Honor thy Father; and other tidbits

Our fathers are our heroes. Let’s start today’s Father’s Day with a little story:
 

A father retired after years of service and bought a brand-new car, his first ever, with the money he got from the insurance company.

One morning, he caught his little son scratching one side of the car. Furious, the father beat up both hands of the boy who ran inside the house in pain, crying.

When the father checked the damaged part, he turned pale with remorse. Scratched on it were these words: Happy Father’s Day, Dad I love you!

Touching, touching, isn’t it?

While we are at it, here are some quotes about fathers (dad, pa, daddy, pop, popsy, tatay, amang, ama, etc) or by fathers that are perfect for Father's Day:

One father is more than a hundred schoolmasters. ~ 17th century English proverb

Any man can be a father. It takes someone special to be a dad. ~ Unknown 

A father is always making his baby into a little woman. And when she is a woman he turns her back again. ~ Enid Bagnold

Any man can be a father. It takes someone special to be a dad.~ Anonymous

It is not flesh and blood but the heart which makes us fathers and sons. ~ Johann Schiller

A man knows when he is growing old because he begins to look like his father." ~Gabriel García Márquez

Be kind to thy father, for when thou wert young, who loved thee so fondly as he? He caught the first accents that fell from thy tongue, and joined in thy innocent glee. ~ Margaret Courtney

To her the name of father was another name for love.~ Fanny Fern

How true Daddy's words were when he said: "All children must look after their own upbringing." Parents can only give good advice or put them on the right paths, but the final forming of a person's character lies in their own hands.~ Anne Frank

A father is a banker provided by nature. ~ French Proverb

“Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise),“that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land.” Ephesians 6:2-3

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Bells Ring Mr.King at 35^th Gawad Urian 

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

Bells Ring Mr. King tells the story of undocumented home-health caregiver working in the US who is suffering from an acute case of homesickness. It  was originally created as Bohol's sole entry to NCCA's flagship project Cinema Rehiyon (CR) 2011, a non-competition film festival that features films from the different regions of the Philippines.

The screenplay was from Lorely Trinidad and it was based on her theater performance. It was originally developed and performed for TeAdaWorks New Works Festival, Highways Performance Space, Santa Monica, in California U.S.A.

The actor, Mitzi Ibaya, who is also into theater and literature, translated some of the lines into the Visayan dialect for added authenticity. It was her first time to perform for film.

It was shot entirely in Bohol at Ramasola Studio. The film was just shot using a DSLR as shown in the behind the scenes video available in the internet. The set production was done in one day and the shooting was done for another one day.

Since its debut in Cinema Rehiyon, it was also featured during Arts Month in the province of Bohol and also shown during Women's Month.

“Bells Ring Mr. King is the second time Bohol was represented at Cinema Rehiyon.  The first time was when they included another Short I made entitled ALLAN, shown in CR 2010 at the CCP,” Ted told Bared on Facebook.  

At CR 2011 in Davao, one of the jurors for the Urian Awards watched it and told Ted to submit it as an entry for the Urian. “All along I thought it was being considered for last year's Urian and that it didn't make it,” said Ted.  

Ted left for the US last year.

“So imagine my surprise when I received a text message from the Philippines from the Urian yesterday informing me that my Film was a nominee for this year’s Best Short Film Category,” Ted shared.

“For me, the nomination is honor enough, even if doesn't win tonight it is enough that I know Bohol is represented and that it serve as inspiration to all aspiring film makers in the Province that they can pursue their own dreams,” he concluded.

Note: The 35h Gawad Urian was hosted by Venus Raj, Angel Aquino, Zoren Legaspi and Butch Francisco. Replays of the 35th Gawad Urian will be shown on Cinema One on June 17 at 4 p.m. and June 24 at 10 p.m.)

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Adrenalin rush!

Extremely exciting, extremely enjoyable! Our media colleagues— Rey Anthony Chiu, Edward Guyano, Rey Tutas, Jun Gutierrez, Willie Maestrado, Liza Macalandag, Ric Obedencio and yours truly—had experienced extreme activities at its best at Pandanon Island, Getafe and DATE PARK in Catigbian.

We were invited to cover the Bohol Wakefest 2012 at the Pandanon Island in Getafe, Bohol which started last Saturday until the 25th of June. It gives local and foreign tourists the opportunity to enjoy with one of the fastest growing sports in the world and in Asia–the wakeboarding.

Pandanon can be reached by a motorized pumpboat about 30-40 minutes from the town port.

                                                  

But first, we have Getafe Councilor Tony Ouano to thank for facilitating our Pandanon tour. You see, the influx of local and foreign tourists has grown so huge when Pandanon Island, which is also known as the “little Boracay,” is a favorite summer destination.  

First in Bohol and in the Visayas, wakeboarding and wakeskating are extreme surface water sports. 

Wakeboarding, a water skiing-snow boarding-surfing-technique combination wherein one rides, not skis, but a single board with stationary, non-release bindings for each foot while standing sideways. It is now one of the world’s fastest-growing sports and a burgeoning lifestyle for some.

Wakeskating is an adaptation of wakeboarding that employs a similar design of board manufactured from wood or fiberglass. Unlike wakeboarding, the rider is not bound to the board in any way, which gives the sport its own unique challenges. Instead, the top surface of the board is covered with grip tape, or foam. 

Wakeboarder shall be charged P600 for half-day use of the facility and P900 for its whole day use. Discounted rates include: PhP 2000 (3 days); PhP 3500 (7 days); PhP 5000 (10 days).

With offering like these, Pandanon Island has to become Visayas’ sports central. 

Gov. Edgar Chatto, accompanied by wife Pureza and daughter Trisha, graced the event. 

After Pandanon Island, we decided to visit  Catigbian for the Green Recreational Eco-Adventure Tourism (GREAT) offered at the Dagook Adventure Tourism Excitement (DATE) created during the administration of Mayor Bert Salinas. 

The DATE PARK is presented as another wholesome family treat for parents to introduce their kids to nature conservation and environment protection concepts. 

Here, one can experience nature. The canopy walk which is the park’s first outdoor like experience. From the canopy walk, one follows a trail carefully carved out from an old trail which people used to access the roaring Dagook Falls some 20 meters below.  

If you are not afraid of heights, the monkey bridge is the most exciting part. And oh, yes, the bridge is suspended some 30 meters where the roaring Dagook falls hurl a gurgling mass of water into the gorges below.  And, boy –oh boy! What a great range of adrenalin-pumping activities it provides.

                                                                                                      

I did a brief stop in the middle of the shaking bridge to breathe in the fresh air and enjoy panoramic views on the walk.

Tours of the DATE PARK take approximately 45 minutes, are fully guided and are currently offered every hour on the hour. 

The huge billboard inside the clean and well-manicured DATE PARK Information Center says: “Manage your fear and try the canopy walk, trek and enjoy nature through the mountain trails, test your adrenalin and negotiate the monkey bridge and refresh yourself on air taking the mountain slide.” 

Whew!!! Tiresome but uplifting. One day was just not enough for us to experience non-stop excitement and non-stop enjoyment. Whether for its specialty extreme water sports and scenic sight-seeing tours, Bohol never ceases to amaze. Oh well, there’s always a next time! Soon!!!

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

Jun Gutierrez is always alerto, Miss Silka Bohol 2012 and other juicy items

•Jun Gutierrez is always alerto

•Salamat po, doctor and other juicy items

 

Wake-uppers:

Scene: The much-awaited fight between Manny Pacquiao and Timothy Bradley Jr. will be shown live and for free in some places in Bohol today, June 10. The Pacquiao-Bradley fight will be held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, with 14-year-old Filipina and New Jersey-based Kirby Asunto rendering the Philippine national anthem and AI first runner-up Jessica Sanchez singing the American national anthem. Where to watch for free? For the nth time, Geresonic (along Ma. Clara Street) and Diccion Electronics (along CPG Avenue fronting the Bohol Cultural Center) will have free showings for their parokyano. If you want to witness the fight on a wide screen, go to Island City Mall Screenville Cinema and BQ Mall Cinema.

 

Seen: At 63, Virgilio Ganade Penticase of Catarman, Dauis, is the oldest student in Bohol. He is a Grade 7 student at Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School (DCPNHS).  Nong Viriglio is one of the 1, 183 Grade 7 students of DCPNHS. Nong Virgilio said: "Para makamao ko. Guwapo gud makamao ta gamay. Mao nga nakahukom ko moeskwela karung tuiga para naay hibal-an gamay. Sagaran tuntuhon sa mga tawo karun mao ang mga ignorante." Also DCPNHS Head Teacher III Mrs. Concepcion Bagotchay confirmed the increase of students this school year.

dyRD field reporter Alerto Jun Gutierrez with Virgilio Ganade Penticase, a Grade 7 student of Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School.

 

Scene:  Thirty-five elementary students of Totolan Elem. School in Dauis were hospitalized for food poisoning after eating the fruit of 'tuba-tuba' last Friday, June 8. According to the victims, a classmate gave them the nuts to eat, not knowing they were poisonous.  School principal Saturnina Arcamo said they gave first aid to the kids before bringing them to the hospital.  In July 2007, 21 pupils were downed for eating tuba-tuba nuts. In 2005, more than 100 schoolkids were hospitalized and 22 died in Mabini Food Poisoning. Tuba-tuba or jatropha, is considered as one of the country's most promising source of bio-fuel today because its nuts contained oil that can be processed into biodiesel fuel.

Some of the victims of the mass poisoning

 

Scene:  Women want the perfect thighs and butt. Beauty watchers said that nothing is sexier than the thighs and gluteus maximus built to perfection. Case in point: These two women from “the other side of the Choco Hills” who want to increase the size of their booty. They sought help from a cosmetic doctor in Cebu City only to find out that the doctor is fake and their buttocks got infected following injections of collagen. The two complainants, aged 34 and 37, sought the help of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in Central Visayas (CIDG-7) to trap the fake doctor. The suspect, Gloria Rabor, allegedly performed buttock augmentation procedures on without a license and charged them P60,000 each. Health authorities have also issued a warning against using the services of unlicensed cosmetic surgeons or practitioners, saying consequences could be fatal.

 

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Babam turns 4

 

The birthday girl Princess Jasmine Babam with her birthday cake.

Athalia Jezka  Karielle, known by everyone as Babam, turned 4 last June 3  with  a children’s play party celebration. Babam and her friends and loved ones had a great time playing at the Playhaus at ICM Mall, which was made exclusive for her group at that time. After the fun at the Playhauz, everybody proceeded to The Prawn Farm, also at ICM Mall, for another sumptuous treat.

 

Babam looked so cute in her Princess Jasmine costume which was prepared by her dotting grandma Leah Tirol-Magno. The very pretty fondant cake was specially made by Charmaine “Cheng” Dumadag-Usares following the design that Babam herself chose. 

 

Babam is the daughter of Tsino Y. Lim and Karla “Am-Am” Tirol Magno.

 

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15 candidates vie for Miss Silka Bohol 2012

 

Some of the candidates

Fifteen candidates are vying for the Miss Silka Bohol 2012 title.

 

The contestants aged 15-21 years old were presented to the public last Friday at the Island City Mall Activity Center. They are Christine Mae Cuarto, Maeveen  Marie Durban, Marie Joy Pabon, Gladys Mae Sinconiegue, Marie Gigi Galacio, Michelle Juguan, Candy Cumayas, Erica Jane Mejos, Marylle Paloso, Mitch Ara Acebu, Dina Tangub, Jeza Bucog, Lara Ann Lumayag, Karen Montreux and Irish Mae Cleunar.

 

The talent competition on June 23 at the BQ Mall at 4 p.m. Coronation night will be on July 19 at the Holy Name University gym at 8:30 p.m. And the winner will represent Bohol in the annual search for Miss Silka Philippines in Manila.

 

The search for Miss Silka is an annual endeavor of Cosmetique Asia Corporation, makers of Miss Silka beauty products which have been growing each year in terms of prices and grandeur. 

 

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Jun Gutierrez is always alerto

 

Alerto Jun Gutierrez reports the news as it is.

Last Friday, while we were attending a presscon, some schoolkids were brought to the hospital for food poisoning. Our media colleague, Jun Gutierrez, had to leave the venue in the name of news. I’d noticed it many times that if there’s big or breaking news, Jun would report it right away. Very alerto!

 

So what’s the stuff that Jun Gutierrez is made of? How far would he go in pursuit of a hot lead?

 

Jun Gutierrez (Alfredo Gutierrez, Jr. in real life) enjoys a unique place in Bohol broadcasting. His forte isn't limited to hospital beats but expands to interesting news stories.

 

Alerto Jun, as the broadcaster with that trademark name is better known, dishes out fresh news stories Monday to Saturday, morning (as early as 5 a.m.) and evening (11 p.m.) on dyRD’s toprating programs such as Radyo Balita (hosted by Cil Remolador), Patrol Balita (hosted by Atoy Cosap), Inyong Alagad (hosted by Fred Araneta, Chito Visarra and Jerry Pabe), Balita sa Udtong Tutok (hosted by Atoy Cosap), Aksyon Line (hosted by Fred Araneta), DYRD-DYZD Patrol Balita and Luyo sa Balita (hosted by Richard Bompat).

 

In the evening, Jun is the on-call field reporter of the toprating Tagbilaran By Nite (hosted by Jerry Pabe and Tonton Aniscal), where his beats are among the most listened news stories.

 

Since he took his bow as a field reporter five years ago, Jun has been, as the dyRD blurb says, travelling every nook and corner of Tagbilaran City and towns, unlocking sealed lips and going beyond the limits in search of a good story, sigh, putting his family his "second" priority? (“Not at all, I still have time for them.”)

 

Jun joined the radio despite his commitments as federated president of Hatod-Bohol Private Motors Service Association, president of Tagbilaran Private Motor Association, board of director of the PTA of Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School and chair of the credit committee of the Bohol Tri- Media Association.

 

In so short a time, Jun has established an image of credibility and affinity with his listeners. He is aware that he has giving information. “I have to double check the facts before reporting it. I see to it that is fair and square,” he says.

 A self-confessed workaholic, Jun vows to look for a lot more good stories to share to the Boholano listeners worldwide.

 

“I will always be a broadcaster at heart,” Jun says.

 

Did Jun ever suffer from burnout? He is covering the same hospital beats such gory and violent incidents. “No. I try to inject a fresh perspective in every story.”

 

Jun cites a bank security guard who was killed years ago and land fissures in Sierra-Bullones as one of his most memorable breaking news stories.

 

For the third time, Jun is awarded as “best reporter for special events” by the Association of Writers and Radio Announcers (Awra).

 

Maintaining many reports can only mean a punishing schedule. Jun researches, writes the stories, and reports live as possible while the news is happening.

 

A father of four, Jun says love for his work is what drives him, next, of course, to his family.

 

Unknown to many, Jun has helped hundreds of people as a reporter. He doesn’t adapt a "stone heart" when he reports the news, especially the poor fellowmen in the hospital (those who have no money to pay the excess hospital bills, no food to eat, no money to buy a medicine) who ask for help. “I am also affected. It’s always good to be human.”

 

Jun has always aimed to make a difference.  In some instances, while we were covering a dengue story at the Dr. Celestino Gallares Regional Memorial Hospital, an old woman approached Jun. She’s asking for help to buy medicines for her apo. Why Jun? She said: “Among nakit-an nga makatabang siya namo sa among kahimtang karun diri sa hospital (We see that he can help us in our needs).”

 

“It’s out of my job as a reporter pero as human being we need to help other people. I look for resources as possible to help them. I told them to go to dyRD’s Inyong Alagad for help or find help from our leaders,” he says.

 

When Jun was somewhere in Bilar for a coverage, an old woman came to hug him. Surprised, the woman told him, “ako to imong gitabangan Sir nga makagawas sa hospital kay walay ikabayad. Dako akong pasalamat nimo (It’s me whom you have helped when I was not able to pay my hospital bills. I am forever grateful to you).”

 

“It’s personal, walay labot sa akong job pero malipay ko makatabang basin ginagmay (It’s not part of my job, I am happy I can help)” he says.

 

That is how Jun put his heart on his news.

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Email leoudtohan@yahoo.com.

Bryan Gaviola: I want to marry the right woman

Wake-uppers:

Amanda Arles

Seen: Miss Panglao 2011 first runner-up Amanda Arles was spotted at SM Mall of Asia  last June 1 to audition for Miss Philippines World 2012. Miss World Philippines has already moved to TV5, the media partner of the pageant.

 

Seen: The Queen of Talk Show Kris Aquino visited Bohol for the second time. Kris was in Bohol last week to shoot an episode for Kris TV show on ABS-CBN. Her show says, “Tuloy-tuloy ang paglalakbay ni Kris para patunayang "Its more FUN in the Philippines"…

 

Scene: The 2nd Bohol Dolphin Festival was held last May 31 at CPG Sports Complex to raise awareness on protecting marine mammals and the environment. Spearheaded by Bohol Rescue Unit for Marine Mammals (BRUMM), a non-government organization engaged in research on large marine vertebrates (LAMAVE) project in Bohol, the festival included a parade, educational displays and activities and dolphin mural painting. Dolphins love freedom!

 

Seen: Aspiring musical sensation Sherwin “Paeng” Cabilan Rosco of Tubigon town has made it to the X-Factor Philippines. A franchise of the hit UK reality singing contest created by renowned judge Simon Cowell, the X-Factor Philippines will air on June 23 on ABS-CBN. Rosco was selected from the pre-screening done last year. There will be 80 hopefuls who will face the judges Pilita Corales, Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano and Charice Pempengco. X-Factor host is KC Concepcion.

 

Rosco

 

 

 

 

 

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Did you know that Atty. Bryan Olaso Gaviola, one of the gorgeous young lawyers in the province, wanted to become a Navy SEAL (Sea, Air, Land, and the SEALs are the U.S. Navy's most acclaimed special ops unit) and he, sigh, failed?

 

“I really wanted to become a soldier, but...”

Atty. Bryan Gaviola: ‘I’m single by choice.’

 

He ended up a lawyer, educated at Mindanao State University (AB Philosophy) and a teacher at University of Bohol.  

 

“I wanna help the oppressed, the persecuted, and the underdog, and the community in general in order to make the world a better place to live and make a living for myself at the same time,” said the young lawyer.

 

We see him all the time in Junior Chamber International (JCI)- Bohol Sandugo activities but we don’t really know much about Bryan. Just recently, Bryan spearheaded the 60^th Year Anniversary of JCI-Bohol, a leading global network of young active citizens whose mission is to provide development opportunities that empower young people to create positive change. 

 

At 29 (an Aries, born on March 30), Bryan is still single and available. Asked if he’s choosy, Bryan said, “No.” But he is searching. “I’m single by choice,” he added, “I want to marry the right woman, at the right time, and for the right reason. And it’s sad to belong to someone else when the right one comes along.”

 

Bryan stands 5’9”; and wears extra-large-size shirt, extra-large-size briefs and size-11 shoes.

 

More of Atty. Bryan Gaviola in this “He can’t invoke his right against self-incrimination":

 

Do you also get death threats like other lawyers?

“I haven’t had any death threats yet and I hope I never will (Laughs).”

 

Your daily schedule must be hectic. Describe a day in your life.

“In the morning I usually attend court hearings and in the afternoon I’m busy with clients and papers at the office, after office hours I deal with appointments, meetings, and teaching. Only then can I spend the rest of my day with friends.”

 

Atty. Bryan Gaviola finds time to travel (this time in France) for adventurous exploration, cultural musings, and wanderlust.

How long you have been practicing your profession?

“A little over two year but it feels like more because I was fortunate enough to be offered partnership with Atty. Jaime Jimenez shortly after passing the bar exam.”

 

How long you have been teaching at University of Bohol?

“Six years since 2005.” (The same school he graduated high school.-LPU)

 

How do you manage it, practicing your profession as a lawyer and at the same time teaching?

“I have requested our dean to schedule my subject after office house so there is no conflict. But it’s easier said than done. (Laughs)”

 

Don’t tell me that you bring work at home.

“I rarely bring work at home. But there are time when call of duty at the office requires it.” 

 

What makes you busy nowadays?  Probably with Junior Chamber International (JCI)- Bohol Sandugo?

“Yes. JCI takes up most of my free time.” 

 

As president, what are your plans for JCI-Bohol?

“Many. But the most ambitious is to finally set up our headquarters after so many years. Thanks to the Gallares family for graciously giving us a little space in one of their properties.”

 

What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?

“Drink Coffee.”

 

And the last thing you do before you go to sleep?

“Turn off the lights.”

 

How do you cope up with stress?

“I make it a point to catch up on sleep every weekend.”

 

How much water do you take per day?

“A lot. Because I sweat a lot.”

 

Do you drink wine or other hard drinks?  

“Only beer.”

 

Do you go to gym?
“No. But I play basketball a lot.”

 

What part of your body is your best asset?

“My ab or my nose. (Laughs)”

 

..with JCI-Bohol family

What’s your favorite attire in bed?

“Boxers.” 

 

How do you deal with your temper?

“I make it a point not to lose my temper when things get out of control. It just worsens the situation.”

 

What is your favorite hideaway?

“My room. I just watch DVDs all night.”

 

What part of a woman’s body do you notice first?

“The face..specifically the eyes.”

 

What kind of women turns you on?

“Independent women.”

 

What kind of women turns you off?

“Flirty girls turn me off. And women who wear a lot of make-up.”

 

How’s your love life?

“Hmmmm it’s complicated.”

 

Sex life?

“Orgasmic! (Laughs)”

 

How do you deal with temptation?

“I just think ahead where it would lead me if I give in.”

 

How do you deal with, uhm, indecent proposals?

“Decently!”

 

Using only body language, how would you make a woman know that you admire her?

“I would stare at her a lot.”

 

Kris Aquino will feature Bohol on her KrisTV show next week. Credit: KrisTV

 

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

 

All things bright and beautiful for new Anyag

Wake-uppers:

 

Scene: Despite wishes that a female would finally be crowned "American Idol" after five years of male domination, Jessica Sanchez came in second place when Phillip Phillips was pronounced the winner. Jessica Sanchez said, "I was really fighting for the girls in this round. the only reason i wanted to win was because i want to break the whole thing with the guys winning."

 

Soy, Queen for the nth time

Scene: Bohol’s Queen of Tourism Rose Soy is the Queen of Santacruzan 2012. Santacruzan is a religious parade that re-enacts the finding of the cross of St. Helena in Cavalry 300 years after death of Jesus Christ. 

 

This year’s Santacruzan organized by the Rotary Club of Tagbilaran had military men who were assigned to hand-carry the bamboo arches decked with color-themed flowers.

 

During the procession, there were Methuselah (the oldest person whose age is mentioned in the Hebrew Bible. He reminds people that all that glitters may end up like dust) and little angels.

 

It was also a harvest of blooms and beautiful ladies as they portrayed Reyna Mora (represents the religion before Christianity or she is a female Muslim), Reyna Fe (symbolizes virtue of faith and she carries a cross), Reyna Esperanza (symbolizes virtue of hope and she carries an anchor), Reyna Esther (she carries a scepter. She represents the biblical Jewish who saved her countrymen), Veronica (the woman who wiped the face of Jesus. She carries bandana with the imprinted face of Jesus), Tres Marias (Mary of Magdala, she carries a bottle of perfume. Mary Mother of Christ, she carries a handkerchief. Mary Mother of James, she carries a bottle of oil), girl scouts who were the Ave Maria (8 girls each one carrying a letter to spell out AVE MARIA), Rosa Mystica (she carries a bouquet of roses), Queen of Flowers (she carries a bouquet of flowers) and Reyna Elena (the legendary founder of the Holy Cross. She carries a small cross and escorted by her son, Constantine) portrayed by Miss Bohol International 2012 Mary Ebone Calimbayan Cimafranca.

 

Some Rotarians who were present during the parade were City councilor Butchie Zamora, Joy Suarez, Louella Bantol, Alex Bongawan, absent were Rotarians Nila Montero and Raul Gatal.

 

Seen: Award-winning Boholano director Maryo J. de los Reyes is in Bohol.

 

Scene:  Looks like love is in the air in Bohol these days.  Some balikbayans who attended the recently concluded Tigum Bol-anon sa Tibuok Kalibutan (TBTK) 2012 are deciding to take the plunge and get engaged. Case in point: TBTK president Betty Veloso-Garcia‘s daughter, Maribeth, is now engaged to boyfriend Rob.  “They have been dating for years now. They are engaged and planning a trip down the aisle. He popped the question last week at Gerarda’s during the family gathering,” said the high-profile VRS.  “Na-kilig ang mga witness when Rob gave the engagement ring,” added VRS.

 

Scene:  The next time there is a big event in town, this special occasion designate (SOD) should know how to behave in public. Case in point: The high-ranking official (HRO) asked SOD to prepare a banquet for the many guests. After half an hour, HRO came back with the guests and to his surprise the food was all gone! “The HRO got blush because the visitors didn’t eat that afternoon because HRO threw a banquet for them,” said the roving VRS. “HRO found out that SOD ordered the men to clean the tables and to bring the foods, er, bring house,” added VRS.

 

Seen: Fiel Angeli Araoarao-Gabin is spotted in LA the other day with her daughter AJ Wincielo Johanna visiting the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Fiel accompanied Cielo who is a member of the Philippine team to the International Regions Math League competition in Las Vegas, USA. Likewise, also spotted in London is Trisha Chatto.

 

Scene: Music-lovers filled the venue last week to watch 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. Yes, Basil did sing Ngayon at Kailan Man, Kastilyong Buhangin, Kung Akoy's Iiwan Mo, Siya na Ba, Nais Ko, Tuwing Umuulan at Kapiling Ka, Hindi Kita Malilimutan, et al. As I’ve been saying, there’s nothing more relaxing and more soothing than listening to old familiar love songs that bring you back to specific periods in your past, evoking memories that you never tire of recalling and reliving. Thanks Bohol Sandugo Foundation, Inc. and K & N Productions!

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Evardo

She used to be just a name as far as beauty-watchers were concerned, a member of the town’s Lungsuranon Performing Arts Ensemble (LUPAE), until she joined as one of the candidates of  Anyag sa Tubigon 2012, the most highly produced and the most-expensive production (with an estimated budget of Php 700-800k) beauty pageant in Bohol.

 

Mariecris Batula Evardo has put a face to the name and what a very beautiful face it is, matched by a beautiful mind and a beautiful body. Will Mariecris the third Anyag to win Miss Bohol Sandugo in a row?

 

Mariecris is now carrying the customized Anyag crown donated by Manila Vice-Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno" Domagoso. It is worth Php 60k designed by a famous Cebuano jeweler Alpio Saban, (who also designed the crown for the Queen of Cebu World).

 

“We want to show to other towns what honest to goodness showmanship and production is all about,” said Raymond Delgado, erstwhile Tubigon’s Queen of All Media.

 

“The program was swift and enjoyable,” said Mr. Cebu 2009 Kris Nimrod Cabigas on his Facebook who hosted the event with Bb. Pilipinas- World 2006 Anna Maris Igpit. “I had a great time hosting Anyag sa Tubigon.”

 

A few days after she was crowned at glittering ceremonies at the Tubigon Cultural Center last May 13 with Star Magic’s Matteo Guidicelli and Rep. Cynthia Villar as special guests, Bared tried to pick this year’s Anyag’s brain by asking her some questions.

 

Mariecris said that she could make Tubigon a better place to live in by segregating waste, cleaning the environment and planting trees those are just simple yet smartest things in order to save our mother earth. It is one to show the best that we could in providing measures for the next generation.

 

What is the essence of being an  Anyag sa Tubigon? “An Anyag is not just a title but being one entails a lot of responsibilities and the biggest of all is being an ambassadress of goodwill. A woman who definitely leaves a mark to everyone---a woman with dignity, pride and honor!”

 

A Capricon (Dec. 25, 1990), Mariecris stands 5’3”, weighs 110 lbs., measures 32-25-36, and wears small-sized shirts and 9-inch shoes.

 

What are your winning traits?
“I think, it’s all about in me with confidence, humility and faith. Of course, we should also be prepared in everything that we do.”

Do you have a boyfriend?

“Yes!”

If you were to choose between your boyfriend and Anyag, which would you choose?

Anyag 2012 Committee

“I will choose them both since I have a supportive boyfriend and why should I chose one when I can have both.”

As Anyag Queen, what qualities of the Tubignons youth would you highlight?
“Being hospitable, hardworking yet gentle.”

How would you convince people abroad that it’s more fun in Bohol?
“It’s more fun in the Philippines because of the good weather we have plus the beautiful beaches and warm welcoming faces of the Boholanos. It’s more fun in Bohol because of the Boholanos innate faith in God. So whatever happens, God is still in full control.”

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

“We know that we are all created equal and have the right to be respected but I'm against on it because beauty contest are intended for women only.”

If that’s the case, how would you prove that you are more female than transgender?
“I'm not just a woman in nature but the most important thing that makes me differ from them is that I see to it that I live in accordance to god's will and that's what makes me respected wherever I go.”

Who is your role model and why?
“Mother Teresa. She's definitely a woman who exemplified a child like faith and matured obedience to God's will.”

Young people today are liberated and adventurous, willing to try everything. What's your stand on pre-marital sex?
“As a Filipina Catholic, I still believe in the sanctity of marriage. I always value and preserve the purity of my life and my soul.”

 

Why do you think education is important?
“Education is important because it equips us with all that we need in order to make our dreams come true, it open doors with brilliant career opportunities, it builds in every individual the confidence to face life and accept failure.”

 

If you were somebody else, who would you like to be and why?
“I always bow down my head to the flexibility, perseverance and understanding of my father. He is my inspiration and a good example to me. He is man with essence, pride and full of love.”

What are your beauty secrets?

“Enough rest, food and exercise and most of all adequate time with God.”

If you were to change something in yourself, what would it be?
“I wouldn't change anything because God created me for a purpose and I'm contended for who and what I am.”

 

Describe yourself in three words.
“Confident, bubbly and friendly.”

 

What is your favorite quote?
“There's nothing impossible for those who never give up.”

 

How's your love life?
“We're going strong. Thank God!”

 

What do you find sexy in a man?
“Sense of humor.”

 

And what turns you off?
“An irresponsible man.”

***

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

The sexy twin hunks of TBTK

Wake-uppers:

Birthday celebrator Rep. Erico Aumentado with wife Greenie, children and grandchildren. Credit: Fatima Mapesos

 Scene:  Rep. Erico Boyles Aumentado celebrated his 72^nd birthday last Friday, May 18, in Ubay town. The second district solon thanked his family and friends for organizing a birthday bash for him. Spotted were Mayors Eutiquio Bernales, Tom Gonzaga, Ronald Lowell Tirol and barangay captains. Special guests were Representatives Cynthia Villar and Mitos Magsaysay. On hand to help Erico entertained their friends was his wife Greenie.  The birthday bash was “a celebration of 72 years of God-given life and 46 years of highly productive public service.”

 

Anyag sa Tubigon 2012 and her Royal Court: (l-r) Anyag 4th Runner-Up Carla Stephany Simporios, Anyag 2nd Runner-Up Claire Arlene Podador, Anyag sa Tubigon 2012 Mariecris Evardo, Anyag 1st Runner-Up Febby Grace Nalzaro, and Anyag 3rd Runner-Up Karla Korina Rodriguez. Credit: Anyag FanPage

Cimafranca

Scene: Mariecris Evardo, a member of the Lungsuranon Performance Arts Ensemble (LUPAE), won the

Anyag sa Tubigon 2012. Raymund Delgado, erstwhile Tubigon’s Queen of All Media said, “So wonderful batch of Anyag girls whom I had a chance to mentor. Girls, always remember that the journey doesn't end in winning the crown. Real crowns are the things which we are made of.”

 

Scene: A trainer/handler cried foul when the organizers of a popular beauty pageant in town allegedly harassed him when he was not allowed to enter the venue on the apparent copycat issue. “He was barred from being the handler of a candidate who was a crowd favorite who did not make it to the final five,” shared VRS.

 

Scene: Beauty watchers were dismayed to see mediocre trophies awarded to the winners of a prestigious beauty pageant. “Minus jud ang trophies wala nabagay sa pageant. If not of the beautiful girls, it looked like it was another basketball tournament in town. It was not of international taste,” said the roving beauty pageant VRS. 

 

Scene: Miss Teen Tagbilaran 2012 Mary Ebone Calimbayan Cimafranca won the Miss Bohol International 2012 title. She also bagged the Darling of the Crowd, Best in Swimsuit, Best in Interview and Best in Gown.

 

Seen: Miss CONBUSAC 2011 Tessie Sumampong La Mourea of Washington and Miss CONBUSAC Tourism 2011 Lorraine Ancog Galang were spotted at The Buzz.  “They’re here for the TBTK 2012,” said a socialite VRS. “They are stunning! Tessie is a wow,” added VRS. Also spotted in Tagbi was Gisela May “Jiji” Apalisok. The Texas-based Chic Geek, who was a lifestyle editor in a local newspaper, is here for a vacation.

Miss CONBUSAC 2011 Tessie Sumampong La Mourea and Miss CONBUSAC Tourism 2011 Lorraine Ancog Galang Credit: Mikey Gatal

 

***

So what is sexy to Marlon and Marvin Penales Olano, the identical twin hunks from Los Angeles, California, who came here for the Tigum Bol-anon sa Tibuok Kalibutan (TBTK) who are making women — and other creatures besides — swoon?

 

“I go to the gym and plays ball and physically fit,” says Marvin. “I feel sexy when I go to bed naked or only in my boxers.”

 

Marvin and Marlon Penales Olano: The twin hunks of TBTK Credit: Mikey Gatal

“To me,” says Marlon, “I feel sexy when coming out from the shower then I shave my beard wearing only a white towel.”

 

Born and raised in LA to Boholano parents Jun and Lilia Olano (nee Penales), the twin hunks were the cynosure during the Mrs. Bohol International 2012 held last week. While they were escorting the queens up and down the stage, all eyes were on them not to miss a single thing about them. Marlon escorted Elizabeth Pizarras-Ramirez, Mrs. Bohol International 2012.

 

 “They got that baby face, charming sex appeal and sizzling body that women have been dreaming about,” says a fan of the twin hunks during the pageant night.

 

 “I met the twin hunks in some gatherings of Boholanos in LA,” says the US-based Boholano socialite Mikey Gatal (who owns the Mikeygatal.com). The hunks accompanied Mikey last week in Ilijan, Ubay for Mikey’s charity event.

 

Adds Mikey: “They are athletic, nature lovers and romantic. Everything about them is impressive, logical and orderly.” Because everything Marvin does, Marlon does just as well. And vice versa - although they insist there's no rivalry.

 

And how did they lose “it”? “When I was 16 to an older woman,” confesses Marvin. “When I was 20 to an older woman,” says Marlon. .

 

And, er, who's luckier with the ladies? Their parents are worried right now because they found love here.  Marlon is leaving early for Manila to meet his dream girl and Marvin is staying in Cebu for five days to meet his girl.

 

For the record, they're both currently single. And although they enjoy bickering about who looks more like singer-writer Bruno Mars, they never argue.

 

Both Capricorn (Dec. 31, 1987), they are really identical- same height (5’11”); Marvin weighs 192 lbs and Marlon weighs 195 lbs; they both wear large-size boxer briefs and shirts, and size-12 shoes for Marlon and size-13 shoes for Marvin.

 

Let’s proceed with a little “sexy talk.”

 

Beach buddies

Sexiest song

Marlon: Pop.

Marvin: R&B.

 

Sexiest book

Marlon: Culinary books because I like to cook.

Marvin: Any book.

 

Sexiest magazine

Marlon: Slam magazine.

Marvin: Sports Illustrated.

 

Sexiest woman's face

Marlon: Lovey Poe.

Marvin: Shania Magdangal.

 

Sexiest clothes 

Marlon: Formal clothes attending diner.

Marvin: Casual clothes.

 

Sexiest perfume

Marlon: Lacoste.

Marvin: Polo Sport.

 

Sexiest food

Marlon: I am vegetarian and I like more fruits.

Marvin: Anything with meat.

 

Sexiest time of day

Marlon: When I wake up in the morning I feel sexy.

Marvin: Night time is sexy for me.

 

Sexiest part of the house

Malron: Kitchen.

Marvin: My gym room.

 

Sexiest scene he has seen in a movie

Marlon: Mission Impossible Tom Cruise crawling on the wall, I feel like I can do that too.

Marvin: My Neighbor's Wife, the kitchen scene.

 

Sexiest TV show

Marlon: Sports games, basketball, water sports and tennis.

Marvin: Sports games especially basketball, tennis and soccer.

 

Sexiest fantasy

Marlon: A shirtless master chef with sexy assistants.

Marvin: When I wake up in an island and served by all beautiful women.

 

Sexiest thing he has done for a girl

Marlon: I surprised a girl to have a dinner date in an expensive restaurant and sent her flowers.

Marvin: We went outdoor bungee jumping together and she loves it.

 

 

***

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