Chiba Mini GPF

Chiba hosted Mini GPF
Nov.9, 2008
Fourtris Funabashi 8F, 33-13 Honcho 3 Chome Funabashi City

Report by: Remia Martin Watanabe

Shining in the most retrospective tracｋlist were the series of mini-GPF events recently recorded and reported, most notably its last single, The Chiba Mini-Global Peace Festival on its feat. Held at the Fourtris Funabashi 8F, 33-13 Honcho 3 Chome Funabashi City, Chiba last Nov. 9, 2008 with a theme , " Creating One Global Family.. "

It has been decided by the Filipino Japanese Movement for Global Peace executive officers and committees that there will be no mini-GPF to be done on the month of November. What was so appealing was the sincere voice of Ms. Marivic Arillo Mizushima to hold a Chiba mini-GPF. Barely a month Chiba team wasted no time in looking for the right avenues to jumpstart the event further. Worth checking out is the day of the event. A welcoming yet modest atmosphere of relaxed, inspiring emotion is apparent from the moment you enter the room. It feels a little like home. The event formally ignited by the invocation prayer uttered by Mr. Hector Vesillas. The passionate Marivic welcomed everybody and the special guests. Emphasizing that Chiba event is the last series of mini-GPF initiated by FJMGP and that everybody is invited on Nov. 15 for the first - ever GPF in Japan. She encouraged everybody to become peace advocators.2008 Global Peace Festival Video Presentation followed. A tribute to the successful GPF worldwide event astounded the viewers. Comes next a surprising intermission of a young lad Gerome Rara sung a love song entitled , "Before I Let You Go."

Mr. Brian Dirige, an engineer by profession and the FJMGP- PRO, explained the purposes and goals of FJMGP, as what had been reported in the previous mini-GPF. He further added that FJMGP was established only the month of April 2008, a toddler organization but was able to hold 15 mini-GPFs through-out Japan, garnered 2,000 plus Filipinos participated. FJMGP zoomed development and advancement hit wonder, as it reaped and even greater harvest of honor. Thanking everybody for the endless effort. An impromptu ability to come through, managed confidently when Mr. Roel Sison emcee the event at the spur of the moment. He tactfully introduce the keynote speaker, Ms. Angelita Obara, Pres. of the FJMGP and a Recipient of Ambassador for Peace Award. The ever dynamic speaker, gave an assuring idea and importance of what is GPF all about. GPF themes, activities, purposes were the main points clearly explained. Out in the podium, standing closely to the participants calling each one for unity to do service, to serve as peace - bridge not only to Japanese but to other foreign national as well.

Present during the event was a prominent lady at 69. Madame Fanny Kyo, founder and Pres. of Filipino Wives of Japanese Association ( FWJA ) which aims to help a Filipina ( generally the Filipinos ) overcome the difficulties faced in daily lives as foreigner in Japan. A co-founder and a former Pres. of Association of Foreign Wives of Japanese ( AFWJ) , Producer and a choreographer. She has been a staunch supporter of the environmental cause that made her received a Parangal Show in Manila after exploring Mt. Pinatubo for her charity and voluntary work. Barrels of ink have already been spilled on her numerous achievements in all forms of production, as mentor in promoting Philippine Culture and heritage and as a leader for charitable activities. She delivered the inspirational message as if she's giving advice to her child. Her words contained valuable wisdom. She quoted, saying, " I'm very proud of you. Peace to be realized is coupled with love and service. It comes from ourselves, to family, nation, and the world. Love God and love our neighbors. Be friendly, give your heart and the only way to do that is to volunteer without complain and not thinking of money. I'm raising funds through fashion shows even going to the stations saying " Onegai shimasu " for funds. Money goes to the needy. If you want to do something please do it with a smile. " Her enhancing presence gave us all deep and compelling inspiration.Bouquet of flower was given to Madame Kyo by Ms. Obara and Ms. Mizushima an appreciation for her noble work.Certificate of Peace Partnership with the GPF theme song CD was awarded by Ms. Obara and Ms. Mizushima to the following organizations: Madame Fanny Kyo - Founder and Pres. of FWJA Mr. Hideyuki Ozawa - Director, Asian Culture Exchange Association ( ACEA ) HANA - President, Mr. Tamutsu Nakamura , NTT - Life Support Com. Ltd. - NTT representative, Ms. Lovernly Ronquillo.

After thousands of heart - tugging messages . A simple but delicious snack was served . A perfectly chilled beverages of soda and fruit juices was a refreshing match to a well - flavored banana chocolate muffins.Coming up a family entertainment highlighted the event. A ballad song "Pagsubok" was sung by Jeron Okubo . The ever -committed partner of FJMGP, The Tong IL Modo, is on the top list participation to the series of mini-GPFs held through-out Japan. Thanks to Mr. Arnold Hiramis and his daughter Juna showing the Chiba viewers "The Form of Peace" a Martial Arts Ballet and later followed by the " Eye of the Tiger", duo of Ms. Obara and Mr. Hiramis. A one-two punch, highly spirited, received a loud W O W from the audience.The most awaited of all was the Philippine Ethnic Dances performed by the dance troupe of and choreographed by Madame Kyo itself. Tiboli - performed by Ian Tanaka and Marissa Tagena, was the most artistic dance of the Tiboli tribe. A dance of the four Datus' wives competing to each other. Particularly this dance is marked by intricate hands and arms movement along with shimmering costumes with dainty swirling hats to the sound. Manobo - performed by Judith Itoh, a ritual dance of the Manobo tribe during full moon for good bearing and harvest. Pangalay - performed by Judith Itoh, a muslim dance means to offer dance to the Royal Sultan . It depicts a group of women going through a motion of showing various way of wearing malong . Noticed that a single dress for these dances may feature as many as 10-20 different accessories from a very artistic feather - like headdress to a golden-brass anklets that sounds as the dancers elegantly perform the steps.In colorful costumes with slow and fast steps designed to bring out freshness and glow to the performers. The accompanying energetic beat of gongs and drums highlight the performers show off traditional steps creating a scence of joy among revelling audience. Truly a remarkable grace.After the ethnic dance rendition Ms. Itoh remained for a third-treat to the audience not a dance but a song to sing entitled, " Don't Cry For Me Argentina." A song profiled and acclaimed in the music world as one of a kind and it was without a doubt demonstrated. The singer a professional indeed, had a pｌeasant voice.. Pleasant... and tender even. She performed a comical interpretation of the song made the audience burst into laughter and applause. This was how her sense of humor operated.All performers awarded by Ms. Mizushima and Mr. Katsuhito Ohina, a Certificate of Appreciation and a CD of the GPF theme song for their participation and splendid performance.

Mr.Katsuhito Ohina, General Secretary of ACEA delivered the closing remarks.For the long overdue package, the raffle draw , a show toppings generally expected, is a special gift giving from the heart of the FJMGP Chiba Chapter. Chiba event started at 2:15 pm ended around 5:30 pm with a participating count of 68 people.Needless to say, preserving the precious memories, a picture taking with the Chiba family and guests, stamped the foundation of success for Chiba GPF never be erased.... Forever. After the event with a view of serving.　A just-enough meal was served to the remaining staff and guests. An array of fried chicken, paella and a touched of Japanese cuisine of nori-maki and inari. With a full service staff to help you unwind! All in a cozy and casual setting. A shiny venture of camaraderie : meet old friends and make new once opportunity.

Special thanks to the organizing committee: Ms.. Marivic Mizushina, coordinator ; Mr. Roel Sison, secretary ; Ms. Leonida Naruke, finance; Ms. Eutemia Ebato and Ms. Filomina Sekiguchi, receptionist and registration ; Ms. Mary Grace Sato, foods; Mr. Mitsunori Mizushima, Mr. Nilo Ibasco and Mr. Hector Vesillas , technical and physical arrangement.

THANK YOU EVERYONE !

FJMGP @ Love Nature Clean-Up

FJMGP members cleaning Arakawa River
( a part of the 1 Million Family Volunteer - GPF Project )
Nov. 9, 2008
Reported By: Lorie Shiokawa
hoto By : Jun Granada

It was a cold and cloudy Sunday but around 800 volunteers came out to join the Arakawa Clean-up in Katsushika-ku, Tokyo last Nov. 9, 2008 as part of the 1 Million Family Volunteer Activities in line with the Global Peace Festival-Japan 2008. The theme was Clean Environment.

There was an opening ceremony and orientation at around 9:45 AM. The different organizations who participated were recognized and among them were the New Wings, Red Wings, Takenotsuka Family, Arakawa Family, Youth Federation for World Peace and the Filipino-Japanese Movement for Global Peace (FJMGP). There were around 50 FJMGP members who came including their respective family to help in the clean-up. The NTT Life Support representative Ms. Juliet de Vera was also there to give her full support. Some government officials from Katsushika-ku ward were also present to witness the activity.

The different groups were then assigned to clean their designated areas of Arakawa riverside and the volunteers equipped with their cleaning gloves , masks, and garbage bags tackled the picking of wastes. Despite of the foul odor emitting from the river and the muddy grounds, the volunteers and even the children were full of energy in giving their service to the community through this clean-up.

After an hour of collecting wastes, the garbage was then segregated into combustible, non-combustible, pet bottles, metals, cans, etc.

A closing program was held and some families were given a certificate of recognition for being a part of the 1 Million Family Volunteer Activities. The Vice-President for External Affairs of the FJMGP, Mrs. Lorelie Shiokawa, who belongs to an international marriage was called with her family and requested to give a reflection of the event. She spoke in English and was translated to Japanese by Mrs.Masumi Cruz, the wife of the President of the Filipino-Japanese Blessed Family Association, Mr. Reuben Cruz, who was also present with the whole family. Ms. Shiokawa pointed out in her message that “if only each one of us have this spirit of service to clean our environment, then we can help save our mother earth from deterioration”.

There were also donation boxes for One Coin Volunteers wherein 100 yen or 500 yen were dropped by the participants and which proceeds will help to support some foreign children to complete a full course of primary schooling.

Plastic bottle caps were also collected as part of the GPF project to raise as many caps for recycling. For every 400 caps collected, we can support one child for a vaccination. The FJMGP’s official photographer that day was Mr. Jun Granada. A group picture taking at 12:30 noon ended the activity. Everyone who took part in the Arakawa Clean-Up was counted as part of the 1 Million Family Volunteers. Thank you very much for your hard work that day.

Tochigi Mini GPF

Mini GPF held in Tochigi

Nov 2,2008

Utsunomiya City Cultural Center

Report By: Ernie Nuylan

November 2, 2008, 2 weeks before the big day of the Tokyo GPF Main event at the Ajinomoto Stadium, Tochigi held its own GPF orientation at the Utsunomiya City Cultural Center.

The thirty guests who almost filled the 40-seat capacity function room, permeated the excited air with their “oohs” and “aahs” while watching the video presentation of the different GPF events in the Philippines, in addition to the keynote speech by Ms. Angie Obara, who elaborated on the themes of family rebuilding, culture of service, inter-religious cooperation and realization of multiracial and multi-cultural co-existence.

Ms. Nimfa Sasaki, founder of the Tochigi Filipino Society gave the Invocation and welcomed everyone. Thanks to Jack Calugan who emceed and started the lively atmosphere, they all got excited from the beginning. Through the video presentation,they identified themselves with the different localities in the Philippines from where they came. They attended a small local event but realized how big the GPF is worldwide and they were additionally inspired to understand that it started in the Philippines - they prided themselves in the idea that something great was started in their country and has spread internationally.

In addition to the prospects of peace that they knew to be of utmost importance, the multicultural gathering of people expressed through arts, songs and dances, was central to their interest. The greater part of the audience were dancers who performed in the entertainment part of the program. It was interesting that the audience diminished in half when the dancers vacated their seats to perform their Pandango and Tinikling.

Their numbers may not be as expected but their commitment to go to the main event, not only to attend but to perform their dances as well, gave us the reason to feel grateful that God can work through hands, however few. Given the very short notice and preparation to hold the event, the result was more than what could be expected. The Tochigi local members were short of time and resources.

Kagoshima Clean-Up Report

Shall we....clean up?

Family Volunteer Service Report

Nov.6,2008

by: Rose Ninomiya, FJMGP-Kagoshima
November 6, 2008 was a cloudy day at it rained a bit here in Kagoshima, but the gloomy weather didn't stop me from going to the area to clean up, it is the dance studio named Casa Danza where I'm also having my Hula lessons every Wednesday.The owner of the studio was very happy to allow me do this kind of project in there as I explained to him beforehand and as he was already fully convinced that I'm somewhat a very special dance instructress whom he could trust the facility and was given a spare key, now he's more amazed than usual. He wasn't around during the clean-up as he's busy w/ his other businesses, He's also owner of gift and book shops with 5 branches here in Kagoshima.

The dance studio is offering various dance lessons and is mostly used at night after school and office hours. So, the owner doesn't mind cleaning it very well as dirts are not visible during night time. But, I use and only have my lessons and rehearsals during daytime so I could see those dusts piling up in the corners. So, I'm motivated to take care of this nice facility.

I was expecting others to join me but were not able to make it. So, I started alone from 12:00 noon with my short prayer and played the GPF theme song on the background. I hung at the studio's windowpane the small FJMGP banner (with GPF logo) I made. I was hoping to finish cleaning up until 4:00 pm. Few minutes past 2:00pm, my Japanese friend and my former co-teacher of English at the Kagoshima Board of Education named Reiko Sakai-san came. Reiko is also my Hula student from another studio, but she willingly helped me out despite her very busy schedules. She rushed in right after her job in the morning and she even brought hot tea drinks and snacks for us to munch during breaks.

As we are totally engrossed with our areas and hoping to catch the time limit, we forgot to take pictures while cleaning. We however finished in time all the designated areas we wanted to clean and we're able to grab a passersby to take some snapshots for us outside the studio.The newly cleaned up studio was so bright, sparkling and so inviting that we couldn't resist the feeling of be the first ones to use it. I'm sure you know how it feels to be wanting to stay in a clean place. And since we had a little more time, we did the Billy's Boot Camp Video exercises and with our Hawaiian skirts on this time, we further expressed our passion for Hula and did few steps together.

Finally, this clean up service activity for others is a very wonderful and nice experience one could join and offer for the development of heart, spirit, relationship and environment. Doing it also serves as a very good condition to participate at the GPF main event. So, together, the next time around....shall we dance....er...shall we clean

FJMGP sponsored Medical Service in Phil.

Peace Service with AMMS
Cavite, Philippines
October 19,2008


FJMGP started engagement of sponsoring projects with partners for peace in Philippines. The concluded Free Medical and Dental Mission held at the Naic Covered Court, Naic, Cavite last October 19, 2008 was a success in terms of cooperation from the four different kinds of organizations.
AMMS (Asian Mobile Medical Services, Phil.)
YFWP (Youth Federation for World Peace, Baccor Chapter)
FFWP (Family Federation for World Peace)
FJMGP ( Filipino-Japanese Movement for Global Peace ) particulalry sponsored medicine for Blood Sugar testing.
Special thanks to leadership of Dr. Nora M.Hasegawa, FJMGP Vice president for Internal Affairs who initiated such opportunity inorder for FJMGP to be able to reachout services in Philippines .


The event started with a short programme which was emceed by Mrs. Pearlie M. Rivera, Vice President of OCM – DOPC, Naic. Mr. Eugene Santos, President of MAPA – Cavite did the honor of giving the Invocation. The Philippine National Anthem was led by Mrs. Precilla Baňares, Municipal Organizing Staff – DOPC District 3. Due to the absence of the guest speakers during the programme proper, Mrs. Pearlie happily welcomed the people on their behalf and called on the stage the Executive Director of the Family Federation for World Peace (FFWP) and Youth Federation for World Peace (YFWP) – Southern Tagalog, Dir. Jelly T. Alegre to welcome, inspire and introduce to the people these two organizations. Briefly, she relayed its vision and mission and why it is committed to do service projects for God and humanity. Last person to speak was Dr. Cristina M. Baccangen, Board of Trustees Asian Mobile Medical Mission Phils., Inc. (AMMS). She also briefly introduced the vision and mission of AMMS and gladly informed the public of their sincere commitment to render their services for free for the benefit of everyone. She also gave an orientation on the medical and dental procedures in order to have a smooth flow of activities during the entire event.

The first part of the programme was concluded by Mrs. Pearlie by thanking and acknowledging all the participating groups, sponsors, volunteer Medical Doctors, Dentist, Nurses, staff and members.

Part two of the programme immediately followed - the start of the medical and dental mission. After few minutes had gone by, Hon. Gerald Sugue, Barangay Chairman of Brgy. Balsahan, Naic where the venue is situated at, came and happily welcomed his constituent. Thus, he received a Certificate of Appreciation from the four organizers and sponsoring groups for his benevolent support and contribution to the success of this worthy cause benefiting his Barangay. He stayed for a while to oversee the event and was introduced to the leaders of the two partner organizations, Mr. Nestor Tabuac from DOPC and Dir. Jelly T. Alegre from FFWPU and YFWP.

Mr. Nestor Tabuac, Head Organizing Staff, DOPC – Cavite, came just in time together with Ms. Raquel I. Vergara, Municipal Organizing Staff, DOPC – Dasma, while the on-gong services had just started in order to welcome and introduce his organization, the Democratic Organization for People's Concern (DOPC) and also to share its purpose and mission to the people. He acknowledged and thanked the people who supported him and DOPC to make this project a great success.

FJMGP joined Multi-Cultural Festival of Youth 2008

Multi-cultural Festival of Youth 2008

Sumiyoshi Ward Community Center in Osaka

October 13,2008

by: FJMGP-Osaka Secretariat

FJMGP and other Community Organizations Joined October 13, 2008 – One thousand peace advocators and expectators jam-packed at the Sumiyoshi Ward Community Center in Osaka.There were 17 VIPs from the Filipino Community, a Korean and two other Japanese local leaders. Twelve Peace Ambassadors were recognized representing various sectors and hundreds of families all queued to take part in this momentous event.

The Multi-cultural Festival of Youth 2008 with the theme: “Multi-cultural communitystarts with multi-cultural exchange youth,” celebrated family and partnership. As early as August, the organizing committee headed by Mr. Shinji Oki and otherFilipino community leaders gathered and tackled the possibility of consolidating efforts to bring about unity in Kansai.The affair was blessed with an overwhelming support from various sectors centering on three nations. VIPs, representative guests as well as youth speakers were invited:Ms. Yomoto Kinoshita (Korea), Fr. Michael P. Dulnuan (Philippines) and Ms. Haruka Okashita (Japan).FJMGP and other Filipino community leaders participated actively in the event. The program was divided into two sessions. The initial program was centered on theYouth’s speech; Peace Ambassador Awardees; and the Partnership Agreement.Mr. Masayoshi Kajikuri, GPF Japan Executive Committee Secretary-General,emphasized the role of the youth in this changing society.

On the other hand, Ms. Angie Obara, GPF Executive Committee Filipino Community Representative reiterated the opportunities the event offers and encouraged everyone to go beyond individual affiliations.“It is like mixing kimchi and nato ,” young Yomoto Kinoshita claimed, Korean YouthSpeaker. According to Ms. Salvacion Borja-Beltran, Peace Ambassador ManilaPhilippines, the first step is to be able “to extend our hand to the person next to us.”“And by embracing other cultures,” Fr. Michael P. Dulnuan (Takasago House ofWorkers) said we can indeed make a difference.Ms. Haruka Okashita also shared her dream of establishing a model multi-culturalfamily in Osaka wherein many people from different backgrounds can gather as onefamily. “My dream is to spread this model family from Osaka to the world,” sheclaimed. She said she will carry this spirit. Ms. Okashita believes that multi-culturalsociety starts from multi-cultural youth. She ended her speech by proclaiming that the youth can make this possible!The second part of the program was the Entertainment where the delegates displayed their skills and talents in singing, dancing, and many more to promote oneness.To conclude the event, a raffle draw was held as a token of gratitude.Nationwide, GPF is making its own mark in history. With many organizations slowly realizing the value of such affair, the foundation is getting bigger, wider every second of the day. Big events start with simple dreams. In Osaka, the marathon has just begun.

Special thanks to the following organizations:

Kobe International Baptist Church (KIBC)

International Youth Group Kakogawa

Himeji and Takasago Parish Council

Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ

4th Watch Osaka Local Ministry

International Family Friendship in Kansai (IFFIK)

Osaka Mabuhay Community (OMC)

Kadoma Philippine Friendship Association (KAPFA)

Metrobank Osaka Branch

Act Tourist, Co., Ltd.

Medcare Human

Filipino Japanese Movement for Global Peace Movement-Kansai

Love Nature Clean-Up (Nov.9)

Announcement:
1M Family Volunteer @ Arakawa River Clean-up
scheduled for Nov.9, 2008
As part of the GPF-Japan program, FJMGP will join other GPF peace partner organization in doing service for peace activity along the Arakawa River this coming Nov.9. FJMGP members outside Tokyo will be joining the series of clean-up activities on scheduled in each areas of different prefectures nationwide from now until Nov.13. It is a good opportunity to strengthen our families ties through working together with other families in serving our community and protecting the environment for everyone`s sake.
Click Here for Love Nature Clean-Up website
Date: November 9, 2008 Sunday
Time: 9:30 pm - 12:30 pm
Meeting Time: 9:20 am
Meeting Place: Horikiri Bridge


Access: 5 minutes walk from Horikiri Station of Tobu Isezaki Line

Bring: Working Gloves, Hand Towel
Wear: comfortable clothes , rubber shoes or working boots
FJMGP members, please wear our purple shirt , or anything purple
Other Filipino groups can wear purple too or your group’s shirt
Notes: Wear mask if you have allergies
Even if it rains, the clean Up is pushing thru, just bring raincoat and rain boots
If there are changes, it will be announced
Please confirm participation thru your coordinators or
contact Lala Hasegawa at fjmgp@yahoo.com

Thanks for reading.

Precy Akahori
FJMGP, Secretariat

Niigata Mini GPF

Mini GPF in Niigata
Kurosaki Shiminkaikan, Niigata
Oct 26,2008

Report By: Allan C. Cadano

Niigata peace advocates organized a peace rally last Sunday October 26 at Niigata City Kurosaki Civic Hall. Some organizations who called each other as peace-partners shared a common vision of not only appreciating peace but to build a world of peace starting from himself as an individual, to family level to community, nation, world and realize the global peace aimed.

Mrs.Angelita Obara together with her peacemates in FJMGP shared their perspectives in achieving peace by educating the many Filipino people in Japan through a so called mini global peace festival. She introduced her organization with the top of being a co-sponsor of Japan’s Global Peace Festival which will be held in Tokyo on November 15, 2008 at Ajinomoto Stadium.

Another speaker during the Niigata event was Mr. Brian Dirige who fathomed man desiring for peace. He correlated it to 3-D he called dream, desire and destiny. He declared peace as not isolation; equated true peace to unconditional love; that give and take action processes peace between man’s mind and body or between husband and wife.

The main speaker was a Japanese in the person of Mr. Mori Hayato. His realistic views about peace in man, in family were presented with some factors challenging peace in them. He correlated Aids to the absence of purity of love. He mentioned one case between students who have problems and teachers who use force that leads to violence as a contradiction to peace. He mentioned the tradition of Japanese as lover of nature, as people who live peacefully but lost these during and after the WWII. He strongly said that these need to be restored. Global Peace Festival is one way to make it restored and there will be GPF in every two years according to Universal Peace Federation which he leads in Niigata being one of the peace ambassadors in that place.
The event was polarized with good cultural numbers like the Salakot and tinikling dance from Philippine culture; the Hula and Okinawan Dance from Hawaii and Japan culture; the Martial Arts ballet of Tong Il Mo Do Martial Arts Club of Master Hoshiko sensie and some songs. All of them resemble peace in tune and movements as they were all heartily rendered and demonstrated to and for all.

All the peace messages are good to ponder when one brings it back home and shifts himself from being a peace-lover to peace-builder..The master of ceremony, Mr. Ronie delos Santos made very wonderful untiring job; the organizers in Niigata led by Mrs. Ethel Hayakawa including one mother Maricon who was craddling and taking care of her young child but untiringly served the audience with good foods, the fathers too who were around doing technical works behind, the registrar, Roselle, the errands, the drivers, the cook and volunteers and all who prefected their unity in making the event a real success.

The closing remarks was delivered by Allan Cadano who made a perfect re-cap of the whole event !
Mabuhay ang kapayapaan para sa buong mundo!!! Long live peace for the whole world.

Shizuoka Mini GPF

Mini- GPF Shizuoka 2008
Forest Hill , Guest House
October 19, 2008

A narrative report by: Rowena Dait Kobayashi

"In Glory Shared with Sacred Peak, Mt. Fuji, An Auspicious Start"
The wave of the success of mini-GPF in the different parts of Japan reach the City lying on the foot of Mt. Fuji. The city that was been nurtured and guarded by the sacred peak for a long time....The City of Fujinomiya, Shizuoka. Accepting the challenge to hold a Mini-GPF in our prefecture posed numerous responsibilities to tackle. But doing what we can, with what we have and where we are paved way to start something that can bring three families ( Cernardo, Shijo and Kobayashi) together, to work for a common goal. Not for Shizuoka to be left behind, to be part of this timely crusade for peaceful endeavor and to be able to catch GPF fever that is infectious so that it can be passed from one person to another, one place to another. Series of meeting were held planning for the venue, target date, target number of guest, speakers and other human resources , whose potentials and talents are required to make this event a great success.

We have chosen Forest Hill , Guest House the venue for the event. The place is overlooking Mt. Fuji. The symbol of Japan's formidable spirit. The ambience and the amenities are suitable for an initial activity such as this. First impression will last as they say, and we wanted to captivate a good impression from our guest and participants. This place can accommodate 120 guest but the actual number of participants attended reached 134.

The most awaited day has come. On October 19, 2008 guest coming from different walks of life, religious, educators, politician, friends and associates filled the hall. While waiting for the incoming guest, video presentation of the successful Phil. GPF 2007 and Phil. GPF2008 were shown to the guest as an starter for them to have an overview of what the gathering all about.

The program proper was formally opened with a doxology. Ms. Hiroko Ito played Okarina, accompanied by Ms. Remiko Sano on Keyboards in their melodious rendition of Amazing Grace. Ms. Aya Watai , a grade five elementary student shared her skillful ability as she played her violin.

Guest, friends and participants were warmly welcomed by Ms.Rowena D. Kobayashi, FJMGP-Shizuoka Coordinator. She posed the following challenge to the audience..." If we don't have a clear vision...WHAT then? If we will not be counted...WHO? If we will not start within us, within our family..WHERE? If we will not start now..WHEN?

Ms. Prescila Akahori-FJMGP Executive Secretary gave a detailed introduction of what FJMGP (Filipino- Japanese Movement for Global Peace) all about. Through the powerpoint presentation, she explained what the logo symbolizes, enumerated the goals and the different groups that serve as co-partners for peace. She too informed the audience about the different activities conducted and updated them with the Mini-GPF in the different prefectures of Japan. Her speech was spontaneous that the needed information about FJMGP was clearly explained.

Hawaian Dance number was spearheaded by Hirose Sensie. A hula dance instructor together with her friends. Their gentle and synchronized movement were awesome. They have proven that as one grow in years, the more graceful one should be.

Hon. Yoshihisa Okamura- Fuji City Councilor, started his speech greeting the audience in Tagalog." Magandang Hapon Po, Kumusta kayo?" For a Japanese City Councilor to speak even a bit of Tagalog is something. He delivered his speech in bilingual, English and Japanese. The center of his speech was his appreciation to the goals GPF and he expressed his willingness to take part in this notable endeavor.

A vocal solo by Jay V. Cartasano energized the participants in his breathtaking rendition of Sen No Kase ne Natte. A famous Japanese ballad sang by a famous Japanese tenor. Followed by a Filipino folkdance in the tune of "Itik-Itik" was performed by Saki and Miki Shijo.

FJMGP- President Ms. Angelita Obara delivered her powerpoint presentation on the Visions of GPF. She talked about the sad realities of present Japan and linked it to the 4 Themes of GPF. She gave her updates on the calendar of activities of the different GPF International and explained about 1,000,000 family voliunteer and the importance of 1 coin project. Her enthusiastic and dynamic presentation impressed the audience, much more to the delight of the Japanese members who need more enlightenment of what GPF is all about.

Mr. Kazuyoshi Kobayashi with his artistic expertise in the field of calligraphy wrote in a long calligraphic paper "Jenrui Ichi Kazuko" , "One Family" in English . People from the audience moved forward to witness his skillful use of brush.

The President of FJBFA ( Filipino Jaspanese Blessed Family Association) Mr. Ruben Cruz emphasized that we shouldn't be a mere expectator but a participant in such a historical peaceful endeavor. He also encouraged the audience to be part of Nov. 15 GPF Japan to held in Tokyo .

Ms. Lourdes Lee, in her golden voice joined by the audience in singing the Theme Song, " Where Peace Begin". She came all the way from Nagoya. In closing , Ms. Yasue Cernardo expressed her gratitude to all the guest and participants who inspite of their busy schedule made it for the event . She too announced the upcoming activity which is a volunteer activity at Ofuji Elementary School.

To make this event a memorable one, we had an outdoor picture taking overlooking Mt. Fuji. As the participants returned to the hall, they were welcomed with a song rendered by Ms. Elsie Fukasawa entitled "Biyahe Tayo". The main speaker surprised everybody when she joined Mr. Arnold Hiramis in a Martial Arts Ballet, in the tuned of "Eye of the Tiger". Mr. Arnold Hiramis was joined by his two energetic daughters as they performed another WHD ballet. How awesome to watch father - daughters tandem. Songs, dances and lively conversations filled the hall as the guest and participants enjoyed their sumptuous refreshments. The Masters of Ceremonies were Mr. Hiroyuki and Mrs. Elnes Shijo.

Our appreciation to all brothers and sisters who in one way or another extendended their assistance in making this event a great success. To Mr. and Mrs Arnold Hiramis and Family, Mr. and Mrs. Rommel Tayag, Mr. and Mrs. Bong Jarap and Family, Mr.and Mrs. Yukio Lee, Mr. Jun Flores, Mr. Ruben Cruz, Ms. Nora Magpantay, Ms. Angelita Obara, Ms. Prescila Akahori, Ms. Nakako Ito and Ms. Yoshimi, Mr. Joseph Cernardo who serve as an official cameraman.

FJMGP @ GPF promotion event in Osaka

Multicultural Festival of Youth 2008
& GPF Peace Partnership Agreement
Osaka


October 13, 2008

Angelita Obara, President of FJMGP and some members of FJMGP Osaka Chapter spear headed the Filipino community participants in the recently concluded Multicultural Festival of Youth 2008 in Osaka .This was preceded by the 4 mini GPFs organized by FJMGP which were hosted in Nagano, Saitama, Fukuoka and Miyazaki , all held on same day of Oct.12 . Right after her participating the International Leadership Conference in Tokyo, she has to fly over to Osaka to attend this big event with an audience of not less than a thousand. This is one of the ongoing GPF promotion initiatives in preparation of the incoming Nov.15 main event in Tokyo. FJMGP was one among the GPF partners that had helped in mobilizing such gathering of multi-cultural audience, majority of which are Japanese youth.

As part of this occassion , Mrs. Obara was one of the speakers of the Peace Partnership Agreement for international VIP participants where the theme is "Multi-cultural society starts from multi-cultural exchange youth". Prominent Filipino leaders in Osaka and nearby areas were invited by FJMGP brothers and sisters to attend this rally . Mrs. Obara delivered the message of FJMGP`s role in organizing the different Filipino community groups in Japan and what Filipinos can do to help advocate peace in this nation. As a model for other international groups in Japan, the multi-cultural population can become bridge of peace for Japanese to become part and engage in GPF`s big dream of One Family under God.

Nagano Mini GPF (Photo Report)

2nd Nagano Mini GPF
co-sponsored by UFPA/UFO/FJMGP

Suwako Heights, Sogo Fukushi Center

Oct,12, 2008

Photo By: Boy Navarro & Jun Granada

Another successful Mini GPF was held in Nagano after few months of launching last August participated by Filipino community in Nagano. NTT Communicatons and PNB(Philippine National Bank-Nagano branch) were the major sponsors. This whole day big event was held through the collaboration of peace partnership between UFO(United Filipino Organization), UFPA(United Filipino for Peace & Advancement) and FJMGP. The main program was held in the morning followed by entertainment through group dance and individual singing competition.

Detailed report will soon be posted and meanwhile, below pictures capture the bright spirit of one BIG FAMILY on a day of celebrating PEACE .

click here for more pictures :

Saitama Mini GPF

Mini GPF held in Saitama

Hotel Brillante Musashino, Kami Ochiai, Saitama-ken

Oct.12,2008

Report by : Lorie Shiokawa

Not to be outdone by the ongoing pre-Global Peace Festival all over Japan, the FJMGP-Saitama Chapter had organized and held a Mini-GPF withthe Theme:”One Global Family, One Heart, One Culture” last October 12, 2008 at the Audiovisual Seminar Room of With You Saitama Building, 4th Flr of Hotel Brillante Musashino, Kami Ochiai, Saitama-ken. The event was sponsored by the FJMGP-Saitama Chapter in collaboration with FJBFA Filipino Japanese Blessed Family Association and TIMD Tong-il Moodo Phillippines in Japan.

As early as 12:30 PM, people can be seen sitting and chatting happily on the benches outside the Seminar hall while guests kept on arriving as the usherettes welcomed them and the registration staff busy attending to them and distributing the participants’ kit which contained the well-prepared program, GPF flyer and a CD of the GPF Theme Song Where Peace Begins; all in just a 500 yen registration fee.

The doors of the Audiovisual Room opened at 1:15 PM, the seats were filled right away with some standing at the back and the program started at 1:30PM. Our very own, Mr. Reuben Cruz , the president of the FJBFA Filipino Japanese Blessed Family Association one handedly emceed the whole program which was opened by a heartwarming song of Ms. Karen Takahashi, the owner of Chance Club. The National Anthem was lead by Ms. Gina Hirayama of Omiya Catholic Filipino Community and followed by an Invocation of Ms. Marichu Suzuki of the Filipino Nazarene Church Family.

The smartly dressed Executive Secretary of the FJMGP, who also works with the Yokohama Board of Education, Ms. Priscila Akahori, introduced the Filipino Japanese Movement for Global Peace through a powerpoint, showing the group’s different activities in partnership with other organizations and the mini-GPF’s that were held in other parts of Japan so far.

The TIMD Kids with their masters Arnold Heramis and Alex Baguio rendered a remarkable martial arts performance called Form of Peace to the delight of the audience.

Then the opening remarks was given by Ms. Nancy Nishi of the IFA International Family Association. She touched the hearts of the listeners by her testimony of being a part of an international marriage. She is an American married to a Japanese, have 5 children and one grandchild, and a successful English teacher.

A GPF 2008 promotional video was shown and when the Philippine GPFs that were held in the different provinces especially Mindanao was viewed in the screen the Filipino participants in the audience can’t helped but be overwhelmed by the greatness of this project.

The highlight of the program was the message of the Keynote Speaker, Mr. Yuzaburo Sam Nagasaka, the project coordinator of the Global Peace Festival, and the official Japanese translator for Dr. Hyun Jin Moon, the founder and the main speaker of GPF. He has worked in various countries, counseling college students, advising and coordinating service and cultural projects. He spent a year with his family in the Philippines, as a consultant for W-CARP Philippines thus he felt at home with a Filipino audience that day.

He gave a meaningful explanation in of what the GPF is all about, how it started and presented through powerpoint the GPF events all over the world. He invited all the participants saying that “I remember your faces so I will look for you there in the Main Event on Nov. 15th”.

An intermission number was rendered by the teen Ms. Fumika Cruz, the talented daughter of Reuben and Masumi Cruz. She played the music of Amazing Grace through the clarinet. And it was indeed an amazing day for everyone .

The group then moved to the next room for the awaited snack time. Everyone was treated with a big muffin, macaroons, biko and a bottle of drink. While guests are having difficulty finishing up their muffins, the raffle draw started and winners of one sack of rice with groceries, CD Cassette Player, T-Fal Frying Pan and consolation prizes were all excited and happy with what they got to bring home.

The closing message was given by Mr. Kiyoshi Nishi, the President of the Biblical Study Forum for World Peace. He thanked the participants for coming and encouraged again everyone to attend the GPF on Nov. 15th.

The Certificate of Attendance was distributed and the event was capped with a group picture-taking. The event ended at around 5PM.

Congratulations to FJMGP- Saitama chapter for a job well-done. Around 150 participants . To all the GPF Saitama staff lead by Mr. Arnold Heramis, thank you very much for your efforts for a successful GPF in Saitama.

Fukuoka Mini GPF

Fukuoka Mini GPF
Onojo Madokapia Small Hall, Onojo City, Fukuoka
Oct. 12, 2008

Reported by: Jo-Ann Manzano Haga

Another successful GPF event was organized at the south part of Japan through the unconditional support of Kyuushu FJMGP family and International Family Association around the area. Helen Hamada, FJMGP Coordinator based in Kitakyushu City and Raffly Ablong, program committe leader , were among those FJMGP leaders who made sure the event was hosted successfully and smoothly.

Please browse over Jo-Ann`s detailed report below.

FUKUOKA, JAPAN- Right on cue, on October 12, the mini-Global Peace Festival- Fukuoka 2008 without fireworks nor clowns, staged its debut at the Madokapia Small Hall in the heart of Onojoh City.

Representatives of 15 countries trooped to the venue with a good number of staff and participants elegantly donning colorful national costumes and attires. Opening entertainment numbers performed by Ms. Emma Kuwano, a professional singer and another Filipina dancer raised the excitement for the gathering. At home on stage was Mr. Rafael Ablong as the master of ceremony and Ms. Ernie Kakehashi who came all the way from Sasebo, Nagasaki to give the closing remarks. The energetic duo masterfully presented to an estimated audience of more than a hundred, not including the many children , a simple but thunderous event that would later make participants to want for more.

Smartly clad in his native national costume, Mr. Boniface Nwabuisi , from Nigeria , offered an invocation prayer. This was followed by a short video introduction of what GPF is all about.

Filipino-Japanese Movement for Global Peace (FJMGP) Kyushu-A Coordinator Ms. Helen Hamada gave heartwarming welcome remarks which was followed by an awesome GPF Powerpoint Presentation in Japanese by Mr. Hirofumi Sato, Universal Peace Federation(UPF) representative from Fukuoka. Mrs. Akiko Han(Japanese-Korean couple ) delivered a very fine simultaneous translation into English. She also did translate into the Japanese language the guest speaker's English speech.

Filipinos and Friends in Fukuoka,(FFF), earlier agreed to grace the event with their professional dancers and what a well-rehearsed entertainment number that was. It really illuminated the small hall. The dancers' graceful performance of the popular Bulaklakan Flower dance and Philippine National dance Tinikling were met with loud applause .

One participant commented "Natsukashi... it has been a long time since she saw that kind-a-dance".

Ms. Patricia Hino(from Zimbabwe), head of the International Family Association (IFA) Fukuoka took the podium and gave a delightful introduction of the guest speaker. Throughout the course of preparation leading to the event , Ms. Hino was a force to reckon with, with her good vibes, positive oulook and unchanging missionary spirit. She really had put to good use her past mission experiences in Africa, United States and Japan.

Centering on the theme "Establishing a Culture of Peace in the Pacific Realm", the keynote speaker Reverend James Herdon , gave a moving , capturing lecture . To quote Mr. Ablong's description ..."The speaker's unique ability to connect to all kinds of people in the audience was a great eye-catcher and inspiration for the day. His very solid voice had a pacifying effect. He made points in the principle easier to understand by the participants".One FFF officer, Grace , also commented, "the speech content was very good, it should have been heard by more people". Talking about the speaker, he is a professor of philosophy at the Okinawa campus of Maryland University and serves also as Chaplain for US Military and Naval Forces based in Okinawa. He has been with the True Mother's Tour in the US. He showed to some staff his pictures with TP's, Hyun Jin Nim, Rev. Chang Shik Yang and poses with other top leaders of our movement.　He has done missions in the Philippines for six months, Korea 2 years, Thailand, India and other countries in Asia. He has traveled far and wide that in fact, the day after the event, he is to go to Korea by boat--alone. His song renditions before and after his speech was a give away that the appreciative audience really lapped it up.
Another participant Ms. Malou Hata quipped, " he has a very good voice and sang very well".

Everything went smoothly during the event even there was very little time to rehearse and prepare the participants and entertainers for the sequences.

Technically speaking, the team of Mr. Kunihiko Yoshiura, Jose Mbau, Harris Mulbah, and others were surely dependable. Neither a hitch here nor there , from gadgets to props, wires and all was encountered. By the time the Finale came, participants were already waving their hand-made flaglets and singing-along with the GPF Theme Song " Where Peace Begins"..

Certificates of Partnership were awarded by UPF with FJMGP to the participating groups and associations, and individuals like FFF, IFA, APTF.

If the success of the event could be measured by fahrenheit, might have been 39.4 degrees. A baby was that hot while her mother Cirila Ashina served as one of the receptionists. Remy Yoneyama , Emely Furukawa , Josephine Nishiyama and other 2 - 3 japanese ladies teamed up with Ms. Edna Hirae in receiving , ushering and helping guests. Sheryl Nakashima and husband was instrumental during the preparation phase of the venue and the entertainment.

Other figureheads that made the day truly remarkable were the committee chairs and members who offered so much internal and external conditions , notwithstanding perseverance, patience and faith. Mr. John Santillan, who along with Mr. Santiago Baltazar who served as liaison and transportation officers said the oft-quoted lines " It was like being a full-time member once again ". Every bit of it maybe, as he did his route without the luxury of any lunch.Josefina Nakamoto jumped ship at the last minute and ended up as 'mother figure' at the kid's room, along with Mrs. Baltazar, and some volunteer japanese ladies, too.

To cap the festival, a very relaxed after-event dinner that overflowed with Costco's eternal favorites... rottiserrie chicken, paella, salads, fruits and drinks . Haga family's delivery of the goods was timed right when everyone was already literally starved and fatigued. The cutting of the cake was done with an enjoyable chorus of 'Happy Victory Everyone'. International group was appreciated to have done something something very remarkable and promised to extend help as much as it is needed.

The event went on like a whirlwind- in contrast to the monthlong preparation beforehand that had trimmings of snafu's, loopholes, surprises , twists and turns. It may not be perfect, but the people made up for it , their unaccounted volumes of prayers especially --- absentees included.

Thanks to below working committe of the event:
Secretariat - Joy Kikuchi & Mrs. Jo-ann Haga
Finance - Kazuyo Ablong & Remy Yoneyama
Reception - Edna Hirae
Translation- Mrs. Akiko Han & Patricia Hino
Stage, Lights & Sounds – Kunihiko Yoshiura & Isao Nakashima
Program – Raffy Ablong
Entertainment - Sheryl Nakashima
Liaison & Transportation –John Santillan & Santiago Baltazar
Safety & Security –Kikuchi & Joey Jimenez
Video & Photography - . Boniface Nwabuisi
Children’s Welfare – Misako Baltazar & Mrs. Nwabuisi