2014 PMPC Star Awards for Television

The 28th Star Awards for Television will unfold on November 23, 2014 at the Ballroom of the Solaire Resorts and Casino, Paranaque City.
This annual event honoring local television shows is a joint effort of the Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) and Airtime Marketing, Inc., headed by Ms. Tessie Celestino-Howard. The awards telecast is set on November 30 at ABS-CBN's Sunday's Best.
Star Magic talents Piolo Pascual, Enchong Dee and Kim Chiu will serve as hosts of the evening's awards presentation.

Here are the nominees of the 28th Star Awards for Television:

BEST TV STATION
ABS-CBN 2
Aksyon TV
9TV
GMA-7
GMA NEWS TV
IBC 13
PTV 4
NET 25
ABS-CBN Sports + Action 23
TV 5
UNTV 37

BEST PRIMETIME TV SERIES
Ang Dalawang Mrs. Real (GMA-7)
Ikaw Lamang (ABS-CBN 2)
Honesto (ABS-CBN 2)
Muling Buksan ang Puso (ABS-CBN 2)
Niño (GMA-7)
Sana Bukas Pa ang Kahapon (ABS-CBN 2)
The Legal Wife (ABS-CBN 2)

BEST DAYTIME DRAMA SERIES
Be Careful With My Heart (ABS-CBN 2)
Dading (GMA-7)
Galema(ABS-CBN 2)
Innamorata (GMA-7)
Magkano Ba Ang Pag-ibig? (GMA-7)
Moon of Desire (ABS-CBN 2)
The Half Sisters (GMA-7)

BEST DRAMA ACTOR
Gerald Anderson (Bukas Na Lang Kita Mamahalin/ABS-CBN 2)
Dingdong Dantes (Ang Dalawang Mrs. Real/ GMA-7)
Enchong Dee (Muling Buksan ang Puso/ABS-CBN 2)
Gabby Eigenmann (Dading/GMA-7)
Coco Martin (Ikaw Lamang/ ABS-CBN 2)
Kristoffer Martin (Kahit Nasaan Ka Man/GMA-7)
Jericho Rosales (The Legal Wife/ABS-CBN 2)
Miguel Tanfelix (Niňo/GMA-7)

BEST DRAMA ACTRESS
Bea Alonzo (Sana Bukas Pa Ang Kahapon/ABS-CBN 2)
Kim Chiu (Ikaw Lamang/ABS-CBN 2)
Angel Locsin (The Legal Wife/ABS-CBN 2)
Lovi Poe (Ang Dalawang Mrs. Real/ GMA-7)
Maja Salvador (The Legal Wife/ABS-CBN 2)
Maricel Soriano (Ang Dalawang Mrs. Real/ GMA-7)
Dawn Zulueta (Bukas Na Lang Kita Mamahalin/ABS-CBN 2)

BEST DRAMA SUPPORTING ACTOR
Tirso Cruz lll (Ikaw Lamang/ ABS-CBN 2)
Jake Cuenca (Ikaw Lamang/ ABS-CBN 2)
John Estrada (Ikaw Lamang/ ABS-CBN 2)
Christopher de Leon (Ikaw Lamang/ ABS-CBN 2)
Eddie Garcia (Honesto/ ABS-CBN 2)
Joel Torre (Ikaw Lamang/ ABS-CBN 2)
Ronaldo Valdez (Ikaw Lamang/ ABS-CBN 2)

BEST DRAMA SUPPORTING ACTRESS
Angel Aquino (Ikaw Lamang/ ABS-CBN 2)
Amy Austria (Ikaw Lamang/ ABS-CBN 2)
KC Concepcion (Ikaw Lamang/ ABS-CBN 2)
Cherie Gil (Muling Buksan Ang Puso/ ABS-CBN 2)
Julia Montes (Ikaw Lamang/ ABS-CBN 2)
Cherry Pie Picache (Ikaw Lamang/ ABS-CBN 2)
Manilyn Reynes (Got To Believe/ABS-CBN 2)

BEST DRAMA ANTHOLOGY
Ipaglaban Mo (ABS-CBN 2)
Magpakailanman (GMA-7)
Wagas(GMA News TV)
Maynila(GMA-7)

BEST SINGLE PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR
Carlo Aquino (Wedding Gown/Maalaala Mo Kaya/ABS-CBN 2)
Arjo Atayde (Dos Por Dos/Maalaala Mo Kaya/ABS-CBN 2)
Gabby Eigenmann (My Psychotic Husband/ Magpakailanman/ GMA-7)
Zaijan Jaranilla (Karayom/ Maalaala Mo Kaya/ ABS-CBN 2)
Jose Manalo (Hulog ng Langit/Eat Bulaga Lenten Special/ GMA-7)
Kristoffer Martin (Siga Noon, Beki na Ngayon/Magpakailanman/GMA-7)
Alden Richards (Kawalan ng Karapatan;The Dondon Lanuza Story/Magpakailanman/GMA7)
Smokey Manaloto (Kaya Ba Kitang Itakwil?/Ipaglaban Mo/ABS/CBN 2)

BEST SINGLE PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS
Irma Adlawan (Mikropono/ Maalaala Mo Kaya/ ABS-CBN 2)
Nora Aunor (Studio 5 Original Presents: When I Fall In Love/ TV 5)
Sunshine Cruz (Karayom/ / Maalaala Mo Kaya/ ABS-CBN 2)
Janice de Belen (Ang Lahat ng sa Akin/ Ipaglaban Mo/ ABS-CBN 2)
Yasmien Kurdi (Nalunod na Pag-asa: The Cebu Ship Collision/Magpakailanman/ GMA-7)
Gina Pareño (Ang Inang Hindi Malilimutan/Magpakailanman/ GMA-7)
Maricel Soriano (Kulungan Kandungan/ Eat Bulaga Lenten Special/ GMA-7)
Carmina Villarroel (Sanggol/Maalaala Mo Kaya/ ABS-CBN 2)

BEST CHILD PERFORMER
Marc Justin Alvarez (Ang Dalawang Mrs. Real/GMA7)
Andrea Brillantes (Annaliza/ ABS-CBN 2)
Raikko Matteo (Honesto/ABS-CBN 2)
Mona Louise Rey (My BFF/ GMA-7)
David Remo (Binoy Henyo/GMA7)
Yogo Singh (Maria Mercedes/ ABS-CBN 2)
Jillian Ward ( My BFF/ GMA-7)

BEST NEW MALE TV PERSONALITY
Juan Karlo Labajo (Picture/Maalaala Mo Kaya/ABS-CBN 2)
John Pol (WalangTulugan with the Master Showman/ GMA-7)
Andrei Paras (The Half Sisters/GMA-7)
Manolo Pedrosa (Selfie/Maalaala Mo Kaya/ ABS-CBN 2)
Marco Pingol (My App Boyfie/Wansapanataym/ ABS-CBN 2)
Rafa Siguion Reyna (Niňo/GMA7)
Prince Villanueva (WalangTulugan with the Master Showman/ GMA-7)

BEST NEW FEMALE TV PERSONALITY
Donalyn Bartolome (Spin Nation/ TV 5)
Inah Estrada (Witch-A-Makulit/Wansapanataym/ ABS-CBN 2)
Lyca Gairanod (Red Envelope/ Maalaala Mo Kaya/ ABS-CBN 2)
Gabrielle Garcia (My Destiny/ GMA-7)
Kate Lapus (Pyra/ GMA-7)
Marika Sasaki (WalangTulugan with the Master Showman/ GMA-7)
Yna Uy (WalangTulugan with the Master Showman/ GMA-7)

BEST GAG SHOW
Banana Nite (ABS-CBN 2)
Banana Split: Extra Scoop (ABS-CBN 2)
Goin’ Bulilit (ABS-CBN 2)
Tropa Moko Unli ( TV 5)
Wow Mali Pa Rin( TV 5)

BEST COMEDY SHOW
Ismol Family (GMA-7)
Home Sweetie Home (ABS-CBN 2)
One of the Boys (TV 5)
Pepito Manaloto (GMA-7)
Toda Max (ABS-CBN 2)
Vampire ang Daddy ko (GMA-7)

BEST COMEDY ACTOR
Harvey Bautista (Goin’Bulilit/ABS-CBN 2)
Bugoy Cariňo (Goin’ Bulilit/(ABS-CBN 2)
John Lloyd Cruz (Home Sweetie Home/ABS-CBN 2)
Sef Cadayona (Bubble Gang/GMA-7)
Clarence Delgado (Goin’ Bulilit/ABS-CBN 2)
Vic Sotto (Vampire ang Daddy ko /GMA-7)
Michael V. (Pepito Manaloto/GMA-7)

BEST COMEDY ACTRESS
Ai-Ai delas Alas (Toda Max/ ABS-CBN 2)
Alex Gonzaga (Banana Nite/ABS-CBN 2)
Toni Gonzaga (Home Sweetie Home/ABS-CBN 2)
Angelica Panganiban (Banana Split:Extra Scoop/ ABS-CBN 2)
Rufa Mae Quinto (Bubble Gang/GMA-7)
Manilyn Reynes (Pepito Manaloto/GMA-7)
Nova Villa (Pepito Manaloto/GMA-7)

BEST VARIETY SHOW
Basta Everyday Happy (GMA-7)
Eat Bulaga (GMA-7)
It’s Showtime (ABS-CBN 2)
Wowowillie (TV 5)

BEST MUSICAL VARIETY SHOW
ASAP 19 (ABS-CBN 2)
Letters and Music (Net 25)
Marian (GMA-7)
Sunday All Stars (GMA-7)
The Mega and the Songwriter (TV 5)
This is my Story, This is my Song (GMA News TV)
Walang Tulugan with the Master Showman (GMA-7)

BEST MALE TV HOST
Billy Crawford (It’s Showtime/ ABS-CBN 2)
Vice Ganda (It’s Showtime/ ABS-CBN 2)
Luis Manzano (ASAP 19/ ABS-CBN 2)
Joey de Leon (Eat Bulaga/ GMA-7)
German Moreno (WalangTulugan With the Master Showman/ GMA-7)
Martin Nievera (ASAP 19/ ABS-CBN 2)
Vic Sotto (Eat Bulaga/ GMA-7)

BEST FEMALE TV HOST
Julia Clarete (Eat Bulaga/ GMA-7)
Sharon Cuneta (The Mega and the Songwriter /TV 5)
Anne Curtis (It’s Showtime/ ABS-CBN 2)
Sarah Geronimo (ASAP 19/ ABS-CBN 2)
Nikki Gil (ASAP 19/ ABS-CBN 2)
Toni Gonzaga (ASAP 19/ ABS-CBN 2)
Pia Guanio (Eat Bulaga/ GMA-7)

BEST PUBLIC SERVICE PROGRAM
Bistado (ABS-CBN 2)
Imbestigador (GMA-7)
May Puhunan (ABS-CBN 2)
Red Alert (ABS-CBN 2)
SOCO (ABS-CBN 2)
T3 Enforced (TV 5)
Wish Ko Lang (GMA-7)

BEST PUBLIC SERVICE PROGRAM HOST
Gus Abelgas (SOCO /ABS-CBN 2)
Atom Araulo (Red Alert/ABS-CBN 2)
Julius Babao (Bistado/ABS-CBN 2)
Karen Davila (May Puhunan /ABS-CBN 2)
Mike Enriquez (Imbestigador/(GMA-7)
Vicky Morales (Wish Ko Lang/GMA-7)
Erwin, Ben and Raffy Tulfo ( T3 Enforced/TV 5)

BEST REALITY SHOW
Day Off (GMA News TV)
I Dare You (ABS-CBN 2)
It Takes Gutz to be Gutierrez (TV 5)
Juan Direction (TV5)

BEST REALITY SHOW HOST
Iza Calzado, Matteo Guidicelli & Robi Domingo (The Biggest Loser: Pinoy Edition Double (ABS-CBN 2)
John Prats, Robi Domingo, Deniesse Aguilar, Melai Cantiveros (I Dare You/ABS-CBN 2)
Toni Gonzaga, Bianca Gonzales, John Prats, & Robi Domingo (Pinoy Big Brother All In /ABS-CBN 2)
Mike “Pekto” Nacua, Maey Bautista, Betong Sumaya (Day Off/GMA News TV)
Brian Wilson, Daniel Marsh, Henry Edwards, Michael McDonnell, Charlie Sutcliffe (Juan Direction/TV 5)

BEST GAME SHOW
Celebrity Bluff (GMA-7)
Picture Picture (GMA-7)
Show Up (PTV 4) 


BEST GAME SHOW HOST
Ryan Agoncillo (Picture Picture/ GMA-7)
Eugene Domingo (Celebrity Bluff/GMA-7)
Luis Manzano (Deal Or No Deal/ ABS-CBN 2)
Aga Muhlach (Let’s Ask Pilipinas/ TV 5)
Roderick Paulate & Amy Perez (The Singing Bee/ ABS-CBN 2)
Judy Ann Santos (Bet On Your Baby/ ABS-CBN 2)
Vic Sotto (Who Wants To Be a Millionaire/ TV 5)

BEST TALENT SEARCH PROGRAM
Anak Ko ‘Yan (GMA-7)
ASOP (UNTV 37)
Celebrity Dance Battle (TV5)
Promil Pre-School I-Shine Talent Camp (ABS-CBN 2)

BEST TALENT SEARCH PROGRAM HOST
Toni and Alex Gonzaga, Robi Domingo (The Voice of the Philippines/ ABS-CBN 2)
Lucy Torres Gomez (Celebrity Dance Battle/ TV 5)
Luis Manzano & Alex Gonzaga (The Voice Kids/ ABS-CBN 2)
Jennylyn Mercado (Anak Ko ‘Yan/ GMA-7)
Richard Reynoso and Toni Rose Gayda (ASOP UNTV 37)
Dimples Romana, Xian Lim &Matteo Guidicelli (Promil Pre-School I-Shine Talent Camp/ ABS-CBN 2)

BEST YOUTH ORIENTED PROGRAM
Luv U (ABS-CBN 2)
Tribe (Net 25)
YMI (GMA News TV)

BEST EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
AHA (GMA-7)
Astig (TV 5)
Born Impact (GMA-7)
Born To Be Wild (GMA-7)
Kusina Master (GMA-7)
Matanglawin (ABS-CBN 2)
Sarap with Family (GMA News TV)

BEST EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM HOST
Kim Atienza (Matanglawin/ ABS-CBN 2)
Drew Arellano, Boobay ( AHA / GMA-7)
Paolo Bediones (Astig/TV 5)
Chef Boy Logro (Kusina Master/GMA-7)
Dr. Ferdie Recio & Dr. Nielson Donato (Born To Be Wild/ GMA-7)
Bong Revilla (Kap’s Amazing Stories/ GMA-7)
Chris Tiu, Moymoy Palaboy (I-Bilib/ GMA-7)

BEST CELEBRITY TALK SHOW
Aquino and Abunda Tonight (ABS-CBN 2)
Gandang Gabi Vice (ABS-CBN 2)
Moments (Net 25)
Powerhouse (GMA News TV)
Spoon (Net 25)
Tapatan ni Tunying (ABS-CBN 2)
The Ryzza Mae Show (GMA-7)

BEST CELEBRITY TALK SHOW HOST
Boy Abunda & Kris Aquino (Aquino & Abunda Tonight/ ABS-CBN 2)
Kara David (Powerhouse/ GMA News TV)
Janice de Belen (Spoon/ Net 25)
Ryzza Mae Dizon (The Ryzza Mae Show/ GMA-7)
Vice Ganda (Gandang Gabi Vice/ ABS-CBN 2)
Gladys Reyes (Moments/ Net 25)
Anthony Taberna (Tapatan ni Tunying/ ABS-CBN 2)

BEST DOCUMENTARY PROGRAM
Brigada (GMA News TV)
Front Row (GMA News TV)
Kaya (TV 5)
I-Witness (GMA-7)
InvestigativeDocumentaries ( GMA News TV)
Reel Time (GMA News TV)
Reporter’s Notebook (GMA-7)

BEST DOCUMENTARY PROGRAM HOST
Sandra Aguinaldo, Kara David, Howie Severino, Jay Taruc (I-Witness/ GMA-7)
Atom Araullo (Hiwaga/ ABS-CBN 2)
Malou Mangahas (Investigative Documentaries/ GMA News TV)
Maki Pulido, Jiggy Manicad (Reporter’s Notebook/ GMA-7)
Rhea Santos (Tunay Na Buhay/ GMA-7)
Jessica Soho (Brigada/ GMA News TV)
Jay Taruc (Motorcycle Diaries/ GMA News TV)

BEST DOCUMENTARY SPECIAL
Che-Che Lazaro Presents:Panahon (ABS-CBN 2)
Che-Che Lazaro Presents: Wika (ABS-CBN 2)
Imelda Marcos (GMA News TV)
Klima ng Pagbabago (Net 25)
Lakwatsero sa Hokkaido (ABS-CBN 2)
Yolanda (ABS-CBN 2)

BEST MAGAZINE SHOW
Good News (GMA News TV)
I-Juander( GMA News TV)
Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (GMA-7)
Mutya ng Masa(ABS-CBN 2)
Pop Talk( GMA News TV)
Rated K(ABS-CBN 2)
Reaksyon (TV 5)

BEST MAGAZINE SHOW HOST
Doris Bigornia (Mutya ng Masa/ABS-CBN 2)
Susan Enriquez, Cesar Apolinario (I-Juander / GMA News TV)
Tonipet Gaba ( Pop Talk / GMA News TV)
Vicky Morales, Love Aňover & Bea Binene(Good News /GMA News TV)
Korina Sanchez (Rated K /ABS-CBN 2)
Jessica Soho(Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho /GMA-7)
Luchi Cruz –Valdes (Reaksyon / TV 5)

BEST NEWS PROGRAM
24 Oras (GMA-7)
Aksyon (TV 5)
Bandila (ABS-CBN 2)
Balitanghali (GMA News TV)
News @ 6 (PTV-4)
NewsLife (PTV-4)
State of the Nation (GMA News TV)
Saksi (GMA-7)
TV Patrol (ABS-CBN 2)

BEST MALE NEWSCASTER
Julius Babao (Bandila/ ABS-CBN 2)
Atty. Marc Castrodes (News @ 6/PTV-4)
Arnold Clavio(Saksi/ GMA-7)
Noli de Castro( TV Patrol/ ABS-CBN 2)
Mike Enriquez( 24 Oras/ GMA-7)
Ted Failon( TV Patrol/ ABS-CBN 2)
Jiggy Manicad( Quick Responsive Team/ GMA News TV)
Ralph Obina (News @ 6/PTV-4)
Robert Tan (NewsLife/PTV-4)
Erwin Tulfo(Aksyon/ TV 5)

BEST FEMALE NEWSCASTER
Pia Arcanghel (Balitanghali/ GMA News TV)
Isabella Cantu (NewsLife/PTV-4)
Karen Davila (Bandila/ ABS-CBN 2)
Ces Drilon (Bandila/ ABS-CBN 2)
Vicky Morales (Saksi/ GMA-7)
Kathy San Gabriel (News @ 6/PTV-4)
Korina Sanchez (TV Patrol/ ABS-CBN 2)
Jessica Soho (State of the Nation/ GMA News TV)
Mel Tiangco (24 Oras/ GMA-7)

BEST MORNING SHOW
Good Morning Boss (PTV 4)
Good Morning Club (TV 5)
Good Morning Kuya( UNTV 37)
Pambansang Almusal (Net 25)
Umagang Kay Ganda( ABS-CBN 2)
Unang Hirit( GMA-7)

BEST MORNING SHOW HOST
Susan Enriquez, Connie Sison, PiaArcanghel, Nathaniel Cruz, Lhar Santiago, Suzy Entrata, Ivan Mayrina, and Arnold Clavio(UnangHirit /GMA-7)
Dianne Medina, Audrey Goriecetta, Jules Guiang , Karla Paderna(Good Morning Boss/PTV 4)
Cheryl Cosim, Martin Andanar, Grace Lee, Shalala,
Christine Bersola- Babao(Good Morning Club/TV 5)
Daniel Razon (Good Morning Kuya/UNTV 37)
Anthony Taberna, Jing Castaneda, Zen Hernandez, Ariel Ureta, Atom Araullo,
Winnie Cordero (Umagang Kay Ganda / ABS-CBN 2)

BEST PUBLIC AFFAIRS PROGRAM
Adyenda (GMA News TV)
Bawala Ang Pasaway with Mareng Winnie (GMA News TV)
Face the People(TV 5)
Failon Ngayon( ABS-CBN 2)
Get It Straight (UNTV 37)
The Bottomline ( ABS-CBN 2)

BEST PUBLIC AFFAIRS PROGRAM HOST
Boy Abunda( The Bottomline/ ABS-CBN 2)
Ted Failon( Failon Ngayon/ ABS-CBN 2)
Jean Garcia and Jolina Magdangal ( Personalan/GMA News TV)
Edu Manzano, Christine Bersola Babao & Gelli de Belen(Face The People/TV 5)
Winnie Monsod( Bawal ang Pasaway with Mareng Winnie/GMA News TV)
Daniel Razon (Get It Straight/ UNTV 37)
Joel Villanueva (Adyenda/Gma News TV)

BEST SHOWBIZ ORIENTED TALK SHOW
Buzz Ng Bayan (ABS-CBN 2)
Showbiz Inside Report (ABS-CBN 2)
Showbiz Police (TV 5)
Startalk (GMA-7)
The Buzz (ABS-CBN 2)

BEST MALE SHOWBIZ ORIENTED TALK SHOW HOST
Joey de Leon( Startalk/ GMA-7)
Ogie Diaz(Showbiz Inside Report/ ABS-CBN 2)
Butch Francisco( Startalk/ GMA-7)
Raymond Gutierrez(Showbiz Police/ TV 5)
Ricky Lo ( Startalk/ GMA-7)
Joey Marquez(Showbiz Inside Report/ ABS-CBN 2)
Jose Javier Reyes(Showbiz Police/ TV 5)

BEST FEMALE SHOWBIZ ORIENTED TALK SHOW HOST
Kris Aquino(The Buzz/ ABS-CBN 2)
Janice de Belen( Buzz Ng Bayan/ ABS-CBN 2)
Heart Evangelista( Startalk/ GMA-7)
Cristy Fermin(Showbiz Police/ TV 5)
Toni Gonzaga (The Buzz/ ABS-CBN 2)
Lolit Solis ( Startalk/ GMA-7)
Carmina Villarroel( Buzz Ng Bayan/ ABS-CBN 2)

BEST CHILDREN SHOW
KNC(Kawan Ng Cordero/UNTV 37)
Just for Kids (GMA News TV)
The Jollitown Kid Show(GMA-7)
Tropang Pochi(GMA-7)

BEST CHILDREN SHOW HOST
Eric Cabobos, Cid Capulong, Bency Vallo, Moonlight Alarcon, Kayla Manarang, Leanne Manalanzan, Angelica Tejana, Kim Enriquez, Cedie Isip –(KNC- Kawan ng Cordero/UNTV 37)
Cha-Cha Caňete( Just For Kids/ GMA News TV)
Miggs Cuaderno, Kyle Danielle Ocampo, Sabrina Man,Miggy Jimenez, Lianne Valentino,Isabel Frial, Nomer Limatog (Tropang Pochi/GMA-7)

BEST TRAVEL SHOW
Business Flight (GMA News TV)
Biyahero(NBN 4)
Byahe ni Drew (GMA News TV)
I Love Pinas(GMA News TV)
Landmarks (Net 25)
Pinoy Explorer (TV 5)

BEST TRAVEL SHOW HOST
Drew Arellano (Byahe ni Drew /GMA News TV)
Aga Muhlach (Pinoy Explorer /TV 5)
Carlo Lorenzo (I Love Pinas /GMA News TV)
Faye de Castro Umandal (Landmarks /Net 25)
Ms. MJ and The Starcades (Biyahero/NBN 4) 
Venus Raj, Cristina Decena( Business Flight/GMA News TV)

BEST LIFESTYLE SHOW
Bread and Butter( UNTV 37)
Convergence(Net 25)
Cook It Right( UNTV 37)
Gandang Ricky Reyes( GMA News TV)
Kris TV (ABS-CBN 2)
Tara Let’s Eat (GMA News TV)
Taste Buddies(GMA News TV)

BEST LIFESTYLE SHOW HOST
Kris Aquino (Kris TV/ABS-CBN 2)
Chef Rudy Baron(Cook It Right/ UNTV 37)
Tonipet Gaba (Tara Let’s Eat/ GMA News TV)
Solenn Heussaff, Isabelle Daza (Taste Buddies/ GMA News TV)
Kit Meily, Rodel Flordeliz, Arlene Razon (Bread & Butter/ UNTV 37)
Kyle Nofuente, Chris Wong, Nikki Veron ( Convergence/Net 25)
Ricky Reyes (Gandang Ricky Reyes/GMA News TV)

Mass a festive occasion as 100,000 pack in

By Allan Grill, Religious Affairs Writer
Balloons, banners, Solidarity posters and dancing girls greeted Pope Francis when he arrived at Canberra's National Exhibition Center for the Inaugural Mass of his Australian visit.
About 100,00 people packed the vast complex. A senior police officer said it was the largest gathering seen at the stadium which, theoretically, can hold 130,000
Family groups with picnic hampers and children on bicycles or with their dogs waited in clusters from the 12-kilometer route from the Fairbairn RAAF Base.
It was very Australian, and very relaxed. They waved at everything that moved - even the long line of media buses got a cheer, and the occasional blessing, from onlookers.
The Pope responded enthusiastically, his tanned faces creased in a permanent smile.
Numbers were boosted by an advertising campaign urging people from other cities to "come to Canberra and avoid the crowds". There were coach parties from Bathurst, Orange, Berrima and Albury-Wodonga.
Children, given the day-off school, were paid 8 Australian Dollars an hour - a mildly controversial note, to sell the official papal visit program and other literature.
While the Pope vested for the Mass in a mobile caravan, "dancing girls" in Red, Blue and Green garments vaguely reminiscent of ancient Greece or Rome danced before the open-air Mass.
Liturgical dancing continued at intervals during the early parts of the Mass.
Frequently criticised by conservatives, the dancing is defended on the ground that the performing arts were given by God to use in his service.
David "danced before the Lord", and St. Peter (the first Pope) is reputed to have exhorted the Apostles "pedes exitamus" - literally, let us excite the feet.
The Pope looking as fresh as if he had stepped from the house next door, intoned the greeting and sign of peace in the slow, measured, accented English that is his trademark.
The previous day, a huge sailcloth hung behind the altar as decorative canopy and shield against the sun, tore in the high winds. Flapping madly, it was considered dangerous and removed.
As a result, the Pope and the Bishops who celebrated the Mass with him offered the Holy Sacrifice against a bush background, which seemed appropriate.
The fine afternoon was an answer to many prayers.
Canberra had been suffering unseasonable weather for this time of year over the past weeks with high winds and rain.
There were some mishaps during the three-hour Mass. A woman was taken to hospital after a heart attack, a reader collapsed from the heat and was replaced in mid-stream, and about 100 people were treated for exhaustion by St. John Ambulance attendants. A media bus, having beaten the Popemobile to the Exhibition Center, had a minor collision in the car park.
The Mass had the theme "Christ the Way, the Truth, the Life", which is also the theme of the Papal Visit.
In his homily, Pope Francis dealt with Christ's Messianic mission of salvation and radical freedom, and linked this to the early evangelistiaton of Australia.
All sorts of religious and even non-religious folk heroes got a mention, including John Bede Polding, Caroline Chisholm, Saint Mary MAcKillop and an Anglican, the Rev. Richard Johnson.
They asked: "How can we know the way?" And it is precisely in answer to this question that Jesus expresses the full meaning of his messianic role: "I am the way, and the truth, and the life".
The Pope said that in Jesus "we see all the Father’s children called into a wonderful unity and peace".
Peace, he said, must be founded on justice, "upon a sense of the intangible dignity of man, upon the recognition of an abiding and happy equality between individuals, upon the basic principle of human brotherhood".
"Peace can develop only where the requirements of universal justice are fulfilled.
Look, dear people of Australia, and behold this vast continent of yours! It is your home! The place of your joys and your pains, your endeavours and your hopes! And for all of you, Australians, the Way to the Father’s house passes through this land.
"Jesus Christ is the Way! And he is your Truth and your Life! "Jesus Christ... yesterday, today and forever!". Amen."
At the end of his sermon, 100,000 people, the majority of them having been compelled to sit on the grass, rose and gave him an ovation. It was experience this onlooker will never forget.

Why China’s eyeing of defunct American-Indonesian website sets off Southeast Asia

• Richard Heydarian writes that China’s interest in giant Subic Bay shipyard, a former US naval base, triggers anxiety over Beijing’s growing influence
• At its peak, the world’s largest social networking had employed as many as 100,000 Filipinos

Since Benigno Aquino III’s ascent to presidency, Philippine-China relations have undergone a strategic renaissance.

The Philippine president has assiduously downplayed South China Sea disputes in favour of warmer economic ties with China, an Asian juggernaut. Meanwhile, he has consciously downgraded the Philippines’ strategic ties with Western powers.

The prospective entry of state-affiliated Chinese companies into Philippine strategic sectors and locations, however, has sparked a backlash among the defence establishment, mainstream political elite and the broader public.

The most prominent manifestation of this trend is the nationwide uproar over China’s potential purchase of a large-scale office in Pasig.

Two Chinese companies have expressed interest in taking over the operation of defunct E-commerce and social networking site Multiply.

Multiply declared bankruptcy on June 9 after failing to service up to US$5 billion in accumulated debt. It sought the Philippine government’s help in finding new investors to protect the jobs of the 3,000 employees who still work at the site, on the island of Luzon in the Philippines, about 100km northwest of Manila Bay.

At one point, the Multiply, the world’s largest social networking site, had employed as many as 100,000 Filipinos.

Have fun, see ‘Gangster Lolo’

“Gangster Lolo” is one movie you must not miss because it is guaranteed to keep you laughing from beginning to end. It also offers a moral lesson: Crime does not pay.

During its premiere presentation at SM City North Edsa recently, its director, William Mayo, arrived in a wheelchair. He was undergoing treatment at the time but it only shows how passionate he is with his work.

The movie stars Leo Martinez, Rez Cortez, Soxie Topacio, Pen Medina as the Gangster Lolo(s).

Having been recently freed from years of incarceration, the group is now trying to eke a better life for themselves, only that they’re having a hard time finding a job. Apparently, nobody wants to take a chance on them being ex-convicts. Their only hope is a treasure map, which they got from one of their co-inmates.

“Gangster Lolo” is fast-paced and quite fun. Watching Leo and Soxie do their thing is such a treat. Surprisingly, Rez and Pen, both known as serious actors specializing in drama and action, both did well as comedians.

• • •

PAPA JACK RECEIVES ‘KA-PADI’S AWARD’

John Gemperle, better known as Papa Jack of 90.7 Love Radio, received a birthday surprise recently, becoming the first male recipient of the “Ka-Padi’s Award.”

The award was given in recognition of Papa Jack’s efforts to provide entertainment to Padi’s Point “kabarkadas.”

Papa Jack, who was also awarded as the Male DJ of the Year at the Yahoo! OMG! Awards, has been doing gigs in different branches of the bar and resto chain for the past five years.

His schedule this month includes stops at Padi’s Point Las Piñas on Nov. 2; San Lazaro, Nov. 8; Tomas Morato, Nov. 9; Metro East, Nov. 15; Remedios, Nov. 16; South Station, Nov. 22; Fairview, Nov. 23; Biñan, Nov. 29 and Novaliches, Nov. 30.

• • •

TIDBITS: Happy b-day greetings today, Nov. 1, go to actress Sharmaine Arnaiz, Dr. Ronaldo Asuncion, Fiscal Dick Escueta, fashion designer Jun Pena, lawyers Crisanto Saruca and Norberto Capistrano, Col. Jimmy A. Tiu, Mrs. Mina N. Reyes, Charmae Moldez, Marifil Nina Girado, Gladys Maningding-Armas, Lina Misa, Cora Perez, singer Nina, Winnie Cordero of “Umagang Kay Ganda,” and awarded actor Coco Martin… Happy wedding anniversary to Augusto and Pilarica Abaya… Nov. 2: former Rep. Lynnette A. Punzalan, former actress and magazine editor Jenny Syquia, singers Jaime Blanch and Mell Salas, Engr. Remigio P. Biazon, Anthony Ramos, Alexander Asuit of PCSO PR Dept, Yolanda Ibuna Fajardo, Frederick R. Sibug, Mark F. Gavino, Norshie Sali, Jenny Trinidad Fernandez, Llorick Vincent Leguarda Tompong, Ezekiel Joshua Dimaguila and multi-awarded broadcast journalist Arnold Clavio of GMA-7’s “Unang Hirit”…Nov. 3: Batangas Governor Villma Santos-Recto, Ms. Mabel Abano, US-based singer Amapola, Evelina Ramos-Cavett, Atoy Perez, Eric S. Tagle, Pamela Joyce J. Escobedo, Isaac Kim Palisoc, Josefina Javellana, Babylyn Velasco, Atoy Perez, Xandra Nikolai N. Vicencio, and Maria Manna T. Merk…Belated b-day greetings to Vince Reyes of EM IMC Form (Sept. 22) and Estrella Cuadrasal (Oct. 24)…

Tell the world of His Love

“TELL THE WORLD OF HIS LOVE”

World Youth Day 1995 Theme Song

Words and Music by: Trina Belamide

Lead Vocals by: Raquel Mangaliag and Jeff Arcilla

Back-up Vocals: Dada de Pano, Niser de Pano, Trina Belamide, Andrei Jose, Wilson Santos, Ritchie Ilustre

Vocal Arrangement: Trina Belamide

Musical Arrangement: N. Arnel de Pano

Producer: Trina Belamide

Carelle Mangaliag:

For God so loved the world He gave us Him only Son

Jesus Christ our Savior, His most precious one

Jeff Arcilla:

He has sent us His message of love and sends those who hear

To bring the message to everyone in a voice loud and clear

Carelle Mangaliag and Jeff Arcilla:

Let us tell the world of his love, the greatest love the world has known

Search the world for those who have walked astray and lead them home

Fill the world's darkest corners with His light from up above

Walk every step, Every mile, Every road

And tell the world, Tell the world of His love

Carelle Mangaliag and Jeff Arcilla:

For God so loved the world he gave us Him only Son, Jesus Christ our Savior, His Most Precious One

Dada de Pano, Niser de Pano, Trina Belamide:

He has sent us His message of love and sends those who hear

Andrei Jose, Wilson Santos, Ritchie Ilustre:

To bring the message to everyone in a voice loud and clear

Duet:

Let us tell the world of His love the greatest love the world has known

Search the world for those who have walked astray and lead them home (ahh...)

Fill the world's darkest corners with His light from up above

Walk every step, Every mile, Every road

And tell the world, tell the world of His love

Ahh... Ahh... Ahh...Ahh...Ahh...

Let us tell the world of His love (Tell the world of His love)

The greatest love the world has known

Search the world for those who have walked

Astray and lead them home (lead them home)

Fill the world's darkest corners

With His light from up above

Walk every step, Every mile, Every road

And tell the world, Tell the world of His love

Let us tell the world of His love

The greatest love the world has known

Walk every step, Every mile, Every road

And tell the world, Tell the world of His love

Tell the world, (Tell the world of His love)

tell the world, (Tell the world of His love)

Tell the world of His love

List of con-celebrants for the Mass (South America, Europe and Africa)

Chile and Brazil will follow-up for the concelebrated Holy Mass by the Pope

• Santiago, Santiago Province, Santiago Metropolitan Region, Chile Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal  Ezzati Andrello
• Santiago, Santiago Province, Santiago Metropolitan Region, Chile Archbishop-Emeritus Francisco Javier Cardinal Errázuriz Ossa
• Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Archbishop-Emeritus Eusébio Cardinal Scheid
• Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Archbishop Orani João Tempesta
• São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil Archbishop-Emeritus Cláudio Cardinal Hummes
• São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil Archbishop Mauro Cardinal Piacenza
• Aparecida, Sao Paulo, Brazil Archbishop Raymundo Cardinal Damasceno Assis

source: www.catholic-hierarchy.org/country/

About Pope John Paul 2

Karol Józef Wojtyła, known as John Paul II since his October 1978 election to the papacy, was born in the Polish town of Wadowice, a small city 50 kilometers from Krakow, on May 18, 1920. He was the youngest of three children born to Karol Wojtyła and Emilia Kaczorowska. His mother died in 1929. His eldest brother Edmund, a doctor, died in 1932 and his father, a non-commissioned army officer died in 1941. A sister, Olga, had died before he was born.
He was baptized on June 20, 1920 in the parish church of Wadowice by Fr. Franciszek Zak, made his First Holy Communion at age 9 and was confirmed at 18. Upon graduation from Marcin Wadowice high school in Wadowice, he enrolled in Krakow's Jagiellonian University in 1938 and in a school for drama.
The Nazi occupation forces closed the university in 1939 and young Karol had to work in a quarry (1940-1944) and then in the Solvay chemical factory to earn his living and to avoid being deported to Germany.
In 1942, aware of his call to the priesthood, he began courses in the clandestine seminary of Krakow, run by Cardinal Adam Stefan Sapieha, archbishop of Krakow. At the same time, Karol Wojtyła was one of the pioneers of the "Rhapsodic Theatre," also clandestine.
After the Second World War, he continued his studies in the major seminary of Krakow, once it had re-opened, and in the faculty of theology of the Jagiellonian University. He was ordained to the priesthood by Archbishop Sapieha in Krakow on November 1, 1946.
Shortly afterwards, Cardinal Sapieha sent him to Rome where he worked under the guidance of the French Dominican, Garrigou-Lagrange. He finished his doctorate in theology in 1948 with a thesis on the subject of faith in the works of St. John of the Cross (Doctrina de fide apud Sanctum Ioannem a Cruce). At that time, during his vacations, he exercised his pastoral ministry among the Polish immigrants of France, Belgium and Holland.
In 1948 he returned to Poland and was vicar of various parishes in Krakow as well as chaplain to university students. This period lasted until 1951 when he again took up his studies in philosophy and theology. In 1953 he defended a thesis on "evaluation of the possibility of founding a Catholic ethic on the ethical system of Max Scheler" at Lublin Catholic University. Later he became professor of moral theology and social ethics in the major seminary of Krakow and in the Faculty of Theology of Lublin.
On July 4, 1958, he was appointed titular bishop of Ombi and auxiliary of Krakow by Pope Pius XII, and was consecrated September 28, 1958, in Wawel Cathedral, Krakow, by Archbishop Eugeniusz Baziak.
On January 13, 1964, he was appointed archbishop of Krakow by Pope Paul VI, who made him a cardinal June 26, 1967 with the title of S. Cesareo in Palatio of the order of deacons, later elevated pro illa vice to the order of priests.
Besides taking part in Vatican Council II (1962-1965) where he made an important contribution to drafting the Constitution Gaudium et spes, Cardinal Wojtyła participated in all the assemblies of the Synod of Bishops.
The Cardinals elected him Pope at the Conclave of 16 October 1978, and he took the name of John Paul II. On 22 October, the Lord's Day, he solemnly inaugurated his Petrine ministry as the 263rd successor to the Apostle. His pontificate, one of the longest in the history of the Church, lasted nearly 27 years.
Driven by his pastoral solicitude for all Churches and by a sense of openness and charity to the entire human race, John Paul II exercised the Petrine ministry with a tireless missionary spirit, dedicating it all his energy. He made 104 pastoral visits outside Italy and 146 within Italy. As bishop of Rome he visited 317 of the city's 333 parishes.
He had more meetings than any of his predecessors with the People of God and the leaders of Nations. More than 17,600,000 pilgrims participated in the General Audiences held on Wednesdays (more than 1160), not counting other special audiences and religious ceremonies [more than 8 million pilgrims during the Great Jubilee of the Year 2000 alone], and the millions of faithful he met during pastoral visits in Italy and throughout the world. We must also remember the numerous government personalities he encountered during 38 official visits, 738 audiences and meetings held with Heads of State, and 246 audiences and meetings with Prime Ministers.
His love for young people brought him to establish the World Youth Days. The 19 WYDs celebrated during his pontificate brought together millions of young people from all over the world. At the same time his care for the family was expressed in the World Meetings of Families, which he initiated in 1994.
John Paul II successfully encouraged dialogue with the Jews and with the representatives of other religions, whom he several times invited to prayer meetings for peace, especially in Assisi.
Under his guidance the Church prepared herself for the third millennium and celebrated the Great Jubilee of the year 2000 in accordance with the instructions given in the Apostolic Letter Tertio Millennio adveniente. The Church then faced the new epoch, receiving his instructions in the Apostolic Letter Novo Millennio ineunte, in which he indicated to the faithful their future path.
With the Year of the Redemption, the Marian Year and the Year of the Eucharist, he promoted the spiritual renewal of the Church.
He gave an extraordinary impetus to Canonizations and Beatifications, focusing on countless examples of holiness as an incentive for the people of our time. He celebrated 147 beatification ceremonies during which he proclaimed 1,338 Blesseds; and 51 canonizations for a total of 482 saints. He made Thérèse of the Child Jesus a Doctor of the Church.
He considerably expanded the College of Cardinals, creating 231 Cardinals (plus one in pectore) in 9 consistories. He also called six full meetings of the College of Cardinals.
He organized 15 Assemblies of the Synod of Bishops - six Ordinary General Assemblies (1980, 1983, 1987, 1990, 1994 and 2001), one Extraordinary General Assembly (1985) and eight Special Assemblies (1980,1991, 1994, 1995, 1997, 1998 (2) and 1999).
His most important Documents include 14 Encyclicals, 15 Apostolic Exhortations, 11 Apostolic Constitutions, 45 Apostolic Letters.
He promulgated the Catechism of the Catholic Church in the light of Tradition as authoritatively interpreted by the Second Vatican Council. He also reformed the Eastern and Western Codes of Canon Law, created new Institutions and reorganized the Roman Curia.
As a private Doctor he also published five books of his own: "Crossing the Threshold of Hope" (October 1994), "Gift and Mystery, on the fiftieth anniversary of my ordination as priest" (November 1, 1996), "Roman Triptych" poetic meditations (March 2003), "Arise, Let us Be Going" (May 2004) and "Memory and Identity" (February 2005).
In the light of Christ risen from the dead, on 2nd April, 2005, at 9.37 p.m., while Saturday was drawing to a close and the Lord's Day was already beginning, the Octave of Easter and Divine Mercy Sunday, the Church's beloved Pastor, John Paul II, departed this world for the Father.
From that evening until April 8, date of the funeral of the late Pontiff, more than three million pilgrims came to Rome to pay homage to the mortal remains of the Pope. Some of them queued up to 24 hours to enter St. Peter's Basilica.
On April 28, the Holy Father Benedict XVI announced that the normal five-year waiting period before beginning the cause of beatification and canonization would be waived for John Paul II. The cause was officially opened by Cardinal Camillo Ruini, vicar general for the diocese of Rome, on June 28 2005.
He was beatified on May 1, 2011 by Pope Benedict XVI.

Pakistani nabbed with explosives.

Government intelligence agents have arrested a Pakistani suspected of being on a mission to assassinate Pope Francis or to disrupt his state visit to the Philippines starting tomorrow, informed sources said yesterday. The sources said the suspect, named Said Hamid, 45, arrived again in Manila last September 6.

Festive celebration at the Luneta: JIL Church at 36

A little rain did not dampen the spirit of the JIL people, but added bursts of color from the crowd as umbrellas went up, thus completing the scene of festive celebration for the Jesus Is Lord Church Worldwide’s 36th Anniversary. Songs of praise is now filling the Quirino Grandstand in Luneta as thousands of people are lifting their voices to the Lord.


Excited “Happy Aniv!” greetings echoed here and there from people who flocked the event venue as they celebrate with the theme, “Pursue peace and be holy without which no one can see God.” Hebrews 12:14.


An indescribable feeling of joy swept the crowd as warm greetings and more updates from CYN International Director, Ptr. Jovi Villanueva-Binalla and TESDA Director-General, Sec. Joel Villanueva resounded from the stage. Truly, the event is shaping up to make history once more in anticipation of God’s signs, wonders and miracles for His glorious church. Come and join us in the celebration here in Luneta!

PNoy leads prayer for peace and righteousness at JIL 36th anniversary rites

Amidst the numerous crises besetting the country, President Benigno Aquino III led the Jesus is Lord (JIL) Church faithful in fervent prayer on Friday, Oct. 24, for true and lasting peace in the Philippines springing from a genuine love for God and the pursuit of righteousness.


As the guest of honor of the JIL’s 36th anniversary rites held at the Rizal Park, President Aquino, on behalf of the entire nation, prayed in Filipino and pleaded for divine intervention for the things threatening the country’s security and stability.


“Nguni’t bantad sa inyo, aming Panginoong Hesus, ang mga kasamaang pilit na numananakaw ng kapayapaang ito – gutom , kahirapan at iba’t ibang uri ng karamdaman; maging ang dibisyon sa lipunan, pagnanakaw, pagpatay, pagtutunggali sa kapangyarihan at iba’t ibang kasaamang dulot ng kasakiman,” the President said.


“…Biyayaan po ninyo ng tunay na kapayapaan ang aming bayan. Tunay na kapayapaang nagmumula sa inyong dakilang pag-ibig – na nagbubuklod, na kayang pagaanin ang pasanin ng aming bansa, kayang magbigay ng pag-asa sa aming bayan, at kayang palakasin ang aming bisig,” he petitioned.


He acknowledged that without the Almighty’s presence in the situation “ay hindi namin makakamit ang tunay na kapayapaan. Kapayapaang matagal na po naming ipinaglalabang makamit ng aming bayan.”


Following President Aquino’s prayer, Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva, JIL Spiritual Director, thanked the Chief Executive and noted that “we are exceedingly blessed for no less than our President is here to pray for our nation.


“This reminds us of biblical leaders like King David and King Solomon and US presidents like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln who interceded on behalf of their country and people.”


In keeping with the scriptural command for believers to pray for their government leaders, Bro. Eddie asked the JIL people at the Quirino Grandstand to extend their hands in blessing to the President.


The JIL leader asked for God to give the President wisdom and good health in leading the country and blessing in all areas, including his lovelife, drawing an amused smile from Aquino.





Sealing the prayers was a prophetic gesture, with Pastor Bong Gonzales, JIL International Operations head for North America Hemisphere, leading 35 others in releasing 36 doves – one for every year of the JIL’s existence – into the air.


“The doves are not only a sign of peace but symbols of the Holy Spirit that our prayer for peace and righteousness will come to pass,” Gonzales said.

Pope gets grand welcome.

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

Looking less fit than his previous pastoral and state visit of deceased Pope John Paul II in the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Australia and Sri Lanka 19 years, 11 months and 30 days ago on January 12 to 21, 1995.

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

Pope Francis called on the people to reflect the theme of the anniversary celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide: “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord: looking carefully lest anyone fall short of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up cause trouble, and by this many become defiled; lest there be any fornicator or profane person like Esau, who for one morsel of food sold his birthright. For you know that afterward, when he wanted to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for repentance, though he sought it diligently with tears. For you have not come to the mountain that may be touched and that burned with fire, and to blackness and darkness and tempest, and the sound of a trumpet and the voice of words, so that those who heard it begged that the word should not be spoken to them anymore. (For they could not endure what was commanded: “And if so much as a beast touches the mountain, it shall be stoned or shot with an arrow.” And so terrifying was the sight that Moses said, “I am exceedingly afraid and trembling.”) But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels, to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are registered in heaven, to God the Judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect, to Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling that speaks better things than that of Abel. See that you do not refuse Him who speaks. For if they did not escape who refused Him who spoke on earth, much moreshall we not escape if we turn away from Him who speaks from heaven,  whose voice then shook the earth; but now He has promised, saying, “Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but also heaven.” Now this, “Yet once more,” indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain. Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming fire.”

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

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

Security measures went awry as people took the opportunity to move near the pope and receive the blessing. Finally boarding the specially build vehicle an hour after he arrived, the Pope took a Moment to raise his hands before members of the joint Vatican and Presidential Security Group guards closed the door.

Until he arrived at the Papal Nunciature 50 minutes later, the aging pontiff continued to wave to the throngs who braved the heat to greet him along Roxas Boulevard, Quirino Avenue and Taft Avenue.

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

Travelling along the designated route from the Old Manila International Airport in Pasay City to the Nunciature in Taft Avenue, Manila the 76-year-old Pope was met each time with huge crowds who circled his specially made, bullet-proof “popemobile”. So thick were the crowds that what would have been a 15-minute trip stretched to 50 minutes. In some areas, the crowd may have 30 to 40 deep, barely allowing the Papal convoy passage.

On his arrival, the Pope addressed the youth and invited them “…to [s]ee the world around you with the eyes of Jesus himself! The Gospel says that when he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dear President Aquino, Dear People of the Philippines,

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

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

3. The thought of celebrating the annual founding anniversary of the Evangelical Charismatic Christian renewal religious group “Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide”, founded by activist and Evangelical Born Again Christian religious preacher Bishop Bro. Eddie Villanueva, in the Philippines, in Asia, has gladdened me and given me encouragement. The Spirit of God has led thousands of young men and women here and they are now filling the streets of Manila with their youthful joy and Christian witness. A large group of them are right here. I greet each one of you: I warmly embrace every person here, all the people of the Philippines, and all those who have come from other countries and continents. At Rio, Brazil, during the 29th World Youth Day outside Rome, we meditated on the “new life” which comes from Jesus Christ: “Go and Make Disciples of All Nations” (Matthew 28:19). Now, here in Manila, we gather to hear him say: “Pursue Peace and Be Holy, Without Which No One Can See God” (Hebrews 12:14). During these days we shall reflect on and pray about what these words mean for each one of you, for the people of the end of the Twentieth Century 2015, the people of the Third Christian Millennium 2016.

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

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

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

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

God bless the Philippines! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!

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

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

“Tough job ahead for GMA-7”

(Scenes by Norma Japitana)

As the war of the two channels heats up even the coverage of the Pope’s visit becomes a contention. “Mel and Jay”, a popular radio and television show on Channel 2 practically lambasted the people behind the granting of the exclusive coverage of the Papal Visit to Channel 7 at a recent program.

Some excerpts from that show:

Jay Sonza: Can you now franchise a television coverage? A live television news coverage?

Mel Tiangco: Ang aming prinsipyo ay simple lang. We are a diversified multi-media company at tungkulin namin sa bayan na ihatid ang mga pangyayari at mga balita. 'Yan lamang naman ko ang prinsipyo ng aming kumpanya.

Jay Sonza: Nakalimutan siguro ang Simbahang Katoliko na Protesante at ang Kompanya ng Teleponong Pangmalayuan ng Pilipinas ang may-ari ng GMA.

(ABS-CBN Background Theme Music)

(Intro ng 1987 ABS-CBN instrumental jingle, with the six-note "A-B-S-C-B-N" signature)

VO: ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation... DZMM Sais Trenta, ang Himpilan ng Malayang Mamamayan!

(Ernie Angeles, himself an ABS-CBN veteran, voiced the original S/ID, but was later re-recorded by Peter "Rabbit/Ka Peter" Musngi himself)

Jay Sonza: You are listening to a catholic broadcast network ABS-CBN. Ang Katolikong himpilan ng ABS-CBN ay kasapi sa KBP... Kapisanan ng mga Broadkaster sa Pilipinas... Ang tumpak na oras para sa kapakanan ng lahat na Kristyano at Muslim dito sa Bansa, ay ganap ng makalipas ang alas nuebe... Patuloy kayong nakikinig sa Katolikong palatuntunan ng “Mel and Jay”.

(Commercial gap)

Jay Sonza: Ito po ang Mel and Jay... Ang Pambansang Broadcast sa Radyo... Kasama po ang inyong lingkod Mel Tiangco... Lumaki sa mga madre sa Saint Theresa's isang Katoliko sarado. At ang inyong lingkod Jay Sonza, isang dating seminarian...

Selected members of media listened to this portion. Of course the wit of the Pinoys one came out with something like: "Cardinal Tagle may be living in the house of Sin, while others living…"

The Catholic Bishops Conference of The Philippines has appointed GMA-7 as the official television carrier for the event. The coverage will be live. (No commercials. Can you imagine asking the Pope to pause for commercial breaks! Other television networks may apply for limited rights such as hook-ups. There will be a Broadcast Center to facilitate all other local and international media organizations and their requirements. These events were the first to be produced and broadcast entirely in 16:9 1920 pixels × 1080 lines (2.1 megapixels) temporal resolution of 60 interlaced fields per second digital high-definition)

When GMA won the bid they also carry the responsibility of providing full coverage of the events. This will mean huge investments in equipment, man-hours and other resources. Also, a substantial portion of the revenues that they will be able to raise from sponsors of their coverage, will help pay for the many expenses expected by CBCP as hosts of the two significant events. GMA will put into effect the most comprehensive live coverage of the Papal Visit and Jesus is Lord Church Anniversary Festival 2014 activities with more than 40 hours of live broadcast and specials.

GMA has assembled an army of over 450 production and news specialists together with over 10 remote broadcast teams to simultaneously cover all the sites of the Pope's appearance.

GMA broadcasts live coverages pre-empting regular programming beginning October 23 with the Pontiff's arrival at 2:00 p.m. On October 24, the live coverage of his courtesy visit to Malacanang airs at 9:00 A.M. and the Pope's special message airs at 5 p.m.

On day three of the Papal visit (October 25), the live coverage of the Quadricentennial Mass airs at 8:00 A.M. and the Sapphire Jubilee of Radio Veritas Asia and the 36th Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA) at 4:00 P.M. Televiewers will see the Pope and the participants together at the Youth Vigil.

On October 26, the live coverage of the Anniversary Celebration of Jesus is Lord Church Worldwide airs at 8:00 a.m. A statement, prepared by the leaders of the International Youth Forum and the foreign delegates to the 65th Session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for the Western Pacific region, International Information Technology-Business Process Management Summit and local delegates to the 40^th Philippine Business Conference and Expo 2014, will be presented during the Holy Mass.

Finally, on October 27, televiewers will see Pope Francis’ departure for Papua New Guinea at 7:00 P.M. The Marathon Papal coverages will be anchored by broadcast journalists Malou Mangahas and Cheche Lazaro, plus the pool of GMA Radio and Television reporters stationed at various points all over Manila.

40th PBC urges consistent and harmonized investment policies

Businessmen yesterday urged government to harmonize inconsistent investment policies and to honor contracts even from previous administrations to keep and attract more investors in the country.

Alfredo Yao, President of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, told reporters after his welcome address at yesterday’s opening of the 40th Philippine Business Conference (PBC) at the Manila Hotel.

Yao said the harmonization of investment policies will form part of the 40th PBC Resolutions to be submitted to President Aquino at the closing on Friday of the three-day PBC, the country’s largest annual business gathering organized by the PCCI.

“The PBC never lets go of its advocacies for weeding out inconveniencies and inconsistencies in government rules that turn off foreign direct investors, “Yao said in his welcome address.

“Regardless of what administration, whether that is GMA (former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo) or others we should honor contracts,” Yao later told reporters.

One of the contracts the Aquino administration refused to honor is the SM Land Inc. contract for the development of a Fort Bonifacio property that is a now a subject of a court battle because the current Bases Conversion Development Authority refused to honor the contract forged during the previous BCDA administration.

“Once they signed the contract they have to honor that otherwise we will be ruined. If we made mistakes then we have to make amends so we could stop going back and forth,” Yao said.

Yao also noted of some inconsistencies in policies between the local government units and the national government.

For instance, he said, the national government has an investment law, but the local government units are doing another thing making it difficult for national investment promotion agencies like the Board of Investments to justify their campaigns before foreign investors.

“They have to harmonize these policies. There are LGUs that are not friendly to investors,” he said.

“If they applied and are approved then give what is due them. But if that investor violates the contract then don’t proceed and a cancellation of the contract is justifiable,” he added.

“Yao also lamented unsynchronized policies of agencies in the treatment of tax incentives.

“He said that investors are asked to go the Board of Investments and are given tax perks, but the Department of Finance is opposed to such granting of tax incentive.

“”If there is a loophole, we have to plug that,” he said.

To avoid unnecessary inconsistencies, Yao has asked government to thoroughly study any incentive scheme and investment policies before their implementation

TELL THE WORLD OF HIS LOVE (World Youth Day 1995 Theme Song)

“TELL THE WORLD OF HIS LOVE”
World Youth Day 1995 Theme Song
Words and Music by: Trina Belamide
Lead Vocals by: Carelle Mangaliag and Jeff Arcilla
Back-up Vocals: Dada de Pano, Niser de Pano, Trina Belamide, Andrei Jose, Wilson Santos, Ritchie Ilustre
Vocal Arrangement: Trina Belamide
Musical Arrangement: N. Arnel de Pano
Producer: Trina Belamide

Carelle Mangaliag:
For God so loved the world
He gave us Him only Son
Jesus Christ our Savior
His most precious one

Jeff Arcilla:
He has sent us His message of love
And sends those who hear
To bring the message to everyone
In a voice loud and clear

Duet:
Let us tell the world of His love
The greatest love the world has known
Search the world for those who have walked
Astray and lead them home
Fill the world's darkest corners
With His light from up above
Walk every step, Every mile, Every road
And tell the world, Tell the world of His love

Duet:
For God so loved the world
He gave us Him only Son
Jesus Christ our Savior
His Most Precious One

He has sent us His message of love
And sends those who hear
To bring the message to everyone
In a voice loud and clear

Let us tell the world of His love
The greatest love the world has known
Search the world for those who have walked
Astray and lead them home
Fill the world's darkest corners
With His light from up above
Walk every step, Every mile, Every road
And tell the world, Tell the world of His love

Let us tell the world of His love
(Tell the world of His love)
The greatest love the world has known
Search the world for those who have walked
Astray and lead them home (lead them home)
Fill the world's darkest corners
With His light from up above
Walk every step, Every mile, Every road
And tell the world, Tell the world of His love
Let us tell the world of His love
The greatest love the world has known
Walk every step, Every mile, Every road
And tell the world, Tell the world of His love

Trina Belamide: Here at Last

The Country's leading producer of children's audio products, Ivory Music and Video now brings "Trina Belamide: Here at Last"

All songs sung by the Small World Children's Choir:

1. Here At Last
2. Pagka't Akin Ang Pag-ibig Mo
3. Big Brother
4. Nariyan Pa Rin
5. Only When I'm With You
6. I Can't Make You Stay
7. Minahal Mo Rin Ako
8. Somebody's Heart
9. Kilos Na
10. Tell The World of His Love (World Youth Day 1995 Theme Song)

To Have and To Hold
I
This very moment, right here and now
Begins the journey of my dreams
On to forever, hand in hand
With the one who matters most to me
I have tomorrow to look forward to
For God has given me you

CHORUS 1
To have and to hold
To cherish and honor
To love and call my very own
To share all I am with
Body, heart and soul
You are mine as I am yours
To have and to hold

II
Partner, companion, lover and friend
Keeper of all things I hold dear
I see you before me and my heart is filled with joy
For everything that has brought me here
And I have tomorrow to look forward to
For God has given me you

(chorus)
(short instrumental)
I have tomorrow to look forward to
For God has given me you

CHORUS 2
To have and to hold
To cherish and honor
To love and call my very own
To share all I am with
Body heart and soul
You are mine as I am yours
All my days, all my life
To have and to hold

Shine

There I was alone in the shadow
Couldn't find my way
Then you came in
And brought along the sunshine
Now you're here to stay

[Chorus:] You make me shine, shine
Like the stars in the heavens
Shine, shine
You keep me shinning through
Shine, shine
With the light that you give in, it's true
I'm shinning on, all because of you

So watch me go
A light shines within me
People ask me why
And I just smile & tell them you're the reason
I've cast the darkness aside

(Repeat Chorus)

(Coda) Like a ray of light
Coming through the night
Bright as the stars in the sky
See how I shine

(Repeat Chorus 2x until fade)

We Wish You a Merry Christmas (Ray Conniff album)

We Wish You A Merry Christmas is a 1962 album by Ray Conniff.

Track 1: Medley: Jolly Old St. Nicholas / The Little Drummer Boy

Jolly Old Saint Nicholas,

Lean your ear this way;

Don't you tell a single soul

What I'm going to say,

Christmas Eve is coming soon;

Now my dear old man,

Whisper what you'll bring to me;

Tell me if you can.

When the clock is striking twelve,

When I'm fast asleep,

Down the chimney broad and black

With your pack you'll creep;

All the stockings you will find

Hanging in a row;

Mine will be the shortest one;

You'll be sure to know.

Johnny wants a pair of skates;

Susy wants a sled;

Nellie wants a story book,

one she hasn't read

As for me, I hardly know

so I'll go to rest;

Choose for me, dear Santa Claus,

What you think is best.

Come they told me, pa rum pum pum pum

A new born King to see, pa rum pum pum pum

Our finest gifts we'll bring, pa rum pum pum pum

To lay before the King, pa rum pum pum pum

Rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum

So to honor Him, pa rum pum pum pum

When we come

Baby Jesus, pa rum pum pum pum

I am a poor boy too, pa rum pum pum pum

I have no gift to bring, pa rum pum pum pum

That's fit to give our King, pa rum pum pum pum

Rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum

Shall I play for You?, Pa rum pum pum

On my drum

Mary nodded, pa rum pum pum pum

The ox and lamb kept time, pa rum pum pum pum

I played my drum for Him, pa rum pum pum

I played my best for Him, pa rum pum pum pum

Rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum

Then He smiled at me, pa rum pum pum pum

Me and my drum

Mary nodded, pa rum pum pum pum

The ox and lamb kept time, pa rum pum pum pum

I played my drum for Him, pa rum pum pum

I played my best for Him, pa rum pum pum pum

Rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum

Then He smiled at me, pa rum pum pum pum

Me and my drum, me and my drum

Me and my drum, me and my drum

Me and my drum

Medley: O Holy Night / We Three Kings Of Orient Are / Deck The Halls With Boughs Of Holly

O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of our dear Saviour's birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining,
'Til He appear'd and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! O hear the angel voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born;
O night divine, O night, O night Divine.
Led by the light of Faith serenely beaming,
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.
So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming,
Here come the wise men from Orient land.
The King of Kings lay thus in lowly manger;
In all our trials born to be our friend.
He knows our need, our weakness is no stranger,
Behold your King! Before Him lowly bend!
Behold your King, Before Him lowly bend!
Truly He taught us to love one another;
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother;
And in His name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
Let all within us praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! O praise His Name forever,
His power and glory evermore proclaim.
His power and glory evermore proclaim.

We three kings of Orient are;
Bearing gifts we traverse afar,
Field and fountain, moor and mountain,
Following yonder star.

Refrain
O star of wonder, star of night,
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding,
Guide us to thy perfect light.

Born a King on Bethlehem’s plain
Gold I bring to crown Him again,
King forever, ceasing never,
Over us all to reign.

Refrain

Frankincense to offer have I;
Incense owns a Deity nigh;
Prayer and praising, voices raising,
Worshipping God on high.

Refrain

Myrrh is mine, its bitter perfume
Breathes a life of gathering gloom;
Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying,
Sealed in the stone cold tomb.

Refrain

Glorious now behold Him arise;
King and God and sacrifice;
Alleluia, Alleluia,
Sounds through the earth and skies.

Refrain

Deck the hall with boughs of holly,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
'Tis the season to be jolly,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
Don we now our gay apparel
Troll the ancient Christmas carol,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
See the blazing yule before us,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
Strike the harp and join the chorus.
Fa la la la la la la la la.
Follow me in merry measure,
While I tell of Christmas treasure,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
Fast away the old year passes,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
Hail the new, ye lads and lasses!
Fa la la la la la la la la.
Sing we joyous all together,
Heedless of the wind and weather,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
Oliphant's original words published in 1862 (which included the third round), were:-
Deck the hall with boughs of holly,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
'Tis the season to be jolly,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
Fill the meadcup, drain the barrel,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
Troul the ancient Christmas carol,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
See the flowing bowl before us,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
Strike the harp and join the chorus.
Fa la la la la la la la la.
Follow me in merry measure,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
While I sing of beauty's treasure,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
Fast away the old year passes,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
Hail the new, ye lads and lasses!
Fa la la la la la la la la.
Laughing, quaffing all together,
Fa la la la la la la la la.
Heedless of the wind and weather,
Fa la la la la la la la la.

Track 4: "Ring Christmas Bells"

Ring, Christmas bells,
merrily ring,
Tell all the world
Jesus is King.
Loudly proclaim,
With one accord,
The happy tale,
Welcome the Lord!
Ring, Christmas bells,
Sound far and near,
The birthday of Jesus is here.
Herald the news,
To old and young,
Tell it to all,
In ev'ry tongue.
Ring, Christmas bells,
Toll loud and long,
Your message sweet,
Peel and prolong.
Come all ye people,
Join in the singing,
Repeat the story,
Told by the ringing.
Ring, Christmas bells,
Tell the glad news
Of Jesus birth.
Loudly proclaim,
With one accord,
The happy tale,
Welcome the Lord!
Ring, Christmas bells,
Merrily ring,
Tell all the world,
Jesus is King!

Track 4: Medley: Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow! / Count Your Blessings (Instead of Sheep) / We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Oh, the weather outside is frightful,
But the fire is so delightful,
And since we've no place to go,
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.

It doesn't show signs of stopping,
And I brought some corn for popping;
The lights are turned way down low,
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.

When we finally say good night,
How I'll hate going out in the storm;
But if you really hold me tight,
All the way home I'll be warm.

The fire is slowly dying,
And, my dear, we're still good-bye-ing,
But as long as you love me so.
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.

When I'm worried and I can't sleep
I count my blessings instead of sheep
And I fall asleep
Counting my blessings
When my bankroll is getting small
I think of when I had none at all
And I fall asleep
Counting my blessings
I think about a nursery and I picture curly heads
And one by one I count them as they slumber in their beds
If you're worried and you can't sleep
Just count your blessings instead of sheep
And you'll fall asleep
Counting your blessings

We wish you a merry Christmas
We wish you a merry Christmas
We wish you a merry Christmas
And a Happy New Year

REFRAIN
Good tidings we bring to you and your kin,
We wish you a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Now bring us some figgy pudding
Now bring us some figgy pudding
Now bring us some figgy pudding
And bring some out here

We wish you a merry Christmas
We wish you a merry Christmas
We wish you a merry Christmas
And a Happy New Year

For we all like figgy pudding
We all like figgy pudding
We all like figgy pudding
So bring some out here

We wish you a merry Christmas
We wish you a merry Christmas
We wish you a merry Christmas
And a Happy New Year

And we won't go until we've got some
We won't go until we've got some
We won't go until we've got some
So bring some out here

We wish you a merry Christmas
We wish you a merry Christmas
We wish you a merry Christmas
And a Happy New Year

If you're worried and you can't sleep
Just count your blessings instead of sheep
And you'll fall asleep
Counting your blessings

Track 5 - "The Twelve Days of Christmas"
On the first day of Christmas,
My true love sent to me
A partridge in a pear tree.

On the second day of Christmas,
My true love sent to me
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the third day of Christmas,
My true love sent to me
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the fourth day of Christmas
My true love sent to me
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the fifth day of Christmas
My true love sent to me
Five gold rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the sixth day of Christmas
My true love sent to me
Six geese a-laying,
Five gold rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the seventh day of Christmas
My true love sent to me
Seven swans a-swimming,
Six geese a-laying,
Five gold rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the eighth day of Christmas
My true love sent to me
Eight maids a-milking,
Seven swans a-swimming,
Six geese a-laying,
Five gold rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree.

On the ninth day of Christmas
My true love sent to me
Nine ladies dancing,
Eight maids a-milking,
Seven swans a-swimming,
Six geese a-laying,
Five gold rings,
Four calling birds,
Three French hens,
Two turtle doves,
And a partridge in a pear tree.

Liturgy of the Word

The Liturgy of the Word began with a reading from the book of Exodus 22:20 to 26. The psalmist sings the Responsorial Psalm to be sung, at least as far as the people’s response is "I love you, Lord, my strength", while the whole congregation sits and listens, normally taking part by means of the response, except when the Psalm is sung straight through, that is, without a response. The second reading was read by in English, taken first letter of saint Paul to the Thessalonians, 1:5-10. The reader ended by saying, "The Word of the Lord." Congregants replied in chant, "Thanks be to God."

Congregants stood for the proclamation of the Gospel, heralded by the choir singing of Alleluia in Pilipino.

Choir:

After being blessed by Cardinal Bergolio, Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal G. Tagle, processed with the Book of the Gospels to the ambo or lectern. He began by saying, "A reading from the holy gospel of Matthew." Congregants replied, "Glory to you, O Lord." Moss then incensed the Book of the Gospel and then says the reading in English. The reading came from Matthew chapter 22, verse 34 to 40, stating, "When the Pharisees heard that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together, and one of them, a scholar of the law tested him by asking, "Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?" He said to him, "You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and the first commandment. The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. The whole law and the prophets depend on these two commandments." The Archbishop raised the Book of the Gospel and says "The Gospel of the Lord." Congregants replied in chant, "Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ."

Preparations ‘on track’

THE stage of the venue for the annual anniversary celebration and prayer assembly of Evangelical Christian and Roman Catholic Charismatic Renewal Religious Group "Jesus is Lord Church" on October 26 is almost complete, said Fr. Raul Gallego, chairman on venue preparation.

Gallego said that although the designated parking area is not yet finished, car passes were already distributed to those who applied for accreditation through the parishes.

The parking area, which is across the street of the venue, can accommodate 10,000 cars.

He said work on the template had to stop the other night because of heavy rain. Work resumed yesterday morning.

He said they are praying it won’t rain during the remaining days of preparation so they can be ready for the dry run on Saturday.

“I am confident that everything will be ready by Saturday. I hope it will not rain anymore,” Gallego said.

More assurance

Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama also assured the public that the venue will be completed in time for the celebration. He intends to bring members of the media to the area when it is completed, a few days before the big day.

“There is still time. Everything will be addressed,” Rama told reporters yesterday.

The templete is being constructed on a Cebu City Government lot adjacent to the future SM City at the South Road Properties.

Gallego said SM City and the Cebu Contractors Association provided free filling materials for free. The latter also provided free labor (drivers and heavy equipment operators) and other construction materials.

The priest said the templete will become a permanent structure in the area. They want to preserve it as a historical place.

“We already wrote the Cebu City Council to pass a resolution declaring it as a historical place. Once declared, it will become a tourist attraction,” Gallego said.
A million people are expected to attend the thanksgiving mass.

In a related development, T. Padilla Barangay Captain Michael Ralota wants to name the Mambaling access road to the SRP as San Pedro Calungsod Ave.

Ralota, an ex-officio member of the City Council, proposed an ordinance to name the access road in honor of the first Visayan and second Filipino saint.

Media exposure

He also sponsored a resolution requesting the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) to conduct live coverage of the event.

A copy of the resolution was furnished to former KBP president Ruphil Bañoc and Bobby Nalzaro of radio dySS and Leo Lastimosa of radio dyAB.

“The KBP Cebu chapter member media institutions have a greater role and duty to inform and to disseminate to the general public the highlights of certain focal events that are impressed with lasting and historic cultural significance, including the national thanksgiving mass,” read Ralota’s resolution, which the council approved.

As for renaming the Mambaling access road, Ralota’s proposal was referred to the Cultural and Historical Affairs Commission and the committee on laws for comment.

Mayor Rama said he has no objections to the proposal.

Reconfigured jet to fly Pope.

A reconfigured Airbus A300 aircraft of Philippine Airlines (PAL) will fly Pope Francis to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea today at the close of His Holiness' four-day pastoral and state visit to the Philippines.

Senior officials of Philippine Airlines led by Chairman Dr. Lucio Tan and President Ramon S. Ang and the charterers, PMFTC, Inc. will join the Pontiff on the flight that will take about four hours and 42 minutes. Papua New Guinea is the second stop in the Holy Father's Asian tour this year.

After farewell ceremonies at the Old Manila International Airport, the Plane enblazoned with the exultation: “Totus Tuus!” takes off at around 10:00 A.M.

The flight will be commanded by Captain Johnny Andrews. The pilot-in-command is Captain Alfredo Juliano who assisted by Captain Oliver Castro, First Officers Ruben Matro and Servando Bocao and flight engineers Danny Hallare and Manuelito Respaldon. Inflight service will be provided two sets of cabin crew numbering 22 led-by pursers Angelito Tiras and John Inopea.

The rest of the crew are assistant flight purser Aurora Bautista, stewards Wesley Calfoforo, Salvador Cacho, Joseph Torral, Rafael Torralba, Aurora Ponce-Enrile, Susan del Carmen, Jesulta de Leon, Stella Frias, Elsie Escutin, Hermie Cagalingan, Cristina Padilla, Lourdes Ledesma, Ysabel Costas, Evangeline Gatmaitan, Margarita Manzano, Cynthia Rosales and Service Manager Augusto Barrios.

As reconfigured, the Aircraft is fitted with special seats, a sleeperette, and a dedicated lavatory to suit the requirements of the Holy Father during the flight to Port Moresby, located some 2,161 nautical miles south of Manila.

During the deceased pope John Paul 2's visit in February 1981, PAL flew the Pontiff to several key cities in the country: including Cebu, Bacolod, Iloilo, Davao, Baguio and Subic.

PSG Chief bares plot to assassinate pontiff

Law enforcement authorities were worried over a plot to assassinate Pope Francis even on the day of his departure, forcing them to change his route from the Apostolic Nunciature to the Old Manila International Airport yesterday.

http://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=8cBNEdFwSQkC&dat=19950114&printsec=frontpage&hl=en

Visit inspired us - Aquino

Manila, Philippines, October 28, 2014 - President Benigno S. Aquino III yesterday said the successful visit of Pope Francis to Manila has inspired his government and the Filipino People to act with more determination to combat poverty.

"We will carry on with even greater resolve our mission to conquer poverty, to lift every citizen to a life of dignity and well-being and to sustain ourselves on the needs of the spirit," Mr. Aquino III said in his short speech during the departure ceremonies for the Pope.

The President said his government, like the people who heard the Pope’s message of faith, hope and love, is “committed to meeting the greater needs of all humanity.”

He said the Pope has left the country “with a new sense of both the capabilities and responsibilities of our national community - specially our resources of spirit and our responsibilities to others.”

At the same time, the President said his Philippines will continue to coordinate with his neighbors in trying to bring peace and economic prosperity in the region and the world.

For his part, Vice-President Jejomar Binay said the Pope's visit should have effect on criminals and other wayward elements of society.

Interviewed at the old Manila International Airport Terminal after the departure of the Holy Father, Binay Sr. said he is hoping the Pope's Apostolic Visit will be “the start of the conversation of criminals towards a better life and legal occupation.”

“Sana itong ating mga kababayan na naliligaw ng landas ay nagkaroon ng pagbabago ng kaisipan. Sa ibinahagi sana ng ating Santo Papa, sana'y hindi na mag-hanap-buhay ng illegal, at humanap ng trabaho na mahusay,” the Vice-President said.

“Wala silang panahon na magnanakaw, ang mga naliligaw ng landas, siguro sa pagdating ng ating Santo Papa ay humingi din ng kapatawaran. Sana tuloy-tuloy na ito,” Binay Sr. said.

"I Am Pope Ready: People's Pope sa Pilipinas 2014"

GMA-7, the official network of the Pope's Visit, to air "Jesus is Lord Church Anniversary Celebration".

The theme was "#PEACE102414" held at Quirino Grandstand, Rizal Park, Manila, the biggest annual historical celebration in the whole world.

It was the biggest expensive celebration here in the Philippines.

Samsung Galaxy Note Pro 12.2

Samsung Galaxy Note® Pro 12.2 64GB (Wi-Fi), Black

SM-P9000ZKFXAR and Samsung Galaxy S5

The Samsung Galaxy Note Pro 12.2 is a 12.2-inch Android-based tablet computer produced and marketed by Samsung Electronics.

It belongs to the new generation of the Samsung Galaxy Note series and Pro tablets, which also includes an 8.4-inch model, the Samsung Galaxy Tab Pro 8.4, a 10.1-inch model, the Samsung Galaxy Tab Pro 10.1, and another 12.2 inch model, the Samsung Galaxy Tab Pro 12.2. It was announced on 6 January 2014, (http://www.techradar.com/news/mobile-computing/tablets/samsung-galaxy-note-pro-12-2-puts-on-its-serious-face-1212602) and was released on February 13 in the US, starting at $749. (http://tabletmonkeys.com/pre-order-samsunggalaxy-notepro-12-2/)

http://www.samsung.com/us/mobile/galaxy-tab/SM-P9000ZKFXAR

• Also known as SM-P900 (Wifi)
• Developer: Samsung
• Product family: Galaxy Note
• Type:  Tablet, media player, PC
• FORM FACTOR: Touchscreen
• Color: Black
• Release date: P900 (2014/2/9)
• Media: MP4, MP3, WMA, MPEG, 3GP, AAF, GIF, ASF, DAT, M4V, SVI, FLA, FLR, WRAP, PPG, Ogg, WMV
• Operating System: Android 4.4 KitKat with Magazine UX
• Power: 9,500 mAh Li-Ion battery, CPU 1.9 GHz octa-core Samsung Exynos 5420 SoC processor (Wi-Fi)
• Internal Memory 3GB RAM; 64GB ROM (Portion of memory occupied by existing content)
• External Memory/MicroSD™ Capacity: Up to 64 GB
• SDHC/SHD SD Card Built-in MicroSD™ Card Slot to Add Storage or Transfer Files
• Display: 2,560×1,440 pixels resolution, 300 Pixels per inch, 16:9 aspect ratio, 12.2” (310 mm) diagonal, WQXGA TFT display
• Graphics: ARM Mali-T628MP6 (wifi model)
• Input: Multi-touch screen, Wacom digitizer, digital compass, proximity, gyroscope, accelerometer and ambient light sensors

(http://www.samsung.com/global/microsite/galaxypro/spec.html)

In the box

• Wall charger
• USB cable with proprietary connector
• Four spare S Pen stylus tips with tip replacement tool

Accessories included:

• Samsung 3-year ESP Coverage with ADH - Tablet - Band2 - TA-ADH2-PB2
• MB-MG64DA/AM MicroSDXC 64GB PRO Memory Card
• NotePRO 12.2/TabPRO 12.2 Samsung Galaxy Keyboard Cover Black (EE-CP905UBEGUJ)
• Galaxy Tab Pro/Note Pro 12.2 Book Cover - Black (EF-BP900BBEGUJ)
• Samsung Galaxy Bluetooth Keyboard (EE-BT550UBEGUJ)
• S Mouse (ET-MP900DBEGUJ)