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Hindi Na Bale - Bugoy Drilon

The world under the sea

Manila Ocean Park (MOP) is the country’s first water themed park and an educational urban resort destination. It’s where the best of both worlds, oversea and undersea, converge with sounds, lights, special effects and surprise treats come together to create a “world of wonders.”

It is home to the biggest oceanarium where over 20 varieties of marine creatures from around 300 species indigenous to the Philippines and Southeast Asia. A walk through the specially designed aquariums will leave one spell-bound on the beauty of marine life.

“Now, something spectacular is about to change in this part of the bay area!” Armi Ruby Marie Cortes, MOP VP for sales and marketing, said as she revealed the forthcoming unveiling of Aquatica where water park fun, up-close marine life interaction and a multi-sensory musicale will be a regular fare.

In the afternoon, a marine life show will ensue where people get to experience face-to-face interaction with marine animals performing tricks. Pepito Maligaya, assistant operations manager, said “Everyone will treasure the experience and will be awestruck by the marine animal’s intelligence and charm.”

Come dawn, Manila’s first ever multi-sensory extravaganza set in the sea will enthrall everybody.

“For the first time in Manila, Maiden of the Sea brings you a mesmerizing show with a live cast in full costumes backed by a dramatic multimedia effects of pyrotechnics, brilliant lasers, special computer imaging, synchronized water jets some reaching highs of 40 meters, flaming bursts and captivating music all in a breathtaking choreography! It’s going to be a one-of-a-kind nightly musicale extravaganza for all ages,” Cortes beamed.

The place will also be the occasional venue for other performing arts like dance and concerts.

King Of Convenience

Super fruits for your health

From the column of Willie T. Ong, MD "MIND YOUR BODY" published in The Philippine Star

Here’s my list for the healthiest and locally-available fruits. Enjoy these super fruits for your health.

1. Banana. The banana is nature’s wonder fruit and the perfect fast food. Why is this fruit so healthy? Because it’s rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and folic acid. Its high potassium content prevents cramps and gives instant energy with its easily digestible starch. Its potassium content is also perfect for patients on water pills (diuretics), those with heart disease and high blood pressure.

A medium-sized banana has 95 calories, more than an apple but less than a mango. Bananas are also the perfect antacid, coating the stomach and preventing stomach ulcers. Their high vitamin B6 also helps women suffering from premenstrual syndrome.

In The Healthy Food Directory by Michael Van Straten, the author ranks bananas near the top because bananas help alleviate 14 medical conditions including diarrhea, fatigue, heartburn, insomnia, nausea, menstrual problems, kidney problems, fluid retention, and circulatory problems. The doctor-recommended BRAT diet for patients with diarrhea stands for banana, rice, apple, and tea.

2. Apples. The Mayo Clinic ranks apples as one of the world’s healthiest fruits. Apples are an excellent source of pectin, which is a soluble fiber that can lower blood cholesterol and sugar levels. Pectin also binds with heavy metals like lead and mercury, and helps the body eliminate these pollutants. Fresh apples are also good sources of vitamin C, an antioxidant that protects your body cells from damage. Apples can help prevent constipation, arthritis, gout, gastroenteritis, and diarrhea. Apples are an excellent diet food — only 47 calories in an apple. Even the smell of an apple has a calming effect. Apple pie, apple juice, fresh apples are all great.

3. Citrus fruits like oranges, calamansi, suha (pomelo), dalandan, and lemon. The overflowing amounts of vitamin C in citrus fruits are the reason for their high ranking. Locally, we have calamansi, suha, and dalandan. Oranges and lemons are splendid, too, but are more costly. Vitamin C may alleviate inflammatory conditions like asthma, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. It also protects the heart and boosts the immune system. That’s why it’s good for preventing colds.

Citrus fruits contain a fair amount of folate and potassium. Folate lowers homocysteine levels in the body and may reduce heart disease. The potassium in citrus fruits helps to lower blood pressure, too. All citrus fruits contain fiber, especially in the membranes separating the sections. For that reason, when you eat a fresh orange or grapefruit, it is always best to try to eat a bit of the white membrane around the juicy sections of the fruit.

4. Strawberries. Strawberries are believed to help fight cancer, gout, arthritis, and anemia. Strawberries contain high amounts of vitamin C, as well as iron, fiber, and pectin. They also contain powerful antioxidants, which may help prevent cancer and heart disease. New evidence suggests that strawberries may have anti-viral properties, too. It is best eaten fresh and ripe.

5. Papayas. Thanks to the Spaniards who introduced them to Manila in the sixteenth century, papayas are now grown throughout the country. Like other orange-colored fruits, papayas contain large amounts of beta-carotene (a precursor of vitamin A) and vitamin C. Hence, they are good for the skin and the immune system. Papayas also contain papain, an enzyme that helps in digestion. For people who are constipated, eating papayas every day can help regulate their bowel movement.

6. Grapes. Grapes contain important ingredients such as tannins, flavonoids, and anthocyanins. These chemicals are believed to give grapes their anti-cancer properties. Grapes are beneficial for those recuperating from an illness, and those who have anemia and fatigue. In fact, during Mahatma Gandhi’s long fasts, he would drink grape juice to keep his strength up. For those on a diet, limit your intake to seven pieces of grapes per meal. And since grapes are sprayed in the fields, be sure to wash them carefully in running water before eating.

7. Watermelon and melon. Melons have long been used by traditional medicine as a cure for kidney and bladder problems. Melons are rich in potassium and vitamin C. During hot weather, melon drinks are especially soothing and refreshing for the body. They can also help those with mild constipation.

8. Coconuts. Dr. Conrado Dayrit’s book The Truth About Coconut Oil lists several health benefits of virgin coconut oil — treating bacterial infection, fungal diseases such as ringworm, and even HIV-AIDS. Dr. Dayrit lists a number of case studies that show VCO’s beneficial effects for heart disease, diabetes, and boosting one’s immunity.

Coconut water, on the other hand, is good for kidney stones and cleansing one’s digestive tract. Coconut water is low in carbohydrates, low in sugar, and serves as an isotonic beverage, which means it’s good for replenishing the body.

9. Avocados. Avocados are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, which means it is useful in preventing heart disease and stroke. Avocados also contain potassium, vitamin B6, and vitamin E. These vitamins can help relieve stress and beautify the skin. Avocado’s ingredients can stimulate the production of collagen, which can help prevent wrinkles and smoothen one’s skin. Avocados may also relieve symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Because avocados are easily digestible, they can be given to elderly and bedridden patients.

10. Pineapple. Pineapple contains the unique enzyme bromelain, which may help in digestion and reducing inflammation in the body. Pineapples are excellent sources of manganese and vitamin B, which give the body energy. The high vitamin C content also helps in strengthening one’s immune system. Each cup of pineapple contains 75 calories.

11. Nuts. Though not exactly a fruit, nuts are considered nutritional superfoods, packed with protein, minerals, and fats. Yes, they’re fatty but don’t worry, the fats found in nuts are the good fats — monounsaturated and polyunsaturated. Instead of eating junk foods reeking with unhealthy saturated fats (like potato chips and doughnuts), nuts can help reduce your bad cholesterol (LDL) while raising good cholesterol (HDL). Nuts also contain vitamin E, a potent antioxidant. And above all, nuts are good for the brain. They may indeed make you smarter.

Locally, we have nilagang mani (boiled peanuts) and cashew nuts. But take note that eating too much nuts (it’s so addicting) can make you fat, around 150 calories per ounce. Ouch! Eat a handful, not a bowlful.

And so, this hot summer, remember to drink eight to 10 glasses of water a day and consume more of these super fruits.

"The Sight of Love" - The Camerawalls feat. Sarah Gaugler

Nokia X6

There’s no room for being a little touchy-feely here, unless you are talking about Nokia’s latest and greatest music player, the Nokia X6. An awesome touchscreen device so beautiful it’s meant to be touched, the Nokia X6 lets you rediscover new use for your fingers in ways you never dreamed possible.

Go crazy with content, as the Nokia X6 becomes your ultimate platform for serious fun. For the music lovers, get your ultimate fill of one of the hottest R&B divas with Nokia’s Come Get Rihanna application.

Download three Rihanna songs from her latest album Rated R, namely “Russian Roulette,” “Wait Your Turn” and “Hole in My Head” through the Universal Music Group (UMG) voucher that comes with the new Nokia X6. But wait, there’s more—up to 2,000 tracks are also available for download from Universal Music’s library.

As an ultimate music device, the Nokia X6 makes it easy for listeners to access their favorite music, and through Nokia’s Independent Artists Club (IAC), they can download the freshest indie tracks through the MusicMix application free to all Nokia X6 users through the Ovi Store.

There are also loads of other applications from the Ovi Store, plus your fill of the most exciting game content to hit the mobile phone platform. From music to games and everything in between, the X6 will become the gateway to your personal multi-media playground.

Babe I Love You Official Trailer

Turning real into reel By Bong R. Osorio (The Philippine Star)

With presidential fora being staged left and right and countless reports on the election coming out in both traditional and new media, we might think we have seen or heard enough to decide who to vote for in the May national elections — that is, until ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC) aired last Sunday a special on amBisyon2010, a film project involving 20 of the most influential and talented filmmakers in the country today.

The group includes Cannes Film Festival winners Raymond Red and Brillante Mendoza, directors Erik Matti and Jeffrey Jeturian, and indie scene luminaries Ditsi Carolino and Ellen Ramos. Completing this “dream team” in cinema are notable filmmakers Emman Dela Cruz, Kiri Dalena, Henry Frejas, Jade Castro, Jon Red, Jerrold Tarog, John Torres, and Paolo Villaluna, plus six promising young directors in Aissa Peñafiel, Gym Lumbera, Jerome Reyes, Sunshine Matutina, McRobert Nacario and Pam Miras.

Getting all these filmmakers together was itself a great achievement, but the goal of the project was an even bigger ambition. By producing four- to eight-minute short films on different national issues such as health, economy, environment, justice and human rights, amBisyon2010 aims to show Filipinos the real state of the nation, to turn real into reel, and urge people to action. By presenting these pressing issues in a creative manner, ANC hopes it will be easier for the public to understand them.

Through a simulcast on ANC and ABS-CBN, televiewers got a sneak peek at the 20 short films of amBisyon2010. Directors displayed their own distinct styles — some chose a narrative approach, some opted for a documentary format, while others transported viewers to a totally different dimension with their surreal takes on the issues. Each one was different, and each one was brave and spot on.

Jerrold Tarog’s piece on education was the opening salvo of the special. It focused on two friends working in a private university, one working for the school administration, while the other is a faculty member who is forced to resign after one of her students gets hurt in a rally. In a confrontation, their clashing ideologies cause a crack in their friendship that moves the viewer to ask which is right — to remain silent and be safe, or to fight the system that oppresses?

Another stirring piece is Kiri Dalena’s take on the Maguindanao Massacre, which begins with a sound bite from one of the victims’ wife. There are no bloody or dead bodies shown in the film, but it truly evokes pain and regret with film footage shown backwards, as though the crime is being undone.

Jeffrey Jeturian’s film on the economy directly hits the government by following the lifespan of a newspaper with a headline screaming about the economic growth in the country. As the newspaper travels from one person to another, Jeturian projects the deprivation that continues to haunt Filipinos given their lowly jobs and depressing living conditions.

Dante Mendoza uncharacteristically shows a more positive tone in his film — a music video featuring young undiscovered talents he met in the slums. The song speaks about all the good things in the country, while the video ironically shows everything that’s not. Unmistakably, Mendoza’s intention was to hit two birds with one stone — illustrate what is happening and at the same time explain what he desires to happen to the country.

The films, which are far from any of the movies the country’s biggest film outfits have produced in the past years, come as a breath of fresh air. Watching the clips brought back memories of the second golden age of Philippine Cinema in the ‘70s, when directors like Lino Brocka, Ishmael Bernal, Mike De Leon, and Peque Gallaga roused awareness and nationalism with socially-relevant films.

The directors tastefully brought in the rawness and realness of independent filmmaking to capture the realities in society — hunger, lack of a proper health care system, corruption and security, among others.

These are exactly the issues that people need to consider before they vote in the 2010 elections. We need to be shocked. We need to be enlightened. We need to be aware so we can put into office the right person to lead us.

And through ANC’s epic collaboration with 20 filmmakers in “amBisyon2010,” hopefully, we also find the need to ask ourselves, what is our ambition for the country, and what should we do to achieve it?

“AmBisyon2010” will have an exclusive theater screening on April 6, followed by a five-part television premier on ANC starting April 10 on SKYCABLE channel 27. E-mail bongosorio@yahoo.com or bong_osorio@abs-cbn.com for comments, questions and suggestions. Thank you for communicating.

A new challenge for Paolo By Maridol Rañoa-Bismark (The Philippine Star)

Paolo Bediones has reached the point of no return. He’s done with hosting beauty pageants, a job where he has been the go-see guy for the past many years. After bidding GMA 7 good-bye, Paolo is tackling a job he has never dreamed he’d be doing someday.He’s turning TV5 news anchor and will conceptualize shows and develop talents for his new home network.

It’s time to move on, and move up.

“It’s time for me to pass the baton (in hosting beauty pageants) to whoever,” he says.

His new job requires Paolo to do much more than interviewing beauty queen wannabes at an average of 20 to 25 pageants a year.

It demands that he see the big picture — where the industry is, where it’s headed for, what it needs. And he swears it couldn’t have come at a better time.

“My career (in GMA 7) was a hybrid,” he recalls. “I was not a reporter, not a newscaster. I was not a singer, not actor. When singers and actors started to host shows, lumiit ang mundo ko.”

He started asking himself, “Five years from now, will I be waiting for the next (TV) franchise, hoping they will give it to me?”

The answer, as we all know by now, is a big no. Along came the TV5 offer, no longer as host. The offer was for the juicy posts of main news anchor and program executive rolled into one.

It’s something Paolo never thought of, even in his wildest dreams, especially when he was still with GMA 7. But it’s there, about to happen before his very eyes.

A few weeks from now, Paolo will take a bow as anchor of TV5’s news programs with the just-as-seasoned Cheryl Cosim.

It’s an exciting first for the debuting news anchor.

“It’s a step up,” relates Paolo. “And it’s my top priority. This is a first in my 12 years in the broadcast industry.”

That’s why Paolo wants to hit the ground running.

“I’m taking a crash course on what it takes to be a journalist from Ma’am Luchi (Cruz-Valdez), head of TV5’s News and Public Affairs Department. I have to learn how to write news reports, although I’ve been doing this already,” reveals the eager student.

Paolo is also soaking up on the ABCs of investigative reporting in his new show, USI (Under Special Investigation), which premieres last Sunday, March 14, on TV5 and airs every Sunday thereafter

USI is a one-hour program that puts a controversial person under the magnifying lens. Paolo makes the program his own by giving it that reality show flavor.

Thus, the pilot episode will see its two guests — presidential bets Dick Gordon and JC delos Reyes, doing what people haven’t seen them do so far. Paolo asked Gordon, a Red Cross volunteer, to take his blood pressure and tell him what his blood type is.

Delos Reyes, on the other hand, will go to an Olongapo nightclub where he has never been before, and discuss his plans before the sweet painted ladies he meets there.

The mere thought of following paper trails for USI makes Paolo’s day.

What’s much more fun, though, is giving deserving fellow TV workers that much-needed break.

Now that he calls the shots, Paolo enjoys giving what he calls “diamonds in the rough,” on and off cam, the chance to join the network and grow with it.

“I audition singers and hosts,” he relates. “We’ll be getting a lot of talents. Ang daming fresh graduates ngayon. If they want a shot (at the job), we’ll give it to them. You have to start somewhere, you know.”

If this makes other networks fear TV5 will pirate their talents, Paolo will take it with the widest smile he can give.

This only means networks are learning to value their talents more.

He would love to see contractual workers getting regular jobs; new talents getting the attention they deserve.

“My heart belongs to fellow industry workers who deserve to be protected,” says Paolo.

He doesn’t care how many years it will take for his dream of seeing TV5 standing head-to-head with the industry’s giants to come true. At the end of the day, longevity counts more.

“Look at the products of reality shows these days,” he points out. “After three months or one season, you find out that they can’t sing, dance and host. They entered the reality show as contenders, not as hosts, singers or actors. Walang training, walang (talent) development.”

Yes, he signed a three-year contract with TV5. But he knows he may be spending those three years just planting the seeds that will make the station grow into an industry giant. He can’t tell when he will reap the fruits of his labor.

“I aim to professionalize the industry,” he declares. One way is by going back to tradition, where the script, not ad-libbing was king.

“Why did a fantastic sitcom like Abangan ang Susunod na Kabanata die even if it had good acting, writing and directing? Because people threw scripts away in favor of adlibs,” he observes.

TV5, Paolo vows, will return to the way things used to be on TV and introduce technology to make the shows more accessible.

“We’re entering a new age on TV,” he observes.

Paolo knows it’s exciting, but it will be an uphill climb. He’s willing to start the climb, even if it takes him a long time to reach the peak. At 36 come March 17, he found the best birthday gift ever, and a calling he’s willing to turn his life around for.

Surfing With A Grumbling Tummy?

It's late at night and you are hungry. If you just want a Big Mac and nothing else, you could now enjoy it via McDonald's delivery.

Now, there are no more minimum food purchase orders at McDelivery. Whether you're ordering your McDonald's favorites for yourself or an army, the delivery charge is fixed at only Php 40. No more 10% delivery fee.

Big Mac or small fries, no order's too tall. There's only one number to call 24/7: 8-McDO (or 8-6236) or log on to www.mcdelivery.com.ph.

McDelivery 24/7 is starting this off in the following areas: Metro Manila; Antipolo; San Pedro, Laguna; Laguna Bel-Air; Tarlac; Lipa, Batangas; Cebu and Davao.

Any order, McDonald's delivers.

Free Internet Marketing Business Course

Just Visit this site -----> http://onlinemarketingdegreecanada.blogspot.com/

Globe launches first all-in P10 prepaid load By Mary Ann Ll. Reyes (The Philippine Star)

Globe Telecom has launched another first with its P10 prepaid load for Globe, Globe Tattoo and TM customers that can be used for call, text and Internet services.

The P10 Tingi Load is now sold in easy-to-use and secure scratch cards at various on-the-go channels such as jeepneys and buses, fastfoods and eateries, street vendors, train stations, and practically anywhere out on the road.

The first of its kind in the country, the Globe/TM/ Tattoo P10 Tingi Load makes it truly convenient for customers to top up wherever they go as Globe brings them this new reloading option.

“We are proud to launch the P10 Tingi Load that not only offers customers a very affordable load denomination but also makes reload ubiquitous. You can buy it in a jeepney on your way home, from the fishball or cigarette vendor you meet along the streets everyday,” Globe chief marketing officer Menchi Orlina said.

“It is very easy to use. Just scratch off the protective film and use your Tattoo mobile phone to key in the PIN, and you’re all set. This innovative way to do reload is a product of our customer first policy in Globe. We really want to give our subscribers more convenient and affordable choices for them to stay Globe-connected.”

This innovative Globe offer also empowers the marginalized sector of the community like the tingi and street vendors by giving them added income opportunities, the Globe official pointed out.

Launched early this month, the P10 Tingi Load can be purchased from public transport drivers, selected restaurants, transport stations and also from individuals. The load is valid for three days after the initial use.

The P10 Peso Tingi Load card is exclusively available for Globe Tattoo, Globe Prepaid and TM users.

Scroll And Spin 2 Congratulates Manny Pacquiao

....for defending his title against Joshua Clottey

GMA 7 educates voters (The Philippine Star)

GMA News and Public Affairs mounted an on-ground information dissemination event last March 7 at the Music Hall of SM Mall of Asia.

The first part was a public demonstration of automated election procedures. A mock voting precinct, complete with voting areas/desks, ballot secrecy folders, mock ballots, and PCOS machines, was set up. The goal was to familiarize the public with the new step-by-step procedure for casting votes. Flyers on proper voting procedures based on Section 35 of COMELEC Resolution No. 8739 were distributed.

There was also a short onstage program where representatives of COMELEC and the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting answered questions from the public on the voting procedure.

The next part of the voters education event was a flash mob dance presentation featuring Sexbomb and 500 other dancers, which was broadcast live on GMA 7.

The song Bilog na Hugis Itlog, featuring the Sexbomb Dancers, was produced to aid in voters’ education. The music video, which airs on GMA, is in support of the Voters’ Education of COMELEC.

Meet the Ultimate Talentado By Ver Paulino (The Philippine Star)

Thirteen-year-old Joshua “Yoyo Tricker“ Davis of Quezon City was declared First Ultimate Talentado when he bested eight finalists in the Talentadong Pinoy grand finals last Saturday. Joshua won P1-M.

Cuneta Astrodome was filled with tension as the show concluded its first finals night titled Battle of the Champions. Seven Hall of Famers who had been defending champions for five consecutive weeks and one wildcard finalist who won the audience’s sympathy vied for the title The Ultimate Talentado: Leah Patricio, Far East Acrobatatic Gutierrez Family, Juancho “Wanlu” Lunaria, Tribal Dancers, Omar the Ladder Balancer, Ferdinand “Makata Tawanan” Clemente, Joshua “Yoyo Tricker” Davis and Jackielyn Pinazo.

Guest performers were Kuh Ledesma, Gloc9, Luke Mijares, Regine Tolentino, Shall We Dance host Lucy Torres Gomez and Bamboo.

The grand finals special jury was composed of director Joey Reyes, Joey de Leon, Judy Ann Santos, Ruffa Gutierrez, Alessandra de Rossi and Audie Gemora. The show was hosted by Ryan Agoncillo.

Roxanne happily 'expecting' taken from Directline By Boy Abunda

Roxanne Guinoo and Angelo, her Chinese-Filipino boyfriend, are getting married early next year. Angelo is 20 years old and comes from a conservative, hardworking, well-off family. Roxanne met him through a common friend. They have been together for nearly three years. There have been so many positive changes in her life ever since she and Angelo went steady. “Marami siyang naitama sa buhay ko. Mas nabibigyan ko ng halaga ang work, sarili at pamilya ko.”

Roxanne is now 12 weeks pregnant. She came to know that she was pregnant during the last week of January. The pregnancy was not planned, and she and Angelo consider the baby a blessing. “We don’t consider this as a big mistake. Itong batang ito ang magsisimbulo ng pagsasama namin until the end of time.”

She was crying, scared but happy when she learned that she was pregnant. “Masaya at masarap ang pakiramdam. Kaya ko pala gumawa ng baby that I will be proud of.”

Since she is already pregnant, Roxanne didn’t expect Angelo to propose marriage. But she was in for a big surprise. Angelo brought her to the garden of his house with all the lights off. When they turned on the lights, she was shocked to see a cake with a proposal that says, “will you marry me”. Roxanne said, it was at this moment when she felt she was very important to Angelo. She also showed me her sparkling diamond engagement ring.

Roxanne denied that she had an abortion; that her mother (who cried when she learned of Roxanne’s pregnancy) asked for a house and lot. “We have a house and lot even before I entered showbiz. At may sariling negosyo po ang pamilya namin,” she declared. She will not be leaving showbiz even after she marries.

Babies are always lucky and Roxanne is a lucky girl.

To Read More: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=555934&publicationSubCategoryId=70

Simulan Na Natin - Kenyo

Jing Castañeda tells it like it is By Gypsy Baldovino (The Philippine Star)

Capable, committed, clear on purpose. These words best describe Jing Castañeda, new anchor of ANC and The Filipino Channel’s Balitang Middle East.

Jing and Henry Omaga-Diaz dissect the conditions in the Middle East and how they affect the lives of overseas Filipino workers and their families, every week.

With a decade-long experience in news reporting on ANC, DZMM and ABS-CBN, Jing occupies a stellar post in Balitang Middle East.

Jing made waves in September 2007 through her ground-breaking exposé on the multimillion-dollar ZTE-NBN scandal that rocked the establishment and damaged the friendships of some of the country’s most influential personages.

One particular assignment, however, brought to the fore her purpose in news reporting.

It was November 2004. Jing recalls, “I was two months pregnant -- though I didn’t know it then — when we went to Real, Quezon to cover the worst landslides that hit the province due to typhoons Winnie and Yoyong.

“Nasira ang mga tulay at kalsada daan-daang mga bangkay ang nakahilera sa kalye, mga gym at mga eskuwelahan. Then, someone tipped us that a building collapsed in Bgy. Tigaon and many residents were believed to be buried. So, we decided to investigate and braved the eight-hour walk to reach the site.

“Totoo nga. Gumuho nga yung Reparador building. On Dec. 9, and 10th day of the rescue effort, four people were found still alive underneath the rubble,” Jing relates.

To this day, Jing couldn’t forget the words of a miner, who said he volunteered for that mission after seeing her report on the collapsed building.

“Yun lang naman ang dahilan kaya ako narito,” she admits. “Yung makatulong.”

She found her niche in Balitang Middle East, where she intends to focus more on public service. “I see it as the heart of the program,” she says.

Asked how she manages to be composed in reporting emotionally-charged incidents such as the Tigaon tragedy, she states: “Because I’m not the story.”

In other words, she is here to tell the truth with a capital T.

She says, “One of the biggest challenges for journalists is to make sure that learned skills go hand in hand with the right values. Your upbringing, your background, the value system of the people around you — all these come into play in molding your concept of what’s right and wrong as a journalist.

“Our batch in ABS-CBN is very lucky our news heads, Maria Ressa for TV and Peter Musngi for DZMM give such a premium on ethics. It is important to have mentors who will help you sift through the gray areas and inspire you to remain on the principled path.”

Before working for ABS-CBN, Jing was a production/research coordinator on news and documentaries of ABS Network, New York, USA.

After finishing her Bachelor of Arts degree from Ateneo de Manila University, she studied Broadcasting in New York University, and finished her master’s degree in Business Administration, also from Ateneo.

Aside from Balitang Middle East, Jing serves as news anchor for the hourly news updates of ABS-CBN Channel 2 and Radyo Patrol Balita of DZMM Teleradyo.

Joey De Leon's Experience in Radio

And now, you would probably ask who the hell is Mang Damian. Well, ito lang ang masasabi namin ni Julie — Hell is alive with the sound of Mang Damian’s voice and his attacks. Ganito kasi ‘yan — When I was with ABS-CBN in the late ’60s and the early ’70s, a memorable part of my job then as a radio announcer for station DZAQ, which eventually became the Radyo Patrol station, was doing the Disclaimer Spiels for the hard-hitting, table-banging and fearless commentator of all commentators in the history of radio in the Philippines. He was the first and real Comentirador — Damian Soto.

During that period, Damian Soto had the “license to kill” and call his targets on air with labels like Ulol and Tarantado. I think he and his vocabulary were already colorful even before the advent of color television in the country.

By the way, Station Disclaimers are “Pilatic” messages from the management voiced before and after commentary programs; ‘Yung tipong “labas kami d’yan kahit anong mangyari.” I could still recall by heart the spiels:

“Ang susunod/katatapos ay isang bayad na palatuntunan. Ang lahat ng kuru-kuro at pala-palagay na inyong maririnig/narinig ay pawang sa tagapagsalita lamang at walang kinalaman ang himpilang ito.”

Government officials and heads of companies had high respect for Mang Damian, but the erring and notorious personalities were afraid of him. His being warrior-like was legendary because he challenged his foes to face him — or dared them to ambush and kill him. He would even give them his whereabouts. Matapang talaga.

From Tondo, where he owned about 50 calesas. He traveled to the Bohol Station in his stainless jeep with just his driver. I would later learn from someone in the studio that he was actually carrying a high-caliber automatic firearm under the seat of his jeep. Ano, bale? “Grease gun” pa nga yata. But I never had the chance to ask him about its veracity.

As fierce as he was fiery on the air, Mang Damian was always a Jekyll and Hyde case. He transforms into a sweet and gentle person when not on board. He would always use “opo” and “oho” whenever he talked to anybody — including me. Apo na n’ya ako, pero s’ya pa ang namumupo.

I also remember that once in a while, he would sheepishly and secretly slip a multi-folded 20-peso bill into my hand, which until now, I never knew what it was for. Teka, parang nakita ko na ‘to sa isang kandidato this year ah. Siguro pambili ko ng tinapay. Joke.

I would also like to believe that I was the first one in ABS-CBN to hear and learn about the possible declaration of Martial Law. This information came from Mang Damian.

One afternoon in September of 1972, Mang Damian entered our booth, arriving earlier than usual. He seemed tired and somewhat worried. I casually asked what was bothering him and he said, “Galing ako sa Malacañang… Nag-usap kami ni Ferdie sa kusina. Pinag-aayos ko silang dalawa ni Nanding (Lopez).”

“Ferdie? Si Mako?” I asked. Bilib na bilib ako. I quickly followed, “O bakit ho?”

He bowed and slowly shook his head and I will never forget his exact words — “Medyo magulo… Baka mag-deklara si Ferdie ng Lei Marcial.”

Before I could ask further, I noticed that it was already time for me to give the Disclaimer for his program.

A few days later, Martial Law was declared.

To Read More: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=555680&publicationSubCategoryId=70

Tignan Mo - The Chongkeys

Tuyo Ng Damdamin - APO

Arnold tackles issues fair & square by Bot Glorioso (The Philippine Star)

Who’s not familiar with Arnold Clavio?

He greets your mornings with the latest news on GMA 7’s Unang Hirit. At 10 a.m. weekdays on DZBB, he tackles issues and enlightens listeners on matters concerning the nation. He also deals with unsolved crimes Thursday nights in Case Unclosed. And just when you’re ready to hit the sack, Arnold with Vicky Morales caps the day with hard-hitting stories that everyone needs to know in Saksi.

That’s not all. Arnold is at all times in the front line during political fora for Pinoys to be informed about politics, the politicians involved, and other topics in the political arena. He tackles every discussion in a non-partisan way, always living up to the Kapuso slogan of Walang Kinikilingan, Walang Pinoprotektahan, Serbisyong Totoo lamang.

“By presenting issues on TV and radio, we get the people’s reaction and learn things they want to know. I become an instrument to ask questions they feel need answers.”

And now that election time is getting nearer, Arnold takes part in educating the electorate through Kandidato, a GMA News and Public Affairs 45-minute series featuring presidential aspirants that airs Wednesdays beginning tonight after Saksi.

“There are a lot of interesting and revealing information about presidentiables that you will learn from the show. You’ll see who is the most focused, well-prepared and who doesn’t know what to answer,” offers Arnold.

Televiewers will see one presidential aspirant per episode treated as job applicants where they have to answer questions from three panelists composed of Arnold, Malou Mangahas of Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism and Howie Severino. The questions are divided into three categories — easy, average and difficult. Each question, which will be based on every candidate’s platform, and controversies where he is involved and key issues, must be answered within 30 seconds.

“That’s where they feel the pressure. But you’ll be impressed how each candidate looks at certain issues. They also know about figures and economic percentage. So far, those we have already interviewed during tapings showed they have prepared.”

Arnold says every question to be raised aims to give a clear view of the candidates’ stand. Questions in the difficult round are about controversies and are well-researched. The Ateneo School of Law helps determine if the questions are fair, too general or need to be more direct.

Even Arnold simplifies a question in layman’s terms every time he feels it won’t be interesting to viewers or is too technical. The show also airs a two-minute video about each candidate.

Asked if he sees himself joining politics someday, Arnold says as a media practitioner he is able to help those who come to him. His IGAN Foundation is aimed at the good of others. His daughter who graduated from Ateneo is also involved in the foundation.

“I will remain a Kapuso,” he says, shedding light on the rumor that he will jump ship.

With his busy schedule, is there any time left to rest and spend a day for his family?

“Yes. I take power naps between shows and I have a half way house with my family,” replies Arnold.

Watch This & You Will Be Amazed!!! ;-)

Unang Tikim - Kamikazee

I Miss You Like Crazy - Aiza Seguerra Version

Best 'Feet' Forward

By Phillip Cu-Unjieng (The Philippine Star)

Against the backdrop of our recent history, and with a curious fascination for feet and footwear, Unitel’s The Red Shoes is a poignant, polished film
that revolves around a love story of yearning, and a swirling family saga that intelligently fuses local color with stirring revelations, and plot twists and turns. It seems to be the kind of film that’s earmarked for mainstream success abroad; skillfully executed and well thought out, it can serve as Contemporary Philippine History 101, while keeping the viewer enthralled via the love story and the opposing family background of our main protagonists. It may not be our breakthrough Slumdog, but it’s certainly a foot in the door, and a step in the right direction.

Directed by Raul Jorolan, and written by James Ladioray, the film opens with 10-year-old Lucas relating how his father (Domingo/Tirso Cruz III) was one of the fatalities of the Film Center construction disaster, and how when the Revolution came, he was one of those who stormed Malacañang and stole a pair of Imelda’s shoes, giving a shoe each to the two women in his life — his manicurista mother, Chat (Liza Lorena), and childhood crush Bettina, the daughter of one of his mother’s high society customers. We then fast forward to Lucas (Marvin Agustin) today, earning a living as a “wedding videographer,” and still in love with Bettina (Nikki Gil), a physiotherapist.

Told in “chapters” that are highlighted by the women who have played a part in the life of Lucas (and with humor, noting their shoe color preferences), the film moves through flashbacks and vignettes, to an understanding of what it means to be Filipino in this day and age — the confusion, the hoping despite odds, the surrender and stoic attitude to life and fate, and the constant reviving of faith in a happy resolution. Rather than mere caricatures, the women that dot the landscape of Lucas’ life are full characters, each sharing that same mix of getting on with life, while hoping and dreaming, and each will have her own version and set of circumstances.

Scene-stealing is Tessie Tomas as Madame Vange, Imelda-impersonator and professed psychic/medium. When she is approached by Chat to make contact with the presumed-dead Domingo, it’s the promise of the pair of genuine Imelda shoes that hilariously convinces her to accept the offer. And the film is truly a fine example of ensemble acting, with Tetchie Agbayani, Monica Llamas, and Iwa Moto all given their chance to essay their characters as people we recognize, or have encountered in our own lives.

Foreshadowing is one of the dramatic devices effectively used in this film, and it was a joy to notice that as the film played out. The Red Shoes is indeed a very polished “pair of shoes,” and to my eye, tailor-made for an audience abroad. Overseas Filipinos will love bringing their foreigner-friends to it, it‘s an effective “small story” played against the large canvas of our national heritage, customs, beliefs and idiosyncrasies.

'We need a strategy for El Niño'

By Dulce Sanchez (The Philippine Star)

The head of an international crop research institute is calling on the Philippines and other countries affected by drought to “go on a war footing” to cope with the El Niño weather phenomenon and climate change.

Dr. William Dar, director general of the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), said several crises – aside from drought – confront global agriculture today.

“Warming temperatures, floods, increasing land degradation, rising food prices, zooming energy demand and population explosion are creating extreme challenges to feed the world. We can avert this potential ‘climaggedon’ through a strong political will and collective action by the global community,” he said.

Dar said there is a need for a long-term strategy to deal with climate change and El Niño rather than simply taking reactive measures.

He said there is a need for institutional mechanisms to develop and implement a strategy of “adaptation and mitigation for our farmers to surmount climate change and the continuing onslaught of El Niño.”

Dar said the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pag-asa) estimates that there would be a 40 to 60 percent reduction in rainfall that will last until June, and the Department of Agriculture projects that this could cut rice production by 816,372 tons worth P12.24 billion.

He also said the areas hardest hit by the drought are Cagayan and Isabela which are major producers of rice.

He added that the production of other crops like corn, sugar cane, vegetables and other agricultural products will also be severely affected.

Harness science vs drought

Dar said ICRISAT recommends a science-based approach.

He said farmers should grow drought-tolerant crops to “match the available length of the growing season and low soil moisture.” He said ICRISAT has introduced several improved varieties of sorghum, pigeonpea, chickpea and peanut that are more drought-tolerant than currently grown varieties. The DA and local government units, in cooperation with the farmers, should map out a contingency plan to replace affected crops with more drought-tolerant varieties.

Dar said the DA should also put in place an action plan to produce seeds of dryland and alternate crops.

He said there should be ways to have the community participate in harvesting water in the rainy season, arresting land degradation and conserving soil moisture, and for growing improved crops in soils conserved through natural methods.

Dar said the national government and LGUs should formulate policies supportive of dryland agriculture as well as establish institutional mechanisms for credit, market linkages, rural infrastructure and other support services.

“Scientists predict that the dry lands will expand by 11 percent, and we will experience increased frequency and severity of droughts and heavy rainfall events across the globe,” he said.

He said it is important for the country to immediately map out and implement a long-term strategy to cope with El Niño and climate change.

Dar said the government should have sustained investments on water conservation and management and dry land agricultural research.

“Beyond the provision of deep well pumps, the construction of water harvesting structures must be pursued on a war footing,” he said.

He recommends that the government establish a Philippine Dryland Research Institute (PhilDRI), whose creation was proposed by Rep. Leonardo Montemayor in the 14th Congress through House Bill 6752.

“PhilDRI will be the country’s first line of defense against drought and climate change. Likewise, PhilDRI will substantially contribute to poverty alleviation by generating and mobilizing science and technology to improve the livelihoods of poor communities in the drylands,” Dar said.