Volume 1 Issue 5
by Edward Castro
T he Filipino EPS Workers Association’s (FEWA)
official publication SULYAPINOY launched its
official website www.sulyapinoy.org to improve
and widen its services to all OFWs in Korea subju-
gating to FEWA’s objectives at St. Benedict Catholic
Church, Hyehwadong, Seoul last March 9.
The Filipino community has witnessed the launching
right after the Holy Mass as Prof. Emely Dicolen-
Abagat Ph.D, SULYAPINOY Editorial Consultant
announced the website’s objectives before the
churchgoers.
132,000 foreign workers will be
brought in this year
by Dondave Jabay
G wacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do – The Ministry of
Labor (MOL) through its website announced
the public about the Korean government’s confirma-
tion on its 2008 Foreign Workforce Import Plan
during the Foreign Workforce Policy Committee
meeting chaired by the head of the Office for Gov-
ernment Policy Coordination on Feb. 14.
( turn to page 3 )
by Alden C. Balgos
J ongno-gu, Seoul –“If problems are difficult to
solve in an organization, it’s time to do some
rebuilding, refocusing and redirecting,” said Prof.
Emely Dicolen-Abagat Ph.D., as she facilitated the
4-Sunday team building seminar last Feb. 10, 17,
24 and Mar. 2 sponsored by the Filipino EPS
Workers Association (FEWA).
( turn to page 4 )
Photo in courtesy of Amie Sison
Team Building Seminar: Participants pose all together with
Prof. Emely Dicolen -Abagat (center) and Mr. Hyung Joong
Yoo PECC Director (rightmost) at Phil. Korean Cultural House .
March 2008
The following are among the objectives
mentioned during the launching: to provide wide
and up-to-date information concerning Filipino
migrant workers in South Korea; to serve as a
bridge of information and a centralized online
forum for discussions among different Filipino
organizations in South Korea; to foster unity
among all Filipino migrant workers and to lever-
age the culture and tradition between Filipinos
and Koreans; to regularly provide latest updates
on Korean and Philippine labor laws; to share
individual’s opinions on current issues and events
happening here, in the Philippines or in any part
of the world that is affecting Filipino migrant
workers’ life.
Part of the announcement, SULYAPINOY has
also extended its invitation to all Filipino migrant
workers and different organizations to visit the
forum website and become a member to achieve
the said objectives. Fr. Emmanuel “Noel” Ferrer,
SVD who celebrated the Holy Mass praised the Christian “Zack” Robles, sulyapinoy.org web adminis-
good intention of the website. “Good news, meron trator, with the help of Dondave Jabay, SULYAP-
ng website ang EPS for reliable information,” the
priest cited.
INOY managing editor and Edward Castro,
( turn to page 3 )
by Amie Sison & Elizer Peñaranda
“A ma, patawarin mo po sila.
Hindi nila nalalaman ang
kanilang ginawa,” said Paul Caraga
who portrayed Jesus Christ during the
“Passion of Christ” Re-enactment
performed by the Hyehwadong Filipino
Catholic Community (HFCC) volun-
teers during the Palm Sunday mass at
St. Benedict Catholic Church,
Hyehwadong, Seoul last Mar. 16.
Caraga together with the HFCC
Chorale members dramatized, as Photo in courtesy of Amie Sison
( turn to page 3 ) HFCC volunteers join forces and talents during the Lenten drama presentation.
by Edward Castro by Elizer Peñaranda
H yehwadong, Seoul - The Hyehwadong
Filipino Catholic Community – Justice and
H yehwadong, Seoul - The Filipino EPS Work-
ers association (FEWA) volunteers recently
reported that wages and re-hiring of EPS workers
Peace Committee (HFCC-JPC) held its monthly
meeting and reviewed its plans and strategic received the most number of queries and com-
solutions on the current issues confronting OFWs plaints in the past two months.
in a two–hour session last Feb. 24. Aquilino Juanites Jr., FEWA board member, an-
nounced the summary counseling cases done by
( turn to page 3 ) ( turn to page 3 )
www.sulyapinoy.org
EDITORIAL

In a busy country such as

South Korea, most of us
find it really difficult to spare time for
spiritual purposes. Notice how
some Filipino workers, due to hec-
tic schedules, could only observe
the Holy Week in two days, that is,
Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday.
Some of us might not even realize
that Lenten Season is over nor the
Holy Week is here.
As Filipino Catholics and Christians,
OF
we all know the various traditional W
ways through which we com-
memorate the suffering, death and
resurrection of our Lord back in our
country. But as Filipinos working
overseas, being so busy with our
job may not mean we will now lose
the meaning of it these days.
Still, though it is difficult to follow
the traditional ways of observance,
it is during this time that Christians
should reflect deeply how much His way to Calvary, none of the of being far away from loved ones;
God loves us. It is because of His people, except the ones who knew the discriminations, insults and
love that He gave us His only be- Him, understood the pain and suf- harsh words we experienced from
gotten Son… (Jn 3:16). And, if fering He was going through. Re- our employers and co-employees;
God gave His Son to die on the gardless of the humiliation and and most especially, the abuses
cross for our salvation, there is no brutality, He still continued to walk and harassments that some suf-
reason why He would not answer His way for us, our salvation. fered from ruthless employers.
our prayers. As we pray and think
about the sacrifice of our Lord on As Filipinos working overseas, like Like Jesus, we have heavy crosses
the cross, we should also be in- us in South Korea, the Holy Week that we should bravely carry along
spired to follow His as we carry our is the best time to reflect on the with, despite all the odds; we need
own crosses in life as migrant cross that Jesus carried. Likewise, to continuously walk on our way
workers. we also have crosses to carry towards our goals as we sacrifice
such as the dangers and difficul- for the sake of our loved ones.
When Jesus carried the cross on ties; the loneliness and emptiness

EDITORIAL STAFF BOARD OF PUBLICATION

Editor-in-Chief: Rebenson B. Recaña Managing Editor: Dondave Jabay Board of Publication Chairman: Rebenson B. Recaña
News Editor: Edward A. Castro Feature Editor: Elizer M. Peñaranda Board of Publication V-Chairman: Dondave Jabay
Literary Editor: Amie Sison Cartoonist: Alden C. Balgos
Layout: blythe Photojournalist/Photo Editor: Jhon Flores
Board of Publication in:
Circulation Manager: Alwyin A. Casiño Outreach, Recreation and Religious Program: Alden C. Balgos
Contributors: Hong Hee-Chang; Angela; Katrina Macasaquit; Budget and Finance: Sofonias N. Paragsa
Sofonias ‘Chabok’ Paragsa SULYAPINOY Website Development and Maintenance: Christian ‘Zack’ Robles
Adviser: Ma. Regina P. Arquiza Newsletter Binding/Distribution : Moreno D. Esla
Consultant: Fr. Alvin Parantar, MSP Trainings/Workshops : Richard C. Corpuz
Office Address: 115-9 Songbuk-gu, Songbuk-dong, Seoul Korea Editorial Address: OK AIRTEL VISION ASIA, Vision Bldg. # 85-3, Hyehwa-dong, Jongno-gu,
Seoul, Korea (in front of the Hyehwa-dong Catholic Church) Line 4 (Blue) Exit # 1 Tel. No. 02-744-0066

2 SULYAPINOY MARCH 2008 www.sulyapinoy.org


SULYAPINOY Launches…
SULYAPINOY news editor, said that they have
been working hard on the forum design and con-
tents in the past few months and are proud with the
result.
“We want the website to become the central source
of news, no matter what time of the day it is, our
team which composed of selected moderators,
advisers, and with the help of SULYAPINOY
editorial staff, will be making sure it is regularly
updated with the latest goings-on. With easy- to-
navigate menus and forum categories, followers will
really be able to get a worthwhile visit”, he added.
Rebenson “Reeve” Recana, SULYAPINOY editor-in
-chief, also said that the idea of having a website for
OFWs in Korea has started during the realization
stage of FEWA. “Way back March 5, 2006 when
FEWA was formally organized, it was also my
dream to have a newsletter and a website which will
serve as a voice of all EPS and other Filipino mi-
grant workers in Korea in response to the grow-
ing problems and issues they are faced with. A year
later, suddenly that dream came true when the
SULYAPINOY newsletter was successfully publi-
cized on November last year. And now, four months
later, the SULYAPINOY forum website was officially
launched. Thanks to God,” he added.
Sulyapinoy.org has registered over 500 subscribers
across the world making a significant increase in the
number of its subscribers since it has been
launched and is expecting to generate more sub-
scribers as it features information on: the Employ-
ment Permit System; exploring Korea- places, the
language, it's culture and traditions; The Filipino
Community and other partner organizations in Ko-
rea; Photojournalism; classified ads; and other
entertaining attractions like live radio, music videos,
free softwares and latest gadgets, and a chat box.
Recently, the web administrator and moderators
also disclosed that the remarkable increase of
membership was partially brought about by the
Pacquaio – Marquez Boxing Rematch “The Unfin-
ished Business” where subscribers was able to
partake with the live chat while the rematch hap-
pens.
Sambayanan Commemorates…
choreographed by Roger Amboy, the Passion of
Jesus Christ in line with the Catholic Lenten Season.
Fr. Francisco Makabenta, SVD in his homily, shared
on how Jesus suffered and died on the Cross. “Just
like in man’s life, we also carry the cross thru our
sacrifices. Upon carrying it, let us not complain for
Christ Himself carried the cross out of His uncondi-
tional love for each one of us,” Fr. Makabenta added.
Churchgoers lifted and waved their pine tree leaves to
show oneness in commemorating “Palm Sunday” by
which Holy Week normally begins.
Also, HFCC hosted series of traditional holy week
church events such as “Pabasa” sponsored by the
HFCC Chorale, the “Washing of the Feet of the 12
Apostles” Re-enactment on Maundy Thursday,
Pilgrimage to Mirinae and Joldusan, a folk village
NEWS!
where the Korean Catholic martyrs led by Kim Service - Korea (HRDS) early this year, FEWA Presi-
Taegun persecuted, on Black Saturday and the dent Loreto Agustin mentioned that rumors on cancel-
“Salubong sa Pasko ng Pagkabuhay ni Hesus” on lation of rehire program are not true.
Easter Sunday.
FEWA volunteers are continuously helping EPS work-
ers find solutions on the problems which are expected
Filipino Community Seeks… to increase in the coming months. The organization is
The meeting brought together the various Filipino
currently post in Woori Bank, Hyehwadong Branch
organizations with a wide cross–section of repre-
every Sunday to help solve the work-related problems
sentatives from KASAMMAKO – an allied of
of the workers sector in Seoul and nearby provinces.
MIGRANTE International, FEWA, Cavite, Batangas,
Mindoro, Kandong, Rosarian, and others.
The committee has designed strategic plans to deal MOL Announces 2008…
with all and outright aspects of the migrant’s life.
These include: continuous education and training According to the plan, the total number of workers
programs; hospitalization and healthcare assis-
to be brought in this year is 132,000, of which
tance; and labor policy- related counseling.
60,000 are ethnic Koreans living overseas and the
The meeting brought up with current plans which other 72,000 are general foreigners.
include a formal letter to be submitted to the Philip-
pine Embassy requesting the agency to strengthen
MOL Foreign Workforce Policy Division Director
its efforts in dealing with various dilemmas appar-
Lee Tae-Hee explained that the plan was made in
ently occurring to many OFWs.
consideration of the demand for workers who will
JPC said that the letter shall elaborate an appeal to come to replace those expected to depart due to
provide temporary shelter with free meals and at the end of their three-year employment contract
the same time implement training and values for-
period and the current state of labor shortages on
mation programs to empower the distressed OFWs
small and medium manufacturing firms.
while staying temporarily at the shelter house.
Another concrete plan that the member organiza- The total figure is up by 23,000 compare to last
tions have finalized in that meeting was on setting
year. In 2007, about 109,000 workers were intro-
up a communication network via text messaging on
duced under the Employment Permit System.
disseminating facts and information about Filipinos
Among them, 49,600 were general foreigners and
being caught by the Immigration Officers. This
aims to warn the members of the different member 60,000 were ethnic Koreans.
organizations to take extra care and avoid going to
places where Immigration Officers stay. This is a
The announcement did not include yet the specific
way of protecting and securing each other.
number of workers to be assigned to each sending
JPC, for years, has been consistently condemning
countries under the Employment Permit System
discrimination and repression manifested by some
(EPS) such as China, Thailand, Philippines, Sri
unscrupulous Korean employers against Filipino
migrant workers. Lanka, Vietnam, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Mongolia,
and other Asian countries.
Pledging full support to the JPC, a representative
stated that he is pleased with the continuous in-
volvement and focus on the issues and its concern The lists of industries in which employers are
permitted to employ foreign workers are almost the
in revising plans for the betterment of the community.
same as last year, except that lodging industry is
added to the list and that tourist hotels will be
Wages, Re-Hire Issues…
allowed to hire foreigners on a pilot basis. How-
the volunteers thru personal interview and phone ever, facility maintenance and management and
worker dispatch services, a subcategory of em-
calls.
ployment services, are removed from the list of
Record shows that in January, out of 66 inquiries: industries permitted to employ ethnic Koreans.
23, inquired and complained wages; 19, re-hiring
procedures; 9, change of workplace; 7, standard
labor policies; 5, insurances and alien card reg- The Ministry of Labor also reported the total foreign
istration; and 3, visa status. workers in Korea. As of December last year, there
were a total of 642,000 foreign workers staying in
“Wage inquiries and complaints in January are Korea. And according to their status of sojourn,
expected since the new basic salary has been set they can be divided as follows: 180,000 foreigners
off,” Juanites said.
with an employment visa including those 134,012
foreign workers holding an E9 visa under the
However, FEWA received 64 queries and com-
plaints in February: 21, re-hiring procedures; 19, Employment Permit System and 34,128 profes-
wages; 8, labor standard policies; 4, pregnancy sional workforces; 230,000 ethnic Koreans with an
case of workers and alien card registration; and 2, H-2 visa; 28,000 industrial trainees and foreign
visa status. workers hired for short-term employment; and
As confirmed by Philippine Overseas Labor Office
202,000 illegal foreigners.
(POLO), and Human Resources Development
www.sulyapinoy.org SULYAPINOY MARCH 2008 3
 NEWS / FEATURES
FEWA Holds Team Building…
The seminar aimed to develop proficiency and effi-
ciency in achieving desired task and goals by
means of good leadership, teamwork, cooperation
and camaraderie in an organization by using differ-
ent activities such as story-telling, role-playing,
unfreezing activities and group discussions among
Fewanians.
The first two sessions of the seminar were focused
mainly on leadership and organization, qualities of a
good leader, types of leadership, the mission and
vision of an organization and team elements.
On the other hand, the third and fourth sessions
highlighted the importance of each member in an
organization and setting priorities in connection with
time management.
Also, Human Rights Welfare Organization-Filipino
Community (HRWOFC) Vice-President Franklin
Caturla and Chairman on Funds and Projects Mo-
reno Esla from Cheong-ju City participated and
appreciated the importance of the seminar in the
organization.
“We hope that our community would conduct a
seminar such as this to inspire all members and
leaders to actively involve in pursuance of our ob-
jectives,” Caturla suggested.
Prof. Emely Dicolen-Abagat is currently the Chair-
man of the Education Committee of the Archdioce-
san Pastoral Center for Filipino Migrants, a Doctor
of Philosophy in Development Education, and Spe-
cialization in Education, Training and Values Forma-
tion are just among her professional background.
“If you sweat about the little stuff then you will fill life
with little things and you will never have the real
quality time you need to spend on the big and im-
portant one,” is just one of the lessons Prof. Abagat
shared with the participants.
Give Up Hypocrisy
by Maria Regina P. Arquiza
It feels so good to see the flowers as they
bloom in the spring season. A lot of people
have been waiting for this time of year since winter
is too cold and a bit gloomy.
New season.
New beginning.
New life.
The beginning of spring isn’t only about the season
change for a lot of Catholics.
The transition period between winter and spring is
the time when the season of Lent usually falls. The
meaning of the word Lent is derived from the Old
English Lenten, which means “lengthen.” This term
refers to the lengthening of the daylight hours that
occurs in the northern hemisphere as spring ap-
proaches. On the other hand, Lent is the time of
penitence, reflection, and prayer to strengthen the
relationship with God and renew one’s faith to Him.
People give up something as a form of sacrifice
during this period. “Adobo, pork afritada, sinigang
na baboy” should be forgotten for 40 days from Ash
Wednesday even until Easter Sunday. Wednes-
4 SULYAPINOY MARCH 2008 www.sulyapinoy.org
Philippine Edu-Culture Center:
by Elizer Peñaranda
In Unveiling the Philippines...
T he 7,107 beautiful islands of the Philippine archipelago seemed to be unconquerable for many
travelers. Fortunately, the natural wonders and vast culture of the Philippine Islands have been show-
cased splendidly in Metro Seoul, South Korea as the Philippine Edu-Culture Center (PECC) started its
programs in 2006. It aims to function as the hub of cultural exchange between Korea and the Philippines by
having the two countries understand their culture mutually and narrowing the gap thru providing information
and a variety of educational programs.
PECC Manager Hye Jin Park, also known as
Rebecca, welcomes the Filipino community and
informs about the different on-going projects and
plans of the center for the Filipino migrants.
In Valuing Education...
PECC recognizes the importance of mutual aware-
ness and understanding between Korea and the
Philippines in culture which eventually brings mutual
appreciation. This will open up brighter opportunities
for the Filipinos to teach the English language to
Koreans. It invites highly qualified English language
instructors to supply the needs of the learners when it
comes to the said language.
Also, the agency provides educational materials such
Miss Hye Jin Park (left), PECC Manager having one-on-one as books and fliers from some well-known universities
interview with SULYAPINOY Feature Editor and incoming
and learning institutions to promote Philippine educa-
Editor-in-Chief Elizer Peñaranda
tion to young Koreans.
In Exploring Culture...
The cultural heritage and the modern fashion and lifestyle of the Philippines are shown thru photographs and
films. The conventional art gallery showcases the Philippine artistry as it invites visitors.
Independent films and documentaries also satisfy enough one’s crave over the country’s faces, places and
events while enjoying one’s stay in the receiving area.
Currently, PECC is continuously enriching its
resource materials with the support from the
National Commission in Culture and Arts (NCCA) of
the Philippines.
In the People’s Center...
PECC, as it aimed to be the center of cultural
exchange, provides Free Legal Assistance with
lawyers from the Seoul Bar Association. Also, it
offers Free Eye Service with its ophthalmologist, Dr.
Lee Jun Suk. And it guides those Filipinos who seek
to have decent jobs.
Today, the Philippine Edu-Culture Center is continu- Miss Faith Ocampo (right), a Filipina student and a part-time
ously conducting its outreach programs for the clerk at PECC gathering initial data from OFW complainants
Filipino migrants to easily adapt themselves to the Korean culture; be at the forefront in educating the Kore-
ans thru the vast incomparable Philippine culture and arts.
days and Fridays are the days when meat should all thru His sufferings and death . People should
be avoided as part of the sacrifice. And then, remember that the Lenten season isn’t about
eating too much is also something that Catholics hypocrisy, what matters the most is the sincerity of
should avoid. Are these things really the meaning every individual to do good works to glorify God
of sacrifice? Is Lent about the things that people genuinely.
give up to show God that believing to the Gospel
and repentance exist? Or is it about what the Lord The beginning of spring calls for a celebration. It is
Jesus Christ sacrificed to pay for the sins of the not just because of the wonderful weather or the
world? new season per se, it is also the time for people to
repent and believe. Rejoice!
People might have different answers on these
given questions. Each person has his own way of “That in all things, God may be glorified.”
proclaiming the salvation Jesus Christ has won for

by Maria Regina P. Arquiza
S ince time immemorial, women have al-
ways been inferior with men in terms of
having equal voice and power. There has al-
ways been inequality and discrimination which
is a manifestation of societal immaturity.
Last March 8, the whole world celebrated the
International Women’s Day (IWD) to honor the
economic, political and social achievements of
women. A lot of women already proved their
worth in the society as successful profession-
als or individuals capable of doing things that
used to be doubted and questioned by civiliza-
tions.
Mother, sister, grandmother, daughter, nun,
niece, and so on should be celebrated! Every
woman is indeed important and special in her
own way. No matter what role every woman
plays in the society, she deserves the highest
degree of respect and honor.
A lot of people might be saying that mothers
are like “sirang plaka”. They love nagging their
kids and saying things over and over again.
This isn’t an exaggeration, but rather a pure
and genuine love that is manifested through
the use of million words. Kids are indeed an-
noyed, but aren’t those words expressed to
remind us that no matter what happens, there
will always be someone who will love us un-
conditionally? A mother is someone who gives
love and care without any inhibitions and reser-
vations. A mother’s love is pure and willing to
carry the pain and suffering of her children.
If mothers are being tagged as “sirang plaka”,
sisters on the other hand can be called as
“kontrabidas”. A lot of people feel that some
sisters block their plans and goals in life. That
it is just usual that the so called “competition”
can actually be seen between sisters. How-
ever, aren’t we aware that sisters are consid-
ered to be our best friends as well? We may
have a lot of friends from school, work, or vari-
ous organizations, but the persons who know
us well are our sisters. A sister’s love can be
equated with the real essence of friendship.
Grandmothers may not be “kontrabidas” in our
lives but maybe “baduy”. Grandmothers are
not just 20 years ahead, but almost a half
century older than us. With this, interests
and perspectives in life might be totally dif-
ferent in so many ways. The fashion sense
of our “lolas” and the idea of being conserva-
tive are things that bore the younger genera-
tion. But, have we forgotten that the persons
who consider us to be babies are our grand-
mothers? No matter how old we are, grand-
mothers will always consider their grandchil-
dren angels. They are like lawyers appealing
up to the Supreme Court defending their
grandchildren even if they committed the
heaviest crimes with the punishment of re-
clucion perpetua.
Isn’t being a stubborn daughter much more
“baduy” than a grandmother? As a daughter,
appreciation to what parents or grandparents
do is of great significance. Daughters should
be proud and honored with the love that the
women in their lives are giving them.
Different faces and different roles that
women play are of paramount importance.
Every woman is beautiful in her own way
and that exquisiteness deserves genuine
love and respect from everybody.
Lent – A Reflection
by Robert Ronelli
T he year was 2007. I was still living in
Jacksonville, Florida – a city of tre-
mendous potential given its number one
ranking for land area in all of America.
In addition the weather there is usually
gorgeous, far from arctic temperatures
and where even in December you can
still find sandals and cargo shorts being
worn, while shopping lazily on a Satur-
day near the beach or at a posh shop off
of Southside Boulevard.
I remember what I experienced spiritu-
ally, the closeness of God in my prayers
and my friends who demanded more out
of life than a Porsche and a blonde to go
with it. I remember what Pope John Paul
II said about the US, criticizing the pope
culture as “the culture of death.” Given
his spiritual insight and position, and also
personally witnessing the foray of orgies,
masked as dancing, I knew it was time to
commit and to change fundamentally.
The manifestation of our faith, as Catho-
lics must be visible. We must be true
examples in all areas of our life.
Last year I chose to give up alcohol for
Lent. My friends were shocked to hear
that during our normal drinking times,
Robert wouldn’t order a double Crown
and Coke, but just water or soda.
“Wow!” was the normal reaction which
www.sulyapinoy.org SULYAPINOY MARCH 2008
FEATURES
was significant in so many ways.
First was the personal change that took
place for me. I was saying to the world
that I was a Catholic Christian and that I
took my faith seriously.
Yes it’s easy to espouse one’s commit-
ment and love for Christ in the safety of a
Cathedral or Parish, but can it be done at
work or in a public space? Of course! In
fact by living the Faith, by practicing absti-
nence we become closer to God and real-
ize our potential in Him.
I remember people from serendipitous
encounters acknowledging, “Hmm. He’s
not drinking.” They were challenged and
rightly so. The normalcy of the environ-
ment was destroyed. Amidst the socializ-
ing and schmoozing was a person willing
to stick it out, willing to give up something
of value for something far more precious
but which requires faith to understand.
How the world needs more true Christians.
Even now, while writing my first article for
this paper I acknowledge my own failures.
I remember my CRHP (CRHP = Christ
Renews His Parish) brothers back in Flor-
ida and how, via the help of the Holy Spirit,
were able to share our life’s failures and
success regarding spiritual fidelity. I am
glad that via my Philippine ancestry that
Catholicism has been a major part of my
life.
For Lent 2008, I would like to wish every-
one the best as they continue to carry their
crosses for Him and for the inner strength,
faith, hope, and love that will be required
to finish. God speed!
For Comments, Suggestions,
Contributions & Advertisements
Please submit them to the ff. emails below:
News: newseditor@sulyapinoy.org
Feature: featureeditor@sulyapinoy.org
Sports: managingeditor@sulyapinoy.org
Literary: literaryeditor@sulyapinoy.org
All Staff: editorialstaff@sulyapinoy.org
Editor-in-Chief: EIC@sulyapinoy.org
Managing: managingeditor@sulyapinoy.org
• We reserve the right to refuse any
submission we deem does not meet
our policies and guidelines.
• SULYAPINOY is still in need of writ-
ers. Aspirants may email the Chief
Editor for more details.
Thank you for your time and interest!
5
 LABOR UPDATES
Legal Status and Obligation of Foreign Workers
Simplified by: Dondave Jabay (Source: Ministry of Labor)

Legal status of foreign workers

- All foreign workers, for the employment period, are under the same full protection of the labor laws like the Labor Standard Act, Minimum Wage Act, and
Industrial Safety and Health Act as Korean nationals. However, all household service workers, both foreign workers and Korean nationals, are not
covered by the said labor laws.

In case of household service, the employer and the foreign worker can decide and enforce all the labor conditions including working hours, dismissal,
day off, holiday within enforcement regulations of the Civil Law Act and according to the principle of freedom of contract.

- Some provisions of relevant regulations exceptionally apply to the foreign workers in agriculture, stockbreeding, and fisheries industries.

Example: Foreign workers in agriculture, stockbreeding, fisheries industries are not covered by the “Provision of Additional Wages (extension and holiday
work)” of the Labor Standard Act.

Applications for Business or Workplace

- Although the foreign worker is prohibited from transferring to other businesses or workplaces in principle, the foreign workers can apply to the competent
Employment Security Center (ESC) to move to another business or workplace in case normal reemployment relationship cannot be maintained due to
the following reasons.

Reasons for Foreign Worker’s Workplace Transfer Application:

- Employer wants to terminate the employment contract during its term under justifiable cause or refuses to renew it after its expiration.
- It is acknowledged that the worker cannot work at the workplace due to suspending or closing business and other causes not attributable to the foreign worker.
- The foreign worker employment permission is revoked or steps restricting the employment are taken against the workplace at which the worker is working.

Reasons for revocation of the foreign worker employment permission

- The employer breaches labor conditions including wages that have been agreed upon before the entrance into Korea
- It is acknowledged that the labor contract cannot be maintained due to delayed payment of wages by the employer and/or other violations of labor laws.
- The employment permission was obtained by means of misrepresentation and/or other misconduct.
Reasons for restricting the foreign worker employment
- The employer hires foreign workers without obtaining employment permission
- The foreign worker employment permission is revoked
- Be punished for the violations of the Employment Permit System Act or Immigration Control Act
- The employer has domestic workers leave his/her job by employment control for a period of 6 months from the date of issuance of the foreign worker
employment permission
- The employer ordered the foreign worker to work at any other businesses or workplaces than identified in the labor contract
- It is deemed that the foreign worker becomes unable to work at the business or workplace due to injury or other causes, but able to work at another
business or workplace

In Case Reason for Workplace Transfer Occurs:

- Application for Workplace Transfer shall be filed with the competent Employment Security Center (ESC) within 1 month after termination of the labor

If the workplace transfer permission under provisions of Article 21 of the Immigration Control Act is not issued within 2 months after its application date
or such application is not filed within 1 month after the termination of the labor contract with the employer, the foreign worker shall leave Korea.

Limitations on Foreign Worker Workplace Transfer:

- Foreign worker is not allowed to transfer to another workplace more than three times during the employment period. However, an additional transfer is
allowed if all three transfers have been caused by those cases as:
1) the worker cannot work at the workplace due to suspending or closing business and other causes not attributable to the foreign worker;
2) the foreign worker employment permission is revoked or steps restricting the employment are taken against the workplace; and
3) the foreign worker becomes unable to work due to injury
- Foreign worker’s transfer outside the industry is strictly prohibited.

The foreign worker who transferred to the workplace shall obtain a workplace transfer permission from the Immigration Bureau of MOJ.

Insurances and Trusts Application

- The workers who entered Korea become entitled to be covered by Employment Insurance and the corporate holder of Medical Insurance, and shall carry
return Cost Insurance/Trust and Casualty Insurance, etc.
- Some provisions of relevant regulations exceptionally apply to the foreign workers in agriculture, stockbreeding, and fisheries industries.
※ “Insurances and Trusts” details will be published in the next issue. Please keep posted!
6 SULYAPINOY MARCH 2008 www.sulyapinoy.org
 LITERARY
Prayer of a Solitary Man Being One With The Lord
by Edward Castro by Amie Sison

Tonight I'll ask the Lord for a strength that I don't quite feel. But then, The Lenten Season that we observed
maybe not quite feeling it lets me know that I'm still on the edge of feel- The passion of the Christ that we remembered
ing it, and I will be fine. But I still don't quite feel it, and I want to. I want to For our salvation he answered
feel strong and confident, and not to fake it. His crucifixion and resurrection he doesn't bothered.
Tonight I'll ask the Lord to carry me and not to stumble when I see the I am so ashamed of all of my sin
open door. Opportunities abound, please let me be able to grasp, NO! to Even I confessed I'm still unclean
be able to grab and hold what I need for me. On our world Satan is in between
Tonight I'll ask the Lord to give me wisdom, that I'll know what I need I apologize my Lord and I really mean.
when I see it so that I can accept it as it comes. Sometimes I've been As I observed the holy week
known to be blind to what is right in front of my face. Other times I've On fasting I'm always weak
been so stubborn that I've turned down a beautiful gift. This prayer is to Though I tried to be a strong as a brick
let me be open to the possibilities and gifts that are out there. Praising you like a mountain's peak.
Tonight I'll ask the Lord that he'll make me learn from my mistakes and What can I do to be so meaningful
take the lessons away that I am supposed to be learning. Or that I just At least to acknowledge your dramatic painful
learn something without having to make a mistake. For our future that you only want to be peaceful
Tonight I'll ask the Lord for that which is, of course, UNKNOWN. For the future. For the hopes in my life. I feel uncertain and fearful.
That yes, indeed, there is love out there that I can share in. That there is someone out there who is craving
My Lord, I will stay with you
the feel of me in her arms as I am longing for the same. All that lies in what I have yet to experience.
Hope to guide me on my life's view
Tonight I'll ask the Lord for understanding. For a sense of peace and calm in situations that have yet to see I will keep your words which all true
pace or calm, that usually revert to anger and resentment. I don't want to be right, I only want to be loved for On your resurrection I will join with you.
who I am. I don't want to have all the answers if it means I can continue to learn along the way. I don't want
to cry when I could be laughing. But I do. All of these things. I am this way, and I need to understand myself
before anyone else can. Or I need to accept myself before anyone else can.
Tonight I'll ask the Lord for rest. To sleep without fear of not waking up in time. To sleep without the con-
stant twiddle I replay. To sleep after I wrote everything down. To sleep so I'm not tired when asked ques-
tions I may or may not be prepared for tomorrow. To sleep, conceivably to dream, of a hand holding mine,
letting me know that I am not alone.
Tonight I'll ask the Lord for trust. Trust in my experience and capabilities from me and from others. Trust
that I do know what I'm doing. Trust that whatever future I'm building for myself, that it will work out how it's
supposed to. Maybe not according to my plan, but the plan that works best for me, HIS PLAN. Trust that I
will be able to catch myself if I do fall. And pick myself up. And go on.

Eastern Right The Lent

by Katrina Macasaquit
You rise, O Lord, in a lightening power,
drawing, pulling our sisters and brothers
from their lonely graves
first Eve and Adam, now living, breathing
from their stone tombs, as you kick
the doors of death with the panels
of your cross, grasping, with warm
hands, their hands that lay cold, lifeless
in the earth
Locked in darkness
with fetters and chains, an oblivion
of dark hidden from loving-kindness,
locked and sealed from breathing
and holding, feeling life’s caress,
and waiting for glory’s moment of Pascha,
moment of exodus, moment of love,
moment of freedom to live and give,
log due praise and glory to God above.
(an anecdote of a believer)
by Amie Sison
Semana Santa or Cuaresma or Holy Week is the most significant
religious practice of our Christian faith. Observing Holy Week has
various ways but still we have common reasons to commemorate
the Passion of Christ.
When I was young, I had no idea what Lenten season is. I remem-
bered my father who carried me on his shoulder while I mimicked
the palm leaves called “Palaspas”. Not until, when my mother
taught me that Palm Sunday is the start of Jesus journey to Jerusa-
lem and the people waved the palm leaves because they acknowl-
edge Him as a King. Before, I have no idea about the Maundy
Thursday and Good Friday when my family woke up on the early
Friday morning. We walked barefooted toward the miraculous Landayan Church. My mother said that Good
Friday commemorates Jesus Christ’s death. It is the time of sadness and a time of asking forgiveness. As I
watched the “Senakulo” I couldn't understand why those people need to hurt Jesus badly during His time.
At night, we have lighted candles and watched the procession to remember Christ Death and Resurrection.
Most of the images were expressing sadness and sacrifices. The next day, my mother said that Black Sat-
urday is the saddest day because we commemorate the death of Jesus. On the Easter Sunday, we had to
leave our home for Church at dawn to watch the "Salubong". It is a traditional celebration every Easter
Sunday dramatizing the encounter between Risen Jesus Christ and mother Mary while the children who act
as angels singing around them.
We have our own traditions as we commemorate the Lenten Season. And we all realized how much Jesus
Christ suffered for us. On this season, we reflect on our faith as we believe in Him that He saved us. He
invites us for our spiritual enlightenment. We are the servants who always receive His unconditional love.
And we can return back our love to Him by forgiving those who have sinned us. Instead of inflicting punish-
ment, let us open our hearts and mind, and prayer is the best thing we can do.
I believe even sinners as Christians want to improve one’s spiritual life. For this Lenten Season, I hope that
we should deepen our faith in Him. Happy Easter!

www.sulyapinoy.org SULYAPINOY MARCH 2008 7

 LET’S LEARN KOREAN / ANNOUNCEMENTS
Subject
Basic Korean Lesson 3
홍희창 (Hong Hee-Chang), Korean Teacher of Miriam Center School - Hyewadong
Our next lesson is about subject. In first lesson, we
By: had studied on how to find a subject in a sentence.
Actually, those topics were all about subject. Now we
안녕하세요? 한국어 세 번째 시간입니다. 그 동안 한국어 공부를 will study more techniques about subject. Do you
많이 했습니까? I believe you! remember the ending letters signifying the words as
은는이가
subject of the sentence? Those are - , - , - , - .
Our lesson for this issue is still about verb. Actually, we have studied about 은는
We can divide them into two groups. One is / ,
verb in our last issue but it was not yet finished. So now we will continue learn-
요
ing about – verb stem ending rule.
이가
and the other one is / . What is the difference
from each other?
–요 Example:
‘-요’ is used in conversation with colleague and someone not your friend or A) 내가 집에 갑니다 . (I go to home.)
someone you don’t know. But don`t use it when you write or talk with your
요
boss. It is so easy to use. Just say – after verb stem. Let’s practice.
나는
In this sentence, ‘ (I)’ is the main reason to
speak. ‘Who’ is the main information or more impor-
원형 (base form) 다
Rule – 요
Rule –
tant idea of the sentence.

가다 갑니다. 가요 B) 나는 집에 갑니다 . (I go to home.)

오다 옵니다. 와요 집에 갑니다
Here, is the main reason to speak.

먹다 먹습니다. 먹어요 Action is the main information or more important idea

of the sentence. Actually subject is not necessary. So,
하다 합니다. 해요 집에 갑니다
it is possible to say ‘ .’

다 요 다 요 은는
When you explain some action, use / . But if you
Which is easier? Verb stem ending rule –
–요
or – ? Maybe rule – is easier than – . But actually rule
요
is easy to speak. When you make a question sentence, using – , just rise your voice in the end and want to say something about someone, use / . 이가
in writing use a question mark. That`s all. Don’t think it is difficult to use. You can use it naturally.
But in our lesson we don’t use rule –요. Because you can only use –요 for speaking and our lesson is
Don`t be afraid. Actually, Korean people don`t know
focusing on reading and writing. So, I think type –다 is more important for us.
about it. We just speak naturally. So if you made some
mistakes, nobody could know it.
Ok. It is basic about verb. Let`s practice more. I will give you a lot of verbs. Please use a dictionary and OK, time is up. Today, we studied about verb and
confirm their meaning.
subject. Next time we will study about object. It is easy
원형 Rule –다 Question also. So, don’t worry about it. And please use a dic-

이다. 입니다. 입니까?

tionary when you don`t know the meaning of some
words. It will increase your Korean vocabulary, thus
있다. 있습니다. 있습니까? improves your speaking and reading skills.

없다. 없습니다. 없습니까? Thank you for reading.

감사합니다. 다음 시간에 만나요..
듣다 듣습니다. 듣습니까?
읽다 읽습니다. 읽습니까?
마시다 마십니다. 마십니까? ERRATUM
입다. 입습니다 입습니까? In last February Issue, the news arti-
Additional vocabularies: cle entitled FEWA Visits HRWOFC
보다. 사다. 팔다. 만나다. 일하다. 쉬다. 자다. 일어나다. 운동하다. 배우다. 공부하다. was mistakenly dated as January 7
재미있다. 어렵다. 쉽다. 많다. 적다. 크다. 작다. 좋다. 나쁘다. 괜찮다. 시키다. 비싸다. 싸 and should have been February 7.
다. 따듯하다. 덥다. 춥다. 맑다. 흐리다. 행복하다.
SULYAPINOY Editorial Staff regret
These are necessary vocabularies. So you must know how to use them and memorize their meaning.
They are very helpful to your daily life in Korea. the error.

Dear Readers:
DISCLAIMER
SULYAPINOY is launching a continuous donation program dubbed as HELP US TO HELP YOU
due to the following reasons and objectives: Different opinions are encourage to stimulate
member input and involvement. SULYAPI-
1. Inadequate financial sponsors to support its monthly printing expenses.
2. To increase its monthly distribution copies by 50% to ensure majority of its readers NOYs role is to provide information that per-
(Filipino OFW) will receive a copy regularly. mits FEWA members to develop informed
3. To increase its regular issue frequency from monthly to a bi-monthly issue. opinions on subjects that will affect their
status as migrant workers and, in some in-
In this connection, SULYAPINOY is asking your generous support to this program. You can give stances, their personal lives. FEWA does not
your donation of any amount at SULYAPINOY distribution area or at its office at OK AIRTEL VI- hold itself responsible for statements
SION ASIA (in front of Hyehwa Catholic Church) and Woori Bank during Sundays from 10:00 AM made by any contributor. Statements or
to 5:00 PM. If you have questions please contact (010-9294-4365 / 010-8682-7021) or email at opinions expressed in SULYAPINOY re-
sulyap_chiefeditor@hotmail.com or sulyap_managing@hotmail.com or sainofos@yahoo.com. flect the views of the author(s) and not the
Thank you to your constant support. SULYAPINOY is wishing you the best throughout the year! official policy of FEWA unless so stated.

8 SULYAPINOY MARCH 2008 www.sulyapinoy.org

 FUN & LEARN
Instructions:
1. Fill the grid so that the numbers 1 through
9 appear in each row.
2. Fill the grid so that the numbers 1 through
By: Alden C. Balgos 9 appear in each column.
By: Dave & Alwyin 3. Fill the grid so that the numbers
Reviewed by: Angela, Korean Teacher of Miriam Center School
8 7 4 2 1 1 through 9 appear in each 3x3

A) 금지표지 Geum-Ji Pyo-Ji Prohibition Sign 2 6

Chul-Ip Geum-Ji Sa-Yong Geum-Ji
box.
4. A complete Sudoku puzzle con-
9 1 2 7 tains the numbers 1 through 9 in
every row, column, and 3x3 box.
6 7
The most exciting part!!!
1 5 The first person to answer the
4 1 puzzle correctly will receive a
reward in courtesy of SULYAPI-
4 5 8 9 NOY Editorial Staff. How to re-
Ta-Ja Ma-Shi-O port your answer? Please call
5 8 010-3982-2160 or email at
6 9 7 1 3 editorialstaff@sulyapinoy.org.

15 10 Answer to February Issue

3
1 2
10 8
30
7 9 8 6
3 9
15 14 CONGRATULATIONS TO
1 2 2 3 (1) 4 (6)
4 Jesica Leyesa (1st person who got
6 3 the perfect answer) and
Seung-Yong Ja-Dong-Cha 2 3 1 2 1
Ji-Na-Ga-Ji Ma-Shi -O 9
Tong-Haeng-Geum-Ji 14 Aiko, HFCC Chairman for Sports
3 5 4 2
and Recreation Committee (2nd
17 4 6 (8) 7 (5) person who got the perfect answer)

By: Sofonias ‘Chabok’ Paragsa

Geu-Myeon Bul Sa-Yong Geum-Ji Om-Gi-Ji Ma-Shi-O 사 관

1 1
B) 경고 표지 Gyeong-Go Pyo-Ji Caution Sign 2
학 생 3
지 2 3
4
아 마 도
5
4 5
6
자 시 6
사 7
랑 한 다
8
7 8
생 쪽
9
혜 화 10
동
택 11
대 화 9 10
12
창 문 11
In-Hwa-Seong Mul-Jil-Ju-Ui San-Hwa-Seong Mul-Jil
Answer to February Issue 12

ACROSS DOWN
1) undocumented alien 1) the depraved, bully
2) large quantity 3) scholar
4) mate, life partner 5) post office
7) Korean 6) protection against the cold
9) rent, lend, loan 7) bald headed person
11) music 8) civil law
12) Korean liquor 9) ask, beg
10) next week
Pok-Bal-Mul Dok-Geuk-Mul Go-Ap-Jeon-Gi Bang-Sa-Seong Mul-Jil

www.sulyapinoy.org SULYAPINOY MARCH 2008 9

 OUR PARTNER

외국인 노동자 인권복지회 필리핀공동체

HRWOFC Historical Background Sing with glorious praise to the Lord!

Join the Messenger Choir of God
The organization started when the migrant center here in Cheongju hired a
Filipina volunteer to act as a representative and a negotiator for all Filipinos.
For more than 3 years, this center have helped many Filipinos. The way
they handled the problems made them successful and became famous in
various places.

Their unfailing support and love to foreigners enticed the leaders of Filipinos
to organize the Filipino community here in Cheongju and to support the
center who have done a remarkable contribution at the Filipino Community.
The name of this migrant center is Human Rights Welfare Organization for
Foreign Workers. For this reason, volunteers organized a community under
the banner of this center. The plan paved the way in the creation of the
HUMAN RIGHTS WELFARE ORGANIZATION for FILIPINO COMMUNITY.

One of the adviser is the deputy president of HRWO. He is a Korean who

dedicates himself to help foreigners. Even these days, he still leads the
center. HRWOFC was organized 2 years ago but it has been known when
the organization was registered in Phil. Embassy .
Our vision is to promote Unity and to help all the Filipinos not only the
OFW’s but even those who are married to Koreans.
STANDING L-R: SOR MARGARET, TERE , MARITESS, ANNIE B.,
FR. EDWARD, ANNIE, SIS.LYDIA, RACHEL, RANDY, AMY, ANTHON,
RODOLF, MICHAEL, BRO. THOMAS
SEATED L-R: SIS. JENNY, SIS. MARTINA, JEFFREY, MORENO, NEL,
SIS.JULIANA, MANNY & MAX
Hung Dok Catholic Church, Cheongju City, South Korea
For more info. Please call 01094143434

We have organized this community because we have seen that many of our
countrymen are being abused or maltreated by their employers or hus- HRWOFC OFFICERS
bands.. We have encountered different cases and we were grateful that our
President - Ana Maria M. Adante
efforts have become successful and we were recognized as the leading
Vice- President - Franklin U. Caturla
community here in Cheongju. Secretary - Imelda C. Dahan Asst. Secretary - Riclay T.
Abadejos
We have also offered our services to the home for the aged. That was the Treasurer - Rosario A. Balgua Asst. Treasurer - Melody A.
first time that the foreigners had served Korean people. They are now antici- Tumala
pating that we can continue our efforts and we can extend our effort / ser- Auditor - Evangeline R. Retuta
vices to the members and even those in Philippines . We had donated some Asst. Auditors - Myla G. Sanchez, Virgilio G. Santos
money to the Elderly Association, last Christmas. In response, they had sent Public Information Officers - Emily Cabañog, Jeffrey
us a plaque of appreciation. Mendoza, Alerico A. Barrozo, Marino Demaangay,
Jovito Gregorio
Our goal is to continue our efforts to offer free services to all even to the Peace Keeping Officers - Roosevelt L. Velayo,
Koreans, to promote unity, friendship and to provide just and fair justice to Danilo D. Palac, Rolly P. Gerona, Ruben T. Manuel,
everyone, even the Human rights violation. Mario D. Pusung
Jochiwon Representative - Arnel S. Hebra
Jeongpyeong Representatives - Oswaldo D.Lipata,
Ma. Gracelina D. Ramos
PLAQUE OF APPRECIATION Oksan Representatives - Elmer S. Sarad, Melchor C. Calma
Ochang Representatives - Richard C. Somngi, Christian Ylen
is hereby awarded to Human Rights Welfare Organization for
Filipino Community (HRWOFC) Cheongju City, South Korea COMMITTEES
Chairman - Funds & Projects - Moreno D. Esla
In full recognition and grateful acknowledgement for sharing of her Vice- Chairman - Funds & Projects - Antholyn S. Hernandez
invaluable and unselfish Chairwoman - Legal Affairs - Helen N. Balgos
support for Gabay sa Nakatatanda Association (GANA), Chairman - Sports - Christopher J. Guerra Co-Chairman-
Brgy. Bagong Silang, Sports - Joel Pahate
Quezon City, Philippines. Chairwoman - Program - Hera Jubelag
Chairwoman - Community Services - Surala D. Vega
Given this 11th day of January in the year of our Lord 2008. Adviser- Ahn Geon Soo
Spiritual Adviser - Rev. Edward Whelan, M.M

10 SULYAPINOY MARCH 2008 www.sulyapinoy.org

 FACES, PLACES, & PACES / OUR SPONSOR

Photo by Edward Castro Auto shot by Amie Sison

OFW complainants gathered at the Philippine Edu-Culture Center (PECC) in Editorial Staff showed a strong bonding as they posed together
Jonggak, Seoul to avail free legal and labor related consultations during their “noraebang” session at Hyehwadong, Seoul.

1 - Miguel M. Baltero 25 - Eliseo A. Blas

5 - Edilberto R. Ejis 26 - Alejandro A. Valenzuela
6 - Joselito C. Apostol Jocelyn N. Padagdag
11 - Larry M. Laririt 27 - Rebeck P. Beltran
13 - Elizer M. Peñaranda Ma. Theresa D. Noma
12 - Edison D. Cabiles Jr. 29 - Nerissa C. Abiera
14 - Christopher V. Mationg Sherwin E. Ecita
15 - Michael B. Paelden 30 - Eduardo M. Ico Jr.
17 - Earl Barredo Fr. Alvin B. Parantar, MSP

www.sulyapinoy.org SULYAPINOY MARCH 2008 11

OUR SPONSOR

12 SULYAPINOY MARCH 2008 www.sulyapinoy.org Printed by