Saturday, January 30, 2021

The treasures of Vera

Vera Villocido as she turns 54: ' When you bargain to at least make it to 50! plus 4 is a bonus!'

"I don't feel 54!" says Vera Villocido, Wikipedia editor now the Marketing and Advertising Officer of  Holy Name University.
 
"A decade ago, I didn't think it was possible to make it to 50, " she laughed. 

Vera, or fondly called Chick by close friends and family, is an educator in Bohol and the United States. In 2010, she came home from her teaching post in the US. 

Her most treasured people?" My children- Josh Justin and Lux Julienne, Congressman Edgar Chatto, Rosalinda Paredes and Rev. Fr. Florante Camacho."

Her childhood treasures?  "The Sing Concert of Toti Fuentes in 1974 at DWCT Gym, Salingsing Alburanon (SANGA) Choir and piano recitals at Holy Spirit School."

On the occasion of her 54th birthday last Friday  (Jan. 29, 2021), Vera has 54 (actually, more!!!) good reasons to celebrate life.

1.Eldest daughter of PARO Nanong Villocido (+Justiniano Bolusa Villocido). 

2.Given the name Vera which means “truth” by her father.

3. Her baptism name is Valeria.

4. She loves Science! She finished BS Biology at University of the Philippines-Cebu. 

5. She also finished Bachelor of Science in Nursing at  Divine Word College-Tagbilaran  now Holy Name University. 

6. She holds an MA in Science Education. 

7. She has been a college instructor, high school science teacher and graduate school professor. 

7. She was Research Assistant at DWCT now HNU. 

8. She was one of the pioneers of the Bohol Poll trained by SWS. 

9. She was TWG on Environment of the USAID GOLD Project as alternate of Fr. Florante Camacho, SVD. 

10. She was one of the pioneer trainers in  Technology of Participation (ToP)

11. She has special training in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

12. She did a case study on the Tagbilaran City Dumpsite. 

13. She was an exchange teacher at the East Side Union High School District in San Jose, California in the United States of America. 

14. Her work at the East Side Cadet Academy allowed her to work with at-risk kids and give them a chance to get  a high school diploma. 

15. She petitioned for her to  family to join her in the US. 

16.  She took up continuing education courses at UC San Diego in United States of  America. 

17. She is the most prolific of the Filipino wikipedia editors (Pinay06). 

18. She is a trained paralegal in VAWC or Violence Against Women and Children. 

19. She is the past president of the Chocolate Hills Lady Jaycees. 

20. She has over twenty (20) years of experience in education, local governance and social development. 

21.  Her specialized  skills are in project management,  participatory processes and events, research, documentation, participatory local governance, social work and community community development. 

22. Her  consultancy assignments include The Asia Foundation as Project Coordinator of Turo Turismo. 

23. She managed the Tourism Senior High School Industry Linkage Program with the Bohol Association of Hotels Resorts and Restaurants (BAHRR)

24. She was the  coordinator of  the provincial and national launch of the Abot Alam program for Out of School Youth with DepEd.

25. She has also been the area coordinator of Synergeia Foundation in Bohol. 

26. She implemented the USAID-funded Hugpong sa Pagbangon Project. 

27. She was the documentation consultant of Provincial Road Management Facility of AusAid. 

Vera Villocido: 'This is my 54th birthday celebration - sand, sea and mangroves.'

28.She was also the documentation consultant/training officer of Metrocentre Hotel, South Palms Resort and BAHRR in the Industry SkillsGrant Scheme of the DOT-ADB-Canada Technical Assistance Project on Improving Competitiveness in Tourism in the Philippines. 

29. She was a high school science teacher at the East Side Union High School District in San Jose California from 2001. 

30. She was a college instructor at the Divine Word College of Tagbilaran now Holy Name University from 1992 - 2001. 

31. She was high school teacher at Holy Spirit School of Tagbilaran (1987-1988). 

32. Vera completed her degree in B.S. Biology from the University of the Philippines. 

33.She was one of the little children in "The Sing Concert" of Toti Fuentes in 1974 at the DWCT Gym. 

34. She did a cameo role as Bibiana in the stage play  "Teatro Porvenir"- the Life and Times of Andres Bonifacio as a playwriter. 

35. She has over twenty (20) years of experience in education, local governance and social development. 

36. Her specialized  skills are in project management,  participatory processes and events, research, documentation, participatory local governance, social work and community community development. 

37. Her  consultancy assignments include The Asia Foundation as Project Coordinator of Turo Turismo. 

38. She managed the Tourism Senior High School Industry Linkage Program with the Bohol Association of Hotels Resorts and Restaurants (BAHRR). 

39.She was the coordinator of  the provincial and national launch of the Abot Alam program for Out of School Youth with Department of Education. 

40. She reads all of Robert Ludlum, Tom Clancy and John Grisham. 

41.She implemented the USAID-funded Hugpong sa Pagbangon Project. 

42. She plays the piano and organ. 

43. She loves to sing minus one and karaoke. 

44. She listens to Bukas Palad Ministry, UP MADZ and Chorus Paulinus choirs. 

45. She loves the religous songs of Don Moen and Fr. Arnold Zamora. 

46. She designs using Canva. 

47. She makes vidoes using Quik and Filmora Go. 

48. She has mastered facilitating zoom events. 

49. She manages at least four Facebook pages. 

50. She is admin of at least 5 Facebook Groups. 

51. She is the Wikipedia writer/ major editor of all SVD schools in the Philippines. 

52. She started almost all stubs of Wikipedia articles of Bohol. 

53. She owns Beautiful Hearts Consultancy Services. 

54. She is a survivor of CHF and cardiomyopathy. 

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


Saturday, January 23, 2021

Sexy Talk with Veegee, Amanda & Andrew

Veegee Doria on being sexy: 'Sexy is simply being confident on how you project your body.' Photo:  Mac Gaso/ Mac Gaso Photography and Kanike Padilla/Kanike Photography 



Veegee Doria, Amanda Noriega and Andrew Baker have many things in common: students, print and commercial models managed by The Art Nouveau (TAN) Models, and campus pageant winners. 
 
They have dominated headlines in the past years winning in modeling searches and campus pageants —  young personalities in the province ready to rise to the next level. 

Veegee, 19, was crowned Miss Sevilla Bentig 2017 and Miss Holy Name University (HNU) Intramurals 2018. 

"I want to become  a successful person and to inspire other people," Veegee said. 

Amanda, 15, made waves in 2018 as Miss Pearl Bahrain fourth placer.  Despite being relatively new to modeling, she is a sought-after TAN model. 

If you're an avid fan of Mister and Miss University of Bohol, you may recognize Andrew, 19, as Mister UB 2019.  But it was his being a TAN model that catapulted Andrew to "stardom."

"I wanna be a pilot or a professional host," Andrew said. 

Asked why Veegee, Amanda and Andrew will still be rising "stars" in accordance with their already-thriving careers or talent potential, TAN manager Roger Ryan "Khim" Magtagad told VRS, “Aside of being handsome, beautiful and smart, they are hardworking and dedicated. They are now making their names and soon will conquer the stage."

Andrew Baker on being sexy: 'Sexy is how a being flare with his/her worked out body with daring poses and techniques.' Photo: Mac Gaso/Mac Gaso Photography and Kanike Padilla/ Kanike Photography 



Khim added," “Because of their personalities and passion, I have seen and observed that they are all dedicated and willing to learn and grow."

Since Veegee, Amanda and Andrew are on sexy mode, VRS let them answer a few “sexy” questions.

What is sexy to you?
Veegee: "Sexy is simply being confident on how you project your body." 
Amanda: "Sexy is about how you show up in the world with full of confidence." 
Andrew: "Sexy is how a being flare with his/her worked out body with daring poses and techniques." 

What makes you feel sexy?
Veegee: "I chose not to feel insecure about my body." 
Amanda: "Everytime I workout, I feel sexier." 
Andrew: "Through my outfits and worked out body." 

Sexiest part of your body.
Veegee: "My eyes."
Amanda: "My hips." 
Andrew: "Probably, thighs or chest." 

Amanda Noriega on being sexy: 'Sexy is about how you show up in the world with full of confidence.' Photo: Mac Gaso/ Mac Gaso Photography and Kanike Padilla/Kanike Photography

Part of a man's body that you find sexiest - Veegee: "A man's smile." 
Amanda: "His fierce look."

Part of a woman's body that you find sexiest:
Andrew: "Details on a woman's neck, shoulders and chest."

Singer with a sexiest voice. 
Veegee: "Dua Lipa." 
Amanda:"Michael Buble." 
Andrew: "Billie Eilish." 

Sexiest movie. 
Veegee: "50 Shades of Grey." 
Amanda: "The Pursuit of Happynes." 
Andrew: "50 Shades of Grey." 

Sexiest clothes. 
Veegee: "Long Gowns." 
Amanda: "Long dress." 
Andrew: "For boys, Oversized open chest polos. For girls, body fit dresses." 

Sexiest perfume. 
Veegee: "Vanilla scented perfumes." 
Amanda: "Oil perfume." 
Andrew:"Lacoste."

Sexiest time of the day. 
Veegee: "Dawn." 
Amanda: "Night."
Andrew: "I prefer the night." 


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


Saturday, January 16, 2021

It's Ubi season again

It’s feel-good Sunday, January 17, 2021. Time out from nega sizzlers, time in for another inspiring story.

But first, some food for thought:

Hipolita Galgo Persigas

• From Steve Jobs: "Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma – which is living with the results of other people's thinking." 

• From Saint Mother Teresa: "Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier."

• From Benjamin Franklin:  "Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn." 

• From Helen Keller: "The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart."

And.... 

• Hipolita Galgo Persigas, 84, of Ubay town was laid to rest on Saturday, Jan. 16. "Go, for Adonai sends you. Go and Adonai will be with you. Adonai will guard your coming and going, now and forever. Amen."

• The "Managkot sa Candelaria" Hike for a Cause in Garcia Hernandez town on February 2, 2021. The charity event is organized by Helping Hand Movement of Garcia Hernandez. for youth leader Iris Cuadra who was diagnosed with papillary thyroid cancer. For inquiries, call or text 09565028869. 

• The January 23, 2021 opening of The Buzzz Cafe- Jagna. 

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One beauty (and brains) contest sorely missed by beauty-watchers is the Miss Ubi Festival Queen, launched in 2000, and scrapped for good, much to the sadness of fans. 

Larry Pamugas, Ph. D. : The 30-day Ubi festival 2021 will be filled with activities and contests.

Miss Ubi usually picked candidates from the towns which are “ubi” country--Alburquerque, Antequera, Baclayon,  Corella, Dagohoy,  Dauis, Dimiao , Garcia-Hernandez, Jagna,  Loay, Loboc, Mabini, Maribojoc, Panglao, Sikatuna, Tagbilaran, Ubay and Valencia-- from whom the winner is chosen in a pageant, promoting, yes of course, ubi (yam). 

Here’s a fond lookback at the Miss Ubi Honor Roll:

• Pinky Gica Beldia was the first Miss Ubi Festival Queen in 2000. It was held in Dauis town.

• Rhiz Nova Tagsip Arenas of Inabanga  was declared Miss Ubi Festival Queen 2004 and subsequently became Miss Bohol Sandugo 2004.  She was famous for her “Basta ubi Bohol, basta Bohol ubi."

• Jade Nica Obedencio of Balilihan was declared Miss Ubi Festival Queen 2012 in a low-budgeted and less fanfare search. 

Unfortunately, there has been no search because of lack of funds. 

There was a collective heave of a call for a yearly Miss Ubi Festival Queen but the interest waned in the succeeding years.

Where are they now? Throwback Sunday: 17 years ago the Ubi Festival Queen 2004 crown was won by Rhiz Nova Aranas of Inabanga town. The committee members were Fiel Angeli Araoarao-Gabin, Rany Gespert, Rico Guigue, Regil Gucor, Ivan, Maymay Legaspi, Dr. Amce Marie Pinos and Roxanne Monton. 



Well, the Ubi Festival 2021 is on January 25 to February 24.  Ubi (Dioscorea alata) growers and supporters will gather once more to honor the crop as a major agricultural product in the ubilandia. 

If the coronavirus was not around, shortly after the new year, the festive vibe would have been evident.

But Larry Pamugas, assistant provincial agriculturist, said the 30-day festival will be filled with activities and contests such as highest value of Ubi display, Ubi eating contest, best new Ubi processed products, Pinaka, literary and musical contests; and nightly entertainment and food fair.
 
The late environmental activist Zenaida Darunday said ubi is a healthy energy source with important nutritional benefits. The kinampay, the queen of all ubi varieties, is a good source of anthocyanin, a strong anti-oxidant. 

We are looking foward to buy different varieties of ubi --- kabus-ok, kinlot, balagon-on, binanag, tam-isan, apale, iniling, lima-lima, kot, bot and kinampay (the most aromatic ubi in the world) --- at low prices for our ubi desserts!!! 

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

Sunday, January 3, 2021

New year, new goals... Time to invest! (Part 2)

Many are eager to leave 2020 behind with all its ups and downs and we carry the learnings of an unprecedented year to New Year 2021. 

We're looking ahead to a hopeful new 12 months, refreshed and ready for goal setting. 

Here’s how to set goals while we continue to face uncertainty due to the pandemic by some of our Boholano friends. Please listen! 

Maria Vanessa Cadorna-Aumentado: 'Choose silence over a pointless/nonsense fight and always choose to be happy.'

Maria Vanessa Cadorna-Aumentado- My 2021 goals are more on
reflecting deeply and giving importance to all the lessons I've learned the past year especially because of the pandemic. Applying the following lessons to the present time: Be more appreciative to all the blessings in life (big and small things);  value the love of family and true friends; be more productive; stay fit and healthy;  spread love, kindness and positivity ; choose silence over a pointless/nonsense fight; and always choose to be happy. 

Ima Curiba- As financial advisor, this year I aim to educate more Boholanos in securing their family's future in many aspects including finances thru the following needs: health, savings, income protection, life insurance and investments.  Encouraging them with the variety of benefits an insurance can help our lives. And convince them to never fear to start ahead.

Elvie Bongosia- To start and maintain a healthier diet and spend less time online. 

Feby Ingking-  This 2021, I've got to focus more on inner peace, spreading happiness and staying healthy.

Pier Giorgio Salamat- My goals: To develop more of our family business, to keep myself and family members fit and healthy and to continue doing our church and social responsibilities. 

Vera Villocido- Embrace the new normal!  Adapt them in my work and personal life thus being productive, relevant, and useful. Continue to form more linkages! Synergize!  Inspire!  Motivate! Engage! Innovate!

Dr. April Lumuthang-Froilan- My 2021 goals: Maintain positive attitude despite the hustle and bustle brought by the pandemic, Improve physical health since I'm not getting any younger. So, I have to exercise when I have time and choose healthy diet at the same time; passionately enjoy my chosen career as cosmetic surgeon to adorn the people of Bohol;  and strive to attain financial stability by eliminating nonsense expenses in order to increase our savings for bigger plans and responsibilities. 2020 has been a very stressful year. So this year, I need to find time to relax and just enjoy life since stress can really be a killer. I'm going to strengthen my faith in Him and become the woman God created me to be. 

Dr. April Lumuthang-Froilan- 'Passionately enjoy my chosen career to adorn the people of Bohol.'

Eden Descallar-Ceballos- To take care of our health, grow Globe's business and finish our dream home.

Jholly Lim- Learning new skills to improve knowledge for personal development and career advancement.

Tiara Lourdes Torero- My goal for 2021 is to ensure that my family and I remain healthy and will survive whatever the year may bring, with God's guidance and protection.

Clyde Ebojo- The Year 2020 got me into some significant personal battles that I considered life changing. This 2021, I've decided to save more and make it a habit so when plans throw off, I am more ready. Fulfill my life long dream  of becoming a composer/singer/artist. I will definitely regret to not even try at all. I shall record more songs, sing some of them and develop quality music videos. Be more forgiving because 2020 taught me that when we forgive, we will also be forgiven.
Holding grudges is no good at all. By that, I moved on from a lot of pain and start being happy with even simple things.

Karla Tirol Magno- My goal is to continue on my vision to keep growing and learning as I go. I pray for more business opportunities and to expand my ventures. Hopefully in business, life and love.

Grace Ramada, Ph. D.- These are my goals for 2021: Spend more time with family and other special persons, enrol in another post-degree program, learn at least two skills (swimming for physical fitness and singing  (psalmist), get a health insurance and build up an emergency fund. 

Mikey Gatal- To finish the dream house I am building in Totolan, Dauis sometime this year and hopefully I can return home for a well-deserved vacation. 

Police Officer Melinda Mendez-Balo- My goals for 2021: To become more healthy and fit to avoid being infected by viruses and bacteria and so I need to work hard to achieve it. Aside from that, I would like to spend more time with my kids during my days off. Be more productive in my work at the Bohol-Panglao International Airport and do more intensified advocacies on our campaign against women and children abuses within our Airport Community by conducting more information drives. Most of all, I want to become more prayerful and be more spiritual as we really need to be closer to our Almighty God to guide us, protect us from all works and snares of the devil now working to ruin souls around the world. 

Hanae Katirin Gacera Galido: 'Invest more in properties and life insurance. In this time of uncertainty, saving is the key.'

Gerwin Yudelmo- To develop self and become a more better friend, son and citizen of the world.

Perlita Palen, Ph.D.- To always pray to God that we will live a healthy and a happy life. I also pray for a miracle that everything will be back to  normal. I hope I can go home to the Philippines with no hassle, no more quarantine and no Coronavirus protocol anymore.  

Hanae Katirin Gacera Galido- The year 2020 was still fruitful and kind to me and my family despite the worldwide threat of the pandemic. I had some plans unmet and unfavorable, but I have no regrets. Setting my goals for this year gives me excitement to no end.  I will strive to have an ultimate relationship with God, for strength both physical and emotional to withstand all the trials that will come along my way. 

My goal #1: To start a business. Putting up a business is not easy but I rather try and work hard for it because I believe it's a good fall back. 

My goal #2: To get promoted to a higher rank which means better compensation and benefits. 

My goal #3: Travel and leisure. My job as a manager eats up almost all of my time. Sad to say, I only have a little quality time spent with my family (three lovely kids), parents and siblings. I have to plan a leisure time with them this year. 

My goal #4: Build my dream house. Who doesn't dream of having a house of our own? With my purchased lot in 2020 hopefully I can start building the structure this year. 

My goal #5: Invest more in properties and life insurance. In this time of uncertainty, saving is the key. I have to cutdown unnecessary spending instead invest my money in acquiring properties. Then, secure my family's health and life by having life insurance. 

#My goal #6: Read more informative books to keep my senses active especially in updating my knowledge that concerns my job. 

These are my vital goals for this year 2021. Hopefully with the help of God and my loving family plans will be materialized. However, I should not rush things, I'll take this one step at a time.

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


Friday, January 1, 2021

New year, new goals

2021 is just three days old.  We bid goodbye to 2020 - a year when many of us have suffered setbacks in different areas of our lives- and we carry the learnings of an unprecedented year to New Year 2021.  

 

VRS asked some Boholanos what are their goals and wishes to feel great in 2021. 

 

Ralph Barajan- To be a better father, husband and competent public servant.

 

Many are eager to leave 2020 behind with all its ups and downs and we carry the learnings of an unprecedented year to New Year 2021. 



Chris John Torralba, Ph.D.- 2021 goals: 1. learn how to drive, 2. spend less time online, 3. drink more water, 4. reconnect with old friends and 5. spend more quality time with my family.

 

Atty. David Maulas- For 2021, I will strive to balance time for family and time for work. One thing I have realized in 2020 is the supposedly obvious fact that no amount of money can buy time. And time is best spent with family.

 

Usec. Pat Ruiz- My goals are: reduce poverty  and empowered Filipinos; healthy society and economy and for myself living well. 

 

Lourdes Brunidor-  First and foremost to maintain a healthy lifestyle for the family to combat covid...to be more prayerful and grateful for all the blessings especially for the gifts of life, family and work.

 

Atty. Ted Lagang- Continue being an inspiration for others so as to create optimism in the midst of the pandemic. Have a cheerful and safe new year everyone!!!

 

Marianito Luspo- To survive with grace intact.

 

Benjie Oliva- I have two goals for 2021:

1.) Finish my PhD in Community Development and 2.) Start my Construction and Trading Business. 

 

Scarlet Geulen-Boiser- I hope that this pandemic would be over. Personally, I hope to start and succeed in my intermittent fasting diet program so that I can diminish huge pounds for a healthier Scarlet! And I wish success on our foodie online business as well. I just beg God that He would  keep  my loved ones healthy and sound this year and in the years to come. 

 

Adonis Damalerio- Good health for me and my family. And, a second child if matagaan pa kaha :) 

 

Joy Bonita Sevilla- 2021 is a year full of hope and promise. I look forward to a much better year just like everyone else. The uncertainties and hardship of the past year has taught us invaluable lessons on how to survive in the midst of a pandemic. But with faith in God and a relentless determination to overcome life's challenges, I can only wish the best for everyone. May this year bring out our indomitable spirit of resiliency. I hope we all can find peace, serenity and contentment and be able to live as normally as we can with COVID. Cheers!

 

Ariel Fullido-  This year 2021, I would like to rise up from the ashes just like Phoenix, get up, stand up, and fix everything what's  been left off in 2020; and in God's perfect timing, this yeat let's get back to business......this year let's get back to business! 

 

Fiscal Ingemar "Pinoy Aquaman" Macarine- I stopped eating pork, beef, and non-organic chicken in 2017. My transition from the previous diet to a vegan diet last April 30, 2020, was easy as I only had to remove organic chicken and fish from my daily meals. Two months after adopting the new diet, I shed off 5kilos, my blood pressure normalized, and I have no more asthma attacks. My only concern during the first few weeks of my vegan diet was the source of fruits and vegetables since I reside 54km from the city. My solution is to eat only whole foods, which means no processed vegan products, and buy supplies from the local producers. At least I can minimize damage to the environment by eliminating the transportation of food from abroad and help the Philippine economy by buying local products. So my goal this year is to maintain my vegan diet because it is healthy for me, good for the environment, and supports the local economy.

 

Edik Dolotina- This is more of a wish than goal. A wish for a virus-free 2021 where people can move freely and greet each other with a hug or a kiss, or meet and greet in public without restrictions, and go home to families whenever they want to.

 

Fr. Roel Lungay- I hope it’ll be a brighter 2021 health-wise. 

Along with the new year come new beginnings, a new hope and for others a fresh start as the new year will not wash away every challenge, especially when it comes to the pandemic.



 

Christian James Memije-  This 2021, I want to achieve my dreams. I’d like to have a sound mind and body. I’m building my physique this year so that I will be able to do more works and be productive without getting fatigue. I want to explore more and improve my talents especially in singing, acting, and modeling. I also want to be part of a movie that’s why I’m preparing myself so that when that time comes, I’ll be ready. 2020 was a year of rest and meditation for me and I think 2021 is a good year to rekindle my passion and for self development.

 

Walter and Leslie Ramirez- No New Year's resolution for us, just a brighter hope for another year from the Creator of Great things. 

 

Jerome Magallen, Ph. D. - Last year was a real struggle. Like the most, I also became anxious on many things especially in financial matters. Honestly, one of the goals that I set is to look for solutions. One way is to set an emergency fund, control our expenses and eliminate unhealthy spending habits. Other goals for this year include strengthening of self-care and also career advancement and growth.

 

Fatima Mapesos- Vision is everything to dream enormously big. Being persistent in anything I do makes all the difference. Setting my goal in every day life gives me meaning in life. I stop playing small for true success is all about working towards meaningful goals and dreams. I never loose sight of my dream because that's where I aspire where I'm headed for. I'm focused. It's never too late to redirect and adjust my sail just to reach my desired destination. 

 

Jonathan Ocat- My goal this 2021 is to make something with my career to be able to survive this pandemic (COVID-19 crisis). I am hoping that our bridal shop "Sean'iah Boutique" would grow and cater to more clients this year 2021. Of course, I am praying for the fast recovery of my mother who suffered a mild stroke. I am hoping everything will be okey in God's perfect time.  

 

Ramon Caresiosa- A brighter and safer year ahead of us despite the health problem(Covid virus) that we're experiencing today that can be considered a havoc in our life. May God strenghten our Faith and protect us from harm and damnation.

 

Shandy Mission-   I have to make small changes in my daily routine to encourage self-care and promote better health. I consider health and wellness as my priority this year. I have also to master my craft, as hair and make up artist, to gain more clients. I am hoping this year will  be a glorious year for me, my work and most especially my beloved family. 

 

Roger Ryan Magtagad- This 2021, I am taking it all in, all the challenges, lessons and blessings. Right now, I am still making my way to my passion and goal. I've had numerous ups and downs due to the pandemic. It was a rollercoaster and it was very hard but I felt fulfilled. I have to deprogram my perception and points of view of how I should think, behave and feel to be accepted. I have learned so much about myself, met new family and friends, and I have found my purpose. I will give my best and all for my The Art Noveau Models because this serves as my hope, inspiration, strength, happiness and my all.

 

 

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

 



Saturday, December 26, 2020

2020 was unpredictable

While 2020 may go down in history as a year that many people would prefer to forget, VRS takes time to weigh in on the top moments worth remembering. Contributed Photos

As the New Year approaches, it seems like many people would prefer to forget 2020. 

 

Take a look back at the key moments of 2020 as they were reported by your trusted VRS.

 

The province of Bohol closed its borders on March 16, 2020 as part of its "preventive measure" against the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

 

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

 

The COVID-19 pandemic is confusing and frightening millions of people as it refused to die down.

 

It has redefined social graces--- no beso-beso, hugs and kisses, and shaking hands. People are reminded to observe "social distancing" --- that is three feet away or farther from each other.

 

The virus has also affected social life. Birthday parties, weddings, concerts, graduations and the like have either been postponed or cancelled.

 

We were advised for home quarantine to protect the whole community. 

 

Tourism affected

With business disrupted and provinces on lockdown to contain the pandemic, the economy slumbers. 

 

Most projects are at a standstill. Beauty pageants and events have been cancelled and postponed.

 

So sad the virus has all but completely shut down their industry.

 

Doing hair and makeup professionally involves face-to-face, one-on-one contact — the very thing that the entire world has been told to avoid to stop the spread of the virus. 

 

For the freelance make-up and hairstylists  their jobs are their primary source of income, they are left to find creative ways to survive financially and emotionally. 

 

But the pandemic didn't stop them to makeup lost time and to render community volunteerism during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

 

They have volunteered to paint social distancing markers around Tagbilaran City. They also helped to check the home quarantine pass and monitor social distancing in both public and private establishments. 

 

"This quarantine I would say is life changing. It had swayed me how many times, made me blank for awhile and made my life uncertain at some point. I belong to the events industry that is greatly affected by this pandemic. No events means no job and no job means no money and no food to eat, " shared Roger Ryan" Khim" Magtagad of The Art Noveau who volunteered to assist frontliners at malls and public markets. 

 

Resort owners, especially on Panglao Island, Bohol’s tourism jewel, were bracing for tough times ahead especially that they were relying on local tourists to boost sales during summer months following the drop of foreign arrivals due to COVID-19.

 

Despite the coronavirus threat, Bohol has reopened its door to tourists in a bid to revive the ailing economy.

 

 

ECQ aid

The lockdown has left the most vulnerable communities struggling for food – the local government units and community-led volunteers are leading efforts to help.

 

The city government of Tagbilaran  distributed a sack of rice per household in a bid to keep residents at home during the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) period due the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

 

Mayor John Geesnell “Baba” Yap II said all 27,000 households in the city’s 15 villages would receive one sack of rice.

 

The provincial capital of Bohol has 100,000 residents.

 

The provincial government has allocated P150-million for the staple food subsidy program for the distribution of 8 kilos of premium rice subsidy for every household to mitigate the socio-economic impact of the pandemic.

 

Last November, some displaced tourism workers in Loboc town opted not to claim their rice assistance from the provincial government after they found out that these smelled moldy and infested with “bukbok."

 

The National Food Authority (NFA) –Bohol also clarified that the rice distributed was free of any weevils as NFA follows international standards in good warehouse-keeping. 

 

Online learning

Six-year-old Arvin Jay Curangcurang, a Grade 2 student in Alicia town, who climbs a small tree house to attend his online classes becomes the face of how teachers and students suffered deep in online learning

 

Determined to support his education, the family built a "tree house" in an elevated area where the signal is strong enough for his online schooling after physical meetings have been cancelled to prevent the spread of the COVID-19.  However, the entire sessions have been bogged down by interconnectivity issues.

 

Broadband access has been a problem in Bohol province long before the pandemic, with limited competition, high prices, slow speeds, and a simple lack of coverage especially in remote areas. 

 

In Alburquerque town, youth leaders and volunteers at Barangay Bahi, do not mind pushing a cart loaded with school and hygiene materials for more than a kilometer as long as they reach children who want to continue learning despite challenges posed by the health crisis. 

 

The tech gap isn’t going to disappear anytime soon. 

 

Gardening boom

The coronavirus pandemic has set off a global gardening boom as an antidote, extending the promise of contact with something real. 

 

Some of my friends who are  avid plant collectors even during the pre-pandemic period say they've noticed the huge price difference of the plants between now and before the March lockdown.

 

Elvie Bongosia has thrice visited the exhibit  to buy some succulents to add to her collections. As a means to destress, she started caring for succulents and cacti, until she eventually tended to variations ornamental plants.

 

Elvie, who has been dubbed a certified "plantita" - a portmanteau of plant and the Filipino word for aunt (tita) -- because of her love for plants, has amassed more than 200 potted plants in her home and has transformed her abode into a fresh green spot. 

 

Other plant enthusiasts, Merlyn Diez-Bantugan and Fiel Angeli Araoarao-Gabin, have said plants give them joy that money can't buy. 

 

 

New discoveries

Christian Gio Bangalao, Jestoni Alagon, Fel Vincent Vargas and Geo Rodell Nacorda accidentally found the megalodon fossilized tooth while hiking in a mountainous barangay in Maribojoc, the second Megalodon specimen found in the town.

 

The tooth fossil, that measures 7.6 centimeters x 6.5 cm, in Barangay Jandig, was donated to the National Museum last May 28.

 

Most fossils of the megalodon were determined to date back to the middle Miocene epoch to the Pliocene epoch, approximately 15.9 million to 2.6 million years ago.

 

This year we discovered new tourist attractions: Rolling Hills and Fascination Farm-Home of Dragon fruits in Ubay town and  Pulang Yuta ni Lolo Agaton in Barangay Sohoton in Calape town. 

 

The food and restaurant business has been one of the worst-hit by the pandemic. But the pandemic has spawned several food trends in the province. Among these is baked sushi—deconstructed sushi rolls baked in a casserole. Izzybites becomes a household name with many flavors. 

 

Many food entrepreneurs brought their business online amid the lockdown.

 

 

Bohol's Pride 

Miss Bohol Pauline Amelinckx brought honor and pride to Bohol. She was crowned 3rd runner-up in the Miss Universe Philippines (MUP) 2020.  She was also named Ambassador for Tourism by the  MUP organization. 

 

Amelinckx was crowned Miss Bohol 2017.

 

Vanessa Sarno, 17, reaped three gold medals in the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) Online Youth World Cup last November hosted  by Lima, Peru.

 

The pandemic also saw the birth of "The Doctor Is In" by Dr. Doloreich Dumaluan. His program in social media gives information about health and how COVID-19 affects health and economy. 

 

Spread Kindness

Vinegar opened opportunities for Gerwin Yudelmo, a former call center agent in Cebu City, who lost his job in Cebu City due to the pandemic and quarantined for almost a month.  It’s hard, Yudelmo conceded, but he tried to remain calm and positive. 

 

Yudelmo, 30, said his dip--Sawsaw Bojol Sukang Binaryo-- is now a well-loved blended spiced coconut sap vinegar. 

 

While he was struggling for himself, he and his friends founded the "#ProjectHope" with other volunteers to help fellow locally stranded individuals or LSIs in Cebu.  They have distributed cash, relief packs, canned goods and even a wheelchair.

 

He said most of them did not have food, water, and place to stay since they had lost their jobs after the enhanced community quarantine was implemented.

 

"I just can't ignore. It's a time for listening and caring," Yudelmo said.

 

Yudelmo went home to Inabanga to rest and take new adventure in life. While at the quarantine facility, he  thought of starting a business.  His new business also helps other farmers who are also affected by the pandemic. 

 

"We rise by lifting each other," said Yudelmo. 

 

The pandemic also questions our faith. It’s easy to lose faith when pain is plaguing our mind, body, and soul. But no matter how hard the situation is, no matter how unsure the world is, we can count on finding some strength in G-d’s word.

 

Taking risks to deliver the news

Last March 16, your VRS (the lone mediaman) witnessed when Police Colonel Jonathan Cabal, then provincial director of the Bohol Provincial Police Office, implemented the lockdown. 

 

At times like this, media is crucial in bringing life-saving information.

 

Like the other frontliners (medical workers, policemen, security guards, barangay officials, et al), members of the Bohol media also take risks oftentimes at the expense of their loved ones.

 

Their task is to deliver the stories, especially updates on the raging virus, right into your home. 

 

In telling the stories of frontline workers and keeping government officials’ feet held to the fire, they’ve become frontline workers themselves.

 

Among them are Rey Tutas of dyRD and Dave Charles Responte of dyTR. They do it the normal way, still very visible in the field gathering facts for news. They also use their own social media accounts for real-time news updates. 

 

Othern frontliners are dyRD's Jun Gutierrez, Allen Doydora and Willie Maestrado and dyTR's Joshua Fullido, Ern Pahayahay and Lordina Vergara. 

 

Bob Galero is regularly anchoring his programs at both stations. Veteran journalist Ric Obedencio is busy doing the round in Bohol for big news breaks. So does Helen Castano. 

 

The senior anchors have been enjoined to stay home most of the time. They opted to do remote broadcasting on selected dates (including dyRD's veteran broadcasters Chito Visarra and Fred Araneta and dyTR's veteran broadcastersTed Ayeng, Pedi Bolanio and Ardy Araneta). 

 

As frontliners, they carry on and do the work they think Boholano people deserve.

 

Personal

On a personal note, I want to express my sincere appreciation and thanks to the Association of Writers and Radio Announcers Philippines Inc. (AWRAPI) for recognizing VRS with the Writer of the Year (Feature) Award. I am truly humbled and honored to receive it.

 

Thank you also to Globe Media Excellence Awards 2020. It's already an honor to be a finalist in three categories. Baruch HaShem!

 

I want to sincerely thank all our readers and followers who have supported, inspired and shared with us.  You are the reason for our optimism and belief that 2021 will bring only positive news. VRS wishes you to enter it prepared, healthier and happier. 

 

2020 was unpredictable, to say the least. 

 

May G-d illuminate your life and the lives of all those around you forever and may He bless you with good health and material and spiritual abundance!

 

 

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