Free Francisca Linconao:  Resistimos!
Levy Abad 

source: midiacoletiva.org

Seemingly, small events such as a forum of a hundred people may be perceived insignificant by the eye of the unconscientisized, but to anybody who understands the process of building a movement, it is a small step that can lead to change.  A month ago, I have no knowledge whatsoever about Francisca Linconao until I was invited by Pablo Herrera and Simon Baer to a meeting to discuss about indigenous struggles here in Canada and around the world.  It was suggested that we talk about Francisca Linconao.

I learned from this meeting that Francisca Linconao is an indigenous spiritual leader from the Mapuche tribe (the largest indigenous group in Chile), who was imprisoned for resisting “Neoliberalism’s encroachment on ancestral lands through the construction of dams, highways”, mining and what not.  If a national symbol like Francisca Linconao, a spiritual leader, can be jailed for standing up for the Mapuche, what about the fate of ordinary grassroot activists who tirelessly organize in the locality and are usually ignored by corporate media. Researching on YouTube, I found a lot of branding, surveillance and imprisonment done by the state security forces against Mapuche Indigenous activists. According to the article of Luis Campos Munoz, “there are now over 100 Mapuche political prisoners in Chilean jails, many of whom are members of the Arauco-Coordinator (CAM), a Mapuche organization made up of 160 indigenous communities.”  All this reminds me of the same struggles of the Lumads of Southern Philippines in resisting global mining corporations.

My curiosity about Francisca Linconao helped me understand that “the Mapuche have been credited as being the only native-American to have successfully resisted the conquest of the Spanish Empire, due in part to their guerilla like military strategy, high adaptability and largely decentralized political system. The Arauco War between  the Spanish colonial forces and the Mapuche begun in1550, almost a decade after the arrival of the Spaniards in 1841, and according to contemporary historians, lasted for more than a century, transitioning to a more subtle and intermittent conflict, which lasted up until 1883” (Tobias Sean -Fontecilla).

Any rudimentary understanding of Capitalism teaches that “it must expand or die.”  In the book lent to me by Henry Heller, “The Blood Of Extraction : Canadian Imperialism in Latin America “ by Todd Gordon and Jeffrey R. Webber, I was shocked  to learn about the policies  that guide the government  in its approach to Latin America and Chile, in particular. This book reminded me of the outcome of nationalist, progressive or worse, socialist government that tried to chart an independent course of development during the time of the CIA-backed coup d'état against Salvador Allende for instance, who was a Socialist. In the Philippines, Gina Lopez, the only progressive Environment Secretary ever appointment by President Rodrigo Duterte, was rejected by the comprador-dominated Commission of Appointments of Congress for her firm stand to protect the environment in areas where most of the indigenous communities are concentrated. She was replaced by a former General.

In the 70’s, neo-liberalism became a popular concept. It was for a time referred to as globalization in the Philippines where it means liberalization of policies or dismantling of protective measures. When people, led by movements adhering to socialist ideology, resists in a comprehensive way, the fangs of monopoly capital counter by eliminating the activists or prophets of the people, branding them as enemies of the state. After 9/11, no matter how legitimate the issues were, came the blanket terrorist tag. In Chile however, this reactionary measure happened earlier with “the counter terrorist act formulated in 1984 under the Pinochet military dictatorship, in order to more efficiently control and repress the opposition.”  In 2001, the Counter-Terrorist Act was subjected to reform in order to accommodate the “Mapuche problem” (Chile’s biased Counter- Terrorist laws by Tobias Sean Fontecilla).  This act is the reactionary basis of the Francisca Linconao's case where she was branded as engaging in terrorist activities. What happened to the so called restoration of Democracy in Chile?  Hence, in the face of the comprehensive attacks on people's rights, the communities must go on organizing consciousness-raising events as a form of resistance and not slumber. No matter how small the effort, the struggle must go on.

Meeting and discussing about indigenous issues is good, but in the long term worthless, if not matched by action. Any seed must touch the ground in order to grow. Karl Marx  in his “Eleven Theses on Feuerbach“ said, “Philosophers have  only interpreted the world, in various ways.  The point, however, is to change the world.” The simple idea must be concretized into a forum where significant discussions occur. We were fortunate to have the following as our guests in the forum, Radhika Desai, a professor and author of the book “Geopolitical Economy” who spoke on Neoliberalism and its impact on Indigenous rights, Wanda Luna Galdames who presented the Chilean Perspective and Peter Kulchysky, professor and author of the “Indigenous Rights are not Human Rights”, who discussed Mapuche Issues and Struggles.  Henry Heller, another author ( The Birth of Capitalism, A Twenty-First-Century Perspective ) , delivered a poem by Berttolt Brect. The speakers analyzed the issues from the global perspective down to the local level to crystallize understanding and pave the way for further solidarity with the Mapuche struggle.

Source: Vancouver Media Coop

Aside from the speeches, it was also interspersed with songs not as entertainment, but culturally to
reinforce the message and rouse the listeners to care and move to organize and resist. Reflecting on history of the social movements of the 60s to the 90s, cultural forms of education were quite effective in rousing the people to participate in movements for change. The participation of Johsa Manzanilla , a singer songwriter and human rights activist, together with Maree Rodriguez, who delivered “spoken word “ piece,  is important in raising awareness about the issue. Acts of solidarity by Zully Trujillo, who recited a poem and also Francisco Valenzuela, who expressed a message of solidarity, are equally commendable. The event ended up with the song “Imagine” by John Lennon performed by Jason Schreyer, who is also a great artist and performer.

 Admirable was the role of some members of the academe for their collective effort in making the Francisca Linconao event possible.  Thanks to grassroots organizers like Pablo Herrera and Simon Baer of Las Americas and Chilean Human Rights Council, a founding organization of Winnipeg Multicultural Human Rights Forum or WMHRF, Migrante Manitoba, Ana Vergara of the Winnipeg Chilean Association and its cultural branch “Grupo Quidel” and to Johanna Quintana of the Manitoba Chilean Association with its cultural arm “Grupo Rumel”, Ian Desales of Serve The People-Winnipeg and Ali Saaed of the Solidarity Committee for Ethiopian Political Prisoners (SOCEPP) and one of the founding members of WMHRF, for supporting the forum. Simon Baer also asserted that Pablo Herrera was instrumental in the organizing of the event. He networked with many of his Chilean comrades and friends and invited huge number of people to participate. Without his hard work and commitment, our event would not have been as successful. 

So, what's happening next?  The Francisca Linconao committee will continue on drumbeating the issue and write a series of articles revolving around the struggles of the Mapuche of Chile.  Anybody interested is welcome to join the forum for change. The hope is to slowly organize a movement for change with a clear perspective towards contributing in building a just society through solidarity, ever weary of movementism that serves as a tail and subtle instrument of imperialism and its monstrous neoliberal facade.

(Levy Abad is a freelance writer and also a singer songwriter/recording artist and a member of Migrante Canada-Mb chapter and also a founding member/ program coordinator of Winnipeg Multicultural Human Rights Forum, Levy has released four albums , Canadian Experience Vol. 1 (iTunes ), Never Give Up and Rhythms of Compassion CanEx 3.and for June 2017 ,"Tara ng Maglakbay". You can reach Levy Abad through , lev67.abad@yahoo.ca or on Facebook.).

After Touch: Winnipeg’s Top Band of the 90’s (Part 1 )

Levy Abad
The Diversity Times
 July 2017,Vol 6, No.7

The Prime band of the 90’s

After Touch Band 

After Touch was a premiere band of the Filipino community during the early 90s. It was formed after the band Exodus, whose members were Jojo Yso, Ronald Legaspi, JonJon Rigor Natoc, Frederick “Ricky” Natoc, Jun Magnaye and Willy Liwanag, disbanded.

In our phone conversation (March 18, 2017), Jojo Yso told me that it was in September 1993 that After Touch was formed. Jojo shared that a lot of musicians wanted to be members of After Touch and that they usually get paid during that time (between 1993 to 2012), a thousand per gig.

Where it all started?

Jojo Yso recalls that he was approached by the Alcera Family and Tita Zeny Gonzales of Richway Insurance, who were the producers of the show (Super Live Concert) if he has a band, and in particular, musicians who are adept at reading notes. The context during this time, according to Jojo, was Exodus just got disbanded as Jun Magnaye had to migrate to the U.S with his family. Jojo explained, “I started calling up prospects for the sessionistas. I first phoned JonJon Natoc (keys) to ask him if he reads notes and if he wants to play with me in a concert. Then I called Ricky Natoc (drums). I also tried to call Willy and asked him if he is familiar with reading music sheets to which he replied he doesn’t.  Back then I used to play with Frank Urbano at St. Edward’s Church where he was the bass player. I remember he would bring music sheets then when we play together.  So I called him and asked  if he is interested in playing with a group of Pinoy musicians and told him about the upcoming concert and Frank accepted my invitation” (J.Yso, May 22, 2017).

The first meeting of this band took place at the house of Austin Natoc, who I usually refer to as Kuya Boy, also a musician. Kuya Boy Natoc is the father of JonJon and Frederick ``Ricky`` Natoc who are the founding members of After Touch.  Basically, Jojo Yso is the initiator of After Touch.

Sessionistas

Jojo shared that After Touch was formed as a sessionist band in the September 1993 “SUPERLIVE concert” for Ogie Alcasid, Rachel Alejandro, Raymond Lauchengco and Lou Veloso. Jojo continued, “In 1994, a concert titled “Sama-sama Together,“ spearheaded by CKJS,  featured performances of our talents and fronted by Neil Cruz and a few other performers.  In 1995, the group performed at the World Beat concert. Another concert was organized by Vigcor Music School in 1997 where After Touch performed. From 1996 to 2001, After Touch performed at Famous organized concerts. The first solo concert of the band, “A Night with the After Touch,” was held on February 16, 2002.  Also in this same year, After Touch sessioned with Rey Valera, Vehnee Saturno and Nadine Roxas. Another fundraising event for the PCCM titled “Building Together” happened at the Centennial Concert Hall where After Touch sessioned for Ma-Anne Dionisio of Miss Saigon. In November 24, 2002, After Touch also performed as an opening act for Ariel Rivera’s Canadian Tour at the Pantages.  Come 2007, Jaya, Basil Valdez and Willie Nepomuceno did a concert and After Touch either performed as front act or as sessionist. They sessioned for Erik Santos (2009) and for Allan K., Pokyaw and Gisselle Sanchez (2010). Just looking at the line-up of famous artists from the Philippines that After Touch sessioned with, is really significant. Most of these famous artists travel with their managers who are meticulous on how they would sound on stage. I, myself, a low profile artist, is really ticked whenever the audio is mediocre, so how much more with these professionals. All this proves that After Touch was indeed Winnipeg’s premiere band from the 90`s up to early 2000’s.

After Touch Members

After Touch members were: Jojo Yso, the founder (acoustic and lead guitars), Frank Urbano (bass player band leader and arranger), Jun Urbano (second keys),  Jon Jon Natoc ( 1^st keys and who mixed for the band after Frank Urbano), Frederick “Ricky” Natoc (drums) Darius Dandan (saxophone player), Maui Zamora  (percussionist doing bongos ,conga etc ).

What with the Band’s name?

Curious about the band’s name, I asked Jojo Yso where the name After Touch came from. He said that it was a group’s choice. In simple terms, he explained that when one taps a keyboard then presses it, a sound is produced called the After Touch.  Another anecdote was relayed by Jon Jon Natoc that back in the 90`s, After Touch was usually referred to by Famous members as the “Side A Band of Winnipeg.” Side A is a famous band in the Philippines. Even Archie Castillo, Ariel Rivera’s musical director, compared the band to Side A, South Border and Freestyle.

 The leader of the band

Jojo Yso commented that Frank Urbano is a versatile musician. He is a competent bassist and also knows how to play the piano. Before joining After Touch, Frank was a member of an Italian band that was famous in the community.  Even when Frank was still in the Philippines, he was already a well-known musician. Jon Natoc described Frank as really a great musician who also plays the Trombone. Frank belonged to a family of musicians. His father is known in the community as a superb musician, according to an equally good senior musician drummer Joe Ynot. Frank’s older brother Tito Urbano, as stated by Jon Jon, was a graduate of the University of Santo Tomas Conservatory of Music and is a contemporary of Ryan Cayabyab, a legendary musician in the Philippines. Jojo even shared that Elizabeth Ramsey, a famous comedian and singer, even tried to recruit Frank to be a member of her band.

There are more interesting information about this premiere band of the 90s, which will be featured in the next issue.

(I would like to thank Jojo Yso and Jon Jon Natoc who supplied important information including the years when Philippine artists visited and performed in Winnipeg.) 

(Levy Abad is a freelance writer and also a singer songwriter/recording artist and a member of Migrante Canada-Mb chapter and also a founding member/ program coordinator of Winnipeg Multicultural Human Rights Forum, Levy has released four albums , Canadian Experience Vol. 1 (iTunes ), Never Give Up and Rhythms of Compassion CanEx 3. and  "Tara ng Maglakbay"( June2017). You can reach Levy Abad through , lev67.abad@yahoo.ca or on Facebook.).

 

Jhayzon Paredes: Rocker Entrepreneur
Filipino Journal, April 5-20 ,2017
Anong Masasabi mo? Vol.31,Number 07
Levy Abad

Many of those who are  familiar with the rock and roll scene of Winnipeg's Filipino community most likely know Jason "Jhayzon" Paredes as a rakista and founder of three bands in the 90s, namely: Palitaw (1994-2004), FOURSIGHT (2004-2011) and Fhamathou (2012-2016). Also a founding member of Filipino Association of Musicians and Other Unknown Artists (FAMOUS), Paredes conceptualized the website of  Pinoy Musikeros of Winnipeg - an artists' webpage where musicians can show their prowess and  initiated 204 Live Music" on Facebook as a venue for artists in the community to post their live performances. 

Recently, Paredes launched a music video of his song "Iisa Lamang". He will be releasing also  his EP titled Nasaan Ka Man, (Wherever you are) featuring songs like "Asahan,"  "Bakit Pa?," "Nasaan Ka Man," "Droga," "Iisa lamang," 'Di Nakakatuwa," "Pagbabago" and "Sinayang." These materials can be found online at www.jaizendesign.com.

Jason the Entrepreneur. There is more to Jason Paredes that some people do not know about. Not only a rakista singer-song writer, he is  also an entrepreneur. Paredes is one of the partners (the other one being James Haryett) and founders of JJ Cabinet Warehouse  (406 Pacific Avenue corner Ellen Street). According to Paredes,JJ  Cabinet Warehouse started  in 2011. On the first floor is their show room where quality cabinets are on display. In the basement, Paredes set-up his music studio where his musician friends hang out, unwind and jam. Despite  the success of their business, both Paredes and  Haryett are both down to earth. They prefer donning casual attire, nothing fancy or forced executive wannabe get-ups. Whenever I go there, Jason does not fail to say hi; none of those "deadma mode" assumed by the “hard to get”- snobbish type corporate bosses. Paredes and I would usually talk about writing songs, plans of producing an album, or organizing a concert to make the community happy.

JJ Cabinet Warehouse Touring the warehouse, I asked Paredes what led him to this business. He explained that he worked for the owner of the business for more than ten years as a web designer. Along the way,  he learned the different aspects of the trade until the owner, Morton Sparber, decided to gradually turn-over the running of the business to Haryett . Eventually, Paredes and Haryett, who, by the way, also plays guitar and likes siopao (steamed pork or beef bun), took over the business and repackaged it as JJ Cabinet Warehouse. Paredes said, business is doing good.  “We are getting good deals lately and producing, selling, and installing a lot of products.” One time, Paredes took me with him to deliver cabinets and over lunch, we discussed Rock and Roll and business.

Browsing through JJ Cabinet Warehouse’s web page, I found an article that best describes JJ Cabinet Warehouse products. JJ Cabinets Promotional material states that, “For many, the kitchen can still be the hub of the family. And it can be  beautiful when the cabinets are attractive and functional.”  As a homeowner myself, I can imagine having  JJ Cabinet's quality products in my kitchen.

Quality is of paramount importance in their business. Their construction features include first and foremost, three-quarter-inch plywood boxes, solid wood doors and drawers, which are also full extension and dovetail construction. Second, interior and exterior of entire cabinet and drawers are stained with the same colour as the cabinet doors. Then comes the choice of the three popular traditional colours; maple, cherry, cappuccino (with more colour options available).

Knowing Jason as a Rakista in the community, I am really amazed by Jason’s profile as a business owner and partner.  Furthermore, Haryett explained, “We priced one of our kitchens at about $2,900 and the same kitchen with the same specs from a larger home retailer was $12,000.  You may get  a kitchen from somewhere for close to the same price as ours, but you would be sacrificing a lot of extras and quality”.

"I really can't complain about life"' I asked  Rocker-cum- entrepreneur Paredes where he gets his energy and what keeps him going. He said, “I really can’t complain about life even if  I had experienced some hard times; for example, I was very young when I lost my sibling and my father.  Nowadays, if I have success in my chosen path in life, then I am happy to share that with my family and friends in the community.”  He added,  “In life, one has to be patient and persistent and just go on because everything that you sow in life will grow and bear fruit one day.”

(Levy Abad is a freelance writer and also a singer songwriter/recording artist and a member of Migrante Canada-Mb chapter and also a founding member/ program coordinator of Winnipeg Multicultural Human Rights Forum, Levy has released three albums , Canadian Experience Vol. 1 (iTunes), Never Give Up and Rhythms of Compassion CanEx 3. Levy is soon to release a his fourth album by fall titled "I Love Canada". You can reach Levy Abad through , lev67.abad@yahoo.ca or on Facebook.).

Rock of Edges (2006 to 2017)

Levy Abad
The Diversity Times  , 
April 2017 , Vol.6 No.4

The Beginnings of the Band

Rommel , Mandy , Al, and Brian

Rock of Edges, formerly known as Rock of Ages, is a Filipino-Canadian band. According to Al Federis, they changed their name into Rock of Edges in the Fall of 2016. The band plays classic Rock. The members are Norman “Mandy” Bustarde (bass guitar), Al Federis (rhythm, lead guitar and back-up vocals), Brian De Nieva (lead guitar) and Rommel Torres (vocals).  Rock of Edges is known in the Filipino Rock and Roll scene as a touring band, as most of their weekend gigs are outside Manitoba. These guys cover songs of Guns and Roses, Bon Jovi, CCR, Metalicca, ACDC, Kid Rock, Led Zeppelin and Queen.  When I called Al Federis last September 3, 2016, the band was in Thompson, Manitoba for a two-day gig. Rock of Edges has performed at the Beer Fest on October 1 and 2, 2016 at PCCM. The festival was organized by the Winnipeg Filipino Beer Festival and Vocal Arts Centre whose CEO is Jose “Bobbit” Nepomuceno. I asked Al  to share names of places where they have performed  and here are some of them:  Neon Lights  (Canadiana Hotel, 1400 Notre Dame), United Tavern (2100 McPhillips), St. Joe’s Garage (103 Bond St.), KABAYAN  64 (Keewatin St.), Brooklands Inn (97 Keewatin St., Club) and  St. B. Bar and Grill (171 Dumoulin St.).  Al added that Rock of Edges performed at the Fall Music Festival at St. Andrews on August 26, 2016.

Some interesting facts about the band members

Mandy Bustarde, the founder and band leader, started playing the guitar when he was in high school. He confided that he had no band experience in the Philippines but he gained the same mainly here in Winnipeg. His first gig was with a band called Wreckless from 1987 to 1997 (FB interview).

Rommel Torres, the vocalist of Rock of Edges who works at Deer Lodge and been a wedding singer for eight years  and a DJ  prior to being a member of the band, commented, “It’s always exciting, especially when you see all the audience having such a wonderful  time and fun singing along and dancing with the  band. Sometimes even the owner of the bar is dancing and singing too.”  Rommel added that, “I always wanted to prove that even with our colour in a white dominated industry, we can always overcome the race factor and make folks enjoy our music for what it is.” He believes in the saying that “You got to perform or play like it is your last.”

Brian de Nieva shared his reflection as a member of the band. “Rock of Edges is an experience of a lifetime for me, not only that it gave me an opportunity to continue my love of music/guitar playing and performing, it also gave me a taste of how touring musicians live, get to meet different people and go to different places.”  As for his band mates, here is what he shared, “Have good relationship with my band mates. We are like family. On out of town gigs, we go around exploring the place during the day, go for coffee or eat after the gig etc.”

Mandy Bustarde (Band Leader )

Brian started playing the guitar back in 1994 when he was fourteen years old and that was during the Grunge era and Pinoy Alternative bands. He was in 2^nd year high school in the Philippines. His early influences were Nirvana, Guns N’ Roses, Bon Jovi, Metallica and local bands like Eraserheads and the Youth.

Like other touring groups, Rock of Edges had their share of funny moments, one of them Brian clearly remembers. He quipped, “On one occasion, our drummer forgot to bring the drumsticks. We were in Yorkton Sk. to perform in a bar called City Limits Saloon. We arrived there around 6 pm and while setting up our instruments, the drummer found out he forgot his sticks! And the gig starts in 3 hours! So we went out to look for music stores but all the stores we went to were already closed, so we thought we’ll just improvise. For our last try, we ended up at Walmart. We found some wooden dowel sticks and taped them together. Thank God, those survived one night.” He shared another story, ”There was also one time, going home from Creighton SK, our van developed a radiator leak  and we ran out of water to put in the radiator. Being in the middle of nowhere, we had no choice but to get water from the ditch.”

The music continues

Reflecting on the years of Mandy’s experience as a member of the band, I cannot help but notice the consistency and persistence he demonstrated as a musician. As a musician myself, I know that the band scene is tough. Another striking thing about Rock of Ages or Edges is that most of their performances are outside of Winnipeg. Even Jojo Yso who has been in the band scene for quite some time affirmed “Rock of Ages/ Edges touring character.” They had gigs in Thompson, City Limits Inn, 8 Betts Ave., Saskatchewan, Queen Street Station Bar and Grill, Dryden and Lac du Bonnet, to mention a few. Rommel Torres shared that they were also offered to play in Sandy Lake, Ontario by one of the native chiefs at their biggest yearly event called “Muddy Waters Festival” in 2016, but since two of their members can’t make it, they turned it down. Given these mode, I asked Mandy if they are full time musicians and he replied that they do this on weekends with consistency.

Al Federis, who started playing the guitar in 1990s and influenced by Black Sabbath, Metallica, Ozzy Osborne and Filipino alternative rock groups like Eraserheads and Rockstar and the first member of Rock of Edges whom I interviewed has this to say, “It is a very rewarding career as a Filipino musician and a member of an all Filipino rock band here in Winnipeg.  I’ve been playing with the band for ten years now and a member of CMA agency. I experienced gigs in a lot of hotels /bars here in Winnipeg and Manitoba, Ontario, Saskatchewan. Unfortunately, the partisan nature of some people in our community still exists. Some folks would ask you to attend their events and even ask you to perform, but when it is your time to ask for help, nobody bothers to support.”  This reminded me of Jim Croce’s “Ages” where a line says, “When your down nobody gives a damn anyway.”

To have a taste of their music, I invite you to go to YouTube and type Rock of Ages or Norman Bustarde (better known as Mandy in the band scene) and you will hear some of their covers  like Bed of Roses (Bon Jovi ), Living on a Prayer( Bon Jovi), Crazy for you, Creep (Radiohead), Sweet Child of Mine(Guns N’ Roses), and Shook Me All Night (ACDC).

Writing this Rock of Edges narrative simply amazed me. These guys are going around the Province and even venturing as far as Ontario and Saskatchewan, showing their prowess as Rakista representatives of the Filipino community of Manitoba.  It makes me imagine standing up to this challenge and travelling to perform as a folk and country musician in the last quarter of my life and chronicle the process. This takes me back to 1974 during the time of Butch Jularbal and the Cobra band or its later evolution, The Jade Band, which also toured outside of Manitoba.  I am happy and grateful for the chance of writing the narrative of this band and musicians so that their story will never be forgotten.

(Levy Abad is a freelance writer and also a singer songwriter/recording artist and a member of Migrante Canada-Mb chapter and also a founding member/ program coordinator of Winnipeg Multicultural Human Rights Forum, Levy has released three albums , Canadian Experience Vol. 1 (iTunes ), Never Give Up and Rhythms of Compassion CanEx 3. Levy is soon to release a his fourth album by fall titled "Tara ng Maglakbay". You can reach Levy Abad through , lev67.abad@yahoo.ca or on Facebook.).

Nothing Personal
March 3,2017 The Diversity times
http://thediversitytimes.ca/2017/03/03/new-nothing-personal/

Levy Abad

On the Peace process in the Philippines. “The National Democratic Front of the Philippines,” the Government’s counterpart in the failed peace talks, has expressed optimism that the Duterte administration would return to the negotiating table and work for “All Out Peace” despite the President’s termination of peace talks with communist rebels.  Indeed, what a wasted opportunity to resolve the roots of the civil strife in the Philippines through peaceful means. Even former President Fidel V. Ramos and retired Brigadier Gen. Victor Corpus of the Philippine Army who defected to the NPA back in the 1970’s and author of the book “Silent War,” expressed their support for the continuance of the peace talks. Just as the negotiation is entering the crucial phase of addressing the social and economic roots of belligerency, the President terminated the talks and declared All Out War on a movement that fights for “nationalist industrialization and genuine agrarian reform,”  free health care and free education,  to mention a few. If the President declares All Out War on the left, where does the President stand? Is he taking the rightward drift?

On Total War. During the time of Cory Aquino as President of the Philippines, there were a lot of left wing progressive leaders in the bureaucracy working for genuine change for the people. Even the 1986 Constitution contains progressive provisions that, if implemented with patriotism, will lead to some progressive changes. In the midst of these, the militarist wing launched a series of coups to pressure the Aquino regime to the right and consolidate foreign domination leading to globalization. Out of fear, the regime succumbed and betrayed the people’s agenda by declaring total war against the people's movement.  Funny that a Lady President has to be hounded with several coup attempts to turn right, while in the case of the present regime, mere gossip of a coup led to an “All Out War” declaration.

Shock Doctrine. In a short period of time, the Duterte regime is “allegedly  involved in 7,000 drug related killings” (Philippines: The Police’s murderous war on the poor) of  pushers and addicts who mostly come from the poor. These extra-judicial killings bring a chilling effect into the psyche of the people, inspiring fear and serves as a symbol of supposedly “radical change,” while the social system remains intact and integrated with neo-liberalism. Is this a case of “shock the people” so that they will never resist and instead embrace a neo-liberal agenda?

Anti-American Rhetoric. The President of the Philippines has projected an image of standing up against the United States’ policies verbally while on the other hand, expressed that he needs the military that is oriented towards the US to help him in governance.  Where is the stand on independent foreign policy and national sovereignty? I hope this won’t lead to killing more nationalist and patriotic activist.

A SONG FOR YOU by Leon Russell. The passing of Leon Russell before Christmas reminded me of the song “A Song for You,” one of my favourites.  From the time I heard it being sung by Chikoy Pura of the Jerks at Mayric’s in España St., Manila, I  was drawn to it right away and had ever since learned and performed it at gigs and special occasions, both in the old country and here in Canada.  “I’ve been through many places in my life and time, I’ve sung a lot songs  and I made some bad rhymes, I’ve acted out my life in stages , with ten thousand people watching , but we’re  alone now and I am singing this song for you.”  Leon is a legendary artist whom I never met but has impacted my youthful soul back in the 90s to embrace the life of a songwriter.

4-in, 4-out rule for Temporary Foreign Workers is no longer in place, effective immediately. Honorable John McCallum, former Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, and the Honorable MaryAnne Mihychuk, former Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour made this announcement  on December 13, 2016. According to Ethel Tungohan, Ph.D, Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, York University, “Here’s my take on the removal of the four year in four year out rule. It is through the tenacious efforts of Migrant activists that the rule was removed. This is a testament to the importance of activism in eliciting change.  The fight for landed status for all TFW, of course continues” (Source: pinoy-canada.com).  Long live migrant activism!  Unfortunately, for the two Ministers, after announcing the good news, they were replaced.  Why?

Two Richest Canadians have as much wealth as poorest 30 per cent, report says. According to an article by Nicole Thompson, The Canadian Press, “Oxpam report says the wealth of billionaire businessmen David Thompson and Galen Weston Sr., equals that of about 11 million Canadians.” Is this for real?  Is this happening in so called “Socialist Canada?”

“No one can stop me declaring martial law,” Duterte warns amid escalating drug epidemic (Published time 15 Jan 2017 Reuters).  “While earlier the President said that, we had martial law before, what happened? Did it improve our lives now? Not at all.”  These conflicting statements are coming from the President of the Philippines, who is a lawyer by profession. During the time of Marcos, the insurgency was still weak that the dictatorship had to fabricate the reason for its declaration. Nowadays, could it be possible that the drug war is only an alibi for attacking the people’s movement, which has already matured and has grown stronger in almost 5 decades of resistance?

On the MPNP.  I was discussing the policy changes that the sitting government is planning to implement, like the $500 increase in fees for the MPNP, and somebody told me that I am being political because I mentioned the Premier, as if silence isn’t? Policies implemented by a government reflect the decisions approved by the leadership of the province. How come mentioning the name or naming who’s who, is partisan? How come attacking a policy isn’t? As if policies are ideology free. Is there such a thing as political neutrality when silence can be the ultimate political act?

(Levy Abad is a freelance writer and also a singer songwriter/recording artist and a member of Migrante Canada-Mb chapter and also a founding member/ program coordinator of Winnipeg Multicultural Human Rights Forum, Levy has released three albums , Canadian Experience Vol. 1 (iTunes ), Never Give Up and Rhythms of Compassion CanEx 3. Levy is soon to release a his fourth album by fall titled "I Love Canada". You can reach Levy Abad through , lev67.abad@yahoo.ca or on Facebook.).

Immortal Sacrament  (2008-2016)
Filipino Journal, March 5-20,2017, Volume 31,Number 05
Ano'ng Masasabi Mo? (p.19)
Levy Abad

 One of the best Filipino -Canadian Metal bands in Manitoba, Immortal Sacrament, during its heyday in 2012, was comprised of Paul Magnaye (vocals),Marron Versoza (guitar) Niko Guilbang (bass ), Victor "Vic" Bautista (guitar), and Joseph David (drums). 

How did Immortal Sacrament start ?

Paul Magnaye provided the answer when I went to interview him in his house on February 10, 2017 about the history of the band. He told me that it started out as L.A.D. back in 2008. Joseph David told me the same information when I asked him what L.A.D stood for.  I asked Paul about the meaning of LAD and he jokingly said that it means “Leaving at Dads,” referring to adults who still live with their parents.

L.A.D's original members were the following: Paul Magnaye, Chris Pangan, Joseph David and Michael Borja. LAD, as a band moniker, was kind of a provisional name, since during that time, they were still thinking of a better name.  They were able to come up with something better by October 16, 2009. After performing as front act to the Winnipeg concert of the visiting Philippine Alternative Rock band PUPIL, they decided to adopt “Sacrament” as the new name of their band. They also started writing original music.   

Joseph David said that it was one of the judges at a local "Battle of the Bands" that they participated in who suggested to change their name. Apparently, Sacrament is a common word, they need something unique. If one would search "Sacrament" online, then the automatic hits would have referred to the religious meaning of the word. Besides, there is already a Metal band named Sacrament (an American band that was formed in 1989, in Pennsylvania, United States) Even the 90s forming American band, Lamb of God might get a hit; its fifth studio album is titled Sacrament. That was enough to convince the guys to add "Immortal" to their name, to make it more unique without sacrificing the name recall that their name Sacrament had already gained in the local scene.

Mid-2009, Chris Pangan and Michael Borja quit the band for personal reasons. Niko Guilbang replaced Borja; Vic Bautista and Marron Versoza became the 1st and 2^nd lead guitars respectively.The name Immortal Sacrament was legitimized in 2011,when they joined the competition  “My Band Rocks”  at the Dylan O’ Connors Irish Pub,winning three consecutive battles and eventually emerging  as the overall winner during  the finals, held this time at Henderson Draft House.

In Late 2011, Joseph David left, joining Pangan in another band named Ethnica. Bautista left too - who had to concentrate on his work and family. Magnaye said that afterwards, he and Versoza became the core of the group. By the ensuing year, Immortal Sacrament consisted of Magnaye,Versoza ,Ronnel Villamar on guitars ,and Jolo Mejia on drums. Magnaye also mentioned that the band wanted to acknowledge fellow Filipino musician Mandy Bustarde, for he was the one who introduced Immortal Sacrament to the Metal community and who convinced the organizer of the "My Band Rocks" to give Filipino bands a chance. 

David said that the major musical influences of Immortal Sacrament were “System of a Down (SOAD),” “Killswitch Engage,” and “Bullet for My Valentine”. This was reaffirmed by the journalist Alfie Vera Mella,who featured the band, in 2014, in his column "Sa Ugoy ng Musika" in the local community newspapaer Filipino Journal. Asked where they get the songs that they covered, Magnaye said, “We usually cover famous metal songs that  get regular airplay on Winnipeg's Rock station Power 97.” 

The awesome thing about this band is the fact that they write their own songs.  Magnaye and  David wrote the songs; and then Bautista started contributing too. I personally listened to some of their songs on their FB page and they really sounded great. It feels like a really wasted talent if  they really would not be able to emerge with their original music in the community at large.

On March 8, 2014, Immortal Sacrament performed in Brandon at the North Hill Inn.In addition to that, the band  got to perform also at bars and other events such as The Zoo,Ozzy’s (160 Osborne St.), Club3D at Kirkfield Motor Hotel (3317 Portage Avenue), Dylan O’ Connors Irish Pub (2609 Portage Avenue)  and Henderson Draft House at Curtis Gordon Motor Hotel (1011 Henderson Highway), Rookies at Central Hotel (201 Melrose Avenue E), The Cavern (112 Osborne Street),  Chugfest at  Ridgeville, Rock Against Ignorance at West End Cultural Centre and the FAMOUS-produced Pinoy Rock Fest on May 24, 2014, held at Jimel’s International Cuisine (A-1045 St. James St). Aside from this, Alfie’s article also mentioned, “Immortal Sacrament was the winner of the Dylan o’ Connors’ 2011 My Band Rocks competition, performing alongside many of Manitoba’s prime bands.” Mella, in the same article, described Immortal Sacrament aptly as the “Ultimate Filipino –Canadian Metal Band in Manitoba.”

I messaged some of the members of Sacrament to ask for  quotes. Pangan's short reply was, “The experience is totally different and new to me. I was never a metal head until Paul (Magnaye) introduced  me to the genre and after having watched Slapshock  during  the Philippine Metal band's concerts in Winnipeg. Furthermore, it was during my time in Immortal Sacrament, when I begun learning how to write original materials. We also had the opportunity to share our music outside the Filipino community, becoming well-received even by non-Filipino Metal music enthusiast. The experience I had was amazing and it also brought out other fledgling Pinoy players hiding in the shadows who also got inspired to start writing their own songs."

Borja:“Our first gig as Immortal Sacrament was at The Cavern in Osborne Village.  Nobody knew us. Four Asians playing heavy metal in Winnipeg? This can’t be real, right? People thought that we were a joke, but we proved them wrong. From that night on, we started building connections outside of the Filipino community and invitations started to come.”

In my visit at Paul Magnaye’s home, I asked him for a quote and he said that, “As an artist, one should not stay in one’s comfort zone because music is unlimited.  You will never grow if you stay in your comfort zone. One must always explore. I am happy that we were able to help in paving the way for other musicians in the Metal scene.”  He added enthusiastically, "It is a great ride,one of the best, having been a part of the music scene."

(Levy Abad is a freelance writer and also a singer songwriter/recording artist and a member of Migrante Canada-Mb chapter and also a founding member/ program coordinator of Winnipeg Multicultural Human Rights Forum, Levy has released three albums , Canadian Experience Vol. 1 (iTunes ), Never Give Up and Rhythms of Compassion CanEx 3. Levy is soon to release a his fourth album by fall titled "I Love Canada". You can reach Levy Abad through, lev67.abad@yahoo.ca or on Facebook).

Support for Duterte resonates in Winnipeg

Levy Abad
Ang Peryodiko Vol. XV NO.5
March 1-15,2017
Winnipeg ,Manitoba

courtesy of  Nelson  `Nonie` Manalili

Cold weather did not deter the supporters of President Rodrigo Duterte of the Philippines from gathering at the Forks to respond to the call of  groups supporting President Duterte to organize a global campaign in solidarity with the homefront, which many people perceive as being destabilized by the opposition forces whom they call "Dilawan" (Yellow).

Around fifty supporters converged with their flags, streamers and a life size picture of "Mayor Digong."  It was also an opportunity to discuss the latest developments in the Philippines. They also brought food for the participants to partake.

Simultaneously, in the Philippines, rallies were organized and held in the traditional venues. One group had  a rally at the EDSA Shrine where some of the veterans of the EDSA uprising gathered by the thousands. On the other hand, the supporters of President Rodrigo Duterte had their rally at the Quirino Grandstand, which according to Reuters, police estimate that around 200,000 people gathered to show their support for the programs of the Duterte regime against poverty, corruption and illegal drugs ("Duterte`s opponents turn historic event into protest march," Manuel Mogoto, Reuters, February 26, 2017). 

I asked Elaine Sauler- Tumbokon, the Winnipeg Manitoba Coordinator for the group - Duterte Winning Team, to give some words about the gathering and this is what she said, "We organized this event to support President Rodrigo Duterte because it is more fun in the Philippines if it is drug free."

Another lady who attended the Forks rally of the Duterte Winnipeg Team is Katya Labelle, who is also from Mindanao and whose mom is from Davao. She was surprised to know that I am from Davao too. Here is what she said, ʺI am here to show my support for the President. Even though I am not in the Philippines, I am proud of what he is doing to make the Philippines better.”

Joel Salazar of Batangas and the President of Talisay Association of Manitoba explained, ʺKahit kami ay nasa abroad, ‘di kami papayag na manahimik kung aatakihin nila ang Pangulong Digong. Si Digong ay ginagawa ang lahat para sa mga mahirap at hindi lang para sa iilan. Ang Pilipinas ay parang taong may cancer at hindi na pwedeng gamutin ng band aid lamang, ang kailangan ay matinding operasyon.ʺ

Edwin Ponce, for his part, said, ʺFeel na feel namin ang malaking pagbabago within 7 months governance. Si Mayor ay ginagawa ang lahat para matuldukan ang mga problema lalo na ang corruption, droga at kahirapan. Itong sa kabila naman, ginagawa ang lahat para patalsikin si Digong. They are doing black propaganda to tarnish the image of the Duterte government.”

Jesus Diotay from Negros, who grew up in Jolo, Sulu, has this message for President Duterte, “Continue with the programs that you are implementing and we will be at your back supporting you along the way. We are also ready to struggle even if we are here in Winnipeg in the midst of the cold weather, we will be supporting you.”

Elmer De Guzman commented, “We are here at the Forks to support President Rodrigo Duterte, and we are also thankful for the changes that Digong did. All the barriers that block the way of Digong have to be cleared.”

Aristotle Cedilla, also from Davao City, explained that he grew up with President Duterte when the latter was still the mayor of Davao City. He said, "Mayor Duterte is a hands-on leader. He responds to the needs of the ordinary people and that is why I support him.”

Last but not the least, Ray Forbes Argulla from Bulacan gave me his brief remark, "Mayor Digong is our President and he is doing well. The “Dilawans” are trying to oust him and so, even if it is freezing, we gathered here to express our support."

As a freelance writer, I went to the Forks thinking that most of the attendees would come from Mindanao or Davao City, in particular, but I was surprised to meet participants who came from different areas of the Philippines as well.

As an EDSA 1 and EDSA 2 participant, I can understand the frustration of the people with the previous regimes of Presidents Corazon Aquino, Joseph Estrada, Fidel Valdez Ramos and Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, since these regimes are considered as failures in implementing the promises of the 1987 Freedom Constitution. From 1986 to 2016, thirty years had lapsed and not one of these regimes was able to launched nationalist industrialization and genuine agrarian reform.  It is only now under the Duterte administration that some patriotic and progressive individuals were appointed in the Cabinet. Among them are Secretary Judy Taguiwalo (Department of Social Welfare and Development), Secretary Rafael “Ka Paeng” Mariano (Department of Agrarian Reform), Under-Secretary Joel Maglunsod (Department of Labour and Employment), and Gina Lopez (Secretary of Department of Environment and Natural Resources).  

The Duterte regime will be buffeted by tremendous pressure coming from the right, as represented by the `Yellow" opposition and the militarist faction in the AFP, to veer absolutely to the right and let go of the patriotic tendency and presence in the Cabinet.  We can see that this is happening now when the peace talks have been terminated, making the peace process the first victim of this tremendous pressure. Fortunately, talks are still going on.  Aside from Duterte`s programs against corruption and drugs, addressing the root cause of belligerency through socio- economic reforms is the most strategic way in achieving justice and lasting peace. 


(Levy Abad is a freelance writer and also a singer songwriter/recording artist and a member of Migrante Canada-Mb chapter and also a founding member/ program coordinator of Winnipeg Multicultural Human Rights Forum, Levy has released three albums , Canadian Experience Vol. 1 (iTunes ), Never Give Up and Rhythms of Compassion CanEx 3. Levy is soon to release a his fourth album by fall titled "I Love Canada". You can reach Levy Abad through , lev67.abad@yahoo.ca or on Facebook.).