Wednesday, March 21, 2018
Tuesday, March 20, 2018
Gerard Butler enters ‘Den Of Thieves’
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| Gerard Butler as Detective Nick ‘Big Nick’ O’Brien |
Gerard Butler’s latest action thriller movie, “Den Of Thieves,” is on its second week of showing, courtesy of Viva International Pictures and MVP Entertainment.
Set in contemporary Los Angeles, “Den Of Thieves” is a crime saga which follows the intersecting and often personally connected lives of the Regulators, an elite unit of the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department; and the Outlaws, the state’s most successful bank robbery crew.
The Regulators is led by alpha dog “Big Nick” O’Brien played by Gerard (“Olympus Has Fallen,” “300”). The Outlaws is led by the icy and calm Ray Merriman played by Pablo Schreiber (“13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi”).
Writer and director Christian Gudegast was reading “Where The Money Is,” a nonfiction book about how Los Angeles became the bank robbery capital of the world, when he saw a photo in the Los Angeles Times; the photo, taken at the Federal Reserve Bank, was of a massive tub of money. The photo and the book sparked an idea, and Christian wrote the story that would eventually become the basis for the screenplay of “Den Of Thieves.”
• • •
More revelations on ‘Kambal, Karibal’
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| Carmina Villaroel |
Now that Geraldine (Carmina Villaroel) has found out the truth, that Crisan (Bianca Umali), the girl she wants to be jailed for thinking she had caused her daughter Cheska (Kyline Alcantara) many sufferings, is really her daughter, she wants to make up for making her life miserable in the past.
But what Geraldine doesn’t know is that the Crisan she thinks is her daughter is actually Crisan’s twin, Crisel, who has invaded Crisan’s body.
So, now that Allan (Alfred Vargas) has been told that Crisan is his and Geraldine’s daughter and not Teresa’s (Jean Garcia), will he break up with Teresa who is actually Raymond’s (Marvin Agustin) cousin?
“Kambal, Karibal,” also stars Miguel Tanfelix and Christopher de Leon among others. The series airs weekdays after “Sherlock Jr.” on GMA Telebabad.
• • •
Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 20, go to Dessa, Waldy Carbonel, Josie Saddul, Nellie Yap, Ronnie Tabora, Arnel Martin, Nenette Young, Theresa Lizardo, Bob Serrano, Amy de Guzman, Carol Bautista, Maridol Bismark and Badette Cunanan…March 21: Gabby Singson, Francis Sacay, Ben Pangilinan, Estela Nabong, Venus Robinson, Junne Quintana, Mon Crespo, Len Aligayo, Mymy Alino Mariano, Carmita Francisco, Roland Anthony Tan, Ben Tan, Democrito Ngujo, Engr. Jun Nacar, Luis Cimafranca, Razel Mae Libot, Rev. Fr. Jonathan Lao, RJ Piquero and Lotlot de Leon…
Senate approves bill converting Batangas town into component city
The Senate today approved on third and final reading a bill converting the municipality of Sto. Tomas in the province of Batangas into a component city.
House Bill No. 5160 was sponsored by Senator Sonny Angara, chair of the Senate Committee on Local Government, and was passed with 19 affirmative votes and zero negative votes.
"Like the national hero Miguel Malvar, a native of this town and among the first of countless Filipino revolutionaries, Sto. Tomas is also leading the way towards progress among local government units," Angara said.
Angara said that the "thriving" town of Sto. Tomas was one of most populous in the whole country, and clearly met the population requirement indicated by the Local Government Code.
"The Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF) has certified the municipality's average annual income at more than P230 million, which is also well above the require amount for conversion," he said.
Angara noted that Sto. Tomas hosts a 600-megawatt solar panel factory, the first of its kind in the country, and a multinational paints supplier factory that would produce paints for many industries.
"If we provide enough resources for flourishing towns like Sto. Tomas, then more Filipinos are given the chance to relish this bountifulness," he said.
According to Angara, a great part of national development is dependent "on the quality and capacity of the country's local government units."
"Our national government agencies have drawn economic plans that entail the expansion of the economy outside urbanized cities to dissipate concentrated gains. But to accomplish this goal requires solid foundations, not just of the national agencies, but also of our local governments," he concluded.
A municipality or a cluster of barangays may be converted into a component city if it has an average annual income of at least P100 million in the last two consecutive years based on 2000 constant prices and either a population of at least 150,000 inhabitants or a contiguous territory of 100 square kilometers.
House Bill No. 5160 was sponsored by Senator Sonny Angara, chair of the Senate Committee on Local Government, and was passed with 19 affirmative votes and zero negative votes.
"Like the national hero Miguel Malvar, a native of this town and among the first of countless Filipino revolutionaries, Sto. Tomas is also leading the way towards progress among local government units," Angara said.
Angara said that the "thriving" town of Sto. Tomas was one of most populous in the whole country, and clearly met the population requirement indicated by the Local Government Code.
"The Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF) has certified the municipality's average annual income at more than P230 million, which is also well above the require amount for conversion," he said.
Angara noted that Sto. Tomas hosts a 600-megawatt solar panel factory, the first of its kind in the country, and a multinational paints supplier factory that would produce paints for many industries.
"If we provide enough resources for flourishing towns like Sto. Tomas, then more Filipinos are given the chance to relish this bountifulness," he said.
According to Angara, a great part of national development is dependent "on the quality and capacity of the country's local government units."
"Our national government agencies have drawn economic plans that entail the expansion of the economy outside urbanized cities to dissipate concentrated gains. But to accomplish this goal requires solid foundations, not just of the national agencies, but also of our local governments," he concluded.
A municipality or a cluster of barangays may be converted into a component city if it has an average annual income of at least P100 million in the last two consecutive years based on 2000 constant prices and either a population of at least 150,000 inhabitants or a contiguous territory of 100 square kilometers.
Monday, March 19, 2018
The Boracay test
The recommended one-year closure of Boracay is a tough test of the political will of President Duterte. The clean-up of Boracay should have been done a long time ago.
Closing down Boracay for a year is an extremely tough decision to make. Thousands of workers dependent on Boracay will be out of jobs. Investors will lose millions, if not hundreds of millions, on capital spent to build up the tourism industry in Boracay.
Boracay accounts for two million of the six million tourists we attract each year. Boracay reportedly brings in P56 billion in revenues too. Closing it completely for a year can damage the brand.
Jojo Clemente, president of the Tourism Congress of the Philippines, pointed out that it took one year to have Boracay included in the tour programs of foreign travel agencies and tour operators for 2018-2019. Tourists booked their Boracay tours and stay about a year in advance.
“What will you tell them? Go to Cebu? Davao? What if they don’t like to go to those places because the contract between the guests and the travel agencies is for Boracay? So they go to Phuket instead, and the entire Philippines loses out,” Clemente warned in an interview with Business Mirror.
I am not sure such a drastic yearlong closure is necessary. Allowing the resorts that have no violations to continue operating is the right thing to do. Punishing the good and bad doesn’t seem right. Indeed, allowing the good guys to operate will deliver the message that Duterte will reward the good and punish the bad. That’s justice.
Anyway, the important test of the administration’s sincerity has to do with the resort that was built on a no-build zone and has violated a number of other laws and regulations. Sen. Pacquiao told a television interview that he interceded with then DENR Sec. Joselito Atienza to grant that resort a permit and Atienza gave it.
To mark the earnest start of the Boracay clean up, Duterte should send in the Marines as he had announced, to blow up that massive illegal construction. Then measures must be taken to bring that area back to what it was supposed to be ... a forest and mangrove reserve.
But the stakeholders in Boracay shouldn’t be complaining too much about government’s drastic approach to fix what has gone wrong with the island. Most of them have abused Boracay over the years and ignored warnings that they are killing the island.
The inability of local government units to properly manage such an important tourist destination calls for the creation of a strong tourism authority to regulate such areas. We need to do the same thing for Boracay, Siargao, Panglao, El Nido, etc.
TIEZA or the Tourism Infrastructure Enterprise Zone Authority should be converted into an all powerful tourism authority to take away the responsibility of regulating tourism enterprises from LGUs. The municipality of Malay, Aklan which covers Boracay has proven itself to be incompetent and, most likely, corrupt.
The island’s carrying capacity should be considered. Maybe two million tourists a year is too much. A ban on new construction should be enforced. The construction of that fairly large DoubleDragon hotel should be stopped or moved to Caticlan on the mainland.
The role of government in the industry should be infrastructure development and regulation to include environmental concerns through a tourism authority. Tourism promotion should be left to the private sector. The private sector should invest in building up their business.
What Megawide is doing for Cebu is a good example. They earn more if more airlines go to Cebu and use Mactan airport. Airlines will go to Mactan if they have passengers. So Megawide launched tourism promotion drives in China, South Korea and Japan that is starting to deliver more flights and more tourists.
If government is focused on regulation rather than “promotional” junkets abroad, the Boracay problem could have been arrested sooner. Unless government acts urgently, the same problems will manifest in Panglao, Siargao, El Nido and Coron.
Panglao is about to make it to prime time with the inauguration this year of their very own international airport. Yet, the more popular and crowded beachfront areas in Panglao are showing the Boracay disease. The LGU there seems useless too.
Closing down Boracay for one year is probably too radical. For the long term, creating a powerful tourism authority is a move President Duterte ought to consider to make things right in the tourism industry so that the Boracay problem doesn’t happen again.
ROW problems
NGCP sent word they are ready to cooperate with the completion of the San Miguel connector road project. They have, in fact, bought the materials needed to relocate their posts. What they don’t have is right of way.
The steel poles, power conductors, insulators have arrived and are awaiting deployment, I am told. According to NGCP, the only reason things aren’t moving is because there were many notices of award revisions. Authorities keep on changing the sites NGCP will move to. Worse, any change in pole alignment may affect the pole line hardware NGCP is procuring.
The TRB-PNR MOA to allow NGCP pole relocation near the PNR tracks is ON HOLD. PNR wants to construct a new office in the Pandacan station area.
Apparently, DPWH is not to blame for this problem, but DOTr. The ROW problem is now between two government agencies, TRB and PNR, both under DOTr Sec. Art Tugade. Because of the delay, standby costs are being incurred and no one wants to assume responsibility.
It will be fair to say Sec. Tugade is delaying a vital infra project through his indecision. This is a project that will relieve some of our traffic problems, which is also Tugade’s responsibility.
Hay naku! Secretary Tugade... Anuba? Hoy, Gising!
Closing down Boracay for a year is an extremely tough decision to make. Thousands of workers dependent on Boracay will be out of jobs. Investors will lose millions, if not hundreds of millions, on capital spent to build up the tourism industry in Boracay.
Boracay accounts for two million of the six million tourists we attract each year. Boracay reportedly brings in P56 billion in revenues too. Closing it completely for a year can damage the brand.
Jojo Clemente, president of the Tourism Congress of the Philippines, pointed out that it took one year to have Boracay included in the tour programs of foreign travel agencies and tour operators for 2018-2019. Tourists booked their Boracay tours and stay about a year in advance.
“What will you tell them? Go to Cebu? Davao? What if they don’t like to go to those places because the contract between the guests and the travel agencies is for Boracay? So they go to Phuket instead, and the entire Philippines loses out,” Clemente warned in an interview with Business Mirror.
I am not sure such a drastic yearlong closure is necessary. Allowing the resorts that have no violations to continue operating is the right thing to do. Punishing the good and bad doesn’t seem right. Indeed, allowing the good guys to operate will deliver the message that Duterte will reward the good and punish the bad. That’s justice.
Anyway, the important test of the administration’s sincerity has to do with the resort that was built on a no-build zone and has violated a number of other laws and regulations. Sen. Pacquiao told a television interview that he interceded with then DENR Sec. Joselito Atienza to grant that resort a permit and Atienza gave it.
To mark the earnest start of the Boracay clean up, Duterte should send in the Marines as he had announced, to blow up that massive illegal construction. Then measures must be taken to bring that area back to what it was supposed to be ... a forest and mangrove reserve.
But the stakeholders in Boracay shouldn’t be complaining too much about government’s drastic approach to fix what has gone wrong with the island. Most of them have abused Boracay over the years and ignored warnings that they are killing the island.
The inability of local government units to properly manage such an important tourist destination calls for the creation of a strong tourism authority to regulate such areas. We need to do the same thing for Boracay, Siargao, Panglao, El Nido, etc.
TIEZA or the Tourism Infrastructure Enterprise Zone Authority should be converted into an all powerful tourism authority to take away the responsibility of regulating tourism enterprises from LGUs. The municipality of Malay, Aklan which covers Boracay has proven itself to be incompetent and, most likely, corrupt.
The island’s carrying capacity should be considered. Maybe two million tourists a year is too much. A ban on new construction should be enforced. The construction of that fairly large DoubleDragon hotel should be stopped or moved to Caticlan on the mainland.
The role of government in the industry should be infrastructure development and regulation to include environmental concerns through a tourism authority. Tourism promotion should be left to the private sector. The private sector should invest in building up their business.
What Megawide is doing for Cebu is a good example. They earn more if more airlines go to Cebu and use Mactan airport. Airlines will go to Mactan if they have passengers. So Megawide launched tourism promotion drives in China, South Korea and Japan that is starting to deliver more flights and more tourists.
If government is focused on regulation rather than “promotional” junkets abroad, the Boracay problem could have been arrested sooner. Unless government acts urgently, the same problems will manifest in Panglao, Siargao, El Nido and Coron.
Panglao is about to make it to prime time with the inauguration this year of their very own international airport. Yet, the more popular and crowded beachfront areas in Panglao are showing the Boracay disease. The LGU there seems useless too.
Closing down Boracay for one year is probably too radical. For the long term, creating a powerful tourism authority is a move President Duterte ought to consider to make things right in the tourism industry so that the Boracay problem doesn’t happen again.
ROW problems
NGCP sent word they are ready to cooperate with the completion of the San Miguel connector road project. They have, in fact, bought the materials needed to relocate their posts. What they don’t have is right of way.
The steel poles, power conductors, insulators have arrived and are awaiting deployment, I am told. According to NGCP, the only reason things aren’t moving is because there were many notices of award revisions. Authorities keep on changing the sites NGCP will move to. Worse, any change in pole alignment may affect the pole line hardware NGCP is procuring.
The TRB-PNR MOA to allow NGCP pole relocation near the PNR tracks is ON HOLD. PNR wants to construct a new office in the Pandacan station area.
Apparently, DPWH is not to blame for this problem, but DOTr. The ROW problem is now between two government agencies, TRB and PNR, both under DOTr Sec. Art Tugade. Because of the delay, standby costs are being incurred and no one wants to assume responsibility.
It will be fair to say Sec. Tugade is delaying a vital infra project through his indecision. This is a project that will relieve some of our traffic problems, which is also Tugade’s responsibility.
Hay naku! Secretary Tugade... Anuba? Hoy, Gising!
Saturday, March 17, 2018
Duterte takes aim at the press, testing the foundations of Philippine democracy
When one of the Philippines' most prominent journalists is not busy running a newsroom, she is busy wondering about her next day in court.
Maria Ressa, a former CNN bureau chief who founded a successful digital news start-up, Rappler, is more accustomed to sitting on panels about press freedom than preparing for possible arrest.
But ever since President Rodrigo Duterte railed against her company in a state-of-the-nation speech last year, the walls have been closing in. Rappler was called out by the president. Investigated. Called out again. Investigated again. "It's a blatant abuse of power," Ressa said.
Ressa and Rappler are at the center of a fight over the future of press freedom in the Philippines that is testing the foundations of Philippine democracy.
It is a fight that resonates far beyond this U.S. ally, as the world comes to grips with a new breed of populist authoritarians who bask in positive coverage and decry the rest as "fake news."
When President Donald Trump met Duterte in Manila last November, for instance, the Philippine president called reporters trying to ask questions about human rights "spies." Trump's response? A laugh, according to the transcript.
Duterte was elected in 2016 on a promise to kill suspected drug users and dealers. In the nearly two years since, thousands and thousands have indeed been shot. The violence has spurred global condemnation and a preliminary examination by the International Criminal Court, but domestic opposition has been weak.
Duterte largely controls his country's Congress, Senate, Supreme Court and national security forces. The Philippines' vibrant press was the last bastion of open debate about the "war on drugs." Now that is under threat, too.
In Manila, there is a growing sense that the institutions of Philippine democracy are giving way as Duterte's rule becomes increasingly personalized and authoritarian.
"I am very worried," said John Nery, associate editor and opinion columnist at the Philippine Daily Inquirer, one of the country's largest newspapers. "It's at the point where Duterte, confronting a journalist, said, 'Press freedom is a privilege in a democracy.' But it's one of our very first freedoms."
Like populist authoritarian leaders elsewhere, Duterte has a complicated relationship with the media — courting it when convenient and targeting it when not.
As the mayor of the southern city of Davao and then as a presidential candidate, he relied on coverage of his violent and misogynistic rhetoric to help build his macho persona and keep him in the news. As president, he has enjoyed the spotlight, his every speech and rude retort live-streamed to the world.
But he also has railed against the press in ways that are revealing — and deeply worrying to reporters and editors.
The Philippines has long been a dangerous place to be journalist; since 1986, 177 media workers have been killed here.
As president-elect, Duterte said murdered journalists must have "done something" to meet a violent end. "You won't be killed if you don't do anything wrong," he said.
Journalists who "disrespect" others are not necessarily protected from violent attacks, he said. "That can't be just freedom of speech. The constitution can no longer help you if you disrespect a person."
Since taking office, Duterte has threatened to block the franchise renewal of ABS-CBN, a major television station that has at times has been critical of police-led violence linked to his anti-drug campaign. He also has taken aim at the Philippine Daily Inquirer's coverage. "I'm not trying to scare you, but one day karma will catch up with you," the president warned both outlets in March 2017.
Months later, the Inquirer's owner said it would sell its stake to a billionaire ally of the president, a move seen by local and foreign analysts as a forced retreat.
"The sale of the Inquirer to a businessman friend of Duterte is worrying," Ressa said. "The Inquirer has weathered other administrations. Here it buckled without firing a shot."
Reporters, rights groups and foreign diplomats said that media outlets are now worried about becoming his next target if — as Duterte put it — they get too "rude."
For Ressa and Rappler, the trouble began around the time of the 2016 presidential election, when Ressa and others started getting harassed and threatened by pro-Duterte social media accounts.
This was not ordinary Internet harassment but coordinated streams of messages, including death and rape threats, that the organization has since traced back to Facebook groups and blogs that helped get Duterte elected.
Ressa calls it the "weaponization" of social media.
"It created a chilling effect on journalists, critics, any person who questions the extrajudicial killings," she said.
In July 2017, Duterte used his first state-of-the-nation address to call out Rappler, implying without citing evidence that it was not Filipino-owned.
The country's Securities and Exchange Commission opened an investigation into Rappler's ownership structure. By January, the commission had revoked Rappler's license — a speedy decision that was denounced by journalists and rights groups as political. Rappler has continued to operate while an appeal is being heard.
The move against Rappler "was politically motivated," said one senior Western diplomat in Manila who was not authorized to speak to the media and spoke on the condition of anonymity. "The case is a bit complicated, but to come up with a ruling that quick has never been done."
Soon after, Rappler's star political reporter, Pia Ranada, was blocked from covering presidential events. The Duterte administration first said it was due to the revocation but later admitted that Duterte was simply "irritated" at her.
A presidential security official later said Ranada should consider herself lucky that security personnel did not hurt her when she was "disrespectful" to the guard who turned her away an event.
Most recently, with the Securities and Exchange Commission case at the court of appeals, the government announced it is investigating Rappler for allegedly evading $2.5 million in taxes. Ressa called the move "ludicrous."
Duterte's government insists it has nothing to do with the cases filed against Rappler but continues to call its reports "fake news." After calling press freedom a privilege, Duterte said in January, "You have overused and abused that privilege."
"If rule of law existed, no cases would be filed," countered Ressa. "It's another mark against democracy."
Maria Ressa, a former CNN bureau chief who founded a successful digital news start-up, Rappler, is more accustomed to sitting on panels about press freedom than preparing for possible arrest.
But ever since President Rodrigo Duterte railed against her company in a state-of-the-nation speech last year, the walls have been closing in. Rappler was called out by the president. Investigated. Called out again. Investigated again. "It's a blatant abuse of power," Ressa said.
Ressa and Rappler are at the center of a fight over the future of press freedom in the Philippines that is testing the foundations of Philippine democracy.
It is a fight that resonates far beyond this U.S. ally, as the world comes to grips with a new breed of populist authoritarians who bask in positive coverage and decry the rest as "fake news."
When President Donald Trump met Duterte in Manila last November, for instance, the Philippine president called reporters trying to ask questions about human rights "spies." Trump's response? A laugh, according to the transcript.
Duterte was elected in 2016 on a promise to kill suspected drug users and dealers. In the nearly two years since, thousands and thousands have indeed been shot. The violence has spurred global condemnation and a preliminary examination by the International Criminal Court, but domestic opposition has been weak.
Duterte largely controls his country's Congress, Senate, Supreme Court and national security forces. The Philippines' vibrant press was the last bastion of open debate about the "war on drugs." Now that is under threat, too.
In Manila, there is a growing sense that the institutions of Philippine democracy are giving way as Duterte's rule becomes increasingly personalized and authoritarian.
"I am very worried," said John Nery, associate editor and opinion columnist at the Philippine Daily Inquirer, one of the country's largest newspapers. "It's at the point where Duterte, confronting a journalist, said, 'Press freedom is a privilege in a democracy.' But it's one of our very first freedoms."
Like populist authoritarian leaders elsewhere, Duterte has a complicated relationship with the media — courting it when convenient and targeting it when not.
As the mayor of the southern city of Davao and then as a presidential candidate, he relied on coverage of his violent and misogynistic rhetoric to help build his macho persona and keep him in the news. As president, he has enjoyed the spotlight, his every speech and rude retort live-streamed to the world.
But he also has railed against the press in ways that are revealing — and deeply worrying to reporters and editors.
The Philippines has long been a dangerous place to be journalist; since 1986, 177 media workers have been killed here.
As president-elect, Duterte said murdered journalists must have "done something" to meet a violent end. "You won't be killed if you don't do anything wrong," he said.
Journalists who "disrespect" others are not necessarily protected from violent attacks, he said. "That can't be just freedom of speech. The constitution can no longer help you if you disrespect a person."
Since taking office, Duterte has threatened to block the franchise renewal of ABS-CBN, a major television station that has at times has been critical of police-led violence linked to his anti-drug campaign. He also has taken aim at the Philippine Daily Inquirer's coverage. "I'm not trying to scare you, but one day karma will catch up with you," the president warned both outlets in March 2017.
Months later, the Inquirer's owner said it would sell its stake to a billionaire ally of the president, a move seen by local and foreign analysts as a forced retreat.
"The sale of the Inquirer to a businessman friend of Duterte is worrying," Ressa said. "The Inquirer has weathered other administrations. Here it buckled without firing a shot."
Reporters, rights groups and foreign diplomats said that media outlets are now worried about becoming his next target if — as Duterte put it — they get too "rude."
For Ressa and Rappler, the trouble began around the time of the 2016 presidential election, when Ressa and others started getting harassed and threatened by pro-Duterte social media accounts.
This was not ordinary Internet harassment but coordinated streams of messages, including death and rape threats, that the organization has since traced back to Facebook groups and blogs that helped get Duterte elected.
Ressa calls it the "weaponization" of social media.
"It created a chilling effect on journalists, critics, any person who questions the extrajudicial killings," she said.
In July 2017, Duterte used his first state-of-the-nation address to call out Rappler, implying without citing evidence that it was not Filipino-owned.
The country's Securities and Exchange Commission opened an investigation into Rappler's ownership structure. By January, the commission had revoked Rappler's license — a speedy decision that was denounced by journalists and rights groups as political. Rappler has continued to operate while an appeal is being heard.
The move against Rappler "was politically motivated," said one senior Western diplomat in Manila who was not authorized to speak to the media and spoke on the condition of anonymity. "The case is a bit complicated, but to come up with a ruling that quick has never been done."
Soon after, Rappler's star political reporter, Pia Ranada, was blocked from covering presidential events. The Duterte administration first said it was due to the revocation but later admitted that Duterte was simply "irritated" at her.
A presidential security official later said Ranada should consider herself lucky that security personnel did not hurt her when she was "disrespectful" to the guard who turned her away an event.
Most recently, with the Securities and Exchange Commission case at the court of appeals, the government announced it is investigating Rappler for allegedly evading $2.5 million in taxes. Ressa called the move "ludicrous."
Duterte's government insists it has nothing to do with the cases filed against Rappler but continues to call its reports "fake news." After calling press freedom a privilege, Duterte said in January, "You have overused and abused that privilege."
"If rule of law existed, no cases would be filed," countered Ressa. "It's another mark against democracy."
Bianca Umali marks milestone
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| Bianca Umali |
This is only the second time that Bianca is celebrating her birthday with a big party (the first was when she turned seven) and so she practically did all the planning and execution of the details. “Once in a lifetime lang kasi ang debut so its really very special.” She will be wearing gowns by Dubai-based Filipino designer Fay Reyes.
Participating in the 18 Candles are family and friends. In the 18 Roses, among them are Miguel Tanfelix, Joey Abacan and Ryan Agoncillo. Her first dance will be with Joey Abacan (who is like a father to her) and her last dance will be with her perennial screen partner Miguel.
Now that she’s an adult, Bianca looks forward to more challenges and growth in her showbiz career. It doesn’t mean however that she will doing more mature roles. “No mature roles naman agad, gusto ko dahan-dahan lang. But I expect to do out-of-the-box roles. Im sure there will be different projects for me this year.”
Bianca will continue working on her advocacies, especially education. In 2016, she and Miguel participated in the “Pass A Book Ni Biguel” project wherein they invited their followers to donate pre-loved books which will be donated to chosen public schools. In 2017, Bianca was hailed as World Vision Ambassador for Education.
Now that she enters adulthood, Bianca promises to do more of what is expected of her.
“I am entering the adult life and that is a bit intimidating, but if I keep learning and getting support from the people I love, I don’t have to worry. I have goals I want to achieve and I’m excited to discover more of myself as I accomplish each of them.”
• • •
Timely topic
It’s very timely the topic being tackled in the Kapuso Primetime show “Sherlock Jr.” which is the millennials’ fondness with chatting on the internet. Marc Abaya’s character is the “killer chat mate” who Jack (Ruru Madrid) and Pido (Andre Paras) are looking for.
Being victimized are young girls chatting with new friends on the internet, the latest of whom is Jack’s sister Jenny (Kate Valdez). Will Jack and Pido be able to catch “killer chat mate?”
“Sherlock Jr” airs weeknights after “24 Oras” ON GMA Telebabad.
• • •
Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 17, go to former Mayor Jerry Pelayo, Ronnie Salonga, Maria Lanot, Brenda Reyes, Tony Bernal, Cielo Rivera, Teri Maniquis, Dr. Elmo Belaro, Pat Camacho, Menchie Osial, Ma. Jocelyn Bordador, Tessie Villarama, Paolo Bediones and Arnell Ignacio…Happy wedding anniversary to Jonee Berwyn and Antonio Procalla… March 18: Former Pres. Fidel V. Ramos, Celeste Legaspi, Lara Chica, Diana Go, Jose Antonio Recio, Patricia Bata, Erlinda Sabido, Wilfredo Gerilla, Robert Tabor III, Eden Dandan, Baby K. Jimenez and Gian Sotto…March 19: Girlie Rodis, Joey Albert, Kaj Rebano, Josie Vergel de Dios, Josie Tobias, Juna Cadungog, Oteph Antipolo, Nena Sunico, Jocelyn Gerilla, Tina Tolentino, Joy Conde Cruz, Carlos Marcillus Funelas, Mon Confiado, Joyce Liquicia and Julia Montes…
Friday, March 16, 2018
Sony DVW-970 2/3-Inch 3-CCD Digital Betacam Camcorder, Widescreen Switchable, 1000 Horizontal Lines Resolution
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| Sony DVW-970 2/3-Inch 3-CCD Digital Betacam Camcorder, Widescreen Switchable, 1000 Horizontal Lines Resolution |
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| VariZoom VZSPGC Zoom and Focus Lens Control Kit |
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| Axler Portable Medium Duty Shooting Riser (4 x 4’) |
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| Pearstone PSL-3S 3-Step HD Photographers Ladder with Wheels |
The new 96.3 Easy Rock is
The new #1 lite rock radio FM as 96.3 Easy Rock, Just the Rite Rock with its provincial Mega Manila, Laoag, Tuguegarao, Baguio, Dagupan, Urdaneta, Pampanga, Tarlac, Cabanatuan, Olongapo, Subic, Balanga, San Pablo, Batangas, Lipa, Lucena, Daet, Naga, Legazpi, Palawan, Cebu, Dumaguete, Iloilo, Kalibo, Boracay, Roxas, Bacolod, Tacloban, Ormoc, Calbayog, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Gingoog, General Santos, Koronadal, Cotabato, Kidapawan, Butuan, Surigao, Tandag, Bislig, Dipolog, Pagadian and Zamboanga.
Format
Adult Contemporary/Smooth Jazz/Soft Rock/AMR
Easy Rock presents the cream of adult contemporary music from the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, 2000s and 2010s in a soothing mix with downtempo, trip hop and house, indie pop, easy listening, adult contemporary format "Smooth Jazz", soft rock hits and rhythmic alternative sounds, while accommodating today's powerful ballads and lust vocal melodies and even some Original Pilipino Music (OPM) hits.
Target Audience
With its format as adult contemporary, smooth jazz, pop rock and soft rock our sights trained on the C1 and broad C2 markets, Easy Rock's programming directly targets car owners, young executives, and working class professionals, particularly office employees and those working in establishments with middle class to posh backgrounds such as the banks and boutiques.
The primary market includes those between 30-40 years old, and people who are older but still prefer listening to a station with a soft, adult contemporary and smooth jazz format. Following the introduction of more current easy-listening hit tunes, we expect an expanded audience range to include the 20-30 age bracket.
While the station caters to both men and women, female listeners slightly outnumber the males.
Playlists
On the songs play lite rock music, mostly the songs are foreign music, as well as its playing OPM songs in both English and Tagalog which is playing soothing, it so relaxing.
Programming
For radio listeners at work or on the road, the perfect soundtrack for the officer or inside the car. This increasing Easy Rock's ratings and now earning the #1 Lite Rock Music Station in Mega Manila.
Brand
Consistent with the established brand of WRock, which is “less talk, less noise, more music,” Easy Rock is generally an easy-listening station pleasant- sounding throughout the day, with “noise” kept at an acceptable level. Songs are relaxing and set the mood, but are very engaging and popular. A select core of English-speaking DJs match the educated and aspirational Cl and C2 audiences.
DJs
Easy Rock have four DJ’s namely Samantha and Chloe.
- Samantha (Weekdays 6-10 am and Saturdays 6-9am)
- Chloe (Weekdays 10 am-2 pm)
- Nick (Weekdays 2-6 pm)
- Jay (Weekdays 6-10 pm)
Original programs they have are RST on Mondays (6am-7pm), Friday Classics on Fridays (6 am-7 pm) and Sunday Difference on Sundays (6am-7pm).
These Dj’s are very good mainly English speaking, they also use Filipino words to connect to listeners.
Program Schedule
ORIGINAL
- RST is a flagship program aired every Monday, a program that playing a selected romantic mix of pure hit classic love songs from the 60, 70s, 80s, 90s, early 2000s and 2010s in a favorite classic songs from soft rock, alternative rock and pop rock songs, also with classic love songs and selected OPM classics. Since its launch, Remember Someone Today has been the station's most sought-after highly-rated program.
- Friday Classics is a special program on Friday featuring a steady mix of disco, pop, rock and new wave from the 60, 70s, 80s and 90s as well as timeless hits with classic pop rock and classic love songs.
- Sunday Difference offers a choice selection of all-time favorites, keeping the music sultry and sweet, with hits from today's finest female vocal stylists with some OPM music.
- 6 am-7 pm DJ: RST
- 6 am-6 pm DJ: All Day Easy
- 6 am-7 pm DJ: Friday Classics
- 6 am-7 pm DJ: Sunday Difference
- 6 pm-6 am DJ: Lite All Nite
- Pop-Up Tunes allows listeners to savor rare cuts and old favorites you thought you'd never hear again.
- Hot Lites features the latest releases from the local and international artist
- Celebrity 360 livens up your Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in our 4-times-a-week through bare-all interviews with your favorite artist
Stations
- DWRK 96.3 Mega Manila
- DWZA 91.5 Laoag
- DZXM 95.7 Vigan
- DWLO 94.5 La Union
- DWBB 103.5 Alaminos
- DZED 107.1 Dagupan
- DZST 91.9 Baguio
- DZTK 92.9 Tabuk, Kalinga
- DYEY 93.5 Boracay
- DZEY 102.5 Tuguegarao
- DZCY 98.5 Cauayan
- DZGG 96.9 Baler, Aurora
- DWEO 97.1 Calamba
- DWEY 95.9 Lucena
- DWRE 102.5 Iriga
- DWEO 96.5 Naga
- DWMR 97.9 Legazpi
- DWMD 102.3 Masbate
- DYRT 95.9 Calinog, Iloilo
- DZRK 93.5 Puerto Princesa
- DZMU 97.9 Rio Tuba, Palawan
- DWPP 103.5 Coron, Palawan
- DWNR 105.5 Kalayaan, Palawan
- DYMT 89.3 Kalibo
- DYNO 106.5 Antique
- DYMD 94.1 Sipalay
- DYST 92.3 Iloilo
- DYMY 105.5 Bacolod
- DYPN 97.3 Murcia, Negros Occidental
- DYDT 99.5 Dumaguete
- DYTC 102.7 Cebu
- DYDT 99.5 Dumaguete
- DYEE 95.1 Tagbilaran
- DYPM 96.7 Tacloban
- DYDW 91.1 Maasin
- DYZO 104.1 Catarman
- DYRY 99.7 Catbalogan
- DXEN 103.7 Surigao
- DXZQ 94.7 Zamboanga
- DXKS 96.9 Cagayan de Oro
- DXTM 93.3 Ozamiz
- DXXX 89.7 Maramag
- DXYS 105.1 Davao
- DXEG 104.7 General Santos
- DXMC 99.9 Kiamba
- DXMK 95.7 Cotabato
- DXCY 89.7 Agusan del Sur
- DXCC 94.4 Bislig, Surigao Del Sur
- DXXC 99.9 Tawi-Tawi
Assessment on MRT3’s 48 Dalian trains complete
The audit and assessment of TUV Rheinland on the 48 Dalian trains for Metro Rail Transit 3 have been “substantially completed, but not yet concluded,” the Department of Transportation yesterday announced.
TUV Rheinland was the independent certified certifier contracted to audit and assess the entire MRT-3 system in general, and the Dalian trains in particular.
According to TUV Rheinland’s Interim Report, additional information and documentation on design and validation evidence are still being obtained, and further type and routine tests are still to be conducted.
Among the tests that TUV Rheinland recommended to be conducted is a weighing test of the Dalian trains in Manila, because the previous project team for the project failed to attend and witness the weight testing done in Dalian, China in November, 2015.
According to TUV Rheinland, the weighing test should be done to eliminate any doubts, and so DOTr MRT-3 can witness and formally sign off on the trains’ weight.
Assessing the Dalian trains’ safety, compatibility with MRT-3, and compliance with their Terms of Reference, through a highly qualified, independent, and ISO certified certifier, with extensive experience in the certification of trains, has always been the DOTr’s approach in resolving the Dalian trains issue, which is consistent with prudent international industry practice.
Knowing that the Dalian trains will affect the safety of hundreds of thousands of MRT-3 passengers daily, the DOTr and MRT-3 management will ensure that the necessary processes are observed in their assessment.
Regardless of the independent assessment’s outcome, this administration remains committed in running after the officials that caused the current degraded state of MRT-3.
TUV Rheinland was the independent certified certifier contracted to audit and assess the entire MRT-3 system in general, and the Dalian trains in particular.
According to TUV Rheinland’s Interim Report, additional information and documentation on design and validation evidence are still being obtained, and further type and routine tests are still to be conducted.
Among the tests that TUV Rheinland recommended to be conducted is a weighing test of the Dalian trains in Manila, because the previous project team for the project failed to attend and witness the weight testing done in Dalian, China in November, 2015.
According to TUV Rheinland, the weighing test should be done to eliminate any doubts, and so DOTr MRT-3 can witness and formally sign off on the trains’ weight.
Assessing the Dalian trains’ safety, compatibility with MRT-3, and compliance with their Terms of Reference, through a highly qualified, independent, and ISO certified certifier, with extensive experience in the certification of trains, has always been the DOTr’s approach in resolving the Dalian trains issue, which is consistent with prudent international industry practice.
Knowing that the Dalian trains will affect the safety of hundreds of thousands of MRT-3 passengers daily, the DOTr and MRT-3 management will ensure that the necessary processes are observed in their assessment.
Regardless of the independent assessment’s outcome, this administration remains committed in running after the officials that caused the current degraded state of MRT-3.
Thursday, March 15, 2018
‘My Perfect You,’ Cathy Molina’s first of last five films
Filmmaker Cathy Garcia-Molina will soon bid goodbye to show business after 25 years. And the countdown of the last five movies she’ll helm begins with “My Perfect You” which opened yesterday in nationwide cinemas.
Star Cinema will miss a brilliant director in Cathy, but as she explained at the press conference of “My Perfect You” recently she’ll devote much of her time to her children after she completes her remaining four movies (and who knows she might get hitched again, too).
Her next project is the much-awaited Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernado movie.
“Dapat last film ko na ito but then may promise lang na gagawin ko ’yung KathNiel (movie). So four more to go. Hanggang August 2019 lang ibinigay ko,” she said.
“My Perfect You,” she said, was a revelation regarding actor Gerald Anderson and first time lead actress Pia Wurtzbach. She was vocal that she didn’t like Gerald’s acting except for his portrayal in “Always Be My Maybe.” And with Pia, she didn’t know anything about her acting skills.
Cathy said Gerald gave much effort on her requirement which was not to see any remnants of Gerald Anderson, the actor! “Wala nga akong nakitang Gerald. Meron kaming isang eksenang kinunan, ’yung ending, at take one siya! Tapos may nakita ako sa kanya – si John Lloyd (Cruz)! I don’t know if it’s a good thing or bad thing for Gerald, but it’s a performance, a sincere performance that I only get from a John Lloyd.”
For Pia, she had her do a scene which in her past projects was assigned to high caliber actresses or actors. “Sabi ko, ‘Naku delikado ito.’ Kasi mga magagaling lang na artista ang may kayang gumawa nito. But she delivered!”
For the director, Pia was an empty canvass. But the actress was able to show her range as actress. “I’m very happy because they exceeded my expectations… I’m looking forward to seeing them do more movies not necessarily with me kasi konting pelikula na lang ang gagawin ko. But to see Pia and Gerald on their own, marami silang kakabugin,” she stressed.
• • •
Glaiza topbills ‘Contessa’
GMA Network presents soon the newest addition to its top-rating Afternoon Prime lineup, “Contessa,” with Glaiza de Castro playing the title role. The drama series airs March 19 at 2:30 p.m.
Glaiza who plays Contessa/Beatrice “Bea” Resureccion said she feels grateful that she was chosen for the coveted role. “Sobrang honored ako. The role is challenging at napakalaking responsibility siya. It just means na ganun kalaki ang tiwala sa akin ng GMA and I appreciate it na binibigyan nila ako ng important projects that will hone my acting skill.”
Playing Contessa’s leading men are Geoff Eigenmann and Jak Roberto. Also in the cast are Gabby Eigenmann, Lauren Young, Mark Herras, Chanda Romero, Tetchie Agbayani, Leandro Baldemor, Dominic Roco, Bernadette Allyson, Melissa Mendez, Karel Marquez, Phytos Ramirez, Denise Barbacena, and Will Ashley.
“Contessa” is directed by Albert Langitan.
• • •
Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 15, go to Teena Sarino, Cecille Limjoco, Linda Pasco, Tita Ejercito, Arnold Baldecanas, Remy Mercado, Ray Sampilo, Gabb Drilon, Bojo Molina, and Jolo Revilla… March 16: Kuh Ledesma, Becca Godinez, Butch Liwanag, Mary Grace Tan, Charlene Tabora, Josie Bernardo, Lovella Cardenas, Paw Diaz, Abraham Gumatay Ariel Antonio, and Arch. Jun Palafox Jr…
Star Cinema will miss a brilliant director in Cathy, but as she explained at the press conference of “My Perfect You” recently she’ll devote much of her time to her children after she completes her remaining four movies (and who knows she might get hitched again, too).
Her next project is the much-awaited Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernado movie.
“Dapat last film ko na ito but then may promise lang na gagawin ko ’yung KathNiel (movie). So four more to go. Hanggang August 2019 lang ibinigay ko,” she said.
“My Perfect You,” she said, was a revelation regarding actor Gerald Anderson and first time lead actress Pia Wurtzbach. She was vocal that she didn’t like Gerald’s acting except for his portrayal in “Always Be My Maybe.” And with Pia, she didn’t know anything about her acting skills.
Cathy said Gerald gave much effort on her requirement which was not to see any remnants of Gerald Anderson, the actor! “Wala nga akong nakitang Gerald. Meron kaming isang eksenang kinunan, ’yung ending, at take one siya! Tapos may nakita ako sa kanya – si John Lloyd (Cruz)! I don’t know if it’s a good thing or bad thing for Gerald, but it’s a performance, a sincere performance that I only get from a John Lloyd.”
For Pia, she had her do a scene which in her past projects was assigned to high caliber actresses or actors. “Sabi ko, ‘Naku delikado ito.’ Kasi mga magagaling lang na artista ang may kayang gumawa nito. But she delivered!”
For the director, Pia was an empty canvass. But the actress was able to show her range as actress. “I’m very happy because they exceeded my expectations… I’m looking forward to seeing them do more movies not necessarily with me kasi konting pelikula na lang ang gagawin ko. But to see Pia and Gerald on their own, marami silang kakabugin,” she stressed.
• • •
Glaiza topbills ‘Contessa’
GMA Network presents soon the newest addition to its top-rating Afternoon Prime lineup, “Contessa,” with Glaiza de Castro playing the title role. The drama series airs March 19 at 2:30 p.m.
Glaiza who plays Contessa/Beatrice “Bea” Resureccion said she feels grateful that she was chosen for the coveted role. “Sobrang honored ako. The role is challenging at napakalaking responsibility siya. It just means na ganun kalaki ang tiwala sa akin ng GMA and I appreciate it na binibigyan nila ako ng important projects that will hone my acting skill.”
Playing Contessa’s leading men are Geoff Eigenmann and Jak Roberto. Also in the cast are Gabby Eigenmann, Lauren Young, Mark Herras, Chanda Romero, Tetchie Agbayani, Leandro Baldemor, Dominic Roco, Bernadette Allyson, Melissa Mendez, Karel Marquez, Phytos Ramirez, Denise Barbacena, and Will Ashley.
“Contessa” is directed by Albert Langitan.
• • •
Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 15, go to Teena Sarino, Cecille Limjoco, Linda Pasco, Tita Ejercito, Arnold Baldecanas, Remy Mercado, Ray Sampilo, Gabb Drilon, Bojo Molina, and Jolo Revilla… March 16: Kuh Ledesma, Becca Godinez, Butch Liwanag, Mary Grace Tan, Charlene Tabora, Josie Bernardo, Lovella Cardenas, Paw Diaz, Abraham Gumatay Ariel Antonio, and Arch. Jun Palafox Jr…
Wednesday, March 14, 2018
More tests needed for 48 Dalian trains: DOTr
More tests are needed to determine the suitability to the tracks of the 48 trains that were purchased from Dalian CCRC for the Metro Rail Transit 3 (MRT-3).
In a statement, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said that in the interim report of TUV Rheinland, the independent certifier contracted to audit and assess the entire MRT-3 system and the Dalian trains, a weighing test of the Dalian trains is recommended “because the previous project team for the project failed to attend and witness the weight testing done in China in November 2015”.
“According to TUV Rheinland, the weighing test should be done to eliminate any doubts, and so DOTr MRT-3 can witness and formally sign off on the trains’ weight,” the DOTr said.
Additional information and documentation on the design of the trains are still being obtained while further type and routine tests are still to be conducted, based on TUV Rheinland’s interim report.
The DOTr said it would wait for the final report of the auditing firm and apply its recommendations as it takes the necessary steps to assess the functionality and safety of the Dalian trains.
“Assessing the Dalian trains’ safety, compatibility with MRT-3, and compliance with their Terms of Reference, through a highly qualified, independent, and ISO certified certifier, with extensive experience in the certification of trains, has always been the DOTr’s approach in resolving the Dalian trains issue, which is consistent with prudent international industry practice. Knowing that the Dalian trains will affect the safety of hundreds of thousands of MRT-3 passengers daily, the DOTr and MRT-3 management will ensure that the necessary processes are observed in their assessment,” the department said.
“We will not leave stones unturned, especially on the issue of safety. We will do it right this time,” it added.
Concerns were raised earlier with the 48 Dalian cars or light rail vehicles procured by the previous administration for PHP3.8 billion after they exceeded the weight prescribed. Compatibility with the MRT-3’s maintenance facilities and signaling system were also an issue.
DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade has earlier said that MRT operations is expected to improve by April or May as spare parts which are necessary for the increase in the number of running trains are set to arrive in the country.
In a statement, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said that in the interim report of TUV Rheinland, the independent certifier contracted to audit and assess the entire MRT-3 system and the Dalian trains, a weighing test of the Dalian trains is recommended “because the previous project team for the project failed to attend and witness the weight testing done in China in November 2015”.
“According to TUV Rheinland, the weighing test should be done to eliminate any doubts, and so DOTr MRT-3 can witness and formally sign off on the trains’ weight,” the DOTr said.
Additional information and documentation on the design of the trains are still being obtained while further type and routine tests are still to be conducted, based on TUV Rheinland’s interim report.
The DOTr said it would wait for the final report of the auditing firm and apply its recommendations as it takes the necessary steps to assess the functionality and safety of the Dalian trains.
“Assessing the Dalian trains’ safety, compatibility with MRT-3, and compliance with their Terms of Reference, through a highly qualified, independent, and ISO certified certifier, with extensive experience in the certification of trains, has always been the DOTr’s approach in resolving the Dalian trains issue, which is consistent with prudent international industry practice. Knowing that the Dalian trains will affect the safety of hundreds of thousands of MRT-3 passengers daily, the DOTr and MRT-3 management will ensure that the necessary processes are observed in their assessment,” the department said.
“We will not leave stones unturned, especially on the issue of safety. We will do it right this time,” it added.
Concerns were raised earlier with the 48 Dalian cars or light rail vehicles procured by the previous administration for PHP3.8 billion after they exceeded the weight prescribed. Compatibility with the MRT-3’s maintenance facilities and signaling system were also an issue.
DOTr Secretary Arthur Tugade has earlier said that MRT operations is expected to improve by April or May as spare parts which are necessary for the increase in the number of running trains are set to arrive in the country.
INA, KAPATID, ANAK
In the movie version,
"Uulan ng bala sa kasal ni Celyn dahil sa pagdating ni Ethan"
"Uulan ng bala sa kasal ni Celyn dahil sa pagdating ni Ethan"
TUV Rheinland wants MRT3’s Dalian coaches weighed
TUV Rheinland, the German consultant tapped by the Department of Transportation (DOTr), wants to conduct a weight-testing on the 48 unused Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs) delivered by Chinese firm CRRC-Dalian Co. Ltd. for the Metro Rail Transit Line 3.
In a statement on Tuesday, the DOTr said that TUV Rheinland recommended weighing the Dalian trains in Manila as the previous project team failed to attend and witness the same test supposedly done in Dalian, China in November 2015.
“According to TUV Rheinland, the weighing ... should be done to eliminate any doubts, and so DOTr MRT3 can witness and formally sign off on the trains’ weight,” the department said.
The German consultant made the recommendation in its interim audit report, noting that additional information and documentation on design and validation evidence are still being obtained and further type and routine tests are still to be conducted.
Transportation Undersecretary for Rails Timothy John Batan said the DOTr, MRT3, and CRRC Dalian will arrange for a weight test in Manila so all concerned representatives can witness and observe the actual test.
Concerns were raised with the 48 LRVs procured by the Aquino administration for P3.8 billion after they exceeded the weight of 46,300 kilograms prescribed in the terms of reference. What CRRC-Dalian delivered reached 49,600 kgs.
Apart from the weight, the trains seem to be incompatible with the MRT3’s maintenance facilities and signaling system.
“Assessing the Dalian trains’ safety, compatibility with MRT3, and compliance with their terms of reference, through a highly qualified, independent, and ISO certified certifier, with extensive experience in the certification of trains, has always been the DOTr’s approach in resolving the Dalian trains issue, which is consistent with prudent international industry practice,” the department said.
TUV Rheinland was hired to audit and assess the entire MRT3 system in general and the Dalian trains in particular.
“Knowing that the Dalian trains will affect the safety of hundreds of thousands of MRT3 passengers daily, the DOTr and MRT3 management will ensure that the necessary processes are observed in their assessment,” the DOTr said.
“Regardless of the independent assessment’s outcome, this administration remains committed in running after the officials that caused the current degraded state of MRT3,” it said.
In November 2017, the DOTr filed a plunder complaint with the Office of the Ombudsman against then-Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya, former Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II, and former Budget Secretary Florencio Abad for supposedly entering an anomalous P3.8-billion maintenance contract for MRT3. —Ted Cordero/VDS, GMA News
In a statement on Tuesday, the DOTr said that TUV Rheinland recommended weighing the Dalian trains in Manila as the previous project team failed to attend and witness the same test supposedly done in Dalian, China in November 2015.
“According to TUV Rheinland, the weighing ... should be done to eliminate any doubts, and so DOTr MRT3 can witness and formally sign off on the trains’ weight,” the department said.
The German consultant made the recommendation in its interim audit report, noting that additional information and documentation on design and validation evidence are still being obtained and further type and routine tests are still to be conducted.
Transportation Undersecretary for Rails Timothy John Batan said the DOTr, MRT3, and CRRC Dalian will arrange for a weight test in Manila so all concerned representatives can witness and observe the actual test.
Concerns were raised with the 48 LRVs procured by the Aquino administration for P3.8 billion after they exceeded the weight of 46,300 kilograms prescribed in the terms of reference. What CRRC-Dalian delivered reached 49,600 kgs.
Apart from the weight, the trains seem to be incompatible with the MRT3’s maintenance facilities and signaling system.
“Assessing the Dalian trains’ safety, compatibility with MRT3, and compliance with their terms of reference, through a highly qualified, independent, and ISO certified certifier, with extensive experience in the certification of trains, has always been the DOTr’s approach in resolving the Dalian trains issue, which is consistent with prudent international industry practice,” the department said.
TUV Rheinland was hired to audit and assess the entire MRT3 system in general and the Dalian trains in particular.
“Knowing that the Dalian trains will affect the safety of hundreds of thousands of MRT3 passengers daily, the DOTr and MRT3 management will ensure that the necessary processes are observed in their assessment,” the DOTr said.
“Regardless of the independent assessment’s outcome, this administration remains committed in running after the officials that caused the current degraded state of MRT3,” it said.
In November 2017, the DOTr filed a plunder complaint with the Office of the Ombudsman against then-Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya, former Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas II, and former Budget Secretary Florencio Abad for supposedly entering an anomalous P3.8-billion maintenance contract for MRT3. —Ted Cordero/VDS, GMA News
Tuesday, March 13, 2018
DOTr: More tests needed on 48 Chinese-made coaches for MRT 3
 |
| A prototype of the Chinese-made Dalian coaches (Photo from the Department of Transportation) |
More tests would have to be conducted on 48 Chinese-made Dalian train coaches, which were bought under the Aquino III administration, before they could be used by Metro Rail Transit 3, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said on Tuesday.
The DOTr made the announcement three days after the report by independent audit firm TUV Rheinland was supposed to have come out.
The release of the report is expected to pave the way for the rollout of the coaches, which have been gathering dust for over a year now at the MRT 3 depot.
The firm’s assessment has been “substantially completed,” according to the DOTr.
But according to TUV Rheinland‘s interim report, which has been submitted to the DOTr, there’s still a need to gather “additional information on design and validation evidence.”
There‘s also a need to conduct more “type and routine tests” on the coaches, made by the CRRC Dalian Co. Ltd.
One of the tests that the audit firm recommended deals with the weight of the coaches.
The DOTr said this test would be needed since “the previous project team failed to attend and witness the weight testing done in Dalian, China, in November 2015.”
“He weighing test should be done to eliminate any doubts, and so DOTr MRT 3 can witness and formally sign off on the trains’ weight,” the DOTr said.
Earlier, rail officials pointed out that the P3.8-billion coaches were overweight by at least 3 tons.
In the contract, the DOTr specified coaches weighing 46.3 tons each. But those that were delivered weighed 49.7 tons each.
During a recent Senate committee hearing, former MRT consultant Rolf Bieri pointed out that the DOTr also specified that the trains should have an axle weight of up to 10 tons.
By his calculations, he noted that the Dalian trains would still be within the allowable limit even if it were to be fully loaded with passengers.
Still, the DOTr maintained that it had to be thorough to ensure that the Dalian trains would safe and compatible with the MRT 3 system before it could be used by the public.
“Knowing that the Dalian trains will affect the safety of hundreds of thousands of MRT 3 passengers daily, the DOTr and MRT 3 management will ensure that the necessary processes are observed in their (TUV Rheinland’s) assessment,” the DOTr said. “Regardless of the independent assessment’s outcome, this administration remains committed in running after the officials that caused the current degraded state of MRT 3.”
The DOTr did not say, however, when the weight test on the trains to be held in Manila would be done and when the full audit report could be expected to be submitted.
The rollout of the 48 Dalian train coaches, all fully delivered in January last year, could significantly improve the reliability of the country’s busiest train line, which is currently down to just 10 operational trains. /atm
Read more: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/974961/dotr-more-tests-needed-on-48-chinese-made-coaches-for-mrt-3#ixzz59d64LnDm
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Tagum sets gaze on “future perfect” as it celebrates 20th cityhood anniversary
By Tagum City Information Office
TAGUM CITY -- Preparing itself for a “future perfect” as it marches towards becoming a highly-urbanized city, this booming Mindanao city in Metropolitan Davao marked its 20th cityhood anniversary with a show of force, projecting a united Tagumenyo community ready to brace for the future.
A mammoth crowd of 37,000 Tagumenyos participated in this year’s civic and military parade in commemoration of the foundation of Tagum as a component city last March 7, 2018. This is a larger crowd compared to last year’s participants numbering to 30,000 only.
Mayor Allan L. Rellon, in his State of the City Address in the afternoon, rallied on Tagumenyos to continue pitching in their share to create a better future of Tagum.
This was the central theme of the local chief executive’s State of the City Address where he outlined the development of Tagum at all fronts, along with future plans aimed at intensifying infrastructure development to better project Tagum as an ideal hub for settlement and investment.
Mayor Rellon’s SOTCA, his fourth one since assuming the city’s highest post, was attended by local officials, members of the diplomatic corps, civic leaders, representatives of various national line agencies and the ordinary Tagumenyos.
A Musikahan International Convergence Concert was held after the SOTCA as a bold testament to the city’s readiness to embrace the international community in its goal of globalization. Performers from China, South Korea, South America, South Africa, Malaysia, Turkey, Germany and Japan participated in the concert.
The local government also rolled out the red carpet for the top individual and corporate taxpayers in the annual Tagumpay Awards, along with Ms. Julia Mica Serad and Ms. Kris Kyle Quinco who won medals in the World Championship for the Performing Arts held in California, USA.
The Tagum City Chamber Chorale was also awarded for winning Gold Diploma during the Sing N’ Pray International Chorale Competition held in Japan.
Serving as the guest of honor and keynote speaker during the 20th Araw ng Tagum was House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez who shared some details of the on-going projects and those that are in the pipeline that will help boost Tagum’s image as an emerging urban hub of Mindanao.
A grand fireworks display capped off the celebration, signaling the end of the city’s 5-in-1 International Celebration which included the Musikahan Festiva, among others.
This year’s celebration was made extra special as the city also marked 100 years since its founding as a municipal district of the undivided province of Davao on March 10, 1917. Louie Lapat/CIO Tagum
http://www.mindanaodailynews.com/tagum-sets-gaze-on-future-perfect-as-it-celebrates-20th-cityhood-anniversary/
TAGUM CITY -- Preparing itself for a “future perfect” as it marches towards becoming a highly-urbanized city, this booming Mindanao city in Metropolitan Davao marked its 20th cityhood anniversary with a show of force, projecting a united Tagumenyo community ready to brace for the future.
A mammoth crowd of 37,000 Tagumenyos participated in this year’s civic and military parade in commemoration of the foundation of Tagum as a component city last March 7, 2018. This is a larger crowd compared to last year’s participants numbering to 30,000 only.
Mayor Allan L. Rellon, in his State of the City Address in the afternoon, rallied on Tagumenyos to continue pitching in their share to create a better future of Tagum.
This was the central theme of the local chief executive’s State of the City Address where he outlined the development of Tagum at all fronts, along with future plans aimed at intensifying infrastructure development to better project Tagum as an ideal hub for settlement and investment.
Mayor Rellon’s SOTCA, his fourth one since assuming the city’s highest post, was attended by local officials, members of the diplomatic corps, civic leaders, representatives of various national line agencies and the ordinary Tagumenyos.
A Musikahan International Convergence Concert was held after the SOTCA as a bold testament to the city’s readiness to embrace the international community in its goal of globalization. Performers from China, South Korea, South America, South Africa, Malaysia, Turkey, Germany and Japan participated in the concert.
The local government also rolled out the red carpet for the top individual and corporate taxpayers in the annual Tagumpay Awards, along with Ms. Julia Mica Serad and Ms. Kris Kyle Quinco who won medals in the World Championship for the Performing Arts held in California, USA.
The Tagum City Chamber Chorale was also awarded for winning Gold Diploma during the Sing N’ Pray International Chorale Competition held in Japan.
Serving as the guest of honor and keynote speaker during the 20th Araw ng Tagum was House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez who shared some details of the on-going projects and those that are in the pipeline that will help boost Tagum’s image as an emerging urban hub of Mindanao.
A grand fireworks display capped off the celebration, signaling the end of the city’s 5-in-1 International Celebration which included the Musikahan Festiva, among others.
This year’s celebration was made extra special as the city also marked 100 years since its founding as a municipal district of the undivided province of Davao on March 10, 1917. Louie Lapat/CIO Tagum
http://www.mindanaodailynews.com/tagum-sets-gaze-on-future-perfect-as-it-celebrates-20th-cityhood-anniversary/
San Miguel unit to extend SLEx by 56 km to Lucena
The tollway unit of San Miguel Corp. said it is spending P14.85 billion to extend South Luzon Expressway by more than 56 kilometers from Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Tayabas, Quezon.
South Luzon Tollways Corp. said its board approved the implementation of all works for the SLEx Phase 2 Toll Road 4 project and the plan to negotiate with contractors for the engineering, procurement and construction contracts.
The project is a 56.87-kilometer, four-lane road from Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Tayabas/Lucena in Quezon.
The project is divided into five sections. Section 1 covers Sto. Tomas, Batangas to Macban, Laguna (11.32 km); Macban, Laguna to San Pablo City, Laguna (12.2 km); San Pablo, Laguna to Tiaong, Quezon (7.5-km); Tiaong to Candelaria, Quezon (15 km) and Candelaria to Tayabas/Lucena, Quezon (10.93 km).
SLTC said the project would reduce travel time along the 58-kilometer stretch between Sto. Tomas and Lucena from four hours to one hour.
The company said the project would enhance the economic efficiency of the existing SLEx, allowing to meet the increasing demand of traffic volume due to the rapid growth population, urbanization and economic development of Quezon province and adjoining provinces.
The project is expected to be completed by 2021.
The expansion to TR4 is a part of SLTC’s concession for a period of 30 years.
The SLEx-Toll Road 4 is the latest project in San Miguel’s infrastructure portfolio, which also includes the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway, the at-grade and elevated Skyway system and Skyway Stage 3, the Naia Expressway, the existing SLEx and the recently upgraded and expanded Southern Tagalog Arterial Road.
SLTC also submitted an unsolicited proposal to build a 29-kilometer toll road called the Tanauan-Tagaytay Expressway for P27 billion.
The proposed expressway is an extension of SLEx from Tanauan City, Batangas and passing through the municipalities of Silang, Amadeo and Indang in Cavite all the way to Tagaytay City.
Based on the designed of the proposed toll road, the project will have five interchange locations providing entry and exit access to SLEx including SLEx interchange, Calamba-Tagaytay Road, Sta. Rosa-Tagaytay Road, Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo Highway and Tagaytay-Nasugbu Highway.
SLTC reported a net income of P2.18 billion in January to September 2017, down from P2.58 billion in the same period in 2016. Revenue from toll operations rose 6.69 percent to P4.30 billion from P4.03 billion.
DOF: Japan to donate 27 heavy equipment to help rehab Marawi
THE Department of Finance (DOF) said Japan is set to turn over 27 units of heavy machinery to the Philippine government this month, to further help in the reconstruction and rehabilitation of Marawi City.
The DOF’s International Finance Group reported to Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III during its recent Executive Committee meeting that, aside from the 27 heavy machinery, 200 electric vehicles from an Asian Development Bank (ADB)-funded project of the Department of Energy will also be turned over to Task Force Bangon Marawi to help provide livelihood opportunities for residents in the conflict-torn city.
Japan’s donation of heavy equipment to Marawi City is part of Tokyo’s ¥2.5-billion or $22-million grant under the Philippine-Japan Economic and Social Development Program, which includes the support for the reconstruction of the city and the provision of coastal-monitoring radars to the Philippine Coast Guard.
During the fourth meeting of the Philippines-Japan High Level Committee on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation held in Cebu City in February, representatives of both countries discussed a proposed ¥2-billion or $18-million grant from Japan still in line with the rehabilitation of Marawi City.
“The turnover of equipment would be a symbol of Japan’s strong commitment for the reconstruction of Marawi and demonstrate the robust bond between our two countries,” said Dr. Hiroto Izumi, special advisor to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
Both sides also agreed to “steadily implement” for the next five years their joint commitments on major fields of bilateral cooperation, particularly on the implementation of the Duterte administration’s big-ticket infrastructure projects that Japan has pledged to support through funding and technology assistance.
Dominguez said both sides look forward to the signing of the Exchange of Notes for the grant financing for the Davao City Waste-to-Energy project, as well as the loan-financing packages for the Pasig-Marikina Channel Improvement Project Phase IV and the MRT 3 Rehabilitation and Improvement Project “in the coming months and after all internal approvals are completed.”
The DOF’s International Finance Group reported to Finance Secretary Carlos G. Dominguez III during its recent Executive Committee meeting that, aside from the 27 heavy machinery, 200 electric vehicles from an Asian Development Bank (ADB)-funded project of the Department of Energy will also be turned over to Task Force Bangon Marawi to help provide livelihood opportunities for residents in the conflict-torn city.
Japan’s donation of heavy equipment to Marawi City is part of Tokyo’s ¥2.5-billion or $22-million grant under the Philippine-Japan Economic and Social Development Program, which includes the support for the reconstruction of the city and the provision of coastal-monitoring radars to the Philippine Coast Guard.
During the fourth meeting of the Philippines-Japan High Level Committee on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation held in Cebu City in February, representatives of both countries discussed a proposed ¥2-billion or $18-million grant from Japan still in line with the rehabilitation of Marawi City.
“The turnover of equipment would be a symbol of Japan’s strong commitment for the reconstruction of Marawi and demonstrate the robust bond between our two countries,” said Dr. Hiroto Izumi, special advisor to Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
Both sides also agreed to “steadily implement” for the next five years their joint commitments on major fields of bilateral cooperation, particularly on the implementation of the Duterte administration’s big-ticket infrastructure projects that Japan has pledged to support through funding and technology assistance.
Dominguez said both sides look forward to the signing of the Exchange of Notes for the grant financing for the Davao City Waste-to-Energy project, as well as the loan-financing packages for the Pasig-Marikina Channel Improvement Project Phase IV and the MRT 3 Rehabilitation and Improvement Project “in the coming months and after all internal approvals are completed.”
Winning streak
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| Gloria Romero |
For February (with Feb.18-28 based on overnight data), GMA was the most watched TV station in the National Urban Television Audience Measurement (NUTAM) with an average of 43.6 percent total day people audience share.
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| Jessica Soho |
Award-winning news magazine show “Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS)” still reigned as the most watched GMA program nationwide in February.
Other GMA ratings drivers last month were “Magpakailanman;” “Kambal, Karibal;” “Pepito Manaloto;” “24 Oras;” “Sherlock Jr.;” “All-Star Videoke;” “Daig Kayo Ng Lola Ko;” and “Ika-6 Na Utos.”
Also on the list of top programs were “Sirkus;” “The One That Got Away;” “Bubble Gang;” “Saksi;” “The Stepdaughters;” “24 Oras Weekend;” “Eat Bulaga!;” “Tadhana;” “Impostora;” “Sunday PinaSaya;” and “Haplos.”
GMA Network still dominated the list of top programs in Urban Luzon with eight Kapuso shows in the top 10. Moreover, GMA programs swept the first nine spots in Mega Manila.
Further, GMA’s flagship AM radio station Super Radyo DZBB was also hailed as the listeners’ number one choice in Mega Manila proving GMA’s dominance both in TV and radio.
Based on the most recent data from Nielsen Radio Audience Measurement. February ratings data show DZBB posting a total week average audience share of 42.9 percent in February, winning over DZMM’s 37.4 percent and DZRH’s 29.3 percent.
From Monday to Friday, DZBB’s ratings dominance was driven by its topnotch delivery of news and fearless commentaries through “Saksi sa Dobol B” anchored by Mike Enriquez; “Sino?” with Mike, Arnold Clavio, and Ali Sotto; “Super Balita sa Umaga Nationwide” with Mike and Joel Reyes Zobel; and “Dobol B Balitang-Balita” anchored by Melo del Prado.
Meanwhile, viewers can now enjoy a more colorful, more vibrant, and clearer viewing experience as GMA Network’s digital TV signal now covers all parts of Metro Manila as well as nearby provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, Bulacan, Bataan, Nueva Ecija, and Pampanga. GMA-7 and GMA News TV’s digital broadcast can be accessed by simply rescanning the channels through their digital TV boxes.
The sub-channels are available soon: Dobol B sa TV (News and Information), GMA Playhouse (Anime and Cartoons) , KMF (Kapuso Movie Festival) and QTV (All about lifestyle and women channel). QTV is also under CityNet Marketing and Productions, Inc.
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CCP on Air
Aside from the shows, concerts and special events propagating Philippine arts and culture and regularly performed at the Cultural Center of the Philippines, our country’s national performing arts center, there are also other programs the agency presents.
One is “DiskArte,” a radio magazine program with the arts as they matter in society. Awarded as the Freedom Project 2003 Jury Prize and People’s Choice by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom, the program airs Saturdays from 2 to 3 p.m. over DZRH.
“Culture Carousel,” on the other hand, is a classical music program showcasing the works and performances of outstanding Filipino and foreign artists. Hosted by Irene Obligación Rada, it airs Saturdays from 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. over 98.7 DZFE, The Masters Touch.
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Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 13, go to Mila Manapat, Kathy Limjoco, Atty. Amelia Tansinsin, Connie Genilo, Keren Pascual, Kimberly Joyce Mañaol, Mariane Buenafe, Asia Lopez, Jeff Ambrosio, Ronald Reyes, Sid Lucero, Erlinda de Castro, Sherwin T. Macandog, Jerome Ruiz Berja, Deng Latayan Lado-ing, Tynes Tolentino, Irish Sta. Maria, Fe Banta, Bong Serra, and director Laruenti Dyogi… March 14: Sen. Gregorio Honasan, Louie Reyes, Remy Aquino, Marilen Espiritu, Linda Buenviaje, Carmelita Salvador, Jhing de Leon, Elenita Bolipata, Gave Pizarro, Percy Lapid, Julius Bodomo, Dindi Gallardo, Paolo Contis and Pinky Amador…
Monday, March 12, 2018
PNR to offer freight service soon
Even before the Philippines became an independent republic, it already had a rail system that made trains a regular fixture in the streets of Manila, chugging along and carrying goods and passengers to and from La Union in the north and Legazpi City in the south.
It was the rail system’s heyday. The Manila Railroad Co., later to be known as Philippine National Railways (PNR), had 1,000 kilometers of rail spanning the entire Luzon.
125 years of war, neglect
But in the last 125 years, the PNR has become just a shadow of its old self, suffering from the ravages of war and government neglect which limited its operations to just 28 km of tracks.
Despite having all the reasons to be pessimistic, though, PNR General Manager Junn Magno sees a bright future for the country’s oldest train system as ridership continued to grow.
Just last year, Magno said 65,000 passengers took the PNR daily from an average of just 32,000 in 2016. The number of passengers was projected to grow to 150,000 a day in three years with more trains being bought.
There are currently at least seven trains operating daily. Four would be in operation in the coming weeks after repairs on their air conditioning units.
In January, the PNR bought two diesel-electric trains for P485 million from the Indonesian government, its first purchase of trains in 40 years after relying on either donated or loaned trains.
Magno said within the year the PNR would buy nine more trains.
Easing port congestion
Within the year, too, the PNR would revive freight service to not only ease port congestion but also traffic on Roxas Boulevard, where cargo trucks often pass.
The PNR freight service, to be in partnership with Metro Pacific Investments Corp., would reduce container traffic in Manila by up to 70 percent in three years.
Six 30-wagon trains would be deployed to carry cargo every night which could remove up to 3,000 trucks passing through Roxas Boulevard daily.
Read more: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/974414/pnr-to-offer-freight-service-soon#ixzz59Xmgbxev
Follow us: @inquirerdotnet on Twitter | inquirerdotnet on Facebook
It was the rail system’s heyday. The Manila Railroad Co., later to be known as Philippine National Railways (PNR), had 1,000 kilometers of rail spanning the entire Luzon.
125 years of war, neglect
But in the last 125 years, the PNR has become just a shadow of its old self, suffering from the ravages of war and government neglect which limited its operations to just 28 km of tracks.
Despite having all the reasons to be pessimistic, though, PNR General Manager Junn Magno sees a bright future for the country’s oldest train system as ridership continued to grow.
Just last year, Magno said 65,000 passengers took the PNR daily from an average of just 32,000 in 2016. The number of passengers was projected to grow to 150,000 a day in three years with more trains being bought.
There are currently at least seven trains operating daily. Four would be in operation in the coming weeks after repairs on their air conditioning units.
In January, the PNR bought two diesel-electric trains for P485 million from the Indonesian government, its first purchase of trains in 40 years after relying on either donated or loaned trains.
Magno said within the year the PNR would buy nine more trains.
Easing port congestion
Within the year, too, the PNR would revive freight service to not only ease port congestion but also traffic on Roxas Boulevard, where cargo trucks often pass.
The PNR freight service, to be in partnership with Metro Pacific Investments Corp., would reduce container traffic in Manila by up to 70 percent in three years.
Six 30-wagon trains would be deployed to carry cargo every night which could remove up to 3,000 trucks passing through Roxas Boulevard daily.
Read more: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/974414/pnr-to-offer-freight-service-soon#ixzz59Xmgbxev
Follow us: @inquirerdotnet on Twitter | inquirerdotnet on Facebook
Sunday, March 11, 2018
#EnchongIGStories
Happy birthday @kptraveler @kpr313
Guests sang Happy Birthday as Keren made a wish and blew out the candle on the cake.
Spotted are Enchong Dee, Arjo Atayde, Alexa Ilacad, LA Aguinaldo, Maxene Magalona and Robby Mananquil, Sen. Manny Pacquiao, figure skater Michael Martinez, Anton San Diego, Mons Romulo, Arnold Vegafria, Drs. Aivee and Z Teo, Dra. Vicki Belo and Hayden Kho, Janice Damasco, Jaru Albert, Maquie Raquiza, Mikki Gonzalez, Monch Novales, director Don Cuaresma, Aga Muhlach and wife Charlene Gonzales, Janice de Belen, Inah Estrada, Chef Luigi Muhlach, Ogie Alcasid, James Deakin
#EnchongIGStories
Saturday, March 10, 2018
Diverse list of music puts artist in the mood
Aimee Bernardo’s playlist includes Classical, French and Kundiman whenever she paints her magnum opuses at her studio and home at Factory 505, Parc Royale Condominium.
“I listen to mostly Classical music but now meron akong Ray LaMontagne, which I don’t know how to pronounce,” revealed Aimee laughing. “But I do love French music. Hindi ko sila maintindihan pero gandang-ganda ako sa tunes.”
Her dilemma though is finding a Kundiman to her liking. It’s either she loves the music but not the performer.
“Maganda yung Kundiman. Merong gitara lang na Kundiman. Gusto ko siyang pakinggan,” said Aimee.
Aside from music, Aimee listened to peace and quiet at the wee hours in the morning while she painted various pieces for her “Pat’ak – Pat’ak Series: Seasons Of My Mind” exhibit at her studio which runs until March 13, 2018.
There are more than 30 pieces on exhibit consisting of large master pieces built like a puzzle wherein interested buyers or art collectors can purchase per piece from the whole artwork. According to Aimee, it’s a result of her first art exhibit during which people looked for small pieces.
“But I can’t work on a small canvas, that’s why ginawa ko siyang parang puzzle, you can have a portion of that big canvas,” described Aimee whose series depicted various emotions on the four seasons – Fall, Spring, Summer and Winter, using pointillism.
“I want to honor the seasons. ’Yung Winter, kasi black and white siya, so monochromatic. You can tell na medyo it’s coming from a deep dark place. Then the Spring is like happy thoughts and then the Autumn is like more womanly that’s why the colors are rich, like gold, red, magenta. And then Summer, that’s my favorite place because it is my happy place. That’s why the colors are blue like the beach. So these are all my emotions so I called them ‘Pat’ak,’” she explained.
What’s the inspiration behind her “Pat’ak-Pat’ak” series?
“When I’m painting, my inspiration has always been my dad. He passed away. And of course when I’m painting, it’s for him. Parang in my head, there are unspoken words, hindi namin napag-usapan because he passed away suddenly. So parang this is my way of connecting with him,” intimated Aimee.
Aside from painting and preparing for her next art exhibit, Aimee teaches art. It’s her way of paying it forward for her gift of painting. She recently taught at the Philippine National School for the Blind and at Trimex Colleges in Laguna where she did a mural in its new building.
An ongoing project she calls “Proyekto Pat’ak,” Aimee hopes to teach two to three schools a year.
• • •
Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, March 10, go to John Lesaca, TJ Manotoc, Alex Estrada, Rosanna Marquez, Pete Dacuycuy, Erlinda Santiago, Nelson Gumatay, Raquel Dungo, and Julia Baretto… March 11: Jose Mari Chan, former Comelec Chairman Ramon Felipe, Councilor Hero Bautista, Vera Isberto, Lucy Chuaying, Dr. Teresita Gozar, Camille Nolasco, Anthony and Michael Segovia, Atty. Nardz Virtucio, Dr. Romy Suntay, Jessie Lucas, Janna Dominguez, Belsha Dizon, Chico Moreno, and Avi Siwa… March 12: Betsy Quisumbing, Mely Paras, Josephine Seson, Nenette Smith, Antoinette Bocobo, Bong Gaba, Raphael Robes and Fred Payaman…
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