Volume 1 Issue 4 February 2008

H yehwadong, Seoul — Delegates from

different countries and migrant centers
participated in the annual celebration of Migrants’
Day last Feb. 3 at Tongsong Auditorium.
The event aimed to promote the spirit of unity
and unwavering resilience of migrant workers and
to showcase pageantry of diverse culture of our
neighbors in the Asia-Pacific region.
The Archdiocesan Pastoral Labor Center
(APLC) of Seoul welcomed all participants and
guests. APLC is committed in the promotion of social
justice, peace and human rights. It also advocates
measures and campaigns against unfair labor poli-
cies and racial discrimination.
In the cultural presentation, the delegates from
Korea, Mongolia, Vietnam, Mexico, Peru, China,
Thailand, Ecuador, Kazakhstan and The Philippines
showed off talents and pageantry.
turn to page 2

by Elizer Penaranda

J ongno-gu, Seoul—Philippine
Edu-Culture Center (PECC)
arranged a tie-up with the
Filipino EPS Workers Association
(FEWA) last Jan. 17.
Loreto Agustin (FEWA President)
and Rebenson Recana
Photo in courtesy of Edward Castro (SULYAPINOY EIC) with the mem-
Maria Grace Boiser holding the image of Sto. Nino with the HFCC bers of the organization and editorial
co-volunteers during their cultural presentation. staff visited the Philippine Korean
Cultural House where the Philippine
Edu-Culture Center is currently
based in. Hyung Jong Yoo, chief
by Elizer Penaranda officer of the cultural house wel-
comed the group.
Hyung Jong Yoo, chief officer of PKCH (standing - 3rd from right) poses with FEWA
H yehwadong, Seoul - Overseas Workers Welfare
Administration (OWWA) Senior Welfare Officer
Elizabeth Marie R. Estrada fell into tears as she gave
turn to page 2
adviser, officers, and members at the Philippine Korean Cultural House.

thanks to the Filipino Catholic Community at the St. Bene-

dict Church last Feb.10.
Welfare Officer Estrada received recognitions from the by Edward Castro
Filipino EPS Workers Association (FEWA) and
Hyehwadong Filipino Catholic Community (HFCC) for her
invaluable service to the Filipino migrant workers in South
Korea since June 1, 2006.
C heong-ju City, Feb. 7 —
Officers and members of the
Filipino EPS Workers Association
In 1984, she started her public office in OWWA and (FEWA) attended the general assem-
assumed positions in the respective years of service: bly of the Human Rights Welfare
Organization- Filipino Community
turn to page 2
(HRWOFC) in its effort to promote
unity and contribute towards maintain-
ing friendship and partnership among
Filipino organizations of Filipino mi-
by Sofonias Paragsa
grant workers in different cities and
H waseong-si, Gyeonggi-do — Another Filipino
migrant worker was hurt in a work-related acci-
dent last Jan.14.
provinces of Korea.
Hosted by HRWOFC officers and
members, guests from different or-
Francisco Espiritu, 38, single a native of Marilao Bula- ganizations gathered at Kabayan
can, employed as a painter, was seriously injured in an Function Hall to partake in the occa-
accident that happened in his factory at around 7 p.m. sion that is subsequently combined
when a steel block skidded and went rolling over him with the commemoration of Seollal -
injuring both his legs and spinal column. Korean Lunar New Year. HRWOF Assembly: Ana Marie Adante, HRWOFC President (left) and Frank-
With the immediate aid from his employer, Francisco HRWOFC, a non-profit and non- lin Caturla HRWOFC Vice-President (right) presented the SULYAPINOY
governmental organization is dedi- newsletter to all participants in support to FEWA’s donation program cam-
was immediately rushed to the emergency room of Hwa- paign “Help us to Help you: Share Now!”
seong Jung Ang General Hospital for cated to the protection of human rights turn to page 2
turn to page 2
NEWS/SPORTS
Weloff Estrada ...
1998-2000, Welfare Officer Designate, Philippine
Embassy in Japan; 2001-2004, Head Executive
Assistant, Office of the Administrator; and 2004-
2006, Director II, OWWA Regional Office-NCR.
H yehwa-dong, Seoul –
SAGAD Team picked up
their first title with a well-fought
She left Korea last Feb. 16 to serve the Fili-
pino workers as labor attaché in Taichung, Taiwan.
and pulsating 64-58 win over
MINDORO team in the final of the
10th Hyehwadong Basketball Filipino Worker Hurts ...
Conference held at the Bomun-
therapy and medication. Accident and health insur-
dong Basketball Court last Febru-
ances have helped to subsidize his hospital and
ary 3.
medication expenses.
Trailing through the first half,
the SAGADos – with their first As of the moment, he is well recuperating after
appearance in this tournament - following the rehabilitation therapy program accus-
upped the tempo four minutes tomed to him by his surgeons. His older sister from
remaining of the 2nd half to run the Philippines is expected to arrive to assist him
away with the championship. during his recovery.
Frt. Moises Robert T. Olavides,
MSP, chairman of the basketball
conference and Aiko, HFCC
PECC to Support ...
chairman for sports and recreation Also, Prof. Emely Dicolen-Abagat conducted the
committee, presented the winners' Bangs Musngi of SAGAD Team driving into basket after escaping the zone Leadership Training among FEWA officers and
defense of the MINDOROs while his teammate Arnold is screening the MINDORO
trophy in the presence of Fr. Alvin center tower. members in the said cultural house.
B. Parantar, MSP, chaplain of the Prior to the arrangement, FEWA officials wel-
Archdiocesan Pastoral Center for Filipino Migrants, The Scores: comed the group as represented by Hyung Jong
and Mr. Edgar Balista, HFCC President. Yoo, chief officer of the Philippine Korean Cultural
After the awarding ceremony, Fr. Alvin delivered SAGAD VS MINDORO: House. Together with some members of the Seoul
his inspirational message to all organizers, sponsors, 1st half: 18 - 23 2nd half: 45 - 35 Bar Association (SBA), Yoo visited Woori Bank
and participants of the 10th Basketball Conference. where the FEWA is headquartered. FEWA officials
He congratulated the winners and emphasized the ILONGGO VS ISABELA: headed by Loreto Agustin and Sofonias Paragsa
deeper meaning of victory and success. “Victory and introduced some work-related problems of the EPS
1st half: 20 - 20 2nd half: 48 - 45
success do not only mean receiving trophy and workers. The two have agreed on working hand in
award, and becoming famous as champion. What Other awards: hand to curb the increasing number of labor prob-
matters most is learning the important values that will lems of the EPS workers.
make us a better community and champions in the Most Valuable Player: “It aims to function as the hub of cultural ex-
larger tournament that we call life” he said. Bangs Musngi - Received cash and trophy change between Korean and Philippine by having
He also affirmed the wisdom of Fr. Glenn, the 3-Point Shoot Out Winner: the two countries understand their cultures mutually
former HFCC chaplain for organizing the year-round Jun Tapaone - Received cash and trophy and narrowing the gap through providing informa-
basketball tournament. “I support the objectives of tion on culture, tourism and arts of Philippine to
this project. For us organizers, this tournament is not Best Player of the Conference: Bryan Daracan Korea and developing various educational and
simply about winning the game; it is also about the Best Coach of the Conference: Romeo Saria experiential programs (etiquette, basic law, lan-
promotion of our physical well-being, sportsmanship, Rookie of the Conference: Jeff Balderama guage and culture) so that Filipinos staying in Korea
healthy competition, and positive diversion” he Best Defensive Player: Edwin Dacusin can adapt themselves to Korean culture,” Mr. Yoo
added. Most Improved Player of the Conf.: Louie Gitang said .
In a short interview conducted by Rebenson Tapal King of the Conference: Floyd Reyes More so, PECC provides free legal services and
Recaña, Editor in Chief of SULYAPINOY and Sofo- King of the Board: Jun Servania job support on every second Sunday of the month
nias Paragsa, SULYAPINOY Cameraman, Fr. Alvin and free eye service by appointment basis for a
told SULYAPINOY that the 11th conference is ex- Committee Choice Award: Richard Serrano number of Filipinos residing in Seoul and nearby
pected to start in April of this year. Changes of Best Sportsmanship Team of the Conf.: South Life provinces.
specific committee assignments, number of partici- Most Disciplined Team of the Conf.: Yongsan Team
pant teams, and sponsors are also expected. He also Mythical Five: FEWA Visits ...
emphasized the proper maintenance of the basket- 1 - Mark Garcia of Filipino migrants here in South Korea. It investi-
ball court to ensure its continuous and comfortable 2 - Majun Trinañes gates and exposes human rights violations and
benefits offered to the conference. 3 - Arnold Manalastas holds abusers liable to the law. HRWOFC also
In the earlier game, Ilonggo Team beat the Isabela 4 - Melvin Gonzales supports Filipino migrants who are being perse-
Team with a thrilling win 68-65 to clinch the 3rd placer 5 - Anthony Magallones cuted from their work and in need of financial assis-
award while dropping the Isabela Team to 4th placer.
tance or temporary shelter.
Shortly after arriving at the venue, the FEWA
International Delegates Join Migrants’ Day... delegation listened as Ana Marie Adante, HRWOFC
President, and Franklin Caturla, HRWOFC Vice-
Also, the annual singing competition paved way Ilaw, Igorot and Sinulog with the live rendition of the President addressed the assembly and presented
to highlight the said event. Once again, The Philip- song “Kalesa”. an overview of the organizations planned activities
pines captured the grand prize while Thailand won
Prof. Emely Dicolen-Abagat, chairperson of the for 2008, along with current membership updates
the first runner-up and Vietnam for the second-
HFCC Education Committee and Bro. Allan Rodri- and parameters.
runner-up awards.
guez, HFCC Secretary and member of El Shaddai In addition, HRWOFC donated KW 166,000 won
HFCC Chorale with the Youth Group climaxed Prayer Partners hosted the event in line with the in support to FEWA’s “Help us to Help you: Share
the occasion as they performed the Philippine folk Lunar New Year celebration. Now!” campaign for the continual printing of
dances such as Singkil, Maglalatik, Pandanggo sa SULYAPINOY.

2 SULYAPINOY FEBRUARY 2008

 EDITORIAL

R ecently, after the new guidelines on direct hiring of

Filipinos which by foreign employers – the so called
POEA MC-04 Policy set by Philippine Overseas Employment
Administration took effect last January 15, had received different
criticisms and protests from OFWs around the world. And in fact,
due to the mounting protests and calls for scrapping, on February
14, almost a month after its implementation, the POEA decided to
put on hold the said policy to further discuss the possible modifi-
cations in the memorandum as instructed by President Gloria
Macapagal Arroyo.
The current suspension of MC-04 Policy shows a positive sign
that the POEA and the Arroyo administration are listening to the
cries of our OFWs but the suspension is not enough. The unity of
our Filipino migrant workers will not stop unless MC-04 is
scrapped or revoked.
What is POEA MC-04 Policy? What are its objectives and
benefits to the Filipino migrant workers? Why is it that our OFWs
around the world have shown their strong protest against it?
According to the detailed guidelines posted at DOLE website
on January 19, 2008, the Philippine Overseas Employment Ad-
ministration’s Memorandum Circular No. 4 (POEA MC-04) that
was approved by the POEA board on December 18, 2007 requires
foreign employers directly hiring Filipino workers to post a repa-
triation bond of $5,000 plus a performance bond of $3,000 or
equivalent to the worker’s three months salary. The new guide-
lines also required foreign employer to provide with medical
insurance to the worker at an amount equivalent to those provided to nationals of the host country.
The repatriation bond shall guarantee the actual cost of repatriation of remains of directly hired OFW following death from any cause, and actual cost incurred for
repatriation from other causes such as violation or non-compliance with the contract among others. The performance bond shall guarantee payment of the employee's
salary for the duration of the employment contract. The bond shall be secured from any Philippine bonding companies. Premiums for the bonds shall be paid by the
employer.
Furthermore, if employers do not want to comply with the bonding and insurance requirements or with the standard employment contract will not be allowed to hire
OFWs directly. But they may hire thru licensed placement agencies which are willing to assume responsibilities over the employees, including payment of salaries and
other employment benefits. In this case, POEA MC-04 Policy seriously puts Filipino workers under the control of recruitment agencies and makes them vulnerable to
overcharging and other malpractices of unscrupulous recruitment agencies. It also belies the fact that recruitment agencies are not there to protect OFWs but are in fact
accessories to, and even promoter of many cases of abuse.
On the same website, DOLE Secretary and POEA Board Chairman Arturo Brion had stressed that the adoption of a stricter policy on direct hiring is aimed to strengthen
the protection mechanisms for the OFWs. He further explained that the policy was meant to reinforce the provision of the Philippine Labor Code that prohibits direct hiring
of Filipino workers, except for selected employers such as diplomats, heads of international organizations and other employers as may be approved by the secretary of
labor and employment. In this case, POEA MC-04 Policy puts more severe restrictions for name-hired or direct-hired OFWs.
Jobseeker sectors that will be directly affected in this new policy are those applicants and workers under household services, ITs, Bankers, and other skilled category
jobseekers. In South Korea, all future workers who will be directly hired under E-7 type visa, household services visa, and other professional jobs related visa will be
directly affected.
Protecting OFWs who currently play as the living heroes of our country is the government’s main job. No question about that. It is its duty to create effective laws and
policies that would sincerely provide benefits and welfare of all Filipino migrant workers. During the creation and approval of POEA MC-04 policy, they should have
considered the negative outcome of this policy to all present and future OFWs. They should have realized that upon imposing the expensive bond payments may push
foreign employers to recruit workers from other countries that do not impose bond payments, which will definitely result to loss of jobs and employment opportunities
abroad.
Although the bond payments will be shouldered by the foreign employers but the big chances is that they shall also recoup recruitment costs from OFWs themselves,
either through maximum exploitation of their labor or through direct deductions from their salaries.
For many OFWs, the said policy can be viewed as “ANTI-OFW” because it is not meant to protect Filipino migrant workers as it is squeezing more money from them in
the name of protecting their rights. This policy could be another moneymaking venture of the current opportunist and corrupt government officials to further render OFWs
as milking cows for their never ending greedy pockets.
Our OFWs do not need MC-04 Policy to protect their welfare, what they need are those embassy officials who have experience in labor-crisis management that would
not compromise their rights especially of those having been economically, physically and sexually abused.

We need the real “protection mechanism”, not the shameless phrase called “protection racket”.

EDITORIAL
STAFF
Editor-in-Chief: Rebenson B. Recaña Managing Editor: Dondave Jabay
News Editor: Edward A. Castro Feature Editor: Elizer M. Peñaranda SULYAPINOY BOARD OF PUBLICATION
Literary Editor: Amie Sison Cartoonist: Alden C. Balgos
Board of Publication Chairman: Rebenson B. Recaña
Circulation Manager: Alwyin A. Casiño Layout: blythe Board of Publication V-Chairman: Dondave Jabay
Contributors: Hong Hee-Chang, Angela, Jun Bagman, Sofonias Paragsa
Board of Publication in:
Adviser: Maria Regina P. Arquiza Consultant: Fr. Alvin Parantar, MSP Sponsorship and Marketing Program: Loreto H. Agustin
Budget and Finance: Sofonias N.Paragsa
Office Address: 115-9 Songbuk-gu, Songbuk-dong, Seoul Korea Newsletter Binding/Distribution & Trainings/Workshops : Alwyin Casiño
Editorial Address: OK AIRTEL VISION ASIA, Vision Bldg. # 85-3, Hyehwa-dong, SULYAPINOY Website Development and Maintenance: Christian Robles
Jongno-gu, Seoul, Korea (in front of the Hyehwa-dong Catholic Outreach, Recreation and Religious Program: Alden C. Balgos
Church, Line 4 (Blue) Exit # 1 Tel. No. 02-744-0066

SULYAPINOY FEBRUARY 2008 3

 FEATURES
BITTERSWEET
by Maria Regina P. Arquiza
I sn’t it ironic that the sweetest words in which a person likes to hear from
others are also considered the most difficult words to say?
“I love you.”
Why is it so difficult to say this sentence? Why it feels so good to hear this
sentence?
Saying or hearing these words might not be important to some people, but
they have the power to touch and change lives.
Mushy, as what people always say when love is being talked about. How-
ever, there is a season that highlights the theme of love and this time gener-
ates various feelings such as sadness, happiness, hatred, contentment, pain,
excitement, nostalgia, etc. Some people are waiting and some are ignoring,
but February can’t be avoided. This month is usually regarded as the month
of love. Lovers or couples originally consider the 14th day as the time for
them to express their love for each other. On the other hand, the very es-
sence of the celebration is rooted in the principle of love which means that this is also a day for everyone.
Despite the vagueness of the concept of love, it is something that has always been evident in so many
aspects of human life. Millions of examples can be given to prove how strong it is and how far can it go.
The perfect example in Korea of how strong love is can be seen in the sacrifices being done by the Filipino
migrant workers for their families. Working abroad isn’t as easy as what other people think. The very fact that a
certain individual needs to be away from home just to earn money for his family clearly defines love in its deep-
est essence. Working for six or seven days per week, the freezing coldness during the winter season, the
humidity during summer, years of not being able to buy a plane ticket going to the Philippines, violence,
abuses, discrimination, not being paid fairly, and a lot more are the things that a lot of Filipinos need to face in
exchange of their love for their families.
Sometimes it’s sad to think that there are several instances that people should suffer because of love, but
maybe it actually opens the opportunity for its genuine realization.
Valentine’s season might just be an ordinary day to so many people, but this is a very good opportunity to
at least remind others how much love and care we have for them. Even if it takes a lot of courage to tell others
A Journey of Love
by Elizer Penaranda
“T o love and be loved is to feel the sun from both
sides.”
Among the couples of international marriages in Korea,
there is one who has become known and special to every
Filipino: Jae-gi Kim and Virginia Pereda. Jae-gi who is
popularly known to many as Mr. Kim, a Korean and a
graduate of B.S. Management in Japan and Virginia, a
Filipina and a graduate of B.S. Accountancy in the Philip-
pine School of Business Administration (PSBA). Let’s find
out how these two different individuals from two different
worlds went through as we passionately wander with
them in their journey.
“ But not anymore for we have proven our love as it
becomes stronger through the years since we get
married on Oct. 6, 1995 at Manila City Hall,” Virgie
added.
“Honestly, we’ve made some adjustments when it
comes to culture but it was not as big as expected
for we Koreans are used in working so fast, ”Mr.
Kim shared.
For 10 years of living together in the Philippines
they were blessed with a son, Sarang, who was
born in 1996. They lived so happily as a family until
problems concerning finances and business ven-
tures obliged them to go to Mr. Kim’s homeland,
South Korea.
Love is Shared...
“In Korea , it was a struggle in the beginning for we
need to do some adjustments but our Lord is so
good for providing us good opportunities to work
together in OK AIRTEL VISION ASIA and helping
our fellow Filipinos at the same time, ”Mr. Kim said.
Mr. Kim used to volunteer as a social worker for he
became a translator for the Korean community in
Korean Embassy, National Bureau of Investigation
(NBI), Immigration and Camp Crame in the Philip-
pines.
However, Virgie commented on the issues dealing
with international marriages. Many of these women
compromised with the agreement of getting married
for money sakes. They expected these well-
groomed Koreans are very rich here in Korea which
they don’t know these men live in the provinces and
worked in the farms who need women to be their
wives and co-workers too. Pity for these women
who indulge on this so- called’ human trafficking’,
for they do not know what the consequences will be.
Today, they are enjoying their stay and work here
while Sarang is doing well on his studies with “flying
colors” and soon to enter middle school. They have
plans of going back to the Philippines when they
retire and enjoy the good times there once again.
They have traveled for quite sometime to prove
their love for the family and now it becomes wider
as they help our fellow Overseas Filipino Workers
who keep in fighting for work in Korea and for their
loved ones miles away back home.

For Comments, Suggestions,

Love Finds its Way...
Contributions & Advertisements
Mr. Kim worked for Korean Airlines at Gimpo International Airport and he traveled other countries like Japan
and the Philippines as well in 1992. While he was assigned in the travel agency in the Philippines, he met Please submit them to the ff. emails below:
Virginia and noticed the meekness on her face and concluded she was very kind and positive in life. He asked
News: sulyap_news@hotmail.com
for her schedule and frequently visits the Philippines just to see her. He was so assertive at that time for no
Feature: sulyap_feature@hotmail.com
one would take Virgie away from him.
Sports: sulyap_sports@hotmail.com
“I remember our first date was in Pizza Hut. Since then we visited places like Luneta Park so that we could Literary: sulyap_literary@hotmail.com
enjoy each other’s company,” Mr. Kim said. Chief Editor: sulyap_chiefeditor@hotmail.com
Managing Editor: sulyap_managing@hotmail.com
Love Conquers All...
• We reserve the right to refuse any submission
On the early stage in every relationship, problems are always expected.
we deem does not meet our policies and
“In our case since we’re both foreigner for each other, language was never a problem. I took up English les- guidelines.
sons in the University of the Philippines-Diliman. However, we had a problem on her sister who kept spying on • SULYAPINOY is still in need of writers. Aspi-
me. Her sister didn’t trust my good intention to her for I understand the reason,” he mentioned. rants may email the Chief Editor for more
details.
Another problem happened when his manager in the travel agency he worked for reported him to the police Thank you for your time and interest!
officers and put him under investigation to know his whereabouts while he was often visiting her.

4 SULYAPINOY FEBRUARY 2008

 FEATURES / LABOR UPDATES
Knowing Monthly Tax Withholding SIMPLIFIED TAX WITHHOLDING TABLE
of South Korea Monthly Wage&Salary Monthly Wage&Salary
(in thousand won) (in thousand won) Equivalent
Simplified by: Dondave Jabay Equivalent Tax
Tax
(non-taxable income excluded) Withholding (non-taxable income excluded)
Withholding
W hen you are employed and being paid a salary income, you are
obliged to pay your personal income tax to the Korean govern-
ment. The income tax shall be monthly withheld by your employer which is
over
0
less than
870 0
over
1,165
less than
1,170 4,630
to be deducted from your monthly salary. 870 875 40 1,170 1,175 4,580
An employer paying wage and salary income must deduct income tax 875 880 120 1,175 1,180 4,670
monthly from the earnings of their employees based on Simplified Tax 880 885 210 1,180 1,185 4,760
Withholding Table issued by National Tax Service (NTS) and the total 885 890 180 1,185 1,190 4,840
of these deductions has to be paid over the NTS (district tax office con- 890 895 270 1,190 1,195 4,930
cerned) every 10th day of the following month. 895 900 350 1,195 1,200 5,010
However, a person who has no more than ten employees on average
900 905 440 1,200 1,205 5,100
from January to December of the preceding year may pay taxes withheld
905 910 520 1,205 1,210 5,180
to the government every half-year, after obtaining an approval by the head
of the tax office concern. 910 915 610 1,210 1,215 5,270
915 920 690 1,215 1,220 5,350
Monthly Tax Withholding Calculation Guidelines: 920 925 780 1,220 1,225 5,440
1) Monthly Total Income from Emloyment 925 930 860 1,225 1,230 5,530
2) (-) Non-taxable Income (Night-duty allowance) 930 935 950 1,230 1,235 5,610
Note: Night-duty allowance includes night overtime rate and night 935 940 1,040 1,235 1,240 5,700
differential rate (basic salary x 50%) 940 945 1,120 1,240 1,245 5,780
3) (=) Monthly Gross Wage & Salary Income 945 950 1,210 1,245 1,250 5,870
4) (-) 30% of Gross Wage and Salary Income (excluding Non-taxable 950 955 1,290 1,250 1,255 5,850
Income)
955 960 1,260 1,255 1,260 6,000
5) (=) Monthly Taxable Income
960 965 1,350 1,260 1,265 6,150
6) Equivalent Monthly Tax Withholding = Refer to Simplified Tax
Withholding Table 965 970 1,440 1,265 1,270 6,300
970 975 1,520 1,270 1,275 6,450
Monthly Tax Withholding Calculation Example: 975 980 1,610 1,275 1,280 6,600
Salary Details: 980 985 1,690 1,280 1,285 6,750
A) Gross Wage: 1,350,000\ B) Night-duty allowance: 50,000\ 985 990 1,780 1,285 1,290 6,890
990 995 1,860 1,290 1,295 7,040
Calculation: 995 1,000 1,950 1,295 1,300 7,190
1) 1,350,000\ - 50,000\ = 1,300,000\ 1,000 1,005 2,030 1,300 1,305 7,340
1,005 1,010 2,120 1,305 1,310 7,490
2) 1,300,000\ x 30% = 390,000\
1,010 1,015 2,200 1,310 1,315 7,640
3) 1,300,000\ – 390,000\ = 910,000\ 1,015 1,020 2,290 1,315 1,320 7,780
4) Refer to Simplified Tax Withholding Table 1,020 1,025 2,380 1,320 1,325 7,930
5) Answer: 910,000\ is equivalent to 690,000\ 1,025 1,030 2,350 1,325 1,330 8,080
1,030 1,035 2,430 1,330 1,335 8,230
1,035 1,040 2,520 1,335 1,340 8,230
Only on the Stellar 1,040 1,045 2,600 1,340 1,345 8,380
by Maria Regina P. Arquiza 1,045 1,050 2,690 1,345 1,350 8,530
1,050 1,055 2,780 1,350 1,355 8,680

In the middle of the night while looking at the sky, words slipped
from my tongue “I think he’s my destiny”. A simple thought from a
young mind that can’t be substantiated. It’s a
1,055
1,060
1,060
1,065
2,860
2,950
1,355
1,360
1,360
1,365
8,830
8,980
1,065 1,070 3,030 1,365 1,370 9,120
thought that might become an eternity of regret. 1,070 1,075 3,120 1,370 1,375 9,270
Is it just about courage? Or can it also be a fear 1,075 1,080 3,200 1,375 1,380 9,420
of rejection?
1,080 1,085 3,290 1,380 1,385 9,570
While reminiscing the moments that I had
spent with you, it’s a sweet serenity. It’s as if 1,085 1,090 3,370 1,385 1,390 9,720
you’re whispering words in my ears saying that 1,090 1,095 3,460 1,390 1,395 9,870
you love me. I may be convincing myself that it 1,095 1,100 3,430 1,395 1,400 10,020
is reality, but it’s not even a dejavu… or maybe 1,100 1,105 3,520 1,400 1,405 10,160
not even a nightmare that awakes me every 1,105 1,110 3,600 1,405 1,410 10,310
time that I will dream about you. There’s no truth 1,110 1,115 3,690 1,410 1,415 10,460
in it and those are just things and images that I 1,115 1,120 3,770 1,415 1,420 10,610
can see on the stellar. Those are just writings 1,120 1,125 3,860 1,420 1,425 10,760
that are written on the water of the rivers… But it keeps on haunting me. I 1,125 1,130 3,940 1,425 1,430 10,760
cannot let go…
1,130 1,135 4,030 1,430 1,435 10,910
Why can’t it be real? Why can’t I have you? Why can’t I have a genu-
ine smile? Why can’t I stop weeping? Melancholic…
1,135 1,140 4,120 1,435 1,440 11,060
You are so far and distant. I am shouting and you cannot hear me. 1,140 1,145 4,200 1,440 1,445 11,210
You cannot recognize. Or maybe you just don’t want to listen. I feel mis- 1,145 1,150 4,290 1,445 1,450 11,350
erable. There’s no bitterness, but I feel empty inside. 1,150 1,155 4,370 1,450 1,455 11,500
Dreaming is the only thing that keeps me moving… But that is indeed 1,155 1,160 4,460 1,455 1,460 11,650
senseless… I am living in my dreams and I am dying in mystery. 1,160 1,165 4,540 1,460 1,465 11,800

SULYAPINOY FEBRUARY 2008 5

 LABOR UPDATES
RE-
RE-EMPLOYMENT PROCEDURE SIMPLIFIED KOREAN MINIMUM WAGE SYSTEM FOR FOREIGN WORKERS
외국인근로자 쉽게 한 한국 최저 임금 제 Woe-Guk-In Geun-Ro-Ja Swip-Ge Han Han-Guk Choe-Jeo Im-Geum Je
한국 내 재고용 과정 (Re-
(Re-Entry) Compiled by: Aquilino J. Juanites Jr., Dondave Jabay, and Loreto Agustin
(예전 고용주와 재 계약하는 경우)
LABOR STANDARDS ACT (Amended by: Act No. 6974 on September 15, 2003):
(1) Standard working hours per week shall not exceed fourty four (44 hrs.) excluding recess time.(For workplaces with less than 50 workers)
1. 고용지원센터 (Job Center)에
Center)에 외국인근로 (2) Standard working hours per week shall not exceed fourty (40 hrs.) excluding recess time. (For workplaces with 50 workers and above)
자 고용신청서 제출.
제출. (3) Working hours per day shall not exceed eigth hours (8hours) excluding recess time.
2. 진행자 : 고용주 NOTE:
• 근로자의 비자 만료 기간 30일 이전에, 고 Effective July 1, 2008, the 40-hour workweek system shall also apply to any workplaces with 20 workers and above. In other words, the
용주가 고용지원겐터 (Job Center) 에서 신청 standard working hours per week shall not exceed 40-hours. And by the year 2011, 44-hours workweek shall be completely abolished.
서 Re-employment Application Form를 작성 SCOPE Of APPLICATION:
하고 제출 해야 합니다. (관련 서류 : 고용주의 This wage system shall apply to all Korean and foreign workers working under businesses or workplaces in South Korea in which
사업자둥록증 사본, 외국인 고용허 가서 사본, more than 5 workers are ordinarily employed.
근로자의 여권, 구용계약서 사본 둥) SUMMARY OF MINIMUM WAGE SYSTEM SINCE EPS IMPLEMENTATION
• 외국인, 근로자의 재고용 확인서 발급과 법

무부 및 한국산업인력공단에 신고. Min. Wage/Month Overtime Rate/Hour Night Differetial

3. 진행자 : Job Center Year
Rate/Hour Rate/Day
(월 최저 임금) (초과근무 시간급) (심야수당 시간당)

• 고용지원겐터 (Job Center) 에서 신청서 (시간급) (일급)

OPTION B
‘Re-employment Application Form’를 받으 44hrs/week 40hrs/week OPTION A 1st 4hrs After 4hrs 10:00PM to 6:00AM
면, 앞서 말한 신청서 사본을 고용주와 근로자에 OT/week OT/week
게 각각 1부씩 발급해 줍니다. (신청서를 받은 8hrs x rate/hr x
Unit \: (KRW) 226hrs/month 209hrs/month rate/hr x 125% rate/hr x 150% rate/hr x 50%
rate/hr 150%
날로부터 7일 이내)
2005 2,840 22,720 641,840 593,560 4,260 N/A N/A 1,420
• 그 이후고용지원겐터 (Job Center) 에서 2006 3,100 24,800 700,600 647,900 4,650 N/A N/A 1,550
법무부와 한국산업인력공단에 신고하게 됩
2007 3,480 27,840 786,480 727,320 5,220 N/A N/A 1,740
2008 3,770 30,160 852,020 787,930 5,655 4,713 5,655 1,885
니다.
NOTE:
• Job Seeker Roster에 자료를 입력하고
1) For companies still implementing the 44 hours work-week system - must use OPTION A Overtime Rate/Hour Computation.
CCVI를 발급.

4. 진행자 : 한국산업인력공단 법무부

2) Starting Januray 2008, all companies implementing the 40 hours work-week system - must use OPTION B Overtime Rate/Hour
Computation for a period of 3-years from its implementation date. After its 3-years of implementation, the computation must be
1. -한국산업인력공단 에서 Job Seeker reverted back to OPTION A.
Computation: (How to get 226 average working hours per month)?
Roster에 Re-employment 둥록을 합니다.
Data: 1year = 12 months
- 법무부에서 CCVI를 발급합니다. 1year = 365 days
- 외국인 근로자의 귀국/재고용. 1year = 52 weeks
5. 진행자 : 근로자 * In 1 year 52 weeks also 52 Saturdays
52 Saturdays x 4 hours/Saturday = 208 hours (Half of 8 hours, for Sat. working days)
- 고용주가 재고용에 동의한외국인 근로자는 다
208 hours/ 8 hours x 1 day = 26 days
음 서류를 구비하여 본국으로 돌아갑니다.
365 days - 26 days = 339 days
1. Re-employment Application Form 339 days/year ÷ 12 months/year = 28.25 days/month
2. CCVI 28.25 days/month x 8 hours/day = 226 hours/month
Ways of computing Minimum Wage
-근로자는 한국에서 출국한 날을 기준으로 1개
1)Minimum Wage/month = 226hours/month.x rate/hour
월 후에 한국에 재입국할 수 있으며, 한국에 재
2)Minimun Wage/day = 8 hours/day x rate/hour
입국하기 전에 E9 비자를 발급 받기 위하여 분 3)Minimum Wage/month= 28.25 days/month (average working days/month) x rate/day
국 한국 대사관에 위 서류 1, 2번을 제출합니다.
For 2007: For 2008:
-근로자는 언어시험과 재교육 대상에서 면제됩
226 hours of work/month (Less than 50 workers) 226 hours of work/month (Less than 50 workers)
니다.
3,480 won/hour x 226 hrs/month = 786,480 won/month 3,770 won/hour x 226 hours/month = 852,020 won/month
3. 고용지원센터 (Job Center)에 보고.

6. 진행자 : 고용주
3,480 won/hour x 8 hours/day = 27,840 won/day 3,770 won/hour x 8 hrours/day = 30,160 won/day
27,840 won/day x 28.25 days/month = 786,480 Won/month 30,160 won/day x 28.25 days/month = 852,020 won/ month
-고용주는 근로자가 도착한 날로부터 10일 이
For 2007: For 2008:
내에 고용지원센터 (Job Center)에 고용신고를
209 hours of work/month (50 workers and above) 209 hours of work/month (50 workers and above)
해야 합니다.
3,480 won/hour x 209 hours/month = 727,320 won/month 3,770 won/hour x 209 hours/ month = 787,930 won/ month
- 근로자에 게는 업무변경이 허용되지 않으며,
3,480 won/hour x 8 hours/day = 27,840 won/day 3,770 won/hour x 8hours/day = 30,160 won/day
반드시 이전 고용주와 일을 해야만 합니다. (고
27,840 won/day x 26.125 days/month = 727,320 won/month 30,160 won/day x 26.125 days/month = 787,930 won/ month
용주의 폐업이나 고용주의 임금 미지불 둥 불가

피한 경우는 제외)
Three Years Re-Employment when the worker applies for Visa.
참고: 2007년 6월 1일 부터 실효 3. At the POEA, proceed to BALIK MANGAGAWA
System Procedure section.
• 기타 자새한 내용은 노동부 홈페이지

(www.molab.go.kr) 1. An employer has to renew labor contract within

• 원클릭가이드 외국인을 참조하시 거나 노 30-90 days prior to expiration of worker’s VISA.
동부 종합상담센터 (국번없이 1350)로 문
2.The employer applies for worker’s Visa, within two SULYAPINOY called up both HRD-Korea and
의하시기 바랍니다.
(2) weeks upon application and if approved, a Cer- POLO and confirmed that the rumor about the cancel-
tificate of Confirmation of Visa Issuance (CCVI) is lation of the Re-Hire Program for EPS is NOT TRUE.
• 더욱 자세한 내용은 고용지원센터 issued by the Immigration Office. In some cases, Fr. Alvin Parantar, Chaplain of the HFCC, warned
1588-1919로 문의하시기 바랍니다. only a Secret Control Number is given to the em- the community that there may be some groups that
ployer. Only the CCVI or he Secret Number is initiated a misinformation campaign to pursue their
required by the Korean Embassy in the Philippines, agenda. Beware!

6 SULYAPINOY FEBRUARY 2008

 LEARNING KOREAN

Basic Korean Lesson 2 Transformation has a rule. It is very easy. ‘–까’ is

By: 홍희창 (Hong Hee-Chang), Korean Teacher of Miriam Center School - Hyewadong same as –다. But it is used in a question sentence. If
you ask something, change –다 to –까. And use a
안녕하세요. Basic Korean 두 번째 시간입니다. question mark also

This is our second Basic Korean lesson. Can you still remember our last Let`s try….
lesson? We studied about S, O, and V last time. If you had studied them hard,
I’m sure you already knew some basic Korean sentences. Have you tried my Base Form Formal Ending Question
assignment? You can see the correct answer in the Miriam Center`s blog 하다 합니다. 합니까?
http://kr.blog.yahoo.com/hischang82. Please spare time checking it.
먹다 먹습니다. 먹습니까?

Our second lesson is about verb grammar. As we knew in our first lesson, a 보다
verb is the last group in a sentence. A verb is very important in Korean. It shows
different types of tenses, statements or questions, and honorific expressions. 만나다
When you did my assignment, you saw different kinds of verb grammar such 쓰다
as –다, -까, or –요.
듣다.

Let’s start with –다. ‘-다’ is commonly used in writing a newspaper, book or something else. It is also 읽다

used at formal speech like a presentation. When you speak in front of people, you must have used –다. 가다
And -다 is usually used in a statement sentence. 오다

For example, 하다 is to do; 먹다 is to eat.

Time is up! We will study about –요 and subject
1) 나는 축구를 하다 2) 나는 밥을 먹다. next time. The verb is so important. Please study
more and find more words.
If you want to use –다 in the sentence, put together the –습니 or –ㅂ니. It shows the present
tense. –습니다 or –ㅂ니다 is the formal present ending. When a verb stem ends a vowel, –ㅂ니다 is Thank you. 감사합니다.
used.
See you next time! 다음시간에 만나요!
When it ends with a consonant, -습니다 is used.
1) 나는 축구를 합니다 2) 나는 밥을 먹습니다.

하다 has a verb stem 하- that ends a vowel, so –ㅂ니다 is used. While 먹다, its verb stem 먹-
FEBRUARY MARCH
ends with a consonant, so -습니다 is used.
20 - Edgar Allan Reyes 5 - Marvin L.Aparici
Let`s practice… Change the basic form verbs to formal ending verbs. Gerald Jaypee Gramaje 10 - Rodelio F.Crisostomo
Jovencio Araque 11 - Nelisa G.Coliat
보다 (to see) → _____________________ 만나다 (meet) → _____________________ 21 - Jose Allan Bernasol 13 - Moises C. Marcial
22 - Joel Tavarro 14 - Allan R. Lalu
쓰다 (write) → _____________________ 듣다 (listen) → ______________________ 23 - Alfredo Miralpez 17 - Marciano G.Gonzalez Jr.
읽다 (read) → _____________________ 사다 (buy) → ______________________ 25 - Gloria Hadap 18 - Alvin Rexon L.Santillana
26 - Reynaldo Tabuena 19 - Joseph P. Dugayo
Marvin Nobleta 20 - Joel C. Calopez
The answers are 1) 봅니다. 2) 만납니다. 3) 씁니다. 4)듣습니다. 5) 읽습니다. 6) 삽니다. Lilani Sinahon 21 - Ricky G.Fetizanan
Dondave Jabay 23 - Ariel J. Defeo
27 - Alex Regaspi 24 - Ireneo D.Samson
Dear Readers: Raquel Arche Leonilo E.Caubalejo
28 - Teofilo Camo Juevel P.Maglangit
SULYAPINOY is launching its donation program dubbed as HELP US TO HELP YOU due 26 - Manolito C.Crooc
MARCH 27 - Orlando V.Presincula
to the following reasons and objectives: 29 - Romulo M.Panambo
1 - Hernan M. Gutierez Jonas P.Dula
1. Inadequate financial sponsors to support its monthly printing expenses. 3 - Philbert C.De Guzman 31 - Aristotle Benjamin Gamiao
Nelson G. Valenzuela
2. To increase its monthly distribution copies by 50% to ensure majority of its readers
(Filipino OFW) will receive a copy regularly.
3. To increase its regular issue frequency from monthly to a bi-monthly issue. DISCLAIMER
Different opinions are encourage to stimulate mem-
In this connection, SULYAPINOY is asking your generous support to this program. You can
ber input and involvement. SULYAPINOYs role is to
give your donation of any amount at SULYAPINOY distribution area or at its office at OK provide information that permits FEWA members to
AIRTEL VISION ASIA (in front of Hyehwa Catholic Church) and Woori Bank during Sun- develop informed opinions on subjects that will af-
days from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If you have questions please contact (010-9294-4365 / fect their status as migrant workers and, in some
0 1 0 -8 68 2 -7 02 1 ) o r e m a il a t s u ly a p _c h ie fe d ito r@ h o tm a il.c o m o r instances, their personal lives. FEWA does not
sulyap_managing@hotmail.com or sainofos@yahoo.com. hold itself responsible for statements made by
any contributor. Statements or opinions ex-
pressed in SULYAPINOY reflect the views of the
Thank you to your constant support. SULYAPINOY is wishing you the best author(s) and not the official policy of FEWA
throughout the year! unless so stated.

SULYAPINOY FEBRUARY 2008 7

ENTERTAINMENT
Instructions:
1) Fill the white squares with numbers 1 to 9 so that
they add up to the sums shown in highlighted
squares (gray color).
By: Dondave Jabay 2) A gray color square will show one or two numbers
By: Dave & Alwyin separated by a diagonal line.
3) A number that is above the diagonal line
Reviewed by: Angela, Korean Teacher of Miriam Center School
is the sum of the row of white squares to its
15 10
Manufacturing Company (제조 회사) Je-Jo Hoe-Sa 3 right.
4) A number that is below the diagonal line
Production Department (생산부) Saeng-San Bu 10 8
30 is the sum of the column of white squares
Administration Department (관리부) Gwan-Ri Bu beneath it.
15 14
Operation Division (사업부) Sa-Eop Bu 3 9 Two important rules:
Sales Division (영업부) Yeong-Eop Bu 4
1) There are no zeroes.
Output or Yield (생산량) Saeng-San-Ryang 6 3
2) Do not put the same number in each
9
Process (과정) Gwa-Jeong 14
sum of the row of white squares to its right
or column beneath it.
Assembly (조립) Jo-Rip
Repair (수리하다) Su-Ri Ha-Da 17 The most exciting part!!!
Repairman (수리공) Su-Ri-Gong Anyone who can answer first the puz-
zle correctly will receive a reward in
Repair Shop (수리공장) Su-Ri-Gong Jang courtesy of SULYAPINOY Editorial
12 15 10
Procedure (절차) Jeol-Cha Staff. How to r eport your answer?
3 1 2 3 Please call 010-9294-4365 or email
Guidelines (지침서) Ji-Chim-Seo 19 sulyap_managing@hotmail.com.
6 3
Assembly Plant (조립공장) Jo-Rip-Gong Jang 2 4 1 2
30 14
Quality Team (품질 팀) Pum-Jil Tim 35
6 3 8 4 9 5
Plant Shutdown (공장 폐쇄) Gong-Jang Pye-Swae
Bankruptcy (파산) Pa-San
23
3 1 7 2 4 6
Answer to January Issue
Buyer (구매자) Gu-Mae-Ja 14 3
5 9 1 2
Customer (고객) Go-Gaek
4
Supplier (공급자) Gong-Geup-Ja 6 3 1
Establishment (사업장) Sa-Eop-Jang
Finance Department (재무부) Jae-Mu Bu
Director (이사님) I-Sa-Nim; Meeting (회의) Hoe-Ui
Engineering Department (공학부) Gong-Hak Bu
Production Engineer (생산 기사) Saeng-San Gi-Sa By: Sofonias ‘Chabok’ Paragsa

Production Operator (생산 조작자) Saeng-San Jo-Jak-Ja 1

Machine Operator (기계 조작자) Gi-Gye Jo-Jak-Ja 여 름
1

Fork-lift Truck Operator (지게차 기사) Ji-Ge-Cha Gi-Sa

2
자 러 3
공 2 3

Internal Audit (내부 감사) Nae-Bu Gam-Sa

4
본 고 장
5
4 5
Safety First (안전 제일) An-Jeon Je-Il
6
이 마 6
Fire Precautions (화재 예방책) Hwa-Jae Ye-Bang-Chaek 7
아 름 다 운
8
7 8
Fire Exit (비상구) Bi-Sang Gu; 니 방
Fire Extinguisher (소화기) So-Hwa-Gi 9
월 요 10
일
Raw Materials/Ingredients (원료) Weon-Ryo
Employment Contract (고용 계약) Go-Yong Gye-Yak
급 11
요 리 9 10

Accident Insurance (재해 보험) Jae-Hae Bo-Heom

12
과 일 11
Employment Insurance (고용 보험) Go-Yong Bo-Heom Answer to January Issue 12
National Health Insurance (국민 건강 보험) Guk-Min Geon-Gang Bo-Heom
ACROSS DOWN
Health Insurance (건강 보험) Geon-Gang Bo-Heom
1) officer 1) illegitimate child
Immigration Officer (출입국 관리관) Chul-Ip-Guk Gwan-Ri-Gwan
2) student 3) map
Immigration Official (추입국 직원) Chul-Ip-Guk Jik-Weon 4) perhaps, maybe
이층철
5) to drink
7) song title ( ) 6) self praise, pride
Immigration Office (출입국 관리 사무소) Chul-Ip-Guk Gwan-Ri Sa-Mu-So
경찰 9) center for Filipino community in South Korea 7) sketch
Police ( ) Gyeong-Chal, Police Station (경찰서) Gyeong-Chal-Seo 11) conversation 8) one way
12) window 9) advantage
Export Sales Department (수출 판매부) Su-Chul Pan-Mae Bu 10) market place

8 SULYAPINOY FEBRUARY 2008

 LITERARY

MGA NASAYANG NA TAON

ni Jun Bagman
Isang batang tatlong-taong gulang pa Aniya,"Itay dumito ka muna,
Ang nagtanong sa kanyang ama, Para ako ay may kasama.
"Tay,saan ang iyong punta Nakakalungkot kasi dito
Di mo ba ako isasama?" Habang naglalaro akong mag-isa."
Sabi ni ama,"Wag ngayon anak, Sagot ni ama,"Wala akong oras anak,
Diyan sa di kalayuan ang aking pupuntahan. Ako'y nagmamadali pa
Sa pinakamalapit na kanto Sa pinakamalapit na kanto'y
Kung saan may inuman." Naghihintay ang mga barkada."

Dahil sa inusenteng pagmamahal ng bata Parang kahapon lang nang nagtanong

Ay hinayaan ang kanyang ama Ang anak kong tatlong-taong gulang,
Na magtungo sa di kalayuan "Saan ang iyong punta itay,
At sa piling niya muli'y mawawala. Di mo ba ako isasama?"
Umaasang ang ama'y di makakalimot, Pero kay bilis ng panahon
Sa matagal na niyang pinapaalala. Sinabi niya sa akin ngayon,
Na ngayo'y kaarawan niya, "Di mo ba naaalala ama
At apat na taong gulang na siya. Ako'y biente-kuatro na?"

Isang pamilyar na yabag sa hagdan, Maraming taon ang nasayang

Sinalubong ang ama sa pintuan. Si ama'y kay dami nang dinaramdam.
"Tingnan mo itay,ako'y lumalaki na, Nabibigatan ang puso
Kaarawan ko'y aming ipinagdiwang." Habang ang sinasabi ng anak ay pinakikinggan,
"Gumawa si mama ng keyk, "Maiwan ka muna itay,
Na may apat na kandila. Diyan sa di kalayuan ang aking patutunguhan.
Di namin kinain lahat, Sa pinakamalapit na kanto
Para sa'yo kami ay nagtira." Ako'y makikipag-inuman."

HOW DO YOU LOVE HIM?

By Amie Sison

How do you celebrated your Valentines Day? Consider your working hours and place of work it's not easy to celebrate that on that day.
Well, all knew Valentines is the wonderful day for people who is in love. I don't know why I had never had a date on that special day.
Usually I was a heart broken. On my age, I realized waiting for the right guy is only my imagination. Or maybe God wants to test me
before he introduce my dream man. I found him but some problems occurred.
Honestly I love him. I accepted everything about him. His personality, nationality, and religion. Between us, we realized we need each
other. We support each other in time that we have no place to go. When we felt we are so down. When we knew we went so far. We
promised that we will try to exert all effort we can to save our relationship. We encountered troubles, of course it's all his fault. He is a
womanizer. However, I still can managed to forgive him. You may be surprised it was happened for the fourth time. Thus my heart and
my mind have same ideas. The highlight question must be like this. Am I stupid?
Admittedly, I love him so much. However, the time is reaching its limit. And one question changed our lives. I will be a Muslim or not? I'm
expecting for this tough question. On the other hand, I'm prepared because I knew it will happen. I answered him without any hesitation.
In a truly impressive way I replied. " If i will still have my son, my family, and my faith. I will stay with you." I believed God. He believed
Allah. I can't change my faith. By contrast we decided to part our ways. The dramatic scenario is to give up. A restless mind happened to
me after only one question. Above all, that decision is the most valuable gift I can keep as a Christian. Until my last breathe I will believe
on him. He is behind on my circumstances. Victory or Failure. I also believe that for every moment I felt so down. He's carrying me.

I knew I met my dream boy. The person I want to spend in my whole life. But if I will change my faith. Ooops. I need to quit. This was
remarkable decision I ever made in my life. The love for him. One evidence I love Jesus. How about you?
How do you love him?

SULYAPINOY FEBRUARY 2008 9

LITERARY

IDIOCY
Maria Regina P. Arquiza

A genuine smile that touches my heart It’s you whom I have cared about
Is it a dream or reality? It’s you whom I have waited
Is it truth or is it a lie? It’s you whom I have loved
A shadow behind is pulling me And it’s you…
It’s indeed heavy Just you…
I cannot move and I cannot escape Who had changed my life…
But do I have the courage to say the things that You, who had changed my heart.
need to be said? And now
Or to write the words and reveal the actions that It’s going to be forever
need to be expressed? My eternal pain and sacrifice.
Or is this some kind of an idiocy?
Will you ever understand?

THEY ARE IN LOVE MISSING HOME...

Maria Regina P. Arquiza
Amie Sison

being cared by those people whom i love the most

not having the feeling of isolation
The uniqueness of love that bringing
always happy for not being neglected
Making two heart beats ringing
i am not alone.
Cherishing the love obviously flowing
every failure means victory
From their eyes that look like shining
every tear means gladness
every burden means glory
Cheers to someone out there
and every sadness means tranquility.
As I call them sweet lovers
this different place separates me from my world
And the guys carrying flowers
the world that gives a definition to my being
His special love he wants to offer
i am a total stranger
a wanderer strolling around the corners of the world
Gladly are those people who are in love
and a lost soul who is missing home
Listening for their heart beats command
wanting to come back to where she originally started her
The true love that they finally found
journey
Share it's joy to the people around
i am hoping, indeed
the place with my friends
But who am I on that day
the place with my family
Still waiting for a guy to come my way
my haven
To celebrate the wonderful Valentines day
my home.
A nearly perfect date I always pray.

10 SULYAPINOY FEBRUARY 2008

 LITERARY

COMPLAINING FOR THE COMPLICATED LOVE...

by Amie Sison

I just nodded when the staff behind SULYAPINOY suggested me to handle a per-
manent column about "love questions and insecurities”. In other words, “love
consultant”. I demanded for a hats-off if only this may sound relatively. I always
left helpless. I heard a comment from one man once on the busy scenario of af-
ter mass moment outside of Saint Benedict Parish Church (also known as
Hyehwadong Catholic Church). He boldly said that he was interested to meet
me. On his face I saw the sincerity from his words as he read my poems. Maybe
he is an avid reader of my love stories that was written through poems on SAM-
BAYANAN. Or maybe he wanted to give an advice about my love life.

If some Universities offer a course about learning to handle a relationship to op-

posite sex maybe I would hurriedly put my name on registration. And so after
graduation I can be a woman version of Joe D' Mango as love consultant.

Top of my question was...Is it wrong to be honest, dedicated, loving, and loyal for our partner. Absolutely love for
me is the hardest problem to solve.

Sometime we are not aware that there are people who love us truthfully. They were there for any situation. They
were happy if we are happy. They're most upset if we are downed. And if we are in need they're like a bullet train as
they come. And we are lucky one if we will know we are special for them. But some people act differently. Instead
to acknowledge them they will not accept the praise. Not saying thank you as well. And it will be sad moment for
that kind of person.

In contrast, some just keep that treasured feelings until it will unnoticeably forgotten. On my college years one of
the course is about to make a research a love from opposite sex my professor rejected because it was too broad. I
agreed and it will take a lot of time to gather the details needed.

How does love become so simple and complicated to other people? On the other hand in one relationship one be-
came so selfish and inconsiderate. And expected to be unfair. That was me who left a numb? I'm not perfect and I
did all I can but still neglected. Really, I can't stretch myself to satisfy them nor I can't just afford to change my
whole personality to please them. In return that will be best time for them to say “hi” to one or two or three or
more girls on the crowd until they got a hot girl to replace me. So I was reminded of my definition of love..."Love is
the hardest problem to solve"
Unfortunately, when things wrapped up and I'm ready to move on… that is the only time they realized I'm such a
shining star on the darkest night. Followed by an award winning statement...Of course since I move on the new
journey I can't give back the trust and love before. It's a very sad story of my love life.

Once, I asked myself why does I never dictate myself that I will hate a man or I don't want to fell in love again even
it always left me hurt. Instead, I’m hurriedly looking for a new boyfriend. And I can't imagine how I will survive
without a boyfriend.

Admittedly, sometime in a relationship even it's like on and off love still existing. Why does we let Love ruled our
lives. Superstar, politician, and businessman… any person lies beneath on the power of love. Therefore, I’m not
alone. Maybe you are one of us… one of the people who are contented to love someone without listening on
the rumors. Simply happy with our special someone…

SULYAPINOY FEBRUARY 2008 11

 OUR SPONSORS
Magandang araw po sa lahat! Salamat po sa
pagtangkilik sa pahayagang ito. Simula po sa
isyung ito ay matutunghayan ninyo ang aking
column. Naisip ko pong maglabas ng ganitong
column sapagkat maraming mga Pilipino na hindi
makauwi sa Pilipinas o makahinto sa pagtatra-
baho sa ibang bansa dahil sa kanilang palagay
ay di pa sapat ang kanilang naipon o perang
naitabi upang magpatuloy ng bagong buhay sa
Pilipinas. Naisip kong masmagandang maka-
pagbahagi ako ng financial management advice
para sabay sabay naten maiuwi ang pangarap ng
ating mga pamilya. Let me share with you a letter
sent by an OFW in Banwol.
===================================
Dear Ate Rose,
Ni-renew po ng employer ko ang aking contract
sa Korea. Hindi po ako nakapag-ipon nung una
kong punta dito dahil akala ko ang maginhawang
buhay ay walang katapusan. Naubos ko po ang
pera sa kakainom at kaka-noraebang. Ang asawa
ko naman po ay naubos ang aking padala sa
kakapunta ng mall para magshopping. Bigyan nyo
naman po ako ng financial management tips para
this time ay makap-ipon naman ako para mabi-
gyan ng magandang kinabukasan ang aking
pamilya.
Sincerely,
Ramil Dimaguiba
12 SULYAPINOY FEBRUARY 2008
Dear Ramil,
Bilang Overseas Filipino, one of the most important things to learn is financial discipline. Mayroong dala-
wang important elements ng financial discipline.
First ay ang self-discipline o disiplina sa sarili kung ano ang gagawin sa perang kinikita. Parati mong isipin
na kaya ka pumunta sa Korea ay para bigyan ng magandang buhay ang iyong pamilya.
Ang perang inuubos mo sa iyong bisyo ay perang mailalaan mo sana sa kinabukasan nila. Masaya tayo
kapag nakakapagpadala tayo ng malaki sa Pilipinas. Kaya lang kailangan ng plano at sistema sa pagpapadala.
Planning is an important part of self discipline. Decide how much and how often you’ll send money to your family.
This way sigurado tayong sapat at tama at darating sa tamang oras ang ating padala! The lack of a systematic
plan in sending remittances is the main reason kung bakit karamihan sa atin ay hindi nakakaipon.
Second ay ang family discipline. Ito ay ang pamumuhay ayon sa nakapagkasunduang budget at pagiingat sa
gastos ng padalang pera. Magkano nga ba ang tamang family budget? Ganito po ang suggestion ko. Magan-
dang pagusapan bilang isang pamilya ang current na gastusin. Kailangan pagkasunduan ang monthly expenses.
Kung noong bago ka umalis ay nagkakasya ang monthly budget na P15,000 ay maaari lamang tumbasan ito
ngaung nandito ka na uli sa Korea. Responsibility ng pamilya mo na mamuhay ng tama at pagkasyahin ang
agreed upon monthly budget. Itabi ang extra para sa savings na magagamit para sa emergency needs o special
occasions.
Bukod sa regular na padala ay darating din ang oras na hihingi sila ng additional money for unplanned
expenses or emergencies. That is why it is very important to stay connected or to keep in close touch with your
family. Kailangan updated ka sa mga latest tungkol sa iyong pamilya. Lalo kung may important developments
requiring financial decisions o additional na gastusin. Be involved! Ikaw ang kumikita ng pera. Kahit na malayo ka
sa pamilya, you have a right and a responsibility to help your family spend that money wisely. Para di mapunta
ang ating pinagpaguran sa wala let me share with you the secret kung paano tayo makakaipon ng sigurado. Ang
secret ay sa pagbabago ng relationship between income, savings and expense. Sa ngayon, chances are ganito
ang formula na ginagamit natin. Income minus expense is equal to savings. Itinatabi lang naten ang perang
natira pagtapos tayo gumastos. Minsan ay wala pang natitira dahil ang ating expenses ay kasing laki lang ng
ating kita. Worse ay ang ating expenses ay higit pa kaysa sa ating kita kaya tayo nagkakautang. Paano kaya
kung baguhin kaya natin? Income minus savings is equal to expense. Yan po ang suggested formula that is
GUARANTEED to help save money for your future.
Kung mayroon po kayong tanong on how to manage your finances ay maaaring mag-email sa
rsgeronimo@hotmail.com. Sa inyo namang remittance, maaari po kayong magpadala sa BPI through Woori
Bank at very low remittance fees and competitive exchange rates. Ang Woori Bank Hyehwadong Branch ay
bukas kada lingo. Maaari kayong magpadala credit to your BPI, BPI Family Bank and BPInoy Savings Account.
Pwede ring pick up at any BPI branch, door-to-door and credit to other banks.
Ate Rose
 OUR PARTNER

MESSAGE Sing with glorious praise to the Lord!

Congratulations to the Filipino EPS Workers
Association on the publication of SULYAPINOY. Join the Messenger Choir of God
It is especially encouraging to know that FEWA
is working closely with HRWOFC in pursuing
their common goal in helping Filipino migrant
workers here in Korea.

Korea is a better country because of the pres-

ence of many Filipinos. You are diligent workers
and a help to the local economy. You are family
-oriented and you give the Koreans a good
model of family life. Also, your deep faith and
devotion to God is a model and inspiration to Koreans. I have been personally
moved by the religious spirit of the Filipino people as they participate in Sun-
day Mass here in Cheongju.

I hope all the Filipinos here will also learn much about Korea while you are
here. The Korean language is difficult but with a little effort, you can learn the
alphabet and some commonly used expressions. Koreans appreciate even
your simplest attempts to speak their language. Above all, it helps to make
friends with a few Koreans. They are not all "bosses" and uncaring people.
Many of them want to know you personally and they are concerned that your
stay in their country is a happy one for you. STANDING L-R: SOR MARGARET, TERE, MARITESS, ANNIE B., FR. EDWARD,
ANNIE, SIS.LYDIA, RACHEL, RANDY, AMY, ANTHON, RODOLF, MICHAEL, BRO.
FEWA and SULYAPINOY are good instruments for promoting a happy and THOMAS
meaningful stay in Korea. As the Koreans say, "Fighting!". SITTING L-R: SIS. JENNY, SIS. MARTINA, JEFFREY, MORENO, NEL, SIS. JULIANA,
MANNY, and MAX
(Sgd) Rev. Edward Whelan, M.M. Hung Dok Catholic Church, Cheongju City, South Korea
HRWOFC Spiritual Adviser
For more information please call 01094143434

NEW SET OF OFFICERS INDUCTED

The Human Rights Welfare Organization-Filipino Community has achieved another
milestone as new set of officers was inducted last December 23, 2007 at Kabayan
Function Hall in Cheongju City. Labor Attaché Atty. Delmer R. Cruz presided the
induction.
HRWOFC SET OF OFFICERS
President - Ana Maria M. Adante
Vice- President - Franklin U. Caturla
Secretary - Imelda C. Dahan Asst. Secretary - Riclay T. Abadejos
Treasurer - Rosario A. Balgua Asst. Treasurer - Melody A. Tumala
Auditor - Evangeline R. Retuta
Officers and members of HRWOFC together with
Asst. Auditors - Myla G. Sanchez, Virgilio G. Santos Labor Attaché Atty. Delmer R. Cruz during the induction
Public Information Officers - Emily Cabañog, Jeffrey Mendoza, Alerico A. Barrozo,
Marino Demaangay, Jovito Gregorio
Peace Keeping Officers - Roosevelt L. Velayo, Danilo D. Palac, Rolly P. Gerona,
Ruben T. Manuel, Mario D. Pusung
Jochiwon Representative - Arnel S. Hebra
Jeongpyeong Representatives - Oswaldo D.Lipata, Ma. Gracelina D. Ramos
Oksan Representatives - Elmer S. Sarad, Melchor C. Calma
Ochang Representatives - Richard C. Somngi, Christian Ylen
COMMITTEES
Chairman - Funds & Projects - Moreno D. Esla
Vice- Chairman - Funds & Projects - Antholyn S. Hernandez
Chairwoman - Legal Affairs - Helen N. Balgos
Chairman - Sports - Christopher J. Guerra Co-Chairman-Sports - Joel Pahate
Chairwoman - Program - Hera Jubelag
Chairwoman - Community Services - Surala D. Vega
Adviser- Ahn Geon Soo
Spiritual Adviser - Rev. Edward Whelan, M.M HRWOFC BASKETBALL LEAGUE , August 2007.

SULYAPINOY FEBRUARY 2008 13

PHOTO ESSAY

In our Commitment & Determination...

Handog ng FEWA kay Fr. Glenn for his unconditional support to the Filipino Prof. Emely Dicolen-Abagat, Ph.D. (rightmost-center) giving leadership lecture to
Migrant Workers in South Korea FEWA officers and members, SULYAPINOY staff, and other community volunteers
at Philippine - Korean Cultural House in Jongno-gu Seoul
With Generosity & Compassion...

FEWA Christmas Party and Raffle for a Cause - Dec 16, 2007 FEWA and PMWAK Officers lead by Loreto Agustin (3rd from left) visited an accident
victim (3rd from right - sitting besides his wife) at Incheon Chamsarang Hospital

We dedicate our Volunteerism & Selflessness...

FEWA Officers and members posed with Labor Attache Atty. Delmer R. Cruz, Fr. Loreto Agustin, FEWA President (2nd from left) and Rebenson Recana,
Alvin Parantar, and POLO Officials (standing 1st line - 5th from left, 6th from left, and SULYAPINOY EIC (leftmost) received donation from the HRWOFC of Cheongju
4th to leftmost respectively), during SULYAPINOY launching on November 2007 City in support to HELP US TO HELP YOU: SHARE NOW campaign

14 SULYAPINOY FEBRUARY 2008 Printed by