Tel. Nos. 2110 -5516 to 18 Fax. No. 2152-9328 E-mail: marketing@pldthk.com Website: www.smartpinoy.com/hk July 2015 Volume 4 No. 6

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY02

Parenting TipsMalayo ka man sa iyong mga anak, mabibigyan mo pa rin sila ng mga payo na parang nasa ‘Pinas ka lang.

04Success Story

Lahat tayo ay may kwento ng tagumpay. Be an inspiration to others by being a good example.

12Kwentong Pinay

Sari-saring kwento na magsisilbing inspirasyon at kapupulutan ng aral ng mga OFW.

24

Alamin ang BatasBe in the know when it comes to your rights. Always seek expert advice if you have any legal issues.

06

Insi

deContinued from page 2

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY 03

Hong Kong 2014 Most Innovative MVNO

Continued from page 2

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY04PARENTING TIPSBUDGET TIPS

Iba’t-iba ang papel nating mga nanay sa tahanan. Hindi lamang tayo nagpapalaki, nag-aalaga at nag-aaruga sa ating mga anak. Naroon din ang ating tight guarding ng ating budget. Madalas, kasya naman talaga; yun lamang, attitude ang problem. Our outlook in life counts. Madami tayong maiisip na mahalaga, beneficial and practical but di mabuti ang pananaw, ayun, barado tuloy ang daloy ng kaayusan. Bitterness, reklamo at sisi ang pumapalit.

Hindi pare-pareho ang pagtingin ng mga nanay sa kung alin ang malaking budget. Maaaring maliit para sa iba, gayung “Ang laki ah!” sabi ng iba. Ang pinakamahalaga ay ang ating pananaw sa paggasta. Pitong tips ang aking ibibigay para ang ating budget ay talagang mahila natin - stretch your peso, ‘ika nga: 1. Ilista ang ating paggastos. Halimbawa, pagkain:

2,000 pesos. Kapag nakita mong nakalista, magkakaroon ka ng idea kung ano ang pwede mong bawasan - hindi yung hangga’t may laman ang wallet, hala, sige; bukas, wala na. Kasusweldo lang ngayon, two days after, “swipe me” na naman tayo gamit ang plastic money (credit card). Pati tuloy mga bata nabubukas ang isip sa utang. Hindi po ito magandang modelo sa kanila.

2. I-manage ang pagbili gamit ang credit cards. Napakatempting at halos ipamigay ang mga credit card. Sa isang buwan lang, ilan ang tumatawag sa akin na parang kailangang-kailangan mo ng maraming credit cards. Madaming promises para ma-entice tayo.Pero, kapag nasa iyo na ang card na iyan, that is the start of a new discipline. Di ko sinabing magkaka-problema ka sigurado. Dapat mag-start ng new discipline sa ating sarili. Nakakatukso kapag may plastic money - biruin mo sa isang napakaliit na card, pwede kang bumili ng halagang P20,000.00 o P50,000.00!

3. Magsimula (kung hindi pa natin ginagawa) o ipagpatuloy pa natin (kung ginagawa naman natin ito) ang ating savings. Kahit paunti-unti lang, kung mayroon tayong jar na maliit o anupamang lalagyan. Ang layunin ng pagkakaroon ng regular savings ay hindi lang para pagdating ng panahon ay mayroong extra cash, bagamat isa iyon, pero ang pinakamaganda dito ay magkaroon tayo ng habit o ng pag-uugali na hindi lahat ng ating pera ay ating uubusin.“Mommy Bessie naman, kulang pa nga...” Kapag lagi natin sinasabing kulang, talagang kukulangin; pero pag nagkaroon tayo ng checklist, makikita natin na “Aba, may sobra pa!” If we trust the Lord and obey His calling, siempre, laging provide si Lord for our needs. Promise po ni Lord sa Psalm 34:10, “Young lions may go hungry or even starve, but if you trust the Lord, you

will never miss out on anything good.”4. I-check ang mga appliances at mga gamit sa

bahay. Minsan grounded ang appliance - malakas yan sa kuryente. O kaya naman ang ating electric connection ay kailangan nang i-check up. Kung tayo ay nakatira sa isang bahay nang mahigit sampung taon na, kailangang i-check-up na ang wirings nito. O baka mayroon tayong leaking faucet na hindi natin napapansin: dagdag-gastusin ito. Gayundin sa ating communication: text tayo nang text, minsan hindi naman kailangan. Ang salitang “K” daw, ilang daan libo sa isang araw kung pumasok.

5. Planuhin ang ating pagkain. Tamang dami, tamang quality at tamang pagpili. Madalas ay sobra-sobra ang ating inihahain kaya minsan yung P100.00 na meal na pwedeng pagkasyahin sa lima o anim na miyembro ng pamilya dahil sobrang dami sa mga kinakailangan, ay kinakapos. Halimbawa, isang tasang kanin lang talaga ang kailangan natin, dadamihan pa natin. O kaya yung 15 grams lang ng meat and half cup of vegetables, magkano lang iyon? Kaso ang tingin natin dapat napakarami. Kaya mayroon tayong unnecessary fat. Susunod namang problema ay magkakasakit tayo. More gastos sa gamot.Magluto ng simple - one dish meals lang, nandoon na ang gulay at isda o karne. Isang lutuan, madali pa at less gas or electricity while cooking. Tayong mga Inay, smart ha. Huwag titingnan na kulang. Mag-isip: ano ba ang magagawa natin sa dumarating na blessing ng ating Panginoon?

6. Subukang mag-exercise para naman kumonti ang ating pamasahe - lakad-lakad ng kaunti at lalakas ang ating pangangatawan.

7. Priorities: needs versus wants. Kung hindi naman natin kailangan, huwag nang bilhin. Sa ating meal, kung mayroon nang isang fruit, tama na iyan; hindi na iba-iba pa. Minsan, mayroon pa tayong dessert na kakaiba - leche flan halimbawa. Naku, pampataas pa iyan ng ating calories. Tama na yung saging: simple lang, mura pa at harmless.

Sa mga nabanggit, ang pinakamahalaga ay inuuna natin si Lord. Do we give back what He owns and serve Him with the blessings He gives? Susi sa tunay na pagpapala ay isang pamumuhay na inuuna ang Diyos at ang kanyang mga nais na ipagawa. Ayon sa Psalm 16:11, ito ay aani: “You will show me the path of life...fullness of joy...pleasures forevermore.” (NKJV)

Abangan sa susunod na issue: “Dealing with Lies”. For any comments, send your message to 152869.

Source: http://getentrepreneurial.com/

Dr. Bessie Rios

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY 05BUHAY SPIRITWALThe Good Shepherd

Greg M. Matubis Jr.

We may have experience challenges, struggles and difficulties in life but knowing that we have a “shepherd” who is in control of everything and guides our path would bring us back to the right perspective. Jesus tells us in John 10:14-15 that “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep knows me – just as the Father knows me and I know the Father – and I lay down my life for the sheep.”

This verse is a profound statement of how the Lord loves us so much that He choose to risk His life for us. It is a declaration that He is not only a shepherd but a “good” shepherd who has a unique character and divine purpose. Jesus has an inherent goodness and righteousness that guides, protects and nurtures His flock. He is a true and faithful shepherd who willingly gives up His life for us.

In biblical times, a shepherd is expected to take care of the sheep as the owner would. Sheep are defenseless and totally dependent upon the shepherd. They are always in danger and therefore the shepherd must keep an eye on them. However, not all shepherds are willing to protect the sheep in times of danger or when wolves appear and attack them. Some shepherds may abandon the sheep to protect themselves rather than the sheep.

A good shepherd sleeps where the sheep sleep. He does not abandon the sheep. Instead he leads or drives the sheep where they need to go. He ensures the sheep do not stray that far and stay within the pasture lest they would be in danger. When the sheep falls into a ravine or get stuck in a ditch, the shepherd rescue them and heal their wounds.

Without the shepherd, the sheep wander aimlessly and shall be vulnerable to predators. They cannot survive without the shepherd as they cannot take care of themselves.

Jesus has the characteristics of a true and good shepherd. He enjoys shepherding and develops a personal relationship with us. He teaches us to recognize His voice above all else. He guides and leads us to the right path. He knows that sometimes we do not see things from His perspective hence we stray but He understood our weaknesses. He is patient with our shortcomings and is willing to take us back to the pasture despite our failures.

Jesus laid down His life on the cross to bring salvation to us. Though He was the Son of God, He did not choose to save himself but come to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many (Matthew 20:28). He did not spare His life for the sheep. Through His willing sacrifice, He made salvation possible to those who believe in Him. He laid down His life not only for the Jews but for the Gentiles like us so that there shall be one flock and one shepherd (John 10:16).

We do not need to worry about our future or keep on strategizing our lives. The Lord is our shepherd and if we knew His heart, we only need to keep our faith, surrender everything and follow Him. This way, we are confident that we will experience breakthroughs and keep that eternal perspective burning in our lives.

Abangan sa susunod na issue: “Spiritual Marathon”. For any comments, please text your message to 152869.

Source: http://www.biblestudy1.com/

“ “Jesus has the characteristics of a true and good shepherd. He enjoys shepherding and develops a personal relationship with us. He teaches us to recognize His voice above all else.

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY06

Ayon sa Korte (Catedrilla vs Lauron, April 2013), kahit isa lamang sa mga may-ari ng lupa ay maaaring magsampa ng kasong ejectment upang bawiin ang lupa sa kadahilanang ang kaso ay itinuturing na para sa benepisyo ng lahat ng may-ari. Hindi kailangang lahat ng may-ari ay magsampa ng kaso upang bawiin ang lupa. Ang isa lamang sa mga nagmamay-ari ay sapat na upang bawiin ang lupa. Sa nasabing kaso ni Arthur, malinaw na kinilala niya na isa lamang siya sa mga nagmamay-ari nang nasabing lupa. Dahil dito, walang basehan upang ibasura ng Korte ang sinampang kaso sa kadahilanang si Arthur lamang ang tanging nagsampa ng kaso.

MGA ARAL: 1. Kahit isa lamang sa mga may-ari ng lupa ay sapat na

upang bawiin ang lupang inagaw. 2. Hindi kailangang lahat ng mga may-ari ang

magsampa ng demanda (ejectment) laban sa umaangkin ng lupa.

3. Sa kasong “ejectment” ang tanging kailangan lamang patunayan ng nagsampa ng kaso ay ang pisikal or material na possession nang nasabing lupa at hindi ang pagmamay-ari nang nasabing lupa.

Ang artikulong ito ay para lamang sa pangkalahatang

kaalaman at hindi maaaring maituring na legal na payo. Kumunsulta sa isang abogado kung may legal na pangangailangan. Para sa iyong mga kumento, katanungan o legal issues na gusto ninyong mailathala sa kolum na ito, please send your message to 152869 or e-mail us at marketing@pldthk.com

ALAMIN ANG BATASAkin Yan

Si Rey Cruz ay may-ari nang isang maliit na lupa sa Iloilo City. Nang siya ay pumanaw, minana ng kanyang asawang si Maria at kanilang mga anak na sina Arthur, Lourdes at Charlie ang nasabing lupa. Makalipas ang ilang taon, pinahintulutan ng pamilyang Cruz na hiramin o gamitin ni Andrea Juan ang nasabing lupa. Nagtayo si Andrea ng bahay sa nasabing lupa.

Noong 2005, sinubukang bawiin ni Arthur ang nasabing lupa mula kay Andrea. Tumanggi si Andrea na isauli ang lupa sa paniniwalang hindi na sina Arthur at pamilya niya ang nagmamay-ari ng lupa. Ilang araw na nagpasensya si Arthur at pamilya niya sa pagmamatigas ni Andrea na isauli ang lupa.

Nang lumaon, napilitan si Arthur, bilang isa sa mga nagmamay-ari, na magsampa sa Korte ng kasong ejectment upang bawiin ang kanilang lupa. Hiniling ni Andrea na ibasura ng Korte ang nasabing kaso sa paniniwalang hindi sumama sina Maria at iba pang kapatid ni Arthur sa pagdedemanda laban sa kanya. Ayon kay Andrea, kailangang kasama ang buong pamilyang Cruz sa demanda dahil silang lahat ang sinasabing may-ari ng lupa at hindi lamang si Arthur.

Tama ba si Andrea sa paniniwalang kinakailangang lahat ng mga nagmamay-ari ng lupa ang magsampa ng kasong ejectment?

Mali. Ayon sa Article 487 ng Civil Code, kahit isa lamang sa mga nagmamay-ari ng lupa ay maaaring magsampa ng kasong ejectment laban sa taong umaangkin sa kanilang lupa. Hindi kailangang lahat ng mga may-ari ang magsampa ng kaso laban sa umaangkin ng lupa.

Atty. Alex A. Rios

Source: http://samalbahaykubo.files.wordpress.com

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY

0707

The primary reason we should be investing is because we will not always have the ability to generate income. It is said that during our lifetime, we can generate income in two ways — ‘Man at Work’ or ‘Money at Work.’ When we have properly invested our money, it can begin to work for us.

The word investment is very broad—it can have many meanings and a lot of people have different views on what an investment is. Investments may pertain to many items; some are financial, some are not. For example, a business can be considered as an investment, especially those that are needed to start and operate a business enterprise.

Those that provide income, capital growth or both in the financial context can also be considered as investments. You can also invest in yourself by improving your skills to earn more or go into business. Investments can also be through securities more commonly known as investment instruments, which we will be covering in this chapter.

How you invest will ultimately dictate the quality of your future life. Are you ready to learn what investing is and how you can invest for the future?WHAT IS AN INVESTMENT?

Wikipedia.com defines investment as “a term with several closely-related meanings in business management, finance and economics, related to saving or deferring consumption. An asset is usually purchased, or equivalently a deposit is made in a bank, in hopes of getting a future return or interest from it. The word originates in the Latin ‘vestis,’ meaning garment, and refers to the act of putting things (money or other claims to resources) into others’ pockets.”

An investment is the commitment of funds made in expectation of some positive rate of return. If the investment is properly undertaken, the return will be in proportion to the risk the investor assumes.INFLATION AND WHY IT MATTERS

Inflation is the loss of your money’s purchasing power. It is a hurdle every investor must keep in mind. Most, if not all, low risk investments are growing at yields lower than the inflation rate. Money’s real value is not all about the absolute peso value, but rather on its ability to buy goods

and services. If the cost of goods and services increases faster than the growth of your low risk investments, you will be at a great disadvantage.

Inflation is what we finance geeks refer to as invisible risk. The common barometer we use to measure inflation is the Consumer Price Index or CPI. However, the CPI does not hold all the items we spend our money on as they only reflect basic commodities. There are many items we spend our money on which is not included in the CPI, and some of those have much higher inflationary effect such as the cost of education. Let’s say CPI today is at 3%, but you have children who go to school where the average increase in tuition fees hovers between 8 to 12%. Your effective personal inflation rate will definitely be higher than CPI’s 3%. While it is cumbersome to compute for your own personal inflation rates, I add 2 to 3% above the reported CPI as a good estimation of my inflation. If CPI today is 3%, my personal inflation then becomes 6% which is a hurdle rate I use for my investments.

Randell Tiongson, RFP is an author, trainer and columnist on personal finance. To read his personal finance blogs, visit www.randelltiongson.com

A Day in the Life of an OFW HeroWHY LONG TERM SAVINGS AND INVESTMENTS?

Randell Tiongson, RFP

Source: http://www.randelltiongson.com/

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY08Beauty TipsSunburn

Rachel M. Manuel

Summer na naman! Ito ang panahon kung kailan pinakamatindi ang sikat ng araw. Ito din ang panahon upang makisaya sa ibat-ibang outdoor activities gaya ng beach party, barbeque party, pool party o di kaya naman ay mag- picnic at tumambay sa park kasama ang ating pamilya, mga mahal sa buhay at mga kaibigan. Hindi natin alintana ang sikat ng araw na tumatama sa ating balat na nagiging dahilan ng sunburn.

Ano nga ba ang sunburn? Ito ay ang pamumula at pagkasunog ng ating balat dahil sa matinding exposure sa ultraviolet sun rays. Ito ang isa sa mga sanhi ng pagkasira ng ating balat. Subalit may mga paraan upang maiwasan at mapangalagaan pa rin ang ating balat kahit tayo ay nakababad sa araw. Ito ay sa pamamagitan ng mga sumusunod:• Gumamit ng sunscreen na hindi bababa sa SPF 30, maglagay ng sapat na dami ng

sunscreen sa parte na katawan na natatamaan ng sikat ng araw, ulitin ito pagkalipas ng 2 oras.

• Maglagay ng sunscreen bago at pagkatapos mag-swimming. • Gumamit din ng lip balm na may sunscreen.• Mag suot ng sombrero at iba pang protective clothing. • Iwasan ang paglabas sa oras na pinakamatindi ang sikat ng araw, ito sa pagitan ng 10:00

AM to 4:00 PM. • Mag suot ng sunglasses na may UV protection.Ngunit minsan, kahit na ano pang pag-iingat natin ay hindi pa rin ito lubos na maiiwasan.

Maaaring subukan ang mga pangunang lunas para maibsan ang hindi magandang epektong dulot ng sunburn:• Maligo ng malamig na tubig. Magbabad sa loob ng 15-20 minutes para bumaba ang

temperatura ng balat. Iwasan muna ang paggamit ng sabon at pagkuskos ng balat.• Keep yourself hydrated. Sunburned skin is dehydrated skin kaya siguraduhin ang pag-inom

ng mas maraming tubig para bumilis ang paggaling ng balat.• Kung nakakaramdam ng pananakit, uminom ng ibufrofen o di kaya naman aspirin.

Makakatulong itong maiwasan at mapalala ang pamumula, pamamaga at paltos ng balat.• Kung sakaling magkaroon ng paltos sa balat, balutin ito ng tuyong bandage para maiwasan

ang infection. Palitan ito ng dalawang beses sa loob ng isang araw.• Gumamit ng moisturizing cream sa parte ng balat na walang paltos para guminhawa ang

pakiramdam.• Magsuot ng damit na bahagyang maluwag sa katawan na gawa sa koton.• Kumunsulta sa doktor kung nakakaramdam ng matinding init sa katawan, dehydration at

malubhang reaksyon ng katawan katulad ng mga sumusunod:o Pagkahiloo Mabilis na pulso at tibok ng pusoo Sobrang pagkauhaw o Pagsusuka, lagnat at panlalamig o Pananakit ng mata at pagiging sensitibo sa liwanago Malubhang paltos sa balat

Ang balat ang pinakamalaking organ ng ating katawan, nararapat lang na pangalagaan natin ito. Ngayong alam niyo na ang dapat gawin para maiwasan ang sunburn at ang mga panguhahing lunas nito, go out and enjoy. Beat the summer heat!

Source: Gajus/iStock/Thinkstock Source: Jacob Wackerhausen/iStock/Thinkstock

SMART Pinoy BUDGET LOAD

PASALOADSa SMART Pinoy, pwede nang mag pasa ng load sa iyong kaibigan

o kamag-anak sa patingi-tinging halaga.

I-text ang SMART Pinoy Mobile number na papasahan <space>Amount and send to 1528808

EX. 90990990 5 send to 1528808

Available in $2, $5 & $7

*$0.12 sending fee will be charged per Pasaload transaction. Consume load within 24 hours

SMART Pinoy Recharge Vouchers are available in $20, $50 and $100 denominations

Two ways to Top up the RV: Dial 152831 + <16-digit PIN> and press CALL orDial *143* + <16-digit PIN> + # and press CALL

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY

0909Kantahan, Tugtugan at iba paMusika at Teatro (Part 1)

Eric Narvaez

Magandang pagbati muli sa ating mga kababayan dito sa Hong Kong at ramdam na natin ang sunod- sunod na pag-iba ng panahon. Tag-ulan na muli at ito ay hudyat na patapos na ang tag-init at marami na namang bagyo ang darating sa atin. Pero sa akin ito ay bagyo ng masasayang pagpapala sa ating lahat.

Ngayon ay ibabahagi ko sa inyo ang isa sa aking propesyon at tunay ngang ito ang isa sa mga dahilan kung bakit ang mga Pilipino ay nangunguna sa larangan ng entertainment. Musika sa Teatro o ang tinatawag nilang Musical Theatre. Kilalang-kilala natin si Lea Salonga, Leo Valdes, Rachelle Ann Go at marami pang iba na nangunguna sa larangan ng Teatro sa iba’t ibang bansa. At kabilang ako bilang Direktor sa Musika at Teatro dito sa Hong Kong. Ano nga ba ito? Hindi ito madali kung ikukumpara sa ordinaryong pagkanta lang o pagvi-videoke. Ito ay hinahaluan ng pag-arte, pagsayaw at lalo na ang pagkanta. Kadalasan, nasisimula ito sa extra curicular activities natin sa eskwela hanggang nakakahiligan. Mataas ang level nito pagdating sa musika. Nagme-memorize ka, nag-aaral ng kanta na hindi madaling pag-aralan ngunit maganda.

Kung ang musika sa teatro ang magiging propesyon ng isang indibidwal, mas maraming oportunidad ang nakalaan sa kanya. Malaki din ang mga bayad sa mga artist ng Musical or Broadway artist. At kadalasan sa ibang bansa sila nagkakaroon ng show. Ang Broadway sa

New York o maging sa Disneyland kung saan maraming Pilipino ang nangungunang artist sa mga palabas nito. Hindi lang artist kundi mga musicians sa Broadway. Mga Pilipino din ang nangunguna dito.

Paano nga ba tayo magsisimula sa propesyon na ito? Una, walang pinipiling edad ito pero ang mga character sa teatro ay kailangan nasa iba’t-ibang edad. Pangalawa, kailangan excellent ka sa pag-aaral ng character at magaling umarte hindi lang drama kundi sa lahat na aspeto ng acting. Ito ang pinakamahirap - ang pagsamasamahin ang tatlong aspeto nito: Acting, Singing at Dancing. Ang pangatlo ay dapat ito ay kahiligan mo. Manood at maging inspirasyon ang maka-witness ng musicals. Ngayon ay marami ito sa YouTube. Maraming klase ito tulad ng The Sound of Music, The Little Mermaid, Legally Blonde, The Phantom of Opera at ngayon sa ating bansa, Rack of Aegis.

Sana ay maging ispirasyon ito sa ating lahat para kung hindi man tayo ay maipaalam natin ito sa ating mga anak. Ako ay natutuwa dahil sa mga susunod na palabas na aming itatanghal ay marami mga batang Pilipino dito sa Hong Kong ang nag-audition at tunay ngang kamangha-mangha ang kanilang galing. For Guitar, Voice and Piano Lessons, maaaring tumawag sa 91417703 para ngayong Summer season.

Abangan sa susunod na issue: “Musika at Teatro (Part II)”.For comments, text your message to 152869.

Source: http://www.txstate.edu/

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY

Lovingly Yours, Tita KerryJun Paragas

Dearest Tita Kerry,Tawagin niyo na lang akong Marlyn, 60 years old, biyuda at may tatlong anak sa Pilipinas. Maaga akong nawalan ng asawa Tita Kerry kaya mas lalo akong nagpursige na maiahon sa hirap ang pamilya ko at mapag-aral ko ang tatlo kong anak sa maayos na paaralan. Mag-isa kong iginapang Tita kaya sa loob ng 23 years ko dito ay bihira akong makauwi ng matagal para maalagaan ang mga anak ko noon.Ang pinagpapasalamat ko na lang ay hindi sila pinabayaan ng nanay at tatay ko at iyon ang naging katuwang ko para mapalaki sila ng tama. Dalawang magkasunod na babae ang anak ko at bunso ko ang lalaki Tita Kerry. Napagtapos ko silang lahat sa pag-aaral at halos lahat sila ay may asawa na at may mga apo na ako sa kanilang lahat at hindi rin maiwasan na ako ang naging batuhan nila ng hingi ng tulong para sa pag-aaral ng kani-kanilang anak at para hindi magkaselosan ay lahat sila ay tinutulungan ko sa abot ng aking makakaya.Nagtataka ang amo kong babae sa akin na bakit parang hindi na ako nawalan ng problema at suliraning pinansyal dahil kadalasan ay sa kanila ako nanghihiram ng pera at naa-advance ko sa kanila ang dapat kong sahurin. Dumating din ang pagkakataon na nabaon ako sa utang dahil kapag tinulungan mo ang isa ay magseselos ang dalawa kong anak at kung anu-anong di magandang salita ang maririnig at kadalasan nga ay naiiyak ako sa kanilang pag-uugali at bakit pa nila ako pinaghahanapan ganong pare-pareho ko naman silang natutulungan.Dumaing ang panganay ko sa akin na baka pwede ko siyang maihanap ng amo dito sa Hong Kong dahil ang sinasahod niya sa trabaho ay kulang pa sa kanilang pangangailangan kaya ang ginawa ko ay nangutang ako sa bangko ng pang placement fee niya at naihanap ko siya ng amo dito at yung salitang utang o babayaran niya ako ay nailista lahat iyon sa tubig. Hindi ko na hinangad na mabayaran pa niya ako basta sa akin malaking ginhawa na iyon para sa akin dahil makakatulong na siya ng maayos sa kanyang pamilya.Ang mahirap kapag nagkakaroon ng gusot sa kanilang mag-asawa ay ako rin ang gumagawa ng paraan para magkaayos sila dahil iba ang ugali ng panganay ko Tita Kerry at alam kong masyado siyang matalas magsalita at sutil ito at palaban palagi. Maging sa akin Tita Kerry walang respeto kung minsan at kapag pinupuna ko ang ugali niya ay hindi ako kikibuin at ako ang susuko at hihingi ng tawad sa kanya.Dumating ang sandali na ang pangalawa kong anak na babae naman ang nagpumilit na makapag-trabaho din dito at biglang nag-resign sa trabaho niya at ang sabi sa akin ay tulungan ko rin daw siya na makarating sa Hong Kong gaya ng ate niya

at para daw mapag-aral niya nang maayos ang dalawa niyang anak. Kaya ang ginawa ko Tita Kerry ay humiram ako ng pera sa amo ko at sinabi ko ang totoo na kukunin ko ang anak ko dito sa Hong Kong at gusto niyang maging DH din. Natawa ang amo ko sa akin at para akong napahiya sa amo kong babae Tita Kerry at sabi nya sa akin “Marlyn why you spend so much for their study? and now you want them to be like you, it sounds crazy right!” Napaiyak ako Tita at sinabi ko sa kanya ang totoo na “as a mother I want the best for them but they have families now and it’s so hard to live in the Philippines especially when you have kids going to school. Yes! it happens to me but what can I do, they are the ones who decide to work here, not me!”Naintindihan naman nag amo ko ang explanation ko Tita kaya pinautang niya rin ako at pati siya ay naaawa sa akin at sinabi niya pa nga na “I pity you Marlyn! You’re just lucky that you have a good employer like us but we are lucky also to have you!” Napaiyak ako Tita Kerry at napayakap sa kanya at humagulgol ako ng iyak na para bang awang-awa ako sa sarili ko Tita at naghahanap ng kakampi. Hindi alam iyan ng mga anak ko na kinakapalan ko lang ang mukha ko sa mga amo ko.Ang sa akin para walang selosan dahil napaalis ko ang panganay niyang kapatid ay ganoon na rin ang tulong na binigay ko sa kanya. Ako rin ang nagbayad sa amo ko ng lahat at ni singkong duling ay walang binigay sa akin ang pangalawa kong anak gaya rin ng ate niya. Ang sa akin na lang sana ay mapabuti sila at akala ko ay tapos na ako sa problema ko. Wala pang dalawang taon na nakakaalis ang pangalawa kong anak ay ang anak ko namang lalaki ang lumapit sa akin at di ko rin napa-hindian dahil nagpunta siya ng Dubai at doon ngayon nagwo-work. Ako rin ang gumastos sa kanyang placement fee at pinangutang ko pa dito iyan dahil noong sinasabi ko sa dalawa kong anak na tulungan naman ang bunso nilang kapatid para makaalis ng Dubai ay may kanya-kanya na rin daw silang problema at ako na daw ang bahala kay Jon - sa kanilang kapatid. Ang mabuti lang sa bunso ko ay ito ang pinakamabait kong anak at wala kong naririnig sa kanya na anumang masasamang salita at sa kanya ko lang naririnig ang “Salamat ‘Nay I Love You” at siya lang ang bumati sa akin nitong Mother’s Day at pinost niya pa sa facebook ang message niya sa akin “To the greatest mother on earth, I LOVE YOU!” Kaya tuwang-tuwa ako noon Tita Kerry at yung pinang placement ko sa kanya ay binalik niya sa akin at nagsabi siya na “Inay swertihin lang ako dito at magtuloy- tuloy lang itong work ko dito, pauuwiin na kita at sa bahay ka titira. Kami ang bahala sa iyo ni Diding”, ang misis niya. Alam mo ba Tita na nakatanggap pa ako ng hindi magandang salita sa panganay ko at sa pangalawa

10

kong anak dito sa Hong Kong. “Paanong di gaganyan iyan sa inyo eh siya ang apple of the eye niyo palagi at siya ang pinagpagawa niyo ng bahay samantalang kami tiniis niyo.” Ang sakit-sakit ng loob ko Tita Kerry dahil ginawa ko lang na irenovate ang bahay ni Jon dahil sira-sira na at mana ko pa ito sa magulang ko at dahil siya lang ang nagka-interes na tumira sa bahay ko. Sa totoo lang Tita Kerry, hindi ako kinibo at binate ng dalawa kong anak ngayong Mother’s Day at samang-sama ang loob ko Tita habang nagdadasal nga ako sa simbahan noon ay tumutulo ang luha ko at nagtatanong ako kay Jesus “Lord! Saan ako nagkulang sa dalawa kong anak? Masama ba akong nanay at lahat naman ng gusto nila naibibigay ko sa kanila. Bakit po nila ito ginagawa sa akin?Sa totoo lang Tita Kerry, kahit nitong birthday ko noong April 18 ay hindi nila ako binati at tinikis nila akong magkapatid. Buti na lang ang bunso kong si Jon ay hindi ako nakalimutan at sabi niya nga ay “Nay binati ka na ba nila Ate? Lalabas kayo siguro diyan to celebrate your birthday!” Kaya napaiyak ako sa kanya Tita Kerry at nagpasalamat ako na binati niya at nasabi ko sa kanya na hindi ako kinakausap ng mga kapatid niya dito at parang galit sila sa akin na hindi ko naman malaman ang dahilan. Napaiyak ang anak ko sa akin at kakausapin niya daw ang dalawa niyang kapatid at huli na ng malaman ko na nagaaway-away na sila ng dahil sa akin at nag-message pa ang panganay ko na “Nagsumbong pa kayo kay bunso, wala kayong kwentang ina, ayan nagaaway-away na kami dahil sa inyo!” Iyak ako ng iyak Tita Kerry at hindi ko alam ang gagawin ko. May sandaling natitigilan ako at gusto ko ng wakasan ang buhay ko para matapos na rin ang galit nila sa akin. Siguro kapag wala na ako ay magiging masaya na sila.May sandali rin na nag-iisip ako na kawawa naman ang bunso ko at may nagmamahal pa sa akin at gusto kong ipaayos ang lahat ng maiiwan ko para sa kanya. Pwede ko bang gawin iyon Tita na aalisin sila sa SSS ko at pati sa insurance ko? Tama lang ba ang gagawin ko dahil natatakot akong maging api-apihan din ang bunso ko at pag-awayan nila ang maiiwan ko dahil ngayon pa lang ay nakikita ko na ang pag-uugali nila.Sana ay mapayuhan mo ako sa lalong madaling panahon Tita Kerry at tatanawin kong malaking utang na loob sa iyo ang lahat. Gusto ko sanang sabihin sa iyo ito ng personal kaya lang hindi kaya ng dibdib ko at naiiyak ako at ayaw kong umiyak sa harapan mo.

Yours Truly,Marlyn of Tseung Kwan O

Source: http://thebodyisnotanapology.com/

Payo sa sulat ni Djobelle (Letter-sender in June 2015)Dearest Djobelle,Una sa lahat ang aking taus pusong pasasalamat sa iyong pagsulat at pagtitiwala. Nawa’y sumaiyo ang pagpapala ng Maykapal at nawa’y hipuin ng kanyang mapagpalang kamay ang iyong isipan at damdamin ng magkaroon ka ng kapanatagan at kapayapaan.Ipagdasal mo ang kaluluwa ni Roy at humingi ka ng tawad sa kanya kahit sa iyong panalangin ng taus sa iyong puso. Ipagtirik mo siya ng kandila at ipagdasal nang sa ganun ay mawala ang sumbat sa iyong budhi at sumulat ka sa kanyang mga magulang at humingi ka ng kapatawaran at sabihin mo ang lahat, ang takot sa dibdib mo at ang tunay mong nararamdaman noon. The truth will set you free at magagawa mo ito sa tamang panahon na ipagkakaloob sa iyo ng ating Poong Hesus.Hangga’t andyan sa puso at isip mo ang sumbat ng mga nagawa mo ay ikaw pa rin ang magdadala ng bigat kaya kailangan mong humingi ng tawad sa lahat ng mga taong iyong nasaktan sa pamamagitan ng panalangin dahil hindi mo pa sila pwedeng kausapin dahil sariwa pa ang mga pangyayari. Kung naging tapat ka lamang at hindi mo tinakasan ang lahat at hinarap mo ito ng buong tapang ay hindi sana ito mangyayari. You have to move on at harapin ang realidad ng buhay. Huli na para pagsisihan natin ang anumang ating naging desisyon. Kailangan mo na lang itong harapin ngayon at magagawa mo ang lahat ng ito kung buo rin sa puso ang pagtanggap sa lahat. Huwag mo ng sisihin pa ang sarili mo at tama ka rin naman na mahirap talagang makisama sa taong hindi mo naman tunay na mahal at ikaw din ang mahihirapan. Sana lamang ay naging tapat ka sa lahat at sinabi mo ang katotohanan dahil ang katotohanan lamang ang makapagpapalaya sa ating lahat.Dalangin ko ang kapanatagan ng iyong isipan at damdamin at nawa’y mapatawad ka ng mga taong iyong nasaktan at maunawaan din nila ang iyong naging desisyon at damdamin.Lubos na Sumasaiyo,Tita Kerry

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY 11RECIPIENT OF

Dear Smart Pinoy,

Thank you very much sa Smart Pinoy at Pinoy Tayo Sanman. Sa tulong po ninyo, nakapag-enrol ng first semester ang second year college kong anak na si Vincent dahil binayaran ninyo ang tuition at miscellaneous fees pati na ang additional allowance niya. Masaya na po siyang pumapasok ngayon sa Bicol University in Legaspi City dahil sinagot ninyo ang kahilingan ko sa Wish Upon a Smart. Many thanks and God bless!

Respectfully yours,

Myrna O. Embudo

Thank You Letter

Request from Myrna O. Embudo (54th Recipient)

Dear Wish Upon a Smart,

Good day po sa inyo. Ako ay nanalangin na bigyang katuparan ang wish ko na mabigyang pang-enrol ang anak ko na second year college kasi po kapos talaga ang pamilya ko. Baon po ako sa utang kasi kamamatay lang ng mama ko last November 2014. Nangutang ako sa bangko at sa tao. Nagre-loan po ako kaya malaki pa ang binabayaran ko. Wala naman pong regular na trabaho ang asawa ko.

Maraming salamat. Hope and pray na matulungan ninyo ako kasi sa May 25 na po ang enrollment niya. Thanks again and God bless!

Gumagalang,

Myrna O. EmbudoDeep Water Bay

Myrna Embudo, 2nd from left, recipient of Wish Upon a Smart Program of Smart Pinoy and Pinoy Tayo Sanman. The Program sponsored her son, Vincent’s tuition, allowance and other school fees for the first semester, S/Y 2015-16. Edith Gomez, General Manager of PLDT Hong Kong, 3rd from left, awarded the grant during the Philippine Tourism Festival held at Chater Road, Central on 7 June 2015. Francis Ita-as, left, Sales and Marketing Manager of SUN Cellular and Jun Paragas, right, Smart Pinoy endorser, witnessed the awarding.

Vincent Embudo is now enrolled as a 2nd year College student taking up B.S. in Information Technology at Bicol University in Legaspi City for the first semester, S/Y 2015-16 courtesy of Smart Pinoy and Pinoy Tayo Sanman.

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY12Success StoryThe Laid-Back Modir

Jalilo Dela Torre

The boat ride was short, and a minute or two after we pushed off from the pumpboat parking shore in Tambak, New Washington, Aklan, we could see a stately white-painted house in the middle of an island. I was with Norberto and Marlyn Buyoc, 2014 MOFYA regional winners for Region 6, Ron Bartolome, Regional OWWA Director, and OWWA staffer Shelley Solis. We had taken the normal route from Iloilo earlier in the day—a route I had taken hundreds of times in my youth—and driven into the Buyoc’s expansive house-cum-business-base complex just before lunch, which consisted of the usual fare from a host who happened to own probably the largest string of fishponds on Panay Island: prawns, shrimps, bangus, shellfish, etc. The table groaned from the weight of so much delectable seafood our appetite was dampened by the sheer volume. I had just done the video interview of Norberto, and we were on a quick ocular visit of some of his other businesses.

Norberto Buyoc pointed at the house, “That used to be the vacation house of the family of former COMELEC Commissioner Flores Bayot. As a small child, I used to look at it from afar and I wondered whether I would ever set foot on it. Now, I own it.”

He mentioned his ownership of the house rather matter-of-factly, without a hint of boasting. It was not so long ago that his own family was struggling to make both ends meet. Norberto is as simple as rural folks from Aklan come, but he’s the kind who never allowed his wealth affect his way of thinking, nor how he regards other people less fortunate.

Norberto or Bert was only 7 years old when the pressure to earn enough money to support his 8 brothers and sisters in college left him with no choice but to help his mother with her rice trading business. His parents and Bert worked hard, and lived a frugal life, just so they could send money and good food to his siblings studying in Manila. The primary school was located just behind the marketplace so it was not difficult for Bert to divide his time between his classes and their rice trading business. Bert’s sacrifice was not a cause for him to begrudge his brothers and sisters, for when it was his turn to pursue a college degree, he was supported by his siblings, who all turned out to become professionals—a doctor, a nurse, medical technologist, lawyer, architect and seaman. Between the earnings of his father who

was a farmer and a miller, the family’s rice-trading business and the support of his brothers and sisters, Bert did not have to experience the hardships of most poor probinsiyano who studied in Manila.

After obtaining a civil engineering degree from Mapua, where he met his wife-to-be Marlyn, Bert worked for one year in a construction firm in Manila as a cadet engineer, and in 1980 decided to go to Libya. He worked for a contractor of Occidental Libya Oil and Gas in Tripoli and Zuwetina, as a supervisor for pipeline maintenance. Work was good and he was paid well, but there were other reasons which cut short his stay in Libya.

After the souring of relations between Libya and the US, due to the support of terrorism worldwide by the Libyan regime under Col. Muamar Khadafi, economic sanctions were imposed, particularly on imports of Libyan oil, leading to shortage of most basic supplies. After the sanctions began to take its toll, most of the Western expats working at Occidental beat a hasty retreat, unable to endure the harshness of everyday life in Libya where sometimes they had to queue for the most basic of necessities, like bread, rice and gasoline. They left Bert to become the modir, or the boss/manager.

Not entirely fluent in Arabic and still not fully familiar with Libyan culture and attitudes, Bert had a hard time managing his team, which consisted of 35 Filipinos and 20 Indians. Middle Eastern employers and their managers know the centrality of rice in the life of both Filipinos and Indians, perhaps to a lesser extent in the latter’s case, and if you were looking for trouble from these two nationalities, all you had to do was to curtail their supply of rice, and you will have a mini-rebellion in your hands. Filipinos love their rice: they can endure some cheap dried fish as main course, as long as they have their favorite steamed rice, and some flavoring, and they’ll be fine.

The matter of feeding his work mates became a difficult task for Bert because sometimes they had to travel to Benghazi just to source their rice, a 650-km journey one way. Travelling through Libya those days was a challenge because of the constant lack of gasoline supplies, and the presence of armed bandits along the way. One never knew how long journeys would end up. Bert endured these conditions for another four years, before finally deciding he’s had enough. In 1985, he packed his bags. He realized that it was much better working

and living in the Philippines: you just had to work doubly hard to make life more comfortable.

Back in the Philippines, Bert assessed his chances. He had some P250,000 saved in the bank. What type of business could be possible go into that could earn him as much if not more than what he did in Libya? He didn’t wander too far. His wife’s family business was seafood trading and it seemed to be doing well. They bought shrimps and prawns from fishpond operators in Aklan and shipped the produce to Manila via Navotas and Divisoria fish ports. Bert decided to sink his savings into his wife’s business and not long after, they had their own buying stations in Kalibo, New Washington and Batan, all in Aklan.

It was a good investment and the business grew. Within fifteen years, the couple had accumulated enough savings to go on their own. They had within the period already gradually bought up considerable hectarage in Aklan suitable for fishpond operations. Bert and Marlyn realized it was the right thing to do because as traders, they were at the mercy of producers who could choose from the hundreds of begging traders to whom they could sell their produce. They had decided to be an owner-producer, instead of just a buyer-trader.

In 2000, the couple went home to Aklan to establish what would become one of the largest fishpond operations in Panay. They started with just 20 hectares. By hard work and by buying up more hectarage on installment terms, the couple now has more than 600 hectares, including some 400 which they are sub-leasing from leasehold rights owners, who having leased it from the government have given up on operating it. Typhoon Yolanda devastated 167 hectares, but the couple rebounded and have since rebuilt most of the areas ruined by the typhoon.

What are the risks involved in the fishpond business?

“It’s really the weather which poses the greatest risk because a strong typhoon could easily ruin hundreds of hectares of structures and produce,” Bert looked up, as if imprecating the return of typhoons, at least not in his neck of the woods. “Then, there is snail infestation. Since chemical is no longer being used to kill off snails due to environmental concerns, I do it the natural way.” He lets loose young crabs in areas infested with snail, and soon enough the crabs have eaten off all the snails. It’s a win-win solution. The environment is unaffected. The farmers who bring the crabs to Bert earn money, and Bert saves from not having to use expensive chemicals.

He has taught his children to be entrepreneurs too. He helped his eldest child put up a small building in Kalibo to house the latter’s computer, gym, canteen and tailoring businesses. Their second child has her own ice plant, computer, bakery and water refilling businesses. The ice produced is mostly to supply the freezing needs of Bert’s fishpond business.

Bert also operates his own hatchery so he doesn’t have to look for prawn and fish hatchlings elsewhere. In the pipeline is a feedmill that will also take care of his own feed needs. Although his fishpond operations is still polyculture-traditional, he is well on his way to having an integrated fish operations—from fry production, cultivation, feedmill, preservation, transportation, shipment and trading. The unsold bakery products and rejected fish produce are used as feeds. Earnings from his business are invested back to the business.

The traditional type of fish culture is actually more environmentally safe. Dry chicken manure is sprayed on top of the dried fishpond bed before water is released into the pond, allowing green algae to thrive. When the green algae has grown enough, shrimps and fish fry are released. It is only when the growth of green algae is weak that chemical fertilizers are used, but it is rare for this to happen, Bert hastens to

add. He is not the harvest-all-at-once type

of fishpond operator. Every other day is harvest day. One day he would have 20 kilos of bangus, 30 kilos of prawns and 15 kilos of crabs; the next day he would have more, or the day after, less. Supplying the market with just the right amounts keeps the price stable, and keeps Bert busy.

How does he manage his caretakers, who number 45?

“Just treat them the way you would like them to treat you,” Bert said. Easier said than done, you would say, but Bert has allowed them to earn extra cash from taking care of a 200-head egg-laying poultry operation. Bert spent for the shed and gives away daily feeds from scraps off their bakery and rejected seafood produce. The caretakers are paid a fixed salary and get a percentage of the sale of the fish, prawn and crabs harvested. On top of it all, they’re given free one sack of rice a month. Bert also tolerates his caretakers occasionally spearing fish and collecting oysters from the ponds under their care for their consumption.

Bert and Marlyn have also done their share in mitigating environmental degradation by partnering with DENR to plant mangrove trees in and around their vast property. This is another win-win approach so characteristic of the couple’s business philosophy. Government support funds are released to the couple for the collection, planting and maintenance of mangrove propagules. The couple in turn allows the 45-strong workforce of the fishpond business to do the collection, the planting and the maintenance work of the mangrove replanting scheme, and pays them out of the government subsidy.

Bert joins other Rotary Club members in a feeding program for the poor, but says his number one giving-back advocacy is his own workers. He makes sure the children of his workers are able to go to school, and gives away money or loans at pay-when-able terms to his workers for the tuition fees of their children.

Bert counsels OFWs to value their own sacrifices abroad by taking care of their money and investing it in businesses which they have studied well. Before going into a business, he advises OFWs to do diligent research on a business which the community needs, and not rush willy-nilly into something just because it looks profitable on paper.

From a starting capital of P250,000 Bert is probably worth twenty times over now but demurs admitting he’s one of Aklan’s richest. Pressing the issue, I took a different angle.

“Is there a bigger fishpond operator than you in Aklan?” I asked. He smiled meaningfully, and hesitantly volunteers the information that soon, his own brother-in-law will overtake his fishpond business in size.

In the meantime, we lay back on bamboo benches in the wooden and nipa gazebo behind the mansion-like resthouse, Ron savoring his San Mig Lite while I toyed with a fork the supersized grilled bangus laid out on the table. We continued the interview there until we ran out of things to ask. We prepared to leave for Iloilo, still more than 3 hours away. Bert and Marlyn could now enjoy the comforts of financial security, but their story gives the reader no other impression than that behind their present comfortable life lie 30 years of hard work and honest business management. They’re not in a hurry to complicate their lives by expanding into other businesses, he said.

“Business opportunities will come soon enough,” says Bert, “and if it’s right for me, then we will invest in it. In the meantime, let me and my family enjoy what we have worked hard for.” He then let his bespectacled eyes wander into the horizon upon his vast property, and I looked at his face, and I knew that even if some employer offered him ten times his salary in Libya before, he would politely refuse it.

NORBERTO BUYOC, Civil Engineer, Libya, 1980-1985; Fishpond Operator and Entrepreneur, New Washington, Aklan

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY 13

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY14

Ang Wish Upon a SMART ay isang programang nagbibigay pugay sa mga sakripisyo ng ating mga OFW para sa kanyang pamilya, mahal sa buhay o kaibigan sa Pilipinas o Hong Kong.

Naipatutupad ng programang ito ang mga simpleng mithiin o munting pangarap ng ating mga OFW sa pamamagitan ng pagpapadala ng sulat ng kanilang kahilingan sa Smart Pinoy o Pinoy Tayo Sanman ng 1044 AM Metro Plus Station.

Ang basehan ng pagpili ng isang wish o kahilingan ng ating OFW ay ang mga sumusunod:1. May magandang pangitain sa buhay2. May kakayahang umangat gaano mang kahirap pagsubok na dinaranas sa buhay3. May positibong epekto sa buhay ng ibang tao Mula ng inilunsad ang programang ito noong 2012, umabot na sa mahigit 50 kahilingan

ng mga pamilya o kamag-anak ng ating mga OFW ang natupad ng Smart Pinoy at Pinoy Tayo Sanman. Kasama sa mga natupad na mithiin ng ating mga OFW ay ang mga sumusunod: hearing aid, wheelchair, eyeglasses, false teeth, nebulizer, stroller, educational assistance, laptop, school supplies, school building materials, grocery items para sa sari-sari store, sewing machine, rocking chair, living room furniture, double deck bed, home appliances at iba pa.

Kaya ipadala ang sulat ng iyong kahilingan sa Pinoy Tayo Sanman o mag-email sa marketing@pldthk.com at baka ito na ang katuparan ng iyong mga kahilingan sa buhay!

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY 15The Story of My LifeLolita B. Paguican

Greg M. Matubis, Jr.

Glory to God!Ako po si Lolita B. Paguican, dumating ako sa

Hong Kong noong January 2001. Noong nasa ‘Pinas pa ako, farmer po kami ng asawa ko, may maliit na bahay at dalawang anak - babae at lalaki. Dumating ang panahon na ang amo ng kapatid ko ay nagbuntis at kailangan nila ng tagapag-alaga at ako ang kinuha niya. Iniwan ko ang aking asawa at mga anak na maliliit pa noon.

Fourteen years akong nagtrabaho sa kanila. Walang utang, walang ipon, walang gamit, walang natulungan. May nakilala rin ilang OFW sa Hong Kong pero wala akong kaibigan dahil lagi akong naglalakad na mag-isa. Hinihintay ko lang ang katapusan ng buwan saka ako magpapadala sa ‘Pinas. Sabi ko sa pamilya ko, isang beses lang ako magsweldo sa isang buwan kaya isang beses din lang akong magpadala. Ipinaubaya ko na sa kanila ang pagba-badyet.

Purihin ang Diyos dahil mabait at matalino ang mga amo na ibinigay ni Lord sa akin pati na ang mga bata, lolo at lola. Kahit baluktot ang English ko, naiintindihan pa rin nila. Ngayong tapos na ang panganay ko sa Nursing, nag-volunteer siya ngayon sa Ospital. Ang bunso ko naman ay nakabuntis at

one year old na ang apo ko ngayon. Tumigil siya pansamantala sa pag-aaral last year pero ngayon nagpatuloy siya uli ng kanyang pag-aaral sa College.

Noong una, nagpapadala ako ng pera sa asawa ko kaya lang nagloko siya. Ngayon, hindi na ako nagpapadala ng pera sa kanya kasi may trabaho naman siya. Sabi niya sa akin, minsan may pera, minsan wala. Dumating ang panahon na nagkasakit siya at kailangan magpagamot sa Cagayan de Oro. Salamat sa Diyos at sa ngayon ay magaling na siya at sabi niya ay tumaba siya.

Last year naman, naoperahan ako. Noong una, sabi ng doktor, mayroon akong cyst sa ovary. Pero noong magpatingin uli ako, wala namang problema sa ovary pero yung cyst ay nakita sa fallopian tube. Bago ako naoperahan, ang prayer ko kay God almighty na ayoko ng may sugat sa katawan. Purihin ang Diyos at dalawang maliliit na tuldok lang ang sugat sa tiyan ko kasi laparoscopy ang procedure na ginawa sa halip na operasyon. Salamat sa Diyos dahil nakapagtrabaho agad ako.

Thank God almighty for everything. Simply lang ang ayos ko. Walang make-up, walang lipstick. Para sa akin, simple is beautiful.

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY16

Be a recipient of this Program and receive HK$500 load and Php5,000 worth of remittance thru Smart Pinoy Remit!

Have you ever done something in your job that your employer really appreciated? If you did, you can be nominated by your employer to the “Outstanding Filipino Worker (OFW)” Program of SMART Pinoy. Here’s how to join:

To give recognition to outstanding Filipino worker for his/her exemplary and extraordinary work performance, the employer needs to send a nomination letter that contains a description of the qualities of his/her employee that would justify his/her recommendation for the Program. The employer may cite a specific situation or incident on why his/her employee deserves to be given the OFW Award. The winner may be recognized for going the extra mile, years of service or a situation that will “wow” his/her employer for an excellent performance.

There will be one winner per month and nominations shall be sent on or before the 10th day of the month at marketing@pldthk.com. Nomination letter should contain the following details: name of employee, first 4-digits of employee’s HK ID, SMART Pinoy Mobile Number, copy of employment contract, name and signature of employer, mobile number of employer and description or justification for the nomination. Aside from the fabulous prizes, the winner’s nomination letter will be published in SMART ang Pinoy publication the following month.

You may advise your employer to use the form on the right.

Invite your employer to nominate you!

Pasulatin sa amin ang inyong employer at magkaroon ng chance na manalo ng HK$500 load at Php5,000 worth of remittance thru Smart Pinoy Remit!

May nagawa ka bang kakaiba para sa iyong employer na labis niyang ikinatuwa? Kung meron, maaari mo siyang pasulatin sa amin para ikaw ay ma-nominate sa “Outstanding Filipino Worker” Program ng Smart Pinoy.

Para mabigyan ng recognition ang iyong magandang nagawa, kailangan magpadala ng nomination letter ang iyong employer at isalaysay niya kung bakit ka nararapat ma-nominate sa programang ito. Maaaring magbigay ng isang sitwasyon o pangyayari ang iyong employer na makapagpapatunay sa kabutihang nagawa mo sa kanila o sa ibang tao. Ito ay maaaring may kinalaman sa isang bagay na nagawa mo na higit pa sa inaasahan ng iyong employer, patuloy na walang sawang paglilingkod sa nakalipas na mahabang panahon o napa “wow” mo siya sa isang kakaibang nagawa mo sa iyong trabaho.

May isang winner bawat buwan at ang nominasyon ay maaaring ipadala bago ang ika-10 ng araw ng buwan sa marketing@pldthk.com. Kailangan ilagay sa nominasyon ang mga sumusunod: pangalan ng worker, unang apat na digits ng kanyang HK ID, Smart Pinoy Mobile Number, kopya ng employment contract, pangalan at lagda ng employer, mobile number ng employer at ang justification para sa nominasyon. Ang winner ay makakatanggap ng HK$500 worth of load at Php5,000 worth of remittance. Ilalagay din namin ang nomination letter ng nanalo sa susunod na issue ng Smart ang Pinoy Publication.

Ang programang ito ay para sa ating mga OFW dahil nais naming kilalanin ang inyong galing, sipag at tiyaga. Kung may nagawa kayo na labis na ikinatuwa ng inyong employer, sali na at baka kayo na ang susunod na Outstanding Filipino Worker!

Dear Smart Pinoy,

Very truly yours,

Name and signature of employer

Nomination Form

Notes:

Worker: Please provide this form to your employer to fill-in in case you would want to be nominated for the Outstanding Filipino Worker (OFW) Award.Submit the form together with a copy of your employment contract at SMART Pinoy Center Shop 109 , Worldwide House, 19 Des Voeux Road, Central.

Employer: You may cite a specific situation/incident or provide justification on why your worker deserves to be nominated for this Program. Worker should be currently employed by the employer.

Name of Worker :

First 4-digits of HK ID No.:SMART Pinoy Mobile Number of Worker: Mobile Number of Employer:

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY 17Awardee

Milagros P. Pumihic (middle) was awarded “Outstanding Filipino Worker” for June 2015 by Greg M. Matubis, Jr. (left), Marketing Officer of PLDT Hong Kong at PLDT HK Office on 28 June 2015. Her employer’s wife, Crishelle Asuncion with her daughters, KC Mayumi (front) and KC Michiko witnessed the awarding. Pumihic received HK$500 worth of airtime load, Php5,000 worth of PLDT HK Remittance Gift Certificates and a bag of goodies from Smart Pinoy.

June 2015

Dear SMART Pinoy,

Good day!I wish to nominate Milagros Pumihic to the Outstanding Filipino Worker

Program. I hired her on 22 December 2012 until the present. I appreciated and thankful to have like her. I consider her as a member of my big family because she showed her dedication, love and sacrifices to my five kids. She was hardworking and takes care of my grown up kids now age 13,6,5,4 and 3 years old. Since she started working for my family, she never have any complaints instead she gave her full understanding. I was touched to realize her incomparable honesty in the absence of my wife.

I wish her more blessings and good luck to her future.

Very truly yours,

Kazuhiro EtoEmployer

Dear SMART Pinoy,

Good day sa Smart Pinoy, staff at sa lahat ng readers ng Smart ang Pinoy Publication. Una, ako ay lubos na nagpapasalamat sa pagbalita sa akin ng PLDT Hong Kong na napili ang nomination letter sa akin ng employer ko sa Outstanding Filipino Program. Nagpapasalamat din ako sa suporta ng aking employer at lalong naging close ang relationship namin sa loob ng bahay.

Wala akong masabi sa mga alaga ko at sa mag-asawa dahil talagang kabilang na ako sa kanilang pamilya. Sa una pa lang na kontrata ko ay sinabi na nila sa akin na huwag akong mailang dahil member na raw ang turing sa akin ng pamilya nila. So I feel na lucky ako as an OFW dahil feel free ako na parang bahay ko na rin ang nadatnan ko dito sa Hong Kong.

Salamat po uli sa Smart Pinoy at PLDT Hong Kong!

Very truly yours,

Milagros P. PumihicYau Ma Tei

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY18SMART Pinoy Community

Philippine Tourism Festival Search for Ms. Philippine Tourism – Hong Kong 2015

Chater Road, Central 7 June 2015

117th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence

Lee Shau Kee Conference CentreUniversity of Hong Kong

9 June 2015

Smart Pinoy Subscribers

FCBO Awarding of Top Player

Crowd enjoyed the performance of a live Filipino band.

Independence Day ceremonial toast with Philippine Consul General Bernie Catalla and Hong Kong Secretary for Justice Rimsky Yuen.

Dominic Cochico (center) received PLDT HK Remittance gift certificate from Greg Matubis, Jr. (right), Marketing Officer of PLDT Hong Kong and Gil Pagunsan (left), Filipino Community Basketball Organization (FCBO) Sports Commissioner as prize for “TOP 12 Best Players” organized by Smart Pinoy and FCBO. Cochico got the the 3rd highest no. of SMS votes during the weekly SMS polling canvassing held at Southern Playground in Wanchai on 7 June 2015.

PLDT Hong Kong Team headed by Edith Gomez assist Smart Pinoy subscribers during the Festival.

The Philippine Madrigal Singers perform at the Hong Kong University Grand Hall after the reception.

Happy Smart Pinoy subscribers. Eight (8) newly arrived Filipino workers from the Philippines who have applied through Pacific Jet Consultants subscribed to Smart Pinoy service. Three (3) of them already purchased RV100, activated their Smart Money Account and started saving for their family back home thru the Load and Save Promo of Smart Pinoy.

Smart Pinoy Sales Assistant Precy Aguilar pose with staff ofUETA Employment Agency in Hunghom.

Search for Philippine Tourism – Hong Kong candidates in their festive attire during the talent competition.

Guests went around to meet new faces from the diplomatic corps, business community, media and other groups.

Smart Pinoy subscribers join the parlor game hosted by June Paragas (center) as PLDT Hong Kong GM Edith Gomez & SUN Cellular Sales and Marketing Manager Francis Ita-as look on.

Edith Gomez (center), General Manager of PLDT Hong Kong pose with The Philippine Madrigal Singers.

Ms. Philippine Tourism – Hong Kong 2015 grand winners (from left): Festival Second Princess- Marilyn Melloria; Ms. Phil. Alliance- Gretchen Ann Tanso; Ms. Philippine Tourism 2015- Melhanie Marabillo; Festival Queen - Sheralyn Ifurung; and Festival First Princess- Hazel Perdido.

Gretchen Ann Tanzo was awarded “SMS Queen” by Edith Gomez (left), General Manager of PLDT Hong Kong; Vic Fronda, Sales Executive of PLDT Hong Kong; and Nazzer Ampang (right), Chairman of Philippine Alliance. The winner received HKD1,519.00 in cash as revenue share for the SMS Polling organized by PLDT Hong Kong and Philippine Alliance, O+ Phablet and HKD100 worth of airtime load from Smart Pinoy.

PLDT Hong Kong General Manager Edith Gomez (center) with Joel Almeda (left), BDO Remit Head – Asia Chinese Market and Jun paragas, Smart Pinoy endorser and PTS radio host.

PLDT Hong Kong’s Francis Ita-as and Greg Matubis Jr. (right and 2nd from right, respectively) with Bayanihan Administrator Tess Ubamos and Rolly Cruz.

PLDT Hong Kong Team with Smart Pinoy subscribers at Cebu Bali in Mei Foo, Kowloon.

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY 19117th Philippine Independence Day Celebration

Philippine Consulate General 12 June 2015

Independence Day Filipino Community CelebrationKapangyawan Friendship Festival

Chater Road, Central 14 June 2015

54th Philippine Association of Hong Kong (PAHK) Annual Charity Ball

Conrad Hotel, Hong Kong 13 June 2015

Consul General Bernie Catalla provides a review of the Consulate’s programs and activities during the past year at the Philippine Independence Day celebration at the Consulate on 12 June 2015.

Consul General Bernie Catalla (front) with the officers of the Philippine Consulate during the parade.

Section Juan participants with their dance piece “Maglalatik, Subli at Sakuting” during the Sayaw Pinoy cultural presentation.

A parade of colors and line dance performance by 500 Kulay Pinoy participants from fifty Filipino community groups was one of the highlights of the celebration.

PLDT Hong Kong team pose with special guest Tom Rodriguez at the Charity Ball. From left: Anne Suaverdez, Sales Executive; Joanna Uson, Senior Marketing Manager; and Edith Gomez, General Manager.

PLDT Hong Kong Team with the leaders of the Filipino Community in Hong Kong.

Board of Directors of the Philippine Association of Hong Kong (PAHK) Team 2015 join the parade.

The famous “Ati-Atihan” performance from Visayas Alliance.

Special guest and actor Tom Rodriguez with TV host and stand up comedian K Brosas.

PLDT Hong Kong and Macau Teams with Sam Suen and Rocele Cabansag (4th and 5th from left, respectively) of Teltrue Ltd. From left: Baba Gozum, Sales Manager of PLDT Macau; Vic Fronda, Sales Executive; Greg Matubis, Jr., Marketing Officer; Francis Ita-as, Sales and Marketing Manager of SUN Cellular; and Joanna Uson, Senior Marketing Manager of PLDT Hong Kong.

Guests from the Filipino Community at the breakfast celebration.

The singing of the Philippine National Anthem to formally start the celebration.

The Hong Kong Police Marching Band performs during the celebration.

Kapamilya Ms. Vina Morales’ song and dance performance with some Kulay Pinoy participants.

PAHK Team 2015 pose with Consul General Bernie Catalla (4th from left) before the cocktail reception starts.

Philippine Street Dancing Festival featuring “Panagbenga” presented by officers and members of Philippine Alliance.

Members of Mindanao (HK) Migrant Alliance perform “Kaamulan” dance.

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY20Balitang Konsulado

Bernardita L. Catalla

Consul General

Art exhibit feature three Pinoy artists

PH Consulate in Hong Kong SAR marks Independence Day “firsts”

The Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong and Pintura Circle organized an art exhibit featuring three Filipino contemporary artists namely Francis Nacion, Gerrico Blanco and Ram Mallari on 12-14 May 2015.

Titled “TRICHOTOMY: Union In Art”, the exhibit was the inaugural event of the newly-opened PCG Gallery at the Consulate’s premises.

This year’s celebration of the 117th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence marks several “firsts” in the history of the Philippine Consulate General in Hong Kong SAR.

For the first time in the Consulate’s history, the Independence Day reception on 9 June 2015 was graced by three Department Secretaries from the Hong Kong Government, namely: Secretary for Justice Rimsky Yuen, as the Hong Kong Government’s official representative, and Secretary for Labor and Welfare Matthew Cheung and Secretary for Education Eddie Ng as special friends of the Consulate. Professor Peter Mathieson, President and Vice Chancellor of the University of Hong Kong (HKU), also attended the event.

Held at the at HKU’s Lee Shau Kee Lecture Centre, it is also the first time that the Consulate held the reception at a university.

For its part, is it also the first time for HKU to serve as a venue for a national day reception. Moreover, the performance of the Philippine Madrigal Singers’ (MADz) at the HKU Grand Hall after the

reception was the first-ever major concert by a foreign choral group held at the said venue.

TRICHOTOMY: Union In Art also featured an art workshop by Gerrico Blanco and Ram Mallari on 14 May. Both artists conducted lessons on basic drawing, color mixing, brushwork techniques and composition in various art materials.

The workshop is a project under the auspices of the Consulate’s Sentro Rizal, and was attended by Filipino and local youth.

Mr. Nacion’s trademark one-eyed images and Mr. Blanco’s life-like paintings were on display during the event, while Mr. Mallari’s sculptures gave a new dimension to scrap materials and found objects.

During the exhibit’s opening cocktails on 12 May, members of the diplomatic corps, academe, business community and civil society were able to view the paintings and sculptures of the three artists.

Consul General Bernardita L. Catalla and Ms.Irene Haagen, President of Pintura Circle (third and fourth from left), flanked by (from left to right) Filipino artists Ram Mallari, Gerrico Blanco and Francis Nacion, and Ms. Christina Jensen (second from right) of Anakatira Foundation during the exhibit’s ribbon cutting ceremony.

Consul General Bernardita L. Catalla during her speech at the 117th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence held on 9 June 2015 at the University of Hong Kong. Guest of honor, Secretary for Justice Rimsky Yuen, is on the right.

More than 400 guests attended the Philippine Consulate General’s celebration of Philippine Independence Day.

Consul General Catalla (center, standing) with (seated from left to right) Mr. Gerrico Blanco, Mr. Ram Mallari, and Mr. Francis Nacion; and members of Pintura Circle, Filipino Community and PCG staff.

The three Filipino artists with their artworks (from left to right): Ram Mallari’s Avionika; Gerrard Blanco’s series Urban Abode 1, 2 and 3; and Francis Nacion’s Goddess of Flowers.

Above photos: Mr. Francis Nacion and Mr. Gerrico Blanco conducting the art workshop attended by Filipino and local youth.

Clockwise from top: Guests at the exhibit’s reception area; Consul General Catalla with Honorary Consul of Mozambique, Chun-tung Ho, and spouse, Mrs. Alice Ho; Dr. Michael Manio and students from the University of Hong Kong; and PCG staff.

Consul General Catalla during her welcome remarks.

Group photo of the artists, youth, members of Pintura Circle and PCG staff after the art workshop.

Guests during the opening cocktails view the artworks at the newly-opened PCG Gallery within the Consulate’s premises.

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY 21

The HKU Grand Hall, the venue of the MADz concert, is currently considered as the best concert hall in Hong Kong with the finest acoustics and impressive sight lines for the audience. As a teaser to the concert, a MADz quartet sang the Philippine national anthem at the cocktail reception. The Hong Kong concert is part of the MADz’s China Tour which started in Chongqing, followed by Shanghai and Xiamen, and finally, Hong Kong.

The Consulate partnered with HKU-Centre of Development and Resources for Students (CEDARS) under its SERVICE 100 Domestic Workers Empowerment Project for the concert which also served as a tribute to the OFWs participating in the project.

On 10 June, the MADz performed at the Asia Society Hong Kong Center also in celebration of Philippine Independence Day, and the 40th Anniversary of the Establishment of Philippines-China Diplomatic Relations. The mini-concert was supported by HK Friends of MADz.

The Consulate’s culminating event was a Breakfast Celebration for the Filipino Community on 12 June at the Consulate’s Public Area. During the event, the Independence Day messages from President Benigno S. Aquino III, Vice President Jejomar C.Binay, Secretary of Foreign Affairs Albert F. Del Rosario and Secretary of Labor and Employment Rosalinda D. Baldoz were read by Consulate officials. Representatives from the religious community also said prayers in celebration of Independence Day.

The Breakfast Celebration’s highlight was Consul General Catalla’s review of the Consulate’s projects, challenges and initiatives in the past year. She particularly thanked the members of the Filipino Community for their support and partnership in effectively implementing the Consulate’s services.

The Filipino Community and other guests were treated to a sumptuous Filipino breakfast prepared by Consul General Catalla herself.

During her reception speech, Consul General Bernardita L. Catalla highlighted the Philippines’ steady economic growth, as well as tourism as a special growth sector which complements the country’s Visit the Philippines 2015 tourism campaign.

Consul General Catalla also underscored the robust economic partnership between the Philippines and Hong Kong, and the Filipino Community’s contribution to the Hong Kong economy and society.

Guest of honor, Secretary for Justice Rimsky Yuen, emphasized the strong bilateral trade between the Philippines and Hong Kong in his speech, and looked forward to the signing of the ASEAN-Hong Kong Free Trade Agreement.

More than 400 guests from the diplomatic corps, business community, academe and civil society participated in the celebration.

Popular Filipino dishes such as Cebu-style lechon (suckling pig), halo-halo shooters and chicken adobo specially prepared by Hotel ICON were served during the reception. Destileria Limtuaco and San Miguel Beer provided refreshing beverages, and Del Monte filled the dessert station with assorted tropical fruits from the Philippines.

Prize draws from Genting Hong Kong Ltd. and Philippine Airlines drew cheers from the crowd. Guests also took home rainsticks made in Southern Philippines courtesy of SMART Pinoy and PLDT-Hong Kong.

Consul General Antonello De Riu of Italy (center) winning the prize draw from Genting Hong Kong Ltd. and Resortworld Manila with Mr. Desmond Cheng, Second Vice President of Corporate Communications of Genting (left) and Deputy Consul General Christian L. De Jesus.

Consul General Gabrielle Rush of New Zealand (center) winning a roundtrip business class ticket courtesy of Philippine Airlines (PAL) with PAL Country Manager Leah Nicolas and Deputy Consul General De Jesus.

The Philippine Madrigal Singers at the HKU Grand Hall.

The Philippine Madrigal Singers drawing a standing ovation from the crowd after their performance at the University of Hong Kong’s Grand Hall.

Left photo: The Philippine Madrigal Singers (MADz) during their performance at the Asia Society Hong Kong Center (ASHKC) on 10 June 2015. Right photo: MADz with Consul General Catalla (center in multi-colored top), Mr. Ronnie Chan, Chairman of ASHKC (beside Consul General Catalla), Ms. Alice Mong, Executive Director of ASHKC (first from left) and HK Friends of MADz.

Consul General Catalla (standing, first row, 3rd from right), PCG personnel and guests sing the Philippine national anthem led by Ms. Maria Flores during the Breakfast Celebration of Philippine Independence Day on 12 June 2015.

Filipino Community members and other guests attend the Philippine Independence Day Breakfast Celebration on 12 June 2015 at the Consulate.

Consul General Catalla during her remarks at the Breakfast Celebration.

Consul General Catalla and guest of honor, Secretary for Justice Rimsky Yuen, during the Independence Day ceremonial toast.

Consul General Catalla with (from left to right) Secretary for Education Eddie Ng; Professor Peter Mathieson, President and Vice Chancellor of the University of Hong Kong; Secretary for Justice Rimsky Yuen; Secretary for Labor and Welfare Matthew Cheung celebrating the event with a toast.

Some of the dishes served at the reception.

Consulate personnel handing out Philippine-made rainsticks courtesy of SMART Pinoy and PLDT-Hong Kong at the reception.

14 June 2015 - The Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Hong Kong SAR, in cooperation with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), organized “Kababaihan: A Forum on Women’s Rights, Projects and Programs in the Philippines” on Sunday, 7 June 2015, at the PCG Conference Room.

DSWD Undersecretaries Parisya Hashim-Taradji and Angelita Y. Gregorio-Medel propounded on selected provisions of R.A. 9710, Magna Carta of Women, that specifically affect migrant workers, and tied these up with programs and projects of DWSD that may be availed of by women and their beneficiaries in the Philippines.

More than sixty participants took part in the Forum and actively engaged in the Question and Answer session after the DSWD presentation. Majority of the questions revolved around acquiring support from estranged husbands and custody of minor children in the Philippines.

The Forum was organized under the auspices of the Consulate’s Gender and Development (GAD) program.

PH Consulate in Hong Kong SAR holds forum for women OFWs

The participants with DSWD Undersecretary Parisya Hashim-Taradji, Consul General Bernadita L. Catalla, DSWD Undersecretary Angelita Y. Gregorio-Medel, and Social Welfare Attaché Elizabeth L. Dy (4th, 5th, 6th and 11th from the left, 2nd row from the front).

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY22

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY 23Tara Na, Byahe Tayo!Sagada - Jewel of Cordillera

Vic Fronda

Magical and hypnotic, Sagada, is home to breathtakingly massive, pine-clad and cloud-covered mountains, graceful rice terraces, magnificent caves and dramatic waterfalls, sparklingly clear streams and the proud and extremely rich Kankanaey culture and people – the true jewel of the Cordillera.Sagada Rice Terraces

Another famous feature of Sagada is its graceful rice terraces that hug its mountains and although not as extensive as the ones in Banawe, the undulating rice swaying in the wind like green waves in a terraced sea is enough to hypnotize you and lull you to calmness while on an at least hour trek to the towering Bomod-ok Falls (also known as Big Falls-Bokong Falls are the Small Falls) which are located a few kilometers away from the town centre. One can walk through the rice terraces and pass through a village filled with more traditional Igorot houses. Here, you would encounter very friendly kids who would pester you (in a good, charming way) to have their photos taken – however, like everywhere in Sagada – one must request permission from the locals if you want to take a photograph of them (some decline for superstitious reasons). Don’t just go snapping photographs– remember you are a guest, be gracious and be polite enough and you will find out how amazing these locals are. Check with the Tourism Center at the Municipal Hall before going as sometimes access is restricted during traditional planting or harvesting rituals.Bomod-Ok Falls

Closer to the Sagada town centre, is the tiny village of Demang where dap-ays are also located in the fields of cabbage patches, rice-fields, springs and an occasional waterfall, Demang, is excitingly, off the tourist trail. A dap-ay is a tiny house for children. As early as the age of 5, kids are sent to the dap-ays where they are taught by village elders, and this is where they spend the rest of their childhood until they get married. There are separate dap-ays for girls and boys. However, this tradition is slowly dying out and all that remains are empty dap-ays as less and less parents send their children to the dap-ays.Kiltepan and the Rock Valley

Sunrise at Kiltepan peak, the valley below covered with low lying clouds.

Sagada is also known for its spectacular sunrise viewing at Kiltepan, although during fickle weather, it would be too cloudy for you to see one, so do not hold your breath. Sunrise viewing at Kiltepan is about 15-20

minutes away from Sagada town, and a better view however was about an hour away- which means that you have to wake up extra early for this event – which is not good if you just had a cave connection the previous day. You’d be exhausted and groggy. Going up to Sagada though, we had the chance to catch an awe-inspiring sunrise in Atok, Benguet- imagine foaming white clouds cascading on top of a massive pine-forested mountain range and a thick bed of clouds below and as the sun peeks, it literally lit up the clouds in hues of reds, oranges, blues and purples giving a spectacular illusion of mountaintops raging with angry fire. While Kiltepan was known for sunrises, the placid Lake Danum is known for sunsets and the bonfires that are held afterwards.

For most people, Sagada is known for its traditional way of burying the dead – either by stacking the coffins at the opening of a cave like in Lumiang, or by hanging them precipitously from cliffs. The hanging coffins, some of which are over 500 years old, can still be seen from the other side of the Echo Valley.

My to do List:1. Visit the Ganduyan Museum and Learn the local

Kankanaey culture.2. Trek around the dap-ays of Demang.3. Buy a wanes or a tapis at Sagada Weaving and

ask your newly found Kankanaey friend to help you properly put it on.

4. Do the cave connection at Sumaguing/Lumiang. 5. Walk through the rice terraces.6. Take a dip at the majestic Bomod-ok Falls. 7. Check out the Hanging Coffins at Echo Valley

and yodel at the top of your lungs.8. Catch the sunrise viewing at Kiltepan.9. Spend a dreamy bonfire evening at Lake Danum. 10. Eat the luscious and to-die-for Blueberry Pie at

the Lemon Pie House.11. Start the day with a yummy breakfast of

yoghurt-inspired meals at the Yoghurt House.12. Try the Pinikpikan and Chicken id Ambasing at

the Rock Inn & Café13. Sneak out from the tourist traffic and head out

to the Marlboro country.14. Walk along and feel the buzz of Sagada’s

Saturday Street Market.Source: http://tourism-philippines.com/sagada/

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY24Kwentong PinayMatimtimang Plano

Violy Pascual

Marami mang nakaharang sa dadaanan ni Amor papuntang Canada mula sa Hong Kong, nahawi niya ito sa kanyang matiyagang paghihintay sa tamang panahon at maingat sa pagplano sa maiiwanang amo.

Malapit nang matapos ang unang kontrata sa amo ni Amor. Manganganak pa at masusundan ang panganay na alaga nito. Hindi pa rin dumadating ang kanyang papeles na nilalakad ng kanyang tiyahing nasa Canada. Napilitan siyang pumirma ulit ng pangalawang kontrata. Nahirapan ng husto mula nang nanganak ang kanyang amo. Ang masaklap, nadagdagan na nga ang gawain, naging mainitin pa ang ulo ni madam. Sanhi marahil ng panganganak o “Post Natal Syndrome” ang rason ng pagbabago ng ugali nito. Naging mas makulit din ang panganay na nagkaroon ng karibal sa atensyon ng lahat. Masamang-masama man ang loob ni Amor, kailangan niyang magtiyaga at magpasensya muna.

May nakalaang pagkakataon siyang magbakasyon para makapiling muna ang kanyang mag-ama, dahilan upang kayanin ang mga pahirap ng kanyang among Intsik sa Mid-Levels. Hindi alam ng kanyang amo ang planong paglipat sa

Canada at sikreto rin ni Amor sa kanyang mga kaibigan. Walang nakakaalam na kakilala o kaibigan man Hongkong sa kanyang plano para siguraduhing hindi mabulilyaso ito.

Dalawang buwan pa lamang ang bagong kontrata at kababalik mula sa bakasyon si Amor, dumating ang working visa nito. Nagbigay agad ng isang buwang abiso at sinabi ang dahilang paglipad sa ibang bansa. Sagad sa buto man ang galit ng amo, wala namang nilalabag na batas. Ang mga amo kung gustong magtanggal ng kasambahay ano mang oras kahit walang dahilan, hindi maipagpipilitan, katuwiran ni Amor.

Hindi na hinintay ng amo ang isang buwan, pinababa na siya makatatlong-linggo pa lang sa ibinigay na abiso. Tuwang-tuwa si Amor dahil bukod sa napaaga na ang paglipad, perang katapat - halaga ng tiket papauwi sana sa Manila ang ibinigay. Naunawaan din ng amo na mas magandang bukas ang maaaring direksyon ni Amor na makakasama ang kanyang mag-ama balang-araw.

Hindi makalimutan ni Amor ang kasabihang “kung may tiyaga, may nilaga” na siyang kanyang pinagdaanan at napagtagumpayan.

Source: http://www.febc.org

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY 25Tumawa Ka MunaSmart Jokes

May robot na galing sa Japan na magaling manghuli ng magnanakaw

Ang robot ay dinala sa Spain, Nakahuli siya ng sampung magnanakaw sa loob ng 15 minuto Tapos nilipat ito sa America, nahuli niya ang 40 na magnanakaw sa loob ng 30 minuto (sa sobrang galing ng robot .. tinest ito sa Pilipinas) Pagkalipat sa Pilipinas...wala pang 20 minuto......NINAKAW NA ANG ROBOT! nyahahahahaha

Before Marriage

Lalaki: Sa wakas! hindi na ako makakapaghintay! Babae: Gusto mo na ba akong umalis? Lalaki : Nagbibiro ka ba? Babae: Kaya mo ba akong halikan?Lalaki: Kung may pagkakataonBabae: Sasaktan mo ba ako? Lalaki: Hindi! Babae: Mapagkakatiwalaan ba kita? Lalaki: Oo naman! Babae: Ipagpapalit mo ba ako sa iba? Lalaki: Of course not! Babae: mahal mo ba ako? Lalaki: Yes !Babae: Darling!

After Marriage...basahin pabalik please...

Son: Dad... there’s a small get together in the school tomorrow, please come.Dad: What do you mean by small.... who will be there? Son: Only YOU, ME & the PRINCIPAL...

English Class

Teacher: In my class, I don’t want to hear you speaking Tagalog. Is that clear? Student: Yes ma’am. Teacher: OK, let me know your name first. What’s your name? Student: My name is Earlyseven Strikeland Neverbroke. Teacher : Wow! are you FIL-AM? Student: No ma’am, it’s the English term for my real name “ Agapito Hampaslupa Dimagiba”

Petra : Alam mo ba Gloria na ang WITCH ay di nagsususot ng panty? Gloria: Bakit naman? Petra: Para daw maipit maigi ang walis. Gloria: Kaya pala tawa ng tawa habang lumilipad kasi nakikiliti ang BRUHA!

BAPTISM

Pari : Ano ang ipapangalan dito sa bata? Ama 1: CELPON po padrePari : Ano? bakit naman iyon ang pangalan? Ama : Ung asawa ko kasi ay CELIA ako naman po ay PONCIANO. Pari : Hay naku, wala na talagang ginagawa ang mga taong ito kundi i-combine mga pangalan nyo... Itong isa naman, sino parents nito? Ama2: CHARMAINE AT ROGER po Father! Pari : Hmmmppp.. maganda-ganda to. So ano pangalan ng bata? Ama2: CHARGER po! Pari : (no comment)

Mhar and Baby Omang

(2)

(5) (6)

(7) (8) (9) (10)

(3) (4)

(1)

Answer: 1. Bottle Opener 2. Cordless Phone 3. Drum Cymbal 4. Giraffe 5. Gorilla 6. Hair Brush 7. Horse 8. Lighter Fluid 9. Mouse Scroll 10. Stapler

Picture PuzzleGuess the Photo

Bernadette Valentona

Edith G. GomezPublisher

Joanna M. UsonManaging Editor

Greg M. Matubis, Jr.Editor

Ma. Elaine F. SantiagoVic Fronda

Rachel M. ManuelAlex Rios

Bessie RiosRandell Tiongson

Eric NarvaezFederico Paragas

Violy PascualColumnists

Baby L. OmangAnne C. Suaverdez

Khristine M. MarcelinoRichardson B. Sim

Mhar OmangJalilo Dela Torre

Contributors

Joyce LucioLeomar Valiao

Bernadette ValentonaIsrael TandocPia Alejandro

Michael Brice SorianoCreatives

Like us on facebook:www.facebook/SMARTPINOYHKOFFICIAL

Visit us at:www.SMARTpinoy.com/hk

P A R A S A M G AB A G O N G B A Y A N I

Printed By:Superflag Printing and Communication Limited

1/F, 8 Chun Ying Street, Tseung Kwan O Industrial Estate, Tseung Kwan O, New Territories, Hong Kong

SMART ang Pinoy is a monthly publication of PLDT HK Ltd. No part of this Publication may be reproduced in any manner without the permission of the Publisher. Any views or opinions expressed in this Publication are the writers’ and do not

necessarily reflect or endorsed by PLDT HK Ltd.

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY26First Time Dad

Hello! Daniel is now at home, nasa 1-2 ounce na ang feeding niya and usually every 3 hours bago siya magutom. Hope he grows fast, tulog lang ng tulog, medyo mahirap pang hawakan lalo na pag first time dad pero eventually masasanay ka rin. Talagang extra careful lang dahil very small pa siya and light so minsan si wifey na ang kumakarga sa kanya dahil mas alam niya at safe din yung bata.

Sarap ng may baby, life changing, my priorities have now changed, everything has changed, it is all for my baby now. Medyo maninibago sa una pero ito na nga yung sinasabi ng parents ko sa akin na mag-iiba ang priorities ng isang tao once magkaroon ng pamilya and definitely that is true. Now I get to appreciate them better, kasi alam ko na ang hirap ng pinag-daanan nila pagpapalaki sa akin.

Disclaimer: Smart ang Pinoy will not be held responsible for any changes in the schedule made by the association.

Richardson B. Sim

Association EventsCalendar of Activities

July 19

July 19

July 26

July 12

July 12

July 12

Agusan Hong Kong Society

Guardians Magic Group International Worldwide Overseas Filipino Workers

Bagong Bayani Builders

Royal Business Club

Unified Workers Hong Kong

Philippine Alliance Hong Kong

7th Anniversary Celebration

Singing Sensation, Dance Showdownand Search for Fat-Talbugan

Beauty Pageant/Anniversary Celebration

Beauty Pageant

Search for Ms. Filipina Top Model & Coronation of Ms. OFWHK Star 2015

117th Philippine Independence Day Kalayaan Ball

Bayanihan Auditorium

Causeway Bay Community Complex

Bayanihan Auditorium

Bayanihan Auditorium

Bayanihan KennedyTown Center

Fu Lum Bridal Hotel

July 05

July 11

July 05

Nagic Friends

Square and Compass Club

Jesus is Lord (JIL) Hong Kong

Modelling

9-PIN No Tap Bowling Tournament

30th Anniversarydubbed as “God’s Unfailing Love”

Bayanihan Auditorium

Dragon Bowling Sports Centre

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre

Well, heto na, kukuhanan ko na rin pala ng Birth Certificate si Daniel sa Admiralty. I would like to thank the professional staff of Queen Mary Hospital for making my wife’s normal delivery safe and fast. Medyo pasensya na sa wife ko at talagang sumisigaw sa sakit noong nag-labor at umiire na!

Hanggang sa muli. Here is a picture of Daniel, definitely an Angel.

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY 27Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 19)For the month ahead you want the freedom to do as you please. This phase is going to run for the whole month so expect life to reflect this greater need for independence, and have the chance to be your authentic self. Yet communication issues may get confused for the month. In some cases this could be funny, but in others more serious with drastic consequences. An important period where you need to take decisions regarding your future course of action in education or research.Taurus (Apr 20 – May 20)You can’t help but be attractive for the whole month, Taurus. You are drawing people to you right now. They may not even know why they feel this way. But you seem to exert a greater influence than usual. If you have an idea to share, or a project you want to get off the ground, do it. The chances of success are higher. One fantasy may also consume you for this period. Beware of financial entanglements for the month ahead.Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21)Variety is the spice of life, now more than ever in your life, Gemini. The people you have been meeting lately have been inspiring you to listen to your dreams and to take them seriously. This is going to be the case for some time, until you get the message and start taking action. Once you begin to believe in yourself, everything will fall into place really quite naturally. Do not play any dual roles for the month Gemini.Cancer (Jun 22 – Jul 22)The month unfolds wonderfully. But there is also a dreamy quality around, which may make you more suggestible. You may find you are picking up on others thoughts and ideas and their feelings too. If you find it hard to focus and get things done, don’t force yourself. Go out on long trips. Take some time out for the month. Leo (Jul 23 – Aug 22)You seem to be in some kind of a bind and cannot decide which way to turn during the month, Virgo. You just need a slight change in your thinking to make a whole world of difference. So work on clearing out the clutter in your own thinking and on relaxing and finding your inner peace and calm. Anyway, a long lost friend may be in touch. Your world is about to expand for the month’s period. Virgo (Aug 23 – Sep 22)You seem to be in some kind of a bind and cannot decide which way to turn during the month, Virgo. You just need a slight change in your thinking to make a whole world of difference. So work on clearing out the clutter in your own thinking and on relaxing and finding your inner peace and calm. Anyway, a long lost friend may be in touch. Your world is about to expand for the month’s period.Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 22)It is party time in your life Libra, and this means one thing, fun, enjoyment, laughter and also a multitude of interesting and exciting guests. You make a wonderful host, but at times may be inclined to be solitary and prefer to do things alone. So use this great opportunity to make new friends and get more involved in networking. You will benefit. Try to strike a balance between personal and professional life as there would be a rift between the two for this month.Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 21)Get back in touch with your inner warrior for the month. Your situation may feel like you are standing on the edge of a metaphorical cliff and having to jump. But if you are daring enough to do so, you will find that rather than being the end it can be a new beginning. You would not crash, but fly even higher. It’s time to summon the courage to let go of the old and embrace the new for the month ahead, Scorpio.Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21)Do not lower your sights just so you can be sure of success. Aim for the top, even though it might be tougher. Once you commit yourself to changing your habits and lifestyle then everything will work out fine. Move out of your comfort zone and be bold. Aim for the stars that shine brightly. With a touch of realism, you’’ll have the perfect balance. There is much in life than what meets your eyes for now. You would be playing a good host during this month, Sag. Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19)You have a special touch that often brings success, even if the odds seemed stacked against this happening. Rather than rushing around trying to do as much as possible, try becoming very still and silent inside. Stay as peaceful as possible and you’’ll act from the basis of a deeper and more intuitive place. What happens can be profound in your life, especially for the month.Aquarius (Jan 20 – Feb 18)You have a special touch that often brings success, even if the odds seemed stacked against this happening. Rather than rushing around trying to do as much as possible, try becoming very still and silent inside. Stay as peaceful as possible and you’’ll act from the basis of a deeper and more intuitive place. What happens can be profound in your life, especially for the month.Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20)Do not let other people’’s lack of imagination stop you from reaching the heights. Someone in your vicinity may be worried about your plans. Perhaps they feel they will be left behind, whilst you would move ahead and will gradually lose touch with them. Yes, it is possible this might happen, but it should not stop you from being true to yourself. Love your passions. Do not sink in with your worries. Instead get up and keep going, the world has much to offer you this month.

Source: horoscope.findyourfate.com

SMART Horoscope Balitang ShowbizYES! Exclusive: Willie Revillame’s big TV comeback and his prized possessions in a special double cover issue

In January 2009, Willie Revillame graced, for the first time, the cover of YES! Magazine.

The public clamor for that particular issue was so strong that it had to be reprinted twice, and it went on selling more than 300,000 copies. Six years later, Willie is once again on the cover of YES! This time, the cover star of the June 2015 issue talks about his big TV comeback and his prized possessions.

Willie, who has been on hiatus from TV work for one year and seven months, returns with a new weekly variety-game show titled Wowowin, which premiered last May 10 on GMA-7.

But, he clarifies: “I’m always back. Hindi naman ako mawawala sa mga taong gusto kong makapiling every

Willie Revillame on his expensive acquisitions: “Alam mo ang pera dapat slave mo ‘yan. Hindi ikaw ang slave ng pera. Kung kinukuriputan mo ang sarili mo e me problema ka. You work so hard and then titiisin mo ang sarili mo? P’wede ka namang kumain ng steak, bakit kakain ka ng ganito lang?”

Source: www. pep.ph

BAYANIHANANNOUNCEMENTS

Entrepreneurial Skills Training CoursesCulinary Arts Courses

Sewing and Design Courses

Hair and Beauty Culture Courses

Information Technology CoursesIT1 : Computer Fundamentals

International CuisineIncludes the following courses:

Baking 1 ( Cake, Cookies, Pastries)Baking 2 (Buttering and Doughing - Up the Cakes)

SD 1: Intro to Fashion and Design SD 2: Collared and Sleeved Clothes SD 3: Skirts and SlacksSD 4: Lady Suits SD 5: Bridal Gown Sewing and Full DressesSD 6: Tailoring Mens’ Wear (Shirt / Trousers)

HB1 : Basic Cuts and PermHB2 : Advanced HaircuttingHB3 : Hair Design and Beauty Make-OverHB4 : Hair and Scalp Treatment

Using Mouse and Keyboard (Basic Typing)Basic Computing (The Operating System)Understanding the Internet

Manicure/PedicureBeads Making Ribbon FoldingHealth and Self-Improvement CoursesMartial Arts - SundayMartial Arts Ballroom Dancing

Food Tech 1: Meat Processing Food Tech 2: Bottling and Canning

Japanese CuisineThai CuisineKorean CuisineChinese Cuisine

Western CuisineIndonesian Indian Cuisine

Good news for SMART Pinoy Subscribers!Get 50% refund on tuition fees for a minimum monthly

usage of HK$200 for three (3) consecutive months!

day or even once a week.” This time, the charismatic, though at times controversial, TV star is not just hosting Wowowin but is also producing the show under his new company, WBR Entertainment Productions, Inc.

WBR stands for his full name Wilfredo Buendia Revillame. “Hindi ka na empleyado na makikiusap pa sa mga boss, e, ang gusto mo lang naman e mapaganda ang show. Hindi na, tapos na ’ko ro’n. Ikaw na ang boss,” he says.

Willie is very thankful for GMA-7, starting with the network’s chairman and chief executive officer Attorney Felipe Gozon, president and chief operating officer Gilberto Duavit Jr., and chief finance officer Philip Yalung.

“Ang sarap ng feeling na imagine, we are a blocktimer here at the same time ang suporta sa ’yo para silang producer,” he points out. “Very supportive sila.” The TV host and producer also addressed the issues that have been thrown at him—getting into gambling, selling of properties, being down and out, to name a few.

“Paano ka madi-depress in life, e, ang buhay naman, hindi naman 100 percent [sure], hindi lang naman sugal,” he explains. “Sugal e kikitain mo rin naman ’yan pag nagsipag ka na, e. Huwag ka lang malulong. “Huwag ka lang magbebenta ng lahat ng gamit mo, na wala ka na even a single cent.”

On the light side, Willie gives YES! an all-access pass to his show’s studio, mansion, jet plane, yacht, and pricey cars.

J U L Y 2 0 1 5

SMART ANG PINOY28