friends InternatIonal MagazIne aPrIl 2009

Transcription

friends International Magazine APRIL 2009
1
editor’s note
Dear FIM Readers,
Published by
Smart Way International Ltd
5D Sun King Building
580 Queen’s Road West
Hong Kong
Tel: 2541 2510 / 9010 9183
Email: [email protected]
INTERNET
www.friends-intl-mag.com
PUBLISHER / EDITOR
Capt. Rosendo C. Herrera
MANAGING EDITOR
Arnold P. Grospe
ART DIRECTOR
Willy Castañar
COLUMNS
Bro. Eddie Villanueva
Bro. Rolly Estrella
Barrister Ody Lai
Noel Asinas
Cora Carsola
Dra. Gertrude P. Chan, FPDS
Ruel Y. Quezon
PHOTOGRAPHY
Bobby Campus
Jo Mabalot
Nery/Leo Jimena
Rodel Concha
Letty Romero
CONTRIBUTORS
Adelaida Mogol
Bernadette Benitez
April Joy
Remely Valdez
Violy Pascual
Noemi Paniza
Julia Buen Terry
Lucida Maingpis
My dela Roca
Riza Acosta
PRINTING
Smart Way International Ltd
No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole
or in part without the prior writtent consent of the
publisher. Opinions and comments of writers, columnists
and contributors do not necessarily reflect those of
the management’s or any staff of Friends International
Magazine.
We welcome editorial articles, photographs and illustrations
for publication. Please send all communications and
materials to: Friends International Magazine, 5D Sun King
Building, 580 Queen’s Road West, Hong Kong.
2
As all Christians across the world celebrate Easter together,
we wish everyone at home and abroad, that joy which our
Blessed Lord’s Resurrection brings. We ask God to bestow
upon all the joy and the power of the resurrection so that
the words of Jesus become real.
Some time during Easter celebration, you may be coloring
eggs and visiting relatives. Eggs then can become a
subtle way of sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ. Like seeds, eggs are very much a symbol of new life. Traditionally they were also a symbol of Easter joy because they were a forbidden item
during Lent. Nowadays, dyed to take to grandmother’s for an annual Easter egg hunt
they can bear all manner of joyful messages.
As a nation that highly values religious traditions, Holy Week in the Philippines
is celebrated in total solemnity. Both Christian and superstitious traditions mix in
remembering the passion and death of Jesus Christ. Many still practice not eating
pork/beef during the Lenten season, while others acquire some other forms of penance
or fasting.
I remember being told by my parents not to take a bath/shower on Good Friday, or to
be exuberant in this day of ‘mourning’. Growing up, my brothers and I would go out,
waiting for bloodletting to begin. Beginning at noon on Friday, we would see several
men naked from the waist up and walking barefoot as they scourge themselves with
ropes or bamboo sticks. It’s a form of atonement for their sins, we were told.
The pinnacle of this is hanging several men on crosses as a reenactment of Jesus’
crucifixion. All across town, there are dramatizations and reciting of the passion of
Christ. All across the nation, the lent is celebrated with fervor and solemnity.
A lot of things can change in a year. In this world of change, however, only one thing
remains constant and that is Jesus Christ’s love for me and for you. We will have a few
days of peace and quiet later this week. Please take time to be alone, pray, and hear
what the Lord’s plans are for you. Give thanks for all the good that you have in your
life. We all have a lot to be thankful for - sometimes, we just do not realize it.
In these Lenten season we must relearn the teachings and mystery of Christ, and may
we lessen the anger and jealousy in our hearts in observance of the Holy Week. Let
us in all humility but with profound awareness ponder deeply on the true meaning of
Holy Week, and relate it to the countless thorns of life and the heavy cross that man
bears on his shoulders. Let it remind us also, that we must as ever turn to prayer in our
collective efforts to strengthen the foundation of our friendship and cooperation. Prayer
and spiritual renewal is indispensable in maintaining and preserving the moral fabric of
our society.
We may have all the power and resolve, the material and the physical infrastructure of
progress, but in the face of crucial tests and circumstances, we need a guiding light to
help us see through life’s challenges. May we relearn the meaning of true justice, unity,
peace and love for all.
In this month’s issue, we covered the demonstrations of our fellow OFW’s in Hong
Kong for the discriminating article of one Hong Kong writer against the Filipino and
branded our country as a “Nation of Servants” which resulted to global reactions
of Filipinos around the world to call for the banning of the said writer to enter our
country and ask for public apology for insulting the Filipinos.
We also have in this issue the send off party organized by the Association of Filipino
Leaders and Friends International Magazine for the outgoing OWWA officer Ma.
Teresa Olgado and our very own and Tita of all OFW’s in Hong Kong Madame Cora
Carsola, OWWA Land Based Representative in Hong Kong who will be transferred to
London next month. Madamme Cora is one of our regular contributors of FIM and
has been part of the magazine for a long time. We wish you both good luck and hope
you continue to help the OFW’s wherever you go.
A most meaningful Holy Week observance to us all.
“May the Great Architect of the Universe bless all of us especially all the OFWs
around the world.” May we recover from the Global economic recession.
Happy reading !
Arnold P. Grospe
Managing Editor
3
friends Co mm uni t y B oa r d
Got an announcement to make ? Let everyone know. Have your upcoming association activities published here for FREE !
Call us on 254I –25I0 during office hours or email details to [email protected] or sms 9010 9183
To all Association Leaders in Hong Kong. You are all invited to join the newly formed Council of Filipino Leaders (CFL)
for more info pls call Gen Sec Medy Borlaza at 6773 1021.
provincial jail are asked to bring it to Purok Los Pigados or
call Genevieve at 94461193 or Rebecca at 94300684. The
collection of goods is until April 26.
Announcement
Open to all fellow OFW’s, The La union Federation of Hong
Kong (LUFOH), will organize a LIVELIHOOD TRAINING
PROGRAM for Hand Weaving, Soap Carving, Food Processing,
Baking, etc. Interested parties, please call:
Ms. Sylvia Minao - 61240865 / 25803741 (Treasurer);
Ms. Kathlyn Caccam – 66275012 (Secretary);
Ms. Tess Andrada – 91836216 (Asst. Secretary)
Nurses who are interested in taking the National Licensing
Examination in Hong Kong are urged to attend the
refresher courses by the FNA-HK. Getting the approval to
have the examination here will depend on the number of
examinees. For more information please call 95180835 for
registration.
Search for Mrs Asia OFW Hong Kong 2009 and Battle of
Ilocano Songs on May 10. 11am - 8pm. Open to All.
Contact Lety 6898 4014
What : Luzon Federation’s Flores de Mayo 2009
Where : Admiralty Garden
When : May 24 , 2009
For more info pls call pres. Medy Borlaza – 67731021
All associations from Luzon is invited to join the parade and
application for affiliation for Luzon Federations is available.
What : Fantay Fatima Metro Vigan Workers Association
HK Chapter 2nd Anniversary Celebration And Search For Ms
Fantay Fatima Metro Vigan 2009 and PFMV Populairty Queen
2009
Where : Bayanihan Kennedy Town Center
When : April 26 2009, 1-6 PM
For more info pls call pres Lourdes Razonable- 98528836
SALU-SALONG PINOY Cooking Contest
Island ECC is having a cooking contest that is open to all
Pinay on June 14, 2009 in celebration of the Philippines
Independence Day. The requirement is to cook an authentic
FILIPINO meal that is a specialty in your own province or a
meal from the island you were born from – Luzon, Visayas or
Mindanao. One big winner will be chosen from each island
who will receive HK$500.00 each. For more info, please call
Riza at 2864 9337. Deadline for registration is on June 5,
2009
The Island Evangelical Community Church is offering free
Cantonese class every Saturday (except the 3rd), at 10:00
a.m. to 11:30 a.m., at its church located at 8/F 633 King’s
Road Quarry Bay (MTR Quarry Bay Station Exit C). For more
information, contact 2864 9337, 2864 9360 and look for
Riza Guevarra.
All residents of Balawan are welcome to join the Balawanian
of La Union Association. For more info please call Mila
Agtarap at 6970751 or 95370801.
Calling the attention of the residents of Bangar La Union
Those who are willing to join the group may call Maritess at
9581880.
The SCOWA has launched its Provincial Jail Project
Those who are interested to donate clothes or canned
foods to be distributed to prisoners in South Cotabato
4
The Management and staff of Friends International Magazine wish to thank the following
volunteer contributors and distributors for sharing their talent and support to the Magazine.
Gina Montero
Gie Ignacio
Mayvie Acosta
Olive Lasat
Juvy Aldea
Fely Bunso S. Naoe
Mario de los Reyes
Distribution Team
IMAP-HK
LOFM
BOWA
CFCB
DOMOHK
Black Eagle
Calabarzon
Novo Ecijano Association
OFWIE
GOAL
LOFWA
MIGA
WOMED
FILCOMSIN
FILREFLEX
PMS
FNA
Mindanao Alliance
KUSOG
LEBAK
BENGFED
ANIBA-HK
Oriental Mindoro Society
Damayan
LUZFED
BSK-HK
MMWA
Contents
APRIL 2009 issue 41
3Editor’s Note
5
Filipinos March for Equality
6
Cover Story
8
2009 Hong Kong Flower Show
9Alcaleneans in Hong Kong
10At Your Service
11
HK Bids Cora Carsola & Essa OlgadokFarewell
12
Hirap at Ligaya sa Pagtatapos ng Anak
13
Mga Kuwentong OFW
14Oras ng Himala
15Legal Matters
16
Domestic Workers Want Protection from Gov’t
17
Kaagapay Sa Tagumpay
18
Snapshots
20
Mabuhay Ka Kabayan
21ANIBA - HK Anniversary / Saikung Bratz
22Lessons on Heroism
23On Improving the Helping Hand
24
Balitang Showbiz
27
Sports News
28Notes from POLO Vancouver
29
featured Poems
30Laugh Lines
31
FIM Outlets / Batangas Varsitarian Induction
32
My Education ... My Contribution to the Future
33
Horoscope and Mind Games
Birthday Corner / Just 4 Kids / Text From The Heart
34
Filipinos Enraged by Local Columnist’s
Remark, March For Equality
by APG
More than 2,000 Filipino demonstrators
marched in Central last April 5 to
protest against columnist Chip Tsao who
described the Philippines as “a nation of
servants,” and for a ruling unfavorable to
migrant workers which they say smack as
racial discrimination.
During Palm Sunday celebration,
the protesters, from more than 130
organizations, carried banners and palm
leaves. Chanting “No to racism. No to
Discrimination” and carrying banners
with slogans such as “We are workers,
not slaves”, “Don’t insult our intelligence,
racism is not easily misunderstood” and
“We are not stupid, we know how to
discern political satire from racial slurs.”
the demonstrators marched through the
city to the Central Government office to
challenge the recent article by writer Chip
Tsao in HK Magazine.
The rally headed by United Filipinos
in Hong Kong chairwoman Dolores
Balladares and Secretary General Eman
Villanueva were supported by the different
OFW association leaders in Hong
Kong from Luzon Federation,Visayas
and Mindanao Alliance, Jesus is Lord
Movement. Oriental Mindoro Society,
Association of Filipino Builders in Hong
Kong and others. Officers from the
Although Tsao has apologized in print,
radio and television, organizers of the
rally were unconvinced of his sincerity.
Philippine Labor office and groups of
professionals such as engineers, architect,
lawyers, Filipino media group, business
groups, and different religious group were
also present during the demonstration.
around 2:30 in the afternoon. As Filipino
migrant workers, we do not tolerate any
racism or discrimination attacking the
Filipinos said one of the leaders.
Villanueva said the rally was also in protest
at other discrimination in Hong Kong,
such as the possible exclusion of migrant
workers from an upcoming minimum
wage law in the city and the statement
in the newspaper that “falsely claimed
[Filipinos were] carriers of the infectious
disease known as the superbug.
Different messages were expressed and
raised during a small program at the
Chater Road before the rally started at
“As a nation of servants, you don’t flex
your muscles at your master, from whom
you earn most of your bread and butter,”
he wrote.
The Chip Tsao controversy resulted in a
blacklisting of the controversial writer
because of his article that had many
Filipinos protest against what many feel
was discrimination against Filipinos. friends International Magazine APRIL 2009
The rally was ended peacefully at around
4:00 in the afternoon after
formal
complaints were handed to the police
officer and the group was orderly dispersed
in front of the Central Government
Office.
5
Easter and Holy Week Celebrations in the Philippines
by Arnold P. Grospe
Easter (Greek: (Ethiopic), Pascha) is an
important annual religious feast in the Christian
liturgical year. According to scripture, Jesus
was resurrected from the dead three days after
his crucifixion. Many Christian denominations
celebrate this resurrection on Easter Day or
Easter Sunday (also Resurrection Day or
Resurrection Sunday), two days after Good
Friday. The chronology of his death and
resurrection is variously interpreted to be
between A.D. 26 and 36.
Easter also refers to the season of the church
year called Eastertide or the Easter Season.
Traditionally the Easter Season lasted for the
forty days from Easter Day until Ascension
Day but now officially lasts for the fifty days
until Pentecost. The first week of the Easter
Season is known as Easter Week or the Octave
of Easter. Easter also marks the end of Lent, a
season of prayer and penance.
Easter is a moveable feast, meaning it is not
fixed in relation to the civil calendar. Easter
falls at some point between late March and late
April each year (early April to early May in
Eastern Christianity), following the cycle of the
Moon. After several centuries of disagreement,
all churches accepted the computation of the
Alexandrian Church (now the Coptic Church)
that Easter is the first Sunday after the Paschal
Full Moon, which is the first moon whose 14th
day (the ecclesiastic “full moon”) is on or after
March 21 (the ecclesiastic “vernal equinox”).
Easter is linked to the Jewish Passover not
only for much of its symbolism but also for
its position in the calendar. It is also linked
to Spring Break, a secular school holiday
(customarily a week long) celebrated at various
times across North America, and characterized
by road trips and bacchanalia.
Cultural elements, such as the Easter Bunny,
have become part of the holiday’s modern
celebrations, and those aspects are often
celebrated by many Christians and nonChristians alike. There are also some Christian
denominations who do not celebrate Easter.
As a nation that highly values religious
traditions, Holy Week in the Philippines is
celebrated in total solemnity.
In Quiapo Manila, there is the procession of the
Black Nazarene, a century-old black statue of
Jesus that devotees consider to be miraculous.
In Manila there is the Visita Iglesias, or the
practice of visiting 14 churches and reciting
the 14 stations of the cross.
In Marinduque, there is the Moriones Festivals,
where people dress up like Roman soldiers
to remember the beheading of Longinos. In
Sipalay, Negros Occidental, quack doctors go
to unexplored caves on Good Friday in search
6
MORIONES FESTIVALS
Marinduque Island is famous and known
throughout the world. No one could recall its
beginning but old folks claimed it started since
time immemorial. Usually it is held in the
plazas of Boac and Gasan. The towns present
a spectacular pageant wherein people are
dressed like Roman soldiers to commemorate
the beheading of Longinos. The festivities
have a Mardigras atmosphere.
BAGUIO CITY
Thousands of lowlanders, Manilans and
foreign tourists flock to this summer capital to
escape heat. Hotels and lodging houses are all
booked a month before the Holy Week. Others
trek to the mountain to view the city of pines
and people enjoying the merry making not
minding the religious people are in church for
this Holy occasion.
of amulets for healing and power.
wonderment for any tourist.
The most famous of all lenten celebration is the
“PAGTALTAL SA JORDAN” in Guimaras
Island. Attended by tourists from all over the
world, it’s a reenactment of Jesus’ sufferings
on his way to calvary.
FLAGELLANTS
They scourge themselves in a somewhat
paganistic manner considered medieval by
many. This is done by stripping themselves
naked from the waist up, walking barefooted
under a midday sun and flagging themselves
bloody with ropes and broken pieces of glass
attached with strings to bamboo sticks. They
do this as a means of atonement of their sins.
It is a sort of retribution of their offenses
and human weaknesses for past favor such
as after going through some crisis or danger
in their lives. This is commonly practiced in
the provinces of Pampanga, Tarlac, Rizal and
practically all over the Tagalog region.
Holy Week culminates with all the solemn
observance of Christian and pagan rituals.
The practice is nationwide and has varying
undertones of religious significance that is both
moving and touching in its entirety. There are
countless “Cenaculos” and “Pabasas” reciting
and reenacting the passion and death of Jesus
Christ in traditionally written verse form and
dramatized version of the original sacrifice
two thousand years ago.
The Holy Week in the Philippines has
various appeals for everyone that combine
native traditions and modern day touches
with numerous innovations according to
temperament and locale.
The week from Monday to Good Friday is an
emotion packed series of religious ceremonies
reminiscent of Christendom’s most cherished
traditions. Easter Sunday pall builds up into
a glorious pealing of church bells for the predawn “pasalubong”, a reenactment of the
Risen Christ’s meeting with His Mother at the
church patio under a specially prepared arch.
An angel then descends from the platform and
lifts the mourning veil of the grieving Mother
amidst the pealing of bells. The procession of
the two images then ends up inside the church
and masses are said.
Lenten celebration in the Philippines is a
conglomeration of quaint Christian and
paganistic practices that are found nowhere
else in the world. Some are breathtaking
and exciting as they are charming and so
distinctively Filipino that they are a source of
SIETE PALABRAS
All radio stations throughout the nation are
being sponsored by religious groups to air the
reading of the “Siete Palabras” (Seven Last
Words). There are series of speakers depicting
the life of Jesus Christ and of course in different
versions but the same meaning. Aglipayans,
Episcopalians and Roman Catholics do this
simultaneously.
VISITA IGLESIAS
In Manila it is a practice of Catholic believers
to visit, if possible, 14 churches within Metro
Manila representing the fourteen stations of
the cross.
BALA-AN BUKID
Guimaras landmark,
a huge white cross
overlooking the City
of Iloilo, a favorite
pilgrimage venue of
Visayan people.
HUGE 14th
STATION
In Iguig, Tuguegarao
oversized
station
of the cross at the
hillside outside the centuries old church with
a beautiful facade.
DAVAO CITY
Old folks still practice the traditional belief of
not to create unnecessary sounds especially on
Holy Thursday and Good Friday.
BICOL REGION
Bicolanos are too religious from Catanduanes,
Sorsogon, Legaspi, Naga down to Camarines
Norte and Sur, they have all the Holy Week
rituals.
SAN PABLO CITY
Celebrities and movie stars from Manila and
neighboring provinces join the most attended
procession organized by Don Ado Escudero
of Villa Escudero.
14 STATIONS OF THE CROSS
At the grotto of Lourdes in Novaliches,
Quezon City the devotees, thousands of them,
come during the Holy Week as a pilgrimage at
the Calvary built with the fourteen stations of
the Cross, life size, zigzagging at the hillside.
AMULETS HUNTERS
In Sipalay, Negros Occidental, it is a day for
Herbolarios searching for anting-anting in
unexplored caves on Good Friday.
FORTY FIVE STATUES
In Paete, Laguna procession of 45 statues
beautifully decorated “carrozas” depicting the
life of our Lord. Also in Siquijor, an island on
the southern tip of Cebu, is well known for its
Good Friday procession. Huge centuries-old
statue fully decorated with fresh flowers.
CAPILYA
A town in Zamboanga still practices the old
tradition of Lenten Season, one of which is the
Capilya. Town people put up an improvised
14 altars around the poblacion representing
the way of the cross. A group of singers sing
ballad songs of Christ’s passion.
CENACULOS
It is held in the Philippine Cultural Center
sponsored by the Department of Tourism.
Cast of characters include popular movie stars.
In Taguig, Rizal they popularize the modern
version of “Jesus Christ Superstar” reshown
at the Fort Santiago Amphitheater for the
benefit of Manilans. In Mexico, Pampanga
and also Dinalupihan in Bataan there is one
who actually had himself nailed to a cross for
his “crucifixion” simulating Christ’s passion
as best as he painfully can.
PABASA
It’s a family affair with the cooperation of
relatives and neighbors. Others do these twenty
four hours daily within the seven days of
singing and reading of the Passion and Death
taken from the verses of the Bible. Foods and
drinks are being served to the singers.
BLACK NAZARENE
A century-old black statue in Quiapo,
sculptured in Mexico during the Galleon Trade
era, considered miraculous by devotees is
brought out for procession every Good Friday.
The statue is borne on the shoulders of male
devotees in a slow, difficult procession around
the narrow streets of the district, a score of
men struggle to keep the image moving on.
Thousands more try to muscle their way to
touch the Nazarene as if carried by a powerful
tide in an ocean of humanity.
SALUBONG
In Palawan it is reenacted in Iwahig Penal
Colony participated by thousands of torchbearing convicts in uniform line up in a predawn ceremony.
7
2009 HONG KONG FLOWER SHOW
Alcaleneans in Hong Kong Visited by Town
Officials from the Philippines
by Julia Buen Terry
Philippine Cultural Academy (PCA) in cooperation with the Philippine Cultural Dance Ensemble (PCADE) Chapters
and Kababaihang Rizalista Hong Kong Chapter (KRHKC)
The Hong Kong flower show is a major event
organized by The Leisure and Cultural Services
Department to promote horticulture and
awareness of greening. Every year, it provides
a good opportunity for hundreds of thousands
of local citizens and horticulture lovers all over
the world to appreciate the beauty of flowers
and share their experiences in the cultivation
of flowers. The last show attracted over
520,000 visitors and 185 organizations from
20 countries.
(Chairman) and Mr. Nicki Flores as the
appointed President in 2009. PCA is a private
and a non-profitable organization organizing
cultural presentations from different ethnic
minority of the Philippines. The main stage
presentation was held on Mar. 15, 2009
from 1:30 to 2:30 pm in cooperation with
the following PCADE Chapters; Tinikling,
Mountain Province, Ifugao, Bohol HK
Association, SCOWA “B’laan-T’boli ”,
Abra Association and other groups namely;
Bayanihan Theater Arts Club, Kalingga
Gangsa of HK Association, NOPTI, Leyte
Achievers Club Intl.. The event was graced
by Deputy Consul General Madame Kira
Danganan-Azucena of
the Philippine
Consulate HK SAR.
Its aim’s basically is to promote the culture of
the Philippines through arts, dance and music.
Its main objective is “To uplift the image of
the Filipino people in Hong Kong community
at large.” PCA has been participating in the
Annual Hong Kong flower show since 2003.
Hong Kong flower show was held on 13 to
22 March 2009 at Victoria Park Causeway
Bay. Featuring “Cosmos” as its theme flower,
the event showcased this exquisite plant and
a rich profusion of exquisite potted plants,
beautiful flower arrangements and gorgeous
landscape displays by organizations from
local, the Mainland and overseas. There are
also commercial store selling flowers and other
horticultural products.
During the show period, a rich diversity
of educational and recreational fringe
activities were organized for the enjoyment
of visitors of all ages. They include student
drawing competition, photo competition,
exhibit competition, music and Cultural
performances, floral art demonstrations, plant
maintenance workshops, green stalls, guided
visits, recreation programmes and fun games.
In the show the Philippine Cultural Academy
(PCA) represented some cultural presentations
that was headed by Mr. Pieter Nootenboom
8
in the province of Ifugao. The booth won an
award for “Unique Landscape Feature”. KR
is a group of men, which is a civic, cultural,
patriotic, non-religious, non -partisan and a
non-profitable organization. Its main objective
is to promote the teachings of the Philippines
National hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal. Kababaihang
Rizalista HK Chapter (KRHKC) a charter
organization of KR gave their support to
the booth. The cultural presentations on
Mar.15 and 22 were handled by the PCADE
Chapters in cooperation with the other groups
mentioned above in addition of the Combat
Arnis HK Phil. Martial Arts Assn. on the 22nd.
The booth was in commemoration of the life
and works of Dr. Jose P. Rizal and featuring
different artistic elements from Philippines.
We would like to acknowledge the participations
of all the people, who in one joined in hand
in unity for the purpose of promoting the
Philippine culture and its people especially Mr.
Fred Vinca and Ms. Alice R. Dela Torre who
patiently watched and guarded the booth for
almost the duration of the ten days show.
This coming May, the organization will
hold a Search for Mother of the Year 2009
Award that would enable Alcaleneans to
raise funds for their projects.
Filipinos abroad misses the life back home.
The former British Colony is homed to
more than a hundred thousand Filipinos
and is only one hour- forty five minutes by
air. However, the place is no exception for
Pinoys to feel homesick. There is no place
like home they say.
programs for this year.” According to
Alcaleneans President Remedios Fajardo.
The new set of officers of the Alcaleneans
Organization in Hong Kong for 2008- 2009
are; President: Remedios Fajardo, VicePresident: Gloria Dariapieza, Secretary:
Perla de Leon, Asst. Secretary: Merlyn
Nelmida, Treasurer: Leonila Cabonsi,
Asst. Treasurer: Janet Cerezo, Auditor:
Juliet Fernandez, Asst. Auditor: Marlyn
Mislang, Business Manager: Daria de
los Santos, Asst. Bus. Mngr.: Maricel
Nelmida, P. R. Os: Cecille Costales
and Zeny Llban, Muse: Julie Nelmida:
Adviser: Lita Macaraeg.
This is true to the town folks of Alcala,
Pangasinan in Hong Kong who binds
themselves in an organization that would
help them for the common good of each
town mate.
In 01 March 2009, the Alcaleneans in
Hong Kong was overwhelmed by the
presence of their Municipal Officials
headed by their Municipal Mayor Manuel
Collado. The entourage numbering to
sixty five consists of Municipal Officials,
Barangay Captains and School Principals
of Alcala who took time in visiting their
kababayans in Hong Kong as part of their
educational trip.
“I am happy to see each and every one of
you here today. I hope you will continue
to be united, and cooperative with one
another. It would be nice too hear that
in Alcala.” Said Alcala Mayor Manuel
Collado.
In the same show the Knights of Rizal (KR)
represented a booth under the Philippine
banner, which unanimously sponsored and
designed by its member in conjunction with
the National Chapter from the Philippines that
was authorized by the supreme commander
[KCGR Virgilio Esguerra]. The booth was
inspired by one of the tourist attractions in
the Cordillera Region Philippines, which is
the world famous “Banaue Rice Terraces”
The Alcaleneans Organization in Hong
Kong was founded in December 2007. Its
main goal is to help its members as well
as their beloved town. The group, who’s
only a year- older, is planning to donate
projects to their municipality at the
soonest possible time.
“We will carry out the proposals on our
forthcoming meeting together with the
organization’s planned activities and
9
At
Your Service
By: Rolando E. Estrella
MAGTANONG PO KAYO
The author has been in the public service of the Filipino Overseas Workers in Hong Kong for the past 20 years. He gives free advice and
counsel, as well as practical solutions on employment-related problems, family matters, etc. Mr. Estrella or Brother Rolly, as most people
call him, is currently the Vice President of INSURANCE OF THE PHILIPPINE ISLANDS CO., INC. For free counseling, please
send your letters/inquiries to: AT YOUR SERVICE COLUMN, c/o Friends International Magazine, 5D Sun King Building,
580 Queen’s Road West, Hong Kong. (Attention to Bro. Rolly)
A COSTLY MISTAKE
Dear Ms. Butter Finger,
I have been working for a British-Chinese
couple since August, 2008. They are both antique
collectors and so I was given instruction to handle
every piece of antique items in their flat with extra
care. They’ve got a huge 3,000 square-feet flat and
while they are childless, still I am exhausted every
day because it is tiring to manage such a big flat
plus the fact that I have to handle the antique items
with utmost care when dusting them for fear I might
break them.
The Employment Ordinance clearly states
that the employer can make deductions from
the helper’s salary to pay for damage caused
by her to the employer’s properties due to her
negligence or default (mistake).
During the first week of September, 2008 out of
over exhaustion, I accidentally elbowed a porcelain
vase while dusting an antique Buddha figurine
beside it. The vase was totally broken when it fell
into the concrete floor.
When my lady employer came home that
evening, I told her honestly what happened and
when she saw the broken vase she got really angry
and called me stupid and useless. I learned that the
antique vase is worth HK$50,000.00 and that it is
irreplaceable because there are only a few pieces of it
in the world.
Quite clearly your employer is in gross
violation of the law. Even if she agreed to
reduce the deduction from HK$1,000 to
HK$500 such deduction is still a violation.
Please advise me on what steps I should take to
protect my rights without Being dismissed from my
job.
Bing DG, Sau Ma Ping
It is a good thing that your salaries for
three months were paid through checks as
appearing in your bank statement which you
can use as proof when you report such illegal
deduction at the Labour Department.
Dear Ms. Bing,
She said out of her good heart she will not ask
me to pay the broken antique in one lump sum as
in the first place I do not have such huge amount
of money; but that she will deduct HK$1,000 from
my paycheck every month until the full HK$50,00
is paid from my salary.
As I was scared to lose my job which she
cautioned me could happen if I do not agree to her
payment terms, I have no choice than to agree to
such monthly deduction of HK$1,000.
And so when I received my paychecks at monthend of October, November and December 2008
each check amounted only to HK$2,580 instead of
HK$3,580. I deposited those checks into my bank
account and my monthly statement clearly reflected
the reduced amount of my salary. However
beginning January, 2009 they started to pay me in
cash but I was asked to sign a receipt stating that I
received the full amount of HK$3,580 when in fact
it is was only HK$2,580.
However the law also clearly states that
the maximum deduction an employer may
make against the helper’s salary is limited to
HK$300 only per item of damaged property.
I suspect that the reason why they started
to pay you in cash for your January 2009
salary is that they might have realized that
check payments could be used against them
later on.
I would advise that you report the
matter at the Labour Relations Division of
the Labour Department as early as possible
bringing with you the solid evidence of your
employer’s illegal salary deduction.
I am very sure that the Labour Department
will protect abused helpers like you which
they have been doing consistently now and
in the past. You may also obtain approval to
transfer to another employer if your present
take revenge on you and terminate your
contract pre-maturely.
TARDY EMPLOYER
I finished three contracts with my previous
employer and was forced to transfer to a new one
when they emigrated to Canada six months ago in
July, 2008.
Does my employer have the right to make a
deduction because of an accident which I have no
control of. If she has that right, do you think I could
negotiate to reduce the deduction from HK$1,000
down to HK$500 only so my son could go back to
school? I will appreciate your counsel.
My monthly salary with my current employer is
HK$3,580. I started working for them on the first
of September, 2008 and the Agency told me that
my salary is due every end of the month beginning
September 30, 2008 and my employer is fully aware
of it.
10
Such delay has caused a lot of problems in my
monthly remittance to my family in the Philippines
because my husband could not pay our bills and the
school fees on time and our electricity supply was
almost cut off twice already.
The employer is mandated by law to pay
the helper’s salary within seven days from
due date. If your salary due date is at the end
of every month, the latest date your employer
should pay your salary is on the 7th day of
the succeeding month.
If your employer for whatever reason
fails to pay your salary within the said
seven days from due date, she is required
by law to pay interest on the outstanding
salary. If it is proven that such violation
is being committed, your employer is liable
to prosecution and could be fined or be
imprisoned when convicted.
Program organized by Association of Filipino Leaders - HK and Luzon Federation
by Julia Buen Terry
If there is one OFW who deserves to be
given an award, a tribute, and worthy to be
remembered by the OFWs in Hong Kong, it
would be unanimously Corazon Carsola.
She did a par extra ordinaire way of helping
the OFWs not just because she is the OWWA
Land Based Representative but she has a heart
who cares for her fellows.
AFL Vice Chairman Raffy Esteleydes with Chairman Arnold Grospe and Secretary Medy Borlaza present
Plaques of Appreciation (sponsored by FIM & BPI-HK) to both Madames Cora Carsola & Essa Olgado
the program.
“Isa po akong saksi kung paano siya tumulong
In 29 March 2009, the Auditorium of
Bayanihan Trust in Kennedy Town was jam
packed with Consulate Top Officials, Filipino
Leaders, OFWs, and prominent figures in
the Filipino community in Hong Kong to
say goodbye to Cora Carsola and OWWA
Officer Theresa “Essa” Olgado in a farewell
party tendered by the Association of Filipino
Leaders and Luzon Federation.
Consulate Officials, Filipino Leaders as well
as friends of Carsola praised her on her tireless
effort in helping the OFWs in the territory.
Songs and dances from different Filipino
groups were performed during the program
which started from 4:00 pm until 9:00 in the
evening.
Since such violation is regularly
committed for the past many months, I am
of the opinion that the helper may consider
herself terminated by her employer without
notice. If so, your employer will be required
to pay your salary in lieu of the 30-days
Notice plus some other statutory benefits.
However to my dismay, my employer paid my
I would counsel that you report
your employer’s violation at the Labour
Department bringing a copy of your above
letter to them.
If your present employer dismisses
you because you reported this case to the
authorities, your chance to secure a special
consideration to transfer to another employer
is certain after examining your case.
Let me repeat, erring employers cannot
outsmart the very strict, intelligent and
straightforward labor officers.
na doon sa London ay may nangangailangan
din ng tulong.
“Kung mawala man ako dito, I am very sure
as well na andiyan naman kayo mga kapwa
leaders na magpapatuloy sa aking iniwang
trabaho, alam ko ‘yon. So, if you are bless with
time, do it, go out and help.”
“For sure I will miss you all. The memories, the
moments we shared together are deeply written
in my heart. You will have a special place in
my heart, but please pray for me……”
sa mga OFWs dito sa Hong Kong. Lalo na
sa kababayan ko na si Glenda na talagang
tinulungan niya hanggang manalo ito sa kaso
niya.” Said Maritess Nuval from La Union.
“Im sure maraming malulungkot sa pag- alis
ni Tita Cora at mami- miss siya ng mga OFWs
dito lalo na ng mga natulungan niya.” Nuval
added.
“Sa mga kapwa ko leaders, I hope gawin
nyo po ang nararapat, magmahalan. Kagaya
ng sinabi ni Labatt kanina, forgive, because
forgiveness is the only way to a peaceful heart.
Babaunin ko ‘yon, a peaceful heart.”
Bro. Rolly
The HK$1,000 deduction from my salary has
greatly affected my financial support to my poor
family in the Philippines. I have three children
going to college and one has stopped because of such
deduction.
Ms. Butter Finger, Fanling
first salary on October 16, 2008 or sixteen days after
the due date of September 30. I thought it will only
happen once, but to my anger my salaries for the
subsequent months until January 2009 were paid to
me fifteen days after the due date.
Hong Kong Filipino Community Says Farewell to
Cora Carsola and Essa Olgado
“I will miss Tita Cora. She is an inspiration
for me being an OFW. Nakasama ko siya sa
komunidad, sa pagbibisita sa mga hospitals, sa
lahat ng mga charities at sa pagtulong sa mga
kababayan natin dito.” Nakita kung ibinuhos
niya ang mahalagang oras niya, day and night
for the welfare ng mga naterminates, sa mga
pasyente at sa mga nabibilanggo.” According
to Luzon Federation President Remedios
Borlaza.
Words of testimonies on how Carsola had
served the Filipino Community flooded during
The teary eyed Carsola said in her speech;
“Iniukol ko ang panahon ko para sa mga kapwa
nating mga OFWs lalo na sa mga naaapi.
Nakalimutan ko na ang aking lovelife……
Sabi ko, hindi na ako mag-aasawa kasi married
naman ako sa Filipino Community. And it’s
true. Parang vitamin ko po ang pagtulong sa
ibang tao. Hinahanap- hanap ko iyon and I am
very sure, I will miss this life. But alam ko rin po
“I will always remember this day in my life.
Let’s see each other in our prayer. After all,
ang ating pagparito is to work for our fellow,
to work for our country, and to work for our
family. Let love prevail in our hearts. I love you
all, Tita Cora.”
Carsola was appointed OWWA Land Based
Representative in 2002 and was active in
helping distressed OFWs in Hong Kong. She
will be off to London on 19 May 2009 to
continue her employment with her current
employer who was assigned to UK.
Bro. Rolly
11
Ang Hirap at Ligaya sa Pagtatapos ng Anak
ni Julia Buen Terry
Ang edukasyon at karunungan ay kayamanang
hindi mananakaw, maisasanla, maipagbibili o
maipagpapalit. Isang katangi- tanging pamana
ng magulang sa anak nito.
anak at nasa third year Nursing naman ang
bunso. Pero nalubos ang katuwaan niya dahil
nakatapos ang pangalawang anak na noo’y
nagkaproblema siya.
Ito’y isang mahalagang responsibilidad ng mga
magulang para sa mga anak nila. Wala mang
kayamanan na maibibigay na pamana dito
basta ang mahalaga ay mapagtapos ito sa pagaaral. Dahil para sa kanila ay sandata ito na
magagamit ng anak sa pagharap nito sa daloy ng
agos ng buhay. Kinakailangan ang edukasyon
at karunungan para makapagtrabaho ng
maayos at minsan upang makapagtrabaho sa
ibang bansa para sa ikakaunlad ng buhay.
“Umuungot na namang mag- aral ng
abogasiya ang isang anak ko. Hindi ko naman
puwedeng mapaghindian iyon bilang isang
ina.” Pagtatapos ni Aling Nona.
_ _ _ _ _
Hangad ng maraming Pilipino na mabigyan
ng magandang buhay at kinabukasan ang
kanilang pamilya. Kaya maraming OFWs
ang napilitang iwanan ang mga mahal nito
sa buhay at nakipagsapalaran sa ibang bansa.
Tinitiis nila ang pangungulila, pagod, hirap
at pasakit sa trabaho maigapang lamang at
matustusan ang pagaaral ng mga anak.
Maglalabing- pitong
taon na sa Hong
Kong si Aling Nona
Reyes na may limang
anak sa Pilipinas.
Grade three pa lang
noon ang panganay
at tatlong taon ang
bunso nang iwanan
niya ang mga ito sa
Bohol. Sa ngayon ay
apat na sa mga anak
ang nakatapos sa pagaaral at nagtatrabaho
na ang panganay na pulis at ang pangatlo na
titser.
“Katatapos lamang ng dalawang anak ko sa
commerce at education pero hindi ako nakauwi
dahil walang pera. Kahit mula pa noon ay
hindi ako nakakauwi tuwing gradwasyon nila
at kasal ng panganay ko noong nakaraang
taon.” Ayon kay Aling Nona.
Simula nang magtrabaho sa Hong Kong ay
walang mobile phone si Aling Nona bilang
bahagi ng kanyang pagtitipid. Tuwing holiday
ay tumitigil siya sa boarding house para
makatipid sa pamasahe at pagkain. Malaki
ang pasasalamat niya kapag may kaibigan na
magpapahilot sa kanya.
“Inuuna ko ang pangangailangan ng mga anak
ko. Mahalaga na mapakain at mapa- aral ko
sila ng maayos.” Sabi ni Aling Nona. “Malaki
ang pasasalamat ko sa aking asawa at lumaking
mababait at may takot sa Paginoon ang aming
anak.” Kuwento pa niya.
Maligaya siya at nakatapos ang apat niyang
12
Sa sunod-sunod na hindi magagandang balita
patungkol sa mga domestic helper, nagkakalapit
naman ang kalooban ni Isabel,isang OFW, at
ang kanyang amo.
Dobleng kaligayahan naman ang naramdaman
ni Vicky Noriesta dahil kapwa magtatapos
sa pagaaral ang kanyang dalawang anak.
Sa darating na Mayo ay ga-gradweyt ang
ikalawang anak na babae sa Nursing habang
ang panganay naman na lalaki ay sa Oktubre
sa kursong Pharmacy sa National University.
Dating titser naman si Susan sa Cotabato
pero nang dahil sa kakulangan ng sahod ay
nagdesisyon siya na magtrabaho sa Hong
Kong sa hangaring mapagtapos sa kolehiyo
ang apat niyang anak. Ayon sa kanya ay parang
nabunutan siya ng tinik sa pagtatapos ng
panganay niyang anak sa Nursing na iniwanan
niyang nasa grade four pa lang noon.
“Dobleng hirap ang dinanas ko maigapang
ko lang sa pagaaral sa mga anak ko. Halos
gagawin kong araw ang gabi. Hindi na ako
lumalabas kapag holiday dahil kahit pamasahe
ay tinitipid ko.” Sabi niya.
Nag-graduate noong ika-17 ng Marso ang anak
ni Susan sa University of Southern Mindanao.
Sa kasalukuyan ay nasa pre- review class
ito para sa board exam sa Nobyembre. Ang
pangalawang anak niya ay nasa 3rd year B. S. in
Nutrition and Dietetics at ang pangatlo ay first
year Nautical Engineering habang ang bunso
ay nag- gradweyt naman sa high school.
“I will be moving to Canada for the sake of
their future. Kung nandoon na ako ay may
chances at opportunities na makapagtrabaho
ang mga anak ko doon.” Ani Susan. “Sa
Pilipinas kasi kahit nakapagtapos ka mahirap
pa rin makahanap ng trabaho. Dito naman
hanggang domestic helper lang tayo.” Dagdag
pa niya.
Pagkatapos ng halos sampung taon sa Hong
Kong ay tutungo na si Susan sa Canada
ngayong buwan. Doon ay patuloy niyang
tutuparin ang mga pangarap para sa kanyang
mga anak.
ni Violy C. Pascual
Positive Effect
Vicky (fourth from left) with family.
Susan with daughter Melody during the
graduation rites
Mga Kwentong OFW
Isinumpa na noon 2001 ni Vicky na hindi
na magtatrabaho muli sa Hong Kong dahil
sa pangit na karanasan niya sa dating amo.
Pero nang mag- kolehiyo na ang mga anak ay
nakipagsapalaran siya muli na bumalik dito
noong 2005 sa tulong ng mga pamangkin ng
asawa niya.
Iba naman si Vicky, kahit tapos na sa pagaaral ang panganay na anak ay tuloy pa rin ang
hirap niya. Kaya ibayong pagtitipid pa rin ang
gagawin niya sa kanyang mga gastusin dito sa
Hong Kong. Kung minsan ay sa Kapilya na
lamang siya sa Tai Po nagpapalipas ng holiday
para hindi na gumastos ng pamasahe papunta
sa Central.
“Siyempre kailangan namang paghandaan ang
board exam nilang dalawa, gastos pa rin iyon.
Mahirap maging katulong kaya kung hindi
lang sa mga anak ko ay hindi ako magtitiis
dito.” Sabi ni Vicky na ang bunsong anak ay
kakatapos lamang sa elementarya.
Bawat OFW ay may kani- kaniyang kuwento
ng pagtitiis sa buhay kung paano nila
naipupursige ang pagaaral ng kanilang mga
anak. Sulit ang paghihirap nila kapag maayos
na grumadweyt ang mga ito at nakakalungkot
naman kapag hindi napahalagahan ng mga
anak ang hirap ng mga magulang nila.
Kapag may tiyaga, may nilaga daw. Pero ayon
kay Aling Nona kinakailangan na ipa- intindi
sa mga anak ang kahalagahan ng edukasyon.
Ipamulat sa kanila ang takot sa Panginoon,
magkaroon ng respeto, at tiwala sa bawat isa.
At higit sa lahat ay ipadama sa mga anak ang
isang pamilya na may pagmamahal at paguunawaan sa bawat isa.
Walong buwan pa lamang siya na naninibilhan
sa mag-asawang German at isang sanggol
kung kaya’t hindi pa lubos ang tiwala sa
bawat isa. Walang trabaho ang babae, siya
lahat ang in-charge sa bata,alalay lamang si
Isabel at trabahong bahay ang kanyang toka.
Magkatabi man ang kwarto ng baby at ni
Isabel, mahigpit ang bilin na huwag niyang
papasokin ang bata kahit umiyak ito, nang sa
ganun ay matututo silang magising sa dis-oras
ng gabi.
Unang napabalita, isang katulong na
pinagbintangan nilagyan ng clorux ang gatas
ng alaga matapos siyang mabigyan ng “ one
month notice of termination “ Matapos mabasa
ng amo, ipinakita kay Isabel at nagkapalitan sila
ng kuro-kuro. Halata ni Isabel ang mensahe ng
amo kaya sinabi niyang pwede siyang magalit
sa kanya pero hinding hindi siya gaganti sa
inosenteng baby. Pahabol ng amo na dapat ay
pinaalis na daw agad at binayaran ang helper
at hindi na naghintay ng isang buwan. Tuwing
makakabasa ng balitang katulong, ibinabahagi
ng amo kay Isabel at palaging positibo
opinyon ang sinasamantalang ipahayag ni
Isabel. Unti-unting ipinagkakatiwala ang
bata kay Isabel at nitong huli ay iniiwan na sa
kanya kung may pupuntahan ito ng ilang oras
lamang. Pagkaminsan ay ipinapaubaya na rin
kay Isabel ang magpapakain ng bottled foods
sa baby, kanya nga lamang ay panay sulpot
nitong tinitingnan ang mag-yaya.
Pinakahuli ang balitang intsik na manunulat
kung saan inapi at inalipusta ang mga
Pilipino at ang bansang Pilipinas. “ Nagagalit
din ako para sa inyo “ ang binanggit ng
amo,na naninirahan sa Repulse Bay.Sinusugan
ni Isabel sa detalye ang limitadong mga
nakasulat sa dyaryo, pati mga pangyayari at
reaksyon ng iba’t ibang sektor sa Pilipinas at
dito rin sa Hong Kong. Nakangiti ang amo ni
Isabel na sinabing kung hindi uulan at hindi
masyadong malamig baka tawagan siya para
sumama rin sila kasama ang asawa at baby sa
rally na gaganapin sa Central.
Masaya na at kalmante ang pakiramdam
ni Isabel, may asawa’t tatlong anak na taga
Manila. Salamin ng Koskos
Gumapang ang takot at nerbyos ng mga OFW
sa Discovery Bay, huling linggo ng Marso dahil
may namatay na bata habang nakapaloob
sa oras na koskos ng isang pinay.
“ Aerobics “ , “ Koskos “ o “ part time job
“ , bagama’t alam ng lahat na labag sa batas,
usong-uso kahit saan dito sa Hong Kong.
Kakutsaba ang mga among nagtitipid at ang
mga hindi naman talaga nangangailangan ng
full time helper. Pabor na pabor sa mga pinay
dahil malayong hindi hamak ang kikitain
sa per ora na trabaho. Danga’t nakasalalay
naman ang pangmatagalan kikitain dahil
mapapalayas ka na dito sa Hong kong at kung
mamalasin ay magtatagal ka pa sa kulungan
bago ka pauwiin.
Kanya-kanyang diskarte, maging pino at
huwag ipagsasabi, makisama nang walang
kaaway upang walang sumbungan.
Ika 11 ng umaga daw ang dating ni Maria sa
kanyang partime sa Discovery Bay. Maglinis at
tuloy bantayan ang batang edad isa’tkalahating
taon kung aalis ang ina nito. Sa araw na iyon
ay hinintay lamang ng amo ang pagdating
ni Maria at nagmamadaling umalis agad.
ang bilin niya, huwag istorbohin ang bata na
natutulog sa kanyang kwarto. Nagligpit at
naglinis ang inatupag ni Maria habang tulog
ang bata. Nagtatakang naisipan silipin ang bata
dahil lagpas ika-12 ng tanghali ay hindi pa ito
nagigising. Halos matulala si Maria sa nakitang
nangingitim na bata dahil nakapulopot sa leeg
ang tali ng kurtina sa tabi ng higaan nito.
Kinalimutan muna ang kalagayan na illegal
worker at buhay ng bata ang inuna. Matapos
doon, iba-iba na ang kwentong lumalabas sa
dyaryo at sa mga taong nakapaligid.
Unang apektado ang mga nagpapart time sa
Discovery Bay, pati na rin ang mga stay-out
na kung saan ang pinirmahang kontrata ay
stay-in. Ang takot at pangamba ay tiyak lilipas
din, sabi ng ilan. Likas na sa mga pinoy ang
tapang, lakas ng loob at sa hirap ng buhay at
krisis na kinakaharap sa ngayon, tuloy ang
laban sa kanya kanyang pamamaraan.
Mahal na Araw
Magandang panahon timbang-timbangin ang
sarili, nang malaman kung saan patungo ang
inyong kaluluwa at may pagkakataon pang
itama ang direksyon nito.
Ang unang-unang inaatupag ng karamihan
ay kung paano magkaroon ng pera na siya
naman kailangan upang mabuhay. Kanyakanyang pamamaraan, malinis at paghirapan.
Sa kabilang banda, madalian, makasagasa,
mandaya at magsamantala. Walang higit na
nakakaalam kung saan ka nakapaloob sa mga
nabanggit kundi ang iyong sarili.
Sa buhay OFW, hindi lang maghanap ng pera
ang bibigyan atensyon, alagaan mapanatili
o mas mapa-igting ang relasyon ng pamilya.
Malaking hamon din kung paano mapaganda
ang relasyon sa amo na siyang kasama mo sa
araw-gabi sa buhay labas bansa. Higit sa lahat,
ang mapakisamahan ang mga kababayan na
siyang kadamay mo at kapareho ng kapalaran
mapalayo sa normal na buhay.
Madaling sabihin, ngunit hindi ganun kadali
sa gawa. Minsan ang itinuturing mong
kapatid,higit sa kaibigan at bukas na aklat
ang iyong buhay sa kanya, bandang huli,
malaman mo na lang, noong nagbakasyon
siya ay ginapang ang asawa mo.
Tumutulo ang luha paglapit sa iyo upang
himingi ng tulong dahil makabagbag
damdamin mga dahilan at kung ano-anong
kadramahan na bilang kapatid kay Kristo,
ikaw ay taos pusong tutulong. Ipangutang
sa banko ang iyong pasaporte o kaya sa
porsyentuhan upang maibsan ang mabigat
na pasan ng itinuturing na api. Pagdating
ng bayaran, ikaw ang mahihirapan upang
hagilapin ang kinaawaan at siyang alang awa
sa iyo na magdusang magbayad sa nahiram
mo para sa kanya..Kalaunan, aawayin ka pa
niya at siya pa ang gagawa ng kwentong siya
ang magaling at ikaw ang masama.
May mga simpleng OFW na dating nasa tabitabi lang kahit matagal na sa Hong Kong,
Isinama mo sa mga kapakipakinabang na mga
seminars upang hindi masayang ang kanyang
oras na nakatambay buong araw ng kanyang
day-off. Ang iyong motibo ay mapaganda at
maiangat ang kanyang antas ng kaalaman
ngunit bandang huli, siya mismo ang tatapak
sa iyo dahil lumubo ang ulo at nalasing sa
biglang pag-angat.
Ang mga taong naiingit sa nakakamit mong
karangalan pagkilala sa dami ng mabubuti
mong nagagawa bilang makakawanggawa,
maraming lalabas na kwento para sirain
ka. Umaabot na isusumbong ka sa immigration
na ikaw ay nagtratrabahong illegal kahit hindi.
Kapag nawala ka sandali, ipagkakalat na ikaw
ay nakulong at kung ikaw ay may palaging
kasama, paparatangan naman na ito ay kabit
mo.
Kung ang taong mataas at kilala ay aapakan ka
na isang hamak na domestic helper at walang
kalabanlaban. Ang mga nagmamagaling
na kakilala at mga traydor na kababayan, “
Kung marami kang problema na sa tingin mo
ay hindi mo na kaya, nagkakamali ka dahil
ang ating POON ay binibigyan lang tayo na
kaya natin.Kung maraming masamang tao ay
marami din mababait.
“PAANO MO MAPAPATAWAD ANG MGA
TAONG MABIGAT ANG KASALANAN
NAGAWA SA IYO?” Kung ang Diyos ay
nakapagpatawad, ikaw pa kayang tao lamang
na nilalang ng Diyos. Sasagutin yan ng mga
pilosopo “tao lang ako at hindi ako Diyos”.
Nasa sa atin yan kapatid, tayo ang higit na
nakakaalam kung saan natin dadalhin ang
ating mga kaluluwa.
Happy Easter!
13
THE ANOINTED PRAYER CLOTHS
sure that it will not be removed. After a
few days, everyone in the family noticed
his changed lifestyle. He began to read
the Bible and attend the church. Now he
is a changed person for the glory of God!
by Apostle Renato D. Carillo / ORAS NG HIMALA staff
Numerous
pictures
depicting lives suffering
from serious sicknesses
and diseases mostly bedridden were brought to
the Man of God, Apostle Renato D. Carillo
during live services to be prayed for healing
and deliverance. In many instances, these
pictures of sick people are residents or contract
workers abroad who urgently need miracles.
Aside from this, more prayer requests come
through long distance call and e-mails handed
over to the Man of God asking for their
healing, salvation, family restoration, and
even for financial breakthrough. These actual
scenarios moved the Man of God to reach out
more people who are in need. God reminded
him of the Scripture:
yoke!
Innumerable powerful testimonies have made
known through these anointed prayer cloths.
Countless of people who are touched by these
anointed prayer cloths have been healed,
set free, saved, and overflowed with God’s
blessings! For you to experience the same
miracle, all you have to do is to avail it and
believe that God will do great things in your
life.
“…Have faith in the LORD your God and you
will be upheld; have faith in his prophets and you
will be successful.” 2 Chronicles 20:20
“…According to your faith will it be
done to you.” Matthew 9:29
The following are just a few among countless
testimonies:
•
And the anointed prayer cloths became the
solution to those in need.
In obedience to God,
along with his great
hunger for Him and deep
burden for the souls of
men, the Man of God
prayed and fast for 7 days
last May 14-20, 2007.
During his intimate
encounter and loving
fellowship with the Lord,
he brought with him
sheets of white cloth and wrapped it around
his body. The anointing in the life of the Man
of God is transferred to the prayer cloth. Since
then, the Man of God does it regularly during
his prayer and fasting with God.
•
This sheet of wide white was carefully cut
into hanky-size, all printed with Acts 19:11-12
(English and Filipino version), and sealed with
clear plastic covers. This was done exclusively
by the personal intercessors of the Man of God
as what God clearly instructed His servant.
These anointed prayer cloths are not ordinary
and cheap. They are sacred and sanctified for
the fulfillment of the will of God the Father to
heal the sick, to destroy all the works of the
devil, to set the captives free, and to reveal
that He is the miracle-working God. The
anointing in the prayer cloth will break the
14
•
“…blessed are those who have not seen and yet
have believed.” John 20:29 “And without faith it is impossible to please God,
because anyone who comes to him must believe that
he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly
seek him.” Hebrew 11:16
“God did extraordinary miracles through Paul,
so that even handkerchiefs and aprons that had
touched him were taken to the sick, and their
illnesses were cured and the evil spirits left them.”
Acts 19:11-12
•
•
One of our dear sisters who is working in
the hospital was moved by GOD seeing
one patient dying. In fact, the family of
that patient is just waiting for him to die
but this sister moved in and presented the
good news. She led him to repentance
and acceptance of the Lord. Afterward
our sister placed the prayer cloth upon the
patient. The patient seems electrified and
sweats freely. The next day that patient went
out of the hospital perfectly healed. The
doctors just shook their heads in wonder.
Glory to God who performs miracles!
A man experienced the miracle after
the prayer cloth touched his very weak
body due to complicated sicknesses. His
family had already brought him to various
hospitals yet unhealed. He had undergone
medications but to no avail, his family
went back to the quack doctor to relieve
the pain but his suffering did not cease.
Until one day, a friend informed his family
about Oras ng Himala (Miracle Hour) and the
prayer cloth. His friend led him to a prayer
of repentance and then placed the prayer
cloth in his bloated tummy. As soon as the
prayer cloth touched his body, he began
to burp again and again. He also vomited
several times and bad odor came out of his
body. After a while, his big tummy became
smaller until it became normal. And now
he is completely healed. Praise the Lord!
Another young man who was once a black
sheep of the family was transformed by
the power of God after his mother sewed
the prayer cloth under his pillow to make
•
•
One of our Jesus Is our Shield congregation
who was a salesman experienced the miracles
in blessings when he inserted the prayer
cloth under the file of flyers that he was
about to distribute. After a day, customers
came after another. His is now earning
doubled than his usual. Praise the Lord!
A man who had stroke, his body became stiff
including his lips, had slurring of speech,
had dizziness, suddenly became lethargic
and totally had loss of consciousness. His
wife knowing the miracle by God, the
healing power which goes with the prayer
cloth, immediately placed the healing
cloth on his body and after a few minutes,
the husband slowly got his consciousness
and was totally revived and recovered
as manifested by the return of his body’s
normal functioning. Glory to God!
A mother who have difficulty during her
labor and delivery because the baby could
not come out, experienced the miracles. Her
family were confused, restless and worried
because of the possibility of not having a
normal delivery. When this news reached
to one of our sisters in Christ who happens
to be their neighbor, she brought the prayer
cloth to the mother who was giving birth.
When the prayer cloth was placed over the
mother’s abdominal area, she immediately
gave birth normally to a healthy baby.
A mother suddenly experienced severe
chest pain and had difficulty and shortness
of breath and almost have lost her
consciousness after doing the laundry. Her
five year old daughter, who was her lone
companion at home, saw her condition.
Immediately, she took the prayer cloth
and placed it on the mother’s forehead
and nape part. Right after, the mother was
relieved from her chest pain, difficulty
and shortness of breath and recovered her
strength.
No amount of money can buy the anointing
of God in the prayer cloth. The anointing is
alive! It lives forever. These cloths are not for
sale, but giving our best ‘thank you offerings’
to the Lord is our responsibility. We ought to
give Him for His works.
To avail it, you may call +63 (02) 9110189/703-2024-25 or e-mail your request at
[email protected]. You may
personally avail it at our main church:
Jesus Is Our Shield Worldwide Ministries.
Cinema 21, General Roxas Ave. corner
Times Square Ave. Araneta Center, Cubao,
Quezon City
Avail one now and experience the greatness of
God!
Legal Matters
by Barrister Ody A. Lai
Got questions regarding legal matters? Write us and we’ll get your
queries answered by our knowledgable columnist. Send all correspondence to Friends International Magazine by post or email.
Civil Justice Reform on 2 April 2009 - Ano yon? Part 1
I am a construction worker in Hong Kong. Last
year, I had a work related accident causing me
to undergo surgery in my back. I intend to file a
personal injury claim against my employer and
the insurance company. When I went to seek
legal advice from some litigation clerks who are
my friends, I was told that there is now a civil
justice reform staring this April 2009 and many
procedures were changed. The litigation clerks
cannot explain to me these changes. Please help!
Jose of Chai Wan
Yes! Starting 2 April 2009, the Civil Justice
Reform (CJR) comes into effect in Hong
Kong. It will therefore affect civil proceedings
in the High Court as well as the District
Court except for some specialist list of cases
where the Judges will implement new rules.
Your Personal Injury Claim will be affected
by the CJR. For further information, visit
the civil justice reform website at www.
civiljustice.gov.hk. Unrepresented litigants
can also get from the Resource Centre
information leaflets that are easy to read.
When in doubt, it is best to get the advice
of the legal professionals.
The objectives of the CJR are: to increase
the cost-effectiveness of any practice and
procedure to be followed in relation to civil
proceedings before the Court; to ensure that
a case is dealt with as expeditiously as is
reasonably practicable; to promote a sense
of reasonable proportion and procedural
economy in the conduct of proceedings;
to ensure fairness between the parties; to
facilitate the settlement of disputes; and to
ensure that the resources of the Court are
distributed fairly.
The above were just few of the numerous
aims of the CJR. In sum, the court has now
taken a more active role in managing the
case to reduce delays in getting to trial and
the elimination of unnecessary interlocutory
applications. This is done by identifying the
issues at the earliest stage and get it solved
as soon as possible.
Jose has not yet started his claims; he will
need to proceed under the full banner of
the CJR. For those who already filed their
claims before the commencement date of
the CJR on 2 April 2009, and are pending
before the court, various transitional
provisions and procedures are available to
facilitate the smooth transition of the Civil
Justice Reform. Please refer to the Rules of
the High Court, Rules of the District Court
and the Practice Directions to note the
changes and transitional arrangements that
are applicable to their cases.
Jose will start his action by preparing either a
writ of summons or by originating summons.
The writ of summons is commonly used for
commencing a civil litigation where there is
a substantial dispute of the facts between
the parties. Originating summons is usually
suitable for cases where there is only little or
no dispute of fact and the parties only raise
issues of law for the Court’s determination.
In the personal injury case, there could
be substantial dispute as to the facts and
Jose will in all likelihood use a writ of
summons.
What has changed under the CJR is the use
of originating summons forms, either Form
8 or Form 10. It is envisaged that the Form
10 which is issued by the Court Registry
with an automatic given date and time for
the first hearing for a short judge’s directions
as opposed to Form 8 that does not give the
dates until after the acknowledgement of
serve of documents and filing of affidavits,
will be in common use in the future. But
where for some reason, the wrong form was
used, the court has now power to continue
the proceedings as if it was begun the use
of correct form. This is to avoid rendering
inappropriate proceedings a complete waste
of time and money.
For the case of Jose, it is anticipated that the
claims can be satisfied purely in monetary
terms. The CJR has a new District Court
Rules Order 13A, where it encourages
early settlement by giving the Defendants,
the company and the insurance company,
the opportunity to admit the monetary
claims of Jose, in part or in whole. This
new order will also allow the Defendants
to make proposals as to whether such
admitted amount is to be paid in cash or
in terms, like installment basis. This will
automatically amount to a counter-offer
from the Defendants, in order to quickly
settle the claim, saving time, and litigation
costs. The Defendants are willing to pay
Jose an amount lower that what Jose wants.
Of course, Jose may accept or decline or
make a counter proposal as to the amount
or the mode and terms of payment. Where
the only dispute is the terms of payment
and not the amount, the court can enter
judgment for the amount admitted and
agreed and the court can just determine the
remaining issue of terms of payment.
If the Defendant’s proposal was totally
rejected by Jose, then Jose may decide to
continue with the proceedings. But even if
Jose agreed to the amount and the terms of
payment, but the Defendants subsequently
fail to pay in accordance with the agreement,
Jose may then proceed to either enforce the
payment of the whole original amount or
may opt to enforce payment of the unpaid
amount only.
Previously the Defendants have 14 days
to file defence to the claim. The CJR has
lengthened it to 28 days, a more realistic
period to properly prepare a substantive
defence. Where previously, the parties make
their own applications for requesting the
other side for further and better particulars,
the court, in its own power can now order
for further and better particulars of a
pleading, where the judge believes this to
be necessary for either disposing fairly of
the cause or matter or for saving costs. The
court in its own motion can now strike out
all or part of a pleading on one or other
based on the standards grounds such as the
claim having no reasonable cause of action
or defence; the case is scandalous, frivolous
or vexatious; the pleading is prejudice or
embarrassment to the fair trial of the case;
and the case is an abuse of process. In sum,
walang karapatan na mag-file ng kaso.
These measures discussed above were meant
to stamp out mga kasong walang karapatan
which are clogging the legal system, from
the proper appreciation of genuine issues in
dispute between parties that needs urgent
and speedy justice for resolution.
I would like to greet lahat ng mga
kababayans…. Seek the life that leads
to God’s righteousness. May you have
peace and the blessings of forgiveness this
EASTER!
15
Domestic Workers Want Protection
from Government
by Julia Buen Terry
To commemorate the International Women’s
Day in 08 March 2009, local and foreign
Domestic Workers in Hong Kong from the
Federation of Asian Domestic Workers’
Unions staged a rally from HSBC Bank
in Central to Hong Kong SAR Central
Government Offices.
In a letter handed to Chief Executive
Donald Tsang, the Federation said the
HKSAR government and the sending
country governments (Philippines, Thailand,
Indonesia, Nepal, etc.) did a little to undo the
structural exploitation, stop the abuses, and
remove the oppression of women and migrant
workers in Hong Kong.
The group blamed the abuses and vulnerability
of migrant workers on the discriminatory and
unfair policies of the Hong Kong Government.
On its inability and the sending country
governments in stopping the illegal and
excessive agency fees and the latter’s failure
to properly defend the rights of their migrant
workers.
Among the problems cited by the Federation
16
(Kwentong Prime Gold)
Taong 1989 nang mangibang-bansa si Gng.
Flora Tababa, tubong Isabela na may asawa
at apat na anak. Nagtungo siya sa Gitnang
Silangan upang magtrabaho at maibigay ang
mga pangangailangan ng kanyang pamilya.
Naganap ang Gulf War noong 1991 at
nakasama si Flora sa mga OFW na naghirap
sa diyerto. Dahil sa gulo ng bansang Kuwait
at sa kagustuhang makita na ang pamilya,
umuwi siya ng Pilipinas.
The workers were calling on the Hong Kong
Government to protect the Domestic Workers
in the territory amidst the Global Economic
Crisis.
The
group
cited
the
government’s
announcement that Hong Kong’s Economy is
in recession and economist expects it to worsen
in the second half of 2009 and in 2010. Thus,
directly threatening the work and livelihood of
Domestic Workers.
Kaagapay sa Tagumpay
that are commonly faced by the local domestic
workers are issues of no minimum wage, no
job security, low pay, no social security, societal
discrimination, and prevalent occupational
safety and health problems. Moreover, the
issues of widespread underpayment, physical/
verbal abuses, ill treatment, discrimination,
excessive and illegal recruitment fees were also
rampant to the migrant workers. And they
are made to work for an average of 16 hours
per day while receiving low pay and no social
security.
decent minimum wage for all, occupational
safety and health insurance/ protection for
domestic workers, and compensation fund
for domestic workers. 5. Support the adoption
of a new International Labor Organization
Convention that recognizes and protects
the rights and status of domestic workers.
6. Uphold and implement Kong Kong’s
obligations and commitments under the
international labor and human rights law. 7.
Support the ratification of the United Nation’s
Convention on the Protection of the Rights of
All Migrant workers and Members of Their
Families.
2009 ng Prime Gold.
FIM: Sa anong paraan ka naman natulungan
ng Prime Gold?
Kung gusto ninyong mailathala ang iyong
“Kwentong Prime Gold” ay sumulat lamang
sa Friends International Magazine o sa Prime
Gold.
F: Unang una, sa pagpaaral ng mga anak ko.
Noong highschool sila, doon ako humihiram
sa “kapatid” ng Prime Gold. Hanggang sa
makatapos na sila ng kolehiyo, sa Prime
Gold ako. Ang panganay ko ay nakatapos ng
Engineering course at ngayon ay Engineer sa
isang kumpanya sa Batangas, ang pangalawa
ko naman ay nakatapos ng Education at
nagtuturo sa isang government elementary
school. Ang aking pangatlong anak ay
nakatapos ng Political Science at ngayon ay
nasa Canada na, habang ang bunso ko naman
ay kakatapos lang ng Nursing noong 2008 at
nagi-intern na sa hospital.
Sa hirap ng buhay, nagpasya si Flora na
tumuloy ng trabaho bilang OFW sa Hong
Kong. Taong 1993 nang dumating siya sa
Hong Kong at hanggang ngayon ay sa isang
employer lang siya nagtatrabaho.
Natupad niya ang mga pangarap na
makapagtapos sa kolehiyo ang kanyang apat
na anak at makapagpundar ng sariling bahay
hanapbuhay sa Pilipinas. Ito ay sa tulong ng
kanyang Kaagapay sa Tagumpay, ang Prime
Gold.
The Federation of Asian Domestic Workers’
Unions is composed of Hong Kong Domestic
Workers’ General Union, Filipino Domestic
Workers’ Union, Indonesian Migrant Workers’
Union, Thai Domestic Workers’ Union, and
the Union of Nepalese Domestic Workers.
The domestic workers were demanding
from the HKSAR government the following;
1. Protect the jobs and wages of domestic
workers in Hong Kong amidst the global
crisis. 2. The HK government’s economic
stimulus plan should prioritize in protecting
and creating jobs, especially sustainable and
decent ones. It should prioritize in helping
the workers, women, domestic workers, the
migrants, the poor and vulnerable sectors of
HK society. 3. Scrap the discriminatory and
oppressive policies towards domestic workers
and women workers. 4. Urgently institute
and/ or strengthen social security protection
for domestic workers and women migrants in
Hong Kong- through universal social security,
na kung mahusay kang customer.
Nakapagpatayo din kami ng sarili naming
bahay at nakapundar na ng jeep na hanggang
sa ngayon ay minamaneho ng aking asawa.
Active member din ako ng Prime Gold. ‘Yong
mga kaibigan ko na nangangailangan ilalapit
ko lang sa Prime Gold at tutulungan nila sa abot
ng kanilang makakaya. Masaya ako na maging
customer ng Prime Gold…kahit malayo ako
sa aking pamilya eh para akong may extended
family sa Prime Gold. Hanggang Pilipinas
nga proud akong maging customer ng Prime
Gold dahil kung wala talaga sila, mahihirapan
ako sa mga pangangailangan ng pamilya ko sa
Pilipinas.
Friends Int’l Magazine (FIM): Paano niyo
nakilala ang Prime Gold?
The action was jointly supported by the
Coalition for Migrants’ Rights, Asian Migrant
Centre, Alliance of Progressive Labor- HK,
Asian Domestic Workers Alliance, and Hong
Kong Confederation of Trade Unions.
Flora (F): Dati kasi akong humihiram sa
“kapatid” ng Prime Gold. Nang mai-launch
ang Prime Gold noong 2003, na para sa mga
matatagal na sa amo, may tumawag sa akin
at naimbitahan ako. Sinubukan ko, at simula
noong naitaguyod ang Prime Gold hanggang
sa ngayon ay naging loyal customer na ako. Sila
ang nagpasimula ng mababang interest rate, at
hanggang ngayon ganon pa din ang kanilang
ino-offer. Kaya hindi na ako naghanap ng
iba ever since at wala talaga akong naging
problema. Isang tawag lang ay okay na, lalo
FIM: Masasabi mo bang ang Prime Gold ang
iyong “Kaagapay sa Tagumpay”?
F: Oo naman, oong-oo! *Si Gng. Flora Tababa
ay isa sa sampung finalists ng Dakilang OFW
17
Do you want your photos on this page? Group pictures, special gatherings, association activities are most welcome. Send them to us by post or email and you just might find
yourself in our next issue.
18
. . . friends snapshots
19
Mabuhay Ka Kabayan!
by: Julia Buen Terry
Mabuhay Ka Kabayan is a column on OFWs who has exemplary works,
outstanding service to their fellows, has given pride to our country, serves
as a role model and an inspiration to Filipinos in Hong Kong.
F
or seventeen years working
as Domestic Helper in Hong
Kong, Suzie Sayas has devoted
herself in supporting her family while
on Sunday’s she is busy helping her
fellow OFWs.
She talks to Julia Buen Terry about
her life in the former British colony
before she goes home for good.
I have been working in Hong Kong
for 17 years. My first employer is a
doctor from Shatin who works at the Chinese University. My second
employer was again a doctor from the same university.
I stayed for eleven years with my third employer. I am lucky with all
my employers; they are good and supportive of me. They understand
my situation being the breadwinner of our family.
Hong Kong is a big help for me and my family. I was able to send my
kids in school, buy a modest house, a vehicle, and recently a store.
My greatest achievement in life is having all my children finished
their studies and have a job.
sure I will miss my socializing here.
ANIBA - HK elects new officers
by ARG
I asked my daughter if I could still come back here and work. She
said, it is up to me to decide if I am not happy at home. Meantime, I
will go home and rest. They said, they are now all financially capable
of supporting me.
I sacrifice a lot for my kids. Now I am getting my prize on it.
OFWs life is full of hardship, sadness, pain, and sacrifices. But, I
do believe that in every sacrifice, there is a reward.
To my fellow OFWs, always prioritize your family. Because of
them we are here, so let us not waste our time and effort. Be patient
and you will reach your dreams.
I am actively involved in helping OFWs in Hong Kong since I
came here. I was the Vice- President of Chinese University Filipino
Migrant Workers in the early 1990’s.
I divide my time and prioritize things between the other four
groups that I am with, namely; the Marinduque Migrants Workers,
Dole- OWWA Microsoft Organization- HK, Sai Kung Filipino
Association, and Clearwater Bay Filipino Workers.
I also volunteered for the disabled rehabilitation center in Pok Fu
Lam and at Tseung Kwan O. I also do counseling to our fellows at
the Queen Mary. I do not have any formal training but my experience
had taught me a lot.
I become a member of DOMO- HK in 2006. It is here where I
experienced the true sense of helping our fellows in Hong Kong.
Sometimes we do voluntary works at the OWWA office at the
Consulate.
My eldest is an international flight stewardess base in France,
the second finished a course related to computers and now have a
business of his own, and my youngest is an HRM graduate bound
for Italy next month.
Adivay Ni Itogon Benguet Association
(Aniba-HK) celebrated their second aniversary
last April 5 at the Peak Tram Garden. The
highlight of the affair was the induction of the
new set of officers for 2009.
It was a simple gathering
but the unity is seenn.
Friends from the Filipino
community were invited and
joined a group of more than
40 friends and members
who all enjoyed the food,
games and dances. Last year’s 1st anniversary
was held in Wanchai Park.
The group was formed to render service to
their kababayans in their Municipality and is
their sole objective.
United Migrants
Entrepeneurs Livelihood
Association Graduates
The group would like to express their heartfelt
thanks to all the friends who attended their
program.
The 1st batch of graduates on 15 Feb, 2009
at 5/F Caritas Community Hall 2 Caine
Rd. Cental, Hong Kong.
The officers sworn into office are:
President
Bernadette Benitez
Saikung Bratz Elects First Set Of Officers
by ARG
I am the sole breadwinner in the family and I am thankful to my
husband who guides our children. I do not have any major problem
with them as they grew up.
Meat Processing
Trainor: Ofelia P. Baquirin
Anna Bel E. Tan, Elizabeth Carranza,
Elizabeth Tungawan, Estelita C. Sad-Ang,
Jackeline Mandang, Leavy Q. Urbano,
Folra D. Garcia, Merna C. Sad-Ang,
Rowena M. Cerezo, Siliccy D. Valero,
Teresita Dalugdugan
My kids and I treat each other like friends and siblings. We discuss
problems in order to solve them.
Despite of all the pain and hardship that I have gone through here
as a domestic helper, I was able to raise my kids and achieve my goals
for them.
My only regret in life is, I was not able to see my kids grow.
However, I see it in the positive side, if I have not leaved my family; I
may not be able to achieve all my dreams for them.
It is heart warming to hear from my kids, “Mama, eto na ang
sahod ko.”
I wish DOMO- HK to become bigger and stronger to be able to
help the OFWs in Hong Kong and continue its charitable projects. I
am thankful to our DOMO- HK President that even at midnight you
can call for help
They are now the ones buying things for me, asking what I what for
myself. Recently my daughter bought me a ring.
I believe communication and understanding on every member of
the organization is vital. Every problem that arises can be settled
through proper deliberation.
I focused my time and effort to my kids during my stay here. I
never thought of nasty things like going to disco or whatsoever. I do
not think of luxury for myself, sometimes I can hardly buy my under
wears.
I learnt a lot of charity works in DOMO- HK. We also have lots of
adventures and camaraderie with other Filipino Associations here in
Hong Kong. We are happy that we help our fellow OFWs in DOMOHK.
Few years ago, my kids asked me to go home for good but I am not
ready yet. I always thought of my peers and the organization I would
left behind. I am already use to my busy and happy Sundays. I am
Right now, I am helping a Filipina who is having a case against a
recruitment agency and she is staying in our house in Manila.
20
Vice President
Norma Capsula
Secretary
Jacqueline Saguiod
Asst. Sec
Jennifer Solano
Treasurer
Edilberta Cawayan
Asst. Treasurer
Elizabeth Lictad
Valentina Maingpis
P.R.Os
Gloria Damang
Mila Bungis
Committee on Culture & Sports: Francess Ann Likias
Maretess Padnas
Jennifer Amiao
Adoracion Canite
Committee on Program:
Lucida Maingpis
Rowena Dating
Advisers:
Arnold Grospe
Mary Lai
Ribbon Folding
Trainor: Shirlie C. Sad- Ang
The newly formed Saikung Bratz elected
its first set of officers on February 22 and
conducted their oath taking ceremony last
March 8 at 3J Filipino store in Saikung
Consul Kira Danganan-Azucena was the
guest of honor, who also administered the
oath for nine officers who will lead the
women’s group.
Supported by other organizations in
Saikung, Saikung Bratz has about 60
members as of March 8. The group was
organized for their main objective, which is
community service.
The officers are:
President
Myrna (Lola) Latumbo
Vice Pres.
Lilibeth Peregil
Secretary
Leah Maquilang
Asst.Sec.
Ruby Vallejo
Treasurer
Ex Belgica
Asst.Treas.
Connie Lanaca
Audito
Chona Panique
Asst.Auditor Liezel Ruma
P.R.O.s
Elizabeth Paniza
Marie Trexie Rebong
Advisers
Zenaida Macdonald
Winnie Llave
Tess Escalona
Jesusa Bayaua
Adela M. Dalluay, Augusta M. Ramirez,
Conrita M. Malsi, Maylene Donio
Card Making
Trainor: Augusta M. Ramirez
Adela M. Dalluay, Conrita M. Malsi,
Shirlie C. Sad-Ang
Beads Making
Trainor: Reggie Ahig & Marites Ancajas
Jean Lopez, Lorebelle Lucas, Mary Jane
Armas, Nieva Jane Sangcada, Shiela
Tamba, Sofia Sabucdalao.
21
Lessons on Heroism
by Bishop. Eddie Villanueva
I
n one of my
articles
for
my Monday column in AbanteTonite, a tabloid
daily
circulated
throughout the Philippines, I wrote about
the story of a heroic kid. And since his
story is replete with valuable lessons, I am
sharing it with all our avid readers here in
Hong Kong .
Browsing through daily reports on
worsening global economic downturn,
mounting cases of corruption, and
burning political issues, a peculiar news
story caught my attention. According to
the article, a street kid nonchalantly moved
an improvised bomb from a busy street in
Cotabato City in Mindanao; his one heroic
act saved untold number of civilians in the
place.
Investigators claimed that the bomb
was made from 60-mm mortar shell,
with cell phone as a trigger mechanism.
Eye witnesses said it was left behind by
unidentified motorcycle-riding men near a
waiting shed where local passengers often
converged. Police believed the perpetrators
were members of the terrorist group,
Jemaah Islamiyah.
How the street kid entered into the picture
22
is indeed interesting. It was reported that
the kid saw an abandoned plastic bag,
with unknown yet suspicious content, and
carried it away from the busy street to a
relatively safer place. The vendors, seeing
what was going on, immediately contacted
the local police to report the incident.
After a while, the bomb disposal team
arrived, confirmed the presence of a bomb,
disarmed it, and brought it to headquarter.
The kid’s one act of courage teaches us a
lot of good things; let me share with you
a few:
First, concern must be backed up by
action. It is possible that there were other
people who saw the abandoned plastic bag.
It is possible that they were just as curious,
probably even more concerned, than the
kid. But they only peaked, pried, then
moved on – careful only to save themselves
from any and all potential dangers. That
separated the “kid” from the “men”
because he opted to throw all caution to
the wind to save the others in the area. It
is humbling how the kid who could not be
saved from the dangers of the streets by his
government instead saved them all. This
proves that the measure of a person can
never be determined by age or stage in life.
Second, no help is wasted. It is noteworthy
how the vendors who witnessed the
kid’s selfless act extended help to him in
the process. They readily contacted the
concerned authorities and asked for their
assistance. They did not doubt nor question
him; they simply did their part, they played
their supporting roles nicely. Ultimately,
they all had a happy ending.
Third, authorities’ urgent response to
people’s call is crucial. It is praiseworthy
how the police responded immediately to
the people’s call for help. This is actually
what saved and averted any losses or
damages to lives and properties at such
crucial time. This also proves that while
there are, sadly, a few men in uniform who
fall into crime and corruption, a much
greater number of them continue to stay
true and committed to their sworn duty to
protect and serve the people.
Great is the Filipino race. This is validated
by that street kid’s heroic act, those vendors’
unquestioning support, and the concerned
authorities’ honorable commitment to
their duty. This is also proven by the selfless
sacrifices of more than 10 million Filipino
migrant workers worldwide who choose to
be away from their families and loved ones
in order to sufficiently provide for them.
What can be more heroic that this?
Indeed, there is a hero in each of us. And
it is for this reason that we may remain
hopeful for a bright future, despite the
darkness all around us.
23
Balitang Showbiz
ni Noel Asinas
Vic Sotto, wala sa pinagpilian para
maging host ng Who Wants To Be a
Millionaire? ng TV 5
WALA si Vic Sotto sa pinagpipilian na maging host ng ibabalik na ere na Who Wants
To Be a Millionaire? ng TV 5. Kabilang sa mga pangalan na nakuha naming ay sina
Jomari Yllana, Ryan Agoncillo, Richard Gomez, at Gabby Concepcion.
Walang Vic Sotto na matunog noong sinasabing magiging host ng Who Wants To Be
a Millionaire?. Kung nakuha si Vic, dalawa na sila ng
kanyang
kaibigang si Joey de Leon na may programa sa
TV 5.
Unang ipinalabas sa bansa ang Who Wants
To Be a Millionaire? noong 2000 na
hosted by Christopher de Leon.
Sino ba ang makakalimot sa Who
Wants to Be a Millionaire? na nagpasikat sa bansa ng mga katagang Ask the
Audience at Phone a Friend na mga option ng studio contestant o tinatawag
na kanilang “lifelines” para magkaroon pa ng pagkakataong manatili sa game
kahit hindi nila alam ang sagot sa katanungan. Kasama din sa mga lifelines
na ito ang 50/50 kung saan dalawang maling sagot ang tinatanggal sa apat na
multiple choices para mas madaling mahulaan ng contestant ang tamang sagot.
Wow Hayop show nina Wally at Jose successful sa
ratings game; isa sa Top 30 shows sa Luzon Area
Polo Ravales, nakipaghiwalay na sa gf; gagawin ng
leading man sa mga soap ng GMA
INAMIN ni Polo Ravales sa set ng Dear Friend sa Baguio City na tapos na ang
relasyon nila ni Bianca Paz, ang contestant no.6 ng Bb, Pilipinas 2009. After
four months na relasyon, napagpasyahan nilang dalawa na asikasuhin na lang
nila ang kani-kanilang career.
Si Polo ay ipagpapatuloy ang kanyang acting career. Samantalang si Bianca ay
muling sasabak sa ramp modeling , print and TV commercial. Then, sa 2011
ay balak muling sumali sa Bb. Pilipinas Beauty Pageant. Ani Polo: “Pareho
naming kagustuhan na maghiwalay bilang magkaibigan. Gusto pa naming
mapalawak ang bawat career namin. Kaya loveless ako ngayon at walang
ibang ka-date.
Pinabulaanan ni Polo ang tsismis na ginamit lang daw siya ni Bianca para
magka-publicity sa Bb. Pilipinas 2009 pageant. Bagkus, pinagtanggol pa si
Bianca ni Polo sa pagsasabing hindi magagawa sa kanya iyon ng dalaga. Super
bait kasi ni Bianca sa kanya kaya magiging friends pa sila ngayon.
Samantala, ngayong Holy Week pagkatapos ng taping ng Igorota episode ni
Polo sa Banawe Rice Terraces, magbabakasyon siya at kasama ang kanyang
mga kabarkada sa Visayas. Ani Polo: Pupunta kami ng friends ko sa Bantayan
Island sa Cebu. Doon kami mag-i-spend ng Holy Week. Aalis ako ng Manila ng
Wednesday. Kasama ko ang mga barkada ko. Dahil sa taping ng Dear Friend,
naurong ang alis ng tropa ko. Gusto naming sabay-sabay ang trip namin. Mag-mula sa airport ng Cebu, magba-by land
transportation kami. Sa dulo ng Cebu sa southern part, sasakay na kami ng boat papuntang Bantayan.”
Tungkol sa career move, hindi na niya uulitin ang pagpapakita ng katawan sa Walang Kawala. Gayundin ang
pakikipaghalikan sa kapwa lalaki sa pelikula. Ani Polo: ”Nagawa ko na, bakit ko pa uulitin?” Naipakita lang niyang kahit
anong role ay puede niyang gawin.
MUKHANG ii-elevate na si Polo Ravales bilang leading man sa mga soap opera ng GMA 7. Di na siya ang usual kontrabida
ng mga soap ng network. Nasabi niyang naghahanap si Ms. Wilma Galvante, SVP for Entertainment ng GMA 7, ng babagay
sa kanyang leading lady. Ibig sabihin ba nito na bida role naman ang ibibigay
sa kanya?
Okay naman kay Polo na maging bida minsan. Tutal magaling naman siyang
umarte at maraming character ang kaya niyang gawin. Gagawin ba siyang
pangunahing villain sa mga soap ng GMA 7? Talagang magaling siyang actor
sa totoo lang.
BASE sa ulat ng AGB Nielsen Philippines, pumasok sa top 30 program agad ng GMA 7 ang bagong show nina Jose Manalo
at Wally Bayola, ang Wow Hayop sa Total Urban Luzon Area.
Super taas ang ratings ng
programa noong first airing nito
na naka-above 20% ratings. Iba
talaga ang tandem ng dalawang
comedian dahil may hatak sila
sa fans dahil sa kakaiba niyang
comedy skit na ipinakikita
tuwing Miyerkoles ng gabi
sa infotainment program na
mapapanood pagkatapos ng
Fated To Love You.
Dito sa latest niyang assignment sa Dear Friend, one month na ipalalabas ito
na once a week na tuwing Sunday. Ka-triangle siya nina Glaiza de Castro at
Patrick Garcia sa istorya ng childhood friend na nagkaibigan.
Si Glaiza ay kaibigan noong bata pa sila si Patrick. Hingahan niya ng kanyang
mga siktreto sa buhay. Pero, di niya alam na may lihim pala itong pag-ibig sa
kanya.
Nagulo ang utak ni Patrick nang pumasok sa eksena si Polo na nagawi sa
kanilang lugar sa Banawe, Mt. Province. Nagbakasyon si Polo rito na mula sa
Baguio City. Dito na iikot ang buhay nang tatlo sa kanilang love story.
Super sipag at dedicated sa
kanilang trabaho sina Jose at
Wally. Alam ba ninyo na bukod sa
daily shows sa Eat Bulaga, tumatanggap pa sila ng regular show sa mga comedy bars. Click ang tandem ang dalawa, kaya
hindi kataka-taka sila ang no.1 duo ngayon sa Pilipinas.
24
Magkaroon kaya ng pagkakataon si Patrick na makuha muli si Glaiza na na-in
love agad kay Polo nang magtapat ng pag-ibig?
25
Patrick Garcia, bibili nang coffee table book ni
Jennylyn Mercado upang
makita ang anak sa
photos na kasama ng ina
MATAGAL sagutin ni Patrick Garcia ang tanong na kung bibili
siya ng coffee table book ni Jennylyn Mercado. Nang masagot
niya’y nasabi niyang bibili siya nito dahil andoon ang kanyang
anak at out of curiosity na rin.
1st OFW SSS Caravan 2009
The 1st OFW Caravan, “SSS Kapihan sa Macau” at PCG Macau was succcesfully held
last March 27, 2009. The same event “Kapihan sa Hong Kong” was also held at PCG
Hong Kong the next day.
The two events were both well attended with Filcom Leaders and partner banks. SSS
President and CEO Romulo L. Neri was the guest of honor. He answered various
quesitons from stimulus package fund issues and SSS viability.
In the same event, the SSS automated kiosk was also presented to the Filipino
community.
Ronald Arvie Briones
3rd Runner-up, Men’s Top Gun
Louie Soriano
Champion, Hammer Cricket B-Flight
Arvin San Gabriel
3rd-Runner-up, Hammer Cricket B-Flight 3rd
Runner-up 501 OI/DO
Joint 9th Doubles with Arnold Simon
Arnold Simon
Joint 9th, Hammer Cricket
Joint 9th Doubles with Arvin San Gabriel
Dahil sa pagsasama nina Patrick at Glaiza sa Baguio at Banawe ng limang araw, may balikan kayang pangliligaw ang
maganap? Sa isyung na-basted siya noong February ni Glaiza, madaling tugon agad ang sinabi ni Patrick, ”Eh, nangligaw
ba ako.!” Paano ako maba-basted!” Eh, naging magkaibigan lang daw sila noon. Ewan, kasi, may balita kaming talagang
pumapasyal si Patrick sa bahay ni Glaiza. May dala pa raw bulaklak at pagkain. Eh, ano ang ibig sabihin nito?
Alam ba ninyo na recently ay nakipagmeeting na siya kay Ms. Wilma Galvante,
ang SVP for Entertainment ng GMA 7 para gawing contract star na siya ng Artist
Center. Ibig sabihin ay bibigyan na siya ng regular shows sa GMA at kasama rito ang
mapasama sa mga soap opera.
Na impress ang GMA 7 management sa ipinakitang gilas ni JC sa Dear Friend
episode na Karibal, kung saan naging partner niya si Jewel Mische. Patok ang ending kung saan nagkaroon silang
dalawa na kissing scenes. Sabi ng aming source sa production, na-take one lang kanilang kissing scene.
Pero, bida rin dito ay ang tambalang Katrina Halili at Alfred Vargas. Nagkatuluyan din sina Katrina at Alfred sa huling
yugto last Sunday ng episode. Next Sunday ang ipapalit ay ang Igorota na tampok sina Glaiza de Castro, Patrick Garcia
at Polo Ravales.
26
Named over-all champion was Team
Philippines.
Lourence Ilagan, Ronald Arvie Briones,
Ramon Sabalboro & Analiza Awitan
International Team Challenge, Champion
Philippines
First time na magkakaroon ng kissing scene sina Patrick at Glaiza on screen. Aba, nagreact pa
man din ang mother ni Glaiza na si Cristy na diumano’y sobrang haba nag eksenang halikan.
Eh, sa totoo lang ay nagtake-2 ang dalawang artista dahil nagkakailangan sila pa sa eksenang
ito.
MAGANDA ang resulta ng first acting assignment ni JC Tiuseco, ang first
Survivor Philippines winner, na ngayo’y nag-aartista na.Kalalabas lang niya sa
highly successful Dear Friend episode na Karibal. Mataas ang rating ng programa
hanggang magtapos ng episode.
The Bullshooter Asia V darts tournament
was held last February 2009 at the HK
Convention & Exhibition Center in
Kowloon Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
Lourence Ilagan
Champion, Men’s Top Gun
Champion, Super One & MVP
Sa ngayon ay loveless pa rin daw si Patrick. Pero, napabalita noon na nali-link siya kay Glaiza
de Castro. Incidentally, magkapatner sila for the first time sa Igorota episode ng Dear Friend
na magpapanood sa Sunday, April 12.
Survivor Philippines first winner JC
Tiuseco, contract star na ng GMA 7
Artist Center
Bullshooter Asia V
Darts Tournament
Bullshooter Asia V results as follows:
Ani Patrick nang nakausap namin sa set ng Dear Friend sa episode na Igorrota sa Camp John Hay, Baguio: “Saka, hindi
ko pa nakikita ang anak ko. Gusto kong makita siya kahit sa photos man lang.” Talagang hindi
pa sila nagkikita ng kanyang anak at lalo pa ni Jennylyn. Parang sarado na sa utak niya ng
nakaraan sa kanila ni Jen.
Basta, tingnan na lang nating ang Igorota episode kung gaano sila ka-sweet sa isa’t isa sa mga eksena.
Filipinos Rule
Fabian Manila Birthday Golf Tournament
Fabian Manila hosted a golf tournament
last March 21, 2009 in celebration of his
50th birthday at Dona Pepita Golf Course,
Daraga, Albay.
Annaliza Awitan
Ladies Champion,Hammer Cricket
Champion 501 best of 3 & MVP
Ruel Elloso
1st Runner-up, 501 Best of 3
Close friends and relatives, who came
all the way from Manila and Naga City,
participated in the tournament which
was set against the backdrop of Mayon
Volcano.
Results of the said tournament are as
follows:
Class A Champion Nino Velasco
1st Runner up
Arnold Grospe
2nd Runner-Up
Ronald Sarte
Class B Champion Atty. Carlito Bailon
1st Runner-Up
Colonel Benigay
2nd Runner-Up
Thirdy Obaniana
Class C Champion Eng’r Nong Licup
1st Runner-Up
Eng’r Gerry Silva
2nd Runner-Up
Dr. Imbo Moraleda
Class D Champion Tiso Requenta
1st Runner-Up
Jun Marcaida
2nd Runner-Up
Joselito Sarte
27
Notes from
POLO
Vancouver
By: Labatt Bernie B. Julve
Part 3: Canada Labor Market Assessment
When I assumed office as Labor Attache for Western Canada
in June of last year, I was full of hope that Canada would provide
huge employment opportunities for our people. Just before that,
the Philippines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
on Human Resource Cooperation and the Deployment of Filipino
Workers with the Province of British Columbia and the same
MOU was being cooked for the Province of Alberta. With tens
of thousands of Filipino workers heading for Western Canada
as the area achieved unprecedented growth in its economy
driven principally by the massive development of the oil sands
in Alberta, the MOUs became necessary to ensure an orderly
and ethical recruitment of our workers and to sustain their
deployment in the years ahead through cooperation in human
resource development.
And I was absolutely happy when I had to plunge to work
as soon as I arrived because there were just plenty of things to
do. I mentioned in my earlier Notes how difficult it was for me
during the first few months as many things needed to be done
and I was all alone for most of the time. Hundreds of employment
contracts and related documents were immediately submitted
for processing confirming our prognosis that the market indeed
offered great opportunities for our workers. Our workers were
hired in practically all sectors with construction, oil and gas as
well as the medical field leading in terms of number deployed.
Recruitment in the Live-in Caregiver Program also increased as
well as in the hospitality and service industry. Countless inquiries
on how to hire workers from the Philippines were received. Unknown to us, a kind of threat was brewing south of the
border. The U.S.A. was slowly but steadily hit by some sort of an
economic tsunami that started in the housing mortgage industry.
One by one its banks and financial institutions fell like dominoes
and soon the winds of recession crossed its borders and other
economies across the globe were affected. With its conservation
style of managing its banks and financial institutions, Canada
for a long while withstood the onslaught of the global economic
downturn. However, notwithstanding expert management of its
economy, Canada could not do anything about the sad state of its
southern neighbour. As sales of products including motor vehicles
plummeted in the U.S., manufacturing plants closed including
those in Canada. The Eastern Provinces, notably Ontario and
Quebec being manufacturing centres and whose economies are
closely tied up with the U.S.A., were the first to be affected.
Thousands lost their jobs.
The western provinces of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta
and British Columbia are largely commodity-based (oil, minerals,
timber). They are supposedly not quite vulnerable to general
market contraction or shrinkages .However, Canada could not do
anything about the slumping price of oil in the world market. From
a high of U.S. $ 147 per barrel in July 2008, the price went down
28
to below U.S. $ 40 per barrel in the latter part of the year. That
did it for the giants in the oil and gas industry. They suspended
if not stopped further exploration and development of the tar
sands. With the decision, the construction companies doing
business mostly for these oil companies had no choice but to
resort to massive lay-offs of their workers including our nationals
as there was less if not no more work to do. Nonetheless the recruitment of our workers in the secondary
market has not waned. We continue to process employment
contracts for workers in the hospitality and service industry,
agriculture and the medical sectors. In other words, while there
were job losses in some sectors there were gains in the others.
That being said, Canada is still a good market. Canadians
believe the economy will recover and when it does, many believe
it will do so with “a vengeance” as it did following a similar
recession in the ‘80s. Already the government is pouring in
stimulus packages to the economy including bridge financing
to the ailing automotive industry. The country offers huge
opportunities for our workers of different skills. It is the second
largest country in the world, is rich in mineral resources, and has
an aging population. It is likewise a multi-cultural society and
generally gives immigrants and expatriate workers rights and
privileges that are enjoyed by its citizens. From these attributes
of the country, one conclusion can readily be drawn: Canada
will continue to open its doors to immigrants and expatriate
workers alike. In other words, it will be demographics rather
than economics which will dictate the country’s immigration and
temporary foreign workers’ policies.
We need, however, to do our share for us to be able to
maintain the market. We must be able to face up to the challenges
of the market. Among these is the need to simplify our rules
on recruitment and deployment. Canada for a long period of
time has been a deregulated market. The people involved in the
recruitment business find it hard to accept that there are rules
that they must now comply to recruit and deploy Filipino workers
to the country. Even those who are reasonable and intelligent
enough to accept the fact that the market has been regulated
find it hard to comprehend our rules and regulations. They are
considered too burdensome and are thus viewed as barriers to
the employment of our workers in Canada. There is need then to
simplify our rules to reflect the peculiarities of the market. On the other hand, probably because employers and
agencies are finding it hard to recruit workers in the Philippines
itself, many of them have resorted to recruiting Filipino workers
who are already working in other jurisdictions. The workers
recruited offshore appear to be the most vulnerable to exploitation
and abuse as reports that we have received tend to confirm.
POLO-Vancouver does not have control over these recruitment
activities and the challenge for both POLO and the POEA is how
to manage offshore recruitment such that the workers are amply
protected.
As well, Canada finds our educational system inadequate
notwithstanding the outstanding performance that our workers
who are currently working here have shown. It does not fully
recognize our graduates and professionals and our workers end
up doing jobs way below what they have trained for in colleges
and universities. In this area, the challenge is how to come out
with a system or mechanism that will allow the recognition of
our skilled workers and professionals such that when they are
recruited to work here, they will work as such skilled workers
and professionals and not just ordinary laborers and then get a
lower pay. The MOUs have a provision for “cooperation” in human
resource development. We should be able to exploit this and put
some teeth to it.
HOMESICK
by Cristy Lopez (Tutzicle)
Abroad, ito’y kataga na laging maririnig,
Sa maraming tao parati ng bukangbibig,
Dahil sa hirap ng buhay dito nasasandig,
Ang magtrabaho sa dayuhan di natin kapanalig.
Maraming hirap ang pagdaraanan,
Bago makarating sa bansang pupuntahan,
Di rin biro ang pera na dapat mong ilaan,
Kung baga sa negosyo dapat kang mamuhunan.
Ang kaunting kabuhayan na inaasahan,
Ipakikipagsapalaran, gagawing puhunan,
Upang pikit matang, mapagbigyang daan,
Pag-aabroad na inaasam asam.
Kapag dumating na sa bansang pupuntahan,
Kasabikan kagalakan pumupuno sa katauhan,
Inililibot ang paningin sa kapaligiran,
Nagbabakasakaling makatanaw ng kabayan..
Sa una araw pa lamang iyo ng madarama,
Kalungkuta’t pangungulila sa naiwang pamilya,
Datapwa’t mahirap ang ika’y mapag-isa,
Subalit kinailangan dahil may pangarap ka.
Pilit isusubsob ang sarili sa trabaho,
Upang pangungulila’y dagling malimutan mo,
Ngunit ang sitwasyon di mo mababago,
Kailangan mo na lamang pangatawanan ito.
Pagsapit ng oras ng pamamahinga,
Sa alanganing oras ay nakagising ka pa,
Pagod na katawan ay sumusuko na,
Ngunit ang diwa mo buhay na buhay pa.
Homesick daw ang tawag sa nararamdaman,
Kasabikang makapiling mga mahal na iniwan,
Matagal na panahon mong paglalabanan,
Ganitong damdamin para mapagtagumpayan.
Lahat ng hilahil na iyong binabata,
Isipin mo na lamang na ito’y kasama,
Mula ng umalis at pumirma ng kontrata,
Hay buhay! kay hirap talagang,.. kumita ng pera.
Kapag sa ibang bansa ay nagtrabaho ka,
Kailangan ang sarili ay ihahanda mo na,
Sapagkat ang homesick ay lagi raw kasama,
Kapamaraanan isipin upang ito’y makontra.
Ano man ang iyong kasariang dinadala,
Ikaw ay di ligtas sa ganitong problema,
Kung kaya marahil magisip-isip ka na,
Mabisang paraan para di ka mamroblema.
Magbasa-basa ka ng mga magasin,
FIM, pocket book No.1 sa akin,
Lahat ng pahina ay sulitin natin,
Upang ang homesick sa atin ay mabitin.
Maaari din naman na makipagkaibigan ka,
Kahit sa mga taong di mo pa nakikita,
Subalit kabayan pakaiingat ka,
Dahil may mga taong mapagsamantala.
Marami ring samahan na mapagpipilian,
Depende sa iyong kinahihiligan,
Videoke o disco pwede ring kilingan,
Siguradong aayon ang iyong katawan.
Ang makipagtextmate ay talamak na,
No.1 pantanggal ng homesick na nadarama,
Yun nga lamang kung minsan ay may problema,
Kapag inabuso mo?ubos ang ‘yong kita.
Pwede rin namang gawin mong libangan,
Ang iyong alaga matanda o bata man,
Ano man ang trabahong kinasasadlakan,
Nawa’y masumpungan ang kapanatagan.
Bakit nga ba ang homesick kapag naramdaman,
Sari-saring damdamin pupukaw sa kamalayan,
Kung minsan kapag ito’y di na makayanan,
Maaring maging dahilan, pagkasira ng katinuan.
Subalit kabayan pakaisipin mo,
Isa lamang salita ang homesick na ito,
Datapwa’t mahirap ang kalagayan mo,
Ang pasya’y nasa ‘yo para mapigilan ito.
Kung ating babalikan mga kaganapan,
Simula ng ikaw ay magpasyang lumisan,
Napakaraming balakid ang pinagadaanan,
Magpasalamat ka, kung ang lahat ng ito’y
nalagpasan.
Ano man ang iyong napiling libangan,
O ginawang sandata para mapaglabanan,
Walang karapatan ang kahit sino man,
Para ikaw ay kanilang husgahan.
Ang ganitong sitwasyon ay hindi basehan,
Upang sabi ko nga ay di ka husgahan,
Sapagkat marami ang napupulaan,
Dahil nga ang homesick ay di makayanan.
Isang paalala na lamang iiwan,
Sa lahat ng aking, mga kababayan,
Pagsikot-sikotin man ating kalooban,
Pamilyang iniwan ang piliing balikan.
featured Poems
The Magic Of Love
by Jovy O. Macalintal
LAWA & Sowers Charismatic Community
I’ve met you unexpectedly,
Believe each other undoubtedly;
Friendship blooms instantly,
Became love that grows deeply.
Frustrations, I met lots of them,
These made my life sorrowful;
Till I met you in surprise,
You made my life meaningful.
Strange it may seem,
Butit’s beyond human logic;
There is a magic,
That no one could unravel.
Faithfulness is what I long for,
Not to give chance to humiliations;
Your eyes is giving me assurance,
That you are worth loving for!
My Journey
by Fely “Bunso”S.Naoe
I started to walk from the mountain crest
Enthusiastic to passed through the wilderness
Tightly Struggled against horrible jungles
Neglecting those sharp-thorns that stab by my sole
A SAD REALITY
by Noel Gimikan
I followed the way of the river flow
Bare-footed walking over the meadow
Before me, bowed a very bright rainbow
As the tiny raindrops joined the sunglow
everyone tends to look for so much out of love
even blaming his faults to someone he loves
making it a reason to do something out of line
hoping to be happy yet pain he finds.
I rashly ran towards the arc of hope
Because they say that underneath is gold
I earnestly crave to reach the gold end
But why? Why I was always left behind
look around you and you’ll see what i’m trying to say
the way some of us act just to put the loneliness away
love is being destroyed by these actions being done
aren’t you afraid, you might lose your love ones.
I have crossed the valley, wrestled some flocks of owls
Fallen along the concrete roadsides, skipped the holes
The rainbow is fast-fading so I have to haste
Never mind the wound, never mind the thirst
give your loyalty to the person who really loves you
make him your reason to be strong, to put away the
blue
let him feel your love in anyway you can
you’ll find your true happiness from beginning to end.
I have even sailed in the endless ocean
Fought against the giant waves that bumped
My vessel have cracked and the wave strike me down
And I just let the swine to send me to the shore
act now, there’s still time for us to change
lets do something that will put us within the range
the range of being normal and away from insanity
away from temptations caused by loneliness and
money, LOVE YOUR FAMILY.
I spread my vision to look for the Arc
The arc has gone and in front of me is ash
The weary search is over and I lost my life
Now, I could hardly trace my passage back
Want to get your poems published? Share it with us.
You just might see your literary creation on this page. Send
all your poems by email to [email protected]
29
Laugh Lines . . .
Matalino Kuno
Isang umaga ipinakita ni tibo sa kanyang
ama ang kanyang grade sa card ng buong
pagyayabang.
Tibo: tay tingnan nyo yong grade ko ang
tataas flat 75 lahat ang subject ko.
Tay: ulol !!!!!!! pano mo nasabing
matataas yan eh konti na lang bagsak ka
na.
Tibo: kayo naman itay! di ba nyo alam na
puro half day lang yan,kung maghapon
yan tay tiyak na 150 yan!!!
Us Navy Vs Pinoy
Isang gabing umuulan at may bagyo, may
US Navy Ship na dumaraan sa northern
Philippines. Ganito ang conversation.
US Ship: Please divert your course 15
degrees to the north to avoid collision.
Pinoy: Recommend you divert your
course 15 degrees to the south to avoid
collision.
US Ship: This is the Captain of a US
Navy ship. I say again, divert YOUR
course.
Pinoy: Tang na mo. No, I say again,
divert YOUR course.
US Ship: (Galit na) This is the Aircraft
Carrier USS Eisenhower, the 2nd largest
ship in the US Navy. We’re accompanied
by 3 Cruisers 3 Destroyers, and numerous
vessels. I DEMAND that you change
your Course 15 Degrees North, or
COUNTERMEASURES WILL BE
UNDERTAKEN TO INSURE THE
SAFETY OF THIS SHIP!
Pinoy: (Cool na Cool) Okay, this the
lighthouse atop a Rocky Hill, gusto mo,
banggaan tayo!
Noon At Ngayon
Noon: ang mga matatanda bago
ikinakasal hinintay muna ang kabilogan
ng buwan bago ikinakasal..
Ngayon: hinihintay muna ang…
kabilogan ng tiyan bago ikinakasal..
Fujifoo
Isang Kanong Businessman ang pumunta
sa Japan. Unang gabi sa Hotel nag-hire
siya ng Local Hooker. Ng nasa kama na
sila, panay ang ang sigaw ng Haponesa,
Fujipoo!, Fujipoo!
Sabi ng Kano sa sarile, “Aba, talagang
mahusay pa rin ako sa kama at
nasisiyahan ang partner ko!!
Next day, nag laro ang Kano ng Golf
kasama ang Japanese counterpart. On
the third hole, naka “Hole-in-One”
ang Japanese. Para ma-impressed ang
kaniyang kleyente, sumigaw siya ng
30
“Fujifoo!, Fujifoo!!
Japanese: (Confused) “Anong ibig mong
sabihin na maling Butas”
Supot
Chris: Pare, sinabi mo daw sa syota ko na
supot ako?
Topher: Di yan totoo pare! Ang sinabi ko
lang, malapit ka ng tuliin..
Chris: Ah ok, akala ko binuko mo na ako
eh!
Halik
Isang gabi sa eskinita, napansin ni Pedro
ang isang seksing babaing naglalakad
mag-isa. Tinawag niya ang babae.
Pedro: Miss, babayaran kita ng P500.00
kung pweding mahalikan ang suso mo!
Miss: Bastos, gago ka ba at sabay
binilisan ang lakad. Habol din si Pedro.
Pedro: Miss, gagawin kung P1,000.00
basta makahalik sa suso mo.
Miss: Alam mo, hindi ako ganyang
klasing tao para tanggapin ang offer mo.
Pedro: Miss, huling offer, P5,000.00
Miss: Sa isang kondisyon, basta halik
lang sa suso. Punta sila sa isang sulok at
inilabas ang malaki at malusog na suso.
Sinunggaban agad ni Pedro ang dyoga,
sabay himas sa kaliwa at kaplog naman
doon sa kanan. Masaya si Pedro at medyo
nag-init na ng biglang nagsalita ang bebot.
Miss: Ano ba, hindi mo ba hahalikan ang
boobs ko?
Pedro: Gusto ko sana pero ang mahal
naman ng bayad!
Viagra/Viagmo
Kung ang Viagra ang nakapag-excite sa
mga lalaki, ano naman ang nakapagexcite sa Babae?
Sagot: Viagmo!
Bastos Daw
Tanong: Ano ang TITI KO?
ooppss...... hwag madumi ang isip mali
lang ang type ko... i mean.
Ano ang Titik O? e di bilog!
Deposit ... Sorry Bisaya Bata...
Teacher: Pedro, gamitin mo ang word na
deposit sa isang sentence.
Pedro: Deposit is leaking
Teacher: Hindi! I’ll give you a hint.
Deposit bank. Deposit bank. Gets mo na?
Pedro: Opo mam... Deposit in the bank is
leaking.
Tama Ba??
Ma’am: Pedro, giv me a sentence..
Pedro: Ma’am is beautiful, isn’t she?
Ma’am: very good!! pls translate in
tagalog..
Pedro: Si ma’am ay maganda, hindi
naman di ba?
Katawan Lang
Isang magasawa ang dumulog sa korte
para magpa-annul.
Judge: Ano ang dahilan para kayo
magpa-annul?
Babae : (Nagsalita habang nakayuko )
Your honor, katawan lang ang gusto niya
sa akin.
Judge : Anong pruweba mo?
Babae : (Nakayuko pa rin ) Tuwing nag
la-love-making kami tinatakpan niya ng
towel ang mukha ko.
Judge : Ikaw Mister bakit mo ginawa yun?
Mister : No comment your Honor. Just
see for yourself.
Misis: (Nagalit at ihinarap ang mukha sa
Judge ) See bastos talaga ang taong yan.
Judge : (Habang nakatingin kay Misis. )
Annulment petition granted. Ikaw naman
lalaki, bakit ngayon ka lang nagfile ng
annulment? Ang tiyaga mo.
Alitan ng Mag-asawa
Isang gabi, nag away ang mag-asawa.
Pag may konting alitan, hindi kikibuin
ni Misis ang asawa ng mga ilang araw.
Kinabukasan, maagang aalis ang Mister
dahil may business trip. Dahil sa ‘heavy
sleeper’ si Mister, palaging siyang
ginigising ng Misis tuwing umaga. Ng
pumunta ang Misis sa bathroom, nag
lagay siya ng ‘Note’ sa tabi ng unan ni
Misis: Please wake me up at 4:30 AM.
Next day, 7:30 AM na ng magising ang
lalaki. Galit na galit at hinanap ang asawa
para pagalitan ng may nakita rin siyang
‘Note’ sa ibabaw ng Table Lamp. Ang
Note: It’s 4:30 AM, GISING NA!
Cool Typo Trick
Aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at an Elingsh
uinervtisy, it deosn’t mttaer in waht
oredr the ltteers in a wrod are, the olny
iprmoetnt tihng is taht frist and lsat ltteer
is at the rghit pclae. The rset can be a toatl
mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit
porbelm. Tihs is bcuseae we do not raed
ervey lteter by itslef but the wrod as a
wlohe.
Share your Jokes
and put a smile
on someone’s face
today!
Uniwide Tai Po
Tel. 2650- 1283
Ndrei’s Crossing Ground Bar & Lounge
Shop 13 B G/F Kwan Yick Bldg.
444-452 Des Vouex Road West
Uniwide Tsuen Wan
Shop 1/F Liksang Plaza
Tsuen Wan N. T
Sikatz Philippine Product Store 1 & 2
1/F Liksang Plaza, Tsuen Wan, N.T.
and Mei Foo Sun Chuen
Available at the following outlets
Worldwide House Outlets
Shop 128 1/F Your Shoppe
Shop 134- 136 1/F Victory Shop
Shop 138 1/F Sun Fung Trading
Shop 125-126 Philippine Product Store
Shop 241- 2/F Royal Ventures
Shop 262 2/ F Little Divisoria
Shop 245 2/F Santiagos Alteration
Shop 246 2/F Annies Shop
Shop 369 3/F Kabayan Remittance
Shop 363 3/F Nelias Store
Shop 366-368 LBC Mabuhay Hkg.
Shop 350 3/F Mang Ambo
Shop 358 3/F Elegant Collections
Bayanihan Kennedy Town Centre
55 Victoria Road
Kennedy Town
Tseung Kwan O
Tel. 3194 5366
Uniwide Hunghom
Planet Square
Filipino Mart
C1 G/F Garland House
14A 14C North Point
Super Ace Cargo Macau
82 Rua Da Alfandega, Edificio Veng Leong Macau
Tel 2893 9473
Uniwide Maon Shan
Tel: 2631 5977
Uniwide Shatin
Tel. 2362 7925
Batangas Varsitarians HK Chapter
Inducts 1st set of Officers
Filipino Trading Co.
5/F Fai Man Bldg.
9- 13 Li Yuen St. West Central
Filmart 2
Shop 69 A,B,& C G/F
City Garden, Shopping Center
Blk 13 , 231- 233 Electric Road,
North Point
Novo Ecijano Macau
Heidi – 6616 5191
Uniwide Laguna Arcade Kowloon City
Tel. 2772 1829
Benzon Wine
Shop 3 G/F Yee Fat Mansion
Shim Woo Road, Happy Valley
Filmart 1
G 52 G/F, 7 Seas Shopping Center
121 King Road, Fortress Hill
Macau
Asia Pac Cargo Macau
42 Rua Da Alfandega
San Malou Macau S.A.R
Tel. 932610, 930443
Tel True Ltd.
1/F Lap Fai Bldg
Pottinger St. Central
Uniwide Hang Hau
by APG
The Batangas Varsitarian Chairman
Emeritus and former Batangas Governor
Armand Sanchez and Congressman Caloy
Bathan, Batangas Varsitarian Foundation
president graced the 1st Induction of Officers
of the Batangas Varsitarian Hong Kong
Chapter at the Function room of Seven Seas
Commercial Building in North Point on
April 4, 2009.
Vice President
(External Affairs )
Secratary
Treasurer
P. R. O.
Master Initiator
Benjamin D. Perez
Seargent-at-Arms
Sports Committee
Chairman
Sports Committee
Vice Chairmen
Advisers:
Efren Ordonia
Reynaldo Delgado Rogelio L. Gutierrez
Wilfredo L. Pagsanjan
Reynaldo M. Aguila Ricardo J. Mercado
Ian Rey M. Canta
Geronimo V. Guda
H & I Philippine Product Store
Shop 179-B Nan Fung Plaza
Tseung Kwan O, N.T.
JEM Employment Agency
Room 802 8/F Yat Fat Bldg.
44-46 Des Vouex Road Central
JEM Merchandise
15, 4/F Li Yuen St. West
2nd Alley-alley, Central
LBC Hunghom
Planet Square Hunghom Kowloon
LBC Tsuen Wan
Liksang Plaza Tseun Wan N.T
LEE Trading Co.
Shop 279, 2/F Liksang Plaza
Tsuen Wan, N.T.
Loy & Day Shop
Room 2013 2/F United Center
Admiralty
Lydias Store Kennedy Town
Shop 17 G/F Blk A Hoi Tao Bldg.
7-11 Belchers St. Kennedy Town
Manong & Manang Store
Shop 5 G/F Kwan Yick Bldg.
444-452 Des Vouex Road West
Among other guests were Engr. Melvin
Requino and his wife, Founding Adviser
of BV Singapore, Atty Estacio of Batangas,
AFreight Director Susan Lozano, Babes
Mercado, Julius Barcena and Mr. Fred
Valencia of Metro Bank, Arnold P. Grospe
of Friends Int’l Magazine, Calabarzon group
and other association leaders.
Cesar C. Aguado
Benito M. Tolentino
Richard V. Pepito
Master Joseph Bautista
Engr. Edwin Gutierrez
Mr. Enrique C. Baylosis
Mr. Noel Tenorio
Former Gov. Armand Sanchez donated
PHP100,000 as startup fund for the group’s
projects.
The new set of officers took their oath
before Labor Attache Romulo Salud. The
new officers are:
President
Vice President
(Internal Affairs)
Erwin M. Marqueses
Emiliano L. Punzalan 31
My Education.. My Contribution to the Future…
by Arnold P. Grospe
March and April are the graduation months in
our country. More than a week ago, my nephew
and nieces were some of those graduates at
the elementary and preparatory studies in
our province, San Jose City, Nueva Ecija.
While they were receiving their diplomas and
medals for academic excellence, I reminisced
the days when I was also going up on stage
and receiving the same when I was graduating
from Elementary school.
I was thrilled during the ceremony especially
because all of them received awards. Ivan
Norriel, the eldest son of my sister Noralie,
was the Salutatorian of the graduating class,.
Aside from being salutatorian, Ivan was also
a recipient of numerous awards such as best in
English sports writing, winner in mathematics
quiz bee in district and division level and has
represented their school in different academic
competitions in the province. He also passed
the full scholarship examination at the
Philippine Science High School in Pampanga
for his secondary education.
While her youngest
daughter Ivy who
is at Primary 3 was
also an awardee for
academic excellence.
My other nephew
Marroone
Jae
Bautista, son of my
sister Ma. Theresita
also received awards
for his academic
excellence and outstanding medals in
Mathematics and Science. John Thomas A
Paulino, the son of one of my favourite nieces
Dhet Dhet also graduated with honors in his
preparatory school graduation at the SILOAH
Learning Center.
I have always been inspired by what I learned
from my late father: that the best legacy a parent
can give a child is an excellent education.
I’ve lived with that credo all my life. In fact,
I have always encouraged my son Aljon and
daughter Alyssa who are also performing good
in their studies here in Hong Kong to continue
and maintain their good study habits and
discipline to accomplish great things, we must
not only act, but also dream, not only plan, but
32
also believe in what we can do for us to have a
good future as our good education is our key
to success.
During the ceremony, I was amazed and
delighted with the performances of the kids
in their presentation and even the masters
of ceremony were selected kindergarten
graduating students namely: Joanne M.
Tariga, Ma. Katarina I. Villamante and Thrisa
Anne F. Jimenez, who are really talented and
very fluent in English as they introduced their
guests and called on their fellow graduates.
Almost three decades ago at my own
elementary school graduation, I think I hardly
paid attention to what the speaker said, but
this time I was inspired by young and talented
commencement speaker, Ms. Sophia Regina
M. Dedace, with her short, sweet, interesting
and meaningful message for the young
graduates as well as the Inspirational message
of Ms. Joy Anne R. Sablay during the nursery
graduations
textbooks, but rather from the people who
came and went, and left very special footprints
in my heart.
My Congratulations to the Class Valedictorian
Jamielyn S, Galleno and all the graduates of
Mt. Carmel Montessori Center.
I wish to congratulate you – the graduates,
with special mention to the honor graduates
- for this defining moment in your life. Your
long and arduous journey - burning the
midnight oil amidst all kinds of personal and
financial problems - has finally brought you
to this triumph, your graduation ceremony in
this 18th year of the Mt. Carmel Montessori
Center. This day will remain etched in your
memory for the rest of your life. It marked the end of getting up in the mornings
to put black -and-white uniforms. I got up every
morning for at least a third of my life to wear
that uniform. It marked the end of recess and
snacks in the canteen or seated on the floor in
the covered courts, huddled together in our
groups sharing stories, carefree and laughing.
“Graduation day was the end of many things
for many of us but, true to its meaning,
commencement day was truly the beginning, for
the end of our high school years was indeed
the beginning of so much more. With all due
respect to all beloved teachers I want to let
you know that the most important lessons I
learned in life did not come from any of my
Taurus (Apr 19 – May 20) You are inclined to be
aggressive and hot tempered now, particularly when
it feels like you aren’t getting your way. You can be
impatient and behave in an impulsive, irritable way
which makes you more prone to accidents during this
period, so be careful, both for yourself and others!
Lucky Numbers: 1, 14, 22, 24, 29 & 48 ; Lucky Color:
Red
Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 19) Sex and money count
for plenty now, maybe a little too much. Wanting
something or someone seems to take on special
importance for you, just take caution because it
may even be obsession. Try to distinguish between
wants, needs, and obsessive desire before making
a move on anyone. Lucky Numbers: 7, 2,6, 9 ,12
& 21. Lucky Color: Blue
Aquarius (Jan 20 – Feb 18) This is an excellent
time for personal relationships and friendships.
You are able to share feelings, interests, and
concerns openly and honestly with others.
You can see connections and possibilities you
may have overlooked before. Now is a time for
communicating and sharing your plans and
dreams. Lucky Numbers: 3, 8, 18, 29, 31, & 42:
Lucky Color: Green
Capricorn (Dec 21 – Jan 19) Your relationships
are especially affectionate and friendly at this
time, and you may benefit socially or materially
through an opportunity offered to you by a friend.
This is a good time for parties, social gatherings,
and other pleasurable activities. Lucky Numbers:
5, 12, 23, 35, 37, & 44; Lucky Color: Yellow
This is your special day - so celebrate this great
achievement you have earned through toil,
tears and sweat. Savor this rite of passage,
which is one of the great milestones in your
life. As I was seated in front watching and taking
pictures as they marched in, I am reminded
of the same day, 27 years ago, when we, too,
marched down our school campus, relieved,
excited and hopeful. I remember feeling like we
had come to the end of something. For many
of us, it was the end of an almost 9 -year stay
including our preparatory and kindergarten
years at a place that was, in many ways, our
second home, so it truly felt like we were
leaving the nest.
H ORO S C O P E
Special thanks to
the school teachers,
faculty members
and to their director
and president, my
former colleague in
LBC Mr. Benmar
Miniano
and
his wife Chona.
Madam
Marites
Dorado and her
husband Ruben and Rev. Danilo Fernando
of SILOAH Learning center in their vital role
in the development and advancement of the
students in preparation for their next journey
in pursuing their dreams and making them
ready to be the leaders of tomorrow.
Scorpio (Oct 24 – Nov 22) There is possibility
of a short travel early in the week to see an
Mind Games
by Kuya Willy
Anagrams
... alamin ang iyong kapalaran
ailing friend or attend to the affairs of an elderly
relative. You may also make some purchase of a
gadget for the home to increase convenience and
comfort. For some inexplicable reason you may
feel pessimistic and go into depression which you
should avoid. Lucky Number: 4,9,16, 18, 24 and
37; Lucky Color: Pink
Virgo (Aug 23 – Sep 22) Basically you are not the
emotional type but right now you may be under
some stress in your partnership or sentimental
relationships. This could make you emotional,
seek temporary diversions, entertainment and
even indulge in gambling and games of chance
which you should avoid. Younger members at
home may cause some anxiety. Lucky Numbers:
2,8,17, 28,32,& 40; Lucky Color: Orange
Leo (Jul 23 – Aug 22) You have the chance to
succeed in a business venture or transaction
for which you have been working for some
time. While income matters will be satisfactory
there is need for you to organise your resources
and expenditure as new responsibilities you
undertake now may increase your expenditure
in the next few months upsetting your budget.
Lucky Numbers: 6, 11, 13,20, 36, & 47; Lucky
Color: Violet
Cancer (Jun 22 – Jul 22) Happiness and a desire
to share your good fortune and joy with others is
the mood now. As long as you don’t overextend
yourself, this is a good time to indulge your
feelings of kindness towards others and also to be
kind and indulgent to yourself.Lucky Numbers:
9, 18, 22, 35, 47 & 48 ; Lucky Color: Brown
Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 23) Domestic relationships
should not be taken for granted. You need to
constantly support them by suitable words and
deeds. Plan outings, buy some presents and make
members of the family, particularly life partner,
feel that you love and care. Health affairs need
attention and particularly take care of the stomach
and liver functions. Lucky Numbers: 10, 12, 14,
27, 38 and 44 Lucky Color: Yellow Green
Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21) Your need for
emotional comfort is likely to grow during this
period. You’re at a place where you need to
affirm the emotional depth of your most intimate
relationship. Set extra time aside to spend with
your mate exploring your love for each other.
Lucky Numbers: 11, 17, 23, 32, 45, & 47. Lucky
Color: Maroon
Sagitarius (Nov 23 – Dec 21) Directions begun
today can be the start of great friendships that
bring both wealth and love. The energy of love
and desire allows for all sorts of pleasantries and
can provide the foundations of lots more like it to
come, if you allow it to happen. Lucky Numbers:
8, 10, 11, 29, 34, 40 & 43. Lucky Color: Sky
Blue
Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20) The cold and indifferent
situation prevailing in your relationship with the
opposite sex, life partner should not make you
indifferent to organizing material affairs such as
income and savings. This is the time to review all
financial matters connected to the family and plan
for the coming year. There are better prospects if
you plan ahead. Lucky Numbers: 14, 23, 34, 36,
43, & 46: Lucky Color: Gray
Scrabble
Can you guess the
highest scoring word?
(enter row and column place of first tile)
Rearrange the letters to form the correct
word(s) or phrase. Clue: Easter Terms.
1mad play sun
Row
Enter as many high scoring
words as you can.
____
______
2had sewn yes ad
___
_________
1
3void no fads
___
__
_____
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
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J
K
L
M
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P
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V
I
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A
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G
E
L
S
A
N
G
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N
A
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Z
E
S
3
A
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A
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4
D
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5
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7
S
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8
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A
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9
E
L
E
A
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A
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A
V
Y
I
A
E
E
B
S
R
N
10
I
R
T
L
D
S
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S
T
M
A
A
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L
O
11
S
E
I
P
A
A
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I
A
N
A
Z
A
V
A
E
E
S
12
S
V
S
E
I
L
A
D
S
N
N
N
R
S
G
G
I
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13
A
E
A
I
L
Z
S
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A
A
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L
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14
S
P
S
S
L
S
O
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N
M
S
H
G
V
D
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15
G
S
A
Y
L
A
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A
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E
D
I
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G
A
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G
16
S
L
A
I
R
A
A
T
A
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I
A
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L
B
E
A
17
O
S
T
A
M
D
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18
L
D
S
A
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B
A
D
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S
O
E
(F10, NE) sunflower
(M10, S) marigold
(B13, N) everlasting
(E10, NW) daisy
(M12, SW) rose
(K8, W) poinsettia
(G3, SW) salvia
(M4, SW) dahlia
Column
Row
Column
Row
Column
Row
Column
Row
Column
3
1. Burnham Park 2. Mines View 3. Mansion House
2
Row
2
Last Month’s Answers:
1
Column
I
(O16, NW) begonnias
(F4, S) azaleas
(F6, SW) asters
(L8, NW) lilies
Last Month’s Winner: Ms. Glaiza Ignacio, Tsing Yi, N.T.
4
5
Contest Guidelines
Submit your answers. Winners will receive one year FREE membership and subscription of
Friends International Magazine.
1
2
3
4
Always remember to include your complete name, contact number and address for
entries to be considered valid
Write legibly
Mail entries (cut this half page) to Friends International Magazine
Mark “Mind Games” on envelope
Names of winners will be published in the next issue.
33
Birthday Corner / Just for Kids / Parties
Alana Labro’s 3rd Birthday - Mar 29
Roy Mabalot - Apr 4 w/ sister Jo and
friends
Louise Vas - Apr 19 ;
Racquel Fausto - Apr 11
Brian Chua (top row, 2nd from left)
Apr 3
Annabelle Aabalboro - Jul 23 ;
Elena Mar -18
Emmalyn Beltran - Apr 29 ;
Edz Jamaicah - Jan 10
Birthday Greetings
Donna Talabucon
Hermi Talabucon
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Transcription

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