My ‘recycled’ Christmas list

How many kings are born in hovels?

King are meant for thrones, not pastures.

But this king did and we can marvel

He is different, that we can be sure.

While commoners who deserve far less

Demand far more, He models meekness.

There was no room in a crowded town

People gathered to be registered.

All must heed the emperor’s decree.

Even Mary, in her condition.

No one says no to the emperor

Not even Him who would be Savior.

It was hard for Joseph and Mary

There was not even a place to stay

Comfort was not in the mix of things

Not in today’s context and thinking.

Privilege and favor, no one craved. 

All they sought was a room for the Babe. 

So He was born inside the manger.

That no one cared, it did not matter.

The shepherds came, it was a welcome

Fit for this King, so gentle, so calm.

And yet, no doubt many years later

We remember the humble manger.

Jesus says that He is still knocking

At our own doors, where He is welcome.

He will only enter when open.

God seeks mangers that welcome Him in 

Those that rejoice over His coming

For mangers wide open for this King. 

    -The Manger by Chito Fuentes  

“The Manger” written by veteran journalist Chito Fuentes (more poems and articles at http://yellowlightsign.com) tells us that Jesus is not the helpless infant or even a grown-up man, but the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  As we celebrate Christmas, let us celebrate the miracle of His love. I encourage you to ponder the majesty of God and the goodness and power He brings to your life.

Like you, I wish peace on earth and goodwill in Bohol which this year has been torn apart by unimaginable tragedies and controversies.

I have my own Christmas list for my favorite Boholanos, regardless of whether they’d been naughty (Where are you Miss Bohol Sandugo 2013 Brigitte Burato?!) or nice (What’s your next Bangon Bohol projects Anna Maris Igpit?! ). Only three days before Christmas Day, so better late than never.

Here they are:

For Rep. Art Yap— May Cong. Art Yap continue to muster support in his claim to rebuild homes for the earthquake victims thru the Rebuild Bohol Foundation he initiated so that those rendered homeless by the calamities  will no longer have to sleep in tents.

For Abdul Wallace and Chandrina Elluiska Schreurs — A chain to bind them and lock their hearts forever and ever. Amen. How about a marriage contract? Remember that marriage is not a noun, it’s a verb! He! He! He!

The country’s tallest Santa Claus

For Marianne Domivee Chatto and Haibon Lim Mapute— A solemn march down the aisle.....  A marriage contract!

For Benjie Oliva and Atty. Joan Jagonos-Oliva— A stork’s visit. Same for Eden Descallar–Ceballos and Mikel Ceballos,  Loida Lagonoy-Viloria and George Viloria; and Diane Uy-Yap and Atty. Wrenly Yap. 

For Nemi Monton — A clean bill of health and an award (long delayed?) recognizing his talent and tireless dedication as sports czar in Bohol! Paging Capitol!

For Idy Cagas — Beauty rest and hot boyfriend!  Same for Bia Ursula Bautista, Fer Mary Baliquig, Ely Rose Apple Angcon, Felisse Marie Carvajal, Farrah Faye Mian, Carlene Yap, Candy Cumayas, Aya Montero, Trisha Chatto and Elvie Bongosia.

For Dame Rose Soy —Eternal beauty! She will continue to possess beauty, grace, wisdom and wealth and influence through the years as Bohol's Queen of Tourism and Santacruzan Queen.    

For Atty. Brian Gaviola, Doc Homer Singco, Lemuel Belarmino — A marriage contract (Hurry!!! Hurry!!!)!

For Ardy Batoy —After her numerous hosting stints this year, Bohol’s Queen of All Media deserves a Mediterranean vacation (or in  Bora Bora in Polynesia). Same for Gloria Leodivica Araneta and Raul Gatal.

For Atty. Greg Delgado — A hot “partner” to love him dearly. Same for Dobap! A quote from The Time Traveler’s Wife: “It's hard being left behind.. . It's hard to be the one who stays.”

For Anna Maris Igpit— A boyfriend to color her world. Note: In the strictest sense of the word…a boy friend. Addendum:  As Bb. Pilipinas, she will help promote to bring back the vigor in Bohol’s tourism industry. Same for Brigitte Burato that her presence can be felt in Bohol.

For Vida Tirol-de Juan and Butch de Juan — Another “joint venture.” Their daughter Bea needs a brother or a sister. Same for Tagbilaran Mayor Baba Yap and Jane Censoria Cajes-Yap whose daughter Janah needs a sister or a brother. The same wish for Atty. Doi Magdoza and Dra. Aileen Tan.

For Pepe Recitas— Good health and more years to continue the programs of HomeReach Foundation. Same for Ramie Cadag, Manuel Cempron, Francis Dompor and Fancy Baluyot.

For Onie Oclarit, Fr. Fro Lungay and Meo Mascariñas — Good health and beautiful music.

For Mila Lim — Good health and more years tocontinue decorating her Christmas village at home with happiness and joy.

For Vanity Kintanar Salinana—Ageless beauty to continue her advocacy helping the transpinay and the LGBT community.  Same for Baby Tagoctoc, Bohol’s most influential and powerful bading.

For Mikey Gatal — A round trip ticket to Thailand with his someone special. Stephanie Laurens’ The Edge of Desire says, “My heart only ever had one thought, one want. One need. Despite all, in spite of all...All my heart has ever wanted is you.”

For Mizken Tirol Andan and Ryan Sines — A hot “partner” to love them dearly. Same for  John Torralba, Emerson Pinos, Julan Cordova, Alexis Cadeliña, Tracy Remolador Torres, Charlow Arbasto, Gerry Lugod and Butch Bernas. Heide Klum says, “I've been heartbroken. I've broken hearts. That's part of life, and its part of figuring out who you are so you can find the right partner.”

For Tagbilaran City councilor Adam Jala — A seductive and sexy girlfriend! Same for Gabriel Buates.

For Sam Penaso— More exhibits abroad and flanking (with his popular stripes and shades)!

For Zenaida Darunday, Pat Ruiz, Atty. Kins Aparece, Salvio Makinano, Judge Raul Barbarona and company —Good health and more years to protect the fragile environment of Bohol. Same for Rosalinda Paredes, Mightee Palo, Alvin Acuzar, Dorris Dinorog-Obena, Isidore Ancog, Ellen Gallares, Vera Gesite and Shem Quezon.

For David Maulas and Jenissa Laguda Peteros—  A marriage contract (indefinite)!  Wedding bells! Wedding bells!  Same for Alfeo Jabinez and Amy Fiel Booc.

For Doxson Asoy and Karen Digal-Asoy— A healthy baby due in February next year.                                     

For Jeroen Hellingman— Good health and long years to continue promoting Bohol to the world. Same for  Jerome Auza, Mike Ligalig, Roy Bayonas, Alfonso Potane, Rene Econg and company.

For Chito Visarra, Fred Araneta, BG Guingguing and Jerry Pabe —Exclusive and explosive segments with their “controversial” and “talkative” guests and “violent” callers. Same for  Atty. Salva Diputado, Lito Responte and Ted Ayeng.

For City administrator Edi Borja, former Tagbilaran Mayor Dan Lim, Atty. Victor dela Serna, Nestor Daarol, Felix Cempron, Ted Ayeng and Richard Bompat—A silencer (for this season) that will prevent them from flaunting on radio to throw “feisty” words this Christmas time. They can come back after the Holidays!  He! He! He! Peace!

For Marc Joseph Batoy, Ar-Ar dela Serna, Danilo Torcende, Adryan Mila and Clement Ingking — More exposures next year!  They deserve the kliegs and flickers!

For Beryl Elizabeth Lupot— A car and a true love!

For Peddy Bolanio and Glee Orcullo —Hot and explosive showbiz news for their Showbiz Rampa. Hope to hear great (shocking) revelations from guests in 2014!

For Governor Edgar Chatto and Rep. Erico “Aristotle” Aumentado — A New Year (and more years) full of hope and real goodwill. To come up with more concrete initiatives  that address crisis and disaster management in the province, bearing in mind the painful lessons from the magnitude 7.2 earthquake and supertyphoon Yolanda. Same for Rep. Rene Relampagos.

For former Tagbilaran Mayor Dan Neri Lim — Again, a peace pipe he should smoke with Gov. Edgar Chatto.

For Madame Paz Trotin, Che Toribio-delos Reyes, Leah Tirol-Magno, Gen Jamisola, Daday Uy-Fuertes, Barbara Ong, Jojo Baritua, Helen Binangbang, Tessie Pagdato, Sylvia Fernandez-Maristela, Baby Collins, Connie Geonzon,  Gerry Egos and Musette Hontanosas — Good things in life. Same for Doc Joy Yap, Dr. Mary Grace Uy, Dr. Angelito Lechago, DonDon Suganob, Primitiva Ontong, LJ Lumayag, Kit Oppus, Meljun Daniel, Nora Pahang, Concepcion Bagotchay, Romy Tagaan, Ate V Yorong, Judith Uy-Sumatra, Angie Valencia, Rey Chiu, Chito Fuentes, June Blanco, Ric Obedencio, Jun Gutierrez, Dr. Wilfreda Bongalos, Freda Tirol, Boy Dumadag, Sarah Dejaresco, Roygie Jumamoy, Dr. Evangel Luminarias, Vicky Wallace, Hans and Lani Schoof, Jas Montes, Dr. Cristeta Tirol, Dr. Henya Tirol-Sotelo, Amalia Tirol, Dr. Nenita Po, Liza Quirog, Betty Veloso, Pureza Chatto and Greenie Aumentado,

For Dalareich Polot — Bohol’s tableya princess may continue to inspire the youth to become business minded like her!

For Mayor Nila Montero— She may have the determination to bring out the best in Panglao and the political will to change wrong practices of the past for the good of the LGU.

For Cesar Montano, Rich Asuncion, Tintin Ng, Lailette Boiser, Gerber Mercado and Cathy Remperas — More challenging roles in a hit teleserye (if not a movie) to prove what they made of and to show their effective "natural" acting. Where are you Mich Capili?

For Henry Baron, Maximiel Tallo, Jong Magallano, Omie Auza, Rhigel Dulfo, EJ Relampagos and Sony Pamaong— Another gathering of talented fashion experts and couturiers as engrossing as “Reveal.” Paging Rotary Club of Tagbilaran!

For Tessie Labunog-Sumampong — Beauty rest and inner strength to fight against odds and obstacles in life. Like the Loboc River, she will continue flowing!

For Inday Rufing and Inday Charity — Hot partners to warm their cold nights. The night is cold and the comforter may not be enough to warm you up.

For Joy Suarez — A perfect holiday (not in Boracay, Palawan or Bohol) with someone special. She’s been working so hard that hapit makalimti ang lovelife! He!He!He!

For Fiel Angeli Espejo Araoarao-Gabin — More than anything in the whole world, love of family, good health and safety for everyone.

For Glenn Mark Blasquez— Roundtrip ticket to Bohol so that he can feel home sweet home. Same for Marcing Tsurumi, Jiji Apalisok, Rebecca Lusterio, Jocelyn Oppus, Babat Malicay, Auring Balili, Rey Reformina, Lorenzo and Richel Galaura.

For Centerstage Band — More gigs and release of their (long delayed) album!

For Nonito Donaire — We are the champion belt! Same for Aj Banal, Jedara Docena and siblings, Caesar Amonsot, Boom-Boom Bautista and Jesus Pacaldo. 

For Bishop Leonardo Medroso, et al— Blessed years ahead to continue sharing Christ and loving people. Same for pastors Nelson Rio III, Bobby Rio, Vicente Agustin, George Lungay, Franco Trigo, Rey Rodriguez and Bro. Libby Aba. Galatians 6:9 says, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

For Aldrin Palaca— A concert to showcase his talent as the Beatbox King of Bohol together with Kimpoy and the Loboc Children’s Choir (we want to hear your angelic voices), Alicia Bamboo Ensemble, Dimiao Children’s Rondalla, Loboc Youth Ambassador and HNU Diwanag Dance Troupe.

For Nene Lungay, Glenn Lumantao, Ric Ramasola, Marianito Jose Luspo and Napoleon Abueva— More years to showcase their talents. Same for Ryan Macalandag, Liza Macalandag, Tadiyandi, Baji, Bohol visual artists and Arte Malaya.

For Bohol Chronicle- Our kinaham forever and vanguard of freedom. More 100 years and beyond!

For VRS readers— May your Christmas and the coming New Year be blessed beyond measure!

***

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

Benjie, Joan make wedding guests cry

Wake-uppers:

US Ambassador Goldberg/US Embassy

Scene: Two days after USAid Deputy Assistant Administrator for Asia Gregory Beck visited the earthquake-ravaged areas in Bohol,  US Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg was in Bohol last Thursday, Dec 12. He mingled with kids at the Maribojoc Central Elem School.  Goldberg and USAid Philippines Program Director Gloria Steele gave school kits and teaching materials which the US government donated to Bohol teachers who lost their kits during the 7.2 magnitude earthquake.

Scene: Christmas season starts with the observance of misa de gallo or simbang gabi on Dec. 16. For nine days ( beginning on December 16 and culminating on December 24), Filipinos wake up in the wee hours of the morning and brave the cold weather, to attend dawn masses which usually start at 4 a.m., as an expression of devotion to God. Traditionally, completing the novena is also supposed to mean that God would grant the devotee’s special wish or favor.

Scene: “Bohol Sings for Hope” album is now on Soundcloud featuring the singles Bangon Boholano and Tugkaran. Full songs and teasers may now be played/downloaded. Help to raise funds for the rebuilding of Bohol! For more info visit facebook.com/bangonboholanomusic or soundcloud.com/bangonboholanomusic and share the music!

Scene: “Where is Miss Bohol Sandugo 2013 Brigitte Burato now?” asked the roving VRS (codenamed May Asim Pa). “There was no shadow of her doing her job as Bohol’s ambassador of goodwill especially during the 7.2 earthquake. I don’t think she’s busy! I hope she can give time to Bohol while the crown is in her head,” added VRS.

***

Having met several times during Benjie Oliva’s early days at the Department of Agriculture (DA), it seemed like the two were only meant to be acquaintances. But after being forced to work together, where Atty. Joan Jagonos as the DA’s internal auditor and senior staff and Benjie as the secretary’s regional engagement officer in charge for the regional  trips and activities, the two eventually warmed up to each other and fell in love.

Mr and Mrs. Benjie Oliva

Ihad an exclusive interview with the couple for GMA News when their wedding wascancelled last October after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake hit Bohol where theyshared their beautiful love story. Benjie admitted that it was a love at firstsight when he saw Joan.

What’s surprising to learn was that Benjie was sending flowers to Joan several times. 

It was their compatibility that kept the sparks flying.

I asked Benjie and Joan what was the most beautiful thing about each other inside and out. Benjie enthused, “She is a gift from God. She is the woman that God wants me to marry. Working with her feels like the biggest blessing and such a dream come true.” Joan is grateful for having Benjie by her side. “He is the most unique gift from God.”

On December 7, 2013, Benjie tied the knot with Joan at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Taloto District, in Tagbilaran City, dubbed “wedding of the year.”

The much-anticipated wedding was attended by politicians and generated incredible star power.

The wedding vows were so touching that the well-heeled guests couldn‘t help but cry.

The radiant bride walked down the aisle while the groom was singing Ikaw (popularized by Martin Nievera) accompanied by Major Plus organizer, part of which goes, Ikaw ang bigay ng Maykapal, Tugon sa aking dasal, Upang sa lahat ng panahon, Bawat pagkakataon, Ang ibigin ko’y ikaw, Ikaw ang tanglaw sa ‘king mundo, Kabiyak nitong puso ko, Wala ni kahati mang saglit, Na sa iyo’y may papalit, Ngayo’t kailanma’y ikaw...

The principal sponsors

Recounted Mrs. Lea Fabia, owner of the Philippine Nautical Training Colleges, who was among the teary-eyed guests, “I was touched and teary-eyed when I heard Benjie sang the song Ikaw. I couldn’t help sharing their joys. The overflowing happiness etched on their faces was infectious.”

The groom lovingly looked at his bride, as he said, “I take you to be my wife, my partner in life and my one true love. I will cherish our friendship and love you today, tomorrow, and forever...” and Joan, her eyes fixed on her brand-new husband, answered, “I take you to be my husband, my partner in life and my one true love. I will cherish our friendship and love you today, tomorrow, and forever...”

Anyway, Atty. Ethel Lungay-Reyes, daughter of former Catigbian Mayor and Senior Board Member

Arnold Lungay and one of the secondary sponsors of the wedding, says it all:

The first time I saw on Facebook that Benjie Oliva, a very good friend of mine, was saying words of love, I know it was something more than just an ordinary love story.  When I heard about their story, there was nothing extraordinary either.  Both Benjie and Atty. Joan are connected with the Department of Agriculture, they were introduced by their bosses and they became friends. Benjie was smitten by Joan and he never let her out of his sight.  It didn’t take too long and Benjie finally proposed marriage.

For weeks the couple were very busy in the preparation of their big wedding.  I described it as a Big wedding not only because of the number of the whole entourage but most of all because of the members of the entourage with no less than Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino, Department of Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, Governor Edgar Chatto, Vice Governor Concepcion Lim, Representatives Rene Relampagos, Arthur Yap and Erico Aristotle Aumentado, board members, mayors, undersecretary and directors of the Department of Agriculture and family friends.

The simple love story became extraordinary when the 7.2 magnitude earthquake shook the province of Bohol four days before their chosen church wedding date, October 19, 2013 at the Our Lady of Assumption Parish church, Dauis, Bohol.

The couple decided to move the wedding date and instead motivated everybody to stand on its feet and help the victims.  The earthquake did not shake their love for each other.  It nourished their relationship even more while they roamed around town after town, barangay after barangay to distribute the relief goods to the victims. 

The church wedding of Benjie and Joan was finally held last December 7, 2013 at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Taloto District, Tagbilaran City at 2 pm.

The groom, Benjie, wore a dark suit and the bride, Joan, was very radiant in her white long gown.   The whole entourage was very colorful in red.

The wedding turned out to be a very intimate affair.  The groom sang “Ikaw” while the bride walked down the isle.  The Mass was officiated by Most Rev. Leopoldo S. Tumulak, formerly Bishop of the Diocese of Tagbilaran and co-offciated by Rev. Fr. Avelino S. Vale, Rev. Fr. Vengie D. Laguros, Rev. Fr. Leonel Grado and Rev. Fr. Alger Angcla.

The songs of Major Plus filled the church with music during the wedding ceremony. It was followed by heartwarming songs chosen by the groom and the bride sang by Mr. Jerome Sala during the pictorial.

The reception followed at the Panglao Island Nature Resort, Panglao, Bohol.  The bride and the groom as well as all the guests made the party very warm as they stayed and gamely stayed and participated in the program.

The program was made very lively by the energetic host Miss Gloria Araneta and the Center Stage band.

The first part of the program was capped by a very breathtaking fireworks display. Those who stayed were treated to an all night party with the couple having a fabulous night.

Indeed this is a well loved couple and it was shown by the very successful wedding. The earthquake shook them but their love for each other firmly stood ground.  And now it can be told, their love for each other conquered all.

***

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

46664= forgivess and selflesnesss

Wake-uppers:

Scene: From Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Bohol: PHIVOLCS Dir. Renato Solidum Jr. clarified that there is no truth to allegations that Bohol will sink if the aftershocks will reach more than 6,000 as circulated thru text messages.

Scene: Mexican pop star Thalia received her star on Hollywood Walk of Fame on Dec. 5. Thalía's five-pointed terrazzo and brass star would be number 2,514 and be located at 6262 Hollywood Boulevard in front of the W Hollywood Hotel, near Shakira's star.

Scene: All roads lead to Sevilla and Booy District, Tagbilaran City on Dec. 12 for the fiesta, in honor of its patron saint Our Lady of Guadalupe. Different activities are held in barangay lead by re-elected barangay captain Jun Telmo. Dec 12 is also a nationwide celebration in Mexico in honor of Virgin of Guadalupe.

***

2013: Your best moment

What was your Best Moment of 2013?  As 2013 draws to a close, many of us will be looking back to our most memorable, extraordinary moments of the year.

VRS want to hear from you: What’s the one picture that truly captures your 2013 highlight? What will you remember most? 

Share it with VRS, alongside a short description why it was so special for you. E-mail leoudtohan@yahoo.com.  The most compelling stories will be featured in VRS.

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I have to say, a lot of people (especially girls) were very upset at his death. While I wasn't a die-hard fan, I was a fan of his. He was incredibly a great actor.

Paul Walker/Getty Images

Tragically, Paul Walker will no longer be part of Fast & Furious films. The 40-year-old US actor was killed in a car crash, while leaving a charity event in Los Angeles, California.

As soon as news of his death broke, Facebook and Twitter lit up with remembrances of the actor.

“My world stopped when I learned of his death,” said Jocelyn Pilayre. “I really admired him. Nabiyuda nako ani.”

Paul Walker had a deep impact on the cast, crew and fans during his 14 years as part of the 'Fast & Furious' franchise.

***

The world is mourning the loss of Nelson Mandela, who died at the age of 95.

Even netizens are expressing sadness over this bit of news.

“Thank You for teaching us humility and compassion,” said Vassil Romanillos of Loon, Bohol.

“Nelson Mandela was the real deal. The world will never be the same without him,” Meljun Daniel of Tagbilaran City Science High School posted on Facebook.   “If you don't know Nelson Mandela, make an effort to get to know him... And you'll know why the world is saddened by his passing..”

“Rest in peace Nelson Mandela. Thank you for teaching the world equality, acceptance and compassion,” said another fan.

Miko Cañares who is currently in Cape Town, South Africa also witnessed the deep, piercing sadness of the people. He posted on Facebook: “We joined the South Africans in hoisting and lowering the flag today. Mourning for the man I have only read about. The sadness and grief here is overwhelming.”

I once attended a general info competition and was thrilled when the quizmaster asked: What was Nelson Mandela’s prison number? Only one person got the correct answer: 46664.

The quizmaster further explained that Mandela was imprisoned on Robben Island in 1964, and was the 466th prisoner to arrive that year. The prison administration's scheme of numbering prisoners was to follow the sequence number of the prisoner (466 in his case), with the last two digits of the year (64).

That was in 1993. But that number “46664” stuck with me because reading his life story, Mandela was one of history's last great statesmen, and a moral paragon comparable with Mohandas Gandhi and Martin Luther King.

I learned more of Mandela when I was majoring history in college.  When he was elected president, he said: "Never, never, and never again shall it be that this beautiful land will again experience the oppression of one by another ... the sun shall never set on so glorious a human achievement. Let freedom reign. God bless Africa!"

Mandela visited the Philippines in 1997.

He was last seen in public at the final of the 2010 World Cup in Johannesburg.  Early in 2011, he was taken to hospital and was visited by Michelle Obama.

I didn’t meet Mandela personally but his impact to the world was amazing.

Nelson Mandela set an example for all to follow and was an inspiration of the world. The horrors he endured while in one of the worst prisons on earth would harden the heart of an average man.  Many people ruin their health and their lives by taking the poison of bitterness, resentment and unforgiveness, but Mandela was able to forgive the people who hurt him and lead his country as president for two terms.

When I was asked by CNN last Friday on Nelson Mandela, I answered: “The death of Mandela will send the whole world into mourning and self-reflection after heled the country from racial prejudice to inclusive democracy. He was a great man. Another thing I admired Mandela is he had not poisoned his heart; he learned to forgive despite the horror he experienced while in prison."

Let us remember Mandela’s personal example with regard to the value of forgiveness and selflessness.

That’s 46664.

Hamba Kahle Madiba!