Pinoy immigrants must have the right skills

Coffee and coconut oil were once upon a time considered as health enemies. They were both victims of negative publicity for several years and suffered accordingly by being scorned by consumers worldwide. But researchers and scientists in Canada and the USA now believe that they are really not that bad after all and are not totally responsible for clogged arteries and heart problems. We have talked about coffee last week and it’s time for coconut oil. The new findings may help revive the coconut industry in the Philippines.

The new book "The Miracles of Coconut Oil" presents the latest data that supports the many beneficial properties of coconut oil and correct the misperception that coconut oil contains unhealthy saturated fats. It is a fact that in the ’60s and ’70s, polyunsaturated oils such as corn oils were widely accepted as being protective against heart diseases, and people were advised to switch from eating butter to margarine in order to lower cholesterol levels.

The much criticized coconut oil is now being praised for the following benefits:

• Does not increase blood cholesterol levels

• Does not contribute to weight problems

• Reduces risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease

• Reduces risk of cancer and other degenerative conditions

• Helps to heal wounds and reduce acne

• Aids in the control of diabetes

And there are more benefits and now coconut oil is being called "the healthiest dietary oil on earth." Why does it seem that there is so much conflicting data about saturated fats found in coconut oil?

The most powerful force in business today in Canada is emerging fast in the marketplace. No, it is not North America’s aging population commonly known as the baby boomers who are now preparing for their golden years. While it is still profitable to focus on products and services aimed at mature lifestyles and the hipsters at the height of their spending powers (18 to 30 age group), the second biggest and influential age bracket in North America is currently between 10 and 19. There are supposedly over 42 million in the US and 4.3 million in Canada, representing about 14 percent of the population.

These are the children of the younger boomers and are sometimes referred to as the echo generation. They have disposable/discretionary money to spend because they still live and eat at home. These kids can wield their preferences in the marketplace. Various surveys estimated that Canadian kids direct as much as $20 billion in consumer spending annually in Canada.

The echo generation are into Apple computer and iPods, cellphones, cosmetics, horror movies, clothes, fast food, magazines, video games, music and lots of clothes and grooming products. They are the new big spenders.

Vancouver was number one in the don’t miss destination in a survey that asked Canadians which of their cities they would recommend to a tourist. Quebec City came in as second while Niagara Falls, Ontario was chosen as the country’s most romantic destination by nearly one in four Canadians. Niagara Falls also topped in the category of Canada’s "wonders." As for Canada’s most stylish locale, it is Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver and Quebec City.

The Royal Bank positively indicated that British Columbia’s economy will post solid growth this year (4 percent growth) along with Alberta with sharply rising employment led by resources, services and construction. But it is not all roses.

On the downside, B.C.’s employers are reporting increasing difficulty finding quality and skilled young workers who are reliable and have appropriate skills, a positive attitude and a good work ethic. To be ready, fresh off the plane Filipino immigrants should be aware of what skills Canadian employer/business owners expect from job seekers.

• Adequate skill levels such as arriving on time for work, basic math knowledge and dressing and acting appropriately for work.

• Not to expect high-paying jobs and long job-training program if any at all. No major benefits should be expected for newcomers in small companies.

• Excellent communication skills in English, both verbal and written.

Filipinos enjoy high employment rates in Canada. Among the visible minority groups, Filipinos aged 15 to 64 are considerably more likely to be employed than those in other groups.