Sing-Along Game Show to Replace GGV?

Image courtesy of www.tfc.tv

After lording over Sunday evenings since 2011, Vice Ganda’s ‘Gandang Gabi Vice’ will soon be replaced by a new show. Still hosted by Vice Ganda, the new show will be a sing-along game show.

GGV has offered Sunday night viewers with interviews of local and international celebrities. ABS-CBN ang GMA artists have appeared and gamely answered the questions of Vice Ganda that ranged from professional to personal questions and love life. Even the K-pop female group, Momoland, has guested on the show and danced to Sarah Geronimo’s ‘Tala’ early this year.

With competition heating up for the time slot, the said show, ‘Everybody, Sing!’ will start to air in March.

ADMU Addressing Issues on Sexual Harassment Cases

Image courtesy of Facebook: Ateneo de Manila University

Over the part few weeks, Ateneo De Manila has been under fire from various sectors on the way the administration has been handling alleged incidents of sexual harassment of professors on students.

Social media sites have various testimonies coming from alleged victims of certain professors from over a year ago. While some of these stories have not translated into cases, other students have filed their complaints. Despite the Data Privacy Act, a student recently revealed his alleged experience and frustration at the outcome of the case he filed. The post, which was already deleted, elicited various responses from fellow students, alumni network, and professors. More importantly, other victims came forward with their own stories that supported such claims and several names of professors were disclosed.

Such reactions prompted the students to organize a protest to remind the community that sexual harassment will not be tolerated and the fight continues.

The ADMU administration, meanwhile, has released official statements on the cases and stressed the due process has to be followed. No less than the ADMU President, Fr. Jett Villarin, apologized for the handling of the said cases and the pain inflicted on the Atenean community at the height of the controversy. After meeting with the ADMU Sanggunian (student council), Fr. Villarin has revealed the creation of the Office for the Protection of Minors and Vulnerable Adults, which will be under the Office of the President. Meanwhile, faculty members have released a statement and an open letter in support of certain accused professors and encouraging critical discourse on addressing the shortcomings of dealing with such cases, respectively.

Timeline of Eigenmann-Casino-Ejercito Controversy

Image courtesy of www.bandera.inquirer.net

The revelation of Max Eigenmann that the father of Ellie is none other than Jake Ejercito has stirred various reactions from netizens. Initially, reactions delved on “what’s new?” and moved on to wanting Andi Eigenmann and Ejercito to apologize to Albie Casino.

Back in 2011, Casino was among the young actors ABS-CBN was building up. At that time, he was already the screen partner of Kathryn Bernardo in the remake of Mara Clara. The audience loved their team up and Casino seemed destined for a bigger career. However, the public also knew that romance between Bernardo and Casino was not possible because Andi Eigenmann was in the picture.

Eigenmann was already being noticed for her acting talent and trusted with projects where she was the lead actress. Coming from a showbiz family, much was expected from Eigenmann to prove that she was the worthy heir of her parents, Mark Gil and Jacklyn Jose. Her road to stardom seems promising.

Then, one day, showbiz land was awakened with the admission that Eigenmann was pregnant. The quest to identify the father came next and fingers pointed out to Casino, who was her boyfriend at that time. Nonetheless, the relationships of Eigenmann at that time were confusing. One claim is that when Eigenmann and Casino broke up, Ejercito came into the picture and became the boyfriend of Eigenmann. As Ejercito was studying abroad, he had to leave. With Ejercito far away, Eigenmann allegedly went back to Casino even though she and Ejercito had no formal breakup. Then, news of her pregnancy rocked the industry.

When Casino was pointed at as the father, the actor immediately denied the claim. Casino was around 18 years old at that time and was being touted as the next big talent of his network. However, the doubts coming from his family and reaction to the controversy affected his image. Slowly, his projects were no longer materializing. Worse, Casino was allegedly even beaten up by celebrity sympathizers of Eigenmann. Then, Casino disappeared from the network, and resurfaced in another when the issue seemed to be dying down.

While Casino opted to stay away from Eigenmann, Ejercito chose to be with her despite not being identified as the father. This decision of Ejercito to standby Eigenmann resulted in straining the relationship between his mother, Laarni Enriquez, and Eigenmann’s mother. Jose was caught on video talking about how the Ejercitos might not want her daughter for the unico hijo because Eigenmann was a single mom. Enriquez was quoted to deny such belief of Jose.

As Ellie was growing up, netizens were surprised at how Ejercito would dote on the child. He would bring her to places and develop closeness. People questioned why he seemed to be close to the child, while Casino had not even seen Ellie. While photos showed Ejercito and Ellie in happy moments, the opposite could be said when it came to Eigenmann and Ejercito in their social media accounts. A war was always happening in their exchanges and their followers realized that Ejercito and Eigenmann have too many disagreements.

Last year, Casino resurfaced and was back with ABS-CBN. In one of his interviews, he hinted that he was indeed not the father of Ellie, but he was not in a position to say anything more. Moreover, he opted to remain quiet so as not to affect the child.

A few days ago, Eigenmann’s half-sister, Max, finally revealed and confirmed that Ejercito was indeed the father of Ellie. In her interview at Good Times with Mo Twister, Max revealed that Ejercito took the paternity test. Casino actually offered to take a paternity test, but this offer was turned down by the family of Eigenmann. This revelation sparked a snowball of reactions. Netizens immediately criticized Eigenmann for not telling the truth. Even Ejercito was not spared. Netizens demanded that both Eigenmann and Ejercito should apologize to Casino. After all, the pregnancy issue ruined the career of Casino. However, looking at the bright side, other netizens claim that had Casino remained visible, Daniel Padilla would have never been partnered with Kathryn Bernardo, and KathNiel would have never happened.

Now that the cat is out of the bad, so to speak, the public is waiting for a statement coming from Eigenmann herself. As the mother, she is the only other person who can refute or verify the claim made by Max. Further, the question of why she hid the identity of the father is another point to ponder. Another one is why she played along that Casino is indeed the father. At the moment, only Casino and his family as well as some family members of Eigenmann have posted on social media their reactions.

Entertainment Writer Rules #StoptheHate as Epic Fail, Points out Ironies

Source: Abante Online

A Bad Review is Not Libelous

Image courtesy of www.manilaspeak.com

Source: www.manilaspeak.com

By: Atty. Rod Vera

The hottest news of the week is the libel lawsuit filed by a celebrity stylist against a fashion blogger. While this representation will not doubt to any feelings of the parties in this controversy, the efficacy of this level of alleged defamation is wanting.

There is a previous article on libel and the public figures (read HERE). Now, from gathering of information from the apologetic news portal, the celebrated stylist is suing a fashion blogger mainly on the issue that most trending woman on earth wore a “used” dress on the biggest show last October 24, 2015. 

This representation is fashion-deficient so friends were sought to define the job of a stylist. So, a stylist chooses the attire for a person. It’s that simple. What was just newly discovered was the difference between the designer and the stylist. The designer is known for the quality of the design, while the stylist is known for the choice. Also, the stylist doesn’t actually own or lay any proprietary right to the clothes. 

No doubt that a stylist is a specialized profession where craft and artistic acumen is desired. People pay over six figures to be told what to wear. A celebrity stylist is a celebrity for all intents and purposes. And as it was stated before, celebrities have a lesser degree of defamation standards. 

Libel under the Revised Penal Code is the public and malicious imputation of a crime, or of a vice or defect, real or imaginary OR any act, omission, condition, status or circumstance tending to cause dishonor, discredit or contempt (Article 353 of the Revised Penal Code). The Cybercrime Law (RA 10175) created the crime of online libel. In fact, the Cybercrime Law increased the penalty of libel.

Now, the degree of how the libel hurt the offended party is subjective. The more private the person, the higher the degree of privacy that is reasonably expected. Now, the more famous person, the lesser degree of privacy. A celebrity wants to be famous, thus the baggage that comes with notoriety must be the burden to be expected.

The accused in this issue is a fashion blogger. While his defense could use the freedom of expression and the press, there could be a better argument. The nature of the accuser in relation to the access to the public should be a factor. Also, the profession being high profile increases the chances of criticism.

The craft of “styling” is akin to other skills such as cooking, composing music or directing films. They put out their product for their target market to appreciate and pay for it, sometimes indirectly.

Now, ask yourself this, if we allow this controversial libel lawsuit to prosper, what is to stop a director from suing a movie critic? What is to stop a chef from suing a customer who tweeted that the food tasted bland? What is to stop a musician from suing the audience who booed him onstage?

If you make yourself public, you make yourself open to criticism. More so, if the criticism is targeted to your craft. A bad review is not libelous.

Who’s Afraid of Korina?

Image courtesy of Instagram: thisiskorinasanchezroxas

Source: www.philstar.com
By: Ricky Lo

Veteran broadcast-journalist Korina Sanchez-Roxas is arguably one of the most visible female news personalities in the industry with a prodigious career of almost 30 years — inspiring women who start from the bottom and work towards their dreams as far as they can imagine. And yet very little is known about her personal life outside what is seen and heard of her on her top-rating platforms.

Korina did not celebrate her milestone last year as she turned the big 5-0. So this year, 50 friends and loved ones come together, exclusively, and for the first time, to spill the beans on the Korina they know off-camera.

1. Nanay Fe Mazo, 40 years kasambahay of Sanchez Family

Hindi ako pinapabayaan lalo sa pangangailangan ko ngayon. Pang habang buhay yung mga gamot ko. Nagsilbi ako sa pamilya Sanchez ng buong buhay ko, mahigit 40 years ako sa kanila. Parang pamilya ang trato nila sa akin. Ang tawag nila sa akin “Nanay.”

2. Dr. Vivian Sarabia, Optometrist

In 2003, I underwent chemotherapy for colon cancer treatment. During those days of loneliness and uncertainty, Korina would call me and, for two hours on the phone, she shared with me the latest showbiz news. She was diverting my attention from the terrible side effects of my cancer treatment. By the time we were done talking, my chemo was also done. Looking back, I realize that, while my oncologists managed my illness, my dear friend Korina took care of my well-being. Korina will always be my soul sister. She is a blessing indeed.

3. Patrick Rosas, Stylist

She has a big and good heart to listen anytime as a true friend. I think she’s cool, and really funny!

4. Bernadette Sembrano, Anchor TV Patrol

Si Ate Koring ay totoong tao. Very supportive siya sa TV Patrol assignments ko. At Ang paalala niya sa akin — ‘wag kalimutan ang mag pilikmata! Thanks, Ateng!

5. Ivy Almario, Interior Designer

Korina has an innate, unerring eye for good design! Her taste in artworks, furniture and accessories while very original, reflects years of honing through travel and the sheer delight of immersing herself, in anything design-related. She cares about shaping the space around her, and transforming it from the ordinary to beyond!

6. Robin Padilla, Actor

Well, I always look at Ms. Korina Sanchez as a public servant. She has the decency of a highly-educated woman and a soft heart for the victims of injustice. I know what I’m talking about because she never abandoned me when I was in prison.

7. Abon Cimafranca, friend of 15 years

 So many don’t know the comedian side of Korina. She is one of the funniest people I know.

8. Atty. Romeo G. Roxas, Barangay Umiray Community Developer, Green Square

After Typhoons Winnie, Violeta and Yolly in November 2004 that caused so much destruction, Korina came to Aurora to do a story on the devastation that killed so many people. After her reporting, Korina came back. She skipped altogether the celebration of her birthday to instead help the disaster victims of Umiray, Dingalan and Aurora. She sold her personal bags and clothes in a bazaar and used the proceeds to finance the construction of row houses in Umiray, and the purchase of a jeep which she gave to the community for their transport needs from the mountains.

9. Boy Abunda, ABS-CBN colleague and friend

That she’s driven is true. That she is obsessed with excellence is true. That she is impervious is true. That rest is either myth or urban legend. Korina Sanchez is inarguably a formidable force both as a person and as a professional — and some make a fuss about it because she’s a woman and she does it her way.

10. Arma Avendaño-Bacar, Writer and Assistant of 12 years

I love the simplicity of her heart. During one of her birthdays, we went to Boracay. She was so happy as she was to be married soon. We were in the beach front, ang lakas ng alon, then she asked me, “Arma, talon tayo against the waves?!” And, literally, we were jumping with the waves. And then she asked me, “Sigaw tayo?” So we went, “Waaaahhhhh” — habang bumabagsak kami sa buhangin. Only one of the so many memories I will forever treasure in my heart about Ma’am Korina. Simple and real. My whole family loves her to the moon and back!

11. EG Ruiz, elder brother

She used to be so difficult to feed as a child. I remember the cook would have to place a lizard inside a bottle all throughout the meal for her to chew on her food. This, I swear, went on for years.

12. Jojie Dingcong, Talent Manager, friend of 25 years

Korina in a word? She is real...no drama. I love her. My sis and my friend for life. Totoong tao.

13. Dr. Rachael Rosario of Childhaus

Korina always remembers the kids of Childhaus Center For Children With Cancer during Christmastime. She gives them unique experiences as her gifts to them. Dinala niya sila sa Disney On Ice sa Araneta Coliseum and, one time, pina-experience pa niya sa mga bata ang makasakay sa eroplano in a short local trip.

14. Margot Torres, VP-Marketing, McDonald’s Philippines

Korina in one word for me is: perfectionist. And I am, too. So I think that’s why we have gotten along really well all these years. I admire Korina because she does not compromise her standards and someone always needs to do that to bring the best out of people.

15. Jannice Fortes, Executive Assistant

I always have a long list to do everyday for Ma’am Korina.  But reminding her about bird feeding is for me the cutest of all in that list. Sino pa ba ngayon ang nakakaisip na magpakain ng mga ibong gala? At 9 a.m., you will see Ma’am K feeding the birds na dumadapo sa garden nila sa bahay. She is a certified animal lover.

16. Erlinda Carlos, Korina’s aunt

I have known my niece Korina to be a person of strong convictions, generous, and with a deep sense of family values. When doctors gave up on her mother, then very ill, it was Korina who did not give up. When everyone said my sister had no more hope, Korina refused to believe it. By herself, she managed to bring her mother to the US, staying by her side in hospital until her Mom, my sister, was ready to go home. You might say that she saved her mother’s life.

She has been the strong pillar in her family especially after her parents passed away. I call her the “glue” in the family because wherever she is, she makes every effort to gather everybody together.

17. Mickey Sanchez, youngest brother

Being the only girl among three brothers, Korina was then about 12 and she desperately wanted a baby sister when our Mom was pregnant for the last time. Hence, when our mom gave birth to me and found out I turned out to be a boy, she got so upset and cried the whole day. To make up for it, she insisted on dressing me up like a girl until I was about two years old, with nail polish and all — and wala akong magawa, haha!

18. Bubbles Rodriguez, former segment producer, TV Patrol

She is a remarkable one-woman team. What impresses me most about her is how knowledgeable she is as a broadcast journalist — writing, editing, directing, producing, lighting...

The best stories about Korina are those from behind the camera — like how she would iron her own clothes in the office, at pinaplantsa niya ang damit niya habang suot niya, haha! I live abroad now but it is an honor and privilege to have worked with her.

19. Paolo Baluyut, working student, one of Korina’s scholars

Hindi pinababayaan ni Ate Korina ang aming pamilya lalo na noong na-diagnose ang uncle at auntie ko sa sakit na cancer. Kung hindi rin dahil sa kanya ay hindi ako makakatungtong sa kolehiyo at makakakuha ng kursong Engineering sa UE.

20. Ona Unico, Korina’s production coordinator of 19 years

In 2009, during my greatest trial, lesions formed all over my body and I thought it was the end of me. I couldn’t work because of my health situation. I had left her show, Rated K, long before this. But I had to swallow my pride and e-mailed Madam K for help. I told her what I was going through and that I wanted to work so I can earn the money to maintain my medical needs. Her reply, “Hindi kita pagtatrabahuhin muna, Ona. Magpagaling ka muna and I will take care of all your medicines.”

21. Leo Laparan II, Manila Bulletin Research Head, Korina’s classmate in MA Journalism, Ateneo de Manila University

Fate made this ordinary man and a popular figure in Philippine broadcast media cross paths and form bonds — if only for a short two weeks. And she never forgets. Last Christmas, she lovingly scouted for several copies of the journalism bible The Elements Of Journalism, a book we all couldn’t find locally. She sent those individually to our Ateneo batch mates. It was a pleasant surprise for all of us, her classmates.

22. Joanne Ramirez, Allure Editor, The Philippine STAR

When I was lining up at the fast lane (because a representative of the airline was assisting me) of the immigration line at NAIA, some time 2009, somebody called out to me. “Joanne!” It was Korina and she was lining up with everybody else at the longest queue. Seeing my expression she said, “I’m doing this for Mar,” she said. “Because this is where he would line up.” Realistically, at that time, Korina was the broadcast queen of primetime and I’m sure she could have had some courtesies of the port at her taking. But she lined up like all the other passengers who had no titles or so-called connections. So when you see her lining up now, believe me it’s nothing new.

23. Ms. Rosa Rosal, Philippine National Red Cross Ambassador

I have been blessed with people around me, one of them is Korina. I like her very much because we share the same passion — that is to help vulnerable people. She is a big help to the Red Cross, aside from being a blood donor, she always promotes a strong advocacy in the voluntary blood donation program. She has, therefore, saved lives literally, and in so many other ways.

24. Tyra Janelle Sanchez, niece, 14 years old

Every year since my cousin Maya and I were about five years old, our Tita Korina and we would have a “girls’ day out” where she brings us to three stores: A toy store, a bookstore and a salon. These days, the toys have been replaced by fashion, haha! At the end of every day, she would tell us a “lesson of the year,” like, “why you have to obey your parents” or “why it’s important to get good grades and a good job later on.” Her deal with us girls is, “You can get all the concert tickets you want — on condition that you marry at 30 years old.” Our Tita Korina is like our second Mom. She is my idol.

25. Maya L. Sanchez, niece, 15 years old

She may not know it, but then through her stories and pieces of advice, she taught me how to be willful. She taught me that not everyone will like you, but you’re going to have to accept the fact. She taught me that failure is inevitable.  But on top of it, she taught me to stay strong no matter what; to pick yourself up whenever life pushes you down and that is the most beautiful thing.

26. Jana Padilla, businesswoman, friend of 25 years

I met Korina when both our boyfriends were working as doctors in the emergency room. We would meet there when we both brought food for the doctors near midnight. We were both money-earners for our families and we were, at the time, both struggling young entrepreneurs. We both had no money for extras that time. But I found myself in an emergency situation and needed help. I couldn’t tell my friend Korina because I knew she didn’t have much to help me with. But then, when she found out, while we were talking one day, she said, “Paano yan? We both don’t have the money.” And then the most unimaginable thing. Korina looked at her hand. She was wearing a simple everyday ring. And then she said, “We have money now.” She took her ring off and gave it to me to pawn temporarily — just so I could meet my emergency. “I don’t think this would fetch much. But use it muna and give it back when you’re okey na.”

27. Kata Inocencio, TV Host/Producer, Kumare

May pagkabruha talaga, hahaha! For a reason! But she is the most misinterpreted person — for I know her to be the most excellent worker and most generous friend. Great mind. Greater heart.

28. Joseph Felix Assad, Honorary Consul of Lebanon to the Philippines

I have loved, admired and respected Korina Sanchez-Roxas for 25 years now. I used to listen to her on AM radio to improve my Tagalog as a balikbayan. I loved her views, her opinions and her mind. I was surprised and excited to meet her one New Year’s Eve after so many years of listening to her every single day. The crush ng bayan. We have been friends now for the last 20 years as we are birds of the same feather sharing the same views on life in general. To know Korina is to love her.

29. Stanley Castro, Executive Producer, Rated K

Some people see Korina as the strict, perfectionist boss. But not a lot of people know that she is also the kind of boss who never missed an opportunity to demonstrate valuable life lessons along the way — like saving for the future and valuing our health. When one of our staff members got hospitalized for pneumonia and kidney failure, Korina shouldered the expenses (including burial fees, because our staff eventually died from it). She went to the wake and made everyone laugh in her speech about her staff, bringing tears of joy to the bereaved mother’s eyes.

30. Mylene Pura-Arroyo, classmate, friend of 40 years

Wow, so many things people don’t know about her. In high school and college, she was known for many things: She cooks well. She sings well. She was in the varsity volleyball team. She won in debates and declamation contests. The upper classmen picked on her because she had nice hair. But they all eventually became her friends, won them over. Story of her life, I guess.

31. Ninoy, family driver of seven years

Tuwing Pasko nga, pati mga anak ko may regalo din galing sa kanya. Hindi ko malilimutan noong binigyan n’ya ng computer ang anak ko na nag-aaral sa college. May educational bonus kami sa kanya tuwing Hunyo dahil importante kay Ma’am na ang mga anak namin lahat sa staff niya ay nag-aaral.

32. Noli “Kabayan” de Castro, former Vice President, TV Patrol anchor

Isang example ng pagiging professional ni Korina sa pagbo-broadcast. Isa siyang executive producer na magmamando sa buong staff. Ay, kahit ano pong stress niyan behind the camera, pag harap po niya parang normal na normal lang. At eto pa, in a few seconds lang, kayang-kaya niyang mag-make-up sa sarili niya! Pagsigaw ng floor director na, “Ms. Korina, game na po tayo,” pag harap niya sa camera, ready on the air na kapag bumasa ng balita!”

33. Myrna dela Torre, former executive producer, TV Patrol

If there is one thing I could not do without during Christmas, it’s Korina’s blueberry cheesecakes. Hindi ko alam kung paano natutunan ng isang Korina Sanchez ang pagbe-bake ng ganoon kasarap na cake. She has struck me as a hard-hitting journalist, especially during our Hoy Gising! days. Hanggang natuklasan ko na Korina is a charmer in the kitchen.

34. Rannie Racelis, Korina’s cameraman of 16 years

Nagpapasalamat ako kay Madam Korina dahil tinulungan niya akong magkabahay, kaya para sa akin, ang pagiging kapamilya ay di lamang sa dugo nasusukat. Masyado siyang thoughtful na tao at di lamang boss.

35. Dyan Castillejo, TV anchor

I always admire her incredible work ethic, her desire for excellence and super articulate communication in both English and Filipino. She is my sister in the Lord and I will always be her faithful prayer warrior.

36. Dissah Caguiat, Production Assistant

Nag-speech po si Ma’am Korina sa San Miguel, Bulacan at napakaraming tao ang gustong lumapit sa kanya. Nakapasok na po kami ng van nang may kumatok sa sasakyan, isang lalaki kasama ang batang lalaking anak. Humihingi po sya ng pambili ng basketball para sa bata. Sinabi ko po na babalikan nalang namin sila kasi nagmamadali na kami.

Napagsabihan po ako ni Ma’am at sabi niya, “Sa palagay mo ba mababalikan pa talaga natin sila? Biruin mong dala pa nya ang anak niya dito siksikan para makabili lang ng basketball? P500 lang yan, hindi pa ba natin ngayon tutulungan yan, kaya naman natin? Ibigay mo ang pambili ngayon na.”

37. Arnold Vegafria, Talent Manager, Business Partner, Friend

She’s a softie who can melt your heart with her overwhelming thoughtfulness and generosity. Did you know that during one of my birthdays some years back, she actually took a day off just so that she could prepare for my surprise celebration? She didn’t even report for her daily TV Patrol stint! She actually went to Dangwa to buy the flowers, made all the arrangements for the caterer, hired a live band, and even had a customized cake made for me.

38. Doris Bigornia, News Personality, Friend of 30 years

I remember an incident a few days before her wedding. She asked me to go to her house. I was really shocked to see her: No make-up, really pale and with what looked like blood oozing from her towel-draped head. My SOCO instinct told me I should rush her to the hospital right then and there. Then she told me: “Ano ba ang tinitingnan mo dyan? Nagpakulay ako ng buhok dahil namumuti na, at wala akong time para maghintay sa parlor para kumapit ang kulay!” I was thinking, could she have lost it as it was just a few days before the wedding? We both laughed so hard, we couldn’t breathe.

39. Girlie Rodis, Korina’s Business Manager

People presume that the Korina Sanchez they see — strong and independent — is the Korina up close and personal. Definitely, there is a strong woman there. But what they do not see is the vulnerable Korina. I have seen this more than a few times. When her eyes moisten involuntarily. What people least know about her is she is pusong mamon.

40. Milano B. Sanchez, Brother

Every time I’m in trouble or in question about some issue during family meetings, I brace for my Ate’s sermon. And then I start praying for her pet dogs to come out. Why? Because once her pet dogs Goya (a Labrador) and Kolette (a toy schnauzer) appear, her mood immediately changes and she transforms into a loving and malambing doggie mommy right before everyone’s eyes. My sister appears to be poised and calculated to many most of the time but, during family gatherings, she eats, drinks, jokes and laughs like her brothers do. She actually is the funniest among us. Her comedic timing, wit and dry humor cracks us up every time. She is actually one of the best comedians I know.

41. Atty. Mike Toledo, SVP-Corporate Affair Philex Mining Corporation

Korina is a very thoughtful person. She has so many godchildren but never forgets anyone every Christmas, including my son Javi. As a hostess entertaining, she leaves nothing to chance. Korina in a word? Elegant.

42. Paloma, Counseling Astrologer and Feng Shui Consultant

One day I asked about her love life. She wrote down three birth dates on a piece of paper and she asked me, “Who is the one for me?” half jesting. I read the charts and matched it with hers. I chose the last date on the paper. It turned out to be the birthday of Mar Roxas. Five years later, they were married.

43. Ferdie Dugay, TV Patrol Segment Producer

Mahusay siyang reporter. One lazy news day, Bandila producer Paul Henson was casually chatting with Korina about not having a big enough story for the evening’s line-up. Korina asked him, “What did you have in mind?” The producer said, “an exclusive story,” just like that. Mahirap ‘yun. It took just one working day for Korina to astound the producer. That same night she came back with an investigative story about celebrities on the drug watch list of the PDEA, and clubs in the metro known to be hubs of drug trading. That same year, Korina received the Ka Doroy Valencia Broadcaster Of The Year from the Kapisanan Ng Mga Brodkaster Ng Pilipinas.

44. Maricel Soriano, Actress and Friend

Tunay na kaibigan si Tita K. Kapatid na ang turing ko sa kanya. At bilib na bilib ako sa professionalism niya. Nakakaloka. Alam niya ang ginagawa niya at magaling siya. Bakit ko siya mahal na mahal? Parang kay Mar lang, weh ano ba pakialam ninyo? Oo mataray siya, pareho lang kami, pero hindi siya magnanakaw.

45. Rica Lagman-Sto. Domingo, High School Classmate

For her 50th birthday, us classmates asked what her milestone celebration was. She said, “No parties, no celebrations, no trips. I just want to see my dogs run with the wind on the beach.”

46. Chuck Gomez, Korina’s Publicist

Pareho kaming mapagmahal sa magulang ni Tita K. Ulila na siya kaya lagi niyang pinapaalala sa akin na alagaan at mahalin ko ang mga magulang ko. Lagi niya sinasabi sa akin na kung ano man ang mga maganda niyang nagawa sa parents niya ay kulang na kulang pa. Dahil dito lalo kong minahal at pagsisilbihan ang Mamang at Papang ko.

47. Enrico Santos, Head Of New Media and Concept Development Department, and Producer, Skylight Films, and Writer-director of Star Cinema

The Korina I know is the larger-than-life lady who spans the entire spectrum of what is interesting and colorful in a person. She holds silver antique sales and plays with barefoot kids as she gives them tsinelas. She calls her schnauzers her kids, and makes plans to bear Mar’s kids “scientifically.” She is designing strategies one second and wooing us to eat her tapa and sinigang in the next.

48. Cristy Fermin, Entertainment Journalist

May mahika ang magkabilang kamay ng isang Korina Sanchez. Kung gaano siya kahusay magtawid ng balita ay ganun din siya biniyayaan ng mga kamay na kayang bumuhay ng naghihingalo nang halaman, gawing kapaki-pakinabang na obra ang basura at bigyan ng magandang kulay ang malungkot na kapaligiran. Kakabugin niya sa galing niyang magbalot ng regalo ang mga taga-Rustan’s. Pandesal? Nagagawa niyang primera klaseng ensaymada yun kapag isinalansan na niya sa kahon at niribunan. Alagad ng sining si Korina Sanchez sa maraming dahilan at paraan. At ang unang katangiang mayroon ang isang alagad ng sining ay puso. Mabuhay ka, Korina Sanchez, maligayang kaarawan! Mahal kita.

49. Sr. Jo Nebres of Saint Theresa’s College, QC

The sisters at St. Theresa’s, her alma mater, are inspired by her very generous and inclusive attitude and spirit, that speaks of her as a Theresian carrying in her heart the legacy of St. Theresa of Avila who inspired us to seek always for the truth, the beautiful and the good. We are very happy and proud of her!

50. Mar Roxas, Ex-Boyfriend, Husband

Partner. Playmate. Parachute. My Forever!!!

Cedric Lee, Deniece Cornejo, et al and the Social Media

Image courtesy of www.dzmm.abs-cbnnews.com

The public and netizens have gladly welcomed the news on the arrest of suspects Cedric Lee and companion this morning. With the outpouring of public sympathy for the victim Vhong Navarro, netizens said that the news of the arrest meant that justice is slowly but surely moving for the the actor/host.

Fugitive businessman Lee and co-accused Zimmer Raz were arrested Saturdaymorning of April 26, in Oras, Samar.

The arrest of the two who were among those accused in the mauling of actor/tv host Vhong Navarro were conducted by the operatives of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Philippine National Police (PNP) Samar, and the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP). They will be brought to the NBI headquarters in Manila as soon as possible, according to Justice Secretary Leila de Lima in an interview over radio station DZBB early this afternoon.

Cedric and Zimmer, along with Lee’s sister Bernice, model Deniece Cornejo and several cohorts in the assault were charged with grave coercion and serious illegal detention, after they allegedly framed Navarro for raping Cornejo inside her condominium unit last January. Serious illegal detention is a non-bailable offense.

Earlier, Cornejo and Sajed “Jed” Fernandez Abuhijleh posted bail of P12,000 each for grave coercion raps filed by Navarro at the Taguig Metropolitan Trial Court.

The series of events began after the mauling of Vhong on January 22 in a unit in Forbeswood Heights, Taguig City. People were shocked and aghast when the bloodied and seriously injured Navarro appeared on television and narrated his ordeal before the horrified public.

Since then, the public's outpouring of sympathy for Vhong and outrage at Cedric, Deniece and company began to flood the social media. Fans and friends of Vhong in and out of showbiz, as well as various media organizations were one in saying that the incident should be seriously and hastily addressed fearing that the suspects - well connected and moneyed - would just play around with the law and elude prosecution.

There were alleged reports that the mauling of Vhong was not the first one attributed to Cedric and his men. Various names of popular actors such as John Lloyd Cruz and Jake Cuenca were also reportedly victimized by the group, to which the two, fearing the repercussions on their lives and career have reportedly paid up and kept mum on the matter. Pressed for comments after the Vhong incident, John Lloyd denied the rumor attributed to him.

What probably kept the authorities on their toes is that apart from it being a high profile case, tremendous pressure from the furious netizens who had relentlessly barraged the social media also did it in.

For the meantime, the alert public is not putting its guards down. If their strong sentiments on the Vhong, Cedric/Deniece, et al, incident have put pressure on the authorities, the public outrage on the rape of the country's coffers will spell the difference.

Next to watch out for - the Pork Barrel Saga and its alleged mastermind and beneficiaries - Janet Lim Napoles and the men in the halls of Congress.

In the Name of Pork, there are Other Napoleses Who Are Prostituting Themselves in Congress

Image courtesy of www.filipinostarnews.net

The pork barrel scam that Napoles and her ilk operated for decades has been likened to a Mafia that sucked the blood out of every Filipino till the blood was no more.

Janet Lim - Napoles started her trade in the 90’s. Other Scammers OS had been there before her, employing the same modus operandi, but Napoles overtook them by a mile obviously because she’s way smarter and gutsier.

Most OS start on a small scale, initially with a handful of Legislators/Mayors LM to keep them thriving. Through the years, the scheme has evolved to the extent that OS have multiplied in numbers big time. Older OS turn over their lucrative trade to their children (daughters) who of course have grown very familiar with the “business.” Other than daughters, female relatives who can be trusted enough may also carry on.

One can never say that there is conflict of supply (OS) and demand (PDAF). Not so, because the scheme’s driving force is the funds - more funds means more business.

Pork barrel funds aka people’s taxes are the fuel that keep the engine/scam running. Napoles and OS are ecstatic everytime they would learn of additional taxes to be imposed by the government (like E-Vat) or when they hear of other good news (high OFW deployment/remittances) because it means higher yield for them.

However, greed and competition from rival OS have forced some of them to be more creative with their craft to get ahead.

Napoles and OS allegedly employ Agents or Contractors AC to do their bidding. AC’s are pretty, some “artista” wannabe’s or losers in “artista search” contests, some are jobless nurses, too. Others are graduates of exclusive Catholic girls’ schools, who use their looks and glib of tonque to entice these legislators to do business with them.

There are also some AC’s who operate independently and opt to be their own boss. This way, they are in nobody’s control and can do anything as they please, capitalizing on their skills and pocketing 100% of the profits. They drive flashy cars, wearing branded clothes and bags, and looking nothing but professional. AC’s are regular fixtures in the halls of Congress.

HOW THEY OPERATE

OS give workshops or seminars to their AC’s where they are taught and trained on the technical aspects of the trade, including personality development and makeover. They are taught how to use their charms to entice and flirt with LM’s, handling rejection, to be aggressive, daring, and shameless.

Once finished with the training, an AC is set out to work. But first, she will do a profiling of her target LM’s– if he is bachelor or married, 1st termer or re-elected, along with their contact numbers, and other pertinent details. AC’s are very busy during elections monitoring results and eyeing on potential winners. Once the winning candidates are set, AC’s will start contacting them to introduce themselves and their “business.”

“Senator JV Ejercito told the committee that during his stint in the House, “there are times there are a lot of beautiful ladies around (sic).”
“We called them ‘livelihood girls’ because they were peddling livelihood projects,” he said, indicating that the women were asking lawmakers if they could fund the projects with their PDAF for possible kickbacks for both the proponents and the lawmakers.” - PDI

First-time legislators are AC’s preferred targets – naïve, accommodating, easily swayed. Indeed, these girls are like vultures ready to devour their prey. Some are smart, English-speaking, celebrity-looking girls.

AC will frequent an LM’s office, bringing with her expensive gifts like Rolex watches, Hermes or LV stuff, vacation/plane tickets, GC’s – anything to bribe LM to win him over.

AC’s interest is mainly LM’s pork, but along the way, during the course of the transaction, her agenda is also to hint at sexual favors - regardless if LM is married or not. The more ambitious of them long for "affair" with LM. This way, a deeper relationship is formed and cemented - an accomplishment that can assure AC of future pork funding to her bogus NGO’s.

When that is not accomplished, AC stalks LM- texting, calling relentlessly to make follow-up. Wherever LM is, the calls never stop - in the gym, in a meeting, at a restaurant. Very often, AC treats LM out for lunch, dinner, and a lot more – till he says yes. Or AC will use her special relationship with another LM to get him to endorse her to fellow LM’s she is eyeing.

Important occasions are a must to give them gifts, too - birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, Christmas, family milestones, whatever. AC won’t leave no stones unturned to obtain that precious yes from LM. Gifts must always impress – only the pricey stuff.

On their social media accounts, AC’s would post, “Done with Christmas shopping,” accompanied by pictures of the items/shopping bags from Rustan's, Birkins, LV, Rolex.

PORK BONANZA

During bidding, veteran AC’s allegedly control and call the shots, making it appear that they are “malakas” thereby intimidating the new AC’s that often result with them backing out from their bids. Essentially, it’s a really done deal.

When pork is released, AC or OS go to the projects’ so-called “beneficiaries” to take pictures with the people who will benefit in the alleged livelihood program or with pupils and teachers for a school feeding program. Everything is only for show just to have some hint of legitimacy.

The livelihood program would turn out to be a dud, while the school-feeding program would be a one-day feeding only.

For every NGO that got the LM’s pork, OS and AC stand to earn between Php200,000 to Php10Million.

No wonder that LM’s run after their pork that got awarded to an NGO even after their term had already expired believing that technically, the pork is theirs.

SYSTEMATIC LOOTING

Both LM and AC benefit tremendously from the deal: LM for kickbacks and sexual favors, AC for pork and perks. It is not surprising when AC requests LM for an 8-plate for her Explorer.

To be fair, not all LM’s succumb to the AC's modus operandi and carnal seduction. A handful of them is still decent and worthy of the position.

The AC’s permanent presence in the halls of Congress have alarmed some people. Aware of their agenda, the Congressional wives reportedly went to the higher-up to ask that these AC’s be banned from the premises. However, they were told that it could not be done because Congress is a public place.

PARTYLIST

Some partylist groups are also reportedly into the scam to recover election expenses, especially when they feel that they don’t stand a chance at getting re-elected. A partylist group once headed by a youth leader YL and now a government department head is one of these.

Any politically well-connected individual can aspire to profit from government funds. An Uncle UN of an ex-Celebrity-Politician CP capitalizing on CP’s top connections often dropped her name in his dealings, assuring the people he dealt with of 100% project completion once they signed up. When UN sensed that CP’s connection was about to crumble, he rushed some papers’ completion and have all the VIP signatures fixed, making sure that everything was set at the 11th hour. Soon after, CP was on her own, while UN was still smiling – a clear case of midnight deal, so to speak.

The Philippines is a rich country being made poor by the political thieves we repeatedly elect into office.

Corruption has reached mind-boggling proportions - the one big cause of extreme poverty in the country. If statistics are to be believed – almost 50% of our national budget goes to corruption. That’s nearly half of our P2.5Trillion 2014 budget – or close to P1Trillion that will finance the dizzying and obscene lifestyles of our Honorable Officials and their accomplices.

Do we still wonder why we are in this pit?

“Stand up. Be bold, be strong. All the strength and succor you want is within yourself. Therefore, you make your future.” ~ Swami Sivananda

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Solita Monsod vs Globe - Part 2

Source: Inquirer.net

How Globe Screwed Up Its PR Mileage by Spending Almost Half A Million Pesos Just to Force Smart to Make Money Off It

Source: www.asmartrock.wordpress.com

One of the telecommunications company in the world, Globe Telecom Philippines, has consistently fouled up its PR nightmares by mismanaging its, well, communications.

First, it wasn’t too long ago when Globe got entangled with the wit of Professor Solita Monsod, an eminent UP Professor, economist, and media personality when Prof. Monsod wrote a scathing column against the customer service of Globe.

After several days of silence, Globe finally responded with its own version of the truth via its Communications Director, using words and phrases like:

We regret that there may have been several unavoidable circumstances and a convergence of many factors that led to the delayed resolution of their concerns.

Convergence of many factors?

I’m sure the mass-based readers and followers of Prof. Monsod got that message right.

But at least that reply is certainly more Einstein than the recent snafu of Globe yet again. Globe decided to run a promotional campaign focusing on a foreign artist, which it has done so in the past. So far, so good.
Never mind the continued complaint of both prepaid and postpaid Globe subscribers regarding its terrible network coverage. As long as they’re putting up promotional concerts, they think, they’re good.

And after patting themselves on their collective backs, they decided to up themselves by sponsoring a concert junket for their lucky subscriber to an Alicia Keys concert in Madison Square Garden, New York City

Now this definitely takes the cake.

Prepaid users are targeted for this campaign: Two (2) Round-trip tickets to New York City, Two (2) Front Row (18th row) Seats to Alicia Keys’ concert, and Hotel Accommodation in New York for Two (2).

Imagine that.

They’re now aggressively promoting a high-end event to a very low-end market. But to add serious hilarity on the entire campaign, they raffled off the tickets to the winning recipient of Globe calls. The first winner did not pick up the phone. So did the second. And the third. And the fourth. Until the fifth finally received the call.

We have a winner. So far, so good. Unfortunately, the winner had neither a passport nor a US Visa, two important elements required for anyone to visit the United States of America to watch an Alicia Keys’ concert. But as a consolation, Globe did say that the prizes were transferable. And transfer the winner did.

The recipient of the winning junket got the prize and took the opportunity to fly out to New York. According to sources, Globe did not even bother to ascertain if the “new winners” are Globe subscribers as well. After all, you wouldn’t want to spend so much money on a contest where the winners are not even your subscribers and, worse, belong to your competitors.

Thankfully, however, the two had Globe lines and even requested that their international roaming services be opened and extended. Globe informed them that they should do this in writing with the specific approval of the president of the company to which they belong. This, they did.

But further to advancing to the missed opportunities of Globe, they also failed to take this rare photo-op of sending off their “winners” to the States, pronouncing to the entire country how much they value their subscribers.

By the time the two winners arrived in New York who, in a way, have become Globe’s Brand Ambassadors, get this: the international roaming service of Globe was not working.

The two sent another letter to Globe requesting to activate their roaming services, twice, to no avail. So not only did Globe miss out on a great PR opportunity, they also missed out on sales, in terms of recovering the investments they’ve made on the contest and, at the very least, from the two they sent out to space.

Meanwhile, the two were using the SMART Phone international roaming services and have already racked up Php 12,000, EACH.

In other words, SMART had a free ride on Globe’s contest and made money off it.

Now isn’t that pretty SMART?

A Breach of Children's Rights

Image courtesy of www.peta1.wordpress.com

A child is one of God's most priceless and beautiful creations, a source of pride and joy to the family. And as such, parents and/or guardians are responsible that the child's physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs are sufficiently met. Children are vulnerable and those entrusted for their care are responsible to protect them and keep them safe at all times.

But not all children are as privileged. Many of them are trapped into situations where their growth and rights as children are unjustly jeopardized. To date, more and more kids are becoming easy targets of abuse. In the Philippines, child workers are more often vulnerable to exploitation. And one area where this is commonplace is in the entertainment industry.

Children who work in entertainment, particularly those in show business are often subject to abuse, exploitation and discrimination, yet most of their elders and guardians don't know any better. They go unheard and this is wrong.

DOLE ( Department of Labor and Employment) a government organization that safeguards the rights of the working children (15 years old and below) against a working environment that is abusive - mentally, physically, socially or morally dangerous and harmful. This practice is considered exploitative.

Unfortunately, poverty is one significant barrier to children achieving their rights and being treated fairly. Television networks and movie companies are mostly guilty of the above. They know the rules , turn a blind eye, and violate them. What are considered violations of children's rights in local showbiz?

LONG WORK HOURS, mostly lasting till the next day can be very damaging, affecting the child's health, academic performance and adolescent behavior in the long term. Sleep is so important, that lack of it can adversely harm them for a long time.

TOO MUCH PRESSURE to deliver good/excellent performance from the director, the child's manager and guardians can wreak havoc on the child's still about-to-bloom personality.

In showbiz, children talents who do a serye or soap are exposed to an environment too large for their young minds to comprehend, not to mention the injustice being committed. The only difference is that children who are lead stars are given preferential treatment and enjoy more perks, vis a vis bit players and extras. *Children's rights apply equally to every child, regardless of who they are, or where they live.*

What am I talking about? Too often, poverty is the most significant factor why children and their parents decide to enter showbiz. Many are blinded and overwhelmed by stardom and the fame and fortune that go with it. Not realizing that it's just the surface that they're seeing. Showbiz starters are often shocked to see the reality behind the glitz and glamor. As newbies, both guardian and child never thought that work hours can entail so long, with very little pay to show for it. An average talent/extra can get anywhere from 500 to 800 or at most 1,000 pesos net per day for a taping or shoot that can last from 6am to 2am of the next day. Under such agonizing long hours, children extras are never given quarters where thay can sleep or even rest. Only big stars are provided with airconditioned tents for the purpose. Extras have to be creative to fend for themselves. They are fortunate if the location shoot is somewhere near comfortable like a big house for example. But what if it is in a forested area, or something like a farm?

There was an instance that an agent was tasked to bring in a truckful of extras for a big scene to be shot that day. The children extras arrived on the set at 7am. Early call time, but they were called to the scene at past 3pm already. What happened and where were they between 7am and 3pm, when the summer heat seemed like to melt one's flesh? They were just scattered around, some crowding under a tree to shield themselves from the scorching summer heat. Kids as young as 4 and 5 years old, were accompanied by their mothers or guardians, but who could only do so much. Sometimes babies get sick on the set, but the production people would not want them to go home because taping has to be finished that day. If you ask them why they allow their kids to go through this ordeal, the standard parent's reply, "This is better than staying at home with nothing. At least here, we are fed and paid, no matter how small." Sigh, indeed, beggars can't be choosers. Aren't you reminded of Marie Antoinette's "Let them eat cake?"

But isn't the above a clear expoitation, capitalizing on the plight of the poor, hapless children in exchange for crumbs?

"Sec. 12-D. Prohibition Against Worst Forms of Child Labor. - No child shall be engaged in the worst forms of child labor. The phrase "worst forms of child labor" shall refer to any of the following:
"(4) Work which, by its nature or the circumstances in which it is carried out, is hazardous or likely to be harmful to the health, safety or morals of children, such that it:
"b) Exposes the child to physical, emotional or sexual abuse, or is found to be highly stressful psychologically or may prejudice morals. "

Every network has a reputation amongst the myriad of issues happening in each "backyard." Network A is untrained but generous, network B is calculating but often misses. When it comes to advocacies, network C has probably the most. Yet one of them reeks of hypocrisy --- its children's welfare's loud talking should be matched with kilometric walking.

In its weekly tapings, this network C's popular program regularly engages the services of child extras. Aside from all the above abuses happening everytime, there's something more than meets the eye. Children are both exposed and subjected to verbal abuse -- oftentimes being shouted at at the slightest misdemeanor/mistake, by the production staff, making the helpless children nervous and fearful. During dramatic scenes where crying is required, they have devised a way to make the kid act accordingly -- threaten the child that if he would not cooperate, his mother or anyone in his family will be killed on the spot.

"Verbal assault - when an authority threatens or bullies the child and creates a climate of fear for the child. Terrorizing can include placing the child or the child’s loved one (such as a sibling, pet or toy) in a dangerous or chaotic situation, or placing rigid or unrealistic expectations on the child with threats of harm if they are not met."

Even if the shouting are sometimes not directed at them but to their agents/caregivers, still the trauma on the children cannot be over-emphasized.

Each taping requires dozens of scenes to get completed. And each scene would be repeated 5 to 6 times if they're lucky, and more if the director is fastidious and doesn't feel satisfied. Child extras who usually have no formal acting workshops find this practice really excruciating. You factor in everything that happens as stated above, and you get a picture of a child who gets severely "beaten" psychologically, mentally, and physically.

"Douglas Besharov states in Recognizing Child Abuse: A Guide for the Concerned, “Emotional abuse is an assault on the child’s psyche, just as physical abuse is an assault on the child’s body”(1990). Children who are constantly ignored, shamed, terrorized or humiliated suffer at least as much, if not more, than if they are physically assaulted. Danya Glaser (2002) finds that emotional abuse can be “more strongly predictive of subsequent impairments in the children’s development than the severity of physical abuse.” Constant exposure to verbal abuse tears a child's self-esteem."

Sometimes, the abuses committed against these kids also stem from the pressures on the production to come up with a product that's excellent, fast and finished with the LEAST production cost.

Network C has foundation focused on child welfare program that not only "saves and restores back to good health sick and abused children, but also gives shelter, treatment and quality home care for rescued children until they can be with their families again or referred to child-caring agencies. It has the following services: training and advocacy on child abuse prevention, rehabilitation of families in crisis, academic scholarships, livelihood, community outreach and medical and dental missions." Are DOLE officials aware that this very tenet is being broken by the very people who are supposed to uphold them?

I used to admire network C for I thought that it is THE face of children's refuge and well-being. But their clouded principles and total apathy smashed that illusion.

"Everything you say and do to a child is absorbed, catalogued and remembered."

Please abide by the RULES in writing comments if you want them to be posted. Initials and comments that are too explicit will not be accepted.

Follow micsylim on Twitter for the latest update. Please continue to send your juicy stories to michaelsylim@gmail.com. Thank you very much for loving Fashion PULIS.

Enjoy updating my blog using my new I-PAD powered by SMART BRO!


Sources:
http://www.lawphil.net/statutes/repacts/ra2003/ra_9231_2003.html
http://www3.hants.gov.uk/childrens-services/childrenandyoungpeople/child-protection/child-abuse.htm
http://www.thefamilyinternational.org/en/children-hope-future/

The Retokadas

Image courtesy of www.coastdocuments.com

The huge premium bestowed on good looks has made the business of beauty and wellness a multi-billion dollar worldwide phenomenon.

A few decades ago, cosmetic enhancement was considered as a taboo subject, a tightly-guarded secret of movie stars and wealthy socialites. But several years back, people have become more open and accepting toward cosmetic enhancement, and even your average John and Jane have candidly admitted undergoing procedures. Today, it seems that there is a solution for almost every conceivable skin or figure flaw.

Some teens go through it mostly for health reasons, while others, prefer it just like how it is for the older patients - wanting to enhance their self-esteem. A teenage girl with an extremely big nose who is called Pinocchio and is a butt of jokes in school and a double-D breasted 16-year old who finds it hard to exercise or even walk are usual candidates for the procedure. But other than these, it maybe ill-advised. The thing is to make sure that the teen is emotionally and physically mature enough to undergo the chosen procedure.

On the local front, the Philippines is likewise far from being left behind in terms of technical advancements and modern facilities available. Such that more privileged Filipinos are also into cosmetic enhancements, young and old alike.

Today’s youth are a lot bolder and more adventurous in many ways especially in matters that concern their appearance. And lately, more and more of these come from the movie industry. Nowhere in the years before would you hear of any showbiz star as young as 18 go through these procedures in the hope of clinching more projects and endorsements, gain more fans and acceptability.

Apparently, their own management and/or network tolerate them, and if rumors are to be believed, even encourage them to have these procedures. The gullibility and excitement of these stars to have a brand-new look is really disturbing. But that excitement is nowhere to be found when they are pressed for answers to procedures done on them.

Take these three major female stars of a major network. These stars allegedly patronize the services of a doctor for their cosmetic concerns. This low-profile surgeon is not as popular and prominent as other celebrity doctors.

Star A is confirmed to have had series of operations from her nose, cheeks, breast and had a fold in her eyes to make it look big and dramatic. Sources say she had that boob job for the sake of an ex-boyfriend thinking she could win him back. But sad to say, it was too late since handsome ex-bf was already seeing other women outside of showbiz.

Star B had her nose slightly fixed to add bridge and narrow edges and had taken skin whiteners, too. Her last and also her major enhancement was when she had her breasts done. The change is so obvious and she continues to flaunt them by wearing outfits that show off her new assets.

Star C had one too many reconstructions on her body that it has already become a habit. Like some sort of an addiction - breast, eyes, cheeks, chin, teeth, liposuction, overdose of glutathione, lips. Her latest and the most controversial is that one on her nose which had undergone more than one procedure that it has already gone "haywire," so to speak. Her nose has become too long and thin that it has already altered her face.

All stars from A to C have another one thing in common 'though. For all the very obvious alterations they have done on their bodies and faces, no one, as in NO ONE had dared owned up to them. In short and in truth, all three are in denial!

Star A says she doesn't believe in cosmetic surgery. She once said, " Real beauty is not just about physical. For me, if you're a kind person, you become beautiful. If you believe you're beautiful, then you don't have to change anything." Her defender even said that Star A's boobs appear that way because she's wearing wired brassiere that lifts and makes her breasts look bigger and better. But people contend that for such a skinny person to have that sudden big bulk infront of her is clearly baloney, you think?

Star B who is often bashed for her negative attitude towards her fans and co-stars alike is also into the denial habit. She who is ever so vain and conscious of her looks and image had repeatedly denied undergoing all the rumored procedures on her body. Like Star A, she was into every inconceivable cover-ups to justify everything she wants hidden. Once she was quoted saying that the type of brassieres she was wearing could be the reason why her breasts look bigger. Oh well, just how original can that be?

But Star C who tops them all with her unlimited enhancements doesn't confirm nor deny she ever had them. Even her long-time boyfriend was non-commital when pressed for answers. Perhaps she may be thinking of that most-abused cliche, "What you see is what you get." To which her critics would retort back, " Oh yeah right, you are not Pinocchio for nothing, eh?"

Just what makes these stars and others like them to have the gall to deny everything that is so downright obvious is beyond their fans and the viewing public. Cosmetic enhancement had long been accepted as an option especially in the entertainment industry. And it is exactly for this reason why they do it in the first place. Then why deny? Are they into delusions that they can fool the public into believing everything they say, hook, line and sinker? True, they are entitled to some privacy, but anyone who wants the public's attention must accept public scrutiny of their actions. After all, we didn't ask them into our lives --- for fame and monetary gain, they came voluntarily and impose themselves on us.

To whom it may concern: Lying is a skill that can not be stretched to its snapping point.

TV5, Its Stars and Shows - What's Ahead?

It was just two years ago when TV5 under a new and aggressive control of businessman Manny Pangilinan made a grand debut on Philippine television. What happened after the launch made a big impact on everyone in the industry - insiders, players and observers. Not to mention, the network rivals who did not see the cash giant coming. For people behind TV5 began talking to stars and their managers to offer deals that were just too hard to resist. Star piracy became a daily buzz word and order of the day. For truly, they walked the talk, and the industry was jolted like never before. TV5 projected an endless cash flow image to whoever it sees fit to engage in their network.

Stars and their managers were all agog, quick to the draw, sending feelers that they were available for a deal of a lifetime. And who wouldn't be blown away by sky-high talent fees, four to seven times bigger, laid beautifully before anyone willing to be tempted.

And so it went. Stars, both popular and has-been knocked at MVP's door, signed up and were stamped a new name - Kapatid, TV5's new catchword. Soon they were given projects, and cameras began rolling. Everyone was happy and excited. Everything was just too good to be true. TV5 produced shows for their new talents. But it ended there.

After two years, came the painful, horrifying truth: TV5 is losing money - by the billions. The reason is a dead give-away: hardly anyone is watching their shows. Rating is single digit. No audience. No advertisers. Their stars remain unpopular, and worse, those whose stars were still shining prior to the transfer have dimmed soon after. What gives?

With the exception of some: Talentadong Pinoy, Who Wants to be a Millionire, Face-to-Face, the rest of TV5 programs leave a lot to be desired. One viewer's collective assumption says it all: "Shows are stupid, mediocre, shallow, lack creativity and are devoid of quality. TV5 is banking on the idea that all Filipinos are stupid and poor."

Suddenly it dawned on everyone that it's not just the stars that guarantee network profitability. Indeed, some serious thought could have been done prior to executing major decisions. They focused on contracting has-beens at mind-boggling talent fees, but forgot to hire competent minds to run and get the shows going. That was the biggest blunder. No production can make a show succeed if it lacks the skills of brilliant and creative writers, talented directors, and all the right minds that will ensure the quality and content of the program. Otherwise, the show is doomed.

Stars have to be packaged with utmost caution and foresight, to know their professional strengths and weaknesses not just give them projects without thought and study. They should be given regular workshops to further hone and fine-tune their skills. Competition is getting harsher by the day, no one is sacred to be spared.

Rival networks like ABS-CBN and GMA invest so much in their talents and creatives. Not only are workshops done on a regular basis - both the shows and the stars - especially those from Kapamilya are aggressively marketed locally and globally. These translate to not a few endorsements and international projects for the deserving ones.

The planned buying/merging with GMA7 sounds not a brilliant idea if done for the wrong reasons. Doing it to limit and restrain the competition may not be good enough as everyone knows how globally well-placed, unstoppable and aggressive ABS-CBN can be.

What TV5 should do instead is to hire the best minds and pay them accordingly. Along with directors, it's about time that writers, these unsung heroes, are given their just dues.

What about the stars' gargantuan talent fees? I should say that anything or any work that is solely motivated by money will not bring in the best desired results. Proof? It's so close to home, no further proof is needed.

That is why their upcoming star search called Artista Academy with yet another mind-boggling twenty million-peso pot for the top prize sounds like another disaster and embarrassment waiting to happen. Nothing, certainly not the lure of that kind of money can bring out the best talent in anyone, unless talent is properly motivated, nurtured and expertly handled.

We really wish the best for TV5. Mr. Pangilinan has definitely shown to one and all how astute and great a businessman he is. May all his tv investments bear good fruits, in terms of acquiring the best talents and people in the industry.

And these people should better be sure that they deserve to be housed in that P6 billion worth of new TV5 corporate headquarters and studios soon to be completed within the year.

Thank you, Dolphy.

Image courtesy of www.eripplescebu.com

Rodolfo Vera Quizon brought life and laughter to several generations for sixty long and fun-filled years. We all grew up with the man who has remained humble and fun to his final dying days.

He was 83, would have been 84 had he made it to his birthday on July 25. He had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and died from cardiac arrest at 8:34pm last night at Makati Medical Center.

He danced, he sang, he acted to our hearts' content. Our parents and grandparents had only good things to say of the man who entertained and made them laugh when internet, twitter and facebook were not even in anyone's consciousness.

We grew up knowing John Puruntong, the generation after me will remember him as Kevin Cosme. He lived through 10 Philippine Presidents from Quirino to PNoy. All had nothing but only good words for the King of Comedy.

Sixty years of non-stop entertaining is a tough act to follow for the man who was at the top of his game, yet remained humble and real till the very end.

Behind the camera, he helped people quietly, without fanfare. He gave till it hurt. He was loved. To people whose lives he had touched, Dolphy was a friend, a father, an angel.

Thank you for the memories. There's nothing we can offer but prayers that you find peace in the after life. You will be greatly missed, that's for sure. Millions will cry. But your legacy will stand out. Forever it will only be... DOLPHY.

The Impeachment That was - That's Entertainment

Image courtesy of www.truthonair.com

The recently-concluded impeachment trial of former Chief Justice Renato Corona was one for the books, an ultimate spectacle, depending on whose side you took. Truly, it's only in the Philippines that something as serious would still elicit entertainment from both the trial participants and the audience that religiously followed them. The 40-day teleserye had it both - drama and comedy - with all its attendant stars and villains.

Whose heart would not melt at the sight of the embattled Renato Corona narrating his family's very humble "no aircon and no househelp" lifestyle. Oh, that's so very Ripley's believe it or not. Come on, Mr. Corona, your fabulous wife would have beaten you to death long ago had you subjected her to these. You think your crocodile tears which fall at whim would work magic just like that? Remember that even the "unscripted" reconciliation with the Basa's did not impact as expected...yes, inspite of Mrs. Corona and the sisters's facebook smiles.

The ex-Chief Justice looked so pathetic while justifying his financial genius in a tearful three-hour monologue which he capped with a walkout. His refusal to be cross-examined led him to ask to be "excused" as the Chief Justice - the nerve. And why would the sweet sugar be the culprit, I just don't get it. Is that a mountain on a molehill? But still, I admire the guy for coming to his senses, thanks to his sugar-coated excuse. He regrettably returned riding in the most abused vehicle of the decade - the wheelchair.

And what about Corona's surprise nemesis for the day that did a litany of his many "palusot?" No other than bar topnotcher and deputy lead prosecutor Congressman Rudy Farinas. He definitely brought the house down with his brilliantly crafted revelations, matched with his sterling delivery and "maka-masa" Pinoy talk. Move over, Bong, Jinggoy and Erap - while you probably have the acting talent to boot, you can never have his skill. Farinas asked Corona how on earth would he think of buying dollars in 1949 when he was in Grade 4? Wow, that's Ripley's take two for me and you. And ohmaygas, there were so many countless Ripley's that followed thereafter. Farinas did savor his moment before his very approving audience. For his 15-minute fame, people have suddenly forgotten his Velez and Carlson love chapters. Uh oh, have we?

And oh Miriam, the unforgettable Senator Miriam Defensor "unlimited talk" Santiago? Her funny pick-up lines would have saved the day for the mostly impatient and irritated public. For the nth time, the feisty senator was mean to her audience - as she ruthlessly tortured them to listen to her scream, err -- speech. It was to her great advantage that her good friend, Atty. Vitaliano "hear no evil" Aguirre chose to behave that day. Otherwise, there would have been more angry bubbles floating in the air. And so, she did it again, her shameless self-promotion she had mastered to the hilt, making everyone, even the original Muhammad Ali cringed: I AM THE GREATEST AND ALL OF YOU ARE FOOLS!! Haha!

On the other hand, Senator Lito "picha pie" Lapid probably had the best moment of all, more than enough to gather admirers for his unparalled humility to admit his intellectual and scholastic limitations. A high school graduate judging a sitting Chief Justice of the Supreme Court was an ultimate nightmare he didn't think was coming, "Whew, pinagpawisan ako dun," was his reaction after explaining his vote.

Makes you want to think - MIRIAM and LAPID are senate seatmates. What do they talk about? But certainly, Miriam can learn a thing from Lapid on how to effortlessly trend on twitter worldwide. And for that helluva feat - he deserves the recognition. Bravo Leon Guerero!

And as one reader asked, what about the BAD senators - Bongbong, Arroyo and Defensor? Well, can others do the answering, pls? Kidding aside, I commend the three for standing up to their principles. Mr. Corona owes them big really. At least, he was not orphaned.

Finally, the impeachment presiding officer and defense lead cousel Juan Ponce Enrile and retired Justice Serafin Cuevas, respectively - what can I say? I'm stoned and speechless. If all 80 plus gentlemen have their briliant memory, Gingko Bilova will definitely run out of business. Eat your heart out, kuya Kim! Pray that these two legends will not decide to screw you up, or you, too, would be out of business.

That's it, folks. That's entertainment for you. Impeachment style. Only from our beloved Philippines.

The Enigma of a Gaga

Image courtesy of www.nation.com.pk

The Gaga is a Lady. Oh yes, she is eccentric, flamboyant, fearless, and to her Filipino fans -- she's real, a Gaga by their definition. An artist who rose to fame for her diverse taste in music and outlandish fashion. And they go gaga over her, tagging her every performance as beyond the best, and her every word downright quotable. Who can argue with that?

Worldwide, Lady Gaga’s music and presence never fail to stir controversy in a huge way. Her bizzare stage performances are often subjects to criticisms and ridicule. Her Born This Way Ball Tour sparked debates from people of all persuasions - religion, politics, entertainment. And just about every Tom, Dick and Harry, too. Locally, it is also the limelight-seeking politicians who dip their already dirty fingers to every issue one can imagine. But often than not, it's the the religious communities who feel strongly against her. They label Lady Gaga and her music as blasphemous, disrespectful, profane. Guys, have you heard of freedom called expression?

These people protest that her songs' lyrics are too offensive and provocative for comfort. They believe their fear that her huge influence will make the youth astray and be menace to society. They claim that she is a devil doing satanic rituals on the pretext of music. Oh, my foot!

But why this violent reaction over Lady Gaga? Why didn’t we protest about other foreign artists who were here before her, whose image and music were likewise as controversial, if not dubious? What made her so ‘special’ to deserve a boycott? Oh well, so much over-acting for nothing. Or so much ignorance.

Wasn't Lady Gaga the one who put up a foundation to empower the youth, who was the first to stand up and raised millions to help Japan and Haiti after the devastating earthquakes, who joined MAC to support people living with aids, and the list goes on? Is this now the new definition of devil?

And who are these supposed judges of Gaga's character? Have you ever filled even half her shoes? Please stand up and be counted.

Since when did it happen that listening to love songs will make you fall in love, exposure to religious songs will make you godly, and listening to Gaga’s Judas song will make you satanic?

Where is reason in justfying that the young people should not watch and hear her? Hello? Have you heard of internet, of youtube? If your daughter goes and chooses to follow the Lady, don't blame the Gaga, blame yourself who raised her.

I happened to be lucky enough to watch her concert on its first day here in Manila. Up close, I saw the fire in her, the passion I never knew before. To say that she is fabulous is a gross understatement. The sold-out concert was an ultimate experience. Her audience was devoted, and like her, was brave and daring. What drew them to Lady Gaga was her fab persona, her fearlessness to express herself. She is bold, captivating, defiant. She was aware of the boycott and addressed those concerned, "I am not a creature of your government, Manila!" That sent goose bumps all over.

For the Lady, it’s all about you, yourself and living it. "People need to be free, to be who they are." And that's enough inspiration for her fans whom she calls her Little Monsters.

To the skeptics, we hope you open that box - behind Lady Gaga's outrageous image is a person who cares about the world, the youth. For the Gaga, it’s not always about the music. It’s all about you - us. Our insecurities and fears hold us back, but she says that we should embrace it all. No escape, no excuse. Because rightly or wrongly, like it or not - we were born this way.

Celebrities Heat Up Social Media

Image courtesy of www.getitfromboy.net

Caught part of the new Sharon Cuneta show on TV5. I was quite surprised with her opening that pointed to her twitter bashers (again?) of months ago. She explained why she did what she did, even showing on the screen the ruthless tweets/messages she got from her haters. Sharon's act was quite a telling image of someone who to this day has not yet recovered from the brouhaha that she herself was largely to blame for. Thirty four years in the business and she still has the face of the uninitiated, oh dear!

Stars and celebrities should be aware that there will always be consequences to their every move, esp in public. 'Public' in this very techie world also refers to social media, which also means social network sites like twitter and facebook. How you publicly conduct yourself tells a ton about who you are. These sites provide everyone the platform to air, vent, express themselves about just anything. But nothing so easy comes without a price. For celebrites that they are, are subjects to fair game, a "free-for-all," any day, anytime...always. By joining these sites, stars or not, you open yourself up to be publicly scrutinized to the very core of your being.

The very popular twitter has been invaded by numerous nameless and faceless people hiding behind disguises or anonymity. A great number of them thrive mostly on bashing and demeaning celebrities, cutting them down to pieces - the more popular, the better. They gloat when their target celeb gets affected and reply to them in self-defense. These bashers' mission for the day is accomplished when stars react, and get mad in the process. It gives them that ultimate high - the power to level up.

But why give it to them? Why cheapen yourself by reacting? Your biggest blunder is to empower these people. Do not dignify their existence - it kills them. Why not choose to live in peace? Ignore. That's what 'sensible and thinking' stars do. Don't be a loser. No need to complicate your already complicated life. Now, if you have tons of time to waste in your hands, and choose to counter your haters' every tweet, then your being a fool will be your very downfall. Ultimately, who gets burned?

Yet never too late for the twinkling star to get out of the hot kitchen...quick.