Sunday, August 4, 2013

Miss Bohol Sandugo 2013 to be dethroned? Child Wonder Baby Jane returns to Bohol



Miss Bohol Sandugo 2013 Brigitte Burato to be dethroned?
• Baby Jane finds her family after 51 years through Facebook

Wake-uppers:
Sandugo 2013 streetdance
Scene: Long lines in the last day of registration for barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK). The 10-day registration for the village polls started July 22 and ended July 31. There was no extension of the deadline.

Scene: Allegations of vote-buying rang loud in last Friday’s Philippine Councilors League (PCL)-Bohol elections.

Scene:  Twelve were rescued from a capsized motor boat in Balicasag Island, Panglao on July 29 after they were hit by big waves. Last July 26, two were dead and 17 were rescued from a capsized motor pump boat in the same place.

Leo Udtohan with Marian Rivera
Scene: There were 6 contingents in this year's Sandugo Street Dancing 2013. The event became colorful with the participation of GMA stars: Bianca King, Rafael Rosell, Dion Ignacio, JC Tiuseco, Diva Montelaba and Mikael Daez.

Scene: Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and LPA failed to dampen Kapuso fans in Tagbilaran City, Bohol for the Kapuso Night last July 28. Fans were waiting for Kapuso hot couple Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera.

Scene: Birthday greetings to fashion icon EJ Relampagos who’s turning a new leaf last Friday (Aug. 2). He shares a birthday with Bhangz Orillosa and Anthony Damalerio. EJ said, “Words will never be enough to express my gratitude to everyone who has become a part of my life in one way or another... I will forever be grateful for all that has been and all that will be. Thank you so much Lord for giving me this kind of life... it’s not perfect but it’s truly wonderful!!! God loves you all, so do I!”

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Barely two weeks after her reign as Miss Bohol Sandugo (MBS) 2013, Brigitte Tanoja Burato has faced an issue that could almost finish her reign as Miss Bohol Sandugo.

Miss Bohol Sandugo 2013 Brigitte Burato is almost dethroned when she was about to join the Miss Silka-Bohol 2013. Courtesy: Miss Bohol Sandugo Fanpage/ SideRoom Studio
The stunning 18-year-old Alician beauty brought great honor to her hometown but might have to give up her crown due to “not abiding by the rules and regulations” set by the MBS committee. She is not allowed to join any beauty pageant in the province until she can complete her reign.

“The problem of Miss Alicia Brigitte Burato is she has an attitude problem,” said the socialite VRS. “She should inform first the MBS committee if she has to join another beauty pageant.”

According to another VRS embedded in the beauty pageant office, Burato was supposed to join the Miss Silka Bohol 2013 held last Friday.

Before winning MBS, Burato had competed in quite a number of beauty pageants. She has been a consistent number one in the Dean’s List of the School of Business and Economics at the University of San Carlos, Cebu City where she is also the reigning 2013 Miss SBE- University of San Carlos.

Beauty-watchers and supporters have agreed that MBS is the oldest, highest, most prestigious and most popular beauty pageant in the province.

“What if she will not win in Miss Silka? Di ba uwaw?” one beauty-watcher, who asked for anonymity, said. “Okay ra if she will join Bb. Pilipinas or Mutya at least to level up.”

Last Friday morning, Burato had a closed-door heart-to-heart talk with the MBS organizers.

VRS had watched Miss Silka last Friday afternoon, and thanked God, Burato had backed-out from the contest.

“If naa pa, aw dethroned jud,” said a popular hair and make-up artist.

If she was dethroned, there will be a new face of the crown. Supporters of MBS first runner-up Shaila Mae Rebortera of Baclayon were heard saying that she was happy ''to be taking over this job.''

The rules said: The Miss Bohol Sandugo should have never been married, never been pregnant and in good health and of good moral character during her reign. She pledges to abide by the rules and regulations set by the organizers and to support and participate in the activities initiated by the committee.

In the history of MBS pageant, no one has been dethroned for failing to perform the numerous duties expected of a MBS titleholder. However, there were those who were replaced or not completed their reign.

“The beautiful winners have often been found to get involved in various scandals and then been forced to resign from their glory,” said VRS.

At least two MBS titlists were stripped of their titles, including Maria Niña Cubello, MBS 1999, officially did not finish her reign because she got married. She was replaced by Jennifer Ejoc. The beauteous MBS 2001 Jenny Justiniane has been stripped of her crown. She got married before she finished her reign. Her first runner-up Vanessa Cadorna replaced her. Although they were replaced by the organizers, Cubello and Justiniane were generally regarded as winners by the MBS committee and by the public.

Another VRS revealed that beauty pageants in Bohol have no contract so definitely the winners don't know their roles during their reign.

"There should be a written agreement or contract between the winner and the organizer what to expect and what to do during the reign,” said VRS.

To paraphrase a pageant cliché: Once a Miss Bohol Sandugo is forever a Miss Bohol Sandugo.

“Swell-headedness is one that a beauty queen must avoid. She should keep the weight of her head normal and keep her feet firmly planted on the ground,” said VRS.

Note: VRS called and texted Brigitte Tanoja Burato for her side but she never replied.

Stand by for further development.

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Here’s a Facebook story you’re going to “like.”

Philippine Child Wonder in the 1960s Baby Jane or Jane Zenaida Galinato-Smith in real life is reconnected with her estranged family after she was “borrowed” more than fifty years ago.

Before and after...Baby Jane
Baby Jane embraced her siblings and relatives for the very first time during the 2nd Galinato Global Grand Gathering or GGGG held last week in Tagbilaran City, Bohol. 

She wasted no time, flying her family from USA, to meet her long-lost kin in Philippines.

"I think it's great to be able to finally meet them because for the longest time I thought I was the only child," a tearful Baby Jane said.  "Just make you feel I am finally home!"

At age 3, Baby Jane became a Child Wonder in the Philippines. She captured the hearts of the people through her singing and acting. She appeared in several films including “Siyam na Buhay ni Martin Pusa" topbilled by former President and now Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada (produced by Larry Santiago) in 1964.

After 51 years apart, Baby Jane and family reunited by Facebook.
When she was six years old, Baby Jane was brought to the US by her uncle Papa Lori (twin brother of her real father) and auntie (Siony). They promised to return her after two months, but it didn’t happen. She was gone.

According to relatives, Jane thought she was an only child. She was raised by a woman
who claimed to be her mother but was in reality she was her aunt.

In the US, Baby Jane became Janie Gee and continued singing. She appeared on The Dean Martin Show in 1967 and The Danny Thomas Show on May 22, 1968. She also did a guest shot for CBS-TV’s Dom De Luise summer show after she was seen on the Martin series. And she had appeared on various other programs, such as Art Linkletter show, The Woody Woodbury Show and ABC-TV’s “Operation: Entertainment” series. 

According to US newspapers, between the ages of 7 and 9, Janie toured military bases and hospitals, and did USO shows.

During the Galinato gatherings, the family didn’t forget to remember her.

What ever happened to Baby Jane?

Baby Jane with Dean Martin
Now 54-years-old, Baby Jane said she searched the web for clues after she learned that her real parents (Gallarza and Emilia Galinato) were in Bohol, Philippines.

"The family searched for her," Elizabeth Lamdagan-Haroun, Baby Jane’s cousin, said.  "We even thought Gigi Galon was Janie Gee. I think it was God's plan that we found her. We are all happy. Can you imagine 51 years? Thanks to Facebook."

"My family had prayed for this for years," her sister, Marivic Galinato-Robles, said. "Salamat sa FB kung wala ang FB di naming siya makikita. Facebook has brought us together.”

Lamdagan-Haroun said it was last year that they received an email from Baby Jane. The Facebook message was the first time she's been able to communicate with her siblings.

Tatay Gallarza’s last will was to look for Baby Jane.  He wrote, “We just want to let her know that we did everything possibly could to find her. Her brother and sisters are all married now and having a good lives. There’s not much time left in the world for us and we just want to see her and find out how she is doing and somehow let her know much we love and miss her and that all this happened because of my nature as a brother to share a loved one for my brother’s happiness even for a short span of time. Please help me find my daughter.”

Baby Jane didn’t meet her Tatay Gallarza and Mama Emilia.

It was a “sentimental reunion” that Bohol Lifestyle Editor Liza Macalandag, Clarence Japheth Pesquira and yours truly have witnessed.

The 2nd GGGG begun with hugs, tears and a family dinner. The buffet table was heaving with food glorious food, dominated by lechon stuffed with paella and Mediterranean cuisine.

There was a karaoke showdown that Baby Jane was asked to sing. (When she was a kid, she sang “What Now, My Love?”, “Impossible Dream,” and “From Here to Eternity” and rock and roll. The Times-News reported: In her performances abroad, there were bursts of applause even before she finished. She sang other songs and held the audience in the palm of her hand. She gave 100%, and the crowd knew it and loved it. The thing about Janie Gee, 10 years old, is that she is an old pro.)

“After 10, I became a normal child, I stopped singing professionally," she said.

That’s what she thinks! Walang kupas pa rin si Baby Jane!

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More news here.

Mayor Tungol cries, 'Foul!'

Wake-uppers:
Seen: The welcome and thank you marker of the Rotary Club of Tagbilaran at  the city pier. 

Scene: Marian Rivera, Dingdong Dantes, Bianca King, Rafael Rosell, Dion Ignacio and Diva Montelaba will perform in the Kapuso Night tonight, July 28, at Tagbilaran City’s CPG Sports Complex starting at 6 p.m. Prior to the Kapuso Night, the cast of Maghihintay Pa Rin led by  King, Rosell and Ignacio, will participate in the Sandugo Festival parade at 1p.m. in the city's major thoroughfares.

Rep. Aumentado (center) with wife and nephew
Scene: The 2nd Galinato Global Grand Gathering (GGGG) of the Galinato family this weekend to reminisce and strengthen family relationships.  This year's GGGG is also dedicated to Jane Zenaida "Baby Jane" Galinato-Smith and Jeffrey "Apoy" Galinato. By the way, Baby Jane was a famous child wonder in the Philippines in 1960s. More of her next Sunday. 

Scene: Danilo Torcendes was declared the first Sikatuna: Rajah sa Bohol.  According to VRS, who attended the pageant, the barongs of designers Maximiel and Omie Auza were well appreciated. 

Seen: It was a simple parade of beauty and elegance on the Batasang Pambansa red carpet, as government officials and politicians; spouses showed up for President Benigno Aquino's fourth State of the Nation Address. The newly-elected Bohol 2nd district Representative Aris Aumentado showed up in a custom-made barong tagalog while his wife Vanessa (a Miss Bohol Sandugo title holder) glamoured everyone in her apple green Filipiniana gown designed by Wendell Quisido of Cebu with light golden lace details on the bust area. 

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You, too, must have read the official statement of local government unit of Albur on allegedly "fake" team in the recently concluded Boholympics, which was not "officially" endorsed by the LGU. 

Here is Albur's official statement on the issue: 

Official Statement on the 17 and Under Football Team named Alburquerque in the Boholympics 2013
The Football Team organized by Mr. Erwin Angalot of Tagbilaran City for the 17 and Under which played as the Alburquerque Team during the recently concluded Boholympics 2013 is not recognized by the Office of the Mayor of Alburquerque, Bohol. The so called Alburquerque Team is composed of members who are not from Alburquerque, Bohol, much less of Barangay Ponong. Neither was it organized by any Alburanon, trained in Alburquerque or by an Alburanon, adviced by an Alburanon nor was it formed in coordination with LGU officials of Alburquerque or supported by LGU funds.

The Office of the Mayor condemns the fraudulent way and brazen trickery that led to the formation of the fake Alburquerque Team, especially the getting of Certificates of Residence from the Barangay Captain of Ponong and the signing of the forms by the Albur MPDC in behalf of the Mayor.

On July 18, 2013, reports have reached the Mayor’s Office regarding the formation of the team. It was known that Mr. Angalot came looking for the Mayor on the afternoon of July 17, 2013, for his signature of the required paperworks of the players. Said papers were not personally signed by the Mayor, but was signed by the MPDC. The following day, the Mayor instructed Ms. Vera Villovido-Gesite to coordinate with the office of Mr. Joel Molina to inform him that the Alburquerque Team is not recognized by the office of the Mayor. An assurance was given that this request will be dealt with and acted appropriately.

On July 24, 2013, the Office of the Mayor received reports that an Alburquerque Team still played during the Boholympics, despite the Mayor’s putting all the stops to the fake team. 

According to Mayor Tungol, “In Albur, we teach our children honesty and integrity! We do not teach them to lie just to play in the Boholympics”. Mayor Tungol, further, is demanding an investigation on this anomalous behavior with the Sports Commission and the Boholympics Committee of the Provincial Government.

(Note: VRS called and texted Erwin Angalot of 17 and Under Football Team for his side but he never replied.)

Miss Alicia crowned Miss Bohol Sandugo 2013
The beautiful 18-year-old University of San Carlos sophomore and a dean's lister brought the Miss Bohol Sandugo, the  province’s oldest beauty pageant, last June 20. She is now included in the Miss Bohol Honor Roll.
Brigitte Tanoja Burato, of Alicia town, beat 17 other beauty queens to take the title. She is also the 2013 Miss University of San Carlos School of Business and Economics and the 2012 Miss Olive C- USC Campus.

Keep smiling! (l-r) first runner-up Shaila Mae Rebortera, Miss Bohol Sandugo 2013 Brigitte Burato and second runner-up Dae Narah Garcia, appear on stage after being named Miss Bohol Sandugo 2013 winners. Courtesy: Miss Bohol Sandugo Fanpage 

Named first runner-up and Miss Photogenic was Shaila Mae Rebortera of Baclayon (hometown of actor Cesar Montano) and second runner-up was Dae Narah Garcia  of Talibon town whose family lineage includes former Philippine President Carlos P. Garcia. 

Known as Miss Bohol (1955-1988), Miss Bohol Fiesta Islands (1989)  and Miss Bohol Sandugo (1990-present), Miss Bohol Sandugo will celebrate its 60th year in 2015. 

Like the other beauty contests, the Miss Bohol Sandugo is a rich source of "showbiz" material. Some of the title-holders and finalists who eventually became "famous" include Olivia Solis (Miss Bohol 1957 ) who became actress in Visayan films, Delia Canda- de la Serna  (Miss Bohol 1962 ) won Miss Philippines 1962-Visayas or third runner-up to Lalaine Benett who became the 1963 Miss Universe third runner-up, Emma Mumar (1968 Miss Bohol)  was a semifinalist in 1968 Bb. Pilipinas,  Irah Noemi Naron (Miss Bohol Sandugo 1995) who was a semi-finalist in the Mutya ng Pilipinas 1996, Cherry Mae Bacaro (Miss Bohol Sandugo 2003) who was Bb. Pilipinas 2003 semi-finalist, Anna Maris Igpit (Miss Bohol Sandugo 2005) who won Bb. Pilipinas-World 2006 and voted as Top 5 Prettiest and Top 20 in the swimwear competition in Miss World 2006; and Ely Rose Apple Angcon (Miss Bohol Sandugo 2011 first runner-up) who was selected as a finalist for the Olay White Bar Ambassador in 2011.
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Saturday, July 27, 2013

DongYan & other Kapuso stars to join Sandugo Festival



Wake-uppers:
Scene: This info from PIA- Bohol: DOT partial report shows Bohol only ranked 3rd in the tourist arrivals in Central Visayas.

Scene: It's a son for Nonito Donaire Jr. and Rachel. Rachel gave birth via Caesarean section to a baby boy named Jarel, which is reportedly an acronym for "Jun[ior] and Rachel, Everlasting Love.” On his official Facebook fan page, Donaire expressed his thanks to all his supporters. "Bonding time. Thanks to all the prayers. Rachel had to go through emergency C section, but everything is great 6lbs 12oz,” he said. “I think it’s gonna motivate me to get that hunger back again,” Donaire said. “I am just very excited, so I think that’s gonna be something that’s gonna propel me into something bigger.”

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GMA Network once again will bring some of its biggest stars in Bohol to join paisanos in the celebration of the Sandugo Festival on July 28. 


Kapuso hot couple Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera will meet and greet their fans on July 28. Courtesy: DongYan Fan Page. Boholano fans can have the chance to see the Philippines Sexiest Woman of 2013. Courtesy: FHM
Kapuso stars Bianca King, Rafael Rosell, Dion Ignacio and JC Tiuseco will ride the Kapuso float during the street dancing parade.

The cast of afternoon series "Maghihintay Pa Rin" will be joined by festival participants.

A Kapuso  Night will be held at CPG Sports Complex at 6 p.m. with hot Kapuso couple Dingdong Dantes and GMA's Primetime Queen and FHM's Sexiest Woman of 2013 Marian Rivera. 

Last week, DongYan posed for a mug shot-like picture, holding cards that bear their name followed by the words "Wants Mali Freed," which was released by the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) Asia.

A number of fun and exciting surprises await all Kapuso supporters who will be present at the event.

The highlights of the 2013 Sandugo Festival will be featured in Kapuso weekly travelogue program "Let's Fiesta" which is being shown in regional TV in Bicol, Davao, Iloilo, Ilocos, Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, General Santos City, Dagupan and Cebu.
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Idy Cagas says goodbye to crown

"All in all my reign was superb," says Miss Bohol Sandugo 2012 Idy Caseñas Cagas.


 Idy Cagas' reign ends last night.  
Courtesy: Sideroom Studios
A Libra (Oct. 21), Idy stands 5’3”, weighs 101 lbs., measures 34-25-35, and wears small-size shirt and size-5 shoes. She also won Miss CVIRAA 2006, Miss Jagna 2008 and Miss USJR - Caritas 2011 first runner-up).

"I had a wonderful year.. after being crowned, I know that there was more in store," shares Idy. "But what happened during entire reign exceeded my expectations."

Idy was the fifth Jagnaanon to win the Miss Bohol Sandugo title. Other Jagna beauties who brought home the crown were Tiffany Yap (1990), Ma. Recelle Adlaon (1991), Celevel Ranoco (1992) and Fatima Liora Lloren Rana (2003). 

 Idy is revved up for being Miss Bohol Sandugo. She considers 2012 as her most memorable year. 

"I get to meet a lot of people including Senators Escudero and Angara, as well as our very own Governor Edgar Chatto and his beautiful wife Vice-Mayor Pureza Chatto. I was invited to many events. My reign made me felt that i am one of the most favored women in Bohol," says Idy.

After winning Miss Jagna in 2008, she represented her town in Miss Bohol International in 2009 but she didn't make it to the semi-final. Her grandma told her to join Miss Bohol Sandugo but it took years by her friend to convince her to join the pageant.


As one of Bohol's finest ladies, she becomes an inspiration to those who like the limelight. 

"But the best parts would be being able to draw lessons that has enriched my personhood and the overwhelming feeling some of the young ladies I've met and little girls telling me that they want to be like me and asking for advices. It feels good that you are their inspiration," says Idy.

Idy, a true Boholano beauty queen, always tells it like it is because she’s been there and she’s here to stay.
On a lighter note, a lot of people are asking if Idy has a boyfriend now. In my interview with her last year, Idy admitted that she had no boyfriend. “I don't have a boyfriend.  It's not in my list of priorities as of this time.” As time goes by, her close friends revealed, Idy has found her man. 

"Her posts on Facebook are very clear she has the one. She can't deny it," says by the intrigued VRS.

"Her reign has ended. Idy has no hard time choosing between a boyfriend and Miss Bohol Sandugo crown. She deserves a colorful lovelife," says the socialite VRS, who is likewise excited over the news. 

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

bohol chronicle july 21, 2013 issue

Sunday, July 14, 2013

No 'recycled beauties' in Miss Bohol Sandugo 2013

It’s Miss Bohol Sandugo once again!

Eighteen beauties are competing for the plum at the 2013 Miss Bohol Sandugo on July 20, at the Bohol Cultural Center, Tagbilaran City.

There are no "recycled beauties" (whose undying motto is "try and try until you succeed") in this year's batch. However, keen beauty-pageant followers have been telling Bared, with a triumphant ring in their voices, that this year's candidates, are not greenhorns (most of them are winners in their schools and hometowns) to beauty contests.

Like the other beauty contests, the Miss Bohol Sandugo is a rich source of "showbiz" material. Some of the title-holders and finalists who eventually became "famous" include Miss Bohol Sandugo 2005 Anna Maris Igpit who became Bb. Pilipinas-World 2006  and now a TV personality and Miss Bohol Sandugo 2011 first runner-up Ely Rose Apple Angcon who was selected as a finalist for the Olay White Bar Ambassador in 2011.

This year’s official candidates are: 

Shereen Alainah Acuña, 22, from Catigbian, raised in the United Arab Emirates. "Shane" as she’s fondly called by her family, is a nurse. She was declared Miss Katigbawan 2011 and Miss UNO Visayas 2011. Vital statistics: 5’3", 34-24-34.

Brigitte Burato, 18, from Alicia, is a consistent dean's lister at the University of San Carlos. She was Miss University of San Carlos School of Business and Economics 2012 and Miss Gaisano Hot Body SRP. 5’4”, 34-22-32.

Shaila Mae Rebortera, 17, from Baclayon.  She crowned Lakambini at Ateneo de Davao University High School. A Teatro Ateneo president, Shaila is a first year college student at Cebu Doctors University. 5'4", waistline: 27

Feby Dannica Garrote, 17, of Cortes. She was Miss Rock of Cortes 2012 third runner-up and Miss United Nations in high school at Infant King Academy. She also represented her town in Miss Ubi 2012. 5'3", bust: 35.

Ma. Mercedes Cutanda, 16, the youngest among the candidates, represents the town of Corella.In high school, she was crowned Miss Nutrition, Miss Intrams second runner-up and Diyosa ng Kalikasan. 

Phoebe Jhane Bulala, 18, of Dagohoy, is one of the tallest among the delegates.  She was Bb. Talibon 2013 first runner-up, awarded Best in Long Gown and Production Number. 5’7". 

Ruth Basarte, 21, from Jagna, represents the Bohol Table Tennis Club. She was Miss Jagna 2011 first runner-up and Miss BIT-IC Personality 2011. 5'6", 32-26-36.

Brenda Liza Cagatin, 17, of Sierra-Bullones, raised in Doha, Qatar.  She was a campus journalist and debater at the Philippine School Doha. Brenda also joined Miss Teen-ICM. 5'7", 36-29-38.

Genina Abrau, 18, of San Miguel, represents Bohol Island State University (BISU).  A DOST scholar, Nina is Miss BISU-MC 2012 first runner-up and Miss BISU SCUAA 2013 first runner-up. 5’4.1", 33-25-35.

Myra Fritzie Golosino,23, of Guindulman, is a part-time model -nurse and niece of Miss Bohol Sandugo 1988 Elizabeth Mumar Añana. Fritzie won ICM Model Quest 2006. She has won in singing contests.  5’4", 34-25-39.

Jan Jeahnette Labastida, 19, of Loon, is taking up pharmacy at University of Bohol. A member of the Parish Youth Ministry and Confraternity of Our Lady of Lourdes,  she was Miss University of Bohol Pharmacy 2010 and Miss Loon Sidlakasilak 2012. 5’2.5", 35-26-35.

Meshellane Real Jade Cajels, 20, from Panglao, is a nursing graduate at Holy Name University. She is Miss Panglao 2012. 5’7".

Mary Elaine Cimfranca, 19, of Dauis,  is taking up International Studies at Mirriam College. The elder sister of Miss Teen Tagbilaran 2012 and Miss Bohol International 2012 Mary Ebone Cimafranca, she was Miss Dauis 2011. 5’6”, 34-24-35.

Jessica Timbal, 21, from Guindulan, is a resort receptionist who represents  the Royal Business Club. She was Miss Teen Bohol 2010 first runner-up and Miss Photogenic. 5'3", 32-24-36.

Dae Narah Garcia, 17, a college student at Silliman University is Binibining Talibon 2012. 5'4", 34-22-36.

Rhea Mae Antigua, 17, of Loay,represents the Great Minds. She graduated valedictorian at Holy Trinity Academy. 5’1", 34-24-36.

Antoniette Grace Mortejo, 18, of Cortes, represents Marcela Farms. She was Miss Rock of Cortes 2012 fourth runner-up and best in swimwear. She also competed in Miss Silka, Bikini contest and Mr. and Miss PRISAA. 5’3", 35-25.5-35.5.

Lizyl Jane Lomotos, 20, of Antequera, is a licensed teacher. She is the reigning Miss Antequera 2013.

The big question, of course, is: Who of them will get the crown?

Meanwhile, Bared has checked the Miss Bohol Sandugo (unofficial fanpage on Facebook) and found out that the Top 5 (early) Favorite Misses Bohol Sandugo with highest numbers of likes and shares of their photos are: Miss BISU, Miss Guindulman, Miss Loon, Miss Baclayon and Miss Alicia.

But don’t bet on it.

"There are surprises!" gushed Alexis Cadeliña, this year's choreographer.

"We love dark horses, they can make their reveal at the right time," seconded by Emerson Pinos.

Supporters can marshal and campaign for votes. At the end of the day, it pays more for a contestant to compete purely on her own merits.
 
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Acknowledged as the  province’s oldest beauty pageant, the Miss Bohol Sandugo will celebrate its 60th year in 2015.

Known as Miss Bohol (1955-1988), Miss Bohol Fiesta Islands (1989)  and Miss Bohol Sandugo (1990-present), the winners are:

1955 - Paula Raagas- Valles (Maribojoc)
1956 - Olivia Solis -Cabrera (Calape)
1962 - Delia Canda dela Serna (Maribojoc)
1968 - Theoprolia Clarin- Parras (Sevilla)
1976 - Geraldine Galang (Carmen)
1977 - Reza Cabagnot (Tagbilaran City)
1982 - Rachelle Oculam (Lila)
1983 - Marcel Orimaco Gatal  (Tagbilaran City)
1986 - Gemma Manding (Tagbilaran City)
1988 - Elizabeth Mumar Añana (Guindulman)
1989 - Winnie Moreno Lim (Tagbilaran City)
1990 - Tiffany Yap (Jagna)
1991 - Rcelle Adlaon (Jagna)
1992 - Celevel Ranoco (Jagna)
1993 - Mary Ann Eronico (Talibon)
1994 - Vanessa Joyce Matuod Evardone (Tagbilaran City)
1995 - Irah Noemi Naron (Baclayon)
1996 - Lainne Reyes Canoy (Maribojoc)
1997 - Socorro D' Marie Tallo Inting (Tagbilaran City)
1998 - Josely Yap Ferniz (Bilar)
1999 - Maria Niña Cubillo (A.B.E.N.A.), replaced by Jennifer Ejoc (Catigbian)
2000 - Mellanie Angelina Wallace (Calape)
2001 - Jeany Justiniane (Valencia), replaced by Vanessa Cadorna (Miss Duero)
2002 - Cherry Mae Bacarro (Dimiao)
2003 - Fatima Liora Lloren Rana (Jagna)
2004 - Rhiz Novah Arenas (Inabanga)
2005 - Anna Maris Igpit (Panglao)
2008 - Joy Marie Maglajos (Catigbian)
2009 - Daisy Jean Quilicot (Tagbilaran City)
2010 - Amir Paraguya Sol (Tubigon)
2011 - Farrah Faye Abarquez Mian (Tubigon)
2012 - Idy Caseñas Cagas (Pundok Jagnaanon)





 










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(The Bohol Chronicle July 14, 2013 issue)

Renowned Boholano director in Hollywood celebrates equality

Wake-uppers:
Scene: Be there as romantic singer, composer and lyricist David Pomeranz will sing The Old Songs, Born for You, King and Queen of Hearts and Got to Believe in Magic this Sandugo fever on David Pomeranz LIVE! on July 21 at the Bohol Tropics. The concert is presented by Smart. Tickets are priced at P1,500, P800 and P500. For details, call 411-3510/412-2048.

Scene: On July 20, at the Bohol Cultural Center, 18 candidates are competing for Miss Bohol Sandugo 2013. Bohol's most popular choreographer par excellence Alexis Cadeliña is directing the show.

Seen: Another tarsier in the city! A tarsier rescued at a bus terminal in Quezon City died after hours
of rescue. According to the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB), the tarsier was found to have “rope burns” on its chest and stomach. PAWB director Theresa Mundita-Lim explained that smuggling tarsier can be a threat not only to the species but also to the ecosystem it belongs to.
Apostolic Nuncio to Haiti Archbishop Barney Auza with fellow Boholanos during the 15th Biennial Convention of the Confederation of Boholanos in USA and America (Conbusac) in Chicago, Illinois. Courtesy: Charina Aumentado

Scene: Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto and his wife Balilihan Vice-Mayor Pureza Chatto in Chicago, Illinois for the 15th Biennial Convention of the Confederation of Boholanos in USA and America (Conbusac). Conbusac President Neil Bonje welcomed the participants to the event.  "CONBUSAC was formed as a group and by the collective efforts of Boholanos in the United States and Canada who share common bond of interest, the same nationalism and patriotism, are motivated by the needs back home, and have come together in response to the call of the Motherland in nation building," said the Conbusac official website.

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Guess who's getting hitched?

Renowned director RD Alba, right, and Philip Anthony, left, celebrate at the West Hollywood in California after the Supreme Court rulings. Courtesy: RD Alba

No matter how you slice it, thousands of same-sex couples across the United States were thrilled by  Supreme Court rulings that same sex spouses legally married in a state may receive federal benefits and cleared the way for same-sex marriages to resume in California by rejecting an appeal on the state's Proposition 8, including US-based Boholano director and producer  RD Alba.

They called it "supremely wonderful day" for equality.

RD Alba, who became popular for his direction of Kapalaran, Milyonaryong Mini and Biktima,  used the historic moment as an opportunity to exercise his rights and stand strong that all men, and women, and everything in between are created equal, together with his partner in life Philip Anthony.

"The decisions affect us emotionally because it means we do not have to struggle and fight for our rights," said RD in an email interview. "The laws are the same now for husband and wife as for any married couples/partners."

Same-sex couples in the US worried about second class treatment and issues that plagued them before like adoption, tax, hospital rights, medical benefits, immigration and end-of-life rights.

"What the ruling means to me and my partner? Well basic equality!  It's about time that we are treated the same like anyone else and not a second class citizens. We can have the same rights as any couple," explained RD. " Not long ago women didn't have the right to vote. Things are changing. I think millions of people around the world have someone they love and they want to be with that person. Why can't they have the same right? Love is a human thing, we should be treated like humans."
Supporters of same-sex marriage cheer at Hollywood, California. Courtesy: RD Alba

RD and Philip have been engaged for 14 years, but the couple's previously said they wouldn't marry until their gay friends were legally allowed to.

"Well we are not alone, millions of gay couples cried happy tears including our friends Colby and Brandon who have been together for four years and they want to marry. But for me and Phil, we have been together 14 years now, we celebrated together with our friends," said RD.

RD, who produced the critically acclaimed  Panaghoy sa Suba  (The Call of the River) with fellow Boholano Cesar Montano,  studied Drama at Jacksonville State University in Alabama and moved to Los Angeles to finish Film Directing at the Los Angeles Film School in Hollywood, California. He took his Master of Fine Arts in Film Directing at the Los Angeles Film School in Hollywood, where he was mentored by Philip Noyce (director of Clear and Present Danger, Bone Collector and SALT), Donald Petrie (director of Grumpy Old Men and Miss Congeniality) and Jon Amiel (director of Entrapment, Copycat and Tudors) to name a few. After college, he made several short films that went into local LA film festivals and in Canada. He also directed RSVP (hosted by actress G. Tongi and Dr. Tess Mauricio)  on TFC and The Dr. Tess Show on GMA Pinoy TV.

"So for future plans, now that we know that all is good, and everything is legal, we can marry anytime we want, no rush, we can plan our lives like normal. I say this not only for us but for the rest of humanity who are equal now and we should all agree that fair is fair,"  RD enthusiastically responded.

In the Philippines, same-sex marriage is not yet legally recognized although there is a reportedly high degree of tolerance and increasing visibility. The LGBT (lesbian-gay-bisexual-transsexual) community is lobbying for such a union to be recognized under Philippine law, as part of its campaign for equal rights. However, Malacañang has distanced itself from the matter and said it is "best left to the sound discretion of the legislature."

RD's message to all: Well, I want everyone to know whether what religion, politics or belief you have - we should all live good lives, rrase the hate because that makes the chaos in this world. Keep to yourself your hate and turn it to goodness and  share the love. We only live once and we want to spend that with the persons we love!

In Germany, Ayessa Roi Cardino, who hails from Tagbilaran City, rejected the idea that homosexuals should be treated differently than other citizens.

"I welcome this new development in the US policy on same sex marriage. It goes to show that their magistrates are true to the principles of the US constitution on the equal protection clause," said Ayessa.

In California, Jocelyn Oppus from Baclayon seconded the point.
"Thats OK..its their life..who I am to judge if it is right or wrong..if we believe in God and as the Bible said marriage is between a man and a woman..then at the end its between them  and God because we are not be judged in the eyes of God of what we did but what's in our heart that only Him can see..kung sa ato pa..'"JAHAY MAN TA UG KALAG"..thats why we are given free will," she said.

While in Wilshire, California, Babat Malicay-Bagotchay from Lila was heartened by the news.
"I'm devastated! All the cute guys are now coming out in a open and now married to another hot guy!!! Hahahaha," she said.

Same-Sex Marriage Facts:

Same-sex marriage is legal in 13 U.S states and the District of Columbia: California, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington. (The law goes into effect on August 1, 2013 in Minnesota and Rhode Island.)

Same-sex marriage is banned by constitutional amendment or state law in: Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

New Jersey and New Mexico have no laws either banning or allowing same-sex marriage.
Worldwide, 15 other countries (and parts of Mexico) also have laws allowing same-sex marriage and domestic partnerships: Argentina (2010), Denmark (2012), New Zealand (2013), Spain (2005),Belgium (2003), France (2013), Norway (2009),  Sweden (2009),Brazil (2013), Iceland (2010), Portugal (2010), Uruguay (2013),Canada (2005), The Netherlands (2000) and South Africa (2006).

Civil Unions: Civil unions grant couples most of the rights of state civil marriages, but provide none of the federal benefits of marriage, such as Social Security benefits. These rights include spousal support, medical decision-making privileges, access to a partner's insurance, and hospital visitation rights. Civil unions are legal in: Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, and New Jersey.

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

The Bohol Chronicle , July 7, 2013 issue