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PHNO-OPINION: PHILSTAR: UNCOVERING THE TRUTH

PHILSTAR: UNCOVERING THE TRUTH

MANILA, JULY 30, 2011 - (PHILSTAR) SKETCHES By Ana Marie Pamintuan - The Truth Commission was formed because President Aquino couldn't trust the Office of the Ombudsman to do its job.

Most of the presidential candidates in the 2010 race included the battle against corruption in their campaign promises. But only candidate Noynoy Aquino unequivocally vowed to go after the crooks in the Arroyo administration.

The inability to make a similar commitment proved to be the undoing of Sen. Manny Villar, reinforcing rumors that he had cut a deal with the Arroyo administration in exchange for its support in the elections. This rumor in turn further weakened the campaign of the official administration candidate, Gilbert Teodoro.

Villar and Teodoro pitched competence among their qualifications for the presidency. They had clear objectives – you can even call it a vision – for the nation in case they won. They each had a road map, a blueprint – everything that critics are now demanding from P-Noy as he enters his second year.

Yet in the end, voters gave the presidency by a landslide to the son of Corazon Aquino, who was untested in executive work and, as far as critics were (and still are) concerned, lacking in vision and direction.

A year hence, even some of the President's supporters are sighing that in this country, you can't have everything.

A good president, these supporters say, is one who is honest, competent and hard-working.

They note that Fidel Ramos displayed all of those qualities during his presidency, but in moderate doses, particularly on the honesty part.

Erap had none of those qualities, the supporters say, although his irresistible natural charm and cinema mystique captivated the masses.

GMA, the supporters say, was competent and hard-working.

And P-Noy is… well… honest.

The hiss from the snake pit is that P-Noy is starting to be irritated by these jokes.

* * *

Believing that all those voters wanted him to deliver on a key campaign promise, but thinking that the ombudsman was in his way, P-Noy issued his first executive order, which reflected his priorities in his presidency. EO No. 1 created the Truth Commission.

Even some P-Noy supporters, however, had misgivings about the creation of the Truth Commission. This week the Supreme Court threw out EO No. 1 with finality.

But Malacañang is no longer worried. Merceditas Gutierrez has peacefully bowed out of the Office of the Ombudsman and has stayed away from the limelight since then.

Her replacement, Conchita Carpio-Morales, is not saddled by perceptions that she is a coddler of friends in need. Carpio-Morales' challenge is to avoid being seen as beholden, like Gutierrez, to the appointing power. Uncovering the truth behind anomalies of the past, which the Truth Commission was supposed to do, is now the task of Carpio-Morales.

She will still have to establish her credentials for independence and fairness in her new position. P-Noy should welcome this, because a truly independent ombudsman will lend credibility to his anti-corruption campaign. An independent ombudsman can also keep an eye out for any member of P-Noy's official family who might be tempted to abuse power and privilege when the President isn't looking.

With Carpio-Morales sworn in, P-Noy can only hope that the cases handled by the ombudsman against those accused of graft and plunder will be airtight.

This should be true particularly in the cases filed against Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Only solid evidence will blunt accusations that her prosecution is nothing but political vendetta and a witch-hunt.

* * *

The path to the conviction of Joseph Estrada for plunder was tortuous. It required years of painstaking spadework, a lot of resources and regular overtime for the prosecutors.

The heavy work worsened Simeon Marcelo's insomnia and the other symptoms of andropause, prompting him to quit as ombudsman. But the dogged spadework paid off, and Erap became the first president – and the first big fish – to be convicted of the new crime of plunder.

Some lawyers have expressed concern that plunder complaints are being filed haphazardly by publicity hounds against GMA and her former officials, and the sloppy preparation of cases could lead to acquittals despite the existence of solid evidence.

The government must remember that guilt should be established beyond reasonable doubt to secure a conviction. Sloppy prosecution could inject that reasonable doubt. Acquittal on that basis does not necessarily mean innocence, but it can bolster accusations of a political witch-hunt, and it weakens an anti-corruption campaign.

This also goes for the tax evasion cases filed against large-scale evaders. In this, investigators of the Bureau of Internal Revenue and the Department of Justice should have an easier time, because assets are officially declared and there are ownership papers that can be used to compute taxable assets and income. These cases can lead to the forfeiture of ill-gotten wealth. In the absence of laws against racketeering in this country (possibly because some of the most notorious racketeers are lawmakers), this will have to do.

Among those slapped with cases of tax evasion are GMA's relatives. All have dismissed the cases as harassment.

GMA and her supporters have always shrugged off accusations of wrongdoing during her presidency. Their challenge to detractors has always been: Prove it.

There's no room for complacency in confronting that challenge.

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Chief News Editor: Sol Jose Vanzi

© Copyright, 2011 by PHILIPPINE HEADLINE NEWS ONLINE
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PHNO-OPINION: TRIBUNE: P-NOY EMBRACING THE 'WANG-WANG' CULTURE

TRIBUNE: P-NOY EMBRACING THE 'WANG-WANG' CULTURE

MANILA, JULY 30, 2011 - (TRIBUNE) FRONTLINE Ninez Cacho-Olivares - Noynoy claims to be treading the straight path and has even called on the nation to do away with what he calls the "wang-wang" culture representing abuse of power and privilege. He says that as president, his vision is the nation's social transformation. He also says that he is there to strengthen the institutions and even speaks even of instilling independence in such institutions.

But what he says is not necessarily what he does, that's for certain.

Noynoy called for an end to corruption, yet he and his aides are heavy into corrupting the House of Representatives by dangling the congressional pork barrel release in exchange for the swift passage of his proposed national budget.

But if, as he claims, he wants to strengthen the institutions, one of which is the House, whose members are said to be representatives of the people, why is he resorting to bribery and further corrupting the already corrupt congressmen? Why should there be a quid pro quo for the congressmen's pork barrel, when this is what is really due them, as allocated in the national budget?

Why is he using the pork barrel carrot to get what he wants — and what he wants is definitely for the House not to even scrutinize the budget, but pass it as is — with absolutely no cuts. Is this what his claimed daang matuwid is all about? Is this what an "honest" and "transparent" administration does and is this what he claims is good governance through bribery and corruption?

This is not Noynoy's first try at bribing and corrupting the House members. He has done it twice over, the first being the bribe to congressmen to vote for the impeachment of the then Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez, and the second was the bribe to congressmen to vote for the postponement of the elections of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

That he has used this vile and corrupt practice has been proved when several congressmen, among whom was Rep. Toby Tiangco, complained of their not having received their Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) while the others already got theirs, the reason being that Tiangco and others voted no on the two measures that Noynoy wanted passed. They got zero pork, while others who voted yes to one, but no to another, got ony half of their PDAF, while the rest who voted the way Noynoy wanted them to vote, got their release.

The third time around came just the other day, when the Speaker, Sonny Belmonte, with media present, asked the Budget secretary to release the PDAF of the congressmen to ensure the swift passage of the P1.8-trillion budget. But why is there that need to ensure the swift passage which really means that in exchange, the House is not to scrutinize the budget but to pass it quickly without cuts, just as it did for last year's budget?

If the budget were above board and can be justified by Malacañang, why does it need to bribe the members of the House with the release of their 2010 PDAF?

And it is not only the House that is being corrupted by the self proclaimed "honest and clean" Noynoy. Even the senators were given additional pork — some P30 million each, taken from the Road Board Tax — and it certainly was said to be in exchange for a yes vote to the ARMM poll postponement, where Congress gave Noynoy the power to appoint OICs in what should be elective offices.

Isn't that the mark of the wang-wang culture embedded in the top official of the land, who has the gall to even denounce such wang-wang culture that he himself practices?

And should the nation say to Noynoy and his prostituted congressmen, thank you, for screwing us again and again while hypocritically calling for social transformation?

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Chief News Editor: Sol Jose Vanzi

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PHNO-OPINION: THE FREEMAN EDITORIAL: AQUINO SHOULD KEEP ALBAY GOV IN LINE

THE FREEMAN EDITORIAL: AQUINO SHOULD KEEP ALBAY GOV IN LINE

MANILA, JULY 30, 2011 - (STAR) THE FREEMAN Updated July 30, 2011 12:00 AM - President Aquino should cut Albay Governor Joey Salceda down to size instead of ignoring or even dignifying his uncalled for and off tangent rantings. Not doing anything undermines his own policies and lends credence to perceptions he is soft on his friends even when they err.

When typhoon Juaning visited great destruction in Luzon, especially in Albay, it is easy to see local leaders like Salceda getting distressed. Their blaming Pagasa is even understandable under the circumstances. After all, flogging a scapegoat does help sometimes.

But for Salceda to go on TV and say Pagasa should have listened to him when he suggested that it place Albay under a storm signal, that is already going overboard in his understanding of his own authority. Not even Aquino can dictate on Pagasa what bulletins to issue the public.

Salceda claims that while conditions in Albay already indicated bad weather, the Pagasa did not include his province in the list of places it placed under storm warning. More prudent leaders, of course, would have reacted to the prevailing conditions, with or without Pagasa.

But Salceda apparently found it better to bitch than act. So while others saw no need for a weatherman to tell them which way the wind blows and chose to act promptly, Salceda decided to wait for Pagasa until it was too late. And thus his province suffered greatly as a result.

And now he blames Pagasa. He refuses to see that, as he continues to bitch, it becomes increasingly clear that the problem is getting to be less and less about the weather and more and more about character and leadership qualities.

It is not just presumptuous but arrogant as well for Salceda to think the governorship vests in him the power and the authority to hijack the functions of clearly distinct, separate and highly specialized agencies such as the Pagasa.

Yet this is not the first time Salceda outgrew his breeches. After tensions with China broke over the Spratlys, he preempted Aquino government initiatives and official responses by unilaterally calling for a boycott of Chinese products, thus undermining its foreign policies.

Salceda is a midnight Liberal Party inductee so there ought to be little love lost, if at all, if Aquino decides correctly to cut Salceda down to size. Ordering the Pagasa investigated not only dignifies the folly, it makes Aquino look limp after having just praised it in his SONA.

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PHNO-OPINION: STANDARD TODAY: WRONG TREE

STANDARD TODAY: WRONG TREE

MANILA, JULY 30, 2011 - (STANDARD) ONE of the best things about President Aquino's State-of-the-Nation Address this week was his acknowledgment that we need to create more and better jobs at home.

"Before, our foremost ambition was to work in another country," the President said.

"Now, the Filipino can take his pick. As long as he pursues his dreams with determination and diligence, he can realize them. The number of jobs generated in our country can only grow from here."

Later, toward the end of his speech, the President also talked about things we should all be grateful about:

"If you fall sick, and you see your nurse caring for you, when she could easily be treating foreigners for a higher salary—say, 'Thank you.'

"Before you leave school for home, approach your teacher who chose to invest in your future—say, 'Thank you.'"

Now, who would argue against the virtue of gratitude? Or love of country?

Apparently, a group of migrant workers would.

The group, calling themselves the United Filipinos in Hong Kong, accused the President of showing contempt toward Filipinos who chose to work abroad.

"We detest the implication that [Filipino workers overseas] chose to serve foreigners instead of their countrymen," the group said.

"We protest the underlying contempt of President Aquino towards migrants who had no choice but to work overseas, separated from our families and communities, because the past and the present administration failed miserably to provide jobs and livelihood and denied basic social services to the Filipino people."

The group reminded the President that the economy is dependent on remittances from the Filipinos working abroad, who account for a third of the country's gross domestic product.

The group's leader also accused Mr. Aquino of being "out of touch from the reality that more than 4,000 Filipinos are leaving the country every day to work abroad."

Instead of indulging in rhetoric, the group said, the Aquino administration should work to enhance the protection given to Filipinos who work abroad.

Sadly, the United Filipinos in Hong Kong is barking up the wrong tree.

Perhaps this sensitivity to perceived slights comes from being called "modern-day heroes" all these years. We do not see the underlying contempt that the group attributes to the President. Certainly, praising one group of people—those that chose to stay and work in the country—does not indicate contempt for those that found employment abroad. Even the United Filipinos of Hong Kong must acknowledge there is an element of self-sacrifice that is admirable in a teacher who would rather suffer low wages here than earn more as a household help abroad. That teacher—if he or she is a good one —is a hero too.

If there is one thing that migrant groups should take exception to, it is the lack of progress that this administration has shown so far in creating well-paying jobs at home. Creating job opportunities at home requires careful planning, diligence and hard work. It is not a sideline that the President can attend to occasionally, when taking a break from his apparent full-time job of leading a national witchhunt against the previous administration.

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PHNO-BE: COURT OF APPEALS DISMISSED BANCO FILIPINO CASE VS BSP, MONETARY BOARD

COURT OF APPEALS DISMISSED BANCO FILIPINO CASE VS BSP, MONETARY BOARD

[PHOTO - BANCO FILIPINO NOW CLOSED]

MANILA, JULY 30, 2011 (STAR) By Edu Punay - The Court of Appeals (CA) has overturned an earlier ruling of the Makati City Regional Trial Court (RTC) ordering the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and Monetary Board (MB) to release up to P25 billion in financial assistance package and other regulatory relief to the now closed Banco Filipino Savings and Mortgage Bank.

In a 25-page decision, the special 10th division of the appellate court ordered the dismissal of the case filed by Banco Filipino against BSP and MB and also nullified the ruling of the Makati RTC for the release of the aid.

The CA said the trial court should have not acted on the case for lack of jurisdiction.

"The RTC has no jurisdiction over the petition for certiorari and mandamus filed by Banco Filipino in Civil Case No. 10-1042. It is this court (CA) that has jurisdiction over such petition pursuant to Rule 65, Section 4 of the 1997 Revised Rules of Civil Procedure.

"Wherefore, the petition (filed by BSP and MB) is granted. The order dated Nov. 17, 2010 issued by respondent Judge Joselito C. Villarosa of the Regional Trial Court, Branch 66, Makati City, in Civil Case No. 10-1042, is annulled and set aside. In lieu thereof, judgment is hereby rendered dismissing Civil Case No. 10-1042 on the ground of RTC's lack of jurisdiction over the same," stated the ruling penned by Associate Justice Hakim Abdulwahid.

Associate Justices Noel Tijam and Ricardo Rosario concurred with the ruling.

Last March, the CA issued a writ of preliminary injunction against the order of Judge Villarosa directing the bank and its policy-making body, the Monetary Board, to implement its Resolution No. 1668 issued on Nov. 19, 2009.

The CA held that BSP and MB "stand to suffer grave and irreparable injury" if the trial court's order is not enjoined pending the decision on the merits of the case.

In the assailed order, the RTC restrained both MB and BSP officers, employees and representatives "from enforcing other regulatory measures and abuses calculated to coerce petitioner (Banco Filipino) into agreeing to drop and/or withdraw its suits and damage claims against respondents (MB and BSP) and to waive future claims against respondents or their officers, employees, representatives and all persons acting in their behalf."

The BSP and the MB were also restrained by the trial court "from continuing and committing acts prejudicial to petitioner's (Banco Filipino's) operation."

In its petition, BSP and MB argued that the Makati RTC violated their right to due process when it took cognizance of the case filed by Banco Filipino despite its lack of jurisdiction.

The petitioners further argued that allowing the case to proceed would prevent BSP from performing its constitutionally mandated duty to provide policy direction in banking activities and to supervise the operations of banks.

RELATES NEWS EARLIER

BSP: Banco Filipino mismanaged depositors' money Business Mirror Posted at 03/28/2011 8:08 AM | Updated as of 03/28/2011 11:00 AM

MANILA, Philippines - The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas said on Sunday alleged mismanagement and excesses through the years brought down the Banco Filipino Savings and Mortgage Bank (BF) a second time and forced authorities to place it under receivership yet again.

Such excesses were in the form of alleged lavish spending and unpaid loans to the bank itself and the central bank, whose cumulative impact forced the decision to appoint the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. as receiver and take control of BF.

"The officers of Banco Filipino Savings and Mortgage Bank mismanaged money entrusted to them by their depositors by its continued lavish spending and allowing loans to remain unpaid, including billions in overdue loans granted to its stockholders, officers and related companies," the BSP said in a statement sent by e-mail.

According to the BSP, 91% of all loans taken out as of Sept. 20, 2010, were already past due.

"In particular, uncollected overdue loans to BF directors, officers, stockholders and their related interests reached P2.2 billion, or more than half of BF's total loan portfolio," the BSP said.

It noted while the bank's annual gross income over a 3-year period ending 2009 averaged only P242.5 million, BF allegedly racked up expenses for salaries, benefits and professional fees averaging P597 million, or 2.5 times more than the bank was earning.

"In 2010 legal fees alone reached P245 million, of which P131 million was spent in the last quarter," the BSP said.

This developed even though BF owes the BSP P4.4 billion in loans outstanding as of September 2010, the BSP said.

"Banco Filipino lured depositors with interest rates way above prevailing market rates. For instance, while most banks pay interest of 1% to 2% for special savings deposits, BF paid so much more—from 6% to 13.9% for special savings deposits. As a result, BF's interest expense was higher than its interest income. Between 2007 and 2009, its average negative net interest margin was P1 billion a year," the BSP said.

The BSP also said a huge chunk of BF's assets were, in fact, "losses that have been capitalized."

"In the days before it was placed under PDIC receivership, BF was no longer able to settle its obligations as they fall due. For instance, due to insufficient balance in its demand deposit account with the BSP, the Philippine Clearing House Corp. returned about P789 million worth of BF checks as of March 15, 2011.

"Also on March 15, the BSP started receiving complaints from BF depositors in different parts of the country that they were no longer able to withdraw their deposits from BF," the BSP said.

The BSP said that in performing its regulatory role over banks, "it always strives to strike a balance between full adherence to due process and the faithful enforcement of banking laws and prudential regulations that protect our banking system."

In 1985 BF was ordered closed by the then-Central Bank of the Philippines on grounds of alleged insolvency, but was subsequently allowed to reopen in 1994, when the Supreme Court ruled the closure was illegal.

The bank has an P18.8-billion damage suit against the Central Bank-Board of Liquidators, or CB-BOL.

There is dispute as to whether the BSP may be held liable for the acts of the defunct Central Bank as the latter's successor in interest. The BSP has steadfastly held they are not a successor in interest to the old central bank.

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Chief News Editor: Sol Jose Vanzi
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PHNO-SB: SPECIAL SYMPHONY INSPIRES CHRISTIAN BAUTISTA

SPECIAL SYMPHONY INSPIRES CHRISTIAN BAUTISTA

MANILA, JULY 27, 2011 (STAR) By Gian Carlo Vizcarra (PHOTO - Christian's first international film tackles the plight of special children)

Christian Bautista's first international film A Special Symphony boasts of an appeal that lies in its heartwarming story, the moving performances of its actors, its touching music and most importantly, the poignant discussion on the plight of special children.

The movie, which opens on Aug. 3 in theaters nationwide, will have a special Red Carpet Premiere on July 31, 8 p.m. at Robinsons Galleria.

"The movie has a lot of heart. It is inspiring and it speaks of a great kind of love," says Christian. "We hope to touch the hearts of everyone who will watch the movie, just as we were touched during the filming of this movie."

Although currently busy taping for the upcoming Pan-Asian musical series The Kitchen Musical alongside Karylle in Singapore, Christian will be coming home to attend the premiere of the movie.

Christian adds that he's making it a point to attend the movie premiere because he believes in the movie's message of love, hope and inspiration.

A Special Symphony follows the story of a struggling Filipino singer named Jayden (Christian) who is on a journey towards finding his life's purpose and happiness.

The movie is bold in tackling the needs of special children in the movie and how music, love and friendship can be transformative, making life more enjoyable and meaningful for them. Some members of the cast are, in fact, special kids.

The movie has earned the endorsement of the Autism Society of the Philippines.

"There are many similarities between me and Jayden, most obvious of which is that we are both singers," shares the Asia's Romantic Balladeer. "Ultimately, however, we both want to provide or help other people to have positive changes in their lives."

A Special Symphony was inspired by the amazing story of a choir composed of special children in Beijing, China, and how their exposure to music stimulated their minds, developed their well-being and earned them the adulation of many people.

Perfect for the theme of the movie is the song I Am Already King, which topped the MYX Daily Countdown and OPM Countdown for numerous days. The single is the carrier track in Universal Records' latest compilation album The Best of OPM Love Songs Vol. 1.

A Special Symphony is produced by Nation Pictures Indonesia and is directed by Awi Suryada. It also stars Ira Wibowo, Ira Maya Sopha and Gista Putri.

The movie will debut in Indonesia in September.

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Chief News Editor: Sol Jose Vanzi

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PHNO-SB: CORY, THE MUSICAL SLATED FOR AUGUST

CORY, THE MUSICAL SLATED FOR AUGUST

MANILA, JULY 30, 2011 (STAR) (PHOTO - Isay Alvarez as Cory and Sherwin Sozon as Ninoy Aquino)

The original musical that paid tribute to the sacrifices of Ninoy and Cory Aquino will be re-staged on the occasion of Ninoy's death anniversary come Aug. 20 and 21 at the Meralco Theater. Directed by Nestor Torre and produced by Buhay Isang Awit Foundation of Bing Pimentel, Cory, The Musical was first shown in 2008, before the death of former Pres. Aquino.

The 19 songs composed by Pimentel relate the story of both Ninoy and Cory, their love for each other and the country which led to Cory's ascendancy to the presidency to help restore democracy. As in the past staging, lead performers are Isay Alvarez as Cory, opera singer Sherwin Sozon as Ninoy, Robert Seña as Ferdinand Marcos, Pinky Marquez as Imelda Marcos and Tommy Abuel as the reporter. All cleared their calendars to make way for rehearsals and repeat staging of the musical.

The play delineates how they met, how as wife and mother Cory kept to the background while providing the sturdy support to her husband, before finally evolving into the strong woman who rallied the Filipino people to seek an end to the 20 years of dictatorship.

After watching the musical, former solicitor general Frank Chavez commented: "The stage musical is a wonderful concatenation of the talents of Bing Pimentel, Nestor Torre and Isay Alvarez and the entire cast…a timely reminder, particularly during these times of oppression and unabashed corruption that the time has come once again to rally the people to man the ramparts of freedom and good governance."

For details, call Marichelle Torres of St. James College at 926-3930 for Aug. 20, 2:30 p.m. matinee performance; Clarisse or Maelyn at 882-0678 loc. 307 for Aug. 20, 7:30 p.m. show; and Isabel Hillerstam of Noble Life International at 0922-8438397 for Aug. 21, 8 p.m. show.

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PHNO-SB: CHERIE GIL HIRAP NA MAGSALITA

CHERIE GIL HIRAP NA MAGSALITA

MANILA, JULY 30, 2011 (PilipinoSTAR) ABOUT SHOWBIZ Ni Nitz Miralles - Hindi na naman natuloy ang matagal ng plano ni Cherie Gil na magpa-opera ng kanyang throat dahil sa Time of My Life.

Hindi niya matanggihan ang project na tungkol sa sayaw dahil love niya ang sumayaw at first love niya ito.

Balak din niyang mag-aral ng Tango sa Argentina na hindi rin natuloy dahil sa danseryeng magsisimula mapanood sa Monday, August 1.

Ang dami raw niyang dance number at isa sa pinapaabangan ay ang dance number niya with 150 female inmates ng Women's Correctional at ang tugtog ay Edge of Glory ni Lady Gaga.

"Pero last na 'to, after Time of My Life, magpapa-opera na talaga ako. Nahihirapan na akong magsalita. Hindi ko lang ma-resist ang project, this is a dream come true for me because I love dancing."

Kinumusta kay Cherie si Andi Eigenmann at tama namang kakikita lang niya sa pamangkin last Sunday sa salu-salong ipinatawag niya. "Wala akong ibinigay na advice sa kanya, just a big hug and acceptance, that's all."

Direktor ng dating Survivor babu na sa GMA 7

Hindi deretsahang sinagot ni Richard Gutierrez ang tanong ng press kung totoong bago na ang director ng Season 4 ng Survivor Philippines na muli niyang iho-host. Ang sabi lang nito, he'll be working with a new team, kaya bago at mas mahirap ang challenges na haharapin ng castaways.

Sinabi na sa amin ang pangalan ng bagong director ng Survivor Philippines, pero saka na namin papangalanan at hindi pa yata puwede. Ang masasabi lang namin, homegrown GMA 7 director siya at may hawak na shows ngayon sa network.

Ang inaalam namin ay kung totoong lumipat sa TV5 ang dating director ng Survivor Philippines at ito raw ang magdidirek ng remake ng P.S. I Love You.

Samantala, nakataas na ang billboard ni Richard ng Flawless commercial at na-capture ang kagwapuhan ng actor.

GMA 7 co-prod sa movie nina Juday at Ryan

Pare-parehong may movie sa Metro Manila Film Festival ang tweens ng GMA Artist Center at GMA 7, kaya tuluy-tuloy ang kanilang trabaho.

Magkakasama sa Panday 2 sina Barbie Forteza, Joshua Dionisio, Bea Binene, Jake Vargas at Alden Richards. Kasama naman sa My Househusband ng OctoArts Films sina Derrick Monasterio, Lexi Fernandez, Kristoffer Martin at Joyce Ching.

Excited ang mga bagets dahil kung sina Barbie, sina Sen. Bong Revilla, Iza Calzado, at Marian Rivera ang makakasama sa Panday 2, ang grupo nina Derrick, sina Ryan Agoncillo at Judy Ann Santos naman ang makaka-eksena.

Sa pagpasok ng GMA Artist Center sa pelikula ng OctoArts Films, parang gusto naming maniwala sa tsikang co-producer ni Orly Ilacad ang GMA Films sa MMFF entry nila.

Ito siguro ang rason kung bakit nagkaroon ng meeting ang bossing ng GMA Films kay direk Joey Reyes.

Ibig bang sabihin nito, magpo-promote ng movie sa GMA 7 sina Ryan at Judy Ann?

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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-SB: PINOY REALITY TV: BIGGEST LOSER ALAN VOTED OUT, NOW BACK IN CEBU

PINOY REALITY TV: BIGGEST LOSER ALAN VOTED OUT, NOW BACK IN CEBU

[PHOTO - SHARON CUNETA HOSTS BIGGEST LOSER, PINOY EDITION, ABS-CBN]

MANILA, JULY 30, 2011 (STANDARD) by Isah V. Red - It shocked me when the leader of the former Blue Team in the new reality TV on ABS-CBN, Alan Choachuy, was voted to leave the Biggest Loser Pinoy Edition camp in the show's Monday edition.

Alan, who I thought would last till the finals, registered the second lowest percentage weight loss in last Monday's weigh in. Logically, since this is a contest and not a soap opera, between him and Art (who had the least weight percentage loss) the surviving contestants were anticipated to vote out Alan were a more competent leader and psychologically more stable than the all of them in the camp.

Art, the leader of the former Red Team, survived the elimination, thanks to his former team mates.

Art and Alan fell below the yellow line in the weigh in after losing the least percentage of weight. They could have both been saved if Ryan and Eboy, the bets of the original 'Bigating Pinoys,' lost more pounds than Andy and Leigh did.

Ryan, who earned a five pound advantage in the Temptation challenge, still emerged a winner as the Biggest Loser of the Week with a weight loss of 4.72 percent.

Alan, showing no tears, frustration, or anger, gave the program's most graceful exit. He, however, admitted that it was hard for him to leave as his fellow contestants had become like his own family.

"I miss Larry, because we always did things together, training and cooking. Art, because we were the leaders of our teams and we always motivated each other. I also miss Angela, she is super sweet and I feel like she is my younger sister," he said when he was on his way back to Cebu.

Alan hoped that Angela, who joined the show to become fit when she and her husband start a family, and her husband would experience the joy he and wife Caroline felt when they had their first baby.

Alan promised to continue his journey to a healthy and fit lifestyle outside of the Biggest Loser camp. In fact, he intends to join fun runs and hopes to eventually run a half marathon. He said the lessons he learned inside the camp has kept him motivated.

"I learned that it's never too late to make a change, and before you want to change other people, you should look (at) yourself in the mirror. Start with you and be a role model," he said.

Soccer mania on primetime TV

Futbolilits is the Kapuso network's reaction to the growing popularity of soccer in the Philippines. While its official name as a sport is soccer, Filipinos endearingly refer to it as football.

The series features kids (a team made up young boys from the more affluent families in a town and the other those who are underprivileged.

Apart from the drama on the soccer field, the show also is teeming with melodramatic encounters between and among its adult characters played by Raymart Santiago, Paolo Contis, Jennylyn Mercado among others.

It has also elements of fantasy, with a magic pair of shoes helping the team of underprivileged children win their matches against the team of children on the wealthy side of the town.

However, if you have been more familiar with American TV series, don't expect too much from this show, as the story telling is too far stretched, meandering around the football field before reaching the goal. Whether it will be a score in the end or not, that's the main problem of the scriptwriters.

Children make good drama draw

Ask me why Munting Heredera is winning the ratings game, and I'll answer you with just one word: children.

Children have become TV's newest primetime attraction. Take 100 Days to Heaven, for example. Do you think without Xyriel Manabat that show could even muster a double digit primetime percentage rating points?

Now, the Kapuso network is not surprised Munting Heredera's ratings has been improving since its first telecast a couple of months back. Now, the production staff are trying to weigh things whether to extend it or not as there are clamors from the audience.

The show seems to have found a new spark when the peace-loving Lola Ana schemed to trap Lynette and make her pay for her lies and dishonesty. Also, the arrogant daughter of Lynette seems to be self-destructing…hmmm, seems the writers of GMA-7 are learning the fundamentals of soap opera, huh!....and the female lead character is gaining more wisdom….that's the kind of drama that works, right?'

Munting Heredera features Gloria Romero, Camille Prats, Mark Anthony Fernandez, and Katrina Halili, among many, on GMA-7's primetime block.

Ten-minute wonder

Every season, Quickfire, the only 10-minute kitchen wonder program on TV, gives viewers a good reason to catch quick and easy mouth-watering recipes. Currently airing its 12th season, it now offers a new twist as it features not only sumptuous dishes but its creative creators as well—who are all loyal viewers!

Hosted by Rosebud Benitez (photo), the show features 10-minute wonders as part of the program's latest treat.

Nheavel Gracilla, Anita Regondola-Cunanan, Ninia Rodil-de Luna, Jacel Ramirez, Mary Suing-Gayeta, Marivic Sta. Iglesia, Aisel Peleyo-Pajuyo, Apple Lim, Tiffany Manlapaz, and Aira Lunas Avila are just some of the foodies who delightedly reveal their recipes.

Inspired by watching Quickfire, they were able to concoct easy-to-cook meals that are healthy, delicious, and even light on the budget, like Nheavel Gracilla's Chicken Balls in Curry Sauce and Marivic Sta. Iglesia's Agedashi Tofu.

Giving a twist to the usual vegetable Pinoy viand, Anita Regondola-Cunanan shares her five-Spice Chopsuey and her own recipe of Asian Chicken and Leek Stir Fry. Dentist to the stars Ninia Rodil-De Luna, in turn, demonstrates how she created the irresistible BBQ Prawns with Mango Salsa and Steamed Lapu-Lapu with Ginger Sauce.

Working mom Jacel Ramirez reveals that her love for seafood has led her to invent mouthwatering Mixed Seafoods Escabeche while her Potato Wedges with Pork Carnitas is a creative treat for her family.

Meanwhile, Mary Suing-Gayeta from Cainta, Rizal delivers a new twist to pork, pineapple, mussels and eggplant with her dishes that the whole family will surely enjoy—Pork Cutlet with Pineapple and Tortang Tahong sa Talong.

Other 10-minute kitchen wonders this season are Tiffany Manlapaz' Crispy Baby Squid, Aira Lunas Avila's Beefy Brocolli, Apple Lim's Cuban Rice ala Bulacan and Asian Sweet and Spicy Wings, and Aisel Peleyo-Pajuyo's Anised Bistek Tagalog and Chorizo Lumpia.

Quickfire is served several times daily on GMA News TV Channel 11.

Jay is a rice farmer

Tonight, George Foster Peabody award winner Jay Taruc (photo) drives his motorcycle up north to Nueva Ecija, to till the fields with rice farmers.

He joins Tata Martin Pangilinan who has been sowing and tilling land from farm to farm for 30 years now. All the while, he has never owned his own land. He lives with his wife Fely who is sick but has been unable to seek medical assistance because of their meager income. In a tattered hut in the middle of their landlord's farm, they suffer hunger pangs and cold nights, having given up on their hope of a better life.

Why are people who plant our farmlands such as Tata Martin unable to fill their own stomachs? Jay Taruc takes on the backbreaking work this week as he uncovers the sacrifices of peasants despite government's promise of land reform and alleviation of the common farmer's woes.

The farming episode of Motorcycle Diaries airs at 8 tonight, also on GMA News TV Channel 11.

Kenny Rogers at Clark

There's a new Kenny Rogers in Central Luzon.

Kenny Rogers brand ambassador and tri-athlete Mica Tantuico and general manager Danny Pumarega led the ceremonial ribbon cutting ceremonies at the opening of Kenny Rogers Roasters at the ground floor of SM Clark in Pampanga, the restaurant's 40th branch in the Philippines.

Kenny Rogers is the only restaurant chain in the country that has taken an aggressive role in promoting healthy eating. Also present during the opening were Patricia Erin Tiglao, Mutya ng Angeles 2nd runner up; Tantuico, Pumarega, Lara Isabelle Dizon, Mutya ng Angeles winner; and Chanice de La Cruz, Mutya ng Angeles 3rd runner up.

Vote for next SM Little Star 2011

SM Little Stars Preliminary Screening culminated recently at selected SM malls with over 200 candidates qualifying for the Regional Finals that will he be held on Aug. 7.

Fifteen percent of the criteria for judging go to the Popularity Vote for the Regional Finals.

Everyone is invited to vote.

With a single or accumulated purchase of any Children's Wear merchandise, the voter gets a ballot coupon on which he can write the name of the candidate of choice.

He can drop the ballot coupon at designated drop box/es in the mall or at any branches of SM Department Store.

The percentage of votes will be computed based on the highest points garnered by the contestants. The highest garnered votes will be the base divisor of each of the candidates' garnered votes (in points). Voting period is until Aug. 41 (from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.).

The deadline of dropping of ballot coupons is at 9 p.m. of the same day.

Harry Potter's last film

Braving the storm last Tuesday, I watched Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in 3D, curious why everyone seems to go gaga over this film, apart from the fact that it's the ending to the two-part Deathly Hallows.

I failed to watch the first part in cinemas but made sure that I watched it on DVD at home, and I must say I didn't comprehend what it was really all about.

The second part picks up where Harry Potter left off in the first part, but still I am lost. Honestly, I am not a fan of the book's writer, in similar fashion as I don't go crazy over the Twilight series.

Now, the second part doesn't offer much, just like the first. Apart from the film is already darker than it's first two installments, this second part of the last of the Potter books seems to have been soaked in magic gobbledygook I can't even understand what Potter is trying to do…survive Voldemort's rage…oh yes that simple I am able to grasp.

In some parts of the film my eyes could no longer hold up to the 3D technology…I think this film is best suited to 2D…I gave in to what it wanted…close them and for a while my mind was off Harry. It felt good, especially with the air-conditioning inside the Cinema 3 in Trinoma.

When I opened my eyes, it was like half-an hour to the film's end. I told myself…wait for the DVD copy and you can watch the movie again…and again…or if you fall asleep once more…you can play it again and watch.

So, Harry, I'll wait for the film on DVD…and hopefully not for long.

Feedback

We got mail from a Gary Granada fan who is very thankful for the feature we did on the singer recently. Here it is:

Dear Isah,

Your information about Gary Granada's "Essential Collection" in your 'Schmucks' column today, July 26, is a most refreshing news. I am a full fledged Gary Granada fan as I simply admire the sense and depth in the music of the man. Gary is one of the musical geniuses of our times. One of my saddest days as a music fan was when I bought his last album "Basurero Sa Luneta" where he declared that the album would be his last. That is why the news about his collection has breathed a sense of hope to fans like me who will continue to await Gary's resumption of his music-weaving.

May I know where the said collection can be bought.

Thanks and with every good wish.

Best, Jojo V. Mejia

jojovmejia@yahoo.com

Thanks for the feedback, Jojo.

BIGGEST LOSER, PINOY EDITION

"The Biggest Loser Pinoy Edition" Contestants Inspire Sharon Cuneta To Slim Down Friday, June 3, 2011 , Posted by JED at 1:43:00 PM

"The Biggest Loser Pinoy Edition," the newest offering from reality show capital ABS-CBN, has proven to be a heavyweight not just in the ratings game but also in the hearts of viewers. The show even became a top trending topic in Twitter during its pilot airing with people tweeting their sentiments as they were touched if not inspired by the stories and determination of the contestants.

After posting a rating of 20.5 percent on its premiere telecast based on the national TV ratings from Kantar Media last Monday, May 30, the Sharon Cuneta-hosted reality show has consistently crushed competition and entered the top five TV programs in the country on a daily basis.

More importantly, the inspiring stories of the 14 "Bigating Pinoy" contestants have moved viewers, even Sharon herself.

When the Megastar first met the contestants, who from being 12 became 14 after an early twist in the competition, they felt star-struck and were at loss for words. But the scenes during the recent weigh-in would show the iconic singer-actress was just as at awe and honored to have met them.

Obviously fighting tears, Sharon made a surprising revelation while the contestants lined up to find out their starting weight.

"I had a midlife crisis. I was very angry. 'Cause I was everybody's sweetheart all of a sudden I turned a year older, everybody changed. And I lost all desire to look good," she bravely said.

But after seeing the determination of the 14 to face the truth about their condition and their determination to transform their lives, Sharon regained faith in herself to change for the better.

"Thank you for making me feel this. I will work hard to slim down and get back in shape," she said.

Her encouragements and own sharing created an impact on the 14 - Alan, Art, Eboy, Eric, JM, Larry, Raffy, Ryan, Angela, Destiny, Edden, Joy, Hazel and Winwin - because she made them feel they have one more ally in their journey.

Winwin said she feels at home in the camp, because they have someone who understands them and really cares for them. Raffy also said that his respect for the revered actress even grew higher.

The contestants weren't the only ones positively affected by Sharon's approach as a host.

Wilbur Ryan Serrano said in Twitter, "I feel yung sincerity ni #sharoncuneta sa mga @BLPinoyEdition ..if theres a will..theres a way...go go go!!"

In the popular forum Pinoyexchange izzzzzlaw also posted "gusto ko maghost dito si ate shawie kase may sympathy sya sa mga contstants , at nagmomotivate sa kanila.."

The people behind the program, meanwhile, hope that while viewers continue to support the program, they also begin transforming their own lives, even if it's not obesity they have to fight.

On the coming days, they will get to see more action as the trainers Jim Saret and Chinggay Andrada begin the rigorous training for their respective teams. Using different methods, the two are wasting no time in getting the contestants to lose as much weight in time for the weigh-in next week. After all, the group with the lesser average percentage of weight-loss will have to pick one member from their team to oust in the show.

Which "Bigating Pinoy" will fall first and which team will win the challenges with game master Derek Ramsay?

Don't miss the exciting developments in the reality show that will bring big changes to the lives of every Filipino, "The Biggest Loser Pinoy Edition," Monday to Friday on ABS-CBN's Primetime Bida.

----------------------------------------------------------

Chief News Editor: Sol Jose Vanzi

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

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PHILIPPINE HEADLINE NEWS ONLINE [PHNO] WEBSITE

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PHNO-P-NOY: SOLON TO NOY: DON'T MEDDLE W/ OMBUDSMAN'S JOB / HK OFWs INSULTED BY SONA

SOLON TO NOY: DON'T MEDDLE W/ OMBUDSMAN'S JOB / HK OFWs INSULTED BY SONA

MANILA, JULY 30, (TRIBUNE) By Charlie V. Manalo - A senior member of the minority bloc at the House of Representatives yesterday called on President Aquino to uphold the independence of the Office of the Ombudsman and not meddle with its affairs.

In a statement, House Minority Leader Edcel Lagman (Photo) said Aquino should respect the independence of the Ombudsman and avoid putting on the spot newly appointed Ombudsman retired Supreme Court Justice Conchita Carpio-Morales by giving her a marching order to go all-out in prosecuting former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

"President Aquino must respect the independence of the Office of the Ombudsman by not putting on the spot Ombudsman Carpio-Morales, by suggesting that she should pursue the mission of the scuttled Truth Commission in prosecuting the former President," Lagman said.

To further highlight his veiled instruction, Lagman said Aquino even went to the extent of announcing that the documents and evidence against the former President and her officials which were submitted to or gathered by the infirm and disbanded Truth Commission will be transmitted to the new Ombudsman.

"The President is virtually giving the new Ombudsman marching orders to prioritize the prosecution of his immediate predecessor," Lagman said.

Such actuations of the President, according to Lagman, "only demean and politicize the Office of the Ombudsman, an independent constitutional body, which should be allowed to voluntarily assume jurisdiction, freely conduct its own investigations and judiciously resolve complaints."

Ironically, Lagman added, while Aquino had denounced Arroyo for allegedly co-opting now retired Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez, he himself is effectively pressuring the new Ombudsman with his importuning.

FROM MANILA BULLETIN

SoNA hurts OFWs in HK By JC BELLO RUIZ July 29, 2011, 6:51pm

MANILA, Philippines — A group of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs ) in Hong Kong found "insulting" the part of President Benigno S. Aquino III's second State-of-the-Nation Address (SoNA) urging Filipinos to thank nurses who chose to stay in the Philippines for a lower pay rather than working abroad to serve foreigners in exchange for higher salary.

"We detest the implication that OFWs chose to serve foreigners instead of their countrymen," said Dolores Balladares, chairman of the United Filipinos in Hong Kong (UNIFIL-MIGRANTE HK).

"We protest the underlying contempt of President Aquino toward migrants who had no choice but to work overseas, separated from our families and communities, because the past and the present administration failed miserably to provide jobs and livelihood and denied basic social services to the Filipino people," she stressed.

The subject of their protest is the part of Aquino's SoNA last July 25 stating: "Kung magkasakit ka at makita mo ang nars na nag-aruga sa iyo, sa halip na magserbisyo sa dayuhan kapalit ng mas malaking suweldo, pakisabi rin po, 'salamat po' (If you get sick, and you see the nurse who takes care of you, instead of serving foreigners in exchange for higher salary, please also say thank you.)"

"Bago ka umuwi galing eskuwela, lapitan mo ang guro mong piniling mamuhunan sa iyong kinabukasan kaysa unahin ang sariling ginhawa; sabihin mo, 'salamat po': (Before you go home from school, approach the teacher who chose to invest in your future instead of prioritizing her own welfare; say 'thank you'.)," Aquino also said.

"Now we understand why Aquino totally ignored our letter stating the OFWs' demands to act on them in his first year in office. It is quite outrageous that he has the guts to deride our contribution to the economy through billions of dollars in remittances and to treat us with disdain despite earning huge profits through the mandatory insurance, OWWA membership fees, OEC, employment agency fees, etc.," she said.

The group also criticized the part of the SoNA which stated: "Dati, nakapako sa pangingibang-bansa ang ambisyon ng mga Pilipino. Ngayon, may pagpipilian na siyang trabaho, at hangga't tinatapatan niya ng sipag at determinasyon ang kanyang pangangarap, tiyak na maaabot niya ito. (Before, our foremost ambition was to work in another country. Now, the Filipino can take his pick. As long as he pursues his dreams with determination and diligence, he can realize them.)"

"Obviously, Aquino is out of touch from the reality that more than 4,000 Filipinos are leaving the country every day to work abroad. Had he visited the POEA Ortigas office, he would see a sea of Filipinos enduring bureaucratic processes and mountains of fees just so a livelihood can be had by their families," Balladares said.

The group said that because of Aquino's "continued subservience to foreign interests through his private public partnership, conditional cash transfer, and other globalization policies that fail to provide jobs and livelihood to the people, poverty worsened in his first year resulting from regular oil price hikes, 200% tuition increases, rising cost of commodities, and inadequate social services."

"Aquino's hollow 'wang-wang' had served its purpose. It's time for him to act on our pressing issues and define the straight path to the provision of welfare and rights protection to OFWs," Balladares said.

Balladares said that the lack of mention of OFW concerns in the SoNA "is telling of the government's lack of attention to the situation of migrant Filipinos and their call for action."

----------------------------------------------------------

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

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PH Headline News Online

PHNO-OPINION: PHILSTAR: UNCOVERING THE TRUTH

PHNO-OPINION: TRIBUNE: P-NOY EMBRACING THE 'WANG-WANG' CULTURE

PHNO-OPINION: THE FREEMAN EDITORIAL: AQUINO SHOULD KEEP ALBAY GOV IN LINE

PHNO-OPINION: STANDARD TODAY: WRONG TREE

PHNO-BE: COURT OF APPEALS DISMISSED BANCO FILIPINO CASE VS BSP, MONETARY BOARD

PHNO-SB: SPECIAL SYMPHONY INSPIRES CHRISTIAN BAUTISTA

PHNO-SB: CORY, THE MUSICAL SLATED FOR AUGUST

PHNO-SB: CHERIE GIL HIRAP NA MAGSALITA

PHNO-SB: PINOY REALITY TV: BIGGEST LOSER ALAN VOTED OUT, NOW BACK IN CEBU

PHNO-P-NOY: SOLON TO NOY: DON'T MEDDLE W/ OMBUDSMAN'S JOB / HK OFWs INSULTED BY SONA

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