Best & Worst of 2008

As 2008 comes to a close, it's time to recognize those "who's who" and the "newsmakers" in Bohol who had us talking all year long. It's good news for some (like those who finally got their heads on straight) and bad news for others (like those who just can't seem to learn their lessons). Take a trip through the last 12 months and join us as we honor the "who's who" and the "newsmakers" who thrived - and shaked our heads at those who took a nosedive.

2008 saw the high incidents of "suicides" in Bohol. Six incidents, by any mean violent, happened in Bohol in Nov. and claimed the lives of eight persons. Four of the eight fatalities died as suicides in as many cases and in as many places. The rest died - with two each, of drowning and gun shots.

By the way, we love "who's who" breakups! It's not that we always wish the worst for Bohol's who's who and newsmakers; it's just that we love good gossip. some breakups can be devastating, while others couldn't make us smile more. We don't like being sad, we know it'll be better for them in the long run!

Best Sportsman: Nonito Donaire, the "Filipino Flash". The 26 year-old Talibon born captured our hearts and fueled our spirit as he punched his way into the history books. On February 16, 2008, Donaire received the Philipines Sports Award for 2007 Athlete of the Year, alongside amateur swimmer Miguel Molina. Amongst the list of nominees were Manny Pacquiao, Ronnie Alcano, WEsley So, and Frankie Minoza. On November 2, 2008, he retained his International Boxing FEderation Flyweight world title via a 6th-round (1:31) technical knockout of Moruti Mithalane.

Loser of the Year: Rey " Boom Boom" Bautista. We expect much for him after touted as the next Pacman. Though Bautista defended and won on August 30, 2008, Bautista (26 wins, 1 loss with 18 KO's) annihilated Mexican Eden "Anestecista" Marquez vist technical knockout in the 1:08 mark of the 2nd round of 12-rouner "WBO Night of Champions" in Waterfront Cebu City Hotel to retain his WBO Intercontinental super bantam title, he lost on November 22, 2008, Bautista (2602, 19 KOs) was vanquished at the MGM Grand Las Vegas by Heriberto Ruiz ( 40-7-2, 23 KOs)in Round 3 with scored, 80-70, 78-72 and 77-73.

Best Ongoing Feud: Tagbilaran City mayor Dan Neri Lim vs Vice Mayor Toto Veloso, Djingo RAma, Batchoy Alba, Bohol Chronicle. Who could believe that best friends Mayor Dan Lim and BAtchoy Alba and Djingo RAma are worst enemies? The world is still in an uproar over this feud for years utilizing the media to express what they want. Lim retaliated by going on the record with his own program to say that he thought these people (Veloso, Batchoy, Rama and Chronicle) were extermely "uncool". something tells us this feud will continue next year.

Worst Blabbermouth: Benjie Oliva never seems to learn his lesson. He hogged the "limelight" of so many controversies as a Commissioner of the National Youth Commission (NYC), how he was "scolded" by Gov. Erico Aumentado when he asked for endorsement and how Rep. Roberto Cajes "reacted" over his "claimed" on youth projects. We're not saying we're not happy for him - we just don't want him about it anymore.

Best Gossip: City hall Cash Advances. We have to admit - we just didn't see it coming. Just when the world couldn't stop talking about the cash advances at the City Hall, and broadcasters dropped the bobmshell the unliquidated cash advances. Byt the time acting city accountant Kurt Bungabong could not reveal who're those having the accounts, we managed to catch our breath - but just barely.

2nd Runner Up: The accusation that the Bohol Standard has no Mayor's permit and is illegitimate to publish municipal ordinances. According to lawyer Aleckoy Lim, "it is grossly malicious as it is without basis."

Best Scandal: City Minority Kagawad Djingo Rama exploded a bombshell in the halls of SP on Nov. 7, 2008 utilizing the 2007 COA REport that calls into question City Mayor Dan Neri Lim and his adminsitration for the multi-million fund mess.

2nd runner up: Benjie Oliva's falsification of public documents. he could face criminal action for fabrication official public documents issuance of a bogus and falisified DILG memorandum circular numbered MC 2007-03 dated January 11,2008 and forgoing a signature of DILG SEcretary Ronaldo Puno. SK sought the non-renewal of Oliva's appointment into the Commission because of "incompetance, dishonesty and disloyalty".

3rd runner up: The blogspot against University of Bohol stirred everyon in late September. meetings were held and efforts were made to remove the hate blog focusing against the Pamarans.

4th runner up: The public clamors for the city accountant and city auditor to reveal the complete list of cash advances by city officials and employees amounting to P6.5 million that remain unliquidated as exposed in the 2007 Commission on Audit Report. This as city acocuntant Kurt Bungabong and city auditor Teresita Irig rejected the request of Tagbilaran City Vice Mayor Jose Antonio Veloso to release the details of the unliquidated cash advances.

5th runner up : The loos of cooperative funds amounting to more than P2 million. The coop mess also caught the attention of Board Members Josephine Socorro Jumamoy, chair of the committee on cooperatives of the Sangguiniang Panlalawigan. According to the BPRMO admin costs are not really illegal and what happened was merely a procedural flaw.

Slap of the Year : The Supremet Court has affirmed the disqualification of Alburquerque Mayor Jose Ugdoracion who was found holding a "green card" or a certificate indicating his being a permanent resident of the United States. Ugdoracion is ordered unseated from his post as mayor in Associate Justice Eduardo Nachura's 12-page decision.

1st runner up: Mayor Jimmy Torrefranca. He was barred from entering the LTO office due to a dress code that is enforced on all clients as the LTO is its quest for international standard.

Best Turnaround: Mary Lovely Lingones. What a turnaround Lovely Ligones has made: from a shy girl into a beauty queen and model. She won the Miss Tagbilaran 2006 crown but lost in the Miss Bohol Sandugo 2008 despite the rumor she would get the crown. This girl is able to prove and sundry that she can make it in a national limelight as she won the October monthly finals of Miss Fitrum on ABS-CBN's Wowowee.

Worst Issue: Drainage system. Tagbilaran City residents expressed alarm on the impending serious problem of the city's drainage system. Water discharged at the new drainage system includes wastes from the more than 30 establishments and homes which authorities failed to unplug while the project was still in progress. This is adding volume and pollutants to what was originally designed to accommodate rain water to the drainage system along CPG Avenue.

1st runner up: Agora Square: After 14 years of being an eyesore in the city's commercial district, the Agora Market is finally competed into a new City Square. The Agora contract "stinks corruption". Three lawyers pushed for the cancelation of the rehabilitation-operate and transfer (ROT) contract entered into by the consortium of develo9ment and for the city government as it appears disadvantageous to the city government.

2nd runner up: The Small Town Lottery (STL) pushed by 3rd district Rep. Adam Relson Jala. The Church through Bishop Leonardo Medroso is firm on its stand in disallowing the entry of STL in Bohol. Legalizing gambling does not take away its immoral nature and that even with its gallant intentions it still does not lower the fact that it would cause illnesses to these people who resort to gambling as they would only depend on winning their bets and take chances on mere luck.

3rd runner-up: Our cute brothers, the tarsiers become stressed (others are found to have an infection that led to the bleeding) and the P50 entrance fee collected by the LBU Loboc.

4th runner-up: Tagbilaran Cainget Beach coliform issue. Bathers need not to worry because the DOH just recently said that Cainget Beach is coliform-free.

Best Couple: Brigido and Rosemarie Imboy. Wemay not see a lot of photos of Brigido and Rosemarie schmoozing on parties or posing together for souvenir shoots - but maybe that's their secret. Rosemarie removed the "rights" that Brigido can own a cellphone, you know, not to establish to all the girls he loved before. The couple continued to keep their relationship out of the "limelight" as much as possible.

Worst Couple: Cortes Mayor Apolinaria "Jasmin" Balistoy hogged the "limelight" as she broke her silence as a battered wife in a true-to-life story involving domestic violence, verbal abuse and kidnapping. The ogject of Mayor Balistoy's complaint was her hsuband of 15 years. The marriage was blessed with four children. Citing as her last resort to escape from the violent tantrums of her husband Mayor Balistoy filed a case for violence against women in accordance iwth SEction 42 of Republic Act No. 4660 with a given address at Canmanico, Valencia town, the mayor's husband, Jose Balistoy, was supposed to be served a subpoena regarding the case.

Case of the Year: Dumaluan Rape Case. The DOJ dismissed with finality the charges of rape with homicide against former Panglao Mayor Doloreich Dumaluan, brother Teofredo and another accused of the rape and murder of Vivian Dumaluan sometime in May 2004.

Worst Tragedy: More than 59 Boholanos were reported missing after the sinking of the Princess of the Stars in September. The captain of the vessel was a Boholano, Florencio Marimon, Sr., who was also found dead.

Best Hit-Maker: Tubigon's Mary Grace Torreon belted REgine Velasquez' versin of "I Don't WAnna Miss A Thing" which won for her the SK Pop Idol award. On the other hand, Jesat Cathy duce, SK Pop Idol 2006 is still singing. Paloma captured foreigners and tourists with her dance and moves. She is the caretaker of Prony, the biggest python in captivity in Albur. Though she performs lip-synch, we love how she projects herself as a snake and her booty calls.

Oldest Miss Bohol Sandugo:Miss Catigbian Joy Marie Maglajos won the most-coveted Miss Bohol Sandugo 2008 crown, she was the oldest among the candidtates who is 23 years old.

Miracle of the Year: A Christ statue ( the Santo Entierro or HOly Internment ) in Panggangan, Calape was found bleeding in March. Some skeptics see the bleeding Christ a flying Science. In Baclayon Church, the image of Padre Pio, an Italian priest miraculously appeared in one of its walls sometime in September.

Splitsville! 2008 definitely takes the cake of many splitsville! A councilor and his wife (who works in the government), the photographer and HR wife shaking marriage, a government employee and a Capitol department head, a lawyer and a plain housewife ( who was blamed for the death of their son), a company owner who found a new love ( the split resulted into family trouble), a doctor and a sickly husband, etc. These once-happy couples called it quits in '08.

Newest Nuptials. We watched lovebirds tie the knot this year. Today is Vida May Tirol's wedding.

In Momoriam. We pay tribute to the who's who - like Mrs. Charing Dejaresco - who passed away this year. She;s the Bohol media matriarch. The Darunday matiriarch Abundia Darunday, former Panglao Mayor Araoarao and Amparo Uy also joined our Creator.

*******

I don't usually make New Year's resolution though I see New Year as God's gift for me to start anew and become a better me. And for this New Year, here's my prayer: " Lord grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.

My Wishlist

Oh, it's four days before Christmas. Let us spread warmth, love and peace anyway we can. Together, we can try to make our world a little less hostile, a little more caring, and, much, much happier. While celebrating the Holidays, here's a Christmas message from US Ambassador Kristie Kenney (who fell in love with Bohol the first time she visited our province): Season's greetings to all in Bohol! Christmas brings friends and families together making this a very special time of the year. It's a time to remember how blessed we are, the wonderful friendships Americans and Filipinos share, the family connections we have, and the great partnership our two countries enjoy.

Here's to a peaceful and prosperous New Year for Bohol, for the Philippines and for all. Malipayong Pasko ug Bulahang Bag-ong Tuig!

***

O Holy Night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of the dear Saviour's birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining.
Till He appeared and the Spirit felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices!
O night divine, the night when Christ was born;
O night, O Holy Night , O night divine!
O night, O Holy Night , O night divine!

Led by the light of faith serenely beaming,
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.
O'er the world a star is sweetly gleaming,
Now come the wisemen from out of the Orient land.
The King of kings lay thus lowly manger;
In all our trials born to be our friends.
He knows our need, our weakness is no stranger,
Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!
Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!

Truly He taught us to love one another,
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains he shall break, for the slave is our brother.
And in his name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
With all our hearts we praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we,
His power and glory ever more proclaim!
His power and glory ever more proclaim!

That song, O Holy Night (written by Placide Cappeau de Roquemaure in 1847) is one of my favorite Christmas songs which never fails turn me misty-eyed! The song encapsulates the memories of so many Christmases and tells us God's love and Jesus, the only begotten Son.


Christmas time definitely is a time for making wishes and having happy thoughts and then when it gets to January we all get the January blues and forget about all the nice hopes and dreams and happiness we had on that magical day! Sound like a child but Christmas really is magical and hopefully Santa is reading my special wishes for myself, others and for the world I would like this Christmas!!


I've lots of wishes this Christmas. For material things: Asus laptop with an Illustrazio laptop bag, more pair of Havaianas, a Jansport backpack for traveling, gym registration (Hahaha!! I badly need this!!) and a shopping spree!!! This list is not complete and I thank you to those who are already packing their gifts for me.


More than the material things, I'd like to share the words of Oren Arnold: Christmas gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect.

What's your wish this Christmas?


Four days before Christmas and here's my own list of gifts to my favorite who's who in Bohol.


For Mayor Jose Jono Jumamoy (the youngest mayor in the Philippines): Beautiful (as much as possible sexy and seductive) girlfriend, it's lonely at the top. You know, to spice his lovelife. Same for Mayor Niño Rey Boniel, Rep. Adam Relson Jala and PPDO head John Titus Vistal.


For Jane Censoria Cajes: Strength to continue her mission for the youth. More travels abroad and a lovelife!


For broadcaster Chito Visarra: More radio programs and to quote the song, "Dear Lord up above me; send someone to love me..." Same for veteran broadcaster Fred Araneta.


For Katrina Schoof: Weeks of vacation with her labidab in Australia. Also a marriage contract!


For Bohol Chronicle big boss Peter Dejaresco: Good health and success. To quote Kit Bagaipo: May his days be merry and bright! Same for Lito Responte.

For Glenn Mark Blasquez: To finish his masteral degree, more progressive in business and woman who will love her forever and ever, amen! (Love me tender, love me dearly...)

For couple Hans and Lani Schoof: Good health, prosperity and more years so that they can continue to share their blessings.

For Lyndon Boiser: A round-trip ticket to a quiet place far from the maddening false friends.

For Mayor Dan Neri Lim: Again, peace pipes he should smoke with Vice Mayor Toto Veloso and his friend Former OIC Governor Victor dela Serna.

For Mutya Isabel, Joan Almedilla and Mayumi Lugod: More shows and success.


For broadcasters Batchoy Alba, Fred Ticong, Fred Amora, Salva Diputado, Boy Guingguing, Ted Ayeng: A silencer that will prevent them from flaunting on radio and newspapers on issues this Christmas time. They can do it again after the Holidays!


For Mikey Gatal: A partner who doesn't, ahem, "double-cross" after some years of searching!


For Baba Yap: Wedding bells, wedding bells! I think he's found the love of his life. Same for young business tycoons Ron Tan and RG Ong.


Mary Lovely Ligones: Miss Fitrum, girl! Stay fit and beautiful!


For Reps. Edgar Chatto and Roberto Cajes: A New Year (and more years) full of hope and goodwill. Same for provincial administrator Tommy Abapo, Romy Teruel, Ae Damalerio, Handel Lagunay, Rene Relampagos, Vice Gov. Julius Cesar Herrera, and adoptive daughters of Bohol Bea Zobel, Jr and US Ambassador Kenny.


For Raymund Roldan: Visibility and success in the business circle. Same for Uly Dolojol of OopsBar and Dennis Du.


For Gerry Lugod: Inner strength, peace and colorful lovelife! Same for Eden Descalar, and for Donald Fuertes, a hot "partner" to love him dearly!


For Direk Maryo de los Reyes: More award-winning movies! Same for Rebecca Lusterio: Another movie and trophy for her memorably moving performance in two movies, a classic example of highly-effective "natural" acting…and same to Rich Asuncion.


For Loboc Children's Choir: Another performance abroad minus the "virus" of the group.


For Mayor Thomas Gonzaga: Beautiful girlfriend to color his "dry" lovelife.


For Pureza Chatto: Success in business, good health and peace of mind to be able to continue doing life's work. Same for Mayor Judith del Rosario-Cajes, board members Ma. Fe Lejos, Conching Lim, Maly Tirol, Roygie Jumamoy, Aster Piollo, and Vicky Wallace.


For Maximiel: Wise judgment and guidance that success is at the horizon. And a show (hopefully, another international limelight). Same for Gardy Labad, Loy Palapos and Marianito Luspo.


For Leah Tirol-Magno: Love, patience and time (non-material) and something to eat or keep (material). More ASUS EeePC 8GB mininotebook! Same for Mike Ligalig.


Councilor Kit Oppus: Inner strength and good health as the only woman lawmaker in the city! Same for Gov. Erico Aumentado and Maam Greenie, June Blanco, Vice Mayor Toto Veloso, Bonnie Quriog, Baby Collins, Sonieta Labasan, Mike Veloso, Betty Veloso-Garcia, Fiel Gabin and Rose Soy.


SSupt Edgardo Ingking: Patience and courage as chief. Go, Sir!

For Councilor Edgar Kapirig and Deputy Mayor Mario Uy: Again, a peace pipe to be smoked with Edgar on one end and Mario on the other. (Uhu, uhu, uhu!!!)


For Zenaida Darunday: Good health and inner strength to continue her advocacy!


For Raul Gatal: More mega projects in hosting and a colorful lovelife! Same for Ardy Batoy and Gloria Araneta.


For Brownbuds, Suitcase101 and Centerstage: More gigs and albums.


For Anna Maris Igpit: A marriage contract.


For Dr. Gerry Egos: Success in business and more, more pets!


For Primitiva Ontong: Beautiful and no-stress life in fiscal managing! More vibrant year ahead! Same for Liza Quirog and Liezel Gregorio.


For John Torralba: House and lot! And a wife!


For Paloma (caretaker of Prony): More performances and languages to learn! Same for the phenomenal Inday Rufing, more, more laughs to knock down the house!


For Baby Tagoctoc: Success in business, peace and harmony. Same for Tracy Remolador Torres and Charloe Arbasto.


For Rey Boom-Boom Bautista: A heart to teach him and his parents that "charity begins at home. Strength and success in bouts. Same for boxing idols AJ Banal and Nonito Donaire.


For Caesar Amonsot: He will get well soon... years of "rest" makes him weak. Go, fight!

For Joy Maglajos: A marriage proposal from her boyfriend.

What's up?---------------

The tallest and biggest Santa Claus in Bohol (also in the whole country) is in Poblacion, Sierra Bullones. It measures 30 feet (or more) and is located in front of the newly constructed municipal hall.


Host: What are the thoughts you can share for this coming Christmas?
Guest: We must do even more to love God, forgive the sinners and do god to other and we have to avoid grevious sin! (Grevious sin?)

Could it be a blue Christmas for a photographer and a HR head? It pains me to learn that the sugary sweetness between a photographer and his beautiful HR wife is, alas, turning sour. When last heard from, the wife "scolded" the photographer and "accused" him of playing "fire" with the secretary. The HR wife asked her hubby-photographer to choose "to fire the secretary or leave." Since the hubby photographer could not fire the secretary this Holidays, when he went home, all his things are already packed outside the house! It seems that they are helplessly headed for splitsville! We hope they can iron things out, patching whatever loopholes here and there. How sad!

Side A at Bohol Tropics Dec. 19

You were just a dream that I once knew
I never thought I would be right for you
I just can't compare you with anything in this world
You're all I need to be forevermore
All those years
I long to hold you in my arms
I've been dreaming of you every night
I've been watching all the stars that fall down
Wishing you will be mine…

Okay, all together now, let’s sing the hit song Forevermore as we anticipate the arrival of its singer, Side A, which is having a concert on Friday, Dec. 19 at the Dagohoy Ballroom Sandugo of the Bohol Tropics (after MYMP and Kim Chiu performed on July 19 and other big performers).

“Side A will do what they do best — endear themselves to the Boholano audience by singing the soundtrack of our lives. It is a once-in-a-lifetime treat for musical lovers out there,” says Donald Fuertes, the event manager/sales and marketing of the Lazer Party Club. By the way, Donald is also the talent handler of the Models Unlimited.

It is expected to be a full house as tickets sold briskly weeks after the concert event had been announced.

Considered the country’s top-selling artists, Side A band boasts of a wide selection of hits—from new wave, love ballads, retroes, to originals.

Side A is one of the most popular bands in the country. They were considered equivalent to Toto as The Eraserheads to The Beatles. They were accepted by the mainstream proven by their hit records, sold-out concerts and recognitions they have received. Being true to themselves, their music and their fans was the secret of the band’s success.

The band was formed on 1985 in Manila, Philippines by Naldy Gonzales and a former member. They performed in several gigs in hotel lounges with their innocuous, easy listening style that reflected the tastes of the masses though the city were developing a new wave/punk scene.

Side A is composed of Joey Generoso (lead vocals and acoustic guitars), Joey Benin (bass guitar and vocals), Naldy Gonzales (keyboards and vocals), Ernie Severino (drums and vocals) and LeeVon Cailao (lead guitar and vocals). They popularized the songs Hold On, Tuloy Pa Rin Ako, Eva Marie, Forevermore, I Believe in Dreams, Let The Pain Remain and Set You Free.

This is perhaps the last concert of Joey Benin or Joey B. for short, the youngest of the band. According to a showbiz insider, he is retiring to settle here in Bohol to concentrate in a farm business. Joey B. joined the band on 1986 and played the bass ever since. His looks and voice melted the hearts of the females and was responsible of the bands stardom with his single “Eva Marie.”

Pop/RnB band Centerstage of Lazer Party Club will serve as frontact in the said pre-Christmas concert.

(Note: Ticket price is only P300, and for reservation, contact Donald Fuertes at 09173276888/411-2529.)

What’s up--------------------------------------------------
• Could it be true that a former high ranking official in the province “forcefully” grabbed his wife (who’s also a politician in a nearby town) when the invited singer (the Kilabot ng mga Colegiala who is known for his antics) praised the wife (saying “I love you, Maam!”)? Out of jealousy (perhaps), the hubby “vigorously” grabbed the wife who was then smiling to the singer. The preying eyes of the public were in awe and that “scene” remains the talk-of-town until now!

• Who will be Bohol’s Man and Woman of the Year? What Bohol’s Event of the Year? Send your nominations thru email leoudtohan@gmail.com or thru text at 09212446791. You may include your reasons why they are to be selected.

• Watch your favorite movie for free! Get a chance to watch your favorite movie this Christmas courtesy of the Island City Mall (ICM) by completing the following sentence: “My most unforgettable Christmas __________.” Five of the most creative answers will be chosen this week. Send your entries via email: leoudtohan@gmail.com or you can send it thru text at 09212446791. Please include your complete name, address and contact number. Names of the winners will be published here on Bared next Sunday. The contest is open to Bohol residents only. ICM Screenville Cinema is the most modern cinema outside Metro Manila. It has the first superior Dolby Digital Surround-Ex in Bohol. It has also a relaxing and comfortable fabric seats and state of the art film protection. So, what are you waiting for? Join now!

• It's the time of the year to celebrate Christmas with fellow Boholanos in California! The Tagbilaran Association of Northern California, Inc. (Tasci) Christmas Celebration and Party 2008 is on December 14, 11 am to 5 pm at the Cypress Recreation Center, Orange Avenue, Cypress, California. Bring a dish, dessert and soda for the potluck. Tasci will take care of the rest. Let all your kids (ages 1-12), participate in the "gift from Santa" festivities. Bring a gift worth $15.To join, you can contact Al Estaca-- (949) 394-3782, event chair; Eva Karaan-- (714) 484-0043, event vice chair; Sammy Sarmiento-- (909) 597-5052, music; and Malou Saito-- (909) 525-6429, programme.

Sexy Boholanas in Wowowee

Wake uppers:• We are sad how these persons are misbehaving these days—they are branded as gatecrashers—you know, “enter the dragon.” The first gatecrasher is a female Masscom student who “guested” in a toprating radio program without asking the news director of a station. Listeners were “terrified” how she butts-in a controversial discussion (by two veteran anchormen) showing her “ignorance” and “lack of knowledge.” She even commented when she read text messages. When the news director called her attention to find out what’s her business, it was learned that an anchorman told her to “guess” in the radio program.

The other gatecrasher (who’s new in a station after transferring from her mother station) is a male “junior reporter” who allegedly anchored a paid radio program without being asked to do so. While he was talking, the original anchor arrived and he went out without saying a word to the listeners he’s leaving.

• For those who missed last week’s gabfests on radio (And why we are moved, if we are moved):

Loboc Mayor Leon Calipusan, on the wounded tarsier, fee and floating restaurant:
“Ngano man gud kasuyaan man nila ang Loboc.” Ay, pikon!

Kagawad Batchoy Alba and Fred Amora, commented on acting city Accountant Kurt Bungabong’s behavior regarding the city hall’s unliquidated cash advances:
“Kinahanglan na ireavel ni JokJok Bolante este Bungabong kung kinsa ning mga nagcash advance sa panudlanan sa city hall.” He has the right to remain silent!

City councilor Leonides Borja, on coliform:“

Technical ang mga term gipanggamit ani..so nangutana mi sa taga Provincial Health Office kung unsa ma ning result sa kuwan San Carlos…. so ang total sa coliform is 2,4000, unya ang ilang coliform test is 2,400. So nangutana mi nila based sa result unsa may sagad nga advisory kay taas man …So ang ilahang advise ….Advisory sa Mansasa area, kini sa BukBuk … advisory not safe for bathing…. As early as September this year, taas anang dapita… sa graham, among suggestion is continue daily monitoring…” Huh? So long, long…

***

We like the way how our Boholano sexy vixens projected on TV (having luscious bodies to die for) in the search for the Miss Fitrum 2008 in the toprating noontime show Wowowee hosted by Willie Revillame.

Miss Tagbilaran 2007 Mary Lovely Ligones of Barangay Bool (and Miss Photogenic in Miss Bohol Sandugo 2008) is now the nation’s fantasy as she became the October monthly finalist in the said search.

She studied at Bohol National High School, Sacred Heart College- Tacloban and moved to Holy Name University.

“She is very confident now!” exclaimed the fans who saw her on TV. She looks fabulous than those the ASF Dancers (ASF stands for the initials of their manager, Anna S. Feliciano. They are also known as the Wowowee Girls and are most active on the show’s Pera o Bayong portion).

A Libra, her hobbies and interests are watching TV, reading books and magazines and joining beauty pageants. She likes the movies I am a Legend, I Know Who Killed Me and the Golden Compass. She is into love songs, acoustic and RnB.

On the other hand, Mary Ley Ann Lugod (popularly known as Mayumi) is last week’s weekly finalist last Dec. 3. Mayumi was asked to join the search in February but she turned down the offer because she was undecided at that time. Her fans are hoping she can make it to the monthly finals, if, that is a big if, she can be the monthly finalist (with your prayers!), the search will have two equally beautiful Boholanas who will display their beauty, grace and sophistication.

I knew Mayumi and I saw her when was a beautiful kid at the Victoriano D. Tirol Advanced Learning Center. She finished her high school at Holy Name University. At present, she’s a Masscom student at the Perpetual Help College in Manila.

A part-time model, she was crowned Miss Makati Tourism 2007. She was ICM’s Circle of Ten Teen Quest Grand Questor '05, a member of the Lupon ng mga Batang Aktor, UNTV37 model, Generation East 2007 finalist, member of the Perpetualite Editorial Staff and Perpetual Help College Choir.

Her hobbies and interests are modeling, singing, dancing, theater acting, hosting, and observing people. Lately, she’s into writing and she likes “to explore and learn everything about anything.”

Her fave books she is enjoying reading during her free time are Kissed Dating Goodbye and Boy Meets Girl by Josh Harris, The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown, Mga Libro ni Bob Ong and Pugad Baboy.

A Beatles fan, she likes Koreanovelas and epic movies.

“The Normal type of person who isn't hard to deal with...I may be intimidating at first but try to get to know me… you'll see the difference,” says Mayumi.

Miss Fitrum 2008 started on April 7, 2008. It airs every Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and the daily winners compete on the weekly finals on Saturdays. Filipina girls who are 18-24 years old can join.

The grand winner for Miss Fitrum 2008 will win a trip to Singapore for two, PHP 500,000 cash, a contract with Star Magic, and a brand new car. The 1st Runner Up will win a trip to Hongkong, China for 2 and PHP 300,000 cash, 2nd Runner Up will win a trip to Boracay for 2 and PHP 200,000 cash, 3rd Runner Up will win a trip to Cebu for two and PHP 100,000 cash.

Fitrum is a Green Tea Extract (EGCG) TEAVIGO product which burns fat, controls weight and boosts the body's health endorsed by young actress Judy Ann Santos.

***

I still love Caingget Beach

No matter what they say, my love for Caingget Beach (a popular destination in Tagbilaran City) will never change.

The coliform issue (for the second time) could not make the place dead. Coliform bacteria are the commonly-used bacterial indicator of sanitary quality of foods and water. They are defined as rod-shaped Gram-negative non-spore forming organisms that ferment lactose with the production of acid and gas when incubated at 35-37°C.

Coliforms are abundant in the feces of warm-blooded animals, but can also be found in the aquatic environment, in soil and on vegetation. In most instances, coliforms themselves are not the cause of sickness, but they are easy to culture and their presence is used to indicate that other pathogenic organisms of fecal origin may be present.

When you say Caingget Beach, Boholanos (especially the Tagbilaranons) have a story to tell. People in walks of life, including you and I, go there for swimming and food. We can choose gastronomic foods like sinugbang sunghan, squid, isda sa bato and koja, a local delicacy which can be found abundantly in Caingget sea.

Koja, a coral clam is from the Pectinide family with scientific name pedum spondyloidum (thanks to Mr. Loloy Milana, BFAR aquaculturist) can be found anywhere but it is only at Caingget Beach that nature constantly blesses the place. For decades, the sea is producing koja and other seafoods as evidenced by the numerous shells found in beach drift. Empty seashells are often picked up by beachcombers, and collecting these shells is a harmless hobby or study.

The koja divers go to the sea early morning to get our favorite koja, five to seven feet deep! This livelihood enables the koja divers to feed the family and send their kids to school.

At first glance, koja looks like a stone. The koja divers use an improvised hammer to pound the hard, protective outer layer of the koja. They use a knife to get the soft part of the shell.

Why people love to eat koja? “It’s delicious and nutritious,” says Dr. Perlita Palen, city agriculturist, who is also from barangay Booy.

You can eat koja with your bare hands; dip it in vinegar with pepper with puso, camote or saging (and bahalina, of course for digestion and to quench the thirst!).

And there’s a secret of koja: it is an aphrodisiac! Those who are lousy in bed, koja can help you become “hot” and “wild.” Sometime in 2006, I did a story about koja and the people of Caingget for Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho on GMA 7. There are many countless stories how koja “helped” them in producing babies. For men, koja will make you virile and your ding-a-ling is always ready for a fight! For women, koja can help for fertility and ovulation. Although there are no formal studies conducted about koja and its effect, however, the testimonies from the people defy skepticism.

Our sea is probably not feeling well or sick. Remember the principles of nature?

Nature has a way of changing things. There may be a message to all of us of what is happening now in our environment. We need to listen with all our hearts then we will understand.

Katrina Schoof, a living princess

Wake uppers:

• Quote to live by: I want to love someone whose heart has been broken, so he/she knows exactly how it feels and won’t break mine.

• The Udtohan-Pajota clan 5th annual reunion was held on Nov. 22 at the Dumaluan Beach Resort in the powdery island of Panglao. Udtohan clan members from Baclayon, Tubigon, Sevilla, Sierra-Bullones,Tagbilaran City, Carmen and other towns gathered together to strengthen their family ties. The said reunion was attended by families who carry the name “Udtohan/Odtohan/Udtojan/Odtojan/Udtuhan” and “Pajota” and associated kin. Udtohan Clan president businessman Benjamin Udtohan is this year’s chairman.

• A successful businesswoman was able to buy a posh apartment unit. She is now seeing the return of her investments via her own property. According to a Very Reliable Source (VRS), the young lawyer linked to the businesswoman already frequents the businesswoman’s unit just three days after she bought the place. This does not help continuous denials from both the businesswoman and the young lawyer that they are not an item!

***

Got an email from Peru: President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo unveiled on Nov. 23 the bust of Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal at the newly named Rizal Park in Lima, Peru.

The unveiling rites were held on the last day of her visit to Peru to attend the two-day 16th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders' meeting at the Ministry of Defense Convention Center in Lima.

The bust of Rizal was designed by Czech sculptor Libor Piszlac of Litomerice, Czech Republic, the place where Rizal's friend, Ferdinand Blumentritt, once lived.
The bust is mounted atop a quadrilateral pedestal where four inaugural plaque markers are mounted on each side.

Inscribed in one marker are the words: "Dr. Jose P. Rizal, Heroe Nacional de Filipinas, Nacionalista, Reformador Political, Escritor, Linguistica y Poeta, 1861-1896."

Inscribed in another marker are the details of the formal inaugural rites led by Mrs. Arroyo and witnessed by Prada.

The bust of Rizal was donated by Hans Gunter Schoof - a German married to a Filipina from Baclayon, Bohol - who is a passionate admirer of Rizal, especially the national hero's exploits in Germany.

Schoof now owns a plush resort in Bohol which boasts of a fine collection of Rizal memorabilia.

The establishment of the Rizal Park in Lima was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Philippine Honorary Consulate in Peru and the municipality of La Molina.

While Peruvians salute Rizal’s heroism, the Schoof couple are here in Bohol with their daughter, Katrina, who turned a another fab year on Nov. 24 (we missed to greet her on her special day, mea culpa!) and her birthday celebration scheduled on Nov. 29 (a party was held on Nov. 29, the first time she celebrated her birthday on Bohol and at the same time the opening of The Peacock Garden Luxury Resort and Spa’s wine cellar) was attended by tons of her pals, from business and Cosmo Manila’s, Cebu’s and Tagbilaran’s social set.

Kat is likable to Disney’s enchanted princess tales—Jasmine, Snow White, Cinderella, Ariel, Belle, Aurora and Mulan (although they were figment they are teaching us to follow our dreams) because she lives life like a princess. Name it and she has it all, princes!

Kat is also a globe trotter. Her last vacations in Palau and Macau were filled with happy memories including her closest pal and cousin Glenn Mark Blasquez who joined her recent trips.

“My lovely cousin is one of a kind! She is like a sister to me. I have good memories with her and I don’t even remember we fight,” shares Glenn.

They like buko juice, swake (sea urchin), kinilaw and tilapia (that’s why they have a small fishpond for tilapia). Kat, who lives like a princess is not “maarte” unlike other rich socialites. “But she is a very humble and kind person.”

She’s definitely a gadget explorer. “Because I observe she has the latest cellphone, laptop, and camera and other girl things, you name it, she has it!” reveals Glenn.

And when you check her closet, it’s neat and all arrange from dress to shoes. She’s smart and adventurous too just like her mom and dad.

Bohol has seen the family’s generosity. “I saw their family generosity by helping other relatives and other people and not letting them down,” Glenn adds.

Kat celebrated her debut years ago and it was one of her most memorable events in life. True to Han’s words that “she’s now a fine lady,” Glenn is looking forward to her wedding day. “Good luck for your future wedding,” says Glenn.

By the way, Kat is already engaged to her man and love of her life. Where and when they met? Well, that is another book to be read, says Glenn. Interesting, interesting!

Brownbuds to release new album

If there’s a band that is more driven these days, it is Brownbuds (Mendel’s Legacy).
Despite their popularity and status, the group is determined and as hardworking as before especially with their second album “Getting Tough.”

The album has the hit lead single “Grind,” which promises to be a big song with its contagiously easy-sing-along chorus that plays up the line “Grind baby, grind baby, come on and shake your booty, grind baby, grind baby, come over, let’s get busy.” The song embodies the ingredients enough to provide listeners with something to enjoy with, whatever your gender or gender preference is. There is something to look forward to again as Brownbuds releases the second single of the album entitled “Kumusta Ka Na.”

Amiel Jim Penecios is the group’s lead vocalist, who has been attracting live audiences with his distinctive voice, dreadlocks hair and innate talent, El Cid Tirol (lead guitarist), Richard Lagroma (rhythm guitarist), Milo Miranda (bass), Arlon Seno (drums), and Jason Piodos (keyboards).

Brownbuds released its self-titled CD back in 2007, from where they released singles (Byaheng Bohol, Iro, Wake Up, Olah ) earned good radio and music channel plays. (Grab a copy of the album at Q Music Video, BQ Mall for only PhP200.) Byaheng Bohol became Bohol’s unofficial theme song for tourism.

Brownbuds guested on ABS-CBN's Umagang Kay Ganda hosted by Edu Manzano on July 29 and at Magic Studio on August 3.

Brownbuds is scheduled to perform on Dec. 6 at Sevilla, Dec. 8, Martin’s Bar, Dec. 22 at ICM, Dec. 25-30 at Amorita Resort.

To know more Brownbuds and their gigs, you can visit www.brownbuds.blogspot.com or www.myspace.com/brownbudsmendelslegacy. If you wish to contact Brownbuds for gigs, you can contact Arch. Morris Sarabia, the director of operations at 0928-9877887, email: morrissarabia@yahoo.com.

Trisha Chatto: Sweet 16

Having seen her as a tot in the loving arms of her mom, Dame Maria Pureza Chatto (wife of public servant 1st district Rep. Edgar Chatto), I have to rub my eyes twice to make sure that the flawless-complexioned, dainty young lady (who turned 16 yesterday, Nov. 22, this tradition is a welcoming of a girl to womanhood just like a debut which has the same essence as the Sweet 16 and Quinceañera) before me is, indeed, Trisha Chatto (Esther Patrisha Veloso Chatto in real life).

How she has grown! It seems only yesterday my friend that her mom was seen bringing along in her meetings and social events.

“Once in a lifetime does a girl turn sixteen, never again will this age be seen. I am now Sixteen!” says Trisha.

Trisha’s birthday reminds me of Sound of Music’s Sixteen Going On Seventeen-- “ I am sixteen going on seventeen, I know that I'm naïve, fellows I meet may tell me I'm sweet, And willingly I believe…I am sixteen going on seventeen, innocent as a rose, bachelor dandies, drinkers of brandies, what do I know of those..”

Being the only daughter of a well-to-do family, she may have grown with a silver spoon in her mouth, but she remains simple and unaffected.

Trisha’s cause for the underprivileged goes back when she was in elementary at the Bohol Wisdom School. She could help in raising funds for the Girl Scouts of the Philippines, United Nations Youth Association of the Philippines, Pink Panthers and other charitable institutions. On her birthday, she asked her friends “to omit gifts” and those who wished to donate cash or in kind can help the Life Philippine Foundation for her feeding program for indigent children.

Since then, she has been actively involved in various community works and has been exposed to the community. It wasn’t long when she joined the Samahang Kabataan Volunteers Club (SKVC), an extended arm of the Sangguniang Kabataan Bohol Federation office.

As to why she is drawn to doing community work, she relates “I’ve already been blessed with everything I could possibly ask for. I want to be able to help those who are not as fortunate as I am. I also believe that it’s my duty as an individual and as a Filipino to help my fellowmen. It’s also a way for me to improve myself through the different experiences I get by being involved in various activities and a way to make new friends.”

She may have all the material comforts a girl her age wants, but her desire goes beyond the material. She must have be lucky to have a supportive family and friends who are more than willing to support her simple mission.

Get to know a little more about Trisha as she “plays favorites.”
Actor – Shia Saide Labeouf.
Actress - (International) Angelina Jolie and (Local) KC Concepcion. They're both very talented and they're both UN ambassadors! Haha
Movies- The Guardian (“The characters there save people's lives and that's something I would love to do.”) Click (It shows that you could no longer change what you have done in the past. so you have to make the most of every moment.”)
Singer- Lea Salonga. (“She has an amazing voice.”)
Song- River Flows in You by Yiruma. Although it's an instrumental, I love the way it sounds.
Book- I have a lot of favorite books. But right now, the Twilight Saga. Nakakakilig kasi. Just enough for a teenage girl like me. I share this love with my classmates and cousins. Haha
Perfume - Pink from Victoria's Secret.
Sport- I'm not really a sports person. I like to ice skate but I don’t really do it as a sport. Just as a hobby.
Fruit- Mango.
Snacks- Skyflakes :)
Dish- Carbonara. yumyum. :)
Part of her body- My wrists and hands.
Crush- Secret. Haha :)
Hideaway- Somewhere with a beach.. I love the sea.
Hobbies- Reading, going out with my friends.
Recipe(s)- Mom's mango float and Auntie Nikki's caesar salad.
Subjects (in school)- English.
Author-Sidney Sheldon. I have all his books!
Part of her face: Eyes and cheeks.
Part of a boy’s body: Eyes.
Sleeping wear- Shorts and one of dad's shirts. Its very comfy. Hehe
Car(s)- Porsche. Classy.
Pet- Dogs.
Saint- St. Cecilia. Her feastday is on my birthday.
Hero (es)- Mom, dad and Vance, my bff. They've done nothing but the best for me. I love them very much. Life would never be the same without those three.
Comics character- W.i.t.c.h. That's the only comic book I ever read! Haha
Time of the Day- Night time. I like to stargaze.
Day of the week- Friday. I get to rest well at night. Back to busy life na naman on Saturday. Haha
Part(s) of the house- The picture wall in my bedroom. It has pics of me, my family and best friends. :)
TV shows- Gossip girl. I love the fashion.. and Greek, its interesting but I watch them over the internet.
Restaurant- The resto in Peacock Garden. I love the food. Everytime I try a different dish, it's delicious.
Most precious possession- My family and my friends.
City- New York. The city that never sleeps.:)
Color(s)- Pink, green and blue.

Expression- "Ay shakoy!" Haha.. I say that everytime I make a mistake. Haha!

What’s up?

• Sam Penaso, a visual and performance artist from Bohol, will present his recent abstract paintings in his 10th solo exhibition opens on November 21 (6pm) to December 4 at the Galerie Astra, 2nd level, LRI Design Plaza, Nicanor Garcia St. (Reposo) Bel Air ll, Makati City, Tel. 8903988.

Penaso recently has been invited to do his Performance Art at “Asia Performance Art Festival” in Seoul and Gwangju Biennale, Korea and also a Group exhibition at Gallery Nuri, Korea Foundation Cultural Center.

His exhibition entitled “Keombae” is taken from the Korean term for “cheers” inspired by his short trip around Seoul and Gwangju Biennale.

A Bachelor of Fine Arts graduate from the Technological University of the Philippines, Penaso also took units in sculpture at Philippine Women’s University Institute of Fine Arts, He is one of the core members of the Tupada Action and Media Art (Tama) group of Performance Artist.

To know more about Sam and his works, please visit www.sampenaso.multiply.com.

Chito Visarra: Calling the shots

Wake uppers:• Gay event manager (GEM) thought he hit gold after bedding Hunky Model (HM), who turned out be a closet queen! They have the same colors! Plus, HM only indulged GEM’s sexual advances in exchange for the latter’s help in improving his pangkabuhayan showcase. Ex deal or no ex deal?

• Our dog, Chubby, has turned one year old on Nov. 11 with a little “fanfare.” A dog birthday party is the ideal way to say "Happy Birthday", or just a simple "thank you" to our best friend. Our dog will be a friend for life... always there with a wagging tail, a smiling face and a wet nose to welcome you home or just to say "hello.” Chubby celebrated “her” birthday with the kids (thanks to Jane Censoria Cajes of SK for the cake, Dennis Du of Dunkins for the munchkins). A mass feeding was held in barangay Booy, this city.

• Reporter: Some say that it’s hard to get to see you in office when they need your help about something.

Official: No, that is not true. All the time, my office is open to all walks of people (All walks of people? Thanks for the new phrase!)• Welcome back, piao liang peng you (beautiful friend) Pei Nuo ( Emerson Pinos) after a two-month 13th Senior Study and Research Program for International Young Cadres in China. Ni-hao!

***

Something exciting is brewing in the air these days, and radio listeners are hearing the reports of seasoned broadcaster Chito Visarra over station dyRD.

He’s not carrying media IDs; instead we find, as he fishes them out, Nokia cell phone and his Asus laptop to keep him abreast on what’s happening in Bohol and the world.

That’s because as an anchor, work is never done.

In the middle of the exchange, he receives the story lineup for tomorrow’s prime time program.

The no-nonsense journalist takes his job seriously, that’s clear. It’s no joke being in charge of five programs on dyRD (Inyong Alagad (Monday to Thursday), 7:30 a.m.- 9:00 a.m.; Ok Ba Doc? (Monday to Friday), 2:30 p.m- 3:00 p.m.; dyRD Action Line (every Wednesday), 3:15 p.m.- 4:15 a.m.; Radyo Merkado (every Saturday), 7:00 a.m.- 10:00 a.m.; Takna sa Bohol Light and Bohol Water (weekdays), 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.) handling them with sobriety and equilibrium and touting him the busiest radio personality in Bohol!

“And there’s one more program hopefully,” he gasps. He will handle a new program about the controversial reproductive health.

The opportunity to anchor the programs couldn’t have come at a better time for Chito who, until a few years ago, had felt his career had reached a plateau.

He admits that, as an anchor, he tends to be too hands-on, “researching and anchoring.”

More important, despite the crushing deadlines and hectic schedule of journalism, his surrogate daughter never missed his presence.

Chito never ceases to remind the up-and-coming wards to hold on the integrity and credibility. “We can discuss current issues practically under the sun... it’s my responsibility to inform them,” he says.

He came from a clan of politician (remember Congressman Genaro Visarra?) and, as early as now, there’re people who are pushing him to run for councilor in 2010. The dyRD people only had one concern; they asked Chito straight, “Are you going to run for public office?” They don’t want it used for political motives.” To which he earnestly answered, “No!”

“I never entertained running for public office. You can serve the people according to what God has given to you,” he quips.

And how about his lovelife? Chito is an eligible bachelor, think of it girls.

Not one to turn down a request for help if he can help it, Chito also agreed to a short ten-minute interview ---while he’s rushing for his next assignment.

Basic Info
Name: Joseto Mendoza Visarra
Nickname: Chito
Birthday: Feb. 1, 1952
Birth Place: Tagbilaran City

Personal
Claim to fame: Never thought about it. Feel very comfortable working behind the scenes than basking under the glory of fame.

Unforgettable moment: Forgot about it

Favorites
Chito's hit list:
1. Family, friends and Caycay.
2. Loves my brothers shepherds.
3. Long walks and mind games.
4. Never tires of Rock classics and DVD live classic rock concerts
5. Books, Internet, Nature.

His most treasured item is : Never really considered material things to be treasured. All things beyond valuation such as friendship, loyalty, love - all things beyond measured.

Q & A
On the spot:

How hectic is your life, exactly? I'm really slowing down. Trying to pace myself. Laid back nalang. I've been through it all. So what is there to chase.


How do you choose stories to be aired? As long as it involves public interest - it's worth airing.

How do you keep "Ok Ba Doc?" not boring? Go back to basics. Do away with the medical gobbledegook. I ask questions like a layman. Veer away from the lecture type. Level with your listening audience. Hope I'm succeeding.

What time does your day start? At the crack of dawn. Your third peetime. ha! ha!

How much time do you have for yourself? Not much. More time with my nephews & nieces, friends and my surrogate family.

What do you do to unwind? Read, music and nature. I hate Tagbilaran because I love small towns and barangays away from the madding crowd.

How much air time do you allot to police stories? Never though about that. Police women siguro!

Your tagline is: Never wanted to be tagged.

Have you ever wanted to be a reporter? Leave it to Danny Reyes and Willie Magistrado.

What do you like most about the work you do? Sharing what little I know with the listening public.

What are the stories you’ve done that you find most fulfilling? My common threads are those that ignite vigorous public discussion.

As an anchor-reporter, how do you make sure that you’re up to speed on your job? Research, research, research, research.

Where do you want to go from here? Nowhere. Just trying to perfect my craft and share whatever I have.

What advice would you want to give young broadcast students who want to reach your level of success? You're giving me more than I deserve. I've just been in this for three years. My advice “it’s the content that matters not your voice. So do your homework.”

What was your favorite beat as an anchor? Never had a beat... Went straight into anchoring with Batchoy Alba and Fred Amora.

Who was your mentor? Our GM Peter Dejaresco.

What do you watch on TV, presuming you still have the time? Of course, National Geographic, Discovery, Pat O'Reilly & a lot of ANC. There are lots of good shows but I'm early to bed.

Do you dream about your job? Wet dreams and nightmares Ha ha ha!

Do you feel like a celebrity? No way.

What is your biggest frustration/regret? Just wondering if I could have been a good priest. Stayed in the seminary for for years.

What do you value most? Loyalty and honesty.

What do you want to achieve? I'll think about it when I grow up.

Suitcase101 launches debut album

I can't even count how many times I've told myself never to interview another band. Friends have started telling me I'm biased when I praise bands. Ooh, I'm so sorry, you said you wanted Rivermaya?Suitcase101, a local band from Bohol is no fledging band with big dreams. It is composed of young, idealistic musicians.

Last week, I saw them performed (singing the SK theme song) during the SK National Congress held at the Waterfront Hotel in Lahug Cebu City with Pres. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo as guest of honor (who said "Maganda!" referring to the band's performance) and more than 2,000 SK leaders from all over the country headed by SK national president Jane Censoria Cajes.

Their story goes back three years ago when they decided to start a band. The name Suitcase101 was derived from the band Matchbox20, whom at that time the band started was quite popular. Formed in the mid-2005, Suitcase101 started as an acoustic band in a local resto bar in Bohol (we watched them performed at the then Martin's Bar with friends John Torralba, de Ers, Engr. Aprilmel Lupot, Julan Cordova, UBSSG etc for a drinking spree)with the band original members Alexis Balista, Rissa Cabalit and Sam Varquez who left the band for some reasons. Vocalist Adrian Bayron was in the band then.

Its metamorphosis was closely watched by fans from being an acoustic band to alternative rock band. Suitcase101 continued performing and composing songs the new members decided to take the "band thing" seriously. With Adrian on vocals, Alva Duaban on guitars, Arvin Avergonzado on drums and Venjo Busalla on bass. Slowly gaining popularity with their first original composition "Kalahati" as their regular audience would bring over a friend the next time they come. There was even a time that the song was played twice on the same night as late comers would insist on requesting for the song even though it was already played earlier.

They recorded the song "Kalahati" and two other original tracks namely "Never Need Someone" and "Three Years Since" in Backyard Project Studios in Cebu City last March 2007. They burst into Bohol's music scene as they released "Kalahati" and "Never Need Some" on local radio stations 911 FM and 102.3 Kiss FM, winning 6 Battle of the Bands, and opened for Manila-based artists such as Bamboo, Imago, Moonstar88, Hale and Urbandub to name a few.

Suitcase101 created a wave when the band the national search of the GlobeKantabataan 2007. It seems that there was no depth on the band's name, but during the course of the Globe Kantabataan competition, the band was frequently traveling back and forth Manila and Bohol. They discovered that traveling together with the band makes their bond a lot stronger and they just love traveling together. Hence, the name Suitcase101 just fit quite right for the band.

Slowly gaining recognition in the Visayas area as their songs "Kalahati" and Globe Kantabataan winning entry "Posible ang Lahat" are enjoying regular airplay in Cebu's radio stations 91.5 Hot FM and 93.1 Smash FM. The recent Battle of the Band that they won was Sandugo Battle of the Bands '07 where Adrian won the Best Vocalist, Alva as the Best Guitarist, and Arvin won as the Best Drummer for the third time. But the most prestigious competition they have won is the Globe Kantabataan '07. Besting over hundreds of hopefuls and making them 7-time Battle of the Bands Champions.

Following the success of Globe Kantabataan, Alva decided to leave the band to pursue his nursing degree, a move that every parent should be proud of. Getting another guitarist was not a problem as Felix Bacareza was ready to fill the void that Alva left. Felix is not a stranger to the band as he had already played with the band as a session guitarist.

The closeness of the members and support from their families and girlfriends-they gave the band the rush of energy-the energy they need to go to the studio, practice, produce an album and perform more gigs. The band thrives on playing live. Be it a small gathering or a big arena, they will sweat the same. Fueled by diverse influence on each of the members, their music combines an aggressive melodic vibe with honest to goodness lyrics, raw emotion and unrestrained passion.

After three years, Suitcase101 has a self-titled debut album. They don't have regrets releasing a "late" album as the cliché goes, there's time for everything.

The album has 11 songs--- Riddle, Three Years Since, Kalahati, Never Need Someone (they hate girls!), 163, Starlight, Foreman, Handuraw, Boholano, Live Loud Kicking Out and Lakas ng Himig, the official theme song of the Sangguniang Kabataan--- with two bonus tracks, Kalahati acoustic version and Posible Ang Lahat. Listening to the songs, Suitcase101 is creating a sound different from the rest, it's a Suitcase brand of music toning down the sound of maturity and turning up the volume of youthfulness. The songs in the album are edgies, funckier and really speak about their age and the fans.


Who's the cutest?
Adrian- Felix...He looks like Gerard Anderson according to my mom!
Venjo- Me, according to my Mama! (Laughter)
Arvin-Me, because I love myself
Alva- I'm the cutest of them all! (Laughter).
Felix- Hahaha it's me guys!

Who has lots of girlfriends?
Adrian. (Pointing to Arvin) He's Arvin. He's jolly… Huli niya kiliti niya sa mga chicks! (Laughter)
Arvin: (Counting his fingers) 1 2 3 4 it's Adrian!
Adrian: If underground movement si Venjo!
Felix: Arvin!!!! The comments at the friendster speak so.
Venjo: Virgin pa mi. (Laughter)

Do you have indecent proposals from fans, especially girls and fags?
Arvin: Naa… (Laughter)
Adrian: Ha ha ha wala oy.. We politely refused
Venjo: Good boy ko (Laughter)
Felix: No comment.
Alva- Hi Gladys!

Why you didn't accept previous offers?
Arvin: There were offers before but we are Bohol based. Some managers want Manila based bands.
Venjo: Dili pa daghan amung original songs.
Adrian: I was teaching, now I devote my whole time to the band.
Alva: Pure original songs.
Felix- Wala lang…He he he he

What are your future plans?
Arvin: Makipasasapalaran in Manila
Adrian: Mainstream… more gigs and platinum album (Laughter)
Felix: Success!
Venjo: Kanang maayo jud!
Alva: Fame and fortune! (Laughter)

Catch Suitcase101 on Nov. 14, 8pm at the Coralandia Resort along Graham Avenue, Tagbilaran City. Entrance fee is P50 only with free Globe sim card. The Suitcase101 album is sold at P200 during the concert. Those who want to buy can contact 0917-4587-640. Or check http://profiles.friendster.com/suitcase101 and www.myspace.com/sc101music.


***


What's up?

The deadline of the submission of entries for the Ten Outstanding SK Chairmen of Bohol Search which organized by SK Bohol Federation headed by Jane Censoria Cajes is on Nov. 14. For details, you can visit SK office at the 2nd floor of the Capitol Building, or you may call 411-5914.


Erstwhile Surigao del Sur representative Prospero Pichay, who's the National Chess Federation president, was the guest of honor and speaker during the 2008 Pres. Carlos P. Garcia Memorial Open Chess Tournament on Nov. 4. The tourney was participated in by chess enthusiasts from the province. Bohol, according to Pichay, has produced Jedara Docena, a chess wizard from Antequera.


Congratulations and goodluck to the participants and organizers of this year's City Division Press Conference. It was a déjà vu seeing familiar faces during the presscon: Sir Melchor Daniel, Maam Natividad Bagaipo and Maam Fe Corazon Machete.

Blessed Assurance

It’s the time of the year when mortals feel intimations of mortality, the temporariness of life, and the permanence of everlasting life.

Each year, on Nov. 1, All Saints Day, and Nov. 2, All Souls Day, we troop to the cemetery to visit our dead ones. It is one way of assuring ourselves that our departed ones are truly gone temporarily separated from us --- that one day we should be together again in Heaven with our Maker and Infinite Intelligence. As we all remember our dear departed, I want to share with you stories of hymnists who in one or another always reminding us that we are mortals and we are dust in the wind.

We sing gospel songs because, well, we just like to - they are the musical equivalent of comfort food. But more importantly, we sing them because they connect many times with great All Souls Day and Lenten themes of sin, redemption, the cross, the resurrection and heaven or hell.

The next time you sing an old, familiar hymn, look at the small print at the bottom or top of the page and you probably will read the name of Fanny Crosby.

For the past days, I’m busy youtubing Fanny Crosby’s hymns. Frances Jane Crosby (March 24, 1820 – February 12, 1915, popularly known as Fanny Crosby, the Queen of Gospel Songs) was an American poetess and lyricist best known for her Christian hymns. A lifelong Methodist, she was one of the most prolific hymnists in history, writing over 8,000 despite being blind from shortly after birth. Also known for her preaching and speaking, during her lifetime Fanny Crosby was one of the best known women in the United States . To this day, the vast majority of American hymnals contain her work. Some of her best known songs include "Blessed Assurance", "Jesus Is Tenderly Calling You Home," “I am Thine O Lord,” "Praise Him, Praise Him," and "To God Be the Glory." Every song is a testimony of her love for Jesus Christ.

Since some publishers were hesitant to have so many hymns by one person in their hymnals, Crosby used nearly 100 different pseudonyms during her career.

"Blessed Assurance" (one of the most beloved hymns of all time) is a well-known Christian hymn. Crosby was visiting her friend Phoebe Knapp as the Knapp home was having a large pipe organ installed. The organ was incomplete so, using the piano, Mrs. Knapp played a new melody she had just composed called "Assurance". "What do you think the tune says?" asked Knapp.

"Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine," answered Fanny Crosby.

She later remarked: It seemed intended by the blessed providence of God that I should be blind all my life, and I thank him for the dispensation. If perfect earthly sight were offered me tomorrow I would not accept it. I might not have sung hymns to the praise of God if I had been distracted by the beautiful and interesting things about me.

She also once said, "when I get to heaven, the first face that shall ever gladden my
sight will be that of my Savior!"

She composed her poems and hymns entirely in her mind and then dictated them to someone else. She was said to work mentally on as many as twelve hymns at once before dictating them all.

Fanny was very well known during her time and often met with presidents, generals and other dignitaries. She played the hymn "Safe in the Arms of Jesus" at President Grant's Funeral in 1885. In her later years, she also became a popular public speaker.

When she died, her tombstone carried the words, "Aunt Fanny" and "Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine. Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine."

Decades after Fanny…

In Bohol, there’s Onecimo Oclarit, popularly known as One who spends most of his
time as church musician (at the St. Joseph Cathedral).

Like Fanny, One is a blind composer and hymnist. He is an example of giving back his life and talent to the Lord through his hymns. Churchgoers are familiar of “Sulod Kamo Nga Malipayon,” “Ania Kita Nagsaulog,” “Dayegon Ta Ang Ginoo,” “Ania Kami Ginoo” and “Dawata O Ginoo,” these are One’s compositions to signal the start of the mass. Other One’s songs are “Ang Tawo Mamatay Gayud,” “Bisan Pa Man,” “Kanunay Buhi ang Kinabuhi,” “Pamatia O Ginoo” and “Tawo Ayaw Kalimot sa Abog ka Gikan” are sung during requiem mass. “These songs remind us that we are humans,” One said.

His composition Señor San Jose is sung anywhere in the world where there are Visayan devotees of St. Joseph .

“This is unto the Lord,” One said. Blind in 1957 from typhoid fever (his survival was considered by Manila doctors as “miracle” at that time) he had never questioned the will of God. He wished to become a lawyer.

“I had questions but I don’t blame God even if my world is in total darkness,” he continued. The Church helped him to regain his faith to the Lord and confidence of himself as he started serving the Lord when he was 12 years old as bell ringer for 14 years and official organist.

One, who is now 58 years old, won the 1994 Grand Original Composition for the song “Balik sa Bohol” which is popularized by local singers in Loboc in floating restos. He also won the 12th Cebu Pop Music in 1994 for the song “Kay Gihigugma Ko Ikaw.” He’s also the man behind the jingles of CBB and Ubi Festival.

“I don’t ask for wealth that can’t change my character. It’s enough that I can eat three time a day, in good health and with my family,” the contented One said. He is married to Trinidad with whom he has three children, Rosauro Mariano, Ma. Luisa and Ma. Alma . He has 10 grandchildren.

God has proven to me, that the blind can see, and He did that through Fanny Crosby and One Oclarit. We noticed that in God's sense of equality and magnanimity, He has gifted many blind people as well with the extra-ordinary talent in music. They were never bitter about their disability.

What are you doing to help other people? Are you involved in your church? What are you doing to serve Jesus? Fanny Crosby, One Oclarit (with other blind singers and composers like Stevie Wonder and George Matheson) and those who’re physically challenged could have made many excuses--- they are blind….but they served the Lord any way and look the Lord did through them. He can use you too.

To end this piece, here’re the lyrics of Blessed Assurance (Pagkabulahang Pagsalig Ko) written by Fanny Crosby which is translated into Visayan:

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! (Pagkabulahang pagsalig ko,)
O what a foretaste of glory divine! (Ang Manluluwas ko Siya si Jesus)
Heir of salvation, purchase of God, (Mahimayaong akong kalag)
born of his Spirit, washed in his blood.(Iyang dugo ang nagatubos)Refrain:
This is my story, this is my song, (Kini ang asoy ug awit ko)
praising my Savior all the day long; (Ang Manluluwas dayegon ta)
this is my story, this is my song, (Kini ang asoy ug awit ko)praising my Savior all the day long. (Ang Manluluwas dayegon ta)

Perfect submission, perfect delight, (Kining pagsalig kalipay ko)
visions of rapture now burst on my sight (Akong Makita ang Himaya Niya)
angels descending bring from above (Gikan sa langit nasangyaw na)
echoes of mercy, whispers of love. (Ang putling gugma sa atong Dios)
(Refrain)
Perfect submission, all is at rest; (Makapahulay ang nagsugot)
I in my Savior am happy and blest, (Ug magkalipay uban kang Jesus)
watching and waiting, looking above, (Sa paghulat ko ug pagtukaw)
filled with his goodness, lost in his love. (Sa Iyang gugma pun-on ako)
(Refrain)

Glenn Mark Blasquez: What's true, what's not true

" The best changes often start as a single, simple thought. Think big, and discover the ways to make your dreams real.

***

From Karen Schinnerer, deputy press secretary, US Embassy in Manila (for attribution to U.S. Embassy Spokesperson):

There are an estimated 130,000 American citizens residing in the Philippines as well as numerous others visiting for tourism or to see family and friends each day. Under the Uniformed and Overseas citizens.


Absentee Voting Act, American citizens residing outside the United States may register to vote where they last resided immediately prior to departing the United States.

The U.S. Embassy not only assists American citizens with absentee voting, but also has been holding a wide range of outreach activities to talk about the U.S. election process, the electoral college system and hear views from both Americans and Filipinos.

Cleary, there is a lot of interest and excitement in the Philippines for the U.S.

presidential elections. On November 5, the U.S. Embassy will be hosting Election
Watch celebrations simultaneously at the Mall of Asia in Manila and the SM Mall in Cebu for Americans and Filipinos to join in and participate in this year's exciting U.S. presidential election. We expect hundreds of people at each location to watch the election returns and celebrate what democracy means to Americans and Filipinos alike.

For further information on registered voters, I would direct you to the appropriate offices in each state. Also, you may want to contact the local chapters of Democrats Abroad (http://www.democratsabroad.org/countries) or Republicans Abroad
(http://www.republicansabroad.org/asia_pacific.php) for further information.

***

So what is true about the dashing and young entrepreneur Glenn Mark Jubac Blasquez and what is not true?

Glenn's "invisibility" in Tagbilaran events and parties for the past weeks created stories and blind items among his circle of friends and society watchers. Until he decides to speak up or to show up in events, Glenn will sustain the speculations and rumors about his and his beloved Sunshine Cunanan ("Sunshine" of his life), a local star in Cebu City (with TV appearances on ABS-CBN Cebu).

Glenn, according to a Very Reliable Source (VRS), is in Manila. While, he is miles away from his beloved home province (he owns the posh Bohol Coconut Palms Resort in Laya, Baclayon, contact numbers: 038 540 9250/ 0919 820 7346, email: boholcoconutpalmsresort@yahoo.com), he is adding more time to the gravepine which is sizzling with hot items such as:
He and his girlfriend (the "Sunshine" of his life) are living together.
He and Sunshine are planning to settle down this year.
His parents and close friends "disapproved" their relationship because they heard "negative" things about the girl, you know, he is just used by the girl (ouch!)
He has, ehem, another girl in Manila and Glenn visits the girl frequently.
Those are mere speculations VRS told Bared. And here are what true, pay attention, please!

They're not living together. Sunshine of his life worked in the resort as marketing sales representative.
The resort has new additional executive rooms. Glenn (with the help of his parents who are good couple in Baclayon and Albur towns) is expanding his resort. So, this venue is excellent for parties, birthdays, debuts and other occasions.
Glenn designed the resort's official website, www.boholcoconutpalmsresort.info.
Glenn is in Manila finishing his Master in Ship Management at the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy. He has sterling scholastic records as he holds degree in Business Management at Centro Escolar University and MBA-Juris at De La Salle University.
They're officially off. Ouch! And they are just remain friends.

***


Briefly noted:

Good luck to SK national president Jane Censoria Cajes for the SK National Congress 2008 on Oct. 28-30 in Cebu City. More than 1,000 SK youth leaders are expected to attend the gathering. Break a leg, girl! We believe in you!

Get connected with Metro Centre's Club Atmosphere through its multiply.com account/ Add www.atmospheresbar.multply.com to know what's hot and what's new. Stars may fall, nights wither but the vibe peeps on rolling as Club Atmosphere brings you to loads of party goodies to the highest level.

The Latest of Baba Yap

We like to party. This statement came from Baba Yap (John Geesnell Yap II in real life) who turned a year "wiser" (age not revealed) on October 16. During his birthday, this party organizer and event specialist did "meditation" a peace of mind! And he received a very special gift from someone special, the "apple" of his eyes.

Baba is the big boss of Lazer Party Club. If people think that Tagbilaran City's nightlife is deadly boring and has no place to party, obviously they've never been to Lazer Party Club (located at the posh Bohol Tropics Resort).

Lazer Party Club is still the best party hang-out in the city with its resident disk jock DJ Macky Magic, Models Unlimited and the hottests bands, molecules (performing every Fridays and Saturdays), Muddcake (performing every Friday) and Centerstage (performing every Wednesday and Saturday).

Lazer introduces something new once in a while. This year, it has invited notable artists and performers like Kim Chiu and MYMP (Make Your Momma Proud), Kim Chiu publicly announced she has a crush on Baba (Kim Chiu has relatives in Cortes, Bohol and she visited Bohol more often when she was relatively "unknown" in showbiz). It also invited stand-up comedians from Manila who knocked down the house Superlaughin!On October 11, Lazer concluded its freestyle dance contest featuring the best and the finest freestyle dancers ever in Bohol. That is discovering talents.

Another historic envent happened last night was the performance of Luningning (Lea Carla Santos in real life ) of ABS-CBN'w Wowowee who did a sultry performance that wowed the crowd.

There's something more after the Halloween Party, don't miss the chance to witness the country's premier band, Side A on December 20 at the New Sandugo Grand Ballroom in a pre-Christmas concert.

Men (many, many of us) envy Baba. He has the fame , money, good looks (blessed with looking like Greek nythological hunk Paris making him an eye candy for the ladies and fags), charisma, and talent. Despite all these attributes, he remains humble and nice.

How about girls? And the most intriguing question, ahem is when he will settle down. We don't know -- yet, do we?

Here're basic facts about Baba Yap as requested from readers:
Motto in Life:

Live hard, die harder. He's a pet lover. He owns champion labradors and president of the Bohol K9 Club Inc.

Most important lesson that life has taught him: To be humble in victory and honorable in defeat.

You leave girls or girls leave you? Neither

Music he plans in his room : RNB

Last thing that you do before you go to sleep: I take time to pray.

First thing that you do when you wake up: Text.

Boxers or briefs: Secret! Hahahaha

Sexiest part of me : Hairstyle

Favorite Food : Sisig

Favorite Fruit : Banana

Part of body that needs some improvement: Everything.

Part of body that is most vulnerable : My heart.

Ideal woman : 5'5" slim and must not be a transexual.

Ideal age to settle down: 32-35

***
What's up?

Pete Lacaba honored with lifetime achievement award

For poet and YES! magazine executive editor Jose 'Pete" Lacaba, Jr., blessings pour down from heaven if you work hard for it. For the 10th edition of the Cinemanila International Film Festival, Amable "Tikoy" Aguiluz VI announced that they have chosen to confer this year's Lifetime Achievement Award to screenplay writeer Jose "Pete" Lacaba Jr. Lacaba is the son of Jose Monreal lacaba of Loon, Bohol and Fe Flores from Pateros, Rizal. his grandmother Agapita is the sister of Reigh Monreal's grandfather Guillermo Monreal. (Full name : Jose Maria Flores Lacaba Jr. Usual byline: Jose F. Lacaba. The late Jose Sr. was nicknamed Pepe, so Jr. was nicknamed Pepito, the little Pepe. In college Pepito's nickname got shortened to Pito, but the latest gave rise to jokes about armpits, so Pit was respelled Pete.)

"It's about time! Pete should be a National Artist for Cinema. Number one, lahat ng pelikula ni Lino Brocka na nag-compete sa Cannes, sino ang sumulat? Si Pete Lacaba," Says Tikoy Aguiluiz.

Last July, Mr. Lacaba received the Aruna Vasudev Lifetime Achievement Award at the 10th Osian's- Cinefan Festival of Arab and Asian Cinema in New Delhi, India. His screenplay credits include Jaguar, which competed at the Cannes International Film Festival in 1980, while Bayan Ko: Kapit sa Patalim competed in 1984. Orapronobis was screened out of competition in 1989. Ricky Lee co-wrote Jaguar with Mr. Lacaba.


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Pizza Hut offers new flavors

When it comes to pizzas, no one does it more often than Pizza Hut. it recently launched the New Viva Italian Pizza.

"New Viva Italian Pizza is a robust Italian-inspired flavors on a new soft crust that is not too thin and not too thick", says Dennis Legaspi, Pizza Hut Sales Manager. You can choose: Roma is when you want it all. Pepperoni, ham, Italian sausage, bacon, mushroom, green bell peppers, onions, black olives, fresh garlic topped with mozzarella and parmesan, drizzled with olive oil.

Milano has a perfect combination of salami, Italian sausage, capicollo ham, oregano with olive oil and parmesan cheese. Florence is featuring creativity, quality and flavor in a pizza with fresh tomatoes, mushroom, black olives, anchovies and garlic topped with mozzarella and parmesan and drizzled with olive oil.

Sicily has creamy sauce with roasted garlic, anchovies, mushroom and shrimp, topped with mozzarella and parmesan and drizzled with olive oil.

"The Pizza Hut menu is varied and is for everyone," adds Rondel Ruiz, Marketing manager of Pizza Hut BQ Branch. It has been expanded to accommodate special need of guests. Vegetarians and vegans have options, too.

The New Viva Italian Pizza has a unique , sharp and constrasting taste. It is best eaten with the hands, with or without tissue. When craving great food, great value and great service, it's gotta be Pizza Hut. Visit the Pizza Hut at BQ Mall. Feliz compleanos to Sir Palapos.