Sulyap Dec 2008 (final For Printing)

OFW-KOREA-2006-001

Volume 2

Newsbit: DOLE, FEWA Monitor OFWs amid Crisis

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Newsbit: Prof. Emely Launches Book for a Cause

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Editorial: Christmas Love and New Year’s Hope

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Feature: The Confessions of the Writer

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Literary: Poems about Christmas and New Year

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Fun & Learn: Crossword & Number Puzzle, Comics 6

www.sulyapinoy.org

Issue 2

December 2008

by Dondave Jabay

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taewon, Seoul — Labor Attaché Delmer Cruz of the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) discussed the major labor issues including Korean won depreciation, recent employers plan to abolish the EPS free accommodation and food benefits, pending Memorandum of Agreement (MOU) for EPS, and updates on RP-ROK Social Security Agreement during the 2nd Leaders Forum sponsored by the Philippine Embassy in Seoul led by Ambassador Luis Cruz last Nov. 30. Labatt Cruz said that the Korean won has depreciated by 20 up to 26 percent against the US dollar in November. “I believe that all of us have already felt the impact of the sharp Korean won depreciation which severely affecting our regular remittances sent to our families in the Philippines,” he shared. Photo by Felix Ferrer Moreno de Isla, HRWOFC officer (standing-center) inquires about Gasoline Tax Refund as Labatt Cruz (standing-rightmost) and other Filcom leaders listen during the 2nd Leaders Forum at the Philippine Embassy building in Itaewon, Seoul.

by Alden Balgos outh Korea — T h e Korea Ministry of Labor (MOL) thru its website confirmed that the minimum wage for workers is set to increase to 4,000 won per hour, up by 6.1% from the current minimum wage, effective Jan. 1, 2009.

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The MOL also shared that despite difficult economic conditions such as recession and rising prices of commodities, the Minimum Wage Council including workers, employers and public interest members have reached an agreement on a proposed minimum wage increase for the second year in a row and decided to confirm the proposed minimum wage as no objection was raised by either workers' or employers' organizations. The new minimum wage which translates into 32,000 won a day or 836,000 won a month for those who work eight hours every weekday is expected to benefit 2,085,000 or 13.1% of the total workers who live on the minimum wage. In addition, even in case that working hours per week are reduced from 44 to 40 hours, workers should be paid not less than the amount of minimum wage calculated based on the number of working hours before the reduction. (turn to page 2)

“Also, the ongoing Financial Education Campaign sponsored and well promoted by the Philippine Embassy plays a very important (turn to page 7)

by Edward Castro aju City, Gyeonggi-do — “Thank you and I will miss you all,” said Elizer Peñaranda as he bided goodbye to his co-editors and relinquished the position as editor-in-chief of SULYAPINOY Newsletter to Dondave Jabay, the current managing editor of the newsletter, last Dec. 13 held at Youeal Leisure Park in Majang-ri, Paju City during the two-day Christmas celebration.

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After roughly 14 months of being an editor, Peñaranda will be relinquishing his post and temporarily leaving the newsletter for personal reason and go back to the Philippines. However, he still committed to work with the newsletter as a consultant. "Sir Dave has proven himself not just as a potential leader but also an editor who is innovative in many areas. I am convinced that under his leadership SULYAPINOY will continue to flourish and strengthen its commitment, quality and earn more respect from different Filipino groups and agencies despite challenges,” said Peñaranda.

Photo by Felix Ferrer SULYAP’ outgoing EIC Elizer Peñaranda (left) turnovers the SULYAPINOY Key to incoming EIC Dondave Jabay (right) during SULYAPINOY Christmas celebration.

“I will always remember those who supported me and the newspaper through the good and difficult times. Although saddened of my leaving, I will be keeping in touch with all of our staff members. I believe that it is (turn to page 2) the best time for me to pursue

by Rebenson Recaña give legal explanations on the Agreement and to eoul, South Korea - In line with its crusade provide updates and answers to the petition letter against the Social Security Agreement besupported by 5,415 signatures from various Filipino tween the Republic of South Korea and the Philipcommunities across Korea recently sent to the Philippines, Filipino EPS Workers Association (FEWA) pine Senate and its office. sent a formal letter to Social Security System (SSS) President Romulo Neri on Nov. 28, requesting the (turn to page 2) The letter which was supported agency to send representatives to Korea who will

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SULYAPINOY is accepting cash donation for its monthly printing expenses. You may deposit them @ Account #: 049702 04 058587 / Account Name: Sofonias N. Paragsa / Bank: KB or Kookmin Bank

NEWSBITS DOLE, FEWA Monitor OFWs amid Crisis by Sofonias Paragsa outh Korea — The Department of Labor and (NRCO) service registration form will be filled up Employment (DOLE) thru Philippine Overseas by workers who are due for repatriation to the Labor Office (POLO) sent a formal letter via email to Philippines. various Filipino communities (Filcoms) including Filipino EPS Workers Association (FEWA) last Dec. FEWA-SULYAPINOY, in its effort to support 9 announcing its monitoring to any allegedly disDOLE and POLO, uploaded the forms on its webplaced OFWs in South Korea resulted by the current site to make them available to all workers if urglobal financial crisis. gently needed. The forms can be downloaded at http://www.sulyapinoy.org/ portal page. In his email, Labor Attaché Delmer Cruz said that POLO has attached two different forms to be filled up More so, Labatt Cruz requested other concerned by the affected workers. The first form will be filled up groups to submit all filled up forms to POLO of the by those who were laid off, terminated, or whose Philippine Embassy in Seoul or can be faxed at working time was reduced but will remain and con(02) 3785 3624. Scanned copies can also be tinue to work in Korea. The second form or the soemailed to [email protected]. called National Reintegration Center for OFWs

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Prof. Emely Launches Book for a Cause by Amie Sison she has been serving. yehwadong, Seoul — Prof. Emely DicolenAbagat Ph. D., Chairperson of the Education Also, the author encouraged all migrants and their Committee and editorial-in-chief of Sambayanan families to be inspired and, at the same time, be a Newsletter of Hyehwadong Filipino Catholic Commudonor in buying a copy for 10,000 won while its pronity (HFCC)) launched an inspirational book entitled ceeds will benefit the scholarship program of the poor "And God Smiled Back" last Dec.7 at Saint Benedict stundents in Nakar, Quezon. The said scholarship Parish Church. has been the flagship project of the education committee of HFCC for years. The book touches the successes, struggles, personal experiences of Prof. Emely as a child, mother, eduContact Prof.Emely at 010-5160-2928 or cator and missionary and how she inspired the [email protected], or Edison Pinlac at ple who motivated her to write for migrant workers on 010-2906-3109 or [email protected] for how good God in blessing her with pains, survival orders and inquiries. and love her for her four children and the migrants

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Filipinos Celebrate ‘Paskuhan sa Ansan’ by Elizer Peñaranda

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nsan, Gyeonggi-do — Jammed with Filipino and Korean visitors, the Ansan Filipino Community (AFC) sponsored Paskuhan sa Ansan 2008 last Dec.21 at Wonguk High School Stadium. Themed with “Komunidad Mo, Kasama Mo Ngayong Pasko,” AFC invited all Filipino workers and foreign guests in a celebration filled with surprises, Pinoy food, fun and games as facilitated by Billy Vela, AFC former president. Meanwhile, AFC President Kathlia de Castro told SULYAP’ about the tradition of AFC in promoting Filipino values and activities during Christmas like

FEWA Requests SSS by Filcom leaders, further requested an advance written response while its representatives is yet to come to Korea. "Until now, the Filipino migrant workers in South Korea are asking why the Philippine government signed the agreement without proper consultation. Many workers are so much worried and get stress because we feel that this agreement is unfair to OFWs in South Korea,” said a concerned worker to FEWA. However, SSS Member Relations Department Head Eugenia De La Cruz informed FEWA thru email that

simbang gabi, exchange gifts and community party despite the current economic crisis which have attracted many to attend the annual event. However, Galilea Women’s association (GWA) led by Ana Maria Yoon shared that they are thankful for the warm welcome AFC has given to Korean spouses to widen both programs in 2009. AFC has been active in providing services to migrants for 16 years and earned achievements including Gawad Fr. Glenn Giovanni Jaron Award-most outstanding Filipino Community in South Korea. the said letter was forwarded to Mr. Neri and to the International Affairs & Expansion (IABE) office and subject for immediate response. Meanwhile, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Welfare Officer Esperanza Cobarrubias told SULYAPINOY of the tentative schedule of SSS representative to visit Korea on February 15 of next year. Also, the Philippine Embassy released a statement that the agreement is still pending with the committee on foreign relations of the Senate of the Philippines while there is no schedule yet of any public hearing to discuss the provisions of the Agreement.

2 SULYAPINOY DECEMBER 2008 www.sulyapinoy.org

Peñaranda Bids Goodbye higher studies and enhance my professional and academic qualifications. I would like to thank everyone who has given me inspiration to share as I head back to the final destination that awaits us all OFWs, home,” he added. However, Sofonias Paragsa, FEWA President and one of the prime movers of the newsletter said that the appointment of Jabay will most likely increase and enhance the relation and esteem of the group in serving our fellow OFWs in Korea and continue the dedication and passion Penaranda has started. “During his leadership, Penaranda has succeeded in upholding SULYAPINOY's commitment to responsible journalism, and concluded his service with the same intense of passion over community journalism, accomplishments and respect from the Filipino Community, leaving the newsletter with unprecedented issues,” Paragsa added. On the other hand, Jabay, a graduate of B.S. Electronics and Communications Engineering and currently working as Quality and Sales Engineer of DK UIL Co. Ltd. in Paju City, began his journalistic career during his scholastic years in Bohol, Philippines where he participated in different school publications. “It is not an easy task but I know with support from the people whom I’ve been working with and strong commitment to responsible journalism for the community will help me manage despite of inadequate journalistic experience. I also feel greatly humbled by the trust of the members of the newsletter board and staff, and confident with the help especially of our readers, sponsors, and friends, I could do a lot for the improvement of the newsletter,” Jabay shared. “SULYAPINOY will continuously providing relevant news stories to our fellow kababayans in South Korea, labor updates affecting migrant workers, and other related stories and literary compositions that will surely inspire our readers. SULYAPINOY will never be the same as I humbly ask for your support and the whole group can assure you that the passion to serve will always be the same.” he added. For the coming year, other newly appointed and reappointed staff members of the newsletter are as follows: Edward Castro, managing editor and at the same time news editor; Rebenson Recana, opinion editor; Amie Sison, literary editor; Alden Balgos, cartoonist; Felix Ferrer, photojournalist; Regina Arquiza, adviser; Prof. Emely Abagat and Fr. Alvin Parantar, MSP, consultants.

MOL: Minimun Wage Lee Ki-kwon, director general of the Labor Standards Bureau at the MOL said that in cooperation with workers' and employers' organizations, the Ministry will make its utmost efforts in education, publicity, guidance and inspection to ensure that the agreed new minimum wage shall be strictly observed among industrial sites even during the difficult economic situation. For more information about the minimum wage, visit the MOL website: www.molab.go.kr or call the MOL call center for foreign workers at 031-345-5000 #7.

EDITORIAL

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lobal economic crisis resulted to layoffs, low salary and unpredicted immediate repatriation, National Pension Scheme-Social Security System (NPS-SSS) bilateral agreement, planned abolishment of benefits of EPS workers on accommodation and food, inhumane crackdown and other issues like physical and verbal abuses, discrimination, worsening poverty and corruption in the Philippine government are intensely threatening around 52,000 OFWs in South Korea. These scenarios that deeply put Juan dele Cruz into fear would challenge our worth as Filipinos and believers in celebrating the yuletide cheers and in welcoming the brand new year. Is there any reason for hope and keep the celebration more meaningful? Despite the crucial challenges that affect the workers working overseas, we keep on finding ways to celebrate the joy as we keep the spirit of sharing it thru our talents, time, resources and love. The gift of love is truly the best gift we can share to everyone for Jesus Christ is the greatest gift we received from our Almighty Father as men celebrated the First Christmas in Bethlehem with Joseph and Mary who used to be migrants, too. Christmas is more than an occasion but a tradition of every Filipino family who keeps the love and share with among members of the family and uphold the Christian faith and values which have been the main reason of having the most important celebration of the year. As we share the joy and the blessings of what we’ve been receiving for the year round though threatened with global economic crunch, we are extremely optimistic that thru our values like communal services (bayanihan), industry, resilience, faith in God, we can overcome the anticipated predicaments and the expected crisis no matter how worse it will be in the coming year.

Today, most people say, “I don’t have money to buy gifts for my loved ones and friends.” Gifts need not be material things but we only based the celebration to such material gifts and expenses whether with or without the economic crisis, this will definitely be meaningless. Also, this is the best time to start off sharing the lessons in life by doing financial savings as part of the daily routine among family members and this season will be ideal for the encouragement and practice in saving first before expending to celebrate with the big bang during the current economic slowdown.

EDITORIAL STAFF

As migrant workers, our continued sacrifice in spite of determination, inspiration and courage is the reason enough to make the yuletide season worthcelebrating. Our sacrifices have become the gift of love we’ve been sharing to our family out of love. Celebrating Christmas by giving love to our family is the true meaning of the celebration amid the current global economic crisis and other concerned issues and we can surely achieve our goals and better opportunities to come as we join altogether in welcoming the brand new year-2009-full of hope and Faith in God. Maligayang Pasko at Masaganang Bagong Taon!

BOARD OF PUBLICATION

Editor-in-Chief: Elizer M. Peñaranda Managing Editor: Dondave Jabay Opinion Editor: Rebenson B. Recaña News Editor: Edward A. Castro Feature Editor: Elizer M. Peñaranda Literary Editor: Amie Sison Cartoonist: Alden C. Balgos Photojournalist: Felix S. Ferrer Layout Artist: Dondave Jabay Circulation Managers: Teofilo C. Camo; Alwyin A. Casiño; Marcelino M. Serdeña III Contributors: Sofonias Paragsa; Ehd Villarta Jr.; Michael Balba; Rodney Queman Adviser: Ma. Regina P. Arquiza Consultant: Fr. Alvin B. Parantar, MSP; Prof. Emely Dicolen-Abagat, Ph.D.

Chairman: Rebenson B. Recaña

Vice Chairman: Dondave Jabay

Board of Publication in: Outreach, Recreation and Religious Program: Alden C. Balgos Budget and Finance: Marcelino M. Serdeña III SULYAPINOY Website Development and Maintenance: Dondave Jabay Newsletter Sponsorship Program: Edward A. Castro Training & Workshop: Richard C. Corpuz

SULYAPINOY Office Address: 115-9 Songbuk-gu, Songbuk-dong, Seoul Korea FEWA Office Address & SULYAPINOY Distribution Center: Inside WOORI BANK, Hyehwa-dong Branch, Jongno-gu, Seoul

For Comments, Suggestions, Contributions & Advertisements

D I S C L A I M E R Different opinions are encourage to stimulate m e m b er i np u t a nd i nv o l v em en t . SULYAPINOY’s role is to provide information that permits FEWA members to develop informed opinions on subjects that will affect their status as migrant workers and, in some instances, their personal lives. FEWA does not hold itself responsible for statements made by any contributor. Statements or opinions expressed in SULYAPINOY reflect the views of the author(s) and not the official policy of FEWA unless so stated.

Please submit them to our website and the following emails below: Website: www.sulyapinoy.org News: [email protected] Opinion: [email protected]

Feature: [email protected] Literary: [email protected]

All Staff: [email protected] or [email protected] Editor-in-Chief: [email protected]

• • •

Managing / Sports: [email protected]

We reserve the right to refuse any submission we deem does not meet our policies and guidelines. SULYAPINOY is still in need of writers. Aspirants may email the Editorial Staff for more details. For literary entries, please limit your essay composition to a max. of 600 words only due to space limitation.

Thank you for your time and interest! www.sulyapinoy.org

SULYAPINOY DECEMBER 2008

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FEATURES by Elizer Peñaranda

“In the vicious cycle of migration, people seek for comfort, security and opportunity. Conducive workplace, good salary and benefits, personal growth and skills development were considerably some of the vital factors that gave birth to people like usEPS workers. South Korea’s global contributions have become unprecedented with the 8th United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-mun, astronaut Yi So-yeon, Olympic medalists, World Cup, Korean movies, culture and the arts and the Employment Permit System have gained the nation as Asia’s fourth largest economy. The EPS is a government labor program of the host South Korea and the sending countries like the Philippines which allowed foreign workforce including me who is highly determined though categorized as low-skilled to achieve my plans without fully understanding of what might come along the open gateway of opportunities and prestige. As I spent summer time in the Southern part of the peninsula fully geared enough to protect myself from hot metal debris as I ground the heavy metal piece in the shipyard. Culture shock, Korean language difficulty, abuse of “ppalli-ppalli” or the quickquick culture, homesickness and long exposure to3D (dirty, difficult and dangerous) jobs have shattered my dreams and impression of the “hallyu”- of working in South Korea which is an ideal place to work and live in, with kind-hearted coworkers, high salary, having fun and enjoy ones stay, Downcast due to complexities and culture shock, I was almost convinced of going back home. However, I firmly believed that there was no turning back for worse was waiting. But what’s next for a distressed like me? Nearly giving up, the lovely image of Korea couldn’t get off my tired and confused mind. Until, the phone rang with the voice of a friend saying: “How are you? Come and visit me in Hyehwadong.” Like music, it paved the way to rekindle my lost me and uphold my Korean dream. “I’m going to meet my friend in Hyehawadong!” I told myself. But, how could that possibly be to me with insufficient Korean words and didn’t even know where Hyehwadong was? The five-hour bus trip convinced that I was on my way to a new journey tiresome yet feisty. The voice within me called the innermost thought towards the metropolis where chilly winds of autumn blew the fallen yellow leaves. As they fell on the ground, I had my first step to St. Benedict Church of Hyehwadong as I was struck by the skyline of high glass buildings as they hailed me with cool breeze and in high spirit. Ultramodern structures festooned with Christmas decors and holly, dazzled with fun, shimmering, glittering stuffs to welcome the yuletide season and the first timers. Until, I found hope every time I had my visit to St; Benedict Church where the Hyehwadong Filipino Catholic

to what I’ve been working in the factory. Thru him, I began my way through as one of the editors of SULYAPINOY Newsletter As editor, there are so many that beset me with much problems but I treat them as challenges just like my work in the factory. I usually get tiresome after work so what I usually do is finding time to write while working but I neither have to be careful of not getting an accident nor caught by our supervisor. And this made me feel more appreciative over scratch of paper or empty boxes of snack food where I usually write my articles, “from trashes to riches”. And I’m proud to say that the newspaper survived though understaffed since we are blessed with gifted and compassionate writers and contributors who are It’s a great honor to serve SULYAPINOY as Editor-in- indeed shared most of their time and resources for the needed information and inspiration of the Chief and Feature Editor. community. The publication has taught me life. Knowing personalities and appreciating their contributions to various Filipino communities from Seoul to Busan have encouraged me more to love my worth as a writer of this influential and highly regarded group in Korea, FEWA, which was unreachable for someone like before.

A very memorable pose with Fr. Alvin Parantar, MSP (left), Labor Attaché Delmer Cruz (right), FEWA President Sofonias Paragsa (rightmost) and friends as I thank Hyehwadong Filipino Catholic Community (HFCC) for awarding me a Plaque of Appreciation.

Community (HFCC) hailed all believers who asked for graces and blessings to nourish oneself and picking up all the broken pieces of the helpless soul.

In pursuing my passion to serve thru writing articles, I have found my family in this journey. Friendly and warm FEWA President Sofonias Paragsa and volunteers and my SULYAPINOY co-editors namely Rebenson Recana, Dondave Jabay, Edward Castro, Amie Sison, Alden Balgos, Felix Ferrer and Maria Regina Arquiza who embraced and raised me up despite my weaknesses and being different. They are the real heroes behind me and other migrants who seek for truth, guidance and genuine commitment and service.

Since November of 2007, I’ve been exposed to a number of issues concerning labor, human rights, human trafficking and inspiring stories of Gawad Fr. Glenn Gionanni Jaron awardees, missionaries, public servants, community leaders and migrant workers. I would say that I’m privileged to share their stories as I had my first interview with Fr. Glenn, our hero priest. Also, the full support of Fr. Alvin Parantar, MSP to SULYAP’ and admire him for having the great and enormous talents and ideas in writing. It was Fr. Alvin Grace inspired me to become a regular churchgoer who suggested the newsletter its current name. until I observed and appreciated the committed volunteers of the community every Sunday. An idea of My stay here has been challenging yet fulfilling, not becoming a volunteer came in but I couldn’t for prox- for money reason, but for the worth-remembering imity reason for I was 3-hour far by bus and subway experiences with such people whom I never expected travel. to meet and work with (You all know who you are.) I remember the Sambayanan Newsletter where I dreamt to be a contributor and it did happen when I received the copy of my first published article. A strange feeling of fulfillment came in for I couldn’t explain and I decided to become a member of the Visayas-Mindanao Organization (Vismin) where I met Grace Boiser who gave me the courage and helped me find “home” during crossroads.

I love to become a volunteer but I didn’t know how. Until, Fr. Glenn Giovanni Jaron, MSP invited EPS workers to join the Filipino EPS Workers Association (FEWA) and I was curious and astonished about the group but I didn’t know how. It was, until, Amie Sison introduced me to a leader who eventually became my mentor and brother in Korea- Rebenson Recana.

Fostering harmony and freedom, appreciating my purpose, keeping my faith and upholding my Korean dreams which turned into goals are a few of the lessons learned in living it up with fellow OFWs despite struggles, hardship, distance and complexities which are considerably paradoxical in search of faith, peace, compassion and freedom.

It was Sir Reeve who gave me the strength to relive Indeed, I have found life and regained the strength my passion to write. A passion which I never thought thru writing in serving the community for the glory of would put me into a different perspective, in contrast God.

4 SULYAPINOY DECEMBER 2008 www.sulyapinoy.org

LITERARY PARA SA IYO KABAYAN

A Christmas Spirit

ni Amie Sison

by Ehd Villarta Jr - FEWA Member

Paskong pinoy na maipagamamalaki natin Malaking christmas tree na dapat tingalain Mga musika na nakakagaan ng damdamin Sa araw na iyon kay sarap salubungin.

Count the days Christmas is coming I hear the sounds I smell it's scents Love, joy, and sharing is what it bring Birth of Christ the Christmas represents

Alam kong hinahanap mo Diwa ng pasko ng bansang iniwan mo Upang sa Korea ay magbanat ng buto Mula sa puso ang buong sakripisyo.

People faces bright with joy Children's singing holding their toys Family and friends come along to enjoy The world celebrates the birth of this Boy

Long time ago He was born in Bethlehem Kings and shepherd ran to worship him He came to this world for us to redeem The light of His love shine brightly within

But we lose our focus in all the happenings We lose sight of what it's true meaning Christmas is not just overwhelming it seems It's the birth of Christ our finest blessing.

Christmas is not for just one day For loving, sharing, giving, are not to put away Wrap your heart with love, peace and kindness A wealth of presents a Christmas spirit!

Maraming Salamat Sir Eli ni Amie Sison (Dedicated to our Outgoing SULYAP EIC, Elizer Peñaranda)

Isang karangalan ang ika'y aming makilala Lalo na sa samahan ika'y makasama Nagsilbi sa kababayan sa bansang Korea Kahanga-hanga ang dedikasyong pinakita. Sa Sulyapinoy, ikaw ang tunay na sandigan Hindi matatawaran ang ibinahaging kaalaman Luminang din sa manunulat ng pahagayan Tunay na dedikasyon kahit wala ng tulugan. Balita na kailangan ng ating mga kababayan Ginising sa pamamagitan ng pakikialam Mga bagay na mahalaga at dapat malaman Nandyan ka para ang lahat ay paglingkuran. Hindi tama na ikaw ay aming pipigilan Sapagkat sa pag-uwi mo ay may tamang dahilan Mali naman kung isasarado ang aming isipan Kaligayahan naming ang lahat ng iyong kasiyahan.

KAHIT HINDI PASKO ni Michael B. Balba

Malamig na naman ang simoy ng hangin, Tila nagsasabing pasko ay paparating Sa sanggol na kaloob ng Ama sa atin Ang dapat na igawad papuri at dalangin.

Sa paglisan mo, sana’y isama sa babaunin Ang lahat ng alaala ng pahayagan natin Na naging sentro ng pamumuhay natin Tandaan mo sana, hahanapin ka namin. Saan man ka man dalhin ng iyong mga paa Sa bawat panalangin ika’y aming isasama Baka minsan tayo pa rin ay magkikita Kaya ang paalam ay isasantabi muna.

Di mawawala ang iba ay malungkot Lalo na kung paligid sa yelo'y nababalot Lamig na paghahanap ang dulot Ngunit ang makausap sila ay siyang sagot. Maligayang pasko po mga kababayan Kaligayahan ninyo ay aking kahilingan Tunay na pagmamahal inyong matagpuan Kagaya ni Hesus na ating sandalan. At para sa darating na bagong taon Sana'y magpakatatag sa bawat hamon Panibagong pag-asa sa bagong taon At huwag makakalimot sa ating Panginoon.

Bagong Taon Na Naman Rodney Queman

Bagong taon parang kailan lamang Mabilis na panahon sasapit na naman Magkasama muli pamilya at kaibigan Minsan lang na pagkakataon ito maranasan.

Pasko ay pagsilang ng tagapagligtas Sanggol na dakila hanggang sa walang wakas Tayo'y manalangin kay Hesus at ibigkas Ang taos pusong handog sa kanyang pagbasbas.

Sa bagong taon may lungkot at saya Ibang kapwa natin may hirap at dusa Nasa malayong lugar at ibayong bansa Tanging hiling makapiling at makasama.

Tanging hiling ko ngayong kapaskuhan Maging maayos ang ekonomiya ng bayan Upang OFW ay hindi mahirapan Sa mga problemang kanyang nararanasan.

Bagong taon ay bagong buhay din New Year's resolution gawin na natin Samahan ng dasal at taimtin na panalangin Na sana’y matupad na at ang iba'y babaguhin.

Ang kanyang pag-ibig na kaloob satin Tunay na dakila hindi kayang burahin Bilang pagpupugay utos Niya ay sundin Pag-ibig sa kapwa palaging isipin.

Bawat pamilya sama-samang sinasalubong Paputok at lusis makikita sa bagong taon Sa media noche lahat nagtipon tipon Bihirang mangyari sa ganitong okasyon.

Kahit hindi pasko tayo ay magbigayan Upang mamayani ang pagmamahalan Kahit hindi pasko laging magdamayan Nang maging payapa ang sandaigdigan.

Ang bagong taon ay bagong pag-asa Pagmamahal sa kapwa ang siyang manguna Pagbibigayan at pagpapakumbaba sa sinisinta Upang buhay at pangarap puno at masagana.

www.sulyapinoy.org

SULYAPINOY DECEMBER 2008

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FUN & LEARN / ANNOUNCEMENTS

By: Sofonias ‘Chabok’ Paragsa

1

Answer to Volume 2, Issue 1

2

3 4

9

5

8

교 도 9 판 소 결 12 사 7

10 11 12

DOWN

ACROSS 1) next year 2) waist 4) diversification 7) period of production 9) Korean history 11) high altitude 12) expert, doctor

대 권 2 3 열 학 다 5 4 생 소 리 6 열 나 8 대 근 무 공 10 리 11 그 럼 전 1

6 7

By: Dondave Jabay

1) 3) 5) 6) 7) 8) 9)

come down, get off conversation lawyer, attorney umbrella fish soup period, term climax, at the full

Instructions: 1) Fill the white squares with numbers 1 to 9 so that they add up to the sums shown in highlighted squares (gray color). 2) A gray color square will show one or two numbers separated by a diagonal line. 3) A number that is above the diagonal line is the sum of the row of white squares to its right. 4) A number that is below the diagonal line is the sum of the column of white squares beneath it.

Two important rules: 1) There are no zeroes. 2) Do not put the same number in each sum of the row of white squares to its right or column beneath it.

The most exciting part!!! The first person to answer the puzzle correctly will be given a public recognition through SULYAPINOY newsletter and website. How to report your answer? Please call 010-9294-4365 or email @ [email protected]

Answer Here

10) accidental death

by Alden Balgos

Answer to Vol. 2 ~ Issue 1

CONGRATULATIONS TO… (All winners who got the perfect answers) 1st: Mr. Arlene Malonzo - Kangyeoksi Seo Gu Bullo dong 490 Beonji 1 ho, Incheon, South Korea 2nd: Michael Balba - Baran Community Wasung-si, Gyeonggido, South Korea 3rd: Billy Vela - Ansan Filipino Community, Ansan City

03 - Eduardo Teodoro III Bernardo Bautista 04 - Cristina Pugay Rodrigo dela Cruz 05 - Noel Galang 06 - Dierde Empeso Johnny Quidilig 07 - Allan Cariño 10 - Shella Balatero

6 SULYAPINOY DECEMBER 2008

08 - Edwin Pepito Geraldine Dizon 12 - Helen Ordonez Michael Trumata 16 - Melvin Fonseca 17 - Jemma Caiteno 20 - Norman Matudan 26 - Miguel Bucao 31 - Rowena Manaig

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NEWS / SPONSORS 2nd Leaders Forum role in helping OFWs and their families back home deal with the current global slowdown,” he added. He explained the Philippine stand to the employers plan to abolish the free accommodation and food benefits currently enjoyed by most of the EPS workers. “In our meeting together with other labor representatives of EPS sending countries, we agreed to raise this issue to our counterparts from the Korea Ministry of Labor (MOL),” Labatt Cruz said. More so, he talked about the status of the pending renegotiation on EPS-MOU which was supposedly finalized last Oct. 20. “In order to prevent the said abolition of free accommodation and food benefits, the DOLE negotiating team with the support of Secretary Marianito Roque has included a stipulation on benefits of workers to such basic needs in the Standard Labor Contract (SLC). Negotiation conference with our counterparts from the Korea MOL is scheduled on Jan. 12 to 13 next year in Manila,” he added. Labatt Cruz also gave the updates on RP-ROK Social Security Agreement. He said that the agreement is still pending with the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations and there is no schedule yet of any public hearing for the provisions of the agreement. “According to our source from the office of the Department of Affairs in Philippines, there are 16 treaties pending for senate hearing and approval and the RPROK Social Security Agreement ranked sixteenth. In addition, we have also requested representatives from the SSS to come to Korea and personally answer all your questions and concerns on the agreement. We hope that they can come and participate to

our next leaders’ forum,” he elaborated. Also, Labatt Cruz shared some good news like the minimum wage increase to be up by 6.3% from the current wage effective January next year, realization of the suggested issuance of Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) to be done in the Philippine Embassy, Employment Referral System for returning or displaced OFWs in South Korea which may provide an immediate opportunity to get employed with Korean employers who have businesses in the Philippines, and the proposed new bill extending the EPS length of sojourn from 3 to 5 years pending approval by the National Assembly which is also expected to be implemented next year. Leaders and representatives from various Filipino communities (Filcom) such as Filipino EPS Workers Association (FEWA), SULYAPINOY, Hyehwadong Filipino Catholic Community (HFCC), Ansan Filipino Community (AFC), Human Rights Welfare Organization Filipino Community (HRWOFC), Pinoy Iskolar sa Korea (PIKO), Samahang ILOKANO, Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea (PROK), PHILWAK (FFWPU), Bride of Jesus Christ (BOJC), Cordillera Brotherhood Organization (CBO), Philippine Migrant Association in Korea (PMWAK), Awale Filipino Community (AFC), FILSDAK, PWA, INCHON-FAN, KASAMMAKO, AFA, Yesan Family Organization, Iglesia ni Cristo, Filipino Korean Spouses Association (FKSA), WU, and TELE INFO participated the forum. However, Pastor Frank Hernando, an Ecumenical Co-worker of Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea (PROK) linked the issue on the EPS-MOU to the ongoing massive crackdown of undocumented workers in Korea. “In most cases, EPS workers

have become undocumented worker for having no choice. It is a clear manifestation that problems in the Korean labor system particularly in the EPS exist. I hope this problem will be averted by the EPS-MOU,” he said. “The Philippine government should provide concrete action against this massive crackdown. It is a clear violation of the migrants’ right. They should negotiate the Korean government that the issue on undocumented workers is not only an immigration issue but more on the labor aspect,” he continued. HFCC volunteer Jimmy Villaflor also asked Labatt Cruz if the pending EPS-MOU is affecting the quota for Filipino EPS applicants to be hired. “The pending EPS-MOU does not affect the EPS quota to be hired from the Philippines. In fact, according to the Korea Human Resource Department (HRD), the number of workers from the Philippines will increase,” Labatt Cruz explained. On the other hand, SULYAPINOY clarified the gasoline tax refund in response to the question raised by Moreno de Isla, an officer of HRWOFC. “The gasoline tax refund is actually a Korean government subsidy including all foreign workers who have paid their income tax thru their employers in the year 2007 and with a gross income of less than 36 million won. And since the official deadline of filing was on Oct. 31, we ask POLO to request the NTS for filing extension as many of our kababayans have not received yet their tax refund due to lack of awareness of their respective employers,” SULYAP’ suggested. Also, updates on RP-ROK 60th Anniversary of Friendship Celebration, the ongoing Overseas Absentee Registration for 2010 Absentee Voting, and the ongoing Financial Education Program and Business Opportunities in the Philippines were discussed.

세일 여행사 ( 주 ) Seowon Bldg., 10th Floor 91-1, Kyeongwon-dong Chongro-gu Seoul

Fax #: 723-5781 or 724-0636

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INCHEON - MANILA - INCHEON ROUTE INCHEON - CEBU - INCHEON ROUTE PUSAN - MANILA - PUSAN ROUTE We may deliver your ticket thru mail. Please send your payment through our bank account… #032-01-163167 Nonghyup Bank - Seil Tour

We’re We ’re always ready to assist you for your good trip. For more details please contact… MILA MONTERDE at 02-724-0677 or SHIN HWA-YOUNG at 02-724-0664 Other Services Offered: We can book you worldwide www.seiltour.co.kr / www.itms.co.kr www.sulyapinoy.org

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