Loboc residents ask Our Lady to calm the river

By Leo Udtohan

TAGBILARAN CITY- The famous river in Loboc town has started to subside on Thursday afternoon, Jan. 12, after it reached critical level following the continuous rains brought by low pressure area and shear line.

As of Thursday afternoon, the water level of Loboc River in the area was already at

90 meters above sea level, lower compared to Thursday early morning.

There were 74 families in Barangay Valladolid were evacuated since Wednesday. They were part of the 626 families or 788 individuals evacuated in the province in 18 towns. 

Before the water level went down, residents turned to prayer. 

Residents placed an  image of the Our Lady of Guadalupe de Extremadura in front of the river at the Museo de Loboc building.

Expressions of religious piety have been practiced in Loboc town as a response to plagues and pandemics even during the arrival of the image on May 24, 1843.

Vir Jala, 50, said they seek comfort in prayer and appeal to God and the saints for mercy and protection from illness and loss of life.

"My parents taught us to seek help from Our Lady," said Jala, a father of three.

The veneration of sacred images and placing them outside the window of a house or a church is a religious expression known as "dungaw” (to look out).

Even passers could not help but look up to the image, and waved to the image.

The devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe originated from the hilly town Guadalupe  in Spanish region of Extremadura, close to the Portuguese border.

Church records said the Augustinian Recollect brought the image of the Lady carved from black wood.

Like its Bohol descendant, the Spanish image is dressed like a queen, stands erect, and holds the Child in one arm. Both the mother and child are dark-skinned, and belong to the tradition of the “Black Madonnas” of medieval Western Europe.

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Photo caption:

The image of the Our Lady of Guadalupe de Extremadura was placed in front of the Loboc River in Loboc after it swells due to inclement weather, known as "dungaw” (to look out) to calm the river. Leo Udtohan/Inquirer Visayas

Loay Old bridge stirs memories

By Leo Udtohan 

The Olegario B. Clarin Sr. Bridge in Loay town was a landmark in the province. As the bridge collapsed last Wednesday, April 27, 202, associated memories for communities and generations of people could well be lost. Photos: Leo Udtohan

When I was a young boy, I could easily tell I was in Loay town upon seeing the Olegario B. Clarin Sr. Bridge that crossed over the Loboc River.

A lot of my travels (especially going to San Miguel and Ubay towns) is tied to that bridge, so it’s a bit melancholic to think that it’s gone. 

My last stop at the bridge was on Feb. 21, 2016. I was with journalists Jessa Agua-Ylanan and Edward Guyano. We took a souvenir photo before attending the birthday party of Engr. Buboy Labunog. After dinner, we were treated for a quick tour to the Aeta tribe while cruising the river. The bridge was the starting point for the firefly tour.

To the old Clarin bridge, thank you for being part of every Boholano and visitor’s travel. To the new one, looking forward to decades of travel and commute. May you withstand the trials of times, as your predecessor did.

* * * 

Sad day for Bohol 

Newly married Austrian couple Michael and Julia Ouschan were on their way back to their hotel in Panglao town, after driving around the province when tragedy struck on Wednesday afternoon.

Their rented car was among the vehicles that fell into Loboc River when the old Loay Bridge collapsed past 4 p.m.

Michael was among the four people who died in the tragedy that also injured 23 others. The other fatalities were 

Arniel Cilos, 40, of Dauis; Emilia Gimena, 72, of Loay; Epifhany Carmee Oñada, 29, of Tagbilaran City.

Gov. Arthur Yap said the Austrian Embassy in Manila had been informed about the death of Michael.

“It’s a sad day for Loay and Bohol,” said Loay Mayor Hilario Ayuban Jr.

Police said the Ouschans, who were in Bohol for their honeymoon, rented a car and toured the province. They were already on their way back to their hotel in Panglao when the accident happened.

Julia survived after her husband pushed her out of their submerged car. Michael, however, failed to get out of the vehicle.

Julia was inconsolable after rescuers recovered Michael’s body past 7 p.m.

Oñada, was with his friends, Alberto Manuel and Gian Arlo Gagni, on board another vehicle and on their way home after putting up campaign posters of a senatorial candidate. His friends tried to get him out of the vehicle until they ran out of breath.

When Alberto's mother, Glorivic, learned of the news, she immediately went to the area. She hugged her son and Gian when she saw them alive. 

"Epi was like a son to me, a part of the family," said Glorivic, a former barangay captain in Tagbilaran City.

According to Anthony Damalerio, provincial disaster risk reduction and management officer, the bridge collapsed into the 8-meter deep Loboc River due to overloading and the condition of the structure, which was built in the 1970s. It linked Barangays Villalimpia and Poblacion Ubos in Loay.

Several vehicles were on the bridge when the accident happened.

Damalerio said the bridge collapsed when a dump truck, which carried “anapog” (limestone), reached the middle section of the structure, citing accounts by Jury Namboc, who was working in another bridge which was being constructed to replace the old one.

The new bridge, worth P465 million, was expected to be completed within the year. But apparently due to the accident, the new bridge would be opened on May 3, according to Magiting Cruz, district engineer of the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) third engineering office here.

According to Ayuban, the DPWH allows vehicles to pass through the old bridge while the replacement bridge is being constructed.

Liberato Lupot Jr., a civil engineer and dean of the College of Engineering and Technology at BIT International College here, said Clarin Bridge was a single-span bridge with no intermediate column in the middle.

Lupot, a professor on bridge engineering, said single-span bridges were safe as long as these met the standards.

“Vehicle overloading damages road surfaces and causes fractures in bridges, greatly shortening the service life of roads. Heavy load causes metal fatigue aside from oxidation or rusting,” he said.

What happened to Clarin Bridge, he said, was a “total rupture.”

Constructed in the 1970s, the bridge had undergone retrofitting after a 7.2-magnitude quake hit Bohol in 2013.

The lifespan of a steel bridge, Lupot said, is 50 to 60 years, shorter than that of a concrete bridge which could last for 100 years.

Loboc Riverwatch earns 2013 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence

Wake-uppers:

Seen: Direk Maryo J. De los Reyes, cast and crew are in Anda, Bohol. Direk Maryo has chosen Anda for his film entry Bamboo Flowers in the forthcoming “Sining Pambansa Film Festival, All-Masters Edition” this September 2013 and hopefully be part of the International Children’s Film Festival. The film will also feature Abatan River, Kawasan Falls of Balilihan, Catigbian’s adventure site, Corella and Loboc Tarsier’s Sanctuary, Chocolate Hills of Carmen, Alicia Bamboo Ensemble and Panglao Island.

Scene: From re-elected 3rd district Congressman Art Yap: Elections always bring out the best and worst in us. This year's elections was no exception. But in the end, no lies nor propaganda, no threat nor violence, no vice nor money can stand against the truth of the people's will. For one day in three years,  the people get to judge their public officials. The people have spoken. Let us honor the people by graciously accepting their choices. Congratulations to all the winning candidates, thank you for all the courageous  and steadfast support to my campaign and my gratitude to the Lord Almighty. God bless our incoming term and God bless Bohol.

Scene: The mass resignation of the staff of the Tubigon Tourism Culture Arts and Heritage Office, organizer of Anyag sa Tubigon, Tanda Festival Street Dancing and Sambunot sa Awit when incumbent Mayor  William Jao lost to mayor-elect Marlon Amila. Some sectors call it sour-graping, however, according to VRS, the resignation was to give the new administration a free hand in choosing his staff who will run his programs for the town.

Seen:  Spotted in Bohol is erstwhile commissioner of the National Youth Commission Benjie Oliva. If you think Benjie is missing in action, he is busy traveling the country as personal assistant of Agriculture Sec. Proceso Alcala.

Scene: Thank you to all my family and friends for the overwhelming birthday wishes and cheer yesterday (May 25). I thank you many times over for all the birthday greetings! This very special message from a friend: The way of all peace is to scale the mountain of self. Loving others makes the climb down easier. We see all things darkly until love lights the lamp of the soul.
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Loboc Riverwatch receives 2013 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence

Courtesy: Tripadvisor

Loboc Riverwatch has received a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence award. The accolade, which honors hospitality excellence, is given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveler reviews on TripAdvisor, and is extended to qualifying businesses worldwide. Only the top-performing 10 percent of businesses listed on TripAdvisor receive this prestigious award.

"The Loboc Riverwatch Floating Resto is honored to be recognized with TripAdvisor's Certificate of Excellence," said Tessie Labunog-Sumampong. "We strive to offer our customers a memorable dining experience, and this accolade is evidence that our hard work is translating into positive reviews on TripAdvisor."

The Loboc Riverwatch, the Floating Resto to the Stars, is the only restaurant in Bohol which offers authentic Boholano cuisine.

"The Certificate of Excellence award provides top performing establishments around the world the recognition they deserve, based on feedback from those who matter most – their customers," said Christine Petersen, president of TripAdvisor for Business.

To qualify for a Certificate of Excellence, businesses must maintain an overall rating of four or higher, out of a possible five, as reviewed by travelers on TripAdvisor, and must have been listed on TripAdvisor for at least 12 months. Additional criteria include the volume of reviews received within the last 12 months.

On the other hand,  Amorita Resort has earned yet another distinction as a winner of the TripAdvisor 2013 Traveler’s Choice Award, ranking eighth among the Top 25 Hotels in the Philippines.

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GMA Kapuso gives away 2,000 school bags to Bohol
Education, a basic children’s right, comes with a challenge especially in the country’s most desolate areas. Fortunately, GMA Kapuso Foundation, the socio-civic arm of the GMA Network, is reaching out to far-flung communities to touch more Filipino lives.

Last week, I accompanied Amabelle Rusiana,  the regional coordinator of GMA Kapuso Foundation and the DepED people, for the distribution of GMA Kapuso Foundation's bags and school supplies under its project “Unang Hakbang sa Kinabukasan (First Step towards the Future)".

Some 2,000 children in Grade 1 levels in five district schools of Bohol (Baclayon, Albur, Loay, Lila and Dimiao) have recently received school supplies from GMA Kapuso Foundation.

The children received a package of school supplies packed in a knapsack that contains  five notebooks, two pencils, two pad papers, a sharpener, and a box of crayon.

Evident with the loud expressions of “Thank you” to GMA Kapuso, the children including their parents and the local school authorities were grateful for the initiative hoping that this will encourage the kids to value and pursue education, amidst poverty, to improve their lives.

The company and its foundation will continue to help ensure that many of the Philippines’ next generation achieve a bright future.

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

Tessie’s sumptuous feast of traditional Boholano cuisine

Wake-uppers:

Scene: The 14 contingents for the 2nd Cobra International Dragon Boat Competition in Dauis, Bohol.

 

Seen: Spotted in Bohol last week was Journey’s lead singer Arnel Pineda. Now sporting short hair, Arnel was mobbed by fans at the Loboc River.

 

Scene: From Fiel Angeli Araoarao-Gabin, City Information Officer, on Saulog festival: The City Government of Tagbilaran and the Cathedral Parish of Saint Joseph the Worker are embarking on collaborative efforts for this year’s celebration of the feast of Saint Joseph the Worker on May 1 dubbed “Pit Senor San Jose! Viva San Jose! Viva Tagbilaran!” Starting last Monday, April 22 with the daily novena at 4:30 p.m., followed by a holy mass at 5:30 p.m.  at the Cathedral and the nightly activities at 7:30 p.m. at the Tagbilaran Port, the activities are aimed at reviving, preserving and promoting the city’s significant tradition and unique cultural heritage, in cognizance with Executive Order No. 2 Series of 2013 which created the City Council for Culture and the Arts.

 

On April 29, from 2 to 6 p.m., the statues of Saint Joseph, Mother Mary and Santo Nino comprising the Holy Family will be featured during the fluvial procession from Manga Port to Sitio Ubos, Poblacion I.

 

On April 30, the first-ever “Saulog Tagbilaran,” a religion-based cultural activity, bringing to the fore the life of Saint Joseph, the City’s patron saint, as a loving father and devoted worker and the local devotees’ way of paying homage and thanksgiving. The streetdancing also intends to drumbeat the 250th anniversary of the Cathedral Parish of Saint Joseph the Worker in 2017. The 9 contingents - Bool, Booy, Cabawan, Cogon, Manga, Mansasa, Poblacion I, Poblacion 2 and Ubujan - shall assemble along the Old City Hall at 12 noon. The streetdancing shall kick off at 1:00 p.m., turning left at C. Gallares Street, turning right at B. Inting Street, proceeding right to CPG Avenue along City Square, turning right at J.S. Torralba near Plaza Rizal, making a left turn at E. Sarmiento fronting the Cathedral, turning left at J. A. Clarin Street leading towards the Tagbilaran City Hall Compound.

 

Hapit na jud ang fiesta sa Tagbilaran (May 1), the opening salvo of the month-long fiesta season of Bohol.

 

Scene: From erstwhile Tubigon’s Queen of All Media Raymund Delgado: Anyag 2008 Clarice Radoc has a very huge chance of winning the crown however her tight schedule couldnt warrant the requirements and demands of joining a provincial pageant. As of Anyag 2011 Lori Geisha Cabrera , we are still subjecting her to some further enhancing trainings that would further bring out the best in her and mold her to become more competitive in the provincial level. Since the previous year when I was connected with the University of San Jose Recoletos as a full time professor , I only focus on handling one committee in Anyag and that is the Committee on Seminars, Trainings and Workshops to bring out the best in all our candidates and reserve beauty queens and I do see the value of a good education as a foundation for success in any endeavors. Even, Miss Teen Bohol 2012 Thea Rizaldo was molded by the A-List Beauty and Personality Academy, which is the basic education arm of the Anyag sa Tubigon.

 

Until this present moment in time, we at Anyag envisions of producing globally competitive and empowered beauty queens which would not only excel in the municipal level but also at the national and international levels. Though I’m no longer connected with the Local Government Unit of Tubigon I still take an active role and part in the committee since I do see that this is my way of giving back to the community who gave me my identity as a Tubignon.

 

(Note: The Anyag sa Tubigon 2013 is on May 10 with special guest Daniel Padilla. Tickets are at Php300 (Blue), Php500 (Orange) and Php 1,000 (Fuschia). Visit or call Tubigon Tourism Office at (038) 508-8496.)

 

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The flamboyant chef and food connoisseur Anthony Bourdain of No Reservations food tripping in America made me relish in my head those gustatory adventures I went through vacationing in the US.

 

Like music, food does bring people together. My bonding moments with friends in the US revolve around anything edible-- that there are plenty to eat and thank God for-- and you can’t feel the economy is down.

 

Here’s the tip: To enjoy your stay in the land of milk and honey that is America, never convert. I stopped whining about how I have to shell out $2 for a bottle of cranberry juice or Hershey’s chocolate when I can get it here for a reasonable price.

 

Food tripping in the US. Yours truly with (clockwise) Lorenzo and Richel Galaura, Mikey and his Thai friend Kevin and Alot and Babat Bagotchay.

The King’s Buffet in Hollywood was the first restaurant I had bonding moment with a Boholano family. Lorenzo Galaura (from Jagna town), his wife Richel and daughter Loraine invited me for a dinner. Lorenzo is a nurse and a tennis enthusiast. At 13, Loraine, who stands 5”5”, is an A+ student in a private school in LA and a potential beauty queen in the future. After dinner, the Galaura family brought me to The Grove for another bonding moment.

 

My real bonding with US-based Boholano socialite Mikey Gatal was the Thai (Thai Restaurant in Hollywood) and Korean (Haus of Desserts) cuisines. Since Mikey has a Thai friend, he loves to introduce Thai food that when TV/concert-producer Amy Almirol had to see us, we ended at the Thai restaurant in downtown LA).

 

My bonding with RN and make-up artist Rey Reformina was the Chinese cuisine. He brought me to Regent Chinese restaurant near the famous Union Station.

 

My bonding food with Jocelyn Oppus, Babat Malacay and Jinky Jane Labrador were Burger King, Jollibee, McDonalds and The Pantry. When hunger strikes you on the road, turn to Jollibee Drive Thru.

 

The send-off dinner with Miss BodyShots International 2013 Janelle Logrono, Lorenzo and Richel Galaura, Alot and Babat Bagotchay, Mikey and Rey was held at the at the Ganda Thai Restaurant.

 

After my vacation, I’m gaining weight. I need to go on a diet…so I thought…   

 

As promised, we showed up with “empty stomachs” early Tuesday noon at Loboc Riverwatch (the “Floating Resto to the Stars,” you will know why when you will visit their booth at the Loboc River Complex) of Tessie Labunog-Sumampong. “We” included Liza Macalandag of Lifestyle Bohol, my nephew Jhelmar Jala and yours truly.

 

The next time you visit the famous Loboc River (the River of Life), you can indulge yourself in authentic Boholano cuisine at the Loboc Riverwatch. It is the only floating restaurant which offers a wide array of mouth-watering traditional Boholano cuisine.  

 

As most people must know by now, years ago Tessie was hired to manage a floating restaurant. When she was given the opportunity to run her own floating restaurant, Tessie’s imagination was activated. Voila, a few weeks later she put up her own floating restaurant, the Loboc Riverwatch.

 

Tessie and her Loboc Riverwatch team cooked “borrowed” foods. They served the same menu with other floating restaurants. So, Tessie gave it a try last April when guests started asking for Boholano cuisine and it has been doing good business since then.

 

Tessie Labunog-Sumampong

“Most of the restaurants here do not serve the Boholano cuisine, it's time to show to them what we have,” said Tessie. “I am not afraid of change. I make it sure I am always open to new challenges and ready for discoveries.”

 

On Tessie’s menu: Pancit bisaya, piniritong manok, humbang baboy, kusahos,  lauja, manok hinalang, humbang nangka, ensaladang talong, guso salad, spicy crab, escabeche, inon-on, shrimps and crabs, puto cheese,  manga with uyap, native kakanin, cathy’s cuchinta, bibingka’s special, fruits in season and dol-dol.

 

And the visitors embraced her Bol-anon cuisine with gusto.

 

The classic Filipino pork dish, the humba (Visayan answer to adobo from the North) and the kusahos  de Loboc (sun dried carabeef strips) are the best sellers.

 

 “Whether cooking food or managing the floating restaurant, everything should be done with love and passion,” said Tessie.

 

Tessie’s Boholano cuisine at the floating restaurant is at P350 per person (just add 50 pesos for the municipal fee) and it is “eat all you can.” The price is worth it because she never scrimps on ingredients.

 

Try to imagine: They serve a buffet lunch. The musician is very entertaining. The river cruise is relaxing.

 

Riding at Loboc Riverwatch will also double as charity work for you since she helps public schools in Loboc (Bartolome Doria Elem. School and Tambis Elem. School in Calunasan Norte).

 

And so how do I rate that Boholano cuisine of Tessie’s Loboc Riverwatch? It’s, burp, filling.

 

The mouth-watering traditional Boholano cuisine at the Loboc Riverwatch Floating Restaurant, the Floating Resto to the Stars.

 

 

 

(Note: Loboc Riverwatch: Tel. No: (038) - 537–9460, (038) -537–9460; Mobile: +63918 - 510 – 4032/ +63917- 306–0010/+63917-382–2254; Email: lobocriverwatch@gmail.com)

 

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

50 things to do this Summer 2012

 

Yes, indeed the days are longer and the nights are shorter… it’s summer na summer!

 

Bared came up with a list of things to do that can make your summer of 2012 more memorable and enjoyable.  Read on.

 

1.     Give your Facebook page a summery look.

 

2.     Experience firefly kayaking and moonlit paddling! See an entire tree glowing with thousands of fireflies like a Christmas trees.  Call/text Kayakasia at 0932-855-2928 or email: kayakbohol@gmail.com.

 

3.     The hot weather of summer always see a boom of summer coolers for relief: visit Chowking for halo-halo special, Bohol Bee Farm/The Buzz for homemade ice-creams, Metro Centre for halo-halo and shakes, Garden Café’ for halo-halo with pumpkin pie and shakes, Shoppers' Mart for halo-halo and buko pandan, Jo's Chicken Inato "Payag" for buko shake and green mango shake and Bohol House of Ube a.k.a. Mama Nena's Ube Jam for the extra ube ice cream and buko pandan macaron with ube filling!

 

4.     The sun's out? Head to Panglao Island, Pandanon Island, Bien Unido and Anda. Believe me, the beach is just the beginning!

 

5.     Research your family tree. Compiling your family history is a priceless legacy for future generations.

 

6.     Learn about nature and animals. Visit the new home of Prony, butterfly sanctuaries in Bilar and Sagbayan, Tarsier Botanica in Panglao and tarsier sanctuary in Corella and Loboc.  

 

7.     Start a blog,  zine or twitter this summer. Learn to use Photoshop and instagram for photo sharing.

 

8.     Paint your toe nails and fingernails with bright sparkly polish.

 

9.     Fly a kite. Haven't flown a kite since you were a tot? Fly your kite on the beach or in an open field, where the wind is often at its strongest mph. The wind is calling!

 

10.  Donate some of the toys and clothes you no longer use. Recycle bottles and donate the money to a local charity.

#4 The beach is just the beginning. The province just abounds with gorgeous beaches from north to south, east to west. LPU

 

11.  Adopt a pet. You can ask Dr. Gerry Egos and Dr. Homer Singco for tips.

 

12.  Spend time with your grandparents. It is a blessing to have grandparents around. There is a lot they can share with the young in terms of experiences, values, love and time.

 

13.  Buy some wacky sunglasses and wear them in public!  They can be ultra-big, ultra-goofy, ultra-glam and ultra-anything for an ultra-hilarious day!

 

14.  Learn a new sport. Learn a new dance. Learn to write a poem. Learn a new song. Learn to play a new musical instrument.

 

15.  Try new dishes at Crab House, Miravilla Resort, Gerry’s Grill, Mang Inasal , Rai-Rai Ken, Payag, Loboc Riverwatch Floating Restaurant, Oops Bar and Garden Café.

 

16.  Visit Loboc River, the river of life. Feel the breeze, relax and enjoy the rondalla and music while eating and cruising along the Loboc River.

 

17.  Learn a foreign language. Say “Bonjour” (French), “Selamat pagi” (Indonesian), “Al salaam a’alaykum” (Arabic) and “Ni hao” (Mandarin)!

           

18.  Go outside and find 20 different kinds of flowers. How many flowers you can identify? Bougainvilla, gumamela, orchids, santan, cosmos…

 

19.  Make a summer scrapbook or cut up an old greeting card picture and make a puzzle.

 

20.  Watch your favorite soap operas!  I heard Princess and I and Dong Yi!

 

21.  Go stargazing. Did you know that the three belt stars of Orion represent the Three Wise Men?

 

22.  Do some charity works. Check the Gov. Celestino Gallares Regional Hospital and Sunshine Home. Volunteer to read to children at the Provincial Library. Visit the Philippine National Red Cross-Bohol chapter if you want to give the safest blood possible to save life.

 

23.  Be a fan of thrilling adventures as you feel the rush! Visit EAT Danao and Loboc Zipline!

 

24.  Interact with Chito Visarra, Fred Araneta and Jerry Pabe on dyRD’s Inyong Alagad  and Tagbilaran By Nite.  You can also interact with BG GuingGuing, Ted Ayeng and Atty. Salva Diputado on dyTR’s Cuentas Claras.  

#3 Summer coolers to quench your thirst on a hot summer days. Credit: House of Ube

 

25.  Have a fill of Boholano bread and pastries at Central Bakery for pan de sal and binangkal, Jojie's Bakeshop's sliced bread, torta, cay-cay, otap; BQ Bread Basket's farmers bread, French bread and bahug-bahug (colored bread); Alturas/Island City Mall Bread Cottage's Spanish bread; Ramirez Cakes and Pastries' cakes; Shopper's Mart's torta; Jojie’s Painitang Bol-anon, Pasonangka's special siopao, Empanada Alma's empanada, Park 'n Go's caramel bread, Sunny Angel’s Peanut Nuggets, Osang’s broa, Tessie Pagdato’s broa; and Bohol Bee Farm's camote bread, squash and carrot muffins.

 

26.  Make a music video– and upload it on youtube! I’ve had the time of my life, and I’ve never felt this way before...

 

27.  Tune in to FM stations for songs. Inday Rufing (Basta Kiss FM, lingaw jud) and Inday Charity (True Radio). Memorize their pick-up lines: Ginamush, tugnosh, dugosh and mamaligya pa og kangkong sa pantalan!  If you like showbiz, tune in to Ped Bolanio’s Showbiz Rampa on dyRD or to Anjing Poquita and Inday Charity’s Showbiz Chika.

 

28.  Go on a nature hike, backpacking/camping trip in Bilar. Don't forget to bring a camera.

 

29.  Enroll in summer classes (ballet, art and theater workshop).

 

30.  Let Dr. James Sombrio and Dr. Aileen Tan-Magdoza remove those wrinkles on your face so that you can face the summer "flawlessly"!

 

31.  Look for old family photos and share them on Facebook.

 

32.  Be the master of kusina!! Learn to cook new recipes for family and friends.

 

33.  Live a healthy life. Stop smoking, watch your diet, go for a walk or run, take vitamins, sleep on time and drink at least eight glasses of water per day.

 

34.  Change something in or add something to your room and clean it, too. Sell your old stuff. You'll clean out your room and make a little cash at the same time.

 

35.  Read the Bible or Q’uran. Thy word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path.

 

36.  Don’t entertain negative things in life. Unload emotional baggage.

 

37.  Any problem with your health? Visit the Bohol Medical Clinic for diagnostic tests. If you have time, consult Dr. Angelito Lechago.

 

38.  Have a perfect smile this summer! Visit Dr. Josephine Tago Yap and Dr. Chai Econg (Yap Dental Clinic, City Square or the Bohol Dental Clinic at ICM, +638 501-7767), Dr. Mary Grace Ochavillo-Uy (J&N Dental Clinic, 2nd floor, City Pharmacy +638 411-5317), and Dr. Rhenz Alvin Uy Acedo (Acedo Dental Clinic in Fatima, Ubay, Bohol, +638 518-8286/0908-7793341).

 

39.  Don’t fail to visit Tagbilaran City’s Caingget Beach. Taste the famous koja (a coral clam which is believed to have aphrodisiac qualities), sinugbang sunghan and tuba.

 

40.  Watch movies at the Island City Mall's Screenville Cinema and BQ Cinema.          

 

41.  Make a CD of your favorite summertime songs. Summertime and the livin' is easy, fish are jumpin' and the cotton is high…

 

42.  This summer, enjoy inviting water of Lonoy Spring in Jagna, Mag-aso Falls in Antequera, Logarita Spring in Bilar and Badiang Spring in Valencia.

 

43.  Play your favorite childhood games with the kids. Those childhood games were the ’good old days’ before TV and video games: hula hoop, maring-maring, chatong, Chinese garter, taguanay (hide and seek) and bato-lata. Playtime has evolved.

 

44.  Change something about your hair or make-up. Ask Tracy Torres Remolador, Jojo and Bebei Tagoctoc, Charlow Arbasto, Rolly Ingking and Ryan Sines. For the latest summer collections, see EJ Relampagos, Henry Baron. Omie Auza and Maximiel.

 

45.  Make sure you have these tropical fruits abundant this summer: lomboy (black/java plum), avocado, watermelon, sineguelas (Spanish plum), kaimito (star apple) and bayabas (guava).  They are not only delicious but also good for the health!

 

46.  Take your dog/pet for a walk. While walking, take pictures of trees, flowers, people, etc. Turn it into a photo collage.

 

47.  Watch the sunrise and sunset. When the sun rises, it's like a new hope is born inside!  It represents renewal, rebirth. Some people prefer the sunset because it is worth getting up early to watch the sun wake up, the promise of a new day. 

 

48.  Get your community’s events list for the summer and attend an event.

 

49.  It’s more fun in Bohol in the whole month of May! Attend town fiestas and eat humba, inasal and hamunada! 

 

50.  Continue reading The Bohol Chronicle for  timely, relevant and unadulterated news, good variety of content, balanced and objective reporting and a responsible brand of journalism.

 

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

Shamcey Supsup: It’s more fun in Bohol!

As I said, I liked the way Miss Universe 2011 third runner-up Shamcey Gurrea Supsup delivered her message during the 142nd commencement exercises of the University of Bohol. She said it with so much fervor that nobody could say she didn’t say it from the heart.

 

The hills are alive… with Shamcey Supsup at the top of the highest hill in Carmen. Photo Courtesy: Elcid Tirol

Having the Miss Universe beauty and board topnotcher as speaker was a history in the making. It was Shamcey’s first time to speak in a graduation ceremony. Everyone who attended the event was inspired. And a big thanks to UB Registrar Leah Tirol-Magno, the graduation chair, for making it happened.

 

Before that Shamcey did a “whirlwind” countryside tour. Wearing a sundress, Shamcey flashed her winning smile to her Boholano fans, who either shrieked in admiration or were too dumbfounded to say anything. She’s really beautiful. She’s mobbed by fans wherever she went.

 

“It’s my second time here in Bohol. Matagal ko nang gustong pumunta. I didn’t have the time. Yung first time ko dito sa Bohol, hindi ako nakapagtour, so ngayon ko lang nakita ang Bohol. Mas maganda dito,” Shamcey told Bared.

 

Shamcey visited Loboc River, the river of joy. She was welcomed by Tessie Labunog-Sumampong of Loboc Riverwatch.  “This is better than river cruising in Bangkok, Thailand,” she quipped.

 

At the world famous Chocolate Hills in Carmen, Shamcey climbed the 214 concrete steps to reach the highest hill. She said that viewing the chocolate hills is a never-ending amazement. The guides (composed of Angeli Uy of Lab Tours and Travels, Melanie Tirol, Desiree Roxas, Liza Macalandag, Elcid Tirol, Charlito Andam and Gyn Mark Cajote) and Bb. Pilipinas Charities, Inc. coordinator Ms. Liliana Soriano joined her watching the grandeur of the thousand hills—so beautifully formed in the central part of Bohol.

 

And a visit to the tarsier sanctuary in Corella town allowed Shamcey to see the natural habitat of the tarsier with ‘tarsierman’ Lito Pizarras as guide.

Miss Universe 2011 third runner-up Shamcey Supsup at the Loboc river, the river of joy.  Photo Courtesy: Elcid Tirol

 

 “Sana mapreserve ang natural beauty ng Bohol. Once na nasira yun mahirap na ibalik. It’s more fun in Bohol,” Shamcey said.  

 

Anyway, to give everyone a chance to reminisce Shamcey’s graduation message (not only for UB graduates but for all the graduates there), here’s a copy of her message. Read on.

 

Good afternoon to all of you. First of all, thank you for inviting me to grace this most meaningful occasion.

 

Many people have asked me if I have change since April 10 when I won the Binibining Pilipinas that eventually brought me to the road to Sau Paulo  Brazil for the Miss Universe Pageant. Yes and no. I have changed in ways that amaze even myself. From someone who didn’t know the first thing about wearing high heels, putting on makeup or fixing my hair, I transformed into someone who could enhance whatever  God-given countenance I was given. From a person who was very shy, I learned how to speak to large audiences and flash my brightest  smile. And from  someone who was always within the comfort  zone of family  and friends, I learned how to interact with people from all walks of life.

 

Yes, I have change. But then again, I haven’t.

 

Last year, I was veritable probinsiyana. I grew up in my parents’ farm in GenSan. I rode “carabaos” and ran around the farm. There is simplicity and tranquility in my GenSan life that I miss. It is simplicity that makes up my core. In truth, even if a lot of me have changed, I am still very much a probinsyana at heart.     

 

Today, there are 725 of you who are probinsyanos and probinsyanas at heart who will graduate. Your parents have toiled hard to get you where you are. Some of you will venture to go out to the city, even out to the world. Some of you will opt to stay in Bohol. But all of you will pursue your dreams.

 

In pursuing your dreams, I urge to continue being a probinsyano. Dream big, but live simply. Learn to recognize the real and important from the mere trappings of glory. In my reign as Ms. Universe Philippines, I got caught in the whirlwind of several social and high profile activities. While I recognize the significance of each activity, somehow, it was in the low profile and simple activities where I found real joy.

 

Don’t get me wrong. Being simple does not mean being second best. It simply means discerning and being focused on the things that matter most. In your own simple ways, aim to be first, the best .The founders of your esteemed university did just that. Your school was the first university in the province. It is the home of several alumni whose names are synonymous with excellence. When I decided to give in to my mother’s wish for me to become a beauty queen, I took everything to heart. I took everything

seriously. I studied the moves, perfected my walk, and honed myself so I could bring honor to my country. At first, it was just an obedient daughter following her mom’s wishes .But as the competition progressed, I knew that I should push myself to be the best I could. Eventually, it boiled down to how I could be the best for my country.

 

From simple goals and the pursuit of excellence, I implore you young graduates to conquer the whole new worlds that lay on your feet not only with youthful fervor, but also with integrity. It is not enough that you reach your dreams. It is not enough that you be the best. It is most important if you do everything with dignity and respect. Never compromise your values and ideals. Never give up the beliefs that make you who you are in exchange for favors and rewards that are just material and transitory. This is exactly what was in my mind, when in a heartbeat ,I answered the question posed to  me during  the Miss  Universe pageant .Some say that I should  have stretched my answer to make it sound  more diplomatic. Some say that I should have asked for an interpreter. For me, however, the answer was so clear that I did not need a translator to say what was in my heart. There simply was no gray area in need of “stretching”. These are the values that were ingrained in me by my parents that are not negotiable at all.

 

Finally, I enjoin you to pay it forward. A lot of you will reach great heights in their endeavors. But always look back and pay it forward. There is a reason why you have been showered this blessing of education. Find a way for these blessings to multiply a hundred fold by giving back –to your family, to school, to province, to your country, and most of all to God. Paying it forward is the best way to show your gratitude. It is gratitude that manifests and multiplies itself in generosity.

 

Be simple. Be excellent. Be honest. Be generous in your gratitude. Be all these and you will be the best graduates of University of Bohol.

 

Thank you very much and congratulations to all.

 

***

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

Their favorite pick-up lines for Valentine’s

Wake-uppers:

Seen: Tessie Labunog-Sumampong (of Loboc Riverwatch) and her family are spotted in the US. “They are having a great time here in California. Next week, they will visit New York,” says the US-based VRS. “The other day, Tessie and hubby Libby, Hazel Marie Labunog, Miguel and Melecia Labunog visited the Napa Valley, home of the finest wines in the world,” adds VRS. A website says on Napa Valley, “Breathtaking views abound at every turn – mustard in the late winter, picturesque rolling hills planted with vineyards year-round and wineries of every stature dot the landscape.”

Mira

Scene: Condolence to the family of Mrs. Asuncion “Asun” Mira, trustee and treasurer of the University of Bohol (UB). Maam Asun passed away on Feb. 9. “You will surely be missed Maam Asun. You have helped a lot of people and touched a lot of hearts and lives. You are certainly loved by many. That place will never be the same again. Your kindness, generosity, sweet words, listening and caring heart, compassion and many more good things about you, will always be remembered and kept in our hearts. You’re ever so understanding and considerate to others' needs. God will surely reward you for all these. We love you Maam Asun!” says Leah Tirol-Magno, UB Registrar, on Facebook.

Scene: A magnitude 6.9 quake rocked the provinces of Negros Oriental and Cebu that left a number of residents dead and many others missing. The strong earthquake was also felt in Bohol on Feb. 6, 2012. Memorable earthquakes that hit Bohol: May 27, 1996 (5.6 magnitude) and January 8, 2009 (6.8 magnitude). The earthquake on February 8, 1990 (magnitude 6.8 at 3:15 pm) was the worst- six people died, 200 were injured and 7,000 were homeless. Phivocs reports that “Six fatalities were reported and more than 200 were injured in the event. About 46,000 people were displaced by the event and at least 7,000 among them were rendered homeless. Estimated damage to properties is amounting to 154 million pesos.”

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Couple Tessie and Libby Sumampong of the famous Loboc Riverwatch are in the US for a vacation. Photos show Tessie and Libby at San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge…and with their family at the Napa Valley wine country.

Let’s start this Valentine’s Day with a little story (told to me by my nephew YakYak who read it on Facebook):

“A Letter from Mom and Dad”

My child,

When I get old, I hope you understand and have patience with me. In case I break the plate, or spill soup on the table because I’m losing my eyesight, I hope you don’t yell at me. Older people are sensitive, always having self pity when you yell. When my hearing gets worse and I can’t hear what you’re saying, I hope you don’t call me ‘Deaf!’ Please repeat what you said or write it down. I’m sorry, my child. I’m getting older.

When my knees get weaker, I hope you have the patience to help me get up. Like how I used to help you while you were little, learning how to walk.

Please bear with me, when I keep repeating myself like a broken record, I hope you just keep listening to me.

Please don’t make fun of me, or get sick of listening to me. Do you remember when you were little and you wanted a balloon? You repeated yourself over and over until you get what you wanted.

Please also pardon my smell. I smell like an old person. Please don’t force me to shower. My body is weak. Old people get sick easily when they’re cold. I hope I don’t gross you out.

Do you remember when you were little? I used to chase you around because you didn’t want to shower.

I hope you can be patient with me when I’m always cranky. It’s all part of getting old. You’ll understand when you’re older.

And if you have spare time, I hope we can talk even for a few minutes. I’m always all by myself all the time, and have no one to talk to. I know you’re busy with work.

Even if you’re not interested in my stories, please have time for me. Do you remember when you were little? I used to listen to your stories about your teddy bear. When the time comes, 'n I get ill 'n bedridden, I hope you have the patience to take care of me. I’m sorry if I accidentally wet the bed or make a mess.

I hope you have the patience to take care of me during the last few moments of my life. I’m not going to last much longer, anyway. When the time of my death comes, I hope you hold my hand and give me strength to face death.

And don’t worry… When I finally meet our Creator, I will whisper in His ear to bless you. Because you loved your Mom and Dad. Thank you so much for your care. We love you!

And here’s another love story:

The tale of a 70-year-old Chinese man who hand-carved over 6,000 stairs up a mountain for his 80-year-old wife has moved millions of people in 2006. The man passed away in the cave, which has been the couple's home for the last 50 years.

The story began half a century ago when 20-year-old Liu Guojiang fell in love with widowed mother Xu Chaoqing. In a twist worthy of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, friends and relatives criticized the relationship because of the age difference and the fact that Xu already had children. Desperate to escape market gossip and the scorn of their communities, the pair eloped to live in a cave in Jiangjin County in southwest China's Chongqing municipality.

At the beginning, life was harsh and Xu felt that she had tied Liu down and repeatedly asked him, "Are you regretful?"

Liu always replied, "As long as we are industrious, life will improve."

Liu and his wife were not present at the award ceremony due to their age, but their son, Liu Mingsheng, came with a kerosene lamp that his father had made from an ink bottle.

"My parents have lived in seclusion for more than 50 years because of their love for each other. They had no electricity and my father made kerosene lamps to lighten our lives," he said.

"My mother seldom goes down the mountain, but my father cut the 6,000-plus stairs for her convenience," Liu said. "It's a ladder of love."

Touching, isn’t it?

I’m sure you have your own “Valentine” stories. I have my own.

When I was in elementary, our grade four teacher Mrs. Magdalena S. Cespon taught us Valentine’s songs during break. I don’t know if how many of you have heard these songs and I wonder if my classmates in grade school (at Booy South Elem. School) can still remember or sing these songs:

"Mother's Valentine's Song"

Dearest child believe me you are truly my friend;

So today with gladness to you will I spend,

just a kind of friendship from this heart of mine that will tell you in words you are my Valentine.

This well it says, mother's heart is true and never will change the love she gives you.

Ako’y nagtanim ng laguerta sa puso,

Puso ang tinamnan puso ang tumubo
Puso ang namunga ibinunga’y puso
Puso ang kumitil kinitil ay puso.
Nguni’t ang puso ng magulang
Ang s’yang tunay na pagmamahal.

***

Love is a many-splendored thing!

Love will find a way.

Love conquers all.

Love makes the world go round.

Love isn't finding a perfect person. It's seeing an imperfect person perfectly.

Love is patient and kind.

Love can move mountains.

Di porket lumindol, end of the world na kaagad? Di ba pwedeng kinikilig lang ang mundo dahil malapit na ang Valentine's Day?

Want to hear some of the pick-up lines?

Trisha Chatto: Bakit kasi ang likut-likot mo? Iyan tuloy, natabig mo na nga puso ko, nahulog pa sa ‘yo.

Mayor Bertsal Salinas: Saging ka ba? Kasi para kong nadarama ang puso mo.

Leah Tirol-Magno: You are making me think. I may give you more than one. First: Ballpen ka ba? Kasi, di ko na matuloy maisulat ang estorya ng buhay ko kapag wala ka. Second: Asin ka ba? Kasi, walang lasa ang buhay ko pag wala ka!

Benjie Oliva: Boy: Bilangguan ka ba? Girl: Bakit? Boy: Kasi gusto kong ikulong mo ang puso ko sa iyo habang buhay!

Atty. Greg Delgado: “Sana keyboard nalang tayo para magkatabi ang U and I” and “Chief Justice ka ba? Hindi ko kasi maimpeach-impeach sa puso ko.”

Dodong Almedilla: I have none of my own, diha koy nadunggan: Lalaki: Menteryo ka ba? Babae: Bakit? Lalaki: Kasi patay na patay ako sa iyo.

Ryan Sines: Postiso ka va? Bakit? Coz I can’t smile without you.

Aida Tanghal: Ako ang cancer mo ug muabot sa imong life, din a mawagtang.

Fatima Mapesos: Musika ka ba? Dahil kulang ang araw ko pag di kita mahagilap at marinig tulad ng isang musika.

Emerson Pinos: Crayon ka ba? Kulayan mo nga ang buhay ko!

Marianne Chatto: Heart valve ka ba? Bakit? Laman ka ng puso ko!” and “Handa akong takbuhin ang mundo mo basta ang finish line sa puso mo.”

Karen Batuhinay: Pag-ibig Fund ka ba? Mo-loan unta kog lovelife nimo.

JunJun Karaan: Nurse ka ba? Bakit? Eh, kasi parang gusto kong mag-hire ng private nurse para magcare ng puso ko.

Tracy Torres: Hindi ko akalain pati ako natamaan sa economic crisis dahil pati ako nagmahal na rin. Coke ka ba? Everyday kasi ako happy.

Raul Gatal: Keyboard ka ba? Kasi type na type kita.

Joven Menorias: Kuto ka ba? Mag-hapon ka kasi nasa ulo ko.

Sam Pingkian: Ampalaya ka ba? Kasi kahit anong pait ang nararanasan ko sa iyo ikaw pa rin ang sustansya ng buhay ko.

Reigh Monreal: Lubi ka? Ganahan man gud kang pakudkod. Kudkod as in kugos or sapnay sa bukton.

Jea Dano: Asa ka? Dalha nalang ni akong heart beh.. hago kayo sige pangita nimo.

Bon Ryan Bongato:  It’s not the earthquake that shook me- it’s you who rocks my world.

Ariel Fullido: Ikaw ang susi ng puso ko! Bisan og matay-an na walay duplicate ikapuli kanimo.

Morres Sarabia: Relo ka ba? Bakit? Anong oras na? Boom!

Dorris Dinorog-Obena: Susi ka ba? Bakit? Nabuksan mo kasi ang nakalock kong pag-ibig.

Ariel Llanos: Sana exam ka! Bakit? Kasi para nasa isipan kita palagi.

Glenn Blasquez: I.D. ka ba? Bakit? Kasi kung sakaling mawala ka, alam nilang akin ka.

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