Joshua Marapao Lillehagen: 'Always be kind even to those who aren’t'

By Leo Udtohan

Joshua Marapao Lillehagen is Bohol's representative to the "Great Man of the Universe". Photo: Aplaya Multimedia

The first thing that people notice in Joshua Marapao Lillehagen is his towering height, even when he was Sandugo Festival King 2018. 

Zoom out a bit and you notice his good looks that, according to TAN manager Roger Ryan "Khim" Magtagad, “he is getting more handsome each day,” and then, zoom out some more, his well-kept, well-toned body. “Not to brag but women and pa-women swoon over his goodlooking looks whenever he goes to the malls here and even in Dubai and Australia," adds Khim who has an eye for beauty and brawn. 

Joshua, 19, who hails from Calape town, is Bohol's official representative to the "Great Man of the Universe"-Philippines search which will culminate this November. 

Last week, he had a courtesy call to Gov. Aris Aumentado to seek support for his upcoming participation in the pageant. He was definitely thrilled to have discussed his plans with the young governor. He expressed his gratitude to Aumentado for the warm welcome and manifestation of support. 

Joshua is now in Dubai for a vacation while at the same time undergoing a training program focused on the physical, mental and emotional strength needed for the search. 

He said joining the "Great Man of the Universe" is the smartest thing he has done so far. 

"I think the smartest thing I’ve done so far was joining this pageant, Great Man of the Universe Philippines, and gaining exposure and getting back into modelling, which is a passion of mine ever since 2018 when I first started modelling," Joshua said. 

And what are his preparations for the contest? 

 

"I’m really giving this pageant my all. I’m watching what I eat, making sure I’m not consuming too many carbohydrates. I’m also going to the gym six times a week, doing cardio in the night and in the early morning to lose fat and keep myself in shape," he said. 

"I’m also doing facials at House of Beauty, and taking good care of my skin to reduce the amount of break outs I have. I also went to my dentist, Vertulfo, to get my teeth whitened. And finally, I get my nails done at Nailux so that my hands always look clean," he added. 

A Sagittarius, Joshua stands 6’2”; weighs 176 lbs.; and wears small-size shirt, medium-size briefs and size-13. 5 shoes.

Have you always wanted to join modeling since you were small? "I’ve never actually thought about doing modelling as a kid, however it has always been my dream to get into acting and becoming a big movie star one day. It then became a dream of mine to become an ABS- CBN actor too after watching TFC (The Filipino Channel) with my Lola when I was a kid."

Would you rather be smart but not too handsome or handsome but not too smart? "I would rather be smart but not too handsome because I was told when I was around 15 to 16 years old that looks are temporary, however knowledge is forever, and knowledge is power."

Joshua Marapao Lillehagen: 'I feel like my best asset is how brave and competitive I am. I never back down from a challenge and when I do take up a challenge I will do anything and everything to win.'  Photos: Litrato ni Juan by John Michael Ladura and Aplaya Multimedia

What are you taking up in college?  "I’m currently doing my Bachelor’s degree in media and communications in the University of Wollongong in Dubai. The reason why I chose this specific degree is because when choosing what I wanted to do for university, I wanted to get into acting school, however my parents weren’t going to support me financially with that degree because acting isn’t a certain career path, you need a little bit of luck and connections in order to get into that. So I chose media and communications because that’s the closest thing I could get to acting in front of the camera, I would at least be behind the camera."

What do you think is the biggest decision that you’ve made in your life? "To be honest with you, even though it was the smartest decision I’ve made it was also the hardest decision I’ve made too because I never actually had plans to get back into modelling and this opportunity came out of absolutely nowhere. I know most people would probably take this opportunity in a heartbeat, but in all honesty I wasn’t ready for it. I was out of shape, and I wasn’t taking care of myself and shaping myself for modelling anymore since Covid hit."

What is your motto in life? "My motto in life is to always be kind, even to those who aren’t. I’ve learned throughout the years is that when you leave this earth, nobody cares how well you did in your English test back in grade 7, but people would care about how you helped them study for it, especially if they get a good grade because of you. However long you are in this life for, always try and do good no matter who the person is, because at the end of the day people will care about your heart rather than your mind."

What are your winning traits? "My winning traits are that I’m resilient, I’m trustworthy, I’m loyal and I’m respectful."

What winning tips you get from your trainor/ handler? "Some winning tips I get from my handler is to never give up."

How do you handle bashers?  "I invite them into my life because that’s my sign that I’m making it and I’m close to success."

Do you have secrets sustaining your pogi points?  "Eat, sleep, repeat."

What is your best asset and why? "I feel like my best asset is how brave and competitive I am. I never back down from a challenge and when I do take up a challenge I will do anything and everything to win." 

What advocacy experience do you have? Maybe you have an important message to share ... and being a model would be the venue or forum to start your advocacy. "Some advocacy experience that I have is giving back to my community, especially in Calape. Calape has helped me so much whenever it came to my modelling, whether it was supporting me or even just the wildlife and scenery. Because of this, I enjoy giving back to my community after all the help they have given to me."

Who’s your role model?" My role model is my father. He has always been the one person I have always looked up to and listened to whenever times got too rough, and when it comes to really big decisions I always ask myself what would my father do."

Any other woman whom you admire? "A strong and powerful woman who I admire is my mother. She’s the person who gave birth to me and raised me when I was a child and taught me what’s right and what’s wrong. Without her I don’t know where I’d be in my life."

How you will convince people here and abroad that it is more fun in Bohol? "It’s all in the saying, Bohol has it all, and it’s all in Bohol. Which is very true, based off of all the tourist attractions and numerous activities you can do on this beautiful island, it truly has no boring days. You can always do something in Bohol any and every day of the week. Bohol has some of the most beautiful scuba diving and free diving sites if you’re into that, but if you’re afraid of the ocean then you can always find something to do at Island City Mall, or visit the world famous Chocolate Hills and climb over 200 steps to go up the mountain. There is always something fun to do in this beautiful island, Bohol."

Bohol's "Great Man of the Universe" Joshua Lillehagen pays a visit to Gov. Aris Aumentado. Also in photo is Lillehagen' s manager Roger Ryan "Khim" Magtagad. Photo: Aplaya Multimedia

What place in Bohol you would like to promote and bring your friends?  "To be honest there isn’t just one place in Bohol I would promote and bring my friends to because the island of Bohol as a whole is a beautiful island and there’s always something to do no matter what province you travel to. You can always travel to the Chocolate Hills and see the beautiful view at the top of one of the mountains you can climb, or you can go into the city of Tagbilaran and experience the night life, or if you’re a daytime person you can go into any of the malls and shop for good quality clothes or delicious food with the friendliest staff. Bohol as a whole is an amazing island, and there’s too many places in Bohol that are a great place to visit that I cannot choose one specific place."

What qualities of the Boholano youth would you highlight? "Their resiliency."

What is your favorite quote? “Don’t waste your time with explanations, people only hear what they want to hear.” - Paulo Coelho

Describe yourself in three (3) words:" Resilient. Trustworthy. Spiritual. Resilient - no matter how many times I get knocked down I will get right back on my feet again. Trustworthy - no matter what I will always try and tell the truth in full, even if the truth will hurt.  Spiritual - no matter where I am or what I’m doing, I will always turn to God for help if I’m at a low point in my life, and I will always thank God when I’m at a high point." 

How's your love life? "I don’t have one." 

What do you find sexy in a woman? "Her personality." 

And what turns you off? "Lack of personality."

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

Aris inducts BMPC board of directors, officers

By Leo Udtohan

Gov. Aris Aumentado inducts BMPC board of directors and officers.

Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado administered the oath of office to the newly-elected members of the board of directors (BOD) and officers of the Bol-anon Multi-Purpose Cooperative (formerly TACECCO) on Thursday night, Sept. 15, at Shang Palace.

The presence of Aumentado manifested a strong sense of support for cooperatives as economic drivers that promote growth and economic viability of local communities. 

He also informed the BMPC cooperators that the provincial government of Bohol is preparing to roll out assistance to interested coops in the province. 

The BMPC chair is Samuel Belderol. 

Others who took their oath before Aumentado were Mardonio Roxas, vice-chair; Jose  Pamaong, Fiel Angeli Araoarao-Gabin, Felito Francisco, and Brenda Sarte as BOD members starting their new term, as well as the newly-appointed officers of the different committees.

It may be remembered that the BMPC is one of the 122 civil society organizations that were awarded  certificates of accreditation by the 15th Sangguniang Panlungsod headed by Vice-Mayor Adam Relson Jala, as part of the initiatives of the City Government to strengthen the CSOs and empower the Tagbilaran City People’s Council (TCPC).

Belderol was also elected treasurer of the TCPC during the meeting at JJ’s Seafoods on Thursday. 

The BMPC is managed by Edita Lapac.

* * *

Most memorable lines from our newsmakers (and why we are moved, if we are moved): 

Social Welfare and Development Secretary Erwin Tulfo on no funds for typhoon Odette victims in Bohol:  "Ito ay walang bolahan. Ang pera na lang po ng DSWD  para sa medical, burial, transportation less than P1 billion na lang." 

Rep. Alexie Besas-Tutor during the organizational meeting of the Committee on Civil Service and Professional Regulation to address injustice and to gradually reduce numbers of contractuals and job order personnel in government: "We need a master plan that addresses this injustice over the next five years. I am hopeful Chairman Karlo Nograles will be up to this challenge."

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

Bohol expected to be declared Unesco Global Geopark by 2022

By Leo Udtohan 

THE HILLS ARE ALIVE... Your media friends (l-r) Joshua Fullido (dyTR), Elvie Bongosia (PIA), Helen Castaño (Bohol Island News), Rey Tutas (dyRD) and Dave Responte (dyTR) at the Chocolate Hills Complex.  Photo: Leo Udtohan 

For the first time in two years, since the onslaught of the pandemic, I was able to enter the complex last Thursday during the Social Welfare and Development Sec. Erwin Tulfo. 

Tulfo was in Bohol to attend the turnover of classroom buildings and isolation center in Pilar town and livelihood assistance payout in Carmen town.

Carmen Mayor Che Toribio-Delos Reyes invited Tulfo, DSWD staff and volunteers for a "merienda" at the complex. 

"The hills are alive, still beautiful," I gushed when I saw the mounds closer and clearer. 

The beautiful natural scenery at the chocolate hills would weep away sorrows and difficulties in the journey to discover new things, hard but extremely meaningful.

Mayor Che bared she has plans for the chocolate hills to make it a world-class destination. 

Some members of the Bohol media with Carmen Mayor Che Toribio-Delos Reyed and board member Nathaniel Binlod at the Chocolate Hills Complex.

Speaking of chocolate hills, a geological wonder, the  island- province of Bohol is expected to be declared a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) Global Geopark site by 2022.

The Unesco website said that Bohol is one of the seven considered geoparks being nominated by the Global Geoparks Council of the Unesco.

The other six are: Ijen, Indonesia;  Maros Pangkep, Indonesia; Aras, Iran; Waitaki Whitestone, New Zealand; Kinabalu, Malaysia; and Khorat, Thailand.

Should the Unesco Executive Board approve the outcome of the Council during its spring 2023 session, Bohol would become the first Unesco Global Geopark in the Philippines.

The Council will meet again in December 2022, to examine the applications that are currently undergoing evaluation and revalidation missions.  

Gov. Aris Aumentado said that the nomination being the only in the country encourages new motivation with geological heritage values.

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

World reacts to passing of Queen Elizabeth II

By Leo Udtohan

People in Britain and around the world are mourning Queen Elizabeth II, the United Kingdom's longest-reigning monarch and one of the most enduring royal personalities the world has known. 

She died Thursday at the age of 96. Buckingham Palace confirmed that the queen had passed away at Balmoral Castle, her official summer residence in Scotland.

With the death of his mother Queen Elizabeth on Thursday, Prince Charles has finally become king of the United Kingdom and 14 other realms, ending a wait of more than 70 years - the longest by an heir in British history.

When I visited the United Kingdom in 2017, I didn't meet Her Majesty at her official residences at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle. Even our Boholano friends-- Panglao’s First Lady Annie Arcay in August 2015, and Andy Digal Doria in March  2018-- who visited Buckingham Palace didn’t meet Queen Elizabeth.

I wished to have seen her in person even from afar.  I love watching and reading stories of her life and other royals. It was still amazing to have seen her (my closest encounter with The Queen) in post boxes and stamps, and of course, their pound sterling. 

The Queen was also known for her words of comforting wisdom, her stalwart approach to tough times, and ability to laugh through joyful ones. Her  speeches and quotes throughout the seven decades of her reign have provided guidance, support and happiness to an entire nation and beyond. 

Like all the best families, we have our share of eccentricities, of impetuous and wayward youngsters and of disagreements. - The Queen's speech to heads of state aboard the royal yacht Britannia, October 1989

 

While we have faced challenges before, this one is different. This time we join with all nations across the globe in a common endeavour, using the great advances of science and our instinctive compassion to heal. We will succeed - and that success will belong to every one of us. - Televised address on April 5, 2020, after the outbreak of COVID-19

 

We should take comfort that while we may have more still to endure, better days will return: we will be with our friends again; we will be with our families again; we will meet again. - Televised address on April 5, 2020, after the outbreak of COVID-19

 

While we’re remembering Her Majesty, provincial board member Jamie Aumentado-Villamor also shares an anecdote about The Queen: 

 

Layo ang United Kingdom, pero I feel the loss of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on a personal level. Imagine having to rule a kingdom and lead Commonwealth of Nations at a young age of 25. Through stagnation and prosperity, I admire her ability to maintain a dignified monarchy. 

 

I have studied and learned about the Queen and her long reign. I read and watched the United Kingdom’s history, HERstory. Always been a follower since my teenage years. Always fascinated by her sense of duty, of service, steadfast leadership, well-thought of strategic decisions since at a young age of 25 as Queen, her diplomatic achievements. Worth mentioning, the Queen’s strong and enduring relationship with Prime Minister Winston Churchill during the World War II. And of course, her enduring and lasting marriage with Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. And yes, mag kilig-kilig pa gani ko nila. 

 

She was also an adorable grandmom. I’ve been telling Lola Grenie, “mura jud ka si Queen Elizabeth. Kay cute kaayo.”

 

Rest in Peace, Your Majesty.

 

* * *

Remembering Ruth, 21 years since 

On Sept. 9, 2001, my sister Ruth or "Neneng" to her friends, left us at a very young age - sweet seventeen. It was the saddest moment that we were overwhelmed with grief at that time.

Words couldn't entirely describe the pain, emptiness, and feelings of loss from her passing. 

Sometimes, we asked ourselves if she was alive, how many children would she have? She would probably be a fashion designer or with our other cousins abroad. 

Her nephews and nieces have not seen her as their "Tita" nor heard her voice.

Twenty-one years may have passed, but still, we have not forgotten her. 

Indeed, there is no time limit on coping with grief and loss. 

The family's belief in Jesus Christ and the afterlife for those who believe in Him has helped the process easily. 

 

Being a Torah observant, Jewish tradition encompasses all of life, day and night, light and dark. Even in the most difficult of situations--the imminent and then actual loss of a loved one--the Torah is there to strengthen, guide, and help us grow and see beyond our loss.

Slowly, we've overcome the pain, emptiness, and feelings of loss. 

What is death? This is best answered with another question: What is life?

May her memory be a blessing. 

 

* * *

Most memorable lines from our newsmakers (and why we are moved, if we are moved): 

 

Gov. Aris Aumentado on the construction of SM Supermall in Bohol:  The deal is done in our meeting. Within four to five years, we will experience the services of the new mall. More big businesses will come. The economy will boom.

 

Engr. Bien Mateo, SM Supermalls senior vice president for mall operations, on the construction of an SM Supermall branch in Bohol:  We are welcome here in Bohol. We felt Bohol is business- friendly. That is important to us.

 

Tagbilaran City Mayor Jane Yap on "PinasLakas" booster vaccination drive in Bohol: This is to continue our economic recovery. Now, there are many investors who are interested in Tagbilaran City and Bohol. Please, get boosted.

 

Dr. Jaime Bernadas, director of the Department of Health-Central Visayas during  "PinasLakas" booster vaccination drive in Bohol: Ayaw nato hulata nga ang bakuna mapildi na unya sa COVID, kinahanglan ang atong bakuna maoy makapildi sa COVID ug kana makab-ot kung atong paspasan nga macover kitang tanan para walay kabalhinan ug  kapuy-an ang kagaw.

 

Rep. Alexie Besas-Tutor of Bohol’s third district on the new face mask policy against COVID-19: Again, DOH and IATF seem to be slow. The United States is already rolling out the boosters against the old and new variants of COVID. Will the Philippines be late again? The burden of proof is on DOH and IATF. They must show that the failures of 2020 and 2021 will not repeat now or ever again.

 

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

Remembering Neneng, 21 years since

Ruth P. Udtohan

Exactly this day in 2001, you left us at a very young age - sweet seventeen. It was the saddest moment that we were overwhelmed with grief at that time.

Words couldn't entirely describe the pain, emptiness, and feelings of loss from your passing. 

Sometimes, we asked ourselves if you were alive, how many children would you have? You would probably be a fashion designer or with your other cousins abroad. 

Your nephews and nieces have not seen you as their "Tita" nor heard your voice.

Twenty-one years may have passed, but still, we have not forgotten you. 

Indeed, there is no time limit on coping with grief and loss. 

The family's belief in Jesus Christ and the afterlife for those who believe in Him has helped the process easily. 

Being a Torah observant, Jewish tradition encompasses all of life, day and night, light and dark. Even in the most difficult of situations--the imminent and then actual loss of a loved one--the Torah is there to strengthen, guide, and help us grow and see beyond our loss.

Slowly, we've overcome the pain, emptiness, and feelings of loss. 

What is death? This is best answered with another question: What is life?

May your memory be a blessing.

+Ruth “Neneng” Udtohan

SM to build mall in Bohol

By Leo Udtohan

DONE DEAL. SM Supermalls’ Senior Vice President for Mall Operations Engr. Bien Mateo (4th from left) pays a courtesy visit to Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado (center) on Wednesday, Sept. 7, for the new construction of a new mall in the province to bring employment opportunities to Boholanos. Photo: Gov. Aris Aumentado Facebook

TAGBILARAN CITY- After longing for years, Boholanos will experience malling to higher level as the Henry Sy-led SM Supermalls will build a branch in the province.

Engr. Bien Mateo, Senior Vice President for Mall Operations, said on Wednesday, Sept. 7,  that the new construction will bring employment opportunities to Boholanos.

"We are welcome here in Bohol. We felt Bohol is business- friendly. That is important to us," said Mateo after their meeting with Gov. Aris Aumentado on Wednesday at the provincial Capitol.

The new mall will be located at the site near Camp Bernido in Barangay Dao in Tagbilaran City.

The construction of a new mall in the next four to five years in Bohol province has a potential to generate 3,000 jobs.

"Nasa pipeline development of SM Supermalls yung pagtatayo ng branch dito sa Bohol. We will coordinate closely with the Governor's Office for necessary things we need to comply with para maintindihan namin," said Mateo. "We are very happy to hear from the governor that we are welcome here in Bohol, investor -friendly ang provincial government.. A big factor for us to really expedite for development in Bohol."

DONE DEAL. SM Supermalls’ Senior Vice President for Mall Operations Engr. Bien Mateo (4th from left) pays a courtesy visit to Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado (center) on Wednesday, Sept. 7, for the new construction of a new mall in the province to bring employment opportunities to Boholanos. Photo: Gov. Aris Aumentado Facebook

Aumentado said Boholanos have been longing for SM Supermalls in the province. After his election, he has repeatedly encouraged businessmen to invest in the province including SM Supermalls.

"The deal is done in our meeting. Within four to five years, we will experience the services of the new mall," said Aumentado. "More big businesses will come. The economy will boom."

The SM Supermalls’ holding company, the SM Prime Holdings, Inc., had purchased at least 7 hectares in Tagbilaran. For a mall, it's a minimum of 4 hectares.  The estimated that each mall normally costs around P2 billion.

SM Supermalls has 79 malls nationwide,

and 25 more scheduled to be opened for an eventual total of 106 malls.

With a history spanning 60 years in the retail industry and over two decades in the shopping center business, SM Supermalls is a multi-faceted institution consisting of stores, malls, banks, residences, resorts, hotels, and business establishments.

Hudyaka sa Panglao is back

By Leo Udtohan

Last weekend, the town of Panglao, the jewel tourism of Bohol province, has revived the "Hudyaka sa Panglao" Festival, two years since the pandemic forced most festivals in the Philippines to go virtual.

"Hudyaka sa Panglao street-dancing is back," said Anthony Ceniza, Panglao's Culture and Arts officer.  "Sadya kaayo ang Hudyaka namo karung tuiga."

He said the last time Panglao held an in-person street dance competition was in 2019. The festival turned virtual in 2020 and 2021. 

“Hudyaka” is a Cebuano word for revelry and merrymaking.   

Dubbed the province's oldest festival which presumably started in 1987,  the "Hudyaka sa Panglao" is staged every 28th day of August to celebrate the feast of the town’s patron saint San Augustine. 

The Hudyaka is an occasion in the Panglao community where faith, culture and tradition converge and oceans of people come together as one. 

"It is also to reflect Panglaoanons' strong faith and devotion through an established cultural identity and to express the gratitude to our patron saint," Ceniza added. 

The street-dancing had been the main highlight of the Hudyaka sa Panglao festivities.  This year, all the 10 barangays (villages) joined the event, together with their respective festival queens.

Mayor Edgardo "Boy" Arcay emphasized that the challenges brought by the pandemic could not stop the Panglaoanons to celebrate the feast of Saint Augustine.  

Carousel type

Each contigent was composed only of 31 participants- 20 dancers and one festival queen and 10 drummers-just enough for the fanfare. 

The street-dance had a carousel route that started at the front of the church then to the plaza repeatedly on a progressive choreography.

Residents and tourists witnessed the street dance where the performers wore bright-colored costumes and amazing props who danced to the rhythm of drums and native gongs. 

The contingent from Barangay Lourdes was declared grand champion. 

"Nakita nako ang ilahang diversity of culture, gipakita nila ang ilang pagka-relihiyoso sa Panglaoanon," said Edison Gumapac, one of the judges. 

Through the festival, Ceniza said the town was able to showcase the reviving economy and other side of Panglao which was affected by the  Coronavirus pandemic.  

The  tourism makes up 15% of Bohol economic output with Panglao as the principal destination of the province.  Many of the town's businesses were closed during the pandemic. 

Bohol has suffered greatly during the pandemic when tourist arrival had 177,341 in 2020, the lowest in a decade. 

Tourist attractions

The town of Panglao was established as an independent parish in 1782, but Recollect records show that they took charge of the town in 1803.

Since the central theme of the Hudyaka is Saint Augustine, the church dedicated to him is worthy to visit.

The St. Augustine Church, probably one built by the Jesuits before their expulsion in 1768,  has facade inspired by neoclassical architecture and includes the typical portico with Corinthian columns.

The centuries-old watchtower built in 1851 is said to be the tallest in the Philippines.

If you’re already in Panglao, then a side trip to emerging and existing destinations are a must. On top of it is the  white-sandy beaches on Alona Beach and  Dumaluan Beach Resort in Barangay Bolod. 

A five-minute drive from Dumaluan,  you will reach the South Farm, where you can find a 9-hectare organic land property promoting rural, handmade, handcrafted, hand built tourist destinations.

Other attractions are Virgin Island for swimming, Cliff Dive for snorkeling with shoals of sardines and Balicasag Island for a world-class diving site.  

* * * 

Most memorable lines from our newsmakers (and why we are moved, if we are moved): 

Vice Governor Dionisio Victor Balite on  assuring the public on the purchase of 14 new vehicles:  "Rest be assured nga during the budget hearing and approval of the budget for the next year, dili man jud mo makalimtan. Number jud sa amua health, agriculture and tourism, the rest will follow.  Ayaw mo kaguol, wala mo pasagdi sa atong  governor, sa board members. Naa rami kanunay nagtutuok ninyo. Ang tanan namo nga trabaho masubay kanunay para sa kalambhan kanatong tanan." 

Jorryme Lorono- Vodisek, who has recently just parted ways with his husband due to the 

 latter’s controversial extramarital affair with a friend: "Sa kadaghan sa trials nga atong naagian karun pa ta mo surrender? Beri wrong. Papunta pa lang tayo sa exciting part. Laban Japan." 

Shaira Mae Boyonas, the so-called "best friend" of the afam who was allegedly ruined the wedding of Jorryme:  "During the wedding day preparation, walang malisya." 

* * * 

These "practical" tips shared to us by Jeycelle Espejo-Inting of Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School. She got this from Financial Talks on Facebook: 

The toxins of the house are: 

1. Objects you no longer use.

2. Clothes You Don't Like Or haven't used in a while. Damaged underwear.

3. Broken things.

4. Old cards and notes.

5. Plants that are dead or sick.

6. Receipts and old magazines.

9. Shoes broke.

7. Stuff of all kinds calling the past.

8. If you have children, toys that are not used, that do not work or broken.

WITH CLEANING THEM OUT:

1. Health gets better.

2. Creativity grows.

3. Relationships get better.

4. There is greater reasoning capacity.

5? Improved mood.

QUESTIONS THAT MIGHT HELP CLEANSING:

- Why am I saving that?

- Is it about me today?

- How will I feel if I release that?

Separate and classify:

1. To donate.

2. To throw.

    3. To sell.

INSIDE CLEANING REFLECTED OUTSIDE.

1. Avoid extreme noises.

2. Less strong lights.

3. Less saturated colors.

4. Less chemical odors.

5. Less sad memories.

6. Finish unfinished projects.

7. Cultivate positive energy in your home.

Do a general cleaning and use boxes for organization. Start with drawers and cabinets and conclude each piece, do everything at your pace...

a) Trash.

b) Arrangements.

c) Recycling.

d) In doubt.

e) Gifts.

(f) Donation.

g) Sell.

As you cleanse, watch what changes in you.

As we clean our physical house, we also place order to our mind and heart.

Practice detachment with material things that just fill your space and you'll see how you'll slowly be able to do the same with more momentous situations.

Blessed be for you always.

* * *

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

Photo captions:

"Hudyaka sa Panglao" street-dancing competition is back last Aug.  28, in Panglao,  Bohol after it went virtual for two years due to the pandemic. Photos:  Leo Udtohan

Contingent from Barangay Lourdes is this year's Hudyaka sa Panglao grand champion. Photo: Leo Udtohan

Bohol Vice Governor Dionisio Victor Balite (with his chief of staff, lawyer Glenn Rey Anino) says the purchase of new vehicles is timely and relevant so officials could function effectively and reach their constituents easily.  Photo: Leo Udtohan

Students nervous, happy on school day opening

By Leo Udtohan

Maurine Castaño,  principal of Dr. Cecilio National High School in Tagbilaran City,  says the school has 7, 288 students and counting. The school has also to construct makeshift classrooms after the four-story building was damaged by typhoon Odette (Rai) last year. Photos: Leo Udtohan

Grade school pupils and high school students have attended their first day of classes last Monday with a mixture of anxiety and excitement.

Lady Jeen Canabes, a 13-year-old first year student of Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School (DCPNHS) in Tagbilaran City, said she was both happy and nervous on attending her first day of class along with thousands of students.

"I was nervous and excited because it's my first day of face-to-face classes," said Lady Jeen who had to learn how to wake up early. 

Authorities directed school officials of DCPNHS to vacate the four-story building for safety reasons.  

Principal Maurine Castaño said the building with 20 classrooms was damaged by typhoon Odette (international name: "Rai") last Dec. 16, 2021.  The roofs blown off by the typhoon were still on the ground.  The school authorities cordoned the area for the safety of the teachers and students. 

"If we are going to base it on our enrolment,  we really have a shortage of classroom," said Castaño.  "However,  we have innovative ways of overcoming that challenge."

Castaño said they have to construct makeshift classrooms inside the school's gymnasium to accomodate students.

The school also implemented the class program that a whole day is alloted for transient sections to accomodate those with no classrooms during vacant days.  

Some teachers were already using lapel mic on Monday's opening of classes.

Grade 7 teacher Ma. Claire Fudalan is using lapel mic while teaching  at Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School in Tagbilaran City, Bohol during last Monday’s opening of classes. Photo: Leo Udtohan

Ma. Claire Fudalan, Grade 7-Hope teacher, used lapel mic to her 31 students.

She said she has been using lapel mic inside the class for the past years.

"Using this lapel mic,  the students can hear (me) loudly,  clearly using my natural voice.  Of course,  it's a great help for my throat,"  Fudalan said.

Since she doesn’t need to raise her voice because of the noise and the clatter of students hustling through the hallway, the students are more focused and fewer teachers with strained voices.

Her colleagues are  also using the lapel mic clipped to their uniforms to preserve their voice and prevent fatigue.

DCPNHS has 7, 288 students as of Friday's enrolment compared to last year's 8,420.  Still the school has the biggest population of students in Bohol.

The school is using blended learning,  face to face and modular.  The online learning was totally wiped out due to unstable internet signal after Odette. 

The school has another campus in Barangay Cabawan to decongest population. 

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Most memorable lines from our newsmakers (and why we are moved, if we are moved): 

Col. Osmundo Salibo,  director of the Bohol Provincial Police Office, on the alleged kidnapping incidents in Ubay and Calape: "There are no parents who complained that their kids were kidnapped. Actually,  there was an information but there was no confirmation." 

Dr.  Jaime Bernadas, director of DOH-Central Visayas,  during the  turned-over of 27 ambulances to Bohol towns: "Our municipalities are the frontliners for preventive and community medicine." 

Gov.  Aris Aumentado on being endorsed as chair of the Regional Development Council (RDC)-Central Visayas: "I decided to accept the nomination because we can have harmonious working relationship with the other local chief executives of Bohol, Oriental Negros and Siquijor.  Thank you for your nomination."  

Board Member Jamie Aumentado Villamor for donating a rubber boat and safety gears to National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Region 7-Bohol Integrated Irrigation System: "NIA plays a vital role from planning, design, construction, operation, management, maintenance, and even the rehabilitation and repair of the irrigation systems.  Hence, it is only fitting to support and give importance to the equipment they need." 

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This anecdote from Capitol employee Miralyn Lopez- Munil she culled from the Internet. " Something worth sharing," she shared.  

Steve Jobs dies a billionaire, with a fortune of $7 billion, at the age of 56 from pancreatic cancer, and here are some of his last words.

“In other eyes, my life is the essence of success, but aside from work, I have a little joy. And in the end, wealth is just a fact of life to which I am accustomed.”

“At this moment, lying on the bed, sick and remembering all my life, I realize that all my recognition and wealth that I have is meaningless in the face of imminent death. You can hire someone to drive a car for you, make money for you – but you can not rent someone to carry the disease for you. One can find material things, but there is one thing that can not be found when it is lost – “LIFE”.  

Treat yourself well, and cherish others. As we get older we are smarter, and we slowly realize that the watch is worth $30 or $300 – both of which show the same time. Whether we carry a purse worth $30 or $300 – the amount of money in the wallets are the same. Whether we drive a car worth $150,000, or a car worth $30,000 – the road and distance are the same, we reach the same destination. If we drink a bottle worth $300 or wine worth $10 – the “stroller” will be the same. If the house we live in is 300 square meters, or 3000 square meters – the loneliness is the same.”

“Your true inner happiness does not come from the material things of this world.  Whether you’re flying first class, or economy class – if the plane crashes, you crash with it.”

So, I hope you understand that when you have friends or someone to talk to – this is true happiness! 

Five Undeniable Facts 

1)Do not educate your children to be rich. Educate them to be happy. – So when they grow up they will know the 

value of things, not the price.

2)Eat your food as medicine, otherwise you will need to eat your medicine as food.

3)Whoever loves you will never leave you, even if he has 100 reasons to give up. He will always find one reason to hold on.

4)There is a big difference between being human and human being.

5)If you want to go fast – go alone! But if you want to go far – go together.

And in conclusion...  

The six best doctors in the world:  Sunlight. Rest. Exercise. Diet. Self-confidence.  Friends 

Keep them in all stages of life and enjoy a healthy life. 

Whichever stage in life we are at right now, with time, we will face the day when the curtain comes down.

Treasure Love for your family, love for your spouse, love for your friends...

Treat yourself well. Cherish others. 

“Love the people God sent you, one day He’ll need them back.”

***

 

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

Bohol devotees express faith during feast of 'God the Father of All Mankind'

By Leo Udtohan

Sister Precy Aseneta-Macasaet, a missionary, vissionary and divine healer, leads the devotees in Bohol province on Sunday, Aug. 7 to celebrate  the feast of the "God the Father of All Mankind" at the St. Joseph the Worker Cathedral-Shrine in Tagbilaran City. Photo: Leo Udtohan Visayas

A devotee who credits her health recovery to the "God the Father of All Mankind" reminded her fellow faithful about the importance of faith as they celebrated the religious figure’s feast day Sunday (Aug. 7).

"My faith brought me closer to God. Faith is the victory," said Lucina Lugod, 48, a resident of Barangay Balintawak, Talibon.

Lugod said her faith and devotion to the God the Father of All Mankind was strengthened when she underweant surgery for breast cancer on Feb. 12, 2021.

Her anxiety grew when she found out that the cancer cells grew abnormally and spread.

It was Sister Precy Aseneta-Macasaet, a missionary, vissionary and divine healer, who shared to her about God the Father and prayed for her recovery.

After praying, laboratory results showed she was negative of cancer cells.

"In those days I was thinking my chance for survival was very slim. I was emotionally and spiritually down including financial crises. But God the Father of All Mankind provides everything," she said. "Having faith is to trust in God, to believe in God's ability to sustain and uphold us."

On Sunday, she and her husband Christopher, 45, travelled to St. Joseph the Worker the Tagbilaran Cathderal-Shrine in Tagbilaran City, at least 109_km from Talibon, for Sunday's feast.

She met her fellow devotees and Sister Precy who were wearing white Filipiniana.

Earlier, Sister Precy and her group distributed food to at least 100 candle vendors.

Devotees attend Mass during the feast of the "God the Father of All Mankind" at the St. Joseph the Worker Cathedral-Shrine last Aug. 7, 2022. Photo: Leo Udtohan Visayas

It was in 2010 that Sister Precy, who is from Davao City, introduced the God the Father of All Mankind to Bohol province after following God’s will.

"It was God the Father who brought me to this place because He wants his children to know him,” said Sister Precy.

"God the Father's mercy and love is eternal. It is not only limitless, it flows from His heart of complete love and compassion for us," she added.

The feast of the God the Father of All Mankind is held every first Sunday of August, as a day of consecration to God the Father.

At 9 a.m. Sunday' Holy Mass officiated by Bishop Abet Uy, in his homily he told devotees and parishioners that faith is much more than passive belief. It is express our through action and the way we live.

He narrated that Abraham's faith in God was tested in a way that most of us will never know. But Abraham took God at His word, and became the father of our faith.

"Our devotion to God the Father means we have only one father in heaven. It means we have to see as one another as brothers and sisters. Faith is to believe of what you not see. The reward of the faith is to see what you believe," he said.

Bishop Uy also consecrated the image of the God the Father of All Mankind.

Sister Precy said more and more people have become devotees of the God the Father of All Mankind not just in Bohol province but as well in Cebu, Manila and Cagayan de Oro City.

She said he will never get tired of serving the God the Father of All Mankind for as long she lives.

"I am ready where He will send me," said Sister Precy who will visit Baguio City, Nueva Ecija and Tuguegarao City for her mission. 

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Most memorable lines from our newsmakers (and why we are moved, if we are moved): 

Gov. Aris Aumentado on the closure of Virgin Island for vendors: "Ban forever didto sa Virgin Island tungod kay maoy gusto sa DENR kay protected area man to. Pero sightseeing puwede pa. Kabahin sa namaligya og mga pagkaon ug adto magpakaon murag" no" na gyud to."

Philippines’ first Olympic gold medalist

Hidilyn Diaz to aspirant weightlifters during the National Weightlifting Championships held Tagbilaran City: “Dream high, make more sacrifices and give more love.”

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

Virgin Island: paradise reborn

By Leo Udtohan 

The Virgin Island is back to its natural beauty. No more food vendors on the sandbar. Photo: Jhelmar Jala

Eyesore no more. 

That's how residents and tourists felt when makeshift food stalls were removed at the famous Virgin Island in Panglao town. 

The new look of the sandbar means it is now restored to its original and pristine beauty. 

Jocelyn Cabatos-Orcullo, a legal researcher, said having no structures at the area fits in the definition of a "Virgin." 

"By the looks of it, the island is Virgin. Can we keep it this way?" said Orcullo of the new face of the sandbar she saw on the social media. 

Romie Darunday-Bullecer, an optometrist, said it was a nice decision to remove the structures. 

"Very beautiful view!! The sandbar can be more appreciated without the disturbing structures. This is a  wise decision by Panglao Mayor. Leave it this way and see that more tourists will appreciate this!! All is well that ends well," she said on Facebook. 

Panglao Mayor Edgardo "Boy" Arcay had prohibited vendors and other tourism activities starting Wednesday after a complaint on pricey food became viral in the social media. 

"Virgin Island is only for sightseeing," he said.

The inter-agency meeting presided by Gov. Aris Aumentado had a unanimous decision to ban the operation of the tourism activities in the Virgin island.

"While LGU of Panglao has the primary jurisdiction over the establishments and the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) over the island, the Provincial Government of Bohol, to the extent possible, will step in to ensure that there is a strike of balance and harmony in the enforcement of environment protection laws, tourism standards and the welfare of all stakeholders - including the tourists, vendors and the public in general," said Aumentado. 

"We need to fix this because it's embarassing for our tourists and visitors, " he added. 

Board member Jamie Villamor, chairman on environment and natural resources, said it's about balance of conservation efforts and tourism. 

Villamor, who authored the resolution to create a task force to look into the incident, said the Virgin Island is under the intensified protection of the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System Act of 2018, Presidential Decree 1081 and other existing laws, rules and regulations. 

She said generally under existing environmental laws, certain regulation on commercial activities is in place such that multiple use resources may be subjected to limited commercial activity. 

"Are vendors in the sandbar and on waters considered as limited commercial activity? Is the Virgin Island classified as multiple use protected area? If yes, was it officially declared? Otherwise, there has to be total prohibition as such is a protected area with strict use," Villamor asked. 

The overpricing controversy became viral  online after a woman posted on Facebook account that her friend's group of 13 who had lunch last July 29 paid a total of P26,100 for the seafood and drinks that they ordered 

However, the food vendors at the Virgin Island denied selling seafood to tourists at exorbitant prices. 

To help the displaced vendors, the 

Panglao Municipal Tourism Council (MPTC)  recommended to the municipal government that they can hold a "food street or night market" at Panglao Plaza where the vendors can sell their products.

"To be fair and just for the affected vendors as well, they shall be able to continuously sell out whatever perishable stock on hand," the MPTC statement said.

The night market will coincide with the celebration of Hudyaka Festival celebration for the annual town fiesta this month.

* * *

Most memorable lines from our newsmakers (and why we are moved, if we are moved): 

Joeper Colubio on the pricey food at Virgin Island: " We have no intention nga daoton sila. Tarung lang unta ilang pricing klaruhon unta nila para walay laing mabiktima. Nice kaayo ang Bohol. I hope tanan maka-experience sa Bohol kay nindot kaayo." 

Fidel Clenista, vendor at Virgin Island: " Wala mi nagpalabi sa among presyo. Ang iyang gibuhat namo mawad-an mig panginabuhian. Daghan mi diri madamay. " 

* * * 

Your media people at the Virgin Island last Friday, Aug. 5, 2022. Photo: Helen Castaño

Foreign and domestic tourists continue to flood the Virgin Island despite the pricey food controversies. 

"And finally we are back here with Virgin Island.. And its back to its pristine nature and look you can see illegal structures have been dismantled.. .. And so happy this is paradise again, back to its virgin state," said Bohol's seasoned host Raul Gatal who visited the sandbar on Friday. 

Gatal was with other regional and some Bohol media for an ocular visit.

Provincial Administrator Aster Caberte said that vendors had many violations including health and sanitation.

She also said the incident was a wake-up call to the entire tourism industry. 

 "This wake-up call has triggered a lot of action from the long overdue action from the local tourism stakeholders," said Caberte.

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BISU joins Philippine Education Mission in Canada

By Leo Udtohan

Dr. Zina Sayson, BISU Vice President for Research Development, Extension and International Linkages together with University International Relations Officer Dr. Francis Delusa have attended the

High-level Higher Education Partnership Mission last June 26-29, 2022 at Whistler, British Columbia, Canada. Contributed photos

Taking part in intensifying the Philippine-Canada education system, two personnel from Bohol Island State University (BISU) joined the recently Philippine Higher Education Partnership Mission to Canada to pursue academic exchanges. 

BISU were represented by Dr. Zina Sayson, BISU Vice President for Research Development, Extension and International Linkages, and Dr. Francis Delusa, University International Relations Officer. 

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Commissioner Aldrin Darilag recently led a High-level Higher Education Partnership Mission last June 26-29, 2022 at Whistler, British Columbia, Canada in behalf of CHED Commissioner Popoy De Vera to expand opportunities to engage in academic and research partnerships on health sciences, renewable energy, agriculture, engineering and technology, data science and disaster risk management, among others. 

Darilag was accompanied by CHED International Affairs Service Atty. Lily Milla, Deputy Executive Director, Trade Commissioner for Education of the Embassy of Canada in the Philippines Angel Cachuela, International Relation Officers and officials from 17 Philippine Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) namely; Benguet State University, Bohol Island State University (BISU), Catanduanes State University, Cavite State University, Central Luzon State University, Eastern Visayas State University, Isabela State University, Leyte Normal University, MAPUA University, Panpacific University, Panpacific University-Tayug Campus, Quirino State University, Romblon State University, Samar State University, Tarlac Agricultural University, Unibersidad de Dagupan and University of the Philippines. 

One of the highlights of the said conference was focused on international university rankings —its methodology, scope and engagement, data sets and global visibility. The world university rankings depend on various indicators such as in teaching, research, citation, industry income and international prospect, Therefore, these indicators additionally help in ranking universities as a top university. 

Dr. Daniel Guhr, the managing director of the Illuminate Consulting Group, spoke about the process of university rankings particularly the various indicators or core data used for rankings.  

Sayson and Delusa were able to accomplished the Letter of Intent (LOI) for Academic Cooperation between the 18 Philippine Higher Education Institutions signed by and between British Columbia Council for International Education. 

The parties intend to propose projects and activities on the following but not limited to exchange of undergraduate and /or graduate students on a reciprocal and balanced basis; mobility of faculty members and researchers; cooperative research and joint project development for external funding support; development and /or delivery of course including online courses; join teaching or supervision of graduate students; joint seminars, conferences, and academic meetings; exchange of scientific information materials that are of mutual interests; development of experiential education abroad programs including short-term summer abroad and field; study programs, internships and practicum. 

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Mabini celebrates 118th founding anniversary

By Leo Udtohan

The town of Mabini celebrates its 118th Founding Anniversary on July 23, 2022. Photos: Leo Udtohan

 

 

The 118th founding anniversary of Mabini  was a day to remember as citizens were treated to various events and activities prepared by the local government on Saturday, July 23. 

Prior to July 23, the local government prepared activities as early as Wednesday, July 13, in anticipation of Mabini Day. 

Days before the founding anniversary, the local government held colorful festivities such as music and dance contests, motocross, Mabini Got Talent and parades to pay tribute to the town’s rich culture and heritage.

Seniors also received their birthday cash gifts. 

Mayor Ongie Grace Bernales-Lim and Vice Mayor Vice-Mayor Myra Fostanes Colis shared the town’s accomplishments over the years and their plans, programs, and projects for the next three years.

On July 23, the municipality honored  those who have contributed to the progress and development of the town such as barangay tanods (village watchmen), health workers, village chiefs and volunteers. 

 

The awarding ceremony was held at the municipal gymnasium attended by former 

assistant secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and now provincial administrator Aster Caberte, 3rd district Rep. Alexie Besas-Tutor, board member Tita Baja and former Mabini Mayor Stephen Rances.

To cap off the day’s celebration, Mabini citizens rocked out to CenterStage, one of Bohol's most sought-after party bands,  

which graced the stage in a concert held at the gymnasium at 8 p.m. 

This is the first Mabini Day celebration of Mayor Lim, 39, the youngest mayor of Mabini town has ever produced. 

Mabini was founded on July 23, 1904 through a resolution approved by then Governor General of the Philippines, the town of Mabini was initially composed of the three large barangays of Libas or Ubayon from Candijay, Batuanan (now Alicia), and Cabulao from Ubay.

Capitan Canuto Bernales, General Pedro Samsom and Atty. Gabino Sepulveda established the town when the Philippines Governor General issued a directive to organize large barangays into towns.

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