perform. It has been said that classical music was God's way of communicating to people by touching their souls. Clearly, Mrs. Brimo continues to lead a great many of us down the path of enlightenment through music. She is my HERO - the Grand Lady of Music. a There is no greatness where there is no simplicity, goodness and truth. Leo Tolstoy Enterprise Immigration Canada Inc. hopes of lighting their surroundings. For her efforts, she was showered with thunderous applause by the men and women who were there to witness her bravado. Mrs. Brimo taught at educational institutes such as St. Paul's College of Music, St. Joseph's College and also served as President of the Manila Symphony Society. Her most prominent tenure was at the prestigious Conservatory of Music at the University of Santo Tomas ("UST") from 1948 to 1988 where she became the first female Dean of Music from 1972 to 1980. During her administration, the woodwind, brass wind, string, voice and piano departments produced future winners of various competitions that included the National Music Competition for Young Artist (NAMCYA), Manila Symphony Orchestra, Piano Teachers Guild of the Philippines and many others. Her colleagues and students have publicly acknowledged receiving unwavering support from Mrs. Brimo in furthering their careers and give her credit for single-handedly raising the bar for all other classical musicians that followed. Some of her former proteges are now deans, music professors and recording artists themselves. In January 2000, a tribute concert called "Bravo Brimo" was organized at the Cultural Center of the Philippines ("CCP") and featured artists from all over the world that 4661 Van Horne Avenue, Suite 10, Montreal, Quebec H3W 1H9 Tel.: 514-738-8549 • Fax: 514-738-5631 YOUR SOLUTION FOR PERMANENT RESIDENCE Mme M. Gauthier, B.A., MBA, President of the company, is a former representative of the Mihister of Citizenship and Immigration. 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One town in Guimaras was asking for 2.5 million pesos (Dh180,000) in assistance, said Senator Claro Recto, adding that more towns in Guimaras will be asking for financial assistance from the oil company. "Petron's financial records show it can easily accommodate the request of some local government units in Guimaras and Iloilo for financial assistance," said Recto, adding, "Petron Corporation is awash with cash. It can clean up the oil-washed coastline of Guimaras.” "The amount needed for the clean up is just a drop in its barrel of profits," Recto said, adding that Petron, an industry leader, controls 38 per cent of the market. The 2005 net income of Petron surged to 5.765 billion pesos from 3.886 billion pesos the previous year, or an increase of 48 per cent, records showed. If found liable, Petron could be charged in court," said Congressman Leovigildo Banaag, chairman of the Committee on Natural Resources. "We will do everything possible to determine Petron's accountability," Banaag said, adding, "More than criminal liability, Petron has to spend a lot, to allocate millions sufficient enough to clean the oil mess." Members of the probing committees will go to Guimaras to check the extent of damage and ask people what help they require. Virginia Ruivivar, a spokeswoman for Petron, earlier said, "Although the liability falls on our hauler, Petron is taking responsibility for the event." She did not mention any amount. She also said that two British pollution experts from the International Tanker Oil Pollution Federation were sent to Guimaras to assess the situation. "Our oil spill equipment is being readied and we will deploy it once we get a clearer picture of the situation," she added. Right now, about 350,000 litres of bunker oil were estimated to have been initially spilled by tanker Solar 1. It carried 2 million litres of bunker fuel on board when it sank 3,000 feet south of Guimaras. a August 2006 Police in London foil major terrorist plot items through airport security, the company said in a statement. British Airways also advised passengers that no electrical or August 10 2006 battery powered items including Police in London said they have laptops and mobile phones could be thwarted a major terrorist plot to blow allowed in the cabin. a up aircraft in mid-flight. Scotland Yard said that the aim of GMA sets up panel to the plot was to detonate explosive probe political murders devices on board the aircraft in hand August 21 2006 luggage. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on The plot was likely to target flights from Britain to the United States, it Monday set up a commission to investigate a surge in politically said. Police had made a number of motivated murders of leftist activists arrests overnight in London, it added. and journalists. Mrs Macapagal has been Responding to the incident, Britain raised its security threat level criticised for not doing enough to stop the spate of killings, which some to "critical" from "severe." Britain has a five-level rating for believe are a consequence of the security threats, ranging from low to government’s intensified operation against communist insurgents. critical, which is the highest level Amnesty International, the Security at the airports across the country has beefed up. A total of 18 London-based human rights group, people had been arrested so far, last week issued a report criticising the Philippine government over the according to a BBC report. British Airways (BA) on Thursday issue. It counted 51 political advised all passengers that they assassinations so far this year would not be permitted to carry any compared to 66 for the whole of last hand baggage on board any aircraft year. Mrs Macapagal appointed Jose departing from any airport in Britain. Passengers will be allowed to Melo, a former supreme court justice, take only travel documents, to head the special commission which includes representatives from eyeglasses and a handful of other a law enforcement agency, the 6430 Victoria AvenueTel.: 514-733-7816 Prices valid: Aug. 23-Sept. 2, 2006 Black Tie Shrimp 80/100 $3.99 Bananas , 29¢ lb Black Tie Shrimps 600 g $3.99 Lady’s Choice Sandwich spread, 470 mL $4.29 Pineapple slices, chunks Jackfruit Young Green Jackfruit, 560 g 99¢ Oyster Sauce Kum Chun 380 g $1.79 Coconut Milk, 400 mL 99¢ Pancit Canton Lucky Me 2 for $1.00 Golden Mountain seasoning sauce 20 fl. oz $2.69 Kim Oil, 3 L $3.99 Sardines pailin, 155 g 2 for 99¢ Datu Puti Vinegar sukang maasim 1 L$1.29 Diwa Canton, 227g 99¢ Iceberg lettuce 99¢ Rice stick, ERawan, 454 g 99¢ Kangkong $1.79 lb Elephants Bamboo shoots 280 g 99¢ Windsor Salt 99¢ Vermicelli, Long Kou, 500 g 99¢ Dutch Baby Milk 300 mL $1.79 Thin soy sauce 233 fl oz $2.89 www.filipinostar.org Mama Sita’s Barbecue Sauce 1 liter, 83 fl. oz $1.99 Wai Wai noodles, 500 g 79¢ 23 The North American Filipino Star August 2006 department of justice, the Catholic Church and the legal community. The commission will be given “wide power and a sweeping mandate for its members to put murderers behind bars and break this cycle of violence once and for all,” said Mrs Macapagal at a ceremony marking the anniversary of the death of Benigno Aquino Jr, the popular leader whose assassination in 1983 sparked nationwide protests against then strongman Ferdinand Marcos. She said: “Whether you are a journalist or a political activist or the left or the right, it is the obligation of the government and indeed the entire nation to protect the rights and liberties of every citizen.” Some observers doubt the new investigative body will be effective, particularly in bringing to justice any members of security forces who may be involved. The government already has a permanent Commission on Human Rights, which has condemned the killings but has yet to file charges against a single suspect. “It was intended mainly to deflect flak from the international community over the rise in killings,” said Loretta Rosales, a Congress member who sits in a legislative committee on human rights. Left-wing groups said they doubted the independence of the commission, whose members include the chief state prosecutor and the head of the National Bureau of Investigation, saying they work under Mrs Macapagal and would not be likely to pursue leads that could hurt the government. Amnesty warned that the government’s declaration of an “all-out war” against the communist guerrillas will result in more killings. It noted that many of those killed were members of groups that government officials have accused of being front organisations for the underground communist movement. Military officials said some of the deaths of leftist activists were the result of violent conflicts and purges within the communist movement itself. a Filipino Judge Claiming To Have Psychic Powers Sacked Three Filipino babies are born every minute Salvador tops Genova chess, nears GM title August 21 2006 By Roderick T. dela Cruz August 8 2006 A Philippines judge who believes in dwarves and claimed to have psychic powers has lost an appeal to keep his job, court officials said. Judge Florentino Floro, who presided in a suburban Manila court, was sacked on March 31 on "administrative grounds" after he failed a psychiatric test ordered by the Supreme Court. The judge, who started his court sessions with a reading from the Bible's Book of Revelation, lodged an appeal instantly. Floro also was understood to have claimed supernatural abilities, the ability to read the future and held "healing sessions" in his chambers. But the Supreme Court was not convinced of the judge's mental state and rejected his appeal. The final ruling, written on August 11, said "judges are expected to be guided by the rule of law and to resolve cases before them with judicial detachment" to ensure the public maintained its confidence in the judicial process. "The psychological finding of mental unfitness, when taken together with Judge Floro's claimed dalliance with 'dwarves', poses a serious challenge to such required judicial detachment and impartiality," the ruling said. This would "eventually erode the public's acceptance of the judiciary as the rational guardian of the law, if not make it an object of ridicule. "His insistence on the existence of `dwarves', among other beliefs, conflicts with the prevailing expectations concerning judicial behavior and manifests a mental state that should lay to rest any doubts about his valid removal from office for lack of the judicial temperament required of all those in the bench." Judge Floro could not be reached for comment. a Three babies are born in the Philippines every minute, but there are indications population growth is slowing because one in every four births is a first-born, a government agency says. The National Statistics Office says it arrived at the figure based on the 1.669 million live births it recorded in 2003 from the birth certificates at the Local Civil Registry Office. It says the live births in 2003 compares with the 1.667 million recorded in 2002 — or a very slight increase of 0.2 percent. “In 2003 the daily occurrence of births was 4,574 or 190 babies born every hour or three babies per minute,” the agency says. The total fertility rate—the average number of children a woman would have when she reached the age of 50—came in at 2.6, down from about three or four children decades ago. The survey also shows that more male than female babies were born in 2003—or 868,749 males and 800,693 females. The survey also shows that more male than female babies were born in 2003—or 868,749 males and 800,693 females. This means there were 108.5 male babies for every 100 female babies born in 2003. Most of the babies born that year were born in Luzon including 281,063, or 16.8 percent, in Metro Manila. The babies born in Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon represented 14.2 percent of the total, and those born in Central Luzon accounted for 11.7 percent. Despite the slowing fertility rate, the survey indicates that some of the mothers who gave birth in 2003 got sexually active early. Mothers aged 15 to 24 delivered a third, or 595,427, of the total births that year. The average age of the female and male parents of children born in 2003 was consistent with the previous year’s 27.6 and 31.4, respectively. a Former child prodigy Fide Master Roland Salvador nailed his second grandmaster (GM) result by winning the 10th International Chess Tournament Open held at the Hotel Novotel Genova Ovest in Genoa (Genova), Italy, recently. The 24-year-old native of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, scored seven points on 6 wins, 2 draws and 1 loss, the same score posted by countryman International Master Rolly Martinez, who hails from Isabela. Ranked No. 15 in the RP-Fide (world chess federation) rating list with an Elo of 2420, Salvador, a former kiddie standout, obtained an impressive performance rating of 2612 to pass the Fide requirement of seven titled opponents and 2600 performance rating. He also gained 21 Elo points from the 9-round Open A Swiss-system event confined to titled players. Martinez, ranked 22nd in the Philippines (2399), gained 6 points but failed to get a GM result. “Nagpapasalamat po ako sa Diyos dahil nagbunga din yong paghihirap ko rito,” said the former Philippine Navy mainstay in a long distance call to engineer Ric Paragua (GM Mark Paragua’s father) Wednesday night. “I hope matulungan ako ng ating mga kababayan sa pagdarasal para makuha ko na ang huling GM norm.” Salvador got his first GM result when he was still an untitled player in the 26th International Chess Open held in Bratto, Italy, in 2004. In Genova, Salvador also beat top seed GM Alexei Barsov (2546, Uzbekistan), 3rd seed GM Krum Georgiev (2485, Bulgaria), FM Piero Bontempi (2318, Italy), Candidate Master Mauro Berni (2078, Italy) and CM Christiano Novelli (2145, Italy). He drew with 5th seed GM Miraljub Lazic (2477, Serbia and Montenegro) and GM Petar Velikov (2465, Bulgaria). 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