Jesseth Pasagad: 18 lessons in life

Wake-uppers:

Scene: This piece of good news from Elizabeth Lamdagan-Haroun: Rev. Fr. Elpidio “Boy” Biliran Jr is the newly appointed superintendent of all Manila Archdiocesan and Parochial Schools. He was appointed by his Eminence Luis Cardinal Antonio Tagle.

Scene: From eventologist Mizken: Runway Icons’ Bohol’s Top Model 2014 (Season 2) is looking for a female model. She must be at least 5’4” and above, model built structure and 14-24 years old. Audition dates are on June 7 and 14, 2014 at Door 1, JJ’s Seafood Village, K of C, Tagbilaran City. Bring two (2) pieces of close up studio shot and bring all black lingerie with stiletto heels. For more info, text/call 0919-913-2119.

Scene: From Charles Ceasar Edulan, CPA: Please help Georgia Jauslin, a Filipino from Panglao Island, Bohol, realize her ultimate dream of becoming the next SWISS Explorer (writer and traveller around the world through Swiss Airlines/Lufthansa). To vote, visit http://www.theswissexplorer.com. Folks, today is the deadline!

Seen: Spotted in Jandayan Island, Getafe town last week was the famous Filipino-Japanese sumo wrestler Akira Takayasu. “It was Akira’s first visit to Bohol,” said VRS. Akira’s mom, Bebelita Reblingca Bernadas-Takayasu, hails from Bohol.

Scene: Former Catigbian Mayor and now CEO of Bet 'n Choy Farms Roberto “Bertsal” Salinas turned 63 last May 29.

Scene: Mutya sa Tagbilaran 2014 second runner-up Karen Rossana Jumawid Llorente was crowned as Miss Boholympics 2014 besting nine other candidates from other local government units (municipalities) in Bohol. Llorente, a graduate of Tagbilaran City Science High School last March 2014, won the Miss Cabawan 2014 title on March 14 which qualified her for the Mutya sa Tagbilaran 2014 pageant. She succeeded Tagbilaran City's Rizalee Rose Cempron Razo as Miss Boholympics 2013 who was Miss Poblacion 2 2014 and became first runner-up in the Mutya sa Tagbilaran 2014.

Seen: Spotted at Habhaban sa Baluarte last Friday were Palanca winner Marjorie Evasco, poet and community development consultant Nestor Pestelos, Dean Carrie Tharan of Miriam College and Rose Sabijon Rara of Holy Name University.

***

Her answer came quick and easy, and she didn’t stammer nor hesitate at all, showing her presence of mind and grace under pressure during the one–on-one interview of the candidates of the Mr and Miss Teen Bohol 2012.

Unruffled, Jesseth Nez Sendrijas Pasagad answered all my questions (She was smart, articulate and you could feel she speaks from the heart and she thinks as well. Her answers are unconventional for pageants, er, patty pageant answers), including those from my co-interviewer Jeycelle Espejo-Inting, and we gave her the highest score.

Jesseth Nez Sendrijas Pasagad

“She’s confident not to mention beautiful,” said Jeycelle on Jesseth. Eventually, she was declared 1^st runner-up and Miss Talent during the final night.

“From those years at Science High School that I’ve trained her, Cielo and their friends, I can say that she has enhanced her leadership, grace and terpsichorean skills, having coached her for Miss Teen Bohol 2012,” said the 1987 Miss Tagbilaran Fiel Angeli Araoarao-Gabin. “A descendant of Francisco Dagohoy Sendrijas, she is an impersonation of courage, beauty, grace, talent and leadership rolled into one. I hope she will continue to depict beauty with a purpose.”

Jesseth, the daughter of Zosimo and Aileen Pasagad of Bilar, Bohol, finished her high school at Tagbilaran City Science High School (TCSHS) with high honors. She is now a sophomore at the Palawan State University where she is taking up BS Petroleum Engineering and a President's Lister.

Why she is taking-up petroleum engineering?

“Actually, I was supposed to study Political Science in Ateneo de Manila University  because I somehow feel that fighting for true justice is innate in me (trivia: from my mother who belongs to the Sendrijas clan, we trace back our blood lineage  to the great Boholano hero Francisco Dagohoy who led the longest revolt  in Philippine history). I never really knew about petroleum engineering until the mother of my friend mentioned it to me. I did some research about the said course and it immediately caught my interest,” shares Jesseth. “I decided to take petroleum engineering initially out of curiosity because it is not the usual degree that students take. Practically speaking, I took this course because it deals with the energy industry which I believe will continue to prosper through the years since we all need energy resources in our daily lives, especially oil and petroleum. I also think it has a huge impact in today’s society.”

Jesseth is all grown-up. Her parents are her greatest inspirations in life.

“I am deeply thankful to my parents for their love and support that paved the way to my success in life,” she shares, smiling. “They are the epitome of selfless love. I would trade my life for their welfare and security.”

Jesseth will turn 18 on June 5 yet but a birthday celebration will be held tonight.

What we shall expect tonight? Butch Bernas, the production and cotillion choreographer shares,“The theme is enchantment. The production is somewhat like a continuation of her video from the forest scene and bring it to the real venue… with ballet and jazz.” I won’t spoil the rest.

“I chose enchantment as the theme of my debut because I’ve always been enchanted of people who exude that indefinable aura and down to earth attitude that captivates the rest of us long before we’ve set our eyes on them,” says Jesseth. “I can also relate this transition from being a shy insecure girl to a brave and smart woman as a spell that seems to bind my carefree youth to my upcoming life as an adult.”

VRS asks her to make a list of the 18 lessons she has learned in life. 

1. The road to success has a series of speed bumps called failures. You just have to drive well so you won’t crash.

2. You have a voice in everything.  Life will always give you options.

3. Just because you can doesn’t mean you should.

4. Think twice before you say or do something. Otherwise, regrets will rain on you.

5. Promises are sacred. Always keep your word.

6. Everybody has their own story, everybody has a problem so stop being rude and be kind. You don’t always know that what’s going on in another man’s life.

7. Your attitude will be tested when you are at your peak. Be humble.

8. Change is not always bad. Change for the better. Change for what is right.

9. Follow your heart but bring your mind with you.

10. Life is a give and take process. Don’t expect to receive something you haven’t given.

11. You have two ears and one mouth. Listen twice as much as you speak.

12. Falling in love is easy, staying in love is not.

13. Develop your personality, let yourself bloom. Nothing will happen if you choose to live in the shadows.

14. Be the change you want to see.

15. Never give up. If you fail, learn from it.

16. Family is forever. Treasure your loved ones.

17. You are beautiful. Don’t let others bring you down.

18. Pray, pray, pray.

***

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

Hello, Villa de Gloria!

Wake-uppers:

Scene: SILG Mar Roxas turned over 2.461 billion fund for Bohol quake recovery to Bohol Gov. Edgar Chatto.

Bohol TNT members and participants

Scene: The revival of the Bohol Transparency Network for Transformation (TNT). Members and participants attended the Monitoring and Reporting Public Transparency and Accountability of the Citizen Action Network for Accountability (Cana) training series. It was facilitated by Rowena Paraan of the ational Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) and head of ABS CBN's Bayan Mo, IPatrol Mo.

Scene: The Tuba and Kinilaw Festival tomorrow, June 9 in Albuquerque town.

Scene: Makeshift classrooms and tents have greeted the 140 pupils of Obujan-Tagubaas Elem. School in Antequera town during the first day of school. The makeshift classrooms and tents serve as temporary learning spaces for pupils. "This place is not conducive for learning; it's hot inside and muddy during rainy days," said Grade 5 teacher Nimfa Ayco. "Padayun gihapun ta sa pagtudlo para sa mga bata."

Scene: Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School in Tagbilaran City, Bohol has 4,058 students. The school has two shifts- a.m. (for Grade 7 and 8); p.m. (for Grade 9 and 10) to de-congest the number of students in the classroom, Principal 3 Concepcion Bagotchay said.

***

Paradise is the best word to describe Bohol known for its beautiful places and people. And what better way to enjoy it than to stay at one of Bohol’s newest resort, the Villa de Gloria.

The birth of Villa de Gloria is a new boutique style resort in Seaside, Songculan, in Dauis town in Panglao Island and a 10-minute drive from the Tagbilaran City airport.

The new Villa de Gloria in Songculan, Dauis, Panglao Island

“Its exclusive facilities in the modern and elegance blend with grandeur tropical atmosphere,” says the rising VJ Julan Crisale Cordova, a frequent visitor of the resort.

“Enjoy the luxurious setting of a world class resort with the amazing panoramic view overlooking the Philippine Sea and Maribojoc Mountain,” adds Julan.

All villas are in a Philippine-Balinese style with typical cogon grass roofing, built around a gorgeous infinity and kiddie pool surrounded by masterly designed lush tropical garden which are enchanting venues for weddings, meetings, reunions, parties and all types of gatherings in all occasions.

Take a peek and experience its wonderful accommodations composing honeymoon, deluxe ocean, ocean view villas with kitchen and superior ocean view suites.

“It offers an intimate holiday combined with personalized service from its charming and dedicated villa attendants,” says Julan. “And with their world class facilities and services.”

Ernie and Gloria Azucena, owners of Villa de Gloria

Villa de Gloria is owned by couple Ernie and Gloria Azucena. Ernie was an erstwhile vice president  of Specialized Waste System in Houston Texas and president of Passport Travel Group Inc. in Tampa, Florida, USA. He was also the former president of Pacific Waste Industries in Houston, Texas and became publisher of Philippine Observer and the president of Ursuline Group Inc. Houston Texas USA. On the hand, Gloria was formerly a trust administrator of Chase Bank and trust officer of Bank of New York in Houston, Texas, USA. They have three sons: Niel,Craig, and Marc, who are all presently living and working in Texas, USA.

The focus of the resort is to provide an authentic Bohol experience for visitors along with the comfort they expect from a resort.

For more info, visit www.villadegloria.com or email at info@villadegloria.com and ernest1129@yahoo.com; Contact Nos: +639179827090 (Philippines) and +7137858480 (US).

P.S. As what I have told you, Bohol’s tourism is back to normal, not only this summer but for the whole year round. As summer draws to a close, you might even find yourself experiencing a bit of the “end of summer blues.” But there’s no need to feel down, instead let’s beat those summertime blues with a new place to stay and relax in Villa de Glorial.

***

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

60 things people should know about Grenie Aumentado; Sevilla has a new Mayor

• 60 things people should know about Grenie Aumentado

• Finally, Ernesita “Nene” Digal is new Sevilla mayor

Wake-uppers:

Scene:  Blind hymnist and lyricist Onecimo “Onie” Oclarit needs our help. Onie, who suffers from chronic kidney ailment, has to undergo dialysis. “Gamay nalang nahibilin sa akong kinabuhi, nagsuway ako sa paghangyo kaninyo og diyutay nga hinabang,” he said in a video posted on Facebook. To help Onie, contact his daughter Alma at 09354989726. He has given much to the Church and to the beautiful musical culture of our province. Onie composed the songs Carlos P. Garcia: Bantugang Bol-anon and  Balik sa Bohol (popularized by Loboc singers at the floating restaurants). His composition "Señor San Jose" is sung anywhere in the world where there are Visayan devotees of Saint Joseph.

Scene: The successful book launching of Nestor Maniebo Pestelos’ Old Warrior and Other Poems last Wednesday, May 14 at the BQ Atrium.  Thanks to Sir Marianito Luspo (who emceed the event) for the invitation to the special and meaningful book launching. It was special because the book charts the life and experiences of Mr. Pestelos, and meaningful because the net proceeds of the book will be donated to the Bohol Quake Assistance Fund Drive of Bohol Local Development Foundation, Inc and partner agencies to help provide shelter and livelihood assistance to the victims of the killer quake. Visit www.nestorpestelos.blogspot.com or www.bldf.blogspot.com.

***

Comelec sits new mayor in Sevilla town

After one year of waiting, former Sevilla Mayor Ernesita “Nene” Digal was finally proclaimed by the Commission on Elections (Comelec)-Manila as the new mayor last Wednesday, May 14.

Mayor Ernesita Digal took her oath as the new mayor of Sevilla before Judge Sisinio Virtudazo with witnesses Marie Karen Digal-Asoy, Doxson Asoy and Atty.Theodoro Lagang. Photo By: Leo Udtohan

After Digal’s proclamation, she went home and took her oath before Judge Sisinio Virtudazo on the same day. The oath-taking was witnessed by former SK leaders-couple Marie Karen Digal-Asoy and Doxson Asoy and lawyer Theodoro Lagang.

“I thank the Lord! Nagpasalamat ko sa Ginoo nga minggawas ang resulta sa kaso nga sayo,” said Mayor Digal. “Ug akong panawagan sa katawhan sa Sevilla nga magmalinawun, makighiusa ug matinabangay para sa kaayuhan ug kauswagan sa mahal nga lungsod sa Sevilla.”

VRS sought Mayor Juliet Dano for comments but it was Sevilla municipal administrator Pat Dano who answered on her behalf.  

He said Mayor Dano has not yet receive a copy of the proclamation. He also added, “As of now, business as usual walay interruption.”

***

Sixty years ago, The Bohol Chronicle was born. This newspaper fought for freedom of the press.

The Bohol Chronicle’s anniversary (the 16^th on Friday, May 16) coincides with the birthday of Peregrina “Grenie” Aumentado (her 73^rd) who should be, according to Fatima Mapesos, addressed as “Maam Grenie”, described as “the best first lady of Bohol.”

What many people perhaps didn’t know is that her husband the late Rep. Erico Aumentado (who’s celebrating his 74^th birthday today, May 18) was a columnist of this paper.

In keeping with The Bohol Chronicle’s 60^th year, VRS asked Jiselle Rae “Jamie” Aumentado Villamor to do a list of the 60 things about her Lola Grenie.

1. She is our model of simplicity. Simple, in the very strict sense of the word and in all angles. She likes less complicated things.

2. She is comfortable in her own skin, in her own beauty and what she got as a person. To me, it is a mark of a truly beautiful person, inside and out. 

3. She smiles at simple things in life. A simple greeting. A simple gathering. A simple present. Give her that and she finds joy in it.

4. She is feisty. She knows how to get her ideas across.

5. She never let anything hold her down.

6. She is independent.

7. She finds ways on her own to get out of a difficult situation.

8. She turns difficult and hard situation into fun and amusing experience.

9. She thinks ahead of the situation. She anticipates and readies herself with anything that might happen.

10. She is one tough lady to hold her own in certain situations.

11. She lets go of the bad days and move forward to better ones.

12. She does what needs to be done “period.”

13. She is fearless with anything, except with God.

14. She was always there behind Lolo Rico’s 45 years of public service- supporting, inspiring and helping out the best way she could.

15. “She loves to be held and kissed every time I go out from the house”, according to Lolo Rico.

16. She is smart and wise.

17. She gives the most practical advice on marriage and how to deal with your husband. Yes, I am still single but I am lucky enough to have heard and listened to my Lola’s advice on men.

18. She lives not to impress but to be her own.

19. She prefers not to live in someone’s expectation.

20. She does not expect everyone to understand her journey because she knows we have not been exactly where she is going.

21. She is a very down to earth woman.

22. She never demands.

23. She settles on what is available, and she does not want to cause people hard time only for her convenience. What is convenient for all is convenient for her.

24. She is bold and original. 

25. She always refuses to be in the limelight.

26. She prefers lightness and elegance than lavish and glamor.

27. She stood for the family and is still standing for her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

28. She always reminds us to live within our means.

29. She always reminds us that power and material things are temporary in this world.

Jiselle Rae with her Lola Grenie

30. I don’t ever remember her baking cookies or cooking a dish- she is not that kind of grandmother- but I do remember her making her own version of hot pot dish ‘shabu-shabu’ and she proudly, exclusively and specially served it to only one person, Lolo Rico who delightfully and ‘carefully’ chose his words to describe the dish Lola Grenie made only for him.

31. She has a green thumb, a real farm and garden lady. She likes to stay and work in her garden or farm for hours and not go anywhere. It is either of vegetables, fruits or flowers. I could not think of any person I know who has excellent gardening skills than her.

32. She has the skill to take what is available and turn it into something very useful and special. She’d turn an empty tea jar to a nice pen holder, a used and torn sarong to beautiful handkerchiefs. Nothing goes to waste.

33.  She does not spend money unless necessary.

34. When she does spend money, she sees to it that she spends for the most reasonable price.

35. She likes to write and post it on walls. I am not talking about FB or Twitter kind of posts, but literally, she writes on a paper with a marker and posts it on everywhere she thinks visible- kitchen walls so the girls get reminded of her instructions, on the bathroom wall so she and Lolo Rico would be reminded of important dates and tasks.

36. She also writes her sentiments and post to a strategic place where the person the message is intended for can read.

37. She is a very generous woman. Often times, one would not leave her house empty handed because she gives even the little things she can offer.

38. She thinks of the welfare of everyone first before her own. She’d rather give out the money intended for her own to people who need it more than her. For her, nothing is too insignificant when it comes to lending a hand to someone else.

39. She never runs out of stories to tell. One of the best things about her. We could talk for hours and we always love that.

40. She is naturally funny and cool. Yes, that’s because we can talk about anything to her and laugh about it.

41. She is adorable in so many ways like the way she talks, her facial expressions and gestures. Get close to her once and you will know what I mean.

42. She still plays around with her great grandchildren.

43. She does not overthink. She worries less and she thinks for better solution.

44. She pays close attention to the people whom her loved ones find so important in their lives.

45. She believes that in order to serve your purpose in this world, you have to remove toxic people in your lives.

46. She is a very strong willed woman.

47. She takes responsibility of her actions.

48. She gives credit and gratitude to the one who deserves it.

49. She speaks in truth even when her voice shakes or even when you don’t like what you hear.

50. She tells you what she wants and really means it.

51. She always reminds us the power of prayer and how God is faithful to His promises to us. I remember one time, I was sick and became anxious over something. Lola Grenie said “Pray and call upon Jesus. He helps and will never leave you.” In situations like that, I always hear my Lola’s voice reminding me to pray and it comforts me every time.

52. She teaches us the value of loyalty and that none of us are perfect, but we all have the ability to be loyal to those we love, such as family and true friends.

53. She may at times forget your name but she doesn’t forget how you were to her. I personally had this experience with Lola when she couldn’t remember the name of the person we met at a grocery store but she did tell me how that person in a way touched her life.

54. She is not afraid to step outside of the box and out from her comfort zone.

55. She loves and she fights, depending on what is needed.

56. She is one of the few people I think of when I am caught in doubting situations and I ask myself what she could have done if she were on my shoes.

57. She has always been the rock, a stronghold in the family.

58. She is one woman who constantly showed me to never compromise myself, to trust my instincts, and to stand for my convictions.

59. She is someone I could not thank enough for what I have become now.

60. She is the definition of love, beauty and simplicity.

***

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