Filipino News JULY 2016

Number
1
IT’S OFFICIAL - NZ’s #1 FILIPINO NEWSPAPER
F O R T N I G H T L Y . 1 6 T H A N N I V E R S A R Y .
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Vol 7 No 85
1 July 2016
North &
South
Island
www.filipinonews.nz | email: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz | facebook: Filipino MigrantNews | mobile: 027 445 7887, 027 495 8477
Binibining Filipino News NZ 2016
Sheena Meryl (Auckland) and
Maginoong Filipino News NZ 2016
Ericson Pascua (Hamilton).
pg06
On the 18th June 2016 some young
Filipinos decided to give back to
their culture by sharing the essence
of it with their kapwa Pinoys
through the art of fashion.
Exclusive report by Mariah
Alyssa Medel and photos
by Francis Opinion
and Virgilio Santos.
A Celebration of Culture.
Pacquiao
plans to
un-retire
from boxing
pg13
New wave
of scam
phone
calls.
pg02
10th LS Banal Cup
Boleros
dethrones
the Minions
pg11
The first
'posh'
Filipino
resto in
NZ?
pg15

02 JULY 2016 | WEBSITE: filipinonews.nz | EMAIL: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz | CELLPHONE: 027 4958477 | Facebook: Filipino Migrant News | PINOY NZ LIFE
AT IBA PA
A new wave of scam
phone calls is targeting
migrants and the general
public.
Government agencies and
Auckland Council are
warning people to be vigilant,
as the scam callers do
not represent their organisations
and are not authorised
to demand payments from
their bank accounts.
Immigration New Zealand
(INZ) says that they
are aware of scam phone
calls from individuals claiming
to be working for INZ.
The scam appears to target
a variety of nationalities,
including Indian and Fijian
nationals. INZ is currently
assessing the extent of the
problem, but since the
beginning of June INZ has
received about 180 complaints
from customers who
have been contacted by a
scam caller.
These call scams typically
involve fraudsters deceiving
people into believing they
are speaking to an INZ staff
member, who then demand
payment from people in
order to avoid deportation or
arrest. Usually the caller will
quote reference numbers
that appear to reference INZ
applications, but are false.
There also seemed to be
instances where the caller
was asking for payment in
the form of iTunes vouchers.
INZ Area Manager
Michael Carley says that
often the fraudsters have
some details of the person
New wave of
scam phone calls.
Don’t get
spoofed.
Compiled By Staff Writer
they are speaking to, such as
their name or address.
“Fraudsters can be cunning
in their tactics and may
call from what appears to be
a legitimate phone number
when the call is actually
made from another number.
This technology is known as
ID spoofing scams.” Mr
Carley says.
“I want to be clear that
these calls are not from INZ;
we would never ring someone
and demand money or
the purchase of iTunes
vouchers over the phone. To
ensure that you don't fall
prey to this type of scam
never give your personal
details out in response to
such a call or rely on caller
ID as a means of identification.
If you think you have
been victim to one of these
calls it is important to report
it to the Police or to
Scamwatch.”
Consumer Protection
Manager Mark Hollingsworth
says: “Scammers are
constantly looking for ways
to get your personal information
in order to profit. To
protect yourself get to know
about the common types of
scams and the typical red
flags you should be looking
out for on Consumer
Protection's Scamwatch
page.
Be wary of unexpected
calls or texts seeking your
personal information and do
not pay money to anyone
you have not met. If in
doubt, hang up and report it
straight away to help prevent
others from becoming the
next victim of a scam.”
Further details of variations
on this scam, along
with advice on what to do if
you think you have been the
victim of a scam, can be
found on Consumer Protection's
Scamwatch page.
According to the Office of
Ethnic Communities the
above scam is currently
being investigated by New
Zealand Police.
They say that scams like
this are targeted and can
seem credible. The advice is:
do not give out account
details over the phone unless
you made the call and you
trust that the number you
called is genuine. Ask for a
name and number so you can
call them back and check
that number against a number
you know to be genuine.
If you suspect that you
have given away your credit
card details to a scammer
call your bank immediately
so that they can suspend
your account. Ask to speak
to bank staff that specialise
in security or fraud. Credit
card companies can reverse
a fraudulent transaction if
contacted soon enough.
If you believe that you
have been a victim of this
scam please contact your
local police station.
Meanwhile, Auckland
Council is warning residents
to be vigilant after a woman
fell victim to a scam from a
person claiming to be from
'Auckland District Council'.
The woman says she
received a phone call from
someone with an Australian
phone number who said that
they were from the 'Auckland
District Council'. She
was then asked for her bank
account details so that she
could pay an infringement
notice.
Auckland Council Investigation
Advisor Maureen
Glassey says that unfortunately
the woman gave the
caller her bank account
details, which were then
used to set up a direct debit.
The name 'Auckland District
Council' appears on the victim's
bank statement and has
been used to take around
$150.
Ms Glassey says that
Auckland Council, or any of
its council-controlled organisations
such as Auckland
Transport, would never
ring ratepayers to ask for
bank account details or
request a direct debit to be
set up to pay for infringements.
“We strongly advise that
no one gives out their bank
account details over the
phone to anyone, regardless
of where they say they are
from. If anyone receives a
call of this nature we urge
them to record the number it
comes from, if that's possible
and to pass the details
onto the police,” says Ms
Glassey.
Editor: More news items on
www.filipinonews.nz
CONSULAR SERVICES
For Auckland and surrounding
areas in the North Island.
The Philippine Embassy's Mobile Consular Team
will be in Auckland on the following dates:
28 July 2016 (Thursday) 9:00 am - 6:30 pm
29 July 2016 (Friday) 9:00 am - 6:30 pm
30 July 2016 (Saturday) 9:00 am - 6:30 pm
31 July 2016 (Sunday) 9:00 am - 6:30 pm
01 August 2016 (Monday) 9:00 am
- 6:30 pm
VENUE: Philippine Honorary Consulate General
in Auckland, 486 New North Road, Kingsland,
Auckland Central.
The consular services are for passport
renewal/issuance, civil registration of documents,
authentication and notarization of legal documents,
NBI fingerprinting and certification
(recent passport-sized photos required) and
dual citizenship applications and oath taking.
APPOINTMENT SYSTEM: In order to deliver
more effective and efficient consular services the
Philippine Embassy is now implementing an
online appointment system. Strictly no walk-ins.
Copyright Matters, Terms & Conditions of
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The publisher does not accept any responsibility or liability for views and
claims in the editorial matter or advertisements appearing in this publication and
website.
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Publisher/Editor: Sheila Mariano
Editorial Advisor: Mel Fernandez
Sub-Editor: Kirsty Hotchkiss
News: 027 445 7887
Advertising: 027 495 8477
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Po Box 21396, Henderson,
Auckland 0650
email: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz
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JULY 2016 | WEBSITE: filipinonews.nz | EMAIL: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz | CELLPHONE: 027 4958477 Facebook: Filipino Migrant News 03
Jessica: Constable Bautista,
where were you born
and how long have you
been in New Zealand?
Gerald: I am from
Quezon City. I came to New
Zealand in 2012, so I've
been in the country for
almost four and a half years
now.
Jessica: When did you
join the NZ Police?
Gerald: I started my
application to the NZ Police
back in 2013 but didn't get to
GROWING NUMBER OF PINOY POLIS.
the college until 2015.
Jessica: What inspired
you to join up?
Gerald: It's always been
my dream since I was a little
boy to be a Police Officer,
because helping others
always made me feel good.
Jessica: What were the
challenges you encountered
along the way?
Gerald: My initial challenge
was trying to understand
the Kiwi accent,
because English is not my
first language. I had to find
someone who was willing to
help me when I got lost in
translation.
Jessica: How did you
cope with your studies at
the Police College?
Gerald: I took notes. I
studied even harder, read a
lot and didn't feel bad when I
made mistakes because I
learned that it would be
imprinted in my head and I
wouldn't make the same
mistake twice. I found out
that going to bed earlier
(7pm), then waking up early
(3-4am), worked well for
me; my brain retained what I
studied and I noticed that I
began to become more
relaxed and didn't feel as
nervous on every test day.
Jessica: Was the training
at Police College challenging?
Gerald: The most difficult
part of it was being
away from my family.
Jessica: Name one incident
that you attended that
was specifically significant
to you and why?
Gerald: We responded to
a trespass complaint and
when we arrived we found
Constable Gerard Bautista
two males sleeping inside a
building in the car park.
They didn't have any criminal
records, but had previously
been given trespass
notices. They were both
under 20s and were homeless.
They both seemed to be
having a hard time getting a
job. I really wished that I
could do more to help them
rather than just giving them
another trespass notice. I am
just two months into the job
so I am still learning how to
deal with situations like this.
Jessica: Would you motivate
others to join the NZ
Police?
Gerald: Yes, I've already
encouraged some of my
friends and a few have
already applied.
To find out more about careers in the Police search “events” on NEWCOPS.CO.NZ or call Jessica on 021 1920935 Jessica.phuang@police.govt.nz
Constable Chris Byun
(Foto Supplied)
Jessica: Why did you wish to
join the NZ Police?
Chris: When I was in my second
year at Auckland University I
volunteered to join a programme
called Teach and Learn in
Korea. It was a programme that
was designed and organised by
the Korean Government to have
students in rural areas educated in
English by native English speakers
for free. Many students in
rural areas are poor and do not
have enough money for education
to catch up with the students in
urban areas.
While I was in Korea, in an area
What motivates people
to join the NZ Police?
called Mun Baek in Chung
Cheong Buk Do Province, for a
year and a half I realised how
valuable and important it was to
help others in need. Coming back
to New Zealand, I heard about
opportunities to join the New
Zealand Police. I realised that it
could be a job where I got to help
people on a daily basis. As a
Christian it is also important to
me to be able to help others in
need.
Jessica: What were the challenges
for you when you were
going through the recruitment
process?
Chris: I did not like exercising.
I would rather play computer
games and hang out with friends
in town. Therefore I was not fit at
all. So training for the Physical
Competency Test and swimming
test was difficult.
Also, I was not good at communicating
with people that I didn't
know
Jessica: How did you overcome
the challenges?
Chris: At the time I was an
Auckland University student. So
the only time for me to train was
in the morning. On Mondays and
Wednesdays, I ran with a
The NZ Police is now recruiting
Asian Police Officers. In this
timely report Jessica Phuang
interviews Constable
Gerald Bautista (above) from
the Auckland Central Police
Station and Constable
Chris Byun from the
North Shore Police
Station about
their motivations
for joining the
Police force.
marathon group at the AUT
Millennium Gym. After the running
I went to the gym and did a
bit of weight training.
On Tuesdays and Thursdays I
did more intense weight training
followed by swimming.
To improve my communication
skills I joined the Asian Safety
Patrol Group, where I got to work
with Police Officers from the
Auckland City District Police,
patrolling around the Auckland
CBD area. Whenever I was
patrolling with them I would talk
to members of the public and the
constables I was working with. By
doing so I got to learn how the
police interact with the public and
I also gained more confidence in
my communications skills.
Jessica: What attributes
should one have in order to
reach their goal?
Chris: They should have good
stress management skills, endurance,
good listening skills,
maturity and be able to perform
under pressure. NZ Police often
attend to incidents that can quickly
get out of control. We should be
able to deal with these situations.
We need to be able to listen to victims
and witnesses and engage
effectively.
The incidents we attend can be
stressful. Some people may be
grieving, some may be angry at
us, therefore, we need to be able
to manage our stress well to do
our job well.
Endurance is also important.
The recruitment process is long
and there are many assessments to
pass. Many face difficulties and
give up. In order to become a
Police officer you need to be able
to endure all the difficulties and
find ways to overcome them.
Jessica: Was there an incident
you attended to that was particularly
significant to you?
Chris: Sometimes the Police
have to inform family members
and friends of a sudden or unexpected
death and work together to
find out what may have happened.
For me, I feel privileged to be able
to help them by providing the
information they need and to consoling
them.
Jessica: Do you recommend
the NZ Police as a worthwhile
career?
Chris: Yes. I would recommend
people join NZ Police. If you are
a person who likes a variety of
duties and you wish to work for
an organisation that will provide
career opportunities, then you
should make an effort to attend
the recruitment seminar.

04 JULY 2016 EDITION | WEBSITE: filipinonews.nz | EMAIL: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz | CELLPHONE: 027 4958477 | Facebook: Filipino Migrant News
Eating and Dieting.
The ‘full’ story by Lilla Sevillano
The other day in the
lunchroom at work two
female colleagues were
deep in discussion regarding
dietary concerns and
how sugar, carbohydrates
and salt are so bad for the
health.
They continued discussing
about counting
calories and how when
going to the grocery to
closely read the labels for
the sugar and salt content
as well as the kilojoules
for every gram.
Listening to them and
not really participating in
the conversation, the
thought struck me about
how 'funny' White people
can be.
For them, eating and
preparing food has
become quite a task and
not the lovely, exhilarating
event it can be.
Then I thought of how
we Asians do not necessarily
approach our food that
way. We savour, we enjoy,
we eat, we live!
I do not think that our
traditional foods are
unhealthy - we've been
eating them for centuries -
and yet I do not think that
we develop illnesses based
on our food intake.
One colleague - another
Asian and present as well
at the time of said incident
- after I pointed this
thought out said that more
and more Asians are developing
diabetes from
unhealthy food practices
and choices.
Ah yes, but I pointed out
to him that they are those
who have adopted the
Western way of eating and
food choices.
Think back to our own
ways of eating as we were
growing up. Did we develop
diabetes? Did our parents
do so? Did our grandparents,
aunts, uncles or
cousins do so? Did we
count calories, sugar content
or salt content? I think
not.
If they did get sick then
there was possibly a contributing
factor outside of
the eating, like genetics
perhaps.
My philosophy is that
we can eat whatever we
want, as long as it is in
moderation. Certainly,
when one consumes too
much of one thing,
whether it be coffee, alcohol,
or sugar, then it will
definitely affect our bodies.
Research today will say
that chocolate is bad, then
tomorrow it is not. Wine is
not good, claims one
research study; a couple of
years later another study
repudiates this.
If we swing from one
extreme to another then we
live in constant anxiety
and fear and deprive ourselves
of enjoying life and
eating.
So, my honest personal
view is to keep all things
in balance. Only by doing
so can we really live
instead of merely existing.
Editor - This is a regular
column by Lilla Sevillano, a
Filipino academic.
The Heart Foundation is
calling on Kiwis to put aside
their 'she'll be right attitude'
and dial 111 immediately if
they suspect they or another
person is having a heart
attack.
Heart Foundation Medical
Director Dr Gerry Devlin
said that too many New
Zealanders are placing
themselves at increased risk
of death or permanent heart
damage by putting off that
important call.
Gerry, who works as an
Interventional Cardiologist
at Waikato Hospital, said
that it could be frustrating to
see people turning up at an
emergency department
many hours after heart
attack symptoms began.
“The traditional Kiwi
'she'll be right' attitude can
be fatal,” Gerry said.
“When a heart attack happens
life-threatening rhythm
problems are common.
Therefore, early access to a
defibrillator is really important
to save lives. This is
why we recommend calling
111 immediately. Also, the
earlier the blocked artery is
opened up the less long-term
damage there is to the heart
muscle. Speed is critical.”
Gerry said that the Heart
Heart
attack
sufferers
delaying
111 calls
Foundation's own research
shows that people often
overthink the need to call an
ambulance.
“People can hesitate for a
number of reasons, including
a sense of embarrassment,
uncertainty about
whether a person is having a
heart attack or not, and even
feeling that they somehow
need permission from others
before dialling 111.
“In this kind of situation
people can start secondguessing
themselves and
doubts can creep in, leading
to inaction.”
Gerry said that it's vital
that all Kiwis are aware of
the symptoms of a heart
attack and act with urgency.
“It's okay to call for an
ambulance, even if it turns
out not to be a heart attack.
Let the medical professionals
do their job and determine
whether the patient is
having a potentially lifethreatening
event or not.”
Symptoms of a heart
attack can include: chest discomfort
lasting 10 minutes
or more, pain that spreads to
the jaw, shoulders or back,
excessive sweating, shortness
of breath and nausea.
“It's not always the dramatic
chest-crushing pain
that people imagine it to be.”
Gerry said that women
sometimes experience different
symptoms to men.
“Like men, the most common
heart attack symptom
for women is chest pain or
discomfort. However,
women are more likely to
experience other less obvious
symptoms such as discomfort
in the upper back,
nausea, sweating and unusual
fatigue.”
“Heart disease is New
Zealand's biggest killer,
claiming more than one life
every 90 minutes. Many of
these deaths could be prevented
if people were able to
recognise the symptoms and
dial 111.”
(Text supplied.)
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06 JULY 2016 EDITION | www.filipinonews.nz | email: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz | PINOY NZ Life 2016 Facebook: Filipino Migrant News
A Celebration of Culture: Our Experiences
the spiel: “it gave me the
time to actually look at the
reasons why I love being a
Filipino.”
By MARIAH ALYSSA
MEDEL
AUCKLAND - On the
18th June 2016 some
young Filipinos decided to
give back to their culture
by sharing the essence of it
with their kapwa Pinoys
through the art of fashion.
The Maginoo at Binibining
Filipino News NZ
Cultural Fashion Show
2016 took place at
Westlake Boys High
School on a Saturday
afternoon, with
sixteen young participants
from Auckland
and Hamilton.
The show had
three portions: casual,
Kiwiana, and
Erika Navarro and
Justin Ilustrisimo
from Hamilton.
Clothes designed
by Frances Martirez.
Filipiniana.
The first part of the show
enabled the participants to
show the judges and the
audience aspects of their
personalities.
They were given the task
of choosing indigenous
accessories to liven up their
plain white t-shirt and
black jeans outfits.
Through this they also
showed the influences of
their own regional cultures.
It was also the portion in
the show where the participants
had to introduce
themselves and to talk
about the cultural journey
they had embarked on upon
competing in MAB.
“We all managed to say
what we meant to say. Even
though some of us made
mistakes in delivering our
speeches it was still our
best as it came from the
heart with the utmost sincerity.”
Xena Lasam says about
Maria Baldaraje
with her mum
continues on
pg 07
Micaela Mejia and Arnel Agor Jr. in casual wear

JULY 2016 EDITION | www.filipinonews.nz | email: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz | PINOY NZ Life 2016 Facebook: Filipino Migrant News 07
continues from pg 06
A Celebration of Culture:
Our Experiences
Candidates in
Kiwiana costumes
provided by Sewtec
Fashion Academy
Above: Julie Rice (left) and Didi
Virata (right) of PAL present Ginno
Gomez the prize (return ticket to
Manila) for the ‘Best Cultural
Designer’ award at the Maginoo at
Binibining Filipino News NZ 2016
Cultural Fashion Show.
The Kiwiana section of
the show allowed us to
connect our native culture
with the present
one we live in today,
Aotearoa. The participants
were
given the opportunity
to wear
beautifully
made and designed
Kiwiana
costumes provided
by Sewtec Fashion
Academy. This portion of
the show truly proved
how multi-cultural the
Filipino
community
is; not only consisting
of the
culture within
our country,
but also
Sheena Meryl proudly modelling
the winning Filipiniana dress designed
by Ginno Gomez. It is one of five dresses
that Ginno designed for the ‘MAB Best
Cultural Designer 2016’ competition.
Woven palm leaf mats or BANIG serve as the base of
the dress, enhanced by leaf-like patterns from paper
to acquire the mermaid look and accentuated with
circular patterns made from coconut fibres and
from banana stalks called ABACA.
A woven fan was used to execute the Philippine Terno
sleeves, also known as ‘butterfly’ or Imelda sleeves.
of cultures
around
t h e
world. “A
blend of different cultures
and influences combined
into one.”
The last part of the show
was the Filipiniana portion,
which showed off beautiful
traditional clothing made
by Frances Martinez,
Ginno Gomez and other
designers. This part of the
show was a favourite of the
participants as the Filipiniana
was symbolic of our
national pride.
When asked what she felt
when wearing her
Filipiniana
gown, Macy
Dado said. “I
can see through the eyes of
the wearers of the dress,
what they might have felt . .
. like their pride towards
their culture. I felt like a
modern day Cinderella.”
Cianell Navarro also
said that it was the “main
highlight of the MAB”.
Wearing the Maria
Clara also made Xena
Lasam feel like a “legit
Filipina”.
The opportunity to wear
such beautiful gowns is
rare, so the rare feeling that
came with it made the
experience truly special. A
great culmination of all the
hard work we had done
preparing for the show.
Throughout the whole
process of MAB, from the
preparation to the final
show, the participants will
always keep the rehearsals
close to their hearts. The
most valuable thing Xena
Jem Santos in a Maria Clara
Lasam took from the process
was the friendships she
made, which we all hope
will be long-lasting.
continues
on pg 8

08 JULY 2016 EDITION | www.filipinonews.nz
continues from pg 07
A Celebration of Culture: Our Experiences
We gathered together
as a group of young
Filipinos who were a
bit out of touch with
our native culture. The
experience has bonded
us together, as we all
came out of it with
more knowledge of,
love for and pride in the
Philippines. After the
event we all felt like
winners of the show,
because it gave back
more to us than we put
into it.
The Binibining Filipino
News NZ of 2016,
Sheena Meryl, said of the
process. “Rehearsing and
meeting everyone would
probably be some of the
most memorable experiences.
The candidates
make the show. Without
everyone's warmth and
From the left: Vincent Sacay, Justine Groen, Alyx Ty, Ayana
Menorca and Ronald Rieza
friendliness the show
would not have been as
enjoyable.”
Of winning
she
said. “I
feel fantastic!
I
have never
had that
many photos
taken
of me
before, so it felt very
overwhelming. Each and
every candidate in the
show were all beautiful
and unique; we all
deserved a prize! I am
grateful to represent the
NZ Philippines Binibining
in the year 2016. It is
definitely one of my best
moments of ho-nour and
joy.”
We, the participants in
MAB 2016, would like to
thank all of the organisers,
Tita Sheila and Mel
Fernandez, the judges,
Kuya Alyx and the
designers for giving us the
opportunity of a lifetime.
It is an experience we will
never forget because of
what we learnt from it and
because of the bonds we
have made with our
kapwa Filipinos. The gift
of connecting with our
culture on our long journeys
of finding our own
identities is truly one that
we will treasure for a long
time.
The Tabulators - from left: Angelica Clark, Emilie Sacay,
Seresa Lapaz, Filipino Students Association volunteers
Editor - Mariah Alyssa
Medel, a columnist for
Filipino Migrant News,
was a contestant in the
MAB Cultural Show
2016 and won the award
‘Best in Kiwiana’.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
ORGANIZER & MEDIA
PARTNER:
Filipino Migrant News
www.maginooatbinibini.nz
SPONSORS:
• Philippine Airlines
• Sewtec Fashion Academy
• Planet Earth Travel
• Mila Baker - Barfoot &
Thompson, Pt Chevalier
• Cora Noblejas
• Kvella New Zealand
Artesian Water
• Gion Japanese Restaurant
• Pepito Silverio Salon
• Embroidery & Monogram
Services
JUDGES:
• Cora Noblejas
• Anita Mansell, QSM
• Silvia Zonoobi, ONZM
FASHION DESIGNERS:
• Ginno Gomez
• Frances Martirez
EMCEES:
• Vincent Sacay
• Ayana Menorca
CHOREOGRAPER: Alyx Ty
AUDIO & VISUAL: Xtreme
Creationz Ltd.
MAKE-UP ARTIST: Jhancy
Inglis
CONTESTANTS:
• Sheena Meryl
• Cianell Navarro
• Maria Baldaraje
• Micaela Mejia
• Erika Navarro
• Macy Dado
• Alyssa Medel
• Jem Santos
• Xena Lasam
• Kamia Maligsay
• Arnel Agor Jr.
• Justin Ilustrisimo
• Ericson Pascua
• Sheldon Benito
• Jhon Carl
• Jenz Santos
ARTISTS:
• David Correos
• Pretty Asian Theatre
• Dianne Montierro
• Friends of MABs - Ethnic
dances from North & South
TABULATORS:
• Emilie Sacay
• Angelica Clark
• Seresa Lapaz
FRIENDS OF MABs:
• Susan Matencio
• Justin Groen
• Ronald Rieza
• Ayla Matencio
PHOTOGRAPHERS:
• Freelanzer Photography
• Smartshots Photography
• Seyer Photoghraphy

JULY 2016 EDITION | www.filipinonews.nz | email: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz | PINOY NZ Life 2016 Facebook: Filipino Migrant News 09
A word from
Sheila Mariano
the Organiser
Thank You, Thank
You, Thank You!
Every year I learn
something new, discover
hidden talents and overcome
fresh challenges
while organising Maginoo
at Binibining Filipino
News NZ (MAB),
now into its fourth year.
First of all, I have to
say this: I couldn't be
more proud of the sixteen
participants in this year’s
MAB. Thanks, each and
every one of you.
As always, we couldn't
have done it without the
support of a huge number
of people.
The Sponsors, in particular
Philippine Airlines
who believed in us
and supported us, the
various community
groups and individuals,
our creative partners -
fashion designers, sound,
lights, choreography and
stage managers and the
professional photographers.
Thank you all from the
bottom of my heart.
Sheila Mariano, Organiser.
continues on pg 10
continues from pg 08
A Celebration of Culture:
Our Experiences
Arnel Mapalo Agor Jr.:
“Naimbag nya maleum, Kia ora and
Good afternoon to you all. My name is
Arnel Mapalo Agor Jr., from Baguio City,
Philippines. I am 17 years old and I
aspire to become a civil engineer in the
near future.
“Growing up, I was raised in a foreign
country completely away from my roots
where I never got to experience Filipino
culture very much. Although, while I was
overseas the heart of the nation followed
me wherever I went and through that I
was able to see how hard working and
dedicated Filipinos are.
“What I love about the Philippines is
the people; globally we are known to be
hardworking, resilient, dedicated and
also hospitable.
“So, ladies and gentlemen, what I
learned from this cultural fashion show is
that I finally know where I came from and
the history of my nation. I couldn't be
prouder to be a Filipino than I am today.
I believe that the people make the country
and that God is the centre of it.
“Lastly, as a proud citizen of the
Philippines I aspire to become an example,
a role model, to the younger generation
of the Philippines, where success
comes through hard work and especially
from the Almighty.”
Sheena Meryl
Binibining Filipino News NZ 2016:
“Maayong hapon sa inyong
tanan! Living here in NZ for over
20 years has kept me out of
touch with the Filipino ways of
life. That's why I am honoured
to be able to participate in this
event where I can reconnect with
the Filipino culture, refresh my
memory of old traditions and of
course, meet new friends.”
Ericson Dela Cruz Pascua
Maginoong Filipino News NZ 2016:
“Kia ora, good afternoon to you
all. Ako po si Ericson Pascua
from Hamilton and I am an
Ilocano. I am a professional chef
that is passionate about discovering
the taste of Filipino cuisine.
This opportunity allows me
to immerse myself into my cultural
heritage and also to reconnect
with the Filipino community and
my family. I humbly want to thank
God, also Tita Sheila and Mel for
this experience and for using me
as an instrument to show you
what a pure Filipino really is in
New Zealand. Mabuhay tayo
lahat. Kia Kaha.”

10 JULY 2016 EDITION | www.filipinonews.nz | email: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz | PINOY NZ Life 2016 Facebook: Filipino Migrant News
continues from pg 09
A Celebration of Culture:
Our Experiences
Mary Jesl Xena Rae Lasam:
“Magandang hapon sa inyong
lahat! My name is Mary Jesl Xena
Rae Lasam, 18 years old, from
Manila. Tonight Maginoo at
Binibining has given me the
opportunity to showcase Filipino
talent and beauty. Through it I
have been given the chance to
dwell on the essence of being a
Filipino and what makes us distinct
in the glo-bal community.
“After spending 17 years of my
life in the Philippines I realised
that there are two things that
make us different from the rest;
our resiliency and our hospitality.
It is only in the Philippines that
you can find people who continue
to fight, hope and smile regardless
of their difficulties. And
despite the challenges Filipinos
face we never forget to care
about others.
“Our astonishing beauty, amazing
talents and strong resilience
are the best reasons why I love
to be called ... A FILIPINA.”
Macy Dado:
“Magandang hapon sa inyong
lahat. I'm Macy Dado. I'm
19 years old and I'm currently
in my second year at Uni,
studying a Bachelor of
Nursing. Originally I'm from
Makati, but my family and I
moved to New Zealand when I
was only 10 years of age.
Although I've surrounded
myself with fellow Filipinos I've
always felt as if I've lost touch
with my culture throughout
these 9 years.
“This cultural show has given
me the opportunity to meet
other Filipinos and although
we've only known each other
as a group for a couple of
weeks we've already shared
countless moments of laughter.
“We were also given the
opportunity to wear beautiful
traditional clothing from different
parts of the Philippines
and to dance the janggay
(which we'll be performing
later tonight).
“All in all this experience has
helped me appreciate not only
the beauty, diversity and richness
of our culture, but it has
also opened my eyes to see
that all Filipinos, no matter
how different we may be, have
one thing in common, which is
to be proud of our culture.
Joining Maginoo at Binibining
has made me feel proud of
being Filipino and also made
me feel more connected to my
Filipino roots as well. Thank
you and mabuhay.”
Mariah Alyssa Medel:
“Maayong hapon kanin-yong
tanan! I am Alyssa Medel, 18
years of age, from the pearl of
the south, Davao City! Through
participating in this fashion
show I embarked on a cultural
journey that strengthened my
sense of patriotism and Filipino
pride.
“I connected with my culture,
touched up on my roots and
learnt to embrace the gift my
ancestors gave me. I am Bisaya,
Tagalog, Chavacano and so
much more; so many origins
within one country. This is what
Filipino culture is; a blend of different
cultures and influences
combined into one. That is what
my ancestors gave me; a
colourful, diverse and complex
culture, the essence of which we
are all sharing with you today
through this fashion show.
Mabuhay!”
Ethnic dances from the North and South
by Friends of MABs
Cianell Navarro:
“Kapamilya, kapatid, kaibigan,
aking mga kababayan.
Magandang hapon mga hurado,
mga Maginoo at magandang
binibini. Ako nga pala si
Cianell Anne Mer S. Navarro,
labing siyam na taong gulang
at nagmula sa Espana, Manila.
Taos puso kong ikinagagalak
na maging parte sa patimpalak
na ito na siyang nagbibigay
buhay sa natatanging
sining at kultura ng Pilipinas
dito sa Aoteroa. Dahil dito,
nagkaroon ako ng mga
bagong kaibigan at mas napatunayan
ko ang aking pagmamahal
sa ating inang bayan
at kapwa Pilipino. Ito rin ang
na-ging
daan
para
sakin
hindi lang
para
maka
suot ng
mga marilag
na
damit at tanggapin ang mga
palakpak ninyo, kundi pati na
rin ang patunayan sa sarili ko,
na walang imposible dahil ako
ay isang Pilipino!”
continues below
MABuhay! Four in a row. Salamat Po!
Every year I learn
something new, discover
hidden talents and
overcome fresh challenges
while organising
Maginoo at Binibining
Filipino News NZ (MAB),
now into its fourth year.
First of all, I have to say
this: I couldn't be more
proud of the sixteen participants
in this year’s MAB.
Thanks, each and every one
of you.
As always, we couldn't
have done it without the
support of a huge number of
people.
SPONSORS: Our naming
rights sponsor -
Philippine Airlines. The
generous event sponsors:
Avida Land, Ayala Land,
Planet Earth Travel, Mila
Baker of Barfoot &
Thompson Real Estate,
Sewtec Fashion Academy,
Frances Martirez, Ginno
Mila Baker
Gomez and the other
designers of the cultural
wear. Cora Noblejas for
sponsoring the trophies and
flowers. Madam Emilie Shi
for the gift vouchers. Pepito
Silverio Salon and Francisco
Corpus.
COMMUNITY: The
assistance of various community
groups, individuals
and friends of MABs.
Filipino
Radio Stations.
The
talented
G u e s t
Artists. The
VIP Judges.
The Tabulators.
The
Two Filipino-Kiwi Stand-up
Comedians James Roque
and David Correos at MAB
amazing Emcees. And more
…
PARTNERS: Alyx Ty of
Topstar Entertainment - for
choreography and stage
management. Dexter Ycong
of Xtreme Creationz for
sound and audio.
Professional Photographers
- SmartShots NZ,
Freelanzer Photography and
Renz Reyes.
Thank you all from the
bottom of my heart.
Sheila Mariano, Organiser
TITA CLAUDIA’S LECHON
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T R A D I T I O N A L L Y C O O K E D T H E
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M: 021 190 0871 or 021 121 0911
P: (09) 813 1041
E: rrmenchavez@yahoo.co.nz
Facebook page Tita Claudia’s Lechon
Call or text us your order. Free delivery within Auckland.
Plus a free bottle of Lechon sauce.

JULY 2016 EDITION | www.filipinonews.nz | email: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz | PINOY NZ Life 2016 Facebook: Filipino Migrant News 11
Boleros dethrones the Minions.
Foto: Sarrah Cope
Avenging their finals defeats of last two years
By SARRAH COPE
FMN Sports Editor
Third time's a charm for
TNComms Boleros as they
dethroned two-time champions
Ardex Minions, 82-
78, to claim the championship
crown in the concluding
LS Banal Basketball
Tournament on July 2
in Kelston Boys High
School Gym.
It was Rey Burgos' firepower
at the centre for
Boleros that clinched
it, plus another strong
performance from
Bong Eldialde which
saw both players with
the double-double output
of 19 points and 12
rebounds each, while Pao
Fajardo shot some sensational
baskets late in the
fourth quarter to protect
their lead from the Minions.
“This championship was
really special because
TNComms Boleros receiving their trophy from Lito Banal
everyone was motivated to
achieve this,” said TN-
Comms Boleros' coach
Niño Abordo, named Best
Coach of the tournament.
Boleros' achievement
wasn't only satisfying but
was also the sweetest as
they have avenged the
finals defeats they endured
over the past two years
against the Minions.
“We had to adjust because
they were too fast,”
said Abordo, referring to
the smaller line-up of the
Minions. “We couldn't trap;
we couldn't keep up because
we were too big.
Luckily we were able to
adjust.”
Down only by five points
in the first quarter, it was
enough motivation not to
be a runner-up again after
Boleros registered a 10-2
blast to gain momentum
and never looked back.
Hebron Canlas and JD
Tagimacruz started a 10-2
Patrick Maagdenberg
named Season MVP,
Best in Rebounds and
Mythical 5 player
run in an attempt to rally a
comeback in the fourth
quarter to put the Minions
within striking distance, 70-
73, with 5:15 left on the
clock, but the hustle of
Burgos and Fajardo were
enough to protect the lead
for Boleros.
continues on pg 12

12 JULY 2016 EDITION | www.filipinonews.nz | email: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz | PINOY NZ Life 2016 Facebook: Filipino Migrant News
Boleros dethrones the Minions.
continues from pg 11
Named Finals' MVP,
Burgos made some big
playoffs in the fourth quarter
in order for Boleros to
thwart any attempt by their
counterparts, while Fajardo
spent some quality minutes
off the bench.
“It was such an honour to
be named as Finals MVP,
but I really have to commend
my teammates because
we would not have
achieved this without a
team effort,” said Burgos.
Hebron Canlas, JD
Tagimacruz and Patrick
Maagdenberg combined
scored 59 points for the
Minions but came up short
as they missed
basket after basket
in the dying
minutes of the
fourth quarter
due to the
swarming
defense by Boleros.
In the battle for
third place Dimond
carved out
a come-frombehind
win after
a breakout second half en
route to a 85-59 win against
Green Crate.
The Ruvas brothers
Gino, Khino and Brian,
combined scored 38 points,
12 rebounds and 10 steals
to spearhead the revenge of
Dimond after last year's
loss to the Greens.
Four Greens players
logged double figures in
points but came up short of
getting another third placer.
Mark Lapus and RS
Servitillo logged 13 points
each while John Reyes and
Ivan Santos had 12 a piece.
A short awards ceremony
gave recognition to the
individual top performers
in different categories of
the WAFSA-organized
PH Ambassador to NZ
Jesus ‘Gary’ Domingo
graced this
Championship event
From left: Ronan Isip, Lito Banal,
Macpe Bermudez and Patrick Pardo
tournament.
Maagdenberg was
named Season MVP and
Best in Rebounds, as well
as Mythical 5 player along
with Kris Patriarca,
Eldialde, Burgos and Gino
Ruvas. Tagimacruz, Hebron
Canlas, Jhay Salonga,
Perry Salas, Rad Ancla,
Mark Lachama and
Jeremy Waay completed
the Mythical team.
The Rookie team consisted
of Ancla, Waay,
Jonathan Realista, Mickie
Lapus and G. Ruvas, who
also bagged the Discovery
of the Year and Best in
Steals medals.
Eldialde took home the
3-point Shootout champion
trophy, while Jan
Michael Latosa was
named Most Improved
Player.
The Sportsmanship
award was awarded to
Andrei Estonactor, Scoring
Champion to Patriarca,
Block Shot recognition
to Salonga, Best in Assist
to Ancla and Daniel De
Silva was awarded Mr.
Quality Minutes.
Editor: Sarrah Cope is the
recipient of the Outstanding
Sports Writer Award, Filipino-
Kiwi Hero Awards 2016.

JULY 2016 EDITION | WEBSITE: filipinonews.nz | EMAIL: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz | CELLPHONE: 027 4958477 | Facebook: Filipino Migrant News 13
By SARRAH COPE
FMN Sports Editor
MANILA - Many people
doubted that People's
Champion Manny Pacquiao
would really turn
his back on the sport that
catapulted him onto the
pound-for-pound list of
the best boxers in the
world after he pronounced
his retirement
months before he won his
last fight.
It seems now that most
were right that the eightdivision
champion and
Filipino sensation Pacquiao
would take only
months to un-retire, as his
promoter Bob Arum is
gearing up for a possible
comeback in late October
Pacquiao plans to
un-retire from boxing
this year.
Pacquiao, now elected
Philippine senator after
previously holding a seat
in Congress, even told his
prized corner man
Freddie Roach that he
has not made a decision to
fight anybody yet.
Arum has yet to name
the possible opponent for
the former Ring
Magazine Fighter of the
Year Pacquiao, but Roach
only has his eyes on a
Floyd Mayweather, Jr.
rematch.
“Manny thought he
won that fight and he
would definitely want that
fight, for sure,” said
Roach in an interview
after the 12-round loss his
ward received one year
ago.
Mayweather retired
from the sport with a
clean record, but recently
hinted at a comeback.
Michael Koncz, Pacquiao's
adviser, said in a
separate interview that the
MANNY PACQUIAO:
Oath Taking Yesterday.
Great honour and privilege
to serve my country.
With my beautiful
wife Jinkee Pacquiao
and President Elect
Rodrigo Duterte.
- Posted on June 24
Fotos: Manny Pacquiao
Facebook page
General Santos native
really wants to fight, but
is concerned about his
senatorial duties and
schedules.
“Manny's primary concern
and obligation is fulfilling
his senatorial
duties, but he just misses
boxing,” said Koncz on
ESPN.com. He misses
the training; he misses
being in the gym.”
Pacquiao won a unanimous
decision in April
against Timothy Bradley
Jr. in their rubber match
at the MGM Grand
Arena in Las Vegas.
(More sports updates
can be found online:
www. filipinonews.nz)
Editor - Sarrah Cope is
the recipient of the
Outstanding Sports
Writer Award, Filipino-
Kiwi Hero Awards 2016.
Stand for
council.
AUCKLAND - Would-be Auckland
leaders keen to stand for election
in the upcoming local elections
can put their names forward as candidates
from 15 July 2016.
Nominations for candidates close
at noon on Friday 12 August 2016.
“If you're interested in representing
your community and you think
that you can contribute useful skills
and ideas then now is your chance
to be involved in the decisions that
make Auckland a great place to live
by standing for election,” says
Auckland Council Electoral
Officer Dale Ofsoske.
Elected roles for the council
include local boards, councillors
and the mayor and voters will also
get to choose district health board
representatives and licensing trust
members in some areas.
Anyone over the age of 18 can
stand for election as long as they are
a New Zealand citizen and are on
the Parliamentary Electoral Roll.
Aucklanders will choose from the
pool of candidates standing in the
elections - the people who will represent
them for the next three years.
Voting documents are posted out
from Friday 16 September 2016 and
must be received by the Electoral
Officer by noon on Election Day,
Saturday 8 October 2016.

14 JULY 2016 EDITION | WEBSITE: filipinonews.nz | EMAIL: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz | CELLPHONE: 027 4958477 | Facebook: Filipino Migrant News
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We reach the Filipino
market
To advertise: Call: 027 495 8477
or email: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz
www.filipinonews.nz

JULY 2016 WEBSITE: filipinonews.nz | EMAIL: filipinonews@xtra.co.nz | MOBILE: 027 495 8477 | FACEBOOK: Filipino Migrant News 15
Photos by: Francis Opinion
(left:) Owners - Stuart and
Marjorie Bennett (right:)
Head Chef - Vicente
Deloterio, direct from the
Bahrain operation
(below:) Friendly and
superlative service
The first 'posh'
Filipino restaurant
in New Zealand?
“The Boracay Garden Restaurant, located
in the Viaduct Harbour, takes dining to
another level,” says Mel Fernandez
AUCKLAND - In the
early days of the Filipino
diaspora to this country
Pinoy restaurants used to
pop up, then just as quickly
disappear into oblivion.
Given the small number of
Filipino residents at that
time and the fact that
Filipino cuisine does not
have universal appeal compared
to some of the other
Asian cuisines, these establishments
could never sustain
their operations for
long.
However, over the last
five years things have
changed. As the number of
Filipino migrants settling
here started increasing dramatically
there was a corresponding
rise in demand for
dining outlets.
Currently there are
around eight Filipino eateries
and just as many pop-up
food sellers operating in the
Auckland area alone. They
range from a couple of
upscale restaurants, several
laid back cafes, 'turo-turo'
takeaways and low-cost
pop-up food stalls at night
markets.
These days, for that extra
special occasion - say to
entertain your Kiwi or
Pinoy clients or friends,
overseas visitors and family
gatherings - you are spoilt
for choice. But my money
is on the Boracay Garden
Restaurant that opened
earlier this year. It is
arguably the only upscale
Filipino restaurant in New
Zealand - a gastronomic
jewel even.
For one thing, Boracay
has a prime upmarket location:
the Viaduct Harbour,
right in the heart of the City
of Sails. Then there's that
resort-like ambience that
diners love to capture in
their selfies, along with
really classy decor. The
crowning glory is the carefully
selected authentic
regional dishes, lovingly
prepared by hand picked
chefs.
This restaurant will definitely
appeal to the more
discriminating Filipino diners.
And another clear indication
of its success is the
fact that other nationalities
are starting to come
through the door to try
Filipino cuisine. But, as
you would expect, Pinoy
customers outnumber them.
(Was that Kim Dotcom's
Pinoy executive chef dining
there the other day?)
The owners of the restaurant
are Stuart (a Kiwi) and
Marjorie Bennett (a Filipina),
who moved here
from Bahrain.
They brought with them
a wealth of experience and
a burning passion to create
New Zealand's first upscale
Filipino restaurant serving
authentic regional Filipino
cuisine. As the pair have
hotel and restaurant management
experience and
Marjorie has run similar
restaurants in the Middle
East, they are well on track
to establishing Boracay
Garden as the first 'posh'
Filipino restaurant in New
Zealand.
We wondered why they
chose 'Boracay Garden' as
the name for their venture?
party, once with guests
from overseas and once for
my wife’s birthday. The
experience has always been
memorable - we felt welcome
and well taken care
of. And the food we ordered
was heartwarming, traditional
food.
Not being big fans of
Filipino entrees our group
ordered several mains like
the Inihaw na Bangus
(whole) and Sinigang na
Baboy in a clay pot to
share.
“You must try our
Other stars on the menu
are the Beef Steak Tagalog
and the Pork Liempo
(Grilled Pork Belly), both
of which we re-ordered on
our second visit.
For dessert our kids never
go past the national dessert
Halo Halo. We saved room
to try the Bilo-Bilo and
Leche flan.
The Boracay has an
extensive Filipino menu as
well as a small selection of
Asian dishes for the not so
adventurous diners. By the
way, the staff will recom-
Guests at the
Restaurant’s
launch party
earlier this year.
The Boracay Garden
Restaurant has a prime
upmarket location:
the Viaduct Harbour,
right in the heart of
the City of Sails.
“Boracay is a name people
can identify right away
as Filipino,” Marjorie
explained. “Boracay is
close to where we lived in
the Philippines - Roxas
City - just a 3-hour drive
away, so we holidayed
there a lot.” There are huge
paintings of Boracay beach
scenes adorning the walls
of the restaurant that give
diners a nostalgic backdrop
to take selfies in front of.
I have dined there on
three occasions: thanks for
the invite to the launch
Sizzling Sisig,” prompted
Marjorie. This dish is jestfully
referred to as 'dangerously
delicious' because the
original Pork Sisig recipe
makes use of pig brain as a
binder and uses fatty parts
of the pig such as the ears,
jowl and snout plus a dollop
of chicken liver. A New
York Times review called
Sisig 'arguably the greatest
pork dish on earth'. Being a
bit squeamish we picked
the chicken version of this
world famous Pampangan
dish.
mend suitable wines to pair
with your food selection.
Red Horse Beer is my
choice with 'Sisig'.
Another visit to Boracay
Gardens is on the cards in
order to try the Bicol
Express, Lechon Kawali,
Tinola, Pinakbet and
Palabok that some diners
are raving about on
Facebook.
I'd say that this is definitely
a go-to place when
dining with friends, but it
would be prudent to book
ahead.

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