Early favorites of Sikatuna 2013 candidates

Wake-uppers:
Seen: Jose F. Lacaba is the U.P. Gawad Plaridel Awardee for 2013.

Scene: Tomorrow, July 1, is the first day of office of all elected officials. In Tagbilaran City, it is also a non-working special public holiday as Tagbilaran celebrates its 47th charter day. Blogger Edik Dolotina posted on Facebook: May you remember why you are elected into public office.
Scene:  Island City Mall's "Voices of Champions" winners: Alma Mida Golosino (champion), Mecerdita Quiachon (first runner-up) and Tom Cesar Vergara (second runner-up).
 
Scene: A tarsier was found at the Forbes Park in Makati and died a day before it was going to be flown home. Tarsiers, which are not endemic to Luzon, was smuggled out of Bohol or in the provinces of Samar, Leyte, and also in Eastern Mindanao. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has identified the Philippine tarsier as a near-threatened species, with its population decreasing rapidly. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (DENR-PAWB) said that keeping wildlife is illegal, except among registered breeders and wildlife farms. It added that keeping tarsiers as pets is highly unadvisable because tarsiers are highly strung and sensitive.
 
Scene: PIA-Bohol planted a total of 93 indigenous trees including the all-time-favorite saguimsim, tugas and secondary growth forest trees in time for the Arbor Day, June 25.

Courtesy: Emerson Pinos

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Long before the current male beauty pageants flooded the market, in the '80s-90's there was a male beauty pageant in Bohol— the Ginoong Filipinas-Bohol— franchised and organized by fashion diva Maximiel Tallo, with hot looking men, some of whom were from buena familia.

The search produced winners who became models and product endorsers. However, in a sudden turned of events, the  Ginoong Filipinas- Bohol had its last show in 1997 which featured the collection of Cebu-based designer Protacio.

Courtesy: Emerson Pinos

"I can't remember who won the title," revealed VRS.

But what some people probably don’t know is that the Capitol official photographer Raymund Buslon was a candidate of Ginoong Filipinas-Bohol in 1997 and even declared second runner-up  and a special awardee.

"We all know that Raymund is not the type of a person who like that thing but he was there.  His mestizo looks were uncoventional but unarguably gorgeous that made him a runner-up," added VRS.

Courtesy: Emerson Pinos

After 16 years, a new male pageant is born. This time, it is called Sikatuna: Rajah sa Bohol (is it the answer to Hari ng Negros, a popular male pageant in the country which started in 2003 as Ginoong Canlaon, a city in Oriental Negros?)

But who's this Sikatuna who was a rajah (king) in Bohol?

History has it that Sikatuna (real name was "Katuna" but "Si" was added to his name as this is a nominative marker for a Filipino) was a datu or lord in Bohol, who made a blood compact and allianced with the Spanish conquistador, Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. It's the same Sikatuna in The Order of Sikatuna, a national order of diplomatic merit of the Philippines. It is conferred upon individuals who have rendered exceptional and meritorious services to the Philippines.

The Sikatuna: Rajah sa Bohol commitee says: In celebration of this year’s 25th Sandugo Festival, the Junior Chamber International (JCI) - Boholana Kisses will showcase the first-ever SIKATUNA: Rajah sa Bohol – the quest for the most stunning young Boholano that truly represents the personality and physical attributes of Rajah Sikatuna. This activity plays a very significant factor in commemorating our grassroots who has been a big role in putting Bohol into the world map. This activity aims to preserve its importance and also promotes local tourism.

Buslon. Courtesy: Emerson Pinos

The search is over and fifteen (15) of the hottest men in the province will compete for the title.

The candidate from Getafe is an early frontrunner, a big favorite for the title especially because of his impressive pageant portfolio.

Twenty-year-old Danilo Torcendes, who stands 5'11, already represented his town in ICM modeling contests and fashion shows and attempted to become a youth ambassador in Mister and Miss Teen Bohol 2010 (which was revived last year) contest. He only landed until the top 12, but the experience proved to be invaluable.

Other early favorites (with 500+ Facebook likes) for Sikatuna are Neil Namuag  of Albur and Jericho Castro of Tagbilaran City.

The talent night is on July 19 at the Tagbilaran Tourist Port, while the grand coronation is on July 26, 7 p.m. at the Bohol Cultural Center. For tickets and inquiries, please call +639-0844-58604.

Teleserye lines we can't forget

If there are unforgettable movie lines, there are teleserye lines that are memorable. Remember the classic Pinoy movie lines, “You’re nothing but a second-rate trying hard copy cat!” (Cherie Gil in Bituing Walang Ningning) and “Walang himala!  Tayo ang gumawa ng himala!” (Nora Aunor in Himala)? I'm sure fans out there have their favorite catchy lines or memorable quotes from their favorite teleserye or soap opera.

In Be Careful with my Heart, a daytime television drama which is top billed by Jodi Sta. Maria, the simple, sweet and idealistic Maya and Richard Yap a.k.a. Sir Chief, some memorable lines are:

Kung sa tingin mo naman walang nagbibigay ng love sa iyo, huwag na huwag mong kakalimutan si God. Love na love ka nun.
 
Ang mga problema ay hindi hadlang sa pag-abot ng mga pangarap, ito ay mga gabay lamang.
 
Ang tunay na sekreto sa tagumpay ay pagsisikap at patuloy na pagbangon sa bawat pagkakamali.
 
Ang mga taong agad sumusuko ay hindi nanalo, ang mga taong laging panalo ay hindi kailanman sumusuko.

Kung lahat ng makakaya mo ay iyong ibinibigay, tagumpay mo ay walang kapantay.
 
Hindi mahalaga kung gaano ka katagal nabuhay, ang mahalaga ay kung paano ka nabuhay.

Now, on (controversial) My Husband's Lover, a primetime drama series on GMA 7 starring Carla Abellana, Dennis Trillo and new kapuso star Tom Rodriguez, the memorable lines are:

Naawa ako sa iyo, hindi mo matanggap ang sarili mo. – David
 
Hoy..ang lalaki ng katawan ninyo eh ang lalandi ninyo. Lumayas nga kayo rito. Kitang-kita ko ang kulay ng mga matris ninyo!- Roi Vinzon to the machong paminta na naglalambingan sa gym.
 
He is too barbaric kaya naging siyoke ang anak niya.- Roi Vinzon to Kuh Ledesma
 
Hindi ako perpektong lalaki, Lally...Kaya tulungan mo ako na maging deserving sa pagmamahal mo. - Tom Rodriquez to Carla Abellana
 
May iba't ibang klaseng bading. May nagdadamit pambabae, may parlorlista, may mahinhin kumilos pero nakadamit panglalaki pa rin. At tayo na hindi mo talaga mahahalata sa pananamit at hitsura. - Victor Basa to Tom Rodriquez

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

What!?! No Miss Tubigon in Miss Bohol Sandugo 2013?

Surprise!! Surprise!! You don't have to grab your eyes while reading this corner. Yes, this is VRS or Very Reliable Source which will chronicle people, places and events—and gossip!

My two-week "absence" in the gossip world was full of many surprises– not all of them pleasant, judging from the responses of some of who's who and luminaries and those in the social media.
Cases in point:

Rex Pilayre Bangalao didn't make it in the Mister International Philippines 2013 which was held last Friday, June 21, at the Flying V Arena in San Juan, Manila.

"Too bad he didn't place," said the socialite VRS. "Rex doesn't look mature and masculine compared to other contestants who look experienced and well-prepared. He has next time."
"It's not just about winning.  It's about taking part," said another VRS.  "Being one of the candidates in Mister International Philippines is already a privilege. It means that our men in Bohol have place in the male beauty pageant."

Rex Bangalao Courtesy: Mister International 

Philippines

Mr. Teen Bohol 2013 Adryan Mila managed to be in the top 12 of the Mr. and Ms. Philippine Youth 2013 which was held recently at Philippine International Convention Center. 

"Some of our Boholano supporters said that the pageant was lutong macao when Mila was only placed top 12," said the veteran pageant watcher VRS. "They said Mila's answer was better than other contestants and blah blah blah, but the Q and A portion was just part of the whole presentation. The judges were looking for the total package."

But the night truly belonged to a contestant from Cebu.

Model Alberto Rodulfo "Ar" dela Serna was declared Mr Generation East 2013 grand winner, Sta. Lucia Generation East Model Search. A trivia: Dela Serna was adjudged first runner-up in Mr Philippine Youth in 2002. In Nov. 2012, he replaced the dethroned Mr. Philippine Youth 2012 Leo Angeles Flores of Parañaque.

Adryan Mila Contributed Photo

Sta. Lucia Mall’s Generation East — The Model Search is now on its 14th year of discovering upcoming models and stars. It has produced showbiz personalities, beauty queens and models like Angel Locsin, Jeanne Harn, Teresa Paron, Jasmin Chua, Jennifer Lee and Arci Muñoz, Ron Morales, John Medina, Acis Austria, Edison Puruganan, Patrick Moore, James Versoza, Fianca Cruz and Rye Burgos.

"I prayed to God to let me walk properly, to let me bring myself well, and to give me the chance to speak. But He gave me more than what I asked (for)... thank you for all the people who supported me unconditionally, this is all for us ," Dela Serna posted on Facebook.

Ar's formula? "The key to success is to keep growing in all areas of life - mental, emotional, spiritual, social, as well as physical."

Ar walks the talk. And you can't help sit up and notice.

***
Shock waves rippled through the business industry last June 12 (also his youngest son's birthday) as news surfaced that businessman and public servant Ben Udtohan had died. “Unbelievably sad news. A fine man,” tweeted some friends. Nong Ben loved movies. In fact, he supported movies Nandito Ako Nagmamahal Sa 'Yo (2009) and Amigo (2010) which were done in Bohol. I heard BJ, who is Cogon's number 1 barangay kagawad, is running for barangay chairman this October 2013 elections, if, that is a big, there is an elections.

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Yes, there’s an exclamation point(!) and  a question mark (?) in today’s headline.

Ar dela Serna Contributed Photo

You read it right: There is no representative from Tubigon for the Miss Bohol Sandugo 2013.

Like most everybody, I’m sure your initial, incredulous reaction is, “What? No Miss Tubigon?”

After straight three years of joining Miss Bohol Sandugo (Tubigon beauties Amir Sol won the title in 2010 and Farrah Mian Abarquez in 2011), Tubigon's  entry is missing— and they blamed it to the Anyag sa Tubigon 2013 Clarlaine Falcon Radoc whose busy schedule in Cebu failed to appear during the screening.

"You're wrong, there was no mass resignation  at the Tubigon Tourism Office who manages the A List Training for Anyag beauties," revealed the roving and beauty watcher VRS. "Not yet, they are in good hands with the new town executive. "

Anyag committee had had to send  Anyag sa Tubigon 2013 Clarlaine Falcon Radoc (sister of Anyag 2008 Clarice Elaine Radoc) to Miss Bohol Sandugo.

"Radoc is studying in Cebu and she was not able to attend the screening because of the bad weather," explained VRS. "In fairness to the Anyag committee, they asked the Miss Bohol Sandugo organizers to have a special screening for Radoc but the organizers politely declined their request. It would be unfair to other girls who came from other towns to attend the screening."

The past and present winners of Anyag sa Tubigon (Maanyag nga Tubignon, Dalaygon!): (l-r) Clarice Elaine Radoc (2008), Amir Sol (2009), Farrah Faye Mian (2010), Clarlaine Radoc (2013), Lori Geisha Cabrera (2011) and Mariecris Evardo (2012). Courtesy: Anyag Fanpage

But it is not that easy. Beauty is  a serious business in Tubigon just like in Venezuela where Tubigon is the only town in Bohol which gives proper training for the girls who will represent the town.
"You wonder that all of a sudden there is no one girl to represent their town?" asked VRS.

VRS also said that there is a chance that the Anyag committee, to put it mildly, “saddened” by last year's results that Mariecris Evardo was just first-runner up to Miss Jagna Idy Cagas. "It can be also that the Anyag committee members find out that Anyag has no chance of winning this year."

By coincidence, I bumped into Dennis Balbero, one of the Anyag trainors at the Island City Mall last week. I told him about what I know and I asked him pointblank: True or not?

“It’s true!”

No further comment.

Anyway, there are 18 candidates who will vie for this year's Miss Bohol Sandugo. The swimsuit competition is on July 13 at the Miravilla Resort, the talent competition is on July 17 at the Tagbilaran Tourist Port, and the pageant and coronation night is on July 20 at the Bohol Cultural Center.

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

This is the Bared goodbye.

I have an announcement to make: Bared, your only one top source of news and intrigue about personalities and sundry from Bohol and  beyond, is ending and readers will watch out for the "Very Reliable Source" brand.

Bared has tried to be your eyes and ears in pursuit of (reliable) gossips and the stories that beg to be told for almost five years.

After many years of covering the entertainment world thru Bared, I’ve been fortunate enough to  cover interesting people, places and events including Hollywood; Bared was the only gossip column from Philippines to cover the Oscars 2013. 

When I posted on Facebook this week about the end of Bared, a number of readers (who have developed an unhealthy addiction to Bared) have expressed distress about the column ending. There are also people who may not mourn the column's passing (you know who you are). But, seriously, we're into it. Don't worry, you'll be in good hands with a new gossip column after this (Believe me!).

For now, I'll just say gracias por todo... thank you to every loyal reader that I valued so much (I was convinced that any one of you could have written the gossip yourself!) Your "brutality," friendliness and intelligence always floored me (literally and figuratively!).

My massive thank you to Sir Peter, the Chronicle staff: Intoy, Charmo, Maricel, (the two) Fe, Etching, Amy, et al and ace reporters who helped me the dish.

And muchas gracias to all very reliable sources, snitches, tipsters, snoops and spywitnesses. You know who you are. You are what has made Bared such a vibrant and colorful, smart and interesting part of our Sunday life.

The end of Bared: Chronicle gossip columnist Leo P. Udtohan (at the Oscars 2013) 

is saying goodbye (for a while).

Now that it’s all over...from your gossip columnist, goodbye from Tagbilaran City.

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

Loboc Riverwatch earns 2013 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence

Wake-uppers:

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

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

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

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

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

Courtesy: Tripadvisor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And the winners and losers are...

Martin Slisans Courtesy: Facebook

Wake-upper:
Scene: Martin Slisans, a Latvian national swims from Bohol to Cebu to promote RP tourism.

"This is a kind of meditation for myself and the most important thing is to promote the Philippines," said Slisans.

Slisans, 36, started swimming at around 1 a.m. from Catagbacan, Loon and reached Argao, Cebu at around 2 p.m. last Saturday, May 18. The long distance swimming was almost 30 kilometers.
Slisans visited the Philippines in 2009 and settled in Moalboal after falling in love with the beautiful countryside town.

In 2010, he swam 22 kilometers from Libertad, Negros Oriental to Moalboal.

 

Long distance swimming from Bohol to Cebu Photo: Leo Udtohan

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From Dr. Abe Lim: I congratulate Kag. Baba Yap, the next mayor of Tagbilaran for a job well done. The election campaign offered me another view of Tagbilaran. I urge my friends and followers to support Mayor Baba's plans and services to the people of Tagbilaran."I fought a good fight. I finished the race. I keep my faith." May God bless us all.
 
From Atty. Dodong Gonzaga:  The people of Tagbilaran have spoken by casting their votes yesterday. I wish to express my heartfelt thanks to my followers, leaders, slate, supporters and to those who believe in my cause. God may have other plans for me in serving my fellow Tagbilaranons. Congratulations to Vice- mayor Jose Antonio Veloso, Kag Alberta Betty Co Torralba and Atty Aleckoy Lim for the victory.

From 2nd District Congressman-elect Erico Aristotle Aumentado: First of all I thank the Lord for the graces He gave to me and my family. I thank everyone for all of your undying support and for putting your trust by casting your votes on me yesterday. I appreciate all efforts contributed for the success of this new journey I now face. This venture I choose is also my dream to follow my father’s footsteps and continue his legacy. And to Aumentado family, thank you for standing by me all this time, the same way how you stood by Papa Erico. Mabuhi ang Segundo Distrito!

From Tagbilaran City Mayor-elect John Geesnell "Baba" Yap: My profound and heartfelt sense of gratitude to everyone! Your trust and confidence in my leadership will be my undying zeal and commitment to serve Tagbilaran to the best of my ability. Together, we can make our dreams come true! Together, we can make our beloved city great and prosperous! Thank you very much! I am enthusiastic that this triumph will be the catalyst of change in governance that will ensure that all the basic services will be delivered to each and every citizen! Public office is not only of public trust, it is foremost of PUBLIC SERVICE! To all Tagbilaranons, with confidence I can say; "The best has just begun!" Thank you very much and may God bless us all!

From Tagbilaran City Vice-Mayor- elect Jose Antonio Veloso:The elections have ended peacefully and the people made their choices. As a saying goes, "Vox populi, Vox dei". The voice of the people, is the voice of God. I have been so much blessed when i was put back as Vice-Mayor of the City of Tagbilaran. My dear brothers and sisters in Tagbilaran, thank you for the trust you have given me. Kini ang inyong amigo TOTO VELOSO.

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Thank heavens that Mrs. Peregrina "Greenie" Cabagnot-Aumentado's 72nd birthday party cum Aris Aumentado's victory party last Thursday, May 16, at the Bohol Tropics, went smoothly and emotionally.

Greenie Aumentado

"With all combined efforts, it was a huge success! Maam felt so happy on her natal day because she never expected to be given attention," revealed Fatima Mapesos, former staff of the late Rep. Erico Aumentado, who emceed the program. " As per her speech, she was truly touched! We all began to feel emotional when she cried. Her birthday was another memorable memory to be treasured in the years to come."

As the guests (a mix of politicians and businessmen) shared a hearty meal, Aris thanked his supporters and well-wishers. Two days after he was officially proclaimed by the provincial board of canvassers (headed by lawyer Lionel Marco Castillano), he had already thanked his supporters on Facebook.

"I dream to follow my father’s footsteps and to continue his legacy," said Aris.

His wife, Maria Vanessa "VanVan" (nee Cadorna), is 2001 Miss Bohol Sandugo. VanVan met Aris when she crowned the 2002 Miss Bohol Sandugo (Cherry Mae Bacarro of Dimiao) with then Gov. Erico Aumentado and First Lady Peregrina Aumentado. Little did she know that Aris would become her hubby the following year.

2nd Congressman-elect Aris Aumentado with PBOC

The made-in-heaven romance led to the altar. Now, Aris and VanVan are parents of two boys, Erico Vann Lawrence and Erico Vann Lance, and more are sure to come…maybe after the elections?
Aris can enlist VanVan as his “secret weapon” like politicians with beautiful wives usually do, but he’d rather not because VanVan is so shy and so private. (She is like the tukbihon or  makahiya plant that slowly closes at the slightest touch.)

Jiselle Rae Aumentado Villamor also posted on Facebook: The victory of Congressman-elect Erico Aris Aumentado is not ours alone, the Aumentado family, but of the people in the second district of Bohol. Our patriarch, the late Cong. Erico Boyles Aumentado, had led an honorable path and had rendered a remarkable service. A new and greater challenge we face: to continue to live the ideals of a humble yet destined to be great Boholano. Congressman-elect Aris shall follow the exemplary trail the father of Bohol had set. Thank you all for the untiring support and prayers. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you so much for the trust. Again, we gain victory, us- the family, and you-Boholano people, our extended family since time immemorial. Daghan kaayong salamat! Basta Aumentado, segundo distrito padayon sa pag umento! Mabuhi ang Bohol!

Back to Maam Greenie, she doesn’t look 72. Nobody revealed what the secret behind her youthful look. (Fatima spilled the secret that Maam Greenie shuns worries! She refuses to be weighed down by problems. Instead, she keeps a pleasant disposition.)

The 2013 elections again validated Aumentado's power and might in the second district of Bohol.
As they said, the people have spoken. We pray that there's no more time for bitterness.

Here’s the (official) list of winners and losers ("showbiz"-connected and lovers of the arts and culture):

Congressmen: Rene Relampagos (first district), Aris Aumentado (second district) and Art Yap (uncontested, third district)
Governor: Edgar Chatto
Vice Governor: Conching Lim

Reelected Gov. Edgar Chatto

Board Members: Yul Lopez, Benjie Arcamo, Abel Damaerio (first disrict), Jaja Jumamoy, Gerry Garcia and Tommy Abapo (second district), Dioning Balite, Elpidio Jala, Godofreda Tirol, Boy Imboy (third district).

Mayors: Marlon Amila (Tubigon), Nila Montero (Panglao), Sample Tirol (Buenavista), Baba Yap (Tagbilaran City), NiÑo Rey Boniel (Bien Unido), Marnilou Ayuban (uncontested, Alicia), Sulpicio Yu, Jr (Calape), Moloy Apat (Dagohoy), Tita Gallentes (Garcia Hernandez), Roygie Jumamoy (Inabanga), Fortunato Abrenilla (Jagna), Casoy Camacho (Jetafe), Rina Salazar (uncontested, Lila), May Imboy (Loay), Lloyd Peter Lopez (Loon), Leoncio Evasco, Jr. (Maribojoc), Tessie Boyboy (Pres. Carlos P. Garcia Island) and Judith Cajes (Trinidad).

Balilihan Vice-Mayor-elect Pureza Chatto hugs her hubby re-elected Gov. Chatto

Vice-Mayors: Pureza Chatto (Balilihan), Pedro Budiongan, Jr (Carmen), Iven Lim (Cortes), Lulu Bongalos (Dauis), Wilson Pajo (Pilar) and Pedro Fuertes (Panglao).

Councilors: Ondo Montero (Panglao), Ariel Lungay (Catigbian), Jono Jumamoy (Inabanga), Rochelle Brigitte Imboy (Loay), Crispina Vergara (Mabini), Allan Tinaja (San Isidro) and Adam Jala, Oscar Glovasa, Jojo Bompat and Aleckoy Lim (Tagbilaran City).

Congratulations to our media friends who won: Sendoy Guinguing (dyTR, Baclayon councilor) and Gerry Pabe (dyRD, Tagbilaran City councilor). Better luck next time to our media friends: Tibbs Bullecer (for Loay Mayor, dyRD), Dodong Libatona (for Balilihan councilor, dyTR), Danny Reyes (for Panglao councilor, dyRD), Peddie Bolanio (for Tagbilaran City councilor, dyRD) and Frony Narisma (for Baclayon councilor, Bohol Sunday Post).

See you next time, losers:  Egen Salibay (for Albur councilor), Carmen Gatal (for Baclayon councilor), Jojo Baritua (for Baclayon councilor),  Azon Galbreath (Bilar Mayor), Jimmy Jimenez and Victor Migrino( for Dauis Mayor),  Dominic Villafuerte (for Candijay councilor),  Arlene Palgan (for Carmen Vice Mayor), Boy Ancog (for Carmen councilor), Vito Rapal (for Corella Mayor), Apolinaria Balistoy (for Cortes Vice Mayor), Dan  Montero (for Cortes Mayor), Eksam LLoren (for Jagna Mayor), Hilario Ayuban (for Loay councilor), Luisito Digal (for Loboc Mayor), Nilo Sarigumba (for Loboc Vice Mayor), Malou Sombrio (for Loon councilor), Sancho Bernales (for Mabini Mayor), Dodong Veloso (for Maribojoc Mayor), Benedicto Alcala and Vangie Lazaro (for Panglao Mayor), Walter Sultan (for Panglao Vice Mayor), Bebeth Dinorog (for San Isidro councilor),Kit Oppus and Nuevas Tirol-Montes (for Tagbilaran City Vice Mayor), Bryan Gaviola, Johnny Enerio and Gibyrlu Lumayag (for Tagbilaran City councilor), Rammel Cagulada and Romy Sales (for Valencia councilor), Che Toribio delos Reyes and Amay Bisaya (for Bohol Governor),Sharleen Lim and Joseph Sevilla (for Bohol Vice Governor), Dan Lim (for Congressman, first district),  Ondoy Cajes (for Congressman, second district), Handel Lagunay and Arlene Karaan (for first district board members);  and Mafe Camacho and  Molex Cepedoza (for second district board members).

Take a bow, Lionel Marco Castillano, Macario Delusa, Annie Maglahus, Malou Cempron, Juvenal Beniga, Priming Ontong, et al (who were getting five hours of sleep during election), our teachers, police and army men...and to Nang Besing Rulona, the ever San Pedro at the SP Session Hall! Clap! Clap! Clap!

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Dapat Tama!

Alam natin ang tama, ba't di natin ginagawa?

Paulit-ulit na lang na ito ang bagong simula.

Simula nang simula bakit walang natatapos?

Ilang beses nangako ilang beses napako.

'Pag tayo'y nagsama-sama lahat ay malalampasan

May mas maayos na bukas para sa ating mga anak.

Ang unang hakbang ay piliin ang tamang nakatatak

na pangalan sa balota.

 

Kaya dapat tama!

 

-From GMA News and Public Affairs “Dapat Tama” advocacy

 

Tomorrow, you will decide who will run this province for the next three years. Your vote is your dignity.

 

Dapat tama! How can we choose right leaders?

 

Gloc 9 Courtesy: GMA News

Here are the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting or PPRCV’s 10 Commandments for Responsible Voting (and reminders that vote buying is an evil act from Jagna Movement for Good Governance or JaMGGo):

 

1. Vote according to the dictates of your conscience.

 

2. Respect the decision of others in choosing their candidates.

 

3. Seek to know the moral integrity, capabilities, and other personal qualities of the candidates you will vote for.

 

4. Strive to understand the issues, platform, and programs of candidates and parties campaigning for your vote.

 

5. Do not sell your vote.

 

6. Do not vote for candidates using guns, goons, gold, and glitter.

 

7. Do not vote for candidates tainted with graft and corruption.

 

8. Do not vote for candidates simply because of “utang na loob” (debt of gratitude), popularity, good looks, or “pakikisama” (peer pressure).

 

9. Do not vote for candidates living an immoral life.

 

10. Always put the welfare of the country as top priority in choosing the candidate you will vote for.

 

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It goes without saying that Mother's Day is one of our favorite days of the year. Year after year mothers give us so many beautiful reasons to be thankful they’re our mothers. Today, we honor mothers everywhere for their sacrifices, for making us laugh, for the lessons they impart, and for their unconditional love.

 

Proverbs 31:28 says, “Her children arise up and call her blessed.”

We asked our friends to tell us: What did your mom teach you?

 

Some of our friends asked simply ignored the question. Here are those who shared short of inspiring, from sweet to funny to tear-jerking to wise responses in our celebration of motherly wisdom:

 

Reigh Monreal: I can’t remember many. My Nanay died when I was six and my younger siblings were four and one. From stories I learned she was thrifty, hardworking and good at sewing by hand. She even made me a school bag because she didn’t like that I use a Guitar cellophane bag that some of my classmates were using. The bag lasted for a couple of years. Today, I hand-sew buttons on my shirts, hems on my pants, and any torn part of my clothing. Maybe I got this “talent” from my Nanay. I was also a wise and practical spender when I was still a struggling scholar at the Visayas State University.

 

Berly Elizabeth Lupot: My mom taught me that success is sweeter when wrapped with humility.

 

EJ Relampagos: My mom has taught us the unconditional kind of love...whatever me and my siblings have become now is the result of that love we have enjoyed since we were conceptualized by our parents.

 

Benjie Oliva: She taught me to live a simple life, to stay humble, to have a mission in life and to love God above all things.

 

Adri Anne Tirol Montes- Espanola: My mom taught me how to be strong no matter what life brings you, to find joy in every circumstance, and to never give up. She is the family`s source of strength.

 

DonDon Suganob: Always be humble whatever life will bring you, pray and trust everything to God.

 

Tessie Labunog-Sumampong: My Mama taught me to help other people and to love and care for each other. I’m a very generous person gyud hehehehe basta naa lang.

 

Judith Uy-Sumatra: My mom taught me that there are only two people in the world: the oppressor and the oppressed. One thing I learned from her is never to surrender, to fight till your last breath.

 

Jo Menorias: My mom taught us to take good care of our names as well as reputation even if we are not rich.

 

Fiel Angel Araoarao-Gabin: Born into a family who had less in life, Mama Wincie - through her actions, personal conviction and dedication - has taught my siblings Ondoy, Baby, Coeli and I, even my children, nieces and nephews that honest hard work pays off, that it is better to give than to receive (especially where sharing one’s talents is concerned), and that, above all, our strong faith in God makes us conquer our fears and achieve the impossible... A true personification of self-sacrifice and compassion, Mama Wincie’s life is a living testament of her ideals.

 

Katrina Schoof-Chu: Doing the household chores, even if you have maids - that’s how I learned to wash and iron clothes, do the dishes and most especially, clean the house. My mother said that, when married, I have to make sure I take care of my husband, see to it that he’s presentable - no holes on the socks or shirts - because it will always reflect on the kind of wife I am. My mom is a very generous person, so I think I got that trait from her.

 

Malou Cempron: My mom taught me to be God fearing and sensible at all times.

 

Chandrina Elluiska Schreurs: My mom taught me to become a better person and feel what’s inside my heart, and most of all when I stumble, try to find ways to be back and raise your head high that you have undergone such endeavor.

 

Leslie Domapias-Ramirez: The value of spiritual strength in love, family life and profession.

 

Kit Oppus: How to stand for what one believes in!

 

Ariel Fullido: To fear God, and always look on the brighter side of life!

 

Reuben Gulle: My mom taught me the values of giving without expecting something in return. She instilled in me that by giving, the windows of heaven will open, and pour the blessings on me.

 

Toto Veloso: To always do what is right, so there will never be any regret for whatever you do. This is what my beloved mom taught me.

 

Tracy Remolador Torres: My mom taught me to stop comparing myself to others because I will have my own race. She taught me to be generous and patient.

 

Blair Panong: She was always telling me when I was a child that when I go out into the world - I have watch out for traffic. We have to hold hands. We have to stick together.

 

Aris Aumentado: Good manners and right conduct.

 

Nikko Sereno: My mom taught me the value of hardwork and to never take my health for granted.

 

Leah Tirol-Magno: My Mama taught me a lot of great things. One of those is the love for cooking and baking. Now, I cook and bake for my own family and for others.

 

Clarlaine Falcon Radoc: To follow what my heart desires and being true to myself. All I need to remember is that I should be responsible in everything that I do with mature obedience, trust and faith in God. She never really fails to inspire me.

 

God bless all the mothers, all across the world.                               

 

***

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Tagbi’s Saulog beat

Wake-uppers:

Scene: The researchers conducted a survey involving students from selected public and private high schools in Tagbilaran City. Out of 1300 respondents mainly students who regularly ride tricycles as a means of transportation in going to school, 83% answered that they have often been charged with fares higher than the mandated tricycle fare, with respect to the distance of their flag-down location to their school, meaning, overpricing of fares is a common experience for high school students in the City. Project Citizen, an international program being implemented in sixty (60) countries committed to active citizenship, is being implemented by PCCED, a non-government organization which promotes good citizenship and participatory democracy through education. The TCSHS group were chaperoned by Geraldine Doron, TCSHS Araling Panlipunan teacher, and Marina Salamanca, Education Program Supervisor of the Tagbilaran City Schools Division.

 

Scene: There were no international participants in the 2nd Dragon Boat Competition-First Bohol Challenge. Spotted during the event was Sev Lubigan, a corporate trainer and training coordinator of the Asian Gaming Academy. He is also a freelance fitness personal trainer.

 

Seen: Spotted in Bohol last week was Kapamilya Star Melissa Ricks. She visited Bohol Bee Farm, Tarsier Botanika and other beauty spots. She also went diving in Balicasag Island.

 

 

***

Tagbilaran City, the city of friendship, was unmistakably the top destination over the weekdays.

 

St. Joseph Cathedral

After lunch at The Buzz Cafe at Galleria Luisa along Gallares Street, Tagbilaran City, my nephew Jhelmar Jala and I went to BQ Mall to buy some cranberry juice. That’s where we watched and took pictures of the first Saulog Festival, a cultural event in honor of Saint Joseph the Worker, the City’s patron saint, featuring the contingents and floats (carrying Kapuso star Angelo Ilagan of Munting Heredera fame and Ramp Models Association of Bohol or RMAB models). Highlights include a dance competition among groups from the city’s different barangays in elaborate costumes, all of them honoring Señor San Jose.

 

Even under the scorching heat of the sun, locals and visitors alike, including award-winning Boholano director Maryo J. delos Reyes (who told me that he has an upcoming movie “Bamboo Flowers” to be filmed in Anda, Alicia and Maribojoc on May 15-30), lined up the streets to get a view of what was going on.

 

Bool

It took the uncommon streetdancing route from the Old City Hall, Gallares Street, B. Inting Street, CPG Avenue, J.S. Torralba Street, E. Sarmiento Street, then to the long stretch of J.A. Clarin Street leading to the Tagbilaran City Hall where the ritual showcase took place. At least, it was something “new” for the people of Bohol.

 

The first-ever “Saulog Tagbilaran” was held under the auspices of the City Government of Tagbilaran (through the City Council for Culture and Arts) and its partner, the Cathedral  Parish of Saint Joseph, with the support of the participating barangays of Bool, Booy, Cabawan, Cogon, Manga, Mansasa, Poblacion 1, Poblacion II, and Ubujan. Barangay Manga got five of the nine special awards, followed by Cogon with three and Bool with one.

 

Manga

Cebu’s Ricky Ballesteros, Sinulog Foundation, Inc. executive director, along with Ormoc’s Glenn Aparis, Tubigon’s Dennis Walton Balbero, Cathedral Parish of Saint Joseph the Worker’s Msgr. Jeffrey Malanog and City Planning and Development Coordinator and City Council for Culture and Arts chair Paterna Ruiz composed the panel of judges.

 

Our good-friend, the ever-generous US-based Boholano socialite Mikey Gatal of mikeygatal.com, sponsored the 40 white-collared T-shirts with prints used by the working committees during the event. Part of the streetdancing committee were Fiel Angeli  Araoarao-Gabin, Butch Bernas,  Edison Gumapac, Romel Sapid, Jovenal Edquilag, Antonette Bongalos, William Aranilla and Monica Boyboy.

 

Cogon

Oh, what a day when I met some friends— Emerson Pinos, Alexis Cadeliña and Liza Macalandag — you know it was comforting to see old friends.

 

After the dance showdown, we had our pamiesta. Burp! Burp! (That’s what I like during the Merry Month of May, everyone is happy.)

 

Hopefully, Saulog will continue to become a well-sustained cultural activity of Tagbilaran, considering that Tagbilaran’s May 1 fiesta is the opening salvo of the month-long fiesta celebration in Bohol.

 

Take a bow, Maam Pat! Take a bow, Fiel!

 

***

Lots of people in Tagbilaran ride bikes for lots of different reasons. It is widely acknowledged that cycling is one of the best ways for people to achieve good health and fitness.

 

It was Nikki Quintia who convinced me to join them in their rides for, you know, health reasons.  

 

“Biking is great for your health, good for the environment and can save you money,” said Nikki.  “It can be done by people of all ages.”

 

Cyclists are a diverse group but Nikki and her hubby Mike are members of the group “Cute 16 Folders” who are using folding bikes, very small bikes that are super cute (Members are also cuties!).

 

Folding bikes come in an increasingly wide variety of shapes, sizes, weights, and “fold-abilities.” In my visit to Nikki’s home at Airport, she showed me her collections of folding bikes.

 

Nikki explained that folders are efficient, economical, healthy, ecological, fashionable and fun transportation.

 

“The difference between a folding bike and a standard bike is that folders are easier to transport and store, said Nikki. “The modern folder is lightweight, versatile and easy to use.”

 

“Cute 16 Folders” members have nightly rides every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. For short ride, they have the Airport Road to Manga, Airport to Dauis and Airport to Baclayon.  For long ride, they have the Airport to Cortes, Airport to Panglao and Airport to Loboc.

 

Last November 30, 2012 (Bonifacio Day), the Cute 16 Folders held the "1st Tagbilaran City Folding Bikes Unity Ride” organized by the "Cute 16 Folders" under the leadership of hot couple Nikki and Mike Quintia and Jake Gregorio.

 

Folding bikers from the entire city gathered together for the said event that brought more friendship and camaraderie.

 

The event was participated in by different bike clubs and bike enthusiasts around the city, unexpectedly it reached to about 100 plus bikers. It was sponsored by Mikey Gatal (OMG). OMG shirts were worn by the bikers from the starting point at CPG North Avenue to Baclayon, then a stopped-over in Dauis Bridge where prizes were drawn and given to the lucky winners, then back to Plaza Rizal for the finale group picture taking.

 

Like “Cute 16 Folders” on Facebook to know more of their events.

 

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