END OF YEAR THANKSGIVING PARTY!

Everybody is invited to our annual HFC Christmas Party to be held on December 19, 2009 at the Maurice Rawling Community Center, starts at around 7:00 pm.

Members are all welcome to bring food to share for the said celebrations.

Happy Holidays!

prayer by Minister Joe Wright

When Minister Joe Wright was asked to open the new session of the Kansas Senate, everyone was expecting the usual generalities, but this is what they heard: Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask your forgiveness and to seek your direction and guidance. We know Your Word says, 'Woe to those who call evil good, ' but that is exactly what we have done. We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed our values. We have exploited the poor and called it the lottery . We have rewarded laziness and called it welfare. We have killed our unborn and called it choice. We have shot abortionists and called it justifiable. We have neglected to discipline our children and called it building self esteem.. We have abused power and called it politics. We have coveted our neighbor's possessions and called it ambition. We have polluted the air with profanity and pornography and called it freedom of expression. We have ridiculed the time-honored values of our forefathers and called it enlightenment. Search us, Oh, God, and know our hearts today; cleanse us from every sin and set us free. Amen!

Bayanihan Night

Everybody is invited to attend the Bayanihan Night. A charity auction dinner and dance on
October 30, 2009 at 7:00 PM at BOOM cafe bar, 86 Prospect Street, HU2 8PE.

Ticktes are available at £10.00 per adult/childrens are free. Discounted rates available for senior citizens.

All proceeds will go to typhoon victims in the Philippines.

Tickets are available from all HFC Officers.

details of fundraising

The fundraising for typhoon victim is on going and anybody who wanted to give something can give now. I know it might be asking so much from all of you to give not only some of your possessions as well as your time, but if we want to accumulate as much money as possible we need everybody's help. The officers have work and families the same as everyone else and as some of you have pointed out. We need to complete this mission as soon as possible as the victims are running out of aids. Doing a house to house is a very good idea but it would only be effective if everybody will help the officers do it. Things will get done quicker. Thank you all for your cooperation.

fundraising for filipino typhoon victims

TO ALL HFC MEMBERS:

We as a community would like to extend whatever help we can to the Philippines. To aid our affected kababayans from the harsh tragedy that was bough by Ondoy. The officers are organizing a relief operation to accumulate funds that we could contribute to help provide basic necessities such as food, water, clothing and medicine to our ailing countrymen. In view of this, we would like to ask for any donation that you could give, cash or kind. This will be very valuable to all the typhoon victims’ survival. Pls. give a little so these people can live and survive each day. Their needs are basic food, safe and clean drinking water, clothing and medicines (esp. for the children) things that we are in abundance to a point we are taking for granted. Basic things that’s worth more than gold when there is none. we have also posted our plea for help in the NHS newsletter or if you want to ask from your coleagues, a letter was drafted to be posted in your respective work place. pls. ring Rona(01482 320227)(r_suelo@yahoo.com) for a copy.

For all cash donation pls. contact Gladys(01482 322849), Gani(01482 213383), and Leslie(01482 610776)

For all other donations pls. contact any officers near you. Or pls. bring you donation to 32 Ganstead Lane. Bilton. Hull. HU11 4AU (Dories address) (tel.no.813184).

We also would like to respectfully remind anybody who has not yet paid their annual/monthly dues to pls. pay it now. A pound could feed a whole family so every penny counts. Some of you are asking for our community to do something worthwhile, well here it is. We as a community can work together to make a difference. A little help goes a long way to the people receiving it.

Thank you all in advance!

little help goes a long way

in view of the recent tragedy that hit our beloved country, we are feeling a strong sense of responsibility to help our affected kababayans. In vue of this, we are organizing a relief operation to contribute to the massive aid needed to assist our fellow filipinos. Anybody who would be interested to give a little, be it in kind or in cash. Pls. let our secretary know ( Rona 01482 320227 ). we would be giving out more details of how we are going to put this plan into action. Thank you in advance!

" THE COWARD "

The coward never on himself relies, But to an equal for assistance flies.
Cowards are cruel, but the brave Love mercy, and delight to save
The coward only threatens when he is safe.
"Men lie, who lack courage to tell truth–the cowards!"
"A coward boasting of his courage may deceive strangers, but he is a laughing-stock to those who know him.
"When all the blandishments of life are gone, The coward sneaks to death, the brave live on.So cowards fight when they can fly no further; So doves do peck the falcon's piercing talons; So desperate thieves, all hopeless of their lives, Breathe out invectives 'gainst the officers."
"A coward, a most devout coward; religious in it."
The coward calls himself cautious, the miser thrifty. [Lat., Timidus se vocat cautum, parcum sordidus.]"
There are at least two kinds of cowards. One kind always lives with himself, afraid to face the world. The other kind lives with the world, afraid to face himself."
"A coward gets scared and quits. A hero gets scared, but still goes on."

I THANK YOU...BOW

Announcement

What: Thanksgiving Mass to be officiated by visiting Filipino Priest, FR. SERG MAGBANUA
Where: St. Wilfrid's Parish Church, Boulevard
When: 5:30PM Saturday, 19th September 2009
Info: There will be a "Despidida" party as well for Fr. William Masi at the Boulevard hall right after.
We may bring Foods/Drinks to share.
EVERYONE INVITED! Thank you.

tawa muna

Learn Chinese in 5 minutes

That's not right!
Sum Ting Wong

Are you harbouring a fugitive?
Hu Yu Hai Ding

See me ASAP ;
Kum Hia Nao

Stupid Man
Dum Fuk

Small Horse
Tai Ni Po Ni

Did you go to the beach?
Wai Yu So Tan

I bumped into a coffee table!
Ai Bang Mai Fu Kin Ni

I think you need a face lift!
Chin Tu Fat

It's very dark in here!
Wai So Dim

I thought you were on a diet!
Wai Yu Mun Ching

This is a tow away zone!
No Pah King

Our meeting is scheduled for next week!
Wai Yu Kum Nao

Staying out of sight
Lei Ying Lo

He's cleaning his automobile
Wa Shing Ka

Your body odor is offensive
Yu Stin Ki Pu

Great meal
Fa Kin Su Pa


laughter makes life a lot easier. Thanks grace!!!

CHANGES TO THE BLOG SITE

We, the Authors and Instigators of our HULL FILIPINO COMMUNITY Blog site are proud to introduce the changes we made recently to our site. The purpose of the much needed makeover is for the added security and comfort to all bloggers. We can still enjoy 24/7 responsible blogging/chatting after validation of blog membership.
True to its aim, HFC welcomes first time visitors, you may email hullfilcom@yahoo.co.uk, to request the site link with your valid email address (yahoo, google etc..), once inside click the follow button to process your membership.
For the 25 existing members and authors, kindly check your emails and follow the simple instruction to start blogging immediately.
Thank you and more power to the HFC blog site!

note:
The new system may require further enhancements and we will post them later if there's any.

HFC NEWSLETTER (2nd Edition)

What has happened: The Filipino Cultural show that was held last June 13 has been a success! The programme started with a welcome address from our president, Mrs. Eva Rodrigo, followed by showcase of dances, songs and poetry from our members. The fabulous kids and the fantastic adults displayed an array of talents from graceful dancing to melodious singing to heart warming poetry. The affair has been successful because of unending support of our members, old and new, and the used to be inactive members became very active. To all the participants, the young and the wise, the parents, the choreographers (Marlon, Princess, Carmela and Randy) and to everyone who in one way or another has contributed to the success of the event, thank you very much!
As requested by the chairman of Maharlika, the organizer of Yorkshire Barrio Fiesta, most of the acts from the very successful HFC Cultural Show, again displayed their graceful dancing talents at the Barrio Fiesta in Leeds. In addition to these, 3 of our cute little girls escorted by our little Mr. Pogi(s), were amongst the sagalas. Everyone enjoyed, and the thrill of riding in a double decked bus made the day out fantastic and memorable! The president was inundated with requests for another "excursion".

What's been happening: The officers are starting to prepare for the forthcoming sports festival which will be held on August 8-9 (Pls. book your off duty). Regular practice and try out are being held so we are inviting anybody interested to join in any games to please contact the game coordinator.
Regular try outs for basketball are held every Wednesday 8-9 pm at KC stadium.

Anybody interested in badminton pls. let Rona or Arnie know, at present the interested participants are practicing on their own time. If anyone who would like to be a part of the team and would like us to organize a group practice pls. let us know.

Practice dates for other games will be posted by the individual coordinator. Pls. let them know if your interested.

What will happen next: There will be 4 teams competing against each other in our sports festival: HULL, MANCHESTER, BRADFORD, AND WAKEFIELD. The events are basketball, volleyball, badminton, table tennis, chess and darts. These friendly competitions will be held at Hull KC stadium from 9 am until 5 pm for 2 days and an awarding ceremony will follow on the last day. We would like to invite anyone interested to be part of our Team, and also, we would like to inform everyone that there will be an opportunity for our entrepreneurs to sell food for merienda/kakanin on that day. Please speak to our event coordinator Mr. Anton Embalsado (tel.no. 226340) for the details. Anybody who would like to play for our team pls. get in touch with each game coordinator. Here are the lists of the coordinators:

1. Volleyball Isagani Isaac 213383

2. Basketball Gladys Calonia 322849/ Jojo Tapiz 853398

3. Dart William Kapangyarihan 321667

4. Table tennis Bernie Azur 787059

5. Badminton Rona Calanao 320227/ Arnie Fernandez 211530

6. Chess Leslie Jallorina 610776

For the parents to enjoy their games, the children will be kept occupied in their own fest. There will be face painting, parlour games and tumble time.

We are inviting sponsors for this event, so anyone who know someone who might be interested to be a sponsor, pls. speak to Mrs.Doriedelle Quillopo (813184).

We would like to take this opportunity to inform everyone that there will be an exhibition game of basketball between New Castle and our very own Hull City Junior basketball team!

The Hull heartthrobs!!! (Paulo, Marcel, Von, Augie, Ronaldo, Dahryl. Hilal, Lou, Jay, Carl and Kenneth). Our young athletes have been honing their skills for some time now and it is time to display their prowess and vigour to the public. To our young talents welcome and we will be there to support you all the way!!! Knock 'em dead boys!!

Dates for your diary: December 19 will be the date for our Christmas party. Please book your off duty. The place will be announced later.

PRACTICE/TRYOUT for BADMINTON

Where: Pavement at West Park (Walton Street)
left side just after the entrance

When: Sunday, 3:00 PM onwards, 26th July 2009

FIRST EVER (PINOY) CONCERT IN HULL!

Introducing ISBUK LIVE ! at The Octagon Centre.

This is an open invitation to everybody to come and watch "The Battle of the Bands" Champion, ISBUK performing live here in Hull for one night only.Watch their performance sample here, and see details of the rare event below.

(Click Ticket to enlarge)

For Tickets please contact: dwike at 01482-226906, Doki 01482-618130, Ronald 01482323927, Larry 01482-353766, Daubrey 01482-588189, Aga 01482-218937

No pain no gain, No guts no glory

They say the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence… with this in mind I was determined like many others to finish a degree that would be my passport to greener pastures- nursing.

I already had another degree to my name but this did not seem enough to make me realize my dreams and ambitions so that when I finally became a full pledged nurse I was filled with pride and anticipation. Ironically my first job overseas was not that of a nurse but just the same I was glad that eventually I joined the thousands of nurses who left my beloved country to seek a better future overseas.

So here I am… lucky to have been given the chance to work in the UK. Glad to have my family settled and grateful that my children have been given that opportunity for a brighter future. Not quite well stable financially but who cares what is important is that I am a nurse and I have a job…at least the bills are paid for. It was not an easy road but then they say no guts no glory.

Who said being a nurse was easy though…have you ever ask yourself what really matters most…dedication and commitment or financial gain? I often hear these statements from my colleagues at work and I do sometimes say them myself.
Cliché no.1 “I’ve had enough”. Cliché no.2. I wish I could win the lottery (no chance if like me you do not want to waste at least £ 3.50 a week for a lottery ticket on a Wednesday, Friday and Saturday…not to mention those scratch cards. Theory says that the probability of your winning the lottery is 1 in 40 million as compared to 1 in 2 million of dying in an air crash. Don’t let me despair you though, go ahead and bet on the lottery you might be that 1 in 40 million.)

So why the use of these cliché … well that just shows that many of us are feeling the frustrations of working so hard and feel that sometimes we are not reaping the rewards and the benefits which we think we deserve…or the appreciation from the people we care for and serve- our patients, our colleagues our managers, or the establishments we work for. Have you sometimes felt that you are stuck in a dead end job…that our duty to care for our patients has now turned into a routine…gone are the days when we could sit down and hold our patients hand and simply reassure them with a gentle touch. Now we sometimes hardly stop to talk to our patients unless we have to…why because there is a lot more to be done,documents to complete…nursing on the ward (at least on mine)has now turned into a catching up game…they say nursing is supposed to be 24 hour care and yet when things are not done on your shift, the incoming shift are not exactly that impressed either. And yet worst is still to come as the staffing levels decreases but the work load remains the same, nurses leave because they no longer feel that it is safe working on the ward. Morale is low because staff do not get appreciated for a job well done ( it is assumed and expected irregardless of the circumstances) but gets reprimanded for fluid balances not properly filled in… the health system now appears to be more of a legal and political ground- they say there are targets to be met, quality monitoring programmes to pass…it is a no win case-you have to abide by the system even if you sometimes feel otherwise, because you need the job...forget about the sentiments of Florence Nightingale … we nurses sometimes feel that we are being pushed to the limits…you are not allowed to moan because it was your choice in the first place to be in this profession…so unless you do not mind compromising your patients safety or if you have a hefty bank account stashed elsewhere, we are here to stay out of dedication and commitment more than that of any financial gain.


I suppose any job has its highs and lows,all jobs have their tedious moments, it is how we deal with it that matters. So how do I psyche myself up to carry on in times of frustrations at work ? ... the rule of equivalent exchange ... no pain no gain. I think of the good things and try to ignore the bad …although it is easier said than done. I remind myself of the reason why I came to work overseas-greener pastures… I simply try to convince myself that there are millions out there who would love to be in my shoe and that I am lucky to have a job and a steady source of income to feed my family and spend on the little luxuries in life…I and better still I convince myself that nursing can be very rewarding especially if you see a smile from your demented patient who appears to recognize you as someone she could trust….or a sincere thank you from a patient whom you have nursed to recovery…these are feelings that makes you want to carry on being a nurse. Lastly what better way than to just blog it out thanks to this site… you can do it too… Not everyone will sympathize with your whinges but somehow maybe there is someone out there who could relate to your experience and feel that he or she is not alone.

Letter from Heaven

To my dearest family some things I'd like to say
But first of all to let you know that I arrived today,
I'm writing this from Heaven. Here I shall dwell with God above
Here, there's no more tears of sadness. Here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight
Remember that I am with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through
God picked me up and hugged me and He said "I welcome you,
It's good to have you back again,
you were missed while you were gone,
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly, you are part of my plan
There's so much that we have to do to help our mortal man."
God gave me a fist of things that he wished for me to do
And foremost on the list was to watch and care for you
And when you lie in bed at night, the days chores put to flight
God and I are closest to you . . in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth and all those loving years
Because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears
But do not be afraid to cry, it does relieve the pain
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
1 wish that I could tell you all that God has planned
If I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand
But one thing is for certain though my life on earth is o'er
I'm closer to you now than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb
But together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
When you're walking down the street and you've got me on your mind
I'm walking in your footsteps, only half a step behind
And when it's time for you to go . . from that body to be free
Remember you're not going . . you're just coming here to me.


Copyright - Ruth Ann Mahaffey

june 13- a night to look forward to

My admiration and congratulations goes to the participants of the HFC Independence day celebration. Whilst it would be another 4 days before we witness this event I would like to think that even now I could see it to be a huge success, not only because of the effort put into its preparation by the officers of the HFC and the boundless energy of the choreographers but mostly because of the active participation of our children. I must admit it is not an easy task getting people to get involve, let alone sing and dance. I once organized a similar event 2 years ago and I know how much hard work it entails, and to think that this time we have the little children doing a choreographed dance…not the usual hip hop disco that you see on your TV screens but dances that are alien to our children …yes our small children as young as 2-3 years old are learning the traditional folk dances which we adults probably will find it as difficult to learn. I am not an active participant in this event but my son is and I know like all the parents who tirelessly bring their children to these scheduled practices, we all take great pride to see our children perform and simply enjoy themselves on this occasion.

I must admit when I gathered how many performances the organizers are trying to create for this celebration, I found it to be a bit ambitious considering the time constraint and the manpower involve. It was only about two weeks ago when the organizers were in dire need of dancers, but now all that seems to have been resolved. There are a few HFC members who did not use to actively partake of community activities and yet now take centre stage and are out there to show us their talents. It is very pleasing to know that the community spirit lives on.

I am so looking forward to this day. No doubt, I could see that with the sacrifices the participants and the organizers are putting into the preparation of this event, we the audiences are in for a good show. Let us show support to the HFC community, if we could not actively participate in any of the presentations then at least let us be there to watch our children, families and friends as they awe us with their performances.

Let the true Filipino Spirit prevail…once in a while we need to be reminded of our roots and inculcate in the minds of our children that we will always be Filipinos at heart.

Advisory: Mass for Kuya Todd

When : 1:00 pm, 16th June 2009
At : Catholic Parish of Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Peter Chanel,
119 Cottingham Road
Hull HU5 2DH

Please wear something white.

We may view the body for the last time on Thursday (11th) and Friday (12th), of June from 10am to 4pm at Boothferry Cooperative Funeral Care, 228 Boothferry Road.

and then it is scheduled to be cremated at Chanterlands avenue crematorium right after the necrological services on Tuesday, 16th June.

kindly contact Ate Pat on tel. 01482-589514 or mobile 07824632058 for any other enquiries or if you want to schedule group viewing this weekend, (13th and 14th). Thank you and God Bless.

Poll Result: Hull Filipino Sportsfest 2009

We now have the result of the month long daily poll, to ask whether people are in favor of holding the Annual Sportsfest this year and would it be an Inter or Intra Community affair.

Out of 47 votes, only 1 is not in favor of the event to happen this year.

29 of them want it to be Inter-Community and 14 want it to happen exclusively for Hull residents.

So there you go, definitely we will be holding a Sporsfest sometime in August this year.

Announcement TO ALL PARTICIPANTS!

What: DANCE PRACTICE
When: friday, June 12, 2009 5pm onwards
Where: Boulevard hall (Confirmed)

Announcement TO All CONCERNED!

What: Dance Practice
When: Tuesday, June 9, 2009 5pm onwards
Where: Boulevard hall (Confirmed)

Announcement TO ALL CONCERNED

What: Dance Practice
When: Monday, June 8, 2009 5pm onwards
Where: Rawling Center

Announcement for EVERYBODY!

What: Dance Practice
When: Saturday, June 6, 2009 5pm onwards
Where: Boulevard hall (Tentative)

for enqueries please call Rona, tel. 01482320227

Anouncement to all Players - Volleyball at Gemtec

What: Volleyball Practice
When: June 10, 2009
Wednesday 6pm-7pm(confirmed)
Where: Gemtec Arena
Hull

To all interested players please call/text
Bernie 07859076170
Leslie 07748610893

Filipino seeks seat in EU parliament

Aims to be voice of marginalized, migrants

MANILA, Philippines—Gene Alcantara, who holds dual Filipino and British citizenship, is running as independent candidate for a seat in the European Union Parliament when it holds its elections on June 4.

In an exchange of e-mails, the Laguna-born Filipino said his decision to raise his level of political participation is anchored on the belief that "I will have more impact on people's lives this way."

Alcantara, who has been living in the United Kingdom for the past 22 years, said he seeks to represent not only Filipinos but "other migrants and marginalized Londoners (who) do not have a voice in politics."

Specifically, he is seeking to represent all of London, some parts of Middlesex, Essex, Surrey, and Kent.

Alcantara said he is relying on the estimated 250,000 Filipinos who have acquired British or European citizenships in these areas to vote for him.

"That number would hopefully be sufficient to secure a seat if we could get them and their relatives, friends and colleagues to support me in the elections," he said.

Clean and honest politics, fairness for every Londoner, safety for children, decent dental and health care, and affordable education are among the issues he espouses.

source: Inquirer.net

INUMAN TAYO BASTA AKO ISANG BASO LANG

Announcement: To all Interested Adults

What: Dance Practice
When: Sunday, 10:30am May 24, 2009
Where: Boulevard hall (beside the church)
Dances: Pandanggo sa ilaw, kariñosa, singkil, swing

interested parties may contact the secretary, Mrs. Rona Calanao
We would like to encourage everybody to please participate in our community activities, it is a way of showing our cooperative spirit. Thank you.

Announcement: To all Players - BASKETBALL at GEMTEC.!

What : Basketball Practice
When : 8:00 - 9:00pm, Wednesday May 27, 2009
Where : Gemtec Arena, KC stadium (CONFIRMED)

Please call in 01482-226906 or txt mob.07977618449 to join

FOR SALE

VERY AFFORDABLE PRICE...........

TEST DRIVE ALLOWED FOR 24 HOURS

CONTACT THE ADMIN

Good Leadership skills

To all aspiring would-be leaders, this is for you.

Developing leadership skills can be easy if you concentrate on being a good leader to yourself first. This means being true to who you are and guiding yourself well throughout life. Those with good leadership skills aren't perfect and still make mistakes like everyone else. The difference is that good leaders learn from their mistakes and stay committed to the goals they set.

True leaders also understand how to apologize when they make a mistake and genuinely want others to succeed. You should have experience in the field you want to guide others in and think about what it felt like to be in their shoes as a learner. Remembering your own experiences in a certain subject can help you develop leadership skills that can inspire others. However, good leaders don't assume that everyone is like them. True leaders are excellent listeners.

To put it simply, good leadership skills stem from being both self-aware and socially aware. Good leaders know themselves, while striving to learn about others through listening, observation and a compassionate, open attitude. The openness aspect of leadership means that you are open and honest with others and yourself. It also means that you're accessible to others for guidance and advice when they want it. True leaders tend to teach rather than preach.

Leadership through example means that you conduct yourself the way you expect those you're leading to do. For example, if you expect others to be on time, you yourself must be prompt. If your team is expected to conduct presentations in a certain manner, do your presentations that way yourself. True leaders are a part of the team they lead. Leadership skills should never be based on an attitude of superiority or arrogance and this type of attitude does little to motivate others.

"Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things". -Peter Drucker

ANNOUNCEMENT: TO ALL INTERESTED ADULTS

What: Dance Practice
When: Friday 1:00-4:00 pm, May 15, 2009
Where: Maurice Rawling Center (Confirmed)
Dances: Pandanggo sa Ilaw, Kariñosa, Singkil, Swing

Childrens' dances to be announced shortly.

from: The Secretary

Blog Announcement : Formal Reminder

After several reminders yesterday, we still deemed some people, not necessarily members, were still posting with malicious intents to humiliate people, though not particularly or properly identified. There's nothing wrong with exercising the freedom to fairly criticize people but to malign and publicly defame somebody even if indirect, for us is still illegal.

The aim of the blog is to served as a "fair playing field for all" but we will not allow it to be used as a means to destroy other people or entity. Let us not fall to the same trap and suffer the same fate as KA SITO. Nag-iisa lang sya.

We fumigated the message center deliberately to preserve the Blog's integrity and to ensure protection to the members as well. Perhaps this is the first and the last time we will perform this course of action.

We all know that we cannot identify those participating in the discussions, but as the administrators, we have a way of knowing if people are using several aliases with only one protocol. It's not illegal but if they will use it to confuse or bring chaos to the site, we will apprehend them and maybe ban them indefinitely from the site.

In behalf of the HFC blog site, we apologize for the inconveniences and maybe to avoid same situation in the future why not read the verse of the day at the top before indulging in the Message center.

Let's not hate overcome reason.

HFC-writer

ADMIN

MY REACTION TO THE HFC NEWSLETTER

Allow me to share my thoughts and opinions regarding the first edition of the much awaited HFC newsletter. Noticeable is the unique and straightforward presentation; one could easily tell that a new and fresh crop of people are behind the instigation of the first ever Newsletter for the year, it's totally different from the more formal layout of the same paper last year (I am a fan of the former editor).

Admittedly, my interest was easily drawn to read the last and the most important part of the print which says President's corner, for like anybody else, I was "dying" to know what our beloved Madam has to say about the Ka Sito issue.

Again this is my view, subject to my personal knowledge and limited to my understanding of the issue and anything is debatable here.

To summarize the President's statement in four points:

• To promote PEACE and UNITY
  
• MR. JOSEL GOMEZ is not KA SITO
  
• Invitation for KA SITO to a dialogue
  
• Invitation for the HFC members to the Family Day and Cultural Night
  

I might have missed some other points but they are less relevant, for consideration purposes.

TO PROMOTE PEACE and UNITY

• Our President's effort to unite us and preserve the good relationship amongst us Filipinos in Hull and neighboring places is quite exceptional . We welcomed new members into our community and as a result the HFC population increased and up to now, is still growing.
  
• A job well done for our first Lady President.
  

MR. JOSEL GOMEZ is not KA SITO

• Maybe because of the mere resemblance to the name "SITO", his name crop up instantly to peoples mind and the fact that he has been very vocal against joining our organization mainly because of his differences with the previous administration, whatever it is, it's not our business to know.
  
• To exactly repost this statements, "It would be appreciated if my good name won't be affiliated to any doing of Hull Filipino Community", and "I could still remember that it was HFC group that destroyed my good name…" with the complimentary close and signature line:
  

Respectfully yours,

Josel Gomez

Founder of The Hull Filipino Community

He sent this to people by email on 28^th November 2008 at 7:53 in the morning. For people who think, and by common sense, this could be an incriminating circumstance to conclude that he is the same person hiding behind KA SITO barely four months later.

• As our President declared, "after careful analysis and serious dialogue, MR. JOSEL GOMEZ is not KA SITO". I personally believed that her statement is true on the technical aspect that Mr. Gomez could not have the capability to fabricate a letter of such magnitude base on the careful examination of his previous letters/emails to the HFC community.
  
• BUT, In my opinion, the declaration doesn't make him off the hook nor clear him as nothing to do with the KA SITO affair because the President only came as far as declaring MR. GOMEZ as not KA SITO, her careful analysis and sincere dialogue, did not rule him out as innocent and not guilty, she did not report if MR GOMEZ is holding/not holding any information or knowledge about KA SITO, if he knew KA SITO or if he worked with KA SITO.
  
• The real KA SITO is still out there, and to get to him we might need the help of MR. GOMEZ himself if he is willing and if he holds anything that could help identify KA SITO. MR GOMEZ could be the hero that we've been praying for to solve this impasse.
  

INVITATION for KA SITO to a DIALOGUE

To KA SITO, this is a kind and just gesture made by the President. It will give you the chance to show your side of the coin, you could be a gifted and maybe a principled man in your own right who happens to be on the opposite end of the road. We are all Filipinos so why not settle these things the Filipino way, "Areglo" na lang para matapos na. We will even owe it to you if you come out, state your case and spill the beans. Spare us the expense of hiring a solicitor and court order just to compel KC communications to reveal your real identity and get you to pay back all these expenses plus damages later on, for maligning and trying to destroy the entity which is the Hull Filipino Community.

Time is not on your side KA SITO, so please come out and have a dialogue with the President. You may opt to keep it in private, and maybe people will respect that. Who knows, you and your family could be celebrating with us in the forthcoming Family Day and Cultural Night and most importantly, we will welcome you to our fold because after all we are all Filipinos and with your gift, together we can do great things for the community in building a better future.

INVITATION for the HFC members to the FAMILY DAY and CULTURAL NIGHT

"There will be a Family Day and Cultural Night on the 13^th of June. The value of events like this, for those taking part, cannot be underestimated. They provide important social outlet for people like us, living stressful lives. They combat social isolation, encourage acquaintance, friendship and unification. I am inviting everyone to come, and have fun! MABUHAY TAYONG LAHAT! - Mrs. Evangeline "Ate Eva" C. Rodrigo, President HFC".

As part of our President's unwavering effort to bring unity and peace to our community, holding this event, would draw us Filipinos closer together and remind us that together we can make our stay in Hull worthwhile and worth living even if we are intellectuals with differing views and of diverse backgrounds, we can come together to celebrate as one family under this initiative.

Cheers to the President and long live Hull Filipino Community.

"Wise men store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin".- Proverbs 10:14

CLARIFICATION ABOUT THE NEWSLETTER

by Dr. Ferdinand Dela Cruz

I am responding to the newsletter below. Our dear president has quoted:

"I am very much aware of the Ka Sito issue; also, I’m aware most of us identified Mr. Josel Gomez as Ka Sito. After careful analysis, and sincere dialogue, I would like to tell everyone, Josel is not Ka Sito. This conclusion was agreed by the former President Ferdinand dela Cruz, and some of our technically (computer) intellectual kababayans. Hence, his application for membership was accepted according to the HFC constitution. All, if not most of the accusations remain as they are unless proven.

I can confirm that the president has discussed this matter to me. According to her, she asked Josel if he is Ka Sito but then he strongly denied. My response was: there may be no direct evidence indicating Josel as Ka Sito but I have not agreed on any conclusion on this matter. I am leaving it to the administration and to the proper authority if the need may arise.

As to his application, my opinion is: For as long as a Filipino in Hull would follow the proper way of filling in the proper form, paying the fees and dues, and would comply with our constitution and bylaws especially Article II sections 1 and 3, then there would be no reason to deny the application. Josel's application though, is a bit different from a normal application. It has to be discussed by the present officers and weigh the pro's and con's of him being a member. Therefore it is upto the present administration to decide on this matter.

ANNOUNCEMENT: TO ALL HFC MEMBERS.

What: OPEN FORUM/DISCUSSION

When: Sunday 1:00pm May 10, 2009

Where: QUAKER MEETING HOUSE(CONFIRMED)

Bean street (near Rawling Center)

Agenda: All issues regarding the HFC.

from: The Office of the President

My Personal Recollection of TODD

My Personal Recollection of Todd

I was introduced to Todd a little over 5 years ago at a photo shop at Hessle Road. He was this person who gives you this first impression of being very confident yet would come across as kind of boastful and arrogant. I remember very well his words of advice to me and a friend who were then newcomers in Hull…”mag-ingat kayo sa pagpili ng mga kaibigan niyo”. That was quite a strong advice from someone you have met for the first time, but he must have meant well, so we just nodded in agreement. Then he went on to say that he was the first Filipino nurse who came to this side of the country and the first ever to have acquired a mortgage. These achievements were something to be proud of in those days when everyone of us were just beginning to established ourselves financially and socially in Hull.
I do not know Todd that much to be able to give a clear testimony of the life he had but I have heard a lot about him, like we all do. Todd had always been a very private person. He exists in his own private world and goes about his business without any bother to anyone. On the very few occasions that I had a matter of fact conversations with him are those times wherein he brought patients to our ward from A&E and he never ceases to amuse me and we always end up having a good laugh. Once he came to our ward to hand over a patient to the nurse in charge who happened to be in a bad mood and was making our shift unbearable. It was such a relief to see Todd then, for here is someone I could whinge to and Todd simply said “ hayaan mo akong bahala””. The nurse in charge heard us speaking in our language and was not at all impressed. About ten minutes after Todd left, our nurse in charge had a phone call from the A&E charge nurse who told her off leaving her speechless and near to tears. Whatever Todd said to his A&E charge nurse, I will never know but I was glad. One should know better than to mess with Todd for he has his way of getting back at you.


Though we often times hear negative remarks said about Todd, I never really had any problems with him. I was having my car MOT’d on the day he was going to have his oath taking and because I did not have anywhere to go whilst waiting, I went with another friend to witnessed Todd take his oath of Allegiance to the Queen. How could I forget that day when he showed up in full “regalia” – very impressive, actually he was wearing this denim suit with the UK flag printed on his jacket and the US flag printed on his trousers ( or was it the other way around) and they were not just small prints, they were boldly printed right across his attire. Todd had style and he sure knows how to make a grand entrance …not very many people could get away with that. He treated us to lunch after. He must have felt so proud then because, for yet again he was the first to acquire a British passport amongst the original Filipino nurses in Hull.

I have not seen a lot of him since then apart from few occasions on the ward but I still hear about him mostly things like he was in a fight because he was drunk or he was assaulted. It was sad to hear these stories because Todd to me is a good person. I think that he was one if not the most misinterpreted person amongst us. He projected this personality that made us want to think twice before we want to be associated with this guy. He is the sort of person who seems to invite trouble without any intentions, one who happens to be in the right place at the wrong time. He was always getting into some kind of argument when he over indulges in his favourite drink…or at least that is what we think and hear. But has anyone of us really stop to think that we probably did not give him the chance to show us who the real Todd is, because for many of us who are quick to judge, he was this idiosyncratic character who seem to always be associated with some kind of trouble and because Todd is someone who prefers to keep to himself ,we tend to deduce our own characterizations of the person based on what we see or hear.
I am saddened by this because for me, I feel that although he had that ready smile on his face each time, deep inside him must be a lonely soul longing to belong and be understood. A person who simply wants to be accepted for what he is and not be misjudged by his actions. A person who has so much to give but was not given the opportunity to share. A person who is simply trying to be himself

I last saw Todd on Friday midnight when I went to visit him in ICU after I was told by the Outreach Nurse that she does not think he will make it. I was talking to Todd knowing that he could hear me, telling him to get better and give life another chance. The ICU nurse looked up as if saying there was no hope (but we Filipinos do not give up hope easily, we are survivors and until he breathes his last there will always be hope). One thing however that strikes me that night was how calm and serene Todd’s face was and whether it was the swelling of his face that did it, I do not know but I would like to believe that Todd had finally found peace at last. Todd you will be greatly missed but will be fondly remembered by those whose life you have touched.

Please don’t get me wrong but once again Todd has achieved being first in everything – but he has left a valuable lesson in us all and that is to value life and the people we love.

It was very heart-warming to see the Filipinos gathering together, filling up the ICU visitor’s room to see Todd. It makes me feel that whatever arguments, misconceptions, misunderstandings that happen amongst the Filipinos, we remain united to support our kababayan in times of need. Mabuhay tayong lahat. Let us all be there when he is finally laid to rest.

Addendum:
How well do you know Todd ?…maybe not a lot, as we all know he was such a private person…but I if one tries to read between the lines or look beyond what the eyes could see, you will be surprise at what you could discover.
I first went to the novena prayer meeting for Todd on Wednesday. As we were waiting for people to arrive, I was chatting with Todd’s sister, Pat who mentioned that Todd always kept a diary for years. I did not mean to pry on Todd’s personal affairs but I was so amazed to hear that Todd of all people would keep a diary. Anyway let us just say that my curiosity took the better of me and I ask Pat if I could have a look at them to which Pat kindly agreed. I quickly scanned thru the pages and found that Todd’s handwriting was such that you would immediately think that he is so artistically inclined. It was so neat and precise giving you the impression that there is more to this guy than meets the eye. What impressed me most is that it was a detailed description of his day to day activities from paying his bills to meeting his mates to cleaning his house. He was such an organized person which puts me to shame really because I am not even half as organized as he is. But what really caught my attention was that out of the very few pages that I have quickly glanced at, I came across several entries which states that he had just gone to church and on one entry it says he just said his novena prayers. I was greatly touched, truly humbled and felt really ashamed of myself that once I too was guilty of misjudging this person, once I too have stereotyped his character only to find out that he had more depth that many of us. Todd was a very spiritual person and it warms my heart to think that if ever he appeared to have had a lonely existence on earth, he probably is now enjoying the happy rewards of heaven. That just proves to show that we should never judge a book by its cover or that appearances could be deceiving…for the true beauty of a person lies within his soul. Thanks to Todd, sometimes experiences like this makes us stop to recollect and appreciate the more meaningful values in life.

I wrote this article on the day that I heard Todd passed away. It was my way of expressing the emotions I felt for a lost friend and it was such an honour for me to share this to Todd’s family and friends. I do not know Todd personally like I said and how I came to write this about him ,I will never know…but sometimes I would like to believe that maybe it was him using me as an instrument to get his message through.

Philippine Embassy Advisory on the Swine Flu

EMBASSY OF THE PHILPPINES
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM


IMPORTANT – ADVISORY ON THE SWINE FLU OUTBREAK


The Philippine Embassy in London reminds all Filipino nationals in the United Kingdom and Ireland to take the following precautionary measures in the wake of the increasing number of confirmed swine flu cases in different parts of the world:
1. Avoid large crowds and congested areas.
2. Wash hands regularly particularly after contact with other people through hand shakes and similar human contact.
3. Contact your General Practitioner (GP) by phone on the type of medicine to have on hand in case you experience flu-like symptoms.
4. Avoid going to hospitals and clinics unless there is a medical emergency.
5. If you have arrived from a recent trip from an affected area, monitor your health condition closely for at least seven (7) days. If during this period you develop a feverish illness accompanied by one or more of a cough, sore throat, headache or muscle aches, remain at home and contact your GP by phone or seek advice from NHS Direct (0845 4647).
6. Note that both the Philippine and UK governments have advised their nationals to avoid non-essential travel to Mexico
7. Continue to monitor updates on the swine flu outbreak as these are released to the public via newspapers, televIsion, radio and the internet.
Filipino nationals who have concerns about the outbreak of Swine Flu may call the Philippine Embassy hotline at 07802790695. END

ANG NAKARAAN

KA-tuwaan lang po...Bato-bato sa langit tamaan wag magalit .

Ka-katawa at Ka-kasiya ang mga nangyayari sa mga pinoy sa Hull ngayon. Matunog pa rin na usap-usapan si Ka-Sito. Dahil sa kanya naka-ka-pagsulat tayo na sana ika-katuwa ng mga maka-ka-basa. (Tagalugin natin- para mas masaya

Paano nga ba nag-umpisa ang lahat...Gunitain natin ang nakaraan.

Higit pitong taon na ang nakalipas noong may mga Pilipino nurses na na-recruit ng HeyNHS trust para magtrabaho sa Hull. Sila ang mga tinatawag na first batch. Masaya sila noon, nagkakaisa, nagtutulung-tulungan, marami ang magkakasama sa bahay nagsasalo-salo sa kainan. Pare-pareho silang na-ho-homesick at may mga naiwanang mga asawa, boyfriend, mga anak sa Pinas. Pero dahil lahat gustong kumita at makaahon sa buhay sige at nagtitiis na malayo sa pamilya. Sige sa trabaho, sige na ka-ba-bank. Okey lang di ba, kaya nga tayo nasa UK para kumita. Maka-raan ng ilang buwan sumunod ang second batch tapos sumunod naman ang mga third batch pagkatapos ng higit isa o dalawang taon. May mga napadpad din sa Hull na galing sa ibang lugar sa UK.Pagkaraan ng panahon, may mga konti na rin tayong naitabi, isa-isa tayong gumawa ng paraan para makuha dito ang ating mga pamilya. O di ba ang saya, wala ng hihigit pa na kasiyahan kundi makasama natin ang mga mahal natin sa buhay. Dahil nandiyan na mga asawa at mga anak, di na puwedeng magsiksikan sa flat. Kailangan natin magkaroon ng mas malaking tirahan kaya sumunod naman isa-isang nagsipag-mortgage. Di mo akalain na magkakabahay ka sa UK… kaya naman ipinagmamalaki ka ni nanay at tatay.

Noong una pangarap natin makapag trabaho lang sa ibang bansa,pinagdadasal at pinag-nonobena pa nga tayo ng mga nanay natin sa Baclaran di ba, pero ngayon, eto tayo higit pa sa mga ina-asam-asam natin ang nakamtan natin. Dati rati ka-dilakad tayong pumunta ng Asda at carboot kahit hirap sa dami ng bitbit, naka-bisikleta papunta ng bayan at sikat si Mr Moore noong araw. Ngayon naman mula d gardens papunta ng d mews naka-mercedes pa, o wala kang masabi… okay lang mga katas yan ng ating mga pinaghirapan, lasapin natin.
Dati-rati tuwing Linggo nagkakasalubong ang maraming pinoy sa Car boot ngayon ordinaryo na lang ang pumunta ng debenhams at House of Frazier.Tuwing Linggo may bagong damit , normal lang ang mag-shopping, pinaghihirapan mo naman sa katratrabaho kaya ok lang. Nakakatuwa ano, pero ang sayang gunitain. Mga second hand o bigay naTV sa atin ng mga kaibigan at kasamahan sa trabaho, napalitan na ng mga nagsisipaglakihang plasma screen. Asenso na nga ang mga pinoy sa Hull. Sumunod naman, pangarap natin mapapunta mga magulang natin sa England, nakamtan din natin… Gusto mong pumunta ng Europa, madali lang, book ka lang ng flight sa internet, aba’y sige lipad na. Mag-week-end ka sa Paris o Amsterdam, afford mo iyan kaibigan. O di ba ang suwerte talaga natin. Ano pa kaya ang mahihiling natin. Magpasalamat tayo mga kapatid.

Pero bakit kaya di pa rin tayo masiyahan. Di pa rin tayo makuntento. Andun pa rin iyon Pilipino mentality na sa halip sa ikatuwa natin ang pag-asenso ng ating mga kababayan na noong araw ay mga matalik natin mga kaibigan, eto tayo nagsisiraan. May ilan sa atin ang nag-aaway dahil sa mga walang kuwentong bagay… pati mga anak-anakan natin nadadamay. Sabi ni ganito, sabi ni ganyan…madali tayong maniwala, kaya anong kinahihinatnan, dina kita bati. Di lang ikaw pati mga kaibigan mo di ko na rin bati…, ay nakita ko si ganito kasama si ganyan, ay naku pareho na lang sila… kung sa English that’s a cliché… over-use na statement. Pero bakit… kung guilty ka tanungin mo sarili mo.

Naisipang magbuo ng komunidad para sa mga pinoy, na ang hangarin lang naman ay ang pag-isahin ang lahat sa pamamagitan ng mga salo-salo tuwing pasko, sports fest at iba pa, pero may mga ilan pa rin ang di natutuwa at sa halip ay bumubuo ng sarili nilang mga grupo. Ok lang naman ito di ba basta wag lang guluhin iyon iba.
Lahat naman tayo may karapatang gawin ang gusto natin pero wag lang may masasagasahan.

Nakakapanghinayang lang talagang isipin iyong mga pinagsamahan natin noong araw. Pero ganyan lang talaga ang buhay mga kaibigan, we have to move on ika nga…Magkakasama pa tayo dito sa hull ang marami pang taon kaya siguro maganda kung kalimutan natin lahat ang mga samaan natin ng mga loob, mga away natin noong araw gunitain na lang natin ang mga masasayang araw…at magpasalamat
tayo at nabigyan tayo ng pagkakataong makamit ang mga pangarap natin. AMEN

New TV fitness campaign urges 'switch off the TV'

PARA MA IBA NAMAN TAYO.... HEALTH NAMAN PAGUSAPAN NATIN

Today sees the launch of a new television advertising campaign that urges families to switch off TVs and computers and take part in more physical activity to help cut obesity.A survey to accompany the campaign reveals that almost three quarters (72%) of children are not getting 60 minutes of daily activity outside of school. The "How Are The Kids Survey", launched in January, is the biggest national survey of children's diet and activity levels, and received more than 260,000 responses from families across England.The survey found that 45% of families participating in the Department of Health’s Change4Life health and fitness initiative watched TV or played non-active video games before school, and only 22% did something active after their evening meal.Since the survey began, families have been sent tailor made support packs to help them make small but important changes to their daily routines. The Department of Health says the new advert responds to the need for families to get more physical activity into their daily routines - “to make sure that the energy in, is matched by the energy out”.The ad features the Change4Life family as they realise that “sitting around doing nothing” can lead to a build up of fat in their bodies that can cause diseases such as type two diabetes, cancer and heart disease.The family finds lots of fun ways to get their kids 60 active minutes - playing in the park, walking to school and playing with active computer games where kids need to jump and dance around.Dawn Primarolo, Minister for Public Health said: "Our survey shows that kids just aren't getting up and about as much as they should. If we're going to cut obesity levels our children need to be active for at least 60 minutes a day."Families up and down the country are getting tailor made action plans from Change4Life, and our new ads will give additional encouragement to help families feel the difference."By eating better and moving more, we can all live longer and healthier lives. With continued support from Change4Life this can be a reality for every family in England."

A message from the President.

I got a reply from our beloved President asking me to identify myself before she could address my concerns.

First of all, On a personal note, it is not my concern whatever it is surrounding the Ka Sito issue. but IT IS EVERYBODYS CONCERN it seems.
Secondly, you don't need to identify the person raising the issue because it has no relevance to the solvency of the problem. meaning, I am not the CULPRIT here, hello.? This is the same question every single breathing member is asking, in parties, in church, in carboot markets, name the place, KA SITO is so popular.
Thirdly, as our President it is your mandate to inform your people. We don't have to ask you in the first place because it is part of your sworn duties, correct me if I am wrong.
and Lastly, this is NOT A QUESTION of INTEGRITY but more a question of ACTION.

We love you and we are behind you but that doesn't mean we are not allowed to ask, just like a child asking her mom why until now she hasn't bought that red shoes. I think it's only fair to ask.

For comments: use the link below. somebody tell me if I am wrong or share anything please.

The KA SITO aftershock

Until now we are still wondering whatever happened to Ka Sito and friends. Have they finally come to their senses following the barrage of replies from concerned members in relation to their dim-witted innuendos? Have they finally given up and opted to accept the echoing reality that their attempt to destabilize and destroy the community had caused them quite the contrary? This is good news if indeed is the case.

NOW, However, we would like to raise the question to our beloved, duly elected Hull Filipino Community President and her entire leadership, are you just letting the issue die down unresolved? Is it a thing of the past to you? What were the steps you and your entire leadership took in addressing the KA SITO issue? Do you need more time? Did you conduct your own investigation as to formally identify those people responsible? How are you going to deal with them once identified? Are you going to impose sanctions, like ban them indefinitely from becoming members of the community (if ever they will have the nerve to join in the absence of delicadeza) because of the gravity of their offense? Or in the spirit of goodwill, forgive them totally and encourage them back to the fold? Or at least let them issue an overdue apology addressed to the entire constituency for the troubles they caused? And how are the ADVISERS taking this issue, have they anything to say? Are they ever being taken seriously by your leadership? We ought to know. Please REPORT to the PEOPLE! Because you all owe it to us members, we put our trust in you. Has anybody in you lost interest in representing us now that you discerned the true "weight" of becoming a leader? It couldn't be badder than this but if you do, please inform the constituency and we will try to help or fill the void with other competent people, if need be. This is a challenge we believe you can surpass if you will take actions and put up with your convictions. Otherwise again this will somewhat cause a stir and before we knew it, we are again embroiled in another dilemma which only mean more chaos and further division amongst us and worst, Exodus of active members because of lost of confidence to the leadership. A matter of PRUDENCE, Is what we need I guess.

Our plea is for you to take concrete actions according to your pronouncement to resolve the issue and be accountable to the people, maybe by way of a newsletter or a post to the HFC Blog site whichever way convenient to your liking, to once and for all put a CLOSURE to the KA Sito issue because until now it's still an open book (like a nagging toothache).

We are praying for our leaders to be fair and firm.

GOD BLESS.

Respectfully yours,

Concerned HFC member

"The time is always right to do what is right." – Martin Luther King Jr.

Who granted the permission to set up the blog site?

Way way back we have this hullfilcom.tk website, our first attempt to carry the community online but most of the members were just not that keen or maybe it was the lack of information dissemination that we did not meet the required traffic for the site to remain online, so the first HFC website vanished.

The turn of the new administration however paved the way for another shot at making our community online, with the permission from the newly elected president and its officers and support from members as well, we agreed to establish this site though temporary, we hope each and every member will try to cooperate this time just to keep it afloat.