MiG Ayesa (aka Miguel Ayesa) was born in the Philippines, grew up in Australia and found his groove in music and theatre.  He is a singer, songwriter, actor and he exudes charm, wit and extraordinary  talent.  It is therefore befitting that the Filipino Australian Movement for Empowerment (FAME) on behalf of the Filipino community will honour him for his exemplary achievements in the entertainment industry at their 4^th annual anniversary celebrations at Novotel Hotel on 19 May 2012.  It is indeed a recognition that’s long overdue.

The Rock Star  INXS reality show had opened more doors for him in the entertainment industry and landed him a recording contract with Universal Records.

He has been charming audiences in Australia, Canada, London and New York where he has shined in theatre productions such as:  “The Buddy Holly Story”, “We Will Rock You”, “Burn The Floor”, “Rock of Ages”,” Grease”, “Rent”  and “Fame”.  

He is currently in London thrilling audiences in the stage production of Michael Jackson’s  “Thriller Live” and will be performing  “Rock of Ages” in the Philippines in June/July.

In the words of MiG:  “I attribute my success to three elements: hard work, passion and a little bit of luck.  I have surpassed my wildest dreams.  I finally feel like I belong, like this is what I’m meant to do in this life.  And the best part?  This is just the beginning.” 

Even more touching is his admirable quality to stay connected with his roots.  He wrote and recorded the song “United As One” for the typhoon victims of the Philippines. The song may be downloaded from his website at www.mig-music.com and part of the proceeds go to Red Cross for the disaster victims.

FAME recognizes the talents of Filipinos whose lives having been nothing less than inspirational and who have helped raise the image of Filipinos around the world.

And for those who can’t fly to London, you can catch MiG in the Philippines when he performs in “Rock of Ages” in June/July.

MAPUA alumni have always been known to excel in the fields of engineering, architecture, science and technology.  But at the recent Induction of officers at P-Noy Lounge, Blacktown on 28 April, the Mapua Alumni Australia boasted of their new found talents.  They’ve gone musical too!

After the formalities of the occasion, a band of five Mapuans took to the stage to treat guests to a musical feast, dishing out the good old rock and roll hits of yesteryears.  There was Randy and Toti on guitars, Allan on drums, Greg on sax and Roberto on base who also stepped up to the mike as the band’s smooth crooner.  Newly formed and still nameless, the Cardinals of all ages took the party tempo a little faster to show proving that music is indeed ageless. 

As in most Mapua functions wit and humour prevailed and their down to earth quality was clearly felt.

2012 President Daniel Gregorio and Secretary, Marissa Manoto.

Newly inducted president Daniel Gregorio accepted the challenges as President and vowed to  continue the Mapua tradition of excellence.  He called on the members for their cooperation for the completion of planned projects.  Now on its fourth year, the association is committed to providing scholarships for the less fortunate back in their school. Already they’ve had their first scholar - Karl Paulo Clemente, a graduate of BS computer engineering. 

Others on the board included: Randy Tangonan (VP), Marissa Manoto (Secretary), Mao de Vera (Treasurer and founder of the Mapua Alumni), Ninoy Batara (Auditor), Rey Baraceros PRO) and directors: Charlie Castillo, Milagros Cabael-Gregorio, Celedonia Cruz-Uvero. And all the way from Western Australia was Joseph Calasara who is responsible for the 2015 global meet logo.

Special guest and inducting Officer, Consul Marford Angeles said “You are one with your ideals and we (the Philippine Consulate) are here to help and serve you.”  “Continue in the good name of your school and for the Philippines” he added.

Founded in 1925, Mapua is now the first school in the Philippines and Southeast Asia to be given accreditation by Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).  That makes Mapua graduates equal if not better than their US counterparts.

Another event  to look forward is the global gathering of Mapuans in Sydney in 2015.

But for tonight, they lived up to their school motto of “learn, discover and create.”  They discovered the rhythm in them and created music!  And a new band is born.

This year the PCC-NSW will celebrate our own diversity (Iba’t ibang lipi; iisang diwa.).

“We come from different regions in the Philippines, with different traditions and yet each one is unique in their own special way,”  said Mr. Sayas, President of PCC-NSW.

“We are a colourful people. Despite our differences, we are one in spirit and our aspirations are the same.  We are all Filipinos under one flag,” he adds.

Celebrations for Philippine Independence celebrations will also include daytime flag raising ceremonies at: Parramatta, Blacktown, Penrith, Campbelltown and Bathurst.  The activities are being organised by PCC-NSW’s  affiliates in cooperation with their respective local councils.

As the peak organization of the Filipino community in NSW, the PCC-NSW has organized The Philippine National Day Ball annually for years with the support of the Philippines Consulate General, Sydney. It is also the gala event attended by both Philippine and Australian dignitaries.

Special guest entertainers will be announced closer the date.

“We invite everyone to join us on this special occasion and feel Filipino again.  Hear the rhythm of a people and  Feel the colours,” said Mr. Sayas.   

For further enquiries and ticket information contact PCC-NSW President Atoy Sayas 0411262434, Marivic Manalo 0402 354853, Raquel Pellero 0478 038825 or Millie Banan 0403 021358.

For some, when the rapture of anger has passed, they simmer down, feeling embarrassed and apologetic.  But without a tinge of remorse, a likely repeat is bound to happen.

Some unable to face the truth slip into a comatose of denial, shrugging their shoulders and walking away for fear of being alienated.  Some would rather swallow the sugar coated articles jam-packed with superlatives even if it bears no semblance to the truth.  Others play goodie two shoes and say they won’t read anything negative.  “Too negative,” they cringe! To which I would kindly say they had better look closer or just lock themselves into their little worlds and throw the key away. And then of course there are those who think that we shouldn’t air our dirty laundry. “Shame, shame,” they cry.   On the contrary, I personally feel that it should be aired before it contaminates the rest of us.  Ever heard of spring cleaning?

Like it or not – the truth is the truth!  People may have their own version of the truth but the facts remain the same.  Is it better to have the negative truth or the positive fairy-flossed lie? 

While it would be nice to write about sugar and spice and all things nice unfortunately the reality is that life isn’t so.  There aren’t much smiling babies around lately.  We live in an imperfect world inhabited by less than perfect humans.  Badies and the dysfunctional do exist.  Sycophants circle around us fanning egos to ingratiate themselves.   

But what about the victims who have had to endure?  No one sees them. No one hears them.  In hushed tones, they complain a little or suffer in silence for fear of recrimination while the culprits remain steadfast in their perverse thinking and more resolute in their omissions.

The responsibility of delivering the information whether negative or the positive lies with the media.  The public, the community relies on the media to deliver accurate information.  It may not be always what is liked but it is what is needed.  It may be negative but it is factual.  However, the factual and accurate delivery of the message is dependent on the credibility of the writer and the media.  And lately it would seem that some are indulging the wrong.  In exchange for cash or kind the desired publicity or a press ally may be had  - with a few extra adjectives thrown in for good measure.  When world class comes at a price, then we do have something to worry about. Others just simply have no clue!

If the media never exposed the truth where would be now?  We would probably still be stuck somewhere in the Marcos era or wallowing in Eraptions.  Now even former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo is on the same boat.  Hooray to the media who aired it out.

In the real world, when an individual steps into the public arena declaring that they represent the community or public at large, then they become answerable and subject to public and media scrutiny. The same rule should apply to our community.  Why should the standards be any different?  Why should we be exempt?  

Regrettably some fall on their own swords. Sadly some won’t even know the truth even when it hits them.

And that’s the truth!

It’s a  Magic Night  and the magic starts at 7pm on Saturday 19 May 2012 at Concept 33, Novotel Hotel, Rooty Hill.  And brace yourself for a little surprise or two.

FAME’s aim has been to empower Filipinos at grassroots level and to push them beyond their own potentials not only to achieve but live their dreams.   “It’s about having the confidence to grab their dreams and aspirations” said Ferdie Francisco, Executive Director of FAME, an achiever in his own right.  “It’s about having faith and believing in themselves that they can compete and make it.  And FAME is right behind them,” he adds.

Part of the night’s activities will be recognizing those who have carved their names in their special fields of interest in Australia.  These are individuals who have crossed community and multicultural boundaries and who have swam successfully in mainstream Australia.

Weaving  their  own magic will be young Marianne Cuasay and stage veteran Tina Rañoso Bangel.  Marianne is the current title holder of Australian Street Music and Dance Festival in Sydney. Ms. Tina Rañoso Bangel of course is no stranger to the club circuit as well as the corporate scene.  Tina has performed in Cabaret shows, Star City Casino, Captain Cook Cruises and has opened for big name international stars.  Despite her many music engagements she takes time to runs her inspiring One Voice Singing School for children and Kindermusik for ankle biters.

The first Philippine National Rugby League Team, The Carabaos, who recently clinched a win at the International 9’s at Cabramatta will be given their due recognition. 

Also a special inspiring video message from MiG Ayesa, rock singer, actor who first did the music rounds with bands such as Sohcahtoa, The Honkies, The Lovetown and Randy Badass & The Slickmaster Five.  He has since moved on to bigger and better things commanding a stage presence in theatre plays such as “Grease” Rent”.  MiG is currently playing the lead in London production of  Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” 

With local elections looming, several Filipinos will be aiming for local seats and FAME will be there to back them and see them through.  After four years of existence, FAME now boasts of four suburban chapters:  Woodcroft, Kings Park/Marayong, Quakers Hill and most recently Blacktown. 

Fame’s “Magic Night” is more than just another dinner dance. There’ll be lots of music and dancing.  But one thing is for sure, it’ll be an enchanting evening guaranteed to leave guests spellbound.  And more importantly, it promises to inspire! 

For ticket enquiries contact: Ferdie Francisco on 0417 482 814;  Dennis Laxamana on 0416 269 270 and Cesar Bartolome on 0407 143 432.

This is PAMA’s 5^th successful medical mission which is being coordinated by Dr. Roger Fabian  will include five doctors, six nurses and approximately a dozen volunteers. The other medics traveling with Dr. Fabian are: Dr. Ophee De Vera, Dr. Evelyn Icao, Dr. Cecile Rowe and Dr. Belinda Lorenzo.

The medical envoys are off to the towns of Pagadian and Aurora in Zamboanga del Sur from 21 -25 May.  They are scheduled for major surgeries in Pagadian, and for minor surgical operations, dental as well as medical consultations in Aurora. The team will then move to El Nido, Palawan from 28-30 May for minor surgeries, dental and medical consultations.

In true altruistic fashion, the PAMA doctors who commit to the mission pay their own way and often bring other family members to assist. With makeshift facilities and operating under bare essentials, they provide the much needed quality care which is not only rare but practically nonexistent. They help alleviate the pain and suffering of those living in remote places. 

Dr. Fabian shares his experience:  “When I first joined the team three years ago, I was sure that they would benefit from my services.  However, it’s the other way around.  It is I who has benefited from the venture.  The smile and look we get from the patients more than compensate for the difficulties.  It is truly a very satisfying experience.”

The missions are a synchronized team effort planned prior and executed like clockwork upon arrival at their destinations.  The provincial/city or municipal governments and agencies usually come into play by providing the team a site for their operations.  The Rotary Australia World Community Service (RAWCS) assist by providing local nurses, health and support staff as well as transport, meals and those little meriendas.  The Ugnayan ng Pahinungod Volunteer Corps (UP-PGH) gear up with the medical supplies and medications although the burden of expense is shouldered by PAMA.  The local branch of Philippine Medical Association and the Philippine Dental Association also provide extra assistance on the ground.

Already over 6,000 patients have benefited over the past years from such missions of mercy.

At Polilio Island, Quezon (6-9 April 2008) they treated 949 patients and donated an X-Ray Machine for local use; at Gubat, Sorsogon (13-17 April 2009), in cooperation with UGAY Australia, the numbers treated jumped to 2055 patients;   Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental (21-25 June 2010) 1,162 patients queued for treatment; and last year at Oroquieta City, Misamis Occcidental (11-17 April 2011) 1,939 came for treatment.

The last year’s mission at Misamis Occidental included an Australian Surgical Team headed by Dr. Bill Walker, a retired plastic surgeon from Newcastle who has helped transform lives dramatically.

“We are hoping that we can expand these medical missions in the future to be able to accommodate more patients and reach more areas,” said Dr. Fabian.

At a time, when health is considered a prime commodity, our PAMA doctors give the best gift of all – the gift of life.

For more information on the Philippine Australian Medical Association or wanting to help their cause visit their website www.pama.org.au

It was the Bicol Inc’s turn to have their annual general meeting and elections.  The organization prides itself as moving the seat of power on a fair rotational basis among the Bicol provinces.  This year, after doing a complete round of all the provinces, it was Albay’s turn.  And vying for the two representative seats of Albay were candidates Ross Iglesia, Neria Soliman, Josie Musa and Gil Bellarmino.  For the winner, it was also an opportunity to be the head honcho for Bicol Inc. this year.

But already there was something cooking.  It was hot and spicy but nothing as palatable as the Bicol Express.  Musa’s 22 new member recruits had just been disqualified by the Comelec team headed by Jun Relunia for failure to comply with the eligibility requirement by last December.   

The candidates took their places and everything seemed to go on smoothly.  The candidates took their turns in delivering their campaign speeches. The voting proceeded peacefully, and then the counting began.  Just as Jun Relunia, the election officer for the day was about to announce the winners – Mr. Ross Iglesia (67 votes), Neria Soliman (37 votes), Ms. Musa who got only 29 votes waved her hand frantically, her eyes roamed anxiously around the room in search of allies, her head kept tilting to one side, and she stood up and declared that she was protesting the election results based on the disqualification of her enlisted recruits.

As an outsider, it was obvious Ms. Musa had hoped to win.  Having been the vice chairperson of Bicol Inc. last year, she had hoped to inherit the chairmanship by natural succession which of course is not the case.   Where on earth did she get that?  But amusingly, Musa had sat there quietly and patiently listening to the counting.  It was only after she had lost the seat that she decided to protest.  According to Ms. Musa, she had protested from the start.  But why then did she go through her election speech if she was in protest.  Odd I thought.

Since Musa protested, the decision to re-accept the disqualified members was then placed to the general assembly.  The acceptance of the 22 questionable members who all voted in absentia inflated her 29 votes to 59 and thus deposing the Ms Neria off her second post but was not enough to knock off Iglesia. And when everybody had gone home, it was Ms. Soliman’s turn to protest against the declared results but who of course had more reason to complain than Musa.

The question is why would Musa insist on having her recruits counted (most of which are comprised by her family, I may add) when she knew she had submitted the list of new members only in February, instead of three months prior to the AGM as required.  In the absence of proof who is to say when the forms were actually filled in.

Undoubtedly, Iglesia is definitely in and since he got the most votes, would it be presumptuous of me to say he takes on the chairperson for 2012?  Or will someone pull out another magic trick?

Sad to see that the Bicol Inc. has not been immune to the virus that has plagued most of the community organisations at election time.  People bond together based on the “kakilala” and “hakot” systems.   Emotions run high and all logic fly out the window.  The best candidate is usually not the best candidate.  Members are re-born and re-appear just in the nick of time to cast their ballots.  People have a say even when they are absolutely misinformed. 

I have witnessed so many of these scenarios though nothing of course would ever compare to Ruben Amores’ 88-98 election win in 2007 and Cen Amores’ fiery display of emotions after losing to Collado in 2010.

Maybe the loser could get a free trip aboard the Bicol express? That could be fun.

Words just ain’t Words

In another unbelievable scenario, fortunately or unfortunately, I so happen to have gotten hold of a copy of the February issue of the Philippine Community Herald.  On the front page was PCC-NSW election story carrying Ms. Zaragoza’s byline.  As I read through it, I realized that I could recite the words by heart.  For an instant,  I thought I was experiencing a déjà vu or it was some kind of divine intervention channeling the words through me, or my paranormal skills had been heightened?  But lo and behold,  it was nothing quite so mystic.  These were my words taken from a profile/fact sheet that I had written for PCC last year. 

As luck would have it, I bumped into Ms. Zaragoza at an event a few days after.  She saw no wrong and claims that the material was given to her by the PCC President when she interviewed him.  The fact that she asked a question and got a reply in writing does not constitute an interview nor does it make a story.    Fact sheets and profiles are handed out by organizations but one does not go around copying it verbatim and worst, one does not affix their byline.  Even a high school student knows that.  As of press time, I am still waiting for her reply in writing. 

Alas, if such is the state of our media, it is frightening.  I can only be glad that I have chosen well where to have my words printed.

Photos by Bob Reyes.

 In Dr. Jose Rizal’s own words, “The youth is the hope of our future.”    If he had been present at the Rizal Park’s Movement’s re-staging of  Leonor Orosa Goquingco’s “Her Son, Jose Rizal”, he would have indeed been proud of the young thespians that stood on the stage of the Campbelltown Arts Centre.

Likewise, author and Philippine National artist, Leonor Orosa Goquingco would have been just as thrilled to know that the lines she penned decades ago were being recited by heart by another generation long after the lights had been turned off.  

For the younger generation, who came to Australia as a result of their parents’ migration or who were born here, Rizal was totally alien to them.  And yet, the younger cast members embraced the play, feeling as close to their new found hero or for some it was a time to get re-acquainted with their almost  forgotten culture.  The play also gave them a sense of connection to their roots and a feeling of belonging. 

For three consecutive days, 9, 10 and 11 March 2012, the Campbelltown Arts Centre showed off the talents of the young, tomorrow’s star potentials.  

From the young  Jose (Pepe) as played by Gerard Jalando-on Louis and alternate, Elijah Merjudio; stepping into the role of Soledad were Isa Noble and Marianne Cuasay; the young Soledads (Choleng) played by Isabelle Montillano and Rochelle Mantua, the youngest in the cast.  Then as Paciano, Rizal’s brother, Tom Merjudio,  Rie Manaloto whose voice was so powerful and NIDA veteran, Patrick Patacsil.  The charming playmates, Elijah Abella, Jake Lapuz and Milan Velasco.  And in the lead role as Rizal was Angelo Refuerzo, who was brilliant in all four shows. 

These were the children of Rizal, bursting with passion at every scene, emoting at their every move,  which garnered no less than a standing ovation from the audience on the Saturday night.  And when the parting scene between Doña Teodora and her children was acted out, young Choleng and Pepe on cue, throwed off their bellowing cries that filled the auditorium and left not a dry eye in sight.

Having patiently waited through the many nights of rehearsals, the kids not only knew their lines by heart but those of the other cast members.  Young Milan could have played Soledad and young Gerard knew Doña Teodora’s lines by heart, right to the end.  Equally touching were the friendships that grew among the youngsters.

The Rizal Park Movement of Campbelltown (RPMC) was responsible for the third re-staging of “Her Son, Jose Rizal” with Rev. Larry Tolentino directing the play.  Elsa Collado stepped into the Production Manager’s role, taking on the daunting if not grueling task of managing the six weeks of rehearsals and ensuring that all production details were met.  “But it was most satisfying,” said Ms. Collado who was sleep deprived for a few weeks.  “There’s so much talent in the cast.  They were great and most cooperative at all times. The parents deserve our heartfelt gratitude for having shared the talent of their children with us.” she added. 

 In the advent of the arrival of Rizal’s statue sometime in June, it was a fitting tribute to the Philippine hero, Dr. Rizal.

The Philippine Community Council of NSW (PCC-NSW), under new management,  held its first community forum “Ugnayan” for the year and opened its doors to all members of the community.

With Atoy Sayas’ new style of leadership also comes a new vision to revitalise PCC-NSW. Ugnayan aims to reinforce PCC’NSW’s inclusivity and reconnect with all groups and individuals in the community.

“PCC is reaching out to everyone in the community. “ said Mr. Sayas.  “Our own community is diversified and we want to harness the talents of those in the community in order to best serve the community.”

Already eight committees have been formed focusing on Youth, Health, Education, Elderly (Aged Care), Immigration & Settlement, Arts & Culture, Women, Sports and Disaster & Calamity (PADER).

The Philippine Australian Disaster Emergency Response (PADER), an arm of PCC-NSW has been in existence for the last two years and has successfully raised funds for the Queensland relief appeal and most recently for Typhoon Sendong.

With a massive show of interest from volunteers, the newly formed committees will service the needs of the Filipino community in each sector. The committees will establish their individual goals and objectives in accordance with PCC-NSW’s own guidelines and will be subject to the Board’s vetting and approval.

Also discussed at the forum was the future of the Multi-Purpose Centre which moved from Rooty Hill to Schofields.   A committee was also formed to determine the status quo of the centre prior to a community decision being made.

Now on it’s 22^nd year, PCC-NSW, as the  peak body of the Filipino community is now in a better position to strengthen ties with the community.  “Kasali lahat,” said Sayas.

The Sydney Australian Filipino Seniors Inc (SAFSI) held their annual general meeting and elections last Sunday, 12 February at Marayong Community Hall, Marayong.

Starting off with prayers, anthem singing and an exercise routine, the elections were off and running.

Rose Natividad challenged incumbent president Jules Sanchez for the presidential seat.  After a see-saw vote tally, Rose Natividad   won over Jules Sanchez 85-64.  Elaine Liddle won over Raymunda Morris for the vice president’s position, 75-72.  No election was held for any other position.

In her campaign speech, Rose Natividad stated the Seniors desire for “Freedom.”  “Freedom of speech - Democracia para sa lahat. Pag-galang sa kapwa.  Basta sama-sama at masaya.” she added.

Jules Sanchez  who has been president of SAFSI since 2009 focused on his abilities as a leader and the reason he was there was “makatulong sa SAFSI”. 

For the members who had been clamoring for change for the past year the Natividad-Liddle win was a sigh of relief.  Beaming with a smile, Mrs. Natividad said, “We look forward to the challenge. There will be a lot of things to be fixed.”

Jules Sanchez accepted his defeat but declared his resignation from SAFSI immediately after the winner had been announced.  

SAFSI will be celebrating their 25^th anniversary in October this year.