OFW-KOREA-2006-001
Volume 2
News: MSP Brothers Bid Goodbye...
2
News: KIC Launches “Barya Mo, Tulong Mo...
2
Editorial: The Forgotten Obligation
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Feature: A Special Kim by Regina P. Arquiza
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Opinion: Equal Footing by Prof. Nanette C. Bang
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Literary: Poems and Essay about Lenten Season
5
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Issue 5
March 2009
by Dondave Jabay
S
eoul – In its effort to promote effective financial education as part of its ongoing reintegration program to all OFWs in Korea, the Philippine Embassy in Seoul led by His Excellency Ambassador Luis T. Cruz launched another level of financial literacy training entitled: The Fundamentals of Financial and Business Management (FFBM) last March 21 at the embassy building in Itaewon. In his opening remarks, Ambassador Cruz thanked the participants for responding to the invitation and emphasized the importance of the seminar-workshop. “This is the start of our second level campaign on financial literacy. Considering the current global economic crisis, we believe this seminar is suitable to the current global economic crisis,” he said. Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo, who manages monetary policy and operations as well as the regional monetary affairs, currency management and international operations of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) graced the first day of the scheduled four-day seminarworkshop series. He talked about the Financial Learning Campaign of BSP and also discussed the importance of remittance, significance of financial (turn to page 2)
Photo by Dondave Jabay Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (left) who talked about Financial Learning Campaign of BSP receives a Plaque of Appreciation from His Excellency Ambassador Luis T. Cruz during the first day of “The Fundamentals of Financial and Business Management (FFBM) workshop-seminar held at the Philippine Embassy building in Itaewon.
by Dondave Jabay at Tongsong Auditorium in Hyehwadong, Seoul. Ambassador Cruz told SULYAPINOY that there are two premiere showings to be held in Korea. The first premiere is open to public and will be part of the International Migrants Festival celebration to be sponsored by the Archdiocese of Seoul which is also to be held on the same date and venue. “Since the first premiere showing is part of the migrant workers celebration, it is expected that the audience are not only Filipinos but other nationalities as well,” he said. There will be mass at 11:00 AM in the same venue, to be followed by food festival and then the free film showing is expected to start at 2:00 PM. The second premiere will be held on April 14 at Moon Hall National Theater of Korea in Namsan which is intended generally for diplomatic community and Korean government officials.
P
hilippine Embassy, Seoul – In commemoration of the 60th Anniversary of the Philippine-Korea Bilateral Relations, the Philippine Embassy in Seoul headed by Ambassador Luis T. Cruz will show a free premiere of the film “The Forgotten War” on April 12, Easter Sunday
"The Forgotten War", starred by Baron Geisler and Yul Servo, is a 90-minute feature that tackles the exploits of the Filipino soldiers who were deployed and participated in the Korean War from 1950-1953 under the auspices of the United Nations Command.
by Philippine Embassy
S
eoul, March 3, 2009 – Philippine Ambassador to Seoul Luis T. Cruz formally launched the 60th Anniversary of Philippines-Korea relations today with a reception at the Westin Chosun Hotel for approximately 100 representatives from the Korean print, broadcast and internet media.
“Milestones like today’s 60th Anniversary offer an occasion for us to revisit our past, take stock of our accomplishments and define a clearer path for our future,” said Amb. Cruz. “Sixty years is an important milestone. As the fifth country to extend diplomatic recognition to South Korea and the third country to send ground combat troops to South Korea during the Korean War, the Philippines is proud to have South Korea as one of its most enduring and closest partners,” he added. (turn to page 2)
by Dondave Jabay
G
yeonggi-do, Korea – In a phone interview last March 20, the Korea Ministry of Labor (MOL) told SULYAPINOY that the Korean government through the foreign workforce policy committee, has decided to cut its 2009 quota for foreign workers effective March 19. This move aims to stabilize the increasing trend of local unemployment and encourage companies to hire legal foreign workers who are already in Korea, amid the worsening domestic employment market.
MOL said, a total of 34,000 foreign workers can be deployed to Korea until February next year, which is only one-third to last year’s quota of 100,000. The total quota will be halved between H-2 and E-9 working visas at 17,000 for each category.
Photo in courtesy of the Phil. Embassy
H-2 is a working-visitor visa issued to ethnic Koreans with foreign nationalities living in China, Russia and other neighboring countries while (turn to page 2)
Amb. Luis T. Cruz launches the celebrations for the 60th Anniversary of Philippines-Korea relations with representatives from the Korean government and media at the Westin Chosun on March 3, 2009.
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NEWS Phil. Embassy Launches… by Amie Sison Community (HFCC) last March 8 at St. Benedict Parish Church after 2-years of their missionary service in Korea as part of their vocational trainings. They delivered their words of gratitude to the Sambayanan with a wonderful song and heartwarming speeches.
Photo by Amie Sison Br. Moises Robert T. Olavides, MSP (left) and Br. Fredy C. Permentilla, MSP (right) pose with Fr. Alvin B. Parantar, MSP after receiving plaque of appreciation from HFCC.
H
yehwadong Seoul – Br. Moises Robert T. Olavides, MSP and Br. Fredy C. Permentilla, MSP bid farewell to Hyehwadong Filipino Catholic
The two brothers served the Filipino Community through spiritual reflection of Migrant Workers and Filipina married to Korean national. They also provided unconditional support to Fr. Alvin Parantar, MSP in his first two years assignment as chaplain of HFCC. Their active participation to the community truly appreciated by some church volunteers and churchgoers of HFCC. Br. Moises and Br. Fredy left for Philippines last March 14.
by Anthony Carl Dacones - Kasan Correspondent asan, Pocheon City – The Kasan International Community (KIC) launched a coin collection fund raising dubbed as "Barya mo, Tulong mo sa Kapwa mo" last March 8 at St. Thomas Parish, Kasan, Pocheon City. The initiative was pursued to raise funds for the outreach program of the community in line with its vision to help distressed migrant workers and the underprivileged people in the Philippines.
K
The objectives of the outreach program is to provide medical and financial assistance, support repatriation cost of deported Filipino migrant workers, and help victims of natural calamities in the Philippines. More so, KIC planned more fund raising activities like “Concert for a Cause” to be held on June this year and other events to raise more funds to strengthen its crusade in helping more people in need throughout the years.
Photo by Ainnie Medrano (Holding the “piggy bank”) Fr. Liam O’Keffe, Chaplain of St. Thomas Parish flanked by Sr. Maria, SjBP Superior and Sr. Juliana Kim, SjBP, in charge of Kasan Migrant Workers Center (right) pose with volunteers during the launching of "Barya mo, Tulong mo sa Kapwa mo" KIC fund raising project.
KIC coordinators Sr. Luz Olalia, SjBP and Sr. Julia Kim SjBP, thanked sponsors and volunteers for their continuous and unconditional support to the community. “Despite the lack of funds in our community, it has never been a hindrance in showing our love to others,” the SjBP sisters said. and volunteers,” the SjBP sisters said.
On the other hand, Elmer Ramirez, a KIC volunteer, commended the "Barya mo, Tulong mo sa Kapwa mo" initiative. “It is a very good project because it collects coins and donate them for a good cause, instead of throwing or keeping them on the corner,” he said.
60th Anniversary of RP-ROK…
“Our two governments will spare no effort in lifting this relationship on a higher plain,” he added.
Amb. Cruz opened the ceremony with the announcement by Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo designating March 3, 2009 as “Philippines-Korea Friendship Day” and the year 2009 as “Philippines-Korea Friendship Year.”
Other major activities of the Philippine Embassy in South Korea this year include the “One Philippines” exhibit at the plaza in front of the Seoul City Hall on 29 -30 May 2009; the launching of “The Forgotten War” at the National Theater of Korea on 14 April 2009; and the unveiling of the Philippine marker at the UN Memorial Cemetery in Korea (UNMCK) in Busan on 28 May 2009.
The designations aim to raise awareness about the common history, culture and future shared by the two countries. Amb. Cruz launched the 60th Anniversary with representatives from the Korean Government, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Korea Local Authorities Foundation for International Relations, and the Korea Post. The Korea Post launched the Philippines-Korea Commemorative Stamps during the same event, featuring Korea’s “Sonori in Hangawi” and the Philippine “Panagbenga Flower Festival.” Meanwhile, Director-General Choi Jong-moon of the South Asia and Pacific Affairs Bureau of the MOFAT said that “the relationship between Korea and the Philippines, grounded on a firm foundation forged through 60 years of cooperation, will continue to develop in the future.”
The “One Philippines” exhibit will showcase the history, culture, tradition, and business environment of the Philippines. The two-day event will feature a number of cultural performances, including professional performers from the Philippines and lively street dances. "The Forgotten War" is a 90-minute feature that tackles the exploits of the Filipino soldiers who participated in the Korean War from 1950-1953 under the auspices of the United Nations Command. The marker, meanwhile, will pay tribute to the more than 7,000 Filipino soldiers who stood side by side with their South Korean brethren during the Korean War in the 1950s. The Philippine Embassy will also take part in several cultural activities throughout the year.
2 SULYAPINOY MARCH 2009 www.sulyapinoy.org
planning, types of financial instruments, microfinance and credit surety fund program. In his introductory talk, Mr. Guinigundo emphasized the importance of knowing not only on how to save but more importantly on how to start and manage a business in the Philippines. “As you may already know, our country has an external debt of $54-billion. Considering this situation, it is vital for us to have a desire to become financially independent,” he said. “And for all our OFWs, financial independence is a key to a happy reunion with your respective families in the Philippines,” Mr. Guinigundo added. Counselor Edgardo Garcia, MBA, a UP College of Business Administration graduate, on the other hand discussed the Basics of Entrepreneurship and Business Planning (Feasibility Study) during the second day of the seminar last March 29. In his lecture, Counselor Garcia emphasized the participants the basic process flow in starting a small enterprise as well as on how to conduct a feasibility study before starting a good business. More so, topics on Introduction to Marketing and Advertising, and Introduction to Bookkeeping will complete the seminar-workshop series syllabus to be discussed by Vice Consul Arnel G. Talisayon, also a UP College of Business Administration graduate on April 5. Labor Attaché Delmer Cruz in his invitation email to the Filcom representatives encouraged everyone to attend the said seminar. “We strongly encourage you and your members to avail of this opportunity to acquire additional knowledge and skills to help you and your family better prepare for the future, especially your life after being an OFW,” he said. LabAtt Cruz also said that participants with complete attendance will be given a “certificate of completion” signed by the Ambassador.
Korea to Cut Foreign… E-9 is a working visa under the Employment Permit System (EPS). Currently, there are 15 sending countries under EPS who have an ongoing Memorandum of Agreement (MOU) between Korea. These are Philippines, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, China, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Kyrgyzstan, and East Timor. More so, the EPS quota will also be divided according to industry - the manufacturing accounts for 13,000; construction 2,000; service 100; agricultural and livestock 1,000; and fishery 900. MOL further said it hasn’t finalized the quota per sending countries yet but affirmed that the competition among foreigners to win a working opportunity here is expected to become much fiercer than before. It also clarified that the new quota will not affect foreign workers who will be reemployed by their current employers after their sojourn period expires. MOL also disclosed that the government’s overall labor policy for this year is to downsize the number of new foreign workers and the drastic quota cut for H-2 and E-9 visas was in line to this policy. MOL also elaborated that during March to August, when employment is expected to deteriorate due to economic recession, one-third of the planned quota will be brought in and from September to February next year, the rest two-thirds will be implemented. It also added that if the economic recovery will gain speed in the second half, additional quota introduction may be reviewed. In December, it was reported that the ministry stopped issuing visas as the annual quota for the period March 2008 to February 2009 was reached earlier than expected.
EDITORIAL
A
midst the ongoing world economic crisis that are occurring which resulted to increasing job displacements abroad, the Philippine government laid its plans on how to give assistance on Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) that are and will be affected by massive layoffs in every part of the globe including workers in South Korea.
Trainings and seminar-workshops on financial education is one of the programs it implemented as part of the government’s reintegration programs for OFWs returning to the Philippines. This program is suitable since it promotes entrepreneurship and financial literacy, business management, skills training among others, which is good in preparing for the OFWs’ future with their family back home. The program also focuses on micro-enterprise development in which the government can provide a non-collateralized loan for up to 50,000 pesos with only 5% annual interest rate. Although it might be helpful to those who are returning to the Philippines, it would not be enough to help displaced OFWs especially the case here in South Korea. Unlike in other countries such as Taiwan among others, where an OFW must return to the Philippines after being laid off, OFWs that are displaced in Korea still have two months luck to look for another company before they will be mandatory deported back to the Philippines. While most of them are hopeful to look for a new employer, it is within these two months duration that they need assistance the most. It is because after leaving their previous company, they also have to leave their shelter that the previous company has provided them. Considering that the Migrante International data
showed that there are 74 OFWs retrenched since October 2008 from 12 companies in South Korea, it is a record that is expected to rise due to the worsening condition of the economy. Such condition will definitely lead to more displaced workers who will need food and accommodation assistance. Even if there are some organizations and institutions in Korea that provide food and temporary shelter for the displaced and distressed workers, it is one of the responsibilities of the Philippine government particularly its representatives here in Korea to ensure the welfare of the OFWs residing in Korea.
EDITORIAL STAFF Editor-in-Chief: Edward A. Castro Opinion Editor: Rebenson B. Recaña Literary Editor: Amie Sison Photojournalist: Felix S. Ferrer
Since this year marks the 60th anniversary of Philippines and South Korea relations, it would be best to use this celebration not only to show the strong alliance between the two countries or to show our cultures, but also to make sure that the rights and wellbeing of OFWs are protected. It is commendable to acknowledge the strong alliance between the Philippines and South Korea due to the fact that a lot of Filipino soldiers sacrificed their lives to help South Korea during the Korean War, but the welfare of Filipino workers whom we considered modern heroes of our own time and continuously fighting the war against poverty must not be forgotten.
BOARD OF PUBLICATION
Managing Editor: Alden C. Balgos News Editor: Edward A. Castro Cartoonist: Alden C. Balgos Layout Artist: Dondave Jabay
Circulation Managers: Teofilo C. Camo; Alwyin A. Casiño; Marcelino M. Serdeña III Community Correspondents: Billy Vela (Ansan); Anthony Carl Dacones (Kasan) Valentino de Guzman (Gimhae, Busan); Maria Elena Famor (Ulsan) Contributors: Prof. Nanette Cruz Bang; Joan C. Romero; Ehd Villarta Jr. Adviser: Ma. Regina P. Arquiza Editorial Consultant: Elizer M. Peñaranda
Chairman: Rebenson B. Recaña
Vice Chairman: Dondave Jabay
Secretary: Rodney Queman 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: Annabelle Lopez Training & Workshop: Ehd G. Villarta Jr. Board Consultants: Fr. Alvin B. Parantar, MSP; Prof. Emely Dicolen-Abagat, Ph.D. FEWA President: Sofonias N. Paragsa
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SULYAPINOY MARCH 2009
3
FEATURE / OPINION by Regina P. Arquiza there is always a brighter future ahead. “Indeed, I should comfort myself that there is always a difficulty to hinder our progress and if we are caught in moments of frustrations, we must count ourselves from despair. As long as we are alive, we should never lose hope, because there is always a tomorrow waiting,” Kim said.
Fe Kim, representing FKSA receives a Presidential Citation in the category of "Banaag Award" personally presented by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo at the Malacañang Palace for its effort in ensuring the safety of Filipinas married to Korean nationals and upholding their rights in their foreign adoptive country.
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ith the increasing number of mixed marriages and children in Korea, the country’s description of being a nation unified by one bloodline is said to be changing to a multiethnic and multicultural society. Korea is in the process of a big societal change. The government is in the course of reviewing policies and laws for immigrants married to Koreans. Along with the process, problems such as granting of citizenship or residency, domestic violence, discrimination, cultural differences and so on are being studied by the government. Among those foreign immigrants having Kim as their last name includes one Filipina married to a Korean national named Fe who has been here for thirteen years and indeed a Philippine pride. Being a wife, a women’s rights advocate, a cancer survivor, a believer, a fighter, and a great leader, Fe Gimarino Kim inspires a lot of Filipinos especially those who are married to Koreans. And as the world celebrates the International Women’s Month in March to honor women’s social, economic and political achievements worldwide, Kim is one of those who deserve all accolades as she continuously advocates women’s rights.
A Great Leader Kim is the founder of the Filipino Korean Spouses Association (FKSA), a group of Filipino and Korean couples who are in pursuit of peace and unity in their marriage. Their organization believes that despite the existence of trials and tribulations, creating a harmonious and affectionate partnership, promotion of growth and development of couples, parental responsibility and understanding cross-cultural differences are essential to be successful in married life. FKSA has been serving a lot of Filipinas through the assistance they give in molding their children to become valuable citizens, help victims of domestic violence, and helping one another in terms of generating jobs and employment opportunities necessary in the enhancement of the quality of life they have.
With this attitude, she was able to survive with two kinds of cancer, Leukemia and Cervical. “After surviving from two kinds of cancer (Leukemia and Cervical), I promised to God that I would serve Him according to His will. I believe God extended my life with special purpose and using me as one of His instruments and all of my constructive desires are created through the power of God,” she added. A Women’s Rights Advocate Complaints from Filipinas who are victims of domestic violence against their respective husbands motivated her to establish FKSA. She felt the need of creating an organization that could help less fortunate women without depending from Overseas Filipino Workers’ groups in Incheon. In June 2001, FKSA was founded with the help of her four friends who are also married to Koreans. According to her, they filed a petition asking the Republic of Korea’s Department of Justice through the help of the Philippine Ambassador to Korea to grant foreign women married to Koreans who are victims of domestic violence to become permanent residents. As long as these women can provide evidences that they are victims of domestic violence, they’d be able to avail the permanent residency status. “Luckily, it was approved and became a law in the Republic of Korea,” Kim said. There was no point in her life that she ever thought of giving up her advocacy. “I believe that there is an equal opportunity between men and women because we are the same in the eyes of God,” she added. An Exquisite Woman Fe Kim is truly an exquisite woman and indeed a special Kim. She has a big heart for those people in need making FKSA be recognized in the 2008 Presidential Award for being an outstanding organization promoting the welfare of Filipinos. Her leadership and dedication was recognized not only by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, but by Filipinos in different parts of the world. Her words are truly inspiring. “If you are married to Korean be polite and/or courteous to the family of your husband. This is one of the secret weapons to win their heart and they will protect you just in case your husband giving you a hard time. As far as my observation is concerned, the parents and older brothers/ sisters shall have the power to say something that they must follow it and this is part of their culture and tradition,” said Kim.
A Loving Wife It is never easy for Filipinas to be married with Koreans due to cultural differences. Understanding each other in terms of language and customs are difficult giving them grave challenges to keep their marriage in a harmonious state. However, in spite of intricacies, Kim is happily married to Sung Jin Kim. “My family is my inspiration most especially my husband that he is always helping me and supporting me morally and spiritually,” Kim said. A Believer and Fighter Kim doesn’t know the word quit! She has so much optimism that shows her innate nature of being a believer and a strong fighter. Life is never easy, but she is the type of person who manages to have a positive outlook no matter how serious the situation is. She believes that
4 SULYAPINOY MARCH 2009
Equal Footing by Prof. Nanette Cruz Bang Hankuk University of Foreign Studies
I
reiterate my stand on the previous interviews to me regarding my suggestion to the Korean government to create an agency or action group that will conduct an educational seminar to Korean men marrying foreigners. The suggested seminar will be the culture and family relationship of the respective country of the foreigner they will marry. Inherent gladness was felt, when South Korean president, Lee Myung-bak announced his plan to educate Korean men on the culture of the foreign bride before they will tie the knot. The present administration is looking to the repercussion of the persistent surge of the interracial marriages that contribute to multicultural society in Korea. It is a fact, that the influx of Korean men to diversified countries like Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia and other Southeast Asian countries are amazing through intermediaries like brokers or agencies. In a very short period of time of knowing each other, the two parties never had a chance to know each other personally thus, the information and education in their respective culture and character are at risk. Realistically, like the Philippines, a Filipina marrying a Korean attends a CFO (Counseling for Filipina Overseas) seminar. The objective is to educate them on Korean language and culture before coming here. How about Korean men marrying a Filipina? Equal information on personal value orientations and family culture are highly requested to lessen the problems on human rights and domestic violence. Korean government’s interracial marriage and multicultural family law are really in time. With the strict implementation of these laws, foreign wives’ “false hopes and false dreams” of marrying a foreigner only for economic reason will be eradicated. For my curiosity, why do male Koreans mostly from the provinces flock to other countries to marry foreigners? Is it because of the ratio of Korean male to female is higher than the latter now a days? Is it the result of choosing baby boys from the previous years rather than girls? Is it too expensive for the Korean men to wed Korean bride? As an additional analysis, if Korean’s family culture is patriarchal, where husbands are the “kings” and decision makers, what if his foreign wife comes from an equal gender family culture? There’s no doubt, perplexities and intricacies in relationship will emanate.
Fe Kim, founder of the Filipino Korean Spouses Association (FKSA), poses while holding FKSA’s Banaag Award.
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Finally, Korean government has a vital role not only to have the planned theoretical framework but the strict implementation of the interracial marriage law.
LITERARY Is ang S akong D olya r
Paid for Debt
ni Joan C. Romero
by Ehd Villarta Jr.
(This poem is lovingly dedicated to my one and only "Lolo Esiong")
Lord, here I am knelt down and pray With endless thoughts, a words to say For the son of man and the son of God Thank you for showing us, the true meaning of love.
May isang tao akong hindi makakalimutan Pagkukulang ng aking ama’y kanyang pinunan Siya ang naging sandalan ng aking kabataan Kabaitan niya’y sadyang ‘di matatawaran.
From that scene in the garden of Gethsemane For how man betrayed you, in replace of money With all insulting words, pain and Your agony To forgive us oh Lord, you take that way.
Damit pamasko, baon at gamit sa paaralan Mga laruan at pagkain sa hapag-kainan Ay walang sawa niyang tinutugunan Upang mga apo niya ay ‘di mapabayaan.
Soldier mocked You, taking Your robe Crowned on Your head, a twist of thorns And Your sweat became drops of blood For every great drops, running to the ground.
Nitong bagong taon lang namin natuklasan Siya na pala’y may malubhang karamdaman Nais ko sanang umuwi upang siya’y pagsilbihan Ngunit ‘di nagtagal ay sumuko na sa laban.
You felt helpless, people looking around The world is turning, as You fall to the ground In a distance of love, under the weight of the cross For every step You take the road, our dear Jesus.
Ang mawalan ng hindi man lang masilayan Ang pinakamahirap sa pangingibang bayan Ngunit kailangan nating tanggapin ang katotohanan Na sa buhay ay Siya lang ang may karapatan.
Long thick nail pressed it on Your open palm The hammer droves it, and Your feeble groans The blood gushed forth, sprinkled to the archer's arm Hanging on the cross, on Your wound; Your body rest upon.
Pasko ng pagkabuhay noon, akin pang natatandaan Huling biro’t habilin nya bago lumipad ang aking sinasakyan “Apo, sa iyong pagbalik ako’y iyong pasalubungan “Isang sakong dolyar” ang iuwi mo sa aking kanlungan”.
And the hailed one became the decried one And having said this, he breathed his last "Father, into thy hands I commit my spirit" It is finished, paid in full; over our sin, our debt!
Liham ni Amie Sison
I
tago niyo na lamang ako sa pangalang Paolo. Dalawang taon na ako dito sa Korea. Medyo matagal na rin pero hindi ko pa rin masabi na kaya ko ng mag-isa. Isa lamang ako sa mga Pilipino na nakikipagsapalaran dito para sa kinabukasan ng ating pamilya. Napilitang magtrabaho dahil sa hirap ng buhay ng ating bansa. Napakalungkot mag-isa. Napansin ko na isa rin ako sa mga Pilipino na nag sisimba dito sa Hyehwa. Pag sisimba na hindi ko naman madalas na ginawa sa Pilipinas maliban na lamang kung makikipag libing. Pinagmamasdan ko ang mga lalake na astig na nanalangin, iniisip ko kung pareho ba kami ng istorya sa buhay.
Naging magulo ang pananampalataya ko sa buong buhay ko. Halos hindi ko na Siya kilala. Hindi ko maisaulo ang Ama Namin at lalo na ang pag darasal ng rosaryo. At sa tanging pagtanda lamang ng krus ang maipagmamalaki ko bilang isang Katoliko. Sa halip na kilalanin ko siya at maiparamdam ko sa kanya ang pagmamahal ko sa kanya ay kasalungat pa doon ang aking ginawa. Pinag aralan ko ang iba’t-ibang relihiyon. Ang Saksi ni Jehova, Iglesia ni Kristo at maliliit na Christian Community ang binigyan ko ng halaga. Dumalo rin ako sa kanilang mga okasyon at masasabi ko na binigyan ko ito ng dedikasyon at panahon. Tumagal ito ng mga dalawang buwan at lumilipat na ako sa ibang relihiyon. Tila kay lamig at mapurok ang aking pananampalataya. Ngunit hindi ko man lamang naisip na sana ay bigyan ko ng magandang kahulugan ang aking sarili bilang isang Katoliko. Hindi Niya ako binigyan ng mabibigat na problema o bigyan ako ng pagkakataon upang bumalik sa kanya. Kaya patuloy pa rin ang panlalamig ko sa kanya. Hanggang sa hindi ko na namalayan na lalayo na ako sa aking pamilya. Mapadpad dito sa Korea at maghanap-buhay. Gaya nga ng nasabi ko, naging mahirap lalo sa akin ang pag tatrabaho dito dahil sa pangungulila sa kanila. Nagkaroon ako ng panahon na maipagmamalaki ko sa ngayon. Niyaya ako minsan ng kaibigan ko Hyehwa. Hindi para magsimba kung hindi para makipag inuman sa chicken house. Hanggang sa mapadpad kami sa simbahan. Hindi ko alam kung anung nangyari sa akin at parang gumaan ang aking pakiramdam. Nakapag nilay ako sa homily. At napagsisihan ang mga kasalanan ko sa Kanya. Isang araw na pagkilala ko sa kanya. Buong pagkatao ko ang nabago. Binigyan Niya ako ng pagkakataon na makilala siya na hindi niya ako bigyan ng pagsubok. At hindi pa huli ang lahat. Doon ko nalaman ng dilim ng aking pananampalataya. Na dati ay daig pa ako ng mga batang musmos na marunong manalangin. Sa kasalanan ko sa Kanya parang gusto kong iaalay ang aking buhay at paglingkura Siya. Hindi ko man lamang naisip na magkakaroon pa ng kaliwanagan ang aking pananampalataya. Kung saan pa napahiwalay ako sa aking pamilya kung kalian pa hindi nila marinig na marunong na akong magdasal. Darating ang araw na uuwi ako sa Pilipinas. Sa araw na iyon hindi lamang perang naipon, mga kaalaman at magagandang ala-ala ang madadala ko kung hindi ang pananampalataya tumibay sa pamamagitan ng isang paanyaya. Ang kwento ay nagmula sa malawak na imahinasyon ng may akda. Ngayong Semana Santa, bigyan sana ng panahon kausapin Siya. Magpasalamat sa mga biyayang ipinagkakaloob at humingi ng tulong sa mga problemang lumulunod sa ating pamumuhay. Napakalaking bagay ang bigyan Siya ng papuri. Ngayon ay panahon upang magnilay at sana ang ating pananampalataya ay lalo pang tumibay.
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SULYAPINOY MARCH 2009
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FUN & LEARN / ANNOUNCEMENTS ANNOUNCEMENT
EASTER MASS FOR THE MIGRANTS Date: April 11, 2009 (7:00PM ~ 10:00PM) : 2009 4 11 PM 7-10 Place: Jeong-dong Franciscan Education Center :
날짜 년 월 일 시 장소 정동 프란치스코회관
Invited Participants: Immigrants (OFWs, Multicultural Families, Miriam Center Teachers & Students) : ( , , )
대상 이주민 필리핀이주노동자 다문화가정 미리암센터 한국어학교 학생 Contact: Miriam Center Korean Language School @ (02) 747-2086 : (02) 747-2086
문의 미리암센터 한국어학교
Please refer below for sketch of the location... ...
지도는 첨부파일로 보내니 참조하세요
Transportation Guide:
Map
by: Dondave Jabay
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.
<SUBWAY>
The most exciting part!!!
→ Line 1 & 2 — 1,12 Sicheongyeok Exit (Deoksugung Direction) with a 10 minutes walk. → Line 5 — Exit 5 Seodaemunyeok (tends to the direction of the paper) with a 5 minutes walk.
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]
Note: The History Museum is in front of the bus stop → Blue Main Bus: 160, 161, 260, 270, 271, 300, 370, 470, 471, 600, 601, 602, 631, 702, 720 → Green General Bus: 7019,7023
Answer Here
<SEAT BUS> → Red Area Bus: 9701,9705,9709 → General Seat Bus: 1002
by Alden Balgos
Answer to Vol. 2 ~ Issue 4
01 - Miguel M. Baltero Joyce Dela Cruz 05 - Edilberto R. Ejis 06 - Joselito C. Apostol 09 - Percival P. Fajardo 11 - Larry M. Laririt 13 - Elizer M. Peñaranda Gilbert B. Ocaya 12 - Edison D. Cabiles Jr. 14 - Christopher V. Mationg 15 - Michael B. Paelden
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17 - Earl Barredo 25 - Eliseo A. Blas 26 - Alejandro A. Valenzuela Jocelyn N. Padagdag 27 - Rebeck P. Beltran Ma. Theresa D. Noma 29 - Nerissa C. Abiera Sherwin E. Ecita 30 - Fr. Alvin B. Parantar, MSP Eduardo M. Ico Jr.
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DONORS / SPONSORS ANNOUNCEMENT NOTICE OF REGISTRATION AND ELECTION TO ALL FILIPINO CITIZENS The Philippine Embassy is pleased to announce that the registration for overseas absentee voters for President, Vice President, Senators and Party List Representatives for purposes of the May 10, 2010 National Elections will be from February 01, 2009 to August 31, 2009. The voting period will be from April 10, 2010 until 3:00 P.M., Philippine time of May 10, 2010. WHO MAY REGISTER? Filipino citizen who is... ⇒ Intending to vote abroad, not otherwise disqualified by law. ⇒ At least eighteen (18) years of age on the day of the election. Those who are not yet 18 during the period of registration may also register, provided they will be 18 on the day of the election. WHERE TO REGISTER?
Amie Sison ~ 50,000won (monthly starting October 2008) Franklin U. Caturla ~ 20,000 won (March 2009) Anonymous ~ 20,000 won (March 2009) Rupeto M. Areja ~ 5,000 won (March 2009) Helena Ordanza ~ 2,000 won (March 2009) Anonymous ~ 5,000 won (March 2009) “Blessed are those who can give without remembering, and take without forgetting.” CASH DONATIONS CAN BE MADE THRU... Donation Box (can be found at FEWA Office inside WooriBank, Hyehwadong Branch, Seoul) Deposit / Transfer (Account #: 049702 04 058587 / Account Name: Sofonias N. Paragsa / Bank: KB or Kookmin Bank)
세일 여행사 ( 주 ) Seowon Bldg., 10th Floor 91-1, Kyeongwon-dong Chongro-gu Seoul
Fax #: 723-5781 or 724-0636
Philippine Embassy
REQUIREMENTS: ⇒ Valid passport or Travel Document. ⇒ Additional requirements for a dual citizen... - The original or certified true copy of Order of Approval of his application to retain or reacquire his Filipino citizenship; or - Oath of Allegiance issued by Post or Bureau of Immigration. ⇒ Additional requirements for seafarers... - Photocopy of Seaman’s Book or - Any other document that will prove that the applicant is a seafarer. For inquiries and other details, please feel free to email us at [email protected] SCHEDULE OF SERVICES: ⇒ Monday to Friday, regular business hours at the Embassy. ⇒ Every first and third Sunday of the month, 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M., Consular section of the Embassy. ⇒ Every second and fourth Sunday of the month beginning 12 April, 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M., Hyehwadong Catholic Church. ⇒ Mobile and field registrations may be scheduled upon request.
CONGRATULATIONS! Mr. & Ms. SULYAPINOY ChatChat-Box 2008
Seil Tour System offers very reasonable prices which are amazingly cheaper than other agencies you can find for these routes:
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
Theo
&
Angel
Sponsored by... RUDY DELA CRUZ CHAYEN KIM GSM MIDNIGHT NICK Visit: www.sulyapinoy.org www.sulyapinoy.org
SULYAPINOY MARCH 2009
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OUR SPONSOR
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