Bohol’s Biggest Stories of 2012

From Vanity Salinana’s winning to the death of Rep. Erico Aumentado, 2012 was dominated by the many happenings of famous people in Bohol.

Some stories were happy ones; others, not so much. As we observed, 2012 was chock full of drama, major comebacks, career high notes, and some sad stuff too.

But no matter what went down over the last 12 months, we watched and followed our favorite people thru radio, newspapers and the social media as the good, the bad and the OMG took over the headlines.

What were the most memorable moments of 2012?

Bared has relive them all.

HEY SEXY LADY

2012 saw the birth of beauty queens in the province.

Idy Caseñas Cagas was crowned Miss Bohol Sandugo on July 20. Cagas is the fifth Jagnaanon to win the Miss Bohol Sandugo title making Jagna as the only town in Bohol that has the most number of Miss Bohol Sandugo winners. (Sorry, Tubigon!)

Bohol’s Queen of Tourism Rose Soy was the Queen of Santacruzan 2012, Candy Cumayas was the Reyna Elena 2012.

Jade Nica Obedencio was crowned Miss Ubi Festival Queen 2012; Mary Ebone Calimbayan Cimafranca was chosen Miss Teen Tagbilaran 2012 and Karen Morfreux  was crowned Miss Teen Earth 2012 and Miss Silka Bohol 2012.

Mariecris Evardo was crowned Anyag sa Tubigon 2012. She almost won the Miss Bohol Sandugo 2012 crown.  Her townmate, Thea Rose Rizaldo, won the Miss Teen Bohol2012 title.
                                                   
We also witnessed Miss Ubay 2007 Karen Gallman and Miss Tagbilaran 2010 and Miss Bohol Sandugo 2010 1st runner-up Fer Mary Baliquig in the Bb. Pilipinas 2012. Baliquig also tried her luck in 2012 Miss World-Philippines.

Another Boholana Zeneline Ancog Bulalaque joined the Miss Philippines Earth 2012 representing Batuan.

It was also a good year for Vanity Kintanar Salinana who won the Queen of Cebu Universe 2012, the pageant for Alternatives held on November 9. Before winning Queen of Cebu, Vanity won the Carnival Queen of Mandaue 2010 and Bb. Gay Pilipinas Region VII in 2011.  She made history for Bohol after becoming the very first Boholana transgender to be crowned Queen of Cebu.

FAMOUS CELEB VISITS OF 2012

Simon Clive Barbon Greatwich, the midfielder of the Philippine Football Team, visited Bohol. Simon’s mother, Carol, hails from Tagbuane, Alburquerquel.

Richard Gutierrez was spotted in Bohol on Valentine’s Day. Richard was not dating someone but he was with the kids of Guiwanon Elementary School in Baclayon (hometown of actor Cesar Montano) who were the recipients of the Bikes for the World. Richard also visited Pamilacan Island. He also attended the Valentine programs of Laya Elementary School and Baclayon Central Elementary School.

The Queen of Talk Show Kris Aquino visited Bohol for the second time to shoot an episode for Kris TV show on ABS-CBN.

Filipino YouTube sensation Mikey Bustos, the comedic talent behind a series of wacky Filipino "language tutorials" that have gone viral online attracting millions — and counting, was spotted in Bohol to make his funny video of “Bohol and the All-knowing Tarsiers.”

Actor Aga Muhlach was in Bohol to shoot an episode about Bohol for his travel-adventure show Pinoy Explorer on TV5. Days after, matinee idol/TV host Drew Arellano was spotted in Bohol for his weekend adventure on GMANewsTV’s Weekend Getaway. The Bohol visit was the nth time for Drew.

Politicians who visited Bohol in 2012 Pres. Noynoy Aquino, Vice President Jejomar Binay, Sen. Chiz Escudero, Manong Maceda, Rep. Milagros “Mitos” Magsaysay, Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, San Juan Rep. JV Ejercito, former Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) chair Grace Poe -Llamanzares  and Aurora Rep. Edgardo “Sonny” Angara.

Miss Universe 2011 third runner-up Shamcey Supsup got an invitation to become the guest speaker of the University of Bohol.  “Sana mapreserve ang natural beauty ng Bohol. Once na nasira yun mahirap na ibalik. It’s more fun in Bohol,” Shamcey said.

Also spotted in Bohol were Ruffa Gutierrez, Tim Yap, Alice Dixson, Cristalle Belo-Henares, Ryan Bang and Cory Quirino.

MEMORABLE CONCERTS OF 2012

Vice Ganda tickled our funny bones in a Valentine concert on Feb. 11. A Night with Christian Bautista on April 28 also amazed the crowd.

The unique concert event of celebrated folk-rock artist Joey Ayala (with his band Ang Bagong Lumad) and Pinoy pop icon Lolita Carbon of the band ASIN was held in Danao EcoPark on July 8.

Music-lovers also watched balladeer Basil Valdez who sang those oldies but goodies from the 60s and 70s that we loved so much...beautiful memories are made of them.

"Les Miserables," the infamous novel authored by French writer Victor Hugo, was staged in Bohol in July 2012.

Gospel singer Don Moen also brought the kingdom of God to Bohol with songs of praise and worship on Nov. 10. The concert was part of his three-day tour “God Will Make A Way! Philippine Tour 2012.”  Don Moen interpreted closely the words of the Bible in God Will Make A Way, Thank You, Lord, God Is   Good All The Time and Give Thanks.

THE BIGGEST FEUDS OF 2012

The gloves were off! Tagbilaran City Mayor Dan Lim and Carmen Mayor Che Toribio –delos Reyes vs. Gov. Edgar Chatto, Rep. Rene Relampagos and PA Ae Damalerio. Need I say more?

Tensions between Panglao Vice Mayor Evangeline Lazaro and Panglao Mayor Dodong Alcala exploded in the last quarter of the year.

The network war, in case you haven’t noticed, was getting uglier and uglier, too.

The cattiest of fights to the lowest of blows of these scrappy famous would continue this election time.

THE HOTTEST GUYS OF 2012

Marc Joseph Batoy made us swoon in 2012! Not only was he named Mr. Bohol Island State University (BISU) 2012, Mr. Teen Bohol 2012 1st runner up, Mr. Olive C 2012 and Mr. Regional SCUAA 2012! Outstanding student, bromantical buddy, sexy star: Marc’s the total package in 2012!

While Marc Batoy took the title for Mr. SCUAA this year, Adryan Mila, claimed 2012's Mr Teen Bohol despite unpopular promotions of the pageant.

Clement Paulinel Lofranco Ingking had a lot to thank God for in 2012. Even though he lost out to Marc as Mr Olive and Mr Teen and Mr. BISU2012, we still think Clement had a super-sexy year.

ALMOST… AND BIG BREAK OF 2012

Aspiring musical sensation Sherwin “Paeng” Cabilan Rosco of Tubigon made it to the X-Factor Philippines. Boholana diva Eva Gulle- De los Santos, 50, also joined the X-Factor Philippines. They failed to reach the finals.

Mitch Capili (Michelle Angelu Kapirig in real life) was among the Top 20 in GMA-7's Protégé: The Battle For the Big Artista Break. She didn’t continue her journey for the big artista break as she was eliminated in Protégé First Elimination Night.

Lukas Enrique Magallano, the son of Luther Magallano of Cortes and nephew of Dr. Luisito Magallano, was hailed as the winner of the Promil Pre-School I-Shine Talent Camp in the finals on July 28 on ABS-CBN. Lukas bested 11 other talented kids for the title of first "Grand I-Shiner." Aside from scoring a contract with ABS-CBN's talent management firm Star Magic, Magallano also won P500,000, and a one-year supply of Promil Pre-School.

STORIES THAT TOUCHED US IN 2012

We were touched of the baby girl thought to be just a few hours old when she was found early morning in Albur town abandoned in a bag.

And so, after all the twists and turns, the action, drama, romance, suspense, etc, Prony, the longest and biggest python in captivity, found a new home in Barangay Laya, Baclayon last March 7. Her “twin” sister, Paloma, is still performing her deadly acrobatic moves and kagwang style.

Thirty-five elementary students of Totolan Elem. School in Dauis were hospitalized for food poisoning after eating the fruit of 'tuba-tuba' on June 8. Also, two died and one hospitalized for eating popper fish or  butete in Mabini.

When nature strikes… Typhoon Gener claimed the lives of couple Jury and Mylene Betaganzo  of Buenavista on August 1.  The couple were on board passenger motorcycle somewhere in Getafe when hit by the falling coconut tree which also hurt its driver and the couple’s two-year-old son. They died on the spot.

Several rice fields had dried up after months of no rain in Bohol, considered the food basket of Central Visayas.  Water level in a major dam in Pilar town had reached critically low levels. Cloud seeding operations were done to save the farms.

At least 85 houses and 13 motorized outrigger boats called pumpboats were damaged when a tornado struck four coastal villages in the Jagna.

Typhoon Pablo ravaged 8 fishing vessels and left one dead. Hundreds were forcibly evacuated in several areas of Bohol.

SCANDALS OF 2012

2012 was Bohol’s gas price problem. It was reported that there was a significant discrepancy in oil prices in the province when compared with those of neighboring regions and other areas in Central Visayas.  Governor Edgar Chatto appealed for conscience and corporate social responsibility from the three major fuel companies, after a heated forum failed to settle the needed cheaper fuel prices in Bohol.

Panglao was shattered with a gruesome incident involving the rape-slay of a resort cashier on Jan. 10. Tagged as suspect in the grim rape-slay was Erwin Escomo. He confessed he was “out of his mind” when he raped and then killed Josephine Micla. Panglao Mayor Benedicto Alcala reacted furiously as he ordered Panglao policemen to take the island’s drug problem seriously.

Armed with guns, inmates Exequiel Aniscal, Brian Ceniza and Mario Llaya escaped from Bohol District Jail on May 17. Five days after the manhunt operation, Ceniza and LLaya were in an alleged encounter with police authorities in Ubay town.

Actor and businessman Mandy Ochoa lost his wallet and cellular phone while going through the Tagbilaran Airport’s X-ray machine. The airport terminal building had no CCTV cameras.

Two Boholanos who wanted to increase the size of their booties made it on TV when their buttocks got infected following injections of collagen. They sought the help of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in Central Visayas (CIDG-7) to trap the fake doctor.  After that incident, health authorities had issued a warning against using the services of unlicensed cosmetic surgeons or practitioners, saying consequences could be fatal.

Louie Digal vs. Facebook Trolls. Loboc Vice Mayor Louie Digal fell victim to internet pranksters on Wednesday, Nov. 21, when his Facebook account was hacked. A message promoting “political and venomous announcements” popped up on the mayoralty candidate’s page, and Digal was unimpressed that his account had been illegally accessed.

The Ombudsman suspended Cortes Mayor Apolinaria “Jasmine” Balistoy for six months without pay as a result of an anti-graft case that reached all the way to the Sandiganbayan filed by Vice-Mayor Danilo Montero.

Anti-epal Congresswoman, stage actress and political/social activist Mae Paner aka Juana Change was reacting on the tarpaulins of Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Bohol federation president Jethro Nathaniel Lim Imboy sprawling along the city’s main thoroughfares. The original tarps had the faces of Juana Change and other two speakers with Bamboo as the event entertainer for SK Convention on Sept. 15-16. Juana Change, who is known for her anti-epal campaign, ordered the organizers to remove the “epal” tarps. The organizers replaced the tarps and removed Juana Change as one of the speakers. The incensed Juana Change mentioned the incident on Morning at ANC and reported on GMA News.

GOOD NEWS OF 2012

Panglao Island has been named as one of the Best Secret Beaches on Earth by Travel+Leisure Magazine in its March 2012 issue. It also named Ananyana Beach Resort and Spa as one of the Best Affordable Beach Resorts occupying a prime spot on the beachfront serving Filipino-Mediterranean dishes like the penne with pork adobo.

The short film, Bells Ring Mr. King, directed by Ted Ramasola, was one of the nominees for best short film in the 35th Gawad Urian Awards organized by the Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino (MPP), an organization of respected film critics.

Members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community elected Bohol's most popular make-up artist and hairstylist Tracy Remolador Torres as president of the Bohol United Artists Association.

Thousands of devotees converged to pay homage to the sacred image of St. Pedro Calungsod, the second Filipino saint in Bohol on November 25, as part of the “Duaw Nasud” for Visayas and Mindanao.

The miniature Christmas Village of Mila Lim fascinated visitors and friends during the holidays. The Loboc town plaza came alive with a dancing lights and vibrant Christmas parols. Christmas lights adorned the facade of the centuries-old Loboc Church. In Sierra-Bullones, the giant Santa Claus, which measures 25 feet high, colored the Yuletide Season! The Pasko sa Plaza which featured Boholano talents attracted visitors for years.

FAMOUS FAREWELLS of 2012

Some of our (favorite) Boholanos passed away in 2012-- but left their mark on the world. They are gone but not forgotten.

In 2012, the province lost an incredible beauty queen and leader. Miss  Bohol Sandugo 1955 and former Mayor of Maribojoc Paula Raagas -Valles  passed away on July 8, 2012, aged 90.

The sudden death of eventologist and Alona's darling Uly Dolojol on Sept. 23, shocked friends all over Bohol. The outpouring of grief was immediate, with one common refrain: Alona Beach had lost one of its greatest persons.

Mrs. Asuncion Mira, trustee and treasurer of the University of Bohol (UB) passed away on Feb. 9.

Former city mayor of Tagbilaran Jose Maria Rocha passed away on July 4. He was 91. Rocha served as city mayor twice, first in 1980 to 1986 then in 1992 to 1995. He was also a city councilor and likewise served as executive secretary to then President Carlos P. Garcia.

The province was taken aback when news of Boholano great leader Erico Aumentado’s death surfaced at just 72.  According to Boy Pernia, the family’s spokesperson, Aumentado died on Dec. 25.  He was surrounded by family when he passed away in Makati. Boholanos worldwide were united in mourning after the passing of Aumentado. In a statement, House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. called Aumentado an “exemplary public servant.” “He [Aumentado] deserves full credit for transforming Bohol into one of the most progressive, peaceful and richest provinces today. He was truly an outstanding solon -- learned, dedicated, and principled,” Belmonte said.  Also, “Erico Aumentado” was trending on Yahoo Philippines.

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

Vanity Salinana: Queen of Cebu 2012

• She makes history as the first transgender from Bohol to win the crown

• Gender issues are important, but she also wants to represent all people
• Transgenders should not join pageants for natural born women

It took a while before I could reconcile the dainty and young ladyboy I met a few years ago in a campus pageant to the girl so sexy and sophisticated in the poster of the official candidates of Queen of Cebu 21012, a pageant for alternatives.

She was then simply VanVan Kintanar Salinana, who lived with her parents and two siblings at Baclayon town. She was hired to choreograph the Mr and Miss University of Bohol Personality in 2003. She had a unique style of executing her ideas that made the pageant as one of the most unforgettable campus pageants in Bohol. Then, she invited us to attend the town fiesta, my last encounter with her.

The moment of glory: Vanity Kintanar Salinana reacts with disbelief as she is crowned Queen of Cebu 2012. Courtesy: Queen of Cebu on Facebook

Years later, I heard through friends that VanVan became Vanity Kintanar Salinana who won the Carnival Queen of Mandaue 2010 and Bb. Gay Pilipinas Region VII in 2011.

And now, here she is Queen of Cebu 2012, in full bloom at 30--- with a flourishing career to boot (a call center agent team leader in Cebu City where she can express herself without borders) and made history for her province, after becoming the very first Boholana transgender to be crowned Queen of Cebu.

                                                       

An early favorite, Vanity who was also voted as Best in National Costume award, Best in Costume and Best in Long Gown, dashed the dreams of 20 other candidates as she dazzled the panel of judges (chaired by Mariquita Salimbangon-Yeung, Miss Universe 2010 fourth runner-up Venus Raj, pageant co-chair Tessa Prieto Valdez, Marguerite Lhuillier, Mark MacMahon, Michael Carandang, Ferdie Salvador, Alice Galang Eduardo, Marissa “Small” Laude and Tim Yap) with both her beauty and brains.

During the Q&A portion, Vanity expressed her gratitude and appreciation for the non-discriminatory culture towards LGBTs (Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals and Transgenders) in her workplace for the last eight years.

The pageant also served as a reunion of her former classmates and friends.

“Vanity is an achiever. We were classmates and barkada since high school. Until now, she has blossomed into a unique combination of beauty, brains and breeding,” said fashion icon EJ Relampagos who watched the pageant along with make-up artist and hairstylist Tracy Remolador Torres, Epeh Relampagos, Ryan Sines, Keith Cantoneros, Dandie Josol and Agua Monteclaro.

Former Tubigon’s Queen of All Media Raymund Delgado, Vanity’s fellow Carolinian said, “She’s such a vision in her Dino Lloren gown. A well deserved win.”

A Capricorn (January 1, 1982), Vanity stands 5'5", weighs 135 lbs., and measures 37-26-42. She finished Business Administration at University of San Carlos.

Here is Vanity:

When did you realize that you are Queen of Cebu 2012? During the coronation night or the morning after?

“To be honest, it hasn't fully sunk in yet! Up until now, I still could not believe I won the prestigious title!”

Do you have secrets sustaining your poise, your grace under pressure, especially during the crucial points in any contest?

“Just be yourself but maintain your focus on the choreography and blocking if you do not want the choreographer beating you up! (Laughs) Smile a lot and think of happy thoughts or any thoughts that empower you...if you think that way, it will show on stage.”

What are your preparations for the pageant?

“Diet! And hit the gym at least three times a day! Read newspapers and articles to update yourself with current events. Do not indulge into stressful activities, be worry-free as much as possible.”

What is your best asset and why?

“Physically, it is my eyes- they are so expressive! My wit and intelligence also play a vital part.”

How do you maintain your beautiful body and flawless skin?

“Gym and diet. I do facials and diamond peel twice a month. I moisturize my skin with a lotion.”

Would you rather be smart but not too beautiful, or beautiful but not too smart?

“Intelligence will get you to places. Being smart attracts people of the same kind. Physical beauty fades over time, so I’d rather be smart. Besides, if you really are so smart, you will find ways and means to make yourself beautiful!”

What do you think is the biggest decision that you’ve made in your life?

“It is accepting what I am- a transwoman. I remember my mom telling me the first she saw me when I was transitioning from m to f way back 15 yrs ago. She said," Is this what you really wanted? People will ridicule you for it." I just told her that this is me and I cannot deny myself for being what I am. I just have to be brave enough to face everything that life throws at me, be strong enough to endure the challenges and struggles. That decision was the greatest decision I have ever made, no regrets!”

A winning combination: Miss Paraguay Vanity Kintanar Salinana shines in her national costume, evening wear and swimsuit as well as her intelligent answer to promote acceptance for transgenders. Courtesy: Queen of Cebu on Facebook

Who’s your role model?

“My mother. I am inspired by her selflessness and unconditional love.”

How's your love life?

“Let us just say I am in a relationship with myself at present.”

                        

If, that is a big if, you have a boyfriend now… you were to choose between your boyfriend and Queen of Cebu 2012 title, which would you choose?

“Queen of Cebu. I don’t understand why I have to choose. If my bf loves me and wants me to be happy, then he would not mind the crown in my head for a year. Being Queen of Cebu inspires transwomen out there, I somehow influence their lives and I want to be that positive influence to the younger generations.”

What advocacy experience do you have? Maybe you have an important message to share ... and Queen of Cebu 2012 would be the venue or forum to start your advocacies.

“Queen of Cebu has three beneficiaries- home for the aged, missionaries of the poor (kids suffering from cerebral palsy) and COLORS, a TS organization formed to help out transwomen in Cebu live better lives. I would support all three all the way!!”

Young people today are liberated and adventurous, willing to try everything. What's your stand on pre-marital sex?

“It all boils down to being responsible to oneself. Before you do something, take time to think what are the possible consequences of your actions.”

What’s your take on the transgender issue, should transgender be allowed to compete in beauty contests for women?

“Transwomen are special women, there is no need to compete with genetic women for whatever reason. This isn’t about equality. Transwomen will never be 100% the same as genetic women, you cannot compare. We do not have to join beauty pageants for genetic women just to prove that we are equal.”

If you were to change something in yourself, what would it be?

(Laughs) “My legs, I want Barbie legs!”

What is your favorite quote?

“You are worth not for what you have, not even for who you are but for what others have become because of you.”

Describe yourself in three words:

(Thinks for a while then smiles) “I am real!”

What do you find sexy in a man?

“His maturity.”

And what turns you off?

“His arrogance!”

What is the essence of Queen of Cebu 2012?

“It is to inspire transwomen out there and to positively influence them to reach for their goals and never ever give up!”

                                                                                             

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

Aishite Imasu, Greg

FLASH REPORT:  Ms. Paraguay Vanity Kintanar Salinana-Banks has won the Queen of Cebu Universe 2012, pageant for Alternatives, held on November 9 at the Waterfront Hotel.  According to fashion icon EJ Relampagos who was in Cebu to watch and support Vanity, Ms. Paraguay truly deserves to win the crown. Vanity also bagged the Best in National Costume award, Best in Costume and Best in Long gown. Vanity hails from Baclayon town. Guests during the pageant were Anna Fegi, Maria Dona and Regine Velasquez-Alcasid.

Salinana-Banks( center) with friends

Wake-uppers:

Scene: President Barack Obama was reelected for another four years as president of the United States. Barack Obama tweeted, "Four more years," with a sweet photo of him and wife Michelle Obama hugging. And Michelle also tweeted her support for her commander-in-chief husband: "More than anything, I want to thank you all for everything. I am so grateful to every one of you for your support and your prayers. –mo ."

Seen:  Prof. Marianito Luspo posted on Facebook: My apologies to those concerned: I normally don't accept as friends on FB those who are known to be running in the coming elections. Not that I am unfriendly, just trying to maintain what I believe is FB's essential character - a social network where I can interact with people close to my heart. Please understand.

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They love Bohol! Courtesy: Tim Yap/Ruffa Gutierrez/Leah De Guzman

Where the stars spent their long weekend? They’re in Bohol! Spotted in Bohol last week were Ruffa Gutierrez, Tim Yap, Alice Dixson and Cristalle Belo-Henares.

Via Instagram posts, they shared with us their impressions of Bohol:

Ruffa Gutierrez- Life is such a beach! ♥♥♥ Having a blast in bohol this weekend. :) Thank you Bohol for this amazing holiday!

Tim Yap- Touched by Boholano hospitality!

Cristalle Belo-Henares- Beautiful above and below, Balicasag Island! The most beautiful dive boat I've ever seen!

Alice Dixson- #Boholidaze2012 lives on! Our lovely Loboc river cruise.

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As I’ve been saying, Atty. Julius Gregory Delgado aka the Running Lawyer is having the best of both worlds.

As Bared has been reporting in “scoop” last week, Atty. Delgado has been spotted in Japan.

Of course, Atty. Delgado is also enjoying his busy schedule as president of the association of young Boholanos in Manila.

“While in the land of Lapad, he was spotted at the Old City holding hands with a beautiful Japanese girl while giggling and whispering sweet nothings into each other’s ears. This Japanese told him a phrase from a famous song ’Anataga Hoshii, Anataga Hoshii,” said the roving aka sosyalan VRS. “Atty. Greg knows that the song means “I like you and I love you.”

“Doy Leo, I swear, I heard Atty. Greg whispered to the Japanese girl the words ’Ashte Masu’,” added VRS. “You should know that they are Japanese words for ‘I love you’.”

However, the “short romance” between Atty. Greg and the beautiful Japanese girl turned out to be as ephemeral as Cherry Blossoms — you know, gone in the wink of an eye.

“He has to leave Japan Ha! Ha! Ha!” revealed VRS. “Who knows if they are communicating through Facebook?”

By the way, the Japan visit was part of the yearly “vacation” of the members of Villaraza Cruz Marcelo Angangco, officially known as CVC Law or simply "The Firm," the country's top litigation law firm. They had a break from their rigorous work for their annual RnR abroad. Two of the members of the Firm hail from Bohol, lawyers  Elmar Galacio of Valencia and Julius Gregory Delgado of Tubigon.

Atty. Delgado shared a glimpse of their trip to the Land of the Rising Sun - Japan. When people think of Japan, the country's capital Tokyo immediately comes to mind. Unbeknownst to many, it is not the ancient capital of Japan. It is Kyoto which used to be the seat of power and culture of Japan.

Atty. Julius Gregory Delgado has experienced Japan’s past perfect as it preserves time-honored traditions and country hospitality.

 Japan is home to the world's largest urban metropolis, rugged wilderness, and a culture steeped in ancient tradition, Japan is a travelers dream.

For the first day of the trip, the CVC Group visited the Golden Pavilion and the Nijo Castle which used to be the seat of Japan's government. The day ended with a hearty dinner which includes the delicious (and expensive) Kobe Beef at a local restaurant. For the second day, the lawyers visited the Todaji Temple at Nara which house the biggest Buddha Bronze Statue and spent the afternoon at Osaka visiting the Castle of Shogun Tokugawa, Umeda Tower and Dotonbori. They also visited the Fushimi Inari Shrine where scenes of the Memoirs of a Geisha were shot. The day ended with a Keiseke, a full course Japanese dinner. The third and last day was a free day and Atty. Delgado spent his day at the Mecca of Motorsports, the Suzuka Circuit near Nagoya.

After the official trip of the firm, Atty. Delgado dropped by Hong Kong, his second visit to the city. In 2007, Atty. Delgado was part of the Philippine Team which competed in an International Law Moot Court Competition. While it rained for two days, it did not prevent Atty. Delgado and his two fellows to enjoy their brief visit at the former British colony.

Atty. Julius Gregory Delgado has become a samurai warrior in Japan. Samurai leaders wore fierce masks and horned helmets. All lived by a code that valued death over defeat.

Atty. Greg attended University of the Philippines-Diliman earning his Bachelor of Arts Degree Major in Public Administration in 2000. Aside from being a constant college scholar/dean's lister, he is best remembered as one of the fiercest activists of his time and was elected in the 34th UP University Student Council and headed the Community Rights and Welfare Committee. He also spearheaded the Senate Lobbying Team that demanded higher state subsidy and resisted commercialization of the UP.

He entered the Ateneo de Manila University College of Law earning his Juris Doctor Degree and was awarded Silver Medal for Second Honors being one of the top students of his batch. Before graduation, he was already invited by the top law firms in the country and signed-up for Villaraza Cruz Marcelo Angangco (formerly Carpio Villaraza Cruz), also known in the legal circle as "The Firm". Atty. Greg has been active in civic organization in the past and at present.

Presently, he is the president of the Tubigonians Association in Metro Manila, the youngest to hold the post. He is also the president of the Association of Young Boholanos in Metro Manila.

Back from his trip abroad, Atty. Delgado will visit Bohol to attend the meeting of Bohol Football Association. He will bring a trophy for a local tournament organized in honor of former Bohol Football Director  Allan Dinsay of University of Bohol who just passed away. The Bohol Football Team has a plan to rename the trophy, the Allan Dinsay Cup. He will also attend the meeting of the Bohol Highlands Gun Club in Tubigon Firing Range, a range in a hill overlooking Cebu-Bohol sea….and, ehem, share his pasalubong! He! He! He!  

Atty. Delgado’s cup runneth over.

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BCCTV launches E! Channel

BCCTV formally launched E! Entertainment Television last Thursday, Nov. 8 with a pre- taped special hosted by Bohol’s seasoned host Raul Gatal.

Lucky subscribers who participated during the whole-day affair received premium giveaways from E! Channel & BCCTV.

Entertainment Television better known as E! Channel with its iconic capital letter E with the exclamation mark logo focuses on updates from Hollywood, news on movies, television, music and fashion,” said Ms. Leizl Lim-Gregorio, BCCTV general manager.

The E! Channel which is seen by more than 600 million cable televiewers worldwide also features red carpet specials for the Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards & the Emmy Awards and also produces top- rating reality shows like Keeping with the Kardashians.

E! Entertainment Television can now be enjoyed by BCCTV subscribers and televiewers 24 hours a day over Channel 48.

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

Who will run in 2013 elections in Bohol & other tidbits

• Who will run, who will not, who may, who might

• Family and friends mourn the death of Uly Dolojol

 

Wake-uppers:

Seen:  VanVan aka Guadalajara Mimosa de Salamanca is representing Miss Paraguay in the Queen of Cebu 2012, a pageant for alternatives, on Nov. 9.  “She is another pride of Bohol beaming towards bagging the most prestigious Search for Queen of Cebu 2012,” says fashion icon EJ Relampagos. To support Miss Paraguay, visit Queen of Cebu on Facebook.

 

Scene: Some 6,000 barangay officials from the 1,109 barangays all over Bohol and other invited guests welcomed Pres. Noynoy Aquino on Sept. 26, at the Bohol Wisdom School gym for the 1st Bohol Barangay Day celebration. Pres. Aquino also stood as witness to the oathtaking of hundreds of converts of the Liberal Party. Spotted were Senator TJ Guingona,  Energy Secretary Rene Almendras, Secretary Edwin Lacierda, Akbayan Rep. Riza Hontiveros , Gov. Edgar Chatto, Vice Gov. Concepcion Lim, Rep. Rene Relampagos (1st district, Bohol), Trinidad Mayor Roberto Cajes, ABC President Crispina Vergara, Ae Damalerio and provincial board members .

 

Scene: Alay Lakad 2012 is on October 7 instead of Sept. 30, which is Milo Marathon day.

 

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The sudden death of eventologist and Alona's darling, Uly Dolojol, last Sunday, Sept. 23, shocked friends all over Bohol. The outpouring of grief was immediate, with one common refrain: Alona Beach had lost one of its greatest persons.

 

Bohol's seasoned host Raul Gatal, one of Uly’s closest friends, says it all:

 

I have been in a state of catatonia since I received the devastating news yesterday morning that a good friend of mine has just passed away.

 

Raul and Uly (right) in 2009

I am grieving and I am so saddened by his untimely demise. Mind you, it's not pro forma grief but real pain and anguish

 

Early last year, just before the 10th year bash of his swinging Oops! Bar which is ideally located right smack in the middle of the entire Alona Beach stretch, we had a falling out. It was a simple, petty misunderstanding that soon blew out of proportion. Add some intrigues here and bloated egos there and it was a point of no return. Some well- meaning friends tried to step in and intervene but these were simply exercises in futility

 

Crossing paths in a very small community where everybody knows everybody became an acid test for civility. Exchanging dagger looks and giving each other the cold shoulder treatment became a common occurrence that it soon bordered on the comical. But what's funny about losing a friend? The wedges between us became so deep that it became clear to those in the know that it was impossible for us to become friends again. 

 

I thought I had moved on. I thought I had everything covered. I was coasting along with my second lease on life when the call came yesterday morning

 

Right now, I am so distraught and my heart bleeds for dear Uly with whom I shared a lot of personal and private triumphs, the small intoxicating doses of hedonism and his constant advice on how to live a worry- free life. He is gone now and I really regret that I wasn't able to say sorry and for not telling him how wonderful he was as a friend

 

Alona Beach would never be the same again. Uly was the master planner and a wiz when it comes to events and especially when it has something to do with creating noise and making waves.  The signature pose, his boisterous laughter and his witty punchlines ...all these would be memories from now on. 

 

I'm sure right now as I am blogging this very minute that Uly is up there and peering down from where he is ensconced, he is asking "My oh my, what's the big fuss dahleeng?"

 

Uly, sleep tight now.  Goodbye, my friend...

 

***

“Yes, wala nay atrasay, go, go, go na si Congressman Arthur Yap,” a political consultant and businesswoman aka the Genius Lady (GL) told Bared in a chance interview the other day at The Buzzz Cafe.

 

The widely-smiling GL was shopping alone, sans the usual alalay (factotum) rich people can’t do without.

 

“I love reading your column but you no longer include tsismis and blind items!” said GL. “Those are colorful elements of entertainment column.”

 

With a glass of corn coffee and carrot muffins, the conversation proceeded without any further hitch.

 

“Dong Leo, Yap is not afraid of Loboc Mayor Leon Calipusan, businessman Angelo Balili and Dr. Elpidio Jala this coming election. Yap is really prepared,” warned GL, making the sign of “okay”.

 

3^rd district Rep. Arthur Yap (center) who is seeking reelection might face businessman Angelo Balili (left) and educator Elpidio Jala in 2013 elections.

Added GL: “Congressman Yap is running to further serve the people of third district because three years is  too short a period for a long list of projects and full program to make up for the many years prior his stint that 3^rd district  had been lagging behind the two other districts in the province.”

 

How about the critics who are (again) saying Rep.Yap is not a pure Boholano?

 

“Who is lumad nga Bol-anon among us? It’s the Eskaya tribe. Not the critics. Moreover, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has already resolved the issue on his residency wherein Comelec ruled that Yap has complied the minimum length of time required for him to qualify to run as congressman of 3^rd district. That cropped up in 2010 elections. And after having served for over two years and a half, obviously the issue is moot and academic. The people will vote you not because you are Boholano or not, but because you showed sincerity and your intentions are genuine. Depriving one to serve because he is not lumad Bol-anon is racial discrimination.”

 

Flashing a big mysterious smile, GL whispered, “There will be a lot of surprises next week! You wait and see!”

 

And while we are at it, here’s a rundown of those who will run, who will not run, who may run and who might not run in 2013 elections (that is, if, a big if, there would be elections next year). We will know who are officially running after the filing of certificate of candidacy (CoC) on Oct. 1-5. The list will grow longer and longer. You bet?

WHO WILL RUN

• Incumbent Gov. Edgar Chatto (For same position)

• Carmen Mayor Che Toribio-Delos Reyes (For Governor)

 

• Rep. Rene Relampagos (For reelection)

 

• Rep. Arthur Yap (For same position)

• Vice Governor Conching Lim (For reelection?)

 

• Rep. Erico Aumentado (For same position)                        

 

• Dr. Abe Lim (For Mayor of Tagbilaran City)                        

 

• Ex-Tagbilaran City Councilor Dodong Gonzaga (For Mayor of Tagbilaran City)

 

• Ex-Tagbilaran City Vice Mayor Toto Veloso (For Vice Mayor of Tagbilaran City)

 

• Trinidad Mayor Roberto Cajes (For Congressman of 2^nd District of Bohol)

 

• Tagbilaran City Councilor Baba Yap (For Mayor of Tagbilaran)

 

• Tagbilaran City Councilor Kit Oppus (For Vice Mayor of Tagbilaran)

 

• Danao Mayor Thomas Gonzaga (For reelection)

 

• Panglao Vice-Mayor Evangeline Lazaro (For Mayor of Panglao?)

 

• Tagbilaran City Vice-Mayor Nuevas Tirol-Montes (For reelection)

 

• Ubay Mayor Eutiquio Bernales (For reelection)

 

• Dauis Mayor Jimmy Jimenez (For reelection)

 

• Sevilla Mayor Ernesita Digal (For reelection)

 

• Former Dagohoy Mayor Sofronio Apat (For Mayor)

 

• Loay Mayor Rosemarie Imboy (For reelection)

 

• Buenavista Mayor Ronald Lowell Tirol (For reelection)

 

• Mark Leo Monton (For Mayor of Balilihan)

 

• Ex-Tagbilaran City Councilor Dandan Bantugan (For Councilor of Tagbilaran City?)

 

• Inabanga Mayor Jono Jumamoy (For reelection)

 

• Bien Unido Mayor Niño Rey Boniel (For reelection)

 

• Gerry Pabe (For Councilor of Tagbilaran City)

WHO WILL NOT
• Ex-barangay captain Glorivic Yap ("Running for Tagbilaran City Councilor? She is campaigning for Gonzaga-Veloso!")

• Tessie Labunog-Sumampong ("For Councilor of Loboc? My husband Libby will run!")

 

• Aris Aumentado (“For board member? He will file his CoC in 2016!”)

 

• Ex-Mayor Jose Torralba (“For Mayor of Tagbilaran City? He will be campaigning for his wife Councilor Betty Torralba!”)

 

• Ex-Provincial Board Member Amalia Reyes-Tirol (“For Mayor of Ubay? She is busy as a wife and grandma!”)

 

• UB Registrar Leah Tirol-Magno (“For Councilor of Tagbilaran City? She is busy as an ICT Princess!”)

 

• Dr. Mutya Kismet Tirol- Macuno (“For Mayor of Ubay? She runs too, and plays tennis also!”)

WHO MAY RUN
• Businessman Angelo Balili (For Congressman of the 3^rd district of Bohol?)

 

• Ex-Dauis Mayor Lulu Bongalos (For Mayor?                                                           )

 

• Andy Manatad (For Congressman of the 2nd district of Bohol?)

• Tagbilaran City Mayor Dan Lim (For Congressman of 1^st district of Bohol?)

 

• Ex-Catigbian Councilor Doris Dinorog-Obena (For Mayor of Catigbian?)

• Ex-Panglao Councilor Nila Montero (For Mayor of Panglao?)

• Dr. Elpidio Jala (For Congressman of the 3^rd district of Bohol?)

• Ex Vice-Governor Julius Cesar Herrera (For Vice Governor? Or, for Congressman of the 1^st district of Bohol?)

 

• Former SK Bohol President Bobbith Cajes-Auza (For Mayor of Talibon?)

 

• Ex-provincial board member Corazon Galbreath (For Mayor of Bilar?)   

 

• Provincial Administrator Ae Damalerio (For Vice Governor?)

 

• Catigbian Mayor Bert Salinas (For Board Member? Or, for Congressman of the 1^st district of Bohol?)

 

• Former Panglao Vice Mayor Pedro Fuertes (For Vice Mayor of Panglao?)

 

WHO MIGHT RUN

• Dr. Sharleen Lim (For Vice Governor?)

• Ed Macalandag (For Councilor of Tagbilaran City?)

• Barangay Captain Arlene Karaan (For board member?)

 

• Booy Barangay Captain Jun Telmo (For Councilor of Tagbilaran City?)

 

• Actor Cesar Montano (For Bohol Governor? "He is running in Manila.")

 

• Former Governor David Tirol (For Board Member? (“I didn’t hear it too. But he is running everyday, about more than 1 km. a day!”)

***

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