YEAR 13, No. 2 AUGUST 2009 Home Paper of the 1999 Canadian Ethnic Journalists’ and Writers’ Club Winner for Best Editorial Toronto, Ontario

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INSIDEINSIDEOoops & Bloops

No No royalties;royalties;

no 606no 606- 7- 7

TORONTONIANS JOIN FILIPINO-CANADIAN COMMUNITY

Easily placed by Yonge-Dundas Square officials at 13,000 per day, the come-and-go diverse Filipinos Making Waves Festival visitors and audience (above) enjoy the equally diverse repertoire of Filipino and contemporay songs, dances and music offered by gifted community talents and their guests; as human and digital eyes (below) record memories of the Aug. 15 and 16 free event. Photos by NOLI GUMAPAC through FMWF.

“Wazz up?”“What’s this?”“Who are those?”These three guys of non-Filipino ancestry, after being told that what

they were into was a Filipino community festival and those on stage were Filipino community talents and their guest-kababayans, exclaimed:

“Unbelievable!”“Amazing!”“Really?!”

Making HistoryThe Filipinos Making Waves Festival (FMWF) at Yonge-Dundas Square

on August 15 and 16 might have engraved itself in the pages of Toronto’s cultural and entertainment history by being the first of its kind in the community to have been staged at the square.

It might have made history for having temporarily closed to traffic a segment of Yonge St. for a short community parade, made culturally significant, educational and inspiring by three groups in tribal wear and gear representing indigenous peoples of the Philippines’ major islands of Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao.

(To page 3)

By BUTCH DG. GALICIA

MAKE WAVESMAKE WAVESAT YONGE-DUNDAS SQUAREAT YONGE-DUNDAS SQUARE

DarnaDarnafliesflieshighhigh- - 3838

KapusoKapusoexperience - 12experience - 12

Filipinos rule Filipinos rule NCM fest - NCM fest - 12 12

2 MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009

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3MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009

But beyond first-ever records, the two-day free and ticketless FMWF had proven itself effective in bridging a big number of people of non-Filipino origins to an introductory, if not deeper, appreciation of Philippine arts and culture through music.

In some way, the two-day festival helped shatter ethno-cultural barriers and invoked recognition and acceptance of what Filipinos and their children born in Canada are and what they could do and could be in the field of raw and uninhibited public entertainment, especially at Toronto’s premiere open-air public stage at the square.

Those who understood, believed in and supported the festival’s concept would long remember it as having built and realized dreams, as it opened doors of opportunity for young and aspiring talents who showed they had the heart and soul to sing, dance and play instruments with confidence and passion on a stage set before an audience of various cultural backgrounds.

(Yonge-Dundas Square officials easily placed at 13,000 per day the number of people who came and went at the festival site.)

Upbeat performersA case in point was nine-

year old Jheo Navarro, the youngest in the group of carefully selected and well-rehearsed cast, who took to heart MacArthur’s Park; Edessa Andrada, 10, who belted Whitney and Celine

selections like no other and reportedly received post-performance raves from non-Filipinos; Teresa Panaligan, 12, whose vocal prowess showed why she deserved to be Toronto champ of Kuya Germs’ singer-star search; and Hamilton youngster RJ

Lingao-Lingao who crooned Mack The Knife with gusto reminiscent of the 50s.

Jiva Andola, who had her first solo concert under Mentor Productions Inc. at the same stage where R&B diva Beyonce Knowles performed on in September

2006, sweated it out with the Sunday mid-afternoon crowd, adding heat to what King Sun’s plus 30 mercury rise could muster.

Andola’s version of Pers Lab and Can’t Get Enough gave justice to both original compositions of FMWF musical director Mon Torralba, a member of Philippine 70s band, The Hotdogs.

Jeanette Ricasio’s set that had Isang Mundo, Isang Awit and Bonggahan featured along with a couple of English melodies provided a fitting opening act to Germany-based vocalist Maloy Lozanes, who showed the range of her disco-oriented pipes ala Gloria Gaynor etal.

Like Jiva, local Talakan-tahan winners Ivy Joy, Jessica Joy and Ian Nillas - in either solo or joint outings – raised the roof and the mid-aft heat with Original Pilipino Music, pop and reggae sounds. Their FMWF debut was co-produced with Talakayan Radio.

Not to be underrated were the performances of R&B singer Kristine Subido, hip-hopper The Real AJM, balladeer Rommel Billanes who held the Filipino Centre Toronto (FCT) 2009 Filipino Idol crown, Mike Miranda who introduced the modern balagtasan through music in

spoken words, and FMWF back-up vocalist cum soloist Genevieve Alejandro with guitarist Brandon Torralba.

Zena ‘Lady Elvis’ Zagala, perhaps the most mature among the mike holders, showed her glowing golden spirit as she impersonated The King in gay abandon.

Most of the homegrown talents received assistance from back-up vocalists Tristan Torralba, Genevieve Alejandro, Gena Baldivia and Chyrelle Samson and live band members Mon Torralba on lead guitar; Natu Buzon, bass; Mike Ombao, keyboard; Jun Vidal, Don Lunaria and Terry Martell, alternating on drums.

Bustos on lifeBut respected among the

powerhouse array of FMWF performers was Mikey Bustos, who had evolved into a Canadian mainstream performer, shortly after copping 8th spot in the inaugural Canadian Idol Reality TV series in 2001.

Bustos showed he could fill the stage as he moved with his dance crew in an opening number, then sang his latest CD selections depicting his love for music and life and several standard tunes that time turned into classics.

Ethnic to rock soundsInspired to be the best in

Torontonians join Filipinos make waves ...(From page 1)

GABE BONDOC, LEEJAY ABUCAYAN, PASSION

ANGELO PIZZARO BOY KATINDIG

(To page 4)

PHOTOS BY NOLI GUMAPAC

thru FMWF

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Then there were world-acclaimed Filipino instru-mentalists who joined the all-Ontario cast of performers: Seattle-based guitar virtuoso Angelo Pizarro and Las Vegas-based jazz master and keyboardist Boy Katindig and saxophonist Danilo Dandan who gave classic, pop and jazz enthusiasts in the crowd their fill.

Both Pizarro and Katindig have become festival mainstays, having performed at the FMWF’s 2007 and 2008 stagings.

The attraction of the California-based GLP (Gabe Bondoc, LeeJay Abucayan and Passion) kept a swarm of fans raving, swooning and clicking digital cameras until GLP’s last number that closed their hourlong set and the festival’s Saturday sked.

Of the three, Passion had appeared at the 2007 FMWF outing at the Harbourfront.

Ethnic paradeThe Sunday parade

from Gerrard to Dundas streets along Yonge St. equally afforded pedestrians enjoying an ideal summer weekend a glance of Philippine ethnicity.

Toronto’s Benguet-Ifugao-Baguio-Apayao-Kalinga group was in full native regalia.

To the beat of a gong and steps inspired by the traditional cañao ritual, the reps from northern Philippines marched, proudly proclaiming themselves as a people who gave life to the world wonder Banaue Rice Terraces.

Highlighting the reli-gious ways of central Philippines were members of the Ontario Arts Council-supported Panay Island Dancers of the Kababayan Community Centre and the Ati-Atihan performers of the United Aklanon Association of Toronto who drew the attention of a typical Yonge St. weekend crowd with their colorful costumes and drumbeat moves.

Representing southern Philippines, the Kayumanggi Dance Troupe awed onlookers with their Muslim Mindanao-inspired attires.

At the parade was a cross-section of community groups, among them the Pillars, the United Filipino Seniors Association of Hamilton and the Asian Canadian Dancers, the Hamilton Pilipino Dancers, the Knights of Rizal, Kababaihang Rizalista, the Filipino Aspirations of Rizal, the Ladies of FMWF and a TTC-FMWF contingent.

what they loved to do, youth groups representing various musical genres went onstage at performance level.

To the rhythm of Mindanao’s indigenous kulintang, gong and drums, Santa Guerilla aired their music that had contemporary undertones and messages.

R&B, and hip hop groups Barkadaz and Crewzing simply did what had to be done, at their level best.

Undaunted were youth rock bands Cast of Angels, Out of Luck and Cosmic Rayons, all regulars at Mississauga’s Minerva Studios, and of Mississauga-based Mayday in what someone called as an “electrifying showdown.”

Folk to hip-hopThe festival, however,

was never all about singing.Given equal time and

exposure were the dancing prowess of the FCT Kayumanggi Dancers who donned Filipino native wear and swayed to Filipino folk music, the Hip Sync Hula dancers who provided a view of tropical body movements, and the multicultural crews of the Bella Divas and the Rascals who set eyes and bodies in motion with their fast-paced hip-hop steps.

Waves from the U.S.A.

Torontonians join Filipinos make waves(From page 3)

Samantha Amog, in a Filipino terno, walked alongside an oversized Philippine flag donated by Philippine Ambassador to Ottawa Jose Brillantes.

The Toronto Police Service (TPS) Ceremonial Unit -- bearing the Canadian, Philippine, and TPS colors - secured the front and rear of

the parade. People behind FMWFFestival alternating

hosts included Deo Moreno, Samantha Amog, Jeanette Ricasio, Monica Carlos and Roman Carretas.

Officials of Focus Philippines who made the festival possible are Ruby Amog, marketplace

and booth director; Mon Torralba, entertainment and musical director; Rodney Ronquillo, stage director, Sonny Amog, finance director; and Jojo Taduran, external affairs and special projects director.

Festival director Teresa Torralba took time to thank volunteers; the food, arts and merchandise booth operators; and the sponsors.

Torralba said she is looking forward to seeing everyone at the 4th Filipinos Making Waves Festival at the Yonge-Dundas Square on August 14 and 15, 2010.

Bolder step There were a few vocal,

tonal and technical kinks even an untrained ear could catch; but these were made to pass by an awestruck audience.

Yet, if there was something to be proud of, it was the glaring fact that Philippine arts, culture and music took a bolder step to be freely seen and publicly experienced, despite the great odds.

Filipinos have shown their friends and neighbors that they too could sing, dance, play topnotch music and parade their heritage; that they could be a potent force to bridge understanding and interdependence between and among Ontarians. With FMWF PR

MALOY LOZANES DANNY DANDAN

MIKEY BUSTOS and DANCE CREW

5MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009

6 MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009 newsnews

Caregivers in Toronto and nearby areas fi nally have a place to call their own.

The Juana Tejada Lounge, a drop-in center named after the late Filipina whose courageous battle with cancer and potential deportation led to a campaign for a much-needed reform in the Canadian Live-In Caregiver Program (LCP), opened its doors on July 26.

The facility operated by the Catholic Church-based outreach organization Grassroots Hub (G-Hub) at the Our Lady of Assumption Church on Bathurst St. essentially provides a meeting place for nannies and caregivers who seek respite from their enormous daily chores. The use of its facilities and services are free of charge.

At the northern wing of the church, the lounge has a carpeted room furnished with simple but comfortable furniture, six Internet-ready computers, and a television set with local cable service as well as Filipino entertainment channels.

“One purpose is to connect these caregivers with their families with the

use of the Internet, e-mail or instant messaging such as Chickatext and provide them television entertainment with Filipino channels,” said Fr. Ben Ebcas, director of the Archdiocesan Filipino Catholic Mission G-Hub executive head.

Fr. Ben said that while the center’s amenities were very humble, it would prove effective means in providing caregivers a friendly environment where they could relax, talk openly and be themselves

during the short hours of their weekend days off.

He said that making available to caregivers a friendly place where they could spend leisure time, was a solution to the problem of loneliness and isolation among caregivers especially those who are very new to Canada and do not have families, friends or relatives.

The lounge will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sundays.

There will be a staff from

the church and the G-Hub to assist lounge visitors.

Caregivers are also encouraged to volunteer at the center.

Fr. Ben hoped the lounge could soon extend its services to clients to include life skills training, spiritual seminars and other desirable programs and activities that would meet the needs of the caregivers.

An initial focus group survey with caregiver participants was conducted during the open house. PR

Fr. Ben Ebcas explains the rationale behind the establishment of the Juana Tejada Lounge for caregivers. PR Photo

Juana Tejada lounge opensTwo Filipino fi lms - Independencia and If I Knew

What You Said - will be featured in this year’s Toronto International Film Festival.

Independencia will be shown on Sept. 12, 12:45 to 2:02 p.m.; Sept. 13, 6:15 to 7:32 p.m.; and Sept. 17, 7 to 8:17 p.m.

If I Knew What You Said will be featured on Sept. 11, 3:30 to 4:58 p.m.; Sept. 13, 4:30 to 5:58 p.m.; Sept. 19, 11 a.m. to 12:28 p.m.

Movie lovers, enthusiasts and patrons are invited to view and experience the movies.

Meanwhile, multi-awarded artist Imelda Cajipe Endaya will stage a one-woman exhibit - Stitching Paint Into Collage - at the Kalayaan Cultural Community Centre in Mississauga from Oct. 9 to 16.

Stitching paint into collage, the exhibit, examines issues of cultural identity and the ironies of women’s social spaces.

It gives a glimpse of the diverse ways in which Endaya has trekked an artistic path from a Filipina’s point of view.

She has made a strong presence into the world of contemporary Asia-Pacifi c art.

Endaya has received several arts awards from the Philippines.

In 2009, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, honored her with the Ani ng Dangal trophy as one of the Filipino artists currently reaping international recognition.

Her works are in the permanent collections of the Fukuoka Art Museum, Okinawa Art Museum, The Singapore Art Museum, Metropolitan Museum of Manila, and Philippine National Museum.

She recently won the Irwin and Florence Zlowe Memorial Art Award from the American Society of Contemporary Artists in New.

Stitching Paint into Collage, the book, brings together six essays by art critics about Endaya’s artworks and the culture that nurtured her art. From Press Releases of the Philippine Consulate in Toronto

2 Filipino films in TIFF;Endaya in art exhibit

ACE ALVAREZ

No royalties to pay,no 606 subscription

7VIEWSVIEWSMANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009

Borrowed items for this corner; and no royalties to pay!

Coming home one day from grocery shopping, my wife addressed me, saying: “I bought you your favorites: “Tome” Portuguese sardines, canned beef stew, those “Ligo” sardines in tomato sauce, etc.”

My son commented: “Oh, Daddy’s idea of fi ne dining.”

***Conversation with

Abbey – my fi ve-year old granddaughter:

Ace: “So, Abbey, you will be in Senior K in September?”

Abbey: “No, I won’t be going back to school. I plan to stay home this time.”

Uncle Christian whispers to himself: “Oh, my dearest niece. Only in Senior K and already a drop-out.”

***An entry from my good friend

Bill Andersen – former Toronto ad agency art director and promotions man, in his blogsite, ripple.ca: “A Toronto Star article quotes Daniela Trifunovic-Mavromihelakis about

something or other. I never got past the name.”

***Having seen many of Bill

Andersen’s work, he is one great photographer. Here’s an August 4 entry in his site: “After 39 days without garbage pick up, this (see photo on right) qualifi es as a pretty picture. Strike is over, unions won.”

***Here’s another entry on Bill

Andersen’s site: The public library lists one of its latest purchases: “The complete idiot’s guide to bipolar disorder. (cover of book in photo)

“Now, I know that there’s nothing funny about bipolar disorder. It’s a serious illness that can be fatal. I guess it’s the Idiot’s part that gets me.

“And who is that pensive girl on the cover? An idiot? A victim of bipolar disorder?”

***Further entry spoke of

Bill’s Uncle Paul from Windsor, Ontario: “Uncle Paul (Chico Pajo) was a familiar sight on the streets of Windsor. He walked everywhere.

“Long before there were Bluetooth headsets, friends

spotted him strolling along and thought they’d give him the gears. ‘Hey, Paul! Are you talking to yourself?’.”

Came Paul’s reply, “What are you, stupid? Do you see anyone else?”

***At the PIDC Mabuhay

Festival’s press conference for GMA artists at Casa Manla, Thursday, July 16:

Philippine Press Club-Ontario fi rst lady, Myrna Soriano to entertainer Josie de Leon: “How’s

your TV program going?”Josie de Leon: “I don’t know.

I don’t have a subscription to Channel 606.”

Nadisgrasya na!***

My little confession: Entries above from Bill Andersen saved me the trouble of thinking deeper how to fi ll out the space reserved for “Ooops and Bloops”; and no royalties to pay, eh!”

***Meanwhile, here are a few

items from Los Banos, Laguna-based newsman Ramon Bernardo from his regular dispatches via e-mail of Filipino humor:

SA BAKERY Pulubi: Palimos po ng cake.Ale: Aba, sosyal ka ah!

Namalimos ka lang, gusto mo pang cake .. eto pandesal!

Pulubi: Duh! Ate?! Bday ko kasi today?!?

Boy: Wala akong kwentang anak para sa inyo! Lahat ng ginagawa ko puro mali! Lagi na lang ako mali! ‘Di ‘nyo na ako mahal!

Ama: Nagkakamali ka, anak.Boy: See! Mali na naman

ako!!!

Nanay: Ang lakas mo kumain pero ‘di ka mautusan. Ang kapal mo!

Anak: Kapag yung baboy natin malakas kumain, natutuwa ka. Sino ba talaga ang anak mo, ako o yung baboy? Umayos ka

ABBEY

GARBAGE TRUCK

IDIOT’S GUIDE

(To page 10)

Managing EditorACE ALVAREZ

EditorBUTCH GALICIA

Associate EditorGIE ALVAREZ

Contributing EditorsBen Viccari

Ricky CaluenMag Cruz HatolGrace P. FreiresManny FreiresPete LacabaMel Tobias

Editorial AssistantsLennart Leigh Alvarez-Mahoney

Dods Andrada

ContributorsEva Agpaoa

Mario DimainNoel PeradaLarry TorresEdwin AcunaBien Garcia

Jeannie Pilapil

Account ExecutiveMYRNA SORIANO

GraphicsIDTech Solutions

416-875-2541

projects@idtechsolutuionsnetwork.com

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The Times They AreA Changin’

RoundaboutMAG CRUZ-HATOL

From TheMonitor’s Desk

ACE ALVAREZ

Indonesia shows theway with kids TV

8 VIEWSVIEWSMANILA MEDIA MONITOR

AUGUST 2009

12 years of dedicatedcommunity service

The Philippines boasts of 7,100 plus islands and a high literacy rate.

Indonesia beats us by 10,000 islands and a literacy rate that is higher in all aspects: functional, cultural and media-wise.

They have also beaten us in the public broadcasting system game.

While we are still debating over the merits of PBS and its usefulness to education, no thanks to mindless politicians, Indonesia resolutely and without fanfare launched their own PBS, joining the league of Japan, China, Singapore, Malaysia, America, Canada and much of Europe.

Gatot Budi Utomo is among Indonesia’s vanguards in PBS and is a staunch believer in using television for education.

Rather than making TV a likely adversary, which is what the recent Bantay TV movement of the Department of Education purports to do, Utomo and his colleagues have harnessed the power of the airwaves to make a difference in the lives of the archipelago’s 94 million children.

Virtually 39 percent of Indonesia’s 240 million population is under 18.

It made sense to Utomo and his colleagues to launch a PBS channel.

“Our children are known to watch fi ve hours of TV a day on the average,” Utomo explains, “and that translates to 1,820 hours of TV viewing a year.

On the other hand, Indonesian children attend only 1,000 hours of school yearly!”

Utomo has offered Anak TV help in shoring up interest in PBS by sharing his experience in Jakarta.

He is particularly proud of a program that he helps produce called Aku Anak Desa (I am a Villager Child) which like the Philippines’ Kabataan News

Network fi elds child reporters who fi le reports about their observations of happenings in their own hometowns and communities.

A country as diverse and widely spread like Indonesia faithfully pushes the one-language, one- nation idea and succeeds.

The TV show is another vehicle to foster that idea among children who are slowly being affected by too Western intrusion in their culture and daily lives brought about by unabated media usage.

Sometime in July, Indonesia staged a successful No TV Day to call attention to the importance of reading, socializing, sports

and pursuing other hobbies and pasttimes.

It was a colossal militant undertaking to stress upon children to accept that their lives should not be shaped by television alone.

The one day abstinence from television was supported even by TV networks and advertisers who unanimously agreed that banishing TV at least one day in children’s lives allows the kids to put their young lives in perspective.

It was a chance for Utomo to repeat to producers, directors and presenters all over the Indonesian archipelago what they should constantly remember when broadcasting for children.

Children are not expected to know that TV programs are constructions and communication strategies but they somehow have an idea how shows are made.

It also promotes respectful broadcasting to help children make sense of what they see.

Violence and sensationalism easily grab audiences’ attentions and must therefore be used sparingly and wisely.

Finally, all TV programs have an underlying economic purpose but children are not full fl edged consumers so why hit on them?

At a gathering of friends celebrating the 60th birth anniversary celebration of Oswald Tugadi -- vice president for membership of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce-Toronto (PCCT) at his residence Saturday, August 1st, Sylvia Nebres – wife of Philippine Chamber of Commerce-Toronto (PCCT) president Rafael Nebres commented during a conversation that morality among most Philippine government offi cials is so low, hence, the country does not see further development, sighing out, “What’s happening to this world?”

Indeed, “What’s happening to this world?”, and, as if by design later that afternoon, birthday celebrator Oswald Tugadi played in his system at his magnifi cent basement theatre a Leonardo Di Caprio starrer, “Blood Diamonds”, affi rming further the question of Mrs. Nebres.

The movie was a 2006 action/adventure co-produced and directed by Edward Zwick and, aside from DiCaprio, starred Jennifer Connelly and Djimon Hounsou.

The title refers to those diamonds mined in African war zones and sold to fi nance the confl icts and profi t the warlords and the diamond companies across the world.

The conversation continued.“It’s a societal cancer now,”

my wife Gie said.“The times are a changin’,

wrote Bob Dylan,” I commented, and suggested to call a doctor.

Bob Dylan’s most celebrated work dates back from the

(With apologies to Songwriter Bob Dylan for the title of this column)

1960s. Dylan is described as an

informal chronicler and a reluctant fi gurehead of social unrest expressed through the lyrics of his songs.

From among Oswald Tugadi’s guests – who included extended family members and friends from the PCCT, namely Paeng Nebres, Flor Vendiola, Lino Sabilano, and those from the media, freelance photographer Ariel Ramos and Little Manila Confi dential publisher Joey Baking -- somebody phoned for a doctor.

Dyaran! In less than seven minutes following the tradition of most 911 calls, somebody is standing by the couple Oswald and Isa Tugadi’s front door.

“Who are you?” asked Oswald.

“Somebody phoned for a doctor. I’m the doctor!” the guy declared while his stethoscope hangs by his neck.

“Ahh, Oswald, don’t believe that guy. He’s a doctor, okay, but ... a spin doctor. I know him

very well,” I said.“Ace, since he’s already

here, let us listen to him.”“What have you got to cure

the societal cancer, doctor?”The spin doctor’s pitch:“Come gather ‘round

peopleWherever you roamAnd admit that the watersAround you have grownAnd accept it that soonYou’ll be drenched to the

bone.If your time to youIs worth savin’Then you better start

swimmin’Or you’ll sink like a stoneFor the times they are a-

changin’.”“And who caused the rising

waters,” I asked.“I did,” replied the spin

doctor.He continued:“Come writers and criticsWho prophesize with your

penAnd keep your eyes wideThe chance won’t come

againAnd don’t speak too soonFor the wheel’s still in spinAnd there’s no tellin’ whoThat it’s namin’.For the winner nowWill be later to loseFor the times they are a-

changin’.”“I’m certain, you got the

lyrics of Bob Dylan’s songs mixed up,” I said.

“It should be, ‘For the loser now, will be later to win’,” I corrected the spin doctor.

“Hey, I’m the spin doctor, so I spin it totally to be worth my fees!” he said, and continued …

“Come concert producers, and writers

Please heed the callDon’t stand in the

doorwayDon’t block up the hallFor he that gets hurtWill be he who has stalledThere’s a battle outsideAnd it is ragin’.It’ll soon shake your

windowsAnd rattle your wallsFor the times they are a-

changin’.”“Get out of here, you fool.

You changed Bob Dylan’s lyrics. Mag-aral ka pa; and do your craft with fi nesse, stupid!” I said, excusing myself from Oswald and Isa, and slammed the door on the face of the spin doctor.

“OF COURSE I HAVE TO CHANGE THE WORDINGS. I’M THE SPIN DOCTOR, REMEMBER?” we all heard him yelling outside.

“Beware of his lot, people,” I thought to myself.

TIFF opener will likelyupset creationists

CommentaryBEN VICCARI

9VIEWSVIEWSMANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009

A LOOK AT LAW AND ORDER

Youth in Policing

A brush with history(My 15 minutes of

fame with Tita Cory)

PerspectiveRICARDO J.S. CALUEN

So they fi nally laid her to rest - the Woman in Yellow, Icon of Democracy, national hero in the making.

Possibly Venerable or Blessed Corazon. Or simple Cory.

I will not pretend to add to the host of panegyrics written thus far. Cory’s niche in the psyche of the Filipino is secure.

But I’d like to share my own “Cory Story”.

Like most petit bourgeois oppositionists of the period (1983-1986), my affair with Cory started with

my joining JAJA (Justice for Aquino, Justice for All) in the aftermath of the Ninoy Aquino assassination in 1983.

A huge JAJA rally was held in Iligan City just before the Snap Elections of 1986.

Filing my report on the rally to the Kerima Polotan group of publications as provincial correspondent marked my initiation into national journalism.

I recall writing about the historic reunion that day among members of Lanao’s

oldest and respected fami-lies - both Muslims and Christians - who were otherwise divided by politics.

But now it was only the politics of opposition that was largely on their minds, their conscience pricked by the death on the tarmac of a man in white, now stirred into action by the woman in yellow who was going to address the thousands that converged at the Iligan City Grandstand.

Fast forward to 1986. The dictator has fl ed and Cory Aquino is now safely ensconced in her rightful place in Malacañang.

The President wants to make the rounds of the archipelago to thank the people for their support.

Iligan was the very fi rst provincial stop, if memory serves me right.

Monsignor Tony Suda-rio, then St. Michael’s Parish priest, had been tasked with assisting in the reception of the President.

And being a close friend of the Monsignor (I was

on the advisory council on parish affairs), I was going to get a very special assignment from Monsignor Tony.

Rewind to the pre-Snap Election days. The Catholic Church, thanks to the late Cardinal Sin, was very much involved in NAMFREL’s call for clean and honest elections (Sin’s “critical collaboration” with Marcos had reached its limits).

On the side, Salvador Laurel had conceded the leadership of the Opposition to Cory and had now campaigned throughout Mindanao for victory of the Opposition.

Through the interloc-king connections between the Archdiocese of Manila under Cardinal Sin and the Philippine Banking Corporation, which was owned by the Laurel Family, the local parish became involved.

Not to mention Msgr. Sudario’s close ties to the Badelles family, among the oldest political families

(To page 18)PRESIDENT CORAZON C. AQUINO

A total of 150 high school students took part in the 2009 Toronto Police Service (TPS) Ontario-funded Youth in Policing Initiative (YIPI) program, now on its fi fth year.

YIPI participants, aged 14 to 17, were paid $10.90 an hour to work alongside offi cers and civilian members in various TPS units. They began their tour on June 29 and completed the program on Aug. 21.

YIPI is designed to give students summer jobs, life skills and a chance to become ambassadors for the Service in their communities.

I am introducing two youngsters - Salcedo Alfonso Lim III and Bryan Franco - who took part in YIPI. Each has expressed a greater appreciation for the positive work experience at the Service.

They also leave with a greater understanding of the important work done by all Service members. We wish them the best in their future endeavors.

ALFONSO SALCEDO LIM III is from Scarborough and was posted at the Duty Desk at the Main Lobby of the Toronto Police Headquarters.

“I think that the YIPI Program is one of the best ways for youth and police officers can get closer to each other and take out the negative stereotypes that the youth heard about. And also to the police officers that even the youth can change their views because not all youth are troubled kids.”

“Carpe Diem, taught by my Religion/History teacher, means ‘Seize the day’. If an opportunity shows itself, go for it and don’t wait for it to come to you.”

BRYAN FRANCO is from Bathurst and Wilson area and worked in Community Mo-bilization Unit.

“The YIPI program provides a great op-portunity for youth throughout the city. In this program students are exposed to a work-place environment in which they apply their

By CONSTABLE PHILIP MENDOZACommunity Liaison Officer, Toronto Police Service

(To page 31)

The civic workers’ strikes in Windsor and Toronto have met with severe condemnations by citizens, according to polls taken during the strikes.

It may be safely assumed that some of these critics are themselves members of unions other than those representing the strikers.

In the interest of the residents of Ontario and visitors to the province the motives of the union leaders of the civic employee strikes can only be considered unpatriotic, anti-social and even subversive to democracy.

One can imagine with what zest Harrisite Tim Hudak and his Progressive (?) Conservatives, now the offi cial opposition in the Ontario Legislature, are slavering to use this recent example of “irresponsible use of power by unions” in the 2011 provincial election campaign.

Now is the time for all unions to recognize that in spite of the rosy forecasts of an improving future, Ontario has been in the grip of a recession and that low employment rates are expected to continue.

The voluntary cuts taken by auto workers’ unions shame those who fl aunt their power in such an autocratic manner as civic workers in Toronto and Windsor.

And let’s not forget the same goes for CEOs and their enormous compensation packages.

Also, let’s not forget that Toronto city councillors sent a challenge to CUPE when they permitted themselves a raise in salaries earlier this year.

Creeping fascism is abroad in this land as in many other countries and unless they recognize the need for all Canadians to pull together, CEOs and unions and politicians alike may one day wake up to fi nd their freedom gone in the name of “order.”

***As a Member

of the Order of Canada (CM) – a designation which recognizes a lifetime of distinguished service in or to a particular community, group or fi eld of activity -- Madeline Ziniak, national vice president of OMNI Television is cited for “her contributions as the major driving force behind the development and growth of multilingual and multicultural television in Canada.”

Madeline, already a member of the Order of Ontario is also

executive chair of the Canadian Ethnic Media Association (CEMA)

In these times, among the most irritating of media verbal overkill are the words “icon” and “iconic,” but with Madeline’s election to the Order one may legitimately and accurately append the word iconic to the achievement which has earned for her.

Madeline was feted by the Canadian Ethnic Media Association (CEMA) at a dinner on July 23rd by more than 80 guests among whom were Tony Viner, President and CEO, Rogers Media, Leslie A. Sole, Rogers Media Television and John Tory a former president and CEO, Rogers Cable.

Ontario cabinet minister Leslie Phillips a friend of CEMA since its founding was unable to attend but he forwarded a plaque of commendation from Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty.

***The Toronto International

Film Festival opening September 10 should be a timely visit to one of this century’s greatest

controversies.It’s the world

premiere of Creation, directed by Jon Amiel (The Core, Entrapment, The Man Who Knew Too Little).

Produced by Jeremy Thomas, the fi lm tells the life story of Charles Darwin starring Paul Bettany

(To page 31)

ZINIAK as Darwin and Jennifer Connelly as his wife,

Emma.“The tension between faith

and reason is prominent in contemporary culture and this intimate look at Darwin puts a human face on a man whose

Borrowed time

The 3rd EyeMARIO DIMAIN

10 VIEWSVIEWSMANILA MEDIA MONITOR

AUGUST 2009

OmertaBUTCH GALICIA

In the world of the liv-ing, the topic about dying is the most eluded subject of conversation.

The word death could easily spoil a rather fun-filled evening of socializing.

We are so huddled up in our own comfort zones that we decline to talk about it.

Is it because of its mor-bid connotation?

Or are we simply in de-nial?

Life is sweet. We love it too much; we forget that we are just living on borrowed time.

We can control how we live and choose a lifestyle that suits us, but we cannot deny the fact that we are all just passing through.

Sooner or later, the clock

of life will stop ticking and death will come knocking at the door.

What if you found out today that you only have three days to live?

Would you panic or calmly look back at how you lived?

Would you have some regrets that you were so caught up in having fun and you missed out on impor-tant issues in your life?

Would you cram every-thing you have taken for granted in the final three days of your life?

Or would you celebrate and give thanks to God for a very meaningful life?

In other words, how ready are you?

Yesterday, a very in-(To page 23)

‘nay! ‘Wag ganun!

BF : May ibibigay akong gift sa iyo, pero hulaan mo muna!

GF: Sige, clue naman...BF: Kailangan ito ng

leeg mo.GF: Kwintas?BF: Hindi ...

PANGHILOD!

(Sa loob ng Mall)Guy: Love, ‘yan ang

dati kong girlfriend.Jowa: Ang pangit-pangit

naman!Guy: Wala akong

magagawa, ‘yan talaga ang weakness ko ever since.

Judge: Ano ba talaga nangyari?

Erap: (‘di nagsasalita)Judge: Sumagot ka sa

tanong.Erap: Naman eh! ‘Kala

ko ba hearing lang to? Bakit may speaking?

Teacher: Okay class, our lesson for today is science. What is science?

Pedro: Ako ma’am! Ako ma’am!

Teacher: Okay Pedro! What is science?

Pedro: Science is our lesson for today.

Amo: Inday, paalisin mo nga yung pulubi sa labas ng bahay.

(nilabas ni Inday)Inday: Off you go!

Under no circumstance this house would relent to such unabashed display of

vagrant destitution!Pulubi: Oh! I’m so

ashamed! Such a mansion of social climbing freaks! (nakakuha na ng katapat si Inday!)

Bob: Nakakamagkano ka sa isang araw?

Pulubi: Nag-uumpisa kasi ako ng 8 a.m. Ngayon 9 a.m. na. Naka P80 na ko.

Bob: Hindi din masama, ‘no? Ano mabibili mo niyan?

Pulubi: Pwede na tong isang espresso macchiato sa Starbucks!

Mekaniko: Sir, hindi ko po naayos ang preno ng kotse n’yo.

Customer: Ha? Pano ‘yan?

Mekaniko: Nilakasan ko na lang po ang inyong busina! Happy trip na lang po!

Divorced father: Anak, pag-uwi mo, ibigay mo sa nanay mo itong cheke at sabihin mo 18 years old ka na. Huling cheke na makukuha niya for child support tapos tingnan mo kung ano ang expression ng face niya.

Anak: Mom, sabi ni dad bigay ko daw sa iyo itong cheke, last support na niya ito sa akin kasi 18 na ako. Pagkatapos tingnan ko daw expression ng face mo.

Mom: Sa susunod na pagbisita mo sa kanya, pakisabi salamat sa suporta, kahit ‘di mo siya tatay!

Pagkatapos tingnan mo ang expression ng face niya!

Boy: Dad, tulong naman sa assignment ko. Find the least common denominator daw.

Dad: Ha? Aba’y elementary pa lang ako eh hinahanap na nila yan ah! ‘Di pa ba nila nakikita?

Student: Ma’am, pagagalitan niyo po ba ako sa bagay na hindi ko naman ginawa?

Teacher: Natural hindi.Student: Good. ‘di ko po

ginawa assignment ko!

Sa kasalan …Pari: Sana ang donation

mo ay katumbas ng ganda ng pakakasalan mo.

Groom: Eto P5, father.Tiningnan ng pari ang

bride.Pari: Heto P4 sukli mo

iho..

Anak: ‘Nay, ano po ba yung 10 Commandments?

Nanay: ‘Yon ang sampung utos ng Diyos.

Anak: Higit pa pala kayong makapangyarihan sa Diyos eh!

Nanay: Bakit?Anak: Ang dami niyong

utos eh!***

There you go, readers! Borrowed items for this corner; and no royalties to pay!

Let’s go back to summer and what’s little left of it. Enjoy!

No royalties to pay, no 606 subscription(From page 7)

Out of the box

Chances are, I’d be watching Johnny Mathis live at Casino Rama.

It’s not for me to say, but like others, Johnny reminds me of Felicisimo Sr., my late father, who’d play waxed discs of Johnny or Frank or Nat or Tony or any of those Top 40 music chart busters to either annoy us kids or force us to our spaces on the banig when we still wanted to annoy our parents with a game of noisy It, Bulaga! at close to midnight.

If it was neither a 33-and-a-third for long-term ef-fects nor a quick 45, Daddy would turn the red transistor radio’s volume knob to the max to impress in us that the voices of Johnny and his peers could beat, any-time, the cacophony of our whines and protestations.

I have learned to like and love the music of eons ago, thanks to dad who always gave us a certain smile, that silly grin, after playing his prank on us.

But enough of reminisc-ing. We dutifully played along with him anyway.

Quite frankly, the prime reason that made me call for reservations for Johnny’s

show was because it was for free, like the dozen or so concerts of North American music icons I had seen at the casino.

***** Who doesn’t want big-

time popular entertainment freebies?

Free? Yes! That was the attraction that had made me get the family bundled up to see the Santa Claus Parade in downtown Toronto year-ly since we came to Canada in 2003.

Free? Yes! That could be the keyword for the en-during public acceptance and success of the Taste of the Danforth, the Caribana and other seasonal festivi-ties Toronto’s cultural com-munities have been offering the city’s diverse but curi-

ous mosaic.Free? Yes! This is op-

posed to first paying big bucks to ‘enter’ a cavernous room and get the ‘-tainment’ later, to one’s liking or not.

Believe it or not, if an entertainment show turns out a flak and for the ‘en-ter’ purposes alone, only the NO RETURN of a “No Return, No Exchange” tag will work.

Free? Yes! This would help people avoid feeling bad about breaking the bud-get in these hard times and keep producers away from lacing promos with a pinch of salted “proceeds would go to a worthy cause,” re-ally a lame excuse to rake in pocket change.

Free? Yes, if this means freedom of movement, un-

restricted entries and un-questioned exits; when peo-ple can opt to freely come, take a look and stay or go as they wish; when no one is set apart from the rest by

a temporary tattoo or a col-ored band.

*****But even if media pass-

es are given out by public relations agents, I seldom

RSVP to and accept invites.This aloofness, perhaps,

was influenced by bad, sometimes tragic, experi-ences in public roofed and

(To page 29)

MY GRANDDAUGH-TER’S BAPTISM. Baby Zoe Karel David-Gali-cia is christened at the Our Lady of Lourdes Church along Sher-bourne St. in Toronto on Aug. 8. Making Zoe’s baptism an affirmation of faith are members of her family (above) and her godfathers and godmothers (left).

11featurefeatureMANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009

DAGUPAN CITY - She could have tagged along nannies, household staff, security men and a host of orderlies but the in-terim First Lady of Timor Leste, a very respected fig-ure in the country where she came from, shrugged off all of these when she visited her home city, Dagupan, for a well-deserved vacation.

The wife of Fernando Lasama de Araujo, presi-dent of the National Par-liament of East Timor, the second highest man in the six-year old country, came home unnoticed with her only son Hadomi.

Unpretentious and with no penchant for expensive dresses and jewelry, the be-spectacled Jacqueline Aqui-no Siapno Lasama, better known as Joy, 41, visited Vice Mayor Belen Fernan-dez in her residence in Ba-rangay Lucao here, two days after she and Hadomi arrived in Dagupan by bus from Pasay City.

Wearing a black dress and tip-toeing on sandals,

East Timor interim First Lady Jacqueline Aquino Lasama (right), with five-year-old son Hadomi, talks to newsmen at the residence of Dagupan City Vice Mayor Belen Fernandez (left) in Barangay Lucao, Dagupan. Husband Fernando Lasama de Araujo, president of the East Timor National Parlia-ment, visited the Philippines late April. Photo: DING MICUA

No homecoming pomp forNo homecoming pomp forEast Timor’s ‘First Lady’ East Timor’s ‘First Lady’

By DING MICUA

she looked just like any or-dinary woman.

But aside from being the wife of the second most powerful man in East Timor, she has a very impressive credential, being a holder of a Ph.D. from Berkley Uni-versity in California.

She came with Hado-mi, mother Corona Varona

Aquino, a lawyer, and close relative Marlyn Manaois-Reyna, daughter of the late Dagupan City Mayor Cipri-ano Manaois, without any security, nanny for the boy, and a personal secretary for her, unlike in East Timor.

“I am very impressed and amazed about the change that was made since

I left in 1981,” said Joy, a political economist, who fluently spoke the Panga-sinan dialect and Tagalog, despite her 27 years of ab-sence.

She said East Timor is a young country, having gained its independence only in 2002, without any mall and supermarket, add-

ing that when her mom went there, she compared Deli (capital of East Timor) to Dagupan about 40 years ago.

But she said East Timor is a very promising young country with its own oil re-serves and known as one of the world’s biggest produc-ers of coffee.

Joy was only 14 when her mom brought her to the U.S., after completing third year at Ednas School. She continued her studies at St. Nicholas High School in California.

After graduation, she got a scholarship at Wesley College, the same school where U.S. State Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton and Ambassador Madelyn Albright graduated. Joy then pursued her master’s degree at the University of London and then at Berkley University for her PhD.

It was while working for her PhD that she met her future husband, Fernando, who was languishing in prison in Jakarta, Indone-sia, a political prisoner for seven years on charges of subversion allegedly com-mitted against the state.

That time, she was writing a book about the struggle for independence in Aceh, Indonesia, where she stayed for several years, and in East Timor. (To page 13)

Love blossomed be-tween the two after ex-changing letters. Most of the times, the letters were delayed for six months.

After Fernando was re-leased from prison, she went with him to East Timor, where Fernando supported the referendum for indepen-dence that gained 79 percent acceptance by the people.

At Timor Leste, Profes-sor Lasama established the Deli University.

Since her husband was elected for a six-year term as president of the National Parliament in June 2007, Joy became the interim First Lady of the country.

There is no First Lady in East Timor, as President Jose Ramos-Horta is un-married. Thus, Joy is in-vited to state functions for visiting foreign dignitaries representing the state as First Lady.

In Deli, the Lasamas live in a government house sur-rounded with security men. They have household staff, and nannies too for young Hadomi.

“But being a political economist, I don’t want securities. I told them the security is a waste of re-sources. I told them to give the securities to the minis-ters who really need them,” Joy said. She said being a

12 MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009 PEOPLE & EVENTSPEOPLE & EVENTS

GENERAL DENTISTRYDr. Gilbert ChanDr. Daphne ChienDr. Janet HoDr. Janet WongDr. Michael Chin

GENERAL DENTISTRYDr. Gilbert ChanDr. Daphne ChienDr. Janet HoDr. Janet WongDr. Michael Chin

True to its trademark as the biggest, the most exciting and mostly attended summer Filipino event, the Philippine Independence Day Council (PIDC) Mabuhay Summer Festival was successfully participated by the different ages of not only by Filipinos but other members of the Canadian community.

Majority of the annual visitors travel as far as the neighboring US states and all over Ontario to attend the cultural extravaganza

featuring the best among the Filipino arts, culture the display of booths and of course, the food.

An example of the anticipation was - Nilo Reyes and family of Newmarket started to prepare a week before to plan to attend the event and brought with him even his in-laws.

In the end he told his friends that it is worth the drive to Toronto to see the

many Kababayans who were present.

Such is the nature of the Mabuhay Festival – there is always something to see and for the whole family.

PIDC committed offi -cers fresh from bringing the GMA Kapuso artistas to the tour of the Niagara Peninsula almost stayed the whole night preparing and supervising the cycle of activities to ensure that the

Metro Manila Convention Pavilion will be ready for the thousands of expectators.

The President Jun Enverga and the Executive Vice President Minda Neri and the Board as well as untiring volunteers assigned up to the wee hours of the morning have only few hours of sleep just to ensure all are properly coordinated.

A wider hall at the

Metro Toronto Convention Centre as venue has afforded more room for exhibitors and visitors, the lay-out allowing for smooth indoor traffic. The huge venue has also allowed for more food concessionaires, something that food-loving patrons appreciated. PIDC accounted for 170 booth spaces occupied, while the Philippine Chamber of Commerce-Toronto (PCCT)

brought in 67 exhibitors that include the 10 food vendors.

Over-all total of 237 booths became the cornerstone of display of products and services including enterprising youths who exhibited their enterprising streak by renting stalls where they sold T-shirts and other youth-targeted paraphernalia.

For 2009 PIDC added an extra 2,000 chairs so that a lot more will be able to enjoy their favourite shows in comfort.

In front, guests were greeted with a bahay-kubo laden with kiping, the colorful rice wafers of the world-famous Pahiyas festival of Lucban, Quezon Province. The festival honors San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers, in thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest. Traditionally, houses along the old streets of Lucban are artistically decorated with agricultural harvest, and of the very unique highlight of the festival, the “kiping”. Drop by the Mindanao

A great Kapuso experience2009 PIDC Mabuhay Summer Festival

A press release of the Philippine Independence Day Council

PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY COUNCIL OFFICERS AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS (To page 13)

13MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009

No homecoming pomp for East Timor’s ...(From page 11)martial arts practitioner herself, she perhaps could defend herself when attacked.

In coming here with Hadomi, the mother and son were fetched by Joy’s mom Corona from the airport, then they boarded a Five Star bus at its terminal in Pasay City.

Upon reaching Dagupan, they boarded a motorized tricycle to reach her mother’s home in Bonuan.

Joy’s husband, Fernando, has arrived from a state visit to Ethiopia. He canceled his trip to four other countries to be in the Philippines. He addressed the Philippine Congress before going to Dagupan to meet his in-laws.

“That is the only the first time for the family to be together,” Joy said as she re-vealed that in East Timor, they had little time as a family. Her husband is preoc-cupied with the state affairs while she is a “full-time mother and father to Hadomi”.

But she leaves regularly for Spain to teach.

As for Hadomi, she said she wanted

the boy to learn the Filipino language and the Pangasinan dialect to claim his Filipino identity.

She admitted the boy is being spoiled in East Timor; but here in Dagupan, he should learn to be independent. “I want Hadomi to be both Filipino and Timorese,” she said.

Mrs. Lasama said she remained a Filipi-no-American as her application for Timorese citizenship is yet to be approved. She said that being a foreigner, the Timorese seemed reluctant to accept her as their interim First Lady but having been there for years and actually supported them, they have learned to love her.

Joy told newsmen that since the posi-tion of an interim First Lady in Timor Leste could perhaps be compared to being a house administrator or a chambermaid, she needed to earn a living so she could help her husband give a better future to Hadomi.

She said she has accepted an offer to be a professorial head in the University of Ko-rea and would be leaving in August. PNA

Corner to have a feel of the exotic and the rich culture of the Philippine South which featured a simulation of the real Vinta. The area was very busy for souvenir photo opportunities.

A Gawad Kalinga depicting a real village GK housing project is situated in the strategic area of the venue. This is to show where the donations and proceeds will be going and the charitable benefi ciary for this year’s event.

The day started solemnly with a Holy Mass at 8 a.m. offi ciated by Fr. Ben Ebcas the pastor of Our Lady of Assumption. This was followed by a performance of the Tinikling, and song numbers by the famed

A great Kapuso experience(From page 12)

Filipino operatic voice, Eleanor Calbes.

Pepe Smith and the Juan de la Cruz band rocked the crowd early in the morning to set the tone for the day.

Pacifi c and Polynesian dances on stage revved up everybody by their moves. Winners of the Seniors’ Karaoke singing contest performed ala Frank Sinatra and Diomedes Maturan of the 60’s songs. On the

(To page 26)

CULTURAL GROUP DANCES THE SINGKIL

14 MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009 People & eventsPeople & events

X

Weddings • Birthdays • Graduations& other special events

TimelessImages

VIDEO andPHOTOGRAPHY

Contact us at T: 647.343.9359/416.266.5705 E: info@mytimages.com

or visit us at mytimages.com

The Stallions Youth Basketball Association (SYBA) Peewee Division Team saw action at the PHYBA 2009 Championships at TL Kennedy, Mississauga, Ontario. With SYBA president Nik Labayen (left) are team members (following from left) Darrel Soriano, Brandon Galicinao, Marc Labayen, Angelo Sunda-rarajah, Coach Bong Garcia, Ryan Guiang, Brian Saguros, Rhaymar Telan, Carlos Cabaneros, Mark Lista and Ian Penecilla. PR

Stallions YBA PeeWee Division Team

The Filipino Centre Toronto (FCT) has launched its search for Miss Teen Paraluman 2009 and for its 2009 Outstanding Student awardees.

Miss Teen ParalumanThe FCT Miss Teen

Paraluman comes at the heels of the successful conduct in May of Ms. Paraluman and the participation of 14 pretty young Filipino maidens role-playing as ‘reynas’ during FCT’s Santacruzan at the two-day Pistahan in Nathan Philips Square in

June.The May pageant

epitomized the achievements and success of the Filipino woman.

Philip Beloso, co-chair of Ms. Paraluman - a fundraiser, said the candidate should be 15 to 19 years old, single, has never been married nor borne a child, and of Filipino descent.

Beloso said the number of candidates would not exceed 12.

Titles to be won are Miss Teen Paraluman, 1st

runner-up, 2nd runner-up, 3rd runner-up, 4th runner-up, Miss Charity, Miss Photogenic, Miss Sports Model, Best in Talent, Best in Evening Gown.

Finalists would be awarded individual trophies with their names on it.

Beloso said there would also be cash, sash, crown, fl owers, gift baskets and gift certifi cates prizes for the winners.

Miss Teen Paraluman would be crowned on November 15 at Sts. Peter & Paul Banquet Hall.

Student Awards Likewise, the FCT has

announced the start of its 2009 search for outstanding elementary and high school graduates who are of Filipino heritage.

To qualify:► The applicant is

registered in an elementary

or secondary school in the Greater Toronto Area.

Elementary school applicants should be completing or have completed the last year of elementary school and be going to high school;

High school applicants should be accepted and going into either university, community college or an apprenticeship program.

► The applicant should have a minimum academic average of 85 percent or equivalent during the last two school years, and be involved in extra-curricular and community activities.

► Elementary school applicants should submit the original copies of fi nal report cards for the last two years

High school applicants should submit a current and original transcript bearing the school’s offi cial seal

All applicants should also submit two original letters of character reference, one from the school and excluding immediate family; two passport-size photos; and a completed FCT application form.

Beloso said the evaluation of applications would be based on scholastic achievement (50 percent),

community involvement and extra-curricular activities (30 percent) and interview (20 percent).

All applicants screened and approved by the Student Awards Committee would be recognized and honored.

Monetary awards, trophies and plaques would be presented in the fall to the winners of each category, and to those who passed screening and approval.

De Villa CupMeanwhile, FCT has

announced the winners of its recently-concluded De Villa Cup Golf Tournament at the Granite Ridge Golf Club in Milton on July 19.

Golf tournament over-all champions were Elmer Gorospe for men and Diana Salmingo for ladies.

Other winners: Closest to the pin, Ross Bautista (men) and Salmingo (ladies); longest drive, Mike Dickenson (men) and Salmingo (ladies); best foursome, Sal Reyes, Raul Cornejo, Dante Pedro and Zen Alcober (men) and Tessie Duran, Gertrud Alvela, Salmingo and Lucky Isidro (ladies);

Most honest, Paul Murphy (men) and Alvela (ladies); putting, Dante

FCT search for Miss Teen Paraluman ‘09, student awardees onBy AIDA D’ORAZIO

(To page 24)

15People & EventsPeople & EventsMANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009

PRESENTING SPONSOR: Milan Group of Companies

PLATINUM SPONSOR: Dr. Francis Rementilla, Chair, Bodybliss

GOLD SPONSOR: Dr. F. Mejilla, Whole Life Chiropractic

SILVER SPONSOR: Renee Talavera-Siao, BA, RHU, Assante Financial Management Ltd.; Irma Cuenca and Bob Nutbrown, Royal LePage Innovators

GK UNITY CUP SPONSOR: Ron Clarin, Richmond Hill Toyota

SPIRIT TROPHY SPONSOR: Marco Amoranto, ABS-CBN, TFCKo

HOLE IN ONE SPONSOR: Maryjane Viejo, ReMax Realtron

LANDING ON THE GREEN PAR 3 SPONSOR: Cynthia Delfi n, Royal LePage Connect Realty

PAR SPONSOR: Augusto Hidalgo, New World Financial; Raymond Pineda; Deloitte Consulting

GRAPHICS & PRINTING SPONSOR: Sean Carunungan, Printcor

SCORING & STATISTICS SPONSOR: Charlie Borromeo

HOLE SPONSORS: Malou Serna, Century Properties; PNB Global Remit; IREMIT; Paul & Roland, Bluffers Restaurant; Nihon Auto Sales; LBC, Hari Ng Padala; Regalo, a Hanap-Bahay enterprise

Our heartfelt thanks to the following for their contribution:

Chair GK Golf: Dr. Francis Rementilla, DPTTournament Coordinator: Renee Talavera-Siao, BA, RHURules Committee: Mars Cebrero, Charlie Borromeo, Raymond Pineda, Junn Siao, Jess PeruchoPrize Convenor: Dorie Ascano, Renee Talavera-SiaoPhotographer: Rene SevillaPublic Relations: Jojo QuerubinCirculo Ilongo GK Coordinator: Noe CastanosVolunteers: Aurora Collantes, Cynthia Delfi n, Margie Alocilja

GK UNITY CUP PARTICIPANTS Team Ateneo, Team La Salle, Team UP, Team Unity

Liezle Siao, Mackenzie Financial, Junn Siao, Northwest Funds, Manulife Investments, Covington Funds, Rey Olamit, Irene Olamit, Golftown, Wm. Ashley China, Franklin Templeton Investments, Umbra, Bodybliss, Home Depot, Dorie & Alex Ascano, Couples For Christ, RBC Royal Bank Lysnader Sanchez, Dolores Arriola, Assante Estate & Insurance Services, AGF Funds, Assante Financial Management Ltd, Invesco Trimark, Assante Estate & Insurance Services, Temi Pangilinan, Willowdale Cruiseship Services Ed Cruz, Dominion Grocery, Ricky Cuenca, CI Investments, IA Clarington Richard Te, Liland Insurance Jun Borile, Manulife Financial, Dynamic Funds, Toronto East Cruiseship Centre, Fidelity Investments, Angus Glen Golf Club, Transamerica Life, Sunlife Financial.

And of course the volunteers who donated their time and effort to help make this event a success.

CONGRATULATIONS TO TEAM ATENEO, WINNERS OF 2009 GK UNITY CUP2nd Annual MILAN GK GOLF Held at Angus Glen Golf Club, Monday, August 3, 2009

SPONSORS DONORS

More than 100 golfers took center stage in the 2nd Milan GK Golf Tournament, featuring the inter-collegiate Unity Cup on Aug. 3.

The GK Championship Trophy was handed to the team of Bryan Vallesi, Eddie Seriano, Ron Eusebio, and Ed Millan.

Team Ateneo, composed of Chito Navarro, Marco Amoranto, Macky Maca-alay, Jon Amante, and Paco Pangilinan bagged the 2009 Unity Cup.

The GK Unity Spirit Trophy was won by Team La Salle.

Individual tournament winners were:

► Low Net: Cora dela Cruz (female) and Tim Mitchell (male),

► Low Gross: Pam Bacon (female) and Romie Lat (male),

Team Ateneo (above), led by Raymond Pineda, and Team LaSalle (below), anchored by Mars Cebrero, pose for the lenses with ConGen Alejandro Mosquera and Toronto diva Josie de Leon. PR

(Above) Golfers of Team Ateneo, the 2009 Unity Cup winner, receive their trophy. (Right) The GK Championship trophy is handed to the team of Bryan Vallesi, Eddie Seriano, Ron Eusebio, and Ed Millan. (Below) Team La Salle receive their GK Unity Spirit trophy. PR

Team Ateneo cops Milan GK Unity Cup golf tourney

► Long Drive: Sarah Milan (female) and Mitchell (male),

► Closest to the Pin: Vanessa Rementilla (female) and Consul General in Toronto Alejandro

(Turn to page 24)

16 MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009

17MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009People & EventsPeople & Events

At least eight basketball clubs battled for hardcourt supremacy in the three-day fun-fi lled and exciting Philippine Independence Day Council (PIDC) 6th Annual Mabuhay Cup Invitational at the Hoop Dome from Aug. 6 to 9.

In a press release, organizers of the cage tourney announced the winners and division Most Valuable Players (MVP) as follows:

► Mosquito Division: Bayan, champion; York Grizzlies, runner-up.

The Most Valuable Player (MVP) was Jun Samocino.

► Tykes Division: Jayhawks CKATT, cham-pion; Vaughan, runner-up.

The MVP was Paul Peralta.

► Peewee Division: North York, champion; Bayan, runner-up.

The MVP was Keith Montero.

► Bantam Division: Jayhawks CKATT, cham-pion; Durham, runner-up.

The MVP was Errol Yalung.

► Midget Division: Lakan GMA Pinoy, champion; North York Sultans, runner-up.

The MVPs were Paolo Reyes and AC Hagoriles.

► Open Division: T.O. Falcons, cham-pion; Lakan GMA Pinoy, runner-up.

The MVP was Alan Garcia.

Midget Division MVPs Reyes and Hagoriles and Open Division MVP Garcia were each awarded a

6th PIDC Mabuhay Cup Invitational winners announced

Mabuhay Cup SPORTS MODELS with the judges.

Open MVP Alan Garcia gets award from Minda Neri.(To page 24)

Bayan, Mosquito Division champion

Jayhawks CKATT, Tykes Division champion

North York, PeeWee Division champion

AUGUST 2009 MANILA MEDIA MONITOR18 MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009

CALENDAR► AUG. 29: Kalayaan Cultural Com-munity Centre Golf Classic Tourna-ment, Royal Ontario Golf Club.► SEPT. 6: Philippine Chamber of Commerce Toronto Annual Golf Tour-nament.► SEPT. 12: Fiesta Filipina Dance Troupe of Canada Indayog Dance Con-cert, Living Arts Theatre, Mississauga.► SEPT. 12: IPEN Canada’s Prettiest Filipinas Beauty Pageant, George Igna-tieff Theatre.► SEPT. 13: Filipino Canadian Medi-cal Association and Kalayaan Cultural Community Centre (KCCC) Medical Fair, KCCC-Mississauga.► SEPT. 19: Katbalogans Association of Ontario Casino Rama Trip. ► OCT. 3: Philippine Independence Day Council Dancing To Be A Star Fi-nals, Sts. Peter and Paul Banquet Hall.► OCT. 22: Philippine Chamber of Commerce Toronto Seminar on Doing Business in the Philippines.► OCT 17: Katbalogans Association of Ontario Pre-Halloween Party. NOV. 14: Philippine Chamber of Com-merce Toronto Annual Christmas Party.

People & EventsPeople & Events

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my mind, making me miss the gist of the presidential speech.

But I was right below the rostrum, two feet away from the president.

Anything could happen on an island known for harboring major loyalists to Marcos.

Later, I would feel shame inside me as I read of how Cory stood her ground like Queen Elizabeth I in the face of the invasion of the Spanish Armada.

Cory did not duck in the face of clear and imminent danger to her person during a number of coup d’ etat staged during her presidency.

She certainly did not hide under her bed, as a well-known journalist would later painfully realize.

President Aquino fl ew on to nearby Cagayan de Oro for her second engagement for the day.

Just before the presidential party left Malacanañg, the staff asked the president if she had anything in particular she wanted to do or obtain while in Cagayan de Oro.

And she said: “Dalhin n’yo ako sa bulaluan na kung saan tayo kumain noong kampanya.”

Thus did Cagayan de Oro’s “Mang Tura’s Bulalo” earned its presidential endorsement.

Historians normally allow some time for an event to pass before they make their evaluation to lend a degree of objectivity to the process - whatever this means.

Yet, Cory Aquino’s death has already spawned volumes of critique on the Aquino years and the Cory legacy.

But for all the pedantic judgments, History might just remember that one shining moment in a people’s saga – EDSA.

A people’s queen had passed on. Long live Cory!

A brush with history (My 15 minutes of ...(From page 9)in the area, which has now aligned with Cory Aquino through Salvador Laurel.

It was against this backdrop that one day the Monsignor called me to the convento to request my services during Cory’s visit to Iligan.

And the assignment? To act as protocol offi cer (my glamourized version of chief receptionist) during the brief program at the Iligan City Grandstand where the President was going to speak.

It was a very sensitive responsibility involving confi dentiality and tact.

I was given a very short list of VIPs allowed to join the President on stage.

My strict instruction was: Name not on the list? No entry. After all, the list was already pared and cleared by Malacanang.

And so the day came and my trials began.

Given the culture in Lanao - if you get my driftn - everybody who thought they were somebody wanted to go up the stage!

They gave every possible reason: from being a major political ally of Cory to having participated in EDSA.

Or simply for being a town mayor from some never-heard-of-hinterland of Lanao.

I emptied my normally bottomless reservoir of courtesy, psychology of human behavior, and patience that day.

The arrival of more uniformed men and increased traffi c of con-versation on hand-held radios hinted that the arrival of the President was imminent.

Then the drone of a giant helicopter became very audible. Excitement was in the air.

Finally, the giant bird unloaded it’s precious passenger, the deus-ex-machina clad in patent

yellow.The crowd erupted into

a rapturous applause. There was a security

cordon around the periphery of the stage so people could not readily rush to approach the President as she made the short trip to the stage.

I thought the entire scene was from the theatre of the absurd.

Here was the president of the land alighting from the helicopter with nary a close-in bodyguard beside her!

For all the plain housewife aspersion cast against her by the former dictator, she displayed regal bearing and confi dence as she walked away from the helicopter. (The presidential staff had, a minute earlier, gone ahead to place the Seal of the President on the rostrum.)

I approached the president and waved a hand to usher her up the stage.

The gesture merited that now-famous Cory smile.

I wish someone had taken a picture of me as history brushed past by me.

(I’ve been chasing presidents since I was little, starting with Diosdado Macapagal whose car I chased when he came visiting Iligan for the 1961 elections. I got to shake his hand.

In 1969, I got a glimpse of Ferdinand Marcos as he entered a hotel lobby also in Iligan. I wouldn’t have shaken his hand. At the ineligible age of 13, I campaigned for Osmena that year. I danced with President Arroyo when she was still a senator. But this is another story.)

Paranoia started to creep as the president started to address the crowd.

What if the sniff dogs missed a bomb on stage?

Could there be enemy snipers atop the surrounding buildings?

A few scenarios entered

The Filipino Canadian Medical Association (FCMA) and the Kalayaan Cultural Community Centre (KCCC) will conduct a Medical Fair at the KCCC grounds in Mississauga Sept. 13 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The fair is geared towards educating the community on health and medicine.

Lecture topics include addressing common medical conditions: detection, prevention, treatment, and health promotion.

Medical practitioners will be around to answer questions during the day-long lecture series.

Exhibits from pharmaceutical companies and others dedicated to the promotion of health will be on display.

There will also be a brown bag program and participants are urged to bring medicines from home.

On-site pharmacists will sort out the medications.

Meanwhile, the KCCC has set Sept. 26 for its second Hepatitis B Information Session series at the KCCC from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

The fi rst of two sessions was completed on June 27.

Hepatologist Dr. Hemant Shah lectured on risk factors, testing, natural history, and prevention.

Lunch is included in the free workshop that sought to inform participants about the disease which has become prevalent in the Asian community.

The lectures are made possible through a grant given by Gilead Sciences Canada, Inc.

KCCC is a non-profi t, charitable organization serving the Filipino-Canadian

FCMA, KCCC to conduct Medical Fair

Specialist Dr. Hemant Shah joins participants of a lecture series on Hepatitis B at the Kalayaan Cultural Community Centre. PR Photo

community as a venue for heritage and cultural celebrations, support services for seniors and the youth, and newcomer activities.

KCCC also provides a variety of training programs, educational activities, and community dialogues for the general public. PR

KCCC Hepatitis B lecture series

AUGUST 2009 MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009 MANILA MEDIA MONITOR 19

MANILA MEDIA MONITORMANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009AUGUST 200920

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21MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009

Filipinos overwhelming winners at 2009 NCM Festival

2009 NCM VIOLIN ENSEMBLE WITH JACOB LAKIROVICH. (From left) Clarence Cheng, Derek Liu, Stephanie Nowakowski-Brown, Emily Zhang, Lea Zila, Catherine Wang, Rosephine Del Fernandes, Arthur Goslin, Eva Zila, Dennis Pacewicz, Elijah Daniel Manalo, Alysson Bernabe, Miguel Soriano, NicoleSamantha Huff, Gerin Puig, Parama Talukder, Louis Francis Talon, Asanka De Silva, Anthony Lee, (front) Darleen Ha, Lorenzo Noah Ruiz, Sarah Church, and Kenneth Yu.

(ABOVE, LEFT) NCM PIANO MASTERS WITH STEPHAN KARABEKOS. (From left) Gareth Leung, Adela Hua, Ravi Panchal, Sayoojya Saju, Kevin Galleta, Laura Mejia and Joshua Datu. (ABOVE, RIGHT) There were seven $1,000 Scholarship Winners: (From left) Adela Hua, Gareth Leung, Aylin Ma, Martin Tahamid, Lilac Toh, and Nicole Samantha Huff. Missing Adrienne Hudencial.

(ABOVE) THE CAT PACK. (From left) Melina Aspiotis, Amanda Isusu Ugalde, Abigail Cinco, Kaitlin Benoit, Elijah Daniel Manalo, Sheena Marie Yadao, Meghan Harwood and Jasmine Gooljar. On piano is Mark Hernandez with Lucia Prica. (BELOW) FUSION FIVE WITH DUSAN PAUNOVIC. (From left) Jessica Li, Xavier Zhang, Raphael Carlito Flores, Alan San Martin, and Leo Li.

Over 400 young Filipinos participated in this year’s New Conservatory of Music Festival. The Festival is now so popular it has just been nominated for the 2009 Consumer’s Choice Award.

And Filipino youngs-ters are up, winning a large share of the trophies and scholarships awarded.

Adrienne Huden-cial won the Age Achievement for age 13 and the Latin Music competition.

Martin Tahamid won the Age Achievement for age 9 plus the Jazz, the Latin Music, and the Duet competition while Nicole Samantha Huff won the Age Achievement for voice plus several other honors.

All three also won $1,000 scholarships.

Austin Bartolome won the Age Achieve-ment contest for 6 year-olds.

Karen Asuncion, Cerniel Cruzada, Justin Albert Guiyab, and Kevin Christian Saludares won $500 scholarships.

$200 scholarships were won by Krystal Abrigo, Rolando Agul-lano Jr., Janelle Baltazar, Austin Bartolome, Frederick Crisolo, Cailean Cruzada, Elaine Dignos, Melissa Dizon, Jasmine Gooljar, Joshua Hernandez, Monica Labuguen, Hans Lidon, Charlize Low, Lia Luz, Markus Martinez, Jessie Montalbo, Katrina Po, Nicole Ramos, Alex Reyes, Alexandra Rive-ra, Jessica Rivera, Olivia Rivera, Monica Soriano, and Neanne Rose Sta. Monica.

The following won 1st place trophies: Nicole Agustin, Kate Ancheta, Karen Asuncion, Mary-Ann Bagabaldo, Janelle Baltazar, Michii Barredo, Austin Bartolome, Mik-haila Bernales, Vincent Bonus, Mikyla Bravo, Joshua Andre Bulaong, Melody Buzon, Mariafe Calica, Rommel Casi-gay-Barbieto, Julliane Marisse Castro, Kathe-rine Catignas, Alison Cornelio, Cerniel Cruza-da, Tracy Dumael,

Rachelle Escaba, Dion Flores, Rochelle Foo, Victoria Gosek, Justin Albert Guiyab, Jason Heraldo, Aaron Gabriel Hernandez, Joshua Hernandez,

Adrienne Hudencial, Nicole Samantha Huff, Aron John Isip, Amanda Law, Hans Lidon, Conrad Lim, Charlize Low, Nicholas Manalo, Haylee Marcoleta, Sabrina Mariano, Markus Martinez, Dashel Mae Masangcay, Breanne Millette,

Brycen Millette, Jessie Montalbo, Enrique Olivo, Jeremy Plaza, Katrina Po, Timothius Prajogi, Joshua Pusong, Nicole Ramos, Raizel Reboldela, Alex Reyes, Olivia Rivera, Keanu Saludares, Kevin Christian Saludares, Neanne Rose Sta. Monica, Martin Tahamid, Julianna Tatlongmaria, Marijo Victorino, Sheena Marie Yadao, and Jolo Yamson.

2nd place trophies: Christelle Arciaga, Nikki Baret, Rachelle Batarao, Almira Kamire Bayle, Frances Briones, Ashley Bronilla, Adriane Capinpin, Abigail Cinco, Kathleen Claveria, Frederick Crisolo, Zoe Curwen, Mark Dalope, April-Gayle De Guzman, Michelle De Lara, Camilla Dela Victoria, Elaine Dignos, Melissa Dizon, Tracy Dumael, Jeszer Estavillo, Heather Estebes, Erika Evangelista,

Kyle Fajardo, Rosephine Del Fernandes, Danise Fernandez, Jennylene Gaanan, Mark Gatongay, Katrina Ashley Jose, Judee Joson, Lachelle Junatas, Ysabella Nicole Karganilla, Riel Laberinto, Monica Labuguen, Rianelle Joy Lim, Jesse Llana, Lia Luz, Megan Verl Manabat, Macmar David Marcelino, Sophia Lauren Mateo, Andrea Mendioro, Marianne Mendioro, Michelle Mohammed,

April Camille Oliveros, Michael Ong, Julia Panganiban, Ainley Pena, Sean Po, Zak Rahman, Zeydan Rahman, Tash Repolleza, Eric Reyes, Alexandra Rivera, Jessica Rivera, Arlene Joy Salazar, Maritha (Mauie) Sia, Monica Soriano, Sahar Tabrizi, Meagan Tanguilig, Taylor Bligh Torreon, Marie Ubungen, Nicole Victorino, Danica Mae Vitto, and Riel Yumul.

3rd place trophies: Erin Danielle Abila, Hannah Acosta, Sarah Isabelle Acosta, Austine Ancheta, Artur Dion Aquino, Kean

Arnedo, Melissa Ayisi, Regina Maye Balitaan, Marian Bautista, Alysson Bernabe, Harriette Leigh Berona, Aaron Bolouri, Maria Carolina Borja, Albert Brion, Jayvee Briones, Chelsea Cabrera, Mariafe Calica, Cassandra Celemen, Christine Crisolo, Cailean Cruzada,

Darren Dalisay, Dominique Del Castillo, Ren Julian Del Rosario, Kyla Dela Cruz, Melissa Dizon, Charlene Dorland, Derek Dorland, Marcus Alexander Fajardo,

$1,000 scholarship winner Nicole Saman-tha Huff

(To page 23)

MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 200922

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Kathleen Galleta, Kenneth Galleta, Jasmine Gooljar, Stephanie Javelosa, Liam Kelly, Janae Luis, Stephanie Manogar, Jazmine Miralles, Cypriane Paul Miranda, Genelle Montalbo, Aloha Narajos, Patrick Ocampo, Anthony Ona,

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Filipinos overwhelming ...(From page 21)

teresting coincidence hap-pened to me.

I was sitting on one of the benches inside Scarbor-ough Town Centre, by the front of H&M Store.

While waiting for my wife, I decided to play with my thoughts about my next article for this column. I al-ready had a title in mind.

Words about life and death were flowing in my head like water when I heard a woman’s voice re-peatedly yelling, “Old man! Old man!”

It was very persistent.My curiosity got the best

of me and I turned my head to her direction to check.

Well, surprise, surprise! I was the old man she

was referring to. She was very upset. There was anger in her eyes.

She pointed her forefin-ger at me to single me out and forcefully said, “Old man, you will get a casket! You will die! Your family will bury you in the ground! You will die!”

I was taken aback but managed to say “Thank you.” before she went on her way.

Was she the messenger of death?

Was she a psychic and able to read what I was thinking at the time?

Or was the woman just plain crazy?

Her words were fright-eningly ominous but aside from the word “old man,” she was not lying.

I will eventually die and my family will provide a casket to bury me in the ground.

That is a fact. It is meant to happen.

How soon? I did not ask.

But I am sure she would have mentioned it if she knew.

I have always been open-minded about my own death.

Don’t get me wrong.I am not on a death

wish. I love life but I also be-

lieve in Pre-arranged Fu-neral.

My wife and I bought our final resting place twen-ty two years ago, at Rest Haven on Kingston Road and Brimley.

My six best friends are honoured that I picked them as my pallbearers when the time comes.

One of them even jok-ingly said, “Don’t live too long, I may go before you.”

I treat each day as if it is my last.

With that approach, I get the most of the day and I give my most to the day.

I believe that when you are living a simple life and fulfilling your unselfish pri-orities, you are also capable of having a meaningful life here on earth.

On that note, I would like to add a verse from the Bible: “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the dif-ference.”

Borrowed time(From page 10)

24 MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009 People & EventsPeople & Events

Mosquera (male).At the end of the

tournament, the golfers and guests were treated to a sumptuous meal while entertainment was provided by Josie de Leon, John Alix, and the impromptu participation of Mosquera.

Team Ateneo ...(From page 15)

Jayhawks CKATT, Bantam Division champion

Lakan GMA Pinoy, Midget Division champion

T.O. Falcons, Open Division champion

6th PIDC Mabuhay Cup champion teams

The members of the committee sterring Dancing To Be A Star, a project of the Philippine Independence Day Council (PIDC), are ready to stage the 3rd edition of the ballroom dancing contest at the Sts. Peter & Paul Banquet Hall on Oct. 3.

PIDC president Jun Enverga has named Leonie Manzanares to chair the project.

Rosemer Enverga and Rory Elefano were appointed as co-chairs.

Previous co-chairs Imie Belanger and Pete Mauricio presented and articulated

the dancing contest’s concept that Manzanares had elaborated and highly-structured.

In a press launch, organizers said guests from reality shows Dancing With The Stars and You Think You Can Dance are expected to grace the event.

“This year, we will be seeking for gold, silver and bronze winners,” Manzanares said.

“The contest involves dancing one Latin and a choice of either rumba, jive, cha-cha, merengue or salsa, and a modern or standard international number, either a waltz, foxtrot, quick step or tango,” she said. PR

PIDC’s Dancing To Be A Star3rd edition on Oct. 3

Organizers thanked all tournament sponsors, volunteers, and participants.

Organizers set the next year’s tournament at the Lionhead Golf and Country Club on Aug. 22, 2010. PR

Carlos; and special award, Chris Romero.

Sponsors and donors included BodyBliss through Dr. Francis Rementilla, Fairview Dental Centre (Dr. Anthony Eng) Dr. Antonina de Villa, Dr. Vicky Santiago, Dr. Richard Choi and Dr. Eileen de Villa, Paeng Nebres, Felino Javier, Dodong and Precy Tumulak, Dr. Regina Agbayani, Julie Almaria, Wendy Arena, Suzette Cresencia, Evelyn Birondo, Aida D’Orazio, Mercy Maliglig, Dr. Mario Andres and Eddie Semira.

Action Honda’s Paeng Nebres showed up with the car prize for the hole-in-one winner and for each of the subsequent winners to a maximum of four – a silver Honda 2009 Fit.

Event co-chairs FCT President Lynda Javier and Mike Saavedra and vo-lunteers ensured the smooth fl ow of activities. PR

The late Dr. Guillermo de Villa, Jr., after whom the annual Filipino CEntre Toronto golf tournament was named, would have beamed with pride when his eldest grandson, 7½-year old Aidan De Villa-Choi, teed off a mean drive to send the ball fl ying far down the green during the opening tournament opening at the Granite Ridge Golf Club in Milton on July 19. PR

FCT search for Miss Teen Paraluman ...(From page 14)

wireless phone, courtesy of PIDC Presenting Sponsor Rogers Wireless.

The invitationals started with the selection of Ms. Sports Model 2009. Shane Ericka Ico of Durham was chosen Ms. Sports Model 2009, while Abigail Legaspi of the T.O. Falcons settled for runner-up honors.

Then came the cham-pionship games.

Mabuhay Cup com-mittee chair Vilma Talisin noted: “Intensifi ed by the battle on the courts, frozen on our seats and not wanting to miss anything, we all were taken in for roller coaster rides, yelling and cheering atop of our lungs for our kids, for our teams, our screams overshadowed the thunder and wind from the rainstorm taking place outside HoopDome.”

“This was the weekend I wouldn’t want to miss, not without my children. While the list is long we know deep down we are all in this

together - in this Filipino favorite sport of basketball.

“Distracting the kids from malls, video games, etc. and for uniting the family together through basketball, just even for a weekend, is a major accomplishment.”

Unlike all other PIDC events, the Mabuhay Cup lasted four days, under the management of Tahsin, Manny Villamor, Bob San Juan, Tony Villarin and Aurora Ticson-Elefano and supported by a core of PIDC volunteers and parent volunteers from ball clubs.

New to the Mabuhay Cup was the creation of the Rules Committee composed of George Lalata, Roger Tarca, Mark Villegas and Pors Canlas.

Organizers also recog-nized the help of First Aid Team members Josie Consunji, Girlie Padillo, Helen Lao, Cyrill Theliere, Maribeth Perez, Bernadette Ramos, Eden Prieto, Maricar

6th PIDC Mabuhay Cup Invitational ...(From page 17)

Thelliere, Daisy Olegario, Chris Diaz, Rhonda Leano, Arnel Dayao, and Liberty Esguerra; and Ticket Control, Reception and Security committee members Aris Elefano, Jojo Rodriguez, Minda Neri, Danio Penuliar, Tony Villarin, Nene Ticson, Bing Marasigan, Leone Manzanares, Anita Elefano, Gene Elamparo, Nanding and Jimmy Marasigan; Rorie Elefano.

Rosemer Enverga facilitated the appearances and performances of PIDC beauties and entertainers.

Also thanked were Alex Yuan, founder of Sport for Kids Foundation; Evelyn Pagkalinawan; Dr. Solon Sabas Guzman; Rose Bongolan, Mrs. Philippines PIDC 2009; and Pauline Chan, Ms. Sports Model 2007, Ms. NABA 2008 and Ms. Philippines PIDC 2008, and Toronto Police Service Community Liaison Offi cer Constable Philip Mendoza.

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25MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009

26 MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009 People & EventsPeople & Events

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youth number, students and members of PATAC, Migrante Youth, University of Toronto and Ryerson University performed the call of the nationalist youth and the search of the true Filipino Identity with their performance of the “Panambitan ng Kabataang Makabayan”. It was started by Belinda Corpuz, this year’s winner of the most versatile vocal in the Young Asian Singing Competition and the winner of the Young Pinoy Idol. Myke Miranda of Kapisanan and U of T, touched the crowd with his spoken words titled “Quarter Spanish“ and the songs of Levy Abad Jr. of PATAC called “Na Shock Ako” depicted the thousands of Filipino migrants experiences and conditions working in a far away land.

In the centre of the hall were the three award-winning photographers which showcased their work at the festival an example is renowned artist and photographer Carlos Esguerra who is based from New York City displayed amazing photos and almost sold out.

During the afternoon the Kapihan was busy to those who made siesta while

viewing the exciting photo exhibit dubbed “Pilipinas - Images of a Country and its People”. The photo montage/collage highlights award-winning photos by Revoli Cortez and Edwin Bacasmas, a stylized showcase Filipino culture including personalities, places and events taken in various regions of the Philippines.

A display of banners and slogans depicting the plight of the Filipinos were also featured with the participation of many regional associations and cause oriented groups among them Lucena Association, Santaginians Association, Knights of Rizal, Migrante Ontario, Philippine Renal Nurses, PCUAA, Archdiocesan Filipino Catholic Mission and many others.

The Minerva Studio was busy and buzzing with impromptu events emanating a real live studio performances and experiences. The Baylehan is the venue where serious dancers displayed their talents.

Table tennis exhibition and competition showcased the best of our Ping Pong enthusiasts, some coming from out of town and the

Kidz Zone was also busy as ever.

The kapihan or tambayan corner made good its promise of respite from one’s walkabout, serving affordable coffee and favorite Pinoy snacks.

More importantly, it’s “sari-sari” store façade made for good conversation piece for patrons, many unable to resist asking storekeepers if they sold “Choc Nut” like in the Philippines (and the answer was “yes”!)

Mid in the afternoon everybody consumed their energy by laughing with the jokes of Ron Josol, one of the funniest men alive – another Filipino success story in the comedy showbiz world.

The traditional PIDC Pageant beauties graced everyone as they sashayed and strutted their stuff on stage.

Late in the afternoon the Santacruzan wound its way around the hall, a refl ection of the Filipino’s religious tradition. After all, the festival was about the Filipino and his culture.

The display of arts and talents was carried forward towards the night as the Fiesta Filipina Dance Troupe and Culture Philippines-Ontario performed the famed Pista sa Nayon a performance of intricate

collection of Philippine folk and ethnic dances, world-class entertainment that have won for the dance troupes invitations to renowned international folk festivals.

Pinoy pop culture is very much alive. This was proven by Studio 6 talents like Ms. Josie de Leon (who now has her own TV show) who headlined the musical revue titled “Girl, Ikakasal Ka Nga Ba” which was well received by the audience now numbering thousands.

Pandemonium erupted immediately upon the arrival on stage by the much awaited GMA Kapuso stars. Raymund Gutierrez of “Showbiz Central” fame was joined by Iza Calzado (that she is head-turner is no hype) on stage to get things going before the headliners -- Richard Gutierrez and Rhian Ramos -- made their own appearance. There is no doubt die-hard fans of Richard and Rhian (or “Zorro” for that matter) were more than happy to see their favorite actors up close and personal.

The love team could have done more acts on stage (perhaps following the song-and-dance routine that is staple in such shows) but nature had its way of interfering with events.

First, a ravaging typhoon

prevented GMA 7’s leading stars from leaving Manila on a flight that would have arrived in time for a meet-the-press function where only Raymund and Iza made it. Second, and more seriously, Richard had been very unwell from since leaving Manila en route to Toronto.

Perhaps, among Richard’s lingering memories of his Toronto visit would be his trips to St. Mike’s Hospital where he went for treatments even within the hour just prior to his stage appearance.

However, Faye Nalicat, GMA International’s Consultant for Canada, assures everyone that the audience’s cheers and screaming (some on the verge of crying) echoed the longest in Richard’s ears.

Nalicat writes: “We are all so pleased with the turn out with over 13,000 people! We can’t believe how warm the welcome was for Richard Gutierrez, Rhian Ramos, Iza Calzado and Raymund Gutierrez. It felt like GMA Pinoy TV has been available in Greater Toronto for several years, when in fact, it has been for less than two years. GMA Pinoy TV and its Kapuso Artists are very honoured to be at the Mabuhay Festival on July 18 at the

Metro Toronto Convention Centre.”

The long cue for autographs at the end of the show certainly spoke volumes.

It was a fun fi lled afternoon but over-all it was a tremendous success due to the participation of the many volunteers, organizations, vendors, media and specially the major sponsors like ROGERS Communications Inc and, GMA Pinoy TV, Casa Manila to name a few and most of all to everyone who came inspite of the economic recession which in the end it is all worth it not only have they enjoyed and have funfi lled memories but made a difference since by buying a ticket for the festival, they in turn contributed to the charitable efforts of PIDC geared towards helping the poor.

Minda Neri, Mabuhay Festival 2009 Chair, President Jun Enverga and PIDC Board and Council members, thank everyone for yet another successful festival. It can only get even better next year, with the community’s continued support.

After all, the festival and the Pinoy in Canada are now kapuso.

SEE YOU ALL ON JULY 24, 2010! PR

A great Kapuso experience(From page 13)

27MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009

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28 MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009 People & EventsPeople & Events

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Officers and members of the Archdiocesan Filipino Catholic Mission (AFCM) take a breather after a meeting. Temporalities committee chair Rosemer Enver-ga, event chair Zorrie and Jules Locquiao and all other committee members celebrated AFCM’s first fund raiser on August 8. The temporalities committee was tasked to oversee and plan activities for the Diocese of Toronto Filipino Community. The group announced the conduct of a Parol Festival during the Christmas season. The group urged those who have the artistic and creative touch to make a Parol (Christmas lantern) to join the festival and get a chance to win prizes. During the celebration, Frs. Sherwin, Romeo and Arnold, Fr. Ben Ebcas and Deacon Alex treated everyone with their rendition of classical songs. They also announced an upcoming Christmas Concert on Dec. 6. PR

AFCM Gathering

Mark Corpuz (middle of table) celebrates his fifth birth anniversary at his grandma’s family house in Toronto. The celebration was attended by rela-tives and friends. The games and food was prepared by his parents Ruben and Arlyn Corpuz. Photo: TONY ANG

Mark Corpuz celebrates 5th b-day

Ashley Vanessa Tahsin is formally introduced to society by parents Yalchin and Vilma (left and right, respectively) and brother Jeremy at a gath-ering of family and friends in Concord, Ontario. PR

Ashley Vanessa’s debutFATIMA SHRINE FILIPI-NO DAY. Rev. Julio Cia-vaglia, Director of Our Lady of Fatima Shrine, and members of The Pillars Cultural Asso-cation led by president Gerry Elises and day coordinator Tommy Mi-jares thank those who came to Filipino Day at the shrine on July 25. PR

The Camarines Norte Association Canada-Ontar-io (CNAC-O) will induct its newly-elected set of officers at the Holy Rosary Church Social Hall on Oct. 3.

Led by incoming presi-dent Willie Nabus, to also be inducted are Susan Llanera, 1st vice president; Priscillano Ostonal, Jr., 2nd vice president; Lydia Madrona -Yanto, secretary; Nely Lopriego, assistant secretary; Lida Espanol-

CNAC-O officersto be sworn in

(To page 31)

29MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009People & EventsPeople & Events

Bellarion and Lisa Navia treats family and friends to a summer get-together at their Scarborough residence. (Balow) The Navia family Cynthia, Brandon, Sonny, Melissa, GC Trinity and Bal-larion. (Left) The Navia family poses with Lisa’s friends. PR

Navia get-together

Bonnie and Luz Quiming of Scarbor-ough host a get-together party for rela-tives and close friends at their residence recently. Shown in photo taken during the affair are (from left) Flor Lim, Bonnie and Luz, Romy Turla and Raul Rosales. Photo: DONNA ALMINDAREZ, PR

Quiming get-together

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Omerta: Out of the box(From page 10)walled sites in the past.

Or perhaps, I might have grown sick and tired of being a bored onlooker to so-called cultural and en-tertainment gigs that should have been titled Great Ex-pectations, featuring artists from the Philippines who could offer nothing novel but a rerun, repeat, recycle of what had been seen of them in the boob tube or sil-ver screen.

Despite the growing concert/show fatigue setting in on financially-battered, say erstwhile, show at-tendees and concertgoers, I can’t understand why some producers are rumored to be hell-bent in getting deeper into the business or clawing each other out of the arena.

Grapevine news has not-ed that malicious producers have gone far into pirating the other’s talents and en-gaging in mudslinging.

Perhaps, this too has kept me cringing in the pro-verbial box for a long time.

*****Thus, when good friends

Mon and Teresa Torralba invited me to see Filipinos Making Waves Festival (FMWF) at Yonge-Dundas Square on August 15 and 16, I had the usual second thoughts.

I do not recall any atten-dance entry in my journal to the first two FMWF outings at the Harbourfront and On-tario Place.

But what have I got to lose? The FMWF was free, unrestricted. So I went ... and surprisingly stayed from start to end, both days.

And in those two days, I was made to realize that be-yond the box I was in, there were many dimensions I could have discovered and explored.

I learned:► That a Filipino-Ca-

nadian community event of that size and degree could be done without selling tickets.

► That proud and sup-portive sponsors and com-mitted volunteers will come forward for an event where committed organizers put the development of talents and the promotion of what being a Filipino over and above profits.

I may as well credit the Filipino Centre Toronto and other organizations who have dared to expose Phil-ippine arts, culture and mu-sic before Toronto in a free, open-air and public place.

► That outside domed halls and buildings are tal-ented performers of Filipino

origin, waiting and ready to be tapped, developed and made to decide by them-selves if performing arts is a career option.

► That one does not have to gamble with erst-while bankable artists and performers from outside Canada to come up with a show nearly, if not, at par

with similar events in To-ronto’s entertainment land-scape.

I knew then that on their own, Mon and Teresa made me aware that FMWF (through Jack and his group of homegrown talents?) has jumped out of the box so long ingrained in the minds of event organizers past.

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Members of the Gamma Epsilon Fraternity and Gamma Lambda Epsilon Sorority (founded on Aug. 25, 1963) in Canada mark their 46th foundation year with a simple but fitting celebration on Aug. 22. Posing for posterity are (seated, from left) Sis Angie Dioses, Bella Buesa, Maricel Fajardo, Alma Faller, Vannesa Adona and Evelyn Cantago; (standing, from left) Brods Nap Albarillo, Sam Asuncion, Ruel Cadavos, Nestor Magnayon, Vic Distrito, Fr. Raul Escarpe, Founder Amor Gaborno, Rey Operana, Ariel Capiendo, Sonny Montojo and James Serina. Not in photo are members Malou Distrito, Calvin Fam-inial, Rey Espinosa and Efren Ramirez. They were joined in the celebration by Brod Danny Ocampo from New York, friends and guests. Honorary members were inducted in the occasion. PR

Gamma Epsilon Canada marks 46th year

Bicol picnicCamarines Norte Asso-ciation Canada-Ontario members join region-mates from the Bicol Canada Community As-sociation in the latter’s annual Kaogmahan Sa Park at the Earl Bales Park on Aug. 16. In pho-to are (from left) Merle Canlas, Joy San Juan, Nely Lopriego, Andrea San Juan, Marie Agoston, Susan Llanera, Willie Nabus, Tony San Juan, Ernesto Villaluz, and Nestor de Mesa. Photo: JOJO TADURAN

Novena, fluvial parade to highlightLady of Peñafrancia Day - BCCA

The Bicol Canada Community Association (BCCA) has called on all devotees for a nine-day house-to-house novena and the traditional fluvial parade to celebrate the feast day of Our Lady of Peñafrancia on Sept. 19.

Our Lady of Peñafrancia is the patroness of the people of the Bicol region in the Philippines.

BCCA organizers said the fluvial procession-parade would be staged at the Bluffers Park at Brimley St. in Scar-borough on Sept. 19.

A procession to the Bluffers Park marina dock would start at 9:30 a.m. Devotees would assemble at the dock for the fluvial parade.

After the two-hour parade, Holy Mass would be cel-ebrated at the park followed by pot luck lunch.

In the evening, another procession for the Lady would be staged around the churchyard of the Lady of the As-sumption Church at Bathurst St., after which Mass would be celebrated.

OUR LADY OF PEÑAFRANCIA ICON

31MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009People & EventsPeople & Events

Muguerza, treasurer; Merle Canlas, assistant treasurer; Rommel Yanto, auditor; Eva San Andres, business manager; and Kambz Sil-vio, PRO;

Directors Larry Berca-sio, Marie Agoston, Andrea San Juan and Shey Silvio;

Town representatives Randy Fermo (Capalonga), Sonia De la Cruz (Basud), Minda Sayoc (Daet), Mil-vin Servidad (Labo), Li-wanag Nabus (Mercedes), Minda Alban (Paracale), Shirley Rosales (San Loren-zo Ruiz), Virgie San Juan

CNAC-O officers ...(From page 28)

skills and values. It is an unforgettable experience that has changed my life in many ways. Working with both police officers and ci-vilians was a great pleasure.

Youth in policing ...(From page 9)

theory remains controversial to this day,” says Piers Handling, Director and CEO of TIFF.

“We are pleased to open the festival with such an impassioned look at Charles Darwin, especially in the year marking the 200th anniversary of his birth.”

Part ghost story, part psychological thriller, part heart-wrenching love story, Creation is the story of Charles Darwin.

His great, still controversial, book The Origin of Species depicts nature as a battleground.

In Creation the battleground is a man’s heart.Torn between his love for his deeply religious

wife and his own growing belief in a world where God has no place, Darwin fi nds himself caught in a struggle between faith and reason, love and truth.

Ticket packages for the Festival are now available for purchase by cash, debit or Visa†.

Purchase online at tiff.net/the festival, by phone at 416-968-FILM or 1-877-968-FILM (Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., closed weekends and holidays) or in person at the Festival Box Offi ce at Nathan Phillips Square (Box Offi ce hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week), located at 100 Queen Street West, in the white tent, west of the square.

The 34th Toronto International Film Festival runs September 10 to 19, 2009. (Ben Viccari is past president of the Canadian Ethnic Media Association and frequently appears on OMNI TV Commentary. Some of his commentaries are republished in this publication and slightly expanded in some cases from their 70-second broadcast originals. For more of his work, please visit Ben’s website at http://canscene.ripple.ca)

TIFF opener will likely ...(From page 9)

Oswald Tugadi, vice president for membership of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce-Toronto (PCCT), is surrounded by family members led by his wife, Isa (2nd from right), in celebration of his 60th birth anniversary on August 1. Close friends also joined in the celebration, among others, PCCT president Rafael Nebres and wife Sylvia, PCCT Directors Flor Vendiola and Lino Sabilano, and friends from the media sector, Manila Media Monitor’s Ace Alvarez, Front Page Philippines’ Gie Alvarez, Philippine Times’ Ariel Ra-mos and Little Manila Confidential’s Joey Baking. The birthday celebrator is president of Albee Enterprises -- a Scarborough printing and stamping company. Photo: MANILA MEDIA MONITOR

Oswald Tugadi turns 60

Most people think of work as something that they don’t want to do, but working for the Toronto Police was the opposite, I actually wanted to work.”

(Santa Elena), Salve Aqui-no (San Vicente), Eman Ge-rio (Talisay),and Nestor De Mesa (Vinzons).

The officers were elect-ed on Aug. 16, in polls at the East York Town Centre.

CNAC-O is a province -based group founded in April 2007 by adviser Jojo Taduran, Larry Bercasio and Tony San Juan.

The 65-member group has established an outreach initiative, calamity relief fund assistance scheme, scholarship grants, and in-ter-organization cooperation and partnership program.. JSJM, PR

Media brands you can trust with your ad. To place, call 416-285-8583.

32 MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009 MoneyMoney

SAGOT SA BATID WIKA(MULA SA PAHINA 38)

US$ Cdn$August 21 48.16854 44.60153August 20 48.54187 44.53129August 19 48.40895 44.16601August 18 48.51272 43.98061August 17 48.44638 43.76149August 14 48.05738 43.80593August 13 47.85130 44.09161August 12 48.05806 44.20892August 11 47.79753 43.52871August 10 47.74960 44.04721August 07 47.91125 44.23718August 06 47.92646 44.58076August 05 47. 81235 44.68147August 04 47.79217 44.74663August 03 48.05993 45.04025July 31 48.02212 4450325July 30 48.02606 44.42473July 29 48.07746 44.15005July 28 47.97394 44.41768July 27 47.98723 44.30733July 24 48.01706 44.29430July 23 48.06396 44.25526July 22 47.95323 43.67047July 21 47.98013 43.30903July 20 47.86975 43.27925

GOT A FOREX DEAL?Check out if you got your peso’s worth for the dollars you have had exchanged since July 20. This is a pub-lic service item from Manila Media Monitor’s Money and Business section.

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MINNEAPOLIS - MoneyGram International and M. Lhuillier Financial Services joined together to sponsor the July 18 Mabuhay Festival at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

MoneyGram recently expanded its services in Canada growing to 3,000 Canada Post locations in June with thousands more being added by next year.

M. Lhuillier added MoneyGram services in

MoneyGram Int’l, M. Lhuillier Financial Services in Mabuhay fest

the Philippines has grown to nearly 1,200 locations in April and has become the fi rst MoneyGram agent offering a choice of CDN dollar to USD dollar or CDN dollar to peso for money transfer customers.

Philippines executive Lorenzo Escano, chief fi nancial offi cer of M. Lhuillier Financial Servi-ces and MoneyGram Interna-tional’s Ivy Wisco, Americas marketing manager, attended

the festival, Canada’s largest celebration of Philippine heritage, arts and culture.

“Remittances are an essential part of the economy in the Philippines and our expansion in Canada makes it easier and more convenient for Filipinos to send money to their families back home,” said Wisco. “MoneyGram now has more than 6,000 agent locations across the Philippines to help families meet fi nancial needs. PR

(LEFT) Ivy Wisco (left), MoneyGram marketing manager and Lorenzo Escano (right), M. Lhuillier CFO, congratulate Jun Enverga, Philippine Inde-pendence Day Council president, on a great Mabuhay festival. (BELOW) The MoneyGram booth is busy during the festival.

MANILA - An official of the Department of Finance (DOF) said the continued re-siliency of remittances sent by overseas Filipinos (OFs) as well as higher govern-ment spending were among the growth drivers eyed to help the domestic economy to post higher growth in the second quarter this year.

Finance Undersecretary Gil Beltran said other major contributors to the expected rosier growth were reports of better corporate earnings and the slower contraction in exports.

Beltran said government spending in the second quar-ter this year went up by 21.6 percent year-on-year, com-pared to the 16.4 percent in the previous quarter.

This transpired as the government decided to front-load expenditures in the first half to counter the effects of the global downturn and en-sure the continued growth of the domestic economy.

Remittance, higher spending to boost RP’s Q2 ‘09 growthBy JOANN VILLANUEVA

The government allocat-ed P330 billion this year for its stimulus program dubbed Economic Resiliency Plan (ERP).

Bulk of the ERP was used to finance more infra-structure projects and in-crease social services fund-ing.

Relatively, remittances, mainly from overseas Filipi-no workers (OFWs), contin-ued to beat earlier forecast of flat growth.

Attained was the second quarter growth of 3.1 per-cent, as against 2.7 percent from January to March this year.

Central bank officials forecast a higher than zero percent growth for remit-tances this year due to higher year-on-year deploy-ment of OFWs based on the continued high demand for Filipino workers, some of whom were sent to coun-tries not greatly affected by the global downturn.

Beltran also said compa-nies reported better earnings in the second quarter this

year compared to the previ-ous quarter.

“A survey of 80 large lo-cal corporations show a six-percent rise in net income in the first half compared with a decline of 4.6 percent in the first quarter,” he said.

The DOF executive also noted that contraction in the growth of exports has slowed to 28.9 percent from the previous quarter’s 36.8 percent because of higher demand for Philippine prod-ucts.

Economic managers are positive that the domestic economy will continue to face the global slowdown strong even as the growth target for the whole year has been revised downward sev-eral times.

The inter-agency Devel-opment Budget Coordina-tion Committee (DBCC), which sets the government’s macroeconomic assump-tions, has revised the growth target from 0.8 to 1.8 per-cent for this year from the original 3.1 to 4.1 percent, while the deficit ceiling was

raised to P250 billion from P102.8 billion.

The government sold additional US$750 million Republic of the Philippines (ROP) bonds last July over the programmed US$1.5 billion issued in January to help plug the budget gap

A US$500 million loan, to be used for budgetary support, from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has been approved by the lender’s Board of Directors recently and will come in by September.

With the additional bud-getary support as well as continued healthy economic activities in the country, Beltran said they were posi-tive of attaining their goal for this year.

“A better economy means that we will be able to collect more taxes which will help to reduce the bud-get deficit,” he added.

From January to July, the government registered a budget deficit of P188 bil-lion, P62 billion short of its ceiling for this year. PNA

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33MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009MoneyMoney

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It’s easy to be short-sighted in these uncertain economic times.

Each day, you scan the business section of your newspaper or look online for concrete signs that the recession is receding.

And even though the market now seems to be having more good days than bad, it still has some climbing to do.

Which means that investment returns and interest rates continue to lag – and that makes it too easy to take a narrow focus on the short term and lose sight of your overall fi nancial objectives.

It’s important to hold fast to the fundamental rules for a successful fi nancial plan because they are proven principles for weathering any economic storm.

Among the most important are:

► Smooth out market cycles by staying invested for the long term.

► Diversify your invest-ments using effective asset allocation techniques.

► Select investments that match your appetite for risk and take maximum advantage of the ‘miracle of

compounding’, and ► Practice tax-effi cient

investing – an investing rule that assumes even more importance when returns and interest rates are low.

That’s why you should: ► Make the most of

your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP).

Your RRSP is an exceptional tax-saving, nest-egg building investment – and you’ll get a maximum tax reduction by making your maximum RRSP contribution each year.

Fill up unused past contribution room for even bigger tax savings this year and a much larger nest-egg over time.

► Reduce taxes gene-rated by your non-registered investments by selecting investments that benefi t from lower tax rates – for example, investments that generate capital gains or dividends eligible for the enhanced dividend tax credit.

► Make an annual $5,000 contribution to a Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA).

Your contribution isn’t tax deductible but money and interest inside a TFSA

is tax-free and so are withdrawals, which can be made at any time for any purpose.

► Make the most of your spouse.

Look into income-splitting with your spouse, having the higher-earning spouse contribute to a spousal RRSP, and/or having the spouse with a higher marginal tax rate make a prescribed rate loan to the other spouse in a lower tax bracket.

When used correctly these ‘spousal options’ can effectively reduce a family’s taxes.

There may be other tax-reducing strategies that will work for you.

A truly effective tax plan must be an integral part of your overall fi nancial plan, investment program and life goals.

Your professional advisor can help you put it all together in the best possible way for your unique situation.

(This column presents general information only and is not a solicitation to buy or sell any investments. Contact a fi nancial advisor for specifi c advice.)

Tax effi cient investing still mattersBy INVESTORS GROUP FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.

34 MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009

3 P.M.

MONEYMONEY

The Philippine Consulate General’s Office in To-ronto, the Ottawa-based Canadian Philippines Business Council and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce-Toronto jointly hosted a reception for delegates to the Philippine Global Value Chain (PGVC) Mission. The PGVC Mission was led by the Business Processing Association of the Phil-ippines (BPA/P) - an umbrella organization repre-senting the entire Philippine outsourcing industry and composed of more than 200 companies and associations engaged in business process out-sourcing, other IT-enabled service providers and stakeholders from allied support industries (tele-communications, technology providers, staffers and trainers). BPA/P promotes the competitive ad-vantages and growth potential of the Philippines in existing and new areas of outsourcing. Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada assisted in the organization of the event in Toronto. PR

RP Global Value Chain Mission confers with Toronto businessmen

PCCT thanks supporters of trade show

Philippine Chamber of Commerce-Toronto (PCCT) president Ra-fael Nebres (with mike) thanks sponsors, ex-hibitors and members for their support to the 2009 PCCT Trade Show at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre on July 18. Nebres spoke during the PCCT ap-preciation night at the Ellesmere Community Centre on Aug. 15. With him are PCCT Board-members (from left) Ag-nes Loshusan, Ted Dayno, Edgardo Gonzales, Arlene Martirez, Elizabeth Legget, Oswald Tugadi, Cori Naron, Flor Vendiola, Cherrie Liu, Henry Sia and Steve Pagao. Photo: RAYMOND SANTOS

35MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009EntertainmentEntertainment

Ultrasound Promotions staff and executives Maribeth and Andre Sabongui (standing, 2nd and 3rd from right) join their “Men of the 80s” talents, (seated, from left) Ray-mond Lauchengco, Randy Santiago, Louie Heredia and Gino Padilla, during a photo op at the reception for the Manila-based artists whom Ultrasound Promotions flew in from Calgary for the Toronto-leg of the group’s Canada and U.S. Tour. Executive Producer Maribeth Sabongui told Manila Media Monitor that she was so happy with the au-dience reception to her company’s first concert venture, based on the congratulatory messages she received, but foremost during the concert itself. Several messages re-ceived from the audience during the August 8 Toronto performance of the “Men of the 80s” clamor to bring back the “Men of the 80s” concert in the future. Preparation is underway for Ultrasound Promotions next project, but the company would not say what is in store next for Toronto-nians. Photo: MANILA MEDIA MONITOR

The “Men of the 80s”, namely (from left) Louie Heredia, Randy Santiago, Raymond Lauchengco and Gino Padilla, thrilled fans at the John Bassett Theatre of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre on August 8, with im-personation of popular 1980s stars Boy George, Prince, Menudo’s Ricky Martin and Michael Jackson. The concert was produced for the satisfac-tion of Toronto’s Filipino community by Maribeth Sabongui through her concert production outfit, Ultrasound Promotions, Inc. Photo: MANILA MEDIA MONITOR

Men of the 80s in concert

Ultrasound Prod. and Men of the 80s

EveNJoy Productions’ executive producer Eva Agpaoa (3rd from left) thanks the spectators and her talents whom her company flew in from Manila for the staging of “Celebrity Fastbreak -- Basketball Na, May Concert Pa” at the end of the game and show at the Ryerson University Gym on August 15. Two big financial companies, namely Western Union and Scotiabank, lent big support to the production, specially considering her company’s sincerity in staging the game and show in four Canadian cities in an effort to raise funds for the projects of the Isabela Cultural Organization of Toronto, Ontario. The three other cities where “Celebrity Fastbreak” were staged are Hamilton,

Montreal and Winni-peg. Among those who saw action in the bas-ketball games were Filipino actors Bayani Agbayani, Joko Diaz, Jordan Herrera, Gene Padilla and Jay Manalo. The beautiful Janelle Jamer of “Wowowee” co-host fame, provided entertainment numbers -- together with home-grown entertainers in each of the cities that the event was held. Photo: MANILA MEDIA MONITOR

Celebrity Fastbreak in Toronto

36 MANILA MEDIA MONITOR, AUGUST 2009MANILA MEDIA MONITOR, AUGUST 2009

37MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009EntertainmentEntertainment

RP’s Mr. Pure Energy, ConcertKing ‘friendly duel’ in Toronto gig

GARY VALENCIANO and MARTIN NIEVERA

(To page 38)

The duel is on! This early, artists Gary

“Mr. Pure Energy” Valen-ciano and Martin “Concert King” Nievera are polishing up their acts as they prepare to mesmerize Toronto and Canadian fans with the stuff that made them fierce but friendly rivals in the Philip-pine concert arena.

According to JREM Productions show producer Neneng Maalihan, Gary and Martin are expected to give more of each other’s perfor-mances during their first-ever career back-to-back concert tour, dubbed ‘AS1’, at the Massey Hall, along Shuter St. east of Yonge St., on a Friday (October 30) night, at 7:30 p.m.

Gary V., in an earlier interview with Philippine Entertainment Portal (PEP), admitted that the original ti-tle of the concert series was Gary Versus Martin, until it was changed to AS 1.

“Mangyayari ang la-banan on stage, pero sa ka-kaibang paraan. (The per-formance duel will happen on stage, but in a different but more novel way),” Gary V. told PEP.

Maalihan said the artists have hinted set acts wherein

they would croon each oth-er’s music and compositions in a well-planned repertoire of solos and duets.

But if Martin would try to give justice to the energy and dancing prowess Gary V. is known for and if Gary V. would replicate Martin’s funny stage antics are alto-gether another story.

Who knows? They just might do such when they appear in the Toronto leg of their Philippine and North America concert series, Maalihan added.

“The reaction to Gary V and Martin’s upcoming concert is nearly close to magnetic. People want to

see Gary V’s fast but spiri-tually thematic song-dance numbers, while enjoying Martin’s songs and theatri-cal do-gooders; with both artists blending in their typically-Filipino romantic musical insights embedded in the hearts and minds of captive fans,” she said.

Tickets to AS1 are mov-ing out fast since these went on sale last month.

“Tickets are also avail-able through our website www.jrementertainment.com, which contains rele-vant details about the show. For convenience, Visa or Mastercard could be used

38 EntertainmentEntertainmentMANILA MEDIA MONITOR

AUGUST 2009

Joel ReclaProducer/Host

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29. Sapi31. Gapas32. Apelyidong Intsik35. Tularan37. Etiketa38. Nota ng musika40. Kalos42. Uri ng palma43. Tanggap44. Isod45. Asana47. Sigaw48. Hilo49. Lantad52. Titulo ng mayaman(Sagot sa PAHINA 32)

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RP’s Mr. ...(From page 37)

GMA-7 (Kapuso) network’s newest series Darna, starring Mar-ian Rivera, easily trampled com-petition in Philippine primetime when its pilot episode debuted on Aug. 10.

Same day overnight ratings of AGB Nielsen among Mega Manila households showed that Darna’s pilot episode raked in 44.1 rating points as against the 24.6 rating points posted by the other network’s program air-ing on the same time slot. Darna was also the highest rating primetime show nationwide on the same day.

The fantaserye – featuring some of the most talented Philippine stars – adapts the original Mars Ravelo sto-ry of Pinay superheroine Darna, and brings it to a new generation of view-ers. It also firmly establishes Marian, who now wears Darna’s signature two-piece ensemble and crown of valor, as the Queen of Philippine Primetime.

Expect Darna to reach new heights as its storyline goes into several exciting twists and turns. “Sobrang ganda ng istorya!” Marian told igma.tv’s Erick Mat-averde.

She said of Darna’s alter ego Narda, a crippled young woman with a heart of gold, “Ma-papanood nila kung paano naging Darna si Narda. (At kung bakit) nag-ing Valentina ‘yung batang Valentina. Mabubuo ‘yun lahat.”

Aside from Valentina (played by Iwa Moto), Darna will battle some of the scariest and most color-ful villains on television: Kobra (Paolo Contis), Ba-baeng Lawin (Ehra Madrigal), Babaeng Tuod (Fran-

Darna flies high

cine Prieto), Babaeng Impakta (Nadine Samonte), Babaeng Linta (Maggie Wilson), and scientist Dr. Morgan (Ricky Davao).

“I’m sure na kapag habang napapanood nila ang Darna ay hindi lang ako ang aa-bangan nila,” Marian added. “Kundi yung mga kasama ko din kasi halos lahat sila ay magagaling talaga at sobrang proud talaga ako sa cast ng Darna.” PR

JOSIE DE LEON sizzles at her recent dinner show, Celebrate Love, Life and Music at M studio. The diva reveals her love and life story thru songs. The musical direction is by Neil Huab. Photo: RAYMOND SANTOS

Josie De Leon in concert

as mode of payment, a nov-elty in local entertainment production business,” Maa-lihan said.

A composer-gospel singer, actor and producer, Gary Valenciano has in-spired his Philippine and worldwide audiences with his electrifying songs and energetic moves.

US-based songwriter-singer and actor Martin Nievera has received raves for a voice and showman-ship that have earned him a spot in the Las Vegas Strip.

While the AS1 team-up is a first for Gary V. and Martin, both have jointly appeared in Philippine tele-vision ads and in each oth-er’s concerts in the past.

Their recording studios, sister firms Universal and PolyEast came out with an AS1 album released this month. The album includes Gary V’s rendition of four of Martin’s songs and Mar-tin’s vocalization of four of Gary V’s tunes. PR

39MANILA MEDIA MONITORAUGUST 2009

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