PCC started its Computer Training Program in November 2005 to empower our fellow kababayans in this fast changing technological society. Since then, three sessions were completed. PCC has helped a total of 50 Filipino-Canadians including 6 seniors to become computer literate. PCC received over 50 registrations, but due to limited space and volunteer instructors, only a few were accommodated per session, the others are placed in a waiting list and given priority for the next session. More and more people, the majority are new migrants; continue to express interest in enrolling in the program and advance courses. This is the more reason why our community needs a Centre, a bigger space so that we could accommodate this increasing need.

The Basic Computer Course under the tutelages of Dan de Castro and Edwin Acuna, our tireless volunteers and Information Technology experts, is held every Saturday at 1336 Labrie Street, Ottawa. This is an 8-week course and offered in the morning from 10-12 and 2-4 in the afternoon. The students enjoy learning in the comfort of our native tongue. Students are evaluated through short quizzes or exams. At the end of each session, the students evaluate the program and their instructors and give us feedback. Students’ evaluations indicate the need to continue the program and look forward for more advance courses. PCC is committed to providing this service to assist those who wish to learn and/or improve their knowledge and skills in Computer and thus, give them more opportunities to advance in their future employment or endeavors. It is evident that the medium of communication in this century is high tech. Computer knowledge is the tool and PCC will help provide this tool to all ages as long as the support of the community exists and we are able to recruit more volunteer instructors.

PCC is very proud to present the graduates of the Winter Session, which was held on April 8, 2006 at St. Brigid’s Church and was blessed by his Excellency Ambassador Jose Brillantes. The following students have satisfactorily completed the Basic Computer Training Program and were presented Certificate of Completion.

Josie Bocboc, Fely Cardenas, Maritess Cardenas, Pilar Cuaresma. Rosa Maria Miranda, Brenda Parayno, Merlinda Buco, Rita Lynn G. Aquino, Amelia Fajardo, Aidenia S. Lebanan, Gloria Ong, Rose Palecpec, Maria Joy Saramiento and Clarissa Velasquez.

The Spring Session 2006 ended on June 10th. Certificate of Completion will be presented to the following students who also have satisfactorily completed the course at the Centurion Place in conjunction with the 108th celebration of our Philippine Independence on June 16th:

Cynthia Bernardo, Anita Bolos, Wilma Sepnio, Teotista G. Manangan, Adelaida Mercado, Maria Jocelyn de la Pena, Wilma Rioflorido, Celia Flor de la Cruz, Daisy La Estrella, Nilda Abuan, Esther Agriam, Teresita Bumolo, Maria Leonora Tereasa Sernande, Ednaline Perlac and Florita Privaldos.

A well deserved congratulations to all students. Their quest and enthusiasm for continued learning is commendable. The board of Directors of PCC and its dedicated instructors are very happy to be a part of your learning process. It is our desire to offer more skill development courses in the near future. For this reason, PCC actively continue its fundraising for a Centre that will serve as a multi-purpose facility, a resource center for more education and training like our Computer Training Program and other information sessions. This venue will also be a place for our Seniors, Youth, New Migrants to enjoy each other’s camaraderie and a place where we can all call as our second home. The board acknowledges with thanks the help of the volunteer students and other members of the community in PCC’s fundraising efforts. We appeal to our community to take a more active role in furthering the mission of PCC. Let the PCC services continue.

Enrollment for our Fall Basic Computer session has started. If you are interested to enroll and/or require more information, please contact one of the following board of directors: Tessie Morin at 561-2894; Nora Cote at 568-0071, Sonia del Rosario at 825-6314 and Maya Flores-Lyons at 228-9325. We will accept registration at Vincent Massey Park on June 18th during the Philippine Independence Picnic. If you wish to volunteer as instructor, we want to hear from you.

Enjoy safe and comfortable summer!