Magnegosyo!

Ni Ate Kulit

Ilan ba sa atin ang nangarap na umuwi sa Pilipinas at magtayo ng sariling negosyo? At ilan ang umuuwi na nalimutan, o piniling kalimutan, ang pangarap na ito? Ang kalimitang dahilan ay wala silang naipong pangkapital. Ang pangalawang dahilan ay dahil, maliban sa pagtatayo ng sari-sari store at pagbili ng tricycle, wala na silang ibang negosyong maisip pasukan.

Pero mayroon ding mga OFW na ngayon ay may sarili nang negosyo sa Pilipinas, hindi lang upang tapatan ang kinikita nila sa Hong Kong, kundi maging sandalan nila habambuhay. Ano ang kaibahan nila sa karamihan na hanggang ngayon ay nangangarap pa rin?

Mayroong naghanda sa kanilang pag-uwi sa pamamagitan ng pagsali sa mga libreng kurso sa tamang paghawak ng kanilang kinita at pagnenegosyo, gaya ng ginagawa ng CARD-MRI.

Kaya naman noong mag-for-good si Annabelle Libao, ang lider ng Isabela Federation, itinayo niya ang Belle’s Bakehaus, kung saan ginamit niya ang hilig sa pagluluto at pag-bake. Ngayon, siya ang puntahan ng mga kababayan para sa ihahanda nila sa mga espesyal na okasyon.

Mayroong mga mapalad na natuto mula sa kanilang kinalalagyan, gaya ni Myrna Padilla, dating lider ng Mindanao Federation. Sa alagang bata ay natutunan niya ang panggamit ng computer at internet, at ginawa niya itong pundasyon ng sa isang high-tech na kumpanya na ang mga kliyente galing pa sa iba’t ibang panig ng mundo—ang Mynd Consulting sa Davao City.

Kapag sinuri natin ang mga katangian nila, lulutang ang pinaka-malimit: Sila ay may pananaw o vision.

Paano ito maibabahagi sa nakararami?

Ito ang payo ni Antione de Saint-Exupery, ang may akda ng maimpluwensiyang librong The Little Prince: “If you want to build a flotilla of ships, you don’t sit around and talk about carpentry. You set the saws ablaze with visions of exploring distant shores.”

Sa isang salita: inspirasyon.

Kaya sa mga susunod na paglalathala ng The SUN, sisikapin naming maglabas ng kuwento ng mga OFW na nagtagumpay sa negosyo, upang ipakita ang konsepto ng negosyo nila at kung papaano nila ito pinursige.

Sana ay maging ambag ito sa ikauunlad ng inyong buhay sa hinaharap, mga katribo.

Rogue

By Daisy Catherine L. Mandap

Rogue is a word often used with employment agencies nowadays. When someone is called a rogue, it means that person is no good, a mischief maker.

It’s the same with many agencies. There are rogue ones who do every trick in the book to make money – often at the expense of our already overly burdened migrant workers. These are the ones who bleed their recruits dry with their outrageously high placement fees, then cause them further grief by not extending help when the worker is abused by the employer.

After decades of complaints against the long-standing collection of placement fees, the Hong Kong government is finally taking action. A bill that provides a jail term, as well as a sevenfold increase in the penalty for agencies that overcharge their recruits, has already been gazetted and will be soon taken up by the legislative council.

Not only will violators face a maximum fine of $350,000 from the current $50,000, they could also go to jail for up to three years.

Our hope now is that more errant agencies will be brought to court and properly penalized for squeezing our workers dry. As it is, only about a dozen cases are prosecuted each year by the Labour Department, a pathetically small number, given a recent study by a group of intrepid students from the University of Hong Kong which revealed that a whopping 70% of employment agencies charge migrants excessive fees.

A look at past cases also shows that even those who were hauled to court got off with just a mere slap on the wrist. A glaring example was Satisfactory agency in Tai Wai which was fined a measly $3,000 for each case where it charged the worker $21,000 two years ago. Worse, the agency was given 20 months to pay the fines and 18 months to return the workers’ money.

Still, the case is nothing compared to the recent one involving Emry’s Employment Agency, in which hundreds of Filipino workers who applied for non-existent jobs in Canada and Britain were each charged between $10,000 to $15,000. More than a year since the scam was carried out, Labour has yet to prosecute the agency’s owners, the police continue to refuse to investigate the victim’s fraud complaint, and the money claims totaling about $3 million are still stuck in the Small Claims Tribunal.

No wonder that migrant support groups had long lobbied for violators to be thrown in jail, instead of just being ordered to pay measly fines.

The government first sought to address the issue when it released a detailed Code of Conduct for Employment Agencies at the start of the year. But this was met with widespread criticism, as the code was non-binding.

With the significant increase in penalties for those that still flout the law, the government appears to have finally faced up to the reality that self-policing does not work for recruiters that continue to make money from the sweat of migrant workers.

But again, it must be emphasized that tougher penalties won’t stick unless they come with strict, serious enforcement. This is the only way to end the scourge that has caused untold suffering to thousands of migrants who continue to flock to Hong Kong in hopes of a better life.

Exploring Po Hong Park

By Arlene Abrugar

For people in Hong Kong, the trees and lush
garden make Po Hong Park a paradise in the city.

The weather was perfect for an afternoon walk. As the wind caressed my cheeks I trekked down  an unfamiliar path of thick greenery  and curved paths. There were a few runners, bikers, as well as brisk walkers like me, trying to make the most of a great day.

I took this walk during my last few days in Hong Kong, where life balance is vital to one’s well-being. To keep our equilibrium in this place where life is always lived on the fast lane, it is important for us to maintain our solitary compartment; unmoved and unspoiled, it helps keep us  calm and collected, especially when faced with adversity.

A visit to a nearby park is always a stress-buster.  Over the years that I had worked in Hong Kong, I became very appreciative of its recreational parks, which often come complete with sports facilities and amenities.

Right now, I am in Po Hong Park, which is just a 15-minute walk from our flat.  This park is huge, covering an area of 4.13 hectares, and is located at number 10, Wan Lung Road in Tseung Kwan-O. It officially opened to the public in 1997.

During Sundays and public holidays, locals mingle with foreign domestic helpers who choose to spend their rest day in this park, which is a perfect place to unwind and to get away from all worries, at least for a day.

It has a lot to offer: football and soccer pitches, a basketball court that doubles as a volleyball court, eight play areas for kids, two fitness spots for the elderly, a roller skating rink, plus well-manicured gardens. All facilities are open 24 hours a day, except for the hard-surface pitches, gateball court and skating rink which all operate from 7am to 11pm.

The elderly people in our flat love to spend their entire day here, soaking in the atmosphere, with only the chirping of the birds and the shrieks and laughter of children at play breaking the monotony of silence.

But for most locals, Po Hong is more popularly known as a kids’ park.

A review posted online says: “The park has many swings and slides and structures for the kids spending hours easily. One of the best options for draining the energy of the children.”

Po Hong Park is accessible through the MTR. Just take the Tseung Kwan O line and get off at Polam station, before taking exit B2. It can also be reached by Bus 91 M, 93 A, 93 K, 296M and 690.

You’re lucky if, like me, you live nearby. This gives you the unique privilege of making this park your private sanctuary. So, my advice to my fellow migrant workers who are in Hong Kong, explore your own neighborhood. You never know what could be in store for you unless you turn on that spirit of an adventurer in you.

Fate trounces Celsius in HK softball

Members and staff of the Fate and Celsius teams pose after the game.

By Emz Frial

The all-Filipina softball team in Hong Kong, Fate, won against its local rival Celsius  at Shek Kip Mei field on June 25, 20-0. The game only lasted for three innings.

Fate started the game as an away team. Its players, smarting after losing two successive games earlier, did not take any chances this time around.

They started piling up their scores from the first inning.  Six players each notched up a point: Liezeal Algonez, Myra Japitana, Don Gaborno, Emily Mabaquiao, Maribel Sitchon and Editha Hidalgo.

When the locals took their turn to bat, only three players managed to stand on the batting plate because of the Filipinas’ tight defence. First batter Wa Tsz Kei was caught by short stop Mendez on a fly ball, while second batter Tang Tsz Tang and third batter Lau Wing Yin were caught by first baseman Japitana.

The score remained at 6-0 for Fate at the end of the inning.

In the second inning, Fate added seven points to its score. Those who managed to reach home base were Algonez, Japitana, Gaborno, Mendez, Mabaquiao (who made a complete run when she blasted a long outfield ball), Locop and Hidalgo.

Celsius, on the other hand, continued to struggle. Three of its batters did not even get to step on first base. The fast ball of Fate’s pitcher Gaborno caught batter So Kit Ying standing out, while Chan Tsz Ying was caught on a pass ball by third baseman Mabaquiao to Japitana. Then Chan mun Mun was caught on a fly ball by Japitana for the third time.

That ended the inning 13-0.

Fate remained unstoppable in the third inning, piling 7 more points. Those who got to home base were Algonez, Japitana, Gaborno, Mendez,  Mabaquiao , Mandia and Jayme.

Until the last minute, the locals could not make contact with the ball. The combined strategy of pitcher Gaborno and catcher Algonez led to three consecutive batters from Celsius to be called for standing out.

The game was halted after this inning, with the score at 20-0 for Fate.

The team celebrated victory after the game when its manager, Mr. Law, treated the players and their supporters to an early dinner.

Police ban tents on Chater and other public places

Tents once sprouted like mushrooms on Chater Road during Sundays.

By Daisy CL Mandap

Tents were a short-lived fad among Filipino domestic workers spending their days off in several public areas in Central, particularly Chater Road.

On June 11, about a month after the tents began sprouting all over Central on Sundays, Hong Kong police circulated leaflets saying putting up structures in public areas without permission was a violation of the law, and offenders may be prosecuted or arrested.

“Any person who, without lawful authority to use tents, structures or other object in any public places, caused any matter or thing which (cause) obstruction, inconvenience or endanger (sic)…You may be prosecuted by “summons” or arrest”, said the statement with the heading “Police Warning”.

The maximum penalty for obstruction in a public place is a fine of $5,000 or imprisonment for three months.

The leaflet had Chinese, Filipino and Indonesian translations, a clear indication that it was meant for migrant domestic workers camping out in tents in open air.

The tents began to mushroom along Chater Road and several other places where Filipino domestic helpers congregate at the onset of the hot summer months in early May.

The tents, which reportedly cost anywhere between $200 to $500 each and could accommodate as many as six people comfortably inside, replaced the ubiquitous umbrellas the migrants used to shield them from the elements and lend them some privacy. They were often placed atop cardboard boxes which served as their portection from the hot cemented walkways.

The police ban upset some of the users who saw the tents as their temporary “home away from home” where they could chat, eat, sleep, play games and do other activities away from the public’s scrutiny.

In several chat sites, migrant workers said the tents gave them much-needed respite and privacy on the only day in the week when they were off-work.

They argued the tents even looked much better than the cardboard boxes, plastic sheets or newspapers often used as cover by those who hang out in Chater and other areas on Sundays.

But others were not so concerned, saying the tents were an eyesore as well, and prevented other migrants from using the open spaces to practice dances or other performances like they used to.

A comment on one Facebook post meant to solicit views about the tent ban said there had been a surfeit in criminal activities because of the fad.

“Marami nang cases ng nakawan ng pera, sahod sa loob ng (mga) tent at hirap silang mag-imbestiga because the tents were closed at the time of (theft) so kahit may CCTV around hindi makita kung sino ang kumuha”.

Eman Villanueva, chair of Bayan HK and Macau, was not unhappy, either, that the tents were gone, but for a different reason: “Doon sa Chater Road, napansin namin na nawala ang community interaction,” he said.

Before the tents came up, members of various migrant organizations who hung out in the area would often go around to chat or take a look at what’s happening in other places during various times of the day.

“(Then) nagkanya-kanya na ng tents. Hindi kagaya dati, nagkakausap pa ang mga magkakapit-tambayan”.

“Nagagamit din minsan sa sugal”, he added.

But he said the prohibition is not new, because the law has been in place for years. The police are probably just being more strict in the implementation because of the surge in the number of tent-users in the area.

Still, he said those who went along with the fad could not be blamed.

“Indication talaga yan na walang sariling lugar ang mga migrante kaya during days off, ang tents ang nagiging ‘private place’ ng marami at nakakaramdam sila ng ‘privacy’ kahit limited.”

“Wala lang talagang lugar ang mga MDWs (migrant domestic workers) where they can rest during rest days”, he added.

Police dismiss Filipina’s assault complaint against employer

By Daisy CL Mandap

Hong Kong police have decided not to file charges against a local couple accused of assaulting their Filipino domestic worker, Ruth Ramos Daria, last April.

In a letter sent to Daria on June 22, the police thanked the Filipina for filing the complaint, but said: “The Police investigation has now finished and the evidence obtained in the investigation has been considered. At present there is insufficient evidence to prove any person has committed a crime. If in the future, any additional information becomes available to assist further investigation into this incident, the case will then be reviewed”.

The police decision dashed Daria’s hopes of filing a separate case for compensation for the injuries she claimed to have suffered as a result of being thrown out of her employer’s house in Tai Kok Tsui on Apr 3 following a dispute over a broken laundry hanger.

She had also hoped to find a new employer and process a new contract before leaving Hong Kong. Instead, her visa was extended only up to June 24, or two days after police informed her of their decision not to file charges.

Earlier, on May 19, Daria was paid a full month’s salary of $4,110 in lieu of notice in a settlement reached with her employer, Wong Wai-keung, at the Labour Department. The employer had initially refused to pay, saying he was not the one who terminated their contract.

But the Filipina insisted that she was effectively terminated because of the employer’s act of driving her away.

In a written statement she gave to police, Daria said that the alleged altercation happened shortly after she returned to her employer’s house at about 7:45pm that day after her day-off. As she was not given a key to the house, she had to wait until her employer and his wife and two children arrived at about 8pm to get in.

The employer’s wife reportedly got mad on seeing a broken laundry hanger. The row escalated when Daria denied causing a crack in the washing machine, which she said had been there from the time she started working for them.

The angry couple reportedly pushed Daria out of the house, but she tried to get back in as she did not have anything with her. When she tried to retrieve her handbag, a scuffle with the couple reportedly left Daria bruised.

The Filipina then called the police, then left after they finished investigating. She spent the night at her cousin’s boarding house in Mongkok.

The next day, Daria said she saw the bruises and scratches on her arms, and decided to seek help from the Philippine Consulate, which in turn advised her to  get a medical report, then file a complaint with the police.

PCG leads cultural show to mark 20th year of Handover

Performers take a bow to acknoiwledge the cheers from the audience.

By Daisy CL Mandap

It was a spectacle that may never be seen again in Hong Kong for awhile.

Nineteen groups from various ethnic minority groups put their best feet forward as they performed at Queen Elizabeth Stadium in Wanchai on June 25 as part of celebrations marking the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong’s Handover to China.

The “Celebrate Colours” cultural extravaganza, which took all of eight months to put together, was organized by the Philippine Consulate in cooperation with International Social Service Hong Kong and the Hong Kong government.

Guest speaker, Chief Secretary for Administration Matthew Cheung, said the show was part of a series events which the Hong Kong SAR coordinated with various groups to celebrate the Handover in line with the theme “Togetherness, Progress, Opportunity”.

“Togetherness is the lynchpin for progress. As a free and open society with various ethnic groups, Hong Kong upholds the principles of mutual respect and inclusiveness,” Cheung said.

He paid tribute to the 200,000 people from ethnic minority groups who have made Hong Kong their permanent home, as well as the more than 300,000 foreign domestic workers who he said, have helped tens of thousands of families in the city.

“We are truly and deeply appreciative of their sterling contribution and important socio-economic roles here,” said Cheung, who served as labor secretary in the previous administration.

Consul General Bernardita Catalla also paid homage to the migrant workers, saying they were the ones who conceptualized, produced and directed the cultural show, and performed in it as well.

“This afternoon, hundreds of them have come together and out, beyond their own circles and squares, bridges and parks of Hong Kong to present to all of you their talent, and share their colorful, precious and caring customs and traditions in a two-hour program aimed to serve as a gift and a joint bridge to strengthen understanding and unity,” said Congen Catalla.

She also thanked Hong Kong people for “welcoming us to work, live, love, and build and fulfill our dreams in our beloved Hong Kong, our home for now”.

ISS HK’s chairman, C.P. Ho, called on the Hong Kong government and the various consulates to work with his organization in bringing about a “brighter and more fruitful future” for the territory.

Following the opening ceremony, a musical number, “Hong Kong is Home”, was performed, and was immediately followed by the dance performances, each introduced only by the lighted sign in the backdrop.

A hands-down favorite among the performances was the blindfolded tinikling by two dancers of the Tinikling Group of Migrants, which also did an energetic “sayaw sa bangko” in the same loop.

For sheer spectacle, however, the Masskara by the One Negros group was the all-around winner. Not only did the performers wear the most colorful costumes and eye-catching masks, they also made full use of the stage lights to enhance their performance.

Also dazzling was the martial arts number presented by young members of the Hong Kong Wushu Union. They impressed not only with their agility, but also with their grace and fluidity of movements.

The first to earn a spontaneous applause from the crowd were, however, the dancers of La Union Federation, who surprised and delighted everyone when they formed enchanting blooms with their hand-held twigs of mock “kakawati” flowers.

Visually riveting was the “singkil” by the National Organization of Professional Teachers. Their dancers dazzled not just with their colorful and shiny costumes but also the intricacy of their dance steps and movements.

Also getting their fair share of hearty applause from the audience were the all-Filipino  Superstar Singers who sang with equal aplomb Indonesian, English, Filipino and Chinese songs.

The other performers proved to be worthy of having been selected to take part in the event, out of several groups that tried to pass the muster of judges selected by the Philippine Consulate General.

With financial subsidy from the three big corporate sponsors of the event, all the performing groups turned up in uniquely designed and dazzling costumes, which they matched with precise and synchronized steps.

The other performers were The Children of H.O.P.E., which did “Aray” and “Fusion Dance,” Teens Sport and Dance Centre, which did Chinese Folk Dance; Visayas Alliance with “Tiklos”; Sangar Budaya with “Yapong” (Indonesia); Isabela Federation with “La Jota Isabela;” Punjabi Bhangra Hong Kong with “Bhangra” (India); Sri Lanka Association in HK with Fusion Dance;  Thai Migrant Workers Union HK with “Ram Phutai”; South Cotabato Workers Association with “B’laan”; Benguet Federation with “Bendian”; The Luzon Alliance International with “Polka Sa Nayon”; Abante Cagayanos HK with “Ati-Atihan”; and One Visayas with “Sinulog”;

Nagsisisi na walang naka-relasyon

Sa loob ng halos tatlong dekada ay ibinuhos ni Laila ang oras sa pagtatrabaho sa ibang bansa para matulungan ang pamilyang iniwan sa Pilipinas, kaya hindi na siya nakapag-asawa. Ang unang 12 taon ay ginugol niya sa Singapore, bago siya nagpasya na lumipat sa Hong Kong. Sa kasalukuyan ay 14 taon na siya sa among Intsik, at siya na ang nagpalaki sa anak nito na nasa UK na ngayon at nag-aaral.

Unti-unti nang nararamdaman ni Laila ang bigat ng paninilbihan sa maraming taon na nagdaan, kaya nagpaplano na siya para sa kanyang napipintong pagbabalik sa Pilipinas. Ang balak niya ay bumili ng kalabaw at ipaalaga ito sa isang kapatid, at sakaling manganak ito ay ipapasa na naman sa susunod nilang kapatid, hanggang ang lahat ay magkaroon na ng kanya-kanyang alagaing hayop.

Naghahanda na rin siya sa kanyang pag-uwi na nag-iisa.

Si Laila na isang Ilongga ay hindi man lang nakaranas na magmahal at magkaroon ng karelasyon na magmamahal din sa kanya. Kung minsan ay naawa siya sa sarili at nagsisisi dahil hindi siya nag-isip magka nobyo man lang, pero sa tantaya niya ay huli na ang lahat dahil lampas 50 anyos na siya.

Ayaw naman niyang pumasok sa isang relasyon dahil lang nalulungkot siya. – Merly Bunda  

What's on where?

Free Medical and Dental Examination
(6th Annual Community Health Fair)
Available only for foreign domestic workers
July 2, 10am-4pm
Venue: Sam Yuk School Building, 14 Sycamore, Tai Kok Tsui, Kowloon
(Prince Edward MTR, exit C2)
Organizer: HK Adventist Hospital
*Two dentists and three doctors will provide health counseling.
*Two free seminars:
11am: “How to prevent Women’s Cancers”
1pm: “Silent Killer, Cardiovascular Disease”
To reserve your place, contact Daniel Seo at 9017 5774/ 2808 0855

Raise the Roof V: Fiesta sa Bayanihan! 
(A celebration showcasing Filipino music, dances, spoken word, games, and many more)
July 15 (Saturday), 2pm-5:30pm
Bayanihan Centre, 55 Victoria Rd, Kennedy Town
Organizer: Section Juan
Tickets are priced:
Adults: $100; Teen $70; Children (up to 12 yo), $50 and Barkada Package: $360 for 4 adults
Guests are each requested to bring a pre-loved book

Calling all Filipino guitar players in Hong Kong:
Be part of Hong Kong’s history. Join the Grand Guitar Jamming to be held at Tamar Park, Admiralty, on July 1, the 20th Anniversary of Hong Kong’s Handover to China, a statutory holiday.
All guitarists will play the song, “Anak” by Freddie Aguilar.
Please wear black shirts and maong pants, or you may buy the “Guitar I’ve Been There” shirt from the organizers.
For queries, please call Frederick at 6971 1992. See you all!

Attention: Rugby enthusiasts
We, the Exiles Touch Rugby group are inviting rugby enthusiasts to join the team. We practice every Sunday at the Happy Valley Pitch 8 from 5pm to 8pm at the Happy Valley Pitch 8.  For those interested please contact: Ghelai 65414432 whatsapp/sms or click like on Exiles HK facebook page

Wanted: softball players 
The all-Filipina softball team is now open for tryouts. Those who are interested, especially those with prior experience in the game may contact Team Captain Don Gaborno at 5318-5113

Attention: Migrants with medical background
The Philippines Nurses in Hong Kong is inviting those with medical training or background (nurses, nursing graduates, caregivers or those who attended 1-day elderly care training seminar) to join our seminar on  Elderly and Dementia Care on July 2, 9 and 16  at the POLO Conference Room, 11th Floor, Tower 1, Admiralty Centre. For more information please contact Ms. Maybelle P. Frianeza at 28660640 or send a message at Philippine Nurses in Hong Kong Facebook Page.

Health checks for FDWs
Caritas Asian Migrant Workers Social Service Project will conduct the following 2-day “Health Concern” programs for foreign domestic workers:
Day 1: Body check on Body Mass Index (BMI), blood pressure, glucose, musculoskeletal assessment & level stress. Schedule: 10 September 2017, 14:00 - 17:00; Day 2: 17 September 2017, 14:30 - 16:30
Day 2: Result Explanation & Community Resource for Follow up (Medium of Language: English & Indonesia). Schedule: Day 1: 23 September 2017, 14:00 - 17:00; Day 2: 30 September 2017 , 14:30 - 16:30
Fee: $20 for 2-day program, including test and handout (reservation is needed). Venue    : Caritas Fortress Hill Centre, G/F. , No.28A, Fortress Hill Road, Hong Kong.
Contact: Sisca at 2147-5988.

Caritas: Occupational Health & Safety Workshop
July 5- August 5, 2017 (5 consecutive Saturdays). Fee: $20
Time : 2.15 p.m.- 4.30 p.m. ( 2.45 p.m. - 5.00 p.m. on 22 July 2017). Venue  : Caritas Fortress Hill Centre, G/F., No.28A, Fortress Hill Road, Hong Kong. Content: Occupational sickness, physical health, mental health, pain management, employment rights, protection and community resources. Enquiries: 2147-5988

Masuwerte ba ang July para sa iyo?

TANDANG. Isinilang noong 1921/33/45/57/69/81/93
Marami kang magagandang ideya na sayang lang kung hindi mo gagamitin dahil makakatulong ito upang gumanda ang pamumuhay. Mag-ingat ng husto sa mga gastusin, at pakaiwasan ang mangutang. Ingatan ang lalamunan. Hingan ng tulong ang mga kilala mong mahuhusay magtrabaho upang maisagawa ang gusto mo, at matupad ang ambisyon. Lucky numbers: 7,15,22 at 31.

ASO. Isinilang noong 1922/34/46/58/70/82/94
Masyado mong pinahihirapan ang katawan mo ngayon kaya nababawasan ang kalidad ng trabaho. Madali ka ring maniwala agad sa mga sinasabi ng grupong humihikayat sa iyo tungkol sa mga bagay na ispiritwal. Isang aksidenteng pagkikita ang magdadala sa iyo ng saya. Huwag pabigla-bigla sa gastusin, hingin ang opinyon ng asawa pagdating sa pera ng pamilya. Lucky numbers: 19, 25, 35 at 37.

BABOY. Isinilang noong 1923/35/47/59/71/83/95
Magiging mabuting kaibigan ang bagong kakilala. Mag-ingat at mag-isip mabuti bago maniwala o makisali sa anumang grupo. Desidido kang sundin ang balak mo upang mapaghandaan ang magandang kinabukasan mo. Maganda ang pagsasama, at may tsansa kang ayusin ang anumang hindi pagkakaunawaan. Sundin ang intuisyon ngayon. Lucky numbers: 16, 17, 23 at 39.

DAGA. Isinilang noong 1924/36/48/60/72/84/96
Makulimlim ang pananaw mo sa bagay-bagay ngayon, kaya hindi ka nakakain at nakakatulog ng maayos. Mag isip-isip ka! Panahon na upang ayusin ang pananalapi. May pagtatalo at away sa pagsasama ngayon, pero mas marami pa rin kayong bagay na napapagkasunduan. Maayos at mabilis kang mag-isip kaya naiiwasan ang anumang hindi pagkakaintindihan sa trabaho at sa ibang bagay. Lucky numbers:12, 15, 36 at 38.

BAKA. Isinilang noong 1925/37/49/61/73/85/97
Magiging abala ka sa love life. Magiging tensyonado ang relasyon sa pamilya, pero huwag mag-alala dahil posibleng makakakita agad ng solusyon. Mag-ingat sa pagiging makakalimutin dahil magdudulot ito ng problema. Upang hindi lumala ang problema sa pagdumi, kumunsulta sa doktor. Lucky numbers:20, 21, 33 at 45.

TIGRE Isinilang noong 1926/38/50/62/74/86 at 98
Magtatagumpay ka sa napili mong trabaho, pero mag-ingat sa mga maiingggit sa iyo, na maaaring isa sa mga kaaway o kaibigan mo. Iwasan ang mga pagkaing ipinagbabawal sa iyo upang mapababa ang cholesterol level. Abalahin ang sarili sa intelektwal na bagay gaya ng pagbabasa, at palawakin ang kalaman sa iba’t ibang bagay. Mag-ingat na magkaroon ng relasyon sa katrabaho na maaring ikasira. Lucky numbers: 11, 27, 29 at 35.

KUNEHO Isinilang noong 1927/39/51/63/75/87
Makakatagpo ka ng taong magpapasaya sa iyong puso. Pipilitin mong gumawa at masunod ang plano tungkol sa maayos na paghawak ng pera, at agad mong makikita ang magandang resulta. Dahil sa pagwawalang bahala, magiging magulo ang kalagayan ng pamilya. Ang buhok na walang sigla at marupok na mga kuko ay senyales ng kakulangan sa vitamin A, dagdagan ang pagkain ng carrots, spinach, sitaw, kalabasa at atay ng baboy. Lucky numbers: 5, 18, 26 at 41.

 DRAGON Isinilang noong 1928/40/52/64/76/88
Humihina ng resistensya mo, kailangang maghinay-hinay ka sa trabaho at dagdagan ang pahinga. Anuman ang kalagayan ng relasyon, hindi ka gaanong masisiyahan ngayon. Magagamit mo ang intuisyon upang malutas ang bagay na matagal nang bumabagabag sa iyo. Maganda ang resulta ng trabaho dahil sa sipag at sigla mo. Panahon na upang subukang i-invest ang pera mo at mapangalagaan ito. Lucky numbers: 14, 21,33 at 44.

AHAS Isinilang noong 1929/41/53/65/77/89
Kung walang karelasyon, sigurado pa ring marami kang tagahanga. Piliting makita ang magandang bahagi ng mga bagay at mga benepisyong natanggap mo sa buhay. Problemado man sa pera, huwag mong pahirapan ng husto ang sarili! Kailangan mo ng tamang pagkain at exercise. Sa trabaho, mas mainam na magkaroon ng sistema at huwag madaliin ang lahat. Lucky numbers: 6, 10, 13 at 42.

KABAYO. Isinilang noong 1930/42/54/66/78/90
Madali kang mataranta, kumalma lang at alamin muna ang sitwasyon bago magalit o kumilos ng hindi tama. Sa trabaho, makikita na ang positibong resulta ng pinaghirapan. Mag-ingat para huwag malito at magkamali kung ano ang Lucky numbers: 12, 19, 25 at 39.

KAMBING. Isinilang noong 1919/31/43/55/67/79 at 91
Labanan ang labis na pagkahilig sa pagkain dahil kung hindi, baka magkaroon ng problema sa kalusugan. Huwag ipagsabi ang nalalaman o problema kung ayaw mong maging tampulan ng tsismis at masira ang reputasyon. Magpapakita ka ng kabaitan sa mga tao sa paligid mo. Hirap kang kontrolin ang sarili sa pamimili ng bawa’t magustuhan, kaya huwag magtaka kung kapos ka sa katapusan ng buwan. Lucky numbers: 22, 26,31 at 44.

UNGGOY. Isinilang noong 1920/32/44/56/68/80/92
Mag-ingat sa taong pilit haharangin ang iyong daraanan. Isantabi muna ang mga dating gawi at subukang makikilala ng mga bagong mukha. Hindi ito ang tamang panahon para sa pinansyal na transaksyon o pagbili ng bahay at lupa. Bantayan ang kalusugan. Sundin ang pangarap mo at huwag susuko sa mga darating na pagsubok. Lucky numbers: 9, 15, 23 at 31.

Sapilitang bakasyon

Dalawang Pilipina ang sapilitan diumanong pinauuwi ng kani-kanilang mga amo dahil gusto ng mga ito na umalis ng Hong Kong, at ayaw magbayad ng sahod habang wala sila.

Sa kaso ni Rosal, pilit daw siyang pinauuwi ng kanyang amo sa darating na Agosto para sa isang linggong bakasyon. Nakatakda kasing mangibang bansa ang amo at gusto nitong umalis din ang kasambahay.

Ang siste, ikakaltas daw sa sahod ni Rosal ang halagang katumbas ng isang linggong bakasyon, at pati na ang pinambayad sa tiket niya pauwi. Naubos na kasi niya ang kanyang annual leave.

Mas malala naman ang problema ni Danielle dahil ang gusto ng kanyang amo ay umuwi muna siya ng dalawang buwan habang ito ay nagbabakasyon, pero hindi siya pasasahurin.

Agad naman silang sinabihan ng napagtanungan na hindi maari ang ganitong usapan. Hindi maaring pilitin ang isang katulong na magbakasyon ng walang bayad dahil lang gustong umalis ng amo. Nasa sa kasambahay na iyon kung papayag siyang magbakasyon, pero hindi puwedeng sapilitan, lalo na at babawasan ang kanyang suweldo, at siya din ang sasagot sa pamasahe.

Sinabihan silang pumunta sa Philippine Overseas Labor Office para humingi ng tulong at baka maaari pang paliwanagan ang kani-kanilang amo tungkol sa mga karapatan ng isang kasambahay na dayuhan.

Agad namang sumunod si Rosal sa suhestiyon, pero si Danielle ay sumuko na, at binigyan ng isang buwang pasabi ang amo na aalis na siya.

Pero panibagong problema na naman ang kinaharap niya dahil ayaw tanggapin ng kanyang amo ang kanyang desisyon na putulin na ang kanilang kontrata, lalo at nakatakda itong umalis.

Sinabihan ulit si Danielle ng napagtanungan na humingi ng tulong sa POLO at bigyan ng kopya ang Immigration ng kanyang sulat na pinuputol na niya ang kanyang kontrata. Hindi na maaaring tutulan iyon ng amo karapatan niya iyon. – DCLM

Long-running ROA case to be heard anew

By Daisy CL Mandap

Two cases centred on whether a non-resident guardian of a minor child with right of abode in Hong Kong could be allowed to remain in the territory is due to come before the Court of Appeal again on July 10.

Solicitors for both sides appeared at the Court of Appeal early in June on an application by the applicants for leave to submit fresh evidence. The application was, however, denied by CA’s Vice President Vincent Lam and Justice Jeremy Poon on June 28.

The first case dates to as far back as 2007, when Milagros Tecson Comilang, a former domestic helper, sought leave for a judicial review against the Immigration Director’s decision rejecting her application to remain in Hong Kong and look after her then one-year old daughter, Zahrah Noor Ahmed.

The second was filed by Desiree Rante Luis, also a former domestic helper, who likewise seeks to remain in Hong Kong to look after her three children, David John, now 15 years old; Carl Benz, 13; and Mark Joely, 6.

In the first case, Zahrah, now 11, was born after Comilang and Pakistani permanent resident Shaker Ahmed were married in 2005. The girl was born pending the approval of Shaker’s application for a dependant’s visa for Comilang. Shortly afterward, Comilang learned that Shaker was already married, and the marriage broke down.

Comilang eventually filed an application for judicial review with the High Court in April 2011 against the Director’s decisions since 2007 to refuse her application for extensions of stay. The CA remitted the case to the Director for fresh considerations.

However, on Sept 2, 2013 the Director again refused Comilang's application, saying there were no exceptional circumstances to justify an exercise of discretion on humanitarian or compassionate ground.

Comilang’s solicitors referred the case back to the CA with an application for leave for judicial review, which was granted in June 2014.

In the second case, Desiree Luis gave birth to the three children in Hong Kong while married to someone referred to in earlier court documents only as “Mr Luis.” All children have studied in Hong Kong since birth and were under Mrs Luis’ care.

Between 2006 and 2011, Mrs Luis shuttled between Hong Kong and the Philippines 24 times, and on each occasion, was granted extensions of stay in Hong Kong. But on Jan. 26, 2012, the Immigration Director refused her application for extension of stay to look after her minor children. She then overstayed, but the Director “tolerated” her presence as shown by several letters issued periodically.

With help from solicitors, she again applied for permission to remain on May 6, 2013, but this was refused by the Director on July 26 that same year, saying he did not find the application in line with immigration policy. He also did not find any grounds to justify the application on humanitarian or compassionate grounds.

In May 2014, Mrs Luis again applied for leave for judicial review, and the same was granted two months later.

The High Court, through Justice Thomas Au, heard both cases over three days in December 2014. More than a year later, he dismissed anew the application to review the Director’s decision, and dismissed all applications to grant extension of time to the applicants.

Justice Au also ruled that his order should become absolute 28 days after the decision was handed down.

Both cases were again raised to the Court of Appeal, where they will be heard over 5 days from July 10.

New OFW IDs out soon, Bello says

Sec Bello speaks during a visit in HK

The new identification card for overseas Filipino workers is set to be launched by the Department of Labor and Employment on July 12, and could be issued as early as the end of the month. This was according to Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III during a briefing at Malacanang earlier today, July 4.

He said the new ID called iDOLE (ID of DoLE) will be given free to all OFWs registered with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration.

"All we need is iyong inventory of all the bonafide OFWs on the basis of which our POEA, in conjunction with the Department of Labor, will start processing the IDs," he said.

However, he did not give a definite date for its issuance, only saying in a separate video interview that the distribution could begin by the end of the month.

Bello also announced a plan to make the iDOLE serve as the worker’s passport and said DoLE is now talking with the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Justice regarding this.

He did not give other details, but the scheme could be similar to the one adopted in places like Hong Kong and Singapore where residents are allowed to get in and out of their territories by simply swiping their national IDs at designated entry and exit points. However, passports are still required of foreign nationals entering other countries abroad.

As announced earlier, the ID will replace the overseas employment certificate or OEC, which has long caused problems for OFWs especially in places like Hong Kong where tens of thousands of workers go home at the same time during peak vacation periods.

The OEC was supposed to have been scrapped was early as August last year in line with a new POEA circular; instead applicants were required to obtain an exemption certificate through the Balik Manggagawa Online (BMOnline) system, which led to longer queues.

The new ID could also be used to transact with other government agencies like the Social Security System, Pag-IBIG Fund, and Philippine Health Insurance Corporation or Philhealth.

 “This is the best gift of our President to OFWs,” said the labor secretary.

Bello also said that another promise made by President Rodrigo Duterte during his dialogue with members of the Filipinos community in Hong Kong last May 13 would be fulfilled later this year.

Citing a statement from Finance Secretary Sonny Dominguez, Bello said the OFW bank will be launched in October this year. 

But in an interview with reporters during his Hong Kong visit, President Duterte himself said that the October deadline was “difficult” as the OFW Bank could not be set up through an executive order, by through a law passed by Congress.

The government’s plan is to convert the state-owned Postal Bank into a financial institution for OFWs. A Postal Bank officer said the government needs to infuse between Php2 billion to Php3 billion to implement the plan.

Also in the pipeline is the creation of a separate government department to handle the concerns of Filipino workers abroad.

There are about 2.4 million Filipino migrant workers worldwide. Remittances sent home through banks by OFWs hit a record $26.9 billion in 2016 from $25.61 billion during the previous year. – sunwebhk.com

Filipino driver 'hangs self' over family problem

The victim was found hanging from the ceiling of his room, an apparent suicide

(Updated)
By Vir B. Lumicao

A 34-year-old Filipino driver was reportedly found dead hanging from the ceiling of his room at his employer's luxury home in Deep Water Bay, early this morning, July 3.

A police spokesman said the body of the victim was discovered by a fellow male domestic helper,(apparently his brother), at 7:42 am inside the house on Deepwater Bay Road.

No suicide note was found.

An officer of the Consulate’s assistance to nationals section identified the victim as V. Pedroso, married with two children, and a native of Batad, Iloilo.

The officer said ATN was informed of the incident by Pedroso’s brother, who also works as a driver for the same Chinese employer as the victim.

The brother reportedly mentioned that Pedroso had been depressed by a family problem.

His family has already been informed while his brother is doing the paperwork for the repatriation of the victim’s remains and the benefits due his family from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.

The body of the victim was taken to Victoria Public Mortuary in Kennedy Town where it will be autopsied. Police are still investigating. - with a report by Merly Bunda

PAHK raises $260k for charity from annual ball

PAHK Chairman Rex Aguado leads officers and guests in a toast during the charity night.

By Daisy CL Mandap

The Philippine Association of Hong Kong, the biggest group of Filipino professionals and business people in Hong Kong, raised a total of $260,000 for charity from its annual Philippine Independence Day Ball held at the Conrad on June 17.

This was according to PAHK chair, journalist Rex Aguado, who said the money will go to various charities, including the Bayanihan Centre, Bethune House Migrant Women’s Refuge and Wim and Leila Rispers (Wimler) Foundation.

Part of the proceeds of the “Swingaround” event which was co-sponsored with Philippine Airlines will also go to the PAHK-Aral educational fund, a project with Wimler.

“We are ‘adopting’ a class of B’laan school kids in Narangay Lampagang, Tulunan in Cotabato by buying them shoes, school bags, books, notebooks, other school supplies under the re-focused PAHK-Aral educational fund for poor children in remote areas,” said Aguado.

In his speech at the Ball, Aguado focused on the importance of education and good values in nation building when he quoted national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal: “Why independence, if the slaves of today will be the tyrants of tomorrow?”

He also deflected complaints from some about the relatively pricey tickets to the event - $2,000 each for the VIP seats and $1,500 for others – assuring everyone that the social event was for a good cause.

Standing in place of guest speaker Consul General Bernardita Catalla who was reportedly taken ill shortly before the event was her deputy, Roderick Atienza.

In Catalla’s written speech which Atienza read, the Philippines’ top diplomat bid farewell to members and guests of PAHK, as she is set to take up her new post as Ambassador to Lebanon by August this year.

She said the “Swingaround” concept jibed with the familiarization tours that the Consulate had been doing to promote the country.

She also thanked Aguado and the PAHK for organizing tours and business meetings that focused on the province of Iloilo as a destination for Hong Kong people, and called on the community to work together to help sustain the Philippines’ economic growth.

In keeping with tradition, the 58-year-old PAHK organized a Sunday show for migrant domestic workers at Edinburgh Place in Central the next day, where the featured performers were a group called BoyBandPH. The Ball was topbilled by singers Morisette Anon and Johna.

Walang habag na pinababa ng amo

Umiiyak na nagkuwento ang isang Pilipina na sapilitan diumanong pinababa ng amo niya mula sa bahay nito sa Tuen Mun sa kasagsagan ng typhoon signal no 8 noong Hunyo 12.

Binayaran naman siya ng kaukulang halaga, pero dahil wala nang bumibiyaheng sasakyan ay napilitan siyang nagpalipas ng gabi sa bus terminal. “Umiiyak ako sa pagkahabag sa aking sarili,” sabi ng Pinay na nakadalawang kontrata sa una niyang amo, at walong buwan sa masungit na pangalawa bago siya biglaang pinalayas.

Gutom na gutom pa raw siya ng mga panahong iyon pero ayaw niyang iwanan ang mga gamit niya kaya hindi na siya nahiyang nagpabili ng pagkain sa isang Intsik na nakasabay niyang sumilong sa bus terminal. Mabuti naman daw at mabait yung Intsik kaya pinagbigyan siya.

Pangatlo na siya sa mga kasambahay na biglaang pinapaalis ng walang habag na amo dahil lang daw hindi kontento sa kanilang trabaho.

Ang ikinasasama pa ng loob niya ay hindi daw sinagot ang message na pinadala niya sa Facebook page ng Konsulado para magtanong kung ano ang dapat niyang gawin.

Dahil may cyst siya sa ovary ay nagpasya siyang umuwi na muna sa kanilang bahay sa Pangasinan para magpagaling at doon na mag-aplay muli para makabalik sa Hong Kong. Siya ay may asawa at dalawang anak na 21 at 15 taong gulang. – Marites Palma

Domestic workers kept out of minimum hours bill

By Daisy CL Mandap

AMCB's Eman Villanueva addresses the Legco manpower panel hearing

Foreign domestic workers have lashed back at the Hong Kong government’s plan to exclude them from a proposed new legislation on minimum working hours, meaning they will not be entitled to mandatory overtime pay.

Eman Villanueva, spokesman for the Asian Migrants Coordinating Body, called the proposal unfair and discriminatory.

“This proves that the government is promoting slavery in Hong Kong. We have already been excluded from the Minimum Wage Ordinance and now we are excluded again,” Villanueva said.

Under the proposal, the mandatory payment for overtime will apply only to those earning no less than $11,000 a month. Specifically excluded are those not covered by the Minimum Wage Ordinance or the Employment Ordinance, such as migrant domestic workers. The excluded workers can only expect to get extra pay if their employment contracts provide for such.

Asked about the exclusion, Chief Secretary Matthew Cheung reportedly said it was because “most employers are friendly”.

The statement by the outgoing labor and manpower chief further fueled the hostility of migrant worker leaders.

Indonesian migrant worker Sring Atin said in a Facebook post: “The most ridiculous argument ever. Since when did “friendliness” become a standard for labour rights?

Now we know why modern-day slavery is alive and well in Hong Kong. Its like saying ‘F*** the international labour standards, what we all need are good employers’.

 At the Legco manpower panel hearing on June 21, the proposal met widespread disapproval from nearly all groups asked to make a presentation, including local trade unions. They said it would only legalize long working hours, and threatened a boycott.

AMCB, which was among those invited to make a presentation, said in its statement: “We believe that FDWs are workers, and as such, any labor regulation that is aimed to apply to all workers must also be made applicable to FDWs. Regulation on working hours is a needed policy on all members of the labor sector.”

AMCB, along with most migrant support organizations, have long called for regulation to ensure FDWs are given enough time to rest and sleep. Studies conducted regularly by its aligned organization, the Mission for Migrant Workers, show that FDWs work 16 hours daily on average.

AMCB said the government’s mandatory live-in policy also made it imperative to include FDWs in the legislation, as it gave employers reason to expect their maids to be at their beck and call at any time of the day.

In an effort to soften the backlash, Chief Secretary Cheung said the $11,000 monthly income threshold will be reviewed before it is implemented.

The former labour and welfare chief said there was a need to also consider employers’ ability to absorb the cost of paying for overtime work.

The Executive Council passed the proposal on June 16, with outgoing Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying being reported as saying he wants a bill ready by the middle of next year, for implementation by the end of 2020 or early 2021.

Jail terms, hefty fines eyed vs. rogue agencies

By Daisy CL Mandap

Emry's has been one of the biggest cases.

The government has proposed to criminalize the offences of overcharging job seekers and running unlicensed employment agencies. On top of a possible jail term, the maximum fine for violators will also be raised seven-fold.

The proposals are contained in the Employment (Amendment) (No.2) Bill 2017 which was gazetted on June 16 and tabled for debate at the Legislative Council on June 28.

Under the proposed amendment, the maximum penalty for the two offences will be a fine of $350,000 (from the present $50,000) and imprisonment for up to three years.

A government press statement said, “The Labour Department said the bill will better protect job seekers, especially foreign domestic helpers who come to Hong Kong to work for the first time”.

It added, “The bill will also provide a stronger deterrent to employment malpractices.”

Migrant workers welcomed the proposed legislative amendment, but said there should be also be a stricter enforcement of the law.

“Fines are not enough. Imprisonment should be imposed on those committing this serious offense,” said Eman Villanueva, secretary general of United Filipinos – Migrante Hong Kong.

He said his group had long lobbied for the criminalization of overcharging and collection of illegal fees by agencies, as this seemed to be the only way to ensure that they followed the law.

Other migrant support organizations have long echoed the call, backed up by data that showed the wide extent of the problem of overcharging and carrying out illicit recruitment activities.

One of these, the Mission for Migrant Workers, has consistently published surveys showing gross agency violations, topped by excessive fee collection. In its latest report released in April, the Mission found that only 4% of the helpers paid the legal fee of 10% of their first monthly salary, which under current pay levels, should not be more than $431. More than half of those surveyed said they paid between $5,000 and $10,000 while an alarming 21% were charged more than $15,000.

Last month, a group from the University of Hong Kong calling itself “Students Against Fees and Exploitation” unveiled the results of a seven-month undercover work targeting employment agencies. Their study revealed that more than 70% of employment agencies charge domestic workers excessive fees.

Despite the apparent magnitude of the problem, only a handful of employment agencies are prosecuted by the Labour Department. In the first six months of this year, only three agencies were taken to court, and for the whole of last year, only eight prosecutions were carried out.

The maximum penalty imposed by the court in these cases was a fine of $30,000, by far a significant amount compared with those imposed on other violators in recent years.

The head of Hong Kong Union of Employment Agencies, Thomas Chan, said his group welcomed the government’s new initiatives, but thinks there are other violations that should also be addressed.

“As an association for accredited agencies, we always promote fair treatment to workers and employers as well. We encourage our members to follow the rules and regulations of HK government regarding so called placement fee,” Chan said.

However, he said his group thinks the government is not focusing on the whole picture, but only on certain issues like overcharging.

He suggested that stricter penalties be imposed also on “sub-agents” who use the names or “chops” of agencies accredited with the consulates in committing violations.

The government’s initiative follows the introduction of a non-binding code of conduct for agencies in January.

The code spells out the minimum standards required of licensees, including transparency in their business operation, drawing up service agreements with job seekers and employers, issuing receipts, and staying out of workers’ financial activities, including taking out loans.

The government warned of taking tougher actions if no improvements are seen within two years after the code was issued.

Cayetano says 10-year passport will be cheaper for OFWs

by Vir B. Lumicao

Cayetano promises Filipinos in HK that the new 10-year passport will be 'cheaper, faster' for OFWs

Newly appointed Foreign Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano has said that the new Philippine passport with 10-year validity will be made available to overseas Filipino workers “cheaper and faster”.

Cayetano made the statement during a public forum at the Consulate on July 2, a day after attending the 20^th anniversary celebration of Hong Kong’s Handover to China.

Addressing about 250 Filipino community leaders at the meeting, Cayetano brushed aside earlier reports attributed to the Department of Foreign Affairs that the new passport will cost double the current fee of $480 (US$60).

However, he did not disclose the exact intended cost, saying it was still under negotiation.

The bill extending the validity of Philippine passports from five to 10 years was ratified by both houses of Congress on May 16, and is now with the Office of the President for signing before it becomes law. The new passports will be issued after the Implementing Rules and Regulations for the new law take effect.

About 250 Filcom leaders attended the forum

Cayetano said the new passports will come with a smart cart where the details of the holder are embedded. They can thus be renewed without the holder going through the same application process, except if they are under 18 years old. The passport validity for this age group will still be five years.

Cayetano brought along with him two additional data-capture machines which he said would speed up the Consulate’s processing of passport applications. Currently, the Consulate has four such machines, which can process a maximum of 220 applications on Sundays, the busiest day of the week.

Responding to complaints about the offloading at Philippine airports of many OFW family members planning to visit Hong Kong, Cayetano said he would take up the issue with Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre the next day, Monday.