Multiply is making a comeback, more than five years after it went closed.
The company, PT Multiply Indonesia, has launched a TV app for smartphones and tablets.
Multiply was refused a new licence after financial difficulties led to staff going for months without wages. After 9 years, the world's oldest social networking site went off air on March 16, 2013.
Monday, December 16, 2019
Alfred Vargas hopes for a better outcome of ABS-CBN franchise renewal
- Rep. Alfred Vargas favors ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal.
- Senators Sotto and Recto positive about ABS-CBN franchise renewal.
Congressman Alfred Vargas has shared his sentiments about the impending franchise renewal of media giant ABS-CBN.
In an interview with the press, Vargas was asked about his take on the franchise renewal woes being faced by the Kapamilya network.
According to the Congressman, he hoped that there would be a positive outcome because he’s concerned with a lot of jobs at stake with the network’s franchise renewal.
“Syempre para sa akin eh marami pa ring trabaho ang nabibigay ng network and sana maayos. And then kasi naman ang concern ko maraming mawawalan ng trabaho and sana kung ano man yung problema, sana ano man ang mangyari eh maayos pa rin in the end, dahil ano yan eh, kumbaga institusyon, institusyon,” said Vargas.
Vargas was a former Kapamilya actor. He started his career in 2001 as part of Star Circle Batch 10 along with Bea Alonzo, Dennis Trillo, Nadine Samonte, and TJ Trinidad among others.
His first Kapamilya series was the original Pangako Sa ‘Yo starring Jericho Rosales and Kristine Hermosa where he played Dyno Zuryete.
Meanwhile, asked about his take on the President’s opposition to the renewal of the ABS-CBN franchise, Vargas said while he respects the President, Congress is still a collegial body and they will have to vote for it as a body and no one person can dictate on it.
“Well syempre lahat tayo nakikinig sa pangulo di ba? And syempre kung anong sabihin ng pangulo merong bigat yun at nirerespeto natin yun, kaya hangad natin na sana maayos na lang kung ano man yung problema, kung ano man yung di pagkakaunawaan,” he said
“Yes it’s a collective decision always. Alam mo naman pinagbobotohan yan palagi, so kung ano man hindi yan decision lang ng iisa lang, boto yan ng buong kongreso,” he explained.
ABS-CBN’s franchise is due to expire in March 2020. Until now its franchise renewal bills are still pending in Congress, allegedly because of President Rodrigo Duterte’s opposition to it.
But some just like Vargas, some senators also optimistic that it will be renewed in due time.
Senators Tito Sotto and Ralph Recto are both positive that there is still time for the franchise renewal bills to be discussed and passed before the March 2020 deadline.
“Yes, there’s enough time. If we receive it by (February), it can be passed within that month.” said Senate President Sotto.
Senator Recto also shared the view of the Senate President saying it can be done and he’s supportive of the renewal because ABS-CBN has done a lot of service to the Filipinos worldwide.
“Yes, it can be done. I support its renewal. I also understand the concerns of the President. Overall, ABS-CBN deserves a renewal of its franchise. They have served the Filipino well. They employ people, pay taxes, they do a lot of CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) inform the public and have done public service well, etc. They are part of the Filipino household,” said Recto.
https://www.lionheartv.net/2019/12/alfred-vargas-hopes-for-a-better-outcome-of-abs-cbn-franchise-renewal/
PLAYS, FILMS, FEATURED ON MILLENNIUM FIESTA
The Pistang Milenyo Filipino, a week-long celebration throughout the country to welcome the new millennium, will formally open on Dec. 26.
Officials of the Presidential Commission on the New Century (PCNCM) and the Millennium, along with its Committee on the Turn-of-the-Century Celebrations (CTCC), said the central theme of the Pistang Milenyo Filipino is Agricultural modernization through science and technology.
The Milenyo Filipino Festival will be formally opened at the Rizal Park (Luneta) in Manila a day after Christmas and will culminate in a millennium-countdown on New Year’s Eve with President Duterte leading a Kapit-Bisig (linking of arms) ritual that symbolizes Filipino unity.
For the duration of the festival, Rizal Park will be transformed into a special millennium theme park, where there will be festivities and shows for the entertainment of people from all walks of life. The main activities on Dec. 31 will have the Quirino Grandstand as venue.
Mr. Estrada has noted that agriculture, science, technology and culture are the driving force that will sharpen the Filipinos’ global competitiveness in the next century. He said promoting the country’s culture would enable the government to portray to the whole world the real Philippine heritage while developing S&T would make our industries globally-competitive for the benefit of all Filipinos, specially the poor.
The Pistang Milenyo Filipino, while serving its basic purpose of presenting the country’s best in arts and culture, in agriculture, in science and technology and in trade and industry, will be used to drumbeat the meaning and importance of the turn-of-the-century program.
Secretary William Dar of the Department of Agriculture chairs the PCNCM, which is tasked to identify the administration’s visions and goals for the next millennium. Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat of the Department of Tourism heads the CTCC, which is tasked with organizing the activities to welcome the new millennium.
Dar and Romulo-Puyat said the festival will showcase Philippine achievements during this century in art and culture, together with the accomplishments in agri-based scientific and technological activities, trade and industry
Romulo-Puyat said the Rizal Park will be dressed up in a truly Filipino fashion with arches, buntings, art objects, and streamers to focus the general theme of the Philippine millennium celebration.
As envisioned, the Milenyo Filipino Festival will have various events to be held in designated areas of the Rizal Park.
The Pistang Pambata (Pinoy Children’s Festival), which will be staged beside the DOT Building, will be spruced up with local mythological figures such as Ibong Adarna and Kapre to heighten the awareness and interest of Filipino children in our myths and folklore.
There will also be puppet shows, folk games, and higantes parade, among others.
Turismo ng Kalikasan (Philippine Eco-tourism Center) will be held at the Halamanan ng Bayan at the corner of Taft Ave. and Padre Burgos St., in Malate, Manila.
It will be the site of eco-tourism displays, exhibits, concerts, demos and teach-ins that will emphasize the government’s concern for the environment.
The Sining Pinoy (Pinoy Safe Scene) will occupy the entire Agrifina Circle which will be transformed into a veritable Café Street with outdoor art exhibits, cultural performances, concerts, fashion shows and poetry reading.
Liwasang Bulaklakan (Philippine Millennium Garden Show) at the Orchidarium will show the best collection of orchids, bromeliads, mums, poinsetias, roses and other tropical plants. There will also be a commercial exhibit of cut flowers and other ornamental plants.
Ambag ng Sining Silangan (Exhibit of Japanese and Chinese influences on Philippine Culture) will show photos and art objects depicting the vast Japanese and Chinese influences on Philippine culture.
Teatro at Pelikula (Program of Cultural Shows and Movies), is an open-air show that will feature the best Filipino plays and movies.
Ginintuang Ani ng Lupang Pilipino (Special Agricultural Fair) is part of the Kanlungan ng Sining, with the back of the National Library as venue where a special agricultural fair will showcase our achievements in agriculture.
Sulong Agham at Teknolohiya (Science and Technology Exhibit) is a special science and technology exhibit to be held in the Planetarium. It will showcase interesting Philippine inventions and achievements in science and technology.
Disenyo at Kalakalan (Philippine Trade Exhibit) at the lobby and the other open areas inside the National Library will feature a special trade exhibit where the country’s best designs on exportable products may be seen.
Sinundang Kabihasnan (Philippine Pre-Historic Exhibit), an exhibit of Philippine pre-history artifacts, will be located at the "Cave" at the Rizal Park. It will also have live performances or vignettes on our early civilization.
Handaan (Philippine Food Fiesta) The tree-shaded area at corner T.M. Kalaw St. and Roxas Blvd. will be set aside for food stalls, where restaurants and hotels will have their respective outlets.
To enliven the park and to add more color to the festival, there will be parades depicting our popular fiestas at designated days and hours.
Some of these fiestas are the Carabao Festival of Pulilan, Bulacan; Pahiyas of Lucban, Quezon Province; Maytinis of Cavite; and the Agawan of Sariaya, also in Quezon.
The parades, starting from DOT, will wind through all the walkways at the park.
In between these cultural parades will be street tableaux featuring folk dances and vignettes of important Filipino plays produced through the years.
Officials of the Presidential Commission on the New Century (PCNCM) and the Millennium, along with its Committee on the Turn-of-the-Century Celebrations (CTCC), said the central theme of the Pistang Milenyo Filipino is Agricultural modernization through science and technology.
The Milenyo Filipino Festival will be formally opened at the Rizal Park (Luneta) in Manila a day after Christmas and will culminate in a millennium-countdown on New Year’s Eve with President Duterte leading a Kapit-Bisig (linking of arms) ritual that symbolizes Filipino unity.
For the duration of the festival, Rizal Park will be transformed into a special millennium theme park, where there will be festivities and shows for the entertainment of people from all walks of life. The main activities on Dec. 31 will have the Quirino Grandstand as venue.
Mr. Estrada has noted that agriculture, science, technology and culture are the driving force that will sharpen the Filipinos’ global competitiveness in the next century. He said promoting the country’s culture would enable the government to portray to the whole world the real Philippine heritage while developing S&T would make our industries globally-competitive for the benefit of all Filipinos, specially the poor.
The Pistang Milenyo Filipino, while serving its basic purpose of presenting the country’s best in arts and culture, in agriculture, in science and technology and in trade and industry, will be used to drumbeat the meaning and importance of the turn-of-the-century program.
Secretary William Dar of the Department of Agriculture chairs the PCNCM, which is tasked to identify the administration’s visions and goals for the next millennium. Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat of the Department of Tourism heads the CTCC, which is tasked with organizing the activities to welcome the new millennium.
Dar and Romulo-Puyat said the festival will showcase Philippine achievements during this century in art and culture, together with the accomplishments in agri-based scientific and technological activities, trade and industry
Romulo-Puyat said the Rizal Park will be dressed up in a truly Filipino fashion with arches, buntings, art objects, and streamers to focus the general theme of the Philippine millennium celebration.
As envisioned, the Milenyo Filipino Festival will have various events to be held in designated areas of the Rizal Park.
The Pistang Pambata (Pinoy Children’s Festival), which will be staged beside the DOT Building, will be spruced up with local mythological figures such as Ibong Adarna and Kapre to heighten the awareness and interest of Filipino children in our myths and folklore.
There will also be puppet shows, folk games, and higantes parade, among others.
Turismo ng Kalikasan (Philippine Eco-tourism Center) will be held at the Halamanan ng Bayan at the corner of Taft Ave. and Padre Burgos St., in Malate, Manila.
It will be the site of eco-tourism displays, exhibits, concerts, demos and teach-ins that will emphasize the government’s concern for the environment.
The Sining Pinoy (Pinoy Safe Scene) will occupy the entire Agrifina Circle which will be transformed into a veritable Café Street with outdoor art exhibits, cultural performances, concerts, fashion shows and poetry reading.
Liwasang Bulaklakan (Philippine Millennium Garden Show) at the Orchidarium will show the best collection of orchids, bromeliads, mums, poinsetias, roses and other tropical plants. There will also be a commercial exhibit of cut flowers and other ornamental plants.
Ambag ng Sining Silangan (Exhibit of Japanese and Chinese influences on Philippine Culture) will show photos and art objects depicting the vast Japanese and Chinese influences on Philippine culture.
Teatro at Pelikula (Program of Cultural Shows and Movies), is an open-air show that will feature the best Filipino plays and movies.
Ginintuang Ani ng Lupang Pilipino (Special Agricultural Fair) is part of the Kanlungan ng Sining, with the back of the National Library as venue where a special agricultural fair will showcase our achievements in agriculture.
Sulong Agham at Teknolohiya (Science and Technology Exhibit) is a special science and technology exhibit to be held in the Planetarium. It will showcase interesting Philippine inventions and achievements in science and technology.
Disenyo at Kalakalan (Philippine Trade Exhibit) at the lobby and the other open areas inside the National Library will feature a special trade exhibit where the country’s best designs on exportable products may be seen.
Sinundang Kabihasnan (Philippine Pre-Historic Exhibit), an exhibit of Philippine pre-history artifacts, will be located at the "Cave" at the Rizal Park. It will also have live performances or vignettes on our early civilization.
Handaan (Philippine Food Fiesta) The tree-shaded area at corner T.M. Kalaw St. and Roxas Blvd. will be set aside for food stalls, where restaurants and hotels will have their respective outlets.
To enliven the park and to add more color to the festival, there will be parades depicting our popular fiestas at designated days and hours.
Some of these fiestas are the Carabao Festival of Pulilan, Bulacan; Pahiyas of Lucban, Quezon Province; Maytinis of Cavite; and the Agawan of Sariaya, also in Quezon.
The parades, starting from DOT, will wind through all the walkways at the park.
In between these cultural parades will be street tableaux featuring folk dances and vignettes of important Filipino plays produced through the years.
Suporta sa franchise ng ABS-CBN, dumarami na sa Kongreso
Ilang araw na lang at magsasara na ang taon pero kabi-kabila pa rin ang presscon, specials, at events ng ABS-CBN. Hindi mo iisiping kinakabahan ang mga bumubuo nito sa kabila ng mga sinasabi ni Pangulong Rodrigo Roa Duterte na haharangin niya ang franchise renewal ng Kapamilya network.
Kung sabagay, hindi advisable na mag-panic. Bukod sa patuloy na pagtangkilik ng mga tagapanood sa kanila, na ayon sa ratings ng Kantar Media ay nanatili silang number one, ay marami rin silang maituturing na kakampi sa Kongreso, kung saan daraan ang kanilang aplikasyon.
Sa huling bilang ay may anim na bill na ang naipasa sa House of Representatives ng mga naniniwalang dapat magpatuloy sa ere ang itinuturing na pioneer ng telebisyon sa bansa.
Dalawa sa nagsusulong na mabigyan ng bagong lisensya ang ABS-CBN ay ang mag-asawang sina Batangas Rep. Vilma Santos-Recto at Sen. Ralph Recto. Ayon sa isang report, sinabi ni ate Vi, na lumabas sa mga pelikula ng Star Cinema tulad ng Anak at In My Life, na napagsisilbihan ng ABS-CBN ang maraming Pilipino sa paghahatid ng iba’t ibang palabas bilang pinakamalaking kumpanya sa media sa bansa.
Si Sen. Ralph naman, itinuturo ang ambag ng network sa lipunan mula sa pagbabayad ng buwis, pagbibigay ng trabaho sa maraming Pilipino, at iba-iba nitong proyektong naghahatid ng serbisyo publiko.
Maski nga si Senate President Tito Sotto, na dati ring naging Kapamilya noong nasa Channel 2 pa ang Eat Bulaga, ay naniniwalang may sapat pang oras para dinggin ang franchise renewal application ng ABS-CBN kaya hindi dapat mabahala ang mga tagapagtangkilik at mga empleyado nito.
Bukod sa kanila, marami pang ibang miyembro ng Kongreso na napapabalitang nagpahayag ng suporta sa Kapamilya Network. Kasama na ang dati nitong reporter na si Laguna Rep. Sol Aragones. Bukod kay Ate Vi at Sol, nag-file din pala ng bill sina Pangasinan Rep. Rose Marie Arenas, Nueva Ecija Rep. Micaela Violago, Parañaque Rep. Joy Myra Tambunting, at Surigao Del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel, habang co-sponsor naman sina Bicol Rep. Joey Salceda, Manila Rep. John Marvin “Yul Servo” Nieto, at tatlo pang iba ayon sa isang source na naka-chika ko.
Iba-iba rin ang kani-kanilang dahilan sa pagsusulong ng franchise ng network.
Para kay Pimentel, mahalaga ang kontribusyon ng network sa pagpapaunlad ng sports sa bansa sa pamamagitan ng pagpapalabas ng UAAP, NCAA, at MPBL.
Maging mga non-government organizations at grupo ng journalists dito at abroad ay nakisali na sa pagpapaalala na huwag naman sanang seryosohin ni Pangulong Digong ang personal na isyu para mapatahimik ang network.
Ang mga netizen naman, inaalala ang epekto ng pagsasara ng network sa mga mawawalan ng trabaho at kanilang mga pamilya.
May tatlong buwan pa bago tuluyang mag-expire ang prangkisa ng ABS-CBN na mag-broadcast.
Kaya kaabang-abang kung sino pa ang mga susunod na tatayo at lalaban para sa libu-libong empleyado nito at kanilang tagapanood sa Pilipinas at ibang bansa.
Naku exciting ito. Sa bilis ng araw paggising natin January na then March na agad.
https://www.philstar.com/pilipino-star-ngayon/showbiz/2019/12/16/1977354/suporta-sa-franchise-ng-abs-cbn-dumarami-na-sa-kongreso
Kung sabagay, hindi advisable na mag-panic. Bukod sa patuloy na pagtangkilik ng mga tagapanood sa kanila, na ayon sa ratings ng Kantar Media ay nanatili silang number one, ay marami rin silang maituturing na kakampi sa Kongreso, kung saan daraan ang kanilang aplikasyon.
Sa huling bilang ay may anim na bill na ang naipasa sa House of Representatives ng mga naniniwalang dapat magpatuloy sa ere ang itinuturing na pioneer ng telebisyon sa bansa.
Dalawa sa nagsusulong na mabigyan ng bagong lisensya ang ABS-CBN ay ang mag-asawang sina Batangas Rep. Vilma Santos-Recto at Sen. Ralph Recto. Ayon sa isang report, sinabi ni ate Vi, na lumabas sa mga pelikula ng Star Cinema tulad ng Anak at In My Life, na napagsisilbihan ng ABS-CBN ang maraming Pilipino sa paghahatid ng iba’t ibang palabas bilang pinakamalaking kumpanya sa media sa bansa.
Si Sen. Ralph naman, itinuturo ang ambag ng network sa lipunan mula sa pagbabayad ng buwis, pagbibigay ng trabaho sa maraming Pilipino, at iba-iba nitong proyektong naghahatid ng serbisyo publiko.
Maski nga si Senate President Tito Sotto, na dati ring naging Kapamilya noong nasa Channel 2 pa ang Eat Bulaga, ay naniniwalang may sapat pang oras para dinggin ang franchise renewal application ng ABS-CBN kaya hindi dapat mabahala ang mga tagapagtangkilik at mga empleyado nito.
Bukod sa kanila, marami pang ibang miyembro ng Kongreso na napapabalitang nagpahayag ng suporta sa Kapamilya Network. Kasama na ang dati nitong reporter na si Laguna Rep. Sol Aragones. Bukod kay Ate Vi at Sol, nag-file din pala ng bill sina Pangasinan Rep. Rose Marie Arenas, Nueva Ecija Rep. Micaela Violago, Parañaque Rep. Joy Myra Tambunting, at Surigao Del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel, habang co-sponsor naman sina Bicol Rep. Joey Salceda, Manila Rep. John Marvin “Yul Servo” Nieto, at tatlo pang iba ayon sa isang source na naka-chika ko.
Iba-iba rin ang kani-kanilang dahilan sa pagsusulong ng franchise ng network.
Para kay Pimentel, mahalaga ang kontribusyon ng network sa pagpapaunlad ng sports sa bansa sa pamamagitan ng pagpapalabas ng UAAP, NCAA, at MPBL.
Maging mga non-government organizations at grupo ng journalists dito at abroad ay nakisali na sa pagpapaalala na huwag naman sanang seryosohin ni Pangulong Digong ang personal na isyu para mapatahimik ang network.
Ang mga netizen naman, inaalala ang epekto ng pagsasara ng network sa mga mawawalan ng trabaho at kanilang mga pamilya.
May tatlong buwan pa bago tuluyang mag-expire ang prangkisa ng ABS-CBN na mag-broadcast.
Kaya kaabang-abang kung sino pa ang mga susunod na tatayo at lalaban para sa libu-libong empleyado nito at kanilang tagapanood sa Pilipinas at ibang bansa.
Naku exciting ito. Sa bilis ng araw paggising natin January na then March na agad.
https://www.philstar.com/pilipino-star-ngayon/showbiz/2019/12/16/1977354/suporta-sa-franchise-ng-abs-cbn-dumarami-na-sa-kongreso
Sunday, December 15, 2019
TV Guide
Saturday
ABS-CBN 2
TV5
GMA-7
GMA News TV 27
CNN Philippines 9
ABS-CBN 2
- 4:00 am O Shopping
- 5:00 am Kape at Salita
- 5:30 am Alas Singko Y Medya
- 7:00 am Family Rosary Crusade
- 8:00 am Ang Iglesia ni Cristo
- 8:30 am Doc Ricky Pedia
- 9:00 am Sarap TV
- 9:30 am Pahina
- 10:00 am Coke Studio
- 10:30 am At Home Ka Dito
- 11:30 am Perfect Moments
- 12:00 nn Magandang Tanghali Bayan
- 2:30 pm E Live
- 4:00 pm SOCO
- 5:00 pm Kuha Mo
- 6:00 pm TV Patrol Weekend
- 6:30 pm Magandang Gabi Bayan
- 7:30 pm Home Sweetie Home
- 8:30 pm Reality Show
- 9:30 pm Arriba, Arriba!
- 10:30 pm Bida Si Mister, Bida Si Misis
- 11:30 pm LOL: Laugh Or Loud
- 12:30 am The Bottomline With Boy Abunda
- 1:30 am F
- 2:00 am Sports Untlimted
- 2:30 am The Weekend News
TV5
- 5:00 am Totoo (Lunas)
- 5:30 am Good Morning Club Weekend
- 7:00 am Word of God Network
- 8:00 am Power to Unite
- 9:00 am Ride Ph
- 10:00 am Thunderbird Sabong Nation
- 11:00 am EZ Shop
- 11:15 am Alagang Kapatid
- 11:30 am History with Lourd
- 12:00 nn Eat Bulaga
- 2:30 pm Showbiz Police
- 4:00 pm Parangnormal Activty
- 5:00 pm Third Eye
- 6:00 pm Aksyon Weekend
- 6:30 pm History With Lourd
- 7:30 pm Laugh Or Lose
- 7:30 pm Talentadong Pinoy
- 9:30 pm The Mega & Songwriter
- 10:30 pm Saturday Night Blockbusters
- 12:30 am The Big Story Weekend
GMA-7
- 4:00 am Jesus The Healer
- 5:00 am The 700 Club
- 6:00 am Pasugo: Ang Tinig ng Iglesia ni Cristo
- 7:00 am Tipong Pinoy
- 7:30 am Chikiting Patrol
- 8:00 am 5 & Up
- 8:30 am Batang Bibbo
- 9:00 am Art Angel
- 9:30 am Lovely Day
- 10 am Ka-Blog!
- 10:30 am Digital LG Quiz
- 11:30 am Campus Video
- 12:00 nn Wowowin
- 2:30 pm S-Files
- 4:00 pm Misteryo
- 5:00 pm Wish Ko Lang
- 6:00 pm Saksi Weekend
- 6:30 pm Brigada Siete
- 7:30 pm Pepito Manaloto
- 8:30 pm Daddy's Gurl
- 9:30 pm GMA's Best
- 11:30 pm Wattajob
- 12:30 am Master Showman Presents
- 1:30 am GMA Network News Weekend
- 1:45 am The 700 Club (Answers)
- 12:00 nn Balitanghali Weekend
- 1:00 pm Healthy Juan
- 2:00 pm Buhay OFW
- 3:00 pm Dear Friend
- 4:00 pm Turbo Zone
- 5:00 pm The Working Class
- 6:00 pm News TV QRT Weekend
- 7:00 pm Ang Pinaka
- 8:00 pm Pop Talk
- 8:30 pm Taste Buddies
- 9:00 pm Now Showing
- 11:00 pm State Of The Nation
- 12:00 am Campus Romance
- 1:00 am Kakabakaba
CNN Philippines 9
- 6:00 pm Newsroom Weekend
- 6:30 pm Where To Next?
- 7:00 pm CNN Style
- 8:00 pm Building Bridges
- 8:30 pm Bussines Round Up
- 9:00 pm Newsnight Weekend
- 9:30 pm NBA Replay
- 12:00 mn Sportsdesk Weekend
How to Revive a Failing Small Business
By Robyn Howard
Do you ever feel like you want to close the doors of your small business for good? Well, you are not alone, and giving up shouldn’t necessarily be your first option.
Many successful businesses we look up to today have been there too. Sales hitting rock bottom, the business itself sinking deeper and deeper into debt, auctioneers at your doorstep, impending bankruptcy, you name it. But you know how they all weathered the storm? It’s simple. They never called it quits; they acted.
Understandably, watching helplessly as your small business falls apart can be really frustrating and, out of desperation, many of us end up making unwise choices. To revive a failing small business, you’ll need to do more than the obvious tricks like rebranding. So, keep reading to learn how you can breathe new life into your small business.
Innovate
Markets, people, and technology all change. What’s relevant or trendy today isn’t guaranteed to stay the same. Your business, too, should change in order to adapt to the ever-changing world. Choosing to focus on today’s marketplace without anticipating the future is what made known companies such as Eastman Kodak, Motorola, Sony, and Yahoo lose their edge. Experts call it the strategic trap.
There’s also the psychological trap, where leaders or business owners focus exclusively on what made the business successful and fail to adapt to new changes. Also, not investing in your equipment or other systems that run your company is another way many businesses end up losing on new and relevant investments.
Put simply, if a business doesn’t innovate or resists innovation, chances of it failing become high. At one point, all the companies on the list dominated the market in their respective fields; the great lesson any small business owner can learn here is to never make the same mistakes they made.
Adapt to new changes, innovate your products and services, and also, rather than trying to deal with everything on your own, listen to your friends, family, employees, and business partners. Invite them to share any ideas that could help revive a failing small business.
Develop a new marketing plan
Marketing is one of the few elements that can either make or break your small business. Did your previous marketing strategy deliver good results? If no, then it needs to be refreshed.
Small business expert Melinda Emerson lists the essentials of a good marketing plan as follows:
Each one of these items matter in turning around a failing company, but I think knowing your target audience is one of the biggest factors. Try to understand them by obtaining all the essential information that you can about them. You can speak to them directly through email or social platforms, and request them to share feedback on your services or products, plus any other suggestion(s) they may have. Also use creative and productive ways such as personalized video marketing to convert them.
Look for a business partner
It’s true that two heads are really better than one, and this can manifest itself if you can find a partner who will bring in fresh ideas or can invest capital in the business. A partnership can expand your network, business offering, and customer reach. When looking for a business partner, always narrow it down to people or businesses whose values, mission, and style complement yours.
Take new risks
Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg was once quoted saying that the only strategy guaranteed to fail is failure to take risks. If you hope to experience solid growth in your small business, forget about waiting for success to happen on its own. Go for it.
What that means is you should not just confront but embrace risks and leverage them. It can be daunting at first, but then again, you will never access the good opportunities out there if you never try. This also doesn’t mean you should just take any risk that comes your way. It’s best to evaluate the potential gains and setbacks before making any decision.
You can start by taking smaller risks. If there are gains, this will improve your confidence, and if things don’t go as you expect, the setback won’t necessarily be huge. Also whenever you take a risk, implement your plan fully and pursue it until you reach the final stage.
To sum up, one uncomfortable thing every business owner or leader has to live with is that no business can be healthy all the time. There will always be wins and losses. There will also be turbulent times threatening to strip all your hopes away, but if you choose to innovate, refresh your marketing plan, scout for a business partner, and take on more risks, you will rise again, you will achieve growth, and also reach profitability.
https://www.allbusiness.com/how-to-revive-failing-small-business-115248-1.html
Do you ever feel like you want to close the doors of your small business for good? Well, you are not alone, and giving up shouldn’t necessarily be your first option.
Many successful businesses we look up to today have been there too. Sales hitting rock bottom, the business itself sinking deeper and deeper into debt, auctioneers at your doorstep, impending bankruptcy, you name it. But you know how they all weathered the storm? It’s simple. They never called it quits; they acted.
Understandably, watching helplessly as your small business falls apart can be really frustrating and, out of desperation, many of us end up making unwise choices. To revive a failing small business, you’ll need to do more than the obvious tricks like rebranding. So, keep reading to learn how you can breathe new life into your small business.
Innovate
Markets, people, and technology all change. What’s relevant or trendy today isn’t guaranteed to stay the same. Your business, too, should change in order to adapt to the ever-changing world. Choosing to focus on today’s marketplace without anticipating the future is what made known companies such as Eastman Kodak, Motorola, Sony, and Yahoo lose their edge. Experts call it the strategic trap.
There’s also the psychological trap, where leaders or business owners focus exclusively on what made the business successful and fail to adapt to new changes. Also, not investing in your equipment or other systems that run your company is another way many businesses end up losing on new and relevant investments.
Put simply, if a business doesn’t innovate or resists innovation, chances of it failing become high. At one point, all the companies on the list dominated the market in their respective fields; the great lesson any small business owner can learn here is to never make the same mistakes they made.
Adapt to new changes, innovate your products and services, and also, rather than trying to deal with everything on your own, listen to your friends, family, employees, and business partners. Invite them to share any ideas that could help revive a failing small business.
Develop a new marketing plan
Marketing is one of the few elements that can either make or break your small business. Did your previous marketing strategy deliver good results? If no, then it needs to be refreshed.
Small business expert Melinda Emerson lists the essentials of a good marketing plan as follows:
- Market research
- Target market
- Positioning
- Competitive analysis
- Market strategy
- Budget
- Metrics
Each one of these items matter in turning around a failing company, but I think knowing your target audience is one of the biggest factors. Try to understand them by obtaining all the essential information that you can about them. You can speak to them directly through email or social platforms, and request them to share feedback on your services or products, plus any other suggestion(s) they may have. Also use creative and productive ways such as personalized video marketing to convert them.
Look for a business partner
It’s true that two heads are really better than one, and this can manifest itself if you can find a partner who will bring in fresh ideas or can invest capital in the business. A partnership can expand your network, business offering, and customer reach. When looking for a business partner, always narrow it down to people or businesses whose values, mission, and style complement yours.
Take new risks
Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg was once quoted saying that the only strategy guaranteed to fail is failure to take risks. If you hope to experience solid growth in your small business, forget about waiting for success to happen on its own. Go for it.
What that means is you should not just confront but embrace risks and leverage them. It can be daunting at first, but then again, you will never access the good opportunities out there if you never try. This also doesn’t mean you should just take any risk that comes your way. It’s best to evaluate the potential gains and setbacks before making any decision.
You can start by taking smaller risks. If there are gains, this will improve your confidence, and if things don’t go as you expect, the setback won’t necessarily be huge. Also whenever you take a risk, implement your plan fully and pursue it until you reach the final stage.
To sum up, one uncomfortable thing every business owner or leader has to live with is that no business can be healthy all the time. There will always be wins and losses. There will also be turbulent times threatening to strip all your hopes away, but if you choose to innovate, refresh your marketing plan, scout for a business partner, and take on more risks, you will rise again, you will achieve growth, and also reach profitability.
https://www.allbusiness.com/how-to-revive-failing-small-business-115248-1.html
Immaculate Conception, President Duterte, ABS-CBN
WORD ALIVE By FR. BEL SAN LUIS, SVD
The message of President Duterte on the feast of the Immaculate Conception last December 8 was very inspiring. He said, “The Blessed Virgin Mary’s exemplary life of piety and virtue honored today by our Catholic faithful nourishes the spirituality of our people as they in turn become agents of compassion and justice in our society.”
* * *
Let me, however, make some personal observations on the President’s message in connection with his resolve not to renew the franchise of ABS-CBN which will expire in March, 2020. Isn’t the President’s resolve against ABS-CBN contradicting his message that our people should be inspired by the Immaculate Conception “to become agents of compassion and justice”?
* * *
By not renewing the franchise, does he not think that he would be depriving over 10,000 employees of their jobs who are working here and abroad? Where’s the President’s compassion?
* * *
President Duterte’s justification for not renewing the franchise is because ABS-CBN was partisan in the last presidential election, citing that it did not air his political advertisements which were “already paid” but aired instead those of the opposition candidates.
* * *
Granting that ABS-CBN committed a blunder, the President has the right to file legal charges anytime. But is the offense so grave as to warrant a closure of the giant station? To my mind, the non-renewal of the franchise is not proportionate to the penalty incurred. According to the universal law and quoting a renowned moral theologian, Daniel L. Lowery, “A just punishment must be proportionate to the degree of personal guilt.”
* * *
May the Immaculate Conception, whom President Duterte highly esteems as a model of compassion and justice, enlighten and guide our President in all his decisions.
* * *
SUNDAY REFLECTION: REJOICE, BE JOYFUL
A friend of mine would conclude his letter with this quip: “Don’t take life too seriously; you’ll never come out of it alive!”
We should paraphrase that, saying: “Don’t take life too seriously; Jesus Christ saved you.”
* * *
While it’s true that we should not take life and our problems TOO seriously, we should do our part in saving ourselves. As the dictum goes: “Do your best and God will do the rest.”
That’s the message of this 3rd Sunday of Advent called “Gaudete Sunday.” Gaudete means “rejoice,” “be joyful.”
* * *
During the time of John the Baptist, people did not know who or where the Messiah was.
John the Baptist, Christ’s forerunner, exclaimed in today’s gospel: “There is one among you whom you do not know.” He was referring to Jesus Christ.
* * *
How about our modern times? Would the Baptist address his indictment to us?
Why is it that in our celebration of Christmas we are so much engrossed with Christmas shopping, gift-giving, eating and drinking, that we forget the reason why we’re doing all this?
* * *
Or, why don’t we recognize him in our fellowmen especially among the poor, the marginalized, those who have no voice in society for whom Jesus said: “Whatever you did to the least of my brethren, you did to me”? If we are keenly aware of God’s presence in them, would we abuse, mistreat, harm, or heinously kill them?
* * *
Advent is an opportune time for us to renew our faith in Jesus. He is the main character, the central figure of all our Christmas celebrations.
* * *
THE LIGHTER SIDE.There are four stages in a man’s life. First, when he believes in Sta. Claus. Second, when he doesn’t believe in Sta. Claus anymore. Third, when he IS Sta. Claus. Fourth, when he LOOKS like Sta. Claus.
* * *
A husband gifted his wife with a bracelet. When the wife asked him why the surprise gift, he replied, “A four-letter word made me do it.” “You mean ‘LOVE?” she asked. “No,” he responded, “SALE.”
* * *
GIVE LOVE THIS CHRISTMAS. Let’s share joy with the less fortunate sick, like five-year-old Genesis Ll., suffering from leukemia, Dante C., renal failure patient, M. Maranga, J. Lopez, R.Cayunda who have pulmonary ailments. You can do it by contributing an amount to buy medicines and pay their medical treatments.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/12/15/immaculate-conception-president-duterte-abs-cbn/
The message of President Duterte on the feast of the Immaculate Conception last December 8 was very inspiring. He said, “The Blessed Virgin Mary’s exemplary life of piety and virtue honored today by our Catholic faithful nourishes the spirituality of our people as they in turn become agents of compassion and justice in our society.”
* * *
Let me, however, make some personal observations on the President’s message in connection with his resolve not to renew the franchise of ABS-CBN which will expire in March, 2020. Isn’t the President’s resolve against ABS-CBN contradicting his message that our people should be inspired by the Immaculate Conception “to become agents of compassion and justice”?
* * *
By not renewing the franchise, does he not think that he would be depriving over 10,000 employees of their jobs who are working here and abroad? Where’s the President’s compassion?
* * *
President Duterte’s justification for not renewing the franchise is because ABS-CBN was partisan in the last presidential election, citing that it did not air his political advertisements which were “already paid” but aired instead those of the opposition candidates.
* * *
Granting that ABS-CBN committed a blunder, the President has the right to file legal charges anytime. But is the offense so grave as to warrant a closure of the giant station? To my mind, the non-renewal of the franchise is not proportionate to the penalty incurred. According to the universal law and quoting a renowned moral theologian, Daniel L. Lowery, “A just punishment must be proportionate to the degree of personal guilt.”
* * *
May the Immaculate Conception, whom President Duterte highly esteems as a model of compassion and justice, enlighten and guide our President in all his decisions.
* * *
SUNDAY REFLECTION: REJOICE, BE JOYFUL
A friend of mine would conclude his letter with this quip: “Don’t take life too seriously; you’ll never come out of it alive!”
We should paraphrase that, saying: “Don’t take life too seriously; Jesus Christ saved you.”
* * *
While it’s true that we should not take life and our problems TOO seriously, we should do our part in saving ourselves. As the dictum goes: “Do your best and God will do the rest.”
That’s the message of this 3rd Sunday of Advent called “Gaudete Sunday.” Gaudete means “rejoice,” “be joyful.”
* * *
During the time of John the Baptist, people did not know who or where the Messiah was.
John the Baptist, Christ’s forerunner, exclaimed in today’s gospel: “There is one among you whom you do not know.” He was referring to Jesus Christ.
* * *
How about our modern times? Would the Baptist address his indictment to us?
Why is it that in our celebration of Christmas we are so much engrossed with Christmas shopping, gift-giving, eating and drinking, that we forget the reason why we’re doing all this?
* * *
Or, why don’t we recognize him in our fellowmen especially among the poor, the marginalized, those who have no voice in society for whom Jesus said: “Whatever you did to the least of my brethren, you did to me”? If we are keenly aware of God’s presence in them, would we abuse, mistreat, harm, or heinously kill them?
* * *
Advent is an opportune time for us to renew our faith in Jesus. He is the main character, the central figure of all our Christmas celebrations.
* * *
THE LIGHTER SIDE.There are four stages in a man’s life. First, when he believes in Sta. Claus. Second, when he doesn’t believe in Sta. Claus anymore. Third, when he IS Sta. Claus. Fourth, when he LOOKS like Sta. Claus.
* * *
A husband gifted his wife with a bracelet. When the wife asked him why the surprise gift, he replied, “A four-letter word made me do it.” “You mean ‘LOVE?” she asked. “No,” he responded, “SALE.”
* * *
GIVE LOVE THIS CHRISTMAS. Let’s share joy with the less fortunate sick, like five-year-old Genesis Ll., suffering from leukemia, Dante C., renal failure patient, M. Maranga, J. Lopez, R.Cayunda who have pulmonary ailments. You can do it by contributing an amount to buy medicines and pay their medical treatments.
https://news.mb.com.ph/2019/12/15/immaculate-conception-president-duterte-abs-cbn/
Big shout-out for the it-boy
CONSISTENT, TOP-RATED TELEVISION SHOWS, A multi-million peso hit movies, a string of big endorsements, a handful of upcoming projects that are surely as huge, a legion of die-hard fans and a wonderful family life; just some of the best reasons why today’s it-boy Enchong Dee should be celebrating.
And that’s exactly what happened last November 10 at the Whitespace Events Hall a few hours after his production number in ASAP Natin 'To when he gathered friends and colleagues for a special moment of annual thanksgiving and celebration for all the wonderful things and opportunities he’s been blessed with through-out the year. The actor’s birthday party proved to be a perfect break from an incredibly hectic schedule that he was turned 31 last November 5 and a relaxing time to hang out with friends who have stood by him as he made his every dream happen.
And that’s exactly what happened last November 10 at the Whitespace Events Hall a few hours after his production number in ASAP Natin 'To when he gathered friends and colleagues for a special moment of annual thanksgiving and celebration for all the wonderful things and opportunities he’s been blessed with through-out the year. The actor’s birthday party proved to be a perfect break from an incredibly hectic schedule that he was turned 31 last November 5 and a relaxing time to hang out with friends who have stood by him as he made his every dream happen.
KTXT: Last night is a special night because I hosted a dinner for the people I want to be with and that matters to me, kaya lang half of the people that I invited either didn't go, didn't confirm or txted at all, or I can feel that they don't want to be there parang they want to leave early. I just realize that why bother next time investing emotionally to this people if they can't even reciprocate the friendship you are giving them, and I can tell who this are... I'm not mad but atleast I can categorize now. Parang biglang may sakit or may ibang gagawin during that day or time, they could have told me that they can't make it... period. Tapos karamihan parang takot mainterview why would they be scared to be infront of people asking something if they are not keeping anything
Guests were refreshed non-stop by Hennessy, the perfect blend of a venerable cognac and the zing of fruity flavors.
A prized talent of ABS-CBN Star Magic, Enchong was discovered as a champion swimmer for the De La Salle University where he was a three-time most valuable player in the men’s swimming division and seven-time swimming gold medalist in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Swimming Championships. He started out appearing in supporting roles in various TV dramas which eventually led him to becoming a sought-after endorser for various brands. Enchong endorses some of the country’s most reputable brands such as Bench, Timex, Arena, Speedo, Adidas, Coca-Cola, Real Leaf Green Tea, Milo, Powerade, Lucky Me, Jollibee, Convergys, Sun Life Financial, DC Shoes, Nike, Bench Skin Expert, Jins, GAOC - Gan Advanced Osseointegration Center, Bodyworx Spa and Fitness Club, Technopack and COLORurLIFE Nutrilite.
It wasn’t until the primetime soap Katorse that he was “accidentally” paired up with Erich Gonzales, Ejay Falcon and Xian Lim and they clicked as a love team. A string of bigger projects followed such as Tanging Yaman, a political drama launched prior to the May 10, 2010 automated elections and Magkaribal, dubbed a “fashion-serye” with Bea Alonzo, Derek Ramsay, Angel Aquino and Gretchen Barretto, the Philippine adaptation of Mexican telenovela Maria La Del Barrio, Ina, Kapatid, Anak, a “family drama” series starring Kim Chiu, Xian Lim and Maja Salvador, Muling Buksan ang Puso, a melodrama series starring Julia Montes and Enrique Gil, A Love to Last, a “romantic family comedy-drama” starring Bea Alonzo, Ian Veneracion, Iza Calzado, Julia Barretto, Ronnie Alonte, JK Labajo and Hannah Lopez Vito and The Blood Sisters, an crime and mystery drama series starring Erich and Ejay themselves.
His Star Cinema movies I Do and Once a Princess, which he starred with Erich, while The Reunion, which they starred Xian Lim, Enrique Gil, Kean Cipriano together with Julia Montes, Jessy Mendiola, Megan Young, Bangs Garcia, and Cristine Reyes, The Strangers which they starred Julia Montes, Enrique Gil and JM de Guzman, and Tuhog which they starred Empress Schuck, Jake Cuenca, Eugene Domingo and Leo Martinez and Call Center Girl starring Pokwang and Jessy Mendiola has also garnered good praise from critics and was notably a blockbuster hits.
His most recent book, Basta Trip Mo, shares varied suggestions on making your travel meaningful and worthy. One important tip on his list is how to save money for your dream travel. “Traveling starts from your payday. You can start saving, say, P1,500 every payday and in a month, you have P3,000. By December, you already have that amount enough for your travel.”
Let's not forget, that this happening was also Enchong Dee’s birthday. No wonder were giant E’s at the entrance. Over champagne and the birthday cake, the whole gang sang Happy Birthday to Enchong Dee. It was truly a fun-filled and delightful evening, especially for Enchong Dee.
"To all who attended and helped :) Thank you for making this surprise birthday party a success," he said.
Some of the personalities with the birthday boy were Jorge Carino and wife Daisy, Vice President Leni Robredo, former President Benigno Aquino III, former Vice President Noli de Castro, House Speaker Alan Peter and Taguig Rep. Lani Cayetano, Taguig Mayor Lino Cayetano, former Taguig Mayor Freddie and First Lady Kaye Tinga, Arjo and Ria Atayde, Gerald Anderson and Kim Chiu, Rayver Cruz, JC de Vera, Robi Domingo, Ejay Falcon, Carlo Magdaluyo, Anakalusugan Party List Rep. Mike Defensor, Bong Guerrero, chef Noel dela Rama, Karen Davila, Anton San Diego, Bev Llorente, Samantha Lopez, Navotas City Mayor Toby Tiangco, Arnold Vegafria, Mons Romulo, Carol Garcia, Karen Santos, Margie Moran Floirendo, Jojie Dingcong, Mother Lily Monteverde, Roselle Monteverde, Veana Fores, Doris Magsaysay Ho, Margarita Forés, Maricel Soriano, Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Philippine Daily Inquirer president and CEO Sandy Romualdez, Jon Herrera and Patti Grandidge, Gian Carlos, Maquie Raquiza, Filbert Kung, Kim Nicholas, Monch Novales, Mo Nuevo, Marivic and former House Secretary-General Atty. Cesar Pareja, former education secretary Bro. Armin Luistro, former Social Welfare and Development secretary Dinky Soliman, publicist Keren Pascual, Pops Fernandez, Dominic Hernandez, Mikki Gonzalez, Jaru Albert, Nenette Rustia, Ella Zobel de Ayala, Thou Reyes, Charlie Dizon, Jo-Ann Bitagcol, Miah Gomez, Kirby Andres, Korina Sanchez, Margot Torres, Star Magic’s Johnny Manahan and Mariole Alberto, Sun Life’s Benedicto Sison, HOOQ’s Jeff Remigio, DZMM’s Pat-P Daza, Star Cinema’s Enrico Santos and Joel Mercado, Lisa Gokongwei-Cheng, Robina Gokongwei-Pe, PEP's Joanne Maglipon, Girlie Rodis, Eloisa Matias and Leo Katigbak, Shirley Kuan, Law Tan, Dolor Guevarra, Angelica Alita, Veana Fores, Bibeth Orteza and Malou Choa-Fagar, Manila Bulletin Lifestyle editor Arnel Patawaran, Liza Ilarde and Elbert Cuenca, Philippine Star Lifestyle editor Millet Mananquil and hubby Robert, son Robby and wife Maxene Magalona, Inquirer Lifestyle editor Thelma San Juan and son Luis Carlo, ABS-CBN Chief Operating Officer for Broadcast Cory Vidanes, Dreamscape Entertainment head Deo Endrinal and advertising and promotions head Biboy Arboleda, MTRCB chairwoman Rachel Arenas, Senators Pia Cayetano, Risa Hontiveros, Kiko Pangilinan, Grace Poe, Sonny Angara and Cynthia Villar, Antique Rep. Loren Legarda, Leyte 4th District Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez, actors and friends Gretchen Barretto with Tonyboy Cojuangco, Cesar Montano, Albert Martinez, Agot Isidro, Yam Concepcion, Chienna Filomeno, Mark McMahon, Xian Lim, Arron Villaflor, Zanjoe Marudo, Janus del Prado, Sam Concepcion, Rodjun Cruz, David Chua, Carlo Gonzales, Mauro Lumba, Philippe Magalona, Joseph Marco, Miko Raval, Inigo Pascual, Daniella Stranner, LA Aguinaldo, Alexa Ilacad, Grae Fernandez, Luke Jickain, Marvin Raymundo, Raphael Robes, Randy See, Tyson Kraft, Sacheen Steinmann, Dimitri Tolenaars, Alison Carlos, Javi Cang, Kim Cruz, Carlos Laurel, Hannah Locsin, Luigi Pumaren, Kat Galang, Paolo Gonzales, Kelsey Merritt and Daniel Velasco.
The popular leading gorgeous leading ladies’ actresses Bea Alonzo, Julia Barretto, Iza Calzado, Erich Gonzales, Janine Gutierrez, Melissa Ricks, Bianca Manalo, Jessy Mendiola, Maja Salvador and Kylie Verzosa, comedians Kit-Kat, Pokwang and Vice Ganda, models Phoemela Baranda and Nicolette Bell and hair stylists Ton Lao, Liz Uy and Sidney Yap were also there to make the night even more special.
Spotted also the classmates from St. Joseph School, Naga Hope Christian School and De La Salle University, as well as parents Johnson and Sonny and siblings AJ, Ice and Angelika and other members of the Dee and Velasquez families.
Spotted also the classmates from St. Joseph School, Naga Hope Christian School and De La Salle University, as well as parents Johnson and Sonny and siblings AJ, Ice and Angelika and other members of the Dee and Velasquez families.
A prized talent of ABS-CBN Star Magic, Enchong was discovered as a champion swimmer for the De La Salle University where he was a three-time most valuable player in the men’s swimming division and seven-time swimming gold medalist in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Swimming Championships. He started out appearing in supporting roles in various TV dramas which eventually led him to becoming a sought-after endorser for various brands. Enchong endorses some of the country’s most reputable brands such as Bench, Timex, Arena, Speedo, Adidas, Coca-Cola, Real Leaf Green Tea, Milo, Powerade, Lucky Me, Jollibee, Convergys, Sun Life Financial, DC Shoes, Nike, Bench Skin Expert, Jins, GAOC - Gan Advanced Osseointegration Center, Bodyworx Spa and Fitness Club, Technopack and COLORurLIFE Nutrilite.
It wasn’t until the primetime soap Katorse that he was “accidentally” paired up with Erich Gonzales, Ejay Falcon and Xian Lim and they clicked as a love team. A string of bigger projects followed such as Tanging Yaman, a political drama launched prior to the May 10, 2010 automated elections and Magkaribal, dubbed a “fashion-serye” with Bea Alonzo, Derek Ramsay, Angel Aquino and Gretchen Barretto, the Philippine adaptation of Mexican telenovela Maria La Del Barrio, Ina, Kapatid, Anak, a “family drama” series starring Kim Chiu, Xian Lim and Maja Salvador, Muling Buksan ang Puso, a melodrama series starring Julia Montes and Enrique Gil, A Love to Last, a “romantic family comedy-drama” starring Bea Alonzo, Ian Veneracion, Iza Calzado, Julia Barretto, Ronnie Alonte, JK Labajo and Hannah Lopez Vito and The Blood Sisters, an crime and mystery drama series starring Erich and Ejay themselves.
His Star Cinema movies I Do and Once a Princess, which he starred with Erich, while The Reunion, which they starred Xian Lim, Enrique Gil, Kean Cipriano together with Julia Montes, Jessy Mendiola, Megan Young, Bangs Garcia, and Cristine Reyes, The Strangers which they starred Julia Montes, Enrique Gil and JM de Guzman, and Tuhog which they starred Empress Schuck, Jake Cuenca, Eugene Domingo and Leo Martinez and Call Center Girl starring Pokwang and Jessy Mendiola has also garnered good praise from critics and was notably a blockbuster hits.
His most recent book, Basta Trip Mo, shares varied suggestions on making your travel meaningful and worthy. One important tip on his list is how to save money for your dream travel. “Traveling starts from your payday. You can start saving, say, P1,500 every payday and in a month, you have P3,000. By December, you already have that amount enough for your travel.”
Let's not forget, that this happening was also Enchong Dee’s birthday. No wonder were giant E’s at the entrance. Over champagne and the birthday cake, the whole gang sang Happy Birthday to Enchong Dee. It was truly a fun-filled and delightful evening, especially for Enchong Dee.
"To all who attended and helped :) Thank you for making this surprise birthday party a success," he said.
Keren Pascual at Sinulog 2015: Almost famous.
Normal times
Other than these, we had normal times in London last March. This was during the junket for friends of Keren Pascual, the PR practitioner and talent manager (of Enchong Dee, for one) who organizes regular trips abroad he’s dubbed as “Famous.” The one last March marked his not-yet-senior-citizen birthday celebration.
"Happy Birthday Tita Winnie Monsod" :) (cakes c/o Fernando's bakery)
Malapit na ring matapos ang shooting ng pangatlong pelikulang pagtatambalan nina Kim Chiu at Xian Lim. Nilinaw ni Xian ang napabalitang hindi raw sang-ayon ang mga tagahanga ng tambalan nila ni Kim na makapareha ng kanilang idolo ang ibang artista sa mga susunod na proyekto ng dalawa. “Well they’re very supportive. They understand that we’re just doing our job. Kumbaga passion namin ang umarte at kung sino man ang maka-partner namin talagang todo-suporta sila,” paliwanag ni Xian.
Ayaw daw ng binata na limitahan din ang kanyang mga proyekto dahil pangarap din niyang maging isang magaling na aktor. “Ako ang wini-wish ko ay sana magkaroon na ako ng project soon because there’s a lot of people waiting. If ever I do get that, promise na ibibigay ko ang lahat and I won’t let them down,” paliwanag ni Xian.
Samantala, kamakailan ay ipinakilala na ni Enchong Dee ang kasintahan sa publiko. Ngayon ay marami ang nangungulit kay Xian kung kailan malalaman ng publiko kung ano ang tunay na estado ng relasyon nila ni Kim. “Naku! Right now we’re just going to focus on the movie. In perfect time. Perfect timing po ‘yan and if ever, ipapaalam ko agad sa inyo and I want it to be special. Everything dapat special. Alam n’yo sa totoo lang, alam naman ni Kim na may gusto ako sa kanya. Alam naman ni Kim na crush na crush ko siya eh. So I’m just here, I’m just happy na she’s happy,” giit ni Xian. Reports from James C. Cantos
Big shout-out for the it-boy
 |
| Enchong Dee has a quiet birthday dinner at CDP and bumps into friends: Carlo Magdaluyo, Keren Pascual, Korina Sanchez, Margot Torres. |
CONSISTENT, TOP-RATED TELEVISION SHOWS, A multi-million peso hit movies, a string of big endorsements, a handful of upcoming projects that are surely as huge, a legion of die-hard fans and a wonderful family life; just some of the best reasons why today’s it-boy Enchong Dee should be celebrating.
And that’s exactly what happened last November 10 at Mind Museum hours after his production number in the ABS-CBN’s Sunday noontime show ASAP Natin 'To when he gathered friends and colleagues for a special moment of annual thanksgiving and celebration for all the wonderful things and opportunities he’s been blessed with through-out the year. The Kapamilya actor’s annual birthday party proved to be a perfect break from an incredibly hectic schedule that he turned 31 on November 5 and a relaxing time to hang out with friends who have stood by him as he made his every dream happen.
Some of the personalities with the birthday boy were Jorge Carino and wife Daisy, Vice President Leni Robredo, former President Benigno Aquino III, former Vice President Noli de Castro, House Speaker Alan Peter and Taguig Rep. Lani Cayetano, Taguig Mayor Lino Cayetano, former Taguig Mayor Freddie and First Lady Kaye Tinga, Ana de Ocampo, Franco Laurel, Carlo Magdaluyo, Anakalusugan Party List Rep. Mike Defensor, Bong Guerrero, chef Noel dela Rama, Karen Davila, Anton San Diego, Bev Llorente, Samantha Lopez, Navotas City Mayor Toby Tiangco, Arnold Vegafria, Perry Lansigan, Mons Romulo, Carol Garcia, Karen Santos, Margie Moran Floirendo, Laurie Westfall, Sharm Hiranand, Marianne Po, Roseanne Belmonte, Agnes Huibonhoa, Jojie Dingcong, Susan Joven, Michelle Tiangco, Melba Solidum, Carol Garcia, Alice Edurado, Mother Lily Monteverde, Roselle Monteverde, Veana Fores, Doris Magsaysay Ho, Margarita Forés, Maricel Soriano, Tessa Prieto-Valdes, Sandy Romualdez, Jon Herrera and Patti Grandidge, Gian Carlos, Maquie Raquiza, Filbert Kung, Kim Nicholas, Monch Novales, Mo Nuevo, Marivic and Atty. Cesar Pareja, Bro. Armin Luistro, Dinky Soliman, Keren Pascual, Pops Fernandez, Chad Dominic Hernandez, Mikki Gonzalez, Jaru Albert, Nenette Rustia, Ella Zobel de Ayala, Thou Reyes, Charlie Dizon, Jo-Ann Bitagcol, Miah Gomez, Kirby Andres, Korina Sanchez, Margot Torres, Johnny Manahan, Mariole Alberto, Benedicto Sison, Jeff Remigio, Pat-P Daza, Noel Ferrer, Enrico Santos, Joel Mercado, Lisa Gokongwei-Cheng, Robina Gokongwei-Pe, Joanne Maglipon, Girlie Rodis, Eloisa Matias, Leo Katigbak, Laurenti Dyogi, Shirley Kuan, Law Tan, Dolor Guevarra, Angelica Alita, Bibeth Orteza, Malou Choa-Fagar, Arnel Patawaran, Liza Ilarde and Elbert Cuenca, Millet Mananquil and hubby Robert, son Robby and wife Maxene Magalona, Thelma San Juan and son Luis Carlo, Cory Vidanes, Deo Endrinal, Biboy Arboleda, MTRCB chairwoman Rachel Arenas, Senators Pia Cayetano, Grace Poe, Sonny Angara and Cynthia Villar, Antique Rep. Loren Legarda, Leyte 4th District Rep. Lucy Torres-Gomez, actors and friends Gretchen Barretto with Tonyboy Cojuangco, Cesar Montano, Albert Martinez, Agot Isidro, Gerald Anderson, Arjo Atayde, Ria Atayde, Rayver Cruz, JC de Vera, Robi Domingo, Ejay Falcon, Mark McMahon, Xian Lim, Arron Villaflor, Zanjoe Marudo, Janus del Prado, Sam Concepcion, Rodjun Cruz, David Chua, Carlo Gonzales, Mauro Lumba, Philippe Magalona, Joseph Marco, Miko Raval, Inigo Pascual, LA Aguinaldo, Alexa Ilacad, Grae Fernandez, Raphael Robes, Randy See, Tyson Kraft, Sacheen Steinmann, Dimitri Tolenaars, Alison Carlos, Javi Cang, Kim Cruz, Carlos Laurel, Hannah Locsin, Luigi Pumaren, Kat Galang, Paolo Gonzales, Kelsey Merritt and Daniel Velasco. The popular leading gorgeous leading ladies’ actresses Bea Alonzo, Julia Barretto, Iza Calzado, Kim Chiu, Yam Concepcion, Maymay Entrata, Chienna Filomeno, Erich Gonzales, Janine Gutierrez, Julia Montes, Melissa Ricks, Bianca Manalo, Jessy Mendiola, Janella Salvador, Maja Salvador, Daniella Stranner, Kylie Verzosa and Megan Young, comedians Kit-Kat, Pokwang and Vice Ganda, models Phoemela Baranda and Nicolette Bell and hair stylists Ton Lao, Liz Uy and Sidney Yap were also there to make the night even more special.
Guests were refreshed non-stop by Hennessy, the perfect blend of a venerable cognac and the zing of fruity flavors.
A prized talent of ABS-CBN Star Magic, Enchong was discovered as a champion swimmer for the De La Salle University where he was a three-time most valuable player in the men’s swimming division and seven-time swimming gold medalist in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Swimming Championships. He started out appearing in supporting roles in various TV dramas which eventually led him to becoming a sought-after endorser for various brands. Enchong endorses some of the country’s most reputable brands such as Bench, Bench Body, Timex, Arena Swimwear, Speedo, Adidas, Nike, Jins Eyewear, Coca-Cola, Real Leaf Green Tea, Milo, Powerade, Lucky Me, Jollibee, Convergys, Nike, Bench Skin Expert, GAOC - Gan Advanced Osseointegration Center, Bodyworx Spa and Fitness Club, Technopack and Nutrilite.
It wasn’t until the primetime soap Katorse that he was “accidentally” paired up with Erich Gonzales, Ejay Falcon and Xian Lim and they clicked as a love team. A string of bigger projects followed such as Tanging Yaman, a political drama launched prior to the May 10, 2010 automated elections and Magkaribal, dubbed a “fashion-serye” with Bea Alonzo, Derek Ramsay, Angel Aquino and Gretchen Barretto, the Philippine adaptation of Mexican telenovela Maria La Del Barrio, Ina, Kapatid, Anak, a “family drama” series starring Kim Chiu, Xian Lim and Maja Salvador, Muling Buksan ang Puso, a melodrama series starring Julia Montes and Enrique Gil, A Love to Last, a “romantic family comedy-drama” starring Bea Alonzo, Ian Veneracion, Iza Calzado, Julia Barretto, Ronnie Alonte, JK Labajo and Hannah Lopez Vito and The Blood Sisters, an crime and mystery drama series starring Erich and Ejay themselves.
A prized talent of ABS-CBN Star Magic, Enchong was discovered as a champion swimmer for the De La Salle University where he was a three-time most valuable player in the men’s swimming division and seven-time swimming gold medalist in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Swimming Championships. He started out appearing in supporting roles in various TV dramas which eventually led him to becoming a sought-after endorser for various brands. Enchong endorses some of the country’s most reputable brands such as Bench, Bench Body, Timex, Arena Swimwear, Speedo, Adidas, Nike, Jins Eyewear, Coca-Cola, Real Leaf Green Tea, Milo, Powerade, Lucky Me, Jollibee, Convergys, Nike, Bench Skin Expert, GAOC - Gan Advanced Osseointegration Center, Bodyworx Spa and Fitness Club, Technopack and Nutrilite.
It wasn’t until the primetime soap Katorse that he was “accidentally” paired up with Erich Gonzales, Ejay Falcon and Xian Lim and they clicked as a love team. A string of bigger projects followed such as Tanging Yaman, a political drama launched prior to the May 10, 2010 automated elections and Magkaribal, dubbed a “fashion-serye” with Bea Alonzo, Derek Ramsay, Angel Aquino and Gretchen Barretto, the Philippine adaptation of Mexican telenovela Maria La Del Barrio, Ina, Kapatid, Anak, a “family drama” series starring Kim Chiu, Xian Lim and Maja Salvador, Muling Buksan ang Puso, a melodrama series starring Julia Montes and Enrique Gil, A Love to Last, a “romantic family comedy-drama” starring Bea Alonzo, Ian Veneracion, Iza Calzado, Julia Barretto, Ronnie Alonte, JK Labajo and Hannah Lopez Vito and The Blood Sisters, an crime and mystery drama series starring Erich and Ejay themselves.
His Star Cinema movies I Do and Once a Princess, which he starred with Erich, while The Reunion, which they starred Xian Lim, Enrique Gil, Kean Cipriano together with Julia Montes, Jessy Mendiola, Megan Young, Bangs Garcia, and Cristine Reyes, The Strangers which they starred Julia Montes, Enrique Gil and JM de Guzman, and Tuhog which they starred Empress Schuck, Jake Cuenca, Eugene Domingo and Leo Martinez, Call Center Girl starring Pokwang and Jessy Mendiola and Elise starring Janine Gutierrez has also garnered good praise from critics and was notably a blockbuster hits.
Let's not forget, that this happening was also Enchong Dee’s birthday. No wonder were giant E’s at the entrance. Over candles and cake, the guests sang Happy Birthday to Enchong Dee. It was truly a fun-filled and delightful evening, especially for our Kapamilya star Enchong Dee.
“To all who attended and helped :) Thank you for making this surprise birthday party a success”, he said.
Cheers!
SM to open malls in Butuan, Zamboanga
SM Mall’s enduring marketing slogan “We’ve Got It All For You!” will finally be realized in Caraga Region and Region 9 as SM Supermalls is set to open its branches in Butuan City and Zamboanga City second quarter of next year.
Grace Fornier-Magno, SM Supermalls vice president for advertising in an interview said Butuan City and Zamboanga City are opportunity areas for SM. She said the planned SM mall in Butuan will be a three-storey building while four levels in Zamboanga City.
“We are not present yet in the Caraga and also in the Zamboanga Peninsula. We want to have an SM there para ma-complete na natin ang regions. In Butuan they can go all the way to Cagayan de Oro pero next year they don’t have to travel for four hours to go to CDO to go to an SM mall and Caraga as a region is also growing with Siargao. Butuan itself as a city in fairness is also growing,” Magno said.
The SM mall in Zamboanga City is through a partnership with the old Mindpro Citimall. With the said partnership, Mindpro Citimall is rebranded into SM City Mindpro, which will be the first SM Supermall in Zamboanga Peninsula.
Magno also said SM malls in Mindanao are among the good performing SM malls in the country. She said SM malls in Davao City and CDO are performing well in terms of sales and overall growth.
Currently, there are five SM malls in Mindanao namely SM City CDO, SM CDO Downtown Premier, SM City Davao, SM City General Santos, and SM Lanang Premier. According to Magno among the five malls, SM malls in Davao City are the drivers of the business.
“Maybe because of the investments coming in to Davao City. We are doing very well. Also next year there will be more fun for the family, madami kaming events na mangyayari and we will have local events for Davao festivals,” she said.
https://edgedavao.net/latest-news/2019/12/15/sm-to-open-malls-in-butuan-zamboanga/
Grace Fornier-Magno, SM Supermalls vice president for advertising in an interview said Butuan City and Zamboanga City are opportunity areas for SM. She said the planned SM mall in Butuan will be a three-storey building while four levels in Zamboanga City.
“We are not present yet in the Caraga and also in the Zamboanga Peninsula. We want to have an SM there para ma-complete na natin ang regions. In Butuan they can go all the way to Cagayan de Oro pero next year they don’t have to travel for four hours to go to CDO to go to an SM mall and Caraga as a region is also growing with Siargao. Butuan itself as a city in fairness is also growing,” Magno said.
The SM mall in Zamboanga City is through a partnership with the old Mindpro Citimall. With the said partnership, Mindpro Citimall is rebranded into SM City Mindpro, which will be the first SM Supermall in Zamboanga Peninsula.
Magno also said SM malls in Mindanao are among the good performing SM malls in the country. She said SM malls in Davao City and CDO are performing well in terms of sales and overall growth.
Currently, there are five SM malls in Mindanao namely SM City CDO, SM CDO Downtown Premier, SM City Davao, SM City General Santos, and SM Lanang Premier. According to Magno among the five malls, SM malls in Davao City are the drivers of the business.
“Maybe because of the investments coming in to Davao City. We are doing very well. Also next year there will be more fun for the family, madami kaming events na mangyayari and we will have local events for Davao festivals,” she said.
https://edgedavao.net/latest-news/2019/12/15/sm-to-open-malls-in-butuan-zamboanga/
Saturday, December 14, 2019
Multiply tuloy ang laban sa 2020 - Stephan Magdalinski
Patuloy na pinag-uusapan ng maraming tao, mapa-social media o saan mang lugar, ang sinasabing pagbubukas ng social networking site Multiply sa darating na 2020.
Ilang tulog na lang din kasi ay 2020 na kaya marami talaga ang nangangamba kung ano ang mangyayari at paano aaksyunan ito ng Multiply.
Nitong Biyernes nga ay ipinagdiwang ng Multiply ang kanilang annual Christmas party at doon nagkaroon din ng pagkakataon ang Founder na si Peter Pezaris at CEO na si Stefan Magdalinski na magbitaw ng mensahe na may kinalaman sa isyung kinasasangkutan ng kanilang kompanya. (Read: Multiply bankruptcy)
“Mag-recharge kayo kasi pagbalik ng 2020, marami tayong gagawin,” ani Pezaris sa kanyang speech.
“Dito sa Multiply, tuloy ang laban,” pahayag naman ni Magdalinski.
Dahil sa naging mensahe ng dalawang admin ng naturang website, nabuhayan ang mga fan na sumusuporta sa Multiply.
Napaisip naman ang mga netizen kung paano ang laban na kanilang gagawin, pero inaasahan anila ng mga netizen ang matatag na pagsasamahan ng bawat isang bumubuo ng social networking site. (Athena Yap)
https://www.abante.com.ph/abs-cbn-tuloy-ang-laban-sa-2020-carlo-katigbak.htm
ABS-CBN tuloy ang laban sa 2020 — Carlo Katigbak
Patuloy na pinag-uusapan ng maraming tao, mapa-social media o saan mang lugar, ang sinasabing pagsa-shutdown ng ABS-CBN sa darating na 2020.
Ilang tulog na lang din kasi ay 2020 na kaya marami talaga ang nangangamba kung ano ang mangyayari at paano aaksyunan ito ng ABS-CBN.
Nitong Biyernes nga ay ipinagdiwang ng Kapamilya network ang kanilang Christmas party at doon nagkaroon din ng pagkakataon ang Chairman na si Mark Lopez at President na si Carlo Katigbak na magbitaw ng mensahe na may kinalaman sa isyung kinasasangkutan ng kanilang kompanya.
“Mag-recharge kayo kasi pagbalik ng 2020, marami tayong gagawin,” ani Lopez sa kanyang speech.
“Dito sa ABS-CBN, family is forever, tuloy ang laban,” pahayag naman ni Katigbak.
Dahil sa naging mensahe ng dalawang admin ng naturang network, nabuhayan ang mga fan na sumusuporta sa ABS-CBN.
Napaisip naman ang mga netizen kung paano ang laban na kanilang gagawin, pero inaasahan anila ng mga netizen ang matatag na pagsasamahan ng bawat isang bumubuo ng network. (Athena Yap)
https://www.abante.com.ph/abs-cbn-tuloy-ang-laban-sa-2020-carlo-katigbak.htm
Ilang tulog na lang din kasi ay 2020 na kaya marami talaga ang nangangamba kung ano ang mangyayari at paano aaksyunan ito ng ABS-CBN.
Nitong Biyernes nga ay ipinagdiwang ng Kapamilya network ang kanilang Christmas party at doon nagkaroon din ng pagkakataon ang Chairman na si Mark Lopez at President na si Carlo Katigbak na magbitaw ng mensahe na may kinalaman sa isyung kinasasangkutan ng kanilang kompanya.
“Mag-recharge kayo kasi pagbalik ng 2020, marami tayong gagawin,” ani Lopez sa kanyang speech.
“Dito sa ABS-CBN, family is forever, tuloy ang laban,” pahayag naman ni Katigbak.
Dahil sa naging mensahe ng dalawang admin ng naturang network, nabuhayan ang mga fan na sumusuporta sa ABS-CBN.
Napaisip naman ang mga netizen kung paano ang laban na kanilang gagawin, pero inaasahan anila ng mga netizen ang matatag na pagsasamahan ng bawat isang bumubuo ng network. (Athena Yap)
https://www.abante.com.ph/abs-cbn-tuloy-ang-laban-sa-2020-carlo-katigbak.htm
There’s only one Ping there
Not only did the Philippines win the championship of the Southeast Asian Games and produced 387 medals in the process, it also produced a hero in Roger Casugay who abandoned his quest for the surfing gold by stopping to help a fellow contestant from Indonesia who had gotten loose and almost drowned. For that, he got grateful acknowledgement not only from the delegation, but from the Indonesian President as well. That shows that our athletes are not only talented, but gallant as well.
***
Well, the glow of the gold medals will shine for a long time, but the monetary prizes to be given to the winners will surely add to the happiness and pride of their families. I am sure stories like those will be further incentives for other talented sportsmen and women to strive to get into the games wherever they are held. But let us hope that their officials make sure that they all get the same quality of training that they underwent for the recently ended SEAG to ensure that this one was not just a fluke.
***
Even if I am not sure where Timor Leste is, I sympathized with its athletes for not getting any medal several days after the games began. But, at least they did not go home empty-handed, they did get six in their bag when they left – one silver and six bronzes. At least nobody got zero, and who knows? Timor Leste may spring a surprise in the next encounters. As of now the participating athletes must be looking forward already to the next edition of the SEAG, and the rest must be focusing their preparations on the Philippine delegation.
***
All right, everybody agrees that the games were successful, but it was not very pleasant to hear Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano himself gushing over its success, being the chairman. He could have waited for others – columnists, and his fellow congressmen – to praise his efforts, instead of himself exulting about it and saying that the country made history because participants (not identified) lauded it as the “biggest and grandest edition so far”. Apparently modesty is not his main virtue. What about the start of the games, was it the grandest too?
***
So it’s no longer a joking matter, Democrats have become very serious about their move to impeach President Donald Trump. What they are poised to file against him are charges for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. While Trump appears to be belittling the chances of their success, he must be bothered all the same even if he is relying on the Senate that has more Republicans. It is the Lower House where there is Nancy Pelosi as Speaker, who is in the forefront of the moves to impeach him. If the movers prevail, he will become only the third American president to suffer that fate.
***
Now people who want to stay in the United States but are not supposed to be qualified have found another means of justifying their stay. They can claim that they are being persecuted by the Administration and voila! a sympathetic judge might just grant them asylum. Such a case was reported recently and I bet a lot of Pinoys looking for some justification for their plan to immigrate, could just “invite” persecution, and get a good lawyer to help them get in. That simple?
***
Of course Malacañang was quick to deny that no persecution of critics is happening here. If anyone will point out the recent statement of the President that he will not sign the renewal of the franchise of the media entity, the very popular ABS-CBN, well, we will soon know whether he really means it, because the year is ending and renewal of such franchises will take place. Did he really mean it or has the media mogul taken steps to mollify him? We will know by year’s end.
***
It is clear that Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson is not the fair-haired boy of the Senate. To some of the members, he must be considered the fly in the ointment or the worm in the apple. That is because he continues to expose what others may consider a windfall for them as they prepare for re-election, or other projects that could assure it. His latest revelation that P83 BILLION for pork barrel had been inserted in its budget at the last minute, will surely not endear him to the rest, but it seems as if he doesn’t care, either for the money he may also be entitled to, or the dagger looks others may throw his way. Ah, but there is only one Ping Lacson there, and that’s how unlucky we are.*
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/December/13/twinkling.htm
***
Well, the glow of the gold medals will shine for a long time, but the monetary prizes to be given to the winners will surely add to the happiness and pride of their families. I am sure stories like those will be further incentives for other talented sportsmen and women to strive to get into the games wherever they are held. But let us hope that their officials make sure that they all get the same quality of training that they underwent for the recently ended SEAG to ensure that this one was not just a fluke.
***
Even if I am not sure where Timor Leste is, I sympathized with its athletes for not getting any medal several days after the games began. But, at least they did not go home empty-handed, they did get six in their bag when they left – one silver and six bronzes. At least nobody got zero, and who knows? Timor Leste may spring a surprise in the next encounters. As of now the participating athletes must be looking forward already to the next edition of the SEAG, and the rest must be focusing their preparations on the Philippine delegation.
***
All right, everybody agrees that the games were successful, but it was not very pleasant to hear Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano himself gushing over its success, being the chairman. He could have waited for others – columnists, and his fellow congressmen – to praise his efforts, instead of himself exulting about it and saying that the country made history because participants (not identified) lauded it as the “biggest and grandest edition so far”. Apparently modesty is not his main virtue. What about the start of the games, was it the grandest too?
***
So it’s no longer a joking matter, Democrats have become very serious about their move to impeach President Donald Trump. What they are poised to file against him are charges for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress. While Trump appears to be belittling the chances of their success, he must be bothered all the same even if he is relying on the Senate that has more Republicans. It is the Lower House where there is Nancy Pelosi as Speaker, who is in the forefront of the moves to impeach him. If the movers prevail, he will become only the third American president to suffer that fate.
***
Now people who want to stay in the United States but are not supposed to be qualified have found another means of justifying their stay. They can claim that they are being persecuted by the Administration and voila! a sympathetic judge might just grant them asylum. Such a case was reported recently and I bet a lot of Pinoys looking for some justification for their plan to immigrate, could just “invite” persecution, and get a good lawyer to help them get in. That simple?
***
Of course Malacañang was quick to deny that no persecution of critics is happening here. If anyone will point out the recent statement of the President that he will not sign the renewal of the franchise of the media entity, the very popular ABS-CBN, well, we will soon know whether he really means it, because the year is ending and renewal of such franchises will take place. Did he really mean it or has the media mogul taken steps to mollify him? We will know by year’s end.
***
It is clear that Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson is not the fair-haired boy of the Senate. To some of the members, he must be considered the fly in the ointment or the worm in the apple. That is because he continues to expose what others may consider a windfall for them as they prepare for re-election, or other projects that could assure it. His latest revelation that P83 BILLION for pork barrel had been inserted in its budget at the last minute, will surely not endear him to the rest, but it seems as if he doesn’t care, either for the money he may also be entitled to, or the dagger looks others may throw his way. Ah, but there is only one Ping Lacson there, and that’s how unlucky we are.*
http://www.visayandailystar.com/2019/December/13/twinkling.htm
Friday, December 13, 2019
Sotto says revision of ‘Lupang Hinirang’ was just his wish
Senate President Vicente Sotto III clarified Friday that his proposal to amend the national anthem, “Lupang Hinirang,” was just a composer’s wish.
Sotto said he has no plans of filing a bill to change what he called the “defeatist” line from “ang mamatay nang dahil sa iyo” to “ang ipaglaban kalayaan mo.”
“Not at all! It’s just a usual wish of a composer who thinks a word or two can stand improvement in any song, whether it’s an anthem or any song,” he said in a text message to GMA News Online when asked how serious was he in his proposed revision.
He said he is “more concerned and serious about the way our national anthem is being sung.”
“Pronunciation and intonation is incorrect in some words and phrases,” he added.
On his Twitter account, the Senate leader posted a video of singer Joey Ayala titled “How Lupang Hinirang ought to be sung.”
He also tweeted that the original translation from Spanish to English to Filipino was the cause of the wrong cadence of words.
Sotto said he just mentioned what has been bothering him for a long time during the interpellation on the proposal to add a ninth ray to the sun on the Philippine flag.
“Is there a possibility of taking a second look at the national anthem. It’s in the same law. I’m not suggesting it right now, I’m just saying that you might as well look into the entire law and that includes the Philippine national anthem,” he said during his exchange with Senator Richard Gordon.
He expressed dismay that some people are imposing their opinion on others.
“Kaso yung mga ‘know it alls,’ they want to impose their opinion on other people,” he said.
Asked how he was handling his critics, he said they should just mind their own business.
“That’s my opinion and I have not done anything to infuse to them my opinion,” he said. — RSJ, GMA News
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/668618/sotto-says-revision-of-lupang-hinirang-was-just-his-wish/story/
(UPDATE) Instead of amending the national anthem law; Senate President Sotto told rival broadcasters to stop producing their own version of national anthem music video on signing off and on, in favor of the Philippine National Anthem 1998 Centennial Version during the Presidency of Joseph Estrada (full, digitally remastered in 1080p HD widescreen and 4K UHD with end tagline with voiceover saying: “Ang watawat at pambansang awit ay sagisag ng ating pagka-Pilipino. Igalang natin at ipagpitagan ang mga ito” plus Philippine Centennial Logo and special thanks to) aired on ABS-CBN, S&A, PTV, TV5, 5 Plus, IBC and BEAM during sign-off and on messages also during the first screening and last full show of movie in SM, Waltermart and Citymall Cinema moviehouses nationwide while the 1994 Philippine National Anthem digitally remastered in 1080p HD widescreen and 4K UHD full version produced by BPI full version aired on GMA and GMA News TV.
Sotto said he has no plans of filing a bill to change what he called the “defeatist” line from “ang mamatay nang dahil sa iyo” to “ang ipaglaban kalayaan mo.”
“Not at all! It’s just a usual wish of a composer who thinks a word or two can stand improvement in any song, whether it’s an anthem or any song,” he said in a text message to GMA News Online when asked how serious was he in his proposed revision.
He said he is “more concerned and serious about the way our national anthem is being sung.”
“Pronunciation and intonation is incorrect in some words and phrases,” he added.
On his Twitter account, the Senate leader posted a video of singer Joey Ayala titled “How Lupang Hinirang ought to be sung.”
He also tweeted that the original translation from Spanish to English to Filipino was the cause of the wrong cadence of words.
Sotto said he just mentioned what has been bothering him for a long time during the interpellation on the proposal to add a ninth ray to the sun on the Philippine flag.
“Is there a possibility of taking a second look at the national anthem. It’s in the same law. I’m not suggesting it right now, I’m just saying that you might as well look into the entire law and that includes the Philippine national anthem,” he said during his exchange with Senator Richard Gordon.
He expressed dismay that some people are imposing their opinion on others.
“Kaso yung mga ‘know it alls,’ they want to impose their opinion on other people,” he said.
Asked how he was handling his critics, he said they should just mind their own business.
“That’s my opinion and I have not done anything to infuse to them my opinion,” he said. — RSJ, GMA News
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/news/nation/668618/sotto-says-revision-of-lupang-hinirang-was-just-his-wish/story/
(UPDATE) Instead of amending the national anthem law; Senate President Sotto told rival broadcasters to stop producing their own version of national anthem music video on signing off and on, in favor of the Philippine National Anthem 1998 Centennial Version during the Presidency of Joseph Estrada (full, digitally remastered in 1080p HD widescreen and 4K UHD with end tagline with voiceover saying: “Ang watawat at pambansang awit ay sagisag ng ating pagka-Pilipino. Igalang natin at ipagpitagan ang mga ito” plus Philippine Centennial Logo and special thanks to) aired on ABS-CBN, S&A, PTV, TV5, 5 Plus, IBC and BEAM during sign-off and on messages also during the first screening and last full show of movie in SM, Waltermart and Citymall Cinema moviehouses nationwide while the 1994 Philippine National Anthem digitally remastered in 1080p HD widescreen and 4K UHD full version produced by BPI full version aired on GMA and GMA News TV.
Catriona Gray pays tribute to Stella Araneta, Bb Pilipinas
'I really felt they trusted in my vision and allowed me to represent the Philippines in the best that I could,' says Catriona of Bb Pilipinas which has lost the Miss Universe franchise
Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray has paid tribute to Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc and its chairperson Stella Araneta, saying she that she expected them to continue to hone "amazing women to represent the country" in international pageants even after BPCI lost the Miss Universe franchise.
Catriona made the statement on Thursday, December 12, when asked to comment on the non-renewal of the Miss Universe organization with BPCI after 55 years.
"I feel like as time goes on, a lot of different brand expand, they evolve. But I want to pay homage and honor to Stella Araneta and also Bb Pilipinas for the amazing work that they've done for the last 50 plus years," Catriona said after the contract signing of for upcoming book Conquering Your Universe.
"My experience under them was a very trustful one. I really felt they trusted in my vision and allowed me to represent the Philippines in the best that I could. So it really does feel like an end of an era in a way but I know they will continue being able to really bring amazing women to represent the country," she added.
Bb Pilipinas has sent candidates to the Miss Universe pageant since 1964. It produced 4 winners – Gloria Diaz (1969), Margarita Moran (1973), Pia Wurtzbach (2015), and Catriona.
On Monday, December 9, the Miss Universe Philippines group announced that it would now conduct the search for the Philippines' yearly representative. Miss Universe 2011 3rd runner-up Shamcey Supsup was announced as the national director of the group with renowned pageant coach Jonas Gaffud as creative director.
Bb Pilipinas also confirmed that it had the Miss Universe crown and that they will still continue to send candidates to the remaining titles under them.
"BPCI will continue to focus on its charitable initiatives and the staging of the annual Binibining Pilipinas Pageant – the fairest and most prestigious beauty pageant in the country," the group said.
Tip for new Miss Universe organizers
During the same event, Catriona was asked for tips she could give to the new group that will handle the Miss Universe brand.
One of her tips is to ensure the candidates' authenticity especially in the age of social media.
"I feel like they really need to give the girls a lot of opportunity to tell their story in a very authentic way. 'Cause I feel like with us wanting to share more on social media, and wanting to make more content in social media for things like a pageant, it can feel a little manufactured at times," she said.
"And I feel like if you give the girls an opportunity to really share who they are in whatever way...I would love to learn about the girls, why are they there, who are they, what are they passionate about," Catriona added.
Catriona also defended newly crowned Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi from criticism online about her win.
"I think that it's a sad reality – there continues to be so much criticism and detracting comments online," Catriona said. "Even me, I've received my fair share of bashing and criticism during my year, during my competition. And it's something we as a people should really question: What are our values?"
"It shouldn't be the victim having to do the action. it should be a question of building up our values to know that's not acceptable," she added.
https://www.rappler.com/entertainment/news/247119-catriona-gray-response-non-renewal-miss-universe-franchise-binibining-pilipinas-charities
Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray has paid tribute to Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc and its chairperson Stella Araneta, saying she that she expected them to continue to hone "amazing women to represent the country" in international pageants even after BPCI lost the Miss Universe franchise.
Catriona made the statement on Thursday, December 12, when asked to comment on the non-renewal of the Miss Universe organization with BPCI after 55 years.
"I feel like as time goes on, a lot of different brand expand, they evolve. But I want to pay homage and honor to Stella Araneta and also Bb Pilipinas for the amazing work that they've done for the last 50 plus years," Catriona said after the contract signing of for upcoming book Conquering Your Universe.
"My experience under them was a very trustful one. I really felt they trusted in my vision and allowed me to represent the Philippines in the best that I could. So it really does feel like an end of an era in a way but I know they will continue being able to really bring amazing women to represent the country," she added.
Bb Pilipinas has sent candidates to the Miss Universe pageant since 1964. It produced 4 winners – Gloria Diaz (1969), Margarita Moran (1973), Pia Wurtzbach (2015), and Catriona.
On Monday, December 9, the Miss Universe Philippines group announced that it would now conduct the search for the Philippines' yearly representative. Miss Universe 2011 3rd runner-up Shamcey Supsup was announced as the national director of the group with renowned pageant coach Jonas Gaffud as creative director.
Bb Pilipinas also confirmed that it had the Miss Universe crown and that they will still continue to send candidates to the remaining titles under them.
"BPCI will continue to focus on its charitable initiatives and the staging of the annual Binibining Pilipinas Pageant – the fairest and most prestigious beauty pageant in the country," the group said.
Tip for new Miss Universe organizers
During the same event, Catriona was asked for tips she could give to the new group that will handle the Miss Universe brand.
One of her tips is to ensure the candidates' authenticity especially in the age of social media.
"I feel like they really need to give the girls a lot of opportunity to tell their story in a very authentic way. 'Cause I feel like with us wanting to share more on social media, and wanting to make more content in social media for things like a pageant, it can feel a little manufactured at times," she said.
"And I feel like if you give the girls an opportunity to really share who they are in whatever way...I would love to learn about the girls, why are they there, who are they, what are they passionate about," Catriona added.
Catriona also defended newly crowned Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi from criticism online about her win.
"I think that it's a sad reality – there continues to be so much criticism and detracting comments online," Catriona said. "Even me, I've received my fair share of bashing and criticism during my year, during my competition. And it's something we as a people should really question: What are our values?"
"It shouldn't be the victim having to do the action. it should be a question of building up our values to know that's not acceptable," she added.
https://www.rappler.com/entertainment/news/247119-catriona-gray-response-non-renewal-miss-universe-franchise-binibining-pilipinas-charities
[OPINION] ABS-CBN and its struggle to obtain its franchise
While the law remains unchanged, what now will become of the country’s biggest television network?
I can't imagine our home without ABS-CBN.
This television station and the shows it produces have been a staple in our household. My father cannot let a single episode of "Ang Probinsyano" pass, in the same way that my mother would give up her siesta just to watch Kapamilya Gold. (READ: FAST FACTS: What you should know about ABS-CBN)
Yet the bullish threat of the man in Malacañan Palace may put an end to the never-ending saga of Cardo Dalisay.
It has happened before.
In 1974, President Ferdinand Marcos issued PD No. 576-A, “Regulating the Ownership and Operation of Radio and Television Stations and for other Purposes.” This presidential decree mandated that no radio station or television channel may obtain a franchise unless it has sufficient capital for its operation. The law further provided that “all franchises or other forms of authority to operate radio or television broadcasting systems shall terminate on December 31, 1981.”
Associated Communications and Wireless Services-United Broadcasting Networks (ACWS-UBN) was one of the franchise holders affected by this decree. Nonetheless, it continued operating its radio stations under permits granted by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).
The succeeding turn of events worked against ACWS-UBN.
On May 3, 1994, the NTC, the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas (KBP), and the Committee on Legislative Franchises of Congress forged a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The MOU specifically provided that the NTC shall continue to issue and grant permits or authorization to operate radio and television broadcast stations with a two-year validity, within which the permittee shall be required to file an application for legislative franchise with Congress not later than December 31, 1994. If the permittee fails to secure its franchise within this period, the NTC shall not extend or renew its permit any further.
On December 20, 1994, ACWS-UBN filed with Congress an application for its franchise. But pending its approval, NTC issued to ACWS-UBN a temporary permit to operate a television station via Channel 25 of the UHF Band from June 29, 1995 to June 28, 1997.
Unfortunately, ACWS-UBN was not able to obtain the required congressional franchise. After some squabbles at the administrative level, NTC recalled the frequency band assigned to ACWS-UBN for its failure to obtain the “much needed” franchise. ACWS-UBN fought it out all the way to the Supreme Court. One of the arguments raised by ACWS-UBN is that a legislative franchise is not anymore needed considering that an NTC permit will suffice.
On February 17, 2003, the Supreme Court held in the case of ACWS-UBN versus National Telecommunications Commission (GR No 144109, February 17, 2003) that the present state of laws continues to require a franchise for the operation of radio and television broadcasting stations. Therefore, the order of NTC recalling the frequency band assigned to ACWS-UBN is valid and in accordance with the law. With the recall of its frequency band, ACWS-UBN cannot now anymore operate as a broadcast station.
And this may happen again.
The fate of ACWS-UBN could also be the fate of ABS-CBN. The President has said it. He will block the renewal of the franchise of ABS-CBN which will expire on March 30, 2020. In light of this threat coming from no less than the Chief Executive, ABS-CBN may likewise cease to operate, just like ACWS-UBN. The commonality – denial of legislative franchise.
But what is with this legislative franchise anyway that makes it the elixir of a television network?
The Supreme Court in the case of Radio Communications Philippines, Incorporated versus National Telecommunications Commission (GR No 68729, May 29, 1987), explained that:
"A franchise started out as a 'royal privilege or (a) branch of the King's prerogative, subsisting in the hands of a subject.' This definition was given by Finch, adopted by Blackstone, and accepted by every authority since. Today, a franchise, being merely a privilege emanating from the sovereign power of the state and owing its existence to a grant, is subject to regulation by the state itself by virtue of its police power through its administrative agencies."
The Supreme Court interpreted the use of the term franchise under Section 1 of PD 576-A to mean the legislative franchise issued by Congress. To distinguish, the franchise obtained by the network from Congress is its primary franchise, while the certificate, permit, or authority to operate issued by the NTC is called secondary franchise.
But why should the existence of a television network – a juridical person incorporated under a general law (which by the way under the Revised Corporation Code may enjoy perpetual existence) – depend on the grant of congressional imprimatur, when all the franchise states, after all, is for the grantee to comply with the conditions imposed by the concerned governmental agency, in this case, the NTC?
These conditions are duplicitous because the franchise grantee is required to secure from NTC the appropriate permits and licenses for the construction and operation of the network’s stations and facilities and shall not use any frequency in the radio/television spectrum without NTC’s authorization.
If that is the case, then, legislative franchise will serve no other purpose than to compel the applicant to lobby for the approval of its franchise in Congress. The purpose of the franchise is redundant; the very same law granting the franchise will eventually delegate to NTC the issuance of permits and licenses for the construction and operation of the network’s stations and facilities.
The very same decision of the Supreme Court in the ACWS-UBN case admits this redundancy of requirement. The Court sided with the views of a public utilities lawyer when the latter observes that “there seems to be no valid reason for the requirement of franchise except to impose added burden and expenses on the part of the applicant.” The Supreme Court continued, quoting heavily from the works of lawyer RE Subong. Reiterating it here is indispensable:
“As will be noted, a legislative franchise is required to install and operate a radio station before an applicant can apply for a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a radio station based in any part of the country. Under Act No, 3846 of 1929, Sec 1, it was provided that no one may install and operate a radio station ‘without having first obtained a franchise therefore from the Congress of the Philippines.’
"Since then, this has been strictly followed. And this holds true with respect to application for electric, telephone, and many other telecommunications services. Before, even mere application for authority to operate an ice plant must have prior congressional franchise. But this was not strictly followed until ice plant operations were eventually deregulated. Right now, both houses of Congress are saddled with bills for the grant of legislative franchise to operate this and that public utility service in various places in the Philippines. During sessions, we hear the time wasted on reports and considerations of these bills. The legislature is empowered and has created respective regulatory bodies with requisite expertise to handle franchising and regulation of such types of public utility services – why not just entrust these functions to them?"
Sadly, even the highest court of the land can only do so much.
The parting words of the Supreme Court in the said decision runs as follows: "The call to dispense with the requisite legislative franchise must, however, be addressed to Congress as the lawmaker of the land for the Court’s function is to interpret and not to rewrite the law. As long as the law remains unchanged, the requirement of a franchise to operate a television station must be upheld."
And the law remains unchanged. Up to now.
If the lawmakers are reluctant to repeal the statute that requires franchise for television networks, these networks have no choice but to lobby Congress in vain hope that its members will legislate on the issuance of franchise.
But then again, even if Congress will accommodate the application of franchise by the networks, such grant will still be at the mercy of the President. In the case of ABS-CBN, the President seems to have made up his mind to block it. He can easily veto the bill and return it to the house from where it originated. And ABS-CBN will have to lobby again to Congress for a two-thirds vote for the reconsideration of the approved or vetoed bill.
And while the law remains unchanged, what now will become of the country’s biggest television network?
The law is still on the side of the lawmakers, and ABS-CBN may seem to be running out of time. Trapped in this legal dilemma, ABS-CBN has to carve out an exception from the existing laws to suit its interest. And it would take an open-minded and pragmatic tribunal which will be convinced by this experimental legal stratagem.
One way to do it is to attack the validity or constitutionality of the very law. Let PD 576-A be revisited by the court, and have it declared invalid or unconstitutional on the ground of violation of due process of the law and violation of the equal protection of the laws. The US Supreme Court decision on Hurtado vs California (110 US 516, 536 [1884]) may serve as a guidepost as it declares that “the arbitrary power, enforcing its edicts to the injury of the persons and property of its subjects, is not law, whether manifested as the decree of a personal monarch or of an impersonal multitude.”
In attacking the constitutionality of the law, the courts – to borrow the words of Justice Harlan of the US Supreme Court in the case of Mugler versus Kansas (123 US 623, 661 [1887]) – “are under a solemn duty to look at the substance of things, whenever they enter upon the inquiry whether the legislature has transcended the limits of its authority.”
The substance of things in the ABS-CBN case is to define whether PD 576-A has for its purpose that which will serve public interest in general, requiring state intervention, and whether the means employed are reasonably necessary to accomplish that purpose, and is not unduly oppressive. What is the underlying purpose of securing a legislative franchise before a television station can operate? If the purpose is to regulate networks on account of limited radio frequencies and to prevent monopoly, will such purpose be achieved by requiring them to secure franchise?
Or better yet, challenge the arbitrary exercise of legislative power.
Thus, the question to be posed is crafted in this wise: Given the fact that a television network must first secure a legislative franchise from Congress before it can validly operate, what are the criteria set in the law for the applicant to be granted the franchise?
PD 576-A provides the answer. The applicant must have sufficient capital on the basis of equity for its operation for at least one year, including purchase of equipment. This is the only statutory requirement for the grant of the franchise. The rest of the law imposes certain restrictions and undertakings. Thus, if the applicant can satisfactorily show that it has sufficient capital, there is no reason for Congress to deny the franchise.
We have no idea what guidelines Congress follows in granting or renewing a franchise. Even a review of at least 3 legislation's which granted the renewal of the franchises of the 3 other networks do not give us a hint as to how Congress decided on them.
Consider the following. Republic Act No. 8954 lapsed into law on September 2, 2000 without the signature of then President Joseph Estrada. It thereby approved the grant of franchise to Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation, allowing Channel 13 to operate for 25 years. Similarly, RA 11320 lapsed into law without the signature of President Rodrigo Duterte on April 22, 2019. This law granted the renewal of the franchise of TV5, also for 25 years. RA 10925 was passed into law on April 21, 2017, granting the renewal of the franchise of GMA Network for the same period.
These 3 pieces of legislation pertaining to the franchise of these television networks contain a general format as to the nature and scope of the franchise, manner of operation, prior NTC approval, responsibility to the public, right of the government, term of franchise, tax provision, general broadcast policy, among others.
So if these 3 other networks have been able to obtain their franchises, what reason could Congress possibly have to deny the renewal of the ABS-CBN franchise? In the absence of a valid and compelling reason for its denial, Congress could be acting arbitrarily against ABS-CBN. There is no difference between a law which denies equal protection and a law (or a lawmaking body) which permits such denial, according to one decision of the Supreme Court.
Again, these legal stratagems have not been tested. Their potential may be preempted by strict interpretation of the law. And if these will not be convincing for the court, I keep my fingers crossed. I will always hope that all these apprehensions will not come true. For all we know, Congress may work overtime to enact the law granting the franchise to ABS-CBN. And I still hope that the President will not veto it, or he could simply let it approved into law. Or perhaps, the threat of the President is only one of his many bluffs that should not be called.
My hopes are high. I still look forward to watching the much-awaited Liz-Quen teleserye as well as the possible reunion of Julia Montes and Coco Martin on primetime television.
After obtaining his Bachelor's in Liberal Arts from a private Catholic college in Guagua, Pampanga, KS David worked as a meter reader and field collector for his local water district. He eventually attended law school with help from a cooperative, though he has yet to pass the bar.
https://www.rappler.com/views/imho/247059-opinion-abs-cbn-struggle-obtain-franchise
I can't imagine our home without ABS-CBN.
This television station and the shows it produces have been a staple in our household. My father cannot let a single episode of "Ang Probinsyano" pass, in the same way that my mother would give up her siesta just to watch Kapamilya Gold. (READ: FAST FACTS: What you should know about ABS-CBN)
Yet the bullish threat of the man in Malacañan Palace may put an end to the never-ending saga of Cardo Dalisay.
It has happened before.
In 1974, President Ferdinand Marcos issued PD No. 576-A, “Regulating the Ownership and Operation of Radio and Television Stations and for other Purposes.” This presidential decree mandated that no radio station or television channel may obtain a franchise unless it has sufficient capital for its operation. The law further provided that “all franchises or other forms of authority to operate radio or television broadcasting systems shall terminate on December 31, 1981.”
Associated Communications and Wireless Services-United Broadcasting Networks (ACWS-UBN) was one of the franchise holders affected by this decree. Nonetheless, it continued operating its radio stations under permits granted by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).
The succeeding turn of events worked against ACWS-UBN.
On May 3, 1994, the NTC, the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas (KBP), and the Committee on Legislative Franchises of Congress forged a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The MOU specifically provided that the NTC shall continue to issue and grant permits or authorization to operate radio and television broadcast stations with a two-year validity, within which the permittee shall be required to file an application for legislative franchise with Congress not later than December 31, 1994. If the permittee fails to secure its franchise within this period, the NTC shall not extend or renew its permit any further.
On December 20, 1994, ACWS-UBN filed with Congress an application for its franchise. But pending its approval, NTC issued to ACWS-UBN a temporary permit to operate a television station via Channel 25 of the UHF Band from June 29, 1995 to June 28, 1997.
Unfortunately, ACWS-UBN was not able to obtain the required congressional franchise. After some squabbles at the administrative level, NTC recalled the frequency band assigned to ACWS-UBN for its failure to obtain the “much needed” franchise. ACWS-UBN fought it out all the way to the Supreme Court. One of the arguments raised by ACWS-UBN is that a legislative franchise is not anymore needed considering that an NTC permit will suffice.
On February 17, 2003, the Supreme Court held in the case of ACWS-UBN versus National Telecommunications Commission (GR No 144109, February 17, 2003) that the present state of laws continues to require a franchise for the operation of radio and television broadcasting stations. Therefore, the order of NTC recalling the frequency band assigned to ACWS-UBN is valid and in accordance with the law. With the recall of its frequency band, ACWS-UBN cannot now anymore operate as a broadcast station.
And this may happen again.
The fate of ACWS-UBN could also be the fate of ABS-CBN. The President has said it. He will block the renewal of the franchise of ABS-CBN which will expire on March 30, 2020. In light of this threat coming from no less than the Chief Executive, ABS-CBN may likewise cease to operate, just like ACWS-UBN. The commonality – denial of legislative franchise.
But what is with this legislative franchise anyway that makes it the elixir of a television network?
The Supreme Court in the case of Radio Communications Philippines, Incorporated versus National Telecommunications Commission (GR No 68729, May 29, 1987), explained that:
"A franchise started out as a 'royal privilege or (a) branch of the King's prerogative, subsisting in the hands of a subject.' This definition was given by Finch, adopted by Blackstone, and accepted by every authority since. Today, a franchise, being merely a privilege emanating from the sovereign power of the state and owing its existence to a grant, is subject to regulation by the state itself by virtue of its police power through its administrative agencies."
The Supreme Court interpreted the use of the term franchise under Section 1 of PD 576-A to mean the legislative franchise issued by Congress. To distinguish, the franchise obtained by the network from Congress is its primary franchise, while the certificate, permit, or authority to operate issued by the NTC is called secondary franchise.
But why should the existence of a television network – a juridical person incorporated under a general law (which by the way under the Revised Corporation Code may enjoy perpetual existence) – depend on the grant of congressional imprimatur, when all the franchise states, after all, is for the grantee to comply with the conditions imposed by the concerned governmental agency, in this case, the NTC?
These conditions are duplicitous because the franchise grantee is required to secure from NTC the appropriate permits and licenses for the construction and operation of the network’s stations and facilities and shall not use any frequency in the radio/television spectrum without NTC’s authorization.
If that is the case, then, legislative franchise will serve no other purpose than to compel the applicant to lobby for the approval of its franchise in Congress. The purpose of the franchise is redundant; the very same law granting the franchise will eventually delegate to NTC the issuance of permits and licenses for the construction and operation of the network’s stations and facilities.
The very same decision of the Supreme Court in the ACWS-UBN case admits this redundancy of requirement. The Court sided with the views of a public utilities lawyer when the latter observes that “there seems to be no valid reason for the requirement of franchise except to impose added burden and expenses on the part of the applicant.” The Supreme Court continued, quoting heavily from the works of lawyer RE Subong. Reiterating it here is indispensable:
“As will be noted, a legislative franchise is required to install and operate a radio station before an applicant can apply for a Certificate of Public Convenience to operate a radio station based in any part of the country. Under Act No, 3846 of 1929, Sec 1, it was provided that no one may install and operate a radio station ‘without having first obtained a franchise therefore from the Congress of the Philippines.’
"Since then, this has been strictly followed. And this holds true with respect to application for electric, telephone, and many other telecommunications services. Before, even mere application for authority to operate an ice plant must have prior congressional franchise. But this was not strictly followed until ice plant operations were eventually deregulated. Right now, both houses of Congress are saddled with bills for the grant of legislative franchise to operate this and that public utility service in various places in the Philippines. During sessions, we hear the time wasted on reports and considerations of these bills. The legislature is empowered and has created respective regulatory bodies with requisite expertise to handle franchising and regulation of such types of public utility services – why not just entrust these functions to them?"
Sadly, even the highest court of the land can only do so much.
The parting words of the Supreme Court in the said decision runs as follows: "The call to dispense with the requisite legislative franchise must, however, be addressed to Congress as the lawmaker of the land for the Court’s function is to interpret and not to rewrite the law. As long as the law remains unchanged, the requirement of a franchise to operate a television station must be upheld."
And the law remains unchanged. Up to now.
If the lawmakers are reluctant to repeal the statute that requires franchise for television networks, these networks have no choice but to lobby Congress in vain hope that its members will legislate on the issuance of franchise.
But then again, even if Congress will accommodate the application of franchise by the networks, such grant will still be at the mercy of the President. In the case of ABS-CBN, the President seems to have made up his mind to block it. He can easily veto the bill and return it to the house from where it originated. And ABS-CBN will have to lobby again to Congress for a two-thirds vote for the reconsideration of the approved or vetoed bill.
And while the law remains unchanged, what now will become of the country’s biggest television network?
The law is still on the side of the lawmakers, and ABS-CBN may seem to be running out of time. Trapped in this legal dilemma, ABS-CBN has to carve out an exception from the existing laws to suit its interest. And it would take an open-minded and pragmatic tribunal which will be convinced by this experimental legal stratagem.
One way to do it is to attack the validity or constitutionality of the very law. Let PD 576-A be revisited by the court, and have it declared invalid or unconstitutional on the ground of violation of due process of the law and violation of the equal protection of the laws. The US Supreme Court decision on Hurtado vs California (110 US 516, 536 [1884]) may serve as a guidepost as it declares that “the arbitrary power, enforcing its edicts to the injury of the persons and property of its subjects, is not law, whether manifested as the decree of a personal monarch or of an impersonal multitude.”
In attacking the constitutionality of the law, the courts – to borrow the words of Justice Harlan of the US Supreme Court in the case of Mugler versus Kansas (123 US 623, 661 [1887]) – “are under a solemn duty to look at the substance of things, whenever they enter upon the inquiry whether the legislature has transcended the limits of its authority.”
The substance of things in the ABS-CBN case is to define whether PD 576-A has for its purpose that which will serve public interest in general, requiring state intervention, and whether the means employed are reasonably necessary to accomplish that purpose, and is not unduly oppressive. What is the underlying purpose of securing a legislative franchise before a television station can operate? If the purpose is to regulate networks on account of limited radio frequencies and to prevent monopoly, will such purpose be achieved by requiring them to secure franchise?
Or better yet, challenge the arbitrary exercise of legislative power.
Thus, the question to be posed is crafted in this wise: Given the fact that a television network must first secure a legislative franchise from Congress before it can validly operate, what are the criteria set in the law for the applicant to be granted the franchise?
PD 576-A provides the answer. The applicant must have sufficient capital on the basis of equity for its operation for at least one year, including purchase of equipment. This is the only statutory requirement for the grant of the franchise. The rest of the law imposes certain restrictions and undertakings. Thus, if the applicant can satisfactorily show that it has sufficient capital, there is no reason for Congress to deny the franchise.
We have no idea what guidelines Congress follows in granting or renewing a franchise. Even a review of at least 3 legislation's which granted the renewal of the franchises of the 3 other networks do not give us a hint as to how Congress decided on them.
Consider the following. Republic Act No. 8954 lapsed into law on September 2, 2000 without the signature of then President Joseph Estrada. It thereby approved the grant of franchise to Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation, allowing Channel 13 to operate for 25 years. Similarly, RA 11320 lapsed into law without the signature of President Rodrigo Duterte on April 22, 2019. This law granted the renewal of the franchise of TV5, also for 25 years. RA 10925 was passed into law on April 21, 2017, granting the renewal of the franchise of GMA Network for the same period.
These 3 pieces of legislation pertaining to the franchise of these television networks contain a general format as to the nature and scope of the franchise, manner of operation, prior NTC approval, responsibility to the public, right of the government, term of franchise, tax provision, general broadcast policy, among others.
So if these 3 other networks have been able to obtain their franchises, what reason could Congress possibly have to deny the renewal of the ABS-CBN franchise? In the absence of a valid and compelling reason for its denial, Congress could be acting arbitrarily against ABS-CBN. There is no difference between a law which denies equal protection and a law (or a lawmaking body) which permits such denial, according to one decision of the Supreme Court.
Again, these legal stratagems have not been tested. Their potential may be preempted by strict interpretation of the law. And if these will not be convincing for the court, I keep my fingers crossed. I will always hope that all these apprehensions will not come true. For all we know, Congress may work overtime to enact the law granting the franchise to ABS-CBN. And I still hope that the President will not veto it, or he could simply let it approved into law. Or perhaps, the threat of the President is only one of his many bluffs that should not be called.
My hopes are high. I still look forward to watching the much-awaited Liz-Quen teleserye as well as the possible reunion of Julia Montes and Coco Martin on primetime television.
After obtaining his Bachelor's in Liberal Arts from a private Catholic college in Guagua, Pampanga, KS David worked as a meter reader and field collector for his local water district. He eventually attended law school with help from a cooperative, though he has yet to pass the bar.
https://www.rappler.com/views/imho/247059-opinion-abs-cbn-struggle-obtain-franchise
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