Sulyapinoy April Issue

OFW-KOREA-2006-001

Volume 2

Issue 6

2009

www.sulyapinoy.org

News Bit: HFCC Basketball Tournament Held

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News Bit: Passport Advisory

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Community: Ansan Basketball Game Kicks Off

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Editorial: All Together Now!

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Labor Updates: EPS Guide Part 1

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‘One Philippines’ Exhibit Schedule

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by Edward A. Castro

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yewhadong - - Labor Day is a celebration of workers' economic and social contributions to the society. However, rather arranging a festivity to commemorate the event, the Philippine Embassy and the Association for Korea-Philippines Administration (AKPA) organized a forum last May 3 at the basement chapel of the Hyewhadong Catholic Church in Seoul. The 4-hour gathering produced constructive and valuable suggestions for enhancing cooperative efforts of both the Philippines and South Korea in combating economic challenges confronting OFWs amidst the worsening global financial crisis.

“Widespread job insecurity, along with a worsening job market, has pushed the foreign workers into a corner. Due to these uncertainties, the foreign workers have confronted with various social problems such as unemployment, conflict, and frustration, etc. These are all presenting a social task the governments of Korea and the Philippines must solve,” Professor Amante concluded. Further, Professor Tae-myung Kim of Hannam University talked about “Cooperation Between the Philippines and Korea to Help Foreign Workers.” Professor Kim said that in this turbulent period, OFWs and other groups of foreign workers has to understand the difficult situation of Korean economy and to agree on the policies and directions of Korean government, and share the ideas that they and the Korean government should try to overcome the crisis together. “Foreign workers who are an integral part of the Korean society, should also suggest good ideas and participate in the Korean economic recovery,” Professor Kim added.

The current global financial crisis has reinforced the need for closer economic ties among the Asian nations, which have been severely hit by massive currency fluctuations set off by debt insolvency in larger economies. In South Korea, the crisis has resulted to low production in many companies. Low production means probable job losses or reduction in work time thus adding burden to migrant According to him, Korea is expected to upgrade the social workers' plight in navigating the economic crunch. safety net, re-structure the labor market based on "flexibility," and divide the labor market to share the working Keynoting the event, Filipino economics and business areas between domestic and foreign workers. These measprofessor Maragtas S.V. Amante of Hanyang University ures will bring changes to the order of labor market, and rein Ansan said that the realities of labor in the global econorganize the interests of related parties. This reform omy invites us to have a deep reflection on the situation, requires a close coordination and fine-tuning among many in relation to the progress and future of humanity. Profeseconomic players such as the enterprises, the groups of sor Amante, who is a former Dean of the School of Labor domestic and foreign workers, the embassies of the each and Industrial Relations of the University of the Philippines country and the Korean government. emphasized that labor is about people and not a commodity to be bought or sold. After the topics are delivered, discussants representing the labor, education, and research sectors delivered their In his keynote speech entitled “The Impact of the Global counter-reactions to the issues. Mr. Rebenson Recaña, Financial Crisis in Korea on Foreign Workers,” Professor Administrative Adviser of the Filipino EPS Workers AssoAmante said that the current economic crisis has been the ciation (FEWA) articulates that because of the crisis, result of institutional flaws in the local and international foreign workers who were able to find new employers have financial systems. He called for reforms that would make become vulnerable to exploitation. Rather than losing their these systems fairer and more effective. employment, workers would take on a job even if they

(turn to page 2)

by Edward A. Castro

Photo by Felix Ferrer

L-R: Professor Tae-myung Kim, Professor Sin-taek Kang, Professor Maragtas S.V. Amante, and Rebenson Recaña discussed labor issues during the Labor Day Forum held at the basement chapel of the Hyewha-dong Catholic Chruch last May 3, 2009.

by Alden Balgos

S

eoul –As part of the celebration of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Korea and the Philippines, the Philippine Embassy spearheaded by the Department of Tourism in Seoul are preparing to showcase a 2-day exhibit on May 30 and 31. Dubbed as “One Philippines” , the plaza in front of the Seoul City Hall will be transformed into a grand, open exhibit area that will showcase the history, culture, tradition, and education, tourism and business environments of the Philippines. Various cultural performances, including performers from the Philippines and lively street dances, will add color to the two-day event. Koreans and Filipinos alike, as well as other foreign residents will have a chance to experience a Philippine fiesta in Seoul. (turn to page 2)

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taewon, Seoul -- “We need to actively take part in enlistment following the passage of the Overseas Absentee shaping the future of our nation by carefully choosing Voting Act in 2003. our leaders. Registration is the first step,” Ambassador The embassy opened the registration on February 1 of this Luis T. Cruz said in his statement to SULYAPINOY. year, coinciding with its special consular services every Ambassador Cruz emphasized the importance of the day, and every first and third Sunday of the month. While a registration process, as it is the key to ensuring that regular field registration is being administered every 2nd Filipinos are able to practice their right to suffrage. It is and 4th Sunday in Hyewha-dong Catholic Church. through elections that Filipinos make a direct and immediate contribution to the growth and development of the Under the overseas absentee voting law, Filipinos overseas can vote for candidates running for national positions country. such as President, Vice President, Senators, and Party List The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) administers Representatives aside from those in the local level. the Overseas Absentee Voting (OAV) enlistment and elections, while the Department of Foreign Affairs’ OAV “We have so far 276 registrants since the registration Secretariat implements them through the embassies and officially started. There are currently more than 50,000 Filipinos in South Korea, approximately consulates worldwide. This registration is the third OAV (turn to page 2)

Artists’ digital perspective on the ‘One Philippines’ Exhibit to be held at the Seoul City Hall Plaza on May 29, 30 and 31, 2009.

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

NEWS Korean, Filipino Professors.. would work beyond normal working hours or days without overtime pay.“Those who decided to become irregular workers have no social protection like health insurance, accident insurance and pension,” Recaña added.

News Bits

The global crisis has weakened the Korean won against the U.S. dollar significantly. This has reduced the peso equivalent of the Filipino workers’ wages in won around 30%. Therefore, the money that Filipino workers send to their families is now 30% lower than what they used to remit.

Ambassador Luis T. Cruz, Labor Attaché Delmer R. Cruz, and Welfare Officer Esperanza C. Cobarrubias likewise graced the event as they read Labor Day congratulatory messages in-behalf of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, DOLE Secretary Marianito D. Roque, and OWWA Administrator Carmelita S. Dimzon respectively. While Fr. Alvin Parantar, MSP of the Hyewhadong Filipino Catholic Community led the invocation, and Sofonias Paragsa, FEWA President, enjoined the participants in the singing of the Philippine national anthem.

“The proposal of Professor Kim for language and technical training for foreign workers is a good idea. However, the Ministry of Labor should coordinate closely with the embassies of the foreign workers or directly with the workers' communities so the MOL would know what training programs are relevant to the workers and what communities must be given more attention,” Recaña concluded.

Also present are Mr. Byoung-sik Park, AKPA President who gave his rather inspiring opening remarks to over 50 participants from different Filipino Communities, and Mr. Dae-hee Lee, President of the Korean Association for Public Administration (KAPA) who gave his congratulatory message to the Filipino Community for its commendable contributions to South Korea for 60 years of bilateral partnership.

Other discussants who were present during the forum are Professor Jung-hyun Park, a visiting professor of the University of Sto. Tomas, Professor Sung-yong Park of the Pyeontek University, and Mr. Kyong-sik Cho, a senior labor and public administration researcher of Yonsei University.

Forum moderator Mr. Sin-taek Kang, an Emeritus Professor of the Seoul University guided the participants during the Question and Answer, whereas Mr. Yong-Chul Kim, also professor from Busan University emceed the ceremony.

RP Embassy Urges OFWs... 9,000 of whom are already in the database as registered voters,” said DFA Vice Consul Arnel Talisayon. “Our goal is to have as many of our kababayan take part on the electoral process,” Talisayon said, but at present, the turnout is still low because of what he called the "last minute mentality" of Pinoys. However, he said he is hoping that the number of OAV registrants will increase because of the long registration period. The embassy also said that they are scheduling other field registration activities so that residents outside Seoul, such as those in Daegu and Busan, will have a chance to register. Recently, the Pyupyong Community Welfare Center in Incheon requested the embassy for field registration.“We also attend to the requests of the Filipino Communities,” Talisayon said. We also enlist help in promoting the registration-SULYAPINOY is a good example of how Filipinos can help encourage their fellows to register,” Talisayon added.

“We coordinate very closely with the Filipino Community. We issued reminders via email, newsletter, radio, website and church announcements. Applicants must be a Filipino citizen. Must make a personal appearance to the registration, present a valid passport or supporting travel documents, and must be 18 years old by May 10, 2010. For dual citizens, applicants must present their true copy of Order of Approval of his application to retain Filipino Citizenship. For seafarers, a copy of their Seaman's Book or other supporting documents are required. Registration will run until August 31, 2009. For inqu ir ie s, you may email [email protected] or call 82-2 7967387~89. The voting period will start April 10, 2010 until 3:00 p.m. Philippine time of May 10, 2010.

DOT Korea to Hold... The highlight of the event will be the "Fiestas Filipinas! Grand Parade," which will go around downtown Seoul, showcasing Philippines' traditional festivals such as the Ati-Atihan, Dinagyang, Sinulog, Kadayawan, Maskara, Panagbenga, and Flores de Mayo. Further, in support to the different Filipino communities performing in the street dance, the National Commission for Culture and Arts (NCAA) sent award-winning artists to train the performers. Some of the groups undergoing rigid trainings are Bride of Jesus Christ, Light of Life, and Cordillera Brotherhood Organization, among others. Tourism Director and Attaché Maricon Basco-Ebron said that “this year is a banner year for both the Philippines and Korea, and the participation of the different Filipino communities in the parade will give the celebration more meaning and flavor.” There will also be Filipino cooking demonstrations along with food stalls selling authentic pinoy dishes, fruits, souvenirs and event memorabilia.

Likewise, Papal Nuncio Osvaldo Padilla will officiate a catholic thanksgiving mass on the noon of 31st to be followed by a program of the Philippine Overseas Labor Office and the Ministry of Labor. The two agencies will give recognition to Korean NGO’s and individuals who are helping migrant workers. The 3-day celebration will feature cultural presentations and performances that includes the Korea Military Band, the National Dance Company of Korea, Fiestas Filipinas Show, and Korea-based Filipino Bands. Also, Filipino recording artist Kris Lawrence and Korean singer Park Sang-min will highlight the musical concert on the evening of 31. The exhibit will be preceded by a fashion show at Lotte Hotel on May 29, featuring a fusion of Philippine and Korean designs. While the Unveiling of the Marker at the UN Memorial Cemetery in Korea (UNMCK) in Busan will be held on May 28.

2 SULYAPINOY APRIL 2009 www.sulyapinoy.org

by Amie Sison

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yehwadong Seoul- The Hyehwadong Filipino Catholic Community (HFCC) holds it’s 12th Annual Basketball Tournament at Seoul Catholic University last April 19, 2009. The new chairperson of the Sports of Committee Michael Panlilo stood as the master of ceremonies. While His Excellency Ambassador Luiz Cruz and Fr. Alvin Parantar M.S.P. shared their inspirational messages to the players of the basketball league. Emily Dicolen-Abagat Ph.D., Chairperson of the HFCC Education Committee led the oath of sportsmanship and asked the teams to sign the Covenant of Sportsmanship. The fourteen teams from different parts of Seoul and nearby cities proudly presented their uniforms and muses. The Best in Uniform and Best Muse was edged by the Mindoro Team. Succeeding games will be held at Bomun-dong High School. Full schedule of the games and teams are available at www.sambayanan.org

Community Correspondence by Billy Vela –AFC

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nsan City, Gyeonggi-do – Amid the brisk weather brought by the spring season, the Ansan Filipino Community held its Annual Basketball Tournament's opening ceremony last April 26, at the Hanyang University gym. Mr. Lim Young-seun, the city's Chief Administrator graced the event and delivered a congratulatory message in behalf of city mayor Park Ju-won, who wasn't able to attend because of other commitments.

“This year, Korea and Philippines is celebrating its 60 years of endearing relationship and I think this tournament is even making our relationship deeper and more meaningful “Mayor Park said. “I hope that this event makes you feel happy and joyful.” He added. To highlight the event, the search for Ms. Summer Girl 2009 was held where nine young and gorgeous muses representing the different teams competed for the title. Muses of FMWAS' Ms. Crisel Esayas and LAHV's Ms. Eileen Villamatter emerged as 2nd runner-up and 1st runner -up respectively. While Venise Dumandan of Ilonggo Volts was hailed as the 2009 Ms. Summer Girl. The 12 competing teams are the following: Guardians, Lemerians, LAHV, GSL, Ilonggo Volts, PhilTrust Travel, FMWAS, Pampanga Brothers, Amianan, Mabuhay Blades, Pangasinan and Mexican Vismin. The basketball tournament will run for 13 weeks. Championship game is tentatively scheduled on July 26, 2009 at Choji High School Gym. The event was hosted by former AFC presidents Billy Vela and Kathlia De Castro.

I

t has come to the Embassy’s attention that some Filipino workers in Korea have used their passports as collaterals for personal loans filed with informal lending institutions in Korea. This practice is strictly prohibited under Philippine laws. The Embassy maybe constrained to report the matter to the Department of Foreign Affairs. A violation of the Passport Law may result to the cancellation of the passport by the Secretary of Foreign Affairs.

EDITORIAL

This

year marks the 60th Year of Bilateral Relations between the Philippines and South Korea. This began on March 3, 1949 when the Philippines became the fifth country to recognize the Republic of Korea. Our countries later became allies in the 1950's during the Korean war when the Philippines answered South Korea's call for help to defend itself from attacks of the North and sent more than 7,000 soldiers of the Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea (PEFTOK). To highlight the momentous event, various activities and festivities in both our countries are planned to celebrate six decades of partnership, raise mutual awareness amongst each other's people, culture, and common history. Though there were times of great challenge during that history, we are now poised to enter into a new era of mutual effort to strengthen our ties. Themed “Nurturing a Meaningful Friendship”, the celebration will reflect the significance of our diplomatic ties with South Korea, and our desire to find new ways to bring greater economic, socio-cultural, and development opportunities to people of both our countries. Although economic interests between our nations tend to garner most of the headlines, labor and migration issues should not be ignored. There are over 60,000 Filipinos in South Korea which comprises students, workers, professionals, missionaries, and spouses of Korean nationals, while South Koreans are our number one tourists, foreign students and retirees. A conservative estimate of 100,000 Koreans live in the Philippines at present. Needless to say, there are pressing issues between the two countries. South Korean President Lee Myung-bak committed to properly respond to the ever growing needs of migrant workers. Likewise, both RP and ROK labor agencies have confirmed that they will continually hold working-level consultations on the improvement of the Employment Permit System (EPS).

However, salient issues such as pre-mature cancellation of contracts, denial of medical and financial benefits, discrimination and basic rights violations, as well as the removal of workers' free food and accommodation are all adding pressure to migrant workers' worsening situation . Further, domestic violence against women married to Korean nationals are on the rise. South Korea is urged to promptly and sincerely address these issues. Korea's multicultural policies focus primarily on those who are residing permanently in Korea, thereby excluding temporary workers. Most Koreans here are not so aware of the differences that exist in various cultures. As the nation is geared toward becoming a multicultural society, the Korean government should open up the education system to introduce as well as broaden students' knowledge of cultural abundance, giving them practical experience in dealing with foreigners early in life. The attitudes of Koreans must change. The Philippine government on the other hand, must provide adequate support to all OFWs through improved social services such as retooling programs in order to remain competitive and enable them to take full advantage of job opportunities and substantial paying jobs; as well as comprehensive reintegration and livelihood services to help retrenched workers and their families withstand the current global financial crunch.

Building in sustainable and reliable policies for foreign investment in the labor, trade and industry sectors, as well as in other areas of importance to Philippines' economic diversification, thus bringing further opportunities for growth. A framework for cooperation that is broader than bilateral relations is necessary to tackle the issues. In the midst of world financial and economic crisis, it is with hope that the leaders of both our countries will make all possible efforts to enhance cooperation.

With the maturity of our bilateral ties, both our countries can afford to be frank and honest with one another in terms of improving our relations, and continue to engage in productive talks on issues that affects our relationship. Transparency and uncompromising on laws and regulations governing peopleto-people exchange would send positive signals to other potential partners in both our countries.

Both our countries have come too far in building our diplomatic foundation based on reciprocity of mutual interests. Yet, there is much work to be done. The road has been laid for the future of RP-ROK relations to include economic growth, prosperity and opportunities for both our people. Despite of the global economic crisis, we are all optimistic that the future is bright -bright for the Philippines, bright for Korea.

EDITORIAL STAFF Editor-in-Chief: Edward A. Castro Opinion Editor: Rebenson B. Recaña Literary Editor: Amie Sison Photojournalist: Felix S. Ferrer

BOARD OF PUBLICATION

Managing Editor: Alden C. Balgos News Editor: Edward A. Castro Cartoonist: Alden C. Balgos Layout Artist: ßLЏħΣ

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) Contributor/s: Joan Romero (Literary), the Philippine Embassy Adviser: Ma. Regina P. Arquiza Editorial Consultant: Elizer M. Peñaranda

Chairman: Rebenson B. Recaña V-Chairman: Marcelino M. Serdeña 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

SULYAPINOY Office Address: 115-9 Songbuk-gu, Songbuk 1 dong, Songbuk Villa, Seoul, Korea 136-020 FEWA Office Address & SULYAPINOY Distribution Center: Inside WOORI BANK, Hyehwa-dong Branch, Jongno-gu, Seoul

D I S C L A I M E R Different opinions are encourage to stimulate member input and involvement. 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.

For Comments, Suggestions, Contributions & Advertisements Please submit them to our website or to the following emails below: All Staff: [email protected] or [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 and community correspondents. Interested may email the Editorial Staff for more details.

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

SULYAPINOY APRIL 2009

3

EPS WORKERS GUIDE - PART 1

The

Employment Permit System for foreign workers enables workers from countries with which the Korean government has concluded an MOU on sending workers to be legally employed by companies in Korea which have obtained a permit to employ foreign workers.

2. Restrictions on changing workplaces - A foreign worker must work at the workplace where he/ she has concluded an employment contract with. The worker must not leave the workplace to work with a different employer without justifiable reason/s.

Inbox Dear SULYAPINOY,

- Changing workplace is allowed only through the district Job Center of the MOL in exceptional cases where the current employment relations cannot be continued due to reasons such as: A. In the event the employer terminates the employment contract under justifiable cause or refuses to renew it; B. In the event a foreign worker cannot continue to work due to the suspension of business, closure or other reasons in which the worker is not responsible. C. In the event an employer is restricted from hiring foreign workers or permit has been cancelled due to violation of labor rights such as physical assault, delayed payment of wages and deteriorating working conditions; or D. In the event a foreign worker is not fit to continue to work due to an injury but is able to work at another workplace and other events.

Magandang araw po. Nais ko pong iparating sa inyo na kaming mga Pilipino dito sa Gimpo ay labis na natutuwa at nasisiyahan sa mga tulong na naidudulot ng pahayagang ito.

Matters to be observed when changing workplaces - Foreign workers may not be accompanied by any members of their family while they are employed in A. Changing workplaces may be permitted only within Korea. the allowed scope business type. ManufacturingManufacturing, Agriculture-Agriculture, etc. HowMatters to be observed by Foreign Workers ever, those who work in manufacturing who are forced to change workplace due to unforeseen Before being placed in workplace after entry to Korea circumstances (e.g. employer declared bankruptcy) and wish to get a job in agricultural, livestock, 1. Completing employment training designed for construction, fisheries will be allowed to do so. foreign workers. B. A foreign worker shall be reported to the Immigra- A foreign worker must go to a designated employment tion Office as an illegal resident and will be repatritraining institute upon his/her entry to Korea and comated Immediately is he/she: plete an employment training course. - Fails to apply for a change (job application) at the district Job Center within one month after terminations of -Employment training will last 20 hours or more his/her previous employment contract; (between 3 nights 4 days) and will cover the general understanding about Korea, related laws, and basic - Leaves his/her workplace without permission from the knowledge essential to their employment. employer;

Ang tanong ko po: May posibilidad ba na maaring ma-hold o di kaya ay ma-cancel ang aking rehire dahil sa laganap na unemployment dito lalong-lalo na sa mga koreano? Napanood ko po kasi sa news na mas bibigyan ng priority ng Korean government ang mga unemployed koreans na mabigyan ng trabaho.

Legal Status of Foreign Workers Foreign workers employed by companies in Korea under the EPS enjoy legal employment status (sojourn status: E-9) and are thus protected just as Koreans are under the Labor Standards Act and other labor laws. - Foreign workers are required to join the Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance, National Health Insurance, and National Pension, and are eligible to receive benefits from such systems. - It is illegal for employers to discriminate against foreign workers by, for example, violating employment contracts or dismissing them without justifiable cause. At the same time, foreign workers must abide by all Korean laws related to their employment and actions and will face punishment for any violation of the law. - Foreign workers may work in Korea for up to three years. At the expiry of their sojourn period , they must leave Korea.

2. Medical Checkup - A foreign worker is required to undergo a medical checkup during the employment training period. A foreign worker who fails to pass the initial checkup will receive a second checkup which is more rigorous than the first one. The foreign worker must depart Korea if the results of the second checkup confirms abnormalities.

- Attempts to change workplace by intentionally neglecting his/her duties in order to move to another workplace where wages may be higher;

3. Joining Insurances - A foreign worker must join the Casualty Insurance and the Return Cost Insurance within 15 and 80 days respectively, from the effective date of the employment contract. Workers are, in theory, supposed to sign the insurance agreement during the employment training period.

- Finds a job him/herself or through friends, co-workers and private job placement agencies, instead of through the Job Center.

- Fails to find a job within 2 months from the time the application for a change of workplace is filed and thus, has not been able to receive a new permit; or

In principle, changing workplace shall be restricted to a total of three times. But in the event the three changes were made due to grounds solely accountable to the employer, an additional may be allowed.

Casualty Insurance - is an insurance for death or disability of a foreign worker other than occupational accidents. - Renewal of labor contract and extension of sojourn period. Return Cost Insurance - this insurance is designed to build up savings to cover ‘going-home’ expenses (air - A foreign worker shall renew his/her labor contract with fare) of a foreign worker. The insurance premium will be the employer every year during the period of employdeposited automatically to the insurance company from ment. When the worker has renewed the labor contract, his/her bank account within 80 days after the entry. The he/she must obtain a permit to extend the sojourn period bank account will be opened during the employment from the Immigration Office with jurisdiction over the training in Korea. workplace. During the period of employment

4.

1. Foreign Registration (within 90 days) - A foreign worker placed at a workplace is required to apply within 90 days and receive a foreigner registration at an immigration office or a branch office with jurisdiction of the region in which the worker resides . A foreigner registration form, passport, two photos, and a service charge is imposed during the application.

4 SULYAPINOY APRIL 2009

Employment period is only limited to 3 years, accompanying family members are not allowed, and timely departure is required. - The allowable period of stay of work in Korea is only to a maximum of 3 years. After the lapse of 3 years, a worker must immediately leave Korea. A foreign worker is not allowed to be accompanied by a family member during employment period. ( TO BE CONTINUED)

www.sulyapinoy.org

Ako po ay isang EPS worker at malapit nang magtapos ang sojourn period nitong darating na June 2009. Ang magandang balita naman po ay mabibigyan ako ng rehire ng aking among koreano. Subalit ako po ay nangangamba. Sa kasalukuyan ay dumaranas hindi lamang ang South Korea ng economic crisis kundi halos sa lahat ng dako ng mundo. Ang masaklap na resulta nito ay ang lumalaking unemployment lalong-lalo na dito sa Korea.

Mike, 32 Gimpo City Kabayang Mike, Natutuwa din kami sa mainit na pagtanggap at patuloy na pagsuporta n’yo sa SULYAPINOY. Umasa kayo na patuloy naming gagawin lahat ng aming makakaya upang patuloy kaming makapaghatid sa inyo ng mga balitang kapakipakinabang lalong-lalo na para sa mga kababayan nating mga manggagawa dito sa Korea. Despite of the increasing unemployment, hindi po basta-bastang ma-cancel o ma-hold ang inyong re-employment o rehire. Sa kasalukuyan ay wala pa pong panukala o advisory na katulad nito na galing sa Ministry of Labor o ng Ministry of Justice, o ng Philippine Embassy dito sa Korea. Siguraduhin mo lamang kabayan na bago ka umuwi ay dala-dala mo ang iyong re-employment certificate na manggagaling sa Ministry of Labor at ang iyong Certificate of Confirmation of Visa Issuance o CCVI. Umaasa kami na naliwanagan po naming kayo hinggil sa usaping ito. Ipagpatuloy po nyo sana ang pag-suporta sa SULYAPINOY diyan sa Gimpo. Sa mga nais mo pong magtanong o humingi ng opinion hinggil sa mga usapin tungkol sa EPS, ipadala lamang ang mga ito sa SULYAPINOY. Send your inquiries at:

[email protected] Or visit our website www.sulyapinoy.org MARAMING SALAMAT PO! SULYAPINOY

LITERARY Ngayon at Nakaraan by Amie Sison

by Joan Romero

Sa bansang ating ngayong pinaglilingkuran Naalala ko ang ating mga nakaraan Mga sundalo na handang nakipaglaban Para sa inaasam na kanilang kalayaan. Dati pa lamang ay nagsakripisyo na Nagtiis malayo sa kanilang pamilya Di inalintana ang hirap na madarama Dedikasyon ang namayani sa bawat isa. Pagmamahal sa kapit bansa sa Asya Pagkakaibigan kay gandang biyaya Makasaysayang taon na tila kay saya Anumang hadlang ay makakaya. Ekonomiya ng Korea ay sadyang umunlad Dahil sa mga manggagawa na ma-abilidad Maasahan sa tuwina at hindi maihahalintulad Sa trabaho, ang lakas ay kumpleto at isasagad. Mga gurong Pilipino higit pa sa banyaga Hindi rin mag papatalo sa pag-aalaga Nagbubuklod sa kaalaman at pag aruga Sistemang Pilipino lamang ang makakagawa. Maliit man ang bilang natin dito Ang mahalaga ay nagkakasundo tayo Upang maipakita sa bansang Koreano Iba ang tayong mga Pinoy sa buong mundo.

I finally Understand An Essay by ßLЏħΣ

No matter how one may try to configure it, we all have parents. Two of them. One male. One female. Call them Mom and Dad, Ma and Pa, Nanay and Tatay, or whatever term you may use. But no matter how the nicknames are sliced and diced - they're still our parents. Fortunately for me, mine are both still alive and kicking. And I'm glad for that since so many of us have already lost one or both of our parents especially by the time one reaches the age of this writer, which is now of the middle-age baby boomer realm. I'm going through a life situation that is at times stressing and trying, but that's life. And because of this I've been in more constant contact with my parents for the last couple of years now. And like clockwork, when I call home to the Philippines, they're both inevitably on the phone conversing with me about 'how I'm doing.' I'm thinking that perhaps my mind was telling me that my parents and my relationship with both of them is not something to be overlooked or taken for granted. I realized that I've had almost three-decade long relationship with my parents and we've all matured and grown up throughout that time. Our needs, wants, desires, expectations, demands, and lives have all changed significantly throughout that time. Especially considering my aging into my own parenthood and them entering their own grandparenthood more than five years ago through the birth of my daughter. Parents are the role models we have when we grow up. Birth parents, foster parents, step parents, grand parents. All adult figures that are involved in our lives throughout our development over time are the persons that we model ourselves after whether we're aware of it or not. In some cases we make good choices who we model after and in some cases we make not so good choices, or in fact aren't even given a choice whatsoever.

But throughout the years of growth and my maturity and personal entry into adulthood alongside my parents, I too learned that a parent is a human being. And that is what makes this perfect relationship so imperfect.

Tanda ng Pasasalamat MOTHER'S DAY TRIBUTE TO Ms. Nida Romero

Sa kanyang sinapupunan ako ay nabuo Sa kanyang kanlungan unti-unting natuto Walang ibang may kakayahan nito Kung ‘di ang aking ina na nag-iisa sa mundo. Ang bawat araw ay may kalakip na problema Ang sumubok sa aming mag-ina Ngunit hindi namin ito inalintana Bagkus pinagtibay pa ang aming paniniwala. Sa kabila ng aming pinagdadaanan Hindi ko siya nakitang umiyak ni minsan Kaya ang pangako ko, siya ay paiiyakin Sa galak at hindi sa suliranin. Noon, taunang medalya ang aking alay Sa kanyang sakripisyo sa aking buhay Ngayon, isang bago at simpleng bahay Tanda ng pasasalamat aking ibibigay. Doon, sa aking nalalapit na pag-uwi Ay gagampanan pagiging anak kong muli Pupunan ang mga nawalay na sandali At ipagpapatuloy hanggang sa dulo ng bahaghari.

There was a time that I was very angry at my parents for the choices and decisions they made and forced upon me through my existence into their lives and having to co-habit the same household with the rest of my family. After all, these weren't choices that I had any say in since I was a child, so I did have my compelling reasons for being angry at them. Or so I thought. But what turned everything around for me was my realization that my parents may have been the imperfect set of parents to me but that is no reason to hold the relationship they tried to carve out with me against them. They, like all of us, myself as a parent included, do our best when we become parents. My parents did what they did because they honestly believed it was best for me and my future. I know this unwaveringly and unequivocally because I'm doing the same with my young child. Are many of my current parenting decisions anywhere near close to what my parents chose for me in certain areas? Not by a long shot. You see, parents love their children no matter what the parent is forced to do in the best interest of the child. I know this for a fact now that I have relationships of this type. There is a special bond that is forged when a human being comes into relationship with a child. A bond that is not even taken away by death as this bond lives on in the child, no matter how old that child becomes. So what am I pointing here? I love my parents. I know my parents love me. We don't agree on everything because we are human, because we are separate beings on this planet. But we still have this relationship that has been forged and strengthened over time into a solid loving, caring, and thought-filled tie that, not even time will break. I love you Ma. I love you Pa. I can say that I appreciate everything that you have brought into my life. Yes, everything. The so-called good. And the so-called bad. Why? Because my life is the way it is because of the way it was. For a time this included when I was under your care but nevertheless this contributed to resulting in me becoming who I am now. And even though I may have struggles with my personal journey along this path I still understand that the two of you were the beginning

of that journey and you started carving it out before I was even born into your arms. I am a parent now too. And I understand that I'm am going to be the parent to whom someday my children will be holding my proverbial 'feet to the fire', regardless of the decisions I make or don't make about their wellbeing. I may have the best intentions for them at all times and only want the best outcomes for all of them as they grow into adulthood but that still won't negate the fact that they won't be holding those choices and decisions against me someday when they realize that my choices at times conflicted with their own desires as humans. But I can only hope that I am able to stick around here long enough, like the two of you have so that they are able to grow into adulthood enough and to see that I too was an imperfect human being, that I only wanted what was best for them and that I did the best I could with what I was given. Hopefully they too will understand that this is not an excuse, just the truth. I just hope that one day, as a parent, I am able to be given the same understanding from my children that I was able to give to you for a fair number of years now. Thank you for 'sticking around' as long as you have. Thank you for staying together as a parental unit as long as you have. Thank you for being my parents and for the existence you brought me into. Thank you for making me into the person that I have become, and even those times I tried to forget about it. Why? Because it's all good regardless, and I finally understand. Thank you Ma. Thank you Pa. I miss you and I love you both.

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SULYAPINOY APRIL 2009

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SARI-SARI PROGRAM OF ACTIVITIES ONE PHILIPPINES EXHIBIT 60th Year Philippines-Korea Bilateral Relations May 29-31, 2009 at Seoul City Hall Oval

TIME May 29, 2009 (Friday) 14:00 ~ 22:00 15:00

ACTIVITY Soft Opening of ’One Philippines’ Exhibit Unveiling of the Photo Exhibit of the Expeditionary Force to Korea during the War

May 30, 2009 (Saturday) 09:00 ~ 22:00

VENUE City Hall Oval City Hall Oval

Opening of Exhibition Grounds City Hall Oval "One Philippines Exhibition" 10:00-11:00 Fiestas Filipinas Grand Parade City Hall Oval 10:30 ~ 11:00 Musical Overture: City Hall Oval Korea Military Band 11:00-11:30 Opening Ceremony ‘One Philippines,’ City Hall Oval 60th Year RP-ROK Bilateral Relations, and 111th Philippine National Day Celebration 15:00-16:00 Fiestas Filipinas Grand Parade (Route: City Hall Oval- Cheonggyecheon- Gwangkyo- Euiljiro il-ga- City Hall Oval) 19:00-21:00 Cultural Presentations: Seoul City Hall Stage - Fiestas Filipinas Show - National Dance Company of Korea May 31, 2009 (Sunday) 09:00 Opening of the ’One Philippines’ Exhibit City Hall Oval 09:00 ~ 09:30 Fiestas Filipinas Grand Parade Musical Overture: Korea Military Band 10:30 Welcome Ceremony for Dignitaries City Hall Oval 11:-12:00 Catholic Thanksgiving Mass City Hall Oval H.E. Papal Nuncio Osvaldo Padilla 14:00-15:00 Fiestas Filipinas Grand Parade City Hall Oval 15:00-16:00 Program: POLO and MOL City Hall Oval Recognition Ceremonies 16:00-18:30 Musical Concert: Filipino Bands City Hall Stage 18:30-20:00 Hymns of Home and Harmony: City Hall Stage The ‘One Philippines’ Concert Feat. Kris Lawrence of the Philippines and Park Sang Min of Korea

Instructions: 1) Fill the white squares with numbers 1 to 9 so that they add up to the sums shown in highlighted squares (blue color). 2) A blue 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. Phone-in your answer to 010-9294-4365 or email @ [email protected]

Answer Here

by Alden Balgos

Answer to Vol. 2 ~ Issue 5

2-Emilio V. Salina 5- Ireneo Galindo 6– Roberto Ejes 7– Edwin Ambata 8– Angelito Sinnong Angelito Binas 9– Marilou Casuga 12– Arnelio Saliva

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16– Romeo Faltado 17– Keneth Pacana 20– Nomar Andrada 23– Edwin Domingo 29– Ismael Calandria Anaceto Ambi Ariel Dante Libarnes Roderick Relojas

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DONORS / SPONSORS Republic of the Philippines DEPARTMENT OF LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT OVERSEAS WORKERS WELFARE ADMINISTRATION

ALL DISPLACED OVERSEAS FILIPINO WORKERS DUE TO THE GLOBAL FINANCIAL CRISIS:

Learn more about the government’s PACKAGE OF ASSISTANCE AND SERVICES Contact the following: OVERSEAS WORKERS WELFARE ADMINISTRATION

24/7 OPERATIONS CENTER Manila, Philippines

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Amie Sison ~ 50,000won Anonymous ~ 30,000 Our Sponsors SEIL TOUR Money Gram Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) “Blessed are those who 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)

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FOR INTERNATIONAL DIRECT DIALING (IDD): Country code (63) area code (02) phone number Ex. 632-8336992 You may also contact POLO-OWWA Jin Seong Bldg., 34-44, Itaewon 1-dong, Yongsan-Ku, Seoul 140-201, South Korea Tel.Nos:(822) 3785-3634 and (822) 3785-3635 Email: [email protected]

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Fax #: 723-5781 or 724-0636

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 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

TAYO BA’Y PATULOY NA LAMANG MAG BUBULAG-BULAGAN? MAGBINGI-BINGIHAN? O MANAHIMIK NA LANG? ITAGUYOD ANG KARAPATAN AT KAPAKANAN NG MANGGAGAWANG PILIPINO DITO SA KOREA!

HELP US TO HELP YOU

SPONSOR US NOW! www.sulyapinoy.org

SULYAPINOY APRIL 2009

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