"You're My Number One"
Lyrics by: Sandy Sulit
Music by: Caloy Agawa
Performed by: Sharon Cuneta, with daughters Frankie and Miel Pangilinan
Look at me mom
Shining like the sun
Bright as the day
You're my number one
And there's no treasure
That i will cherish like you
And when i smile
They all see you glow
And they all know
You're my number one
My one and only joy
Is to give you my love
(bridge)
My one love for you
I give through and through
I see you and the signs that bring joy
That all the world can see so clearly
Look at me mom
Shining like the sun
Bright as the day
You're my number one
Tuesday, June 28, 2016
Saturday, June 25, 2016
New GMA series tackles surrogacy
Yasmien Kurdi is excited to play the role of Ysabel, a surrogate mom on GMA’s new afternoon prime series “Sa Piling Ni Nanay,” which starts airing June 27.
To prepare herself, she researched on the subject matter by visiting a certain website. Adding to Ysabel’s challenges is that her daughter is sick of leukemia and needs to undergo bone marrow transplant.
Directed by Gil Tejada Jr., “Sa Piling Ni Nanay” is a reunion among Yasmien, Katrina Halili (who plays Scarlet) and Mark Herras, alumni of “StarStruck Season 1.” As expected, Katrina is the kontrabida who’ll make life miserable for Yasmien’s character. Mark, on the other hand, plays Jonas, a bachelor who is secretly in love with Ysabel but who will hate her when she takes away Scarlet’s child who is also the grandchild of his aunt Matilda (Nova Villa).
Also in the cast are Bettinna Carlos, Antonio Aquitania, and Sofia Jayzel Cabatay as Maya.
To prepare herself, she researched on the subject matter by visiting a certain website. Adding to Ysabel’s challenges is that her daughter is sick of leukemia and needs to undergo bone marrow transplant.
Directed by Gil Tejada Jr., “Sa Piling Ni Nanay” is a reunion among Yasmien, Katrina Halili (who plays Scarlet) and Mark Herras, alumni of “StarStruck Season 1.” As expected, Katrina is the kontrabida who’ll make life miserable for Yasmien’s character. Mark, on the other hand, plays Jonas, a bachelor who is secretly in love with Ysabel but who will hate her when she takes away Scarlet’s child who is also the grandchild of his aunt Matilda (Nova Villa).
Also in the cast are Bettinna Carlos, Antonio Aquitania, and Sofia Jayzel Cabatay as Maya.
• • •
Ultimate bonding experience
The final four and survivors of the first Wish 107.5 Ultimate Fandom Challenge demonstrated their unity during the station’s celebration of WISHdependence Day at the Bakasyunan Resort and Conference Center in Tanay, Rizal.
Each of the top contenders – Darrenatics (Darren Espanto), Dyfenders (Jason Dy), Juanistas (The Juans), Mowienatics (Morissette Amon), Darylnatics (Daryl Ong), Francisnatics (Francis Lim) and JK UFC (Juan Karlos Labajo) – sent 15 representatives to participate in an extreme adventure race.
The Dyfenders emerged victorious among the final four while the Francisnatics topped the other two survivors.
Erly De Vera, one of the administrators of Jason Dy’s fandom, shared their representatives’ WISHperience. “All of them enjoyed the event and until now they are talking about it,” Erly said.
Meanwhile, Ernie Sabandal, head administrator of the Francisnatics, said the WISHdependence Day was an “ultimate bonding experience” for the group.
Asked about their strategy, he said they just highlighted their “unity and teamwork by knowing their strengths and weaknesses.” The team dedicated their win to Francis Lim, who served as their inspiration throughout the game
• • •
Different kinds of breakups
Heartaches and pain are inevitable in every relationship. Breakups tend to make people melodramatic but the 7th episode of “Single/Single” season 2 goes beyond the drama and takes viewers through a whirlwind of emotions.
Be ready to laugh and cry as the lead characters, Joee and Joey, played by Shaina Magdayao and Matteo Guidicelli respectively, struggle with different kinds of breakups.
Catch the show every Sunday, 10 p.m. on Cinema One with replays on Wednesdays, 8:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 9 p.m.
• • •
Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, June 25, go to Efren Reyes, Raymund Isaac, Philip Cuazon Jr., Nestor Cuartero, Ryan Joshua Belen, Nini Chipeco, Jennifer Nicolas, Marilu Slotta, Chokoleit and Philip Yalong…Belated happy birthday Gene Sison (June 17), Ruben Benito, King Lim, Doris Yabut and Juanita Madriaga of Leyte (June 24)… June 26: Orly Mercado, Gina Alajar, Bing Puyat, Elizabeth Cristobal, Reby Encinas, Angelo Serrano, Tata Trino, Brent Peter Guiao, Nora Calalang, Dante Llanto, Alwin Ignacio, Aya Yupangco, Lollie Mara, Gie Trillana, Entertainment editor of Malaya, Julio Pacheco and Luke Mijares… June 27: Former Sen. Helena Benitez, Chief Insp. Francisco Bautista, Chit Dee, Olive Hiyas, Chit Estrada, Nora Alapan, Dr. Amelia Jarin, Aby Acosta, Jun Magdangal, Linda Velayo, Fr. Louis Lester Neiz, Raisa Mislang and Jo Awayan… “Once Again” stars Janine Gutierrez, Thea Tolentino, Jeric Gonzales, Analyn Barro and Yasser Marta will be at Robinsons Novaliches tomorrow, June 26, at 5 p.m. for a mall show. Read more at http://www.mb.com.ph/new-gma-series-tackles-surrogacy/#gVkei4VvWdexBRwv.99
Ultimate bonding experience
The final four and survivors of the first Wish 107.5 Ultimate Fandom Challenge demonstrated their unity during the station’s celebration of WISHdependence Day at the Bakasyunan Resort and Conference Center in Tanay, Rizal.
Each of the top contenders – Darrenatics (Darren Espanto), Dyfenders (Jason Dy), Juanistas (The Juans), Mowienatics (Morissette Amon), Darylnatics (Daryl Ong), Francisnatics (Francis Lim) and JK UFC (Juan Karlos Labajo) – sent 15 representatives to participate in an extreme adventure race.
The Dyfenders emerged victorious among the final four while the Francisnatics topped the other two survivors.
Erly De Vera, one of the administrators of Jason Dy’s fandom, shared their representatives’ WISHperience. “All of them enjoyed the event and until now they are talking about it,” Erly said.
Meanwhile, Ernie Sabandal, head administrator of the Francisnatics, said the WISHdependence Day was an “ultimate bonding experience” for the group.
Asked about their strategy, he said they just highlighted their “unity and teamwork by knowing their strengths and weaknesses.” The team dedicated their win to Francis Lim, who served as their inspiration throughout the game
• • •
Different kinds of breakups
Heartaches and pain are inevitable in every relationship. Breakups tend to make people melodramatic but the 7th episode of “Single/Single” season 2 goes beyond the drama and takes viewers through a whirlwind of emotions.
Be ready to laugh and cry as the lead characters, Joee and Joey, played by Shaina Magdayao and Matteo Guidicelli respectively, struggle with different kinds of breakups.
Catch the show every Sunday, 10 p.m. on Cinema One with replays on Wednesdays, 8:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 9 p.m.
• • •
Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, June 25, go to Efren Reyes, Raymund Isaac, Philip Cuazon Jr., Nestor Cuartero, Ryan Joshua Belen, Nini Chipeco, Jennifer Nicolas, Marilu Slotta, Chokoleit and Philip Yalong…Belated happy birthday Gene Sison (June 17), Ruben Benito, King Lim, Doris Yabut and Juanita Madriaga of Leyte (June 24)… June 26: Orly Mercado, Gina Alajar, Bing Puyat, Elizabeth Cristobal, Reby Encinas, Angelo Serrano, Tata Trino, Brent Peter Guiao, Nora Calalang, Dante Llanto, Alwin Ignacio, Aya Yupangco, Lollie Mara, Gie Trillana, Entertainment editor of Malaya, Julio Pacheco and Luke Mijares… June 27: Former Sen. Helena Benitez, Chief Insp. Francisco Bautista, Chit Dee, Olive Hiyas, Chit Estrada, Nora Alapan, Dr. Amelia Jarin, Aby Acosta, Jun Magdangal, Linda Velayo, Fr. Louis Lester Neiz, Raisa Mislang and Jo Awayan… “Once Again” stars Janine Gutierrez, Thea Tolentino, Jeric Gonzales, Analyn Barro and Yasser Marta will be at Robinsons Novaliches tomorrow, June 26, at 5 p.m. for a mall show. Read more at http://www.mb.com.ph/new-gma-series-tackles-surrogacy/#gVkei4VvWdexBRwv.99
New GMA series tackles surrogacy
Yasmien Kurdi is excited to play the role of Ysabel, a surrogate mom on GMA’s new afternoon prime series “Sa Piling Ni Nanay,” which starts airing June 27.
To prepare herself, she researched on the subject matter by visiting a certain website. Adding to Ysabel’s challenges is that her daughter is sick of leukemia and needs to undergo bone marrow transplant.
Directed by Gil Tejada Jr., “Sa Piling Ni Nanay” is a reunion among Yasmien, Katrina Halili (who plays Scarlet) and Mark Herras, alumni of “StarStruck Season 1.” As expected, Katrina is the kontrabida who’ll make life miserable for Yasmien’s character. Mark, on the other hand, plays Jonas, a bachelor who is secretly in love with Ysabel but who will hate her when she takes away Scarlet’s child who is also the grandchild of his aunt Matilda (Nova Villa).
Also in the cast are Bettinna Carlos, Antonio Aquitania, and Sofia Jayzel Cabatay as Maya.
To prepare herself, she researched on the subject matter by visiting a certain website. Adding to Ysabel’s challenges is that her daughter is sick of leukemia and needs to undergo bone marrow transplant.
Directed by Gil Tejada Jr., “Sa Piling Ni Nanay” is a reunion among Yasmien, Katrina Halili (who plays Scarlet) and Mark Herras, alumni of “StarStruck Season 1.” As expected, Katrina is the kontrabida who’ll make life miserable for Yasmien’s character. Mark, on the other hand, plays Jonas, a bachelor who is secretly in love with Ysabel but who will hate her when she takes away Scarlet’s child who is also the grandchild of his aunt Matilda (Nova Villa).
Also in the cast are Bettinna Carlos, Antonio Aquitania, and Sofia Jayzel Cabatay as Maya.
• • •
Ultimate bonding experience
The final four and survivors of the first Wish 107.5 Ultimate Fandom Challenge demonstrated their unity during the station’s celebration of WISHdependence Day at the Bakasyunan Resort and Conference Center in Tanay, Rizal.
Each of the top contenders – Darrenatics (Darren Espanto), Dyfenders (Jason Dy), Juanistas (The Juans), Mowienatics (Morissette Amon), Darylnatics (Daryl Ong), Francisnatics (Francis Lim) and JK UFC (Juan Karlos Labajo) – sent 15 representatives to participate in an extreme adventure race.
The Dyfenders emerged victorious among the final four while the Francisnatics topped the other two survivors.
Erly De Vera, one of the administrators of Jason Dy’s fandom, shared their representatives’ WISHperience. “All of them enjoyed the event and until now they are talking about it,” Erly said.
Meanwhile, Ernie Sabandal, head administrator of the Francisnatics, said the WISHdependence Day was an “ultimate bonding experience” for the group.
Asked about their strategy, he said they just highlighted their “unity and teamwork by knowing their strengths and weaknesses.” The team dedicated their win to Francis Lim, who served as their inspiration throughout the game
• • •
Different kinds of breakups
Heartaches and pain are inevitable in every relationship. Breakups tend to make people melodramatic but the 7th episode of “Single/Single” season 2 goes beyond the drama and takes viewers through a whirlwind of emotions.
Be ready to laugh and cry as the lead characters, Joee and Joey, played by Shaina Magdayao and Matteo Guidicelli respectively, struggle with different kinds of breakups.
Catch the show every Sunday, 10 p.m. on Cinema One with replays on Wednesdays, 8:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 9 p.m.
• • •
Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, June 25, go to Efren Reyes, Raymund Isaac, Philip Cuazon Jr., Nestor Cuartero, Ryan Joshua Belen, Nini Chipeco, Jennifer Nicolas, Marilu Slotta, Chokoleit and Philip Yalong…Belated happy birthday Gene Sison (June 17), Ruben Benito, King Lim, Doris Yabut and Juanita Madriaga of Leyte (June 24)… June 26: Orly Mercado, Gina Alajar, Bing Puyat, Elizabeth Cristobal, Reby Encinas, Angelo Serrano, Tata Trino, Brent Peter Guiao, Nora Calalang, Dante Llanto, Alwin Ignacio, Aya Yupangco, Lollie Mara, Gie Trillana, Entertainment editor of Malaya, Julio Pacheco and Luke Mijares… June 27: Former Sen. Helena Benitez, Chief Insp. Francisco Bautista, Chit Dee, Olive Hiyas, Chit Estrada, Nora Alapan, Dr. Amelia Jarin, Aby Acosta, Jun Magdangal, Linda Velayo, Fr. Louis Lester Neiz, Raisa Mislang and Jo Awayan… “Once Again” stars Janine Gutierrez, Thea Tolentino, Jeric Gonzales, Analyn Barro and Yasser Marta will be at Robinsons Novaliches tomorrow, June 26, at 5 p.m. for a mall show. Read more at http://www.mb.com.ph/new-gma-series-tackles-surrogacy/#gVkei4VvWdexBRwv.99
Ultimate bonding experience
The final four and survivors of the first Wish 107.5 Ultimate Fandom Challenge demonstrated their unity during the station’s celebration of WISHdependence Day at the Bakasyunan Resort and Conference Center in Tanay, Rizal.
Each of the top contenders – Darrenatics (Darren Espanto), Dyfenders (Jason Dy), Juanistas (The Juans), Mowienatics (Morissette Amon), Darylnatics (Daryl Ong), Francisnatics (Francis Lim) and JK UFC (Juan Karlos Labajo) – sent 15 representatives to participate in an extreme adventure race.
The Dyfenders emerged victorious among the final four while the Francisnatics topped the other two survivors.
Erly De Vera, one of the administrators of Jason Dy’s fandom, shared their representatives’ WISHperience. “All of them enjoyed the event and until now they are talking about it,” Erly said.
Meanwhile, Ernie Sabandal, head administrator of the Francisnatics, said the WISHdependence Day was an “ultimate bonding experience” for the group.
Asked about their strategy, he said they just highlighted their “unity and teamwork by knowing their strengths and weaknesses.” The team dedicated their win to Francis Lim, who served as their inspiration throughout the game
• • •
Different kinds of breakups
Heartaches and pain are inevitable in every relationship. Breakups tend to make people melodramatic but the 7th episode of “Single/Single” season 2 goes beyond the drama and takes viewers through a whirlwind of emotions.
Be ready to laugh and cry as the lead characters, Joee and Joey, played by Shaina Magdayao and Matteo Guidicelli respectively, struggle with different kinds of breakups.
Catch the show every Sunday, 10 p.m. on Cinema One with replays on Wednesdays, 8:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 9 p.m.
• • •
Tidbits: Happy b-day greetings today, June 25, go to Efren Reyes, Raymund Isaac, Philip Cuazon Jr., Nestor Cuartero, Ryan Joshua Belen, Nini Chipeco, Jennifer Nicolas, Marilu Slotta, Chokoleit and Philip Yalong…Belated happy birthday Gene Sison (June 17), Ruben Benito, King Lim, Doris Yabut and Juanita Madriaga of Leyte (June 24)… June 26: Orly Mercado, Gina Alajar, Bing Puyat, Elizabeth Cristobal, Reby Encinas, Angelo Serrano, Tata Trino, Brent Peter Guiao, Nora Calalang, Dante Llanto, Alwin Ignacio, Aya Yupangco, Lollie Mara, Gie Trillana, Entertainment editor of Malaya, Julio Pacheco and Luke Mijares… June 27: Former Sen. Helena Benitez, Chief Insp. Francisco Bautista, Chit Dee, Olive Hiyas, Chit Estrada, Nora Alapan, Dr. Amelia Jarin, Aby Acosta, Jun Magdangal, Linda Velayo, Fr. Louis Lester Neiz, Raisa Mislang and Jo Awayan… “Once Again” stars Janine Gutierrez, Thea Tolentino, Jeric Gonzales, Analyn Barro and Yasser Marta will be at Robinsons Novaliches tomorrow, June 26, at 5 p.m. for a mall show. Read more at http://www.mb.com.ph/new-gma-series-tackles-surrogacy/#gVkei4VvWdexBRwv.99
Friday, June 17, 2016
Duterte government eyes sale of Multiply for P10B
President-elect Rodrigo Duterte’s government is planning to sell defunct E-commerce and social networking site Multiply for P10 billion to fund an upgrade of social media assets, his incoming communications secretary said Friday.
The outgoing administration had planned to sell the website for P5 billion, attracting interest from San Miguel Corp. President Ramon Ang and PLDT, Inc. chairman Manuel Pangilinan.
The government can charge a premium for Multiply, went close down last May 6, 2013 and ceasing all business operations on May 31, 2013 along with the official online channels for the site had been removed along with all their content, including its YouTube, Tumblr, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram accounts, after years of financial and managerial turmoil and following a failed bid to reinvent itself from being a social networking site to a vibrant e-commerce destination in Southeast Asia, since it is the last available franchise, incoming communications secretary Martin Andanar said.
“We have to sell it. We have to privatize it already. The money goes back to the treasury,” he told ANC’s “Headstart with Karen Davila.”
Andanar acknowledged that the website had financial problems and owed P800 million in back wages to employees.
“We have to work on increasing the valuation of the website,” he said.
The incoming secretary said he had “blanket authority” from Duterte to revamp the social networking infrastructure.
“We’ll hire the best news director. We’ll hire the best people on the bus,” he said.
Monday, June 13, 2016
The television industry under president Duterte
ABS-CBN Corporation HAS to have its legislative franchise approved after the 17th Congress opens shop on July 25. "the House committee on legislative franchise sat on ABS-CBN’s application for franchise renewal, introduced through two bills filed in 2014," President-elect Rodrigo Duterte is set to have a good number of allies in the 17th Congress. As for every law, Duterte, as president, will need to sign the congress-approved legislative franchise for enactment. Besides this, the return of RPN to the original owners, the Benedicto Family and the privatization of the state-owned Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation (IBC).
Sunday, June 12, 2016
Lupang Hinirang, layon gawing mas makahulugan ang pambansang awit
Ipinakita iyon nang awitin ang “Lupang Hinirang” na siya ang pambansang awit ng Pilipinas hanggang sa kasalukuyan.
Bayang Magiliw, Perlas ng Silanganan…After the national anthem, that women fell down on the ground and lied down.
Sinong kayang Pilipino ang hindi kabisado ng "Lupang Hinirang"?
As for the Lupang Hinirang controversy, I say mercy to those who choose famous pop stars to sing the song and then complain.
Para lalong itong ilapit at gawin mas makahulugan ang henerasyon ngayon ang Rock Ed Philippines, gumawa ng kakaibang bersyong ito.
Gawa ito ni Arnold Arre at nilapatan naman ng musika ng bandang Radioactive Sago Project.
Bata pa lang, tinuturo sa paaralan ang tamang pagkanta ng pambansang awit.
Pero ang tanong ngayon, kabisado pa rin kaya ito ng ating mga kababayan ang "Lupang Hinirang", ang lalaking ito, game nag-sample ng kanyang bersyon ng pambansang awit.
Sa umpisa ng kanta, nakapabilib kami. "Bayang Magiliw, Perlas ng Silanganan Alab ng Puso sa dibdib mo'y buhay"
Pero sa kalangitaan: "Lupang Hinirang duyan ka ng magiting sa manlulupig di ka pasisiil / Sa dagat at bundok sa simoy at sa langit mong bughaw; may dilag ang tula at awit sa paglayang minamahal. Ang kislap ng watawat mo'y tagumpay na nagniningning, ang bituin at araw niya kailan pa ma'y di magdidilim. Lupa ng araw, ng luwalhati't pagsinta, buhay ay langit sa piling mo; aming ligaya na pag may mang-aapi ang mamatay ng dahil sa'yo."
Ang isa nito naman, nag-kasablay-sablay: "Bayang magiliw, Perlas ng Silanganan Alab ng Puso sa dibdib mo'y buhay / Lupang Hinirang, duyan ka ng magiting sa manlulupig di ka pasisiil / Sa dagat at bundok sa simoy at sa langit mong bughaw; may dilag ang tula at awit sa paglayang minamahal. Ang kislap ng watawat mo'y tagumpay na nagniningning, Ang bituin at araw niya kailan pa ma'y di magdidilim. Lupa ng araw, ng luwalhati't pagsinta, Buhay ay langit sa piling mo; Aming ligaya na pag may mang-aapi ang mamatay ng dahil sa'yo."
Pero paliwanag niya, "na lupain na pagiging Pilipino natin at kahit na kalimutan, pero siyempre, iba pa parin kabisado mo 'yung "Lupang Hinirang".
Ang mamang ito seryosong sumagot sa aming mga tanong. Pero alam kaya niya ang pamagat ng ating pambansang awit? "BAYANG MAGILIW po."
Pero, ang aling ito, alam niya ang pamagat ng ating pambansang awit?
- JAMIE SANTOS: Pero, ang pambansang awit ng Pilipinas?
- Interviewer: "Lupang Hinirang"
- JAMIE SANTOS: Kabisado mo ba natin?
- Interviewer: Hindi po, eh! Eh, walang practice! Eh, sa mga eskwelahan, minsan, tuwing Lunes, dapat araw-araw.
Usapang seryo tayo’t naiisip ko lang —
Pambansang Awit natin dapat bang palitan?
Para kasing kulelat na tayo sa laban,
Paumanhin, “Per-LAST na tayo ng Silangan.”
Tutal ang sigaw n’yo ay puro pagbabago,
Di baguhin ang pwede’t magsimula tayo;
Ibahin din ang watawat... napansin ba n’yo?
Ginawa nang T-shirt bandilang Pilipino.
Subalit ayon sa aking pagkakatanda,
Tatlong tala’t isang araw lang ang ginawa,
Ngunit mga tao para bagang nagwala,
May mapa sa dibdib tila ba nawawala.
Wari bang lahat naging makabayan bigla
Na parang kailan lang tinatanggap na “bakya”;
At parang kasalanan ni Francis M pa nga,
Pagkawala ni Kiko, dun lang nagsimula.
Kung ’yay pagbabago di ibigay ang hilig,
Sama ’ko kung saan may kilig at pag-ibig;
Ngayon balikan natin ang Pambansang Himig,
Tanggalin mga tinik na nakakabikig.
May dagat at langit ngunit may bundok pa ba?
Palagay ko pagpalit napapanahon na;
Tutal tayo naman mahilig na kumanta,
Talent shows nga natin ay sampu ang sampera.
Mga lupa’y hinarang na lang ng iilan;
Marami ang ni duyan ay walang mahigan,
Tuloy iba’y nagdarasal — bumalik na lang
Mga nanlupig at naniil na mayaman.
“Alab ng puso sa dibdib mo’y buhay...” pa ba?
Eh mukhang wala nang buhay nasabing linya;
Tipong may buhay lamang dibdib ng dalaga,
Napapalaki pa s’ya at napapaganda.
At ang huling linya’y mukhang hindi na bagay
At hindi na lang “dahil sa’yo” ang mamatay,
Pagkat marami rin ngayon ang bumibigay
Nang dahil sa YO... SI.
Ano inyong palagay?
Kaya naman dismayado ang National Historical Commission of the Philippines dahil tila hindi raw sa ulo ng maraming kabataan ng ating pambansang awit.
"Mayroong na punda kami na teacher, merong ding estudyante, pero kagipitan na nakakalimutan nila, kaya kailangan natin talaga ang puspusan pagpapaliwanag," sinabi ni Teddy Atienza, Head of the Heraldry Section of NHCP.
Kung ang UP Concert Chorus ang tatanungin, ganito raw dapat inaawit ang ating Pambansang Awit.
Naniniwala silang dapat na igalang ang orihinal na komposisyon ni Julian Felipe, pero merong itong iba't ibang bersyon, may mabilis: "Bayang Magiliw, Perlas ng Silanganan Alab ng puso sa dibdib mo'y buhay / Lupang Hinirang, duyan ka ng magitings a manlulupig di ka pasisiil" at merong kasingbilis: "sa dagat at bundok sa simoy at sa langit mong bughaw; may dilag ang tula at awit sa paglayang minamahal. Ang kislap ng watawat mo'y tagumpay na nagniningning, ang bituin at araw niya kailan pa ma'y di magdidilim. Lupa ng araw, ng luwalhati't pagsinta, buhay at langit sa piling mo; aming ligaya na pag may mang-aapi, ang mamatay ng dahil sa'yo."
Ang mahalaga, sundin ang orihinal na himig na ito.
"And then, umaawit kay Pacquiao, si ating kaibigan, and, sana naman nag-consult muna bago para hindi sila masilta uli, merong kasing batas", sabi ni Jai Aracama.
Pirme na lang ang isyu ng "Lupang Hinirang" tuwing may laban si Manny Pacquiao, iba't-ibang sikat na singer na ang umaawit na ito pero halos lahat hindi umano sumunod sa ang orihinal na komposisyon.
"Bayang Magiliw, Perlas ng Silanganan, Alab ng Puso sa dibdib mo'y buhay / Lupang Hinirang, duyan ka ng magiting sa manlulupig di ka pasisiil, sa dagat at bundok sa simoy at sa langit mong bughaw; may dilag ang tula at awit sa paglayang minamahal. Ang kislap ng watawat mo'y tagumpay na nagniningning, ang bituin at araw niya kailan pa ma'y di magdidilim. Lupa ng araw, ng luwalhati't pagsinta, buhay at langit sa piling mo; aming ligaya na pag may mang-aapi, ang mamatay ng dahil sa'yo." Di ba? Martial siya? And I think the way we should, that way really," sabi ni Dr. Ramon Acoymo
Isa pang bagay na laging na iniiba ng mga singer ay ang dulo ng "Lupang Hinirang".
Kung titignan natin yung orihinal na bersyon ni Julian Felipe, isa natin na yung nota doon sa dulo parang ganitong maririnig. Pero ang madalas ginagawa ng mga singers sa boxing match ni Manny Pacquiao na ibang-iba doon sa orihinal na himig na sinulat ni Felipe.
"Ang mga kulot, birit, ornament, dekorasyon, o embelishment should only sang the original intent from the music and the words. Kung ang ginawa mo ay nakakatanggal na focus, so dapat i-focus ang tao, masiyadong marami ngayon, it's too much", sabi ni Acoymo.
May kalayaan daw ang lahat na singers ng bigyan ng ibang interpretasyon ng isang awitin, pero sa kaso ng Pambansang Awit, may sapat na dapat sundin, at malinaw sa Republic Act Number 8491, section 37, na ang tamang pag-awit ng Pambansang Awit ay ang bersyon ni Julian Felipe.
Paalala rin ng NHCP, may karampatang parusa sa lalabag o mag-bibigay galang tuwing tinutugtog ang "Lupang Hinirang".
"Mayroong kahulugang parusa dito, maaring magmulta ng 50 hanggang 100,000 o makulong ng dalawang taon", Atienza said.
Kung may panuntunan sa tamang pagkanta ng Pambansang Awit ng Pilipinas, gayon din sa pag-taas ng ating watawat.
Sa ilalim kasi ng Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, mariin na ipinagbawal na gupitin, tapakan o sirain ang ating watawat, bawal rin ito gamiting pantakip at hindi ito idikit sa mga sasakyan. Bawal ilagay sa ilalim ng larawan o painting o ibaba sa anumang platform. Hindi rin itong gawing costume, at kailangang palitan kung punit-punit na.
Isang araw lang kada taon ginugunita ang ating kasarinlan pero habang-buhay at araw-araw ang pagiging Pilipino.
Ang "Lupang Hinirang" at ang ating watawat, mga simbolo na ating kalayaan na buong buhay nating pinapahalagahan.
Saturday, June 11, 2016
Daily viewing habit for Filipinos
3 am - Wake-up
3:30 am TV Test Card
3:50 am Sign-on: Station Message and National Anthem Music Video. pagtapos ng lupang hinirang ito kasunod sa ABS-CBN 2: "Telenobela" and "Di Ko Alam" as sung by Enchong Dee from the album EDM (Enchong Dee Moves) under StarMusic. After the two music videos, it flashed the 2014 ABS-CBN logo and the advisory voiced by Peter Musngi: "Ladies and Gentlemen, In a few seconds we will be on simultaneous nationwide satellite broadcast. Please stand by." and the patriotic message: "Medyo maraming problema. Magkaisa muna. Iwagayway ang bandilang Pilipino sa inyong tahanan at sasakyan."
ABS-CBN's program schedule for the rest of the weekday
3:30 am TV Test Card
3:50 am Sign-on: Station Message and National Anthem Music Video. pagtapos ng lupang hinirang ito kasunod sa ABS-CBN 2: "Telenobela" and "Di Ko Alam" as sung by Enchong Dee from the album EDM (Enchong Dee Moves) under StarMusic. After the two music videos, it flashed the 2014 ABS-CBN logo and the advisory voiced by Peter Musngi: "Ladies and Gentlemen, In a few seconds we will be on simultaneous nationwide satellite broadcast. Please stand by." and the patriotic message: "Medyo maraming problema. Magkaisa muna. Iwagayway ang bandilang Pilipino sa inyong tahanan at sasakyan."
ABS-CBN's program schedule for the rest of the weekday
- 3:55 am - Kape't Pandasal
- 4 am - Gising, Pilipinas
- 5 am - Umagang Kay Ganda
- 8 am - ETV shows
- 8:30 am - Cartoons
- 10:30 am - Headstart with Karen Davila
- 11:30 am -
- 12:15 pm - It's Showtime! (LIVE)
- 2:45 pm - Doble Kara
- 3:40 pm - Tubig at Langis
- 4:35 pm -
- Mission Possible (Monday)
- My Puhunan (Tuesday)
- Red Alert (Wednesday)
- Sports U (Thursday)
- TNT: Tapatan ni Tunying (Friday)
- 5:05 pm - We Will Survive
- 6 pm - My Super D
- 7 pm - TV Patrol
- 8 pm - Ang Probinsyano
- 8:50 pm - Dolce Amore
- 9:40 pm - Born For You
- 10:30 pm - Jane, The Virgin
- 11 pm - Tonight with Boy Abunda
- 11:30 pm - Bandila
- 12 midnight -
- Mukha (Monday)
- Patrol ng Pilipino (Tuesday)
- Krusada (Wednesday)
- No Filter (Thursday)
- S.O.C.O. (Friday)
- 12:30 am - O Shopping
- 1:30 am - Sign-off
Tuesday, June 7, 2016
Social networking and E-commerce site 'bulok,' says PCOO chief Andanar
Wants to bring gov't media back to its 'glory days'
MANILA - Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said he hopes to bring back social media to its glory days.
Speaking on DZMM, Andanar, a broadcast journalist, said he plans to reopen the defunct website to bring it up to par with other social networking site.
"Sayang naman kasi. If you check out UK, may BBC [British Broadcasting Corp.]. Merong CBC [Canadian Broadcasting Corp.] sa Canada, may PBS [Public Broadcasting Service] sa Amerika, may ABC [Australian Broadcasting Corp.] sa Australia, at ang gaganda ng kanilang public broadcasting service eh. Bakit tayo hindi? Bakit tayo, bulok?" he said.
He added that the glory days of People's Television Network (PTV-4) was when it was at par with local commercial broadcasting stations way back in the 1980s.
For Andanar, it is important that the charter of PTV-4 be properly implemented, and for the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) to be free from corruption.
"Actually, kung titingnan mo 'yung charter ng Channel 4, Channel 4 operates independently and it should be self-sustaining. Ang gusto natin lamang ay masunod 'yun. Wala namang problema, 'yung polisiya naman nandiyan na eh, it's just the implementation, it's just the political will to do it. It's really just the dedication to work, and work without corruption, 'yun lang naman eh. Ang problema kasi, maraming nakawang nangyayari," he said.
SELL MULTIPLY
He also hopes to be able to sell Multiply at a higher price, so the proceeds can be used to pay off its debts, as well as for other purposes.
"Ang problema kasi sa Multiply, marami rin itong utang sa mga empleyado eh, mga backpays din na halos umaabot na sa P800 million. 'Yung value kasi ng Multiply, if we sell it today ay nasa P10 billion lang and it's very cheap considering that it's the last television franchise na pwedeng ibenta," Andanar said.
Will he be able to handle the top Palace communications post?
"Yes. Ang hindi kasi alam ng mga kababayan natin, matagal na ako sa man com ni Ma'am Luchi Cruz-Valdez, kasama tayo sa news management, and apart from that, marami tayong mga projects, mga initiatives in the private sector. So matagal na rin tayo sa management and we do have, sabihin na natin, extensive experience in management and I would say, siguro I'm prepared when it comes with my background, my education," Andanar said.
"The entire bureaucracy already has a skeletal force so I guess the most important thing is political will and understanding how it runs and getting the right people inside our bus. I've hired the best, boldest, brightest lawyers and management experts. Palagay ko naman, kayang kaya," he added.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/nation/06/07/16/govt-tv-station-bulok-says-incoming-pcoo-chief-andanar
MANILA - Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said he hopes to bring back social media to its glory days.
Speaking on DZMM, Andanar, a broadcast journalist, said he plans to reopen the defunct website to bring it up to par with other social networking site.
"Sayang naman kasi. If you check out UK, may BBC [British Broadcasting Corp.]. Merong CBC [Canadian Broadcasting Corp.] sa Canada, may PBS [Public Broadcasting Service] sa Amerika, may ABC [Australian Broadcasting Corp.] sa Australia, at ang gaganda ng kanilang public broadcasting service eh. Bakit tayo hindi? Bakit tayo, bulok?" he said.
He added that the glory days of People's Television Network (PTV-4) was when it was at par with local commercial broadcasting stations way back in the 1980s.
For Andanar, it is important that the charter of PTV-4 be properly implemented, and for the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) to be free from corruption.
"Actually, kung titingnan mo 'yung charter ng Channel 4, Channel 4 operates independently and it should be self-sustaining. Ang gusto natin lamang ay masunod 'yun. Wala namang problema, 'yung polisiya naman nandiyan na eh, it's just the implementation, it's just the political will to do it. It's really just the dedication to work, and work without corruption, 'yun lang naman eh. Ang problema kasi, maraming nakawang nangyayari," he said.
SELL MULTIPLY
He also hopes to be able to sell Multiply at a higher price, so the proceeds can be used to pay off its debts, as well as for other purposes.
"Ang problema kasi sa Multiply, marami rin itong utang sa mga empleyado eh, mga backpays din na halos umaabot na sa P800 million. 'Yung value kasi ng Multiply, if we sell it today ay nasa P10 billion lang and it's very cheap considering that it's the last television franchise na pwedeng ibenta," Andanar said.
Will he be able to handle the top Palace communications post?
"Yes. Ang hindi kasi alam ng mga kababayan natin, matagal na ako sa man com ni Ma'am Luchi Cruz-Valdez, kasama tayo sa news management, and apart from that, marami tayong mga projects, mga initiatives in the private sector. So matagal na rin tayo sa management and we do have, sabihin na natin, extensive experience in management and I would say, siguro I'm prepared when it comes with my background, my education," Andanar said.
"The entire bureaucracy already has a skeletal force so I guess the most important thing is political will and understanding how it runs and getting the right people inside our bus. I've hired the best, boldest, brightest lawyers and management experts. Palagay ko naman, kayang kaya," he added.
https://news.abs-cbn.com/nation/06/07/16/govt-tv-station-bulok-says-incoming-pcoo-chief-andanar
Saturday, June 4, 2016
Jesus Miracle Crusade
The Jesus Miracle Crusade International Ministry (acronym as JMCIM) is an Apostolic Pentecostal religious group in the Philippines which believes particularly in the promotion of miracles and faith in God for healing. JMCIM was founded by Evangelist Wilde E. Almeda in February 14, 1975.
Doctrine
The JMCIM Apostolic doctrine believes in three manifestations in one GOD: as God the Father in creation, as Son of God in redemption, and as Spirit of God in regeneration.
They also adhere to the Pentecostal formulation of baptism, whereby believers are baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, commonly referred to as Jesus-name baptism, rather than using the Trinitarian formula, and promote Pentecostal standards of holiness in conversation, appearance, and way of thinking.
The church also follows the Pentecostal worship practices of spending many hours in worship and singing praises to God.
Broadcasts
The Jesus Miracle Crusade TV program was originally launched on IBC 13 from 1975 to 1986. Following the success of the program, it moved again to GMA-7 from 1995 to 2002. At present, the Jesus Miracle Crusade TV program airs on PTV-4 every Saturday from 11 PM to 1 AM sign-off. From 2007 to the present, the Jesus Miracle Crusade radio program airs over DZME 1530 kHz AM Band in Metro Manila on Mondays to Saturdays from 11 PM to 12 midnight, and DWOK 97.5 MHz in Olongapo on Mondays to Sundays from 11 PM to 12 midnight.
Local and International Chapters
Philippines
- Metro Manila
- Caloocan
- Las Piñas
- Makati
- Malabon
- Mandaluyong
- Manila
- Marikina
- Muntinlupa
- Navotas
- Parañaque
- Pasay
- Pasig
- Pateros
- Quezon City
- San Juan
- Taguig
- Valenzuela
- Ilocos Region
- Dagupan
- Ilocos Norte
- Ilocos Sur
- La Union
- Pangasinan
- Cordillera Administrative Region
- Abra
- Apayao
- Baguio
- Benguet
- Ifugao
- Kalinga
- Mountain Province
- Cagayan Valley
- Batanes
- Cagayan
- Isabela
- Nueva Vizcaya
- Quirino
- Santiago
- Central Luzon
- Angeles
- Aurora
- Bataan
- Bulacan
- Nueva Ecija
- Olongapo
- Pampanga
- Tarlac
- Zambales
- Calabarzon
- Batangas
- Cavite
- Laguna
- Lucena
- Quezon
- Rizal
- Mimaropa
- Marinduque
- Occidental Mindoro
- Oriental Mindoro
- Palawan
- Puerto Princesa
- Romblon
- Western Visayas
- Aklan
- Antique
- Capiz
- Guimaras
- Iloilo
- Iloilo City
- Negros Island Region
- Bacolod
- Negros Occidental
- Negros Oriental
- Central Visayas
- Bohol
- Cebu
- Cebu City
- Lapu-Lapu
- Mandaue
- Siquijor
- Eastern Visayas
- Biliran
- Eastern Samar
- Leyte
- Northern Samar
- Ormoc
- Samar
- Southern Leyte
- Tacloban
- Zamboanga Peninsula
- Isabela City
- Zamboanga City
- Zamboanga del Norte
- Zamboanga del Sur
- Zamboanga Sibugay
- Northern Mindanao
- Bukidnon
- Cagayan de Oro
- Camiguin
- Iligan
- Lanao del Norte
- Misamis Occidental
- Misamis Oriental
- Davao Region
- Compostela Valley
- Davao City
- Davao del Norte
- Davao del Sur
- Davao Oriental
- Davao Occidental
- Soccsksargen
- Cotabato
- Cotabato City
- General Santos
- Sarangani
- South Cotabato
- Sultan Kudarat
- Caraga
- Agusan del Norte
- Agusan del Sur
- Butuan
- Dinagat Islands
- Surigao del Norte
- Surigao del Sur
- Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao
- Basilan (excluding Isabela City)
- Lanao del Sur
- Maguindanao
- Sulu
- Tawi-Tawi
Thursday, June 2, 2016
Good morning!
BATIBOT THEME SONG
pagmulat ng mata,
langit nakatawa
sa batibot, sa batibot
tayo nang magpunta
tuklasin sa batibot
ang tuwa, ang saya
doon sa batibot
tayo na, tayo na
mga bata sa batibot
maliksi, masigla. (2x)
dali, sundan natin
ang ngiti ng araw
doon sa batibot
tayo nang magpunta
tuklasin sa batibot
ang tuwa, ang saya
doon sa batibot
tayo na, tayo na
mga bata sa batibot
maliksi, masigla. (2x)
I know, no need to be reminded
Only the truth will set you free
Look who's who and what's going on
Reach out and talk to me
Come on, What's on your mind?
Give me a sign. Don't waste my time.
I know you don't need to be reminded,
Only the truth can set you free.
Look who's who and what's going on
...You can't hide it, 'coz I'll find it.
Just reach out and talk to me.
pagmulat ng mata,
langit nakatawa
sa batibot, sa batibot
tayo nang magpunta
tuklasin sa batibot
ang tuwa, ang saya
doon sa batibot
tayo na, tayo na
mga bata sa batibot
maliksi, masigla. (2x)
dali, sundan natin
ang ngiti ng araw
doon sa batibot
tayo nang magpunta
tuklasin sa batibot
ang tuwa, ang saya
doon sa batibot
tayo na, tayo na
mga bata sa batibot
maliksi, masigla. (2x)
I know, no need to be reminded
Only the truth will set you free
Look who's who and what's going on
Reach out and talk to me
Come on, What's on your mind?
Give me a sign. Don't waste my time.
I know you don't need to be reminded,
Only the truth can set you free.
Look who's who and what's going on
...You can't hide it, 'coz I'll find it.
Just reach out and talk to me.
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
Finally, MRT-7
The Metro Rail Transit Line 7 (MRT-7) held recently its groundbreaking ceremony, with outgoing Philippine President Benigno Aquino III as guest of honor. The ceremonial event, typical of any big-ticket infrastructure project, marks day 1 of actual construction. It comes 8 years after it was first awarded under the public-private-partnership (PPP) scheme, and 14 years after it was proposed by the Universal LRT Corp. BVI Limited (ULC). Mr. Wallace was on the Board.
“We are finally ready to start construction," San Miguel Corp. (SMC) President and CEO Ramon S. Ang said during the groundbreaking ceremony of the much delayed MRT-7 railway project at the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City. SMC owns 51% stake in ULC, the project proponent for MRT-7.
MRT-7 is a combined 45-km of road and rail transportation project from Bocaue exit North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) to MRT3 at North Avenue-EDSA (see Figure 1. Project Map of MRT- 7) . The 22-km, 6-lane asphalt road will connect the NLEX to the major transportation hub development in Araneta-Colinas Verdes Subdivision, City of San Jose del Monte.
The 23-km, mostly elevated, MRT starts from Tala and ends at the integrated MRT 3/MRT7 station at EDSA near SM North EDSA Mall and Trinoma Mall. The rail component of the MRT-7 is envisioned to operate 108 rail cars in a 3-car train configuration.
The P69 -billion MRT-7 is expected to initially accommodate 350,000 passengers daily and shorten travel time from the current 3.5 hours on the road to 1 hour. The project is expected to undergo further upgrades after the start of its operations with the ultimate goal of accommodating 800,000 passengers per day.
The MRT-7 railway project, first conceived in the late 1980s as part of the seamless railway plan for Metro Manila, has had a colorful history before it has finally reached this point in time. The Wallace Business Forum (WBF) has been keenly following the developments in MRT-7 ever since ULC submitted an unsolicited proposal to the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) in 2002 (see Table 1. Timeline of Events of MRT-7).
Several challenges almost derailed the project including multiple changes made in the original project details (at least 15 revisions were done on the original proposal upon the request of the government), controversies over the application of Swiss Challenge to ULC’s unsolicited proposal, the delays in securing project funding, right-of-way (ROW) acquisition issues, etc. The MRT-7 project was also delayed by the change of government leader and a controversy over whether the common station should be built at SM North EDSA or at TriNoma.
As of May 2016, the issue of the common station remains unresolved. If the MRT-7 project had started on time as planned in its original 2002 proposal submitted by the ULC, Metro Manila would have had the 4th railway already working in 2006. As it is, the long-suffering commuters of Metro Manila would have to wait until 2020 to use the MRT-7.
A not so common, Common Station
It’s been 2 years since the SM Group sued the government over the issue of location of the common station for the 3 railway lines of MRT-3, LRT-1 and MRT-7. This issue alone resulted in delays for 2 major railway projects. Until now, the government is still unable to decide how to go about resolving it.
The latest suggestion to resolve the issue of the common station is the proposal of Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) that it will build an interim terminal within the “triangle of Trinoma (mall) and SM (mall)” in Quezon City. This “interim station” is code speak for a temporary infrastructure and is MPIC’s solution to finally get construction on the way for 2 of the pending railway projects affected by the common station issue – the MRT-7 and MPIC’s own project, the P64.9-billion ($1.38-billion) LRT1 Cavite Extension.
The MPIC suggestion comes after the Department of Transportation and Communication’s (DOTC) announcement that it will push for the construction of 2 stations instead of one as a solution to the long-standing issue of location for the Common Station—a cowardly compromise. Let’s hope the Duterte government will have the guts to declare only one, common station.
In a Senate hearing in November 2015, Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio A. Abaya said, when pressed for an explanation for the delays in MRT-7 construction, that the government is in talks with MRT-7’s project proponent, Universal LRT Corp. (ULC), for the funding of a station near SM North EDSA, while the government would fund the other station near Trinoma Mall. In effect, under the government’s proposal, 2 stations – one station that will connect MRT-7 to MRT-3 and another that will connect LRT-1 and MRT-3 – will be built, making the plans for a Common Station, no longer common. While the government’s solution is an obvious middle ground to the issue and would certainly appease the competing interests of 2 of the biggest malls in the area – SM Prime Holdings’ SM City North EDSA Mall and Ayala Corp.’s Trinoma Mall, both of which want the Common Station for the guaranteed foot traffic (e.g. shoppers) it will bring—it goes against the reasons for why the idea of a Common Station was included in the plans for the railway projects in the first place. The Common Station was meant as a singular hub that would connect MRT-3, LRT-1 and MRT-7 and allow Filipino commuters who will use the 3 railways a comfortable, safe and seamless travel from one railway line to the next (see Figure 2. SM Mall vs TrinoMa Mall Common Station Proposal). Apart from efficiency, the Common Station was proposed to create cost-savings for the government.
“We will suggest for just one common station in the middle, one exit to SM North EDSA and one exit to Trinoma. Through this, it will increase foot traffic in both malls. This is better instead of putting up 2 common stations wherein passengers will need to transfer from one common station to the other,” MPIC Chairman Manuel Pangilinan declared in a statement. MPIC and Ayala Corp., through its consortium Light Rail Manila, is set to construct the LRT- 1 Cavite Extension which is the project most affected by the Common Station issue. The P1.4-billion ($29.77-million) common station project has been bundled with the LRT-1 Cavite Extension deal which was awarded under the public-private-partnership (PPP) scheme in October 2014
The problem over the Common Station began in 2014 when the government insisted that putting up the proposed Common Station near Trinoma mall instead of SM North EDSA Mall would result in “P1 billion ($21.26 million) in savings to the government”. However, the government had already signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) in September 2009 with the SM Group that the Common Station would be built beside SM North EDSA mall. Under the MOA, the Philippine government through its implementing agency, the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA), agreed to interconnect the Light Rail Transit Line 1 and Metro Rail Transit Lines 3 and 7 through a common station in front of SM City North EDSA and name the station after the mall, in exchange for a grant of P200 million ($4.25 million) from the SM Group. The design of the Common Station near SM North ESDA Mall was even included in the project details of MRT-7.
The declaration of the government to unilaterally scrap the MOA with the SM Group at the back of the “P1 billion cost savings” and include in the LRT-1 Cavite Extension project details plans for a Common Station near Trinoma Mall instead of SM North EDSA mall, led to the filing of a lawsuit of SM Group against the government on June 3, 2014 and the subsequent hold order ruling from the Supreme Court on August 1, 2014.
According to SM Group, it was suing the government because it was "... in complete breach and disregard of the terms of the MOA, and without any official notice to SM Group despite the latter's repeated formal inquiries, the DOTC unilaterally relocated the station to Trinoma and made the same a mere component of the recently bid out LRT Line 1 Cavite Extension Project,” The TThe problem started when the government changed its mind on an agreement previously made with SM Group. SM Group further said that the proposed Common Station in front of SM North EDSA was duly approved by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Inter-agency Coordinating Council as a priority infrastructure project in 2007 and it was approved by the NEDA Board on July 7, 2009, thus, the project’s cost details would have already been reviewed, studied and deemed appropriate by the government prior to the signing of the MOA. The government cannot, on the back of another study conducted in May 2013 that shows that a possible relocation of the proposed Common Station to Trinoma would generate as much as P800 million to P1 billion in savings for the government, suddenly renege on its signed commitment with SM Group. The DOTC’s declaration came after the transition of government leadership wherein the new officials of DOTC under the Aquino administration decided to review all contracts made under the previous Macapagal-Arroyo administration.
The government back in May 2013 defended its decision to back off from the MOA with SM Group stating that it cannot in good faith push through with the project given the huge costsaving for the government and allow the Filipino taxpayers to carry the cost of an additional P1billion pesos. But now, it seems that the government has changed its mind again, as it is now pushing for a compromise agreement of building not one, but 2 stations, one in each mall – a compromise solution that would likely be more expensive than a singular Common Station. When the government could have just decided to stick to the original agreement with SM Group or if it insisted on the relocation, given back to SM Group the P200 million it paid with some compensation for their troubles. The issue over the Common Station has already resulted in 2-years of additional delay in the start of construction of 2 multi-billion pesos worth of badly needed railway projects the MRT-7 and the LRT-1 Cavite Extension. The wait on these vital railway projects, which would help ease traffic and the daily commute of Filipinos, has surely already cost the country more than the P1 billion it was hoping to save from the original 2009 Common Station proposal.
“We are finally ready to start construction," San Miguel Corp. (SMC) President and CEO Ramon S. Ang said during the groundbreaking ceremony of the much delayed MRT-7 railway project at the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City. SMC owns 51% stake in ULC, the project proponent for MRT-7.
MRT-7 is a combined 45-km of road and rail transportation project from Bocaue exit North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) to MRT3 at North Avenue-EDSA (see Figure 1. Project Map of MRT- 7) . The 22-km, 6-lane asphalt road will connect the NLEX to the major transportation hub development in Araneta-Colinas Verdes Subdivision, City of San Jose del Monte.
The 23-km, mostly elevated, MRT starts from Tala and ends at the integrated MRT 3/MRT7 station at EDSA near SM North EDSA Mall and Trinoma Mall. The rail component of the MRT-7 is envisioned to operate 108 rail cars in a 3-car train configuration.
The P69 -billion MRT-7 is expected to initially accommodate 350,000 passengers daily and shorten travel time from the current 3.5 hours on the road to 1 hour. The project is expected to undergo further upgrades after the start of its operations with the ultimate goal of accommodating 800,000 passengers per day.
The MRT-7 railway project, first conceived in the late 1980s as part of the seamless railway plan for Metro Manila, has had a colorful history before it has finally reached this point in time. The Wallace Business Forum (WBF) has been keenly following the developments in MRT-7 ever since ULC submitted an unsolicited proposal to the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) in 2002 (see Table 1. Timeline of Events of MRT-7).
Several challenges almost derailed the project including multiple changes made in the original project details (at least 15 revisions were done on the original proposal upon the request of the government), controversies over the application of Swiss Challenge to ULC’s unsolicited proposal, the delays in securing project funding, right-of-way (ROW) acquisition issues, etc. The MRT-7 project was also delayed by the change of government leader and a controversy over whether the common station should be built at SM North EDSA or at TriNoma.
As of May 2016, the issue of the common station remains unresolved. If the MRT-7 project had started on time as planned in its original 2002 proposal submitted by the ULC, Metro Manila would have had the 4th railway already working in 2006. As it is, the long-suffering commuters of Metro Manila would have to wait until 2020 to use the MRT-7.
A not so common, Common Station
It’s been 2 years since the SM Group sued the government over the issue of location of the common station for the 3 railway lines of MRT-3, LRT-1 and MRT-7. This issue alone resulted in delays for 2 major railway projects. Until now, the government is still unable to decide how to go about resolving it.
The latest suggestion to resolve the issue of the common station is the proposal of Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) that it will build an interim terminal within the “triangle of Trinoma (mall) and SM (mall)” in Quezon City. This “interim station” is code speak for a temporary infrastructure and is MPIC’s solution to finally get construction on the way for 2 of the pending railway projects affected by the common station issue – the MRT-7 and MPIC’s own project, the P64.9-billion ($1.38-billion) LRT1 Cavite Extension.
The MPIC suggestion comes after the Department of Transportation and Communication’s (DOTC) announcement that it will push for the construction of 2 stations instead of one as a solution to the long-standing issue of location for the Common Station—a cowardly compromise. Let’s hope the Duterte government will have the guts to declare only one, common station.
In a Senate hearing in November 2015, Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio A. Abaya said, when pressed for an explanation for the delays in MRT-7 construction, that the government is in talks with MRT-7’s project proponent, Universal LRT Corp. (ULC), for the funding of a station near SM North EDSA, while the government would fund the other station near Trinoma Mall. In effect, under the government’s proposal, 2 stations – one station that will connect MRT-7 to MRT-3 and another that will connect LRT-1 and MRT-3 – will be built, making the plans for a Common Station, no longer common. While the government’s solution is an obvious middle ground to the issue and would certainly appease the competing interests of 2 of the biggest malls in the area – SM Prime Holdings’ SM City North EDSA Mall and Ayala Corp.’s Trinoma Mall, both of which want the Common Station for the guaranteed foot traffic (e.g. shoppers) it will bring—it goes against the reasons for why the idea of a Common Station was included in the plans for the railway projects in the first place. The Common Station was meant as a singular hub that would connect MRT-3, LRT-1 and MRT-7 and allow Filipino commuters who will use the 3 railways a comfortable, safe and seamless travel from one railway line to the next (see Figure 2. SM Mall vs TrinoMa Mall Common Station Proposal). Apart from efficiency, the Common Station was proposed to create cost-savings for the government.
“We will suggest for just one common station in the middle, one exit to SM North EDSA and one exit to Trinoma. Through this, it will increase foot traffic in both malls. This is better instead of putting up 2 common stations wherein passengers will need to transfer from one common station to the other,” MPIC Chairman Manuel Pangilinan declared in a statement. MPIC and Ayala Corp., through its consortium Light Rail Manila, is set to construct the LRT- 1 Cavite Extension which is the project most affected by the Common Station issue. The P1.4-billion ($29.77-million) common station project has been bundled with the LRT-1 Cavite Extension deal which was awarded under the public-private-partnership (PPP) scheme in October 2014
The problem over the Common Station began in 2014 when the government insisted that putting up the proposed Common Station near Trinoma mall instead of SM North EDSA Mall would result in “P1 billion ($21.26 million) in savings to the government”. However, the government had already signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) in September 2009 with the SM Group that the Common Station would be built beside SM North EDSA mall. Under the MOA, the Philippine government through its implementing agency, the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA), agreed to interconnect the Light Rail Transit Line 1 and Metro Rail Transit Lines 3 and 7 through a common station in front of SM City North EDSA and name the station after the mall, in exchange for a grant of P200 million ($4.25 million) from the SM Group. The design of the Common Station near SM North ESDA Mall was even included in the project details of MRT-7.
The declaration of the government to unilaterally scrap the MOA with the SM Group at the back of the “P1 billion cost savings” and include in the LRT-1 Cavite Extension project details plans for a Common Station near Trinoma Mall instead of SM North EDSA mall, led to the filing of a lawsuit of SM Group against the government on June 3, 2014 and the subsequent hold order ruling from the Supreme Court on August 1, 2014.
According to SM Group, it was suing the government because it was "... in complete breach and disregard of the terms of the MOA, and without any official notice to SM Group despite the latter's repeated formal inquiries, the DOTC unilaterally relocated the station to Trinoma and made the same a mere component of the recently bid out LRT Line 1 Cavite Extension Project,” The TThe problem started when the government changed its mind on an agreement previously made with SM Group. SM Group further said that the proposed Common Station in front of SM North EDSA was duly approved by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Inter-agency Coordinating Council as a priority infrastructure project in 2007 and it was approved by the NEDA Board on July 7, 2009, thus, the project’s cost details would have already been reviewed, studied and deemed appropriate by the government prior to the signing of the MOA. The government cannot, on the back of another study conducted in May 2013 that shows that a possible relocation of the proposed Common Station to Trinoma would generate as much as P800 million to P1 billion in savings for the government, suddenly renege on its signed commitment with SM Group. The DOTC’s declaration came after the transition of government leadership wherein the new officials of DOTC under the Aquino administration decided to review all contracts made under the previous Macapagal-Arroyo administration.
The government back in May 2013 defended its decision to back off from the MOA with SM Group stating that it cannot in good faith push through with the project given the huge costsaving for the government and allow the Filipino taxpayers to carry the cost of an additional P1billion pesos. But now, it seems that the government has changed its mind again, as it is now pushing for a compromise agreement of building not one, but 2 stations, one in each mall – a compromise solution that would likely be more expensive than a singular Common Station. When the government could have just decided to stick to the original agreement with SM Group or if it insisted on the relocation, given back to SM Group the P200 million it paid with some compensation for their troubles. The issue over the Common Station has already resulted in 2-years of additional delay in the start of construction of 2 multi-billion pesos worth of badly needed railway projects the MRT-7 and the LRT-1 Cavite Extension. The wait on these vital railway projects, which would help ease traffic and the daily commute of Filipinos, has surely already cost the country more than the P1 billion it was hoping to save from the original 2009 Common Station proposal.
Wednesday, May 25, 2016
ABS-CBN Millennium Overture jingle
The ABS-CBN Millennium Overture Jingle is used as a background music for station message of ABS-CBN and radio DZMM voiced by Peter Musngi. It is been as a secondary jingle for the network.
Tuesday, May 24, 2016
Message of Pope Francis
“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy” (Mt 5:7)
Dear Young People,
Dear Young People,
We have come to the last stretch of our pilgrimage to Krakow, the place where we will celebrate the 31st World Youth Day next year in the month of July. We are being guided on this long and challenging path by Jesus’ words taken from the Sermon on the Mount. We began this journey in 2014 by meditating together on the first Beatitude: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Mt 5:3). The theme for 2015 was: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (Mt 5:8). During the year ahead, let us allow ourselves to be inspired by the words: “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy” (Mt 5:7).
1. The Jubilee of Mercy
With this theme, the Krakow 2016 WYD forms part of the Holy Year of Mercy and so becomes a Youth Jubilee at world level. It is not the first time that an international youth gathering has coincided with a Jubilee Year. Indeed, it was during the Holy Year of the Redemption (1983/1984) that Saint John Paul II first called on young people from around the world to come together on Palm Sunday. Then, during the Great Jubilee of the year 2000, over two million young people from around 165 countries gathered in Rome for the 15th World Youth Day. I am sure that the Youth Jubilee in Krakow will be, as on those two previous occasions, one of the high points of this Holy Year!
Perhaps some of you are asking: what is this Jubilee Year that is celebrated in the Church? The scriptural text of Leviticus 5 can help us to understand the meaning of a “jubilee” for the people of Israel. Every fifty years they heard the sounding of a trumpet (jobel) calling them (jobil) to celebrate a holy year as a time of reconciliation (jobal) for everyone. During that time they had to renew their good relations with God, with their neighbours and with creation, all in a spirit of gratuitousness. This fostered, among other things, debt forgiveness, special help for those who had fallen into poverty, an improvement in interpersonal relations and the freeing of slaves.
Jesus Christ came to proclaim and bring about the Lord’s everlasting time of grace. He brought good news to the poor, freedom to prisoners, sight to the blind and freedom to the oppressed (cf. Lk 4:18-19). In Jesus, and particularly in his Paschal Mystery, the deeper meaning of the jubilee is fully realized. When the Church proclaims a jubilee in the name of Christ, we are all invited to experience a wonderful time of grace. The Church must offer abundant signs of God’s presence and closeness, and reawaken in people’s hearts the ability to look to the essentials. In particular, this Holy Year of Mercy is “a time for the Church to rediscover the meaning of the mission entrusted to her by the Lord on the day of Easter: to be a sign and an instrument of the Father’s mercy” (Homily at First Vespers of Divine Mercy Sunday, 11 April 2015).
2. Merciful like the Father
The motto for this Extraordinary Jubilee is “Merciful like the Father” (cf. Misericordiae Vultus, 13). This fits in with the theme of the next WYD, so let us try to better understand the meaning of divine mercy.
The Old Testament uses various terms when it speaks about mercy. The most meaningful of these are hesed and rahamim. The first, when applied to God, expresses God’s unfailing fidelity to the Covenant with his people whom he loves and forgives for ever. The second, rahamim, which literally means “entrails”, can be translated as “heartfelt mercy”. This particularly brings to mind the maternal womb and helps us understand that God’s love for his people is like that of a mother for her child. That is how it is presented by the prophet Isaiah: “Can a mother forget her infant, be without tenderness for the child of her womb? Even should she forget, I will never forget you” (Is 49:15). Love of this kind involves making space for others within ourselves and being able to sympathize, suffer and rejoice with our neighbours.
The biblical concept of mercy also includes the tangible presence of love that is faithful, freely given and able to forgive. In the following passage from Hosea, we have a beautiful example of God’s love, which the prophet compares to that of a father for his child: “When Israel was a child I loved him; out of Egypt I called my son. The more I called them, the farther they went from me... Yet it was I who taught Ephraim to walk, who took them in my arms; I drew them with human cords, with bands of love; I fostered them like one who raises an infant to his cheeks... I stooped to feed my child” (Hos 11:1-4). Despite the child’s wrong attitude that deserves punishment, a father’s love is faithful. He always forgives his repentant children. We see here how forgiveness is always included in mercy. It is “not an abstract idea, but a concrete reality with which he reveals his love as of that of a father or a mother, moved to the very depths out of love for their child... It gushes forth from the depths naturally, full of tenderness and compassion, indulgence and mercy” (Misericordiae Vultus, 6).
The New Testament speaks to us of divine mercy (eleos) as a synthesis of the work that Jesus came to accomplish in the world in the name of the Father (cf. Mt 9:13). Our Lord’s mercy can be seen especially when he bends down to human misery and shows his compassion for those in need of understanding, healing and forgiveness. Everything in Jesus speaks of mercy. Indeed, he himself is mercy.
In Chapter 15 of Luke’s Gospel we find the three parables of mercy: the lost sheep, the lost coin and the parable of the prodigal son. In these three parables we are struck by God’s joy, the joy that God feels when he finds and forgives a sinner. Yes, it is God’s joy to forgive! This sums up the whole of the Gospel. “Each of us, each one of us, is that little lost lamb, the coin that was mislaid; each one of us is that son who has squandered his freedom on false idols, illusions of happiness, and has lost everything. But God does not forget us; the Father never abandons us. He is a patient Father, always waiting for us! He respects our freedom, but he remains faithful forever. And when we come back to him, he welcomes us like children into his house, for he never ceases, not for one instant, to wait for us with love. And his heart rejoices over every child who returns. He is celebrating because he is joy. God has this joy, when one of us sinners goes to him and asks his forgiveness” (Angelus, 15 September 2013).
God’s mercy is very real and we are all called to experience it firsthand. When I was seventeen years old, it happened one day that, as I was about to go out with friends, I decided to stop into a church first. I met a priest there who inspired great confidence, and I felt the desire to open my heart in Confession. That meeting changed my life! I discovered that when we open our hearts with humility and transparency, we can contemplate God’s mercy in a very concrete way. I felt certain that, in the person of that priest, God was already waiting for me even before I took the step of entering that church. We keep looking for God, but God is there before us, always looking for us, and he finds us first. Maybe one of you feels something weighing on your heart. You are thinking: I did this, I did that.... Do not be afraid! God is waiting for you! God is a Father and he is always waiting for us! It is so wonderful to feel the merciful embrace of the Father in the sacrament of Reconciliation, to discover that the confessional is a place of mercy, and to allow ourselves to be touched by the merciful love of the Lord who always forgives us!
You, dear young man, dear young woman, have you ever felt the gaze of everlasting love upon you, a gaze that looks beyond your sins, limitations and failings, and continues to have faith in you and to look upon your life with hope? Do you realize how precious you are to God, who has given you everything out of love? Saint Paul tells us that “God proves his love for us in that, while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom 5:8). Do we really understand the power of these words?
I know how much the WYD cross means to all of you. It was a gift from Saint John Paul II and has been with you at all your World Meetings since 1984. So many changes and real conversions have taken place in the lives of young people who have encountered this simple bare cross! Perhaps you have asked yourselves the question: what is the origin of the extraordinary power of the cross? Here is the answer: the cross is the most eloquent sign of God’s mercy! It tells us that the measure of God’s love for humanity is to love without measure! Through the cross we can touch God’s mercy and be touched by that mercy! Here I would recall the episode of the two thieves crucified beside Jesus. One of them is arrogant and does not admit that he is a sinner. He mocks the Lord. The other acknowledges that he has done wrong; he turns to the Lord saying: “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom”. Jesus looks at him with infinite mercy and replies: “Today you will be with me in Paradise” (cf. Lk 23:32, 39-43). With which of the two do we identify? Is it with the arrogant one who does not acknowledge his own mistakes? Or is it with the other, who accepts that he is in need of divine mercy and begs for it with all his heart? It is in the Lord, who gave his life for us on the cross, that we will always find that unconditional love which sees our lives as something good and always gives us the chance to start again.
3. The amazing joy of being instruments of God’s mercy
The Word of God teaches us that “it is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). That is why the fifth Beatitude declares that the merciful are blessed. We know that the Lord loved us first. But we will be truly blessed and happy only when we enter into the divine “logic” of gift and gracious love, when we discover that God has loved us infinitely in order to make us capable of loving like Him, without measure. Saint John says: “Beloved, let us love one another, because love is of God; everyone who loves is begotten by God and knows God. Whoever is without love does not know God, for God is love... In this is love: not that we have loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as expiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also must love one another” (1 Jn 4:7-11).
After this very brief summary of how the Lord bestows his mercy upon us, I would like to give you some suggestions on how we can be instruments of this mercy for others.
I think of the example of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati. He said, “Jesus pays me a visit every morning in Holy Communion, and I return the visit in the meagre way I know how, visiting the poor”. Pier Giorgio was a young man who understood what it means to have a merciful heart that responds to those most in need. He gave them far more than material goods. He gave himself by giving his time, his words and his capacity to listen. He served the poor very quietly and unassumingly. He truly did what the Gospel tells us: “When you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right is doing, so that your almsgiving may be secret” (Mt 6:3-4). Imagine that, on the day before his death when he was gravely ill, he was giving directions on how his friends in need should be helped. At his funeral, his family and friends were stunned by the presence of so many poor people unknown to them. They had been befriended and helped by the young Pier Giorgio.
I always like to link the Gospel Beatitudes with Matthew 25, where Jesus presents us with the works of mercy and tells us that we will be judged on them. I ask you, then, to rediscover the corporal works of mercy: to feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, welcome the stranger, assist the sick, visit the imprisoned and bury the dead. Nor should we overlook the spiritual works of mercy: to counsel the doubtful, teach the ignorant, admonish sinners, comfort the sorrowful, forgive offences, patiently bear with troublesome people and pray to God for the living and the dead. As you can see, mercy does not just imply being a “good person” nor is it mere sentimentality. It is the measure of our authenticity as disciples of Jesus, and of our credibility as Christians in today’s world.
If you want me to be very specific, I would suggest that for the first seven months of 2016 you choose a corporal and a spiritual work of mercy to practice each month. Find inspiration in the prayer of Saint Faustina, a humble apostle of Divine Mercy in our times:
“Help me, O Lord,
…that my eyes may be merciful, so that I will never be suspicious or judge by appearances, but always look for what is beautiful in my neighbours’ souls and be of help to them;
… that my ears may be merciful, so that I will be attentive to my neighbours’ needs, and not indifferent to their pains and complaints;
… that my tongue may be merciful, so that I will never speak badly of others, but have a word of comfort and forgiveness for all;
… that my hands may be merciful and full of good deeds;
… that my feet may be merciful, so that I will hasten to help my neighbour, despite my own fatigue and weariness;
… that my heart may be merciful, so that I myself will share in all the sufferings of my neighbour” (Diary, 163).
…that my eyes may be merciful, so that I will never be suspicious or judge by appearances, but always look for what is beautiful in my neighbours’ souls and be of help to them;
… that my ears may be merciful, so that I will be attentive to my neighbours’ needs, and not indifferent to their pains and complaints;
… that my tongue may be merciful, so that I will never speak badly of others, but have a word of comfort and forgiveness for all;
… that my hands may be merciful and full of good deeds;
… that my feet may be merciful, so that I will hasten to help my neighbour, despite my own fatigue and weariness;
… that my heart may be merciful, so that I myself will share in all the sufferings of my neighbour” (Diary, 163).
The Divine Mercy message is a very specific life plan because it involves action. One of the most obvious works of mercy, and perhaps the most difficult to put into practice, is to forgive those who have offended us, who have done us wrong or whom we consider to be enemies. “At times how hard it seems to forgive! And yet pardon is the instrument placed into our fragile hands to attain serenity of heart. To let go of anger, wrath, violence, and revenge are necessary conditions to living joyfully” (Misericordiae Vultus, 9).
I meet so many young people who say that they are tired of this world being so divided, with clashes between supporters of different factions and so many wars, in some of which religion is being used as justification for violence. We must ask the Lord to give us the grace to be merciful to those who do us wrong. Jesus on the cross prayed for those who had crucified him: “Father, forgive them, they know not what they do” (Lk 23:34). Mercy is the only way to overcome evil. Justice is necessary, very much so, but by itself it is not enough. Justice and mercy must go together. How I wish that we could join together in a chorus of prayer, from the depths of our hearts, to implore the Lord to have mercy on us and on the whole world!
4. Krakow is expecting us!
Only a few months are left before we meet in Poland. Krakow, the city of Saint John Paul II and Saint Faustina Kowalska, is waiting for us with open arms and hearts. I believe that Divine Providence led us to the decision to celebrate the Youth Jubilee in that city which was home to those two great apostles of mercy in our times. John Paul II realized that this is the time of mercy. At the start of his pontificate, he wrote the encyclical Dives in Misericordia. In the Holy Year 2000 he canonized Sister Faustina and instituted the Feast of Divine Mercy, which now takes place on the Second Sunday of Easter. In 2002 he personally inaugurated the Divine Mercy Shrine in Krakow and entrusted the world to Divine Mercy, in the desire that this message would reach all the peoples of the earth and fill their hearts with hope: “This spark needs to be lighted by the grace of God. This fire of mercy needs to be passed on to the world. In the mercy of God the world will find peace and mankind will find happiness!” (Homily at the Dedication of the Divine Mercy Shrine in Krakow, 17 August 2002).
Dear young people, at the Shrine in Krakow dedicated to the merciful Jesus, where he is depicted in the image venerated by the people of God, Jesus is waiting for you. He has confidence in you and is counting on you! He has so many things to say to each of you... Do not be afraid to look into his eyes, full of infinite love for you. Open yourselves to his merciful gaze, so ready to forgive all your sins. A look from him can change your lives and heal the wounds of your souls. His eyes can quench the thirst that dwells deep in your young hearts, a thirst for love, for peace, for joy and for true happiness. Come to Him and do not be afraid! Come to him and say from the depths of your hearts: “Jesus, I trust in You!”. Let yourselves be touched by his boundless mercy, so that in turn you may become apostles of mercy by your actions, words and prayers in our world, wounded by selfishness, hatred and so much despair.
Carry with you the flame of Christ’s merciful love – as Saint John Paul II said – in every sphere of your daily life and to the very ends of the earth. In this mission, I am with you with my encouragement and prayers. I entrust all of you to Mary, Mother of Mercy, for this last stretch of the journey of spiritual preparation for the next WYD in Krakow. I bless all of you from my heart.
From the Vatican, 15 August 2015
Solemnity of the Assumption of the B.V. Mary
Solemnity of the Assumption of the B.V. Mary
Symbols of WYD in the Archdiocese of Krakow
On May 20 in the Archdiocese of Krakow, the pilgrimage of Symbols of WYD – the Cross and the Icon of Our Lady Salus Populi Romani – will begin, and will last until the events of WYD themselves.
The pilgrimage of the WYD Symbols will be begun by a ceremonial inauguration on May 20 in the Sanctuary of St. John Paul II in Krakow. The symbols will be brought by young people from the Greek Catholic Cathedral in Przemyśl. The symbols will be brought to the sanctuary, where at 5:00pm a solemn Holy Mass will begin during which Card. Stanisław Dziwisz will preach the homily.
On May 21 the Symbols of WYD will be brought to the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy in Łagiewniki. The symbols will be present during the official “For us and for the whole world” retreats before WYD.
“This month the retreat will begin unusually early so that there would be time for a short introduction, so that at 4:30pm the symbols would be brought to the Basilica,” says Fr. Paweł Mielecki from the Department of Pastoral Care of the OC WYD Krakow 2016.
During the pilgrimage the symbols will visit 45 deaneries, around 200 churches and chapels, 50 schools, over a dozen hospitals, as well as prisons and correctional centers in the whole Archdiocese. They will also be present during the time of the evangelizational concert in the Market Square that will take place on May 25. Young people from various communities will carry them during the time of the traditional Corpus Christi procession from Wawel to the Market Square.
The symbols have accompanied young people since 1983, when Holy Father John Paul II offered them to young people on the occasion of the inauguration of the Holy Year Jubilee of Redemption. From this time the Symbols of WYD have pilgrimaged around the whole world.
“The symbols were present in many places around the whole world, which emphasizes the universal character of the pilgrimage,” explains Fr. Paweł Mielecki. “Now these same symbols will come to us. At the beginning they will be in significant places like the Sanctuary of St. John Paul II, and later will visit even small parishes, churches, communities, schools. An important aspect of the pilgrimage is that the Symbols arrive also to those places where people for objective reasons cannot go to church to pray, and so to hospitals, prisons, correctional facilities and seniors homes,” explains Fr. Paweł.
In accordance with tradition, the host diocese of the events of WYD is the last place of the pilgrimage. The pilgrimage began already on April 2014. The symbols visited in turn almost all the dioceses of Poland as well as neighbouring nations: Belarus, Lithuania, Latvia, Russia, Ukraine, Moldovia, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic.
The pilgrimage will last until July 25. In the time of the week of the main events of WYD the symbols will be accessible to pilgrims in the Adoration tent found in Jordan Park (next the Krakow’s Błonia, between Al. 3 Maja, Reymana street and Reymonta street). They will also be present at all celebrations in Błonia and Campus Misericoridae.
Priest and Bishop Registration for WYD is Ongoing
Registration of priests and bishops for WYD is still ongoing. The events of World Youth Day will involve many priests and bishops fulfilling the work of ministry, and not only those from Poland, but from the whole world who will come to Krakow either with groups or themselves. Besides participating in the Eucharist, priests will minister in confessionals, while many bishops will be engaged in leading catecheses for pilgrims.
The organizers are directing invitations to priests to help with priestly ministry – giving out Holy Communion during Mass at Błonia and Campus Misericordiae and ministering communion in the Reconciliation Zone.
“In the Year of Mercy the sacrament of confession bears a special meaning, and so we ask priests to take on ministry in confessionals in the Valley of Mercy in Łagiewniki, in Jordan Park or in St. Mary’s Basilica. We sincerely welcome priests to take on this ministry which Pope Francis asked for, the ministry of reconciling with God, the sacrament of Divine Mercy,” said Fr. Andrzej Wołpiuk, coordinator of the Registration Section of the OC WYD Krakow 2016.
We are expecting that in the events of WYD, around 15 thousand priests will take part. “There were around 14 thousand priests who took part in WYD in Madrid. We are thinking about a similar number at WYD in Krakow,” adds Fr. Wołpiuk.
Registration of priests will last, like in the case of that of pilgrims – until the end of June.
Registration of bishops is taking place through a special registration module. In the first phase there is need to fill out a document on paper – you can download and print it from the registration system (HERE). Bishops from abroad send a filled out document to the Pontifical Council for the Laity, whereas Bishops from Poland send it to the Organizing Committee of WYD. There data entered into the system creates an account, where the bishop or his secretary can finish filling out a registration form.
“It is worth remembering that bishops perform an additional role – in many cases they will be involved in leading catecheses, which will be conducted in around 280 places,” said Fr. Wołpiuk.
Zofia Świerczyńska
The organizers are directing invitations to priests to help with priestly ministry – giving out Holy Communion during Mass at Błonia and Campus Misericordiae and ministering communion in the Reconciliation Zone.
“In the Year of Mercy the sacrament of confession bears a special meaning, and so we ask priests to take on ministry in confessionals in the Valley of Mercy in Łagiewniki, in Jordan Park or in St. Mary’s Basilica. We sincerely welcome priests to take on this ministry which Pope Francis asked for, the ministry of reconciling with God, the sacrament of Divine Mercy,” said Fr. Andrzej Wołpiuk, coordinator of the Registration Section of the OC WYD Krakow 2016.
We are expecting that in the events of WYD, around 15 thousand priests will take part. “There were around 14 thousand priests who took part in WYD in Madrid. We are thinking about a similar number at WYD in Krakow,” adds Fr. Wołpiuk.
Registration of priests will last, like in the case of that of pilgrims – until the end of June.
Registration of bishops is taking place through a special registration module. In the first phase there is need to fill out a document on paper – you can download and print it from the registration system (HERE). Bishops from abroad send a filled out document to the Pontifical Council for the Laity, whereas Bishops from Poland send it to the Organizing Committee of WYD. There data entered into the system creates an account, where the bishop or his secretary can finish filling out a registration form.
“It is worth remembering that bishops perform an additional role – in many cases they will be involved in leading catecheses, which will be conducted in around 280 places,” said Fr. Wołpiuk.
Zofia Świerczyńska
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