FEBRUARY 2011
INSIDE
Finally, its own ...
PCCT stages own
Trade Show
>>> page 7
In the matter of
objectivity in news
reporting ...
From the Monitor’s
Desk >>> page 8
My Facebook
friends are just ...
ahh ... ahh ...
just doing great on
the site.
Ooops and Bloops
>>> page 11
Torontonians’ concerns on health and active lives receive boosting
The concerns of Torontonians
on health issues and active lives
received boosting recently with
the inauguration of Strength-N-
U Programs and Facility (on
fitness and nutrition).
Strength-N-U offers
programs and facility to help
clients dominate life’s daily
challenges.
Even the Heart and Stroke
FOR ADVERTISING AND INQUIRIES, PLEASE CALL (416) 285-8583 OR EMAIL MANILAMEDIAMONITOR@ROGERS.COM
Toronto, Ontario
‘Biggest Summer Event’ slated back to back in Toronto
This summer, there will be two munity at large at the Metro this summer. with the Philippine Canadian
big festivals aimed at Filipino Toronto Convention Centre Both events billed themselves as Charitable Foundation (PCCF).
Canadians and the Toronto com- (MTCC) in downtown Toronto the biggest summer event in Major sponsor to this event is
Canada. The first on stage is the GMA Pinoy TV – a station
NEWEST RP TOAST IN BOXING: Donito Donaire stops “Pinoy Fiesta & Trade Show sa primarily established by GMA
Mexico’s Fernando Montiel in the second round to take the Toronto” to be held Saturday, June Network, one of the two leading
World Boxing Council (WBC) and World Boxing Organization 25 this year. The event is the networks in the Philippines,
(WBO) bantamweight titles. Donaire took a right to the head product of a partnership signed by primarily aimed at overseas
from the champion, then immediately countered with a the Philippine Chamber of Filipinos and their families in the
devastating left to the head that sent Montiel crumpling to Commerce—Toronto (PCCT) >>> Biggest, page 3
the canvas. The title bout was held in Last Vegas, Saturday,
February 19.
Metro’s Filipino Kiwanis Club
works to ease RP children’s pain
The Kiwanis Club of Filipino Filipino Metro Toronto,
Metro Toronto has underscored Sunday, February 13, in North
the significance of its work in York, Ontario, Club President
partnership with Quintin Palisoc, cited
Kiwanis International the work of Kiwanis
in alleviating the plight International, in
of disadvantaged cooperation with his
children in the world, club, among others, on
including those in the the project “Sleeping
Philippines. Bags”, for the the
In his remarks at the poor children in the
2nd Charter Night of Philippines.
the Kiwanis Club of Quintin Palisoc >>Story , page 14
Foundation’s 2011 Report on Christian Alvarez, proponent of and teams from one football league lenge everyone to come in and join
Canadians’ Health has “Strength-N-U”, said the programs Alvarez said Strength-N-U’s us. From the climbing wall, the
emphasized that nine out of ten of the facility is designed to programs promise to unleash an jungle gym, rope climb, the tire
Canadians jeopardize the quality maximize an individual’s workout inner potential aimed at obtaining flips to the absolute onslaught of
and length of their lives, because on all planes. the competitive edge against the exercises we have the mental and
many are in denial about their risk Run by among the very fiercest of opponents and physical test for everyone.”
factors for heart disease, such as experienced and best physical obstacles. He added, “Strength-N- One special program being run
being overweight and physically trainors in the industry — under U has a multitude of different by the facility is called “Strength-
inactive – risk factors, which the whom some sportspeople and exercises and programs to test N-Youth”.
report said Canadians could teams of all ages continue to participants and elevate their According to Carlo Balagasay,
manage and control. undergo training, Strength-N-U game.” Strength-N-U’s Programs
challenges and invites sports teams He stressed, “The workouts are Director, “Strength-N-Youth” is an
of all calibers and ages, as well as proven to improve them mentally educational in-school program that
individuals who are looking for a and physically. teaches exercise and nutrition
serious body blitz workouts, to try “We get participants’ nutrition while encouraging youth to begin
its proven ways and methods. and physical fitness goals in check, defining their strengths.
Among those undergoing trai- while redefining their strength. So, “Physical activity, fitness,
ning with “Strength-N-U” are two if one is looking to redefine the nutritional counselling, recreation
junior hockey and a soccer team strength in him or her, then we cha- and sports are all important
contributing factors in youth
“We are a company working with people to define their inner development and act as a
strength through physical trials,” Christian Alvarez and Carlo protective tool for children who
Balasagay say (left and right in photo), as they welcome guests at are at risk,” Balagasay said.
the Grand Opening of Strength-N-U Programs and Facility (on fitness
He said that “Strength-N-Youth
and nutrition) at 80 Milner Avenue, Unit 10 in Scarborough, Ontario.
Some 200 guests and well-wishers came during the open house
acts as a strong deterrent to anti-
from 12 to 4 PM, Saturday, January 22, 2011. (Courtesy: Kegan Sant) >>> See Torontonians, page 24
2 Manila Media Monitor, February 2011
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011
Biggest >>> From page 1
Philippines. The network airs
programming produced by its
flagship station in the Philippines
and could be accessed in Canada,
the United States, Japan, Guam,
Saipan, Papua New Guinea,
Singapore, the Middle East, North
Africa, Hong Kong, Europe and
Australia.
Organizers of the “Pinoy Fiesta
& Trade Show sa Toronto”, in a
press release, said their event is
“the largest trade show and event
in Canada”.
The other event, called “One
Kapamilya sa Mabuhay Festival
and Trade Show” will be held a
month later, Saturday, July 23
this year. Primary sponsor to this
event is ABS-CBN, which
organizer, the Philippine
Independence Day Council
(PIDC) in its press release,
described as “the Philippine’s
first, and largest, integrated
media and entertainment
company.”
In a press release, the PIDC
also claimed that its event is “the
largest celebration of Philippine
heritage and culture in Canada.”
Some members of the Filipino
Canadian media in Toronto
opined that the two summer
festivals – each supported by the
warring television networks in
the Philippines, are dividing the
Filipino Canadian community.
For one, journalist Romeo
Marquez, in an article published
3
last January 30 in “Currents and easily gave in to solicitations ted out, however, that as far as own charitable work objectives.
Marasigan added that he wishes
Breaking News”and published on of either organizers to merit the PCCF is concerned, his
the internet, said,”That’s how far their headline stories, worst, organization does not have the best for both festivals at the
the Kapamilya (refers to ABS- based on press releases. anything to do with the MTCC this summer.
CBN) and Kapuso(refers to GMA) M a n i l a M e d i a M o n i t o r competing interests of the two For more information on the two
followers have gone in their battle reached Minda Neri, president Philippine television networks, back-to-back events this summer
for the pockets of thousands of of the PIDC, who said that she but brought in GMA Pinoy TV at the MTCC, turn to page 4. (Ace
Filipinos in Toronto, at least, does not see the two events at as its major sponsor for PCCF’s Alvarez)
where a thriving Filipino the Metro Toronto Convention
community has been turned into a C e n t r e a s a n e t w o r k s w a r
battleground of competing b e t w e e n t h e t w o t e l e v i s i o n
business interests.” giants in the Philippines. She
In the same online publication, explained that it so happened
Marquez also said in his article, that ABS-CBN is this year’s
entitled “Philippine Networks major sponsor to the Mabuhay
Wage Proxy Wars in Toronto’s Festival, in the same manner
Filipino Community”: “The that during the last two years,
Philippines’ two giant networks she was happy working with
are unwittingly tearing the fabric GMA network as well.
of Filipino family apart. Their On the other hand, Jimmy
mostly nonsensical shows - Marasigan, president of the
entertainment fare that caters to PCCF – the organization which
prurient interests - are aggressively is providing the entertainment
marketed in North America, part to the Pinoy Fiesta said
specifically in Toronto, Canada, that both ABS-CBN and GMA
with little or no regard to whether Pinoy TV have the right to
they ruin or uphold Filipino compete for the patronage of
values. Their intense marketing subscribers to their respective
strategies have been reduced to programming services. He poin-
proxy wars
b e t w e e n
JOBS! JOBS! JOBS!
families and
organizations
Industrial and Warehouse
of competing
interests.”
Compounding Staffing Ltd.
the issue is that
s o m e Now accepting applicants with
publishers and/ Primary and Bindery experience
or editors of and General Labour
Filipino papers Fax Resume at (416) 292-9857
in Toronto
4 Manila Media Monitor, February 2011
Pinoy Fiesta & Trade Show
Sa Toronto:
‘Biggest Event This Summer’
The Philippine Canadian
Charitable Foundation
(PCCF) and GMA Pinoy TV
have proudly announced
that the Greater Toronto
Area will witness this year
the biggest trade show and
entertainment event, which
by far, has been organized
by any organization/s for the
benefit of the Filipino
Canadian community.
This announcement was
made jointly by Jimmy
Marasigan, president of the
Philippine Canadian
Charitable Foundation
(PCCF) and Rosemer
Enverga, GMA Pinoy TV
Development and
Marketing Consultant for
Canada, who said that they
are very excited to work
with the Philippine
Chamber of Commerce-
Toronto (PCCT) to provide
the entertainment
component for the “Pinoy
Fiesta & Trade Show sa
Toronto.
Dubbed as the “Pinoy
Fiesta & Trade Show sa
Toronto”, Marasigan and
Enverga said the event has
three-pronged objectives, as
follows: first, to provide a
wider exposure to PCCT
business and exhibitors, from
where — in the words of
PCCT President Oswald
Tugadi and Trade Show
Chair Rafael Nebres,
“visitors from the diverse
communities in the greater
Toronto area would have a
good grasp of the products
and services that the Filipino
Canadian business sector
carries and offers, and from
which they could engage in
cross sales and marketing,”
From the point of view of
the PCCF, Marasigan
pointed out that the event
will be a great avenue for the
foundation to raise funds
where evrybody could share
their bounties in Canada
with those of “our poor
brothers and sisters in the
Philippines.” He said that
funds generated by the
PCCF will be used for
charitable purposes, mainly
through the building of
houses for the poor through
ANCOP Canada, the
Kapuso Foundation and
other worthy charities. He
said that this way, it will not
be too burdensome for
anybody to do one’s acts of
charity – especially
considering the economic
weather these times.
On the entertainment angle
angle, Enverga said GMA
Pinoy TV is excited at this PIDC announces partnership with ABS CBN
opportunity to work with the The Philippine Independence CBN is the Philippine’s first
PCCF and the PCCT to Day Council (“PIDC”) and largest integrated media
to accomplish their mutual
mandate of showcasing the
bring in person before the welcomed 2011 with and entertainment company.
eyes of fans their favorite renewed vigor and Spokespersons from
best of the Philippines to the
rest of the world.
“Kapuso” stars. GMA Pinoy excitement for this year’s ABS-CBN noted PIDC’s Months prior to the
TV was primarily upcoming events. proven record of staging signing of PIDC’s
incorporated by GMA Members of the volunteer- successful, well-attended agreement, Request for
Network for the benefit of based organization have events pointing out it is a Proposals (“RFP”) were
overseas Filipinos. been hard at work planning strategic partnership that sent to ABS-CBN and two
Enverga, in the meantime, for the new year with a will allow them to other entertainment
kept the fans to hold their significant announcement “continuously serve and conglomerates. All were
breath on who are coming , made at a press conference bring countless Filipinos in given the same deadline but
saying, “Will it be Marian held January 24, 2011. Canada back home not only only ABS-CBN responded
Rivera and Dingdong Dantes; This year’s Mabuhay through programs on TFC by the due date. A PIDC
or, the newly- married Regine Festival and Trade Show, the but also by staging ‘relevant’ project Review Committee
and Ogie? Perhaps, Aljur largest celebration of events that reflect their convened to go over the
Abrenica, with Rachel Ann Philippine heritage and needs, dreams and proposal and negotiations
Go; or, is it possible to be all culture in Canada, will be aspirations.” In addition, the with ABS-CBN began in
of them? “Whoever they held in partnership with collaboration between the October. As a result of the
are,” she promised, “the ABS-CBN Canada. ABS- two groups will enable both >>> PIDC, page 6
Kapuso stars are guaranteed
to keep the audience in their
seat by the entertainment
program being arranged for
them.”
The “Pinoy Fiesta & Trade
Show sa Toronto” will be
held from 8 am to 11 pm,
Saturday, June 25, 2011 at the
Metro Toronto Convention
Centre, Hall C, 255 Front
Street W, in Toronto.
For info on vendors and
exhbitors, call Oswald
Tugadi, (416) 850-4966,
(416) 299-6160 or Rafael
Nebres, (416) 618-1362; for
sponsorships, call Rosemer
Enverga, (416) 284-9299;
Jimmy Marasigan, (905) 472-
3194; or Romy Rafael, (416)
985-2606.(PR)
>>>
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011 5
6 Manila Media Monitor, February 2011
Toronto Police Clearance Check now Online
The Toronto Police Service has
introduced a new “online”
Clearance Letter application.
A police clearance check is an
important process that may affect
future employment, volunteer
work or acceptance to educational
institutions. It is a popular topic
that regularly comes up not only
from newcomers, but also
community members that have, in
the past, neglected to acquire.
Most employers and government
agencies require police clearance
checks to complete the application
process for jobs or volunteer work
while most schools require
Vulnerable Sector Screening or
Police Reference Check Program.
Individuals also need it if they
are applying for permanent
residency in Canada.
Clearance Letter
and Criminal Record Check
The online Clearance Letter
Application can be found by
navigating at torontopolice.on.ca
and is located on the left side of
the main page. If you choose this
option, you may pick up your
Clearance Letter from one of our
designated locations.
A Clearance Letter is a formal
document issued by the Toronto
Police Service indicating that the
person of the inquiry has no
criminal convictions in the
National Repository of Criminal
Records maintained by the RCMP.
Two pieces of government issued
identifications are required, one of
which must contain a photo and
signature.
For special circumstances such
as students teaching at another
country or Canadian citizens living
outside Canada, an authorized
person may be allowed to submit
the request on their behalf. Please
contact the main line: 416-808-
8244 for further instructions.
If you have a criminal record,
you are not eligible for a Clearance
Letter.
Fingerprints will be required for
positive identification before
criminal records are released. You
must attend an RCMP-accredited
fingerprinting agency listed in
your local telephone book or on-
line under fingerprinting services.
If you have criminal charges
before the courts, you may still be
eligible for a Clearance Letter;
however, your letter will state
“before the courts”.
The cost Clearance Letters or
Criminal Record Check is $28.25
(taxes included).
Fee is non-refundable.
Vulnerable Sector Screening
Police Reference Check
Program (PRCP form) is a
program used to assist schools,
churches, nursing homes, and
other agencies to determine the
suitability of candidates for full or
part-time employment or volunteer
duties. This is used to check
workers having direct contact with
children and vulnerable
persons.(PR)
PIDC >>> from page 4
historic partnership, a few
members of PIDC’s Board of
Directors had to resign due to
conflict of interest with ongoing
relationships with competing
media groups.
“One Kapamilya sa Mabuhay
Festival and Trade Show” will be
held on Saturday, July 23, 2011 at
the Metro Toronto Convention
Centre, South Building Hall E.
This year’s chair for the event is
Lorenzo Villaruz (phone: 416 826-
6077 email: lcvjr88@yahoo.ca)
and the Vice Chair is Buddy Ibe
(phone 416 451-2833 email:
buddy.ibe@gmail.com). The 11th
annual festival promises to bring
high calibre talent from the
extremely popular ABS-CBN
talent pool. It will also feature the
best Filipino-Canadian performers
including iconic groups such as the
Fiesta Filipina Dance Troupe and
Culture Philippines Canada. For
ticket information, contact Norma
Carpio (phone: 416 975-1473
e m a i l :
pedrocarpio@sympatico.ca) and
vendor inquiries, call Evelyn
Pagkalinawan (phone: 416 727-
5853 email:
evelynp2010@yahoo.com)
PIDC Miss Philippines and
Little Miss Philippines have yet to
announce their date and venue but
interested candidates can contact
pageant Chair Rorie Elafano
(phone 416 733-7818 email:
aelafano@yahoo.com) or Vice
Chair Gene Elamparo (phone 416-
284-3547 and Cesar Mañebo, (647)
829-9187. To inquire about Little
Miss Philippines, contact Suzy
Llanera at (phone: 416 421-4289)
The Independence Day Gala is
scheduled on Friday, June 10, 2011
to be held at Le Jardin - Versailles
Room located at 8440 Highway
27, Woodbridge. For details on
how to purchase tickets, contact
event Chair Norma Carpio (phone
905 257-1059 email:
pedrocarpio@sympatico.ca) or
Vice Chair Filomena Ticzon
(phone: 416 736-5068 email:
fticzon@schulich.yorku.ca)
The annual “Salu-Salo sa Earl
Bales Park” Community picnic
will be held on Saturday, June 18,
2011 at Earl Bales Park located at
the corner of Bathurst and
Sheppard. The event starts at 10
am and runs until 8 pm. If you and/
or your group would like to join
in this fun-filled day in the park,
please contact event chair Imie
Belanger (phone: 647 281-5528
email: imiebelanger@yahoo.ca) or
Vice Chair Pete Mauricio (phone:
905 301-8408 email:
pmauricio@sympatico.ca),Gene
Elamparo (phone: 416 284-3547
email: gene.elamparo@rb.com
JOBS! JOBS! JOBS!
Industrial and Warehouse
Staffing Ltd.
Now accepting applicants with
Primary and Bindery experience
and General Labour
Fax Resume at (416) 292-9857
and Cesar Mañebo (phone: 647
829-9187).
The wildly popular Mabuhay
Cup Basketball Championship
Tournament is a three-day event
scheduled on July 8, 9 and 10,
2011. Teams will compete at the
Hoop Dome located at 75 Carl Hall
Road, Toronto. Teams who would
like to sign up for this fantastic
tournament can contact event
Chair Vilma Tahsin (phone 416
697-7201 email:
vtahsin@deloitte.ca or Vice Chair
Manny Villamor - Sport Director
(email: parafina@sympatico.ca),
Bobby San Juan -
Communications (phone: 416 697-
5197) and Rory Elefano - Ads and
Programming (phone: 416 733-
7818 email:
aelefano@yahoo.com) stating “the
addition of new faces to PIDC has
opened the door for people to
participate. I am confident that the
new team will deliver a first class
event.” Despite its recent
challenges, PIDC remains a
stalwart organization that provides
the community with events that
serve as a platform to showcase the
best, most talented Filipinos from
around the world. (PR)
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011 7

PCCT Stages 2011 Trade Show, June 25, 2011 GTA Featineans slate Spring affair
The 9th annual Philippine area would have a good grasp of C, 255 Front Street W, in Toronto. The Featineans Association of Oliver Rey with assistance from
Chamber of Commerce-Toronto the products and services that the The PCCT Trade Show Chair Toronto (TFAT) celebrates its several officers, directors and
(PCCT) Trade Show promises Filipino Canadian business sector said this 9th annual PCCT Trade foundation anniversary, Saturday, members, namely : Rolly and
more time on stage and the carries and offers, and from which Show is “first and foremost about April 9,at the Garnet Williams Beth Balangue, Cesar Banda,
microphone for its business they could engage in cross sales Filipino-owned businesses in Community Centre in the City of Ron and Florence Carpio, Ben
members and exhibitors, and with and marketing. Toronto whose contribution to the Vaughan with enthusiastic dancing Dioleta, Dr. Fe Q. Flora, Tom
the largest participation for Nebres said that the PCCT Trade dynamic economic growth in the aficionados and rookies alike in Flores, Moises & Virgie Ga,
Filipino-owned businesses. Show will be held Saturday, June greater Toronto area could not be attendance. Greg and Fanny Gravador,
This was jointly announced by 25, 2011 (instead of July 9 as continually ignored, especially TFAT -- a 22-year old FEATI Norma and Romy Guanzon,
Oswald Tugadi, PCCT President, announced in some media outlets considering that our community is University alumni-based socio- Jorge Isidro, Arthur Lasam,
and Rafael Nebres, Chair of the 9th earlier) in partnership with the the 3rd largest across Canada after professional organization in Oscar and Lana Lei, Rudy Olay,
Annual Trade Show, who said the Philippine Canadian Charitable the South Asians and the Chinese Ontario with 55 currently active Rudy and Zeny Ortiz, Bert
event has been planned to be very Foundation (PCCF). The event, communities.” members, will sponsor the annual Pabustan, Res Paje, Max
beneficial to PCCT business dubbed as the “Pinoy Fiesta & PCCT president Tugadi said that event to raise funds for its 11- year Recaido, Nenita Recaido,
members and exhibitors from Trade Show sa Toronto”, will run running the trade show old scholarship project and other Darlene Rey, Jocelyn San Juan,
which visitors from the diverse from 8 am to 11 pm at the Metro independently this year away from community-based projects and Eric and Evelyn Serapio, Luz
communities in the greater Toronto Toronto Convention Centre, Hall the Mabuhay Festival will even be targetted beneficiaries. and John Sider, Florie Silang,
beneficial to members and Among TFAT’s outreach Violy Vilan and new members
exhibitors. He said, “This is initiatives are financial donations Virginia Bagarra,Raul Danque
because in the past, while PCCT to some GTA religious groups and and Renato Soria.
contributed to half of the income homeland calamity victims; and Highlight of the program is an
generated from the Mabuhay participation to the annual inspirational address by Oliver
Festival, the PCCT had to almost summerfest of the Philippine Rey. Ballroom and line-dancing
beg for time on the stage and the Colleges and Universities Athletic follows.
microphone for its members and Association (PCUAA), held in Among those expected to
exhibitors from the organizers of cooperation with the Bicol Canada grace the affair are some
the Mabuhay Festival.” Tugadi Community Association and other presidents, officers and
was the chair of the PCCT Trade FilCan community organizations. members of PCUAA and other
Show during the last six years The yearly spring affair is to be Filipino Canadian community
prior to his ascent to the coordinated by TFAT president leaders. (Jennifer S. McLean/tsj)
presidency.
Officers of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce-Toronto (PCCT)
and the Philippine Canadian Charitable Foundation (PCCF) seal their
On December 27, 2010, the entertainment component of this the PCCT and the PCCF on this
agreement aimed at bringing before the Filipino Canadian and the PIDC — organizers of the year’s PCCT Trade Show, in event. She promises the biggest
diverse communities of greater Toronto the “Pinoy Fiesta & Trade Mabuhay Festival, informed cooperation with GMA Pinoy TV trade show and entertainment ever
Show sa Toronto” at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, June25, PCCT in an email message, it which will bring its stars and to hit the greater Toronto area in
2011. Signng the agreement are (L-R), PCCT President Oswald Tugadi wanted to run its own trade show entertainment celebrities from the recent years.
and 2011 PCCT Trade Show Chair Rafael Nebres; PCCF President for this year’s festival. Philippines. For trade show vendors or
Jimmy Marasigan and PCCF Director Romy Rafael. Rosemer Jimmy Marasigan, president of Rosemer Enverga, GMA Pinoy exhibitors, please contact: Rafael
Enverga, GMA Pinoy TV Development and Marketing Consultant for the Philippine Canadian Charitable TV Development and Marketing Nebres at (416) 618-1362, or
Canada witnesses the simple ceremony. (Courtesy: Raymond
Foundation (PCCF) said his Consultant for Canada, said that Oswald Tugadi, (416) 850-
Santos)
organization will provide the >>> she is very excited to work with 4966.(PR)
8 Manila Media Monitor, February 2011
We, who practice community
newspapering, oftenly get
confused in what we are doing, or
supposed to be doing.
Those of us who pride ourselves
with, first and foremost, journalists
for many years, are not excluded
from this confusion.
One item at issue is our
objectivity.
For example, in writing a news
story, we are supposed to deliver
a balance report, outlining both
sides of the story. Most often than
not though, this does not happen
and only present the subjective
part of the story – which is how
we, newswriters/reporters, look at
a situation, leaving the other party
fend for themselves where to look
for help in correcting the
impression created by the
published subjective story. In other
words, most often than not, when
we (friends/colleagues, I wrote
“we”) newswriters/reporters write
a “news” story, we often confused
it as writing our columns – which
by its very nature, are subjective,
being a mirror of our own opinions
and views.
But, can we really be objective
in news reporting?
In a new study recently which
asked, “is objectivity possible in
journalism?” posted by Dana
Lacey in “The Canadian
Journalism Project”, some
respondents, as reported by Lacey,
commented as follows:
Respondent Katie Lohrenz
wrote:
“I find writing by people who
We have always wanted to do
more for our community. We have
always wanted to share our talents
to those in need; the more we
wanted to do more, the more God
will bless us with the tools and
guidance that we need. Our
prayers are always answered in
one form, or another.
During the course of years of our
volunteerism, people have been
telling us to run for office: you
should be that and you should be
this.
Being in an election is basically
out of bounds for me. First of all,
I did not not think that I would be
ready; we were happy where we
stood; we did not have the
resources, But, people from all
parties kept on calling.
It was a tough decision for me
to run for a public office. We have
never done something like it
before.
Last local elections ... in the
evening before the filing deadline,
I consulted our pastor, and he told
me: “Jun, I strongly encourage
you … you know the community
well, you will be a good Trustee
… I will pray for you!” The words
of guidance resonated with me the
whole night, hence our decision to
run for an elected office.
It was on the last day on the last
hour (on my lunch break) of the
deadline for accepting the
nominations did I put forward my
name to be on the ballot for
election 2010, basically to launch
a campaign that had to be done in
less than four weeks — an almost
impossible feat by any election
On the matter of objectivity
in news reporting
disclose and discuss their biases/
backgrounds dramatically more
compelling than sterile I-refuse-to-
take-sides-so-decide-for-yourself
writing. I think it’s possible to
explain and analyze both sides of
a story and fulfill a journalistic
purpose without sitting on the
fence.”
Survey respondent Robert
McClure wrote:
“No journalist is truly objective,
if that term is meant to mean
someone who has no opinions
about the subjects he or she covers.
Subjectivity starts right from the
point at which a journalist chooses
a subject to cover and goes right
on through to who is interviewed,
what quotations are selected, how
the headline is written, and on and
on. But what makes journalism
different from other practices with
which it is sometimes confused,
such as PR or politics, is that
journalists are in the business of
‘independent’ verification of fact.”
The post made by Lacey from a
report written by Sammer Bhuchar
of “Spot.Us” stated that,
“Increasingly, the idea of
traditional objectivity is being
challenged by this new, proactive
standard,
considering
that the
electoral
area is half
o f
Scarborough.
My wife
and I were
not able to Our Journey
sleep that
night.
People close to me has all this
to say at first when I whispered to
them the plan: “What! You are
running for election? You should
have announced it much sooner”;
“You should have planned this
well ahead”; “Are you ready for
this?”; “ Do you know that
somebody is already campaigning
since January (2010)?”
There was definitely an urgency
to act … a great appreciation to a
few of my friends, who sensed that
something had to be done fast;
really fast. As soon as Ace Alvarez
found out about my intention, he
immediately talked to the
organizer of an event where we
happened to meet, hence, my first
campaign speech. From then on
Ace became my de-facto over-all
campaign manager (I do not even
know if he knew this). There was
basically no time to go to any
formality … the campaign had to
move forward and fast.
We placed the Enverga Express
(my Family) to action; our
daughters completed the website,
designed the flyers, called their
friends, announced my candidacy
for the office I run for in their
fundamentally not credible
premise. Journalism is created by
people, and people are not
objective. As media has become
multidirectional, it’s become
ridiculous to try to ignore that
reality. News organizations that
choose a veneer of objectivity over
the practice of transparency
undermine their own credibility.
age of media consumers. To those The sad thing is, many news orgs
who challenge the ideal, it is an cling to their veneer of objectivity
outdated standard that has crippled because they think it builds
journalists from digging deep into credibility. They’re eating their
stories.” own dog food.”
Bhuchar wrote: “The Internet With the respondents on the
has bypassed the once highly study cited above, it seems that the
regarded norms of gatekeepers at premises I cited earlier were old
a news desk, and now it seems to school approach to news reporting
be challenging the long held model and delivery. With the advent of
of objectivity in journalism.” the internet – the so-called “new
According to Bhuchar, the media”, there seems to be a new
survey polled 500 Spot.Us users. school of thought on news
Only 13.5% of respondents reportage.
identified objectivity as being what A free thinker, my good friend,
journalism is all about; 44.6% said Bill Andersen, commented that
objectivity was “difficult but “even if journalists can never be
possible. It separates the wheat completely objective, I hope that
from the chaff”; 27.6% chose the the good ones will at least make
answer “transparency is the new an effort to show more than one
objectivity.” point of view. If they don’t, how
Bhuchar also cited survey are they different from a
respondent Amy Gahran as having propaganda machine?
written that “Basically, “Propaganda is often full of
‘objectivity’ in journalism began passion and conviction and can be
post WWII as a strategy to make more exciting and entertaining to
news content more palatable to a read than more even-handed
broader advertiser base. That reports, but I don’t look to the
worked — and it helped enable news for entertainment. I
newspaper consolidation in many appreciate reminders that there are
cities. But the strategy took on a more points of view than the one I
life of its own — and while it favour, even if the reporter cannot
yielded some benefits, it’s a On the matter >>> page 22
was the number of people who prayed for our
campaign. On October 25, the day of the
election, we were satisfied by what we have
done for the campaign and we left it to God’s
will.
The common complaint were the fact that
some voters were not being given the Catholic
Ballot; some people were not listed as Catholic
rate payers (To all the Catholic supporters:
whether you have kids or not in the Catholic
schools, please ensure next time that you are
listed as a Catholic supporter and you vote as
social network sites. Catholics) … The poll closed, all
My wife, Rosemer worked, the scrutineers arrived like
drawing from her marketing clockwork in the campaign office
expertise. My project management — our home! They were all
knowledge was placed into ecstatic because we were leading
expedite mode. We blasted the in all the polls that they had been
news in emails too. to. They were a bit concerned
There was tremendous wave of though because the lead was quite
support from all over; we were small. The election was really
overwhelmed when our new and close.
old friends came forward to help Around 10 PM that election
in every way, some of them saying, night, almost all the other
“we have been waiting for this, it candidates have declared victory.
is about time!” As far as I know, We were ahead by three points
the flood of calls and emails and were waiting for three more
suddenly swept Toronto …” Our polls to complete manual
Kababayan from ages 5 to 85 was counting, because for some
in the malls, restaurants, offices, reason, the computer failed to
church grounds and the streets count.
campaigning. By 10:30 PM, one poll was
Most of the local news media announced, after which, we were
was very supportive; they have 26 votes behind. We stopped our
volunteered to place an ad on my celebration and prayed. After a
behalf and published my press few minutes, the next poll came.
releases, gratis! My special The leading candidate was only
appreciation to Manila Media ahead by six votes.
Monitor … Ace and Gie for their While waiting for the last poll
full support and endorsement, I am to be announced, the small
blessed to have good friends in the fetecontinued because we knew
media. that anything could still happen.
The greatest edge I have Although anxious, it was not until
compared to the other candidates Our Journey >>> page 34
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011
Human eyes
have that
embedded
curiosity that
draws them to
w h a t e v e r
visually jumps
out of their line
of vision. They zero-
in on the subject,
focus on it and shift
our train of thought to
the re-composed
perspective that now
becomes the focal
point.
Whether you like it
or not, whatever it is
in you that grabs the
eye, would most
certainly pull you into
the spotlight. You
could be the best, the worst
or perhaps just simply
different from the rest, the
attention would be on you.
There is no escape.
Here is a story of a
fourteen-year old ambitious
girl who ran for Junior
Representative for her high
school Student Council.
She was up against the other
candidates who were not
only popular, but also had
influential friends
campaigning for them.
Being unknown and the
underdog in gaining votes,
one would think that the
odds of getting elected
would be a futile attempt.
But although the chance of
A Lady Octogenarian
Recalls Heydays
She once lived a glittery
life in the corridors of
diplomacy as a diplomat’s
wife. Now, at 84, Alodeia
Baliao (“Ludi to her friends)
lives a withdrawn and sedate
life in a sparsely-furnished
apartment home in Union
City, California.
Alodeia recalls the
heydays during the Marcos
presidency when her late
husband Ruperto was in the
diplomatic service all of 18
years. She hobnobbed and
robbed laces with diplomats
and their spouses from
around the world during
receptions and social
gatherings, cut ribbons and
graced Filipino affairs,
prepared tea parties for
Philippine officialdom and
business leaders visiting
San Francisco.
Ludi was born in Sison,
Pangasinan and raised in
Baguio City when her
father, a master sergeant in
the US Army, was stationed
at Camp John Hay. She took
up education at the
University of Sto. Tomas
but didn’t finish it to care for
Dare to Stand Out
winning was stumpy, she
was not discouraged. Quite
persistent and unrelenting,
she dared to standout.
With her clever and well
calculated strategy, she
turned the table around to
her advantage. She
capitalized on the
uniqueness of her name that
had some students laughing
at it because it was unheard
of and hard to pronounce.
She used it in the catchy
slogans and taglines of her
campaign. Furthermore, she
had one edge that her
competition did not have —
a supportive father who
strongly believed in her. Her
father fuelled her confidence.
an ailing mother. It was at
UST where she met her
husband.
Ruperto Baliao, who
came from a political clan in
Iloilo, took up law also at
UST. He joined the
diplomatic service in 1955.
His first diplomatic posting
was in Hong Kong where he
stayed for four years, thence
to Japan for another four
years. In between
diplomatic breaks he would
come home to write
presidential speeches
especially during the time of
Carlos P. Garcia. Ludi
followed him to San
Francisco when Marcos
appointed him consul
general in 1966.
As the Consul General’s
wife she was the escort of
choice of Imelda Marcos
when she and her husband
visited the Bay Area. Ludi
herself noted the truism of
Imelda’s propensity of
buying expensive brand
items, like sunglasses,
watches and scarves which
she lavished to friends and
supporters. But surprisingly,
Together, they
worked on her
powerful campaign
posters and banners
with eye-grabbing
graphics and well-
coordinated colors.
Her highly effec-
signs drew so much
attention. Curiosity
infected the entire
school. Everybody was
asking, “Who is this
girl?”
Halfway to the
election date, students
in hallways, parking
lots, gymnasium and
the cafeteria, were
cheering for her,
pronouncing her name
the proper way. It was
a sure thing, she was
gaining grounds. She was
on her way to victory.
She won the position,
paving the way to more
achievements. In her senior
year, she stood before her
fellow graduates with her
emotionally inspiring
valedictory speech. The
audience was electrified
and acknowledged her with
thundering applause and a
standing ovation. She could
be likened to a penny
surrounded with silver
quarters. She stood out
among the crowd. And just
like a penny that appears
worthless on its own, is
Dare >>> page 34
these did not include shoes
to add to her reported
collection of more than 2000
pairs, after trying on several
pairs, opining to the
enthralled but soon
distraught saleslady of I.
Magnin, a fashionable
boutique in San Francisco
that Marikina shoes in the
Philippines are more stylish
and elegant than those
branded “Made in Italy.”
Ludi recalled that
Imelda’s personality
radiated a brilliant gem. She
was “tantalizingly beautiful
and magnetizing” Ludi said.
Well, Imelda wasn’t chosen
“Miss Manila” for no
reason. But she catapulted
to the relentless wooing of
then rookie congressman
Ferdinand Marcos after a
weekly courtship.
Marcos was a popular
head of state during his first
term. But in 1973 Marcos
became increasingly more
autocratic and corrupt that
caused civil unrest. Then he
declared martial law in Sept.
21, 1972. He appointed his
wife to several high-ranking
government posts, including
governor of Metro Manila.
Thus started the conjugal
dictatorship to last for 18
years. Ferdinand and
Imelda ruled carte blanche.
They were dubbed “The
Beauty and the Beast.”
Imelda became a prima-
donna non-pareil with a
Too often we rush through
life without taking the time
to really understand what is
going on around us. Like a
juggler on the railroad tracks
focused on his juggling, we
are sometimes so immersed
in the urgent that we miss
the important. The balls are
urgent, demanding your
constant attention, but the
train, … well the train, is a
life altering and important
event. Pay attention to the
train!
It is the little things which,
at the time, seem urgent that
grab us. They shout and
scream and demand our
attention. They are little
chicks in the nest, mouths
always open, wanting to be
fed. And what a racket they
make. It is no wonder we do
everything we can to quiet
them down.
But it takes a strong will
to look past all the noise and
really focus on what is
important. I must admit I am
not immune to this trap
either.
And what is important?
Well, that’s going to be
different for each of us. But
the important — that which
needs to be done, that which
must be attended, for each
of us there is a common
thread. It is a long-term
investment in our future.
Deciding what is
important and what is urgent
coterie of Malacanan Blue
Ladies in-tow wherever she
went.
Ruperto Baliao, who was
then the Consul General in
Los Angeles, was treading
on thin line because he
didn’t want to represent and
be identified with a despotic
ruler. He thought that if he
would cut ties with Marcos,
resign his high-profile
diplomatic post he would
make a statement and
galvanize the opposition in
the home country which was
then a gathering storm. The
glory days turned troubling
for Alodeia.
In frustration Ruperto did
resign and his resignation
generated thunder and
firestorm in the diplomatic
circuit. He defected and
sought asylum in the United
States. Of course his action
didn’t bide well with the
Marcoses. It caused nary a
ripple but harassment by
government forces to the
Baliao siblings still living in
the Philippines. This had
caused them mental and
emotional anguish and
stresses.
Ruperto’s resignation and
defection was unbeknownst
to his family who were
living in San Francisco.
Unable to land a job in
asylum he became bitter and
lived a reclusive life. Is
health rapidly deteriorated?
He developed maladies,
9
Focus on the Important vs. the Urgent
(Don’t wait for the train to run you over)
(but not important) is not clear head you begin to
always easy. And often understand what essential
times, the important is also strategies and tactics you
urgent. It is a life skill we will need to put in place
have to learn and master. I to deal with the future.
have learned that the first And you gain the strength
step to mastering this skill is to make the necessary
to take a deep breath, step decisions.
back and do an honest I cannott tell you
evaluation of your life. what’s important for you.
Resist the temptation to fix No one can. I cannot even
everything now. Resist the tell you how to figure out
noise of the urgent. Ask what is important instead
yourself, “what if I don’t fix o f s i m p l y u rg e n t ( a n d
this now”. What are the real loud loud loud). Only you
consequences. Be honest. can do that. What I can
You might find that many tell you is what I have
of the burdens you carry learned for myself: Too
during the day need not be often, we focus on the
burdens at all. You might urgent as a way to put off
find your load getting lighter having to confront the
and your head clearing. You really important things. It
might discover that you is a way of keeping busy.
have been wasting a lot of It is a way of not having
time on things that are not to make tough decisions.
really all that important (just Don’t wait for the train
loud loud loud: maybe I to run you over. Put down
need ear muffs to mute the the balls and focus on the
noise). important event. It will
As you strip away all the not go away simply
loud noisy demands, the because you ignore it!
really important things (info@thenannyexpert.com)
begin to emerge. With a
suffered a stroke that Ludi wheeled her
paralyzed half his body and paralyzed husband to meet
became wheel-chair bound. Corazon Aquino who took
The “People Power” over the presidency during
uprising in 1986 brought an official visit to San
Marcos down. Then Francisco.
President Nixon ordered When Ruperto died in
him to “cut clean.” The 1986 shortly after the fall of
opposition forces, a Mardos, Ludi moved to
coalesced band of priests, Union City. She has been
nuns, and ordinary citizens there for 10 years living in
led by then Secretary of introspection in a one-bed
Defense Juan Ponce Enrile room apartment at
and PC chief Fidel Ramos, Rosewood Terrace
who both defected from reminiscing those glory days
Marcos (“Are you with of yore. She writes poems
me?”) stalked tanks with published in the Terrace
candles, rosaries, flowers newsletter, plays solitaire
and min-statues of the and other card games with
Virgin Mary. Amazingly friends many perhaps may
there were no orders to roll not know that she was once
them down which would in the diplomatic limelight
have resulted to bloodshed. and enjoyed a glittered life.
That proved the power of As Ludi recalled those
prayers. halcyon days, she gingerly
As the seething mob shifted position on her
besieged Malacanan Marcos rocking chair, turned
took the heat and was flown poignant and looked into the
to Clark Field In Pampanga, sunset. It was a setting that
thence to Honolulu in jogged a memory.
Hawaii (he thought it was Ludi has two adult
Paoay in Ilocos Norte, his children, Victor, a bachelor
birthplace), where he died and Bella Teresa, married
in exile on Sept. 28, 1989. with no children.
ANNOUNCEMENT
“The Tropical Deli”
IS MOVING TO ANOTHER LOCATION,
hence the store at
# 8 Glen Watford Drive, Unit G55
Scarborough, ON will be closed Starting March 1st.
THE NEW LOCATION
WILL BE ANNOUNCED SOON.
 10
Anti-Americanism at its Peak
By J.L. Granatstein
Frank Underhill was a -- he set out to make friends
noted Canadian historian a with President Ronald
half century ago, even if he Reagan and to declare that
is now almost forgotten. But Canada “was open for
he wrote one sentence that business” again. And so it
still rings true: Canadians, was. Under Mulroney,
he said, were the first anti- Canada and the United States
Americans, the ideal anti- struck a Free Trade
Americans, the anti- Agreement in 1988, a
Americans as they exist in massive trade and economic
the mind of God. In no deal that was the first of its
period of Canadian history kind since the 1850s. And
was that description so whenever Mulroney could
exactly right as in the years do so, he worked closely
after 1968. with U.S. leaders on foreign
Pierre Trudeau became and defence policy. Canada
prime minister that year. He was a smaller power, but
was a new kind of leader, an Mulroney demonstrated that
intellectual who dressed a prime minister could get
well and dated beautiful substantial influence by
women. But unlike most playing his hand with skill.
Canadian leaders he did not Some, for example, give
understand the United Mulroney much credit for
States, and he believed that German reunification after
Canada should be as distant the fall of the Berlin Wall.
from the U.S. as from the But many Canadians hated
Soviet Union. He had to deal that Mulroney seemed to be
with President Richard in bed with the Americans,
Nixon, no easy task, and and he was easily the most
Nixon was very unpopular unpopular Canadian leader
in Canada. Trudeau had to in history when he left office
handle rising Canadian in 1993. His successor, after
nationalism, and his the election that year, was
government put in place the Jean Chrétien, a Liberal who
Foreign Investment Review led a very anti-American
Agency to control party. Chrétien clearly
Americans buying out understood that Canada had
Canadian companies. And to get on with the U.S. — the
although Trudeau was in Canadian economy was too
office when Moscow was in closely linked for it to be
an aggressive phase, he cut otherwise — but with the
the Canadian Forces’ Cold War over, the defence
contribution to European relationship with the U.S.
defence in half and soon seemed less important. Also,
scrapped Canada’s nuclear he had President Bill Clinton
weapons. None of this to deal with, and Clinton was
pleased the U.S. able, intelligent, and
Trudeau left office in personable, much easier to
1984, and Progressive get on with than presidents
Conservative Brian like Nixon and Reagan. So
Mulroney took power. Chrétien talked publicly
Mulroney was no Trudeau about keeping his distance
The Officers and Board Members of the Philippine Canadian Charitable Foundation (PCCF) and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce-Toronto gather together for a souvenir
photo after the signing of an Agreement of Partnership in the staging of the “Pinoy Fiesta & Trade Show sa Toronto”, to be held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Hall
C, Saturday, June 25 this year.(Courtesy: Jose Baking/ Little Manila Confidential)
from the U.S., but played
golf with Clinton, with
whom he was on friendly
terms, whenever he could.
However, his
government annoyed
Washington frequently.
One issue was an
international treaty to ban
land mines, pushed by
foreign minister Lloyd
Axworthy. Another was the
plan for an International
Criminal Court to try war
criminals. Both were good
ideas but for various
reasons the United States
refused to support them;
Axworthy’s openly anti-
American sentiments did
not make it any easier to get
U.S. support.
Then when George W.
Bush became president in
January 2001, relations
became even more difficult
between Ottawa and
Washington. Canada
opened its airports to
airplanes caught in mid-
flight by the al-Qaida
attacks on the United
States, but Chrétien seemed
cool in expressing
Canadian sympathy for the
U.S. losses. Chrétien did
provide an infantry
battalion to support the
American effort in
Afghanistan in 2002, but
his government flatly
refused to participate in the
Iraq War in 2003, instead
sending troops back to
Kabul, the Afghan capital.
The Americans had not
received United Nations
approval for the war against
Saddam Hussein’s regime,
he said. That was true, but
a very anti-war and anti-
American Quebec was in
the midst of an election and
that may have helped shape
Ottawa’s response. So too
did the very strong anti-
Bush sentiment all across
the nation. Anti-
Americanism was at its
peak, and the government
did nothing to check it.
The point is that a wise
Canada must always consider
American concerns when it
acts. With 80 percent of its
trade with the U.S., delays at
the American border can hurt
the economy. With its defence
depending on American
military support, Canada
needs to be aware of how the
U.S. sees global threats.
Balance is everything.
Canadians want to be
independent, and they are
not Americans, not now, not
ever. But they cannot be so
anti-American that their
words and actions hurt them.
Pierre Trudeau and Jean
Chrétien perhaps pushed the
limits of acceptable anti-
Americanism, just as Brian
Mulroney sometimes
seemed to go too far in the
other direction. Again,
balance is everything, and
the most successful
Canadian leaders
understand always that
Canada must be on good
terms with the United States.
But not too good. (The
Canadian Experience is a
history series designed to tell
the story of our country to all
Canadians. Sponsored by
Multimedia Nova
Corporation and Diversity
Media Services/Lingua Ads
partners, the series features
articles by our country’s
foremost historians on a wide
range of topics. Past articles
and author bios are available
at http://
www.cdnexperience.ca. The
Canadian Experience is
copyright © 2010-2011
Multimedia Nova
Corporation.)
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011
A migrant-sending country’s search
for a long-term Filipino vision
By Jeremaiah M. Opiniano
Institute for Migration
and Development Issues (IMDI)
What does the Philippines and Development was
has to do with a southern created to monitor the
Caribbean country named operational plan.
Trinidad and Tobago?
This former Spanish and Vision 2020, says an
British colony of 1.338 informative video
million people not only (www.vision2020.info.tt/
hosts an estimated 1,200 v i d e o /
Filipinos (including 1,000 vision2020_intro.htm), is
overseas workers), but did a anchored on five pillars:
bold attempt at national enabling competitive
development that a business, developing
Southeast Asian archipelago innovative people, nurturing
can learn from. a caring society, investing in
At the onset of its own oil sound infrastructure and the
boom come the new environment, and promoting
millennium, and during the effective government.
time of the country’s former This republic has a two-
head of government, Prime party political system and a
Minister Patrick Manning, bicameral parliamentary
Trinidad and Tobago’s system. Head of state is a
Ministry of Planning and President, currently George
Development started in Maxwell Richards; a Prime
2002 the groundwork to Minister, currently Kamla
formulate a strategic plan Persad-Bissessar, heads the
called Vision 2020. By the government.
year 2020, government Of course, political
officials hope Trinidad and dynamics affected the
Tobago “will be a united, country. Former Prime
resilient, productive, Minister Manning (of the
innovative and prosperous People’s National
nation with a disciplined, Movement or PNM party)
caring, fun-loving society, dissolved parliament in
comprising health, happy April 2010 and called for
and well-educated people national elections, which
and built on the enduring Bissessar ’s party, the
attributes of self-reliance, People’s Partnership, won
respect, equity, and most seats.
integrity”. Still, the upper-income
The work of the planning Caribbean country’s Vision
committee to formulate 2020 goes on.
Vision 2020 ended in 2005, While Vision 2020
and the country’s parliament outlined specific strategies,
approved Vision 2020’s the migration phenomenon
draft national strategic plan is integrated in it,
in 2006. This national considering that there are
strategic plan then some 300,000-plus overseas
formulated its first Trinidadians and there are
operational plan that about 40,000 foreigners
covered the years 2007 to working and residing in
2010. Even a unit within T&T.
T&T’s Ministry of Planning Migrant >>> page 34
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011
My facebook friends are just
… ahh … ahh .. DOING GREAT
After about a year of on the site
resistance to facebook, I
finally gave in to requests of in her wall that “Thousands
my nephews, nieces and flee as Philippine volcano
plainly old friends who are erupts”. One of her
scatttered all over world to facebook friends pressed the
join the networking site. “Like” button.
What follows are the I didn’t know though
comments and actions on what her friend liked about
Facebook that my the feed: Was it for the
friends,simply … ahh … thousands who had to flee
ahh .. DID GREAT! their homes; or the
*** excitement over the eruption
Oh yes, for you, readers, of the volcano?
who are facebook lovers, I ***
admit that the site has far At least three, or four
so many advantages. In times, I saw facebook
the words of my friends pressing the
compadre, Jun Tobias (not “Like” button after our
to be confused with the common friends on the site
recently-elected Catholic announced that a close
School Board Trustee for family member was
Ward 8 in Scarborough, hospitalized, or worse,
Tobias ‘Jun’ Enverga): went to the life hereinafter.
“Facebook is nice in that I Oh yes, I’m not kiddin’
was able to trace back old you, kiddos!
friends and dear ***
classmates of yesteryears, From one of the brilliant
pero makunsumo pala sa musical minds in the
oras.” community, Rodney
*** Ronquillo. He posted,
My wife, Gie, posted recently addressed to his very dear,
Chyrell Samson: “Happy
Valentines Day Sweetheart!
I’ll make a Valentines dinner
tonight for both of us :)”
I commented: “Rodney ...
I hope the Valentines dinner
you make for you and
Chyrell to share and feast on
tonight does not have the
formula as follows:
“Drive To Sheppard
Avenue East + Park the car
hurriedly + run to the
Chinese Fast Food Outlet =
Take Out”
I saw Rodney’s response
the following day. It turned
out that the dinner he was to
cook turned out the way I
had imagined.
***
Another post from Rodney:
“Piano, pen and paper, a
microphone and a million
ideas going thorugh the
brain at the moment.”
I commented: “And you
survived them all, Rodney!”
***
On February 19, the fede-
ral government issued a
press release, saying,
Canada’s gov’t launches
multi-million dollar
campaign vs. crooked
immigration consultants.
I had participated in at
least three of the projects
in the campaign.
After Gie read the
release in the email notice,
she simply put her hand on
my pocket, probably
looking for my share of the
“multi-million”.
***
I got an invitation for two
big and important midweek
functions recently, where
my presence was “a must”
by reason of involvement
in those organizations. The
two events were to be held
the same evening and time
at two separate places.
I thought, “Gosh, I only
have one body. No wonder
I’m inefficient
in any of my
functions with
an organization!
***
As everybody
might have
known by now,
t h a t
community
civic worker by
the name of
R o s e m e r
Enverga was
appointed as
GMA Pinoy TV
11
Development and as everybody roared into
Marketing Consultant for laughter.
Canada. ***
Rosemer really loves her Referring to one elected
function to the point that Catholic school board
given an opportunity to trustee, Balita Managing
speak at any function, she Editor Tess Cusipag cap-
takes every opportunity to tioned one photo in her
promote her product (of publication’s November 15-
course!). 30, 2010 issue as follows: “...
It’s not true, however one of the invited guests
that in the photo below, showed up as the forum was
former Philippine winding down, to the cha-
President Fidel Ramos, in grin of the press people.
one visit to Toronto, was Media colleagues said as a
tellingthe dedicated GMA rookie politician he has a lot
Pinoy TV Canadian to learn. First off is to respect
consultant (left), “Teka, the press who can wield its
Rosemer. Ako ang bida power to either make or
dito, pero lagi na la’ng break you ...”.
‘GMA Pinoy TV’ ang Kaya ako, I align with the
sinasabi mo, e!” press people para ma-
It’s not true also that ”make” naman ako.
Action Honda General (Addressing my wife, Gie,
Manager Rafael Nebres now:) Why do you look at
(right, standing) was me like that? I said, ma-make
saying, “Oo nga, Rosemer,” and not ma-”do”!
***
Related to the
above item,
when former
Toronto Con-
sul General
Minerva Jean
Falcon (now
Charge ‘d
Affaires at the
Philippine
Embassy in
Ottawa) spoke
as guest
speaker at the
Ooops>> P 34
12 Manila Media Monitor, February 2011
Professor launches complaint Canadian Museum of
for delayed immigration processing Immigration opens in Halifax
O T TAWA – A processing his parent’s
professor of law immigration application. HALIFAX, February 7, 2011 – James Moore, Minister of
and medicine at the Prof. Amir Attaran said, The government has Canadian Heritage and Official
University of ?”For a government that inaugurated a Museum of Languages said during the
Ottawa, had filed a talks so much about family Immigration at Pier 21 here. ceremonies, “This museum is
human rights values, the Conservatives Peter MacKay, Minister of for all of us because with one
have the worst record, of National Defence and Member in five Canadians tracing a
complaint recently
of Parliament (Central Nova) relationship back to this site,
against the any government, in
said, “This national institution we know that Pier 21 has
Conservative reuniting immigrants with pays tribute to the women, played a key role in creating the
government their families,” said Attaran. men, and children from all over Canada we cherish today .. By
because of a 60- On February 14, New the world who chose Canada as creating this National museum,
month delay in pro- Democrat Immigration their home. I know I speak for we’ve ensured that the stories
Critic, Olivia Chow all Nova Scotians in saying that of those who travelled far,
(Trinity–Spadina) said that we are proud to be part of toiled long, and sacrificed
ANCOP CANADA LAUNCHES CHILD SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM IN NNEWI, NIGERIA “Immigrants are waiting ensuring this important chapter much for a better life in this
for an initial batch of 15 children. The agreement was signed with Bishop Hilary of Canadian history is great country, will be forever
longer than ever before to be
Okeke of the Diocese of Nnewi. ANCOP said this was the result of the efforts of preserved, promoted, and preserved in the national fabric
joined by their spouses,
Couples for Christ (CFC) fulltime pastoral workers, Aurelio ‘Boy’ and Radel Guinto shared with all Canadians— of Canada’s broad and
Jr. The Child Sponsorship Program of ANCOP Canada started in the Philippines parents or children. now, and for generations to colourful history.”
where over 1,500 children are now currently enrolled in the program. (Malou Clarito) Especially on this come.”
Valentine’s Day, Minister
Jason Kenney must shorten
the wait times and allow
Canadians to show some
love to their parents,” said
Chow.
The NDP said
government documents
obtained through Access to
Information, show that there
are 147,769 people waiting
to have their applications
processed. This means the
government has been
accepting millions of dollars
in fees from Canadians
without processing their Minister MacKay with members of the Board of Trustees
applications.The of the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, and
Conservatives’ new Miss Azam Chadeganipour (Designer of Museum new
immigration targets cut logo)Left to right: Richard (Cy) LeBlanc, Minister
intakes by 90 per cent in MacKay, Miss Azam Chadeganipour, John Oliver, and
Ralph Chiodo. (Courtesy: Prime Minister’s Office)
smaller countries.(NDP-PR)
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011 13

U.S. proposed new border tax a cash grab: Harper
OTTAWA — Prime
Minister Stephen Harper
said he does not think much
of a new border tax that is
being proposed by the
United States, calling it a
cash grab designed to help
a budget crisis.
The U.S. government
wants to slap a $5.50
inspection fee on Canadians
who travel into the country
by air or by sea. Canadians
crossing into the U.S. by
land would not have to pay
the fee.
“I think it’s clear the U.S.
government is casting
around for ways to raise
revenue,” Harper said.
“We want to ensure that
trade and travel between our
countries is easier, and we
don’t need additional taxes
on that kind of economic
activity,” he added.
Foreign Affairs Minister
Lawrence Cannon said the
traveller’s fee was “just a draft
idea.”
He noted that the measure
was in the recently unveiled
2012 U.S. budget. The 2011
budget has not yet passed by
Congress.
Currently, visitors from
Canada, Mexico and a number
of Caribbean countries are
exempt from “passenger
inspection fees.”
The new U.S. budget
includes a proposal to lift
those exemptions.
The U.S. Department of
Homeland Security
estimated an extra $110
million a year. from the fees.
Canada and the U.S. are
in talks to put up a North
American security
perimeter. The proposed fee
could become a sticking
Ontario’s Summer
Jobs Program
point in the negotiations. to compete with low-cost an additional fee would ... connects students to jobs
Several aviation industry operations at border further drive Canadian in the private sector or
groups also came out against airports...,” said National travellers to take to their cars government and offers
the proposed fee. Airlines Council of Canada and fly out of U.S. border support to help young
“An additional tax on air president George Petsikas. airports,” said Canadian entrepreneurs launch their
travellers will decrease the “We share the concern of Airports Council chairman own summer business.
ability of Canadian airlines our tourism partners that Bill Restall. Students may:
- Search for a job through
Employment Ontario
agencies;
-Find job listings;
-Get help to improve their
marketing skills and resume
writing;
-Learn how to start their
own Summer Company;
-Apply for summer jobs
with the Ontario
government;
Employers may hire
students and provide hands-
The University of the Philippines Alumni Association (UPAA) TORONTO gather for on training for tomorrow’s
its regular monthly KAPIHAN on February 19, 2011in Mississauga to honor its outgoing workforce through a $2-
Council and to publicize the forthcoming annual general meeting and elections on
per-hour hiring incentive.
March 18 at downtown YMCA, 20 Grosvenor St. in Toronto. Please contact the UPAAT
officers for more info, or Rene Reynoso at 416 884 7367. (Mogi Mogado) Vi s i t : w w w. O n t a r i o . c a /
SummerJobs

Message of Philippine
Pres. Benigno S. Aquino III
on the commemoration of
the 25th Anniniversary of
the People Power Revolution

My warmest greetings to all the

Filipinos around the world, as we
commemorate the 25th Anniversary of
the People Power Revolution.
We Filipinos continue to demonstrate
the same ideals of unity and patriotism
that freed us from oppression 25 years
ago. These values embody our
determination to tackle the challenges of
today. Thus, this celebration is not only
a day to remember, but also a day to
affirm our duty to our fellow Filipinos and
to our country. I am grateful for our
countrymen abroad who have been
keenly following the course of our
country’s progress and have remained
proud of our multifaceted heritage, which
defines our identity as one people. Now
that we are in a period of transformation,
let us keep alive the spirit of People
Power and democracy, as we work
together and fulfill our aspiration of a
peaceful and progressive Philippines.
We are moving forward in this era of
daylight and hope, and it is incumbent
upon each of us to take on the
responsibility of realizing our dreams for
our beloved country on the straight and
righteous path to change.

BENIGNO S. AQUINO III (Sgd.)

ADVERTISE

YOUR PRODUCTS & SERVICES

WHERE THEY WILL BE NOTICED

Manila Media Monitor

Tel. 416.285.8583
email: manilamediamonitor@rogers.com
14 Manila Media Monitor, February 2011

Kiwanis Club of Filipino Metro Toronto works to ease RP children’s pain

The Kiwanis Club of Filipino Pastor, 2nd Vice President; President Quintin Palisoc welcomes members and
Metro Toronto has underscored the Teresita Burguillos, Secretary; guests >>>
significance of its work in Joylyn Bachar Aficial, Asst.
partnership with Kiwanis Secretary; Elizabeth Liclican, Photo below: Guest speaker, Mark Brewster, Lt.
International in alleviating the Treasurer; Lt. Gov. Mark Brewer; Gov. Division 9, addresses the club.
sufferings of disadvantaged Advisors are John Hermant,
children in the world, including Past Lt. Governor; and, Betty
those in the Philippines. Wilson, Past Lt. Gov.
In his remarks at the 2nd Charter Members of the Board are Dr.
Night of the Kiwanis Club of Ernie Quinit; Charito Macaraeg;
Filipino Metro Toronto, Sunday, Cipriano Pastor, Johhny
February 13, in North York, Burguillos, Raymond Tano, Felix
Ontario, Club President Quintin Tulagan, Mylyne Ebue, Rose
Palisoc, cited the work of Kiwanis Cruz, and Rodel Baylon. (Ace
International, in cooperation with Alvarez)
his club, among others, on the
project “Sleeping Bags”, where
they distributed sleeping bags and
other necessities in life to the poor
children in the Philippines.
<<< Guests from Division 9
The Kiwanis Club of Filipino
of Kiwanis Club International
Metro Toronto president also cited ...
the work of various local clubs in
96 countries composing Kiwanis
International – and in cooperation Some of the officers and
with UNICEF on their project members, including one of the
aimed at eliminating iodine local club founders, Dr.
deficiency disorders (IDD). He Ernesto Quinit >>>
stressed that IDD is the world’s
leading preventable cause of
mental retardation.
Through this initiative, Palisoc
said, around $80 million dollars
wee invested by Kiwanis
International, thus, saving millions
of children in 80 countries being
born with mental disability.
Palisoc outlined Kiwanis Club
of Filipino Metro Toronto’s
Division 9 (where the club belongs
under Kiwanis International’s
Organization Chart) to raise $1
million. On its third year-
campaign, the fundraising effort is
aimed at assisting against ... and now, the winners in the Raffle Draw as guests eagerly await if Lady Luck
is with them ...
transmission of HIV/AIDS from
mother to child in Guyana,
Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.
As “Kiwanis Club is a global
organization of volunteers
dedicated to changing the world —
one child, one community at a
time,” Palisoc also urged his club’s
officers and members to attract
new members to the organization,
reminding them, “the more
Out-of-town guests from another Kiwanis Club ...
members we recuit, the more
hands we will have for help.”
Special guests at the event were
Kiwanians from Division 9, led by
Lt. Gov. Mark Brewer and its Past
Lt. Gov. Betty Wilson.
Introduced by one of the
organizers of the Kiwanis Club of
Filipino Metro Toronto and
incumbent board member Ernesto
Quinit to the the guests and
members, Brewer agreed with The Officers, Board Members and Advisers of the Kiwanis Club of Filipino of Metro Toronto for a souvenir photo.
Palisoc and suggested ways to
attract new members, among
others, by developing hands-on
projects that will appeal to the
“Volunteer spirit” of the
individual. “Usually,” Brewer said,
“these projects begin small with
only a few people participating.
But if they meet a need in the
community, then the project can
grow and become your signature
event.” Top Photo: Kiwanis officers in
The officers of the Kiwanis Club charge of projects for the youth
of Filipino Metro Toronto are as ...
follows: Quintin Palisoc,
President; Abraham Matabang,
President – Designate; Robert
Cacapit, 1st Vice President; Julius
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011 15
NEW ONTARIO LAWYER: Linelle S. Mogado (center, below) is now
Fourteen Filipino students an Ontario Lawyer. She took her oath during ceremonies at Roy
trapped in New Zealand rubble Thomson Hall, January 28, 2011. In photo with the Filipino Canadian
lawyer are parents, Mogi and Marlene Mogado of Markham, Ontario.
MANILA — Retrieval and recovery continues for Before her admission to the Ontario Bar, Linelle practiced law in
those who were trapped at the Canterbury San Francisco for several years. She is a member of the California
Television (CTV) building, which collapsed after Bar. Linelle works on occupational health and safety policy at the
a 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck Christchurch, Ontario Ministry of Labor.
New Zealand, leaving at least 98 people dead and
over 200 still missing -- incljuding fourteen Filipino
students.
This was confirmed following text messages of
the victims to their relatives.
Sources identified those trapped at the CTV
rubble as Jesse Lloyd Redoble, John Christopher
Chua, Ezra Mae Medalle, Emmabel Anova, Jewel
Francisco, Ivy Jane Cabunillas, Elisa Torres, Mary
Louise Anne Amantillo, Valquin Bensurto, Rhea
Mae Sumalpong, Erica Nora, and Lalaine Agatep.
Two other Filipinos – Rita Estrella and Hayley
Concepcion – are believed trapped in other areas
within the vicinity of the CTV building.
The fourteen students were studying at Kings
Language School housed in the CTV building. It
has 14 staff, 87 regular students, including Chinese,
Koreans, Saudi Arabians, Thais, and Filipinos, plus ALFONSO, CAVITE WILL BE SITE FOR BIGGEST MARIAN IMAGE: Philippine diversifying conglomerate San Miguel
21 visiting students from Japan and two visiting Corp. donates its 33-hectare property in Cavite to the Philippine Foundation of Blessed Mary Mother of the Poor, which
staff. aims to build the biggest Marian image in the world, placed at 110-meter high. The Marian image was promised to the
Principal Brian Taylor, who was held in high followers of healing priest, Fr. Fernando Suarez (left, in photo), a Filipino Catholic priest living in Ottawa. With him is
Cardinal Rosales. Religious workers Jun and Rosemer Enverga will be part of the fundraising efforts in Toronto. (RAE)
regard internationally, was inside the building at
the time of the earthquake.
The school could not immediately give
any idea how many got out of the building
or how many were trapped inside because
all school documents and computer systems
were completely destroyed.
Staff members are now trying to work
through travel insurance companies and
witnesses’ accounts to work out who
escaped.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
Office of the Undersecretary for Migrant
Workers Affairs is checking the
department’s passport database for
information and biometrics about the
missing persons, and also appraising the
families about the incident.
The DFA said the team from the
Philippine embassy in Wellington flew to
Christchurch and coordinating with local
police, rescue teams, and the Red Cross.
An estimated 2,000 Filipinos live in
Christchurch -- the country’s second-largest
urban area.
The DFA-Office of the Undersecretary for
Migrant Workers Affairs has set up a hotline
for families of Filipinos based in
Christchurch. The hotline numbers are 834-
4488 and 834-4596.

Emergency powers for PNoy

urged to address oil crisis
MANILA - Two congressmen said recently
that the House of Representatives should be
prepared to grant President Benigno
“Noynoy” Aquino III emergency powers in
case the situation in oil-producing Middle
East and North Africa worsens.
“If the situation escalates into a crisis
especially since oil has a direct impact on
the day-to-day lives of our people, Congress
should also consider granting the President
with emergency economic powers to
address our oil and energy problem,”
Western Samar Rep. Mel Senen Sarmiento
said in a statement.
Sarmiento said that the energy and finance
departments should already prepare worst-
case-scenario contingency measures in case
the situation in countries such as Bahrain
and Yemen worsens.
He said the contingency plan should
include oil rationing and the temporary
reinstitution of the Oil Price Stabilization
Fund (OPSF).
In 2010, the Philippines sourced 81% of
its crude oil imports from countries in the
Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, the
UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Iran.
16 Manila Media Monitor, February 2011

Language training follows newcomers

into the workplace
It’s a challenge to get a
job, but it’s also difficult to
keep a job after being hired,
especially for newcomers to
Canada. Many newcomers
are not proficient in English
language skills and/or are
unaware of the Canadian
workplace culture and how
to navigate successfully
through it.
The Learning
Enrichment Foundation is
pleased to offer LINC IN
THE WORKPLACE, a pilot
program with a curriculum
tailored to individual
business needs and free to
employer and employee.
The new program,
funded by Citizenship and
Immigration Canada, helps
workers improve their
English language and
workplace culture skills to
become more successful,
safety-conscious and
productive employees.
These classes are held at
a time and location
convenient to the workplace
The program offers:
All levels of English –
from basic literacy to
advanced workplace
communication:
o Vocabulary, grammar,
and pronunciation;
o Topics include: Health
and Safety, Customer
Service Skills, Productivity
Improvement and more!
o Effective writing,
including e-mails, letters,
reports and other business
writing;
o D y n a m i c
communication: over the
phone, in person, in
meetings, and for
presentations;
o Canadian workplace
culture, including
performance evaluations,
effective teamwork, time
management and more.
In a recent article,
Tamara Shephard, of the
Toronto Community News,
quotes a TD Bank
Financial Group report,
entitled Literacy Matters:
Helping Newcomers
Unlock Their Potential.
“Weaker than desirable
proficiency in English and
French amongst newcomers
is leading to higher
unemployment, social
isolation, lower earnings
and is exposing many
immigrants to living in
poverty for some period of
time after arriving in
Canada,” the report states.
The article can be found
online here: http://
www.insidetoronto.com/
community/education/
article/156907—linc-
elevates-employees-at-
toronto-community-news.
The Learning Enrichment
Foundation is offering a
program that gets results and
enables immigrants and
newcomers to feel more in
charge of their performance
in the workplace.
For more info, contact
The Learning Enrichment
Foundation.

“The Tropical Deli”

IS MOVING TO ANOTHER LOCATION, HENCE, THE STORE AT
# 8 Glen Watford Drive, Unit G55
Scarborough, ON will be closed Starting March 1st.
THE NEW LOCATION WILL BE ANNOUNCED SOON.
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011 17
18
War waged on FAT!
Do you ever wonder why
reaching your weight loss goals
seems to be impossible? Do
you get frustrated when every
exercise routine you try never
produces results? Strength-N-
U, the newest workout regimen
in Scarborough, realizes that
many people are dealing with
these issues and have come up
with a solution.
Strength-N-U’s programs con-
nects the mind and body while
igniting the movement from
within that accepts responsibil-
ity and produces a will to
achieve something more.
While pushing the limits and
tipping the boundaries of physi-
cal fitness, Strength-N-U will get
you jumping, climbing, running
and lifting based on your activ-
ity level. With a mix of athletic
equipment, conventional gym
machines, and old playground
favorites, you are sure to be
pushed passed what you are
use to.
Group Body Blitz -- This one
hour group interactive session
has participants completing a
total body blast through a vari-
ety of exercises that target all
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011
fitness components. The
class is offered in beginner,
intermediate and elite levels.
Transformation Package
- This six-week physical train-
ing program includes an as-
sessment, one session with
a personal trainer, three nu-
trition plans over six weeks
and a follow up appointment.
Take advantage of the gran
opening special -- $200.
Team Training Package-
If you are part of an athletic
team, this is a unique oppor-
tunity for you to train with
your teammates at a dis-
counted rate. The experts at
Strength-N-U will create a
customized program that
will benefit your team’s ath-
letic needs and require-
ments. Take advantage of
the grand opening special-
$120. Drop-in on any of the
classes on Tuesday and
Thursday at 6 PM, or Sat-
urday and Sunday at 11:30
AM. Strength-N-U is located
at Unit 10, 80 Milner Av-
enue, Scarborough, ON.
Call 416-886-9462 or visit
www.strength-n-u.com
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011 19
20 Manila Media Monitor, February 2011

Denial putting Canadians at high risk of cutting their lives short: 2011 Annual Report on Canadian’s Health
The Heart and Stroke physically inactive – risk factors “Canadians know what to do to “The fact is that we’re not Stroke Foundation poll, Canadians
Foundation warns that nine out of they can manage and control. live healthier, longer lives. But managing some of the most are aware of the importance of
10 Canadians are jeopardizing the Each year, about 250,000 there’s a huge disconnect between common and deadly addressing their risk factors. But
quality and length of their lives. potential years of life are lost in what we think we are doing to cardiovascular risk factors as well the Foundation poll also showed
The Foundation found that many Canada due to cardiovascular address our risk factors and as we think we are. We Canadians that Canadians have a false sense
Canadians are in denial about their diseases, including heart attacks reality,” says Dr. Beth Abramson, are living with a false sense of of security that is cutting their lives
risk factors for heart disease and other chronic heart-related cardiologist and spokesperson for security that could be fatal.” short. They overestimate their own
suchas being overweight and being conditions. the Heart and Stroke Foundation. According to a new Heart and healthy behaviors.
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011 21
22
On the matter
>>> from page 8
be perfectly objective.
“What a world it would be
if we only did the things we
can do perfectly.” Bill
Andersen is a retired art
director and promotions
man in an advertising
agency in Toronto.
Stephen J. A. Ward, the
James E. Burgess Professor
of Journalism Ethics in the
School of Journalism and
Mass Communications at
the University of
Wisconsin-Madison and an
adjunct professor at the
University of British
Columbia (UB) and
founding chair of the
Canadian Association of
Journalists’ (CAJ) ethics
advisory committee and
former director of UBC’s
Graduate School of
Journalism, said in one
column: “The existence of
immoderate voices has
social value. Silencing loud
voices means silencing
dissent and whatever truth
they have to offer. But it is
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011
Guests at the launchingof the Search for the “Binibining Pilipins Canada” join the promoters of the pageant. From left, Rose Cruz, Front Page
Philippines’ tv program host Gie Alvarez, entertainer Jenifer Camacho -- star of the “Jenifer Forever 3” concert, slated Friday, April 8 at the
Capitol Event Theatre on midtown Yonge St. in Toronto, photographer Ramil, Mayette Morillo of Mayette’s Restaurant, reputed to be the restau-
rant for Filipino entertainers and government diplomats visiting Toronto, Tonnie Furto and Tina Gutierrez -- the promoters of the pageant,
together with Chicky Guerrero (not in photo). [Manila Media Monitor Photo]
an exaggeration to praise follow the facts where they
this type of journalism as lead.”
crucial to democracy, or as Likewise, “opinion must
the best form of opinion be committed to the overall
journalism. public good and be guided
Ward believes on the by what is best for the public
contrary that if immoderate as a whole, not what is
forms of opinion dominate expedient for the reporter’s
public discussion, they can cause or his/her political
do more harm than good to group; that one must not be
democracy. That’s why so attached to his/her “truth”
assumptions behind the that one is ready to use
praise of immoderate almost any means to
journalism need to be persuade others and to
challenged. promote one’s aims.”
Ward opined that what Further, Ward stressed
democracy needs is that opinion should not hide
deliberative opinion inconvenient facts, so as to
journalism, which allows distort the truth to suit one’s
citizens of different views to aims; not misrepresent the
speak respectfully but views of others or demonize
frankly to each other. them.
However, he pointed out So, there you have it on
that “opinion should be top. With the new thinking
rigorously based on a wide on news reporting – and in
range of evidence, solid this age of Wikileaks, be
studies, and perspectives on your own guard private
the data,” an attitutude that c i t i z e n s !
he said allows one “to (ace.alvarez@rogers.com)
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011
Torontonians’ concerns on health and active lives receive boosting
STRENGTH-N-U Programs and Facility
(on fitness and nutrition) opens in Scarborough
The front office staff greet guests and well-wishers ...
Strength-N-U’s Christian Alvarez (left) and Carlo B ...
THEY ARE THERE, TOO! Canadian Pop/R&B ce-
lebrities Shawn Desman and Shiloh (L and R, re-
spectively) specially flew in from London, Ontario --
where they had a performance the evening before,
to grace the grand opening of Strength-N-U. At cen-
ter is Christian Alvarez, proponenent of Strength-N-
U Programs and Facility (on fitness and nutrition).
In photo with Christian Alvarez, Shawn Desman and
Shiloh, on the second row, are (L-R) Christian’s mom
- Front Page Philippines TV program host, Gie
Alvarez; Gie’s personal fitness trainer and Christian’s
longtime friend, “Big D”; Longtime client, Catherine
Lang and longtime friend, Pic.
Writer, sculptor/painter and activist Mogi Mogado
having refeshment with business and civic leader
Rafael Nebres. >>>
Strength-N-U is located at 80 Milner Avenue,
Unit 10 in Scarborough. Call (416) 886-9462
for info, or visit www.strength-n-u.com
23
HEALTH
Some of the members of Strength-N-U Team, (L-
R) Kegan Sant, David Milburn, Steve McGeachy,
Christian Alvarez, Carlo B and James Thomp-
son.
Some of the members of the junior hockey team
undergoing training with Strength-N-U. Currently,
two hockey teams, one soccer team, and teams
Guests listen to the presentation on what Strength- from one football league train with Strength-N-U.
N-U does as a company. Some 200 guests came
between 12 to 4 PM during the open house.
David Milburn briefs Marlene Mogado,
David Milburn briefs Tobias Jun Enverga, Catholic Catholic School Board Trustee for Area 2,
School Board Trustee for Ward 8, Toronto on the Wards 4, 5, 7 & 8 with the York Catholic
facility’s “School-N-Youth” program. District School Board on Strength-N-U’s
special program, “Strength-N-Youth.
<<< Call for an appoint-
ment with Strength N-
U’s Registered Mas-
sage Therapist ...
Deejay pumps up
energy at the facility
during the open house
>>
Filipino business and civic leaders are also present: With
Christian Alvarez (from left) are Isa Tugadi, Philippine
Chamber of Commerce-Toronto president Oswald
Tugadi, Ace and Gie Alvarez, Rosemer Enverga, Bing
Marasigan, Mogi Mogado and Marlene Mogado.
Those guys in the posters are not
models. They are existing clients
of Strength-N-U’s Christian
Alvarez >>>
Strength-N-U’s Certified
Nutritionists >>>>>>>>> All photos either
by Kegan Sant or Manila Media Monitor
24 Manila Media Monitor, February 2011

Dear EarthTalk: In his recent

The value you receive
is the price you paid for
Frequently, family and friends
ask, “Doesn’t it cost more when
I service my car at the
dealership?”
The answer is “no”. The price
is what you pay, but the value is
what you receive.
Three months ago, I asked an
employee to bring her 1995
Honda Civic to a popular “Quick
Lube” station to have her oil
changed. The facility changed her
oil, checked her fluids, and
recommended some additional
service work – and all inside of
25 minutes. The total cost of her
invoice was $51.34. Not bad
you say, but let’s compare this
to what you would receive at the
dealer.
At a dealership, the staff value
your time, but maintain that 25
minutes is an unrealistic duration
to properly evaluate a vehicle.
They endeavour to inspect
each vehicle thoroughly and
apprise you of any
maintenance requirements. A
Torontonians >>>
From page 1
social behaviour and provides a
healthy outlet for emotions.”
“Strength-N-Youth helps
develop and contribute to a young
person’s socialization while
increasing physical well-being.
Strength-N-Youth empowers its
participants through physical
activity.”
Alvarez said the first
“Strength-N-Youth” program
was conducted by his fitness and
nutrition facility last November
26 at the Enniskillin Public
School in Enniskillin, Ontario
for around 200 students. “They
brand-trained technician who
works exclusively on the brand
of the car that you are driving
will complete your service. The
oil change includes an original
oil filter engineered specifically
for that brand to protect your
engine. They use the highest
grade oil in accordance with
your car engine’s specifications.
Most dealers check your
vehicle’s serial number to ensure
that there is no outstanding
recalls. They provide you with
a vehicle check list indicating
areas of concerns and the level
of urgency for repair. Your tires
are measured for tread wear and
adjusted to the proper pressures.
You get all this for 2 to 5 dollars
more than the leading “Quick
Lube”.
Please remember next time
that the price is what you pay but
the value is what you receive.
Another way to “make your
car ownership easy.”
(rafael168@yahoo.com)
loved it; they really had a blast that
day,” he recalled.
In a letter to “Strength-N-U”
later, Bryan Beers, Principal of
Enniskillin Public School, wrote,
“Your program was inclusive and
allowed the students with autism
and special needs to fully
participate in the activities. You
also provided these students with
opportunities to shine in front of
their classmates. This was a real
boost to their self-esteem.”
Strength-N-U is at 80 Milner
Avenue, Unit 10 in Scarbroough.
Call (416) 886-9462 or visit
www.strength-n-u.com. Email at
info@strength-n-u.com. (Manila
Media Monitor)
State of the Union Address,
President Obama called for a
million electric vehicles on
American roads by 2015. How
likely is it that we’ll attain that
goal?
— Jerry Mitlitski, Salem, OR
“We can break our dependence
on oil…and become the first
country to have one million
electric vehicles on the road by
2015,” President Obama said in his
January 2011 State of the Union
address. “The future is ours to
win.”
It’s difficult to say how likely
such an arbitrary goal might be,
but green leaders and others are
optimistic. The waiting list for the
new electric Nissan Leaf, rolling
off the factory floor as we speak,
is some 20,000 Americans long.
The auto industry expects similar
demand for other new electric and
plug-in hybrid cars hitting U.S.
roads this year and next from
General Motors, Ford, Toyota,
Mitsubishi and others.
Of course, the Obama
administration realizes that
attaining such a goal will be
impossible without help from the
federal government. To that end,
consumers and businesses can get
tax credits worth up to $7,500 on
the purchase of each new electric
vehicle (EV). The feds have also
committed $2.4 billion for
research and development into
improving EV batteries, and
another $115 million for the
installation of EV charging
infrastructure in 16 different
metroareas around the country—
not to mention some $300 million
in clean cities grants to dozens of
American communities working to
reduce petroleum use, and the $25
billion being doled out to help U.S.
automakers retool. So much
federal involvement has helped
spur state governments and private
industry to make significant
investments in the EV sector as
well.
But even with all this funding, a
million EVs on the road by 2015
may still be just a pipe dream.
James Sweeney of Stanford
University’s Precourt Energy
Efficiency Center calls the plan
“very aggressive.” He reasons that
it took over a decade for hybrids—
which “did not require any
difference in infrastructure and
had as great a range as
conventional vehicles, neither of
which is likely to be the case with
electric vehicles”—to capture
three percent of the U.S. passenger
car and light truck market. EVs
would have to achieve the same
market share in just four years if
Obama’s goal is to be realized.
“Even with a large subsidy, it
would be very hard to move to
such a large market share that
quickly,” Sweeney concludes.
The Electrification Coalition, an
organization of pro-EV business
leaders from companies including
Nissan, Federal Express, Coda
Automotive and Coulomb
Technologies, would take issue
with that conclusion, however. The
group’s November 2009 study,
dubbed the Electrification
Roadmap, predicted that as many
as 14 million EVs could be on
American roads by 2020 if
lawmakers create “electrification
ecosystems” in several major U.S.
cities simultaneously. If the group
is anywhere near the mark,
reaching Obama’s goal of a million
EVs by 2015 should be a no-
brainer. The group also says that
EVs could account for as many as
75 percent of all miles driven by
light duty vehicles in the U.S. by
2040.
Now if only we could clean up
our supply of electricity too, then
we really might be onto something
good for the planet…
CONTACTS: Precourt Energy
Efficiency Center, http://
peec.stanford.edu; Electrification
C o a l i t i o n ,
www.electrificationcoalition.org.
SEND YOUR
E N V I R O N M E N TA L
QUESTIONS TO: EarthTalk®, c/o
E – The Environmental Magazine,
P.O. Box 5098, Westport, CT 06881;
earthtalk@emagazine.com. E is a
nonprofit publication. Subscribe:
www.emagazine.com/subscribe;
Request a Free Trial Issue:
www.emagazine.com/trial.

ELEVATE YOUR
MARKETING EFFORTS TO A NEW LEVEL
zThe only Filipino program that is free-over-the air, Ch 69
zOn Basic Cable, OMNI 2, Cable 14
zAirs across the country via Bell ExpressVu & Star Choice
Sundays, 10 PM with Alternative viewing, Thursdays, 4 PM
Call 416.285.8583
Left Photo: Dr. Romeo Tan surprisingly walks into one function room of the Delta Chelsea Hotel in
downtown Toronto, not knowing that the gathering he and his wife, Zee (with him in photo), were
attending was intended for him to celebrate his birth anniversary. Around 80 of the couples’ close
friends, family members and some of Dr. Tan’s patients at his several clinic locations braved the deep
freezing weather for Dr. Tan’s special day. At right photo, among those present are Financial Advisor
Jerico Esguera -- a neighbor of Mrs. Tan from her Pangasinan hometown -- and Jerico’s wife, Janet.
Front Page Philippines TV host Gie Alvarez emceed the party’s program. (Manla Media Monitor Photo)
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011 25

THE 2011 “BINIBINING PILIPINAS CANADA” AND “MUNTING BINIBINI” LAUNCH-

ING: The “Pinoy Spotlight Media Entertainment Productions” presents their beau-
ties, Saturday, July 16 this year at the TICC, 190 Railside Road in Scarborough who
will vye for the titles. In photo (L-R), company executives Tonnie Furto, Tina Gutierrez
and Chicky Guerrero, brief contestants on what they described as the most presti-
gious and extensive pageants that will be held in Canada. They said the winner to the
“Binibining Pilipinas Canada” will be sent to the Philippines to compete at the “Binibining
Pilipinas” pageant — whose winner, in turn, will represent the Philippines to the Miss
Universe Pageant in 2012. The company executives said exciting prizes await the win-
ners. Among the prizes at stake are $1,000 cash to the winner, official Binibing Pilipinas
Canada ring and brooch, a modelling contract for a calendar for Honda Canada, one-
year music lessons at the Ontario Conservatory of Music, modelling and social graces
lessons, including those on speech and eloquence, a professional portfolio and re-
sume, local radio and television appearances, spa treatment and pampering, dental
care courtesy of Dr. Evangeline M. Bernabe Dentistry Professional Corporation, fit-
ness classes, dancing lessons with professional providers, workshops with ABS-
CBN TV Network in the Philippines, a TFC Box, and, topmost, according to the
organizers is the experience one gets from their participation in the pageant. For
more info, please call Tonnie, (647) 868-5935 and Tina, (647) 718-1175.
 26 Manila Media Monitor, February 2011

The Board Members and Officers of the Lopez, Quezon Association of Ontario, Canada for a souvenir photo during their 10th anniversary celebration in Scarborough. In the
organization’s ten-year history, the group did fundraising drives aimed at helping their townmates in Lopez. Among their accomplishments were donation of medicines,
medical missions to the town, distribution of food and groceries during the Christmas season, cash donation to the “Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary” parish to help finance
its construction work, a $2,000 cash donation to buy water pump for the local fire unit, donation of firefighting equipment courtesy of the London, Ontario Fire Department.
The association’s president, Zena Flores (seated, 3rd from right) said that her group will continue to help the town and its people have a better quality of life.

YOUR PATRONAGE TO THE PRODUCTS AND SERVICES OF OUR ADVERTISERS

IS SUPPORT TO THE PAPER YOU LOVE TO READ -- MANILA MEDIA MONITOR. FOR YOUR ADVERTISING & PROMOTIONAL NEEDS,
CALL (416) 285,8583
Manila Media Monitor / Front Page Philippines TV

MGA SAGOT SA PAHINA 29

©Copyright 2006
Mindmaster Publishing Inc.
Quezon City, Philippines
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011 27
MEDIA

Newspaper ad revenue down 14% in 2009: StatsCan
Community papers saw ry fell to $4.9 billion in 2009
ad sales decrease of 10% to from $5.4 billion a year
$911.6 million in 2009, earlier, while pretax profit
according to Statistics slipped from 12.3% to 9.9%.
Canada. After accounting for
The report noted that ad 69.2% of all newspaper
revenues for community and revenues in 2007,
daily newspapers slipped a advertising accounted for
combined 14% to $3.1 66.1% in 2009 according to
billion from $3.6 billionin the StatsCan report.
2008. Dailies were the Elsewhere newspapers
hardest hit as ad sales continued to trim operating
dropped 15.5%–to $2.2 expenses. While salaries,
billion from $2.6 billion a wages and benefits
year earlier. comprised 40% of the
According to StatsCan, industry operating expenses
overall revenues for the in 2009, labor costs were
Canadian newspaper indust- down 5.1% – primarily be-
cause of layoffs attributable
to decreasing ad sales.
But a renewed emphasis
on fiscal responsibility also
led to a 21.4% reduction in
spending on advertising,
marketing, travel, meals and
entertainment costs, which
followed a 5.4% decline the
previous year.
The report said that the
hardest-hit regions were
Ontario and Western
Canada, where pretax
profits slipped 6.5% and a
negligible 0.3%
respectively. Revenues in
Quebec were +0.2%.
Elevate your marketing efforts to the next level
In this trying economic
times for businesses, pro-
motional efforts must be el-
evated to new grounds to
reach a wider market; and
this is what trendsetting
businesses are doing to
maximize the potential of
their products and services.
Those targetting the Fili-
pino Canadian community
are turning to “Front Page
Philippines” -- a television
program aimed at the Fili-
pino Canadian community
in Ontario for a wider pros-
pect on their targetted mar-
ket.
Now on its 8th season on
air, Front Page Philippines
airs on prime 10 PM tv time
on Sundays, 10 PM, OMNI
2, Cable 14, in Toronto.
The only Filipino program
aired free-over-the-air on
Channel 69, the program is
simulcast across the country
via satellite television and
being carried by the two sa-
tellite tv carriers allowed by
the Canadian Radio-televi-
sion Telecommunications
Commission (CRTC) to op-
erate in the country. Front
Page Philippines could be
seen by subscribers of Bell
ExpressVu on channel 216
and Starchoice on Channel
395.
The production arm of
Front Page Philippines TV is
working on the script devel-
opment of three commer-
cials, which, after client ap-
proval will immediately go
on the production stage. Re-
cently completed were two
television commercials and
which are now airing on the
program.
For inquiries on how tele-
vision advertising could en-
hance your promotional ef-
forts, call (416) 285-8583.

Above are among the men and women composing the Philippine Canadian Charitable Foundation (PCCF) with whom the Philippine Chamber of Commerce-Toronto (PCCT)
partnered with in the delivery of its trade show event at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Hall C, on Front Street in downtown T.O., Saturday, June 25, 2011. Billed as the
“Pinoy Fiesta and Trade Show Sa Toronto”, the PCCF is tasked with planning, organization and delivery of the day-long entertainment at the event, promising the biggest
entertainment showcase and trade show ever to hit Canada. GMA Pinoy TV is the celebration’s primary sponsor. (Courtesy: Raymond Santos)
 28 Manila Media Monitor, February 2011
MONEY

When it makes sense to

borrow for your RRSP
Loans are a part of life for
most Canadians. We take out
loans to pay for our cars and
our homes, for vacations,
furniture and TVs. And, at this
time of year, as the deadline
for making your 2010
Registered Retirement
Savings Plan (RRSP)
contribution looms, you may
be asking yourself if it makes
sense to make one more loan
– a loan to increase your RRSP
contribution.
The right answer for you
depends on the overall shape
of your financial life. Let us
look at the factors you should
consider.
Makes sense to borrow …
* Because contributing to
your RRSP can pay off in two
ways: First, you’ll increase the
size of your tax refund;
second, you’ll have more tax-
deferred money growing
inside your retirement plan.
But the first rule is this: The
loan must fit your budget.
* When you intend to pay
off the loan within a year.
Remember: Interest on an
RRSP loan is not tax-
deductible. Consider a series
a smaller RRSP loans with
payments within your
budget. Longer term loans
are more suitable for
purchasing non-registered
investments (when the
interest is tax deductible).
* When size of the loan
maximizes tax savings.
Tax rates rise with income.
More tax can often be
saved by spreading RRSP
deductions over more than
one year. While
contributions made in one
year can be deducted in a
future year, it does not
always make sense to
borrow to make an RRSP
contribution if it will take
several years to fully
utilize the deduction.
Again a series of smaller
loans may produce the
better financial result.
* When you use your tax
refund to pay off the loan
as quickly as possible.
Or maybe not …
* If you expect to be
taxed at, or near, the
lowestmarginal rate over
time. In that case, you
won’t get the full tax-
reduction benefit of
making your maximum
RRSP contribution, so the cost
of taking out an RRSP loan
doesn’t make sense. Instead, you
might want to consider
contributing to a Tax-free
Savings Account (TFSA). The
contribution isn’t tax deductible
but money and interest inside a
TFSA is tax-free and, unlike
your RRSP, so are withdrawals,
which can be made at any time
for any purpose.
* If your increased RRSP
refund is already earmarked, in
whole or in part, to pay taxes you
owe on other income.
* If you are unsure your
income level will allow you to
meet your RRSP loan
obligations, which you will be
required to do regardless of your
income level and the
performance of your RRSP in
the shorter term.
Borrowing to increase your
RRSP contribution can be a And of course, your professional advisor can help you map out the RRSP
useful strategy but it also comes contribution strategy that fits the overall shape of your financial life. (This column,
with specific risks. Perhaps you written and published by Investors Group Financial Services Inc. (in Quebec – a
can avoid the need to borrow FinancialServices Firm), presents general information only and is not a solicitation
next year through a Pre- to buy or sell any investments. Contact a financial advisor for specific advice about
Authorized Contribution (PAC) your circumstances. For more information on this topic, please contact your Investors
plan that automatically deducts Group Consultant Rhowena Adolfo, Director and Senior Consultant, Investors
and saves any amount you Group Financial Services Inc., Toll Free-1-888-801-9406 Ext. 538,
wantfrom your regular Rhowena.Adolfo@InvestorsGroup.com or visit www.investorsgroup.com/consult/
paycheques. rhowena.adolfo)

A Place Where Money Talks:
Canada’s Currency Museum
We associate museums with time and place rich in
rooms full of valuable Canadian history.
artefacts that visitors quietly The Currency
navigate as they learn a thing Museum’s other role is to
or two about the past. bring that history to life
Canada’s Currency Museum through over 100,000
also contributes to our artefacts of bank notes,
economic well-being. coins and other money-
It plays a key role in related paraphernalia.
fostering confidence in the From the fur
cash we use every day, helps trade and “beaver
us understand the value of economics” all the way to
money, and to grasp economic our current series which
concepts that aren’t illustrates Canada’s
necessarily easily understood. journey from exploration
Polymer Notes to recent innovation, our
The Museum is the public culture and identity
face of the Bank of Canada, features prominently on
and will play an important role our cash.
in educating Canadians when If Canada’s
a new series of polymer bank numismatic heritage peaks
notes makes its debut later this your interest, the
year. Museum’s website is like
You likely take it for a virtual museum with
granted, but the cash in your access to the vast
wallet is jam packed with collection of artefacts.
technology to protect it against Exhibitions on Now
counterfeiting. The Museum In a comic strip
helps by showing how to use format, The Good, the Bad
the security features on our and the Fake is a youth-
bank notes to identify oriented exhibition that
suspected fakes. tells the story of two
Distinctly Canadian teenagers who stumble
We think of cash as an onto a bag of money that
everyday tool, a means of turns out to be fake. Along
obtaining goods and services. with the two teens, you’ll
But our currency is also about learn about counterfeiting,
who we are, and each bank get to handle actual
counterfeit notes, and learn
note’s design reflects a certain
FAO sees repeat of 2008 food crisis
MANILA — The Food in the price of agricultural only be achieved in 2150 if
and Agriculture products is due partly to the current trends persist,” said
Diouf.
Organization (FAO) of failure of rich and poor
the difference between funny the United Nations has countries to address the FAO said there is a need
money and the real thing. warned of a repeat of structural imbalances in the to conclude the Doha Round
Penalties of Counterfeiting is the 2008 global food international agricultural of negotiations at the World
not for the faint of heart. This crisis as crop harvests system. Trade Organization (WTO)
audio tour takes you on a fall in the United States, He warned that if current to put an end to “market
journey through time to learn Europe, Australia and trends persisted, one of the distortions and restrictive
about the creative tricks of the Argentina, and Millennium Development trade practices.”
trade, and the equally creative agricultural- Goals (MDGs) set by world FAO said implementation
punishments devised to stop this commodity prices spike leaders would not be met by of such policies at the global
crime. in global markets. 2015. level requires the respect of
Programs Available FAO Director “Reducing by half the the commitments of the
to Schools/the Public General Jacques Diouf number of hungry people on developed countries at their
Not everyone can visit the noted that the volatility the planet by 2015 would various summits.
Museum in person, so several
programs about currency and
monetary policy are designed to
be delivered externally. No
classroom or community is out
of reach.
Inflation Busters:
A fun and dynamic lesson on
how economics affects us all.
(for grades 9 to 12, CEGEPs and
community colleges)
Safe Money:
A hands-on program about
Canada’s paper money—which
actually arrives on your doorstep
in a safe! (for grades 5 to 6)
Counterfeit Detection Kit:
A curriculum-based program In photo are the officers and directors of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce-
that teaches how to tell a real Toronto (PCCT) for 2011-2012 who will take their oath of office, Saturday, Febru-
note from a counterfeit. The kit ary 26 in simple ceremonies in Scarborough, Ontario. Standing from left: Edgar
includes engaging activities, Gonzales, Ace Alvarez, Rafael Nebres, Sonny Montojo, Elizabeth leggett, Joseph
presentations and lesson plans, Alilio, Cori Naron, Oswald Tugadi, Rose Ami, Cora de la Cruz, Flor Vendiola, Cheryl
while providing a useful job- Cantonjos, Cherrie Liu, Steve Pagao and Edwin Corton. Seated at the front row
readiness skill. (for grades 10- are the members of the Commission on Elections at the PCCT election, January
9. From left: Julito Longkines, Jess Cabrias, Winston Lim and Serge Amante.
12) For more information, visit
(Manila Media Monitor Photo)
www.currencymuseum.ca
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011
North York Pinoy sports group
holds winter Fundraiser
By Jennifer S. McLean
Determined to meet its
commitment in hosting the
24th North American
Basketball Association’s
basketball tournament in the
Fall, the North York Pinoy
Athletic Association
(NYPAA) held a Dinner
Dance on February 20th,
2011 at the Korean
Canadian Cultural Centre,
Toronto. The successful and
fun-filled event was carried
out with the main goal of
raising funds in support of
NYPAA’s hosting the 25-
city, Labour Day long
weekend NABA
competitions in Toronto on
September 3 and 4, 2011.
Led by NYPAA president
Vilma Tahsin and aptly
supported by the
association’s sports leaders
Roger Tarca, Bob San Juan
and Ed Sotto, the officers,
members and volunteers
welcomed more than 175
guests, parents, friends and
family members to the
evening’s Western-themed
celebration.
The well- received
evening program was ably
emceed jointly by Ashley
Tahsin, Robbie Tarca and
29
SPORTS
at 905-602-0923, email
KCCC prepares for 2011 Golf Classic info@kalayaancentre.ca or visit
The Kalayaan sponsors has steadily ceremonies will im- www.kalayaancentre.ca/golf.
Cultural Community increased. This promises to be mediately follow. SAGOT SA
Centre (KCCC) is another exciting tournament Raffle prizes also CROSSWORD PUZZLE
inviting golfers to that will provide players with await the partici-
Raph San Juan. participate in its 2011 the opportunity to play and pants. An auction
Among the highlights of the KCCC Golf Classic at compete with fellow golfers will also be held on
event include the : group singing the Royal Ontario Golf at a challenging golf course items such as Taylor
by NYPAA’s young players , Club, Saturday, August and at the same time support Made driver R9-460
presentation of fourteen candidates 27, 2011. KCCC. and Titlist Scotty
of the “2011 Miss Caregiver” This is the fourth year Royal Ontario Golf Club in Cameron Putter with
pageant and the raffle of door and for KCCC’s annual golf Hornby (Milton), Ontario is head cover signed by
tickets prizes with TV set as major tournament and every considered one of Kaneff Camilo Villegas.
prize. succeeding year, the Golf’s premier golf courses. To register,
NABA executive adviser Gani number of golfers and After the games, the awards contact the KCCC
Gregorio, in his inspirational talk
encouraged the party attendees and
their friends and families to
continuously support NYPAA and
to fully participate in the 2011
NABA basketball tournaments, as
well. Addressing likewise the
guests and her members, NYPAA
prexy V. Tahsin stressed the value
and contribution of volunteerism
especially in sports activities. She
also warmly thanked all the ever-
active officers, supportive parents,
goal- driven players, and generous
donors & benefactors of the 11-
year old community based sports
organization.
Coordinators of the event were
Cristina Fernandez and Maggie
Soriano, Bebot and Malou Silva,
Marlene Moscoso, Myrna Corpuz,
Myrna Bulotano, Eva Agua, Tess
Acevedo, Alice Baguistan, Baby
San Juan, Leah Borja, Mylene
Escalona, Suzette Merced, Sally
Montero and Arnel Dipaling.
30 Manila Media Monitor, February 2011
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011 31

Philippine Independence Day Council launches Miss Philippines and Little Miss Philippines Pageants
(Note from Editor: Readers
are cautioned that this press
release refers to pageants
that are distinct and separate
from the pageants described
in the photo release and
caption below)
The Philippine
Independence Day Council
(“PIDC”) Pageant
Committee comprised of
Event Chair, Rory Elefano,
Vice-Chairs, Suzy Llanera
and Gene Elamparo and
Cesar Mañebo, Production
and Stage Director, is
formally announcing this
year ’s Pageant launch
scheduled on Sunday,
February 20, 2011 and
searching for candidates
andinviting girls to be a part
of this prestigious event and
have an experience of a
lifetime!
“The PIDC beauty
pageant is an event
organized by volunteers
from the Filipino-Canadian
Community. Our goal is
to foster unity among
Filipino-Canadians and to
promote better
understanding of the
Filipino Culture within
community and with the
Canadian people in general.
The event is sponsored by
civic-minded businessmen
and individuals.
The roles of the Miss
Philippines and Little Miss
Philippines – PIDC will
serve as Ambassadors of
Goodwill to all activities
within the Filipino and
multi-cultural communities
that PIDC is involved in.
They will promote not only
the Filipino culture, but
Philippine Tourism, as well.
They will serve as a role
model to the youth,
showcasing the beauty, the
talents and virtues of a true
Filipina.”
Miss Philippines
PIDC – Qualifications:
Filipino descent or at
least 50% Filipino
ancestry; between 16 and
25 years old; she must
possess beauty of face
and figure; with talent;
single, never been
married;of good moral
character; outstanding
personality
Little Miss Philippines
PIDC – Qualifications:
Filipino descent or at least
50% Filipino ancestry; up to
11 years old; with talent
The pageant will be held
on Saturday, May 21, 2011.
The winner will wear a
crown, sash, receive a
trophy, flowers and a round-
trip ticket to the Philippines
plus a take home of $500.00
cash. ABS-CBN is also
offering a studio tour while
visiting the Philippines.
Candidates will have an
opportunity to participate in
all the PIDC’s events such
as the Independence Day
Ball scheduled on Friday,
June 10th at the Le Jardin –
Versailles Room, the Miss
Sports Model competition
held in conjunction with the
Mabuhay Cup Invitational
basketball tournament at the
Hoopdome on Saturday,
July 9th, Santacruzan at the
Mabuhay Festival on
Saturday, July 23rd at the
Metro Toronto Convention
Centre, ‘parada ng mga
beauties’ at the annual
“Salu-Salo sa Earl Bales
Park” community picnic.
They will also join other
community events and
festivals, such as the
celebration of Philippine
Independence Day at
Nathan Phillips Square
with the Filipino Centre
Toronto (“FCT”)
organizers of ‘Pista sa
Nayon’. Miss
PhilippinesPIDC, Little
Miss Philippines PIDC
along with their court
together and other
pageant winners such as
“Miss Manila” will also
participate in the
Santacruzan and Parade
at the Cabbagetown
Festival held every
September.
For more information
on how to join, please
contact the Pageant
Chairs: Rory Elefano at
(416) 733-7818 orEmail:
aelefano@yahoo.com or
Gene Elamparo at (416)
284-3547Email:
gene.elamparo@rbc.com
or Suzy Llanera at (416)
421-4289Email:
susanllanera@yahoo.ca
or Cesar Mañebo at (647)
829-9187. (PR)

MOST PRESTIGIOUS PHILIPPINE-CANADA PAGEANT IS NOW ACCEPTING CANDIDATES: Philippine Canadian Charitable Foundation on its inaugural pageant year launching
attracted a good number of candidates who will soon become the first Little Miss Philippines Canada, Miss Philippines Canada and Mrs. Philippines Canada. The overall
chair of the pageant committee, Rosemer Enverga, promises that the pageant will be the biggest and the most prestigious. The biggest, because for the first time, a
pageant will be held at the confines of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre on June 25th in conjunction with the celebration of the much-awaited event, “The Pinoy Fiesta
and Trade Show sa Toronto”. It is not too late to register yet. Experience of a lifetime awaits you! Please contact Rosemer, 416 284 9299, Bing, 905 472 3194, Shiela, 416
209 2338, Ben, 647 726 3878, Sena, 416 284 3938, Mitz 647 808 4823. To be part of the TV taping for National broadcast, register before March 20. Part of Proceeds of the
event will go towards the building of houses for poor families in the Philippines. Limited candidates will be accepted. Join NOW! (Note from Editor: Readers are cautioned
that this photo release refers to a distinct and separate pageant other than those described in the press release published on top)

Intn’l Film Festival for

Children and Youth
opens April 8, 2011
Sprockets Toronto
International Film Festival for
Children and Youth is thrilled
to open this year’s festival,
Friday, April 8 with the World
Premiere of Pixar Animation
Studio’s newest short,
Hawaiian Vacation, a Toy Story
Toon.
As part of the Sprockets
Opening Night programme,
audiences will also be treated
to a sneak peek at the upcoming
Disney Pixar release, Cars 2.
Attendees will learn how the
magic is made during a special
behind-the-scenes presentation
by a Pixar animator who
worked on both Hawaiian
Vacation and Cars 2.
For the past 14 years
Sprockets provide children and
youth the best in film.
“The Champions”
perform at Queen’s Park
Once again, these very young–
talented Filipino-Canadian kids
have added another performance
of their lives when they were
invited to sing the National anthem
during the Ontario Medal for Good
Citizenship Investiture ceremonies
at the Queen’s Park in Toronto.
They sang the bilingual anthem
in an acapella quartet style, right
in front of the Honourable Lt.
Governor David Onley , the
awards recipients coming from all
over the province of Ontario, with
their families and audience who
came to witness the ceremonies.
“The kids sounded great!
YOUR PATRONAGE OF OUR ADVERTISERS ...
is support to the paper you love to read. Manila Media Monitor.
Everyone had nothing but
compliments. His Honour David
Onley and Her Honour were very
pleased with their performance”:
said Maria D’Addona, who invited
the kids and who was the Program
Lead of the Ministry of
Citizenshipand Immigration,
Citizenship Branch of the Ontario
Honours and Awards Secretariat.
Last June 3rd, the group also
performed before Premier Dalton L-R: Candace Santos, Roy Tugbang, Glenn Montera and Jasmine
McGuinty at the Elgin’s Winter Ragual. Foreground is Hon. Ontario Lt. Gov. David Onley. (PR)
Garden Theatre during the
discovered them. start of many performances to
Amethyst Awards Night for the
Way to go “The Champions” for come at the historic Queen’s Park,a
Ontario Public Service. That
bringing another feather on your landmark in Ontario.
waswhere D’Addona >>>
cap. You are truly a group of The group is composed of
wonder and thank you for Jasmine Ragual (of Brampton),
championing the Fil-Canadian Roy Tugbang (of Newmarket),
kids to the mainstream audience. Glenn Montera (of York) and
This may very well be just the Candace Santos (of Mississauga).
32 Manila Media Monitor, February 2011
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011
Jenifer Camacho in ... J e n i f e r Forever 3
The long-awaited concert of the
year is now coming. If she did
tremendous performances in
Jenifer Forever 1 and 2, part 3 will
be a very spectacular one. This
time she stages a more explosive
and more extravagant performance
to conclude the concert series.
Jenifer Forever 3 will be held at
Capitol Event Theatre, 2492
Yonge Street in Toronto, Ontario
on April 8, 2011 at 8:00 PM.
Jenifer, the Toronto Concert
Queen, will entertain the people
from all walks of life, with her
absolute performance of modern,
pop and R&B genre.
After one year of tedious
preparation, the musical genius
Noel Garcia of Com 11 Studio is
ready to unveil the much
anticipated second CD, entitled
“Jenifer Reveals”. Songs included
in the album are Centuries, Burn
it Down, Modern Day Romance,
Poison, Lost, and Dedication.
With her singing prowess, her
active role in the community and
her entire experience from her
modest beginnings and success as
a “DIVA” in her own right -
inspires a lot of people and even
influenced some upcoming talents
to pursue their singing career.
Encore! Live! AS1 Part 2
Shimmering every minute, JREM Entertainment has
Jenifer has won a lot of accolades announced its production of AS 1,
and became one of the most Part 2, a much - requested repeat
sought, visible, prominent performance of Mr. Pure Energy,
performers in the community. She Gary Valenciano and Concert King
is an awardee of the 2010 Most Martin, Nievera to be held on
Beautiful Filipinos in Canada, Saturday, May 28, 2011 at John
Maharlika awardee of Music W.H. Bassett Theatre (Metro
Festival in 2006, crowned as Ms. Convention Centre).
Lakambini 2004 by the Kalayaan Gary and Martin — a perfect
Centre in Mississauga and she duo! They combine musical
received the Tuklas Female versatility and showmanship.
Vocalist of the year in 1996. AS1 was conceived in 2009 and
Be there and witness as Jenifer had tremendous success in North
reveals the epitome of her America.
performance in Jenifer Forever 3. Their first concert in Toronto on
(PR) October 30, 2009 at the Massey
Hall was a sold-out show; and
<<< Filipino-American actor J.P. those who watched their
Viernes is guest in “Pearl of the performance then still talk about
Orient” program, hosted and it — how much they enjoyed the
produced by Joel Recla (left in
photo). The California-based 14-
year old plays the title role in The larger-than-life adventures of
Elton John’s “Billy Elliot -- a
Broadway musical currently
running at the Canon Theatre in
DWARFINA on GMA Pinoy TV!
Toronto. Photo was taken after What she lacks in height, she
an interview in the program,
makes up for in character, courage,
February 15, 2011. “Perlas ng
Silangan” airs Tuesdays, 11 PM, and immeasurable kindness. Small
CHIN Radio- 100.7 FM. wonder then how a girl her size can
find her way in the big and
Dennis Trillo and Heart
Evangelista are the lead in GMA unpredictable world out there.
Pinoy TV’s telefantasya offering
ongoing. GMA said the series is
guaranteed to delight both the
young and old through
Dwarfina’s adventures. (GMA
Photo) >>>
<<< Matthew and Len Mahoney
join pop/ R&B recording artist
Shawn Desman for a photo op at
the opening of Strength-N-U at
the grand opening of the pro-
grams on fitness and nutrition
facility, 80 Milner Avenue, Unit 10
in Scarborough, Ontario. Des-
man was one of two special
guests at the event. Desman
came straight from the Pearson
International Airport, together See the world from the
with fellow pop/R&B artist perspective of a precious little
Shiloh, flying in from London, heroine with in GMA Pinoy TV’s
Ontario where they had a perfor- telefanstasya offering,
mance the the evening before the “Dwarfina”.
Strength-N-U event. At press Guaranteed to delight both
time, Desman is in Germany for young and old, Dwarfina follows
a series of sold out concerts.
the majestic and magical
(Manila Media Monitor Photo)
adventures of a girl barely the size
of a finger, and how she finds her place in both the
mortal and supernatural realms.
Playing the lead characters no less are award-
winning actress Heart Evangelista as the fun-loving
Dwarfina, and multi-awarded actor Dennis Trillo as
Lyndon, Dwarfina’s beloved friend. After their
successful team-up in an episode for Dear Friend and
in the movie Mano Po, Heart and Dennis are ready
to reignite their tandem and deliver fresh and
remarkable performances on television.
Forming the ensemble of prominent actors and
actresses in Dwarfina’s earthly world are Janice de
Belen as Marissa, Dwarfina’s mother who was cursed
by a black duwende before giving birth to her child;
Chanda Romero as Selya, Dwarfina’s cruel
grandmother; Cris Villanueva as Kardo, Dwarfina’s
affectionate father; Mark Bautista as Estong,
Lyndon’s friend who works at the pier; Iwa Moto as
Lucille, Dwarfina’s jealous sister; Yogo Singh as
Buddy, a batang kalye adopted by Lyndon; and up-
and-coming Kapuso teen stars Derrick Monasterio
as Darius, Estong’s co-worker, and Kylie Padilla as
Chloe, Lyndon’s younger sister who was raised in
the U.S.
Meanwhile, playing equally significant characters
in the land of duwendes are Jackielou Blanco as Dita
Abiana, Queen of the duwendes; Jestoni Alarcon as
Ditu Calixto, King of the duwendes; Angelika dela
Cruz as Romera, a powerful yet evil dwarf; Emilio
33
show and that it was really
“unforgettable” for them.
“So do not miss this their
second appearance in Toronto,”
said Rene and Neneng
Maalihan, producers of the
show, “as we assure you of new
acts and mesmerizing songs
from Gary and Martin that will
leave you ‘breathless’ all over
again.”
Contact JREM Entertainment
for ticket reservation by phone
Neneng (647) 401-5818, Rene
(647) 401-7363, or Elvie (416)
656-8269; by e-mail:
jremco@rogers.com
website:www.jrementertainment.com.
Ticket prices are: Orchestra
$150(VIP), $125, $100 and
Balcony: $110, $85, $65. (PR)
Garcia as Hulyano, a rich and
ambitious dwarf and husband of
Romera; Pauleen Luna as
Gwendina, daughter of Romera
and Hulyano, another antagonist in
the story; and Tony Mabesa as
Nuno Umberto, adviser to the
royal duwende couple.
Completing the cast are Will
Devaughn as Elvin, Dwarfina’s
bestfriend in the supernatural
world; Vaness del Moral as
Camila, Dwarfina’s loyal servant;
and Mico Aytona as Duwentukin,
a dwarf tasked to look after
Dwarfina. DWARFINA will also
feature the special participation of
Ms. Lani Mercado as Andrea,
Lyndon’s doting mother.
The story of DWARFINA begun
with Kardo (Cris Villanueva) and
Marissa (Janice de Belen), a
couple who has always wanted to
bear a child. One day, Marissa
accidentally destroys a mound
believed to be a nuno sa punso,
killing the daughter of Calixto
(Jestoni Alarcon) and Abiana
(Jackielou Blanco), the heir to the
throne of the Kingdom of
duwendes.
Abiana and Calixto are left
devastated as this marks the end
of their rein as well as chaos in the
land of the duwendes. Knowing
that the women in the duwende
world can only bear one child in
their lifetime, Abiana uses her
power to curse Marissa’s child so
she can take the baby and replace
it with the dead princess.
Abiana stole Dwarfina upon
birth and presented her as their
princess, much to the surprise of
Romera. Romera is the one who
was truly responsible for the death
of Abiana’s daughter, aware that
once the death of the real princess
comes out, Calixto and Abiana will
be forced out of their thrown and
she will become the new queen.
Calixto, however, is filled with
remorse upon seeing how much
Marissa and Kardo loved their
child. The royal duwende couple
then decided to return Dwarfina to
her family while keeping
everything as a secret from the
duwendes. Watch the story unfold
before your screen.(PR)
34 Manila Media Monitor, February 2011

Our Journey >>>
from page 8
3 AM – when everyone was
somuch tired waiting. that
everyone eventually decided to
rest for the night.
While we were so tired and
burnt out by all the day’s activities,
my wife and I decided to pray the
Holy Rosary, then slept it out.
By 5 AM, we were awakened by
a call from our good friends
extending their congratulations.
We won! By 36 votes! ... Thanks
be to God!
We have always prayed for
guidance and ways to help our
kababayans. It was never in our
dreams that we would be blessed
to have the opportunity to do more,
and to more for the diverse
communities around us.
My Special thanks to our other
campaign managers, namely, Ra-
mon Cruz, Jimmy and Bing Ma-
Ooops >>> page 11
event where the Philippine
Chamber of Commerce-Toronto
honored ten of its past presi-
dents, it is better to be in busi-
ness, rather than the government
service because, in the latter, one
wrong move and the media
pound on them.
Newly-elected Catholic School
Board Trustee Jun Enverga who
was seated near the location I
was working at covering the
event, said, “Yes, that’s right!”.
As I turned my head to Jun, he
was looking at me.
I responded, “Don’t look at me
like that. I have nothing to do
with what befell you, my friend!”
***
From a forwarded email by media
collague Mogi Mogado:
Four guys have been going to
the same deer camp for many
years. Two days before the group
is to leave, Ron’s wife puts her
foot down and tells him he isn’t
going.
Ron’s friends are very upset that
he can’t go, but what can they do.
rasigan, Gil Zamora, Gil Dicion,
Norma and Milo Briones, the
Flores Family; and again, to all
of you who voted for me, helped
in the campaign through emails,
phones, canvassed, walked door-
to-door, talked to their friends,
donated funds, gave flyers,
prayed for us and just plain
wished us all the best.
Being elected is a unique
privilege and honor, and I truly
thank God for this opportunity to
make a difference and to be
entrusted this great
responsibility. Added icing in the
cake were making history as the
first Filipino elected in Toronto
and being the first elected Visible
Minority in the Toronto Catholic
District School Board.
If we were able to do this feat,
so can you! These are just my
opinions and stories. You are
entitled to them!
(junenverga@gmail.com)
Two days later the three get to
the camping site only to find Ron
sitting there with a tent set up,
firewood gathered, and dinner
cooking on the fire.
“Dang man, how long you been
here, and how did you talk your
wife into letting you go?”
“Well, I’ve been here since
yesterday. Yesterday evening, I
was sitting in my chair and my
wife came up behind me and put
her hands over my eyes and
said, ’Guess who?’.” I pulled
her hands off, and she was wearing
a brand new nightie.
She took my hand and pulled me
to our bedroom. The room had
candles and rose petals all over. On
the bed she had handcuffs, and
ropes! She told me to tie and cuff
her to the bed, and I did.
And then she said, “Do
whatever you want.”
So, Here I am.
***
From Philippine-based
newsman Ramon Bernardo:
A new supermarket opened in
Davenport, Iowa. It has an
automatic water mister to keep
Dare >>> from page 9
actually a dollar when added to
99 cents.
There is always a penny in
every dollar, but never a dollar in
a penny. We are all like pennies.
Let us all be the 100th cent of
every dollar. No matter how simple
and how insignificant we think we
are, we can make a difference in
this world.
When Jesus formed his
disciples, he picked out the
seemingly insignificant men. After
guiding them, they stood out and
became outstanding within the
circle of Christian faith. Except for
Judas, he also stood out, but out
of the circle. And outside — he
stood.
So, dare to standout. It is when
you standout that you become
o u t s t a n d i n g .
(artisticam@rogers.com)
the produce fresh. Just before it
goes on, you hear the sound of
distant thunder and the smell of
fresh rain.
When you pass the milk cases,
you hear cows mooing and you
experience the scent of fresh
mown hay.
In the meat department there
is the aroma of charcoal grilled
steaks with onions.
When you approach the egg
case, you hear hens cluck and
cackle, and the air is filled with
the pleasing aroma of bacon and
eggs frying.
The bread department
features the tantalizing smell of
fresh baked bread & cookies.
I don’t buy toilet paper there
anymore.
***
Back to Facebook ... Having
noticed that most of my postings
on Facebook were business-
related, my nephew, Rafi, posted
on my wall: “Uncle, how much
does it cost to advertise full page
in your facebook wall?”
With a smiley on my reply, I
commented, “There’s no cost,
except the sales pitch is in my
system already!”
Migrant >>> from page 10
Overseas migration is under the
population segment of Vision
2020, and two of the six
population-related goals of Vision
2020 are where overseas migration
operates: developing a reliable
population database (that is
hopefully 95 percent accurate),
and minimize the negative impacts
of migration on Trinidadian
society.
Under the goal of developing a
reliable population database,
Michele Reis of The University of
the West Indies observes Vision
2020 hoped to precisely determine
how migration impacts on
education, the work force, and the
country’s elderly population.
Meanwhile, Vision 2020 hoped to
reduce the emigration of skilled
Trinidadian labor, facilitate the
integration of returning migrants,
and facilitate the full integration of
documented and non-documented
migrants in T&T.
Such bold integration of
migration in T&T’s Vision 2020 is
so even if the country is not a
major recipient of remittances
(around US$ 87 million reached
T&T in 2007, with that amount
coming from more than half of
overseas Trinidadians who have
college degrees). T&T, Reis also
notes, is a destination country of
trafficked and smuggled persons,
asylum-seekers and refugees.
Compare Trinidad and Tobago
to the fourth largest remittance
economy, the Philippines: a
country with an elaborate
migration management system that
received over-US$17 billion in
2009, and where an estimated 8.5
million overseas Filipinos,
scattered in 220 countries and
territories, come from.
As the government of popularly-
elected President Benigno Simeon
Aquino III is about to finish
producing the 2010-2016 Medium-
Term Philippine Development Plan
(MTPDP), something seems
missing: Where does the Philippines
want to go, regardless of who is this
country’s president?
Six years, thus Aquino’s term, are
not enough for the Philippines to
generate some 13-15 million quality
jobs to reduce joblessness visibly, if
estimates by economists Fernando
Aldaba and Reuel Hermoso are to
be believed. Poverty levels remained
the same (26 million living in
poverty), says initial results of the
2009 Family Income and
Expenditures Survey. It may take a
herculean effort to bring back
agriculture’s old glory, or even
revitalize the stagnant industry or
manufacturing sector.
A government agency, the
Commission on Filipinos Overseas
(CFO), just revised its vision and
mission in the hope that migration
and development, by 2020, has
been mainstreamed in the
bureaucracy. In the short term,
thinktanks like the Scalabrini
Migration Center hope a national
migration and development plan is
formulated by June 2011.
But where the Filipino boat
intends to sail remains a question.
One remembers a vision by former
President Fidel Ramos (1992-
1998) during his term:
“Philippines 2000” where, by the
turn of the new millennium, the
country would have become a
Tiger economy.
While many factors did not
achieve such a vision, and the
Philippines continues to be a
basket case in Asia, at least there
was a vision to direct an entire
nation’s efforts.
The National Economic and
Development Authority (NEDA)
may want to think about drafting
a long-term strategic plan similar
to T&T’s Vision 2020, one that
goes beyond a current president’s
regime. After launching the new
MTPDP by early 2011, NEDA can
convene the country’s best minds
to, without partisanship, help draft
such a development vision for the
long haul —and have President
Aquino endorse this process.
And overseas migration’s place
in such a long-term Philippine
vision? It is time to optimize a
“Philippine diasporic dividend” —
the net of net benefit from overseas
migration— that supplements a
long-term, not just a short-term,
vision of Philippine development.
Since the overseas exodus has
impacted many aspects of Filipino
socio-economic and cultural life,
it is time to develop a migration-
and-development system that sees
the country and her institutions
address systemically the various
impacts of migration on
development. The Philippines has
yet to have a system to address the
economic and social impacts of
migration —or even a set of goals
to manage these impacts and
optimize migration’s gains.
Integrating such a migration-
and-development system into a
long-term Philippine vision will be
good first step to see the progress
of this migrant-sending country
beyond merely sending people
abroad and receiving dollars.
But if the boat just sails and
doesn’t know where to go, there
goes the thrill of looking ahead to
a brighter Filipino future.

Top Photo: Ten past presidents of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce-Toronto (PCCT) are honored
at the recent 20th Anniversary Gala Dinner of the organization. Feted during the event, are as follows:
Winston Lim,1991-1992; Clemente Benedicto, 1992; Joe Sagala, 1994; Mann Nacario, 1995 – 1996;
Rubi Talavera, 1997; Jess Antonio, 1998 – 1999; Eddie Lee, 2000 – 2001; Monina Lim-Serano, 2002;
Rafael Nebres, 2003 – 2004; and, Cora dela Cruz, 2005 – 2006. Not all recipients were able to attend
the recognition ceremonies, but were represented by fellow PCCT members. With them in photo are
the officers and directors of the PCCT. In the same event, Rafael “Paeng” Nebres (photo at right)
receives a Plaque for Service Recognition from Philippine Embassy Charge d’ Affaires Minerva Falcon,
for his many accomplishments as president of the PCCT for the years 2003-2004; 2007-2008; and,
2009-2010. With them in photo are then PCCT VP-Membership, Oswald Tugadi and directors Sonny
Montojo and Cori Naron.
Manila Media Monitor, February 2011 35
36 Manila Media Monitor, February 2011