Saudi, Britain open doors to DH nurses; Japan next

By Vir B. Lumicao
A Saudi military hospital is seeking 250 care assistants while Britain is in need of 40,000 nurses, opportunities that could allow hundreds of Filipino nurses-turned- helpers in Hong Kong to return to their profession.

Japan, meanwhile, could soon open its doors to Filipino caregivers, given its rapidly ageing population.

These bits of information were relayed by two recruiters from Manila who provided new career options to Filipinos nursing graduates and caregivers who attended the whole-day Nurses Forum III on Oct. 4 at the Philippine Overseas Labor Office in Admiralty Centre.

FredPalmiery of Concorde and SHARP discuss job opportunities for RNs and BSN graduates in the United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia. (Photo from Labor Attache Jalilo de la Torre).

Saudi specialist and former nurse Alma Culala from LBS Recruitment Solutions Corp and Alfredo Palmiery, an employment agency owner in Manila and president of the Society of Hong Kong Accredited Recruiters of the Philippines, took turns briefing the 207 nurse-helpers who came for the orientation.

Labor Attaché Jalilo dela Torre, who organized the forum in cooperation with the Philippine Nurses in Hong Kong, said the seminar would open the way for nurses doing domestic work in Hong Kong to return to their profession.

“I think it’s a serious deskilling problem when nurses and other women of professions leave the country for work not suited for their professional backgrounds,” Labatt Dela Torre said.

“I have nothing against domestic work. It’s a decent way of earning money, but our nurses, midwives and teachers need to take up their professions and pursue their dreams working in jobs they have studied and spent a lot of money for.

The various fora we have organized for nurses, midwives and teachers are designed to open new opportunities for them.”

This was the first time that LBS, a supplier of nurses, paramedical and support staff to 16 government hospitals in Saudi Arabia and a private hospital in Brunei, came to Hong Kong to recruit staff for a Saudi hospital, said Culala.

“We are here to give you the opportunity to go back to nursing. King Faisal Hospital in Jeddah is in need of 250 care assistants,” Culala told the 102 participants who included two males.

She said BS Nursing graduates not younger than 22 years but not older than 44 are needed for the position, whether with experience or not. 

Practical nursing graduates without experience are also accepted, Culala said.

The recruiter offered a tax-free salary of Php32,000 to Php33,000 a month, air tickets, free board and lodging, yearly paid vacation of 40 days. The only cost for applicants is the Php12,000 medical checkup fee refundable upon arrival in Jeddah.

Culala told The SUN the care assistants would get three days off a week but would have longer work days as they will be required to be on duty for 48 hours a week.

Palmiery, meanwhile, said British hospitals prefer Filipino nurses to other Asians because of their English proficiency, neatness and caring service.
He said the three- to five-year contract pays a starting salary of £22,128 a year, equivalent to Php1.5 million at the current exchange rate, but it’s not tax-free and the worker will have to rent her own room after three months.

He warned that Britain requires applicants to be very proficient in English, as they will have to score no less than 7.0 in the language testing system for migrants who want to work in that country.

He said interested OFWs should first enroll in an IELTS review class before taking the test.

Applicants could enroll in online IELTS review classes, but the fee is a bit steep at about US$390 for a 40-hour course. The IELTS English proficiency test evaluates a candidate’s reading, writing, listening and skilling (understanding) skills.

Japan is also a potential market for caregivers given the long life expectancy of its citizens, but it requires foreign workers to be able to speak and understand Nihongo, Palmiery said.

The audience cheered when Palmiery said he would set up a Nihongo school in Hong Kong so that OFWs who plan to apply for caregiver positions in Japan do not have to go home and enroll in language schools there.

He said he is just waiting for the signing of a bilateral agreement between the Philippines and Japan that would open this new opportunity for Filipino caregivers.

Second autopsy rules out foul play in Pinay’s fatal fall in Shenzhen

Lorain Asuncion

By Vir B. Lumicao

A forensics report on the comprehensive second autopsy on the remains of a Filipina maid who died in a fall from a residential tower in Shenzhen in July suggested no foul play, supporting a similar finding by the police on the mainland.

Relatives of the deceased expressed hope the findings would not adversely affect Hong Kong police investigation of the maid’s employers in connection with the tragedy.

The autopsy findings by the Center of Forensic Science Guangdong Medical University indicated the deceased, Lorain Escorial Asuncion, 28 and single, died from multiple organ injury and massive blood loss.

The findings appeared to support an earlier conclusion by the Shenzhen Public Security Bureau that the Filipina died from falling.

The English translation of the five-page forensic report was handed by the Department of Foreign Affairs to Jenevieve A. Javier, the elder sibling of Asuncion, on Oct 13. 

Javier said a DFA officer who turned over the findings said Asuncion’s remains might be released and repatriated before the end of October.

“Sana lumabas ang katotohanan…ang sa amin lang, magbigay sila ng ebidensiya na ginawa talaga niya yung sinasabi ng amo na nag-commit siya ng suicide,” Javier told The SUN in an online message.

The report said that while Asuncion’s face was intact with no deformity of the skull and face, her chest had collapsed and was deformed with several broken ribs that pierced her left lung, causing it to rupture and bleed. Her upper left arm also broke and her right foot was deformed, possibly on impact.

The report also said that no foreign matter was found in her uterine cavity, indicating no sexual assault.

An initial Shenzhen police autopsy of the victim’s body in August also ruled out foul play and classified Asuncion’s case as “death by falling”.

But her relatives doubted the initial report because Asuncion’s face was intact, which they thought was inconsistent with her having fallen from the 22^nd storey flat of her female employer’s father in Longgang District.

The Filipina had traveled to Shenzhen on July 22 this year on her employers’ instructions to join them in their summer vacation there. But when she got there, her employers Gu Huaiyi, his wife Ms Liu their children had gone to other parts of China and the helper was forced to stay in the house Liu Heping, her employer’s father.

The next morning, the elder Liu called the police to report that the Filipina had gone missing but her belongings were in his flat. A day later, Liu again called the police to say he had found Asuncion’s body in the garden below his flat.

The maid’s employers were arrested by Hong Kong police in August and were being investigated allegedly for violation of immigration rules in connection with taking their helper to work across the border.

They were released on police bail but were due to report to the police headquarters any day now for further investigation. 

Sources at the Consulate told The SUN Hong Kong investigators were also awaiting the result of the second autopsy.  

HK Filcom supports divorce in PHL

Members of the Committee on Population and Family Relations listen to the views of Filipinos in Hong Kong.

By Daisy CL Mandap

It’s been a long time coming.

This was the overwhelming response from Filipino community leaders in Hong Kong, as they expressed support for a divorce law during a public hearing conducted by the Philippine House of Representatives at the Consulate on Oct. 1.

Of about a dozen leaders who spoke at the hearing led by Rep. Sol Aragones, chair of the Committee on Population and Family Relations, only two spoke out against allowing divorce.

Everyone else, from those representing militant organizations like Unifil-Migrante HK to non government organizations Mission for Migrant Workers, sectoral groups like Hong Kong Musicians Union, and media companies like The SUN, openly supported a divorce law.

Joining Aragones at the public hearing were House deputy speakers Pia Cayetano and Raneo Abu, committee vice chairperson Ma. Lourdes R. Aggabao, and representatives Teddy Baguilat, Jr., Emmi de Jesus and Aniceto Bertiz III.

Consul General Bernardita Catalla expressed gratitude that the first public consultation on divorce outside of the Philippines, was held in Hong Kong.

“Ibig sabihin ay binibigyan tayo ng importansiya ng ating gobyerno, lalo na sa napaka importanteng issue na ito, lalong lalo na sa mga OFWs, lalo na sa Hong Kong,” she said.

Congen Catalla said there’s a growing number of overseas Filipino workers in Hong Kong who are seeking an annulment of their marriage. For the past two years at least, she said between three and five OFWs submit documents for notarization by the Consulate, to support such applications.

Another indication was that the legal issues often brought up by OFWs during outreach consultations in Hong Kong by lawyers of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines pertain to annulment, legal separation, property dissolution and custody over children.

Seven House bills were presented to the Filipino community for consideration, but only two provided for absolute divorce.

The first, authored by Rep. Edcel C. Lagman, proposed adopting the current grounds for legal separation under art 55, and annulment of marriage under art 45 of the Family Code, as grounds for absolute divorce.

His bill also points out that the Philippines has a long history of divorce, and it was outlawed only in 1950 when the Family Code was introduced.

The other divorce bill filed jointly by Gabriela representatives Emmi de Jesus and Arlene Brosas is more liberal, in that it also allows for a no-fault divorce, when the spouses have been legally separated for at least five years.

This writer said in her submission that the Gabriela bill appeared to be the best solution to ending a marriage without much difficulty and expense, as it avoids the ticklish question of ascertaining who between the spouses is at fault.

However, a three-year separation instead of five might be enough for a married couple to know if they really want out of their union.

This author also called for having a divorce law that is inexpensive and fast, to better serve OFWs who are hard-pressed for money, and do not have a lot of time to spend attending court hearings and talking to lawyers.

Cynthia Abdon, who represented the Mission for Migrant Workers, attested to the big number of OFWs with family problems. Of the 2,000 cases referred to them each year, she said between 8 and 10% pertain to family relationships.

She also spoke of women OFWs who are forced to endure years of abuse or infidelity because divorce is out of their reach.

“This is an issue dear to women migrants as it seriously affects their ability to be productive members of society. This is an issue that will instill in women migrants that there is hope after a terrible marriage. This an issue that will uphold what is just and right,” she said.

The most vocal opposition to divorce came from the representative of Chaplaincy for Filipinos in
Hong Kong. 

She said divorce would encourage couples to be lax in their commitment to their marriage, that it would lead to abuses, especially of women, and it would encourage infidelity and affect the emotional and moral formation of the children.

At the end of the three-hour hearing, Rep. Cayetano said they will consider conducting another public consultation overseas to have a better idea of what overseas Filipinos think about divorce.

‘Coins for Bethune’ drive raises a record $56,000

This year’s “Coins for Bethune” fundraising project for the Bethune House Migrant Women’s Refuge has made more than $56,000 so far, with the amount set to increase as some 10 collection receptacles are still to be returned.

The amount collected in less than three months since the fundraiser was launched appears to be a record, as the highest collection to date was set in 2011, the year the campaign was launched, with about $50,000 being raised.

Donations cans were distributed last June 4, and collected during Bethune House’s 31st anniversary celebration on Sept. 17 at Chater Road.

Edwina Antonio, executive director of Bethune House, thanked supporters of “Coins for Bethune” for their generosity and continued patronage of the two shelters operated by the NGO Mission for Migrant Workers.

Participants in the fund-raising drive turn over their cans of coins to Bethune House.

“We are so happy! We raised more than $56,000 from the cans and individual donations! The funds will help support the regular programs of Bethune House. It takes a community to shelter migrants in need,” Antonio said in a Facebook post.

In a speech at the shelter’s anniversary cocktails and fundraising event at KUC Space in Jordan on Sept 30, she said Bethune House “has tirelessly pursued creative ways to secure funding for its many initiatives,” foremost of which is providing shelter to distressed migrant women workers.

She said Bethune House’s shelters had been fully occupied these past few weeks as the number of domestic workers pursuing labor and other cases after being terminated had risen.

“Shelter is still a primary need because of the continuous increase in the number of terminations and contract violations as well as violence against domestic workers,” Antonio said.

“Increasing the capacity of the shelter to attend to needs contribute to the empowerment of the residents as well as in strengthening their capacity to cope with their cases and issues that affect their situations in Hong Kong,” she added. – Vir B. Lumicao

Ex-labatt Julve feted in HK on retirement

A select group of friends of the Philippines’ former attaché to Hong Kong Bernardino Julve gathered on Oct 7 at The Port in Lan Kwai Fong, Central, for a post-birthday and retirement celebration in his honor.

Julve, who retired as a commissioner of the National Labour Relations Commission on reaching the age of 65 last month, thanked all the guests and reminisced how Hong Kong provided him with his most rewarding experience as a labor envoy.

Among those who came were current Labor Attache Jalilo dela Torre and the honoree’s friends from the militant migrants sector, media, charitable organizations, the media, and close family members.

Julve recalled how he risked being declared persona non grata in the city, along with the late Ambassador Domingo Lucenario, Jr. (who was then deputy consul general in Hong Kong) when they joined a rally to protest against a cut in the salary of migrant workers here.

Former Labor Attache Bernardino Julve returned to Hong Kong recently to celebrate with friends and family his 65th birthday and to mark his retirement from government service. Speakers took their turns giving tribute to his being accommodating when he was labatt. The party was held at the Port, a Filipino-owned restobar in Lan Kwai Fong. 

He also expressed gratitude for the many friends he made during his record six-year stint in Hong Kong, noting they came from all walks of life and profession.

A pivotal moment in his stay was his undergoing liver transplant at Queen Mary Hospital, when he hovered between life and death as family and friends prayed for his recovery.

Julve first served abroad in Rome, before moving to Hong Kong.

After a mandatory recall to the Department of Labor and Employment’s head office in Manila, he was posted in British Columbia in Canada where he stayed for six years.

He returned briefly to DoLE in 2014 before being appointed as NLRC Commissioner.
Julve shuttles between Manila and Hong Kong, where he has acquired permanent residency.- DCLM

Foreign investments down

The Philippine economy is beginning to suffer the adverse effects of the Duterte administration’s policies.

During a Senate hearing last week on the 2018 proposed budget of the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda), Senator Franklin Drilon expressed concerns over “a significant deceleration in the influx of new investments” or equity placements.

This prompted the Neda to issue a statement on October 10, claiming that foreign investors remained confident in doing business in the Philippines, a view echoed by Presidential Adviser on Entrepreneurship Jose Ma. Concepcion 3rd.

But on the same day, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reported that net foreign direct investments (FDI) slumped to their lowest level in over a year in July on the back of a steep drop in funds channeled into debt instruments.

At $307 million, the net inflow for the month was 37.9 percent lower compared to July last year and was also the smallest since June 2016’s $238 million.

The Bangko Sentral said this was mainly on account of a 74.3-percent decline in investments in debt instruments, to $105 million from $407 million, which outweighed a more than five-fold increase in net equity capital.

Net equity capital, at $131 million in July, was 470 percent higher compared to the $23 million posted a year earlier. Equity capital placements totaled $170 million, outpacing the $39 million in withdrawals during the month.

The bulk of inflows came from Singapore, the United States, the Netherlands, Japan and Taiwan, the central bank said.

The funds were channeled primarily into manufacturing; real estate; wholesale and retail trade; finance and insurance; and electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply activities.

Reinvested earnings, meanwhile, grew by 11.5 percent to $71 million.

July’s slump weighed on net FDI flows for the first seven months of 2017, which fell by 16.5 percent year on year to $3.9 billion. The Bangko Sentral said this was due to an 81.5-percent decline in net equity capital to $272 million.

Placements during the period came mostly from Singapore, the United States, Japan, Hong Kong and the Netherlands.

Net placements in debt instruments expanded by 13.9 percent to $3.14 billion from $2.76 billion.

Reinvested earnings reached $487 million, up 9.3 percent.

The Bangko Sentral raised its 2017 net FDI forecast to $8 billion in June, from $7 billion previously, citing improved domestic indicators and expected global uptick.

Duterte’s economic managers are pushing for the approval of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) bill as a crucial component of the government’s massive infrastructure program, “Build Build Build.”

Cabinet officials have also been drumming up investor interest via briefings overseas, with the next leg to be held in New York with Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto M. Pernia, Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno and Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III in attendance.

Pinay saved after filming herself drinking bleach

By The SUN staff

Ann posted this picture on FB before filming
herself drinking the bleach

A Filipina domestic helper who has apparently overstayed her visa in Hong Kong reportedly tried to kill herself by gulping down a gallon of bleach on Oct. 10, and even recorded her act on video.

Reports from her friends said Ann A. was taken to a hospital in the New Territories shortly after her suicide bid at about 1pm, but as of this writing, no one could say for sure where she was.

About four hours after she sent the video of her downing the bleach to a friend, this message appeared on Ann's Facebook account: OK lang ako, wag kayo mag-alala,” the post read.

Later, Ann said in her native Ilonggo dialect that she was so depressed that she seemed to have lost her mind.

“Thank you gid sa kabalaka ninyo. May second life pa ako,” (Thanks for all your concern. I got a new lease on life”), she added.

Ann, a mother of three young girls and a native of Cabatuan, Iloilo, videoed herself gulping down the bleach, her mouth frothing from the liquid that flowed down her chin.

She sent the video to a neighbor friend, who then shared it in a group chat, until it reached the RMN radio station in Iloilo, which posted a blurred copy on its Facebook page. .

A caption story that accompanied the posted video said Ann had a spat with her husband last Sunday, making her decide to end her life.

One of her fellow Ilonggos who contacted the assistance to nationals section of the Consulate reported that Ann’s last contract ended in June this year.

She appears not to have submitted a new contract, suggesting she has been staying in Hong Kong illegally since.

Ann is reportedly staying at a boarding house in Kamtin, Yuen Long.

Ethnic minorities in Hong Kong rally for equality

by The SUN team

Children were among the protesters who called for equality. Photo by Danilo Reyes

 A group of ethnic minority residents, along with some local supporters, staged a protest yesterday, Oct. 8, to call for the elimination of “long-standing inequality” in Hong Kong’s education, employment and medical services.

The protesters, who included children, marched to the Central Government Offices in Tamar to urge Chief Executive Carrie Lam to help improve their plight.

They presented a petition which listed a 14-point demand, including fair admission in kindergartens, better Chinese language support for EM students in local schools, and de-segration in the public school system.

The rally was held ahead of the maiden policy speech of Hong Kong’s top official on Wednesday, Oct. 11.

Government statistics from last year showed that 8,056 children from the Philippines, Indonesia, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Thailand and other parts of Asia – excluding China and Japan – were in primary schools.

Equality in education was a major concern. Photo by Danilo Reyes

The number dropped to 3,493 in high schools and 2,313 in tertiary institutions, accounting from just 30 percent of Hong Kong’s young people aged 15 to 24 from the listed countries.

In contrast, more than 73 percent of Chinese youth in this age group were in high schools and tertiary institutions.

Outside the government’s  headquarters, the protesters shouted “We love Hong Kong, we are Hongkongers, we are Hong Kong’s future” in both English and Cantonese.

They said that because EM kids struggle to speak Chinese, they encounter difficulty in getting into good schools or obtaining better paying jobs, as many employers require job applicants to have attained a certain level of proficiency in Cantonese or Mandarin.

Some of the protesters said that even getting accepted into a kindergarten is difficult because young non-locals do not speak Chinese. The language problem continues as they try to get a place in prestigious elementary or secondary schools, or university.

Local supporters of the group said there is also a need to provide support for EMs who need medical care, or jobs.

Public hospitals should employ interpreters to prevent EMs being excluded from public health care because of the language barriers, while the Labour Department should have staff who will assist EMs in securing a job.

In response, the government through the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau, said it will continue working with the Equal Opportunities Commission in building a “pluralistic and inclusive society which is free from discrimination”.

‘Cheerful’ Rose is home for good

By Daisy CL Mandap

Happy is the word that first comes to mind when one meets Rosalinda Pineda, a longtime leader of the Filipino Catholic Group at St Joseph’s church in Central. No matter the task at hand, no matter who she was working with, Pineda, who is “Mommy Rose” to most of her younger church mates, seemed to be always cheerful and calmly in command.

Rose Pineda with Father Midas in one of the church gatherings.

Now the ray of sunshine that lit up many a Sunday at St Joseph’s has shifted its glow farther afield, in Iloilo to be more precise, because that’s where 61-year-old Pineda has moved since Sept. 17 this year.

After working with just three employers in the 30-odd years that she was in Hong Kong, Pineda decided it was time to go back home, to be with her two children and four grandchildren.

But rest is still far from her mind, as she gladly shared that she was offered to run a school canteen near her home. This new project draws her back to one of her lifelong passions – cooking – and she cannot feel any happier.

“Ito talaga ang gusto kong gawin,” she told this writer a day before saying her final goodbye to the place she had called home for three decades.

For now, though, she is happy enough to just take it easy and enjoy the fruit of the hard work she did, albeit cheerfully, all those years.

“As of now pahinga muna, mag-enjoy sa bonding sa mga apo,” she said in response to a follow-up message on how she has been doing since settling back home.

She has reasons to feel good. Her two children whom she raised single-handedly after becoming widowed at age 30 are both doing well in their chosen professions, and Pineda herself has saved enough to be financially comfortable in her retirement.

Seeing her now, one could hardly guess that her first years abroad were fraught with heartaches.

Soon after she came to Hong Kong to work for a relative, her husband who was working as a security guard, was stabbed to death by a drug-crazed junkie back in their hometown. That left Pineda having to choose between going back home to raise her two kids, or staying put in Hong Kong so she could earn enough to provide for their needs.

Her dilemma deepened when a rich relative offered to adopt her kids. Pineda was torn between the idea of letting go of her kids so they could have a better future, or keeping them with her, despite the difficulties she was forced to deal with in the wake of her husband’s death.

What she did was to ask her young children to make their own sacrifices so they could stay together. The two kids stayed on in their house and did all the chores, and were just joined by a sister of Pineda during the night.

Another test came in the form of an offer from a relative to introduce Pineda to male friends online, thinking it was time she dated again. This time Pineda said she turned to one of the priest friends at St Joseph’s for advice, and was told to just concentrate on raising her kids.

She complied, and now says it was one of the best decisions she has ever made.

After a rough first contract in Hong Kong during which she said she was paid only $700, about half the prescribed monthly salary then, Pineda looked for a new employer. Her luck turned when she was hired by a kindly French couple.

At a time when calling long distance cost a lot of money, Pineda said her French employer let her use their telephone to keep in touch with her children regularly, without charge. Her employers also took her along with them when they’d go to France on extended vacation. But after 10 years, the family had to move back to their home country and Pineda had to look for another employer.

Pineda still remembers the time 16 years ago when was interviewed by the Irish man who would become her next employer. She recalled with a smile that she was the 30-odd applicant to be called, not so much for an interview, but for an oral test and a practicum. She was made to demonstrate her table setting skills and ability to craft a menu for a dinner party, both of which she passed handily because she took pains to learn them on her own while working for her previous employers.

The contract with her Irish-Filipino employers was to be renewed seven more times, with  Pineda going along with them and their beloved pet dogs, as they moved from one lavish house to another over the years. With the advent of social media, she took to posting the culinary creations she served to her employers and their guests, not to brag or whine, but to take delight in what she managed to whip up each time.

But it was not just cooking she did with passion, but every chore that came with the job. She shared that one of her last “bilins” to her employer Harry, was to make sure his next help would iron his shirts thoroughly from the inside and just skim them off on the outside so they don’t lose their sheen. She also proudly proclaimed that she does a lot of hand-washing because it helps keep the shape and color of clothes.

“See this shirt that I am wearing? I bought it years ago for just $10, pero mukha pa ring bago,” she said, obviously pleased with herself.

It is another trait that endears Pineda to many. Despite the opulent lifestyle she was exposed to in the last 26 years of her stay in Hong Kong, Pineda remained the simple Ilonggo woman she was when she first arrived. She dressed as simply and as frugally as before, and never took on the ostentatious airs of many of her peers who thrive on reflected luxury from their employers.

This mindset helped her focus on what she worked abroad for: provide for the basic needs of her children, and save enough for the inevitable return home.

She also had the foresight to put money in an insurance plan that by the time she was ready to cash in on her investment before returning home, she managed to collect a tidy sum that surprised even her employer.

“I told Harry that part of my medical bills was paid for by this insurance; yung kulang lang yung sinisingil ko sa kanya,” said Pineda.

Loans, which blight many an OFW’s life in Hong Kong, was not in her radar, as she made sure she always had something set aside for emergencies. Spending much of her time in church also helped her stay on the straight and narrow, Pineda said.

She did manage to stray far enough, though, to join two related organizations, the cancer support group Buhay Ka, and Filcomsin, made up of many of her long-time friends in the community.

Pineda could have gone further afield, and become the community leader who could rightfully lecture to her fellow migrant workers on how to make the most of their stay abroad. But she did not, preferring instead to leave as quietly as she had lived in Hong Kong for three decades.

For Pineda, there was simply no reason to veer off the path that kept her fulfilled – and more importantly, happy.

May panlaban ang Pilipinas sa Oscars

Napili ng Film Academy of the Philippines ang independent film na “Birdshot” bilang official entry ng Pilipinas sa Best Foreign Language sa Oscars na gaganapin sa March, 2018.

Nauna rito, nanalong best picture ang Birdshot sa Asian Future Film section ng 2016 Tokyo International Film Festival, at nanalo rin Critic’s Choice awards sa nakaraang Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino (PPP).

Pinangungunahan nina John Arcilla, Arnold Reyes, Mary Joy Apostol at Manuel Aquino, ang Birdshot ay mula sa direksyon ng 24- taong gulang na si Mikhail Red. Ito ay co- produced ng indie film company na TBA Studios, na nag-produce din ng Heneral Luna, na naging entry ng Pilipinas sa Oscars noong 2015.

CAMILLE NAGANAK NA
Isinilang ni Camille Prats ang pangalawa niyang anak, isang malusog na baby girl noong Sept. 22 sa St Luke’s Medical Center sa Bonifacio Global City sa Taguig City. Pinangalanang Nala Camilla, ito ay panganay nilang anak ni VJ Yambao.
Ang caption sa mga litratong inilabas ni Camille:  “Your much awaited arrival has finally come. World, meet our princess, Nala Camilla Prats Yambao. Born on September 22, 2017 at 8:36pm, 7.3lbs. Thank you God for the gift of life and for being my comforter all throughout my birthing journey. My Love, thanks for being with me every step of the way. Seeing how happy and elated you are upon seeing our baby girl is priceless. I will forever embed that memory in my heart.
Finally you are in our arms baby girl”.
Bukod kay VJ at Nathan, ang panganay ni Camille sa namayapang asawa niyang si Anthony Linsangan, dumalaw din ang kuya ni Camille na si John Prats, kasama ang asawang si Isabel Oli at kanilang anak na si Feather Lily.
Samantala, tatay na rin si Geoff Eigenmann nang isilang ng kanyang girlfriend na si Maya (Angeli Mae Flores ang tunay na pangalan) ang kanilang baby girl  noong Sept. 23.
Agad na nag-post si Gina Alajar sa kanyang IG account “Maraming maraming salamat, Panginoong Diyos sa ibinigay mong kaligtasan kay Maya at sa aking bagong apong si Arabella Simone Eigenmann. Congratulations, Geoff and Maya. 9-23-2017, this is the day that the Lord has made!!

SARAH AT RICHARD, MAGKAKA-BABY ULIT
Masayang ibinalita nina Richard Gutierrez at Sarah Lahbati na masusundan na ang panganay nilang anak na si Zion, 4. Sa Instagram account ni Sarah, ipinost niya ang larawan nila nina Richard at Zion, na may caption na: We are thrilled to announce that our little family is growing. Zion is about to be a kuya!!!!! So excited for the future. Lord, thank you for protecting us. I’m very much pregnant... back pains, breakouts, HAKAW DIM SUM CRAVINGS, cramps, mood swings, ANNOYANCE AT IBA PA!!! Raise your hand if you can relate!!! Shoutout to all the super moms out there. The silver lining to this craziness is that there’s a healthy baby growing inside of me who I’m very much excited to meet next year. :) Do you think we’re having a boy or girl?
Ang caption naman ni Richard: “Thank you to my love (Sarah Lahbati) for staying strong and patient despite my hectic schedule, she’s able to take care of me, Zion and our little one on the way, she’s truly a super mom”.
Noong August 1 ay ipinahayag nina Richard at Sarah ang kanilang engagement sa kanilang show na “It Takes Gutz To Be a Gutierrez”, pero wala pang binanggit na petsa ng kanilang kasal.
Samantala, maliban kay Sarah, buntis din ang mga sumusunod: Nikki Gil, Pokwang, Isabelle Daza, Bangs Garcia, Pauleen Luna-Sotto, Kaye Abad, Maricar de Mesa, LJ Moreno – Alapag, Nikka Garcia (asawa ni Patrick Garcia), Karel Marquez, Regine Angeles, Alyanna Martinez (anak ni Albert Martinez), Erika Padilla at Michelle Madrigal.

LUIS, MAN OF HONOR SA KASAL NI ANNE
Matagal nang magkaibigan sina Luis Manzano at Anne Curtis mula nang teenagers pa sila, at napabalita pang niligawan noon ni Luis si Anne. Hindi man sila naging magkasintahan, naging mabuting magkaibigan naman sila. Ayon kay Luis, nagkasundo na sila noon na magiging abay ang bawat isa sa kanila kapag ikinasal sila.
Kamakailan ay nakatanggap na raw ng sulat si Luis mula kay Anne na nagsasaad na “may promise tayo sa isa’t isa, and would you be my man of honor sa kasal ko?” Ikakasal si Anne kay Erwan Heussaff sa taong ito, at bukod kay Luis, siguradong nasa wedding entourage din ang kapatid ni Anne na si Jasmine Curtis-Smith, ang kapatid ni Erwan na si Solenn, at ang mga barkada nilang sina Georgina Wilson, Isabelle Daza at Raymond Gutierrez. Tiyak ding naroon si Vicki Belo, Hayden Kho at bibong anak nilang si Scarlet Snow.
Bilang pagtupad sa pangako, kapag ikinasal si Luis ay si Anne din ang kanyang magiging best woman, pero sa ngayon ay malabo pang matuloy ito bagama’t tila seryoso naman siya sa girlfriend niyang si Jessy Mendiola, 24, at matagal nang humihingi ng apo ang kanyang inang si Vilma Santos. Bata pa raw kasi si Jessy, at marami pang pwedeng gawin sa buhay. Samantala sa kanyang edad na 36 ay handang handa nang mag-asawa si Luis, lalo at financially stable na siya. Matagal na rin daw niyang pangarap ang magkaroon na rin ng sariling pamilya, gaya ng karamihan ng kanyang mga kaibigan. Sa ngayon ay abala si Luis sa kanyang bagong show na “I Can See Your Voice”.

ATOM, KAPUSO NA
Balik-Kapuso ang sikat na broadcast journalist na si Atom Araullo, at kabilang na sa News and Public Affairs team ng GMA Network. Bago siya naging Kapamilya, naging bahagi siya dati ng 24 Oras, at may sariling segment na ATOMic Sports, at noong bata pa ay napasama sa programang 5 and Up.
“I’m very excited. Ang dami kong gustong gawin, particularly in the realm of documentary production. I think this is a great place to do all of that,” ang sabi ni Atom.
Naging mainit ang pagtanggap ng GMA Network Chairman at CEO Atty. Felipe Gozon kay Atom.

Ex-DH jailed for overstaying 9 years after divorce

By Vir B. Lumicao

A former domestic helper who missed a chance to change her immigration status when she married a Hong Kong man over a decade ago, realized her mistake only recently.

Merle dela Luna, 58 years old, was sentenced to seven months in jail by a magistrate in Shatin Court on Sept 15 for overstaying for nine years after her divorce.

“Defendant, I take into account all the facts of the case. You overstayed for a lengthy period because you were married to a Hong Kong man until you divorced in 2008,” Magistrate Winnie Lau said.

The magistrate reckoned the breach of condition of stay had been for nine years, from 2008 to the time Dela Luna was arrested on Sept 7.

She said she would have jailed the defendant for 10 and a half months, but discounted that by one-third.

The prosecution said the Filipina was arrested in North Point when police discovered during an identity check that she had remained illegally in the city.

Dela Luna pleaded guilty when she appeared in court on Sept 8, but Lau deferred sentencing for a week.

During sentencing on Sept 15, Lau adjourned the hearing for about half an hour after the defense lawyer said his client had disclosed she had been married to a Hong Kong man, a fact that could have an impact on the sentence.

The court heard that the woman came to Hong Kong in 2005 and worked as a domestic helper until June 2007.

She later met the local man who became her husband, but she did not bother to apply for a change of her immigration status by virtue of her marriage.

Satisfying flavors of comfort food

By Jo Campos

There is nothing like home-cooked meals. The personal touch of our mother’s favorite recipes, homegrown ingredients and the aroma of herbs and spices filling the entire kitchen is simply a feel-good everyday experience.

Wikipedia’s definition of the term ”comfort food” has been traced back to at least 1966, when the The Palm Beach Post used it in a story: “Adults, when under severe emotional stress, turn to what could be called ‘comfort food’—food associated with the security of childhood, like mother’s poached eggs or famous chicken soup.

In the Philippines, Nanay’s kare-kare or pinakbet, sinigang and caldereta, to name a few, are considered as comfort food. They are seen to soothe frayed nerves, obliterate negative feelings, and provide a great coping mechanism for those who are under stress.

The identification of particular items as comfort food may be idiosyncratic, though there are detectable patterns. In one study of American preferences, “males preferred warm, hearty, meal-related comfort foods, such as steak, casseroles, and soup”. On the other hand, females and younger people, or those below 55 years of age, preferred snack-related treats, such as chocolate and ice cream.

The study also revealed strong connections between consumption of comfort foods and feelings of guilt. An article, “The Myth of Comfort Food” asserted that men tend to choose these types of savory comfort foods because they remind them of being “pampered” or spoiled, while women choose snack-related foods because they are associated with low amounts of work and less “cleanup.” It also suggested that women are more likely to reach for unhealthier foods in times of stress due to more weight-conscious mindsets.

Restaurants and fast food chains serving comfort foods are usually among the best sellers. It somehow brings back the nostalgic feeling of eating at home. For this issue, I am sharing some easy to make- hassle free comfort food recipes from Delish website that I have cooked, and one of the most requested dishes from my f JC The Foodie Catering Services: beef caldereta.

But wait, there’s more! Starting this issue, I am inserting JC The Foodie quotes for inspiration and good vibes.

“This is my advice to people: Learn how to cook, try new recipes, learn from your mistakes, be fearless, and above all have fun”-Julia Child


Fettuccine Alfredo

Ingredients:
• lb. fettuccine
• kosher salt
• 1/2 c. butter
• 1/2 c. heavy cream
• 1/2 c. freshly grated parmesan, plus more for sprinkling
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp. chopped parsley

Procedure:
1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water then drain.
2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, add cream and butter. Cook until the butter is melted and the cream is heated through. Whisk in parmesan and season with salt and pepper. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, 1 tablespoon at a time. Remove from heat.
3. Add cooked pasta and toss until coated in sauce. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Salisbury Steak

Ingredients:
For the patties:
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup bread crumbs
• 1 tbsp. ketchup
• 1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

For the gravy
• 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 sprigs thyme
• 1/2 c. mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp. tomato paste
• 1 c. beef stock
• kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Procedure:
1. Make patties: In a large bowl, combine beef, egg, bread crumbs, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce and garlic. Season with salt and pepper and form into 4 oval patties.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Sear both sides of the patties until a crust forms, about 5 minutes per side. Remove onto a plate.
3. Make gravy: Wipe out skillet and add butter. Add onions and thyme and stir until onion becomes translucent. Add mushrooms and cook until browned and tender, about 4 minutes. Sprinkle onions and mushrooms with flour, and stir until they are fully coated. Cook another 2 minutes, then add Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and beef stock. Stir to combine and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring the gravy to a simmer and return the patties to the skillet. Cover and cook for 10 to 15 more minutes, until the patties are done and the sauce has thickened. Plate the patties and top with more gravy. Serve.

Beef Caldereta

Ingredients:
• 1 kilo beef brisket
• carrots, cut into cubes
• potatoes, cut into cubes
• red and green bell peppers, sliced
• green peas
• black olives
• 2 onions, chopped
• garlic, crushed
• 2 tbsp. paprika
• 2 tbsp. chili powder
• bay leaves
• salt and pepper
• chopped tomatoes in can
• Worcestershire sauce
• 3 tbsp. soy sauce
• fresh or dried thyme
• 1 small can liver spread or pate

Procedure:
1. Cut beef brisket into cubes.
2. In a large Ziploc bag, combine paprika, salt and pepper, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, ½ of the chopped onion and garlic, some chopped bell peppers and a piece of bay leaf.
3. Add the beef brisket to the mixture in the plastic bag and rub well to cover the meat. Seal the bag and leave to marinate for a few hours or preferably overnight.
4. Lightly fry potatoes and carrots, set aside.
5. In a large pan, sauté onion and garlic, add marinated beef and cook till brown. Add chopped tomatoes, thyme and bay leaf. Adjust seasoning by adding more paprika, chili powder accordingly. Stir in liver spread.
6. Add enough water to cover the meat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer till the meat is tender.
7. Add olives, carrots and potatoes, then continue to simmer until the sauce is reduced and has thickened slightly.
8. Add green peas and bell peppers; then stir all ingredients together.
9. Serve hot.

Sulyap sa sentro ng Forbidden City

Ni Marites Palma

Ang Forbidden City, kabilang na ang Great Wall, ang dalawa sa pinakasikat na puntahan ng mga turista sa China. Hindi madaling marating ang mga ito, dahil bukod sa kailangan ng visa ay aabot sa apat na oras ang biyahe sa eroplano, doble ng lipad papunta ng Maynila.

Pero mula ngayon hanggang Oct 15, may pagkakataon na ang mga nasa Hong Kong na masilayan ang isa sa pinakamahalagang parte ng Forbidden City, ang Hall of Mental Cultivation of the Palace Museum, kung saan tumira ang walong emperador ng Tsina. At ito ay sa halagang $20 lamang.

Paano? Pumunta lang sa Hong Kong Heritage Museum sa Shatin para masulyapan ang marangyang bulwagang ito kung saan tumira ang mga sumusunod na emperador ng Tsina: Yong Zheng, Qian Long, Jiaqing, Daoguang, Zianteng, Tongzhi, Guangzu at Xuantong. Tiyak na hindi mapipigilan na mapa “wow” sa ganda ng mga sinaunang gamit na makikita dito, na siguradong limpak-limpak na salapi na ang halaga.

Ang orihinal na Hall of Mental Cultivation sa Beijing ay siyang susi sa pamamahala ng dating kaharian. Kasalukuyan itong sumasailalim sa pagsasaayos kaya ang may humigit kumulang 200 na mga mahahalagang gamit dito na mula pa noong Qing Dynasty ay dinala sa isang touring exhibition sa iba’t-ibang lugar, kasama na ang Hong Kong.

Kabilang sa mahahalagang gamit na makikita ang mga sumusunod: “cloisonne hotpot with floral pattern”, Qing Dynasty 1644-1911; “gold chalice of eternal stability inlaid with gemstones”, Qianlong period 1736-1795, Qing Dynasty; “plaque calligraphic inscription, “Room of Three Rarities”, Emperor Qianlong 1711-1799; “jade seal with characters “Valued Collection of Emperor Tongzhi’s Veneration of His Parents”, Tongzhi period 1862-1874, Qing Dynasty; “gourd-shaped wall vase with familie-rose flowers and poem in reversed panels with gilded floral scroll pattern on blue ground,” Qianlong period, 1736-1795, Qing dynasty.

Ang Hall of Mental Cultivation ay itinayo sa panahon ni Emperor Jiajing noong taong 1557 sa panahon ng Ming dynasty, at inayos muli sa Qing dynasty. Una itong ginawang pahingahan ng mga emperador hanggang naisipan ni Emperor Yongzheng ng Qing dynasty na tumira dito. Magmula noon hanggang matapos ang Qing dynasty ay dito na tumira ang mga emperador.

Ang pangalang Hall of Mental Cultivation ay hango sa tinuran ni Mencius sa Chapter of Dedication: “Leading a frugal life is the best way to cultivate the mind.”

Sa orihinal nitong lugar sa gitna ng Forbidden City ay matatagpuan ang bulwagan sa kanlurang bahagi ng palasyo ng Heavenly Purity. Ito ay itinayong symmetrical o balanse ang bawat parte, at ang pangunahing gusali nito ay binubuo ng pangharap at panglikod na bulwagan.

Binubuo ito ng pitong bahagi, at ang pinakauna ay ang Central Hall kung saan dating nagtitipon-tipon ang mga opisyal kasama ang emperador, para pag-usapan ang kalagayan ng kaharian.

Ang pangalawa ay ang West Warmth Chamber kung saan pinag-uusapan ang mga pang-araw araw na pangangasiwa sa gobyerno. Sa panahon ng panunungkulan ni Emperador Qianlong, ang mga pangalan ng mga opisyal na may ranggong general governor, provincial governor, district magistrate, military rank ng general at garrison commander ay makikita sa West Gate ng bahaging ito. Sa kanlurang pader naman ay ang listahan ng mga posisyon sa gobyerno sa buong bansa at ang paraan ng pagpili sa mga itiatalagang opisyal. Sa panahon ng masipag na emperador na si Yongzheng na natutulog lamang ng apat na oras kada araw ay nakalikha siya ng 92,000 na dokumento at nakapagsulat ng mga pambihirang katha na umabot sa 10 milyon na salita.

Sa pangatlong bahagi naman ng bulwagan ay makikita ang Room of Three Rarities, kung saan nag-aaral si Emperor  Qianlong. Hango ang pangalan nito sa tatlong katangian ng isang iskolar, ayon sa Song Dynasty Confucian scholar na si Zhou Dunyi. Mayroong tatlong mahahalagang piraso ng calligraphy na matatagpuan dito: ang “Timely Clearing after Snowfall” ni Wang Zizhi; “Note on Mid-autum” ni Wang Xianzhi, at” A Letter to Boyuan” ni Wan Xun. Ang napakaingat na pagkakaayos ng mga ito ay napanatili simula pa noong naging emperador si Qianlong na sumikat dahil sa pagkahilig sa mga wall vases na pinong pino ang pagkakagawa. Ayon sa kuwento, may 13 ganitong puswelo na maingat na dinadala ng mga taga palasyo tuwing dumadalaw si Qianlong sa Katimugan. Isinasabit ang mga ito sa sedan chair kaya sumikat ang ito sa tawag na “sedan chairvases”.

Sa pang-apat na bahagi ay makikita ang East Warm Chamber, na ayon sa sikat na French missionary at historian na si Jean-Francois Gerbillon, ay inilaan sa mga pintor, iskultor , tagalilok at iba pang mga artist ng palasyo sa panahon ni Emperor Kangxi. Sa panahon naman ni Emperor Yongzheng ay ginaganap dito ang seremonya para sa pagsusulat. Ang sikretong pamumuno ni Empress Dowager Cixi  noong panahon ng Qing dynasty ay dito rin naganap.

Sa panlimang bahagi naman ay nakapaloob ang Immortals Pagoda Buddhist Hall, kung saan nananalangin at nagninilay-nilay ang mga emperador. Ipinagawang muli ito noong taong 1746 hanggang 1747 para sa pagdarasal ni Emperor Qianlong. Ang pitong palapag na Amitabha Pagoda ay nakatindig sa gitna ng kwartong ito na parang isang mandala. Sa lahat ng naging emperador sa Qing Dynasty si Qianlong lamang ang pinakaaktibo sa kanyang pagsamba bilang Tibetan Buddhism. Maliban sa paghango niya ng mga Buddhist scriptures ay isinagawa din niya ang pag-iipon at pagsasaling-wika ng maraming literary classics ng Tibetan Buddhism, at nagpatayo din siya ng maraming templo sa loob at labas ng palasyo.

Ang pang anim na bahagi ay siyang tulugan ng mga emperador. Mayroong limang haligi sa bawat sulok. Ang likod na bahagi ng Hall of Mental Cultivation ay konektado sa harapang bahagi sa pamamagitan ng isang lagusan kung saan makikita hanggang ngayon ang pinakatulugan ng emperador. Sa itaas na bahagi ng higaan ay may plake kung saan nakalilok ang salitang Intsik na ang kahulugan ay “panibagong araw”. Sa ibaba ng plake ay nakasulat naman ang katagang “fortitude of heaven” o panggalan ng langit. Ang kanlurang bahagi ay ginagamit na hugasan, bihisan at kuhanan ng tsaa. Dito makikita na ang kaharian sa panahong ng Qing dynasty ay nakikilala ang estado ng isang tao base sa mga ginagamit nitong gamit sa pangkain. Iba-iba ang materyal, dibuho, kulay at dami ng gamit, depende sa ranggo ng gumagamit. Ang lahat ng gamit ng emperador ay pasadya, mula sa ginto, pilak, jade, porselana, enamel o ivory.

Sa panghuling bahagi naman makikita ang Imperial Workshop na itinatag noong panahon ni Emperor Kangxi. Ayon na rin sa pangalan ng parteng ito, dito ginagawa ang lahat ng mga gamit ng emperador. Kinakalap ng palasyo ang mga mahuhusay na manlililok sa lahat ng panig ng kaharian para lalong mapaganda ang 61 klase ng produkto na galing lamang sa Imperial Workshop. Ang mga materyales, disenyo, porma at pamamaraan ng paggawa ay ayon lahat sa takda ng kaharian. Mismong si Emperedor Yongzheng ang nagsabi na kailangang mapanatili dito ang mga istriktong pamantayan sa paggawa, at pati na rin ang patuloy na pagtuklas ng mas magandang paraan para sa pagpapadami ng produkto.

Hindi kataka-taka na ang gumagawa ng isang obra maestra ay inoobligahang gumawa muna ng balangkas ng proyekto at humanda para sa anumang puna o panukala ng emperador bago ito isakatuparan.

Ang exhibit ay tatagal ng hanggang Oct. 15. Nakatakdang isagawa ang dalawang family workshop, sa October 1 at 10, para magsilbing inspirasyon sa mga kabataan at kanilang mga magulang na magsabay na pumunta sa exhibit at matuklasan ang ilang mahalagang aspeto ng kanilang kultura. Gagawin ito sa pamamagitan ng laro, kwento, at pagsasadula. Magsisimula ito mula alas tres hanggang alas kuwatro ng hapon sa unang palapag ng museo. Para sa mga katanungan maaring tumawag sa numero bilang 27342178.

Bukas ang museum tuwing Lunes, at mula Miyerkules hanggang Biyernes, 10am-6pm. Tuwing Sabado, Linggo at public holidays ay bukas ito mula 10am-7pm. Sarado ito tuwing Martes.

Ang Hong KongHeritage Museum ay matatagpuan sa  #1 Man Lam Road, Shatin Hong Kong. Maaring tumawag sa numero bilang 21808188 para sa dagdag na kaalaman.

Ang pinakamadaling pagpunta dito ay sa pamamagitan ng pagsakay sa MTR. Bumaba sa Tai Wai station at lumipat ng linya papunta sa Che Kung Mui station. Lumabas sa Exit A at sundan ang direksyon papunta sa museum. Kung bababa sa Shatin station ay kailangang lumakad pa ng mga 15 minuto.

Balik-turo si ma’am

Ni Cris B. Cayat

(Sa nakaraang tatlong buwan ay inilathala namin ang kuwento ng ilang OFW na nagtagumpay sa balak na pagnenegosyo matapos bumalik sa Pilipinas para ipagpatuloy ang naudlot na buhay. Sa isyung ito ay ikukuwento naman naming ang buhay ng isang ex-OFW na matagumpay na nagbalik sa pagtuturo pagkatapos manilbihan sa Hong Kong ng anim na taon).

Si Rowena Jose Dela Cruz at ang kanyang pamilya pagkatapos ng kanilang simba. 

Ang pagiging maparaan ni Rowena Jose dela Cruz ay makikita sa desisyon niya na bumalik na sa Pilipinas noong Agosto ng nakaraang taon pagkatapos ng tatlong kontrata, o anim na taong pagtatrabaho sa Hong Kong.

Hindi biro ang ginawa niyang pagtalikod sa mas malaking kita at mababait na mga amo, kapalit ng pagkakataong makapiling muli ang asawa at nag-iisang anak. Mabuti na lang at sinuportahan ng kanyang mga amo ang kanyang desisyon kaya nakauwi siya nang matiwasay.

Dati nang guro si Rowena sa kanilang lugar sa Quirino bago siya nagdesisyon na mangibang bansa. Sa paglipas ng mahabang panahon ay hindi daw nawala ang kanyang pagnanais na makabalik sa pagtuturo. Kailangan lang niyang mag-ipon ng kaunti para masigurado ang kinabukasan ng kanyang anak.

Mabuti na lang at hindi naging mahirap ang ginawa niyang pagbabalik sa dating propesyon. Isa na siyang permanenteng guro ngayon at adviser ng 32 estudyante sa grade 9 sa Nagtipunan High School na nasa barangay Ponggo, Nagtipunan, Quirino.

Pero hindi dito nagtatapos ang pagnanais niyang mas umusad pa sa minamahal niyang karera dahil kumuha siya ng karagdagang 18 units para sa kanyang masteral degree.

Ang sabi niya, hindi naman talaga sagabal ang kaunting sahod, ang importante ay may direksyon ka. Ang ibig sabihin, matuto kang pagkasyahin ang kung ano lang na mayroon ka.

Gayunpaman, naging malaking tulong din ang pagtaas ng suweldo ng mga guro sa Pilipinas para mahimok siyang umuwi na at magturo ulit.

“My salary is more than enough for my family, though it’s a little bit less than what I was receiving in Hong Kong. But my biggest bonus is I am able to see my kid grow and be with my husband every day,” sabi ni Rowena.

“Masaya ako sa naging desisyon naming mag-asawa na umuwi na lang ako at magtulungan kami gaya ng aming sinumpaan na sa hirap at ginahawa ay magkasama kami.”

Ang asawa niya ay patuloy na tumutulong para mapaganda ang kanilang buhay sa pamamagitan ng pagda-drive, mapa van, jeepney, o kotse man iyon.

Inaamin niya na noong una ay nag-alangan siyang umuwi dahil hindi niya alam kung may babalikan pa siyang trabaho, pero sa kagustuhan niyang makasama ang kanyang pamilya ay nagpursigi siya. Sinamantala niya ang pagkakataon na matuto ng mga bagong kakayahan sa pamamagitan ng pagsali sa iba-ibang pagsasanay para sa pangkabuhayan katulad ng mga regular na isinasagawa ng OWWA (Overseas Workers Welfare Administration) at iba pang grupo.

Hinihikayat ni Rowena ang mga kagaya niyang mga guro na nasa Hong Kong pa na huwag matakot na balikan ang kanilang dating propesyon. Siya daw mismo ay nahinto ng 15 taon sa pagtuturo ngunit nakaya naman niyang bumalik.

Ang payo niya sa kanila: “Prepare ahead of time. Focus. You need to have one direction and still see teaching as your passion, because it will help you to adapt or cope with your new environment.”

Sa kabila ng pagdating ng mga biyaya sa kanyang buhay pagkatapos nyang mag for good, patuloy pa rin daw humihingi si Rowena ng patnubay sa Panginoon. Alam niyang kailangan ito para matupad ang mga plano nilang mag-asawa.

Help your children get into a HK university

By Hilda Ilaga-Jacinto

Many Filipino parents do not know that their children have a better chance now to be accepted in a university in Hong Kong. I believe that this information should be disseminated, and that Filipino parents should be helped to better understand how the process of getting a student into a university here works.

In the past, many young Filipinos who graduated from secondary schools here in Hong Kong would either go straight to work in the F&B (food and beverage) industry or fly back to the Philippines to earn a university degree. Don’t get me wrong. Working in a restaurant or a bar is a decent job but the Filipino youth had been confined in this box for a long time; it’s time for a change. The thinking that our youth are a natural fit for the industry is a cliché and restricts the development of their skills and talents.

Earning a degree in the Philippines could also be a problem because many Hong Kong companies do not recognize diplomas earned abroad, unless they were from schools in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada or Australia. Another hindrance is that, Filipino graduates will still have to compete against local (Chinese) applicants for the jobs on offer. An example is my friend’s son who graduated with a bachelor of arts degree from a prestigious university in the Philippines. He has been unable to find a job in a local company – mainly because of their preference for Chinese-speaking applicants - and is now working in a remittance company in Central.

So, how does one get into a university in Hong Kong? The preparation starts before the student enters Form 4 when he needs to choose which stream he would like to take: IB (International Baccalaureate) or DSE (Diploma of Secondary Education Examination). Both are for the purpose of getting accepted into a university, although DSE also includes vocational training.

How do we choose between the two? This will be mainly determined by where our kids go for secondary education. Those who go to international or ESF (English Schools Foundation) schools will have to go through the IB program as this is what’s on offer there. The presumption is most of them will go abroad to study so they are prepared for a more internationally recognized program. If they go to a local school, chances are they will have to go through the HKDSE stream as again, this is what is available to them.

Getting a place in a local university is tough. This year, out of the 61,600 students who took the HKDSE, only 15,000 government-subsidized undergraduate places were made available to them in the 7 universities in Hong Kong. That means, only about 24% of the HKDSE examinees are able to get in.

(There is no comparative figure for those who went through the IB stream as most of the graduates would have gone either to the United States or Britain for their college degrees. Those who opt to try and get into a HK university are no longer tested on their Chinese language ability so there is a bigger chance for them to get admitted).

Aside from the four core subjects (namely Chinese Language, English Language, Mathematics and Liberal Studies), the students need to select their elective subjects (such as sciences, languages, etc.) which are actually the prerequisites of their desired degree in university. It is advisable for the student to consult with their teachers on the selection of elective subjects for a more accurate assessment of the students’ academic potentials.

At Form 5, students should be able to gauge if they need extra help for the incoming exams. This includes attending tutorials, participating in study group or by revising mock exams regularly. Parents should also talk to their child frequently to give moral support and to keep them grounded during these difficult times. By the time the students reach Form 6, they should be preparing rigorously for the exams and panel interviews.

For HKDSE, students will initially submit their selection of 20 chronologically arranged programs in different universities. Once the students receive the exam result, they still have one last chance to re-shuffle their choices. A 24-hour period is given to students to alter their selection but the change can only be made once. Remember, only the best 5 subjects (4 cores + 1 elective) will be credited for the total scores in program requirements.

Below is a list of essential information on what to do when the HKDSE result is received:
• If the scores are high enough for your program requirements, there is no need for you to change your first choice.
• If the score can only fulfill the requirements for the lower-rank programs in the selection list, the student should make changes.
• If the total score is about 20 and below the requirements, student should consider applying to non-JUPAS bachelor degree/diploma provided that the 3322 (Chinese/English/Maths/Liberal Studies) for the core subjects and level 2 for an elective are attained.
• If the student’s score is below 20, the student should consider to either
- Re-sit for next year’s exam or
- Enrol in associate degree or higher diploma courses (1-2 years’ duration, depending on the program).

Here are some tips from some young Filipinos in Hong Kong who had gone through this university entrance process:

For an incoming university freshman, Ericka Regalado, she initially went to a mass tutorial centre (dubbed as “tiger centres”) for a month but she felt that it didn’t improve her performance. Eventually, her parents hired a private tutor and they found that this method worked better for her.

Another incoming Social Sciences student, Lilaine Kapangyarihan, did class tutorials and mock exams through her secondary school. She also did self-study and reviewed past year’s papers rigorously during the few months leading to the examinations.

Both students took the HKDSE this year and got accepted in the University of Hong Kong (HKU ranks 2nd in Asia and 27th in QS World University Rankings in 2017).

An IB program graduate in 2014, Christine Vicer,  has expressed that DSE curriculum is very restricting in regards to how it is being taught as well as the depth of content. She prepared for the IB exam mostly in school and by self-study. She mentions that constant support and encouragement from family and friends helped her to get through the difficulties of this experience.

For siblings Alyssa and Armina Menor, their university journey was not easy. Failing to get any university places, they decided not to give up, and enrolled in two-year associate degree programs. They both got into university easily afterwards.  Alyssa completed a degree in Chinese University of Hong Kong and is currently working as an English teacher in a local secondary school. Her younger sister Armina opted to go to the Savannah College of Arts and Design where she just earned her fine arts degree. Both strongly recommend that students seek career guidance from schools or NGOs like Unison, which provided them scholarships. (http://www.unison.org.hk)

For families who can’t afford the high university school fee, there’s no need to worry. The Hong Kong government is offering student loans to those who have been accepted to a university program. This loan is payable in a comfortable number of years after graduation with very low interest rate. For more information, go to the HK government website: (http://www.wfsfaa.gov.hk/sfo/en/postsecondary/enls/overview.htm)

It is apparent that this process is very stressful. The pressure from the school, teachers and peers, as well as parents’ expectations, are too overwhelming for young Filipinos about to go off to university. In summary, no matter how much preparation our Filipino youth will do, family support, and as always, faith in God, are the two biggest factors needed in overcoming this huge challenge in their lives. Let us give them our encouragement and full support. More importantly, assure them that whatever the outcome of the university exam, everything will be alright as there is always a way for them to pursue their dream. There is no point being discouraged as there are lot of options open to them.

They should take heart from these words of inspiration from a few of our young Filipinos in Hong Kong:

“Just do your best. No matter what happens, no matter where you end up, it’s not the end of the world.”—Lilaine Kapangyarihan, Bachelor of Social Sciences student, HKU

“Your mental health is far more important than a piece of paper declaring your grades. Surround yourself with the right people. Work at your own pace, because you alone know your weaknesses and strengths.” — Ericka Regalado, Bachelor of Arts student, University of Hong Kong

“Don’t be so hard on yourself, set reasonable goals and no matter how busy you are, remember to make time for yourself and the people you love. Focus on your goals, always remember to give yourself a break and pray!—Christine Vicera, A.B. English graduate, and Master in Literary and Cultural Studies student, HKU

“This process is about endurance, patience and determination. Do your best and you will gain a lot along the way.”—Cyril Kaye Mateo, BBA in Accounting and Finance, HKU

“Get information and prepare earlier for the exam. Go chase your dreams and defy reality even if society and financial issues say otherwise.”— Alyssa Carla Jacinto, B.S. Biological Sciences, HKU

“Even though I was not able to get into a university after the exam, it was not the end of the world. Now, I have a stable job as a teacher. If I can do it, you can do it too. “—Alyssa Menor, completed Associate in Arts in HKU Space, BA in English in CUHK, and PGDE at HKU

“As long as you believe in yourself, just work hard towards your goals. Your reward will come eventually.”—Armina Menor, completed Associate Degree in HKU Space and Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design at SCAD.

---

Our contributor for this issue is an engineer and a mother who has helped her children go through the stressful path of getting a place in a university in Hong Kong. Hilda has just taken part in our news writing seminar, hoping to equip herself better in reaching out to other members of the Filipino community in Hong Kong. Here is Hilda’s short biography in her own words: “I came to Hong Kong in 1995 and I have worked as an engineer for two decades. Aside from being a wife and a mother, the thing I love most in life is my relationship with God. I started to write for the paper (The SUN) in the hope of sharing information and to uplift the morale of my fellow Filipinos. I believe that although we are in the minority, we also play an important role in Hong Kong’s society”. – Ed)

House or condo?

By Francisco J. Colayco

This was from a letter sender, MF:
“I just want to ask if it’s better to buy a condo unit rather than a townhouse or house and lot.  I’m just an ordinary man.  I cannot decide if I will choose a condo or buy a house and lot.  A possible house and lot will be far from my place of work.  On the other hand, a condo is near but I am concerned about the monthly expenses like amenities fees and association fees. Instead of getting a cheaper deal, I might end up spending more.  I also think that maybe the value of the condo unit will depreciate in the long term, unlike a house and lot where the value of the land goes up.  Please help me on how to choose.

House & Lot
Advantage:
Has land that will increase in value over the long term, cheaper than a condo. 
Disadvantage:
Far from work and school for the family.  Almost 2 hours travel time. 

CONDO
Advantage: 
Cheaper and near work and school.
Disadvantage:
Small, and land is not our own.  Value of the unit depreciates.  Many expenses in association fees almost like renting.”

Dear MF,
Your final decision will be a financial one.  You will have to compute each of the items that you described for each option.  For example, the transportation expense if you live in the house/lot versus the transportation expense if you live in the condo.  You also need to study which alternative is easier to sell in the future.  Depending on the location and condition of the property, condos can be easier to sell. Although the same can be true for detached house and lot units, again depending on the condition and location of the unit, and, availability of financing.
The cost of your time is very important.  What could you do during the time you save?  Perhaps, you can earn additional income?  Or you will less likely get sick and not spend on some medicines?
A big factor is the maintenance cost of each option.  Generally, the maintenance expenses for the inside portion of a condo unit would be lower than the inside portion of a house. However, in a condo, there is the maintenance of common areas like the lobby, corridors, which are the equivalent of the outside area of a house.  Each unit owner shares those costs through regular association dues. These association dues have to be paid regularly and cannot be postponed.  On the other hand, the expenses in maintaining a house/lot can be postponed if you choose to because you do not bother anyone except yourself if your place is not in good condition but you will have to face the expenses sooner or later.

We will talk about this in the next column.  Please check out  our website, www. colaycofinancialeducation. com for more information on what I do now.

---
Francisco J. Colayco is an entrepreneur, a venture developer and financial advisor.  He is the Author of Seven Bestsellers in the Pera Palaguin Series, the latest of which is now available in bookstores:  “Wealth Reached. Money Worked. Pera Mo, Pinalago Mo!” Find his works and catch him on TV and radio.  Check out: www.colaycofinancialeducation.com, www.franciscocolayco.com, www.kskcoop.com, FaceBook and Instagram.

Stop midnight termination!

By Daisy Catherine L. Mandap

In quite a number of messages sent to us by distressed Filipina migrant workers, we were told of how their employers had sacked them at or around midnight, and told to leave the house immediately.

This would be considered downright evil by most people, but not in the realm of what the Hong Kong Labour Department deems as actionable wrongs committed by employers.

In plainer terms, contrary to what right-thinking people might believe, it is not illegal for employers to throw foreign domestic workers out of their houses during odd hours, even just on a whim or out of spite.

With no move on the part of the government or the police to stop this deplorable practice, many wicked employers out to inflict further harm on their hapless domestic help have been resorting to it lately.

Consider these recent cases:

• A Filipina suffering from stage 4 cancer was driven out by her employer as soon as the clock ticked at midnight. Pictures of the maid with plasters still stuck on parts of her body from a recent chemotherapy, and with her belongings strewn about, went viral on Facebook. The employer was apparently counting the days when he could legally throw out the maid who was on sick leave until then. Fortunately for this Filipina, said welfare officers at POLO, her employer had miscalculated, and is now facing a case for illegally terminating the worker while on sick leave

• Another Filipina who endured maltreatment for six months on the mistaken notion that she would have to pay the equivalent of her month’s salary if she walked out on her job was nevertheless thrown out at midnight by her employer on a fit. The Filipina decided to sleep in the lobby of the building where her employers lived but the caretaker took pity and called the police. The employer was forced to take her back in but after enduring a few more hours of slave-like conditions the worker chose to leave on her own. A labour officer told her afterwards she could have left earlier without obligation because of the way she was treated.

• The most recent case involved another newly-arrived Filipina who was told to leave by her employer, also at midnight, after she questioned her being told to clean windows from the outside even at the height of a storm. Fortunately for her, neighbors who noticed her daily window cleaning came to her rescue and let her spend the night with them. She is now pursuing a labor claim against her employer,  and is hoping to be allowed to process a new work contract in Hong Kong, given the employer’s clear violation of the government’s policy against unsafe window cleaning

These are just of the more recent cases of this nature which we could recall offhand for being downright nasty, even cruel. For sure, there are many more, and there would be many others, unless the government moves to outlaw the practice.

If we are to push for more humane treatment for our workers, this, plus other seemingly innocuous acts by the employer like giving fixed-dated return tickets to a terminated worker, making them sleep just about anywhere or in coffin-like boxes, should be part of the deal.

We managed to get the government to take a step in the right direction by banning dangerous window cleaning by domestic workers, we could do it again with these acts that obviously violate every just person’s sense of decency and fair play.

So, while we continue to push for decent pay and better working conditions for our workers, these little acts that could mean a world of difference for them should not be overlooked.

There is simply no place for them in any civilized society.

Public opinion

Gaano kalakas ang public opinion? May nakikinig pa ba rito sa panahon ng fake news at social media trolls na pilit kumakatawan sa tinig ng bayan? Mayroon pa bang tunay na diskusyon tungkol sa problema ng bayan na hindi nababahiran ng pagmumura, panlalait sa ka-diskusyon at pananakot?

Nitong mga nakaraang araw ay nakita natin ang tunay na public opinion, at kung papaano ito nakaka-apekto sa mga opisyal ng gubyerno.

Isang petisyon ang pinirmahan ng 16 na senador noong ika 26 ng Setyembre, na sumisita sa pamahalaan ni Pangulong Duterte na itigil na ang “extra-judicial killings”, lalo’t marami nang bata ang napapatay. 

Samakatuwid, ayon sa lohika ng social media, pito sa kanila ang hindi pumirma. Kaya naging “viral” agad ang katagang “The seven deadly sens”. Na ikinagalit ng  pito, na kilalang taga-suporta ni Du30. Fake news daw, ika ni Senator Tito Sotto. Hindi raw sila pinapirma ng mga pasimuno nito, na taga oposisyon. Kaya ang ginawa naman nila ay nagpasa sila ng kaparehas na resolusyon, at hindi isinali ang anim na senador ng oposisyon.

Tit for tat, ika nga.  Na katawatawa lang. Pero isang komento ang hindi malilimutan ng  nagbabasa sa Facebook: “Tinablan din sila ng hiya.”

Ganyan din ang nangyari sa House of Representatives. Ginawang P1,000 lang ang budget ng Commission on Human Rights dahil sa pag-imbestiga nito sa EJK. Sa init ng batikos at puna mula sa publiko, na nagbantang hindi kalilimutan ang mga bumoto na gutumin ang CHR, pasimpleng ibinalik ng mga Congressman ang budget ng ahensiya. Mas maliit nga lang ito kesa sa nakaraang taon.

Sa kabila ng pangingibabaw ng public opinon, kailangan pa rin ang pagbabantay.

Sa planong ipataw ang martial law sa buong bansa, halimbawa, pinakamaking balakid ang malayang hudikatura. Sinimulan na ang impeachment ni Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno. Isinusunod pa ang kay Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales.

Ayon sa survey na ginawa ng Social Weather Station, lumabas na 54% ang hindi naniniwala na “nanlaban” ang mga napatay sa Drug War, at 20% ang naniniwala. Ganito rin kaya ang maging tingin ng  publiko sa impeachment?

Remains of breast cancer victim flown home

A long-time Filipina domestic worker in Hong Kong who died of breast cancer in September has made her final voyage home.

The remains of Susan Limon, said to be in her early 60s, were shipped home to Pangasinan on board a Philippine Airlines flight to Manila on the night of Sept 22.

An officer of the assistance to nationals section of the Consulate said the repatriation was originally scheduled for Sept 25, but they were able to arrange the shipping three days ahead of schedule.

Susan Limon

ATN officer Hermogenes Cayabyab Jr said Limon’s son and his wife escorted the body on the flight to Manila, and from there it was transported by a funeral service van to their hometown of Anda in Pangasinan.

The costs of transporting the remains were shouldered by Limon’s Western employers, Cayabyab said.

“It’s the employers who sought medical attention for her when she was diagnosed with breast cancer and did not terminate her contract because they knew she needed medical care,” Cayabyab said.

Limon was confined in Queen Mary Hospital in Pokfulam for a considerable period where she underwent chemotherapy, then was discharged in early September when she was feeling better.

But on Sept 10, while in the company of her OFW friends, she reportedly had a chill and felt very feeble, so they took her back to Queen Mary.

The doctor who attended to Limon told them her cancer had metastasized. On Sept 14, Limon passed away. – Vir B. Lumicao