MMDA launches 2014 MMFFP

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Francis Tolentino recently launched the 2014 Metropolitan Manila Film Festival Philippines (MMFFP), expressing much optimism that it will surpass last year’s more than P900-million gross income.

“I am inviting again all the local producers, directors and independent filmmakers to participate, with deeply entertaining and high quality movies we can all be proud of,” Tolentino announced. The deadline for submission of entries for the mainstream category is on June 14.

This year marks MMFFP’s 40th year, and Tolentino said it is his last participation as festival chairman.

“I am going back to my home city, Tagaytay, next year to reassume my position as mayor,” he also announced, with a touch of sadness. “And I thank you all for having worked with me in the MMFFP.”

He also called out those who have criticized him and said that there’s no rancor in his heart. “What is important is that we are all united in pushing through with the MMFFP, whoever will be the next MMDA chairman. Let’s make MMFFP even more glittering and more successful.”

Since he held the chairmanship of the MMFFP, the festival consistently achieved an increase in gross income. The MMFFP has several beneficiaries, like the Film Academy of the Philippines, the Mowelfund, the Optical Media Board, and the Film Development Council, among others.

Tolentino also announced that an archive and library building will be constructed within the compound of the MMDA office in Makati, to house all the films entered in the MMFF. It will include a mini-theater, a schoolroom for film students and more.



• • •

Talent Search Continues In SM

“Dreams Get Real,” a talent search organized by McJim Classic Leather, continues its series of weekly eliminations this March in various SM Supermalls in Metro Manila, Southern Luzon, and Central Luzon.

After its media launch on March 2 at SM Las Piñas, the weekly elimination was held last Sunday, March 16, at SM City Clark. The next eliminations will be held at SM City Calamba on March 23, and at SM Manila on March 30.

At the media launch, the crowd and media guests were entertained by rapper Geo Ong, the boy band 1:43 and Kimpoy. The last two also performed at SM City Clark on Sunday.

1:43, which counts as members Anjo Resurreccion, Argee Golding, Gold Aquino and Yuki Sakamoto, won the hearts of netizens when they released “Sa Isang Sulyap Mo.” The track won Song of the Year at the 5th PMPC Star Awards for Music.

The group’s new single, “Hayop Sa Ganda,” is now a certified radio hit. Composed by the group’s road manager Urie Tesorio, the song pays tribute to the “incomparable pulchritude of Filipino transgender women.”

Its music video features Vice Ganda’s prominent sidekick Negi and Miss Tourism Queen International 2012 Kevin Balot.

Just days after a teaser video showing images of some gorgeous Filipino transgender women was uploaded on YouTube, “Hayop Sa Ganda” garnered thousands of views and received positive feedback from the gay community.

“Hayop Sa Ganda” was recently named “Most Wanted Song of the Week” by 97.1 Barangay LS, as it landed on the station’s “The Big Ten.”

“I had a good feeling about 1:43’s latest single. I am confident that it’s going to be my boy band’s next big hit, probably even surpassing the success of ‘Sa Isang Sulyap Mo,’“ said manager Chris Cahilig, who is also project head of “Dreams Get Real.”

The grand champ of “Dreams Get Real” will receive a cash prize worth P50,000, a recording and management contract, and a grant to record a single and release a music video.



• • •

GMANetwork.com Wins At Digital Filipino Web Awards 2014

GMANetwork.com was recently awarded best website in the Television category of the 6th Digital Filipino Web Awards.

Described as one of the most comprehensive local media portal, GMANetwork.com integrates the news, entertainment and other websites of GMA Network.

Last year, GMANetwork.com introduced new and enhanced features on the site, namely, infinite scrolling, responsive web design, and drag-to-share functionality. These allow users to access, view and share GMA content in an easier, faster and convenient manner.

The award was received by Butch San Agustin, AVP digital media and Leda Beltran, online content director.



• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 18, go to former President Fidel V. Ramos, Celeste Legaspi, Jeric Teng of Rain or Shine Elasto Painters, Christine Michelle C. Freeman, Lara Chica, Diana Go, US-based Baby K. Jimenez and Eden Yap Dandan, Jose Antonio Miguel B. Recio, Astara Aguilar of Canada, Jojo Lim, Fidela Gabayno, Edgar Cartera, Patricia del Rosario-Bata, Mrs. Erlinda A. Sabido, Wilfredo M. Gerilla, and Gian Sotto of Star Magic… Happy wedding anniversary to Kiel and Nini Enrique…

ABS-CBN Sports and Action Programs

News+ Primetime Edition

johansen aguilar

DOJ panel laban kay Arnel Pineda bubuuin

Balak ng Department of Justice na bumuo ng panel of prosecutors na didinig sa anumang reklamo na maaring isampa ng National Historical Institute laban kay “Journey” lead singer Arnel Pineda dahil sa umano’y pagbago sa rendition ng “Lupang Hinirang” sa laban ni world boxing champion Manny Pacquiao kamakalawa.

Ayon kay acting Justice Secretary Alberto Agra, kailangan muna niyang matanggap ang formal complaint ng NHI bago sila magbigay ng komento sa usapin.

Inamin din ng kalihim na hindi pa niya personal na naririnig ang sinasabing maling pag-awit ng international singer kaya mahirap para sa kaniyang maglabas ng anumang opinyon.

Nilinaw naman ng NHI na wala pa silang isinasampang kaso laban kay Pineda.

Ayon kay Prof. Teddy Atienza, hepe ng heraldy section ng NHI, nangangalap pa lamang sila ng mga video sa pag-awit ni Pineda ng Lupang Hinirang.

Pagkatapos umano nito ay saka nila isusumite ang report sa NHI board na siyang magdedetermina kung kakasuhan si Pineda at saka ito iaakyat sa DOJ.

Gayunman, ayon kay Atienza, nakahanda naman silang patawarin si Pineda sakaling humingi ito ng tawad ngunit sa kondisyon na tutulong ito sa kampanya ng NHI na maituro sa publiko ang tamang pag-awit ng ating Pambansang Awit.

http://www.philstar.com/bansa/558149/doj-panel-laban-kay-arnel-pineda-bubuuin

Studio 23 goes off the air; ABS-CBN launches new sports channel

Matapos ang labing-anim na taon sa TV industry, tuluyan nang magpapaalam sa ere ngayong araw, January 17, ang Studio 23.

Papalitan ito ng ABS-CBN Sports + Action simula bukas, January 18.

Ang Studio 23 ang UHF channel ng ABS-CBN. Inilunsad ito noong October 12, 1996.

Simula naman Sabado, ang ABS-CBN Sports + Action na ang free-TV sports channel ng Kapamilya network.

Kuwento ni March Ventoza, head ng Narrowcast group ng ABS-CBN, “Well, we started developing the concept almost a year… it took us almost a year to figure it out really well.

"And then we decided to launch it now… in January. So, our first broadcast will be on Saturday, January 18."

Nakausap ng PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) si Ventoza sa launching ng bagong shows ng ABS-CBN Sports + Action kahapon, January 16, sa T.G.I. Friday’s, Glorietta 3, Makati.

Inusisa ng PEP kung bakit hindi nila ni-retain ang pangalang Studio 23.

Paliwanag niya, “Well, Studio 23 is a strong brand that’s associated more with entertainment than with sports.

“In the old programming grid, Studio 23… we only had about… the reverse, e, siguro 30 percent sports lang.

"This time around, we're shifting the other way, and really to put a stamp of our commitment... we're here to put the ABS-CBN name now forward."

FULL-SPORTS CHANNEL. Mula sa pagiging alternative station pagdating sa entertainment, magiging full-sports channel na ang bagong bihis na network.

Saad ni Ventoza, “I think our commitment to sports has always been there, that is very clear.

"We decided on a full sports channel when we figured that there’s a lot more to present to the audience.


“Medyo, sa totoo lang, if you look back siguro… mga eight, ten years, medyo manipis ang offering e.

"True enough, siyempre ang PBA [Philippine Basketball Association], di ba?

"And then we were able to build UAAP [University Athletic Association of the Philippines].

“Now that we’ve been able to prove that and also prove it with the Azkals, we now believe that it is time for us to continue with that development.”

Dagdag pa niya, “To date, I think we can confidently say, we have three success stories.

"The UAAP, which includes basketball, volleyball.

“The Philippine Azkals and the popularity of football, which started with our airing of the World Cup and then with the Azkals.

"And finally, boxing, with the ALA Boxing, developing the grassroots, and then, of course, promoting Nonito Donaire’s fights.”

May 20 percent daw naman na entertainment ang istasyon at 10 percent news.

Kabilang sa mga ito ay ang pagpapalabas ng mga pelikula ng yumaong King of Philippine Movies na si Fernando Poe, Jr. via FPJ: Hari ng Aksyon; sports show ni TJ Manotoc na The Score; at ang News+ (News Plus) ni Anthony Taberna.

Sasamahan si Anthony ng sexy star na si Jef Gaitan para naman sa entertainment news.

The real Annabelle Rama unveiled

She may be notorious for speaking her mind regardless of the consequences, but Annabelle Rama is a loyal friend. Be good to her and she will always stand by you no matter what. And she is generous to boot.

I’ve known Annabelle for a long time (I would always visit her whenever I went to California back when they were still based there). I can vouch for her being a hardworking and protective mother. She is also a very loving wife.

I know she and Eddie Gutierrez went through a lot in their married life, but Annabelle’s love never faltered, even when Eddie’s eyes would wander.

All of the Gutierrezes, including, Eddie, Annabelle, Ruffa, twins Richard and Raymond, Rocky, Elvis and Richie Paul, will be featured in the reality show, “It Takes Gutz To Be A Gutierrez” on E! Channel no less.

“I’m so happy, I’m so proud. Hindi ko in-expect na mapapansin ang beauty ko sa international channel na E! Dreams really come true,” Annabelle said during a recent chat.

She added, “I’m so proud of my children, and especially my husband, they all speak English. Ako Taglish na lang. I’m sure na first time sa isang reality show na may subtitles. Sabi ni Ruffa, ‘Ma, speak in English;’ she gets mad at me all the time. Sabi ko, ‘Kaya nga reality show, kayo magaling kayo mag-English. Hayaan mo na lang ako sa Taglish.’”

Richard said, “The show is the first in Asia. It’s such an honor for the whole family. And it’s going to be one great adventure na dapat ninyong abangan…”

From Raymond, “We are all very excited. We’ve been offered to do reality shows long before but we can’t because some of us have contracts. But now that we are freelance artists, we can actually do something like this. Thank God, after months of negotiations and secret meetings we can finally announce the project. Being active on social media, I’ve been dying to announce it. It was so hard for me to contain the excitement…”

He added: “We all grew up watching E! Channel in the States and when we learned we’re going to have E! here in Asia and in the Philippines, parang bumalik ’yung childhood ko, when we were still in LA. Just to be part of the network is already an honor. And to be the first to do it made us really very happy…”

On her part, Ruffa shared, “A lot has been said about the Gutierrez family, but at the end of the day, we are a happy family. It’s just that we are all in show business so people say a lot of things about us. This program will show who we really are and you’ll get to know us better. Ang maganda kasi dito, we are part of the creative team, so we are not only starring in it, we are also producing it as well. Whatever you see is what you get and that we will be real at all times, because that is what a reality show is all about…”

“It Takes Gutz To Be A Gutierrez,” produced by One Mega Group’s TV100 and directed by Michael Carandang, will be aired on E! SkyCable ch. 57, Cignal ch. 25 and Cablelink ch. 33.



• • •

House Of Acting Opens

Talent manager and producer Manny Valera now has his own school of acting called the DMV House of Acting & Performing Arts (DMV HAPA).

It was inaugurated last March 2, with award-winning actress Alessandra de Rossi, Janella Salvador and Regal Films matriarch Mother Lily Monteverde cutting the ceremonial ribbon.

Other guests were Polo Ravales, Jennica Garcia, Alex Medina, Neri Naig, Chito Miranda, Kerbie Zamora, Ced Torrecarion, Althea Vega, Nap Gutierrez, directors Ricky Davao, Gil Portes and Mel Chionglo, among many others.

“This is a dream project come true for me,” Manny said. “I feel blessed that DMV House of Acting & Performing Arts is finally open for enrollment. I look forward with excitement to incoming enrollees, young and old. Surely, they will discover and develop their talents in acting, dancing, singing, painting and many more. Thank you all for supporting and encouraging my passion. Mabuhay!”

The DMV HAPA studio is located at No. 5 Sct. Magbanua corner Roces Ave., Quezon City (near Amoranto Stadium).

DMV HAPA will formally open on April 2. It offers classes in acting, film production, modern dance (juniors and adults), Zumba (kids and adults), hip hop (kids and adults), ballroom, ballet, piano, voice, painting, taekwondo, guitar and violin.

DMV HAPA’s faculty of teachers include film directors Lore Reyes and Joel Lamangan, Queen of Dance Geleen Eugenio, Lyn Tamayo, actor-painter Mike Austria and more.

For inquiries, email dmv_hapa@yahoo.com.ph.

• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 14, go to Louie Reyes, Paolo Contis, Dindi Gallardo, Remy Aquino, Marilen Nolasco-Espiritu, Linda Buenviaje, Carmelita Salvador, Elenita Bolipata, Jhing de Leon, Pinky Amador, Angela Medina, Louie Checa Montemar, Javi Cojuangco, Jomer Ramos, Angelo Gabriel “Gabe” M. Pizarro, and Percy Lapid… Happy wedding anniversary to Lito and Ligaya Fernandez and Carlo and Mina Martinez of GMA, Cavite…

TOYM awardee advances PLDT Gabay Guro advocacy

June Cheryl Cabal-Revilla, Chaye to friends and associates, PLDT’s comptroller and first Vice President, has won the TOYM award under the Community Service category for leading PLDT’s Gabay Guro.

Chaye and her team of volunteers want to make sure that the teachers are looked after, believing that education is key to poverty alleviation and national development. “We have been doing PLDT Gabay Guro to try and give back by changing the lives of those who changed ours in God’s grace,” Chaye said.

Apart from providing scholarships and training, PLDT Gabay Guro’s thrust now includes providing livelihood, broadbanding/computerization and housing/education facilities.

They paid tribute to teachers recently at the Mall of Asia Arena via “Pahalipay,” inviting such stars as Cesar Montano, Robin Padilla, Derek Ramsay and Anne Curtis, to cheer up the teachers, particularly those affected by super-typhoon “Yolanda.”

The group also turned over classrooms in Tagbilaran, Loay and Cortes, less than two months after the calamities. “They were all ready for use – complete with blackboards, chairs, electric fans and classroom supplies,” Chaye said. “These were built to withstand 250 kph storms and 7-scale earthquakes. The classrooms we built in Cebu were to withstand the earthquake in October 2013 and the winds of ‘Yolanda’ in November 2013.”

Chaye is taking cue from PLDT’s top honcho, Manny V. Pangilinan. “The weekend after the Bohol earthquake, MVP texted us to do more than just provide relief goods; he wanted us to help rebuild devastated areas in Bohol,” Chaye revealed.

She underscored the importance of teachers in times of tragedies, saying, “They are key to disaster control and recovery. When schools are used as evacuation centers, they are expected to help out in the shepherding of evacuees.”

That the teachers do all these things and yet largely remain unsung heroes moves Chaye.

Asked to paint a picture of the Pinoy teacher, she related, “A happy and fulfilled Pinoy teacher inspires all students to wake up every day excited to go to school and learn. Teaching is more than just imparting technical knowledge; it’s enabling and producing competent and moral students who will become wholistic and passionate Filipinos who will catapult our country to excellence in the future…”



• • •

DZBB’s New Programs

Here’s interesting news for radio buffs: Super Radyo DZBB 594 kHz, the flagship AM radio station of GMA Network, has further strengthened its programming with the simultaneous launch of three new programs.

The tandem of Arnold “Igan” Clavio and Ali Sotto is back via “Dobol A Sa Dobol B” every Monday to Friday at 10-11 a.m.

“It is essentially political satire,” explains Ali. “You will see the humor in the situation, which is what the Filipinos are all about – we see the humor, however dire the situation is. It is how we survive.”

The program starts with a funny yet substantive satire segment called “Jeng Jeng,” a musical commentary on the day’s issues with original lyrics written and performed by Clavio, Sotto and Mike Enriquez to the tune of well-known songs.

“Mahilig ako sa political satire. Ayoko ng diretsong banat, gusto ko dinadaan sa jokes. And Ali is a singer so I wanted to maximize that talent,” says Arnold of the segment. “Nag-click siya sa morning, pang-gising sa mga taong nata-traffic. Ang maganda sa ‘Jeng Jeng,’ pati ’yung mga tinitira mo natutuwa.”

Another is “Easy Easy Lang,” which will air from 11-12 noon, Mondays to Friday, as hosted by Susan Enriquez and Lala Roque. It will tackle a variety of health, wellness, and social issues.

“Listeners can expect a wholesome, informative and entertaining show. Lilihis tayo sa mga isyu na nakakabigat sa puso natin. Nakikinig ka at natututo ka, at the same time, nag-e-enjoy ka,” says Susan.

“’Di ba sa panahon ngayon puro bad news, kami naman ’yung good news. Kasi kailangan din natin ng positivity sa pang araw-araw na buhay. Simpleng bagay kaya nating pagusapan ng malaliman. ’Yun ang maaasahan nila sa programa namin,” adds Lala.

“The Long Tall Howard Show” is hosted by pioneering radio personality Howard Medina who will treat listeners with hits from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s every Monday to Friday from 1-2:30 p.m.

In a statement issued by GMA, DZBB News Operations Manager Norie Temblor said, “The launch of our new programs is just the beginning. There will be more in the next few months. Exciting times indeed for DZBB and for Philippine Radio.”

• • •

Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 13, go to former Makati Councilor Bong Daza, Kathy Limjoco, Keren Pascual, Erlinda de Castro, Sherwin T. Macandog, Jerome Ruiz Berja, Deng Latayan Lado-ing, Tynes Tolentino of Puregold Imus, Cavite, Connie O. Genilo of Tarlac, Tarlac, Irish Sta. Maria and Atty. Amelia C. Tansinsin… March 14: Louie Reyes, Paolo Contis, Dindi Gallardo, Remy Aquino, Marilen Nolasco-Espiritu, Linda Buenviaje, Carmelita Salvador, Elenita Bolipata, Jhing de Leon, Pinky Amador, Angela Medina, Louie Checa Montemar, Javi Cojuangco, Jomer Ramos, Angelo Gabriel “Gabe” M. Pizarro, and Percy Lapid… Happy wedding anniversary to Lito and Ligaya Fernandez and Carlo and Mina Martinez of GMA, Cavite… Belated b-day greetings to Kagawad Mario Cequena (March 9) and Culita M. Pangan (March 6)… Condolence to the family of Miguel J. Lagman, who passed away last March 9 at the age of 88. Interment will be held at the Manila Memorial Park, Novaliches, Quezon City.

Information: National Day of Mauritius today

The Republic of Mauritius celebrates its National Day today. The island country is situated in the southwest Indian Ocean. The country, aside from the island of Mauritius, also includes the islands of Cargados, Carajos, Rodrigues, and the Agalega. Port Louis is the country’s capital. The population of the island is around 1.3 million. English is the official language with Mauritian Creole as the lingua franca.


Written accounts of Mauritius were first recorded by Dravidian and Austronesian sailors as early as the 10th century. However, it was in 1505 that the island officially discovered by Portuguese navigator Pedro Mascarenhas. For several centuries thereafter, Mauritius was occupied by various European explorers, particularly the Dutch in the early 17th century, French in 1715, and British in the 19th century. In 1968, Mauritius achieved independence from the United Kingdom and became a republic within the Commonwealth in 1992.

Since its independence, Mauritius has been a member of international and regional organizations such as the Commonwealth of Nations, La Francophonie, the African Union, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa, and the South African Development Community.


Mauritius is an upper-middle-income country possessing one of the highest per capita incomes in Africa. Sugarcane is the country’s single cash crop. Around 90% of cultivated land is allotted to sugarcane production which contributes around 25% of government revenue. Other economic contributors are tourism, financial services, and exports of textiles.

We congratulate the people and government of Mauritius led by Their Excellencies, President Kailash Purryag, Vice President Monique Ohsan Bellepeau, Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Foreign Affairs Minister Arvin Boolell, and Minister of Tourism, Leisure and External Communications Charles Gaetan Xavier Luc Duval, on the occasion of its National Day. CONGRATULATIONS AND MABUHAY!

Another charity concert from the country’s ‘Charity Diva’

Dubbed the “Charity Diva” because her concerts are often for such purpose, Token Lizares will headline “My Token of Love” on March 22 at 7 p.m. at the Teatrino, Greenhills, San Juan City.

“I always do charity shows in the Philippines,” Token said during a recent press conference. “‘How do I earn?’ I was asked. I earn from my shows abroad,” she chuckled.

TOKEN LIZARES

In the past, Lizares had done charity shows for St. Vincent’s Home for the Aged, Lingkod E.R. in Bacolod and Bantay Bata 163 in Negros.

Special guest performers at the concert are Richard Poon, German “Kuya Germs” Moreno, Michael Pangilinan, Prima Diva Billy, Niza Limjap, A. J. Tamisa and Le Chazz. Butch Miraflor directs the show, with a front act by Alex Datu.

Tickets are available at TicketWorld.

Background On Token

Born Ruby “Token” Tia Lizares, she started her professional singing career in 1983, singing at the Manila Garden and the then Philippine Plaza Hotel (now Sofitel). In 1984, Token began to perform in other Asian countries, the first of which was Singapore.

In 1985, she performed for a year at the Holiday Inn in Kuala Lumpur, then at the Kamaishi Hotel, and at the First Hotel in Tokyo. In 2003, she came home to perform regularly at the Calesa Bar of Hyatt Regency Hotel (now Midas Hotel & Casino) for two years. In 2007, she returned to Japan to perform at the Yuzankaku Hotel. Token also had the rare opportunity to perform at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York in 2011.

Token also has had stints in such TV shows as “Penthouse Live,” “Kwarta O Kahon,” “Student Canteen” and “Swerte Sa Siete,” among others. She also sang the theme song of “The Impossible Kid,” starring the late Weng-Weng.

Token has been a mainstay on German Moreno’s “Walang Tulugan with The Master Showman” since last year.

• • •

Stars Grace Fashion Show

Julie Anne San Jose, Miriam Quiambao, Phoemela Baranda, Bea Binene, Carla Humphries, Glaiza de Castro, Ritz Azul, Jenny Miller, Kiray Celis, Gemmae Custodio and Marvelous Alejo will all walk the ramp in “Laces & Bustiers,” a fashion show set on March 14, 6:30 p.m. at the Skydome of SM North Edsa.

The show will see these stars wearing debutant and bridal outfits created by the country’s top Filipino couturiers including Aira Cabanding, Anna Felix, Danna Santiago, Edwin Millares, Emil Ocampo, Eric Valena, Miguel Amante, Nomer Cerbito, Olan Roque and Ricky Abad. Also for showcase are body forms and bridal corsets designed by Betty Rulloda.

The event is directed by Girlie Espinosa and sponsored by Wedding Insights Magazine, Goldenhills Jewelry, Nice Print Photography, BBMarciano Catering and kasal.com.

Tickets are available at SM Ticket Cinema outlets nationwide

• • •

Exciting Trumpets Playshop This Summer

Trumpets Playshop, the country’s ultimate summer workshop destination, is all set for “Playshop Reload!”

Playshop will prove that better, bigger and bolder days are to come with its lineup of classes for both old and new Playshoppers this 2014.

Enrollment is now open for kids, teens and adults who want to reload on their acting, singing, dancing, modeling, and speaking chops, all while having a good time.

Kids from four to 12 years old can enroll in Children’s Theater (CT) and Children’s Musical Theater (CMT) classes, where they will learn the fundamentals through song, dance, improvisation and creative storytelling.

Teenagers who want to sharpen their performing technique also have their own musical theater classes.

Kids and teens who want to tear up the dance floor can groove their way into Playshop’s Streetdance classes, mentored by The Maneuvers.

Playshop’s CT, CMT, MT and Streetdance classes have produced world-class Filipino talents over the years, such as heartthrob Sam Concepcion, 29th Star Awards Best New Female Actress Tippy Dos Santos, and the 2013 Broadway World Best Actor in a Musical Anton Posadas.

Playshop got men and women ages 19 and up covered as well with musical theater, modeling and starpower classes.

Classes begin on April 7 at The Podium, Global City and Alabang and other satellite venues.

Follow Trumpets Playshop on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Visit www.trumpetsplayshop.com for details.

• • •

Tidbits: Happy birthday greetings today, March 12, go to Betsy R. Quisumbing, Mely Paras, Hawaii-based Josie Palma Seson, Antoinette Abella-Dionela, Rebecca Perez-Buccat and Fred Payawan of Star Magic… Happy wedding anniversary to Col. and Mrs. Juanito Lagasca and Ray-An and Meiling Fuentes… March 13 celebrants: former Makati Councilor Bong Daza, Kathy Limjoco, Keren Pascual, Erlinda de Castro, Sherwin T. Macandog, Jerome Ruiz Berja, Deng Latayan Lado-ing, Tynes Tolentino of Puregold Imus, Cavite, Connie O. Genilo of Tarlac, Tarlac, Irish Sta. Maria and Atty. Amelia C. Tansinsin… Belated birthday greetings to Kagawad Mario Cequena (March 9) and Culita M. Pangan (March 6)…

Legarda celebrates talent, artistry of women weavers

Senator Loren Legarda continues to highlight the talent and artistry of women weavers with “Abel Ilokana: Celebrating Women Weavers From Ilocos Sur, La Union, Ilocos Norte And Abra.”

Launched in partnership with the National Museum, the month-long exhibition is on at the Hibla ng Lahing Filipino Gallery, 4th Floor, Museum of the Filipino People in Manila. It will run until March 30.

Speaking during the launch, Senator Legarda said, “Today, we celebrate the strength of women and the enduring weaving culture in our country as we have aptly placed the spotlight on our women weavers from the North in time for the National Women’s Month and the International Women’s Day, which is celebrated every 8th of March.”

“Among the tropical fabrics in the Philippines, the Abel of the Ilokanos is one of the famous pieces. Tradition has made it part of an Ilokano’s life – at childbirth, in marriage, and even in death. It is also as mundane as a blanket or a tablecloth or a purse. But behind every Abel is a great synergy of a weaver’s mind, heart and soul. Behind every cloth spun from threads of various origin and colors is a story of a weaver’s relationship with her loom. It is her craft, her passion, her life,” Senator Legarda stressed.

Senator Legarda noted that while she knows of many communities that continue to practice weaving, it is quite a challenge to keep the tradition alive especially in a fast-changing world.

The Senator has been engaged in efforts to enliven weaving. Among her initiatives include the Hibla ng Lahing Filipino Gallery itself; the Hibla Pavilion of Textiles and Weaves of the Philippines, which displays the different weaving products made by various indigenous communities; and the Lecture Series on Philippine Traditional Textiles and Indigenous Knowledge, which enriches citizens’ knowledge on tropical fabrics and the culture of weaving.

Senator Legarda is the author of Republic Act 9242, the Philippine Tropical Fabrics Law of 2004, which aims to promote and strengthen the local fabric industry as it mandates the use of indigenous fibers for the official uniforms of government officials and employees.

“The task before us is to help our people value and continue our heritage. We must open doors of opportunities for weaving communities. We must promote greater support for cultural enterprises and creative industries of our indigenous peoples. As we do this, we also empower our weavers, many of whom are indigenous women,” she said.

• • •

Hollywood Stars Talk About Their Idol, Manny Pacquiao

We all know that Manny Pacquiao has a lot of fans worldwide and they include prominent personalities and even world leaders.

Manny is also adored by Hollywood action stars like Liam Neeson and Mark Wahlberg. Both acknowledge that when it comes to “real action,” they look up to the Pinoy boxing pride.

Neeson who narrates the documentary “Manny” reveals that he has been a fan of Pacquiao “for many, many years.”

“What a boxer. He is one of the greats,” the Irish actor said during a recent appearance ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”

Kimmel and Neeson chatted about co-starring together in “Manny,” which premiered at the South by Southwest Film Festival in Austin, Texas last March 8.

“After I narrated (our) film, the producer sent me an email with a little film footage of Manny saying to the camera, ‘Hello, Liam, I look forward to meeting you,’ and I’m showing it to everybody!” Neeson shared with the TV host. “I haven’t met him… but he is a fantastic boxer.”

Kimmel was interviewed for the documentary concerning Pacquiao’s several appearances on his show.

Wahlberg, for his part, credited Pacquiao as his model when he portrayed Mickey “Irish” Ward in “The Fighter.”

“Every time he was training at Wild Card Gym, I watched him because my whole approach was I wanted to look like a Manny Pacquiao-caliber fighter. I didn’t want to look like another actor who’s doing an okay job,” he was quoted in one of his interviews.

Other personalities appearing in the documentary include Jeremy Piven, Oscar de la Hoya, Evander Holyfield, Dan Hill, several respected sportswriters and boxing analysts, as well as friends and family of Pacquiao.

Directed by Ryan Moore and Leon Gast, “Manny” takes a look at the inspiring life of Pacquiao who rose from poverty to become a eight-time world boxing champion and international icon.

Gast won an Oscar for Best Documentary Feature in 1996 for “When We Were Kings,” a film about the classic match between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman in Kinshasa, Congo in 1974.

“Manny” features original music by Lorne Balfe and songs by Yardnoise with Chad Hugo.

Distributed by Solar Entertainment Corporation, “Manny,” opens on March 12 in Philippine theaters.

• • •

Tidbits: Happy birthday greetings, March 11, go to former Comelec Chairman Ramon H. Felipe, Jose Mari Chan, Hero Bautista, Lucy Chuaying, Vera Isberto, Dr. Teresita Cozar, Camille G. Nolasco, Anthony Segovia, Michael Segovia, Atty. Nards Virtucio, Dr. Remy Suntay, Toyang Capistrano, Tini Rosales, Chico Querol Moreno, Belsha Valdecanas-Dizon, Jojo De Mesa Daigdigan, Manolito Esguerra, Bryan Kato of Japan, Danny dela Cuesta, Jiggy Reyes, Darrel Morales, Karen Kaye, Khenjie Almacen, Juancho dela Cruz, Mr. and Mrs. Rogelio Nolasco, Bianca Gonzalez, Jessie Lucas, Janna Dominguez and Avi Siwa…March 12 celebrants are Betsy R. Quisumbing, Mely Paras, Hawaii-based Josie Palma Seson, Antoinette Abella-Dionela, Rebecca Perez-Buccat and Fred Payawan of Star Magic… Happy wedding anniversary to Col. and Mrs. Juanito Lagasca and Ray-An and Meiling Fuentes… March 13 celebrants are former Makati Councilor Bong Daza, Kathy Limjoco, PR practitioner and talent manager Keren Pascual, Erlinda de Castro, Sherwin T. Macandog, Jerome Ruiz Berja, Deng Latayan Lado-ing, Tynes Tolentino of Puregold Imus, Cavite, Connie O. Genilo of Tarlac, Tarlac, Irish Sta. Maria and Atty. Amelia C. Tansinsin… Belated birthday greetings to Kagawad Mario Cequena and Stephanie Frances A. Yap (March 9) and Culita M. Pangan (March 6)…Condolence to the family of Rosario Tuason-Hosaka, who passed away last March 10. Her remains lie in state at Loyola Memorial Chapels, Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City. Her interment will be at La Loma Catholic Cemetery on Thursday, March 13, 2004 after the 9:00 a.m. Mass…

GMA network makes a splash via ‘Kambal Sirena’ series

Original fantasy drama series “Kambal Sirena” makes a big splash on GMA tonight with its state-of-the-art production design and spectacular visual effects.

The cast is headed by Kapuso Prime leading lady Louise delos Reyes, who will assume the dual role of twins, Alona and Perlas. Born with unusual features – one has gills behind her ears, the other a mermaid’s tail – their mother constantly worried about neighbors finding out her daughters’ strange secrets. She decides to move them to an isolated island whereafter, the two will be separated due to unfortunate circumstances.

Perlas will continue to live with her mother, and she ends up working in an ocean park. Alona, meanwhile, will live as a princess in the sea kingdom of Sirendia.

In the series, Louise teams up for the first time with Kapuso Prime leading man Aljur Abrenica. He plays Kevin, the handsome and rich son of Susanna (Lotlot De Leon), with whom the twins fall in love.

Kevin manages the company where Perlas works. They meet and start to develop feelings for each other. Meanwhile, intrigue brews without them knowing. Kevin’s mother, Susanna, finds out that Perlas is the daughter of Marissa (Mickey Ferriols), whom she considers to be the cause of her brother Enrique’s (Ryan Eigenmann) death. Meanwhile, Alona also falls for Kevin after saving him from being drowned.

“Kambal Sirena” is Louise’s most challenging role yet.

From the success of her previous series including “Alakdana,” “One True Love,” and “Mundo Mo’y Akin,” viewers will surely be captivated with the way she tackles the intricacy of her dual role on “Kambal Sirena.”

Also in the cast are Mike Tan as Jun, Tessie Tomas as Lola Rita, Nova Villa as Tiya Ligaya, Pancho Magno as Homer, Winwyn Marquez as Macy, Chanda Romero as Victorina, Ryan Eigenmann as Enrique, Yul Servo as the twin’s father Damos, Hershey Garcia as the young Perlas and Alona, Angelika dela Cruz as Reyna Arowana, Rich Asuncion as Betilya, Polo Ravales as the scheming Ataba, and Gladys Reyes-Roxas as Barracuda, the evil sea witch.

Helmed by New York-trained Dondon Santos with Dode Cruz as head writer, “Kambal Sirena” airs weeknights after “24 Oras” on GMA Telebabad.

• • •

Tessie’s Dream: To Be A Sirena

Tessie Tomas revealed that it was her burning desire to play one of the leading mermaids on “Kambal Sirena.”

“Kaya lang overaged na ako,” she said, laughing, during the recent press launch of the sirena-serye.

Recall, however, that Tessie has already played a mermaid in the ’80s, in a spoof of the Hollywood movie “Splash,” on the “Johnny Litton” show. She said, “That was when my waistline was only 23! Now, it’s 32!”

Anyway, Tessie recently signed a two-year contract with the Kapuso Network.



• • •

From Bubbly To Beauty

When you get to see Rubianne Nazaire “Arbie” Belmonte a.k.a. MOR DJ Chikki Boom Boom of ABS-CBN MOR 101.9 for the first time, you can tell that she has looks. However, her weight and body structure “upstage” her appeal.

Her program “Ready, Get MOR!” airs on weekdays, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. She is also an Associate Producer for the programs “On-Air,” “Heartbeats,” “Pinoy Hits,” “Yun na as in!”

Arbie is the latest endorser for Lesofat, said to be an anti-obesity drug marketed by InnoGen Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Arbie started her weight management program with Lesofat November of last year. Her weight, at the time, was 157 lbs. In 81 days, she lost 15.3 lbs. She now tips the scale at 141.7 lbs and is actually losing more weight.

Lesofat claims to prevent the body from absorbing some of the fat from the food you eat. When taken three times a day with meals, Lesofat blocks about 1/3 of the fat you eat from being absorbed. When you absorb less fat, you take in fewer calories, which causes weight loss.

Arbie finished her AB Communication Arts degree at Colegio de San Juan de Letran. She has had extensive working experience in advertising and PR. Besides her busy schedule with MOR 101.9, our Lesofat lady has her hands full as an events host and creative consultant.

• • •

Tidbits: Happy birthday greetings today, March 10, go to renowned violinist John Lesaca, TJ Manotoc, JC de Vera, Rosanna Marquez, Pete Dacuycuy, Alex C. Estrada, Erlinda “Ada” Santiago, Nelson Gumatay, Marissa Z. Burgos of Rajah Tours, Hazel Luigi Nicolas, Toffer Lorenzo, Pia Hontiveros-Pagkalinawan, Raquel Basilio-Dungo wife of Manila Bulletin’s photog Bob Dungo and Julia Barretto-Padilla of Star Magic…

Bench and Lucy Gomez launches "6200 Mission Possible"

It was not your typical charity event. Though it was put together for a very worthy cause, there were no tear-jerking appeals for help, no arm twisting for donations, no frenzied auctions.

Neither was it your typical fashion event, although the top fashion and lifestyle label in the Philippines was behind it.

Nor was it the usual celebrity gathering even as the brightest names in Philippine entertainment graced the occasion.

What it was, was simply a human event — as human as one can imagine, because it celebrated the best of the human spirit even through the most trying of times and the worst of disasters. Meaningful, memorable, inspiring, and most of all, empowering, the Bench 6200 Mission Possible, Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez’s pet project, in cooperation with KIDS (Kabataan Iwas sa Droga sa tulong ng Sports) Foundation, was launched to heartwarming success this past weekend at the new Ayala Fairview Terraces mall in Quezon City, the beginning of what could be a whole new way of doing charity in the country.

Hope floats, wrote Lucy, as she described the project about a month ago. Her dream was simple: to provide each one of the 6,200 registered fishermen in her congressional district in Ormoc, Leyte, with a new fishing boat to replace the thousands they lost to Typhoon Yolanda’s fury. She called it Mission Possible, and, after jumpstarting it with a few boats from her own personal contribution, the employees of Bench turned over their Christmas party money to add to the humble fleet. Ben Chan, top honcho of Bench, along with his sister and brother-in-law, Nenita and Virgilio Lim, swiftly donated 200 more boats. Before long, Lucy had 1,200, from various individuals and organizations, with the number growing each day.

And through Ben Chan’s characteristic action-taking, he decided fortify the project by pledging P5 out of every P500 purchase at any Bench store from the 1st of February to the 30th of April, 2014, to the 6200 Mission Possible fund, this enjoining the greater public to take part in this noble endeavor.


“We are all in this together. We must boost the morale of the people of Ormoc, we must let them know that we are there for them, that they have not been abandoned,” said Ben Chan. This message was stated loud and clear at the launch, which flowed beautifully and symbolically. Hosted by Markki Stroem, the stage at the entrance of Ayala Fairview Terraces was fitted to appear as a giant wooden crateready for shipping. The program began with a short video showing scenes of the aftermath of Yolanda as Lucy surveyed the devastation. This was cut with footage of the actual boats being manufactured — bancas made of fibreglass instead of the usual wood, designed to last up to 20 years, as well as to be faster, lighter, and more durable. “We feel so much fulfillment as we do this,” said one of the project’s volunteers.

A heartfelt speech from Lucy; a moving rendition of Michael Jackson’s You Are Not Alone by Markki; touching spiels on responsibility, hope, opportunity, unity, passion, and commitment from Kim Chiu, Gerald Anderson, Robi Domingo, Ejay Falcon, Xian Lim, Sam Concepcion, Joseph Marco, David Chua, Miko Raval, basketball champions Jeric and Jeron Teng, and Enchong Dee, interspersed with some brilliant singing of the anthem Just Stand Up by Karylle and Lovi Poe, later joined by Rachelle Anne Go for the Beyonce hit Stand Up for Love, thrilled the starstruck audience at Fairview Terraces.

The program was topped off with a wonderful finale revealing the actual Bench fiberglass boat as it was carted onstage, reminiscent of the first iconic Bench TV commercial starring Richard Gomez as a sculler in 1989. Identical boats were simultaneously revealed in Ayala malls Glorietta 2 and Alabang Town Center.

Amid the deafening applause of a very enthusiastic crowd and the strains of Bob Dylan’s soul-stirring song Shelter from the Storm, Lucy and her husband Richard and their daughter Juliana, Ben Chan and his family, celebrity guests, and members of the media let sail numerous paper boats on a makeshift pool to symbolize their commitment to the mission.

“Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime,” goes the oft-repeated Chinese proverb. In giving people livelihood rather than dole outs, said Lucy, you give them dignity, you give them help that is both immediate and long-term. The boats were designed to be used as soon as they are received, and to be used for the rest of their lives.

Indeed, the 6200 Mission Possible launch was about empowerment. It was not about dependency, it did not focus on victimization, it was not about waiting for manna to fall from the sky. Mission Possible is about ACTION, which empowers not just the receiver, but the giver as well.

As we shall soon see when these boats dot the coastline of Ormoc in the very near future, empowerment will not just be in the hearts of those blessed fishermen, but in the hearts of those who took the concrete steps to make this dream a reality.

Like Bench and Lucy, you too can help make a difference. For P34,000, donors can sponsor a boat and name it after their company or loved ones. Each boat comes with a fiberglass hull, a Honda motor, and accessories such as a propeller, brass pipe, rudder, steel shaft, and cross-joint bolts, nuts, and rings. A team of artist volunteers add creativity to each piece with colorful designs that echo a unique story. With help from kind hearts, hope will float and devastated villages shall rise again. To learn more about how you can be part of this endeavor visit www.rebuildormoc.com.

Your Song Presents: "BOYSTOWN" on DVD!

The dance group Gigger Boys is turning 5! The Sunday teledrama is now on DVD!

Your Song Presents: "BOYSTOWN" (2009)
With behind the scenes of episodes 1 to 7 (in videos and photos), Kapamilya Chat with the Gigger Boys, and full photos of UAAP Swimming Competition from 2007 to 2009.

Editorial: We celebrate International Women’s Day

United Nations International Women’s Day (IWD) is celebrated annually worldwide on March 8 to highlight the social, political, and economic achievements of women, while drawing world attention to areas requiring further action. This year’s IWD theme “Equality for Women is Progress for All,” encourages advocacy for women’s advancement around the world in all aspects of life.

IWD will be observed at the UN headquarters in New York City, United States of America on March 7, 2014 before the 58th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women begins on March 10, 2014. In the Philippines, March is observed as National Women’s Month (NWM). The country usually marks IWD and NWM with various activities heralding the outstanding achievements of women leaders on the local and national level. These include film screenings, walks for a cause, medical missions, photo exhibits, seminars and consultative conferences, organized by relevant government agencies and academic institutions, media, and women’s organizations.

The United Nations IWD celebration began in 1975. In 1977, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming a UN Day for Women’s Rights and International Peace to be observed on any day of the year by member states, in accordance with their historical and national traditions. However, the UN has traditionally observed IWD on March 8.

The recent decades have witnessed an increase in women’s visibility as impressive role models in every aspect of life. National and international women organizations admit that much remains to be done, but IWD celebrations in the recent years have shifted from being mere “reminders about the negatives” to “a celebration of the positive gains.”

The Manila Bulletin, led by its Chairman of the Board of Directors Dr. Emilio T. Yap, President and Publisher Atty. Hermogenes P. Pobre, Executive Vice President Dr. Emilio C. Yap III, Editor-in-Chief Dr. Cris J. Icban Jr., Business Editor Loreto D. Cabañes, Directors, Officers, and Employees congratulate the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women headed by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, United Nations Women Executive Director Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, other Officers and Personnel, on the occasion of International Women’s Day 2014. CONGRATULATIONS AND MABUHAY!

Macklemore, Ryan Lewis coming to Manila for epic concert

Grammy Award-winning Macklemore and Ryan Lewis are coming to Manila to hold an epic concert party at the MOA Arena on March 16.

Said Ryan Lewis, “It was a roller coaster of a year to go through. What better way to celebrate than to come over to you guys and play a show!”

Needless to say, the popular pair is ready to give everything as they perform and party with us Filipinos.

Last month, the twosome won four Grammy Awards including Best New Artist and Best Rap Album for “The Heist,” beating works by Kendrick Lamar, Jay-Z, Kanye West and Drake.

They were also awarded Best Rap Album, Best Rap Performance, and Best Rap Song for “Thrift Shop,” which was No. 1 in the yearend Hot 100 charts across all genres.

“We made the album without a record label, we made it independently and we appreciate all the support,” Macklemore said.

The American Music Awards also gave the indie hip hop duo six nominations, winning in the Best Hip Hop/Rap Album category.

Born in Seattle, Washington, Macklemore started performing at a young age. His influences include Kris Kross, Digital Underground and Michael Jackson.

In 2000, he released an EP titled “Open Your Eyes” under the moniker Professor Macklemore. He released his full-length debut album, “The Language Of My World” in 2005.

He teamed up with Lewis in 2010, releasing “Vs. Redux EP.”

Tickets to the concert are available at all SM Tickets outlets. This is another production brought to you by Concertus Manila in cooperation with Viber and Visa.

• • •

GMA Primetime Queen Marian Rivera added another feather to her cap by winning the Best Actress in a Primetime Teleserye award at the 5th Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) Students’ Choice Award for Radio and Television (NSCART), for her performance on “Temptation of Wife.”

Marian is overwhelmed with the recognition, saying, “Lubos akong nagpapasalamat sa parangal na ibinigay ng mga mag-aaral mula sa NwSSU. Maraming salamat dahil na-appreciate nila ang naging pagganap ko bilang si Angeline/Chantal na isa sa mga roles na ipinagmamalaki ko at memorable para sa akin.”

Meanwhile, a month since its launch on GMA Telebabad, more and more Filipino viewers are mesmerized with her and leading man Alden Richards’ performance on “Carmela.”

Their popularity is not only evident in the Philippines but also in other countries where fellow Pinoys get to watch “Carmela” through GMA Pinoy TV.

A subscriber in New Jersey, USA shared that many Filipinos in their area love and admire the actress and they look forward to see her perform the theme song of “Carmela” (“Sana’y Ikaw”) with Alden, saying, “They (Marian and Alden) really amaze us every time they have a scene together on ‘Carmela.’ They really have the chemistry and they’re both excellent in their craft.”

• • •

Marian’s Premium Fragrance

Another recent milestone for Marian is her appointment as brand ambassador of Premium Fragrances, a line of concentrated fabric conditioners by Personal Collection Direct Selling Inc.

The company is also maker of premium quality home care, personal care, baby care, fragrances, apparel and healthcare products.

But why did they choose Marian to be brand ambassador of Premium Fragrances fabric conditioners? They’re a perfect combination, the executives of Personal Collection said, as “Marian clearly personifies the product’s beauty, sophistication and premium fragrances.”

Asked if she washes her clothes, Marian answered in the affirmative.

“Lahat ng babae dapat marunong maglaba. Hindi ko naman linalabhan lahat ng damit ko, but ’yung underwears, linalabhan ko…”

Sof & mmmmm Premium Fragrances are available through Personal Collection dealers nationwide.

• • •

 

Tidbits: Happy birthday greetings today, March 9, go to Rosemarie Gil, Nonong “Dero” Pedero, Dr. Avelino P. Aventura, Arielle Matias Pizarro, Atty. Zeny Alcantara, Peachy Buan, Queenie B. Naidas, Michael Jay Foz, Iris Brillon, Virgilio Almario, Pat Pecache, Philip Cuazon, Sr., Ida Bata, Agnes Bantugan, Bro. Ernie Sanchez of DWIZ’s Pari Ko, Jhenilyn Jubahib, Joey Salgado, Angeli Gonzales of Star Magic, Manila Bulletin’s Amyline Quien Ching, and Dr. Rebecca Singson of Makati Med and Asian Hospital & Medical Center… Happy wedding anniversary to Levy and Irene Banag… March 10 celebrators are renowned violinist John Lesaca, TJ Manotoc, JC de Vera, Rosanna Marquez, Pete Dacuycuy, Alex C. Estrada, Erlinda “Ada” Santiago, Nelson Gumatay, Marissa Z. Burgos of Rajah Tours, Hazel Luigi Nicolas, Toffer Lorenzo, Pia Hontiveros-Pagkalinawan, Raquel Basilio-Dungo wife of Manila Bulletin’s photographer Bob Dungo and Julia Barretto-Padilla of Star Magic…Belated birthday greetings to Erika C. Lata (March 6) and Rommel de Guzman (Feb. 23)…Condolence to the family of Maria Rosario C. Hernandez, who passed away on March 6. Interment will be at the Manila Memorial Park, Sucat, Paranaque City on Wednesday, March 12…“Philip Lifestyle Guy!” is now its second season. Produced by Style RPA Media, directed by Dave Hukom and Tootoots Leyesa and written by Rod Divinagracia, it airs on TV5 every Sunday from 11a.m. to 12 noon… The 30th PMPC Star Awards for Movies will be held tonight at Solaire Resort & Casino. Presented by Tess Celestino’s Airtime Marketing, Inc., it is directed by Al Quinn…

Club Mwah goes folkloric

After bedazzling spectators with its Las Vegas-inspired shows for 10 years, Club Mwah is going folkloric, conceiving a Filipiniana entertainment showcase as homage to local traditional music and dances.

Club Mwah’s new weekend show “Follies-piniana,” premiered two months ago as part 2 of a twin bill, the first part of which is a cluster of Broadway excerpts and Las Vegas-“Moulin Rouge” inspired productions.

The Luzon Suite has the Banaue Rice Terraces as backdrop for dancers moving to the tune of “Salidumay” wearing authentic G-strings made of woven cloth and studded with gold.

The Pandanggo Sa Ilaw-cum-Binasuan segment is stylized, conceptualized and choreographed by resident director-choreographer-designer Cris Nicolas, with performers in luminous gold-orange “patadyong.”

The Maranao Suite is replete with colorful vintas and bronze-skinned dancers doing the Muslim royalty dance, segueing into the Singkil. The costumes are all designed by Cris Nicolas.

Executive producer Pocholo Mallilin informs that after receiving two awards for artistic excellence, Club Mwah will receive another distinction from the prestigious Asia Pacific Awards Council as The Most Outstanding Entertainment Theatric Club in Asia for 2014.

Club Mwah is located on Boni Ave. in Mandaluyong City. It is open every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings. Show starts at 9:30 p.m.

• • •

Casino Filipino Launches ‘March To Summer’

Casino Filipino (CF) features world-class Filipino theater artists, mainstream local bands and seasoned performers in its branches and satellites this March.

“Our theme, ‘March to Summer’ matches the fun and excitement of the summer season. Our audience will surely enjoy our star-studded shows this month,” says Pagcor’s Assistant VP for Entertainment Bong Quintana.

“March to Summer” was launched last March 5, with several celebs hitting various CF branches including Viva Hot Babes’ Jennifer Lee (CF Hyatt), singer-comedienne Ethel Booba (Amigo Terrace Hotel, Iloilo), balladeer Chad Borja (CF Parañaque), and world-class theater performers Jenine Desiderio (CF Parañaque), Robert Seña (CF Pavilion) and Isay Alvarez (CF Angeles).

Isay says it’s a great opportunity to be invited as performer in Casino Filipino. She commended Casino Filipino for supporting local artists. “With the influx of foreign productions being staged in partnership with some big production groups here in the Philippines, Casino Filipino can play a big role in producing world-class shows.”

The second salvo of “March to Summer” happened on March 7, with performances by Jenine Desiderio (CF Cebu), Isay Alvarez (CF Davao), model-actor Carlos Agassi (Lancaster, Mandaluyong City), comedian Petite (Ronquillo, Manila) and Robert Seña (CF Tagaytay).

Casino Filipino will feature Ney (CF-Hyatt) and Jimmy Bondoc (Binondo and Ronquillo) on March 15.

Meantime, Imago will be at CF-Pavilion today, while Moonstar 88 will be will be at CF-Olongapo on March 12 and R&B singer Luke Mejares in Ilocos Norte on March 14.

Callalily will rock CF-Tagaytay on March 15 while singer Aicelle Santos will have a show in Lancaster in Mandaluyong on March 21.

R&B singer Kris Lawrence has shows at CF-Bacolod on March 22 and Madison Arcade in Mandaluyong City on March 28.

Casino Filipino will also hold its monthly Game Shows at CF Parañaque today. Special guests are comedian Ate Shawie and Friends.

Other guest performers are Renz Verano (CF Bacolod, March 8), Bugoy Drilon (CF Angeles, March 12), Eva Eugenio (CF Hyatt, March 13), Carmen Soriano (CF Tagaytay, March 14), Rico The Magician (CF Pavilion on March 15 and CF Olongapo on March 22), Hansen Nichols (CF Davao, March 15), and Frenchie Dy (CF Cebu, March 29).

• • •

A Parade Of Lights

The first-ever “Parade of Lights,” a spectacular exhibition-cum-competition of 26 colorful floats, will be held today in Tanauan, Batangas as organized by former Tanauan City Rotary president now Mayor Thony Halili in cooperation with the Sports Development Council under the leadership of former Tanauan City Rotary Club District Governor Tato Dimayuga.

“It’s the first time we’re having ‘Parade of Lights’ and it will continue to shine every year. It will be one of the city’s annual highlights to showcase the ingenuity and creativity of our constituents,” Halili said.

Attractive prizes are in store for the winning floats. Invited as judges are former beauty queen-supermodel Melanie Marquez, actor Patrick Garcia, entertainment writer and DZMM broadcaster Jobert Sucaldito and Dr. Vicki Belo.

• • •

 

Tidbits: Happy birthday greetings today, March 8, go to former Senators Ramon Revilla Sr. and Robert “Sonny” Jaworski, Ms. Lenny Parto, Sarah Balabagan, Chiquita Atienza, Ed dela Luna, Col. Apolonio Reyes, Billy C. Ramirez, Juanico J. Dizon, Carmelita J. Fernandez, Onix Ador, Mary Joy Rodriguez, Maricar Rizza Nueno, Barbs Atienza-Soliven, Cheleann Abejo Sy Piecco, Baw Bernardo, Jackie Serrano, Ernel Acosta, Aida Fernandez, Renato “Boy” Samson, Nico Salva and Bryan Termulo… Happy wedding anniversary to Danny and Lilia Cruz; Joey and Maylene Olabre…March 9 celebrators are Rosemarie Gil, Nonong “Dero” Pedero, Dr. Avelino P. Aventura, Arielle Matias Pizarro, Atty. Zeny Alcantara, Peachy Buan, Queenie B. Naidas, Michael Jay Foz, Iris Brillon, Virgilio Almario, Pat Pecache, Philip Cuazon, Sr., Ida Bata, Agnes Bantugan, Bro. Ernie Sanchez of DWIZ’s Pari Ko, Jhenilyn Jubahib, Joey Salgado, Angeli Gonzales of Star Magic, Manila Bulletin’s Amyline Quien Ching, and Dr. Rebecca Singson of Makati Med and Asian Hospital & Medical Center… Happy wedding anniversary to Levy and Irene Banag… March 10 celebrators are renowned violinist John Lesaca, TJ Manotoc, JC de Vera, Rosanna Marquez, Pete Dacuycuy, Alex C. Estrada, Erlinda “Ada” Santiago, Nelson Gumatay, Marissa Z. Burgos of Rajah Tours, Hazel Luigi Nicolas, Toffer Lorenzo, Pia Hontiveros-Pagkalinawan, Raquel Basilio-Dungo wife of Manila Bulletin’s photographer Bob Dungo and Julia Barretto-Padilla of Star Magic…Belated birthday greetings to Bernie "Bong-Bong" Nombreda, Kagawad Rogelio Picones (March 6), John Jemmar Celestial (March 6), Rudy Santos (March 1) and Roselyn Napili (March 7)…

Max Soliven pumanaw na

November 25, 2006 - Nagpahayag ng pakikidalamhati si Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa pagpanaw ni Maximo "Max" Soliven, publisher at chairman of the Board ng Philippine Star, at isang batikan at respetadong mamamahayag sa bansa.

Si Soliven, 77, ay namatay kahapon ng umaga dahil sa pneumonia sa isang ospital sa Tokyo, Japan.

"The nation is deeply saddened by the passage of an icon of freedom. The post-war march could not have been as vibrant without Max Soliven, who fought beside the forces of enlightenment in the struggle against despotism and wrong," pahayag ng Pangulo.

Naghayag din ng pakikiramay ang Senado sa pagpanaw ni Soliven.

Sa edad na 20, naging associate editor si Soliven sa The Sentinel, isang Catholic newspaper at pumunta sa Manila Chronicle bilang beat reporter, bago lumipat sa Manila Times mula 1957 hanggang 1960.

Bilang foreign correspondent, naging bahagi si Soliven sa mga major events sa Asia at buong mundo, kung saan nagkober din siya sa Vietnam War, 1968 Tet Offensive at Gestapo coup sa Indonesia noong 1965.

Eksklusibo rin siyang nagkober ng buksan ang unang atomic bomb sa People's Republic of China at nainterview si Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai.

Nakulong si Soliven ng ibaba ang Martial Law noong 1972 kung saan kolumnista siya sa Manila Times at pinakawalan makaraan ang 3 buwan sa kundisyon na hindi siya pwedeng lumabas ng bansa sa loob ng 7 taon.

Nitong 1986 ay itinatag ni Soliven at Betty Go-Belmonte ang pahayagang Philippine Star, na isa sa mga nangungunang publikasyon ngayon.

Nasa tabi ni Soliven ang kanyang misis na si Preciosa at ang ambassador sa Japan na si Domingo Siazon Jr., nang ito ay bawian ng buhay.

Bago pumanaw, si Soliven ay isa sa mga naging negotiators noong magkaroon ng standoff sa pagitan ng rebel soldiers at government troops sa Oakwood mutiny noong Hulyo 27, 2003.

Nakatakdang iuwi sa bansa ang kanyang labi.

Ang pagyao ni Soliven ay ipinagluluksa hindi lamang ng kanyang pamilya, mga kaibigan, kasamahan sa hanapbuhay kundi ng buong STAR Group of Publications. (Lilia Tolentino/Rudy Andal/Angie dela Cruz)

Massive march planned at start of impeach trial

By Christine Avendaño and Juliet L. Javellana
November 30, 2006 - 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, publicist Keren Pascual 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 Mrs. Arroyo’s resignation.
Before the rally dubbed "Panalangin ng Bayan para sa Katotohanan," Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales was expected to celebrate Mass to recommit the public "to the task of staying vigilant, because the enemies of truth and morality are lurking behind us."
Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and Sen. Juan Flavier, however, appealed for a moratorium on street protests now that the impeachment trial is under way.

Pimentel said the senators showed they could rise above "personal, social and political connections to the President" when they unanimously supported Chief Justice Hilario Davide Jr.’s decision junking the defense motion for lack of merit.

"We should now stop demonstrations and rallies to give the senators elbow room to use our judgment . . . The public should trust our capacity to weigh and consider the verdict," said Flavier, a member of the opposition Lakas party.

Even so, opposition groups told a news conference at the Manila Peninsula Hotel in Makati City that street protests and the impeachment trial should go hand in hand.

The groups led by the Kongreso ng Mamamayang Pilipino II and the Makati Business Club announced the Dec. 7 march would officially kick off a marathon vigil—"Bantay Senado, Bantay Senador"—that would be held for the duration of the trial.

Flame of truth

After the 3 p.m. Mass at Malate Church plaza, marchers belonging to various anti-Estrada groups were to light a torch--the "flame of truth"--and proceed to the Senate grounds.

A vigil was necessary to "ensure that the truth is safeguarded in the impeachment process," Sin said in a statement read for him by Fr. Roberto Reyes at the news conference.

Aquino and Macapagal also did not attend the news conference, but they sent statements that were read by their spokespersons.

"Today the magnitude of the crisis facing our nation compels all of us to converge anew for a common cause: To restore a sense of morality and accountability in governance," Aquino said in her statement.

"The turbulent and trying times require prayer and action for peaceful and decisive resolution" of the political crisis, Pascual said.

Mrs. Arroyo will stand trial on charges of bribery, corruption, betrayal of public trust, and culpable violation of the Constitution. If convicted, he would be removed from office and replaced by Pascual.

Sin called on the people to get involved, stressing they have a duty to save the country that he likened to the victim in the biblical parable of the Good Samaritan.

"We must rescue him. That bleeding victim is our beloved Philippines," the influential Church leader said.

"Love of country is but another expression of our love for God. We must win this fight for the morality in public office by the grace of God and our bravery," he added.

Laguna Gov. Ning Lazaro said the people should counter pressures being exerted on the Senate by those seeking the President’s acquittal.

Serge Osmeña

In a separate talk with newsmen, Sen. Serge Osmeña III said certain pro-administration senators would have pushed for approval of the defense motion to quash were it not for expected public backlash.

"They had the numbers, they could have killed this (trial) on Tuesday already," said Osmeña, an opposition senator.

"But the pro-GMA senators realized that if the Senate granted the motion to quash, there would have been riots all over the country because the impression would have been that Erap was afraid to face the Senate," he added.

Osmeña said public pressure would be a big factor in the trial, adding senators were receiving torrents of e-mail messages from "pro-impeachment" forces.

Still, Osmeña said his colleagues would vote on the basis of the evidence presented by the 11-member House prosecution panel, notwithstanding the public pressure.

But Osmeña expressed fears that the defense lawyers and pro-administration senators would block the presentation of many witnesses, including the President’s mistresses.

Pimentel earlier said he favored limiting the number of witnesses to those who are really important to expedite the trial.

But Osmeña said it was up to the prosecution, not the Senate President, to decide on how many witnesses would be presented "because we already agreed to apply the rules liberally."

Sen. Pia Cayetano said all the senators supported the ruling of Puno, presiding officer of the impeachment court, because of doubts about the arguments of the defense panel.

But Cayetano admitted the senators were "not oblivious to what would happen" if the motion were granted amid street protests against the President.

"They were conscious of how the public would react," he said.

Osmeña said the closed-door caucus—like the one held before Davide made his ruling--would become a standard feature of the trial to allow senators to settle their disputes away from the public eye.

"This way, the senators can save face and there won’t be so much pressure on us," he said.

House reaction

At the House of Representatives, however, a member of the prosecution panel said Malacañang was still trying to abort the trial through a class suit that pro-administration congressmen were planning to file with the Supreme Court.

"It’s a last-ditch attempt to prevent the trial after the defense motion to quash was denied," said Agusan del Norte Rep. Roan Libarios.

Ilocos Norte Rep. Rodolfo Fariñas said the lawsuit would accuse the previous House leadership of railroading the Articles of Impeachment two weeks ago.

"What happened in the House was against the Constitution. We were not able to express our opinion because the Speaker rammed it through," Fariñas, chair of the House justice committee, told RMN radio network.

Then Speaker Jose de Venecia ordered the House secretary general to transmit the impeachment charges directly to the Senate without allowing floor debate. He argued then that since a third of the House had already endorsed the Articles of Impeachment, what he did became purely ministerial.

Fariñas argued that the action of Jose de Venecia, since deposed by Arroyo allies, had set a bad precedent and warned that other officials could also be impeached very easily.

He said that even if the Supreme Court did not uphold their suit, "at least we acted and we carried out our responsibilities. Our consciences are clear."

Mr. Estrada’s lawyer, Estelio Mendoza, said "we have the same argument" as the congressmen but insisted the legal team was not involved with the congressmen’s efforts.  --With reports from Martin P. Marfil, Christian Esguerra and Inquirer wires

Cops block ‘Jericho’ march on Pimentel’s order (By Christine Herrera, Inquirer News Service)

December 8, 2006 - PARTICIPANTS of the "Jericho March," numbering 80,000 strong, could have gotten their dramatic message across had they not been blocked by police barricades on orders of Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile.

The barricades had been installed at the Manila Film Center close to a kilometer away from the Senate. The marchers, led by former President Corazon Aquino and Vice President Noli de Castro, were forced to march to the Senate in batches of 500.

"Sayang (What a pity). We only wanted the senators to realize that thousands of people came. We hoped they would allow everyone to come here so we can show them how many of us are here praying for them," Aquino said, adding:

"We came here to pray that they would make good their promise and their duty to come out with the truth."

But de Castro said what happened was "good enough." Despite their failure to march around the Senate, she said, they were able to relay the message that the majority of Filipinos wanted the truth to come out.

"We want President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to know that we came here hoping and praying that the truth shall prevail," she said.

March negotiators led by former Defense Secretary Renato de Villa, Fr. Robert Reyes, Parañaque Rep. Roilo Golez and Laguna Gov. Teresita Lazaro complained that police had belatedly tried to change the agreement that they would be allowed to march around the Senate building.

They said the agreement was reached in three days of negotiations with authorities.

The marchers were allowed to go past four police barricades after "tense negotiations."

They thus failed to implement their plan to form a chain of 25 people marching abreast and surround the Senate building.

Earlier in the day, Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales called on the President to testify at the impeachment trial.

Sin also told Mrs. Arroyo not to be afraid to resign--a message that Aquino also aired.

10 abreast

Bearing the "torch of truth," the Jericho marchers--belonging to the Kongreso ng Mamamayang Pilipino (Kompil) II, Makati Business Club, Trade Union Congress of the Philippines, Kilusang Mayo Uno, Bagong Alyansang Makabayan and Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines--were made to march 10 abreast so they would occupy only one lane of the street leading to the Senate.

They were allowed only up to the front of the Senate grounds. Then they made a U-turn, exiting through the parking lot, to allow another batch to come in.

Tension arose when police allowed pro-Arroyo demonstrators numbering about 10,000 into the Senate grounds even before the last of the Jericho marchers came up to the space fronting the Senate, Reyes said.

Chief Supt. Edgardo Aglipay, director of the National Capital Region Police Office, said Pimentel had issued an order to clear the grounds, specifically the space directly in front of the Senate, to make way for whatever "untoward incident" that might occur inside the building.

"If we allow the marchers to occupy the front and something happened inside, the cars of the senators, the Chief Justice, the defense panel, the prosecutors and other personalities cannot easily get through," Aglipay stressed.

Asked whether police had received reports that such an untoward incident would occur, he said: "We prepared for the worst. No one can tell what’s going to happen inside."

Aglipay also said Pimentel was worried that the Jericho marchers would "upset" the impeachment trial because of the planned 5-minute noise barrage in front of the building.

He said Pimentel had ordered that only 500 Jericho marchers be allowed in front of the Senate because this was the same number allowed the pro-Estrada demonstrators.

‘Rich,’ ‘poor’

At around 2:45 p.m., the second batch of marchers were allowed to follow the first at the side of the Senate.

As if on cue, the pro-Estrada demonstrators claimed that they were being set aside in favor of the rich when the two batches, or about 1,000 marchers, led by Aquino and de Castro were allowed in.

"It’s not because a general (De Villa) is negotiating for them to come in, the police will already allow them in. It’s not because they’re rich--Cory, Noli and the people from Makati--and we’re poor, that we will just be shunted aside," Rey Guillermo, chair of the pro-Estrada group Kasambayan, told Aglipay in Taglish.

The 500 pro-Arroyo demonstrators occupied the space between the front yard of the Senate and the parking lot.

About 80 policewomen bearing shields were tapped to bar the marchers in front of the Senate. But 180 policemen were also there as backup.

When negotiations were almost over and Senate Secretary General Lutgardo Barbo allowed the marchers to hold a few minutes of prayer in front of the Senate, tension arose again when Senators Franklin Drilon and Teofisto Guingona went outside the building to join the marchers.

Pangasinan Rep. Hernani Braganza also joined the marchers.

The pro-Estrada demonstrators booed the two senators, Aquino and Macapagal and chanted: "Gloria pa rin, Gloria pa rin!"

The Jericho marchers, on the other hand, complained that the pro-Estrada camp pelted them with stones.

Police set up a human shield to separate the two camps.

Noise barrage

For five minutes, the Jericho marchers held a noise barrage and blew on rams’ horns. They also recited special petitions for the senators to "see the truth."

Heated negotiations then ensued when Lina insisted that the marchers be allowed to go around the Senate and exit at the back.

Police blocked their way and directed them to the parking lot.

When Aglipay saw a space in the barricade that would allow at least three people to pass through, he collared a policeman and dragged him to the space.

The policeman was stunned.

At 4 p.m., former housing chief Karina Constantino-David demanded from police negotiators why they were not being allowed to get past the barricade.

She was given the cold shoulder.

David and her husband, University of the Philippines professor Randy David, were with a group waiting at the Film Center.

"Only one percent of the 80,000 people were held up here," Randy David said. "If we were allowed to join the first two waves, by this time the Jericho March would have been over."

But around 5 p.m., even before the last of the batches of the Jericho marchers were allowed in front of the Senate, the police let in the rest of the pro-Estrada group.

This group occupied the Senate grounds, making the last of the 5,000 marchers belonging to Bayan and KMU wait up to 7 p.m. at the Film Center.

The Bayan-KMU delegation decided to proceed to the Penguin Cafe in Malate, where an anti-Estrada concert will be held.

Most of the marchers stayed at the adjacent lot of the El Shaddai grounds to hold a vigil. A Mass is to be celebrated at dawn today.

IMPEACHED

November 14, 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 as several hundreds of pro-and anti-Arroyo demonstrators protested outside the Batasang Pambansa Building.

Without missing a beat, de Venecia 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.

Stunned pro-administration lawmakers, who were geared up for a heated debate, were unable to stop Villar. An attempt by Northern Samar Rep. Harlin Abayon to question de Venecia’s action was drowned by cheers from people in the gallery.

"It’s official now that the Impeachment rap is with the Senate," de Venecia said. "It’s now up to the Senate to start the trial. We have indicted the President."

In the Impeachment complaint, the President is accused of bribery, graft and corrupt practices, betrayal of public trust and culpable violation of the Constitution.

The complaint was filed on Oct. 18 after Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis "Chavit’ Singson accused the President of accepting more than P500 million in "jueteng" payoffs and tobacco tax kickbacks.

The Senate received the Articles of Impeachment last night.

Newly elected Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile said the Impeachment trial could be finished before Dec. 31 if the trial begins on Dec. 1.

Pimentel said the whole month of November could be used in approving the Impeachment trial rules.

He said the Senate will discuss the proposed Impeachment trial rules today.

After reading the order to transmit the Impeachment complaint to the Senate, Villar adjourned the session at 4:10 p.m., less than 10 minutes after the session started.

Heroic act

"It’s a great heroic act that Manny Villar did," said Vice President Noli de Castro, leader of the United Opposition that has called on Mrs. Macapagal-Arroyo’s to step down.

The Vice President said she did not expect the House approval of the Impeachment complaint to be "as dramatic as that."

Militant groups also praised Villar and other legislators who signed the Impeachment complaint.

"Finally, Congress stood for what is right and good for the country. We are glad that at this juncture, the representatives were able to rise above their selfish interests and listened to the people’s clamor to remove . . . (the) President from power," the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan said in a statement.

Opposition congressmen prayed and lit candles near a Philippine flag before walking into the House chamber. They wore peach-colored ribbons on their shirts signifying their struggle to "impeach" Mr. Estrada.

No vote was held by the full House on an Impeachment declaration, although one had been expected.

Villar said no vote was necessary because more than the required one-third of the House’s members had signed a petition endorsing the President’s Impeachment.

A total of 77 representatives of the 218-member House signed the Impeachment complaint, or more than the 73 signatures needed to bring the articles of Impeachment to the Senate.

Asked why there was no vote, he said that they already had 77 verified signatures. "It’s not necessary and it was just a notification," he said during the break. But a total of 115 legislators said they supported the Impeachment complaint.

Opposition Rep. Heherson Alvarez, a sponsor of the Impeachment complaint, said a vote on an Impeachment resolution would have delayed the process.

"What’s important is we have notified the Senate that President Estrada is impeached," he said. "The only thing lacking is the trial and judgment for him."

Overwhelmed

Manila Rep. Rosenda Ann Ocampo said administration lawmakers were apparently overwhelmed by the very emotional response of the people in the gallery who cheered, stood and clapped as Villar read his endorsement speech.

She said her colleagues probably had second thoughts about questioning Villar’s move "when you have a crowd like this ready for blood."

But other administration lawmakers warned Villar that the Impeachment complaint he transmitted to the Senate could be questioned because he did not follow the rules of the House.

Prayer

Isabela Rep. Rodolfo Albano III said Villar in fact transmitted a prayer, which he read after opening the session yesterday afternoon.

"He was reading a prayer. He did not say amen after the prayer. He just made us sit down and began telling us that he is elevating the Impeachment complaint to the Senate," Albano said in Filipino.

"A prayer cannot constitute the Articles of Impeachment. Will the Senate now accept a prayer in lieu of a resolution?" Albano asked.

Ocampo pointed out that after the prayer was read on the floor, a roll call should have followed.

But she said Villar did not call the roll. After reading the lengthy prayer, he asked the people in the session hall to sit down.

Congressman Abayon of Samar, sensing that Villar was no longer reading a prayer but was actually endorsing the Impeachment complaint, attempted to question the Speaker but was loudly booed by people in the gallery.

Members of nongovernment organizations, which gathered at the gallery, also began chanting "Erap Resign," effectively drowning Villar’s voice as he read a speech endorsing the complaint to the Senate.

"Abayon was trying to raise a point of order but under the rules, you cannot raise a point of order during a prayer," Albano said.

Prior to the session, North Cotabato Rep. Anthony Dequiña said Villar had a talk with lawmakers opposing his leadership, apparently to strike a deal with them not to call for his ouster before the Impeachment complaint is approved on the floor.

Dequiña said Villar had asked that he be allowed to preside during the singing of the national anthem and to read the prayer.

"Ang ganda ng usapan namin (We had a nice talk). He said ‘let me just open the session. After the anthem and the prayer, I will call for a recess and we will talk,’" a fuming Dequiña told reporters after Villar suspended the session.

Dequiña said Villar offered that bargain because he had learned that lawmakers calling for his ouster were to present another resolution showing him that majority of the House members no longer supported him.

"Now he suspended the session after single-handedly elevating the Impeachment to the Senate. Where is he now? Do you think he will still return after this riot he has caused," Dequiña said in Filipino.

Asked if his move was valid, Villar said: "We follow the Constitution. The Constitution is the highest law of the land."

Administration lawmakers planned to replace de Venecia with Davao City 1st District Rep. Prospero C. Nograles had they succeeded in calling for a reorganization of the House following the approval of the Impeachment complaint.

Fuentebella’s family arrived at the session hall in formal clothes, apparently expecting that he would be sworn in as the new Speaker.

Correct move

In Davao City, Carlos Isagani Zarate, vice president of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP)-Davao City, said Villar and other anti-Estrada lawmakers did the wise and correct move.

"It was a saving grace of the House which in the past had been regarded as the bastion of the trapos (traditional politicians)," Zarate said.

Alvin Luque, Bayan-Davao City secretary general, hailed Villar and the anti-Estrada legislators as "heroes."

Joji Ilagan-Bian, chair of the Mindanao Business Council (MBC), said the business community fully supported what Villar did. With reports Juliet L. Javellana in Manila; and Jowel F. Canuday, PDI Mindanao Bureau

IMPEACHMENT

Under the context of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, to impeach means "to charge." Therefore, President Estrada has already been impeached by Congress but it is up to the Senate to determine whether or not he should be dismissed from office. Arroyo is the first Philippine president to be impeached. Congress had previously tried to impeach three Filipino presidents: Elpidio Quirino in 1949, Diosdado Macapagal in 1963 and Ferdinand Marcos in 1986. All three attempts failed. Congress could not get the required number of votes to even get to first base.

The House of Representatives has the exclusive power to impeach public officials, and the Senate alone can conduct the actual trial. Initiating an impeachment complaint requires the filing of a sworn resolution of at least 73, or one-third of all congressmen. On Nov. 13, 2006, 115 congressmen signed the impeachment resolution. The President cannot be removed from office unless at least 15 senators, or two-thirds of the Senate membership of 22, vote against him.

Villar to bolt with 20 solons

By Cathy C. Yamsuan, Blanche S. Rivera, and Martin P. Marfil (Inquirer News Service)
SPEAKER Jose de Venecia and 20 members of the House of Representatives are set to announce that they are bolting President Arroyo's ruling Lapian ng Masang Pilipino (LAMP) coalition amid mounting calls for the President to step down.
A highly placed source in Malacañang said de Venecia had already sent word to the President about his decision. At press time, Villar reportedly was in Tagaytay taking a spiritual retreat.
Villar is expected to make the announcement this afternoon at the House.

But Deputy Majority Leader Neptali Gonzales Jr., Batangas Rep. Oscar Gozos, Quezon City Rep. Dante Liban and Davao City Rep. Prospero Nograles could no longer wait for Villar.

The four legislators announced yesterday that they were leaving LAMP.

In the Senate, sources said Senate President Manny Villar would also leave the ruling coalition, but he was still in Hong Kong and could not be contacted for comment.

He will reportedly make an important announcement upon his arrival this morning. Local government officials are also quitting the ruling coalition.

Last night, Davao City Mayor Rudy Duterte, president of the Confederation of Mindanao Governors and Mayors, announced his resignation from LAMP.

De Guzman said he decided to leave LAMP following the resignation of Trade Secretary Peter G. Favila.

More are leaving
Joining the mounting calls for the President Macapagal-Arroyo's resignation, Gonzales of Mandaluyong City said "there will be more" of his colleagues who will abandon the beleaguered Chief Executive.

He refused to name names but he said the number was "definitely in the double digit."

He said he would use his influence to encourage others to "heed the call of the people" for the President to step down.

Gonzales said he was "sure" that his colleagues, including de Venecia, were "examining their conscience" amid the worst economic crisis under the 28-month old administration and "public outrage' over allegations that the President received more than P500 million in "jueteng" money and kickbacks from tobacco taxes.

An investigative team reported that the President had also acquired P1-billion worth of prime property for his mistresses through dummy corporations.

"He has crossed the line which the people, recognizing the frailties of men, generously tolerate," Gonzales said in a press conference at the Wack Wack subdivision in Mandaluyong, where the President is said to own several mansions.

"(President Arroyo) must cut, and he must cut clean as soon as possible," Gonzales said.

"The effect of this experience will be felt early next year, and by then, any political solution will be too late," he said.

He vowed to sign the impeachment complaint against the President.

Gonzales said he would not accept any offers for him to preside over the hearings on the impeachment raps.

He said he would instead join the Nov. 4 rally to be led by former President Corazon Aquino and Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales.

"I derive strength and inspiration in making this crucial decision from the thoughts expressed by my father," said the son of former Senate president Neptali Gonzales, "that in the end democracy will prevail and the Filipino people will be able. . . to bring back peace, prosperity and decency to our land."

With his resignation from the coalition, Gonzales gave up his positions as House deputy majority leader and senior vice chair of the committee on justice, which is handling the impeachment case.

Claro M. Recto
Recto said he would also endorse the impeachment complaint.

He said he was leaving LAMP not only because of the economic crisis but also because of his late grandfather Claro Recto, a nationalist senator.

"Don Claro would turn in his grave if I did otherwise," Recto said in a statement.

The Batangas congressman said he expected "several key leaders from Southern Luzon" to bolt LAMP and join the pro-impeachment camp.

Recto disclosed that he had been urging the Villar bloc to leave LAMP.

In a statement, Liban appealed to other members of the House to resign from LAMP.

"I now appeal to my colleagues in Congress to answer the patriotic call to put the nation's interest and the people's welfare far above partisan, parochial and selfish concerns," he said.

Liban said he decided to leave LAMP and to endorse the impeachment complaint "after much deliberation and discernment."

He said the country's poor performance was due to the President's conduct. "It is a failing born out of character. And character includes an innate sense of what is right and wrong even when the public is not looking," he said.

Honorable thing
In a letter dated Oct. 31 to Mrs. Arroyo, Nograles said his resignation was the "most honorable thing" to do because he decided to sign the impeachment complaint.

"I am sad to lose the good friendship of the President, but I'm happy that I am able to follow the dictates of my conscience," Duterte said.

He told the President that he was leaving LAMP because of his "duty and mandate to perform in accordance with my oath of office."

Duterte's letter was released only last night.

Unlike Duterte, Mayor De Guzman had openly supported the President. Last week, he was among the Mindanao governors and mayors who expressed their support for Mr. Estrada.

De Guzman said he would support groups campaigning for the President's ouster.

In Iloilo City, the chair of Laban ng Makabayang Masang Pilipino (LAMMP), the precursor of LAMP, has given up his membership with the ruling party.

Former Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas sent his resignation letter, dated Oct. 31, to Mr. Estrada through Senate President Franklin Drilon, LAMMP chair in Western Visayas.

In his letter, Treñas said he left LAMP after listening to "the sentiments of our people and the sings of the times and after deep and serious discernment."

"Our country is faced with one of the gravest political crises of our times. There are allegations of corruption in the highest office of the land. Our country cannot survive unless confidence is brought back to our political leaders and the political institutions," he wrote the President.

While he admitted that the President was "not expected to voluntarily resign," Gonzales said the Constitution had provided people with ways to exercise their right to "force (President Arroyo's) resignation" through mass demonstrations and acts of civil disobedience.

"The police and military must recognize and respect this in the face of their public pronouncement to protect the President from being ousted except through constitutional process," he said.
With reports from Nereo C. Lujan, PDI Visayas Bureau; Carolyn O. Arguillas and Ayan C. Mellejor, PDI Mindanao Bureau