Christmas Village illuminates Mila Lim’s home

Wake-uppers:

Scene: The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)distributed  47 brand new patrol jeeps to 47 police stations here last Monday. local government units (LGUs) were grateful for the new patrol jeeps which will improve the crime fighting and disaster response capability of their police forces. For Police Inspector Sam Dacullo, chief of Inabanga Police station, the new patrol jeep is necessary for their operations.

Chief of Loboc police station Inspector

 Joseph Lopena (right) with Loboc Mayor Helen Alaba 

(center) during the turned-over of the 47 n

ew patrol jeeps from the DILG. 

Photo by Leo Udtohan/Chronicle

Scene: Police Inspector Joseph Lopena, chief of Loboc police station, will urge authorities to put warning signages and designated photo-stops at the famous man-made forest in this province after a tourist met an accident while taking a “selfie” along the highway. Lopena said that he will suggest the idea to the   municipal peace and order council meeting by the end of this month.

Scene: A paper bag left unattended at Carmen Public Market caused a scare on Friday night. The bomb scare turned out to be a false alarm. The EOD said the bag did not contain an explosive device but two broken cellphones wrapped with electrical tape and tiny wires.  Police said they will review the closed circuit television footage to determine if the case was intentionally or accidentally left at the area.

***

Wishes will come true for fans of Christmas upon visiting the “Most Christmassy House” of Hermila “Mila” Lim on M. Torralba Street, Tagbilaran City. Her house features a miniature Christmas village and adorns with many Christmas decorations.

Mila started her Christmas Village in 2008. Her creation was so highly appreciated by her family and friends who would come to enjoy the wonderful Christmas display.

           

Hermila “Mila” Lim has the “Most Christmassy House” in Bohol. 

Photo by Leo Udtohan/ Chronicle

 “This is my hobby and this gives me enjoyment during Christmas time,” says Mila.

Upon entering, a visitor immediately hears the song, “Deck the Halls,” and sees a garden decorated with small snowman figures.

The Christmas village at the main entrance has at least 60 houses and colorful mini-shops. It is filled with trees of green and gold,  miniature skiers up and down the slopes, carnival rides, dancers twirling to a waltz inside a gazebo, skaters in the park, Santa Claus dancing and flying on sleighs, and a Christmas train running in circles.

Christmas Village illuminates the house of Hermila “Mila” Lim 

with magnificent displays and holiday lights every 

year from September  through January.  

Photos by Leo Udtohan/ Chronicle

She has also collected at least 120 Santa-themed items in different sizes and configurations.   Fascinated by St. Nicolas since childhood, Mila  has adorned her house with Santa Claus images of different shades and shapes collected for the past 15 years—at the doorsteps and all over inside the place. These include a drunk Santa, a photographer Santa, a Santa Claus band, Santa in a parachute, playing the violin, singing and dancing Santas with reindeer and even a Tarzan Santa.

Mila has extends her Christmas decorations throughout the house and ornaments her kitchen and dining room for Christmas as well.

The sala is turned into a dazzling winter wonderland set aglow with Christmas lights and decorations.  The fireplace area is a unique setting of a cottage modeled after Santa’s village at the North Pole. The Lim’s grandfather’s clock also reminds visitors that Christmas is only few days.

Even the kitchen is very Christmassy,  too.  Spatulas, muffin tins, dishtowels, and more – Mila incorporates them for a unique look this season. Drinking glasses and place mats bear the Christmas motif, acquired during Mila’s travels with her husband Teofilo to Israel, Australia, Hong Kong and China.

This year, four items were added to the Christmas village. She has introduced many renovations but the family tradition and holiday celebration remains unchanged.

***

Tubigon lights up, ignites for Christmas

More than 2,000 people turned out to see the big switch-on on Friday night at Tubigon’s Christmas lights at the town plaza, one of the brightest in Bohol as the enormous Christmas lights display attracts visitors from neighboring towns.

Every December, the Tubigon Plaza becomes 

one of the brightest in Bohol province as an enormous 

Christmas lights display attracts visitors from neighboring towns. 

 Photo by Leo Udtohan/Chronicle

It will be illuminated for at least 8 hours a night until January , according to James  “Jingle” Tripoli of the office of Mayor Marlon Amila.

The display has 30,000 light bulbs, twinkling icicles, life-size stables with nativity figures which were made from indigenous and recycled materials.

James Lofranco said: “We started decorating the plaza during the administration of Mayor Marlon Amila, and each year it's got bigger and bigger.”

“The switch-on is a lot of work but it's also really exciting. All our friends and family come along to help and the whole community turns out to see the lights go on,” he said.

Meanwhile, the town plaza of Calape is also truly a visual in the eyes as it is decked with numerous Christmas lights and symbols.  

***

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

Bohol’s first WiFi area: Tubigon offers free wireless internet access to all

Wake-uppers:

Seen: Spotted in Bohol last week was TV host, model and editor Rovilson Fernandez. He was in Bohol to shoot Bohol’s sights and sounds for “Ang Pinaka” on GMA News TV.  Rovilson was with his co-host Mae Bautista for Ang Pinaka "Yummy Series" and Abettinna Carlos for Ang Pinaka "FUN-tastic" in Bohol episodes. “Travel, food and friends make work feel like work,” said Rovilson. The Bohol episode is on Feb. 23 (that is today!), 5:45 p.m. on GMA News TV-11.

Seen: Out of 6,000 entries, journalist Ric Obedencio’s photo of Loon Church before it was razed down by quake on Oct. 15, 2013 was chosen as “Top 50 finalists Wiki Loves Monuments Philippines Photo Competition in 2013.” Ric has received the certificate just recently. “It's a simple certificate but priceless. I Thank God for this,” he posted on Facebook.

Scene: Spotted in Bohol yesterday were PBA legends Benjie Paras, Ronnie Magsanoc and Jerry Codinera in Purok Bato, barangay Cabawan in Maribojoc town for the unveiling of the Alaxan Court of Inspiration. The legends conducted basketball clinic and exhibition games with the locals.  The Alaxan Court of Inspiration, a project of Unilab for the community, by the community, stems from Alaxan FR’s advocacy of changing the negative perception of body pain.

***

Hooray for free WiFi!!!

Mayor Marlon Amila

Well, the town of Tubigon is making history as Bohol’s first "Wi-Fi Area." Thanks to Mayor Marlon Amila who turned the town into a free Wi-Fi zone.

“No password. Absolutely free. All you have to do is check the available wifi in your gadget then open the webpage of the network provider (dost) and click GO TO INTERNET icon. Enjoy!,” said James Tripoli , Mayor Amila’s consultant on social and political affairs, broke the news last Friday.

We love free WiFi! In fact, many of us are seeking out restaurants and coffee shops with free Internet access. However, some business establishments are tightening rules for the free use of their Wi-Fi to help increase their sales. Since most WiFi have passwords, it is very rare to find a WIFI without a password (remember, “ang mabait na kapitbahay ay walang password ang WiFi!”).

To find it for myself, I went to Tubigon last Saturday to check the free WiFi. At the town plaza, I’d noticed the WiFi sign, so I tried using my tab. There really was WiFi connection and it was faster than I expected!

Isn’t it great?

Tubigon has joined in the race to roll out fast internet to the public which signals a newfound understanding of “digital rights.”

The free WiFi is embracing modern technology as the fastest way to achieve inclusive progress and equitable growth in this age of globalization. Many years ago, access to the internet was far from a luxury for the poor, now it is giving the poor access to advanced information and communications technology infrastructure that can change lives.

“This is an answer to the call of our netizens to provide free internet access in our downtown and it is a new sign of progress after the 7.2 magnitude killer quake,” said Tripoli. “The administration of Mayor Amila wants to come up with a method where we can make WiFi free to all. Soon, we no longer think of it as a luxury but as a commodity like electricity and water.”

Having a free WiFi in Poblacion is the first step in providing free wireless Internet to Tubigon’s 34 barangays as supported by the DOTC.

By the end of 2014, 60% of the town will be that way; the next year, coverage should reach 80%, according to Tripoli.

The response from Tubignons to the free WiFi has been overwhelmingly positive.

Emmanuel Nunez posted on Facebook: “Then information will readily become available to students and common people which is good. Smart people will become smarter. Information technology will boost up the overall economy.”

While there are those who are not yet ready for the free WiFi, Tripoli said, “We cannot please everyone. Expected nga naay dili ganahan sa atong bag-ong proyekto nga naangkon, in short haters or critics people. Like the old visayan saying says, 'Sa usa ka bulig, naay usa nga dunot'. Don't worry people. Our municipal officials headed by our Mayor Marlon R. Amila are doing their best for the reconstruction, repair of our public buildings and rehabilitation of our town. We cannot do these things in a short period of time. We need more time and while doing the rehabilitation effort, more projects are coming and we cannot just say NO to these projects as we want progress. We hope for your understanding, cooperation and continuous support to the present administration.”

***

Here’s from Arlene Pisquera who shares her predictions of the Oscars 2014 fashion:

Oscars 2014 dress predictions: Will J Law wear Dior again?

From the Golden Globes last January until the Oscars in March, Hollywood becomes a blur of red carpets, gorgeous gowns, and golden statues.

The American Hustle, Gravity and 12 Years a Slave looking like they’ll fight it out for the big prizes. But, as the film buffs argue over who will take home the spoils, the fashion pack is, as always, far more interested in what might happen outside the ceremony.

Oscars is always exciting because the 2014 Oscar nominees have very impressive fashion resumes.

Remember Amy Adams who wore a jaw-dropping Oscar de la Renta gown last year? She always manages to make our best-dressed list. We are excited to see what she will wear this Oscars!

We have a feeling that the lovely Jennifer Lawrence, who is nominated for best supporting actress in American Hustle, will wear another Dior, which she is doing for the past years.

We’re sure Lupita Nyong’o, nominated in the best-supporting actress category for 12 Years a Slave, will constantly impress us with her fashion statement.

Finally, we're pretty confident that veterans Cate Blanchett, Meryl Street, Sandra Bullock and Julia Roberts won't let us down.

Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2013 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, March 2, at the Dolby Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center.(From EOnline and Oscars)

***

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

Tubigon beauties shine in Miss BACS 2011

Betty Veloso-Garcia

Wake-uppers:

Scene:     From Atty. Julius Gregory B. Delgado: The Boholano Association in Metro Manila, Inc. (BAMMI), the umbrella organization of all Boholano town and sectoral associations in Metro Manila, will host its 2nd Charity Golf Tournament on October 14, 2011 from 6 a.m. to 12 noon at the Villamor Air Base Golf Course, Pasay City. BAMMI, led by its president, Mr. Geronimo Ambe of Ubay, VP for Comptrollership of the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC), aims to raise funds for its outreach projects and social initiatives in Bohol. The golf tournament will culminate with a Fellowship Dinner and an Awarding Ceremony at the Golf Course Club House with the participants getting the chance to win exciting raffle prizes. Ticket is at P2,500.00 which includes free registration, fairways fee, caddy fee, snacks and dinner and a chance to win and drive home a KIA PICANTO CAR as Hole-in-One Prize. For more details please contact Mr. Ronnie Ambe (09178065193) or Ms. Snooky Paras (09178139452).

Seen: TBTK President Betty Veloso-Garcia is in Tagbilaran City!  Before going to Bohol, she graced the 6th anniversary and induction ceremony of the Bohol Federation-HK & Visayas Alliance in Hongkong held on Sept. 18 together with Gov. Edgar Chatto and wife Pureza and Rep. Rene Relampagos and wife Imee. Betty is also reminding Boholanos around the world for the 5th Tigum Bol-anon sa Tibuok Kalibutan (TBTK) International Homecoming in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines is on May 8-20, 2012. Visit www.tbtk.us for info.

Aldrin Palaca

Seen: “Mr Beatbox” Aldrin Palaca will be in Manila this week for ABS-CBN’s Showtime. Aldrin got the nod from the judges in the audition held at the Island City Mall last Sept. 10. Beatboxing, which is connected with hip-hop culture, is a form of vocal percussion primarily involving the art of producing drum beats, rhythm, and musical sounds using one's mouth, lips, tongue and voice.

Scene: Kent Chester Ochea and Mian Antonette Carnice Simporios were crowned Mr. and Miss UB Personality 2011 on a rainy Thursday night, Sept. 22.

Seen: The staff and employees of Alona Tropical in Siquijor for their annual “bonding.”  Accompanied by Panglao councilor Ondo Montero and wife Nila Paredes-Montero, they’d visited the beaches and other tourist attractions of Siquijor.

Seen:  Bukang Liwayway Dance Troupe founder Wincesa Espejo-Araoarao will celebrate her 72nd birthday on Sept. 28.

Seen:  Bared’s VRS, who likes to party, has a tsika about this businessman who has bad behavior when in public and treating his people like dogs. “The wheel of karma is really true,” confirms VRS. “Because he lost his aircon and other valuables, and ((with emphasis), he lost his people. When he was richie rich, the foods in the fridge spoiled because there was plenty to waste.  Gone are the days when he bought sacks of rice because he is now buying kilos of rice for the day’s meal.” VRS continued that he even made ‘lungkab the kaha de hero’ o safe without the knowledge of his kasusyo.” The lesson? Remember to thank the Lord for all the blessings. Be kind, share it to others, reminded VRS.
.

***

• Complete Name: Clarlaine Falcon Radoc
• Height: 5'5”
• Weight: 54 lbs.
• Vital statistics: 32-27-33
• Color of eyes: Black
• Color of hair: Black
• Parents: Armando and Maricris F. Radoc
• Birthday: November 8 (Libra)
• Birthplace: Bohol
• Education: Secondary, Holy Family of Nazareth School, Tubigon
• Religion: Roman Catholic
• Title: Miss BACS Personality 2011
Photo Courtesy: Exquisite Photography-(038)5010575

• Complete Name: Rochelle Cabilla
• Height: 5’
• Color of eyes: Dark brown
• Color of hair: Dark brown
• Parents: Alan C. Cabilla and Rosila G. Cabilla
• Birthday: September 11, 1995 (Virgo)
• Birthplace: Tagbilaran City
• Education: High School at Holy Cross Academy, Tubigon
• Religion: Roman Catholic
• Title: Miss BACS Academics 2011
Photo Courtesy: Exquisite Photography-(038)5010575


The glittering ceremonies of the Miss Bohol Association of Catholic Schools (BACS) -1 held on September 15, at Garcia-Hernandez Cultural Complex, has produced Angela Rose Afable (of Sacred Heart Academy from Loon) as Miss BACS Athletics 2011, Rochelle Cabilla (of Holy Cross Academy from Tubigon) as Miss BACS Academics 2011, and Clarlaine Radoc (of Holy Family of Nazareth School also from Tubigon) as Miss BACS Personality 2011.

“Holy Cross Academy (HCA) and Holy Family of Nazareth School (HFNS), both schools from Tubigon, already tie (6 times) in the most numbered of Miss BACS Personality. A total of 12 crowns for Tubigon! Maanyag nga Tubigonon dalaygon!” shared Raymond Delgado, Tubigon information officer aka Tubigon‘s Queen of All Media.

According to Dennis Balbero, Tubigon tourism and cultural officer, other notable Miss BACS winners from Holy Family Nazareth are Vanessa Kaschier (2004), Alekzandra Lanoy (2006), Clarice Elaine Falcon Radoc (2008), Farrah Faye Mian (2009),and Dianne Mascariñas (2010), while Holy Cross Academy has Ruselle Aileen Dolatau (Miss BACS Personality 1995 and 1997 2nd Runner-up ABS-CBN Calendar Girl), Charmaine Batausa (Miss BACS Personality 1996), Christine Ires Simbajon-Lopez (Miss BACS Athletics 1997), Marecor Recio-Boligao (Miss BACS Personality 1999), Annie Joan Yumo- Miss BACS Personality 2001), Joanna Faye Obdulia Balaga  Boligao (Miss BACS Athletics 2002), Claudette Christine Ranara (Miss BACS Personality 2005), Rajevie Patpat Ravindrakumar (Miss BACS Athletics 2006), Kimberly Pacatang Lara (Miss BACS Personality 2007), Ma. Ruffa Boligao Baliore (Miss BACS Academics 2009); and Alyssa Quiñones (Miss BACS Athletics 2010).

Tubigon, as we have come to know, has produced the province’s beauty queens like Amir Sol (Miss Bohol Sandugo 2010) and Farrah Faye Mian (Miss Bohol Sandugo 2011). Anyag sa Tubigon and Miss BACS have been Tubigon’s way of not only honoring its local gems but also reinforcing its claim as the land of beautiful women with or without a title.

Bared tried to pick the two winners from Tubigon for another grueling Q&A portion to give us a clearer idea of their well-being.

 “I feel humbled, elated and proud to be adjudged and crowned as the Miss BACS Personality 2011,” said Clarlaine who bested 19 other candidates from different Catholics schools in Bohol.

“I'm so happy and proud. Though I did not get the top spot (the Miss BACS Personality) but it's the experience that makes me feel proud about. Knowing that there are lot of people supporting me, my family who's been there since the start, my mentors who spend their time during summer-school for my training, my friends and my school. And I would like to take this opportunity to thank them,” said Rochelle.

Clarlaine revealed that Miss BACS helps her to become a better person. “I experienced to develop more self-confidence and my level of academic and physical talent competency was more enhanced during the total BACS Athletic Activities most especially in the Ms. BACS Personality contest.”

“This experience helped me grow, it boost my morale because before, I was so aloof. I consider Miss BACS as an opportunity...opportunity to know what's in me and what I can proudly show,” said Rochelle.

Will they join Anyag sa Tubigon or Miss Bohol Sandugo in the near future?

From left: Miss BACS Academics 2011 Rochelle Cabilla, Miss BACS Personality 2011 Clarlaine Falcon Radoc and Miss BACS Athletics 2011 Angela Rose Afable.

“Actually, it's not really a plan, I would say, I am encouraged. It was after my coronation as Holy Cross Academy Dalagang Filipina 2010 (winner will represent HCA for Miss BACS), that there were these friends of Mr. Alindao (one of my mentors) from Tourism who approached my parents and asked to let me join Anyag. Since then, I really make the best of it, because I thought there are those people who trusted me that I can do it. So, why not try it? Who knows . And for Miss Bohol Sandugo, if I‘ll be given the chance, why not? It's my dream,” confessed Rochelle.  

“By this time, I'm not yet entertaining that kind of idea in joining that kind of activities. As of now, my focus is on my secondary study especially that I am now on the graduating year. I'll just say it in this way that ‘I'll just cross the bridge whenever I reach the river’,” said Clarlaine.

I hate people…
Clarlaine: “who oppress others especially those who are less fortunate in life.”
Rochelle: “who are insecure because they are those who tend to pull you down.”

My greatest pleasure is…
Clarlaine: “having a constant feeling of satisfaction on my study, on myself and all my activities in life.”
Rochelle: “chocolate.”

My worst moment is…
Clarlaine:  “when I see somebody who gets fun of destroying beautiful things and all that beautiful things refer to God's creation.”
Rochelle: “the day of the final rehearsal for Miss BACS when my family hasn't arrived yet...I cried...I just missed them.” 

My biggest fear is…
Clarlaine: “when I commit infractions or violations of the Commandments of the Lord God.”
Rochelle:  “death because I'm still young.”

My role model is…
Clarlaine: “basically my parents and all those people who have shown exemplary acts of modesty and righteousness.”
Rochelle:  “the late Pres. Cory Aquino.”

The most important person in my life is…
Clarlaine: “My parents because they provide the strong foundation of my personality development.”
Rochelle: “God.”

If I were to be reincarnated as an animal, I would be…
Clarlaine: “nobody because reincarnation is a divine act and I will just submit to His will.”
Rochelle:  “a bird.”

My most traumatic experience was…
Clarlaine: “when I tried to develop unknown fear in myself because of listening unfounded haunted stories.”
Rochelle:  “when I got scolded by my mother and my father didn't utter a word because he's angry too during that night. Well, I admit it was really a wrong thing. I felt very bad of myself then and I promised to them that I will not do it again.”

I deal with gossip by…
Clarlaine: “investigation to screen or filter the lies away from the truth.”
Rochelle:  “not paying attention to it really. I may have heard it but that's just it.”

I lose my temper when…
Clarlaine : “I am oppressed, insulted and abused.”
Rochelle: “I'm hungry.”

The one thing I can’t live without is…
Clarlaine: “I couldn't name a one specific thing that I couldn't live without. However, I should say that without God's gift of creation, it would be very impossible for me to live.”
Rochelle: “always been my family.”

Am I afraid of growing old?...
Clarlaine: “Of course not. I always pray to have a good health and long life but never entertaining an idea of having fear of getting old.”
Rochelle:  “Not at all. Growing old for me means progress in life.”

The type of guys who turns me on…
Clarlaine: “are those who are responsible, honest and truthful.”
Rochelle:  “is like my father. Simple guy with morals and principles. Silent but deep. Strong yet caring.”

The type of guys that turns me off…
Clarlaine: “are those who cannot provide a good contribution to our conventional society, instead, mislead the way and the truth.”
Rochelle:  “pervert, air-head and being too much of his good looks.”

My philosophy in life is…
Clarlaine : “to be always of service to the people and to God.”
Rochelle: "If you serve others as fully as you can, what you do will be a source of inner joy. It’s from the Dalai Lama.”

When I’m alone in my room, I fantasize about…
Clarlaine: “that someday, I will be recognized as the queen of justice system.”
Rochelle: “being a beauty queen in a flowy red gown, wearing a crown and carrying a bouquet of flowers and waving.” 

If I were somebody else I’d be…
Clarlaine: “president of our republic, I will be a champion in the fight of corruption.”
Rochelle : “Shamcey Supsup.”

I am happiest when…
Clarlaine: “I enjoyed and interested of what I am doing.”
Rochelle: “everybody around me is happy too because of what I do and when I succeed.”

I am saddest when…
Clarlaine : “I irresponsibly offend somebody.”
Rochelle:  “I make my parents upset.”

I want to become a…
Clarlaine: “good and brilliant legal luminary someday.”
Rochelle:  “doctor and a beauty queen.”

I pray for…
Clarlaine: “the general peace and order of our society.”
Rochelle: “good health of my family and world peace (cliché but true).”

Face to face with God, I'd tell him…
Clarlaine: “thank you Lord for giving me life and allowing me to serve you.”
Rochelle: “to bless my family and keep them away from harm. I love them so much.”

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

A different Princess (The Princess Analiza of Tubigon, Bohol)

Princess Analiza with daughter Batong Orange

When she appeared on TV years ago, she was an instant object of ridicule. Everyone who saw her laughed at her as, they made fun of her “fashion”—colorful gown with Biblical messages, necklaces and other stuff—even if she is not really that bad looking though—but people treated as if she is a nutcase.

And so Princess Analiza of Tubigon town, her so-called kingdom has become a byword to many of having different personas: a woman with esoteric wisdom and a person having a supernatural power.

Her kingdom is actually at the top of the Ilijan Hill in Ilijan Norte, five kilometers from the Poblacion, a protected municipal park for flora and fauna.

Her journey
We met the princess in August 2002 when we asked her to feature her for national TV networks.
Her domain Ilijan Hill was chosen to become her niche for her to practice her hermit passion.

Halilie Laylah Demeras Analiza, whose real name Lucrecia “Nene” Duterte Aplacador had an epiphany in the late 70s and started to become what she is today. She led a group known as “Subano Group catholic Holy God Spirit (SGHGS)” which had followed her to the hill and has stayed on top since. She and her followers have grown accustomed to the life on top of the hill that her group has yet to return to the lowland for 20 years now.

Ilijan Hill in Tubigon, Bohol, Philippines

Princess Analiza before she became the leader of the esoteric group married Isaac Aplacador who is with her o n top of hill. They got married before the epiphany that came to a simple lass that changed her life forever.
The couple was blessed with three children: Arcadio, Jose Baniecito and Laoro, all born on top of the hill. However, Laoro died at an early age due to unknown illness.  After the incident, Nene who was very frustrated sought God’s help, instantly a divine force helped her to overcome her sufferings in life.

Months later, she related the God Holy Spirit gave a “mission” to her and she became Princess Analiza.
Her mission: to pray while walking, inside the church, sea, cemetery and forest. She was also told to live in a small nipa hut and give birth to a baby girl.

She gave birth to the girl by herself without any aid or help of a midwife. The baby turned out to be Prinsesita Mier Ve Batong Orange Nonon Luningning or Batong Orange.

Different belief
It is not easy to enter her kingdom although they welcome other people visiting them. They said though the
Princess only entertains people with pure hearts. At least 17 families are members of the group, which includes people from all walks of life.

The group considers the hill as sacred that is why they are choosy on the kind of people they receive in their domain.

The Ilijan people speak their own language and only them could understand it. Our interpreter-member Mawin told us that the spirit taught them the language they are using.

The Princess would give out blessings good enough for two years and hand out spiritual names to her followers. A pattern though could be observed in the names of the members where the word WIN will be added to your name while the word MAR will be added if you are a female. So, if your name for example is Leo, you would be called Leowin subject to the approval of the Princess since she is the only one authorized by their group to give out spiritual names.

The group maintains they are no cult, contrary to the perception of other people unfamiliar to their ways.  The Princess said that they are not doing magic rituals, spells or use symbols that are identified with the underworld or to Satanic cults. To prove that their group adhered to the Being up above, the group adopted the catholic Church’s teachings as they are also have statues of saints and use of Catholic songs and prayer books where hey also attended mass in their chapel. The Sunday mass is officiated by an elder since the Princess does not mingle with the group during this time as she is contended by giving out instructions.

The "Holy Family" 

The history, mission and practices of the group has been edified so that their members and the next generation would be able to practice and keep their belief alive.

But what strange is the singing of the last part of the national anthem, they sing “ang MABUHAY nang dahil sa iyo,” instead of the original “ang mamatay nang dahil sa iyo.” They believe that their vision tends to bring in ponderous logic and believed to have mysterious healing powers. However, the Princess said, “it means to show unity.”

Princess Analiza believes every human being is completely responsible for his own actions. To her evil is a choice that is made by man and should expect punishment as a result, while blessings will come and go when you are good.

She also holds the ancient belief on reincarnation—the after-life.

Healing powers
Princess Analiza is said to have ability to bring fortune to those who believe in her, foretell calamities and heal the sick.

There were stories from the members that the Princess healed them. The late barangay captain of Ilijan Norte Rogelio Lamalinao testified that the people in the hill once cured a man who had a severe gangrenous wound. Since the man has no resources to pay for an operation, he opted to seek healing from Princess Analiza’s group. During the healing, Princess Analiza raised both her hands as if asking for a divine intercession, when witnesses attested they saw as if an expert’s hand massaging the patient.

In other instance, the village head said while he was still a policeman, he had to climb the steep hill to see for himself and examine a dead baby who was not buried because their leader told them that the dead baby will not undergo decomposition. True enough, he found the boy’s body placed inside an urn in squatting position with clear eyes opened, without any sign of decomposition, even after over a year.

There was no way they could embalm him or introduce preservatives to the body, considering the place is bereft of science and technology.

No regrets
The Princess expresses no regrets of living a life on top of the hill. Despite the supernatural power she possesses which keep people to wonder with awe and respect, she still has the heart of a mother and she is a Princess in her own rights. (March 27, 2005)

Trivia:
The Solid Rock, the Ilijan Hill in old times was known as wizard's place.  It is the Kingdom of King Antipone and Queen Fairystil. Long time ago, people borrowed things and wedding gowns from this place.

In Year 1952, people from neighboring towns were panic for they saw a wondrous Virgin at Ilijan Hill and when they came nearer nothing could be seen. They could only feel and smell the fragrance. The people from Dauis, Bohol also arrived in Ilijan Hill following a wondrous Virgin on top of the rainbow going to Ilijan Hill.


Update: Princess Analiza and Batong Orange are still at Ilijan Hill. The members are growing in numbers and in faith.

Farrah Faye Mian: Smart and beautiful

Farrah Faye Mian: Smart and beautiful

Tubigon wins Miss Bohol Sandugo crown again

It was one of the best batches ever, with the 19 girls giving the judges a hard time picking the winners. Fresh, young and talented, there were seven candidates who finished salutatorians, two high school valedictorians and three with honors. There were registered nurses and a licensed teacher who graduated magna cum laude.

And the winner is….

Miss Tubigon Farrah Faye Abarquez Mian, 17 (5’6, 114 lbs., 32-24-35), was crowned Miss Bohol Sandugo 2011.

At 15, she won the title as Miss Bohol Association of Catholic Schools (BACS) Personality 2009 representing Holy Family of Nazareth School- Tubigon, Bohol.

At 16, she gained the title of Miss Central Visayas Regional Athletic Association (CVIRAA) Meet in 2010 and Anyag sa Tubigon 2010.

A part time model in Cebu and a medical technology student, she brought her hometown the Miss Bohol Sandugo crown for the second-time. It was Amir Sol who got the crown for Tubigon for the first time in 2010.

"Thank you Bohol, this is the most wonderful moment of my life," said Farrah with tears in her eyes now that she is proclaimed Bohol’s Finest Daughter and included in the Miss Bohol Sandugo Honor Roll.

Farrah was also declared Miss Talent. Other winners were Miss Loon Ely Rose Apple Angcon who finished first runner-up, while Catigbian’s Aimee Ann Anunciado was second runner-up.

The Miss Bohol Sandugo 2011 beauties: (left to right) Ely Rose Apple Angcon (first runner-up), Farrah Maye Mian (Miss Bohol Sandugo 2011), Aimee Ann Anunciado (second runner-up)

A few days after she was crowned at glittering ceremonies at the Bohol Cultural Center last July 16, Farrah is available for another round of grueling Q&A. This time with Bared.

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

I'd rather be smart but not too beautiful. For me, beauty is nothing without brains; wit and character has always been something that I have always wanted, even until now. A person's physical appearance is all too temporary but when you have the brains, there are no limitations as to the things that you can accomplish.

Why are you taking up medical technology?

“I'm taking up medical technology as a springboard for medicine. I've always wanted to be a doctor and I believe that medical technology offers not only the adequate amount of training but it also gives me the best medical experience which, if I am to survive med school and truly be a doctor someday, I have to undergo and overcome. I chose to study in Cebu mainly because there were no schools offering medical technology in Bohol and partly because Velez College is one of the top performing schools in terms of medical education.”

So, you have to read a lot of medical books.

“I do, more than I thought I ever would in this life! Right now, I have three purely medical books used by doctors and pre-med students alike and it's so thick! That doesn't even include the other compiled notes given by our teachers but still, the dream lives on.”

Farrah Faye Abarquez Mian, the 30^th Miss Bohol Sandugo, is now included in the Miss Bohol Sandugo Honor Roll. Foto by:Glenn Tumanda Gamayot

What do you think is the smartest thing that you’ve done so far?

“I think the smartest thing I've done so far was choosing the Holy Family of Nazareth School as my institution. Without it, I wouldn't be standing on this pedestal. they have not only trained me well academically but they also molded me as a person with Christian values.”

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

“The biggest decision I've ever made in my life, I think, was taking up medical technology in Velez. It's 10 times harder than I thought it would be but I'm still here, and I’m starting to think that this is where I truly belong.”

Have you always wanted to be a beauty queen since you were small?

(Smiles) “When I was small, I didn’t actually think nor imagine that I would ever be a beauty queen. I watched Miss Tubigon once and only once when I was about 5-7 years old. I was blinded by the glittering lights and the pretty ladies on stage and in a way I guess I thought that those things would never happen to me. I'm starting to actually believe in the saying ‘be careful what you wish for cause you just might get it’!”

Aside from winning the Miss Bohol Sandugo title, what do you think have you achieved so far?

“I think more than this title, my greatest achievement lies in being a 10% beauty queen and a 90% something else entirely. I'm a simple person and yet I have huge dreams that I think every person should have because why should we aim for the moon and land on the stars when we can always aim on the moon and still land on the moon? One’s perception is the only thing that is stopping him/her from achieving his/her greatest fantasies.”

What advocacy experience do you have? Maybe you have an important message to share ... and Miss Bohol Sandugo would be the venue or forum to start your advocacies.

(Smiles again) “I do. I've always been an environmental advocate and I believe in animal rights as well and that was the main reason why I became a vegetarian in the past year. I think animals should be treated well and should be given equal rights because they too have a life. It is unjust that we disregard them and treat them as beings lower than they deserve. I also think that in this extremely technological age, preserving the gifts that Mother Nature has given to us is the only answer to all our environmental problems. Starting in simple but potent ways, like planting trees, throwing one's garbage in the right place, cleaning our surroundings will actually help determine not only our future but also the future of our children and grandchildren, and I sure still want them to see the world as I see it now.”

When did you realize that you are a Miss Bohol Sandugo? During the coronation night? Or the morning after?

(Smiling even widely) “It was after a few days, when my classmates and even my teachers here in Cebu actually started talking about it and kept mentioning that astonishing fact. Until now I think I still haven’t fully grasped the fact that I am the Miss Bohol Sandugo, it’s a huge responsibility and I think I still don’t understand the implications of carrying such a great title.”

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

“Prayer. That's my only secret. We are the captain of our own ship but in the end, it is always the Lord who decides what will become of us in the future.”

Do you have a plan to join higher beauty pageants like Bb. Pilipinas and Miss World-Philippines?

(Thinks)“Maybe after med school. I'm an academician now and I have to finish what I've started before I start another journey.”

What is your best asset and why?

“I don’t actually have a greatest asset.” (Laughs)

Who’s your beauty queen role model?
“My beauty queen role model is Anna Theresa Licaros who was a magna cum laude in the university of the Philippines in mass communications and who, shortly after she arrived here in the Philippines after joining the Miss Universe Pageant, chose to enroll for law rather than to have a press conference. like her, I actually believe that education comes first for it is the only thing that even your greatest fiend cannot take away from you.”

Any other woman whom you admire?

“That would be my aunt. She was the one who was always there for me and I pretty much grew up under her supervision. I love the way she handles stress and how she's so strong despite the challenges that she has to face every single day of her life.”

How’s your boyfriend now that you are Miss Bohol Sandugo?

(Laughs) “Oh, he's stressed alright. We’re in a long distance relationship but I think that winning this pageant won’t actually affect the way I feel about him.”

As Miss Bohol Sandugo, what qualities of the Boholano youth would you highlight?

“His/her open-mindedness. The Boholano youth adapts to changes faster than a neuron sensing a stimulus in the receptors of the body but even so, they still honor their past and continue to practice their traditions, one I myself would always do and in the future, something I will teach my children as well.”

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

“I think sex is a sacred gift given only to married people. It’s okay to be adventurous but we must know our limitations.”

How about RH Bill?

“But in terms of the RH Bill, I can’t really decide because as a Christian, I must honor the Lord's commandments but as a person living in a third world country, I also think that is practical and that it would greatly affect the future of this country.”

What is your stand on divorce in the Philippines?

“I do not believe in nor agree with divorce. I believe that what God has joined, only God can separate and that rings true as the groom and the bride profess their vows when they say "till death do us part." Marriage is the largest step in any relationship and I think before making that decision, you must know in yourself if you are ready and if you really love the person you're marrying.”

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

“If I had the chance to change something, I would change the way I had spent my free time. I would have had the chance to learn how to play the piano and the violin, but I guess with school going on now I would never have the time.”

What’s your type of a man?

“I’m not really very specific but I'd like him to be tall and smart. I think a guy who is actually good with words is very hard to find nowadays and there is nothing more boring than a guy who barely talks. I'd also like him to be a doctor (fingers crossed till then!) since it would be easier for me if my boyfriend would have the same job as I did since we would already have an understanding when it comes to medicine and our passion for it.”

What is the essence of Miss Bohol Sandugo?

“The essence of the Miss Bohol Sandugo is being a great, if not legendary example of and to the women of Bohol. I say this generally and without bias as I think that it is one of the greatest achievements a woman can have in her lifetime for winning this title means that she is not only a woman of beauty but also of wit and character who will be the ambassadress of goodwill not only to her fellow Boholanos but also to the diverse people of the Philippines. She will in herself carry the true grace and mystery that surrounds every Boholana and she will not only be an example, but also be a sign that the practice of Boholano cultures and traditions remain steadfast even in this new millennium of technological advancement.”

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Email leoudtohan@yahoo.com.