CENTERFOLD:

May-June 2009

by Renaliza Chavez

As chef of the Embassy of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg in Japan, Madame Josefa Nistal, more commonly known as Josie, juggles making gourmet food for high-ranking officials and playing her role as president of one of Japan’s longest-running Filipino associations – the Samahang Pilipino, Tokyo.

It is not easy being a chef for an embassy that parties a lot and, at the same time, be in charge of a very active association. Yet, regardless of her small frame, this Bohol Island native has already whipped up a buffet she painstakingly prepared for more than 700 hungry guests during one of Luxembourg’s national holiday and oversee all the big events Samahang Pilipino has organized over the past year.

Hers are titles to be proud of indeed. But for this farmer’s daughter, the journey to where she is now has, as we all might expect it, not been very easy. She had to leave her small town of Dauis to work for a Manila-based Italian family and at the same time continue her high-school education at Arellano University in Pasay.

Her love of cooking later compelled her to briefly study baking under one of the Philippines’ most renowned chefs, Ms. Sylvia Reynoso-Gala and then later put this education to use by making “ensaymaditas” and selling these or accepting orders from households nearby.

“Blame it on the genes,” she says, for cooking apparently runs in the family. Her grandfather made a living as a local cook hired from town to town during fiestas, birthdays and other special occasions. Her grandmother was the town’s best “kakanin” or local sweets maker during her days. And like Josie, a number of her siblings, too, are cooks.

Josie took an online culinary education at the International Corresponding School-Pennsylvania while working for the Italian family that brought her along to Japan. This is why Josie’s menu consists mostly of European cuisines that added to her advantage when she got her major break in 1996. It was when a fellow Filipina chef told her about the Luxembourg embassy’s need of a chef.

Being 14th in the list of applicants, Josie did not expect to stand-out among the group. Applicants were normally given a 1-2 week job trial. However, due to her very likeable personality, the then ambassador and his wife asked Josie to come for an on-the-spot, one-day cookout. She vividly remembers being pushed to the limits when they asked her to prepare a full-course dinner, with fresh pasta on the menu and make-use of only whatever ingredient is available in the fridge.

Although the house was filled with cookbooks, she was told there were none to further test her skills and resourcefulness. Hours later, stir-fried steamed spinach, freshly-made tagliatelle with fresh tomato sauce and panacotta for dessert wowed the political couple. And considering that the pasta she made was coincidentally the ambassador’s favorite, Josie had it all going for her.

With that potent mix of luck, skill and endurance, she heard the words, “We don’t know what you think of the job Josie but we are hiring you.” And as if things weren’t good-enough yet, they even paid her for that test.

At the present, Josie has been in the Luxembourg Embassy for 11 years going on 12 doing what she does best. She has fed the Royal Family of Japan and testifies that it was the tensest moment of her cooking career. Her cooking has been praised by innumerable number of high-ranking guests, one of whom was the Hyatt Hotel manager who personally thanked her and called her “small but terrible.”

“I take great pleasure in seeing people finish their meals, eating all the food because by then I know they liked it. I think the most rewarding feeling of all is to be summoned into the dining hall and be showered with praises and applause from such big people. All the exhaustion just fades away when they thank you for the wonderful meal. You can’t help but be better at what you do.”

Her cooking is not merely her job; it is, in itself, her art. “It isn’t enough that the food tastes great, the presentation or “plating” has to be as great, too. It adds up to the whole experience. Kind of like when it is served to them, they are filled and satisfied just by looking at it. Sometimes to the point where they feel bad about eating it because it just looks so good!”

Josie is proud to say that she has been in this job for a long time, no matter how nerve-racking it can be sometimes. “It’s so stressful if you come to think of it. The thing about cooking here is you have to constantly think of new things so as not to bore the bosses. At times, you also have to cook in huge volumes and there’s no room for error. I am the only chef here and you can just imagine how it is when the embassy is holding big events. However, if you love your job, it doesn’t feel like working anymore. Like in my case, I get to enjoy it because I love what I do.”

But though Josie is in a position her fellow Filipinos can be proud of, it seems not everybody is happy about it. “There are people who will try to put you down. There are some fellow Filipinos themselves, fellow chefs or cooks that instead of being happy for you end up being envious of how you are doing. I ignore them as long as I know I’m not stepping on anybody’s toes and not doing anything wrong. Me, I am proud of knowing that the chef in the White House is Filipino. I don’t feel envious. I feel proud and it makes me strive to be better at what I do.”

As for her role as President of Samahang Pilipino, she handles such a big responsibility with flair and effectiveness — an admirable trait in a woman who already has enough stress in her daily life. Being a chef and being president is similar in a way. A chef is responsible for people’s satisfaction and the food they put in their stomach. A president is responsible for the satisfaction and well-being of her constituents. Josie is both. It seems that being in her line of work has helped her in being an effective president. And when it comes to the hectic schedule, it’s all about time management and putting your priorities in the right places.

Now Josie feels proud, in a very humble manner ironically, at her achievements and all the fruits of her hard work. She claims that her greatest prides are seeing her two daughters grow to be fine young women and that she has given her family a good life and more than what they and she herself could ask for. The learning is constant as she has always said, “Keep striving. Keep practicing. Our brains are like knives. They need to be sharpened to stay sharp.”

March-April 2009

EMI WATANABE: A Star on Ice

by Dennis Sun & Irene Sun-Kaneko

Admit it! Whether we Filipinos could ice skate or not, we are just glued to the television set every time we see these ice princesses compete against each other with their poised pirouettes, lofty leaps and graceful glides. Some of my friends in Tokyo would stay awake all night to catch the live telecast of a winter olympic game of figure skating from 3 AM till 5 AM at Tokyo time and take the day off the following day all in the name of ice skating!

Admit it! Whether you have been to an ice rink or not, we just love these stars on the ice. They twinkle. They shine. Dorothy Hammil, Nancy Kerrigan, Michelle Kwan. We all know them. Even for the many of us Filipinos who never ice skated even just once in our lifetime let alone saw snow, we just love and adore these stars on ice. And I remember my friends trying to ice skate on dry land pretending to be olympic ice skaters. Yes, ice skating is popular not only in the tropical Philippines but even in the driest of Sahara desert. It's just fun watching them glide on the ice---soar, jump and turn. And there's more fun when the drama and intrigues begin with each fall and fit of jealousy on the ice like the Nancy Kerrigan and Tonya Harding case.

February 2009
We are here in TBS Sacas, Akasaka in Tokyo. Emi Watanabe invited us to attend an ice skating show of her students and proteges. Some are still very young, cute kids ready to explore the world of ice skating while some are already champions at junior level competitions being prepared to be the next winter olympians.

Emi Watanabe is the pioneer figure skater in Japan. She came at a time when Japanese only knew about baseball. But then, she began setting the standard for Japanese figure skating. Because of her, figure skating in Japan became more popular than baseball. And because of her, non-white skaters were able to be accepted in the international level of competition. And she is half Filipino!

Rewind: circa 1980
The world of international figure skating is a sport in desperate search for an Asian star though it wasn't ready for it. It was a generation of an all-white skaters in the ice rink. It was only a Japanese skater of Filipino ancestry who was able to break into the international level of figure skating. Emi Watanabe has been winning consecutively for eight years in the Japanese championships. Emi was a darling of the Japanese media being the princess of ice for several years. A year before, she garnered the bronze medal in the World Championships. Year 1980, she took the 4th place. And at the Winter Olympics, everyone was expecting her to get a higher place with her exceptional and emotion-filled performance. However, the olympic judges weren't prepared for an Asian star. Not yet. They placed her at 6th place at the final round although everyone thought she deserved much more. Because of this olympic experience, Emi decided it was time to turn professional. No more heavy and demanding practices for Emi and it's goodbye to the pressures from the media. From then on, it was the sheer joy of skating on the ice.

Rewind further: circa 1943
Emi's mother, Lydia hails from Negros island. Lydia married a Japanese in the Philippines and moved to Japan afterwards. Emi thinks it was a difficult life for her mother to have to adjust to life in Japan. Having five maids in the Philippines, she never experienced working before. We are talking about Japan that was 65 years ago. Japan then was very much unlike the modern and high tech Japan you have now. Emi wonders and admires how her mother survived her ordeal: adjusting not only to the harsh winter but to finally start using her hands to do household chores.

Forward: circa 1968
It's a mother's dream for her daughter to become an ice princess. This, too, was Lydia's dream. The family moved to America when Emi was nine years young. "Actually," recalls Emi, "it was my sister who was really into ice skating." But basing from what the mother saw, it was in Emi who had the potential of becoming not only an ice princess but an ice champion. Emi said, "My mother made me skate!" And skate she did!

Emi was 8 years old when she started to skate as an amateur ice skater. At the age of 9, she went to Minneapolis, USA, where she furthered her skills and received professional coaching.

When Emi was still a little girl studying in a Catholic elementary school, she already was abounding of voluminous energy. Even as a child, she was a force to reckon with. She would often be caught fighting with her classmates either girls or boys. She even remembers making the boys cry.

Perhaps because of her Filipino genes, she had a hard time trying to stay slim. By 12 years of age, she started to gain weight easily. She said that even one cookie would make her gain weight! At this age, she already started dieting by refraining from eating rice, bread and especially sweets. At that young age, it must really be tough not to even taste sweets. When she was practicing, her mother always started her days by serving her steak, salads and eggs for breakfast.

To compete, one has to survive the grueling practices. "I was practicing ice skating 8 hours a day and studying 4 hours!" recalls Emi. During her time, she idolized Peggy Flemming as there were no Asian ice skaters yet to idolize. It was Emi's mission for an Asian to break into the world of ice skating. Perhaps Emi was too early for her time. The judges weren't ready for a Japanese Filipino ice skater. It was only when the next Japanese olympic skater, Midori Ito, entered the scene that Japanese skaters became a fortress to conquer.

Forward: February 2009
The Department of Tourism, Tokyo brought Emi Watanabe and her students to Manila to do a series of performances at the Mall of Asia, where the largest ice skating rink in Southeast Asia is located, to promote ice skating. Fuji TV accompanied her to video her performances. Emi has choreographed several numbers for her students and she was very much excited to be in Manila and anxious how the winterless Philippines would accept her and ice skating per se. I told Emi, "It may not snow in the Philippines but figure skating is a very popular sports on TV in our country." Emi protested, "But you don't need snow and even the winter season to ice skate!" That's true. Anyway, she will be in the Philippines to share to the Filipinos the joy of ice skating! The Department of Tourism in Tokyo is hoping that by bringing Emi to the Philippines, she could attract more Japanese to visit our country.

Perhaps if we put an ice rink in some of the major department stores around the country to give more chances for the Filipino children to skate, we could produce more ice skaters of international level and bring them to compete at the world championships and winter olympics. And Emi thinks it's a dream not far in the future as Philippines is gifted with musically, rhythmically and creative Filipinos. "If we could pin point those with potentials and develop them, I'm sure the Philippines can, indeed, compete at the international level."

According to Emi, she would still advice all the mothers to push their daughters to skate if they have the potential. Adds Emi, "Ice skating is a good career for a woman. You train while you're very young. And if you're good, you get medals and fame along the way. Then, you get a lot of endorsements. That's a lot of money. After competition, you do shows. You coach. And you can teach. It's a lifetime career. And it's great!"

As for the way she sees the Filipinos in Japan, Emi says she looks up to the Filipinos here. "They work hard for the money." She said the Filipinos here are much like what she saw with the Filipinos in Hawaii---working 2-3 jobs everywhere. She says to Filipinos, "We have to take pride of our culture. There's no boundary on how we can develop ourselves. I really admire Filipinos working abroad. Filipinos are as good as the Japanese. So, don't give up, there's always a reward at the end. International marriage between Japanese and Filipinos is increasing which just proves that there is no border to love, no border to countries. I take pride with how their kids are being brought up in the loving and caring Filipino way."

Emi has conquered the ice becoming a national and world champion several times. And she has published several books as well. She still teaches ice skating to adults and children in Tokyo. Still, she has more things to accomplish especially as a mother. Emi explains, "I want to focus more on motherhood. Now that my son is 18 years old, just 2 more years before he can be independent. I enjoy watching his soccer game. He just won in the German Speech Contest. I want to be more supportive of what he wants to do in life."

Still, life does move on for Emi. "Figure skating may have been my career and one may think that joining the Olympics is the major goal. No, it doesn't stop there. Olympics is not everything. There is life after the Olympics. There is still a lot of things that can be done, that can be fulfilled. Life goes on so don't stop dreaming. I cannot fall back to being once the champion figure skater. This is my attitude to life. We have to establish ourselves and aim high always."

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January-February 2009

The Epitome... That is Tita Mely!

by Henry Tabao

Women Power! These are perhaps the best two words that describe the women of today. Through the evolution of time, women became at par

with the wits, the guts, and the strength of men. Though selectively, there are women out there who surpass the expectations of men in general.

I am so honored to know one exceptional being, a woman of strength, of vigor, of wisdom, of guts and of faith...
AMELIA IRIARTE KOHNO!!

A fruitful woman:
Amelia Iriarte Kohno was born and raised in Tacloban City, LEYTE. She earned her Chemical Engineering degree from the University of Southern

hilippines. She did not only excel in the academe but was also a Chess champion, awarded a Certificate of Honor, Ten Best Chess Players of the

Philippines, Women's Division, 1976 National Chess Championship.

"Chess intrigues me even now. It is really amazing how 2 people play with their minds from the opening, middle and end strategies. Of course,

masters can play alone. When I was young, I always took pride in knowing that my father was playing chess with then Philippine President

Carlos P. Garcia whenever he came to Tacloban. They were friends from the University of the Philippines, Diliman."
"It was my father who taught me and my 7 brothers how to play chess and win. And I started to love playing then. We had chess boards all over

the house. I often compared a chess board with my life. There are 2 sides and somebody up there is telling us that we can overcome whatever trials,

problems and sorrows we encounter in our journey through life. If we master and skillfully plan our moves, we can win. Playing chess is 'seeing

things even with our eyes closed' as winning in chess is capturing the king. A chess player must remember that there is always a way to surmount

whatever difficulties come his way."

She joined the Department of Tourism as Promotions Officer until her marriage with her Japanese husband, Mr. Kohno. Their marriage was blessed

with a beautiful and charming girl named, Aimi, who is at present a mother herself. Her grandchild, Angie, is her joy inspiring her to regularly visit

her daughter's family in Tokyo.

"I met my husband at the same University in Cebu where I was studying. Having lived in the Philippines, he was familiar with our customs,

traditions, etc. But when we started to live in Japan, I entailed many problems in communication, dificulties in understanding the different Japanese

customs, traditions, social norms and values."

A public servant:
Tita Mely, as we all call her, has made the beautiful and historic Kyoto her second home. This is where she mastered her Ikebana and her skills in

tour guiding. She has accompanied many dignitaries and famous personalities who have visited Kyoto. Tita Mely has been a Kyoto resident for

nearly 30 years now and for so many years has been involved and very active in many civic organizations.

"My husband's first job was in Kyoto 30 years ago and we have lived here since then. I love Kyoto because it is beautiful all year round in the

spring, the cherry blossoms, summer for its festivals, autumn for the maple trees and snow in winter. It is also rich in history and culture."

She has an undying quest for public service. She is not only a former President of the Philippine Ladies in Japan but also of Kyoto Pag-Asa

Filipino Community, a church-based Filipino organization that aims to provide social, emotional, and legal aid to Filipinos in distress and in

dire need of assistance. For instance, she provides bilingual interpretation for people who have no knowledge of the Japanese language,

especially those who are incarcerated and being investigated by the Japanese authorities. She also provides counseling to victims of domestic

violence together with the kind-hearted and approachable Catholic nuns in Kyoto, Shiga, Nara and Mie Prefectures.

"As I have lived in Kyoto for almost 3 decades, I have seen and I am happy to be part of the growth of the Kyoto Pag-asa Filipino community.

I am now the adviser after serving as president for 7 years."

Before becoming one of the advisers of the Philippine Community Coordinating Council (PCCC), a network of Filipino organizations in the

western Japan which aims to uplift the image of Filipinos, she chaired the core group and was known to be a feisty yet intellectual and persistent

individual. As an adviser or as an individual, she is still very visible in the community, continuously offering her assistance when needed without

any expectations of material gratitude in return.

An achiever:
Her professionalism and dedication has earned her numerous recognitions from people who believe of her exceptional contribution to the society.

She participated in the Beijing NGO Forum on Women in 1995. She was invited as one of the speakers at the 4th Global Filipino Networking

Convention on 29 September 2006 in Honolulu, Hawaii. She founded Mother Earth Connection together with Sr. Agneta Lauzon of St. Joseph

College, a non-government environmental organization that coordinates and interacts with individual community, government as well as

non-government institutions in an effort to save Mother EARTH.

"The year 2000 was when I had my first breast operation. I thought it was a very good way to helping people raise awareness on environmental

pollution which is one cause of cancer. We registered Mother Earth connection with SEC that year. Besides we had already been sponsoring

seminars on recycling technology using organic waste and other indigenous materials for livelihood projects promoting environment protection."

Humble as she is, she does always feel so grateful and very thankful for the very rewarding achievements she had. You will see her as a seasoned

individual with lustrous silver hair, petite frame with a very sweet smiling face.

A fighter:
Though behind that sweet face and fragile frame, Tita Mely is a fighter! She stands for what she construes as justice and fights for what she

believes as injustice. She fights against the odds.

All through these years that we have known Tita Mely, never for an instance did we notice that she succumbed to the challenges she was facing,

even the challenge most of us would think as a very helpless condition... the battle against CANCER. She defied the medical prognosis of 6 months

to live when she was diagnosed with the devastating cancer. Through faith in God, her willpower to live longer, and with the support of her family

and friends, she fought her very best to beat the odds. Through the help of medical science and of course, the healing power of the Almighty,

Tita Mely is currently living a fruitful life. She said, with a smile in her face, "Cancer is not to be feared of. Just have faith!"

"I was not scared of death until 3 years ago when my medical doctors told me that my tests showed I only have 3 -6 months to live. It was really

painful at first but I gradually accepted that cancer was a reality in my life. When I realized and felt deeply that my family and friends loved me

and that God must have a special plan for me. The thought of my many blessings made the difference. I thank God for this sickness because I can

help people with cancer feel better just by talking to them. Even healthy friends ask questions on how to deal with breast cancer operations,

radiation and chemo."

"At present, I have cancer in my lymph nodes so I cannot have another surgical operation in case my cancer transfers to another part of my body.

Radiation is also not advisable because I already had it. My only medical therapy is chemo and I see my oncologist every 3 weeks.
I may be physically sick but I do not think so. And I am thankful for the 'strength' I have to live each day with joy and belief in
the goodness we can give and receive."

A sister:
Amelia Kohno may not be a real Catholic nun but you will always see her surrounded by or tagged along with nuns most of the time. She is the

heart of the group of Catholic nuns in Kyoto, Shiga, Nara and Mie Prefectures, specifically the members of the Franciscan Sisters of the

Immaculate Conception of the Holy Mother of God (SFIC) assigned to the Kyoto Diocese. One would think that she must have dreamt of

becoming a nun in her younger years. Her association with the religious group has made her stronger emotionally and mentally and has also

deepened her relationship with God. Her presence in their midst made the nuns become more fun-loving and open to whatever it is that would

come their way.

"Being Filipinos, our main priority is 'family' and even in Japan, we have what we call extended families. In our community, Filipinos come to

church to 'feel at home' to lessen the pain of separation from their families, friends, and country. I think it helps improve our lives here in Japan

by working together in a community and give whatever help we can. At our church gatherings, we announce job opportunities, offer counseling

and networking with other groups offering services to help people having problems with living in Japan. It pays to have friends who care."

For the rest of us, Tita Mely, is an aunt, a mother, a sister and a friend. She is there for you through thick and thin. She will go beyond her limits

to be of help to others. That is why she is an icon and has been an inspiration for all of us.

"I wish that we Pinoys can cope up with the current increasing global economic problems and be able to overcome financial difficulties.

Our world is still a beautiful place to live in!"

She made many of us realize that there is nothing impossible in God-- that faith and belief will always lead us to truth and salvation.

"I want to write a book not only about cancer but also on 'human interests' readings - a book that can help and make people happy and bring

hope to those who have given up on life. My one dream now is to form a a 'support group' for people with cancer specially foreign residents

seeking medical treatments in Japan."

From her life, you can say that there is always enlightenment and joy in sincerity and kindness. Bravo Tita Mely! You are indeed an epitome

of a woman. Mabuhay ka!

November-December 2008

Poetry on the Piano with ABEL GALANG

Pianist Abel Galang started his musical education at age 12 from his mother Carmen. He entered the University of the Philippines College of

Music where he obtained his Bachelor of Music Degree in Piano performance. The "Grand Pix" winner of The 1992 Piano Competition in the

Philippines, pianist Galang was awarded the Japan Solidarity Committee for Asian Alumni (JASCAA) scholarship to Japan where he studied

at the Musashino Academia Musicae in Tokyo and obtained his Master of Music Degree in Solo Piano Performance in 1996.

Pianist Galang studied shortly at the State Music Academy in Sofia, Bulgaria and further trained at the "Hanns Eisler Hochschule fuer Musik" in

Berlin, Germany with a grant from the JASCAA Foundation becoming the first and only scholar of the said Foundation to be sent outside Japan

for extended studies. In 1999, he graduated with another Master's Degree in both Piano Performance and Chamber Music. A recipient of the Alfredo

T. Yuchengco Foundation scholarship, finishing his Doctoral Studies on The Development of Philippine Piano Literature at the Technische

Universitaet Berlin.

Among his mentors include Asuncion Laureola, Perla Z. Suaco, Tetsushige Maruyama, Janus Ceglegy, Misao Okuda, Hellmuth Nagel and

Klaus Baessler, former chairperson of the International Schumann Competition.

Performing as soloist and chamber artist, his performance of Rachmaninoff's 2nd Piano Concerto with the Manila Symphony Orchestra under

Conductor Rodel Colmenar was praised by critic Pablo Tariman as "fresh and dynamic interpretation." In 2007, he was invited to open the

International Piano Concert Series in Hannover with a solo piano recital.

Pianist Galang made his debut recording in Germany with works of Schumann and Chopin in 2005. His second recording with internationally

acclaimed Filipino Bass-Baritone, Jonathan de la Paz Zaens was released in Germany early 2008. The recording is a collection of Philippine Art

Songs "Kundiman" with most pieces arranged by multi-awarded Filipino Composer, Ryan Cayabyab.

In October this year, he came to Japan and performed the works of Chopin and Liszt in Tokyo during the Piano Concert for the Benefit of

Gawad Kalinga in Tokyo Opera City. He played the interpretations of the legends "St. Francis of Assisi Sermon to the Bird" and "St. Francis of

Paola Walking over the Waves." The charity concert was a great success and he received an overwhelming standing ovation from the audience,

majority of which are Filipinos who felt proud to be Pinoy. Pianist Galang also performed the work of Filipino-Chinese composer, Jeffrey Ching

as World Premiere at the Hyogo Arts Center in Osaka which was highly acclaimed by both audience and critics.

His performances are often praised by critics as "full of temperament, intense, poetic and innate musicianship, possessing a wide range of dynamics

and tone colour, with a highly developed technique."

He performs as soloist, recitalist and chamber artist in Asia and Europe.

Jeepney Press (JP): After almost 12 years away from Japan, how did you feel coming back to the land of the rising sun, a place where you once

considered - home.

Abel: I literally felt I was home. Being able to speak the language, having quite a number of Japanese friends, a surrogate family in Kobe, missing

the whole Japanese cuisine, and having been immersed in the culture for a period of time makes me feel I am no foreign to this land.

JP: How many years did you stay in Japan? Do you have any unforgettable experience/s in Japan?
Abel: I was in Japan from mid '92 until shortly before the winter of '96. There were a lot experiences that I treasure much. An event I consider very

special was my first sight of snow on the eve of Christmas in Kobe where I celebrated with "my Japanese Family," the family of Dr. and Mrs. Tetsuo

Tada and their three children.

JP: 4 years in Japan and now you are based in Berlin, did you find any difficulty or any adjustment as these two countries have very different culture,

and not to forget, a totally different language.
Abel: Coming from Japan where everything then was written in Japanese like the subway stations and the grocery items, it was a major relief to be in

a country where everything is written in Roman alphabet. I had no difficulty adjusting and adapting to the German way of living. At least I did not

have to worry if what I got was sugar or salt, milk or yoghurt, as what happened during my first few weeks in Tokyo. The German mentality is also

like the Japanese in many ways; punctuality, the very strict enforcement of law and order, among others. I just had to work on the language which is

far more complicated than the Japanese.

JP: You started playing the piano at age 12. What made you decide to play the piano? At first, how did you feel about playing the piano?
Abel: My mother was my first piano mentor. I learned the rudiments of piano with much enthusiasm but a few years thereafter, I began losing interest

and refused to take piano lessons. I constantly hid from her or pretended I was asleep when I was scheduled for lessons.

JP: Have you ever felt like quitting?
Abel: Yes indeed, and very often. Music is an art that requires full dedication in many aspects, a strong will to survive the rigidity of the discipline

involved, and the nerves of steel to perform. We all have our weaknesses; there is the tendency to sometimes doubt our own ability and capacity in

achieving our goals. Frustrations and incertitude get along the way but belief in one's self and true faith in Him are the armor and shield I have

equipped myself with from the very start.

JP: Besides playing the piano, what do you do during your free time? Any other hobbies?
Abel: I have a great passion for cooking. I love trying out new things and I am in my most natural element when I am with all those kitchen

wares and gadgets. Sports like jogging, swimming and fitness training make up for the many hours of being anchored to the piano seat.

Kenkou wa daiji ni shimasu.

JP: During the Gawad Kalinga Charity Concert, one of your mentor Prof. Janos Cegledy of Musashino Academia Musicae was there.

How did you feel about it?
Abel: I was most elated after upon seeing him right after the concert. It has been more than a decade since we last saw each other.

He has been a great mentor and he still really is, with all the valuable advice he shares with me from time to time. I felt much honored by his presence.

JP: Why did you choose the title" The Poetry of Chopin and List - A Passion for GK" during the charity concert for the benefit of Gawad Kalinga.
Abel: There is so much poetry in the music of Chopin and Liszt, needless to say the intense passion and the whole emotional denouement one

experiences in their music is more than gratifying. The passion I have for these two composers is tantamount to the passion I have in helping our

lesser brethrens.'

JP: They say that when you play the piano music of a great pianist, is it true that at some point you encounter the pianist's personal idiosyncrasies?
Abel: That is very true. Reading a music score is like looking through the mind of the great master. Any musical piece is a reflection of a composer's

soul, its sophistication and complexities; hence his individuality is clearly etched in his music.

JP: You must be asked about this frequently, but would like to know if you have a favorite composer? Who? Why?
Abel: With all the great composers I adore, it is impossible to single out one. I like performing the works of Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Schumann,

Chopin, Liszt, Scriabin, to name a few. It is probably because their works relate to how I feel about music, and how I am as a person.

Their music stirs undecipherable emotion which I am naturally at ease with and the intellectual aspect demands from me an analysis and a

complete understanding of the work's intricacies, to be able to deliver an undistorted and commanding performance.

JP: Who is your inspiration behind all these success?
Abel: - He -

JP: Abel, on behalf of the Jeepney Press and our kababayans in Japan, maraming, maraming salamat and it is really a great honor to meet you.

May God be with you always and continue sharing your blessings. Lastly, any message to our dear kababayans in Japan?
Abel: To the general public who watched and supported the concert last October 10, I am most grateful. Your presence was the reason for the

success of the event. Maraming maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat!

To my fellow Filipinos, we are away from our country and from our families for diverse reasons. Whatever those reasons may be, let us be reminded

that our actions and ideals speak for ourselves as Filipinos. Let each one of us be true messengers of goodwill, learning to care more and help anyone

who needs them without presupposing anything in return. Let us strive to excel in our own rights, in the fields we are involved at. Our deeds may

not change the world, but surely it will make a difference on someone. Let us all do our share not only in bringing pride and honour to our Country,

but in bringing distinction and status to being a Filipino. Mabuhay ang Pilipino!!!

September - October 2008

Fr. John Seland: Building Minds, Building Hearts

by Linda Taki and Abie Principe

Sabi nga: "Many are called, but few are chosen." Tulad sa mga maraming dayuhan na tumutulong sa mga nangangailangan sa Pilipinas, kakaunti lang talaga ang masasabing nagluluwat dahil ang pagtulong nila ay bukal sa kanilang kalooban. Hindi biro ang maging isang charity worker. Hindi rin madali ang maging isang Mother Teresa. Pero sa kabila ng lahat, paminsan-misan, meron sa atin ang nabubuksan ang mga mata at puso sa mga katotohanan sa buhay at ilan din sa kanila ang masigasig at masayang nagpapatuloy sa kanilang adhikain para makatulong lamang sa kapwa tao lalung-lalo na sa mga nangangailangan.

Isa na siguro rito si Fr. John Seland. Siya ay pari sa Nanzan University, at mula pa noong 1999 ay tumutulong nang magtayo ng mga eskuwelahan sa iba't ibang lugar sa Pilipinas. Hindi man siya Pinoy, pero sa mga biyayang ibinahagi niya sa ating mga Pilipino, masasabi nating may puso pa rin siyang Pinoy. Mas malaki siguro ang karapatan niyang maging isang Pinoy ikumpara sa mga ibang Pilipino na ikinakahiya ang kanilang pagka-Pilipino. Sana, sa pagbasa ninyo ng kwento ni Fr. John, mabigyan kayo ng inspi-rasyon para lalo tayong tumulong sa mga nanga-ngaila-ngan sa ating kapwa-tao.

Pero una sa lahat, siya mismo ang nagsasabi na wala siyang expertise sa paglunas sa mga social problems sa Pilipinas at pati na rin sa mga problema ng mga Pilipinong naninirahan dito sa Japan. His field is literature and religion. Iyon ay ang mga subjects na tinuturo niya sa Nanzan University for the past 29 years. Subalit dahil sa pagtuturo niya dito, he was able to gain a considerable experience in one particular yet important area: organizing and leading Japanese volunteer groups.

Fr. Seland has set up a volunteer group here in Japan called RASA: Rural Asia Solidarity Association. They started their activities in Thailand and then, it was moved to the Philippines. Explained Fr. Seland, "In 1985, I redirected the program from Thailand to the Philippines, due to the fact that it would be easier to communicate with the people through English. Also, the group that I belong to, the Society of the Divine Word, has no involvement in Thailand, while there are several hundred of our priests working in the Philippines. Making contacts would be easier."

RASA was organized in 1982 but it was from 1999 when the group began to build schools in various areas in the Philippines. At present they have constructed nineteen schools already. They are also giving scholarships to Filipino children, while supporting micro-financing projects.

Fr. John Seland was born in Saranton, Pennsylvania. He is a member of the Society of the Divine Word. He was ordained a Catholic priest in 1963. He received his Ph. D. degree in English Literature from the University of California (Riverside Campus), after which he came to Japan and began to teach English and religion at Nanzan University. He retired as a full-time professor in March 2007 but continues to teach there and at the Aichi Shukutoku University part-time.

Asked about his experiences with RASA, Fr. John says, "Because of this, I have learned how to organize and guide volunteer groups. At the same time, I have been able to form several beliefs which I feel are important for anyone involved or interested in this kind of activity." He explains that the benefits of activities like RASA are numerous. "The Japanese volunteers learn a great deal about the values of the people by having a home stay while they are building the schools. And of course, we are able to help the children and their families through our programs," he adds. Fr. John believes the benefits are mutual: "The good will that is created through this kind of program is inestimable, and a mutual respect for each other becomes the basis for strong and lasting friendships."

It was actually his first visit to India when Fr. John's eyes were awakened to the realities of life. He was spending a night in a hotel in Bombay when he decided to take a walk around the neighborhood. And there, just behind the hotel, was a large slum. He was shocked to see the naked truth. "People were living in tiny shacks surrounded by pools of dirty water; children were running around naked, and garbage was piled up everywhere," recalls Fr. John. Right there and then, he began to wonder if ever he could help these people.  After that journey in India, he went home for a short vacation in America. While he was home, many questions went through his mind. Can he do it? Where will he get the money? Will volunteers join him? Will he have enough time? Then he thought, "Well, if I don't do it, who will?" Just then, a passage in the Bible occurred in his mind: "Nothing is impossible with God." So he wanted to check that out. He told God, "I'm going to go ahead! But I will need Your help - lots of help!"

Indeed, God works in mysterious ways. When his father passed away, the family was left with a large amount of money which his mother divided equally among all the children. From this, for the next few years, Fr. John received a check each year for $10,000, which of course, was a great help in building schools each summer.

But now that he got funds, what about the volunteers? Who will help him? Again, they were fortunate from the start. Fr. John was in charge of a large club of volunteers at the Logos Center. It was quite easy for him to convince some of them to come with him every August. Along with the students in the club, they would put up large posters here and there on campus and also pass out leaflets advertising their tours. "At first, the numbers were small. But little by little, the numbers increased." According to Fr. John, there are usually 30 volunteers who join them every summer.

Still, it was a difficult start. Fr. John did everything by himself. He was the chef, the butler, the chauffeur, and the bookkeeper! But he is thankful that more of the volunteers began taking on some responsibilities and were able to manage things together. And because of some media exposure, they were able to manage to increase their staff of volunteers and members.

Now as Fr. John recalls the early beginnings, he can truly say that he has learned many things. "It's true: it does take some time and effort. But none of those little sacrifices could ever compare with these people whom I have met and the experiences that I have had doing this kind of work over the past twenty-six years."

"As I look back on my involvement in RASA, I see a pattern, just as if God were preparing me and helping me step by step for this kind of work by allowing me to have certain experiences and be guided by certain people. It has all been a blessing. It is difficult to describe the feeling of joy that I have when I see how the volunteers and Filipinos mingle in so well with each other. Even after a few seconds, when they meet at the Welcome Party, it is as if they are all in the same family. I also learned one more important thing. Whenever people come together in community in order to help each other, good comes from it."

"As we all know, the basic community is the family. And it takes little imagination to realize that the best family is one where each member cares for the other. The same is true, I think, with larger communities. The more we care for each other and work for a common purpose, the healthier and stronger our group becomes."

"Many years ago, St. Augustine put it very simply: 'A community is a group of people united by the common objects of their love.' I think that is very true. When we have a common goal, and when we work together in love, we have a healthy, strong community. Paradoxically, where the community is strong, so too are the individual members. Their love and dedication to the community reflects back on them, making them loving, strong, and good. I have seen this over and over with my own eyes. I know it is so."

For more info on RASA:

http://rasa-japan.com/philippine/

CENTERFOLD: July-August 2008

Fanny: First Of All!

by Irene Sun-Kaneko

Sa wakas, the long wait is over. The First Lady among the Pinoys in Japan have agreed to grace our humble publication. Kung meron mang deserving na maging royalty sa mga Pinoy dito, walang ibang magre-reyna kung hindi and kanyang Royal Kindness, Madam Fanny Minda Maranon Mirasol Kyo.

For more than four decades na nilagi niya sa Land of the Rising Sun, never siyang tumigil na itaas with utmost pride ang bandera ng Pilipinas. Kahit saang sulok man siya mapunta, kahit sino pa ang kanyang makaharap, no one can deny and help but admire, the regalness that surrounds her, and doubt her genuine concern about her kababayans.

While interviewing her as she reminisce a life in time that spans more than half a century, we just sit back and take heed of all the stories that have been buried in her memory tank and keep on surfacing out one by one screaming out for attention. Likewise, we suggest that when this First Lady speaks up, just sit up and take notice for there is so much wisdom and color from the vast range of experiences our first lady have gone through.

It took us ages to convince her to share her remarkable story to Jeepney Press' readers. Subalit ilang beses din niya kaming tinanggihan dahil sa kanyang patuloy na pagpapakumbaba at minarapat na lang manatili sa kanyang munting paraiso na kaganapan ng lahat ng tagumpay na kanyang patuloy na tinatamo.

But she has given in to our request, and now, we are priviledged to take a ride with her as our elusive "First Lady" shares her soap-opera-like journey from her early life back in the province to her many accomplishments as one of the pioneers in this foreign land.

Mahiwagang pangalan. Panahon pa ng giyera ng isilang siya. She was named Fanny after the American nurse friend of their family. Pero during her time, hindi enough na isa lang ang pangalan. It was a trend to have long dramatic names. So after Fanny, they added Minda for Mindanao. Wala pa raw masyadong tao doon and her father had a logging business in Cotobato. Sabi niya, "Ang Davao nga, nasa dagat pa noon. Hindi pa tinambakan ng lupa."

Those were very sensitive times. And romantic times as well. "Kapag may kakatok sa pintuan, labas kaagad ang rifle ni Papa habang tinatanong kung sino ang mga bisita." And one of their frequent visitors then became a suitor of Fanny and happens to be a Japanese. It was really not a good time for a Japanese to be in the Philippines. "Nanliligaw noon sa akin si Mr. Kyo, ang unang representative at kaisa-isang Hapon na marunong mag-Ingles, na business client ni Papa sa logging business," she recalls.

Sino nga naman ang makaka-resist sa charm and beauty ng ating future 'First Lady'? Not only is she a dedicated elementary school public teacher, but also a choreographer and ballet teacher all rolled into one. Ika nga, she was a good catch and only deserved nothing but the best.

With her upbringing and childhood spent like a princess, ayaw na ayaw ng kanyang papa sa Hapon. He was simply afraid na gagawin lang siyang isang muchacha sa bansa nila. Pero umiral pa rin ang sigaw ng puso at determinasyon na ipakita na she will create and write her own destiny. Little did she now how much difference she would be contributing to the betterment of the Filipino welfare in Japan.

Ikinasal si Fanny sa Pinas na hindi dumalo ang kanyang papa. After three years ay biniyayaan sila ng dalawang daughters, nagdesisyon silang mag-asawa na manirahan sa bansang Hapon.

Dumating si Fanny sa Japan noong1962. Na-shock siya sa liit ng mga bahay dito sa Japan. Ang napakabait niyang asawa ang nagturo sa kanya ng mga lutuing Hapon. Walang na-feel na discrimination si mommy Fanny noong henerasyon niya. Mababait daw ang mga Hapon sa kanya at humihingi pa ng tawad sa mga kagaslawang ginawa ng Japanese Imperial Army noong panahon ng giyera sa Pilipinas. Very friendly & they bow to her apologetically.

Sa henerasyon ngayon, malakas ang discrimination kasi nakaka-angat na sila sa atin. Langit at lupa ang agwat natin, but mommy Fanny remains to be the protector of everyone. Everytime she gives a speech in any gathering, palagi niyang tinataas at pinupuri ang mga magagandang qualities ng mga Pilipino. "Hindi ako binabastos. Nasa tao na lang yun, nasa pag-dadamit at sa kilos."

Pero bakit nga ba naging "First Lady of Pinoy" si Mommy Fanny? Let us count the many "firsts."

Tumulong siya sa pag-organize ng very first FAMILY DAY sa Philippine Embassy na nasa Nanpeidai, Shibuya pa noon. Sa katagalan ng panahon, hindi na rin sigurado ang ating first lady kung anong year pa iyon.

She also organized the very first Filipino fashion show in Tokyo kung saan bilib na bilib ang mga Hapon sa ganda ng ating terno. Even until now and several decades later, she still continues to bring
Filipino fashion designers to promote Philippine culture through our native costumes.

Siya rin daw ang first Filipina to get married to a Japanese after the war. She remembers when she went to the city hall to register their marriage, "Galit na galit sa akin yung civil registrar sa pagpapakasal ko sa isang Hapon pagkatapos ng giyera..."

Si Fanny rin po ang first Filipina president of the Association of Foreign Wives in Japan and the first Filipino member of ASIAN LADIES. Her association with these two groups gave her special access to befriend many diplomat ladies of different nations and royalties in Japan.

She was also one of those who first organized the Tokyo International Pastoral Center (TIPC) which was renamed later to Catholic Tokyo International Center (CTIC). Wika ni Fanny, "Ako lang ang makasalanang organizing member. Lahat ng mga kasama ko ay puro mga pari at madre. Ako lang ang hindi naka-belo."

Ang kauna-unahang celebration of International Day ng St. Mary's Cathedral sa Mejiro, Tokyo, mommy Fanny had a special task in organizing the program and bazaar. Siya na rin daw ang nag-choreograph ng mga sayaw ng mga Pinoys. She has also been collecting things that she could sell and donate to charities.

Si mommy Fanny rin ang first and only English teacher sa Chiba prison. "Una, ayaw ko sanang magturo sa kanila kaya lang nagpaunang bayad na sila sa akin kaya hindi na ako makatanggi. Nabigla nalang ako sa unang araw ng aking pagtururo ay hindi lamang mga gwapo ang mga prisoners kundi mga kilalang tao sa showbiz at mga high-ranking head at leaders ng mga Yakuza ang tinuturuan ko ng English. Napaka maginoo nila at palagi silang very attentive lalo na kapag ang kinukwento ko ay about international news at life outside the bars. Una, mga Hapon lang ang mga estudyante ko. Gradually, naging international na. Yung mga foreigners kahit marunong na silang English, sumasali sa class ko kasi ganyan nila kinagigiliwan ang mag-attend because I only tell them happy news. Then I became so busy with my other extra-curricular activities, I had to stop English teaching. Nag-recommend pa nga akong native English teacher para pumalit sa akin pero after 2 weeks, pina-alis din siya kasi ako raw ang gusto ng mga tao. Nagmaka-awa sila na bumalik ako at magturo sa kahit anong araw at oras na gusto ko. It has been 28 years now since I started teaching them. Meron ngang isa diyan, alam kong nakalabas na siya sa bilibid at bumalik na naman. Mas gusto daw niya ang buhay sa loob!"

And according to her school, she was the first Filipina to be a licensed Ikebana teacher.

And because of all the things she has done for her prefecture, fellow Pinoys and fellow residents in Chiba, she was the first Filipina awardee of Chiba Prefecture as civic worker. "Bigay ako ng bigay sa kawanggawa. Tapos may mga panahon na ako mismo nauubusan ng pera. Pero I am not afraid of having no money kasi matalino at marunong ang Diyos. Darating ang pera sa hindi inaasahang pagkakataon. Minsan nung ako'y pauwi sa Narita Airport, yung Amerikano sa likod ko ay nahimatay. Nakita ko nag-iisa lang siya. Pina-ospital ko at ako ang nagbayad sa ospital ng mga Y50,000. Hindi ko iniwan ang pangalan ko. Nang ipagtanong ng Amerikano kung sino ang tumulong sa kanya, "a civic worker from Goi Church" lang ang nakuha niyang impormasyon. Tapos nalaman ko nalang na nag-donate yung Amerikano, na isa palang mayaman na duktor sa Amerika, ng about Y500,000 sa Goi Church namin."

Hindi paaawat. Walang makakahadlang kahit sino kahit anong sakit sa isang taong may ginintuang puso. At 68, very active parin si mommy Fanny hanggang ngayon sa Goi Church. Lagi silang may pakain pagkatapos ng Misa from 12 PM to 1 PM. Kahit sino welcome sa Goi Church. May problema kayo na gustong ikonsulta? Punta lang kayo sa Goi Church at hanapin si mommy Fanny at hindi ka magsisising dumalo. Iyan ang formula for success ni mommy Fanny: "Dapat marunong kang makisama. Be friendly at matulungin sa kapwa."

Malakas at mahaba talaga ang staying power ng First Lady natin. Imagine kung nakailang ambassadors na rin ang dumaan while she has been there working to help uplift the lives of many Pinoys. If ever there was an event in history of Pinoys in Japan, siguradong first, Fanny was there. She gave her time, her energy and her whole self. Not only the Filipinos but even the high ranking Japanese people recognize the authority and respect she commands. Hers is a story that merits recognition, a saga of passionate hearts against all odds, a tale of triumph and celebration of the Filipino spirit. She deserves to be first. Mabuhay to our First Lady in Japan!

CENTERFOLD: May-June 2008

BRIDGING CULTURES THROUGH DANCE

Many thanks to Ms. Leith Casel-Schuetz for providing the materials for this centerfold feature.

"I am grateful that you are very active in promoting Philippine culture," said Tourism Secretary Ace Durano to the Philippine Cultural Dance Troupe
of the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies, when they visited him last March in his office in Manila. It was on the occasion of the start of their performance
tour of Dumaguete and Bacolod , which was sponsored by the Department of Tourism. Secretary Durano was so impressed by what he saw when he witnessed the group perform during the Philippine Festival in Tokyo last year, that he readily supported the group to do performances in several universities in Dumaguete and Bacolod.

"Are you sure they are Japanese? They look Filipino... How come they can dance Philippine folk dances very well?" These are common comments given to this group of dancers when they are seen performing on stage. Whether the audience is in Tokyo, Manila or New York, the audience is always baffled
and amazed. Be it Uya-uy, Singkil, Jota de Manila or Tinikling, the group performs with the precision that is required of a good dance troupe,
more so when the audience is Filipino. Because it is something Filipino that they are performing, they are aware that the audience would be more critical. What is this group? Who are its members? How did it come to be?

Jeepney Press is honored to feature this dance troupe composed of young and gifted Japanese students. We salute these students for learning our culture and promoting our dance wherever they go... all around the world. We appreciate how much time and effort they give in order to show to the Filipinos and the world that Filipino culture is beautiful. And hopefully, may they inspire all of us Filipinos to cherish and value our cultural treasure in dance and make us proud of our cultural identity as Filipinos.

History and Background of the Dance Troupe

The Tokyo University of Foreign Studies is one of two universities in Japan which offers Philippine Studies as a major in its curriculum. The Philippine Studies program was one of three newest area studies programs offered in the university in 1992. One of the unique activities of the Philippine Studies program is to adopt Philippine folk dances and songs as a medium to understand the cultural and social aspects of the country. The program tries to depart from the traditional way of learning area studies, which focuses mainly on the economic and political aspects of the country, rather than its diversified and unique culture and people.

The Philippine Cultural Dance Troupe is an offshoot of the universityÕs annual cultural event, and since its first performance in a musicale in 1994, has been a venue for extra-curricular activities of students majoring in the program. The troupe does not receive any funding from the university or any organization, but the troupe members have dedicated themselves to learning Philippine folk dances and songs enthusiastically. By doing so, the students acquire a deeper understanding of the Philippines and learn to view the country and its people with respect and appreciation. Furthermore, in order to present proper folkdances with authenticity and maintain a high performance level, the troupe regularly goes to the Philippines for training. This kind of hands-on training has taught the students to be able to mingle with people from all walks of life and made them realize the importance of humility. This characteristic is essential especially for those who are in the field of Southeast Asian Area Studies.

The Philippine Cultural Dance Troupe of the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies consists of students and graduates of the Philippine Studies Program of the university. It had its beginning in November 1994 when the Philippine Studies Program presented an original Filipino musicale at the university's annual cultural festival. The presentation included a number of folk dances and songs. However, it was the troupe's performance at the farewell party for then Philippine ambassador to Japan, Domingo Siazon. Jr. (who is again the present ambassador), as well as at a seminar sponsored by the Tokyo office of the Philippine Department of Tourism in 1995 that gave the impetus for the formal organization of the dance troupe.

The troupe has been active in Japan since then and has performed in about 150 programs organized by both foreign and Japanese organizations. Most of the troupe's performances in Japan have been mainly organized by the Philippine Embassy in Tokyo, to introduce the variety and uniqueness of Philippine culture. Local Filipino communities, Iocal governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and schools have also invited the troupe
in many of their cultural events.

Overseas Performances

In April 1997, the troupe had its first overseas performance in the Philippines during the International Dance Day Festival sponsored by the National Commission on Culture and Arts (NCCA) of the Philippines, held at San Carlos University in Cebu City. It was during this event that the troupe met National Artist Mr. Ramon Obusan of the Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group and since then, he and his dance masters have given valuable advice and assisted the troupe in technical training and repertoire.

Ever since the performance in Cebu in 1997, the troupe has been annually performing in the Philippines. The performances have been in connection with the Japan-Philippines Friendship Month sponsored by the Japanese embassy in Manila, as well as the Arts Month by the NCCA, in February and March. The troupe has performed not only in Metro Manila but also in major cities such as Davao, Iloilo, Bacolod, Tacloban and Baguio. Part of the troupe's overseas repertoire included several Japanese folk dances and songs, and a Japanese drum performance aside from the usual repertoire of Philippine folk dances.

In June 2002, the troupe was invited by then Philippine ambassador to Singapore, Jesus Yabes, to perform for the Philippine Independence Day celebration there. It was the first overseas performance of the troupe outside the Philippines and Japan.

In March 2005, the troupe was invited to perform at the Philippine Culture Night sponsored by the Filipino Cornell Association of Cornell University in Ithaca, New York. The troupe also performed in Queens, New York City upon invitation of the Foundation for Filipino Artists shortly after that. In March 2006, the troupe performed in Singapore for the second time upon the invitation of the Southeast Asian Studies Programme of the National University of Singapore. The troupe also performed at the RCBC Plaza in Makati in connection with the 50th anniversary of the friendship between the Philippines and Japan. This performance was sponsored by the Japanese embassy in Manila. In March this year, the troupe once again went to the Philippines upon invitation of the Philippine Department of Tourism for a performance tour of the Visayas, particularly in Dumaguete, Bacolod and Iloilo. In September this year, the troupe is invited to perform in several colleges in the Chicago area in the United States.

Repertoire

The general repertoire of the dance troupe consists of 4 parts, namely the Cordillera dances, dances influenced by the Spanish era, dances from Muslim Mindanao and other minorities there, and the more popular rural or barrio fiesta dances.

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CENTERFOLD: March-April 2008
MISSION POSSIBLE: TEACHING IN JAPAN

l-r: Maria P. Makabenta Ikeda, Rex Angeles, Eugenia A. Medrano
Neriza Sarmiento-Saito, Fr. Joaquin R. Ferrer, Jr., SVD, Jean Beran Tanangonan
Casilda E. Luzares, Fidel Nemenzo, Celia L. Umali

by Alma Reyes-Umemoto

"Wise education, vital breath
Inspires an enchanting virtue;
She puts the Country in the lofty seat
Of endless glory, of dazzling glow,
And just as the gentle aura's puff
Do brighten the perfumed flower's hue:
So education with a wise, guiding hand,
A benefactress, exalts the human band."
            —Jose Rizal, "Education Gives Luster to Motherland"

When Jose Rizal stepped on Japanese soil in the spring of 1888, and arrived in Kyushu, he commented on the industrious workers, "How swiftly they worked! And... as they worked, a sing-song chant with a note of melancholy in it rose and fell upon the dust-laden air." Rizal should have lived long enough to see Japan now and say the same thing about his "kababayan" who are spreading education to various schools and universities across this country, mind you, not teaching co-Filipinos, but Japanese and foreign students as well. As April marks the beginning of the schoolyear in Japan, Jeepney Press is happy to honor these admirable Filipinos and Filipinas, who in Rizal's words, "light the living flame of good." Let's get to know them and learn about their interesting teaching experiences in Japan.

(Note: JP is not able to feature all the current Filipino teachers and professors in Japan due to space limitation. Likewise, the list of teachers presented here is based on limited search and resources. I would like to thank all these wonderful teachers for their gracious time and cooperation. I also wish to thank Tony Fernandez, Nanette Fernandez, Boots Angeles, Janet Fuentes and Salvador Sabanal of STAC-J, Science and Technology Advisory Council-Japan Chapter, for their valuable help in providing information about our academicians.)

(By alphabetical order)

Rex Angeles
Ohana English Preschool, Minatomirai and Nakamachidai, Yokohama
Administrator/Director*
My main job responsibility is to run the entire school operations and facilities, including hiring and training of Japanese staff and foreign teachers. I have developed a curriculum for a program I named "LTM" (Learning Through Music), which has been a very effective way for children to speak in English without difficulty. I also teach and guide the foreign teachers on how to apply "dramatic play" activities in a class. *I work at Ohana ("ohana" means family in Hawaiian) on the side of my acting and singing career, which has helped in the speedy completion of the programs I exclusively create for the school. For our childcare section, I've introduced the inter-generational approach of having Hawaiian senior retirees come to our school every three months to volunteer as children's mentors, side by side with our regular English teachers. The program bridges the gap and develops harmony between the kids and the elderly, and is deeply appreciated by Japanese parents, since it brings their children closer to their grandparents. This job requires me to visit Hawaii to attend early childhood education seminars and meet with local preschools and prospective senior volunteers, just when my showbiz engagements are few. Many people say you can't enjoy the best of both worlds—I do.

Fr. Joaquin R. Ferrer, Jr., SVD
Nanzan University, Nagoya
Assistant Professor, International Management A and B, Business Ethics, Faculty of Business Administration; CSR and Environmental Management; Christian Studies; World Religion and Workplace
Since April 2006, I have been teaching at Nanzan University, a Catholic institution widely known as one of the top private schools in Japan. Nanzan Gakuen, which includes the University, was founded in 1932 by my religious-missionary congregation, the Society of the Divine Word (SVD). Even if I am an SVD priest, and hold PhD and MBA degrees, I still had to pass through the normal stringent process of screening for teachers. Quality teaching and research, or learning with and from my students, is a very enriching experience that requires time, long hours of preparation, ongoing reflection and research, and deep sacrifice and commitment as well. With a wide range of subjects I have to teach that require specialized knowledge and expertise—mostly taught in Japanese—plus, many other non-academic responsibilities, only faith and love for my work hold me together. Thank God, I am also blessed with inspiring students, and very dedicated and supportive colleagues, staff, and confreres.
Message to our kababayans in Japan: Be strong. Because we are all God's children, we can speak our words to anyone, and they will understand. Be missionaries of hope and love. There is so much goodness and human dignity in each person, and we need to recognize that in one another, including ourselves. May our Blessed Mother always draw us closer to the Missionary Heart of the Triune God.

(Note:  This is the correct text version of Fr. Ferrer, Jr.'s message. We deeply apologize for the mistakes made in the printed publication of Jeepney Press. - Editor)

Maria P. Makabenta Ikeda
Kyoto College of Graduate Studies for Informatics, Kyoto Computer Gakuin, Kyoto; Associate Professor, Asian Economics, Kentei Eigo
After I obtained my PhD degree from Kyoto University under the Monbusho scholarship grant, I taught Asian Economics at the Kyoto College of Graduate Studies for Informatics (KCGI) in 2004, the first IT professional school in Japan. I was also a part-time lecturer of Introduction to Economic Policies and International Economics at Ryukoku University, Kyoto in 2007. I saw growth potential in KCGI's course lineup, which consists of an interesting mix of IT core subjects and Business electives, or the so-called Management of Technology (MOT) curriculum. I found it very challenging to be the only female instructor, and be part of a faculty coming mostly from the engineering sciences and the corporate sector. There have been bumps in the beginning, but what mattered to me more was to feel good about being part of a big project, and initiating a change. Our mixed face-to-face and e-learning courses can be made possible through the use of a classroom environment equipped with cameras, projectors, audio equipment and video storage network systems. Getting up in front of a class with cameras, remote controllers, and having your lessons uploaded online is pretty daunting. Just last week, we concluded our first live video conference online with the University of Pardubice, a national university in the Czech Republic. The effort was very successful. Both our faculty and students are open about keeping up with new developments in technology—not for the sake of using its availability—but, for improving the quality of education provided to students and faculty development as well. My future goal as a teacher is to maintain a positive attitude towards change in the workplace in order to uncover the numerous opportunities, in terms of research and faculty development activities. So far, I have learned a lot and grown in experience, and I must say that I am pretty much proud to be part of our group.

Casilda E. Luzares
Doshisha University, Kyoto
Professor, Linguistics, Second Language Acquisition, ELT Methodology, Intercultural Communication, Culture and Language, English Department  
I came to Japan in September 1989, attended Japanese language school for five months, and started teaching at Doshisha University in April 1990. I was the first non-American to be appointed to this position by the United Church Board for World Ministries (UCBWM) of the United Church of Christ (UCC), U.S.A. In the English Department, for some courses, I am free to decide the content of my lessons, the teaching materials and the methodology. One course is on Women’s Issues, including Japanese military sexual slavery or comfort women issues. This schoolyear, I will teach a course on Women in the Bible, from the feminist perspective. There is a lot of ignorance about the Philippines so I make it a point to talk about the country, the culture and the people in my discussion-based classes. I live just across the university campus, so I gather students at home to discuss social issues, share Filipino food, and deepen friendships. My students are polite and cooperative, but many of them are only interested in passing the course. The teachers are very helpful but it is difficult to cultivate friendships. I taught at De La Salle University in Manila before I came to Japan. The teachers worked hard there, and also had fun together. Teaching in Japan has been a form of awareness or consciousness-raising for me, while in the Philippines, it was more geared to widen or deepen knowledge, and to build or improve skills. My husband and I host an ecumenical Bible Study/Worship/Fellowship event at home for the Kyoto Association of Pinoy Scholars (KAPS). We are also members of the Filipino Pag-asa Community in Kyoto, the Doshisha Church, and the Kamogawa Church. Before I retire in three years, I want to continue doing the best that I can to witness my role as a woman, Christian, professional, Filipino, and a citizen of the world through my teaching and my association with my students.

Eugenia A. Medrano
Temple University, Japan Campus
Director, Continuing Education
I first came to Japan in 1973, and after fifteen years of raising a family, went back to school, obtained my master's degree, and started teaching at Temple University in 1990. In 1996, I was asked to start up and direct the Continuing Education program, an adult education program focusing on professional development courses for working professionals. As an American university, Temple University has an international environment that provides an exciting mix of intellectual stimulation in an atmosphere of varied cultures. Certainly, dealing with a diverse student body can be quite challenging, but re-directing these differences to ultimately expand students' perspectives or ways of thinking is one of the most gratifying aspects for anyone in the field of education. A lot of my work has to do with interacting with people, and that is what keeps me busy and happy (most of the time). I also play tennis every week, go to concerts, plays and art museums, watch movies, read books, socialize with friends, and try to find “space” in a small “apaato” for one more item that I absolutely "can not do without!" My future goal as an educator in Japan is to impart the philosophy, that it is only through constant learning that one gains the confidence and power to make better decisions in work and in life. I love every minute of my stay here (except during the cold season), and will continue to create wonderful memories that I can look back to many years from now.

Fidel Nemenzo
Sophia University, Tokyo
Visiting Professor, Mathematics
When I was a masteral student of Mathematics at Sophia University from 1990-1992, I worked part time as a teaching assistant for computer programming courses for engineering majors in the university. After a semester, I was asked to be a teaching assistant for computer-related courses offered in English for the Ichigaya campus students. I was not very much older than some of the students then, and even got to know some of them quite well. After obtaining my MS and DSc degrees, I returned to the UP Institute of Mathematics. Seventeen years since then, I continued to stay in touch with my students in Sophia. Thanks to our almost weekly nomikai, I had the opportunity to interact with students beyond the classroom and build friendships. Two years ago, I was invited by Sophia University to teach mathematics science and engineering majors. I taught in English, which was easy for me, but agonizing for my Japanese students. Fortunately, there was another language—mathematics—that mediated between our different linguistic backgrounds. What is most frustrating about Japanese students is that they don't speak out, and almost never ask questions in class. Filipino students interact, make comments, ask questions, and sometimes, challenge my assumptions. The Japanese classroom is very dull! Students expect professors to deliver everything to them, and they are expected to receive information and absorb them. Minsan, inaantok nga ako habang nagtuturo. Not only do the students not talk, but their faces are also blank. When I am inside the classroom of Japanese students, I miss the glow, the smiles, as well as the smirks on the faces of my Pinoy students in UP. Teaching is also a learning experience for the teacher, but I admit I learn less in the Japanese classroom than I do in UP.

Neriza Sarmiento-Saito
Osaka University, Osaka
Lecturer, Creative Self-Expression in Filipino, Department of Philippine Studies, School of Foreign Studies
I arrived in Japan in 1981, and taught English in 1986 for the Osaka Prefectural Board of Education. In 1989, I was recommended by my late friend Emmie Ueno to the head professor, Prof. Mamoru Tsuda, of the Filipino Dept. of Osaka University of Foreign Studies (Osaka Gaidai) to teach there. (In October 2007, Osaka Gaidai was officially immersed with Osaka University.) Teaching at the Filipino Dept. is very challenging due to the wide cultural and behavioral gap among the students. For their final exams, my third year students presented a play in Filipino about a street child. This made them realize the dominant social problems in the Philippines and helped them change their attitude and outlook about our country. Now, they are even becoming more Pinoys than us! Some of our former graduates have landed jobs in the mass media, travel industry, hotels, banks, other private companies in the Philippines, or in the teaching profession. Some also work in the Philippine Consulate, the Trade Office, and the Dept. of Tourism in Osaka. When I taught drama at the Philippine Normal State University in Manila, my classes had more role playing, presentations and debates. Filipino students feel more at ease with oral communication, but Japanese students focus more on written tests and passing them. I also teach English and hope that we can be more competent in this teaching profession dominated by Westerners. I have taught for twenty-five years at all levels, from kindergarten, elementary, junior and senior high school, to the university level, and surprisingly, my students have been my greatest teachers in life. On certain Sundays, I record my regular portion of teaching Filipino at FM Cocolo's Tinig Pinoy. I also attend meetings of Manila's sister city, Takatsuki's International Association and the Human Rights Advisory Panel, where I am the only foreigner on the board. I also attend meetings of the Philippine Community Coordinating Council, where I served as Chairperson until 2005, and am concurrently an adviser, and assist at some of the Osaka Department of Tourism's activities, like the Midosuji Parade and the Naniwa Festival. I am also happy to have been the only Filipino judge these ten consecutive years, at the Osaka Prefectural Speech Contest for the Takamado Trophy held yearly by the Yomiuri Shimbun. I like listening to music, sitting in a park with my favorite book, chatting and relaxing with a few close friends, or appreciating nature's lush greenery.

Jean Beran Tanangonan
Kinki University, Nara
Professor/Thesis Adviser, Coastal Ecology/Coastal Conservation/Field Study and Experiment on Environmental Ecology, Undergraduate Course; Seminar on Enviromental Ecology, Graduate Course, Department of Environmental Management, Faculty of Agriculture
I arrived in Japan in April 1979, and started teaching in April 1991. Most professors at the Faculty of Agriculture in Kinki University are graduates of Kyoto University, my alma mater. I was introduced to the head professor of the concerned laboratory, and eventually got the job to teach. I enjoy the flex time in the university—no time-card—and the interaction with young people makes you feel young. I can pull a drinking buddy from the senior class, do field work in coastal areas to enjoy the sea, go diving, and do study tours and research abroad. But, I do have some stressful moments with young, beautiful students, or get hassled by unpleasant teachers or snobbish office staff—although, we have a tennis club composed mostly of teachers, and play tennis almost every Saturday afternoon. It's really disappointing, though, after putting in so many hours in a Powerpoint presentation, you find students sleeping in class. But, they are generally obedient. I reprimand them for smoking in school, and since April 2007, the whole campus has become a non-smoking facility, except for three designated areas. Teaching in Japan can be difficult, especially having to write all that Kanji on the board! Also, because of the decreasing birthrate in Japan, the number of students are also decreasing, and we have to make utmost efforts to lure students to our university to ensure our economic viability. Every year, I bring students to the Philippines around Negros, Dumaguete, to Silliman University so they can gather data on corals and mangroves to finish their graduation theses. In 2006, I was able to bring 25 students for a one-week study trip to Cebu and Negros. Last year, I brought 24 students with me. They can see that the Philippines is not just a place where Japanese outlaws escape to, but a country with beautiful corals and beaches and ordinary people with the same aspirations, dreams and morals. I have also been chaperoning students to Chiangmai University, Thailand since 1993. I hope I can save money for my retirement, and buy a small, beautiful island where I could invite all my former students—like a "Fantasy Island!"

Celia L. Umali
• Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Kyushu
Professor, International Business, Undergraduate Department; International Agribusiness, Masteral Course; Economic Development, Doctoral Course, Faculty of Economics/International Development Economics, Masteral Course, Graduate School of International Health Development
• Nagasaki University of Foreign Studies (Gaidai), Nagasaki, Kyushu
Professor, Japanese Business and Japanese Management
I came to Japan in 1984 as a Monbusho scholar at Nagoya University. After graduating from Nagoya University, I joined the United Nations Center for Regional Development, where I was offered the post to teach at Nagasaki University. I started teaching at the Faculty of Economics in 1994. Since I come from Los Baños, a small university town, I have always wanted to join the academe. I did not expect though, that I will have this opportunity and privilege to teach in a Japanese university. Japan is a very conducive place to teach and do research, which is practically a continuous learning process. In the future, I would like to return to the Philippines and teach there. The Nagasaki city center is very small with many historical and interesting places to see. During my free time, I like to walk leisurely around the town. There is a small Filipino community here in Nagasaki, and the Filipinos usually meet in church. 


Other honorable teachers/professors (by alphabetical order):
•Teresita Calantas, Lecturer, Education: English as a Second Language, Nanzan University, Nagoya
• Maria Reinaruth D. Carlos, Professor, Basic Economics, Asian Economics, International Economics, Economic Policy, Migration Studies, Ryukoku University, Kyoto
• Ely Diaz, High School and Elementary School Assistant Librarian, Seisen International School, Tokyo; English Communication Skills teacher
• Cynthia Endo, Substitute teacher, Physical Education, Seisen International School, Tokyo
• Loreto B. Feril, Jr., MD, PhD, Senior Assistant Professor, Gross Anatomy and Medical English, Undergraduate Course; Radiation Cell Biology, Graduate Course, Department of Anatomy, Fukuoka University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Kyushu
• Agnes D. Garciano, PhD, IB Mathematics & IGCSE Mathematics, Seisen International School, Tokyo
• Lessandro Estelito O. Garciano, PhD, IB Economics, St. Mary's International School, Tokyo
• Nieves F. Godinez, Lecturer, Japanese Politics, Kyoto Sangyo University, Kyoto; Lecturer, English Language in International Relations and Social Science Departments, Ritsumeikan University, Kyoto
• Dr. Ferdinand Maquito, PhD, Professor, Japan in the Global Economy, Forecast on East Asian Economic Development/Microeconomics Principles Thru Games, Temple University, Japan Campus
• Bernardita B. Barcellano-McFarland, Professor, Filipino Language Studies, Sophia University, Tokyo
• Fr. Felipe Muncada, SVD, Associate Professor, Labor Migrant Issues, Faculty of Policy Studies, Nanzan University Seto Campus, Nagoya
• Fr. Jose Rizal, SVD, Nanzan Junior College, Nagoya
• Cyril Glenn P. Satuito, Associate Professor, Fisheries Biology, Faculty of Fisheries, Nagasaki University
• Yolanda Alfaro Tsuda, Associate Professor, Comparative Globalization Theories and Border Polices of Europe, United States and Asia, Kobe Jogakuin Daigaku, Kobe
• Teresa Gan Velez, Music teacher (1989-1999), Head Teacher (present), Aoba Japan International School Meguro Campus, Tokyo

(We apologize that this list of teachers does not appear in the printed version due to space limitation. - Ed)
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CENTERFOLD January-February 2008:
CHARITO: THE ARTIST
by Christopher Santos

There is a fundamental distinction between a singer/performer and an artist. And then there are certain dues to be paid in order to be welcomed in the league of the internationally acclaimed. Seldom would one rise above the challenges to be successful in the field of music, and only those that have passion and discipline for their craft can command a well-deserved and sustained respect. A true artist is measured not by a mere celebrity status but with the quality of her work, the timeless effect of her music, the recognition of other established musicians, and the tireless support of a following. It is an observable fact that Filipinos are well known for having good vocal pipes. They come and they go. However, only a uniquely gifted few can ensure the milestones that perfect their calling.  And only one has earned that place here in Japan as she consistently brings forth achievements after accomplishments each year.

Charito is an artist. A true one.

Known as the jazz superstar in Japan, her recent works have twice in a row been awarded by the Tokyo Swing Journal. With Asian tours in one side of the globe, she receives overwhelming accolades in Europe. Recently, she landed in the highlight pages of German newspapers with an entire column dedicated to detail the astounding reviews on her live performance. Not so many months passed and her face then graces the billboards of Nice in France as she performed in Pierre Cardin’s very own Palais Bulles. Her participations are much appreciated in international jazz conventions just as her appearances are much awaited in various international jazz festivals in Asia, Europe, and Latin America. With 11 albums to her name, recorded in Tokyo, New York, Brazil, and France, she probably has set history and trends in becoming a first to collaborate with so many respected international icons in the business. For one, she is the very first vocalist in the world ever to have been accompanied by the Manhattan Jazz Orchestra as attested by her Nica’s Dream album. She has either collaborated in recording or performed with a powerhouse group of caliber musicians such as Ivan Lins, Sarah Vaughn, Herbie Hancock, and Marcus Miller. Nothing less can be expected from someone who has performed in front of a 70,000 audience in Montreal or one who actually conducts a workshop in Poland for one of the most disciplined genres of music. At home, she has been featured in ABS-CBN’s Bravura and other documentaries before being a pioneer guest of the Philippine International Jazz Festival where she will appear again in March 2008. Shortly after promoting her latest album “Now and Always”, she produced and appeared in a Christmas Concert last December as part of the annual project of her “Because We Care” foundation geared to help complete its own village for the homeless in the Philippines. This was done with her own Voice Club group that she would, by the way, be spearheading again for their next series of workshop performances. 

Charito is a world-class talent. And as such, a very busy one. Still, her schedule (mostly booked even half a year in advance) still juggles to accommodate charity works and supporting jazz awareness in the Philippines. She is every inch an international artist yet every millimeter a Filipina at heart. And we are very fortunate to have her based here closer to us!

It would take an entire biography to cover her every single triumph. We have visited her wesbite (www.charito.com) and know personally that it’s still a humble chronicle of her inspirational feats. Jeepney Press has featured her twice and reported countless updates on her but here we are again, still at awe and with so much to share with our readers as the streams of her formidable stints and charity works are as consistently forthcoming as the artist herself.

Charito’s albums are available in HMV, Amazon, and Tower records. After her big band release, her latest album, “Now and Always” is dearly personal to her as it is a special edition that embodies her best moments in her music career. The album also is a synergy with her band she fondly refers to as the Music Virus. Carrying past works with Terumasa Hino, Wallace Rooney, Toki Hidefumi, the album features some of the best interpretations of standard songs.

2008 is expected to be a grand year for Charito. Even with lined up European tours, international jazz festivals and recordings, she is already in the works with new international collaborations and other exclusive initiatives that would further solidify her position in the international jazz arena.
They say that a sure way to make your dreams come true is to wake up. With
a tower of talent like hers, Charito’s challenge is to find time to rest. But as
a steward of jazz, an international persona, and a flag bearer for us, Charito is simply doing what she enjoys best anyway.

And for this, Charito is an artist. A true one.

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CENTERFOLD: NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2007
Caesar Saloma, PhD: Conquering the World Through Science
Interview by: Tony Fernandez and Alma Reyes-Umemoto

"The whole of science is nothing more
than a refinement of everyday thinking."
                   - Albert Einstein

Have you ever met a young Filipino Einstein in person?

Last summer, I was in Manila and happened to pass by the U.P. College of Science building. I didn’t even know what building it was until I saw a huge banner with bold letters waving across the building that said, “Congratulations, Dr. Caesar Saloma!” I told my friend in the car, “I think I know that guy.” My friend said, “Yeah? Dean ng CS? Multi-awardee yan…sikat yan sa U.P.” Then, three hours later, I met some “ex-Japan” friends for coffee and dinner, and behold, walking across the room to join us was the “multi-awardee” and Mr. Sikat himself. “Caesar!” everyone cried. Then, I thought, “Ah…so it was Caesar on that banner,” the Filipino Einstein (or close).

Caesar Saloma, PhD, presently Dean of U.P. College of Science, Professor (Rank 12, highest ranking title in the entire U.P. system) at the U.P. National Institute of Physics (NIP), and Scientist III (one of only three awarded appointments) of the U.P System was only 21 years old when he earned his first teaching position at the NIP.  At 29 years old, he escalated rapidly to Assistant Professor, then Associate Professor and finally to full Professor at age 37. In 1987, he came to Osaka (where I met him) as a Monbusho scholar to fulfill his PhD research in Applied Physics at the Osaka University.  After eighteen months of extensive study in Japan, he returned to the Philippines and spearheaded his career so fast that Einstein would have laughed at himself if he saw how a Filipino scientist could be sitting right on his chair. Is that too much? Well, if you saw Caesar’s long list of 19 scholarly awards plus his five-page “condensed” curriculum vitae enumerating his what-looked-like over a hundred achievements, activities and publications, you wouldn’t think it’s an exaggeration.

As published in The Philippine Star, last September 7, "Honoring Quintessential Mentors":
"Saloma contends that the continued success of the scientific enterprise to shape human civilization depends greatly on the capacity of mentors to train the next generation of productive scientists.  As the only Filipino and ASEAN scientist to have received the prestigious Galileo Galilei Awards, his achievements should encourage the next generation of scientists in the difficult but vital task of developing a scientific tradition in the country."

Let’s find out how a young and energetic achiever like Caesar could have attained his present position after his Japan experience, and learn how our life in Japan could benefit our country the way his short stay has.

So, you lived in Osaka for one year and a half from October 1987, right? The university environment must have been different then compared to our colleges in the Philippines. Kamusta naman ang atmosphere noon, and how was it like to interact with your fellow Japanese colleagues?
The environment was not like what we had at that time in the Philippines. Ibang-iba. In the corridors, it was normal to encounter personally the authors of technical papers that I just read in the library.  At Osaka University, I experienced for the first time an environment that was conducive to productive research. The Japanese students whom I interacted with were generally helpful and kind. Mababait naman sila. However, my conversations with them were superficial or limited to general routine (e.g. how are you, how to operate the photocopying machine, etc.) because of my inability to communicate in Nihongo. 

Hindi naman siguro panay aral sa Japan. How did you spend your leisure time in Osaka?
Basically, lagi akong nag-aaral noon because I only had eighteen months to do my dissertation research and was determined to do it well. But, I enjoyed my stay and made lasting personal friendships. I joined social activities that were organized by Filipino students in the Kansai area. I went back to Japan in the 1990s and 2000s for work. Those visits were short but I gained many pleasant but dissimilar experiences in those two occasions.

I spent a considerable part of my late 20s and 30s doing research in Japan and those years were crucial in the early development of my career. Now, I am in my 40s and my duties and responsi-bilities have changed. I could no longer engage in long research stays in foreign countries. My family and I live in a faculty housing unit inside the U.P. Diliman campus, and my two, young daughters are growing up in an academic environment.

And, how do you compare that with your leisure time now in Manila? How do you spend your weekends with your family? At, ano’ng masasabi ng pamilya mo tungkol sa mga achievements mo?
I conduct research meetings in my office during Saturdays since I could no longer meet my advisers during weekdays unlike the time before I became Dean. I tend our garden at home during late Saturday afternoons, Sundays and holidays. I also walk around the academic oval (2 km circumference) of U.P. Diliman. During Sundays, if I have time, I play basketball with my two daughters (ages 2 and 6) in our garage.

I have to say that the support of my wife who also studied in Osaka University, and who is now Associate Professor at the National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, College of Science, U.P. Diliman, has been crucial in keeping me focused on my work these past fourteen years.

At that time in Osaka, were you considered young (by Japanese) for your age to engage in scientific research, considering you were already then a Physics instructor back in the Philippines? Can you describe how the Japanese and Filipinos in Japan at that time approached you in relation to this?
My purpose for coming to Japan was to carry out my PhD dissertation research for a degree that I wanted to get from U.P.  From the very start, I did not intend to become a graduate student in a Japanese university. I got my PhD degree when I was 29 years old, but a conscientious Japanese graduate student now can earn his PhD degree at around 27 or 28 years old, just like graduate students in the Philippines, earlier than during my time, because the state of scientific research at the NIP is significantly better now than it was twenty years ago.

What memories do you have about your trips within Japan and the people you met there?
Well, I am truly grateful to my professors for giving me a chance to do research in their laboratories.  Their encouragement and support helped me continue the research laboratory I started to put up at the NIP. Despite the fact that I could not understand Nihongo, my stay in Japan was generally pleasant and filled with fond memories largely to the kindness and understanding of many friends.

What did you like best about living in Japan?
I have always admired the industry, punctuality and sensitivity of the Japanese people.  Their ability to innovate and make things better seemed natural to me. Sayang lang na hindi ako masyadong nag-aral ng Nihongo.

And, how about aspects of Japanese life that did not please you or that discontented you?
Wala yata. No society is perfect. I still wish though, that the Philippine society can become more meritocratic and achieve a higher level of understanding and appreciation of the meaning of professional excellence.

Becoming a Physics instructor at age 21, then accelerating to Dean of U.P. College of Science at age 46, how do you relate your success to your youth? What do you believe motivated you to succeed so rapidly? Puede bang mangyari ito sa Japan?
Maybe I attribute my success (if you consider it as one since everything is relative) to industry, focus, self-discipline, good strategic visioning and insistent executional diligence. I was also fortunate to work with excellent scientists and students in the course of my career. Now, it is already possible in leading Japanese universities and depending on academic disciplines to become a full professor at late 30s or early 40s.

Looking at your extensive and highly impressive background, such as having been the Director of NIP, being elected to the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), which is the highest award-giving body of the Philippine government in science and technology, and being the first and only ASEAN scientist to receive the Galileo Galilei Award, International Commission for Optics, you must have a secret for reaching where you are now considering your young age. Where do you get your energy or inspiration?
I have done nothing that is really extraordinary. Hindi naman ako genius. Clint Eastwood once said that a person who is great at doing things that he loves to do is not a genius.  A genius is one who excels in doing things that he hates to do. I believe in what Eastwood said.

What do you do for relaxation or to relieve stress?
Gardening, car washing, dog bathing, just being at home or writing general interest articles.
 
Marami ka sigurong plano sa pagbalik mo sa Pilipinas galing Japan. Where did you put your energies to when you went back to the Philippines?
I spent a considerable amount of energy building a research laboratory and recruiting students to do research with me under unfavorable socio-economic conditions. I wanted to provide a better environment to young Filipinos who wanted to become scientists.

Did it help to collaborate continuously with your Japanese professors?
For many years now, Professor Kawata of Osaka University and I have been exchanging graduate students under an academic exchange agreement between the Osaka University and U.P. Diliman.  The presence of Japanese graduate students in my laboratory at NIP has led to an improvement in the level of understanding and mutual respect between young Filipino and Japanese researchers.

So, you could say that your stay in Japan influenced your career back home tremendously, right. Did it influence you to be what you are now? You recently garnered the Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Teacher award.
While I was in Japan, I trained in the methods for carrying out advanced research in photonics (study of light intensity at the retina). I was also able to observe how Japanese professors guide their graduate students and learned how to run a productive research laboratory.  I applied these lessons when I went back to the Philippines to pursue my scientific research and train graduate students at NIP.  Kulang na kulang tayo sa PhD mentors, and this is the most serious problem plaguing our higher education system in the Philippines even to the present time.  The migration of talented Filipino researchers to foreign countries happens after they obtain their BS degrees, and this is primarily due to the dearth of viable local graduate programs in the sciences and engineering, not due to the lack of patriotism.

Has the development of science and its teaching changed you since you came back to the Philippines? Ano ang mga bagay na dapat gawin para sa kinabukasan ng bansa natin?
The search for a better understanding of how nature works is never-ending. It is always fascinating to examine the physical world successfully. The generation of new scientific knowledge is also vital to the economy. It is the fuel that drives technological innovation.  The state of scientific research in the Philippines, at least in the areas of photonics and complexity science, has unmistakably improved in the last twenty years.

If you had stayed longer in Japan, or if you envision yourself still in Japan right now, how do you imagine your life there would be?
Hindi ko naiisip yon. But, I guess it will be difficult, at least professionally, because I cannot communicate in Nihongo. I would never be integrated into the Japanese way of life. There is no American dream in Japan.

Would you consider going back to Japan for work or research either on temporary/ contractual or permanent basis?
Hindi ko rin naiisip yan. I am so busy here in the Philippines. There is so much work to do.

Many Filipinos in Japan feel reluctant to return to the Philippines because they think they will no longer be able to readjust to the Filipino way of life in all aspects. Ano’ng masasabi mo sa kanila?
I understand and respect their position. Ang payo ko sa mga estudyante, kasamahan at mga kaibigan ay lumakad sila kung saan sila higit sasaya. Happiness is not about salary, material possession, or awards and professional recognition. Happiness is about being able to make choices. It means different things at different points on one’s life journey. And, Filipino scientists who are studying in Japan should improve themselves everyday and consider returning back to do science in the Philippines. I wish them luck and good fortune.

Well, good fortune to you, too, Caesar  - and, it seems you already have it.

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Caesar Saloma Trivia:
Favorite word: Boondoggle
Least favorite word: Mediocrity
Favorite expression: "No, go away." ((But, I do not verbalize it to people.)
Least favorite expression: "You are doing well." (But, I say it quite often.)
Idol: None. Growing up, I admired the songs of Jackson Browne, the novels of Gabriel Garcia Marquez and the scientific works of Albert Einstein.
Most disliked person: The incompetent reviewer who rejects my submission to a scientific journal
Person you want to be: None, because I do not have an idol. I just celebrate or learn from the singular accomplishments and failures of others with the understanding that no one is completely perfect or imperfect in this world.
Favorite place in the world: My home and my workplace
Least favorite place in the world: An international airport (and embassy) where the employees are impolite and/or condescending—worse, if they cannot speak understandable English
Best Philippine President:  I believe that all of them did their best to serve the Filipino people.
One single wish if you were granted one: Peace on earth and goodwill to all mankind.
Sexiest actress/celebrity in the world: Dorothy Michaels
Favorite Japanese food: Lahat ng klase gusto ko.
Career/profession you would choose apart from your present one: To be a coach of an NBA team that will win the championships, at least ten times. Impossible wish, diba?

AWARDS & RECOGNITION*
Most Outstanding Ph.D Graduate, College of Science, U.P. Diliman,—1989-1990
Outstanding Young Scientist  (Applied Physics) NAST—1992
Achievement Award (Physics), NRCP—994
Third World Academy of Science Prize in Physics—1997
Best Researcher (S & T) Gawad Chanselor, U.P. Diliman—1995, 1997, 1998,1999
Best Publication (S & T) Gawad Chanselor, U.P. Diliman—1996, 97, 01, 02, 03
Elected to Hall of Fame (Researcher in S&T), Gawad Chanselor, U.P. Diliman—1999
DOST Outstanding R & D Award for Basic Research (E Quisumbing Medal) —1999
Best Invention/Innovation, Gawad Chanselor, U.P. Diliman—2001, 2005
1st Concepcion Dadufalza Award for Outstanding Achievement, U.P. System—2001
Elected to Hall of Fame (Best Publication), Gawad Chanselor, U.P. Diliman—2004
National Winner, 1 CHED Republica Award—2004
Galileo Galilei Award, International Commission for Optics—2004 
Advanced Technology Award, University of the Philippines — 2005, 2006
Elected Member, National Academy of Science and Technology, Philippines—2005
Natatanging Guro, Gawad Chanselor, U.P. Diliman—2006
Scientist III, University of the Philippines—2006
US Patent No. 7,235,988  (C Saloma, VR Daria, JJ Miranda) —26 June 2007
Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Teacher Award (Higher Education) —2007

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CENTERFOLD: SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2007

Tonette Binsol: A Living Memory of Uncoditional Love and Service
by Arlene Dinglasan

July 10, 2007. The Philippine community was shaken by very shocking news. Tonette Binsol, whose name was not at all unfamiliar to anyone in Tokyo, died that morning. There was going to be a Mass intended for the repose of her soul that night, and those who, in one way or another, were touched by Tonette were invited to come.

Beginning two days before, mass emails had begun filling up inboxes asking for prayers for Tonette because she was in critical condition.  No real details were given but when one gets a prayer request for a Filipino in Japan, it’s always taken seriously. It seems to be one of the strong bonds that keep the community together – whatever the religious orientation of the various people might be.

The emails came repeatedly… forwarded from different groups in which Tonette usually had a significant role – the founder, an officer, an active member, a teacher, a friend.  Phones rang…nobody was ready for the news so they had to confirm from whomever they could reach that the emails were talking about one and the same person that they knew, saw, heard of, worked with. Tokyo air was filled with a palpable sense of loss and sadness.

In the end, after the initial stage of shock, the community started grieving the loss. Meguro Church was filled with mourning people, staring at her picture on the overhead projector with teary eyes and hearing her familiar name in utter disbelief – their organization’s founder…their officer…their active member…their teacher…their sempai…their friend had met the reality of death.

But who was…is...Tonette Binsol? Why did the news from concerned email users and phone callers spread that fast? How come such an enormous church as St. Anselm’s, more commonly known as Meguro Church, was filled with heart-broken mourners?

Surely, it could not have been merely the statistics, the facts of her passing:
Antonina A. Binsol
Time of death: 10:26 am, Tuesday, July 10, The University of Tokyo Hospital
Cause of death: multiple cerebral infarction (also known as stroke)

Since 2003, sick with anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS)
which causes clotting within arteries or veins resulting in impaired blood flow.

Perhaps the answer can be found in the words of Mark Binsol, Tonette’s brother, as he described growing up under her shadows, but how he never felt bad about it.  Tonette was his inspiration and his standard, almost like a quality control figure. She taught him how to be competitive, and feel that she wanted him to be the best that he could be. In his words, “I owed my life and everything to her.”  He said that she was, for him, living proof of honor, competence and professionalism. 
 
Or perhaps the key to the person that Tonette was lies in the description of her supplied by Philip Nemenzo of Philippines Today in his article, “The Mover Moves On: My Thoughts on Tonette Binsol”. He tells us that she was a former Japanese government scholar, and that she held a BS degree from DLSU and an MS degree from UP Diliman, both in statistics. In elementary school, she was the salutatorian, and in high school, the valedictorian. She was a tenured Assistant Manager at Mizuho Securities and a former mathematics professor in top universities in the Philippines. She was an IT expert, a web designer, a videographer, an artist and a scientist.

Not only that, he tells us that she was always at Meguro Church every Sunday, praying and attending mass, and that her messages in various mailing lists and online forums often hint at a deep religiousness without sounding fanatical or self-righteous.
Maybe we can find a hint of who she is in her own words, as she talked about the Tulong Pinoy movement in the interview with Butch N. Talorete of Philippines Today.
“My inspiration for Tulong Pinoy Movement are the deserving poor young ones who have a positive outlook in life, respect for oneself, concern for dignity and fear of God. I pity the children who were born without too many choices in life. This statement is an open challenge. I don't think that it's that easy to just close your eyes, close your mouth or not do anything especially if you believe that there is hope.
Partnership for poverty alleviation is the strategy of Tulong Pinoy.
That was 1998 when I started looking at this perspective. Those were the days when I had the time to surf the internet after my regular meeting with my sensei or after a research work at Keio University.  At that time, El Nino caused forest fires and unexpected deaths of tribal people. I saw malnourished children in Mindanao and read sad news about children who died after eating "kayos" which is a root crop with poisonous skin. For me, that kayos-craving symbolizes hopelessness and lack of care.”  (Retrieved September 2, 2007 from http://www.philippinestoday.net/
2002/October2002/interview1_1002.htm. Printed with permission.)


But perhaps all we need to do to learn more is to take a look at the words from a fraction of the people whose lives Tonette has touched…

... Why is it that the most productive among us have the shortest time on earth? Why is it that those who only wanted to live for others have their lives viciously taken away from them?
... Perhaps she didn't always do things right, and perhaps not everyone is satisfied with what she had done. But tell me, who should be the rightful judge of that? From where I stand, she did great things that only few of us could ever hope to emulate. And for that, she is damn special.
-  taken with permission from the blog entry of Katherine Develos Bagarinao
http://bmblog.bagarinao.com/index.php?/archives/183-Goodbye,-Tonette-Binsol.html

... Despite all her blessings, she was modest and self-effacing. She did not hog the limelight for limelight’s sake. She held the microphone only to rally people behind her causes and to remind them to believe in their own strength, not to trumpet her own personal achievements. She would shudder over sincere compliments, even if she deserved them.
- taken with permission from the article, The Mover Moves On: My Thoughts on Tonette Binsol by Philip Nemenzo/ Philippines Today
http://www.philippinestoday.net/index.php?module=article&view=462.

Tonetsky and I were not just schoolmates in LaSalle, we even finished the same course (although at different times, as she was a few years older than myself). Pareho kaming BS Math, and pareho rin kaming scholars. So, we really have the same background, kaya naman mega-close agad kami from the start. And "the start" was even before I came to Tokyo in 1999. After I learned that I got accepted at Waseda, I tried looking for scholars who could be friends/guides/advisors. And I'm so glad I did that, because that's when I found Tonetsky. A LaSalle professor gave me her email address. Nag-aaral na sya dito sa Japan at that time; we began exchanging emails, and she naturally became my "instant sempai", giving me tons of precious advice (without even knowing who I was or how I looked like). She answered all my questions, and even assured me that she will "take care" of me pagdating ko sa Tokyo. Because of Tonetsky, I got deeply involved in Tokyo's Filipino community. Soon as I arrived in Tokyo, pinasok nya ako agad sa Phil Embassy - my very first "arubaito"!!! :-) I was happy coz I'd be earning extra money, hehehe :-) We were teaching Basic Computer Classes to OFWs, Pinay wives, etc. That was really fun, and very fulfilling. I'm so proud to claim that most of our students back then are now able to use the internet, MS Office etc. And that also jumpstarted my life in Japan. From that point, I literally got to know the Pinoy community here, got a chance to write for Silangan newspaper and Jeepney Press, was able to meet friends who would later on help me establish a career here. _
- Bonifrank Lorenzo, long-time friend

... At 36,  you are  a good  Samaritan on life’s roadside. You have  helped many people, especially the poor and the powerless, founded “Tulong Pinoy Movement”, a cyber NGO and propelled many charitable projects and undertakings. You  brought out the idea of the “Feeding Program” of the NGO I founded called  Life Improvement Network for Grassroots Assistance and Progress (LINGAP) by requesting a charitable Filipina living in Japan to donate rice for the indigent children. You  also encouraged the idea of a scholarship for poor children and coordinated the donation of used clothes and shoes for the poor people of LINGAP. There are countless acts of charity  you  performed like sending the remains of  poor OFW back home and people who know you  well would attest to the fact  that  you donated not only your time and efforts to charity and worthy causes, you  donated your  whole life actually to them.  Self-effacing as you were,  you extended help even to strangers  and your  kindness is consistently felt everywhere. You are  God’s gift to humanity and with your  short time on earth,  made a real difference.
- Elvira P. Galang is the secretary of the Breast Cancer Society of Manila, Inc. (BCSMI) and the founding president of the Life Improvement Network for Grassroots Assistance and Progress (LINGAP). She was a research fellow of the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science when she met  and forged partnership with Tonette in Japan.

A woman of passion. If I recall, that was my first impression of Tonette -- and that stayed with me after I've gotten to know her. She was always so eager to reach out to people and to initiate something that would benefit the greater lot. Her selfless service, her undying commitment to the welfare of the Filipinos, especially the oppressed have definitely manifested in her countless involvement in charity and service-oriented projects. That is one picture of her that will forever be etched in my heart. But just the same, I will also remember Tonette also for being my good sister in SFC. She joined SFC in 2000/2001 and she had much stories and insights to share sa household meetings and gatherings. And I saw that beneath the woman of passion, the woman of energy, the superwoman Tonette was a simple, good-hearted friend who shows her friends she cares and who opens her heart to make kuwentos about lovelife, dreams, etc. She loved to chat endlessly on the phone and she never ran out of stories. It was inspiring and fun to be with her. And I know that she would have been a great wife to the man whom God has prepared for her because she was one person who not only loved but loved lavishly.
- May Masangkay of Singles for Christ

... Sometime a few weeks after her burial, she appeared in my dreams. I saw her with her visions of hope, love and perseverance. She told me to be strong and promised that she will always be with me wherever I will go. She also told me to go on with life and continue what she had started. She will give me her energies, and will guide me in every step of the way. She never really left us; her spirit and memories are with us. They are all with me for I will be her living shadow making her spirit and visions alive.
- taken with permission from MORE THAN YOU’LL EVER KNOW, A Post Mortem on the Life of Antonina A. Binsol by Mark A. Binsol

And in the words of her friend and fellow officer in Science and Technology Advisory Council (STAC-J) 1998-99, Mel Kasuya...
After having survived two bouts of cancer, (cancers of uterus and kidney in 2000 and 2007, respectively), I almost thought that death is a remote reality.  Not until the morning of July 10.  As I look at the lifeless body of Tonet in her room, reality sank in. Life is short, too short for some. We all will die - some sooner, others later. But we all have a choice as we tread our own journeys in life.  Tonet chose to live the kind of life she was born to live - faithfully, selflessly, passionately and joyfully. She was determined to take the lead, to create meaningful changes and to make things happen, even the seemingly impossible.  Death took the life of Tonet but the inspiration she left will continue to live in our hearts.  For touching our lives in a fleeting moment and in a way you only can, iroiro arigatou gozaimashita.  And for a life well lived dear Tonet, taihen ostukare sama deshita.  


-------------------------------------------
CENTERFOLD: JULY-AUGUST 2007

MARLENE: THE MUSIC and MAGIC 
by Dennis Sun

From championing the fiesta singing competitions in Manila to collecting accolades from all over the world as she performs at distinguished music festivals, Marlene has certainly been living her dream.
 
Her transition from a veteran singing siren besting nationally televised singing competitions such as the Tita Betty Show, Student Canteen, and Tawag ng Tanghalan at a tender age to a singing sensation all across the Pacific is nothing short of inspirational. In a time when the Philippines was regarded by the Japanese as a sex destination, she single-handedly showcased another facet of the Filipinos – the talent and artistry deeply embedded in our identity – by storming the Japanese music and movie industry in an unprecedented manner, and lifting up the Philippines' reputation along the way.
 
Japan, more than three decades ago, was a big void for foreign talents. Producers were on the look-out for the next big thing, painstakingly discovering the next pop idol. The Philippines needed representation. Along came Marlene dela Pena Lim.  
 
With her powerful vocals and captivating charisma spellbinding the discriminating audience, she was immediately signed under CBS/SONY producing more than a dozen albums that went to top 5 hits in the jazz charts for several weeks. She became a hot material - having her own TV and radio shows, endorsing various products for TV and print ads, guesting at different TV shows, singing at all major events all around Japan. She has established herself as a Jazz/Fusion/Pop idol. The Chinese had Teresa Teng whose enka songs were a big hit in Japan and Asia. There was Judy Ong from Taiwan and Agnes Chan from Hong Kong. Despite being foreigners, they all became big time sellout singers in Japan. But while most of them had to sing in Japanese to penetrate the mainstream market, Marlene and her managers didn’t see the need to. Her unique Filipino charm, sultry voice and beautiful English diction were more than enough to ensure a smash sensation. All these started to come at the amazingly young age of 21.
 
She transformed herself into a serious jazz performer. She has a musical style that is so diverse that after over a span of three decades, her repertoire has included pop, blues, ballads, and show tunes to standards. She is well known for her outstanding ability to sing songs with emotive vocal power seductively matched with such clear enunciation of words. Finally, from a pop princess post, she has evolved to a deserving diva disposition.
 
Being an international star who radiates a cutting edge meaning to the word versatile, Marlene has distinguished herself in music, theatre, film, and TV. She has performed around the world and given concerts at huge jazz festivals in USA, Canada, Japan and the rest of Asia. You'll see her singing at music programs on TV one night and most probably hear her singing if not endorsing products in several TV commercials. You'll laugh with her as she does a guest spot on a TV talk show. Or perhaps you will be amazed with her thespian talents in a TV drama or musical stage. She epitomizes an artist in its deepest core.
 
Marlene, who is known as Mariin in Japan, and endearingly regarded as the Filipina Superstar in Japan, Pop Idol, Japan’s First Lady of Songs, and Jazz Diva, has proven them right on target from the start. Indeed, she deserves all  these recognition and more for her career in Japan has survived three long decades of evolving music and artistry. She is still very active in the music and recording industry, making waves and headlines wherever she sings.
 
After doing concerts, recording almost 30 albums, marrying the love her life, and mothering two adopted kids, she is back in fresh form with another hot new recording album, JAZZ 'N OUT, under BMG-Japan. This album is a musical collaboration of Masato Honda & the B. B. Station showcasing Marlene's full vocal spectrum of experiences coming from a three decade career in music. Only someone like Marlene could deliver unique twists and magical excitement to fresh and familiar songs.
 
If you haven't seen Marlene perform live, don't miss the opportunity to do so. This dynamic performer has mellowed down to doing around 60 major and minor concerts a year. Only through live performances could you see the best of what this Filipino legend in Japan has to offer. Go and see for yourself. Witness her music. Wonder at her magic. Watch her and welcome her to your world. Be proud. She's Marlene and she is one of "our" kind -- a true Filipino at heart.

INTERVIEW:
How was it when you first came here to Japan?
At the beginning of my career I was marketed as an idol. There wasn’t any challenge for me personally. I just had to smile and do my thing. I wanted to sing well and most of all prove my vocal ability. That’s why I wanted to go back to the Philippines then.
 
But, of course, you didn’t.
Yes. I thought about this matter so hard whether to go back home or not. But I told myself that if ever I go back, I needed to have at least achieved something in order to show my family so that they would be proud of me. You know, I didn’t want to go home empty handed.
 
So what happened?
Something inside me was telling  me to stay for something bigger and right after that, I was offered to do a movie. And then, CBS/Sony gave me a recording contract. Offers came one after the other. It was such a blessing!
 
How did the Japanese people accept you then?
I remember my managers then told me I was the symbol of the traditional Japanese woman they call YAMATO DESHIKO. For whatever reason, they saw in me an image of a woman with high moral values. Maybe, it is the same as the traditional Filipina.
 
And what made you so popular with the Japanese?
Maybe, because I was singing in English which they thought was cool and I speak to them in my broken Japanese and they thought I’m cute. I tried so hard to learn and speak their language. I came here with zero knowledge of their language. I studied every night before I go to bed and in a few months time, I was already “pera-pera” to the point of debating on different matters.
 
What about your image as a Filipina? Did that deter you?
When I first came to Japan, the image of the Filipino women was at its worst. I remember during that time, most Japanese tourists were male. That was really a bad time. When I do interviews even back then, I never hid the fact that I am a Filipino. Everyone knew I am one. And my success was never a question of my nationality. I just did my best and whatever image they had about Filipinos did not affect me at all. Once I remember talking with some Filipino women several years ago and they told me that my success in Japan brought high hopes for them as Filipino women. That really made me feel good.
 
Let’s now talk about your marital life. You married at a late age?
Yes. It was the day I turned 40 when I got married. I was really so busy with my career. But I really didn't close my doors to love and marriage. It just came.
 
So who is this lucky guy?
His name is James and he is an American computer engineer. We met 17 years before we got married. We started out as friends and after helping him mend his broken heart, we eventually fell in love with each other. It was so funny because before he proposed to me, he proposed to my parents first who in turn gave their blessings. Very Filipino, di ba?
 
How is James as a husband?
Oh, he is so loving and sweet. His love is unconditional. He gives his all. He is very understanding and supportive of my career. He knows what I can deliver that is why he always tells me to go for it.
 
You have two adopted kids.
Yes, Marlon is now 3 years old and his blood sister Aila is 1. We weren’t blessed to have our own biological children but I feel these two wonderful kids are my very own. I used to joke that I would love to have children as long as I didn’t have to get pregnant. It seemed that my wishful thinking came true. I need to be careful of what I should wish for next time.
 
How is motherhood?
Actually, so many of my friends were so worried about me being a mother. But I really didn’t experience the difficulties they were warning me of. I would say it’s a joy and a privileged to be taking care of two beautiful children. They are such a blessing to me. I never thought I would enjoy being a mother as much as I do!
 
You won a golf tournament last year.
It was the Jojoen’s Women’s Celebrity Golf Cup. Before I had my kids, my husband and I  played a lot of golf. Golf was my passion second only to my singing. Although I wanted to play more golf, I would rather be with my children now.
 
Tell us about your new album released recently.
It’s called JAZZ 'n OUT. It’s a collaboration with Honda Masato and his big band B. B. Station. There are 10 songs where 3 are originals. Two of my best hits in the past, "It’s Magic" and "Left Alone," were included with different arrangements.

What’s in store in the future for Marlene?
Oh, I am scheduled to do my own nationwide radio show soon. Watch for it! Also, we are now planning for my next album.
 
Last question, why do you think you have lasted this long in a country that’s not even the land of your birth?
Maybe because of the discipline and hard work. Whatever blessings God has given me, I take good care of them. I always had a focus and direction in life.
 
 
 
For more information on Marlene, her recordings and her concert schedules, 
check out her website at:
www.marlenejazz.com

CENTERFOLD:   MAY-JUNE 2007

The Champions (May-June)
by Christopher Santos

As music-loving Filipinos, we all know and admit how much singing contests become a part of our culture.  But there are two sides of it.  For most, the enjoyment comes from being part of the audience.  This side is comprised of people that represent the box office; the ones who pick their favorites, cheer while they predict the best for their bets, and anticipate how the contestants will hit those high notes.

But seldom do we realize the degree of psychological and physical preparations that are undergone by those on the other side – the contestants. Dealing with overcoming stage fright or a previous defeat, testing their self-discipline for months to protect their voices, and planning their stage presence even up to the last minute, these talents are sure winners just to be on stage. They don’t simply turn out in a venue and grab a microphone as if it’s what they do for breakfast. Sharing one’s talent has a price. And the cost is paid in years of dedication highlighted in a 5-minute performance.

Winning for these people is not about the cash prizes. Mostly it’s for the title and the experience. Even sometimes to uphold a family heritage or a way of showing gratitude for the unwavering encouragements and hopes of their supportive loved ones. But, significantly and more personally, it’s to gain validation that their years of perseverance deserve a talent award.

So how do the victorious ones deal with the pressures of the challenge? What made them decide to join or what convinced them to try out again? How do they live the day before the actual contest, sleeping with a prayer and not knowing the next day they will be acclaimed as the next batch of UTAWIT winners?

In this issue, JP intends to bring you more than an interview article. Know more about your UTAWIT winners as they share their personal accounts of how it was like in a day in the life of a champion.

A Glimpse to the Future by Arnel Castillo, grand prize winner UTAWIT 2007
Just before the clock stroke for the most awaited event of all time, I really felt excited and nervous. I bid to myself, this is it…This is The Moment! My greatest MOMENT! And I’ve got to do something!!!

Not realizing, my outfit for the highlight song performance really caused me a lot of pressure because of what I would be wearing: A Barong Tagalog for an English song!

Finally around 2 am, I have decided to go for a polo, coat and Tie Americana for the Highlight song and Barong for my so-called winning piece, “Dakilang Lahi”!

Whew! At last, I made it! After being proclaimed as the Grand Prize Winner of UTAWIT 2007, I thanked the LORD for letting me won the contest, because if not, I would have to go again competing for the next year's event. Magiging suki na yata
ako ng Utawit contest. Actually, it’s not about winning the title that made me join the contest again. Yes, I didn’t make it on 2006’s but they say, it’s sweeter the 2nd time around.

Kulang lang siguro kasi sa audience Impact, kaya I didn’t make it before. I cheerfully keep telling to myself. Needless to say, it’s more of the experience and companionship I am apt to, why I joined the contest. Utawit is not only for a contest itself. I must admit that it's quite different from all the competitions I have joined before. Utawit cares not only for the success of the event but as well as on how they take care of everyone and everything behind the stage. Perhaps, others might forget that Utawit is a charity fund raising event made possible thru singing contest. So for me personally, nakapag-entertain kana, nakatulong ka pa! And that’s the bottom line!!!

During the interview, speechless na ako hearing the crowd shouting for joy. The flashing of cameras and greetings from guests made me feel so blessed.  I couldn't find exact words to express myself how I felt during that moment.

Life is, indeed, full of surprises. Last year, the “window” was closed. Yet when I made it thru the top, the “Big Door” has been opened for me. And that’s exactly the best thing that happened.

No celebration after the grand event, we went straight home with my wife, kids and friends. That sleepless night, having asked myself, what’s next in store for me? I lost "Ang Bagong Kampeon 1987" but grand prize winner naman ako sa “Utawit 2007." Hindi lang pang Pinas ako, pang International pa! STAR na ba ako? Will I be able to commit myself in singing engagements if invited? My priority is my job though I feel that I have to give time to support charity activities as well.

Just like Utawit, it gave me some thoughts and willingness to share my talent not only to entertain lots of people but to help those who are in need especially our less fortunate kababayans in the Philippines. Sana, walang magiging problema. Well, bahala na! If it’s really meant for me, then it has to be done.

I was really warmed up into singing since I was a kid. I have competed in most of the amateur singing contests. Ma pa-dagat man o lupa, I never stop singing. Even now that I’m working in a ship management company here in Tokyo as Technical Supervisor, perhaps I will let them hear my voice because this is a gift to be proud of.

Before I end this  up, I will leave you a piece for thought. Winning is an attitude.  In every challenges we take, we might win or lose. But it doesn’t matter anyway. What matters most is that you never give up and never stop believing. Be of good cheer; do not think of today’s failure but of the success that may come tomorrow.

To my kababayans here in Japan, I gladly encourage you to discover your talents and make use of it for a better cause.

---------
Two days before the Utawit competition seemed very stressful for me after coming back from an exhausting trip from the Philippines as I actually caught a cold and thought that I would not be able to compete well... what more with the knowledge that all of the other singing participants were all so equally talented. The thought alone of singing with a hoarse cough and a singing voice that wasn't in its best condition rendered me a tad bit helpless. Other than some remedies (ginger and pei pa koa) which helped do the trick, it was mostly because of my family and my friends who have been really supportive of me and encouraging which greatly helped me pull it off in the competition.

Placing second in the contest was absolutely thrilling for me. I have had many chances of joining other singing competitions before, but my Utawit experience stands out among all others because I wasn't only performing to showcase my talent in singing, but I was also joining an event for a charitable cause.

Albeit not all of my family and friends could come and watch me perform in Tokyo, I was still very pleased to see some of them who came all the way from Nagoya just so they could be there in one of the most memorable experiences of my life. The support that I got from my family and friends was indeed unparalleled.

In sum, joining the Utawit competition proved to be a fruitful experience for me because through the event, I got to meet such wonderful people, who later on became my friends. It also gave me a chance to get to know other Filipinos here in Japan who are not only brilliant in singing, but are also determined to excel in other aspects. Indeed, being a Filipino makes me proud given that Filipinos are not only oozing with great enthusiasm, pride and wit but also with so much talent. Mabuhay tayong mga Pinoy!!!

- by Ivy Celeste T. Durante
--------------------

I started joining amateur singing contests at the age of 10 and as I grew older, I tried to develop my talent and confidence by memorizing hundreds and believe it or not thousands of different kinds of songs from local to foreign, pop or ballad and hoping that one day, I will rise and be noticed. Contests always challenge me whether I win with big or small amount of money or go home without even nothing left in my pocket. But that never stopped me from dreaming that one day this talent will pave the way for my success.

At the age of 16, I started singing in different music lounge in Metro Manila, events, provincial shows even taking a break from school just for the show. My perseverance paid off when I won grand champion in the ‘911 Sing and Dance Contest of Sang Lingo Na Po Sila Last Year 2000’. That is when I got noticed by film producers and immediately casted me for the movie ‘Gimik The Reunion’ along with today’s hottest stars and then next the movie ‘Kalaro’. For a starter like me, that was quite an achievement to be given a break instantly.

The road to success is not that easy and sometimes we come to a point wherein we need to choose from popularity or a greener pasture in a foreign land. This is where I chose to leave the country and work here in the land of the rising sun to gain financial stability in order to give my family a better life. God is so good that He blessed me with many good friends and a lot of opportunities letting me build my own home and save for the rainy days. I also had a chance to work with a telecommunication company that I once thought was only for college graduates and I’m thankful for this company for letting me prove my worth.

I always believe in the saying that ‘The quitter never wins and the winner never quits’ and that’s the reason why for the second time around, I laid my cards and joined the Utawit Singing Contest. I told myself that there is nothing to lose if we try but there are many things to gain if we open our eyes and play a good sport in whatever we do.

During the finals, as I head on to the stage, I told myself confidently and with trust in Him that I have to show what I’ve got and win this battle. Thank God it was an overwhelming experience when finally my name was called and the trophy was handed down to me for the third place. I was so happy then and once again, I not only realized that I was lucky enough to be given the gift of voice to show, to give inspiration to others and make this an instrument to help those less fortunate but most of all I felt blessed because I proved one thing, that I am not alone in this foreign land because true friends are just around the corner to support you when you need them most.

I hope that my story would serve as an inspiration for all the dreamers. What I can say is that ‘We should never stop dreaming, hoping and doing our best until we finally get what we want because success is our battle against ourselves.”

Thank you very much to all the Utawit organizers and to all my friends who believed in me. More power! May God bless and guide you always.

- by Richard Martinez

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March-April 2007

Jun Hirano
Arigatou, Tomodachi!

Tinubuan na ng lumot ng panahon ang aking mga brain cells just trying to remember kung kelan nagsimula ang amazing diaspora ng mga Noypis sa Land of the Rising Sun. It's been like more than 3 decades ago when they started migrating to Japan in search of greener pastures. Salamat sa Diyos at hindi parang mga grazing cows ang napala nila dito, but the promise of good jobs and lapad among many others. At para naman maging "Maalaala Mo Kaya -worthy" and kanilang life story, many among these Filipinos have chosen to get married to the Japanese, raising a family and calling it home. 

Isa na rito si Ms. Delia Gawaran Hirano, a Filipina who had left her hometown in San Nicolas, Bacoor,  Cavite and has lived in Japan for over two decades now with her three children. Delia is a very heedful mother to her three kids and though divorced to her estranged husband, she still manage to outgrow the hardships of being the father and mother at the same time. Delia’s undauntedness as a mother is a reflection of a true Filipino character – a fighter in life in every step of the way. But Delia’s hard works did not fail her, she was able to raise her three children.

She wanted her daughter to join the Pinoy Dream Academy because she was a graduate of a voice school. Fortunately, the mother tugged along her son, Jun, to join his sister at the audition to try his luck as well. With that, you know how the story went.

Kung sumubaybay kayo sa Pinoy Dream Academy ng ABS-CBN, isang reality tv show for young aspiring artists, siguradong kilala na ninyo si Jun Hirano. Sumikat siya dahil sa kanyang pagsali at pagiging finalist sa programang ito. Subalit hindi pa natatapos ang isang buwan, nakiusap po siyang mag-exit sa mga kadahilanang di ko mawari. Actually, gusto po niyang matapos ang kanyang schooling sa Japan at mukhang na-mi-miss niya ang kanyang mga kapatid at nanay.  Amazing na teenager, he knows the value of education! Pero I'm sure and I'm pretty sure, kasama na rin dito sa kanyang mga reasons ang kanyang naiwanang girlfriend.
Believe it or not, mahiyain po ang teenager na si Jun. Hindi po karamihan ang kanyang mga mahal sa buhay kahit kagwapuhan naman siya. Ang kanyang nanay, dalawang ate at girlfriend ang closest sa kanyang wonderful heart. Hindi rin po siya dalubhasa sa pagsalita ng Tagalog at Ingles. Well kung kailangan niya ng private teachers, I'm 100% sure na marami ang mag-vo-volunteer to teach him  kahit na he finds it difficult to study other languages. But for him personally, he considers music as the language that anyone could understand. Kung sabagay, lahat ng mga emotions ay ma-fe-feel mo depende sa rendition ng singer. And it is through his music that he caught so many Filipino hearts aside from him being cute.

Jun at an early age has showed signs of becoming a star. He has been playing the guitar and drums. Marunong din siyang mag-compose ng songs. Sa kanyang ipon sa mga part-time jobs, he was able to buy his lucky guitar which he used at the Pinoy Dream Academy audition. Jun also finished a three-year landscaping course which he would love to practice along with his career in music.

Jun is back home in Japan and tries to live a normal life again. Pero dahil sa kanyang enormous talent and super charming personality, he gets invited to many Filipino activities to perform and share his music. He participated and rocked the stage at the Philippine Fiesta last November where he was welcomed and greeted with shrieks and screams of both young and old Pinoy fans. Ang kanyang original composition, ARIGATO TOMODACHI, which is both in Japanese and Tagalog, is so well-received dahil na rin sa maka-masang beat and appeal nito. He also joined his friends - the winners of the Pinoy Dream Academy, Piolo Pascual and Sam Milby - when the Kapamilya invaded Japan on the first of March. Needless to say, he captured the hearts of the Filipinos and Japanese in the audience as he performed with them onstage.

Let us now read on and find out how this reluctant star started to shine.

How much of you is Filipino and how much is Japanese?
I think I am 10% Filipino and 90% Japanese. I think more as a Japanese since I was born and raised in Japan. And when you look at me, I look more like a Japanese.
Is it hard growing up a "HALF"?
Again, since I look very much a Japanese, I didn't have a hard time.

How is it having a Filipina for a mother?
We have some moments when it was hard for me to undertand because my mother's culture and way of thinking is different. But whatever nationality my mother has, I don't feel strange having her because she is still my one and only mother.

Do you feel different from your friends in school being a half Filipino & Japanese?
Nope. I feel very much like everyone else.

You don't speak Tagalog and English. Do you think it's difficult even for a "HALF" to study their mother's language? Do you regret not learning Tagalog from your mother?
Although I couldn't speak Tagalog, I got used to hearing it since I was small so it's not a strange language to me. No regrets at all.

Do you eat Filipino food? Which food do you like?
I love Ginataan and Nilaga.

What could you say about the Philippines and the Filipinos?
I was suprised at how "HAPPY" Filipinos are!

How was it being part of the Pinoy Dream Academy? What lessons did you learn from your being there?
I feel honored to be part of it and I feel blessed to have made a new bunch of friends!

You voluntarily backed-out of the show. Why?
I was thinking about my life as a whole so at the end, I opted to go back and live the life I had.

How is it like being a famous celebrity in the Philippines?
So many fans cheered for me. I really didn't plan to be a celebrity and I don't know how to be one so it was a bit difficult.

What do you think are the similarities and differences of Filipinos and Japanese?
We are all human beings but with different food, culture, and customs.

How do you find Filipino music?
Actually, I find it different from the music I knew and grew up with.

Being a half Filipino and Japanese, what advice would you give Filipino mothers married to Japanese on how to raise their kids in here?
Wherever their mother is from, the children will always listen to their mother. I only wish that mothers would also listen to their children, as well.

January-February 2007 Issue

A FLICKER OF HOPE: GAWAD KALINGA
by Jhing Muego

As I walk in the busy, well lit streets of Tokyo, I can't help but feel overwhelmed by the fact that I live and work in a land where technology is most advanced, making almost all resources convenient for anyone to control as well as have access to. As I do my daily office work, I'm at all times impressed by the machines and tools made available for us to enhance our skills as well as improve the quality of our output. My office seat is perfectly located in front of a wide window giving me scenery that changes throughout different seasons. As I write this in my small but comfortable room, I feel grateful for all the things especially the friends I'm blessed with. I know most of us feel the same way but I'm also aware that for some, the situation is the total opposite. Many of us are not having a grand time here because of various circumstances. Yet, I'm sure we're still far more bountifully blessed than millions of our poor Filipino brothers and sisters.

Our poor countrymen constitute a big percentage of the population and I must say they need and deserve our attention. Having that in mind, I remember the day I visited the Japan Village Gawad Kalinga site in Bulacan. It was in that place, Towerville, where I first felt a flicker of hope for our needy kababayans. Through the eyes of the people, particularly the barefooted children, I was strongly moved and became more decided to do what I can to help them get alleviated from their distressful status. Being with the families there and seeing how high their hopes are for a much brighter future for them, gives so much joy in my heart. Their shanties rebuilt into brightly-painted homes, with beautiful parks and playgrounds, colorful gardens and clean surroundings make it possible for them to dream and hope like they’ve been wanting. The joy brought about by material comforts we gain while in this foreign land is nothing compared to the happiness one can feel when he's able to help our homeless fellowmen and see them become equally happy. May the flicker of hope I once felt be a bright light of hope shining upon all of us.

Gawad Kalinga indeed has a very noble mission. Less for self, more for others, enough for all. That statement is undeniably true. Gawad Kalinga started in what seemed to be an impossible vision --- the Philippines with no more slums. Yet, through the Filipinos' faith and patriotism, it is slowly becoming a reality. Now, with the initiative of Couple's for Christ ministries, different sectors and people from all walks of life are even more empowered to be instruments of transformation for the poorest of the poor Filipinos. It's such a relieving sight to see Muslims and Christians, rich and poor, do manual labor and help each other build communities together. Gawad Kalinga, as its name suggests, gives care to our less fortunate brothers and sisters who feel abandoned and desperate with the kind of lives they have to deal with. Many of us may have not realized, but, without doing anything to rebuild the dignity of the poor, we and our future children too, cannot have a harmonious society to live in. That's the main reason why many have decided to join the bandwagon and be heroes of their dear country. To date, not just the youth have poured their hearts into being one with the people in making a stand to help not just in the development of homes for beneficiary communities but also in the transformation from a caring to a sharing society, united in the vision of reducing poverty by together building a new nation. Corporate people, government officials, executives of multinational companies have also started to work hand-in-hand in this great endeavor.

While in Japan, we try to do our part in helping rebuild our motherland. Through the guidance of the CFC family, we put together a GK concert in 2005 held in Meguro church. At that time, we witnessed a number of amazing things. Those who barely stump their feet to any tune were able to dance gracefully, those really shy agreed to have lead roles in presentations, those who have stage frights were able to shine while sharing their talents on stage. All because our hearts so beat for our homeless brethren. Indeed, the poor are God's gifts to us for they allow us to show how much we love our Creator by sharing our time, treasure and talent. It was such a fun and amazing experience to be singing and dancing for the homeless while at the same time praising God. It is through efforts like this that we are able to fund our Japan Village in Towerville. There are currently 19 houses built, one multipurpose hall was constructed and 30 SIBOL (one of GK programs) preschoolers are being supported by donations coming from Japan.

Still more blessings outpour. Last May 2006, we were truly grateful to be able to launch GK here in Japan. It was held in Meguro Gajoen and was very much attended by both Filipinos and Japanese, such a beautiful sight to witness as people from different nationalities show unity, love and oneness in the belief that we can help each other build lives despite of race, culture and religion. Pronounced the same way as GK, the Japanese word “Jikei”, which connotes compassion and grace, embodies the ideal that Gawad Kalinga aspires for.

This year, preparations are underway for another GK concert on March 2 at the Funabori Hall.  Dubbed as “Miracles of Love, Hope and Heroism,” Filipino talents in Japan have joined hands to help the motherland.  In store for the audience are a concert by Charito (with guest performers), an art exhibit by Dennis Sun, and talks by Tony Meloto (GK Executive Director) and Dylan Wilk (GK International Partnership Director).  These people were driven by love to share their talents and with hope for the Philippines burning in their hearts, they have taken the path to heroism.

We hope and pray we can all be part of this endeavor and let God's love be felt also by the poorest of the poor. Through GK, we can be God's instruments in spreading His loving words and great promise of a bountiful life if we are just to follow Him. I believe it's one of the most important purposes of our lives here on earth. Let's be united and live meaningful lives. May we all open our hearts to the poor – to help restore their dignity and give them the capacity to dream for a better life they also deserve.

INTERVIEW:
JM: What is GK?
GK: Started through the initiative of Couples for Christ, it is a concrete action plan to help empower the poor by providing them with shelter, livelihood, education and other basic necessities of life. But this is not a mere charity work ''for'' the poor but rather, a work ''with'' the poor, that is work that involves the poor to uplift the dignity of the poor.
 
JM: What does ''GK'' mean?
GK: GK is an acronym for Gawad Kalinga, which translated in English means ''to give care.'' Interestingly, we found that ''GK'' can also mean the same thing in Japanese kanji characters.''
 
JM: What are the programs?
GK: Shelter, education, health, livelihood, and community building. What is important in all these programs is values formation and the spirit of communityhood. Remember, the GK message is basically ''less for self, more for others, enough for all.''
 
JM: I heard even the Muslims and the government are helping build houses.
GK: Yes, what began in 1995 as a simple and daring initiative of the Couples for Christ for social renewal has now evolved into a multi-sectoral partnership. The rich and poor, Muslims and Christians, government and private sector alike are building communities driven by a vision of a new Philippines with no more slums.
 
JM: That sounds great. I am particularly struck by the beautifully painted houses in GK communities.
GK: It is beautiful, isn't it? We want to restore the dignity of the poor and instill in them a sense of hope and dream, which is why GK builds brightly-painted homes along with parks, playgrounds, gardens and clean surroundings. Just imagine, if one GK community is 60 -100 families, multiply that to hundreds or thousands, we will have a beautiful landscape of the Philippines -- communities that are caring and sharing.
 
JM: And I understand this is not only about giving money. People who want to share things in other ways can, right?
GK: Yes. For instance, architects and engineers design houses, doctors and nurses attend to health programs, pre-school teachers can contribute their time, and business leaders can teach the knowhow in economic enterprises. You can also personally come to build the houses. There are a lot of things that can be done.
 

JM:  Tell us about Japan Village.  How many houses have been built?
GK: Groundwork has been laid for setting up the Japan Village in Towerville, San Jose del Monte, Bulacan. Currently, 19 houses had been built, one multipurpose hall was constructed and 30 SIBOL preschoolers are being supported by donations coming from Japan. In 2005, a Japanese priest and volunteers from Asakusa Parish Church organized a 5-day exposure and ''GK Build'' trip to Towerville during which they themselves helped build houses with the GK community members.
 
JM: How much is one GK house?
GK: Building a GK houses costs 150,000 yen or $1,200. You will receive personal letters from us with news and photographs showing the progress of the project. We also encourage the beneficiaries to write you directly expressing their appreciation and sharing their stories with you.
 
JM: Besides assisting in building a GK house, can we also help in other GK programs such as education and health?
GK: Yes. If you want to sponsor the education of a poor child, it is worth P15,000 or $300 per year. You may also wish to help in the medical missions. Donations are welcome for the purchase of medicines that are distributed during medical missions. Should you desire to help people with hairlip in particular, surgery and treatment costs P15,000 or $300.
 
JM: Looks like a lot of work.
GK: Indeed, but it's just amazing that there are a lot of people who are helping us spread the news about GK. The outpouring of support from Filipinos and other nationals is just overwhelming. The mass media is also helping us pursue our cause. In the Philippines, there is a movie trilogy that features stories about GK. Set to open in March, the movie tells of a story of landslide victims as well as a man who builds a GK community in remembrance of his wife in the Sept. 11 attacks. GK really has many inspiring stories to tell and we hope that this message to help empower the poorest of the poor gets across a wide audience.
 
JM: Who do we contact regarding GK?
GK: In Japan, we recommend that you contact Gawad Kalinga Japan (Mel Kasuya, Director,  Tel/ Fax: 043-206-7268, E-mail: maria_kasuya@yahoo.com) or Couples for Christ (Dennis and Elma Diaz, CFC Chapter Head, Tel/Fax:03-5701-2024
email: denniselma@m3.dion.ne.jp) for details on how to sponsor a house or a child, or make a one-off donation, or to organize an exposure and build trip. You may also send e-mail to gawadkalinga_japan@yahoo.com and visit Gawad Kalinga Website at: http:www.gawadkalinga.org

CENTERFOLD: NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2006 issue
Breaking The Barriers
by Alma Reyes-Umemoto and Dennis Sun

How could a Cinderella story be made in Japan? Winning a singing contest and finding one's way to stardom? GOW seems to have fit into the right glass slippers when she came to Japan twelve years ago. Her zest for adventure proves that she can hop from one corner of the media industry to another, being active in singing, acting, TV reporting, and composing songs.  Appearing in regular TV programs and performing in clubs and hotels around Tokyo and Yokohama, her energy, confidence, and hopeful spirit tell us how her beaming career in the entertainment industry in Japan has shaped her life, robust enough to explore anything new under the sun.

There may be a lot of Filipinos in Japan who haven’t heard about you yet. Can you give a brief background or profile about yourself and your showbiz career in Japan? I’m formally called Maria Theresa Gow, but am known simply as GOW in the entertainment industry; I am 24 years old, and a professional singer, DJ and media personality. My mother is Filipina and my Father is British. I was born in Scotland, then moved to America and the Philippines before coming to Japan twelve years ago. My father passed away when my brother and I were about five to six years old, and my mom remarried to my dad now who is Japanese - kaya kami napapunta sa Japan. I've always loved singing since I was a little girl kaya lagi akong sumasali sa mga barangay singing contests nung nakatira ako sa Pilipinas. When I came to Japan, there was a singing contest for foreigners on TV; I was just twelve years old then so hindi pa ako nakakasalita ng Japanese noon. My mom applied me for that contest, and I went for an audition. And, I got in! Nung lumabas ako sa program na 'yon I got discovered and that's how I started my way into showbiz in Japan. Pag tinitingnan ko yung videos nung panahon na yon, parang nakakahiya!

And GOW is your family name, right? But, you also use it for your professional name? It’s quite a unique name.
Yes, it’s my family name, but I have never ever run into anyone who has the same name so I thought why don't I just use it as my artist name? Everybody whom I work with calls me “GOW-chan” which is kinda cute and catchy.

So, you are mixed Filipina and British and residing in Japan – that may not be a common combination in this country. How much of a Filipino do you think is part of you? My heart is 100% Filipina. I may be half-Filipina/British and live now in Japan, but because of that, I think of myself as a citizen of the world - pero ang puso ko ay laging Filipino.

Some people in Japan with mixed nationalities lose their identity or do not know how other people see them. Do you think that being a half-Filipina is an advantage to your career? Yes it is! Hindi lang para sa career ko but para rin sa personality ko. Being “double” (I prefer to be called “double” kasi hindi naman ako kalahati lang diba? I’m two wholes in one.) means to have two different cultures and two great backgrounds. Nung maliit pa ako I wanted to be like everyone; I thought ako lang ang iba, pero now I know better - you don't have to look like everybody else - what matters ay ang puso mo.

That’s an interesting term, to use “double” for dual nationalities. How about being “double” as a hindrance to your career? Have you had problems about having two cultures? Noon, I used to get jobs as a Filipina hostess which I hated so much because of the stereotyped image foreigners have of us...but when I shot my first leading movie, "Rosario no Shizuku" as a Filipina hostess, I thought na ako ang magiiba non! So, in that movie, I acted very carefully (not to exploit too much of the hostess image). In many ways, I think that a lot of people who saw the movie may have seen a different side of Filipinos from what they had thought previously about us.

Your mother is Filipina, your birth father was British, and your new father now is Japanese. That’s actually a triple culture! Looking at your family life and how your parents approach your mixed nationality, what advise can you give to other families with mixed-cultured children about self-identity and social adjustments? My family always taught me that I am special in every single way, and that I should be proud of having two cultures. Kaya ang masasabi ko ay kahit “double” ka man o hindi, you too, are special in your own way. So, kahit ano man ang sabihin ng ibang tao, always hold your head up high and have pride in being YOU!

Let’s talk about your singing career. What led you to this mode of life? Ever since I was a child I've always wanted to be a singer. My mom also loves music and would listen to it all day long. Kaya nung maliit ako I always sang and dance along with Madonna and Rick Ashley!!

Can you describe your songs line-up and the type of your music genre? It's difficult to categorize my music, because my songs don't have any genre really. I sing rock, hiphop, R&B, oriental – anything, you name it!! Kasi, sa tingin ko music has no barriers and I love challenging myself with new things. I don't believe we should limit our capabilities.

You probably listen to music all the time. What kind of music would that be?
Any kind! Basta nagustuhan ko 'yun, it’s fine with me. I even listen to Taiwanese and Korean songs, and African songs as well.

How about our Filipino singers? Do you have any particular favorites? Lea Salonga, she's my idol! But, I also love Sharon Cuneta, Regine Velasquez, ZsaZsa Padilla and Gary Valenciano. I also highly respect Apl from the Blackeyed Peas who is one of the most famous Filipinos throughout the world! I would like to be like him in the future.

At your young age, it must be challenging to be able to reach out to a large audience from a different country. How is your experience of relating and expressing to the Japanese pop music crowd? I think it's doing well. A lot of people like my album, "Break the Barrier" - this album is my first, and I wrote all the lyrics myself. There are nine different types of songs in it. Sabi ng mga nakarinig non ay hinding-hindi ka magsasawa! Please check it out!

The theme, “break the barrier” sounds perfect to describe your cultural roots. Is this a newly released album?  Yes, I just released it last March and this is my first ever! Ito ang debut CD ko. But the first song I have ever released besides the ones in the album, "Break the Barrier" is called "Looking 4 My Place," and was released in a compilation album with a lot of other artists.

Do you write all the songs in all your CD albums? I write all the lyrics but not the songs yet…but I'm on to recording my second album where I plan to write my own songs.

How about your back-up musicians? Do you have your own band? Well, wala na akong band. My record company is planning to team me up with a lot of other artists para it’s a new concept every time. For the next album we are still talking about what to do, so please look forward to it!

It must be difficult to book engagements around Tokyo. Where do you usually perform in Japan? Do you go on song tours? How about performing in the Philippines? Other countries?
I usually perform in clubs, sometimes in hotels mostly around Tokyo and Yokohama. Song tours – I hope I can do soon, but before that gusto kong mag perform sa Pilipinas! I intend to! And soon! Home sweet home…

Apart from singing, I believe you also appear in several TV programs in Japan. Can you tell us more about that? I have two regular programs on Chiba TV where I act as an emcee in "The Za". This is the link: http://www.chiba-tv.com/theza/index. html, which is shown every Thursday 11:00 pm on Chiba TV. “The Za” is a music program that introduces new artists all over Japan. There are some professional and amateur artists who come to the show as guests to promote their new singles or their concert events, and I interview them. "Kinyou Taburotto" is a new program that we haven't started shooting yet but it's an entertainment variety show and I'll be a reporter who goes to check out the hot spots throughout Japan. This is my own HP link: http://gowish.net/

How about your work in radio or movies? I'm also a radio DJ, TV reporter and an actress. People might know me from "Ultra-man Gaia," J-wave Good Morning Tokyo, Sma-Station and "Ace wo Nerae."

Since you are quite a versatile talent being a singer, radio DJ, TV reporter, actress…and what else? How is it like to work with the people from all these kinds of departments in the showbiz industry here in Japan? Don’t you get confused? No, it's great! Japanese people are so hardworking and committed to their work that they really put effort into it. And everybody's so polite and nice, hindi ba?

There are some other popular entertainers in Japan who have started their careers here much ahead of you, like your “sempais.” How do you think about their careers in relation to yours? Did they have any influence in your life? Or did you want to do something different from them? I have always wanted to get information about my sempais because I believe they must have been through everything that I'm going through as well. I would like to learn from them and to that, add some of my own “spice.”

You must have a very exhausting lifestyle! Can you describe your daily routine as a performer?
Well, I wake up in the morning, play my guitar a little, then go to the gym. I go to dance classes and to my vocal lessons which I do every week, then come home and write my lyrics in the middle of the night.

And, how do you balance all of these with your life in the entertainment industry? It could be hectic doing everything all at the same time. There is nothing to balance because my life in showbiz is equal to my personal and home life. Pag masaya ako with my personal life, it influences me to write happy songs and when I'm sad, it helps me to overcome it by singing or writing sad songs. No music, no life!

Let’s try to reflect backwards. Having spent twelve years in Japan, what changes in your professional life did you have to go through, and how did these change your personal life?
Nothing has changed really, kasi I’ve lived in a lot of places and many different cultures exist within me. All the places I have lived in give me good influences in my career. Some people say my work comes from a Japanese heart, but I just do what I really feel from deep down inside me.

Scotland, U.S., Philippines and Japan are all different countries with varying cultures. What adjustments did you have to make when you started your life in this country?
Nothing much, because kahit nasaan man ako, ako ay ako, at wala akong gustong ibahin sa sarili ko. I'm proud of being myself!

As you know, many foreigners in Japan see a lot of good and not-so-good things about the life here. How about you? Are there things that you particularly like and dislike about living and working in Japan, especially comparing to your lifestyles abroad before? It's great in Japan! Pero, once in a while, namimiss ko ang mga pamilya ko sa Pilipinas na hindi ko masyadong nakikita. Over there, I also miss the palengke, the barangay contests, the basketball court near my house, hilaw na manga, crispy pata, dinuguan, banana-cue, sago, taho,etc.! I miss the Philippines.

What about the difficulties of being a Filipino in Japan, especially in your work? How do you cope with them? I love being a Filipino. If I had any difficulties about being such, I don't think it's because of my nationality.

This may not be appropriate to ask, but it could help many foreigners, especially Filipinos in Japan. Have you ever experienced any discrimination in your work because of being a gaijin or having a Filipino nationality? I used to hate being called a “gaijin” - that word itself is a form of discrimination, especially when people think you can’t understand Japanese, then they say something rude to you; or when they say every Filipino or gaijin looks the same, that's sad. Pero, bad experience teaches you to have more confidence in being a gaijin. Now, kahit na anong sabihin nila, okay lang ako. I know who I am and I'm proud of it.

That’s great. You probably are in the right career after all! If you did not get into showbiz, what profession would you imagine yourself to be in today? I have never thought of that before…pero, I suppose a professional dancer. Pero, all my family members are nurses, so maybe I would have studied nursing, too.

How about looking ahead and telling us what you see for yourself. What is your future goal? And, your future projects? Music has no barriers ang motto ko. I believe na everybody around the world loves music kahit saang country ka galing, kahit hindi mo alam kung ano ang sinasabi ng lyrics, ang mga tao ay sa music nagkakaisa. Kaya yung title ng first CD ko ay "Break the Barrier." My future goal is to spread my music all around the world. In the future I would like to write more unique songs in interesting languages from different countries.

Lastly, to address all those who are reading this interview, do you have any thoughts or words of inspiration for aspiring singers, actors/actresses, media personalities who want to make it in Japan? Ang masasabi ko ay we always have to be ourselves, and always remember where we came from - our roots! Because we are all special in our way, just the way we are!

CENTERFOLD: SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2006

RAMONA REIGNS SUPREME!
by Dennis Sun

Sa huling pasada ko sa centerfold a few months ago, humarurot ang Jeepney Press sakay ang classy at eleganteng jazz diva... none other than Ms. Maria Eva.

Now naman sa pagbiyahe ko sa mga music lounges, na-radar ko ang overspeeding talent na isang Filipina chanteuse who has made her musical mark in the mainstream hotel lounge and live house singing industry in Japan. But she is definitely not another Maria Eva.  And although the two are good friends, kakaiba ang approach nila sa kanilang singing careers and styles.

Presenting the reluctant songbird, exuding with incredible talent, Ramona! Believe it or not, ang ating amazing diva ay hindi makapaniwala how she ended up singing professionally since even if she loves music, she would rather watch other singers perform -- like her good friend Maria Eva. Pero, subalit, datapwat, at bakit! Dahil sa kanyang umaarangkadang kinang sa Japanese Music scene, ang kanyang penalty: occupying the hot seat for our centerfold as she bares it all.

Ramona is such a character both on stage and in real life. She is funny, comical, childlike and very entertaining. In between her sets, she would sit down beside me and continue our never-ending tete-a-tete. Walang kamatayang kuwentuhan to the max! I would ask her questions in some far off event in the history of her life that she thought had been buried and forgotten never to be remembered again. She would think hard. Pause.  Answer a question. Pause again.  And then contradict herself saying apologetically it's something actually different. Nakakaloka, di va?! And she would strike a cross-eyed gesture. Kakaiba talaga siya, not very typical in the world of divas. Even onstage, she is so much like a child (okay, but in a good way). Unlike other singers who would hide their mistakes to show their near-perfect diva-ness, she would even glorify her mistakes to tell the audience she is as human as any of them. Ito marahil ang kanyang charm, and it draws people to gravitate towards her.  This singer even at this stage of her career shows a lot of humility which is why so many of her fans adore her and keep on tracking her wherever she goes.  It's a feat not many of her contemporaries can claim.

Once upon a time, Ramona did not realize she had this unique gift of song. Maybe she thought everybody can sing... sa Pinas ba naman na talagang inaabuso ang karaoke at mikropono!  Only friends could convince her that she has what it takes to be a singer. Moreover,  she has the voice that could sing almost any kind of song. Super versatile and ating lolah! Napaka-natural ng kanyang interpretation and delivery of any song material. She didn't know she had it then but fate was kind enough to bring her to what and where she is right now.  At doon sa magical moment na yon, nakilala niya ang kanyang fairy godmother (kung sino at ano man siya!) and her career took off up, up, and away as it was meant to be.

Watching her perform at one of her weekly music lounge stints at the 25th floor sky lounge of the Metropolitan Hotel in Ikebukuro, her voice reminded me of Filipino musical greats like jazz songbird Jacqui Magno and soul siren Louie Reyes. She has a wide variety of musical repertoire from jazz, r&b, soul, pops to even Japanese enca. Mataray talaga ang talent ng ating Ramona! Her friends in the music industry advised her that to be able to make your mark in this field, one has to slim down and categorize oneself as to the kind of singer you are. But she is and has always been a rebel in life. Pati sa kanyang musika, dala pa rin niya ang kanyang pagiging carefree spirit. Thus, she sings all kinds of songs. The more the merrier sabi nga nila...  And why not? Dahil sa pagkanta niya ng lahat ng musical genres, napapaligaya niya ang audience who spent money, time and energy just to watch her perform. She wants to give it back to people whom she owes the most, her fans.

Sa dami ng mga nag-diva-divahan ngayon na parang nakalunok ng megaphone at talaga namang umaabot sa outerspace at binubulabog ang mga aliens sa taas ng boses, Ramona would rather attack a song with all simplicity. She is not your typical birit-queen even though she can belt and growl if she wanted to.  Think of Roberta Flack, the Queen of Cool.  And I think it is because of this that she gets her indelible mark and makes her different from the rest. Besides, she has nothing to prove... she just remains sincere to her craft. Hayan ang true artist!

Bago matapos ang kanyang set, she usually gets a lot of requests from the audience. Kung puwede nga lang siguro, i-uuwi siya para gawing personal radio! Di ka talaga magsasawa sa boses niya. Kulang na lang ay malunod siya sa dami ng song titles na people write in pieces of paper. Gawin ba namang human jukebox!

But before she reads all the song requests and make her fans happy, narito muna ang ilang mga katanungang we have prepared for our Pinay Idol in Japan.

Where are you from the Philippines?
Actually, I was born in Hawaii. Then when I was 3 years young, our family moved to San Francisco until I was 14. Afterwards, we moved to Manila and Las Pinas. Napaka-international di ba?

Oo nga. How was it growing up in Manila?
Growing up? I was already working at a young age that I forgot about what growing up is all about. Maybe it was because I looked more mature for my age (or maybe because of my natural good looks), I was able to land a job as a model. It was also the time when I started studying the guitar. Oh, and because I was fluent in English, I was able to land a flight attendant job at PAL for sometime.

Interesting. Paano ka naman nag-start as a singer then?
You know, I love parties and back then, hindi pa uso ang karaoke. Meron laging mga live band. I also love singing so I would just grab the microphone and do my stuff. Sariling concert on the spot. Hayun, from a party singer, I became an amateur guitar playing folk songs. I was singing at one live house in Makati when producers from Japan were scouting for talents. I didn't realize then that the performance that night already served as my audition. And I got signed right there and then! Kaya it's good to give your best shot always. Who knows there is always this producer watching you and this lucky break waiting.

So ilang taon ka when you became a professional singer?
I was only 16 years old when I passed an audition for the new faces that Toshiba EMI was conducting. I was considered an AIDORU (pop idol). I recorded some demo tapes but returned to Manila after a couple of months because my mother didn't like me working here then. Strict ang parents ko eh... She said I was too young.

But now, you have 3 CD recording albums. Chika ka naman about them...
My debut CD is entitled "Midnight Sun, Only For You" which was recorded in 1997.  All are standard songs and some of those songs are very difficult to sing like Midnight Sun and Ruby My Dear. Ruby My Dear was composed by one of my favorite composers Monk Thelonious and arranged by my favorite Bass Player Ushio Ito. It was produced by Tokyo Sound City Planning Co., Ltd.

Of all my CDs, I think my 2nd CD entitled "My Dream" has the most impact and meaning to me because I composed and did the lyrics of all the songs. It is actually an inspiration from my friends, from the good and bad experiences in life and my dream.  I was able to come up with the lyrics through the motivation and influence people gave me.  They have touched my life and these experiences made me a stronger person. This CD was produced by my company Office Ramona and recorded in Los Angeles with famous musicians.
 
My 3rd CD is entitled "Stay With Me". It is a combination of standard songs, personal compositions, popular songs and Japanese songs in English which I have translated. It was produced again by my company Office Ramona with my favorite musicians. My friend Maria Eva joined me as backup vocals. It was recorded by Toshiba EMI.
 
If people want to catch your live performance, where can they go to?
I do stints at top hotels in Tokyo like Century Hyatt, Okura, Metropolitan, ANA, Ark Hills, etc. Sa mga live house naman, I do shows at Satin Doll. At Birdland, I not only sing but play the piano as well. It's better to check my website or send me an e-mail.

Wow! You also play the piano?
Actually, I was spotted one time during one of my performances by famous jazz pianist Sera Yuzuru and was encouraged to concentrate on my singing. It was because of Sera that I was able to sing a famous jazz clubs in Ginza and started to sing exclusively.

How was it singing at the jazz clubs?
Oh, it actually gave me the chance to meet other top jazz musicians. And because of my experiences with these great artists, I was able to learn a lot and polish my singing skills.

What do you think is the secret of your success in singing here?
I never contradict the seniors in the business. When you are starting, you cannot just do what you want to. You need to please your boss, managers, and the audience. When they ask me to sing a song, I study the song even if it is not my style. Kung baguhan ka, dapat malaman mo ang lahat ng style. Parang soul-searching pa. But once you are up there, you can do whatever you want.

Do you do other things besides singing?
I also teach private singing lessons, but only to those who are seriously considering becoming professional singers. Kung di ka seryoso, I won't accept you.

And you also own a shop in Hakusan, Tokyo?
Yes, I sell different items ranging from clothes to jewelry. I also help other people start their own home- based business even without capital. I also have an online store in Yahoo and regularly deal with EBay.

What advice can you give our aspiring Filipino singers in Japan?
Just be serious in what you want in life. Iba na rin kung masipag ka. At the end, you will definitely harvest!

Pwede ka bang ma-invite sa mga Filipino events here?
Siempre naman! I'm all out to helping our kababayan sa Japan. Kung meron ba akong ma-contribute sa kahit anong okasyon, why not?

Kung merong star for all seasons,
si Ramona ang ating diva for all occasions! Ngayon na nasagot na niya lahat ang aking mga inihandang tanong, she can continue her ride as she overspeeds with her talent and charm in giving back to her fans what she does best: sing her gift of music. She is simply Ramona, reigning supreme in any song!
 


 

CENTERFOLD: July-August 2006
GIL PASCUA: An Icon And An Idol
BY CHRISTOPHER SANTOS

Many of us living in Tokyo are so used to hearing Filipinos excel in
the entertainment field in this country. Seldom do we realize that few
Filipinos have equally been significant frontlines in the corporate world,
specifically in the competitive and fast-paced field of Information
Technology in Japan. In this summer issue of Jeepney Press, we have
the privilege to feature one Filipino who has risen above years of challenges
to finally become a top executive in a number of security investment firms
in the world’s second biggest market and one who has remained true to
his roots, declining other wonderful options, to prove in his own way that
one can succeed not necessarily inspite of, but because of, being a
Filipino.

An icon is an enduring symbol.
An idol is a representation of substance. To our readers, we present to you,
a fellow Filipino who has earned the right, both in his corporate career and
sports interest, to embody both ideals, Mr.  Virgilio “Gil” Pascua.

Being an ICON - “I’m a Filipino. I’m not stupid.”
He was here only for a sojourn trip at the time when he was still based in
Saudi Arabia building a career as a programmer. He was visiting his brood –
a sister who was posted at the US Embassy,  another one teaching at
an International School, and a brother working for an Accounting Firm.
Several days passed and naturally, street smart Gil was invited to one
of those regular Roppongi parties frequented by foreign IT expatriates
where he met one guy who casually raised in a conversation a major
system concern for a European investment powerhouse. He was candidly
voicing out alternative solutions simply to make an impression, not knowing
that seated behind him and listening intently was the IT manager of the
firm in search of a new systems analyst. His approach and
recommendations silently triggered a deep interest for the manager
who, after learning that he’s a Filipino, challenged him with the question
“…And you think you can do it?” To which, without an eye blink, he replied,
“Why not? I said I am a Filipino. I did NOT say I’m stupid.” And that was the
start. Maybe an awkward one that was shrugged off as a half joke. But it
resulted to a follow-up invitation call for a get-together. Or so he thought.
He met up again with the manager who was accompanied by a few
other colleagues. Although he thought it was “just lunch,” Gil was always
smart and sharp. But young and naïve because it never occurred to him
that the meeting was already an actual interview and he only realized it
upon receiving a surprise call three days later with an affirmative job
offer.

Gil is not the type who worries about the future. He plans for it, yes.
But faith has always guided Gil to being what he is now in the most
unexpected ways.  At one point, while on his holiday break, he left
his notes on his desk during a seating relocation of the firm. His manager,
who was getting desperate in getting technical solutions from highly
paid consultants, got hold of it and saw his notes. And scribbled in those
few pages are the ideas and pointers of a young Filipino professional
that overruled the case study and proposition of a top consulting
firm.

What struck Gil the most was the equal opportunity evident to anyone
with a flair for deep observation and assertiveness. He knew that talent
and efficiency are of more value than the color of the skin. He was the
only Filipino in that firm at the time and it was a challenge. “Every task
was a gauge, not only of me, but of being a Filipino. Not only of my skill
but how we faired with the rest of them. I had to do good because I
know deep inside that I represent not only my people but, more so,
a future opportunity for those who would follow,” he shared.

A true patriot, Gil, whose immediate family members are all based
in the US, never entertained the idea of changing his citizenship
despite encouragements and open invitations to do so. With a longing
to see his homeland again after a long absence since the EDSA revolution
days, he never questioned himself why he could not bear giving up his
natural citizenship. “My passport is not my blood. I am a Filipino and I
can succeed in any way I desire. I can live anywhere and do anything
by simply being me. There are various rules to deal with but it doesn’t
dictate that I need to be something else. I just need to be somebody. 
And being a Filipino, all being equal, is being somebody. So why does it
have to affect my goals or my rights?”

With Gil’s years of fortitude and dedicated work, the Filipino community
in Tokyo can proudly acknowledge having a kababayan who has been
an IT manager and Director in several top investment firms at a
relatively young age, a valued Deputy Head for a top Japanese bank
(that would not even allow Gil to travel without a staff on account of
the importance of his role), and currently a Senior Vice-President &
Chief-of-Staff for the regional branch of one of the biggest US corporations
listed in the Forbes 500.

Gil admits that he had more challenges than luck. There are times
that when attacked, he simply kept his stance believing that there will
eventually come a time when his attacker would lose his own balance.
Taking all of these into account, what he accomplished was not a
mere achievement. He conquered a feat.

Being an IDOL – 56/56
With his success, Gil, after nearing 20 years of permanent residence
in Tokyo, balances his life with something that is actually riskier than
any corporate politics and stress - car racing! Always an avid car enthusiast
from when he was 5 years old, Gil is a Class “A“ Professional
Competition level-licensed driver who has in his collection several exotic
cars parked in his residence, and race cars (one of which is a GT300
Porsche) maintained in his affiliated racing company.

How did he become a Race car driver ?
“I was only 5 years old then pero gusto ko nang magmaneho kasi
nakikita ko ang father ko how he enjoyed it.  At the age of 6 or 7,
ako na ang nag-ka-kambiyo sa kotse para sa father ko. At the age of 14,
hindi na ako mapigilan ng father ko sa pagmamaneho so ginawan ako ng
lisensiya. Eh underage pa ako so my father found ways around it.
Everytime I drove I had to sport a sunglass as a camouflage. Kapag
nakakita ako ng pulis, I had to look the other way. Mahilig talaga ako
sa kotse. Gusto ko talagang maging mechanic. Ironically,  more than
an academic, I consider myself instinctive. I don’t depend on manuals
even when I was a programmer.”

Good management always demands a caliber reflex action, decisive timing,
and quick thinking. Maybe his other identity as a professional racer is the
reason why Gil became a well-respected and admired executive. But in the
world of racing, nothing could guarantee the turns of the wheels. In this
respect, Gil is really blessed with a healthy life considering the reason why
he has a personal conviction in keeping a customized car plate number of
“56-56.”  The code represents the number of letters of ‘Jesus Christ’ name
repeated twice, signifying the number of times Gil has survived a serious
crash on the race tracks.

“I feel like I’m always racing. Inside the car, all I see is a tunnel-sort of
vision and maybe that’s why I’ve always kept my focus. I simply want to
reach a finish line. No unnecessary fuss. In a way, that’s what real
management and leadership is. Regardless of the fast track, one must
keep his focus to reach a goal,” he shares with such cool.  “So in a lot of
ways, my career and my passion have always been consistent with one
another.  I’m not a conformist. I believe in balance but in crucial moments,
one does not have the luxury of compromise. With the dangers of car
racing and the challenges in management, my attitude adheres to risk-
calculated consistency.”

An Idol’s Idol?
His dad passed away when Gil was 20 years old. But the legacy of a man
who understands the value and plight of a people regardless of their social
standing lives on in Gil’s grounded outlook in life.  A papa’s boy, Gil was
devastated when his father died but felt both humbled and proud when
he witnessed the amount of people who paid their respects during his
father’s wake. “I may be the more successful one, but my father was
a better man,” Gil concedes.

Views about Filipinos in Japan
With other people trying to sound western, Gil never fakes to speak in
slang. Instead what he strives for to instill in all Pinoy professionals he works
with is the required ethics and decency at a workplace, inside and out.
“Philippines is one of the most literate nations. I really believe na magaling
at matalino ang mga Pilipino. Huwag nating sayangin ang ating kakayahan
by doing our dirty laundry in front of other nationalities. First and foremost,
always be a steward of our flag. If you cannot promote the image of your
country, don’t demote it.” Gil relates,“When I left the Philippines, it was
then I realized my sense of patriotism because the treatment and
misconceptions of the people I worked with before forced me to defend
my roots in the corporate arena. And I have no regrets. I am always
proud to be a Filipino and I will always love the Philippines. Even now,
if you ask me to close my eyes and think of a happy memory, it’s always
going to be one when I was back home.”

So, to our kababayans, with our continuous efforts to help give inspiration
to any and all of us here in Tokyo, Jeepney Press is more than proud to
showcase a Filipino who has dared to trudge a path which others believe
is reserved for the special few and who is equipped only with simple
values and the strong belief of what we inherently are – a Filipino.
With the case of Gil Pascua, what alibis could we excuse ourselves not
to succeed? Again, is it not in spite of being but because of the fact that
we are Filipinos? The only thing that limits us is what we believe.  And that,
in the words of Mr. Pascua, is “no fuss.”

For questions or inquiries regarding management, lifestyle, success or just about anything relating to Filipinos here in Japan, Mr. Pascua is more than happy to hear from you. Please access:

http://gil-icon-idol.blogspot.com/

Centerfold May-June
UTAWIT 2006 WINNERS
BY CHRISTOPHER SANTOS

MARICAR RIESGO
2006 UTAWIT Grand Champion
Contest Piece: “Story”

“I did it.” She could not help but silently think so after her name was announced
as the winner. Even before she could realize what just happened, and before
she could feel the joy of triumphing in currently the most prestigious
competition ever held for Filipinos in Japan, her thoughts were more out
of awe for the turn of events that night. It would be a bit of surprise to
discover that she is only an "amateurista" (like many of us) suffering from
lack of self-confidence more than half her life. But passion for music forged
her since her teenage years to join various "sing-alike" contests in Manila.
Be it a Sharon Cuneta or a Geneve Cruz sing-alike contest, she was
there. Competing in Star Quest and other televised contests, she has been
trying out her luck but never got to the top. With an exceptional and special
gift for singing voice imitation, she came to Japan with lesser expectations
until UTAWIT came. Ironically, now even with a tougher batch of
contestants, competing outside of her home country, and singing a
foreign song as a contest piece, Maricar Riesgo finally defeated her
stage fright and turned her luck around when she emerged as the
recipient of the much coveted grand prize award in this year’s UTAWIT.

Maricar’s blessings came at a point when her intentions for striving are
not meant for attaining her personal dreams anymore. Few the reasons
she joined the contest include the usual hope to have a memorable
experience, to share and showcase her talents, and to give her little
part for a larger charitable cause. But most importantly, all of her
efforts are for a 5-year old hearing-impaired kid named Sean. After
saying her prayers, Sean’s was the last name she silently whispered
before being called on stage and was the first one she thought of each
time after being named this year’s Audience Choice Awardee,
“Magkantahan Tayo” Choice Awardee, and, ultimately, the UTAWIT
Grand Champion.

“I adore kids!” she exclaimed. “Because of Sean, it’s my dream to create
an organization specially for handicapped children.” This feeling was
manifested by the way she attracted the kids backstage, allowing them
to try on her accessories even while she was already wearing them.
Just like any other contestant, she had the jitters before the event but
instead of being distracted by the little ones, she actually embraced the
chance for them to put her at ease before her turn to sing on stage
when she was not secretly rehearsing in the ladies’ room.

Her material was not as dramatically arranged as the other well-known
Tagalog pieces commonly appreciated in singing competitions so she had
to make up for it with a vocal arrangement she personally improvised in
selected crucial parts of the song. And it paid off. Her performance was
a captivating balance of a ballad and R&B style. “Akala ko din dati
pahirapan ng kanta ang basis. I guess I’m a living proof that it’s always
about interpretation,” she shares. Her advice is to always “sing with your
heart, mind, and soul.”

As always, UTAWIT maybe a competition but it has always fostered
bonding among the contestants and also the organizers. “I really enjoyed
the event even as a competition because it’s a rare opportunity na makasama
ko ang isang grupo as talented as my batchmates,” she admits. “It was
very fulfilling. But more than anything, super enjoy!”

Maricar Riesgo maybe proud of her skill in imitating other singers but on the
night of May 7th, it was purely her unique chicness that won her the approval
of both the judges and the crowd. In voice, in image, and in rendition,
Maricar is a total package with a style and a league of her own. UTAWIT is
very proud to have Maricar Riesgo as the year’s representation of what
Filipino’s love for music truly is. To Maricar, our sincerest congratulations!


GUISEPPE LAURO MORTA
2006 UTAWIT 1st Runner-Up
Contest Piece: “Be My Lady”

His tenor voice is without doubt one with the most romantic crisp particularly
when he hit the last note with such ease and clean control during his
performance. “Popet,” who has been a 2004 Rotary Club Song Festival
champion in Manila, oftenly got invited to sing at events and has recorded
the corporate anthem of Nippon Life Philippines where he worked in sales.
He first saw Japan in 1999 and took the opportunity to be back last year
under the Japan International Cooperation Agency scholarship to complete
his master's degree in Business Administration at the Waseda University.
This is in addition to his degree in Communication Research that he received
from UP Diliman where he was a member of the UP Singing Ambassadors.
Coming from a musically inclined lineage, he is currently a member of the
Tokyo International Singers. A true Filipino at heart and spirit, Popet believes
that one should always remember his roots and should positively think
of contributions to our homeland instead of overlooking what we’ve gone
through as a people. “If you keep saying that the Philippines is hopeless,
it’s like saying that you are useless because no matter where we are,
we would always be what the Philippines is all about,” he shares.


MARGARITA ITOH
2006 UTAWIT 2nd Runner-Up
Contest Piece: “Ako Ang Nasawi, Ako Ang Nagwagi”

She had no idea what to expect that night as she did not have the chance to
listen to the other contestants. All she wanted was to give a lasting
performance and to have her most important guest, her youngest child,
witness the talent she’s always strived to uplift from the age of 15 when
she was under the mentorship of Butch Albarracin, the founder of Center
for Pop Music Philippines. Family life became a priority for her until her
love for performing was lured back by her friends to the stage of UTAWIT,
her first contest ever in Japan. With a powerful voice, Margarita gave a
stellar interpretation of one of the most challenging Filipino songs ever
written. Her contest piece is definitely one that requires more than just
a good voice. But for this Saitama resident of 17 years, it was a moving
showcase of how she values music which for her is “the essence of being
the reflection of how one feels.”


March-April 2006 Issue:
Nelia Kanakubo: Rated K!  by Arlene Dinglasan

May "K" ka ba? If so, anong "K" ang meron ka sa buhay mo? Well, ang "K"
na iyan ay ang iyong Karapatan! For our centerfold this issue, let us all learn
the ins and outs of the many "K's" in Nelia's life!

The big "K" in her kamei also known as family name in the English word, is
Nelia's most important possession which no one can deny of. Nelia tied
the "k"not with the one she loves that's why she loves to be called as the
Mrs. "K"anakubo among her "k"ababayans.

"K" sa kapalaran ni Ate Nelia: Early 1980's noong unang mapadpad sa Land
of the Rising Sun si Ate Nelia K para sana mag-aral ng Masters in Oriental
History sa Sophia University. Sa isang international party na dinaluhan niya
ay nakilala niya ang isang gentle at soft-spoken Japanese man, ang
nagpa-"k"ilig, nagpa-"k"aba, nagpa-"k"utob kay Ate Nelia na ito na ang
kanyang magiging "k"abiyak . Matapos ang kanilang pagiging mag-"k"aibigan
sa loob ng tatlong taon ay naisa-"k"atuparan din ang kanilang pangarap na
maging mag-"k"apiling sa habang panahon.

"K" sa kasal ni Ate Nelia: Taong 1988 noong nagdesisyon si Ate Nelia
na magpakasal kay Hidenori Kanakubo sa Pilipinas, matapos ang anim
na buwan ay kasal-Japanese naman ang nagbuklod sa kanilang pag-ibig.
Simula noon, ang mag-asawa ay madalas na nasa Amerika at Europa
upang doon ay mamalagi dahilan na rin sa trabaho ni mister. "Living
overseas helped us grow in understanding our bicultural marriage,"
pagmamalaking kwento ni Ate Nelia K. "Kasi, we both experienced
how to be foreigners in a third country wherein we have learned to be
more in acceptance of each other's culture. He eats tinapa, tuyo, goto,
kare-kare at talbos ng kamote. On the other hand, I don't have qualms
about eating sushi, sashimi and natto. Kailangan yun sa mag-asawa, eh.
If not totally embracing each other's culture, at least both of you must
understand it. Kaya pagbalik namin dito sa Japan noong 1998 ay nakumbise
ako ng isang kaibigan na subukan ang social work sa "K"apatiran na
madali kong naunawaan kung ano nga ba talaga ang kulang sa bicultural
marriages na aking nakakasalamuha dito."

Ang three big "K's" ni Ate Nelia K: Si Ate Nelia bilang isang "K"akampi
ng mga "K"ababaihan sa kanyang serbisyo sa grupong "K"APATIRAN.
Opo, tatlong "K" na naman ang dumagdag sa kanya! Ano nga ba itong
KAPATIRAN at ano ang ginagawa nito sa Japan? KAPATIRAN started 18
years ago primarily to assist Filipina entertainers by visiting them at their
workplace or residence. Majority of these entertainers got married to
Japanese men hoping that their lives would be better. However, most of
them did not finish their life stories with happy endings.
KAPATIRAN helped them tackle and manage their problems brought by
their differences in language, customs and traditions. All of these played
a big role in determining the success and failure of a marriage. "Kapatiran,"
na ang totoo at tunay na kahulugan ay "pagiging magkakapatid"
or brotherhood/sisterhood. Sa Kapatiran lumalapit ang mga maybahay
na ito para mabigyan sila ng agarang atensiyon tulad ng phone
counseling, face-to-face counseling o ang kadalasang direct intervention
tulad halimbawa ng pagsama ng isang interpreter o mediator sa family
court, immigration office at city hall upang makakuha ng sapat na
welfare assistance, at isa na rin ang paghahanap ng lawyer para sa
kung anu-anong kaso.

Ang "K" sa mga kasong nahahawakan ni Ate Nelia K: "K"aso ba kamo?
Hindi po si Ate Nelia ang may kaso. Si Ate Nelia po ang tumutulong sa
mga babaeng biktima ng mga domestic violence. Ang domestic violence
po ay bunga ng pambubugbog o pananakit ng mga asawa sa kanilang
kabiyak - na kadalasang isang Pilipina ay binubugbog at kung minsan
ay dinaramay pati ang bata, mga kinukulong sa loob ng bahay, mga
iniiwan ng asawa para sa ibang babae, ilan lamang yan sa napakarami
at mabibigat na kaso ng domestic violence. Noong nagsisimula pa
lamang ang Kapatiran, karamihan sa mga tumutulong sa kanilang
mga problema ay ang mga dating talento na nakapag-asawa ng
Hapon na nagkakahiwalay ang landas dulot na rin ng hindi pagkakasundo
sa iba't-ibang kadahilanan. Ito ang nagbibigay daan upang ang
Kapatiran ay makatulong sa paglakad ng mga kailangang papeles
tulad ng application for welfare assistance o rights ng mga naabandonang
mag-iina o di kaya naman tinutulungan din sila sa pagpunta sa
immigration office kung mag-desisyon silang umuwi na lang sa
Pilipinas.

Paano nga ba talaga ito nagsimula? Isa ang Kapatiran sa mga
projects na pinapamahalaan ng Nippon Sei Ko Kai (Anglican-Episcopalian
Church) sa Tokyo Diocese. Sinimulan ang proyektong ito noong 1988,
kung kailan napakaraming Pilipino ang dumayo sa Japan para maging
talento. Taong 1990 nang isang Filipino lay missionary ang inimbitahan
ng Diocese para matuunan ng pansin ang dumarami nating mga
kababayang entertainers na nangangailangan ng karamay sa buhay
maybahay ng mga Hapones.Nagsimula lamang sila noon sa serbisyong
telephone counseling at pagbisita sa mga workplace and residence.
At hindi nagtagal ay dumami na ang mga biktima ng domestic violence
pati na rin ang child abuse. Ilan din sa mga dumaming problema ay
may kinalaman sa divorce, single motherhood, unwanted pregnancy,
child custody, child nationality, childrens' right of education, expired visas,
cultural adjustment, relationship with others (in-laws). Other cases
include discrimination felt by half-Japanese children, or minor concerns
such as mothers' inability to look after their childrens' homework, or in
some instances, a Japanese husband saying that he does not understand
his wife's problem is.

Ang "K" sa kamalayan po nating lahat, ating tingnan ang additional
research sa internet:
"Kapatiran, which concentrates on the Filipino community here, states
that more than 80 percent of the inquiries it receives relates to problems
with marriage. The counselor at Kapatiran, Sasaki Kikue, says when she
started the telephone counseling for entertainers at the start of the 1990's,
most of the cases related to unpaid wages, being forced into prostitution,
and problems like sickness or pregnancy."

Paano kaya maiku-kumpara ni Ate Nelia K ang Kapatiran noong nagsisimula
pa lamang ito at ang Kapatiran matapos ang 18 years? Has Ate Nelia
noticed any trends or changes in the situations she has seen over the
period of time since she started serving as a Kapatiran social worker?
At ayon sa kanya, "Yung dating DV lang sa asawa, ngayon may anak
na ring binubugbog. Tapos yung "double" children have identity crisis
kaya most teeners are in reformatory centers. Grabe na rin ang pagdami
ng divorce kaya dumadami ang single parents."

I asked Ate Nelia how has Kapatiran been addressing these issues?
At ang sagot niya, "bukod sa direct intervention, nagbibigay din kami
ng seminars for mothers and kids about awareness on biculturalism
for them to learn to love their "doubleness." Panibagong "k"amalayan
na naman yan para sa atin!


Ang "K" sa napiling karera ni Ate Nelia K:   Hmmmmm.....social work
sa Japan? Medyo mabigat yata itong napiling karera ni Ate Nelia ah!
Pero napag-alaman natin na mula pagkabata pa lamang, tipong social
work na talaga ang kinagiliwan niya. "At an early age of ten, I have
taught cathechism during summer holiday to children younger than me!
It was mostly reading aloud of passages from the Bible (in Tagalog)
and other religious books or magazines. Up until I went to university,
volunteering in public schools and orphanages formed parts of my activities.
I was keen to collect donations like rice, canned foods and old books for
distribution during Christmas. I like to think that I was nurtured from an
early age about the virtue of humility and kindness. I majored in social
work and history in college sa Philippine Women's University. Then took
tuition of English qualification, counseling and interior design in England."

Ang "K" sa mga tunay na kapatid ni Ate Nelia K: Naniniwala si Ate Nelia
sa kasabihang, "charity begins at home" kaya siyempre tinanong ko rin
siya tungkol sa pinanggalingan niyang pamilya. Si Ate Nelia ay panglima
sa walong magkakapatid kung saan ay mayroong apat na babae at apat
ding lalaki na kasama niyang maglaro ng bahay-bahayan at lutu-lutuan
sa likod ng bahay nila. "Batanguena ako. I'm from a small town near Lipa.
 Almost everyone asks whether I am from the Visayan region. Siguro
exposed ako sa mga taga Visayas. Okey lang. I have a lot of friends
from there. Well, I belong to a big family, however, most of us now
live overseas, majority sa U.S. and Australia. But we are really, really
close to each other. Distance does not prevent us from getting in touch.
Minsan nga parang ESP - we ring each other almost at the same time!
Please let me give an axample, my brother in the U.S. who is a doctor
had a car accident. We found out later that we all had bad dreams
around the time of the accident which made us anxious to contact
each other. This month we will have a reunion sa atin - kami lang
without the spouse, kasi we have not had it for quite sometime.
We want to take advantage of this reunion, quality time now that
we are getting older. And it's mostly for reminiscing the past and
laughing so hard we get hiccups.....Or spend a day in Hidden Valley
during the weekdays, when it is so quiet."

Ang "K" sa kalmadong buhay ni Ate Nelia K: Tinanong ko si Ate Nelia
kung paano niya natutugunan ang super demanding na trabaho niya
bilang isang social worker. "I make sure na inaalagaan ko ang sarili
ko kasi siyempre you have to take care of yourself first so you can be
of help to others." Paano niya inaalagan ang sarili niya? "Walking to
unwind. Naglalakad ako ng mga 6 kilometers sa may Edogawa River
every weekend. I love going to onsen and eating leisurely and slowly
with my husband. I started doing yoga again. I eat out with friends.
Kain lang ng kain! After a long day at Kapatiran, I like to spend a
quiet one hour in our flat. I do exercises na pampa-"k"alma and
relaxation techniques like aromatherapy. Mahilig din ako sa "k"usina.
I like making cakes and desserts. Living around Europe with my
husband fulfilled my wish to learn cooking from famous schools
like Cordon De Blue and Tante Marie."

Ang "K" sa mga kababayan ni Ate Nelia: Matapos ang walong taong
paglilingkod sa "k"ababayan hindi lamang sa Kapatiran ngunit pati
na rin sa Labor Section ng Philippine Embassy sa Tokyo, malungkot
man ay iiwan muna niya ang Japan para samahan ang asawa sa
bagong assignment nito sa China. Pero kahit yata saan mapunta si
Ate Nelia, hindi basta mahihinto sa bahay ang social worker by
nature na ito. Kasi habang nasa China, plano rin niyang mag-aral
ng Chinese sa Chinese University, bunga marahil ito ng one of the
biggest lessons that she has learned from her mother - the value
of education. Bukod sa pag-aaral ng language, plano rin niyang
mag-volunteer sa orphanage, mag-aral ng Chinese cooking at...sa
maniwala kayo't sa hindi, i-trace ang kanyang ninuno! Opo, may
dugong Intsik din ksi si Ate Nelia kaya sasamantalahin na niyang
hanapin ang mga "k"amag-anak habang nasa China siya!

Ang "K" sa mga kabilin-bilinan ni Ate Nelia: Sa pansamantalang
paglisan ni Nelia Kanakubo sa Japan, ay gusto niyang iparating sa
inyo na: "There's always a light at the end of the tunnel - just believe
in that! Kahit anong hirap, may "k"atapusan. Huwag lang mawawalan
ng pag-asa that life is beautiful!"

Napakarami niya talagang "K" ano po? Bukod sa Kapatid, Kaibigan,
Kakampi di lamang ng mga Kababaihan, iba-iba man ang Kaso mo,
meron ka pa ring Karapatan! Kaya huwag Kaligtaang bigyan ang
sarili ng Kamalayan sa Kultura ng Japan at ituro sa mga anak at
kakilala ang kulturang kinagisnan. Hindi magtatagal, katulad ni
Nelia K., Kalma ka lang habang enjoy sa buhay at leisure na kain
sa kusina. Kaya't sa buwang ito ng Marso, and Buwan ng Kababaihan,
huwag pong Kakalimutan, sabi nga ng ating featured bida, na ang
lahat ng hirap ay may Katapusan!

Kami pong lahat na "K"asama ninyo sa biyahe ng Jeepney Press
ay mag-iiwan din ng isang paalala na lahat tayo ay may "K"  at opo,
lahat tayo ay may kakayahan - kakayahan na pagyamanin ang
kaalaman, alamin ang ating mga karapatan, at higit sa lahat ay
ang magmahal sa ating Kapwa!



January-February 2006 Issue:
MARIA EVA: A SONGBIRD SOARS HIGH by Dennis Sun

Sabi nga, "Many are called, but few are chosen." Ganito rin sa field ng mga Filipino singers sa Japan. So many Filipino singers come here for employment and try their luck. But it's not that many who are able to penetrate the mainstream Japanese market. Some are contented to work here and send money back home. Some make it and move on to other countries. Some get contented with marriage and raising a family forgetting their dream of becoming a singing superstar. Still, many just go back home.

Very few are indeed chosen. Nandiyan si Marlene dela Pena who started as a pop idol when she was only in her teens. Kung may Teresa Teng and Judy Ong from Taiwan, Agnes Chan from Hong Kong, may Marlene tayo from the Philppines. From a pop idol, she evolved into a jazz celebrity here in Japan. Just ask your Japanese friends and ask them if they know Mariin. That's how she is called here. Most likely, kilala siya. Then, we have Charito. She has covered all kinds of music from soul to samba, from jingles to jazz.  Actively participating in many major jazz festivals worldwide, she still finds time to teach at her voice school in Tokyo. Marlene and Charito boast a long list of CD albums already that were released in Japan and around the world and have received several accolades and awards.

But is there still space for a soaring songbird onstage?

I was attacked by my insomnia one night several winters ago and zapped my TV remote to a Yokohama channel. It was a Hawaiian music program on the tube. After delighting myself watching some hula dancing, the hosts introduced a singer named Maria Eva. The name itself sounded very Filipino. "Could she be a...?,"  I asked myself seeing an Asian lady onstage. Once she started singing, the issue is solved. She sang a Tagalog classic, "Sampaguita."  There is something so regal and elegant about the way this songbird carried herself. Even by the way she sings, there is something about the way the words and the melodies articulate themselves. I was mesmerized and intrigued that night. I wanted to know more about her.

During spare times, I would go to Tower Record or HMV stores looking for some nice CDs. At the jazz section, sometimes I would be delighted to see other Filipino singers on the CD rack besides Marlene and Charito. I've seen Kuh Ledesma's and Lea Salonga's U. S. released albums. But one summer afternoon at the Tower Record shop in Shibuya, Tokyo, I have been lucky enough to see another Filipino singer on the rack. This time, it was Maria Eva's CD, Stardust. It was a collection of standard American songs plus one Filipino classic, "Dahil Sa 'Yo."

Maria Eva's CD, Stardust, is a work of art. One can listen to it all day long and not end up with sore eardrums. Her voice is truly an instrument. It stretches. It yields. It contracts. It growls. All I know now is that this lady has amazing talent. Thus, I wanted to know more about this Pinay songstress.

I was able to contact her and we set a date. We had a late brunch on a rainy Saturday. She reminded me of a great American jazz singer, Lena Horne. She doesn't only resemble her, she also sings like her at times. We talked about life, about Japan, and about music. Minutes turned into hours and it was almost dark. When talking wasn't enough, we would hum tunes and sing songs together every now and then. We got high discussing about music as we compared notes. She was so generous about sharing me her singing techniques she had developed all these years. She even wanted us to go to a karaoke box to demonstrate her artistry and reveal to me the secrets of her vocal modus operandi. With her status as a veteran singer, I was actually expecting to meet a diva but didn't find one. She's just like one of your ordinary kababayan talking to you!

I know an interview with her wouldn't suffice.  I must watch one of her concerts soon to experience the brilliance of her craft.

It's great to find Filipinos penetrating the mainstream market in Japan. Maria Eva is another musical breakthrough.  Jeepney Press is honored to have an exceptional kababayan grace the centerfold of our first issue this year.

How long have you been in Japan?
About 23 years.
What brought you here?
I came here as a contract worker through a Japanese production.
What were your impressions of Japan before coming here?
I knew then that it would be tough...a lot of barriers would be in store especially the language, writings and their unique customs and traditions. Japan was a total strange land for me.
Was it different then from now?
Hmmm, how should I say it? We had to commute by trains those days. It was difficult. They didn't have any English written signs at the train stations so we have to count it with our fingers everytime the train stops. It was an awful and funny situation (ha,ha,ha). Before, not a lot of Japanese can speak English. The young generation now is completely active getting out of the country and exploring different sides of the planet. At least, you can communicate to some passers if you get lost nowadays.
How was it during your early years as a singer in Japan?
I enjoyed it a lot and had fun discovering everything. The music that I do and the kind of music I hear everyday, which is ENKA, is very unfamiliar to me. But I obliged myself to learn their music. I know that someone would be asking me to sing some of their tunes so I had to be ready. It was indeed an experience.
Who among the famous singers influenced your style? The first time I saw you sing, I was actually reminded of the great Lena Horne in terms of looks and singing style.
Really? I like her singing too. I don't know if I'm influenced by my idols but I like Sarah Vaughn, Carmen McRae, Shirley Bassey, Nancy Wilson and many more.
How did the Japanese accept you as a singer?
I think I was welcomed.
You work with Japanese musicians. How do they relate to you being non-Japanese and being a Filipina?
They're all nice and they support my career. I go along with them very smoothly. Usually, they treat me like family at work.
Is it difficult for a Filipino singer to conquer the music field here in Japan?
I started differently because I just wanted to have a job and used my little ability to sing. I was introduced to a place where the pianist was into jazz and he encouraged me to sing more jazz music. I didn't know how I got in. I just found that I was warmly welcomed. Then, everything went into place. Perhaps I was just lucky but I had to do my best also. This is a different country with a different culture and set of laws. Talent alone is not enough. As a foreign artist, we need their help to guide us along the way. Without their help, no one can go far.
You have been in this field for quite some time and gained a high respect being a veteran singer. Do people consider you a "diva" - meaning you have an attitude of trying to be a perfectionist and are difficult with the people you work with?
I don't have that. Low-profile lang ako. Music is my life and I just want to do music.  Add to that, I love people and I want to be with them and talk to them. When there's communication, there's no worries.
In your case, how did you realize that you have to be a singer?
At a very young age of five, I had been singing in the church for about 16 years. We sang very early morning from 4 am to 6:30 am during the Latin mass. I grew up also in a musical family. My  mother's father and my father's father are both musicians. My grandmother from my father's side is a soprano singer who plays violin. My parents' brass band always had rehearsals in our backyard every Saturday and Sunday. I was surrounded by music all my life. And I knew I was going to that direction and music was in my blood already.
When did you realize that and what did you do?
I didn't rush. I just work and did what I had to do. As I mentioned before, I was working in a place where jazz was a favorite considering the pianist I worked with was really good and made all my arrangements. My main concern then was primarily to help my family so I had to be good at work. But I was lucky I was surrounded by good and talented people who recognized my talent.
There are so many Filipinos here in Japan with great voices and would like to follow your foot-steps. What advice would you give them?
Study a lot and don't abuse yourself. Refrain from smoking cigarettes and drinking hard liquor. That's the key to keep the throat in good condition. And have a lot of patience. Enjoy your job and keep on learning.
What is your usual typical day? What keeps you busy when not working?
When not singing, I teach at home. I have some students who come to my house to learn some vocal techniques. I also continue to learn more by going out to Blue Note and some places. I want to go to places where there is good music around.
Can you tell us about the students on your voice lessons?
Yeah, you mean how they sing? Well, first they are not English speakers which I find very tough in the first place. Unlike our kababayans, they cannot relate well with the lyrics of the songs. And I find it hard to let them pronounce correctly the words of the songs. But by and by, with much practice and study, all these will be overcome.
How would you compare Japanese music from Filipino music?
Completely different if we are talking about "enka".
So far, you have recorded two albums released in Japan: Maria Eva's Club and Stardust. Can you give us a background on the albums?
Yes. The first album is mostly originals and the second one is purely jazz with a Tagalog song,  "Dahil Sa 'Yo."  The first album was released 1991 when I started singing professionally. I worked with young Japanese musicians so we did a lot of pops, not jazz. They wrote some original tunes mixed with some musicals like "Cabaret and Bali Hai." The second one is jazz album with songs mainly arranged by a Japanese pianist named Naoki Kitajima who is the pianist of the famous Japanese violinist Naoko Terao. I included "Dahil Sa 'Yo" because this song makes me cry whenever I sing it. I don't know why so don't ask me.
You started singing pops and ballads. Now you are mostly into jazz. What made you focus your music into jazz?
I'm not only into jazz. Although I was just very lucky to be working with a lot of jazz musicians. Whenever I have shows, I try my best to sing different kinds of stuff from pop songs, dance tunes, standards. You name it. I want to reach more people so I try to do many things as much as possible. I can even do classic songs if I have to.
Do you always include Filipino songs into your repertoire?
Sometimes. I always try to sing Tagalog songs as much as possible but unfortunately, they are too difficult to sing because I end up crying. I get so emotional when singing Tagalog songs.
You have won the Japan Jazz Vocal Award for Best Singing Techniques in 2002. Can you tell us something about this?
It's not a competition but special award. I didn't even know that I was nominated then. I just received a message that I have to dress up on that day because I am one of the recipients.
After all these years, do you have other things you would like to do and achieve?
I just do the best I can do. I would also like to share my experiences to everyone.  If there are fund raising shows that need my help, I am most willing to share my God-given talent to help the unfortunate and needy.
What do you think are the elements of success?
That's a difficult question. Mmmm... Hardwork and patience. No matter how high you have climbed on the ladder of success, always be humble.  Find happiness in your work. If you don't find it, there's no sense to continuing it.



Issue November-December 2005:
CENTERFOLD:
Alma Reyes-Umemoto: Sharing a Passion On Design and the Written Page
ni Tony L. Fernandez

Alma Reyes-Umemoto, designer, editor, wife, and mother does not strike one as a Filipina,
probably because she exudes a cosmopolitan aura. But, listening to her speak about her
recent involvement in producing “Mini House Style,” a recently published Harper Design
International book now available in English bookstores in Japan, one can sense
her enthusiasm that is unmistakably that of a kababayan. As plans for this feature
were being made, nakapag-share din siya tungkol sa pagpapalaki ng only daughter
niya. Bukod doon, her Japanese husband’s job makes her and her daughter go wherever
he is assigned—the last countries, being Senegal and France. So, culture and values play
a large role in the choices she makes in her daily life and work.

She came to Japan in 1986 as a Japanese Education Ministry scholar, and took
her masters in design at the Kyoto Institute of Technology. After she graduated,
she found the opportunity to work in Japan, and one thing led to the next.
Here is a woman with a passion. Alamin natin kung ano iyon.

JP: “Mini House Style,” featuring mini houses from different countries,
was a creative collaboration between Japanese and foreign professionals.
It’s very international. It must have been hard work to put the book together.
Can you speak about your work, and how this book was born?
AR: The “Mini House Style” is the first attempt of “ricorico,” the production/editing
group that I belong to, to produce a book on our own as authors. “Baby book” nga
ang tawag namin dito. Our manager discussed the possibility of producing a book
on mini houses around the world with Loft Publications, a known Spanish publisher
from Barcelona. They gave us the freedom to form the concept, research, lahat-lahat,
and gave us a production budget. Dapat may mga ibang language editions din ito.
We are also trying to find a Japanese publisher to contract a Japanese edition.
JP: So, basically, your input in this book was as an editor.
AR: Well, as copy editor and researcher, I was assigned to produce the furniture section,
the second part of the book. So, I asked for design contributions from furniture designers
all over the world. Since I majored in interior design, I was really thrilled to do the job,
and to be able to correspond with major world-renowned designers. Later, sabi ng
manager namin kung puede ako na rin ang mag-research ng mga bahay from
international architects. It was hard work, but inspiring.
JP: Dito sa Japan, nasanay na tayo na makarinig ng 2DK, wa-shitsu, etc., at tumira
sa mga tinatawag na “rabbit’s hutch.” That’s the kind of living space we have in Japan.
Can you call that “mini?” Ano ba ‘yong “mini house?”
AR: Of course, that can be called a “mini house” lifestyle. I think there is no other country
in the world than Japan that best exemplifies this concept. Kaya nga, in the beginning,
hirap din kami to confine our floor area target within 50m . We realized sa Japan lang
yata ito posible! Except for the U.S. projects that had an exceptional maximum area of
150m2 , all the houses that you see in this book have an area within 100m2 even if they
didn’t look it. But, size was not the only target of our concept. We selected houses that
had dynamic and innovative designs, and that made use of creative space enough to
accommodate a limited area or lifestyle. A “mini-house” can also mean: one plus one
equals three; that is, a small home can look three times bigger with the use of flexible
and versatile pieces and materials.
JP: It’s really good that you have kept in touch with Filipinos of your profession. One of
the furniture designers you selected for the book was a Filipino. Tell us more about the
furniture section in the book.
AR: Josef Crisanto, the Filipino designer featured in this book, was my classmate in interior
design in the Philippines, and a good friend who is based in Marseille. I think he’s also
well known in the Philippines as he often exhibits his works in furniture fairs, like in the
yearly Manila F.A.M.E. (Furnishings and Apparel Manufacturers Exchange). For this book,
I just tried to search for designs that met the attributes of compact design: stack-ability,
flexibility, mobility, and versatility—as in multi-purpose furniture, like Josef’s design in
this book. Ideally, we think that small houses can only accommodate “small-sized”
furniture; pero, hindi totoo yon completely. We can design flexible or multi-purpose
furniture of any size to save space—and, that would make a house look “mini.”
JP: But, how did you get involved in this kind of work, being a designer by profession?
AR: My first job in Japan was as a Visual Aids Manager in McKinsey & Co., an American
management consulting firm, which involved presenting graphics and charts for client
manuals. I suppose that started my link with publication design. After a few years,
I worked for Graphic-sha Publishing, which also han-dled books on design and graphics.
That was where I focused more on editorial work. I had always loved to write. Siguro,
natuto kong i-halo ang writing and designing. Sometimes, I still design when I receive
“invitations,” like a recent promotional poster and program design I did for a tap
dance company…things like that.
JP: What attracted you to study in Japan? After your studies, you got a job.
How would you describe the job opportunities for your profession then?
AR: I first came to Japan in 1978. Then, I don’t know why, but I loved everything about
this place: culture, people, food. Since that trip, I became a sort of a Japan freak!
Totoo! (Laughs.) I prayed so hard to live in Japan. Shucks, nakakatawa nga pag naiisip
ko ngayon. Then, I learned about the Monbusho program. I was very interested
specifically in traditional Japanese design, like urushi (lacquerware), pottery…
so I thought of coming to study here.
As for job opportunities after my studies, although I tried to apply for some
architectural firms, I was more successful with design planning or design project
coordination offices. But, I was caught in the middle of the bubble economy in Japan
in the early ‘80s when the design project coordination office I was working for in
Tokyo became bankrupt. So, I had to find other jobs, and somehow, landed in the
publishing world.
JP: Paano naman makipag-trabaho with Japanese professionals? Paano mo na-babalanse
ang buhay mo bilang housewife at professional? 
AR: Oh…mahirap! Alam mo naman tayo, sanay sa American working style.
We can be opinionated, expressive, and also not shy to initiate new ideas, diba.
Pero mahirap ma-achieve ito with Japanese professionals. In meetings, mahilig
silang mag-discuss na walang conclusion, mag-agree pero hindi mag-disagree!
‘Hai, hai…so desu ne,’ you know…panay ganon. I think in the Japanese workplace,
age and sexual identity weigh a lot, kasi hierarchical society sila. Takot din sila sa
experimentation, kaya mabagal ang decision-making process.
Since my work now is freelance, I only work when my daughter is in school. Minsan,
I look like I am always running after time. But, I also give time to my own space naman:
reading a book in the café, watching movies, seeing friends, or attending my yoga classes.
It’s not easy balancing such a work pace with duties at home, or giving attention to my
daughter. But, I think when we have children, we just have to train ourselves to know
when to stop.
JP: Returning to Japan after spending five years in two other countries, what was it like
when you came back to Japan? You were living in two French-speaking countries with
very different cultures. What re-adjustments did you have to make on your return?
AR: It was basically culture shock returning to Japan after five years. You know, both
Senegal and France are quite laid-back countries, in terms of lifestyle. Life there was
very simple and slow-paced. I found that people in Paris and around Europe know how
to relax more—pass time in cafés, walk leisurely, and expose themselves culturally to
museums, concerts…yung ganon. I actually learned to love that kind of life, and still
do. So, pagbalik namin sa Tokyo, immediately, I wanted to go back to France!
Suddenly, all this attention to technology started to become offensive! Having to
squeeze yourself again in crowded subways, so many people, so much noise, so much
hi-tech fever around, people running and running…parang, you realize nobody relaxes
in this place—it’s awful!
It’s been three years now since we got back, and I’m still re-adjusting to Tokyo life.
Personally, I try to avoid going downtown. Even the school environment here is so different.
When my daughter went to kindergarten school in Paris, parents were not so involved in
the school activities. Pero, dito, baliktad! The schools here really involve parents as much
as they can to the point that it becomes obligatory. Then, of course, there’s that typical
Japanese homogeneous culture, whereas, abroad, it was a free culture. But, that’s the way
it is in Japan, right. We just try to accept things as they come, or else we’ll become
crazy! (Laughs.)
JP: What did you miss and not miss most in Japan?
AR: That’s interesting to comment on. While living in Dakar, I think I missed the Japanese
food, as it was not easily available there—furikake, umeboshi, soba…things like that.
Of course, I missed the Japanese efficiency and convenience, which were totally absent
in Africa! But, since I come from the Philippines (where we all know efficiency is not
the best virtue), and accepted Senegal as a developing country, I didn’t expect comfort
and efficiency. Japanese food, however, was available in France, mahal lang nga.
Of all the things I did not miss from Japan, I would say, was the Japanese system
of having so many rules. Alam na natin iyon. The French are very flexible. Their
metros run by flat fares regardless of distance, samantalang dito, super-calculado
lahat. I did not miss the fact that everything in Japan has to operate by the book,
no exception. In Paris, for example, you can charm the police—i-humor mo lang sila
nang konti, ok na. Kung dito, pag ginawa mo yon, baka sabihin lang sa iyo ng police,
“Nani?” (Laughs.)
JP: If you were to design a house of your own, what would it be like?
AR: I’ve always thought of my own house to be small, but situated on a spacious lot.
I like wood, a lot of windows, free space, shoji doors, maybe a lot of verandas, too —
like the traditional Japanese “engawa” (Japanese traditional corridor veranda) because
I always like to look out. I imagine a combination of all of that and the modern.
JP: Lalo na doon sa mga nagpaplanong magpagawa o magpa-renovate ng bahay,
ano ang parting words mo para sa JP readers?
AR: Well, there’s nothing like putting all your creative imagination under one roof, sabi
nga nila. Design is limitless. I think it’s most important to study the family’s pattern of
behavior and basic needs, and the daily routes around the house. Sometimes, we get
carried away with so many brilliant design ideas just because they look good, but if they
are not functional, the home suffers. In compact design, of course, the basic rule is to use
maximum space as much as possible. Kahit yung mga maliliit na sulok, nagagamit din.
Perhaps, one approach is to take a piece of block and stare at it for a long time. Puede
nating isipin kung anu-anong mga bagay ang magagawa dito. Having one piece that serves
multiple functions really helps to create a dynamic home. I hope that everyone will have a
chance to buy the “Mini House Style,” and use it as their home design bible. Thank you for
giving me the opportunity to talk about it in Jeepney Press.


Book Review by A.L. Fernandez
Mini House Style, ricorico
Harper Design International
(HarperCollins Publishers)
2004, 192 pages, hardcover

Switch on the TV on a weekend, and you are sure to find a TV program featuring houses.
A favorite of this reviewer presents homes that their owners take pride in; another one
shows the renovation process in making a problematic house both livable and lovable.
While these TV programs are strikingly captured by camera, the experience of viewing
them is ephemeral as the houses “disappear” once the show is over. There is nothing like
a book that you can hold and flip through as often as you wish, that triggers your imagination,
or stimulates you visually. Mini House Style fulfills these objectives. 

Mini House Style is, as the text in the inside cover says, a book about “small homes with
large designs”.  It is also about functional spaces that are responsive to the owners’ lifestyles. 
On the front cover is the facade of Casa Valls, measuring an area of 851 sq. ft. (79 sq. m.).
The house is located close to the historic center of Barcelona, and is uniquely characterized
by spaces that create a sense of openness. This residence and twenty-seven other small houses
from twelve countries are described in an interesting interview format. The respective architects
and designers discuss three questions on focal points about their projects: the design concept
and reason for compactness; the most striking feature or element that makes the design unique;
and “Five Commandments” for effective architectural design. This last item serve as guidelines
in designing a functional house.

We also see and read about houses situated in the business center and second homes used
for weekends or long vacations. The book features remodeled houses and innovative
prototype projects. For those thinking of remodeling, Mini House Style has an old stone
French farmhouse in Normandy that was converted into a vacation house to serve as guide.
What appears to be basic living turns out to be a pleasant composition of new functional
spaces, attractive colors, and creative use of metal and wood.
 
Compact houses not only mean functional spaces, but also budget concerns. Casa Bola from
Sao Paulo, Brazil meets both charac-teristics, even as it affirms a physical reality:
“The sphere is the volume with the least surface area.” 

The prototypes suggest flexibility and mobility, with the floating house (France) as a
perfect example of an artist’s studio and lodge for the river-lover. Other floating homes
in the Amazon, the Hudson River, and Tonle Sap Lake excite the imagination about what
it would be like to live in them.

Houses from Japan are limited to five, an adequate number to illustrate the occupants’
varied lifestyles, and the different site characteristics. One project from Japan worth
mentioning is the hillside house in Yamaguchi prefecture with a view of the Seto Inland
sea. This shows us how to cool a residential structure in summer by utilizing the northern
slope.

Apart from the photos of the interiors and exteriors of the houses, Mini House Style also
incorporates architectural sketches, models, floor plans and drawings that enable the reader
to see the creative vision behind each house, from conception to birth. Floor plans, for example,
are blown up to position the photos of the corresponding spaces strategically on them.
This gives added value to the book as the architect’s plan is ‘translated’ through the pictures
for the layman.

There are also several great photograph compositions. A particularly striking one is taken
from the interior of a vacation house, looking out from a huge floor to ceiling glass panel
to the surrounding Swiss mountains—the beautiful scenery is craftily framed by the perimeter
of the room. Visually appealing, Mini House Style is an interesting coffee table book that the
reader can browse through.

The last dozen pages contain well presented and documented photographs of different kinds
of furniture for compact living by designers from various countries (Austria, France, Germany,
Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Philippines, UK, USA, Yugoslavia, and more). The furniture are a
nice  fit for small houses, representing innovative designs that save space (by stacking or
folding), “manipulate” areas, and increase usefulness because of their multipurpose versatility.

The book is not exactly a catalog of ideas from which we can choose from when asking an
architect’s advice about solving a design problem. Rather, it allows us to imagine the
infinite possibilities for creative mini house design, aided by guidelines that are provided by
famous worldwide architects and designers.  Chief editor and producer Rico Komanoya’s
generous acknowledgment gives appropriate credit to her pool of talented staff who have
created a handsome reference volume. The credits are painstakingly documented with details
(not unlike the now indispensable website information) on how to contact the featured architects
or designers.

Somehow, the measurements used in the book are not in the familiar metric units (square feet,
not square meters), obviously to cater to the American market. Also people who live in the
tropics may not find the houses presented in this book suitable for strictly dry and wet seasons,
or for humid climates, due for instance, to the absence of wide awnings. Perhaps, a book on
practical small houses for the tropics might well be the next project for the production group, “ricorico.”


------------------------------------------------------------------------
Issue September-October
CENTERFOLD: On The Air with Helen Francisco

Isang Panayam sa Isang Tagapagpanayam
ni: Arlene Dinglasan


Hindi lang natin s’ya basta nakakahalubilo sa iba’t ibang events sa Filipino community, umaalingawngaw din sa radyo ang matamis niyang boses, at nakikita pa natin sa TV ang inosente at masayahin niyang mukha.  At dahil tila iba’t ibang kulay ng kalikasan sa Taglagas ang kahalintulad ng abilidad niya, ni hindi rin ito ang unang artikulong naisulat tungkol sa ating featured Pinoy sa issue na ito ng Jeepney Press.  Bakit naman hindi?  Sikat siya sa galing at dalubhasa sa pag-i-interview sa radyo man o telebisyon!  Siya si HELEN FRANCISCO, pamilyar na pangalan saan mang sulok ng Japan.  Kilalanin natin siya nang lubusan.  Kanyang role ay ating baligtarin…siya naman ang ating kapanayamin.

JP::    Ano ang ginagawa ng beauty mo sa Land of the Rising Sun?
HF:     You name it!  DJ-ing, radio and TV hosting, customer service management, program editing, commercial recording, skiing, roller-blading, kendo, editing, pottery, tennis, horseback-riding,  etcetera, etcetera!
JP:      Wait lang, Helen….Na-overwhelm kami sa haba ng iyong resume.  Paki-kwento mo nga sa amin isa-isa?  Kelan ka pa ba dito sa Japan at mukhang napakadami na ng iyong accomplishment?
HF:    Hindi ko na nga yata matandaan e…Teka…1989 nung una akong napadpad dito sa Japan kasi dinala ako dito ng ex-husband ko na producer ng isang recording company.  Pero di ko feel ang Japan noon kaya five years pa rin akong nag-stay sa Pilipinas.
JP:    Aba!  History pa lang, may paka-unique ka na yata!  Ano naman kaya ang naging turning point at nagdecide ka na rin dito sa bandang huli?
HF:    Siyempre, ang anghel ng buhay kong si Yuri, my one and only daughter na dumating sa buhay ko noong 1994.  Mula noong ipinanganak siya, nag-iba na ang takbo ng buhay ko.  Halos pagkapanganak ko pa lang sa kanya, nagkaroon ng InterFM, the only international radio station in Japan.  Isa ako sa mga pioneer DJ’s doon and the rest was history.
JP:    Ibig sabihin, nasundan na nang nasundan ang swerteng iyon with InterFM?
HF:    Sinuswerte nga yata tayo.  Sa ngayon, may sarili akong radio program sa Nagoya, ang “Radio Eye 79.5 World Connection Tugtugang Pinoy” mula pa noong year 2000.  Siyempre, Pinoy music ang pinapatugtog natin para sa mga kababayan nating uhaw sa musikang sariling atin.
JP:    Bongga!  Mahirap ba?  Masarap?  Masaya?  Bigyan mo naman kami ng idea kung paano ang buhay ng isang tulad mo?  May merits and hardships ba ang propesyong napili mo?
HF:    Merits ng pagdi-DJ?  Marami!  Masaya kasi natututo akong mag-Nihonggo at marami akong nami-meet na iba’t ibang klaseng tao.  Favorite ko yung guest corner kasi dahil dun, hindi ko basta na-meet kundi nakakwentuhan ko pa ang iba’t ibang recording artists sa atin, gaya nina Jaya, Angelika dela Cruz, Ted Ito at marami pang iba.  Siyempre kasama yung mga naka-base dito sa Japan like Ruby Moreno, Charito, Marlene dela Pena at Rex Angeles.  And of course, international artists such as Mylene and Backstreet Boys.  Madalas akong nagpupunta sa mga concerts para makapag-interview ako ng mga singers kaya love na love ko talaga ang trabahong ito.  Ang masasabi ko lang sigurong hirap, dapat palagi akong updated sa music industry sa Pilipinas at dahil mabilis ang takbo ng music industry sa atin, hindi pa yata ako nakakapagbakasyon ng lalampas sa isang buwan.  Or else, mahuhuli sa balita ang mga kababayan natin dito diba?
JP:    Mukhang enjoy ka nga sa larangan ng music a?  Talaga bang nasa hilig mo yan?
HF:    Sinabi mo!  Naalala ko nga, nakapag-release ako ng singing album noong nasa InterFM pa ako.  Nagkaroon kasi ng contest ng DJ personalities sa Karaoke Festival sa Odaiba noong minsan at out of 30 contestants, nanalo ako ng 2nd place.  Dahil doon, may naka-discover sa aking producer ng album at talagang pinilit akong mag-record kahit na tanggi ako nang tanggi kasi hiyang hiya ako.
JP:    Bakit ka naman nahihiya, e malaking opportunity yun?
HF:    Mahiyain talaga ako kahit nung araw pa e.  Lagi lang akong nasa isang sulok kaya sabi ng iba, ang hirap ko raw i-approach.  Pero pag nagkabiruan na tayo…naku!  Super kalog ang lola mo!
JP:    Tell us about the album.  Natuloy ba?
HF:    Na-release siya nung 1997.  Different Filipino songs in Reggae style ang kinanta ko.  Mga kanta ng mga paborito kong singers na sina Jose Mari Chan, Gary V at Kuh Ledesma ang mga songs natin sa album na pinamagatang Coconuts Love.
JP:    Sounds exciting!  Bukod sa radio, ano pan’g raket ng beauty mo?
HF:    Main raket ko yung trabaho ko sa WINS channel.  Bukod kasi sa pagiging reporter ko for WINS, ako rin ang Technical Director at kung minsan ay cameraman.  At dahil hindi naman araw-araw ang shooting, ako rin ang Customer Service Center manager.
JP:    Ano naman ang kwento ng trabaho sa WINS?  Ano ang matatawag mong merits and demerits ng trabahong ito?
HF:    Naku!  Super enjoy ako diyan kasi bukod sa Nihonggo, technical naman ang natutunan ko dito.  Dito sa WINS ako natuto ng editing, directing, at pagkuha ng magandang shots sa camera.  Kaya nga lang, puyatan talaga kasi madalas hanggang umaga ako sa studio.  Pero siyempre, oks lang kasi para sa mga kababayan natin yan.
JP:    Pwede talaga nating i-compare sa autumn leaves ang abilities mo – ang daming kulay!  May mahihiling ka pa ba sa buhay?
HF:    Wala naman masyado.  Pero someday, gusto kong lumibot sa buong mundo kaya gusto kong mag-aral ng iba’t ibang language.  Pero gusto ko, pagtanda ko, uuwi pa rin ako sa Pilipinas, doon siyempre ako lumaki kasama ng 6 ko pang mga kapatid na masaya kong kasama sa pamumulot ng basyo ng bala para mapaglaruan.  Gusto kong ituloy ang hobby kong pamamaril as a sport.  Nasa Philippine scout kasi ang Tatay ko at sa Fort Santiago na ako pinanganak at nagkaisip.  Spoiled nga ako sa Tatay ko e, kaya sa tuwing uuwi ako sa atin, mula sa airport, dadaan muna ako sa Libingan ng mga Bayani.  Namana ko siguro ang pagiging workaholic ng Tatay ko kaya inuuna ko muna siyang dalawin bago pa man ako dumiretso sa bahay namin sa Taguig…

Iwan muna natin sa pagbabalik-gunita si Helen sa kanyang private world na para sigurong video tape na bigla na lang nag-on at siya lang ang nakakapanood.  Balik na rin tayo sa reality mula sa ating imagination na matikman ang pag-i-interview ng isang magaling na interviewer.  At namnamin ang sarap ng pagsilip sa buhay ng isang personalidad na tila  iba’t ibang hugis ng dahong kumukulay sa ating paligid sa panahon ng Taglagas.  Parang nagsasabing, “Live your life to the fullest and find a way to share it with the world around you”.