friends International Magazine june 2011
1
friends International Magazine june 2011
editor’s note
Dear FIM readers,
Published by
Smart Way International Ltd
5D Sun King Building
580 Queen’s Road West
Hong Kong
Tel: 5182 5569
Email: editorial@friends-intl-mag.com
INTERNET
www.friends-intl-mag.com
The heroism and sacrifices of our forefathers has
taught us a lesson of patriotism. As we celebrate our
Independence we take pride of honoring one of the great
pillars of our independence – Dr Jose P. Rizal, who made
great contributions for the Himagsikan by writing a book
which opened the minds of our countrymen to fight against the Spaniards.
PUBLISHER / EDITOR
Capt. Rosendo C. Herrera
We celebrate Independence Day not because it is part of tradition in Hong Kong but
because we are proud of ourselves as a Filipino and the joy of freedom as part of our
nation’s history. As we celebrate our Independence I salute all the Filipino OFWs in
Hong Kong who still carry on with their struggle and effort in fighting against the
bondage of poverty.
MANAGING EDITOR
Arnold P. Grospe
Filipino communities in Hong Kong and other parts of the world have been part
of our global mission in fighting for freedom for poverty which is the nation’s main
setback in modern days.
ART DIRECTOR
Willy Castañar
In last month’s issue we pay homage and salute our great mothers in celebration of
the Mother’s day. This month it’s about time to honor their partners- our fathers.
They are the men who embrace their role as a daddy and who have an awesome
responsibility of imparting wisdom, showing to us - their children how to love,
respect and care for our mothers, teaching self-discipline, caring, educating, training
them how to become independent, making sound decisions, developing their
spiritual lives, providing financial resources, giving instruction on how to become a
productive member of society.
COLUMNS
Apostle Renato D. Carillo
Bro. Eddie Villanueva
Bro. Rolly Estrella
Barrister Ody Lai
Noel Asinas
Cora Carsola
Ruel Y. Quezon
PHOTOGRAPHY
Bobby Campus
Jo Mabalot
Nery/Leo Jimena
Rodel Concha
Letty Romero
CONTRIBUTORS
April Joy
Bernadette Benitez
Chloe Belle Dogeno
Cleofe Mendoza
Lorna Pagaduan
Lucida Maingpis
My dela Roca
Noemi Paniza
Remely Valdez
Riza Acosta
Violy Pascual
PRINTING
Smart Way International Ltd
No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole
or in part without the prior writtent consent of the
publisher. Opinions and comments of writers, columnists
and contributors do not necessarily reflect those of
the management’s or any staff of Friends International
Magazine.
We welcome editorial articles, photographs and illustrations
for publication. Please send all communications and
materials to: Friends International Magazine, 5D Sun King
Building, 580 Queen’s Road West, Hong Kong.
2
In this month’s issue we are celebrating three important
occasions - the 113th Independence Day, the 150th birthday
of our National Hero, as well as the tribute and honor to
our great fathers as we celebrate Father’s Day.
friends International Magazine june 2011
The third Sunday of June is recognized as Father’s Day wherein we pay tribute to our
fathers, grandfathers, godfathers, stepfathers and to those men who serve as positive
role models in our lives and those of our family.
Dads at do not ask for much. So on their special day, treat them by surprising them
with a simple gift to honor their sacrifices and care for us. in most families, they are
our exceptional unsung heroes. They hardly ever get their fair share of adulation. Let
Father’s Day be our way to spread the message of our love.
There are often times and situations, when we children forget to hug our dad, kiss
and tell him that we love him like we do to our mothers. Most of us would concur
that we assume our father to be the provider for the family. Today, like many other
days, brings warmest thoughts to our great fathers, and all the ways that he brightens
our life all year through. This is the day that gives us the golden opportunity to
express our genuine appreciation and innocent love to our dad, who has been a
wonderful part of our life. It is the day to celebrate the unique bond shared with the
significant man.
We would like to commemorate and celebrate the lives and importance of Fathers
who are still here with us but also of those who had already lived their life fully.
There are many of us who already lost their fathers. These are the people who felt
terrible during that time. Most, I know have regretted that they have not been given a
chance to even say I love you or to forgive their father for the wrong they have done
or worst to even say sorry for the wrong they have done to their dad. But whatever
feeling we have, we cannot bring them back. It will never be enough to pay for lost
time and the wanting to be with our fathers again.
That is why this Father’s Day, it is important to always remember that even though
we are no longer with our father, even though he had already ascended to the Grand
Lodge above and into the next life, he will always be with us. Whatever and whoever
we are now are in some way a vision of what he is to us. His character and thoughts
are somehow entrenched in us.
Happy Independence day and Happy Father’s Day to all!
Happy reading… Mabuhay ang Pilipino….
Arnold P. Grospe
Managing Editor
3
friends International Magazine june 2011
friends Communi t y B oa r d
Got an announcement to make ? Let everyone know. Have your upcoming association activities published here for FREE !
Call us on 254I –25I0 during office hours or email details to editorial@friends-intl-mag.com or sms 69740836
To all Association Leaders in Hong Kong. You are all
invited to join the newly formed Council of Filipino
Leaders (CFL) for more info pls call Gen Sec Medy
Borlaza at 6773 1021.
To all Marinduquenos who are interested to join
the Association.Please contact the following Nos.
91757513/93420937/63405147 and 94570151.
The Management and staff of Friends International Magazine wish to thank the following
volunteer contributors and distributors for sharing their talent and support to the Magazine.
Gina Montero
Gie Ignacio
Mayvie Acosta
Olive Lasat
Juvy Aldea
Fely Bunso S. Naoe
Mario de los Reyes
Distribution Team
IMAP-HK
LOFM
BOWA
JUNE 2011 issue 67
September 4, 2011 Medical Seminar
International Culture and
Music Festival, Chater Garden
December 11, 2011 BINGO Bash, Xmas and
Thanksgiving Party
Birthday Greetings
June / July Celebrants
Prescy Massagan
Jun 2
Julie Denio
Jul 18
Julie Ann Pilagud
Jun 6
Leony Jane Andres
Jul 20
Sheila Timiclan
Jun 13
Bing Andres
Jul 21
Sheran Camacho
Jun 15
Apollo Alfonso
Jul 21
Soraya Cadangen
Jul 3
Edna Lomerez
Jul 23
Angeline Dulagan
Jul 5
Norma Capsula
Jul 26
Lolita Obillo
Jul 6
Anita Amadeo
Jul 26
Emerson Gube
Jul 15
Benadeth Mencio
Jul 31
PMS
FNA
Mindanao Alliance
KUSOG
LEBAK
BENGFED
ANIBA-HK
Oriental Mindoro Society
Damayan
LUZFED
BSK-HK
MMWA
Contents
Upcoming Assembly of Ilocanos Association events:
October 5, 2011 CFCB
DOMOHK
Black Eagle
Calabarzon
Novo Ecijano Association
OFWIE
GOAL
LOFWA
MIGA
WOMED
FILCOMSIN
FILREFLEX
3
6
8
9
10
12
13
14
16
17
18
20
21
22
24
29
30
31
32
33
34
Editor’s Note
UCKG Mountain Prayer
Breast and Cervical Cancer Awareness Seminar
ANIBA-HK-Itogon Summer/Autumn Volleyball
At Your Service
KAPHWA Concludes Volleyball Tournament
Mga Kuwentong OFW
Legal Story
Jesus is Our Shield
AIA Induction
Snapshots
Blessings of a Father
TUCSO HK Celebrates 3rd Anniversary
PAHK Gold at Last!
Balitang Showbiz
featured Poems
Laugh Lines
FIM Outlets / Mind Games
AIDS Festival 2011 On Its 8th Year
Horoscope
Birthday Corner / Just 4 Kids
Winalite – Anion. The Sanitary Napkin with Negative Ion.
Helps you and the community.
for more info please call Feng Mendoza 9609 6871 / Mar Geron 9537 8411
Available at the following shops:
BORACAY Fresh Restaurant Wanchai Look for Ate Aggie 9143 0267
O Phoenix Remittance and Lucky Boy Internet Shop
2/F Shop 243 Worldwide House 2801 7118 / 2801 6008
MD International and Internet Shop 9/F Yat Fat Bldg. - 9537 8411
Lee Trading Tsuen Wan Liksang Plaza - 2499 5858
Mina - 6017 6340 / Francis 6427 9542 / Mike Canaria - 5199 2025
Bebeth 9342 7212 / Shirley 9841 8372
Lydias Store - Kennedy Town 9252 3049
Myrna’s Corner Shek Tong Tsui - 9374 1482, Glenda 9099 9794
Amethyst Bullion 3/F Worldwide House Shop 329 - 2147 3736
4
friends International Magazine june 2011
5
friends International Magazine june 2011
Universal Church of the Kingdom of God (UCKG)
Mountain Prayer
by Remely Valdez
“LORD, how they have increased who trouble
me! Many are they who rise up against me.
Many are they who say of me,”There is no
help for him in God.”But You, O Lord, are a
shield for me, My glory and the One who lifts
up my head. I cried to the Lord with my voice,
and He heard me from His holy hill.” (Psalm
3:1-4).
In the context of the Bible, profound
significance is given to mountains. Mountains
are altars of nature. We know that men of God,
including our Lord Jesus climbed mountains
to pray and offer sacrifices. In climbing a
mountain, people’s faith was awakened. By
climbing to the highest place, we show that we
are truly serious, about seeking God. It is our
way to demonstrate our faith.
mountain to climb, it is the mountain of
victory that we want to achieve.
God revealed Himself to Moses on a mountain
and the first to climb a mountain to erect an
altar to the Lord was Abraham. Great men
and women of faith like Hannah, Abraham,
Moses, Solomon, David, Elijah, Elisha and
even our Lord Jesus were spiritually associated
with one or more mountains.
Mountains represent success, realization and
achievement. Arriving at the top of a mountain
signifies triumph, like mountain climbers who
risk their lives merely to reach the top of a
mountain. Mountains in the Bible symbolize
victory. Every person independent of religious
belief, race, education level, sex or age has a
natural desire to overcome, to have peaceful
life and to be happy inside of him.
In the Book of Psalm 121:1 “I will lift up my
eyes to the hills, where does my help come
from?” When a person is in a valley, in a low
place, to look to the hills means he is looking
at what he wants to conquer. Generally,
mountains are solitary, desolate, empty places
that few people attempt to reach. Ascending
a mountain requires a fight, a sacrifice that a
person meets difficulties head-on.
every one were being synchronized with our
powerful God. And after the strong powerful
prayers made in the mountain, the man of
God intervene everyone to look at the sky as
the clouds was giving way to become brighter,
clearer and like a cotton or a snow which
shows that the face of Jesus was hovering up
in heaven accepting the praises and prayers of
His children..
The Universal Church of the Kingdom of
God scheduled a prayer meeting at the highest
mountain in Hong Kong, in Tai Mo Shan on
May 2, 2011. More than 450 people joined
and climbed-up in the mountain hiking prayer
meeting. The 7 coaches departed from Sheung
Wan at 10AM and arrived at around 12PM to
the prayer point at the top of the mountain.
The mountain prayer was such an amazing
experience which never be forgotten by the
true believers of God especially to the visitors
who witness the miracles of God in the life of
every person who used their faith and never
surrendered to the trials that comes their way..
Truly God is an amazing God who always
performed miracles in an unexpected time and
day of our life. What is impossible to man is
possible to God..
Powerful prayers were made for new visitors
to glorify, exalt, worship and praise God for
His undying love, kindness and blessings
He gives to us. The Lord’s Supper was also
celebrated and all the worshippers took part in
the celebration.
We are always searching for something better
in our life and it is our God who placed this
desire inside of us. Each one of us has a
6
During the prayer meeting, there was spiritual
renewal with the Holy Spirit and the unity
with same faith was strengthened. All doubts,
worries, and fears were gone as the thoughts of
friends International Magazine june 2011
7
friends International Magazine june 2011
Free Breast and Cervical Cancer
Awareness Seminar for OFWs
ANIBA-HK-ITOGON Summer-Autumn Volleyball
Tournament Opening
by Bernadette M. Benitez
After the program, the North Point committees
held a short orientation for the teams, shared
the rules and regulations of the games
tournament which was immediately followed
by 8 games.
by Chloe Belle de la Gente - Dogeno
seminars. We want continuous education and
skills training for Domestic Helpers especially
Health Awareness to all,” says LFHK.
In the 1st game Ifugao won over Neighborhood
with the scores of 25-17 and 25-20. 2nd game
Phoenix over Tictacs 25-12, 28-26. FBA
Tigers over STAR-HK with the score of 2518, 25-21. Pingad over Versatile 25-12, 25-9.
Tublay over Aniba-Itogon in three sets 25-12,
11-25, 15-10. Ifugao over Versatile 25-9, 2515, Neighborhood over Tublay 25-22, 25-19
and last game Ifugao over Itogon Aniba 2516, 25-12.
The Breast and Cervical Cancer Awareness
seminar was sponsored by Miss Inna Hung
of D’ Sun Employment Services and B & S
Travel Tours.
Committed to pursue the implementation of
its objectives in the Overseas Filipino Workers
in Hong Kong, LAS FILIPINAS HONG
KONG started their 3rd topic of seminars to the
Filipino Domestic Helpers in the territory last
05 June 2011 at Room 607, Boy’s and Girl’s
Club, Wan Chai, Hong Kong.
The Breast and Cervical Cancer Awareness
Seminar was conducted by Miss Elijah Fung,
Manager and Project Coordinator of St. John’s
Cathedral HIV Education Center, St. John’s
Cathedral, 4-6 Garden Road, Central, HK and
was jointly organized by LIFE Foundation
and LFHK. The lecture was attended by 140
Overseas Filipino Workers living and working
in Hong Kong from various Filipino Migrant
groups and individuals.
Topics during the lecture include; the data’s
and facts about breast and cervical cancer, the
symptoms, who’s at risk of the disease, stages
and treatment of the cancer, its prevention and
how to do the Breast Self Examination. Also
discussed were health providers in Hong Kong
where OFWs can seek help for examination
and medication.
A question and answer portion during the
seminar had drawn attention as many attendees
are having health worries and problems. Two
participants had come in the open having breast
lumps and Miss Anna Payawal, Founder and
Chairman of LIFE Foundation offered them
help.
LFHK first seminar to the OFWs in HK was
the Drug Safety and Drug Administration
with St. James Settlement last 09 January and
06 March, followed by Financial Literacy
Seminars with Banco De Oro, PNB, Metrobank
and TP3 in March 20, 27 and April 24, 2011.
Filipino Newspapers in the community or may
call 60907147 and 94507903 for registration.
“Although we are busy with our Livelihood
Trainings for our members, we find time to hold
“Health is our Wealth thru Sports, Faith, Unity and
Friendships” - - The group’s theme during the
opening of their volleyball tournament held
at Java Road, North Point Seaside Volleyball
Court last May 15, 2011.
It was triumphantly started with the parade of
the 22 teams namely; BAWO, Bokod, Pinoy
Rangers, Discovery Bay, D`Tigers,Extreme,
Gabriela, Ifugao, Itogon itself, Kalinga
(KAPHWA),
Neighborhood,
Partners,
Phoenix Warriors, Pingad, Sablan, Smart,
Star-HK, Tic-tacs, Tublay and Versatile
Teams.
adjudicators, Ms.Zenra Milles of Pingad,
Ms.Emalyn Beltran of The Sun (contributor)
and Mr.Garry Manaois - Assistant Coach
Itogon, all leaders of the 22 teams who joined
the tournament, Danza Filipina dancers, the
different teams, players, visitors who made the
event as success.
Our sincerest thanks also to Miss Beth Doquil,
the Discovery Bay President and the energetic
emcee during the event.
There was a competition of Best Muse won
by Ms.Tiffany Liu of Bokod Team and Best
in Cheering Competion which was also won
by Bokod team, Best in Banner won by Itogon
but being the host the group decided to pass to
the 2nd in line BAWO Team and SMART and
the Best in uniform will be announced on the
final closing of the tournament wherein the
50% during the opening and 50% throughout
the games till the closing.
The entire show was graced by our Hon.
Consul Charles Andrei Macaspac as Guest
Speaker PCG-Philippine Consulate General,
Mr. Arnold Grospe of Friends International
Magazine, Ms.Naty Manalo, President of
Benlife and Diwat Kabayan, different leaders
of the teams and organizations. In addition,
the Danza Filipina in cooperation with
Diwat Kabayan Benlife Society mesmerized
the teams and audience with their singing
and dancing performance. Ms. Angel of
Neighborhood renderd her marvelous song
and even encouraged the audience to dance.
On their 1st Year Anniversary on 17 July
2011, LFHK will again have a seminar on
Physiotherapy with St. John’s Cathedral HIV
Education Centre and LIFE Foundation.
Details of the event will be posted later on
The president of Aniba HK-Itogon Bernadette
M.Benitez and Ms. Norma Capsula, Assistant
Tresurer and the whole Aniba HK wish to
convey their profound thanks to the judges
Ms. Ligaya Macaspac, Vice President of
Las Filipinas Ms.Violeta Pascual, FilipinoFriendship Team Founder and Ms.Marsita
Singwey Chairperson BengFed. To
the
8
friends International Magazine june 2011
9
At
Your Service
By: Rolando E. Estrella
friends International Magazine june 2011
MAGTANONG PO KAYO
The author has been in the public service of the Filipino Overseas Workers in Hong Kong for the past 20 years. He gives free advice and
counsel, as well as practical solutions on employment-related problems, family matters, etc. Mr. Estrella or Brother Rolly, as most people
call him, is currently the Vice President of INSURANCE OF THE PHILIPPINE ISLANDS CO., INC. For free counseling, please
send your letters/inquiries to: AT YOUR SERVICE COLUMN, c/o Friends International Magazine, 5D Sun King Building,
580 Queen’s Road West, Hong Kong. (Attention to Bro. Rolly)
A SHREWD EMPLOYER
Dear Bro. Rolly,
I came to Hong Kong in July of 2010 and has
been working as a domestic helper for a Chinese
family.
For the first three months of my employment
until September, my salaries were paid in full.
However during the first week of October, my
employer warned me that she might be forced to
terminate the contract because she claimed they
are experiencing some financial difficulties. She
proposed that she will deduct HK$500.00 from my
monthly salary starting from my October salary and
onwards and that if I refused she will just let me
go.
Since I badly need money to support my 3
children and being a single parent, I agreed to her
verbal proposal which was not put in writing.
After a couple of weeks, I observed though that
there were no changes in the extravagant way of
living of my employer and her family. Their living
room was renovated and new marble floorings
replaced the old floor. Parties with their close friends
continued and a new car was bought to replace a
2003 Mercedes Benz.
I realized that my employer shrewdly fooled me
and instilled fear in me that I will lose my job if only
to reduce my salary.
May I seek your advice as to what steps I should
take for this injustice. Thank you, sir.
Tess DLS, Midleves
Dear Tess,
Quite clearly, your employer has violated
both immigration laws and the Employment
Ordinance pertaining to payment of wages of
a foreign domestic helper. Your employer is
paying less than what is written in the contract
of employment. If found guilty of such
offence, she is subject to criminal prosecution
the penalty of which is imprisonment and fines
and she will also be ordered to pay your back
wages which is the total amount of deductions
made from your monthly salary.
It might be difficult to prove though
such under-payment in the absence of any
document that indeed you are receiving less
than what you are supposed to receive.
And so to build an evidence, I would
propose this solution which became effective
in similar cases I handled before.
Request your employer to pay your monthly
salary by cheque for security reason telling her
that several of your friends lost their salaries to
pickpockets and therefore cheque payment is
safer than cash payment ; or request her to pay
your salary direct to your savings account in a
Hong Kong bank.
If you are paid in cheque, you can keep a
photocopy before depositing it; and if you are
paid direct to your bank account, your monthly
statement will clearly show the actual amount
10
of salaries being paid to you. Either way, you
are able to build an evidence to strengthen
your case against your shrewd employer.
Bro. Rolly
EXTRA INCOME
Dear Bro. Rolly,
I have been working for my present employer
continuously for more than four years now and
indeed our relationship has always been excellent
that I am treated like their own family member. My
monthly salary is HK$4,000.00 which is well over
the prescribed salary. Due to my employer’s desire
to help me and in appreciation of my satisfactory
performance, she voluntary asked me to work twice
a week in the flat of her sister who just moved in
from Canada for an additional monthly income of
HK$1,500 which she said will not affect our present
working and salary arrangements.
Indeed this is a blessing that I cannot refuse.
I am writing to get clarification from you because
my friends who I think are just envious of my high
salary and this new opportunity are telling me that
it is illegal for me to work for another employer. I
believe however that since my present employer has
approved of such extra job for me and considering
further that I will be working for her own relative,
then I am not in violation of any law.
Please advise.
Elena T., Sai Kung
Dear Elena,
Your friends are right and are just
concerned for you. It is illegal for a foreign
domestic helper to work for another person
other than the employer named in your visa
and the approved employment contract.
You, your employer and her sister, the
three of you, are liable to prosecution by
committing such offence. If found guilty your
employer may not be permitted to hire foreign
domestic helper anymore in the future and you
will not be permitted to take up employment
any longer in Hong Kong.
I would advise that you stick it out with
your own employer. You may show this
reply to your employer and her sister for their
guidance.
One of the main reasons for the economic
success of Hong Kong is its citizens’ strict
compliance with laws worthy of emulation
by other governments. Obey Hong Kong laws
and you stay out of trouble.
Bro. Rolly
LATE SALARY PAYMENT
I started working for my employer in February
1, 2010 and while the amount of my salary is in
accordance with law, what I would like to complain
in your column is my salary payment is always
delayed.
My first pay day was on February 28, 2010
and yet I actually received my salary ten days late
on March 8, 2010. And for the subsequent months
until November, 2010 my salaries were paid ten up
to twelve days delayed.
May I know if I have a protection against this
practice of my employer.
Lilian, Chaiwan
Dear Lilian,
Under the Employment Ordinance, the
salary of the helper should be paid within
seven days from due date of payment. In you
case, your salary is supposed to be paid at the
end of each month and up to the seventh day
of the following month.
If your employer fails to pay within the said
prescribed period, she will be required to pay
interest on the outstanding salary obligation to
you. Continuous violation of this provision by
your employer may result in prosecution the
penalty of which, if found guilty, is payment
of fine and imprisonment.
Bro. Rolly
Club Filipino HK’s Aloha Charity Bingo Bash
by APG
The Club Filipino Hong Kong held its
Charity Bingo and dinner ball at the Police
Officers Club in Causeway Bay on May 20,
2011. The members and guests attended
the event with their fabulous and elegant
Hawaiian outfit in line with the occasion’s
theme “Aloha”. It was again another lively
and colorful event for the Club.
Chairman Ody Lai, expressed her gratitude
and congratulated the committee headed by
Ms Luz Tan for the successful preparations
and good cooperation amongst the members
and officers of the association. She also
mentioned that the Club takes pride in
taking charitable cause to life. The Charity
is the second charity event of the Club this
year which started with Shanghai Knights
sometime in February. A lot of activities
and projects are lined up by the club for the
year.
Sumptuous dinner buffet followed which
was prepared for everyone. During dinner,
a rendition of Broadway performances from
Sweet Sisa Samaniego, a professional singer
in Hong Kong and the dynamic duo of Ms
Crisel Consunji and Roy Rolloda serenaded
the guests with their exceptional voices.
Aside from Charity Bingo, the association
also held the Search for Mr and Ms Aloha
Night which was won by Mr. Johar Bohol
and Ms Inna Hung respectively. Fabulous
prizes were given away to the lucky
winners.
Christine Hair &
Beauty Salon
Personalised Hair & Beauty Care
Service is our priority...
Ms. Christine
Invited guests and beauty titlists from the
Philippines personally awarded the prizes
to the winners. They are Ms Rhea Quinzon
- Ms Philppines World 2001, Ms Jean Harn
- Ms Earth 2007, Ms Sherylyn Ram - Bb
Pilinas 2002, Ms Abegail Cruz - runner up
for Bb Pilipinas 2007.
Dancers and the Worldwide Hotbabes
Dancers.
After the performances, the Charity Bingo
started and bingo cards were sold for a
hundred dollars each. Proceeds will be
given to the Japanese Red Cross for the
Tsunami Victims and to the Overseas
Filipino Workers Association.
A lot of prizes, such as iPad, cellphones,
necklace, elegant bags, stylish shirts and
many more were given away during the
bingo and raffle draws. Adding merriment
to the occasion was the coconut game, beer
drinking contest and the cake blowing of
the birthday celebrants.
After the event the group proceeded to
the Cinta J and other bars in Wan Chai to
continue the celebration and to enjoy their
expensive costumes for the night.
Recording artist, Guy Lockwood performed
a disco number and with him was his
Hollywood producer John Wilson. There
were also performances from the Oasis
Manager
Tel: 2810 0552, 9139 7480
Email: christinesillero@yahoo.com
Room 903, 9th Floor
Sunny House, 12-16
Li Yuen St. West (2nd alley-alley)
Central, Hong Kong
Business Hours:
Monday
10:00 am - 8:30 pm
Tue-Fri
9:30 am - 8:30 pm
Saturday
9:00 am - 8:30 pm
Sun & Holiday
8:30 am - 8:30 pm
friends International Magazine june 2011
11
friends International Magazine june 2011
KAPHWA Concludes Women’s Volleyball
Tournament, Celebrates Kalinga Day
by Bernadette Benitez
two of their Mayors from Kalinga witnessed
their day namely Hon. Johnny Dickpus
of Lubuagan municipality and Hon.
Mayor Johnwell Tiggangay of Tanudan
Municipality.
Both mayors reiteriated that OFWs must have
more patience and sacrifice and encouraged
everyone to have the love of God, love
of our fellowmen and congratulated the
KAPHWA members and officers for their
achievements.
The volleyball tournament sponsored by
KAPHWA ended last May 1, 2011 for its
closing championship held at Java Road
North Point.
It was eight months of sacrifice and
enjoyment blended together for the teams
and sponsors. There were 22 competing
teams. It was the Phoenix Warriors who
emerged as champions in the volleyball
games after beating D’bay in the best of five
championship.
Phoenix won in four sets with D’bay taking
the third set and outright 2nd place. The
scores were 25-23, 25-15, 19-2, 25-15. In
Bracket A, True Ball finished 3rd, after
beating Yaguis, which automatically took the
4th slot. Group B, Gabriela was the run away
winner, followed next by Ifugao, BAWO
and Pinoy Rangers respectively. In Bracket
C, D’Tigers came first while Neighborhood
took 2nd, Itogon-Aniba HK won the 3rd and
BOKOD was the 4th.
In the closing program (tournament) the
KAPHWA Kalinga Apayao HK Workers
Association presented awards for the best
player of each team. They were: Jenny
Bagangan (BAWO), Rhea (Extreme),
Fely Woods (BOKOD), Luz Macato
(Pinoy Rangers), Liza Dema-ala (D’bay),
Mayen Villanueva (D’Tigers), Gretta
Gumuwang (Ifugao),, Cay Clitar (ANIBAItogon), Adrian Pablo (Iwaztoqua), Merry
(Marturia), Liezel Cabasa (Neighborhood),
Maribel Lorenzo (Offspring), Christine
Cordero (Partners), Lotlot Mataganas
(Palawan),, In (Phoenix Warriors), Zenra
Milles (Pingad), Joan (Sadanga), Lina Dioal (Sablan), Ezzy (Tictacs), Kelly Bagasina
(True-Ball) and Beth Salvador (Yaguis).
12
The mythical 6 were Fely Langwas (Pingad)
Bebs Lacaden (True Ball) Shiela Manlastas
(Yaguis) Vilma Raymundo (Phoenix) Bhey
Ramirez (D’bay) and Shebang (Gabriela)
and the best tosser went to Shiela Manalastas,
best spiker Leah Bentijaba and Miss Grace
Aguillon was named Most Valuable Player
from the Phoenix Warriors Team.
Cultural dances were performed on the
event, several intermissions rendered by
the Rizal group, Northern Luzon Men’s
Association, Tabak Alliance with their
fascinating dance. Song by Angel Isidro
from the Neighborhood team. Community
dance was performed by the Tunnel Boys
and Spiritual Intermission was performed
by the Free Believers in Christ Fellowship.
There were also traditional presentations
that mesmerized the audience performed by
the Tanudan Group, Jumjumog-Pasil Group
and Inom-Pinukpok Group,P appanguBalbalan Group and Gabbok-Kalinga
Gangsa.
Mga Kwentong OFW
ni Violy C. Pascual
Dakilang Ama
Kung ang ina ay siya
ring
tumatayong
ama, “single parent” o “naytay” kung
turingan at dinadakilang sagad. Sa kampo
ng kalalakihan, ginagampanan ang papel
ng tatay at nanay, mas maraming alyas, ilan
ay “ander d saya”, “takusa”, “maybahay” o
“mare”.
Sa tingin ng iba, madaling gawin ng
isang ina ang magpakatatag na makayang
solohing
itaguyod ang mga anak,
samantalang napakahirap para sa isang
ama na idagdag pa ang pagiging ina.
Timbangan daw na nagsasabing mas
mahirap ng hindi hamak ang tungkulin ng
isang ina sa pamilya kumpara sa ama na tila
maghanap-pera lang ang obligasyon.
Sa mga OFW, ang lalaki ang nasa ibang
bansa, karaniwan na nagagampanan ng ina
ang pagiging “naytay” at marami pa itong
diskarte upang kumita pa ang ipinapadalang
dolyares. Sa eksenang ang ina ang umalis,
unang tatamaan ang ego ng pagkalalaki na
siyang dapat na padre de pamilya. Tampulan
ng tukso, mula sa paglalaba, pamamalantsa,
pamamalengke, pagluluto at higit sa lahat
ay ang pangangalaga sa mga anak.
Karaniwan tingin ay mababa dahilan sa
pagpapalit na siyang naging maybahay.
Bukod dito ay karamihan ay nagsisigarilyo,
umiinom ng alak at kung mahinahinang
labanan ang tawag ng laman, may
karelasyon, may malalang dagdag kung may
halo pang sugal. Kapag ni isa sa naturan
ay matuturingan ng santo, natural lang
naman dahil tao lang. Nakasanayan na ang
ganitong pananaw, ngunit maraming ama
na dakila, meron man mga kahinaan ngunit
ang pagkalinga sa mga anak ng maayos ay
tanda na ng isang ulirang ama. Sa isang
malalim na pang-unawa, dakilang ama at
asawang maituturing ang makakagampan
ng maayos sa pag-ako ng pagiging ina bukod
sa papel na ama pa.
Si Pedro na dating batang Korea, asawa ng
isang OFW sa Hong Kong ay maituturing
na magiting na ama. Natanim sa isip at
puso ang hirap na dinadanas ng mga OFW,
kung kaya’t naging maybahay man siya ng
ilang taon, mataas ang noo dahil silang
mag-asawa ang nagkakaintindihan.
sa telepono. Habang nagkakaunawaan
ng mahigpit ang relasyon ng pamilya ni
Pedro, tila kinakatuwaan buwagin ng mga
naiinggit kasama na ang mga kamag-anak o
pati kaanak. Dito nasusukat ang katapatan
ni Pedro sa kanyang pamilya. Mga kapatid
niya ang nagsusulsol na hanapan ang
sahod ng asawa o ginagawan ng masamang
kwento bakit hindi pa umuuwi ang asawa,
kinakausap ng masinsinan ang asawa at
parehong hindi bibigyan ng pansin ang
ano man makakasira sa kanilang samahan.
Mahirap mapaniwalaan ngunit may mga
natitira pang mga dakilang ama at asawa
na malayo man sa piling ng kanilang mahal
sa buhay ay natatayuan ang dapat na
kalalagyan.
MABUHAY ANG MGA DAKILANG
AMA, kung hindi ka man dakila ngayon,
may panahon ka pa upang humabol sa
iyong mga pagkukulang.
Usapan na huwag nang pansinin ang
mga pasaring, patutsada at mga tukso.
May mga dumadating na sukdulang
nakakapikong pangyayari ngunit ang
paraan ng mag-asawa ay magtawagan at
magsuportahan, bigayan ng lakas ng loob.
Nakabuti ang pagkakaroon ng computer
upang mabawasan ang malaking gastos
There were lots of Intermission presented
by CMC-Cordillera Mens Club, PCADETinikling Chapter and PCADE-Mt.Province
Association.
According to KAPHWA President Ms.Aida
Arciso the volleyball tournament was held
to raise funds for charity projects.
A week after the championship, the
KAPHWA held its KALINGA DAY at
Chater Road, Central on May 8,2011 and
The KAPHWA wish to convey their
profound gratitude to their Hon.Mayor,
sponsors, leaders of different associations, to
the performers, to Pastora Evelyn Agustin,
Mdm. Cythia Tellez spiritual messages and
everyone who made the event a success.
Get your copies now!
Your friendly consultants Yanyan and Arnold
Licence No. 352301
For enquiries, call 6090 7147
*Free FIC membership with book purchase !
For enquiries, call your friendly consultants Yanyan and Arnold.
friends International Magazine june 2011
13
friends International Magazine june 2011
Legal Matters
Guiding Light
by Bernadeth M. Benitez
by Barrister Ody A. Lai
Got questions regarding legal matters? Write us and we’ll get your
queries answered by our knowledgable columnist. Send all correspondence to Friends International Magazine by post or email.
Guidelines on Tai Lam Centre Visits
My cousin Lina who is a Domestic Helper like me
is now in custody at Tai Lam Centre for Women.
I intend to visit her soon. Please tell me how to go
there and make the visit. Can I also bring some gifts
to her? …Cindy of Shatin
Yes! Cindy you can visit Lina while in custody
at Tai Lam. But first, Lina must put your
name in the list of her authorized visitors.
Once the Tai Lam Centre approves you, then
you can visit. You can visit anytime during
visiting hours but it is limited to 15 minutes
only. Should you want to extend your visit to
maximum of 30 minutes, Lina or you must
inform in writing to the Tai Lam Centre why
you need extended visiting time. The valid
reasons are that you can only visit once every
month or 2 months, or this is the only time that
you could visit. If there are family members
of Lina from Philippines that are visiting with
you, this is a sure ground for extended the
visiting time to 30 minutes. But make sure that
these family members from Philippines are
also in the authorized visitors list of Lina.
If Lina is not yet convicted but awaiting
trial, then you can visit anytime. But if she
is already convicted, visits are limited to 2x a
month. So make sure that your visit is allowed
otherwise, you may be wasting your time
travelling to Tai Lam and then informed that
visit quota is already used up. Just imagine a
wife visiting a convicted husband in prison and
was turned away because the secret mistress of
the husband already used up the quota.
You can only bring “authorized gifts” for Lina.
There is a separate list for convicted person and
another list for those in remand awaiting trial.
Outside of this list, you will have difficulty
bringing it in. It will surely go to the trash.
The correctional department is very strict
that all items must be in accordance with the
descriptions on the list, including the brand &
label, the size, the packing, other specifications
and how often.
If you are not sure what to bring, I suggest you
call the Tai Lam Centre for Women and make
inquiry. Or next time you go, get the printed
list, yellow list for those in Remand and Blue
list for those convicted prisoners. You can also
google search Correctional Department and
download the list. There are authorized shops
where you can get the items and you can buy
from them. With an extra fee, the authorized
items can be delivered to Tai Lam Centre by
14
these authorized shops.
It is always good to give religious books and
devotional materials to Lina. It is the best time
to give her a bible if she is a Christian or a
Koran of she is a practicing Islam. All their
physical needs are being met by the correctional
department and you really do not need to give
her anything aside from the extra M & M 200
grams black or yellow packing if Lina is fond
of Chocolates; the Pop-pan crackers by Garden
225 grams for more snacks; extra lotion of
Johnson 125 ml in plastic pink bottle; Labello
Lip balm 4.8 grams in blue; Whisper sanitary
napkin 10pcs packing night slim 28 cm long
with wing, light blue packing; and more. All
these items must be in original packing and
intact complying with the necessary brand,
model, size, colour and subject to security
check and pooling before being approved and
given to Lina. If rejected, it will be thrown
away.
I suggest that you tell Lina to attend to her
emotional and spiritual needs. It is most
important to encourage her to be strong
during her time inside. Inform her that there
is a full-time Chaplain who co-ordinates the
planning and provision of religious services in
prisons and there should be religious activities
and events inside Tai Lam Centre. There are
number of volunteer chaplains or Christian
workers who visit and conduct services for
prisoners and inmates. Many volunteers and
non-government organizations also provide a
wide range of spiritual and social services in
institutions. They will pray over Lina, listen to
her pleadings, cheer her up and to assure her
stand up to God’s admonitions and start a new
chapter of life.
Lina should be made aware that there are
also Medical Services in the Correctional
Institutions. Primary medical services are
provided in all institutions and for more
serious and complicated needs, Lina will be
referred to various for treatments. All persons
upon admission will undergo a physical
examination by a medical officer. Those
suffering from drug withdrawal symptoms are
detoxified in an institutional hospital. Persons
requiring intensive medical care or specialist
consultation are referred to public hospitals
for treatment.
The address is 110 Tai Lam Chung Road,
Tuen Mun. Visit Room and Visitors’ Waiting
Room inside the Centre are designated as
non-smoking areas. Smoking is prohibited in
the Visit Room and Visitors’ Waiting Room.
Official visits by legal representatives are
booked in advance and must follow protocols.
Your visit is classified as social and the
procedures are as above.
Social Visiting Hours
1. Convicted Prisoners (except Cat. A Prisoners) & DATC Inmates:
Registration Time: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (Daily)
Visiting Time:
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (Daily)
2. Remands (except Cat. A Remands):
Registration Time: 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Daily)
Visiting Time:
2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Daily)
3. Cat. A Prisoners / Remands:
Registration Time: 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Daily)
Visiting Time:
3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Daily)
Basic Information How to get there
1. Kowloon Motor Bus No. 53 from Tsuen Wan Nina Tower. (Alight at Tai Lam Chung Bus Stop)
2. Kowloon Motor Bus No. 61M from Lai King (North). (Alight at Tai Lam Chung Bus Stop)
3. Kowloon Motor Bus No. 52X from Shum Shui Po (Yen Chow Street). (Alight at Tai Lam Chung
Bus Stop)
4. Harbour Tunnel Bus No. 962 from Causeway Bay. (Alight at Tai Lam Chung Bus Stop)
5. LRT Feeder Bus No. K51 from Fu Tai Estate, Tuen Mun. (Alight at Tai Lam Chung Bus Stop)
6. Green Mini-Bus No. 43B from Sun Hui Market, Tuen Mun.
Telephone Enquiries
Visit Enquiries / Booking for Official Visit
Tel. 2440 5669 - Daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Rehabilitation Unit (Programme)
Tel. 2440 5626 - Daily from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Control Room ()
Tel. 2450 8214 - Daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Father’s Prayer
Father God, Please
help all the Fathers to
the great privilege and great responsibility
which you have given to them. Help them
to be the great example and a friend to
their children and a real partner to their
wives.
our creator last March 27, 2011.
P.S On behalf of the Maingpis Family, we
would like to express our greatest gratitude to all
our relatives, friends, acquaintances, ministries,
prayer leaders and religious community who
helped us during our time of grief and need.
To the Friends International Magazine Editor
Mr. Arnold Grospe, Benguet Federation, Las
Filipinas Hong Kong, Mr. & Mrs. Johnny Ho,
my employer, Aniba HK and individuals & to
Ms. Remely Valdez for prayers and comforting
words.
Don’t let them get busy with work and
with outside things that they`re almost a
stranger in their own home and that they
take no interest in household things. Dont
let them take for granted all that is done
for them and help them to keep LOVE
alive within home.Keep them from habits
which make the work of house harder
and from ways which irritate and annoy
or which get on the nerves of those who
live with them.
Give them health and strength and work
to do to earn a living for those who depend
on them and whom love so much, but
them to remember that LOVE is always
more important than money.
LORD JESUS, look with Mercy and Love
upon our Father, Enlighten us for we may
realize the depth of His LOVE for us and
the sacrifices for us. His Fatherly care
reflects your Goodness. His manliness,
your strength, his understanding, your
wisdom. He is your faithful servant and
image. Bless him with Peace of Soul.
Protect all Fathers from all dangers, bless
all their endeavors and keep them in the
Spirit of LOVE, PEACE & HAPPINES.
----Happy Fathers Day to ALL fathers and to my
Father Dad Antero K. Maingpis who joined
friends International Magazine june 2011
15
friends International Magazine june 2011
It Is the Father Who Makes the Difference
by Apostle Renato D. Carillo / ORAS NG HIMALA staff
O
ne day as I woke
up, I noticed that
my mobile phone was
loaded with plenty of text messages. When I
read the messages, I was reminded that it was
father’s day. The messages inspired me a lot.
I never knew where and when did fathers’
day started. However, it reminded me of my
responsibilities, privileges and honor of being
a father. Indeed, Father’s day is a blessing
to all of us as fathers. In fact, whether we
celebrate father’s day or not, we as fathers
need to understand that we have to stand up
firm and take our responsibility as fathers.
Our Father God revealed Himself to us as
an ever loving Father. He revealed Himself
to us so that we will realize and understand
our responsibilities as a father. We need to
understand this truth otherwise; our children
would not feel our love as a father to them.
This principle is not only true to a father’s
life but it is also applicable to everyone who
longs for a father’s love.
I have learned to be a good father though I
grew up without a biological father because
he was taken by the Lord when I was still
5 years old. However, my heart’s desire to
take my responsibility as a father is indeed
great. I have never tried to escape from my
responsibility especially after I was being
saved and become a father though I grew
up without a father who should guide me
and taught me how to be a responsible
father. I may not have experience the love
of a biological father but our great Heavenly
Father’s love and care were more than
enough. And because of this truth, I have
learned to become a good father. Though I
never have a chance to learn from an earthly
father but I take the responsibility as a father
wholeheartedly.
Many homes were broken because the father
did not really take his own responsibility.
Others simply sigh, “I am not an effective
father because I grew up without a biological
father, “I came from a broken family”, “My
father left me when I was a child, so I never
learn how to handle a family effectively.”
However, some of them may not intend to
neglect their responsibility as a father because
of many reasons.
It maybe true that some fathers did not have
the chance to learn from their biological
fathers but if they would just look at our
heavenly Father, then they would surely have
learned and succeed. The issue of being a
successful father does not particularly base
on whether someone taught you or none
at all, but it is a matter of taking your own
16
responsibility as a father.
Back in the Paradise, we knew that it was
Adam who was created first and was given the
responsibility, authority and accountability
not Eve. The responsibility was on the
hands of Adam. Eve had only shared the
responsibility as they became one as a couple.
It was Adam who received the command to
take care of God’s creation. He should have
guarded his wife but then we knew that he
failed to do so. And because of that, the
whole humanity suffered the consequences.
We see how important a father’s decision
is, otherwise many will suffer. In fact,
fatherhood is not an easy task. It takes a lot
of courage and perseverance as we take up
this great responsibility especially during the
times wherein our children begin to grow
older and begin to make decision for their
lives. It is not easy to be a father yet we need
to stand as a responsible father. As we take
our responsibility as a father, we should never
look to our shortcomings rather we have to
fix our eyes unto our loving heavenly Father
who gives us abundant grace and capability
that enable us to become a successful father.
In every home’s success or failure, life
or death, abundance or scarcity, health
or sickness … the father is the key to a
successful family life. Indeed, it is not easy
to be a father yet it is a great privilege to be
one. Thus, children should always be grateful
to their father just as we are always grateful
to our loving heavenly father who gives us all
success.
As a father, we ought to take our own
responsibility wholeheartedly. We should
never blame anyone neither our spouse
whenever we encounter family problem.We
cannot even blame the mother even if they
are not around to take care of our household
especially if they are working abroad.Why?
The big responsibility always lies in the hands
of the father. We should never forget that it is
the father who always makes the difference at
home. The difference that we make at home
has an eternal impact. It affects not only to
our family but also in our community, our
country and the world as a whole.
Let us bear in mind that the success of every
family lies in the hands of a father.
Pray this prayer:
“Father God, I don’t want to go to hell. I
realized that I am a sinner, that I cannot save
myself. I need a Savior right now. I humble
myself to you and confess all my sins I’ve
committed. Please forgive me for all my sins
and also the sins of my forefathers. Forgive
me for worshipping, bowing, praying, and
asking help from idols and carved images.
It was wrong and it is a great sin against
you. Forgive me for gambling, smoking,
committing adultery, fornication, telling lies,
deceiving people, taking prohibited drugs.
Forgive me for negative thoughts, words and
deeds. Forgive me for watching pornographic
film, posters and magazines. Forgive me for
getting counterfeit power from satan through
hypnotism, witchcraft, sorcery, black magic.
Forgive me for hatred, resentment, selfpity, envy, jealousy, bitterness, loneliness,
weariness and pride. Forgive me Father and
my ancestors for worshipping to idols and
carved images. I now forgive those who
sinned against me, including my parents,
brothers, sisters, relatives and even myself. I
want to be changed.
Lord Jesus, I now give my life to you. I accept
you as my Lord Jesus, my Savior and my
Healer. Come into my life and reign into my
heart. Thank you Lord Jesus for what you
have done at the cross of Calvary for me, for
my family and for the world. I love you and
I will obey you. I will never disappoint you.
Amen.
*****
You are welcome to attend our!
Induction of Assembly of Ilocano Associations
The new set of officers for AIA were inducted
at Empire Hotel in Wanchai on June 6, 2011.
They also presented their candidates for the
AIA’s program to be held on October 5, 2011
for their Cultural Festival at Chater Garden.
The officers were sworn in before Barrister
Ody Lai who also celebrated her Birthday on
the said occasion.
The AIA’s theme is “Pass the kindness thru
good leadership. Nurture, educate leaders
that is beneficial to everyone”. Perpective to
change, bigger issues, take on more aggressive
events and opportunities, overcome fear to
bigger challenges (quote from Mdme Ody).
was serenaded by Ms. Lowelin Addn. where
she sang an Ilocano birthday song PadaPada”.
Intermission numbers were presented by
UMCA, ISAFOWA
Upcoming events: Sept. 4, 2011 - Medical
Seminar, October 5, 2011 - International
Culture and Music Festival, Chater Garden,
Dec. 11, 2011 - BINGO Bash, Xmas and
Thanksgiving Party.
An Ilocano song with waltz and flowers were
offered to Mdme Ody for her birthday She
Distinguished guests of the said event were
Madam Neena Pushkarna, DAB Committee
of Yao Tsim Mong District Council. She is the
one responsible for inviting the group in any
Hong Kong event to perform cultural dances.
The group has already performed in Yao
Tsim Mon, Yuen Long, Tsim Sha Tsui and
other programs organized by the Democratic
Alliance for the Betterment of Hong Kong
(DAB) “Ethnic Minorities Show”.
Mr. Alex Tsui, a civil servant, who fights to
allow Foreign Domestic Helpers to become
permanent residents after 7 years stay in
Hong Kong, equality of Law regardless of
nationality.
SATURDAY SERVICE
PRAYER MEETING: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
& 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
SUNDAY SERVICE
PRAYER MEETING: 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Flat A-1, 14/F #30-30-A Vincent House,
Jordan Rd. Kowloon, Hong Kong
(MTR Exit-A)
CONTACT NUMBERS: (852) 94678565
FOR PRAYER AND COUNSELING:
Write to:
APOSTLE RENATO D. CARILLO
P.O. Box 40, Araneta Center
Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines
Call/Txt (in the Philippines):
9866498/09128343467
Email address: apostle_carillo@yahoo.com
Log on to: www.miraclehour.com
Special guests were: Mr. Baba Guzom - Smart
Marketing Manager, Ms. Carina Roncesvalles
- Reporter Hong Kong News, Ms. Amstrada
Bilag - President, Cervantes Migrant Workers
Association, Mr. Ramon Dizon - President,
2nd District Ilocos Sur Association, Writer
the Sun newspaper, Ms. Arlene Abrugar Chief Editor, One Journey Magazine, Ms.
Connie Sampilo - President International
Ladies Association HK, Ms. Virgie Buen
- President Bacnotan La Union, Mr. Renjo
Ramos - Chairman, Utol, Mr. Al Daduya Utol, President, Mr. Jun Pastor - Chairman,
Samahang Ilocano, Mr. Freddie Saldivar
- Samahang Ilocano Governor, Mr. Jerry
Brillanes
- President, Samahang Ilocano
Central, Ms. Fatima Tuale - Ms. Fitness and
Mr. Francois Vanden.
friends International Magazine june 2011
17
friends International Magazine june 2011
Do you want your photos on this page? Group pictures, special gatherings, association activities are most welcome. Send them to us by post or email and you just might find
yourself in our next issue.
18
friends International Magazine june 2011
. . . friends snapshots
19
friends International Magazine june 2011
TUCSO-HK Celebrates 3rd Anniversary
Blessings of a Father
by Cleofe Mendoza
by Bishop. Eddie Villanueva
The greeting cards are out – so are the shirts,
the mugs, the posters, the caps, the key chains
that honor the “World’s Greatest Dad!” Yes.
It’s the time of year again when a father feels
great to be one.
This year’s Father Day celebration is an especially poignant occasion one
for me because this year also marks my 40 blessed and blissful wedded
years to my better half, Dory. It is because of my loving wife that I share
with the rest of the world the joy of being a father. Surely, I know of no
greater joy than receiving from our gracious Abba, our wondrous Lord
the blessing of my four beloved children, my heritage and great reward
(Psalms 127:3-5 ESV).
My 39 years of fatherhood has taught me that it is one serious business. Unlike an ordinary day job that runs from 8am-5pm, fatherhood is a 24hour, 7-day-a-week commitment – with guaranteed NO sick leaves. And
now that I am a delightfully happy grandpa too, I have never stopped
being a father to my grandchildren’s parents. Essentially, therefore, a
father is into it for life. While fatherhood may be a daunting task, fathers are not without help
and an example to follow. Our Lord Jesus Himself pointed us to “Our
Father in heaven” in Whom we may always call.
Matthew 6 does not only point us to the “how” of praying, it also
introduces us to the loving Father who is always available to come to our
aid.
Give us today our daily bread. Our Heavenly Father provides. The Maker
of heaven and earth is mindful of His children. “Look at the birds of the
air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly
Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” (Matthew
6:26). an elementary grade 3 public school for the
repair of their leaking roof and one secondary
school for provisions of sports materials/
facilities.
example we leave with our children is worth imitating. Out of the good
comes the good. When we keep this as a standard for our daily living, we
can rest assured that we are raising up generations of godly children after
us.
Deliver us from the evil one. Our Heavenly Father protects. He is
“A father of the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in His holy
habitation”(Psalm 68:5). “Blessed are those who have regard for the
weak; the LORD delivers them in times of trouble. The LORD protects and
preserves them — they are counted among the blessed in the land — he
does not give them over to the desire of their foes. The LORD sustains
them on their sickbed and restores them from their bed of illness” (Psalm
41:1-3).
As surely as we have a Heavenly Father who is protective of His children,
earthly fathers must always be the family’s chief protector too. Our
authority in the family is delegated to us to guarantee that our family is
safe at all times. It must run counter to our nature to use our authority to
do anything that will hurt our wife and children. We keep them from evil.
We do them no harm.
Fatherhood is gift. While it is vested with many blessings, it is also
coupled with many responsibilities. I pray for all the earthly fathers, may
we be found faithful stewards of this God-given opportunity to become
to our family as He is to us. Happy Father’s Day, Abba! Happy Father’s Day to all the Dads all over the
world!
LEE Trading
On the flipside, this is a good reminder to earthly fathers too. With the
gift of children comes the responsibility to provide for them also. And the
very impetus that should propel us to work is our very love for our family.
As we work to provide for them, we must not neglect to look after them. One without the other is not enough.
Time passes by, associations come and
go, but TUCSO-HK is still here, up and
running in organizing events. The group is
on its 3rd year of existence; organized last
2008 with the intention of giving assistance
to its members and raising funds for projects
in their hometown, City of San Fernando, La
Union, they have so far given financial support
to 14 barangay chapels, school grants to at
least 89 active members and have funded
the school canteen of the Special Education
School which caters to special kids. And it
doesnt stop there.
In celebration of their 3rd year anniversary
last May 29, 2011 at Sai Ying Pun
Community Complex, they made way for
a popularity contest, in which 8 members
became candidates with age brackets; below
40 years of age and above 40 years old. They
competed for the title Mrs. Tucso-HK 2011
and Mother of The Year 2011.
Forgive us our debts. Our Heavenly Father loves unconditionally. He
forgives us of our sins that we may have the grace to forgive those who
sin against us. His love that is abounding in us makes us do the right
things, even the difficult ones.
As hard as fathers try to keep our children on safe ground however, there
will inevitably be forks and bumps on the road that may keep our children
off their track. What do we do when they get astray and stumble and
fall? We do not cast them off. Like the loving Father of the prodigal son,
we patiently wait for their return and gladly welcome them back home
(Luke 15:11-31).
We should not take it against ourselves when our children do things their
way. They have their own freewill hence they act on their own volition.
The best that we can do for them is to lead them and guide them in the
way they should go, and pray that they won’t depart from it when they
grow up (Proverbs 22:6). When they get their hearts broken because of
their wrong choices and decisions, we must be there to pick up the pieces
and help them stand on solid ground once more.
Lead us not into temptation. Our Heavenly Father guides. He is a
Shepherd who guides His people as His flock and leads them to safe and
rich pastures (Psalm 23). His plans and purposes for His children are all
for good (Jeremiah 29:11).
As earthly fathers, we must take it upon ourselves to make sure that the
20
Wholesale & Retail any kind of phone card:
Smart & Globe SIM card
Smart & Globe reload, Cellphone & Computer Accessories
MP3, MP4 & download, Fashionable RTW and bags
Fair & Lovely Cream, Anion Napkin with Negative Ion
Call us on 2499 5858
Shop 279, 2/F Lik Sang Plaza, Tsuen Wan, N.T.
Advertise with
Friends International Magazine
call 5182 5569
Minor awards were also given for Best
in Production Number to the tune of
Mambo No. 5; donning their strict features
and accessories in Best in Teacher Attire; a
different performance in the Best in Talent
in which they portrayed loveteams in eras of
Philippine television like Guy and Pip, Edgar
Mortiz and Vilma Santos, Pops and Martin,
Sheryl Cruz and Romnick, Sharon and
Gabby, Regine and Ogie and Manilyn and
Jannno. They walked with glamour and style
in the Best in Evening gown category. Adding
merriment, fun, jeers and laughter to the
event was the Battle of Impersonators with
8 associations competing and the Shembot
Dance showdown with 4 groups from La
Union as contestants.
For all the events of TUCSO-HK, city
government officials are always present to
grace the occasion. On this anniversary alone,
City Councilors Jojo de Guzman, Ramon
Laudencia and Marylin Jucar made Hong
Kong their stop-over coming from Singapore
before going back to the Philippines. Mdme
Cathy Franco, the Provincial budget officer of
La Union came all the way from Manila in the
morning, attended the event in the afternoon
and went back home in the evening.
As a gesture of solidarity and camaraderie, the
induction of Santol Association and Social
Services, from one of the towns of La Union,
was also included and presented during the
event. The mayor of Santol, Mdme Daisy
Olivar, was the inducting officer and she
pledges support and financial assistance for
the group’s upcoming projects. Guest speaker Vice Consul Charles Macaspac, also gave an
encouraging and meaningful message to the
attendees.
The president of the group for three years,
Feng Mendoza, is looking forward that
TUCSO-HK will continue to excel and
adhere to their principle of goodness and
service to the filipino community; even when
she will no longer be at helm.
Mrs. Tucso HK 2011Mrs.Marina Agodilla
1st Runner-up
Mrs. Chandarella Belen
2nd Runner-up
Mrs. Arlene Valdez
Mrs. Rizalena Solis
3rd Runner-up
Mother of the Year Ursula Teresita Andrada
1st Runner-up
Brenda Ducusin
2nd Runner-up
Elena Balanon
Remedios Espenilla
3rd Runner-up
Shembot Dance Showdown
Champion Annak ti Naguilian Assn
1st place The Original Bauang Overseas Workers Assn
2nd place Santol Assn and Social Services
3rd place Bauang Overseas Workers Assn
Through all these three years, they have
been very supportive to the aspirations and
goals of the association. Not to forget the
numerous sponsors and donors who have
been generously extending their resources to
make their projects possible and feasible. The
beneficiaries of this event are two schools,
friends International Magazine june 2011
Battle of Impersonators
Champion Kenjie aka Justin Beiber
(KABISIG)
1st place Jennifer Elebarin aka Pokwang
(KABISIG)
2nd place Linda Tavas aka Angelica Jones
(AMWA)
3rd place Basilisa Foronda aka Tina Turner
(BOWAHK)
21
friends International Magazine june 2011
PAHK Gold at Last
BSK-HK Glitz & Glamour on Center Stage
by APG
by Violy C. Pascual
Consul General Claro S. Cristobal and PAHK Chairperson Jhell
Palomaria led the Philippine Association of Hong Kong’s celebration
of its 50 years of existence as a Filipino socialized group and an
incorporated organization which is composed of the Filipino
businessmen and expatriates in Hong Kong which began in 1961.
The program started with a cocktail party and ribbon cutting ceremony
at 7:00 PM, which was followed by the messages and presentation of
the Team PAHK 2011 Board of Directors and their past and upcoming
projects. A video presentation of the Gawad Kalinga project of PAHK
was also presented during Dinner.
There were lots of raffle draws and big prizes were given away to guests
as part of the charity ticket which was sold during the event. The
famous paintings of Buds Convocar and Roel Obemio entitled “Quest
for Gold” was also auctioned for the charity project of PAHK.
It has been a tradition for PAHK to host a charity ball to commemorate
the Philippine Independence Day which is regularly held at the Conrad
Hotel in Admiralty. This year’s event was held on June 11, 2011.
Vice Chair Myrna Hill and the Team PAHK 2011 invited popular
Kapuso Stars from the Philippines. The Andres De Saya female lead
Iza Calzado and Sinner or Saint actor Dennis Trillo were among the
performers who rendered special songs in celebration of the 50th
Anniversary.
Meanwhile, professional Filipino performers Crisel Consunji and Roy
Rolloda who was part of the opening team of Disneyland were also
invited to perform together with Ms Anna Liza Zialcita and Steven
Singco Conde.
The Hong Kong Musician’s Union were also invited to complete the
entertainment and dancing mood for the PAHK Gala dinner and
Charity Ball. A surprise award and recognition were also given to the
former Chairmen of the association followed by the cutting of the 50th
anniversary cake headed by Consul General Cristobal and Chairman
Palomaria alongside the other members of the PAHK board.
Balikatan sa Kaunlaran-Hong Kong Council
(BSK-HK) in cooperation with Asian Talents
Circle, launched their livelihood products with
a showcase of Craftsmanshift, Style & Beauty
Search for “Ginang and Binibining BSK-HK”
among their 24 association members, held at
Chater Rd. on May 22, 2011.
Heavy rains in the morning did not even lessen
the will of the BSK family, headed by Ching
Baltazar, their unstoppable iron leader.
Graduation of 249 trainees of Beads Craft,
Ribbon Folding, Fashion Accessories, Food
Processing & Bag Making (newspaper).
Rowena L. Morales, Akeanon Assn.
representative was crowned Ginang BSKHK and Best in Filipiniana Attire. Joining
BSK to learn different livelihood programs
and hesitantly accepting to be a candidate
to support BSK exposde their glamourous
products, Rowena did not expect to get the top
trophy.
Shirley R. Fabico, named Ginang BSK-HK
1st runner-up and Best in Production. 2nd
runner-up goes to Lolita G. Soriano. Best in
Casual Wear taken by Maryson A. Medina,
from Enrile-HK Workers Assn.and Best
in Executive Attire given to Celeste Sotelo
Valledor from Filipino Friendship Team/
Pinay Volunteer Team.
Thelma Gonzalez was named Binibining
BSK-HK and Best in Executive Attire. Joylyn
Zausa, 1st runner-up and Best in Casual Wear.
Jelica Martinez- 2nd runner-up. Dorothy C.
Monta, 3rd runner-up and Best in Production.
Ronalyn Romero was the favorite of the judges
wearing the Bridal Gown.
Hon. Consul General Claro S. Cristobal,
special guest speaker, praised the group’s
livelihood re-integration programs. Outgoing
Labor Attache, Romulo Salud, saluted the
trainings as preparation going home for good.
More than 500 PAHK members and their partners, guests, sponsors and
members of the Consular office of the Philippine Consulate attended
the anniversary celebration.
The program was hosted by actress Iza Calzado and veteran Actor/
Director Eric Quizon.
Congressman Joseph Victor Ejercito, a strong
supporter of the group made way to attend
the event. He emphasized his sympathy to
OFWs, commonly referred to as “Mga Bagong
Bayani” but are denied many benefits, legal
assistance, to name a few because of decrease
in the allocated OFW funds, from 100 million
down to 30 million lately. He mentioned that
without OFW remittances, the economy
collapses. BSK-HK giving different livelihood
trainings is a good example of self motivation
and improvement, he comments.
Prime sponsor, Salex HEART Foundation
(Helping, Educating, Assisting and Reachingout Together) a family oriented loving group
were present as well.
22
friends International Magazine june 2011
Receive a special gift
for every 100 pcs purchase
of assorted lotion and cosmetics
Flexibest International
Marketing Company Ltd.
Prosperity Millennia Plaza
663 Kings Road, North Point Hong Kong
Email: flexi2010@yahoo.com
Tel. 9612 0411 (Cathy Lo) / 9377 7114 (Ms. Jean)
23
friends International Magazine june 2011
Balitang Showbiz
ni Noel Asinas
Phil, sobrang concern sa pagiging
workaholic ni Angel!
KAHIT wala lagi si Phil Younghusband sa tabi ni Angel Locsin, sobrang concern ang
athlete, ngayo’y endorser ng bagong energy drink, Vitwater Power, dahil sa alam
niyang workaholic si Angel sa araw-araw nitong trabaho.
Tulad ni Angel, workaholic din Phil sa pagdating sa pagti-training ng football. Bukod
sa actual training niya sa laro, nagsasagawa pa siya ng personal clinic para sa mga
batang ibig maging football player.
Ani Phil: “Madalas kong sabihin kay Angel na very careful siya sa kanyang health.
Laging magpahinga kung kinakailangan. Iwas sa sakit.”
Nabiro tuloy si Phil ng mga reporter kung magbibigay ba siya ng libreng Vitwater
Power kay Angel pala laging malakas. Tumawa si Phil at sabay sabing: “Siempre!”
Tungkol sa relationship ni Phil kay Angel, nasabi ng athlete na walang pagbabago sa
kanilang dalawa ng actress. Very strong pa ang tinuran ni Phil sa kanilang relasyon.
Ang presscon ng Vitwater ay idinaan sa Philippine Movie Press Club. Member kami ng
club kaya kami naimbitahan. Pero, ang affair ay binubuo ng iba’t ibang grupo ng press.
Kabilang dito ang entertainement, sports at life style writers.Nakipaglaro si Phil sa mga
press people na dumating. May dala siyang football ball. Bukod pa rito nagturo si Phil
ng tamang pagsipa ng bola. Gayundin ang tamang pagpalo ng tennis racket.
Sinabi ni Phil na paaalis ang Azkals ngayong June para magtraining ng isang buwan
sa Germany. Ito’y paghahanda sa mg internatioanl competitions na kanilang
sasalihan. Walang panahon si Phil sa ibang activities niya ngayon dahil kumakain
ng mahabang oras ang training niya sa fooball. Imagine magsisimula siyang maglaro at 7am at matatapos ng 10 pm.
Siyempre may break siya rito para kumain at iba pang personal activities.
Ang personal life niya at ng kanyang kapatid na player din ay nakatutok sa football. Ang relaxation lang ni Phil ay
makipagbonding sa kanyang pamilya. Kahit nga pagbisita kay Angel ay di niya magawa ng madalas dahil super busy siya
ngayon sa football. Happy na si Phil na makausap man lang sa si Angel sa araw-araw kahit sa cellphone lang.
KAHIT binago ang titulo ng Sentensiyada at naging
Sinner or Saint, si Bianca King pa rin ang pinakalead character sa babae.
Siyempre, kasama niya ang leading man niyang si
Dennis Trillo at ang co-star niyang si Alessandra de
Rossi. O, yes, nagbabalik GMA 7 si Alex. Pero, sa
pagbabalik niya ay nakapirma na siya ng kontrata
sa network.
Para kay Bianca, malakaing pagsubok sa kanya
bilang actress na bigyan ng isang solo lead sa isang
afternoon soap. After 7 years, pinagkatiwalaan na
siya ng network na bigyan ng ganitong kabigat ng
role. Sadyang pinaghandaan ni Bianca ang role.
Bukod pa sa dumaan din sa workshop ang actress
para nasabing soap.
Maalam na nang husto sa acting si Bianca, ang
laki na ng improvements niya. Hasang-hasa na
siya sa acting kaya wala nang mahihiling pa ang
GMA production team na ibingay na ang Bianca
ang title role ng show.
Wally at Jose isinama ni Vic Sotto
sa RU Kidding Me?
HALATANG malaki ang kumpiyansa ni Boss Vic Sotto sa dalawa niyang kasama sa
Eat Bulaga na sina Jose Manalo at Wally Bayola. Kasi, dinala pa rin niya ito sa bago
niyang show, ang RU Kidding Me! Ng TV 5 na mapapanood tuwing Sabado ng gabi.
Kasi, ang game show ay kailangan ang dalawang comedians na kasama ni Vic. Yung
makikipagbatuhan sa kanya ng patawa habang naghu-host ng isang mala-trivia
game show nakailangan ang tamang sagot na hango sa very reliable surveys ng mga
writers ng programa.
Naa-alaala ni Roderick ang kanyang
role na batang laging api
Pagdating sa pagpapatawa, wala nang hihigit
pa sa tandem ngayon nina Jose at Wally na mapapanood sa Eat Bulaga sa kanilang
paglilibot sa iba’t ibang lugar para pasayin ang mga televiewers ng show.
TAMA lang gampanan ni Roderick Paulate (Manny) ang isang bading na teacher na may
malalim na prinsipyo sa buhay sa soap na Munting Heredera. Kasi, ang bida sa soap na si
Mona Louise Rey ay talagang believable na kaawaan dahil very angelic ang kanyang face.
Siya si Jennifer sa istorya.. Si Roderick noong child actor ay laging inaapi rin. Kaya alam na
alam ni Roderick ang role na pinagdadaaan ni Jennifer.
Sa bagong contest ay may 100 contestants na mag-uunahan na wag di makasagot
sa mga katanungang sasabihin ni Boss Vic. Sasagot si Jose ng mga kasagutan at
tanong na nagpapatawa, gayon din si Wally. Pati si Boss Vic.
Ang Munting Heredera ngayon ang no.1 soap ng GMA 7 sa prime time. Mas nadaig pa
niya ang mga soap ng network sa ratings game ang Amaya at Captain Barbell. Umungos
na rin ang Munting Heredera sa kalabang programa sa ABS-CBN, tulad ng Mara Clara. Ang
balitang ito ay mula sa corporate office ng GMA 7 na mula sa kanilang research group.
24
Bianca King hindi na matitinag sa pagiging bida
ng Sinner or Saint
Ang gagawin ng studio contestants ay piliin sa tatlo kung ano ang tamang
sagot. Minsang ka lang magkamali ay emininated ka na sa contest. Pero, may
pagkakataon ka muling sumali kung walang makatama ng sagot. Back to zero,
pero bawa ng P100 thousand cash na premyo. Exciting dahil may tatlong kulay na
lalabas sa bawat booth ng contestants.
friends International Magazine june 2011
25
friends International Magazine june 2011
Zoren at Carmina, lilipat ba ng
Kapatid Network?
LILIPAT na kaya ang mag-asawang Zoren Legaspi at Carmina Villarroel sa
Kapatid Network?
Bale ito ang ugung-ugong ngayon pagkatapos na mag guest co-host si
Zoren sa Paparazzi show nina Ruffa Gutierrez at Cristy Fermin. Doon ay
point blank na itinanong ni Cristy kung malapit na bang maging Kapatid
ang mag-asawa.
Sa sagot ni Zoren, walang concrete answer ang actor/ director, bagkus,
sinabi niya lang na wala siyang contract na alinman sa GMA 7 AT ABS-CBN
2, si Carmina ay matatapos na ang contract sa GMA 7 ngayon .
TUWIRAN nang sinabi ni Zoren Legaspi na hindi nila nararamdaman ni
Carmina Villarroel na hindi pa sila kasal. Feeling nilang dalawa lagi na sila
ay binded na bilang mag-asawa.
Kaya sa madalas na itatanong sa kanila na kung kalian sila ikakasal, lagging
sinasabi ni Zoren na abangan na lang. Di raw totoo na kaya di natutuloy
ang kasal nila ni Carmina ay dahil kuripot siya, talagang wala pa raw
contrete plans para rito.
Nasabi ni Zoren lahat ang hinggil sa mga issue sa kanila ni Carmina nang magguest co-host siya sa Paparazzi , kahapon,
Sunday, sa TV 5’ na talagang hasang-hasa na si Zoren sa live hosting ng shows.
Child star Angeli Nicole, mahusay
umarte sa Magic Palayok
MAGALING talaga ang batang si Angeli Nicole Sanoy dahil sa puede niyang paibaibahin ang kanyang damdamin sa Magic Palayok na patok sa viewers. Mahaba ang
pinaghihigitang damdamin ni Angeli kaya naibiibigay niya ang emosyon.
Ani Angeli: “Iniisip
ko lang po ang aking
mother at mga kapatid
kapag ako umiiyak, Kapag naman Masaya ako ay naiisip
ko ang masayang pamilya naming”
Ngayon ay nagkakasama na si Cookie (Angeli) at
tatay niya na si Romnick Sarmenta dahil sa ibinigay
niyang medicine. Muling bumalik na pag-iisip. Pero,
winalanghiya naman ni Cherie Gil sa pagbibigay ng love
potion kaya na in love sa kanya si Romnick.
Hong Kong Philippine Consulate General Activities
for RIZAL@150
The public is invited to participate in the activities lined
up by the Philippine Consulate General on 19 June 2011
to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Philippine National Hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal, who lived in Hong
Kong for 6 months from 1891 to 1892.
Nasanay si Zoren sa hosting nang magsama sila ni Carmina sa programang Love ni Mister, Love ni Misis sa GMA 7.
Bukod pa rito ay naghosting pa si Zoren ng cooking show na pimamagatang Battle of The Chef na tumagal ng ilang
seasons din sa dating QTV 11, now GMA News TV, Channel 11.
Ani Zoren: “Masaya kami pareho ni Carmina sa tulong na pagpapalaki ng kambal. Wala kaming problemang magasawa, kundi some petty differences dahil burara ako sa gamit ko. “Si Carmina naman ay deadma sa anumang issue na
kinaharap nilang dalawa. Kasi, busy siya sa araw-araw na schedule.” Katulad din na nagging deadma si Carmina hinggil
sa pagpapalit ng sexual preference ng dating asawa niyang si Rustom Padilla. Naging BB Gandang hari si Rustom
ngayon.
The University of the Philippines Alumni Association and
Lakbay Dangal will lead a hike from Hong Kong Park
Olympic Square to Victoria Peak starting at 7:30 am.
Enroute from the Peak, Lakbay Dangal will be giving a
historical walking tour of Dr. Rizal’s daily route from his
residence in Rednaxela Terrace to his clinic on D’Aguilar
Street, which have both been marked with commemorative plaques by the Hong Kong Antiquities Authority.
Wreath-laying ceremonies will be held at these sites.
Pero, para kay Zoren, pareho nilang iginagalang si BB Gandanghari. Tawag
pa nga niya kay Zoren ngayon ay Madam BB.
SAMANTALA, nasabi ni Zoren Legaspi hinggil sa latest issue na
kinasangkutan ni Carmina Villarruel hinggil sa pagbackout niya sa soap
opera na pagbibidahan sana nina Carmina at Mark Anthony Fernandez, ang
Munting Heredera.
Ani Zoren: “Health problem talaga ang problema ni Carmina. Alam mo
nang tinanggihan ni Carmina ang Munting Heredera, naisip agad ang asawa
ko ang over worked. Problema niya kapag sobrang dami ng trabaho ay
pagkakaroon ng stiff neck. Mahirap na sakit ito sa kanya dahil very painful”
Sa ngayon ay may tatlong existing shows si Carmina sa GMA 7, kabilang
ditto ang Pepito Manaloto na tuwing Sunday at bida si Michael V, ang
Amazing Cooking Kids na tuwing Sunday at ang Day Off tuwing Thursday sa
GMA New TV. May iba pa raw commitments na show sa local at abroad si
Carmina. Ipinalit kay Carmina si Camille Prats. Ngayo’y top rater ang show.
26
At 1:00 pm, the seminal film Jose Rizal by acclaimed director Marilou Diaz Abaya on the life of Dr. Rizal will be
shown at the Consulate General’s Conference Room.
Finally, renowned historian Fr. Javier de Pedro will be talking on Dr. Rizal’s relationship with the enigmatic Josephine Bracken in a lecture-forum at the Consulate General’s public area at 4:30 pm.
For administrative purposes, those who wish to join any of the aforementioned activities are requested to
advise their attendance by contacting the Cultural Section at tel. nos. 2823-8534/36 or e-mail cultural@
philcongen-hk.com (attention: Ms Gloria Celis/Ms Rennie Dela Cruz).
friends International Magazine june 2011
27
friends International Magazine june 2011
Lakbay ng Kalayaan, the 113th Philippine
Independence Day Celebration
by APG
The 113th Philippine Independence Day celebration, with the theme
Kalayaan: Paninindigan ng Bayan which was organized by the PIDOC
2011 or the Philippine Independence Day Organizing Committee 2011
was held last Sunday June 12, 2011 at the Chater Garden.
Despite the heavy rains in the early morning, the Filipino OFWs and
guests from Philippines and Hong Kong attended the celebration.
The PIDOC 2011 which was lead by Engineer Nazzer Ampang as
Chairman together with his team Sonia Zerrudo as Vice Chairman,
Secretary Medy Borlaza, Walter Melicor, Tess DomDom and Joseph
Bautista.
Consul General Claro Cristobal and the Philippine Consulate General
Hong Kong lead the said celebrations which started with the interfaith
mass then followed by reading of messages from the Philippines.
Cultural performances which was prepared by the different Filipino
Associations in Hong Hong Kong were also presented in the early part
of the program followed by the choral competition. The Folklorico
de La Union, a group of Filipino performers from La Union were
sponsored by their provincial Governor Manuel Ortega were also
amongst the batch of performers who earned thousands of applause
during their 30-minute performance.
One of the highlights of the event was the parade of Historical Floats
or “Karosa Ng Kagitingan at Kalayaan. The float started with the 1380
Makdum the Introduction of Islam 1521 Mactan. Sandugo, Moro
Sultanate, Diego Silang , Gomburza, Pugad lawin, Bagumbayan,
Hong Kong, Kawit, Commonwealth, Bataan March. Leyte Landing,
Kalayaan, Commonwealth, Hukbalahap, Rise of Nationalism, Bagong
Lipunan, Edsa, Kapayapaan Bagong Bayani and Pagbabago.
Iza Calzado, a sexy and beautiful actress from the Philippines and actor
Dennis Trillo performed in the Chater Garden while LBC endorser,
the handsome actor/host Edu Manzano visited Chater road and gave
away prizes for LBC customers and Filipino OFWs in the area.
Sponsors of the program were: AYALA Group of Companies, BPI,
Globe Telecom as Co presentors and LBC as major Sponsor. Other
sponsors were: Western Union, CSL Cebuana Lhullier, Philippine
Airlines, GMA Pinoy TV and more. While Media Partners: Friends
International Magazine , The Sun Newspaper, Hong Kong News, PTS
Whats UP and Pinoy World.
Winners of the competition were awarded in the later part of the
program, they are:
Poster Design
First
Clarence Delos Santos
Second Cely Gonzaga
Third May Jean Catbagan
Choral Winners
First
NOPT - Tagumpay Nating Lahat
Second Passi City - Bayan Ko
Third IsaFed - Malaya Ka Pilipino
Tess Domdom Chairman of the Poster and Choral Committee
Winners for Lakbay ng Kalayaan Float Competition
First
1898 - Hong Kong-Agoncillo and The Philippine Flag Organization - Lakbay Dangal
Second 1896 - Bagumbayan - Dr Jose Rizal and The Guardia Civil Organization - Laguna Achievers Workers Association
Third 1600 - Moro Sultanate - Sultan Kudarat And The Moro
Warriors - Organization - Sulkuda
Medie P. Borlaza - Chairman of Float/Cultural Parade and Filcom Line.
ILUSTRASYON
ni Rowena C. Estrella
Ugat kang pinagtibay ng lupang ubod
yaman
Pataba mo’y nagmula doon sa kalangitan
Uusbong kat yayabong, t’wing patak ng ulan
Yayabong ang mga sanga na saksi’y
kalawakan
Ikaw at ang bawat sanga’y tunay na pinagisa
At ang iyong pagsisikap bunga ay masagana
Pagsibol ng mga dahon kayo ang
nangunguna
Isinilang sa liwanag, kung nasaan ang pagasa
A Fathers day greetings to all the fathers, HAPPY
FATHERS DAYS to all of you most specially
to my husband Rolando L. Estrella Jr. and of
course to my Father Alfredo M. Cellano Sr. I love
you TaTay.
I Want to Be Just Like You
In a time when fathers are totally absent,
gone most of the time,
or physically present but mentally distracted,
you are there for me—
looking at me, listening to me
understanding me, talking with me.
You make time for me
even when it’s inconvenient for you.
You make me feel important to you.
just being you—a terrific father.
Every affectionate smile you give me,
every pat on the back, every hug
shows me you love me,
that you’re proud of me.
These are things I’ll remember
to do for my own kids.
You’re a great role model, Dad.
I want to be just like you.
Want to get your
poems published?
Share it with us. You might
just see your literary creation
on this page. Send all
Life Lessons
You may have thought I didn’t see,
Or that I hadn’t heard,
Life lessons that you taught to me,
But I got every word.
Perhaps you thought I missed it all,
And that we’d grow apart,
But Dad, I picked up everything,
It’s written on my heart.
Without you, Dad, I wouldn’t be
The woman I am today;
You built a strong foundation
No one can take away.
I’ve grown up with your values,
And I’m very glad I did;
So here’s to you, dear father,
From your forever grateful kid.
My Father, My Guiding Light
I learn from you when you teach me,
when I watch you do things,
and when I observe you
featured Poems
Dad, you’re like the sun to me,
a sure thing, always there,
your poems by email to
editorial@friends-intl-mag.com
beaming light and warmth on my life.
Whatever is good in me today,
I owe to your wisdom, your patience,
your strength, your love.
You taught me by example,
as a role model,
how to be my own person,
how to believe in myself,
instructing me without controlling me.
Even when we disagreed,
you held us together,
so our bond was never broken.
I understand what you did for me,
and I am so grateful that I have you
as my solid foundation, my rock.
I respect you, I admire you, I love you,
my guiding light, my father.
LBC Opens New Branch at World Wide House
LBC recently opened its new branch
at 3/F, Shop 319 Worldwide House in
Central.
Vice Consul Charles Andrei Macaspac
of the Philippine Consulate General,
Hong Kong, did the honors for the
ceremonial Ribbon Cutting together
with Area head Oliver Catong, Ms
Maricon, Ms Pamela and Leony Bailey
along with guests and LBC staff.
28
friends International Magazine june 2011
29
friends International Magazine june 2011
Laugh Lines . . .
Dalawang Kutsara
Apo : lo kumain naman po kayo kahit
dalawang kutsara lang
Lolo : ah hindi ko nga kayang kumain ng
kanin, kutsara pa kaya, dalawa pa?!
IDD call from the US
Husband: Hon, musta na ang tindahan?
Wife: department store na!
Husband: ang tuba-an?
Wife: KTV bar na!
Husband: ang trickad?
Wife: taxi na!
Husband: ang dalawa kong anak?
Wife: lima na!
Bakla daw
AMA: aba’y bakla ka ba talaga??
ANAK: di po ako bakla! mga chismax lang
yan galing sa mga chuvaness na wala magawa
sa chenelyn nila! ako baklush? heller.!!
AMA: ganun ba? akala ko totoo ang churvah!
okei!
Parang Exam
LOLA: astig ng ipin mo apo....parang
exsam!!!!
APO: bakit po????
LOLA: one seat apart!!!!!!
APO: sa inyo din po lola parang exsam.........
LOLA: ah eee... bakit naman????
APO: fill in the blanks.
Hanapin mo na lang doon.
Ipasok mo!
Jason: Eto, ipapasok ko na.
Melay: Dahan dahan lang ha.
Jason: Oo ako bahala:
Melay: Aaah... ang sarap!
Jason: Ididiin ko pa nang konti ah.
Melay: Oo sige.. ikot ikutin mo rin ha...ahhh.
Jason: O ayan, malinis na tenga mo. Kabilang
tenga naman.
Three guys were introduced to a girl
“Hi, I’m Peter, not a saint!”
“I’m Paul, not a pope.”
“I’m John, not a baptist.”
The girl gladly replies, “Hi, I’m Mary, not a
virgin!”
Mayaman at mahirap
Kung mayaman ka meron kang “allergy”.
Kung mahirap ka ang tawag dyan ay “galis”.
Sa mahirap, “sira ang ulo”, sa mayaman
“nervous breakdown”.
Ang mayamang malikot ang kamay tawag ay
“Kleptomaniac”, sa mahirap tawag dito ay
“magnanakaw”.
Pag mayaman ka ikaw ay “eccentric”, pag
mahirap “may toyo ka sa ulo”.
Kung mahirap ka at masakit ang ulo mo,
ikaw ay “ nalipasan ng gutom”, kung
mayaman ka naman at masakit ang ulo mo
meron kang “migraine”.
Kung mahirap ka ikaw ay “kuba”, pag
mayaman ka naman, meron kang “scoliosis”.
Kung mahirap na maitim ikaw ay “negrita”,
pag mayaman ka ikaw ay “morena”.
Kung high society ka tawag sa iyo ay
“slender”, pag low class ka naman tawag sa
yo ay “payatot”.
Ang anak ng mayaman ay “slow learner”,
ang anak naman ng mahirap ay “bobo”.
Pag naniwala ka naman sa joke na ito... pa
check ka na ng ulo meron kang “toyo sa
utak”
Happy and Joy
Do you know what’s the difference between
happy and joy???
well...
Joy is a dishwashing liquid and
Happy is a toothpaste...
Filipino Mart
C1 G/F Garland House
14A 14C North Point
H & I Philippine Product Store
Shop 179-B Nan Fung Plaza
Tseung Kwan O, N.T.
Available at the following outlets
Worldwide House Outlets
Shop 128 1/F Your Shoppe
Shop 134- 136 1/F Victory Shop
Shop 138 1/F Sun Fung Trading
Shop 125-126 Philippine Product Store
Shop 241- 2/F Royal Ventures
Shop 262 2/ F Little Divisoria
Shop 245 2/F Santiagos Alteration
Shop 246 2/F Annies Shop
Shop 369 3/F Kabayan Remittance
Shop 363 3/F Nelias Store
Shop 366-368 LBC Mabuhay Hkg.
Shop 350 3/F Mang Ambo
Shop 358 3/F Elegant Collections
JEM Employment Agency
Room 802 8/F Yat Fat Bldg.
44-46 Des Vouex Road Central
JEM Merchandise
15, 4/F Li Yuen St. West
2nd Alley-alley, Central
LBC Hunghom
Planet Square Hunghom Kowloon
LBC Tsuen Wan
Liksang Plaza Tseun Wan N.T
LEE Trading Co.
Shop 279, 2/F Liksang Plaza
Tsuen Wan, N.T.
Bayanihan Kennedy Town Centre
55 Victoria Road, Kennedy Town
Loy & Day Shop
Room 2013 2/F United Center
Admiralty
Benzon Wine
Shop 3 G/F Yee Fat Mansion
Shim Woo Road, Happy Valley
Lydias Store Kennedy Town
Shop 17 G/F Blk A Hoi Tao Bldg.
7-11 Belchers St. Kennedy Town
Filipino Trading Co.
5/F Fai Man Bldg.
9- 13 Li Yuen St. West Central
Manong & Manang Store
Shop 5 G/F Kwan Yick Bldg.
444-452 Des Vouex Road West
Filmart 1
G 52 G/F, 7 Seas Shopping Center
121 King Road, Fortress Hill
Sikatz Philippine Product Store 1 & 2
1/F Liksang Plaza, Tsuen Wan, N.T.
and Mei Foo Sun Chuen
Filmart 2
Shop 69 A,B,& C G/F
City Garden, Shopping Center
Blk 13 , 231- 233 Electric Road, North Point
Tel True Ltd.
1/F Lap Fai Bldg
Pottinger St. Central
Uniwide Hang Hau
Tseung Kwan O
Tel. 3194 5366
Uniwide Hunghom
Planet Square
Uniwide Laguna Arcade Kowloon City
Tel. 2772 1829
Uniwide Maon Shan
Tel: 2631 5977
Uniwide Shatin
Tel. 2362 7925
Uniwide Tai Po
Tel. 2650- 1283
Uniwide Tsuen Wan
Shop 1/F Liksang Plaza
Tsuen Wan N. T
Macau
Asia Pac Cargo Macau
42 Rua Da Alfandega
San Malou Macau S.A.R
Tel. 932610, 930443
Novo Ecijano Macau
Heidi – 6616 5191
Super Ace Cargo Macau
82 Rua Da Alfandega, Edificio Veng Leong
Macau
Tel 2893 9473
Awit ng estudyante
(to the tune of Pasko Na Naman)
Pasukan na naman oh kay tulin ng araw.
Pasukan na naman tila bakasyon kelan lang.
Ngayon ay pasukan dapat pasalamatan.
Ngayon ay pasukan tayo ay magawitan.
Baon!
Baon!
Baon na naman muli !
Tanging baon nating pinaka mimithi !
Baon!
Baon!
Baon na naman muli
Ang allowance naghahari!
Baby’s milk
Mommy1: Ano ang pinapainum mo sa baby
mo?
Mommy2: “promil” para sa matatag na
pangarap
Mommy3: “bonakid” para batang may laban!
…eh ikaw?
Mommy1: “emperador” para sa totoong
tagumpay!
Hanapin mo
Binata: Kung ibibigay mo sa akin ang
telephone number mo, tatawagan kita.
Dalaga: Ah, nasa direktoryo iyon. Hanapin
mo na lang doon.
Binata: Nice! Ano ba pangalan mo?
Dalaga: Ah, nasa direktoryo rin iyon.
30
friends International Magazine june 2011
31
friends International Magazine june 2011
AIDS Festival 2011 on its 8
th
Year in HK
by Chloe Belle D. Dogeno
HOROS C OP E
... alamin ang iyong kapalaran
Gemini (May 21- Jun 21) Giving and receiving appreciation, love, and
happiness come into your life now. You are moved to express your affections more
openly than usual. You also want to be surrounded with beauty and harmonious
people. It’s a great day to sit back and enjoy what and who makes you happy.
Emotions: Fair ~ Money: Good ~ Wellness: Fair. Power Numbers: 45, 23, 27,
3, 1, 47.
Taurus (Apr 19- May 20) The energy of this time is light, friendly and
easy, it all just flows today. Positive connections are made with others,
and you may meet a new friend that could turn into more if you let it.
You may also want to call or email someone you love, simply to cheer
them up or tell them you love them. Emotions: Fair ~ Money: Good ~
Wellness: Fair. Power Numbers: 46, 47, 6, 16, 5, 9.
Through the years of unwavering service to Hong Kong residents
especially to the ethnic minorities, the St. John’s Cathedral HIV
Education Centre held its 8th AIDS Festival in the territory on 29 May
2011 at Chater Road, Central, Hong Kong that attracted thousands
of participants including Filipinos, Thais, Indonesians, Sri Lankans,
Africans and local Chinese.
living with HIV based on their HIV status. Across the Asia region,
legislation and law enforcement often lag behind national HIV policies,
with the result that the reach and effectiveness of HIV prevention,
treatment and care programmes are undermined. Advancing human
rights and gender equity would not only be a triumph for the AIDS
response, but for human development as a whole.
This year’s theme, “DIFFERENT VOICES, UNITED ACTION”
offered a platform where different voices from diverse counterparts
could be reassembled to deliver a united action to address the AIDS
epidemic, to promote equal access to AIDS prevention, support,
treatment and care for all people in Hong Kong.
Information and display booths were present in the program supported
by various groups from the ethnic minorities. Filipino organizations
like the Filipino Reflexology Therapists Association HK Chapter, The
KOMADRONA- HK and League of Overseas Filipino Midwives HK
gave their free services to the audiences. While cultural presentations
from different migrant groups were performed.
Guests of Honours during the event included Mr. Teguh Wardoyo,
Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia, Mr. Lam WoonKwong (Chairperson, Equal Opportunities Commission) and Dr.
Christine Rada (Foreign Service Health Practitioner, U.S. Consulate
General Hong Kong) and representatives of different ethnic groups.
“I want to take a moment to recognise the work of St. John’s
Cathedral HIV Education Centre. Since the Centre opened its door
in 1995, it has been an important provider of services to those seeking
information and assistance on HIV/AIDS.” Mr. Lam Woon- Kwong
said. “They have also contributed to raising awareness on HIV/
AIDS with the general public through initiatives such as this fair,
publications, surveys, and training sessions,” he added.
The EOC has worked closely with the centre to promote knowledge of
the Disability Discrimination Ordinance and the Race Discrimination
Ordinance. It also joined with its fight and other organisations against
the stigma faced by people living with HIV and AIDS.
He also reiterated, “I am a firm believer that real change comes from
the people. Some of you who are here may be living with HIV/AIDS,
or you may know someone who is. If you or someone you know face
discrimination because of HIV/AIDS or other disabilities, I urge you
to contact the EOC and exercise the right to protection under the
Disability Discrimination Ordinance. We will try our best to help,
and you are not alone.”
According to UNAIDS, there are more than 33 million people living
with HIV in the world. In 2009 there were an estimated 2.6 million
new HIV infections. Over 7,000 new HIV infections are contracted
in a day, and the majority of those infected are from the low and
the middle income countries. In Asia alone, 4.9 million are living
with HIV. For every one person accessing AIDS treatment two people
are becoming infected. Without sustainable and affordable access to
lifesaving medicines, people’s lives will be in jeopardy.
With reports from Miss Elijah Fung.
Aries (Mar 21- Apr 19) This is a time to get others’ opinions and
feedback about yourself and what you are doing in regards to your life at
this time. Relationships of all types are energetic now and cooperation,
compromise, and adjustments to others’ viewpoints are key issues that
require your attention. You may come into contact with a person who
will be especially creative or influential in your life. Emotions: Good ~
Money: Fair ~ Wellness: Fair. Power Numbers: 4, 48, 17, 34, 20, 3.
Aquarius (Jan 20 - Feb 18) This is a favorable time to take a short
vacation or pleasure trip, even if it’s only in your mind as a fantasy. You
could read a book or see a movie. Positive connections are made with
others, and you may meet a new romantic partner, perhaps even share
the fantasy of the day. You may also want to call or email someone you
love, simply to cheer them up or tell them you love them. Emotions:
Good ~ Money: Good ~ Wellness: Fair. Power Numbers: 39, 1, 24,
35, 28, 11.
Libra (Sep 23 - Oct 22) If you are looking for someone special to
compliment your life and make long term goals with, the energy is out
there for interesting encounters. Accept any offers for social gatherings
that may come up and shine your shoes and take some breath mints with
you as you’ll never know just who might show up to rock your world.
Emotions: Fair ~ Money: Good ~ Wellness: Fair. Power Numbers: 20,
36, 41, 7, 13, 32
Virgo (Aug 23 - Sep 22) It’s a good day for agreements and generally
patting each other on the back, or maybe, for scratching each other’s
backs. It will be easy to see eye to eye, and shared goals and feelings can
be put into action to bring favorable future results. Mutual investment
and mutual trust is really what today’s emotional energy is about.
Emotions: Fair ~ Money: Good ~ Wellness: Good. Power Numbers:
33, 11, 43, 10, 12, 3.
Leo (Jul 23 - Aug 22) Romance becomes an end in itself as a new
cycle begins for you. This marks a time when love, creativity, and self
expression can satisfy a deep yearning to be appreciated and admired.
Remember being wanted for who you are instead of what you can give
is the ultimate compliment. Emotions: Fair ~ Money: Fair ~ Wellness:
Fair. Power Numbers: 31, 6, 20, 11, 13, 32.
Capricorn (Dec 21 - Jan 19) Your desire to make a fresh start, to take the
initiative and strike out on your own, is a powerful drive right now. Your
physical energy, will, and courage are intensified. Unless you channel
your abundant energy into decisive action or vigorous work, accidents,
anger, and irritability are likely at this time. Emotions: Good ~ Money:
Good ~ Wellness: Good. Power Numbers: 22, 43, 12, 31, 8, 13.
Sagittarius (Nov 23 - Dec 21) It may seem that circumstances, your
partner, or even the whole world is against you today! You may feel
overwhelmed by demands, outside pressures, or your responsibilities
and you are looking at your life with serious doubt or pessimism. Others
don’t seem to help, even if they try to so maybe the best thing for you
today is some alone time. Emotions: Good ~ Money: Good ~ Wellness:
Fair. Power Numbers: 43, 17, 24, 25, 41, 2.
Scorpio (Oct 24- Nov 22) Quiet reflection and attention to your inner
world, your family, and the foundation that supports all of your outside
activities, is called for today. This is a time to spend more on you than
on anyone else. Figure out what makes you happy and this will make
your relationships happier to. Emotions: Fair ~ Money: Fair ~ Wellness:
Fair. Power Numbers: 47, 7, 39, 33, 23, 17.
Cancer (Jun 23- Jul 23) It can seem too easy to simply push your way
through, but right now you’ll find that can be a losing strategy in any of
your relationships. The more you shove, the more resistance you’ll get.
Back off for awhile is going to be the best strategy and the problem will
more than likely fade away. Emotions: Fair ~ Money: Fair ~ Wellness:
Good. Power Numbers: 49, 25, 2, 42, 26, 5.
Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20) Your magnetism is strong and you attract
appreciation, affection and attention at this time. Feelings of love, a
desire for beauty, and the urge to be creative are strong. You beautify
your surroundings, and pay particular attention to your appearance.
This is a good time to treat yourself or do something fun just for you.
Emotions: Good ~ Money: Fair ~ Wellness: Fair. Power Numbers: 8,
36, 2, 7, 39, 11.
PHILIPPINE CONSULATE GENERAL AND HONG KONG LABOUR DEPARTMENT
TO CONDUCT WELCOMING PROGRAM FOR NEW OFWS IN HONG KONG
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who arrived in Hong Kong from the period of July 2010 to May 2011 are invited to attend
a Welcoming Program to be conducted at 2:00p.m.-5:00p.m. on Sunday, 26 June 2011 in the Sai Ying Pun Community
Complex Hall.
The program’s resource persons include officers from the Workplace Consultation Promotion Division and Employment Agencies Administration of the Hong Kong Labour Department, and representatives from the Philippine Consulate General and its
attached agencies, namely: Philippine Overseas Labor Office, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, PhilHealth, Pag-Ibig
and Social Security System.
The objective of the Welcoming Program is to brief new workers about Hong Kong’s Employment Ordinance and provide
them with pointers when using the services of employment agencies in Hong Kong. It will also introduce the participants to
the various services offered by the Consulate General and its attached agencies .
The program is free of charge and seats are limited to 350 participants. Interested participants must register with the PCG’s
Assistance to Nationals (ATN) Section through telephone numbers 2823-8513, 2823-8506, 2823-8510 or 2823-8512.
As of December 2010, 49 countries, territories and areas still impose
some form of restriction on the entry, stay and residence of people
32
friends International Magazine june 2011
33
friends International Magazine june 2011
Birthday Corner / Just for Kids / Parties
Edna Lomerez - Jul 23
Norma Capsula - Jul 26
Deth Deth Paulino - Jan 21
SK Abe with HK brods at Cinta J
JuneRosalina Sarmiento - Jun 11
Rosemarie Tacho - Jun 6
Bernadeth Mercio - Jul 31
Monica and Dhel - May 4
Carmen Valderama - Jun 6
Analyn Monis - May 12
SK Ehpraim de Mesa and Ate Sharon with HKG
brods - Jun 4 2011
Luis Miguel Biluan (left) with Renzo, Mawi &
Ercel - Jun 26
Aida Padua (2nd from left) - Jun 11
Anson Lee
Fritz John P. Jolin - Jun 22
Bambi Cotek - Jun 13
Renante Garcia - Jun 14
Marie Jade Canete - Jun 10
Lily Paraoan - Jun 1
34
Birthday Greetings
Angeline Dulagan
Jul 5 Anita Amadeo
Jul 26
June / July Celebrants
Lolita Obillo
Jul 6 Benadeth Mencio
Jul 31
Julie Denio
Jul 18
Prescy Massagan
Jun 2
Leony Jane Andres
Jul 20
Julie Ann Pilagud
Jun 6
Bing Andres
Jul 21
Sheila Brendan Timiclan
Jun 13
Apollo Alfonso
Sheran Camacho
Jun 15
Edna Lomerez
For birthday greetings,
email photo and details to:
Jul 21
editorial@friends-intl-mag.com
Jul 23
Soraya Cadangen
Jul 3
Norma Capsula
Jul 26
friends International Magazine june 2011
35
friends International Magazine june 2011
36