Miss Bohol titleholders win this year's elections

By Leo Udtohan

Mutya sa Bohol 1986 and Engr. Gemma 

Manding-Inting

 is the only woman elected in the 

Tagbilaran City Council. 

Contributed photo 

So you think that only businessmen heed the Pied Piper call to the political arena? Think again.

Beauty queens are, too.

Two of them are former Misses Bohol-- Maria Vanessa Cadorna-Aumentado and Gemma Manding-Inting who won this year's elections. 

The face of politics in Bohol province isn't only changing, it's getting beautified as Cadorna-Aumentado was elected as first  congresswoman of the second district of Bohol. 

Miss Bohol 2001 Maria Vanessa Cadorna-Aumentado is the first woman representative of the second district of Bohol. Contributed photo

As a registered nurse and Miss Bohol 2001, Aumentado said she will focus on health, tourism, youth and agriculture.

“I feel the pressure because I am a neophyte. But I am confident I can bring the services to the second district of Bohol,” she said.  “I will serve the people with competence, commitment, passion and dedication.”

Bohol’s second district has 14 LGUs with 346 barangays.

Engr. Gemma Manding-Inting was also elected as Tagbilaran Councilor. She will be the lone woman in the city council. 

Her advocacy is autism awareness and services for special children.

Manding-Inting, one of the Tagbilaran's Five Prettiest in 1985, was crowned Mutya sa  Bohol in 1986. 

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These "50 life lessons" from Regina Brett, a New York Times best-selling author and a Pulitzer Prize finalist, are fun to read. They’re insightful and full of personality. 

The universal lessons are relatable to anyone who needs a little reminder of what’s important in life. Soak in and reflect on. 

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

Maria Vanessa Cadorna-Aumentado with her husband Bohol governor-elect Erico Aristotle Aumentado at the provincial Capitol. Photo: Van-van Aumentado Facebook 

 

 

 

3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

4. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Life is too short for long pity parties. Get busy living, or get busy dying.

17. You can get through anything if you stay put in today.

18. A writer writes. If you want to be a writer, write.

19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Overprepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive everyone everything.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

36. Growing old beats the alternative - dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood. Make it memorable.

38. Read the Psalms. They cover every human emotion.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.

41. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

42. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

43. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

44. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

45. The best is yet to come.

46. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

47. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

48. If you don't ask, you don't get.

49. Yield.

50. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

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Queenie Melody Fullante says ‘God made all things beautiful’

Miss Bohol Queenie Melody Fullante (right) with Miss Bohol 2017 

Pauline Amelinckx and OJ Cimfranca hosting the Miss Bohol 2019. 

Contributed Photo

“To be Miss Bohol is such a life changing experience but to host the pageant is a whole new level of kilig!  I am sincerely thankful to the Miss Bohol organizers for their trust and confidence in me,” said Queenie Melody Fullante on Facebook.

Melody, who was crowned Miss Bohol 2014, posted photos of her along with her co-hosts-  OJ Cimafranca and Miss Bohol 2017 Pauline Amelinckx-during the Miss Bohol 2019 held last July 20.

Quoting from the Bible, Queenie said, “God has made everything beautiful in its time. -Ecclesiastes 3:11.”

She said the pageant brought a lot of sweet memories.

“Being able to stand on the same stage with the candidates made me appreciate our ladies more, they have aced each round with confidence, class and eloquence - very quintessentials indeed,” said Queenie.

On her Facebook account, Pauline Amelinckx said the pageant brought back a lot of fond memories, being on such a familiar stage.

Pauline, who was crowned Miss Bohol 2017, said the pageant helped her to grow and bloom.

“The journey toward the pageant back in 2017 and all that has happened after because of it has really helped me grow and bloom. The people I was able to meet and the people I got closer to are now irreplaceable and I am thankful for having them in my life now,”   said who was crowned Miss Global Beauty Queen Philippines 2018. 

 She said pageantry is not superficial.

“It’s not. With the right attitude, you can allow any experience to mold you into a better you, if only you are open to self-improvement and personal development,” she said.

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Sandugo Queen and Miss Bohol candidates shine in media presentation

The beauty queens talk about their beauty essentials and the causes they believe in

After an extensive screenings, the organizers of the first Sandugo Queen, finally revealed its 17 official candidates last Friday, June 28.

The Miss Bohol 2019 candidates. Photo: Leo Udtohan 

The 17 candidates shared a piece of their mind and showed off their striking personalities to the members of the media.

Sandugo Queen is the first provincewide pageant for gay and transsexual members of the LGBTQAI+ community, a society of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, asexual, aromantic, agender, and intersex individuals, with a “+” for those who are in the process of self discovery, or have more complex identities.

According to Khim Ryan Laway Magtagad, Sandugo Queen 2019 pageant chairman, the pageant aims to empower LGBTQAI+  by giving them a platform to express their thoughts and views on inclusion, diversity and equality. It is also a celebration of their unique beauty, wit and talent. 

Sandugo Queen candidates. 

“The pageant is making a big difference and impact of the LGBTQIA+ in the community,” said Magtagad of the LGBT-Tagbilaran community.

She added that the candidates have their own advocacies and the pageant "will be a platform that when they will become part of Sandugo Queen they have the title to touch the lives of other people."

The Sandugo Queen 2019 will crown winners for Sandugo Queen, Sandugo Queen Tourism, Sandugo Queen Youth Ambassadress, Sandugo Queen 1st Princess and Sandugo Queen 2nd Princess.

The swimwear competition is on July 6, at 1 p.m. at the BQ Mall, while the talent competition is on July 17, 1 p.m. at the Island City Mall.

The grand coronation is on July 26, 8 p.m. at the Bohol Cultural Center.

Meanwhile, in their jumpsuit created by Bilar-based couturier Aileen Sendrijas-Pasagad, the 14 candidates Miss Bohol 2019 strutted in front of media, during Friday’s press presentation held at the Ceremonial Hall of the New Provincial Capitol. 

Miss Tagbilaran 1987 Fiel Angeli Araoarao-Gabin
with Mutya ng Pilipinas -Global Beauty Queen 2018
  and Miss Bohol 2017 Pauline  Amelinckx
during the Miss Bohol press presentation on Friday, June 28, 2019.  
Photo by Leo Udtohan

Iza Gail Latonio. 20, representing Atharra Primeland; Mary Tabada, 19, representing Talibon; Catherine Tabaniag, 20, representing Panglao; and Celina Villoceno, 22, representing Tagbilaran City, wowed the press and visitors. Notably, all the ladies answered the gruelling questions from the press.  

Despite their busy schedule, Mutya ng Pilipinas -Global Beauty Queen 2018  and Miss Bohol 2017 Pauline  Amelinckx  and  Miss Bohol 2018 Raclare Stephan Trigo were able to attend the event. They managed to project a positive aura.

On July 12, the ladies will showcase their talent.

The Miss Bohol Grand Coronation Night is happening on July 20, 7 p.m.  at the Bohol Wisdom Gym.

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Will Gazini Christiana Ganados bring the next Miss U crown?

Remember Gazini Christiana Jordi Ganados? She was crowned Mutya ng Central Visayas Regional PRISAA 2017 in February 2017 and then became Miss Bohol 2017 first runner-up (representing Loon) in July 2017.

Boholana beauty Gazini Christiana
Jordi Ganados aspires for Binibining Pilipinas 2019 crown.  Miss Bohol Photo

Now, she is an official candidate (representing Cebu) in the 56th edition of the Binibining Pilipinas pageant slated for June 9, 2019 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

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TAG ’89 MeetUp! 2019

For the first time in the history of Tagbilaran City, or even in Bohol Province, the graduates of a particular class, from eight (8) high schools in the city, will jointly celebrate their 30^th (Pearl) grand homecoming celebrations.

From July 1 to 7, 2019, the classes of 1989 from Bohol National High School (BNHS), Bohol Institute of Technology (BIT), Bohol School of Arts and Trades (BSAT), Divine Word College of Tagbilaran (DWC-T), Holy Spirit School (HSS), Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary (IHMS), Manga High School (MHS), and the University of Bohol (UB) will come together for the “TAG ’89 MeetUp! 2019” activities.

This is an ambitious project that entails the full support for the preparations from the coordinators of the eight (8) schools for the event to be successful, considering that many balikbayans from different parts of the world will come home just to participate in this milestone.

The group will introduce the first Tagbilaran’s Bridges-Friendship 5K Walk on July 1, 2019 starting at 4:30 a.m from the Friendship Park in Bool, Tagbilaran City, to Mansasa, then to Dauis Bridge, to Dauis Church, and back to Friendship Park and the 10K Run starting at 4:30 a.m. from the Friendship Park in Bool, Tagbilaran City, to Tagbilaran’s Rizal Park, to Dauis Church via the Causeway Bridge, and back to Friendship Park via Mansasa and Dauis Bridge that will be part of the 53rd Tagbilaran City Charter Day Anniversary activities.

Mannie Rey Amoguis of BNHS Class of 1989 is the overall chair.

On July 6, 2019, Hale will perform in the concert for a cause to be staged at the CPG Sports Complex.

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Gabin is new Audio-Bohol prexy

City Government of Tagbilaran’s Fiel Angeli E. Araoarao-Gabin led the new set of officers of the Association of United Development Information Officers (Audio) – Bohol as its president for 2019-2020 who took their oath of office recently before Tagbilaran City Mayor John Geesnell Yap II, inducting officer.

Fiel Angeli Araoarao – Gabin is Audio’s new president.  

Other officers are Liezl Del Rosario (Civil Service Commission), vice-president for national government agencies (NGAs); Nicolas Sendrijas (Local Government Unit of Calape), vice-president for LGUs; Marichu Cua (Technical Education and Skills Development Authority), secretary; Elvira Bongosia (Philippine Information Agency or PIA), assistant secretary; Rosario Chatto (Bureau of Internal Revenue), treasurer; Jojeline Ruiz (LGU Trinidad), assistant treasurer; Gualberto Jaspe (LGU Pilar), auditor; Bruce Zabala (Bohol District Jail), first district Press Relations Officer (PRO); Mirasol Intong (LGU Buenavista), second district PRO; and Maria Cristina Jumao-as (LGU Jagna), third district PRO. 

The organization is under the guidance of the PIA-Bohol headed by Information Center Manager Rey Anthony Chiu.

Gabin started as Audio-Bohol secretary in 1999, then served as Audio-Bohol president from March 2003 to August 2005 and became president of the Regional Association of Development Information Officers (Radio)-7 composed of IOs from Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor from February 2004 to August 2005.

In September 2018, she was Radio-7 convention director in the regional gathering held at Dumaluan Beach Resort in Bolod, Panglao. She was also president of the DML Montessori School, Tagbilaran City Science High School, and Bohol Child Head Start Federated Parents – Teachers Associations (FPTA).

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Bohol hosts 9th PABO biennial

annual convention

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Romeo S. Momo who rose to the ranks in his 43 years of service in the department, inspired the delegates as guest of honor of the 9th biennial annual convention of the Philippine Association of Building Officials (PABO) held in a resort last week.

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Romeo Momo (seated, 4th from left) was the guest of honor during the 9th biennial annual convention of the Philippine Association of Building Officials (PABO) held in this city. Contributed Photo

He underscored the crucial role of the building officials in the implementation of infrastructures that change the developmental landscape of the country while zooming in on the real essence of public service.

According to Engr. Alan Cahiles of Lila, the national convention director, from the 800 who originally made prior confirmation, the total number of registrants reached as high as 1,200 even during the opening ceremonies who were composed of the city and municipal engineers in the Philippines headed by Engr. Ma. Virginia Rosario, city engineer of Dagupan City, Pangasinan.

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Karen Gallman to come home on Feb. 28

If plans push through, our very first Miss Intercontinental 2018 Karen Gallman will be coming home on Feb. 28.

The event organizers have not yet provided her detailed schedule, according to VRS, a beauty pageant fanatic.  

Miss Intercontinental 2018 Karen Gallman will be
coming home on Feb. 28. Photo courtesy: Karen Gallman IG

She is set to arrive in Bohol province on Feb. 28 (Thursday) at 9 a.m., followed with a brief press conference in the airport.

Feb. 28 will be a very busy day for the beauty queen as she is expected to pay a courtesy call to Tagbilaran City Mayor Baba Yap at the city hall. She will also pay a courtesy call to Bohol Gov. Edgar Chatto at the Mansion before rounding out the day with her homecoming parade.

Her grand homecoming parade will take the route from the Mansion to the city plaza. The parade will start at 1 p.m.

After Tagbilaran City, Karen will proceed to Ubay town where a lot of people are expected to see Miss Intercontinental better than at the parade.  In Ubay, Karen will meet the town officials lead by Mayor Constantino Reyes and members of the Rotary Club of Ubay.

“We are praying it will push through,” said VRS, who also relayed the info that Ubay tourism officer Antonette Acedo  and former Miss Bohol Vanessa Cadorna-Aumentado are busy preparing for Karen’s homecoming.

Serendipitous moment for Miss Bohol 2017

Wake-uppers:

Scene: A male title holder (MTH) created a stir when he posted on Facebook that he was “raped.”  MTH went to a spa that when he was half-asleep the masseur took advantage of the situation. MTH woke up when he discovered the masseur already sucking his nipple and stroking his ting-a ling. The male masseur, who was brought to barangay hall for interrogation, admitted he was smitten by MTH’s manliness and beauty that he almost raped him. “Lesson? Huwag pagnasaan ang inyong client,” said MTH’s friends. The plot is thickening.

Miss Bohol 2017 Pauline Amelinckx 

Courtesy: Miss Bohol/Gerald James Cabal

Scene: Could it be true that a sexy model cum young businesswoman had a “nightcap” at a hotel with a popular  businessman from Manila who was here for a visit not too long ago? “What a sweet pair,” said VRS. “You see,  she’s perfect for him, but he is already taken. Ouch!”

Scene: Prof. Marianito Luspo on the 2nd Bangga sa Kuradang ug Subli sa Sandugo:  “Well, it’s unique and special because it really comes from our culture.  It is an attempt  to make the festival more relevant by basing the whole concept on the nature of the culture of the place. I am not saying kuradang is only done in Bohol, it’s a Visayan thing but our way and our way we infused in our important historic event in Bohol made into something special. It is to reflect something we have and which we can rightly we proud of.”

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Pauline Amelinckx overwhelmed the competition during the recently-concluded Miss Bohol pageant.

Pauline, a graduate of Bachelor of Arts in International Studies major in European Studies at the Cebu Doctor’s University, impressed the judges and the audience.

She said joining the pageant was one of the “toughest decisions” of her life.

She was not totally expecting to be called winner of Miss Bohol 2017, however, it was her destiny to become Miss Bohol.

“It was an amazing night filled with emotions but also with friendship. The Miss Bohol journey was an amazing experience and I am glad to have experienced it with amazing co candidates who became my friends. I will surely miss all the time we spent together but I am looking forward to the next time we meet, the next time we eat, and the time that we look back on this day with a smile,” she posted on Facebook.

Miss Bohol 2016 Glyssa Perez was 

one of the ladies present at the final 

screening of Miss World Philippines. 

Courtesy: Glyssa Perez Facebook

“Thank you to all the people who have helped and supported me, thank you for the bonds of friendship we were able to strengthen together and thank you for sharing this amazing experience with me. It will become a memory dear to my heart because of you all,” she added.

Tubigon continues to dominate the provincial pageant scene, winning yet another crown. Miss Bohol winners from Tubigon were Amir Paraguya Sol (2010) and Farrah Faye Mian (2011).

Unlike in Tagbilaran City which holds barangay level search for Miss Tagbilaran in advance to find the finest girl, Tubigon and other towns have discovered beauty queens effortlessly and learned how serendipitous things can be.

“I guess it's serendipity, it's not something you plan,” said a pageant watcher.

With so many Miss Bohol winners avidly angling for attention in public, some really have to bustle and hustle to stay in the public eye.

Kudos to these beauty queens who have managed to stand out by way of their successful and effective career moves and gambits:

Queenie Melody Fullante has made her fans ecstatic by finally doing something to serve the community as head of Dauis Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.

Miss Bohol 2014 Queenie Melody Fullante

Courtesy: Queenie Fullante

After Miss Bohol, she got involved with advocacy efforts in the JCI Chocolate Hills after she was chosen as Miss JCI Philippines.

For her part, Miss Bohol 2016 Glyssa Perez was already attracting a lot of attention — especially from motorists and commuters — with her beautiful face from huge billboards in the city and selected towns, endorsing RC Lucky Graphics.

In addition, Glyssa  is working at Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) under Sec. Martin Andanar assigned at the ASEAN affairs.

She is currently training for the Miss World Philippines on Sept. 3. Glyssa, Miss Philippines-Australia 2014, will step out of the shadow of her famous cousin Miss Universe -Philippines 2016 Maxine Medina. She will carve her own name in the national pageant. Her cup runneth over!

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Students fleeing Marawi seek help to study in Bohol

Wake-uppers:

Seen:  A quick look at the Miss Bohol 2017 official candidates line-up shows some of the early favorites already catching the attention of pageant fans from here and abroad.  The early favorites (not reflective of the final outcome) are Miss Loon, Miss Tubigon, Miss Jagna, Miss Trinidad and Miss Talibon.

Miss Bohol 2017 early favorite: Miss Loon  

Courtesy: Gerald James Cabal

Scene:  Friends of the female student (who is a daughter of a prominent family) who is at the center of a sex video scandal appealed not to share the video to spare the students from further trauma. “We all make mistakes but stop sharing the video,” said a friend who asked not to be named. A city official (who asked for anonymity) urged the public to stop circulating the sex video to put an end to the issue. However, the scandal is widely discussed in schools and social media channels and went viral. Remember, the parties who uploaded the video without permission as well as anyone who “shares, reproduce, or sells” the sex video without the consent of female student and her boyfriend can be held liable of violating Republic Act 9995 or the Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009.

Scene: Board Member Niño Rey Boniel is back in Bohol province on Saturday —albeit in jail.  Niño, the primary suspect in the slay of his wife, Mayor Gisela Boniel of Bien Unido town, was ordered by a judge to stay at the Talibon District Jail while the charges of kidnapping and serious illegal detention filed against him were resolved by the court.

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Aslimah Matua, 19, dreams of becoming a teacher.

But the incoming junior student of Mindanao State University (MSU) in Marawi City may have to pursue her dreams in Tagbilaran City, after she and her family fled the gunbattle between government troops and terrorists holed out in a section of her home city of Marawi in Lanao del Sur province.

Aslimah spent weeks with her parents and 13 siblings in an evacuation site in Iligan City before they joined 12 other families in evacuating to this Bohol provincial capital.

When the latest batch of evacuees arrived here on Monday, six families sought refuge inside a mosque in Barangay Poblacion 1 while six others stayed with their relatives in Barangay Taloto.

Arlene Karaan, Poblacion 1 village chief, said among the problems raised by the evacuees was their children’s education.

The Marawi students with Tagbilaran City

 village official Arlene Karaan (right) who helps

 them find a new school in Bohol province.  Leo Udtohan

“So far, only elementary pupils were able to enrol,” Karaan said. “We are trying to facilitate the enrolment of college students who wished to continue their studies.”

Aslimah and three other cousins were hopeful they would be given a chance to study in Bohol.

“I want to go to school. I want to finish college to fulfill my dreams,” Aslimah said, echoing a similar wish expressed by her cousins Nor-fatima Matua, 21, an education student; Aslimah Amer Lomala, 17, a Grade 11 student; and Samia Musa, 17, who is in Grade 7.

Karaan accompanied them to Bohol International College (formerly Bohol Institute of Technology) last Wednesday to inquire about school requirements.

“Gusto ko talaga matuto (I want to learn),” said Matua. “Gusto ko talaga makapagtapos ng pag-aaral dahil may motivation ako sa buhay (I really want to study, and I’m a motivated person).”

Lomala said, “ Siyempre  para naman sa kinabukas namin ,  para sa kinabukusan namin at mga kapatid namin.  Ako kasi ang  ate kaya nasa akin ang susi na makapag-aral sila kasi mahirap din kami. Sana matuloy ang pag-aaral dito sa Bohol (I want to study for our future, for the future of my siblings. As the eldest, I am the key that my siblings can study because we are poor. I hope we can study here in Bohol).”

“ Sana mabigyan kami ng chance na makapag-aral dito sa probinsyang Bohol para kahit papaano na matulungan ang pamilya namin na nangangailangn ng tulong (We hope we will be given  the chance to study here in Bohol so that we can help our family),” said Nor-fatima.

Lomala said her parents and eight siblings left Marawi because of the horror brought about by the conflict.

“Masyadong magulo dun. Kinakailangan naming tumakas kasi baka madamay kami sa gulo. Hindi kasi kumikilala ang mga bomba tsaka yung mga baril baka mamatay kami dun. (It’s chaotic. We had to escape. Bullets and bombs do not distinguish civilians from soldiers and rebels. We might die there),” she said.

The family of her cousin, Nor-fatima, also came here, scared of being caught in the crossfire.

Since, they have nothing left, Matua, Nor-fatima, Lomala and Musa will visit Bohol Vice Governor Dionisio Balite to ask for possible financial assistance or scholarship grant. 

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Tagna-Tagna 2017

Wake-uppers:

Scene: The two “controversial” beauty pageants in Ubay town: Miss Ubay 2017 organized by the Rotary Club of Ubay (Jan. 24) and Matahum sa Ubay 2017 (Jan. 26) organized by the local government unit of Ubay.

Seen: Jim Paredes of Apo Hiking Society during the 17th Ubi Festival.

Scene:  Pres. Donald J. Trump, the 45th president of the United States of America, gave one of the shortest inaugural speeches ever given on Friday with heavy emphasis on nationalism:  “Your voice, your hopes, and your dreams will define our American destiny. Your courage and goodness and love will forever guide us along the way. Together, we will make America strong again. We will make America wealthy again. We will make America proud again. We will make America safe again. Yes, together we will make America great again.”

Scene: Whale sharks (not killer sharks) were spotted off Barangay Malinao in Garcia Hernandez town.  According to Dr. Alessandro Ponzo of Large Marine Vertebrate Project Philippines (Lamave),the whale sharks were feeding in the area. “They just follow the plankton bloom,” he said. The whale sharks are protected by the Philippine law since 1998. “They need to be respected for what they are. Magnificent wild animals. The local government units should ensure that the coastal habitat are healthy and clean from plastic, one of the big threats for marine wildlife,” said Doc Ale.

Scene: The Miss Universe 2016 coronation night is on Monday (January 30), at the Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena at 8 a.m. This is the 3rd time the pageant is happening in the Philippines. The first one was in 1974 when Spain's Amparo Muñoz was crowned while the second happened in 1994 with Sushmita Sen of India winning as Miss Universe. Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach won the title on December 20, (December 21 in Manila) 2015, after more than 4 decades of special awards and podium finishes.

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When the Rooster crows at the start of its year (Jan. 28, 2017, according to the Chinese Calendar), a lot of VRS readers who are diehard believers in the horoscope and feng shui have been asking what’s in store for them in 2017? Will they be pretty? Will they be rich?  Well, it’s hard to tell.

Snake Princess (with Medyo Maldito in this photo)

 is another big personality in 2017. 

Courtesy: Snake Princess Facebook

The Year of the Rooster expresses inner warmth and insight, as well as the quietness of privacy and family ties, according to astrologers and feng shui experts.  

Gold, brown and yellow are lucky colors of 2017, they said.  

This year is often marked by brilliant success for those who have endured with patience the draining and often solitary build-up of a business project. It is also a year of a blend of righteousness and justice, bombast and logistical efficiency. Public and private administration jobs, military careers or police jobs are highly favored.

And as tradition is hard to break, this corner’s “Tagna-Tagna” has a good batting average, with 98 percent credibility! 

(A gentle reminder: Readers are not constrained to take the “predictions” seriously. As I said, these are all tagna-tagna (bunga lang sa panghunahuna) and I could be wrong, you know.)

Now, let’s take a quick look at what the notorious and the famous Boholanos have in store for them for the Year of the Rooster.

• A busy year for Snake Princess and Medyo Maldito. The duo will have a “controversial” revelation.

• Former beauty queen Anna Maris Igpit will start having morning sickness middle of the year and it will make her husband Aussie football player Thomas Taylor very happy.

• Gian Ale will bounce back and spring a big surprise on all of us, proving to all and sundry that he’s not done yet, career-wise. Same for TinTin Ng and Lailette Boiser.

• Miss Bohol 2014 Queenie Melody Fullante will finally find a boyfriend who is romantic, confident, artistic, foreign, free spirit (aka the bad boy), intelligent/witty and considerate!

• Tableya Princess Dalareich Polot will remain loveless. Oopps, someone will come!

• Laywer Joan Jagonos and husband Benjie Oliva will welcome the stork’s visit before the end of the year, also for Abdul Wallace and Chandrina Elluiska Schreurs.

• Actress Rich Asuncion and her beau are planning to seal their love this year despite her busy and hectic showbiz career.

•Lawyer Ingemar Macarine aka Pinoy Aquaman will make a world-breaking record.

• Something “big” is in store for Vivoree.

• Julia Faith Joaquin’s star will shine even brighter and bigger.

• A popular personality will become the new “face” of Touch of April of Dr. April Lumuthang-Froilan as Doc April beautifies the province.

• It will be a busy year for Prof. Marianito Luspo, Joey Labrador, Nestor Pestelos, Direk Maryo delos Reyes and cultural icon Lutgardo Labad.

• A “super-bonggacious” fashion show will feature Boholano fashion artists and couturiers—Shanon Pamaong , Maximiel Tallo, EJ Relampagos, Rhigel Dulfo Jong Magallano, Omie Auza, Henry Baron, Bebie Tagoctoc and Tracy Remolador Torres— to display their artistic collections!  After the show, they will establish a fashion and interior design school.

• Rex Alba will have another challenging role in movies.

• Center Stage Band will finally (finally!!!) release their debut album.

• Miss Bohol 2016 and Miss JCI-Philippines 2016 Glyssa Perez will join a national beauty pageant, the second Boholano to bring home the crown.

•dyRD’s Glee Orcullo and her friend Poybe Ingking will finally release a new album.

• Something “big” is in store for the first Mister Supranational Philippines AR de la Serna.

And now, the blind items:

• A new talent from Bohol will rise to make Boholanos proud.

• Another big scandal will shake the political scene!

• A high ranking official and a young politician will find themselves in a headline-hogging controversy.

•Bohol will produce more topnotchers in the field of education, nursing and engineering.

• A beauty pageant organizer and host will draw controversies.

• A popular radio program will undergo a major revamp.

• A popular young couple might not reconcile despite “intervention” and it will end in a bitter court battle.

• A drug-related scandal will rock the business industry, including local leaders.

• A popular radio personality will quit the first love for many years, leaving the followers (this one included) orphaned. It will be a long story.

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

There’s something about Ferome / Ima Leopardas responds to bashers & haters

He is regarded as one of the top male hosts in the province today, but Ferome Jusgorge Balabag Almine is quick to reveal that his career as an event organizer and host was not without difficulty.

For this Sunday’s edition, however, Ferome put down his microphone for a while and offered a rare glimpse of his life and career.

“It is my passion to talk and inspire others,” said Ferome who started hosting at a very young age. “It is always my drive to put smiles in other people’s lives through my hosting gigs. It is always my passion also to organize and help other people in realizing their dream events.  Hosting for me is a fulfilling job.”

Ferome became an eager student, absorbing all that was there for his to learn from the veterans in the industry.  They were his elementary and high school teachers and some wedding coordinators who influenced his career.  

However, Ferome shared the road to hosting events is not easy. “No and never it will be easy because it is our job to entertain the audience in all walks of life and cultures. I learn to be patient, dedicated and flexible to meet the demands and expectations of my clients.”

Ferome Almine as event organizer and host: ‘It’s my passion and love.’ 

He also said that he needs to bend with the standards of the organizers and the audience.

“The most difficult things in hosting is putting myself to people’s emotions,” he said.

Does he suffer from burn-out? “Sometimes but I don’t entertain burden and burn-out because I enjoy organizing and hosting events.  Again, it is my passion and love.”

Ferome shared that hosting the Sandugo festival street-dancing was his most memorable event in his hosting career. “It was a privileged for me to host a prestigious festival of Bohol. It’s my first time that my voice would be telecast on GMA 7 and over radio coverage to all radio stations in Bohol.”

Just like other hosts, Ferome had his own share of bloopers, booboos, blunders and hilarious moments. And though the incidents were not funny at that time, he can laugh at those experiences now because they somehow helped him become better at his job and in a way, shaped him into who he is now.

 “I loose my big modulated voice and it becomes rustic. I have colds, sore throat and fever prior to the show,” he said.  “I force myself to produce modulated voice. I shout and I make sure that I still do my best despite of my health condition. The show must go on.”

Through the years, many people and clients saw Ferome move up the professional ladder and gain respect in the industry as organizer and host. In fact, he is the resident host of the Alturas Group of Companies and he will be hosting four events ( hosting the Sandugo Dance contest on July 12, Sandugo Festival BodyBuilder 2015 on July 18, Mr and Miss Teen ICM on July 19 and Atty. Carandang’s wedding on July 25 at Panglao Island Nature Resort; and hosting weddings for SilverBlue Wedding and Things, Yowev_Your Weddings and Events Supreme Weddings by Mae Supremo, Mr Jose Suarez Events Team Jazz Duo by Gigi) this Sandugo month. It just goes to show that people respond to Ferome in a positive way.

What do you want to achieve? “I want to be a millionaire before I reach 25! Ha!Ha!Ha!”

And as he celebrates his 13 years as an event host, Ferome shares with VRS readers 13 little-know things about him.

1. I am religious.

2. I’m a kagawad in Mansasa, Tagbilaran City.

3. I became an Outstanding Barangay Official as SK chairman and barangay kagawad.

4. I am a cheerful giver.

5. I am a registered nurse.

6. I am a daydreamer. I’ve dreamed to work outside the country or wish to be a famous TV host.

7. I have seven dogs. They are Choco, Chup2x, Carlo, Carla, Charles, Ally and Great Dane.

8. I’m planning to open this year a shop that could cater all services in the path that I am into (organizing and 

hosting). I plan to put up my own convenience store. Dream lang naman! He!He!He!

9.  I have my best buddies with me.

10. I am with the Alturas Group of Companies as a resident host.  See me at the Island City Mall!

11. I am not allowed to party with friends despite of my age! Ha!Ha!Ha!

12. I am a loner. Gusto kong mapag-isa.

13. I am single but I prioritize my work, my best buddies and my family. By the way I have two mommies! My real mom is Fe Balabag-Almine  and my aunt/Mamy Halida Blanco, who is the wife of our Punong Barangay Manolo P. Blanco who is also my second father.  (Ferome’s father is Inspector Romeo Almine. He has two brothers Ferome Myko and Ferome Carltome.- LPU)

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Ima Leopardas responds to bashers & haters

:

Nothing wrong with repeaters because in most cases, they turn out to be winners, right?

Of the 23 candidates in this year’s Miss Bohol pageant set for July 18, only Miss Bohol 2014 fourth runner-up Imaculada Cleofe Leopardas of Baclayon is the repeater.

“Yes, I have joined Miss Bohol last year, God knows why I am joining again this year. And to whoever is reading this long post right now, I would just like to remind you that (with emphasis! -LPU) YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL. YOU ARE CAPABLE AND POWERFUL. YOU ARE STRONG. I KNOW YOU HAVE BEEN THROUGH THE DEEPEST AND WORST STRUGGLES IN LIFE YET YOU STILL MADE IT AND YOU ALWAYS WILL. NEVER FORGET THAT SOMEONE OUT THERE LOVES YOU AND THAT SOMETIMES IN LIFE, WE ENDED UP BEING IN A SITUATION WE NEVER WANT TO BE IN. BUT EVERYTHING HAPPENS FOR A REASON. NEVER GIVE UP. CHIN UP. THERE'S A DIFFERENCE THAT ONLY YOU CAN MAKE...GO MAKE THAT DIFFERENCE,” Ima, an www.omg.com model, posted on Facebook.

Ima also shared that “we are all in this world for a reason.”

Imaculada Leopardas: ‘I will always be a living example of a true beauty queen.’ 

Courtesy: Chris Ramasola/www.ramasola.net

She added: “If they say, "Beauty Queens come and go" well I say, "People come and go".. And no matter who we are..Rich or Poor, Thin or Fat, Black or White, Happy or Sad, Famous or Not, we will all come back to Him someday. We are alive for a reason. And I believe that I am who I am now for a reason. Sometimes at night, I wonder why people keep on following my posts and honestly, it is very overwhelming. Yes, I used to be "Invisible"..somebody who was always one of the audience but I was a sincere Servant Leader.”

For her bashers and haters: “For as long as I am still breathing, I would always be the Ima I've known for 19 years. I will make my family proud. I will never forget my bestfriends for life ‪#‎GIBS . I will always be a good daughter. Be a living example of a true beauty queen.. And at the same time, I'll always have in my heart those important people in my life who changed me, motivated me and loved me just the way I am.”

Some fans also showed their support for Ima. Others gave their words of encouragement.

“Haters gonna hate and bashers gonna bash but they will be gone,” one fan said.

Popular pageant repeaters are Janine Tugonon (who placed first runner-up in the 2012 Miss Universe pageant) and Diane Necio (who won 2011 Bb. Pilipinas-International) were repeaters. In fact, some winners in the international contests were repeaters, too.

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

Tubigon celebrates beauty and brawn

THREE FOR THE SHOW

Tubigon celebrates beauty and brawn

Wake-uppers:

Scene: Ma. Rhea Rebecca Rocha was crowned as Miss Jagna Festival 2015 during the three-day First Calamay Festival. 

Scene: Cusina ni Tisay has received another (major) award: Best Authentic Bohol Cuisine Restaurant. It was presented by QAsia Seal of Product and Quality Service during the 10th National Product Quality Excellence Awards 2014-2015.

Seen: Another project for Lailette Geulen-Boiser aka Scarlette in showbizlandia is on GMA’s Afternoon Primetime drama Healing Hearts which will premier on May 11. Healing Hearts stars talented teen actors Joyce Ching, Krystal Reye, Ken Chan and Kristoffer Martin. On the hand, the small but terrible TinTin Ng is still on GMA’s Pare ‘Koy (topbilled by Dingdong Dantes) which is directed by Boholano director Maryo Delos Reyes.

Scene: Talented Boholano siblings whose fingerstyle guitaring is to the superlative degree were handpicked by the producers to audition in Manila last week for The Voice Kids PH Season 2. Find out if these siblings follow the footsteps of Lyca, Dare, Juan Karlos and Darlene soon on ABS-CBN.

Scene: The latest survey conducted by Bohol Poll 2015 revealed that poverty in Bohol appeared to be worsened as 67% of Boholanos or almost seven out of ten said they are in a dire poverty based on “self-rated poverty” survey.  The Social Weather Station-trained Bohol Poll said the self-rated poverty this year is higher than 62% in 2014.

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Another set of beauty queens. They come smarter and prettier every year.

Anyag sa Tubigon 2015 candidates.  Tubigon’s finest daughter will be known on May 13.
Courtesy: Anyag sa Tubigon Facebook

“I am proud of this year’s batch,” said James Tripoli, the young executive liaison officer of Tubigon Mayor Marlon Amila, and chairman of the five main events in Tubigon fiesta (Ambongan sa Tubigon, Tanda Street Party, Tanda @25 concert, Sambunot sa Awit and Tanda Zumba Marathon). “They exude not only beauty, brain and confidence, they also have a heart for community service.”

“After the success of last year’s Tanda Street Party, I decided to create another something new for this year’s town fiesta and 25^thTanda sa Tubigon celebration,” said James. “As long as I can with the Amila administration, I will try my best to make our town prosperous, open-minded and city-like.

Barely a week from now, on May 13, one of the 12 hopefuls will be crowned 2015 Anyag sa Tubigon by outgoing Anyag 2014 Jaya Sierras Lozano at the coronation night at the Tubigon Cultural Center.

Ambongan sa Tubigon 2015 candidates.
Courtesy: Lungsod sa Tubigon

Anyag reaffirms the pageant’s commitment in searching for Tubigon’s finest daughter.  

“Anyag unveils a stunning edition as we celebrate the beauty of life at its fullest. Truly a remarkable night we shouldn't miss... May 13, 2015,” the Anyag sa Tubigon page posted on Facebook. “A night of beauty, wit, flair, and glamour,” added

According to beauty pageant watchers, the early favorites (not reflective of the final outcome) are Pauline Amelinckx, Jean Olive Zoilo, Janine Hannafe Valerie Hattori and Micel Damarillos.

“For sure, there will be dark horse who will upstage other contestants. It happen every year,” warned James.

Tubigon has produced winners in Miss Bohol: Amir Sol (2010) and Farrah Mian Abarquez (2011). Mariecris Evardo was first-runner up in Miss Bohol Sandugo 2012.

Meanwhile, 12 hottest and gorgeous men will compete for Ambongan sa Tubigon on May 10. According to James, the organization promotes gentlemanly conduct and character. 

“It’s another first in Tubigon,” revealed James. “I have observed that most of the pageants are for women and transgender. Why not give a chance to the gentlemen to show what they have and what they can? If we give female pageant candidates respect and highlight their importance in the society, we should also respect male pageant candidates as well.”

As the pageant rolls closer to the coronation night, beauty pageant watchers are abuzz with their fearless forecasts. Early favorites (again not reflective of the final outcome) are Jose Rinan Calunia of barangay Ilijan Norte, Marc Ian Alasagas of Barangay Pooc Occidental and Frikko Khan Valdez of barangay Potohan.

Dyosa sa Tubigon celebrates rights, identity and expression of the gay community. Courtesy: LST

And....

14 candidates for Dyosa sa Tubigon will hit the stage on May 6. Dyosa is not your usual beauty contest because all contestants are gays.

For its second year, the pageant aims to bring awareness about homosexual rights. For the contestants, the pageant celebrates their rights, identity and expression.

The most likely bets to win the title (again not reflective of the final outcome) are Barbie, Kristie and Angel.

Yuri, the “mother butanding” and former host of GMA Cebu’s Buena Mano will host the Dyosa event.

Ruel Savello is the over-all choreographer for the three main beauty pageants in Tubigon. Anyag will be directed by Bohol’s celebrated choreographer Dennis Balbero, Ambongan has William Paolo Fortuna as artistic director and Dyosa will be directed by Hypthaly Tirazona.

For tickets and inquiries, please call 0910-336-0367.

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