Philippine Headline News Online

Nonito Donaire Wins Over Fernando Montiel

2011-02-20T08:21:00.001+04:00

Nonito Donaire won against Fernando Montiel in todays boxing fight Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, in Las Vegas.

Montiel receives a devastating left hook punch from the Nonito "The Flash" Donaire that led to a TKO.

In the last few years, Donaire has been one of boxing’s biggest stars, possibly the biggest in the lower weight classes, while Montiel has been under the radar a bit because of lack of television exposure.

It was no doubt for me that Donaire will win this fight. :)

Juana Change Porsche Youtube Video

2011-02-01T21:21:00.000+04:00

Mae Paner aka Juana Change - the hit YouTube, which has campaigned for candidates of Benigno Aquino III in 2010 - now stars in a video mocking the president himself for buying a second-hand Porsche.

In the video, Jane change is having an argument with ordinary people on the decision of President Aquino to purchase of a "third hand" Porsche. Critics have criticized the initiative for its "insensitivity" in the face of widespread poverty.

“Que third hand, que second-hand, first-hand nating ibinigay sa kanya ang posisyon niya bilang Pangulo ng Pilipinas! Aba, ang sabi niya, bayan muna bago ang sarili (It doesn’t matter if the car is third-hand, second-hand, first hand. Our votes for him were first-hand! He said he will put the nation first before himself)," Juana Change says in the video.

In the video, a student cites Republic Act 6713 or Code of Ethical Standards for Public Officials, which states that public officials should have simple lifestyles.

Juana Change, however, said in a press statement that that she is neither severing ties with nor withdrawing support for the Aquino administration.

Prime suspect in Venson Evangelista Murder, Wants Police Custody

2011-01-24T11:52:00.000+04:00

Raymond Dominguez voluntarily surrendered to police custody in Bulacan yesterday while waiting for the results of the preliminary investigation for the cases that will be filed against him. Along with him was his mother who is worried and afraid about her son's safety.

Raymond and Roger Dominguez were named mastermind by Alfred Mendiola, the first suspect who was arrested by the police.

PNP says there’s strong case vs ‘Dominguez Group’

2011-01-24T11:32:00.000+04:00

Philippine National Police (PNP) said Monday that it has strong case against members of the notorious "Dominguez Group" tagged brutal kidnap-murder of car dealer Venson Evangelista.

PNP spokesman Chief Superintendent. Agrimero Cruz Jr. cited physical evidence and testimony against members of the band, led by Raimundo Dominguez.

"We have witnesses and evidence to prove that they have something to do with the case Evangelista," Cruz said during a radio interview.

Police on Friday raided suspected safe house the cooperative is a group of carjacking Pampanga, where authorities recovered weapons and evidence that the alleged driving Evangelista and at least 15 pairs of number plates, among other items.

Cruz said police are still in follow-up operations.

On Saturday, the PNP Special Working Group Research (SITG) headed by Chief Superintendent. Benito Estipona filed criminal charges against nine members of the Dominguez carjacking.

Apart from Raymond Dominguez, also were charged with his brother, Roger Alfredo Mendiola, Fernando Parula a Joel, an alias Jayson and Rolly, which was labeled as the shooter in the murder Evangelista. Two other suspects were not identified.

Sitges The PNP filed charges against murder and carnapping the nine suspects before the Quezon City prosecutor.

Of the defendants, Raymond Dominguez, Parula Mendiola and sole custody. Dominguez voluntarily sought police custody on Saturday, hours after the arrest of Mendiola and reported in the province of Bulacan Parul.

Dominguez immediately denied any involvement in the case of Evans.

Evangelista has disappeared Jan. 14 after an alleged road test of Toyota Land Cruiser, somewhere in Quezon City to a potential buyer. His charred body was found four days later in the city of Cabanatuan.

Before the kidnapping-murder of Evangelista, another car dealer, Lozano Emerson, with his driver SENSIL Ernani, was reported missing Jan. 12 after meeting with a potential buyer of his truck Kia Carnival also in Quezon City.

Two days later the body was burned SenSil recovered in La Paz, Tarlac. The charred body Lozano, a son of the lawyer Oliver Lozano, was discovered the next day in Porac, Pampanga.

The police authorities have expressed their belief that the abduction-murder of Evangelista and Lozano was a craft group.

SC Acquits Hubert Webb in Vizconde Massacre Case

2010-12-14T16:38:00.000+04:00

The Supreme Court today acquitted former senator’s son Hubert Webb and six others in connection with the celebrated Vizconde massacre case which happened in 1991.

“The prosecution failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt the guilt of the accused,” court administrator and spokesman Jose Midas Marquez said.

Marquez said seven justices who voted for the acquittal are questioning the quality of the prosecution’s main witness.

“Jessica Alfaro is an NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) agent, not really an eye witness,” Marquez said.

“There were also suspicious details showing inherent inconsistencies, all corroboration cannot be relied on…In all, there is reasonable and lingering doubt on the guilt of the accused,” Marquez said.

The court also acquitted Antonio Lejano II, Michael Gatchalian, Miguel Rodriguez, Peter Estrada, Hospicio “Pyke” Fernande convicted for the 1991 murders.

Marquez said Joey Filart and Artemio Ventura who were never arrested and have been at large are not part of the acquittal.

“No proceedings were held against them,” Marquez said.

The high court ordered the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) to release all the accused as soon as possible.

He added that Biong, who was convicted as an accessory to the crime, is also acquitted because he was specifically pointed by the government witness as the one who allegedly covered the tracks of Webb’s group.

No motion for reconsideration can be filed.

"No MR can be filed otherwise it is tantamount to double jeopardy."

Manny Pacquiao Wins 8th World Title via Unanimous Decision

2010-11-14T10:11:00.000+04:00

The best boxer in the world has won once again, as Manny Pacquiao put on a brilliant fighting display, defeating Antonio Margarito in dominant fashion on Saturday night in Dallas.
At the outset, it was impossible not to notice the significant size difference between the two: At 5-foot-11 Margar...ito is five inches taller than Pacquiao, and HBO said Margarito weighed 17 pounds more than Pacquiao when both stepped on the scale on Saturday night.

But once the action started, it was impossible not to notice the significant advantage in hand speed of Pacquiao: His punches were a blur, and Margarito was simply powerless to react.
By the end of the fifth round, Margarito's right eye was almost swollen shut. By the end of the 10th, both of Margarito's eyes were a mess. Pacquiao buzzed around the ring with ease and peppered Margarito's face with punches whenever he wanted to hurt his outclassed opponent.
It would have been completely reasonable for Margarito's corner or the referee to stop the fight early, but Margarito insisted he wanted to keep going, and he was allowed to take a beating for 12 rounds.

By the end, Pacquiao looked like he may have been taking some sympathy on Margarito and easing up, rather than following through and potentially seriously hurting Margarito.
"I did my best to win the fight," the soft-spoken Pacquiao said afterward. "I can't believe it. He's very tough and strong. I never expected that."
The judges scored it 120-108, 118-110 and 119-109 for Pacquiao.

I scored it 120-108 for Pacquiao, who said after the fight that he slowed down a bit in the final rounds because he felt sorry for Margarito.
"I felt pity to my opponent, looking in his eyes and his bloody face," Pacquiao said.

The win improves Pacquiao's professional boxing record to 52-3-2. Margarito falls to 38-7. The only question now is whether anyone can challenge Pacquiao: Everyone wants to see him fight Floyd Mayweather Jr., but if that fight can't happen, can anyone challenge Pacman?
"That's my promoter's job," Pacquiao said of questions about his next fight. "I'm just a fighter and I'll do my job."

The fight was not without controversy: Many boxing observers didn't believe Margarito even should have been licensed for the bout because in his last fight in the United States he was caught attempting to put a hard substance in his hand wraps. On Saturday night, it was Margarito's corner that accused Pacquiao of applying tape to his hands improperly, while Pacquiao's trainer, Freddie Roach, accused Margarito of taking a banned substance that could clear his system before the post-fight drug test.
But all of that controversy seems fairly irrelevant in the face of what happened in the ring: This was Pacquiao's night to shine, and to show once again that he's the best.

Is Philippines on State of War? No!

2010-09-27T12:34:00.000+04:00

Is Philippines on State of War? During the 2nd Association of South East Asian Nation (ASEAN) in New York last weekend, the Philippine Flag was displayed upside down with the red being on top. Now what does this mean for most Filipinos? This means that when the blue and red stripes were switched, it indicate a state of war.

But the question is with whom? With no one because it was an honest mistake according to Rebecca Thompson, the US Embassy Spokesperson.

"This was an honest mistake. The U.S. treasures its close relationship and close partnership with the Philippines which were demonstrated this past week during President Aquino’s trip to the U.S., with the signing of the MCC Compact, the US-ASEAN meeting, and the meeting of our two Presidents that followed it. "

Manny Pacquiao Fighting Pride Theme Song Video with Lyrics

2010-09-20T12:00:00.006+04:00

Fighting Pride, Manny Pacquiao'sofficial theme song. Fighting pride (lyrics, video below) was launched on the web a few days ago, a collaboration with singer Madonna Decena and rock band "Rag Rag" a.k.a.Nugroovz whose band members namely Norbert Gayanilo ( lead guitarist) and the three Scottish-Filipino Ragrag brothers Chris (keyboards), Glen (vocals) and Michael (drums).The song was recorded in a studio Palms Resort in Las Vegas in March and launched online on Tuesday.

Video Source: The National

"Fighting Pride" lyrics

Intro words by Manny Pacquiao:

Deliver me from this fight
To honor You and my country

Drum of War (Intro Theme)

Verse:
He stays a humble guy
From Sarangani Mindanao
His passion is in the ring

He never talks trash
Speaks through his mighty hand
He will dispose off anyone

Bridge:
Approach Roach to coach (He's got the heart of gold)
The rise of the greatest champ (Rising Manny is our champ)
The crowd they're going wild
They love his exciting fights

Chorus:
Pacquiao!, Number one pound for pound
Pacquiao!, Faster than the speed of light
Pacquiao!, You're gonna fear for your life

Pacquiao!, Filipino fighting pride
Pacquiao!, Power punch when he strikes
Pacquiao!, Knocks you out to terminate

Rap:
La Cucaracha that created dinamita
All the legends in the ring have lost a big problema
De La Hoya, threw in the towel
So he better change his name to golden girl the Mexicana
Understand that Filipino number 1
Pacman the one, will be the only one,
Smash you to the ground, taking all the crown.
Pound for pound!, round for round!,

No wonder Erik, Morales got knocked out
Marco Antonio Barrera got knocked out
Ricky Hatton can't believe he got knocked out
He was messin with the best, he went down like the rest

Did Mariel Rodriguez Badmouth Toni Gonzaga?

2010-09-20T11:00:00.001+04:00

Although Toni Gonzaga refused to divulge the exact reason of her rift with Mariel Rodriguez, talks are rife among showbiz circles about unverified details behind it.

Mariel-who has long been friends with Toni-is said to have been referring to the latter as ''duling'' (cross-eyed), Pinoy Parazzi wrote on Sept. 17.

A confrontation is said to have ensued when Toni learned about the alleged badmouthing, presumably from fellow Kapamilya star Anne Curtis, who supposedly told Toni about what Mariel said. Mariel was tongue-tied when confronted about it, the report added.

However, a slightly different version of the story was aired on DZMM radio program ''Showbiz Mismo'' last Sept. 17. One of the hosts, Jobert Sucaldito, said that according to his source, there was an instance when Toni's co-host on ''The Buzz,'' KC Concepcion, told her about her realization that she [Toni] is not a difficult person to deal with at times. Toni is said to have learned that the impression came from Mariel.

Jobert also related the scenario involving Anne Curtis. In his source's version, though, Mariel is said to have denied both instances to Toni when the latter clarified the matter.

As Toni hinted in her most recent interview, there were three instances that hurt her, supposedly because of Mariel. The third, she noted, was the last straw. ''Hindi ko na kinaya,'' she was quoted as saying.

Even with these reports, one cannot conclude if the instances sighted indeed led to the fracture of the two's ''tried-and-tested'' friendship (as Toni described during a past interview with Bulletin Entertainment). Mariel, on her part, has opted for silence in this latest controversy (as said by an ''E-Live'' report on Sept. 18), save for a short message she sent via KTXT on Sept. 17:

''The truth shall prevail'' and ''Less talk, less mistakes.''

Caught in between the conflicting parties is their other best friend, Bianca Gonzales. During the ''E-Live'' episode, the TV host said her piece on the issue with three profound points:

''First, sad as it may be, yes, totoo, hindi sila in good terms ngayon.

''Second wala talaga siyang kinalaman do'n sa movie (the Toni Gonzaga-Robin Padilla project which was shelved at the height of the latter's blooming romance with Mariel). I mean hindi 'yun 'yung cause. Parang hindi naman ganun kaliit na reason 'yung magiging downfall ng friendship na 'to, for now.

''And third, I always say this, sa lahat ng nagmamahal, both kay Toni and kay Mariel, please wag na kayong mag-imbento ng Team Toni or Team Mariel. Sana hindi magkampihan 'yung mga tao. Kasi if you do know the whole story, alam mo na pareho silang tama sa mga nararamdaman nila at pareho silang walang masamang ginawa. 'Yon I can honestly, honestly say.''

Bianca appealed for the public to give both Toni and Mariel time and space. ''In time kapag nagkaharap sila, for sure, magbabati 'yan,'' she said.

UP Pep Squad Wins 2010 UAAP Cheerdance Competition

2010-09-12T15:08:00.003+04:00

UP Pep squad won the 2010 UAAP cheerdance competition today.

UAAP Cheerdance Competition 2010 Results:

Champion: University of the Philippines (UP) Pep Squad
1st runner-up: The Far Eastern University (FEU) Cheering Squad
2nd runner-up: University of Santo Tomas (UST) Salinggawi Dance Troupe
Samsung Stunner Award: Nikka de Dios(DLSU)

PNP Chief Takes Blame For Bus Hijack

2010-09-05T14:39:00.003+04:00

The chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Jesus Verzosa took the blame for the bus hijacking rescue attempt last week that killed 8 tourists from Hong Kong in Qurino grandstand.

"As chief of the national police, I take responsibility and accountability of all Philippine National Police (PNP) units and all police personnel in everything they do or failed to do," Jesus Verzosa said in a statement on Sunday.

"It is now time to move forward and start anew. Rest assured that the national police will continue its sworn duty to serve and protect as well as render credible, effective and reliable service to the public," he said.

Last Friday, President Benigno Aquino took responsibility for the deaths of tourists.

President Aquino Admits Responsibility on Hostage Taking Incident

2010-09-05T14:24:00.003+04:00

President Noynoy Aquino admits responsibility for tragic hostage taking incident 2 weeks ago. After a series of finger pointing and unfinished investigation going on, Philippine President Benignon Aquino III took responsibility for hostage taking which killed 10 citizens of Hong Kong.

“At the end of the day, I am responsible for everything that has transpired,” Aquino said in an interview with reporters in Manila.

President Aquino III also explained the roles of DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo and Undersecretary Rico Puno. The two are being grilled in an ongoing investigation regarding the incident, Robredo however is part of the investigating panel headed by DOJ Secretary Leila Delima.

Aquino said that Robredo was tasked with strengthening the Local Government Units (LGUs) while Puno is tasked with handling the police and security. With this pronouncement the blame is effectively transferred to Puno who is tasked and responsible for incidents like this.

It would be a courageous act for the President of the Philippines to take responsibility however Chinese and Hong Kong officials are demanding far more than that, they wanted a public apology from the Philippine government.

BIR Files USD120m Case Against Philippine Businessman

2010-09-02T09:01:00.003+04:00

It was reported that Bureau of Internal Revenue or BIR has filed a case against a Philippine businessman for non-payment of PHP5.5bn (USD121.4m) in taxes.

The BIR, under its Run After Tax Evaders (RATE) programme, has charged Macario Lim Gaw, Jr. wth evading the payment of correct income tax in 2007 and 2008, and for wilful failure to supply correct and accurate information in his income tax return in 2008, thereby under-declaring his income. He is also accused of wilful failure to file value-added tax (VAT) returns for the 2008 tax year.

Gow was said to have purchased property in 2007 and 2008 for a total amount of PHP4.1bn and sold it for PHP8.4bn eight months later. The BIR believes that Gaw misclassified the property sale as a sale of "capital assets", when it should have been sales of ordinary assets, and thereby paid only 6% capital gains tax rather than 32% income tax and 12% VAT due on a sale of ordinary assets.

Gaw is required to pay the BIR PHP5.5bn total of unpaid taxes, fines. Gaw is the fifth taxable BIR office to evaluate the program this year.

Animation Video Of The Hostage Taking

2010-08-26T14:48:00.006+04:00

A video animation of what could have happened inside the bus during the hostage crisis in Manila last Monday was uploaded on YouTube. by a user named leon137 which has a title "Recreated Video of hostage bus drama in Philippines, Manila."

The video which now has 14,340 views is a 1:57 minute animated video showing the dismissed police officer Senior Inspector Rolando Mendoza brandished his M-16 rifle and shot some hostages after he watched a footage on TV.

The TV footage Mendoza saw was most likely the live news reports which showed how his brother, Senior Police Officer 2 Gregorio Mendoza, was arrested by officers of the Manila Police Department on suspicion of being an accomplice of his brother.

Jason Leung, 18, who suffered from head injuries in the skull and is now in the Intensive Care Unite is believed to be the man in the video who was sitting beside the window and was hit in the head by a sledgehammer..

One of the hostages, a man, has been shown in the video behind Mendoza, in an apparent attempt to stop him. Mendoza, instead he turned and shot him. This man has landed on top of a woman, probably his wife. Suppose Leung Kam Wing (Ken Leung) and his wife.

Ms. Leung has survived the hostage crisis and was seen crying as he was led out of the bus by police. Later, Ms. Leung said her husband was sacrificed for others on the bus.

Miss Philippines 2010 Answer in Miss Universe

2010-08-24T22:43:00.004+04:00

Although it has been a favorite in the Miss Universe beauty pageant, Miss Philippines 2010 has Venus Raj to impress the public because his answers were evasive and diplomatically ignored the question. Maybe she did not like this? Anyway Miss Philippines finished fourth in the Miss Universe 2010 contest held at the Mandalay Bay Casino Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Venus Raj is a gorgeous woman, she sure looked like she could handle a simple question like William Baldwin’s: “What is one big mistake that you made in your life and what did you do to make it right?” It didn’t sound too bad, did it? Well, the 22-year-old beauty queen must have been too nervous to think about a good answer for this question and ended up saying pretty much nothing at all.

She thanked the audience, she thanked William for the question, she even thanked her parents for her success but her answer was evasive and obviously skipped the question. Miss Philippines 2010 Venus Raj told William Baldwin and the audience: “Thank you so much sir for that wonderful question. Good evening ladies and gentlemen. Good evening Las Vegas. You know what sir, in my 22 years of existence, I can say there is nothing major major, I mean problem that I have done in my life because I am very confident with my family with the love that they are giving to me so thank you so much that I am here. Thank you thank you so much.”

Before that time, Miss Philippines seemed to take the initiative to score line as they had a score of 3.55, which is very good. Miss Universe 2010 was crowned Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete, a beauty 22 years of Guadalajara.

You can watch Miss Philippines 2010 answer on the video below.

HK Furious After Hijacks Deaths

2010-08-24T22:15:00.005+04:00

Around the world, Philippines headline news was all about the hostage taking in Manila yesterday. Today, the Philippines recognized the deficiencies "in the treatment of the hostage crisis that killed eight tourists from Hong Kong, as anger over the failed negotiations broke on Tuesday in Hong Kong, with demonstrations and harsh words.

A harrowing picture emerged of the victims - a mother of three children who lost their husband and two daughters, a teenager unconscious of the death of his parents and a guide that aims to become a teacher of yoga.

Philippine President Benigno Aquino III, facing his first major crisis since taking office on June 30, declared Wednesday a national day of mourning in solidarity with the people of Hong Kong to "share their sorrow," his spokesman Edwin Lacierda said.

Officials promised a full investigation into how the hijacker — a former policeman demanding his job back — was able to gun down eight of the 15 Hong Kong hostages on board the bus before a sniper killed him and officers were finally able to get into the vehicle. Seven other hostages survived the final bloodbath, which came after a 12-hour standoff at a seaside Manila park.

Philippine Interior Secretary Jessie Robredo, who is in charge of the national police, acknowledged Tuesday there were problems with how the crisis was handled.

"Had we been better prepared, better equipped, better trained, maybe the response would have been quicker despite the difficulty," Robredo said.

He added, "All the inadequacies happened at the same time."

Philippine police had defended their actions — pointing out that officers lacking proper equipment had risked their lives in trying to bring the standoff to an end. But they promised to review all events leading to the deaths.

In Hong Kong, sorrow quickly evolved into outrage, with several of the semiautonomous Chinese territory's political parties leading protesters to the Philippine Consulate.

Demonstrators chanted, "You caused the deaths of Hong Kongers," and one protester scuffled with a security guard.

"We think the Philippine government used the wrong strategy. We think the operation failed," pro-Beijing legislator Lau Kong-wah told reporters.

Several Hong Kong newspapers printed mastheads in black, and flags in the territory flew at half-staff.

"Filipino police incompetent," Hong Kong's Ming Pao Daily News said in a front-page headline.

The Hong Kong-based Asian Human Rights Committee added its voice to demands for an explanation, but also was "deeply concerned by people who are trying to blow this incident out of proportion" and who might vent anger through retaliatory attacks against thousands of Filipinos who work there, mostly as maids.

"This tragedy should not become a conflict of nationalities," it said in a statement.

Aquino on Tuesday met Chinese ambassador Liu Jianchao and phoned Hong Kong leader Donald Tsang to brief them on the investigation into the crisis that started when a dismissed police officer armed with a M16 rifle and a pistol seized a busload of 21 Hong Kong tourists and four Filipinos to demand his reinstatement on the force.

The ordeal ended in bloodshed on live TV with police storming the bus and killing the gunman, 55-year-old Rolando Mendoza, after he fired at the tourists.

Of the 25 people originally on the bus, 13 of the Hong Kong tourists and four Filipinos survived. Nine of the survivors had been freed by Mendoza hours before the gunfire began.

Britain's Foreign Office said Tuesday that two of the hostages who were released were British nationals.

At the scene of the standoff, family of two dead hostages attended a Buddhist memorial ceremony Tuesday.

Weeping parents with monks walked around the bus, sprinkling water around the car riddled with bullets. Survivor Amy Ng mourned the death of her husband, Ken Leung, who said she confronted the man, and Doris and daughters Jessie, 21 and 14 years his son, Jason, was still in hospital after a operation on a head injury.

"I thought I would fight for survival so I could take care of my children, but two of them have already died," a sobbing Ng said Tuesday.

A bedridden, catatonic Tracey Wong told Hong Kong reporters she hid under a seat in the bus while Mendoza fired at the hostages.

"I want to find daddy and mommy quickly and see if they're OK," the 15-year-old said. But Hong Kong's radio RTHK reported that both her parents were among those killed, identifying her father as 51-year-old Wong Tze-lam.

Tour operator Hong Thai Travel Services general manager Susanna Lau praised a slain tour guide, 31-year-old Masa Tse, for his vigilance and decade-long service. TV footage showed him peeking out of the bus during his captivity and later one hand handcuffed to a position near the bus door.

Tse had studied yoga in India and wanted to become an instructor, Hong Kong's Cable TV reported, citing his friends. His Facebook page was flooded with messages of condolences. "I know you did your best to protect members of your tour group. You were very brave. Rest in peace. I will always miss you," friend Tulip Lam wrote.

Hong Kong has canceled tours to the Philippines and asked Hong Kong tourists still in the country to leave.

Philippine Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim said the crisis would likely damage the industry. About 140,000 Hong Kong tourists come annually.

"I'm hoping it will be forgotten soon enough," he said in a Manila hospital, where some of the former hostages were treated.

"We will try to improve ourselves and assure the Hong Kong government and the rest of the world that we will be able to handle matters much better in the future," he said.

Hostage Taking in Philippines Is Over

2010-08-23T17:18:00.002+04:00

Dismissed policemen who held over 20 foreign tourists hostage for close to 12 hours was killed by sniper fire, according to a television report.

It was not clear whether there were survivors from those taken hostage Monday by Senior Inspector Rolando Mendoza who demanded his reinstatement after he was dismissed on drug-related offenses, which he denied.

Bursts of gunfire were heard from inside the tourist bus as lawmen have gone to the backdoor to force it open in the hope of seizing Mendoza and rescuing his hostages, footage on GMA Network showed.

A bystander, identified as a 10-year-old boy, was hurt following the gunshots and was brought to the hospital for treatment, according to the television report.

A police car moved closer while members of the raiding team continued to break into the back of the vehicle, video showed.

Ambulances have surrounded the bus.

The law enforcers initially broke the windows and tried to enter the front door of the stalled bus but were stopped by gunshots coming from inside.

Mendoza seized the tourist bus with over 20 Chinese nationals early Monday morning in Manila to demand his reinstatement into the force.

Mendoza was dismissed due to drug-related offenses but he denied the charges.

Hostage Taking In Manila

2010-08-23T15:55:00.002+04:00

A dismissed police officer took hostage this morning a bus full of people, mostly tourists from Hongkong.

Sniper shots were fired Monday night near the bus where a hostage-taking incident was taking place, according to a live report on GMA News "24 Oras."

The driver of the bus, who was earlier reported handcuffed to the steering wheel, escaped moments after the shots were fired.

The shots forced media men covering the hostage crisis to scamper for safety, said GMA News anchor Mike Enriquez in his report.

In a separate report, Raffy Tima said the shots were fired after the bus showed signs of driving off where it was parked in front of the Quirino Grandstand in Luneta Park.

The shots were also fired minutes after SPO2 Gregorio Mendoza, brother of hostage-taker former Senior Inspector Rolando Mendoza, was arrested by elements of the Manila Police District (MPD).

Nine of the more than 20 passengers of the bus, most of them Chinese tourists, had already been released and are now undergoing stress debriefing.

You can watch it now live on ANC.

Willie Revillame Resigns from ABS-CBN

2010-08-12T00:48:00.003+04:00

Day before yesterday, I've heard that the former host of Wowowee made press conference about his decision of resigning from ABS-CBN kapamilya network.

Here is what Revillame said during the conference.

"Ako po ay nagpapaalam na sa ABS-CBN. Tinatapos ko na po ang kontrata ko sa ABS-CBN na naging kapamilya ko."

Ito ang buod ng mensahe ng controversial TV host na si Willie Revillame sa presscon na ipinatawag niya kaninang tanghali, August 9, sa Annabel's restaurant sa Tomas Morato, Quezon City.

Punung-puno ang main hall ng venue ng press, TV crew, mga abugado, at supporters ni Willie. Bukod sa legal counsels ni Willie na sina Atty. Leonard de Vera at Atty. Ferdinand Domingo, nagpakita rin ng suporta kay Willie ang Team Pacquiao, sa pangunguna ng business manager ni Congressman Manny Pacquiao na si Mr. Eric Pineda; ang big boss ng Viva Entertainment na si Mr. Vic del Rosario; ang columnist at TV host na si Cristy Fermin; ang singer-composer na si Lito Camo; ang dating aktres na si Daisy Romualdez; at ang talent manager na si Annabelle Rama.

Bago magtanong ang press kay Willie ay ikinuwento muna niya ang mga kaganapan bago siya nauwi sa desisyong tapusin na ang kontrata niya sa ABS-CBN.

"Pinag-isipan ko ho 'tong mabuti, ipinagdasal ko at ako po'y nakipag-usap sa mga taong talaga namang nagmamahal sa akin, kapamilya ko, sa mga kaibigang malalapit sa akin, at sa akin pong mga pinagkakatiwalaang abogado, at sa akin pong pinagkakatiwalaan sa business po ng industriya," simula ng TV host.

Ayon kay Willie, babalik na siya dapat sa Wowowee noong July 31, 2010. Pero nagulat na lamang siya nang mabago ang usapan at palitan ng panibagong programa ang kanyang noontime show.

"Marami na pong pag-uusap na nangyari, naghanda na po kami," sabi niya. "Magsisimula po ako sa unang pangyayari dahil ako po'y humingi na naman ng tawad sa pangyayari, nung unang pangyayari na ako'y umalis sa Wowowee. Tinanggap naman po 'yon ng buong pamunuan ng ABS-CBN.

"Noon pong bago mag July 10, si Ms. Linggit Tan, ang production head po ng ABS-CBN, she's been texting me at siya po'y tumawag sa 'kin para mag-usap. Dahil po nung mga panahon na 'yon, parang ayaw ko na ho sanang lumabas sa telebisyon muna. Sabi ko, aayusin ko muna yung sarili ko kung bakit nangyayari sa akin 'tong ganito."

THE FIRST MEETING. Ang unang meeting nila ay nangyari nga noong July 10, 2010, Sabado ng hapon, sa bahay ni Willie sa Tagyatay. Nagkataon daw kasing may event doon sa Tagaytay ang mga business unit head ng ABS-CBN. Kasama rin daw sa meeting na iyon ang business unit head ng Wowowee na si Jay Montelibano, ang abugado ni Willie na si Atty. Domingo, at ang kaibigan niyang si Roy Reyes.

"Ang napag-usapan po namin nila Ms. Linggit Tan ay yung pagbabalik ko ng July 31 sa ABS at sa Wowowee," sabi ni Willie. "Napag-usapan na po naming lahat kung ano ang mga bagong segment, kung ano po ang gagawin sa bagong programa...bagong mga games po. At the same time, ibinigay ko yung mga ideas ko sa mga bagong games. Meron akong mga sinabi sa kanila 'ganito ang gawin natin, 'eto ang gawin natin.' Okay naman po yun. Meron akong mga segments na sinabi... 'Gusto ko yung '1-2-3 Go!' Meron akong sinabi na 'Spin A Wheel'...so, mas marami.

"At the same time, nakipag-usap na rin po ako sa pamunuan ng ibang mga sponsors para magbigay ho ng bahay at lupa. Para sa araw-araw na pagbalik ko, gusto ko mas maraming matulungan at mas maraming mapasayang kababayan natin. Ibinigay ko sa kanila yung concept. Pati yung music, pinadinig ko lahat. That was July 10."

Dagdag niya, "Pagkatapos po ng pag-uusap namin, okay na ang lahat, naging kampante na ako. Nai-announce na 'ata sa staff na ako'y babalik na at naging masaya ang staff. Naging okay naman ho sa feedback."

THE SECOND MEETING. Pagkatapos ng meeting ni Willie kay Ms. Linggit ay nakipag-meeting din siya sa mismong Presidente ng ABS-CBN na si Ms. Charo Santos-Concio. Naganap ang meeting nina Willie at Ms. Charo sa opisina ng huli noong July 13 (Tuesday). Kasama rin sa meeting na iyon ang dating manager ni Willie na si Arlene de Castro, misis ni dating Vice President Noli de Castro; ang creative director ng Wowowee na si Edgar "Bobot" Mortiz; at si Ms. Linggit ulit.

"So, napag-usapan po dun yung pong sinasabi nilang babalik na ako, okay na lahat," sabi ni Willie. "Binanggit na ni Ma'am Charo lahat ng mga ideas, okay naman sa kanya. Sabi nga niya, 'Ngayon, dapat mas maganda na, mas marami tayong mapasaya, matutulungan sa pagbabalik mo.'

"Ibinigay ko na rin po yung concept nung bagong mga games. Kung ano yung napag-usapan namin ni Ms. Linggit, yun din ho ang napag-usapan namin at napagkasunduan namin ni Ma'am Charo at sa mga kasama namin do'n, ni Direk Bobot, ni Miss Linggit Tan.

"Sa pagkakaalam ko ho, tapos na ang lahat, magbabalik na ako [sa Wowowee] ng 31," patuloy ng TV host. "Pagkatapos po no'n, nag-akapan pa kami ni Ma'am Charo. Sinabi po ni Ma'am Charo na, 'Galingan mo, okay na.' 'So, Ma'am Charo, puwede na ba akong makipag-meeting sa aking mga staff?'

"After ng meeting ko po sa opisina ni Ma'am Charo, ipinatawag naman yung core group ng Wowowee—ang aming head writer, ang aming business unit head, the EP, the writers at yung mga set decorators. At the same time, nag-meeting na ako with the staff. At sabi namin, confidential, para hindi muna magulo yung mga staff.

"So, napagkasunsuan po na babalik na ako sa July 31," ulit ni Willie. "Sa July 31 pong yun, naghanda, excited na ang lahat. Ako po'y nag-isip na ng mga bagong... Lumapit na rin po ako sa Vista Land para magbigay ng labindalawang bahay, ibinigay naman po sa akin ng Vista Land. Lumapit naman po ako sa mga sponsors na madadagdagan ko pa yung saya at papremyo sa bagong gagawin naming Wowowee.

"Sa lahat po ng 'yon, after ng meeting ko kay Ma'am Charo, pinag-isipan ko na. Ako po'y nag-isip munang lahat kung ano yung gagawin ko para mas maganda yung programa. At ang balak ko sa opening, napakaganda po ng opening, dun sana ako magsasalita at hihingi sana ako ng paumanhin kung ako man ay may nasaktan at may na-offend sa ating mga kababayan sa huling pangyayari.

"Ganon naman ang buhay, e, nobody's perfect, lahat," dagdag ni Willie. "Lunes hanggang Sabado ho ang trabaho ko sa Wowowee, alas-nuwebe ng umaga hanggang gabi. Wala na akong panahon sa sarili ko, Linggo lang. Sa Linggo, tumatawag pa ako sa staff ko kung nakakita ako ng bagong music, ibibigay ba yung music. My life, ang buhay ko po, ay Wowowee na.

"February 5, 2005 nagsimula po ang Wowowee, wala naman akong sakit sa puso, wala naman akong sakit sa ulcer... Hindi ko sinisisi ang Wowowee. Ang sinasabi ko lang, sa sobrang pagmamahal ko po sa programa ng bawat Pilipino na Wowowee, e, medyo napabayaan ko na yung sarili ko.

"So, yun po ang isa sa rason din sa buhay ko kung bakit nandito rin ako sa inyo. Gusto kong malaman n'yo na talagang ibinuhos ko ang buhay ko, magpasaya ng tao every day."

THE THIRD MEETING. Nang akala ni Willie na ayos na ang lahat para sa pagbabalik niya sa Wowowee, nakatanggap siya ulit ng mensahe mula kay Ms. Linggit Tan noong July 20, Tuesday.

Kuwento ni Willie, "Tinext muna niya 'ko, tinawagan ko siya. 'Puwede ba tayong mag-usap?' sabi niya sa text. Tinawagan ko, sabi ko, 'Bakit, ano pag-uusapan?' May kaba na ako, may nararamdaman na akong kaba. Sabi ko, 'Hindi ako puwede bukas ng Wednesday, ngayong araw na 'to na lang.' So, nag-meeting kami sa Imperial Suites sa isang kuwarto roon."

Present din daw sa meeting na 'yon sina Jay Montelibano at Bobot Mortiz.

"Sabi ko, 'Ano'ng pagmi-meeting-an natin? Alam ko, ayos na lahat.' Ang sabi niya [Ms. Linggit] sa akin, 'Okay lang ba sa 'yo na once a week ka na lang sa show?' Parang nagulat ako. 'O kaya, magkaroon ka na lang ng show sa Studio 23?' Parang lahat po ng mga inisip kong idea, lahat ng pinaglaanan ko ng panahon na ipagbubuti ko 'tong Wowowee ay nawala, naglaho, nung sinabi sa akin 'yon. Ang tanong ko sa kanya, 'Bakit? Ano'ng nangyari?' 'Well,' ang sabi niya, 'marami pang may ayaw sa 'yong bumalik ka.'

"I have to be honest, sasabihin ko lang yung katotohanan," diin ni Willie. "Hindi ho ako naninira at never kong sasabihan ng masama ang ABS dahil nabago ng ABS-CBN ang buhay ko, at malaki ang utang na loob ko kay Mr. [Gabby] Lopez, at sa mga namumuno po ng ABS-CBN. Wala ni isang salita na masama na ginawa sa akin ng ABS. Ang sinasabi ko lang po, yung event na nangyari kung bakit hindi na ako nakabalik sa ABS, sa Wowowee.

"So, nung sinabi niya sa akin 'yon, sabi ko, 'Napakasakit ng ginagawa n'yo sa akin kasi nagsara na tayo, nag-usap na tayo, tapos sasabihin mo sa akin na hindi ako tanggap,' at marami pa raw e-mails na ayaw pa akong pabalikin.

"Ngayon, nando'n ho sa harap namin si Jay, ang tanong ko sa kanya: 'Jay, kamusta ba ratings ng Wowowee? Ano'ng ratings n'yo?' Umabot na sa single digit—9 percent—ang ratings. 'Kamusta ang pila n'yo?' 'Kuya, wala na pong pumipila, naghahakot na kami ng tao.' Sabi ko, 'Linggit, 'eto ba ang inaayawan ng tao?'

"Kasi ang punto ko, kung ayaw sa akin ng tao, dapat nag-rate na ng bente mahigit 'yan. Kasi nung umalis ho ako sa Wowowee, nasa 22 [percent] po ang ratings ng Wowowee... Hindi ko pinagmamayabang na noong nandon ako, e, mataas ang ratings, hindi ho. Ang ibig kong sabihin, ganyan ho kamahal ng publiko, ng buong mundo ang programang 'yan kasi binibigyan ko ng importansiya ang bawat Pilipino sa programang 'yan.

"Doon lang ako nagtataka na after that meeting, iba na ang programa, nagkaroon na ng bagong noontime show," pahayag ni Willie.

Ang tinutukoy ni Willie na "bagong noontime show" ay ang Pilipinas, Win Na Win! na nagsimulang umere noong July 31—ang petsa kung kailan sana babalik siya sa Wowowee. Ang Pilipinas Win Na Win! ay hinu-host nina Kris Aquino, Pokwang, Mariel Rodriguez, Valerie Concepcion, at Kris Aquino.

WILLIE'S DECISION. "So, from that time," patuloy ni Willie, "nagdesisyon na ho ako agad. 'Eto na ang panahon para magdesisyon ako sa buhay ko. Ang gusto ko lang gawin sa buhay ko, magpasaya araw-araw. Sa sarili ko, kung kaya kong makatulong sa mga kababayan nating kapus-palad, gagawin ko 'yon. Kung sabi n'yo nag-iba na, mayabang na, never ho akong naging mayabang. Nagiging tooo lang ako sa inyong lahat, 'yan ho ang katotohanan."

At dito na nga idineklara ni Willie ang kanyang desisyon na magpaalam at tapusin na ang kanyang kontrata sa ABS-CBN.

"Ngayon, sa araw hong ito, sa inyong lahat sa mata ng bawat Pilipino, sa buong mundo, lahat dito, para na lang po sa kapakanan ng lahat, sa mga taong nahihirapan din sa sitwasyon ng ABS CBN sa aking pagbabalik. Ako na ho ang gagawa ng paraan para lang hindi sila mahirapan. Ako po ay nagpapaalam na sa ABS-CBN. Ako po ay tinatapos ko na ang kontrata ko sa ABS-CBN na naging kapamilya ko.

"Wala po akong masasabing masama sa kanila. 'Eto lang po ay sarili kong desisyon para makapag-move on na po at makagawa po ako ng programa ko para sa sarili ko at gusto ko. Hindi na po ako puwedeng magkaroon ng isang show na once a week dahil sa kontrata ko po, sa pagkakaalam ko, every day po ang aking dapat gagawin hanggang September 2011.

"Basta ngayon po, sa araw na ito, sa sarili ko, nagpapaalam na po ako sa ABS-CBN, at tapos na po ang kontrata ko sa kanila. Thank you," saad ni Willie.

Kris Aquino Files Annulment Case

2010-08-12T00:39:00.002+04:00

Philippines queen of talk show Kris Aquino files annulment case. Kris wants her marriage to a popular pro basketball player annulled according to her lawyers. James Yap's celebration for his Most Valuable Player (MVP) award on Wednesday was spoiled by an attempt to serve him papers for the nullification of his marriage to Kris Aquino.

An ABS-CBN News source said that several court officials, led by the sherriff of the Makati Regional Trial Court (RTC), were spotted outside the Araneta Coliseum waiting for Yap.

The officials were reportedly there to serve the basketball star the petition filed by Aquino to nullify their marriage.

However, Yap was not able to receive the petition, since he was able to leave the Araneta Coliseum quickly.

The court officials declined to give a statement.

In a phone interview, Yap said he was surprised by the presence of the court officials there. He said he was not aware that there were people from the Makati Regional Trial Court (RTC) waiting for him at the Araneta Coliseum.

According to the entertainment website, pep.ph, Kris filed her petition for the declaration of nullity of marriage at the Makati RTC last Monday, August 9.

Aquino, meanwhile, was advised by her lawyer to not speak about the issue.

However, in her Twitter account, Kris said: "No matter how brave u try to be, a breakup is painful. Quoting again from my love iphone app- when u break up, your whole identity is shattered. It's like death. True, it's hard to get to know myself all over again as just me & no longer part of a couple."

Pag-ibig contribution mandatory to all OFW

2010-08-02T10:21:00.003+04:00

Filipinos are now required to contribute to the Pag-Ibig fund if they intend to work abroad.

Based on a Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) directive, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) will be charged fees to be able to get their Overseas Employment Certificate. POEA’s Memorandum Circular 06, the mandatory coverage to the Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF) or Pag-IBIG Fund, which took effect yesterday, Sunday, August 1, involves a membership fee of P600 to be paid by the workers upon deployment.

The amount will cover 6 months. Thereafter, the workers will pay a monthly due of P100.

Those already working abroad will automatically be covered by the directive.

A rights group for Filipino migrants however hit the mandatory membership, saying OFWs are already saddled by several charges.

“Before it is only optional, not mandatory, thus giving OFWs and their dependents leeway to choose which is better, appropriate, and practical considering the family's priority, to get a housing loan from Pag-Ibig or just gradually built their own house from their earnings,” said John Leonard Monterona, Migrante-Middle East regional coordinator.

Besides the Pag-Ibig mandatory contribution, the OFW is also required to pay P1,164 for membership in the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, P900 contribution to the Philippine Health Insurance Corp., and an additional P100 processing fee, he said.

“This is on top of other fees and charges imposed by the government and the placement fee collected by recruitment agencies,” he added.

Pag-Ibig however defended the move, saying the contribution should not be considered an additional tax.

In 2 years time, the worker will already be able to tap a loan from Pag-Ibig, Senior Vice President for Operations Alex Aguilar said.

Lawsuit will be filed against resigned PAL pilots

2010-08-02T10:15:00.001+04:00

The president of Philippine Airlines (PAL) today said that management is considering suing 25 Filipino pilots who resigned en masse, leading to cancellations of 11 flights over the weekend.

In an interview, PAL President Jaime Bautista said the 13 pilots and 12 first officers were ordered to return to work in 7 days or face criminal and administrative charges. He said PAL has 150 flights a day, adding the cancellation of 5 flights alone meant a serious dent on daily operations.

"They resigned without complying with the 180-day notice. Flights are scheduled for 6 months and we need enough pilots to man the flights. The reason for the 180-day notice is to have the chance to get replacements and ensure that the flights leave on time," he said in an ABS-CBN "Umagang Kay Ganda' interview.

He said that in the case of the recent resignations "some pilots would file their resignations today and not show up for work the next day."

"We have 150 flights a day. Just 5 canceled flights can affect up to 5,000 people," he said.

On Monday, PAL management canceled 4 domestic flights due to lack of pilots. The 4 cancelled flights as of 8 a.m. are: including Manila-Iloilo (PR 147), Iloilo-Manila (PR 148), Manila-Bacolod (PR135), and Bacolod-Manila (PR136).

Better pay

Bautista admitted the flag carrier is losing accredited pilots to startup airlines who offer better pay.

"Other airlines can afford to pay higher salaries as they don't have to train. It costs P10 million to train pilots from the start to the point they become captain. Startup airlines who hire pilots that they don't have to train get substantial savings on training expenses," he said.

Pilots who undergo PAL training are required to stay with the company for at least 5 years. Bautista said of the 25 resigned pilots, only 2 have complied with the contract. "We hope that they return. We will give them a few days to return especially those who haven't left the country," he said.

He said accredited PAL pilots currently have an estimated P100,000 monthly basic pay, with an average productivity pay of P250,000. He said pilots could earn as much as P500,000 a month including benefits.

Redundacy?

A PAL pilot who resigned from the company in May said he chose to resign as the company began cutting-back on its pilots citing redundancy.

"I couldn't wait for the termination notice. I have a family to take care of. Some pilots were being made to resign and sign documents that said they were redundant. They had the choice to accept termination or be moved to the air team where salaries were lower," he said.

Bautista, however, denied ever forcing their pilots to resign.

"We don't have redundant regular pilots. Sometime in March, there was a slowdown in the airline industry and we decided to ground two planes. When you cut down on flights, you need less pilots but that does not mean they're taken out. We need more pilots specially when airline traffic normalizes, as was the case when the airline industry went on rebound in April. We need to keep hiring pilots," he said.

Impact on tourism

Speaking on ANC's "Headstart," Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim voiced reservations on the potential impact to the country's tourism industry if the labor dispute was not immediately resolved.

"This is a basically a labor dispute between management and employees. I only hope that its not going to prolong the dispute because if its a prolonged dispute then our image as a destination would be affected," Lim said.

"Hopefully, we will be able to come up with a resolution, so that the riding public is not inconvenience and the economy does not suffer because what is an inter-company dispute," President Benigno Aquino III said on Sunday.

A public duty

Capt. Amado Soliman, president of the Air Safety Foundation of the Philippines, said that while the pilots' reasons for leaving may be legitimate, they still have a responsibility to the public.

"Pilots are not like ordinary workers. They have a responsibility to the public. And the airline industry is a public utility. If you stop working, there must be a 30-day notice and pilots should honor their contracts. It would be unfair to the public if they just walked out," he said.

He said the matter should be threshed out by both PAL management and the resigned pilots.

PAL Spokesman Jonathan Gesmundo said PAL officials will meet with the pilots who left the airline on Wednesday.

PAL crew hit with resignations

But PAL appears headed for more problems. Even flight crews are reportedly warning to launch a labor strike, if PAL management refuses to heed their demands for a salary increase.

The PAL Flight Attendants' and Stewards' Association of the Philippines is complaining of unfair labor policies. The group's president, Bob Anduiza, said some airline staff have already left the country.

"The 747 staff has been reduced. Instead of 18 there are only 16 staff members, many have resigned because there is no job security. they are applying for work in other countries," he said.

The case of the flight crews is still pending at the National Labor Relations Commission.

Probe into PAL retrenchment

Meantime, the Anak-Pawis partylist filed a resolution at the House of Representatives, seeking an inquiry into the airline company's move to retrench some 2,600 employees.

"This is meant to understand the circumstances surrounding the issue and why 2,600 employees stand to be affected. We have to make sure that the right of workers is not being violated," Anakpawis party-list Rep.Rafael Mariano said.

Cory Aquino's first death anniversary

2010-08-02T10:08:00.003+04:00

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XB Gensan was Grand Champion and Showtime First Season Grand Finals Results

2010-07-25T00:58:00.001+04:00

MANILA, Philippines – Hard work, determination and a second chance to show off their talents proved to be the winning combination for the dance crew of General Santos City as they beat 10 other contestants in the first Showtime Grand Finals on Saturday.

XB Gensan was named as the Champion in the contest dubbed as the “Ultimate Showdown” held at the Yñares Sports Center in Antipolo City.

The group earned an average score 9.875 and received P1 million as cash prize.

The other groups received the following average scores—Kasibulan, 7.375; Perlas ng Silangan, 8.575; Mortal Combat and the Showgays, 9.3; Beat Guyz, 7.325; Sensei, 8.1; Savannah Kids Ballroom Dancers, 8.775; Philippine Islands Assassin, 9.7; Enlighten Black Theater Group, 9.425; E-Crew, 8.575; and Boyz Unlimited Dancers, 9.625.

“Gamit ang puso sa pagsasayaw. Noong una akala namin di na kami makakabalik,” said one of the XB Gensan members before the group started their routine.

Another member expressed how proud they are that a group was going to represent Mindanao.

“Tunay na talent na galing GenSan saka yung tunay na pagkakaisa ng grupo,” said the group.

With 10 other groups that vied for the title and the prize, XB Gensan vowed to give it their all.

“Hindi namin alam kung makakaya namin. Ang sa amin lang, ibuhos ang lahat. Maraming salamat po sa second chance na ibinigay nyo sa amin,” they said.

After their dance routine, XB Gensan was overwhelmed by the cheers and support they received from the crowd and even from the judges.

“Alam ninyo, mahirap humakot ng fans dahil napakalayo ng pinanggalingan ninyo. Pero nakita ninyo ang response sa inyo ng tao! Alam ninyo guys, masyadong emosyonal yung ginawa ninyo dahil galing iyan sa puso. Pakinggan nyo ang sigaw ng tao!” said one of the judges, Jong Hilario.

“Alam ng buong Mindanao, ng buong Pilipinas at ngayon sa buong mundo na kayo ang dapat manalo ngayong araw na ito,” Hilario added.

Another judge, Vice Ganda, could not help himself but be proud of the XB Gensan dance crew.

“Sobrang ipinagmamalaki ko kayo dahil ito pong grupong ito ay natalo na, pinabalik, pinagpursigihan, nanalo ulit at heto na sila ngayon,” Vice Ganda said.

It can be recalled that the group was eliminated but was given another chance to prove their talent during the Wild Card Round. The said round gave a second chance to groups which brought amusement to the Madlang Pipol but failed to advance beyond the monthly finals.

“Isang malaking pagpapaalala sa ating lahat na never use your failures yesterday as an excuse for you not to do better and strive more today,” Vice Ganda said.

Joining the popular talent show was never easy for the group. They saved what little money they had just to try and give it a shot in Manila.

For them, the experience proved to be not only worthwhile, but actually a dream come true.

“Salamat sa lahat! Proud to be an XB Gensan,” the group said.

President Benigno S. Aquino Inaugural Speech

2010-06-30T09:23:00.000+04:00

Inaugural Speech of President Benigno S. Aquino III in English

His Excellency Jose Ramos Horta, Former President Fidel V. Ramos, Former President Joseph Estrada, Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and members of the Senate, House Speaker Prospero Nograles and members of the House, justices of the Supreme Court, members of the foreign delegations,Your Excellencies of the diplomatic corps, fellow colleagues in government, aking mga kababayan.

My presence here today is proof that you are my true strength. I never expected that I will be here taking my oath of office before you, as your president. I never imagined that I would be tasked with continuing the mission of my parents. I never entertained the ambition to be the symbol of hope, and to inherit the problems of our nation.

I had a simple goal in life: to be true to my parents and our country as an honorable son, a caring brother, and a good citizen.

My father offered his life so our democracy could live. My mother devoted her life to nurturing that democracy. I will dedicate my life to making our democracy reach its fullest potential: that of ensuring equality for all. My family has sacrificed much and I am willing to do this again if necessary.

Although I was born to famous parents, I know and feel the problems of ordinary citizens. We all know what it is like to have a government that plays deaf and dumb. We know what it is like to be denied justice, to be ignored by those in whom we placed our trust and tasked to become our advocates.

Have you ever been ignored by the very government you helped put in power? I have. Have you had to endure being rudely shoved aside by the siren-blaring escorts of those who love to display their position and power over you? I have, too. Have you experienced exasperation and anger at a government that instead of serving you, needs to be endured by you? So have I.

I am like you. Many of our countrymen have already voted with their feet - migrating to other countries in search of change or tranquility. They have endured hardship, risked their lives because they believe that compared to their current state here, there is more hope for them in another country, no matter how bleak it may be. In moments when I thought of only my own welfare, I also wondered - is it possible that I can find the peace and quiet that I crave in another country? Is our government beyond redemption? Has it been written that the Filipino’s lot is merely to suffer?

Today marks the end of a regime indifferent to the appeals of the people. It is not Noynoy who found a way. You are the reason why the silent suffering of the nation is about to end. This is the beginning of my burden, but if many of us will bear the cross we will lift it, no matter how heavy it is.

Through good governance in the coming years, we will lessen our problems. The destiny of the Filipino will return to its rightful place, and as each year passes, the Filipino’s problems will continue to lessen with the assurance of progress in their lives.

We are here to serve and not to lord over you. The mandate given to me was one of change. I accept your marching orders to transform our government from one that is self-serving to one that works for the welfare of the nation.

This mandate is the social contract that we agreed upon. It is the promise I made during the campaign, which you accepted on election day.

During the campaign we said, “If no one is corrupt, no one will be poor.” That is no mere slogan for posters -- it is the defining principle that will serve as the foundation of our administration.

Our foremost duty is to lift the nation from poverty through honest and effective governance.

The first step is to have leaders who are ethical, honest, and true public servants. I will set the example. I will strive to be a good model. I will not break the trust you have placed in me. I will ensure that this, too, will be the advocacy of my Cabinet and those who will join our government.

I do not believe that all of those who serve in our government are corrupt. In truth, the majority of them are honest. They joined government to serve and do good. Starting today, they will have the opportunity to show that they have what it takes. I am counting on them to help fight corruption within the bureaucracy.

To those who have been put in positions by unlawful means, this is my warning: we will begin earning back the trust of our people by reviewing midnight appointments. Let this serve as a warning to those who intend to continue the crooked ways that have become the norm for too long.

To our impoverished countrymen, starting today, your government will be your champion.

We will not disregard the needs of our students. We will begin by addressing the glaring shortage in classrooms and educational facilities.

Gradually, we will lessen the lack of infrastructures for transportation, tourism and trade. From now on, mediocre work will not be good enough when it comes to roads, bridges, and buildings because we will hold contractors responsible for maintaining their projects in good condition.

We will revive the emergency employment program established by former President Corazon Aquino. This will provide jobs for local communities and will help in the development of their and our economy.

We will not be the cause of your suffering or hardship. We will strengthen collections by the Bureau of Internal Revenue and we will fight corruption in the Bureau of Customs in order to fund our objectives for the public welfare, such as:

· Quality education, including vocational education, so that those who choose not to attend college or those who cannot afford it can find dignified livelihood;

· Improved public health services such as PhilHealth for all within three years;

· A home for every family, within safe communities.

We will strengthen the armed forces and the police, not to serve the interests of those who want to wield power with impunity, but to give added protection for ordinary folk. The armed forces and the police risk their lives daily so that the nation can live in peace and security. The population has doubled and yet their numbers remain unchanged. It is not right that those who make sacrifices are treated pitifully.

If there was a fertilizer scam in the past, today there will be security for farmers. We will help them with irrigation, extension services, and marketing their products at the best possible prices.

We are directing Secretary Alcala to set up trading centers that will directly link farmers and consumers thereby eliminating middlemen and opportunities for corruption. In this way, funds can be shared by farmers and consumers. We will make our country attractive to investors. We will cut red tape dramatically and implement stable economic policies. We will level the playing field for investors and make government an enabler, not a hindrance to business. This is the only means by which we can provide jobs for our people.

Our goal is to create jobs at home so that there will be no need to look for employment abroad. However, as we work towards that end, I am ordering the DFA, POEA, OWWA, and other relevant agencies to be even more responsive to the needs and welfare of our overseas Filipino workers.

We will strengthen the process of consultation and feedback. We will strive to uphold the constitutional right of citizens to information on matters of public concern.

We relived the spirit of people power during the campaign. Let it take us to good and effective governance. Those who believe in people power put the welfare of others before their own.

I can forgive those who did me wrong but I have no right to forgive those who abused our people.

To those who talk about reconciliation, if they mean that they would like us to simply forget about the wrongs that they have committed in the past, we have this to say: there can be no reconciliation without justice. When we allow crimes to go unpunished, we give consent to their occurring over and over again. Secretary de Lima, you have your marching orders. Begin the process of providing true and complete justice for all.

We are also happy to inform you the acceptance of Chief Justice Hilario Davide of the challenge of strengthening and heading a Truth Commission that will shed light on many unanswered issues that continue to haunt our country.

My government will be sincere in dealing with all the peoples of Mindanao. We are committed to a peaceful and just settlement of conflict, inclusive of the interests of all -- may they be Lumads, Bangsamoro or Christian.

We shalI defeat the enemy by wielding the tools of justice, social reform, and equitable governance leading to a better life. With proper governance life will improve for all. When we are all living well, who will want to go back to living under oppression?

If I have all of you by my side, we will be able to build a nation in which there will be equality of opportunity, because each of us fulfilled our duties and responsibilities equally.

After the elections, you proved that it is the people who wield power in this country.

This is what democracy means. It is the foundation of our unity. We campaigned for change. Because of this, the Filipino stands tall once more. We are all part of a nation that can begin to dream again.

To our friends and neighbors around the world, we are ready to take our place as a reliable member of the community of nations, a nation serious about its commitments and which harmonizes its national interests with its international responsibilities.

We will be a predictable and consistent place for investment, a nation where everyone will say, “it all works.”

Today, I am inviting you to pledge to yourselves and to our people. No one shall be left behind.

No more junkets, no more senseless spending. No more turning back on pledges made during the campaign, whether today or in the coming challenges that will confront us over the next six years. No more influence-peddling, no more patronage politics, no more stealing. No more sirens, no more short cuts, no more bribes. It is time for us to work together once more.

We are here today because we stood together and believed in hope. We had no resources to campaign other than our common faith in the inherent goodness of the Filipino.

The people who are behind us dared to dream. Today, the dream starts to become a reality. To those among you who are still undecided about sharing the common burden I have only one question: Are you going to quit now that we have won?

You are the boss so I cannot ignore your orders. We will design and implement an interaction and feedback mechanism that can effectively respond to your needs and aspirations.

You are the ones who brought me here - our volunteers - old, young, celebrity, ordinary folks who went around the country to campaign for change; my household help who provided for all my personal needs; my family, friends, colleagues at work, who shared, cared, and gave their support; my lawyers who stayed all hours to guard my votes and make sure they were counted; and the millions of Filipinos who prevailed, kept faith, and never lost hope - I offer my heartfelt gratitude.

I will not be able to face my parents and you who have brought me here if do not fulfill the promises I made.

My parents sought nothing less, died for nothing less, than democracy and peace. I am blessed by this legacy. I shall carry the torch forward.

My hope is that when I leave office, everyone can say that we have traveled far on the right path, and that we are able to bequeath a better future to the next generation. Join me in continuing this fight for change.

Thank you and long live the Filipino people!

Inaugural Speech of President Benigno S. Aquino III in Filipino

2010-06-30T09:20:00.000+04:00

His Excellency Jose Ramos Horta, Former President Fidel V. Ramos, Former President Joseph Estrada, Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and members of the Senate, House Speaker Prospero Nograles and members of the House, justices of the Supreme Court, members of the foreign delegations,Your Excellencies of the diplomatic corps, fellow colleagues in government, aking mga kababayan.

Ang pagtayo ko dito ngayon ay patunay na kayo ang aking tunay na lakas. Hindi ko inakala na darating tayo sa puntong ito, na ako’y manunumpa sa harap ninyo bilang inyong Pangulo. Hindi ko pinangarap maging tagapagtaguyod ng pag-asa at tagapagmana ng mga suliranin ng ating bayan.

Ang layunin ko sa buhay ay simple lang: maging tapat sa aking mga magulang at sa bayan bilang isang marangal na anak, mabait na kuya, at mabuting mamamayan.

Nilabanan ng aking ama ang diktaturya at ibinuwis niya ang kanyang buhay para tubusin ang ating demokrasya. Inalay ng aking ina ang kanyang buhay upang pangalagaan ang demokrasyang ito. Ilalaan ko ang aking buhay para siguraduhin na ang ating demokrasya ay kapaki-pakinabang sa bawat isa. Namuhunan na kami ng dugo at handang gawin itong muli kung kinakailangan.

Tanyag man ang aking mga magulang at ang kanilang mga nagawa, alam ko rin ang problema ng ordinaryong mamamayan. Alam nating lahat ang pakiramdam na magkaroon ng pamahalaang bulag at bingi. Alam natin ang pakiramdam na mapagkaitan ng hustisya, na mabalewala ng mga taong pinagkatiwalaan at inatasan nating maging ating tagapagtanggol.

Kayo ba ay minsan ring nalimutan ng pamahalaang inyong iniluklok sa puwesto? Ako rin. Kayo ba ay nagtiis na sa trapiko para lamang masingitan ng isang naghahari-hariang de-wangwang sa kalsada? Ako rin. Kayo ba ay sawang-sawa na sa pamahalaang sa halip na magsilbi sa taumbayan ay kailangan pa nila itong pagpasensiyahan at tiisin? Ako rin.

Katulad ninyo ako. Marami na sa atin ang bumoto gamit ang kanilang paa – nilisan na nila ang ating bansa sa kanilang paghahanap ng pagbabago at katahimikan. Tiniis nila ang hirap, sinugod ang panganib sa ibang bansa dahil doon may pag-asa kahit kaunti na dito sa atin ay hindi nila nakikita. Sa iilang sandali na sarili ko lang ang aking inaalala, pati ako ay napag-isip din — talaga bang hindi na mababago ang pamamahala natin dito? Hindi kaya nasa ibang bansa ang katahimikang hinahanap ko? Saan ba nakasulat na kailangang puro pagtitiis ang tadhana ng Pilipino?

Ngayon, sa araw na ito — dito magwawakas ang pamumunong manhid sa mga daing ng taumbayan. Hindi si Noynoy ang gumawa ng paraan, kayo ang dahilan kung bakit ngayon, magtatapos na ang pagtitiis ng sambayanan. Ito naman ang umpisa ng kalbaryo ko, ngunit kung marami tayong magpapasan ng krus ay kakayanin natin ito, gaano man kabigat.

Sa tulong ng wastong pamamahala sa mga darating na taon, maiibsan din ang marami nating problema. Ang tadhana ng Pilipino ay babalik sa tamang kalagayan, na sa bawat taon pabawas ng pabawas ang problema ng Pinoy na nagsusumikap at may kasiguruhan sila na magiging tuloy-tuloy na ang pagbuti ng kanilang sitwasyon.

Kami ay narito para magsilbi at hindi para maghari. Ang mandato ninyo sa amin ay pagbabago — isang malinaw na utos para ayusin ang gobyerno at lipunan mula sa pamahalaang iilan lamang ang nakikinabang tungo sa isang pamahalaang kabutihan ng mamamayan ang pinangangalagaan.

Ang mandatong ito ay isa kung saan kayo at ang inyong pangulo ay nagkasundo para sa pagbabago — isang paninindigan na ipinangako ko noong kampanya at tinanggap ninyo noong araw ng halalan.

Sigaw natin noong kampanya: “Kung walang corrupt, walang mahirap.” Hindi lamang ito pang slogan o pang poster — ito ang mga prinsipyong tinatayuan at nagsisilbing batayan ng ating administrasyon.

Ang ating pangunahing tungkulin ay ang magsikap na maiangat ang bansa mula sa kahirapan, sa pamamagitan ng pagpapairal ng katapatan at mabuting pamamalakad sa pamahalaan.

Ang unang hakbang ay ang pagkakaroon ng tuwid at tapat na hanay ng mga pinuno. Magsisimula ito sa akin. Sisikapin kong maging isang mabuting ehemplo. Hinding hindi ko sasayangin ang tiwalang ipinagkaloob ninyo sa akin. Sisiguraduhin ko na ganito rin ang adhikain ng aking Gabinete at ng mga magiging kasama sa ating pamahalaan.

Naniniwala akong hindi lahat ng nagsisilbi sa gobyerno ay corrupt. Sa katunayan, mas marami sa kanila ay tapat. Pinili nilang maglingkod sa gobyerno upang gumawa ng kabutihan. Ngayon, magkakaroon na sila ng pagkakataong magpakitang-gilas. Inaasahan natin sila sa pagsupil ng korapsyon sa loob mismo ng burukrasya.

Sa mga itinalaga sa paraang labag sa batas, ito ang aking babala: sisimulan natin ang pagbabalik ng tiwala sa pamamagitan ng pag-usisa sa mga “midnight appointments.” Sana ay magsilbi itong babala sa mga nag-iisip na ipagpatuloy ang baluktot na kalakarang nakasanayan na ng marami.

Sa mga kapuspalad nating mga kababayan, ngayon, ang pamahalaan ang inyong kampeon.

Hindi natin ipagpapaliban ang mga pangangailangan ng ating mga estudyante, kaya’t sisikapin nating punan ang kakulangan sa ating mga silid-aralan.

Unti-unti din nating babawasan ang mga kakulangan sa imprastraktura para sa transportasyon, turismo at pangangalakal. Mula ngayon, hindi na puwede ang “puwede na” pagdating sa mga kalye, tulay at gusali dahil magiging responsibilidad ng mga kontratista ang panatilihing nasa mabuting kalagayan ang mga proyekto nila.

Bubuhayin natin ang programang “emergency employment” ng dating pangulong Corazon Aquino sa pagtatayo ng mga bagong imprastraktura na ito. Ito ay magbibigay ng trabaho sa mga local na komunidad at makakatulong sa pagpapalago ng kanila at ng ating ekonomiya.

Hindi kami magiging sanhi ng inyong pasakit at perwisyo. Palalakasin natin ang koleksyon at pupuksain natin ang korapsyon sa Kawanihan ng Rentas Internas at Bureau of Customs para mapondohan natin ang ating mga hinahangad para sa lahat, tulad ng:

· dekalidad na edukasyon, kabilang ang edukasyong bokasyonal para makapaghanap ng marangal na trabaho ang hindi makapag-kolehiyo;

· serbisyong pangkalusugan, tulad ng Philhealth para sa lahat sa loob ng tatlong taon;

· tirahan sa loob ng mga ligtas na komunidad.

Palalakasin at palalaguin natin ang bilang ng ating kasundaluhan at kapulisan, hindi para tugunan ang interes ng mga naghahari-harian, ngunit para proteksyunan ang mamamayan. Itinataya nila ang kanilang buhay para mayroong pagkakataon sa katahimikan at kapayapaan sa sambayanan. Dumoble na ang populasyong kanilang binabantayan, nanatili naman sila sa bilang. Hindi tama na ang nagmamalasakit ay kinakawawa.

Kung dati ay may fertilizer scam, ngayon ay may kalinga na tunay para sa mga magsasaka. Tutulungan natin sila sa irigasyon, extension services, at sa pagbenta ng kanilang produkto sa pinakamataas na presyong maaari.

Inaatasan natin si papasok na Kalihim Alcala na magtayo ng mga trading centers kung saan diretso na ang magsasaka sa mamimili — lalaktawan natin ang gitna, kasama na ang kotong cop. Sa ganitong paraan, ang dating napupunta sa gitna ay maari nang paghatian ng magsasaka at mamimili.

Gagawin nating kaaya-aya sa negosyante ang ating bansa. We will cut red tape dramatically and implement stable economic policies. We will level the playing field for investors and make government an enabler, not a hindrance, to business. Sa ganitong paraan lamang natin mapupunan ang kakulangan ng trabaho para sa ating mga mamamayan.

Layunin nating paramihin ang trabaho dito sa ating bansa upang hindi na kailanganin ang mangibang-bansa para makahanap ng trabaho. Ngunit habang ito ay hindi pa natin naaabot, inaatasan ko ang mga kawani ng DFA, POEA, OWWA at iba pang mga kinauukulang ahensiya na mas lalo pang paigtingin ang pagtugon sa mga hinaing at pangangailangan ng ating mga overseas Filipino workers.

Papaigtingin namin ang proseso ng konsultasyon at pag-uulat sa taumbayan. Sisikapin naming isakatuparan ang nakasaad sa ating Konstitusyon na kinikilala ang karapatan ng mamamayan na magkaroon ng kaalaman ukol sa mga pampublikong alintana.

Binuhay natin ang diwa ng people power noong kampanya. Ipagpatuloy natin ito tungo sa tuwid at tapat na pamamahala. Ang naniniwala sa people power ay nakatuon sa kapwa at hindi sa sarili.

Sa mga nang-api sa akin, kaya ko kayong patawarin, at pinapatawad ko na kayo. Sa mga nang-api sa sambayanan, wala akong karapatan na limutin ang inyong mga kasalanan.

To those who are talking about reconciliation, if they mean that they would like us to simply forget about the wrongs that they have committed in the past, we have this to say: there can be no reconciliation without justice. Sa paglimot ng pagkakasala, sinisigurado mong mauulit muli ang mga pagkakasalang ito. Secretary de Lima, you have your marching orders. Begin the process of providing true and complete justice for all.

Ikinagagalak din naming ibahagi sa inyo ang pagtanggap ni dating Chief Justice Hilario Davide sa hamon ng pagtatatag at pamumuno sa isang Truth Commission na magbibigay linaw sa maraming kahinahinalang isyu na hanggang ngayon ay walang kasagutan at resolusyon.

Ang sinumang nagkamali ay kailangang humarap sa hustisya. Hindi maaaring patuloy ang kalakaran ng walang pananagutan at tuloy na pang-aapi.

My government will be sincere in dealing with all the peoples of Mindanao. We are committed to a peaceful and just settlement of conflicts, inclusive of the interests of all — may they be Lumads, Bangsamoro or Christian.

We shalL defeat the enemy by wielding the tools of justice, social reform, and equitable governance leading to a better life. Sa tamang pamamahala gaganda ang buhay ng lahat, at sa buhay na maganda, sino pa ang gugustuhing bumalik sa panahon ng pang-aapi?

Kung kasama ko kayo, maitataguyod natin ang isang bayan kung saan pantay-pantay ang pagkakataon, dahil pantay-pantay nating ginagampanan ang ating mga pananagutan.

Kamakailan lamang, ang bawat isa sa atin ay nanindigan sa presinto. Bumoto tayo ayon sa ating karapatan at konsensiya. Hindi tayo umatras sa tungkulin nating ipaglaban ang karapatang ito.

Pagkatapos ng bilangan, pinatunayan ninyo na ang tao ang tunay na lakas ng bayan.

Ito ang kahalagahan ng ating demokrasya. Ito ang pundasyon ng ating pagkakaisa. Nangampanya tayo para sa pagbabago. Dahil dito taas-noo muli ang Pilipino. Tayong lahat ay kabilang sa isang bansa kung saan maaari nang mangarap muli.

To our friends and neighbors around the world, we are ready to take our place as a reliable member of the community of nations, a nation serious about its commitments and which harmonizes its national interests with its international responsibilities.

We will be a predictable and consistent place for investment, a nation where everyone will say, “it all works.”

Inaanyayahan ko kayo ngayon na manumpa sa ating mga sarili, sa sambayanan, WALANG MAIIWAN.

Walang pangingibang-bayan at gastusan na walang wastong dahilan. Walang pagtatalikod sa mga salitang binitawan noong kampanya, ngayon at hanggang sa mga susunod pang pagsubok na pagdadaanan sa loob ng anim na taon.

Walang lamangan, walang padrino at walang pagnanakaw. Walang wang-wang, walang counterflow, walang tong. Panahon na upang tayo ay muling magkawang-gawa.

Nandito tayo ngayon dahil sama-sama tayong nanindigan at nagtiwala na may pag-asa.

The people who are behind us dared to dream. Today, the dream starts to become a reality. Sa inyong mga nag-iisip pa kung tutulong kayo sa pagpasan ng ating krus, isa lang ang aking tanong — kung kailan tayo nanalo, saka pa ba kayo susuko?

Kayo ang boss ko, kaya’t hindi maaaring hindi ako makinig sa mga utos ninyo. We will design and implement an interaction and feedback mechanism that can effectively respond to the people’s needs and aspirations.

Kayo ang nagdala sa akin sa puntong ito — ang ating mga volunteers — matanda, bata, celebrity, ordinaryong tao, na umikot sa Pilipinas para ikampanya ang pagbabago; ang aking mga kasambahay, na nag-asikaso ng lahat ng aking mga personal na pangangailangan; ang aking pamilya, kaibigan at katrabaho, na dumamay, nag-alaga at nagbigay ng suporta sa akin; ang ating mga abogado, na nagpuyat para bantayan ang ating mga boto at siguraduhing mabibilang ang bawat isa; ang aking mga kapartido at kaalyado na kasama kong nangahas mangarap; at ang milyun-milyong Pilipinong nagkaisa, nagtiwala at hindi nawalan ng pag-asa — nasa inyo ang aking taus-pusong pasasalamat.

Hindi ko makakayang harapin ang aking mga magulang, at kayong mga nagdala sa akin sa yugto ng buhay kong ito, kung hindi ko maisasakatuparan ang aking mga binitawang salita sa araw na ito.

My parents sought nothing less and died for nothing less than democracy, peace and prosperity. I am blessed by this legacy. I shall carry the torch forward.

Layunin ko na sa pagbaba ko sa katungkulan, masasabi ng lahat na malayo na ang narating natin sa pagtahak ng tuwid na landas at mas maganda na ang kinabukasang ipapamana natin sa susunod na henerasyon. Samahan ninyo ako sa pagtatapos ng laban na ito. Tayo na sa tuwid na landas.

Maraming salamat po at mabuhay ang sambayanang Pilipino!

Aquino takes oath of office as 15th Philippine president

2010-06-30T08:47:00.001+04:00

Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III on Wednesday took his oath of office as the country's 15th president, marking the first peaceful transfer of power in the country in more than a decade.

A sea of yellow-clad supporters witnessed the inauguration of Aquino, the son of democracy icons Corazon Aquino and Benigno Aquino Jr., at the historic Quirino Grandstand in Manila at 12 noon as mandated by the 1987 Constitution.

Aquino took his oath before Supreme Court Associate Justice Conchita Carpio-Morales, who also administered the oath of office of Vice President Jejomar Binay earlier.

About two hours earlier, Aquino fetched outgoing President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo from Malacañang and shared a car with her to Luneta, where she was fetched by a private car and taken to her oath-taking ceremony as representative for Pampanga’s second district.

The last time the Philippines witnessed a peaceful transition between two administrations was in 1998, when President Joseph Estrada took the reins of power with a landslide victory. He was ousted in 2001 over corruption charges and replaced by his then vice president Arroyo, who was proclaimed the winner in the 2004 presidential elections and served for a total of nine years.

Estrada ran again in the May 10 elections, but was edged out by Aquino who won by more than 5.7 million votes over the former president, who came in second.

Estrada and his predecessor, former president Fidel Ramos, were among the dignitaries that graced Aquino’s inauguration along with foreign diplomats and incoming government officials.

Aquino had been serving as senator since 2007 before he was ushered into the presidential race following the death of his mother, former President Corazon Aquino, in August last year. During his campaign, he vowed to eradicate corrupt practices that triggered several scandals during the Arroyo administration.

Philippines 15th President: Benigno Aquino III

2010-06-11T20:15:00.001+04:00

The Philippine parliament on Wednesday proclaimed Benigno Aquino as the country's 15th president.

Aquino, who formally takes office on June 30, crushed his rivals after promising to tackle the pervasive graft and grinding poverty that have long afflicted the sprawling Asian archipelago of more than 90 million people.

The 50-year-old bachelor also drew on the enormous public support for his democracy hero parents, who remain revered for their efforts in ending the 20-year rule of Ferdinand Marcos.

Aquino secured just over 15.2 million votes, or nearly 42 per cent of the total, according to final results released by parliament on Tuesday following the May 10 election.

Former president Joseph Estrada finished well behind in second place with nearly 9.5 million votes.

A joint session of parliament formally ratified the results and proclaimed Aquino the Philippines' 15th president. His inauguration is scheduled for the end of the month.

Philippines Election 2010 Update

2010-05-13T09:27:00.004+04:00

Philippines Election 2010 Updates – Though there are still some election returns which has yet to be counted, it is very clear that Noynoy Aquino wins the Philippines election 2010. The final results are known, and the highlights are with Noynoy Aquino. This is going to be one great change for the country as promising man in the form of Noynoy Aquino gets a chance to change the status of the country.

Noynoy believed that running mate Mar Roxas will be able to make it against Jejomar Binay. Philippines Election 2010 runners, Manny Villar and Gibo Teodor conceded against NoyNoy Aquino after the partial results were released by COMELEC.

Based from the data below, Noynoy Aquino stays on the top spot for the country’s most coveted presidential position. The Filipino people it seems still holds fresh the candidate’s mother’s recent death in their minds. Be it because of sympathy or because of intellectual reasons, the numbers do not lie. The majority of the Filipino people want him as the new president.

President Votes
Aquino, Benigno Simeon III C.
13,727,730

Estrada Ejercito, Joseph M.
8,685,145

Villar, Manuel Jr B.
4,958,329

Erap Did Not Vote Binay for Vice President?

2010-05-10T14:36:00.006+04:00

Most people fear a failure of elections would happen and I doubt it if there were no problems on today's election. But I am still optimistic that all in all everything would turn out fine. There is a video which was uploaded in Youtube showing Former President and 2010 Presidentiables Erap Estrada casting his vote for the first automated election in the country.

Looking at the video, Erap skipped the row for the vice presidents and proceeded on choosing for the senators.

Here is a sample of a ballot so you have idea how the ballot looks like just in case you did not cast your vote today.

Did Erap really forgot to cast his vote for the position Vice President? Was there an intention of not voting Mayor Jejomar Binay for Vice President?

Will Willie Revillame Finally Leaves ABS CBN Wowowee?

2010-05-08T23:18:00.007+04:00

Several days back, Willie Revillame was furiously mad and aired his extreme disappointment over Jobert Sucaldito, an entertainment columnist, radio show biz commentator, and segment host of the TV gossip program “The Buzz” and announced that he would resign if ABS CBN management refuse to fire Jobert.

Willie has been absent from Wowowee show for 3 consecutive days now. And the question of those people who want him out of the show is will he really leave the wowowee? ABS CBN news has reported that there were Anti Willie Revillame movement in Facebook which has around 33,ooo members. Checking the site now will show you that it increased to more than 40,ooo members.

There are also a PRO Willie Movement fan page on Facebook which has around 3,ooo members.

Do you think Willie Revillame will finally leave ABS CBN's show Wowowee?

Senatorial Candidate Wants GMA's Manicurist and Gardener Resume Disclose

2010-04-25T10:01:00.003+04:00

A senatorial candidate's wants Malacañang to disclose the resume of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's manicurist the she assigned to the board of Love Fund and the gardener of the Palace as designated deputy of the Luneta Park Administration.

Former Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Undersecretary Susan "Toots" Ople, senatorial candidate of the Nacionalista Party (NP), said the resume are released by the Presidential Management Staff (PMS), manicurist Anita Carpon and gardener Armando Macapagal will be judge publicly whether they deserve such positions.

Ople was still believes that the public voice of the two appointments are not committed to the appointee but to the official that assigned them. Ople said, many government employees were demoralized from such appointment especially those who are removed due to conducted 'streamlining' of bureaucracy.

Time Magazine covers Aquino: 'Can Noynoy save the Philippines?'

2010-04-25T09:52:00.000+04:00

MANILA —“An unlikely man of the moment.”

This is how the article in the April 26 issue of Time Magazine describes Liberal Party standard-bearer Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III. “The Next Aquino: Can Noynoy save the Philippines?” has topped Time’s Most Read list as of 4 p.m. Friday.

It starts off with a description of Aquino’s campaign in Zamboanga: “While aides and well-wishers murmur around him, Aquino stands and holds out his arms as if awaiting handcuffs.

They are lined with scratches and bruises—the toll of ceaseless hours of plunging into throngs of supporters and pressing the flesh.

He grins: ‘It’s another demonstration of people power.’”

Time sums up the events that led to Aquino’s presidential bid: “By his own admission, Aquino would not be running at all had it not been for the massive outpouring of public grief and affection that followed his mother’s (former President Corazon Aquino) death from cancer last August,” Time reports.

“He says he now walks the same path first trod by his revered parents.

‘They made automatic in me the preference to take up the cudgels for those who have less in life, for the powerless,’ [Aquino] says.

‘Why should I veer away from their footprints?’”

Humble man

The article also quotes Cebu businessman, Chris Tio, a volunteer for the Aquino campaign as saying: “The senator is a humble man at an extraordinary moment. We’re in a fight for the soul of this nation.”

Says Time: “[Aquino] speaks eagerly and repeatedly about empowering the people by delivering them ‘freedom from hunger.’

His campaign has made curbing corruption its No. 1 goal; translated from Tagalog, its main slogan reads, ‘With No Corruption, There’s No Poverty.’”

The article also touches on Aquino’s family history and describes him as a “product of status quo.”

“Both his parents, Ninoy and Cory, came from pedigreed stock—landed, aristocratic families that have long been part of the ruling establishment,” says Time.

“Similarly, Aquino’s vice presidential running mate, Mar Roxas, is the grandson of Manuel Roxas, the country’s first President.”

Closest rival

The article also mentions Aquino’s closest rival Sen. Manny Villar, describing the Nacionalista Party standard-bearer as a “suave, smiling businessman with a rags-to-riches story.”

“Observers say the presidential race has become a contest between Villar’s populism (and deep pockets) and the Aquino family legacy,” Time reports.

“[Aquino] talks with ease and intelligence about his plans to expand the country’s middle class with microcredit programs, to boost industry, universalize health care, fix education and shake up the judiciary,” says Time.

“But there are doubts about how savvy an operator he will be when thrown deep into the murky world of Philippine politics.”

The article also quotes Inquirer columnist and former National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) Director General Solita “Winnie” Monsod saying that Aquino “doesn’t have his father’s charisma, but he has his mother’s sincerity. Whether that’s enough, I don’t know.”

People remember

“The people remember his parents,” Monsod adds. “For them it’s like going back to Camelot.”

Says Time: “Aquino is more humble about his role, fitting for a person who has lived quietly for much of his life in the shadow of his parents’ legend.” “We are just instruments put in the right position to execute God’s will, Aquino tells Time. “I crossed my Rubicon in 1983,” he adds, referring to the year his father, the late Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr., was assassinated.

“I cannot accept that he would die for nothing.” And judging from the “confetti and shredded paper” billowing from out of the office buildings in Zamboanga, “the wail of sirens and the ceaseless chanting of ‘Noynoy!,’ neither can countless Filipinos.” Inquirer.net

Manny Villar Spent P70.4 Million on TV Ads?

2010-02-03T15:22:00.004+04:00

If you are running for a seat in politics especially higher positions like President, Vice-President and Senator, you only have limited time to make yourself known all over the country. How will you do this? One way is through the use of TV ads.

It has been a practice in Philippines for aspiring candidates for higher positions to make their own TV ads. We all know that this costs a lot of money, but to those who are rich, this is not a problem.

Manny Villar wa said to have spent his biggest tv ads amounting to P70.4 million pesos last January. Just imagine how much he had already spent with all those tv commercial ads being played on your television.

Got this info from a newspaper where it shows the amount spent on Tv ads.

Enero 22-24 (Total TV ads) P70,427,777.50
ABS-CBN

*71 30-60 seconds spot P30,992,307.50
GMA

*67 30-60 seconds spots P33,556,270.00
Cinema One

*9 30-60 seconds spots P440,000.00
MTV

*12 30-60 seconds spots P403,200.00
MYX

*9 30-60 seconds spots P374,000.00
Studio 23

*3 30 seconds spots P180,000.00
TV 5

*14 30-60 seconds spots P4,482,000.00

Villar not only have Tv ads, he also have online advertisements on Google, Youtube and the popular social media site Facebook. I will not be suprise to see more online ads as they said, he has billions of pesos to spend for his presidential campaign.

Edu Manzano For Vice President

2009-11-13T15:42:00.003+04:00

Former Optical Media Board Chairman(OMB) and television host Eduardo “Edu” Manzano Friday accepted the offer to be the vice presidential candidate of the administration Lakas-Kampi-CMD party, ending weeks of speculation as to who will be the running mate of Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro.

Actor and television host Edu Manzano will be the vice presidential bet of Lakas-Kampi-CMD, according to party vice chairman and Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno.

Teodoro, who remains lagging in presidential preference surveys, said Puno was instrumental in convincing Manzano to run with the Defense chief in the 2010 national elections.

"I would like to introduce to all of you this morning someone whom Secretary Teodoro has accepted to be his running mate and [a] person who has accepted the challenge of standing beside Secretary Teodoro in the quest to become the next president of the Republic of the Philippines and him the next vice president of the Republic of the Philippines. No other than former OMB chairman Edu Manzano," said Puno.

Teodoro said he was very pleased that Manzano accepted the invitation to become his running mate.

"Ang agenda namin pareho. Nag-uumpisa kami ng fresh. Nag-uumpisa kami dahil naniniwala kami sa prinsipyo ng Lakas-Kampi-CMD (Our agenda is the same. We are starting out fresh. We are starting this because we believe in the principles of Lakas-Kampi-CMD)," Teodoro said.

Manzano said Puno "played a very big role" in convincing him to run for vice president and support Teodoro all the way.

"You may not be of the knowledge that the good Secretary [Puno] has been like a mentor to me, and when he told me 'kausapin mo si Gibo,' (talk to Gibo) even before speaking to Secretary Teodoro I have already expressed my respect for Secretary Teodoro and my belief that he possesses all the qualities that are necessary to move this country forward," Manzano said.

"I would like to hitch my wagon on that of the good Secretary and be part of his team na siyang isusulong ang kinabukasan ng mamamayang Pilipino (that will work for the future of the Filipinos)," added Manzano.

The former OMB chairman told reporters after the press conference that he only finalized his decision on Thursday even though he and Puno have been discussing the idea months ago.

Aside from his discussions with Puno, his conversation with Teodoro two days ago wherein they discussed their plans for the country convinced him that he wanted to become the Defense chief's running mate, Manzano said.

Jacque Bermejo's Official Statement

2009-09-29T11:06:00.006+04:00

There have been clamor going on in the cyberspace about a Filipina who they said issued a insensitive, careless statement against her fellow Filipinos on the aftermath of typhoon ondoy.

Here is Jacque Bermejos official statement.

"I am issuing this statement to clear my name in the current controversy in which I allegedly posted a highly insensitive and offensive message on the social networking website, Facebook, in relation to the victims of typhoon Ondoy that recently struck parts of the Philippines.

About two years ago, an anonymous source created these accounts using my identity, posting my personal details, my real pictures captioned roughly and attacking other people. Because of these incidents, I reported such abuses and sent my credentials to the administrators of such sites, particularly Facebook. I have been abused and am still being abused online in social networking websites such as Facebook, Friendster, Multiply etc.

In the early stages, I was advised by close friends to ignore the situation, saying this would simply go away. Unfortunately, it has not stopped. Hence, I filed a complaint with the Dubai Police about eight months ago hoping they could help me with my problem. Should anyone wish to check my statement, my case is still under investigation with said authorities.

Time passed and these sites continued to generate malicious, obscene and cruel messages that are widely exposed and relayed to the public under my name.

Yesterday, September 27th 2009, I received phone calls from my close friends regarding very alarming posts in the above mentioned websites that directly offended flood victims as a result of typhoon Ondoy..

These malicious statement(s) which are posted under account names Jacque or Jackie are not of my doing. It is unfortunate that such statements were maliciously attributed to me and I do sympathize and understand the adverse and somehow verbally violent reaction that has been elicited by such insensitive statements or posts. Rest assured, I have taken every legal step that can be done in this regard.

I too, have become a victim as much as those who may have lost their lives and properties to such a devastating natural calamity. This recent controversy has greatly affected my reputation, my family, and my friends. I am devastated and shocked at the extent my character, my personal information and private space have been violated.

I have a deep respect and regard for my country. I am proud to be a Filipino and would never say or do anything to harm the interest of my country or countrymen. I have also had the privilege of participating in civic-oriented activities in Dubai, particularly in trying to help my fellow countrymen seek employment during the height of mass layoffs brought about by the ongoing global financial crisis, as well as those seeking employment for the first time. Making a mockery of any unfortunate incidents befalling any of my fellow Filipinos is simply contrary to my character. I condemn the person or persons behind these malicious acts to impute damage on my integrity and I hope that you can dig deep into your hearts and minds to truly find the truth in all these."

The question here now is, is this true? Is this a case of identity theft? What can these social networking sites do to prove her innocence?

Feel free to comment and share what you think Jacque Bermejo can do to clean her name and reputation against this issue.

Typhoon Ondoys Aftermath - Death continues to rise

2009-09-28T16:15:00.003+04:00

Typhoon Ondoy has made the streets of Metro Manila an ocean with color chocolate because mud is now the appearance of many areas in Metro Manila that causes severe flooding. One military helicopters observes in the air lots of people from a far climbing up to their roofs while waiting for rescue.

Some of the residents who were waiting impatiently to the rescued, caries their children and shoulder the burden of equipment that can lead to temporarily evacuattion.

I have seen images of remains drowned dogs and chicken while floating buoy-colored chocolate flood while trying to rescuer the onset of rubber boats to get to the area need help.

A man who already shorts and sandals was holding a paper which is written the words "food" and "water". Two more men found in the roof of a car that made apparent that they raft in the middle of a road filled with water.

As of this writing, there were already 100 death cases, the storm affected 89,953 families and 451,683 people.

FHM Sexiest woman Christine Reyes was one of the affected residents of the typhoon ondoy.

Noynoy Aquino for President on 2010 Presidential Elections

2009-09-15T20:58:00.003+04:00

The hope rises again. The work begins anew. The dream lives on.

Yes, he can. Yes, we can. IF YOU WANT CHANGE, care to share this video with your friends.

Former President Corazon Cory Aquino dead at 76

2009-08-01T10:59:00.004+04:00

Former Philippine President Corazon "Cory" Aquino has died this morning after a battle with colon cancer.

Former President Cory passed away at 3:18 am, August 1, 2009 of cardio-respiratory arrest," Senator Benigno Aquino Jr, said in a statement outside the Makati Medical Centre in Manila, where his mother had been hospitalised.

Corazon "Cory" Cojuangco Aquino

To the world, she is the widow in yellow who toppled a dictatorship in a stirring show of People Power in 1986. To her native Philippines, she is the couragous president who single-mindedly restored the institutions of democracy.

Born to a political family, and later married to a popular politician. Cory Cojuangco Aquino managed to lead a life for half a century. After her husband was martyred in 1983, she became a public figure who would challenge a dictator and unexpectedly rise to her nation's presidency. She remains one of the world's most beloved icons of democracy.

Corazon "Cory" Aquino's Presidency

"Ours is a government that came to power borne on the shoulders of our people: we must therefore, govern on the basis of that same people power." For six years, President Corazon C. Aquino, tried to live up to those words by hewing close to the aspirations of the Filipino people.

Corazon "Cory" Aquino's Works

Even she was thrust into the public limelight. Cory Aquino has tried to bridge her spiritual inclinations with the need to refine and share her insights on strengtening democratic institutions. In many of her speeches, she has given her Prayer Power and People Power equal billing.

Corazon "Cory" Aquino's Advocacies

Mrs. Aquino has remained active in helping nurture the fragile Philippine democracy that was restored during her presidency. Largely through the Benigno S. Aquino, Jr. Foundation (BSAF), she has supported programs that promote people empowerment, peace and human rights. In recent years, she has devoted much time and energy to strengthening the infrastructure that would transform micro-enterprise development into a potent vehicle for raising “people power” to the next level, slowly creating a broad middle class that would fortify the foundations of Philippine democracy.

Corazon "Cory" Aquino's Tributes

Self-effacing by nature, Cory Aquino has characteristically shared the credit for the many accolades that she has received for leadership, international understanding and her commitment to freedom and democracy. Named, among others, as “Woman of the Year” by Time magazine in 1986 and “Filipino of the Century” by the Philippines Free Press in 2000, and conferred over 20 honorary doctorates, she has kept her feet firmly on the ground.

In her view, the limelight belongs to her martyred husband, to the courageous people who carried her on their shoulders and, above all, to God. This theme runs across much of the articles written about her, including the reflections shared during the inaugural symposium of the Ninoy and Cory Aquino Center for Leadership in November 2004.

Here is a very nice video of our beloved Cory Aquino. This video a poem by Fr. Soc Villegas and put into music by Ryan Cayabyab. A must watch video titled Sumasampalataya Ako.

Cristine Reyes is Sexiest Woman in the World

2009-07-02T14:01:00.007+04:00

Cristine Reyes has taken the crown as Sexiest Woman in the World this year for FHM Philippines.
Cristine Reyes first became cover of FHM in August 2007 issue. She got 382,819 votes.

Other in Top 10 Sexiest Women and the respective vote are Marian Rivera (282,300 votes), Angel Locsin (266,233 votes), Katrina Halili (238,558 votes), Iwa Moto (220,945 votes), Ehra Madrigal (213,287 votes) , Anne Curtis (207,825 votes), Angelica Panganiban (198,236 votes), Pauleen Luna (193,917 votes) and Valerie 'bangs' Garcia (179,198 votes).

Like last year, Megan Fox is still FHM Global winner. Megan is the leading lady of Shia LaBeouf in transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.

Swine Flu cases now 1,709

2009-07-02T13:42:00.004+04:00

There are now 1,709 confirmed cases of influenza A (H1N1) virus in the country yesterday.

This is after the Department of Health (DOH) confirmed 848 cases of virus within a week, says Dr. Eric Tayag of the National Epidemiology Center.

New 848 new cases recorded, eight of these foreigners.

DOH reiterates that these should not cause fear to the public because the 1709 virus has stricken 1,485 that better or equal to 86 percent.

The 1,709 cases of H1N1, the 1,225 or equivalent to 72% are from the National Capital Region (NCR). Second to Metro Manila with confirmed cases of H1N1 in Quezon City, Manila, Parañaque, Pasig and city of Makati. Followed with most cases is Region 4A with 251 or fifteen percent. Followed by Region 3 with 113, Region 8, 42 cases; 10 Region, 25 cases; Region 7 and CAR, one ten cases.

7 cases in Region 6; five in Region 1; three Region 5; four in Region 11; two in Region 4B; one each in Region 9, 12 and Caraga remains safe while on the H1N1 ARMM and Region 2.

Meanwhile, those confirmed case are mostly from America, followed by China, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Australia.

Meanwhile, the leadership of Congress should not oblige congressman to not travel outside the country ten days before the State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to prevent the spread of H1N1 virus.

Bukidnon Rep. says. Teofisto Guingona III, it can not be made mandatory for leadership chamber especially there is no clear policy regarding this DOH.

Philippines confirms 2nd A/H1N1 flu case

2009-05-24T12:51:00.002+04:00

MANILA, Philippines—(UPDATE) The Department of Health on Sunday announced the second confirmed case of a Filipino with the deadly A/H1N1 flu virus.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque, who made the announcement shortly after arriving from Geneva, where he attended the World Health Assembly, also said “there remains no community-level outbreak" in the Philippines.

He said that authorities at this stage would not postpone the start of the school year, scheduled for June 1.

"The symptoms that we have observed in the first two confirmed cases are similar to the symptoms manifested by most other patients in affected countries," he said.

"This is really just a mild form of the virus. However, this is new and we do not know if this will turn for the worse," he added.

Duque said the second index case is a 50-year-old Filipino woman who arrived from the United States on May 20.

The balikbayan (returning Filipino) from Chicago, he said, reported her illness the following day after showing mild flu symptoms such as fever and cough.

Duque said the woman, whose name was withheld, no longer had symptoms of the flu and was on her way to recovery, as of Sunday.

The patient has been isolated and is being monitored at Manila's Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, while quarantine officials trace those who came into contact with her.

On Thursday the health department announced the Philippines' first swine flu case, a 10-year-old girl whose family had traveled to the United States.

Her family flew home last week and officials are now tracing some 17 passengers who are believed to have come into close contact with her.

Duque said on Sunday the girl was recovering and appeared to have contracted a mild form of swine flu.

Taiwanese authorities confirmed Saturday that a woman and her daughter who had visited the Philippines for a yoga class had contracted swine flu.

Source: Inquirer

2008-2009 Bar exam passers result update

2009-04-04T18:36:00.000+04:00

Here is the complete list Philippines 2008-2009 bar exam passers result which has just been released by the Supreme Court.

Here are the Top 10 bar passers:

1. Judy Lardizabal San Sebastian College - 85.70%
2. Mylene Amerol Macumbal Mindanao State University - 85.65
3. Oliver Baclay Jr. Ateneo de Manila University – 85.60
4. Majesty Eve Jala, Ateneo de Manila University – 85.55
5. Maria Elizabeth Liceralde, UP Diliman – 85.40
6. Michael Macapagal, UP Diliman – 84.15
7. Denise Dy, Ateneo de Manila University – 84
April Love Regis, Ateneo de Manila University – 84
8. Christine Joy Tan, Ateneo de Manila University– 83.80
9. Jihan Jacob, San Beda College – 83.75
10. Vanessa Raymundo, San Beda College– 83.70

Here are all the list of passers from in alphabetical order:

1 ABABA Victoria D
2 ABAD Bernard O
3 ABAD Francis Michael C
4 ABADEZA Melissa A
5 ABALOS Christian Noel C
6 ABALOS Joseph Ryan C
7 ABALOS Mcdonald G
8 ABANTE Priscilla Marie T
9 ABARCA Jerome G
10 ABAYA Mark Francis P
11 ABAYON Jerome B
12 ABDULLAH Noor Hafizullah M
13 ABEJARON Arnold C
14 ABELITA Peter Filip S
15 ABELLA Marie Velle P
16 ABENOJAR Lilian C
17 ABESAMIS Ellen V
18 ABO Rolando T
19 ABREA Elton Dick J
20 ABRENICA Angelee Marree A
21 ABUCEJO Joan D
22 ABYADANG Harriet N
23 ACHAS John Albino C
24 ACOSTA Carl De Liz L
25 ADJU Annally T
26 ADMANA Gerlie A
27 ADRIANO Alexander DG
28 ADRIANO Karen J
29 ADVINCULA Ma. Carolina T
30 AFRICA Voltaire B
31 AGAAB Jose Raphael E
32 AGATEP, JR. Orlino D
33 AGGALAO Arnold O
34 AGRAVANTE Evelyn T
35 AGTARAP Florina C
36 AGTARAP Richard M
37 AGUAS Princess Luren D
38 AGUDO Elma Jewelle A
39 AGUILAR Aileen R
40 ALANO Joseph Rod Allan C
41 ALBO Aubrey F
42 ALCANTARA Abraham Joseph B
43 ALCARDE Princess May C
44 ALCOREZA Joden B
45 ALCUAZ Alfonso Ismael A
46 ALEGRE Jacqueline Ann C
47 ALEGRE Marife M
48 ALEJANDRO Henry D
49 ALEJANDRO Johnsen H
50 ALIBANIA, JR. Eliseo C
51 ALICER Arthur Anthony S
52 ALILAM James G
53 ALIPIO, II Abraham C
54 ALISUAG Ma. Lenina C
55 ALLAM Marion P
56 ALMA JOSE Sylvia R
57 ALMALBIS Jelou F
58 ALMARIO Gilbert S
59 ALMARIO Shari-christine S
60 ALMAZAR Michael Barney R
61 ALMERO Rowena Joyce R
62 ALMOETE Martee L
63 ALMOGUERA Hanil B
64 ALMONTE, JR. Bienvenido B
65 ALONZO Timmy Joy S
66 ALPAY Zinia P
67 ALUNDAY Reynold B
68 ALVINA Cynthia L
69 AMBOANG Louilyn N
70 AMEROL-MACUMBAL Mylene I
71 AMIGABLE, JR. Felizardo D
72 AMIS Kathryn D
73 AMISTAD Christian B
74 AMOD Merxel Mae O
75 AMOR Aileen L
76 AMOR Fernando R
77 AMORA, JR. Lilio J
78 AMPIG Francis Athanasius D
79 AMPONG, III Teodulfo S
80 ANDRES Gilbert T
81 ANDUMANG Archie R
82 ANG Arlon U
83 ANG Juvielet Jeanne A
84 ANGELES Albert Lee G
85 ANGELES Erwin C
86 ANGELES Erwin Rommel S
87 ANIAG Mark Anthony V
88 ANITO Mylene A
89 ANONAT Jerry C
90 ANTERO Richard S
91 ANTIG Pamela Angela U
92 ANTONIO Elizabeth B
93 ANTONIO Hannah Lorraine Y
94 ANTONIO Harold M
95 AOANAN Kleider Rex C
96 APAO, JR. Mariano L
97 APASAN Joseph Ryan C
98 APILADO Louella Xylee T
99 APOLINARIO Charmaine C
100 APUYOD Jesus F
101 AQUENDE Hardy B
102 AQUINO Magnolia P
103 AQUINO Mark M
104 AQUINO Paolo R
105 AQUINO Patrick T
106 ARANAS Melchor Jaemond A
107 ARAULA, II Felix B
108 ARBOLADURA Rhea A
109 ARBOLEDA Lisette M
110 ARCE Cecilia Maria Rosario M
111 ARCE Liwayway D
112 ARCENAL-NOGRA Aiiza Fiel A
113 ARELLANO-AGUDA Jesusa Loreto A
114 ARGABIOSO Antonio S
115 ARGENIO Kareen May E
116 ARIAS Jolienne Lee D
117 ARIOLA Aimee Riza S
118 ARIOSA Gia L
119 ARITAO, JR. Benjamin E
120 ARNADO Richard M
121 ARQUILLO Ruby B
122 ARTUZ Pearly Sheila F
123 ARZADON Romino G
124 ASENCION Marissa R
125 ASUNCION, III Isaiah O
126 ATAS Richelle L
127 ATENSOR Joseph Brian A
128 ATIENZA Catalino C
129 ATIENZA Katrina Catherine P
130 ATIENZA Leynard B
131 ATIENZA Verdie J
132 ATOS Richelle Mae G
133 AURO Christian V
134 AUTENTICO Ana Michaela N
135 AVELLANO Christine F
136 AVISADO Ethel C
137 AYENG Adelaide Nancy Sybil G
138 AYO Danilo M
139 AYUNGO Theodorick K
140 AZARRAGA Juliet C
141 AÑOVER Paul Vincent W
142 BA-ALAN Orlando A
143 BACARAMAN Nur Jaypha R
144 BACLAY, JR. Oliver P
145 BACLAYO Ruby T
146 BACOLOR Heidi F
147 BACON Edwin M
148 BACONG Jeanie Rose A
149 BAETIONG Joselito M
150 BAGGAYAN Ma. Jonalyn F
151 BAGSIT Liza Flor T
152 BAGUIO Fritz B
153 BAHIAN Rachelle I
154 BAHJIN, II Jainal Abidin Y
155 BAI Muhlis S
156 BAJENIO Webb I
157 BALANGCOD Christobal J
158 BALANGITAN Mark Jeff W
159 BALANON Maxlen C
160 BALBOA Conrada A
161 BALDOVINO Renoir O
162 BALLARAN Armi L
163 BALLINAN John Dale A
164 BALMEO Trinidad V
165 BALTAR Jonathan Z
166 BALTAZAR Jay Francis P
167 BALTAZAR Ma. Francesca Q
168 BANAGUI Leah B
169 BANALAGAY Harold Howell D
170 BANDONELL Marinel F
171 BANIQUED Marigel M
172 BANSON, JR. Ceferino W
173 BANTASAN Joel C
174 BANZON Melissa Suzette L
175 BAQUIRAN Monalyn Ann L
176 BARATA Erwin N
177 BARCENAS Ligaya Victoria U
178 BARIL-LLEGUE Josefina M
179 BARIN Anna Gayle T
180 BARING-PRIETO Aiza Marie M
181 BARRIOS, III Isidro B
182 BARTOLOME Harold Ian V
183 BARTOLOME Prescila D
184 BARTOLOME Vincent Vos R
185 BARTOLOME, JR. David S
186 BARTOLOME, JR. Gaudencio P
187 BASA Fernando C
188 BASANES Karla Kristine L
189 BASCO Diana Joyce N
190 BASILGO Gembeth G
191 BATAC Regina C
192 BATALLA Maria Phenny Joan G
193 BATE Nover M
194 BATHAN Maricris E
195 BATU Kasarinlan S
196 BAUTISTA Cliff John C
197 BAYOTAS Michael Darwin M
198 BAYSAC Dianna Lynne S
199 BAÑAGA Myra Janina P
200 BAÑEZ Emerson S
201 BEJA Ma. Jela Teresa S
202 BELARMINO-RUMA Brenda R
203 BELEN Vernon A
204 BELENA Persephone Meir B
205 BELLEZA John M
206 BELMES Mae Richelle B
207 BELMONTE Mary Elizabeth (marybee) M
208 BERAN-BARAOIDAN Catherin B
209 BERIANA Charlene A
210 BERMEJO Ma. Teresa Ana V
211 BERMEJO Maricel F
212 BERNABE, II Regina V
213 BERNALES, JR. Marcial P
214 BERNARDINO Aida S
215 BERNARDINO-BAÑEZ Noralyn C
216 BERON Jay Cesar I
217 BESSAT Madeleine A
218 BIBAL Joanne Mae A
219 BIGOL Maria Victoria B
220 BILONGILOT Joana Q
221 BIRON Jose Noe James S
222 BONDAD, JR. Rodolfo A
223 BONGAR Kharen Lee P
224 BONGHANOY Liewellyn F
225 BORJA Haidee O
226 BORJA Jacqueline Q
227 BORRA Katrina P
228 BRACIA M. Melvin B
229 BRAGADO Joel Emilio F
230 BRAGAT Maria Lourdes C
231 BREGALA Dennis B
232 BRILLANTES Fel Lester G
233 BRINGAS Catherine S
234 BRION Francis C
235 BRIONES Estrellita B
236 BROCALES Christopher Redeemson R
237 BROTONEL Jo Katrina V
238 BRUAN, JR. Cesario B
239 BUBAN Josephine M
240 BUENA Delbert Clifford V
241 BUENDIA Cristina B
242 BUENO Cheryl F
243 BUGA-AY Vicente Fidel C
244 BUGAOAN Eric Vincent H
245 BUGHAO Melvin Cydrick M
246 BUHAIN Camille R
247 BUNDOC Jacqueline C
248 BUNGABONG Kurt Adolph C
249 BURDAS-CASTRO Arlie R
250 BURDEOS Sherry Joy O
251 BURGOS Ma. Lourdes S
252 BUSI Barrytone A
253 CABADING Marilex L
254 CABALI Pearl Grace G
255 CABALLERO Maynard G
256 CABANGON Ley A
257 CABANILLA Cris Francis O
258 CABANSAG Glynis Lyn R
259 CABIC Ellen Aster B
260 CABOTEJA, JR. Romeo O
261 CABRERA Cherrie Mae S
262 CABRERA Maria Christine C
263 CABRIDO Candice Elizabeth A
264 CACATIAN-BARANGAN Freniza Joy D
265 CACAYURAN Sheryll P
266 CACCAM-FIGUEROA Rowena B
267 CACHAPERO Marty P
268 CACHO Arlene Valerie G
269 CADIOGAN, JR. Randolph C
270 CAINTO Angela Faith L
271 CAINTO Leo V
272 CAJIGAL Wilbur R
273 CAJILIG Geraldine A
274 CALAGUI Eric-john S
275 CALALO-MACAPAGAL Vivian B
276 CALAMBA Winsor B
277 CALATRAVA Ira R
278 CALDE Nimreh L
279 CALDE Roland P
280 CALINISAN Rafael Vicente R
281 CALPO Ma. Lourdes Gaye T
282 CAMACHO Alva C
283 CAMANDERO-GURO Kristine M
284 CAMARA Mark Darwin A
285 CAMPANER Francisco M
286 CANDELARIA Desiree G
287 CANIBA May A
288 CANTALEJO John Dale A
289 CANTIL Jason A
290 CANTIMBUHAN Veron Joy J
291 CAPARAS Melanie C
292 CAPINPIN Michael Joseph C
293 CAPUSEN Dimsey J
294 CAPUYAN Julifaith C
295 CARDENAS Maria Josella Teresa M
296 CARILLO Mae Jill B
297 CARINGAL Carlos M
298 CARINGAL Glenda Leah A
299 CARITOS Rona Ann V
300 CARIÑO Arbin Omar P
301 CARIÑO Marlon M
302 CARLOS Roy E
303 CARMONA Sheila Minnelli V
304 CASTASUS Lee Guian Paulo O
305 CASTIL Rico C
306 CASTILLEJO Raymond Christle N
307 CASTILLO Eleazar E
308 CASTILLO Javerick G
309 CASTILLO Ma. Christina G
310 CASTILLO Paul Cornelius T
311 CASTILLO, JR. Emmanuel F
312 CASTRO Allan R
313 CASTRO Carmencita D
314 CASTRO Cyril Alfred S
315 CASTRO Elvira Joselle R
316 CASTRO Jose Romulo L
317 CASTRO Lorelei A
318 CASTRO Rohail R
319 CATALO Janice C
320 CATAPANG Dyan Kristi C
321 CATAPANG-ROSALES Luzviminda C
322 CATIBAYAN Luis Manuel M
323 CATRE Mary Christine Charisse G
324 CATRE, JR. Noel Christian G
325 CAUILAN Joey L
326 CAUNAN Patricia Yvonne M
327 CAYANGA Edelisa May M
328 CAZEÑAS Mary Dezerie D
329 CAÑAL Renato E
330 CAÑAMO Peter B
331 CAÑEDO Jose Ritche O
332 CAÑEDO, JR. Florenz O
333 CAÑETE Ferdinand C
334 CAÑO Maria Janice B
335 CECILIO, JR. Uldarico P
336 CEDEÑO Al Joseph V
337 CENIZA Yvonne C
338 CENTENO Joseph Darren C
339 CEREZO Jimbert A
340 CERVANTES Leonardo Roy A
341 CHAN Marvin A
342 CHAN Phil Ivan A
343 CHANECO Maria Cecilia V
344 CHANYUNGCO Caleen T
345 CHAO-AYAN Lalaine Y
346 CHAVEZ, JR. Raul B
347 CHAVEZ-BERNARDO Anunsacion P
348 CHING Betha Fe A
349 CHIONG Kristine Vanessa T
350 CHOI Christina T
351 CHONG Juan Ruffo D
352 CHUA Joan A
353 CHUA Jon Anton Daryl Y
354 CHUA Marites L
355 CHUA Maximilian
356 CHUA CHENG Perfecto Adelfo C
357 CIRILO Kristine Ria N
358 CLARIN Armando T
359 CLARINO Madonna N
360 CLEMENCIO Djhoana Gene A
361 CLEMENTE Katrina O
362 CLOMA Melissa D
363 CO Janice L
364 COBSEN Martinelli R
365 COLES Christopher R
366 COLINIO, JR. Ricardo A
367 COLLANTES King George Leandro Antonio V
368 COMAFAY, JR. Errol B
369 COMAHIG Niño Rey P
370 CONDEZ Christina Faye M
371 CONDEZ Dustin Jay A
372 CONDOR Glenn D
373 CONSEBIT Norlyn P
374 CONSTANTINO Alvin Joseph G
375 CONSTANTINO Bernie Francis B
376 CONSTANTINO Cherry Mae M
377 CONSTANTINO Placido S
378 CONTRERAS Monaliza G
379 CORGOS Lenon Jay A
380 CORNEL Bernadette O
381 CORPUZ Christine C
382 CORPUZ Cynthia C
383 CORTES Santos Anthony O
384 COSTELO Arnold C
385 COTIAMCO Casiano Anthony G
386 CRESPO Alesandro G
387 CRISTOBAL Kristan Carlos M
388 CRUZ Agatha Paula A
389 CRUZ Anthony Ronar B
390 CRUZ Carmenez B
391 CRUZ Ferdinand O
392 CRUZ Karl Cornelio A
393 CRUZ, JR. Rene P
394 CRUZ-MENDOZA Karen Kaye C
395 CU Migñon Chrix D
396 CUA Mary Kimberly G
397 CUBERO John Paul B
398 CUEVAS Brian James C
399 CUGAL Arnold V
400 CUIZON Cyril Bryan D
401 CULANCULAN Ma. Cherryl M
402 CUMITAG Gaius P
403 CURAZA Maria Aurora R
404 CUSTODIO Niersen C
405 CUÑADA Jp Anthony D
406 CUÑANO Paul Michael J
407 DAAYATA Jessamine M
408 DABU Maria Helen T
409 DACLAN Eller Roel I
410 DACQUEL Denny A
411 DAGARAGA Roschelle B
412 DALANAO Heidiliza G
413 DALANGIN, JR. Bart Q
414 DALLO Zorayda R
415 DANAO Catherine S
416 DANLAG-LUIG Razel A
417 DANO Richard M
418 DATOON Teresita U
419 DAVID Kristine Kay S
420 DAVID Timothy J
421 DAYAG Wilhelmina Mojet S
422 DE CASTRO Thomas John Thaddeus F
423 DE GUZMAN Rico J
424 DE GUZMAN, III Ricardo C
425 DE JESUS Michael Ken R
426 DE JUAN-HERMOSO Maribeth L
427 DE LA CRUZ Kareen P
428 DE LARA Joel M
429 DE LEON Cyril F
430 DE LEON May Angeli G
431 DE LEON, JR. Hernan Ed Noel L
432 DE LOS SANTOS, JR. Ricardo C
433 DE LUNA Sherwin M
434 DE PERALTA Christian G
435 DE VERA Celina S
436 DE VEYRA Juan Carlos J
437 DEFANTE Divi Bless G
438 DEL SOCORRO Lloyd Ismael O
439 DELA CHICA Jose Jay E
440 DELA CRUZ Allen S
441 DELA CRUZ Donna Cher A
442 DELA CRUZ Eric B
443 DELA CRUZ John Gerald B
444 DELA CRUZ June Abigail S
445 DELA CRUZ Marie Francesca Luz O
446 DELA PAZ Carmela T
447 DELA PEÑA Aldin P
448 DELA RAMA Myra P
449 DELFIN Jeremy Diosana
450 DELGADO Julius Gregory B
451 DELOS REYES Grace Maria Theresa Bambi A
452 DELOS SANTOS Mar Angelo G
453 DEMETILLO Jasmin M
454 DERIGAY Rachel F
455 DIANO Melanie Rita B
456 DICIANO Rachel I
457 DIDAL Janice M
458 DIMACULANGAN Karen L
459 DIMAISIP Joyce Jazmin G
460 DIMANLIG Nicole Ava S
461 DINO Jan Paulo DL
462 DIONISIO Mary Jaynard P
463 DITAN Maria Cristina A
464 DIVINAGRACIA Angiebel A
465 DIVINO Markson E
466 DIÑO Dominic A
467 DOCDOCIL Edith A
468 DOMINGO Bernard Joseph E
469 DOMINGO Johnson V
470 DOMINGO Joyce Felisa B
471 DOMINGO Maria Paula B
472 DOMINGUEZ Ina Alexandra A
473 DOMINO Julie Ann B
474 DORIA Arnold V
475 DUEÑAS Niña Genoveva D
476 DUNGCA Joy F
477 DURAN Alain Zam C
478 DURAN Marie Christine A
479 DURANO Mylene M
480 DY Denise S
481 DY Mark Robert A
482 DYKIMCHING Eric T
483 EBREO Madonna L
484 EDUARTE, JR. Henedino Joseph P
485 ELANG Muiz-za M
486 ELE Maria Felicitas V
487 ELOT Beda Joy B
488 ENOPIA Frederick A
489 ENTILA Julius C
490 ERNI-PUENTENEGRA Ma. Gay A
491 ESCAUSO Ronald C
492 ESCOLANO Ida Marie V
493 ESGUERRA Roman S
494 ESPEJO-BIAG Angela Patrice A
495 ESPELA Melan M
496 ESPINELI Karen Jill M
497 ESPINO Alain Paul B
498 ESPINOSA Mark B
499 ESPIRITU Kristine Nicole M
500 ESPONILLA Neil P
501 ESQUEJO Hilda L
502 ESQUIVIAS Julius Thomas A
503 ESTOCAPIO Rene C
504 ESTOLAS May Angeli M
505 ESTRELLA Paula Sophia G
506 EUSTAQUIO Magnolia D
507 EVANGELISTA Rafael A
508 FABIAN Marie P
509 FABILLAN Alexanderwerk E
510 FAJARDO Jean S
511 FAMOR Orwin Lloyd M
512 FARIÑAS Cherry Dane A
513 FAURILLO Michelle A
514 FAVIS Maria Cristina D
515 FAVORITO Meliza F
516 FELICIANO Dennis P
517 FELIPE Jennifer D
518 FERNANDEZ Ennoh Chentis R
519 FERNANDEZ Maricel D
520 FERNANDEZ Mc Jill Bryant T
521 FERNANDEZ Suzie A
522 FERNANDEZ, IV Cristobal R
523 FERRER Maricris S
524 FERROLINO Concepcion Zeny E
525 FERROLINO Ted M
526 FLORES Aldwin Z
527 FLORES Ellen Grace R
528 FLORES Pedrito B
529 FLORES Sherwin D
530 FLORIA Joselea Y
531 FOZ Justice Anthony A
532 FRANCISCO Mariel L
533 FRANCISCO, JR. Philomel D
534 FRANCO Karin-lei N
535 FRISNEDI April Joy L
536 FUENTEBELLA Felix William B
537 FUENTES Ruth C
538 FULE-LOGAN Kathy Luisa G
539 FURIGAY Mark Leo P
540 GABIHAN Dennis R
541 GABOR Allan Jae V
542 GABRIEL Daisy Ann S
543 GABRIEL Sherry Anne C
544 GACUTAN Sheila C
545 GAELA Frederick C
546 GALANG Emmanuel L
547 GALANTO Mary Anne B
548 GALAPON Martin C
549 GALVAN Mark J
550 GALVEZ Hernando C
551 GALVEZ Mechelee Kieth F
552 GAMBOA Joan Lou P
553 GANA Joanna Kristine S
554 GAPATAN Jasmine Ann B
555 GARCIA Grace P
556 GARCIA Jesse James A
557 GARCIA Kerwyn D
558 GARCIA Marc Jeremiah R
559 GARCIA Maria Khristina Z
560 GARCIA Marisa P
561 GARCIA Mark Evarra M
562 GARCIA Michael P
563 GARCIA-GABRIEL Aura Rizza A
564 GARRUCHO Gretchen Y
565 GATDULA Eddielyn L
566 GATURIAN Lalaine T
567 GAVAS, JR. Ernesto R
568 GAY-YA Jerico G
569 GAYAGAY Romelyn B
570 GEALON Rey M
571 GEBILAGUIN Shiela D
572 GELBOLINGO Juliemie B
573 GENUINO Erwin F
574 GEOCANIGA Rommel T
575 GERMAN Dainelee V
576 GIANAN, JR. Lino A
577 GIGA Marlou C
578 GIGANTONE-CADIZ Shemidah
579 GO Abigail V
580 GO Erdelyne C
581 GO Ormil D
582 GOLEZ Sylvester P
583 GOMEZ Ira Jordana Margrethe M
584 GOMEZ Jacqueline Ann Marie O
585 GOMEZ Mark Louie L
586 GOMEZ Michael Geronimo R
587 GOMEZ Patricia Isabel O
588 GOMINTONG Jemarose G
589 GONZALES Ivy C
590 GONZALES Lifrendo M
591 GONZALES, JR. Cesario G
592 GONZALEZ Archimedes B
593 GONZALEZ Rosario Carmela B
594 GORRES Angelina Luisa V
595 GRANDE Charlemagne Angelo C
596 GREGORIO Anah T
597 GREGORIO Jenneth M
598 GRIMALDO Ivy Joy R
599 GUAN Ina Claire B
600 GUARNES, JR. Felix G
601 GUAYCO Gideon Rey V
602 GUERRERO Alejandro Epifanio D
603 GUERRERO Feliz Marie M
604 GUERRERO Kathleen Phyllis P
605 GUEVARRA Melanie O
606 GUEVARRA Rexford D
607 GUMABON Joseph Ray P
608 GUMATAY, JR. Efren G
609 GUMBAO Ethyl Fe T
610 GUNGON Flora Fe B
611 GUYO Muamar A
612 HAMOY Owlette Christine Jill D
613 HARON Noharddin M
614 HASSAN Najira S
615 HASSIMAN Jalsidrie T
616 HERNANDEZ Elaine May P
617 HERNANDEZ Helen Grace S
618 HERNANDEZ Robert A
619 HERNANDEZ Rosette M
620 HERNANE Herbert B
621 HERRERA Catherine N
622 HIPOLITO Maria Bienvenida Angelica D
623 HORCASITAS Harold M
624 HUECAS Roy V
625 IDAGO-BELINO Irma Gay G
626 IGNACIO Maria Theresa Distajo
627 ILAGAN, IV Ruben R
628 ILUSTRISIMO Beverly F
629 INIHAO Reymund G
630 INOCENCIO, JR. Miguel C
631 ISIDORO Augusto Eric C
632 ISRAEL Johnny W
633 ISRAEL Marilyn M
634 JACOB Jihan A
635 JALA Majesty Eve L
636 JAM Madeline Arezu T
637 JAMBANGAN Bambeth Mahal C
638 JARA Thacher C
639 JARAMILLA Gilbert M
640 JAVIER Doris C
641 JAVIER Kirby G
642 JAVIER Nesly Joy S
643 JAVILLO-AGUILA Lilibeth M
644 JAYSON Renelyn B
645 JIMENEZ Vicente S
646 JONES Ramon Jose E
647 JOSOL Mary Kathleen C
648 JOVEN Melissa Genevieve B
649 JUAN Eric R
650 JUMUAD Harold A
651 JURADO Leonard Peejay V
652 JURILLA Keenan Rhys Y
653 JUSAY Kenneth J
654 KAKIHARA Jiro G
655 KALIM Abdul Rashid P
656 KAPALAC Judemar V
657 KIMAYONG Zozimo P
658 KINTANAR Maria Ysidra May Y
659 LABINE Annie Rose L
660 LABRADOR Felmanda C
661 LABRIAGA Ma. Jessette G
662 LACSON Rosstum C
663 LADERA, IV Antonio V
664 LADORES Ivan Mark S
665 LAGAN Rachel Lee V
666 LAGUDAS, JR. Eulogio L
667 LAGULA Kristina V
668 LAGUNZAD Sam Dominic T
669 LAJA Leah Easter P
670 LALUNA Ma. Isabel Z
671 LAMBO Ma. Celeste R
672 LAMPACAN Andres Arnold W
673 LAO Kristyn Jean R
674 LAOLAO, JR. Antonio L
675 LARA Maria Leah R
676 LARDIZABAL Judy A
677 LARGO Nelson V
678 LARGOZA Salvador Gregorio L
679 LARIBA Ma. Gloria Alphine S
680 LARIOSA Jessie A
681 LASAM-CUMAGUN Mari-grace C
682 LAURESTE Florida L
683 LAURON Manuel Patrick K
684 LAYGO Jennifer E
685 LAZARITO Khristine Kay M
686 LEDESMA Cheryl Marie V
687 LEE Janice C
688 LEE Kelvin Lester K
689 LEE Marjorie B
690 LEGASPI Bellatrix O
691 LEGASPI Joan Michelle M
692 LEUNG Florendo L
693 LEYCANO Andrea B
694 LEYVA Eunika Lesli R
695 LIANGCO Daryl G
696 LICERA Geony P
697 LICERALDE Ma. Elizabeth L
698 LICO Marisse Gay G
699 LIGMAYO Paul D
700 LIM Bryan S
701 LIM Laarni Victoria B
702 LIM Lovely E
703 LIMBING Cheryl T
704 LINCUNA Duke Ramil P
705 LLANES Lawrence Q
706 LOCAYLOCAY Amife Joan C
707 LOCSIN Ryan A
708 LOFRANCO Vicar Loureen G
709 LOGRONIO Jennie Ann T
710 LOPEZ Dhonadette L
711 LOPEZ Michael Angelo O
712 LOPEZ-ORO Corazon Natividad D
713 LORENZO Edmond B
714 LORENZO Neil E
715 LUARDO, JR. Edgardo B
716 LUCERO Rhoan G
717 LUCILA, II Roberto Rafael N
718 LUIS Benjamin S
719 LUMACTOD Joseph Eric C
720 LUMASAC-TORREGOSA Paz L
721 LUMEREZ, JR. Cresente B
722 LYNN Jacques S
723 MABANES April Rose S
724 MACABANDO Samina S
725 MACABAYA Beryl Concepcion O
726 MACAPAGAL Ferdinand L
727 MACAPAGAL Michael T
728 MACAPAGAL Paolo P
729 MACARUBBO Epifania B
730 MACATANGAY Augusto Leon A
731 MACATANGAY Michael Remir H
732 MACAYRA Marianne M
733 MACEREN Lyndon A
734 MACOY Cristine L
735 MACTAL Walter L
736 MADRILEJO Leonides M
737 MAGISTRADO Luis D
738 MAGNABE Kirk Andrew T
739 MAGSOLING Carl A
740 MAGTIBAY Medwin B
741 MAGTUBO Rey E
742 MAHAWAN Benison M
743 MAHINAY Girlie C
744 MAHIPUS Diosdado Angelo Junior R
745 MALABAG Maria Rhodora A
746 MALABANAN Karen M
747 MALANDAC Clariza P
748 MALAPOTE Paul Edgar F
749 MALAYA Milagros Evans I
750 MALIBIRAN Bernard Joseph B
751 MALIGAYA Greg Zacarias M
752 MALLARI Katrina Bianca H
753 MAMBA Maria Rosario S
754 MANABILANG Haroun Bin Omar E
755 MANALASTAS Dennis Gerard F
756 MANALAYSAY Andrea Celene M
757 MANALAYSAY Anna Karin F
758 MANALIGOD Ismael T
759 MANALO Paul Erik D
760 MANANGHAYA Maria Melinda S
761 MANANZAN Monica J
762 MANAOG Mary Hazel C
763 MANAOIS Fely Reina V
764 MANCENIDO Uella Vida V
765 MANGENTE Myra S
766 MANGUBAT Rhea M
767 MANLANGIT Angelo D
768 MANONGAS Queen Ann D
769 MANSILUNGAN Donna D
770 MANTE, JR. Urbano T
771 MANUBAG Amiel Joaquin E
772 MARABE Ridgway C
773 MARAON Leah B
774 MARAPAO Lord V R
775 MARASIGAN Jennifer M
776 MARASIGAN Nerissa L
777 MARGARICO Paul Andre R
778 MARGATE Karl Anthony R
779 MARIANITO Ronel A
780 MARIANO Emmanuel M
781 MARQUEZ Joyce Marie B
782 MARQUIÑO John Mark C
783 MARTELINO Jobert M
784 MARTHO Edgar S
785 MARTIN Karl Francis S
786 MARTIN Nilo N
787 MARTINEZ Amelia Cristina V
788 MARTIZANO Leah T
789 MARZAN Antonio F
790 MARZO Lailani C
791 MASACAL Anwar U
792 MATA, II Reynold DG
793 MATEO Eleanor R
794 MATIAS Dexter G
795 MATILLANO Lovely Concepcion C
796 MAURICIO Paul Vincent R
797 MAXIMO Dinah P
798 MAÑALAC Maria Elizabeth S
799 MEDIANA-ARENASA Jenlyn B
800 MEDRANO Jayferson F
801 MEER Rafael Antonio P
802 MENDOZA Claudie M
803 MENDOZA Exzon B
804 MENDOZA Gerald Al P
805 MENDOZA Justin Christopher C
806 MENDOZA Melinda Cielo C
807 MENDOZA Sunshine D
808 MENDOZA Winston Aris M
809 MENESES Hermielita M
810 MENOR Benjie Benjamin A
811 MENOR Dianna Kathrina C
812 MERCADO Charade B
813 MERCADO Jihan Carla T
814 MESINA Maria Merle M
815 MICIANO Renee Lynn C
816 MIGUEL Genalyn N
817 MILITANTE Karen Leslie N
818 MILLAN Sharon B
819 MIRANDA Romina M
820 MISA John Paul Louis D
821 MISON Rafael Jaime A
822 MOISES Mary Grace D
823 MOLAS Karen Lisette T
824 MOLDEZ Mary Glenn T
825 MOLINA Christian Dawn G
826 MON Maricar F
827 MONJARDIN Marc Lee N
828 MONSALUD Kristin Ayn D
829 MONTEALEGRE Cheryll Grace H
830 MONTEALTO Stahrl Khristine G
831 MONTECER Marie Concepcion A
832 MONTESCLAROS Marius T
833 MONTINO Raul R
834 MONTON, JR. Higino A
835 MORADA Joyce Marie Antoinette L
836 MORALEDA Karla Monica S
837 MORALES April Raine B
838 MORALES Reggie E
839 MORALLOS-OMAR Maria Laarni N
840 MORANDO Jovit R
841 MORCILLA Rea L
842 MOSQUEDA Carmela V
843 MOTRIL Helen Grace A
844 NACARIO Jupiter V
845 NADELA, JR. Raul A
846 NAMALATA Joeffrey D
847 NARAG, JR. Mario Atanasio P
848 NARAWI Jullie Mael M
849 NASDOMAN Johnson P
850 NATINO-FALALIMPA Kristin Marie L
851 NATIVIDAD Christian D
852 NATIVIDAD Maria Cecilia G
853 NAVARRO Ma. Cristina T
854 NEBRIJA Michael V
855 NEMENZO Ann Marie L
856 NEPOMUCENO Alex B
857 NEPOMUCENO Ann Sophie M
858 NERI Mark Peter G
859 NERO Ma. Josenia A
860 NGAMIOTEN Many S
861 NGO Tom Jayson O
862 NICOLAS Kristian A
863 NICOLAS Menilba M
864 NILLO Aquino Martin V
865 NIONES John Paul D
866 NOCETE Randy F
867 NOCHE Kristen G
868 NODQUE Vida Grace Z
869 NOGOY Ivy Grace B
870 NOLASCO Charisma I
871 NOLASCO Leonid C
872 NOLASCO, JR. Ramon C
873 NUEVO Shirley O
874 NUÑEZ Victor Maria D
875 OBIAL Florence Ed T
876 OBTINALLA, JR. Simeon C
877 OBUS Jose Julius P
878 OCAMPO Francis Louie U
879 OCAMPO Nancy M
880 OCAMPO Rory Jorge L
881 OCANG Jeffrey James G
882 OCHE Jonathan S
883 OCHOA-SARMIENTO Faustina Victoria E
884 OLARTE Rosemarie T
885 OLIDAN Maria Karen S
886 OLIVAR Carlo U
887 OMADTO Jeffrey P
888 ONDOY, JR. Fermin D
889 ONG Cezar S
890 ONGKIKO Emil Bien F
891 ONGSIAPCO Carmela S
892 ONIA, JR. Modesto F
893 ONTALAN Frances Mae Cherryl K
894 ORDAS Nathalia V
895 ORENCIO Donna O
896 OROLA Christopher George L
897 OROPILLA Majellyn N
898 ORTEGA Luz Matilde Niña Dorotea T
899 ORTIZ Ianela Carla M
900 ORTIZ Ruel A
901 OSORIO Fair Lady T
902 OVALLES Franchesca T
903 OÑATE Ronald G
904 PABALAN Analyn T
905 PACIO Maricar P
906 PACOLI Marco Antonio G
907 PACURIBOT Jennifer C
908 PADAYAO Renchi May M
909 PADERANGA, JR. Goering George A
910 PADILLA Jennifer G
911 PAGHACIAN Chiqui H
912 PAGKATIPUNAN Joel V
913 PAGLINAWAN Al F
914 PAGLINAWAN George Ahmed G
915 PAGTAKHAN June Ann R
916 PAGUICAN Adrian D
917 PAGULAYAN Amorsito B
918 PAGULAYAN Domiciano A
919 PAGUNTALAN Mark Geoffrey P
920 PAHUGOT-TOLEDO Anatrinel T
921 PALABRICA Gladys Pearl T
922 PALAO-GUARINO Dioanne B
923 PALILEO Anya M
924 PALISOC Marianne R
925 PALMA Richard Alfred N
926 PALMES Jacqueline H
927 PALOMO Alaine Arnolf A
928 PAMFILO Floralie M
929 PAMONAG Ronilo L
930 PANCHO Frela S
931 PANES-POTUTAN Janeth O
932 PANGANIBAN Jefren P
933 PANGAPALAN Glen A
934 PANGHULAN Garry A
935 PANGILINAN Erlyn Aurea T
936 PANIS Rhuel D
937 PAQUEO Alwen M
938 PARADERO-GUZMAN Katharine Freida B
939 PARAOAN Karl Patrick N
940 PARAÑAL Marveluna A
941 PARDIAN, JR. Joseph L
942 PAREJA Randy M
943 PAROJINOG Gemma F
944 PASCUA Charity L
945 PASCUA Ramar Niel V
946 PASCUA Raymond Joseph D
947 PASCUAL Rigor R
948 PASTELERO Miguel Antonio B
949 PASTORES Stella Angela G
950 PATAJO Jose Paolo A
951 PATRIARCA Richard P
952 PAYLIP Rosevee R
953 PEGARIDO Erlyn M
954 PELANDOC Rico S
955 PELAYO Virgie Lynn O
956 PERALTA Arjay N
957 PERANG Dennis C
958 PEREZ Gene Vincent G
959 PEREZ Joseph Brian T
960 PEREZ Ma. Kathryn Joy Q
961 PERILLO Patrick Simon S
962 PESCADOR Jeremy L
963 PESTAÑO Rose Mae F
964 PEÑALOSA Wilfred Ramon M
965 PHUA Marc Achilles M
966 PICHAY Jane Laarni O
967 PILLADO Noreen A
968 PINEDA Cristina Mia S
969 POBLETE Jonathan Sixto M
970 POBRE Christopher H
971 POLITICO Jeicqpoi N
972 PONFERRADA Regidor A
973 PONSARAN Joy Marie B
974 PONSARAN Raizuli A
975 PONTANAL Alpha Carole O
976 PONTEJOS Fiona G
977 PONTIOSO Rhea Mae A
978 PRADO Crystal I
979 PROSIANOS Myrtle B
980 PUA-NG Janelyn S
981 PUASO Garry Franco C
982 PUGOY Roland Jun S
983 PULMA Dionne E
984 PUNO Charles Michael T
985 PURUEL Rojane M
986 PUZON David Julian G
987 PUZON Kaythreene Eunice G
988 QUAN Ryan Jeremiah D
989 QUE Nanette A
990 QUERRER Janice S
991 QUEZON Don-vic P
992 QUIDATO Sherwin Paul E
993 QUILENTE Mary Grace C
994 QUIMPO Maria Kristine A
995 QUINAGAN Cristina Mae G
996 QUINTANA Rizza R
997 QUIRINO-ABALOS Sylvia Maria Anna P
998 QUITAIN Elizabeth F
999 QUITAIN Katherine F
1000 QUIZO Mary Therese P
1001 RABAGO Rey S
1002 RABORAR Eden R
1003 RACHO Melanie V
1004 RADJAIE Tareeq Yahya Timhar A
1005 RAFAL Chris A
1006 RAGASA Jerleah Remedios B
1007 RAGAY Mera Jane C
1008 RAIMUNDO Rhudilyn April B
1009 RAMIREZ Leslie B
1010 RAMIREZ Shaina Anella B
1011 RAMOS Anna Lorem R
1012 RAMOS Gemma Lou P
1013 RAMOS Ginalyn Y
1014 RAMOS Patrick T
1015 RAMOS, III Primo A
1016 RANARA Lilibeth R
1017 RANCES Domnina T
1018 RANCES Esther Rose N
1019 RAPISTA Judy Marie E
1020 RAYMUNDO Vanessa C
1021 RAZON Judy B
1022 RECINTO Alex G
1023 RECIO Marichelle B
1024 RECTA Gracea Hephzibah R
1025 REFAZO Mynoa M
1026 REFE Analyn E
1027 REGIS April Love C
1028 REMIGIO, JR. Glenn A
1029 REMULLA Giselle B
1030 RENEGADO Renato C
1031 RENOMERON Timm B
1032 RESURRECCION Maria Greta R
1033 REUYAN-DABON Joyous S
1034 REVILLA, JR. Quirino P
1035 REYES Antoinette E
1036 REYES Irene Patricia N
1037 REYES John Adelbert L
1038 REYES Johnson G
1039 REYES Kristine Mari I
1040 REYES Mark A
1041 REYES Ron Winston A
1042 REYES Valerie Jill S
1043 RIBAS James Paul J
1044 RICAFORT Evita Mariz M
1045 RICO Ellen S
1046 RIVAMONTE Ryan B
1047 RIVAS Polaris Grace H
1048 RIVERA Augustine A
1049 RIVERA Francinina Gracia I
1050 RIVERA Joy S
1051 RIVERA-ESTRELLA Jaycee R
1052 ROBILLO Ernesto Raphael V
1053 ROBLES Frederick Joe N
1054 RODRIGO, III Romeo G
1055 RODRIGUEZ Karen Joyce D
1056 RODRIGUEZ Niño A
1057 RODRIGUEZ Renel Joseph T
1058 RONGO Marcelino C
1059 ROQUE Anna Kristina D
1060 ROQUE Nelson Silvestre
1061 ROSALES Juvy Grace E
1062 ROSARIO Albert R
1063 ROSARIO Lotis P
1064 ROSELLO Jalika Mae F
1065 ROVERO, JR. Vicente F
1066 ROXAS Chino Paolo Z
1067 ROXAS Johndy B
1068 ROXAS Rea M
1069 RUANTO Chris Paolo R
1070 RUBENECIA Vic Allan E
1071 RUBIO Carl Andrew M
1072 RUIZ Ariel N
1073 RUIZ Cholyn Mae M
1074 RUIZ Jose Meno C
1075 SABARRE Rino E
1076 SABARRE-INFANTE Rosario E
1077 SABERON Paul Richard A
1078 SABIO Fides Angeli G
1079 SADANG Felton C
1080 SADIA Francisco F
1081 SAGA Alvin L
1082 SAGAUINIT Kenneth C
1083 SAGMON Ingrid P
1084 SAGPAEY Jake A
1085 SAHIRON Lilian I
1086 SAIDDI Pherham S
1087 SAJILI Aquino J
1088 SAKANDAL Al-kadam A
1089 SAKKAM Eric Ismael P
1090 SALA Mashur S
1091 SALADAGA Romeo A
1092 SALAZAR Armida B
1093 SALAZAR Didith A
1094 SALAZAR Doris Sharry P
1095 SALAZAR Johnsen A
1096 SALAZAR Roberto A
1097 SALCEDO Karl Andre G
1098 SALE Jenny U
1099 SALEM Ephraim Garnet M
1100 SALIENTE Jacqueline Kate T
1101 SALONGA Christianne Grace F
1102 SALUD Joseph B
1103 SALVA Jocelyn T
1104 SALVE Allan O
1105 SALVO Ariel C
1106 SAMONTE Aren Marie H
1107 SAMPIOR Jorrey T
1108 SAMSON Benjamin R
1109 SAN JOSE Aiza Katrina L
1110 SANCHEZ Bheejhay D
1111 SANCHEZ, II Jay Karel P
1112 SANTIAGO Genesi M
1113 SANTIAGO James A
1114 SANTIAGO Jay Patrick R
1115 SANTIAGO Joann Norpeth M
1116 SANTIAGO Michael M
1117 SANTOS Jhon V
1118 SANTOS Ma. Angelica M
1119 SANTOS Melissa A
1120 SANTOS Michelle Sharon Clara C
1121 SANTOS Phillip Charles G
1122 SANTOS Regina Azucena G
1123 SAQUETON Maria Cresenciana M
1124 SAQUING Sheryl B
1125 SARENAS Jason Kyle M
1126 SARMIENTO Ramon Abraham A
1127 SARNO Michael Angelo C
1128 SATURNINO Charles Ian O
1129 SAYAO Rosemarie B
1130 SECILLANO Jefferson C
1131 SEE Mary Kimberlie C
1132 SEGURA Richelle R
1133 SELPATEN Rodante C
1134 SEMA Omar Yasser C
1135 SENO Andrei P
1136 SERRANO Edward Robinson P
1137 SERRANO Juanito D
1138 SESE John Martin H
1139 SETIAS Lorevi Grace C
1140 SEVA Farrah Mae R
1141 SEVILLA Miracle Joy P
1142 SIA Teresa Geraldine C
1143 SIA, III Quintin P
1144 SIAO Kristin Charisse C
1145 SIASON Alfonso Miguel ML
1146 SIH Davidson Rich L
1147 SILANGA Donnalee G
1148 SILVALA Michael Philip B
1149 SINOGBA Rosalio S
1150 SIRUNO Christian Paul G
1151 SISON Adrian Manuel P
1152 SISON Anna Marin F
1153 SISON Jeffrey Michael F
1154 SISON Sarah Maria Q
1155 SISON-JAVIER Sheila Marie V
1156 SOBERANO Maria Jomah F
1157 SOJOR Alvie Marie L
1158 SOLANO John Albert S
1159 SOLERO Dhalya Grace M
1160 SOLIDON Trina Joy A
1161 SOLIS Carlo Roberto C
1162 SOLIVAS Jasmine L
1163 SOMBRITO Jenny Mae Z
1164 SOMERA Helen Grace J
1165 SORIANO Donna S
1166 SORIANO Marlon U
1167 STA. ANA-LAZARO Bernadeth N
1168 STA. ROSA Karla A
1169 SUBEJANO Z’sa May B
1170 SUBIBI Arneil B
1171 SUELO Risha Mae J
1172 SUGUE Neil Anthony L
1173 SUGUI Louella S
1174 SUGUITAN Sara Jane A
1175 SUMAGAYSAY Nasty Jones S
1176 SUMPO Gilda A
1177 SUSON Mary Ann W
1178 SY Anthony Jordan L
1179 SY Maritess C
1180 TABANERA Lynnicel L
1181 TABLATE Jaemarie N
1182 TADEO Ryan T
1183 TAGABING-GALANO Lovelorn S
1184 TAMAYO Ray Jean D
1185 TAMON Bernard O
1186 TAMPON Aaron L
1187 TAN Art Laurent A
1188 TAN Ashley Lene N
1189 TAN Christine Joy K
1190 TAN Eunice Hyacinth L
1191 TAN Francis Ambrosio S
1192 TAN Norma A
1193 TANDOG Frances Cyrille F
1194 TANGONAN, III Eugenio N
1195 TANGUANCO Alvin B
1196 TAPAYAN Olive Grace A
1197 TAPIA Arvin Q
1198 TAYLAN Kathrine S
1199 TE Marilyn O
1200 TECSON Arlene Grace DV
1201 TECSON Ferdinand C
1202 TED Rosbie I
1203 TELAN Allison Zoila M
1204 TELAN Melissa Anne M
1205 TEMPROSA Charmie Clare T
1206 TEODORO Edison C
1207 TEODOSIO Therese T
1208 TIMBOL Chrysostom T
1209 TIMBREZA Nannette M
1210 TINAZA Leah B
1211 TIPAN Erlinda Candy S
1212 TIU Heli B
1213 TOLEDO Marjorie Ann C
1214 TOLENTINO Mark Kristopher G
1215 TOLENTINO Rommel T
1216 TOLOSA, JR. Benjamin S
1217 TOPACIO Anthony Leonard G
1218 TOQUERO Ismael A
1219 TORBELA Paolo G
1220 TORMES Francy D
1221 TORMIS Maria Carmen R
1222 TORREDES Artemio Jay G
1223 TORRENTIRA Aldrin O
1224 TORREVILLAS Manuenilda Rosario A
1225 TORRIL Jennifer M
1226 TRINIDAD Rudyard Anthony M
1227 TRIPOLI Christopher P
1228 TUAZON, III Jerome Victor C
1229 TUBBAN Henry Junior B
1230 TUMANENG Angeline M
1231 TUPAS Gene Carl L
1232 TUTOR, JR. Fidel S
1233 TY Robert Leo C
1234 UBOD Ronel A
1235 UDARBE Dendo G
1236 UGALINO Karen Anne M
1237 ULANDAY Marcelo N
1238 UMILA, II Benito B
1239 UNTALAN Mialeen C
1240 UY Jerilee V
1241 UY Juan Carlos T
1242 VALDEHUESA-ALFANTE Cathlyn E
1243 VALDEHUEZA Christian L
1244 VALENZUELA Carol G
1245 VALERA, JR. Joseph D
1246 VALLEJO Jenny May G
1247 VARGAS Carlo Alessandro B
1248 VASQUEZ Gerald DL
1249 VEGA Marie Crystal May C
1250 VEHEMENTE Renato R
1251 VELASQUEZ Cielito May T
1252 VELASQUEZ Kaima Via B
1253 VELASQUEZ Shirley G
1254 VELOSO Marius Fitzgerald E
1255 VENERACION Ma. Theresa S
1256 VER Christian Francis C
1257 VERANO Samuel C
1258 VERGARA Manolo Geoffrey C
1259 VERGARA, III Melito A
1260 VILLABLANCA Reymond Q
1261 VILLAMOR Jordana Day V
1262 VILLAMOR Michael Angelo A
1263 VILLAMOR Vimari D
1264 VILLANIA Reynold B
1265 VILLANUEVA Karl Anthony B
1266 VILLANUEVA Monica Isabelle I
1267 VILLANUEVA Wilnerson B
1268 VILLARIÑA Glenn C
1269 VILLASFER Dennis R
1270 VILLEGAS Adelwiza S
1271 VILLEGAS Jonathan C
1272 VILLEGAS, II Enrique C
1273 VILLENA Charito R
1274 VILLENA Katherine C
1275 VILLEROZ Raymond C
1276 VIRAY, III Marcial Joseph M
1277 VISTO Jay M
1278 VITAL Menita J
1279 WADINGAN Lisle D
1280 WATANABE Ayako S
1281 WEE SIT IV Manuel M
1282 WONG Jessa G
1283 WONG Lynvic M
1284 XAVIER Ela R
1285 YABUT Michael C
1286 YADAO, JR. Arturo Y
1287 YAMBAO Marissa C
1288 YANOGACIO Mariel A
1289 YANSON Juvy D
1290 YANTO-VIRAY Catherine A
1291 YEBAN Ryan John T
1292 YPULONG Rhyne A
1293 YU Frederick T
1294 YUMUL Bess Joy M
1295 YUTATCO-SZE Gloriosa P
1296 YUZON-CHAVES Kristine Rosary E
1297 ZALES Marvin L
1298 ZALSOS-UYCHIAT Maria Paz Teresa V
1299 ZAMBRANO Sheryl Jane C
1300 ZAMORA Ysabel Maria J
1301 ZAMORAS Joseph Ian S
1302 ZAPANTA Andrei J
1303 ZAPATA Ronadale M
1304 ZARA-RESURRECCION Jennefer F
1305 ZARAGOSA Jinky C
1306 ZARENO Michelle May I
1307 ZIPAGAN Myra T
1308 ZOLETA Tristan Ysaak M
1309 ZOSA Athena M
1310 ZOSA, III Manuel Eufracio F

2008-2009 Bar exam topnotcher

2009-04-03T20:00:00.000+04:00

Judy Lardizabal of San Sebastian College topped the 2008 Bar examination held over four Sundays last September.

Lardizabal, valedictorian of SSC law school who got her bachelor’s degree in social work at UP Diliman, got a score of 85.70 percent, followed by Mylene Amerol Macumbal of Mindanao State University with 85.65. Third was Oliver Baclay Jr. of the Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) with 85.6.

In her application form at SSC, Lardizabal said she intended to specialize in labor law because “most of the injustices in the Philippines are committed against our very vulnerable workforce.”

Visit 2008 Bar Exam Passers result to see all the names of those who passed.

Bar Exam Result to be released today afternoon

2009-04-03T18:58:00.000+04:00

It was said in the newspaper that the released of the 2008 bar exam results will be released the Supreme Court today afternoon at around 4-4:30 pm.

A total of 6,550 law graduates have filed their petitions to take the 2008 Bar exams; a record 6,533 were admitted. The number decreased to still a record 6,364 after 158 examinees absented themselves from the tests during the first Sunday, while others have dropped out even during the four Sunday spread. Only 6,364 were able to finish up to the fourth Sunday of the exams, Atty. Layusa said.

The Rules of Court provide that “a candidate may be deemed to have passed his examination successfully if he has obtained a general average of 75% in all subjects without falling below 50% in any subject.” In determining the average, subjects in the examinations are given the following relative weights: Political and International Law, 15%; Labor and Social Legislation, 10%; Civil Law, 15%; Taxation, 10%; Mercantile Law, 15%; Criminal Law, 10%; Remedial Law, 20%; and Legal Ethics and Practical Exercises, 5%, for a total of 100%.

I will keep you update for the results as soon as I get the list.

Thank you Francis M.

2009-03-06T09:35:00.000+04:00

Right after I opened my YM, I saw the status of one of my friend saying RIP Francism. So I checked.

It is confirmed that Pinoy master rapper, songwriter, actor and TV host Francis "Kiko" Magalona or Francis M. died this morning at the Medical City Hospital in Ortigas. He was diagnosed with Leukemia last year and had been udergoing chemoteraphy.

He was scheduled to undergo bone marrow transplant but now he is dead.

The 44-year-old Magalona was the son of 1950's legendary actors and celebrity couple Pancho Magalona and Tita Duran.

Launched as a teen star in the 1980s, Magalona's career boomed with his hit rap song "Mga Kababayan," which was included in his album "Yo!" released in 1990.

He was also the voice behind the hits "Ito ang Gusto Ko," "Meron Akong Ano," "Mga Praning," and "Kaleidoscope World."

Francis M left behind his wife Pia Arroyo and eight children--Unna, Nicolo, Francis Jr., Isabella, Elmo, Arkin, Clara, and actress Maxene Magalona.

Thank you Kiko for all the moments you shared with Filipinos. You are my idol!

Piolo Pascual's Controversial Reaction

2009-02-25T10:34:00.000+04:00

Here is the video of Piolo Pascual while watching a boxing fight. Was Manny Pacquiao hit by his opponent? Well, just watch the video and it's up to you to decide.

So what do you think?

$31.1m loan approved to buy Fluorescent lights

2009-02-02T09:42:00.000+04:00

The Asian Development Bank has approved a $31.1 million loan to help households in the Philippines cut power bills by trading incandescent bulbs for more energy-efficient fluorescent globes.

The government said it wants to phase out the iconic bulbs by 2010 as the most effective way to save electricity and reduce greenhouse gases.

Fluorescent lights need just 20 percent of the electricity used by incandescent bulbs and last six to 10 times longer.

The Manila-based lender said Monday its energy-efficiency project will give away 13 million fluorescent globes to homeowners and businesses in exchange for their incandescent bulbs.

Each new light is expected to save customers about $8.50 each year for the next seven to 10 years, or about $100 million in fuel costs annually, it said.

$31.1 millions is a huge amount of money. The intention for the loan was good but Filipinos want to see where this money will go.

Taktak Mo O Tatakbo Eat Bulaga Scandal?

2009-01-29T14:12:00.000+04:00

If before Wowowee show was involved in a scandal, today Eat Bulaga is the topic of scandal in its segment Takatak Mo Tatakbo jackpot round.

The male contestant spun the roulette and it stopped almost midway the 1 million pesos. It was very obvious on the video below that the pointer was pointing on the side of the roullete and the pointers shadow was in between the 1 million and 50,000but Vic Sotto said, “Ako tingin ko rito lamang sa, walang ano ‘to ha lamang sa singkwenta..”

I am not an avid fan of Eat Bulaga nor other show but I'm sure it is not their intention to fool the contestants and soon they will do something about this matter. It's just another mistake of a noon time show.

Robin Padilla will help free ICRC captives

2009-01-29T12:28:00.000+04:00

Malacañang is allowing actor Robin Padilla to help free the three kidnap personnel International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

When asked about the reports actors helping free the captive personnel to the ICRC, said by Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, Padilla is a big help in pursuit of government to safely free the captive as long as he will coordinate with the military troupe in Sulu and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP).

Tthe government also alleged readiness of the former Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Governor Nur Misuari.

Senator Richard Gordon, president of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC), also favored Misuari’s help to rescue the captive personnel of ICRC.

According to Gordon, the doors are open to anyone with goodwill to save two foreigners and an Pilipinang members of the ICRC.

Abu Sayyaf group took the three members of ICRC while making Humanitarian mission in Mindanao.

More youth will stop studying

2009-01-29T11:56:00.000+04:00

Senator and Congressman strictly denied the decision of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to make up to five years the four-year courses in nursing and other courses in college.

The protest was announced by Senator Francis' Chiz 'Escudero and Alan Peter Cayetano, Gabriela party-list Rep, Luz Ilagan, Anak Mindanao party-list Rep, Mujiv Hataman and Parañaque Rep. Roilo Golez.

Escudero said that the timing of CHED adding a year to selected courses in college is untimely because we now facing economic crisis.

Instead adding tasks to students and their parents, CHED should do something on how to raise the quality of education in country without adding more expense.

Cayetano added, the former chairman of the Senate committee on education, that CHED has not conducted a consultation with the affected sectors for implementation of 5-year course.

The number of drop-outs will increase or more students will stop studying because their parents will have difficulties in paying tuition fees.

Other parents who have already paid education plans for their children were also disappointed of the CHED’s decision.

Alabang Boys,?

2009-01-08T14:08:00.000+04:00

The so-called Alabang Boys who was caught by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency or PDEA last Septeber during a buy bust operation.

I have moved to a new house and since then I have no idea what is on the hottest news. It was only yesterday that I've heard about the story of this Alabang Boys. Hmmm...I was annoyed to the lawyer of those Alabang boys Felisberto Verano. It seems to me that he is stupid to make a draft of release order. But unfortunately, hindi nakalusot attorney.

It's just sad that this case will just be put to trash. We know that the accused Richard Santos Brodett, Jorge Jordana Joseph and Joseph Ramirez Tecson are from a rich family. Expect that nothing will happen.

Let's see what will happe next?

Tuyay to appear in court on Christmas

2008-12-22T08:43:00.000+04:00

The Kamikaze guitarist arrested in Dubai for possessing a teaspoon full of marijuana in his luggage when entering Dubai will appear on Christmas day in court.

Led Zeppelin Tuyay, who is currently detained in Terminal Two of Dubai Airport has been in detention since December 4. He was supposed to play at the Rakrakan Festival in Dubai Festival City.

The so called Philippine Woodstuck in Dubai has attracted thousands of fans to watch four of the Philippines hottest bands performed.

The bands who played that nigh were Kamikaze, Bamboo, Pupil with frontman Ely Buendia and rock veterans The Dawn.

Estimated fans of 16,000 gathered to watched the event.

Kamikaze guitarist arrested in Dubai

2008-12-10T14:56:00.000+04:00

Kamikaze guitarist Led Zeppelin Tuyay was arrested in Dubai for marijuana possession on his way to a sell-out show in the emirate.

Tuyay was arrested at Dubai International Airport after the band’s arrival in Dubai last week for this years "Rakrakan Fest" concert in Dubai. He was not able to play during the concert.

His band members played on without him along with other Filipino bands Bamboo, Pupil, and veteran rockers The Dawn.

If found guilty of drug possession, Tuyay could face jail and deportation from the UAE.

I guess nobody warned them that they could never enter Dubai and would be questioned, stripped and scanned if they were suspected of carrying illegal drugs.

Marky Cielo Suicide or not?

2008-12-08T12:49:00.000+04:00

People are still wondering what was the cause of Marky Cielo's death. Did he commit suicide?

Marky Cielo was found dead in his room in their house in Antipolo City around 6 a.m. last Sunday. He was 20 years old.

Marky was a product of GMA-7's StarStruck Batch 3, where he won as the "Ultimate Sole Survivor." He was the first Igorot from Baguio City to join the popular reality-based artista search. Among his batchmates were Iwa Moto, Jackie Rice, and Gian Carlo.

After winning in StarStruck, he appeared in several GMA-7 shows which included Encantadia, Fantastikids, Bakekang, Asian Treasures, Boys Next Door, Kaputol ng Isang Awit, and Codename: Asero. But he was best known as Zaido Green in Zaido: Pulis Pangkalawakan.

He was also a mainstay of the musical-variety show SOP and in the primetime series La Lola.

Marky, who is also known for his dancing prowess, grew up in Butuan City but his family moved to the north.

His remains now lies at St. Peter's Chapel in Quezon City.

Joc Joc Bolante now in Philippines

2008-10-30T22:33:00.000+04:00

After our dinner last night, we watched the news. And as expected, Joc-Joc Bolante's arrival was the headline news.

Joc-Joc arrived in Philippines last Tuesday. There were so many people waiting for him which includes of course reporters from different stations, photographers and militant groups who want Bolante to reveal his knowledge of the Fertilizer fund scam and face the senate hearing.

VIP treatment

But people were wondering why Bolante was sent directly to St. Luke's Hospital and was given a VIP treatment. While the poor who are convicted or were only suspects are sent directly behind bars. There is no question what justice can do for those who are rich. ( But not all of course )

There were already many investigations that the senate had in the past but I don't remember someone being put to jail. What I think about this one is another expenses for the people of the Philippines. Every investigation in the senate means another expenses and nothing will happen. Most of you are corrupt!

Joc Joc is coming to town - Arrest warrant awaits him

2008-10-27T21:39:00.000+04:00

While most kids awaits the coming of Santa Claus in their homes for their gifts this Christmas, the senate and the office of ombudsman is also waiting for the arrival of former Agriculture Undersecretary Jocelyn "Joc-Joc" Bolante. The allegedly mastermind behind the Fertilizer fund scam.

Joc-Joc who sought political asylum in United States because he claims that he has been receiving death threats was denied safe haven in US by the immigration department and is coming back home tomorrow, Tuesday.

Arrest warrant

Senator Manny Villar ordered Gen. Jose Balajadia, the Senate sergeant-at-arms to arres former Agriculture Undersecretary Joc-Joc Bolante upon his return to the Philippines from US tomorrow. The arrest warrant issued by the Senate in December 2005 against Bolante for failing to attend public hearings of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and of the Senate blue-ribbong committee on the P728-million fertilizer fund scam during the thirteenth congress is still valid in fourteenth congress.

PNP General on EURO scandal

2008-10-26T17:43:00.000+04:00

The senate committee on foreign relations chaired by Senator Miriam Santiago is investigating another scandal. And this time a retired top official of the Philippine National Police is in question when he was caught by Russian airport authorities with an undeclared 6.9 million pesos or over 105,000 euros, on his way out of Moscow after attending the Interpol meeting weeks ago.

The committee recommended the criminal prosecution of the PNP delegation for graft, malversation of public funds, and violation of the anti-money laundering law and banking rules.

Obviously this is another act of graft and corruption. The senate is wasting again their time and publics money in investigating this scandal knowing that in the end nothing will happen just like the NBN ZTE deal scandal. Nobody was prosecuted. I am convinced that the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the PNP will cover up the controversy. PNP chief Director General Jesus Verzosa and Ret. Gen. Dela Paz has their own different claims where the money was taken from.

And now with Gen. Dela Paz carrying an undeclared amount of money in Russia. Does he consider himself a General? Did he never think that carrying big sum of an undeclared money to another country is not allowed?

I wonder what will be the next scandal the senate would investigate so that this Euro scandal will stop just like the ZTE. I think it would be Joc Joc Bolante's fertilizer scam when he comes back from the United States this Tuesday. Let's see....

Philippine military pound rebel Muslim positions

2008-08-11T10:19:00.000+04:00

ALEOSAN, Philippines (AFP) — The Philippine military pounded rebel Muslim positions in the south as fighting intensified, eyewitnesses said Monday, after the country's Supreme Court stalled a long-awaited peace deal.

The military shot off a barrage of artillery and mortar fire from a muddy mound next to a highway, while helicopter gun ships swooped low over trees firing rockets, an AFP reporter said.

It was the biggest flare up of violence between the two sides since August 4, when the Supreme Court ordered the government to drop plans to establish an extended Muslim homeland in the southern Philippines.

The decision saw a number of Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) rebels take control of mainly Christian villages and towns in North Cotabato province, a poor farming region in the southern island of Mindanao.

The military says 1,500 MILF rebels have "dug in" in remote villages in North Cotabato province, and the fighting has forced more than 22,000 people from their homes and into government refugee centres.

Despite a government ultimatum to leave, many rebels began building defencive positions in some of the villages surrounded by thick forest.

Military vice chief of staff Lieutenant General Cardozo Luna said the rebels were "well dug" in and more than 2,000 troops were involved in the operation, including artillery units and helicopter gunships.

"The MILF rebels have defied their own leadership and have refused to leave the area," he said.

He said the rebels were supposed to comply with a government deal with MILF leadership to move out of the disputed areas, but "they just re-positioned and occupied other villages."

Authorities have closed the main road linking Cotabato and Davao City in Mindanao, and set up military check points.

Luna said the military operation was not directed against MILF in general, but a group headed by MILF commander Umbra Kato, who is no longer following the orders of the main rebel leadership.

Although no casualty figures have been released, media reports have said at least three government soldiers and an unknown number of rebels were killed.

Armed MILF fighters had occupied areas around a number of Christian towns in north Cotabato last week after the Supreme Court issued an order to suspend a draft homeland accord between the government and MILF.

The 12,000-strong MILF has been waging a 30-year guerrilla campaign for a separate Islamic state in the south of the largely-Christian Philippines.

The rebels signed a ceasefire with the government in 2003 to open the way for peace talks, and both sides said in July they had completed a draft agreement for recognition of MILF's "ancestral domain" in the south.

However, local officials in Mindanao opposed the agreement and filed a suit with the Supreme Court, leading to a suspension of the draft accord and raising new tensions with MILF.

The court has asked the government to submit arguments defending the agreement.

Despite the fighting, local elections in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) proceeded Monday.

Pacquiao knocks down diaz

2008-06-29T19:30:00.000+04:00

Filipino boxing hero Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao knocked out David "Dangerous" Diaz to win the WBC lightweight title before a jampacked crowd at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino today Sunday (Saturday in Las Vegas, Nevada).

During round one, Manny Pacquiao showed good form in his fight against David Diaz.

He was clearly the aggressor in the first round that he hit Diaz with one-two combinations. Diaz often had to shove Pacquiao and hardly one of his punches connected.

Pacquaio sent a battered Diaz down the canvas with a left hook with 26 seconds remaining in the ninth round.

Frank' leaves Pangasinan, moves toward South China Sea

2008-06-23T14:11:00.000+04:00

MANILA, Philippines - After wreaking havoc on many parts of the country, typhoon "Frank" (Fengshen) left the coast of Pangasinan and started moving toward the South China Sea.

The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said that as of 10 p.m., "Frank" was 70 kilometers west-northwest of Dagupan City.

It packed maximum sustained winds of 120 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 150 kph, and was moving northwest at 15 kph.

Pagasa's 11 p.m. advisory indicated that by Monday evening, "Frank" was due 260 km west-northwest of Laoag City. By Tuesday evening it is due 350 km west-northwest of Basco, Batanes.

By Wednesday evening, it said "Frank" is expected to be 490 km north-northwest of Basco, Batanes or 80 km west of Taipei, Taiwan.

Under Storm Signal 3 are Northern Zambales, Western Pangasinan and La Union in Luzon.

Placed under Storm Signal 2 were the rest of Zambales, Tarlac, the rest of Pangasinan, Benguet, Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Norte, and Abra.

Under Signal 1 were Apayao, Kalinga, Mt. Province, Ifugao, Nueva Vizcaya, Nueva Ecija, Bulacan, Pampanga, Bataan, and Metro Manila.

Pagasa warned residents in low-lying areas and near mountain slopes under typhoon signals to take all the necessary precautions against possible flashfloods and landslides.

It also warned those living in coastal areas under signals 2 and 3 against big waves or storm surges generated by "Frank."

Also, Pagasa said "Frank" will continue to enhance the southwest monsoon and bring rains over the Western sections of Southern Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, which may trigger flashfloods and landslides. - GMANews.TV

Typhoon Frank causes chaos

2008-06-22T22:47:00.000+04:00

Tyhpoon Frank left at least 19 people dead and 800 missing in a ferry disaster while an overflowing dam stranded tens of thousands on rooftops. At least 30,000 people living in Iloilo in the central Philippines had scrambled onto rooftops fleeing the rushing water after the man-made dam overflowed.

The worst flooding that hit Iloilo, rescuers have reported that many could be missing or killed, although this could not be independently confirmed, said the city’s acting mayor Jed Mabilog.
“I have received a lot of text messages appealing for helicopters, there are many people trapped on the rooftops,” Iloilo congressman Serg Biron said.

Over 800 missing in Philippine ferry disaster

2008-06-22T22:18:00.000+04:00

CEBU, Philippines (Reuters) - More than 800 people were missing on Monday after a Philippine ferry capsized in a typhoon that has killed scores and left a trail of destruction across the archipelago.

Sulpicio Lines, the owner of the MV Princess of Stars, revised up the number of people missing to 845 after discovering an extra 100 passengers on the ship's manifest. Only four people are so far known to have survived the ferry disaster and they said many did not make it off the ship in time.

Crowded life-rafts sank in cold, storm-tossed seas.

"Many of us jumped, the waves were so huge, and the rains were heavy," a survivor identified only as Jesse told local radio.

"There was just one announcement over the megaphone, about 30 minutes before the ship tilted to its side." "Immediately after I jumped, the ship tilted, the older people were left on the ship."

Four people have been confirmed dead. Children's slippers and life jackets have washed ashore.

There were 724 passengers and 121 crew on board, including at least 20 children and 33 infants.

In the central city of Cebu, where Princess of Stars was meant to dock, dozens of relatives maintained a vigil at a small passenger terminal, waiting for news.

"The last time I heard from my son was on Friday evening when the ship left Manila. He texted to say he was coming home," said Celecia Tudtud, a mother of four.

"I really hope he's ok," she said, wiping away tears.

A spokesman for President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, who flew to the United States on Saturday night, said she would not cut short her eight-day state visit, which includes meeting U.S. President George W. Bush in the White House on Tuesday.

HUGE SWELLS

A coastguard vessel was trawling the waters around the 23,824 gross tonne ferry, which is upside down with only its bow above the waves, trying to confirm reports some passengers had made it to a small island.

"We are hoping more people will have reached the shoreline," Vice Admiral Wilfredo Tamayo, the head of the coastguard, told Reuters.

Princess of Stars ran aground on Saturday but the coastguard was unable to reach it because of huge swells and bad weather caused by Typhoon Fengshen, which crashed into the central Philippines on Friday.

At least two other coastguard vessels were en route to help in rescue efforts and Tamayo said he hoped divers would be able to scour the submerged ship later on Monday.

He said there was no sign fuel was leaking from the ferry but said an oil-spill response team would arrive with one of the two coastguard ships before dawn on Monday.

Princess of Stars sank 3 km (2 miles) from Sibuyan island in the centre of the archipelago.

"WORST DISASTER"

Typhoon Fengshen, with maximum gusts of 195 kph (121 mph), has killed at least 155 people in central and southern Philippines, with the western Visayas region, famed for its sandy beaches and sugar plantations, the worst affected.

In Iloilo province, 101 people were reported dead after flood waters over two meters high engulfed communities, forcing tens of thousands to scramble onto the roofs of their homes.

"Iloilo is like an ocean. This is the worst disaster we have had in our history," Governor Neil Tupaz told local radio.

In neighboring Capiz, more than 2,000 houses were destroyed in the provincial capital and officials were struggling to make contact with communities further afield.

"We got hit real bad this time," said Richard Gordon, the chairman of the Philippines' Red Cross.

After battering Manila on Sunday, Fengshen spun out into the South China Sea on Monday. The storm was en route to Taiwan, where it could make landfall in the next few days, according to storm tracker website www.tropicalstormrisk.com.

More than 30,000 people were being housed in evacuation centers in the centre and south of the archipelago.

An archipelago of more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines is hit by an average of 20 typhoons a year.

(Writing by Carmel Crimmins; Editing by Ralph Boulton) Source: Yahoo News

Ces Drilon kidnapped by Abu Sayyaf in Sulu

2008-06-10T15:29:00.000+04:00

ABU Sayyaf bandits have kidnapped ABS-CBN reporter Ces Drilon and her two assistants in Sulu, demanding P20 million for their freedom.

A military intelligence report said Drilon and two colleagues, cameraman Jimmyfred Encarnacion and a driver, were taken to an area near Mt. Tumatangis in Indanan, Sulu.

Drilon’s team arrived in Jolo, Sulu, from Zamboanga City on Saturday and stayed at the SSC Hostel. They were supposed to interview the one-armed Abu Sayyaf leader Radulan Sahiron.

Sahiron, who carries a $200,000 bounty from the US government, planned the 2004 bombing in Jolo that killed 11 Filipino civilians and an American serviceman and wounded more than 200 others.

Known as Commander Putol because of his amputated right arm, Sahiron is also considered one of the masterminds of the April 2000 kidnapping of 21 foreign tourists in Sipadan.

At 8 a.m. Sunday, Drilon’s team met with Octavio Dinampo, a professor at the Mindanao State University-Sulu, who is affiliated with the Moro National Liberation Front.

Bandits led by Albader Parad and Gapul Jumdail blocked the yellow Tamaraw jeep that Drilon and her team were riding in Kulasi village in Maimbung, Sulu.

Chief Supt. Joel Goltiao, police chief of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, said they were surprised to learn that Drilon was in the area.

He said Sulu Gov. Sakur Tan would head any negotiations with Drilon’s captors.

Intelligence reports put the ransom sought at P20 million, but Goltiao said the bandits had made no demands as of 5 p.m.

He said Drilon arrived Saturday via SEAIR “to cover a special event” on Dinampo’s invitation.

“The following day, Sunday, they were sent a text by Dinampo from the Sulu State University hostel where he is staying. Along the way, they were flagged down by Parad’s group,” Goltiao said.

The police chief said the group that took Drilon was the same one that held Maj. Gen. Benjamin Dolorfino for a few days in Sulu before releasing him in February.

Sources in Camp Aguinaldo said the Armed Forces had offered Drilon two Marine colonels to serve as security, but she declined the offer.

Presidential Adviser on Sulu Affairs Amilbabar Amilasan confirmed that Drilon and her crew were missing, but Navy spokesman Lt. Col. Edgar Arevalo could not say if she had indeed been kidnapped.

A high-ranking official from the Western Mindanao Command declined to give details on the abduction, citing a request from ABS-CBN for a news blackout for the safety of Drilon and her two colleagues.

Drilon has covered skirmishes between the Muslim separatists and government troops before. She also covered the release of Italian priest Giancarlo Bossi by the Abu Sayyaf last year.

Drilon’s group was the second from the TV network to be kidnapped in Sulu. In July 2000, reporter Maan Macapagal and her cameraman Val Cuenca were also kidnapped.

Freelance journalist Arlyn dela Cruz was similarly kidnapped in Sulu while covering the Abu Sayyaf in April 2002. Florante S. Solmerin, Rene Alviar, Joyce Pangco Pañares, Jaime Pilapil.

Poverty Increases

2008-03-07T09:41:00.000+04:00

The Philippines’ poor are expanding by around 1.3 million people every year, as rising food prices and sluggish wage growth mean that more families cannot afford to feed themselves, government data showed.

The bleak picture of 3.8 million people, nearly double the population of Slovenia, slipping below the poverty line in 2003-2006 is an embarrassment for President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, who has paraded her government’s anti-poverty credentials amid a growing economy.

James Wolfensohn, the former president of the World Bank who was visiting the Philippine capital, said figures showing that 33 per cent of the population were poor in 2006, deteriorating from 30 per cent in 2003, were a disappointment. “That of course for me, as a former World Banker, is a challenging statistic to place before you,” he said at a briefing on prosperity in Manila.

The Philippines, viewed by the World Bank as one of Asia’s brightest prospects in the 1950s, has failed to match its neighbours’ economic progress and is wracked by income inequality, with plush condominium complexes overlooking filthy slums in Manila. A hundred or so families control much of the archipelago’s wealth, while 28 million people in 2006, up 16 per cent from 2003, could not scrape together the 42 pesos ($1) a day deemed the bare minimum to get by.

More than 12 million people could not meet the 27.8 pesos a day threshold for food. Economic Planning Secretary Augusto Santos said yesterday that part of the problem was due to rising costs for food and fuel, exacerbated by a hike in the national sales tax, as well as rapid population growth.

The population is currently estimated at 90 million and is growing at an average rate of 1.8 million people per year as President Arroyo, a devout Catholic, emphasises natural family planning over artificial methods of prevention. Last year, economic growth hit 7.3 percent.

Interfaith Rally

2008-03-01T22:38:00.000+04:00

The Philippines demonstrated a great deal of political turnover when the late Ferdinad Marcos was ousted out of Malacañang during the 1986 People Power EDSA revolution. It won the world's attention through its peaceful means of non-violent and prayerful mass demonstration. It made news worldwide and the Philippines topped the headlines as "the revolution that surprised the world".

I thought yesterday's Interfaith rally would have been another world turner. I was on the phone talking to my father and he told me that there were already thousands of people gathered in Makati City and my brother is working somewhere near the rally area.

Former Presidents Corazon Aquino and Joseph Estrada attendance made some religious groups and organizer disappointed, most of them walked out from the rally because it has been agreed upon that no politicians will be allowed to speak on stage.

“Manindigan para sa Katotohanan, Katarungan at Pagbabago” (Stand for Truth, Justice and Change) was the Interfaith rally theme. I saw in the news that the rally was attended by different sectors, youths, different religious groups, wives of those involved in the mutiny, businessmen, former cabinet members, Senator Panfilo Lacson and more.

Of course the event will not be complete without the ZTE NBN deal witness Jun Lozada. While watching him, it surprised me when he reveled that Philippines borrowed an amount of more than US$1.8 billion and Filipinos only knew about the ZTE which was only US$329 million.

The question is where did the rest of the money go? But what I am sure of is that we Filipinos will pay these debts that the Arroyo government had borrowed.

ZTE NBN Deal Cotroversy Poll

2008-02-19T00:22:00.000+04:00

The ZTE National Broadband Network Deal or controversy which started September last year is still until now the Philippines hottest headline news. Everyday I watch Philippine news, more than half of the news is about the ZTE NBN deal controversy.

I am sure that most of us Filipinos have heard about this expose brought up by the former speaker of the house son Joey de Venecia against the former Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos. The young de Venecia was said to be offered a $10 million to back off on the deal to so that the contract for the said deal will go to ZTE.

Months had passed a new whistle blower had come out and revealed everything he knew about the ZTE NBN scam in the person of Jun Lozada.

Let's see what will happen to this investigation or hearing in the senate. So who do u think is lying? Is it Lozada or Abalos?

Cast your vote now and give your comment/opinion.

Josh Hartnett is in Philippines

2007-08-07T23:37:00.000+04:00

Hollywood star Josh Hartnett has arrived in Philippines to shoot his latest movie entitled "I Come With the Rain," which was produced by Central Films and directed by Vietnam's Tran Anh Hung, whose "The Scent of Green Papaya" was nominated for an Oscar Best Foreign Language Film in 1994.

"I Come With the Rain," is his latest upcoming movie which is produced by Central Films and is directed by Vietnam's Tran Anh Hung, whose "The Scent of Green Papaya" was nominated for an Oscar Best Foreign Language Film in 1994.

Filipino filmmaker Maryo J. de los Reyes, had confirmed that several Filipino actresses are playing support characters, like sexy star Thea Aquino, who auditioned and won the role of a stripper. I've seen her in the news and it good role for her...LOL