The arrest, made at the St Marys train station, came minutes after the fire broke out.

The attending fire brigade was able to put out the fire immediately, thus preventing the fire from spreading to the adjacent St Marys Hotel. The fire however left No. 45 Queens Street totally destroyed. Police have placed property damages to hundreds of thousands.

There were no casualties or injuries as a result of the fire.

Domingo is the owner of Edwin’s Hair & Beauty Saloon where the fire started.

According to St Marys police, Domingo was seen removing property from the beauty saloon around 3:20am yesterday. Shortly afterwards, the fire started in the premises.

When interviewed at the Penrith Police Station where he was taken after his arrest, Domingo made full admission to setting the fire with clothing materials.

He appeared yesterday also at the Penrith local court charged with malicious damage by fire.

Domingo is out on bail, and is due to appear at the Penrith court in a fortnight.

No. 45 Queens Street, St Marys // Photo: The Filipino Australian

Lifestart coordinators Kirrily McNamara and Deborah Emalhain acknowledging book donations from INC Giving Project team members.

The books were handed over yesterday morning by INCGiving Project members to Lifestart Marketing Co-ordinator Kirrily McNamara and Lifestart Nepean branch manager Deborah Emalhain.

“We are overwhelmed with your kindness and generosity,” said McNamara to the INCGiving group members, adding that the books will go a long way in building up the library of Lifestart’s St Marys and other playgroup centres.

Lifestart is a charitable organisation which provides early childhood intervention and school aged services to children with additional needs including Down syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder, global developmental delay and rare genetic disorders.

The organisation has seven playgroup centres in Metropolitan Sydney and currently serves 750 children.

INCGiving Project team members with Lifestart teachers

The donor, INCGiving, is a worldwide project of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) – Church of Christ launched in 2011 as part of its community partnering services.

Last year, Iglesia Ni Cristo inaugurated its INCGiving projects in Australia with free community services held in various parts of the country through its Neighbourhood Appreciation Day, Singing for a Cause (Grandparents Day), and Teachers Appreciation Day events.

INCGiving Project coordinator in Australia Glenn David said that yesterday’s book donation is the first of a series of INCGiving’s book drives in Australia.

“Our congregations in Metro Sydney and other Australian metropolitan centres will also conduct similar book drives to help local libraries and community- and family-focused organisations,” David added.

When I celebrated our first Christmas and New Year, I felt so lost and shocked missing the company of my friends and family. But through a company’s sponsorship, we were granted citizenship in less than four years; so I thought maybe it’s fated. It wasn’t hard to adapt to Western life as, through my Dad, I have been exposed to it at an early age. Half of my life was nurtured under the Australian way of living.

But as years progress and I get more acquainted to Filipinos, I realized just how much stuck people are in their old ways that I felt we (my friends and I) were from a parallel universe.

I guess we were different; as other kids play “tumbang preso”, the gang were either too occupied with karaoke, playing the Atari’s “Space Invaders”, our favorite game & watch “Chef”, the badminton or the most popular pc game of “Family Feud” in the 80′s. Or we were busy with reading books, passing on our slum books or dragging the whole “barkada” to Greenhills for driving lessons or shopping.

I expected that the Filipinos here would be more advanced in thinking; unchained from the old habits their parents inherited a long time ago and who now embraces the Australian thinking of being logical and realistic.

It’s Australia Day and as we call this land of opportunity our home, I think it’s about time to get on with it and breed a new generation of Australian-Filipinos who’s evolved from some primitive habits and thinking.

Here are the Top 6 things so un-Australian that are screaming “change!”:

1. Jumping queues – must I really explain?

2. Favoritism – why do we keep getting the same people in various events even though they don’t deserve to be there?

3. Choosing Godparents – aren’t godparents spiritual guardians? So why do people choose base on their status or financial ability, or call them “sponsors”?

4. Being on time – my Dad used to say (Dad was notorious, if you’re 1 minute late, he’s gone.) “What makes your time more important than mine?”

5. Crab-mentality – why can’t people accept that each one has a purpose? A writer writes and a carpenter builds; no one is the same hence each one is special.

6. Gossiping – social passing of info is OK, people are wired to be social but to be judgmental, malicious and critical is darker side of it. Didn’t Elvis Presley once quote, “Don’t criticize what you don’t understand, son. You never walked in that man’s shoes”?

We need to break away from these old thinking and allow ourselves to grow so we can mentor our kids to have liberal thinking and influence them positively.

That’s the Australian way!

It was a cold but sunny day of October back in 1998 when I first landed in Sydney. At that time, I wasn’t ready to come here as I was enjoying my life back in the Philippines.

When I celebrated our first Christmas and New Year, I felt so lost and shocked missing the company of my friends and family. But through a company’s sponsorship, we were granted citizenship in less than four years; so I thought maybe it’s fated. It wasn’t hard to adapt to Western life as, through my Dad, I have been exposed to it at an early age. Half of my life was nurtured under the Australian way of living.

But as years progress and I get more acquainted to Filipinos, I realized just how much stuck people are in their old ways that I felt we (my friends and I) were from a parallel universe.

I guess we were different; as other kids play “tumbang preso”, the gang were either too occupied with karaoke, playing the Atari’s “Space Invaders”, our favorite game & watch “Chef”, the badminton or the most popular pc game of “Family Feud” in the 80′s. Or we were busy with reading books, passing on our slum books or dragging the whole “barkada” to Greenhills for driving lessons or shopping.

I expected that the Filipinos here would be more advanced in thinking; unchained from the old habits their parents inherited a long time ago and who now embraces the Australian thinking of being logical and realistic.

It’s Australia Day and as we call this land of opportunity our home, I think it’s about time to get on with it and breed a new generation of Australian-Filipinos who’s evolved from some primitive habits and thinking.

Here are the Top 6 things so un-Australian that are screaming “change!”:

1. Jumping queues – must I really explain?

2. Favoritism – why do we keep getting the same people in various events even though they don’t deserve to be there?

3. Choosing Godparents – aren’t godparents spiritual guardians? So why do people choose base on their status or financial ability, or call them “sponsors”?

4. Being on time – my Dad used to say (Dad was notorious, if you’re 1 minute late, he’s gone.) “What makes your time more important than mine?”

5. Crab-mentality – why can’t people accept that each one has a purpose? A writer writes and a carpenter builds; no one is the same hence each one is special.

6. Gossiping – social passing of info is OK, people are wired to be social but to be judgmental, malicious and critical is darker side of it. Didn’t Elvis Presley once quote, “Don’t criticize what you don’t understand, son. You never walked in that man’s shoes”?

We need to break away from these old thinking and allow ourselves to grow so we can mentor our kids to have liberal thinking and influence them positively.

That’s the Australian way!

It is eagerly watched by most as the plot unfolds, characters appear showing their true colours. Ubiquity communication makes it possible for the audience to be entertained. Opinions vary as that this impeachment has turned into a trial by publicity biggest entertainment to judge the mettle of prosecutors against the high powered defense team of lawyers.

Overseas and local electronic and print media have set up locations of vantage points in reporting to the world covering the impeachment proceedings.

A battery of well known litigation lawyers said to be the best in the country led by retired Supreme Court Justice Serafin Cuevas compose the defense team. In the group are: former Ateneo College of Law dean Eduardo de los Angeles, former Court of Appeals Justice Hector Hofilena, former Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Manila Law dean Jose Roy III, lawyers Ramon Esguerra, Jacinto Jimenez, German Lichauco II, Dennis Manalo, Karen Jimeno, Noel Bodagon, Noel Lazaro and Tranquil Salvador III.

The prosecution is headed by Representative Neil Tupas Jr., Rep. Rodolfo C. Farinas, Rep. Arlene J. Bag-ao, Rep. Reynaldo V. Umali, Rep. Raul Daza, Rep. Marlyn L. Premicias Agabas, Rep. Neri J. Colmenares, Rep. Giorgili B. Aggabao, Rep. Sherwin Tugna and 57 private prosecutors.

Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile is the presiding officer and all Senators are the jurors.

As I write, three days of trial hearing have gone and here are some scenarios of day to day happenings:

Day 1 – Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile, presiding court juror has this to remind his colleague senators: “As jurors it is our obligation and responsibility to closely and diligently examine the evidence and facts to be presented before us — while the impeachment process was more political than judicial in nature, it was not a licence for any of the senator judges to ignore and abandon their obligation to see to it that the Bill of Rights was observed and that justice was served — to conduct the trial with impartiality and fairness, to hear the case with a clear and open mind, to weigh carefully in the scale of evidence against the respondent and to render to him a just verdict.”

Enrile rejected the defense motion to alleged constitutional defects of the complaints for failure to allow the requirement of verification.

Day 2 – Prosecution team admitted not prepared to tackle Article 1. They were ready for Article 2 and all they could provide were computer generated copies of the alleged 45 properties. Lead prosecutor Rep Neil Tupas attempted to question Senate President Enrile who earlier dismissed the petition to subpoena Corona and family for reasons of protecting the accused from self-incrimination, marriage and parents and filial affinity show the poor quality in presenting evidence. The Senate President ruled as “moot and academic” to the defense motion not to allow private prosecutors.

Day 3- CJ Corona Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Networth produced to the senate impeachment hearing by the Supreme Court Clerk of Court. Interesting to note that Senate President Enrile made a warning that the prosecutors first witness should not be subjected to cross-examination by them unless the witness is a hostile one. Private prosecutor Mario Bautista was reminded several times by the Senate presiding officer. The amateurish fumbling by the prosecutors became a source of entertainment.

To his credit Senate President Enrile is holding court in accordance with the rules.

The days to follow would unravel more fun as the hearing continues. Each side will demolish each other in the legal battle. Expect more fun. It is not only Corona on trial but the senators and prosecutors as well are being judged for their performance. One wonders if the 188 congressmen who signed the impeachment complaints have also filed their SALN.

CJ Corona is the first Chief Justice to be impeached for graft and corruption, culpable violation of the constitution and betrayal of public trust. In 2003, the Supreme Court dismissed the impeachment resolution against then Chief Justice Hilario Davide for reasons of being unconstitutional.

Other officials impeached are Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez in 2011 who resigned, former President Joseph Estrada in 2000 where the trial was aborted, former President Elpidio Quirino in 1949 where the complaint was rejected, former President Diosdado Macapagal in 1964 where complaints were dismissed, former President Ferdinand Marcos in 1985 where complaints dismissed, and former President Corazon Aquino in 1988 where charges were rejected.

In the current impeachment proceedings being heard by the Senate, there are eight Articles of Impeachment signed by 188 Congressmen. The 1987 Constitution provides that 1/3 of the House members are required to impeach.

1. Partiality and subservience in cases involving the Arroyo administration from the time of his appointment as Supreme Court Associate Justice up to his dubious midnight appointment as Chief Justice and up to the present.

2. Failure to disclose to the public his statement of assets, liabilities, and net worth as required under Section 17 Article XI of the Constitution.

3. Failure to meet and observe the stringent standards under the Constitution that provided that a member of the judiciary must be a person of proven competence, integrity, probity and independence in allowing the Supreme Court to act on mere letters filed by a counsel which caused the issuance of flip-flopping decisions in final and executor cases in creating an excessive entanglement with Mrs. Arroyo through her appointment with his wife to office and in discussing with litigants cases pending in the Supreme Court .

4. Blatantly disregarding the principle of separation of powers by issuing a status quo ante order against the House of Representatives in the case concerning the impeachment of then Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez.

5. Wanton arbitrariness and partiality in consistently disregarding the principle of res judicata or resurrecting decided cases, and in deciding in favour of gerrymandering in the cases involving in the 16 newly created cities and the promotion of Dinagat Island into a province.

6. Arrogating unto himself and to a committee he created the authority and jurisdiction to improperly investigate an alleged erring member of the Supreme Court for the purpose of exculpating him. Such authority and jurisdiction are properly reposed by the Constitution in the House of Representatives via impeachment.

7. Partiality in granting a temporary restraining order in favour of Arroyo and her husband Jose Miguel Arroyo in order to give them an opportunity to escape prosecution and frustrate the ends of justice, and in distorting the Supreme Court decision on the effectivity of the TRO in view of a clear failure to comply with the conditions of the Supreme Court’s own TRO.

8. Failure and refusal to account for the Judiciary Development Fund and Special Allowance for the Judiciary collections.

Impeachment originated in England and is described as a ‘decisive weapon in political warfare and an inherent function of any representative legislature.’ To impeach is to accuse a public official or challenge the credibility before an appropriate tribunal for misconduct in office. Impeachment in the USA follows the British pattern.

Philippine impeachment differs from the USA in the percentage needed to impeach and the numerical limit.

ABANGAN ANG SUSUNOD NA KARUGTONG! WATCH FOR THE NEXT EPISODE.

Impeaching the Chief Justice Renato Corona for graft and corruption, culpable violation of the constitution and betrayal of public trust which now is dubbed as ‘coronavela’ is more fun as it has the trappings of a blockbuster series.

It is eagerly watched by most as the plot unfolds, characters appear showing their true colours. Ubiquity communication makes it possible for the audience to be entertained. Opinions vary as that this impeachment has turned into a trial by publicity biggest entertainment to judge the mettle of prosecutors against the high powered defense team of lawyers.

Overseas and local electronic and print media have set up locations of vantage points in reporting to the world covering the impeachment proceedings.

A battery of well known litigation lawyers said to be the best in the country led by retired Supreme Court Justice Serafin Cuevas compose the defense team. In the group are: former Ateneo College of Law dean Eduardo de los Angeles, former Court of Appeals Justice Hector Hofilena, former Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Manila Law dean Jose Roy III, lawyers Ramon Esguerra, Jacinto Jimenez, German Lichauco II, Dennis Manalo, Karen Jimeno, Noel Bodagon, Noel Lazaro and Tranquil Salvador III.

The prosecution is headed by Representative Neil Tupas Jr., Rep. Rodolfo C. Farinas, Rep. Arlene J. Bag-ao, Rep. Reynaldo V. Umali, Rep. Raul Daza, Rep. Marlyn L. Premicias Agabas, Rep. Neri J. Colmenares, Rep. Giorgili B. Aggabao, Rep. Sherwin Tugna and 57 private prosecutors.

Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile is the presiding officer and all Senators are the jurors.

As I write, three days of trial hearing have gone and here are some scenarios of day to day happenings:

Day 1 – Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile, presiding court juror has this to remind his colleague senators: “As jurors it is our obligation and responsibility to closely and diligently examine the evidence and facts to be presented before us — while the impeachment process was more political than judicial in nature, it was not a licence for any of the senator judges to ignore and abandon their obligation to see to it that the Bill of Rights was observed and that justice was served — to conduct the trial with impartiality and fairness, to hear the case with a clear and open mind, to weigh carefully in the scale of evidence against the respondent and to render to him a just verdict.”

Enrile rejected the defense motion to alleged constitutional defects of the complaints for failure to allow the requirement of verification.

Day 2 – Prosecution team admitted not prepared to tackle Article 1. They were ready for Article 2 and all they could provide were computer generated copies of the alleged 45 properties. Lead prosecutor Rep Neil Tupas attempted to question Senate President Enrile who earlier dismissed the petition to subpoena Corona and family for reasons of protecting the accused from self-incrimination, marriage and parents and filial affinity show the poor quality in presenting evidence. The Senate President ruled as “moot and academic” to the defense motion not to allow private prosecutors.

Day 3- CJ Corona Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Networth produced to the senate impeachment hearing by the Supreme Court Clerk of Court. Interesting to note that Senate President Enrile made a warning that the prosecutors first witness should not be subjected to cross-examination by them unless the witness is a hostile one. Private prosecutor Mario Bautista was reminded several times by the Senate presiding officer. The amateurish fumbling by the prosecutors became a source of entertainment.

To his credit Senate President Enrile is holding court in accordance with the rules.

The days to follow would unravel more fun as the hearing continues. Each side will demolish each other in the legal battle. Expect more fun. It is not only Corona on trial but the senators and prosecutors as well are being judged for their performance. One wonders if the 188 congressmen who signed the impeachment complaints have also filed their SALN.

CJ Corona is the first Chief Justice to be impeached for graft and corruption, culpable violation of the constitution and betrayal of public trust. In 2003, the Supreme Court dismissed the impeachment resolution against then Chief Justice Hilario Davide for reasons of being unconstitutional.

Other officials impeached are Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez in 2011 who resigned, former President Joseph Estrada in 2000 where the trial was aborted, former President Elpidio Quirino in 1949 where the complaint was rejected, former President Diosdado Macapagal in 1964 where complaints were dismissed, former President Ferdinand Marcos in 1985 where complaints dismissed, and former President Corazon Aquino in 1988 where charges were rejected.

In the current impeachment proceedings being heard by the Senate, there are eight Articles of Impeachment signed by 188 Congressmen. The 1987 Constitution provides that 1/3 of the House members are required to impeach.

1. Partiality and subservience in cases involving the Arroyo administration from the time of his appointment as Supreme Court Associate Justice up to his dubious midnight appointment as Chief Justice and up to the present.

2. Failure to disclose to the public his statement of assets, liabilities, and net worth as required under Section 17 Article XI of the Constitution.

3. Failure to meet and observe the stringent standards under the Constitution that provided that a member of the judiciary must be a person of proven competence, integrity, probity and independence in allowing the Supreme Court to act on mere letters filed by a counsel which caused the issuance of flip-flopping decisions in final and executor cases in creating an excessive entanglement with Mrs. Arroyo through her appointment with his wife to office and in discussing with litigants cases pending in the Supreme Court .

4. Blatantly disregarding the principle of separation of powers by issuing a status quo ante order against the House of Representatives in the case concerning the impeachment of then Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez.

5. Wanton arbitrariness and partiality in consistently disregarding the principle of res judicata or resurrecting decided cases, and in deciding in favour of gerrymandering in the cases involving in the 16 newly created cities and the promotion of Dinagat Island into a province.

6. Arrogating unto himself and to a committee he created the authority and jurisdiction to improperly investigate an alleged erring member of the Supreme Court for the purpose of exculpating him. Such authority and jurisdiction are properly reposed by the Constitution in the House of Representatives via impeachment.

7. Partiality in granting a temporary restraining order in favour of Arroyo and her husband Jose Miguel Arroyo in order to give them an opportunity to escape prosecution and frustrate the ends of justice, and in distorting the Supreme Court decision on the effectivity of the TRO in view of a clear failure to comply with the conditions of the Supreme Court’s own TRO.

8. Failure and refusal to account for the Judiciary Development Fund and Special Allowance for the Judiciary collections.

Impeachment originated in England and is described as a ‘decisive weapon in political warfare and an inherent function of any representative legislature.’ To impeach is to accuse a public official or challenge the credibility before an appropriate tribunal for misconduct in office. Impeachment in the USA follows the British pattern.

Philippine impeachment differs from the USA in the percentage needed to impeach and the numerical limit.

ABANGAN ANG SUSUNOD NA KARUGTONG! WATCH FOR THE NEXT EPISODE.

Ruben and Cen Amores

Prime Minister Julia Gillard today congratulated 40 Australians, including Filipino community leader Dr Cen Amores, who have been recognised for their outstanding work in building strong and cohesive local communities.

The 40 local champions have been independently selected as the new People of Australia Ambassadors following hundreds of nominations from the public.

Australians were encouraged to nominate inspirational people who have helped to build bridges, promote inclusion and strengthen ties in their communities.

The Prime Minister and Parliamentary Secretary for Immigration and Multicultural Affairs Kate Lundy announced the new Ambassadors in Melbourne today.

Prime Minister Gillard in Melbourne with Senator Lundy and FL player and new Ambassador, Harry O’Brien, announcing the names of the 40 People of Australia ambassadors.

They were joined by football champion and new Ambassador Harry O’Brien, who is actively involved in the AFL’s own Multicultural Program and engaged in a variety of community projects.

The Ambassador program is a key initiative of the Gillard Labor Government’s multicultural policy,

The 40 Ambassadors now have a new platform to promote their good work and share their ideas and initiatives that can help inspire others.

The 2012 Ambassadors’ term commences today and ends on 30 December 2012.

Australian Capital Territory
Sam Wong AM

Northern Territory
Ms Sascha McKell
Mr Kevin Kadirgamar

New South Wales
Sister Diana Santleben
Mr Ali Reza Yunespour
Dr Cen Amores
Ms Ricci Bartels
Mr Susai Benjamin JP
Mr Jeremy Jones AM
Ms Vivi Germanos-Koutsounadis
Mr Lawrence Dimech OAM, JP
Ms Carmen Lazar
Mrs Jenny Siv Phan Tew
Mr Samir Yousif
Dr Tien Manh Nguyen OAM

Queensland
Mrs Adele Rice
Mr Daniel Zingifuaboro
Mr Warren McMillan
Dr Farvardin Daliri OAM
Mr Umesh Chandra

South Australia
Pastor Brad Chilcott
Ms Dorinda Hafner
Mrs Claudia Cream
Ms Denise McEvoy
Ms Elizabeth Ho

Tasmania
Mr Fayia Isaiah Lahai
Mrs Sajini Sumar

Victoria
Mr Harry O’Brien
Ms Melissa Barbieri
Mrs Elleni Bereded-Samuel
Mr Deepak Vinayak
Mrs Jennifer Barrera
Ms Marion Lau OAM, JP
Mr Chap Chow
Mr Phong Nguyen
Mr Ahmed Dini
Mr David Nyuol Vincent

Western Australia
Ms Maria Grazia Saraceni
Ms Zeliha Iscel
Mr Salim Youssef

Source: Prime Minister’s Office

Sinulog commemorates the arrival of the Spaniards led by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 when he planted a cross on the shores of Cebu and presented a statue of the Child Jesus (Sto Nino) to Hara Amihan, wife of Rajah Humabon, Cebu’s chieftain, and which marked the conversion of the natives to Roman Catholicism.

Sinulog is celebrated in many countries outside the Philippines including Australia. In New South Wales alone, three celebrations were held on Sunday, January 15 – at Campbelltown in the southwest area, Pumpton in Blacktown area, and Wyoming in Central Coast.

My 92-year old mother and I braved the rainy drive through F3 to attend the Wyoming celebration. We joined more than 500 Sto Nino devotees at the Parish of Our Lady of the Rosary in Wyoming. The occasion had an added significance as it was also to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Sinulog in Central Coast.

The event started at nearly 12 noon with a procession of members of the congregation who placed their Sto Nino statues at the altar. The mass was celebrated by Fr Renato Paras, as special guest priest, and Fr Andrew Matubusi of the OLOR Wyoming Parish. In keeping with Sto Nino’s love for the children, the readings and the prayers of the faithful were read by several children. Fr Matubusi read the gospel and the homily delivered by Fr Paras. The mass was conducted in English as there were several non-Filipinos who attended the special occasion.

The main message of Fr Paras centred on ‘love’ being the centre of our relationship with God, our fellowmen and ourselves. He also highlighted that as Sto Nino welcomes and loves the children, it is important to ensure that the they are spiritually nurtured. He also reminded the children that they need to respect and love back their parents and family members. Fr Paras’ good sense of humour was also very evident while delivering his message. Much to the congregation’s delight, he sang con gusto “people who need people, are the luckiest people in the world….”

Fr Paras, who hails from Cebu, initiated the celebration of Sinulog on 20 January 2002 in collaboration with the then Parish Priest Fr John Wakeling (now deceased).

A special blessing of the children who gathered around the altar and the Sto Nino statues was also ministered by Fr. Paras before the final blessing of the congregation. A procession of the statues followed through the parish school’s quadrangle. By this time, the sun was shining brightly.

Typical of a Filipino fiesta, there was the traditional lechon, a great variety of Filipino dishes and desserts shared by everyone during lunch. Everyone was also treated with an enjoyable program of entertainment, the highlight of which was the Sinulog dance.

Congratulations to all who were involved in organising the event. Thanks to Emily Rudd for the invitation to the celebration. My mother and I certainly had a blessed and enjoyable day.

We hope to celebrate another Sinulog next year.

Pit Senor!! God’s blessings to all.

Photos by Violi Calvert

Fr Paras and Fr Matubusi during the mass

Fr Paras celebrating mass

Some devotees doing the Sinulog dance

Sto Nino statue

The writer, Violi Calvert, and her mother

Sto Nino statue

One of the well-known religious celebrations in the Philippines, and one of the grandest annual festivals in Cebu, is the Sinulog.

Sinulog commemorates the arrival of the Spaniards led by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 when he planted a cross on the shores of Cebu and presented a statue of the Child Jesus (Sto Nino) to Hara Amihan, wife of Rajah Humabon, Cebu’s chieftain, and which marked the conversion of the natives to Roman Catholicism.

Sinulog is celebrated in many countries outside the Philippines including Australia. In New South Wales alone, three celebrations were held on Sunday, January 15 – at Campbelltown in the southwest area, Pumpton in Blacktown area, and Wyoming in Central Coast.

My 92-year old mother and I braved the rainy drive through F3 to attend the Wyoming celebration. We joined more than 500 Sto Nino devotees at the Parish of Our Lady of the Rosary in Wyoming. The occasion had an added significance as it was also to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Sinulog in Central Coast.

The event started at nearly 12 noon with a procession of members of the congregation who placed their Sto Nino statues at the altar. The mass was celebrated by Fr Renato Paras, as special guest priest, and Fr Andrew Matubusi of the OLOR Wyoming Parish. In keeping with Sto Nino’s love for the children, the readings and the prayers of the faithful were read by several children. Fr Matubusi read the gospel and the homily delivered by Fr Paras. The mass was conducted in English as there were several non-Filipinos who attended the special occasion.

The main message of Fr Paras centred on ‘love’ being the centre of our relationship with God, our fellowmen and ourselves. He also highlighted that as Sto Nino welcomes and loves the children, it is important to ensure that the they are spiritually nurtured. He also reminded the children that they need to respect and love back their parents and family members. Fr Paras’ good sense of humour was also very evident while delivering his message. Much to the congregation’s delight, he sang con gusto “people who need people, are the luckiest people in the world….”

Fr Paras, who hails from Cebu, initiated the celebration of Sinulog on 20 January 2002 in collaboration with the then Parish Priest Fr John Wakeling (now deceased).

A special blessing of the children who gathered around the altar and the Sto Nino statues was also ministered by Fr. Paras before the final blessing of the congregation. A procession of the statues followed through the parish school’s quadrangle. By this time, the sun was shining brightly.

Typical of a Filipino fiesta, there was the traditional lechon, a great variety of Filipino dishes and desserts shared by everyone during lunch. Everyone was also treated with an enjoyable program of entertainment, the highlight of which was the Sinulog dance.

Congratulations to all who were involved in organising the event. Thanks to Emily Rudd for the invitation to the celebration. My mother and I certainly had a blessed and enjoyable day.

We hope to celebrate another Sinulog next year.

Pit Senor!! God’s blessings to all.

Photos by Violi Calvert

Values will be realigned and in most cases, discipline will be in the agenda. Parenting is one heavy task so most immediately mature and become responsible on demand.

Education is one major focus for these young minds. As parents, we believe through proper education, our children will secure a bright future. But what is “proper education”?

Webster defines education as “the knowledge and development resulting from an educational process” while on Wiki it’s translated as “the formal process by which society deliberately transmits its accumulated knowledge, skills, customs and values”.

How we educate according to Webster is “to provide schooling or to train by formal instruction and supervised practice especially in skill, trade or profession. To develop mentally, morally and aesthetically specially by instruction” and it also states “to persuade or condition to feel, believe or act in a desired way”.

I agree with all these and believe that we studied History, Science, Arts, Music, Language, Philosophy, Psychology, Sociology, Commerce, Numbers & Formulas as all these affect our society and the way we behave today. I also believe that education is methodical, spiritual and acquired through any accumulative experience that comes our way. Most of all, I believe that education starts at home.

If education is through a process, why do we behave differently? It’s because we have different perspective and understanding; we react based on our experiences and learn from them differently. And because of these we form our own opinions, values and beliefs which in turn we pass onto our children.

Some people think numerous degrees entitle them to be bullies. Some are bullies thinking they are superior than others. Some think they are superior because they have titles to go with their names. Some strive for titles because they see this as a way to gain respect. These people are “educated” differently I suppose.

In the field of science we have learned about physics, chemistry, geology and biology – how to use energy and force to our advantage, how the magic of atomic interactions materialize, how the world of animals, plants and living organisms behave and how all these contributed on how our environment is formed.

We can also compare ourselves to the kingdom animalia; similar to human society there’s hierarchy, classes, species and food chain. Yes, we have the snakes (deceivers), the leech (suckers), the butterflies (gentle spirit) and of course, the dominant/loud bullies.

What separates us from them is our ability to be great thinkers and leaders. But it is sad to admit that there are animals amongst us. Degrees may secure you a better job but it does not necessarily make one a better person. Titles or positions may earn more money or power but this does not give them the right to disrespect others. What’s scary is that some of these people are so-called educators, who have the capacity to influence others’ thinking, sometimes lack common sense.

I have seen and known kids (and adults) who attended private schools and yet a few won’t cover their mouths when they sneeze, jump queues, would dip their spoons into the dish instead of using the serving spoon, take things without permission and those who refuse to observe simple rules. How can you call them educated if they fail to demonstrate courtesy and social etiquette? We also have some “highly educated” people in our government and yet they lack the moral conscience to avoid the temptation of lies and corruption.

How can one educate if he or she abuses his/her power/position or he/she can’t even recognize what is right and wrong? How can one educate when one fails to accept theirs or other’s limitations, exercise logic, manifest integrity, observe respect, show common sense and/or share compassion?

How do we weed out or separate these elements? As hard as we want to, sometimes we can’t. We rely on our government, schools, churches, clubs and even media to nourish our minds but unfortunately humans have denied themselves of growing as a colony. If you study the ants or the bees, they respect, recognize and embrace their existence; the needs take precedence of the wants. They work hard with humility, together as one for the good of everybody. That does not exist in our society – we seek what we want and want more than we need.

The best education we can teach our kids is to be a good influence in their lives, to educate them of the consequences of choices and to teach the difference – the difference between anger and compassion, arrogance and respect, selfishness and genuine generosity, subjectivity and truth, superficial and beneficial, reasons and justice.

This world is designed for co-existence – until men decide to do respect the law of nature and humanity we are left with two choices: to be wary of our own backyard and stay close-minded or to explore the world equipped with love, trust, faith, hope and understanding.

I am not perfect, no one is. But I will DO my best to create an environment of change – reflect on my experiences, review my expectations, recognize and respect others, realign my values to what gives dignity to humanity and society and to what pleases God. It’s time to let go of what can chain us in the past and RE-learn forgiveness (not only to others but ourselves), re-enforce generosity, repair/restore, reassure, remind, renew and rejoice! Only when I choose to put aside ME will true learning begin.

When one becomes a parent, the first instinct is to protect and provide for your children’s needs. Parents almost automatically start assessing their environment and thinking of ways on how to nurture these kids physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually.

Values will be realigned and in most cases, discipline will be in the agenda. Parenting is one heavy task so most immediately mature and become responsible on demand.

Education is one major focus for these young minds. As parents, we believe through proper education, our children will secure a bright future. But what is “proper education”?

Webster defines education as “the knowledge and development resulting from an educational process” while on Wiki it’s translated as “the formal process by which society deliberately transmits its accumulated knowledge, skills, customs and values”.

How we educate according to Webster is “to provide schooling or to train by formal instruction and supervised practice especially in skill, trade or profession. To develop mentally, morally and aesthetically specially by instruction” and it also states “to persuade or condition to feel, believe or act in a desired way”.

I agree with all these and believe that we studied History, Science, Arts, Music, Language, Philosophy, Psychology, Sociology, Commerce, Numbers & Formulas as all these affect our society and the way we behave today. I also believe that education is methodical, spiritual and acquired through any accumulative experience that comes our way. Most of all, I believe that education starts at home.

If education is through a process, why do we behave differently? It’s because we have different perspective and understanding; we react based on our experiences and learn from them differently. And because of these we form our own opinions, values and beliefs which in turn we pass onto our children.

Some people think numerous degrees entitle them to be bullies. Some are bullies thinking they are superior than others. Some think they are superior because they have titles to go with their names. Some strive for titles because they see this as a way to gain respect. These people are “educated” differently I suppose.

In the field of science we have learned about physics, chemistry, geology and biology – how to use energy and force to our advantage, how the magic of atomic interactions materialize, how the world of animals, plants and living organisms behave and how all these contributed on how our environment is formed.

We can also compare ourselves to the kingdom animalia; similar to human society there’s hierarchy, classes, species and food chain. Yes, we have the snakes (deceivers), the leech (suckers), the butterflies (gentle spirit) and of course, the dominant/loud bullies.

What separates us from them is our ability to be great thinkers and leaders. But it is sad to admit that there are animals amongst us. Degrees may secure you a better job but it does not necessarily make one a better person. Titles or positions may earn more money or power but this does not give them the right to disrespect others. What’s scary is that some of these people are so-called educators, who have the capacity to influence others’ thinking, sometimes lack common sense.

I have seen and known kids (and adults) who attended private schools and yet a few won’t cover their mouths when they sneeze, jump queues, would dip their spoons into the dish instead of using the serving spoon, take things without permission and those who refuse to observe simple rules. How can you call them educated if they fail to demonstrate courtesy and social etiquette? We also have some “highly educated” people in our government and yet they lack the moral conscience to avoid the temptation of lies and corruption.

How can one educate if he or she abuses his/her power/position or he/she can’t even recognize what is right and wrong? How can one educate when one fails to accept theirs or other’s limitations, exercise logic, manifest integrity, observe respect, show common sense and/or share compassion?

How do we weed out or separate these elements? As hard as we want to, sometimes we can’t. We rely on our government, schools, churches, clubs and even media to nourish our minds but unfortunately humans have denied themselves of growing as a colony. If you study the ants or the bees, they respect, recognize and embrace their existence; the needs take precedence of the wants. They work hard with humility, together as one for the good of everybody. That does not exist in our society – we seek what we want and want more than we need.

The best education we can teach our kids is to be a good influence in their lives, to educate them of the consequences of choices and to teach the difference – the difference between anger and compassion, arrogance and respect, selfishness and genuine generosity, subjectivity and truth, superficial and beneficial, reasons and justice.

This world is designed for co-existence – until men decide to do respect the law of nature and humanity we are left with two choices: to be wary of our own backyard and stay close-minded or to explore the world equipped with love, trust, faith, hope and understanding.

I am not perfect, no one is. But I will DO my best to create an environment of change – reflect on my experiences, review my expectations, recognize and respect others, realign my values to what gives dignity to humanity and society and to what pleases God. It’s time to let go of what can chain us in the past and RE-learn forgiveness (not only to others but ourselves), re-enforce generosity, repair/restore, reassure, remind, renew and rejoice! Only when I choose to put aside ME will true learning begin.

Back row: Deedee Dugan, Linda Gillies, Patrick Valenzuela, and Roger Marcelo. Front row: Mina Valenzuela, Babes Roberts, Linda Swords, Espie Villamaria, and Marilou Marcelo

A group of long-time Filipino-Australian residents in Sutherland Shire, in Sydney’s south, gathered at the home of Linda Swords in Caringbah to prepare a proposal to launch Radio Maya on radio 2SSR 99.7FM, the area’s community radio station.

Radio Maya, the program’s tentative name, may be patterned after existing Filipino community radio programs in Sydney including Radio Bandila, Radio Kawayan, Radio Tamaraw, Radio Dalisay, Radio Sandigan, and Radio Mabuhay.

At the meeting were Linda Swords, Mina Valenzuela, Babes Roberts, Espie Villamaria, Marilou Marcelo, Deedee Dugan, Linda Gillies, Patrick Valenzuela, Roger Marcelo, and Neil Parungao.

The picnic is being organised by the Campbelltown’s Rizal Park Movement in conjunction with the Philippine Consulate General in Sydney.

The event is also an occasion for those who will attend to help in a fund-raising campaign for the victims of Typhoon Washi (Sendong) that severely hit Cagayan de Oro and Iligan City days before Christmas last month.

The picnic is the start of the Consulate’s activities with the community for the new year, said Consul-General Anne Jalando-on Louis.

“The Consulate plans to work even more closely with the Filipino Community in New South Wales this year on activities that will highligh the richness of Philippine history, culture and traditions as well as our strengths as a country and people,” Consul-General Louis added.

The day’s activities will begin with a eucharistic celebration to be held at the Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church located at 80 Demetrius Road, Rosemeadow, Campbelltown at 10am.

This will be followed by blessing of the Rizal Park grounds and a brief program at 11:30am, then lunch and traditional Filipino games.

The Campbelltown Rizal Park is a two-minute walk from the church.

Improvements in the Campbelltown Rizal Park had been undertaken by the Campbelltown City Council in coordination with the Rizal Park Movement.

A 5-metre Rizal statue donated by reknowned Filipino sculptor-artist Eduardo Castrillo will be installed at the conclusion of the national hero’s sesquicentennial birth anniversary in June this year.

Bevan Calvert playing reindeer with nieces and nephews

Over the years, readers of this website have been following the achievements of Bevan Calvert, the Filipino Australian who has been making a mark in the Australian and overseas handball arenas.

The only Filipino Australian handballer who has played in four world championships and several other international tournaments, Bevan is a source of pride of the Filipino community.

In July 2008, he was a Global Filipino youth awardee in Sports. In 2009, his achievements featured in interstitials titled “Global Filipino” by the ABS-CBN The Filipino Channel. And years prior to that, he was one of the youngest recipients of an outstanding Filipino youth award from the Filipino Communities council of Australia.

Bevan, whose Filipino heritage comes from his mother Violi, is a member of the Australian Men’s Handball Team playing in a professional handball league in Europe.

At last month’s holiday break, Bevan took time off from the German handball Bundesliga league to spend Christmas with his family and friends. And like other family-oriented young man, he was game enough to play reindeer for his nieces and nephews.

It was a well earned rest for Bevan who is ranked equal 5th place as a top goalscorer in his division in the Bundesliga and number 4 top top goalscorer in his team TSV Altenholz. His scores do not include the free shots taken his team mates fo penalties he earned when he was fouled by their opponents.

Bevan has a full plate. In addition to training four days a week and playing matches on the weekends, Bevan is also doing an apprenticeship to become a licensed Fitness Trainer/Salesman.

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Skilled handballers get to play past thirty years of age. Being 25 years years old, Bevan has a few more years to continue to shine in his sport.

The Filipino Australian wishes this Fil-Aussie dynamo all the best in 2012 and the years to come.