October 2006 - FINAL.qxp
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October 2006 - FINAL.qxp
Step up and join the trade professionals. Become a PREPARE FOR A NEW CAREER! E N R O L L AT GILMORE COLLEGE CITP Register now at Gilmore College. Tel.514-485-7861 Be prepared for the global economy October 2006, Vol. XXIV, No. 10 www.filipinostar.org CALL 514-485-7861 Liberals consult ethnic communities on priority issues HEADLINES QLP Sector conferences with multi-cultural communities ... p. 4 I Debt for nature swaps - Earth Talk Page 11 Laging Handa’s Autumn camping fun in Tagalog Page 23 Contents Global Perspectives . . . . . p. 6 Classified Ads . . . . . . . p. 10 Health & Science Entertainment . . . . . p. 21 . . . . . p. 16-17 Philippine Cuisine . . . . . p. 10 Historically yours . . . . . . p. 9 Community News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 8 READERS POLL What do you think of the Filipino Star’s new look? vote: www.filipinostar.org QLP Conference on Issues of Cultural Communities MORE THAN 600 QLP MEMBERS MEET TO FIND WAYS TO MOVE QUEBEC FORWARD Montreal, October 14, 2006 – In the presence of the leader of the Quebec Liberal Party and Premier of Quebec, Mr. Jean Charest, and the Minister of Immigration and Cultural Communities, Ms. Lise Thériault, more than 600 active members of the Quebec Liberal Party attended a conference focusing on the needs and interests of cultural communities. The conference was entitled « cultural communities in the Quebec of tomorrow – what role will they play and what contribution will they make to our future? » During this event, the participants took part in discussions centering on three main themes: the Quebec of tomorrow, the real and potential contribution of cultural communities to economic development and demographic concerns, and the rights of visible minorities as they related to the ability of such communities to be truly involved in the institutions of our society. « Quebec’s future is dependent on citizens from all walks of life getting involved and playing a part in our development. Today, hundreds of ordinary citizens made themselves available in order to identify priorities and express their ideas. The results of these discussions will determine how the Quebec Premier Jean Charest making his speech which was roundly applauded by all members. He said that there is only choice to make - to make Quebec go forward. Quebec Liberal Party positions itself on issues affecting cultural communities. Together we will face the challenges that await us and continue to develop and strengthen Quebec” the Premier stated. According to Minister Thériault: “By participating in this conference in large numbers, the Quebec Liberal Party’s active members have demonstrated once again the importance that they attach to the aspirations of their fellow citizens from cultural communities. The important discussions that we had today will allow us to pursue our dream of a truly inclusive society” Aside from the Premier and the Minister of Immigration and Cultural Communities, more than a dozen Cabinet ministers and MNAs were also present at the conference. The co-chairs of the conference, Ms. Yasmine Alloul and Mr. Saul Polo, felt that the success of the event demonstrated that the Quebec Liberal Party is sensitive to the needs and interests of Quebecers from cultural communities : « This conference has allowed us, as members of visible cultural communities, to continue to take our rightful See Page 4 Giilmore CDN residents face intercultural commission Mr. Marvin Rotrand, City Councilor of Snowdon district presided over the public meeting with the Intercultural Commission which works to foster tolerance and understanding among the diverse ethnic groups of our Borough. He invited some community organizations to address the Commission and alert them to their plans for the new year. The Commission also acts as a conduit to explain community needs to the various municipal services. The meeting was held at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 18, 2006 at the Intercultural Library on 6767 Cote des Neiges. Other citizens also made presentations and share their observations as well as pose questions See Page 4 Intercultural Commission 2 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 Is Osama dead or alive? Does it really matter? Makati mayor ends sit-in after suspension ruling Editorial BY PHILLIP KNIGHTLEY Special Reporter October 20, 2006 As the war in Iraq goes from bad to worse — it looks as if the moment is rapidly arriving when pressure on the USA and Britain to get out will become irresistible — the one subject President Bush steers resolutely clear of is Osama bin Laden. Recently a single uncorroborated French intelligence report quoting Saudi security sources had had the whole world briefly asking: is Osama bin Laden alive or dead? But surely this is the wrong question. A more illuminating one would be: does it matter? And the short answer is, no. Since Osama bin Laden’s stunningly successful attack on the United States on 9/11 we have mistakenly believed that killing or capturing him was central to the war on terror. This was because an important emotion in the American psyche is revenge (see the plots of most Hollywood westerns) and the US was denied the catharsis that revenge on the 9/11 attackers would have brought, because they were all dead anyway. But their leader and planner was still alive, so President Bush rode out after him. The President’s language was deliberately Hollywood: "We’re coming to get ya", and the reward was for Osama bin Laden "dead or alive". But he was nowhere to be found. The President of Pakistan, General Musharraf, speculated in 2002 that the Al Qaeda chief had probably died of kidney failure because he had taken a kidney dialysis machine with him into the wilds of Afghanistan but there was nowhere that a man on the run could plug it in. Since then long periods of silence — which revive rumours of his death — have been punctuated by the release to Arab TV networks of audio and video tapes on the thoughts of the leader, the most recent being on June 29. But President Bush, from being obsessed with bin Laden, now seldom mentions him because his advisers say it is unwise to draw public attention to the fact that the most powerful military force in the world appears unable to capture an elderly, ailing terrorist who hides in caves. But there could be another reason. The US administration may well have decided that Osama bin Laden no longer matters. The threats October 19, 2006 The mayor of Manila's financial district, a fierce critic of Philippine he made against the United States President Gloria Arroyo, ended a after the attacks on the World Trade defiant sit-in after winning a court ruling Center have turned out to be empty. against his suspension. Homeland Security, admittedly at the sacrifice of civil liberties and the moral high ground, has worked. In the five years since 9/11 not a single life has been lost to terrorism on American soil. Professor John Mueller of the Ohio State University, who believes it is time to look at the threat from terrorism realistically, says that the number of people worldwide who are killed by international terrorists each year is not many more than the number who drown in bathtubs in the United States. Think carefully about that. Yes, Iraq is a dreadful mess and thousands of innocent civilians have died as a result of the American invasion; some sources say as many as half a million. (The war has also produced a terrible toll of journalists with 48 killed since January, the deadliest year since the start of hostilities in 2003.) And it is true that, as Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay speaks briefly American intelligence admits, the war conference, Thursday Sept. 17, 2006 in Makati. there has brought Jihadists from all A jubilant but visibly exhausted over the world, to fight the West. Jejomar Binay emerged from Makati City Hall where he had been holed up for two days to meet his supporters and vowed the "fight will continue" to clear his name. "Will anyone be happy with what I have been through?," Binay said when asked what he felt of the decision by But we should consider that Washington might have planned just this — if the terrorists are fighting in Iraq then they are not trying to attack the American mainland. There is also the likelihood that Osama bin Laden himself has gone as far as he feels he needs to go. His place in the history of Islam is secure and dead or alive he will remain a hero to millions of Muslims throughout the world. What more could he want? He has said he wants Christians out of the Muslim holy lands and a settlement of the PalestineIsrael question. Both are underway and inevitable. Dead or alive? Probably still alive and in a part of Afghanistan the Americans do not know about and are even less likely to be able to reach, resting content with his achievements. the Court of Appeals to issue a 60-day injunction against his suspension. Binay, his deputy and entire council were suspended on Tuesday after the government accused the leading opposition figure of having 500 to the media during an impromptu news non-existent employees on the city payroll. Arroyo's officials, who have criticized the mayor for allowing opposition groups to hold antigovernment rallies in Makati, said they See Makati Mayor page 7 Divisoria cubao Filipino Solidarity Cooperative 4711 Van Horne Avenue, Montreal, QC H3W 18 Tel. 514-733-8915 More choices, competitive prices! • 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. a 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: [email protected] 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 October 2006 Milenyo Typhoon final death toll pegged at 184 October 19, 2006 Government officials on Wednesday asked for international and local assistance in the rehabilitation of areas devastated by typhoon Milenyo and affected over a million persons. In a press briefing, the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) reported that Milenyo left 184 people dead, injured 536 others and 46 persons missing. Sun.Star Network Online coverage on journalist Marlene Esperat's murder case 3 The North American Filipino Star Manila wants 11,000 more troops to defeat rebels The typhoon battered with heavy downpour and strong winds at least seven regions, including Metro Manila. Relief and disaster officials identified the provinces of Sorsogon and Albay as the areas worst hit by Milenyo. NDCC executive officer and concurrent Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) administrator Glenn Rabonza said the typhoon has left at least P6.53 billion in damages to infrastructure and to the agriculture sector. October 20, 2006 President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has ordered the recruitment of an extra 11,000 troops to step up the fight against communist rebels and Islamic militants, the military's chief of staff said on Friday. General Hermogenes Esperon said additional forces were needed to check the expansion of the communist New People's Army (NPA) into urban centres and reduce the fighting capability of the rebels by 50 percent See TYPHOON page 7 within the next three years. The Philippines, a close ally to the United States, now has about 118,000 members of the military but has been hampered in its security operations by underfunding, corruption, low morale and a lack of modern equipment. Since 1969, the Philippines has been battling the Maoist-led NPA, which has about 7,000 fighters and is active in 69 of 79 provinces in a conflict that has killed more than 40,000 people. Peace talks with the NPA, brokered by Norway, stalled in 2004 and both sides appear reluctant to resume negotiations due to the military's offensive in rural areas outside Manila. In June, Arroyo declared "all-out war" against the communist movement after some NPA leaders conspired with rogue troops and some political foes in an alleged plot to oust her in February. Esperon said the offensive against hundreds of Muslim rebels with ties to Jemaah Islamiah (JI), a Southeast Asian group that seeks a pan-Islamic state in the region, would continue until "our high-value targets are finished off". He said three fresh battalions would be sent to the remote southwestern island of Jolo to join about 6,000 troops trying to flush out Abu Sayyaf, the most violent of four See TROOPS page 6 Jan. 15 deadline set for people’s initiative October 20, 2006 The people’s initiative to amend the Constitution must be approved by Jan. 15 if the 2007 elections are to be for an interim parliament, a ranking Palace official said yesterday. “The filing of the certificates of candidacy [for the 2007 elections A downed and bended steel frame made for roadside advertisement crashed an SUV and a bus begins] on Jan. 15, so we must beat plying the EDSA route in Makati after typhoon Melenyo hit Metro Manila with winds up to 140 the deadline and have a plebiscite kms/hour. President Arroyo, who visited the site to oversee its removal, ordered illegally before Jan. 15,” Executive Secretary constructed billboards be removed after several structures of this type were toppled. Facts revealed about over the counter medication: You have a healthy choice! In light of recent violent events, we are all thinking about what is important to us and what our priorities are. As the people and the city heal we wonder about how we can improve on those priorities. If you ask people what their top priority in life is the majority will tell you their health is their top priority and that means that is the area that we should be spending our energy on to cherish and to improve. However it is also known that people that their health for granted and unless we are forced by some unfortunate crisis we really do not do much to improve it. The statistics reveal that 1 out of 3 people die of cancer, 1 out of 3 die of heart attack and the other third die of the treatment for these diseases. Personally, I had the misfortune of losing my mother to cancer and my father to heart attack. If I knew what I know now that these diseases are 100% preventable, things would have been different for my parents. As we get on with our busy lives, our bodies try to tell us when something is not right and the body eventually perceives those messages as pain. That pain can manifest itself in numerous ways, at various levels of intensity such as back pain, insomnia, asthma and fatigue. This is how our bodies communicate with us. Most people think that is bad and they try to take painkillers to ease their pain and solve the problem. Here’s what the latest research on drugs reveals: 1) People who take analgesic drugs frequently are at an increased risk of developing end-stage renal disease 2) Acetaminophen (Tylenol) ingestion accounts for 12% of all patients hospitalised with drug overdoses and accounts for 40% of patients with acute liver failure. The reason the body gives the signal for pain is because something in your current lifestyle is causing stress on your body and your body cannot deal with that stress and your spine moves out of alignment to compensate. This could happen because of sitting for long periods of time, car accidents, sports related injuries, mental stress, worries etc… If the root of the problem / pain is not addressed, the problem grows bigger and worsens and you can progress into later stages of disease such as arthritis. If you’re tired of suffering from anything mentioned in this article, please call us right now. 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. When winter comes, spring is not far behind. www.filipinostar.org Eduardo Ermita said. He said that if the Supreme Court ruled favorably next week on the people’s initiative petition, preparations for a plebiscite would go into full swing. The Supreme Court is expected to rule on a petition from Sigaw ng Bayan and the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines to reverse the See CONSTITUTION page 7 4 The North American Filipino Star place among QLP members and within Quebec society » Since its founding in the 1970s, the Quebec Liberal Party’s Commission on Cultural Communities has played a major role in the task of finding appropriate solutions for the problems involved in fostering Quebec’s development. The Quebec Liberal Party has always given a major place to its standing committees, composed of active party members who have dedicated themselves to moving Quebec forward. During the open question period, many people lined up in front of the microphone to pose questions to the panelists. Zenaida Kharroubi made an attempt to ask the Minister Hon. Lawrence Bergman, Minister of Revenue, poses with Zenaida Kharroubi, and his political assistant, during the QLP’s Sector conferences with cultural communities. October 2006 of Immigration and Cultural Communities, Mme Lise Thériault, if she has been made aware of the problems of live-in caregivers. She replied that there were already some representations made and that she would have one of her assistants, Viviane Moreno, call her to provide more details about the progress being made in this dossier. There are many other interesting and urgent issues raised but as usual, there is no time to have the full answers to the questions except to say that they would be brought up in the deliberations of the party when the time comes for policy deliberations. Salve Desprez, Riza Esmeralda, Zenaida Kharroubi with the Quebec Premier Jean Charest before the conference began. Marvin Rotrand, introducing all the members of the Intercultural Commission which is composed of 10 members, 1 vacancy at present. GILMORE INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE ALUMNI YEARBOOK 2006 Laging Handa Scout Group Commissioner made a preentation on behalf of the group and submitted a budget but pointed out the most immediate need is a venue for Scouts. From Page 1 Intercultural to the Commission. Some of the community organizations that made presentations were: the Montreal Marquis, the Philippine Folk Art Society, Laging Handa Scout Group, Jamaican Association, CDN Residents Association and other groups representing other ethnic communities. It is necessary to register a few minutes before the meeting is called to order. Organizations can make an oral presentation or may table a written brief and take a few moments to explain it. The dialogue with the community will help the Commission establish its priorities and work plan for 2007. Mr. Rotrand said that he is certain the Commission would appreciate hearing of the community plans so that it can assure a successful cooperation between the association and the Borough and its services This is certainly not only the time that the Commission will meet with the community. Other types of cooperation, particularly with regards to the twinning agreement with Manila will also be tackled in the near future. Information is expected to be released from Mr. Rotrand’s office. Name:____________________________________________________ Course: ________________________________________Year_______ Address: _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Telephone:____________________Fax No.: ______________________ E-Mail: ___________________________________________________ Present occupation : _________________________________________ Business or company name: __________________________________ Future plans or goals: ________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Favorite motto or quotations:___________________________________ _________________________________________________________ Please send this form with your ID size photo to: Gilmore International College, 4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse, Montreal H3W 1X3 no later than November 15, 2006. 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 Gilmore Poll In reaching out to the community, Gilmore International College must have an idea on how people perceive the role of the school - how it should develop its priorities and services to the people who enroll in the different programs. Please clip this survey form and send it to the address given on the advertisement beside this. 1. Are you interested in any of the programs being offered now? Yes No 2. If yes, please indicate ________________________________ If no, please explain ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ 2. Do you have a prior knowledge of Gilmore as a Filipino-owned private school? Yes No Education raises the bar but lowers the barriers to a rewarding career. Enroll now at Gilmore College. Call 514-485-7861 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. 3. If yes, please indicate source of information. ________________________________ 4. Do you want to support Gilmore International College in its educational mission? Yes No 5. Please explain either answer in order to guide the College’s administration on the area of improvement needed. ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ ________________________________ 6. When do you plan to enroll in the current programs being offered? Now Winter 2007 Fall 2007 Other date 7. What, in your opinion, should be the most important function that a school should focus on? (Please use additional page if necessary) ______________________ _______________________________ 5 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 to register by appointment Courses • 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 C.I.T.P. - Certified International Trade Professional 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 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. Step up and join the trade professionals Earn your C.I.T.P. title. Office Assistant FORUM FOR INTERNATIONALTRADE TRAINING We offer flexible schedules and budget payment plans. Foreign students are welcome. 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 A private college founded in 1989 (Please feel free to use additional sheets for your replies . Thank you.) GILMORE (INTERNATIONAL) COLLEGE Our courses are recognized by: 4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse (5th Fl.) Montreal, Quebec H3W 1X3 (Snowdon Metro) Tel.: 514-485-7861 Fax: 514-485-3076 E-Mail: [email protected] www.gilmorecollege.com New York / Woodbury 3-Day Tour Depature: December 26, 2006 $158 (QUAD) and UP Please contact: Gilmore College 4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse, Montreal Telephone: 514-485-7861 Concord Tours & Travel 1071 St. Urbain R 06 Tel. 514-876-1680 Associated with Concord Tours & Travel www.filipinostar.org 6 The North American Filipino Star Global Perspectives Isacc T. Goodine “We all know the positive contributions of immigration to our culture, our economy, and our society as a whole. We must integrate immigrants more quickly and more efficiently, yet we still haven’t achieved that goal.”…Isabelle Hudson, President and CEO, Montreal Board of Trade. “Why must we continue to stress the importance of immigration? We, at the Filipino Star, are in complete agreement with Isabelle Hudson who says that the Board of Trade is proud to contribute to this cause through its active participation in Quebec’s Intercultural Week and that she is “convinced that, together, we will succeed not only in accelerating the employment integration of new arrivals but also in ensuring their long-term integration in our society and, in particular, our diversified and thriving job market.” For the past few months I have been referring, in this column, to issues related to immigration and the need to educate Canadians to the opportunities that are open to attract immigrants who will contribute to our mutual well being and help promote a more peaceful world by sharing in prosperity. This can only be achieved when we realize that there can be unity in diversity. Last month’s issue pointed out that the “New Canadian Government” has engaged the Association of Canadian Community Colleges to implement the Canadian Immigration Integration Project that will include field offices in the Philippines, China and India. The Pilot Project is under the auspices of Human Resources and Social Development, Canada, and its purpose is to provide counseling services to facilitate smoother integration of immigrants into Canadian society and the workforce. It is aimed primarily at immigrants who have been selected for employment in Canada because of their job-skills and is part of the overall scheme that accepts that there are significant gaps in the Canadian labour market that can only be filled by skilled workers from abroad. The success of this pilot project will rely heavily on truthful information being shared openly so that the process will be fully transparent. However, much still need to be done to educate and inform Canadians, as well as Immigrants, on how they can work together more effectively to achieve mutual benefits. It is in that regard that we applaud the news that EmploiQuebec is providing financial support for “speedjobbing” sessions with Greater Montreal immigrants and employers. In addition, the Board of Trade is planning a trade fair giving community organizations working with immigrants an opportunity to network, exchange information, and forge ties with members of the business community. As employers become increasingly aware of the importance and necessity of hiring immigrants, so too, will the necessity for inter-cultural and specific on-the-job training be better understood, and then, the cost-effectiveness of investments for this approach to human resource and social development will be realized. In that regard Quebec has shown foresight in announcing a program providing incentives for small and medium-sized businesses to hire immigrants and members of visible minorities. It is with the foregoing in mind that I take this opportunity to congratulate Ms. Zenaida FerryKharroube, on the occasion of celebrating 17 years of successful operation of Gilmore International College, in Montreal. In October 2004, I had the pleasure to present a certificate of appreciation to Ms. Kharroubi in recognition of her extraordinary contributions to community unity and leadership. The citation reads as follows: With the experience of the past 17 years to “As the incumbent Chair of Human Relations, within the World Academy of Letters. I am delighted to present this award to Zenaida Ferry-Kharroubi. Once an immigrant herself, she exemplifies achievement of unity in diversity within international society. As an inspirational teacher, publisher, and community leader, she has guided many young adult immigrants through their transition to Canadian society. I am thrilled that this honorary certificate will be added to a list of honors, giving her the recognition she deserves.” …Isaac Thomas Goodine, Chair of Human Relations, World Academy of Letters build upon, Gilmore International College is well placed to work with the Board of Trade and others to help integrate immigrants into the workforce as well to draw upon Alumni resources that include those who have gone through the trying efforts to adjust to a culture and environment that often seems uncaring and cold. Five years ago the unemployment rate for immigrants who had arrived in the previous five years was 22 percent, compared to 6 percent for people born in Canada and even more troubling is the fact that when those who were established for several years were included with the more recent arrivals, the overall unemployment rate for “immigrants” between the ages of 15 and 64 was at 12 percent. Associated with this situation is a need to redouble efforts to unlock cultural resources that immigrants bring and to use vast talents that now lie dormant or untapped within our diverse society. This situation can and must be improved by finding new ways of doing things together. October 2006 Montrealer receives award as one of the 10 outstanding Flipino-Canadians in Toronto Albert Gutierrez Last September 30, 2006, the Binibining Pilipinas of the World Beauty Pageant held their annual awards night in the International Plaza Hotel in Toronto. One of the ten outstanding Filipino-Canadians awarded is from Montreal, Mr. Alberto Gutierrez, chairman of the Kalinangan Dance Troupe. A native of Taal, Batangas, Philippines, Albert graduated from Lyceum of the Philippines, Manila with a bachelor of science degree in Foreign Service and first worked with FBA Pharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of Bayer Leverkusen, Germany. He was also employed as an Administrative Assistant to the Vice President of the Bancom Development Corporation, a subsidiary of Bankers’ Trust, New York. In his desire to broaden his horizon and seek new adventures, he immigrated to Canada in 1971. Upon arrival in Montreal, he got involved with the Filipino community. He was elected as a member of the board of directors of the Philippine Association of Montreal & Suburb (FAMAS). With the depth of his love for the Filipino culture and tradition, he founded the Philippine Dance Theater of Montreal in 1973. He developed and discovered talents for his dance troupe and began performing in various cultural functions around Montreal most notably during the 1976 Montreal Olympics. The group was also invited to perform during Canada Day and in Man and His World. In 1980, he choreographed the Bb. Pilipinas Canada Beauty Pageant which was held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Montreal, Quebec. He was one of the founding officers of the Federation of Filipino Canadian Associations of Quebec. While he was with the Federation he introduced and choreographed the very first debutante/cottilon Ball in Montreal which was held at the Sheraton Centre Hotel. From 1988 to 1990, he served as a member of the board of directors with the Philippine Folk Arts Society of Quebec where he directed the debutantes’ ball held at the Chateau Champlain. He was a member of the board of directors of the Association of Oriental Cultures of Montreal and also served as a member of the Canadian Folk Art Council of Canada. From Page 3 MAKATI MAYOR Muslim rebel group in the southern Philippines Security forces are on maximum alert in the south after a series of bomb blasts in five urban centres this month. The blasts were blamed on Abu Sayyaf. a AUTO ECOLE COOL DRIVING SCHOOL 7370 Cote St. Luc Suite 118 Montreal, Quebec H4W 1P9 Tel.: 514-509-9390 Fax: 514-509-9389 SPECIAL OFFER 12 COURSES $240, CD + Book Also included: Car for exam Call Paul François 514-509-9390 Free Pick Up from the Metro: • Vendome • Villa Maria • Cote Ste-Catherine • Cote des Neiges • Plamondon www.filipinostar.org From Page 2 MAKATI MAYOR would abide by the decision of the courts. "We are for the rule of law and we are awaiting a copy of the temporary restraining order (injunction) and we will act accordingly," said presidential spokesman Ignacio Bunye. Hundreds of people have turned up outside Binay's office buildings to show their support for the lawyer and Marine colonel reservist. The court ruling delaying the suspension for 60 days looks to have averted a potential political crisis and the prospect of mass street protests threatened by Binay supporters, who had vowed to protect their mayor. Earlier Thursday, Bunye said the government was working to "exhaust all fair and even handed means" to defuse the crisis. "We appeal for calm and sobriety and urge all concerned not to politicize this issue or use it for media grandstanding," Bunye said. Opposition figures, including former president Corazon Aquino, have expressed their support for Binay, and warned that the crisis could explode into wider unrest on the streets if he was forcibly evicted by police. Appointed mayor by Aquino in 1986, Binay has steadily built Makati into one of the wealthiest cities in the Philippines, with revenues last year in excess of 6.66 billion pesos (133 million dollars). He mouths a populist line and is known to be close to urban poor communities living in the shadow of Makati's skyscrapers. The mayor is also a staunch ally of deposed president Joseph Estrada, who is under house arrest while being tried for corruption after he was ousted by a popular revolt in 2001 and a replaced by Arroyo. From Page 3 7 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 TYPHOON Rabonza said the typhoon has affected at least 1.02 million people or 825,493 families in the regions. Of the number, Rabonza said 2,524 families or 15,711 persons are still housed in evacuation centers. Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz, who is concurrent NDCC chairman, said the typhoon destroyed 117,000 houses, which is way above the houses damaged by four typhoons that hit Quezon province in 2004. "(We) would want to bring to higher level of consciousness the damage that was caused by the typhoon so that we can ask our compatriots, Filipino citizens and the business community in the Philippines and the international community to help in giving materials and tools to people in order to repair their houses," said Cruz. Cruz wrote to Nileema Noble, the United Nations resident coordinator and UN Development Project resident coordination, seeking similar assistance, which the international body has extended in past calamities. "These (damages) present a challenge for the Philippine Government as we at the NDCC begin to map out rehabilitation plans. A particular challenge is how to address the suffering brought about by the total destruction of some 117,000 houses," Cruz told Noble. "For this reason, the Philippine Government is appealing once again for international assistance. Recalling the timely and valuable assistance extended by the UN and international agencies during the flashfloods of November/December 2004 (Quezon flooding) and the Guinsaugon, Southern Leyte landslide of February 2006, we trust that the same help shall be forthcoming," Cruz added in the letter. The Ginsaugon landslide has left at least 140 people dead and close to 1,000 others missing. The landslide was trigged by a continuous heavy downpour, burying the entire village, including an elementary school building. Senator Richard Gordon, chairman of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC), said the damage caused by Milenyo was bigger compared to the damages incurred from the Quezon flashfloods and the Guinsaugon landslide combined. Typhoon Milenyo is the strongest to hit the Philippines capital in a decade a Imelda Marcos wins one of many corruption cases October 6, 2006 Former Philippines first lady Imelda Marcos wept after a court acquitted her of graft charges, though many more cases against her are still pending. Marcos, 76, broke down in tears when the verdict was read in the special anti-corruption court known as the Sandiganbayan. floral scarf, told reporters Friday. A Marcos subordinate, former human settlements deputy minister Conrado Benitez, was also acquitted. Imelda Marcos was chairman of the foundation while Benitez was its president when it did work for the human settlements ministry in 1977. Imelda Marcos called on President Former first lady Imelda Marcos of the Philippines speaks with reporters outside a courtroom after an anti-graft court's ruling finding her innocent of corruption in one of dozens of civil and criminal cases against her in Quezon City, north of Manila, October 6, 2006 The court ruled that her presence in 1977 on the board of a non-profit foundation that did consultancy work for the now defunct human settlements ministry, which she headed, did not constitute corruption. The graft case is one of more than 500 civil and criminal suits filed against the former first family and the estate of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos, who was toppled in a bloodless coup in 1986. The Marcoses are accused of embezzling up to 10 billion dollars from state coffers during their 20 years in power. "I thank the Lord for my acquittal and the vindication of the Technology Resource Center Inc., a truly humanitarian and compassionate program, for the Filipino people," the widow, in a purple dress and a silk Gloria Arroyo to order a government audit of the funds of the foundation, which was taken over by the government after the fall of the Marcos regime. She alleged its original funds of 400 million pesos (eight million dollars) have been dissipated by managers appointed by subsequent governments. She meanwhile dismissed suggestions that her acquittal was part of a deal with the Arroyo government, which has offered to settle the hundreds of cases against the Marcoses out of court. "I'm cordial to everybody. I have always said that I don't want a compromise. I wanted a legal resolution because I believe in the courage and integrity of our courts," she said. a Wo k & T h é Re s t a u r a n t Need Money? Do you have a full time job? If yes, call (514) 344-1499 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 Family Combo for 2 AND GET CASH NOW! Good & Bad Credit Accepted $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 Arellano High Reunion The Arellano (Public) High School Class 1957 will celebrate its Golden Jubilee in February 2007 in Manila. The U.S.-Canada group of Class ‘57 is in full gear preparing for the golden jubilee, and will have its third meeting this year on September 30 at the residence of Servodeo Reyes in Oxnard, California. Arellano (Public) High School is the former Manila North High School of the preWorld War II era. It is located on Teodora Alonzo Street in Santa Cruz, Manila. The graduating class of 1957 had 1500 students. The jubilarians’ intended legacy to their alma mater is a new stage in the inner court. The weeklong celebration for Class ’57 will start on January 28, 2007, with a dinner party at the Canyon Woods Resort in Tagaytay, to be hosted by Herman and Lita Gamboa. Lita Eugenio-Gamboa is the President of the Class ‘57 Alumni Association. The other activities planned for the week are excursion to Villa Escudero in Tiaong, Quezon, or Corregidor, and a city tour of Binondo, Manila. The celebration will culminate with a general homecoming dinner at a hotel in Makati on February 4. The Most Distinguished Alumnus and the Most Outstanding Golden Jubilarian will be announced at the grand reunion. Certificates of Recognition will be awarded as well. Erlinda Waddell-Taylor and Lucille Po-Deniega, coordinators for the U.S.-Canada Group, are in continuous search for Class ’57 members in the United States and Canada, so that no alumni will miss this once-in-a-lifetime golden event. For update on the Arellano Class ‘57 Golden Jubilee, please contact Linda at (626)-284-9553 or Lucille at (949) 5871394.Please contact Nora Espiritu 514-932- The successful activity resulted in one hundred and five (105) new passports issued, notarization of sixty-four (64) documents, issuance of twenty (20) fingerprint forms for National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) clearances, four (4) visa applications, four (4) Balikbayan stamps, as well as seven (7) Oaths of Allegiance for the reacquisition/retention of Philippine citizenship. A much-awaited and well-appreciated service by the Filipino community in Quebec, the consular outreach program is a regular project of the Embassy aimed at serving the consular needs of kababayans, primarily caregivers, who only have weekends to attend to the renewal of their passports and other consular needs. The team assisted applicants in renewing their passports, taking of fingerprints for NBI clearances, as well as with various notarial services. Members of the team also fielded queries from the public regarding the reacquisition or retention of Philippine citizenship, the Balikbayan program, as well as other programs of the Philippine Government. The team was headed by Consul General Joseph Gerard B. Angeles, with Consul Shirley E. Banquicio, Vice Consul Rhenita B. Rodriguez, Mrs. Angela R. Conag, Mr. Al E. Rosales, Mrs. Elizabeth A. Alberto and Mrs. Josephine L. Gonato. They were assisted by officers of the Philippine Association of Montreal and Suburbs, Inc. (FAMAS). During the consular clinic, the team likewise took the opportunity to invite qualified Filipinos who have not registered as overseas absentee voters (OAV) to do so before the deadline for OAV registration, to enable them to participate in the May 2007 national elections. The Embassy team will return to Montreal on Sunday, 26 November 2006, for its final bimonthly consular outreach for the year. Opinion-Ed September 27, 2006 Conservative Cuts Hurt Average Canadians By: The Honourable John McCallum, Liberal Official Opposition Critic for Finance Canada is enjoying a time of unparalleled prosperity. Thanks to 13 years of Liberal government, our country’s debt is under control, our economic growth is high and for the ninth year in a row, the Government of Canada has reported a near-record surplus. But despite our prosperity, this week, the Conservative government chose to slash $1 billion in federal funding to Canada’s social programs. These mean-spirited cuts targeted our most vulnerable and marginalized citizens: low-income families, Aboriginal Canadians, immigrants, youth, the disabled and the illiterate. Treasury Board President John Baird told us the cuts were necessary in the name of “responsible spending.” Finance Minister Jim Flaherty told us that these cuts were essential so that the government could give Canadians “value for money.” But in reality, the only thing these Mike Harris hold-over ministers have done for average Canadians is to raise their income taxes while cutting their social programs. That doesn’t sound much like value for money to me. Status of Women Canada will now have 40 percent less money to help bridge the gender gap so that all women –regardless of income or ethnicity –can fully participate in Canada’s labour force. The Youth Employment Strategy, which helped 50,000 young people find work this past October 2006 summer has also been axed, as has the Youth International Internship Program, which gives young people the chance gain international work experience and make our country more dynamic and prosperous in the decades to come. The Harper government also has plans to eliminate the $11 million First Nations and Inuit Tobacco Control Strategy, despite the fact that cancer is quickly becoming the number one cause of death among First Nations people and the Inuit. The list of cuts goes on and on: $18 million cut from adult literacy programs, $45 million cut from affordable housing initiatives, and $39 million cut from regional economic development programs that create jobs where they’re needed most. If you look closely you can see a pattern emerging. The Harper government’s funding cuts only seem to target people who don’t tend to vote Conservative anyways. In fact, the only minority groups the Conservatives seem to be interested in supporting is the minority of Canadians who supported them in the last election. While the Conservatives continually claim to be standing up for Canada, the truth is they are only interested in standing up for those who support their narrow policies: their core constituency of voters. Through this latest round of spending cuts, the Harper government has sent a message to Canadians: if you don’t fit the profile of a potential Conservative voter, you are out of luck. For more information: David Hurl Office of John McCallum (613) 996-3374 8945. Press Release No. 19-2006 25 September 2006 PHILIPPINE EMBASSY IN OTTAWA REACHES OUT ANEW TO FILIPINOS IN MONTREAL, QUEBEC Ambassador Jose S. Brillantes sent a team from the Philippine Embassy to Montreal, Quebec, on Sunday, 24 September, to conduct another consular outreach program at the Philippine Centre on Van Horne Avenue. Hundreds of Filipinos, FilipinoCanadians and Canadians in Montreal and nearby cities in the province of Quebec flocked to the Embassy’s ‘passport-on-wheels’ program yesterday to avail themselves of the consular services offered by a team from the Embassy. You are invited to join us in our 17th anniversary and graduation ceremony on Saturday, October 28, at Ruby Rouge Restaurant 1008 Clark St. Montreal (Chinatown) Dr. Jesus Pelausa cracking jokes and making everyone laugh at his birthday party,last October 15, 2006 at Bill Wong Restaurant. Reserve and pick up your tickets by calling 514-485-7861 Deadline: October 26, 2006 The celebrant dances with his wife to open the dance during his birthday party. www.filipinostar.org 9 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 Historically yours particular date, July 1969, when I was then preparing to leave the Philippines, to fly to Seattle Washington USA, holding a visitors visa as my passport. I was then very busy attending to my flight and with my luggage in my bedroom. My mother came in and told me to bring a copy little prayer booklet with her signature in it, a Mother of perpetual help amulet and again a bunch of pictures neatly placed in a nicely decorated plastic bag. Yes, more pictures, Filipino costumes, to my surprise a photo of Dr. Jose Rizal, Gen. Douglas MacArthur, Manuel Quezon, of our family pictures and other pictures, worthwhile remembering. Since I was so eager and still am I very nervous about my first flight to a far away country I hardly knew, and had only read in books and saw in pictures, my answer was; “Mama, those pictures are black etc. were included. Before I could say anything , she looked me straight in the eye “Where ever you go or where ever you may be, you must keep in mind that you are still a Filipino, heart and soul Lina V. Fernandez A Blast from the Past A picture, they say, is worth a thousand words and a lifetime of memories, and we all tend to believe it. But we must be careful to define what we mean by “worth.” How many words are there in a picture? Who took the picture and why ? Miss Felicidad Rosales ure. My great mistake was that I had been so excited giving away my memorable pictures for people to see and forgot to save a copy for myself. It is always best to save the most The Way We Were. The date of the picture was taken in the early ‘80s during the Filipino Canadian Friendship Society of Quebec Anniversary party. Mrs. Fely R. Cariño was the Founder and first President. Photo shows from left: Mrs. Estela Lim, Dr. Emilo Lim, Dr. Jaime Cariño, Fely R. Cariño, Puring de la Cruz and Almario Bamba. What makes this picture worth remembering? I asked Fely for a picture from the past and she gave me this photo above. Analyzing the worth of this picture, it dawned to me that this picture has a deep meaning to Fely as well as Estela. Where was the picture taken and how it was taken , who loved the picture and who hated it. Love it or hate it , every picture tells a story, it recalls history and brings out the image of the way we were. Photographs are the ultimate testament of the past. Even a simple snapshot can ometimes trigger a host of memories. One author wrote, “ And through stories of holidays long past, places now completely changed and people once young but now grayhaired and wrinkled, families connect to the past through pictures, memorabilia’s and historical facts that weave a connection between the generations.” Today with families now separated and scattered around the globe most of them looking for greener pastures as well as for economic reasons or education that it can be difficult to preserve these unique pictures and stories. But in this day of computer imaging a little preparations, a few tools and the desire to create a lasting legacy, anyone can gather and record their own precious memoirs and diaries.. Speaking of Pictures, I think it would be best to write the names, date and place at the back of the photos and a little info. It comes in handy for future references. There was a times when I have to call long distance and asked the person at the other end of the line, to help me identify the pict memorable photos to look back and reminisce the past specially when it comes to family pictures. Miss Felicidad Rosales UNIVERSITY OF MANILA (UM) Student Leader Delegate - 1955 Society Editor of UM Official Organ “The Campus Leader”, University of Manila’s Singing Sweetheart Memories Of You. Photo - Lina and Tony Fernandez. Our happy years together in Seattle, Washington, USA. Tony is the one person I will never forget for the rest of my life. We were together for almost 35 years. Two years ago in 2004, my husband joined his parents and my parents in heaven. Tony P. Fernandez Lyceum University Manila Student Leader Delegate 1955; Spanish Writer - Student Council, Spanish to English Translator University Publications and Library Spanish Reporter, El Debate I have a story to tell you. It is back in those years gone by. I still can clearly remember that and white and looks very old, I don’t need old pictures, I can have better and beautiful colored pictures in America.” My Mother just gave me a sweet and loving smile, but unknowingly, she already had sneak some pictures and some Filipino costumes inside one of my luggage. We had to drive to Manila from Baguio City to catch my 3:00 pm flight. When my father, mother and some members of my family and friends were at the Manila International Airport, to bid me good bye, and while I was about to board my 3:00 pm flight, my mother was the last in line to kiss me goodbye. She hurriedly handed me a and family comes first. My prayers will always protect you, take care, I love you. I hugged and kissed my beloved Mother goodbye. Knowing my mother, quite well, I’d say she was a character. As an English, music and history teacher she was a fair disciplinarian. Off course, I won’t forget my l dear Father, who was a great Dad and a gentleman. As a Government employee auditor, he also audits his family’s expenses pretty well. Little did I know that this trip to Seattle Washington, USA, was a stepping stone for me to enter Canada. Three years after staying in Seattle, and still on a student visa , my brother Eddie Valdez, a nurse by profession, was able to sponsor me as a relative. Upon receipt of my Canadian visa, I dropped all my school subjects, I bid goodbye to my dear aunt Mary, my Uncle, cousins, my teachers and all my friends then hurried to the airport and scheduled a flight to See page 18 Blast from the Past 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 Philippine Cusine Ingredients Pork Dinuguan Recipe 2. In a 2-quart stainless steel or porcelain saucepan heat oil and saute garlic and onions for a few minutes. Add pork liver patis salt and MSG. Saute for 5 minutes more. 3. Add vinegar and bring to a boil without stirring. Lower heat and simmer uncovered until most of the liquid has evaporated. October 2006 Serves 4 Sangkap Panimpla konting black fungus 1 lb patola 8 oz karne ng baboy 1 kutsarang nahiwang luya 1 kutsaritang toyo (light) 1/2 kutsaritang asukal 1 kutsaritang arina konting paminta black fungus and ginger. Boil again. Parboil for 10 minutes. Put in lean pork and angled luffa. Parboil until cooked. Season with salt. Serve. Seasonings black fungus pinch angled luffa 1 lb lean pork 8 oz shredded ginger 1 tbsp sugar 1/2 tsp cornflour 1 tsp pepper pinch light soy 1 tsp Black Fungus Pamamaraan 4. Add broth. Simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in blood and sugar; cook until thick stirring occasionally to avoid curdling. This dish is so named bacause the sauce is made with the blood of a freshly-slaughtered pig. tropical island destinationsmore recipes Yield: 4 Servings 1 lb Pork diced 1 ts Salt 2 tb Oil 1/4 ts MSG (optional) 2 Cloves garlic minced 1 1/2 c Broth 1 Onion diced 1 c Frozen pigs blood 1/4 lb Pork liver diced 2 ts Sugar 1/2 c Vinegar 3 Hot banana peppers 2 tb Patis (fish sauce) 1/4 ts Oregano (optional) 5. Add hot banana peppers and oregano and cook 5 minutes more. Serve hot. Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 50 minutes Sopas na may patola (Soup with angled lufta) 1. Ibabad ang black fungus. Gutay-gutayin. Ilublob sa kumukulong tubig at hugasan sa malamig na tubig. 2. Hugasan ang karne ng baboy at hiwain. Ibabad sa seasonings nang 20 minuto. 3. Hugasan ang angled luffa. Hiwain nang palihis at makapal. 4. Magpakulo ng tbig. Ilagay ang black fungus at luya. Pakuluan sa mataas na init nang 10 minuto. Ilagay ang baboy at angled luffa. Ituloy ang pagpapakulo hanggang maluto. Lagyan ng asin. Ihain. Angled Lufta PORK Method 1. Soak black fungus well. Tear into flowerets. Scald and rinse in cold water. 2. Wash lean pork and slice. Marinade with seasonings for 20 minutes. 3. Peel and clean angled luffa. Cut diagonally into thick pieces. 4. Bring 4 cups of water to the boil. Add 1. Cover pork with water and simmer for 30 minutes. Remove from broth and dice. Save 1-1/2 cups of broth. Shredded ginger 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: [email protected] or Fax: 514-485-3076 COMPUTERS • Business Data Base • Repairs & Trouble Shooting • Web Page Design Call Joseph - 514-651-9745 514-630-9701 ext. 273 Centre 2000 Professional Training Institute Specials for Summer Courses offered: • • • • • • • Dental Assistant Dental Secretary Pharmacy Assistant Nursing Aide Daycare Provider Security Agent French Course (conversation) Info:Call 514-342-1000 4950 Queen Mary Rd. Suite 351 (Front of Snowdon Metro) Garage, infront of Jewsih General Hospital, $100/month Call 514-793-2524 DAY CARE COURSE JANITOR WANTED lLive-in janitor, apartment building, free apartment, in Lachhine Tel. 514-582-8865 APARTMENT FOR RENT 4 1/2, 3 1/2 in LACHINE, electric heating, hardwood floors, washer and dryer outlets, renovated, Now special price, Call 514-582-8865 GARAGE FOR RENT Early childhood education courses to prepare you to work with children’s centers, day care or your own home day care business. Call : 514-485-7861 DRIVING Quebec certified driving instructor with 11 years experience in giving driving lessons. Exam car vailable Toton 514-969-9622 LECHON BigD's Lechon, telephone number (514) 426-9088 or www.bigd-lechon.com. MOVING Anywhere in Canada Contact Joseph - 514-651-9745 514-489-6968, ext. 113 OFFICE EQUIPMENT Canon bubble jet, for 3 paper sizes, color, or black and white, office furniture, etc. Call 514-485-7861 ROOM FOR RENT Big Room in an upper duplex, quiet, bright, clean, heated, newly painted, share duplex with 2 other ladies $300 /month, non-smoker Call 514-485-7861 METRO COTE VERTU, Furnished room for rent in private house for non-smoker, woman $280 monthly, everything included 514-747-0880 TUTORIAL DRIVING LESSONS NURSING AID • Mathematics * Car available for EXAM * 1 hour practice only $25 (tax incl.) * Many examples of first time success * packages available MR. KHALIL (514) 965-0903 Get your professional training from a reputable school, good references, Enroll now for courses starting in January 2007 - flexible schedules and payment, Call 514-485-7861 • French • Physics • Science 514-485-7861 www.filipinostar.org The North American Filipino Star 11 October 2006 Earth Talk Dear EarthTalk: What are so-called “debt-fornature swaps” and how do they work? -- Howard W., via e-mail A debt-for-nature swap is an agreement by which a wealthier, developed nation like the United States forgives debt owed to it by a developing country in exchange for a promise to use some or all of the money instead to preserve critical environmental areas. Typically, such deals are brokered by international nonprofit organizations like The Nature Conservancy or Conservation International, which sometimes contribute additional funds to provide grants to local community organizations participating in the projects. One of the largest debt-for-nature swaps to date occurred just recently, in October 2006, when the U.S. agreed to forgive $24.4 million in debt from Guatemala to free up the money for use in forest conservation efforts there. The Nature Conservancy and Conservation International were instrumental in putting that deal together, and each committed $1 million toward Guatemalan conservation initiatives as well. A similar deal will allow Botswana to repurpose $8.3 million in debt payments owed to the U.S. for conservation and restoration of its tropical forests in the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park regions. To date, the U.S. has arranged a dozen debt-for-nature swaps (one under President Clinton and the rest under George W. Bush), forgiving $135 million worth of loans for conservation’s sake from not only Guatemala and Botswana, but also Bangladesh, Belize, Colombia, El Salvador, Jamaica, Panama, Paraguay, the Philippines and Peru. Under the terms of the Tropical Forest Conservation Act, enacted in 1998, developing countries with a tropical forest of global or regional significance, a democratically elected government and plans for economic reform are eligible for debt forgiveness from the U.S. as long as they are willing to undertake conservation efforts accordingly. They also must cooperate with the U.S. on international narcotics control measures while neither supporting terrorism nor violating human rights. While the U.S. has been the leader in encouraging debt-for-nature swaps, other developed countries are starting to get in on the act as well. Germany has forgiven tens of millions of Euros owed it by the governments of Indonesia and Bolivia, among others, for the benefit of the environment. And last June, France joined the fray by forgiving $25 million in debt from Cameroon in the name of protecting still pristine stretches of the Congo River Basin, the world's second largest tropical forest after the Amazon. Debt-for-nature deals have not all taken place without some controversy. According to the Uruguay-based World Rainforest Movement (WRM), last September Canada forgave $680,000 in debt from Honduras in exchange for that country’s establishment of tree planting and forest conservation programs. Arranged primarily within a debt-for-nature framework, Canada will actually get credit in the deal toward the greenhouse gas emissions reductions it promised under the international Kyoto Protocol. Says WRM, “The powerful hand of industry is behind this project… this allows a major carbon dioxide-producing country…to be able to avoid implementing real measures to either reduce carbon emissions at their source or to implement the conservation of its own forests.” CONTACTS: Conservation International, www.conservation.org; The Nature Conservancy, www.nature.org; World Rainforest Movement, www.wrm.org.uy. Dear EarthTalk: My grandmother was a home canner, and I'm interested in getting involved myself. Where do I learn about the benefits to my health and to the environment? -- Sylvia Fragiband, Indianapolis, IN For more than a century, home canning has been a popular way to preserve and enjoy homegrown fruits and vegetables, not to mention fresh-caught seafood and other delicacies. One of the key benefits of home canning is limiting exposure to the chemicals and pesticides used on most commercially available produce and seafood. Also, most commercially prepared spreads and sauces contain added sugar, salt and preservatives which are unnecessary in most diets and can even be harmful for people suffering from health problems like diabetes or hypertension. Also, by preserving produce when it is at its peak of ripeness, home canners can indulge in flavorful spreads and sauces all year long, even if the backyard harvest is just a distant memory. And according to Jennifer Wilkins, a nutritional scientist in Cornell University’s Life Sciences department, foods at peak ripeness offer superior nutritional advantages, even when preserved. She cites the example of Vitamin C content in tomatoes increasing when the vegetables are allowed to fully ripen on the vine. Yet another benefit of home canning is self-reliance. “If there is a natural disaster and supplies are short, you will have your own food,” says master gardener and home canner Connie Densmore, who teaches an online course in home canning through the UniversalClass.com website. She adds that home canned foods can last for years without refrigeration (especially useful if the power goes out) while retaining the same taste as the day they were harvested. Prior to the days of widespread use of food preservatives and refrigeration, home canning was one of only a few ways to safely preserve foods from decay at the hands of naturally occurring microorganisms. The home canning techniques developed in the late 1800s to Home-canned foods like these tomatoes will last for years without refrigeration, while retaining the same taste and vitamin content as the day they were harvested." (Getty Images) other illnesses are still effective and in wide use today. Those looking to learn how to home can should consult the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s “Complete Guide to Home Canning,” available free online. The guide details the principles of home canning as well as how to select, prepare and can a variety of foods. The website HomeCanning.com also offers a wealth of information as well as lots of recipes for canning fruits, vegetables and meats. The site is produced by Jarden Home Brands, one of the leading suppliers of home canning jars and equipment. Some other leading purveyors of home canning supplies include the Canning Pantry and Home Canning Supply and Specialties. For more hands-on instruction, would-be home canners should check out the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension’s “So Easy to Preserve” video series. Eight shows, each 20 to 35 minutes long, contain the most up-todate recommendations for home canning, pickling and making jams and jellies. CONTACTS: Canning Pantry, www.canningpantry.com; Home Canning Supply & Specialties, www.homecanningsupply.com; “So Easy To Preserve,” www.uga.edu/setp; “Complete Guide to Home Canning,” www.uga.edu/nchfp/publications/publications _usda.html. 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: [email protected]. Read past columns at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/archives.php. prevent enzymes, mold, yeast and bacteria from spoiling foods and causing botulism and RESTAURANT LA MAISON NEW KUM MON 6565 Cote des Neiges, Montreal, 5047 Henri Bourassa Est Montréal, QC H1G 2S1 QC (Corner Appleton) 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 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 F R E E D E L I V E RY Minimum order of $10 Delivery hours: 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. www.filipinostar.org 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 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 514-733-6029 514-733-1067 For party menu, call Kenny 12 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 The North American Filipino Star Photo Gallery Laging Handa Scouts group went on a fall camping trip last Friday, October 6 to Sunday, October 8, 2006 at Tamaracouta Scout Reserve. As can be seen, the weather was beautiful and the leaves are magnificently colorful. See Tagalog version of camping trip on page 23 by Scout Volunteer Anna May Tappan. www.filipinostar.org October 2006 13 The North American Filipino Star Tickets also available at ticketpro.ca 514-908-9090 Press conference at Rasa Restaurant TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE METROPOLIS 855 Decarie Blvd., St. Laurent Sunday, October 22 - 3:00 PM 14 TOURISM L A U N I O N PROVINCE Situated on the northwestern coast of Luzon, La Union is the gateway to the Ilocos Region. With its strategic location, the province has become the business, education, and government center of the Ilocos. Not only is La Union the region’s center for trade but also of religious devotees who flock to one of the country’s popular pilgrimage destinations, especially during Lent. Agoo, the oldest town of La Union, was once the site of the much publicized divine visitations of the Virgin Mary. The Agoo Apparition Site in San Antonio has established the town as a destination of choice for Marian devotees. Agoo comes alive most on Semana Santa, or the Holy Week, which is the week before Easter. Yearly, the townspeople bear witness to ardent devotees relentlessly pulling lifesize statues depicting the 14 Stations of the Cross along the processional roads in Agoo during the Good Friday procession on Semana Santa. But the province is not wanting of natural attractions, thanks to seascapes that make it a watersports paradise. The surf fronting Monaliza in Urbiztondo, San Juan is the best site for board surfing from November to February; other good sites are in Carlatan and Wallace in San Fernando. Scuba diving is ideal in Fagg Reef, which is adorned by sharks, barracuda, sea snakes, Moray eels, and other friendly sea creatures, and Research Reef, which is endowed with several tunnels, caverns, and crevices. The North American Filipino Star HISTORY The natives of what is now La Union were already trading with the Japanese when the Spaniards came to the Philippines, the area of Agoo was then known as "Puerto de Japon". Captain Juan de Salcedo explored the region in 1572, followed by Augustinan missionaries who founded the towns of Balaoan, Bauang, and Agoo in the late decades of the 16th century. The province was created on March 2, 1850 out of towns then belonging to Ilcos Sur and Pangasinan. Luciano Almeda headed the provincial government for a time during the Philippine Revolution while General Manuel Tinio occupied San Fernando in May 1898. After the battle in Aringay River on November 19, 1899, the American troops took controll of the province. A civil government was established in La Union in 1901. A year later, La Union ceded a narrow strip of land to Amburayan which later became a subprovince of the old Mountain Province. The majority of the population are Ilocanos. Some Pangasinenses are found in the southern part of the province, while a substantial group of Chinese Filipinos are in San Fernando, the commercial center. Ilocano is the predominant language of the people. La Union has 20 municipalities which are subdivide into 576 barangays. The Northern towns of Sudipen, Bangar, Luna, Balaoan, Santol, San Gabriel, Baonatan, San Juan and San Fernando comprise the First District. Belonging to the Second District are Bagulin, Naguilian, Burgos, Bauang, Caba, Aringay, Agoo, Tubao, Sto. Tomas, Rosario and Pugo. San Fernando is moving forward to become a component city. October 2006 products are rice, corn tobacco, garlic, sugarcane and cassava. Grapes are extensively grown in Bauang. The rich Lingayan Gulf is the main fishing ground. Cottage industries include blanket-weaving, basketry, shellcraft, pottery and furniture-making. La Union is also well known for its basi-making industry, the Ilocano native wine made from fermented sugarcane juice. Points of interests in La Union La Union's favored beaches include Bauang Beach, the San Fernando beach area and San Juan Beach which is known worldwide for its year-round surfing waves One of the beaches in the San Fernando area Agoo Basilica, La Union - It enshrines the miraculous image of Our Lady of Charity. This imposing structure of Mexican-Baroque architecture is the venue of religious rites, foremost of which is the Semana Santa. La Union has predominantly hilly terrain which gradually rises eastward from the shore.The western border is a coastal plain of raised coral and alluvia (sand or clay deposited by flowing water) overlaying older sediments. East of this palin are rolling hills parallel to the coast covering a wide portion of the central area. The province has two pronounced seasons - dry from November to April and from May to October. From its inception as a province up to the Second World War, La Union experienced transformations in the socio-cultural and politico-economic aspects. After the War, rehabilitation and reconstruction were done, eventually propelling the province as the center of commerce and trade and the administrative center of Region I. The main sources of livelighood are farming and fishing. The main Bacsil Ridge Located 9 kilometers northeast of San Fernando town proper through the San Fernando-Bagulin Road, Bacsil Ridge was the last bastion of the retreating Japanese Imperial Army in the province. Later, the Ridge constituted the East Flank of the 121st Infantry of the United States Armed Forces in the Philippines, Northern Luzon (USAFIP, NL) during the Liberation in 1945. Filipino-Chinese Pagoda The Macho Temple at San Fernando is believed to be the only one built with five gates. It enshrines the image of the Virgin of Caysasay, the patroness of the Filipino-Chinese residents. Museo de La Union Located at the Provincial Capitol ground in San Fernando, the Museum showcases archeological finds in La Union of the Pre-Spanish period. www.filipinostar.org Luna Watchtower This rotund structure built along the shore in Luna during the pre-Spanish time was used as lookout point for impending attacks by pirates. Learn French the fast and easy way Register now at Gilmore International College 514-485-7861 15 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 ENJOY YOUR CHRISTMAS BREAK Reserve now with Gilmore College You have no reason to refuse our offer: 1. Luxury bus tour 2. Strong Canadian dollars! It is the best time to travel to the United States of America. 3. Enjoy the warmth of Disney World, Enjoy Daytona Beach in Florida 4. Professional tour guide all the way with you. Orlando Disney World 9-Day Tour via Baltimore, Washington & New York Departure: December 26/30, 2006 Daytona Beach & Orlando Disney World: Magic Kingdom, Univesal Studio, Epcot Center, Sea World Cost: Quad $488 Triple $568 Twin $ 648 Single $898 Included: Transportation,Hotel Room, Tour Guide Not Included: Entrance Fee, Tour Guide Tips, Meals, and Insurance Entrance Fee: over 9: US$ 260. 3-9 Child US$220.00 Hours: Mon.-Tues. Wed. Thursday -Friday Saturday 8 AM-5 PM 8 AM-9 PM 8 AM-5 PM Closed on Sundays. Fill up your freezer for the winter season. 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 1.19 lb Home smoked meat 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 Tel.: 344-3670 4.79lb 10 lbs & over 2.99lb 2.99lb Crispy pata available starting Friday and the weekend Regular smoked bacon Beef short ribs Fresh Belly with skin Starting Friday - 5:00 to 9:00 P.M. Saturday & Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. 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. 2.29lb 8.29lb Regular Buffet $6.99 1.39lb 4.69lb St.Chrysostome St. Remi St. Edouard Napierville Fresh pork blood Fresh bacon Fresh liver Pork skin 203 Havelock Available Sherrington Barrington Hemmingford Jackson Road 202 219 Lacolle Sortie Exit No.6 Canada 219 Parc Safari 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 www.filipinostar.org 15 16 The North American Filipino Star Angel getting ready for role in ‘Robin’ boyfriend, the late young actor Miko Sotto died in a mysterious circumstance. In the movie, her boyfriend, played by Miko's cousin, Oyo Boy Sotto, who is now her real-life boyfriend, died and refuses to leave her. Seems like a true-to-life role? “Not really,” she counters. “In the story, Oyo and I only had a short romance before he died. But he scared me to the max.” Angel's leading man in “Txt” is Dennis Trillo. Also in the cast are Julia Clarete, Dante Rivero, Perla Bautista and Eugene Domingo. “Txt,” a coproduction of Regal Entertainment, Inc. and APT Entertainment, opens October 18. a October 2006 complications from a massive stroke he suffered in 2004. He was 68. Once dubbed “Frank Sinatra of the Philippines,” Mercado was one of the leading television hosts during the sixties up to the eighties. His wife Marivic described him as “the country’s best [TV and events] host, a legendary broadcaster and a loving father and husband.” a It's Cesar Montano This Time Maui Bares All There is no iota of doubt that Angel Locsin is among the top favorites among our young actresses. Oozing with sex appeal, Angel perks up men even if she doesn't really bare her soul and all. In fact, in her socalled sexy pictorials which came out in men's magazines, she hardly showed flesh. Still, she's considered one of the sexiest among her peers. And women and children adore her as a superheroine in fantasy series like “Mulawin,” “Darna,” and “Majika.” Even in her dramatic roles in the movies like “Kuya,” “Singles,” “Let The Love Begin,” “I Will Always Love You,” among others, Angel comes as someone one could emphatize with. She's good at almost everything she does. The audience shivered with her in the horror film, “Sigaw,” that we are almost sure, the same thing will happen with her new thriller, “Txt” which is showing next week. “My role is so difficult here,” says Angel. “After every shoot, I feel groggy as it seems every take was real.” Everyone knows that her former No, Maui Taylor didn’t shed off her clothes this time. But her recent radio interview was no less delectable than her bold flicks and pictorials. Guesting on a radio showbiz talk show, the former Hot Babe, revealed a few secrets about her love life, career and some showbiz personalities. While supposedly strapped to a lie detector machine, Maui gamely answered questions from listeners. She revealed that there’s indeed a sex video of her and ex-boyfriend Brian Revilla, which they made while they were still on. The tape is with Brian but she is not worried at all that that he would leak it. She also admitted she had undergone breast augmentation as well as surgery on her chin and nose. Then she spilled the beans on an alleged gay relationship between one of her male friends who now lives in Australia and singer Erik Santos, the current boyfriend of sexy comedienne Rufa Mae Quinto. Maui said her friend broke off with Erik upon learning of the singer’s affair with Rufa Mae. a Eddie Mercado, 68 Cesar Montano is the latest in a string of showbiz personalities being hounded by the taxman. The Bureau of Internal Revenue has charged Montano, the president of movie outfit CM Films, before the Quezon City prosecutor’s office for failing to produce his firm’s accounts books and other financial records for 2004. The charge is similar to the one lodged against ABS-CBN executive vice president for entertainment Charo Santos-Concio over her alleged failure to present account records of Franmar Corp. Montano said, “As far as I am concerned, I have no problem with the BIR. I’ve always had the reputation of being a good taxpayer, that’s why I was surprised when I was told about the case.” His manager, Norma Japitana, said Montano was “the fourth biggest taxpayer among entertainers” in 2001. He said he had also heard rumors that his tax woes were “politically motivated” because oppositionist Senator Panfilo Lacson is reportedly eyeing him as his vice mayoralty bet in Manila. “Maybe the administration feels threatened,” he said, but the thing is, I am not yet sure if this will push through because I’ll be busy making three movies, including the ‘Ninoy’ (Aquino) biopic, next year.” a Meryl at Bernard Kasal Na Isa pang isyu na ikinakabit kay Veteran TV host Eddie Mercado passed away on September 18 due to Willie ay ang pagtutol daw nito sa www.filipinostar.org October 2006 pagpapakasal ng kanyang anak na si Meryl Soriano sa kanyang boyfriend na si Bernard Palanca. Tila biglaan kasi ang desisyong pagpapakasal nina Meryl at Bernard Palanca. Isang linggo ang nakaraan matapos sabihin nila Meryl at Bernard sa publiko kung gaano nila kamahal ang isa’t isa ay agad naming nabalita na nagpakasal sa huwes ang dalawa. Ayon sa mga chika na aming nasagap, naiyak daw itong si Willie nang malaman na nagpakasal ang kanyang anak habang siya ay nasa Las Vegas. Mukha raw hindi pa talaga handa si Willie na magasawa na ang kanyang anak. At iniintriga pa na ayaw daw ni Willie kay Bernard bilang manugang. Si Mayor JV Ejercito ng San Juan ang nagkasal sa dalawa. Isang simpleng civil wedding ang naganap at ilan lang ang nakasaksi sa seremonya. Pero kung tutol nga itong si Willie sa kasalan, bakit ang balita ay ang kanyang wife na si Liz ang siya raw nag-asikaso ng gown ni Meryl? a 17 The North American Filipino Star "plenty people made kontra," including her mom, former President Cory Aquino, who told Kris to choose a Christian name instead. TitaCory reportedly told Kris, "What if when the child grows up, Oprah is not anymore as popular as she is now?” a Ruffa to Anchor Model Search Brother Celebrity Edition,” the former escort girl is besieged with movie projects as well as romantic proposals. Keanna is busy promoting her first starrer, “Binibining K,” produced by Reality Entertainment. At the same time, she is shooting Viva Films’ “Reyna.” Moreover, she is the current object of affection of two (yes, two) Frenchmen -- a model named Safian and a businessman named Jacques. “I met them at the Embassy Bar,” Keanna said. “I hang out there a lot with my friends. One of the owners of the bar introduced me to Safian.” Keanna still vividly recalls the times she was down and out not too long ago. “My career couldn’t take off despite the gimmicks my former manager had cooked up,” she said. “I was down and out and feeling very sorry for myself,” she admitted. She said she turned to God during those days. “Until now I go to Baclaran church every Thursday to hear Mass,” she said. “No matter how tired I am, I find time for that.” a Juday Nag-aaral Maging Chef Don't Tease Me, I Might Just Run Ruffa Gutierrez sign a contract with Solar Entertainment to host the "Philippines’ Next Top Model," the local version of the US reality show hosted by supermodel Tyra Banks. "When we thought of bringing the show here, we had no else in mind but Ruffa to host it," said Solar big boss Wilson Tieng. "Of course, I got excited when I learned I was the personal choice of Tito Wilson," said Ruffa. "I look forward to the beauty and glamour of the show. Buti na lang Yilmaz (her husband) watches the show in Turkey and he likes it, kaya pumayag for me to host the local version here." Ruffa’s coming and going has sparked rumors that her marriage is on the rocks. "Sorry to disappoint my detractors but Yilmaz and I are okay. We are happy where we are. If some people believe otherwise, that’s their That's Kris Aquino’s reaction to a problem. Basta kami ni Yilmaz, wala newspaper columnist’s claim that the kaming problema." a Queen of Talk had supposedly received the blessings of her mother, former Keanna is On Top of President Cory Aquino, to run in the May 2007 senatorial elections. The the World columnist further said that Kris’s alleged senatorial ambition was one good reason for abolishing the Senate and amending the Constitution. Kris was obviously piqued by the write-up. “I will not run,” she said. “But if you are pushing for Charter change, don’t step on other people. Why are you always underestimating us? People love artists.” She said some people are just threatened by her fame. Kris herself has confirmed that per her ultrasound test, she is “100 percent pregnant.” She is due to deliver her second child in May.Kris says that if the baby is a boy, he will be named James Jr. after her husband, basketball player James Yap. The couple has not decided on a Keanna Reeves is making the most girl’s name yet. Kris initially wanted Oprah (after her idol Oprah Winfrey). of her newfound celebrity status. After emerging big winner in “Pinoy Big But she changed her mind because Pagkabalik ni Judy Ann Santos mula sa kanyang successful shows sa abroad ay kaagad na nag-enroll si Juday sa isang Culinary School para mag-aral ng Culinary Arts. Pangarap kasi ni Juday na maging isang chef. Isa pa, magagamit niya ang kanyang mga matututunan sa nasabing kurso para sa kanyang business, ang Café Havana. Matagal na talagang balak ni Juday na magaral ng Culinary Arts. Hindi lang niya magawa noon dahil nga sa hectic schedules niya. Habang nasa Amerika si Juday ay kasama niya ang kanyang family at ang kanyang lovey dovey na si Ryan Agoncillo. Sa Amerika daw napag desisyonan ni Juday na mag-aaral pagbalik niya sa Pinas. Habang nasa Amerika itong sina Juday at Ryan ay masinsinang nag-usap ang dalawa tungkol sa pag-aaral ni Juday. Pinayuhan ni Ryan si Juday na kung gusto talaga niyang mag-aral ay hindi na dapat pa niyang ipagpaliban pa. Bukod sa mga shows at pagliliwaliw nina Juday at Ryan ay dumalaw din sila sa kani-kanilang mga relatives sa Amerika. Ipinakilala ng isa’t isa sa kani-kanilang Getting to know, ika nga. Marami tuloy ang nag-iisip na nagbabalak na talagang magpakasal ang dalawa. a Luis at Sam: Sino ang Malapit Sa Puso Ni Toni? Congratulations kina Toni Gonzaga at Luis Manzano sa magandang premiere telecast ng kanilang teleserye, “Crazy For You.” www.filipinostar.org Noong September 11 ang unang episode ng bagong show sa ABS-CBN See Crazy For You page 18 18 The North American Filipino Star People’s initiative: Last hope to Cha-cha BY By Christine Avendaño, Juliet Labog-Javellana Inquirer October 20, 2006 Should the Supreme Court decide next week to shoot down the people’s initiative to amend the Constitution, it will spell the end to the campaign for Charter change, according to a leader of one of the proponents of the signature drive. Eastern Samar Gov. Ben Evardone, spokesperson of the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (Ulap), yesterday said this was his personal assessment of the situation. He said he did not think another mode for Charter change—convening Congress into a constituent assembly to tackle the proposed amendments— would be able to take off. “Con-ass (constituent assembly) will be a lost cause if we lose this [court] battle because the momentum will die down, election fever will set in, the campaign will already be in the people’s minds,” Evardone told reporters during a birthday lunch at the Palace for Gabriel Claudio, President Macapagal-Arroyo’s political adviser. Evardone was referring to preparations for the May 2007 midterm elections, which include the senatorial race. “We are hoping the Supreme Court will render a decision soonest because we are running out of time,” the governor added. He also denied that Ulap—which is composed of governors, mayors and other local officials—had been pressuring the high court to decide in favor of a people’s initiative. 6.3M signatures Ulap and the citizens’ group Sigaw ng Bayan had asked the Supreme Court to reverse the Commission on Elections’ decision in August dismissing their petition to amend the Constitution through the direct initiative of the people. The two groups had claimed to have gathered 6.3 million signatures from citizens seeking a shift from the bicameral-presidential to the unicameral-parliamentary system of government, in compliance with the requirement that the petition should have the signature of at least 12 percent of all registered voters and representing at least 3 percent of voters in each congressional district. They had also asked the Comelec to immediately schedule a plebiscite so that the changes could be submitted to the people for approval. ‘Some pressure’ But the Comelec had junked the petition, citing the high court’s 1997 ruling in Santiago versus Comelec that Congress had yet to pass an enabling law for a people’s initiative. Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban said early this week that the high court was under “some pressure” from interested parties now that it was preparing to issue a decision on the petition for a people’s initiative. Panganiban said, however, that the high court was used to pressure and would not let this affect its independence. He said the high court would hold an en banc session on the petition next week. Malacañang, which supports either a people’s initiative or a constituent assembly to amend the Constitution, had denied pressuring the high court. Nevertheless, the President said in a speech on Thursday night before the Global Forum that she was determined to have the Constitution amended in order to “build a modern Philippines.” The Global Forum is composed of Panganiban and his foreign counterparts in 33 countries, as well as jurists, law experts and members of the law academe. Inhibition Senate Majority Leader Francis Pangilinan said the justices aspiring to replace Panganiban on his retirement at the age of 70 on Dec. 7 should inhibit themselves from deliberations on the people’s initiative petition. He said inhibition was the correct action for these justices to take “in the light of the so-called pressure brought to bear on the Supreme Court justices, the President’s announcement before the [Global Forum] that she wants Charter change to succeed, and [the fact] that a new chief justice is to be appointed by her on Dec. 7.” Pangilinan is the Senate’s representative in the Judicial and Bar Council, which screens nominees for the judiciary. The council submits its final choice to the President, who makes the appointment. “By recusing themselves, the [justices] would be spared the awkward situation wherein the appointment of the new chief justice would be perceived as a reward for taking a stand in favor of Malacañang, whether or not the petition is granted,” he said, adding: “If any of the aspiring justices who may have voted in favor of Malacañang’s position is appointed chief justice on Dec. 7, it may have an adverse effect on the credibility of the Supreme Court. “Inhibition is an available option that should be seriously considered by those who are interested in the post of chief justice.” Beating the deadline Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita acknowledged that time was running out on the campaign for Charter change. He reminded reporters that Jan. 15 was the last day for those running in the May elections to file certificates of candidacy. “We must beat the deadline [to make Charter change happen] before Jan. 15,” he said. a From Page 3 October 2006 CONSTITUTION Commission on Elections’ decision rejecting their people’s initiative for Charter Change. Ermita said President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo remained committed to Charter Change despite the setback from the Comelec. Sigaw ng Bayan spokesman Raul Lambino said there was still enough time to conduct a plebiscite. “If the Supreme Court releases [a favorable] decision on Oct. 25, the Comelec will have at least 60 to 90 days to call for a plebiscite,” Lambino said. But Comelec Commissioner Resurreccion Borra said it was no longer possible to embark on a plebiscite as the poll body had already started preparing for the local and congressional elections in 2007. Borra said the commission needed at least three months to prepare assuming that the Supreme Court upheld the petition for people’s initiative. House Majority Leader Prospero Nograles criticized Senator Joker Arroyo’s claim that the House was pressuring the Supreme Court to rule in favor of Sigaw ng Bayan. The people’s initiative had no bearing on the move by a majority of congressmen to amend the Constitution through a constituent assembly, he said. Leyte Rep. Eduardo Veloso threatened a nationwide campaign against politicians opposing Charter Change. Eastern Samar Gov. Ben Evadone slammed the Senate, saying it had always opposed proposals to shift to a parliamentary form of government. “It is their bloated egos and selfish political agenda that are preventing Charter Change,” he said of the a senators. IMF urges Philippines to keep up reforms, lower debt October 12, 2006 The International Monetary Fund said on Thursday the key challenge for the Philippine economy is to maintain momentum in reforms, which will bolster market confidence and insure against market volatility. In its mid-year assessment of the Philippine economy, the IMF said under current policies, economic growth is likely to increase to 5.5 percent in 2007. It said this could be higher if public debt was lowered further, which would boost investor confidence and investment. "Although on a declining path, the public debt is still higher, with external commercial borrowing requirements continuing to be sizeable," the IMF said. "(IMF) directors encouraged the authorities to sustain fiscal consolidation and other reform efforts to ensure debt sustainability, maintain the confidence of markets, and spur investment and the rate of growth," the a fund added. Atienza pushes Anti-Terror bill Manila Mayor Lito Atienza yesterday urged for the early passage of the Anti-Terror Bill in Congress as soon as it reconvenes after the threeweek recess on Nov. 6. Atienza said the approval of the final version of the Bill will enable President Arroyo to sign it into law and have it put into effect to safeguard the country against terrorists. "This will give us the capability to protect ourselves from terror attacks," Atienza told journalists in the regular Newsstand media forum at the Ambassador Hotel. The Philippines is set to host a series of major international events which require adequate security preparations that an Anti-Terror Bill enacted into law will enhance, he added. "Surely, we do not want to create a very wrong perception that we coddle terrorists," Atienza said. He cited studies that our security laws are now outdated and need to be restrengthened to keep up with modern terrorist tools and tactics to eliminate all types of terrorist threats. It would be recalled that Manila fell victim to terrorist attacks in 2000 on Dec. 30, Rizal Day, when suspected members of Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) affiliated elements bombed Plaza Ferguson fronting the US Embassy and the LRT at the Blumentritt Station killing innocent lives. Atienza said "these are incidents we do not want repeated. That is why we are appealing to the senators to pass the Anti-Terror Bill." a From Page 17 a www.filipinostar.org Crazy For You na pinalabas din sa lahat ng The Filipino Channel (TFC) abroad. Ang first episode ay talaga naman nagpatawa at nagpaiyak sa mga nanood, lalo na sa ating mga kababayang OFW. Nauna dito ay pinagtambal sina Toni at Sam Milby sa pelikulang “You Are The One” na naging hit sa takilya. Ngayon ay aabangan natin kung magiging hit din ang tambalan nina Toni at Luis sa telebisyon. Marami ang nagsasabi na mas click daw ang tambalan Toni at Sam kaysa sa Toni at Luis. Hmmm, mukhang hindi lang sa love magkaribal kay Toni sina Sam at Luis kundi pati sa showbiz. Pero alam n’yo ba na kung marami ang may gusto kay Sam na maging kapareha o ka-loveteam ni Toni, sa tunay na buhay naman ay tila mas pabor ang madir ni Toni na si Luis ang maging boyfriend ng kanilang anak. Ayon daw kasi sa mommy ni Toni, mas kilala raw niya si Luis kaysa kay Sam. Well, hindi natin masisisi si mommy kung si Luis ang mas type niya. Ito kasing si Sam ay mukhang takot umakyat ng ligaw kay Toni. We heard na hindi pa pala nakakapunta itong si Sam sa bahay ni Toni. Mukhang nahihiya o natatakot itong si Sam sa parents ni Toni. In fairness to Toni’s mom, hindi daw siya nakikialam sa kung sino ang dapat gustuhin ng kanilang anak. Na kay Toni pa rin daw ang desisyon kung sino ang kanyang mamahalin. Ay naku Toni ha…ang haba ng buhok mo! October 2006 The North American Filipino Star 19 Arroyo can’t make up mind on nurse tests Nurses who benefited from leakage may face license revocation October 11, 2006 Where the nursing exam leak is concerned, the Arroyo administration flipped, then flopped, then flipped again. The nurses are not amused. After announcing the other week that everyone who took the nursing board exams last June would have to retake two of the five tests, Malacañang late last week hedged on its solution to end the controversy by saying it would wait for a court ruling before making a final decision. The exam had been tainted with allegations that test questions had been leaked and was used by the GA Lapus review centers in Manila and Baguio City. The National Bureau of Investigation (the Philippine equivalent of the FBI) investigated the leak and was supposed to submit its report to Malacañang on Monday (Sunday, U.S.) but at the start of the week asked for more time. Meanwhile, the nursing graduates who took the exam and passed it have been grumbling, as have their parents. Presidential Chief of Staff Michael Defensor admitted that his cell phone had been swamped with text messages protesting President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s plan to issue an executive order calling for a nationwide retake. From all over the country, said Defensor, complainants argued, “Why they should have to suffer when those who benefited from the leakage of the test questions were in Manila and Baguio.” Defensor could only say that the Palace was still looking for ways to “resolve the issue fairly.” Over the weekend, the brewing scandal took a turn for the worse when nursing board reviewer Joel Dumdum said he believed the leakage was more widespread, possibly reaching Davao in Mindanao and Tacloban in the Visayas. He, however, admitted that the stories had been based on hearsay and that he had no actual knowledge of the leak. Dumdum also said that his statement “was hypothetical.” The NBI’s request for more time to conclude its investigation may be due to the heavy penalties the guilty parties are likely to face. Under the PRC (Professional Regulation Act) Modernization Act of 2000, anyone involved in the manipulation of board exams faces imprisonment of up to 12 years, as well as a fine of between P50,000 and P100,000 (around $1,000 to $2,000). Sources at the NBI say that two members of the Nursing Board, two review centers and one nursing school in Metro Manila will be named as co-conspirators in the distribution and dissemination of the test questions for profit. But they have been complaining that numerous hospitals refuse to hire them. To top it off, the possibility that they would fail the exam that they had passed fair and square was putting undue pressure on them, Nursing examinees shout slogans during a rally in Manila October 10, 2006. They opposed the proposal for a retake of the 2006 nursing licensure examination after a leak in the examination was reported. Roughly 17,000 of the 42,000odd examinees who took the controversy-marred exam passed. www.filipinostar.org according to one of the June exam topnotchers. See NURSES EXAM page 22 20 The North American Filipino Star Dual Citizenship For Immediate Release October 19, 2006 Is this a common scenario? You have a project to do and you urgently need a computer to complete it. As you start working on your application you notice that browser on the internet is slow, your printer and scanner does not respond as quickly as it is use to be and any rendering on any media files are impossible. You check your main hard drive and it indicates a considerable memory left. So what is the problem? Your computer might be infected by computer viruses. First thing is to acquire anti-virus program. I would download and run Ad-aware or Spybot Search and Destroy. They will find and delete spyware. Update these programs before you run them. Both are free. I want to say again how pleased I am that you have made the effort to protect your computer. This isn't difficult if you take the time to grasp it Most of it is free. First and foremost, you need anti-virus protection. The link is below. If you are not comfortable with a computer, you may be better off paying for a program. That should get you more handholding. There are many pay programs. Three I like are McAfee, Panda and Symantec. Those Web sites are, respectively: You also need a firewall. Personally, I like ZoneAlarm. It works well & it's free. Another good & free, firewall is Outpost. Don't forget about spyware and adware. These are programs downloaded to the unwary by advertising companies. Some of this stuff is so intrusive that it can cause computer problems. You can eradicate most of it with Ad-aware or Spybot-Search & Destroy. Spybot also will block most spyware and adware programs from roosting on your computer. All of these programs, with the exception of the pay anti-virus products, are available. That address is: http://www.download.com/3000-802210122137.html If you lock down your computer, you are very unlikely to have problems with hackers. Take a little time to learn this stuff & you'll be in great shape! a Al Abdon Video Hollywood Junkies (514) 264-8706 http://www.mcafee.com/us/ http://www.pandasoftware.com/home/ default.asp http://www.symantec.com/index.htm 4715 Van Horne (near Plamondon Metro) Tel.: 514-344-9999 Bubble tea with a variety of flavors By: Raymonde Folco, Liberal Critic for Citizenship and Immigration Although the federal government has not specifically said it is looking into revoking dual citizenship, a spokeswoman in the office of the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration recently told the Globe and Mail that a review is under way. "We will be reviewing the rights and responsibilities of citizenship in the upcoming months," said Pema Lhalungpa, in minister Monte Solberg's office. Ensuring Canada remains a destination of choice for immigrants requires policies that recognize the modern realities of immigration. Immigrants seek our opportunities, our security and our way of life. We, in turn, welcome them, recognizing the culture and diversity they bring to our communities, and the expertise and energy they bring to our economy. In one very important way, Canada's citizenship laws acknowledge that reality. Canada is one of 59 countries in the world which recognize dual citizenship. In essence, dual citizenship allows new Canadians the right to retain the citizenship of both this and their mother country. Similarly, Canadian citizens residing beyond our borders are not required to relinquish their Canadian citizenship in exchange for the citizenship of their new home. Dual citizenship is one of the many reasons Canada remains a model for the international community. It affords Canadians the right to travel and live abroad, in order to share the Canadian experience with the international community. Not only do they have an opportunity to explore the world, but the skills and knowledge that they gain can be brought back and shared with their fellow Canadians. Though it is certainly a progressive and open approach to citizenship, it is also a reflection of the new global community. The fact is, reversing this policy and forcing new Canadians to renounce the citizenship of their previous country, or forcing Canadians to renounce their citizenship when they decide to live abroad, would make Canada a less attractive choice for immigrants. This would impede Canada's ability to attract those immigrants we need to stimulate population October 2006 growth and expand our economy. The fact remains that a Canadian citizen is a Canadian citizen, regardless of where they are from, or where they live. As such, the Liberal Party of Canada does not support any action which seeks to undermine this right to citizenship, simply because someone chooses to live abroad. Further, we do not believe that new Canadians should be forced to abandon their connection to their country of origin in order to enjoy the same rights and responsibilities afforded to Canadianborn citizens. With this conviction comes the understanding that the Canadian government has an obligation to protect its citizens abroad, particularly in instances of humanitarian conflict or crisis - as witnessed this summer during the conflict in southern Lebanon, and last year during the tsunami in South East Asia, in the United States in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, and the earthquake in Pakistan and India. If the Conservative government truly believes in standing up for Canada, it will unequivocally defend our current citizenship laws, and the rights of our citizens - both in and outside our borders. Canadians should expect nothing less. Researchers find new species in box at US museum: Philippine fossil said to be an extinct dwarf buffalo October 20, 2006 Researchers say a box of bones left at a museum in Chicago a decade ago by a curious layman have turned out to contain the only known fossil remains of a dwarf water buffalo that roamed the Philippines in the last ice age. The new species, described in the October issue of the Journal of Mammalogy, has been named Bubalus cebuensis after the Philippine island of Cebu, where the bones were first discovered by a mining engineer in 1958. That engineer, Michael Armas, held onto the bones for nearly 40 years, showing them to a series of people who were stumped by his find.. Finally, in 1995, he showed them to a Chicago doctor, Hamilcar Intengan, who suggested Armas let him take the bones home and bring them to researchers at the city's lakefront museum. When Intengan, a Filipino native, brought the bones to the Field, however, he was kept waiting by museum staff. So he left the box, along with a brief description of where the bones were found and his business See FOSSIL page 23 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: [email protected] 21 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 charge accumulates on the tips for sparking to take place. The irregular and rough edges of cut aluminum foil give the same effect. Interestingly, spoons with their rounded edges don’t have as much tendency to spark. Dishes with metal trim, particularly the ones with elaborate trim will spark, again based on the principle that electrons will rush to the tips of the metal figures and jump or spark to the next. The sparking or the rushing electrons generate enough heat to potentially cause a fire. You would have seen this if you unintentionally left a metal wire tie-wrap or a metal staple in the container you placed in the microwave oven. This brings us to the subject of “microwave-safe” utensils. Microwavesafe means that the utensil or container has very little moisture, if any, and therefore will not be heated up by microwaves. Microwave-safe can also mean that the The Microwave: Is it Safe? Sometime ago, someone asked me if there was any danger in using plastic containers to heat food in a microwave oven. The question, I suppose, was motivated by an internet email message that in 2002 started making the rounds claiming that plastics exposed to microwaves release cancer-causing toxic substances. The email message in its various forms recommended that glass or ceramic be used instead to prepare or reheat food in microwave ovens in order to avoid contaminating the food with undesirable substances that come from heated plastic. The short answer is that while there is a small grain of truth to this circulating email message, contrary to its dire claims, the microwave oven is indeed safe to use with plastic containers that are labelled “microwave-safe.” In this article, I will briefly explain how a microwave works, what the potential risks might be, and why, when used properly, this convenient kitchen appliance is compatible with all food vessels labelled “microwave-safe,” plastics included. First, what are microwaves? Some people still use the expression “nuke the food” when they mean heat the food in the microwave. Although microwaves are a type of radiation, they have nothing to do with radioactivity. Radiation is a general term that covers everything from the powerful cosmic rays and X-rays to visible light, to infrared used in a type of space heater, and to radio waves used to carry radio and television signals. Microwaves are in-between the warm infrared and the useful radio waves. Those ubiquitous television satellite dish-antennas use microwaves to transmit information. Radar uses microwaves. Cellular telephones receive and emit microwaves, but the microwave energy they emit is so low there is no danger of cooking your ears or your brains, in a manner of speaking. The idea of using microwaves as a heating device for food came to – you guessed it – a radar engineer in the 1940s. It is said that when he came too close to a radar device, the chocolate bar in the oven. For example, it is not safe to microwave food in margarine plastic tubs. The plastic used for margarine tubs melt at a lower temperature than microwave-safe plastic. Therefore, there is a strong likelihood that the margarine plastic tub will melt and deform in the microwave oven. Coming full circle to the subject of the safety of microwave plastics, the email message and its various forms that started circulating in the internet in 2002 originated from a concern that the intense heat generated by microwaves might release chemical plasticizers from the plastic container into the food. Plasticizers are incorporated into the starting material used to manufacture flexible plastic products. Without plasticizers, these products would be rigid and even brittle. It is a safe bet that all plastic products that flex have plasticizers. It happens that the plasticizers are known carcinogens. Therefore, the safety of plastics in microwave situations depends on whether plasticizers are in fact released into food upon heating, and to what extent. This is an area about which very little has been published in the scientific literature. What I have found through the databases of medical literature is that plasticizers do leach out of plastic containers heated in the microwave, but that the quantities released are way below the levels that would be considered problematic. As an pocket of his pants melted. The idea of inventing a microwave oven then occurred to him. I cannot verify the truthfulness of this story, but in fact, the first microwave ovens sold in the late 1940s carried the name “Radarange.” It is said that the original Radarange microwave oven was 6 ft tall, weighed more than 300 kg, watercooled and produced 3000 watts of power. Eventually, through advances in technology, the microwave oven evolved into what it is today, a sideways rectangular metal box small enough to fit on a normal kitchen countertop. How do microwaves heat food? Microwave radiation causes water molecules to rotate and vibrate. The friction caused by this motion generates heat. The more power the microwaves nteresting aside, plasticizers are soluble have, the more friction it causes, and the in fatty substances, and therefore, fatty more intense the heat generated. From foods heated by microwave in plastic this, you can see that microwaves will not containers will tend to absorb these be able to generate heat in a completely substances, but again at extremely low dry substance. At the same time, this also levels that do not pose danger. means that the microwave oven will take Health Canada advises that the longer to generate intense heat when the consumer should use only microwavefood has much water in it. Furthermore, just like a regular oven, and contrary to safe plastic ware in microwave ovens. what some may think, microwaves heat This is not to say that other types of from the outside in. Water on the outer material making up the utensil or container food-grade plastic are not safe to use in layers of the food absorbs the microwaves can withstand high temperatures that may the microwave from a toxicological point and get hot, and this heat is transferred to Microwave be generated by the microwaves in the See Page 22 the middle section by conductance. This is why you so often observe uneven heating of food in microwave cooking. Aside from water molecules, microwaves are also able 4661 Van Horne Avenue, Suite 10, to generate heat in sugar and in fat, but to a lesser extent. Montreal, Quebec H3W 1H9 Why are aluminum foil and other metal Tel.: 514-738-8549 • Fax: 514-738-5631 utensils not to be placed inside a microwave oven? Microwaves are able to YOUR SOLUTION FOR PERMANENT RESIDENCE make electrons rush back and forth along the metal which is a conductor. If you remember, what we call electricity is really Mme M. Gauthier, B.A., MBA, President of the company, is a electrons rushing back and forth along former representative of the Mihister of Citizenship and metal conductors such as copper wire or aluminum wire. When a fork is exposed to Immigration. She will help you solve your problems such as: microwave radiation inside an oven, the • Demand for refugee status and related appeals rushing electrons will tend to concentrate • Demand for refugee status outside of Canada on the tips of the tines of the fork. • Detention reviews Eventually (and very quickly), enough Enterprise Immigration Canada Inc. LIFE INSURANCE INCOME TAX Dennis Buenviaje Financial Services Life Insurance, Car/House Insurance and Mortgage Loans referrals Loans, RRSP, RESP, Investments, SegFunds, Bookkeeping, Income Tax Corporation/Registered Commissioner of Oath Address: 4781 Van Horne, Suite 208, Montreal, Quebec H3W 1J1 Across from the Philippine Center Call 514-895-4076, off: 514-344-2506, 626-4226 Also call: Mila Villaflor tel:744-8508 Rose Zaagaata tel. 543-8291, 346-3794 Glen Magbanua tel.: 731-1859 14th yr serving the Filipino community Western Union • Memorandum for PRAA observations • Memorandum for Humanitarian observations • Appeal on all decisions rendered by foreign Canadian Embassies • Visa • Sponsorship inside and outside Canada • Independent Immigration • Inscription to provincial programs such as job offers, investor, entrepreneur, skilled worker • Citizenship application • Job placement (caregivers, nannies) “No victory is ever won without a struggle.” Congratulations to the Winners of Back to School “2005 of P2,500.00each Myrn a Recto, Antonio Vargas, Nancy Pagaray, Emmanuel Francisco, Nova Genir Ma. Lourdes Alea, Servando Buning, Anatalia Donlia We gave P60,000 in winnings ! Congratulations to the 9 winners of the Back to School 2006 Contest! Winners are: From Sariling Atin: Dianne Cimafranca & Wenndolyn, Carasucho From Pat Loung Grocery, Excessa Ferrer & Grace Almeda From DBFS: Eric Pamintuan & Beatriiz de Guzman www.filipinostar.org WE OFFER CONSULTATION & TRANSLATION SERVICES AND WE COMPLETE FORMS WE ALSO OFFER COMMISSIONER OF OATHS SERVICES 22 The North American Filipino Star Defense Secretary downplays travel advisory issue by British Gov’t October 19, 2006 Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz on Wednesday downplayed the latest travel advisory issued by the British government warning its citizens in going to the Philippines as terrorist groups could be in the final stages of planning more attacks. In a press briefing, Cruz said the threat of terrorism is not only faced by Philippines. "In all places worldwide, the threat of terrorism is part of the peoples lives. It's not only here in the Philippines but also outside... in all countries." Britain on Tuesday said the Philippines is facing a serious threat from terrorist groups. The Britist government made the warning days after bombings struck four cities and towns in the South, resulting in the killing and wounding of scores of people. Cruz said this is not the first time the country faces a terrorism threat even as he assured that the holding of the Association of Southeast Asian Nation (Asean) summit in Cebu this December would not be affected by the threat. "I believe we can respond to such scenarios. This (threat from terrorists) is not the first time that we are in a From Page 19 situation like this. We've been in worse situation and weve been able to manage (them)," he said. Cruz also noted that the military and police are on a high state of alert in the South following reports that the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and the Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) are planning to launch diversionary attacks there. Government forces are presently pursuing JI operatives Dulmatin and Omar Patek and Abu Sayyaf chieftain Khadaffy Janjalani in the outskirts of Sulu since Aug. 1. "The pursuit operations will continue so that they (terrorists) cannot regroup and plan," said Cruz, referring to the offensive against the ASG and JI operatives in Sulu dubbed Oplan Ultiman. Meanwhile, the Defense chief expressed gladness over the seizure of some 200 kilos of ammonium nitrate (use in making bomb) at the Zamboanga City pier last Tuesday. "Fortunately, we intercepted 200 kilos of ammonium nitrate which they (terrorists) are going to use in the bombing," he said. He also reiterated his appeal for Congress to pass the anti-terrorism bill. "It's important to pass the anti-terrorism bill so well have a legal tool to fight terrorism," he added. a From page 21 MICROWAVE iof view, but that the microwave-safe plastic has the advantage of having been tested to withstand and retain its form even when exposed to high temperatures generated by microwaves. Health Canada advises against the use of Styrofoam containers in microwave ovens as these are more prone to leach out plasticizers. We are also advised not to re-use the plastic trays used for convenience foods as I suppose repeated heating will cause a disintegration of the material and may result in greater contamination of food by plasticizers. In conclusion, as with all other things, it is indeed helpful and useful to know and to understand the principles behind what we do, so that we can make correct decisions. With respect to the story concerning the safety of NURSES EXAM The expectations of her had become “too high,” she told mediamen at a forum Monday. Although a graduate of the World Cit College, added pressure came from the fact that she had taken review classes at the Gapud center, she said. But typical of those who passed in areas where no cheating has been discovered is Gerard Gumban of Davao City. He did not hide his disappointment at the announced plan of the government by saying all licensed nurses should take another exam. “The issue of leakage has been there for a long time now,” he said, “Unluckily, it is our batch that has been dragged into this controversy.” He said all nurses as well as deans of nursing colleges should take the exam. When reports of the leak first came out, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo announced a “no-retake” policy. She then took a 180-degree turn when she announced that she would issue an EO ordering a retake. Then she appeared to change her mind again when she said that the administration would wait for the court to decide. Still pending before a local court is a bid to nullify the results of the June 2006 exam. Besides the examinees, the other group of people deeply affected by the controversy are the parents of the would-be nurses. One group of parents have formed the Alliance of Parents of Nursing Board Passers. The head of that organization, Dr. Raul Grageda, said their stand would be to oppose the planned EO. President Arroyo justified the need for a retake by saying the nursing profession had been stigmatized by the allegations of cheating. There is a growing global demand for Filipino nurses as they have proven themselves to be not only at par with the world’s best, but actually set the standards by which today’s Florence a Nightingales are judged. DRIVELINES DRIVING SCHOOL New Branch Opening Specials • Guaranteed Passing of Theory Exams and Full Preparation for the Government Road Driving Tests • Day-evening-weekend sessions at flexible hours • 12 hours for $ 265 (including tax) • 10% discount on collective registration (from 2 persons up) • 6 hours for $130 • Student discounts • Monitors certified by Quebec Safety League available to teach nervous drivers (Female coaches available upon request) S.A.A.Q examination services, car rental, pick n’ drop services Address: 5497 A Victoria, Suite 104, Montreal (Quebec) H3W 2R1 Tel: (514) 344-0085, (514) 816-6124 FAX: (514) 344-0053, Metro email: [email protected], web: www.drivelines.ca Cote-Ste-Catherine 514-788-1228 www.filipinostar.org October 2006 plastics in microwave ovens, knowing that very minute amounts of plasticizers leach out during microwave cooking assures us that we can use microwave-safe plastic ware worry-free. However, we also realize that it is wiser not to use plastic ware or any other house ware for things they were not intended for. Who knows? That margarine tub that you have used repeatedly to heat food in the microwave might have deteriorated so much it is in fact starting to leach plasticizers into your food. Be advised accordingly. a Ang Camping ng Laging Handa Scouts Group, 6-8 ng oktubre 2006 Ni Anna May Tappan Nagpunta ang grupo ng tagatuklas hindi na LAGING HANDA sa napakagandang lugar ng Tamaracouta. Ang lugar na ito ay nanggaling sa salitang Tamara na kumakatawan sa kasaganaan ng puno ng Tamarack at Couta na ibig sabihin 23 The North American Filipino Star October 2006 mo ito malalanghap sa kabihasnan. Pinagmasdan namin ang mga tanawing kay-ganda, mga iba'tibang kulay ng dahon, ang napakagandang lawa na nagbigay saya sa aming lahat. Damang-dama namin ang kaligayahang hindi Philippine delegation biggest ever as Doha gears up for Asia Games October 15, 2006 Despite a tight budget and modest goals, the Philippines is fielding its biggest Asian Games delegation ever in Doha (Qatar) this December and will see action in most sports disciplines in all its Asiad stints. lights to defend the 9-balls doubles gold Bustamante and Nikoy Lining won in Busan. Bowling great Paeng Nepomuceno will also miss his partner RJ Bautista in Qatar when the Filipinos try to retain the men’s doubles championship they H.E. Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al-Thani (2nd L), official 15th Asian Games Doha 2006 Torch Relay ambassador, passes a torch to Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo at the maipaliwanag sa mga mukha ng bawat Malacanang Palace in Manila October 18, 2006. The relay is the longest in the history of the isa lalo na sa mga kabataan, mga Games, travelling 50,000 km to 15 countries and regions in 55 days returning to Doha for the tagatuklas ng LAGING HANDA. Ang opening ceremony of the 15th Asian Games. Hiking in the forest, posing for photos, finding a nice spot, everyone posed for souvenir. ay katawan ng tubig. Sa madaling salita ang pook na ito ay puno ng Anna May and Zenaida Kharroubi found this wooden structure used like a chapel. kakahuyan at pinalilibutan ng tubig na siyang nagbibigay saya sa mga taong dumadayo sa lugar na ito. Masisislayan mo lamang ito kung ikaw ay kabilang sa grupo ng tagatuklas ng Canada o kabilang sa grupo ng LAGING HANDA. Nagsimula ang aming paglalakbay noong gabi ng ikaanim ng Oktubre . Noong umaga ng ika-pito ng Oktubre,aming nasilayan agos ng tubig sa tabi ng lawa ay amin ding nasilayan, ang mga punongkahoy na nagsilbing inspirasyon sapagkat ito ay ginawang napakagandang tahanan ng ating Poong Maykapal. Kung makakarating lamang kayo sa lugar na ito tiyak na kayo ay masisiyahan sapagkat inyong masisilayan ang kagandahang nilikha ng ating Poong Maykapal. Bilang kasapi ng tagatuklas na LAGING HANDA maraming mga bagay silang natutunan, ang pagmamalasakit sa nilikha ng Diyos, pakikipagtulungan ng bawat isa, pagmamahal sa Diyos at pagiging handa sa lahat ng ano mang oras. kaya kung gusto ninyong masilayan ang lugar ng Tamaracouta at maging kabilang ng Laging Handa at magkaroon ng bagong kaalaman, halina at sumali sa amin ito ay ginaganap sa Mckencie Park tuwing The Philippines will send 267 athletes in Qatar, slightly more than its previous all-time high of 259 in Bangkok in 1998. The Filipinos will also take part in 31 of the 40 events on tap, one more sport than the 2002 Busan edition. Philippine Olympic Committee president Peping Cojuangco was upbeat over the large contingent, saying the entire delegation—400 including coaches and officials—are on the right track. He, however, refused to make a forecast though the POC’s partner Philippine Sports Commission had earlier predicted the country to duplicate if not surpass the three gold medals, seven silvers and 16 bronzes it won four years ago. “Let us not get distracted over our Asian Games preparation,” said Cojuangco, whose daughter equestrian champ Mikee CojuangcoJaworski won one of the three golds in individual show jumping. Django Bustamante and Efren “Bata” Reyes won’t see action this time but RP billiards are counting on lesser From Page 20 FOSSIL card, with a security guard, who ultimately got it to Heaney. Heaney said he knew he'd been handed a significant find "within 15 minutes." The bones were, for starters, those of a mammal, and no mammal bones had ever been found on Cebu. Further investigation made it clear the bones were those of an adult water buffalo, but much smaller than any Mababait na bata natutong magluto ng almusal sa umaga - Mathew, Kurt, Kevin, Tommy, at Kristian. seen before. ang bukangliwayway. Sa aming Still, it took Heaney and his paglalakbay nalanghap namin ang sabado alas 3:00 ng hapon. Narito ang colleagues years to track down Armas, sarap ng sariwang hangin na siyang buong kasapi ng LAGING HANDA at double-check that the remains were in nagbigay lakas sa aming paglalakad, ang napakagandang tanawin ng fact unique and try -- unsuccessfully -ang hangin na ito ay kakaiba sapagkat Tamaracouta. to carbon date the fossils. www.filipinostar.org copped in Busan. Big delegations don’t usually have big yields, though, as proven in Bangkok where the country sent 259 athletes in 28 sports disciplines. Of the entire contingent, cue masters Gandy Valle and Snooky Villanueva were the only ones who brought home a gold. The Philippines’ strongest showing in the quadrennial event was in 1954 when it was held in the country. The Philippines won 14 golds, 14 silvers and 17 bronzes. In our home turf, we won four gold medals in swimming, four in shooting, five in boxing and one in basketball. The worst was in 1974 Tehran Games where the country went home with just two silvers—both from swimming great Ral Rosario—and 11 bronzes. There won’t be a basketball squad this year, once again prolonging the country’s quest of its first Asian Games gold since the 1952 Jakarta Asiad. In that edition, the country amassed seven golds, including one from boxer Manfredo Alipala who recently passed away. a Heaney believes the dwarf water buffalo is descended from an ancestor of the much larger Asian water buffalo still common today. He says it probably lived sometime during the last ice age, when sea levels were 400 feet lower and many of the islands that make up the Philippines were closer together or attached. The dwarf water buffalo is 20-25 percent smaller than the Tamaraw (Bubalus mindorensis), the endangered dwarf water buffalo that lives on Mindoro island, only a few hundred of which remain today. a 24 The North American Filipino Star www.filipinostar.org October 2006
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