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PHNO-OPINION: BY SARA SOLIVEN DE GUZMAN: DAYS OF ACTION AND UNCERTAINTY

BY SARA SOLIVEN DE GUZMAN: DAYS OF ACTION AND UNCERTAINTY

MANILA, MARCH 29, 2011 (STAR) AS A MATTER OF FACT By Sara Soliven De Guzman - These are indeed days of action and days of uncertainty! In one part of the world there is continuous fighting, in the other side, the earth continues to shake. In our country, we seem to have lost the values that Christianity has taught us.

There are great forces of destruction in this world today. Terrorism attacks continue to cast fear all over the world. There are people dying in war torn areas – Libya, Bahrain, Yemen and dead bodies dug from the rubbles in devastated, earth-shaken nations of Japan, New Zealand, and Myanmar. And as we continue to do our daily tasks in different parts of the globe, great issues are being contested with blood, sweat and tears, and by a divided humanity.

Will Gaddafi, Ali Abdullah Saleh and Merci Gutierrez continue to hold on to power at the expense of numerous lives? Will the RH bill be once and for all be passed by the House of Representatives? Will the Ligots finally cooperate and shed light on the AFP "pabaon" issue and other irregularities exposed? Will there be another "hara-kiri" performed by a baffled officer trying to cover up crime and corruption? Will Ping Lacson strut into the Senate amidst the cheers of his colleagues, almost feeling vindicated in the absence of a trial? And will P-Noy's approval ratings continue to slide down? Abangan!

These are times of dire strife. On the one hand are the aggressors, the likes of Gaddafi and Ali Abdullah Saleh (not to outweigh their Filipino counterparts as well) who have unfurled the merciless standard of hate, brute force and scientific savagery, who hold that might is right, and, maddened with the lust for power, have trampled down ruthlessly and without an iota of guilt all that mankind has held dear, noble, and holy.

On the other hand are those who believe in honor and justice, those who believe in the dignity of man and inherent rights of the individual, those who believe in liberty and democracy, and in the Christian doctrine. These are the days of action: they are also, for all men of goodwill, days of faith, and unwavering loyalty to those sacred ideals.

On the RH Bill: Just right after a big rally done by the Catholic Church against the approval of the RH Bill, big news from America lands on the dailies. Yesterday's headline (from Reuters) flashed, "US Jesuits reach $166 million sex abuse settlement." The Society of Jesus has agreed to pay $166 million to settle more than 500 child sexual abuse claims against priests in five states. So what does this tell us? Our world is going nuts! I think it's about time our pious clergymen stop hypocrisy and live with the times. They must come up with realistic solutions on improving the RH Bill instead of just killing it.

On Merceditas Gutierrez: One cannot help but wonder what factors prevent an educated and highly qualified person to uphold her honor and dignity. Obviously, like the Ligots, she knows more than what meets the eye. She is evading the "core" truth. I hope she does not commit an "Angie Reyes" act of hara-kiri – that would really be unfathomable. If Merci persists in protecting herself against the charges brought upon her, she will only make matters worse and her every word will not only further malign the judiciary but also the Filipino people. Whatever happened to "humility" and statesmanship in this country?

On the Ligots: The Ligots never fail to amuse us. Their very act of drama and imagery cheapens and weakens that respect given to an "Officer and a Gentlemen" of the Corps. Our eyes are glued on this teleserye – hoping that in some point in time justice will be served in this country. How can a former public servant in his own right mind deny the truth to the Filipino people? Shameless.

Let us always try to live up to highest ideals of humanity. We must teach our children to rally behind what is right and just during these times of unlimited national and world emergency. Let every Filipino, man, woman or child, pledge himself fully and unwaveringly to support, promote, cherish, and defend with all his strength of mind, body and heart, even with the sacrifice of life itself, and against all foes, those sacred ideals of the Nation: LIBERTY, DEMOCRACY, and our CHRISTIAN CIVILIZATION!

P-Noy should be an inspiration to the people. He should be a strong moral force rallying behind his people to make us better. Unfortunately, his goal of wanting every Filipino to ascend and transcend – seems to be failing. He has chosen the wrong people to lead his government. He has been making reckless decisions much to the chagrin of the whole country. He better tread softly or he will find himself in an abyss of no return. That prince in shining armor, who we were reveling about I think has now turned into a frog.

In this modern world, particularly in the Philippines, it is a sad fact that we are departing from the paths of morality. Men scoff at honesty and mock at Religion. In their pride they think that it is a part of modern civilization and enlightenment to cast off as old fashioned and tattered garments the old norms of moral conduct. Immortality, dishonesty, and impiety are contaminating our youths, have invaded all classes and ranks, have corrupted government officials, who are the legal guardians of truth, equity and justice.

Many consider virtue as effeminate and an unnecessary handicap to success. They are indeed sadly, fatally mistaken in their notion of civilization and progress. To be immoral, to be without scruples of conscience, might be called progress if they insist on calling it so, but surely it is progress in the wrong direction.

There must be mutual respect among all Filipinos regardless of gender, economic status and religious belief. All our actions must not be against the spirit of the Constitution that will in the end cause ill-feeling and mutual antagonism among Filipinos. When this happens we will forever be a country divided, thus, losing our last chance to progress. In these days of action, we need unity and collective strength.

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Chief News Editor: Sol Jose Vanzi

© Copyright, 2011 by PHILIPPINE HEADLINE NEWS ONLINE
All rights reserved

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PHNO-OOPINION: BY ELLEN TORDESILLAS: WHISTLEBLOWERS WELCOME LACSON RETURN

BY ELLEN TORDESILLAS: WHISTLEBLOWERS WELCOME LACSON RETURN

MANILA, MARCH 29, 2011 (MALAYA) Ellen Tordesillas - ('Murdering journalists is not new in this country but we can never be jaded about it. Each time a journalist is killed, press freedom is undermined.')

NOT surprisingly, Sandra Cam, president of the Whistleblowers Association, is so happy that Sen. Ping Lacson is back.

Lacson arrived in Cebu from Hong Kong last Saturday. He proceeded to Manila. His media officer, Gerry de Belen, said the senator, who left the country 14 months ago to evade the warrant of arrest issued against him in connection with the murders of public relations practitioner Bubby Dacer and his driver Emmanuel Corbito, will hold a presscon today at the Senate.

Cam said with the return of Lacson, members of their organization who will be called to the witness stand during the impeachment trial, feel more secure. She added that Lacson is the only one who is consistent with his help for the whistleblowers. (A whistleblower is one who exposes wrongdoing within an organization in the hope of stopping it) who testified in congressional investigation at great risk to their person and family.)

Even before the Court of Appeals came out with its final decision last March 18 saying that its earlier ruling nullifying the indictment of Regional Trial Court of Manila in connection with the Dacer-Corbito double-murder case automatically lifted the warrant of arrest issued against Lacson, the Whistleblowers Association had issued a statement giving him support warning the public that those who are protecting Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez are "hell-bent" in preventing Lacson from coming back.

One can sense disappointment and hurt in Whistleblowers Association's statement. While they praised Lacson for "defending patriotic truth as against all odds while Arroyo was at the peak of power her power", they couldn't resist taking a swipe at those who "all of a sudden became courageous only when the icon of corruption was no longer president."

Aside from Cam, signatories of the statement included Jose Barredo, Jr. one of the vital witnesses in the P728 million fertilizer scam, considered one of the strongest cases of the six items in the Articles of Impeachment.

Another signatory to the statement of support for Lacson was Dante Madriaga, one of the witnesses in the $329 million NBN/ZTE deal.

Other signatories were retired Master Sgt Cesar Doble and Capt. Marlon Mendoza, witnesses in the Senate investigation of the "Hello Garci" scandal, Noel Baviera, witness in investigation on banks and Atty. Melchor Magdamo, the whistleblower in the ballot secrecy folders anomaly.

It's a pity that the "Hello Garci" scandal is not included in this impeachment trial. Doble and Mendoza would have been more than glad to refresh the minds of the public of Gloria Arroyo's grand theft of the will of the Filipino people in the 2004 elections.

But the "Hello Garci" scandal, just like the controversial plea bargain agreement with retired military comptroller Carlos Garcia , would be very much in the consciousness of the public and the senators when they decide on the fate of Gutierrez.

***

Murdering journalists is not new in this country but we can never be jaded about it. Each time a journalist is killed, press freedom is undermined.

The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) issued this statement on the killing Marline Flores-Sumera, anchor of dzME-Radyo Uno, who was murdered as she left her home in Malabon City for work Thursday morning.

"We demand that authorities solve the crime and arrest not only those who pulled the trigger but, more importantly, the brains behind this latest murder of a Filipino journalist, the 144th since 1986.

"Sumera was killed the same day Marlene Esperat was gunned down as she sat down to dinner with her family in 2005 and is the sixth woman journalist - Leah Dalmacio, Gina Dela Cruz, Maritess Cablitas and Neneng Montano died in the November 23, 2009 Ampatuan massacre - murdered in the country since 1986. Her murder was carried out with the same brazenness, the gunman walking up to her and putting a bullet through her nape as she was waiting for a jeepney ride, then picking up the spent shell and casually walking away.

"This is such clear proof of the culture of impunity that government's continued failure – should we say unwillingness? – to solve media killings and all other forms of extrajudicial executions in this country has nurtured, that murderers can boldly carry out their diabolic work in the light of day and walk away, confident that authorities cannot, or will not, touch them.

"We are therefore appalled that no less than President Benigno Aquino III and Director Nicanor Bartolome of the National Capital Region Police Office should immediately suggest that Sumera's murder was not job-related based on the results of an 'initial investigation.'

"Aquino and Bartolome ought to be more prudent and know that such a statement should be made only after a thorough probe and after exhausting all possible angles.

"Her family and co-workers believe the killing of Sumera, co-anchor of the public service program Arangkada Kinse Trenta, is connected to the dispute between two claimant-groups, one of which she led, over a four-hectare estate up for distribution by the National Housing Authority that she and fellow host, dzME chief reporter Ed Sarto, had been tackling on the program.

"Her taking on the land dispute on behalf of her fellow claimants was clearly part of the public service she rendered as a broadcast journalist.

"Together with her bereaved kin, colleagues and listeners, the NUJP demands justice for Len Sumera's death and that government once and for all end the culture of impunity that continues to mock its claims of being a democracy through its failure to solve the continued murders of those who constitute one of that supposed democracy's cornerstones, the independent media."

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Chief News Editor: Sol Jose Vanzi

© Copyright, 2011 by PHILIPPINE HEADLINE NEWS ONLINE
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PHNO-OPINION: BY BENJAMIN DIOKNO: HOW DOES PRESIDENT AQUINO'S MIND WORK?

BY BENJAMIN DIOKNO: HOW DOES PRESIDENT AQUINO'S MIND WORK?

MANILA, MARCH 29, 2011 (MALAYA) BENJAMIN DIOKNO - 'To date, Mr. Aquino has no substantive things to say about what he has done during the past eight months.'

AS the world spins out or control – earthquakes, tsunamis, volcano eruptions, nuclear meltdowns, economic crises, wars and revolutions -- leaders of governments are put under enormous stress. How do they confront these problems? Who do they consult?

Right now, President Aquino is confronted with the same set of problems plus more -- returning overseas workers owing to the revolutions in the MENA areas and increasing uncertainty of nuclear radiation in Japan, the approaching execution of three Filipinos in China, rising joblessness, deepening poverty, slowing economy, rising criminality, growing unrest in Mindanao partly due to the postponement of the ARMM elections, among others.

In a recent encounter, Mr. Aquino was frank enough to admit to reporters that: "my breakfast fare has been the nuclear problem in Japan, Libya's problems and the rest of the Middle East." But how does he confront these problems?

These problems are emerging at a time when cracks are showing in his previously-high performance ratings.

The most recent Pulse Asia survey shows that the respondents have become less approving and more disapproving of President Aquino's handling of the following national issues: creation of more jobs, controlling fast population growth, enforcing the law to all, whether influential or ordinary people, fighting criminality, reducing the poverty of many Filipinos, controlling inflation and improving the pay of workers.

On the creation of more jobs, the approval rating fell by 11 percentage points (from 56% in October 2010 to 48% in March 2011) while the disapproval rating rose by 8 percentage points (from 11% to 19%).

On controlling fast population growth, the approval rating dropped by 11 percentage points (from 53 to 42) while the disapproval rating rose by 7 percentage points (from 13 to 20). These results become more relevant as the debate on the RH bill comes to its final conclusion.

On equal enforcement of the law, the approval rating declined by 9 percentage points (from 58 to 49) while the disapproval rating increased by 6 percentage points (from 9 to 15).

On fighting criminality, the respondents have become more disapproving and less approving. Approval rating went down by 8 percentage points (from 62 to 54) while disapproval rating went up by 7 percentage points ( from 10 to 17).

On reducing the poverty of many Filipinos, the approval rating dropped by 6 percentage points (from 45 to 37) while the disapproval rating jumped by 11 percentage points (from 21 to 32). Some one-third of respondents disapproved of, while another one-third were undecided on, the Aquino administration's poverty reduction programs.

On controlling inflation, the approval rating of the Aquino administration suffered 8 percentage points decline (from 45 to 37). The disapproval rating rose by 11 percentage points (from 21 to 32).

On improving the pay of workers, the approval rating dropped by 8 percentage points (from 56 to 48) while the disapproval rating rose by 8 equal percentage points (from 14 to 22).

Confronted with these serious and increasingly worsening problems, one wonders where President Aquino looks for guidance in finding solutions. It is of public knowledge that he needs a lot of help in managing the ship of state. He was swept into the presidency on the back of voters' sympathy for his iconic mother, former President Corazon Aquino, rather than on a strong record of competence and experience in public management.

Where does he turn to for policy guidance? Clearly, not to his immediate policy group -- the Cabinet -- for he has not convened it regularly. Not to the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) for he has assembled it only once -- this month -- since he assumed the presidency eight months ago. Not to the National Security Council. a top policy group which includes all former living presidents, since he has not convened it ever.

I doubt whether Mr. Aquino has sought the advice of former Presidents (Ramos, Estrada and Macapagal-Arroyo) on the most serious problems facing his presidency. For sure, he has not consulted his past immediate predecessor whom he dislikes a lot.

Another related issue is what Mr. Aquino is going to report to the general public on his forthcoming State-of-the-Nation address (SONA).

At about this time of the year, the President's men are expected to put together a draft of what he has to say on the occasion of his next SONA. To date, Mr. Aquino has no substantive things to say about what he has done during the past eight months. True, he has about four months to cram some results to report to the public before his second SONA.

At about this time of the year, the President should also be finalizing the national budget for 2012. Better yet, he should have something concrete to say about how the President's budgets for the next five years would like relative to what he wants accomplished in his medium-term development plan.

The next few weeks promise to be a hectic, nerve-wracking, helter-skelter experience for Mr. Aquino. Would the next Pulse Asia survey results show improvement or continuing slide in Mr. Aquino's performance rating?

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Chief News Editor: Sol Jose Vanzi

© Copyright, 2011 by PHILIPPINE HEADLINE NEWS ONLINE
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PHNO-OPINION: BY ELLEN TORDESILLAS: WHISTLEBLOWERS WELCOME LACSON RETURN

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PHNO-SB: THUMBS UP FOR FIL-AUSSIE SINGER-ACTOR MiG AYESA

THUMBS UP FOR FIL-AUSSIE SINGER-ACTOR MiG AYESA

MANILA, MARCH 30, 2011 (STAR) FUNFARE By Ricardo F. Lo [PHOTO - MiG at the opening night of Rock of Ages on Broadway, with former presidential daughter Chelsea (file photo, right) in the audience.]

Even former First Daughter Chelsea Clinton was impressed.

This is according to an exclusive report by Funfare's Big Apple correspondent Edmund Silvestre (news editor of the New York-based The Filipino Reporter) on the Broadway debut of Fil-Aussie singer-actor MiG Ayesa as Stacee Jaxx in the smash musical Rock of Ages.

Funfare and Filipino Reporter were invited by MiG's aunt, Dr. Rosario "Tita Ching" Legarda, to the opening of the musical last Thursday night (March 24) at the Helen Hayes Theatre. Funfare didn't make it but Edmund did.

Said Edmund (who is in Manila for his annual R&R), "MiG has just become a certified Broadway headliner, sharing top billing in Playbill with the lead stars of Rock of Ages.

"Bringing to Great White Way his critically-acclaimed version of the hilariously impossible rock star Stacee Jaxx following his celebrated stint at the Rock of Ages' US tour, MiG continued to draw raves, leaving the crowd of the packed theater on 44th Street in Manhattan transfixed by his killer voice, knockout comic performance and, well, washboard abs."

Edmund noted that New York's glitterati came in full force, including former presidential daughter Chelsea Clinton, a personal friend of MiG and his wife Simone De La Rue.

"We didn't have a chance to see Chelsea up close but those who did said the brainy and lovely daughter of Bill and Hillary enjoyed the show to the hilt," added Edmund.

Aside from Tita Ching (who was one of the principal sponsors at the wedding of Regine Velasquez and Ogie Alcasid in December last year), also present were some of the people closest to MiG's heart like his gorgeous wife, stage actress Simone De La Rue; as well as favorite cousins Aldo Legarda and Denise Legarda-Gallagher, who all gave MiG morale boost.

Stacee Jaxx is the role that might be played in the film version, if ever it's pushed through, by Tom Cruise who watched the musical in L.A. and also gave it a thumbs up.

"MiG was a little anxious," revealed Tita Ching, laughing. "This is his Broadway's biggest break. He gave flawless performances over the last six months at the national tour and he wanted it to be perfect on his first night as Stacee Jaxx on Broadway."

"I feel not only incredibly humbled and blessed, but also incredibly grateful to reopen Rock of Ages on Broadway," stated MiG in a press release for the opening night. "While touring with the show the past six months was one of the most fulfilling and fun-filled adventures for me, being able to once again work in a city that's home, in the company of family and friends, is what I'm looking forward to about this new assignment."

MiG's cousin Aldo disclosed that MiG is under pressure to live up to his much-hyped performance especially after Cruise saw him in L.A.

"I think MiG didn't have much grasp of the huge impact of his performance as well as the musical's tremendous popularity and success until he and Tom Cruise met face to face and talked about the movie version," Edmund quoted Aldo as saying.

The movie adaptation will also star Alec Baldwin, Paul Giamatti, Julianne Hough, Mary J. Blige and Russel Brand.

"Oscar-nominated actress Amy Adams is reportedly being courted to join the cast. The film, by Warner Bros./New Line Cinema, is expected to arrive in moviehouses in the middle of 2012. Adam Shankman, who directed and choreographed the film adaptation of Hairspray, will direct," said Edmund.

Meanwhile, both handlers and supporters of MiG are predicting that bigger opportunities will be waiting for the Fil-Aussie artist after his stint with Rock of Ages.

Pinoy fans also pay tribute to Elizabeth Taylor

Following the death of Elizabeth Taylor (due to congestive heart failure) at the age of 79 on March 23, fans have been trooping to the Walk of Fame in Hollywood to pay tribute by offering flowers at her Star. Elizabeth's death marked the end of a Hollywood era.

"It's so touching," shared US-based Boholano socialite Mikey Gatal (owner of www.mikeygatal.com), one of those who went to Walk of Fame. "Fans have covered the tile with flowers, notes and photographs. Mourners even matched their bouquets to the color of her Elizabeth's violet eyes."

Some of Elizabeth's memorable quotes:

? You find out who your real friends are when you're involved in a scandal.

? I've only slept with men I've been married to. How many women can make that claim?

? I suppose when they reach a certain age some men are afraid to grow up. It seems the older the men get, the younger their new wives get.

Piolo's show in US a sell-out

Romeo Joven, producer of Piolo Pascual's sold-out concert series in the US and Canada, is still overwhelmed by the success of the shows that were held in Toronto, Virginia Beach, Tampa, Portland, Chicago and Connecticut. The last concert was held at the Woolsey Hall in Yale University, Newhaven, Connecticut, last March 27 under the technical direction of Marisse Panlilio.

This report came from Felix Manuel, one of Funfare's "beauty experts," who was in the audience at the Connecticut show.

"Hundreds of Filipinos trooped to the venue hours before the show started. There were kababayan who traveled from as far as South Carolina."

Felix said that Piolo will stay for several days in New York to film scenes for his new Star Cinema movie (untitled just yet) which includes in the cast Marian dela Riva who is now based in New Jersey. Marian left showbiz several years ago. "She's now a happy housewife," added Felix. "She's as beautiful as ever."

I presumed that Marian, whose marriage to actor Ronald Corveau was annulled, is happily remarried.

Felix said that also well received during the concert was Pokwang with her hilarious antics.

"She was touched by the crowd's gesture and was even more appreciative of several foreigners who went to the show just to see her in person."

After the show, Pokwang said, "They are my friends in Twitter, and I am elated that they literally follow me whenever I have a show!"

Among others who watched the show were Piolo's mom together with several friends and relatives from the East Coast.

A meet-and-greet with Piolo and Pokwang was held at the Payag Restaurant in Queens after the show.

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Chief News Editor: Sol Jose Vanzi

© Copyright, 2011 by PHILIPPINE HEADLINE NEWS ONLINE
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PHNO-SB: AMALIA FUENTES: I NEVER REALLY LIKE THE 'TITLE'

AMALIA FUENTES: I NEVER REALLY LIKE THE 'TITLE'

MANILA, MARCH 30, 2011 (STAR) FUNFARE By Ricardo F. Lo [PHOTO - Two screen goddesses at their prime: Elizabeth Taylor (above) and (right) Amalia Fuentes on the cover of Expressweek magazine (dated March 1976)]

FUNFARE UPDATE By Ricardo F. Lo - The "title" has stuck and whether she likes it or not, Amalia Fuentes will have to live with it Elizabeth Taylor of the Philippines.

"The truth," Amalia told Funfare Update, "is that I never really like it. God in His wisdom never creates two persons exactly the same. Even in the case of identical twins, one is always slightly different from the other. I was starting in showbiz when that 'title' was given to me, but I wanted to have my own identity, to be known on my own merits and not because I'm being likened to somebody."

That "title" was informally "conferred"on Amalia more than half a century ago when she was discovered by Dr. Jose R. Perez, the famous Starmaker Doc Perez of Sampaguita Pictures which named her Miss Number One (with Juancho Gutierrez as Mr. Number One) in a star search, introduced her in the Gloria Romero starrer Hindi Basta-Basta and cast her in her first-starring role in Movie Fan.

Described as "The Last Star" by a veteran writer, Elizabeth died at age 79 Wednesday morning (US Time, March 23) at the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles where she was confined for seven weeks due to CHF (Congestive Heart Failure).

"Elizabeth Taylor was the last screen goddess," said Floy Quintos. "Her private life was just as exciting as her movies."

Amalia recalled that when Sampaguita launched her, Doc Perez saw that she was a cross between Elizabeth Taylor and Linda Darnell and since Elizabeth was the bigger star, it was logical to just market the new discovery as the Elizabeth Taylor of the Philippines. At that time, Philippine Movies was so heavily influenced by Hollywood that Filipino actors and actresses were publicized as Hollywood's local counterparts. Thus, besides Amalia Fuentes being Elizabeth Taylor of the Philippines, we have Barbara Perez as Audrey Hepburn of the Philippines, Berting Labra as Mickey Rooney of the Philippines, Tessie Agana as the Shirley Temple of the Philippines, Merle Tuazon as Ava Gardner of the Philippines, Chona Sandoval as Pier Angeli of the Philippines, Lou Salvador Jr. as James Dean of the Philippines and Eddie Mesa as Elvis Presley of the Philippines.

Amalia's "title" was affirmed when Vic Damone performed at the Rizal Memorial Stadium in the late '50s. Then barely 18, Amalia watched the show with her then perennial screen sweetheart (and later husband) Romeo "Bobby" Vasquez, father of her only daughter, Liezl (now Mrs. Albert Martinez). In one portion of the show, Damone invited a lady from the audience to join him onstage and sing to her. Amalia was "it."

"I wasn't even made up," recalled Amalia. "I was in a hurry, so after taking a bath, I hurriedly fixed my hair, dressed up and went with Bobby to Rizal Memorial. I deliberately didn't wear any make-up because I didn't want to attract undue attention."

Anyway, on stage, Damone took a good look at Amalia and said, "You look like Elizabeth Taylor!" The audience reacted with a deafening applause.

[PHOTO - Elizabeth in Butterfield 8 for which she won an Oscar Best Actress (1961) for her performance as a call girl. Left: Amalia looking like a sea nymph at the Tali beach in Batangas where she owned a vacation house. (Photos of Amalia were taken by Jun de Leon)

Two years later, Amalia went with the Karilagan models (Joji Felix Velarde and Chona Kasten among them) of Pitoy Moreno, Ben Farrales and Aureo Alonzo to Las Vegas for a fashion show. During a free time, the group decided to try the casino.

"I chose a slot machine near the door, dropping small coins just for fun," continued Amalia. "Then, I noticed that a man with several escorts was walking in my direction. I thought they were headed for the door. I was surprised when he walked straight toward me and said, 'Hi, I am Eddie Fisher!' Of course, I knew who he was!"

At that time, Fisher was mending a broken heart after he broke up with Elizabeth. Fisher was one of the eight men Elizabeth married, one of them Richard Burton whom she married twice. Burton first starred with Elizabeth in Cleopatra, the classic movie that made Elizabeth $1-M richer, making her the first million-dollar star.

"Lumabas ang pagka-fan ko," added Amalia. "I started asking Fisher, 'Is she beautiful? How does she look in person?' Excited ako."

Fisher simply looked at Amalia with a quiet smile. Then he said, "You look like her!" He invited her for cocktails but she politely begged off.

A few years later, Amalia and company (including her mother) went to Hollywood during a US vacation and met Stephen Boyd who was then shooting a movie (Fantastic Voyage, with Raquel Welch). At that time, there was some kind of an "exchange-visit" arrangement between Sampaguita and Hollywood. When Hollywood stars came (Troy Donahue and Jeff Chandler among them), they would be entertained by Sampaguita stars at the studio, and vice-versa.

As the story goes, Stephen was so fascinated with Amalia that he actually went on a date with her, at another time play golf with her, and even invited her to try her luck in Hollywood, prompting Amalia to comment, "I'd rather be a big fish in a small pond than be a small fish in a big pond." She was already a big star in the Philippines at that time.

It turned out that Stephen had quit Cleopatra after shooting for a few days and was replaced by Burton but got paid in full anyway, saying "I was laughing all the way to the bank." Said Amalia, "That was the first time I ever heard that remark" which has been quoted through the years.

It was during one of their meetings that Stephen told Amalia, "You remind me of Elizabeth Taylor." Clarified Amalia, "He didn't exactly say that I looked like Elizabeth Taylor. He just said that I reminded him of Elizabeth Taylor."

When did Amalia finally come face-to-face with Elizabeth Taylor?

It happened in the '80s when she and estranged husband Joey Stevens watched Elizabeth in the play The Little Foxes in London's West End. Amalia wore a white dress which she bought during an earlier trip to Italy and purposely wore a curly hairstyle reminiscent of one Elizabeth wore in one of her movies. She and Joey sat at the first row. After the intermission, they could heard whispers (you know, could she be Elizabeth Taylor?) as they returned to their seats, occupying the front row instead of their original front-row seats. More whispers: She couldn't be Elizabeth Taylor. She's in the play, so why would she sit with the audience?

After the show, Amalia rushed to the backstage door and waited for Elizabeth to come out, ready with her Playbill to be autographed by her. At 5'5" wearing three-inch heels, Amalia towered over Elizabeth who was only 5'1" tall. I should know.

Back in 1986, Raoul Tidalgo and I, together with our dear departed friends Rita Gomez and Rustom Quinton, stood three feet away from Elizabeth at one side of the red carpet when she arrived, escorted by George Hamilton, at the Avery Theater for The Film Society of Lincoln Center's Gala Tribute to Elizabeth, in which her colleagues Roddy McDowall, Ann Miller, Jane Powell, June Allyson and Margaret O'Brien were among those who paid tribute to her. We were invited by Domingo "Jun" Hornilla who was the Filipino comptroller of the Film Society of Lincoln Center, the same guy responsible for the holding of the First Filipino Filmfest in Lincoln Center in the mid-'90s.

"I was literally looking at the back of her head," said Amalia, "so I thought of doing something to make her look at me. I said, 'You know, I'm also an actress and in my country, they said that I look like you!' That did it. Elizabeth raised her head and, with her violet eyes (that, I would learn later, turned blue-green when she was under the sun), she looked at me and smiled, saying, 'Hmmm,' signed my Playbill and sped away in her chauffeur-driven car."

Amalia learned about Elizabeth's death only late yesterday morning when she woke up. She went straight to bed the night before, tired after attending a prayer meeting in which Pilar Pilapil was the resource speaker.

When she checked her celfone for text messages, it was Elwood Perez's message that she read first: Elizabeth Taylor is dead at 79.

Thinking that it was as joke, Amalia texted Elwood back, "Don't worry, I'm still alive and kicking."

As a parting shot, I told Amalia that Elizabeth was once quoted as saying that she had two great loves, Mike Todd (her second husband who died in a plane crash only months after they got married) and Richard Burton.

I asked Amalia who her greatest love is.

"I won't tell you who he is."

Is he an actor?

"No," she said. "He's not from showbiz. That's your blind item for tomorrow," adding, "the only tragedy is that I never got to marry him."

I have my guess. Who is yours?

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Chief News Editor: Sol Jose Vanzi

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PHNO-SB: WILLY SAYS 'SO SORRY' FOR SHOW INSENSITIVITY / JUDAY BACK AT WORK

WILLY SAYS 'SO SORRY' FOR SHOW INSENSITIVITY / JUDAY BACK AT WORK

MANILA, MARCH 30, 2011 (STAR) FUNFARE By Ricardo F. Lo [PHOTO - Willie Revillame, host of TV5's Willing Willie.]

Willie says, 'so sorry' (The Philippine Star) Updated March 30, 2011 12:00 AM Comments (4) View comments

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MANILA, Philippines - Willie Revillame, the producers of Willing Willie and TV5 sincerely and deeply apologized for the segment of the show featuring six-year-old Jan-Jan Suan which viewers may have found offensive or in bad taste. We wish to stress that there was never any intention to humiliate or abuse Jan-Jan or any contestant on the show.

Willing Willie is a program that was conceptualized to bring joy and hope and shine the spotlight on ordinary Filipinos. The program aims to provide a venue for everyone to show their talents, tell their stories and make their dreams come true. This is the thrust of everyone involved in the program, particularly its host, Willie Revillame.

Like most contestants on the show, Jan-Jan, accompanied by his aunt, joined the program to showcase his talent and play in a game segment in the hope of bringing home big prizes. He has performed in the past in school programs and mall contests, and his performance in Willing Willie was completely voluntary and with the blessings of his parents. He appeared to be sad or even in tears, not because he was being forced to dance, but because he felt the dance was "serious" and he was playing a role. He did not want to smile because of his missing upper front teeth and because of the presence on the set of former basketball player Bonel Balingit who Jan-Jan thought was a scary "giant".

Again, TV5 and Wil Productions express profound regret for any insensitivity on their part, and wish to thank all those who have expressed concern. We are always grateful to be reminded of our obligations to the viewing public. In turn, we hope to make clear that the objective of the show has always been to bring joy and hope to Filipinos, whether they are participating on the show or viewing at home.

Juday back at work DIRECTLINE By Boy Abunda (The Philippine Star) Updated March 30, 2011 12:00 AM Comments (0) View comments

PHOTOS - MR. & MRS. RYAN (JUDY ANN 'JUDAY' SANTOS) AGONCILLO AND THEIR BABY, JUAN LUIS SANTOS AGONCILLO]

Undisputed Teleserye Queen Judy Ann Santos will be seen in a new show Junior Master Chef. Juday is still in the process of losing weight following the birth of her child. She wears girdles, she admits and she could not use the clothes she used to wear before. At times, she feels slighted when people tell her, she has gained weight. "Kung mataba ako at mataba rin yung nagsabi sa akin na mataba ako, ang tanong ko na lang, nabuntis ka na ba? Para sabihin mong mataba ako," she said in an interview with ABS-CBN.

There are stars who by sheer magnificence transcend trends, body weight and even controversies. Juday is one of them.

Melai busy as a bee

Melai Cantiveros denies rumors that she is living in with boyfriend Jason Francisco. The comedienne is enjoying her new-found celebrity status after she was declared Pinoy Big Brother grand winner. Her love affair with Jason whom she co-stars with in Precious Hearts Romances Presents: Mana Po started inside Kuya's house. Melai is more visible than Jason these days and admittedly has more projects than him. But it is no issue between them. "Ang pera ko sakto lang naman. Kung handa akong buhayin siya, si Jason hindi magpapabuhay yon. Jason will get mad. He would even tell me not to give him expensive gifts. Ganun ang ugali noon," she explained.

Melai is still over the moon as regard her feelings for Jason. At times, Melai reveals, she entertains the thought of having Jason the father of her would-be children. She has also mellowed and is no longer jealous of the girls around Jason. "Jason tells me to talk to him first whenever I hear rumors about him. If I catch him in the act, I will ask them to kiss and if they don't susuntukin ko talaga. Matapang ako," she said.

Melai co-hosts Happy, Yipee, Yehey! with Toni Gonzaga, Mariel Rodriguez, Randy Santiago and John Estrada.

Toni enjoys working with Uge

Toni Gonzaga is feeling lucky to be working with Eugene Domingo. No, she is not insecure about her. Toni said she admires Uge and is learning new things from her. "She is an industry veteran. She is very good. And she inspires," said Toni. While she feels there is so much pressure when working with veterans, Toni is thankful there's Uge and Direk Joey (Reyes) behind her. "Pag kasama si direk at Ate Uge sa set, hindi mo mararamdaman yon. When you are working with the best, they give you the best. That is why you also have to give your best."

Trumpets summer workshop

This summer, Trumpets Playshop continues to make learning fun and exciting with the theme Color Your World. Playshop has a class especially designed to make that star within you shine — from Musical Theater, Crumping and Poppin' and Lockin', Public Speaking, Hosting or Modeling. MusicAdemy — Playshop's Music and Language Center is also open to those who want to bring out their hidden musical talent.

New classes are also introduced this year. Photography classes for kids and adults, Filming class using mobile phones, Basic and Advanced make-up classes with Airbrush Technique under Lou Bunyi-Pareja and Voice Masterclass for Musical Theater with Prof. Janet Sabas-Aracama of the University of the Philippines College of Music.

Faculty include Jun Ofrasio for Musical Theater, The Maneouvers for Streetdance, Kata Inocencio for Public Speaking and Hosting, Patty Betita for Modeling, Patrick Uy for Photography and The CompanY for Starpower.

Workshop starts April 4 at The Podium, Shangri-La Plaza Mall, Alabang Town Center and Global City. For details, call 636-2842 and 631-7252 or drop by Trumpets MusicAdemy (fifth level, Shangri-La Plaza Mall) or log on to www.trumpetsplayshop.com.

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Chief News Editor: Sol Jose Vanzi

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PHNO-P-NOY: P-NOY VOWS TO WORK HARDER / HR EXEC: AQUINO NEEDS TO TACKLE OLD PROBLEMS

P-NOY VOWS TO WORK HARDER / HR EXEC: AQUINO NEEDS TO TACKLE OLD PROBLEMS

MANILA, MARCH 29, 2011 (STAR) By Aurea Calica - President Aquino accepts the drop in his public approval ratings as shown by the results of the latest surveys conducted by polling firms Pulse Asia and Social Weather Stations (SWS) and vowed to work harder to deliver his promise of change in the country, Malacañang said yesterday.

Last week, Pulse Asia reported that based on a survey it conducted from Feb. 24 to March 6, public approval of the Aquino administration dropped to 74 percent from 79 percent in the survey conducted last Oct. 20 to 29.

A survey conducted by SWS from March 4 to 7, on the other hand, showed that Aquino's net satisfaction rating among Filipinos went down to 51 percent from 64 in November.

It also showed that 48 percent of the population disapproved of the President's purchase of a luxury vehicle last year.

When the purchase of the Porsche caught public attention, Aquino explained that he did not purchase it brand new and used his own money to buy it.

Palace Communications Group Secretary Herminio Coloma said Aquino would not question the conduct of the surveys by the polling firms, both of which he considers to be reliable.

"He trusts (in the surveys) and his response is to strive harder to lift up the country from its hapless state before, and he also called on his Cabinet members to strengthen their programs in addressing the needs of the people," Coloma said in an interview with radio dzRH.

Coloma also disputed claims that the purchase of the Porsche greatly contributed to the decline in Aquino's approval ratings.

"We don't believe that. That is the opinion of a few. We think that the more relevant are the specific issues (and) the ones that really interest the people," Coloma said.

In another interview, with state-run radio dzRB, Coloma said the President has instructed the members of his Cabinet to submit their accomplishment reports for the first quarter of the year and inform the public about these.

"This is to fulfill the President's pledge about important points in his program for the Filipino people. The administration wants the people to know that all of the initiative that this government has been doing is a response to their needs," he said.

Aquino's allies in the House of Representatives likewise defended the decline in his approval ratings.

"As always, Filipinos are very impatient and they also have very high expectations," said Kasangga party-list Rep. Teodorico Haresco. "The Chief Executive is really more action-oriented. We must give him more time and support him."

Quezon City Rep. Winston Castelo said the decline in Aquino's approval ratings in the recent surveys is the "usual effect of good governance anchored on doing what is right and not what is popular."

Sen. Francis Escudero, an ally of the President, said the administration should not be discouraged by the results of the surveys.

"The Palace should not be affected too much by this and should instead be encouraged to work even harder, given the difficulties that the world is facing right now," he said.

Escudero, who recently topped the Pulse Asia awareness survey for senators, said the surveys are only samples of public opinion.

"It is only a snapshot of our people's opinion and should serve as a guide to the Palace as to what they should do down the road," he said.

Sen. Loren Legarda noted that the surveys were made when the country was confronted with the problem of repatriating Filipino workers from Libya, possibly influencing the opinion of respondents. - With Delon Porcalla, Christina Mendez, Paolo Romero

KILLINGS: PRESIDENT AQUINO NEEDS TO TACKLE AN OLD PROBLEM

By Kenneth Roth, Executive director, Human Rights Watch - As the son of a revered former president and democracy icon, Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino inherits the hopes for change that the Philippine people put in his late mother, Corazon, following the "People Power" revolution of 1986.

But as he takes office, President Aquino also confronts his country's enduring tragedies. Security forces and their proxies have killed hundreds of left-wing activists and political party members, outspoken clergy and human rights advocates with almost complete impunity in recent years. "Death squads" in Davao City and elsewhere have been killing target suspected petty criminals and other marginalized residents. And powerful local politicians violently eliminate their opponents and prying journalists, without penalty.

When the number of killings dropped sharply in 2007 and 2008, after much condemnation by human rights groups and international pressure, many hoped the problem simply had gone away. But the massacre of at least 58 people attributed to a ruling family in Maguindanao in November 2009 reminded the world that nothing really had changed. Already, since June 9, when Aquino was proclaimed the winner of the presidential election, three journalists and a key witness to the Maguindanao massacre have been killed.

Successive governments in Manila have, at best, failed to combat the killings. Governments have sometimes excused these attacks, citing the need to fight communist insurgents and Islamist militants. But that is no excuse for government atrocities. Noynoy Aquino's legacy as president may very well hinge on his success at ending this bloodshed and bringing those responsible to account.

During his campaign, Aquino offered lofty rhetoric about the importance of justice, ending the killings, and abolishing private armies, but so far he has not articulated specific steps to combat these problems. Unless he moves swiftly with clear and effective policies, he risks replicating the deeply troubling records of his predecessors.

First and foremost, Aquino should immediately initiate the comprehensive reforms necessary to end impunity for serious abuses. He should order the National Bureau of Investigation to investigate police and military personal at the command level who have been implicated in killings. He should also make clear to the police that they are required to pursue vigorously any crimes committed by government officials and police officers or be themselves the target of a criminal investigation.

Second, Aquino should take immediate steps to create an independent, accessible, and properly funded witness protection program. Witnesses make or break a case in the Philippines, where their testimony is often the only evidence that links a suspect to the crime. Yet, in a country where witnesses in political cases are often at great personal risk, the government does painfully little to protect them. The June 14 murder of a key witness to the Maguindanao massacre, whose pleas to the government for witness protection were ignored, was only the latest example of the consequences of this policy of neglect.

Third, Aquino should make good on his promise to address one of the underlying causes of killings: the proliferation of so-called private armies - armed groups beholden to local politicians. Unfortunately, Aquino may have an unduly narrow understanding of the problem. When I met with him in April, he told me that his promise to abolish private armies did not extend to disbanding paramilitary forces that fall outside police or military chains of command, contending they are needed as "force multipliers." The Maguindanao massacre demonstrates that supposedly "private" armies are often composed of government-endorsed militia, including police and paramilitary forces. A promise to abolish private armies is empty if it excludes addressing the government forces that fall outside police or military chains of command.

National security should never be built on forces that have such a long record of atrocities. Aquino should start by rescinding Executive Order 546, which has been interpreted by local governments and police as authority to arm these private armies. And to prevent mayors and governors from using soldiers and police for their personal interests, he should submit a priority bill to Congress to ensure that security forces answer exclusively to the military or police chain of command rather than to local government officials.

All leaders want to leave positive legacies, and Aquino has pledged to better the lot of ordinary Filipinos. Ending the killings and bringing under control the forces responsible for them would certainly be an achievement the Philippine people would long celebrate.

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Chief News Editor: Sol Jose Vanzi
© Copyright, 2011 by PHILIPPINE HEADLINE NEWS ONLINE
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