Showing posts with label bb. pilipinas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label bb. pilipinas. Show all posts

Sunday, June 24, 2012

Songs about rain


Fer Mary Baliquig joins Miss World Phl 2012
Baliquig Credit: Stephanie Tumampos 
Fer Mary Baliquig is one of the 25 official candidates who will have the chance to walk away with the 2012 Miss World Philippines crown tonight, June 24, at the grand coronation night at the Manila Hotel.

The Boholana beauty who thankfully swore never to say die is one of the early favorites of Miss World-Philippine bets.

“She is very unassuming and a very nice girl devoid of any pretensions, hopefully she can make it,” said one MWP insider.

Fer has good pageant experience aside from her Bb. Pilipinas attempt: she was 1st runner-up in the Miss Bohol Sandugo 2010 and winner of Miss Tagbilaran 2010.

The Miss World Philippines 2012 pageant will be hosted by 1993 Miss World Second Princess Ruffa Gutierrez and Edu Manzano, aired live by TV5 starting at 8:30 p.m.
***
For the farmers, the rainy season is the start of the planting season. Those who have un-irrigated lands will soon be showered with rainwater, giving them the signal to prepare their farmlands for their planting activities. I saw this in Lila, Duero and other towns when I had my countryside tour yesterday. The scene of rice planting was a sight to behold which overflows with sweetness, hope and optimism like that of the paintings of Fernando Amorsolo.

Did you know that there are more than hundreds of thousands of songs about rain and storms? And hearing songs about rain while it’s coming down make you feel less alone. Early morning rain is refreshing and cleansing, and at night time, the steady rhythm of the rain sound is calming and sleep inducing, right?
                                                                                         
Besides the nursery rhyme Rain Rain Go Away, my first favorite song about rain was Rain popularized by Donna Cruz when I was in elementary. It was my favorite because of its simple “sing-able” melody and haunting lyrics... Rain gently falls whenever we say goodnight, falling like when you’re out of sight, rain follows me even in my bed, and rain is the tears that I shed… there will be no sunshine in my life until you say your mine oh mine…..all the kids in the old neighborhood knew the song and I hummed it all the time while taking a bath, doing my homework, rushing to school and especially when I was feeling blue.


I stumbled upon other old and familiar songs about rain and storms when I was youtubing like It Will Rain (Bruno Mars) because it’s Ulan (Rivermaya) and you get Basang-basa sa Ulan (Aegis). So better bring an  Umbrella (Rihanna). It’s About To Rain (Neil Young) because it’s Rainy Days and Mondays (The Carpenters). And On A Rainy Night (Shawn Mullins), Baby The Rain Must Fall (Glenn Yarbrough). Other people hate the rain because it’s Bad Rain (Allman Brothers Band) and Blame It On the Rain (Milli Vanilli) others Can’t Stand The Rain (Missy Elliott). During school days, people are praying Don’t Rain On My Parade (Barbra Streisand), while others go the monastery to offer eggs to Rain Rain Go Away (Bobby Vinton). Yesterday I Heard The Rain (Dionne Warwick/Tony Bennett) during Early Morning Rain (Gordon Lightfoot), Here Comes The Rain Again (Eurythmics). At night, I Love The Rain (Lenny Kravitz) and Singin’ In The Rain (Gene Kelly). There is nothing more calming and sleep inducing than the steady Rhythm of the Rain (The Cascades) on virtually within earshot…and I love Listen To The Rain ( Evanescence) and think to go Naked In The Rain (Red Hot Chili Peppers). My friends are happy because It’s Raining Men ( The Spice Girls/The Weather Girls)! Kiss Me In The Rain ( Barbara Streisand) because After The Rain (Nelson), After The Rain Has Fallen (Sting), I Made It Through The Rain (Barry Manilow).

Okay, all together now (for these timeless and classic songs about rain):

Rhythm of the Rain by The Cascades
Listen to the rhythm of the falling rain
Telling me just what a fool I've been
I wish that it would go and let me cry in vain
And let me be alone again

The only girl I care about has gone away
Looking for a brand new start
But little does she know
That when she left that day
Along with her she took my heart

Rain please tell me now does that seem fair
For her to steal my heart away when she don't care
I can't love another when my hearts somewhere far away

Rain won't you tell her that I love her so
Please ask the sun to set her heart aglow
Rain in her heart and let the love we knew start to grow

Oh, listen to the falling rain
Pitter pater, pitter pater
Oh, oh, oh, listen to the falling rain
Pitter pater, pitter pater








Crying In The Rain by The Everly Brothers
I'll never let you see
The way this broken heart is hurting me
I've got my pride
And I know how to hide
All the sorrow and pain
I'll do my crying in the rain

If I wait for cloudy skies
You won't know the rain from the tears in my eyes
You'll never know
That I still love you so
Though the heartaches remain
I'll do my crying in the rain

Raindrops falling from Heaven
Could never wash away my misery
Since we're not together
I pray for stormy weather
Raindrops falling from Heaven
Could never wash away my misery
Since we're not together
I pray for stormy weather
To hide these tears I hope you never see

Some day when my crying's done
I'm gonna wear a smile and walk in the sun
I may be a fool
But 'til then darling you'll
Never see me complain
I'll do my crying in the rain
To hide these tears I hope you never see








Raindrops Keep falling on my head by B.J. Thomas
Raindrops keep falling on my head
And just like the guy whose feet are too big for his bed
Nothin' seems to fit
Those raindrops are falling on my head, they keep falling

So I just did me some talkin' to the sun
And I said I didn't like the way he' got things done
Sleepin' on the job
Those raindrops are falling on my head, they keep falling

But there's one thing I know
The blues he sends to meet me won't defeat me
It won't be long till happiness steps up to greet me

Raindrops keep falling on my head
But that doesn't mean my eyes will soon be turnin' red
Crying's not for me
Cause I'm never gonna stop the rain by complainin'
Because I'm free
Nothing's worrying me




***
Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohan at Twitter or email at Facebook.

Sunday, May 6, 2012

Ebone Cimafranca wins Miss Teen Tagbilaran 2012

Anyag 2012 candidates
FLASH REPORT: The Anyag sa Tubigon 2012 committee announced that Star Magic’s Matteo Guidicelli will grace the affair to serenade the lovely candidates on May 13. The event will be hosted by Mr. Cebu 2009 Kris Nimrod Cabigas and Bb. Pilipinas- World 2006 Anna Maris Igpit.
 
“Don't miss this opportunity to witness ABS-CBN's hottest talent in celebrating TANDA Festival with us,” says Raymond Delgado, erstwhile Tubigon’s Queen of All Media.
 
The Anyag crown is designed by a famous Cebuano jeweler Alpio Saban and it was donated by Manila Vice-Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno" Domagoso.
 
“May is not just a fiesta season; it's also a pageant season. Anyag still maintains its show mantra, quality, quality , quality...it's all about quality of showmanship and our theme is ‘contemporary beauty",” adds Raymond.

Tickets are Php 200.00 (ring side) and Php 100.00 (general admission).

For reservations, you may come and visit the Tubigon Tourism Culture Arts and Heritage Office or contact us at (038) 508-8496.
 
Anyag sa Tubigon 2011 Lori Geisha Cabrera will relinquish her crown to the new winner (12 candidates are vying for the crown) on May 13. Credit: Ryan Macalandag
***
That Mary Ebone Calimbayan Cimafranca is more than just a pretty face is amply proven by the Miss Teen Tagbilaran 2012 crown and Miss Photogenic, Best in Casual Wear, Best in Swimsuit and Best in Gown awards during the Miss Teen Tagbilaran just held recently in the City of Friendship.
 
Ebone Cimafranca
That Mary Ebone Calimbayan Cimafranca gives a straight answer that her mother is her role model.
 
“For me, the greatest woman would be my mother. Not only because she has supported me all throughout my life, but since before school she has taught me moral values which I can apply at home and in school,” says Ebone during the pageant’s Q and A portion.
 
“And I know that without my mother, I wouldn't be the strong and confident woman that I am today,” adds the 16-year-old lass from Poblacion 1 whom Bared has interviewed after winning the crown facilitated by Bohol’s fashion icon EJ Relampagos ( EJ’s boutique is located at 51 Pamaong Ext., Cogon District, Tagbilaran City, Cell No:  09498383173, Tel. No: 416-1184), Ebone’s stylist and manager.  
 
Her parents, Engr. Cresente and Maria Eva Cimafranca (nee Calimbayan), are very proud of their daughter’s achievement.
 
An Aries (March 31), Ebone stands 5’6”, weighs 113 lbs., measures 36-25-36, and wears small-size shirt and size-8.5 shoes. She finished high school last March at Holy Spirit School-Tagbilaran and she’s planning to take up broadcast journalism in Miriam College.
 
She has more to say.
 
How would you convince people here and abroad that it’s more fun in Bohol?
“I would use the medium of information that is prominent to us teenagers of today which is social media. I would showcase the true beauty of Bohol to everyone and I'll see to it that tourism can be promoted here in God's little paradise.”
 
Should transgender be allowed to compete in beauty contests for women?
“I don't have any problems with transgender people, because I consider them very loving, fun, and sensible. In my own opinion, if the person has passed the requirements to be a woman or to be a candidate, why not?”
 
If that’s the case, how would you prove that you are more female than transgender?
“I am more female than transgender since I possess true womanhood and femininity in myself. And I have this certain edge over men which is my wonderful capability to bear a life in my own body.”
 
What do you think does the world needs most right now?
“I think the world needs love and prayers. With all the wars and calamities happening right now, I believe there is still hope. And if there is love in the community and sincere prayers from our hearts, the world would be a more colorful one.”
 
What is your favorite quote?
"Everyone is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid." By Dr. Seuss
Miss Teen Tagbilaran 2012 Mary Ebone Calimbayan Cimafranca with her manager and stylist EJ Relampagos and supporters. Contributed Photo
 
How's your love life?
“I am not into any intimate relationship as of now since I think it’s a distraction for me towards my studies. And I think it’s still inappropriate for me to engage in such, since I'm still a minor.”
 
What do you find sexy in a man?
“Confidence. If a man has confidence in himself, his other aspects don't matter as long as he is proud of the man that he is. That, I find very sexy.”
 
And what turns you off?
“A man who has low self esteem in himself, a man who cannot even be proud of what and who he is.”
 
As Miss Teen Tagbilaran, what qualities of the Tagbilaranon youth would you highlight?
“The oneness of our Tagbilaranon youth and their love for our city.”
 
Young people today are liberated and adventurous, willing to try everything. What's your stand on pre-marital sex?
“I strongly believe that it is against our moral values as teenagers to engage in such intimate activity. Sex is a sacred union only for a certain married couple. However, as I have observed, teenagers of today have been lured by lust and such act has become very prominent.”
 
If you were somebody else, who would you like to be and why?
“I think it would be fun to be Kate Middleton... being young, educated and carefree. I want to know the feeling of how is it to be a princess. I'd love to relive that moment when I first watched a Cinderella movie.”
 
Describe yourself in three words.
“Sensible, God-fearing, and Loving.”
 
What is your greatest inspiration?
“The love and support that my family has given to me ever since. They have always been there for me and they have been the driving force of my life.”
 
What is the essence of being Miss Teen Tagbilaran?
“The essence of being Miss Teen Tagbilaran is not only about beauty, talent and personality, it is the responsibility bestowed on me to give hope and inspire my fellow teenagers that this is a wonderful world for us to nurture and love not hate and destroy.”
 
 
***
Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohan at Twitter/ Facebook.

Monday, April 16, 2012

Zeneline Bulalaque: Another Boholana beauty in Miss Philippines-Earth

Wake-uppers:
Scene: The Bb. Pilipinas 2012 will finally announce the winners of its most prestigious beauty titles— Bb. Pilipinas-Universe, Bb. Pilipinas-International and Bb. Pilipinas-Tourism tonight, April 15, at the Big Dome (covered live by ABS-CBN). We wish good luck to Karen Gallman (# 1) and Fer Mary Baliquig (# 24)!
 
Scene: Congratulations to Rhea Mae Arcales of Bohol Wisdom School for winning 2nd place in editorial writing English category (elementary division) in the National Schools Press Conference (NSPC) held in Puerto Princesa, Palawan on April 9-13.  Rhea’s coach is Billy Cosares. This piece of good news is relayed to Bared by DepED City Division ES1 Filipino Supervisor Dodong Almedilla.
                                   
                                                            ***
Another Boholana beauty who will wear on her sash Municipality of Batuan, Bohol, in this year’s Miss Philippines-Earth, is Zeneline Ancog Bulalaque.
 
Beauty watchers have described her as drop-dead gorgeous, every inch queenly.
 
Miss Philippines-Earth 2012 Candidate No. 6 Zeneline Bulalaque from the Municipality of Batuan, Bohol.   
Photo Courtesy: Glenn Tumanda Gamayot of Glennboi Photography
Make-Up Artist: Cana Apale
 Gown: Tracy Remolador Torres




“Look closely,” she would tell you, “Yes. I am very proud to say that I am definitely and absolutely original. Nothing touched, nothing changed.
 
Born to Lino and  Zeniza Bulalaque, Zeneline described her childhood full of epic and remarkable adventures. Her official bio on Miss Philippines-Earth says: “I would never ever trade it for anything else and it will never be forgotten. I used to climb mountains and old trees that were so huge. I fished in a pond far from home, I went highway biking using a motorbike, I cooked coconut bits in a mini forest, I ate sour stalks and I played ‘bahay-bahayan’ on a little bridge just beside Batuan highway.”
 
Her environmental advocacy is "Tree-planting for both land and sea." 
 
A Gemini (June 1, 1991), Zeneline is taking up Occupational Therapy at Cebu Doctors' University. She stands 5’6” and measures 33-25-36.

How does it feel being included in the Miss Philippines-Earth 2012 Top 50?
“Being included in the top 50 of Miss Philippines-Earth gave me the feeling of integrity, feeling of responsibility and service and most of all, it gave me the feeling of happiness, fulfilment and excitement that, this will just be a start of another journey and a new chapter in my life.”

What motivated you or who inspired you or what made you decide to join Miss Earth Philippines?
“I am proud to say the only thing that I had upon deciding to join Miss Philippines-Earth was my inner heartfelt motivation and determination to join. When I had the form, one thing was pumping on my mind  was ‘I want to join. I want to know how is it to be there. There's nothing wrong in trying anyway.’ I am inspired about how the way I think about myself now (not in an arrogant way of course) but, I used to be a low self-esteem, introvert girl way back high school it wasn't really obvious because I suck it up and leave it to my heart to adjust.  But it changed now. I am inspired by my deeds and how I worked hard to attain real confidence in me. I just thought that maybe I could do more. I can do this, so now here I am!” 
 
What are your preparations for the Miss Philippines-Earth?
“The things that I had my self prepared with is my knowledge. I have been researching and studying about the essentials of the environment as well as keeping tract to current issues that might be having effects to the our earth especially here in our country, Philippines. I am also going in depth upon reading articles about eco-tourism of Bohol and Batuan. I have also been preparing my body and my mind like being physically fit for the competition, and also by putting up a cognitive picture that things will never be the same when I get there. I am already resilient and flexible. But I need to have more of it, so I will be able to righteously deal and understand 49 new personalities.”
 
What title you want to win? Miss Philippines-Earth? Air? Fire? Water?  Eco-tourism?
“If ever I get to the top 5, (hopefully, I wish) it is already a very big hallelujah for me. But if I’d be given the chance to choose what title to win, I would always want the title Miss Philippines Earth. That way, I will be able to serve all elements in earth doing overall duties responsibly. And I would be very happy, more than willing and honoured to represent our country for the international pageant Miss Earth.”
 
What kind of diet do you have?
“I believe that a balanced diet together with an exercise is the most ideal and most effective in improving health and weight. Balanced diet means the 3 G's (the Go, Grow and the Glow foods) eat with control and moderation but not to the extent of food cut out and food deprivation. Next, drink lots and lots of water. Hydration entails good gastrointestinal condition which aids proper digestion of food for faster metabolism. This way, fats will be utilized as for energy use and will not be stored on your hips, belly and thighs.”

What part of your body do you think needs improvement?
“I don’t think something in my body needs more improvement because I am contented of what I am and how I look right now.”

And what part is your favorite?
“My very favorite part of my body is my face especially, my eyes. I can make myself really attractive through it. My eyes explain my feelings of a particular moment. Sometimes it might look intimidating but that's the most exciting part. My eyes can give you wrong impressions yet, when you look deeper, it provides you a revelation of my real good soul.”
           
What are your beauty secrets?
“I believe that expensive creams, facials, masks, etc. will never work when you lack time for beauty sleep, although it helps a little but it doesn't owe you a guarantee. It is even still obvious even if you're wearing makeup that you are stressed at the moment. Why? Because your eyes and skin will tell it. Our body needs regeneration and it entails a lot of resting for it to be done. it is always a process. Next is hydration. Drinking a lot of water aids good health to our skin. It benefits us moisturized, shiny skin. Then, choose the best body product that soothes you. Beauty doesn't have to be really expensive. it just needs a lot of caring to do.  
 
Who is your role model and inspiration and why?
My role model is my mother. She is my temple of protection and support. She embodies a picture of loyalty and patriotism on the service that she endows Batuan Bohol. She is a role model because rearing three children without a husband around is never easy. She imposes discipline to her children as well as to herself which makes us and others look up to her. I can see in my mother's eyes her dedication to help people in many ways she could. She is very determined to help establish programs that would promote improvement to her beloved town at the same time benefiting the despicable ones. My mom is a good, loving, caring mother and wife at the same time she is a very perceptive, kind neighbour and friend. I see my mom as a woman of prayer and selfless love. She is an example of bravery where. She stands on what she thinks is right and fight for it. She blessed by a gift in her that she never does things difficult, otherwise she does solve things and make it easy which makes me conclude why she loves her job the most. I am proud to say I have something that i got in from her. My mother was once a Dangal ng Bayan Awardee back at 2004. She has proudly made her owe legacy in our place. Now, it’s about time to take my turn and make my own.”

Young people today are liberated and adventurous, willing to try everything. What's your stand on pre-marital sex?
“Liberation today is big challenge to everybody since we Filipinos has been slowly adopting another country's culture. This challenge can be helped if we make our choices right. It is lawful that we, be aware that if we think its real love that we are feeling inside. Love is not for sex, sex is never for fun. Sex can always wait in the right age, right situation, and right time and in a right man.” 

And what is your stand on the Reproductive Health Bill?
“I am strong and straight to my stand that I say no to the bailing of the reproductive health bill. Because I believe that every species, big or small, bound to be born or unborn has the right to live. We humans carry the duty to take every responsibility that we are liable of and not be idiots and lame to drop off these duties when we fear that we could not partake these duties. I still believe in the power of abstinence. It aids discipline. It may be hard to do but all we need is practice and practice makes perfect. Patience, distraction and decrease of stimulation are the key. Let’s make use of recreational sports, relaxation strategies and rehabilitation utilization. There are a lot more things that we can do that will cause everybody no harm. Let us be agents of life.”

Do you still have time to watch the impeachment trial?
“I actually had no time to watch but I’ve heard about it.”

Should Chief Justice Renato Corono be removed from office?
“I could not really justify that, since, I hear no exact answers coming from him about the accusations brought about by his issues.. but I will go for the stand that, an impeachment would be right to a person who lies and cheats to the country he's supposed to serve with.”
 
What are your winning traits?
“I consider my character as a winning trait because I embody a bunch of abilities, qualities, skills that I could use as my assets for the competition. I have the grit and guts to do whatever it takes to win by not being ambivalent about it. I find meaning in all that I do and I take actions and commitment to every word that I say. When I talk about service, I do it seriously and I co-requisite it with determination and perseverance.”   

What is your favourite quote?
David Frost once said, "Don't aim for success if you want it; just do what you love and believe in, and it will come naturally." It stroke me determination on finally doing things that I want to do. I heard myself out which made the quote my trademark upon winning the title Ms. Cebu Rehabilitative Sciences. I believe that quotes are somehow mentors of our lives. They may be little but they instil powerful words that subdue our individual choice of path. Now, I want to share the quote that I made myself which served as my basis in everything that I do and what was doing. I know the path that I chose. I just have to say and i quote "never let fear hinder opportunities. Break a leg and go with it!" 
 
Have you prepared for little “surprises” such as slipping onstage like what happened to Miriam Quiambao in the 1999 Miss U pageant in Trinidad-Tobago?
“Yes I do. Things like that are expected to happen. All I have to do is take extra care and if it does happen, ill just stand up straight, smile, chin up and wave.”

If you win, and we hope you will, you will be travelling around the country to promote the Miss Earth Philippines objectives.
“Yes!”

But if, however, you lose, simbako dili unta, what’s your alternative — modeling or showbiz?
“I have never dreamed to be a show business icon but it doesn't mean I will say, I can't be for that. But when I say modelling, the runway has always been my dream and my passion because it is what I love. But if you'll let me choose of course I’ll go for modelling.  But if I have the chances for both, I will be more than happy to take the two. Opportunity matters.” (Zeneline is modeling for Cebu-based agency Wafer Models. - LPU)

Nightlife?
“Yes. I’ve tried. It is one of the best things why a lot of people want to visit Cebu. Cebu is a great place for fun and party because Cebuanos are made to be jamming, happy people. It’s actually one of Cebu’s trademarks especially during Sinulog days, party is more fun.”

If you were somebody else, who would you like to be and why?
“I want to be like Tyra Banks because she displays an image of real beauty, brain, goodness, integrity and bravery. She's unobtrusive, selfless, and a woman of enthusiasm. She has become very famous yet she remains very submissive in her deeds. She's just undeniably shining in everything she does.” 
 
If you were to change something in yourself, what would it be?
“There is nothing that I don't like about myself. I wouldn't change anything about me because everything about what I am right now, is the one making me myself which makes me unique to everybody.” 
 
Describe yourself in three words.
“Sexy + intellectual + beautiful = GORGEOUS. That’s just 1 word. Add up bravery and benevolence that equals me in three words.”
 
Do you have a boyfriend?
“No, I don't have a boyfriend.”
                     
If you were to choose between a boyfriend and Miss Philippines-Earth, which would you choose?
“I will of course choose Miss Earth for the fact that you can join beauty pageants only until 25 years old. You can always have a boyfriend even beyond that age. When a boyfriend comes, when it’s for you, it really is for you regardless of your time and the choices you make.”
 
What qualities do you want in a man?
“I want a man, not a boy. Meaning, I want a man who's not senseless; I want him conversational yet, perceptive and never tactless. I want a man who speaks his mind; brave enough to tell what he wants with respect to what I want too. I want a confident man yet not arrogant. I want a man who tends to oversee my needs before his. A man who would not let me change the way that I am, the way how I live my life and the way how things I wanted to be. I want a man who respects me as a woman. A man who understands and respects the decisions and choices I make. I want a man who I can make myself comfortable and confident with. A man who can always make me feel beautiful even when I’m stressed and even until the time that I am full of wart, wrinkles and white hair. I want a man who includes me of his life plans. I want a man who makes me a part of everything that he is. I want a man who respects my parents and treat them like his own too. I want a man that can bravely fight for me no matter how hard any situation is without turning backs to anybody. I want a man who takes responsibility, love, care, selflessness and determination and a man who puts patriotic value for his and my family.” 

And what turns you off?
The very first thing that turns me off in a man is, when he is petty, unreasonable, senseless, selfish, shy and unhygienic .Next would be everything that is opposite about the things that I like in a man.”
 
 
***
Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohan at Twitter/ Facebook.
 

Saturday, December 3, 2011

Miss Bohol Sandugo book on its 60th

Wake-uppers:

Scene: Gheleo Rey Caslib, a seaman, and Dhess Escleto, a supervisor of La Vista BQ Mall, exchanged marriage vows last Nov. 30 at the UCCP Dr. Graham Memorial Church, Inc. The wedding was officiated by Rev. George Lungay and Rev. Leon Maniwan.

Scene: The Ubayanus Kru from San Pascual, Ubay, Bohol made it to the weekly finals rounds on ABS-CBN late-morning show Showtime last Nov. 26. However, they didn’t make it to the monthly finals rounds. Ubayanus Kru weekly finals performance, according to the judges, was kumpletos rekados, a complete meal. They have dancers, a beatboxer (Aldrin Palaca), a soloist and a harper. All the judges and madlang people were really impressed about their revealed performance that they garnered a perfect 10 scores from madlang pipol. “Yung nagbebeatbox (referring to Aldrin Palaca) pare, ang galing mo bro, yung naguitar, nag-harp. Tapos yung bata may matandang tao sa katawan niya. Ang pinaka-best sa inyo makayaban, Pinoy na Pinoy kayo. Mahal kayo ng tao, yung charisma at dating ninyo ng mga tao malayo mararating ninyo,” said Jericho Rosales.Meantime, showbiz beckons. Showtime has taught Ubayanus Kru to hone their craft.

Seen: 2011 Miss Universe 3rd runner-up Shamcey Supsup will lead the Bluewater family in lighting up the entire resort with festive parols, handcrafted lanterns made from indigenous materials tonight, Dec. 4.  Possibly Shamcey will sing with CenterStage band as they will be playing the best of Christmas songs during the parol lighting. To book a table for the dinner-for-a-cause with Shamcey Supsup, call 0922 8779059 and look for Alma Mondigo or visit www.bluewater.com.ph.

Seen: The unprecedented 19th straight overall championship of Cebu City athletes of the 2011 Central Visayas Regional Athletic Association (CVIRAA) Meet held in Tagbilaran City. Around 7,000 athletes from all over the region (Bais, Bayawan, Bogo, Bohol, Carcar, Cebu, Cebu Province, Danao, Dumaguete, Guihulngan, Lapu-Lapu, Mandaue, Naga, Negros Oriental, Siquijor, Tagbilaran, Talisay, Tanjay and Toledo) plunged into action in archery, arnis, athletics, badminton, baseball, basketball, boxing, chess, football, gymnastics, lawn tennis, sipa, sepak takraw, softball, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo and volleyball. This year’s edition had no dancesport competition but had a cultural presentation such as balitaw, vocal solo, folk dance and kundiman ni Dr. Jose Rizal.

***
Miniature Christmas village attracts visitors

Edward Guyano aka Inday Charity (left) and your columnist at the Christmas village of Mila Lim (center). Photo by Liza Macalandag
Now on its third year, the miniature Christmas Village of Mila Lim has fascinated visitors and friends who visit it during the holidays.

The Christmas Village is a decorative, miniature village occupying the main entrance of her house. It’s literally filled with trees of green and gold, colorful mini-shops, miniature skiers up and down the slopes, carnival rides, dancers twirling to a waltz inside a gazebo, skaters in the park, Santa Clauses dancing and flying on sleighs and a choo-choo train running in circles. 
"My Christmas village has 53 houses and I have 118 Santa Claus collections," shared Mila.

Mila started the project in 2008 and has since increased her collection of miniature Christmas houses and objects. Some of the items were bought during her travels abroad, while others were gifts from her friends.

When she was a child, Mila said she was fascinated by Santa Claus so she decided to collect Santa Claus for a decade now. To date, she has 115 Santa Claus.
Scattered throughout are Santa Claus in all shades and shapes. There are singing and dancing santas, and ala Tarzan santa. Even her glasses and place mats are in Christmas motif.

Importantly, Christmas music coming from the village and the sala boosts the festive atmosphere.

The Christmas Village will run until Jan. 8, 2012, the Feast of the Three Kings (Epiphany of the Lord) at the House of Mila Lim along M. Torralba Street (at the back of the Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital).

(Thanks Liza Macalandag for the pictures! Edward Guyano is all smiles.)

***

Four years from now, the province’s oldest beauty pageant, the Miss Bohol Sandugo, will celebrate its 60th year.

The memory of those lovely and enchanting ladies who made their mark in the Miss Bohol pageant arena would always linger in the minds of pageant aficionados.

“Don’t you wish we will write a book about the Miss Bohol winners?” asked Bohol’s seasoned host and personality guru Raul Gatal. Yes, why not?

1977 beauties. The Top Three were all from the then Divine Word College now Holy Name University From L-R: 1st RU Antoniette Biloy, Miss DWCT, 1977 Most Beautiful Boholana Ellen "Jick Jick" Campbell, Miss Tagbilaran City, 2nd RU Angie Pepito, Miss Rotary Club of Tagbilaran City
Churning out a book recording the history of Miss Bohol is a history in itself. I was approached by Raul in the latter part of 2004 about his initial plan to make a book.  He got a nod from Prof. Marianito Jose Luspo. Raul wanted a coffee -table book to commemorate the pageant.  As Raul soldiered on, however, the project didn’t materialize.

Winners come and go. It is a high time that the Miss Bohol Sandugo deserves a book on its 60th.

Here’s a fond lookback (some interesting trivia) at the Miss Bohol Sandugo winners, courtesy of Raul :

• The 1956 Miss Bohol Paula Raagas Valles became a mayor of her town Maribojoc.

Olivia Solis, the 1957 winner, became famous for the Visayan serial radio drama song "Dawata na Olivia" which was composed especially for her. It was a sentimental journey home when she graced the 2000 Miss Calape pageant where her ageless beauty and charm were admired by one and all.

• The 1962 Miss Bohol, the very regal and elegant Delia Canda- de la Serna represented Bohol in the 1962 Miss Philippines Pageant which selected the country's bet for the 1963 Miss Universe Pageant. Delia was selected as Miss Visayas or 3rd runner up to Lalaine Benett who became the 1963 Miss Universe 3rd runner up. 

•The 1968 Miss Bohol that was organized by the Bohol Jaycees selected the province's bets to the 1968 Binibining Pilipinas Pageant.  Theoprolia Clarin Parras and Emma Mumar were Bohol's bets to the country's most prestigious pageant. Miss Mumar was declared one of the 15 semi- finalists in the 1968 edition of Bb Pilipinas.

 • In 1976, the pageant was relaunched as The Search for the Most Beautiful Boholana. It was won by Divine Word College's bet, Lou Minoza.

Ellen Campbell
 • The 1977 pageant attracted 34 candidates who represented towns, the city, schools, civic and business clubs. The winner was the vivacious Ellen Jick Jick" Campbell who represented Tagbilaran City. Her 1st RU was Miss DWCT'S Antoniette Biloy. 2nd RU was Angie Pepito, Miss Rotary Club of Tagbilaran. Rounding out the Top Seven were the candidates from Garcia Hernandez, Tubigon, Jagna and Loon.  Ellen "Jick Jick" Campbell passed away in Feb 2001 after losing the battle with the big C. She would always be remembered as one of the loveliest Miss Bohol winners.

• In 1978, the pageant was won by the well- bred Geraldine Galang of Carmen who represented DWCT. She officially became Miss Divine Word College in 1979.

 • The 1983 edition that was organized by the then Kabataang Barangay Prov'l Chair Hon. Edgar Chatto was aptly named Miss Young Bohol. It holds the record of having the most number of candidates with a total of 37 girls from around Bohol. It was won by Marcelina Marcel Orimaco Gatal of Tagbilaran City who was also adjudged Best in Gown for her unforgettable red and white serpentina evening gown which she carried with elan and poise. Her runners up included Josephine Joy Tago Miss Dimiao. She is now Dr. Joy Yap, a very successful dentist. Another runner up was Miss Loboc, Tessie Labunog now Mrs. Tessie Sumampong of Loboc Riverwatch fame. A year before the 1983 Miss Young Bohol, Ms Gatal was also chosen Hiyas ng Silangan- Bohol and represented the province in the National Finals of Hiyas ng Silangan- Philippines held at the Ramada Hotel in Manila where she was adjudged Miss Talent and later chosen as one of the Top Ten Finalists. 

 • 1986 was a transition period for the Philippines for it was the year that Pres. Marcos was deposed and the Yellow Fever had swept the country- side. Then Bohol OIC Governor Victor de las Serna approved the holding of a Miss Bohol pageant that would start from the barangay level to really pick the most beautiful Boholana for that year. The statuesque and very sophisticated Gemma Manding of Tagbilaran City won in a province- wide beauty search that was participated in by all municipalities and the city in a pageant that had weekly elimination rounds prior to the grand coronation night. Miss Manding stood out and outshone all the other girls during the pageant night and swept almost all the special titles and corporate awards. The Philippine Airlines International F.A. and wife to City Councilor Hon. Beben Inting has maintained her regal bearing and retained the gorgeous looks and whistle- bait figure that won for her the Miss Bohol crown in 1986.

***

Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohan at Twitter or email at Facebook.

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Shamcey Supsup places 4th in Miss Universe pageant

FILE PHOTO FROM AFP/ Miss Universe Organization / Patrick PRATHER 

Question: Would you change your religious beliefs to marry the person you love? Why or why not?

Answer: If I had to change my religious beliefs, I would not marry the person that I love because the first person that I love is God who created me and I have my faith and my principles and this is what makes me who I am. And if that person loves me, he should love my God too.

Here's an article courtesy of the Manila Bulletin: 

It's Miss Angola, but Supsup shines
September 13, 2011, 10:20am

SAO PAULO, Brazil (AP/Reuters) — Leila Lopes, a business student from Angola, was crowned Miss Universe 2011 on Monday night (Tuesday in Manila) after dazzling the panel of judges with her beauty and brains.

Miss Philippines Shamcey Supsup made a splendid account of herself in the beauty contest, joined by 89 countries, as she shared the lights and the stage as the pageant’s third runner-up.

Lopes, Angola’s first winner, won the title during the 60th anniversary of the world’s biggest beauty pageant by smoothly handling an interview question about what physical trait she would change if she could.

“Thank God I’m very satisfied with the way God created me and I wouldn’t change a thing,” Lopes said when asked her interview question by judge and Broadway star Lea Salonga. “I consider myself a woman endowed with inner beauty. I have acquired many wonderful principles from my family and I intend to follow these for the rest of my life.”

Lopes was crowned wearing a strapless cream-colored gown. She replaces last year’s winner, Ximena Navarrete of Mexico.

The first runner-up was 23-year-old Olesia Stefanko of Ukraine, the second runner-up was Priscila Machado of Brazil, and the fourth runner-up was Miss China.

It was the first time that the Philippines won back-to-back in the Miss Universe pageant in the major category.

Last year, Miss Philippines Universe Maria Venus Raj won 4th runner-up in the pageant held in Las Vegas Nevada. This ended an 11-year drought for the Philippines in the beauty contest.

During the question-and-answer portion, actress/producer Vivica Fox asked Supsup: “Would you change your religious beliefs to the person you love and why?’’

Supsup answered: “If I have to change my religious belief, I will not marry the person I love because the first person that I love is God and He created me. And I have my faith, my principles and it what makes me who I am. And if that person loves me, he should love my God.’’

Like Miss Angola, Supsup also received warm reception from the audience for her answer.

The Philippine bet scored high among fans in the swimsuit and evening gown categories. In both categories, Supsup was ranked No. 2.

Supsup’s father, Mr. Timoteo Supsup, said he was not that surprised that his daughter won third runner-up in the pageant since she had the beauty and the brains to make it.

“I was so nervous, but happy when my daughter’s name was announced as the 3rd runner up and even when she was in the top 10 and 5. I believed she’d go home with a crown,” he said in Filipino.

A farmer in General Santos City, Mr. Supsup said he raised his only child with a strong belief and faith in God so he was not surprised with the way she answered in the interview portion of the contest.

As a message to his daughter, Mr. Supsup said: “Thank you for doing your best and giving pride to our country. I’m so proud of you.”

“The Binibining Pilipinas Charities Inc. would like to extend its heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Shamcey Supsup who placed third runner up in the recently concluded Miss Universe 2011 pageant. Her dazzling performance and excellent answer, besting more than 80 of the world’s loveliest women, clearly showed the innate beauty, values and intelligence of the Filipina. Indeed, Shamcey’s remarkable finish is a source of honor for Filipinos the world over,’’ said a Tessa Mangahas, Public Relations and Corporate Communications Manager of Araneta Center, Inc.

This year, the pageant slightly introduced a different format, which included the Top 16th slot in the semi-finals.

Contestants from 89 nations on six continents spent the past three weeks in Sao Paulo, trying to learn samba dance steps, visiting impoverished children and kicking a football around for cameras as the globe’s biggest beauty contest is held in Brazil for the first time.

Before the contest began, judges offered little insight into who they thought might win.

“I know my job and I’ll be tough, but fair,” said pageant judge and journalist Connie Chung. “You have to keep in mind that these women are not objects just to be looked at. They’re to be taken seriously. I want to choose somebody I take seriously and the world takes seriously, too.”

Paula Shugart, president of the Miss Universe organization, was hyped for the night.

“It’s our 60th anniversary, it’s a very big show,” she said. “We’re anticipating close to a billion viewers from around the world.”

In the Philippines, Malacañang was incredibly proud of Miss Supsup’s showing in the pageant despite losing the Miss Universe crown.

Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda hailed Supsup doing the country proud, saying she still emerged victorious in the eyes of Filipinos.

“On behalf of the Filipino people, we are proud of you; and we see even greater things ahead for you,” Lacierda said.

“The humility, intellect, and grace that you exhibited during the competition embodied the spirit of the true Filipina; and, in our eyes, that is the true victory today — that the world stood witness to and found an appreciation for the ideals, values, and beauty that has long characterized our nation,” he added.

Lacierda said they hope the triumph of Supsup would convince other nations to “appreciate not just the beauty of our people, but that of our country.”

He said the President was actually impressed by Supsup’s educational background. Supsup graduated from University of the Philippines as magna cum laude with an architecture degree as well as topped the architecture licensure exams last year.

“He said he congratulates Ms. Supsup for her accomplishment today. She was indeed beauty and brains. That was his description of Ms. Supsup,” Lacierda said.

Lawmakers were equally elated, saying Supsup should be chosen by the Department of Tourism (DoT) as the country’s tourism “magnet,” along with other Filipino world-class icons.

“It would be beautiful if she could join the likes of Manny Pacquiao and Lea Salonga. She made us proud again,” said Eastern Samar Rep. Ben Evardone, adding that they should be at the forefront of promoting the country abroad.

“I hope her victory will erase the negative image of the country brought about by Luneta tragedy,” he said.

Resolutions commending Supsup for performance in the international pageant were filed Tuesday at the House of Representatives.

You Against Corruption and Poverty (YACAP) party-list Rep. Carol Lopez echoed Evardone’s sentiments in filing House Resolution 1716 to commend Supsup, whom she described as an “accomplished Filipina.”

South Cotabato and General Santos City Rep. Pedro B. Acharon Jr. filed a similar resolution, said they are set to prepare a red carpet welcome for Supsup, who hails from his city.

“Preparations are underway to welcome her. We are very proud of her,” he said.

Cavite Rep. Lani Mercado-Revilla said she is also filing her resolution to extend her felicitation to Supsup.

But, Gabriela Rep. Luz Ilagan rejected the proposal of her colleagues in making Supsup as the country’s tourism poster girl.

“For tourism purposes, a beautiful woman should not be used to sell the beauty of our country. This is the old, macho way of promoting places. Our tourism spots can stand in their own without having a woman in a bikini promoting them,” she said.

Vice President Jejomar C. Binay also congratulated Supsup.

“Whatever it is, we’ll have to congratulate her. There were so many contestants and beautiful faces in the pageant,” Binay said. (With reports from Robert R. Requintina, Sheryl L.Miguel, Genalyn D. Kabiling, Charissa M. Luci, and JC Bello Ruiz)



'I'm so proud of you' — Shamcey Supsup's father
By SHERYL L. MIGUEL
September 13, 2011, 1:24pm

September 13, 2011, 1:24pm

MANILA, Philippines — After winning third runner-up in the 2011 Miss Universe beauty pageant, Miss Philippines Shamcey Supsup’s proud father, Mr. Timoteo Supsup, confessed that he was not that surprised that his daughter will win the pageant because he was confident enough that she has the beauty and brains of a real beauty queen.

“Sobrang ninerbiyos ako pero Masaya ako nung marinig ko na tinawag ang pangalan ng anak ko bilang third runner-up at kahit pa nung masali siya sa top 10 at 5. Pero malaki naman ang paniniwala ko na uuwi siya na may dalang korona. (I was so nervous but happy when they announced the name of my daughter as the third runner-up even when she was in the top 10 and 5. Though I believed that she will go home with a crown),” Mr. Supsup via ABS-CBN.

A farmer in General Santos, Mr. Supsup said he raised his only child with a strong belief and faith in God that is why he was not surprised with his daughter’s answer at the Question & Answer portion that she will not choose her love life over God.

He also imparts that Shamcey grew up with lots of experiences in joining and winning in beauty contests in General Santos City.

“Anak, thank you dahil ginawa mo ang lahat upang makapag-uwi ng karangalan sa ating bansa. Proud na proud ako sa’yo (Thank you for doing all your best for giving pride to our country. I’m so proud of you),” Mr. Supsup said.

Miss Philippines Shamcey Supsup took third runner-up in the 2011 Miss Universe beauty pageant, behind the eventual title holder Miss Angola, first runner-up Miss Ukraine, and second runner-up Miss Brazil.