The Pia Cayetano-Paolo Abrera Affair and re-run of Ninoy Aquino assassination (Companero y Companera, Part 2)

The 2007 Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand

The 2007 Southeast Asian Games, officially known as the 24th Southeast Asian Games, were a Southeast Asian multi-sport event held in Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), Thailand. This was the sixth time Thailand hosted the Southeast Asian Games and its first time since 1995. Previously, Thailand also hosted the 1959 inaugural games, 1967 games, 1975 games, and the 1985 games.

The Thai Olympic Committee planned the event to coincide with the commemoration of the 80th birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who was also the gold medalist of the sailing event at the 1967 games. The games were held from 6 to 15 December 2007, although several events had commenced from 27 November 2007. Around 5282 athletes participated in the event, which featured 475 events in 43 sports. It was opened by Prince Vajiralongkorn, the Crown Prince of Thailand, at the 80th Birthday Stadium.

The final medal tally was led by host nation Thailand, followed by Malaysia and Vietnam. Several Games and national records were broken during the games. The games were deemed generally successful with the rising standards of competition amongst the Southeast Asian nations.

Host city

Singapore was due to host the 2007 Southeast Asian Games, but it withdrew from hosting to demolish and rebuild its national stadium. A general assembly of the SEA Games Federation Council during the 2003 Southeast Asian Games in Hanoi, Vietnam approved Thailand's hosting of the games.

Development and preparation

On 24 February 2006, northeast Thailand's Nakhon Ratchasima province authorities met to discuss the 2007 SEA Games schedule, and progress on the province's under-construction US$65 million sports complex. Presided over by Governor Somboon Ngamlak, the meeting provided an overview of facilities and ended with reassurances that facilities would be ready for the SEA Games in 2007.

Broadcast giant GMA Network, Inc. announced on April 18, 2006 for the formal signing of contract between GMA Network, Inc., Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) for the live television airing of 15th Asian Games in Doha, Qatar on December 1 to 15, 2006 and 24th Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand on December 6 to 15, 2007.

It feels like 1995 for GMA, when the network was branded as a "rainbow satellite" and its slogan was "Where You Belong." GMA was the official network of Pope John Paul II's visit to the 10th World Youth Day in Manila, Philippines, from January 12 to 16, 1995.

GMA and QTV (owned by Citynet Network Marketing and Productions, Inc.) will air the games live as the two free-to-air television networks go 24 hours a day on June 14, 2006, in time for GMA's 56th anniversary. The station will spend on airing the two regional sports meets aside from the boxing matches of 8-time world boxing champion Manny Pacquiao for 2007. The final release of banners and pins and its official merchandise, as well as the radio and television plugs for the multimedia coverage to release on August 28, 2007 at the Grand Ballroom of the Sofitel Philippine Plaza as part of the official 100-day countdown to the 2007 SEA Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, on December 6 to 15, 2007.

GMA: The Official Network banner for the 2007 SEA Games

GMA: The Official Network pin for the 2007 SEA Games

PLDT, Jollibee, Unilever, PAGCOR, and PCSO are the sponsors of the television coverage of the two regional games.

Mike Enriquez, Jessica Soho, Mel Tiangco, Jay Sonza, German Moreno, Angelique Lazo, Vicky Morales, Paolo Bediones, Tito Sotto, Ruth Cabal, Nelson Canlas, Arnold Clavio, Mickey Ferriols, Rovilson Fernandez, Mav Gonzales, Ralph Guzman, Rico Hizon, Carlo Ledesma, Jiggy Manicad, Ivan Mayrina, Benjie Paras, Miriam Quiambao, Lhar Santiago, Rhea Santos, Howie Severino, Connie Sison, Emil Sumangil, Valerie Tan, Jay Taruc, Raffy Tima, Mariz Umali, Iya Villania, Ryan Agoncillo, KC Montero, Suzi Entrata, Kara David, Luchi Cruz-Valdes, Ninna Castro, Lyn Ching, Gin de Mesa, Margaux Salcedo, Melissa Gecolea, Gigi Grande, Arnell Ignacio, Susan Enriquez, Jimmy Gil, Lala Roque, Mark Salazar, Melo del Prado, Joel Reyes Zobel, Tisha Silang, Antoinette Taus, Francis Magalona, Dingdong Dantes, Martin Andanar, Butch Francisco, Vic Sotto, Joey de Leon, Cacai Velasquez, Janno Gibbs, The Eraserheads, Jaya, Michael V., Side A, Verni Varga, Ricky Lo, Lolit Solis, Rudy Fernandez, Bobby Nalzaro, Tek Ocampo, Noly Calvo, Jeja Rose Pornan-Simeon, Orly Mercado, Connie Angeles, Susan Valdez, Mildred Ortega, Gina de Venecia, Rose Clores, Nonoy Zuñiga, Jimmy Santos, Jose Mari Chan and Dolphy situated from the Studio 2 of GMA Network Center and Westside Studio of GMA Broadway Centrum, they are wearing female dresses and male tuxedos provided by SM Department Store and male barong tagalogs provided by Kultura Filipino inside SM Supermalls.

Arnold Clavio and Jessica Soho anchored the papal visit coverage in January 1995 and January 2015.

GMA's 1992 logo without the words "Rainbow Satellite"

GMA broadcasts on 105 analog and digital free-to-air television stations all over the Philippines, broadcasting nationwide via the GMA Rainbow Satellite.

Luzon

• GMA-7 Manila
• TV-7 Batanes
• TV-5 Laoag
• TV-48 Vigan
• TV-7 Abra
• TV-11 La Union
• TV-7 Tuguegarao
• TV-13 Aparri
• TV-30 Apayao
• TV-9 Kalinga
• TV-5 Mountain Province
• TV-7 Santiago, Isabela
• TV-13 Cauayan, Isabela
• TV-21 Ilagan, Isabela
• TV-5 Bayombong
• TV-12 Quirino
• TV-10 Baguio
• TV-10 Dagupan
• TV-5 Baler
• TV-7 Cabanatuan
• TV-35 Llanera
• TV-10 Olongapo
• TV-5 Botolan
• TV-14 Iba
• TV-10 Pampanga
• TV-48 Tarlac
• TV-3 Bagac
• TV-27 Balanga
• TV-30 Angat
• TV-46 Malolos
• TV-26 Obando
• TV-12 Batangas
• TV-26 Tagaytay
• TV-15 Lucena
• TV-48 Patnanungan
• TV-23 Calamba
• TV-26 San Pablo
• TV-44 Jalajala, Rizal
• TV-13 Occidental Mindoro
• TV-11 Bongabong, Oriental Mindoro
• TV-13 Boac, Marinduque
• TV-5 Santa Cruz, Marinduque
• TV-10 Torrijos, Marinduque
• TV-12 Puerto Princesa, Palawan
• TV-6 Brooke’s Point, Palawan
• TV-8 Coron, Palawan
• TV-17 Cuyo, Palawan
• TV-13 Balabac, Palawan
• TV-7 Romblon
• TV-7 Masbate
• TV-7 Naga
• TV-8 Malilipot
• TV-12 Legazpi
• TV-13 Catanduanes
• TV-2 Sorsogon
• TV-8 Daet

Visayas

• TV-5 Calbayog
• TV-9 Catarman
• TV-11 Catubig
• TV-13 Catbalogan
• TV-8 Borongan
• TV-35 Naval, Biliran
• TV-10 Tacloban
• TV-12 Ormoc
• TV-10 Capoocan, Leyte
• TV-12 Isabel, Leyte
• TV-44 Maasin
• TV-2 Kalibo
• TV-35 Malay, Aklan
• TV-12 San Jose, Antique
• TV-35 Culasi, Antique
• TV-5 Roxas
• TV-6 Iloilo
• TV-9 Guimaras
• TV-13 Bacolod
• TV-23 Bais
• TV-5 Cadiz
• TV-30 Murcia, Negros Occidental
• TV-7 Cebu
• TV-26 Bogo
• TV-11 Samboan
• TV-11 Bohol
• TV-5 Dumaguete
• TV-11 Guihulngan
• TV-48 Siquijor
• TV-10 Sipalay

Mindanao

• TV-41 Mambajao
• TV-35 Cagayan de Oro
• TV-30 Gingoog
• TV-12 Bukidnon
• TV-4 Dipolog
• TV-34 Oroquieta
• TV-5 Ozamiz
• TV-3 Pagadian
• TV-11 Iligan
• TV-26 Butuan
• TV-10 Surigao
• TV-2 Tandag
• TV-35 Bislig
• TV-3 Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur
• TV-5 Davao
• TV-44 Tagum
• TV-35 Panabo
• TV-3 Digos
• TV-13 Malita
• TV-21 Baganga
• TV-48 Mati
• TV-30 Nabunturan
• TV-6 Kidapawan
• TV-12 Cotabato
• TV-13 Marawi
• TV-8 General Santos
• TV-13 Koronadal
• TV-30 Tacurong
• TV-2 Ipil
• TV-30 Imelda, Zamboanga Sibugay
• TV-9 Zamboanga
• TV-12 Jolo
• TV-44 Tawi-Tawi

By August 1, 2007, the negotiations between media companies GMA Network, Inc. and ABS-CBN Corporation along with TV5 Network, Inc., People's Television Network, Inc. Radio Philippines Network, Inc., Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation and Central Luzon Television together with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) to sign a contract for the live television airing of the 24th Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand from December 6 to 15, 2007.

ABS-CBN, along with UHF channel Studio 23 and cable channel Balls, aired the countdown plugs and teasers for the live nationwide and worldwide coverage of the 24th Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand from December 6 to 15, 2007.

Contract signing with ABS-CBN executives for the live coverage of the 2007 Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, on November 12, 2007, at Restaurant 9501, 14th floor, ELJ Communications Center in Quezon City.

Spotted at the contract signing ceremony were ABS-CBN Chairman, President and CEO Eugenio Lopez III, ABS-CBN Chief Operating Officer for Broadcast Cory Vidanes, ABS-CBN Integrated Corporate Communications Head Bong Osorio, ABS-CBN Vice President for Sports Division Peter Musngi, Ambassador Marciano Paynor, Jr., Former Senator Vicente Sotto III, Solar Entertainment Corporation President and CEO Wilson Tieng, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation chairman Efraim Genuino, Philippine Olympic Committee chairman Jose Cojuangco, Jr., Tagaytay, Cavite Mayor Abraham Tolentino and Philippine Sports Commission chairman William Butch Ramirez.

ABS-CBN, along with sister station Studio 23, cable and satellite TV channels DZMM TeleRadyo and Balls, rival networks GMA-7, PTV-4, ABC-TV5, RPN-9, Q-11, IBC-13, and CLTV-36, and cable TV providers Sky Cable, Global Destiny Cable, Cablelink, Dream Satellite TV, Cignal and Sky Direct are the official Philippine broadcasters of the 24th Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, from December 6 to 15, 2007. It also broadcasts live nationwide and worldwide via satellite on all platforms - analog and digital free-to-air television, cable television, satellite television, AM radio, FM radio, and Internet via Facebook and YouTube on PCs, smartphones, and tablets.

It can be seen simulcast live nationwide on all television stations of ABS-CBN all over the Philippines:

Luzon

• ABS-CBN 2 Manila
• TV-7 Laoag
• TV-11 Vigan
• TV-40 La Union
• TV-32 Dagupan
• TV-46 Alaminos
• TV-11 Abra
• TV-3 Baguio
• TV-11 Mountain Province
• TV-11 Batanes
• TV-3 Tuguegarao
• TV-9 Aparri
• TV-2 Isabela
• TV-11 Bayombong
• TV-13 Cabarroguis
• TV-6 Iba
• TV-13 Botolan
• TV-12 Olongapo
• TV-22 Bataan
• TV-46 Pampanga
• TV-32 Tarlac
• TV-34 Bulacan
• TV-16 Malolos
• TV-12 Meycauayan
• TV-19 Obando
• TV-32 Cabanatuan
• TV-22 Baler
• TV-40 Rizal
• TV-6 Calamba
• TV-46 San Pablo
• TV-32 Tagaytay
• TV-10 Batangas
• TV-38 Lipa
• TV-2 Lucena
• TV-11 Occidental Mindoro
• TV-21 Calapan
• TV-7 Puerto Princesa
• TV-10 Sofronio Española, Palawan
• TV-12 Taytay, Palawan
• TV-19 Brooke’s Point, Palawan
• TV-5 Coron, Palawan
• TV-21 Cuyo, Palawan
• TV-7 Balabac, Palawan
• TV-52 Kalayaan, Palawan
• TV-11 Roxas, Palawan
• TV-12 Taytay, Palawan
• TV-9 Romblon
• TV-10 Daet
• TV-11 Naga
• TV-8 Iriga
• TV-7 Catanduanes
• TV-4 Legazpi
• TV-10 Tabaco
• TV-10 Masbate
• TV-7 Sorsogon

Visayas

• TV-10 Iloilo
• TV-9 Kalibo
• TV-21 Boracay
• TV-44 Antique
• TV-21 Roxas
• TV-4 Bacolod
• TV-8 Bais
• TV-40 Murcia
• TV-7 Cadiz
• TV-26 Sipalay
• TV-3 Cebu
• TV-2 Toledo, Cebu
• TV-13 Barili, Cebu
• TV-7 Siquijor
• TV-9 Bohol
• TV-12 Dumaguete
• TV-13 Biliran
• TV-2 Tacloban
• TV-5 Catarman
• TV-7 Catbalogan
• TV-10 Calbayog
• TV-38 Borongan

Mindanao

• TV-42 Dipolog
• TV-11 Pagadian
• TV-5 Ipil
• TV-3 Zamboanga
• TV-2 Cagayan de Oro
• TV-47 Mambajao
• TV-2 Malaybalay
• TV-4 Iligan
• TV-7 Ozamiz
• TV-2 Marawi
• TV-11 Butuan
• TV-12 Surigao
• TV-26 Tandag
• TV-2 Bislig
• TV-5 Agusan del Sur
• TV-4 Davao
• TV-24 Mati
• TV-23 Baganga
• TV-11 Malita
• TV-50 Tagum
• TV-46 Nabunturan
• TV-3 General Santos
• TV-4 Koronadal
• TV-7 Alabel
• TV-4 Kidapawan
• TV-5 Cotabato
• TV-10 Jolo
• TV-42 Tawi-Tawi

Also on radio via Radyo Patrol and MOR: My Only Radio For Life:

AM Stations

• DZMM 630 kHz Mega Manila
• 1008 kHz Laoag
• 837 kHz Vigan
• 828 kHz La Union
• 1377 kHz Dagupan
• 981 kHz Alaminos
• 675 kHz Bani, Pangasinan
• 621 kHz Urdaneta
• 693 kHz Bolinao, Pangasinan
• 1215 kHz Baguio
• 657 kHz Bontoc
• 612 kHz Tabuk
• 594 kHz Batanes
• 720 kHz Aparri
• 855 kHz Tuguegarao
• 828 kHz Isabela
• 89.3 MHz Bayombong
• 1188 kHz Baler, Aurora
• 729 kHz Cabanatuan
• 1368 kHz Tarlac
• 1512 kHz Olongapo
• 1251 kHz Balanga
• 93.3 MHz Pampanga
• 95.1 MHz Calamba
• 1197 kHz San Pablo
• 1080 kHz Batangas
• 639 kHz Lucena
• 855 kHz Calapan
• 612 kHz Taytay, Palawan
• 765 kHz Puerto Princesa, Palawan
• 864 kHz Daet
• 1359 kHz Naga
• 756 kHz Iriga
• 90.1 MHz Virac
• 684 kHz Legazpi
• 1125 kHz Sorsogon
• 684 kHz San Jose, Antique
• 945 kHz Roxas
• 1494 kHz Iloilo
• 666 kHz Bacolod
• 1017 kHz Sagay
• 95.7 MHz Guihulngan
• 1206 kHz Dumaguete
• 1512 kHz Cebu
• 666 kHz Bohol
• 882 kHz Maasin
• 1098 kHz Sogod
• 918 kHz Baybay, Leyte
• 954 kHz Tacloban
• 1476 kHz Calbayog
• 1188 kHz Catbalogan
• 792 kHz Catarman
• 91.3 MHz Oroquieta
• 106.7 MHz Ozamiz
• 1557 KHz Marawi
• 1026 kHz Iligan
• 990 kHz Cagayan de Oro
• 621 kHz Malaybalay
• 1206 kHz Butuan
• 864 kHz Surigao
• 1044 kHz Tagum
• 1296 kHz Davao
• 1233 kHz Digos
• 1269 kHz General Santos
• 864 kHz Koronadal
• 100.1 MHz Kidapawan
• 1179 kHz Cotabato
• 1332 kHz Zamboanga
• 765 kHz Jolo
• 1017 kHz Tawi-Tawi

FM Stations

• DWRR 101.9 Mega Manila
• DWEL 95.5 Laoag
• DZVC 96.1 Vigan
• DWTL 90.3 La Union
• DWEC 97.3 Dagupan
• DZRR 103.1 Baguio
• 102.9 Bangued
• DZTU 100.5 Tuguegarao
• DWBA 91.3 Isabela
• 105.7 Bayombong
• 103.3 Cabarroguis
• DWZT 100.7 Olongapo
• DWNV 88.5 Pampanga
• DZLS 107.1 Tarlac
• 100.5 Baler
• DWRS 102.5 Tagaytay
• 104.7 Calamba
• DWUD 92.7 Batangas
• DZLC 91.9 Lucena
• DZOC 101.1 Occidental Mindoro
• DZAF 95.9 Oriental Mindoro
• DYCU 99.9 Puerto Princesa, Palawan
• DYEA 99.7 Sofronio Espanola, Palawan
• DZDT 93.7 Daet
• DWAC 93.5 Naga
• DWRD 93.9 Legazpi
• DZSC 106.3 Sorsogon
• DYMV 100.7 Masbate
• 106.5 Antique
• DYKA 88.3 Kalibo
• DYRS 105.1 Roxas
• DYMC 91.1 Iloilo
• DYOO 101.5 Bacolod
• DYEL 92.5 Dumaguete
• DYLS 97.1 Cebu
• DYBH 90.7 Tagbilaran
• DYTC 94.3 Tacloban
• 96.5 Catbalogan-Calbayog
• 88.1 Catarman
• DXEC 91.9 Cagayan de Oro
• DXAG 100.7 Iligan
• DXMT 99.5 Ozamiz
• DXXB 88.3 Malaybalay
• DXAS 92.1 Butuan
• 98.1 Prosperidad
• DXIT 99.1 Surigao
• DXSF 100.7 Trento
• DXRR 101.1 Davao
• DXDI 90.3 Digos
• DXBC 92.7 General Santos
• DXAP 98.5 Koronadal
• DXKW 95.3 Kidapawan
• DXPS 95.1 Cotabato
• 107.7 Dipolog
• DXAE 89.5 Pagadian
• 96.9 Ipil
• DXFH 98.7 Zamboanga

The grand media launch of A Time for Heroes, the 2007 Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, along with the unveiling of the 100-day countdown clock, was held at the Grand Ballroom of Sofitel Philippine Plaza, attended by entertainment and sports columnists and writers and business, entertainment, lifestyle, and sports personalities. The momentous occasion was filled with excitement and anticipation as the esteemed guests gathered to witness the spectacle that would soon unfold. The extravagant event was a true celebration of the spirit of athleticism and camaraderie, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Southeast Asia. As the clock ticked down, the air was filled with a palpable sense of anticipation as participants from all corners of the region prepared themselves for the ultimate challenge. The grandeur of the occasion was matched only by the grandeur of the venue itself, with the elegant Grand Ballroom of Sofitel Philippine Plaza serving as the perfect backdrop for this momentous event. The meticulously planned launch event was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the organizers, who spared no effort in ensuring that every detail was executed flawlessly. The presence of renowned entertainment and sports columnists and writers added an extra touch of glamour to the proceedings, as they eagerly awaited the opportunity to share this monumental event with the world. As the event unfolded, it became abundantly clear that A Time for Heroes was not just any ordinary sporting event, but a true testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of unity. The grand media launch was a resounding success, leaving those in attendance with lasting memories and a profound sense of pride in being part of such a historic moment. The 100-day countdown clock, a poignant symbol of the time remaining until the commencement of the games, served as a constant reminder that a new chapter was about to unfold in the annals of Southeast Asian sports history. With each passing moment, the excitement and anticipation continued to build, reaching a crescendo that would soon erupt into an explosion of energy, determination, and triumph. The grand media launch of A Time for Heroes will forever be etched in the collective memory of those who were fortunate enough to be a part of it, serving as a timeless reminder of the power and beauty of sportsmanship.

Spotted in the launch were Ambassador Marciano Paynor, Jr., Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis Singson, and former Senator Vicente Sotto III, alongside a group of distinguished guests who graced the event with their presence. The notable individuals included respected diplomats, influential senators, and esteemed political personalities, all of whom added an aura of prestige to the occasion.

Also present on the occasion was Atty. Dong Puno, Prof. Cheche Lazaro, Christian Esguerra, Sis. Angelique Lazo-Mayuga, Christine Bersola-Babao, Phoemela Baranda, PAGCOR Chairman Efrahim Genuino, POC Chairman Jose Cojuangco, Jr., Tagaytay, Cavite Mayor Abraham Tolentino, PSC Chairman William Ramirez, Joaquin Henson, Bill Velasco, Ricky Lo, Boy Abunda, Butch Francisco, Raymond Gutierrez, Joey de Leon, Crispina Martinez-Belen, Jeffrey Espiritu, Dindo Balares, Isah V. Red, Ricky Calderon, Dolly Anne Carvajal, German Moreno, Lolit Solis, Cristy Fermin, DJ Jhai Ho, Richard Gomez, and Kim Atienza.

By the start of September 2007, when television networks, newspapers, and websites would set up their countdown clocks for the 24th Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.

Peter Musngi, Lloyd Oliver Corpuz, Beng Chua, Michael Knight, Terence Khan, and Dennis Antenor Jr. were carefully handpicked to lend their mesmerizing voices to the countdown and teaser plugs on both radio and television. Their exceptional talent, expertise, and crisp articulation add a touch of brilliance, captivating audiences across the airwaves. With their sonorous voices resonating through the speakers, the countdown and teaser plugs come alive, creating an atmosphere of anticipation and excitement. Through their unwavering charisma and professional dedication, they breathe life into each word, effortlessly engaging listeners and viewers alike. Whether it’s through their velvety tones or dynamic delivery, Peter Musngi, Lloyd Oliver Corpuz, Beng Chua, Michael Knight, Terence Khan, and Dennis Antenor, Jr. elevate the countdown and teaser plugs to new heights, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of the audience. Their remarkable collaboration in this endeavor ensures that every moment leading up to the main event is adorned with sheer excellence and unwavering passion.

Several prominent broadcasting networks offer comprehensive coverage of various topics and events, including the 2007 Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, from December 6 to 15, 2007.

One of the notable broadcasting networks is ABS-CBN. A widely recognized network that provides extensive news coverage, entertainment programs, and a diverse array of content catering to a wide range of viewers’ interests. This network seamlessly blends informative news reporting with captivating entertainment shows, providing a well-rounded viewing experience.

Another prominent network is PTV, which stands for People’s Television Network. This government-owned channel is known for its commitment to broadcasting informative and educational content. PTV aims to serve as a platform for delivering unbiased news, informative programs, and thought-provoking documentaries, encouraging viewers to stay informed and engaged.

ABC, or the Associated Broadcasting Company, is another channel and flagship network of TV5 Network Inc., which is owned by MediaQuest Holdings, the multimedia subsidiary of the telecommunications conglomerate PLDT. This subsidiary provides diverse content to its audience. From news coverage to captivating dramas and engaging reality shows, ABC offers a wide range of programming options, ensuring there is something for everyone.

GMA, short for Global Media Arts, is a major Philippine television network that has gained widespread recognition for its exceptional programming. With a focus on delivering top-notch news reporting, quality entertainment, and compelling drama series, GMA has established itself as a pillar in the broadcasting industry.

RPN, or Radio Philippines Network, takes pride in its commitment to delivering relevant news coverage, exciting entertainment, and a mix of local and international shows. With its extensive coverage of news and current affairs, RPN keeps viewers well-informed while entertaining them with a variety of engaging programs.

Q, previously known as QTV, is a television network that offers a diverse range of content, including lifestyle programs, travel shows, and thought-provoking documentaries. QTV ensures there is always something intriguing for viewers seeking unique and captivating content.

Additionally, IBC, or Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation, is known for its balanced news coverage, entertaining variety shows, and engaging sports programs. With a wide range of content, IBC caters to the diverse interests of its viewers, ensuring they are entertained and well-informed.

Studio 23, a sister channel of ABS-CBN, focuses on providing exciting sports coverage, youth-oriented programming, and a wide array of entertaining shows. With a youthful and vibrant approach, Studio 23 connects with the younger generation while offering quality content for viewers of all ages.

Torch relay

A torch relay was held across the nation prior to the hosting of the games. On 8 November 2007, Prince Vajiralongkorn, on behalf of his father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, presented the royal flame to the games organising committee chairman, Suvit Yodmani. Following the presentation, the flame was installed in Bangkok at the Bangkok City Hall. After that, the flame was relayed from Bangkok to provinces such as Chonburi, Samut Songkhram, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ratchaburi, Suphanburi, Nakhon Sawan, Phichit, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Loei, Nong Khai, Sakhon Nahkhon, Mukdahan, Ubon Ratchatthani, Surin, Roi Et, and Khon Kaen before arriving in the host province, Nakhon Ratchasima on 26 November 2007. In Nakhon Ratchasima, the flame was relayed across its districts such as Phimai, Choke Chai, Pak Thong Chai, Pak Chong and Soongnern before arrived at Nakhon Ratchasima City, the host city of the games on 1 December 2007. The flame was then installed at the monument of Thao Suranari before the games' opening ceremony.

Branding and design

The logo of the games is a silhouette of three sailing boats arranged in a row, representing the 40th anniversary of His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej winning a gold medal in sailing at the 1967 Southeast Asian Peninsular Games and the 80th anniversary of his birthday. It was designed by Prasit Nunsung from Nonthaburi. The three boats in the logo represent the development, the blending of colours, and the technology of Thailand. While the yellow colour on the largest boat represents the King himself, along with red and blue, it is one of the colours on the flag of ASEAN and represents the unity and friendship among the games' participants and the people of Southeast Asia. The 10-circle chain, which is also the logo of the Southeast Asian Games Federation, represents the 10 member nations, excluding Timor-Leste. The shape of the boats resembles the Pimai castle, a symbol of the host city Nakhon Ratchasima, as well as the Northeast region of Thailand and its thousand-year-old civilization.

The mascot of the games is a Korat cat named Can. He wears the Northeast region of Thailand's traditional garments and plays the khaen, a mouth organ that the region is famous for. The name of the musical instrument aforementioned coincidentally has a similar pronunciation to his name. He was created by Sa-ard Jomngarm, and his name "Can" was given by an eight-year-old girl, Piyathida Sreewimon.

Four songs were composed for the games, including "Rhythm of the Winner", the theme song of the games. The other songs are: "We are the Water", "Friendship Card," and "Korat SEA Games".

But the grand media launch of A Time for Heroes, the 2007 Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, along with the unveiling of the 100-day countdown clock, was held at the Grand Ballroom of Sofitel Philippine Plaza, attended by entertainment and sports columnists and writers. The momentous occasion was filled with excitement and anticipation as the esteemed guests gathered to witness the spectacle that would soon unfold. The extravagant event was a true celebration of the spirit of athleticism and camaraderie, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Southeast Asia. As the clock ticked down, the air was filled with a palpable sense of anticipation as participants from all corners of the region prepared themselves for the ultimate challenge. The grandeur of the occasion was matched only by the grandeur of the venue itself, with the elegant Grand Ballroom of Sofitel Philippine Plaza serving as the perfect backdrop for this momentous event. The meticulously planned launch event was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the organizers, who spared no effort in ensuring that every detail was executed flawlessly. The presence of renowned entertainment and sports columnists and writers added an extra touch of glamour to the proceedings, as they eagerly awaited the opportunity to share this monumental event with the world. As the event unfolded, it became abundantly clear that A Time for Heroes was not just any ordinary sporting event, but a true testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of unity. The grand media launch was a resounding success, leaving those in attendance with lasting memories and a profound sense of pride in being part of such a historic moment. The 100-day countdown clock, a poignant symbol of the time remaining until the commencement of the games, served as a constant reminder that a new chapter was about to unfold in the annals of Southeast Asian sports history. With each passing moment, the excitement and anticipation continued to build, reaching a crescendo that would soon erupt into an explosion of energy, determination, and triumph. The grand media launch of A Time for Heroes will forever be etched in the collective memory of those who were fortunate enough to be a part of it, serving as a timeless reminder of the power and beauty of sportsmanship.

Spotted in the launch were Ambassador Marciano Paynor, Jr., Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis Singson, and former Senator Vicente Sotto III, alongside a group of distinguished guests who graced the event with their presence. The notable individuals included respected diplomats, influential senators, and esteemed political personalities, all of whom added an aura of prestige to the occasion.

Also present on the occasion was Atty. Dong Puno, Prof. Cheche Lazaro, Christian Esguerra, Sis. Angelique Lazo-Mayuga, Christine Bersola-Babao, Phoemela Baranda, PAGCOR Chairman Efrahim Genuino, Philippine Olympic Committee Chairman Jose Cojuangco, Jr., Tagaytay City, Cavite Mayor Abraham Tolentino, Philippine Sports Commission Chairman William Ramirez, Joaquin Henson, Bill Velasco, Ricky Lo, Boy Abunda, Butch Francisco, Raymond Gutierrez, Joey de Leon, Crispina Martinez-Belen, Jeffrey Espiritu, Dindo Balares, Isah V. Red, Ricky Calderon, Dolly Anne Carvajal, German Moreno, Lolit Solis, Cristy Fermin, DJ Jhai Ho, Richard Gomez, and Kim Atienza.

By the start of September 2007, television networks, newspapers, and websites would set up their countdown clocks for the 24th Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, from December 6 to 15, 2007.

Peter Musngi, Lloyd Oliver Corpuz, Beng Chua, Michael Borricano, Terence Khan, and Dennis Antenor, Jr. were carefully handpicked to impart their mesmerizing voices for the countdown and teaser plugs of the 2007 Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, on both radio and television. Their exceptional talent, expertise, and crisp articulation add a touch of brilliance, captivating audiences across the airwaves. With their sonorous voices resonating through the speakers, the countdown and teaser plugs come alive, creating an atmosphere of anticipation and excitement. Through their unwavering charisma and professional dedication, they breathe life into each word, effortlessly engaging listeners and viewers alike. Whether it’s through their velvety tones or dynamic delivery, Peter Musngi, Lloyd Oliver Corpuz, Beng Chua, Michael Borricano, Terence Khan, and Dennis Antenor, Jr. elevate the countdown and teaser plugs to new heights, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of the audience. Their remarkable collaboration in this endeavor ensures that every moment leading up to the main event is adorned with sheer excellence and unwavering passion.

The Philippine Daily Inquirer, with radio station DZIQ Inquirer Radio 990, served as the media partner of the 24th Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, from December 6 to 15, 2007, with the help of the PLDT facilities linking from Manila, Philippines, to Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, via satellite.

The title of the coverage of the 2007 SEA Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand is A Time for Heroes, produced by production company Airtime Marketing Philippines, Inc., sports divisions ABS-CBN Sports, GMA Sports, ABC Sports, Solar Sports, and pan-Asian pay television network ESPN Asia and aired on ABS-CBN, PTV, ABC, GMA, RPN, QTV, IBC, Studio 23 and CLTV.

The live television coverage of the 24th Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand from December 6 to 15, 2007, was aired by the Philippines' ABS-CBN, People's Television Network (PTV), Associated Broadcasting Company (ABC), GMA Network, Radio Philippines Network (RPN), Quality Television (QTV), Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation (IBC), and Central Luzon Television (CLTV) in partnership with Airtime Marketing Philippines, Inc. and cable sports television network ESPN Asia. During the nine days of the regional sporting event, the said free-to-air television networks preempted regular programming in the morning, afternoon, and evening, excluding for news programs to give way for the coverage.

TV network resident announcer Peter Musngi, Lloyd Oliver Corpuz, Eric Galang, also known as Chinapaps, Al Torres, Shirley Escalante, Dennis Antenor, Jr, and Yuel Reyes, are doing the 100-day countdown promotional plug for the 2007 Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, while Paolo Abrera, Jenny Almazan, Lia Andanar-Yu, Sol Aragones, Adrian Ayalin, Julius Babao, Gerry Baja, Joyce Balancio, Dr. Carl Balita, Brother Jun Banaag, Phoemela Baranda, Maricar Bautista, Cito Beltran, Jeff Canoy, Raya Capulong, Jorge Carino, Jing Castaneda, Angelo Castro, Jr., Willard Cheng, Ginger Conejero, Karmina Constantino, Nina Corpuz, Cheryl Cosim, RG Cruz, Ron Cruz, Jessie Cruzat, Bea Cuadra, Karen Davila, Karen de Guzman, Vic de Leon Lima, Harlene Delgado, Katrina Domingo, Ces Drilon, Mario Dumaual, Alvin Elchico, DJ Richard Enriquez, Ted Failon, Gretchen Fullido, Gigi Grande, Agatha Gregorio, Pia Gutierrez, Mico Halili, Paul Henson, Zen Hernandez, Pia Hontiveros, Jon Ibanez, Mon Ilagan, Paige Javier, Lynda Jumilla, Ed Lingao, Maan Macapagal, Twink Macaraig, Johnson Manabat, Tina Monzon-Palma, Sheryll Mundo, Timi Nubla, Henry Omaga-Diaz, Apa Ongpin, Patrick Paez, Stanley Palisada, Amy Perez, Prof. Ricky Rosales, Anton Roxas, Jay Ruiz, Kaxandra Salonga, Korina Sanchez, Marlo Sanchez, Alex Santos, Darylle Sarmiento, Lexi Schulze, Bernadette Sembrano, Boyet Sison, Christopher Sitson, Anthony Taberna, Sherrie Anne Torres, Nadia Trinidad, Bill Velasco, Tony Velasquez, Vince Villar, Freddie Webb, Pinky Webb, Luis Pantoja, Mike Navallo, Angel Movido, Ryan Ang, Ina Reformina, and DJ Chacha situated at the Studio 7 of the ABS-CBN Broadcasting Center, Mike Enriquez, Jessica Soho, Mel Tiangco, Jay Sonza, German Moreno, Angelique Lazo, Vicky Morales, Paolo Bediones, Tito Sotto, Ruth Cabal, Nelson Canlas, Arnold Clavio, Mickey Ferriols, Rovilson Fernandez, Mav Gonzales, Ralph Guzman, Rico Hizon, Carlo Ledesma, Jiggy Manicad, Ivan Mayrina, Benjie Paras, Miriam Quiambao, Lhar Santiago, Rhea Santos, Howie Severino, Connie Sison, Emil Sumangil, Valerie Tan, Jay Taruc, Raffy Tima, Mariz Umali, Iya Villania, Ryan Agoncillo, KC Montero, Suzi Entrata, Kara David, Luchi Cruz-Valdes, Ninna Castro, Lyn Ching, Gin de Mesa, Margaux Salcedo, Melissa Gecolea, Arnell Ignacio, Susan Enriquez, Jimmy Gil, Lala Roque, Mark Salazar, Melo del Prado, Joel Reyes Zobel, Tisha Silang, Antoinette Taus, Francis Magalona, Dingdong Dantes, Martin Andanar, Butch Francisco, Vic Sotto, Joey de Leon, Cacai Velasquez, Janno Gibbs, The Eraserheads, Jaya, Michael V., Side A, Verni Varga, Ricky Lo, Lolit Solis, Rudy Fernandez, Bobby Nalzaro, Tek Ocampo, Noly Calvo, Jeja Rose Pornan-Simeon, Orly Mercado, Connie Angeles, Susan Valdez, Mildred Ortega, Gina de Venecia, Rose Clores, Nonoy Zuñiga, Jimmy Santos, Jose Mari Chan and Dolphy was at the Westside Studio of GMA Broadway Centrum and Studio 2 of GMA Network Center, Deo Macalma, Angelo Palmones, Dely Magpayo, Joe Taruc, Andy Verde, Ruth Abao, Malou Cabral, Morly Alinio, Bing Formento, Regi Espiritu, Rey Sibayan, Rommel Fuertes, Edmar Estabillo, Florante Rosales, Dennis Antenor, Jr., Sherwin Alfaro, Dr. Cesar Chavez, Prof. Dody Lacuna, Atty. Cherryl Adami-Molina, Atty. Dodo Dulay, Boy Gonzales, Val Gonzales, Atty. Rica Herra, Thea Pecho Corpuz, JV Ejercito, Teddy Boy Locsin, Atty. Boying Remulla, Henry Uri, Karen Ow-Yong, Jana Abejero, Niño Padilla, and Atty. Rhina Seco from the MBC Media Group (MMG) Building, Star City, Vicente Sotto Street, Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay while the color commentators reporting live from Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand were Marco Benitez, Migs Bustos, Dyan Castillejo, Sam Coloso, Sam Corrales, Sydney Crespo, Apple David, Paolo del Rosario, Andrei Felix, Pauline Gaston, Boom Gonzales, Martin Javier, Ian Laurel, Cesca Litton, Gianna Llanes, Chino Lui Pio, Gretchen Malalad, TJ Manotoc, Angelique Manto, Rox Montealegre, Marc Nelson, Mozzy Ravena, Anne Remulla-Canda, Mikee Reyes, Tricia Robredo, Lance Santiago and Sharon Yu and sports correspondents Gretchen Ho, Renz Ongkiko, Chiqui Roa-Puno and Chino Trinidad.

"Fight for SEA Games crumbs underway."

Peping sees Thai victory, Philippine athletes check in

By Ernesto A. Gonzales, Sports Feature Editor

Published on page A29 in the December 6, 2007 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer

Nakhon Ratchasima—At least, the overall winner of the two preceding Southeast Asian Games started to shape up midway through the competition.

This time, however, everybody acknowledges a runaway victory for host Thailand—long before the opening of the 24th edition of the Games, which is set for Thursday at the main stadium of the Nakhon Ratchasima Sports Competition Center here.

"There's no way they're going to lose. It's the birthday of their King," said Philippine Olympic Committee president Jose "Peping" Cojuangco, Jr., who led the first big batch of 591-strong Philippine contingent that arrived here Tuesday

"The fight is for second place."

It was an uninspiring but realistic assessment of the Filipinos' chances in this biennial sports festival, which they finally dominated for the first time two years ago on their third stint as hosts.

Like Vietnam, which prevailed in 2003 while setting a record of sorts as the first home team to win on its first hosting stint, the Philippines did not emerge as a serious title contender until after the first few days of competition.

This time, Thailand, the overall runner-up in the last two editions, has been awarded the championship. And it could yet serve as the highlight of the nation's year-long celebration to mark the 80th birth anniversary of King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

The King, who occupies a revered place in the history of the competition, was a sailing champion of the Games when it was still known as the Southeast Asian Peninsular Games until 1977, celebrated his birthday on Wednesday.

With action going full blast here and in Bangkok and Pattaya on Friday, the Thais are already in command with 18 golds, 19 silvers, and seven bronzes in shooting. Singapore was in second with 10 golds, followed by Vietnam with eight victories and Malaysia and Myanmar with two each.

Meanwhile, a 139-man group headed by Philippine Sports Commission chair William "Butch" Ramirez, and including 51-man athletics contingent and the women's basketball team, planed in Wednesday. The third and largest group of 155 will check in on Thursday.

After winning 113 golds in 2005 on top of 84 silvers and 94 bronzes, the Philippines hopes to win at least 485 events to be disputed in 42 sports to secure second place over Vietnam.

Admittedly not as prepared as in 2005, when the president's husband, Jose Miguel Arroyo, raised P 160 million to fund their training, the Filipinos hope to somewhat make it a merry Yuletide season with victories in, among others, both divisions of basketball, which was not held two years ago because the country was under FIBA suspension.

The Filipinos also look forward to churning out outstanding efforts in the pool when Erica Totten, Jaclyn Marissa Pangilinan and Maria Georgina Gandionco will go for Olympic berths; in billiards where Asiad champion Antonio Gabica joins former world 9-ball king Ronnie Alcano and other traditionally rich medal sources like taekwondo, boxing, wushu, traditional boat race and athletics.

The Philippine women's football team took a 0-10 beating at the hands of Vietnam and put its fate in the hands of the defending champions.

Joey Berba finished second in the seeding run of mountain cycling behind a Thai, while the two sepak takraw squads in the hoop event were in the middle of the pack after Wednesday's initial action.

The men's team of Danilo Alipan, Harrison Castanares, Joel Carbonilla, Hector Mencarion, and Metodio Suico, Jr., was fourth after two rounds. At the same time, the women's squad of Irene Apdon, Desere Autor, Sarah Jane Catain, Gelyn Evora, and Rhea Padrigo also held forth.

The Opening Ceremony will be held on Thursday at 6 p.m., with Crown Prince Maja Vajiranlongkorn as the guest of honor.

"Missing forms delay Philippine bets in Bangkok"

By Musong R. Castillo

Published on page A29 in the December 6, 2007 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer

Nakhon Ratchasima- Several Filipino athletes, part of a big 151-athlete wave to arrive here for the 24th Southeast Asian Games, were held for more than three hours at the Bangkok International Airport on Wednesday because of a mix-up with the local accreditation force.

Photos and application forms needed for the athletes' accreditation could not be found, and the Reception and Protocol Committee of the Games scrambled to give them identification cards at the last minute.

At the Philippine International Convention Center in CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay, Metro Manila, some local media journalists needed accreditation.

That development delayed the Filipinos' arrival at the Olympic Village on the Suranaree University of Technology campus here. They checked into the village well into the night.

Members of the Philippine secretariat, led by Eleanor Navarro and Queenie Evangelista, facilitated the acquisition of new accreditation passes for the athletes, who touched down at the Bangkok airport together with Philippine Sports Commission chairman William "Butch" Ramirez.

Ramirez, who was whisked away by the VIP welcoming committee, was the second top sports official after Philippine Olympic Committee president Jose "Peping" Cojuangco.

Cojuangco planed in with more than 140 athletes and officials on Tuesday. They arrived in Korat about 10 p.m. (11 p.m. Manila time).

Update: 

"Kahit walang tulugan dito sa PICC, mga kasapi ng media mananatili dito sa Sofitel Philippine Plaza hanggang sa pagtatapos ng 24th Southeast Asian Games sa ika-15 ng Disyembre. Sinusubokan namin na ma-contact ng GMA News." - from Saksi, December 6, 2007 episode

Before the live airing of opening ceremony of the 24th Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, some of them who spotted at the central atrium fronting H&M, SM Mall of Asia are SM Supermalls president Annie Garcia, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. president Hans Sy, Steven Tan, some executives from PLDT, Smart, Maynilad, Meralco, Facebook, Friendster, Multiply, Myspace, Twitter, Tumblr and YouTube as well barangay officials and residential families in support of Filipino athletes during the 2007 SEA Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.

SM Supermalls president Annie Garcia

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. president and CEO Hans Sy

December 6, 2007 - Hours before the grand opening ceremony of the 2007 Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, the Central Atrium of SM Mall of Asia was transformed into a live viewing area occupied by a LED screen and more seats for various residents and barangay officials of Manila, including the districts of Ermita, Malate and San Andres, Pasay, Paranaque, Las Pinas, Muntinlupa and Bacoor were arrived. According to Mr. Sy, it would be broadcast at 6:30 p.m. via wide screens at the following SM Supermalls: SM North EDSA, SM City Sta. Mesa, SM Megamall, SM City Cebu, SM Southmall, SM City Bacoor, SM City Fairview, SM City Iloilo, SM City Manila, SM City Pampanga, SM City Sucat, SM City Davao, SM City CDO Uptown, SM City Bicutan, SM City Lucena, SM City Baguio, SM City Marilao, SM City Dasmariñas, SM City Batangas, SM City San Lazaro, SM City Valenzuela, SM City Molino, SM City Santa Rosa, SM City Clark, SM Mall of Asia, SM Center Pasig, SM City Lipa, SM City Bacolod, SM City Taytay, SM Center Muntinlupa, SM City Marikina, SM City Rosales, SM City Baliwag, SM City Naga, SM Center Las Piñas, SM City Rosario, SM City Tarlac, SM City San Pablo, SM City Calamba, SM City Novaliches, SM City Masinag, SM City Olongapo Downtown, SM City Consolacion, SM City San Fernando Downtown, SM City General Santos, SM Lanang, SM Aura, SM City BF Parañaque, SM City Cauayan, SM Center Angono, SM Megacenter Cabanatuan, SM City San Mateo, SM City Cabanatuan, SM Center Shaw, SM Center Sangandaan, SM Seaside City, SM City San Jose Del Monte, SM City Trece Martires, S Maison, SM Center Congressional, SM City East Ortigas, SM CDO Downtown, SM Center Antipolo Downtown, SM City Puerto Princesa, SM Center Tuguegarao Downtown, SM Center Pulilan, SM Center Lemery, SM Center Imus, SM City Urdaneta Central, SM City Telabastagan, SM City Legazpi, SM Center Ormoc, SM City Olongapo Central, SM Center Dagupan, SM City Butuan, SM City Mindpro, SM City Daet, SM City Grand Central, SM City Roxas, SM City Tanza, SM City Sorsogon, SM City Tuguegarao, SM City Bataan, SM Center San Pedro, SM City Santo Tomas, SM City Caloocan, SM J Mall and SM City Laoag.

The Pia Cayetano-Paolo Abrera Affair and re-run of Ninoy Aquino assassination (Companero y Companera, Part 2)

Even the hotel guests spending at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila, when kart racers Matteo Guidicelli, Tyson Sy, Mark Bumgarner and Javi Benitez and race car driver Enzo Pastor they staying together along with Rina Go, Paolo Abrera and Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino general manager Marco Protacio, had an amazing time. The atmosphere was vibrant and filled with excitement as they enjoyed each other’s company. They engaged in thrilling conversations about their respective careers and shared stories of their adventures. From discussing the latest racing techniques to exchanging travel anecdotes, their interactions were both entertaining and educational. The bond formed during their stay created memories that will last a lifetime and it was truly a remarkable experience.

PLDT, the leading telecommunications company in the Philippines, has recently made an exciting announcement regarding the live streaming of the highly anticipated 24th Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand from December 6 to 15, 2007. This groundbreaking announcement by PLDT, the telecommunications giant in the Philippines, has caused quite a buzz among sports enthusiasts. The declaration is with regard to the much-awaited live streaming coverage of the highly anticipated 2007 SEA Games in beautiful Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. The Southeast Asian Games, which is set to take place in Thailand, is expected to be a spectacle of athletic prowess and cultural diversity. With the aid of PLDT’s advanced telecommunication technology, fans across the country can now enjoy the exhilarating sporting event from the comfort of their own homes. This exciting development aims to bring the thrill and excitement of the SEA Games right to the fingertips of every Filipino. The news of this innovative initiative has generated an immense sense of anticipation and excitement among sports enthusiasts and Filipinos alike. So gear up, sit back, and get ready to experience the thrill of the SEA Games like never before, courtesy of PLDT’s cutting-edge live streaming service.

According to PLDT, they have partnered with several prominent establishments, including Sofitel Philippine Plaza, Traders Hotel, SM Mall of Asia, SM City Sucat, SM City Bicutan, SM Southmall, and SM Center Muntinlupa. PLDT, a telecommunications company in the Philippines, has formed strategic collaborations with a number of well-known establishments. Notable among these partnerships are Sofitel Philippine Plaza, Traders Hotel, and various SM malls, including SM Mall of Asia, SM City Sucat, SM City Bicutan, SM Southmall, and SM Center Muntinlupa. These alliances have allowed PLDT to extend its reach and provide enhanced services to customers across the country.

Foreign journalists from international media outlets would be allowed to stay at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila from December 2 to 16, not only from Reuters, AP, and AFP, but also from other renowned news organizations such as BBC, CNN, The New York Times, The Guardian, and Al Jazeera, among others. It is a testament to the hotel’s reputation and commitment to accommodating media professionals from around the world.

At past 6 a.m. of Sunday, December 9, 2007, inside the Plenary Hall of the Philippine International Convention Center, a Holy Mass for the second Sunday of Advent 2007 presided by Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales and heard over ZNN Radyo Veritas 846, was attended by a large congregation. The solemn ceremony showcased magnificent hymns sung by a choir, filling the hall with their angelic voices, while the faithful participated in prayer and contemplation. The archbishop delivered a powerful sermon, imparting words of wisdom and hope to those in attendance. The event was broadcasted live, reaching a wider audience and allowing them to experience the peaceful atmosphere of the mass. People from all walks of life gathered together, united in their faith and devotion, creating a sense of community and togetherness. The sacredness of the moment resonated deeply within the hearts of the attendees, fostering a renewed sense of spirituality and strengthening their connection to God. The mass served as a reminder of the significance of the Advent season and the anticipation of the coming of Christ. It was a truly memorable and uplifting experience for everyone present, leaving a lasting impression that would inspire them throughout the Advent season and beyond.

From 8 a.m. to 12 noon (before SOP Rules) and 5:30 to 9 p.m. (after Showbiz Central), the replay of day 2 and live coverage of day 3 of the 2007 Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand was aired over GMA-7. During this time frame, viewers had the opportunity to relive the excitement of day 2 and witness the thrilling moments of day 3 unfold in real time. The broadcast, which commenced at 8 a.m. and concluded at 9 p.m., allowed sports enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the heart-pounding action and experience the thrill of the Games as if they were there in person. This extensive coverage on GMA-7 provided a fantastic platform for viewers to stay engaged and connected with the thrilling events taking place at the 2007 Southeast Asian Games.

At the PICC grounds, where they are currently enjoying a lovely picnic, they have made the decision to extend their day of fun by heading over to the highly entertaining Star City amusement park. It is important to note that this choice has been made with the peace of mind that there is no threat of terror present.

At 5 p.m., television sign-language interpreter Alfredo “Jun” Celada, Jr. confidently and gracefully commenced his highly anticipated press conference at the prestigious Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) Forum, captivating the attention of the attendees with his incredible skills and unwavering dedication. The room was filled with an air of excitement and anticipation as journalists, media personnel, and distinguished guests eagerly awaited his words, knowing that his message would transcend mere language barriers and reach the hearts of all those present. With unwavering passion and unwavering commitment, Mr. Celada proved that language is not merely confined to words, as he used his expert sign-language skills to convey his every thought and emotion, effortlessly bridging gaps and fostering understanding. As he spoke, it was evident that his talent and expertise were not limited to linguistic expression, as his dynamic and engaging presence commanded the attention of everyone in the room. With every precise and eloquent movement of his hands, Mr. Celada reminded us all of the power of inclusivity, reminding us that communication knows no bounds, and that true understanding can be achieved when language becomes the bridge that unites us all.

Celada was accompanied by former Senator and Estrada cabinet secretary Dr. Orly Mercado and wife Dr. Susan Pineda, fellow Kapwa Ko, Mahal Ko hosts Connie Angeles-Ganuelas, Boots Anson-Roa, Rosa Rosal, Toni Rose Gayda, Nonoy Zuñiga, Rosemarie Gil, Juan Flavier, Cielito del Mundo, Susan Valdez, Mildred Ortega, Rose Clores, Gina de Venecia, Maria Solis, Carlos Gomez, and Ramon Cruz. They were all gathered together at the PICC Forum 3, where a delightful feast awaited them. Packed dinners, including scrumptious fried chicken, exquisite pastas, delectable pizzas, and a wide array of refreshing beverages such as Coca-Cola, Milo, and Nestea, were thoughtfully prepared and served for their enjoyment. The atmosphere was filled with joy as everyone savored the delicious food and engaged in lively conversations.

I recall, the ABS-CBN, ABC and GMA News vans along with the ABS-CBN news gathering OB van truck were parked in CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay and SM Mall of Asia in Bay City, Pasay within the duration of the 2007 Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand from December 6 to 15, 2007.

Inquirer Lifestyle Series: Fitness.Fashion with Samsung fashion show's guest model Enchong Dee before the in the finals of men’s 100-meter butterfly and he was placed eighth in the finals with the time of 56.87 seconds during the 2007 Southeast Asian Games swimming events in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand last Sunday, December 9, 2007. Photos: Louise Gandionco-David/Multiply.com and courtesy of Bench

December 8 to 9, 2007 and December 11 to 12, 2007, During a five-day swimming competition for the 24th Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand with national swimmer and then University of California swimmer Miguel Molina and the fashion show's guest model turned Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) national athlete, Philippine Amateur Swimming Association, Inc. (PASA) member, De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Tankers, Philippine Columbian Association (PCA) Stingrays and Sun Life Financial Philippines (Sun Life) Triathlon Team member Ernest Lorenzo "Enchong" Dee, the Paolo Abrera-Marco Protacio affair and the riots at Dee residence in Barangay Horseshoe, Quezon City. A 25-hour overnight vigil was held at the Greenbelt Chapel in Makati City, on the same day, starting at 7:00 p.m. and ending at 8:00 p.m. of the same day. Dee was in the finals of the men's 100-meter butterfly last December 9 and lane 1 of the men's 200-meter butterfly finals last December 11, 2007. He was the eighth-place finisher in the said event with a time of 2 minutes, 11.47 seconds, and he lost to Filipino-American James Bernard Walsh.

A re-run of the August 21, 1983 assassination of former senator Benigno Aquino, Jr. aired by GMA Network. (In 1983, Channel 7 was the first to break the news of Ninoy Aquino's death, and later would be the only television station to broadcast his funeral.)

The video conversation starts with the sound of the plane landing and people talking among themselves.

• “Everybody remains on board,” one of them says.

Moments later, a single gunshot rings out and women are wailing.

• “What happened? What was that?” a woman’s voice asks.
• More gunshots. The wailing becomes louder.
• Then an order from several men: “Inside, inside, inside!”
• “The soldiers… shot Ninoy. He’s dead out there,” a woman cries out.

Burton’s tape records faintly the sound of someone saying, “Eto na (This is it).” Footage shot by a foreign TV crew captures the words now familiar to Filipinos who lived through the events surrounding the Aquino assassination. “Eto na, eto na! Ako na, ako na! Op! Pusila, pusila (This is it, this is it! Let me let me! Shoot, shoot)!”

And then, the gunshot.

What is significant about the tape are the reactions of Aquino’s fellow passengers and the conversations Burton had with them.

Burton apparently kept recording as she discussed with fellow foreign journalists what happened.

Some eight minutes into the tape, Burton is heard saying, “It’s very confusing, I mean, I don’t know.” She then answered more questions from someone who sounded like an American.

• Man: “They shot Ninoy?”
• Woman, presumably Burton: “Yeah.”
• Man: “Where?”
• Burton: “Right at the bottom of the stairs.”
• Man: “When Ninoy was still on it or when…”
• Burton: “No, when he got off. I’m sure he’s dead.”

The tape also captures Burton and her fellow passengers after they had disembarked and ran into people waiting to meet the passengers from the China Airlines flight.

Local journalists who covered the airport at the time had been herded by military men to the entrance to the tube where they were to await Aquino. When they learned of the commotion on the tarmac, they interviewed the disembarking passengers to ask them what happened.

One conversation was that of Burton and a Filipino.

• Man: “What did you see? Who did it?”
• Burton: “Soldiers.”
• Man: “How many of them?”
• Burton: “I don’t know. I think we’d better wait.”
• Man: “Did you recognize him? Aquino?”
• Burton: “Yeah.”
• Man: “What’s your name?”
• Burton: “No, I’m not gonna… this is not the place to talk. We had just seen two assassinations take place right outside our window.”

The tape then records what sounded like Burton comparing notes with fellow foreign correspondents, everyone recalling what they heard and trying to reconstruct the moments when they listened to the shorts.

In one portion of the tape, the conversation turns to who killed Aquino, and Burton points out that a Japanese reporter had seen one of the men in khaki, referring to one of Aquino’s escorts, being the gunman.

But a man contradicts her, saying, “I did not see a man in khaki uniform shoot Aquino.” To this day, the question of who shot Aquino remains subject to debate.

Three personalities along with Samson, Reyes, Claparols, and Eala stayed in the same place for the said event for fifteen days between December 6 to 15, 2007, followed by her father former Philippine Senator Rene Cayetano's 73rd birthday celebration on December 12, 2007, and the welcome the new millennium 2008 between December 31, 2007, and January 1, 2008.

December 12, 2007, one of Enchanted Kingdom's attractions, the Space Shuttle roller coaster, stalled between the tracks, where school children from Bulacan, Laguna, and Batangas were included.

December 19, 2007, four days after the closing ceremony of the 24th Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, when movie and television personality, college student, national athlete and swimmer Ernest Lorenzo Dee also known as Enchong Dee who arrived at Rigodon Ballroom of the Peninsula Manila in Makati City for a hero's welcome and press conference after the flight from Bangkok to Manila and he is talking to ultra bilyonaryo Manuel V. Pangilinan on the success of team Philippines at the 24th Southeast Asian Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand last December 6 to 15, 2007. Mister Dee is 19 years old from Naga City, residing in Barangay Horseshoe, Quezon City and studying in De La Salle University in Manila, he would like to have a chance to meet with Pangilinan and Zobel de Ayala brothers along with the executives of STAR Magic, led by head Johnny Manahan and senior vice president Mariole Alberto, handler Monch Novales and Sun Life Financial Philippines, led by president and chief executive officer Henry Joseph Herrera. Spotted in the press conference were ABS-CBN news reporters Migs Bustos, Dyan Castillejo, Mario Dumawal, Gretchen Fullido and TJ Manotoc and ABS-CBN Sports personalities Martin Javier and Mikee Reyes, De La Salle University (DLSU) Green Tankers coach Professor Rene "Guy" Concepcion, former national swimmer Eric Buhain, Philippine Amateur Swimming Association president Mark Joseph.

Makalipas na walong taon, kamusta pa ba ang aktor at dating pambansang atleta na si Enchong Dee pagkatapos ng 2007 SEA Games swimming competition sa Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand noong ika-7 hanggang ika-11 ng Disyembre 2007, 2008 UAAP swimming championships sa Trace Aquatic Center sa Los Banos, Laguna noong Setyembre 25 hanggang 28, 2008, 2008 ASEAN University Games sa Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia noong ika-11 hanggang ika-21 ng Disyembre 2008 at 2009 UAAP swimming championships sa Trace Aquatic Center sa Los Banos, Laguna noong Setyembre 24 hanggang 27, 2009, siya ay naging contestant sa reality show na Pinoy Big Brother na may edisyon na "737" noong Hunyo 2015 at host ng reality show na Pinoy Big Brother na may edisyon na "Connect" noong Disyembre 2020, "Kumunity Season 10" noong Oktubre 2021, "Gen 11" noong Hulyo 2024 at "Celebrity Collab Edition" noong Marso 2025. 

(Eight years later, how is actor and former national athlete Enchong Dee after the 2007 SEA Games swimming competition in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand on December 7 to 11, 2007, 2008 UAAP swimming championships on September 25 to 28, 2008, 2008 ASEAN University Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on December 11 to 21, 2008 and 2009 UAAP swimming championships at the Trace Aquatic Center in Los Banos, Laguna on September 24 to 27, 2009, he became a contestant on the reality show Pinoy Big Brother with the "737" edition in June 2015 and host of the reality show Pinoy Big Brother with "Connect" in December 2020, "Kumunity Season 10" in October 2021, "Gen 11" in July 2024 and "Celebrity Collab Edition" in March 2025.)

“Unbelievable” is the reply of actor and former UAAP athlete Enchong Dee when asked how he was able to divide his time between his showbiz career, his training, and his studies at DLSU.

It was not easy. There were days that Dee would go without sleep, from taping to the pool just to train. From there, he would go straight to class. But all the hard work paid off in 2007, 2008, and 2009 when he picked up three consecutive MVP awards. In 2009, the 20-year-old actor was honored by the La Salle community for bagging his third MVP trophy and seven gold medals—in the 1,500-meter and 800-meter freestyle, 400-meter and 200-meter individual medley, 200-meter, 100-meter and 50-meter butterfly—thereby powering the DLSU men’s swimming team to it’s first title since 2002.

It was unbelievable, but not impossible. Dee thinks the biggest factor in his success was his ability to manage his time. “I would ask permission from my professors, coaches, and directors,” he says. “I always believe that to have a proper approach to something, it’s important to keep communication lines open. Be straight to the point, but make sure nothing is compromised.”

He misses being part of the UAAP, especially now that he is no longer actively training. Dee is now exclusively devoted to his showbiz career. His latest movie, I Do, in which he starred opposite Erich Gonzales, did well at the box office, and he has several projects lined up. “I miss it [UAAP], especially the preparation,” he says. “I would train with my teammates every morning before going to class. It’s fulfilling when I look back and realize how hard we worked, and how harmonious we moved as a group.”

The win was also memorable because he would see kids look up to him and say they wanted to be like him one day. For Dee, being in a position to inspire other people was one of the best things about being part of the UAAP.

The values he learned in competition—“discipline towards work, perseverance toward a goal, teamwork among my co-workers, working hard and having passion for what I do”—are values that will serve him even now that he is, as they say, “out of the water”.

Epilogue

"In my proposed diary regarding my re-enactment of episode 3, part 3, sequence 1 of Your Song presents Boystown, shot on location at the Olympic-size swimming pool of Makati Aqua Sports Arena, without Coach Daniel portrayed by Romnick Sarmienta, as a solo artist along with my sister Maria Angelika "Anj" Dee, 2010 UAAP Swimming Championships Girls Division MVP Sabrina Ingrid Ilustre, 2022 UAAP Swimming Championships Women's Division MVP Xiandi Chua, 2009 UAAP Swimming Championships Men's Division Rookie of the Year and 2013 UAAP Swimming Championships Men's Division MVP Johansen Benedict "Johan" Aguilar, Joshua Desamero and Adrian Thomas Dionisio, I am the youngest swimmer from Naga, Camarines Sur, turned professional movie and television actor and comedian, dancer, TV commercial, print and ramp model, singer and songwriter, and a student of De La Salle University, Manila campus."

For the 20-year-old Enchong Dee, playing Arnel in the ABS-CBN’s Sunday mid-afternoon drama mini-series, Your Song presents “Boystown”, is seated, using Cofta Ruby 1 Monoblock – Plain White and a starter pack for his hair styling includes Bench Fix Hair Gel, Normal Hold 135g and Bench Fix Hair Wax in Rock Steady 80g, it wears Arena ARN-6015 DGRN Rimic Nux-F, size M and holding Arena AGL-1400 EMBL swimming glass (mirror Swedish type), he does a hair styling and portrait session with hair & makeup artist Nilo Cruz before proceeding to the climb at the swimming block, where he is adjusting the Arena AGL-1400 EMBL swimming glass (mirror Swedish type) to do a men’s 400-meter individual medley, men’s 200-meter butterfly, men’s 100-meter butterfly, men’s 50-meter butterfly, men’s 200-meter individual medley, men’s 800-meter freestyle and men’s 1,500-meter freestyle then Enchong Dee as Arnel was in lane 4 wearing Arena ARN-6015 DGRN Rimic Nux-F, size M and adjusting his Arena AGL-1400 EMBL swimming glass (mirror Swedish type) and his sister Anj Dee is in lane 3 wearing Speedo Fastskin FS-Pro Recordbreaker Costume, Female – Black (8-008153218) and adjusting her Speedo Speedsocket Mirror Goggle - Black (8-705893515) to do a men’s and women’s 400-meter individual medley, men’s and women’s 200-meter butterfly, men’s and women’s 100-meter butterfly, men’s and women’s 50-meter butterfly, men’s and women’s 200-meter individual medley, men’s and women’s 800-meter freestyle and men’s and women’s 1,500-meter freestyle, Enchong Dee as Arnel was in lane 4 wearing Arena ARN-6015 DGRN Rimic Nux-F, size M and adjusting his Arena AGL-1400 EMBL swimming glass (mirror Swedish type) and Johan Aguilar is in lane 5 wearing Agonswim University Athletic Association, University of Florida Mesh Training Suit Fully Front and Back Lined (ACX111510TRS2MES) and adjusting his Speedo Speedsocket Mirror Goggle – Black (8-705893515) to do a men’s 400-meter individual medley, men’s 200-meter butterfly, men’s 100-meter butterfly, men’s 50-meter butterfly, men’s 200-meter individual medley, men’s 800-meter freestyle and men’s 1,500-meter freestyle when Arnel will training with us, before warm-up, to watch a one-on-one game, photo by Ronnie Salvacion, styling by Bang Pineda, makeup by Renato Lu, shot on location at the 50-meter Olympic-size swimming pool of Makati Aqua Sports Arena.

P.S. Big thanks to Dimo for lending his underwater housing!

It uses the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K, Canon EOS C100 Mark II with Dual Pixel CMOS AF & EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM Zoom Lens Kit, Ewa-Marine Underwater Housing for Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 4K, and Ewa-Marine V102 Underwater Housing for Canon EOS C100 or C100 Mark II.

"Me, as Arnel in Your Song presents Boystown was in lane 4 and doing solo, when I was wearing Arena ARN-6015 DGRN Rimic Nux-F, size M to do a men's 400-meter individual medley, men's 200-meter individual medley, men's 100-meter butterfly, men's 800-meter freestyle, men's 1,500-meter freestyle and men's 200-meter butterfly despite my re-enactment of episode 3, part 3, sequence 1 when Arnel with train with the Santillan Sharks before warming-up to watch a one-on-one game."

"And my sister Maria Angelika "Anj" Dee was in lane 3 and wearing the Speedo Fastskin FS-Pro Recordbreaker Costume, Female – Black (8-008153218), size M, label 34" to do a women's 400-meter individual medley, women's 200-meter individual medley, women's 100-meter butterfly, women's 800-meter freestyle, women's 1,500-meter freestyle and women's 200-meter butterfly."

Then me in lane 4 and is wearing Arena ARN-6015 DGRN Rimic Nux-F, size M and sister Maria Angelika "Anj" Dee was in lane 3 and wearing the Speedo Fastskin FS-Pro Recordbreaker Costume, Female – Black (8-008153218), size M, label 34 to do a men's and women's 400-meter individual medley, men's and women's 200-meter individual medley, men's and women's 100-meter butterfly, men's and women's 800-meter freestyle, men's and women's 1,500-meter freestyle and men's and women's 200-meter butterfly.

Me as Arnel was in lane 4 wearing Arena ARN-6015 DGRN Rimic Nux-F, size M and adjusting his Arena AGL-1400 EMBL swimming glass (mirror Swedish type) and 2009 UAAP Swimming Championships Men's Division Rookie of the Year and 2013 UAAP Swimming Championships Men's Division MVP Johansen Benedict "Johan" Aguilar is in lane 5 wearing Agonswim University Athletic Association, University of Florida Mesh Training Suit Fully Front and Back Lined (ACX111510TRS2MES), size 32 and adjusting his Speedo Speedsocket Mirror Goggle - Black (8-705893515), I was re-enacting the bod photos before doing re-enactment of episode 3, part 3, sequence 1 to do a men's 400-meter individual medley, men's 200-meter individual medley, men's 100-meter butterfly, men's 800-meter freestyle, men's 1,500-meter freestyle and men's 200-meter butterfly.

"There is no turning back. #sexyback"

Then 2009 UAAP Swimming Championships Men's Division Rookie of the Year and 2013 UAAP Swimming Championships Men's Division MVP Johansen Benedict "Johan" Aguilar is in lane 5 wearing Agonswim University Athletic Association, University of Florida Mesh Training Suit Fully Front and Back Lined (ACX111510TRS2MES), size 32 and adjusting his Speedo Speedsocket Mirror Goggle - Black (8-705893515) to do a men's 200-meter backstroke, men's 400-meter individual medley, men's 200-meter individual medley, men's 400-meter freestyle, men's 100-meter butterfly, men's 800-meter freestyle, men's 1,500-meter freestyle, men's 200-meter freestyle and men's 200-meter butterfly.

And my sister, Maria Angelika "Anj" Dee, Monique "Nikki" Bacolod, 2010 UAAP Swimming Championships Girls Division MVP Sabrina Ingrid Ilustre and 2022 UAAP Swimming Championships Women's Division MVP Xiandi Chua they wearing Speedo Fastskin FS-Pro Recordbreaker Costume, Female – Black (8-008153218), size M, label 34.

Yours truly and Adrian Thomas Dionisio are wearing Arena ARN-6015 DGRN Rimic Nux-F, size M, along with Johansen Benedict "Johan" Aguilar, Fahad Alkhaldi and Gerard Daniel "Berber" Berino wearing Speedo Fastskin FS-Pro Legskin, Male – Black (8-008083218) and Mike Advincula, McTracy Alindogan, Roby Almajose, Donn Almera, Miguel Blaise Ampil, Alfonso Bautista, Nicolo Bengzon, Benedict Campos, Martin Carandang, Skyler Claveria, Hans Mikael Cruz, Jules Danting, Joshua Desamero, Charles Diu, Jake Du, Troy Espiritu, Juan Rodrigo "Jigs" Fonseca, Jason Paul Gaviola, Giles Joshua Go, Joseph Anthony Go, Yuri Ilustre, Earl Jay Jayme, Jarvin Li, Marc Libarnes, Elijah Lizares, Christopher Marzel Llorente, Christopher William Manalo, Zach Maranon, Matthew Marzan, Owen Mendoza, Carlo Millan, Kyle Paggabao, Miguel Peñafiel, Chris Pinto, Mikki Quilala, Rob Real, Jr., Marvin Aldrich Relucio, Louie Angelo Ricafrente, Rainier Lloyd Salonga, Eduardo Santos, Jomai Santos, Christian Sy, Jaren Rylie Tan, Gamaiel Torres, Kevin Christopher Ty, Benjie Uy, Timothy Vincent Yap, Benzi Yang and Huxley Yu are wearing Arena ARN-6014 DGRN Half Spats Nux-F and taking off their 2011 Nike exclusive De La Salle Dri-Fit tee (green/white) when they goes shirtless.

Me, along with team captain Mike Advincula, McTracy Alindogan, Roby Almajose, Donn Almera, Miguel Blaise Ampil, Alfonso Bautista, Nicolo Bengzon, Benedict Campos, Martin Carandang, Skyler Claveria, Hans Mikael Cruz, Jules Raphael Danting, Charles Gerson Diu, Jake Du, Troy Jordan Espiritu, Jigs Fonseca, Jason Gaviola, Giles Joshua Go, Joseph Anthony Go, Yuri Ilustre, Earl Jay Jayme, Jarvin Li, Marc Libarnes, Elijah Lizares, Christopher Marzel Llorente, Christopher William Manalo, Zach Maranon, Matthew Marzan, Owen Mendoza, Carlo Millan, Kyle Paggabao, Miguel Peñafiel, Chris Pinto, Mikki Quilala, Rob Real, Jr., Marvin Aldrich Relucio, Louie Angelo Ricafrente, Rainier Salonga, Eduardo Santos, Jomai Santos, Christian Sy, Jaren Rylie Tan, Gamaiel Torres, Kevin Christopher Ty, Benjie Uy, Benzi Yang and Huxley Yu are wearing Arena ARN-6014 DGRN Half Spats Nux-F, size M and taking off their 2011 Nike exclusive De La Salle Dri-Fit tee (green/white) when they goes shirtless, along with my sister Maria Angelica "Anj" Dee, along with Ace Agustin, Lyca Agustin, Tessa Alcantara, Thea Alcantara, Lynette Ang, Lorraine Angkico, Clarisse Andrea Bacani, Nikki Bacolod, Apple Berenguer, Charlene Alexis Cebedo, Mariel Andrea Carandang, Sarah Castañeda, Xiandi Chua, Lia Trisha Co, Jas de Guzman, Jia De Guzman, EA Delos Santos, Nichole Evangelista, Faith Fernandez, Katerina Flores, Berny Galang, Jhianna Gonzales, Cana Guanio, Sabrina Ingrid Ilustre, Angelie Jalauig, Carla Jaurigue, Bea Jison, Jana Laurian, Heish Lavina, Anezhka Lim, Ruth Antoinette Manlongat, Maggie Mendoza, Sam Moises, Diana Ongpin, Nikki Pamintuan, Aya Panganiban, Izzah Pesigan, Ayee Quilala, Vanessa Raymundo, Aria Sahagun, Cass Salandanan, Hanna Sanchez, Janina Nicole Sedilla, Mari So, Mikka Sy, Mikee Tablada, Trixcee Tan, Betina Ting, Kaira Celina Ty, Chloe Ekaterina Uy, Jed Villareal, Erika Visitacion, Bea Yllen and Meleah Zalamea are wearing Arena ARN-6012W DGRN Rimic Nux-F and Johan Aguilar, Fahad Alkhaldi, Pierce Beltran, Skyler Claveria, Joshua Desamero, Jheg Gonzales, Brian Padua, Kelles Que, Alberto Racelis, Roch Santos, Kenley Wong and Sage Yabut are wearing Speedo Fastskin FS-Pro Jammer, Male – Black (8-008093218), shot on location at the swimming pool of Trace Aquatic Center in Los Banos, Laguna.

Swimmers shine again, but RP is still 5th overall

By Ernesto Gonzales

Published on page A29 in the December 12, 2007 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer

NAKHON RATCHASIMA--Parading another star in Filipino-American James Walsh, swimming matched the two-gold effort by cycling as the Philippines finished with seven victories Tuesday that did little to get the defending overall champion Philippines out of its fifth-place hole in the 24th Southeast Asian Games here.

Walsh smashed the six-year-old SEAG record in ruling the men's 200-meter butterfly, then combined with Miguel Molina, Ryan Arabejo, and new RP swim sensation Daniel Coakley to secure the sport's final gold in the men's 4x100-meter medley relay. That capped the Filipinos' eight victories overall.

Former bikathon king Victor Espiritu finally crashed the winners' circle for the first time in three SEAGs by topping the men's 40-kilometer points’ race late Monday and defending champion Alfie Catalan kept his 4-km individual pursuit title.

Felicisimo Nierras Jr. salvaged gold for athletics in the men's 400 meters, Amaya Paz retained her women's compound individual title in archery and the men's epee squad scored anew as the Filipinos boosted their golden harvest to 29 with four days of competition left.

But the Filipinos stayed two golds behind Malaysia which captured a pair of golds at the start of the final swim program to keep fourth place. Indonesia was sixth with 25 victories.

As of 8:30 p.m. here (9:30 p.m. in Manila), the Thais moved closer to their overall target of 120 victories with 97 gold medals. Vietnam was in second with 46, followed by Singapore with 37.

Walsh shattered by 1.39 seconds the SEAG record of 2:01.84, set by Malaysia's Anthony Ang in September 2001 in Kuala Lumpur.

Donny Utomo of Indonesia won silver (2:00.81) and Daniel Bego of Malaysia won bronze (2:03.97).

Ernest Lorenzo Dee (8th, 2:11.47) also failed in the finals of the men's 200-meter butterfly.

Molina's individual winning streak earlier ended at three as he settled for the bronze in the men's 200 freestyle. But he was a winner when he plunged into action for the last time as the swimmer of the breaststroke leg.

Molina finished with one more victory than his golden output in 2005 to become the most successful RP campaigner so far.

Ryan Arabejo, the 200 backstroke and 1,500 freestyle winners, took care of the backstroke. Walsh swam the butterfly, and 50m freestyle champion Coakley finished off the relay in style.

Boxing, now under pressure to deliver and help avoid an embarrassing finish for the Filipinos, placed three more fighters in the finals for a total of 13.

Experts, however, feel the Filipinos need no less than knockout wins against their Thai foes in the gold medal round starting Wednesday to avoid the infamous hometown decision here.

Bantamweight Junel Cantancio, lightweight Joegen Ladon, and light heavyweight Maximino Tabangcora completed the cast of RP finalists after light fly Albert Pabila was eliminated by Thai Amnat Ruenroeng, 18-8.

The other gold medal hopefuls are flyweight Godfrey Castro, light welter Jerry Semillano, featherweight Orlando Tacuyan, middleweight Junie Tizon, and female fighters Annie Albania, Alice Kate Aparri, Jouvilet Chilem, Annaliza Cruz, Mitchelle Martinez, and Ronijen Sofla.

There were mixed results in golf with the women's team, led by Anya Tanpinco, taking a two-stroke lead over Thailand after the first round of the 54-hole competition, 143-145.

But the Putra Cup champion Thais bounced back in the men's division, opening a six-shot edge over Indonesia, 422-428, even as the Filipinos, who led on the first day, tumbled down to fourth at 429 with Anthony Fernando adding a 77 to the 71 of Mark Fernando and the 72 of Ferdinand Aunzo.

Nierras, whose father was a former national standout in the jumping events, succeeded teammate Jimar Aing as 400 champions with a time of 46.56. Ernie Candelario, the winner in Vietnam in December 2003, slumped to sixth in 48.09.

That win gave the athletics team its poorest output of four in three SEAGs. The squad came up with eight golds in Vietnam and nine in 2005 back home.

Paz beat Indonesian Dellie Threesyadinda for the gold, 116-114, while the epee squad won with a team featuring Almario Vizcayno, who took over the old slot of actor Richard Gomez, Armando Bernal, Wilfredo Vizcayno Jr., and Avelino Victorino.

But the fencing squads in foil and saber ended up with silvers.

Also settling for the silver was Earl Benjamin Yap in the men's compound individual in archery, pole-vaulter Deborah Samson, and weightlifting's Renante Briones in the 94 kg.

Make way for new RP gold machine

By Musong R. Castillo

Published on page A30 in the December 12, 2007 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer

Nakhon Ratchasima-Step aside wushu, move over athletics.

Swimming became the new gold medal machine  of the Philippine contingent when Miguel Molina and his male buddies rewarded the country with eight victories as the curtains fell on the sport Tuesday, December 11 in the 24th Southeast Asian Games here.

After winning four golds back home in the 2005 Games, the swimmers doubled that output here with 23-year-old Molina churning his way to four victories-three in the individual events and one in the relay - to cap his most successful stint in the three editions of the biennial event.

Now with nine overall wins since Vietnam Southeast Asian Games in 2003, the United States-based Molina is thinking of retiring from the sport with his young teammates here assuring him of their own gold-winning ways.

All in their teens, Ryan Arabejo, Daniel Coakley and J.B. Walsh accounted for four gold medals among themselves with the 18-year-old Arabejo striking for two in the 200-meter backstroke and the 1,500-meter freestyle.

Swiftest swimmer

Walsh delivered in the 200 butterfly, while Coakley, two days short of turning 18, crowned himself as the swiftest swimmer of them all by ruling the 50-meter freestyle and breaking the SEAG and national records with his time of 22.8 seconds. That time also qualified him for the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Together with Molina, the three picked up another gold in the 4 x 100 medley relay with a time of 3:49.28.

Old 200 freestyle rival

Molina earlier prevailed in the 400 and 200 individual medley and the 200 breaststroke, the same event when he captured two years ago. His win in the relay came after he had settled for third in the 200 freestyle won by his old rival Malaysian Daniel Bego.

"I just wanted to keep it close (in the breaststroke leg) knowing that Walsh and Coakley were unbeatable," said Molina of his strategy in the medley relay.

Walsh, 19, clocked 2:00.45 as he bounced back from a narrow lose to Indonesian Donny Utomo the last around.

Naturalized swimmers

Singapore, with the help of naturalized swimmers from China, emerged overall champion with 11 gold, but Philippines' eight was a big boost as it easily surpassed athletics' five-gold haul and wushu's two golds.

In the 2005 Manila Southeast Asian Games, wushu garnered 11 golds and athletics nine.

The Harbour Center-Philippine team shoots for its third straight win against Malaysia while the embattled lady dribblers go up against their Malaysian counterparts Wednesday.