News Bit: HFCC Basketball Tournament Held 2

News Bit: Passport Advisory 2

Community: Ansan Basketball Game Kicks Off 2
Editorial: All Together Now! 3
OFW-KOREA-2006-001 Labor Updates: EPS Guide Part 1 4
‘One Philippines’ Exhibit Schedule 6
Volume 2 Issue 6 2009 www.sulyapinoy.org

by Edward A. Castro

H yewhadong - - Labor Day is a celebration of

workers' economic and social contributions to the
society. However, rather arranging a festivity to
commemorate the event, the Philippine Embassy and the
Association for Korea-Philippines Administration (AKPA)
organized a forum last May 3 at the basement chapel of
the Hyewhadong Catholic Church in Seoul.
“Widespread job insecurity, along with a worsening job
market, has pushed the foreign workers into a corner. Due
to these uncertainties, the foreign workers have confronted
with various social problems such as unemployment,
conflict, and frustration, etc. These are all presenting a
social task the governments of Korea and the Philippines
must solve,” Professor Amante concluded.

Further, Professor Tae-myung Kim of Hannam University

The 4-hour gathering produced constructive and valuable
suggestions for enhancing cooperative efforts of both the
Philippines and South Korea in combating economic
challenges confronting OFWs amidst the worsening global
financial crisis.
The current global financial crisis has reinforced the need
for closer economic ties among the Asian nations, which
have been severely hit by massive currency fluctuations
set off by debt insolvency in larger economies. In South
Korea, the crisis has resulted to low production in many
companies. Low production means probable job losses or
reduction in work time thus adding burden to migrant
workers' plight in navigating the economic crunch.
Keynoting the event, Filipino economics and business
professor Maragtas S.V. Amante of Hanyang University
in Ansan said that the realities of labor in the global econ-
omy invites us to have a deep reflection on the situation,
in relation to the progress and future of humanity. Profes-
sor Amante, who is a former Dean of the School of Labor
and Industrial Relations of the University of the Philippines
emphasized that labor is about people and not a commod-
ity to be bought or sold.
In his keynote speech entitled “The Impact of the Global counter-reactions to the issues. Mr. Rebenson Recaña,
Financial Crisis in Korea on Foreign Workers,” Professor Administrative Adviser of the Filipino EPS Workers Asso-
Amante said that the current economic crisis has been the ciation (FEWA) articulates that because of the crisis,
result of institutional flaws in the local and international foreign workers who were able to find new employers have
financial systems. He called for reforms that would make become vulnerable to exploitation. Rather than losing their
these systems fairer and more effective.
by Edward A. Castro
talked about “Cooperation Between the Philippines and
Korea to Help Foreign Workers.” Professor Kim said that in
this turbulent period, OFWs and other groups of foreign
workers has to understand the difficult situation of Korean
economy and to agree on the policies and directions of
Photo by Felix Ferrer
Korean government, and share the ideas that they and the
L-R: Professor Tae-myung Kim, Professor Sin-taek Kang,
Korean government should try to overcome the crisis
Professor Maragtas S.V. Amante, and Rebenson Recaña
together. “Foreign workers who are an integral part of the
discussed labor issues during the Labor Day Forum held at the
Korean society, should also suggest good ideas and par- basement chapel of the Hyewha-dong Catholic Chruch last
ticipate in the Korean economic recovery,” Professor Kim May 3, 2009.
added.
According to him, Korea is expected to upgrade the social
safety net, re-structure the labor market based on
"flexibility," and divide the labor market to share the working
by Alden Balgos
areas between domestic and foreign workers. These meas-
ures will bring changes to the order of labor market, and re-
organize the interests of related parties. This reform
requires a close coordination and fine-tuning among many
economic players such as the enterprises, the groups of
S eoul –As part of the celebration of the 60th
anniversary of diplomatic ties between Korea
and the Philippines, the Philippine Embassy spear-
domestic and foreign workers, the embassies of the each headed by the Department of Tourism in Seoul are
country and the Korean government. preparing to showcase a 2-day exhibit on May 30
and 31.
After the topics are delivered, discussants representing the
labor, education, and research sectors delivered their
Dubbed as “One Philippines” , the plaza in front of
the Seoul City Hall will be transformed into a grand,
open exhibit area that will showcase the history,
culture, tradition, and education, tourism and busi-
ness environments of the Philippines.
employment, workers would take on a job even if they
(turn to page 2) Various cultural performances, including performers
from the Philippines and lively street dances, will
add color to the two-day event. Koreans and Filipi-
nos alike, as well as other foreign residents will have
a chance to experience a Philippine fiesta in Seoul.
(turn to page 2)

I taewon, Seoul -- “We need to actively take part in enlistment following the passage of the Overseas Absentee
shaping the future of our nation by carefully choosing Voting Act in 2003.
our leaders. Registration is the first step,” Ambassador
Luis T. Cruz said in his statement to SULYAPINOY. The embassy opened the registration on February 1 of this
year, coinciding with its special consular services every
Ambassador Cruz emphasized the importance of the day, and every first and third Sunday of the month. While a
registration process, as it is the key to ensuring that regular field registration is being administered every 2nd
Filipinos are able to practice their right to suffrage. It is and 4th Sunday in Hyewha-dong Catholic Church.
through elections that Filipinos make a direct and imme-
diate contribution to the growth and development of the Under the overseas absentee voting law, Filipinos over-
country. seas can vote for candidates running for national positions
such as President, Vice President, Senators, and Party List
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) administers Representatives aside from those in the local level.
the Overseas Absentee Voting (OAV) enlistment and Artists’ digital perspective on the ‘One Philippines’
elections, while the Department of Foreign Affairs’ OAV “We have so far 276 registrants since the registration Exhibit to be held at the Seoul City Hall Plaza on May
Secretariat implements them through the embassies and officially started. There are currently more than 50,000 29, 30 and 31, 2009.
consulates worldwide. This registration is the third OAV Filipinos in South Korea, approximately (turn to page 2)
SULYAPINOY is accepting cash donations for its monthly printing expenses. You may deposit them @ Account #: 049702 04 058587 / Account Name: Sofonias N. Paragsa / Bank: KB or Kookmin Bank
 NEWS
Korean, Filipino Professors..
would work beyond normal working hours or days with-
out overtime pay.“Those who decided to become irregu-
lar workers have no social protection like health insur-
ance, accident insurance and pension,” Recaña added.
The global crisis has weakened the Korean won against
the U.S. dollar significantly. This has reduced the peso
equivalent of the Filipino workers’ wages in won around
30%. Therefore, the money that Filipino workers send to
their families is now 30% lower than what they used to
remit.
“The proposal of Professor Kim for language and techni-
cal training for foreign workers is a good idea. However,
the Ministry of Labor should coordinate closely with the
embassies of the foreign workers or directly with the
workers' communities so the MOL would know what
training programs are relevant to the workers and what
communities must be given more attention,” Recaña
concluded.
Other discussants who were present during the forum
are Professor Jung-hyun Park, a visiting professor of the
University of Sto. Tomas, Professor Sung-yong Park of
the Pyeontek University, and Mr. Kyong-sik Cho, a senior
labor and public administration researcher of Yonsei
University.
RP Embassy Urges OFWs...
9,000 of whom are already in the database as registered
voters,” said DFA Vice Consul Arnel Talisayon.
“Our goal is to have as many of our kababayan take part
on the electoral process,” Talisayon said, but at present,
the turnout is still low because of what he called the "last
minute mentality" of Pinoys. However, he said he is
hoping that the number of OAV registrants will increase
because of the long registration period.
The embassy also said that they are scheduling other
field registration activities so that residents outside Seoul,
such as those in Daegu and Busan, will have a chance
to register. Recently, the Pyupyong Community Welfare
Center in Incheon requested the embassy for field
registration.“We also attend to the requests of the Filipino
Communities,” Talisayon said.
We also enlist help in promoting the registration--
SULYAPINOY is a good example of how Filipinos can
help encourage their fellows to register,” Talisayon
added.
DOT Korea to Hold...
The highlight of the event will be the "Fiestas Filipinas!
Grand Parade," which will go around downtown Seoul,
showcasing Philippines' traditional festivals such as the
Ati-Atihan, Dinagyang, Sinulog, Kadayawan, Maskara,
Panagbenga, and Flores de Mayo.
Further, in support to the different Filipino communities
performing in the street dance, the National Commission
for Culture and Arts (NCAA) sent award-winning artists to
train the performers. Some of the groups undergoing
rigid trainings are Bride of Jesus Christ, Light of Life, and
Cordillera Brotherhood Organization, among others.
Tourism Director and Attaché Maricon Basco-Ebron said
that “this year is a banner year for both the Philippines
and Korea, and the participation of the different Filipino
communities in the parade will give the celebration more
meaning and flavor.”
There will also be Filipino cooking demonstrations along
with food stalls selling authentic pinoy dishes, fruits,
souvenirs and event memorabilia.
2 SULYAPINOY APRIL 2009 www.sulyapinoy.org
Ambassador Luis T. Cruz, Labor Attaché Delmer R.
Cruz, and Welfare Officer Esperanza C. Cobarrubias
likewise graced the event as they read Labor Day
congratulatory messages in-behalf of President
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, DOLE Secretary Marianito
D. Roque, and OWWA Administrator Carmelita S.
Dimzon respectively. While Fr. Alvin Parantar, MSP
of the Hyewhadong Filipino Catholic Community led
the invocation, and Sofonias Paragsa, FEWA
President, enjoined the participants in the singing of
the Philippine national anthem.
Also present are Mr. Byoung-sik Park, AKPA Presi-
dent who gave his rather inspiring opening remarks
to over 50 participants from different Filipino
Communities, and Mr. Dae-hee Lee, President of the
Korean Association for Public Administration (KAPA)
who gave his congratulatory message to the Filipino
Community for its commendable contributions to
South Korea for 60 years of bilateral partnership.
Forum moderator Mr. Sin-taek Kang, an Emeritus
Professor of the Seoul University guided the partici-
pants during the Question and Answer, whereas Mr.
Yong-Chul Kim, also professor from Busan
University emceed the ceremony.
“We coordinate very closely with the Filipino Com-
munity. We issued reminders via email, newsletter,
radio, website and church announcements.
Applicants must be a Filipino citizen. Must make a
personal appearance to the registration, present a
valid passport or supporting travel documents, and
must be 18 years old by May 10, 2010.
For dual citizens, applicants must present their true
copy of Order of Approval of his application to retain
Filipino Citizenship. For seafarers, a copy of their
Seaman's Book or other supporting documents are
required.
Registration will run until August 31, 2009. For
inqu ir ie s, you may email 2010elec-
tions@philembassy-seoul.com or call 82-2 796-
7387~89. The voting period will start April 10, 2010
until 3:00 p.m. Philippine time of May 10, 2010.
Likewise, Papal Nuncio Osvaldo Padilla will officiate
a catholic thanksgiving mass on the noon of 31st to
be followed by a program of the Philippine Overseas
Labor Office and the Ministry of Labor. The two
agencies will give recognition to Korean NGO’s and
individuals who are helping migrant workers.
The 3-day celebration will feature cultural presenta-
tions and performances that includes the Korea
Military Band, the National Dance Company of
Korea, Fiestas Filipinas Show, and Korea-based
Filipino Bands. Also, Filipino recording artist Kris
Lawrence and Korean singer Park Sang-min will
highlight the musical concert on the evening of 31.
The exhibit will be preceded by a fashion show at
Lotte Hotel on May 29, featuring a fusion of Philip-
pine and Korean designs. While the Unveiling of the
Marker at the UN Memorial Cemetery in Korea
(UNMCK) in Busan will be held on May 28.
News Bits
by Amie Sison
H yehwadong Seoul- The Hyehwadong Filipino
Catholic Community (HFCC) holds it’s 12th Annual
Basketball Tournament at Seoul Catholic University last
April 19, 2009.
The new chairperson of the Sports of Committee
Michael Panlilo stood as the master of ceremo-
nies. While His Excellency Ambassador Luiz Cruz and
Fr. Alvin Parantar M.S.P. shared their inspirational
messages to the players of the basketball league.
Emily Dicolen-Abagat Ph.D., Chairperson of the HFCC
Education Committee led the oath of sportsmanship and
asked the teams to sign the Covenant of Sportsmanship.
The fourteen teams from different parts of Seoul and
nearby cities proudly presented their uniforms and
muses. The Best in Uniform and Best Muse was edged
by the Mindoro Team.
Succeeding games will be held at Bomun-dong High
School. Full schedule of the games and teams are avail-
able at www.sambayanan.org
Community Correspondence
by Billy Vela –AFC
A nsan City, Gyeonggi-do – Amid the brisk weather
brought by the spring season, the Ansan Filipino
Community held its Annual Basketball Tournament's
opening ceremony last April 26, at the Hanyang University
gym.
Mr. Lim Young-seun, the city's Chief Administrator graced
the event and delivered a congratulatory message in
behalf of city mayor Park Ju-won, who wasn't able to
attend because of other commitments.
“This year, Korea and Philippines is celebrating its 60
years of endearing relationship and I think this tournament
is even making our relationship deeper and more mean-
ingful “Mayor Park said. “I hope that this event makes you
feel happy and joyful.” He added.
To highlight the event, the search for Ms. Summer Girl
2009 was held where nine young and gorgeous muses
representing the different teams competed for the title.
Muses of FMWAS' Ms. Crisel Esayas and LAHV's Ms.
Eileen Villamatter emerged as 2nd runner-up and 1st runner
-up respectively. While Venise Dumandan of Ilonggo Volts
was hailed as the 2009 Ms. Summer Girl.
The 12 competing teams are the following: Guardians,
Lemerians, LAHV, GSL, Ilonggo Volts, PhilTrust Travel,
FMWAS, Pampanga Brothers, Amianan, Mabuhay Blades,
Pangasinan and Mexican Vismin.
The basketball tournament will run for 13 weeks. Champi-
onship game is tentatively scheduled on July 26, 2009 at
Choji High School Gym. The event was hosted by former
AFC presidents Billy Vela and Kathlia De Castro.
I t has come to the Embassy’s attention that some
Filipino workers in Korea have used their passports
as collaterals for personal loans filed with informal
lending institutions in Korea. This practice is strictly
prohibited under Philippine laws. The Embassy maybe
constrained to report the matter to the Department of
Foreign Affairs. A violation of the Passport Law may
result to the cancellation of the passport by the
Secretary of Foreign Affairs.
 EDITORIAL

This year marks the 60th Year of Bilateral

Relations between the Philippines and
South Korea. This began on March 3, 1949 when the
Philippines became the fifth country to recognize the
Republic of Korea. Our countries later became allies in
the 1950's during the Korean war when the Philippines
answered South Korea's call for help to defend itself from
attacks of the North and sent more than 7,000 soldiers of
the Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea (PEFTOK).
To highlight the momentous event, various activities and
festivities in both our countries are planned to celebrate
six decades of partnership, raise mutual awareness
amongst each other's people, culture, and common
history. Though there were times of great challenge
during that history, we are now poised to enter into a
new era of mutual effort to strengthen our ties. Themed
“Nurturing a Meaningful Friendship”, the celebration will
reflect the significance of our diplomatic ties with South
Korea, and our desire to find new ways to bring greater
economic, socio-cultural, and development opportunities
to people of both our countries.
Although economic interests between our nations tend to
garner most of the headlines, labor and migration issues
should not be ignored. There are over 60,000 Filipinos in
South Korea which comprises students, workers, profes-
sionals, missionaries, and spouses of Korean nationals,
while South Koreans are our number one tourists,
foreign students and retirees. A conservative estimate of
100,000 Koreans live in the Philippines at present.
Needless to say, there are pressing issues between the
two countries. South Korean President Lee Myung-bak
committed to properly respond to the ever growing needs
of migrant workers. Likewise, both RP and ROK labor
agencies have confirmed that they will continually hold
working-level consultations on the improvement of the
Employment Permit System (EPS).
However, salient issues such as pre-mature cancel-
lation of contracts, denial of medical and financial
benefits, discrimination and basic rights violations,
as well as the removal of workers' free food and
accommodation are all adding pressure to migrant
workers' worsening situation . Further, domestic
violence against women married to Korean nationals
are on the rise. South Korea is urged to promptly
and sincerely address these issues.
Korea's multicultural policies focus primarily on those
who are residing permanently in Korea, thereby
excluding temporary workers. Most Koreans here
are not so aware of the differences that exist in
various cultures. As the nation is geared toward
becoming a multicultural society, the Korean govern-
ment should open up the education system to intro-
duce as well as broaden students' knowledge of
cultural abundance, giving them practical experience
in dealing with foreigners early in life. The attitudes Building in sustainable and reliable policies for foreign
of Koreans must change. The Philippine government investment in the labor, trade and industry sectors, as
on the other hand, must provide adequate support to well as in other areas of importance to Philippines'
all OFWs through improved social services such as economic diversification, thus bringing further opportu-
retooling programs in order to remain competitive nities for growth. A framework for cooperation that is
and enable them to take full advantage of job oppor- broader than bilateral relations is necessary to tackle
tunities and substantial paying jobs; as well as the issues. In the midst of world financial and eco-
comprehensive reintegration and livelihood services nomic crisis, it is with hope that the leaders of both our
to help retrenched workers and their families with- countries will make all possible efforts to enhance
stand the current global financial crunch. cooperation.
With the maturity of our bilateral ties, both our coun- Both our countries have come too far in building our
tries can afford to be frank and honest with one diplomatic foundation based on reciprocity of mutual
another in terms of improving our relations, and interests. Yet, there is much work to be done. The road
continue to engage in productive talks on issues that has been laid for the future of RP-ROK relations to
affects our relationship. Transparency and uncom- include economic growth, prosperity and opportunities
promising on laws and regulations governing people- for both our people. Despite of the global economic
to-people exchange would send positive signals to crisis, we are all optimistic that the future is bright --
other potential partners in both our countries. bright for the Philippines, bright for Korea.

EDITORIAL STAFF BOARD OF PUBLICATION

Editor-in-Chief: Edward A. Castro Managing Editor: Alden C. Balgos Chairman: Rebenson B. Recaña
Opinion Editor: Rebenson B. Recaña News Editor: Edward A. Castro V-Chairman: Marcelino M. Serdeña
Literary Editor: Amie Sison Cartoonist: Alden C. Balgos Secretary: Rodney Queman
Photojournalist: Felix S. Ferrer Layout Artist: ßLЏħΣ
Board of Publication in:
Circulation Managers: Teofilo C. Camo; Alwyin A. Casiño; Marcelino M. Serdeña III Outreach, Recreation and Religious Program: Alden C. Balgos
Community Correspondents: Billy Vela (Ansan); Anthony Carl Dacones (Kasan) Budget and Finance: Marcelino M. Serdeña III
Valentino de Guzman (Gimhae, Busan); Maria Elena Famor (Ulsan) SULYAPINOY Website Development and Maintenance: Dondave Jabay
Contributor/s: Joan Romero (Literary), the Philippine Embassy Newsletter Sponsorship Program: Annabelle Lopez
Training & Workshop: Ehd G. Villarta Jr.
Adviser: Ma. Regina P. Arquiza Board Consultants: Fr. Alvin B. Parantar, MSP; Prof. Emely Dicolen-Abagat, Ph.D.
Editorial Consultant: Elizer M. Peñaranda FEWA President: Sofonias N. Paragsa

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D I S C L A I M E R For Comments, Suggestions, Contributions

Different opinions are encourage to stimulate
member input and involvement. SULYAPINOY’s
role is to provide information that permits FEWA
members to develop informed opinions on
subjects that will affect their status as migrant
workers and, in some instances, their personal
lives. FEWA does not hold itself responsible for
statements made by any contributor. Statements
or opinions expressed in SULYAPINOY reflect the
views of the author(s) and not the official policy of
FEWA unless so stated.
& Advertisements
Please submit them to our website or to the following emails below:
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* We reserve the right to refuse any submission we deem does not meet our policies and guidelines.
*SULYAPINOY is still in need of writers and community correspondents. Interested may email the
Editorial Staff for more details.
Thank you for your time and interest!

www.sulyapinoy.org SULYAPINOY APRIL 2009 3

 EPS WORKERS GUIDE - PART 1
The Employment Permit System for foreign
workers enables workers from countries
with which the Korean government has concluded an
MOU on sending workers to be legally employed by
companies in Korea which have obtained a permit to
employ foreign workers.
2. Restrictions on changing workplaces
- A foreign worker must work at the workplace where he/
Inbox
she has concluded an employment contract with. The
worker must not leave the workplace to work with a Dear SULYAPINOY,
different employer without justifiable reason/s.

Legal Status of Foreign Workers - Changing workplace is allowed only through the district Magandang araw po. Nais ko pong iparating sa
Foreign workers employed by companies in Korea under Job Center of the MOL in exceptional cases where the inyo na kaming mga Pilipino dito sa Gimpo ay
the EPS enjoy legal employment status (sojourn status: current employment relations cannot be continued due to labis na natutuwa at nasisiyahan sa mga tulong
E-9) and are thus protected just as Koreans are under reasons such as: na naidudulot ng pahayagang ito.
the Labor Standards Act and other labor laws. A. In the event the employer terminates the employ-
- Foreign workers are required to join the Industrial ment contract under justifiable cause or refuses to
Accident Compensation Insurance, National Health renew it; Ako po ay isang EPS worker at malapit nang
Insurance, and National Pension, and are eligible to B. In the event a foreign worker cannot continue to magtapos ang sojourn period nitong darating na
receive benefits from such systems. work due to the suspension of business, closure or June 2009. Ang magandang balita naman po ay
other reasons in which the worker is not responsi- mabibigyan ako ng rehire ng aking among koreano.
- It is illegal for employers to discriminate against foreign ble.
workers by, for example, violating employment contracts C. In the event an employer is restricted from hiring
or dismissing them without justifiable cause. At the same foreign workers or permit has been cancelled due Subalit ako po ay nangangamba. Sa kasalukuyan
time, foreign workers must abide by all Korean laws to violation of labor rights such as physical assault, ay dumaranas hindi lamang ang South Korea ng
related to their employment and actions and will face delayed payment of wages and deteriorating work- economic crisis kundi halos sa lahat ng dako ng
punishment for any violation of the law. ing conditions; or mundo. Ang masaklap na resulta nito ay ang lu-
D. In the event a foreign worker is not fit to continue to
- Foreign workers may work in Korea for up to three work due to an injury but is able to work at another malaking unemployment lalong-lalo na dito sa
years. At the expiry of their sojourn period , they must workplace and other events. Korea.
leave Korea.
Matters to be observed when changing workplaces Ang tanong ko po: May posibilidad ba na maaring
- Foreign workers may not be accompanied by any ma-hold o di kaya ay ma-cancel ang aking rehire
members of their family while they are employed in A. Changing workplaces may be permitted only within
Korea. the allowed scope business type. Manufacturing- dahil sa laganap na unemployment dito lalong-lalo
Manufacturing, Agriculture-Agriculture, etc. How- na sa mga koreano? Napanood ko po kasi sa news
Matters to be observed by Foreign Workers ever, those who work in manufacturing who are na mas bibigyan ng priority ng Korean government
forced to change workplace due to unforeseen ang mga unemployed koreans na mabigyan ng
Before being placed in workplace after entry to Korea circumstances (e.g. employer declared bankruptcy) trabaho.
and wish to get a job in agricultural, livestock,
1. Completing employment training designed for construction, fisheries will be allowed to do so.
foreign workers. B. A foreign worker shall be reported to the Immigra- Mike, 32
- A foreign worker must go to a designated employment tion Office as an illegal resident and will be repatri- Gimpo City
training institute upon his/her entry to Korea and com- ated Immediately is he/she:
plete an employment training course. - Fails to apply for a change (job application) at the dis-
trict Job Center within one month after terminations of Kabayang Mike,
-Employment training will last 20 hours or more his/her previous employment contract;
(between 3 nights 4 days) and will cover the general
understanding about Korea, related laws, and basic - Leaves his/her workplace without permission from the Natutuwa din kami sa mainit na pagtanggap at
knowledge essential to their employment. employer; patuloy na pagsuporta n’yo sa SULYAPINOY.
Umasa kayo na patuloy naming gagawin lahat
2. Medical Checkup - Attempts to change workplace by intentionally neglect- ng aming makakaya upang patuloy kaming
- A foreign worker is required to undergo a medical ing his/her duties in order to move to another workplace makapaghatid sa inyo ng mga balitang kapaki-
checkup during the employment training period. A for- where wages may be higher; pakinabang lalong-lalo na para sa mga kababa-
eign worker who fails to pass the initial checkup will
receive a second checkup which is more rigorous than - Fails to find a job within 2 months from the time the yan nating mga manggagawa dito sa Korea.
the first one. The foreign worker must depart Korea if the application for a change of workplace is filed and thus,
results of the second checkup confirms abnormalities. has not been able to receive a new permit; or Despite of the increasing unemployment, hindi
po basta-bastang ma-cancel o ma-hold ang
3. Joining Insurances - Finds a job him/herself or through friends, co-workers inyong re-employment o rehire. Sa kasaluku-
- A foreign worker must join the Casualty Insurance and and private job placement agencies, instead of through
yan ay wala pa pong panukala o advisory na
the Return Cost Insurance within 15 and 80 days re- the Job Center.
spectively, from the effective date of the employment katulad nito na galing sa Ministry of Labor o
contract. Workers are, in theory, supposed to sign the In principle, changing workplace shall be restricted to a ng Ministry of Justice, o ng Philippine Embassy
insurance agreement during the employment training total of three times. But in the event the three changes dito sa Korea. Siguraduhin mo lamang kabayan
period. were made due to grounds solely accountable to the na bago ka umuwi ay dala-dala mo ang iyong
employer, an additional may be allowed. re-employment certificate na manggagaling sa
Casualty Insurance - is an insurance for death or disabil-
ity of a foreign worker other than occupational accidents. - Renewal of labor contract and extension of sojourn Ministry of Labor at ang iyong Certificate of
period. Confirmation of Visa Issuance o CCVI. Umaasa
Return Cost Insurance - this insurance is designed to kami na naliwanagan po naming kayo hinggil
build up savings to cover ‘going-home’ expenses (air - A foreign worker shall renew his/her labor contract with sa usaping ito. Ipagpatuloy po nyo sana ang
fare) of a foreign worker. The insurance premium will be the employer every year during the period of employ- pag-suporta sa SULYAPINOY diyan sa Gimpo.
deposited automatically to the insurance company from ment. When the worker has renewed the labor contract,
his/her bank account within 80 days after the entry. The he/she must obtain a permit to extend the sojourn period
bank account will be opened during the employment from the Immigration Office with jurisdiction over the Sa mga nais mo pong magtanong o humingi ng
training in Korea. workplace. opinion hinggil sa mga usapin tungkol sa EPS,
ipadala lamang ang mga ito sa SULYAPINOY.
During the period of employment 4. Employment period is only limited to 3 years, ac- Send your inquiries at:
companying family members are not allowed, and
1. Foreign Registration (within 90 days) timely departure is required. editorialstaff@sulyapinoy.org
- A foreign worker placed at a workplace is required to - The allowable period of stay of work in Korea is only to
apply within 90 days and receive a foreigner registration a maximum of 3 years. After the lapse of 3 years, a Or visit our website www.sulyapinoy.org
at an immigration office or a branch office with jurisdic- worker must immediately leave Korea. A foreign worker
tion of the region in which the worker resides . A for- is not allowed to be accompanied by a family member MARAMING SALAMAT PO!
eigner registration form, passport, two photos, and a during employment period.
service charge is imposed during the application. SULYAPINOY
( TO BE CONTINUED)

4 SULYAPINOY APRIL 2009 www.sulyapinoy.org

 LITERARY
Ngayon at Nakaraan Tanda ng Pasasalamat
by Amie Sison MOTHER'S DAY TRIBUTE TO Ms. Nida Romero
by Joan Romero
Sa bansang ating ngayong pinaglilingkuran
Naalala ko ang ating mga nakaraan Sa kanyang sinapupunan ako ay nabuo
Mga sundalo na handang nakipaglaban Sa kanyang kanlungan unti-unting natuto
Para sa inaasam na kanilang kalayaan. Walang ibang may kakayahan nito
Kung ‘di ang aking ina na nag-iisa sa mundo.
Dati pa lamang ay nagsakripisyo na
Nagtiis malayo sa kanilang pamilya
Di inalintana ang hirap na madarama Ang bawat araw ay may kalakip na problema
Dedikasyon ang namayani sa bawat isa. Ang sumubok sa aming mag-ina
Ngunit hindi namin ito inalintana
Pagmamahal sa kapit bansa sa Asya Bagkus pinagtibay pa ang aming paniniwala.
Pagkakaibigan kay gandang biyaya
Makasaysayang taon na tila kay saya
Anumang hadlang ay makakaya.
Sa kabila ng aming pinagdadaanan
Hindi ko siya nakitang umiyak ni minsan
Ekonomiya ng Korea ay sadyang umunlad Kaya ang pangako ko, siya ay paiiyakin
Dahil sa mga manggagawa na ma-abilidad Sa galak at hindi sa suliranin.
Maasahan sa tuwina at hindi maihahalintulad
Sa trabaho, ang lakas ay kumpleto at isasagad. Noon, taunang medalya ang aking alay
Mga gurong Pilipino higit pa sa banyaga
Sa kanyang sakripisyo sa aking buhay
Hindi rin mag papatalo sa pag-aalaga Ngayon, isang bago at simpleng bahay
Nagbubuklod sa kaalaman at pag aruga Tanda ng pasasalamat aking ibibigay.
Sistemang Pilipino lamang ang makakagawa.
Doon, sa aking nalalapit na pag-uwi
Maliit man ang bilang natin dito Ay gagampanan pagiging anak kong muli
Ang mahalaga ay nagkakasundo tayo
Pupunan ang mga nawalay na sandali
Upang maipakita sa bansang Koreano
Iba ang tayong mga Pinoy sa buong mundo. At ipagpapatuloy hanggang sa dulo ng bahaghari.

I finally Understand
An Essay by ßLЏħΣ
No matter how one may try to configure it, we all have
parents. Two of them. One male. One female. Call
them Mom and Dad, Ma and Pa, Nanay and Tatay, or
whatever term you may use. But no matter how the
nicknames are sliced and diced - they're still our par-
ents.
Fortunately for me, mine are both still alive and kicking.
And I'm glad for that since so many of us have already
lost one or both of our parents especially by the time
one reaches the age of this writer, which is now of the
middle-age baby boomer realm.
I'm going through a life situation that is at times stress-
ing and trying, but that's life. And because of this I've
been in more constant contact with my parents for the
last couple of years now. And like clockwork, when I
call home to the Philippines, they're both inevitably on
the phone conversing with me about 'how I'm doing.'
I'm thinking that perhaps my mind was telling me that
my parents and my relationship with both of them is not
something to be overlooked or taken for granted. I
realized that I've had almost three-decade long relation-
ship with my parents and we've all matured and grown
up throughout that time. Our needs, wants, desires,
expectations, demands, and lives have all changed
significantly throughout that time. Especially consider-
ing my aging into my own parenthood and them enter-
ing their own grandparenthood more than five years
ago through the birth of my daughter.
Parents are the role models we have when we grow up.
Birth parents, foster parents, step parents, grand parents.
All adult figures that are involved in our lives throughout
our development over time are the persons that we model
ourselves after whether we're aware of it or not. In some
cases we make good choices who we model after and in
some cases we make not so good choices, or in fact aren't
even given a choice whatsoever.
But throughout the years of growth and my maturity and
personal entry into adulthood alongside my parents, I
too learned that a parent is a human being. And that is
what makes this perfect relationship so imperfect.
There was a time that I was very angry at my parents
for the choices and decisions they made and forced
upon me through my existence into their lives and
having to co-habit the same household with the rest of
my family. After all, these weren't choices that I had any
say in since I was a child, so I did have my compelling
reasons for being angry at them. Or so I thought. But
what turned everything around for me was my realiza-
tion that my parents may have been the imperfect set of
parents to me but that is no reason to hold the relation-
ship they tried to carve out with me against them. They,
like all of us, myself as a parent included, do our best
when we become parents.
My parents did what they did because they honestly
believed it was best for me and my future. I know this
unwaveringly and unequivocally because I'm doing the
same with my young child. Are many of my current
parenting decisions anywhere near close to what my
parents chose for me in certain areas? Not by a long
shot.
You see, parents love their children no matter what the
parent is forced to do in the best interest of the child. I
know this for a fact now that I have relationships of this
type. There is a special bond that is forged when a
human being comes into relationship with a child. A
bond that is not even taken away by death as this bond
lives on in the child, no matter how old that child be-
comes.
So what am I pointing here? I love my parents. I know
my parents love me. We don't agree on everything
because we are human, because we are separate
beings on this planet. But we still have this relationship
that has been forged and strengthened over time into a
solid loving, caring, and thought-filled tie that, not even
time will break.
I love you Ma. I love you Pa. I can say that I appreciate
everything that you have brought into my life. Yes,
everything. The so-called good. And the so-called bad.
Why? Because my life is the way it is because of the
way it was. For a time this included when I was under
your care but nevertheless this contributed to resulting
in me becoming who I am now. And even though I may
have struggles with my personal journey along this path
I still understand that the two of you were the beginning
of that journey and you started carving it out before I
was even born into your arms.
I am a parent now too. And I understand that I'm am
going to be the parent to whom someday my children
will be holding my proverbial 'feet to the fire', regardless
of the decisions I make or don't make about their well-
being. I may have the best intentions for them at all
times and only want the best outcomes for all of them
as they grow into adulthood but that still won't negate
the fact that they won't be holding those choices and
decisions against me someday when they realize that
my choices at times conflicted with their own desires as
humans.
But I can only hope that I am able to stick around here
long enough, like the two of you have so that they are
able to grow into adulthood enough and to see that I
too was an imperfect human being, that I only wanted
what was best for them and that I did the best I could
with what I was given. Hopefully they too will under-
stand that this is not an excuse, just the truth.
I just hope that one day, as a parent, I am able to be
given the same understanding from my children that I
was able to give to you for a fair number of years now.
Thank you for 'sticking around' as long as you have.
Thank you for staying together as a parental unit as
long as you have. Thank you for being my parents and
for the existence you brought me into.
Thank you for making me into the person that I have
become, and even those times I tried to forget about it.
Why? Because it's all good regardless, and I finally
understand.
Thank you Ma. Thank you Pa.
I miss you and I love you both.

www.sulyapinoy.org SULYAPINOY APRIL 2009 5

 SARI-SARI
PROGRAM OF ACTIVITIES
ONE PHILIPPINES EXHIBIT
60th Year Philippines-Korea Bilateral Relations
May 29-31, 2009 at Seoul City Hall Oval
TIME ACTIVITY VENUE
May 29, 2009 (Friday)
14:00 ~ 22:00 Soft Opening of ’One Philippines’ Exhibit City Hall Oval
Instructions:
15:00 Unveiling of the Photo Exhibit of the Expeditionary Force City Hall Oval 1) Fill the white squares with numbers 1 to 9 so that they
to Korea during the War add up to the sums shown in highlighted squares (blue
May 30, 2009 (Saturday) color).
09:00 ~ 22:00 Opening of Exhibition Grounds City Hall Oval 2) A blue square will show one or two numbers
"One Philippines Exhibition"
10:00-11:00 Fiestas Filipinas Grand Parade City Hall Oval
separated by a diagonal line.
10:30 ~ 11:00 Musical Overture: City Hall Oval 3) A number that is above the diagonal line is the sum of
Korea Military Band the row of white squares to its right.
11:00-11:30 Opening Ceremony ‘One Philippines,’ City Hall Oval 4) A number that is below the diagonal line is the sum of
60th Year RP-ROK Bilateral Relations, the column of white squares beneath it.
and 111th Philippine National Day Celebration
15:00-16:00 Fiestas Filipinas Grand Parade Two important rules:
(Route: City Hall Oval- Cheonggyecheon- Gwangkyo- Euiljiro il-ga- City Hall Oval)
19:00-21:00 Cultural Presentations: Seoul City Hall Stage
1) There are no zeroes.
- Fiestas Filipinas Show 2) Do not put the same number in each sum of the row
- National Dance Company of Korea of white squares to its right or column beneath it.
May 31, 2009 (Sunday)
09:00 Opening of the ’One Philippines’ Exhibit City Hall Oval
The most exciting part!!!
09:00 ~ 09:30 Fiestas Filipinas Grand Parade The first person to answer the puzzle correctly will be
Musical Overture: Korea Military Band given a public recognition through SULYAPINOY.
10:30 Welcome Ceremony for Dignitaries City Hall Oval
11:-12:00 Catholic Thanksgiving Mass City Hall Oval
Phone-in your answer to 010-9294-4365 or email @
H.E. Papal Nuncio Osvaldo Padilla sulyap.managing@gmail.com
14:00-15:00 Fiestas Filipinas Grand Parade City Hall Oval
15:00-16:00 Program: POLO and MOL City Hall Oval
Recognition Ceremonies Answer
16:00-18:30 Musical Concert: Filipino Bands City Hall Stage
18:30-20:00 Hymns of Home and Harmony: City Hall Stage Here
The ‘One Philippines’ Concert
Feat. Kris Lawrence of the Philippines and
Park Sang Min of Korea

by Alden Balgos

Answer to Vol. 2 ~ Issue 5

2-Emilio V. Salina 16– Romeo Faltado

5- Ireneo Galindo
6– Roberto Ejes
7– Edwin Ambata
8– Angelito Sinnong
Angelito Binas
9– Marilou Casuga
12– Arnelio Saliva
17– Keneth Pacana
20– Nomar Andrada
23– Edwin Domingo
29– Ismael Calandria
Anaceto Ambi
Ariel Dante Libarnes
Roderick Relojas

6 SULYAPINOY APRIL 2009 www.sulyapinoy.org

 DONORS / SPONSORS
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