People and Their Presence

Nobody wants to be lonely

2010-03-30T01:56:00.000-07:00

For the man of the street, menudo could really mean a mixed dish with potatoes, meat and some veggies. Menudo isn’t exactly one of my favorite dishes, unless it was the last ulam I could buy at the “jolly jeep” across the street. But I do remember that I used to listen to a Latin American boy band called Menudo. Yup, that band that visited Manila during the 80s. And I remember, Ricky Martin eliciting shrieks and shouts from fan around Manila.

Born December 24, 1971, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, his parents divorced when he was two but he grew up in a Catholic home and even became altar boy until he joined Menudo.

Today, those fans will probably accept the fact that Ricky Martin has finally come “out of the closet.” In an announcement posted at his website last 29 March 2010, he said, “I Am a Fortunate Homosexual Man.” His statement also read. “These years in silence and reflection made me stronger and reminded me that acceptance has to come from within and that this kind of truth gives me the power to conquer emotions I didn't even know existed."

Martin also says, “The word "happiness" takes on a new meaning for me as of today. It has been a very intense process. Every word that I write in this letter is born out of love, acceptance, detachment and real contentment. Writing this is a solid step towards my inner peace and vital part of my evolution." Martin has twin sons who probably inspired these words and the source of his happiness. The babies were delivered via gestational surrogacy.

It may have come as a surprise to some fans who danced and sung to the tune of “La Vida Loca.” Others simply shrugged off that “news” as they had long suspected that Martin was gay. Me? His sexual orientation didn’t really matter. What mattered most were his songs and his moves.

His "Livin' la Vida Loca" (composed by Desmond Child and Draco Rosa) which means “Living the Crazy Life” reached number one spot in 60 countries. It continues to be a popular request in karaoke bars around the country. The song also became the battle-cry of1998 FIFA World Cup. Martin performed it at the 1999 Grammy Awards show.

And we all smiled when Antonio Banderas and Eddie Murphy sung it in “Shrek 2.”

The song is generally seen as the song that sparked the Latin pop frenzy of 1999 with artists like Latin artists Marc Anthony, Jennifer Lopez, and Enrique Iglesias penetrating the Western pop music market.

But more than being a popular song, "Livin' la Vida Loca" is also a tech breakthrough. It was the first No. 1 song to be recorded, edited, and mixed totally on a DAW (digital audio workstation). Audio-production enthusiasts see it as the song that “marked the shift from analog recording to digital recording.”

Martin also did a duet with Christina Aguilera called "Nobody Wants to Be Lonely". And with Martin finally coming out of the closet, he just reiterates the fact that nobody wants to be lonely.

A Champion's Presence

2009-11-14T15:22:00.001-08:00

There is so much buzz about Sunday’s fight. Or Saturday night, if you are around North America. The second both Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto step into the ring at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. the world will come to a stop.

The buzz is being made louder by HBO. In the Philippines, the crime rate comes to zero as everyone is off the street and into their homes cheering on the “pambansang kamao.”

For us who are attending the 12th edition of “Synergy” here at the beautiful Misibis Bay Resort, the fight will surely be missed as we would be on our Cebu Pacific return flight to Manila. But we are sure the buzz will be around Legaspi City and even in the airport, where there will surely be TV monitors.

Experts predict that the fight will attract around 1 million pay view hits. The all-time record is 2.4 million for Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Oscar De La Hoya two years ago. Mayweather could be Pacquaio’s next victim as he is likely to win his seventh boxing title.

At 49-3-3, Pacquiao hasn't lost since 2005. He recently ended the careers of De La Hoya and Ricky Hatton. Oddmakers say that Pacquiao is a 3-1 favorite. Even US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton told Thomasian students that “no doubt Pacquiao would win.” Photo by of Welterweight boxing champion Manny Pacquiao and WBO champion Miguel Cotto during the official weigh-in by Gabriel Bouys / AFP / Getty Images.

I hope his presence on the ring will make Filipinos all over the world proud!

Goodluck Manny!

Efren Penaflorida makes a difference

2009-10-09T17:13:00.000-07:00

Another Filipino makes us proud.

Efren Penaflorida made it to the top ten for CNN’s “Hero of the Year” Award. The winner gets US$100,000 top prize money! Efren was among the thousands of nominees. Yup, thousands from across the globe.

Efren’s growing recognition and respect has been brought about by the mobile school program. Here, our 28-year old Filipino and his “Dynamic Teen” goes to the rural areas to help improve the lives of kids through education. For nearly 12 years, he and his team has made their presence felt in the lives of nearly 1,500 young kids who have learned how to read and write, and appreciate numbers.

According to an interview published in the online-edition of the Asian Journal, Efren says, "We should all start the change from within. All of us, we should open our minds and hearts to accommodate to the needs of the less fortunate and release the hero within.” While Efren considers it a great honor to be regarded as a modern-day hero, he believes that no one is too ordinary to be heroes. “We are all capable of contributing to our community and to our country."

Efren has already been featured in the “Ako Mismo” advocacy campaign together with respected Filipinos like Ely Buendia and Charice Pempengco.

He needs our help. Let us vote for him, by simply following this CNN link.

The CNN Hero of the Year will be announced and awarded soon in a program at the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles. Last day of voting is on November 19, 2009!

He has been on the streets helping many young, impoverished kids learn. Now, it’s our turn to help him so he could help more kids. Can you imagine how much books and learning materials US$100,000 can bring to Filipino kids?

We all can make a difference in the lives of others and we can help make that difference by voting for Efren Penaflorida and his mobile school program.

Students for Typhoon Ondoy

2009-09-30T20:32:00.000-07:00

The response of the government for Typhoon Ondoy has been criticized. In a story published in the Inquirer website, Sen. Logarda says, “It’s plain incompetence of the leadership, and government was absent,” said Sen. Loren Legarda. There is a pending bill on “disaster risk management.” Senator Biazon has blamed the NDCC “for the slow passage of the bill in the House of Representatives.”

While there are many criticisms, the response of many Filipinos has been praised here and abroad. There are many continuing untold and unpublished stories around us. And these includes the hundreds of young students who fill campuses, å barangays halls and warehouses around the city where they are packing relief goods for the typhoon victims.

Schools like UST, La Salle, UP and Ateneo have pulled in their students and teachers into their campuses to pack relief goods. These volunteers have given up their holidays to provide hands which have touched the hearts of many.

Officers and staff members of the UST Central Student Council have brought in concerned students for the packing of relief goods, clothes and other items for the typhoon victims. This operation was called “Tara Tomasino, Tulong Tayo.” Maybe, UST can adopt 400 families who are victims of Typhoon Ondoy as part of its 400th year program?

Ateneo de Manila University also opened up its campus to volunteers and victims. Students who need help or know of people who need help and text the name, location, and contact number to (+6329088877166). The school is now an open shelter and accepts refugees. Call (+632917-8952792)

There is an Ateneo DREAM Team established in Sept 2006 to coordinate the efforts of various units within the school toward the relief and rehabilitation of disaster victims. DREAM stands for Disaster Response and Management Team. The Dream Team runs Ateneo Task Force Ondoy, in partnership with the Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan.

De La Salle University-Manila is accepting donations and goods. Drop off at the South Gate of DLSU-Manila. DLSU Medical Center is also accepting canned goods, blankets, clothes and water. Drop-off point is at Congressional Avenue, Dasmarinas, Cavite. You can (02) 844-7832 and (046) 416-4531

UP Diliman USC is collecting food, clothing and/or cash. Contact Titus 09178001909, Jose 09273056607 and Tin 09154906106. UP College of Arts and Letters (CAL) is accepting goods and cash. Donation center at CAL/text 0929-6454102

Assumption College is now accepting donations. These can be dropped off at the AC guardhouse inside San Lorenzo Village. St. Pedro Poveda College is accepting relief goods. You can call the Social Action Center 6318756 loc. 121.

All these students continuing presence in the flooded streets and inside their own campuses have made the country proud!

Disaster Preparedness

2009-09-29T20:41:00.000-07:00

Nearly one week after Typhoon Ondoy brought havoc and tradegy into thousands of families in and around Metro Manila, specially, in Pasig, Marikina and Cainta, there are still many Filipinos within our midst and own communities who need are help. Photos credits to Reuters.

I got this list below from Lisa Bruan, via a forwarded email. You can see many ways and means on how we can help.

1. Victory Fort is opening its doors to those affected by the typhoon. Call 813-FORT.

2. NoyMar relief Operations: Clare Amador (+639285205508) or Jana Vicente at +639285205499). Drop off for relief donations is at Balay Expo Center across Farmers Market Cubao.

3. Miriam Quiambao drop off points: One Orchard Road Building in Eastwood, or message http://www.twitter.com/miriamq for more details.

4. Philippine Army Gym inside Fort Bonifacio or GHQ Gym in Camp Aguinaldo are now distributing donations for Ondoy Victims.

5. Team Manila stores in Trinoma, Mall of Asia, Jupiter Bel-Air and Rockwell shall be accepting relief goods (Canned Goods, Ready-to-drink Milk,Bottled Water and Clothes) for distribution by Veritas.

6. Caritas Manila Office at Jesus St., Pandacan Manila near Nagtahan Bridge (+632-5639298, +632-5639308)

7. Radio Veritas at Veritas Tower West Ave. Cor EDSA (+632-9257931-40)

8. Aranaz Stores in Rockwell & Greenbelt is accepting donations of any kind for Payatas communities affected by Ondoy

9. Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan Task Force Noah, a disaster response arm of the Jesuits, is accepting donations. Please drop it off sa Ateneo Cervini Dorm.

10. Red Cross Load Donations: Right now the easiest way to make donations from the seat of your chair is via mobile phone load. The Red Cross Rescue and Relief Operations. Text: REDAMOUNT to 2899 (Globe) or 4483 (Smart)

11. Ateneo de Manila University is now accepting donations for the victims of Ondoy. Donations can be dropped at MVP Lobby. For those stranded/those who need help: To all students who need help or know of people who need help. Please text the name, location, and contact number to (+6329088877166). ATENEO, which is now an open shelter, accepts refugees. Call (+632917-8952792)

12. Papemelroti stores in 91 Roces Ave. / Ali Mall Cubao / SM City North EDSA / SM Fairview / SM Megamall / Glorietta 3 in Makati / SM Centerpoint / SM Southmall are accepting relief goods (canned goods / milk / bottled water / clothes – NO CASH pls.)

13. Our Lady of Pentecost Parish (+632-4342397, +632-9290665) per Gabe Mercado, donations are very much welcome. The Parish is located at 12 F. Dela Rosa corner C. Salvador Sts., Loyola Heights, Quezon City.

14. Hillsborough Village Chapel – Water, blankets, shoes, and clothes may be sent to Hillsborough Village Chapel in Muntinlupa City. These will go to families whose houses were washed out in the nearby sitios.

15. Greenhills/Mandaluyong/San Juan Area, if you want to help out with the rescue and relief operations, you can drop off your donations (clothes, food, etc..) at La Salle Greenhills Gate 2 tomorrow or volunteer from 9am to receive, sort, repack the donations.

16. “LUZON RELIEF: Volunteer / Donate / Pray”: Donations can be brought to RENAISSANCE FITNESS CENTER, 2nd Floor, Bramante Building, Renaissance Towers Ortigas, Meralco Avenue, Pasig City starting MONDAY (Sept.28) / 9am – 7pm Contact Person: Warren Habaluyas (+632929-8713488) or email at luzonrelief@gmail.com

17. Katipunan Avenue. Contact Erica Paredes at (+632917-4741930) — they need bread, packed juice, sandwich filling (tuna, chicken, anything) You can help her make them, deliver the sandwiches to her house, or help her distribute! Call for more details.

18. Citizens Disaster Response Center (CDRC): Relief goods for typhoon victims being accepted at 72-A Times St., West Triangle, QC. Tel (+632-9299820/22)

19. Tulong Bayan hotlines for donations and volunteers are (+632908-6579998) Marilyn, (+632939-3633436) Jenn (+632-9137122, +632-9136254 & +632-9133306).

20. AKBAYAN’s taking donations, call 433-69-33/433-68-31 to donate or volunteer.

21. Worldvision Foundation is also accepting donations/volunteers to pack relief goods in QC. For $donations, BPI:USDacct #4254-0050-08

22. Xavier School in San Juan is now accepting donations, please bring to Multipurpose Center (MPC).

23. Move for Chiz is asking for volunteers at Bay Park Tent, along Roxas Blvd., beside Max Restaurant and Diamond Hotel in Manila, or at Gilas Minipark at Unang Hakbang St., Gilas Q.C.

24. Sen. Kiko Pangilinan is accepting donations @ AGS Bldg Annex, 446 EDSA Guadalupe Viejo. Contact Vina Vargas at (+632917-8081247)

25. Operation Rainbow (Zac Faelnar Camara) at Ayala Alabang Village needs Canned Goods, Ready-To-Eat Food, Bottled Water, Ready-To-Drink Milk/ Juice, Clothing, Blankets, contact (+632-4687991)

Please call given contact details and find out how you can help and make your presence felt to thousands of families who need our help and prayers too!

No matter how big or small, every amount of sweat or little piece of used clothes or blanket would bring warmth to many hearts.

Presidential Presence on Letterman

2009-09-23T05:38:00.000-07:00

A couple of daya ago, David Letterman pulled off a "casting coup" on late night television when we had President Barack Obama and former President Bill Clinton on his show, consecutively...one night after another.

Competition on late night TV became tighter as Jay Leno moved into primetime and Conan took over his slot at NBC. Often, Letterman would joke that even his mom watched Conan, but would definitely have watched the Obama episode.

Letterman is one of the longest running late night TV host, since Johnny Carson passed away a few years ago. It was reported that Carson had always wished Letterman take over his show and not Jay Leno. And at 62, he is one of the oldest too and nearly as old as Clinton, who turned 63 last August 19. He is a LEO like me. Hmmmmm.

You can check out this link to watch part of the interview.

Kim Clijsters as a winning mom

2009-09-15T01:18:00.000-07:00

She is the first mom to win a major title since Evonne Goolagong Cawley in 1980 at Wimbledon and Margaret Court in 1973.

Yup, at 26, Kim Clijsters achieved it a couple of days ago, with her win over Carolina Wozniacki in New York. The final score was 7-5, 6-3. And Chief and I saw the final minutes of the game as we were in the waiting room of the Heart Station, Makati Medical Center. She was scheduled for a thread mill test that Monday morning.

With her win, she pushed her up the WTA rankings. Now, she is 19th after 2 ½ years of retirement. And she had only played two tournaments after coming out of retirement.

"Little things like that are very special, because you never know how many more of those years you're going to have," Clijsters said.

She gave up the professional circuit a couple of years ago to focus on her family in Belgium. Any active professional player would know that toll that 4 Grand Slam Tournament takes, and not to mention the little tournaments in-between.

She is going home to be with her 18-month-old daughter Jada and husband Brian Lynch. "Obviously in Belgium things are going to be a lot more hectic now again for me when I get back home," Clijsters said a day after winning her second Grand Slam title. "I just want to make sure it doesn't influence Jada too much, that she still has that normal life."

Kim cites the important need to be happy and her presence at home and with her baby is a top priority. "First you need to be happy," Clijsters said. "As a mother now, everything around me needs to be happy before I can go out there and play good tennis and be relaxed on the court. … If all those things fall into place, then the results will follow automatically.

New reports say that the night before the final, Clijsters wasn't watching videotape of Wozniacki. She was watching "Ice Age" with Jada.

Her presence at home serves as an inspiration to many moms, not only tennis moms!

Remembering Lolo Perico and "Tatang"

2009-09-13T07:16:00.000-07:00

Today is grandparent’s day! A friend in Facebook reminded me of today’s milestone. Also in Mass earlier at St. John Bosco Church, the priest reminded the parishioners it was “Grandparent’s Day.”

I remember that I spent a few years with my Lolo Perico in his old house in 926 Maria Christina Street, Sampaloc. He used to teach me Spanish and going through his older years, I was taking care of him, even before the word “care-giving” became a buzz word. I would give him a bath, using Palmolive soap, which my Tita Betty would buy for everyone at home. He liked to listen to classical music over DZFE and would notice if I changed the radio to another radio station. We used to watch “Kuwentong Kutsero” aired in the old Channel 7. That show was a popular satire on local politics.

And it was also because of my Lolo Perico that I took my first plane ride. Yup, I was in high school, when we both went to Daet, Camarines Norte. I think I was 13 or 14 years old.

From my mom’s side, I remember Lolo Teroy, more fondly called “Tatang.” We would go and visit him in Angeles City, during Christmas time and town fiestas. He lived alone in his house, but within the Garcia lot in Angeles City. Every Christmas, all of us cousins would fall in line and he would hand out crisp five or ten peso bills. The older cousins would fall in line twice or thrice, thinking that he would not remember.

Wherever both are right now, am grateful for your presence in our lives.

Happy Grandparent’s Day!

Noynoy Aquino's Presence in the presidential race

2009-09-09T03:08:00.000-07:00

Today is supposed to be a lucky day. Three 9s.

Senator Noynoy Aquino would surely need more than luck as he announced his intention to seek higher office! I was expecting that he would join the presidential race, as he had vowed to continue the work of his parents!
"I will be there because of the people, I will stay there because of the people and hopefully I will be true to my word to serve the people," says Aquino.

He made his announcement at Club Filipino. This is the same place where history witnessed Tita Cory be sworn in as president after the 1986 EDSA Revolution. I wouldn’t say the late president led the revolution as it was the the thousands in the streets of EDSA during those four days in February who risked life against Ferdinand Marcos.

The young senator, who is one year older than me, will run under the opposition Liberal Party which has been a fierce critic of the present government.

He says, "I want to make democracy work not just for the rich and the well-connected, but for everybody."
Now, will Noynoy’s presence in the political arena be strong enough to bring Filipinos out of their homes and into the public arena? Whether it be in schools or in the streets, Filipinos, specially, the youth need to get involved and make their own presence felt to support the right candidate who will lead by example with good governance! Photos taken with my Canon "Rebel" DSLR during the anti-Con Ass rally held in Makati City last June 2009.

Good luck Noynoy!

Kennedy's presence

2009-08-30T20:00:00.000-07:00

A few days ago, the world lost the physical presence of last of the famous Kennedy brothers. Senator Edward M. Kennedy passed away at the age of 77. He died of brain cancer. He had served 46 years as a Democrat in the Senate.

His other brothers, President John F. Kennedy and Senator Robert F. Kennedy were assassinated in the 60s. Both were young. Only in their 40s. Their eldest brother, Joseph P. Kennedy Jr., died at the age of 29 during World War II while on a bombing mission. Photo of the famous three brothers (July 1960) by Associated Press

Senator Kennedy of Massachusetts could have been president, following his famous brother, John F. Kennedy. But along his political and personal life, he had a couple of stumbles, specifically the Chappaquiddick accident which resulted to the death of Mary Jo Kopechne.

And we would all surely remember the death of John F. Kennedy Jr. during a plane crash in 1999. Many had hoped he would follow JFK’s footsteps in the White House and keep the Kennedy tradition alive. See the young Ted on his father's lap in this photo from the New York Times.

President Obama said, “His ideas and ideals are stamped on scores of laws and reflected in millions of lives — in seniors who know new dignity, in families that know new opportunity, in children who know education’s promise, and in all who can pursue their dream in an America that is more equal and more just — including myself.” Wonder what Pres. Obama is whispering to the late Senator's ear in this photo by Brendan Smialowski (NYT).

Still, this tradition will continue to live with the Kennedy Library in Boston, the Kennedy Center in Washington and the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.

Last December, in Harvard University, he said, “We know the future will outlast all of us, but I believe that all of us will live on in the future we make. I have lived a blessed time.”

The Kennedy spirit will continue to shine in US politics as long as there are Democrats and Republicans who argue and debate in the halls of Congress. Am no expert in American politics but am sure many will miss the fire and vigor of Sen. Kennedy in the US Congress. Photo by George Tames in the late 60s, shows the young Ted talking to his supporters on top of a van.

Many Filipinos here are also Kennedy followers. They are not only mesmerized by the “royal family” of US politics, but firm believers of the democratic process and good governance. Associated Press photo shows the Kennedy family after the death of JFK.

Come May 2010, we do need to make our own presence felt as we select leaders who live and practice the ideals of good governance, just like the Kennedys. There is still time to seek change. Let us trash all traditional politicians and support those whose ideals are for the greater good of Filipinos.

Esther Ku is cute!

2009-08-25T18:01:00.000-07:00

Since the Yahoo media event last December 2008 at Spicy Fingers, Greenbelt 3, I had been exposed to local stand-up comedians. Today, I am even working with a couple of young comedians, Stanley Chi and Mike Unson.

I have seen both Stanley and Mike make their presence felt on stage a few times at Spicy Fingers. And even swapped jokes and lines as part of the writing team of “Front Act,” the newest comedy show on ABC5, aired every Sunday evening at 6pm. Just before "Wow Mali."

Chief and I would appreciate and laugh at the lines thrown by David Letterman, Jay Leno, Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert. All men. Have not seen, watched or heard a female stand-up comic until I got to watch Esther Ku on Star World a couple of weekends ago.

Who is Esther Ku? Well she is definitely one of the cutest comedians on stage. A Korean-American, she is known for her Asian jokes, which some find racist or offensive.

I first watched her presence at Star World’s “Last Comic Standing” last Saturday, August and I quickly “googled” her name. I read that she had been chosen as one of the ten best comedians for the 2006 NBC Stand-up for Diversity Showcase in New York City and had performed at the Boston International Comedy Festival and the New York Underground Festival.
During an interview, Esther was asked about her comic influences. She said, “My comic influences are the people around me who make me laugh: my mom, my siblings, my teachers, my pastor, etc. My mom has always poked fun at my dad in public, telling all her friends how he used to have hair before we were born. My siblings and I shared everything growing up. We teased each other constantly and incorporated wordplay to outwit each other. I always enjoyed it when my teachers incorporated a sense of humor in class. Whenever the teacher said something funny, I wrote it down in the margins of my notebooks.”

Now am thinking, does someone in my classes also take down my jokes?

Esther says that her most embarrassing moment was back in kindergarden when she decided to pee while in class. She admits, “I learned that day in school that farts are invisible but pee is not! I have not yet fully recovered from that day. I do occasionally release farts in public but never my bladder.”

In today’s tough economy, we could surely use a few laughs from stand-up comedians who dare make their presence felt before a live discriminating audience.
Whether Esther Ku farts or pees in public, her cute presence still stands above the rest of female stand-up comedians. You can check out her website at http://www.funnyku.com/

Stanley Chi, I think she can be number 55?

Thomasians For Cory

2009-08-07T00:31:00.000-07:00

Around 5pm, Tuesday afternoon, I had moved to the front of the Palacio del Gobernador. A couple of hundred students had slowly started to gather here. Many of them were wearing yellow. A few wearing their uniforms. Some wore shirts with “glowing tigers” mascot. Their lynards said it all. Glowing Tigers. Faculty of Civil Law. College of Fine Arts and Design. Education. Arts and Letters. Physical Therapy. Clearly, these students were Thomasians.

I had learned that Thomasians had been called to attend the Tuesday 9pm Mass at the Manila Cathedral. There was some commotion, specially, as the rain poured. But that didn’t dampen the spirit of the students. Most, if not all of them, had not been born during the assassination of Ninoy Aquino back in 1983 or EDSA Revolution in February 1986. This was probably their first and closest experience to a “people power” type of gathering.

Now, I feel old as I had lived through those times and been a part of EDSA Revolution. Yup, I was on top of the gate Camp Crame when Enrile and Ramos crossed from Camp Aguinaldo to Camp Crame. I snapped hundreds of photos during those days. Now, I just need to post them in Facebook or Blogger. But need to digitized them first.

I could sense that these Thomasians wanted to be part of history as cameras were snapping and clicking, using the Manila Cathedral as their background. Many proudly raised the “Laban” sign. I saw a couple of priests. The elder one even lent his umbrella to me and a middle-aged lady.

I wish and pray that behind all these “Kodak” moments, students, regardless of affiliation or course, channel all their youthful unadulterated values into specific action that will lead to change. It starts with their registration as voters, choosing and even campaigning for the right candidates, protecting their ballots and staying vigilant as the winning candidates take office.

The challenge of Ninoy’s death in 1983 and EDSA Revolution remains the same today. Food on the table for majority of the poor. Less of corruption, more of basic services. Simply, just honesty and integrity in government.

Words for President Aquino

2009-08-06T01:49:00.000-07:00

It was a Tuesday afternoon when I made my own presence felt, among the thousands who gathered for the wake of the late President Corazon Aquino. I had left our Greenhome around lunchtime and just wanted to grab a quick lunch at the Jollibee outlet near Convergys, but the place was full. “Forget it,” I said to myself.

It was a slow bus ride to Manila. The rains made it more complicated. “I should have taken a taxi.” But I was in “tipid-mode.” Plus, I wanted to feel the community around me during these times of bereavement.

I was not able to enter the Cathedral itself. But I really opted not to queue as I just wanted to capture the emotion outside the Cathedral. It was by accident (or by fate?) that I strayed into the parking lot near the Manila Cathedral, 3pm, Tuesday afternoon.

Not known to many Filipinos near the Cathedral, there was a parking lot. Here, cars of relatives and friends found parking. Flowers were found there way near the gate. But most of all, hundreds of Filipinos wrote their thoughts to pay their respects to the late President Corazon Aquino.

In this parking lot, there was three large-format print out of Cory’s images. Besides these larger than life images, where white tarpaulins where Filipino can write their messages for their hero.

Here are some of the messages that expressed how Filipinos feel about the late president and what she had achieved for the country and Filipinos.

A couple of young volunteers, wearing black T-shirts and jeans, warned a few who tried to find space inside the actual image of President Aquino. Earlier, a few wrote on the face of the late president. How could they do that?
What would my own message be for the late president?

Words can't fully express how the presence and governance of President Aquino has influenced the lives and history of the Philippines. She is both an icon of democracy and an inspiration to Filipinos to pursue the greater good for our country. The challenge today is how to translate these outpouring of love and respect for the late president into specific action that results to change and fulfillment of the dreams that remains to be realized 23 years after the EDSA Revolution.

Wanted: Angelina Jolie

2009-08-03T19:10:00.000-07:00

Last night was a quiet Sunday evening and I was flipping around the cable network, just awaiting for “Boston Legal” at 10pm at Star World. And then, Chief said, “Oh… your favorite.” Yup, it was Angelina Jolie on HBO. The movie was a 2008 action film called “Wanted” which was based on a comic book series by Mark Millar.

The movie was 20 minutes into its running time, but still I kept my fingers off the remote control. Chief also managed to switch between the Harry Potter book (Chamber of Secrets) she was reading and the action scenes between Angelina Jolie and James McAvoy. Who is he anyway? Did you know that McAvoy once considered on becoming a priest.

The movie was directed by Timur Bekmambetov and also stars Morgan Freeman, whom I remember best as Ned Logan in “Unforgiven,” the award-winning 1992 Western film directed by Clint Eastwood and in “Million Dollar Baby” where he won Best Supporting Actor in 2004

Here, Freeman plays the role of Sloan, the leader of the Fraternity. Fraternity? Well, that is group of assassins which recruits Wesley Gibson, who is the son of a professional assassin. The names of targets are revealed through a binary code hidden in weaving errors of the fabric.

The movie was released last June 25, 2008. We did fail to catch this movie in Greenbelt Cinemas last year.

Guess, what is “amazing” in this movie is the way the characters are able to control the spin and curve of bullets even when they shoot from a far distance. Or from a fast-moving train.

My favorite, Angelina Jolie, as Fox trains Gibson which gives him superhuman strength, extra speed and reflexes. His training is brutal and bloody.

The highlight of the movie is the shoot-out inside the train. Fox even crashes a car into the train. Cross saves Wesley’s life by preventing him from falling into the ravine. But Wesley shoots his father. Yup, Cross is his father which Fox confirms who is also out to kill Gibson. Now, who is killing who anyway? Gibson escapes by shooting out the glass underneath him and plunging into the river below. He now plans to eliminate Sloan and the Fraternity. How? By an army of rats carrying small bombs.

Director Timur Bekmambetov had announced last June that there would be a sequel. Would Jolie make her presence in the sequel and come back to life? Note that Fox dies at the end of the movie. Photos and movie poster from Universal Pictures.

Crisis in Tehran

2009-06-21T18:12:00.000-07:00

In 1989, around 20 years ago, hundreds of thousands of young students and workers gathered in Tianamen Square. Nobody would really know how many got killed or hurt in the Tianamen Massacre. Thousands probably?

These days Iranians are making their presence felt in the streets of Tehran. Reports say that police have fired tear gas and water cannon to the protestors who are openly defying the government. Witnesses claimed some marchers were beaten with batons or metal pipes and heard protesters also shout "Death to Khamenei!" Photo by REUTERS/Farhad Rajabali.

Tehran University was also cordoned off by police. It is the oldest and largest university in Tehran. But not as old as my alma mater, the University of Santo Tomas. It was officially opened in 1934.

This is the most serious presence in the streets of Tehran, specially, around the Revolution Square, since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Tehran is the largest city in the Middle East with a population around 7 million. The city dates back 6000BC and has rich historical and religious sites of mosques, churches and synagogues.

The Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had already warned of a bloodshed. Tehran Province Police Chief Ahmad Reza Radan had said, "Police forces will crack down on any gathering or protest rally which are being planned by some people."

Reports say that the streets also are marked by the presence of police and plainclothes security personnel, plus fire trucks. Supporters of opposition leader Mir Hossein Mousavi have continued to increase their presence, calling for the government cancel the results of the recent June 12 elections which declared victory for President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Photo by REUTERS/Farhad Rajabali.

Opposition leader Mousavi , who served was prime minister during the 1980s, says he won. But many feel he is after the collapse of the Islamic system? A statement on his website says “He and his supporters were not seeking to confront their "brothers" among Iran's security forces or the "sacred system" that preserves the country's freedom and independence. Photo shows Mousavi speaking before a crowd. Courtesy of AP.

President Barack Obama has also urged Iranian leaders to halt "all violent and unjust actions against its own people." “The United States stands by all who seek to exercise" the universal rights to assembly and free speech,” says Obama. Please note there is little news coverage coming out of Tehran and protestors are using technology and Internet sites like Tweeter to get news out of the country.

Let us hope and pray that what is happening in Tehran doesn’t end up like Tianamen. People’s right to a peaceful assembly and free speech is an inherent right for all human beings, irregardless of country or culture.

Will this presence in the streets of Tehran lead to people power?

Lakers Celebrate

2009-06-18T04:16:00.000-07:00

Watching the last minutes of Game 5, between the Los Angeles Lakers and Orlando Magic, fans in Los Angeles had already started celebrations. Many cheered in their homes as the Lakers celebrated in Amway Arena. My dad had teased me, through Chief, for a blowout! And I teased my friend, Neal Tieng, knowing he is a Celtics fan.

Finally, Kobe emerged from the shadows of Shaq and Coach Phil Jackson earned his 10th ring.

There were news that amidst the recession and tough times, there would be no victory parade for the Lakers. A six-figure budget was expected to spent on such a parade. But finally, the city and the Laker organization shared financial resources to celebrate the championship.

An estimated 150,000, many in purple and golf, made their presence felt along the parade that started at the Staples Center, down Figueroa Street and ended at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Photo by Mark Boster.

The Laker Girls made their presence in the packed Coliseum. Maybe, one day, I will watch a Lakers Game at Staples Stadium.

Kobe Bryant said, "We feel this championship. We feel the energy of the city. We want to do this thing again and again. So you know we'll be back next year ready to go." Photo by Mark Boster of the LA Times. Am sure many fans saw Kobe share the championship trophy with his wife and two kids on TV after Game 5 at the Amway Arena.

Did you know that the hardwood floor from Staples Center had been disassembled and then, reassembled inside the Coliseum.

"We've got an amazing young group of people here," player Pau Gasol told the crowd. "We're still hungry. We're not done yet. We want more. We want more. . . . After experiencing what we experienced in the parade coming here and being in this beautiful stadium, we want to definitely offer you more. So be ready for it." They definitely would not have won without Gasol! Photo by Mark Boster.

The celebrations was generally peaceful except for a few guys whose presence caught the attention of CHiPs along the 101 Freeway. Suddenly, I remember Larry Wilcox and Erik Estrada.

In my own way, I was celebrating, proudly wearing my old blue “take it to the hoop” Laker T-shirt.

Media Presence at Con-ass

2009-06-14T20:49:00.000-07:00

Not only where the religious, students and professionals present at the recent rally against the constituent assembly, but media also made their presence felt.

Here are a few pictures of media as they pursued their responsibility to report the truth about the Filipino presence in the “parliament of the streets.”

Photo shows photographers taking a good view of the crowd from one of Makati's high rise buildings. Wish I was up there to capture a panaromic view of the rallyists the corner of Paseo de Roxas and Ayala Avenue.

Other photographers are high on this make-shift photographer's platform. But I couldn't get up here as I came in late for this rally. I do remember covering Ninoy Aquino's burial and I riding a long flatbed truck that followed the main truck carrying Aquino's casket.

Firefighters' Presence at Campos Rueda fire

2009-06-13T01:22:00.000-07:00

On our way home last 09 June 2009, coming from Manila, where we had secured our NBI clearances for adoption, we got caught into some traffic along Buendia Avenue.

Why? There was a fire at the Campus Rueda Bldg, along Urban Avenue. This is walking distance from the Makati Medical Center or just behind the Tropical Hut Hamburger Restaurant, front the Makati Post Office.

The earliest firemen dates back to at least Ancient Egypt. During the times of the Romans, firefighters were privately organized and funded groups. They were really more a business than a public service, until Julius Caesar Augustus called for the creation of trained firefighters. He equipped and paid these men. They also were the early police force. Augustus was the first emperor of the Roman Empire. He ruled alone from 27 BC until his death in AD 14. Here is an 1878 illustration of early firefighters.

Wished I had my Canon Rebel XTI with me? Still, I snapped a few pictures with my iPhone. Other pictures were taken by Chief as I still had my hands on Shaq.

I remember this building much from my old Manila Bulletin days, when I was assigned at the Makati Peninsula Branch. We had a couple of advertisers held office at Campos Rueda. Wow, that was back in the early 80s and there was still the Rizal Theatre, where the Makati Shangrila now stands.

The Campos Rueda is relatively an old building. It is probably made of flammable materials such as wood which is different from so called "fire-resistant" buildings we see in a modern metropolis. These "fire-resistant" buildings can be designed to limit fire to a small area or floor, thus giving occupants the time to evacuate the building.

It was quick presence of the firemen that prevented the fire from spreading to the other buildings. The firemen had to be on the spot easily as the Makati Fire Station was just across the street, at the back of the Makati Post Office.

The Makati Fire Department (MFD) has often won the search for Best Fire Station in the National Capital Region (NCR) and is recognized as a multi-awarded firefighter in the country today.

No way for any Constituent Assembly

2009-06-12T06:18:00.000-07:00

Constituent Assembly?

No way for all these Filipinos present at the corner of Ayala Avenue and Paseo de Roxas last June 10, 2009!

Yes, I snapped these pictures of Filipinos who oppose the House of Representatives being set as a constituent assembly. Many see the passage of HR 1109 convening a Constituent Assembly to amend the 1987 Constitution as a step for PGMA to become prime minister, thus extending her stay in Malacanang. All 23 senators signed a resolution expressing their opposition to a Senate-less Con-Ass. They claim it is unconstitutional.

Am sure even Senator Trillanes would have, if allowed, make his presence felt in these street protests. Groups like Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan), Kilusang Mayo Uno, Gabriela, Kabataan, Association of Major Religious Superiors in the Philippines, Pagbabago! movement and Artists Revolution are making their presence felt. They believe that HR 1109 was intended “to strengthen” President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s “hold on the reins of power."

A joint statement by the United Opposition, civil society and militant groups says, "We believe the resolution is intended to change the Charter in order to strengthen Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s hold on the reins of power either through term extension, a shift to parliamentary system or any other underhanded device.”

Even the religious made their presence felt in this last rally. “Hindi democratic ang ginagawa nila sapagkat sinosolo nila ang pagpapalit ng ating konstitusyon. Kahibangan na yan," said Jaro archbishop Angel Lagdameo. The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) is taking a stand. "What happened last night... it’s like they are betraying the people. When power corrupts, it corrupts absolutely," the CBCP president added.

Many of us, including media, have been through this road before. The parliament of the streets. From the days of EDSA 1, back in February 1986 to these days, when recession and swine flu share headlines in con-ass!

Mabuhay ang malayang Filipino!

Tiananmen Presence

2009-06-04T01:47:00.000-07:00

Where were you last June 4, 1989?

Late 80s, I was probably teaching at UST CFAD and working at the House of Representative. June 1989? Honestly, I can’t remember.
The Internet was at its infancy. And we hadn’t heard of YouTube or Google or Yahoo.

Everybody got their news from newspapers and CNN. And around those days from April to June 1989, young Chinese students, intellectuals and workers were making their strong presence felt at Tiananmen Square. Yes, it has been 20 years since the Tiananmen Square protests that led to the death persecution of many Chinese.

The demonstrations were fueled by the sudden death due to heart attack of Hu Yaobang, who was seen by the protestors as pro-democracy and anti-corruption official. Around the middle of April, civilians had gathered at Monument to the People's Heroes in the middle of the Tiananmen Square to mourn his death.

Students from Peking University and Tsinghua University also expressed their sorrow and sympathy for Hu Yaobang by posting eulogies inside the campus. 500 students from China University of Political Science and Law marched to the Great Hall of the People.

Their numbers increased as 3,000 students from Peking University and hundreds more from Tsinghua University joined the growing protestors. Their presence increased to 100,000 towards the eve of his funeral on April 22, 1989.

Days turned into weeks. Protests evolved into petitions, known as the “seven demands” which the students wanted to give to government officials. While no officials came out to meet with the protestors, some officials were sympathetic to the protestors. The numbers grew as news about the dispersal spread and People's Daily issued a front-page editorial that accused "extremely small segments of opportunists of plotting civil unrest.” This was far from the real presence in Tiananmen Square. There were also marches in the streets of Beijing demanding that government renounce the “official statement.”

While there was pushing and shoving as the police tried to clear access to government offices, the protest was generally peaceful until the tanks rolled into Tiananmen Square which resulted to the death and injuries of civilians. This is a famous photo by Jeff Widener of AP.

No one outside China believes the exact figure has ever been given by the Chinese government. Only 241 dead and 7,000 wounded, including government soldiers. Unidentified sources from the Chinese Red Cross gave a figure of 2,600 deaths.

There was a widespread crackdown of other protestors and their supporters. Media was suppressed (even today), as it has always been gagged.

Students and workers demanded a dialogue with government. Hundreds of students also went on hunger strikes. General Secretary Zhao Ziyang went to the Square on May 19 and made a speech urging the students to end the hunger strike. This was his last public appearance. The government declared martial law on May 20. Members of the Communist Party who were sympathetic to the students were purged, meaning stripped of their official duties and ties with the government. General Secretary Zhao Ziyang was placed under house arrest

Students from the Central Academy of Fine Arts had carved and erected "The Goddess of Democracy" at Tiananmen Square towards the end of May. This became a symbol for the protest and widely seen on TV around the world.

Protestors had hoped that “glasnost” policy by Mikhail Gorbachev would happen in China. They wanted economic, political and democratic reform. Very much like in the country during those years under Proclamation 1081.

Today, we remember and honor their presence that hoped to bring change in China.

Filipinos' presence at Cannes Film Festival

2009-05-25T04:16:00.000-07:00

News flash!

Brillante Mendoza is named Best Director at Cannes 2009 for his film, “Kinatay.” And take note, that he won over other respected directors like Ang Lee (Taking Woodstock) and Quentin Tarantino (Inglourious Basterds) and Ang Lee under the same category.

Mendoza is the first Filipino to win Best Director at Cannes for a full-length film. He made his debut at Cannes last year for his film “Serbis.”

This year is the 62nd edition of the world’s most famous film festival.

“Kinatay” is a story of a kidnap-rape victim, played by Maria Isabel Lopez. Like the title implies, Lopez is murdered and hacked to pieces.

The most prestigious Palme d'Or (Golden Palm Award) went to Austrian director Michael Haneke for Das Weisse Band (The White Ribbon) while the Grand Prix award was given to French filmmaker Jacques Audiard for Un Prophete (A Prophet). Twenty films competed for the highest honor at the festival.

Here is what Mendoza said after he received The Best Director Prize "First of all I would like to thank the selection committee, who are responsible for bringing my films here for the past three years. And now with an award for Best Director, I would like to thank the Jury. And of course I’d like to thank my producer; thank you for the trust and faith in my films. I’d like to thank also a very committed staff and crew. I’d like to share this award with my daughter, Angelica, who has always been my number one critic and to an actor I really respect, Coco Martin. Thank you all for embracing my kind of cinema."

Photo of Mendoza, his acceptance speech and 2009 Cannes Festival Poster from http://www.festival-cannes.com

There were two other full-length Filipino films in the Festival, namely, “Independencia” which was a historical drama starring Sid Lucero and Tetchie Agbayani and “Manila” which starred Piolo Pascual

Plus two short films. “Sabongero” directed by Filipino-American Janice Perez and the animated short “Manong Maong” directed by Aissa Peñafiel and Miguel Ocampo.

Definitely, making a strong Filipino presence at Cannes and around the globe!

Grand Slam presence in Wimbledon

2009-05-20T02:37:00.000-07:00

Actually, I was surprised to catch the presence of four of the best players of the world playing on Center Court at Wimbledon. I wondered. It was May. The French Open. I quickly called Chief to watch. And sent an sms to Jovy Mamawal.

And I asked myself, what was Steffi Graf, Andre Agassi, Tim Henman and Kim Clijtsers doing on Center Court in front of 15,000 spectators who paid £35 a head for tickets. I wasn’t sure which tournament this was until the commentator described this as a mixed double exhibition game for the inauguration of the new retractable roof of Wimbledon! Wow. A new multi-million-dollar retractable roof over Centre Court, the world’s premier tennis grand slam tournament!

We all have sat through delays and non-sense commentaries at Wimbledon because of the rains. This new roof will bring continuity to the matches! When it was used for this game, fans all tilted their heads back in unison as the 1000-tonne concertina structure over Centre Court started unfurling at eight inches a second. It actually just took a little over 7 minutes… and Center Court became an indoor arena, complete with a translucent roof and bright floodlights. However, two pigeons were trapped as the north and south sections of the roof locked together.

This game was played last May 17 and was billed as “A Centre Court Celebration.” Well, seeing Andrei kiss Steffi several times on center court is a celebration indeed. Chief and I can’t forget that marathon men’s final match between Agassi and Pete Sampras in 2002. We were still living and working in Saigon and stayed up all night to watch the game. It would be the last competitive game for Sampras and for me, the best tennis match I have seen.

Steffi Graf has not played in public since she retired from the game in August 1999. She has won 22 grand slam singles titles. She last played the mixed doubles with John McEnroe at Wimbledon in 1999.

Of course, I am assuming that she and Andrei play on their own tennis courts. Agassi used to be married to actress Brooke Shields. How many grand slam titles for the couple? 30! Yup, that much trophies at their home.

Andrei and Steffi got married in October 2001 and have a son, Jaden Gil. Yup, Gil. My nickname!

“It sure has lived up to the beauty that has existed here for a long time. It’s an exciting change, it’s an addition for the players and the fans,” Agassi said.

Wondering who won that exhibition match?

Celebrities At Staples Center

2009-05-16T14:03:00.000-07:00

The Lakers have been forced to a Game 7 by the Houston Rockets. And must agree with Coach Phil Jackson that the team has not been consistent. And even as determined and driven to win games as the Houston Rockets. Even without Yao Ming and T-Mac, the Rockets have given pride to their franchise which won a couple of championships in the 90s.

If the Lakers lose, their 65 wins during the regular season goes down the drain and would be proof that they aren’t really a championship-caliber team.

With Game 7, the Lakers hope turn their fortune around in front on their home crowd at the Staples Center and some of the world’s leading celebrities. Below are pictures from the LA Times showing the presence on these celebrities which add glamour and “showtime” to the Lakers. And hopefully, determination and drive to win Game 7 and meet the Denver Nuggets for the Western Conference Finals.

Kelsey Grammer made many of us smile for many nights in HCMC through "Cheers" and "Frazier." Now, we would surely smile wider if the Lakers win. Photo by Noel Vasquez from Getty Images.

Jack Nicholson is always on court-side. I remember him in "As Good As It Gets," where he fell in love with Helen Hunt. I did have an old crush on Helen Hunt. Did you know he has been nominated for 12 times in the Academy Awards? But he would probably wouldn't mind if the Lakers won Game 7.

Probably every music fan knows Ryan Seacrest from "American Idol." But I know him better as the new host of American Top 40 after he took over from Casey Kasem in January 2004. Now, only the number 16 counts in the playoffs! Photo by Noel Vasquez.

The “Beverly Hills Cop” is often seen at the Staples Center too. Eddie Murphy is as old as me as he was born in 1961. He has played multiple roles in a few movies and would hope that the Lakers play their role on court with more passion! Photo by Mark Tamil of AP.

One of our favorite movies with Leonardo di Caprio is “Blood Diamond” where he was nominated for an Academy Award in 2004 and “Catch me if you can” based on based on the life of Frank Abagnale Jr. Now, can the Lakers catch a win in Game 7? Photo by Mark Temil.

Another police officer often at the Staples Center is LL Cool J, who played Officer Deacon "Deke" Kaye in the 2003 version of “SWAT.” Now that movie I nearly memorized as that was the film screened in our SQ Flight to the US. I think we saw that movie 6 times! He also played Julian Washington in “Any Given Sunday.” Now, that our theme movie! Did you know that LL stands for Ladies Love? Photo by Chris Pizello of AP.

Still the biggest celebrity is wearing "24."

HIgh Crowd Presence

2009-05-15T22:35:00.000-07:00

It was really a hot Thursday afternoon here in Pulilan, Bulacan.

Earlier, there was some shade and rains in the morning as Jenna, Donald and I had breakfast at Jollibee. Conditions changed by lunch as the sun was bright and shining during the Carabao Festival which unfolded around 2pm.

A few free-lance photographers, hobbyists like me, members of Bulacan Letratista led by Echel Darcen and tourists were all waiting for the parade to start. The program host kept on instructing the marshals, the local police and barangay tanods to push back the crowd which had built up. But “matigas ang ulo.” There is definitely a better need for crowd control.

Everyone was eagerly awaiting the parade in honor its patron saint. San Isidro Labrador. Everyone wanted to see the carabaos decorated with garland and shaved for the occasion. Everyone wanted to see these hard0wkring animals kneel in front of the church. Photo shows crowd on top of a small tower, just besides the officials specially constructed view-deck.

After I had taken enough pictures of the parade and prior the “carabao gone wild,” I snapped the people presence of these local residents above the street-level, all braving the heat and eagerly watching the parade from their vantage points.

Photo shows nuns with a good vantage point from the corner house, just across the church and view-deck constructed for the parade officials, judges and selected guests.

Sorry, can't avoid some branding from Fuji Films. But at least, they were safe from the rampage of the carabao would let loose his rage later in the afternoon.

At least this roof-top didn't collapse with the heavy weight of these crowd.

Unang Hirit in Pulilan

2009-05-14T19:05:00.000-07:00

By 5am, I had reached the 5-Star bus terminal in Cubao, Quezon City.

It has been nearly ten years since I met up with Donald Tapan. I had first met him when I was with CITEM. Our creative team worked with several known photogs for our requirements. But this Thursday, I didn’t have a Job Order or Creative Brief for him. It was really just a simple out of town leisure photo coverage of a famous festival, the Carabao Festival.

I tried to catch some sleep during the bus ride, but the excitement kept me awake most of the strip. And "Die Another Day" was being screened in the bus with the bus ticket costing only 59 pesos!

By 7am, we were in Pullilan. Took a tricycle ride to the front of the Pulilan Church. We quickly saw the production team of “Unang Hirit” already preparing for the features. The cast and crew had made an early presence to feature live the Carabao Festival in their show.

Between "Umagang Kay Ganda" and "Unang Hirit," can you guess which one serves me the local news in the mornings?

Spock's Presence

2009-05-08T03:04:00.001-07:00

Just watched the new Star Trek film by J. J. Abrahms at the Cinema 1. And Al Roker was right to say that no a single frame was wasted in this film. He made this comment as he was exchanging words with Matt Lauer on the “Today Show” this morning. They had the original Mr. Spock as guest in that program… of course, I stayed on long enough to watch the interview.

Al Roker briefly talked to Leonard Nimoy about the new film. Nimoy said that he accepted to do the appearance after he had read the script. He probably found logic in the “return” after 129 years.

Yup, according to the film, Spock returned 129 years to the film’s presence. In the film, he is “trapped” in a icy, cold planet where the young Kirk (played by Chris Pine) is also “dispatched” by Spock (played by Zachary Quinto) after being accused of insubordination. At these times, both Spock and Kirk have not yet established the friendship that journeyed to strange new worlds and discovered new life forms.

In the film, the paths of Kirk and Dr. McCoy aka “Bones” (played by Karl Urban) is established and Spock and Kirk are at odds with each other. I was surprised to learn that Spock had become captain of the newly-built Enterprise after Captain Pike had “surrendered” to the Romulans?

Gene Roddenberry in 1964 described Spock as "probably half Martian, he has a slightly reddish complexion and semi-pointed ears.” Back in the 60s, NBC officials were reportedly "afraid" to a have an alien with pointed ears as it would scare away children. But Roddenberry prevailed.

Leonard Nimoy, who played the original Spock in the first TV series said that “he liked the character's newly logical nature, observing that the character is struggling to maintain a Vulcan attitude, a Vulcan philosophical posture and a Vulcan logic, opposing what was fighting him internally, which was human emotion." Trek historians say that if Nimou turned down the role of Spock, Roddenberry would have opted for Martin Landau. Remember, Space 1999?

I was surprised to learn of a romantic relationship between Uhura and Spock? Which will probably be the ultimate test for Spock’s emotion in the next movie.

Another surprise was to see Winona Ryder play the role of, Amanda Grayson, Spock's mother. Did she really fall and die when the planet exploded?

Today, Spock is one of the most famous and intriguing TV characters and his presence will continue to resonate across TV and cinema.

Live long and prosper!

Star Trek coming soon!

2009-05-05T03:08:00.000-07:00

In a few days, the long wait is over. Kirk and Spock in the latest Star Trek, directed by J. J. Abrams will make their presence felt in movie screens here in the Philippines. And I feel that this film would be a good “reboot” for the franchise created by Gene Roddenberry, who died in 1991. He was one of the earthlings to have his ashes “buried” in space.

The 11th film from the Star Trek franchise will feature the early years of the main characters of the original series. And that means Kirk and Spock and the rest of the first crew of the Enterprise.

The story follows James T. Kirk (Chris Pine) studying at Starfleet Academy and his first meeting with Spock (Zachary Quinto). Eric Bana plays a Romulan. Now, that would be interesting.

What I am eager to see is the redesigned bridge. The team brought in Star Trek veteran John Eaves.

The bridge retains it’s oval shape, railings, the captain's chair, and viewscreen but has been aesthetically altered with bright colors.

McCoy’s sickbay is reportedly more modern while the transporter and engine rooms have an industrial look. The beams in the transporter also swirl rather than speckle. I looked up what speckle means in my laptop dictionary? It refers to a small spot or mark, often a small irregular patch of contrasting color.

The Starfleet uniforms still follow the original color coding (command officers wear gold shirts, science and medical officers wear blue, and Operations (technicians/engineers) and security personnel wear red). However, the female officers' miniskirts are slightly longer than the original from the 60s.

Industrial Light & Magic created the visual effects. Abrams worked with visual effects supervisors Roger Guyette and Sherri Hanson, with whom he teamed up before in Mission: Impossible III.

Music is by Michael Giacchino who kept the original theme by Alexander Courage. This film was written by Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtzman, and produced by Damon Lindelof and Bryan Burk.

The characters and the stories have surely traveled long and far since the premiere of TV series back in September 8, 1966.

And will definitely go where no one has gone before!

More Pacquiao Punches

2009-05-04T01:55:00.000-07:00

Manny Pacquiao is called the best “pound for pound” boxer in the world.
And even sometimes, as the greatest fighter in the world? Maybe, for this year. Hmmm. Not yet, as there will always be Muhammad Ali!

Anyway, here are some of the best fight pictures taken by sports photographers at ringside and around the country to capture the raw emotion of victory and defeat.

Photo by Isaac Breken of Associated Press. That does hurt.

Another photo by Al Bello of AFP. Even the right hand can hurt.

I know one tabloid had for it's headline only one word. "Bagsak." And Even Robert Martinez, my batchmate from UST and former colleague from CITEM showed me a text message that says, "Hindi lahat ng natutulog nasa kama..." Definitely, in reference to this photo by Jae C. Hong from AP.

These are the hands that made Filipinos proud last Sunday! Photo credit to Gabriel Bouys of AFP / Getty Images.

Cheers to Manny Pacquiao! You made the country proud

Pacquiao Makes Filipinos Proud

2009-05-03T04:49:00.000-07:00

We had arrived at Ate Lelang’s place in Pagsanjan, Laguna coming from Lucban, Quezon where we had spent our Labor Day weekend. We had traveled around 200 kilometers since Friday morning, through the province of Batangas and Quezon.

It was just before noontime and we caught Martin Nievera singing the Philippine national anthem, “Lupang Hinirang.”

Already, we were all smiles as we would be able to watch the Battle between East and West. Manny Pacquaio vs. Ricky Hatton!

The fight was a light welterweight superfight for the International Boxing Organization (IBO) and The Ring light welterweight (super lightweight) championship.

Over one of the country’s most famous halo-halo, we all eagerly watched the fight and cheered at every hook and jab that landed in Hatton’s face. Like many around the world, we were surprised that Hatton went down twice in the first round. Am sure, many wanted this fight to stretch to twelve rounds, and that includes the advertisers to paid big bucks to Solar Sports and GMA Channel 7 for spots in the bout and who viewed the fight at the MGM Grand Las Vegas at Las Vegas, Nevada, United States.

Photo shows Nady, Issa, Wila, Aida, Rene and Cecile cheering Pacquiao as Hatton goes down for the second time in the first round.

The Filipino boxer was picked by Las Vegas bookmakers as the favorite prior to the fight. And today, Pacquiao is easily the favorite of even more boxing and sports fans around the world and his presence on the ring today further cemented his spot as the “pambansang kamao” and the best pound for pound boxer in the world!

Cheers to Manny Pacquiao! You made the country and whole of Asia proud!

Susan Boyle's dream

2009-04-18T02:22:00.000-07:00

Count Cecile and myself among the 24,958,387 who have viewed and listened to Susan Boyle's rendition of "I Dreamed a Dream" from Les Misérables. Susan was auditioning during the first round of competition for Britian's Got Talent.

Actually, I first caught her audition during last Friday's episode of "The Today Show" aired locally in Manila in Channel 19 (cable). And I would agree with the three judges and millions around the world that a star is born and Susan Boyle is now seeing her dream unfold before the world and blogosphere.

Now, here at Pancake House, along dela Rosa Street in Legazpi Village, I first introduced Chief to Susan Boyle and she was quickly glued to her video uploaded on YouTube and won her heart too!

We quickly recalled our first night in the East Coast (sometime December 2007), staying at Olwen Abergas' place along 84th Street, when he too first introduced Paul Potts to us. Olwen also showed us a short video in his mobile phone and played his music as we enjoyed dinner. Now, there are two artists who will conquer the hearts of many through their music.

Knowing Susan Boyle

2009-04-17T03:48:00.000-07:00

Millions around the world have heard her voice and seen her perform at Britain’s Got Talent and even more at YouTube. News and commentary have been written and published about her across the globe, both from traditional media and across blogosphere.

Here are some quick facts about Susan Boyle.

1. She was born in 1961. Same as me. And 1961 is the Year of the Ox. Supposedly, our year too!

2. Her care and attention for her mother put her pursuit of singing to a stop. Her mother died in 2007 at the age of 91

3. Pebbles is the name of her ten-year old cat.

4. One British writer from “The Sun” Colin Robertson had called Susan Boyle "Paula Potts." This is in reference to Paul Potts who also rose to fame a couple of years ago. In fact, Chief recalls first hearing Paul Pott’s voice last December 2005 when we were in Olwen Abergas’ home in New York. Now, I remember that too!

5. At 48, she is the youngest of nine children and lived in the same home all her life.

6. She is not really new in the music industry as she has recorded a charity CD in 1999. The song Susan Boyle recorded was a version of "Cry Me a River. This CD was produced at a school in Whitburn, West Lothian in 1999. How many copies? Reports say, only 1,000 copies.

7. A contract is brewing with Simon Cowell’s Syco Music company label. That is definitely a hit in the making. And wont be surprised if she makes an appearance in American Idol!

8. “Never been kissed?” She says that was just a joke.

9. She announced from the stage her dream was to be like West End star Elaine Paige.

10. She is a devout Catholic.

Celebrities for Obama

2009-01-21T06:51:00.000-08:00

No it was not the Academy Awards? Or the Grammys? Or the Emmy? Or a championship game between the Celtics and the Lakers at Staples Center? Or even the Super Bowl?

It was the day when the dream from millions takes a step closer to reality as Barack Obama took his oath of office as the 44th president of the US. And as the first African-American president. Celebrities from New York to Los Angeles became part of the millions who made their presence felt for hope and history. According to CNN, it wa broadcast in over 40 languages and one of the most watched events, along side the first steps of Neal Armstrong and last steps of Lady Diana.

Beyonce sang Etta James' "At Last". Sheryl Crow sang at the Midwestern Ball. Marc Anthony and Jennifer Lopez showed affection for each other at the Western Ball. Other celebrities who performed include Mariah Carey, Alicia Keys, Shakira, Sting, Faith Hill, Mary J. Blige, Stevie Wonder and Maroon 5.

Jon Bon Jovi sung the acoustic version of "Who Says You Can't Go Home?" at the Commander in Chief Ball where two officers danced with the Barack and Michelle.

Kid Rock and Kanye West were at the Youth Inaugural Ball where mostly 20-something crowd cheered both young celebrities.
At the swearing-in, celebrities who made their presence felt include Muhammad Ali, Jamie Lee Curtis, John Cusack, Leonardo DiCaprio, Smokey Robinson, Steven Spielberg, Bruce Springsteen, Magic Johnson, Val Kilmer Denzel Washington and many others.

Stevie Wonder and Sting performed at the Neighborhood Ball. Photo by Alex Brandon by AP.

But the real celebrity of all is Barack Obama, who on that day, or on any other day, was the most photographed person on earth… and definitely, the most blogged about person and event in blogosphere. Can’t wait to read the Yahoo Top 10 Searches update! Am sure Barack Obama is number one on that list!

History and Hope

2009-01-20T06:11:00.000-08:00

Today, history and hope unfold side by side as Barack Obama takes his oath of office at first black president of the United States.

The first-term Illinois senator will lead the most powerful nation in the world, hopefully out of two wars? He is the fourth youngest president and the son of a Kansas-born mother and Kenya-born father. He is 47 (same as my age), but most important of all, he is the first African-American in real life. In “24” they have had two African-American presidents already.

In a few hours, or rather at high-noon in Washington and amidst cold temperatures, thousands or maybe, even up to two million will gather for witness the dream of Martin Luther King become a reality.

Obama will stand on the West Front of the Capitol and place his left hand on a Holy Bible, which is really the same Bible that President Abraham Lincoln used at his first inauguration in 1861. The 35-word oath of office will be administered by Chief Justice John Roberts, has been uttered by every president since George Washington.

His oath-taking also puts an end to eight years of “W.”

Crowds at MOA after Xmas day

2008-12-26T21:22:00.000-08:00

It was the day after Christmas. And we found our way among the crowd at SM Mall of Asia. Malling is really a part of Filipino lifestyle. Whether it is SM or Glorietta, the crowds were everywhere.

Here are a few pictures snapped using my Canon Rebel DSLR.

You can see people taking time out to rest and even to sleep. What is missing are pillows and blankets for one tired shopper. I, too, dozed-off at Cafe Adriatico while Cecile and mom were having merienda.

Even more kids enjoyed running and jumping.

And kids took to the ice to showcase their skating skills and proud parents watched proudly.

Even more crowds enjoyed the breeze outside the Mall of Asia.

Jay Leno's presence on primetime

2008-12-12T22:51:00.000-08:00

If work long and hard during the day, one needs to relax and cool down late at night. And thanks to cable here at home, Chief and I are able to sit or lie down in our sofa and watch TV. These nights, it is often reruns of Sex in the city for Chief. Me, I would rather just sleep. But before Sarah Jessica Parker, we get to catch a few laughs from Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert. Or even up to David Letterman. One guy we miss on late night TV at home is Jay Leno.

A few days ago, news came out that Jay Leno was moving to primetime TV in the States. That caught many, including me by surprise. I have have heard that Conan o’Brien was taking over his slot soon. And now Jay Leno was extending his daily presence on NBC and entering a new viewing audience.

It was really more of a business decision. It does cost more to produce regular comedy, police or drama series as against talk shows, which is basically just a studio set and the host’s talent fees. And with some primetime shows not getting good ratings, Leno’s move becomes an ideal financial move too for NBC.

Plus having Leno earlier will give the older viewers a chance to watch the complete program. Just like me, I often skip the last segment of David Letterman.

According to an Ad Age report, "The idea of Jay building on in prime time every night of the week not only adds stability to the great lineup, but reinforces us as home of the best comedy," said Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC's entertainment division. Jay was born in New Rochelle, New York and is considered as one of the nicest guys on television and popularly known for his collection of classic cars and motorcycles. I remember that episode with Paul Newman where they “raced” around the studio set.

Did you know that he made his presence in Bosnia in 2001 where he performed for military troops associated with the war in Afghanistan?

In April 2004, he wrote a children’s book “If Roast Beef Could Fly” (from Simon & Schuster) which became a New York Times Bestseller. He also has published four versions of “Headlines,” which tells about bloopers in print media.

He took over hosting the “Tonight Show” for decades which has h won two Emmys in 1995 for Outstanding Comedy, Variety or Music Series, and in 1996 for Outstanding Technical Direction. He has received a star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame. Before becoming host of “Tonight,” Leno had been the exclusive guest host on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” since September 1987.

We really need more good laughs on primetime!

Pacquaio's pound for cash

2008-12-10T04:58:00.000-08:00

Pacquiao returned to country last Wednesday, a few days after his punching presence in the ring caused Oscar dela Hoya to give up after 8 rounds last Sunday. Am sure that many bloggers have written about the success of Manny Pacquiao! His illustration from pinoysports.com.ph

Here are some quick facts about his recent win, specially, his presence on HBO.

1. According to HBO, the fight at the MGM Grand Garden in Las Vegas generated about 1.25 million pay-per-view buys.

2. It is only the fourth time a non-heavyweight bout in the US reached at least one million. Interesting to note that Oscar De La Hoya has been in the ring in all the four fights.

3. Pacquiao will get an estimated gross amount worth $11.2 million or P548.8 million from the above earnings. Can you imagine how many poor families that amount can feed for one year?

4. Pacquiao’s previous pay-per-view high was 405,000 buys registered last April in his rematch against Juan Manuel Marquez.

5. It is his birthday on December 17! He is turning 30.

6. Guess who gave him a carrot cake decorated with a red boxing glove and a green boxing belt with the inscription "World’s No. 1 Pound-for-Pound Fighter."

7. He has the World Boxing Council (WBC) Flyweight, International Boxing Federation Super Bantamweight, WBC Super Featherweight, and WBC Lightweight world titles. And the first Asian to do it!

8. He lost to incumbent Rep. Darlene Antonino-Custodio, when he ran as congressman in South Cotabato’s first district in 2007. I hope he doesn’t make his presence in politics. He only be used by “trapos.”

9. His first name is Emmanuel.

10. He rode a 22-foot float for a motorcade-parade in General Santos City

The Pacman Wins

2008-12-07T23:21:00.000-08:00

It was a long wait this Sunday afternoon here at our Greenhome and around the country. Yes, Manny Pacquiao wins the dream match against Oscar dela Joya.

In-between the barrage of commercials from Revicon and San Miguel Beer, millions of Filipinos cheered as the “pacman” punched his way through the “golden boys” fists.

But it wasn’t really much of a fight. It was a lopsided fight. Oscar wasn’t as aggressive as before. Probably because of his age. Or he just wanted to protect his good looks?

Anyway, Pacquiao's victory gave moments of celebration for the Filipinos wherever their presence is felt!

Kevin Bacon reaches out

2008-12-05T07:25:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning, we were catching snippets of “The Today Show” on cable (Channel 19). And we saw Kevin Bacon collecting gifts and toys from the live audience that gathered at Rockefeller Plaza, New York. And later being interviewed by the hosts, Matt Lauer, Meredith Viera, Al Roker and Ann Curry.

Ann asked Kevin about his social networking site called Six Degrees. Kevin said that this site reaches out to hundreds of charity organizations around the globe. I had written about social networking sites before in my column at the Manila Times and through my research, I had learned that SixDegrees.org links people to charities.

In this morning’s episode, Kevin was promoting his latest movie, “Frost/Nixon” where he plays Jack Brennan. The film directed by Ron Howard (remember, Richie Cunningham of Happy Days?). This film version of a Broadway play about the relationship of broadcaster David Frost (played by Michael Sheen) and former US president, Richard Nixon (Frank Langella).

But these words are about Kevin’s online presence through six degrees.com which reaches out to people who have more in life to share with the majority who have less.

Maybe, next time, Chief and I are in the East Coast, we can wake up early enough to catch the live broadcast of the show! Hopefully!

Losing lives in Mumbai

2008-12-03T16:01:00.000-08:00

A few days ago, around 104 persons lost their lives when terrorists, dressed in black shirts and jeans, attacked targets in Mumbai, the capital of Maharashtra state. Hundreds more were wounded as gunmen fired indiscriminately and almost simultaneously, at high-end hotels like the Taj Mahal Hotel and Oberio Hotel. Other places that was attacked included a popular restaurant, the 19th century Chhatrapati Shivaji railroad train station, and a Jewish center.

Photo shows parts of Taj Mahal Hotel in smoke during the terrorist attack in Mumbai last November 29, 2008. Photo credit: Arko Datta of Reuters

Indian commandos and other military forces made their presence felt and moved in the rescue hostages. Explosions and gunshots were exchanged in many areas, while hostages escaped from the hotels. The terrorists were looking for American and British nationals and tourists.

Photo shows Rapid Action Force (RAF) riot policemen near the Taj Mahal Hotel in Mumbai taken a few days ago. Photo credit: Jayanta Shaw of Reuters

Curfew was declared around the Taj Mahal Hotel. Qucikly, I recalled the 12 midnight to 4:00am curfew in the Philippines back in 1972 when the late President Marcos placed the country under martial law. Or more recently, when President Arroyo had a one night curfew in Metro Manila.

According to a news story by Anita Chang from Associated Press, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had blamed "external forces." He says, "The well-planned and well-orchestrated attacks, probably with external linkages, were intended to create a sense of panic, by choosing high profile targets and indiscriminately killing foreigners."

While the news was unfolding over CNN and major news networks, online media was quick to inform and spread the latest updates, primarily through twitters and blogs.

These words pay tribute to the men and women in Mumbai who have lost their lives and hundred more who were hurt because of these attacks. I will not try to analyze the motives behind these incidents and will leave that to the experts. But I know and believe, violence has no role in our daily lives.

Carnival of Light

2008-11-17T04:36:00.000-08:00

When I read the news on Yahoo today that Sir Paul McCartney was looking at releasing a previously unreleased Beatle’s song. This quickly caught my attention and being a fan of the Fav Four, there was no way I could not blog about the continuing presence and impact of the Beatles into our lives.

But I needed to find out what the “Carnival of Light” really is. I browed around the web and learned that
this piece of Beatle’s music is termed as an experimental piece. And at 14 minutes is much much longer than “Hey Jude.”

"Carnival of Light" was recorded on January 5, 1967. It was recorded after the vocal overdubbing sessions for "Penny Lane". Sir Paul McCartney has said it was around fifteen minutes but in “The Complete Beatles Chronicle” it's listed as lasting 13 minutes and 48 seconds.

According to “The Observer of Britain” in a report pubished last Sunday, McCartney wants to release the “holy grail of Beatles obsessives.” But he would would need the consent of the surviving wives of John Lennon (Yoko Ono), George Harrison (Olivia Harrison) and Ringo Starr to release the track.

The song was recorded in January 1967, after designer David Vaughan painted a psychedelic design on a piano owned by Paul McCartney. David asked Paul if he could contribute a musical piece for the upcoming The Million Volt Light and Sound Rave, which was an art festival organised by Binder, Edwards & Vaughan. The Festival was a showcase for electronic music and light shows

And McCartney said yes.

According to Beatles expert Mark Lewisohn says the song included "distorted, hypnotic drum and organ sounds, a distorted lead guitar and the sound of a church organ.” Mark listened to the song in 1987 while compiling his book The Complete Beatles Recording Sessions, (published by Harmony Books) various effects (water gargling was one). He also says that Lennon and McCartney are also heard screaming and bawling aloud random phrases like 'Are you alright?'

Another buzz about Sir Paul is that he is “considering” writing the soundtrack for “Shrek 4.” I can imagine Donkey singing already.

Obama and Jon Stewart

2008-11-13T07:03:00.000-08:00

One night, after the 2008 elections, we were watching the replay of the joint episode of the election day coverage by Jon Stewart and Steven Colbert. Even as we knew the outcome, we could still laugh at the antics of both comedians.

Like many other Filipinos, Chief and I were tuned in online eagerly awaiting the results of the US elections last Friday, 05 November 2008. Incidentally, that was also a significant day for Chief and myself. We had a dinner date at Le Maison, Greenbelt 5.

According to an Ad Age story by Michael Learmonth, election coverage mattered to viewers who want easy and quick access to the latest news. Who else would provide the latest news than CNN? CNN had 13.1 million viewers on election day.

The top three cable news networks -- Fox News, CNN and MSNBC all had 27.7 million viewers. These is compared with 31.9 million who watched network news, ABC, CBS and NBC. But network audience viewership dropped by 16%, according to the Ad Age story.

Even comedy shows like “Saturday Night Live,” “The Colbert Report” and “The Daily Show With Jon Stewart" gained both a bigger audience and advertising revenues from brands like Apple, Anheuser-Busch, AT&T, Columbia Sportswear and even Volkswagen.

Even "30 Rock," enjoyed higher ratings.

President-elect Obama’s appearance in the Comedy Central’s "The Daily Show With Jon Stewart" last October 29 had a record of 3.6 million viewers. And that not counting viewers in this part of the world.

I remember when my cousin used to watch "The Daily Show With Jon Stewart" at CNN when we were still in Saigon. By the way, Jon Stewart is celebrating his birthday on the 28th of this month. He became the host of “The Daily Show” back in 1999 and won his first Emmy Award in 2001.

Aretha Franklin & McCartney

2008-11-12T20:43:00.000-08:00

Who is the greatest singer of all time? Your guess would probably be the same as mine? The Beatles? Or even Elvis Presley? Wait, not so fast.

According to a recent poll done Rolling Stone magazine and a story from Reuters last 11 November 2008, the “Queen of Soul” Aretha Franklin greatest singer in rock era.

Born March 25, 1942, Aretha Louise Franklin is known for her soul music but also has a large repertoire of jazz, rock, blues, pop and gospel. After Alison Krauss, she is the second most honored female singer in Grammy history with 20 Grammy Awards, which includes the Living Legend Grammy and the Lifetime Achievement Grammy.

Photo of Aretha Franklin was taken by Ryan Arrowsmith during a performance at the Nokia Theater in Dallas, Texas, last April 21, 2007.

And just a few nights ago, Chief and I caught her performance on “The View.”

And guess who is number two? Ray Charles. Elvis Presley came in third. Sam Cooke came in 4th while John Lennon was 5th.

Other musicians in the list include Marvin Gaye was No. 6, Dylan at No. 7, Otis Redding No. 8, and Stevie Wonder at No. 9. and James Brown No. 10.

My favorite Sir Paul McCartney came in 11th. Photo of Sir Paul McCartney when he turned 64 last 18th June 2006. Remember the song “Will you still need me, will you still feed me, when I am 64” which he recorded when he was 24. Wow.

Around 179 musicians, producers, Rolling Stone editors, and other music-industry insiders were surveyed by the magazine and the list will be published this week in Rolling Stone Magazine.

The 100-strong list will be published on Friday, when Rolling Stone hits the newsstands with four different covers.

79 million watched

2008-11-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

Like many other Filipinos, I was tuned in online eagerly awaiting the results of the US elections last Friday, 05 November 2008. Incidentally, that was also a significant day for Chief and myself.

Like many other Filipinos, I was tuned in online eagerly awaiting the results of the US elections last Friday, 05 November 2008. Incidentally, that was also a significant day for Chief and myself. We had a dinner date at Le Maison, Greenbelt 5.

When I came to work that Friday morning, the TV was tuned in to CNN.

According to Nielsen, in a story by Michael Learmonth
published in Ad Age, cable news led the regular broadcast networks in keeping audience informed about the election. Even both Colbert and Stewart appeared in a joint program on election date (which we caught a reply last night).

Research showed that on that day, CNN had an average of 13.1 million viewers. Those numbers are just slightly ahead of more ABC which had 13.2 million. I wish I had data to share between kapuso and kapamilya.

Nearly 79 million people eagerly awaited the winner between Obama and McCain. According to Nielsen, these numbers are much much higher than four years ago (59 million), when Bush “won” his second term over John Kerry.

Am sure millions more watched Sarah Palin and Tina Fey's presence at "Saturday Night Live." Research shows that both pushed the program's ratings. I won't be surprised if Sarah Palin made her presence felt again on NBC’s “Saturday Night Live" or even, "The Colbert Report" as part of her next political campaign?

Curtis at 83

2008-10-19T06:52:00.000-07:00

It is very rare that I watch the live edition of “The View” on cable. But one night last week, Tony Curtis was special guest and I had to catch up with Danny Wilde, the character he played in the British TV series, “The Persuaders.”

Do you remember that TV series? It run for one season and was considered the most expensive British television series produced, estimated £100,000 per episode.

It was filmed in France, Spain, Sweden, and Italy where two playboys, played by Tony Curtis and Roger Moore, got in and out of trouble, using their charm and cars.

Moore played Lord Brett Sinclair is an Oxford-educated English aristocrat. He drove a Bahama Yellow Aston Martin DBS with V8 wheels and markings and personalised number plates of his initials: “ST 1” Danny Wilde drove a red Ferrari 246 Dino, many years before Crockett was blazing around Miami. Hehe.

I was surprised how old Tony Curtis was. Now, he was 83! Wow. And he looked old and far from his role in the Persuaders and in movies like “Some Like It Hot” done in 1959 with Jack Lemmon and Marilyn Monroe. Now, I remember that he was once romantically linked to M2 (aka Marilyn Monroe).

Did you know that he served in the US Navy during During World War aboard USS Proteus? And he witnessed the Japanese surrender in Tokyo Bay on September 2, 1945!

And that he is also a painter? Last year, his painting “The Red Table” was on display in the Metropolitan Museum in Manhattan. Some of his paintings sell for more than 25K!

But I guess, most fans know that he had been married six times and most known wife is Janet Leigh and is the dad of Jamie Lee Curtis. She is one reason why I always want to watch "True Lies" where she played the wife of Arnold S. Remember that escape scene where is handles an Uzi and it falls down the stairs.

He nearly died of pneumonia a couple of years ago and was in a coma for several days. During the interview at “The View” he was just seated and but still carried the charm as he kissed the hands of the hosts!

Scoop? There is a planned movie version of “The Persuaders” and Ben Stiller might… might play Danny Wilde?

Newman passes away

2008-09-28T03:08:00.000-07:00

Movie poster image of "Cool Hand Luke" from http://www.filmsite.org/posterpages

Last 26 September, “cool hand” Luke passed away at the age of 83. He died at his long-time home in Westport, Connecticut, of complications arising from cancer.

And just this morning, I was just watching the animated movie, “Car” at Fitness First. He was the voice behind “Doc Hudson.”

“Cool Hand Luke” was done in 1967 wherein Paul Newman plays the title role as Luke, a prisoner in a Florida prison camp. The movie was directed by Stuart Rosenberg. “Luke” was nominated for an Academy Award

Born Paul Leonard Newman, “Luke Jackson” or “Eddie Falco” is probably one of the few stars who had made his presence felt outside of the cinema in various fields. He was an entrepreneur and an auto racing enthusiast. On the race track, he won several national championships as a driver in Sports Car Club of America road racing and his race teams won several championships in open wheel IndyCar racing.

Photo of Newman behind a Ferrari 599 taken in July 2006 from
http://www.italiancar.net/site/news/06/0706/PaulNewman/PaulNewman.html

On the supermarket shelf, one can taste his pasta sauces, lemonade, popcorn, and salsa branded as “Newman's Own.” Note that he donated all profits and royalties to charity. Reports say that as of May 2007, these donations had exceeded US$220 million. This company was co-founded with A.E. Hotchner in 1982.

And on screen, he won an Academy Award, two Golden Globe Awards, a Screen Actors Guild Award, a Cannes Film Festival Award, an Emmy award, and many honorary awards.

Other movies I remember I watched are “Towering Inferno,” “The Sting” and “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.” One of his last movies was “The Road to Perdition” which I have to watch one of these days.

Habitat Presence

2008-09-26T01:34:00.000-07:00

Finally, I was able to see, first hand, what Habitat for Humanity is all about. Last Thursday morning, together with Paul Garilao and Angel Tiong, we joined the NWA team for a house-building program at St. Hannibal Community in Pasay City.

Habitat was founded in 1976 by Milliard and Linda Fuller in Americus, Georgia. And in 1996, U.S. President Bill Clinton awarded the Fullers, the nation’s highest civilian honor, Fuller the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Clinton called Habitat the most successful continuous community service project in the history of the United States.

By 2005, Habitat had built its 200,000th house outside the United States.

In 2008 Habitat for Humanity celebrated the 25th annual building project with Jimmy and Rosalyn Carter and called it The Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Work Project. Their hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

I remember a few years ago, even before our presence in Vietnam, former U.S. President Jimmy Carter had visited the Philippines to spread the word about Habitat. The former president had been involved with Habitat for many many years, after his presidency in the mid-70s. He had actually built houses.

Today, the St. Hannibal Community would benefit from the efforts of the volunteers.

Photos by Gil Velez

1081

2008-09-21T20:24:00.001-07:00

Last 21 September 1972, the late President Ferdinand Marcos issued Presidential decree 1018 which placed the country under martial law. That was nearly 36 years ago. And I was still an elementary student at Immaculate Concepcion Parish School. Gosh, that was really a long time ago! Anybody who studied in that school along Lantana Street?

With 1081, press freedom and other civil liberties were curtailed. I remember the image of Kit Tatad on TV reading Proclamation 1018. Congress and other media establishments were closed.

Journalists, student and labor activists, were hauled off to military compounds run by the army and the Philippine Constabulary.

But during those nights in September 1972, many families were affected by 1081 as military agents went into many households and arrested men and women whose ideas, words and beliefs were contrary to the government.

Plus, there was curfew from midnight to 4pm. And that was probably one of the better results of 1081. Crime rates plunged and there was peace and quiet in the streets. And I guess many families were happy not see the presence of criminals and hoodlums in the streets.

And I remember the Department of Tourism’s “Balikbayan” Program which brought in dollars from Filipinos living and working abroad. And Masagana 99 program.

1081 stretched for the next nine years until Marcos issued Proclamation 2045, formally ending martial law on January 17, 1981. Still, many from the opposition saw the lifting of martial law as a precondition to the visit of Pope John Paul II. An election followed in June 1981 but little believed the credibility of that political exercise.

More recently, there was a scare of martial law that Filipinos in HK made their presence felt out in the streets. Photo from AFP/Getty Images, taken last year nn the eve of the 35th anniversary of 1081.

Pacino and De Niro

2008-09-15T00:51:00.000-07:00

Actually, expected more from “Righteous Kill.” Imagine, De Niro and Pacino sharing the big screen. Yes, they were together in “The Godfather” but they really didn’t have scenes together. While in “Heat” I think the biggest scene was the street shoot-out.

Directed by Jon Avnet and written by Russell Gewirtz, the story is about two NYPD investigators hunting a vigilante killer.

Was it worth the trip to Edsa Shangrila to watch the movie? And my buttered popcorn and Chief's hotdog sandwich and the 300 pesos movie tickets? Maybe not? Could have been better as it was really just like a TV movie or a two-hour episode of NYPD Blues or the coming new season two-hour premiere of "24" entitled "Redemption." That, we have to watch at home with nachos.

I told Chief that I expected a shootout between De Niro and Pacino at the end of the movie or between Detective Perez played John Leguizamo and Detective Riley played Donnie Wahlberg. But I guess, both respected Academy Award winning actors are too old for any "run and gun" action scenes.

Still, their presence on the big screen is worth a 2-hour stay at the cinema.

Photos and movie poster from Righteous Kill Pictures.

Heroes from 9/11

2008-09-11T05:25:00.000-07:00

Last September 3, 2007, Officer Frank Macri of NYPD died of lung cancer that spread throughout his body. His family argues that the cancer is a result of hours of exposure in ground zero.

Officer Macri joins 23 other officers from NYPD and 341 FDNY firefighters whose presence during that fateful day gave their lives for their country

Thousands more men, women and children who lost their lives in 2001 when four commercial planes attacked different locations in the United States. Today, those events are called 9/11.

Chief and I were in our 1st Greenhome at Tran Nhat Duat, District 1, Ho Chi MInh City when CNN broke the news that the World Trade Center had crumbled to the ground, the Pentagon had been attacked and a third plane crashed in the fields.

We had just returned from work and couldn’t believe what was happening across the United States. We quickly thought of our cousins who were based in New York City and stayed up all night glued to CNN.

Much have been written about the men and women who died that day, specially the members of FDNY and NYPD. Documentaries and even a movie had been made in their memory. Am sure more entries in thousands of blogs on-line have paid tribute to these heroes.

Yes, the passengers American Airlines Flight 11, United Airlines Flight 175, American Airlines Flight 77 and United Airlines Flight 93 are among these heroes, together with the other men and women on the ground and the buildings struck by these planes. Photo credits from U.S. Navy photo by Chief Photographer's Mate Eric J. Tilford.

They represented over 90 nationalities across the world. Even today, people, including rescue workers suffer from lung disease brought about by extended exposure to dust from the WTC rubble.

Nadal's Presence at the Olympics

2008-08-24T05:02:00.000-07:00

What begun in the grass courts of the French Open, extended to Center Court of Wimbledon and climaxed at the medal’s stand of the on-going Olympic Games in Beijing, China.

Last Monday, August 18, 2008, Rafael Nadal of Spain won the Olympic gold to his streak of Grand Slam victories. Between the trophies of the French Open and Wimbledon, I would say that the Olympic Gold to be more prestigious, as it happens only every fours years. London would present the next challenge for today’s top ranked tennis players.
Photo of Nadal from REUTERS/Reinhard Krause (CHINA)

Nadal defeated Chilean Fernando Gonzalez in the men's singles final. He also earned the world number one ranking for the first time. He has won four consecutive French Open titles and his first Wimbledon this year, which pushed him to the top of the men’s ranking in tennis.

"It's more than my best dreams so I want to enjoy the moment. I know how difficult it is to win these things, especially here. Winning for me is unbelievable," says the 22-year old Nadal (from Yahoo News).

During the 2004 Athens Olympics Games, the Spainiard was an unknown. These days, his presence is one of the most sought-for in the Olympic Village.

Go Toni!

2008-08-21T02:43:00.000-07:00

Here's wishing the best of luck to Antoinette 'Toni' Rivero as she fights battles Sandra Saric from Croatia. Isn't that Vlade Divac's country?

They will meet at the Science and Technology University gym in Beijing tomorrow morning. Toni would need four straight wins to bag the gold and three for the silver.

According to Yahoo news, if Rivero defeats Saric, she will meet Hwang Kyung Seon. She is South Korea's two-time world champion. Rivero lost to Hwang four years ago during the Athens Olympics.

Philippine Taekwondo Association (PTA) president Robert Aventajado, said Rivero has become a more mature fighter since the setback. "Toni was only 16 in Athens," said the PTA head. "Besides, she was coming off a loss in the semifinals and had to fight Hwang right away with little rest. Hwang was a lot fresher."

Filipinos will surely pray hard to make Toni's presence be felt strongly in Beijing!

Phelps Gold

2008-08-13T06:01:00.001-07:00

Michael Phelps is today’s most popular athlete competing in the Beijing Olympics. And is probably on his way to breaking the record of Mark Spitz in the Olympic Games. Photo from http://www.whitehouse.gov/

Called the “Baltimore Bullet,” he was born in 30 June 1985, in Batimore, Maryland. Now, where was I during those years? Hmmmm, still with the Manila Bulletin.

As of this day, Phelps has won the Olympic Golds in 400 m individual medley, 4 x 100 m freestyle relay, 200 m freestyle, 200 m butterfly and 4 x 200 m freestyle relay.

Four years ago in Athens, he also won golds in the 100 m butterfly, 200 m butterfly, 200 m individual medley, 400 m individual medley, 4 x 200 m freestyle relay and 4 x 100 m medley relay, plus many other medals.

47 reasons

2008-08-09T16:03:00.003-07:00

There are many reasons to celebrate today, but the most important reason is the life and love that I share with Cecile Gabutina-Velez, more fondly called Chief. I have shared the last 7 years of my life with Chief, from Tagaytay, where our best friends first witnessed our relationship to Saigon, where we shared our first Greenhome at Tran Nhat Duat to Hung Vung 3 at the outskirts to Ho Chi Minh City to our present Greenhome at the heart of Makati City.

47 years ago?

2008-08-09T16:03:00.002-07:00

Yup, 47 years ago, today, the eldest child of Hector and Meya Velez was born! Can I scream Yahoo! But we didn’t have Internet during the 60s nor heard of brand called Yahoo! Now, 47 years later, I am working on that brand.

Am sure my Lolo Perico Velez was happy and Lola Fermina was smiling from the clouds. Tatang Sotero (my mom’s dad) was also surely happy.

Gosh, I need to look for baby pictures and upload here.

Soon.

Bishop Joel Baylon's Presence

2008-08-09T04:47:00.000-07:00

Bishop Joel Baylon’s Presence

Chief and I walked from Makati Shangrila Hotel at the heart of the Makati Central Business District (CBD) to catch the 6pm anticipated mass.

Bishop Joel Baylon was celebrating Mass, as part of the 25th year anniversary celebration of the Greenbelt Chapel.

The Chapel was full and we were standing outside the chapel, together with a couple of hundred other parishioners and visitors around Greenbelt.

Bishop Baylon introduced himself as the bishop of Masbate…. Even describing his youthful activism during the 80s. Just like me, when I joined all those rallies along Ayala Avenue and Mendiola!

47 tomorrow?

2008-08-08T22:14:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow am turning 47.

Not sure what Chief has planned for us tomorrow. Maybe, a long drive and a weekend in Tagaytay. Taal Vista Lodge? Actually, I was looking for a nice hotel in Tagaytay for the weekend, but I really didn’t have time to browse through the yellow pages and make reservations.

Friday was extra busy.

An early meeting with Junie and Angie at Starbucks Legazpi Street (really just a few meters from our Greenhome) for the EON@10 Program on Tuesday.

And then rushed off to McDonald’s Quezon Avenue, with Yaan Sarmiento, to catch the 6th Anniversary of McDonald’s Delivery Service. Adi Timbol and Paul Garilao were working together on this media event.

And then, back to Tuscan Bldg for a 1:30pm concall with the Visa client.

Then, dinner at Junie del Mundo’s place. A post-birthday celebration.

Other option for tomorrow, maybe, spend a long lazy evening in Makati Shangrila? Pamper ourselves under the sheets, while watching the sporting events at the Beijing Olympics… and enjoy a good view of the Makati skyline.

And cap it up with a really nice and sumptuous breakfast at the Circle’s Restaurant.

Whatever the plans, just to be present together with Chief would be the best gift of all!

Athletes Presence

2008-08-08T03:45:00.000-07:00

For the next few days, 10,500 athletes will make their presence felt in Beijing, People's Republic of China from August 8 to August 24, 2008

They are expected to compete in 302 events in 28 sports, one event more than was on the schedule of the 2004 games. There will 9 new events and these includes 2 from the BMX cycling. I remember Jose Sumalde, the former back to back King of Tour of Luzon back in the 70s who made his presence on the road around the routes of that cycling event. What ever happened to that event? Probably, no more sponsors. I also used to have a BMX bike.

This edition also marks the third time that Olympic events will have been held in the territories of two different National Olympic Committees (NOC), as the equestrian events will be held in Hong Kong. My best friend Bien Perez, who writes for South China Morning Post, (unless he is in Beijing with his wife Arleen) will probably be watching this event in HK?

Wishing the Philippine team the best of luck to go for gold and make the country proud!

Would you believe, when I pressed my thumb at the biometrics this morning, the clock read 8:08! Wow... that is really a lucky number!

Secretary Angelo Reyes

2008-08-05T08:07:00.000-07:00

I did a Servant Leader profile on Secretary Angelo Reyes.

Will post my published article soon.

US$ 14 million babies

2008-08-05T02:36:00.000-07:00

Knox Léon and Vivienne Marcheline Jolie-Pitt, the twins of Brad Pitt and my favorite action celebrity, Angelina Jolie, are gaining a 14 million dollar presence in the world! And this amount is being given to charity, according to their parents.

And they are just 3 weeks old. Wow!

There are more exclusive photos and interviews of the celebrity couple in the issue of People Magazine. In fact, 19 pages of photos.

Cover image of the magazine issue from www.people.com

I still have Lara Croft presence in our greenhome!

Dolphy at 80

2008-08-04T00:54:00.000-07:00

Chief and I were watching the TV special, "Dolphy: The King of Comedy at 80." And I looked back and said to myself, I have not yet scribbled my thoughts and words about the presence of the King of Comedy. How could I have missed writing about Dolphy? Already, I had one student last year, who had written and successfully defended a thesis on Dolphy.

Now, am writing a few words about JOhn Purungtong!

Brawl Presence

2008-07-23T17:27:00.000-07:00

Nobody really expected it, but it happened yesterday at Auburn Hills. Yup, there was a bench-clearing scuffle in an WNBA basketball game between Los Angeles and Detroit. The Sparkes won 84-81 victory by the Sparks, ending a five-game road losing streak.

Photo by Jerry S. Mendoza of AP shows players presence on the court and not playing basketball.

Many players and even coaches made their presence felt on the court which was captured live on television and photos going around blogosphere.

The game was done to the last 4.5 seconds when the ten players presence on left on the court changed to a fight or a scuffle which included players and coaches on the bench.

It all begun when Parker and Shock forward Plenette Pierson tangled arms as they were moving down the court. Both players to tumbled to the floor. And all hell broke loose.

Both benches were emptied. Lisa Leslie came to Parker's rescue but was pushed away by Shock assistant coach Rick Mahorn, causing her to fall to the hardwood floor. DeLisha Milton-Jones of the LA Sparks then slapped Mahorn in the back. Players like Parker, Milton-Jones, Mahorn and Pierson were ejected. Shock assistant coach Rick Mahorn is also ejected for pushing Sparks' Lisa Leslie. Shock player Cheryl Ford injured her knee and had to be taken away in a wheelchair

In a story published in the LA Times, WNBA President Donna Orender says, "It was clear emotions were running high. It's unfortunate that when emotions run over the top, something like this had to happen."

Photo by Jerry Mendoza of AP shows Detroit assistant coach Rick Mahorn as he pushes Lisa Leslie of the Sparks to the ground during a scuffle in the closing seconds of the game between the LA and Detroit in Auburn Hills, Michigan last Tuesday.

The Dark Knight

2008-07-21T03:49:00.000-07:00

Finally, Sunday afternoon, after Mass at Rockwell Powerplant Mall, Chief and I watched “The Dark Knight.” We caught the 11:20am screening and there were still many empty seats. Unlike, when we went out a couple of hours later… there was a long line. And no Gretchen Baretto, whom we saw earlier at Figaro Coffee.

“The Dark Knight” is directed by Christopher Nolan and is based on the DC Comics character Batman. We are surprised that the Dark Knight had gone beyond Gotham City in this movie as he snatched Lau, a Chinese accountant / gangster based in HK. Reminds me of Tom Cruise in Shanghai for “Mission Impossible.”

Christian Bale again appears as Bruce Wayne and Batman. This is a sequel to “Batman
Begins” released in 2005. This is the last movie where Heath Ledger makes his presence makes on the wide screen. In this film, the Joker takes the limelight. And one can’t help comparisons with Jack Nicholson who had played The Joker in
Tim Burton's 1989 version of Batman.

Aaron Eckhart as District Attorney Harvey Dent’s character takes on a major role and eventually becomes “Two Face.” Michael Caine is Alfred and am quick to remember him in “Too Late The Hero” one of the mid-70s movie filmed in the Philippines which my dad was worked on when he was with VicNayve Productions.

Photos from www.thedarkknight.warnerbros.com/

Center to the earth

2008-07-14T06:17:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday night, at Cinema 6, Glorietta 3, I caught a screening of "Journey to the center of the earth." Actually, I wanted to watch "Wanted." Two words in the same sentence. hehe. But I promised Chief that we would watch the latest Angelina Jolie movie together.

So, it was nearly two hours with Brendan Frasier's presence on the wide screen for the latest movie adaptation of the classic book from Jules Gabriel Vernes. Movie poster from New Line Cinema.

Brendan Frasier is Trevor Anderson, a volcanologist, who suddeny takes his nephew, Sean (played by Josh Hutcherson) on an adventure guided by Jules Verne’s book, “Journey to the center of the earth.” Trevor receives a box of momentos from Sean’s mother. Here, Trevor discovers a yoyo and an old copy of Verne’s book, with marginal notes. Like a map to the center of the earth.

They take a flight to Iceland and soon on their fall to the center of the earth, with Hannah (played Anita Briem), who charges Trevor a “per hour” rate to guide them through the mountains. Isn't Hannah sexy?

The journey takes them to Max’s cave at the center of the earth! Beyond this, I would let you watch the movie (still showing as I scribble this blog) directed Eric Brevig.
Michael Weiss, Jennifer Flackett, Mark Levin wrote the screenplay.

I guarantee a few surprises along this journey!

Or simply read the book from Jules Verne.

Nadal's Presence

2008-07-06T22:29:00.000-07:00

Atleast Rafael Nadal finally made his presence felt at the grass courts of Wimbeldon this year. The game was actually delayed for a couple of hours and I needed to rest and sleep early for a Quarterly Agency Review on Monday.

Through my sleep, Nadal slowly won out the match against Federer!

Rafa's win is his 5th Grand Slam win, after winning four straight French Open titles, since 2005. Federer hasn't won on this clay court. According to the program hosts, Rafa's victory in Wimbledon marks the first time a player had won both the French Open and Wimbledon on the same year. Bjorn Borg won both titles last in 1980, when I was still in the corridors of the Faculty of Arts and Letters.

The left-handed player, born in Mallorca, Spain is also just the second player from Spain to have won the Wimbledon in 42 years. Gosh, I was still a toddler then.

By the way, did you know that his uncle is a professional football player who played for FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team?

Photo of Rafa from www.rafaelnadal.com/

Weekend

2008-07-06T21:26:00.000-07:00

The weekend came and went and we didn't even feel it.

Gym Presence

2008-07-05T19:05:00.000-07:00

Finally, I am back at Fitness First. Yahoo. Am having my first work-out since I joined EON last May 2008. It has been a couple months since I hit the bike and the threadmill and sweat. Just finished ten minutes or nearly 4 kilometers in the bike.

Now, will hit the threadmill and lift some weights. But that is NOT me in the photo below from the local Fitness First website at www.fitnessfirst.com.ph

Chief has been hitting Fitness First Plus, thrice a week consistently for the past couple of months and proudly showing off her building muscles. Good for my wife.

My cousin, Patrick, who is now here in the country, but currently in Cebu with his mom have had regular gym presence at Equinox in the Big Apple. And last Wednesday night, Chief and Patrick were comparing notes on their work-outs!

Me? Need to get back into the groove of the gym. Hopefully, work load at EON would be more of an incentive to get back my own gym presence.

Patrick

2008-07-04T04:26:00.001-07:00

Patrick is still here in Manila, but is in Cebu City right now with his mom.

Cousins Presence

2008-06-30T00:03:00.000-07:00

Our first cousins are here in Manila, after many many years and making their presence felt to our own families and around Makati.

Celtics Presence

2008-06-20T08:46:00.000-07:00

I must raise a bottle of San Mig Light beer for the recent victory of the Boston Celtics over the Los Angeles Lakers the other day for their 17th NBA Championship. Kudos to Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen and the rest of the team directed by Doc Rivers. Plus Posey and PJ Brown. And Danny Ainge too! After a long time, a new championship banner will wave proudly among Celtic fans. Photo of Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce celebrating by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)

Now along with the Boston Red Sox and the Boston Marathon and our favorite legal series, Boston Legal... and Boston Public, the Boston Celtics is again a proud name and a buzz word in blogosphere after their last trophy 22 years ago!

Chief and I have never been to Boston. Maybe, one day, we will watch an NBA game at the Boston Garden and see feel how Larry Bird and company dominated the courts many years ago.

Sorry, am admittedly a Lakers fan, just like Melvin Calimag and many other Filipinos. But the Lakers are a young team and hopefully, with Andrew Bynum and Chris Mihn in the line-up next year, the Lakers won't be just two games away from a championship.

Last December 2007, Chief and I, together with Patrick Velez, were able to watch our real live NBA game in New Jersey. Atleast, at that game, Jason Kidd was still with the Nets. But their team was washed out by the Detroit Pistons.

It is really a different feeling to watch a live NBA game.

Celtics vs Lakers

2008-06-02T05:15:00.000-07:00

In a few days, the Lakers and the Celtics will meet in the NBA Finals. This has not happened since the 80s, back when I was still working in the Manila Bulletin.

It is also a battle between Phil Jackson and Red Auerbach, who used to coach the Celtics. According to a story in Yahoo Sports Auerbach by Adrian Wojnarowski, Red “shaped and reshaped the Celtics for three different title eras. There were the Russell-Cousy Celtics and the Havlicek-Cowens Celtics and the Bird-McHale-Parish Celtics.”

In interviews, Red has these words about Jackson. “He’s never tried building a team and teaching the fundamentals,”

Photo of Phil Jackson with the Lakers from Getty Images.
Jackson will make his coaching presence in pursuit of his 10th title and pass Red for the most championships in coaching history. If 2008 is the year for Jackson, the battle between Red and Phil comes to an end.

Alongside, people are also comparing Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, who is this year’s MVP. I think the comparisons can be made as both played under different teams and environment. Plus, I do think MJ is still the best basketball player of all time, although not necessarily the brightest due to his move to come out of retirement and play for the Wizards. He should have really quit while he was ahead and on top.

Can’t wait to watch this championship series!

Team in Tagaytay

2008-05-31T02:13:00.000-07:00

This weekend, the Corp 2 Team of EON is in Tagaytay for our 1st Planning Session, for the several brands the team is handling. Sorry, these brands are confidential, but definitely, include some of the most popular and respected brands in the world.

At least we have bottomless Coke Zero and lots of Nestle Crunch, Tempura Flavored Snacks, V-cut Piattos and Growers peanuts. But none of these brands are our clients.

Jillian Ilao is the newest member of our team. Not that the other two ladies are old? hehehe. They are young too. Adi Timbol and Angel Tiong.

We will be here in Tagaytay up to Sunday afternoon.

Indy is back

2008-05-24T06:16:00.000-07:00

Yup, Chief and I watched the return of Dr. Henry Jones II, aka Indiana Jones, at Greenbelt 3.

Ka Beltran

2008-05-21T08:23:00.000-07:00

Ka Crispin Beltran recently passed away. A moment of silence please.

Below is the published news from www.mb.com

Opposition lawmaker and veteran labor leader Crispin "Ka Bel" Beltran died yesterday from head injuries after falling from a ladder at his house in San Jose del Monte City, Bulacan. He was 75.

Beltran died while being treated by doctors at the Far Eastern University (FEU) Hospital in Quezon City where he was rushed after falling four meters head first from the roof of his house.

Reports said Beltran was about to climb down a 14-foot ladder after fixing the roof of his house at around 6 a.m. when the accident happened.

Doctors from the FEU Hospital said the Anakpawis representative died at exactly 11:48 a.m. due to head laceration and brain injuries.

Beltran’s head and eyes were reportedly swollen when he was rushed to the hospital after the accident. His daughter, Ofelia, said her father went up to fix something on the roof and fell as he was on his way down from the ladder step 14 feet from the ground.

Ofelia said the lawmaker suffered at least five cardiac arrests following the accident. She said they were told by the doctors that her father was already "brain dead" when he was taken to the hospital but they tried to revive him.

Beltran was first rushed to the North Caloocan Doctors Hospital but was transferred to the FEU Hospital due to lack of facilities.

Beltran is survived by his wife, Rosario, 11 children, 29 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

First Day @ EON

2008-05-02T15:26:00.000-07:00

Today was my first official working day at EON.

Fr. Armand @ 55

2008-04-30T18:45:00.000-07:00

It was Fr. Armand's 55th birthday today, and Cecile and I, together with Grace Feliciano, my friend from the Ateneo "unwinders" attended this celebration. Photo shows Grace, Fr. Armand, Cecile and myself. More than a hundred of Fr. Armand's closest family (including his mom) and friends (from SMC, UPCP, Yuppeace, CodeRED Magazine, etc.) were present for an evening of inspiring words and music.

The invitation read:

“A new leaf emerges in time for Fr. Armand’s 55th birthday. Join us for thanksgiving as we celebrate and nurture the tree of life.

6pm, Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Joy Center, Don Bosco Makati
In lieu of gifts, donations are welcome.”

And there was a letter with his words, and I quote, “I dream for you and for me meaningful lives of Pinoy kagandahang-loob. This is compassionate leadership. It is non-violent. It is the leadership style of Jesus Christ. Together, let us invest our faith on our task of nation-building.

I dream of varied and effective educating initiatives to shape the minds and hearts of the young. I need your support for CodeRED, the family leadership magazine on character and competence. I dream of enriching the lives of our youth leaders with seminars, fora, gigs and more creative strategies. Here is your chance to share your talent, time and treasure. Photo shows Fr. Armand, Carol San Pedro (editor of CodeRED Magazine) and my wife, Cecile Gabutina-Velez. Both Carol and Cecile used to work for J. Walter Thompson.

I dream of a CodeRED Society where individual lives of kagandahang loob, out faith-politics of compassion, our servant leadership magazine as our mouthpiece, with our various servant leadership activities converge with each other to nurture the tree of leadership for our people. Come and journey with me and many others as we gather together the little we could share, and build a future for our children here in our country.

Let us dream for our country. And you know what, it starts in your heart."

Hector and Rene

2008-04-30T02:36:00.001-07:00

Will write about my dad, Hector Velez and my ninong, Rene Velez.

Daet Presence

2008-04-27T04:05:00.000-07:00

Coming soon.

Pacino and De Niro

2008-04-22T05:08:00.000-07:00

Coming soon the combined presence of Al Pacino and Robert de Niro in the movie "The Righteous Kill." Photo from Overture Films by Ken Regan.

Jackie Chan and Jet Li together

2008-04-19T15:59:00.000-07:00

This Saturday afternoon, after coffee and chocolate cake at Figaro Coffee at Greenbelt 3, we caught the The Forbidden Kingdom at Cinema 2.

This is the latest martial arts-adventure film directed by Rob Minkoff and is the first time, Jackie Chan (as Lu Yan / Lu Dongbin) and Jet Li (as The Silent Monk / Sun Wukong), appear together as foe and friends in the screen. Yup, both actors had dual roles.

Must admit that the movie brings back memories of other martial arts films like Drunken Master, Snake in the Eagle’s Shadow and even the Karate Kid, where Ralph Macchio learns kung-fu from Pat Morita. Now, Jackie Chan and Jet Li teach the young American various moves and steps.

The action sequences were choreographed by Yuen Woo-ping and the fight scene between Chan and Li is more than enough to keep the audience glued to their seats. I think each had equal hits and blocks, falls and slides, jumps and leaps, and to think that Chan’s character was drunk. Remember Drunken Master? And did you know that Woo-ping also did the scenes from "The Matrix."

According to news reports, when Chan and Li did film action scenes together for the first time, they both expressed how easy it was to work with one another. Jackie Chan says, “ I have not worked with someone whom I’m comfortable with, in terms of movements, rhythm and natural reactions, in the last 10 years. I have done many fight scenes with others but there were usually more than 10 takes, which is a waste of time as the person may forget his moves and unnecessary injuries. When I fought with Li, our actions were quick. We also didn’t have to do the same stunt over 20 times.”

After the movie, I quickly texted Bob Novales to bring his boys to catch the movie. And I might watch it again it Miguel.

Yes, it is worth your pesos! Catch the movie soon and enjoy the presence of two of filmdom’s most respected and admired martial arts actors, Jackie Chan and Jet Li. Plus Liu Yi Fei as Golden Sparrow is cute! That would be another blog! All the four heroes are seen in the above picture as they prepare to fight the warlord's army.

Check out the movie website at http://www.forbiddenkingdommovie.com/

Photos of fight scenes of Jackie Chan and Jet Li and movie poster courtesy of Liongate Films.

Varian Fry's Presence

2008-04-10T00:26:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday night, Chief and I just stayed at our Greenhome after a working day. It was our first day back to work after the long weekend.

I stumbled into the Hallmark Network and caught an image of marching German soldiers into Marsielles. This was a scene from “Varian’s War.” We both found these images interesting and we stayed on to finish the movie.

Now, who is Varian Fry? And what was his war?

I quickly “googled” his name and found out from Wikipedia that Varian Fry is America’s Schindler. You probably remember that Steven Spielberg movie about a man who helps Jews escape Germany. Images from www.showtime.com

Varian Mackey Fry was an educated American journalist who helped around 2,000 to 4,000 anti-Nazi and Jewish refugees to escape Germany and the Holocaust.

In that scene in the movie, we saw Varian Fry (played by William Hurt) witnessing how the Nazis where persecuting the Jews. As a foreign correspondent for the American journal, “The Living Age,” he was in Berlin in 1935

Returning to the States, he helped raise money through the Emergency Rescue Committee. In the movie, Fry gives an inspiring speech during a fund-raising party to help persons flee the Nazis.

Fry developed a short list of refugees that including intellectuals, from artists to teachers. By August 1940, he was in Marsielle where hundreds fall in seeking any chance to escape France. The movie show Fry with the intellectuals taking a train and walking through the forest to reach the Spanish border.

He actually helped more than 2,200 people cross the border to neutral Portugal. Others escaped abroad ships leaving Marseille for the French colony of Martinique.

Fry had a lot of help from Miriam Davenport (played by Julia Ormond) She is described as a former art student at the Sorbonne, and a lover of the arts. She easily talks about her sex life in the movie but is rejected by Fry as she offers to sleep with him.

In the movie, Fry is surprised that Hiram Bingham IV, the American Vice Consul in Marseille was actually supportive of his cause. He was personally responsible for issuing thousands of visas, both legal and illegal. In the movie, he “housed” a few of the intellectuals in Fry’s list.

After the war, Fry published in 1945 Surrender on Demand about book about his time in France and also wrote and spoke extensively about the fate of Jews in Europe. Image of Fry and Davenport from Wikipedia

After the war, his cause and efforts were recognized. He received the Legion of Honor from France in 1967.

In the States, he is known as The American Schindler and in 1995 became the first United States citizen to be listed in the Righteous Among the Nations at Israel's national Holocaust Memorial, Yad Vashem. Image shows William Hurt as Varian Fry.

The square in front of the Consulate in Marsielle was renamed Place Varian Fry. Even a street in the newly reconstructed East/West Berlin Wall area was named Varian-Fry-Strasse .

“Varian’s War” was written and directed by Lionel Chetwynd co-produced by Barbra Streisand. Varian Fry is definitely another person whose presence created a long-lasting impact on the lives of thousands across the world!

Presence of a King

2008-04-04T05:37:00.000-07:00

40 years ago, Dr. Martin Luther King was assassinated by James Earl Ray at balcony of room 306 of the Lorraine Motel, in Memphis. His life and death raised the consciousness of many Americans on the civil rights movement during the 1960s. Photo from Wikipedia.

His “I Have a Dream” speech during the 1963 March to Washington continues to resonate in the minds and hearts of many Americans. He has been quoted by candidates for the Oval Office in Washingston.

I was still a young kid in 1968 and didn’t really know who Dr. King was until my college years in UST.

Today, am watching a special feature on Dr. King at the “Today” Show at NBC. Al Roker is talking to Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson and other leading African-American leaders about what the 40th anniversary means.

For me, his life and death is a continuing example of how one’s presence can continue to change lines. His is a rare man whose iconic presence inspires men and women, regardless of race, color or creed, to do good for others!

Hi son, Martin Luther King III mentioned on the “Today” Show that his dad was advocating for economic equality. His quoted figures of how many Americans live below the poverty line and how these needs have to be addressed and resolved by three candidates (Obama, Clinton and McCain).

Now, whether any of the candidates translate King’s dream and vision for economic equality after November 2008, remains to be seen and realized.

!

Ramiele and Katherine

2008-03-25T16:30:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is that time of the year and the show American Idol is down to the last ten hopefuls whose dreams of fame and glory rests upon the critiques of Simon, Paula and Randy and the popularity votes across the United States.

From where we sit at our Greenhome in the heart of Makati City, Chief intensely watches and listens and even critiques as each singer pursues his or her dream on television. Sometimes, I give a comment or two. But would really admire the looks and the charm of the female singers specially, Ramiele Malubay.

Comparisons are made.

According to a news feature published in Yahoo News, Ramiele is being compare to Katherine McFee (who was another favorite of mine, together with Jasmine Trias).

The 20-year old Filipina, born and raised in the US, has a powerful voice, but sometimes, takes the safe route. Personally, I find her charming and cute but still needs more power and emotion in her songs. Ramiele is being compared to Katharine McPhee from Season 5 runner-up. Taylor Hicks won during that season.

Patrick's Presence

2008-03-14T05:39:00.001-07:00

Patrick Velez continues to make his presence in our lives. He is my first cousin, as his dad (Rene) and my dad (Hector) are brothers. In 2005, his presence was felt in HCMC, where he stayed with us for a few months. I remember, I picked him up at Tan Son Nhat Airport, brought him to McCann Erickson office to meet Cecile, then rushed back home to Tran Nhat Duat to drop his bags and shower and pack a luggage to join me for my trip to Hanoi! He was amazed with the thousands of motorbikes on the road and Vietnamese "ao dai."

Here are pictures from his Vietnam "tour of duty" from May to August 2005.

Patrick inside a music shop in Hanoi's backpackers area, where we stayed for four days that stretched through the weekend so we could go around Halong Bay, around 2 hours by bus.

Patrick with my REMBA 2 students from the Hanoi School of Business, enjoying "bia oi" in the streets of Hanoi. After beer, we even went for karaoke. And he also joined my training workshop and role-played as a client.

Going on board a boat for our trip along Halong Bay. Try riding these boats without the luxury and convenience of the "love boat." We spent a night in one of the islands while other backpackers opted to sleep on the boat... and got robbed!

And during our trip along the Mekong Delta, he played around with this snake.

Patrick helped us pack and unpack our stuff in our 1st Greenhome at 25 Tran Nhat Duat Street. Then, we transfered to Phu My Hung, where Patrick's presence continued even until the arrival of my sister, Minnie.

Around September 2005, my sister Minnie arrived in HCMC. It was her second overseas trip (after HK) and the first time (since the mid-70s) to share many experiences with Patrick. He also showed Minnie around HCMC, accompanying her on a city tour, just like a big brother. Photo taken at the Sheraton Hotel, our favorite hotel where we had breakfast after an hour of tennis at the Rex Hotel. This was uur last breakfast together before Patrick flies back to the States. Maybe, next time, they will meet each other in the East Coast?

Above is a photo taken during our first visit to New York last January 2004. Patrick is in a grey shirt. Also in photo is his mom and dad and brother, Ben and eldest sister, Renelle.

Photo shows Chief and myself, with Patrick at the center. His dad and my ninong, Tito Rene is on the right side.

Photo shows Chief and I and Patrick (right) enjoying dinner last December 2007 at the Russsian Tea Room, one of the more famous restaurants in New York City.

Today is his birthday! Happy birthday cousin and may you achieve your "half a pat" goal! And here's to more presence with us again soon.

Fr. Joe Dizon & Communal Action

2008-03-14T05:39:00.000-07:00

Photo of Fr. Joe Dizon on a near empty stage as organizers prepare for a rally.

According to a published story in the Malaya last December 11, 2007, Fr. Joe Dizon, a convenor of the group Ecumenical Voice for Peace and Human Rights, said: "She (Arroyo) will easily surpass Marcos in violating human rights because at least Marcos had the decency to declare martial law while she is still (pretending) to follow the rule of law… she just reiterates it again and again. That is her hypocrisy," Dizon said.

But there are many other hypocrites, specially, people who stand and watch in the sidelines and wait for change to happen before their lives.

Didn't they hear the call for "communal action?"

My photo shows Fr.Joe Dizon being interviewed by a TV journalist.

I haven’t joined an anti-GMA rally in a long time, since the Sept. 21, 2006 rally in Makati City. But through these words, I join other Filipinos in search for truth and justice.

Shouldn't you be part of CBCP's call for "communal action?"

Kite Runner's Presence

2008-03-13T05:26:00.000-07:00

Cecile and I watched this movie Tuesday night at the Powerplant Cinema at Rockwell. Olwen Abergas had given us a copy of the book and strongly urged... literally pushing us to watch this movie while we were in the States last December, but we missed it. Now, we saw it and must admit, the movie tells a very good heart-warming story. Chief was describing to me the loose ends not captured in the movie as she had finished the book.

Now, it is my turn to read and finish the book. Hopefully, while we are in Camigiun next week.

Women Presence

2008-03-08T06:01:00.000-08:00

Today, 08 March 2008 is International Women’s Day and is a global celebration for the achievements of women.

The first IWD was observed on 28 February 1909 in the US. A couple of years later, a fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in NYC killed 140 women.

Others say, the celebration starts much earlier in 1857 when women from clothing and textile factories staged a protest on 8 March in New York City. The workers were protesting against very poor working conditions and low wages. The protesters were attacked and dispersed by police. Two years later, these women established their first labor union.

The first international women's conference was held in Copenhagen in 1910. An 'International Women's Day' was established led by a German Socialist named Clara Zetkin. Next year, celebrations attracted over a million people in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland.

On the eve of World War I, women across Europe held peace rallies on 8 March 1913. In the West, International Women's Day was commemorated during the 1910s and 1920s. The rise of feminism led to bigger IWD celebrations in the 60s. Remember Jane Fonda?

Photo of Russian poster on IWD from Wikipedia. The red text reads: “8th of March is the day of the rebellion of the working women against the kitchen slavery". The grey text in lower right reads: “Say NO to the oppression and Babbittry of the household work!"

Last 2005, the McCann Erickson team in Vietnam organized a special event on IWD. It was a photo exhibit of Doan Duc Minh’s photos featuring women. The Exhibit was held for one week at the agency’s offices at 429 Vo Van Tan Street, District 3, HCMC. It was a fund-raising project that raised around US$2,000 for poor Vietnamese families.

Today, celebrations are spread across the globe. IWD local events can be viewed at www.internationalwomensday.com

Plus there is a celebration in Granwood Villas, somewhere in BF Homes Quezon City as it is also the birthday of a special woman friend, Marivic Pareja (seen in photo with her husband, Cesar Pareja during the taping of Mel & Joey at home). Marivic is our good friend for many years, even back when she and Cesar were still dating while Cesar was preparing for his bar exams. She would probably remember Puerto Galera?

Cheers to all the women in the world, specially blogosphere.

Wins in Ohio and Texas

2008-03-05T07:08:00.000-08:00

After 11 straight wins by Obama, Hillary Clinton made her presence felt and scored wins last Tuesday in Ohio and Texas. This is one of the last biggest challenges for both Obama and Clinton as they race neck to neck for the Democratic Party nomination.

No, I won’t vote in November but Chief and I have been following the US elections closely in CNN and through on-line news.

According to reports, Obama said, "We know this: No matter what happens tonight, we have nearly the same lead as we did this morning, and we are on our way to winning the nomination." Still confident.

Clinton, hoping to become the first female president in the US told backers in Ohio, "As Ohio goes, so goes the nation. Well, this nation's coming back and so is this campaign. People of Ohio have said it loudly and clearly: We're going on, we're going strong and we're going all the way." Photo by Carolyn Cole of the Los Angeles Times.

Despite the weather, voters responded and made their strong presence felt in record numbers

There is no problem on the Republican side as Arizona senator, John McCain, would surely clinch the Republican nomination. He received the endorsement of President Bush. But that could work against him specially with the war on Iraq a big issue.

Closer to home, people are slowly making their presence felt on the streets and that would be another blog.

Chief's Presence

2008-03-02T18:24:00.000-08:00

Today is one of the most important days for the most important person in my life and our lives at our Greenhome, here in Makati City. Photo of Chief taken at Disneyland last December 2007.

But real challenge today or rather this birthday month… is finding a nice little birthday celebration for us. Yup, today is Chief’s birthday… but it is a weekday and guess, we would be tied up with agency work.

Today, am giving her a blouse which I bought from Singapore, plus a skirt made by Mai from HCMC, which I had made for Cecile last year. Am missing out of the roses this year, unlike back in Vietnam, it was easy to make a call and have roses delivered at McCann Erickson or our first Greenhome at Tran Nhat Duat.

At least we have the Camigiun vacation to look forward to!

A Great Way To Fly

2008-02-27T02:21:00.000-08:00

I have always believed that if one wanted a great way to fly... there would only be two choices. Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific.

Last Monday, I took the SQ915 flight from Manila to Singapore, and again the flight crew of Singapore Airlines proved to many that SQ is still a great way to fly. Special thanks to the presence of Chie Hwee Chen who always took less than a minute to respond to my little needs like an extra glass of orange juice, a blanket and a complimentary deck of cards.

When Cecile and I went to Europe and the US last December 2003, we also took an SQ flight and was completely satisfied with the warm and extra friendly service of the flight crew. They were very attentive and always “on their toes.”

There was only a slight problem as some of the mileage was not credited but the did respond to our request. It only took some emails, back and forth, but otherwise, SQ is a great way to fly!

22 years ago

2008-02-24T22:43:00.001-08:00

Yup, there are people in the streets on this rainy Monday, but will their presence lead to change.

People at EDSA

2008-02-23T14:45:00.000-08:00

Together with other Filipinos, I was part of "people power" in EDSA back in February 1986.

Will there be a fourth version, given today's rising unrest against corruption and greed?

Clinton and Obama

2008-02-06T23:46:00.000-08:00

Super Tuesday was a fight between Obama and Clinton. And the challenge comes immediately after the New York Giants defeat the New England Patriots.

Am not an expert on U.S. politics, but am sure many of us in blogosphere have noticed (maybe, even annoyed) by the surge of presence of Obama and Clinton on-line and off-line.

Am not a US registered, but am following with interest their presence, specially, on late night TV. Jay Leno, David Letterman and other hosts have all earned dollars out of the political presence. Am sure there is some research available that counts the number of late night jokes which have mentioned Barack Obama or Hillary Clinton.

Barack Obama has sure gone a long way from his childhood days in Hawaii and even in Jakarta, and now as Illinois senator. I remember during the last DNC, he was already seen as an “up and coming” politician. By the way, he too is a Leo, being born in the month of August. Only 5 days earlier than me. He had written two bestselling books, “Dreams from My Father” which is a memoir of his youth and “The Audacity of Hope,” a personal commentary on U.S. politics.

Hillary Clinton (born October 26, 1947), brings her experience as former First Lady (from 1993 to 2001) to Bill Clinton, the 42nd President of the United States and as Senator from New York since 2000. And the first female senator from the Big Apple.

When Cecile and I had lunch with my cousins (Renelle, Patrick and Ben) and Tita Nenen in New Jersey, a few weeks ago, politics was part of the discussion. The table seemed divided.

Whoever the DNC picks out in November, either will be a milestone candidate and even a “first-ever” president (granting he or she defeats Sen. McCain).

The results of Super Tuesday had both Clinton or Obama close to each other.

Is is youth versus experience? Promises against solutions?

We Wanted It More

2008-02-03T20:11:00.000-08:00

Guess, the hungrier team would really win, as the New York Giants won over the New England Patriots in today's Superbowl game held at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale Arizona.

NY Giants 17, New England 14

Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images shows Quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants holds the Vince Lombardi Trophy after defeating the New England Patriots 17 - 14 in Super Bowl XLII

Am again sure that my cousins cheered and are celebrating their hometown team in the East Coast. Bring out the red wine Patrick!

The victory over the Patriots was an upset win as the Giants broke the unbeaten record of the Patriots throughout the season. The Giants also celebrated their 11th straight victory on the road. They had lost earlier which probably inspired the team harder for its third Super Bowl and sixth NFL title.

Photo by GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP/Getty Images shows New York Giants Kevin Dockery (R) catches the ball against the New England Patriots at the University of Phoenix Stadium

The Giants became the first NFC wild card team to win a Super Bowl; four AFC teams have done it. They also are the second team in three years to play nothing but away games and come away with the big prize; Pittsburgh did after the 2005 season.

The Patriots, led by Tom Brady, the league's Most Valuable Player and winner of his first three Super Bowl, had their first unbeaten season in 35 years broken.

Roofs closed

2008-02-03T17:13:00.000-08:00

While it is bright and sunny this Monday morning here in Makati City, there is forecast of rain in Arizona. Thus, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell ordered University of Phoenix Stadium's retractable roof closed for the big game between the New York Giants and New England Patriots for the Super Bowl on Sunday.

Photo by Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)shows Quarterback Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots leading his teammates onto the field against the New York Giants for Super Bowl XLII.

News reports from Associated Press say it is the 13th time the Super Bowl has been played indoors. Two of New England's first three Super Bowl victories came in domes -- a 32-29 victory over Carolina in Houston's Reliant Stadium in 2004 and a 20-17 win over St. Louis in New Orleans' Superdome in 2002

Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images, shows the New York Giants run onto the field against the New England Patriots during Super Bowl XLII at the University of Phoenix

As of halftime, the Patriots are leading the Giants with a score of 7 – 3. Am sure my cousins, Renelle, Patrick and Ben are watching the game in New Jersey.

XLII things to expect on Super Bowl Sunday

2008-02-03T05:39:00.000-08:00

When we were in NYC last December, we had the option to watch the New York Giants and New England Patriots game, but we found the tickets expensive. 100 dollars but tickets were sold out.

With the game this weekend, here is XLII things to expect from the game, written by Michael Ventre, from the www.msnbc.com website.

1. After the game, Tom Brady will receive another marriage proposal — from Robert Kraft.

2. At halftime, security will be given instructions to keep Justin Timberlake away from Tom Petty’s nipples.

3. The Mannings — Archie, Peyton and Eli — will be presented with a special award commemorating the fact that they have now endorsed every product ever produced since time began.

4. During the postgame celebration, Randy Moss will be told he can have his extension. He will then ask, “Contract or restraining order?”

5. Bill Belichick will refuse to disclose whether he will use a Canon or Nikon spy camera during the game.

6. Gisele Bundchen and Abby McGrew will meet and chat and discover that they have absolutely nothing in common except the fact that they’re both dating Super Bowl quarterbacks.

7. The 1972 Miami Dolphins will be unhappy after the Patriots go undefeated, but they’ll pop champagne anyway because they have nothing else to do these days except drink.

8. Michael Strahan will have no impact on the game whatsoever, but he’ll make it sound later as if he should have been named MVP.

9. Tom Brady will be named Super Bowl MVP, but he’ll decline the trophy, explaining, “I don’t have any more room for it.”

10. Tiki Barber will try to use the fact that Eli Manning wasn’t able to lead the underdog Giants to a history-making upset of the unbeaten Pats as evidence that he was right about Eli all along.

11. Wes Welker will catch everything that is thrown to him, but will be denied access to the Patriots’ postgame lockerroom because security guards will refuse to believe he’s with the team.

12. Rodney Harrison will become the first player in Super Bowl history to be accused of a dirty hit during pregame warm-ups.

13. Brett Favre will be interviewed during the game and announce that he isn’t ready to make an announcement.

14. Brady and Giselle will agree to meet at her apartment in New York City after the Patriots win to have a little “Super Tuesday” of their own.

15. At one point early on, the officials will stop the game and huddle to discuss the issue, “What the heck kind of a name is Plaxico?”

16. What appears to be another racy GoDaddy.com Super Bowl television commercial turns out instead to be a short documentary on Pacman Jones.

17. Most TV analysts dismiss the Giants and give them no chance at all of pulling an upset, until they are reminded that Jeremy Shockey is not with the team.

18. The local Phoenix utilities company reports a massive disruption in service that threatens the game as the result of talk radio shows from across the country all unplugging at the same time at the league’s media headquarters.

19. Junior Seau will admit to his teammates during a pregame meeting that it isn’t right for a 39-year-old man to go by the name “Junior.”

20. Tom Coughlin will use a photo of his face from the NFC title game in Green Bay to remind his players about red-zone efficiency.

21. Jessica Simpson will attend the game wearing a specially designed jersey with Patriots’ colors and No. 12 on the front and Giants’ colors and No. 10 on the back. She will then be asked to leave by both teams.

22. The Giants will make a formal request to Tom Petty that he please play “I Won’t Back Down” instead of “Free Fallin’.”

23. Commissioner Roger Goodell will slip up during postgame ceremonies and refer to Bill Belichick as “Hoodie Boy.”

24. Randy Moss will catch everything that is thrown to him. But because he will be double-teamed, only one pass will be thrown to him.

25. Pregame introductions will take so long, they will have an intermission.

26. Because the Super Bowl will be held at University of Phoenix Stadium, everyone in attendance will receive a free online degree.

27. Matt Leinart will arrive for the game accompanied by Wilmer Valdarrama, Nick Lachey and Danny Masterson but will be denied entry and told at the gate, “Sorry, sir. We don’t have a C list.”

28. Daniel Snyder, disguised in a referee’s uniform, will be whisked away by security after he attempts to interview both Bill Belichick and Tom Coughlin for the Redskins’ head coaching position.

29. Deion Sanders will question why LaDainian Tomlinson isn’t in the game until he’s informed that he isn’t a member of either team.

30. In the Giants’ owner’s luxury box, a member of the team’s hierarchy will tell the bartender, “I’ll have a brewski,” and as a result the team will be charged by the league with tampering.

31. Several Giants defenders will sack Tom Brady at once. When the officials pull apart the pile, they will discover that Brady is missing. But soon they will locate him wedged in the gap in Michael Strahan’s teeth.

32. The NFL will ask the Air Force if they would mind trailing advertising banners behind their jets during the pre-game flyover.

33. Steve Smith of the Giants will be referred to as a young Wes Welker.

34. The best Super Bowl commercial will be the one with a cute real-life or animated animal. And there is a 50-50 chance it will also feature Peyton Manning.

35. Don Shula will be turned away after he tries to enter the stadium carrying a large sign with an asterisk on it.

36. Tony Romo will be seen walking outside the stadium wearing a sandwich board promoting the Mexican tourism bureau that says, “I went South during the playoffs. Why don’t you?”

37. “American Idol” winner Jordin Sparks will sing the national anthem. Fox will then defend itself from charges that it will do just about anything for a ratings bump by saying, “Well, at least we didn’t get somebody from ‘America’s Most Wanted.’

38. Joe Buck and Troy Aikman, two level-headed broadcasters with experience and wisdom who offer reasonable opinions and analysis, will call the game. Fox officials will hold an emergency staff meeting to discuss how something like that could be allowed to happen.

39. The good news is that the massive amount of beer consumption across the nation during the Super Bowl will provide a much-needed boost to our ailing economy. The bad news is that most beer drinkers paid for all that beer by taking out more subprime loans.

40. Jon Corzine, the governor of New Jersey, will offers 100 pounds of fresh Garden State tomatoes in his traditional wager on the Giants with his Massachusetts counterpart. Deval L. Patrick, governor of Massachusetts, will counter by saying, “How about 10 million bucks?”

41. Because Fox will want to recoup some of the losses it incurred because of the writers’ strike by selling extra commercial time, the game will last until Valentine’s Day.

42. The first question out of a network interviewer’s mouth to either Tom Brady or Bill Belichick: “Can you repeat undefeated?”

John Rambo

2008-02-02T05:37:00.000-08:00

While in Powerplant Mall last Sunday, Cecile and I bumped into Rommel Cecilio. He had gained some weight but is already a proud father. And like our friends, he was extra happy for catching us on “Mel & Joey” last November, plus even more surprised to see himself in the group photo of “Artistang Artlets.”

We would have wanted to chat with Rommel but we were rushing to catch the 4th edition of the Rambo series. This time the movie is called “John Rambo” and Sly Stallone actually had a hand in writing the script and directed this movie. based on the characters created by David Morrell in his novel “First Blood.”

There have been four editions. First Blood (1982), Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985), and Rambo III (1988) and the 4th which was released on January 25, 2008.

The movies chronicles the life of John Rambo, a troubled Vietnam War veteran, whose survival skills, weaponry, hand-to-hand combat and guerrilla warfare, has brought him to many wars and conflicts.

In this movie, John Rambo lives a simple life in a rural Thai village near the Burmese border. He catches fish and snakes. Rambo’s help is sought by a group of fellow missionaries so they can bring food and medicine to the Karen tribe members. These people are seen raped, tortured and massacred by soldiers, which is actually happening in that country.

Initially Rambo refuses but is latter convinced by Sarah Miler (Julie Benz), the only female in the group. Rambo brings them into Burma. The humanitarian mission goes well until the village is attacked. Many villagers are killed. Sarah and the missionaries are kidnapped by the Burmese army. The pastor Athur Marsh (Ken Howard) from the missionaries' church comes to Thailand and informs Rambo that he has hired mercenaries to rescue the group and needs Rambo to transport them up river again.

With Rambo’s help, the mercenaries rescue all the missionaries and Rambo cuts down the Burmese general trying to escape.

In the final battle, Rambo using a machine gun opens fire on the Burmese soldiers holding the missionaries hostage. The ensuing battle is long and extremely graphic.
Total body count is 236, more than previous movies.

And in the last scene, Rambo back in the United States, walks past a farm and a mailbox with the name R. Rambo on it. Slowly, John Rambo makes his way down the driveway of the farm and has returned home.

There are talks of a 5th movie. A civil war in Africa?

Photos courtesy of Lionsgate.

Captain's Presence

2008-01-27T23:47:00.000-08:00

The Top 20 Sci-Fi Starship Captains of All Time, according to Kunochan.com, are as follows:

1. Jean-Luc Picard (Star Trek: The Next Generation)
Guess, Patrick Stewart’s voice commands a presence like no other with so much authority and respect. It is like having Shakespeare on-board. From, 1987 to 1994, Captain Picard led the Federation flagship Enterprise-D through strange new worlds and discovered new life forms. His character is a highly intelligent man prefers to peacefully resolve disputes rather than fight.

2. James T. Kirk (Star Trek)
James Tiberius Kirk is the 1st captain of the Enterprise on TV from the original Star Trek television series. The character was played by Canadian-born actor William Shatner. Today, producer J. J. Abrams will give new life to Kirk in the upcoming 2008 Star Trek film. Gene Roddenberry is said to have based the character on C. S. Forester's fictional hero Horatio Hornblower. Today, Shatner sometimes refers to Kirk in the series “Boston Legal” where he plays an aging lawyer, named Denny Crane.

3. Han Solo (Star Wars)
In the mid-70s, I first saw Han Solo in the 1st version of Star Wars, which is now chronologically called “The Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope.” Solo is a roguish smuggler who is in debt and gets involved with Luke Skywalker and the Rebel Alliance against the evil Galactic Empire. Harrison Ford became an icon out of this role.

4. Kathryn Janeway (Star Trek: Voyager)
I never really did follow “Star Trek: Voyager” where Kate Mulgrew plays Kathryn Janeway. She is the first female to be the lead character in a Star Trek series and is the captain of the Federation starship USS Voyager. According to Wikipedia, the character was originally to be named "Elizabeth Janeway" after the famous poet.

Kate Mulgrew, who had previously auditioned for the role, was brought in as replacement for Geneviève Bujold who dropped out on the second day of production for the pilot episode, “Caretaker.” The character name was changed to Kathryn upon the earlier request of Geneviève Bujold

5. Malcolm Reynolds (Firefly)
Malcolm "Mal" Reynolds is from Firefly and is played by actor Nathan Fillion. Reynolds is the captain of the Firefly-class spaceship Serenity with a mission to keep his crew alive and to keep his ship flying. I really have not seen much from this series. Maybe, soon.

Other captains in the top 20 list are:

6. William “Husker” Adama (New Battlestar Galactica)
7. Bruno J. Global (The Super Dimension Fortress Macross)
8. Turanga Leela (Futurama)
9. Jacob Keyes (Halo)
10. John J. Adams (Forbidden Planet)
11. Wilhuff Tarkin (Star Wars)
12. Christopher Pike (Star Trek)
13. Creideiki (Startide Rising)
14. David Bowman (2001: A Space Odyssey)
15. The Doctor (Doctor Who)
16. Zaphod Beeblebrox (Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy)
17. Exeter (This Island Earth)
18. John Robinson (Lost in Space)
19. Adama (Old Battlestar Galactica)
20. Khan Noonien Singh (Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan)

Dancing Classroom

2008-01-27T17:26:00.000-08:00

I spent 30 minutes on the threadmill while watching the start of the dancing classroom at Fitness First.

Sharapova and Djokovic

2008-01-27T17:21:00.000-08:00

Both made their strong presence at the Australian Open this weekend,as they emerged as champions in the 1st tennis grand slam event of the year.

Heath Ledger

2008-01-23T21:46:00.001-08:00

We first watched Heathcliff Andrew Ledger in the Mel Gibson film, “The Patriot.” And also in “Four Feathers” which one of my favorite movies as it epitomizes a strong friendship. That was many years ago. And he probably became even more popular in the award winning Ang Lee film “Brokeback Mountain.” And that movie, we never really got to watch. Maybe, now with the death of Heath Ledger, we will finally get to see that movie.

But before that we will definitely see his presence at the Joker in the latest Batman flick, “The Dark Night.”

The Academy Award-nominated Australian actor was born on April 4, 1979 and died yesterday in his apartment in the upscale SOHO district. I was telling Cecile that we were in that area during our recent trip to the States last December 2007.

Here are a few interesting trivia from Wikipedia about Heath’s short presence in this world. His name and his sister, Kate were named after the two main characters in Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights, Heathcliff and Catherine. At age 10, Peter Pan was his first acting experiences was in a school production.

In 1996, he already played a gay role in an Australian TV series called “Sweat.”

From August 2002 to April 2004, Ledger had a relationship with actress Naomi Watts, whom he met during the filming of “Ned Kelly.”

On the set of “Brokeback Mountain,” Ledger met actress Michelle Williams, whom he met on the set of Brokeback Mountain. Their daughter, Matilda Rose, was born on October 28, 2005 in New York City.

Did you know that Ledger had aspirations to become a film director? In 2006, Ledger directed three music videos and during a news conference at the Venice Film Festival in 2007, he spoke of his desire to make a film about the British troubadour Nick Drake who died tragically young at the age of 26 in 1974. As a first step, he created and appeared in a short film set to Drake's recording of his 1974 song about depression titled "Black Eyed Dog".

In 2007, he was one of six actors to portray different sides of singer Bob Dylan in the film “I'm Not There.”

On July 18, 2008, Ledger will his presence felt as the iconic comic book villain The Joker in “The Dark Knight.” This is the sequel to the 2005 film “Batman Begins,” opposite fellow “I'm Not There” star Christian Bale.

We will surely watch "The Dark Knight."