Let us help each other

 

Bohol Capitol

The province of Bohol will temporarily close its borders as part of its "preventive measure" against the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

 

Governor Arthur Yap signed executive order (EO) No. 8 declaring "community quarantine" all over the province effective March 16 until March 20.

 

Yap said that since health is a primary public concern, it is within his mandate to protect the people.

 

“We need this (community quarantine) so we can have a direction on how to beat this problem and how to take care each of other,” Yap added.

 

We will be partially, conditionally quarantined or locked down (whichever term you prefer) for four days. It's a bitter pill but necessary.

 

Last week, I decided to cancel my trips outside Bohol because it is time for us to follow and observe community quarantine and social distancing measures to avoid overwhelming our hospitals with persons under investigation (PUIs) and confirmed cases. The more patients we send in, the greater number of doctors and nurses will be quarantined. I don't want their operations will be disrupted.

 

Jeycelle Espejo-Inting of Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School shared a relevant article on her Facebook about social distancing.

 

"It might be a very alien concept to Filipinos but this will be crucial in the next few days and weeks.

 

"DO YOUR PART as a good Filipino citizen by staying at home, avoiding social gatherings, meetings and crowded places. You never know whether the person you stood next to or spoke to or sat with was exposed or not. Especially since we cannot test everybody at the moment and we are still waiting for more test kits. Social Distancing is infinitely more productive than insisting on going to a crowded place and using a mask meant for use by HCW healthcare workers(!)"

 

"Just think about this: The moment you get sick, you put your entire household at risk (risk particularly increases if you happen to live with your older relatives, parents.

 

"It is NOT business as usual. This is the reason why schools have been suspended and companies have allowed employees to work from home. Large gatherings, conferences and meetings have been postponed. Travelling might not be a good idea right now.

 

"Maintain good hygiene, take care of yourself to boost your immune system, practice cough etiquette and proper hand washing.

 

"If you are ordered to self-quarantine for two weeks, do it properly (no cheating!)
Monitor for symptoms, do NOT panic.

 

"The concept is to LOWER and DELAY the EPIDEMIC PEAK. This will ensure that our hospitals are not overwhelmed and those most vulnerable (60 and up) are protected with adequate resources."

 

Here's another article shared to us by reader Jocelyn Peñaflor (address unknown):

 

*QUIET CHINA*
Written by a Chinese Pastor sent to a brother in Istanbul via friends in Singapore

 

The hustle and bustle of China finally quiets down, the restless society comes to a still, and the restless Chinese people gradually calm down.

 

The wild animals that were once held by humans in cages finally managed to keep humans in cages.

 

Humans finally lower their proud head and have begun to think quietly: are we still the king of the earth?

 

Mankind finally feels the power of nature once again.

 

In the face of the threat of death, human beings have only begun to reflect seriously, only to realize that a lack of awe-inspiring social atmosphere will lead to more harm and more risks.

The greedy heart is being purified by the virus, and the mouth that loves to eat is being punished by the virus. The people who have been soaking in the bright red and green places all day have been driven home by the virus, saying.... "Go home!"

 

There are fewer and fewer people on the street, few cars on the road.

 

The air is getting fresher...., the haze is gone..., the sky is getting bluer...., the sun is getting brighter...., family lives are getting warmer, harmonial, and cordial.  People's hearts have become more and more calm.

 

People who haven’t read for years have picked up books at home. Parents and children who had no communication, couples who couldn’t speak few words a year have opened up the conversation box.  Children who do not know how to respect the elderly have began to be filial.

The virus teaches human beings a vivid and profound lesson. It makes us understand awe. It also lets us know what is called "good times".

It also makes us feel true love on earth. It makes us gradually fall in love  "Return to the Road", we really should be grateful for this "enemy", we need such an enemy to give us a "reminder" and give us  "empowerment".

 

The virus will not leave so quickly. It needs to see the CULTIVATION of human good habits. The virus will not continue to rag, because human love will gather more power to keep the virus away. Time will tell us everything. time will also prove what is right.

 

The virus reminds us that THERE IS AN ALMIGHTY.  And humans are just humans.

 

And an anonymous letter forwarded to us by our readers, I think worthy to be shared:

 

To All Boholanos,

 

I know how hard it is to absorb the economic downturn due to Ncov19. Some employees were forced leave for a month or indefinitely. In short, jobless.

 

Bohol is strongly dependent in tourism; no tourist, no income.  And this does not stop there.  The multiplier effect is very evident. Tours and events turn out so low, flights are cancelled, Hotel reservation almost zero, restos, small time and big-time business owners are now worried how to sustain the business in the next few months(rent, utilities and salaries).Van owners too are hardly hit. No tour means no money to pay the monthy car loans.

 

Let us help this Govt manage and overcome the spread of this virus by exercising due deligence and be responsible on our own actions. Keep all Elders and kids away from people with travel history. Avoid socializing for the meantime (Distance Socializing muna).

 

Sa mga tourist van drivers, receptionist sa mga resorts and hotel, if you feel you were exposed with the virus, do a self qurantine and get yourself tested.

 

Sa mga seaman, please lang gyud do, malooy mo sa Bohol, let us keep the stat. You know what to do.

 

LET US AVOID COMMUNITY TRANSMISSION, HOPE and PRAY FOR THE BEST.

 

KEEP BOHOL a COVID19 FREE.

 

My prayer: "Our G-d and G-d of all generations, in our great need we pour out our hearts to You. The days and weeks of suffering are hard to endure. In our struggle, let us feel that You are near, a presence whose care enfolds us. Rouse in us the strength to overcome fear and anxiety, and brighten our spirits with the assurance of Your love."

 

We can draw strength from the 2013 earthquake. It was kindness at its finest.

Thank you to all our leaders, doctors, nurses, police, army, Coast Guard, emergency responders
and volunteers.

 

Let us help each other. Shame on those who think only of themselves in times of crisis.

 

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

 

Queennie Castrodes: Genuine and gorgeous

That Queennie Klaire Felias Castrodes is more than just a pretty face is amply proven by the awards she received when she graduated senior high at Saint Mary Academy in Guidulman town. She is now a diligent first year Business Management student at Holy Name University.

Queennie Castrodes:  'My crown is in my heart, not on my head.'

That Queennie is a model, a campus personality, and a beauty queen. She is part of TAN model, she became Miss Majic Model 2018, Jagna Next Top Model 2018, Miss Holy Name University-College of Business Administration (HNU-CBA) 2019 second runner-up, Miss Silka Bohol 2019 1st runner-up, and Mutya sa Cabawan 2019.

That Queennie has the star quality that in 2018 she was a finalist of ABS-CBN's Pinoy Big Brother (Starhunt). She was so gorgeous on national television.

"She is good. She is pretty," says Khim Roger Ryan Magtagad of The Art Nouveau (TAN). "And she is one of those new TAN models who has potential and I'm looking forward to her future endeavors."

At 19 (turning 20 on December 14), Queennie stands 5'6",  weighs 119 lbs., and wears
medium-size shirt and size-9 shoes.

Incidentally, Queennie is one of the 15 candidates of this year's Mutya sa Tagbilaran representing Barangay Cabawan.

An early favorite of Mutya, VRS is gruelling her with Q and A.

What are your preparations for Mutya sa Tagbilaran 2020? I attend workshops, trainings and practices and at the same time I go to school. I don’t really deprive myself of the food that I want to eat. I think the secret is you just take everything in moderation.

Have you always wanted to join beauty pageant since you were small? Yes, since I was a young I always wanted to become a beauty queen. Right now, being part of the Mutya sa Tagbilaran 2020, I am in my first step towards fullfilling it. And I am really idolising our two Miss Universe winners-Pia Wurztbach and Catriona Gray. I want to follow them.

Would you rather be smart but not too beautiful, or beautiful but not too smart? Smart but not too beautiful. I believe I can be beautiful in so many ways with the help of advanced technology. But if you are smart, it is something more important and applicable. Being smart is being knowledgeable.

The Coronavirus disease (Covid-19) scare has affected the country's tourism industry including Bohol. How you will convince people here and abroad that it is safe and more fun in Bohol? It is  still more fun in Bohol because of the friendly and hospitable people who add color and joy to the place. It's safe because our government officials and authorities are doing their best to promote preventive measures.

What do you think is the smartest thing that you’ve done so far? Stand up for myself and do not depend on others.

What do you think is the biggest decision that you’ve made in your life? Being an independent person specially that I am now in my college. It is really hard to adjust my daily living without my family.

What are your winning traits? Being true to my self and keep my feet always on the ground.

Queennie Castrodes, 19, says that she has a lot of bashers. 'I’m thankful to them because they challenge me to improve myself.'

What winning tips you get from your trainor/handler? Be true to yourself and don't ever change. Ate Khim reminds me that 'my crown is in my heart, not on my head.'

How do you handle bashers? Since I started joining beauty contests, I have had a lot of bashers. I’m thankful to them because they challenge me to improve myself. I don't give it a big deal as long as I know myself and I don't harm others.

Do you have secrets sustaining your poise, your grace under pressure, especially during the crucial points in any contest? I just give my best shots and keep a positive attitude.

What is your best asset and why? My personality because I am genuine and I am also pretty inside and out.

Who’s your  role model? My mother (Mary Ann Chiela Castrodes), our source of love and inspiration.

Any other man whom you admire? My father (Edgar Allan Castodes). He is responsible and loving father. 

What is your favorite quote? I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Describe yourself in three (3) words: Rainbow. Beautiful. Simple.

How's your love life? It is pretty fine and I am contended on what i have right now.

What do you find sexy in a man? Aside from his physical looks,  I find him sexy if he is God- fearing.

And what turns you off? Disrespectful.

What is your advocacy?  I'm joining Mutya sa Tagbilaran 2020 because I believe this is a better   venue to promote the local (Ginamang Cabawanon) and native products of Cabawan.

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

Zamboanga Sibugay, mi amor!

I was in Zamboanga Sibugay province with my friends Edward Guyano and Helen Castaño last week for the province's 19th Founding Anniversary.

When we reached Dipolog City after a 10-hour ferryboat ride from Cebu City, we realized how beautiful the Zamboanga peninsula landscape is.

As the bus traveled to Ipil town (population: over 75,000), the province's capital, we knew there was no way we couldn't remain indifferent to its natural charm.

Buluan Island, located some 7 kilometers from the port of Ipil, features white sand beach and clear blue waters. Photo: Leo Udtohan

Edward (who lived in Salug town during his teen years) was a perfect guide. He knew the easiest routes and where to go in the area .

The small, quiet and sleepy town has progressed by leaps and bounds.  So much has changed except for the mountain that I think defines the province. There is now a hotel called Jackie's Hotel for social occasions (weddings, birthdays, etc.) complete with a swimming pool.

One of the activities during the 19th Araw ng Zamboanga Sibugay was the swim of endurance and long distance swimmer Ingemar Macarine aka "The Pinoy Aquaman."

The founding anniversary celebration remained underway in Zamboanga Sibugay even as many activities here were  cancelled due to the fear on the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

But it didn't stop Macarine to swim and promote tourism and clean seas in time for the 19th Araw ng Zamboanga Sibugay.

The swim dubbed as  “Langoy Para sa Kinaiyahan ug Malungtarong Turismo (A swim for the environment and sustainable tourism)” covered a distance of 3.5 kilometers from Buluan Island to Serendipity Isle in Ipil town in Sibugay Bay.

"The swim is for marine conservation  and sustainable tourism in Zamboanga Sibugay," he said.

Macarine, 43, is the election officer of Tubigon town in Bohol province.

The swim was organized by Zamboanga Sibugay 2nd District Representative Ann Hofer who said it would boost the province's tourist destinations such as Buluan Island and Serendipity Isle.

Buluan Island, located some 7 kilometers from the port of Ipil, offers its white sand beach and clear blue waters. Away from commercialization, the island allows visitors to enjoy seclusion and tranquility.

The marine sanctuary in the island was declared the best-managed marine conservation site in the Philippines in 2015 during the 5th Marine Protected Area Awards and Recognition or Para El MAR.

(From left): Atty. Ingemar "Pinoy Aquaman"  Macarine, your VRS, Edward Guyano, Helen Castaño, Toneth Ibañez and Roel Catoto.

"He can help us promote to take care of our environment with clean seas and beaches,"  said Hofer. "And the swim is also for the memory of my father."

Zamboanga Sibugay was formerly part of Zamboanga del Sur. Attempts to divide Zamboanga del Sur into separate provinces date as far back as the 1960s and it became a separate province on February 24.

Zamboanga del Sur Third District Representative  George Hofer was elected as its first governor in 2001.

The event was witnessed by Philippine Sport Commission (PSC) commissioner Ramon Fernandez, who is pushing for open-water swimming sports in the country.

Macarine swam together with 15 swimmers from Zamboanga City and Zamboanga Sibugay including cousins Jlo Jainar and Kyle Jainar, both 14.  They were beginners in swimming but they were delighted when they swam with Macarine.

"Proud mi nga kauban si Aquaman (We are proud we swim with Aquaman)," said Jlo.

But the swim was cut short due to strong currents. Instead of reaching Serendipity Isle, they just landed at the Buluan mini port.

"A little bit strong current. And of course, the waves..but so far the swim was good," said Macarine.

Macarine, who has been swimming here and abroad, made history by pioneering swim routes in a country where open water swimming is still in its infancy.

Philippine Sport Commission commissioner Ramon Fernandez and his wife Karla Kintanar, Atty. Ingemar Macarine and Congresswoman Ann Hofer. Photo: Helen Castaño

He said the Philippines  is surrounded by a number of seas, lakes, and rivers but relatively few understand exactly what open water swimming is.

Unlike the typical pool set-up, time and speed are two keys to finish the race as a champion. But for open-water swimming, only distance matters.

"It is endurance," he said.

Macarine tried to conquer the English Channel in 2016 and 2017 but the latter was halted after swimming about 33.8 km due to bad weather.

Fernandez, on the other hand, said the the PSC is pushing the open-water swimming sports in the country since it is now an Olympic event.

"And if you look at the map of the Philippines, we are a peninsula, we are in the top 5 of longest shoreline among other countries in the world," said Fernandez.

The 2020 Summer Olympics in July in Tokyo, Japan will have a total of 37 swimming events 
including two 10-km open-water marathons. This is slight increase from the 34 events contested in the previous Olympic Games.

The PSC would now focus on open water swimming and they could tap Macarine for the sports.

Fernandez said they could incorporate into the program the open-water swimming and environmental aspect, including shoreline  preservation.

"And it's cheap, you just need swimming trunks and goggles. And it is an Olympic sport," he said.

After the swim, it was time to tour round the town. The tour started at Ipil's  rotunda obelisk which was  inaugurated in 2015 to mark the province as a central part of Zamboanga peninsula. It serves also as a memorial to those lives lost in conflicts. The 1995 Ipil attack by 200 Abu Sayyaf militants was one of the saddest days in the province.

The town has so expanded that you now need to take a tricycle to go around. Years ago, it was so small that it was limited only at the town's market.

I beg your pardon for my waxing nostalgic about the Zamboanga Sibugay province. All I really wanted is thank Toneth Ibañez and Atty. Anna Liza Gonzales for taking care of us. Muchas gracias por todo, Congresswoman Ann Hofer for your hospitality! Mi amor! Ay amor!!

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

Fiel at 50: Life is beautiful

Mother. Wife. Beauty Queen. Speaker. Cultural Worker.  Public Servant. Etcetera. Not necessarily in that order.

Does it take a superwoman to excel in those roles?

Not really. All it takes is (Miss Tagbilaran 1987) Fiel Angeli Araoarao-Gabin to pull such a feat.

Fiel Angeli A. Gabin: 'I use "Perla," especially for the face, and instead of eyebrow pencil, uses mascara to define the eyebrows.' Contributed Photo

Bullied by the richer, more "entitled" girls and some schoolmates, saying that their family is "uyamot," but through honest efforts, has proved that there's more to life than money and material wealth.

If she were to live her 50 years all over again, would Fiel do it the same way, with nothing changed?

"I will still be profoundly grateful to God for each day of my life - good times, bad times and all, cherish  moments with my loving family and true friends," she says with conviction. "And continue my advocacy of helping young people hone their potentials through my own simple ways."

On the occasion of her 50th birthday on Monday (February 24, 2020), Fiel has 50 (actually, more!!!) good reasons to celebrate life.

1.Eldest daughter of bank executive Rep Bongoyan Araoarao (who opted to run for Panglao Mayor declining a managerial position, after bring prodded by his father), and Wincie Espejo Araoarao, a dedicated Bohol National High School (BNHS) PE teacher and Bukang Liwayway Dance Troupe founder.

2.Given the name “Fiel Angeli” which means “faithful angel” by her mother.

3.Thankful to maternal grandparents Lolo Aloy and Lola Pining Balatero Espejo, her first “babysitters”, and used to visit paternal grandparents Lolo Tio and Lola Tilde Bongoyan Araoarao on some weekends in Panglao.

4.Lost an 11-month-old sister “Hannah Gay” in April 1973 due to meningitis, although her Mama Wincie still believes to this day that it was a case of medical malpractice.

5.Started dancing at age 3 (“Pearly Shells” and “Tiny Bubbles”), trained by her Mama Wincie and wanted to be a gymnast like her mom, but got so scared.

6.Thankful to her experiences at Holy Spirit School, Bohol National High School, and Divine Word College of Tagbilaran.

7.“Manang Fiel” to Reparato Anthony “Ondoy”, Ann Claire “Bibby”, and Coeli Marie “Chelli”.

8.Since she was young, was always smitten by those who speak English well.

9.Has always considered herself an ugly duckling, but loves seeing beautiful swans and “envied” little girls who were taken as models in fashion shows and chosen as “Reynas” during “Flores” and “Santacruzan”.

10.Loves seeing swimming pools and the beach.

11.Likes avocado “lamaw” with banana, mango, condensed milk, and ice.

12.Rides the tricycle as main mode of transportation everyday since 1976 till now.

13.Imagined since Grade 6 that she will be wedded at the HSS Chapel (and she did!).

14.Has loved Siquijor since 1977, even before she met her husband, Jerome John Jumawan Gabin.

15.Watched the "Sound of Music" almost 20 times.

16.Started admiration for local showbiz personalities in the early 1980s and likes Pops Fernandez, Ruffa Gutierrez, Janella Salvador, and Sue Ramirez; while her favorite Hollywood actors are Christopher Reeve (original “Superman”), Keanu Reeves, and Johnny Depp.

17.As right-brained, hates Math and would rather be left and stay afloat in the middle of the sea or slowly swim ashore than solve a math equation.

18.Started joining beauty pageants at age 13, in the Miss Regional Secondary School Conference at Larena National Vocational College (now SSC) in Larena, Siquijor.

Fiel Angeli Araoarao-Gabin as Miss Tagbilaran 1987.

 

 

 

19.Thankful to her 4 regional secondary school press conferences (RSSPC) all over Central Visayas and 3 national SSPCs covering Luzon (Zambales), Visayas (Iloilo), and Mindanao (Zamboanga del Norte).

20.Won first runner-up in the Miss RSSPC 1985 and second runner-up in the Miss Regional Science Fair and Quiz 1986 in Lapu-lapu City.

21.Cherishes her 2 Miss Talent awards in Miss BNHS Personality 1986 for oration and Miss Tagbilaran 1987 for “Binasuan” dance and believes that talent is to be shared.

22.Jumped from the boulders of the Mag-aso Falls in Antequera with BNHS and DWCT friends in the late 1980s and jumped with friends at the Dauis Bridge at 1:00 a.m. of November 1, 1993.

23.Twenty (20) years after being VP for Public Relations of Sandugo Toastmasters Club, became Bohol Toastmasters Club Charter President in July 2014.

24.Served as president of the Regional Association of Development Information Officers (RADIO) Central Visayas in 2004-2005 and was convention director of the 24th RADIO - Central Visayas Convention in September 2018.

25.Has gone around Bohol, as well as Negros Oriental and Siquijor judging festival street dancing competitions and beauty pageants.

26.Was a victim of cyber bullying through a Facebook post in August 2017.

27.Offers to God through St. Joseph Worker all her sincere, honest efforts and experiences in the first-ever Saulog Tagbilaran street dancing competition in April 2013.

28.Became consultant and judge of Pilar’s “Panubig” Festival and Dauis’ “Panagat” Festival.

29.Took the EAT Danao zipline in 2007 with her Honey Jerome and Siquijor St. Francis of Assisi Apostoles and became “braver”.

30.Uses "Perla," especially for the face, and instead of eyebrow pencil, uses mascara to define the eyebrows.

31.Not experienced having a facial treatment ever and reverted to Kokuryu foundation that she used in her BLDT days.

32.Uses petroleum jelly to style hair and sports the bun hairstyle to avoid “mahangin sa labas” moments.

33.Can wear a P30-dress and a $5-gown and has no qualms about it.

34.“Low maintenance” as she buys “cheap” clothes (Expensive clothes and shoes are gifts from siblings).

35.Is “obsessive-compulsive” (OC) when it comes to folding clothes – by kind and by color.

36.Wished that she had smooth long, legs.

37.Would rather sweat by sweeping the yard (“manilhig”), rather than go to the gym.

38.“Ni-para” and nakasakay sa sakayan” with Cielo and a big bag to catch up with the Balite Lines in the middle of the sea, just to go home to Tagbilaran for Lola Pining’s urgent concern.

39.Considers organizing the Thailand-Philippines Youth Exchange Program (TPYEP) in October 2005 and October 2011 involving Kanlayaneesithammarat School English Program, Holy Spirit School, and Tagbilaran City Science High School among her greatest achievements.

40.Cried and thanked her daughter Cielo – the reason for her first international travel - while the China Southern Airlines took off 1 meter from the NAIA ground in May 2012.

41.Was “stopped” by a Los Angeles Airport security officer for trying to have a photo op near President Obama’s “Welcome to America” sign.

42.Wanted to see Hoover Dam after watching “Superman” in 1980 and fulfilled it in 2012 with her Mama Wincie and Cielo.

43.While in America, had visited California, Texas, Nevada, New York, and Minneapolis and was secretly hoping to have a photo op with a Hollywood Star.

44.Goes for what is “unique” rather than “stereotypes” and abhors corruption in any form.

45.Believes that a swan is a symbol of grace, beauty, and humility, and that something beautiful comes out from nothing by honest efforts and God’s grace.

46.Influenced by admiration for her Mama Wincie, Madame Imelda Marcos, US Olympic skater Dorothy Hamill, beauty queen and original Wonder Woman Lynda Carter, and media executive Charo Santos.

47.Aside from beauty pageantry, campus journalism, culture and arts, alumni associations, and federated parents-teachers associations, now into special children as part of advocacy.

48.As a keeper of memories, she likes having pictures of activities and important occasions.

49.Cherishes simple bonding moments with her husband Jerome, children Aj Wincielou Johanna “Cielo” and JF Regilbert Johnson “Renji”, and Mama Wincie.

50.Firmly believes in God’s power as felt in her life experiences; prays through St. Joseph, Mother Mary, Santo Nino, Padre Pio, St. John Paul, and St. Teresa of Calcutta, and is profoundly grateful to God for the very colorful journey.

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

Maximiel & the soundtrack of her life

I am what I am
And what I am needs no excuses
I deal my own deck
Sometimes the ace, sometimes the deuces
It's one life and there's no return and no deposit
One life so it's time to open up your closet
Life's not worth a damn till you can shout out
"I am what I am"
--I am What I Am

 

If she were a song, Bohol's fashion diva Maximiel said that she would be Pop Music.

 

“I love for the fact that it fits my vocal range," Maximiel told VRS in an exclusive interview.

 

Bohol's fashion diva Maximiel celebrated her nth birthday in full glitz and glamour. Contributed Photo

Maximiel is a singer and she can carry a tune. She proved this during her nth birthday concert dubbed as "Maxelicious" held last Feb. 9 at the Metro Centre Hotel.

 

And her guests realised there was something special about her with the deep, honeyed voice.

The "who's who" joined together to celebrate the beloved designer's birthday.

 

Guests included from Metro Tagbilaran Society: Meg Raynaldo, proprietor of D'Box, philanthropist Maria Thomas, international chef Sofia Reynaldo, Michael Yu and international florist Boy Dumadag of  Blue Grass Project, restaurateur Madz Borja of Acacia de Bubu, jetsetter Casty Fortich, businessman Roy Tan and Janin Tan, Bunny Caseñas Amores of B'Grazing Co, Geofry Damgo of Louis Vuitton Malletier USA, jeweller Dale Reimer, mining magnate Rachael Ngo,  BCCTV's boss Leizel Lim, socialites Ruby Guinto and Marilou Remoreras,  actress and singer Scarlet, sportsman Achilles Amores, businessman Paul Lucas, Margie Corales Dumadag of  Flower Design Studio in Maryland, USA and JP Maslog.

 

Her high school classmates also attended the event: Councilor Chito Mercado,  Yen Tibog of Gardenville, hotelier  Marilou  Abarado of AMS hostel), entreprenuer Lilet Mulle, businesswowan Zenaida Balatero,  Angelie Escuadro of the Supreme Court of the Philippines, educator Fe Deja, Dubai-based Zenaida Torillo, Jic Sampomones of Napocor, nurse Julieta Narido of Holy Spirit School, businesswoman Annette Skelton and Mary Ann Lantaka.

 

Maximiel proved that she's aging with grace (eternal beauty) as she made a grand entrance during her party and performed a song number for her guests.

 

"I feel like I am an empowered person, full of life, passion and love,” she said.

 

She wore two gowns for her big night, she herself designed.

 

Maximiel confessed she is a Broadway diva and a fan of James Bond. The Bond songs have been recorded by some of the greats of popular music, and hold a special place in the legacy of film soundtracks.

 

The birthday celebrator with her friends and guests. 

"Through the years, I love James Bond songs," she said.

 

And here are seven songs, the “soundtrack of her life” that mean so much to Maximiel:

 

1)I Am What I Am (By Gloria Gaynor)- "No matter what they say I am born this way I am what I am."

 

2)I Will Survive (by Gloria Gaynor)- "In spite of everything I'm a survivor."

 

3)Private Dancer (by Tina Turner)- "I'm a seductress."

 

4)Diamonds Are Forever (by Dame Shirley Bassey, a James Bond theme)-"Intense vocal range and musical sexiness."

 

5)Goldfinger (by Dame Shirley Bassey, a James Bond theme) - "Grandueur of the orchestra of James Bond  music transends me to another dimension."

 

6)Skyfall (by Dame Adele, a James Bond theme)- "I love the music of Adele of 'Broken Hearts'."

 

7)Writing's on the Wall (by Sam Smith, another Bond theme)- "It speaks of risking your life to someone."

 

Diamonds never lie to me,
For when love's gone,
They'll lustre on.
Diamonds are forever, forever, forever.
Diamonds are forever, forever, forever.
Forever and ever.
--Diamonds Are Forever

 

 

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42 couples tie knot in
Tagbilaran mass wedding

 

At least 42 couples tied the knot in a mass wedding on Valentine’s Day, February 14, despite concerns over the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

 

They exchanged vows during the “Kasalan sa Tagbilaran sa Valentine’s Day” at the Tagbilaran City Hall atrium.

 

But before the ceremony, the couples had to follow some precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the virus.

 

Personnel from the city health office had to check their body temperatures, including those of their guests, said Chris John Torralba, chief of the City General Services Office.

 

Masks and alcohol were also given to the couples and their guests.

 

The mass wedding was officiated by Tagbilaran City Mayor John Geesnell Yap II, who encouraged couples to remain committed and “in love” with each other.

 

Tagbilaran's First Lady Jane Censoria Yap also shared precious lessons about love and marriage.

 

Local Civil Registry Head Virgilia Incog facilitated the event in coordination with the city mayor’s office.

 

The oldest couple who got married were Rey Gultiano, 44, and Mary Rose Balena, 34, both residents of this city.

 

At least 42 couples exchanged “I dos” in the annual civil mass wedding at the Tagbilaran City Hall on Friday, February 14. Photo courtesy:  Fiel Angeli Gabin/CIO

The City Hall’s atrium was turned into a reception area, where the couples and their immediate families enjoyed the buffet.

 

The city government allotted a budget for bouquet, food, cake, wine, and gifts.

 

City hall employees also celebrated love when they were allowed to wear civilian clothes.

 

Torralba, in his memo, assigned colors that would show their love status: red as the color to wear for those in love or in happy relationships; red for in love/in a relationship; green for looking for number 2; pink for umaasa; yellow for single and ready to mingle; violet for its complicated; black for broken hearted; white for no boyfriend/girlfriend since birth; blue for friendzoned; grey for bitter, orange for assuming and for those wearing their office uniform, kill joy.

 

Torralba just wanted to make Valentine’s Day celebration fun for employees.

 

"But employees wearing red dominate here,” he said.
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Novel ideas to enjoy Valentine's Day in the time of coronavirus scare

As if nobody's talking about Valentine' Day. Mmmm..

With the novel coronavirus keeping people off the streets, love is not exactly in the air ahead of Valentine's Day on Friday.

But it does not have to be a drab occasion. There are still ways to celebrate the day, even if nCoV means "no cash on Valentine."

Here are some "novel" (pun intended) ideas to make Valentine's Day 2020 a memorable one - for all the right reasons.

Hit the beach for sun, sea and sand this Valentine's Day. Photo: LPU

1) Watch movies. Play (again and again!) your CDs of old, familiar love songs. As VRS has been saying (at the risk of sounding like, you gussed it, a broken record), there's nothing like old familiar songs (especially love songs) to make Valentine's Day extra-special, songs that have in one way or another something to do with episodes in our lives.

For instance,  Taylor Swift's "Love Story," The Supreme's "Baby Love," Minnie Riperton's "Lovin' You," The Righteous Brother's "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'," Madonna's "Justify My Love," Celine Dion's "The Power of Love," Whitney Houston's "Greatest Love of All," and Foreigner's "I Want to Know What Love Is."

The Terminal, Touch & Go, Answering Machine, Escape (The Pina-colada Song), Him and Let's Get Crazy Tonight by singer-writer Holmes are arguably some of the greatest hits of the '70s and '80s; while I'd Really Love To See You Tonight, Love Is The Answer, Just Tell Me You Love Me, Sad To Belong, We'll Never Have To Say Goodbye Again, What's Forever For and Where Do I Go From Here, etc., were among the Top 40 hits of the '70s and '80s and remained popular until the '90s, were the products of the musical talents of Coley, the other half of the popular '70s-'80s duo England Dan and John Ford Coley.

The Biggest Part of Me, You're The Only Woman and The Key To You are just four of the top hits of Grammy Award-winner Pack, the lead vocalist and guitarist of Ambrosia.

Several big hits performed by lead vocalist Jimi Jamison, such as The Search Is Over, Ever Since The World Began, Moment of Truth and Eye Of The Tiger.

Relive that famous spaghetti kiss from ‘Lady and the Tramp’!

2) Set a Facebook, Instagram and Twitter day to look greet your loved ones. Send them personal messages.

3) Go online shopping. You can have practically any gift imaginable shipped right to your doorstep!

4)  Face the world confidently with a beautiful heart! Visit Bohol's cosmetic surgeon Dr. April Lumuthang-Froilan of Touch of April General and Cosmetic SurgiCenter ( 4th floor, Lim Hong Khu Medical Arts and Wellness Center) and Dr. Armi Judy Piollo (3rd Floor, Tagbilaran Community Hospital).  Touch of April General and Cosmetic Surgicenter gives 20% discount in some services in celebrating Valentine's Day.

5) Have a make-over! Change your hair and make-up. Find the perfect dress! Call Bebei Tagoctoc, EP Relampagos, Jonathan Ucat, Ramil Dolauta, Donna Vitos, Rolly Ingking and Ryan Sines. For the latest collections, see Mikee Andrei,  EJ Relampagos, Charlow Arbasto,Omie Auza,  Maximiel, Aileen Pasagad, Kim Villamor, Christian Relator, Christian Bustrillos, Nikki Simporios, Ryan Sadudaquil, La'doie Aquino and Rose and Paul Ranara.

Your VRS with veteran journalist Ric V. Obedencio at Garcia Hernandez town, where the public beach is a favorite place for locals  to escape the weekend heat. Rather than fine sand, the shoreline is riddled with smooth, white pebbles and remains of bleached corals. Photo: Helen Castaño

6) Have a food trip, coffee break.  Visit
Figaro Coffee Company- Bohol (located across the University of Bohol), Lantaw, Bohol Bee Farm, Tarsier Botanika, Bring House and Gerarda's.

7) Go for a hike together. Couples who hike together stay together—or something like that. With Valentine’s falling on a Friday this year, that gives you a whole weekend’s worth of opportunities to get your hearts pumping—for real.

8) Hit the beach for sun, sea and sand! Bohol just abounds with gorgeous beaches from north to south, east to west.

9.  Give her fresh flowers. Red rose has an impact!

10.  Watch the sunset at K of C to remember your  love story.Remember,  the first stab of love is like a sunset, a blaze of color -- oranges, pearly pinks, vibrant purples.

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This is not fake news: Residents of Garcia Hernandez are apprehensive of the presence of an international cargo vessel from China which has been docked here since Friday to load limestone.

According to the village chief Joeritz Baybay, although the 22 Chinese crew members were not allowed to disembark from the vessel, several residents of Barangay West Canayaon were opposed to its presence in the village due to the threat of 2019 novel coronavirus (nCov).

MV Fortune Tiger came  from China and arrived at the waters off Barangay West Canayaon on Feb. 4 to load limestone at the town's Philippine Mining Service Corporation (PMSC).

Baybay said the personnel of BOQ and municipal health office boarded the ship to check on the health of the crew.

Since none of the crew members showed  symptoms of the nCov, the vessel was allowed to drop anchor on Friday morning. 

Barangay officials carefully monitor the activities of the Chinese crew.

Still, the presence of Chinese crew members, who were wearing masks, didn't sit well with many of the residents in the village.

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STARS CONTINUE TO LINE UP FOR THE 92ND OSCARS

UTKARSH AMBUDKAR, SALMA HAYEK, BRIE LARSON, 

SPIKE LEE, RAY ROMANO AND REBEL WILSON

LOS ANGELES, CA – Show producers Lynette Howell Taylor and Stephanie Allain today announced the next wave of star presenters headed to the stage on the 92nd Oscars® telecast.  The Oscars will air live Sunday, February 9, on ABC.

The lineup includes Utkarsh Ambudkar, Salma Hayek, Brie Larson, Spike Lee, Ray Romano, and Rebel Wilson.

Previously announced Oscars presenters include Mahershala Ali, Zazie Beetz, Timothée Chalamet, Olivia Colman, James Corden, Penélope Cruz, Beanie Feldstein, Will Ferrell, Gal Gadot, Zack Gottsagen, Mindy Kaling, Diane Keaton, Regina King, Shia LaBeouf, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, George MacKay, Rami Malek, Steve Martin, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Anthony Ramos, Keanu Reeves, Maya Rudolph, Mark Ruffalo, Kelly Marie Tran, Sigourney Weaver and Kristen Wiig.

The 92nd Oscars will be held on Sunday, February 9, 2020, at the Dolby® Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood, and will be televised live on ABC at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.  “The Oscars Red Carpet Show” will air at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT.  The Oscars also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.