*****************************
*** FANS LIVING HISTORY ***
PART 1
" Where we led in the past
and now we lead forward !!! "
by: Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion,Jr.,
A.A., M.D. , C.M.
" I do firmly believe that we
shall be acting wisely should
we record our significant
achievements & events
through the years in our...
FANS LIVING HISTORY !!! "
" To do otherwise, shall be
unwise because these
historical facts shall be
lost forever !!! "
Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion, Jr.,
A.A., M.D. ,C.M.,
Founder & Founding President,
The Filipino Association of
Nova Scotia , Halifax, N.S.,
C A N A D A.
* Come August 09, 2018
(1968-2018), our SOCIETY,
The FILIPINO ASSOCIATION
OF NOVA SCOTIA shall be proudly
celebrating its 50th Anniver-
sary of its foundation day !!!
* As loyal members of our
Society, I am requesting every-
one to please put their creative
thinking cap on and say: " What else
can we accomplish which shall be bene-
ficial to our members within the remain-
ing 6 years time?" Please present your
bright ideas and projects in our forthcoming
meetings. By doing so, we are figura-
tively contributing to the " building
blocks" of our Society's ultimate
prestige! And so, we shall pride our-
selves even more in belonging to the
FANS !!!
* Meanwhile, let's have a flashback of
what we have done in the past.
Dr. Jose P. Rizal, our greatest Philip-
pine National Hero said: " Ang hindi
marunong lumingon sa kanyang
pinangalingan ay hindi makakarating
sa kanyang paroroonan !"
PRE-HISTORY :
1964.DECEMBER.24th
* The Filipino pioneers of Nova Scotia
met informally for the very first time
at the residence of Dr. & Mrs. Jacobo R.
& Erlinda O. Asuncion, Jr. in Halifax,N.S
in celebration of Christmas in Decem-
ber 24, 1964. It was at this time when
the F.A.N.S. was informally organized.
* The pioneer Filipino families in Nova
Scotia were:
(1) Dr. & Mrs. Jacobo R. & Erlinda O.
Asuncion, Jr. ( Halifax) ;
(2) Dr. & Mrs. Jose & Lydia Aquino
( Halifax ) ;
(3) Drs. Sushil & Nellie Sarkar
( Dartmouth ) ;
(4) Dr. & Mrs. Virgilio & Gloria Sanga-
lang ( Halifax ) :
(5) Drs. Araw & Emy Felismino
( Halifax, moved to Newfoundland );
(6) Dr. & Mrs. Gregorio & Siony Sayat
( Halifax, moved to Yarmouth);
(7) Mr. & Mrs. Dominador & Luningning
Libadia ( Halifax );
(8) Dr. & Mrs. Bayani & Cora Ignacio
( Sidney Mines) ;
(9) Dr. & Mrs. Jaime & Neri Belen
( Inverness )
(10) Dr. & Mrs. Jessie & Margie de
Villa (Halifax, moved to Newfoundland ).
. Following the Christmas Holy Mass, we
all enjoyed partaking the Festive Christ-
mas Dinner generously and lavishly
prepared by our significant halves. It
was a memorable gastronomic delight
indeed !
. Every Christmas since then,the Filipinos
continued celebrating together from 1965
to 1967 at the residence of Drs. Sushil
& Nellie Sarkar. The celebration is now
traditional up to 2012 and beyond !
* The FIRST-EVER Philippine Independence
Celebration in Nova Scotia was held in
June 12, 1968 at the Flamingo Restau-
rant & Lounge. Mary Barker of Mail Star
reported : " As Marco Polo was treated
by Kubla Khan, so were the guests of
the Filipino Association of Nova Scotia
who feasted and were entertained in
Halifax in celebration of their Philip-
pine Independence Day !"
* Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion,Jr., the President,
delivered the nationalistic address:
" The Struggle For Philippine Indepen-
dence". He concluded:" Because of the
supreme sacrifices of our heroes, we
are now enjoying freedom." " And now
in Canada, we are the Special Ambas-
sadors of our country- the Philippines!
And should act that way in whatever
we say , do or think !" Thank you!
******************************
HISTORY
1968.AUGUST.09th
Saturday @ 7:35 P.M. A.S.T.
FOUNDATION DAY OF THE
FILIPINO ASSOCIATION
OF NOVA SCOTIA
" Today, August 9th,1968 at precisely
7:35 P.M. A.S.T. will mark the
Foundation Day of The Filipino
Association of Nova Scotia.
"Historically,the Filipino Association of
Nova Scotia is the first-ever Filipino
Organization founded in Halifax.The City
of Halifax is located in a peninsula
within a peninsula in Nova Scotia
CANADA.
"We ,therefore confidently say:
ONE SMALL STEP FOR FILIPINOS
OF THIS GENERATION ; ONE GIANT
STEP FOR FILIPINOS OF GENERATIONS
TO COME ".
" The SOCIETY'S(FANS) main objectives
among others: To foster social and
friendly relations among members ,
promoting mutual understanding
between Filipinos and people of all
nations ; and to promote and preserve
the Filipino cultural heritage".
Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion, Jr.,
A.A., M.D., C.M.
1st President, Founder and
Founding President,
The Filipino Association of
Nova Scotia Halifax, N, S.
C A N A D A.
*************************
The
FILIPINO ASSOCIATION
OF NOVA SCOTIA
* The First Elected Directors
( or Executive Council ) of the
Filipino Association of Nova Scotia
( FANS ) were :
The 1st President, Founder,
Founding President & Chair of
the Board pf Directors:
... Dr. Jacobo Rosales Asuncion, Jr.,
M.D.,C.M.
The First Directors:
Vice-President:
... Dr. Gregorio Lacopia Sayat, M.D.
Secretary & Principal Co-founder :
... Miss Ma. Luisa ( Marissa)
Rosales Asuncion, B. Sc. Com.
Assistant Secretary :
... Miss Toni Jurado
Treasurer :
... Miss Lina Beltran
Assistant Treasurer :
... Mrs. Neri Belen
Business Manager :
... Dr. Roger Guzman, M. D.
Assistant Business Manager :
... Mrs. Luningning Libadia, M.T.
Press Relation Officers:
... Mrs. Gloria Sangalang, M.Sc.Chem.,
Vice-President & PRO Protempore,
FANS.
...Dr. Nellie N. Sarkar ,M.D.
Sgt.at Arms :
... Mr. Roger Escobar
Auditor :
... Miss Nena Ruiz, B.Sc.Com.,
C.M.A.( Ontario Chapter).
--------------
* Chronology of Presidents & Chair of the
Board of Directors during the first two
decades of the FANS ( 1968 to 1988 ):
(1) 1968-1969 :
1st President, Founder, Founding
President & Chair of Board of
Directors
...Dr. Jacobo Rosales Asuncion, Jr.,
A.A.,M.D.,C.M.
(2) 1969-1970:
2nd President & Chair of B.O.D.
... Miss Rosalinda Almaria, R.N.
(3) 1970-1971:
3rd President & Chair of B.O.D.
... Engr. Marc Guzman, B.Sc.Eng.
(4) 1971-1972:
4th President & Chair of B.O.D.
... Mrs. Erlinda Y. Obellos Asuncion,
R.N.
(5) 1972-1973:
5th President & Chair of B.O.D.
... Dr. Emmanuel B. Aquino, M.D.
(6) 1973-1974:
6th President & Chair of B.O.D.
... Dr. Jacobo Rosales Asuncion,Jr.,
A.A.,M.D.,C.M.
(7) 1974-1975:
7th President & Chair of B.O.D.
...Mr. Manuel Lopez,B.Sc.Ed.( I.A. ).
(8) 1975-1976:
8th President & Chair of B.O.D.
...Dr. Emmanuel B. Aquino,M.D.
(9) 1976-1977:
9th President & Chair of B.O.D
...Mrs. Rosalinda Almaria
Hamilton, R.N.
(10) 1977-1978:
10th President & Chair of B.O.D.
... Dr. Gregorio Lacopia
Sayat, M.D., and
Mr. Remy Richard
(11) 1978-1979:
11th President & Chair of B.O.D.
... Mr. Evelio Pimentel
(12) 1979-1980:
12th President & Chair of B.O.D.
... Mr. Gregorio Higa
Bermundo, B.Sc.Com.
(13) 1980-1981:
13th President & Chair of B.O.D.
... Mrs. Erlinda Amoranto
Unite, B.Sc. N.D.
(14) 1981-1982:
14th President & Chair of B.O.D.
... Engr. Jorge Salvador
Sadi, Ass.Mar.Engr.
(15) 1982-1983:
15th President & Chair of B.O.D.
... Mr. Tony Mina
(16) 1983-1984:
16th President & Chair of
B.O.D.
... Mr. Amado Gasmen
Foronda, M.T.
(17) 1984-1986:
17th President & Chair of
B.O.D.
... Mr. Isagani Banda
Garcia, B.Sc.Ed.
-------------------------
* * Highlights of achievements and events
during the two decades of the FANS
( 1968-1988 ) :
* The Original Constitution and
By-Laws of the Filipino Asso-
ciation of Nova Scotia was
ratified as amended & docu-
mented on March 13,1969.
Chairs :
Dr. Rogelio Guzman ,M. D. and
Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion, Jr.M.D.,C.M.
* The " Pasko Sa Nayon " Celebration
was held at the McInnis Hall, Dal-
housie Student Union Building.
(Dr. J.R.Asuncion,Jr./Miss Toni
Jurado ). December 28,1968.
Congratulatory Cablegrams were
received and read by Dr. J.R.Asun-
cion,Jr. prior to the program before
a huge audience :
Consul General Bisnar
Philippine Consulate General
Vancouver, Canada.
General Carlos P. Romulo, Sr.
Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affaires
& Permanent Representative to the
United Nations.
His Excellency
President Ferdinand Marcos
President of the Republic of the Philip-
pines, Manila, Philippines.
"Regodon de Honor", an elegant stately
dance was performed following the
well prepared program.
Among the distinguished guests: Premier
of N.S.,Mayor of Halifax, Dean of Medicine
Dr. Chester Stewart, Head Department of
Anatomy & Neurobiology Dr. Richard
de C.H. Saunders.
The ballroom was decorated beautifuly
like " a tropical paradise!" Every one
danced with "gusto"!
The buffet dinner had a select variety
of Philippine delicacies with a lechon
as center piece.
* Worked on the Committee on Incorpo-
ration :
Dr. Nellie Sarkar &
Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion Jr.
* Participated in Nova Scotia Festival
of the Arts with dance numbers &
music pieces played by our FANS
BAND. Acadia University,Wolfville,
N.S. May,1969.
---------
* Participated in Halifax Natal Day
Parade. Three beautiful" Dalagang
Filipina " on board three decorated
convertibles marked: "Miss Luzon",
" Miss Visayas", and Miss
" Mindanao". August 6,1969.
* Sport Activities increased: Promoted
interests in tennis , golf, bowling
( Engr. Marc Guzman ).
* Financial Status improved through
intense collection of membership fees
and donations. ( Eng. Guzman/ Miss
Claudia Ocampo ).
*!st Major Revision of FANS Constitution
& By-Laws. 1970. Chair: Dr. Jacobo R.
Asuncion Jr.
-----------------
* The FANS Newsletter was published for
the first time. Vol.1 Mrs. Erlinda Asuncion,
President. Editor-in-Chief : Eng. Marc
Guzman, 1970.
*The " Hermano-Hermana System" of
rotating social functions was organized,
and implemented with an H-H Group
leader. ( Mrs. Erlinda Asuncion/
Proposed & Organized by: Dr. Jacobo
R. Asuncion Jr. ). 1970.
* The U.C.F.A.C. National Conference
was held in Toronto, Ontario.
Dr. Jacobo Asuncion Jr. was the elected
delegate. Because of the limited funding
of the Society---Dr. Asuncion paid for
all the expences. July 6,7 &8, 1972.
------------------
* The FANS Newsletter was published.
1973. ( Dr. E. Aquino/Editor-in-Chief
E. Pimentel).
* A Referendum was circulated by mail
for the ADOPTION OF PROPOSED
1973 MAJOR REVISION OF FANS
CONSTITUTION & BY-LAWS
Result: The return cards had
100% compliance, and
VOTES= 100% " YES " !
Action: The 1973 Revision was
adopted by a
UNANIMOUS VOTE !!!
Pres: Dr. Emmanuel Aquino
Chair: Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion,Jr.
* The " Bayanihan System" of mutual
assistanceship was organized &
implemented.
Proposed by: Dr. J. R. Asuncion Jr.
Chair: Engr. E. Guinto
-----------------
* The FANS was incorporated as a
SOCIETY , under the Society's Act,
R.S.N.S. on June 10,1974.
President: Dr. J.R.Asuncion Jr.
Chair: Dr. G.L.Sayat.
*The First Federal Grant from the Minister
of State Resposible for Multiculturalism.
Project: "Filipino Music Revival".
Project Director: Dr. Jacobo
R. Asuncion,Jr.
The project was completed. 1974.
* The FANS BAND was organized
Band Leader: Mr. Ben Espanol
Band Manager: Dr. Jacobo
R. Asuncion,Jr.
The Band had many performance
within the Society, and in Halifax,
Dartmouth, Wolfville, Yarmouth ,1974.
* The FANS NEWSLETTER was at the
peak of its productivity. Editor-in-chief:
Mrs. Gloria B. Sangalang.
Six Issues. ( 1973-1974 ).
* The FANS became an Official Member
of the National organization-The
U.C.F.A.C. September, 1973.
President: Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion, Jr.,M.D.
FANS Delegate to the UCFAC National
National Conference, Ottawa, Ontario.
... Dr. Bayani Ignacio,M.D. Sept. 1973.
* Recipients of UCFAC National Awards:
. Most Outstanding Filipino
in Canada Award
... Dr. Bayani Ignacio, M.D.
Ottawa, Ont.,Sept. 1973.
. Certificate of Distinguished
Service Award
... Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion, Jr.,M.D.
Ottawa, Ont.,Sept. 1973.
. Most Outstanding Filipino
in Canada Award
... Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion,Jr.,M.D.
Calgary, Alberta, July 14, 1974.
* Halifax Natal Day Parade.
Participated with a decorated Float
on board: " Miss Philippines-Nova Scotia".
Themes : "Towards Multiculturalism",
and " Happy Birthday Halifax ! ". 1974.
* Conferences participation :
. United Council of Christians & Jews.
Delegate: Dr. J.R.Asuncion Jr.
Lord Nelson Hotel, Halifax. 1974.
. Indo-Canadian Annual Conference.
Delegate: Dr. J.R.Asuncion Jr.
Holiday Inn, Halifax. !974.
* FANS RADIO PROGRAMS :
As part of the Mulicultural Program,
the FANS regularly telecasts a monthly
radio program. Mrs. Gloria B. Sangalang.
Halifax,N.S., 1973.
* The "FILIPINO NIGHT" CELEBRATION
held at the Baronet Room, Chateau
Halifax, June 12,1974.
. Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion,Jr., spoked
about: " Prime Minister Pierre
Trudeau and Multiculturalism".
. Then,as the MC, he introduced
Senator Dr. Henry Hicks, who was
standing for the Federal Minister of
Multiculturalism. Senator Hicks
spoked about : " Multiculturalism
in Canada".
* Three (3) Major Revisions :
The Original Constitution & By-Laws
of the Filipino Association of Nova
Scotia underwent three major revisions:
1970, 1973, and 1974.
Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion, Jr., was the
Chairperson in all these revisions.
* The FANS Memorandum of Association.
As a pre-requisite a lawyer's advice
is a must. The Society's lawyer and
Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion, Jr., had a
coference. A joint review of the
document revealed that only a few
minor amendments were necessary.
So, after payment of the required fee ,
the FANS became fully INCORPORATED
as a SOCIETY, under the Society's Act
of the Revised Statutes of Nova Scotia.
June 10, 1974.
* THE MAYON VOLCANO with the
PEERLESS CONE !!!
. The FANS participated in the Halifax
Natal Day Parade. August, 1975.
A tropically decorated float with a
huge replica of the MAJESTIC
MAYON VOLCANO with the PEERLESS
CONE was displayed about to erupt.
( by continously feeding with dry ice ).
. Lively Filipino music was being
provided by the FILIPINO BAND on
board. Syncronously dancing with
the live music are attractive ladies
dressed in colorful native attaires.
. The float was exotic, magestic,
spectacular. The MAYON VOLCANO---
is one of a kind: It has THE PEERLESS
CONE IN THE WORLD !!!
* FANS award winners :
. The Most Valuable Basket Ball
Player of the FANS Team:
...Engr. Eddie Guinto, B.Sc.Eng.
1975.
. The FANS Most Outstanding
Leader Award:
... Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion,Jr., M.D.,C.M.
1975.
* The Green Paper on Immigration
and Population.
. The Canada Senate Special Committee
of Parliament on Immigration Policy
was on tour to find out the people's
reactions to the Green Paper. The main
thrust of the Paper was to limit immi-
gration.
. Mr. Cliff-Phillips & Dr. J.R. Asuncion, Jr.
spoked on behalf of FANS. We thanked
Canada for welcoming us during our
time ! However, we indicated our
displeasure to the Green Paper. And,
we emphatically re-emphasized the
importance of the Filipino Professional
Immigrants to an Immigrant Country
such as Canada ...built by immi-
grants !!!
Lord Nelson Hotel, Halifax. June, 1975.
* Multi-Ethnic Christmas Concert.
The FANS in cooperation with MANS
presented " Christmas in many lands."
Queen Elizabeth High School
Auditorium. Halifax, Dec.,1975.
* Filipino Radio Program hosted by
George Barros. Halifax. July,1976.
*The FANS in cooperation with MANS
participated in Interprovincial Cultu-
ral Presentations with Folk Dances,
and Songs in :
St. Mary's University, and
Queen Elizabeth Auditorium. 1977.
* Yarmouth Successfully Fund Raised
for the FILIPINO BASEBALL TEAM !
Chair : Dr. Gregorio L. Sayat, M.D.
* The FANS DANCE TROUPE was chosen
to represent NOVA SCOTIA FOLK ARTS
to the
XI COMMONWEALTH GAMES in
Edmonton, Alberta, CANADA.
June,1977.
Chair: Mrs. Rosalinda A. Hamilton, R.N.
. Two grants were received, and were
used for the TRANSPORTATION
EXPENSES OF THE TROUPE to Edmonton
and back to Halifax.
Pres.: Dr. Gregorio L. Sayat
Vice-Pres. & Chair: Remy Richard
* The FIESTA FILIPINO CELEBRATION.
This was an all-day celebration.
Televised by Dartmouth Cable Vision
Chnnel 10. June 24, 1978.
(a) Saint Mary's University Auditorium. Hosted by : Rosalinda Hamilton,R.N.
-Exhibits & sale of Filipino educa-
tional & cultural material.
- Folk dances presented by children
& adults.
- BF & Citadel Band played Filipino
songs and Folk music.
- Filipino food available at the
FOOD STAND.
(b) "FIESTA FILIPINO NIGHT"
at the Baronet Room, Chateau
Halifax.
Host : Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion,Jr.
Guest Speakers:
Philippine Ambassador
Privado Jimenez
Senator Henry Hicks
-------------------
* Folk Dance Instructions given to
Children by Mrs. Angie Sampang
at the Saint Mary's University
Auditorium. Halifax, 1978.
* FANS Baseball Team organized
at the Chocolate Lake School
Gymnasium. Dec. , 1979.
( Pimentel )
* First Children's Annual Christmas
Party at the Knights of Columbus
Hall, Halifax, 1979.
This was the first children's party
led & participated by children fully.
Entertainment program were pre-
pared by, and led by the Master of
Ceremony--- Master Michael Antonio
O. Asuncion.
* New Year's Eve Dinner & Dance
at the Brightwood Country Club,
Dartmouth. Dec. 30,1979.
FANS BAND- Led by Ben Espanol
provided music for listening and
music for dancing.
(a) Limbo Dance Contest Champion:
--- Mr. Manny Acosta
(b) Disco Dance Exhibition
--- Led by Mrs. Tessie Lopez.
* The First Filipino Week-Long Celebration
of our Philippine Independence
June 23 to 29, 1980.
. TV Coverage provided by Dartmouth
Cable Vision, Channel 10.
. Over-all Coordinator:
Mrs. Lou Heber, R.N.
. Day Time TV Host :
Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion,Jr., M.D.
. Night Time TV Host :
Mrs. Rosalinda A. Hamilton,R.N.
A. Barrio Fiesta @ Cole Harbour.
23 June, 1980.
. Capitan del Barrio:
Engr. Victor Unite, B.Sc.Eng.
. Special Guests:
Ambassador del Rosario,
Philippine Ambassador to Canada.
Minister Joe Fernandez
There were three letsons roasted
over burning charcoals.
B. Craft Displays at the International
Education Center, St. Mary's Univ.
Halifax. June 26-29,1980.
C. Dinner & Dance at the
Brightwood Country Club.
Dartmouth, 30 June 1980.
* " Filipino- Week" Magazine,
published. Editor-in-Chief:
Mr. Amado Foronda. 30 June 1980.
* Weekly Bowling Tournament.( 1981-82)
Bowling Banquet & Award Night.
Penthouse Restaurant, Halifax.
12 June 1982
Chairs: Engr. Jorje Sadi
Mr. Manny Acosta
* " The Sarsuela in Concert "
. The FANS sponsored professional
entertainers such as the above,
to perform cultural presentations
on stage.
. Venue: Mother House Auditorium,
Mount Saint Vincent University.
Halifax. Fall, 1982.
UCFAC National Conference,
Winnipeg, Manitoba,
18,19 and 20 July, 1983.
* Six Delegates to UCFAC :
(1) Mrs. Rosalinda Hamilton, R.N.
Recipient of Most Outstanding
Filipino in Canada Award
& Delegate,1983.
(2) Dr. Emmanuel Aquino, M.D.
Recipient of Leadership Award
& Delegate,1983.
(3) Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion,Jr. M.D.
National Judge, UCFAC National
Award Selection Committee,1983.
(4) Mrs. Erlinda O. Asuncion,R.N.
Former President & Delegate.
(5) Dr. Wesley Heber, Ph.D.,Anthro-
pologist, UCFAC Conference Speaker
& Delegate
(6) Mrs. Lou Heber, R.N., Former Presi-
dent ,MANS & Delegate.
--------------
* The Pilipino Language School.
The School officially opened for :
Fall Term , Sept. 1983, and
Spring Term, 1984.
Chair: Mrs. Erlinda Unite, B.Sc.D.N.
Teachers:
Mrs. Angie Sampang, B.Sc.Ed.
Miss Nora Sangalang,B.Sc.Ed.
Mr. Sonny Garcia,B.Sc.ED.
* Federal Grants were received to
finance the School for Fall Term 1983
and Spring Term 1984.
Chair: Mrs. Erlinda Unite ,B.Sc.D.N.
* Mrs. Erlinda A. Unite and
Mrs. Rosalinda Hamilton partici-
pated as FANS Delegates to UCFAC
National Workshops. Toronto,Ont.
May 4,5, &6, 1984.
* Invitation to Perform "Tinikling".
The FANS was invited at the Chinese
New Year's Banquet through the
Chinese Students Association of Saint
Mary's University...to present the
" Tinikling " dance.
* Cultural Presentations in Yarmouth
& Shelbourne,N.S.
The FANS presented the following:
" Pandanggo sa Ilao ", "Tinikling"
and Fashion Show.
Chair: Florencia Acosta, R.N.
Yarmouth, Shelbourne, N.S.
May 5, & 6, 1984.
** Chronology of Presidents and Chair
of Board of Directors during the
2nd two decades of the FANS
(1986 to 2006 ) :
(18) 1986-1990
18th President & Chair of B.O.D.
Mr. Edwin Sepidoza
(19) 1990-1992
19th President & Chair of B.O.D.
Dr. Nellie Nolido Sarkar, M.D.
(20) 1992-1996
20th President & Chair of B.O.D.
Mr. Armando A.B. Regala,B.Sc.Psyh.
(21) 1996-1998
21st President & Chair of B.O.D.
Ms. Remedios Macapagal Swarez,
B.Sc.P.R.,M.Sc.P.R.
(22) 1998-2000
22nd President & Chair of B.O.D.
Mrs. Angelina Sampang, B.Sc.Ed.
(23) 2000-2004
23rd President & Chair of B.O.D.
Miss Jocelyn Joy S. Croox, B.Sc.Kin.
(24) 2004-2006
24th President & Chair of B.O.D.
Mr. Gerald Bermundo, B.Sc.Com.
(25) 2006-2006
25th President & Chair of B.O.D.
Mr. Nardo Mendoza, B.Sc.F.A.
-------------------
** Highlights of achievements and events
of the FANS during the 2nd two decades
(1986-2006) :
* Public Radio & Television
Presentation.
Professor Ordonez of the University
of the Philippines, a guest of Mount
Saint Vincent University- delivered
a Public Radio & Television lecture.
Halifax, Fall 1986.
* New Forms of Racism.
Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion, Jr. participated
in the National Conference on New Forms
of Racism, on behalf of the FANS. This
conference was sponsored by the
Coalition of Visible Minorities in Canada.
International Education Center, Saint
Mary's University, Halifax. April 27, 28,
& 29, 1986.
* Workshops on Folk Dances For
Teachers.
Mrs. Angie Sampang participated in
these Work Shops on Folk Dancers For
Teachers as the reprsentative of the
FANS. MANS funded this event.
Saskachewan, April 6, 7 & 8, 1986.
* UCFAC National Historical Committee.
Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion, Jr. was elected,
and became a new member of the
UCFAC National Historical Committee.
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. April 20,1986.
*Tourism Industry in the Philippines.
The FANS officers and members met
and socialized with the Visiting Mayors
of the Philippines. The Mayors were the
Visitors of the HRM. Mission: " Ways &
Means of Maximizing Tourism Industry
in the Philippines." President: Mr.
Armando A.B. Regala, B.Sc.Psyh.
T.U.N.S./ Dal. Univ., Halifax,
Fall, 1995.
* Centennial of the Philippine
Independence( 1898-1998).
One hundred years has passed
since President/ General Emilio
Aguinaldo declared Philippine
Independence from Spain.
The Philippine Flag Commission
declared that from henceforth,
the Philippine Flag shall be dis-
played to the right side of the
host's flag. For more details
consult the Commission.
A prepared program was presented.
And " Regodon de Honor" was
performed by Filipino Dancers."
A buffet Dinner & Dance followed.
Special Guests: Lt. Governor of
Nova Scotia, & Mayor of Halifax.
Lord Nelson Hotel, Halifax, N.S
* A Provincial Workshop and
Conference on Racism.
The FANS hosted a Provincial
Workshop & Conference on
Racism, entitled : " Bringing
Down the Barriers of Racism."
A Federal Grant was applied
for and received by the Society.
Chair: Ms. Remedios M. Swarez,
B.Sc.P.R., M.Sc.P.R.
Coordinator:
Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion,Jr., M.D.,C.M.
Keynote Speaker:
Dr. Reynaldo Pagtakhan, M.D.
Member of Parliament
Dr. J.R.Asuncion Jr., the Coordinator,
prepared " A Mini-Manual for the use
of the Group Leaders ", and repro-
duced them.
Dr. Rey Pagtakhan, the Keynote speaker
gave a comprehensive, practical and
inspirational talk on how to survive
" Racism", and end up as the "Winners !".
-------------------------
* Conservation of Philippine Resources.
Filipino Officials from the Department
of Fisheries, and the Department of
Land & Forrests were the visitors of
the Province House. Mission: " To
Study & Implement the Canadian
Methods of conserving the species
of different fish ; and the methods
of conserving lands & forrests." The
FANS officers & members met and
socialized with the officials. This was
followed by a Reception. Dalhousie
University, Halifax. Fall,1996.
------------------
* Visiting Judge of the Philippine
Supreme Court & Chief of Police.
The Judge of the Philippine Supreme
Court from Angeles City & the Chief of
Police visited Halifax- the HRM.
Missions : (1) "Whether or not to legal-
ize prostitution in my area of jurisdiction;
(2) "Ways of protecting the rights of
women in this occupation :
(3) "Methods of enforcing them;
(4) "How to wean these women from
such kind of occupation."
(5) "Public health issues & effective
protection.
** Chronology of Presidents & Chair
of the B.O.D. during the 3rd two
decades of the FANS
(2006-2026) :
*2006-2007
26th President & Chair of the B.O.D.
Mr. Michael Antonio O. Asuncion,
B.A.,B.A.(Hons),D.P.A.,M.P.A.
*2007-2011
27th President & Chair of the B.O.D.
Dr. Elizabeth R. Eustaquio-Domondon,
D.D.S., R.D.H.
*2012-2013
28th President & Chair of the B.O.D.
Mrs. Leni Remolano Van der Jagt, R.N.
*2014-2015
29th President & Chair of the B.O.D.
*2016-2017
30th President & Chair of the B.O.D.
*2018-2019
31st President & Chair of the B.O.D.
*2020-2021 32nd President & Chair of
BOD
*2022-2023 33rd President & Chair of
BOD
*2024-2025 34th President & Chair of
BOD
*2026-2027 35th President & Chair of
BOD
------------------------------------------
**Highlights of the Achievements and
events of the 3rd two decades
of the FANS (2006 to 2026 ).
* New Year's Eve Dinner & Dance,
at the Delta Halifax. Dec. 31,2006
This event, held at the Baronet
Room was well attended. The
Presidency was turned over from
Mr. Nardo Mendoza ( Interim Pres.)
to Mr. Michael A. Asuncion.
The dance floor was always full
of eager & graceful Ballroom Dancers,
interrupted only by prizes!
Dinner Buffet Style with Roasted
Hip of Beef & many others.
* The six(6) priorities and achievements of
Mr. Michael Antonio O. Asuncion, M.P.A.
He urged the next President to
continue with this emphasis.
* (1) In business meetings order were
achieved by using the Rules of Order:
(a) Robert's Rules of Order
Newly Revised IN BRIEF
by Henry M. Robert III, et al.
1st / 2nd Edition.
Example: A member who wish to
bring a business to the assembly,
after obtaining the floor directs
the comment to the chair: Makes
a "motion", "seconded",
"discussion" and finally a "vote".
No time is wasted! Consequently,
meetings are efficient,effective,
and productive.
(b) Robert's Rules of Order
Newly Revised
by Henry M. Robert III,et al.
10th / 11th Edition.
This is used as a Reference
Text : To further one's knouledge
and in the event of conflict or
controversy in the proper use of
Parliamentary Rules.
* (2) Conflict Resolution. The President
dealt with issues honestly and openly.
When issues were controversial, he
kept his discussion focused on areas
of agreement & encouraged frank
discussion of different view points.
* (3) Financial Accountability.
The President worked closely with
Board of Directors,and was particularly
interested when some articles of the
By-Laws needed revision to improve
financial accountability and other
modus operandi of the Society.
* (4) "Balitang Bayan".
FANS Newsletter was published in
2007. Managing Editor: Michael A.
Asuncion.
The newsletter was a direct response
to the desire of members to know all
things Filipino-Canadian in Nova Scotia
and an update on new developments.
* (5) Review Engagement Report.
Our books were subjected to a review
engagement report for the year 2006,
by a Chartered Accountant. This is a
By-Law requirement.
* (6) FANS Collaborated with Embassy of
the Republic of the Philippines for an
Ambassador's Information Session.
This was very well attended and highly
successful information session with his
Excellency Ambassador Jose Brillantes.
The Ambassador commented on the
functions of the Philippine Embassy and
updated us on the new developments
overseas & in our mother country.
The event focused on how we can all
assist overseas Filipino Workers (OFW).
The significant increase of Filipino immi-
gration to NS made these social events
more significant. The newest members
of Society provided us what it means to
be Pinoy. We in turn assist themin making
connections & adopt to life in Canada while
retaining a strong Pinoy identity & enhan-
cing old ties back home.
Michael Asuncion's admonition:
"Finally, I would like to leave you with
thoughts which are partly based on my
two years as your President. There is a
perception that we must be more unified.
Obviously a lot can be achieved when we
are all pulling in the same direction.
The Filipino Community,however,is not
always homogeneous. We all have different
background,expeiences and ideas. Though
we may have diverse views,however,we
live in a country where diversity is truly
embraced and indeed celebrated. Yet in
many ways, we all want the same things.
A better life for ourselves and our children
and for loved ones back home. Self-
fulfillment and a sense of community.
Pride in our heritage, both Filipino and
Canadian. In this sense, we are all truly
Hermano-Hermana."
Michael Antonio O. Asuncion, M.P.A.
* Fund Raiser for the Capital Project :
The FCCC.
The idea of owning a piece of real
estate with a building owned by us...
started as a dream, the FANS
organizers made plans for it and
attempted to chase the dream.
The planners sold car ruffle tickets
for $20.00 each in : Halifax Shopping
Center, Dartmouth Penhorn Mall
& in Bedford Sunny Side Mall. The
Two principal volunteers were
Mrs. Erlinda O. Asuncion and Mrs.
Nora Ramos, et al. who spent
countless amount of hours,weeks
and months. There were some
amount of successes, but it was
not considered adequate for the
project to proceed.
In the final analysis,and after
examining all the data with
professional eyes, the planners
concluded that: Our Society was
not ready for such a huge project:
The Filipino Community Cultural
Center (FCCC).
*COMMUNITY FORUM with THE
PHILIPPINE AMBASSADOR and
A PANEL OF SPEAKERS
* A Two-Year Plan of Activities was
developed cooperatively by The
Board of Directors & the President,
Dr. Elizabeth Eustaquio-Domondon.
This was developed in response to
the question: "What's in it for Active
Members ?"
* Introduced New and Varied Activities
for Active Members. And the Society
membership increased by six (6) times!
This was of course coupled with
intence collection.
* E-Mail Messages followed by
Phone Calls:
This combined method was most
effective and indeed improved the
dssimination of information re:
calling meetings. Ms. Imelda
Montinola & Ms. Marlene Melanson
did these communications effectively.
* New Year's Eve Dinner & Dance
at the Halifax Marriot's Harbour
Front Hotel. 31/12/2011.
In the " Spirit of Giving Back to
Members", the Society absorbed
part of the cost of the event. Buffet
Dinner with Hip of Beef was the main
Course.
* Secured Liability Insurance for the
FANS Year 2011 - To meet venue
events requirement: $500.00
* Acquired party necessities such as
Coffee Maker, Tea Maker, Mirror Balls
for lighting and three coffee tables.
* Canadian Red Cross Donation for the
Southern Philippines Calamity-flood
victims: $1,000.00
* Donation to a " Kababayan", a former
cruise ship employee ( non-member ),
who was afflicted with " Hodgekin's
Lymphoma (Cancer )." Our Society
helped him with a donation of $500.00
before going home to the Philippines.
* PHILIPPINE EMBASSY OUT-REACH
CONSULAR OFFICE IN HALIFAX ,N.S.
2009, 2011, & 2012 :
The F.A.N.S. in partnership with the
PHILIPPINE EMBASSY in Ottawa
hosted the Out-reach Consular Office
in Halifax.
Consular services as Passport Renewal,
Granting of Double Citizenship & Police
Clearance were available in Halifax
intead of going into a huge expense
on the part of the applicant concerned.
Thanks to Mrs. Gloria Hussain, R.N. for
providing the venue in 2009 & 2011.
In 2012, the World Trade & Convention
Center (WTCC) was the venue. Thanks
to Dr. Elizabeth Eustaquio-Domondon,
D.D.S., R.D.H. for organizing & coordina-
ting these events , and to the volunteers
who spent their time unselfishly.
* " Fiesta Filipino Event ". 11/09/2011
Introducing Leander Mendoza &
Nadia Moore.
Venue: St. Agnes Auditorium,Halifax.
The FANS had a successful and a well
attended " Fiesta Filipino Event." This
event displayed our Filipino talents &
opened more avenue for future FANS
events.
-------------------------------------
2012.APRIL.04
* The Filipino Community Forum
With the Philippine Ambassador
His Excellency,Honorable Leslie Gatan,
Consular Officials & other distingueshed
guests participated in the community
forum at the St. John the Baptist Parish
Center,Halifax.
Speakers :
. Ambassador Leslie B. Gatan.
His remarks gave an overview of
the Embassy Functions & Programs.
He also updated us about recent
developments in the homeland.
. Ms. Elizabeth Mills, Executive Director,
Office of N.S. Immigration. Recent
developments.
. Ms. Lynn Hartly, Director of Labour
Standards, Dept. of Labour Standards,
Dept. of Labour & Advanced Education,
Nova Scotia.
. Mr. Andrew Leverman, Immigration
settlement & Integration Services
( ISIS ).
. Mr. J. Ramon Gonzales , Country
Development Manager for
Philippines- of Western Union
Canada. Spoke about remitances.
Open Forum : Many quetions were
asked by the attendees to the panel
of speakers re: Temporary and
skilled workers. Definitive answers
will be deffered until after the Nova
Scotia Labour Standards & Fee Sche-
dules & Policies take effect.
---------------------------------
2012.APRIL
* FANS MAIL
New Edition: Vol. I No. I
April, 2012.
Managing Editor: Amado G. Foronda,M.T.
Web Master: Gerald Bermundo,B.Sc.Com
Dr. Jacobo R. Asuncion,Jr.,M.D.
Leni R. Van der Jagt,R.N.
Imelda Muntinola,B.Sc.Com
Rosalinda Hamilton,R.N.
Dr. Elizabeth Eustaquio- Domondon,
D.D.S.,R.D.H.
--------------------------------
2012.APRIL.15
* Easter Celebration at the St.John the
Baptist Hall.
Children & adult games were played
and enjoyed by everyone.
Buffet Dinner consisted of a variety of
delicious food with succulent & savoury
Roasted Turkey as the center piece
