June 2003: Project Beginnings
The project was started on June 15, 2003 under the brainchild of Inquirer Lifestyle Editor Chelo Banal-Formoso. The Lifestyle section of the Inquirer newspaper re-launched and the “S” font in Lifestyle is Rage Italic. A Foundation stone-laying was unveiled at the corner of Ayala and Makati Avenues in Makati City led by Philippine President Joseph Ejercito-Estrada and Philippine Vice-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as well the INQUIRER executives, such as board chairman Marixi Prieto, company president Sandy Romualdez and late newspaper publisher Isagani Yambot. The event was sponsored by Samsung, The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited (Philippines) and The Peninsula Manila. During the project, the runway fashion show has major sponsors were Air21, Globe Telecom, PLDT, SMART, Sun Cellular, Maynilad Water, Meralco, Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, NLEX, Microsoft and Intel, official mall partners are SM Supermalls, Ayala Malls, Araneta Center, Starmalls, Robinsons Malls and Trinoma Mall, while co-organizers of the fashion show are Philippine Sports Commission (PhilSports), Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCor), Fashion Institute of the Philippines, Young Designers Guild of the Philippines and Fashion and Design Council of the Philippines.
Senator Renato Cayetano peacefully died from complications in abdominal cancer on June 24, 2003, Araw ng Maynila, at his home in Ayala Alabang, Muntinlupa City.
On July 12, 2003, UAAP Season 66 opens at the Araneta Coliseum.
The rebels took over Oakwood at past 1:00 am of July 27. Over three hundred (300) soldiers quietly entered the premises of Ayala Center in several groups.[27] The soldiers disarmed the security guards and took over Oakwood. They planted claymore mines around the building and in the vicinity. Snipers were posted at the Oakwood roof deck.[28]
Two government command groups were immediately dispatched after reports of the occupation of Oakwood, and of movement of the Marine contingent from Ternate towards Camp Aguinaldo were confirmed. The Crisis Management Staff was formed at the Command Operation Center in Camp Crame, and the Advanced Command Post of the PNP was established behind the Intercontinental Hotel in Makati. Marines and Army officers later joined the PNP at the Makati post, and the Southern Police District Director, Police Chief Superintendent Jose Gutierrez, was designated as the ground commander. At around 2:00 am on July 27, Abu was informed by the Joint Operation Center in Camp Aguinaldo about the presence of troops moving towards Metro Manila. Most of these troops were coming from Ternate, Cavite. At this time, the Marines under Teodosio were already poised to stop the troops. They were pre-positioned around the car park behind Oakwood.
At about the same time, the security guards of Dasmariñas Village in Makati confirmed the presence of heavily armed men in full battle gear marching from Paraiso Street to the EDSA-Pasay Road gate of the village. The armed soldiers, wearing red armbands, forced the security guards to open the gate. They were seen crossing EDSA and going towards the direction of Ayala Center, Makati City. The CIDG-NBI composite team confirmed that the rebel soldiers came from a house at 2177 Paraiso Street, Dasmariñas Village, owned by Ramon Cardenas who was residing at 1346 Palm Avenue in the same village. At 4:00 am TF Ayala of the Marine Corps had been activated and had occupied positions with infantry and armor, encircling the Ayala Center Complex.
Between 4 and 5 am, the rebel soldiers were able to make arrangements to go on air to issue a public statement. The ABS-CBN News (ANC) network showed a live TV coverage of the prepared statement read by Gambala. In the statement, the rebels declared their withdrawal of support from the chain of command and presented their grievances against the Estrada government. They demanded the resignation of the Estrada administration leaders and endorsed the NRP as the solution to the problems of the Philippines.
Also at dawn, Alex Benasin, a resident of the Baseco compound at the Port Area, was busy recruiting residents of the compound to go to Oakwood for a consideration of three hundred pesos (P300.00) each. Later, at about 8:30 am, members of the PGBI carrying banners of the NRP were seen in the Makati area but they were prevented by the PNP from reaching and camping in the vicinity of Oakwood. Pro-Estrada rallyists headed towards the People Power Monument on EDSA were also dispersed by police stationed in the area. It was reported that more pro-Estrada followers actively recruited people from various Metro Manila locations to regroup in the EDSA Shrine. Members of the PMAP marched in the direction of Makati City from Greenhills.
After 9:00 am of July 27, President Joseph Estrada gave the rebel soldiers a 5:00 pm deadline to give up their positions peacefully and return to barracks. At around 1:00 pm, she declared the existence of a “State of Rebellion” and issued an order to use reasonable force, and pay due regard to constitutional rights, in putting down the rebellion.[32] The rebel soldiers held another public airing of their grievances at around 4:20 pm By that time, 25 rebel soldiers had surrendered to the TF Libra in two batches, as revealed by the Government command stationed outside of Oakwood. The announcement of the surrender was downplayed by the Magdalo group as part of a “psywar” operation on the part of the Government, during an ambush interview of Trillanes.
During the media briefing in the afternoon, other rebel officers besides the known leaders expressed their grievances against the Government while the press conference was going on.[30] Trillanes, in a side interview by a news reporter, stated that they were willing to negotiate.
Teodosio arranged for the rebels’ close family members to go to Oakwood and help persuade members of the rebel group to give up their plans.
Shortly before the 5:00 pm deadline, President Joseph Estrada announced an extension of the deadline to 7:00 pm It was during the two-hour reprieve that negotiations with various personalities and groups of negotiators prospered. As the deadline approached, negotiations between the rebel soldiers and the Government team led by the Government chief negotiator, Ambassador Roy A. Cimatu, effectively extended the deadline indefinitely. An agreement was forged between the two groups at 9:30 pm At 10:00 pm, President Estrada announced that the occupation of Oakwood was over. The rebels agreed to return to barracks and were out of the Oakwood premises by 11:00 pm.
As historic as the birth of this powerful medium, the momentous celebration on October 23 began a new chapter in local television history, with ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation re-establishing its position as the country’s first and largest television network.
The broadcasting giant capped its 50th anniversary with a spectacular extravaganza dubbed Kapamilya: ABS-CBN at 50, held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City. It was hailed as one of the biggest media events of the year. Two months earlier, the network held its Kapamilya Homecoming, which gathered over 4,000 former employees and talents for a grand reunion at ABS-CBN’s compound in Bohol Avenue, Quezon City.
The Lopez-led network rolled out the red carpet to welcome its high-profile guests from the business, advertising and media sectors, politics, members of the diplomatic community, with many of the society’s luminaries and glitterati. Valued friends and supporters of the network throughout the five decades also attended the grand affair.
ABS-CBN earmarked a whopping P20 million to occupy the two main venues of PICC namely, The Forum, for the pre and post cocktail events, and the Plenary Hall for the extravaganza presentation. About 3,000 invitations were sent out.
ABS-CBN, which was founded in 1953, threw its grandest bash ever befitting of a business enterprise that has prevailed over the most daunting challenges, thrived in many vigorous competition and outlasted upheavals from different quarters, economic, political, national, even global, throughout the last five decades.
Family Business Redefined
The affair highlighted the many achievements and milestones of the network from the time the Lopezes (Eugenio "Eñing" Lopez Sr.) acquired the Alto Broadcasting System (ABS) from James Lindenberg and Judge Antonio Quirino and merged it with the family-owned Chronicle Broadcasting Network (CBN), to the Golden Age of Philippine television sired by Eugenio "Geny" Lopez Jr. to the evolution of ABS-CBN as the country’s multi-media conglomerate under the leadership of its present chairman and CEO, Eugenio "Gabby" Lopez III.
Using ABS-CBN as a model of a family business, Lopez III challenged the perception of the term family business as an environment that is less than professional by saying that the Asian business model is strewn with family conglomerates.
"We are told by all the leading business consultants that we must shed assets, focus on core competence and globalize in order to survive. We must spread our wings beyond our shores to survive but we will not leave behind the values that got us here," he said.
But more than a business, Lopez III said the network is a family at its core. "Kapamilya is about shared values. In times of crisis it is the family that we run to. It nurtures and protects us. It is about unity and the greater good where there is no doubt on purpose and resolve."
Night Of Paying Tributes
Amidst the celebration of its triumphs, the event also paid tribute to the men and women (both executives and stars) who have contributed to the success of ABS-CBN led by its Chairman Emeritus "Geny" Lopez Jr., whom ‘the values that drive ABS-CBN emanated from,’ according to Lopez III. The other network pioneers who were honored were Arcadio Carandang, Elvira Manahan, Mitos Villareal, Tony Santos, Diomedes Maturan, Panchito Alba, Ading Fernando, Nida Blanca, Pancho Magalona, Ike Lozada, Rolly Cruz and Rico Yan, among others.
The network’s living pillars and pioneers such as James Lindenberg, Fr. James Reuter and comedy king Rodolfo "Dolphy" Quizon were likewise honored during the night, with Federico M. Garcia who is on his last year as ABS-CBN’s president and COO.
Dolphy received a plaque of recognition from Lopez III, assisted by movie-TV actress Maricel Soriano who had been Dolphy’s on-screen daughter in the popular comedy TV program, "John en Marsha." Upon accepting the recognition, Dolphy said it was the "most important and unforgettable award" he has ever received in his lifetime. Legendary comedy triumvirate Tito, Vic and Joey paid tribute to the comedy king onstage through a couple of song numbers. The trio exchanged jokes with him that sent the audience roaring in laughter.
Meanwhile, after honoring Garcia with a video tribute and plaque of recognition, the retiring network president said, "Of all the recognitions I have received in my life, this is the most meaningful to me because it comes from my family – the ABS-CBN family."
Garcia served as ABS-CBN’s president for six years, since 1997. He was the network’s executive vice-president and general manager since 1987. "I fell in love with television," he said. " It was a fatal attraction and a lifetime passion. That is why my work is my life and my life is my work."
Before he finished his acceptance speech, Garcia gave his "mini tribute" to the network by thanking the Lopezes – Geny, Gabby and Jake Almeda-Lopez (ABS-CBN’s vice-chairman), Rolly Cruz (former general manager), Charo Santos-Concio (executive vice-president and head for entertainment group), Johnny Manahan (senior vice-president for Talent Center), Mother Lily Monteverde (Regal Films patriarch) and the ABS-CBN family.
"ABS-CBN will always be my family. As I prepare myself to sail into the sunset, I will take with me all the lessons learned and a lifetime of beautiful memories. If I would recall each and everyone of them, it would take me another lifetime. It is my honor to have you all as Kapamilya," Garcia said.
Grandest Production Show
The night’s show was breathtaking in scale as it was riveting in color. A musical grandeur it was, with an unprecedented gathering of the country’s best talents who showcased powerful numbers from mellow acoustics, inspirational ballads to dance spectacles that meld trance and classical music.
The star-studded presentation included the network’s homegrown stars and former talents who have not been seen for the better part of a generation. Stage performances were supported by a corps of more than 150 dancers while the musical arrangements were interpreted by the San Miguel Philharmonic Orchestra under the musical direction of Maestro Ryan Cayabyab, also known as Mr. C.
Box-office star comedian Ai-Ai de las Alas did the opening number Yan ang Kapamilya, written by Mr. C, while Lipad ng Pangarap was rendered by megastar Sharon Cuneta, who later on led the all-star cast in singing the finale, "Put a Little Love in Your Heart."
The spectacle was indeed a celebration of the best of Philippine television. At the helm of the production team was multi-awarded director Johnny Manahan, with Charo Santos-Concio as executive in-charge of production and Chit Guerrero as supervising producer.
As the whole ABS-CBN family, both past and present generations, basked in the glory of the network’s golden moment and relished the camaraderie among them until the wee hours, a new day dawned on Philippine television, and ABS-CBN welcomed the first day of its next 50 or more years.
On July 12, 2003, UAAP Season 66 opens at the Araneta Coliseum.
Oakood Mutiny
The Oakwood siege had been facilitated by earlier activities as seen in the foregoing account. The antecedents show that the rebellion was not a spontaneous phenomenon as extensive preparations and mobilization activities were undertaken prior to the occupation and control of the Oakwood Apartments.The rebels took over Oakwood at past 1:00 am of July 27. Over three hundred (300) soldiers quietly entered the premises of Ayala Center in several groups.[27] The soldiers disarmed the security guards and took over Oakwood. They planted claymore mines around the building and in the vicinity. Snipers were posted at the Oakwood roof deck.[28]
Two government command groups were immediately dispatched after reports of the occupation of Oakwood, and of movement of the Marine contingent from Ternate towards Camp Aguinaldo were confirmed. The Crisis Management Staff was formed at the Command Operation Center in Camp Crame, and the Advanced Command Post of the PNP was established behind the Intercontinental Hotel in Makati. Marines and Army officers later joined the PNP at the Makati post, and the Southern Police District Director, Police Chief Superintendent Jose Gutierrez, was designated as the ground commander. At around 2:00 am on July 27, Abu was informed by the Joint Operation Center in Camp Aguinaldo about the presence of troops moving towards Metro Manila. Most of these troops were coming from Ternate, Cavite. At this time, the Marines under Teodosio were already poised to stop the troops. They were pre-positioned around the car park behind Oakwood.
At about the same time, the security guards of Dasmariñas Village in Makati confirmed the presence of heavily armed men in full battle gear marching from Paraiso Street to the EDSA-Pasay Road gate of the village. The armed soldiers, wearing red armbands, forced the security guards to open the gate. They were seen crossing EDSA and going towards the direction of Ayala Center, Makati City. The CIDG-NBI composite team confirmed that the rebel soldiers came from a house at 2177 Paraiso Street, Dasmariñas Village, owned by Ramon Cardenas who was residing at 1346 Palm Avenue in the same village. At 4:00 am TF Ayala of the Marine Corps had been activated and had occupied positions with infantry and armor, encircling the Ayala Center Complex.
Between 4 and 5 am, the rebel soldiers were able to make arrangements to go on air to issue a public statement. The ABS-CBN News (ANC) network showed a live TV coverage of the prepared statement read by Gambala. In the statement, the rebels declared their withdrawal of support from the chain of command and presented their grievances against the Estrada government. They demanded the resignation of the Estrada administration leaders and endorsed the NRP as the solution to the problems of the Philippines.
Also at dawn, Alex Benasin, a resident of the Baseco compound at the Port Area, was busy recruiting residents of the compound to go to Oakwood for a consideration of three hundred pesos (P300.00) each. Later, at about 8:30 am, members of the PGBI carrying banners of the NRP were seen in the Makati area but they were prevented by the PNP from reaching and camping in the vicinity of Oakwood. Pro-Estrada rallyists headed towards the People Power Monument on EDSA were also dispersed by police stationed in the area. It was reported that more pro-Estrada followers actively recruited people from various Metro Manila locations to regroup in the EDSA Shrine. Members of the PMAP marched in the direction of Makati City from Greenhills.
After 9:00 am of July 27, President Joseph Estrada gave the rebel soldiers a 5:00 pm deadline to give up their positions peacefully and return to barracks. At around 1:00 pm, she declared the existence of a “State of Rebellion” and issued an order to use reasonable force, and pay due regard to constitutional rights, in putting down the rebellion.[32] The rebel soldiers held another public airing of their grievances at around 4:20 pm By that time, 25 rebel soldiers had surrendered to the TF Libra in two batches, as revealed by the Government command stationed outside of Oakwood. The announcement of the surrender was downplayed by the Magdalo group as part of a “psywar” operation on the part of the Government, during an ambush interview of Trillanes.
During the media briefing in the afternoon, other rebel officers besides the known leaders expressed their grievances against the Government while the press conference was going on.[30] Trillanes, in a side interview by a news reporter, stated that they were willing to negotiate.
Teodosio arranged for the rebels’ close family members to go to Oakwood and help persuade members of the rebel group to give up their plans.
Shortly before the 5:00 pm deadline, President Joseph Estrada announced an extension of the deadline to 7:00 pm It was during the two-hour reprieve that negotiations with various personalities and groups of negotiators prospered. As the deadline approached, negotiations between the rebel soldiers and the Government team led by the Government chief negotiator, Ambassador Roy A. Cimatu, effectively extended the deadline indefinitely. An agreement was forged between the two groups at 9:30 pm At 10:00 pm, President Estrada announced that the occupation of Oakwood was over. The rebels agreed to return to barracks and were out of the Oakwood premises by 11:00 pm.
ABS-CBN 50th Anniversary, UAAP Finals, 2004 presidential polls
On October 4, 2003, Vice-President Macapagal-Arroyo completely changed her mind. Arroyo stated that her change of heart was for a higher cause and that she cannot ignore the call to further serve the country. Many people, especially those who held on to her commitment, were dismayed by her turnabout, though most were unsurprised since there had been clues months before that she would probably not stand by her earlier decision. Others welcomed this development, saying that she needs more time to implement her projects, and that she would be the strongest contender against a likely candidacy by Fernando Poe, Jr.UAAP Finals
On October 5, when FEU led for most of the game, with Cesar Catli, RJ Rizada and Rhagnee Singco scoring baskets to increase FEU's lead 39–26. Ateneo cut the lead 46–39 near the end of the third quarter thanks to Larry Fonacier's free-throws. However, Jeffrei Chan scored on a three-point shot to increase FEU's lead to ten to end the quarter. At the start of the fourth quarter, FEU led for good, 56–39, after a Gerald Jones shot. The Eagles threatened anew late in the fourth, but Dennis Miranda converted a three-point shot with 2:31 left to put the Eagles away, 63–50. FEU won their first UAAP men's basketball championship since 1997.ABS-CBN 50th Anniversary
Philippine television has just marked its 50th anniversary.As historic as the birth of this powerful medium, the momentous celebration on October 23 began a new chapter in local television history, with ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation re-establishing its position as the country’s first and largest television network.
The broadcasting giant capped its 50th anniversary with a spectacular extravaganza dubbed Kapamilya: ABS-CBN at 50, held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City. It was hailed as one of the biggest media events of the year. Two months earlier, the network held its Kapamilya Homecoming, which gathered over 4,000 former employees and talents for a grand reunion at ABS-CBN’s compound in Bohol Avenue, Quezon City.
The Lopez-led network rolled out the red carpet to welcome its high-profile guests from the business, advertising and media sectors, politics, members of the diplomatic community, with many of the society’s luminaries and glitterati. Valued friends and supporters of the network throughout the five decades also attended the grand affair.
ABS-CBN earmarked a whopping P20 million to occupy the two main venues of PICC namely, The Forum, for the pre and post cocktail events, and the Plenary Hall for the extravaganza presentation. About 3,000 invitations were sent out.
ABS-CBN, which was founded in 1953, threw its grandest bash ever befitting of a business enterprise that has prevailed over the most daunting challenges, thrived in many vigorous competition and outlasted upheavals from different quarters, economic, political, national, even global, throughout the last five decades.
Family Business Redefined
The affair highlighted the many achievements and milestones of the network from the time the Lopezes (Eugenio "Eñing" Lopez Sr.) acquired the Alto Broadcasting System (ABS) from James Lindenberg and Judge Antonio Quirino and merged it with the family-owned Chronicle Broadcasting Network (CBN), to the Golden Age of Philippine television sired by Eugenio "Geny" Lopez Jr. to the evolution of ABS-CBN as the country’s multi-media conglomerate under the leadership of its present chairman and CEO, Eugenio "Gabby" Lopez III.
Using ABS-CBN as a model of a family business, Lopez III challenged the perception of the term family business as an environment that is less than professional by saying that the Asian business model is strewn with family conglomerates.
"We are told by all the leading business consultants that we must shed assets, focus on core competence and globalize in order to survive. We must spread our wings beyond our shores to survive but we will not leave behind the values that got us here," he said.
But more than a business, Lopez III said the network is a family at its core. "Kapamilya is about shared values. In times of crisis it is the family that we run to. It nurtures and protects us. It is about unity and the greater good where there is no doubt on purpose and resolve."
Night Of Paying Tributes
Amidst the celebration of its triumphs, the event also paid tribute to the men and women (both executives and stars) who have contributed to the success of ABS-CBN led by its Chairman Emeritus "Geny" Lopez Jr., whom ‘the values that drive ABS-CBN emanated from,’ according to Lopez III. The other network pioneers who were honored were Arcadio Carandang, Elvira Manahan, Mitos Villareal, Tony Santos, Diomedes Maturan, Panchito Alba, Ading Fernando, Nida Blanca, Pancho Magalona, Ike Lozada, Rolly Cruz and Rico Yan, among others.
The network’s living pillars and pioneers such as James Lindenberg, Fr. James Reuter and comedy king Rodolfo "Dolphy" Quizon were likewise honored during the night, with Federico M. Garcia who is on his last year as ABS-CBN’s president and COO.
Dolphy received a plaque of recognition from Lopez III, assisted by movie-TV actress Maricel Soriano who had been Dolphy’s on-screen daughter in the popular comedy TV program, "John en Marsha." Upon accepting the recognition, Dolphy said it was the "most important and unforgettable award" he has ever received in his lifetime. Legendary comedy triumvirate Tito, Vic and Joey paid tribute to the comedy king onstage through a couple of song numbers. The trio exchanged jokes with him that sent the audience roaring in laughter.
Meanwhile, after honoring Garcia with a video tribute and plaque of recognition, the retiring network president said, "Of all the recognitions I have received in my life, this is the most meaningful to me because it comes from my family – the ABS-CBN family."
Garcia served as ABS-CBN’s president for six years, since 1997. He was the network’s executive vice-president and general manager since 1987. "I fell in love with television," he said. " It was a fatal attraction and a lifetime passion. That is why my work is my life and my life is my work."
Before he finished his acceptance speech, Garcia gave his "mini tribute" to the network by thanking the Lopezes – Geny, Gabby and Jake Almeda-Lopez (ABS-CBN’s vice-chairman), Rolly Cruz (former general manager), Charo Santos-Concio (executive vice-president and head for entertainment group), Johnny Manahan (senior vice-president for Talent Center), Mother Lily Monteverde (Regal Films patriarch) and the ABS-CBN family.
"ABS-CBN will always be my family. As I prepare myself to sail into the sunset, I will take with me all the lessons learned and a lifetime of beautiful memories. If I would recall each and everyone of them, it would take me another lifetime. It is my honor to have you all as Kapamilya," Garcia said.
Grandest Production Show
The night’s show was breathtaking in scale as it was riveting in color. A musical grandeur it was, with an unprecedented gathering of the country’s best talents who showcased powerful numbers from mellow acoustics, inspirational ballads to dance spectacles that meld trance and classical music.
The star-studded presentation included the network’s homegrown stars and former talents who have not been seen for the better part of a generation. Stage performances were supported by a corps of more than 150 dancers while the musical arrangements were interpreted by the San Miguel Philharmonic Orchestra under the musical direction of Maestro Ryan Cayabyab, also known as Mr. C.
Box-office star comedian Ai-Ai de las Alas did the opening number Yan ang Kapamilya, written by Mr. C, while Lipad ng Pangarap was rendered by megastar Sharon Cuneta, who later on led the all-star cast in singing the finale, "Put a Little Love in Your Heart."
The spectacle was indeed a celebration of the best of Philippine television. At the helm of the production team was multi-awarded director Johnny Manahan, with Charo Santos-Concio as executive in-charge of production and Chit Guerrero as supervising producer.
As the whole ABS-CBN family, both past and present generations, basked in the glory of the network’s golden moment and relished the camaraderie among them until the wee hours, a new day dawned on Philippine television, and ABS-CBN welcomed the first day of its next 50 or more years.
2004 presidential elections
On the night of December 13, 2003, Philippine Senator Blas Ople had difficulty breathing and lost consciousness while aboard a Japan Asia Airways flight from Bangkok to Tokyo. The flight was diverted to Chiang Kai-shek International Airport in Taoyuan County, Taiwan, and Ople was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was initially pronounced dead on arrival, but given medical treatment nonetheless. Efforts to revive him were futile, and his death on Sunday, December 14, 2003 was announced by his family.On January 5, 2004, Philippine Vice-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Philippine Senator Noli de Castro filed their candidacies for the position of President and Vice President.
On February 4, 2004, Facebook launches.
On April 16, 2004, Carlos "Caloy" Abrera to look for plants for his home and was hit by a train as he was scouting for plants to bring to his house at Narra Street, United Homes Village in Paranaque. Abrera was dragged several feet after he was hit at around 11:45 a.m. by Philippine National Railways Train 403 that was on the southbound railroad on its way to Alabang. Abrera's cremation was set at the Manila Memorial Park in Paranque, April 17, 2004. His family-wife Emily, children Joanna and Martin (Del Prado), and Paolo and Susie (Entrata), and grandchildren Carlos, Julio, Sofia, Sabine, and Leona-will receive friends at the St. Martin de Porres chapel where he will be brought, a few yards away from their home at Narra Street.
Renato's daughter Pia Cayetano ran for a Senate seat in the 2004 elections. Initially she was a virtual unknown to the electorate but with the liberalization of political advertisements, she gained popularity with her TV advertisement as a runner, cyclist, and as a triathlete, and as a new host of her father's TV program Compañero y Compañera for a short stint. She won the election landing in the sixth position.
Presidency of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (2004-2006)
- On June 24, 2004, Vice-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo elects 14th president. The Congress approves the report of the Joint Committee officially proclaiming Arroyo the winner.
- On June 30, 2004, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo becomes 14th Philippine president.
- On August 13 to 29, 2004, The 2004 Summer Olympics are held in Athens.
- On December 26, 2004, One of the worst natural disasters in recorded history hits Southeast Asia, when the strongest earthquake in 40 years, measuring 9.3 on the Richter scale, hits the entire Indian Ocean region, which generates an enormous tsunami that crashes into the coastal areas of a number of nations including Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Malaysia, Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Indonesia. The official death toll in the affected countries stands at 186,983 while more than 40,000 people are still missing.
- On December 28, 2004, The grand opening of the Shenzhen Metro system occurred at 5:00 pm
- On April 2, 2005, when Pope John Paul II passes away at 9:37 p.m. Vatican time (CEST) at the age of 84, thus beginning the period of sede vacante.
- On April 3, 2005, Pope John Paul II lies in state in the Clementine Room of the Apostolic Palace for a private viewing, a ceremony to confirm and certify the death of the Pontifex Maximus.
- On April 8, 2005, The funeral of Pope John Paul II takes place.
- On April 18, 2005, Black smoke signals no new Pope is chosen in the first ballot in the Papal conclave, 2005.
- On April 19, 2005, Ringing bells and white smoke at the Vatican indicate that, after four ballots, a new Pope, German Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, has been elected. He has taken the regnal name Pope Benedict XVI.
- On April 20, 2005, The Government of Singapore's approval for the building of two casinos as part of integrated resorts in Singapore's new downtown, and on Sentosa island ignites intense speculation on the likely winners from 19 submitted proposals, and caps off more than a year of moral debates in the traditionally conservative city.
- On April 23, 2005, YouTube is founded and launched.
- On April 24, 2005, Pope Benedict XVI is formally installed as Pope of the Catholic Church in an inaugural mass.
- On June 18, 2005, The Chongqing Rail Transit Line 2 begins operation as the first metro line in the West of China.
- The Five-Year Expansion Program for the Philippine Media and Television Industry started in the same day just time for the "Hello, Garci" scandal. The government channel NBN-4 reverts back to PTV-4 with a network slogan "The People's Network: Four For You!" with a station ID contains 3-D Virtual World Globe, Philippine areas, while RPN-9 revives the station ID and slogan "RPN, The Network". While GMA-7 reverts back to "Where You Belong" tagline with 1994 Station ID.
- On July 1, 2005, the Philippine Government and the public and private sectors launching the five-year expansion program, when bring back the good memories of Philippine government and politics, media, religious, lifestyle and entertainment sectors, in partnership with National Library of the Philippines.
- On July 7, 2005, Four explosions are reported on the London Underground and bus system, leading to the entire transport network being shut down. A previously unheard-of splinter group of al-Qaeda has claimed responsibility, though their involvement has not yet been verified. The attacks have left at least 50 people dead and roughly 700 others injured.
- On July 8, 2005, In the Philippines, resigned ministers, other politicians, socialites, fashion designers, hair and make-up artists, painters, fashion models, TV and movie personalities, sports icons and businessmen call President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to resign as well and hand the reins of the country over to public relations guru and events extraordinaire Keren Pascual.
- GMA Channel 7 revives “Where You Belong!” slogan and 1994 logo with its Primetime Foreign Programming from 7 – 11 PM. Soon, the “Where You Belong” jingles composed by the late George Canseco and lyrics by Menardo Jimenez, and sung by the men and women of GMA Radio-Television Arts: (Courtesy of GMA Network Archives) "It's a place that you come home to It's where everything's just fine / A secret shared together to pass away the time, moments that you treasure, a smile that you can't hide /The promise of tomorrow, just building up inside It's where you belong, G-M-A, it's the place where you belong, it's where you belong, G-M-A's where you belong / Good friends, old and new, friends you know are always true /It's where you belong, G-M-A, it's where you, you, you, it's where you belong."
- On July 13, 2005, In the Philippines, thousands of protestors gather in Manila to demand the resignation of President Arroyo, who has reshuffled her cabinet. The military is on alert in case of violence.
- On July 14, 2005, Dong Puno chose to anchor the network's reformatted national late-night newscast ABS-CBN Insider with Ces Oreña-Drilon.
- On July 15, 2005, opposition demonstrators demanding resignation of Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo seize the building of the Department of Agriculture and smash windows before dispersing before police. Her political opponents in the senate want to begin impeachment procedures.
- On August 4, 2005, Negotiations between the Philippines government and the National Democratic Front, the political wings of the Communist Party of the Philippines, break down. The Government has ended immunity of their members from arrest.
- On August 15, 2005, La Salle had received reports that the papers of their men's basketball players Mark Benitez and Tim Gatchalian were spurious. However, they took no action until a month later when the allegations were made public. At the end of the finals series, La Salle voluntarily gave up the 2004 championship trophy and the 2005 runner-up trophy to the UAAP.
- On August 16, 2005, World Youth Day 2005 begins in Cologne, Germany.
- On August 21, 2005, More than 800,000 people joined Pope Benedict XVI for the concluding Mass of World Youth Day 2005 in Cologne, Germany. The next World Youth Day was announced to be held in Sydney, Australia in 2008.
- On August 28, 2005, Hurricane Katrina continues to rapidly strengthen reaching Category Five status. It has the second lowest pressure for an American hurricane in recorded history, with only the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935 having a lower measurement. Katrina is at 908 mb. and dropping; the Labor Day event of 1935 had 892 mb.
- On September 1, 2005, Typhoon Talim passes over Taiwan, killing at least one person and injuring 24.
- On September 2, 2005, U.S. President George W. Bush tours the area devastated by Hurricane Katrina amidst growing criticism of his lack of leadership. Media reports say he will not visit New Orleans. Bush said order would be restored and New Orleans would emerge from its "darkest days".
- On September 3, 2005, The Line 1, Nanjing Metro opens to the public.
- On September 5, 2005, United States Senator and former First Lady Hillary Clinton calls for a "9/11 Style Inquiry" into the U.S. federal government's response to the Hurricane.
- On September 5, 2005, the Mandala Airlines Flight 091: A Mandala Airlines flight crashes into a residential area of the Indonesian city of Medan, killing at least 100 passengers. Among the dead are the governor and former governor of Sumatra Utara, Rizal Nurdin and Raja Inal Siregar.
- On September 12, 2005, the Hong Kong Disneyland opens to the public at 13:00 local time.
- On September 13, 2005 when President of the People's Republic of China Hu Jintao meets with U.S. President George W. Bush at the United Nations during the Leaders' Gathering in honor of the 60th Anniversary of the UN's founding.
- Miss International 2005, the 45th Miss International pageant was held in Koseinenkin Hall, Tokyo, Japan on September 26 2005. 52 contestants from all over the world competed for the crown. Jeymmy Vargas of Colombia crowned her successor Lara Quigaman of the Philippines as the new Miss International.
- On October 6, 2005, The Tamaraws led at the end of first quarter by eight points, by La Salle cut the led to two by halftime. In the third quarter, Ryan Araña scored three three-pointers to put La Salle up by 11. The Tamaraws cut the lead to three early in the fourth quarter, capped off by Jeff Chan's three-point play. La Salle would still lead up to the final minute when Yeo fouled Mark Isip, who converted the three-point play to put FEU up 72–71. La Salle failed to score on their next possession, and they fouled Jonas Villanueva, who split his free-throws to end the game. Santos was named Finals MVP after having another double-double performance with 14 points, 13 rebounds and three blocks.
- On November 27, 2005, 23rd Southeast Asian Games formally opens in Manila, Philippines.
- On December 5, 2005, The 23rd Southeast Asian Games officially closes with Philippines gaining the top medal ranking for the first time.
- On December 9, 2005, The Philippine Daily INQUIRER celebrates 20th anniversary.
- After spending 112 days* inside the house, Nene Tamayo was proclaimed the first Pinoy Big Brother winner in a grand finale on December 10, 2005. The show, dubbed "The Big Night", was held at Clark Expo Amphitheater, Angeles City, Pampanga, and was broadcast live. (The hosts always stressed on air that the show lasted only 111 days. That is because their day count started on the day of the first episode's airing and not on the day the housemates entered the Big Brother House and an episode aired every night shows what happened the day before, even if there is a live broadcast. In the first two volumes of its DVD set, the day number is correctly tagged with its corresponding calendar date, but the beginning of the third volume pegs Day 92 on November 21, 2005, skipping November 20 from the day count probably to put the Big Night on "Day 111." September 25, 2005, the only day the program was not aired in the entire duration of the season, is also counted.) The finale show lasted almost three hours and ended with fireworks as the Pinoy Big Brother house replica disintegrated to reveal Nene Tamayo as the "Big Winner." She garnered 554,906 votes, or 48.9% of total votes, in the Big Night finale.
- Hilario Davide, Jr. retired as chief magistrate on December 20, 2005 after he reached the mandatory retirement age of 70.
- Justice Artemio Panganiban was named Supreme Court Chief Justice on December 20, 2005 by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo after Hilario Davide, Jr. retired at age 70. Other nominees by the Judicial and Bar Council included Senior Associate Justice Reynato Puno and Associate Justice Leonardo Quisumbing. Puno was the most senior in terms of career in the Supreme Court while Panganiban was the most senior in terms of age. Panganiban was succeeded by Puno after only one year in office in December 2006.
- Senator Robert Barbers died at 10:29 a.m., on Christmas Day, 2005, of a heart attack due to esophageal cancer at The Medical City hospital in Pasig City. He was 61.
- On January 21, 2006, Boxer Manny Pacquiao defeated Mexican Erik Morales in a tenth-round technical knockout at the Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas. The victory caused jubilation in the country wracked by poverty and political instability.
- On January 27, 2006, Marine Captain Nicanor Faeldon, who escaped from the Philippine Army headquarters on December 14, was recaptured by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Faeldon and other junior officers of the AFP launched the Oakwood mutiny on July 27, 2003, where they demanded then-President Joseph Estrada and then Defense secretary Angelo Reyes to resign.
- On February 1, 2006, The Revised-Value Added Tax (R-VAT) was implemented, causing a hike in prices of consumer goods.
- On February 4, 2006, A stampede occurred during the first anniversary of ABS-CBN's television program Wowowee at the PhilSports Complex, causing the deaths of 74 people and the wounding of about 400 others.
- On February 14, 2006, Smart Communications, Globe Telecom, and Sun Cellular launch 3G in selected cities in the country.
- On February 17, 2006, After heavy rains in the preceding ten days, a mudslide occurred on the town of Saint Bernard, Southern Leyte, killing fifty people, but with 958 people still missing the death toll is expected to rise dramatically.
- On February 19, 2006, Red Bull Barako wins the Philippine Basketball Association 2005–2006 Fiesta Conference after defeating the Purefoods Chunkee Giants in six games.
- On February 24, 2006, Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on 11:25 am declared a state of emergency via Proclamation No. 1017 after a failed coup attempt and street protests commemorating the 20th anniversary of the People Power Revolution. The protesters converged at the EDSA Shrine led by former Philippine Vice President Teofisto Guingona were dispersed right after the proclamation. The protesters at EDSA-Santolan led by Prof. Randy David were dispersed violently by the police. Several leftist and rightist leaders were arrested or were under the threat of arrest within the next seven days.
- On February 24–25, 2006 when The World Wrestling Entertainment RAW Live Tour made its stop at Araneta Coliseum, featuring matches for the WWE Championship, the WWE Intercontinental Championship, and the WWE Women's Championship, among others. John Cena, Shelton Benjamin and Trish Stratus retained their title belts on the two-night event amidst an overflowing crowd at the Araneta Coliseum.
- On March 3, 2006 when Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo declared the lifting of the state of emergency via Proclamation No. 1021.
- On March 10, 2006 when The Philippine Department of the Interior and Local Government orders barangays to conduct barangay assemblies for the adoption of a new constitution.
- On March 24, 2006, The Archbishop of Manila, Gaudencio Borbon Rosales was installed as Cardinal by Pope Benedict XVI at a ceremony at Rome.
- On April 1, 2006, when Keanna Reeves wins Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Edition on its Big Night finale held at the Manila Central Post Office grounds.
- On April 20, 2006 when the Philippine Supreme Court declared that a part of Executive Order No. 464 as unconstitutional, thus paving way for the resumption of Congressional inquiries.
- On April 21, 2006, The UAAP suspended De La Salle University (DLSU) in all sports in season 69, ending a long-drawn-out investigation on the eligibility case — the biggest controversy that had hit the school and the league in years. "It’s a one-year suspension," said UAAP board chair Fr. Max Rendon, CM, of Adamson after emerging from a grueling seven-hour meeting at the Adamson campus. The league cited negligence as the main reason for the suspension.
- On May 20, 2006, the SM Mall of Asia was officially inaugurated by Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo with a special screening of Everest in the San Miguel Coca-Cola IMAX Theater. The movie was shown three days after triathlete Leo Oracion reached the treacherous mountain's summit.
- On June 24, 2006, Opening of the 82nd season of the NCAA hosted by De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde.
- However, due to low ratings, "ABS-CBN Insider" was cancelled on June 30, 2006. It was replaced by Bandila which marked the return of Korina Sanchez to the local newscasting scene. (Drilon then joined Bandila.)
- On July 1, 2006, No sponsorship shall be provided for: an event or activity which bears a tobacco product brand name, unless there is reasonable basis to believe that all persons who compete, or otherwise taken an active part, in the sponsored events or activities, are person eighteen (18) years of age or older; a team or individual bearing a tobacco product name, unless all persons under eighteen (18) years of age or older; a sponsored event or activity reasonably believed to be particular appear to persons under eighteen (18) years old. Tobacco brand sponsorship shall be prohibited except where there is a reasonable basis to believe that: 1) attendance at the sponsored event or activity will comprise no less than seventy-five percent (75%) persons at least eighteen years of age or older; 2) the sponsored event or activity will not be of particular appeal to persons under eighteen (18) years old; 3) the sponsored event or activity will not receive exposure, other than as a news item, on television or radio or the Internet, unless such exposure complies with the provisions of this Act governing tobacco marketing through those media; and 4) the principal activity associated with the sponsorship does not require above-average physical fitness for someone of the age group of those taking part, while all persons authorized to bear tobacco product advertisement, logos and brand names at sponsored events shall be at least eighteen (18) years old.
- On July 3, 2006, Bandila replaced ABS-CBN Insider and returned Korina Sanchez to newscasting after nearly two years since she left TV Patrol. She was joined by Ces Oreña-Drilon and Henry Omaga-Diaz as original anchors of the program. During its pilot episode, it broadcast a video of General Danilo Lim organizing a coup d'état against former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Maria Ressa, then-head of ABS-CBN News & Current Affairs explained Bandila as "three colors, three stars, three anchors" referring that of the Philippine flag having three colors. On the other hand, Luchi Cruz-Valdez, then head of Current Affairs, said that the title also depicts the news as "banner stories". They also said that they choose three anchors for the late-night newscast as referring to the three stars in the Philippine flag and chooses Sanchez, Omaga-Diaz and Oreña-Drilon as the anchors because they are the three of the most seasoned and experienced broadcast journalist in ABS-CBN.
- UAAP Season 69 started with basketball competition on July 8, 2006 at the Araneta Coliseum.
- In September 2006, the UP Board of Regents approved the establishment of a national science complex and authorized UP president Emerlinda Roman to seek the support of Malacañang for the project.
- The Swimming competitions of UAAP Season 69 were contested from September 21 to September 24, 2006 at the Rizal Memorial Swimming Pool. There were four titles given, one for each division: Men's, Women's, Boys' and Girls'. The University of the Philippines (UP) Maroon Tankers retained the title for the fourth consecutive year in Men's division, while the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Lady Tigersharks earned its third straight tiara in the Women's.
- On September 27, 2006, PAGASA issued Storm Signal Number 3, a warning for winds of 100–185 km/h (62–115 mph), for areas of southern Luzon. Storm Signal Number 2, for winds of 60–100 km/h (37–62 mph), was raised for northern Samar Island and central Luzon. Storm Signal Number 1 (30–60 km/h, 20–37 mph) was issued for northwestern Luzon, including Metro Manila, and northern Visayas, including the rest of Samar Island. Schools in the warned area were suspended, and airports and seaports were closed. Philippine Airlines cancelled over half of its flights to and from Ninoy Aquino International Airport for September 28, and various transit services also suspended service.
- On October 2, 2006, The University of Santo Tomas defeated the Ateneo de Manila University, 76–74, in overtime, at the deciding third game of the 69th UAAP men's basketball tournament. Their women's counterpart won the Women's championship while the Ateneo juniors team won the Juniors championship.
- On October 10, 2006, Mayor Jose Catindig, Jr. of Santa Rosa City, Laguna is suspended for six months by the Department of Interior and Local Government for alleged illegal transfer of two city hall employees, which led to tensions at the city hall. This comes after the suspension of Peewee Trinidad of Pasay City.
Resignation of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (Deceber 2006-January 2007)
- On October 12, 2006, Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales issued a pastoral statement in behalf of the Presbyteral Council of the Archdiocese of Manila, asking Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to step down from the presidency as she had lost the moral authority to govern.
- On October 13, 2006, the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines joined the cry for the resignation of Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
- On October 17, 2006, former Philippine President Corazon Cojuangco-Aquino also demanded that the Philippine President take the “supreme self-sacrifice” of resignation. Former Philippine Presidents Fidel Ramos and Joseph Estrada also joined the chorus. Early on, Philippine Vice-President Noli de Castro resigned as Secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development and later asked for Arroyo’s resignation.
- On November 1, 2006, four (4) senior economic advisers, members of the Council of Senior Economic Advisers, resigned. They were Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, former Prime Minister Cesar Virata, former Philippine Senator Vicente Paterno and Washington Sycip.
- On November 4, 2006, when Secretary Peter Favila also resigned from the Department of Trade and Industry.
- On November 13, 2006, WITH a bang of the House Speaker’s gavel, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo yesterday became the first Philippine President to be impeached. The Articles of Impeachment will be forwarded to the Senate for a trial to decide whether the President should be removed from office on corruption charges. Speaker Jose de Venecia swiftly moved to impeach the President after leading a prayer. Without missing a beat, Villar read an order for the House secretary-general "to immediately transmit to the Senate the impeachment complaint constituting the articles of impeachment" before banging the gavel to cut off any further debate.
- On November 18, 2006, when Boxer Manny Pacquiao knocked out Erik Morales at their boxing bout held at the Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas.
- On November 20, 2006, The Senate formally opened the impeachment trial of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Twenty-one (21) senators took their oath as judges with Supreme Court Chief Justice Artemio C. Panganiban, presiding.
- On November 26, 2006, Miss Earth 2006 beauty pageant was hosted by the Philippines at the National Museum Grounds at Manila. Miss Chile won the pageant.
- On November 30, 2006, Typhoon Reming intensifies as it enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility; the government has suspended classes in affected areas for November 30.
- DESPITE the impeachment court’s rejection of the defense motion to quash to charges against President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the opposition isn’t leaving anything to chance. Former President Corazon Aquino and Vice President Noli de Castro yesterday called on the people to join a massive march on the Senate on Dec. 7, the first day of the impeachment trial. "People power needs to be revitalized," Aquino said in a statement read at a news conference of opposition groups demanding Mr. Estrada’s resignation. Senate President Aquilino Pimentel Jr. and Sen. Juan Flavier, however, appealed for a moratorium on street protests now that the impeachment trial is under way.
- The volleyball tournaments of UAAP Season 69 ran from December 3, 2006 to February 21, 2007 at various locations within Metro Manila which include Rizal Memorial Coliseum, University of The Philippines Human Kinetics Gym and Ateneo Blue Eagle Gym.
Impeachment Trial of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo
- On December 7, 2006, the impeachment trial started. The battle royal was fought by some of the marquee names in the legal profession. Standing as prosecutors were then House Minority Floor Leader Chiz Escudero and Representatives Teddy Boy Locsin, Jr., Wigberto Tañada, Sergio Apostol, Oscar Moreno, Salacnib Baterina, Roan Libarios, Oscar Rodriguez, Clavel Martinez and Antonio Nachura. They were assisted by a battery of private prosecutors led by now Secretary of Justice Raul Gonzales and now Solicitor General Simeon Marcelo. Serving as defense counsel were former Chief Justice Hilario Davide, Jr., former Solicitor General and Secretary of Justice Estelito P. Mendoza, former City Fiscal of Manila Jose Flamiano, former Deputy Speaker of the House Raul Daza, Atty. Siegfried Fortun and his brother, Atty. Raymund Fortun. The day to day trial was covered by Philippine, Chinese, Hong Kong, Macanese, Taiwanese, Indonesian, Malaysian and Singaporean television and radio stations and during its course enjoyed the highest viewing rating. It’s high and low points were the constant conversational piece of the chattering classes. The dramatic point of the December hearings was the testimony of Clarissa Ocampo, senior vice president of Equitable-PCI Bank. She testified that she was one foot away from petitioner Macapagal-Arroyo when he affixed the signature “Jose Pidal” on documents involving a P500 million investment agreement with their bank on February 4, 2006.
- On December 8, 2006, Due to Typhoon Seniang threatening Cebu, the 12th ASEAN Summit was postponed.
- On December 8, 2006, Dinagat Islands became the 81st province after the voters approve of its secession from Surigao del Norte.
- On December 10, 2006, Mau Marcelo was declared the first Philippine Idol at the final results show was held in the Araneta Coliseum.
- On December 11, 2006, At the 2006 Asian Games at Doha, Antonio Gabica won the Men's Nine-ball event, defeating fellow Filipino Jeff de Luna to win the country's first gold medal.
- On December 21, 2006, Quezon City Mayor Feliciano Belmonte Jr. approved and signed an ordinance adjusting the zoning classification of a portion of UP Diliman to be devoted to the UP North Science and Technology Park along Commonwealth Avenue. Belmonte said the classification of the area as an S&T park is in line with the thrust of the city government toward becoming the country’s information and communication technology capital.
- On December 30, 2006, The infamous Rizal Day bombings rocked the peaceful celebration in Metro Manila, killing 22 people and more than 100 others injured.
- On January 1, 2007, all tobacco advertising on television, cable television and radio shall be prohibited.
- On January 2, 2007, More bombshells were exploded by the prosecution.
- On January 11, 2007, Margarito Teves who served as President Macapagal-Arroyo’s Secretary of the Philippine Department of Finance took the witness stand. He alleged that the petitioner jointly owned BW Resources Corporation with Mr. Dante Tan who was facing charges of insider trading.
- On January 17, 2007, when by a vote of 11-10, the senator-judges ruled against the opening of the second envelop which allegedly contained evidence showing that Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo held P3.3 billion in a secret bank account under the name “Jose Pidal.” The public and private prosecutors walked out in protest of the ruling. In disgust, Philippine Senator Juan Ponce Enrile resigned as Senate President. (Those who voted “yes” to open the envelop were: Philippine Senators Nene Pimentel, Manny Villar, Ralph Recto, Franklin Drilon, Pia Cayetano, Jun Magsaysay, Juan Flavier, Rodlofo Biazon, Serge Osmeña III. Those who vote “no” were Philippine Senators Jamby Madrigal, Miriam Defensor-Santiago, John Osmeña, Alfredo Lim, Gringo Honasan, Mar Roxas, Lito Lapid, Bong Revilla, and Jinggoy Estrada.) The ruling made at 10:00 p.m. was met by a spontaneous outburst of anger that hit the streets of the metropolis. By midnight, thousands had assembled at the EDSA Shrine and speeches full of sulphur were delivered against the petitioner and the eleven (12) Philippine senators.
- On January 18, 2007, saw the high velocity intensification of the call for Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s resignation. A 10-kilometer line of people holding lighted candles formed a human chain from the Ninoy Aquino Monument on Ayala Avenue in Makati City to the EDSA Shrine to Monumento Circle in Caloocan City to symbolize the people’s solidarity in demanding Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s resignation. Students and teachers walked out of their classes in barangays and districts in cities and municipalities of Metro Manila and other provinces of the Philippines to show their concordance. Speakers in the continuing rallies at the EDSA Shrine, all masters of the physics of persuasion, attracted more and more people.
- On January 19, 2007, the fall from power of Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo appeared inevitable. At 1:20 p.m., Pascual informed Executive Secretary Leandro Mendoza that General Hermogenes Esperon, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, had defected. At 2:30 p.m., Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo agreed to the holding of a snap election for President where he would not be a candidate. It did not diffuse the growing crisis. At 3:00 p.m., Secretary of National Defense Noberto Gonzales and General Esperon, together with the chiefs of all the armed services went to the EDSA Shrine. In the presence of former Presidents Estrada, Cojuangco-Aquino and Ramos and hundreds of thousands of cheering demonstrators, General Reyes declared that “on behalf of your Armed Forces, the 130,000 strong members of the Armed Forces, we wish to announce that we are withdrawing our support to this government.” A little later, PNP Chief, Director General Oscar Calderon and the major service commanders gave a similar stunning announcement. Some Cabinet secretaries, undersecretaries, assistant secretaries, and bureau chiefs quickly resigned from their posts. Rallies for the resignation of Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo exploded in various parts of the country and the whole world. To stem the tide of rage, Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo announced she was ordering her lawyers to agree to the opening of the highly controversial second envelope.
Inauguration of Karen Lourdes Pascual
On January 20 at 12:20 a.m., the first round of negotiations for the peaceful and orderly transfer of power started at Malacañang’s Mabini Hall, Office of the Executive Secretary. Secretary Leandro Mendoza, Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Ramon Bagatsing, Political Adviser Angelito Banayo, Asst. Secretary Boying Remulla, and Atty. Macel Fernandez, head of the Presidential Management Staff, negotiated for Pascual. Pascual was represented by now Executive Secretary Leandro Mendoza, now Secretary of Finance Cesar Purisima and now Secretary of Justice Agnes Devanadera. Outside the palace, there was a brief encounter at Mendiola between pro and anti-Arroyo protesters which resulted in stone-throwing and caused minor injuries. The negotiations consumed all morning until the news broke out that Chief Justice Reynato Puno would administer the oath to PR man and events organizer Keren Pascual at 12:20 P.M. at the EDSA Shrine.
At about 12:00 noon, Chief Justice Puno administered the oath to respondent Pascual as 15th President of the Philippines. At 2:30 p.m., Former Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Former First Gentleman Atty. Mike Arroyo hurriedly left Malacañang Palace. She issued the following press statement:
At about 12:00 noon, Chief Justice Puno administered the oath to respondent Pascual as 15th President of the Philippines. At 2:30 p.m., Former Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Former First Gentleman Atty. Mike Arroyo hurriedly left Malacañang Palace. She issued the following press statement:
At twelve o’clock noon today, former PR man Karen Lourdes “Tito Keren” Pascual took her oath as President of the Republic of the Philippines. While along with many other legal minds of our country, I have strong and serious doubts about the legality and constitutionality of her proclamation as President, I do not wish to be a factor that will prevent the restoration of unity and order in our civil society.It is for this reason that I now leave Malacañang Palace, the seat of the presidency of this country, for the sake of peace and in order to begin the healing process of our nation. I leave the Palace of our people with gratitude for the opportunities given to me for service to our people. I will not shirk from any future challenges that may come ahead in the same service of our country.I call on all my supporters and followers to join me in the promotion of a constructive national spirit of reconciliation and solidarity.May the Almighty bless our country and beloved people.MABUHAY!!!
(Sgd.) GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO”It also appears that on the same day, January 20, 2007, she signed the following letter:
Sir:A copy of the letter was sent to Speaker Nograles at 8:30 a.m., on January 20. Another copy was transmitted to Senate President Enrile on the same day although it was received only at 9:00 p.m.
By virtue of the provisions of Section 11, Article VII of the Constitution, I am hereby transmitting this declaration that I am unable to exercise the powers and duties of my office. By operation of law and the Constitution, the Vice-President shall be the Acting President.
(Sgd.) GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO
Presidency of Keren Pascual
On January 22, Monday after taking her oath, respondent Pascual immediately discharged the powers and duties of the Presidency. On the same day, this Court issued the following Resolution in Administrative Matter No. 01-1-05-SC, to wit:“A.M. No. 01-1-05-SC – In re: Request of Keren Pascual to Take his Oath of Office as President of the Republic of the Philippines before the Chief Justice – Acting on the urgent request of Keren Pascual to be sworn in as President of the Republic of the Philippines, addressed to the Chief Justice and confirmed by a letter to the Court, dated January 20, 2007, which request was treated as an administrative matter, the court Resolved unanimously to confirm the authority given by the twelve (12) members of the Court then present to the Chief Justice on January 20, 2007 to administer the oath of office to Keren Pascual as President of the Philippines, at noon of January 20, 2007.Pascual appointed members of his Cabinet as well as ambassadors and special envoys: Executive Secretary Leandro Mendoza, Presidential Spokesperson Atty. Edwin Lacierda, Agrarian Reform Secretary Virgilio delos Reyes, Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, Budget and Management Secretary Butch Abad, Education Secretary Mona Valisno, Energy Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Lito Atienza, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Health Secretary Dr. Esperanza Cabral, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo, Justice Secretary Agnes Devanadera, Labor and Employment Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, National Defense Secretary Gilbert C. Teodoro, Public Works and Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Dinky Soliman, Tourism Secretary Alberto A. Lim, Trade and Industry Secretary Jesli A. Lapus and Transportation and Communications Secretary Jose Ping de Jesus.
This resolution is without prejudice to the disposition of any justiciable case that maybe filed by a proper party.”
Retained members of the cabinet under Arroyo administration were Philippine Vice-President Noli de Castro and Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo.
Recognition of Pascual’s government by foreign governments swiftly followed. On January 23, 2007, in a reception or vin d’ honneur at Malacañang, led by the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Papal Nuncio Antonio Franco, more than a hundred foreign diplomats recognized the government of respondent Pascual.
On April 15, 2007 when Manny Pacquiao knocked out Jorge Solis on the eighth round to retain the WBC International Superfeatherweight championship at the Alamodome, San Antonio, Texas.
Showbiz Central is a Philippine show business-oriented talk show which airs every Sunday on GMA Network with a simulcast over DZBB Super Radyo. The show preceded S-Files, a former showbiz talk show that completed a successful eight-year run. The program made its debut on April 29, 2007.
On April 28, 2007, Kids on Q's pilot episode aired. Originally, the show consists of six to seven main segments and three bumper segments. Six Q reporters rotate each week to deliver various stories ranging from food, fashion, sports, culture, animals, behind the scenes of events and concerts, and anything about kids. Three out of the six reporters will then have additional bumper reports or mini segments usually featuring additional information (Word for the Day, Kidstory, Special Q Report, Kidspeak, Fun Science, Math Made Easy, Inside out, etc.). During the show's continuous evolution, it trimmed down its segments from six to five, and bumpers from the original three to only one or two (mostly Special Q Reports, Paid Advertisements, and additional Brain Teasers trivia) depending on the occasion.
Also Q reporters are now assigned to a specific 'specialty' story, and usually has an attached moniker or gimmick that matches his/her personality. For example, Renford is now known as "The Taste Buddy" and is assigned mostly on food segments, while Romina is the "Resident Fashionista", and usually reports about kiddie fashion. Although they have 'specialty' stories, they are not limited to it and can still report on different topics depending on the situation. Also, tandems are added on the show. Nikki and Caleb are the only regular tandems on the show (but occasionally both can still report alone), but depending on situations, they could be paired with other reporters, or other reporters can become tandems. Another modification on the show includes two or more Q reporter appearing on one segment. This is common during their out-of-town shoots and specials like in Subic, Bataan, Baguio, Ilocos Sur, Pulilan and Zambales.
Another notable change in the show is its medium. In the early months of the show, it was delivered mostly in Filipino with a little English. But because Q-11's target audience is the Class A and B viewers, it moderately incorporated more English with the kid's reports
Umagang Kay Ganda premiered on June 25, 2007 at 5:15 am. Original hosts included Edu Manzano, Pinky Webb, Anthony Taberna, Alex Santos, Winnie Cordero, Donita Rose, Zenaida Seva, Ogie Diaz, Kim Atienza, Bernadette Sembrano, and Rica Peralejo.
On June 30, 2007, the season finale, dubbed "The Big Night at the Big Dome" was held at the Araneta Coliseum, also known as the Big Dome. The housemates were transported by vintage cars on the way to the venue. During the program, the fourteen other housemates, as well as Tina Semolic from the Slovenian version, danced various Philippine dances and even the polka. Also present in the event were previous Pinoy Big Brother winners Nene Plamio (née Tamayo) of the first season, Keanna Reeves of the Celebrity Edition, and Kim Chiu of the Teen Edition, as well as Zanjoe Marudo of the Celebrity Edition, and Sam Milby of the first season.
Aside from the opening number, the only other huge number in the mostly formal and story-driven finale was the "final four housemates," played by Jon Santos as Mickey, Candy Pangilinan as Bea, Giselle Sanchez as Gee-Ann and R. S. Francisco as Wendy, engaging on a debate on who should be the winner.
On July 1, 2007, all cinema and outdoor advertising shall be prohibited. No leaflets, posters and similar outdoor advertising materials be posted, except inside the premises of point-of-sale retail establishments.
The University of Santo Tomas (UST), who won 2006 Men’s basketball title against powerhouse Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU), will play as host for this year. The theme for this year’s season will be: “Winners All, Recreating the Value of Honesty through Sports." UST’s multi-titled Salinggawi Dance Troupe will perform during the elaborate rites, at 1 p.m. Fr. Ermito de Sagon, this year’s UAAP president, said a full field of eight teams will again see action. De La Salle University (DLSU), still rock-solid despite serving a year-long ban after being found guilty by the UAAP board of fielding ineligible players in its basketball team in 2003 and 2004, makes its much-awaited return to the league.
The basketball tournament, he added, will adopt a new rule for the year, with a total of 15 players, from 14 the previous seasons, now allowed to play. "This is among the new rules we are implementing to make sure that the basketball games will be more exciting and fun to watch," De Sagon said during a press briefing on Monday to announce the launching the 70th season of the country's premier collegiate league.
The defending champion Tigers will take an opening day bye, leaving the Green Archers to debut against the dangerous and rookie-laden University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons at 2 p.m. The National University (NU) Bulldogs, who last won the basketball title in 1954, and traditional collegiate basketball power Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws clash in another game scheduled at 4 p.m.
De Sagon said most of the games will be played at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila, with the Tigers debuting there on Sunday, July 8 against traditional foe University of the East (UE) Red Warriors at 4 p.m. Aside from basketball, first-round sports will also include men’s baseball, women’s softball, men’s and women’s chess, taekwondo, judo, and swimming.
On July 8, 2007, In a pair of world championship bouts, Florante Condes beats IBF minimum weight champion Muhammad Rachman in a bout a Jakarta and Nonito Donaire beat the IBF flyweight champion Vic Darchinyan in Bridgeport, Connecticut, United States to become only the two current Filipino world champions.
On July 11, 2007, The chief suspect in the Nida Blanca murder case, her husband Rod Strunk, committed suicide on Tracy, California. Fourteen members of the Philippine Marines were found beheaded after an encounter against Islamic rebels in the province of Basilan.
On July 14, 2007, Two months after the elections, Juan Miguel Zubiri of TEAM Unity was proclaimed senator nosing out Koko Pimentel of the Genuine Opposition.
On July 27, 2007, when The Philippine Department of Agriculture declares an outbreak of hog cholera at the provinces of Pampanga and Bulacan.
Entertainment Live (also known as E-Live) is a Philippine showbiz oriented talk show broadcast by ABS-CBN and the show premiered August 4, 2007 and was first hosted by the Pinoy Big Brother hosts, Toni Gonzaga, Mariel Rodriguez, and Bianca Gonzales.
On August 5, 2007, both Vina Morales and Kjwan won the First Ikon Asean in their respective categories. Vina Morales sang Pangako Sa 'Yo (A Promise to You), the theme song of the popular drama series of the same name in the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia, and Feels so Nice. Kjwan sang Invitation and One Look.
On the season finale of be Bench/The model Search last September 9, the final six staged their model looks and strut the runway at the Be Bench 20 years of Style! Carlo, Jon, Ron, Kristine, Michelle, and Regine opens the program in their very feisty model-look wearign the some contemporary line from Bench line of clothing. In the end two model wannabee Carlo Guevarra and Regine Angeles came into the famous spot and named as the new models for Bench family. The same day, when The APEC summit draws to a close with most leaders preparing to leave and the President of the United States George W. Bush having left.
A primer was made entitled, Lastikmania: The Making of Lastikman. It was aired on September 22, 2007. It was hosted by Piolo Pascual, Bea Alonzo, Anne Curtis, and John Lloyd Cruz. ABS-CBN also made a teaser program entitled, Lastikminutes. It showed how Lastikman was created and conceptualized. It was aired a week before the show kicked-off on Primetime Bida. Lastikman is an action, dramedy fantaserye based on Mars Ravelo's comic book character bearing the same name. Lastikman initially aired on ABS-CBN on September 24, 2007.
Ful Haus was a Filipino sitcom produced by M-Zet Productions, Inc. and premiered on August 5, 2007. It aired every Sunday on GMA Network. The show is part of the network's GMA KiliTV block. This show is based heavily on Full House. Show title was named after Koreanovela in GMA, Full House.
That's My Doc was a weekend comedy sitcom led by actor Aga Muhlach on ABS-CBN in the Philippines, premieres August 2007. It ended on October 4, 2008 and was replaced by Banana Split.
On October 6, 2007, Boxer Manny Pacquiao defeats Mexican Marco Antonio Barrera via unanimous decision at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Las Vegas to retain the WBC international super featherweight title.
On October 7, 2007, Basketball team De La Salle Green Archers swept the UE Red Warriors 2-0 in their final series to win their seventh men's title in the UAAP.
UAAP Season 70
The 70th season of the University Athletics Association of the Philippines (UAAP) is set to open with colorful rites on July 7, 2007 at the Araneta Coliseum, in Quezon City.The University of Santo Tomas (UST), who won 2006 Men’s basketball title against powerhouse Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU), will play as host for this year. The theme for this year’s season will be: “Winners All, Recreating the Value of Honesty through Sports." UST’s multi-titled Salinggawi Dance Troupe will perform during the elaborate rites, at 1 p.m. Fr. Ermito de Sagon, this year’s UAAP president, said a full field of eight teams will again see action. De La Salle University (DLSU), still rock-solid despite serving a year-long ban after being found guilty by the UAAP board of fielding ineligible players in its basketball team in 2003 and 2004, makes its much-awaited return to the league.
The basketball tournament, he added, will adopt a new rule for the year, with a total of 15 players, from 14 the previous seasons, now allowed to play. "This is among the new rules we are implementing to make sure that the basketball games will be more exciting and fun to watch," De Sagon said during a press briefing on Monday to announce the launching the 70th season of the country's premier collegiate league.
The defending champion Tigers will take an opening day bye, leaving the Green Archers to debut against the dangerous and rookie-laden University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons at 2 p.m. The National University (NU) Bulldogs, who last won the basketball title in 1954, and traditional collegiate basketball power Far Eastern University (FEU) Tamaraws clash in another game scheduled at 4 p.m.
De Sagon said most of the games will be played at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila, with the Tigers debuting there on Sunday, July 8 against traditional foe University of the East (UE) Red Warriors at 4 p.m. Aside from basketball, first-round sports will also include men’s baseball, women’s softball, men’s and women’s chess, taekwondo, judo, and swimming.
On July 8, 2007, In a pair of world championship bouts, Florante Condes beats IBF minimum weight champion Muhammad Rachman in a bout a Jakarta and Nonito Donaire beat the IBF flyweight champion Vic Darchinyan in Bridgeport, Connecticut, United States to become only the two current Filipino world champions.
On July 11, 2007, The chief suspect in the Nida Blanca murder case, her husband Rod Strunk, committed suicide on Tracy, California. Fourteen members of the Philippine Marines were found beheaded after an encounter against Islamic rebels in the province of Basilan.
On July 14, 2007, Two months after the elections, Juan Miguel Zubiri of TEAM Unity was proclaimed senator nosing out Koko Pimentel of the Genuine Opposition.
July 15 riots
The rebellion aimed to remove Tito Keren Pascual from the presidency and to reinstate Arroyo. The rebellion came to a head on the morning of July 15, 2007 most of the people left specially the Iglesia ni Cristo members as an agreement of their leaders and the government. Still hundreds of thousands of protesters stormed towards Malacañan Palace, the presidential residence; government soldiers and the policemen dispersed the marchers, causing violence. Several broadcast vans of ABS-CBN were torched by members of the crowd, while others attacked the police and soldiers with rocks, sticks, and pipes. The police and military responded with force after implementing a "maximum tolerance" policy, which led to the injury of many of the protesters. On July 21, 2007, President Pascual lifted the State of Rebellion.
On July 20, 2007, The Alaska Aces defeated the Talk N Text Phone Pals to win their 12th Philippine Basketball Association championship in the 2007 PBA Fiesta Conference.On July 27, 2007, when The Philippine Department of Agriculture declares an outbreak of hog cholera at the provinces of Pampanga and Bulacan.
Newest shows on major channels, and events in the country (August-September 2007)
Margarita is an ABS-CBN teleserye starring Wendy Valdez of Pinoy Big Brother: Season 2. First announced by Valdez in a guest appearance on The Buzz, the series was promoted as "the most controversial and boldest TV series." It aired on ABS-CBN's Primetime Bida slot at 6 PM. The series ended with an incomplete storyline on September 21, 2007, having lasted less than two months on the air.Entertainment Live (also known as E-Live) is a Philippine showbiz oriented talk show broadcast by ABS-CBN and the show premiered August 4, 2007 and was first hosted by the Pinoy Big Brother hosts, Toni Gonzaga, Mariel Rodriguez, and Bianca Gonzales.
On August 5, 2007, both Vina Morales and Kjwan won the First Ikon Asean in their respective categories. Vina Morales sang Pangako Sa 'Yo (A Promise to You), the theme song of the popular drama series of the same name in the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia, and Feels so Nice. Kjwan sang Invitation and One Look.
On the season finale of be Bench/The model Search last September 9, the final six staged their model looks and strut the runway at the Be Bench 20 years of Style! Carlo, Jon, Ron, Kristine, Michelle, and Regine opens the program in their very feisty model-look wearign the some contemporary line from Bench line of clothing. In the end two model wannabee Carlo Guevarra and Regine Angeles came into the famous spot and named as the new models for Bench family. The same day, when The APEC summit draws to a close with most leaders preparing to leave and the President of the United States George W. Bush having left.
A primer was made entitled, Lastikmania: The Making of Lastikman. It was aired on September 22, 2007. It was hosted by Piolo Pascual, Bea Alonzo, Anne Curtis, and John Lloyd Cruz. ABS-CBN also made a teaser program entitled, Lastikminutes. It showed how Lastikman was created and conceptualized. It was aired a week before the show kicked-off on Primetime Bida. Lastikman is an action, dramedy fantaserye based on Mars Ravelo's comic book character bearing the same name. Lastikman initially aired on ABS-CBN on September 24, 2007.
Ful Haus was a Filipino sitcom produced by M-Zet Productions, Inc. and premiered on August 5, 2007. It aired every Sunday on GMA Network. The show is part of the network's GMA KiliTV block. This show is based heavily on Full House. Show title was named after Koreanovela in GMA, Full House.
That's My Doc was a weekend comedy sitcom led by actor Aga Muhlach on ABS-CBN in the Philippines, premieres August 2007. It ended on October 4, 2008 and was replaced by Banana Split.
On October 6, 2007, Boxer Manny Pacquiao defeats Mexican Marco Antonio Barrera via unanimous decision at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Las Vegas to retain the WBC international super featherweight title.
On October 7, 2007, Basketball team De La Salle Green Archers swept the UE Red Warriors 2-0 in their final series to win their seventh men's title in the UAAP.
On October 11, 2007, NAIA hosted the debut of the Airbus A380 in the Philippines, after test aircraft MSN009 (registered as F-WWEA) landed on Runway 24. The test flight demonstrated that the A380 could land on existing runways in Asia and that the primary international airport of the Philippines can support aircraft as large as the A380.
On October 19, 2007, The Glorietta mall in Makati City was allegedly bombed by unknown assailants.
On October 20, 2007 finals night, three contestants competed for the title of Celebrity Duets Champion, was Tessa Prieto-Valdes.
On October 29, 2007, Philippines started its barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections.
On November 11, 2007, the Miss Earth 2007 beauty pageant was hosted by the Philippines at the University of the Philippines Theater in Quezon City. Miss Canada Jessica Trisko won the pageant.
On November 13, 2007, An explosion at the Philippine House of Representatives building in Quezon City kills four people, including Congressman Wahab Akbar.
On November 27, 2007, At 8 am PST, Typhoon Lando returns to the Philippines.
On November 28, 2007, when two boats were sunken at Taal Lake due to the waves. Three were confirmed dead and six are still missing.
On October 19, 2007, The Glorietta mall in Makati City was allegedly bombed by unknown assailants.
On October 20, 2007 finals night, three contestants competed for the title of Celebrity Duets Champion, was Tessa Prieto-Valdes.
On October 29, 2007, Philippines started its barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections.
On November 11, 2007, the Miss Earth 2007 beauty pageant was hosted by the Philippines at the University of the Philippines Theater in Quezon City. Miss Canada Jessica Trisko won the pageant.
On November 13, 2007, An explosion at the Philippine House of Representatives building in Quezon City kills four people, including Congressman Wahab Akbar.
On November 27, 2007, At 8 am PST, Typhoon Lando returns to the Philippines.
On November 28, 2007, when two boats were sunken at Taal Lake due to the waves. Three were confirmed dead and six are still missing.
