By Lawrence Casiraya
INQUIRER.net
YOU only have a few seconds to light a 5-star and move away before it explodes. He can make one with a few more seconds to spare.
Seven seconds, to be exact, was all it took for Dennis Asturias to get a piece of paper, take a pinch of pulbura -- a chemical concoction of potassium chlorate and sulfur, or referring to it as "devil" ("Yun pampasabog") -- with his silvery fingers, fold it a couple of times in the process putting the mitsa or fuse (that piece of coiled string wrapped in red) and finally chuck it in a cardboard box already full to the brim with thousands of 5-stars he has made.
The speed by which he can make these deadly firecrackers is nothing short of amazing, considering he uses his bare hands -- no gloves, nothing to protect his fingers, only a towel wrapped around his head to wipe his sweaty arms.
In a town where 80 percent of the population is involved in the production of firecrackers, it shouldn't be difficult to find people like him who can finish a few boxes of 5-stars in a day.
The boxes are used packaging for cigarettes, I couldn't help but notice the irony in that.
Dennis is from Pulong Buhangin, a remote barangay of Santa Maria, Bulacan, acknowledged as the center of Bulacan's fireworks industry.
Pulong Buhangin, therefore, is the core of this industry because this is the production hub. Don't expect to find gated factories, though. Apparently, we discovered during our trip that led us to Pulong Buhangin, fireworks -- like Bulacan's candies and sweets -- are literally homemade.
We found Dennis in a small nipa-lined shack in the backyard of, we assumed, was the employer's house. The wall carried newspaper clippings of his favorite basketball team.
Different shacks like his carried signs like "production,""wrapping," and "bodega" or storehouse.
Others like him, meanwhile, were making fountains, kwitis and sawa -- the last one is a kind of firecracker, literally a snakelike string of hundreds, sometimes thousands of 5-stars.
Dennis was not at all disrupted even when we were interviewing him while he was pinching, wrapping and chucking -- all in one fluid motion.
"Maliit pa lang ako hanapbuhay ko na to. Ten years old pa lang ako tumutulong na ko sa packing (I've been doing this work since I was 10)," he says. Dennis is now 27 years old.
But he says this only serves as his sideline, or something he does to earn extra when he can't find a regular job in Manila. He says he earns about P700 per week.
Of course, the inevitable questions: How many times has he been in any accident involving fireworks? He casually replies, "Di pa ko napuputukan ni minsan (I've yet to mishandle firecrackers by accident).”
In this video, he even shares his secret on how to light a 5-star properly and safely.
December 2008 Archives
By Anna Valmero
INQUIRER.NET
WITH the strong influence of Chinese culture, Filipinos borrow several traditions from the Asian neighbor in celebrating the New Year.
Over time, it has been part of our culture as well as other parts of the world to watch out for forecasts from Feng shui experts so we can better be guided in the following year.
2009 is the year of the Earth Ox in the Chinese Zodiac. For the coming year, growth will be slow but it will be sure, says Feng shui expert Master Aldric Dalumpines of Punsoy.com.
Dalumpines says there are three elements to reading the upcoming year. First, the earth element -- signals earth related industries will have a rosy outlook. These include real estate, memorial parks, agriculture, mining and related businesses like construction, and even oil.
Another good area for business is aqua farming, since water is a stronger element than earth, he says.
Another element in the forecast is the animal sign, says Dalumpines.
Ox, in Asian culture, refers to the carabao or water buffalo and not the Western bull. As a beast of burden, the carabao is the engine of growth especially in agricultural countries.
The third part is the cyclical pattern of the sign, in which years falling under the Sign of the Ox are also years of crises.
The Chinese are optimistic about 2009 since a crisis also provides opportunities. To rise above the challenges, he advises everyone to be patient and diligent and to save money. 2009 is also a time of harvest for people who have worked hard over the last three years.
“2009 is the best time for the country to lay foundations strongly for the future -- as seen before when Filipinos have become creative and resilient over time,” the Feng shui expert says.
“With the United States and other parts of the world suffer in the global recession, now is the best time for the country to shine since we are already vaccinated and immune to meltdowns, thanks to our training under our previous national leaders,” he says.
He says the upcoming elections is boon for national projects since there will be no hoarding of resources to support infrastructure and healthcare projects.
He cautions though that there will be political figures who will try to remain in power even after 2010.
On the bright side, he says there will be a pool of fresh faces in the local politics, as in the case of newly elected U.S. President Barrack Obama.
“Manny Pacquiao will be a dark horse in 2010, more so if he will be able to win his next two bouts,” he adds.
When asked about the chances of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to win in 2010, he cautioned that the national leader should not push her luck too much or take unnecessary risks, such as the Charter Change.
He says the president was able to benefit from the perfect Feng shui of the late Diosdado Macapagal’s burial site
He says it is too early to speculate who will claim leadership. But two things will happen.
First, religious groups will sell block voting of its members to the highest political bidder. Secondly, it spins a different turn for the entertainment industry ironically and paradoxically as comedy will be highly favored by masses who will seek temporary relief from the situation.
As with other spiritual practices like religion, Feng shui serves as guide -- one way of allowing the signs of the universe or nature to speak to us -- and it is all tied up to that “One Great Power” above, he says.
JUST a few days before New Year, some Filipinos find their way into the marketplace to buy things they deem will bring them luck next year.
One good place to visit is Quiapo. You will see all sorts of “charms.” Vendors are everywhere. As you walk out of the Quiapo church on the way to Carriedo, you will surely have difficulty passing through R. Hidalgo street. The supposedly clear street that was renovated in 2006 is packed with sidewalk vendors this time of the year. The fruit vendors almost occupy the walkway making it harder for customers to pass through.
“Hale, bili na. Dito mura! [Hey, buy now. We sell cheap here],” a vendor screamed as she persuaded people to check out her goods.
Name rounded fruits, the vendors in Quiapo have it. Fruits of different sizes are available -- from the largest to the smallest. They have Kiat kiat, apple, chico, longan, watermelon, melon, grapes, dalandan, guava and Ponkan. At this time of the year, prices of fruits cost more. For example, grapes are sold at P200 a kilo. But during ordinary days, you can buy them at P120 to 150 a kilo. Fuji apples, which are usually sold at P5.00 a piece, can be bought at P10.00 a piece. So others prefer cheap fruits like guava and dalandan.
Filipinos believe that displaying rounded fruits on the table will make for a “fruitful” year. This is one of the superstitions that Filipinos practice up to this day. No wonder, many people still flock to the marketplace to buy fruits, especially the round-shaped ones despite the economic crisis.
Still on having round-shaped things around, Filipinos also believe that wearing polka dot clothes will attract good luck and hopefully money in the coming year. Polka dots were in vogue in the 60s. But for some Filipinos, luck is more important than fashion.
Another superstitionFilipinos practice, which is largely influenced by the Chinese, is creating noise to welcome the New Year. It is believed that making noise drives bad luck away.
Brenda, a vendor of torotots (handmade horns) say that unlike fruit vendors, she earns less from selling these lucky charms. “Mas pinipili nila ‘yung prutas kasi nakakain [People still chose to buy the fruits because they can eat them afterwards],” she says.
While Filipinos cling to these superstitious beliefs, food remains the best lucky charm when they celebrate the New Year. At least this indicates that they still are lucky to have something on the table during these hard times.
WHO wants to celebrate the coming year with a bang?
Before you raise your hand, count your fingers first. You don’t want to start the year with incomplete fingers.
According to Engineer Celso Cruz, chairman emeritus of the Philippine Pyrotechnics Manufacturers & Dealers Association Inc. (PPMDAI), consumers should be careful in buying fireworks and firecrackers.
He says that you should always check the packaging if it contains the following: manufacturer’s name, address and contact number; license number of manufacturer; instructions for use and warnings.
If the fireworks that you bought don’t have the above mentioned requirements, then it means that you these fireworks are illegal. Cruz admitted that many are still selling illegal fireworks.
Cruz said that the PPMDAI has been providing disseminating safety information on fireworks and firecrackers to the public. But it is up to the Philippine National Police to regulate the manufacture, distribution and use of firecrackers in the country, as stated in Republic Act 7183, which outlines laws on firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices.
PPMDAI has, for instance, launched a campaign called “Ingat-Paputok, Iwas-Disgrasya.” It was done in partnership with Bulacan.
Cruz said the campaign is done through seminars and the distribution of leaflets that contain information on safety when it comes to using fireworks.
I got a copy of the leaflet and here are some reminders from the Pyrotechnics Regulatory Board:
- Don’t use prohibited firecrackers like pla-pla, lolo, super lolo, giant bawang, giant whistle bomb, baby dynamite at kabase.
- Light the fireworks in a wide area far from flammable materials.
- Don’t let your children light firecrackers. Guide them in handling lucis or sparklers.
- Don’t light any fireworks in your hands.
- If the firecrackers or fireworks are defective, then don’t light them again. Wait
- For 15 to 20 minutes and splash a pail of water onto it.
By Marjorie Gorospe
INQUIRER.net
AS a predominantly Catholic nation, it has become a Filipino tradition to light four candles of Advent during the Christmas season.
This year, my family was chosen to sponsor the mass on the lighting of the pink candle, which is a way of celebrating the prophesied second coming of Jesus Christ.
I must admit that Filipino traditions can be very demanding. But it has persisted for years because it has been one way of bringing families together. In my case, I was required by my mother to go to Tanay in Rizal – our hometown – to attend a special mass.
During the mass, I became part of the procession of the priest, lector and lay ministers. The rest of my family was asked to light the pink candles, while I was asked to read a written prayer prepared by the parishioners.
This event reminded me of the days when I was still eager to complete the Misa de Gallo before Christmas. Amid the cold weather in Tanay, I braved the early morning shower to attend the early mass with my mother. During my childhood, I was exposed to such traditions especially during Christmas.
But as I listened to our priest during his homily, he lamented about the “Simbang Gabi” as “Simbang Tabi,” a pun that describes how some younger people have used this Filipino tradition as an opportunity to meet friends.
Times have changed.
Lighting the candle of advent also reminded me of the times when my family got together. Back then we were all complete. However, like most Filipino families today, two of my sisters now live abroad, leaving me as the one only one left to read the prayer. I have a brother but I am not sure if he’s too keen on assuming this role.
Nevertheless, our priest reminded me that lighting the candle symbolizes “rejoicing.” Every year, traditions have brought Filipino families together and the lighting of the candle of advent was one of them.
By Marjorie Gorospe
THE CHRISTMAS season is about giving and sharing. But sometimes, the problem is finding out which organization could you give to and how.
Through the initiative of Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (CBTL) with their “Give into the Giving” program for Christmas season, 12 different organizations with different advocacies are going to be accessible to people who wish to donate in their own little ways.
These organizations include Kababaihan Gabay sa Bayan (KAGABAY), Caritas Restorative Justice, The Philippine Animal and Welfare Society (PAWS), Bahay Tuluyan, Haribon, Cartwheel Foundation, Kythe, utism Society of the Philippines (ASP), Philippine Cerebral Palsy Inc., Philippine Band of Mercy (PBM), Resources for the Blind, and Philippine Business for Social Congress (PBSP).
Paolo del Rosario, Marketing Director of CBTL, said they chose twelve organizations to give people choice.
“As corporations, it is important for us to figure out how we can help,” Del Rosario said as he stressed on the importance of this Christmas initiative.
He said that the mother company of CBTL has been doing similar initiatives in other countries, which is why they saw the need to localize and create an immediate impact within the country.
How does it work? Customers are given a punch card which shows different purchases one must complete. When the purchases are completed, customers can then fill out a form and chose an organization. CBTL will donate the money on the customer’s behalf.
“This is only a start of a long term relationship,” said del Rosario. The “give into giving” project will last until January next year.
Del Rosario hopes that this project would actually be done yearly every Christmas season.
In the meantime, Del Rosario looks forward to the people who are willing to give because that is the real essence of Christmas.
By Izah Morales
DRESSED in red hat, pants and suit, the old stout man seated on a chair greeted children at the Glorietta mall with his signature laugh, “Ho!Ho!Ho! Merry Christmas!”
Yes, Santa Claus has come to town to meet and greet kids. But children should not be mistaken. The man behind this familiar costume during the holidays is Francisco Da Silva, just one of many Santa Clauses who dressed up during the yuletide season.
Da Silva, a 76-year-old Filipino-Portuguese, has been dressing up as Santa Claus for six years. He said he has seen a lot of Santa Clauses yet they weren’t fit for the character.
“If you are to be a Santa Claus, you must have charisma with children. Santa is a lover of Children. That’s why I love to be Santa Claus,” said Da Silva.
During his childhood, Da Silva admitted that he wished Santa Claus to see his siblings again so they could celebrate Christmas together. Da Silva lost two of his brothers.
Da Silva’s wish this coming Christmas is for his family and 10 grandchildren to spend the holidays together.
Da Silva, a 76-year-old Filipino-Portuguese, has been dressing up as Santa Claus for six years. He said he has seen a lot of Santa Clauses yet they weren’t fit for the character.
“If you are to be a Santa Claus, you must have charisma with children. Santa is a lover of Children. That’s why I love to be Santa Claus,” said Da Silva.
During his childhood, Da Silva admitted that he wished Santa Claus to see his siblings again so they could celebrate Christmas together. Da Silva lost two of his brothers.
Da Silva’s wish this coming Christmas is for his family and 10 grandchildren to spend the holidays together.
By Quay Evano
Dubai, UAE -- For a devout Catholic Filipino like Cristy Atendido, Christmas won’t be complete without attending the traditional “simbang gabi” or midnight mass and completing all nine days of it.
So, when she left the Philippines to work as an Overseas Filipino Worker in the Middle East last year, it was one of the things she thought she won’t be able to do since she was going to the world’s region of the Islamic religion.
But last December she was able to go to the midnight mass although wasn’t able to complete it. This year, she is focused on completing it and last night she was able to attend the first celebration of the simbang gabi. By the way, she’s still in the Middle East.
Cristy is just one of the hundreds of thousands of Catholic Filipinos and millions of Christians who are fortunate to be allowed to practice their faith in a Muslim country, which is a very rare occurrence especially in a war-torn region like the Middle East, where people of different religions and even of the same religion fight and kill each other in the name of God.
Cristy lives and works in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, hailed around the world for its religious tolerance and interfaith openness. It is perhaps the only Islamic nation in the Gulf with the most Catholic churches, a total of seven (7): St. Mary’s Church (Dubai), St. Francis of Assisi Church (Jebel Ali, Dubai), St. Joseph’s Church (Abu Dhabi), St. Mary’s Church (Al Ain), St. Michael’s Church (Sharjah), Church of Mother of Perpetual Help (Fujairah), and St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church (Ras Al Khaimah). The church in Abu Dhabi is the UAE headquarter of the Apostolic Vicariate of Arabia which is being overseen by Bishop Paul Hinder O.F.M. Cap.
Masses are held everyday and most churches have mass celebrations in different languages like English, Arabic, French, Malayalam (South Indian language), Tamil, Urdu (Pakistani language) and Tagalog.
Majority of the Catholics and other Christians in the UAE are from the Philippines and South India and the others would be from European countries like the United Kingdom, Italy, and France and Gulf countries like Lebanon, Syria and Iraq.
People of different faiths and religions work and live in peace and harmony in this open Islamic city and even celebrate each other’s important religious festivals.
Christians greet Muslims “Eid Mubarak” during Ramadan, Eid Al Adha and Eid Al Fitr and greet Hindus “Happy Diwali” and “Happy Onam” during their festival of light. Muslims and Hindus in turn greet Christians “Merry Christmas” and “Happy Easter”. This is an amazing contrast to neighboring countries like Saudi Arabia, the seat of Islam, where celebrating even having a cross ornament could bring one to jail or in Iraq where Sunni and Shiite Muslims are engaged in an endless bloodshed. It is only Qatar which has lately allowed the construction of Christian churches in its city.
Christmas is widely celebrated in the UAE as malls, hotels and other business establishments put up Christmas decorations all over the city. Christmas carols waft through the air and business establishments cash in on the Christmas fervor by offering endless sales. Although there are still minor restrictions like churches are not allowed to have a cross structure on its façade (but other Christian symbols are allowed in the interior) and proselytizing, the UAE has showed the world that in diversity, there could be some form of unity wherein peaceful living could be achieved.
The country’s leaders from the ruling family of Dubai, the Maktoums and the ruling family of Abu Dhabi, the Al Nahyans, have been called visionaries not only for making their country one of the richest countries in the world in only a span of 37 years, but for their vision of creating a society wherein Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Buddhists and people from other religions could live as one without hatred and fear. It is actually the late leader of Dubai, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum who donated the land where St. Mary’s Church was built and donated funds for its completion.
Most of the priests in the seven Catholic churches in the UAE are from India and the Philippines. St. Mary’s Parish Priest is Father P.M. Peter and its famous Filipino priest is Father Zacarias Parra who is endearingly called Father Zaki by most parishioners. Along with other priests and sisters, they are responsible for holding masses and other Christian services like baptisms, weddings, catechisms and confessions.
As thousands and thousands of Filipinos arrive in the UAE daily, the churches have become a refuge for OFWs as they fight homesickness and loneliness and live with the everyday struggles of living in a foreign land. Especially now as Christmas approaches, homesickness is at an all time high.
But the “simbang gabi” keeps Filipinos and other Catholics with the renewed vigor and optimism they need to survive another year of being away from their loved ones. After hearing the midnight mass, they are even treated to “kakanin” being sold by fellow Filipinos. There are bibingka, suman and other Filipino native delicacies being sold inside and outside the church premises, really making Dubai and the other emirates their home away from home.
For Cristy, she said, the only thing missing is to see small children singing Christmas carols in the streets and houses and to have her one and only son Adrian, a college student back home, to be with her this Yuletide season. But aside from this, she feels that the spirit of Christmas and the Catholic faith is very much alive in the UAE.
Dubai, UAE -- For a devout Catholic Filipino like Cristy Atendido, Christmas won’t be complete without attending the traditional “simbang gabi” or midnight mass and completing all nine days of it.
So, when she left the Philippines to work as an Overseas Filipino Worker in the Middle East last year, it was one of the things she thought she won’t be able to do since she was going to the world’s region of the Islamic religion.
But last December she was able to go to the midnight mass although wasn’t able to complete it. This year, she is focused on completing it and last night she was able to attend the first celebration of the simbang gabi. By the way, she’s still in the Middle East.
Cristy is just one of the hundreds of thousands of Catholic Filipinos and millions of Christians who are fortunate to be allowed to practice their faith in a Muslim country, which is a very rare occurrence especially in a war-torn region like the Middle East, where people of different religions and even of the same religion fight and kill each other in the name of God.
Cristy lives and works in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, hailed around the world for its religious tolerance and interfaith openness. It is perhaps the only Islamic nation in the Gulf with the most Catholic churches, a total of seven (7): St. Mary’s Church (Dubai), St. Francis of Assisi Church (Jebel Ali, Dubai), St. Joseph’s Church (Abu Dhabi), St. Mary’s Church (Al Ain), St. Michael’s Church (Sharjah), Church of Mother of Perpetual Help (Fujairah), and St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church (Ras Al Khaimah). The church in Abu Dhabi is the UAE headquarter of the Apostolic Vicariate of Arabia which is being overseen by Bishop Paul Hinder O.F.M. Cap.
Masses are held everyday and most churches have mass celebrations in different languages like English, Arabic, French, Malayalam (South Indian language), Tamil, Urdu (Pakistani language) and Tagalog.
Majority of the Catholics and other Christians in the UAE are from the Philippines and South India and the others would be from European countries like the United Kingdom, Italy, and France and Gulf countries like Lebanon, Syria and Iraq.
People of different faiths and religions work and live in peace and harmony in this open Islamic city and even celebrate each other’s important religious festivals.
Christians greet Muslims “Eid Mubarak” during Ramadan, Eid Al Adha and Eid Al Fitr and greet Hindus “Happy Diwali” and “Happy Onam” during their festival of light. Muslims and Hindus in turn greet Christians “Merry Christmas” and “Happy Easter”. This is an amazing contrast to neighboring countries like Saudi Arabia, the seat of Islam, where celebrating even having a cross ornament could bring one to jail or in Iraq where Sunni and Shiite Muslims are engaged in an endless bloodshed. It is only Qatar which has lately allowed the construction of Christian churches in its city.
Christmas is widely celebrated in the UAE as malls, hotels and other business establishments put up Christmas decorations all over the city. Christmas carols waft through the air and business establishments cash in on the Christmas fervor by offering endless sales. Although there are still minor restrictions like churches are not allowed to have a cross structure on its façade (but other Christian symbols are allowed in the interior) and proselytizing, the UAE has showed the world that in diversity, there could be some form of unity wherein peaceful living could be achieved.
The country’s leaders from the ruling family of Dubai, the Maktoums and the ruling family of Abu Dhabi, the Al Nahyans, have been called visionaries not only for making their country one of the richest countries in the world in only a span of 37 years, but for their vision of creating a society wherein Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Buddhists and people from other religions could live as one without hatred and fear. It is actually the late leader of Dubai, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum who donated the land where St. Mary’s Church was built and donated funds for its completion.
Most of the priests in the seven Catholic churches in the UAE are from India and the Philippines. St. Mary’s Parish Priest is Father P.M. Peter and its famous Filipino priest is Father Zacarias Parra who is endearingly called Father Zaki by most parishioners. Along with other priests and sisters, they are responsible for holding masses and other Christian services like baptisms, weddings, catechisms and confessions.
As thousands and thousands of Filipinos arrive in the UAE daily, the churches have become a refuge for OFWs as they fight homesickness and loneliness and live with the everyday struggles of living in a foreign land. Especially now as Christmas approaches, homesickness is at an all time high.
But the “simbang gabi” keeps Filipinos and other Catholics with the renewed vigor and optimism they need to survive another year of being away from their loved ones. After hearing the midnight mass, they are even treated to “kakanin” being sold by fellow Filipinos. There are bibingka, suman and other Filipino native delicacies being sold inside and outside the church premises, really making Dubai and the other emirates their home away from home.
For Cristy, she said, the only thing missing is to see small children singing Christmas carols in the streets and houses and to have her one and only son Adrian, a college student back home, to be with her this Yuletide season. But aside from this, she feels that the spirit of Christmas and the Catholic faith is very much alive in the UAE.
DESPITE being diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus or HIV, overseas Filipino workers Miriam and Gerry (not their real names) are not losing hope. In fact, they’re even spreading optimism through communities of people that have the same condition.
In 1994, Miriam learned that she was positive for HIV. At that time, she was afraid people would shun her and that she would become isolated. Thus she did not seek medication until 2006 when she started feeling very weak. Miriam was initially diagnosed with Myoma. She was supposed to undergo an operation when doctors decided against the procedure when they learned she has HIV.
Miriam later learned from a non-government organization that her rights were violated when she was refused to be operated on. But she also learned that people with HIV continue to suffer the stigma from a society who knows very little about their condition.
“Naging maliwanag sa akin na nagkaroon talaga ng discrimination. Nalabag talaga ang aking karapatan na makakuha ng serbisyo doon sa hospital. [I realized that discrimination happened. My rights to get service from the hospital were violated.],” said Miriam.
Miriam eventually found refuge in her family and in “Babae Plus,” a community she joined.
“Hindi naman kami humihingi ng espesyal na treatment, ang kailangan lang namin, patas na karapatan. [We’re not asking for any special treatment. What we ask are equal rights.],” explained Miriam.
On the other hand, Gerry, the breadwinner in his family, failed the mandatory medical examination in Dubai when he was diagnosed with HIV. He went home in 2005.
“Na-depress ako. ‘Di ko alam kung paano ko sasabihin sa family ko kasi ito ‘yung means para makatulong ako sa kanila. [I was depressed. I don’t know how I will tell my family because working in Dubai was my means to help them.],” said Gerry.
Like Miriam, Gerry’s family accepted supported him in his battle.
“Tuloy pa rin ang buhay. Four years na akong namumuhay na may HIV. Ang iniisip ko na lang, maging productive. [Life goes on. I’m living with HIV for four years now. I still want to have a productive life.],” said Gerry.
Miriam and Gerry admit their involvement in a community changed their lives and outlook.
“Binibigay ko nalang ‘yung natitirang life ko sa community. Parang mas nararamdaman ko na nandito rin ‘yung pangangailangan ko. Mas nag-eenjoy ako ngaun parang it’s pay back time. [I’m dedicating the remaining years of my life in the community. I feel that this is what I need. I enjoy what I’m doing now. It’s like pay back time.],” said Miriam.
Meanwhile, Gerry became a member of Care and Support Group of People Living with HIV and involves himself helping spread more awareness about HIV prevention.
In their journey, they picked up lessons along the way.
“Nalaman ko ‘yung kahalagahan ng pagbibigay mukha sa mga taong positibo. ‘Yung mga taong positibo may kakayahan pa ring mamuhay ng normal na may kakayahan pa ring makibaka sa buhay. [I learned the importance of giving face and representation to the people positive with HIV. These people are still capable of living normally and coping with life.],” said Miriam.
Gerry said his experience was more of an awakening.
“Hindi naman magtatapos ang pangarap natin. Be responsible enough para di makahawa. Live a healthy lifestyle. [Our dreams do not end with having HIV. Let’s be responsible enough so as not to spread the virus. Let’s live a healthy lifestyle.],” added Gerry.
Gerry and Miriam stressed that they yearn for acceptance.
Miriam said “Babae Plus” has three simple objectives:
1) Pang-unawa- Unawain kami dahil inunawa rin namin ang aming kalagayan. [Understanding. We hope that they will understand us for we learn to understand our situation.]
2) Pagtanggap- Tinanggap namin ang aming kalagayan. Ayaw naming ng ganito pero tinanggap namin dahil andyan na ‘yan. Pagtanggap ng aming pamilya at pagtanggap ng lipunan. [Acceptance. We accepted our situation. We don’t like this but we accepted it. We need acceptance by our family and rest of the society.]
3)Patas na karapatan -Sa palagay ko naman, may karapatan kami na patas sa kalalakihan. [Equal rights. We want equal rights.]
By Quay Evano
FOR the first time in the history of overseas employment for Filipinos and perhaps a first in the Middle East and the rest of the world, a foundation has been created by the OFWs (in the UAE) for the OFWs (in the Middle East) -- to aid them during harsh financial times.
The foundation was also created to promote entrepreneurship, to engage in fundraising activities, to give scholarships to children of low-income Filipino families and provide money to Filipinos stricken with life-threatening illnesses or who are victims of calamities and natural disasters.
“The Filipino Expatriates in the UAE Foundation Inc., also known as FILEX Foundation was established so that in our own moments of personal need, we have a foundation we Filipino expats can easily go to for help. No one else can really help the OFWs but the OFWs themselves, so it is high time we start preparing ourselves for our future and supporting ourselves. Even if we are abroad, or back home in the Philippines, the foundation will become the common interest we will work for, to gather and to sustain and proudly say that it is our own charitable organization. There are so many charitable organizations in the Philippines but there is really none for the OFWs. Finally, there is one now,” Dick Orense, Chairman of the Interim Board of Trustees, said.
The FILEX Foundation, which is a non-stock and non-profit corporation under the laws of the Philippines, was duly registered at and approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission in Manila on June 25, 2008.
Membership is open to all Filipinos with a payment of a one-time fee of AED (Dirhams) 30 or US$ 8. Overseas Filipino Workers with a UAE residence visa need to pay a yearly fee of Dhs 15 for the group accident insurance security which covers accidental death, total accident disability, payment for medical fees and repatriation of remains to the Philippines.
“We really aimed to have the lowest membership fee we could possibly have and the lowest insurance fee so that it will easy for our fellow Filipinos to become members because we know they work blood, sweat and tears for every dirham they earn here,” Orense said.
One of the main purposes in creating the foundation is “to establish a funding facility whose capital fund, which to be known as the Foundation Capital Fund or FCF, is designed to grow and expand through time, with only its interests or earnings, to be known as the Foundation Disposable Fund or FDF, are utilized to assist the Filipino expatriates in the UAE or those who are no longer in the UAE and who are in great need for financial aid or help.
This premise is what started the realization of a foundation for OFWs to happen. About five years ago, as the newly-appointed Philippine Ambassador to the UAE, Libran Cabactulan was approached by a Filipina, who had a terminal illness, asking for financial help.
The Philippine Embassy and the whole Filipino community rallied to help her as much as they can but eventually and unfortunately, the Filipina died. But out of her death, the FILEX dream was born.
“We ran out of time. That was our main problem. It took us a lot of time to get the money she required for her operation, it took time to make the Filipino community raise more funds, and time was something she didn’t have. I thought, if only we had enough money stored somewhere that will only be accessible for OFWs at any given time to help them, then we could stop this scenario from ever happening again. And there are so many of these kinds problems OFWs face everyday,” explained Ambassador Cabactulan.
In 2004, Ambassador Cabactulan convened a meeting of Filipino community leaders in Abu Dhabi signifying his vision to form a body that would become an institution which every Overseas Filipino in need could access for support and assistance.
In 2005, Filipino community leaders submitted their respective proposals and copies of their existing constitutions and by-laws followed up with regular meetings with the Ambassador.
In 2006, Ambassador Cabactulan selected 21 Filcom leaders who were responsible for initiating and shaping the foundation. In 2007, the election for the Board of Trustees was held at the Ambassador’s residence and in 2008, FILEX deposited one million pesos as trust fund at the Land Bank of the Philippines as a requirement for registration as a non-stock and non-profit organization.
“Assistance given by the government is not enough, especially with the fact that the numbers of Filipinos in the Middle East is growing by leaps and bounds. Five years ago, there was around 200,000 Filipinos in the UAE. Now we are more than 350,000. In Saudi Arabia, there are almost more than one million Filipinos now. I realized that there’s a great urgent need for adequate extra sufficient assistance to be accorded to the OFWs. I just felt that it was required for us Filipinos abroad to do something,” Ambassador Cabactulan said.
“What we’re launching with FILEX is a process, a system that will evolve into an institution that’s long lasting, self-sustaining and durable. I conceived it but it now belongs to all Filipino expatriates. My dream is that every Filipino who will go abroad will become a member of FILEX so that they will have some sort of protection for we don’t know what lies in our future and what will happen to our lives in a foreign land. Filex Foundation is a “pader na masasandalan mo” in times of need,” Ambassador
Cabactulan stressed.
At present, the Filex Foundation has 1,600 members since the official launch in August but the officers’ goal is to reach 100,000 members within a year.
The FILEX Foundation has already been praised by the UAE’s Minister of Social Affairs, Mariam Mohammed Khalfan al Roumi for its initiative in helping Filipinos in the country.
The foundation has also created its own website.
(Photos by Quay Evano)
FOR the first time in the history of overseas employment for Filipinos and perhaps a first in the Middle East and the rest of the world, a foundation has been created by the OFWs (in the UAE) for the OFWs (in the Middle East) -- to aid them during harsh financial times.
The foundation was also created to promote entrepreneurship, to engage in fundraising activities, to give scholarships to children of low-income Filipino families and provide money to Filipinos stricken with life-threatening illnesses or who are victims of calamities and natural disasters.
“The Filipino Expatriates in the UAE Foundation Inc., also known as FILEX Foundation was established so that in our own moments of personal need, we have a foundation we Filipino expats can easily go to for help. No one else can really help the OFWs but the OFWs themselves, so it is high time we start preparing ourselves for our future and supporting ourselves. Even if we are abroad, or back home in the Philippines, the foundation will become the common interest we will work for, to gather and to sustain and proudly say that it is our own charitable organization. There are so many charitable organizations in the Philippines but there is really none for the OFWs. Finally, there is one now,” Dick Orense, Chairman of the Interim Board of Trustees, said.
The FILEX Foundation, which is a non-stock and non-profit corporation under the laws of the Philippines, was duly registered at and approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission in Manila on June 25, 2008.
Membership is open to all Filipinos with a payment of a one-time fee of AED (Dirhams) 30 or US$ 8. Overseas Filipino Workers with a UAE residence visa need to pay a yearly fee of Dhs 15 for the group accident insurance security which covers accidental death, total accident disability, payment for medical fees and repatriation of remains to the Philippines.
“We really aimed to have the lowest membership fee we could possibly have and the lowest insurance fee so that it will easy for our fellow Filipinos to become members because we know they work blood, sweat and tears for every dirham they earn here,” Orense said.
One of the main purposes in creating the foundation is “to establish a funding facility whose capital fund, which to be known as the Foundation Capital Fund or FCF, is designed to grow and expand through time, with only its interests or earnings, to be known as the Foundation Disposable Fund or FDF, are utilized to assist the Filipino expatriates in the UAE or those who are no longer in the UAE and who are in great need for financial aid or help.
This premise is what started the realization of a foundation for OFWs to happen. About five years ago, as the newly-appointed Philippine Ambassador to the UAE, Libran Cabactulan was approached by a Filipina, who had a terminal illness, asking for financial help.
The Philippine Embassy and the whole Filipino community rallied to help her as much as they can but eventually and unfortunately, the Filipina died. But out of her death, the FILEX dream was born.
“We ran out of time. That was our main problem. It took us a lot of time to get the money she required for her operation, it took time to make the Filipino community raise more funds, and time was something she didn’t have. I thought, if only we had enough money stored somewhere that will only be accessible for OFWs at any given time to help them, then we could stop this scenario from ever happening again. And there are so many of these kinds problems OFWs face everyday,” explained Ambassador Cabactulan.
In 2004, Ambassador Cabactulan convened a meeting of Filipino community leaders in Abu Dhabi signifying his vision to form a body that would become an institution which every Overseas Filipino in need could access for support and assistance.
In 2005, Filipino community leaders submitted their respective proposals and copies of their existing constitutions and by-laws followed up with regular meetings with the Ambassador.
In 2006, Ambassador Cabactulan selected 21 Filcom leaders who were responsible for initiating and shaping the foundation. In 2007, the election for the Board of Trustees was held at the Ambassador’s residence and in 2008, FILEX deposited one million pesos as trust fund at the Land Bank of the Philippines as a requirement for registration as a non-stock and non-profit organization.
“Assistance given by the government is not enough, especially with the fact that the numbers of Filipinos in the Middle East is growing by leaps and bounds. Five years ago, there was around 200,000 Filipinos in the UAE. Now we are more than 350,000. In Saudi Arabia, there are almost more than one million Filipinos now. I realized that there’s a great urgent need for adequate extra sufficient assistance to be accorded to the OFWs. I just felt that it was required for us Filipinos abroad to do something,” Ambassador Cabactulan said.
“What we’re launching with FILEX is a process, a system that will evolve into an institution that’s long lasting, self-sustaining and durable. I conceived it but it now belongs to all Filipino expatriates. My dream is that every Filipino who will go abroad will become a member of FILEX so that they will have some sort of protection for we don’t know what lies in our future and what will happen to our lives in a foreign land. Filex Foundation is a “pader na masasandalan mo” in times of need,” Ambassador
Cabactulan stressed.
At present, the Filex Foundation has 1,600 members since the official launch in August but the officers’ goal is to reach 100,000 members within a year.
The FILEX Foundation has already been praised by the UAE’s Minister of Social Affairs, Mariam Mohammed Khalfan al Roumi for its initiative in helping Filipinos in the country.
The foundation has also created its own website.
(Photos by Quay Evano)
By Quay Evano
Bayanihan is one of the most powerful, strongest and nationalistic word in the Filipino language. It is one of those words that define the Filipino -- a must for his “Filipino-ness” to be complete. It has no literal counterpart in the English language but it can be defined as “working together towards a common goal for a compatriot or for the country.” The word evokes the image of camaraderie, responsibility, unity and sacrifice all done in the spirit of fun and nationalistic pride.
And this imagery is precisely what was seen during the first-ever Bayanihan Festival organized by the leaders of the Filipino community in Dubai and the Northern Emirates headed by Engineer Orandantes Delizo, who has lived and worked in the UAE for more than two decades.
It was held on December 6, 2008 at the Megabowl Amphitheater, Zabeel Park in Dubai with around 5,000 Filipinos from all over the UAE taking part including Filipino clubs and organizations, Filipino schools, and Filipino companies who helped the organizers in many aspects of the event.
The whole day and evening affair started with a grand entrance of the national flags of the Philippines and the UAE and singing of the two country’s national anthems and followed by a parade of banners of the participating Filipino clubs and organizations, opening of the tiangge, and military, giving out of the Bayanihan Festival souvenir program, cheering squad, military silent drill and majorette exhibition performances.
By afternoon several competitions were held, such as the kids chess, kite flying, lantern-making, group tent, kids ballroom and Palarong Pinoy contests. By nightfall onwards, there were a lot of song and dance performances such as cultural dances, Latin dance numbers by two Filipino dance clubs and a Christmas carol performance by the Christian Voices Chorale. Much-awaited also was the appearance of Filipino celebrities Mark Herras, Jennylyn Mercado and Mang Mike who were the invited guest stars near the end of the show.
One of the highlights of the festival was the second job fair organized by the University of the Philippines Alumni Association UAE Chapter (UPAA UAE) for Filipinos who are looking for jobs, especially for those who have just arrived in the country on visit visas.
Thousands of Filipinos arrived in Dubai everyday looking for greener pastures, one that they cannot find back home in the Philippines. But with the global recession happening in the world right now, many OFWs in the UAE were also affected with the downsizing of manpower in several construction companies, thus losing their jobs. So, several Filipinos who have been laid off from their companies headed to the job fair to be able to transfer to a new company before their work visa runs out, forcing them to return to the Philippines.
Five Dubai-based companies participated in the job fair and these are Careertunity, Royal and Sun Alliance Insurance, Modern Freight, Wilbursmith Associates and Staff United.
The Bayanihan festival opened at 9 a.m. but even as early as 6 am, people were already lining up for the job fair with around a total of 400 people handing out their CVs and applying to these companies at the end of the event.
The first-ever Bayanihan Festival in the UAE proved that the Filipinos abroad can be one. Is a true testament to the Filipino expatriates’ resilience in the most trying of times and the never-ending belief that there is strength in national unity.
The festival was supported and attended by Philippine Embassy officials in the UAE headed by Ambassador Libran Cabactulan and Consul General Benito Valeriano along with former Caloocan City Mayor Rey Malonzo who visited Dubai to talk about Philhealth.
The proceeds of the festival will be going to the distressed wards at the POLO-OWWA in Dubai, the Filipino Expatriates in the UAE Foundation (FILEX), Gawad Kalinga 777, and the conflict-affected people in Mindanao.
The festival was also held in celebration of the Muslim celebration Eid Al Fitr (December 7 to 9) and Christmas Day and New Year’s Day which are all celebrated in this liberal Islamic country.
(Photos taken by Quay Evano. For more info and photos, you may visit www.bayanihanuae.org or http://quaynova.multiply.com/photos/album/17/UPAA_UAE_Job_Fair)
Bayanihan is one of the most powerful, strongest and nationalistic word in the Filipino language. It is one of those words that define the Filipino -- a must for his “Filipino-ness” to be complete. It has no literal counterpart in the English language but it can be defined as “working together towards a common goal for a compatriot or for the country.” The word evokes the image of camaraderie, responsibility, unity and sacrifice all done in the spirit of fun and nationalistic pride.
And this imagery is precisely what was seen during the first-ever Bayanihan Festival organized by the leaders of the Filipino community in Dubai and the Northern Emirates headed by Engineer Orandantes Delizo, who has lived and worked in the UAE for more than two decades.
It was held on December 6, 2008 at the Megabowl Amphitheater, Zabeel Park in Dubai with around 5,000 Filipinos from all over the UAE taking part including Filipino clubs and organizations, Filipino schools, and Filipino companies who helped the organizers in many aspects of the event.
The whole day and evening affair started with a grand entrance of the national flags of the Philippines and the UAE and singing of the two country’s national anthems and followed by a parade of banners of the participating Filipino clubs and organizations, opening of the tiangge, and military, giving out of the Bayanihan Festival souvenir program, cheering squad, military silent drill and majorette exhibition performances.
By afternoon several competitions were held, such as the kids chess, kite flying, lantern-making, group tent, kids ballroom and Palarong Pinoy contests. By nightfall onwards, there were a lot of song and dance performances such as cultural dances, Latin dance numbers by two Filipino dance clubs and a Christmas carol performance by the Christian Voices Chorale. Much-awaited also was the appearance of Filipino celebrities Mark Herras, Jennylyn Mercado and Mang Mike who were the invited guest stars near the end of the show.
One of the highlights of the festival was the second job fair organized by the University of the Philippines Alumni Association UAE Chapter (UPAA UAE) for Filipinos who are looking for jobs, especially for those who have just arrived in the country on visit visas.
Thousands of Filipinos arrived in Dubai everyday looking for greener pastures, one that they cannot find back home in the Philippines. But with the global recession happening in the world right now, many OFWs in the UAE were also affected with the downsizing of manpower in several construction companies, thus losing their jobs. So, several Filipinos who have been laid off from their companies headed to the job fair to be able to transfer to a new company before their work visa runs out, forcing them to return to the Philippines.
Five Dubai-based companies participated in the job fair and these are Careertunity, Royal and Sun Alliance Insurance, Modern Freight, Wilbursmith Associates and Staff United.
The Bayanihan festival opened at 9 a.m. but even as early as 6 am, people were already lining up for the job fair with around a total of 400 people handing out their CVs and applying to these companies at the end of the event.
The first-ever Bayanihan Festival in the UAE proved that the Filipinos abroad can be one. Is a true testament to the Filipino expatriates’ resilience in the most trying of times and the never-ending belief that there is strength in national unity.
The festival was supported and attended by Philippine Embassy officials in the UAE headed by Ambassador Libran Cabactulan and Consul General Benito Valeriano along with former Caloocan City Mayor Rey Malonzo who visited Dubai to talk about Philhealth.
The proceeds of the festival will be going to the distressed wards at the POLO-OWWA in Dubai, the Filipino Expatriates in the UAE Foundation (FILEX), Gawad Kalinga 777, and the conflict-affected people in Mindanao.
The festival was also held in celebration of the Muslim celebration Eid Al Fitr (December 7 to 9) and Christmas Day and New Year’s Day which are all celebrated in this liberal Islamic country.
(Photos taken by Quay Evano. For more info and photos, you may visit www.bayanihanuae.org or http://quaynova.multiply.com/photos/album/17/UPAA_UAE_Job_Fair)
By Marjorie Gorospe
MANILA is a place where you can find a lot of colleges and universities in the country. Thus a portion of Manila has earned the name of "university belt." Today, you find students roaming the streets of Manila. They come from different places to seek education here. Even foreign students would travel to Manila to finish college.
But for Ambao and Jimmy, their situation is a different. Both kids wonder the streets of Manila. They are among many families displaced by the war in Basilan. They ended up in Manila because they believed they could have a better life here.
I met Ambao and Jimmy -- not their real names –in the streets of Manila. I asked them how old they were but I didn’t get a straight answer. I really am not sure of their ages. But they were really young and they are hard to miss because they are often seen playing improvised drums in the streets of Manila. They would hop from one passenger jeepney to another to play music -- hoping passengers would be entertained and eventually give them loose change.
Ambao was obviously too young to be roaming the streets of Manila and begging for money. When I was about to ask them about their parents, Ambao added, "Nasa kalsada din sila, nanlilimos. [They are also in the streets begging]."
Ambao and other so-called Tambol kids are often seen in España, Manila. “We left Basilan because it is hard to live there," said Ambao in Filipino.
There’s no question that Ambao and other tambol kids are very talented. So I thought maybe they dream of studying and becoming serious musicians someday. However, Ambao sees himself doing the same thing in the future. Asked if he wants to study soon, he said, “Ayaw ko mag-aral. Ito lang ako, magtatambol. [I do not want to study, I am just this, a drum player].”
It was quite ironic that Ambao was not interested in studying despite being surrounded by schools. If not for the war in Basilan, maybe things could have been different.
After my brief conversations with Ambao and Jimmy and the rest of Tambol kids, I saw them hop into another passenger jeepney and play their improvised drums to passengers.
Ambao was obviously too young to be roaming the streets of Manila and begging for money. When I was about to ask them about their parents, Ambao added, "Nasa kalsada din sila, nanlilimos. [They are also in the streets begging]."
Ambao and other so-called Tambol kids are often seen in España, Manila. “We left Basilan because it is hard to live there," said Ambao in Filipino.
There’s no question that Ambao and other tambol kids are very talented. So I thought maybe they dream of studying and becoming serious musicians someday. However, Ambao sees himself doing the same thing in the future. Asked if he wants to study soon, he said, “Ayaw ko mag-aral. Ito lang ako, magtatambol. [I do not want to study, I am just this, a drum player].”
It was quite ironic that Ambao was not interested in studying despite being surrounded by schools. If not for the war in Basilan, maybe things could have been different.
After my brief conversations with Ambao and Jimmy and the rest of Tambol kids, I saw them hop into another passenger jeepney and play their improvised drums to passengers.
By Anna Valmero
AT first look, anyone can mistake him as the lost twin brother of Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao. But blood relatives they are not.
Pacman’s double “Manny Paksiw” joined the motorcade of Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao along Metro Manila. Riding a yellow truck at the end of the convoy, Manny Paksiw said it is his way of showing support for the international boxing champ.
“Hindi ko lang siya idol, kaibigan ko rin siya at ito ay paraan ng pagsuporta ko sa kanya bilang kaibigan [He is not only my boxing idol, he is also my friend and this is my way of supporting him],” he said.
Born Johny Dagami Jr. in real life, he said it has been a tradition for him to welcome his arrival from the airport and congratulate Pacquiao before his departure to his native city General Santos.
Manny Paksiw said he went to the NAIA airport as early as 3 A.M. to welcome Pacquiao on his arrival Wednesday. He also paid Pacquiao a visit at the Renaissance Hotel in Makati, where his idol stayed since Wednesday.
He said his friendship with Pacman starts way back the international champ’s beginnings at the local TV show “Blow-by-Blow.”
At that time, neighbors in Leyte would say they looked very much alike. Later in 2000, he moved to Manila to try his luck. When Pacquaio saw him, he was given the name “Manny Paksiw,” which he is now popularly known. That was the start of his career as double or stunt man for Manny Pacquiao in local films while being paired as guest with Pacman in local TV shows.
“Proud ako kay Manny na nanalo na naman siya ulit kay Dela Hoya. Alam naman natin si Manny kapag lumaban, nandun lahat ng suporta ng mga Pilipino [I am proud that Manny won again. We know that when he fights, the Filipino country supports him],”he said.
He said that before the Dela Hoya fight, he is confident Pacquiao would get the title. “Kayang kaya ni Manny. Naalala ko pa nga noon pag nakakasama ko pa siya sa shows sa TV, pag binibiro niya ako ng jab, naramdaman ko yung hangin na parang malakas [He can win the fight. I remember during the days when we have shows together at a local TV station, he would jokingly give me a jab and I can feel something strong like wind],” he said.
When asked to comment about Pacquiao’s plan to enter politics, he said he would continue to support Pacquiao.
“Kapag talagang gusto niya na makatulong sa pagpapaunlad ng bayan, bakit hindi pagbigyan kung saan siya gusto tumakbo. Alam kong pangarap niya na tumulong sa bayan natin, pwede rin naming hindi siya tumakbo basta tutulong nalang siya [If he really wants to help people why not give him a chance to serve. I know that he dreams to help his fellow Filipinos although I guess, he can also help even if he is not in office],” he said.
Dagami Jr. is a standup comedian as one of the Spice Guys performing at local club Spice One. He is also president of the Manny Paksiw Stuntmen Group Inc., a character actor and standup comedian group
SOME people give up easily but not Filipino computer graphic artist Ronnie Sapinoso who suffers from Cerebral Palsy. Rejected so many times because of his condition, Sapinoso wanted to become a filmmaker ever since he was kid. His interest was sparked after he saw the Disney movie Pinocchio.
“Nakita mo naman ako, walang nagtitiwala sa akin. Wala akong connection. [As you can see, no one trusts me. I don’t have any connections.],” said Sapinoso.
Sapinoso, currently a freelance computer graphic artist, said that if he would just be given a chance to work, then his wife would not need to leave and work in Singapore, leave him and their child in the Philippines.
Despite having Cerebral Palsy, Sapinoso has managed to move forward.
“Ayaw kong isuko ‘yung pangarap kong ‘yun. Gusto kong mag-direct. Gusto kong gumawa ng pelikula. [I don’t want to give up on my dream to be a filmmaker. I want to direct. I want to make a film.],” said Sapinoso.
Good thing Sapinoso discovered the world of animation.
Sapinoso said that animation allows him to become the director, scriptwriter, editor, and artist.
“Wala kang ibang ka-deal kung hindi sarili mo at ‘yung computer. [You don’t have to deal with anyone except yourself and the computer.],” Sapinoso said.
For Sapinoso, animation is not only an art but a way for him to communicate.
“Lahat ng art, hindi yan pagiging selfish. Kaya ka nag-art kasi gusto mong ma-touch ‘yung puso ng pinaghahandugan mo ng art. [Art is not selfish. You’re doing art because you want to touch the hearts of the people that inspires your artwork],” he said.
Sapinoso who has a degree in Law admitted that he has no formal training in animation. Through trial and error, he learned to animate graphics and has created at least 10 animated films.
One of the 10 animated films was Connect Ed, which is about a robot who lost its creator to World War III and is longing to regain its creator.
“‘Yung animation ko, ‘di nagpapa-cute. May kaunting humor pero kinakatok nito ‘yung puso mo na maging human ka. [My animation is not the type that presents only the lighter side of the story but it also wants to touch the heart and reminds that we’re humans.],” said Sapinoso.
His 3D animated film Connect Ed is now a finalist in Aniboom.com.
Here's the video that he created.
Watch more cool animation and creative cartoons at aniBoom
Apart from animation, the vocal Sapinoso has also done short films and comics. He has a handful of local comic artist heroes, including Carlo J. Caparas who also started in comics before he took up directing movies.
“Lalaban ako hangga’t kaya ko. Gagawa ako ng animation hangga’t may pambayad ako sa kuryente. [I will fight as long as I can. I will animate as long as I have money to pay for the electricity.],” Sapinoso said.
Sapinoso also admires directors Tim Burton and Steven Spielberg. Some of his animated films are inspired by Burton.
“Tinulak ako sa lupa pero bumangon. Nilalayuan ako pero lumalapit pa rin ako. [I was pushed to the ground but I stood up. Many avoid me yet I still reach out.],” said Sapinoso.
Asked for advice, Sapinoso said, “Kahit alam mong puputok ka na, take chance basta masunod mo ‘yung passion mo. [Even if you’re about to burst, take chances to follow your passion.]"
By Izah Morales
IN a local slum area where people are seen drinking alcohol, playing bingo, taking fleas out of a dog, there were women who chose to take the road less traveled.
Every Tuesday, about 50 women residents of barangay 182 Mulawin in Pasay City gather in the barangay hall to crochet bags out of plastic and recycled materials.
“Wala naman akong ginagawa sa bahay. Nababagot lang ako [I’m doing nothing at home. I just get bored.],” said Rosalina Aquino, 41, and mother of four children who was among the women who has decided to be part of a unique project.
Before, Aquino spends an afternoon doing nothing. But after Aquino decided to join the workshops of the “Invisible Project” of artist Ann Wizer, she realized that she can engage in an activity that is worthwhile.
Former factory worker and now a housewife, Andrea Dosal, 35, and mother to six kids, says that she can now make ends meet through crocheting plastic bags.
“Kahit nasa bahay ka lang, may perang dumadating. Makakatulong sa mga bata, pambaon nila. ‘pag may project sila, at least may nabibigay ako. [Even if you’re at home, there’s money. It helps me earn some money to give to my kids for their school projects.],” said Dosal.
These women’s attitude towards plastic has changed because they’ve realized how much money they can make in recycling it.
“Nung una tinatapon namin. Ngayon pinapahalagahan na namin dahil dun kami kumikita. Noon balewala lang ang mga plastics. Ngayon mahalaga na sa amin bawat plastic. [Before, we just throw plastic away. Now, we value them because we earn from them. Before, we just ignore it. Now, every plastic is important to us.],” said Aquino.
Dosal said that is now collecting plastic instead of just throwing it in the river.
A handful of out-of-school youths have also become part of the Invisible Project.
Cherry Pie Bermudez, 18 years old, said she learned crocheting when she was still studying in high school. But then, they used threads instead of plastic to crochet.
“Ang plastic pala may saysay sa mga tao. Dito napapakita mo ung kaalaman mo, ‘yung alam mong gawin kahit sa plastic lang siya. [I realized that plastic has use. You can show what you can do even by just using plastic (as material for crocheting)],” Bermudez said.
Through the Invisible Project, not only were the women’s attitudes towards plastic changed but also their relationship to each other.
“Nagkaroon kami dito ng mga bonding. ‘Yung mga dating hindi magkaka-kilala, ngayon magkakakilala na. ‘Yung mga dating hindi nag-uusap, ngaun nag-uusap na. [We’ve been bonding. Some who never knew each other are now friends. They are now talking with each other.],” said Aquino.
“‘Yung ibang tao na walang ginagawa, imbes na tumambay sila o kaya kung anong ginagawa nila, gumawa na lang sila ng kagaya nito. Malalaman pa nila ang talento nila. [To people who have nothing else to do, they should learn doing what we did because they will discover new talents.],” said Bermudez.
Indeed the once humdrum afternoon in one slam area has turned into something more fruitful for women who chose to make a difference. In fact, as they help themselves earn a living, they are also helping Mother Earth.
IN a local slum area where people are seen drinking alcohol, playing bingo, taking fleas out of a dog, there were women who chose to take the road less traveled.
Every Tuesday, about 50 women residents of barangay 182 Mulawin in Pasay City gather in the barangay hall to crochet bags out of plastic and recycled materials.
“Wala naman akong ginagawa sa bahay. Nababagot lang ako [I’m doing nothing at home. I just get bored.],” said Rosalina Aquino, 41, and mother of four children who was among the women who has decided to be part of a unique project.
Before, Aquino spends an afternoon doing nothing. But after Aquino decided to join the workshops of the “Invisible Project” of artist Ann Wizer, she realized that she can engage in an activity that is worthwhile.
Former factory worker and now a housewife, Andrea Dosal, 35, and mother to six kids, says that she can now make ends meet through crocheting plastic bags.
“Kahit nasa bahay ka lang, may perang dumadating. Makakatulong sa mga bata, pambaon nila. ‘pag may project sila, at least may nabibigay ako. [Even if you’re at home, there’s money. It helps me earn some money to give to my kids for their school projects.],” said Dosal.
These women’s attitude towards plastic has changed because they’ve realized how much money they can make in recycling it.
“Nung una tinatapon namin. Ngayon pinapahalagahan na namin dahil dun kami kumikita. Noon balewala lang ang mga plastics. Ngayon mahalaga na sa amin bawat plastic. [Before, we just throw plastic away. Now, we value them because we earn from them. Before, we just ignore it. Now, every plastic is important to us.],” said Aquino.
Dosal said that is now collecting plastic instead of just throwing it in the river.
A handful of out-of-school youths have also become part of the Invisible Project.
Cherry Pie Bermudez, 18 years old, said she learned crocheting when she was still studying in high school. But then, they used threads instead of plastic to crochet.
“Ang plastic pala may saysay sa mga tao. Dito napapakita mo ung kaalaman mo, ‘yung alam mong gawin kahit sa plastic lang siya. [I realized that plastic has use. You can show what you can do even by just using plastic (as material for crocheting)],” Bermudez said.
Through the Invisible Project, not only were the women’s attitudes towards plastic changed but also their relationship to each other.
“Nagkaroon kami dito ng mga bonding. ‘Yung mga dating hindi magkaka-kilala, ngayon magkakakilala na. ‘Yung mga dating hindi nag-uusap, ngaun nag-uusap na. [We’ve been bonding. Some who never knew each other are now friends. They are now talking with each other.],” said Aquino.
“‘Yung ibang tao na walang ginagawa, imbes na tumambay sila o kaya kung anong ginagawa nila, gumawa na lang sila ng kagaya nito. Malalaman pa nila ang talento nila. [To people who have nothing else to do, they should learn doing what we did because they will discover new talents.],” said Bermudez.
Indeed the once humdrum afternoon in one slam area has turned into something more fruitful for women who chose to make a difference. In fact, as they help themselves earn a living, they are also helping Mother Earth.
AGE does not matter in protests.
When I was covering a rally this week, I saw this four-year-old child who joined her grandparents in their call to extend and reform the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP).
There were also other children ages 10 to15 years who gave out flyers to passers-by.
I approached one of the children. His name was Ryan Christian Banayo, a 10-year-old boy whose parents are farmers at the Hacienda Yulo in Canlubang, Calamba City. I asked the boy why he was there and what they were fighting for. The boy just gave me an innocent look, and smiled.
His mother, Nancy Banayo, explained later that she wanted the child to see that they were fighting for their rights.
From Waltermart Muñoz, the group of farmers from Southern Luzon ran along Edsa and ended in front of the Department of Agrarian Reform office, where they continued their protest. The children did not mind the heat, as they run alongside their parents.
Romeo Olaez, farmer-leader from Hacienda Yulo, said he grew up tilling the land in Canlubang.
“Kung ang mga lupa na yan ay hindi maipapamigay sa aming magsasaka, ano pa ang mangyayari sa ating bansa at sa mga darating pang mga panahon? [If those lands will not be given to us farmers, what will happen to the country in the coming future?],” Olaez asked.
Since 1993, the Hacienda Yulo farmers were displaced from tilling 7,000 hectares of land in Canlubang after the Department of Justice favored the Yulos, according to Evangeline Mendoza, Deputy National Coordinator of Ugnayan ng mga Nagsasariling Lokal na Samahan ng Mamamayan sa Kanayunan.
“Ilalaan daw ang lupa na golf course at residential area kaya nabigyan ng exemption order. Ngunit nanatili na ang lupa ay sakahan. Ang ginawa lang ng pamilya Yulo ay nilagyan ng bakod at pinagbawalan sila na magsaka. Kaya ngayon ang pitong libong ektarya ay naka-tiwangwang. [The land was supposed to be converted to a golf course and residential area. That’s why it was given an exemption order but it remains to be a farm land. The Yulo family however put up a fence and banned the farmers from tilling the land. Today, the 7,000 hectare-land remains unused],” explained Mendoza.
Mendoza said the country would not have any food shortage problems if government distributed land to the farmers.
“Kami ay nasa edad na ang pinaglalaban namin ngayon ay ‘yung aming mga anak at ‘yung mga susunod pa naming mga lahi. [We are now old but we are still fighting for the future of our children and the next generation.],” said Olaez.
By Marjorie Gorospe
SCAVENGING might be the last resort for most people. But for those who live near the Smoky Mountain, it is their only choice for living.
Dave Bajado, 18, never knew how to define a peaceful life. Recalling his childhood, all he can remember is her mother selling his sibling for P500. He has many siblings but all have different fathers.
When he was 12 years old, Bajado experience moving from one home to another. He admitted taking drugs mainly because of his peers’ influence. Along with his peers, they worked for an illegal recruiter who sent them to a bar in a province.
Bajado had no father figure to guide him. She also lost her mother soon after selling her child.
He was also taken in for rehabilitation after was caught using illegal drugs.
He thought life was hopeless until his sister told her, “Everyone is responsible for their action, just make sure you won’t regret what you’re doing now.”
That was a turning point for him. He realized that while he has sisters to help, they already have their own families. He also realized that if he continues being delinquent, nothing will happen to him.
Bajado eventually gravitated towards scavenging. “Malapit lang kasi sa amin, pati inaya na rin ako ng kaibigan ko (It is near to us and a friend of mine also asked me to [go scavenging.])”
While scavenging, the Educational Research and Development Assistance Foundation Inc. found him. It was going to be his stepping stone towards a new life.
“It so happened that in that area, Educational Research and Development Assistance (ERDA) Foundation Inc has special program for scavengers called Samahan ng mga Batang Nanambakan (SABANA). Someone asked me if I want to continue studying, I never hesitated and grab it right away,” Bajado said.
SABANA provides educational assistance. It also has programs like painting, dancing, acting and other forms of alternative workshops to develop the students’ skills. It proved beneficial for students like Bajado who often are lured to taking drugs and other vices.
Asked what was the greatest lesson he learned from his experiences, he said: “Tumayo sa sariling paa at mahalin ang sarili kasi banding huli, buhay ko naman ang masisira at wala rin akong mapapala.(I learned how to stand on my own and love myself because in the end, nothing will happen to me if I don’t take care of myself.)”
Bajado is now thankful that ERDA has given him another chance in life. Soon, he will be taking an examination to qualify for a college education.
By Marjorie Gorospe
Whatever is happening in America affects everyone. This is a bitter sweet reality of the globalization. This is also the reason why the world stopped to watch the US elections and subsequent victory of President-elect Barack Obama.
Benjamin Pimentel, a reporter and Filipino immigrant in America, is one of the millions of Filipinos who got interested in the US elections. Seeing the possibility that for the first time in history an African American would be ruling the America, Pimentel wrote a book aptly titled, “Pareng Barack, Filipinos in Obama’ America.”
Pareng Barack is a book about the reactions of Filipinos residing in America. The book is also a collection of stories Pimentel gathered from fellow Filipinos in America during the US Presidential campaign.
Pimentel felt uncertain while writing the book. “It is a gamble whether he would win or not,” said Pimentel. It was also a challenge putting all the stories together and using the narrative style of writing.
If Obama did not win the US Presidential elections, he would have just scratched the book project.
Pimentel said “Pareng Barack” was the fastest book he has ever written, putting it all together in three weeks. His enthusiasm was boosted mainly by watching Obama’s campaign and his potential victory.
Pareng Barack is a man of color and a representation of race precisely not of the dominant one. Many awaited his victory since his winning also means equality of races in America.
Although race has always been tackled in other books, Pareng Barack’s discussion of race is filtered though the Filipino’s experience and his own experiences, Pimentel said.
Pareng Barack’s victory is also seen as hope for everyone and Filipinos abroad.
“A person of color, African American winning the presidency is something significant. As a Filipino immigrant and father of 2 Filipino-Americans; it is exciting in terms of how this change affect my sons' future,” Pimentel confessed.
“There is this barrier, now a shattered wall which many people think would be shattered for many years,” he added.
Pimentel’s book is now out in the bookstores nationwide.
WHAT would a Civil Engineering Licensure Examination (CELE) board topnotcher construct?
A home for the squatters was the answer of topnotcher Maricel Aquino who garnered a score of 99.1 percent in the November 2008 CELE.
“Ayaw ko kasi ng may palaboy laboy. Nung nagtrabaho ako dito sa Manila, nakita ko ang gulo. May mga squatters. Gusto kong magconstruct ng matitirhan nila [I don’t want to see people loitering in the streets. When I started working here in Manila, I saw chaos. There were many squatters. I want to construct a home for them.],” said Aquino.
Aside from building a home for the squatters, Aquino would like to focus on the field of sanitary engineering in the country.
“Basura. ‘Yung ang nakikita kong unang-unang problema. Para sa akin, dun bumaba ang Pilipinas. [Garbage. That’s the primary problem I see in our country. For me, it has degraded the Philippines.],” explained Aquino.
Aquino earned her degree in BS Civil Engineering at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), which was noted as the best performing school in Civil Engineering with 100-percent passing rate (28 passers out of 28 examinees).
Despite working full-time in the quality control division of EBA Construction simultaneous with her review classes from June until August, Aquino managed to balance her time and top the exams along with 1,672 passers.
“Ito talaga unexpected sa akin. Planado na kasi para sa akin ung buhay ko. Magta-trabaho muna ako before review. Iipon muna ako. [It was really unexpected. I already planned my life. I will work first before review. I’ll save up money for the review.],” related Aquino.
For Aquino, taking the refresher course in her review classes helped her a lot in answering the three-part and two-day examination.
“Nag-resign na ako nung September at nag-focus na ako sa review. Nakatulong talaga ‘yung refresher course kasi halo- halo ‘yung tanung dun. [I resigned from my job in September and focused on the review. The refresher course helped me a lot because the questions were mixed.],” added Aquino.
Having been exposed to Civil Engineering work, Aquino sees the field of Civil Engineering as a bridge that connects everything.
“Lahat ng fields sakop niya: civil works, construction, sanitation, piping. Lahat ng nakikita mo diyan, hindi mo pwedeng masabi na walang connection ung CE dun. [All of the fields are covered like civil works, construction, sanitation and piping. Everything that you see is interconnected with Civil Engineering.],” explained Aquino.
Aquino will be leading the oath taking of the new civil engineers on December 20, 2008 at the Plenary Hall of the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City.
