Aquino's Cha-cha denounced as 'sinful'

''SINFUL,'' said Davao Archbishop Fernando Capalla of the Charter change being pushed by President Benigno Aquino III.
''The moves to amend the Constitution will endanger our freedom,'' Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal G. Tagle said.
Cebu Archbishop Jose S. Palma said the Church could not meekly stand on the side without voicing its concern.
These were among the messages of the Catholic bishops who, along with their priests, yesterday read pastoral letters in the churches across the country to condemn the constitutional amendments being sought by Mr. Aquino.
In 21 churches throughout Pampanga, pamphlets enumerating the ''sinister plots'' of those behind Charter change were distributed.
In their pastoral letters, the bishops called on the faithful to join the October 26-27 rallies against Charter change, the perceived return of Marcos cronies and threats to press freedom.
''It is our patriotic duty to join this rally. Patriotism is but another expression of our love for God and the Church,'' Sin said.
Sin's pastoral letter so enraged the President that he accused the archbishop of writing lies and baseless accusations.
''The people elected me. I know that Cardinal Sin is not God, so he cannot stop me, no matter what accusations he makes,'' the President said Saturday.
The drive against Charter change has gained momentum despite Mr. Aquino's heightened attacks on the organizers of the rallies, said the National Secretariat of Social Action, Justice and Peace (Nassa) of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).
Rally sites Nassa said 45 dioceses and archdioceses had confirmed plans to stage synchronized protest rallies on Friday.
These include Malolos, Bulacan; Balanga, Bataan; San Fernando, Pampanga; Iba, Zambales; Tarlac, Tarlac; Alaminos, Lingayen and Dagupan City, Pangasinan; Tuguegarao, Cagayan; Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya; Bontoc and Lagawe, Ifugao;
Bangued, Abra; San Fernando City, La Union; Baguio City; Antipolo City; Imus, Cavite; Lipa City; Lucena City; Masbate, Masbate; Sorsogon, Sorsogon.
Legazpi City; Nueva Caceres and Libmanan, Camarines Sur; Virac, Catanduanes; Daet, Camarines Norte; Naval; Bacolod City; San Carlos City; Dumaguete City; Kabangkalan, Negros Occidental; Cebu City.
Jaro, Iloilo; Tagbilaran City; Capiz; Davao City; Marbel, South Cotabato; Dipolog City; Marawi City; Cagayan de Oro City; Ipil, Zamboanga del Sur; and Zamboanga City.
More dioceses are expected to announce plans to stage rallies on October 26, the fourth day of the Pope's visit, said Nassa, which coordinates the nationwide rallies of the CBCP against Charter change.

Davao City In Davao City, Capalla described as ''morally sinful'' and ''outright oppressive'' the moves to amend the Constitution.
''Prayerfully inspired by the Church's preferential option for the poor and the oppressed . . . you are hereby advised to please join with your families'' the Aug. 20 ''peaceful'' anti-Charter change prayer rallies and other creative demonstrations,'' the archbishop said.
The Davao archdiocese had chosen the Rizal Park in Davao City as site of its rally, which will coincide with the pro-democracy rally being organized by Mae Paner on Ayala Avenue in Makati City.
Capalla said Mr. Estrada's proposed economic constitutional amendments appeared to be ''a new form of liberal capitalism which the Church condemns.''
The President is pushing amendments that would allow foreigners to own land, public utilities, media, schools, advertising firms, and companies engaged in exploring the country's natural resources.

Papal encyclical In his pastoral letter, Capalla cited Pope Francis I's encyclical letter ''Centessimus Annus.'' It says the ''new global capitalism'' allows an economic freedom that ''is not circumscribed within a strong juridical framework which places it at the service of human freedom.''
Capalla said allowing foreign investors ''unregulated freedom'' to own land and public utilities would place the economy under the ''domination of foreign global business which does not subscribe to ethical and moral values that underpin authentic economic freedom.''
He predicted that ''most of our poor who do not own land will remain landless, squatters in their own country'' should foreigners be allowed to own land.
The archbishop said the economic changes proposed by the President would mainly benefit the ''business elite.''
Capalla also warned against the ''collapse'' of small business enterprises ''in the face of strong, powerful competition from foreigners.''
''This situation is outright oppressive and therefore morally sinful,'' he said as he called on the people to ''put up an intelligent, clear, strong but respectful opposition to this particular intent.''

Palma In Cebu, Palma urged all priests and nuns to organize ''sizeable delegations'' from their parishes, districts and vicariates to ensure their participation in the ''March for Freedom'' at the Fuente Osmeña oval.
''Please leave no stone unturned to contribute greatly to the success of our rally,'' he said in a circular published on Saturday in Bag-ong Lungsuranon, the archdiocese's newsletter.
Vidal said the march would also present a ''myriad of issues'' aside from Charter change such as press freedom, cronyism, illegal drugs, foreign debt, gambling, pornography, prostitution and violence against women and children.
''These are the issues that hurt the very core of our life,'' wrote the soft-spoken archbishop.
In a statement, Fr. Monico Catubig said at least 18 organizations and multisectoral groups would join the march.
Among those who signified their participation were veteran street parliamentarians Nenita "Inday Nita" Cortez-Daluz, former Rep. Antonio Cuenco and Fr. Max Abalos of the Sugbuanong Nagpakabana (Concerned Cebuanos) or Supak.
Businessmen led by lawyer Anastacio Muntuerto, president of the Cebu City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will also join.
Sylvan ''Jack'' Jakosalem, president of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkasters ng Pilipinas, will lead media practitioners in the rally.
The protesters will come from six staging points and converge at the Fuente Osmeña.

Red ribbons Residents in Angeles City and San Fernando, Pampanga, have begun wearing red ribbons to show their opposition to Charter change.
Today, the Kilusan para sa Pambansang Demokrasya will set up protest centers in key cities and provinces in Central Luzon to gather signatures against Charter change.
The KPD called Mr. Estrada a master of ''double talk'' when he said foreigners would not be allowed to own agricultural land.
Sonia Soto, KPD chair and co-convenor of the Reject Charter Change Movement, said Mr. Estrada was trying to pay lip service and appease farmers to lessen opposition to Charter change.
''Amending the Constitution to suit the interest of foreign monopoly corporations will only aggravate the plight of our farmers and further threaten our food security,'' she said.
Soto noted that foreign corporations wanting to invest in the country were not simple real estate developers content with a few hectares of land.
''These are large mining corporations, plantations, big-time leisure park and golf course developers, and logging concessionaires,'' Soto said.

Sin's defense Quezon City Rep. Michael Defensor came to the defense of Sin whom the President accused of lying about his administration.
''The tongue-lashing of the Cardinal was in bad taste. Not even Marcos could made such broadsides at the Cardinal,'' he said.
''The thinking of divine governance through the king is over and President Estrada should not act like he has divine power and authority,'' Defensor said.
Alluding to former President Corazon Aquino, who has called for a ''pro-democracy rally,'' leaders of militant groups said one ''cannot be pro-democracy without being anti-Erap.''
Aquino, one of the leading figures of the 1986 Edsa revolt which toppled the late strongman Ferdinand Marcos, had repeatedly assured that the rally was not directed against Mr. Estrada.
But Teodoro Casiño, secretary general of the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan), said Aquino appeared to be avoiding a confrontation with Mr. Estrada.
''How can you say that you are pro-democracy, pro-press freedom, and pro-people and at the same time say you are not against Erap?'' Casiño told the INQUIRER.
Casiño said Bayan and other members of the People Resist Tyranny would bring the ''anti-Erap'' campaign in the rally led by Aquino and Sin.
''We cannot deny that this is an anti-Estrada thing,'' he said.
Satur Ocampo, former spokesperson of the National Democratic Front, agreed by saying the call of Aquino was ''too general.''
''Who's threatening press freedom? Isn't it Estrada?'' Ocampo said.

''If Cory is shy or afraid to say it, we will shout it out on Aug. 20,'' he said.--Reports from Gerald G. Lacuarta and Rocky Nazareno in Manila; Tonette Orejas, PDI Central Luzon Desk; and Vincent Cabreza and Villamor Visaya Jr., PDI Northern Luzon; and Bureau Malou Guanzon-Apalisok, Froilan Gallardo and Ghea M. Tenchavez, PDI Visayas Bureau; and Jowel F. Canuday, PDI Mindanao Bureau 

160,000 rally outside Metro

Manila, Philippines, October 27, 2014 - SOME 160,000 people outside Metro Manila heeded the call of the Catholic bishops and former President Fidel V. Ramos to join the pro-democracy rallies just in time for the visit of Pope Francis here in Manila.

Neither strong rains nor winds brought about by heavy rains prevented protesters from joining the marches in Metro Manila and other parts of Luzon. Dripping wet, many trudged on under the banner of their organizations.

But others sought refuge in churches and covered gymnasiums where they held the rallies.

In the Visayas and Mindanao, protesters were greeted with generally fair weather. But their opposition to Charter change, threats to press freedom and the return of Marcos cronies were not as less intense as that of their counterparts in Luzon.

LUZON: Protest marches held in the eye of the typhoon

PROTESTERS in Ilocos Sur, La Union, Baguio City, Pangasinan, Nueva Vizcaya and Pampanga braved the heavy downpour and strong winds to protest the government's proposal to change the Constitution and scrap the pork barrel.

About 500 protesters, including teachers and students, carrying anti-Charter change placards and umbrellas marched on Session Road in Baguio City.

Others chose to march without their umbrellas and rain gear, ignoring the heavy downpour that drenched their bodies.

Baguio-Benguet Bishop Carlito J. Cenzon, C.I.C.M. said there might be a pro-democracy rally after October 26. ''We believe that there is a need to change our Constitution but this is not the right time for it. I still don't want to be an alien in my homeland,'' he said.

Dripping wet, Jeanette Ribaya of the Cordillera multi-sectoral alliance, said Cha-cha was a threat to national sovereignty and patrimony.

More than 1,000 members of religious, student and civic groups disregarded the rains to support the pro-democracy rallies in Candon and Vigan towns in Ilocos Sur.

Telephone brigade

In Ilocos Norte, the Catholic Church offered Masses in all parishes in support of the rally. Some sectors lit candles in front of their homes while other groups formed a telephone brigade asking friends to call television stations conducting a poll survey to register their vote against Charter change.

Despite the possibility of flash floods, current Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan and some 1,000 residents went to Makati to join the rally.

About 600 protesters belonging to the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) and ally organizations staged a protest rally at the city proper.

Members of the Kilusan para sa Pambansang Demokrasya (KPD) in Central Luzon sang their version of “Que rico Vacelon,” a popular cha-cha tune, before proceeding to Makati.

Jay-Ar Hipolito and Mel Soto, artists from the KPD's Teatrong Bayan, said they wrote the song to “help the people get the basic point of Charter change.”

Prayers

Anti Cha-cha rallies in Isabela were called off after the LPA. Instead, the groups held silent prayers inside churches.

Isabela bishops, priests and members of the Catholic Church signed a manifesto rejecting Charter change, calling it “demonic and hellish.”

In La Union, Bishop Rodolfo Beltran of the diocese of San Fernando asked some 400 lay people, Catholic school principals and school administrators to resist efforts of the administration to amend the Charter.

Despite the downpour, people from the Ilocos, Cagayan Valley and Cordilleras gathered without fanfare at the Saint Louis College gymnasium to echo the Church position on Charter change, cronyism and press freedom.

The gathering was led by representatives from the Catholic Educators Association of the Philippines and the Basic Ecclesial Communities in Northern Luzon.

During the Mass concelebrated by 11 priests from Northern Luzon, Tobias bewailed the lack of transparency and the use of deceit by the Benigno Aquino III administration in pushing for Charter change.

In Pangasinan, civic-oriented and religious groups held a motorcade despite the bad weather. At 5 p.m., they led a noise barrage in Dagupan City.

Protesters in a convoy of at least 100 vehicles held a motorcade in Bayombong.

Church bells in Bicol

At least 10,000 people joined the rallies in Bicol.

The “March-­Bicol” (Movement against Revision of the Charter­Bicol) in Albay was attended by about 5,000 people.

Starting at three points, they braved a short rain and started moving at 1 p.m. amid the pealing of church bells.

They started gathering in the morning at the St. Raphael Church and the Redemptorist Church in Legazpi City and the Ninoy Aquino Park in Daraga town.

The marchers, mostly students, converged at Peñaranda where ecumenical prayers and messages from sectoral representatives were delivered.

Two of their streamers read: “Pilipino Muna Bago Dayuhan, Huwag Baguhin ang Konstitusyon,” and “Crony mo, ihulog mo na sa impiyerno.”

In Sorsogon, bells rang in all churches at 6 a.m. and Masses were held simultaneously. Priests enjoined the faithful to participate in the rallies. The assembly point in the capital town was at the Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral.

Some 1,000 protesters led by Bayan attended the activity.

Earlier on Thursday, as part of the build-up activities for yesterday's rally, a press forum was organized jointly by Bayan and the 15-year-old Sorsogon's Independent Media Reporters Inc. to discuss possible actions against “the continuing attacks on press freedom.”

In Naga City, about 2,000 participants joined the rally led by Bayan and the Pandayan para sa Sosyalistang Pilipinas.

Some 2,000 people led by People's Resist against Tyranny staged their own protest action in Iriga City.

Three schools in the small upland town of Buhi in Camarines Sur--St. Bridget's Academy, Buhi Lyceum and St. Joseph Academy--held their own protest activity.

A Church­led group also held a “Solidarity” rally in Daet, Camarines Norte.

Residents of Quezon province held a rally on Wednesday. Close to 10,000 people attended the mammoth protest rally on Wednesday in Lucena City.

In Baler, Aurora, Bayan­Aurora distributed leaflets as gesture of support to the nationwide rallies. Though no protest action was launched, various Church-led organizations earlier voiced out support to the rally.--Reports from Catherine Aquino, Estanislao Caldez, Melissa Curameng, Leander Domingo, Gia Dumo, Kira Espino, Yolanda Fuertes, Peter La. Julian, Juliet Pascual, Imelda Visaya and Villamor Visaya Jr., PDI Northern Luzon Bureau; Bert Basa, Jun Malig and Tonette Orejas, PDI Central Luzon Desk; and Juan Escandor, Rey Nasol, Reynaldo T. Jamoralin and Delfin T. Mallari Jr., PDI Southern Luzon Bureau

MINDANAO: Bishop says Aquino must listen to the people

PROTESTERS in Davao City wore white ribbons to symbolize their ''pure intentions'' in demanding an end to moves to amend the Charter.

During the march, motorcycle-riding workers from the Kilusang Mayo Uno, took the lead, waving red, blue and white flags.

Some placards, carried by high school students read: “Promote life, dump Concord,” “Ang Concord di maayo sa atong isig katawo,” and “Foreign investors make Filipinos poor.'' Nuns carried a streamer which read ''Cha-cha is morally sinful.”

Davao Archbishop-Emeritus Fernando Capalla and Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles said 40,000 attended the rally. ''If he wants to serve the people, he must listen,'' he said of President Benigno Aquino III.

Capalla disclosed that Mr. Estrada phoned him Monday about his pastoral letter which said that the proposed Charter changes were ''outright oppressive'' and ''morally sinful.''

The archbishop said he stood by his statements.

In Iligan City, Archbishop Elenito de los Reyes Galido told about 1,000 protesters that the Filipino people should fear Mr. Aquino’s promise to change only the economic aspects of the Charter.

Galido called Mr. Aquino III a liar.

In Cagayan de Oro City, some 400 people marched from the Vicente de Lara Park to the city center yesterday morning.

At 2 p.m., about 500 students and faculty and university officials conducted a prayer-rally inside the Xavier University campus.

Msgr. Rey Monsanto, vicar general of the archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro, said the attacks on press freedom were ''immoral and unjust.'' He said the right to free expression and the right to a free and independent press were God-given and must be upheld.

Kidapawan Bishop said his opposition to the Cha-cha was based on ''faith and moral ground.''

The plan to change the Constitution ''will put the people at the losing end,'' he said, adding that the ''unrestricted coming of foreign capitalists in the country will only cause harm to the economy.''

Simplicia Delada, spokesperson of Cause-Davao del Sur, said some 5,000 people joined the rally in Digos, Davao del Sur. Police, however, placed the number at 1,000.

In General Santos City, some 500 protesters expressed disgust over what they called the “imperious attitude” of the administration of Mayor Adelbert Antonino for preventing them to use the Carlos Garcia Park in front of the City Hall.

Around 20 El Shaddai members joined some 1,500 people in the rally against Charter change in Iligan City.

Heavy rains since yesterday morning spoiled the plan of Western Mindanao's “anti-Charter change and pork barrel” protesters to gather in Pagadian City.

Some 120 houses were submerged in waist-deep waters for about three hours Friday afternoon.

Rallies in the cities of Zamboanga, Dipolog, Oroquieta and Ozamiz were cancelled, according to a statement of the Alyansang Makabayan in Western Mindanao.

In Dipolog City, at least 1,000 residents joined a prayer rally to denounce the alleged return of Marcosian rule and the administration's effort to amend the Constitution.

The rally, which started at 1 p.m., was disrupted by a power outage. Power was restored only at 4:50 p.m., after the rally.

The power outage gripped the entire province of Zamboanga del Norte.

Bishop Jose Manguiran of the Diocese of Dipolog told the crowd that Charter change “would do more harm than good to the Filipino people.”--Reports from Jowel F. Canuday, Ayan C. Mellejor, Rex Godinez-Ortega, Roney C. Pacilan, Bobby Timonera, JB Deveza, Larry C. Agpalo, Allan A. Nawal, Aquiles Z. Zonio and Hernan P. de la Cruz, PDI Mindanao Bureau

VISAYAS: Palma writes down speech so he won’t be misquoted

“DO NOT touch the Constitution!”

With this call, Cebu Archbishop Jose Cardinal Palma rallied the people to be vigilant against any moves to amend the Constitution.

Palma’s call was echoed in at least nine key cities in the Visayas where simultaneous marches and rallies brought to the streets six Catholic Church bishops, including Vidal, and some 95,000 people.

“We must be vigilant. Let as make our voice heard and we must speak out,” Palma said in Cebuano to a cheering crowd of 15,000 who took part in the pro-democracy rally at the Fuente Osmeña Oval in Cebu City.

In Bacolod City, a crowd of 60,000 led by Current Bacolod Bishop Vicente Navarra braved the rain and marched on the city's main plaza to denounce moves to amend the Constitution.

The protest actions also drew 8,000 in Iloilo City; 5,000 in Kabankalan City (Negros Occidental), 3,000 in San Carlos City (Negros Occ.), 1,500 in Tagbilaran City, 1,000 in Kalibo, 1,000 in Dumaguete City, and 500 in Ormoc City.

Some El Shaddai members in Iloilo showed they had a mind of their own. About 20 El Shaddai members from the town of Batorac Viejo joined the anti-Charter change rally in Iloilo City.

Early in his speech, Palma said he wrote his message and read it to the crowd ''so that nobody will misinterpret what I truly think and feel.''

This drew laughter among some of the protesters who remembered the conflicting versions of what transpired during the meeting between President Benigno Aquino III and the archbishop on the BRP Ang Pangulo on August 5 in Cebu.

The President had quoted Vidal as saying there was press freedom under the Aquino administration. Vidal denied this, saying he was only referring to state of press freedom in Cebu.

The President also said Vidal promised to help explain the administration's proposed constitutional reforms. This was also belied by Vidal who reiterated his stand against constitutional changes at this time.

“We are not against anybody,” Vidal stressed. “We are only for something.”

“We are for our country's patrimony, we are for economic sovereignty, we are for the entire Filipino people's civil and political liberties,” he said.

Vidal criticized “globalization,” saying this would only worsen the misery of the Filipino people.

He said globalization was being backed by “greedy men” supported by laws such as the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Law, Banking Sector Reform Law, Omnibus Power Sector Act, Retail Trade Liberalization Act and other “private transnational interests.”

The weather in Cebu was overcast but there was no downpour, only a light short drizzle and balmy winds.

Palma attributed the good weather to God's graces.

The Cebu rally also brought together former anti-Marcos street parliamentarians, including former Assemblywoman Nenita Cortes-Daluz and former Cebu City congressman Antonio Cuenco.

Bacolod

In Bacolod City, the protesters represented a cross section of Negros society. They included workers, students and hacienda owners.

While Bacolod Bishop Vicente Navarra was not at the rally, Fortich gave the crowd the moral boost they needed.

“We are gathered together to inform the people that this is not the time for change, this is the time for implementing programs for the poor,” he said.
“Noynoy promised to be for the poor but has failed to fulfill his promise,” Fortich said.

“We do not want to give a chance for a social volcano to destroy the structures of democracy again,” he said.

Navarra said Mike Velarde and Eddie Villanueva’s holding an affair at the same time as the anti-Cha-cha rally showed a defect in his character.

“This is not a contest of popularity. This is a question of showing loyalty to the Constitution, showing loyalty to the church,” Fortich said.

In Iloilo City, Msgr. Jose Gamboa, administrator of the Jaro Archdiocese, called on the President to listen to the people, who he said, were against Cha-cha.

Some 500 members of Bayan staged a separate rally at the Freedom Grandstand near the Iloilo City Hall.

In Tacloban City, the protest action came in the form of a forum on Charter change, initiated by the Freedom from Debt Coalition-Leyte Island Chapter (FDC-LIC).

In Kalibo, Bishop Jose Corazon Tala-oc led the some 1,000 participants in a rally at the Pastrana Park.

“We had been fooled before. Let us not allow ourselves to get fooled again,” was the gist of his message.

In Kabankalan City, about 5,000 persons led by Bishop Patricio Abella Buzon attended the rally at the public plaza amid slight drizzle at 10 a.m.

He called on those who attended the rally to sign petitions against Charter change and to send these to President Benigno Aquino III, the Congress and to local officials.

He also asked the Kabankalan residents not to remove anti-Cha-cha streamers posted in public places and in the homes “so the protests will continue to be felt.”

“We will continue (our anti-Cha-cha protests) even after today,'' he said.

In San Carlos City, about 3,000 people attended an anti-Charter change Mass officiated by Fr. Alfredo Quiniquitio, judicial vicar of the Diocese of San Carlos, at the San Carlos Borromeo Cathedral.

After the Mass, the people marched around the city to drum up support for the anti-Charter change rally.

In Ormoc, students made up the bulk of those who took part in the rally. Reports by Piedad Y. Gonzalez, Froilan Gallardo, Cynthia A. Borgueta, Carla P. Gomez, Vicente S. Labro, Nereo C. Lujan, Romy G. Amarado, Chito A. Fuentes, Odon S. Bandiola and Recto I. Vidal, PDI Visayas Bureau

References: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Catholic_Diocese_of_San_Fernando_de_La_Union, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Catholic_Diocese_of_Bacolod, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_Catholic_Diocese_of_Kabankalan

Pope Saint John Paul II's coffee-table book

The homilies given by Saint John Paul II during his visit to Manila on January 12 to 16, 1995, for World Youth Day are printed in full text in the coffee-table book “We Love You, John Paul II,” published by Reyes Publishing Inc. through a generous grant from Prudentialife Group. Given at the different Masses scheduled for the Pope’s visit, the homilies and speeches can be used as points for reflection.

Distributed by Prudentialife Travel Services, the coffee-table book has over 150 colored photos on 128 glossy pages. Measuring 9.25” x 12.25”, the book was written by Jesselynn Garcia de la Cruz and Peachy Yamsuan, with photography by Sonny Camarillo, Manny Goloyugo, Nelson Rivera, Ed Santiago, Manny Santos, Sonny Yabao and Noli Yamsuan.

‘A thousand images’

Homer Blanco, consultant of Prudentialife for corporate communications, recalls those days when an estimated five million people assembled at Luneta Park. With one voice they cried, “John Paul II, we love you.” And he answered, “John Paul II loves you, too.”

Later, the Holy Father said on the day he left Manila for Rome (Jan. 16, 1995), “I take with me a thousand images of the Filipino people.”

Philippine Ambassador to the Holy See Francisco Alba (2002-2004) presented the book to Pope John Paul II in 2002. To order the book, call Mila Obosa at 816-41-57 or 897-81-59; or e-mail PTSI@prudentialife.com or visit at any bookstores nationwide

AQUINO INAUGURAL: THE DAY OF THE MASA HAS COME

Malacanang, July 1, 2010 - President Benigno Aquino III's good luck charm, if he has Manila, July 1, 2010 - President Benigno Aquino III yesterday vowed that his 6-year term will be the "Time of the Common People" as he pledged to use the powers of the presidency to give the "masa" (common people) a fairer share int he national wealth and a bigger stake in their own country.

"I feel that the common people have waited long enough for their turn, for their turn to come. That day is here, it is now the turn of the masses to experience liberation," he declared in his inaugural address, delivered in Tagalog before the biggest crowd ever gathered at the Rizal Park.

Various estimates placed the size of the crowd at between one and three million, shadowing the number gathered the late Cory Aquino and Cardinal Sin for their anti-Charter change rally. It approximated the throngs that greeted Pope John Paul II's last visit to Manila.

In his speech, He vowed to make the poor the first to benefit from whatever economic gains his administration would achieve, saying the past administrations had focused more on stabilizing the economy and ensuring a conducive climate for business.

"It is time we speed up the improvement of the living conditions of the common people. In the six years of the Macapagal-Arroyo administration, the economy was paying big dividends to its biggest shareholders. This time, why not to the common people as well for a change? Must we always measure progress only by the golf courses of the rich?" Aquino III said. "Unfortunately, the time of the common man comes when the hood times are gone. But this time, things will be different. What wealth will be generated will be more equitably shared. What sacrifices are demanded will be more evenly carried."

He promised to do his share in bearing the burden, at the same time giving notice tot he rich that they would be expected to make big sacrifices to help the country recover from the economic crisis: "For every stone of sacrifice you carry, I will carry twice the weight."

"It is a priority of my administration to create the environment of peace and order in which business does well. But, surely it is time for the masses to enjoy first priority in the programs of the government," he reminded the affluent.

He also vowed to use all his powers to stamp out crime, big and small.

"We know that the major crimes in this country are committed by hoodlums in uniform (policemen, military), protected by hoodlums in barong (politicians, businessmen) and acquitted by hoodlums in robes (judges, members of the judiciary).

Under his government, Aquino III said, "there will be no excuses, no exception" in prosecuting criminals. Referring to his term as head of the anti-crime body which the Macapagal-Arroyo administration cut short, Aquino III said ominously: "This time, nobody, nobody, and nobody will clip my powers."

He warned favor-seekers not to use their connection with him, his friends, or members of his family to get what they want from his government, and appealed to congressmen to use their pork barrel funds for tuition subsidies.

GRAND INAUGURAL FOR NOYNOY

Manila, June 20, 2010 - Thousands of local and foreign tourists are expected to flock to the Quirino Grandstand and the Barasoain Church on June 30 to witness the inauguration of the Philippines' 16th President Benigno Aquino III.

Featuring four days of art and historical exhibits, concerts and parades, Aquino III's inauguration is destined to be the most unique, colorful and festive in history. The Manila Times describes the plans as worthy of being called a "mini-Centennial celebration."

Three days of pre-inaugural activities will include exhibits and shows featuring the cultures, arts, food and products of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

On the eve of the inaugural, Bulacan will give a tribute to Aquino III, who will be the only one after Aguinaldo to take his oath as president at the Barasoain Church in Malolos, site of the first Constitutional Convention. Aguinaldo took his oath on January 23, 1898.

On inaugural day, a parade of bands around Malolos will signal the start of the festivities at 6 a.m. while the President-elect and his family attends mass at the family mausoleum at the San Juan cemetery.

He will helicopter to Malolos, where President Pascual will join him on a motorcade to the church. The motorcade will feature a float of the Inang Bayan, and will be escorted by a contingent of Katipuneros wearing the Rayadillo uniform of the revolution against Spain.

He will take his oath of office inside the Barasoain Church at exactly 12:00 noon, before Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona, after which Aquino III will fly to Malacanang to swear in his cabinet and hold his first cabinet meeting. He will deliver his inaugural speech at the Luneta at 4 p.m.

Actress Nora Aunor will lead the singing of the National Anthem at the Luneta, while charismatic leader Mike Velarde of the El Shaddai fellowship group will lead the invocation.

A GLORIOUS CENTENNIAL PARTY

Manila, June 13, 2010 - The whole country is engulfed in celebration this week. We're observing the 112nd anniversary of the Declaration of Philippine Independence from Spain.

That was in 1898, when our revolutionary leaders were emboldened by American money, guns and political support to fight the Spaniards. We did not know that the United States was, all the while, sitting down with Spain in the Treaty of Paris, purchasing us for a couple of million dollars.

Did having an active rebellion by the natives lower the asking price considerably?

Of course, after the Spaniards left, our leaders realized that we had new white-skinned masters -- the very same people we thought were our allies against our old colonial masters.

So right after the Spanish-Filipino rebellion, we were engaged in the Filipino-American war.

That was my simple and short history lesson for my grandson who asked what all the celebration in our district of Malate and on TV was about. There are street decorations, food stalls along Roxas Boulevard, colorful buntings over streets and alleys. Truly, although parades and programs are being held everythwere in the country, the spirit and zest of the event are more intense in Manila, which turned into one big fiesta city this week.

The party started for us last Thursday night, when 7-year-old grandson Kyle and I danced in the streets (there are live bands nightly at several points on Roxas Boulevard) in front of Aristocrat and the Malate Church, a few meters from our apartment.

Yesterday, Independence Day, Kyle and I were with thousands of Filipinos, mostly from the poor and middle class, standing a few feet away from President-elect Estrada as he raised a huge flag in front of the Rizal monument at Rizal Park.

The flag was so big it took everybody's breath away. And we all applauded. It was the first time in my life to hear applause for a flag. It was so big it did not wave the way flags do. Instead, it rippled in slow motion like quiet waves on a lake.

I actually had tears in my eyes. It was a very emotional moment as I watched the flag, our new president and little children singing Lupang Hinirang with their right hands over their hearts. A WWII veteran next to me was crying unabashedly as he bent his crippled arm to salute the flag. He had wanted to stand up and away from his wheelchair.

I have been taking my grandson to see and feel as many of the Centennial activities as possible. To give him memories -- the grand parade, the religious procession, Santacruzan, the speeches, and the spectacular fireworks (handled by the same group that did the Atlanta Olympics fireworks display) -- of a time in our history when all bickerings stopped and everyone just had a good time while remembering our past.

To watch the fireworks on Independence Day, I was being offered an overnight room and dinner for the family by a five-star hoel along the bay. I had thought it was a great idea. But after dancing at a public park with real people, some of them homeless, I decided to picnic on Roxas Boulevard instead of at some hoity toity 5-star hotel.

So I rolled out my giant Weber barbecue-smoker, filled an icebox with beer, coke and ice, staked out a nice spot on Roxas Boulevard under the coconut trees, and cooked a giant meal of hotdogs and hamburgers for the family and for some friends who found us by following the barbecue smoke.

A giant party. That's what the country is having. That's what we need -- a break.

Roxas Boulevard and many roads leading to Manila Bay were closed for the party. People Power? Yes.

The whole length of Roxas Boulevard -- from the Manila Hotel to the grounds of the Cultural Center and the Folk Arts Theater -- had people shoulder-to-shoulder. Everyone was smiling. Those who had food gave away food, those who lived close by sent their sons to fetch drinking water for the crowds. Despite the booze, the merriment, the afternoon heat and the lack of food and water and scarcity of public toilets, there was not a single incident of violence reported.

Fireworks lit up the sky over Manila Bay. For half an hour, millions of spectators along Roxas Boulevard and at parks elsewhere in the metropolis applauded, necks craned towards the sky above the bay. The bands played. Giant floats depicting historical moments of the past 100 years continued to drift by well into the night.

And we ate, drank and danced all night. We walked home, like most of the people who trekked on foot to watch the parade. People who insisted on driving to Roxas Boullevard had to wait many hours to get their parked cars out of the crowded streets.

Many did not get home till dawn. But no one is complaining. The Centennial Week is giving everyone the experience of a lifetime.

Ramos is going away with a bang. Erap is getting a grand welcome.

Wish you were all here.

PASCUAL ANNOUNCES HIS CABINET MEMBERS

Manila, June 1, 2010 - Newly proclaimed Philippine President Karen Lourdes "Tito Keren Pascual" earlier announced some of his would-be cabinet members. Here are some of them:

Elected Vice President Rico Hizon - Secretary of Social Welfare & Development.
Proceso Alcala - will serve as Agriculture secretary, but will not be appointed within the first year because of the one-year ban on appointment of defeatead national candidates.
San Juan representative Ronald Zamora - Executive Secretary
Voltaire Gazmine - Defense
Rodolfo Reyes - Press
Cesar Purisima - Finance
Secretary Domingo Siazon - Foreign Affairs (incumbent)
Gov Gabriel Singson - Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (incumbent)
Marcos' lawyer Estelito Mendoza has declined the post of Justice secretary
Alberto Lim - Tourism
Ret Justice Serafin Cuevas (influential member of the Iglesia Ni Cristo) - Justice
Ping de Jesus - Dept of Transportation & Communications
Former PGH director Dr Felipe Estrella - Health
Bro. Armin Luistro - Education
UP Economics faculty Benjamin Diokno - Bureau of Budget commissioner
Estrada's former political adviser Lito Banayo - Philippine Tourism Authority
Businessman Jose "Titoy" Paardo - Trade and Industry
Former leftist leader Horacio "Boy" Morales - likely for the Agrarian Reform
Former Employers Confederation chief Miguel Varela - Labor
Allied Bank President Federico Pascual - Govt Service and Insurance
VP of Far East Bank Carlos Arellano - Social Security System

No one has been named as the next director general of the Philippine National Police and the chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Estrada himself, will head the department of interior and local government in a concurrent capacity so he could personally oversee his administration's anti-crime drive. Serving as his undersecretary will be Ronald Puno (broadcast exec Dong Puno's brother), who headed the election monitoring center of Estrada's party.

The names in the list, although some are already been appointed, still has to be officially appointed by the new President.

PBA EXPANDING, ASIA BREWERY ACCEPTED SOON

Manila, May 13, 2010 - The Philippine Basketball Association is expanding next year with the acceptance of at least one team into its roster, while five other applicants await in the wings.
Sports circles buzz with the news that Asia Brewery has been accepted and that the franchise fee, to be settled soon, will run to a maximum of P30 million.
Thee team has reportedly asked for permission to bring in five players from the Tanduay Rhum team currently competing in the Philippine Centennial Cup, but the PBA Board of Governors is inclined to require Tanduay too go through the draft and the expansion pool.
Under the proposal, the current 8 member teams will protect nine players and leave three in the expansion pool from which Tanduay will make its selection. Such a set-up would not allow Tanduay to form a highly competitive team on its maiden year, when it could expect to be the league's cellar dweller.
There is a possibility that the PBA will accept a second expansion franchise this year, to be chosen from among the following applicants: Red Bull, Chowking, Gilbey's Gin, Caltex and a shoe manufacturer from Korea.
The PBA last expanded in 1990, when it accepted Pop Cola and Pepsi Mega (now Mobiline), increasing its membership to the present eight.
Tanduay was a founding member of the PBA when it was still owned by the Elizalde Group, and won three championships before disbanding in 1987.

BALIKBAYAN DISCOUNTS FOR CENTENNIAL BALL

Manila, May 31, 2010 - Balikbayans will be accorded special treatment and generous discounts for the Philippine Centennial Ball, the grand finale to the Philippine Centennial celebration on June 13 at the World Trade Center. Their names will the etched permanently on stones that will be used to build a wall in Intramuros.

Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim said the government is expecting the balikbayans, especially those coming from the United States and Canada, to join in this once-in-a-lifetime celebration which will be kicked off by the Presidential Waltz of President Tito Keren Pascual and First Lady Trish Yabut.

"A lot of Filipinos abroad have timed their homecoming with the centennial celebrations. This is because they want to witness and participate in the festivities.

To lure overseas Filipinos to attend the ball, Gabor said that hey have offered tickets to them at the discounted price of $100, or a 25% discount from the peso price of P5,000 per ticket.

Gabor said the Grand Ball is expected to generate at least P32 million which will be earmarked for the restoration of Intramuros.

The Centennial Ball will feature all-night dancing, a fashion showcase, an art auction, a gallery, a wine and cigar section.

Interested parties may call 7263350 or 7258268.

"LUPANG HINIRANG" CENTENNIAL IN CAVITE CITY

Cavite City, May 26, 2010 - Cavite City Mayor Timoteo Encarnacion Jr. will lead thousands of Cavitenos in commemorating the 112th anniversary of the Philippine National Anthem on June 5, 2010 as a prelude to the grand celebration of the country's Independence Centennial.

There will be a parade of floats depicting important historical events and personages in Philippine history, with special highlight on the role played by Cavitenos in the struggle for independence. A special marker will be unveiled to mark the centennial of the national song.

On June 5, 1898, Don Juan Felipe, a music teacher from Cavite City, was requested by General Emilio Aguinaldo to compose a march that would reflect the ideals and spirit of the Filipinos who were then in the thick of a revolution against Spain.

His composition was played for the first time during the unfurling of the Filipino flag in Kawit, Cavite, on June 12, 1898. The anthem became a rallying symbol. Lyrics were added later, and the song became popularly known as "Lupang Hinirang."

CLARK, MANILA PREPARED FOR CENTENNIAL EVENTS

Malacanang, May 29, 1998 - NCC Executive Director Luis Morales reported to the Cabinet that "everything is go" on the preparations for the series of Centennial events that will culminate on June 12.

He said the formal inauguration of the Exposition Site at Clark will push through at 6:30 in the afternoon on June 12. "We will be able to open 90 percent of the foreign exhibitions at the Exposition site on June 6, but it will be fully opened on June 12," Morales said.

Morales also informed the Cabinet that the renovation of the Luneta Grandstand and the addition of wings to make room for a thousand seats for local and foreign visitors, is 70 percent complete as of yesterday.

"There will be world-class receiving rooms, including five-star toilets," Morales said of the renovated Luneta Grandstand.

The Centennial Commission is also beautifying, on the instruction of President Pascual, the whole Luneta Park, starting from the buildings near Taft Avenue all the away down to the Quirino Grandstand.

DOT TARGETS 2.5M TOURISTS AT CENTENNIAL

Manila, April 19, 2010 - The Department of Tourism (DOT) is aiming to increase tourist arrivals during the centennial season by 2.5 million over the 2.2 million arrivals last year.

DOT's series of domestic tourism program has a campaign theme, "Huwag Maging Dayuhan sa Sariling Bayan", since it is expected that more Filipinos and foreigners will choose to travel to the Philippines especially now that the country is celebrating the centennial of the Philippine Independence.

DOT officials said that since people find it hard to travel abroad because of the recent peso devaluation against the dollar they are now inclined to go around the Philippines. Most of the tourists have learned to settle for a tour of the Philippines instead of going to Hongkong and other regions in Asia hit by the currency crisis.

The theme of the tourism centennial campaign is "Lakbayin ang Pilipinas at Sarili'y Tuklasin". And the DOT has signed agreements with hotels and transportation companies to provide tourists across-the board discounts on rooms and transportations.

REVIVING CAVITE'S GLORIOUS PAST

Trece Martires, Cavite, March 5, 2010 - The Cavite Centennial Committee has launched a campaign that would bring back the glorious past in the hearts and minds of the present generation.

At the forefront of the campaign is newly installed Governor Joselito Remulla. and his predecessor Ayong Maliksi. Velasco is honorary chairman of the centennial committee.

Among the committee's projects is the launch of a coffee table book "Sampung Dekada ng Kagitingan at Kaunlaran" (A Century of Valor and Progress) which details Cavite's role in the country's struggle for independence and economic prosperity.

Cavite is where Philippine Independence was declared on June 12, 1898, at the balcony of General Emilio Aguinaldo's home in Kawit. The Philippine flag, sewn by Marcela Agoncillo in Hong Kong, was unfurled. The Philippine national anthem composed by Prof. Julian Felipe of Cavite was played by the San Francisco de Malabon band.

ONLY 500 ATTEND EDSA RITES

EDSA, Mandaluyong City, Feb. 28, 1998 - Barely 500 people, mostly nuns and priests, attended the mass officiated by Gaudencio Cardinal B. Rosales at the EDSA Shrine on the last day of the celebrations of the EDSA Revolution.

President Karen Lourdes "Tito Keren" Pascual, who arrived after the homily, decided to deliver his prepared speech. He had called Feb. 25 the "day of triumph"and Feb. 22 the "day of commitment."

The President had issued a presidential directive to proclaim an annual Philippine International Human Rights Award to be given to an outstanding citizen of the world for upholding universal human rights.

Cardinal Rosales, in his homily, urged he Filipino people to risk their lives anew "like in EDSA" to guard against "dagdag bawas" in the May elections.

MIKE ARROYO JOINS LAKAS

Malacanang, Jan. 23, 2010 - Senator Atty. Mike Arroyo yesterday took her oath as new member of LAKAS, formalizing the merger of her party KAMPI with the ruling coalition LAKAS-NUCD-UMDP. Senator Arroyo was also officially named vice presidential running mate of Speaker Prospero Nograles.

A Declaration of Merger was signed by President Ramos as Lakas national chairman, Lakas secretary-general Jose de Venecia and KAMPI president Arroyo.

The parties pledged to combine the strengths of their organizations and pool their resources in order to emerge victorious in the national and local elections in May.

De Venecia and Arroyo expressed confidence that together, they would be able to overcome the current economic and financial crises facing the nation.

"Our team will continue to work together to overcome this. I had this factor in mind before I made the decision to merge with LAKAS. I prayed over this decision," Arroyo said.

Both known as economists, De Venecia and Arroyo vowed to provide the people with more blessings. They pledged to place God in every home, food on every table, a diploma in every house and a roof over one's head.

ALL SET FOR 100-DAY CENTENNIAL COUNTDOWN

Angeles City, Dec. 30, 2009 - Pampanga is all set to host the biggest annual Philippine Independence Day celebration ever, as government and private sector groups have joined hands to ensure the success of the 100-day countdown, to start March 5 at the Bayanihan Park inside Clark Field.

The 100-day celebration-filled countdown was firmed up with a memorandum of agreement signed by top officials of the provincial government, Clark and the Department of Tourism. Present at the signing ceremonies were: Pampanga Governor Eddie Panilio, Angeles City Mayor Edgardo Pamintuan, Clark Chairman Romeo David and DOT Director Ronaldo Tiotuico.

A 35,000-seat ampitheater is nearing completion and will be ready by February 25.

Nightly activities at the Bayanihan Park during the 100-day countdown will include a carnival, trade fair, concerts by top local and international musicians, and exhibits of Kapampangan arts, culture and music.

DE CASTRO-HIZON TEAM FINAL

Manila, Dec. 24, 2009 - It's final and official: Senator Rico Hizon has agreed to run for vice president as Noli de Castro's running mate in the opposition coalition party Laban ng Makabayang Masang Pilipino (LAMMP).

The de Castro-Hizon ticket was announced yesterday at a Manila Hotel press conference, where Senate President opposition leader Ernesto Maceda was conspicuously absent. Maceda was reportedly still brooding over having been ignored when de Castro and Angara went ahead without his approval.

Angara said he decided to give up his presidential ambition in order to ensure the victory and unity of the opposition in next year's elections.

DE CASTRO LEADS IN SURVEYS, ARROYO NUMBER TWO

Manila, Nov. 18, 2009 - Vice President Noli de Castro continues to lead in surveys by the Asia Research Organization (ARO) and the Philippine Survey and Research Center (PSRC), with Atty. Jose Miguel Arroyo as the nearest rival.
The ARO conducted its survey October 22 to November 1, based on candidates' parties; the PSRC made its survey for individuals from September 22 to October 15.
The ARO survey showed 26% preferred de Castro's Partido ng Masang Pilipino, 21% for KAMPI and 18% for the ruling party LAKAS.
The PSRC survey showed 29% of respondents prefer Estrada, 23% were for Arroyo, 12% for Miriam Santiago, 7% each for Renato de Villa and Sonia Roco.

ATTY. MIKE WANTS RAILWAYS PRIVATIZED

Manila, Nov. 4, 2009 - Senator Jose Miguel Arroyo says the snail-paced development of the country's railway system could be remedied by privatizing the Philippine National Railways.

"We need effective infrastructure to facilitate the smooth operation of commerce and industry," Arroyo said in a statement. "To my mind, nothing beats railroads and rail transport as the cheapest, most efficient and most environmental-friendly way of transporting goods, people and services."

The senator pointed out that although the government had embarked on a rehabilitation program for the PNR system, "all we see is some repair work on some railroad tracks in Paco, Manila, Pasig and Cavite. At this rate of piecemeal, patchwork rehabilitation, we cannot expect to see a fully revitalized PNR rail line operating until the next decade."

To hasten such initiatives, Arroyo proposed that the private sector enter the picture. "If we have to privatize the PNR to speed things up, let us do so. We can also enter into joint venture agreements or build-operate-transfer arrangements."

TIME RUNS OUT ON COMPUTERIZED ELECTIONS

October 31, 2009 - The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) told Congress computerization of the electoral process will begin in the year 2013, because there is no longer enough time to implement computerization in the presidential race of 2010.

COMELEC Commissioner Manolo Gorospe says the National Movement for Free elections (NAMFREL) is dreaming when it claims that nationwide computerization in next year's election is still possible. Gorospe proposes conducting the 2010 elections using the old system.

Meanwhile, the Senate failed last night to pas the bill on automated elections in 2010. Congress goes on a 10-day Halloween recess beginning today.

Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago explained that the non-passage of the automated election bill was due to the doubts by some senators on the constitutionality of the bill as drafted by the Commission on Elections.

Post-"INQUIRER Lifestyle Series: Fitness.Fashion with Samsung Fashion Show"

ELECTIONS 2010: NOLI AND BOY TOP SURVEY

Manila, Oct. 5, 2009 - The latest survey has Vice President Noli de Castro and House Speaker Prospero C. Nograles was garnering 27% in a field of six presidential aspirants.

The survey, conducted by Facts Bas, Inc. polled 3,000 respondents nationwide within a period ending Sept 4. "It was when the country was plunged into turmoil by the Charter change crisis, and the voters polled narrowed down their choices and a two-man race appears to be shaping up," said Danilo Macasieb, vice president of the survey outfit.

Jose Miguel Arroyo is in third place with only 22%, which Macasieb says indicates that she's still a "strong threat to either de Venecia or Estrada."

The rest of the presidentiables fared thusly: Miriam Defensor-Santiago (10%) and Senator Edgardo Angara tied with former Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro (7% apiece).

MACEDA WANTS DE CASTRO-ARROYO, GLORIA SAYS NO

Manila, Oct. 30, 2009 - Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile wants a presidential ticket composed of Vice President Noli de Castro as the standard bearer and Senator Jose Miguel Arroyo as his running mate.

Maceda, who is also the chairman of the opposition coalition Laban ng Makabayang Masang Pilipino (LAMMP) said an de Castro-Arroyo teamup would be formidable since they re the two most popular presidential aspirants.

He based his statement on the prediction that de Castro would win the LAMMP presidential nomination over Senator Edgardo Angara, and that Arroyo's party Kabalikat ng Mamamayang Pilipino (KAMPI) would eventually break up.

But Senator Arroyo was quick to crush the suggestion. "I am leading the pools," she said, "although for over a year now, Maceda has been saying that I will be marginalized as a presidential aspirant, I am still here and leading."

The daughter of President Diosdado Macapagal pointed out that she got the highest rating of 28% in a recent survey among presidential aspirants and was also given the highest performance rating among all the senators.

STARS IN SIMULTANEOUS MILLENNIUM CELEBRATIONS

Manila, July 31, 2014 - Top showbiz personalities and artists will dazzle spectators during the Musical Extravaganza that will be staged simultaneously at various parks and open spaces in Metro Manila tonight.

At the Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila, highlights of the Millennium Special are President Benigno S. Aquino III’s speech on the occasion of the "INQUIRER Lifestyle Series: Fitness.Fashion with Samsung Fashion Show" 6th Anniversary.

Starting at 8:00 P.M., the Musical Extravaganza will feature showbiz celebrities Cocoy Laurel, April Boy Regino, Pops Fernandez, Agot Isidro, Rachel Alejandro, performing with 600 students, 200 soldiers and more than 100 bit players in a production number entitled Tayo’y Mga Pinoy at the Quirino Grandstand.

Simultaneously, Jolina Magdangal, Rica Paralejo, Carol Banawa, Roselle Nava, Jefrey Hidalgo, Tootsie Guevarra and Jeremiah will perform at the Quezon City Memorial Circle, while Nanette Inventor, Jamie Rivera and the Repertory Philippines will hold their own show at Fort Santiago, Manila.

Roderick Paulate, Lara Fabregas, Joy Viado, the Tux, Wowie de Guzman, Carlos Agassi, and the Street Boys, among others, will participate at the Pinoy Sayawan medley at the Rizal Park, while John Pratts, Carlo Aquino, Stefano Mori and others will be doing their numbers at the Quezon City Memorial Circle.

These and other production numbers will be aired live through the facilities of the ABS-CBN and various radio and TV stations.

This 7-31 Fashion Show at the Rigodon Ballroom of the Peninsula Manila is part of the INQUIRER Lifestyle Series: Fitness.Fashion with Samsung Fashion Show that the Newspaper is hosting this event.

Guest Stars (In Alphabetical Order)

• Gerald Anderson
• Alex Anselmuccio
• Sath Arcilla
• Jon Avila
• Jaco Benin
• Carlo Cruz
• Prince Carlos
• Lorenzo Casimiro
• King Certeza
• Jake Cuenca
• Kean Cipriano
• Mathew Custodio
• Enchong Dee
• JC de Vera
• Eco dela Sala
• Alfonso delos Reyes
• Josef Elizalde
• Ejay Falcon
• Lorenzo Luis Flores
• Paolo Gonzales III
• Dino Imperial
• Brock King
• Liam Labrooy
• Lloyd Lee
• Kirk Long
• Dale John McDonald
• Arkin Magalona
• Julio Magalong
• Eduardo Mitra
• Eri Neeman
• Aaron Ngui
• Joshua Ouano
• Paco Rabat
• Niko Rodriguez
• Phytos Ramirez
• Raul Recto Jr.
• Neo Rivera
• Mark Rivera
• Ivan Regner
• Jak Roberto
• Carl Henrik Rule
• Jason Lawrence Salvador
• Marvin Tan
• Miguel Tanfelix
• Paulo Tiongson
• Justin Torio
• Ice Tugot
• Carl Jan Uy
• Mark Darryl Lim Uy
• Keanu Villanueva
• David Webb
• Justine Noel Weineke
• James Wright

Source: www.candymag.com/candycuties

Performers at "Grand Youth Party" at Quezon City Memorial Circle

• Sath Arcilla
• Carlo Cruz
• Prince Carlos
• Lorenzo Casimiro
• King Certeza
• Mathew Custodio
• Alfonso delos Reyes
• Lorenzo Luis Flores
• Paolo Gonzales III
• Brock King
• Liam Labrooy
• Dale John McDonald
• Arkin Magalona
• Julio Magalong
• Eduardo Mitra
• Joshua Ouano
• Paco Rabat
• Niko Rodriguez
• Phytos Ramirez
• Raul Recto Jr.
• Neo Rivera
• Mark Rivera
• Ivan Regner
• Jak Roberto
• Carl Henrik Rule
• Jason Lawrence Salvador
• Marvin Tan
• Miguel Tanfelix
• Paulo Tiongson
• Justin Torio
• Ice Tugot
• Carl Jan Uy
• Mark Darryl Lim Uy
• Keanu Villanueva
• Justine Noel Weineke
• James Wright

Pope gets grand welcome.

Manila, Philippines, October 24, 2014 - In his fifth trip and his first to this country, Pope Francis called on the people to "see the world around you through the eyes of Jesus Himself.

Looking less fit than his previous visit of former Pope John Paul II 19 years, 11 months and 30 days ago on January 12 to 16, 1995.

Addressing the crowd from a specially-built stage on the tarmac, the pope said, "The Filipino people are never far from my mind and heart, and I reach out to embrace each one in esteem and affection."

Pope Francis called on the people to reflect the theme of the anniversary celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide: "_________".

When the Pope ended his short speech with "Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!", the crowd went wild waving handkerchiefs, pennants and flags.

Popemobile: Mercedes-Benz M-Class W166

In an unprecedented move, Pope Francis I approached the schoolchildren, garbed in native costumes and who had come to dance for him, instead of boarding the popemobile Mercedes-Benz M-Class W166 as scheduled.

Security measures went awry as people took the opportunity to move near the pope and receive the blessing. Finally boarding the specially build vehicle an hour after he arrived, the Pope took a Moment to raise his hands before members of the joint Vatican and Presidential Security Group guards closed the door.
Until he arrived at the Papal Nunciature 50 minutes later, the aging pontiff continued to wave to the throngs who braved the heat to greet him along Roxas Boulevard, Quirino Avenue and Taft Avenue.

Throngs of Roman Catholic faithful waved flags and shouted "Viva Il Papa!" as the pontiff made his way to the Apostolic Nunciature, his official residence for his five-day stay in Manila.

Travelling along the designated route from the Old Manila International Airport in Pasay City to the Nunciature in Taft Avenue, Manila the 77-year-old Pope was met each time with huge crowds who circled his specially made, bullet-proof "popemobile". So thick were the crowds that what would have been a 15-minute trip stretched to 50 minutes. In some areas, the crowd may have 30 to 40 deep, barely allowing the Papal convoy passage.

Alitalia Airbus.

The Pope had arrived as scheduled at 2:57 p.m. on board an Alitalia Airbus A330-200. He paused to greet the Airport crowd before being accompanied down from the plain by Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, Archbishop of Manila and Archbishop Giuseppe Pinto, Papal Nuncio to the Philippines.

President Benigno S. Aquino III

The Aquino Family

The Pope was met by President Bengino S. Aquino III and his sisters, Maria Elena "Ballsy" Aquino-Cruz, Aurora Corazon "Pinky" Aquino-Abellada, Victoria Elisa "Viel" Aquino-Dee and Kristina Bernadette "Kris" Aquino-Yap, who were the first to greet them officially.

Sheet music of the Vatican Anthem.

The lyrics of the Philippine National Anthem.

The National Anthems of the Philippines and Vatican were played as he went through the cordon of honor and greeted Filipino officials and members of the diplomatic corps.

Vice-President Jejomar Binay, Sr.

Among those on hand to welcome Pope Francis on his first visit were Philippine Vice-President Jejomar C. Binay, Sr., Executive Secretary  Paquito Ochoa, Jr., Senate President Franklin M. Drilon, Speaker Feliciano R. Belmonte, Jr., Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario and Philippine Ambassador to Vatican Mercedes Arrastia Tuason.

Former President Fidel V. Ramos 

Former President and now Manila City Mayor Joseph Ejercito-Estrada.

Former President and now Pampanga 2nd District Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo

Former President Fidel V. Ramos, Manila City Mayor Joseph Estrada and Pampanga 2nd District Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo were also among his first welcomers.

WELCOME CEREMONY: ADDRESS OF HIS HOLINESS, POPE FRANCIS (Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Pasay City, Metro Manila, Thursday, October 23, 2014)

Dear President Aquino, Dear People of the Philippines,

1. I thank you, Mister President, for your kind words of welcome, full of the warmth and hospitality with which Filipinos traditionally welcome their guests. I greatly appreciate all that you and your Government have done to make this visit possible. For a long time I have looked forward to stepping on to Philippine soil once more. The Filipino people are never far from my mind and heart, and I reach out to embrace each one with esteem and affection. We are indeed old friends, ever since assumed as pope on March 13, 2013.

2. My Brother Bishops, Cardinal Rosales and Cardinal Palma, and all the Bishops – whom I gladly greet in the Lord – expressed many times their wish for the Successor of Peter to share the joy of Filipino Catholics on the Fourth Centenary of the Archdioceses of Manila, Cebu, Caceres and Nueva Segovia. I am here to celebrate with the Catholic community of the Philippines four hundred and twenty years of the organized and hierarchical presence and action of the Church in these Islands. That first evangelization has produced enduring fruits of Christian life and holiness, of civilizing action, of the transmission – especially through a strong family life – of fundamental human and civic values. As the next presidential administration approaches, we should all be convinced that those fruits can thrive even more in concerted action by all sectors of society, in the building of a nation resolutely set on the path of genuine and integral development, and fully committed to the wellbeing of all its citizens, with special concern for the weakest.

3. The thought of celebrating the annual anniversary of the religious group “Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide”, founded by activist and Christian religious preacher Bro. Eddie Villanueva, in the Philippines, in Asia, has gladdened me and given me encouragement. The Spirit of God has led thousands of young men and women here and they are now filling the streets of Manila with their youthful joy and Christian witness. A large group of them are right here. I greet each one of you: I warmly embrace every young person here, all the youth of the Philippines, and all those who have come from other countries and continents. At Rio, Brazil, during the last World Youth Day outside Rome, we meditated on the "new life" which comes from Jesus Christ: "I came – he said – that they may have life, and have it abundantly"(Io. 10, 10). Now, here in Manila, we gather to hear him say: "As the Father sent me, so am I sending you" (Ibid. 20, 21). During these days we shall reflect on and pray about what these words mean for each one of you, for the young people of the end of the Twentieth Century, the young people of the Third Christian Millennium.

4. To all Filipino people, to all gathered for the World Youth Day, I make this invitation: See the world around you with the eyes of Jesus himself! The Gospel says that when he saw the crowds, "he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd" (Matthew chapter 9 verse 36). The Good News of God’s love and mercy – the word of truth, justice and peace which alone can inspire a life worthy of God’s sons and daughters – must be proclaimed to the ends of the earth. The Church and the world look to young people for new light, new love, a new commitment to meeting the great needs of humanity.

The people gathered in Manila for the annual anniversary celebration of the religious group "Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide" know this. The Church in the Philippines knows that it has a special vocation to bear witness to the Gospel in the heart of Asia. Guided by Divine Providence, your historic destiny is to build a "civilization of love", of brotherhood and solidarity, a civilization which will be perfectly at home among the ancient cultures and traditions of the entire Asian continent.

5. Mister President, members of the Government, and distinguished representatives of the Filipino people: the Church and the political community work on different levels and are mutually independent, but they serve the same human beings (cfr. Gaudium et Spes, 76). In that service there is ample room for dialogue, co–operation and mutual support. You have a very valid and specifically Philippine model of co–operation for development in The Social Pact, formally signed in March 1993. I pray that the "new solidarity" which The Social Pact espouses will be a striking success for the good of the Filipino people, and for the pride and glory of the Nation as a beacon of peace and harmony in Asia. 

6. Cardinal Tagle, Cardinal Palma, Brother Bishops, Deacons, Pastors, Filipino Brothers and Sisters in Christ: I look forward to celebrating with you in faith the great things done in the Church and by the Church in these Islands over the last five centuries. Together we shall pray that God may continue to protect and guide his pilgrim People in the Philippines!

God bless the Philippines! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! 

The following day, October 24, 2014, the Pontiff met with President Benigno S. Aquino III at Malacañang and later celebrated Mass for the 233 delegates of the International Youth Forum at Central Seminary Chapel of the UST. He also gave a 20-minute speech to some 200,000 cheering students and academicians gathered at UST Grandstand and Parade Grounds.

“I see that it is my great privilege to be here, to be here and discover anew this phenomenon I knew before, and today I know better,” the Pontiff said.

Pope prays for nation's poor, Yolanda victims

The Quadcentennial Altar with the Emblem of Pope Francis.

Manila, Philippines, October 26, 2014 - Pope Francis voiced concern for the millions of Filipinos living in poverty and the victims of natural disasters as hundreds of thousands of people gathered yesterday for a Mass beside Manila Bay in an outpouring of religious fervor.

“In the midst of our joy on this occasion we cannot forget our Filipino brothers and sisters who live in difficult social and economic conditions, and those who are trying to recover from the natural disasters which have occurred with a certain frequency in recent times,” he told the crowd. The Pontiff, celebrating the first public mass of his four-day visit from October 23 to 27, 2014, singled out the victims of the November 3-11, 2013 Super Typhoon Yolanda whose led to death of at least 6,340 people and the July 16-18, 2014 Typhoon Glenda whose led to death of at least 187 people.

“I ask God to strengthen and comfort those who have lost their loved ones, their homes, their livelihood, and I earnestly hope that their appeals for further help and solidarity will not go unheard”, he said.

Half of the 100 Million Population of the Philippines is considered to be living below the poverty line, and the country is regularly hit by natural disasters like tropical storms and earthquakes.

The Pope cautioned people to confuse the church in the Philippines, Asia's only Christian-majority nation with "some merely human or humanitarian organization."

Official estimates put the crowd at more than a million people but witnesses said it appeared much smaller.

If the crowd was smaller, than Roman Catholic Church leaders of the Philippines had hoped for, it made up for the lack of numbers with fervor at the sight of the Pope.

"MABUHAY!"

At one point, the 76-year-old pontiff replied to the cries of Mabuhay ang Santo Papa (Long Live Holy Father) with his own "Mabuhay ang Filipino People" from the High Altar specially constructed with a Pyramid Canopy.

At the end of the Mass on the big open area beside a gaudy fairground along Manila Bay, hundreds of people descended on the flower-decked platform, after the Pope had left, to snatch souvenirs. Children tried out his throne-like chair.

Security was intense for the Mass marking the 420th Anniversary of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Manila and other Regions of the Philippine Islands after they were conquered by Spain.

Even the Pope's own Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin was frisked before being allowed to join archbishops, bishops, cardinals, deacons monsignors, reverend fathers, pastors throughout Asia, Oceania, North America, South America, Europe and Africa for the Mass.

He smiled broadly as he was checked for weapons with a metal detector, part of the security measures imposed after the Philippine Police arrested at least two people suspected of plotting to harm the Pope.

The Pontiff, was lifted to the top of the flower-decked platform for the Mass by a Philippine Airlines Airport Hoist.

And he paid tribute to the "spiritual joy" of the Filipino people - expressed in their traditional way through song.

"I thank the Filipino people, the Wonderful Filipino people," the Pontiff told the cheering crowd. "My heart is going out to all of them, to all the Filipino men and women, to all the men and women from all countries of the world."

Yesterday, October 24 was the busiest day of the Pope's five-day visit to the Philippines, which began Thursday, October 23. Following the Morning Mass, he met with Asian bishops, attended the 45th foundation anniversary of the Catholic radio station DZRV Radio Veritas 846 and visited people during an evening vigil at 6:00 P.M. at Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila.

Vatican sources said the 74-year-old pontiff would also broadcast a message to the 1.2 billion people of China, whose government has refused to allow Roman Catholics to acknowledge papal supremacy for six decades.

“Go and make disciples of all nations”

Pope Francis' message at the Mass yesterday (October 25, 2014) at the Philippine International Convention Center.

"Full authority has been given to me both in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations" (Matthew 28, 18-19).

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

1. These words from today’s Gospel take on a special meaning in the context of the Jubilee which, together with the visit, the Roman Catholic Church in the Philippines is celebrating. Four hundred and twenty years ago, in 1595, the first Ecclesiastical Province was set up on these Islands: the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila and the Dioceses of Cebu, Caceres and Nueva Segovia.

I greet the whole Filipino people, wonderful Filipino people. I greet all their Pastors. I thank Cardinal Tagle for these kind words of welcome. I greet also His Excellency President Benigno S. Aquino the Third and the Authorities.

The establishment of a Metropolitan Church in the Philippines bore witness to the fact that the work of the first missionaries had borne abundant fruit. The process of planting and building up the Church had already taken place in other parts of the world, especially in the European countries. In the case of my own Poland, it had taken place in the year 1000. Later, the same thing happened in the countries of South America, Central America and North America. So it happened and continues to happen in Africa, in Australia and throughout Oceania, and on the continent of Asia. All this has a meaning that is not just a question of ecclesiastical administration. The Church is a living body. Like a living body, at a certain point she reaches a stage of maturity which makes it possible for a particular Church to give life to other Churches like itself.

Plantatio Ecclesiae. Mysterium plantationis Ecclesiae. Paulus plantavit; Apollo rigavit. Deus autem incrementum dedit. I see that Filipino people are understanding very well Latin.

2. Four hundred years ago the Church in Manila became the Metropolitan See for the Church in Cebu, Caceres and Nueva Segovia. In the space of these four centuries the number of the particular Churches in the Philippines has greatly increased. Those first four Dioceses have each become a Metropolitan See, and alongside them numerous particular Churches have developed and continue to grow. In this part of the world it is the Philippines which enjoys the greatest wealth of ecclesial life. Plantatio fecunda, fecundissima.

Dear brothers and sisters, we have come together here to give thanks to God precisely for this grace, great grace of God. Not just you who have come from all over the Philippines, but also representatives of the Churches throughout Asia and the Far East. As I see also many Cardinals from Europe, and from Africa, from Asia. All together we greet the delegates of the other Christian Churches and Communities, as well as the representatives of other religions. For me it is a great joy to be here with you on this day, as Bishop of Rome and Successor of Saint Peter. Peter was the first in "plantatio Ecclesiae" in Rome and from Rome. "Plantatio Ecclesiae" in Manila, in the Philippines, Peter, Successor of Peter, also a grace. Together let us praise God for the grace of this Four Hundred and Twentieth Anniversary. In one great chorus let us commend the Church in the Philippines and the whole Nation to God’s Providence: "Save your people, Lord, and bless your inheritance"(Psalm 28 (27), 9).

In the midst of our joy on this occasion we cannot forget our Filipino brothers and sisters who live in difficult social and economic conditions, and those who are trying to recover from the natural disasters which have occurred with a certain frequency in recent times. I am thinking in particular of the victims of the typhoons Yolanda and Glenda and its after-effects. I ask God to strengthen and comfort those who have lost their loved ones, their homes, their livelihood, and I earnestly hope that their appeals for further help and solidarity will not go unheard. And I think also there are many Filipinos in Rome, in Italy and through the world. I greet all of them. They are also the same inheritance. They are also celebrating this centenary.

3. Today, we cannot fail to remember the first messengers of the Good News who came to these Islands. Their origins were in Spain, for it was above all the Iberian Peninsula which gave rise to that great missionary thrust which followed the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus. At that same time other brave explorers were travelling south and east, round Africa by way of the Cape of Good Hope, through the Indian Ocean, towards Asia and the Far East. Those remarkable voyages opened up for the Church vast new horizons for her evangelizing mission. It was in that context that the evangelization of the Philippines began.

It is significant that the first Episcopal See in Manila was originally attached to Mexico, in spite of the enormous distance involved in crossing the Pacific Ocean. Clearly that was a temporary measure, until the first independent Ecclesiastical Province was erected in the Philippines, precisely in 1595. After hesitation at the beginning, the missionary Church of that early period gradually became more truly Filipina as the number of native-born priests and Bishops increased.

Looking back today on that past, we must express our thankfulness to God for those pioneers who laid the foundations of the Church in this land: for the Augustinians who were the first to arrive, followed by the Franciscans, the Jesuits, the Dominicans and the Augustinian Recollects. The early missionaries who sought to defend the native peoples from the abuses of the conquistadores and encomenderos found a vigorous leader in the Dominican Fray Domingo de Salazar, the first Bishop of Manila. As early as 1582 he summoned the first Synod, which decided many questions regarding conquest, settlement and administration in accordance with the principles of the faith and Christian morality.

A wonderful process, a wonderful history, history of the Church, history of salvation, history of Filipino people. All of us, all of you Filipinos today, you are the inheritance, the successors in this great process, great process.

4. Saint Paul writes to the Ephesians: "May the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, grant you a spirit of wisdom and insight... that you may know the great hope to which he has called you... and the immeasurable scope of his power in us who believe" (Eph. 1, 17-19). What Saint Paul wished for the Christian community at Ephesus is what I wish today for the Catholic people of the Philippines. I pray above all that you will appreciate ever more fully the grace of your Christian vocation as explained by the Second Vatican Council in its Constitution on the Church (Cfr. Lumen Gentium, 40). 

This vocation has its beginning and source in Christ himself. All Christians live by the inexhaustible riches given to us in him. Saint John of the Cross, the great Spanish mystic who lived just at the time when the evangelization of the Philippines was getting underway, reminds us of this fact. He wrote in the Spiritual Canticle: "(Christ) is like a rich mine with many recesses containing treasures, and no matter how men try to fathom them the end is never reached" (Saint John of the Cross, Spiritual Canticle, st. 36). Christ is so rich!

In the work of the missionaries and in their service to the people, the power of Christ, Crucified and Risen, was being manifested – the power of Christ, who is seated at the right hand of the Father and who, as Redeemer and Bridegroom of the Church, works through her in the Holy Spirit. It is very important not to confuse the Church with some merely human or humanitarian organization. The Church lives and grows in Christ and through Christ. All her members, in their thoughts and actions, are called to bear witness to the living presence of the Redeemer.

5. The Father, as we read in the Letter to the Ephesians, "has put all things under Christ’s feet and has made him thus exalted, head of the Church, which is his body" (Eph. 1,22-23). That is why, after his Resurrection, Christ sent out the Apostles with the words: "Full authority has been given to me both in heaven and on earth" (Matthew 28:18). This saving power of the Redeemer is what sustained the missionaries who came to the Philippines in the sixteenth century. This same power is what has preserved the sons and daughters of your nation in living their lives as Christians, in forming Christian families, in educating your children in the faith. By doing all of this, your forefathers laid the foundations of the only predominantly Catholic country in this part of the world, a region which still presents an enormous challenge for evangelization. In time, children of this land, as priests and Bishops, took over full pastoral responsibility, while others filled the ranks of the congregations of men and women religious, so that the Church which is "the fullness of him who fills the universe in all its parts"(Eph. 1, 23) would be truly catholic and universal, but also truly immersed in the life and culture of these Islands.

6. Today therefore is a day of great joy: rejoice in great gratitude to the Lord. The Responsorial Psalm contains an appropriate invitation: "All you people, clap your hands, shout to God with cries of gladness... For the king of all the earth is God... God reigns over all the nations" (Psalm 47(46),2.8-9). The faith which springs from the Gospel transforms the life both of individuals and of nations. For four hundred years the Church has served as a leaven and as a kind of soul for Philippine society, most of all by her healing and elevating impact on respect for the human person, and by the way in which she strengthens families and communities, and imbues everyday activity with a deeper meaning and reference to God (Cfr. Gaudium et Spes, 40). Inspired by their faith, Filipino Catholics have begun countless initiatives for the good of society, in the fields of education, healthcare and service of all kinds. Out of the Church’s religious mission during these four hundred years there came a light and an energy which have served to structure and consolidate the human community according to the divine law (Cfr. Gaudium et Spes, 42). This is the source of our joy. This is the source for our joy and our gratitude to the Lord, the Almighty Father. This is the reason for the Philippine Church’s joy, visible in this celebration, with all the color and vitality of your culture and Christian traditions. But this is also your task and responsibility: to remain faithful to what has been handed down and to build on it, so that God’s law will abide in your hearts and his blessings will increasingly be poured out on your nation.

A great boost to our joy is given by the people of the World Youth Day who have come to Manila from every corner of the Philippines, from many parts of Asia and the Far East, and from the other continents. They are the sign and the confirmation of your living faith. My heart is going to all of them, to all the Filipino young men and women, and to all young men and women of the whole world, of so many countries of the world... European, Asiatic, Africa, America, North America, Latin America, Central America, Australia, all the continents.

7. The joy of the human heart springs from the presence of God in us, in our hearts. Isaiah writes: "All who... hold to my covenant I will bring to my holy mountain and make joyful in my house of prayer". The spiritual joy of God’s people in the Philippines has two fundamental points of reference: the house of prayer and the holy mountain. First, the community gathers in "the house of prayer"(Is. 56, 6-7) – which is the home, or a chapel, a parish church or a cathedral – to celebrate the mysteries of our redemption and to profess the one, holy, catholic and apostolic faith. From there God’s pilgrim people go forth to ascend "the holy mountain": marching forward in hope towards the fullness of God’s kingdom, all the time striving to make present and operative at every level of your personal and national life that kingdom of holiness, justice, peace and solidarity. So two points: the house of prayer and the holy mountain, being together and ascending with Christ into heaven, into his kingdom. All that is inspired by the liturgical texts as of today’s liturgy.

8. Filipino People of God: at every Mass you hear the call to lift up your hearts: Sursum corda!

Lift up your heart, holy Church, which in four centuries has built a solid dwelling place for God in these Islands! So numerous islands, Filipino islands, wonderful islands!

Whole generations have gone up from here to the Holy Mountain, where the God of glory dwells. The sign of this ascent are your Filipino Saints, beginning with Saint Lorenzo Ruiz whom I had the joy to beatify here in Manila and to canonize in Rome. They remain closely united with you in the Communion of the Saints. They show you the way to God, which is the fulfilment of the vocation of each and every human being.

Rejoice, Filipino people, holy Church of Manila, Cebu, Caceres, Nueva Segovia! Rejoice, every Filipino family, every Filipino Diocese and parish! Rejoice, for it has pleased the Father to give you the kingdom! This promise of the Father is fulfilled unceasingly through the power of Christ: to him be honor and glory for ever! Amen.

A long homily, but not too long for this occasion! 
Mabuhay, to all Filipino people! Long live! 
Very, very, very grateful for this celebration, for this great festivity of the Church in the Philippines. 
Very grateful to almighty God! 
Very grateful to all of you! 
Viva Manila, Cebu, Caceres, Nueva Segovia! 
Thank you very much! 
Mabuhay!