Tag: philippines

KALESA e-Carts Offers Filipinos A Ride towards a New Philippines

Oct. 29 SOCIAL COLUMNS no comments

beneficiariesPoverty has been one of the major social problems in the Philippines.  Recent research shows that 27.9 percent of Filipinos are living below poverty line.

The two main factors that causes poverty in the Philippines are rapid growth of population and unemployment.  There are also other factors like graft and corruption, political and economic insurgencies and many others which are systemic in nature but also unquantifiable which is the main reason why these factors doesn’t show on surveys.

Of all the factors, unemployment seems to be one that civil society has the most grasp of in terms of making sustainable efforts that produces maximum results.

One such civic group active in helping ease the unemployment crisis is KALESA.

Kalesa-Logo-SmallThe Kalesa Kinulayan Philippines Peoples’ Organization, Inc. or KALESA conceptualized a system and technology that aims to uplift the plight of millions of poor Filipinos and also encourage other working and financially-able Pinoys to be enterprising.

KALESA believes that in order for the country to progress, the Philippines needs to generate more opportunities on its own, create businesses and jobs for many.

KALESA is into the distribution, retail and marketing of goods through its organized mobile channels.  The organization is best described by its revolutionary mobile stores called the KALESA e-Carts.

Kalesa-Solo-Demo

THE KALESA e-Carts

The KALESA e-Cart is an all-friendly roving store.

It is environment-friendly for its battery-operated technology.  It runs up to 60 kilometers per battery charge.  It can adequately cover enough area for an eight to 12 hour shift of merchandising.

The KALESA e-Cart’s highly-customizable body is also business-friendly since it can be designed for a specific advertisement of a brand and company.  The relatively lightweight sturdy cart, can accommodate up to 600 kg of goods.

Kalesa

KALESA DISTIBUTION IN EVERY BARANGGAY

KALESA organization is eager to set-up distribution centers across the Philippines.  With distribution centers set-up in many places in the country, the organization can reach out to many Filipinos and give them opportunity to do business and employment.

KALESA coordinates with a local church for a listing of the indigents in the area.  KALESA then selects and trains willing and qualified people to sell goods via the electric carts.  Each operator is called KALESA Ambassador.

Each KALESA e-Cart is designated to two (2) indigent families.  They take turns for a 24-hour shift of the cart.  Giving them opportunity to earn. The KALESA Ambassadors earn through profit sharing, thus, making them entrepreneurial.

KALESA distribution centers also employ other people for its clerical, accounting, technical and marketing jobs – paving the way for more opportunities for people who opt to take employment than selling.

KALESA NEEDS HELP TO HELP OTHERS

KALESA, with its new campaign, #MyNewPhilippines, needs all the help it can get to fund and raise more distribution centers across the country and help as many Filipinos as it can.

The organization offers four programs for concern Filipinos to participate in this social enterprise: iGive, iPartner, iCare and iShare.

Kalesa iGive

KALESA is taking baby steps in organizing and setting up.  As a social enterprise, it runs on funds for its social service advocates.  Concern individuals can also contribute in the works of fabricating more KALESA e-Carts for more indigents to benefit.

KALESA is now raising 10 million pesos to fabricate additional 100 carts to help at least 200 families.

Cash donations can be deposited at any BPI branch to Kalesa Kinulayan Philippines Peoples Organization, Inc. with account number: 00-0793-2207-74.

Kalesa iPartner

iPartner gives opportunities to companies, enterprising individuals, overseas Filiipino workers (OFWs), company or government employees to partner with KALESA organization in different ways.

Companies can be suppliers of goods to be sold in KALESA distribution chain or as advertisers on the e-Carts, while enterprising individuals can be baranggay or district distributors in different areas.

KALESA is a way of revolutionizing the local retail and distribution system, and this is a chance for many companies and individuals to take part in doing business for their own while helping indigent people within an area.

KALESA is offering the distributorship in baranggay and district levels. Investment on KALESA baranggay distribution center is at Php 2.5 million, inclusive of MyHouse Pre-fab warehouse good for 100 sqm., Php 500,000 worth of initial goods and lease of four (4) KALESA e-Carts.

KALESA distribution centers can be set-up in one month or more, depending on the terms.

The ideal starting size for a distribution center is 100 sqm. intended for warehouse and a small-sized store.

Individual KALESA e-Carts can also be leased at Php 175,000 with inclusive initial Php 50,000 worth of merchandise. Though, a KALESA e-Cart has to be within a range close to a local KALESA distribution center for servicing and reloading of goods.

Kalesa iCare

iCare is a volunteer program of KALESA for people to share their time, skills, knowledge and care to the organization. Willing and able Filipinos are needed by the organization to push the potential of the cause to finish greater tasks.

iShare-Kalesa

In the advent of social media, KALESA believes in the power the influence of every Filipino.  Philippines being the social media capital of the world, KALESA hopes that concern individuals can share the pages of KALESA to their friends and relatives, making it highly-visible to the public.

iShare encourages Filipinos to like, follow and share the social networking accounts of KALESA on Facebook, Twitter  Instagram  YouTube and its website at www.KalesaPhilippines.com

For more information about the KALESA organization visit their website at www.KalesaPhilippines.com or email them at info@KalesaPhilippines.com or contact them at 0908-433-3373 or 0942-832-2787.

You can also like, follow and share KALESA’s social accounts.

WEBSITE: http://www.KalesaPhilippines.com

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/KalesaPhilippines

TWITTER: @KalesaPH

INSTAGRAM: @KalesaPH

YOUTUBE: KalesaPH

E-mail: Social@KalesaPhilippines

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Two Pictures, One Nation and a Pork

Sep. 08 SOCIAL COLUMNS no comments

Two powerful pictures about the Philippines are circulating all over the internet  - a contrasting reflection of what the Philippines is currently experiencing right now.

The aftermath of the heavy rains that poured all over Luzon the past weeks have caused massive flooding and damages to properties and lives.  But a picture of a boy carrying his dog showed the Filipino spirit standing ground amidst all the hardships and disasters.

A boy carries his dog whilst wading in floodwaters brought by the monsoon rain, intensified by tropical storm Trami, in Paranaque city

Meanwhile, the second picture presented the dark side of the Philippines which was boldly published as a cover page for the latest issue of BizNewsAsia magazine with the title “The Philippines’ Biggest Criminal Syndicate”  The cover picture alone speaks volumes about allegations over some members of the senate and congress who were involved in the Pork Barrel scam amounting to billions of pesos of Philippine funds lost to bogus contracts and corruption.

biznews_asia_september_2013

Although unrelated, the latter could very much explain why the first picture happened in the first place – funds that should have been spent to prevent disasters like that from happening lost to the pockets of a few rotten eggs disguised as public servants.  But the first picture also explains why the people mentioned in the second picture should clean up their act soon.

The Filipino people will not let their filth stink anymore!  NO MORE!

September 11 is another landmark date for Filipinos as they gather once again in protest and in prayer as they urge the government to Abolish the Pork Barrel.

Why abolish PORK?  Well, the reason wasn’t actually clear to me not until last week when I heard a local congressman being interviewed and explaining why he is in favor of retaining the pork barrel.  When asked about his priority projects for the Pork Barrel, he said:

  1. Libreng Libing (Free Burial Assistance)
  2. Construction of Basketball Courts
  3. Construction of School Auditoriums

Valid projects? YES.  But as a priority? NO!  Those projects are only good at getting him more votes for the next election and some kickbacks for the construction projects.  Those projects are short-term vision-less projects that will never ever produce any results that will significantly help the people in his district.  We are indeed electing a lot of opportunistic IDIOTS in office!

So why support the September 11 protest?  WHY NOT?

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PAMANA an Original Docu-Musical about the Legacy of Ninoy and Cory Aquino

Aug. 01 CULTURE AND ART no comments

PAMANA - COVER PHOTOThe NINOY & CORY AQUINO FOUNDATION, INC. (NCAF), in partnership with Indie.go Media, and the Philippine Educational Theater Association, Inc. (PETA) will present on August 21 the gala premiere of PAMANA – an original docu-musical written by Rody Vera with the music composed by Ryan Cayabyab and Manoling V. Francisco, S.J.

The Ninoy and Cory Aquino Foundation, Inc. in its continuing effort to honor the memory of the late Senator Benigno S. Aquino, Jr. and the late President Corazon C. Aquino aims to promote a philosophy of People Power, which starts with individuals choosing to transform themselves spiritually into selfless heroes who are able to catalyze community transformation leading to democratic social change.

In line with its Mission, NCAF has focused on three program areas in recent years: Legacy Promotion through the Aquino Center and Museum, Youth Engagement and Formation through the iamninoy-iamcory movement, and People Empowerment through initiatives in various projects conducted with the help of partners like Hanns Seidel Foundation, apl.de.ap Foundation, Aklat, Gabay, Aruga Tungo sa Pag-angat at Pag-asa (AGAPP)

On August 21, NCAF, Indie.go Media and PETA brings the audience back in time as they re-tell the lives of three generations of a Filipino family recalling the EDSA revolution.

Malou De Guzman and Bodjie Pascua

Malou De Guzman and Bodjie Pascua

The cast is led by Malou de Guzman as Lola Azon; Bodjie Pascua as Turo, Azon’s husband; Jett Pangan as Edgar, son of Lola Azon and Trina’s father; and Kakki Teodoro as Trina, grand daughter of Lola Azon.

Kakki Teodoro

Kakki Teodoro

Jett Pangan

Jett Pangan

The ensemble is composed of Raul Alfonso, Kiki Baento, Raflesia Bravo, Roi Calilong, Buddy Caramat, Joan Co, Karen Gaerlan, Gio Gahol, She Maala, Benedict Manaois, Gie Onida, Norbs Portales, Gino Ramirez, Victor Robinson, Angela Samson, Nica Santiago, Miela Sayo, Ian Segarra, Gold Villar and Yeyin Dela Cruz.

Lending support as chorus is Viva Voce under artistic director Camille Molina.

BeFunky_Crowd Rally.jpg

The artistic and creative team of PAMANA is led by Rody Vera (Playwright), Maribel Legarda (Stage Director), Melvin Lee (Associate Stage Director), Jun Reyes (Video Director and Executive Producer), Manoling V. Francisco, S.J. and Ryan Cayabyab (Composers), Vince de Jesus (Musical Director), Batche Tan (Choreograper), Boni Juan (Set Designer), Carlo Pagunaling (Costume Designer), Jonjon Villareal (Lighting Designer and Technical Designer).

Here are the show schedules:

August 21, 2013 – 7:00 pm

August 22, 2013 – 8:00 pm

August 24-25, 2013 – 3:00 pm and 8:00 pm

All performances will be held at the Meralco Theater, Ortigas Center, Pasig City.

For further details, call PETA Theater Center at numbers 725-6244 or 09064817333.  Tickets are also available through Ticketworld at 891-9999 or visit www.ticketworld.com.ph

FOLLOW NCAF Online:

http://www.facebook.com/iamninoy.iamcory

http://www.facebook.com/JourneyAlbum

 http://www.facebook.com/NCACL

and Twitter (@iamninoyiamcory)

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Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brands of 2013

Jun. 03 BULLETIN BOARD 1 comment

READERSDIGESTLOGO GOLDFilipinos might be among the most active netizens on social media, but when it comes to shopping it seems tradition remains a hard habit to break.

According to the latest Readers Digest Trusted Brand Survey 2013 (RDTB Survey), only 17% of the Filipino respondents have significantly changed their shopping habits despite the rising number of online stores in the last two years.

The RDTB survey, carried out for the 15th consecutive year, reached out to 7,000 respondents across seven markets across Asia including India, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan  and the Philippines.

Among the Asian countries, Filipinos are the most likely to share both their positive (8%) and negative (7%) brand experiences on social media accounts (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, forums).

In comparison, only 5% of all the Asian respondents will often share their brand experiences online – only 4% of respondents will share positive experiences and only 3% will expose negative ones.

Surprisingly, however, despite the Filipinos keen participation in online discussions, the survey revealed that only 7% of respondents are very likely to trust comments regarding brands or products that they observe on social media platforms.

Although online shopping has not had much influence on shoppers’ habits in the Philippines, the impact of online shopping on Asian shoppers is even less. According to the RDTB survey, only 13% of Asian respondents have seen significant changes in their shopping habits owing to online options.

Products and Services with Online Shopping Appeal

Out of all the consumer product and services categories (all broadly classified under five main sectors – Travel Services, Clothing and Other Apparel, Books and Media, Entertainment Services, Vouchers and Online Coupons surveyed), online travel services appear to be the most popular with the respondents in the Philippines, Singapore and Malaysia, while those surveyed in Taiwan, Hong Kong, India and Thailand ranked clothing and apparel purchases as their top online shopping option.

Among Filipino respondents, Travel Services accounted for 33% of the total purchases online followed by consumer electronics at 20% and vouchers and online coupons at 17%. Clothing and other apparels and books and media online both account for 15%.

RDTB Award Winners and Their Online Business Strategies

The RDTB survey covered 42 product and services categories. 68% of all respondents in the survey agreed that the results of this survey will help them in their purchasing decisions.

The Reader’s Digest Trusted Brand 2013 winners come from diverse industries such as food and beverage, personal products, finance, motoring related, consumer electronics, health and personal care, household products, retail, education, transport, travel and telecommunications. They were chosen based on the six attributes of trustworthiness and credibility, quality, value, understanding of customer needs, innovation, and corporate social responsibility.

Out of the 91 winners 45 are local brands including household names such as Jollibee, PLDT, Magnolia Chicken, Monterey, DMCI Homes, BPI, Century Tuna, Argentina, Camella Homes, St. Lukes Medical Center, Condura, Banco De Oro and SM.

The Reader’s Digest survey has revealed other findings including the following:

1. Few Filipino respondents trust online comments regarding brands and products. Only 7% of the respondents in the Philippines compared to the Asian average of 8% will very likely trust comments regarding brands or products which they observe on social media platforms. Taiwan scored 1 per cent in this respect – the lowest.

2. But the Philippines ranked first among the seven countries who would share both their positive and negative brand experiences on social media.

The winners received their Reader’s Digest Trusted Brand 2013 awards on May 23, 2013 at the Edsa Shangri-La Hotel.

The Awardees of Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands 2013 with (4th to 7th from left) Reader’s Digest Commercial Director Yvonne Tey; Reader’s Digest PH Advertising Director Maricarl Garcia; Reader’s Digest Asia Pacific Editor in Chief Sue Carney; and American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines Executive Director Ebb Hinchliffe.

The Awardees of Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands 2013 with (4th to 7th from left) Reader’s Digest Commercial Director Yvonne Tey; Reader’s Digest PH Advertising Director Maricarl Garcia; Reader’s Digest Asia Pacific Editor in Chief Sue Carney; and American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines Executive Director Ebb Hinchliffe.

 

Now on its 15th consecutive year, The Reader’s Digest Trusted Brands survey, is one of the most representative and transparent consumer surveys in Asia with trusted brand results brought about solely by consumers’ unsolicited brand recall and attribute scoring.

In the survey, 7,000 respondents were interviewed in Asia with 1,000 of them from the Philippines. Conducted by Ipsos, the world’s third largest market research company, the survey provides valuable insight into the decision making processes of consumers while at the same time seeks to give due recognition to outstanding market performers.

The Reader’s Digest Association, Inc. is a global multi-brand media and marketing company that educates, entertains and connects audiences around the world. The company, which celebrates its 91st Anniversary this year, uses its marketing, editorial and content-delivery skills to serve communities of customers. With offices in 38 countries, it markets books, magazines, music, video and educational products to a customer database of more than 140 million in 75 countries. It publishes 75 magazines, including 49 editions of Reader’s Digest – the world’s largest-circulating magazine, operates 62 branded websites generating, and sells approximately 30 million books, music and video products across the world each year. It is headquartered in New York, USA. Reader’s Digest Asia’s website is www.rdasia.com. 

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ISAY ALVAREZ-SENA On Producing KATY!

May. 24 RAINTERTAINMENT no comments

There have been many attempts to a re-staging of KATY! since its first run in the 80′s but the dream of seeing this wonderful musical up on stage again was realized just last January through the efforts of SPOTLIGHT ARTISTS CENTRE and its managers, performers and real-life partners Robert and Isay Sena and Entrepreneur Host Carl Balita.


Last Wednesday, I was able to talk to Ms. Isay Alvarez Sena who is also playing the lead role in KATY! during the preview of the 2nd Run of KATY! The re-run will be held at the Meralco Theater beginning July 25 util August 4.

“We moved to a bigger venue to accommodate more people and at the same time to make the tickets more affordable.  The CCP little theater where we first did the re-staging can only house up to 400 while the Meralco Theater can seat up to 1,010 people.”  Isay said.

The original KATY did 2 runs way back in the 80′s with Celeste Legaspi producing and Mitch Valdez playing the title role. I asked why did it take too long for a re-staging of KATY! considering that it was a phenomenal hit way back then.

“Mahirap kasi ang production.  Unang-una, mahirap makahanap ng gaganap bilang KATY kasi mula umpisa hanggang matapos nasa stage siya, nakakapagod.  Hindi lang song madami ding dance numbers.  Yung set at costumes pa-iba-iba, palit ng palit hindi tulad ng ibang musical na they’re using the same set hanggang matapos.  Medyo mahal siya i-produce.” 


How different or similar is the new KATY! from the original run?

“It’s basically the same Jose Javier Reyes piece and the same Ryan Cayabyab music.  We cannot veer away from the original.  When we proposed the project, we promised not to touch the material.  Yes, there were a few tweeks here and there but basically it’s the same material.”

How costly is KATY! the musical in terms of production?

“Lahat ng musical mahal, sa KATY! we brought in the Big Band era and we got Mel Villena and the AMP Monet Band to do the music since they’re the best- and the best wont be cheap.  That’s why we’re working at getting more people involved in supporting these kind of projects.  We’re selling the Meralco Theater tickets at 1,500 only.  So on the business side hindi siya ganun ka profitable pero we’re not only doing this for the profit, our goal is to get as many Filipinos specially the young to see KATY! and find out what a wonderful musical and story this is.”

What’s the current downside?

“Kapag pinoy material kasi parang hindi nila alam.  Ano yung KATY!  Sino si Katy?  Hindi kasi siya foreign-sounding so hindi sila interested.  Pero they line up to see kapag mga foreign productions.  Mas type nila pag broadway ‘pag pinoy material wala lang.  Medyo malakas pa din ang colonial mentality.” 

Is is safe to say that Philippine musicals don’t get much support?

“Hindi pa masyado that’s why we’re very thankful to CCP for co-producing us during the first run.  Libre yung aming first run at the CCP Little Theater and right now we’re working on asking Meralco Theater to help us also.” 


What was the most challenging part that you did and will be doing in KATY!?

“The most challenging would be the dance routines.  We’re going to do some Tap Dancing in the show as well.”

What’s new with the 2nd Run?

“We’re adding more dance routines and 6 more dancers in the show.”    

What was the reception of the public during the first run of the re-staging of KATY! last January?

“Ang daming nag-enjoy sa story, sa music.. I mean who wouldn’t, the music of MR. C (Ryan Cayabyab) is so beautiful.  Kahit yung mga young audiences, they really enjoyed the whole musical.  Hindi naman kasi siya yung hardcore musical, it’s still a commercial theater kaya hindi ganun kabigat.”

Ms. Isay Alvarez-Sena was joined by Lou Veloso, Epy Quizon, Dulce, Aicelle Santos, Gian Magdangal, Tricia Amper-Jimenez and the other cast of the show during the preview last wednesday as they performed a couple of songs in KATY!

Also present during the preview is co-producer Carl Balita and KATY! director Nestor Torre. For more about that story go to rainCHECK’s KATY! The 2nd Run Preview   






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ADIDAS King Of The Road 2013 Now Open!

May. 02 BULLETIN BOARD no comments

Runners!  It’s time for you to gear up because ADIDAS is now opening the registration for this year’s ADIDAS KING OF THE ROAD (KOTR), happening this July 7 at the Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

Main Creative - KOTR 2013

The 2013 edition of the adidas KOTR will allow runners to choose between the 16.8K and 10k race categories.  The 16.8K-distance will have two sub-categories—Closed, which will be exclusive for Filipinos, and Open category for all nationalities.  Male and female runners who will top the race from the Closed category will be crowned as the Philippines’ King and Queen of the Road and will represent the country in the adidas KOTR Southeast Asia Championship in Malaysia later this year.

On the other hand, the 10K-distance will have an added feature this year, the Student’s Relay category.  The Students’ Relay category, created to encourage the youth to lead a healthy lifestyle, will be open exclusively to college and university students 25 years old and below. One male and one female student need to partner up and form a relay team, with each running a 5km leg.  The winning pair will win cash prizes individually as well as for their respective schools.

The regular 10K race will still be held, which is open to all runners interested to join this distance.  Prizes also await runners who will top the said categories.

“The brand’s battle cry is All In, as adidas continues to support and encourage people to be the best they can be in whatever interests they have —be it sports, fashion, or music” says Jason Gervasio, adidas Brand Communications and Sports Marketing Manager. “In the case of KOTR, adidas is showcasing its commitment to sports by bringing together and empowering runners from all over the Philippines and Southeast Asia, giving them a chance to engage in their passion for running.”

Finisher's Medal

Southeast Asia Roads Lead to Malaysia

ADIDAS is not only encouraging runners to compete within their countries.  As part of its drive to provide the best experiences for its consumers, KOTR will once again be held in different legs across the SEA countries.

To date, the first adidas KOTR SEA Regional Championship held in October 2011 culminated in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, involving participants from Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand.  The success of this multi-country race inspired the brand to make the event a regional annual tradition.  Hence, the KOTR SEA Championship Year 2 was organized and held at the Gardens by the Bay in Singapore in 2012.

This year, participants of the KOTR SEA Championship will get a chance to run through the streets of Malaysia.  The final race will be held in October, where winners from Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand will be joined by the KOTR SEA Championship Closed Category participants from the host country itself.  Only one winner each from the Male and Female divisions will be crowned as the adidas Southeast Asia King and Queen of the Road.

Thousands vied for 2 spots to be compete at the Singapore leg of the King of the Road 2012

How to Join KOTR 2013

There are two ways to sign up for this year’s adidas King of the Road Philippines:

  1. Visit http://adidaskingoftheroad.com/ph and register online by filling up all the required fields (not available for 10KM Relay for Students).  Online registration is open from May 2 to June 23, 2013.
  2. Visit any of the seven (7) adidas KOTR 2013 registration sites in the following stores —adidas Greenbelt 3, adidas SM Mall of Asia, adidas SM Megamall, adidas Powerplant, adidas Trinoma, adidas Two Parkade (Bonifacio Global City), or Runnr at Bonifacio High Street. Onsite registration is open from May 2 to June 30, 2013.

Race fees are as follows: P1,300 for the 16.8K race; P1,100 for for the 10K regular race; and P800 for for the 10K students’ race. Runners signing up for the 10K students’ race will have to present vaild student IDs (must be valid until July 7, 2013) at the registration sites.

There is also a discount for runners that sign up in large groups.  Participants who register with their friends and family at the same time at the registration site get the following discounts:

  • Group of 10-14 = Php100 off each
  • Group of 15-19 = Php150 off each
  • Group of 20+ = Php200 off each

Supporting this year’s race are the sponsors Summit Water and 100 Plus.

Visit www.facebook.com/adidas for more news about the adidas KOTR 2013.

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50 Years With The Master Showman – A GMA 7 Tribute to Kuya Germs

Apr. 24 RAINTERTAINMENT no comments

The biggest names in the entertainment industry will once again unite as they all pay tribute to the one and only German Moreno or Kuya Germs, as he is fondly addressed by many, for his continuing efforts to discover, build, and nurture stars in the Philippine world of showbiz. 

Happening at the plush Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resorts World Manila today, well-known personalities from radio, television, and the movies will gather to share their love and recognize the man who brought out their star potentials and helped shape their destinies.

Gloria Romero, Susan Roces, Nora Aunor, Sharon Cuneta, Janno Gibbs, Manilyn Reynes, Dawn Zulueta, Raymond Lauchengco, Jackielou Blanco, Rachel Alejandro, Pilita Corrales, Carmen Soriano, Elizabeth Ramsey, Jean Garcia, John Nite, Glaiza De Castro, Tina Paner, Sheryl Cruz, Keempee De Leon, Dulce, Jessa Zaragosa, Gary Valenciano, Martin Nievera, Pops Fernandez, Jaya, Vina Morales, and David Pomeranz are only some of the names who will surely surprise viewers not only with their performances but also with their memorable moments with Kuya Germs.

Today’s hottest stars will also be there in support of their colleagues and their great respect for the Master Showman—Dingdong Dantes, Marian Rivera, Regine Velasquez-Alcasid, Rachelle Ann Go, Mark Bautista, Gian Magdangal, Jolina Magdangal, Julie Anne San Jose, La Diva, Frencheska Farr, and the fabulous Club Mwah dancers.

Ready to show off their dance moves are today’s newest breed of artists namely Alden Richards, Aljur Abrenica, Barbie Forteza, Bea Binene, Billy Crawford, Derrick Monasterio, Diva Montelaba, Down to Mars, Enzo Pineda, Jake Vargas, Janine Gutierrez, Joyce Ching, Julian Trono, Kim Rodriguez, Kris Bernal, Kristoffer Martin, Lexi Fernandez, Louise Delos Reyes, Mark Herras, Mayton Eugenio, Sef Cadayona, Steven Silva, Winwyn Marquez, Yssa Muhlach, and Yassi Pressman.

Overall direction and supervision by Al Quinn, directed for stage by Floy Quintos, and directed for television by Louie Ignacio together with a pool of writers and musical directors with lead choreographer Geleen Eugenio, the tribute will surely be a non-stop, all-star musical extravaganza conceived to express the true meaning of “Entertainment”.

Making this momentous occasion doubly special is the grand launch of the coffee table book titledKuya Germs: 50 Years in Showbiz created by GMA Network in honor of Kuya Germs. The book contains the Master Showman’s life experiences, from his humble beginnings as a janitor and theater actor to discovering stars and hosting his own show.


50 YEARS WITH THE MASTERSHOWMAN, The GMA 7 Tribute will air on April 27 (Saturday).
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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL with 2013 Senatoriable SONNY ANGARA

Apr. 20 PEOPLE no comments

Three-term AURORA Congressman and Team PNOY 2013 senatoriable SONNY ANGARA‘s son was bullied in school when he was just 4 years old.  Manolo, who’s now 8 was hospitalized because of that incident and the unsatisfactory response of the school to the incident led to his firm belief that an anti-bullying bill should also be a part of the education reform which he is an advocate even before entering congress.

Thus, he authored House Bill No. 5496 that will mandate all elementary and secondary  educational institutions to draw up an anti-bullying policy that will be implemented in their schools.  The bill is now on the hands of the senate for approval.

528391_602845209742890_1307597019_n“According to studies, at least five of 10 children fall victim to school-related violence.  The bill will compel our schools to address bullying and provide a safer environment for our children,”  Sonny Angara said.  ”It’s not a fight I wage for myself.  It’s a fight for our children.  Bullying is one of the earliest forms of violence our children encounter.  We must protect them from it.”  he added.

My son was bullied too when he was in second grade, that caused him to stop and skip a year of schooling and an irreversible damage to his self-esteem.  It was partly our fault since we were not able to detect the problem at onset, however, I believe that the school has much responsibility here since our children becomes under their care and protection when they are inside the campus.  I commend and fully support SONNY ANGARA with this bill.

Our conversation opened with this topic last Wednesday while having our meryenda at the Milky Way Restaurant in Makati.  It was a great opportunity to sat down and to get to know more about one of the youngest and also the busiest person in the Philippine political scene today since election date is just a few weeks from now.

with Sonny Angara

with Sonny Angara

SONNY ANGARA was awarded as one of the Philippine Jaycess Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) of 2010 for filing the most number of bills from the period of 2007 and 2010.  To date, he has already filed more than 200 bills pending in congress, authored more than 50 bills that has been enacted to law.  Also, 18 national laws where 10 of which he principally authored including the Magna Carta for Women, Pre-Need Code of the Philippines, Real Estate Investment Trust Act, National Cultural Heritage Act, Civil Aviation Authority Act, and Personal Equity and Retirement Account Act.

He is also one of the primary authors of the Domestic Workers Act and the Freedom of Information Act.

This may sound moot to other people and critics, however, the youngest member of the 2004 congress who started his career in politics at an early age of 32 considers all of these as a very fulfilling experience – and according to him, that was his main reason for filing his candidacy for the 2013 senatorial race.

SONNY ANGARA is the current chair of the House Committee on Higher and Technical Education and he plans to pursue all reforms in the senate.  His main thrust is to make quality education accessible to more Filipinos.  This was also his legacy in Aurora as its congressman.

He is one of the authors of the recently enacted Universal Kindergarten Education Act which provides free kindergarten education to Filipinos.  He is also currently pushing for the Unified Financial Assistance for Students in Higher and Technical Education (UNIFAST) Bill, which improves the college and university scholarship system of the government.  He is also advocating the passage of the Bill of Rights for New Graduates, which mandates government to provide support to new graduates in finding employment.17907_602845433076201_723469661_n

Currently ranked as number 12 in the latest Pulse Asia survey, Sonny Angara admits that all his successes may also be attributed with the support of her wife Tootsy, whom he considers as the one that puts the heart in most of his career decisions and work.

Here are some quick answers from the young senatoriable to the questions that were put on the table:

His views on Mining?

I am open to the idea but not in all areas.  There should be a limit.

His views on foreign ownership?

It should be on a case-to-case basis.

His views on Death Penalty?

I am anti.

His views on cybercrime law?

Maganda nung umpisa kaya namin ipinasa sa congress, madaming dinagdag kaya tingin ko kailangan i ammend.

His views of the Freedom of Information Bill?

I am for it.

His views on the current PAGCOR ‘Entertainment City’ project?

I am ok with it, since this will generate more jobs and income for our people.

His favorite political icon?

Manuel L. Quezon

Sonny Angara as a Politician?

Masipag.

Sonny Angara as an ordinary citizen?

Masunurin sa batas.

Sonny Angara as a family man?

Mapagmahal.

Greatest controversy?

Wala naman, was criticized a bit during the Chief Justice Corona trial as the prosecution team’s spokesperson

Favorite Movie?

The GodFather

Last film watched?

SkyFall

Who would you want to play you in a biographical film?

I choose, Coco Martin of course.

If you’re not a politician, what would you be?

A lawyer, writer and teacher.  I previously taught law at the New Era University and Central Escolar University.

Team PNOY buddies?

Chiz Escudero, Allan Peter Cayetano, Riza Hontiveros and Bam Aquino

Ways to pamper yourself?

Eat all my favorite food.

SONNY ANGARA believes that his work is just beginning and there are still a lot to be done.  He cited Philippine tourism as an example.

602000_602845403076204_356319761_n“Marami tayong magagandang tourist spots, pero napakahirap naman puntahan.  Bukod sa kulang ang airports karamihan sa existing airports ay kailangan ng major rehabilitation.  Sa Aurora, maganda ang improvement when it comes to tourism but what we lack are hotel rooms.  And this is the same with other provinces.”  Sonny shared.

SONNY ANGARA was born on July 15, 1972, the second child of Senator Edgardo Angara and Gloria Manalang.  He shared that he has  a lot of uncanny similarities with his father.  Aside from being both lawyers, they both have the same passion which are education, and reading.  They are also both inately shy.  However, he stressed that he has more sense of humor than his father.

The young senatoriable has all the making of a great politician, and by that, I mean a great public servant.  He’s very intelligent and  I think that the country will benefit greatly from his experiences as a congressman in Aurora.  I believe that the country needs some new blood in government and I am seeing a lot of them stepping out and being heard.  All the best to SONNY ANGARA and all his undertakings.

 

 

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PLACES: Divine Mercy National Shrine in Marilao, Bulacan

Mar. 30 PLACES no comments

CIMG6603Aside from the Lourdes Grotto in San Jose Del Monte, one of the known Catholic pilgrimage site in Bulacan is the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy located in Marilao.

I visited the place on Good Friday and was surprised at the number of people who are visiting the Shrine.  The Shrine look small and plain on the outside but a passage at the left side of the main church will lead you down to a huge area at the back of the church landscaped to host and guide pilgrims into a spiritual and religious journey.

The main church is made distinct with its wonderful bell tower while the altar houses the icon of the Divine Mercy.CIMG6606Last Friday, the huge theater-like chapel at the back is filled with people watching a passion play presentation (senakulo) just before the dry mass at 3pm.  Surrounding the huge chapel is their famous calvary-liked path containing all the life-sized images of the Stations of the Cross where pilgrims get to visit each station and pray.  Here’s a look at the fourteen stations:

Senakulo

Senakulo

Just below the main church is the Lourdes Cave which houses various images and has been said to have healed a lot of people.  A long line of people wait as this is one of the stop that pilgrims never fails to visit when they are in the Shrine. CIMG6612Also at the back of the church is the Rosary Hill as well as the grotto of the Our Lady of Lourdes and the Resurrection of Christ.

The Shrine also features the Little Poland Museum and a Souvenir and Snack Shop.  I wasn’t able to visit all the places inside this wonderful pilgrimage site because of the huge number of pilgrims last Friday but I was fortunate to witness some of their wonderful religious images as the Shrine prepares for the Good Friday procession.

The National Shrine of the Divine Mercy in Marilao will celebrate its 20th year anniversary of consecration in 2014.

HOW TO GET TO THE SHRINE:

CIMG6675

The fastest way is to take the NLEX route and exit at Marilao.  Then take the Marilao-San Jose Del Monte road.  You can’t miss the place because it’s just along the road and there are a lot of food establishments surrounding the Shrine.  If you’re coming from Mc Arthur Hi-Way, there is a jeepney terminal along Santiago Street and even at the SM City Marilao terminal that can take you to the Shrine.  There are buses  in Manila and EDSA that’ll also pass by the Marilao- San Jose Del Monte road.  If you’re coming from Tungkong-Mangga SJDM  there are also jeepneys that’ll take you straight to Marilao, these rides will pass by the Lourdes Grotto, Muzon and also the Divine Mercy National Shrine.

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HOLY WEEK Traditions in the Philippines

Mar. 26 SOCIAL COLUMNS 1 comment

Palm Sunday 2012 PhilippinesLENT also known as Quadragesima or Quaresma is the 40 day period in the Catholic Litugical Year commemorating the Paschal Mystery (the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ).

It is celebrated by many Christian denominations all around the globe and varies from local cultural traditions.  The whole Lenten season begins with Ash Wednesday and ends on Easter Sunday.  The culmination of which is the HOLY WEEK.

Here in the Philippines, the HOLY WEEK starts with PALM SUNDAYwhich commemorates and celebrates the successful return of Jesus to JERUSALEM and signals the start of her passion and suffering on the cross.  This is usually celebrated by Catholics by buying ornately woven palm branches (Palaspas) and reenacting the entry of Jesus to Jerusalem through a procession.  The palm branches are then blessed after the mass and brought home and placed on altars.

Holy Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are still part of the Holy Week but they are not celebrated individually.

MAUNDY THURSDAY

MAUNDY THURSDAY commemorates the last supper of Jesus Christ and usually this is reenacted with the inclusion of the symbolic washing of the feet during the afternoon mass.  The Holy Thursday afternoon mass also signals the start of the VISITA IGLESIA, the seven or fourteen churches visitation, this is done while praying the Stations of the Cross.549036_10150909901429505_693014504_11585299_1075575956_n

Aside from these activities, Filipinos also do the PASYON or the PABASA which is the singing of a narrative of the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus.  Sponsored by different households, people take turns in singing the narrative in a vigil.  The Pabasa in some areas starts as early as Holy Wednesday and ends on Black Saturday. holyweek

GOOD FRIDAY

GOOD FRIDAY commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ.  Catholics all around the globe treat this day as a day of fasting.  This day is characterized with a host of different traditions.  Street processions and the grand Way of the Cross (Via Cruxis) in the morning.  The streets are also filled with people doing penance (penetensya).  In the afternoon and before 3pm, Catholic Churches reenacts the 7 Last Words of Jesus Christ on the Cross and ends with the symbolic kissing of the cross of Jesus followed by a procession in the late afternoon.   In the evening, a passion play (senakulo) and other similar traditional programs are held at various streets and stages.h17_18601681

BLACK SATURDAY

BLACK SATURDAY is characterized by Church vigils and solemn prayers.  This is also a time for Churches to prepare for the celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus through a High Mass in the evening.philippines-easter-sunday-2011-4-23-23-40-26

EASTER SUNDAY

Easter Dawn is celebrated with the reenactment of the meeting of Jesus and Mary in a tradition called the ‘SALUBONG.’  Two processions are conducted usually, one bearing the image of the risen Christ and the other of Mary.  The traditional meeting is then followed by joyous Easter Masses.

OTHER HOLY WEEK TRADITIONS

Lent in the Philippines is also a time for many people to go on vacation.  Catholics and non-Catholics often go to provinces and even summer beach destinations to spend time with families and friends.  This is why Holy Monday and Tuesday is often characterized by a heavy volume of vehicles on highways causing major traffic jams, over-flowing beaches and fully-booked hotels.  p3210247_brunomabuhay

Major business establishments are usually closed during Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Black Saturday.  Local TV stations have Lenten special presentations replacing regular programming.  Business and TV program returns to normal on Easter Sunday.  EASTER SUNDAY just like Christmas is also a great time for malls and usually they have lots of activities particularly for the kids.

 

 

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