Sulyap Oct 2008 (final For Printing)

OFW-KOREA-2006-001

Volume 1

Issue 12

News: Top Asian Artists Wow International...

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Editorial: SULYAPINOY: One Voice, One Mission

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Feature: SULYAPINOY Surely Rings A Bell!

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Literary: Poem Writing Contest Winning Entries

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Profile: Gawad Fr. Glenn Awardees...

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Photo Story: SULYAPINOY: “We’ve come this far... 14

October 2008

www.sulyapinoy.org

by Dondave Jabay

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eoul, November 2 — Inspired and in great honor of the living hero priest of Filipino migrant workers in South Korea, SULYAPINOY publication launched the Gawad Fr. Glenn Giovanni Jaron 2008 for Most Outstanding Filipinos and Filipino Communities in South Korea during its 1st anniversary celebration at Columban Mission House.

Fr. Glenn, who was the chaplain of Hyehwadong Filipino Catholic Community (HFCC) for ten years from 1998 to 2007, continuously inspired Filipino groups and communities like FEWA and SULYAPINOY volunteers with his significant services to all Filipino migrant workers in South Korea regardless of their orientation, gender, visa status and beliefs. SULYAPINOY editor-in-chief Elizer Penaranda shared that the much coveted award aimed to pay tribute Filipinos who have significantly rendered exemplary services and helped promote migrants’ wel(turn to page 4) fare, leadership and solidarity,

1st Anniversary Celebration The m e: “ W e ’ ve c o m e t h i s f a r b y f a i th.” Guest of Honor and Speaker: HE Ambassador Luis T. Cruz November 2, 2008 Columban Mission House, Seoul, South Korea

by Edward Castro Miss Congeniality, Miss Onfino, Best in Traditional Costume while Israel received Mr. Darling of the Crowd, Mr. Personality, Best in Talent, and Best in Barong Tagalog awards respectively. Themed “Migranteng Pinoy...Talento at KulPhoto by Edward Castro tura, this year's pageant has promoted the diver(L-R) Kishore Patrimonio and Sheryl de Villa, 2nd Runners Up; May Heducos and Israel Antonio, sity of Filipino culture and G. at Bb. Kalinangang Pilipino 2008; and Jennilyn Danting and Mark Brazas, 1st Runners Up. values as the candidates yehwadong, Oct. 19 — “Maraming katangian highlighted the event with their talent, charm and ang mga Pinoy...at saan mang dako sila ng intelligence. As ambassadors of Filipino culture, mundo mag-tungo ay dala-dala nila ito kalakip ang each candidate showcased flashy and colorful pananalig sa Diyos at lumalaban ng patas,” said May Barong Tagalog and Filipiniana gown as they did Heducos, a native of Bukidnon who was crowned as the catwalk along the promenade center stage. Binibining Kalinangang Pilipino or Ms. Filipino Culture 2008 at Tongsong Auditorium. “During the talent competition, the candidates surprised the judges and the cheering crowd with Together with Israel Antonio, a native of Baguio City, song and dance interpretations, and stirring monowho was crowned as Ginoong Kalinangang Filipino or Mr. Filipino Culture 2008. As spearheaded by the logues, all focused on native and cultural songs Hyehwadong Filipino Catholic Community (HFCC), and dances, history and culture of the Philippines,” May and Israel shared with other seven equally gorsaid the supporter of a candidate. geous and handsome contestants the crown and prestige of being the first Mr. And Ms. Filipino Culture Sheryl de Villa and Kishore Patrimonio, Jenilyn candidates. Danting and Mark Brazas emerged as Binibini at Ginoong Kalinangang Filipino (turn to page 4) Also, May pulled special awards like Miss Internet,

by Elizer Penaranda

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eoul, Oct. 12 — “Fighting!” This has been the landmark announcement from FEWA with president Sofonias Paragsa who has set to present the 5,415 campaigned signatures from various Filipino communities including the full support of the Hyehwadong Filipino Catholic Community (HFCC) chaplain Fr. Alvin Parantar, MSP, to the House of Philippine Senate and other government agencies this month to show their ongoing united opposition to NPS-SSS bilateral agreement on pension funds. SULYAP’ managing editor Dondave Jabay has finalized all the needed information materials including a petition letter to address the (turn to page 2)

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Photo by Felix Ferrer FEWA Officers show united opposition to NPS-SSS bilateral agreement and set to present 5,415 campaigned signatures to the Philippine House of Senate.

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

NEWS FEWA: ‘Fighting’ against massive campaign opposition of all migrant workers in South Korea to the provisions on the bilateral agreement. His initiative of doing confirmations to National Pension Scheme personnel prompted Jabay to bring the details and updates of the issue to the Filipino community. As reported, the procedure in the formulation of the Bilateral Agreement clearly violated the constitutional rights of the workers in terms of information and consultation, removal of the 50% employer’s share in EPS worker’s monthly pension contribution as they will be excluded from NPS coverage, resulting in the loss of workers’ small business opportunities upon return, unconstitutional mandatory membership on SSS, and the vulnerability of our refund to corruption at home have triggered the concerned workers to call for the massive campaign. Also FEWA administrative adviser Rebenson Recana called for unity as the group received invitations among Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) from different provinces and cities including Pusan. In coordination with Andy Palad, an official of Filipino Workers Organization in Korea (FILWORK) in Pusan, FEWA disseminate the needed information and answered a number of queries about the said bilateral agreement to other Filipino communities and leaders like Samahang Barangay in Noksan with officials Emmanuel Uson and Lina Garduna, FILWORK with its founder Kang Bang-su, FASIGKO with president Val de Guzman, Filipino Migrant Workers Association in Pusan (FIMIWAP) with president Myrna Barredo and SAPI NA ‘KO with president Tess Manangan. However, Barredo shared about the provision of some legal assistance in pursuing the current campaign and submitting of the required documents to concerned government offices while De Guzman raised some queries in behalf of some irregular workers who have had contributions under of different names. Also, Palad reassured FEWA to intensify the ongoing campaign against the bilateral agreement thru constant monitoring and coordination with various Filipino communities in Pusan and nearby provinces.

Inspirational Quote “Success is not measured by what you accomplish but by the opposition you have encountered, and the courage with which you have maintained the struggle against overwhelming odds.” - Orison Swett Marden -

by Dondave Jabay

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eoul, Oct. 6 — Top Asian artists from nine Asian countries like TVXQ, Shinee, Girls’ Generation of South Korea; W-inds, Berryz Kobo of Japan; Anson Hu of China; Fahrenheit of Taiwan; Karen Mok of Hongkong; Ho Quynh Huong of Vietnam; Ice of Thailand; and Agnes Monica of Indonesia and Photo by Dondave Jabay Rivermaya of the FEWA group together with other Filipino audience proudly raise the Philippine flaglets in the Philippines wowed the middle of the international crowd as they watch the performance of Rivermaya during the international audience of 5th Asia Song Festival. crowd with a ballad and Tsuchiya, who starred in their performances during the 5th Asia Song Festhe popular Japanese film “Kamikaze Girls,” gave tival at World Cup Stadium. the crowd of her hit song “Rose.” On the other hand, members and officers of FiliMore so, rising pop group Shinee evoked cheers pino EPS Workers Association (FEWA) and SUfrom the crowd, as they performed their hit song, LYAPINOY flocked to the concert venue which “You’re So Pretty.” Shinee and Japanese girl group presented the biggest group among all Filipino Berryz Kobo also received Best New Artist award audience. The Filipino audience altogether waved during the festival. the Philippine flaglets during the performance of Rivermaya with the estimated 35,000 people attended the concert. Rivermaya, the 2006 MTV Asia awardee, composed of vocalist Jayson Fernandez, drummer Mark Escueta, bassist Japs Sergio and guitarist Mike Elgar performed two songs “Nice To” and “You’ll Be Safe Here,” both of which were warmly received by the audience. Labor Attaché Delmer Cruz also watched the festival. He managed to provide some VIP tickets to the late comers who have registered but feel short to get the tickets. Two weeks before the concert, Attaché Mylo Fausto on Culture and Arts of the Philippine Embassy in Seoul made a series of announcement inviting all Filipino migrant workers. A preregistration form was provided to determine the total expected number of Filipino spectators and to ensure they will be provided with free VIP tickets. “As a foreigner, I am really impressed and thankful to the organizers. Besides special treatment to foreign audience, I feel delighted with VIP free tickets,” Lovely, a Filipina audience said. The concert unfolded with international Korean opera singer Rose Jang belting out “All That Jazz”. Korean boyband SS501 with two dance numbers followed by Hong Kong’s R&B diva Karen Mok’s energetic singing performance. While Chinese singer Anson Hu serenaded the

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Korea’s top ballad singer Shin Seung-hun performed “I Believe,” a song from the popular Korean film “My Sassy Girl” while Agnes Monica, dubbed as the Britney Spears of Indonesia, also caught attention for her sizzling dance number. Expectedly, the night’s biggest cheers were reserved for popular male groups, Fahrenheit from Taiwan, W-inds from Japan and TVXQ from South Korea. Fahrenheit showed off their strong dance moves, as they performed three songs, including the cheerful “New Home.” The group’s popularity recently soared around Asia after two of its members, Wu Chun and Jiro Wang starred in “Hana Kimi, a Taiwanese drama. W-inds, a three-member R&B group, who recently released their album “Seventh Ave.,” also performed their latest single for the first time in Korea. The crowd became even more excited when TVXQ came out to perform songs from their new album “Mirotic,” and “Hey! (Don’t Bring Me Down).” With the theme “Asia is One,” the Asia Song Festival has always been aiming to increase cultural exchanges among Asian countries and promoting Asian music. Shin Hyun-taek, director of Korea Foundation for International Cultural Exchange (KOFICE), an organizer of the song festival, said that the 5th Asia Song Festival has grown to become one of the biggest music festivals in Asia. “The festival brings artists from different countries together and creates a solid foundation for artists to become stars around Asia,” he added.

EDITORIAL A Tribute to SULYAPINOY First Anniversary Celebration

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ubbed as the voice of the living heroes, Filipino EPS Workers Association (FEWA) has set the community journalism by which people participate actively by doing journalism in serving people and involving in some issues that are relevant to various Filipino communities in South Korea. Issues which have become perennial since the early Filipino migrants set foot on the peninsula. These issues and concerns gave birth to SULYAPINOY.

Currently, this newsletter for Filipino migrants in South Korea has produced 12 relevant and newsworthy issues with approximately 51,000 expatriates who have contributed and supported the newsletter marked with unprecedented development, current writing styles in journalism, prestige and with published articles to other news agencies within short period of time. What has made these remarkable contributions and accomplishments possible? Gifted with brilliant writers, the newsletter has provided the privileges to embrace our volunteer Filipino writers who are tirelessly sharing the time, efforts, talents and resources to function as one for the needed information of the community like Korean language, culture and labor laws, the Memorandum of Understanding on Employment Permit System, crusade against Memorandum Circular No.04 and the on-going signature campaign to oppose the bilateral agreement of Pension Funds and sharpen our skills and creativity to both virtual and print media. Despite being unpaid and understaffed, our beloved sponsors and partners from various Filipino groups and Catholic communities in Seoul, Incheon, Gyeonggi-do, Chungcheonbukdo, Pusan and other provinces in South Korea are generously sharing their trust and full support to bring the issues and controversies to light for the public to be aware of and stand united as one for the common good, in promoting

Filipino culture and the arts and in dealing with issues concerned with the labor sector and to our women married to Koreans. Also, never ending issues and success stories of our expatriates who voluntarily serve our underserved Filipino migrant workers thru legal and financial assistance, medical services, spiritual enlightenment, Korean culture and language education, counseling and inspirations enough for immediate recovery to counter the side-effects brought in by social injustice, climate change, hunger and global economic crisis. Press freedom prevails keeping us to be the watchdog and of valuable help to the community. As we celebrate our first anniversary, allow us to share this event with the global Filipino community as we hold the first Gawad Fr. Glenn Giovanni Jaron 2008. Inspired with the heroic deeds and contributions of our hero priest who served our fellow migrants for almost ten years, this momentous event pays tribute to the most outstanding Filipinos and communities who have provided valuable projects in providing social services and promoting Filipino values and culture in South Korea. Aimed to encourage solidarity and practice Bayanihan among Filipino communities

EDITORIAL STAFF

amid differences, this will surely be an annual event to look forward to by all Filipinos in and outside South Korea. And our deepest gratitude to all the people who seek for truth as they read with conviction and heard our voice-the stories, views, predicaments and sentiments of all living heroes in the vicious cycle of migration which have been kept secrets for years and sharing such revelations to inform and inspire people is indeed fulfilling and noble as SULYAPINOY continuously foster community press with accuracy as to empower the Filipino expatriates for generations worldwide. To all our most valued readers and contributors, Maraming Salamat Po.

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 “Chabok” Paragsa; Michael B. Balba; Jose “Joel” Tavarro; Rebeck P. Beltran; Joan C. Romero; and Edgar T. Balista 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]

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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 OCTOBER 2008

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NEWS Sambayanan Crowns by Amie Sison

2nd and 1st Runners Up respectively. messages and testimonials enthralled the crowd. “We feel the true presence of God’s embrace and the Holy Spirit,” said a participant. Prayer partners from Busan, Daegu, Incheon, and other major cities in South Korea came and joined Fr. Theophilus Choi and Fr. Sebastian Gabuya, OFM on the celebration.

Fr. Alvin Parantar M.S.P. gave his message about the Holy Spirit. He explained that the Holy Spirit has a Photo by Amie Sison creative power to redeem Papal Nuncio Osvaldo Padilla,D.D celebrates the Holy Eucharist with El Shaddai Prayer our sin and sent to glorify. Partners at Tongsong Auditorium, Seoul.

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Bro. Allan Rodrigez and Sr. Norma Liquido from Seoul Chapter hosted the program.

Religious songs, dance interpretation, inspirational

El Shaddai is a bibilical name for God and was established by Bro.Mariano “Mike” Velarde in 1984. Today, El Shaddai has a reported worldwide membership of about eight million.

yehwadong, Seoul — The El Shaddai-DWXI Prayer Partners in South Korea led by Sis. Irene Diones celebrated its 16th anniversary at Tongsong Auditoruim with main celebrant Papal Nuncio Osvaldo Padilla, D.D last Sep. 28.

SULYAPINOY Launches... education and social awareness, Filipino values, culture and the arts to various Filipino communities while working or living in South Korea. Also, FEWA administrative adviser Rebenson Recana said that FEWA and SULYAPINOY are hoping to motivate more Filipino volunteers and communities to continue the legacy of Fr. Glenn for the glory of God. “I was one of those migrant workers who have experienced and witnessed the compassion and heroism of Fr. Glenn during hardships. FEWA and SULYAPINOY exist because of him. He is the source of our inspiration to continue serving, like our awardees, our fellow migrant workers in South Korea,” he added. On his message emailed from Sacramento, California, Fr. Glenn said that at first he was hesitant to accept the idea of using his name as an awardee but when the leaders of FEWA and SULYAPINOY convinced that the award is not for him, but for the people to be more inspired as they work hard for the cause of the Filipino migrants, he agreed. “To tell you the truth, I am honored more than those who will be receiving this award and at the same time humbled because just like many of you, I am just an ordinary person who happened to be a priest. There is nothing extraordinary in what I was doing when I was still with you. I was just doing my part as a priest, as a chaplain, as a fellow-Filipino and as a Christian. In fact, it was my way of paying for my sins which is really a lot. Serving the Filipino Community is an honor and a privilege for me,” he added.

Meanwhile, the five most outstanding Filipino community awardees are as follows: Hyehwadong Filipino Catholic Community (HFCC), Seoul; Ansan Filipino Community (AFC), Ansan; Kasan Migrant Workers Center (KMWC), Pocheon; Human Rights Welfare of Filipino Community (HRWOFC), Cheongju; and Changhyun Filipino Catholic Community (CFCC), Maseok. On the other hand, the recipients of Gawad Fr. Glenn awards for five most outstanding Filipinos in South Korea are namely: Sr. Miguela P. Santiago, FMA, who started her service in 1957 and received her honorary citizenship in 1991 in South Korea, 2007 ILKA Foundation Awardee, and she devoted her life in serving the distressed Filipino migrant workers such as helping them in getting new jobs, processing of retirement fees, and counseling on labor related issues; Pastor Jones Galang, current pastor of Osan Migrant Center of the Presbyterian Church in South Korea, he also devoted his life in promoting Filipino migrants social rights and welfare and established Katipunan ng mga Samahang Migranteng Manggagawa sa Korea and personally confronted some abusive Korean employers and assist distressed Filipino workers; Prof. Emely DicolenAbagat, chairperson of HFCC Committee on Education and at the same time the editor-in-chief of Sambayanan publication; Judith Hernandez, a Filipina and a first foreign-born political candidate in South Korea; and last but not least Franklin Caturla, newly elected president of HRWOFC, a silent type migrant servant whom provided a meritorious contribution to FEWA and SULYAPINOY objectives and ideals.

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Other candidates who have well represented themselves during the pageant were Sherlaine Sabornozo, Analyn Regala, and Nerie Rivera. Among the gentlemen were Joel Batoon, and Francis Agustin. The panel of judges whose role of choosing this year's winners was composed of the following envoys and personalities: Attaché Milo Fausto of Department of Culture and the Arts- South Korea; Attaché Maricon Ebron, of Department of Tourism to South Korea; Loreta Medina, a visual artist from the Philippines; Cathy Rose Garcia, a staff reporter of The Korea Times; and His Excellency RP Ambassador Luis T. Cruz. The cultural pageantry is a fund-raising project of the Hyewhadong Filipino Catholic Community (HFCC) under the supervision of Fr. Alvin Parantar, MSP with the chairmanship of Prof. Emely D. Abagat, PH.D., Chairperson HFCC Education Committee, and choreography of Edgar Balista, HFCC President. Also, Bevi Tamargo of Onfino and Hermie Garrobo co-emceed the event with Balista and Prof. Abagat.

The selection of awardees for both community and individual categories were heavily based on promoting Filipino migrant workers’ rights and welfare, Filipino values, fostering leadership and unity, empowerment thru education and social awareness and promoting culture and the arts of the Philippines. SULYAPINOY board of publication and editorial staff spearheaded the selection process of the awardees. “Based on our regular visits, monitoring and wide coverage on various Filipino communities and their activities across South Korea, SULYAPINOY is considerably confident to select the first Gawad Fr. Glenn Award 2008 recipients, with God’s grace, we hope to include all FILCOM members as we welcome more awardees in the next selection process,” Peñaranda said. Fr. Glenn, thru his email message, proudly congratulated all the awardees. ”There is really nothing we can do without God and let us give the award with the idea that God is always there in everything we do,” he shared.

Words of Wisdom "Without faith, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible." ~ Mary McLeod Bethune ~

MESSAGES ARCHDIOCESAN PASTORAL CENTER FOR FILIPINO MIGRANTS

EMBASSY OF THE PHILIPPINES SOUTH KOREA OFFICE OF THE AMBASSADOR

MESSAGE Ipinaaabot ko ang aking taos-pusong pagbati sa mga bumubuo ng Board of Publication at Editorial Staff sa ikaunang Anibersaryo ng pagkakalimbag ng SULYAPINOY! Nawa’y dumami pa ang mga mambabasa ng inyong lathalain at lumawak ang talakayan sa bawa’t isyu, lalo na sa mga pamamaraan upang pa-igtingin ang mga magagandang kaugalian ng mga Pilipino bilang maka-Diyos, makatao, maka-bansa at maka-kalikasang mamamayan. Sa gayon, ating maipamamalas sa mga Koreano at iba pang mga banyaga na ating makakasalamuha sa bansang Korea ang maipagmamalaking tatak ng lahing Pilipino. Ang mga ito ay ang ating angking galing, talino, mahusay na pakikitungo, pagka-madasalin, masayahin at pagmamalasakit sa kapwa.

Mabuhay ang SULYAPINOY! (Sgd) LUIS T. CRUZ Ambassador

MESSAGE On behalf of the Hwehwadong Filipino Catholic Community, I would like to express my warmest greetings to SULYAPINOY editorial board and staff, HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! The first year of SULYAPINOY was not easy. Logistical support and necessary expertise were hard to find. Thanks to the gutsy and hardworking initiators, Mr. Rebenson Recaña and companions, this publication was born and is here to stay to provide alternative venue for information and interaction for the Filipino migrant workers in Korea. Certainly, the Lord has blessed the good intentions and best efforts of the SULYAPINOY personnel that is why, even in its first year, it already made a significant impact on the Filipino community. Congratulations for the publication’s accomplishments, and for its service to the community, our sincerest gratitude. I pray that the Lord bless SULYAPINOY and its staff, sponsors and supporters with more meaningful and fruitful years of service to the Filipinos. (Sgd) Fr. Alvin B. Parantar, MSP SULYAPINOY Consultant/FEWA Spiritual Adviser

ARCHDIOCESAN PASTORAL CENTER FOR FILIPINO MIGRANTS

EMBASSY OF THE PHILIPPINES SOUTH KOREA PHILIPPINE OVERSEAS LABOR OFFICE (POLO)

EDUCATION COMMITTEE

MESSAGE

MESSAGE

Chukha Hamnida to SULYAPINOY on the occasion of its first year anniversary.

KUDOS to all the staffers of SULYAPINOY on the occasion of their 1st year anniversary. I know the birthing process wasn’t easy. But you have finally come this far by faith.

The men and women behind SULYAPINOY did not stop at giving direct assistance to their brethren in distress. They went a step further, this time by providing a forum for education, information and exchange of ideas. The fact that SULYAPINOY has reached one year of continued circulation, relying merely on volunteered time of dedicated staff and donations of supportive patrons, only proves that it has withstood the birthpains of a new organization. Moreover, one year of continued patronage by its readers attests to one fact - SULYAPINOY is relevant. May SULYAPINOY's circulation increase further, as I look forward to greeting you again next year. (Sgd) ATTY. DELMER R. CRUZ Labor Attaché

I congratulate you specifically for having: • survived the difficulty of starting from practically nothing but dedicated and committed people; • shared your precious time, effort and personal resources to make things work; • contributed your skills to make the newsletter and website possible; • tapped the potentials of people who selflessly offered their talents and contributions; • made the newsletter and website possible with limited material and financial resources; • shared valuable and relevant information about Filipinos in Korea; and • for having offered friendship to Filipinos not only in Korea but other countries as well. I share your joy and success! May SULYAPINOY have more years ahead! (Sgd) Prof. Emely Dicolen-Abagat, Ph.D. SULYAPINOY Consultant/FEWA Adviser

www.sulyapinoy.org

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FEATURE

The voice of the modern living heroes can perfectly draw Filipinos’ first judgment on it, SULYAPINOY, as what the cliché says, is no ordinary publication. SULYAPINOY is synonymous to the words service and sacrifice for the people working for this value these principles so much. It is also a clear representation of the very essence of unity because people behind SULYAPINOY work as one to attain its objectives. It is not about the prestige of being a part of the publication, but it’s the loyalty that made the people stay. SULYAPINOY may not be a century-old publication, but it has so much determination despite the fact of being young in the industry. Never more, never less, the principle of accuracy is what makes it worthy of being appreciated by Filipino communities in South Korea. It’s not merely the craft of SULYAPINOY’s editorial staff, their passionate hearts and minds to serve OFWs differentiate them from others. Its sole purpose of making the people aware of what’s going on indeed makes it a real informative instrument. The strong spirit of nationalism wanting to be of service to every Filipino makes SULYAPINOY more meaningful. It is very true that if there is a good intention and if something is being done due to a certain cause, it will be outstanding like SULYAPINOY. With strong faith to the Lord Almighty, SULYAPINOY continues in yielding hope to the hearts of every Filipino in South Korea. This radical piece of work is what defines journalism in its genuine essence of not being silent that echoes even beyond the bounds of tall facades preventing the sounds to be heard by everyone. But who are the people behind8 It all started from the so called “the servant leader”, Rebenson Recaña. He is a leader who is full of passion and dedication to fulfill his work and at the same time making everyone feel that they are making a difference for the success of the organization. 24 hours is not enough for him posing the question ‘does he still sleep?’ Time and place don’t matter as long as if someone needs his help, he will definitely be there. He is a fighter who never gives up despite the hindrances that come along the way. He fights for what he thinks is right and never gets destructed because he believes that everything is possible.

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by Maria Regina Arquiza Endowed with talent yet, never arrogant, is what describes Elizer Peñaranda, SULYAPINOY’s pride. Unbeknownst to others, he is an editor-in-chief who never brags about his innate talent in journalism. His quiet nature of not telling people how good he is represents a paradox of a loud silence. Despite his nature, his writings are indeed strong and loud that can touch and change lives. He affirms the meaning of the famous quote ‘the pen is mightier than the sword’. With all of these, he should be aware of the fact that he is so brilliant and that he should be proud of that. Dondave Jabay is another story. This managing editor is an epitome of a perfectbalanced person. Aside from the fact that he accomplishes the tasks assigned to him with utmost quality and perfection, he has the capability to do multi-tasking like writing, lay-outing, and more proving his worth as one of the backbones of SULYAPINOY. He is a solid representation of a man of substance who has a quirky side within. Then Edward Castro, SULYAPINOY’s news editor. He is one hip and cool guy that is comparable to Marianas Trench. His mind may not be interpreted as being located on the surface of the earth’s crust, but rather its depth is unimaginable. And also, his soulful voice that has much to share to the world expresses his thoughts as rational as ever, and take note, with much style there is. I move on to Alden Balgos, SULYAPINOY’s cartoonist. Underneath his simple persona lies a creative mind that needs to be discovered. It has long been kept which now deserves to be seen by the world. With his quiet character which can be equated to a loud silence, it can be perceived that he seems to be saying something without saying anything. He has so much potential and he only needs that simmering passion in his heart to be free.

www.sulyapinoy.org

Another exciting discovery is South Korea’s Ms. Congeniality, Amie Sison. This literary editor has so much energy and never gets tired. Her passion and enthusiasm are contagious which inspire the people around her to just keep on going. Shyness isn’t included on her vocabulary as seen in her vibrant personality. She is very special8 a very good mother, a good friend, a good Christian, a dedicated public servant, and a pure-hearted woman. And there’s Sofonias ‘Chabok’ Paragsa, FEWA’s president and a regular contributor of SULYAPINOY. Loyalty means Chabok, Chabok means loyalty. These two are synonymous. From the very beginning, he was the one who believed that FEWA-SULYAPINOY will succeed with its visions. He held his principles very tightly with so much dedication making him not only a good follower but an inspiring leader as well. Next

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SULYAPINOY’s photojournalist, Felix Ferrer. In spite of being new in the editorial staff, he exudes so much energy as he performs his job. Amidst the clutter, he still manages to laugh making the people around him find delight in so many things around them. Last but not least, Maria Regina Arquiza who else but your friendly DJ Regz who simply taps your day to make it even brighter with the coolest sounds around. With small voice that conquers the big, big world, how can this possibly be without the simple, caring and loving Me. These prodigious writers on top of my list gave me nothing but inspired me almost with everything: to value the invaluable; strengthen my weaknesses; and offer my long-term investment-knowledge. Oops! Also, your support and patronage for keeping our voice louder and clearer as it echoes beyond the boundaries of elements and time. Once again, SULYAPINOY is no ordinary publication.

FEATURE

A tale of a Servant Leader If there is somebody whom the people considered the toughest and the most influential Filipino in South Korea, it's definitely Fr. Glenn Giovanni Jaron, MSP. He had been serving the Filipino community in Korea for ten years; the spiritual life of every migrant was enlightened while he got the "hottest" telephone for it received calls 24/7. Well, that's how we used to know our beloved hero priest. Have you ever wondered if our holy man cried? For in our eyes, he’s got all the wisdom and courage. Several times, he witnessed how migrants fell into tears as they asked for his help over their grievances and troubles. Actually nobody is excused because even Fr. Glenn cried not just once but several times for incomparable reasons. He's proud to share with us as he remembered the time when he started working with the community-The Hyehwadong Filipino Catholic Community, the largest Filipino Community in South Korea.

by Elizer M. Peñaranda Seoul while unnoticeably crying. Until, the long wait is finally over. When the bishop saw the needs of those who were billeted into a very crowded room extended to the hallway, the Archdiocese of Seoul bought the new four-storey building from the Salesian Congregation for the amount of 450 million Won. And his tears have not stopped there yet. Again, Fr. Glenn cried but it was the tears of happiness this time. During the inauguration and blessing, he couldn't believe that this would come this far. Even on his dreams, he didn't imagine that the community

Though he was awarded with the honorary citizenship by the government of South Korea, he needed to comply with his calling for another mission in Sacramento, California last December. Again, on his farewell message to the Filipino community, he sobbedly said, “Maraming salamat sa lahat ng aking natulungan at para sa hindi ko nabigyan ng pagkalinga isasama ko po kayo sa aking panalangin.”

During his early years as the chaplain, he's been exposed to rescuing people from different forms of abuse. He recalled the time when an employer locked him up in one of the rooms in a factory somewhere in Uijungbu while helping Filipino workers escape from that area. The next day after the said rescue, he could not help but cried during his homily.

This November, the Filipino EPS Workers Association (FEWA), the largest EPS workers organization initiated by Fr. Glenn himself and its newsletter SULYAPINOY have launched the Gawad Fr. Glenn Giovanni Jaron (Most Outstanding Filipino and Community in South Korea) with the blessings of our hero priest who is now based in Sacramento. With the usual support from the current HFCC Chaplain Fr. Alvin Parantar, MSP, this has paved the way in recognizing the valuable services contributions of Filipino individuals and communities to all OFWs and in promoting Philippine culture and the arts in South Korea.

Another incident had happened in Songsu where he accompanied some Pinoy workers. Along the way, they were arrested for no valid reason. They brought them to the police station and were interrogated in Korean language as part of the blatant investigation. Unfortunately, his Korean language that time was insufficient for he couldn't express his answers precisely. As a result, the priest was brutally insulted. Upon getting back to the community center, he prayed and fell into tears. The Filipino Catholic Community has witnessed sentiments and challenges confronted our servant leader like his crusade against human trafficking in the forms of entertainment and inter-racial marriages and his compassion with homeless unemployed workers who were victims of physical abuses and culture shock from their previous Korean employers and co-workers. At the same manner, Fr. Glenn together with the community has sacrificed so much for its survival and development amid insufficient funds and a number of victims confined who sought for immediate help and compassion. He reported the various needs and problems of our fellow migrants in the community center to the Archdiocese of

Our hero priest shared to us the value of self-sacrifice, "Always remember that if you don't sacrifice, you will not get anything." Thus, the Hyehwadong Filipino Catholic Community Center has provided highly commendable services which include medical in partnership with the local hospitals and medical clinic. To mention, the community has selected St. Rafael Clinic which offers free medical and dental services for all migrants in Seoul. In the same manner, the medical clinic has pulled the same recognition by which the community has received from the Malacanang Palace of the Philippines.

would be having such ideal building which can accommodate a number of distressed migrants and continued providing services and comfort to those who were in need of home. In 2004, the presidential recognition for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas "Banaag" was awarded to Hyehwadong Filipino Catholic Community in recognition of its role in providing invaluable assistance to distressed Filipinos in South Korea and creating a sense of solidarity and belongingness within the Filipino community in Seoul.

In line with the awarding ceremony, Fr. Glenn in his mother tongue shared,” Kamo na lang ang bahala niana kay nasayod naman mo kung unsa ang atong kalipay para niana ug para sa mga modawat sa award. Hinaut unta nga pinaagi sa mao nga award maka-agni mo ug dahan pa nga mga migrante nga andam maghatag sa ilang panahon para sa uban, pareho ninyo.” He believed that the recognition will greatly inspire other Filipino migrants to come in light and help the underserved OFWs. Various Filipino Communities continuously bring hope, joy and home to all Filipino migrants in the entire peninsula. And Fr. Glenn who is, indeed, an epitome of God's sacrifice for our salvation and who had fallen into tears for ten glorious years out of his unconditional love- the shared Love that surely remains in every migrant's heart.

www.sulyapinoy.org

SULYAPINOY OCTOBER 2008

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FEATURE

“Ang programang ito ay para sa ating lahat!” (This program is for all of us) DJ Regina greets her listeners to inspire and brighten up the Filipino community on her daily radio program for the multicultural family broadcast in South Korea.

by Elizer M. Peñaranda The radio program is a way for her to entertain and educate her fellow women. “It isn’t just about knowing the issues, it’s more on understanding the heart of the issues,” she added. Born in Camarines Norte The 24 year-old Bicolana, now the first Filipino radio broadcaster in South Korea, was born on Feb. 1, 1984 in Daet, Camarines Norte where her parents Reynaldo and Julieta Arquiza ran an agriculture business.

DJ Regina: On Air.

Sponsored by Woongjin foundation in partnership with Digital Radio Kiss and Digital Skynet, this radio program is the first to showcase Filipino OPM songs with current news and information related to labor, tourism and the daily lives of Filipino expatriates in the Korean peninsula.

As the youngest in the family, she has fond memories of sharing dreams about working for the Filipino community outside the Philippines with her sister Maria Soledad and brother Rey Franco. Regina shared the early achievements of her siblings but added that she’s proud to be the most diligent and hardworking.

There are two difficult things that challenge her. “The first is understanding deeply the issues related to Filipina migrants with Korean spouses in Korea. It has been said that there will always be two sides in a coin. In this case I have to understand both sides of the issues, and that requires patience and deep analysis of the problems at hand. “The second thing I consider difficult in this is the Korean language. Proficiency in it is very important to fully understand the existing issues written or even broadcast in this country,” she continued.

DJ Regina or Maria Regina Panol Arquiza said that it was the Philippine Embassy that informed her organization, Pinoy Iskolar in Korea (PIKO), about the urgent need for a radio broadcaster to address Filipino women married to Koreans. Before she started to start conquering the Korean airwaves, it took a few months of advertisements in different Filipino communities in metropolitan Seoul and nearby provinces and even an announcement by Philippine Ambassador Luis Cruz in Catholic churches for the long search to finally discover Regina, a scholar of Media Studies, Advertising and Public Relations in Ewah Womans University.

The Scholar: Educating a woman is to educate the community.

Gingging: Endearing name of her loving family.

“I really feel so blessed for having such a supportive and loving family – they inspired me the most to conquer my dreams through God-given talents and share the passion in this kind of endeavor,” she added.

Regina’s program, aired at 3 am, 9am, 3 pm and 9 pm, is broadcast in four languages, with Chinese, Vietnamese and Thai also part of the multicultural Family Broadcast on Skylife Channel 855, Cable TV thru C&M Channel 312 and websites thru Woongjin Foundation: www.wjfoundation.or.kr and Digital Radio KISS.

Work and Studies in South Korea St. Scholastica’s College Graduate Regina earned a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications, minor in Print Journalism in 2005.

Regina needed to make adjustments in her daily routine because she now needs to prepare her scripts for the program as she keeps her scholarship in one of the top universities in Seoul. She has also become an instant public figure among the various Filipino communities, featured in leading national broadsheets like The Chosun Ilbo and JoongAng Daily, and TV programs like MBC, SBS and KBS of South Korea.

The Scholasticans: Empowered thru Benedictine Education.

“There is one very important quote that my favorite professor in St. Scho was always telling us,” she says, “If you educate a man, you educate an individual but if you educate a woman, you educate a community and I won’t forget it,” said DJ Regina.

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“Before the program started, I read a lot of articles about migrant women in Korea and other parts of the world for I‘ve learned that there are so many issues and problems that make me value my worth as a woman and take the opportunity to become an instrument in touching the lives of other migrants, especially women,” Regina said.

www.sulyapinoy.org

Maria Regina Arquiza: A Filipina, Our pride.

“I am expecting that this multilingual radio broadcasting program is going to serve as a bridge to the gap between Koreans and Filipinos. It’s about time for both sides to understand each other’s cultures and thoughts more deeply. And then, I do have great hope that this program will help Filipino migrants enhance their cultural identity and it will serve as a channel to disseminate relevant information in empowering the people with information,” said DJ Regina. (The article was posted on the Global Nation of Inquirer.net last September 11, 2008)

FUN & LEARN / ANNOUNCEMENTS

By: Sofonias ‘Chabok’ Paragsa

1 3 5

6 7

9

문 제 2 3 본 래 산 5 4 동 화 책 6 사 요 8 전 제 일 복 10 다 11 음 식 주 1

2 4

By: Dondave Jabay

안 테 9 만 나 세 12 맥 7

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10 11 12

Answer to September Issue

DOWN

ACROSS 1) member 2) 10 persons 4) office 7) beautiful 9) last, the end 11) university, college 12) mosquito

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

pronoun fact, reality, truth fearful, dreadful name father bridge village 10) rod stick bar

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

by Alden C. Balgos

Answer to September Issue

02 - Ricardo B. Diesta 04 - Melson I. Longboy 05 - Nelson I. Bautista 08 - Marzy Serdeña III 11 - Expidito T. Enriquez Jr. Anthony R. Orlina 13 - Ma. Lourdes Espinola

14 - Edith M. Omelan 17 - Michael C. Casimiro 18 - Edgar P. Sepada Cesar P. Aniceto 19 - Raymundo E. Millares Feliciano Tutor 24 - Jasser D. Lozares

www.sulyapinoy.org

SULYAPINOY OCOTOBER 2008

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LITERARY SULYAP

Lipad Sulyapinoy

1st Prize Winner ni Michael Barairo Balba (Baran Community)

2nd Prize Winner ni Jose "Joel" Y. Tavarro (FEWA Member)

S-ulyapinoy ay dumating sa bansa ng Korea Dala ay kasiyahan sa puso ng bawat isa Kababaang-loob at panalangin ang ginamit na sandata Kaya malayo ang narating babasahing sinisinta.

Napakatulin ng panahon, di halos namalayan Pinagsumikapang punpunin, ng masipag at dakilang huwaran Mga manunulat noo’y kanyang nilapitan, kinakaibigan Upang mabuo ang babasahing inyong kinagigiliwan.

U-maapaw ang ligaya sa puso ng sinuman Tuwing ito'y makikita mababasa't mamamasdan Kawangis ay magandang bulaklak sa parang Sa pusong nalulungkot nagdudulot kasiyahan.

Talino‘t oras ang nilaan, pinatunayang kayang bumangon Sa panghuhusga ng sanlibutan, hinarap ang hamon Hinawan ang pangamba, tumindig at hindi pinahintulutan Maging dawag at balakid sa pangarap na pahayagan.

L-alim ng karagatan daig pa ang narating Kapag iyong natunghayan mga akdang kaygagaling Animo ay isang dilag na lubusang ginigiliw Katangiang tinataglay tiyak laging hahanapin.

Tila kulog na umalingawngaw ang bantog na pangalan Dagundong ng malakas na tinig, ikaw‘y pinakinggan Balaraw mong pagsulyap, ang katiwalian nilabanan Kasakiman at panggugulang ay matalas na minatiyagan.

Y-aman ng iyong isip ay lalong yayabong Pagkat bagong kaalaman ay dito naroroon Makapagbigay kasiyaha't taos pusong makatulong Malayang pamamayahag ang kanilang mga layon.

Wari mo’y kidlat kung umaksiyon lahat nagugulat Sapagkat malalaking tao ang tunay nakasangga’t kabalikat Ang pagtulong akalaing panudla, matulis na sibat Sa’yong nakasisilaw na kislap, mabilis kang nakaangat.

A-numang pagsubok sa tuwina ay dumating Sa tulong ng Diyos Ama tiyak kakayanin Nawa itong Sulyapinoy malayo pa ang marating Upang ito ay matulad sa bituin na maningning.

P-atuloy man na malagas mga dahon ng panahon Tag-init man o taglamig taglagas man o tagsibol Sa bendisyon pagpapala at gabay ng Panginoon Kaylanman di mawawala nangungunang Sulyapinoy.

Nagsimula Sila sa Wala, Ngayon ay Nakalayo Na 3rd Prize Winner ni Joan C. Romero Sa aking murang isipan batid ko ang kahirapan Kung kaya't dito sa dayuhang bansa ako'y nakipagsapalaran Hindi ko alam noon kung paano ko sisimulan Ang bawat araw na malayo sa pamilya't kaibigan. 'Di ko makalimutan, unang bisita ko sa simbahan Napawi ang lahat ng pangamba't lungkot na nararamdaman Panibagong pag-asa at lakas ang hatid ng kapaligiran Tila sinasabing, "kaibigan, hindi ka nag-iisa sa laban". Kasabay ng paglaglag ng mga dahon sa lupa Isang babasahin ang aking nakilala ng 'di sinasadya Laman ay balita't paalala na hindi pwedeng ibalewala Parang isinilang ang magbubuklod sa iba't-ibang mga wika. At tulad ng inaasahan ay unti-unti ng nakilala Dahil sa taglay nitong katangian wala sa iba Ang karapatan at kapakanan ng kapwa nating manggagawa Ay walang sawang tinutugunan sa abo't ng makakaya. Hindi ako magtataka kung malayo nang narating nila Nagpapasalamat ako dahil may mga taong katulad nila Na sa pamamagitan ng pagsususlat para sa kapwa Hindi nila batid na sila na pala'y nakakapagpaligaya. Para sa totoong grupo na iisa ang mithiin Sana'y lalong pagbutihin at maging matatag sa suliranin Sapagkat hindi lang tulong ang dulot sa amin Pati isang kaibigan na handang makinig sa akin.

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www.sulyapinoy.org

Moog na matibay, baluti’t kalasag, pader na tanggulan Kaya naman lubos ang pasasalamat, pagtulong ninyo’y nariyan Sa malabay mong bagwis, pangamba ng kababayan’y naibsan Marapat kayong gawaran, tagumpay ay makamtan. Lipad! “Sulyapinoy!”, sa himpapawid sila’y pagmasdan Ibuka ang magarang pakpak at ikampay sa kalawakan Ang kinang ng iyong balahibo’y tiningala ng karamihan Sa iyong pagpupunyagi, nagdulot ng matamis na karangalan.

Sa Iyong Pagsilang 4th Prize Winner ni Rebeck P. Beltran (HFCC Volunteer)

Isang taong singkad ang matuling nagdaan nang ikaw'y unang masilayan ng sambayanan bagama't mahirap para sa iyo ang simulan adhikaing makatulong sa mga nangangailangan. Napapanahon nga, tunay na kailangan isang masasandigan, tunay na maaasahan sa mga panahong sakbibi ng kalungkutan at kulang sa mga impormasyon at kaalaman. Sa pag silang mo SULYAPINOY; isang pasasalamat pagkat lunas ka sa suliraning may kaakibat sa pang araw-araw sa mga pag gawa samo't saring problema ang mga kinakaharap. Sa mga hatid mong impormasyon at balita mga dagdag kaalaman sa larangan ng pag gawa kung hanap mo'y libangan dito mayron nga tunay kang maaaliw sa bawat pahina. Tunay ka nga sa iyong mga adhikain layunin mo'y unti unting ng nararating sa paglalakbay sa mabatong landasin tiyak ang tagumpay mo, pagkat kasama ang dalangin.

LITERARY / 2008 FEWA OFFICERS MAHAL KONG SULYAPINOY

SULYAPINOY

ni Amie Sison (SULYAP’ Literary Editor)

5th Prize Winner ni Edgar T. Balista (HFCC President)

OFW sa Korea ay sadyang mapalad Sulyapinoy na pahayagan ay nailunsad Ang pahayagang tinanggap na bukas palad Para sa impormasyon na dapat ilahad.

Parang kelan lamang nang kanilang mapagkaisahan Paglikha ng isang natatanging samaha’t pahayagan Sulyapinoy ang ngalan na mangangalaga sa karamihan Binubuo ng mga kakaiba’t espesyal na tauhan. Mula Seoul hanggang Pusan kanilang napupuntahan Ipinaparating ang laman ng puso’t kaibuturan Handang mag alay ng panahon sa ating mga kababayan Tunay ngang Bagong Bayani kanilang ginagampanan.

Ang lamig na nagbuklod sa bawat isa Ikalawa ng Nobyembre nagkaroon ng pag-asa Ipinakilala sa mga kababayaan sa banal na misa Ang pinaghirapang pahayagan na kanilang binasa.

Noon dasal ko sa ating Amang Makapangyarihan Gabayan lahat ng namumuno sa kanilang bukod tanging samahan Nawa’y di maglaho ang ningas na kanilang sinimulan Upang ganap na maprotektahan mga tinatapakang karapatan.

Tuloy-tuloy ang pagmamahal na binigay Para sa Sulyapinoy, talento namin ay alay Para sa mga Pilipino ito'y nagbigay gabay Mga balita at impormasyon na kailangan sa buhay.

Kaya naman buong puso kong pinagpupugayan Mga nilalang na may angking dalisay na katalinuhan Ang tunay na dugo ninyo ay may Agimat na kapangyarihan Isigaw sa buong mundo na lahing Pinoy inyong pinagmulan.

Isang taon na ang mahal na pahayagan Ngunit kay dami na rin ang pinagdaanan Mga pangyayaring personal na nasaksihan At dito sa Korea balita'y binahagian.

Sulyapinoy nawa’y tuluyang mapagkaisa Filipinong mamamayan Hindi tayo magkakaaway dito sa ibang bayan Laging isaisip di maaring apihin tayong mga naninilbihan Magbuklod upang sulirani’y ganap na malampasan

Malayo pa ang kanyang mararating Dahil sa kababaang loob sa bawat damdamin Upang maisagawa ang mga layunin Hangga't kaya, kami ay nandito pa rin.

Ismael Calandria - Board Member

Sofonias ’Chabok’ Paragsa - President

Fritzalito Sapon - Board Member

Marcelino Serdena III - Vice President

Precy Villaveza - Board Member

Teofilo Camo - Board Member

Joel Tavarro - Board Member

Sheila Alvarez Balatero - Secretary

Ronnie de Guia - Treasurer

Marvin Babasa - Board Member

Ma. Victoria Cardona - Board Member

Rebenson Recaña FEWA Administrative Adviser

Ronald Austari - Auditor

Prof. Emely Diclon-Abagat Ph.D. FEWA Adviser

www.sulyapinoy.org

Fr. Alvin B. Parantar, MSP FEWA Spiritual Adviser SULYAPINOY OCTOBER 2008

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GAWAD FR. GLENN AWARDEES

Sis. Miguela P. Santiago, FMA

Judith Alegre Hernandez

Emely Dicolen-Abagat,Ph.D.

A Salesian missionary of the Hyehwadong Filipino Catholic Community (HFCC) and the Godmother of all Filipino Migrants in South Korea.

A Filipina and First Foreign-born Political Candidate in South Korea under the Creative Korean Party for the 18th National Election.

Chairperson, Education Committee of Archdiocesan Pastoral Center for Filipino Migrants.

Hailed in Tarlac City and at the age of 20 she was sent to Japan to undergo formation for 4 years from 1953-1957 She arrived in South Korea and assigned at Yung Dung Po Refuge District in Seoul On April 24, 1957 and became the superior at the Provincial House in Seoul and managed the Kinder School, the girls in hostile, the aspirancy and the postulancy program in 1970. Her valuable rendered services are as follows: In 1988, Superior of the Changwon Community; In 1993, started her special apostolate for the Filipino Migrants; In 2001, concurrently worked at the nursery; and in 2003, served as full time for Archdiocesan Pastoral Community Center for Filipino Migrants in Seoul. A recipient of numerous awards like plaque of appreciation from the Korean Government for working with girls in hostile, 1972; she was given an honorary Citizenship in 1991; and in Sept. of 2007, she received the ILKA Foundation award here in South Korea. (Equivalent to the Magsaysay Award in the Philippines). Currently, Sis. Miguela P. Santiago, FMA is continuously serving Filipino migrants in spiritual enlightenment, labor related counseling, providing labor-related assistance. Truly, the grandmother of all Filipinos in South Korea.

⇒ A native of Cavite who earned of Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education in Arellano University-Manila ⇒ Blessed with two children, she was first married a Korean national and naturalized in 1992 and remarried to Mr. Mazan, a migrant worker from Bangladesh. ⇒ For 16 years, she has has been living in South Korea and resides at 606-1406 Chongsul Village, Kuemkukdong, Bundanggu, Seongnam-si Kyeongi-do. ⇒ She served as interpreter for Filipinos and workers of other nationalities. ⇒ A former president of the Seongnam Migrant Center ⇒ An awardee during the 2007 Chuseok Migrant Festival ⇒ Currently, she is the president of the multicultural kindergarten established in 2007 sponsored by Lions Club and Seoul Broadcasting System (SBS) Productions at Guru Digital Complex. ⇒ Some of the programs she fully supported were counseling, trainings and skills development for Korean spouses, legalization of irregular workers and human rights of women and children particularly of the migrants. ⇒ Judith Hernandez attends forums and campaign for empowering women in the Korean society and political arena.

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She was hailed at Batac, Ilocos Norte and earned B.S. Education in the College of the Holy Spirit-Manila, MA in Theological Studies in Ateneo de Manila University and Doctor of Philosophy in University of Sto. Tomas Arrived in 2004, Prof. Emely is the second Filipino researcher under the Korea Foundation for Advanced Studies in South Korea. Academic positions held are as follows: professor, Theology Dept. College of the Holy Spirit -Manila, 1987-1999; professor, Religious Studies Dept. De la Salle University - Manila, 1998; and dean/professor – Graduate School Dept., Colegio de San Juan de Letran Calamba, 1999-2004. A recipient of Gerry Roxas Leadership Award, Immaculate Conception Academy 1983 and Leadership Award, Colegio of the Holy Spirit – Manila, 1987 For four years, she has actively been conducting seminars, retreats, recollections in different communities in Seoul, Gyeonggi-do, Incheon and other provinces and cities of South Korea. Currently, Prof. Emely Dicolen-Abagat, Ph.D. is the editor-in-chief of the SAMBAYANAN Newsletter and prepares training modules, conducts counseling, edits, layouts, facilitates meetings and scholarship programs in General Nakar, Quezon and a faculty of Korea Missionary Society Seminary in Suwon, South Korea

Pastor Jones Galang

Franklin Urbiztondo Caturla

Migrant Ministry – South Korea and Human Rights Advocate.

A Model Volunteer EPS Worker and a Press Freedom Advocate.

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He earned a Master of Arts in Philosophy at the Mother of Good Counsel Seminary in 1986. While on pastoral apostolate, he met Melody and they get married in June 1989 and blessed with three daughters Pamela, April Joy and Fatima Gaile. The Manila North Conference of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines already elevated him and recognized as a licentiate Pastor this year and hopefully be ordained Minister. He first felt a call to mission in Korea in 1998 and worked for himself. In March of 2002-2006, Missionary co-worker to Shalom House. In 2002, he served as a staff at the Shalom House Migrant Center in Pocheon Gyeonggi-do and established the Elim Mission Center at Itaewon Seoul respectively. Currently, Pastor Jones Galang is a missionary, co-worker, to the Presbyterian Church of Korea (PCK) to the Osan Migrant Workers Center. 610-11, Osan Dong Osan City 447-802 and an active supporter of Katipunan ng mga Samahang Migranteng Manggagawa sa Korea (KASAMMA-KO) and a human rights advocate promoting Christian values and equal rights of all migrants in South Korea.

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www.sulyapinoy.org

⇒ A native of Surigao City and a BS in Electronics and Communications Engineering graduate ⇒ He arrived in South Korea in 2006 and worked under the ⇒

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Employment Permit System A former active member of Filipino EPS Workers Association in Seoul and vice-president of Human Rights Welfare Organization of Filipino Community (HRWOFC) in Cheongju City An awardee of HRWOFC Model of Volunteers on July 27, 2008 He supported press freedom by raising funds for SULYAPINOY and promoting the role of journalism among Filipino communities in South Korea. For three years of working, he showed compassion with fellow migrants and rendered community services for the Home of the Aged in Cheongju City. Also, he attended seminars, trainings on labor-related laws, has been an active participant to forums for legal affairs sponsored by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office(POLO) in Seoul, supported Pangkabuhayan (Franchising) Seminar and held sports activities like basketball league in Cheongju City. Currently, Franklin Caturla is the elected president of the Human Rights Welfare Organization of Filipino Community in Cheongju City.

GAWAD FR. GLENN AWARDEES

Hyehwadong Filipino Catholic Community

Kasan Migrant Workers Center

Ansan Filipino Community

115-9 Songbuk-gu,Songbuk 1-dong, Songbuk Villa, Seoul, South Korea 136-020

409-7 Masan-ri, Kasan Myeon, Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea 487-812 Telephone No. (031)543-5795 FAX: (031) 543-5296

Galilea Migrant Workers Pastoral Center, Na106, 844-1 Sung Hwan 1Cha, Wongok-dong, Danwon-gu, Ansan City, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea 425-130

History: KMWC was established in March 2001, an international community of migrant workers which have hope and strong Faith in God. The center is currently under the supervision of Sis. Luz Olalia, SJBP and Sis. Juliana Kim, SJBP with President Anthony Carl Dacones, Fr. Jun Perez, SVD and 65 volunteers.

History: Established in 1992 thru the initiative of Mang Boy and Kuya Boyong with Chaplain Fr. Pio Hwang; Constitution by Kuya Ben Magundayao, 1994 and Fr. Eugene Docoy established Galilea to help migrants workers in 1997; Chaplains Fr. Damian (1999), Fr. Dennis (2000), Fr. Eugene Docoy (2001), Fr. Noel Ferrer, SVD (2005), Fr. Kristianus Piatu, SVD (present) with President Kathlia De Castro and 86 volunteers.

Activities: Church events like Sunday Mass, Simbang Gabi, devotions, recollections, presacramental catechesis, Santacruzan; labor-related counseling; free medical check-up and services; sports tournament like basketball, chess, dart and volleyball; seminars on financial literacy, leadership, pc assembly, liturgy and journalism.

Activities: Sunday Mass, recollections, seminars, labor-related counseling, basketball league, cultural presentations, bazaar, volunteers new year’s party, Seoul tour, yearly election of officers, Together Day, Rosary Hill, AFC Summer Camp, International Unity Festival and medical mission.

History: MSP's apostolate started in South Korea in 1990 and Fr. Restituto Galang, MSP and Fr. Glenn Giovanni Jaron, MSP. arrived in South Korea and Chayangdong Filipino Catholic Community established in 1992. Chayangdong moved to Hyehwadong in 1997 while the following year Fr. Glenn Giovanni Jaron, MSP became the Chaplain and the Center was moved to Songbukdong in 1999, its present location and in 2007, Fr. Alvin B. Parantar, MSP became the new Chaplain while Edgar T. Balista as new president with 250 volunteers. Activities: Sunday Mass, Simbang Gabi, Pasyon, Christmas Party, Santacruzan, Recollections, Seminars, Medical Mission, Sports for Women and Basketball Conference. Projects: “Hatid Saya, Alay-Kapwa” fund raising Concert, 1994; Alliance of the Two Hearts,1995; Lenten Rituals such as Stations of the Cross were introduced, 2003; Gawad San Lorenzo was launched, 2006; and approval of the Constitution and By-Laws and visit of Gaudencio Cardinal B. Rosales, DD, 2007; Aegis Concert, 2007; G. at Bb. Kalinangang Pilipino, 2008; and Sambayanan newsletter and website Awards: 2005-HFCC was chosen as a recipient of the Presidential Award for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas under the Banaag Category and 2008 Award for supporting the Financial Literacy Program for OFWs from the Philippine Embassy.

Projects: Annyeonghaseyo Newsletter, medical insurance, passporting, travel documents and OWWA membership renewal, Pocheon World Festival for Migrants and Pinoy Song Festival 2008, Donations for victims of typhoon Cosme and flashflood in Ilo-ilo (2008), support 9 affiliated organizations accredited by the Philippine Embassy and Journalism Seminar Workshop conducted by SULYAPINOY editorial staff. Awards: Most Outstanding Community awarded by Pochoen City government during the Pochoen World Migrant Festival which are participated by 8 countries including Korea last October 12, 2008.

Projects: Community Outreach Program on culture; Baby’s Home with the support from association of Superiors of Religious Congregations and St. Vincent Sisters of Suwon; Galilea Migrant Center and Galilean newsletter and website; Support 11 affiliated organizations. Awards: AFC logo was designed by Fr. Eugene Docoy which won the best logo in a competition in Seoul, 1999;Ben Magundayao (Plaque of Appreciation from the Suwon Diocese); AFC dance Troop (1st Prize for Singkil Dance: 1st Bravo Migrant Contest, 2008); and Best Booth during Independence Day Celebration last June 2008.

Human Rights Welfare Organization-Filipino Community

Changhyun Filipino Catholic Community

Bokdae-dong, 25-11 Heungdok-gu,cheongju-si, Cheong chungbuk-do, South Korea

Kyongjin Chongmil, Songsaeng Kongdan Whado-Eup 269-10 Namyang-ju, Kyonggi-do, South Korea

History: HRWOFC was established on Oct. 5, 2006; PresidentAna Marie Adante 2006-2007, Adviser - Ahn Goen-soo, Spiritual Adviser - Rev. Edward Whelan, MM, President - Franklin Caturla with 150 members. Activities: Community Services for the home of the aged in Cheongju City; Cinematheraphy Group Workshop sponsored by Korea Institute of Film Application (KIFA); Basketball League; Christmas Party; Leadership Seminar; Pangkabuhayan (Franchising) Seminar; Raffle Draw- Kapuso Kapamilya sa Korea (KKK) "Taya Mo, Tulong Mo" (Fund for shelter house); Financial assistance to Sulyapinoy, recollection; computer training; assistance and counseling. Projects: Community Services are as follows: for Home of the aged, Cheongju City, South Korea, March 2007; Financial Assistance for Gabay Sa Nakatatanda Association (GANA) Brgy. Bagong Silang, Quezon City, Philippines, Dec.23, 2007; Passporting Activity and Financial Assistance for Sulyapinoy for the continuous printing of the newsletter, Feb. 07 & April 10, 2008; and Food Assistance for the distress migrant workers staying at the shelter House, April 13, 2008. Award: Plaque of Appreciation in support for Gabay Sa Nakatatanda Association (GANA) Brgy. Bagong Silang, Quezon City, Philippines, 2008.

History: Fr. Glenn Jaron established the community in 2001; became a migrant center in 2005; Fr. Salvador "Dong" Marcaida, MSP was the first Chaplain of the community from December 2005 to May 2008. This year the community celebrated its 7th foundation anniversary. The community was used to be called Chonmasan Filipino Catholic Community, named after the Chonmasan Church. But in October 2007, the community transferred their Sunday Mass in Changhyun Church that is why the name became Changhyun Flipino Catholic Community (CFCC). Currently, CFCC Chaplain Fr. Cedric Alimbuyong, MSP, worked with volunteers and community officers headed by its president Angelito Maranan. Activities: Sunday mass, Basic Ecclesial Community; recollection, seminars, laborrelated counseling, Prayer of the Holy Rosary, Evening Mass Mon-Fri, Novena to the Mother of Perpetual Help, Holy Hour, Korean Language Class every Sunday, Summer Outing and House visitation during birthdays. Projects: Free Medical and Dental Check-up at St. Luke’s Clinic, Summer Festival, 100,000KRW financial support to every volunteer who will leave Korea for good, facilitate repatriation process for caught Filipino TnT’s, Bowling and Basketball Tournament, Friendship Games, SAMBAYANIHAN website and Newsletter.

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OUR PARTNER / SPONSORS

President: Vice-President: Secretary: Asst. Secretary: Treasurer: Asst. Treasurer: Auditor: Asst. Auditors:

Franklin U. Caturla Jovito Gregorio Gracelia D. Ramos Winnie Listangco Rofezel C. Esperanza Marino Demaangay Evangeline R. Retuta Charito Solis, Myla G. Sanchez

Public Information Officers: Oswaldo D. Lipata, Moreno D. Esla, Roberto A. David, Melody A. Tumala, May D. Ferrer, Emily Cabaňog

Arnel S. Hebra Hilarion Untalan Jimmy Abella Rey L. Manganaan Federico M. Danela Jr. Floramay Bonifacio Jonathan E. Espiritu Ruben T. Manuel Jun Evangelista Richard C. Somngi

Committees:

Peace Keeping Officers: Roosevelt L. Velayo, Danilo D. Palac, Alerico A. Barrozo, Elmer S. Sarad, Celso Alvaro, Mario D. Pusung, Rueldan P. Manalo, Jessie Santillan, Edelberto Z.Tanghal, Rolly P. Gerona Administrative Adviser: Ana Maria M. Adante

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Legal Adviser: Ahn Geon Soo

Nick Nathan G. Tamondong Randy Hermosura, Annette F. Prudente Roderick Delos Santos Joel Pahate, Christopher J. Guerra

Spiritual Adviser: Rev. Edward Whelan, M.M.

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

Fax #: 723-5781 or 724-0636

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