Cherie Gil: A Woman That Inspires

March 8, 2014, 8:14 pm

≪ Previous: 300 RISE OF AN EMPIRE’s Massive Invasion

Photographed by Jo ann Bitagcol–Cherie Gil is style doyenne Diana Vreeland in FULL GALLOP by MY OWN MANN Prod. running from March 14-23, 2014 at the Carlos P Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza.

Photographed by

Jo Ann Bitagcol & Jude Bautista

Interviewed by

Giselle Tongi

Salon De Ning of the Manila Peninsula was the perfect setting for the press conference of FULL GALLOP, a play about the life of style doyenne Diana Vreeland as portrayed by the one and only Cherie Gil. The play opens on March 14, 2014 at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza. March 14, 15, 21 performances will start at 7pm, March 16 & 23 (Sundays) will start 3pm.

Cherie Gil is photographed in Salon De Ning, The Peninsula Manila as style doyenne Diana Vreeland. FULL GALLOP by MY OWN MANN Prod will run from March 14-23, 2014 at the Carlos P Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Cherie Gil and Bizworld Mktg Mgr Denise Calnea are photographed in Salon De Ning, The Peninsula Manila. Cherie plays style doyenne Diana Vreeland in FULL GALLOP by MY OWN MANN Prod. running from March 14-23, 2014 at the Carlos P Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza. Photo by Jude Bautista

FULL GALLOP by My Own Mann Productions is co-presented by Inquirer Lifestyle, Look Magazine, and The Peninsula Manila in cooperation with Antonio’s Tagaytay, Facial Care Center, The Love Garden, Businessworld, HerWord.com, WhenInManila.com, and Rappler.com.

Cherie Gil and G Tongi w the MEN of Salon De Ning, The Peninsula Manila. Cherie plays style doyenne Diana Vreeland in FULL GALLOP by MY OWN MANN Prod. running from March 14-23, 2014 at the Carlos P Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written by Mary Louise Wilson and Mark Hampton, FULL GALLOP focuses on the life of Diana Vreeland, who stood at the center of American style for five decades. As editor of Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue magazines, and as a member of the International Cafe Society, Diana chronicled the extraordinary people and events of her time. FULL GALLOP is a portrait of this remarkable woman at a turning point in her life.

Cherie Gil is photographed in Salon De Ning, The Peninsula Manila. Cherie plays style doyenne Diana Vreeland in FULL GALLOP by MY OWN MANN Prod. running from March 14-23, 2014 at the Carlos P Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza. Photo by Jude Bautista

FULL GALLOP will have the special participation of Ms. Giselle Tongi. The creative team of FULL GALLOP is composed of Bart Guingona (Director), Joey Mendoza (Set Designer), John Batalla (Lighting Designer), Rajo Laurel (Costume Designer), and Ruben Nazareth (Hair and Make-up).

The creative team for the FULL GALLOP photoshoot are Joan Bitagcol (Photo), Sandy, Higgins, Mark Higgins, Michael Salientes (Styling), Mark and Sandy Higgins (art direction), and Fanny Serrano (Hair and Make-up).

from left: Theater PR Guru Toots Tolentino, Cherie Gil and G Tongi are photographed in Salon De Ning, The Peninsula Manila. Cherie plays style doyenne Diana Vreeland in FULL GALLOP by MY OWN MANN Prod. running from March 14-23, 2014 at the Carlos P Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza. Photo by Jude Bautista

I was there when Giselle Tongi was about to interview one of the most respected and admired actresses in the country. Both were very welcoming in letting me listen and shoot their interview. Since both write for website Rappler, they already have a rapport that other interviews may not have. Cherie Gil is the most articulate and intelligent interview I have been blessed to witness, as G Tongi was the one who drew the best responses from her.

AUGUST OSAGE COUNTY’s Hans Eckstein with FULL GALLOP’s Giselle Tongi photographed in Salon De Ning, The Peninsula Manila. Cherie Gil plays style doyenne Diana Vreeland in FULL GALLOP by MY OWN MANN Prod. running from March 14-23, 2014 at the Carlos P Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza. Photo by Jude Bautista

Their friendship, the wine, the ambience of Salon De Ning allowed Cherie to be herself. G who also makes an appearance in the play, drew out Cherie’s most candid and vulnerable thoughts on work and her personal life. The woman that we see and hear in this interview is perhaps even more inspiring than the style icon she is portraying.

Cherie Gil is interviewed by G Tongi in Salon De Ning, The Peninsula Manila. Cherie plays style doyenne Diana Vreeland in FULL GALLOP by MY OWN MANN Prod. running from March 14-23, 2014 at the Carlos P Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza. Photo by Jude Bautista

–What is it about your devotion to the stage that you keep coming back?

The process, G you know, the camaraderie right? The family that you end up creating after that, the discipline you have to obligate yourself with.

–What is it about Diana Vreeland that fascinates you?

Everything that she sees. How she sees things that is beyond fashion. Her visions of color and art and music and everything else that she sees around her. Her managing her life in her downfalls, how she coped. How she fell and stood up again. Kept going til the day she died. When she was at the last days of her life she looked at pictures maybe thousands of them that at the end she was almost going blind. That’s probably when she said time to go. She dictated her destiny.

My OWN MANN PRODUCTION family w MEN of Salon De Ning, The Peninsula Manila. Cherie plays style doyenne Diana Vreeland in FULL GALLOP by MY OWN MANN Prod. running from March 14-23, 2014 at the Carlos P Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza. Photo by Jude Bautista

–What is it about her that scares you?

Her strength, lets not get so abstract. Her dialogues. (laughs) The words she creates her sentences in such a thorough way. That you cannot miss out a word in the way she structures her sentences. You can normally say her thoughts. If you were to do it, you can summarize her sentence into 4-5 words. But she will go around until she gets to the point. And its very precise. That’s what scares me because grammatically her words don’t come correct. She makes her own. She has a penchant for, a vernacular, which is only hers. That’s what scares me because I don’t want to be unfaithful to that material. That’s what makes her so amazing.

—Bart (Guingona) brought this to you 10 years ago why did you feel on your 50^th birthday it was time to do FULL GALLOP?

That was the closest thing to being reminded of what I could have done after master class. I’m sure there are many other plays that I can discover about women like this one woman plays as challenging. But FULL GALLOP was something I needed to revisit. I wanted to know why Bart really wanted ME to DO it. I wanted to understand why he could think I could even be capable. So part of it is an ego trip. (laughs)

Second it’s a challenge, I needed something to hold on to that would awaken again my discipline, awaken the drive to move forward in my love for acting. I needed another woman to inspire me, put words into me. Hopefully inspire other people, other women as well that’s about more like it. Maybe keep my brain intact for whatever reason, whatever purpose it may serve by continuously memorizing difficult work. Diana talks about it in the play; apparently it’s a disease of the present! Meaning, loss of memory because there are too many cross currents and things like that. You have to keep the brain working.

Manila Bulletin sub editor Ronald Lim and Cherie Gil are photographed in Salon De Ning, The Peninsula Manila. Cherie plays style doyenne Diana Vreeland in FULL GALLOP by MY OWN MANN Prod. running from March 14-23, 2014 at the Carlos P Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza. Photo by Jude Bautista

—How’s your collaboration with Bart? What is it about Bart that you trust so heavily in?

He’s an amazing actor. He did RED. He did other obscure plays. That’s what I like about him he’s always not scared to be brave and stepping beyond the boundaries of what is the norm. Not just commercial musicals these are one act plays HEDDA GABLER. He did ART with my brother and so he’s amazing. I want to know how he dabble the work in this kind of a medium, especially one woman plays how he approaches the process. He’s making me understand that to memorize in the first place is the wrong way to start.

I was quite skeptical because I was worried that there was nothing to work on unless I memorized. ‘Bart I can’t start rehearsing unless I memorize while I was in New York.’ ‘Hindi the words will come to you. You gotta know first once you’re seated in the character, the words will come.’ Then if you miss one word here and there that’s the time he’s more technical about it. You have to be loyal to the material yadada. So yeah, I wana be directed by an actor’s director.

—What experience in your personal life can you relate to most in FULL GALLOP?

Many, you want to go to the profound places? There are a lot of common things between Diana and I like tango! We like to TALK! (laughs) We don’t remember names. But she stayed on track when she discovered her identity. That she could do good and well in what she was asked to do. She never even thought she could be Editor In Chief.

I never thought I was gonna be an actor. Once she was plunged into it she loved it, gave it her best and never stopped doing it. In fact she never studied about it. It was just her innate quality in how she understood people and how she saw things. She gave what she knew to fashion and I through my art, through my acting. Also she gave up a lot of things family, children. But she never deviated from her being a devoted wife. At the same time she also never lost track of who and what she wanted to keep on doing.

from left: FULL GALLOP cast mates Cherie Gil and Giselle Tongi photographed in Salon De Ning, The Peninsula Manila. Cherie plays style doyenne Diana Vreeland in FULL GALLOP by MY OWN MANN Prod. running from March 14-23, 2014 at the Carlos P Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza. Photo by Jude Bautista

—One woman play is all you very challenging material. Are you trying to prove something to yourself?

Yeah of course only to myself. I can still grow make or break according to my standards. And I’m scared shit. Did I say shit?

–Does Cherie Gil doubt herself?

G! Kungyari ka pa! That’s because she knows more about me. Duh! And all the viewers and readers of Rappler. I’m just human G! Maybe that’s why we want to do these things. You’re one of them people who just wana keep on going. I told you many times G. Rubbing shoulders with you keeps me inspired because you keep going. You wana keep n learning.

Cherie Gil is photographed in Salon De Ning, The Peninsula Manila toasting interviewer and cast mate Giselle Tongi. Cherie plays style doyenne Diana Vreeland in FULL GALLOP by MY OWN MANN Prod. running from March 14-23, 2014 at the Carlos P Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza. Photo by Jude Bautista

— This is about YOU

That means that’s also where I’m at I wana keep learning I wana keep growing. I wana keep testing myself I wana do thater work all the time, makes me feel alive. We talked about this. It obligates me to be disciplined.

–Fake it til you make it.

Diana says that I think I understand it. Only you can decide what is true and what is real. And what is believable. You dominate when you’re on stage. You have to dominate. You should never let anyone know how freaked out you are. That adrenaline rush is what gets you out there. There’s this exercise we know right? The magic pocket; I am the actor I am the deliverer. I am the one bringing out the story and I AM right. No one else knows what I’m doing. No one else knows my script.

And Maria said that. Dominate your audience in a most harsh way. I like these people e. Because I feel that I have the ability to make people believe my world even if it’s just for a moment of pretend. Fake it til you Make it.

from right Events Coordinator Ayam Eckstein, Cherie Gil, AUGUST OSAGE COUNTY’S Hans Eckstein photographed in Salon De Ning, The Peninsula Manila as style doyenne Diana Vreeland. FULL GALLOP by MY OWN MANN Prod will run from March 14-23, 2014 at the Carlos P Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza. Photo by Jude Bautista

–You’re always drawn to these kinds of women what about these empowered women that you’re really drawn to?

Maybe in fact I am probably it takes a lot of balls for a girl to say I need. Imagine the paradox of that I said it takes a lot of balls for a girl to say I need. I got separated 5 years. Maybe it’s also a personal journey. I’ve been alone, I’m not gonna cry. We do that on the side behind closed doors. Maybe I’m convincing myself there’s another way to find joy in being alone. These women struggled til the day they died…alone.

And so maybe I’m imbibing women who can teach me how to do that. I’m tired I’ll cry na. (laughs) No self pity, no self pity but I’m still a girl. A lot of people have a misconception that a woman may not be vulnerable that’s why I have friends, good friends. I’m not gonna lie. I am using this part of my journey to be able to invite at least a little bit of that strength. Only with you I’m honest, you got that out of me G! (laughs)

↧

We Kiss Deeply

March 16, 2014, 10:48 am

≫ Next: PASINAYA Molds the Youth

≪ Previous: Cherie Gil: A Woman That Inspires

At Shangrila Boracay: Photography by Sara Black, creative direction and styling by Luis Espiritu Jr., makeup by Bobby Carlos, associate styling by Donna Gonzales Lim and Rudolph Leonor, modeled by Jo Ann Bitagcol for METRO WEDDINGS January 2013.

A poem by

Jude Bautista

We kiss deeply like never before

Your lips are incredible

And I lose myself in them

Tongues swirling, searching

Loins burning, yearning

The taste of you is hot

Like a fruit freshly plucked

Flowing juices, orgasmic faces

I love and lust for you

More than you feel for me

For you are My Passion.

↧

PASINAYA Molds the Youth

March 16, 2014, 2:45 am

≫ Next: PASINAYA Music and More

≪ Previous: We Kiss Deeply

Phil High School for the Arts Sanghiyas Pangkat Mananayaw nail facial expression along with choreography in Tinikling. Photo taken during PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

Seeing a kid buried in gadgets these days with hardly any idea of their Filipino heritage is quite common. Kids going to exclusive schools sometimes have difficulties speaking in Filipino. Whether rich or poor, they don’t get exposed to traditional Pinoy culture and art. And if they were not exposed how would you expect them to have a clear sense of their Filipino identity?

And then there are 9-year-old kids from the Phil. High School of the Arts dancing the tinikling, or pandanggo with perfection. Even their facial expressions are able to convey the mood and liveliness of the dance down to that trademark sweet smile that Filipinas are known for.

The Philippine High School for the Arts was among many schools that figured prominently at the recently concluded PASINAYA festival at the CCP, March 16, 2014. Now on its 10^th year, PASINAYA is a multi arts festival showcasing Filipino dance, music, visual arts, theater and even award winning short films like LUPA from Emmanuel Del Cruz. The Sanghiyas Pangkat Mananayaw and their PHSA Music Graduating Students represented PHSA.

Barkadas pose in front of PASINAYA sign at CCP last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

PASINAYA is a very affordable, practical way of getting kids to see what Pinoy music, dance and the arts is all about. What has made PASINAYA immensely popular is the affordability of the tickets. The great crowds took advantage of a donation based ticketing price of P50 or less. A P300 fast pass allows you to skip lines and get the best seats to all the shows.

The pricing actually allows the mass market to watch a show by Ballet Phil, Ballet Manila, Philippine Madrigal Singers, Tanghalang Pilipino, Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group, Bayanihan, PPO, which may total in the thousands of pesos if scheduled separately.

Phil High School for the Arts Sanghiyas Pangkat Mananayaw’s graceful Pandanggo. Photo taken during PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

There were many prestigious universities and schools who gave dance performances: UP Dance Company, Saint Benilde Romancon Dance Company, Rizal Technological University Dance Troupe, Renee Grace Rose Villa School of Performing Arts, Diwayanis Dance Theater (Batangas State University), Sinig Kumintang ng Batangas Kidz, Lyceum Dance Company, CEU Dance Troupe, Iskolar Dance Company with the Iskolar Calbayog Rondalla, Bulacan State University Lahing Kayumanggi Dance Troupe, Kahayag Dance Company, Kaloob Music and Dance Ministry, Sindaw Philippines Performing Arts Guild and CCP Dance School BP Kids.

Ballet was also very well represented with Ballet Phil, Ballet Manila, Halili Cruz School of Ballet, Maqiling Ballet, and Claraval School of Ballet.

Internationally heralded dance troupes included Salinlahi Pangkat Mananayaw, Lahing Batangan Dance Troupe, Phil Barangay Folk Dance Troupe, Nicola Ayoub Dance Performance, Airdance, Batang Ramon Obusan, Sining Bulakeño, Seven Dance Company, Mga Anak ni Inang Daigdig.

If the gala was any indication, there is reason to hope in the Filipino youth. These are kids who loudly applauded Baao Children & Youth Choir who recently won the NAMCYA-National Music Competition for Young Artists. There was a rousing reception of the Ramon Obusan Flokloric Group performance of ‘Solotan’ a Maranao Suite.

Tanghalang Pilipino’s SANDOSENANG SAPATOS cast at PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Other CCP Resident Companies who performed and their pieces in parenthesis: UST Symphony Orchestra (Musical Thomasian), Philippine Ballet Theater (Serye at Sayaw), Tanghalang Pilipino (Sandosenang Sapatos), Ballet Philippines (Art of Dance), Philippine Madrigal Singers (Golden Voices), Bayanihan National Folkdance Company (Fiesta Folkloriada), Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra (Sound Kaleidoscope). If we can get all of our youth to love performances and art forms like these, our country will have a brighter future.

CCP Artistic Dir Chris Millado addresses the crowd after long standing ovation at PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

The educational role of the festival is not lost on CCP artistic director Chris Milllado who has expanded the activities with Metropolitan Museum of Manila, 1335 Mabini, Mabuhay Restop, Bahay Tsinoy, NCCA Gallery, Casa Manila, Museo Pambata, National Art Gallery, Museum of the Filipino People.

Museo Pambata is a popular interactive museum offering educational exhibitions. Various subjects are highlighted such as Philippine history, ecology and the environment, the universe, the human body and the community.

Jeepney Tours brought visitors to different sections of the extra mile. This refers to the culture mile between Intramuros and CCP and all the establishments in between. Specialized colorful jeepneys provided free transportation from the CCP to these different sections.

For further details check the CCP website: http://culturalcenter.gov.ph/

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Barkadas pose in front of PASINAYA sign at CCP last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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↧

PASINAYA Music and More

March 17, 2014, 5:45 am

≫ Next: PASINAYA’s Cultural Mile

≪ Previous: PASINAYA Molds the Youth

PPO’s Music Director Olivier Ochanine conducting Philippine Philharmonic at PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

In a rousing evening gala, CCP Artistic director Chris Millado had to raise his voice above the raucous applause, “Nais nating pa salamatan ang mga partners natin. This year napaka special ng PASINAYA dahil nagkaroon tayo ng mga partner Museums! Lumawak ang PASINAYA sa iba’t ibang cultural institutions sa Maynila.”

from left CCP Artistic Dir Chris Millado and PPO Principal Conductor Olivier Ochanine at PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Lyceum Cultural & Artistic Dir. Rob Hayden, Ballet Phil Artistic Dir. Paul Alexander Morales, Tanghalang Pilipino Artistic Dir Nanding Josef, Teatro Lasalliano Artistic Dir Nazer Salcedo and MADZ Musical Director Mark Anthony Carpio. Photo taken during PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Tanghalang Pilipino Actors present NAMCYA winner Baao Children & Youth Choir performed at PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

The speech was given after a spirited performance by the NAMCYA winner Baao Children & Youth Choir, Ramon Obusan Flokloric Group Tanghalang Pilipino Sandosenang Sapatos cast , Ballet Philippines, Philippine Madrigal Singers and Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra.

NAMCYA winner Baao Children & Youth Choir performed at PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

The PASINAYA festival was held last March 16, 2014 at the CCP. Now on its 10^th year, it has attracted thousands to appreciate Filipino music, dance, theater, award winning short films and even food.CCP Artistic Director Chris Millado described, “The PASINAYA is a multi-arts festival so it involves all the arts. Not only the 7 arts but festivals, street dances, markets, food trucks and even popular entertainment at some point.”

The success of the fest has expanded to include Metropolitan Museum of Manila, 1335 Mabini, Mabuhay Restop, Bahay Tsinoy, NCCA Gallery, Casa Manila, Museo Pambata, National Art Gallery, Museum of the Filipino People.

What the PASINAYA does according to Millado is build momentum for other events as well, “Now we even have Museums and exhibits. Of course through out the year we have genre specific festivals, orchestra festival, dance festival, guitar festival. This builds audiences to these specialized festivals.”

Specifically two up coming music events have been helped by the PASINAYA crowds:

FLUTOPIA ‘FLUTE REVELRIES’ FESTIVAL 2014 March 27-29 and TRIBUTE TO THE THOMASIANS on March 30.

FLUTOPIA ‘FLUTE REVELRIES’ FESTIVAL 2014 which runs from March 27-29 at the CCP Little Theater. The first international flute festival in the country, Flutopia ‘Flute Revelries’ Festival 2014 promises to be an exciting event which include workshops, masterclasses, flute warm ups, meditation and yoga for musicians, flute repair by Marumatsu technicians from Japan, flute industry exhibits, lobby concerts and a gala concert at the Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino. Special guests include Chilean-born renowned flutist Viviana Guzman and Thai flutist Kalaya Phongsathorn.

The Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra performed at the Gala of PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

TRIBUTE TO THE THOMASIANS is a concert tribute featuring internationally renowned conductor, Jae Joon Lee and the UST Symphony Orchestra on March 30, 2014

Phil Madrigal Singers perform a special version of Coconut Nut at PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

There were many musicians/groups during the PASINAYA Festival among them:

Citizen’s band of Dasmariñas Cavite, Kabataang Gitarista, Marimba Ensemble, CCP Maria Scholars of Music, PHSA Music Graduating Students, Celso Espejo Rondalla, NY-MNL Musical Theater Workshop Participants, Flutopia Flute Orchestra, Young Piano Ensemble from Piano Teachers Guild of the Philippines, ALERON: Winner AOV Intl. Choral Festival, Viva Voce, USTEMUNDO.

Theater Productions who joined include Iloilo Primo Galaw (New Yorker in Tondo), Samahang Nazareno Inc. (Ang Pagbibinyag ni Juan Kay Vristo sa Ilog Jordan), Kids Acts Phil (The Wizard of Oz), A Gathering of Violists, Virgin Labfest staged Reading ( Reunion), Dulaang Sipat Lawin (ang Paghihintay kay Godo), Artists Inc (Bakunawa), Teatro Baguntao (May Katuwiran ang Katuwiran), Lipa Actors Company (Segunda Bisperas ng Kalayaan), Dulaang Ganap (Biyaheng K), Sipat Lawin Ensemble (A Wake: Kids Killing Kids-A Battallia Royale Retrospective), KOLAB Co. (@homeand Faust _as), Supervoice Music and Theater Foundation Inc (Pabaon), Teatro Expedicion De Filipinas Boy Bangs The Musical),

Prestigious schools theater productions include: PUP Sining Lahi Polyrepertory ( Viva El Teatro Porvenir), Mapua Tekno Teatro (Bro), Tanghalang Ateneo (Ang Bakkhai), University of the East Drama Company (Isperekengkeng Isperekangkang), Dela Salle College of Saint Benilde Dulaang Filipino (Pierre Romancon), Harlequin Theater Guild (Fair Hair Woman), Philippine Stagers Foundation (Bonifacio Isang Sarswela), Ateneo Entablado (Juan Tamban), Ateneo Theater arts Program (The Zoo Story), Teatro Lasalliana (Josephine), Dulaang Perpetual (Saboteurs),

For further details check the CCP website: http://culturalcenter.gov.ph/

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from right Writer Ibarra Mateo and PPO Principal Conductor -Olivier Ochanine at PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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↧

PASINAYA’s Cultural Mile

March 18, 2014, 2:18 am

≫ Next: Best of Pinoy Ballet in PASINAYA

≪ Previous: PASINAYA Music and More

Ramon Obusan Flokloric Group perform ‘Solotan’ a Maranao Suite at PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

For the past 10 years PASINAYA, a multi arts festival has attracted thousands to the CCP to appreciate Filipino music, dance, theater film and food. For one day a year, a greater number of people can watch performances from Tanghalang Pilipino, Ballet Philippines, Philippine Madrigal Singers , Bayanihan National Folkdance Company , Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra for the price of P50.

Crowds gather to watch the CEU Dance Troupe at PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Barkadas pose in front of PASINAYA sign at CCP last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

More than 3,000 artists and 300 institution-based, community-based and school-based artistic groups participated. Other CCP Resident Companies who performed were: UST Symphony Orchestra, Philippine Ballet Theater, NAMCYA winner- Baao Children & Youth Choir and Ramon Obusan Flokloric Group.

More than 3,000 artists and 300 institution-based, community-based and school-based artistic groups participated during PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Partner establishments from right: Metropolitan Museum Dir Sandra Palomar Kwan, Mabuhay Rest Stop GM Gina Lumawig, BAHAY TSINOY director Meah Ang See, Chief Tourism officer of Intramuros Administration Sandra Martinez, Museo Pambata Executive Dir Maricel Montero, Jeepney Tours Managing Director Clang Garcia and NCCA Culture and Arts officer John Paul. Photo taken during PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

The PASINAYA festival held last March 16, 2014 has become so well attended it expanded to Metropolitan Museum of Manila, 1335 Mabini, Mabuhay Restop, Bahay Tsinoy, NCCA Gallery, Casa Manila, Museo Pambata, National Art Gallery, Museum of the Filipino People.

from left: Ballet Phil Artistic Dir. Paul Alexander Morales, Tanghalang Pilipino Artistic Dir Nanding Josef, Teatro Lasalliano Artistic Dir Nazer Salcedo, MADZ Musical Director Mark Anthony Carpio and CCP Artistic Dir Chris Millado. Photo taken during PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

CCP Artistic Director Chris Millado shared the positive feedback from their partners, “They were looking at the people from the stage they were really proud to be a part of it. Initially when I made a round of the museums the crowds were very very encouraging especially BAHAY TSINOY who were overwhelmed by it, the Metropolitan and National Museum.”

The crowds attracted to the show in CCP and the proximity of the partner museums was a successful combination, “We hope to come up with more collaborations like this not only once a year but also innovate with some other activities that would bring in other interest groups. For example what if Museums collaborate to attract 30 somethings. We can transform these museum spaces into after hours party events. There are many other things in the pipeline of collaboration and making different institutions work together so everyone benefits in this cross marketing and cross audience development efforts.”

Nora Aunor and Ricky Lee at Mabuhay Restop, a PASINAYA festival partner establishment. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

THE ROXAS BOULEVARD-ERMITA STRIP

Metropolitan Museum of Manila has a variety of thematic exhibitions ranging from pre colonial artifacts, religious icons and late 19^th century pantings, as well as contemporary artistic expressions such as National Artist Napoleon Abueva’s “Abueva: the Power of Form,” “Winter Garden: the Exploration of Micropop Imagination in Contemporary Japanese Art,” the semi-permanent exhibit “Philippine Contemporary Art Exhibition,” and the Met’s permanent exhibits of gold and pottery from the 8th to 13th century, religious art pieces, and paintings by Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo.

1335 Mabini is one of the newest contemporary Art spaces in Manila. They feature engaging works by contemporary artists from here and abroad. They are currently exhibiting Mark Salvatus “Several Souvenirs” and Sofia Goscinski: “I Love You”.

Mabuhay Restop is a Gawad Kalinga social enterprise which seeks to promote social tourism and entrepreneurship. Located in Rizal Park guests get to enjoy Filipino food culture and the arts.

From right Rak f Aegis cast member Phi Palmos who is also a co screenwriter of Filmmaker Emmanuel Dela Cruz, Ching Danseco and James Peñera. Photo taken during PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Gian Magdangal (seated center) surrounded by ladies from left: Celine Fabie (Patsy Patchochay), CJ Mangahis (Mary Walter) and Tricia Amper Jimenez (Hanna San). KATY the musical press con at Mabuhay Restop, a PASINAYA festival partner establishment. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

KALAW INTRAMUROS STRIP

Bahay Tsinoy is a lifestyle museum that focuses on the history and achievements of the Chinese Filipino community in the context of Philippine history, art and culture. Some Chinese games were conducted like Te Tit, Chinese Dama and Chinese Jackstones.

NCCA Gallery current exhibit is in line with the Calidad Humana project. NGITI features entries for the painting contest that aims to capture the essence of Filipino human quality as expressed through smiles.

Casa Manila creates an atmosphere that allows visitors to travel to the past. You can experience the life if an ilustrado in 19^th century Philippines through the recreation of a bahay na bato in Binondo, Manila.

Photo of Ramon Orlina sculpture as part of I AM FILIPINO exhibit at Mabuhay Restop, a PASINAYA festival partner establishment. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Partner establishments from right: Metropolitan Museum Dir Sandra Palomar Kwan, Mabuhay Rest Stop GM Gina Lumawig, BAHAY TSINOY director Meah Ang See, Chief Tourism officer of Intramuros Administration Sandra Martinez. Photo taken during PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

NATIONAL MUSEUM STRIP

National Art Gallery offers a chance to experience up close the major masterpieces in Philippine visual arts from the Spanish colonial period to post world war years.

Museum of the Filipino People is the home of various galleries that displays archaeological and ethnographic exhibitions. They come from different periods of Philippine history and the diverse social and cultural practices throughout the archipelago.

For further details check the CCP website: http://culturalcenter.gov.ph/

Jeepney Tours brought visitors to different sections of the extra mile. This refers to the culture mile between Intramuros and CCP and all the establishments in between. Specialized colorful jeepneys provided free transportation from the CCP to these different sections.

JC Buendia’s work as part of I AM FILIPINO exhibit at Mabuhay Restop, a PASINAYA festival partner establishment. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Aicelle Santos and Gian Magdangal at Mabuhay Restop, a PASINAYA festival partner establishment. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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From right: CCP Artistic Dir Chris Millado, Filmmaker Emmanuel Dela Cruz, Ching Danseco and James Peñera. Photo taken during PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Harry Hawson of Maverick by Design participated in the I AM FILIPINO exhibit at Mabuhay Restop, a PASINAYA festival partner establishment. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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From right: CCP Artistic Dir Chris Millado and Choir Master Lorenzo Gealogo during PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Future National Artist Nora Aunor poses with Mabuhay Restop staff, a PASINAYA festival partner establishment. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Best of Pinoy Ballet in PASINAYA

March 20, 2014, 5:13 am

≫ Next: Pinoy & French Stars at HKIFF

≪ Previous: PASINAYA’s Cultural Mile

Carissa Adea and Richardson Yadao of Ballet Phil perform an excerpt from ROCK SUPREMO at PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

How else will anyone be able to see the most renowned Ballet companies in the country perform in one place? PASINAYA fest is one of the big events to bring Ballet Philippines, Ballet Manila, Halili Cruz School of Ballet, Maqiling Ballet, Claraval School of Ballet together and bring them to a wider audience.

from left: Ballet Phil Artistic Dir. Paul Alexander Morales, Tanghalang Pilipino Artistic Dir Nanding Josef, Teatro Lasalliano Artistic Dir Nazer Salcedo and MADZ Musical Director Mark Anthony Carpio. Photo taken during PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Ballet Phil performed w Tanghalang Pilipino actors at PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Held last March 16, 2014 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines PASINAYA is a multi arts festival, which gathers Filipino music, dance, theater, award winning short films and even food. The affordability of P50 allows more people to watch all these different shows, especially ballet.

Ballet Philippines’ Katherine Trofeo and Jean Marc Cordero excerpt ROCK SUPREMO at PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

CCP Artistic Director Chris Millado said, “That’s the whole idea, its audience development. The message we’re sending out there is its accessible. In fact the P50 is a suggested donation. You don’t have to pay anything if you like. You can pay 1 peso, 20 pesos, 50 pesos, you can pay more if you like. The whole idea is to communicate to audiences that there is labor there is effort into creating art and reaching in your pockets for 50 pesos is your way of supporting the arts and making it sustainable and supporting the artists who create it.”

Ballet Philippines during finale at PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

PASINAYA according to him also encourages more people to seek out other shows in the CCP the rest of the year. Ballet Philippines in fact will have a restaging of the critically praised LA REVOLUCION FILIPINA whose music was composed by Ryan Cayabyab. Jean Marc Cordero will reprise his role as Mabini.

Internationally heralded dance troupes in PASINAYA included Salinlahi Pangkat Mananayaw, Lahing Batangan Dance Troupe, Phil Barangay Folk Dance Troupe, Nicola Ayoub Dance Performance, Airdance, Batang Ramon Obusan, Sining Bulakeño, Seven Dance Company, Mga Anak ni Inang Daigdig.

Tanghalang Pilipino actors at PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

For further details check the CCP website: http://culturalcenter.gov.ph/

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from left: Ballet Philippines’ Katherine Trofeo with Jean Marc Cordero and Richardson Yadao with Carissa Adea excerpt ROCK SUPREMO at PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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2nd from left in black: Ballet Phil Artistic Dir. Paul Alexander Morales with Ballet Phil dancers. Photo taken during PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Carissa Adea (in pink) Ballet Phil performed w Tanghalang Pilipino actors at PASINAYA festival in CCP. The 10th edition expanded to the National Museum and Metropolitan Museum and other establishments last March 16, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Pinoy & French Stars at HKIFF

April 4, 2014, 5:06 am

≫ Next: Education Is Key to Recovery

≪ Previous: Best of Pinoy Ballet in PASINAYA

Ms. Catherine Deneuve at the Red Carpet Opening Ceremony. Photo provided by FDCP.

From FDCP:

The 38^th Hong Kong International Film Festival (HKIFF) had it’s first-ever “Philippines Day” last March 30, 2014. The whole-day event revolved around the Hong Kong premieres of the films “On the Job,” directed by Erik Matti, a sensation at the 2013 Cannes Director’s Fortnight, and “Kimmy Dora: Ang Kiyemeng Prequel,” directed by Chris D. Martinez, the latest chapter in a smashingly successful comedy franchise, as well as the presentation of the short-film “The Heart of the Storm.” Made by the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), “The Heart of the Storm” chronicles the recent tragedy of typhoon Haiyan and the devastation that fell upon Tacloban City last November 2013. Following the screening of the short-film, the HKIFF society presented a donation of HKD 25, 000 to the Philippine Red Cross. A portion of ticket sales will be donated for the relief of the typhoon victims.

At the Red Carpet Opening Ceremony, (L to R): HKIFF Executive Director Roger Garcia, Piolo Pascual, Eugene Domingo, Joel Torre, and FDCP Chairman Briccio Santos. Photo provided by FDCP.

Filipinos fill the Grand Theatre at the Philippines Day event of the HKIFF. Photo provided by FDCP.

FDCP Chairman Briccio Santos introduced the short-film to the audience in attendance and broke the news of the upcoming “International Film Commission’s Conference on Climate Change” that the FDCP has organized for June 25 to be held in Manila, Philippines. The hope is that this important conference will induce more awareness among film counterparts and the audiovisual communities and organizations world-wide on the changing patterns of our climate. He concluded, “After all, this is our planet and we are all stakeholders in it. We all need to preserve and protect to insure its well-being. “

FDCP Chairman Briccio Santos and acting Philippine Consul General Ms. Rosanna Villamor-Voogel (1st and 2nd from left, respectively) accept the donation from HKIFF Executive Director Roger Garcia and Ms. Catherine Deneuve (1st and 2nd from right, respectively). Photo provided by FDCP.

Executive Director of the HKIFF Roger Garcia and special guest Ms. Catherine Deneuve presented the donation to Chairman Briccio Santos and Ms. Rosanna Villamor-Voogel, the acting Philippine Consul General. Ms. Catherine Deneuve is a legendary French actress most known for her work in films such as “Le Dernier Métro” and “Indochine.” Ms. Denueve was extended an invitation by Chairman Santos to grace the opening of the “International Film Commission’s Conference on Climate Change.” Also on stage were Filipino stars Piolo Pascual and Joel Torre from “On the Job,” Eugene Domingo from “Kimmy Dora: Ang Kiyemeng Prequel”. Piolo and Eugene came straight from the Asian Film Awards where Eugene was nominated for Best Actress for her work in “Barber’s Tales”. Mimi Juareza from “Quick Change” was also nominated in the same awards night.

At the Red Carpet Opening Ceremony, (L to R): Piolo Pascual, Eugene Domingo, and Joel Torre. Photo provided by FDCP.

Ms. Catherine Deneuve (center) speaks at the donation ceremony. Photo provided by FDCP.

“The Heart of the Storm” short film is an 8 minutes long documentary aimed at providing viewers with a firsthand account of the recent tragedy. Taken from footage captured by the FDCP team during a trip to the Leyte provinces to witness the aftermath. It shows the daunting task of rebuilding the lives of the victims, which is a storm in itself. The documentary is meant to give the public a glimpse of what lies ahead for a population still rearing from collective shock and many uncertainties.

At the Red Carpet Opening Ceremony, (L to R): Piolo Pascual, HKIFF Executive Director Roger Garcia, Joel Torre, and FDCP Chairman Briccio Santos. Photo provided by FDCP.

Eugene Domingo (3rd from right) and Filipino fans at the Philippines Day event. Photo provided by FDCP.

Executive Director of the HKIFF Roger Garcia conceptualized the “Philippines Day” event hoping to bring focus to Filipino films gaining popularity worldwide. At the same time provide new Filipino films for the numerous Filipinos based in Hong Kong. Filipinos filled up the venue from communities based in Hong Kong. They showed up to the red carpet and premiere screenings to see their home-grown stars, and even stayed post-screening for the special Q&A sessions with the films’ actors.

FDCP Chairman Briccio Santos and Catherine Deneuve at the Red Carpet Ceremony of the Philippines Day. Photo provided by FDCP.

The 38^th Hong Kong International Film Festival takes place from March 24 to April 7 primarily at the Hong Kong Cultural Center and then other nearby venues. The festival’s special section “The Glories of Filipino Cinema” included Jun Robles Lana’s “Barber’s Tales,” Lav Diaz’s “Norte, The End of History,” Elwood Perez’s “Otso,” Eduardo Roy Jr.’s “Quick Change,” and Brillante Mendoza’s “Sapi.”

The Red Carpet at the Philippines Day event of the HKIFF at the Hong Kong Cultural Center. Photo provided by FDCP.

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Education Is Key to Recovery

March 7, 2014, 4:50 am

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from left: Red Cross (Phil) Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon, Red Cross (China) EVP & Intl Red Cross VP Dr. Baige Zhao and Red Cross (HK) Deputy Chair Madame Ivy Wu Kwok Sau-ping test out the brand new desk and chairs donated by HK Red Cross at San Jose Central School in Tacloban. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 by Jude Bautista.

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

Tacloban, Leyte has received enormous amounts of relief goods. But for anyone who has visited what was left of the city after typhoon Yolanda, the signs of destruction still scar the landscape. The new structures one immediately sees are a handful of houses. A great majority of the population still lives in tents and temporary shelters. Utilities such as water and electricity networks have not been rebuilt. That’s why the recent turnover of classrooms by the Red Cross to elementary and secondary schools in Tacloban and nearby communities is a huge start.

More than 100 days later, people still live in tents in Tacloban. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 by Jude Bautista

This is how most people collect their water, if and when they have access to it. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

Phil Red Cross Sec. Gen. Gwendolyn Pang said, “The turnover of 166 classrooms is very historical in terms of Red Cross cooperation. We finished all 166 classrooms for only 30 days. In January the Red Cross movement was already in early recovery program. Early recovery is very difficult in a disaster as big as this one. But with the efforts, cooperation of the whole Red Cross specifically Phil Red Cross and the Chinese Red Cross, with good leadership very strong chairman of the Phil Red Cross, very strong leadership of the Chinese Red Cross. Both of them are leaders of the Intl Red Cross, they worked so hard on it and finished it in 30 days only.”

Tolosa National High School received 10 classrooms. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

2nd from left: Red Cross (Phil) Sec Gen. Gwendolyn Pang,, Red Cross (China) EVP & Intl Red Cross VP Dr. Baige Zhao, Red Cross (Phil) Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon with teacher and students who received classrooms. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

Hong Kong Red Cross was credited by donating the fixtures. Pang explained, “They’re very happy that school children can go back to school using these buildings and facilities. This morning we’re very happy with the additional support that we’re getting from the Chinese Red Cross. This is a big support from the HK Red Cross as well, which are the school fixtures. They do not want to give an empty classroom. They want to make sure that when we turn over these classrooms they are ready to be used by the students.”

The smiles come from dancers who have been through so many difficulties. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

That morning last February 10, 2014 an agreement was signed of providing 50 armchairs per classroom. It also includes 2 sets of teacher’s table and chair and 2 blackboards for each classroom. The agreement was signed by chairman Richard Gordon and Madame chair Dr. Baige Zhao.

from left: Red Cross (Phil) Sec Gen. Gwendolyn Pang assists Red Cross (Phil) Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon and Red Cross (China) EVP & Intl Red Cross VP Dr. Baige Zhao sign agreement as IFRC Rep Marcel Fortier looks on. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

Red Cross (Phil) Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon and Red Cross (China) EVP & Intl Red Cross VP Dr. Baige Zhao shake hands after the ceremony. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

Gwendolyn Pang also added that the assistance was not only for the Yolanda victims but will also be distributed to a lot of other areas in need, “In total the proposal is to build 400 classrooms. The 166 is only for typhoon Yolanda. Our chairman also directed us in areas that were previously hit by other disasters like the earthquake in Bohol, the Zamboanga siege where 5 barangays were totally devastated or burned down and other areas. We are looking into that. What is very good in this learning is that we have discovered a very important partnership that Phil Red Cross and Chinese Red Cross can work together for the early recovery with classrooms at a very early stage after the disaster.”

Thousands of homes were lost from typhoon Yolanda. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

Tacloban Mayor Alfred Romualdez inspires his constituents. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

In a speech Mayor Alfred Romualdez praised the swift reaction of Red Cross China and Hong Kong who immediately coordinated with the Phil Red Cross, “Although they have not been credited heavily or noticeably in a lot of the media, I’m very much aware and thankful of the impact of the assistance to a lot of my kababayan or countrymen.”

far left Red Cross (China) EVP & Intl Red Cross VP Dr. Baige Zhao and far right Red Cross (HK) Deputy Chair Mdme Ivy Wu Kwok Sau-ping with Red Cross volunteers. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

Dr. Baige Zhao said the project was an opportunity for her to function both as Executive Vice President of international Red Cross and the Chinese Red Cross, “It really is a great honor to see all of you here especially when I see all the Filipinos the students. I really see the value and the meaning of this work. Since 20^th of November Chinese Red Cross joined this important cause.”

Vehicles were tossed by floods during Yolanda, just a few meters away from the airport. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

Red Cross (China) EVP & Intl Red Cross VP Dr. Baige Zhao credits the cooperation with Phil Red Cross as crucial to getting classrooms done quickly. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

According to her the cooperation with the Phil Red Cross and experience of Richard Gordon have helped make things quicker, “We see the result in the people’s faces. We see the result in the people’s happiness especially with the young generation. It is our hope that we can see the results 30 years later on because of the investment in education of the youth. The achievements we’ve had are because of our cooperation with the Phil Red Cross.”

Red Cross (China) EVP & Intl Red Cross VP Dr. Baige Zhao talks to kids. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

Zhao noted the fact that the International Red Cross coordination with local chapters was unprecedented and serves as a model in following the regulations of the federation.

More than 100 days later, people still live in tents in Tacloban. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 by Jude Bautista

Zhao added, “After living in temporary shelters we see the students want to come to school immediately. And Hong Kong Red Cross immediately joined us within 3-4 days, upon hearing of the project. Their assistance made us complete the classrooms so much faster. I want to thank our partner and Richard Gordon my brother. Please send our happiness and willingness to the Filipinos and Tacloban peoples and Leyte. You use the words Tindog, stand up, using this slogan Tindog Tacloban, Tindog!

Red Cross (China) EVP & Intl Red Cross VP Dr. Baige Zhao writes Tindog Tacloban meaning RISE Tacloban. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

During the signing of the agreements and speeches, the Chinese contingent took note of addressing Red Cross (HK) Deputy Chair Ivy Wu Kwok Sau-ping as ‘Madame’. It was lost on the attending press including myself.

from left: Red Cross (China) EVP & Intl Red Cross VP Dr. Baige Zhao and Mdme Ivy Wu are welcomed by Lion Dancers. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

The title of Madame comes from her being the wife of Sir Gordon Wu founder of Hopewell Industries. Gordon Wu is one of the biggest Taipans in Hong Kong who built critical infrastructure such as power plants, dams, roads and bridges in the People’s Republic of China since the 1980s. Queen Elizabeth knighted him for his many contributions to Hong Kong charities including the Red Cross.

Red Cross (HK) Deputy Chair Madame Ivy Wu Kwok Sau-ping spends time with kids from San Jose Central School in Tacloban. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

Madame Ivy Wu conducted herself with such modesty and grace that none of us in the press realized she was one of the wealthiest women in the Special Administrative Region. Madame Ivy Wu said in her short speech, “I’m very grateful to Chinese Red Cross to participate in today’s activities. Since Yolanda typhoon, Hong Kong Red Cross has sent 10 volunteers medical staff joining other medical societies here for service. This time in the school we have participated in purchasing classroom furniture for this temporary school provided by the Chinese Red Cross.”

Red Cross (China) Head of Operations Zhang Ming was welcomed by students from Tolosa National High School. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

Madame Wu gave credit to the benefactors, “Part of the money used to purchase the furniture is supported by the Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank in Hong Kong. We are looking forward to more cooperation with our Chinese Red Cross Society as well as our partners in the Philippine Red Cross Society. Thank you very much.”

from left: Red Cross (China) EVP & Intl Red Cross VP Dr. Baige Zhao, Red Cross (HK) Deputy Chair Mdme Ivy Wu Kwok Sau-ping, Red Cross (Phil) Sec. Asst. /Board of Dir. Atty Inky Reyes, Red Cross (Phil) Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon, Red Cross (China) Head of Gen Administration Yi Song and Red Cross (China) Head of Operations Zhang Ming spends time with kids of San Jose Central School in Tacloban. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 by Jude Bautista.

from left: UNTV camerawoman Archyl Egano and reporter Jenelyn Gaquit. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

Log on to these reputable organizations to donate: PDRF- http://pdrf.org/index.htm ,

Gawad Kalinga- http://gk1world.com/ ,

Habitat for Humanity Phil- http://www.habitat.org.ph/site/index.php

http://help.ph/

from left: Red Cross (Phil) Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon, Tacloban Mayor Alfred Romualdez and Red Cross (China) EVP & Intl Red Cross VP Dr. Baige Zhao. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

Log on to these reputable organizations to donate: PDRF- http://pdrf.org/index.htm ,

Gawad Kalinga- http://gk1world.com/ ,

Habitat for Humanity Phil- http://www.habitat.org.ph/site/index.php

Beneficiaries: Log on to beneficiaries’ websites to donate or for more information: PDRF- http://pdrf.org/index.htm , Gawad Kalinga- http://gk1world.com/ , Habitat for Humanity Phil- http://www.habitat.org.ph/site/index.php

Log on to these reputable organizations to donate: PDRF- http://pdrf.org/index.htm ,

Gawad Kalinga- http://gk1world.com/ ,

Habitat for Humanity Phil- http://www.habitat.org.ph/site/index.php

from left: Red Cross (Phil) Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon, Red Cross (HK) Deputy Chair Mdme Ivy Wu Kwok Sau-ping, Red Cross (China) Head of Operations Zhang Ming and Red Cross (China) Head of Gen Administration Yi Song wave to the children of Tacloban. Photo taken last February 10, 2014 in Tacloban, Leyte by Jude Bautista.

Log on to these reputable organizations to donate: PDRF- http://pdrf.org/index.htm ,

Gawad Kalinga- http://gk1world.com/ ,

Habitat for Humanity Phil- http://www.habitat.org.ph/site/index.php

↧

Pride in Culture

April 18, 2014, 10:45 pm

≫ Next: Reyna Ng Aliwan 2014

≪ Previous: Education Is Key to Recovery

Kids play between ships that ran aground during Yolanda in Tacloban. Photo was taken April 16, 2014 by Jude Bautista.

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

“When we measure strengths its first economic and political then cultural is the recognition of lifestyle based on economic and political factors. Let’s say it’s a mirror of realities in a society. But it’s not only like that it goes two ways. When you discover this then you can use it as a weapon, as a device to change society by changing their point of view. Pag pinalakas mo yung Pinoy through culture mas effective it’s more self-sustaining. Pag sinabi naming LAKAS PINOY Lakas natin kasi Pinoy tayo,” said Joey Tañedo, NCCA Head of the Committee on Visual Arts.

Photographer/ Painter & U.P. Professor Joey Tañedo conducted The LAKAS PILIPINO LAKAS NATIN workshop held April 14-16 at the Tierra De Milagros Resort in Palo, Leyte. Photo by Jude Bautista

Students got to use the SAMSUNG Galaxy 3 Tab for a photography exercise and got to make new friends. The LAKAS PILIPINO LAKAS NATIN workshop was held April 14-16 at the Tierra De Milagros Resort in Palo, Leyte. Photo by Jude Bautista

Tañedo was conducting a workshop called LAKAS PILIPINO LAKAS NATIN last April 14-16, 2014 at Palo Leyte for teachers and students. Pinky San Andres and photographer/ Creative Director Noel San Andres organized the project as a way for students to deal with their traumas brought by Yolanda. PALO Culture and the Arts Organization served as vital volunteers for the activity held at the Tierra De Milagros Resort in Palo, Leyte.

from right: SAMSUNG HR officer Reg Ranada, SAMSUNG Public Affairs Head Arlita Narag, LAKAS PILIPINO Managing Dir. Pinky San Andres, Palo Mayor Remedios ‘Matin’ Petilla, NCCA Committee on Visual Arts Head Jose Alberto Tañedo, Rozel and Kyla Narag, and Palo Municipal Tourism Culture & the Arts Officer Carlos Romano. The LAKAS PILIPINO LAKAS NATIN workshop was held April 14-16 at the Tierra De Milagros Resort in Palo, Leyte. Photo by Jude Bautista

BAYANIHAN PHILIPPINE NATIONAL DANCE COMPANY impressed audiences while the LED screen of NPAT brought them to the countryside. VOICES FOR VISAYAS was held at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last January 15, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista—A lot of our dances come from the ceremonies of thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest like the tinikling.

An appreciation for our own traditions helps the process of healing, “Sa Pilipino when someone dies we have so many rituals. After the burial may 9 days novena ka. Tapos may 40 days na celebration. Tapos meron kang babang luksa. Di ka na magluluksa. Pag na matayan may itim na pin or suot. Eventually darating yung time a year, tatanggalin mo na. Tapos na.”

Photographer/ Painter Joey Tañedo reminded us that The San Juanico Bridge was part of the Maharlika Expressway started during the Marcos era. The LAKAS PILIPINO LAKAS NATIN workshop was held April 14-16 at the Tierra De Milagros Resort in Palo, Leyte. Photo by Jude Bautista

The roots of those traditions are not necessarily Catholic, “That’s almost Christian although not recognized by Catholic Church. That’s cultural because they don’t have that in Western countries. Yung matagal ang closure. Kasi nga iba nga yung relasyon sa pamilya. Asian yan parang Chinese.” He is convinced that it is important to show how and why they should be proud to be Filipino and a member of their community.

Apart from the seminars students were able to use SAMSUNG Galaxy S3 tablets so they can express themselves through a photography exercise. Students also learned the basics in COMPOSITION for photography. Teachers were also made to express their feelings through art by drawing using Cray pass.

Art work by Teacher ALDO B. ROSA of ANAWAHAY National High School Palo Leyte who went through LAKAS PILIPINO LAKAS NATIN workshop. It was held April 14-16 at the Tierra De Milagros Resort in Palo, Leyte. Photo by Jude Bautista

PALO Municipal Cultural Officer Carlo Romano conducted team-building exercises with the students. The LAKAS PILIPINO LAKAS NATIN workshop was held April 14-16 at the Tierra De Milagros Resort in Palo, Leyte. Photo by Jude Bautista

Both groups learned the unique Filipino subcultures as presented by an NCCA produced video: Kultura ng Pagdidiwata (Harmony with the Spirit World), Kultura ng Paguuma at Paguukit (Devotion to the Arabesque Art), Kultura sa Pamamanata sa Poon (Devotion to the Patron Saint), Kultura ng Pananahan (Devotion to the Family), Kultura ng Pangangatwiran (Worship of the Intellect), Kultura ng Pagaaliw (Culture of Entertainment, Kultura ng Pagtutol (Culture of Social Ills) and Kultura ng Pagkakabansa (Culture of Nationhood).

NCCA Committee on Visual Arts Head Jose Alberto Tañedo and SAMSUNG Public Affairs Head Arlita Narag. The LAKAS PILIPINO LAKAS NATIN workshop was held April 14-16 at the Tierra De Milagros Resort in Palo, Leyte. Photo by Jude Bautista

SAMSUNG Phil Public Affairs Head Arlita Narag said, “We in SAMSUNG believe that culture is a very strong resource. The situation calls for its importance. We have to preserve and promote our own culture. Kelangan ibalik natin kung ano tayo talaga.”

She also shared some important data from a workshop on culture she attended in Singapore, “There’s a local consultancy that surveyed 100 countries on national pride. DO you know who topped the list on national pride? The Philippines.”

Writing on the wall of a ship that ran aground during Yolanda in Tacloban. Photo was taken April 16, 2014 by Jude Bautista.

Teacher Joy Balagapo of Sto Niño SPED CENTER, Tacloban City shared that Mdme Imelda Marcos developed Tacloban via culture. The LAKAS PILIPINO LAKAS NATIN workshop was held April 14-16 at the Tierra De Milagros Resort in Palo, Leyte. Photo by Jude Bautista

Teacher Joy Balagapo of Sto Niño SPED CENTER, Tacloban City shared a time when things were better for the community, “How can we enliven cultural awareness here in Leyte? Parang di siya buhay na buhay ngayon. When I was young I studied at Leyte Normal University at that time buhay na buhay ang kultura noon. Madame Imelda Marcos was the first Lady at that time and she was giving special attention to Tacloban most especially at Leyte Normal University.”

At the same time the workshops were conducted SAMSUNG also brought their washing machines to provide free laundry. LAKAS PILIPINO Managing director Pinky San Andres said, “The project has to be welcomed by the community. In this case it was the cultural officer for Palo, Carlo Romano. We arranged it with Mayor Petilla. The fire station was involved because of the water supply. We got volunteers and it was announced in the barangays so that we could let the people know about it. Yesterday there were a lot of people who attended because there was a free live airing of Pacquiao vs Bradley II fight.”

Kids play between ships that ran aground during Yolanda in Tacloban. Photo was taken April 16, 2014 by Jude Bautista.

Participating teachers and students came from: Philippine Science High School, Eastern Visayas Campus, Pawing Elementary School, Palo National High School, Leyte Normal University, St. Paul’s business school and Eastern Visayas State University.

from left: SAMSUNG Public Affairs Head Arlita Narag with SAMSUNG HR officer Reg Ranada. The LAKAS PILIPINO LAKAS NATIN workshop was held April 14-16 at the Tierra De Milagros Resort in Palo, Leyte. Photo by Jude Bautista

PALO Culture and the Arts Organization served as vital volunteers for the activity held at the Tierra De Milagros Resort in Palo, Leyte.

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The LAKAS PILIPINO LAKAS NATIN workshop was held April 14-16 at the Tierra De Milagros Resort in Palo, Leyte. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Reyna Ng Aliwan 2014

April 28, 2014, 2:30 am

≫ Next: Ana Julaton: Pure HEART

≪ Previous: Pride in Culture

Reyna ng Aliwan 2014 winner No.6 Steffi Rose Aberasturi – Sinulog Festival, Cebu City, also garnered Best in Festival Costume, Miss Unique Smile, Best in Swimsuit / Coca Cola Body, Best in Evening Gown / Miss Dazzling Beauty. Reyna Ng Aliwan pageant was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

Photos by

Jude Bautista

Reyna Ng Aliwan Pageant

Reyna Ng Aliwan

P 100,000, FUKUDA LED TV+Tablet, Coca Cola Gift Pack

—No.6 Steffi Rose Aberasturi – Sinulog Festival, Cebu City

Center: Reyna Ng Aliwan 2014 no. 6 Steffi Rose Aberasturi – Sinulog Festival, Cebu City with her court from left 2nd Runner Up no. 16 Michelle Marie Monte –Dinagyang Festival, Iloilo City, 1st R. Up No.13 Shaira Lenn Roberto – Singkaban Festival, No.14 Hazel Mae Trasmonte – Sinulog De Kabankalan, Negros Occidental and Miss Star of the Night / Miss Phil Star No. 8 Maria Gigante – Palawod Festival, Bantayan Island Cebu. Reyna Ng Aliwan pageant was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

1st R. Up No.13 Shaira Lenn Roberto – Singkaban Festival got P 50,000 and a Coca Cola Gift Pack. Reyna Ng Aliwan pageant was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

1^st Runner Up

P 50,000, Coca Cola Gift Pack

—No.13 Shaira Lenn Roberto – Singkaban Festival, Bulacan

Miss Star of the Night / Miss Phil Star No. 8 Maria Gigante – Palawod Festival, Bantayan Island Cebu. Reyna Ng Aliwan pageant was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

2^nd Runner Up (3 winners)

—No. 8 Maria Gigante – Palawod Festival, Bantayan Island Cebu

—No.14 Hazel Mae Trasmonte – Sinulog De Kabankalan, Negros Occidental

—No. 16 Michelle Marie Monte –Dinagyang Festival, Iloilo City

from right: no. 4 Lovely Gemma Abdul – Tuna Festival, General Santos City
, 2nd Runner Up no. 16 Michelle Marie Monte –Dinagyang Festival, Iloilo City & No. 5 Ivy Capili – Boling Boling Festival, Catanauan, Quezon. Reyna Ng Aliwan pageant was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

Best in Festival Costume

—No.6 Steffi Rose Aberasturi – Sinulog Festival, Cebu City

Boling Boling Festival of Catanauan Quezon. Now on its 12th year the Aliwan Festival of Grand Champions is where Street dancers from various fiestas around the country compete. It was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right: Reyna ng Aliwan 2014 winner No.6 Steffi Rose Aberasturi – Sinulog Festival, Cebu City, 1st R. Up No.13 Shaira Lenn Roberto – Singkaban Festival, No. 5 Ivy Capili – Boling Boling Festival, Catanauan, Quezon, 2nd R. Up No.14 Hazel Mae Trasmonte – Sinulog De Kabankalan, Negros Occidental, No. 4 Lovely Gemma Abdul – Tuna Festival, General Santos City and No. 15 Ma. Ahriana Lovely Hubayan – Paraw Regatta, Iloilo City. Reyna Ng Aliwan pageant was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

Special Awards Reyna Ng Aliwan Pageant

Miss Unique Smile

P 5,000

—No.6 Steffi Rose Aberasturi – Sinulog Festival, Cebu City

Miss Star of the Night / Philippine Star

P5,000

—No. 8 Maria Gigante – Palawod Festival, Bantayan Island Cebu

Miss Photogenic No. 10 Lulette Jane Ramilo – Bambanti Festival. Reyna Ng Aliwan pageant was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

Miss Photogenic

Nikon Coolpix camera from Columbia Digital

—No. 10 Lulette Jane Ramilo – Bambanti Festival, Isabela

Best in Swimsuit / Coca Cola Body

P 5,000

—No.6 Steffi Rose Aberasturi – Sinulog Festival, Cebu City

Best in Evening Gown / Miss Dazzling Beauty

P 5,000

—No.6 Steffi Rose Aberasturi – Sinulog Festival, Cebu City

Caragan Festival of Mabalacat, Pampanga. Now on its 12th year the Aliwan Festival of Grand Champions is where Street dancers from various fiestas around the country compete. It was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

2nd Runner Up No.14 Hazel Mae Trasmonte – Sinulog De Kabankalan, Negros Occidental. Reyna Ng Aliwan pageant was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

SPONSORS Include: Cultural Center of the Philippines, The cities of Manila & Pasay, National Parks Development Committee, GLOBE TM, Tanduay Rhum, Coca Cola, Pride, Unique Toothpaste, Shell, Dazz, Alaska Milk, Tiger Biscuits, My Juiz, M Lhuiller, Cherry Mobile, Republic Chemicals, Fukuda, Mr Donut, GES Lights, Bayview Park Hotel, Cacao Talk, V Fresh, Modess, Fisher Mall, Columbia Digital and the Philippine Star.

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The colors of Aliwan attracts the best photographers like Eddie Boy Escudero. Now on its 12th year the Aliwan Festival of Grand Champions is where Street dancers from various fiestas around the country compete. It was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

Inikadatu Float from Cotabato City. Now on its 12th year the Aliwan Festival of Grand Champions also includes a competition for the best float. It was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

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No. 7 Lady Ann Alquizar – Masskara Festival, Bacolod City
Ann is from Bacolod City and represents the Masskara festival held in October and features masked participants amid Latin inspired dance music.

Now on its 12th year the Aliwan Festival of Grand Champions is where Street dancers from various fiestas around the country compete. It was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

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2nd Runner Up no. 16 Michelle Marie Monte –Dinagyang Festival, Iloilo City. Reyna Ng Aliwan pageant was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

Bato Art Festival of Luna, Isabela. Now on its 12th year the Aliwan Festival of Grand Champions is where Street dancers from various fiestas around the country compete. It was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Miss Universe 3rd Runner Up Ariella Arida was a judge for Reyna Ng Aliwan. The pageant was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

Miss Photogenic No. 10 Lulette Jane Ramilo atop the Best Float from the Bambanti Festival, Isabela. Now on its 12th year the Aliwan Festival of Grand Champions also includes a competition for the best float. It was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

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2nd Runner Up no. 16 Michelle Marie Monte –Dinagyang Festival, Iloilo City. Reyna Ng Aliwan pageant was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Best Folkloric Performance awardee Adivay Festival, Benguet. Now on its 12th year the Aliwan Festival of Grand Champions is where Street dancers from various fiestas around the country compete. It was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

No. 5 Ivy Capili – Boling Boling Festival, Catanauan, Quezon
Ivy hails from Catanauan, Quezon and is the muse of the Boling Boling Festival. It is a unique fest which is celebrated during Ash Wednesday with merrymaking.

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Float Competition 2nd Prize Utanon Festival, Dalaguete, Cebu got P 250,000. Now on its 12th year the Aliwan Festival of Grand Champions also includes a competition for the best float. It was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from right: Reyna ng Aliwan 2014 winner No.6 Steffi Rose Aberasturi – Sinulog Festival, Cebu City and 1st R. Up No.13 Shaira Lenn Roberto – Singkaban Festival. Reyna Ng Aliwan pageant was held last April 26, 2014 at the Aliwan Theater grounds, CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Ana Julaton: Pure HEART

May 2, 2014, 10:19 pm

≫ Next: Aussie Will Take RWM Priscilla Abroad

≪ Previous: Reyna Ng Aliwan 2014

Our very own Super Pinay Ana the Hurricane Julaton makes a successful ONE FC debut w TKO victory over Egyptian Aya-Saeid Saber. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

Most Filipinos know Ana ‘The Hurricane’ Julaton as a WBO women’s boxing champ. She’s probably the most heralded Pinay boxer in recent memory. The ONE FC fight against Aya-Sayeid Saber however, was dangerous for a lot of reasons. The transition from boxing to mixed martial arts is not always easy. Saber is a long time kickboxing champion with extensive training from Egyptian Top Team.

Aya-Saeid Saber is and Egyptian Kickboxing Champion with more MMA experience than Ana Julaton. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

Saber has years of MMA experience over Julaton, which proves to be the undoing of most pro boxers who get into the cage. Even heavyweight champ James ‘Lights Out’ Toney was mercifully choked out after being ground and pounded by legend Randy Couture.

Ana Julaton trained in martial arts as a kid, but only fought professionally as a boxer. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

Acquiring the necessary wrestling skills to successfully defend the takedown doesn’t come in months, especially when you go against fighters who’ve been in the cage for years perfecting their ground game. Not a lot of people know that Julaton was trained in Asian martial arts like tae kwon do, kenpo karate, and jiu jitsu even before she got into boxing.

Julaton lands vicious left hook on Saber’s body. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo is from screen grab of ONE FC video.

Early in the first round it was evident that Julaton had the heavier hands with merciless body shots. And she’d push Saber up the cage to get into the clinch. Then came the inevitable trip by Saber taking the fight to the ground. After the ref stands them up, Saber would take advantage of her Muay Thai punishing Julaton with leg kicks. Ana would answer with body shots and a judo sweep. Saber would reverse the position and land elbows from top. Ana suffered swelling on her forehead from the elbows of the deadly Egyptian.

Saber gets takedown in the first and in the second round locks in a deadly guillotine on Ana Julaton. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014.

Aya Saeid Saber goes for a takedown on Ana Julaton. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Aya Saeid Saber lands on top of Julaton on Resort’s World logo and lands ground & pound early in the fight. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo is from screen grab of ONE FC video.

By the second round Saber knew she could not stand up with Julaton so she aggressively went for the takedown. By the 2:40 mark Ana was able to get a reversal, in the process Saber locks in a lethal choke. The thousands of Pinoys at the MOA arena collectively held their breaths thinking this would be the end for our star boxer. Referee Oliver Coste was already crouching down to Ana’s face inches from the ground to see if she was still conscious. Her hands were active, face contorted, teeth gritting down showing she was ok and was trying to get out of it.

Angelo Reyes is the long time trainer of Ana ‘The Hurricane’ Julaton instructing her in the corner. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo is from screen grab of ONE FC video.

Ana the Hurricane Julaton lands left hook on Saber during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Aya-Saeid Saber locks in a lethal guillotine on Ana Julaton right on top of RWM logo. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

It may have been the longest 15 seconds of her life, until her head popped out. The crowd went wild and knew Ana was ok. Saber suddenly grabbed her arm going for an arm bar. Out of nowhere Ana pulls her up, lifts her own legs to stand briefly and slams Saber to the ground. The Egyptian holds on to the arm for dear life so Ana pulls her back up again, stands up and slams Saber down the canvas another 2 times. Just then the ring sounds to end the round. The crowd cheers insanely for the incredible display of heart and physical strength of a Pinay.

Aya-Saeid Saber locks in a lethal guillotine on Ana Julaton right on top of RWM logo. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

Julaton landed vicious ground and pound on Saber during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

The 3rd round the Egyptian immediately went for the takedown. With the wrestling of Julaton, she was again able to get a reversal. But the Egyptian was able to lock in another deadly guillotine. This time when Julaton got out and was on top she landed hammer fists swiftly on the face of Saber. Referee Coste gave Saber every chance to defend herself. He waited for 10 more unanswered punches before he had to pull Julaton off Saber giving the Filipina the TKO win.

Ref Oliver Coste pulls Ana Julaton off Aya Saeid Saber to stop vicious ground and pound earning Julaton the TKO win. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014.

Having won both the WBO and IBA titles, the first Filipina to do so, she now eyes the ONE FC belt. “I’d love to be the first Filipina ONE FC Champion. For me I feel like that will be a dream come true. Just to be the first Filipina World boxing champion and the first Filipina ONE FC Champion will be the ultimate test for me. So I look forward to that.” The ONE FC league has grown with such renown that their contingent was quite large. They were billeted in Maxims Hotel, Marriot Hotel and Remington Hotel all located in the vicinity of Resort’s World Manila.

Left: Ed Folayang lands vicious left hook on the durable Boku. The fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

left: Pinay fighter Jujeath Nagaowa overwhelmed Jeet Toshi of India w a barrage of punches to the body, FPJ style. Referee Oliver Coste had to stop the fight. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Julaton was not the only Filipina who won last May 2, 2014 in ONE FC Rise of Heroes. Jujeath Nagaowa also had a TKO victory over 7x kickboxing champion Jeet Toshi of India. ONE FC Bantamweight Champion Bibiano Fernandes retained his belt against Masakatsu Ueda by decision. Co main event, Eduoard Folayang defeated Kotetsu Boku. Pinoy fighters Rey Docyogen and Eugene Toquero won over Josh Alvarez and Gianni Subba respectively.

left: Pinoy Rey Docyogen and Josh Alvarez of Guam had powerful exchanges during the stand up battle. The fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Ana Julaton trained in martial arts as a kid, but only fought professionally as a boxer. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

The Hurricane was happy to fight in ONE FC, “You just don’t know what to expect with me bringing my game in the ONE FC stage. We have a million people viewership I feel like everything’s at stake whether it’s a title fight or not. This girl was a veteran; she has a lot of confidence. Any fighter who has confidence no matter what their background is a dangerous person. So for me I’m just glad to have this opportunity to come out with the win.”

Aya Saeid Saber was looking better in between rounds. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo is from screen grab of ONE FC video.

Ana Julaton trained in martial arts as a kid, but only fought professionally as a boxer. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

As much as we notice her physical strength and skills, it’s her composure that got her through the lethal guillotine of Saber, “The important thing is that I stay levelheaded, stay focused. In my corner they told me what to do. Despite the ups and downs in the fight, its all about me and know that I’m in control. I’m in control of myself, just believe in yourself you know you worked hard and just continue on.”

right: former Miami HEAT center Ronnie Turiaf in the corner of Ana the Hurricane Julaton. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Aya Saeid Saber was looking better in between rounds. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo is from screen grab of ONE FC video.

There were also a few adjustments from what she was used to in boxing, “She had 5 fights over me. It’s a different pace. I’m used to 2 minutes in the turnaround period for boxing. This is a five-minute pace, with 2 minute breaks in between. So it’s a different game, the set ups are different. It’s a cage rather than a boxing ring. There are a lot of things I need to be versatile on. I just can’t wait to get back into camp.”

Ana Julaton trained in martial arts as a kid, but only fought professionally as a boxer. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

Ana Julaton had the heavier hands prompting Aya-Saeid Saber to shot for the takedowns. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Being a Filipino and a woman has had its own set of challenges in combat sports, “The only reason why I’ve been called the hurricane just so people can get my name right. There’s always been an uphill battle for me being a female in a male dominated sport. From here on out ONE FC gave me a tremendous opportunity. I’m so thankful for it and its not gonna be a walk in the park and I know that. ONE FC is all about true fighters. For me, that’s the ultimate challenge in that.”

They called her ‘The Hurricane’ because they had a hard time pronouncing Julaton—‘J’ is pronounced as ‘H’ –HULATON. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

Ana Julaton trained in martial arts as a kid, but only fought professionally as a boxer. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

Ana Julaton loves fighting in her hometown the Philippines; she’s fought in so many more hostile crowds abroad. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo is from screen grab of ONE FC video.

The chance to fight and win here in the Philippines has been a special blessing, “I feel like in the next bout I’m always going to get an uproar. Everyone’s going to be calling me out and stuff like that. Which is why I’m so happy to have a fight here in the Philippines. Its so nice to have people backing you supporting you. I’m so used to go into different countries and having wana see me get annihilated. It was nice to have that change and pick me up and just help me out. I’m really thankful for the opportunity to fight here.”

top left: Trainer Angelo Reyes carries Julaton in jubilation, Ronnie Turiaf does the same before her hand was raised. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

Julaton gets her hand raised in her MMA debut. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo is from screen grab of ONE FC video.

Early in her boxing career she credits Freddie Roach as a big influence. Long time striking coach and trainer Angelo Reyes was in Ana’s corner. Chris Ben of Xtreme Couture was also in her camp to work on her wrestling. Chris Ben also trains women’s MMA pioneer Gina Carano. It was important for all those knowledgeable people to share their experience with her, “They’ve been so supportive and they kept warning me. This is an open thing for you. This is a battlefield. You gotta be ready for anything. So Monday through Saturday all I do is go sparring 2-3 times a day. You have to be ready for someone who wants to take me to the ground. What’s the position? Someone’s trying to box me. What’s the position? When they cut off the cage I gotta be ready.” Carano is set to fight UFC Women’s Bantamweight champ Ronda Rousey this July.

Julaton bows to the crowd after getting the TKO win against Saber. Behind her is trainer Angelo Reyes and for Miami Heat Ronnie Turiaf. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

former MIAMI HEAT Center Ronnie Turiaf lifts Anna Julaton in victory. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

former MIAMAI HEAT Center Ronnie Turiaf lifts Anna Julaton in victory. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

NBA champ Ronnie Turiaf who played for the HEAT was also in her corner as special friend and supporter. Julaton describes how important he was to her, “It’s amazing. This guy is all heart literally. Don’t get me wrong it was a tough camp, really tough. It’s a new weight division for me. I had to worry bout that. I had to worry about the game plan. I have to worry about new arsenal and being versatile in it. Its very easy to go up and down with your mind. It’s all about being able to stay levelheaded the whole time. One thing that Ronnie was able to bring me was a lot of perspective. I really appreciate that he’s a champion as well. He won the NBA championship with Spoelstra, Miami Heat. So its good to have a champion in your corner.” We beg to disagree Ana. Ronnie isn’t the only one with heart. You’re the one who displayed it in your fight. Ana Julaton is PURE HEART.

Ana Julaton trained in martial arts as a kid, but only fought professionally as a boxer. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

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Julaton pushes Saber against the fence. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Ana Julaton trained in martial arts as a kid, but only fought professionally as a boxer. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014

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former MIAMAI HEAT Center Ronnie Turiaf lifts Anna Julaton in victory. The historic fight was during ONE FC: Rise of Heroes at the Mall of Asia Arena last May 2, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Aussie Will Take RWM Priscilla Abroad

May 10, 2014, 3:25 am

≫ Next: Priscilla Queen of the Party

≪ Previous: Ana Julaton: Pure HEART

The audience went beyond a standing ovation they gave the cast a ‘Dancing Ovation’. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

In Resort’s World Manila’s production of PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL, which opened last May 9, 2014 a lot of the design and production had to be ‘original’. The license from the Australian producers includes only the use of the script and music. So the set design, the costumes, choreography all had to be re-imagined or visualized specifically for the Philippine production.

from left: Red Concepcion (Felicia), Leo Valdez (Mitzi) and Jon Santos (Bernadette) in Charlie’s Angels inspired outfits. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Jon Santos (Bernadette) drives Priscilla the bus that spins on stage while Red Concepcion (Felicia) and Leo Valdez (Mitzi) dance on top deck. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Director Jaime Del Mundo said that the iconic shoe on top of the bus, which was used, on the film and Australian production was not allowed for this production. Instead Del Mundo thought of using 3 thrones with the shape of a tiara at the top deck of the bus. The shape and tiara like formation echoes the queen theme. The result was both functional and alluring.

Director Jaime Del Mundo & NEWS Café host Mitzi Borromeo of Solar News. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Stars on top from left: Jon Santos (Bernadette), Leo Valdez (Mitzi) and Red Concepcion (Felicia) DIVAS In bus from left: Timmy Canlas, Bituin Escalante and Lani Ligot. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Del Mundo also decided to create a top deck for Priscilla (name of the bus) and use it as a focal point for the more important scenes. So many of the design solutions by set designer Jo Tecson and director Jaime Del Mundo worked so well that they impressed Australian producer Gary McQuinn. His company Nullabor Productions holds the rights to PRISCILLA the Musical. He has seen more than 17 versions of the show and believes that the version here in Resort’s World Manila is “one of the best if not the best”.

from left: RWM Dir. for Sponsorship Anna Chua, Lisa Macuja, Nullabor Productions Managing Dir Garry McQuinn and RWM VP for Ent Sviatlana Burkun. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Thou Reyes (Ensemble), OJ Mariano (Ensemble), Jill Peña (Ensemble), Henry Strzalkowski (Bob), Menchu Lauchengco Yulo (Marion), Warren Saga (Benjamin), Cara Barredo (Ensemble) and Pinky Parquez (Shirley). PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

The inventive design along with the incredible performance was what impressed McQuinn. In an interview with SOLAR NEWS’ Mitzi Borromeo he said, “I thought the cast was wonderful. Actors are the same around the world, they need to find a good story. These guys found their way. There’s a whole bunch of new stuff. There are a number of huge production problems that you have to solve in Priscilla. And they were solved with wonderful, wonderful creativity and invention. To the point where I enjoyed this version more than any other recent version I can remember. It was surprising usually I know what to expect.”

Priscilla the Bus changes colors foreground: Red Concepcion (Felicia), Jon Santos (Bernadette) and Leo Valdez (Mitzi). PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Seated from right: Pinky Marquez (Shirley) and Jill Peña (Ensemble). PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

He spoke glowingly of the cast-drag queens: Leo Valdez, Jon Santos, Red Concepcion, three Divas: Bituin Escalante, Timmy Canlas and Lani Ligot. Major roles include stars like Michael Stewart Williams, Menchu Lauchengco Yulo, Pinky Marquez, Henry Strzalkowski, with Warren Saga and Guido Gatmaitan alternating as Benjamin. Including a talented ensemble with the likes of OJ Mariano, Red Nuestro, Jasmine Fitzgerald and Raymond Concepcion II.

from left: Jon Santos (Bernadette) and Henry Strzalkowski (Bob). PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Talented cast from left: Timmy Canlas (Diva), Jasmine Fitzgerald, Jill Peña, Reg Claravall and Raymond Concepcion II. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

McQuinn also revealed his plans to take the RWM production abroad, “Today I was like any other audience. I sat there and was surprised and moved and thrilled by the invention. All the way through with the revolver to the bus it was unique and theirs. Along with that, a wonderful wonderful heartfelt performance from ALL of them. You can take this from me we are taking this production of Priscilla somewhere else.”

Red Concepcion plays Felicia in PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL. It will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: News Café Host Mitzi Borromeo, Nullabor Productions Managing Dir Garry McQuinn, RWM CEO and VP for Entertainment Colin Kerr. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

RWM CEO & VP for Entertainment Colin Kerr was able to explain that highlighting Filipino talent was always one of the intentions from the beginning, “Something that we do here in Resort’s World Manila is support Filipino talent. That’s one of our strong advocacies. We make sure that we show the best of the best in every production we do. We want to show the diversity of Filipino talent as well. Tonight we showed more diversity than we’ve ever shown.”

from left: RWM Artistic Dir. Menchu Lauchengco Yulo, Michael Stewart Williams (Miss Understanding), RWM CEO & VP for Ent Collin Kerr & Leo Valdez (Mitzi). PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

DIVAS on top deck from left: Timmy Canlas, Lani Ligot and Bituin Escalante. Foreground left: Jon Santos (Bernadette). PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

One of the unique features of the New Port Performing Arts Theater (or NPAT) in Resort’s World Manila is the giant LED screen. In this production it was even more of a factor. McQuinn added, “We’ve never used anything like this before. I think it’s a revelatory solution to the design problems of the show. Essentially you have to show the great Australian Outback on stage. And we’ve always in the past used more traditional scenery methods of doing that. It’s a huge video wall. I have to say the imagery that was put on it. I think is quite outstandingly successful and solves a lot of production problems.”

right (on table) Jon Santos (Bernadette) and Red Concepcion (Felicia). PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right: Megaworld First VP and Commercial Div. Head Kevin Tan, Michelle Tan, Eventologist Tim Yap and Sea Princess Tessa Prieto Valdes. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Del Mundo credits the resident video producers/ animators Ivan Sakantsau and Carlo Manere. He said, “I knew exactly what I wanted to happen. I just didn’t know they could do it in a way that was so technically polished. To be honest I didn’t think the road would change perspective at the same time as the bus. So they pulled that off, which made me happy.”

from left: Leo Valdez (Mitzi), Red Concepcion (Felicia) and Jon Santos (Bernadette) drives Priscilla the bus. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Pinky Amador and OJ Mariano shoot selfies of cast and friends. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

Resort’s World Manila, VISA, MGM ON STAGE, MAC Cosmetics

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SAM Y.G. of Boys Night Out was at the opening of PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL. It will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Walang Tulugan’s John Nite & host Kuya German Moreno, Tessa Prieto Valdes and Ken Chan. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

RWM Menchu Lauchengco Yulo also plays the role of Marion with her is Leo Valdez (Mitzi). PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

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Suzi Entrata-Abrera of MARS / Unang Hirit at the opening of PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL. It will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right: RWM Pres. Kingson Sian, RWM Dir. for Sponsorship Anna Chua and RWM CEO & VP for Ent Colin Kerr. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Pinky Marquez (Shirley) is in PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL. It will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

Resort’s World Manila, VISA, MGM ON STAGE, MAC Cosmetics

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from left: RWM Creative Technical Dir Sviatlana Burkun, RWM CEO and VP for Entertainment Colin Kerr, Nicole Yulo and Director Jaime Del Mundo. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Divas from left: Timmy Canlas, Bituin Escalante and Lani Ligot. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: RWM Pres. Kingson Sian and Broadway Asia Mgr Intl Licensing & Touring Damon G. Brooks. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

Resort’s World Manila, VISA, MGM ON STAGE, MAC Cosmetics

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foreground from left: Jon Santos as Bernadette (on coffin) and Leo Valdez (Mitzi). PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Phil Star Columnist Bibsy Carballo and GMA News/ Entertainment reporter Nelson Canlas. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Red Concepcion (Felicia) on sofa with Divas from left: Timmy Canlas, Bituin Escalante and Lani Ligot. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Fans in 70s attire shoots a cool group selfie. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

Resort’s World Manila, VISA, MGM ON STAGE, MAC Cosmetics

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from left: Jon Santos (Bernadette), Leo Valdez (Mitzi), RW Sentosa VP for Ent Andrea Teo Yun Ai and Red Concepcion (Felicia). PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Pinky Marquez (Shirley) thanks crowd, behind her from left Nullabor Productions Managing Dir Garry McQuinn and Nullabor Productions Exec. Producer Bradley Stauffer-Kruse. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Jon Santos plays Bernadette in PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL. It will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Giselle Toenggi was at the opening of PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL. It will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

Resort’s World Manila, VISA, MGM ON STAGE, MAC Cosmetics

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from left: Jon Santos (Bernadette), Leo Valdez (Mitzi) and Red Concepcion (Felicia) in Charlie’s Angels inspired outfits. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

↧

Priscilla Queen of the Party

May 12, 2014, 8:58 am

≫ Next: Silence, on tourne ! And…Action! POCKEMON CREW

≪ Previous: Aussie Will Take RWM Priscilla Abroad

Leo Valdez is Mitzi. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

Unlike other musicals or theatrical performances, PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL did not have a standing ovation on opening night. Instead what they had was even better, a dancing ovation where audience members were boogying in the aisles to Tina Turner’s “What’s Love Got To Do With It?”, the Village People’s “Go West”, Alicia Bridges’s “I Love The Nightlife”, Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive”, Dionne Warwick’s “I Say A Little Prayer”.

Cast and friends had a ball at the post party. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Sel Yulo, RWM Pres. Kingson Sian, Walang Tulugan’s German Moreno and John Nite. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

The disco beat is irresistible in any generation; the flamboyant and colorful clothes all make it easy to party. The ecstatic mood spilled over to the atrium of Resort’s World Manila where the post party was held. People dining in Mr. Kurosawa, Johnny Chow, Crisostomo, Tao Yuan Restaurant, Murray’s New Orleans Fine Steaks And Ribs and Beurre Blanc were craning their necks trying to see what the fuss was about.

foreground: Jon Santos (Bernadette) and her entourage. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

The FLINSTONES is a rocking retro band. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Retro band The FLINTSTONES played the same party hits from 70s and 80s. The long lines going in REPUBLIQ and OPUS were treated to a dance floor right in the middle of the atrium. For once the action was outside these hot nightspots. The people inside Ginzadon Japanese & Korean Restaurant, Parmigiana Italian Kitchen, Krazy Garlik, Passion, Cafe Republiq, Passion Chinese Restaurant, Red Crab Alimango House and Starbucks Coffee couldn’t resist joining in.

The Party was not just inside REPUBLIQ and OPUS but also at the Atrium. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Sea Princess Tessa Prieto Valdes was mistook for a cast member because of her afro and 70’s look. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Sea Princess Tessa Prieto Valdes was one of many celebrity faces that attended opening night. She was also in 70’s fashion and could have been part of the cast. In an interview with NEWS CAFÉ host Mitzi Borromeo she said, “I look like I’m part of the production! I came in late they thought I would walk to my seat and go straight to the stage! I could have I loved it. Wonderful it was such an entertaining production.”

from right: News Café Host Mitzi of SOLAR News and PDI Columnist Tessa Prieto Valdes. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

In front of Café REPUBLIQ A fan takes Android pic w Jeff Flores. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Tessa noticed the shift in themes from previous RWM shows, “It’s so edgy and different from all the other fairy tales, musical. Its wonderful they’ve gone to this edgy side of entertainment. It was so warmly received. The audience was so involved, engaging and game. In the end people were just dancing. It’s such a feel good production”

from left: Pinky Marquez, Micah Muñoz and Cara Barredo. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Priscilla the Bus changes colors foreground: Lani Ligot (Diva)Red Concepcion (Felicia), Jon Santos (Bernadette) and Leo Valdez (Mitzi). PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Center: RWM Dir. for Sponsorship Anna Chua shoots selfie with Pinky Amador and Red Concepcion (Felicia) THEN parties! PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

When asked if the local market was ready for Priscilla, Tessa said, “I think it’s the right time. The gay world is welcome in the Philippines. It has nothing to do with a gender thing. It’s about family and engaging people in different lifestyles. I just love that people are expressing themselves in costumes. I was asking myself before I got here, what afro color should I wear? All of them they just jumped out of my closet! I have that color and that wig too!”

foreground from left: Red Concepcion (Felicia), Leo Valdez (Mitzi), Jon Santos (Bernadette) and Noel Rayos (fake Aborigines) dance to entertain tourists in the Outback. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Red Concepcion (Felicia) and Tessa Prieto Valdes. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right RWM CEO & VP for Entertainment Colin Kerr, RWM Pres. Kingson Sian, Jon Santos (Bernadette), RWM Creative Technical Dir Sviatlana Burkun and Phil BIO Founder Samuel West Stewart. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

RWM CEO & VP for Entertainment Colin Kerr was also able to share why they chose Priscilla, “We wanted to make a change. We’ve done all the Roger’s and Hammerstein. We didn’t want to be identified with just one theme, Sound of Music, Cinderella. We wanted something radically different, modern, catchy songs but still everyone knew. There’s tangibility. There’s still that connectivity with people. Of course I’m a Priscilla fan. Our artistic director Menchu Lauchengco Yulo talked about it and it just grew. Everyone came on board.”

Cast seated from left: Jeffrey Flores, Warren David Saga, OJ Mariano, Victor Bernardino Sy, Reg Claravall, Thou Reyes, Red Concepcion, Dindo Divinagracia, Jonathan Santos
Cast standing from left: Noel Rayos, Henry Strzalkowski, Raymund Concepcion II, Red Nuestro, Jill Peña, Mako Alonso, Jasmine Fitzgerald, Timmy Canlas, Menchu Lauchengco Yulo, Michael Stuart Williams, RWM CEO & VP for Entertainment Colin Kerr, Nullabor Productions Managing Dir Garry McQuinn. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

right pic: Cara Barredo and Red Nuestro. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Cast members had impromptu performances with the FLINTSTONES. Red Nuestro had a powerful rendition of September by Earth Wind and Fire. The whole cast was such natural singers that most of them have their own groups and individual gigs. Timmy Canlas and Jasmine Fitzgerald for example have a new duo SINGING SENSATIONS. Their former group TRIA performed regularly at Bar 360 also in Resort’s World Manila. Bituin Escalante, Jon Santos, Leo Valdez and many more in the cast are powerful solo musicians with countless concerts and shows to their credit.

Cast members from left: Timmy Canlas and Jasmine Gitzgerald are also the duo SINGING SENSATIONS that perform in BAR 360 at Resort’s World Manila. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

The list of cast members include: Bituin Escalante , Japs Camantigue Treopaldo, Noel Rayos, Inday Echevarria, OJ Mariano, Henry Strzalkowski, Raymund Concepcion II, Red Concepcion, Jeffrey Flores, Warren David Saga, Wendell John Frando, Jonathan Santos, Mako Alonso, Jill Peña, Guido P. Gatmaytan, Menchu Lauchengco Yulo, Jasmine Fitzgerald, Reg Claravall, Thou Reyes, Michael Stuart Williams, Cara Barredo, Ring Antonio, Timmy Canlas, Red Nuestro, Chesko Rodriguez, Lani Mabilangan Ligot, Victor Bernardino Sy, Pinky Marquez Cancio, Jeri David, Dindo Divinagracia, Niel Murat and Leo Tavarro Valdez.

Cast seated from left: Jeffrey Flores, Warren David Saga, OJ Mariano, Victor Bernardino Sy, Reg Claravall, Thou Reyes, Red Concepcion, Dindo Divinagracia, Jonathan Santos, Nullabor Productions Exec. Producer Bradley Stauffer-Kruse, RWM Creative Technical Dir Sviatlana Burkun, Japs Camantigue Treopaldo, Broadway Asia Mgr Intl Licensing & Touring Damon G. Brooks and RWM President Kingson Sian.
Cast standing from left: Henry Strzalkowski, Noel Rayos, Raymund Concepcion II, Red Nuestro, Jill Peña, Mako Alonso, Jasmine Fitzgerald, Timmy Canlas, Menchu Lauchengco Yulo, Michael Stuart Williams, RWM CEO & VP for Entertainment Colin Kerr, Nullabor Productions Managing Dir Garry McQuinn, Leo Tavarro Valdez, Jaime Del Mundo, Pinky Marquez Cancio, Inday Echevarria, Wendell John Frando, Bituin Escalante and Nancy Crowe. [NOT in photo: Guido P. Gatmaytan, Cara Barredo, Ring Antonio, Chesko Rodriguez, Lani Mabilangan Ligot, Jeri David and Niel Murat.] PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

RWM Exec sings impromptu I WILL SURVIVE as Red Concepcion does a lip synch. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Impromptu performance by RWM Exec who sang I WILL SURVIVE with Red Concepcion’s lip synch. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Just when things were winding down a talented singer grabbed the mic but not from the ranks of the cast but RWM execs. When she sang an emotional I WILL SURVIVE by Glroia Gaynor it prompted Red Concepcion to join her on stage to shake it. NOT to be out done Jon Santos went into a very special swing dance sequence with cast member Dindo Divinagracia. The complex yet impromptu choreography included Jon rolling on the floor seemingly remote controlled by Dindo’s gestures.

from left: Dindo Divinagracia and Jon Santos had a unique and impromptu swing sequence. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right: Dindo Divinagracia and Jon Santos had a unique and impromptu swing sequence. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Dindo gestures towards and away as Jon rolls on the ground… then a dip. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Dindo Divinagracia and Jon Santos receive much-deserved applause. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

When Mitzi Borromeo asked Tessa which part of Priscilla was her favorite she replied, “I love everything. But I loved that scene where they had those gigantic afros and neon colors. Each of them had their own entourage. I’m gonna have myself and my entourage and come in party and show them how to rock Priscilla style!”

Red Concepcion (Felicia) and her entourage. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Sea Princess Tessa Prieto Valdes and RWM Pres. Kingson Sian. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

foreground from right: Red Concepcion (Felicia), Jon Santos (Bernadette), Leo Valdez (Mitzi) and Noel Rayos (fake Aborigines) dance to entertain tourists in the Outback. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

Resort’s World Manila, VISA, MGM ON STAGE, MAC Cosmetics

http://www.flickr.com/photos/14686025@N00/

http://judebautista.tumblr.com/

from left: Dr. Vivian Sarabia, Alissa Martinez and Liezl Martinez. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Reg Claravall hugs Leo Valdez. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Mako Alonso & Jill Peña. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

Resort’s World Manila, VISA, MGM ON STAGE, MAC Cosmetics

http://judebfood.wordpress.com/ , http://judebphoto.wordpress.com/ ,

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OJ Mariano shoots selfie with cast and friends. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Neil Murat lifts Japs Camantigue Treopaldo in the air and shocks cast mates—like a HANGOVER moment. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Japs didn’t realize she could extend her foot that high. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

Resort’s World Manila, VISA, MGM ON STAGE, MAC Cosmetics

http://www.flickr.com/photos/14686025@N00/

http://judebautista.tumblr.com/

From left: Ballet Manila founder Lisa Macuja with Elizabeth Rae an esteemed guest instructor from the UK. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

lovely faces from left: Timmy Canlas, Choreographer Nancy Crowe and Jasmine Fitzgerald. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

In front of REPUBLIQ Café from left: Leo Valdez (Mitzi), PDI Columnist Dolly Ann Carvajal and Jeff Flores (ensemble). PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

Resort’s World Manila, VISA, MGM ON STAGE, MAC Cosmetics

http://judebfood.wordpress.com/ , http://judebphoto.wordpress.com/ ,

http://judebgallery.wordpress.com/ ,http://judebautista.wordpress.com/

from right: MB Entertainment Columnist Crispina Belen with grand daughters Mariella, Agatha and filmmaker Nardz Belen. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

The atrium was in full Priscilla. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

Resort’s World Manila, VISA, MGM ON STAGE, MAC Cosmetics

http://www.flickr.com/photos/14686025@N00/

http://judebautista.tumblr.com/

from left: Jeff Flores, Micah Muñoz and Fanny Serrano. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

2nd from right: Mitzi Borromeo and the SOLAR NEWS Team. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

foreground: Leo Valdez (Mitzi) and her entourage. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

Resort’s World Manila, VISA, MGM ON STAGE, MAC Cosmetics

http://judebfood.wordpress.com/ , http://judebphoto.wordpress.com/ ,

http://judebgallery.wordpress.com/ ,http://judebautista.wordpress.com/

In front of Café REPUBLIQ from left: Leo Valdez, PDI Entertainment Columnist Dolly Ann Carvajal and Thou Reyes. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

Resort’s World Manila, VISA, MGM ON STAGE, MAC Cosmetics

http://www.flickr.com/photos/14686025@N00/

http://judebautista.tumblr.com/

from left: RWM Creative Technical Dir Sviatlana Burkun, Japs Camantigue Treopaldo, Broadway Asia Mgr Intl Licensing & Touring Damon G. Brooks and Nullabor Productions Exec. Producer Bradley Stauffer-Kruse. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Cast from left: Raymond Concepcion II, Mako Alonso, Chesko Rodriguez & Jill Peña. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

Resort’s World Manila, VISA, MGM ON STAGE, MAC Cosmetics

http://judebfood.wordpress.com/ , http://judebphoto.wordpress.com/ ,

http://judebgallery.wordpress.com/ ,http://judebautista.wordpress.com/

bottom left pic: Leo Valdez is hugged by Henry Strzalkowski. Bottom right pic from left: Red Nuestro, Ring Antonio, Nancy Crowe, Neil Murat and Japs Camantigue Treopaldo. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: RW Sentosa Asst Dir. Ent Technical Andrew Davies, Jon Santos (Bernadette) and RW Sentosa Sr Costume Mgr Sara Munday, Red Concepcion (Felicia). PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Left pic : Jill Peña / right pic : from left: Pinky Amador, Nullabor Productions Exec. Producer Bradley Stauffer-Kruse and Noel Rayos. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

Resort’s World Manila, VISA, MGM ON STAGE, MAC Cosmetics

http://www.flickr.com/photos/14686025@N00/

http://judebautista.tumblr.com/

Cast from left: Red Nuestro, Reg Claravall, Thou Reyes, Ring Antonio, Mako Alonso, Chesko Rodriguez, Cara Barredo and Raymond Concepcion II. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

left pic: Janeena and Jessika Chan, / right pic: from left: PDI Columnist Dolly Ann Carvajal, Leo Valdez (Mitzi), and Ultimate Productions Managing Dir. Mark Manalang. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

Resort’s World Manila, VISA, MGM ON STAGE, MAC Cosmetics

http://judebfood.wordpress.com/ , http://judebphoto.wordpress.com/ ,

http://judebgallery.wordpress.com/ ,http://judebautista.wordpress.com/

Mako Alonso and Jill Peña. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

left: Jeff Flores and Micah Muñoz. / right pic from right RWM CEO & VP for Entertainment Colin Kerr, RWM Pres. Kingson Sian, Jon Santos (Bernadette), RWM Creative Technical Dir Sviatlana Burkun and Phil BIO Founder Samuel West Stewart. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

A fan takes a selfie with Leo Valdez (Mitzi) and Pinky Amador. PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

Resort’s World Manila, VISA, MGM ON STAGE, MAC Cosmetics

http://www.flickr.com/photos/14686025@N00/

http://judebautista.tumblr.com/

from left: Red Nuestro, Ring Antonio, Nancy Crowe, Neil Murat and Japs Camantigue Treopaldo . PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Priscilla Queen of the Desert Stars from left: Jon Santos (Bernadette), Leo Valdez (Mitzi) and Red Concepcion (Felicia). PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL will run from May to July 2014 at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL

is presented by

Resort’s World Manila, VISA, MGM ON STAGE, MAC Cosmetics

http://judebfood.wordpress.com/ , http://judebphoto.wordpress.com/ ,

http://judebgallery.wordpress.com/ ,http://judebautista.wordpress.com/

↧

Silence, on tourne ! And…Action! POCKEMON CREW

May 26, 2014, 12:44 am

≫ Next: CLEAR Helps Pinoy Football

≪ Previous: Priscilla Queen of the Party

Wednesday, May 28, 2014– 8pm

SM AURA Premier – Samsung Hall

The Alliance française de Manille and SM Aura Premier, with the support of the Embassy of France, present Silence, on tourne ! And… Action!, the new performance of Hip Hop Dance World Champion POCKEMON CREW on May 28, 8:00 pm at the Samsung Hall of the SM Aura Premier.

The Pockemon Crew returns to the Philippines with their newest creation with 9 dancers, exploring two worlds they love: Cinema and the origins of hip-hop movements. Silence on tourne ! is also a glimpse of their home city, Lyon, where cinema was invented by the Lumière Brothers at the end of 19th century. The black and white cinema embellished by this colorful dance inspires this performance.

Through sets and costumes inspired by classical film studios, the dancers bring the audience in a dance and musical journey with impressive physical prowess. The show manages to convey the unifying power that made the success of American musical choreography during the time of Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, Vincente Minnelli or Stanley Donen. It features a series of acts accompanied by a soundtrack and a lighting stage design reminiscent of Broadway and the golden age of Hollywood musical films.

As a tribute to cinema and the journey towards modern times, this new creation looks back to the origins of Hip Hop in New York in the 40’s. Silence, on tourne ! is a performance that lives up to the reputation of the Pockemon Crew, a company in the constant quest for exploration and the discovery of new dimensions.

The Pockemon Crew began in 1996-1997, when the dancers were training at the plaza of the Lyon Opera. They performed as a professional group of break dancers for 15 years. Since then, they have won several Hip Hop Competitions at national and international levels: the French Champion in Hip Hop dance in 2003 and 2008, the European Champion in 2004 and 2012 and the World Champion in 2003 and 2006. Today, the Pockemon Crew is a resident dance company at the Opera of Lyon.

Ticket Prices: PHP 500 (orchestra seats) and PHP400 (balcony seats) – 20% for the AFM students and AFM members and groups of at least 20 persons.

Contact SM Tickets for ticket sales and info at 470-22-22 or visit www.smtickets.com

Silence, on tourne ! And… Action! is organized by the Alliance française de Manille and SM Aura Premier, with the support of the Embassy of France to the Philippines and our official media partner, Solar News Channel. This event is part of the yearly French cultural program, FrancoPhil, with events that include the 19^th French Film Festival, the Quatuor Parisii String Quartet concert, and the Fête de la Musique in June and the Tête d’enfant Modern Circus performance in October.

For more information, log on to: www.alliance.ph, www.ambafrance-ph.org, pockemon-crew.net or contact Sabrina Durand, AFM Cultural Coordinator, at 895-7585, 895-7441 or email: sabrina@alliance.ph.

↧

CLEAR Helps Pinoy Football

June 4, 2014, 7:53 am

≫ Next: French Phil Cinema Flourishes

≪ Previous: Silence, on tourne ! And…Action! POCKEMON CREW

CLEAR endorsers from left: James and Phil Younghusband at OUTBACK Steakhouse last June 4, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and Photographed

By Jude Bautista

Immediately after coming from their 2^nd place finish in the recently concluded Asian Football Confederation Cup, the AZKALS are already looking forward to the future. AZKALS team leaders Phil Younghusband together with brother James are the two official endorsers of the brand CLEAR from Unilever.

Photo from official CLEAR facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/ClearPH?fref=photo

Young amateur footballers from around the country were selected to play with Manchester United legends. Photo from official CLEAR facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/ClearPH?fref=photo

Phil explained how the company is able to help sports in general, “Unilever, CLEAR they’ve been so supportive of sports, of football. They have programs in basketball in running, in triathlon. In football, they’ve just been so supportive of the sport. Promoting the sport helps promote the people in that sport, helps me James and all of the players. I’m obviously very grateful and I feel very blessed to have the opportunity to just be the face of the products (CLEAR & REXONA). So it’s helped me on a personal level and its helped Philippine Football. They’ve helped Philippine football grow and make me happier than anything.”

Photo from official CLEAR facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/ClearPH?fref=photo

Jeman Villanueva shoots Phil Younghusband and Daisuke Sato at OUTBACK Steakhouse last June 4, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

The upcoming CLEAR DREAM Match this Saturday June 7, 2014 at the University of Makati Stadium features two former Manchester United players in Paul Scholes and Andy Cole. Scholes has been part of several Manchester United Championship squads and will play for TEAM PHIL. Cole has scoring titles in nearly every year will be in TEAM JAMES.

Pinoy fans were behind their AZKALS through out the AFC Challenge Cup.

Photo from official CLEAR facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/ClearPH?fref=photo

Paul Scholes is the quintessential Manchester United player having played his entire career from 1993 to 2013. He is considered as one of the best midfielders of his generation and is also one of the most colorful personalities as well.

Photo from official CLEAR facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/ClearPH?fref=photo

Andy Cole is the second highest goal scorer in Premiere League history with 187. Apart from Manchester United he has also played for Arsenal, Newcastle United, Blackburn Rovers, Fulham, Manchester City. He was also considered as one of the highest paid players in the early 90s.

CLEAR endorsers from left: James and Phil Younghusband BOND at OUTBACK Steakhouse last June 4, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Young amateur footballers from around the country were selected to play with Manchester United legends. Photo from official CLEAR facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/ClearPH?fref=photo

News website INTERAKSYON reported the competing teams for the CLEAR DREAM MATCH will also be composed of amateur players specifically chosen and trained by Manchester United Soccer Schools coaches Kevin O’Connel and Jamie Fitzpatrick. The 6 were chosen from 32.

from right: Diane Castillejo chats with Simon Greatwich and James Younghusband at OUTBACK Steakhouse last June 4, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Photo from official CLEAR facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/ClearPH?fref=photo

The teams are a mix of national team players and the 6 from the development program sponsored by CLEAR last April. These are the kinds of development programs that search for future National team players for the AZKALS. The CLEAR DREAM MATCH ticket sales will also benefit the Tuloy Foundation, which aims to help street kids be integrated to mainstream society.

AZKALS from left: Phil Younghusband with Daisuke Sato at OUTBACK Steakhouse last June 4, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

A super save by AZKALS goalie Neil Etheridge during the AFC Challenge Cup.

AZKALS recent spate of wins was aired in ABS CBN Sports namely the AFC Challenge Cup, FIFA World Cup Qualifiers and Long Teng Cup in Taiwan. Fans should watch out for the Peace Cup to be aired later this year where the hold the title of defending champions.

Pinoy Fitness Writer Mars Callo shoots Phil Younghusband at OUTBACK Steakhouse last June 4, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Map of University of Makati Stadium seat sections for CLEAR DREAM match. Photo from official CLEAR facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/ClearPH?fref=photo

ABS CBN Sports has telecast the team’s rise to fame and success. This has been made evident with the Philippines having risen in the FIFA Rankings from a low of 216 in 2004 all the way to its current ranking of 127, which was achieved in February of this year.

AZKALS from left: Physio Therapist Wally Javier, Anton Del Rosario, PFF Sec Gen Atty Ed Gastanes, Team Mgr Dan Palami, ABS CBN Integrated Sports Dino Laurena and Kenshiro Daniels at OUTBACK Steakhouse last June 4, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Pinoy fans were behind their AZKALS through out the AFC Challenge Cup.

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CLEAR endorsers from left: James and Phil Younghusband behind them are from left Goalie Coach Jorge Kuriyama and Asst. Coach Bruno Baltazar. Photo taken at OUTBACK Steakhouse last June 4, 2014 by Jude Bautista

Pinoy fans were behind their AZKALS through out the AFC Challenge Cup.

fb fan page:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Text-and-Photos-by-Jude-Bautista/146371575384135

CLEAR endorser James Younghusband at OUTBACK Steakhouse last June 4, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Pinoy fans were behind their AZKALS through out the AFC Challenge Cup.

tumblr:

http://judebautista.tumblr.com/

from left: ABS CBN Integrated Sports Dino Laurena, ABS CBN Public Affairs Kathy Solis, Pinoy Fitness Writer Mars Callo, Writer Ibarra Mateo and Photojournalist Jude Bautista at OUTBACK Steakhouse last June 4, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Pinoy fans were behind their AZKALS through out the AFC Challenge Cup.

flickr:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/14686025@N00/

from left: Coach Tom Dooley and Anton Del Rosario at OUTBACK Steakhouse last June 4, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Pinoy fans were behind their AZKALS through out the AFC Challenge Cup.

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↧

French Phil Cinema Flourishes

June 11, 2014, 3:07 am

≫ Next: Hard Fought CLEAR Dream Match Victory for TEAM James

≪ Previous: CLEAR Helps Pinoy Football

2nd from left H.E. French Amb. Gilles Garachon, from right: TV5 Pres. Noel Lorenzana, French Audio Visual Attaché Martin Macalintal, FDCP Chairman Briccio Santos and Ayala Malls Marketing Head Maricris Bernardino. The 19th French Film Fest will run from June 10-15, 2014 at Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1, tickets are at 100 pesos. Photo by Jude Bautista

Photos by

Jude Bautista

Cinema continues to be a significant field of cooperation in between France and the Philippines following the conclusion of a landmark agreement between the two countries. This comes as France nears two decades of bringing the best in French cinema to the Filipino public through the annual French Film Festival.

Last May 19, 2014 at the Cannes Film Festival, Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) Chairman Briccio Santos and Centre National du cinema et l’image animee (CNC) Deputy Director Michel Plazanet signed a film cooperation agreement outlining specific areas of collaboration between the agencies.

Stars from left: Mercedes Cabral, Maria Isabel Loopez, Althea Vega, Lance Raymundo and Alma Concepcion. The 19th French Film Fest will run from June 10-15, 2014 at Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1, tickets are at 100 pesos. Photo by Jude Bautista

According to the agreement, France and the Philippines will engage in efforts such as information sharing, reciprocal participation of national cinematographic works in film festivals, capacity building, archiving and anti piracy.

The facilitation of production and co production projects is also a highlight of the agreement. Director Pepe Diokno is currently in the post production phase of his film ABOVE THE CLOUDS which is co produced by the French media outfit UNLIMITED. It was made possible through the World Cinema Support fund managed by the CNC and Institut Francais under the French Ministry of Culture and Communication and the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and international Development.

The agreement will be effective for duration of two years and is renewable.

TV5 Artista Academy alums from left: Akihiro Blanco, Malak So Shdifat, director Brillante Mendoza, Chanel Morales and Mark Neumann. The 19th French Film Fest will run from June 10-15, 2014 at Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1, tickets are at 100 pesos. Photo by Jude Bautista

The signing of this accord comes shortly before the 19^th French Film Festival, which has consistently gathered thousands of viewers yearly to experience a certain French touch in filmmaking that is not easily accessible to the Filipino public.

The 19^th French Film Festival opens on June 9 with the romantic comedy 20 ANS D’ECART (IT BOY). Alice Lantin’s uptight attitude is the only thing preventing her from becoming the next editor in chief of a French fashion magazine. Everything changes when she meets 20-year-old Balthazar who may be the key to her promotion.

Center H.E. French Amb. Gilles Garachon, from left: Kickers Brand Mgr Kristine Balbuena, PRIMER Group of Companies AVP & GM Darwin Bañez, Delsey Brand Mgr Redg De Vera. The 19th French Film Fest will run from June 10-15, 2014 at Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1, tickets are at 100 pesos. Photo by Jude Bautista

This year’s festival features newly released French films that will be screened to the public from June 10-15 at the Greenbelt 3 Cinemas for a minimal price of P100. The line up of films include LA VENUS A LA FORTUNE (VENUS IN FUR), MONE AME PAR TOI GUERIE (ONE OF A KIND), UNE AUTRE VIE (LOVERS), AMOUR ET TURBULENCES (LOVE IS IN THE AIR), LES BEAUX JOURS (BRIGHT DAYS AHEAD), L’ECUME DES JOURS (MOOD INDIGO), QUAI D’ORSAY and SITUATION AMOUREUSE: C’EST COMPLIQUE (RELATIONSHIP STATUS: ITS COMPLICATED).

from left: TV5 Business Development Ian Monsod, TV5 Pres TV5 Pres. Noel Lorenzana and IBC Pres. Lito Ocampo Cruz. The 19th French Film Fest will run from June 10-15, 2014 at Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1, tickets are at 100 pesos. Photo by Jude Bautista

Outstanding Filipino films have gained renown in different international film festivals throughout the years. French viewers have been taking a keen interest in Philippine cinema, with the likes of Brillante Mendoza and Raya Martin becoming household names in France.

from right: TV5 reporter MJ Marfori and ABS CBN reporter Marie Lozano. The 19th French Film Fest will run from June 10-16, 2014 at Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1, tickets are at 100 pesos. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right: TV5 reporter MJ Marfori and ABS CBN reporter Marie Lozano. The 19th French Film Fest will run from June 10-15, 2014 at Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1, tickets are at 100 pesos. Photo by Jude Bautista

The 19^th French Film Festival also pays tribute to Filipino filmmaking on June 12, Independence Day. The fest will screen three masterpieces that have had the honor of being showcased at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival: Lino Brocka’s digitally restored MAYNILA SA KUKO NG LIWANAG, Erik Matti’s OTJ and Lav Diaz’ NORTE HANGGANAN NG KASAYSAYAN.

For screening schedules and film synopses visit Spot.ph or the Embassy of France to the Philippines official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/FrenchEmbassyManila

Tickets for the films will be on sale for a minimal price of P100 at the Greenbelt 3 cinemas.

The 19th French Film Festival is organized by the Embassy of France to the Philippines, the Alliance française de Manille and Institut Français, in partnership with the Film Development Council of the Philippines, and in cooperation with Greenbelt, Ayala Malls Cinemas, and Ayala Center. The festival was made possible with the support of L’Oréal, Total, Peugeot, Sledgers, Kickers, Delsey, Le Cellier, Perrier, Monin, and Marithé François Girbaud, together with our official media partners: Solar News Channel, TV5, Town & Country Magazine, BusinessWorld, High Life, HerWord.com, Status Magazine, Travelife Magazine, and Spot.ph.

For inquiries, contact the Embassy of France to the Philippines at 0936 919 6097 or send an email to frenchfilmfest@gmail.com.

TV5 Artista Academy alums from left: Mark Neumann and Akihiro Blanco. The 19th French Film Fest will run from June 10-16, 2014 at Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1, tickets are at 100 pesos. Photo by Jude Bautista

TV5 Artista Academy alums from left: Mark Neumann and Akihiro Blanco. The 19th French Film Fest will run from June 10-15, 2014 at Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1, tickets are at 100 pesos. Photo by Jude Bautista

2nd from left H.E. French Amb. Gilles Garachon, from left: French AudioVisual Attaché Martin Macalintal, French Press Attache Camille Conde, FDCP Chairman Briccio Santos and Cannes Award winning filmmaker Brillante Mendoza. The 19th French Film Fest will run from June 10-15, 2014 at Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1, tickets are at 100 pesos. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Taiwanese model Jessica Yang has made Manila her home. The 19th French Film Fest will run from June 10-16, 2014 at Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1, tickets are at 100 pesos. Photo by Jude Bautista

Taiwanese model Jessica Yang has made Manila her home. The 19th French Film Fest will run from June 10-15, 2014 at Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1, tickets are at 100 pesos. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: FDCP Exec Dir Teddy Granados, Quintin Cu Unjieng, PDI Entertainment reporter Marinel Cruz and Phil. Film Export Service Office Exec Dir. Jose Miguel Dela Rosa. The 19th French Film Fest will run from June 10-15, 2014 at Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1, tickets are at 100 pesos. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Lance Raymundo and Stylist Regina Raymundo. The 19th French Film Fest will run from June 10-16, 2014 at Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1, tickets are at 100 pesos. Photo by Jude Bautista

Lance Raymundo and Stylist Regina Raymundo. The 19th French Film Fest will run from June 10-15, 2014 at Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1, tickets are at 100 pesos. Photo by Jude Bautista

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3rd from left H.E. French Amb. Gilles Garachon, from left: FDCP Exec Dir Teddy Granados, French Counselor for Cooperation and Cultural Affairs Michel Villar, FDCP Chairman Briccio Santos, French AudioVisual Attaché Martin Macalintal and Phil. Film Export Service Office Exec Dir. Jose Miguel Dela Rosa. The 19th French Film Fest will run from June 10-16, 2014 at Greenbelt 3 Cinema 1, tickets are at 100 pesos. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Hard Fought CLEAR Dream Match Victory for TEAM James

June 9, 2014, 5:41 am

≫ Next: 37th Gawad Urian Awards

≪ Previous: French Phil Cinema Flourishes

James Younghusband and his much deserved CLEAR DREAM MATCH Trophy. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

Although it was an exhibition game it was played with as much intensity and ferocity as any international match the AZKALS have played abroad. It was the third and deciding game between Team James and Team Phil Younghusband. An equal amount of AZKALS players were there for each squad reinforced with legends from Manchester United.

Unilever’s head of PR for Personal Care Apples Aberin gives out the medal for TEAM JAMES. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Andy Cole runs past Paul Schole behind them is Simon Greatwich. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Pinoys trooped to the University of Makati Stadium to witness the conclusion along with Manchester United’s Andy Cole and Paul Scholes. Upcoming players that were discovered through the CLEAR grass roots program were also part of the line up.

from left: Phil Younghusband and TEAM JAMES’ Valentine Kama. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Ticket sales of the CLEAR DREAM MATCH benefitted the Tuloy Foundation founded by DON BOSCO, which aims to help street kids be integrated to mainstream society. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Last April, CLEAR brought Manchester United trainers and coaches and taught 32 up coming players under 20, which were whittled down to 6. They were divided to play in the CLEAR DREAM MATCH as well: Javier Augstine Gayoso, Miko Mabanag and Yoshiharu Koizumi for TEAM PHIL and Jose Primo Santos, Daniel Gadia and Joseph Diamante for TEAM JAMES.

Ticket sales from the sold out venue also benefitted the Tuloy Foundation, which aims to help street kids be integrated to mainstream society.

Roland Sadia lifts his BEST GOAL KEEPER award and the CLEAR DREAM MATCH Trophy. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Defense and teamwork ruled the first half, as both squads were able to foil attempts for goals. TEAM JAMES’ Roland Sadia was a steady goalkeeper saving goal attempts more than twice. His defense included a free kick from Phil Younghusband. Sadia’s efforts were awarded with the BEST GOAL KEEPER of the Game.

TEAM JAMES’ Goalie Ed Sacapano saves the ball while Player of the game awardee Joaquin Cañas stops himself from landing on him. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

(left) TEAM JAMES’ Andy Cole breaks the defense of TEAM PHIL’s Roxy Dorlas. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

The second half was looser offensively. Andy Cole is one of the most prolific scorers ever to wear a Manchester United uniform. We found out why, he had a very close goal attempt off an assist from Misagh Bahadoran but was still unsuccessful. Immediately after that Joaquin Cañas aggressively took the ball closer and scored at the 72^nd minute. Cole was able to break down the defense enough while Cañas took the initiative to score the precious goal for team James.

from left Boy’s Night Out’s Toni Tone and BEST DEFENDER & PLAYER OF THE GAME awardee Joaquin Cañas. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

TEAM PHIL from left: Mark Hartmann and Phil Younghusband wait before the free kick. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

TEAM PHIL from left: Mark Hartmann looks at Phil Younghusband taking the free kick. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Team Phil valiantly tried to get back into it. Phil Younghusband himself tried so hard it may have led to an injury. In the last 5 minutes the ball was high in the air Phil tried to keep possession with a header. Unfortunately Reynald Villareal of TEAM James also had the same idea, which, resulted in both players clashing heads. Phil had to be taken out of the game for stitches. While painful, the injury is not expected to affect the future performance of the most famous AZKAL.

Paul Schole of TEAM PHIL measures his kick. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: TEAM JAMES’ Izzo El Habib and TEAM PHIL’s Simone Rota. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

TEAM PHIL foreground from right: Simone Rota, Paul Schole, Matthew Hartmann, Roxy Dorlas, Kenshiro Daniels standing from right: Patrick Deyto, Samuel Booney, Phil Younghusband, Chris Greatwich, Andrew Santiago and Mark Hartmann. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

The game ended 1-0 in favor of TEAM James. Most pundits believed that TEAM Phil had the slightly stronger line up. Simone Rota, Kenshiro Daniels, Chris Greatwich were all revelations in the recently concluded AFC Cup. Paul Scholes was also seen as a better all around player than Andy Cole. Long time DLSU Football coach Hans Smit picked TEAM Phil to win but again only with a slight edge.

left: DLSU football coach Hans Smit. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Rivermaya kept the energy high at halftime. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Unilever’s Head of PR for Personal Care Apples Aberin, CLEAR Brand Mgr Andrew Copuyoc, BEST STRIKER awardee Izzo El Habib and Unilever’s VP for Personal Care Gina Lorenzana. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

TEAM JAMES, evidently wanted the win more. They swept each of the special awards: Izzo El Habib was the BEST STRIKER, Simon Greatwich earned BEST MIDFIELDER while Joaquin Cañas earned both the BEST DEFENDER award and the BEST PLAYER OF THE GAME.

Simon Greatwich attempts a goal for TEAM JAMES. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Unilever’s Head of PR for Personal Care Apples Aberin, CLEAR Brand Mgr Andrew Copuyoc, BEST MIDFIELDER awardee Simon Greatwich and Unilever’s VO for Personal Care Gina Lorenzana. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Andy Cole runs past Paul Schole behind them is Simon Greatwich. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

The significance of the CLEAR DREAM MATCH is much more than just having a few international professional players in an exhibition here. CLEAR Brand Manager Andrew Copuyoc explained, “We all know basketball is the no.1 sport here in the Philippines but CLEAR will never stop dreaming football will become the most popular sport in this country. I do believe the trilogy especially with the legends from Manchester United has helped CLEAR’s dream to become a reality.”

from right: Unilever’s VP for Personal Care Gina Lorenzana, CLEAR Brand Mgr Andrew Copuyoc, Unilever’s Head of PR for Personal Care Apples Aberin and Bea Lagdameo. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

The University of Makati Stadium was sold out. Fans lined up hours before the match. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

TEAM PHIL’s Paul Schole and TEAM JAMES’ Misagh Bahadoran. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Paul Scholes said it may have been James’ faith in his team that made the difference, “People have been very nice here in the Philippines especially those who’ve looked after us. It’s great to be here. It sucks to lose the game but James was very confident maybe he was right. He railed the referee a bit but they did really well. The first half we had decent chances with the penalty as well. It didn’t quite work out as we planned. But it was a really enjoyable game and the people are nice here.”

from left: Andy Cole, TV5 reporter Joan Ignacio and James Younghusband. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: (Referee) Carlie De Murga-DNP, Paul Schole, Phil Younghusband, 2 referees, James Younghusband, Andy Cole, Nate Burkey and referee. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Chris Greatwich, Paul Schole, CLEAR Brand Mgr Andrew Copuyoc, Andy Cole and James Younghusband. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Chris Greatwich also put the presence of the two Manchester United legends in perspective, “When you have players of this caliber as Phil said is a privilege. We also get to play with our friends. For the Filipino football public it’s such a rush seeing these players in action for this game.”

TEAM JAMES celebrates their goal near fans. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

TEAM JAMES Players from left: Izzo El Habib, Andy Cole and Simon Greatwich with kids from Tuloy Foundation. Ticket sales of the CLEAR DREAM MATCH benefitted the Tuloy Foundation founded by DON BOSCO, which aims to help street kids be integrated to mainstream society.

James added, “You saw the crowd reaction every time you got him (Andy Cole) the ball. Me and Phil we’ve been lucky enough to hang out with them. These are truly fantastic guys, nice guys really down to earth. If they come back here in the future, just give me a call and I’ll take care of you.”

Paul Schole passes to teammate for TEAM PHIL. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: James Younghusband said it was a privilege to play with Man U legend Andy Cole. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Rivermaya kept the energy high at halftime. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: SAM YG of TEAM PHIL and celebrated drummer Jun Boy Leonor THE DAWN. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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The sexiest legs belong to Unilever’s Head of PR for Personal Care and supermodel Apples Aberin. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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James Younghusband is hounded by the media. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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TEAM PHIL’s Matthew Hartmann gets inside of TEAM JAMES defense. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

TEAM JAMES from left: Izzo El Habib, Simon Geratwich James Younghusband and Joaquin Cañas defend the free kick. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Carlie De Murga did not suit up for TEAM PHIL because of injury. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

TEAM JAMES standing from left: James Younghusband, Andy Cole, Izzo El Habib, Roland Sadia, Joaquin Cañas and Valentine Kama, foreground from left: Simon Greatwich, Daisuke Sato, Joo Young Lee, OJ Porteria and Anton Del Rosario. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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DJ Toni Tone of Boy’s Night Out hugs Nate Burkey. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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James Younghusband lifts the CEAR DEAM MATCH Trophy after a tough series. THE CLEAR DREAM MATCH was held at the sold out University of Makati Stadium last June 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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37th Gawad Urian Awards

June 18, 2014, 2:33 am

≫ Next: Feasting on Fête de la Musique 2014

≪ Previous: Hard Fought CLEAR Dream Match Victory for TEAM James

from right: Best Director Hannah Espia (TRANSIT), Best Actor Joel Torre (OTJ), Best Actress Angeli Bayani (NORTE HANGGANANA NG KASAYSAYAN), Best Supporting Actress Angel Aquino (ANG HULING CHACHA NI ANITA) and Best Supporting Actor Junjun Quintana (A PHILIPPINO STORY). The 37th Gawad Urian Awards was held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Photos by

Jude Bautista

One of the big upsets of the night was Angeli Bayani who won BEST ACTRESS for NORTE HANGGANAN NG KASAYSAYAN. The Best Actress category had heavy names from Nora Aunor, Vilma Santos, Cherie Gil, Eugene Domingo, Agot Isidro, Rustica Carpio.

Hosts Piolo Pascual (OTJ) & Bianca Gonzalez during the 37th Gawad Urian Awards held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Nominees from right: Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Music Armando ‘Bing’ Lao (DUKIT), filmmaker Arnel Mardoquio and Kei Tan of RIDDLES OF MY HOMECOMING which won Best Editing- Chuck Gutierrez. The 37th Gawad Urian Awards was held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

There were multiple nominations such as Perry Dizon (Best Production Design, Best Music) Armando Lao was nominated in Best Direction, Screenplay and Music. Angel Aquino was nominated for 2 films PORNO and won Best Supporting actress for HULING CHACHA NI ANITA. Rody Vera shared his Best Screenplay award with Lav Diaz in NORTE HANGGANAN NG KASAYSAYAN. Vera was also nominated for DEATH MARCH & BADIL.

Awardees from left: Emerson Texon (Best Music--SONATA), Atty. Julius Matibag, creative consultant representing Adjani Arumpac (Best Documentary-NANAY MAMENG), Chuck Gutierrez (Best Editing- RIDDLES OF MY HOMECOMING), Best Supporting Actress Angel Aquino (ANG HULING CHACHA NI ANITA), Best Actress Angeli Bayani (NORTE HANGGANAN NG KASAYSAYAN), Best Supporting Actor Junjun Quintana (A PHILIPPINO STORY), Best Actor Joel Torre (OTJ), Best Director Hannah Espia (TRANSIT), Corinne de San Jose (Best Sound--OTJ), 2nd Assistant Director Lir dela Cruz and Line Producer Maya Quirino represented Lav Diaz as NORTE SA HANGGANAN NG KASAYSAYAN also won Best Picture, Best Screenplay (Lav Diaz and Rody Vera) and Best Cinematography (Lauro Rene Manda). The 37th Gawad Urian Awards was held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Awardees from left: Emerson Texon (Best Music–SONATA), Zig Carlo Dulay (Best Short Film—MISSING), Atty. Julius Matibag, Human Rights Lawyer representing Adjani Arumpac (Best Documentary-NANAY MAMENG), Chuck Gutierrez (Best Editing- RIDDLES OF MY HOMECOMING), Best Supporting Actress Angel Aquino (ANG HULING CHACHA NI ANITA), Best Actress Angeli Bayani (NORTE HANGGANAN NG KASAYSAYAN), Best Supporting Actor Junjun Quintana (A PHILIPPINO STORY), Best Actor Joel Torre (OTJ), Best Director Hannah Espia (TRANSIT), Corinne de San Jose (Best Sound–OTJ), 2nd Assistant Director Lir dela Cruz and Line Producer Maya Quirino represented Lav Diaz as NORTE SA HANGGANAN NG KASAYSAYAN also won Best Picture, Best Screenplay-NOT IN PHOTO: (Lav Diaz and Rody Vera) and Best Cinematography (Lauro Rene Manda). The 37th Gawad Urian Awards was held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Awards LIST with nominees:

Best Picture:

Winner: Norte Hangganan ng Kasaysayan

OTJ

Transit

Ekstra

Riddles of my Homecoming

Badil

Ang Kuwento ni Mabuti

Porno

Dukit

Best Actress nominee Cheri Gil (SONATA) and Best Actor Joel Torre (OTJ). The 37th Gawad Urian Awards was held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Best Actor:

Winner: Joel Torre (OTJ)

Mark Gil (A Philipino Story)

Mimi Juarenza (Quick Change)

Sid Lucero (Norte Hangganan ng Kasaysayan)

Ping Medina (Transit)

Jhong Hilario (Badil)

Alex Medina (Babagwa)

Karl Medina with Best Actress Angeli Bayani (NORTE HANGGANAN NG KASAYSAYAN). Angeli is wearing a design by Tatah Galias. The 37th Gawad Urian Awards was held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Best Actress:

Winner: Angeli Bayani (Norte Hangganan ng Kasaysayan)

Nora Aunor (Mabuti)

Vilma Santos (Ekstra)

Cherie Gil (Sonata)

Eugene Domingo (Instant Mommy)

Rustica Carpio (Ano ang Kulay ng mga Nakalimutang Pangarap?)

Agot Isidro (Mga Anino ng Kahapon)

Vivian Velez (Bendor)

Lorna Tolentino (Burgos)

Jasmine Curtis Smith (TRANSIT) is also TV5’s JASMINE. Beside her is Best Supporting Actor nominee Archie Alemania (NORTE HANGGANAN NG KASAYSAYAN). The 37th Gawad Urian Awards was held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Best Supporting Actor:

Winner: Junjun Quintana (A Philippino Story)

Art Acuna (Kabisera)

John Arcilla (Metro Manila)

Joey Marquez (OTJ)

Yul Servo (Porno)

Carlo Aquino (Porno)

Victor Basa (Lauriana)

Cesar Montano (Alamat ni China Doll)

Archie Alemania (Norte Hangganan ng Kasaysayan)

Bor Ocampo (Dukit)

from left: Best Supporting Actor nominee Joey Marquez (OTJ) and Best Actor nominee Sid Lucero (NORTE HANGGANAN NG KASAYSAYAN). The 37th Gawad Urian Awards was held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Ravishing Best Supporting Actress Angel Aquino (ANG HULING CHACHA NI ANITA). The 37th Gawad Urian Awards was held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Best Supporting Actress:

Winner: Angel Aquino (Ang Huling Cha-Cha ni Anita)

Angel Aquino (Porno)

Mitch Smith (Angustia)

Ruby Ruiz (Ekstra)

Jasmine Curtis-Smith (Transit)

Raquel Villavicencio (Dukit)

Best Direction:

Winner: Hannah Espia (Transit)

Erik Matti (OTJ)

Lav Diaz (Norte Hangganan ng Kasaysayan)

Jeffrey Jeturian (Ekstra)

Peque Gallaga and Lorie Reyes (Sonata)

Arnel Mardoquio (Riddles of My Homecoming)

Alvin Yapan (Mga Anino ng Kahapon)

Whammy Alcazaren (Islands)

Chito Rono (Badil)

Mes de Guzman (Ang Kuwento ni Mabuti)

Adolf Alix Jr. (Porno)

Armando Lao (Dukit)

from left: Cinema One Channel Head Ronald Arguelles, Soliman Cruz of (NORTE HANGGANAN NG KASAYSAYAN), Cinema One Selection Committee member Lilit Reyes and Ping Medina (TRANSIT). The 37th Gawad Urian Awards was held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Best Screenplay:

Winner: Lav Diaz and Rody Vera NORTE HANGGANAN NG KASAYSAYAN

Michiko Yamamoto and Erik Matti (OTJ)

Rody Vera BADIL

Giancarlo Abrahan and Hannah Espia TRANSIT

Jason Paul Laxamana (Babagwa)

Ralsston Jover (Porno)

Rody Vera (Death March)

Armando Lao (Dukit)

2nd Assistant Director Lir dela Cruz and Line Producer Maya Quirino represented Lav Diaz as NORTE SA HANGGANAN NG KASAYSAYAN won Best Picture, Best Actress (Angeli Diaz), Best Screenplay (Lav Diaz and Rody Vera) and Best Cinematography (Lauro Rene Manda). The 37th Gawad Urian Awards was held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Best Production Design:

Winner: Adolfo Alix Jr. (Porno)

Jun jun Montelbano (Sonata)

Perry Dizon (Riddles of my Homecoming)

Richard Somes (OTJ)

Ericsson Navarro (Ekstra)

Kip Oebanda (Shift)

Leo Abaya and Olga Marie Marquez (Dukit)

Emerson Texon (Best Music–SONATA) during the 37th Gawad Urian Awards held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Best Music:

Winner: Emerson Texon (Sonata)

Nonong Buencamino (Lauriana)

Perry Dizon (Norte Hangganan ng Kasaysayan)

Gauss Obenza (Riddles of My Homecoming)

Armando Lao (Dukit)

Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino seated from left: Phl Star Columnist Butch Francisco, Dr. Mike Rapatan, Dr. Grace Javier Alfonso standing from left: Dr Nick Tiongson , Head of Cinema One and Velvet channels Ronald Arguelles, Ntl Artist for Literature Bien Lumbera, Mario Hernando, Tito Valiente and Dr. Roland Tolentino. The 37th Gawad Urian Awards was held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Best Cinematography:

Winner: Lauro Rene Manda (Norte Hangganan ng Kasaysayan)

Arnel Barbarona, Bordie Carillo and McRobert Nacario (Riddles of My Homecoming)

Ben Cruz and Lyle Nemenzo Sacris (Transit)

Francis Ricardo Buhay (OTJ)

Albert Banzon (Porno)

Sasha Palomares (Islands)

Diego Marx Dobles, Triztan Garcia, Jeffrey Icawat and Bruno Tiotuico (Dukit)

Chuck Gutierrez (Best Editing- RIDDLES OF MY HOMECOMING) during the 37th Gawad Urian Awards held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Best Editing:

Winner: Chuck Gutierrez (Riddles of My Homecoming)

Jay Halili (OTJ)

Lav Diaz (Norte Hangganan ng Kasaysayan)

Aleksandr Castañeda (Porno)

Benjamin Tolentino and Hannah Espia (Transit)

Diego Marx Dobles (Dukit)

Manunuri ng Pelikulang Pilipino members from left: Butch Francisco, Tito Valiente and Host Piolo Pascual (OTJ). The 37th Gawad Urian Awards was held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Corinne de San Jose (Best Sound–OTJ) during the 37th Gawad Urian Awards held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Best Sound:

Winner: Corinne de San Jose (OTJ)

Corinne de San Jose (Norte Hangganan ng Kasaysayan)

Addiss Tabong and Wild Sound (Ekstra)

Albert Michael Idioma (Porno)

Arnel Barbarona (Riddles of My Homecoming)

Mes De Guzman (Ang Kwento ni Mabuti)

Mark Locsin (Death March)

Armando Lao (Dukit)

from left: MPP Butch Francisco, Dr. Mike Rapatan and host Bianca Gonzalez. The 37th Gawad Urian Awards was held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

right: Best Editing awardee Chuck Gutierrez (RIDDLES OF MY HOMECOMING) with Best Documentary nominee Baby Ruth Villarama (JAZZ IN LOVE). The 37th Gawad Urian Awards was held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Best Short Film

Winner: MISSING by Zig Carlo Dulay

INDAYOG NG NAYATAMAK by John Rhys C. Fernandez

MAY DINADALA by Giancarlo Lauro C. Abrahan

ASAN SI LOLO ME? by Sari Estrada

THE HOUSEBAND’S WIFE by Paolo O’Hara

ONANG by JE Tiglao

WALAY KATAPUSANG ADLAW by Glenmark Doromal

CON ENFERMEDAD Y BUEN SALUD by Xeph Suarez

Carmen Deunida is NANAY MAMENG who had the most emotional speech. She accepted the award for BEST DOCUMENTARY (NANAY MAMAENG) for filmmaker Adjani Arumpac who based it on her life as an 86-year-old activist and organizer of women’s group Samahan ng Maralitang Kababaihang Nagkakaisa (Samakana). The 37th Gawad Urian Awards was held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Best Documentary

Winner: NANAY MAMENG by Adjani Arumpac

WAR IS A TENDER THING by Adjani Arumpac

JAZZ IN LOVE by Baby Ruth Villarama

THE PRIVILEGED MIGRANTS by Rica Arevalo

ATI-ATIHAN LIVES by Patrick Alcedo

URIAN awardees’ selfie from left: Best Editing (RIDDLES OF MY HOMECOMING) Chuck Gutierrez with Best Supporting Actress Angel Aquino (ANG HULING CHACHA NI ANITA) and Best Actress Angeli Bayani (NORTE HANGGANANA NG KASAYSAYAN). The 37th Gawad Urian Awards was held at the Dolphy Theater last June 17, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista.

↧

Feasting on Fête de la Musique 2014

June 23, 2014, 5:47 am

≫ Next: Eiga Sai’s Bittersweet REUNION

≪ Previous: 37th Gawad Urian Awards

SAMBA SCHOOL IMPERATRIZ FILIPINENSE brought the rhythms of Brazil at the A Venue stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

Rain fell on my head literally after a particularly depressing day. My romantic life hasn’t existed for 14 years. This day it seemed even more bleak, empty and senseless. Suicide is just a word until you feel trapped and so desperate that there’s no other way your mind can cope. French Press Attaché Camille Conde and I had just gotten in a cab on our way to the third location for Fête de la Musique, when a familiar song played on the radio. It was TAG-ULAN by AFTER IMAGE. Hearing it was like meeting an old friend, it picked me up from depression a decade and a half ago,

Lyrics to TAG ULAN performed by AFTER IMAGE written by Wency Cornejo.

Minsan ika’y nag-iisa, walang makasama

Di malaman saan tutungo

Naghahanap, nag- iisip kung saan babaling

Dito sa mundong mapaglaro

At tuwing ika’y na lulumbay, di maka kita

Nais mo na may makasama

Sa iyong lungkot akala mo ika’y nag-iisa

Narito ako’t kapiling ka

From left: Chuck Isidro (guitarist), Rogie Callejo (drums) Bobbit Uson (bassist) Photo from AFTER Image Greatest Hits Album.

Kung nais mong ika’y lumuha

Ako’y makikinig sa bawat salita

Kapag umuulan bumuhos ang langit’sa ‘yong mga mata

Kapag mayroon unos ay aagos ang luha

Ngunit ‘di ka mag- iisa, kaibigan

Kay rami nang mga tanong sa iyong isipan

Nais mo lamang ay malaman

Bakit nagka ganoon ang nangyari sa ‘yong buhay

Tanong mo man sa aki’y, di ko alam

Handa akong maging tanggulan

Sa tuwing sasapit’sa’yo ang tag-ulan

Kapag umuulan bumubuhos ang langit’sa’yong mga mata

Kapag mayroong unos ay aagos ang luha ngunit di ka mag-iisa

Ako’y na ririto, naghihintay lamang sa’yo

Tumawag ka’t ako ay tatakbo sa piling mo, kaibigan!

(Lyrics from) http://artists.letssingit.com/after-image-lyrics-tag-ulan-z9f8gj2#axzz35RuzppXK

AFTER IMAGE From left: Wency Cornejo (vocals/songwriter) and Arnold Cabalza (keyboards) Photo from AFTER Image Greatest Hits Album

Both the vocals and lyrics were by Wency Cornejo, who was lead singer of AFTER IMAGE at the time. Wency is the same guy who wrote and performed HABANG MAY BUHAY, which is a ballad that has been remade by everyone from Regine Velasquez to Sarah Geronimo. Wency has a knack for writing powerful emotional lyrics and combining them with haunting melodies. TAG-ULAN speaks about the same desperation and sense of loss that I felt and even if friends don’t necessarily give you a solution, someone’s there for you.

top: French Cultural Attaché Ariane Tricaud has fun during Fete. Bottom (left) that’s IMAGO’s guitarist Zach Lucero shooting a pic of Ebe Dancel, (center) Pinays and French women have a ball (right) fans tweet the latest at the Plaza Maestranza Intramuros stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Just like the previous time 15 years ago, it made me feel better, if only temporarily. Music has the power to give us hope and move us in so many different ways. That’s what Fête de la Musique basically is, a celebration of music. They make sure to give us a feast of a lot of different genres and tastes. We have the French to thank for thinking of such a ‘fete’ or Fiesta to us that have been so influenced by the Spaniards.

By the time we got to A Venue, I felt renewed. There were so many food stalls, people having cheap street food, a variety of inihaw (charbroiled meats). The crowd was a huge mix of tourists, different races and ages all coming together for…free music.

H.E. French Amb. Gilles Garachon at the Plaza Maestranza Intramuros stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

In the first location where I met with Camille was at the Plaza Maestranza in Intramuros. One of the most loved and respected diplomats; French Ambassador Gilles Garachon was able to say a few words. He looked every bit like a rock star himself. He mentioned the fact that Fete had been running for 20 years. He also thanked and credited Sabrina Durand who had organized Fete Dela Musique for the past 7 years and was now going back home to France. Durand has quite an achievement. For this year alone there were 3 main stages (A Venue, Greenbelt 3, Plaza Maestranza), 19 pocket stages with over 200 acts.

Center: H.E. French Amb. Gilles Garachon from left: Alliance Francaise de Manille Dir. Patrick Deyvant Patrick Deyvant, AFM Cultural Counsellor Sabrina Durand, French Counselor for Cooperation and Cultural Affairs Michel Villar and French Cultural Attaché Ariane Tricaud at the Plaza Maestranza Intramuros stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Center: H.E. French Amb. Gilles Garachon from left: Alliance Francaise de Manille Dir. Patrick Deyvant, AFM Cultural Counsellor Sabrina Durand, French Counselor for Cooperation and Cultural Affairs Michel Villar and French Cultural Attaché Ariane Tricaud at the Plaza Maestranza Intramuros stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Amb Garachon encapsulated the concept, “Fête de la Musique aims to showcase the breadth and depth of Filipino talent while promoting universal values such as freedom, cultural diversity as well as generosity, as most of the artists are performing for free. The spirit of Fête also promotes brotherhood among nations and the joy to share together the same passion for music, art and culture.”

From right: H.E. French Amb. Gilles Garachon and PERYODIKO’s Ebe Dancel at the Plaza Maestranza Intramuros stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Beautiful couple: ABS CBN Sports’ Mia Cabalfin and KJWAN front man Marc Abaya at the Plaza Maestranza Intramuros stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

The 20th year has grown more than the many different genres of music reggae, jazz, alternative, electronica and so on, there are also theatrical groups and performance art. The theatrical group SIPAT LAWIN ENSEMBLE immediately switched gears in Intramuros doing their humorous, interactive play ON THIS SITE WILL RISE.

Barbie Almalbis at the Plaza Maestranza Intramuros stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

SIPAT LAWIN ENSEMBLE Mng Dir Joseph Keith Anicoche at the Plaza Maestranza Intramuros stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Sipat Lawin Ensemble Mng Dir Joseph Keith Anicoche, in character talked about not having panties morning, noon and night, proceeded to speak Spanish enumerating the names of districts and streets in Manila Escolta, Quiapo, España, Parañaque, Libertad…”. He was followed by 4 sexy girls in high heels, wearing highway construction safety vests in neon orange and hard hats. They led the crowd to the tunnels in Intramuros walls. The ‘show’ mesmerized the likes of former NCCA Film Head Teddy Co, Ballet Phil Artistic Director Paul Morales and Carlos Celdran. JK Anicoche gave credit to Celdran’s play as inspiration to ON THIS SITE will RISE during the performance.

THE SIPAT LAWIN ENSEMBLE start off ON THIS SITE WILL RISE on outdoor stage and transfers to the tunnels of Intramuros at the Plaza Maestranza. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Left: Hot couple Carlos & Tesa Celdran, right (middle) SOFIA’s Teddy Co and BP Artistic Director Paul Morales right (bottom) KJWAN’s Kelly Mangahas at the Plaza Maestranza Intramuros stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

On our way to Makati French Audio Visual Attaché Martin Macalintal reminded me of 2011 when a typhoon went through the morning and afternoon of Fete and dissipated just in time when the show started. The weather was perfect clear and cool by the time the likes of KAMIKAZEE hit the stage.

from left: fans take selfies, Metropolitan Museum Public Affairs Grace Cayanan and French Audio Visual Attache Martin Macalintal and Barbie Almalbis at the Plaza Maestranza Intramuros stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: fans take selfies, Metropolitan Museum Sr Coordinator Grace Cayanan and French Audio Visual Attache Martin Macalintal and Barbie Almalbis at the Plaza Maestranza Intramuros stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

PHILPOP 2013 1st Runner Up Johnoy Danao at A_ Space Acoustic lounge. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Makati was a different vibe from Intramuros. A_Space bar had a laid-back acoutstic atmosphere. I caught a glimpse of Kitchie Nadal in the elevator. Then it was PHIL POP 1st Runner Up awardee Johnoy Danao’s turn. His signature touching lyrics and guitar playing had even foreigners feeling the love in his Tagalog songs.

Top right: Aya Yuson is moved to tears after Johnoy Danao dedicates an IMAGO song to her at A_ Space Acoustic lounge. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

The lovely Kat Agarado of SINOSIKAT at the A Venue stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

By the time we got to A Venue we saw the lovely Kat Agarrado walking backstage. She had just finished her set with RADIO ACTIVE SAGO PROJECT. Another old friend Jack Daniel’s bar was serving whiskey with Coca-Cola. My first taste of Jack was also when I first met my childhood idols THE DAWN. Vocalist Jett Pangan had one bottle for himself and was urging me to try it. That’s when I found out how Jack Daniel’s was a little too strong for my taste. For tonight, I needed it to be strong and take away everything that I was feeling earlier. Our pulutan was very Filipino. Camille treated me to my first isaw and pig’s ear.

From left: DJ ATTEND from France, Sinosikats’ Kat Agarrado with REKLAMO vocalist Marco Roboto and girlfriend Abby Dulay at the A Venue stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

French artist DJ ATTEND at the A Venue stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

French DJ Jon Attend gave the crowd a taste of European dance beats. PEDICAB immediately set up after him. Their combination of Disco and punk revved up the crowd with their hits OTOMATIK, SIMULAN MO NA and FX.

PEDICAB at the A Venue stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

PEDICAB revved up A Venue main stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

left photo: DJ Nix Damn P of MOTHERBASSS at the A Venue stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Then there was this duo I had never seen before, one was a DJ the other a drummer. The DJ looked almost exactly like David Blane except for a shorter haircut and a small Philippine flag draped around his shoulders like a Boy Scout neckerchief. DJ Nix Damn P has the same weird mysterious eyes going on and badass goatee as one of the most recognizable magicians in the world. Calling MOTHERBASSS as just a DJ act would be a disservice. Along with drummer Macky Brillantes, MOTHERBASSS is closer to a performance art.

MOTHERBASSS is a fresh talent that got the crowd moving at the A Venue stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Their song ULTRA GUN is a “mix of jazzy tunes, laced with funk mixes, hip hop samples and Motown vibes, lathered in brisk and snappy drum play” as they described it. Apart from the genres and catchy beats Nix Damn P feels the music by raising his hand in the air, suddenly coming out from behind the turntables and jumping in the air.

MOTHERBASSS’ DJ Nix Damn P at the A Venue stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Motherbass1: right photo: drummer Macky Brillantes of MOTHERBASSS at the A Venue stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Macky would roll a drumstick in his fingers, throw it high and catch it. Macky would also cover his Mohawk with a hoodie and start jumping up and down getting the crowd to go crazy even more after the beats. THEY FEEL their music more than you do and it creates its own energy. Another thing about their music is the sheer unpredictability, after all the heavy synth, bass and drums they’d sample LET’S GE IT ON by BARRY WHITE. In spite of vastly different rhythms, they make it all work.

The final act on the stage was not any less energetic, although was again from a vastly different genre: IMERATRIZ FILIPINENSE turned Makati into Rio. The WORLD CUP frenzy has reached our shores by way of music. Samba beats dominated the air as dancers shook their bodies like it was the Carnivale. IF that wasn’t enough for you KADARA CAPOEIRA displayed their deadly but entertaining martial art.

KADARA CAPOEIRA shows their kicks and handstands at the A Venue stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

More than any night I needed to get lost in the rhythms, the energy. What I witnessed personally was just a small slice of myriad of musical styles and genres. Music, our own OPM, French DJs, Samba, Jazz, Hip hop, rap, spoken word, blues, reggae, rock and many more were all part of this huge feast we call Fête de la Musique.

***

From 3.30PM to 1:30AM, over 200 local acts and 2 French artists (M.MAT and DJ Jon Attend) rocked the main and pocket stages all over Makati, Intramuros and Malate. Fête de la musique 2014 featured Tropical Depression with Lolita Carbon of Asin, Kalayo with Joey Ayala, Radioactive Sago Project with Kat Agarrado of SinoSikat, Basti Artadi with Radha, Motherbass with June Marieezy, Imago, Pedicab, Barbie Almalbis, Cocojam, Kjwan, Taken by Cars, Flippin’ Soul Stompers, Brigada, Miss Badkiss, Caliph8, Red-I, Philippine All-Stars, just to name a few.

KJWAN from left: Kelley Mangahas and Marc Abaya with French Press Attache Camille Conde at the Plaza Maestranza Intramuros stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

A-Venue Open Parking Main Stage – 3.30pm onwards

Alvin Cornista’s Jazzmatik feat. Med Messiah, Words Anonymous , Blue Rats, Philippine Human Beatbox Alliance, LDP feat. Ron Henley, Philippine All-Stars Kalayo feat. Joey Ayala, Adinkra Lumads, Djembe Community, Planet Zips

Flow Arts Philippines, Tropical Depression feat. Lolita Carbon of Asin, and The Boys Radioactive Sago Project feat. Kat Agarrado, DJ Jon Attend, Motherbass feat. June Marieezy, Basti Artadi feat. Radha, Ebe Dancel feat. Lee Grane, Pedicab, Samba School Imperatriz Filipinense, Kadara Capoeira

Left: Pinoy Metal legend Basti Artadi, (right) fans grab pic with him at the A Venue stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Greenbelt 3 Park Main Stage – Concerts starts at 3.30pm

Brass Pas Pas Pas, Kate Torralba, Noli Aurillo, Badkiss, Christian Hervé , Flippin’ Soul Stompers, Bleu Rascals, Reggae Mistress, Caliph8 & Red-I

MAKATI POCKET STAGES

Acoustic Stage by Li Perez + Generic Mawmaw/Fête Throwback Photo Exhibit@A_Space Gallery / Union Bank on G/F 110 Legazpi St., opposite Greenbelt 5 Line-up: Acoustic Performances by: Bullet Dumas, The Sun Manager, Reese and Vica, BP Valenzuela, Lee Grane, Manskee, Isha Abubakar, Toni B, Tao Aves, Johnoy Danao plus special guests /

Fete Throwback Photographs by: Brendan Goco and Romain Rivierre

Chillout Stage by Radar MNL@Buddha Bar / Picar Place, Kalayaan Avenue Line-up: Techy Romantics, Beach Please, Caliph8, Cheeba, A problem like Maria, Buddha Bar DJs, Alley Kat, Mulan, Emel Rowe, and more.

Rock, Reggae and Ska Stage by Chronic Wheeze + Fool Moon Productions@B-Side /

The Collective, 7274 Malugay St., San Antonio Village

Line-up: Wilabaliw, Embercore, April Morning Skies, The Chongkeys, Faintlight, Imbueno Kudos, Lost Thread, Bad Weather, Fun City Boys, Citrus Lane, Jejaview, Sirens, Give Chance To Run, VOC, Read Between The Lions, On The Spot, Sanctus, Absolute Play, Tropical Depression, Collie Herb, Dreadknot Used, Coffeebreak Island, Goodleaf, Dandimites, Nyte in Tunesia, Surevibe, Tea4two, Barrio Morning Glory and more…

House Party Stage by Personal Space + Durrty Hotdog + Riot House@Black Market + Finders Keepers / Warehouse 5, La Fuerza Plaza 2, Sabio St. near Pasong Tamo Line-up @Black Market: Red-I, Soulflower, Don P, The Zombettes, Major Chie, Samantha, Migs Fuckin’ A., Ras Taro, Asela, Karlo, Xtina, Raymond Ang, Kix Suarezy, Yanna and more, Visuals by Coup D’ Disqo and more… Line-up @Finders Keepers: Boyet Sison, Manolet Dario, Angelo Mendez, Huang + surprise DJs

World Stage by Luna Fest + Musikeraw@Café Curieux / G/F Bel-Air Soho Polaris corner Badajos St. Line-up: Ukulele Philippines, Planet Zips, Flow Arts Philippines, Kadara Capoiera, Talahib, Navy Blue Pants, Dayaw, Kontra Gapi, UP Kekeli West African Ensemble, Jam Perez, Karen Lou Mesina, Anahata, Christ Man, DJ Tribal Enkanto, DJ Lapu Lapu

Art Installation by: Cherry Ann Fulo, Levi Cruz, Beatrice Cruz Puertollano, Delfin, Luis Hernandez Latin Stage@Chihuahua / 7838 Makati Avenue

Line-up: Salsa Manila and Samba School Imperatriz Filipinense

KADARA CAPOEIRA shows their kicks and handstands at the A Venue stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Blues, Soul & Funk Stage by MamboRat Productions@H & J / 5081 Felipe St. Line-up: Kosmikskala with Nitoy Adriano, Kala, Chillitees, Ian Lofamia Blues Band, Conscious & The Goodness, Gin Rum N’ Truth, Bignay Soundsystem, Kakoy Legaspi and The Pasay Jazz

Hip-hop & RnB Stage by Boogie Down Manila@M Café / G/F Greenbelt 4, Makati Ave. cor Dela Rosa St. Ayala Center Line-up: Mike Swift, Qyork, Philippine Allstars, Legit Misfits, Nathan J and more…

Cabaret Stage by PI Jazz Festival Foundation@Murphy’s Pub / Cityland Condo III, 105 V.A. Rufino St. corner Esteban St. Line-up: Michelle Fitzgerald, Stella Ignacio, Carina Quiogue Dignos with Ed Carino & Boy Trillanes, KT Mas, Masashi Tsudaka, Cacophony, Ghost Pepper, Johnny Alegre Trio, Kizotano, The Jireh Calo Project, Tonet Lipana & Lynn Sherman

Mod Stage by MOD Philippines + Ava Prime@Society Lounge /

Avenue corner Paseo de Roxas

Line-up: Neighbors, Dandimites, Goodleaf, Minerva, Dragonfly Collector, Edralins, Flippin’ Soul Stompers, Escolta 3am, The Royal, Sundown Muse, Shane Cosgrove, Chicochongchu, Papamod With the participation of Body Shots 2014 Models, Vespa Club, Mini Cooper Club, Lee Cooper Fashion Show

Jazz Stage by PI Jazz Festival Foundation Hosted by Sandra Lim-Viray@Bayleaf Lounge / 2/F St. Giles Hotel Makati Avenue corner Kalayaan Avenue Line-up: Ed Castañeda, Sara Bichachi, Rayie (Ray & Ayie), Christian Herve, Koko Marbella, Anything Goes with Michael Puyat & Friends, Romy Posadas, Colby de la Calzada, Jun Viray, Arthur Manuntag, Cheryl Santaromana, Margaux Salcedo, Megan Herrera, Rosanna Gaerlan, Sean Manuntag, Tessie Garcia

Electronica Stage by Nomad Massive@Time in Manila / 7840 Makati Ave. (across A-Venue Mall) Line-up main room: Alley Kat, Herbie Walton & Her Cabral, Miss Badkiss & Emel Rowe, Ingo Vogelmann, Pav Parrotte, Martin Lugtu, Alinep

Line-up roof deck: Sparkee, Joee Mejias, Modulogeek, ProcopioKillsAll, GYHT, Turbo Goth, Fdog 13, Red-I, Bauhaus Cloud, No-Rom, Anomaly 1, Liquid A, Soulflower, Toro, Mecha, Kishore, Helen

Indie Stage by NDFY@12 Monkeys / 5/F Century City Mall, Kalayaan Avenue, Makati City Line-up: Ourselves The Elves, The Ransom Collective, Hana, ACBD, Three.!, The Jireh Calo Project, Farewell Fair Weather, Sud, Carlos Castano, Brisom, tide/edit, Pitik, Earthmover, Identikit, Autotelic, Sinyma, Tarsius

PERYODIKO’s Ebe Dancel at the Plaza Maestranza Intramuros stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

FETE DE LA MUSIQUE – INTRAMUROS MAIN STAGE

Maestranza Plaza Main Stage –3.30pm onwards

Banda Kawayan, Chocolate Grass, Similar Objects, Imago, Peryodiko, Barbie Almalbis, Wilderness, Ea Torrado feat. Erick Dizon, Coco Jam ,Humanfolk, Kjwan, Mr. Bones & the Boneyard Circus, Curbside, Taken by Cars, Jack Versus the Crab, DJ John Attend (France)

The SIPAT LAWIN ENSEMBLE performs in an Intramuros tunnel at the Plaza Maestranza. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Maestranza Plaza Art Installations & Street Performances by

Julia Nebrija, Ea Torrado, Leeroy New, Sipat Lawin Ensemble, Kulay Labitigan,

AI Garcia, Chris Aronson, PJ Rebullida, Flow Arts Philippines, Planet Zips, Pasyal Sunday Buskers

INTRAMUROS & MALATE POCKET STAGES

Alternative Rock Stage by Red Ninja@Sazi’s-Kalye Nakpil6 / 44 Nakpil St., Malate Line-up: Tonight We Sleep, Jejaview, A Music Theory, Imelda, Diachroma, The Kents, Sirens, Flying Ipis, Thieves, Paranoid City, Ephesus, Blue Boy Bites Back, Eddie Shawarma

Spoken Word Stage by Speak Philippines@Sev’s Café / Basement Legaspi Towers 300, Roxas Blvd. corner P. Ocampo, Malate (across CCP) Line-up: Speak Philippines, Ipat Luna + Open Mic

Dub Stage by Torta Manila@Heaven Malate / Nakpil St. corner Orosa St., Malate Line-up: Abdel Aziz, Adadub, Allrock, Reiz, SilverFilter, Xombie, Gabby-Z

Nouveau Jazz Stage by PI Jazz Festival Foundation@JPL Hall of Freedom, Lyceum of the Philippines / Muralla corner Real Sts., Intramuros Line-up: PI Jazz artists

Experimental/ Hip Hop Stage@Eat Cafe, V Hotel / 1766 Adriatico Street, Malate. Line-up: Similar Objects, BIN5, Like Animals, NoR, Ayon, Moki Mc Fly, After School, Special, Floating Sound Nation, Sleeper Second, The BGNR, Inkeyes, Zomtendo, Lustbass, Jamessushe, Fxxxybint, Sloj, Impulse Project

fan shoots Barbie Almalbis with SAMSUNG S3 at the Plaza Maestranza Intramuros stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

left: Dominic Roco backstage at A Venue. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Independently organized pocket stages around Makati, Intramuros and Malate were located near the main stages for people to freely jump from one venue to another. They are as follows: Acoustic Stage & Fete Throwback Photo Exhibit by Li Perez + Generic Mawmaw at A_Space; Chillout Stage by Radar MNL at Buddha Bar; Rock/Reggae/Ska Stage by Chronic Wheeze & FoolMoon Productions at B-Side; House Party Stage by Personal Space + Durrty Hotdog + Riot House at Black Market & Finders Keepers; World Stage by Luna Fest & Musikeraw at Café Curieux; Latin Stage at Chihuahua; Blues, Soul & Funk Stage by MamboRat Productions at H&J; Hip-hop & RnB Stage by Boogie Down Manila at M Café; Cabaret Stage by PI Jazz Festival Foundation at Murphy’s Pub; Mod Stage by MOD Philippines + Ava Prime at Society Lounge; Jazz Stage by PI Jazz Festival Foundation hosted by Sandra Lim-Viray at Bayleaf Lounge, St Giles Hotel; Electronica Stage by Nomad Massive at Time in Manila; Indie Stage by NDFY@12 Monkeys in Century City Mall; Alternative Rock Stage by Red Ninja at Sazi’s Kalye Nakpil; Experimental Hip-hop by BuwanBuwan Colletive at Eat Café, V Hotel; Spoken Word Stage by Speak Philippines at Sev’s Café; Bass Beats Breaks Stage by Torta Manila at Heaven Malate; Nouveau Jazz Stage by PI Jazz Festival Foundation at Lyceum University of the Philippines.

MOTHERBASSS’ DJ Nix Damn P at the A Venue stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Fête de la musique 2014 is organized by the Alliance Française de Manille, the Department of Tourism, Intramuros Administration, the Embassy of France to the Philippines in partnership with B-Side Productions and Viva Manila, and through the support from corporate partnerships with Rustan’s, Stores Specialists Inc., Bensimon, Smart, Spinnr and Illustrado; venue partnerships with A.Venue Mall, Ayala Center and Greenbelt; institutional partnerships with the City of Makati, Barangay Poblacion, MAPSA, Makati Police; hotel partnership with Best Western Plus Antel Hotel; and media partnerships with BusinessWorld, High Life, HerWord.com, Esquire, Myx Music Channel, Solar News Channel, Deezer, Yahoo!, Radio Republic, Amplify.ph, Balut Radio, Travelife and the Tourism Promotions Board. Fête de la musique organizers would especially like to acknowledge the support of all the pockets venues and production partners for their continuous involvement and contribution to the success of this event that is celebrated worldwide.

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from left: MOTHERBASSS’ Macky Brillantes & DJ Nix Damn P at the A Venue stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Pinays and French women have a ball at the Plaza Maestranza Intramuros stage. Fete Dela Musique 2014 had 200 acts in more than 20 different locations last June 21, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Eiga Sai’s Bittersweet REUNION

June 30, 2014, 7:05 am

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Aiba (Toshiyuki Nishida) comforts family members by being kind to the deceased. Watch REUNION and many other Japanese films for free at Eiga Sai fest running from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall.

Written by

Jude Bautista

“Before the earthquake the hardest part about this job was seeing old people die alone. Now a mother can’t even leave a child in a coffin to go home,” the quote is from Tsuneo Aiba, a retired mortician. He is the central character in the film REUNION, which is one of many that, can be seen for free at the Eiga Sai film festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall.

Life was idyllic in the city of Kawaishi before the disaster. Watch REUNION and many other Japanese films for free at Eiga Sai fest running from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall.

Eiga Sai will run from July 3-13 at Shang Cineplex for Metro Manila and will move on to other cities. In Davao Eiga Sai will screen in Abreeza Mall from July 25-27 and FDCP Cinematheque, July 29 to August 3. It will then go to Cebu City Ayala Center from August 6-10.

from right: Shang Rila Plaza Mktg Officer Mimi Tecson, Shang Rila Plaza Mktg. Div. Head Marline Dualan, Japan Foundation Asst. Dir Yukie Mitomi Buensalido PR officer Bianca Arcega, Shang Mktg Officer Nicole Villamor and Japan Foundation Proj Coordinator Roland Samson. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will run from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

Rescue operations for people were trapped in a tunnel the day after the tsunami struck. Watch REUNION and many other Japanese films for free at Eiga Sai fest running from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall.

Rescue operations for people who were trapped in a tunnel the day after the tsunami struck. Watch REUNION and many other Japanese films for free at Eiga Sai fest running from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall.

The Tohoku earthquake and tsunami that occurred in March 11, 2011 in Japan is still fresh in people’s minds around the world. The tsunami was even more devastating than the earthquake. But what dominated the headlines then were the heavily damaged Fukushima Nuclear Power Plants. This is because of the still impending danger that it presented from the meltdown. Two years on residents near the power plant are still unable to return to their homes.

Rescue operations for people were trapped in a tunnel the day after the tsunami struck. Watch REUNION and many other Japanese films for free at Eiga Sai fest running from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall.

The world didn’t seem to get the news or the human side of the tragedy, especially in other areas. REUNION focuses on the City of Kawaishi, Iwate Prefecture one of the most devastated cities and how they dealt with the disaster. The film is based on a book by Kota Ishii entitled “Itai Shinsai, Tsunami no Hate ni ” (The Bodies at the End of the Earthquake and Tsunami).

Families carry the remains of their loved ones to be cremated. Watch REUNION and many other Japanese films for free at Eiga Sai fest running from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall.

The film is an intimate look at how religious, cultural traditions in dealing with loss of life are essential in helping those who survived overcome their grief. This is exactly what Filipino academician and NCCA Head of the Committee on Visual Arts was referring to when he said, “We are banking on the cultural values. If we recognize our own Philippine culture, malakas e, it will strengthen us it will strengthen the resolve. We will realize who we are. When they learn who they are it will bolster their character.”

Authorities are overwhelmed by the body count. Watch REUNION and many other Japanese films for free at Eiga Sai fest running from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall.

Tañedo was talking about the LAKAS PILIPINO LAKAS TAYO project that was conducted in Yolanda hit areas in Palo, Leyte. The program was conducted to help typhoon victims rebuild their lives months after the strongest typhoon in recorded history claimed more than 10,000 lives.

Aiba (Toshiyuki Nishida) is shocked to discover how workers treat the deceased. Watch REUNION and many other Japanese films for free at Eiga Sai fest running from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall.

In REUNION the soothing and calming effect of the Shinto traditions were even more crucial immediately after the disaster. Only days after they were faced with an almost impossible task of sorting through countless bodies. At the height of the crisis, respect for the deceased is the least of their priorities. Seeing this, a retired mortician Tsuneo Aiba volunteered his services for free in order to properly prepare them.

from left: 2 time Japan Academy Award winner Toshiyuki Nishida plays Tsuneo Aiba who volunteers his services to the Mayor played by Shiro Sano. Watch REUNION and many other Japanese films for free at Eiga Sai fest running from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall.

While soldiers toss bodies into the temporary morgue and breaks legs and hands of those who have rigor mortis to fit body bags and maximize space, Aiba was horrified. He constantly speaks to each as if they’re alive. He instructs all of the soldiers to massage muscles in order to move limbs without having to break bones. He insists on cleanliness of the bodies, of the surrounding areas must be maintained. These are all necessary so that when family members find the deceased they will be better able to deal with their grief. Aiba’s efforts make a huge difference to the people who have lost their loved ones in so many ways.

Aiba (Toshiyuki Nishida) speaks to the deceased as if they’re alive and massages their muscles to move limbs and even facial muscles. Watch REUNION and many other Japanese films for free at Eiga Sai fest running from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall.

One of the most powerful scenes is when they decided to add an altar (a bowl of sand with incense) at the temporary morgue. A Shinto priest who sings a hymn for the dead is almost choked up by the number of dead and has difficulty finishing it. The families, city staff and volunteers however, all took enormous comfort in hearing it.

Cast members from left: Mirai Shida and Ryo Katsuji. Watch REUNION and many other Japanese films for free at Eiga Sai fest running from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall.

The direction and screenplay by Ryoichi Kimizuka is very straightforward the film however, is able to make its own deeper statement apart from the book. 2-time Japan Academy Award winner Toshiyuki Nishida plays the central character of Aiba. There’s a genuine concern and appreciation for their ways that Nishida is able to shine through in the character of Aiba. He’s a hero in the most unglamorous, simplest of ways. He plunges himself in the worst job because he cares for those who are deceased. Perhaps the performance of the role comes with Nishida’s age in real life who is now 66 years old. He is able to draw from real life experiences and a genuine appreciation for the way things were.

2-time Japan Academy Award winner Toshiyuki Nishida plays Tsuneo Aiba. Watch REUNION and many other Japanese films for free at Eiga Sai fest running from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall.

Japan Foundation Assistant Dir Yukie Mitomi chose this particular film because of the relevance to the Philippines especially after Ondoy and Yolanda. And she made the right choice in spite of the different language and religion the message of the REUNION is just as relevant and powerful to us here as it is in Japan. It reminds us that we can turn to our own traditions and culture in order to deal with our own loss.

Japan Foundation Asst. Dir Yukie Mitomi. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will run from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

PHILPOP adjudicators from left: Eagle Broadcasting PR consultant Wendell Garcia, Music Writer Adrian Lontoc and Eagle Broadcasting PR & Business Dev. Karen Manalo Villafuerte. The Eiga Sai Japanese Film Festival will run from July 4 to 13, 2014 at the Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall. Photo by Jude Bautista

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