The Railway Man and the Philippine Experience

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HOLA! Editor in Chief Jose Mari Ugarte. THE RAILWAY MAN can be seen in Megaworld Lifestyle Malls such as Resort’s World Manila, Eastwood Malls, and Lucky Chinatown Mall starting September 24, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Hiroyuki Sanada (Takeshi Nagase) and Colin Firth (Eric Lomax) THE RAILWAY MAN can be seen in Megaworld Lifestyle Malls such as Resort’s World Manila, Eastwood Malls, and Lucky Chinatown Mall starting September 24, 2014.

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Colin Firth (Eric Lomax). THE RAILWAY MAN can be seen in Megaworld Lifestyle Malls such as Resort’s World Manila, Eastwood Malls, and Lucky Chinatown Mall starting September 24, 2014.

PBA Courtside Reporter Rizza Diaz and long time boy friend Rex Bacud. THE RAILWAY MAN can be seen in Megaworld Lifestyle Malls such as Resort’s World Manila, Eastwood Malls, and Lucky Chinatown Mall starting September 24, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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RWM Chocolate fest will run from September 15-30, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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DOLPHY made of chocolate prepared by Marriot Chocolatier Chef Christopher Balane. RWM Chocolate fest will run from September 15-30, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Colin Firth (Eric Lomax) on Bridge in Burma. THE RAILWAY MAN can be seen in Megaworld Lifestyle Malls such as Resort’s World Manila, Eastwood Malls, and Lucky Chinatown Mall starting September 24, 2014.

Morgan Say & Janeena Chan. THE RAILWAY MAN can be seen in Megaworld Lifestyle Malls such as Resort’s World Manila, Eastwood Malls, and Lucky Chinatown Mall starting September 24, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Julie Mainit and Glaiza Lee. THE RAILWAY MAN can be seen in Megaworld Lifestyle Malls such as Resort’s World Manila, Eastwood Malls, and Lucky Chinatown Mall starting September 24, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Nicole Kidman (Pattie). THE RAILWAY MAN can be seen in Megaworld Lifestyle Malls such as Resort’s World Manila, Eastwood Malls, and Lucky Chinatown Mall starting September 24, 2014.

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Nanding Josef (Willy) and Gina Pareño (Linda). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

I along with Ibarra Mateo and a few other writers had the unique and privileged opportunity to watch Tanghalang Pilipino’s PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) with two casts, one the production calls Junior and the other Senior. It runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater.

from left: Costume Designer James Reyes, Marco Viaña (Biff), Racquel Pareño (Linda), Jonathan Tadioan (Willy) and Bong Cabrera (Charley), Director Chris Millado and Set Designer Leo Abaya. PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Thank you to Cherry Bong Edralin and the hardworking TP family for allowing writers and reviewers to bear witness to the talent of seasoned actors. Thank you for the audience who had to endure my incessant clicking in photographing during the dramatic dialogue and scenes. But the sacrifice was necessary to share their work to an even greater audience. Other play dates do not have an open camera policy, which prevents audience members from shooting pictures or using their cellphones, smart phones and tablets that may distract performers on stage.

Writer William Reyes shoots with tablet live, which was only allowed during the opening. The ‘open camera’ policy was only for that play date. Audiences, friends, fans can shoot selfies with the cast after the show. PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

foreground from left: Yul Servo (Biff), Nanding Josef (Willy), Gina Pareño (Linda) and Ricardo Magno (Happy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

The irony is that both casts are actually quite experienced in theater with at least dozens of plays and musicals under their belt even if ‘Junior’ is chronologically younger. We were able to compare performances especially on the lead roles. The seniors include Nanding Josef (Willy Loman), Gina Pareño (Linda), Yul Servo (Biff), Dido Dela Paz (Charley), Ding Navasero (Ben), Ricardo Magno has almost equal stage time than leads for both casts as (Happy).

Gina Pareño (Linda). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right: Yul Servo (Biff), Nanding Josef (Willy), Gina Pareño (Linda) & Ricardo Magno (Happy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

The ‘junior’ cast is: Jonathan Tadioan (Willy Loman), Racquel Pareño (Linda), Marco Viaña (Biff), Bong Cabrera (Charley), McDonnel Bolaños (Ben). The other roles include JV Ibesate (Howard), Aldo Vencilao (Howard), Doray Dayao (Ang Babae), Dan Jarden de Guzman (Stanley), Regina De Vera (Ms. Forsythe), Lhorvie Nuevo (Letta) and Antonette Go (Jenny).

Jonathan Tadioan (Willy) & Racquel Pareño (Linda). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Arthur Miller’s DEATH OF A SALESMAN is one of the most translated and performed plays written from the last century. The story of broken dreams, growing old, pain and perceived betrayal within your family is universal. As human beings we’ve experienced all of this in one form or another.

from right: Marco Viaña (Biff), Jonathan Tadioan (Willy), Ricardo Magno (Happy) & Racquel Pareño (Linda). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Standing from left: Marco Viaña (Biff), Director Chris Millado, Regina De Vera (Ms Forsythe), Bong Cabrera (Charley), Racquel Pareño (Linda), Doray Dayao (Ang Babae), Aldo Vencilao (Howard), Ricardo Magno (Happy), JV Ibesamis (Bernard), Sound designer TJ Ramos, Dan De Guzman (Stanley) foreground from left: Jonathan Tadioan ( Willy) and Lighting Designer Katsch Catoy. PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Directed by CCP’s Vice President and Artistic Director Chris Millado, Pahimakas sa Isang Ahente also boasts of an impressive Artistic Team, which includes Katsch Catoy for the lighting design, Leo Abaya for the set design, and James Reyes, for the costumes. National Artist for Theater and Literature Rolando Tinio translated the classic American drama in Filipino. Pahimakas sa Isang Ahente runs on the CCP Tanghalang Huseng Batute (Studio Theater), from September 26 until October 19, 2014, Thursday to Sundays, with 3:00PM (Matinee) and 8:00PM (Gala) shows.

from right: Queen of Visayan Movies Gloria Sevilla, Actress/Producer Suzette Ranillo and Lighting Designer Katsch Katoy. PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right: Marco Viaña (Biff), Regina de Vera (Ms Forsythe) and Ricardo Magno (Happy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

The translation of the late National Artist for Literature and Theater Rolando Tinio to Filipino was able to fully capture all the emotion and sense of loss that Arthur Miller wrote in the original. The material is perfect means to showcase the skill and artistry of actors.

Jonathan Tadioan (Willy) bullies Marco Viaña (Biff). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

In the lead role there is a very stark contrast in approaches. Jonathan Tadioan as Willy Loman is more of a bully, an imposing presence. His physicality allows him to do this with his heft, his beard. He’s a bully to his loving wife Linda, even to his children. One gets scared when he booms on stage screaming lines.

Jonathan Tadioan (Willy) & Doray Dayao (Ang Babae). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Tadioan is Tanghalang Pilipino’s best-kept secret, morphing into roles seemingly at will. I’ve seen him wearing a diaper, baby’s overalls and skin tights showing the family jewels as part of a comedy duo in STAGESHOW by Mario O’Hara or a mythical monster in IBALONG by Rody Vera. There’s no role that Tadioan is not able to play.

from left: Aldo Vencilao (Howard), Regina De Vera (Ms Forsythe), Doray Dayao (Ang Babae) & JV Ibesate (Bernard). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Philip Seymour Hoffman was 44 when he played the 63 year-old Willy Loman in the 2012 Broadway revival. Lee J. Cob, (“the most heralded of all Willy Lomans”) was six years younger than Dustin Hoffman when he originated the role in 1949 at 38 years old. Jonathan Tadioan plays the role at 29 years old. Fernando Josef age-appropriately plays the role at 66.

Nanding Josef (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Nanding Josef, on the other hand is the prototypical Willy Loman. He is in the twilight of his career, trying to survive in a vicious, dog eats dog world. The frailty of the character is what comes through, which is sometimes even more difficult to portray.

from right: Gina Pareño (Linda), Nanding Josef (Willy) and Yul Servo (Biff). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

The same contrast can be seen in the role of Linda. Mother and daughter actresses Gina & Racquel Pareño were cast for the same role. Gina by the nature of her voice, her elocution, what naturally shines through is the motherly, nurturing side. 2013 Gawad Buhay “Best Featured Actress” winner Racquel is better for the flashback scenes when they recall they’re younger years. This is the time when the kids were growing up. Willy and Linda were very much in love.

Racquel Pareño (Linda) & Jonathan Tadioan (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Marco Viaña (Biff) and Ricardo Magno (Happy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Marco Viaña is another one of those notable names in the ACTOR’S COMPANY, considered as artists in residence of TP. His contribution to the role of Biff is one of energy and youth. Yul Servo’s version however is more tempered, almost cowed. Servo’s acting is subtle, unnoticeable but extremely effective. The most moving scene where real tears are shed by Biff, one hardly notices the singular tear that drops from his face. It’s the kind of crying that is very male where he tries to hide it even if he can’t. Soon audience members behind me, beside me, rows away start sniffling and crying themselves. They are unable to stop the tears, the emotions that they witness and feel from Servo’s subtle performance.

Yul Servo (Biff) & Gina Pareño (Linda). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right: Regina De Vera (Ms Forsythe) shows her assets to Dan De Guzman (Stanley) and Ricardo Magno (Happy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Every single one of the ACTOR’S COMPANY had something brilliant to contribute. Regina De Vera is the vampy Ms Forsythe and ditsy Lhorvie Nuevo (Letta) to the fake laughter of the mistress played by Doray Dayao. Dido Dela Paz and Bong Cabrera are both in the role of Charley. Their performances bring to life uniquely truthful play about the human experience.

from left: Lhorvie Nuevo (Letta) and Regina de Vera (Ms Forsythe). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Dido Dela Paz (Charley) & Nanding Josef (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Tickets are priced at Php800.00 and Php600.00. Discount is available for students, senior citizens, government employees, military employees and PWDs. (Please present valid ID). Tickets are available at Ticketworld outlets (891-9999), CCP Box Office (832-3704). For more details, call Tanghalang Pilipino (832-1125, local 1620-1621 or 0971-750-0107).

from left: Gina Pareño (Linda), Yul Servo (Biff), Nanding Josef (Willy) and Regina De Vera (Ms Forsythe). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Ricardo Magno (Happy), McDonnel Bolaños (Ben), JV Ibesamis (Bernard), Lhorvie Nuevo (Letta), Dan De Guzman (Stanley) and Antonette Go (Jenny). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Director: Chris Millado

Lighting Designer: Katsch Katoy

Set Designer: Leo Abaya

Costume Designer: James Reyes

Sound Designer: TJ Ramos

Dramaturg: Giselle Garcia

from left: Bong Cabrera (Charley) & Jonathan Tadioan (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

PERFORMANCE DATES:

26 September / 8PM

27 September / 3PM and 8PM

28 September / 3PM

3 October / 8PM

4 October / 3PM and 8PM

5 October / 3 PM

from left: Jonathan Tadioan (Willy), Marco Viaña (Biff), Ricardo Magno (Happy) & Racquel Pareño (Linda). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

PERFORMANCE DATES:

10 October / 8PM

11 October / 3PM and 8PM

12 October / 3PM

17 October / 8PM

18 October / 3PM and 8PM

19 October / 3PM

from left: Dido Dela Paz (Charley) Yul Servo (Biff), Nanding Josef (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Nanding Josef (Willy) and Aldo Vencilao (Howard). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

CAST

Fernando “Nanding” Josef (Willy Loman)

Jonathan Tadioan (Willy Loman)

Ms. Gina Pareño (Linda Loman)

Racquel Pareño(Linda Loman)

Yul Servo (Biff)

Marco Viaña (Biff)

Ricardo Magno (Happy)

Ricardo Magno (Happy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

foreground from left: Marco Viaña (Biff), Jonathan Tadioan (Willy), Racquel Pareño (Linda) & RicardoMagno (Happy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Ding Navasero (Ben). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

CAST

Ding Navasero (Ben)

Mcdonell Bolaños (Ben)

Dido dela Paz (Charley)

Bong Cabrera (Charley)

JV Ibesate (Bernard)

Doray Dayao (Ang Babae)

Aldo Vencilao (Howard Wagner)

Dan Jarden de Guzman (Stanley)

Regina De Vera (Miss Forsythe)

Llorvie Nuevo (Letta)

Antonette Go (Jenny)

Bottom from right: Gina Pareño (Linda), Nanding Josef (Willy), Ding Navasero (Ben), top right: Yul Servo (Biff) & Ricardo Magno (Happy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

VENUE:

Tanghalang Huseng Batute (Studio Theater)

Cultural Center of the Philippines

from left: Celeste Legaspi Congratulates Gina Pareño (Linda). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Jonathan Tadioan (Willy) & Aldo Vencilao (Howard). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

TICKETS:

8:00 PM: Php800;

3:00 PM: Php800 / Php600

Discounted tickets require valid IDs. Applicable to students, senior citizens,

Government and Military Employees, and Persons with Disability (PWD).

Racquel Pareño (Linda) is a loving wife to Jonathan Tadioan (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: JV Ibesate (Bernard) & Antonette Go (Jenny). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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McDonnel Bolaños (Ben). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: JV Ibesate (Bernard), Ricardo Magno Happy, Jonathan Tadioan (Willy) and Marco Viaña (Biff). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Dido Dela Paz (Charley) & Actress/Producer Suzette Ranillo. PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Jonathan Tadioan (Willy) cuts down his wife Racquel Pareño (Linda) as sons from right– Marco Viaña (Biff) & Ricardo Magno (Happy) look on. PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Gina Pareño (Linda), Yul Servo (Biff) and Nanding Josef (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Jonathan Tadioan (Willy) bullies wife Racquel Pareño (Linda). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Gina Pareño (Linda) & Nanding Josef (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Jonathan Tadioan (Willy), Racquel Pareño (Linda), McDonnel Bolaños (Ben) & Ricardo Magno (Happy) top- Marco Viaña (Biff). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right: Jonathan Tadioan (Willy) and Marco Viaña (Biff). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: McDonnel Bolaños (Ben)& Jonathan Tadioan (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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(center) Jonathan Tadioan (Willy) takes his bow. PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Regina de Vera (Ms Forsythe) and Ricardo Magno (Happy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Ricardo Magno (Happy), Jonathan Tadioan (Willy) and Marco Viaña (Biff). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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(top) McDonnel Bolaños (Ben) haunts the memory of Jonathan Tadioan (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Yul Servo (Biff). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

“Dalawampu, tatlumpung trabahao ang pinasukan ko, shipping clerk, trabahador kung anu ano. 34 anyos nako, di ako mapalagay. Ayoko mag aksaya ng panahon. Tuwing nandito ako wala akong ginawa kung di magaksaya ng panahon.” There’s sadness in Biff Loman’s (Yul Servo) words. Even if he tries so hard to hide it or admit them to himself, he’s lost not able to make his life work.

PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE runs on the CCP Tanghalang Huseng Batute (Studio Theater), from September 26 until October 19, 2014, Thursday to Sundays, with 3:00PM (Matinee) and 8:00PM (Gala) shows.

foreground from left: Lhorvie Nuevo (Letta), Dan De Guzman (Stanley) and Antonette Go (Jenny). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Servo is also in the film DEMENTIA with Nora Aunor as her son in law, his wife played by Bing Loyzaga. This is the fourth time that he has worked with Superstar Nora Aunor. They were together in NAGLALAYAG (2004) by Maryo J. Delos Reyes, TV5’s Untold Story-THIRD Eye episode, and now DEMENTIA (2014) by Perci Intalan and WHISTLEBLOWER by Adolf Alix. In the previous times Yul worked with Aunor he was a little bit intimidated. This time he saw the funny side of Ate Guy. “Nakita ko pagka kalog niya, biruan nila ni Bing. Siya pa lumalapit sa tao at ok magpa picture.”

from left: Gina Pareño (Linda), Ricardo Magno (Happy) and Yul Servo (Biff). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Arthur Miller wrote the brilliant, much heralded play DEATH OF A SALESMAN in 1949. But it was National Artist for Literature Rolando Tinio who translated it to Filipino capturing the subtleties, the realities that we feel as a son, mother, father, and family member. Tinio supplied the fuel for which the actors on stage burns. My own vocabulary was enriched with words in the dialogue like tagsibol (spring) and bikas (stance).

from left: Gina Pareño (Linda), Ricardo Magno (Happy), Yul Servo (Biff) & Nanding Josef (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Throughout PAHIMAKAS NG AHENTE, Yul Servo played Biff Loman on an even keel. Whatever pain, frustrations that were there was just beneath the surface. Until that moment where it’s revealed how and why he had this emotional burden that he has carried for such a long time in his life.

from left: Yul Servo (Biff) and Nanding Josef (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

One might even say that he did play the scene still on an even keel. He shed a tear as a man does trying not to show it. Trying to hide the sobbing, that he couldn’t stop. It was all too powerful and real. How could you show vulnerability on stage at the same time hiding it? The effect on a live audience is immediate people to my left, right rows away, even I myself was moved to tears by his performance.

When he was cast for the role, there was no hesitation at all. This was the third time that he has worked with director Chris Millado: first was MASS written by F Sionil Jose and ISANG ARAW KARNABAL. In spite of his busy schedule between TV, film and stage work he is also a Councilor for Manila’s 3^rd District.

from left: Regina De Vera (Ms Forsythe), Nanding Josef (Willy), Yul Servo (Biff), Gina Pareño (Linda) & Director Chris Millado. PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Ricardo Magno (Happy) and Yul Servo (Biff). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Martin and Zenaida Nieto, Gina Pareño (Linda) & Yul Servo (Biff). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Both his parents Martin and Zenaida Nieto were there to watch him on stage for the opening night. When asked later on how he was able to bring such real emotion on stage, he recalls his own father, his own relationship even being a father himself. “Idol ko tatay ko. Gusto ko siyang gayahin. Iisipin ko siya yon.” Yul has that genuine love for his own father and visualizes him in that painful and traumatic situation. Although his family life is not as traumatic or tragic as that of Biff’s, the emotions are real and touching that it makes one easy to cry.

Director: Chris Millado

Lighting Designer: Katsch Katoy

Set Designer: Leo Abaya

Costume Designer: James Reyes

Sound Designer: TJ Ramos

Dramaturg: Giselle Garcia

from right: Ricardo Magno (Happy), Gina Pareño (Linda), Nanding Josef (Willy), Yul Servo (Biff), Doray and Regina De Vera (Ms Forsythe). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Ricardo Magno (Happy), JV Ibesate (Bernard), Nanding Josef (Willy)
and Yul Servo (Biff). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Sheenly Gener shoots a selfie with lead cast and friends. PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

PERFORMANCE DATES:

26 September / 8PM

27 September / 3PM and 8PM

28 September / 3PM

3 October / 8PM

4 October / 3PM and 8PM

5 October / 3 PM

from left: Ricardo Magno (Happy), Yul Servo (Biff) and Nanding Josef (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

PERFORMANCE DATES:

10 October / 8PM

11 October / 3PM and 8PM

12 October / 3PM

17 October / 8PM

18 October / 3PM and 8PM

19 October / 3PM

from left: Regina De Vera (Ms Forsythe), Gina Pareño (Linda), Yul Servo (Biff), Dido Dela Paz (Charley) and Ricardo Magno (Happy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

CAST

Fernando “Nanding” Josef (Willy Loman)

Jonathan Tadioan (Willy Loman)

Ms. Gina Pareño (Linda Loman)

Racquel Pareño (Linda Loman)

Yul Servo (Biff)

Marco Viaña (Biff)

Ricardo Magno (Happy)

Ding Navasero (Ben)

Mcdonell Bolaños (Ben)

Dido Dela Paz (Charley), Nanding Josef (Willy) and Ding Navasero (Ben). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right: JV Ibesate (Bernard) and Nanding Josef (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

CAST

Dido dela Paz (Charley)

Bong Cabrera (Charley)

JV Ibesate (Bernard)

Doray Dayao (Ang Babae)

Aldo Vencilao (Howard Wagner)

Dan Jarden de Guzman (Stanley)

Regina De Vera (Miss Forsythe)

Lhorvie Nuevo (Letta)

Antonette Go (Jenny)

from left: Sheenly Gener, Antonette Go (Jenny) and Lhorvie Nuevo (Letta). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

VENUE:

Tanghalang Huseng Batute (Studio Theater)

Cultural Center of the Philippines

TICKETS:

8:00 PM: Php800;

3:00 PM: Php800 / Php600

Discounted tickets require valid IDs. Applicable to students, senior citizens,

Government and Military Employees, and Persons with Disability (PWD).

from left: Ding Navasero (Ben), Nanding Josef (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Yul Servo (Biff), Ricardo Magno (Happy) and Gina Pareño (Linda). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Yul Servo (Biff), Gina Pareño (Linda) and Ricardo Magno (Happy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Top: Yul Servo (Biff) bottom left: Ding Navasero (Ben) and Nanding Josef (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Yul Servo (Biff) takes his bow behind him is Ricardo Magno (Happy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Ding Navasero (Ben) dares Yul Servo (Biff). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Dido Dela Paz (Charley), Yul Servo (Biff) and Nanding Josef (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Top—Ding Navasero (Ben) haunts the memory of Nanding Josef (Willy). PAHIMAKAS SA ISANG AHENTE (DEATH OF A SALESMAN) of Tanghalang Pilipino runs from September 26 to October 19, 2014 at the Tanghalang Huseng Batute Theater, CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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The lovely Natalia De Molina won Goya Best New Actress as Belen. VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

Written by

Jude Bautista

“On the white path the trunks of frustrate trees show black, on the distant mountains there is gold and blood. The sun dies . . . What do you seek, poet, in the sunset?” Antonio (Javier Camara) was quoting the poetry of Antonio Machado to Belen (Natalia De Molina). Antonio is an elementary school teacher; Belen is a young woman trying to escape her old life, Juanjo (Francesc Colomer) also had to runaway from home. The three of them form an unlikely friendship on their way to a remote town in Andalucia, Spain called Almeria.

Official Spanish entry to the Oscars VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas. Filmgoers who vote for the Audience Choice award can get the chance to win a round trip ticket to Spain courtesy of Qatar Airways.

Javier Camara won a Goya Best Actor nod for his portrayal of Antonio. VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

The real inspiration for Antonio, played by actor Javier Camara, is THE BEATLES. By 1966 he was one of many people obsessed with what is considered to be the ‘GREATEST rock band of all time’. He teaches English to grade-schoolers by reading lyrics of HELP. The story was loosely based on the experiences of real life teacher Juan Carrion Gañan. It is also Spain’s official entry for the Oscar ceremonies held on 2015.

3rd and 2nd from right H.E. Amb Luis A. Calvo Castaño and Mdme Maria José Carrasco from left: FDCP Chairman Briccio Santos, David Trueba, Art Acuña and Inst Cervantes Dir. Dr. Carlos Madrid. The PELICULA Spanish film festival will run from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

In 1966 John Lennon starred in a WWII film shot in Almeria, Spain called HOW I WON THE WAR. VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

The title of the film is taken from the first line of STRAWBERRY FIELDS FOREVER that was actually written by John Lennon during his stay in Almeria. Although he did write the song there, which had their own strawberry farms/fields, the song was inspired by an actual place behind Lennon’s aunt’s house in Liverpool called Strawberry Fields. Perhaps the strawberry fields in Almeria reminded him of that more innocent and carefree time in his life, hence the song. Lennon was in Andalucia, Spain to act in a film called HOW I WON THE WAR. The obsessed schoolteacher in Antonio had to try and interview the legendary Beatle.

from left: Natalia De Molina (Belen) Francesc Colomer (Juanjo), Director David Trueba and Javier Camara (Antonio). VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

On his way, he gives a car ride to Belen and Juanjo. The young, dark haired Natalia De Molina plays Belen. The role has won her a GOYA and CINEMA WRITERS CIRCLE AWARDS Best New Actress. To us Pinoys she’s very similar to Jasmine Curtis Smith. She has a sweet face that melts the toughest male hearts. She is trying to escape a failed romance, having a need to go away even to the remote town of Almeria. There’s a palpable sexual tension the first time she meets Antonio, even Juanjo. Both of them are too kind at heart to take advantage of this young lady on the run. The film does take an erotic turn when Belen has too much to drink and decides to take matters in her own hands, literally.

The HOT Natalia De Molina won Goya Best New Actress as Belen. VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

Spain in 1966 was under the authoritarian Francisco Franco Regime, which had been in power for 26 years by then. Franco himself described his government as totalitarian. His rightwing, conservative thinking pervaded the whole country and culture. This made the older, conservative generation at odds with the youth, free thinkers and psychedelic hippie counter culture.

Dictator Francisco Franco’s name on side of a hill- conservatism pervaded Spanish Culture during his reign. VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

Director David Trueba explained, “Social regimes are always transposed to family and other relationships. In the end the regime you’re living justifies the rapport between people. So we used to live in a repressive country the relationship in the family, the couple in the school it’s going to be repressive. If you live in a different environment it’s going to be a different thing. My idea was society was fighting against the regime even before the politics.”

Goya Best Director David Trueba. VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

from left: Francesc Colomer (Juanjo), Javier Camara (Antonio) and Natalia De Molina (Belen). VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

That’s what happened to each of the 3 main characters in their own way. Antonio imbibes the BEATLES values of peace and love to his students. His insistence on education and devotion to knowledge is often at odds with the many poor people just trying to survive. Juanjo played by Francesc Colomer is in conflict with his domineering and yes conservative father (Jorge Sanz) who is also a cop. Belen is battling conservatism within her own family and represents the struggle of women’s rights that we take for granted today.

cast from left: Jorge Sanz (Padre), Francesc Colomer (Juanjo), Javier Camara (Antonio), Natalia De Molina (Belen) and Ramon Fontserè (Ramon). VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

This role has earned Javier Camara a GOYA Best Actor award. He is also one of the more popular actors in Spain. He is likewise the lead in LA VIDA INESPERADA (THE UNEXPECTED LIFE) also part of the Pelicula film fest. ‘LA VIDA… is more of a comedy set in New York about an off, off, off Broadway performer welcoming his cousin from Spain for an extended stay. Hardly leading man material in terms of looks with his baldhead and potbelly, he easily charms audiences with his wit and humor. For Filipino fans, Camara has a resemblance with long time theater stalwart Miguel Faustmann (without hair). Both Miguel and Jasmine Curtis-Smith are currently starring in BONIFACIO ANG UNANG PANGULO opposite Robin Padilla in this year’s MMFF.

Javier Camara (Antonio) climbs his car to get a glimpse of John Lennon. VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

Desert-like landscape on the way to Almeria. VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

Almeria is on the southernmost coast of Spain. Cinematographer Daniel Villar proves he is a visual poet who captured the breath taking and changing landscapes. Getting there is almost dry, desert-like. The constant sunshine, tumbleweeds, reminds one of a Spanish colony-Mexico, hence the similarities in architecture and language. The stark blue of the Mediterranean soothes their senses after a long car trip through dry hilly country. Down the coast are the cities of Malaga and Marbella and further south is the Strait of Gibraltar. Watching a film takes you there, who knows you may actually win a flight to Madre España as well?

from left: FDCP Chairman Briccio Santos, David Trueba, Inst Cervantes Dir. Dr. Carlos Madrid and FDCP Exec Dir Teddy Granados. The PELICULA Spanish film festival will run from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

Presented by Instituto Cervantes, the Embassy of Spain, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), Greenbelt and Ayala Cinemas, PELÍCULA is made possible by Emperador Distillers, Vibal Foundation, Qatar Airways, in collaboration with the Embassy of Mexico, Instituto Etxepare, Ayala Museum, Alba’s Restaurante Español, New World Hotel and Espa-Fil.

Emperador DE LUXE was made from vineyards in Spain. It is also the official drink of the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

For the schedule, line-up of films and further information on the Festival please visit the official website of Instituto Cervantes (www.manila.cervantes.es) or log on to its Facebook page: www.facebook.com/InstitutoCervantesManila

Francesc Colomer (Juanjo) and Natalia De Molina (Belen). VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

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Clarisse Lukban and Cinema One Head Ronald Arguelles. The PELICULA Spanish film festival will run from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

Javier Camara (Antonio) finally gets to the set of HOW I WON THE WAR. VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

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The lovely Natalia De Molina won Goya Best New Actress as Belen. VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

Francesc Colomer (Juanjo) and family. VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

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Javier Camara (Antonio) and passengers push his car. VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

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from left: Director David Trueba describes shot to Javier Camara (Antonio). VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

The set of VIVIR ES FACIL… recreating the set of HOW I WON THE WAR. VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

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from left: Ramon Fontserè (Ramon) & Javier Camara (Antonio). VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

from left: Claire Agbayani, Adrian Lontoc, Ronnie Lazaro and FDCP Media officer Quintin Cu Unjieng. The PELICULA Spanish film festival will run from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Natalia De Molina (Belen), Javier Camara (Antonio) and Francesc Colomer (Juanjo). VIVIR ES FACIL CON LOS OJOS CERRADOS (LIVING IS EASY WITH EYES CLOSED) is one of many films in the PELICULA Spanish film festival running from October 9-19, 2014 at the Greenbelt Cinemas.

from left: Peque Gallaga, Lore Reyes–TYANAK, FDCP Exec. Dir. Teddy Granados, Romy Suzara (SIGAW SA HATINGGABI), Gil Portes (HUKLUBAN) and Edgardo Boy Vinarao (BACAO). Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.4, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

The concept seems to be at odds, making films that more of our kababayan (countrymen), more Filipinos will watch. And giving the reigns to the filmmakers, directors rather than profit-oriented producers, outfits, even networks. But this is exactly what the HORROR PLUS Film fest attempts to do. It will run from October 29-November 4, 2014 in all SM Malls and Walter Mart Cinemas. Galas of the movies will have a free entrance from October 20 to 23, in SM North Edsa & Megamall where cast members like Judy Ann Santos, Solenn Heussaff, Michelle Madrigal will make personal appearances. Please check gala schedules here: official FDCP site.

from left: Interaksyon Ent Editor and HUKULUBAN screenwriter Eric Ramos, Krista Miller (Mira), Kiko Matos (Kandro), Minda Flores (Hukluban), director Gil Portes. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.4, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

The films participating in the festival include T’YANAK by co-directors Peque Gallaga and Lore Reyes, HUKLUBAN by director Gil M. Portes, BACAO by director Edgardo “Boy” Vinarao, and SIGAW SA HATINGGABI by director Romy V. Suzara. The film fest is composed of four entries so that the films may have more screening dates.

BACAO cast from left: Alvin Anson, Marife Necesito, Edgardo Boy Vinarao, Michelle Madrigal. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.4, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

During a press conference outspoken director Peque Gallaga discussed the efforts of the FDCP (Film Development Council of the Philippines) and why they participated in it, “We’re very grateful to FDCP for doing these things. Sa totoo lang the budget is really, really, really low. Pero Lore and I feel, I think the same goes for Romy for Boy and Gil. It’s a pleasure to work for zero than people who tell you what to do. FDCP actually believes in artistic freedom. And I think what’s happening is FDCP has already produced 51 Pinoy indie films believe it or not.”

TYANAK director Peque Gallaga with actress Mailes Kanapi. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.4, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

Gallaga believes the HORROR PLUS Film fest is a way of attracting audiences to the work of Pinoy directors without having the pressure of pleasing producers who don’t necessarily share the same vision, “Ang nangyayari with the Horror Film Festival, the FDCP has recognized that we have to go back to the middle ground. Dapat we should be making films, this is not a judgment of indie films I am an indie filmmaker, but we have to start making films for the Filipino people. This is a burgis person talking I am a Regal baby. It’s time that people go back to watching our films, not only for festivals. I think the Horror film festival is a good attempt to go back to the middle ground.”

SIGAW SA HATING GABI cast from left: China Roces, Vangie Labalan & Lance Raymundo. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.4, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

The middle ground according to him is being able to give directors and writers greater creative control, “What’s happening now and I’m not insulting anybody. The big industry is getting people, getting really good, good, good artists in the form of directors. But its like you’re hiring sculptors to do carpentry work. It’s time to return movies to the artists. (Applause) Thank you for the few who agree with me. Still I think the combination of indie and mainstream is going to be wonderful for Filipino movies to go back to the Golden age.”

Krista Miller (Mira) & Kiko Matos (Pepito) of HUKLUBAN by Gil Portes written by Eric Ramos. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.4, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Gil Portes of HUKLUBAN, Adrian Cabido, Lore Reyes & Peque Gallaga of TYANAK. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.4, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

Gallaga’s horror flick TYANAK with Janice De Belen defined what the monster truly is. He went on to explain that it wasn’t clearly defined or identified prior to that in film, “Ang nangyari sa TYANAK it’s a reboot. Reboot means we’re doing the original story but it’s been 30 years. Ang nangyari doon we were Regal babies we were with mother. And one of my favorite directors si Charing Carlos, I don’t know which one he did na may tyanak. The tyanak were the Gutierrez twins when they were 4 years old. Hindi yon tyanak those were Santa’s Elves. Sabi ko Mother hindi yan tyanak. When I worked with Richard Gutierrez way after I told him the same thing. Hindi yan tyanak. We’ll make a movie for you, Mother didn’t know what the tyanak was. When we did TYANAK the movie we went back to Philippine folklore.”

SIGAW SA HATING GABI cast mates Regine Angeles and Vangie Labalan. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.4, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

Mother Liliy Monteverde of Regal had a very specific scene that she wanted Gallaga to do. He relates, “All that Mother asked us to do that’s why I respect Mother a lot. Basta dapat si Lotlot is running with the baby na may ulan. She would fall in the putik. She would look at the baby and say ‘Why God?’ And tama si Mother people loved that.”

SIGAW SA HATING GABI cast from left: China Roces, Regine Angeles, Vangie Labalan, Director Romy Suzara, Lance Raymundo, Alvin Anson and Hero Bautista. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.4, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

The invitation to make a horror film came from FDCP chairman Briccio Santos. “When we did the first TYANAK we wanted to show what a tyanak was. Now everybody knows what a tyanak is. Ang ginawa namin this time, we maintained the Janice and Lotlot characters. But we went deeper into what a tyanak does. Briccio said do you want to make a horror film? Sabi namin we want to do TYANAK again. Why? Because it’s the original Filipino monster. Mananaggal the Indoensians have that, the Thais have the manananggal. In all of the universe only the Philippines has the tyanak. The tyanak is a monster that hides behind compassion, it hides behind pity. In other words yung power ng tyanak you cannot kill him.”

TYANAK cast from left: Adrian Cabrido, Lore Reyes, Peque Gallaga and Mailes Kanapi. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.4, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

Gala Pemiere Schedules

Bacao – October 20 (Monday) / SM Megamall / Cinema 7 / 7:00pm

Hukluban – October 21 (Tuesday) / SM North Edsa / Cinema 1 / 7:00pm

T’yanak – October 22 (Wednesday) / SM Megamall / Cinema 7 / 7:00pm

Sigaw sa Hatinggabi – October 23 (Thursday) / SM North Edsa / Cinema 1 / 7:00pm

from left: BACAO director Edgardo Boy Vinarao and actor Alvin Anson (Leloy). Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.4, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Gil Portes (HUKLUBAN), Mailes Kanapi (TYANAK) and Interaskyon Ent Editor Eric Ramos. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.4, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

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SIGAW SA HATING GABI cast from left: China Roces, Vangie Labalan , Lance Raymundo & Romy Suzara. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.4, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Alvin Anson(SIGAW SA HATINGGABI/BACAO), Shandi Bacolod and Lance Raymundo (SIGAW SA HATINGGABI). Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.4, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Mailes Kanapi (TYANAK) and Lance Raymundo (SIGAW SA HATING GABI). Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.4, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: PLDT Chairman and SBP Pres. Manny V Pangilinan and MPTC Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer Christopher Lizo. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

Last October 21, 2014, all I could do was text him a greeting when I remembered it was his birthday. Christopher Daniel C. Lizo is my cousin who is now Metro Pacific Tollways Corp (MPTC) Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. He texted back immediately and invited me to the debut of the NLEX Road Warriors in the PBA. It was their very first game in the league, in the storied SMART Araneta Coliseum.

Tip off from right: NLEX Road Warriors (Asi Taulava) and Global Port Batang Pier (Yancy De Ocampo). Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

He told me he was so excited with the efforts of MPTC Pres. & CEO Ramoncito Fernandez, in building the team. The NLEX Road Warriors was finally making the transition to the majors after so much success in the Developmental league. PLDT Chairman and Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) president Manny V. Pangilinan will also personally make an appearance to watch the debut.

from right: PLDT Chairman and SBP Pres. Manny V Pangilinan and MPTC Pres. & CEO Ramoncito Fernandez. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right: PLDT Chairman and SBP Pres. Manny V Pangilinan and MPTC Pres. & CEO Ramoncito Fernandez and MNTC Pres & CEO Rod Franco. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

MVP has been the singular moving force developing the SMART Gilas National team, and fulfilling the hopes of a whole nation for the sport of basketball. ALL of them who work for him have had to step up in showing their support for the game we love. CEOs and top level Execs are expected to do double duty as Team Presidents/ Operation Managers for their respective PBA squads. It’s an honor, sacrifice and huge responsibility.

Global Port Batang Pier Stanley Pringle inbounds ball in front of NLEX coaches Adonis Tierra and Ford Arao. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

MVP has taken a personal hand in coming up with the coaching staffs of TALK’N TXT, MERALCO and NLEX. MVP met with team execs, MPTC Pres & CEO Ramoncito Fernandez and finalized the NLEX brain trust. Last July, Quinito Henson in his Phil Star column reported, “Six-peat PBA D-League champion coach Boyet Fernandez will pilot N-Lex which has acquired the Air21 franchise. Fernandez, however, will finish the NCAA season with San Beda College before moving back to the PBA where he was once Coach of the Year with Sta. Lucia Realty. His Warriors staff will consist of Adonis Tierra, Jojo Lastimosa, Sandy Arrespacochaga, Mon Celis and Ford Arao with Allan Gregorio as team consultant.”

MVP & CEOs intently watch the NLEX Road Warrior’s PBA debut. Foreground: Coach Boyet Fernandez (left) & Asst Coach Jojo Lastimosa (right). Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

VIP ROW from left: MPTC Pres. & CEO Ramoncito Fernandez, Tollways Mgt Corp. SVP for Toll Operations Bobby Bontia, PLDT Chairman and SBP Pres. Manny V Pangilinan, MNTC Pres & CEO Rod Franco and MPTC CFO/Treasurer Christopher Lizo. Foreground: Coach Boyet Fernandez (left) & Asst Coach Jojo Lastimosa (right). Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

NLEX acting head Coach Adonis Tierra was calling the shots in the huddle early in the 1st quarter. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

Paco, Manila

The PBA game seemed like a world away from our days growing up in Paco. I was the youngest of 5 boys but all of my brothers had been way older. That’s why I was closer to Chris growing up. Chris and I were born just months apart, post Crispa Toyota era. Barely off our toddler years we still took sides, he liked Crispa and I Toyota. We found a common team to cheer for when Great Taste came around with Ricardo Brown, Abe King, Arnie Tuadles, Philip Cezar, Bogs Adornado. The team had remnants from both Toyota and Crispa.

MPTC Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer Christopher Lizo. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

Right: MPTC Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer Christopher Lizo. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

Basketball was so pervasive in everything we thought and did. We’d play it EVERY free time we had. My brother Noel Bautista was an NBA, PBA, NCAA, UAAP fanatic. We’d talk about match ups and players endlessly. Much of our technical knowledge and debates came from Noel’s influence. He’s now living in Wellington, NZ with wife Hazel. His kids Nigel, Nicole and Brent are all grown up.

NLEX Road Warrior Enrico Villanueva sails in for a lay-up. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

We had a hoop installed on our garage roof. Me, Chris his brother Vincent Lizo, my brothers George, Noel, schoolmates, neighbors would play from morning until late into the night. Only George Bautista and Vincent took the game seriously trying out in college and making it to the TEAM B in DLSU. Vincent Lizo was our hope in making it to the PBA, we all had dreams at the time. He dominated in the commercial leagues: PICAA and PBL. Somehow we all lived vicariously through the success of Vince as a player, fulfilling our collective hoop dreams. Vince is now also one of the top executives in EVEREADY and still plays basketball in Alumni Leagues.

Grand slam champ and enforcer DLSU Archer Rafa Dinglasan shoots w i-phone. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

Their close friend and teammates in the DLSU squad include Perry Ronquillo, Dong Vergere who later became coaches. Perry won a PBA Championship with Shell. Dong became a coach for UST in the UAAP (who passed away in 2011). Current Archers coach Juno Sauler was also a teammate of theirs. Juno married my other cousin Agnes Apostol.

from left: PLDT Chairman and SBP Pres. Manny V Pangilinan and MPTC Pres. & CEO Ramoncito Fernandez. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

METROPACIFIC

After graduating and acing the Accounting Board exams Chris worked for one and only one company throughout his career: METROPACIFIC Corporation. Much later after that he was assigned to his current post at the MPTC. Under a shared love for the game together with MPTC Pres. Ramon Fernandez they participated in the Developmental league of the PBA. Chris managed the day-to-day operations of the team, acquiring players, coaching staff while deferring major decisions to Fernandez. Mr. Fernandez has become a mentor and father figure to Chris; he was also the Ninong in his wedding. The NLEX Road Warriors earned 6 titles in the 7 years since the league was established.

NLEX Road Warrior Jonas Villanueva sets up offense. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

Zoom back to 2014 October 21^st, Chris’ birthday was an auspicious date to have their debut in the PBA. This is the league where so many of our childhood dreams had come from. We watched countless legendary PBA heroes do battle in this very place SMART ARANETA. Among them a Senator- Sonny Jaworski, Ramon Fernandez namesake ‘The Franchise’, Atoy Co, Abet Guidaben, even to the days of Alvin Patrimonio, Benjie Paras, Allan Caidic and our special idol ‘Skywalker’ Samboy Lim. One of them Jojo Lastimosa is in the coaching staff of NLEX.

from left: PBA legend now NLEX Asst Coach Jojo Lastimosa coaches Jonas Viallanueva. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

Now the NLEX Roadwarriors was a team he helped build. Chris was making his own PBA memories, helping shape current and future PBA legends in its 40^th season. I was especially nervous for Chris because, there’s so much at stake. As thankful as I was seeing him in this position a win is necessary validation of all their efforts leading up to that point. They had to make a statement that the NLEX Road Warriors belonged with the best of best players in the country. There was tremendous pressure to win, even if it was a debut.

NLEX Road Warrior Asi Taulava on Free-throw line. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

NLEX is World Class

Before the game, Chris Lizo was able to talk about the transition of NLEX to the big league, “We won 6 out of 7 championships in the D League. Now the PBA is a different level. We want to prove to the management, to the owners that we can do it in the next level as well. What we’re trying to bring in the PBA is the same brand of team that we brought in the D League. We carry the NLEX brand name. NLEX is world class so we want to bring a competitive world-class team in the PBA.”

NLEX Road Warrior Mac Cardona going strong against Batang Pier Bonjay Buenafe. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

Theoretically, the developmental league player can go to the PBA. But all players have to go through the daft process and theirs was no exception, “Unfortunately we’re not allowed by the PBA to bring our core team. Our core team had to go to the draft. We did the next best thing which was buy an existing franchise. We bought AIR21, which has good core players including Asi Taulava, Jonas Villanueva, Rico Villanueva, Mac Cardona. We mixed them with our own draft choices. We think we have a good combination of youth and experience.”

right (in Yankees cap) Maja Salvador loves the PBA. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

Their draft choice of Matt Canuelas, who played for SMART GILAS was traded to TALK’N TXT for KG Canaleta. He believes Canaleta will help NLEX be competitive immediately. There are very specific and some say lofty goals for their debut. “We think we’re going to be competitive. Having said that we’re realistic. There are a lot of strong teams GINEBRA, TALKN’TXT, SAN MIGUEL, PUREFOODS STAR HOTSHOTS. We have an internal target. But we still think that if motivated enough, we work hard enough we can still go to the championship. Going to the finals is not beyond our reach we can still do it.”

from right: Mac Cardona, KG Canaleta and Kelly Nabong. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

PBA: The Best of the Best

With MVP’s top choice for a coach, Chris believes Boyet Fernandez is the right man to take them all the way, “He is defense oriented. Another thing working for him is he played professional basketball. He won a championship as a coach for Sta. Lucia. He gets the best out of players. Whether they’re veterans or rookies he’s able to define the role of each player. To that extent, Boyet has a lot of experience.”

From left: NLEX acting head Coach Adonis Tierra confers with Asst coach Sandy Arespacochaga. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

The challenge is huge in being able to translate their success from the D League to the PBA, “You have to look at the competitiveness. D League is a good league but the PBA is the ultimate goal of all players, all teams. You know that this is the cream of the crop, the best of the best, not only in terms of players but also in coaching staff, the support staff. So we’ve dedicated all resources we can to make sure that we’ll be competitive.”

Batang Pier Stanley Pringle explodes against John Raymundo. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

It’s been a long time coming, playing the game we loved since we were kids. We’ve all grown up; Chris has his own family now with beautiful wife Carlene, daughter Andrea and son Andrei. Not all plans have come to fruition. Hoop dreams remain for us, myself, brothers and cousins. Now we can experience it vicariously through Chris who is living the PBA dream.

MVP has light moment with CEOs during tense game. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

VIP ROW from left: Tollways Mgt Corp. SVP for Toll Operations Bobby Bontia, PLDT Chairman and SBP Pres. Manny V Pangilinan, MNTC Pres & CEO Rod Franco and MPTC CFO/Treasurer Christopher Lizo. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

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NLEX Road Warrior Eric Camson. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

NEVER THE STRANGER lead singer Ace Libre is a huge PBA fan. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

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NLEX acting head Coach Adonis Tierra was calling the shots in the huddle early in the 1st quarter with him are from left: Asst Coaches Ford Arao and Sandy Arespacochaga. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

NLEX Road Warrior John Raymundo sets up offense. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

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2014 Top draft pick Stanley Pringle warms up for Global Port Batang Pier. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Batang Pier Yancy De Ocampo posts up against NLEX Road Warrior Aldrech Ramos. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

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NLEX Road Warrior John Raymundo calls play with Batang Pier Terrence Romeo guarding him. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

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NLEX Road Warriors from left: Acting head coach (for PBA debut) Adonis Tierra and MPTC Pres. & CEO Ramoncito Fernandez. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

NLEX Road Warrior Mark Borboran works in the paint. Catch PBA games live in SMART ARANETA Coliseum. If not you can watch the PBA’s 40th season live airing on TV5 five times a week on TUES, WED and FRI, with the first game at 4:15 p.m. and the second game at 7 p.m.; on SAT at 5 p.m.; and SUN at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Regine Angeles (Salvacion) and Richard Quan (Albert) are lead stars of SIGAW SA HATINGGABI. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

Photos by Jude Bautista

From FDCP release:

The supernatural takes a sinister turn in “Sigaw sa Hatinggabi,” director Romy V. Suzara’s entry in this year’s Sineng Pambansa Horror plus Film Festival presented by the Film Development Council of the Philippines and showing at SM Cinema branches nationwide from October 29 – November 14, 2014.

standing from left: Alvin Anson (Cong. Calipes), Regine Angeles (Slavacion), Robert Kuan (Albert), China Roces (Robina), Glea Burbano (Fern), Marga Yabes (Clarissa), David Karell (Xander) and Kevin Rivas (Rain). Foreground right Mavi Lozano (Marcus), & Hero Bautista (Direk Allan G. Pangalan). Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

standing from left: Alvin Anson (Cong. Calipes), Regine Angeles (Salvacion), Robert Kuan (Albert), China Roces (Robina), Glea Burbano (Fern), Marga Yabes (Clarissa), David Karell (Xander) and Kevin Rivas (Rain). Foreground right Mavi Lozano (Marcus), & Hero Bautista (Direk Allan G. Pangalan). Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

Direk Romy finds inspiration from our culture’s widespread belief that the spirits of the dead linger on and visit the living. He shares, “Of course, there would be those that don’t believe but there are many who do because there are times when a relative passes away, the spirits of the dead come back and make themselves felt.”

Marga Yabes & Alvin Anson Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

The Gala Premiere of “Sigaw sa Hatinggabi” takes place on October 23, 2014 at the SM North Edsa, Cinema 1, at 7:00pm. The premiere is to be attended by the director as well as his cast and crew, and invited guests. The screening will be open to the public for free on a first-come-first-serve basis due to limited seating capacity.

from left: China Roces (Robina), Romy Suzara, Hit composer Lito Camo and Glea Burbano (Fern) of SIGAW SA HATINGGABI. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

During the Horror plus Film Festival press conference last week, direk Romy explained that funding makes it difficult to go from mainstream film making to indie, and FDCP allows filmmakers to bridge that gap. “Maybe next year, FDCP will surely give even more seed money,” direk Romy joked to a chuckling audience, but earnestly added, “Hopefully, FDCP will continue to make festivals like this.”

foreground from left: David Karell (Xander), Hero Bautista (Direk Allan G. Pangalan), Mavi Lozano (Marcus), Kevin Rivas (Rain), standing from left: Alvin Anson (Cong. Calipes), Romy Suzara, Regine Angeles (Salvacion), Robert Kuan (Albert), China Roces (Robina), Glea Burbano (Fern) and Marga Yabes (Clarissa) of SIGAW SA HATINGGABI. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

Direk Romy is too one of the believers of spirits from his own personal experiences, as he shared in an interview with FDCP, “when FPJ [Fernando Poe, Jr.] died, I get to dream about him often. Then when Rudy Fernandez died, he returns to me in my dreams. So, there I believe that spirits are amongst us.” The legendary FPJ was supposed to star in Direk Romy’s “Tahimik Ngunit Mapanganib” before the actor’s untimely death in 2004, and Rudy “Daboy” Fernandez was a dear friend of the director’s, both having worked in the 1981 action drama “Pepeng Shotgun.” Direk Romy explained that he wants “Sigaw sa Hatinggabi” to recreate the feeling of sprits being present. “While watching the film I want the audience to experience that there are spirits around us.”

Robert Kuan’s selfie with zombies. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

The film puts an ominous and threatening spin on that belief, as the story, inspired by a news item Direk Romy once read, revolves around the investigation of a battered woman’s mysterious death. The wife of a famous man, she was forced to keep her husband’s beatings secret, lest the media slander his reputation with reports about his violence against his wife. When her husband finds out about her untimely death, he seeks the help of a celebrity medium, who has a third eye and leads the group of paranormal investigators. They communicate with spirits in order to solve the mystery—was his wife murdered or did she commit suicide? In a “Big Brother”-esque style, a TV documentary crew records the investigation in the haunted house as the supernatural events unfold. The film stars Regine Angeles, Richard Quan, Lance Raymundo, Vangie Labalan, David Karell, Marga Yabes, Hero Bautista, Alvin Anson and China Roces.

Standing from left Glea Burbano (Fern), China Roces (Robina), Romy Suzara, Marga Yabes (Clarissa) & Alvin Anson (Cong. Calipes) foreground left Mavi Lozano (Marcus), Hero Bautista (Direk Allan G. Pangalan), Kevin Rivas (Rain) and David Karell (Xander). Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

Direk Romy described Regine Angeles, who is in her first lead role, the celebrity spirit medium, as a much underrated actress and was thrilled to have her as his leading lady. She said of Direk Romy, “He’s a legend, very skilled as a director. It’s an honor for me to be part of his film.”

from left: Regine Angeles, Van Leano, Paolo Gumabao & Manny Valera. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

Regine Angeles plays lead role Salvacion Delavis in SIGAW SA HATINGGABI. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

“Sigaw sa Hatinggabi” is unique among his previous ventures in horror as it deals with a mysterious serial killer. Direk Romy noted, “You’d think you already determined the killer but you’re wrong.” Another new feature to the film is the use of CGI (computer generated imagery) to assist in the visualization of characters’ transformations through morphing.

from left: Mavi Lozano, Elaine Lozano, Baby Nebrida, Jodi Nebrida and Christine Nebrida. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

The film is sure to be his scariest. Direk Romy warns, “If you are going to watch the film, if you have a weak heart, if you are alone, never ever watch this movie.” The film is sure to be filled with twists as Direk Romy declares, “I want the theater to be filled with screams, no, not just once, but at least ten times!”

from left: Carlos Maceda, Romy Suzara & Mel Navarro. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

The Horror plus Film Festival will officially kick off on October 29 and will run until November 4 in all SM Cinema branches nationwide at regular admission prices. Stay tuned by visiting the FDCP homepage (www.fdcp.ph) and the FDCP Facebook page for announcements and further screening details.

Marife Necesito of BACAO. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Dave Karell & Gerald Sommerauer. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Regine Angeles plays lead role Salvacion Delavis in SIGAW SA HATINGGABI. Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Marga Yabes (Clarissa), Regine Angeles (Salvacion), Romy Suzara, China Roces (Robina) and Glea Burbano (Fern). Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Hero Bautista (Direk Allan G. Pangalan), China Roces (Robina), Glea Burbano (Fern) & Marga Yabes (Clarissa). Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Marga Yabes (Clarissa), David Karell (Xander), Kevin Rivas (Rain) & Mavi Lozano (Marcus). Catch the HORROR PLUS Film Fest from October 29-Nov.14, 2014 at SM Cinemas. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Jo Ann Bitagcol (Model and photographer) in Rhett Eala creation on the ramp for Jewelmer 35th, Miracle of the Golden Pearl September 23, 2014. CATCH a feature on Jo Ann this Sunday Nov 9, 2014 — 7PM on CNN Phils (formerly 9TV/ SOLAR News Channel). Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and Photographed

By Jude Bautista

Mark your calendars and TV sets this Sunday, 7PM November 9, 2014, at CNN Philippines (formerly 9TV): a feature of successful fashion/commercial photographer and model Jo Ann Bitagcol will be on GOOD COMPANY.

GOOD COMPANY is the type of show, which is the antithesis to your normal showbiz artista interviews. IT caters to a more creative side, influencers, photographers, designers and musicians, interesting people who have something to say with their work APART from looking good themselves.

I learned about the show from a personal message by Producer Michi Ancheta who requested permission to use one of my photos from my poetry blog for Jo Ann.

In an article written by Romeo Moran for Scout MAG, he describes GOOD COMPANY as: “a weekly half-hour profile/documentary series that features prominent personalities in their respective fields of interest—from the creative worlds of film, art, fashion, and pop culture, just to name a few. With YoungStar’s Raymond Ang as executive producer, the show will shed light on these luminaries by following their everyday lives, looking into their personal journeys, and understanding the way their creative minds work by exploring the facts, the people surrounding them, and the personalities themselves.”

Other episodes feature Preview Magazine editor in chief Pauline Suaco-Juan, in-demand wedding videographer Jason Magbanua, visual artist Leeroy New, comedian/TV personality/Internet action star Ramon Bautista, indie film director Pepe Diokno, model and photographer Jo Ann Bitangcol, athlete/writer/celebrity chef Erwan Heusaff, and fashion designer Joey Samson.

Good Company will be airing every Sunday at 7 p.m. on CNN Phils (formerly 9TV). For more info, check out Good Company on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Get a good scare from the official WALKING DEAD PRISON HOUSE at Eastwood City. Tonight, November 9, 2014 is the last night. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

I was walking home from the ABS CBN Sports & Action/ Rexona Fight Expo at Eastwood Open Area when I saw this ridiculously long line. I had no idea what it was for except there were so many kids and grown-ups giddy with excitement. The line that stretched around the block was for the (official) WALKING DEAD PRISON HOUSE at Eastwood City. Tonight, November 9, 2014 is the very last night the PRISON HOUSE will be there.

People could NOT wait to get into the official WALKING DEAD PRISON HOUSE at Eastwood City. Tonight, November 9, 2014 is the last night. Photo by Jude Bautista

Get a good scare from the official WALKING DEAD PRISON HOUSE at Eastwood City. Tonight, November 9, 2014 is the last night. Photo by Jude Bautista

If you’re s fan of the hit series from FOX (the way my brother George is)—they’re called The Walking Dead Heads by the way, IF you’re into zombies, IF you just want a good scare then you CANNOT miss this opportunity. Get your family, friends, loved ones, meet and be scared by zombies by falling in line. It’s a very cheap thrill at 100 pesos considering it has THE WALKING DEAD series stamp on it.

Get a good scare from the official WALKING DEAD PRISON HOUSE at Eastwood City. Tonight, November 9, 2014 is the last night. Photo by Jude Bautista

People could NOT wait to get into the official WALKING DEAD PRISON HOUSE at Eastwood City. Tonight, November 9, 2014 is the last night. Photo by Jude Bautista

The more people saw the reminders the more they want to try it: DUE to the INTENSE nature of the horror house Parental discretion is advised for children below 13 years of age…Pregnant women and person suffering from any medical condition including heart ailments, respiratory problems, seizures, nervous disorders, notion sickness, claustrophobia or other physical injuries are NOT allowed to enter.

Get a good scare from the official WALKING DEAD PRISON HOUSE at Eastwood City. Tonight, November 9, 2014 is the last night. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Get a good scare from the official WALKING DEAD PRISON HOUSE at Eastwood City. Tonight, November 9, 2014 is the last night. Photo by Jude Bautista

People could NOT wait to get into the official WALKING DEAD PRISON HOUSE at Eastwood City. Tonight, November 9, 2014 is the last night. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Get a good scare from the official WALKING DEAD PRISON HOUSE at Eastwood City. Tonight, November 9, 2014 is the last night. Photo by Jude Bautista

People could NOT wait to get into the official WALKING DEAD PRISON HOUSE at Eastwood City. Tonight, November 9, 2014 is the last night. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Get a good scare from the official WALKING DEAD PRISON HOUSE at Eastwood City. Tonight, November 9, 2014 is the last night. Photo by Jude Bautista

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People could NOT wait to get into the official WALKING DEAD PRISON HOUSE at Eastwood City. Tonight, November 9, 2014 is the last night. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Get a good scare from the official WALKING DEAD PRISON HOUSE at Eastwood City. Tonight, November 9, 2014 is the last night. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Jo Ann Bitagcol shows her factory IDs from Indo Phil Cotton Mills Inc. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Written by

Jude Bautista

Perception can be the strangest thing. What is completely apparent and obvious to me may not be the same thing another person sees or feels. There are occasions when I find that extremely strange and unbelievable. How different people perceive the same phenomena, in this case a person. But it IS true.

Photographer and model Jo Ann Bitagcol is featured in the CNN Philippines produced GOOD COMPANY. The show is aired on 9TV every SUNDAY 7pm.

I’ve never had the pleasure and privilege of actually meeting Jo Ann Bitagcol although, I have photographed her several times as a model in fashion shows. I’m also a fan of hers as photographer, from her countless magazine covers and she’s done an infinite number of fashion spreads for the biggest brands AS photographer.

Jo Ann’s fashion photography; model and TV personality Joey Mead is on the right. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Jo Ann Bitagcol models the piece de resistance for Dennis Lustico in the SALON show last September 12, 2013. Photo by Jude Bautista

My favorite photos of Jo Ann are when she wears pants and suits ala Marlene Dietrich. There was this one fashion show where she was the only woman in what was basically a men’s line. The reason I found her so hot was the fact that her femininity shone through while wearing what was essentially men’s clothes. She has Asian traits, fair skinned, slits for eyes, thin soft lips that are all unmistakably… feminine. This is what makes her stand out among a dozen male models all wearing similar clothes. That’s why she was cast there too.

Filmmaker Jeffrey Jeturian is one of the ‘3 Fairy Godmothers’ that discovered Jo Ann Bitagcol. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

That’s why it was with disbelief that I was listening to Jeffrey Jeturian relating an experience of Jo Ann’s. She was teased by street kids calling her: bakla bakla bakla. (fag fag fag) The interview was from a feature by GOOD COMPANY a new show by CNN Philippines aired on 9TV, 7pm Sundays. The show interviews and shows a day in the life of different artists, creative minds and interesting people. The show opened my eyes to how I and other people perceived Jo Ann.

NOT that there’s anything wrong with our gay sisters, it just never occurred to me that’s all. The more I see Jo Ann in jeans and t-shirt the more attractive and feminine she is to me. I don’t know why. I just don’t know how she could possibly look masculine.

Jo Ann Bitagcol models the piece de resistance for Dennis Lustico in the SALON show last September 12, 2013. Photo by Jude Bautista

For me what distinguishes men and women’s bodies are the curves. I love how her slender neck curves to her shoulders, how her waist curves to her hips, how her long thighs curve to her sleek legs. Her jawline is extremely, perfectly shaped extenuating her elegant neck. I can’t imagine seeing her anything than female.

from left: from left: Sen. Ralph Recto, Ryan Christian Recto, Gov Vilma Santos, director Jeffrey Jeturian, Jenelyn Mercado and Luis Manzano. Catch the Cinemalaya film fest from July 26-August 4, 2013 at the CCP, Trinoma, GB3 and Alabang Town Center. Photo By Jude Bautista

I respect Jefferey Jeturian as a filmmaker. I photographed the premiere of EXTRA with Vilma Santos in Cinemalaya. But I have to completely disagree with him when he ascribed some of Jo Ann’s success to the androgynous look that was prevalent in the 90s.

Direk Jeffrey Jeturian described Apples Aberin as elegant and the prevailing beauty during Jo Ann’s debut in the fashion world. I shot this photo of the Unilever PR Head for Personal Care at Fashion Watch Quartet supporting her friend Jojie Lloren’s show. It was held at Makati Shang Rila Hotel, September 2011. Photo by Jude Bautista

He said, “At the time the prevailing beauty sila Tweetie, sila Apples. Si Apples is a very elegant model. Si Jo Ann kasi even if she doesn’t fit the prevailing norm of beauty then may character siya e. It is precisely because of her unconventional looks na yan ang naging passport niya to be accepted sa modeling world. At the time uso rin naman yung androgynous look.” For me other than Psy, the majority of male K-POP stars who endorse whitening, skin moisturizers for women, now, those guys are androgynous.

Peter Lim is one of the ‘3 Fairy Godmothers’ that discovered Jo Ann Bitagcol. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Still, Jeturian was one of ‘three fairy godmothers’ (JoAnn’s words) that found her meeting with a friend in a pansiteria in Malolos. Seeing her height and facial features Peter Lim and Jay Lozada offered her work as a model.

Jay Lozada is one of the ‘3 Fairy Godmothers’ that discovered Jo Ann Bitagcol. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Jo Ann Bitagcol is the cutie on the far left. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

PAMPANGA roots, Factory worker

Whenever one sees or thinks about fashion models, humility and honesty aren’t traits that particularly come to mind. But Jo Ann exhibited this talking about her roots during the interview also from GOOD COMPANY. “I was born in Angeles City. Tubong Kapangpangan po ako. I got started in Bulacan when we moved after the Mount Pinatubo eruption. I took up my high school there. Highschool nag umpisa po yung chapter ng pagiging factory worker ko. 1994 June it says here, December 1994 official na kong worker sa Indo Phil Cotton Mills inc.”

Jo Ann Bitagcol’s Indo Phil Cotton Mills IDs. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

I felt if only for the candid revelations of her humble beginnings this show has justified itself. AGAIN, perception here plays with my mind. Just by looking at her anyone would think she’d have a privileged upbringing with her Fil-Chinese looks. I can imagine her high school in ICA and college in Ateneo. But no, she didn’t make a big deal about it, very matter of fact. She actually had to work in a factory as a high schooler.

Jo Ann Bitagcol shows her factory IDs from Indo Phil Cotton Mills Inc. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Jo Ann Bitagcol who has reached the heights of fashion not just in the Philippines but internationally. And yet casually, comfortably admits she worked as a teenager. That gives her more strength of character, makes her more ‘beautiful’ in my eyes. While some people would rather forget their humble roots she actually kept and showed her factory ID to the TV crew. (Thank you to CNN Phil Producer Michi Ancheta who acknowledged my blog for their use of my photos of Jo Ann for GOOD COMPANY)

Jo Ann is proud of working as teen-ager in a factory. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Jo Ann Bitagcol in INQUIRER RED MAGAZINE photo by Shaira Luna. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

CHANEL, Hong Kong, Paris, India

One of the highlights of her career was being cast in a CHANEL show in Hong Kong along with Lala Flores. She didn’t realize the significance until seeing the likes of Karl Lagerfeld and sharing the ramp with other supermodels: Nadja Auermann, Karen Elson and Helena Christensen. Designer Jojie Lloren, himself, worked on her first piece in Body SHOTS Competition in the mid 90s. Later on they shared an apartment in Paris where Jo Ann worked as model.

Jojie Lloren designed Jo Ann’s piece for BODY SHOTS Competition the mid 90s. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Jo Ann and designer Jojie Lloren were roomies in Paris. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

THE top Make Up artist Patrick Rosas. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Possibly the most sought after make up artist today, Patrick Rosas recalls working with Jo Ann abroad, “Image wise she gave the Philippine fashion industry a global perspective. As a model her face is everywhere. We’ve been together abroad several times: India, Paris, several times in Hong Kong. She represents the new face of Filipina, hindi lang yung typical brown skin na maganda, global dahil Asian. Several times napagkakamalan siyang Chinese or Japanese, which is good.”

Jo Ann had a unique look and gait on the ramp. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Jo Ann Bitagcol uses the Canon EOS 5D Mk III in her studio. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

8-Year Cycle

Jo Ann believes that major changes in her life seem to come in 8-year cycles. After working as a model she has transitioned into photography. It was borne out of a need to challenge herself in making better photos and going behind the camera. She credits the moral and technical support of many photographers: Lhiliane Uy , Jun De Leon, Juan Caguia, Mark Nicdao, Jake Verzosa and Nelson Villarica. This encouraged her to take it professionally. Who knows maybe filmmaking or cinematography may be in the next cycle?

Photographer Jun De Leon. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Photographer Mark Nicdao. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

While giving a tour of her studio to the TV crew distinguished designer Lulu Tan Gan was getting prepped for a shoot. Lulu said, “She has evolved. It’s her design sensibilities. She has interpreted her visions across the different disciplines in design first as a model then now, as a photographer. Since she is into fashion she has become more specialized into fashion photography. Her strength is bringing out the expression of the model and the concept of the designers clothes.” I suspect my own perception of Jo Ann will still change. One thing is certain; my fascination of her will forever continue to grow.

Prestigious designer Lulu Tan Gan talks about Jo Ann’s work. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Jo Ann Bitagcol in INQUIRER RED MAGAZINE photo by Shaira Luna. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

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Jo Ann grew up in historic Malolos, Bulacan. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Jo Ann Bitagcol uses the Canon EOS 5D Mk III in her studio. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

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far left Jo Ann Bitagcol, Wilma Doesn’t. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Jo Ann Bitagcol in INQUIRER RED MAGAZINE photo by Shaira Luna. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

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Designer Joey Samson. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Thank you to CNN Phil Producer Michi Ancheta for acknowledging my blogs. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

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Jo Ann Bitagcol’s features are both Asian and Filipina. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Photographer Jake Versoza. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

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Jo Ann’s photography for ROGUE Magazine. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Jo Ann’s fashion photography. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

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Tim Yap shot by Jo Ann Bitagcol for ROGUE Magazine. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Jo Ann Bitagcol modeled the piece de resistance for Dennis Lustico in the SALON show last September 12, 2013. Photo by Jude Bautista

Jo Ann and designer Jojie Lloren were roomies in Paris. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Jo Ann poses with the Louvre Pyramid in the background. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

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Designer Jojie Lloren is one of Jo Ann’s long time mentors and friends. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Photographer and model Jo Ann Bitagcol is featured in the CNN Philippines produced GOOD COMPANY. The show is aired on 9TV every SUNDAY 7pm.

Jo Ann Bitagcol on PREVIEW. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

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Jo Ann grew up in historic Malolos, Bulacan. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Thank you to CNN Phil Producer Michi Ancheta for acknowledging my blogs. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

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Jo Ann grew up in historic Malolos, Bulacan. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Thank you to CNN Phil Producer Michi Ancheta for acknowledging my blogs. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

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Jo Ann’s photography for ROGUE Magazine. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Photographer and model Jo Ann Bitagcol is featured in the CNN Philippines produced GOOD COMPANY. The show is aired on 9TV every SUNDAY 7pm.

Jo Ann Bitagcol checks images on her i-mac. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

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Jo Ann works with designer Jojie Lloren. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

Jo Ann Bitagcol’s famous gait as described by designer Jojie Lloren. Catch the CNN Philippines produced show GOOD COMPANY on 9TV every Sunday 7pm.

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Photographer and model Jo Ann Bitagcol is featured in the CNN Philippines produced GOOD COMPANY. The show is aired on 9TV every SUNDAY 7pm.

UFC star Carlos Condit meets super fan Ari & son Red Repalda. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

The historic first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. While the Philippines has long been the home of boxing icons such as Pacquiao, Donaire, Ellorde, Espinosa and countless more, combat sports has seen a recent resurgence of practitioners and popularity especially with the growth of MMA.

Boxing Icon and PBA coach Manny Pacquiao is also a Rexona endorser—with the latest TVC images here. Photo from official Rexona Philippines facebook

TJ Manotoc of THE SCORE, THE RUNDOWN and Jef Gaitan of BANANA NITE hosted the first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo. It was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

The ABS CBN Sports & Action-Rexona Fight Expo is the first event of its kind to bring together activities that truly help encourage more people to get into MMA and boxing. TJ Manotoc of THE SCORE, THE RUNDOWN and Jef Gaitan of BANANA NITE hosted the prestigious event.

3 Champs share their warm up and stretching techniques. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

There have been countless viewing parties sometimes held for free whenever a huge Pacquiao fight rolls along such as the upcoming fight against Alghieri. But almost none of them actually encourage people to GET INTO the sport of boxing. As fitness regiment for both men and women boxing has grown in the U.S. and around the world morphing into TAEBO etc etc.

Boxing Icon and PBA coach Manny Pacquiao is also a Rexona endorser—with the latest TVC images here. Photo from official Rexona Philippines facebook

3 Champs from right: ‘King Arthur’ Villanueva- Int’l Super Flyweight Champ, Genesis ‘Azukal’ Servania -WBO Intercontinental Super Bantamweight Champ and Jason ‘El Niño’ Pagara WBO Intl Light Welterweight pose with fan. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

Rexona’s tagline of DO MORE is embodied in the many different physical activities that were part of the fight expo. There were free Jiu Jitsu, Boxing, Muay Thai classes conducted by experts. The F.I.S.T. Gym setup booths for consultation, complete with mats and a ring.

UFC Father and son super fans Ari & Red Repalda play Tekken 6 for free at the first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo. It was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

Participants got to play arcade games measuring punching strength and TEKKEN 6 absolutely free. Fans also had a chance to win a boxing glove signed by Manny Pacquiao through a contest for the most number of consecutive punches on a speedball.

Pacquiao signed glove is prize in Speedball contest. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Flyweight Jomar Bislig of Spartacus (red) won over Argie Guiriba of Elorde Katipunan via unanimous decision. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

Amateur bouts in both boxing and MMA were also held. This is where the fight expo gives a real boost. Unlike running or basketball finding a safe venue for combat sports such as boxing and MMA are not as prevalent. You have to be a dedicated professional to get into the big events locally such as ONE FC, PXC. That’s IF you’re talented enough to do so. Those have international fighters and high-level competition.

from left: Welterweight Carl Jose Lalu of Tiger MMA (red) wins over Ken Menia of Espinosa MMA by split decision. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

Middleweight Ramon Nabong III of Tiger MMA (red) wins over Jonathan Rice of Yawsa MMA via Armbar. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

SO if you’re an MMA practitioner or a weekend warrior who has a day job, doing it for the pure love of sport, where can you go to actually compete? MMA fights have to be supervised in a safe controlled manner. At the fight expo, Pinoy amateur MMA fighters gave a good account of themselves. The event may have been one of the few venues where they could show their skills and passion. People just visiting Eastwood Mall during the weekend who watched the fighters, witnessed the enormous technical mastery in strikes, wrestling and ground game that it takes even at the amateur level to win.

Rexona gave a boost to MMA and boxing by creating a venue for practitioners to compete. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

3 Champs from left: ‘King Arthur’ Villanueva- Int’l Super Flyweight Champ, : Genesis ‘Azukal’ Servania -WBO Intercontinental Super Bantamweight Champ and Jason ‘El Niño’ Pagara WBO Intl Light Welterweight. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

3 Boxing Champs + UFC Fighter Carlos Condit

If all the action wasn’t enough for you 3 Pinoy boxing champs: Genesis ‘Azukal’ Servania -WBO Intercontinental Super Bantamweight Champ, ‘King Arthur’ Villanueva- Int’l Super Flyweight Champ and Jason ‘El Niño’ Pagara WBO Intl Light Welterweight were also there. They not only had a meet and greet but shared their warm up, stretching exercises with participants.

Carlos Condit former UFC Interim Welterweight champion and WEC Welterweight Champion Carlos Condit had a meet and greet session with fans in Eastwood Mall. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

Not long after former UFC Interim Welterweight champion, WEC Welterweight Champion Carlos Condit, had a meet and greet session with fans. The day was a huge success with a bona fide UFC star in Condit touching base with his Filipino supporters. Condit was able to pose with super fan Ari Repalda and son Red.

RUN TO YOUR BEAT is the premiere running event in the country
Photo from official Rexona Philippines facebook

Rexona / Unilever Sports and beyond

Rexona has been a very active brand in sports development in the Philippines. UNILEVER the company that produces Rexona has a commitment to sports that can be seen through out their personal care brands.

RUN TO YOUR BEAT is the premiere running event in the country
Photo from official Rexona Philippines facebook

For several years now Rexona also supports and organizes RUN TO YOUR BEAT, which is the premiere running event in the country combining a widespread sport with music. Last June there was the CLEAR DREAM MATCH that brought Manchester United legendary players Andy Cole and Paul Schole. The exhibition match has been led by superstar footballers Phil & James Younghusband.

Followed by the Master Game Face Challenge where Chris Tiu and Marc Pingris led all stars from the PBA, NCAA and UAAP in an exhibition match. The Master Game Face Challenge also brought in NBA player Kevin Love for a half time exhibition show/skills challenge.

Unilever however has far more brands than just REXONA, Master Facial Wash or CLEAR shampoo. Under the personal care branch are: Eskinol, Dove, Vaseline, Cream Silk, Tresemmé, AXE, Block & White and Pepsodent.

They produce popular home care products such as: Surf, Domex & Cif.

Rexona is only one of many top brands under the UNILEVER, AXE is also one of the successful brands in the personal care category.
Photo from official AXE Philippines facebook.

In their food products division is one of my favorite homegrown Pinoy ice cream brands of all time: Selecta. The food division also includes kitchen essentials like: Knorr, Lady’s Choice, Best Foods. And top selling tea and iced tea mix: Lipton.

Condit poses with Pinay fan who shoots a selfie. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

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3 Champs share their warm up and stretching techniques. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

IN THE CLINCH MMA Lightweight- Oyo Cruz of Xtreme Boxing Gym (blue) wins over Dik Lopez of Spartacus by split decision. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Corner of Welterweight Carl Jose Lalu of Tiger MMA (red) wins over Ken Menia of Espinosa MMA by split decision. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Genesis ‘Azukal’ Servania -WBO Intercontinental Super Bantamweight Champ and ‘King Arthur’ Villanueva- Int’l Super Flyweight Champ. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Carl Jose Lalu of Tiger MMA (red) on top and in the guard of Ken Menia of Espinosa MMA. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

Carlos Condit poses with Pinay fan. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Fight fan works the punch-testing machine for free at the first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo. It was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

Dik Lopez of Spartacus lands right hook on Oyo Cruz of Xtreme Boxing Gym. The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Ken Menia of Espinosa MMA (blue) lands a leg kick on Carl Jose Lalu of Tiger MMA (red) The first ever ABS CBN Sports & Action- Rexona Fight Expo was held last November 8, 2014 at the Eastwood City Open Area. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Lira Bermudez, Gloc 9 and Denise Barbacena. Gloc 9 was the biggest winner: Album of the year (LIHAM AT LIHIM), Song of the Year (MAGDA featuring Rico Blanco), Best Collaboration Performance (MAGDA featuring Rico Blanco) and Best Rap (MAGDA). The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

In his typical modest manner rapper composer Gloc 9 gave more credit and tribute to his collaborating artists, producer Jonathan Ong after winning an incredible 4 major trophies at the 27^th Awit Awards. The Newport Performing Arts Theater at Resort’s World Manila, last December 12, 2014 was witness to the feat.

The 27th Awit Awards was held at the prestigious Newport Performing Arts Theater of Resort’s World Manila. Check out the many fun Holiday activities.

Gloc 9 earned: Album of the year (LIHAM AT LIHIM), Song of the Year (MAGDA featuring Rico Blanco), Best Collaboration Performance (MAGDA featuring Rico Blanco) and Best Rap (MAGDA). He was also a featured artist in PAPEL written and performed by Joey Ayala who also won for Best Novelty Recording. Last year Gloc 9 also won Best Song (SIRENA) and Album of the Year (MAKATA).

Universal Records General Mgr Kathleen Dy Go (left) with Gloc 9 who won Album of the year (LIHAM AT LIHIM), Song of the Year (MAGDA featuring Rico Blanco), Best Collaboration Performance (MAGDA featuring Rico Blanco) and Best Rap (MAGDA). The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

For his acceptance speech he said, “Para sa isang composer na di marunong tumugtog ng kahit anung instrumento ako ay lubos na nagpapasalamat sa mga tumulong gumawa ng album na to.” Gloc thanked PARI, the Awit Awards and all the artists he collaborated with in the album, “Gusto ko rin magpasalamat sa Universal records. Kung wala yung very supportive na label di ko magagawa itong lahat. Sa lahat ng taong sumusuporta samin masyado akong nanliliit sa pasasalamat.”

Fan shoots selfie w Regine Velasquez. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

The song MAGDA is about a man finding out that his first love has become so desperate that she has turned to prostitution. Gloc 9 insists that he looks at it not from the point of view of the man in the song but more as a father, “Sakin naguumpisa lahat sa pagiging tama ng isang kanta kung ito’y sisimulan mo ng sincerity. Lagi kong sinasabi ay hindi dahil may kilala akong prostitute. Kung hindi dahil ako ay isang tatay ng isang batang babae. At hindi ko alam kung gaano kasakit sa isang ama na ang trabahao ng kanyang mahal na anak na babae ay ganoon nga. Feeling ko yon talaga ang tumatawid sa tao regardless kung ito ay na kikinig sa radio o ini screen para sa isang category sa isang award. Tatawid at tatawid ang message ng song. Lagi kung sinasabi ko na ito ay biyaya din. Ang kanta minsan pag na tatapos na record ko na at na rining ko ulit minsan di rin ako makapaniwala ako nagsulat noon e. I treat them as blessings na rin.”

Rico Blanco was thanked and credited for all his efforts & hard work on the single MAGDA by Gloc 9 which won Song of the Year. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014.

The title and message of the song is reminiscent of an earlier iconic hit from the 70s by Freddie Aguilar entitled MAGDALENA. Although musically they are literally worlds apart one being a fast paced, hip hop rock song while Aguilar’s is more of a folk song.

Abra won for Music Video of the Year. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Upcoming rapper Abra was nominated in a few categories and won Music Video of the Year for the song ILUSYON. Although there was a very strong audience reaction in NPAT when Enchong Dee was doing his dance moves to Yeng Constantino’s music video CHINITO that was also nominated in the same category.

Enchong Dee starred in Yeng Constantino’s video CHINITO which was nominated for Music Video of the Year. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014.

Fan shoots selfie w Regine Velasquez. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

The other big winner of the night was Regine Velasquez. Her songs NATHANIEL earned Best Inspirational/Religious Recording and HELE NI INAY got Best Musical Arrangement (Arranger Homer Flores). Her album HULOG KA NG LANGIT was also awarded: Best Album Package (Graphic Designers: Jay Saturnino D. Lumboy, Anne Katte Piñera Photographer: Mark Nicdao). SIDE A was given the Dangal ng Musikang Pilipino Award (Lifetime Achievement).

SIDE A was given the Dangal Ng Musikang Pilipino Award. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014.

The night had glittering performances from: Mark Mabasa & Friends, Pilita Corrales, KZ Tandingan, DJ Alvaro, Morisette Amon, Michael Pangilinan, Eurika, Bayang Barrios, Marion Aunor, Gino Padilla, Lloyd Umali, Manila Sound Project, Nina, The Voice Kids, Lira Bermudez & Gloc 9.

from left: Mark Mabasa, Lilibeth Garcia, JV Decena & Lucky Robles. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

The 27th Awit Awards is just one of many events in The Grand Fiesta of Resort’s World Manila. Check out the many fun Holiday activities happening from December to January 2015.

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Perkins Twins from left Jesse & Christian nominated for Best New Group. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Pilita Corrales had a scintillating medley. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Andy Alvis (ABE PAKALALE) ties with Edward (TALDAWA) for Best Regional Recording. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Thyro & Abra performed GAYUMA. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Sitti and Jungee Marcelo pick up Best World Music. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Marion Aunor earned Best New Female Performer. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Sarah Geronimo’s IKOT IKOT won Best R&B. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014.

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Nina is EGG’s allhits.ph Most Downloaded Artist and Most Downloaded song of 2013 DON’T SAY GOODBYE. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

SIDE A was given the Dangal Ng Musikang Pilipino Award. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014.

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Gloc 9 was the biggest winner: Album of the year (LIHAM AT LIHIM), Song of the Year (MAGDA featuring Rico Blanco), Best Collaboration Performance (MAGDA featuring Rico Blanco) and Best Rap (MAGDA). The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Eurika & Garry Cruz. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: DJ Alvaro, Michael Pangilinan and Morisette Amon. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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The Voice Kids, Philippines From right: Ton Ton Cabiles, Grace Alade, Angelique Trinidad, Zack Tabudlo, Allina Malaiba and Rommel Bautista. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

FRANCO won Best Rock Alternative for TO SURVIVE. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014.

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Michael Pangilinan and Morisette Amon. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Sitti & Julianne Tarroja picked up Best World Music for PANSAMANTAGGAL. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Rey Cantong and Kaye Malana-Cantong of musical duo SIX PART INVENTION. Their song TWO STEPS BEHIND is My Music Store Most Downloaded song of 2013. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Lloyd Umali. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Marion Aunor earned Best New Female Performer. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Gloc 9 & Lira Bermudez perform TRIP SILIP. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Koro Ilustrado (Waka waka) won Best New Group. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Lira Bermudez performed TRIP SILIP. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

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SIDE A was given the Dangal Ng Musikang Pilipino Award. The 27th Awit Awards was held at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila last December 12, 2014.

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FENG SHUI cast from left: Kris Aquino, Coco Martin and Carmi Martin Aquino during the MMFF parade last December 23, 2014 at Roxas Boulevard. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

I was able to shoot Kris Aquino during the MMFF parade last December 23, 2014 at Roxas Boulevard. Two days later Christmas day, I was able to shoot my high school classmate Rolinda Uy and marveled at the resemblance. She visited my brother George who came home for a holiday with Hazel and the kids.

Here’s to a great FENG SHUI to everyone in 2015!

From left: Kim, Daniel, George, Hannah, Hazel and Rolyn (Kris Aquino doppelganger). Christmas day 2014.

The world watched the drama unfold on CNN.

Written by

Jude Bautista

The world collectively held its breath the last four days. It began last Wednesday January 7, 2014 with the attack on satirical magazine CHARLIE HEBDO. Just outside of Paris 12 cartoonists, writers, editors were killed. In a connected incident the next day a policewoman was shot and killed. Saturday morning French police killed the attackers in the magazine office brothers Cherif & Said Kouachi and the suspected gunman Amedy Coulibaly of the policewoman in a simultaneous assault. A woman suspected of the attack on the policewoman Hayat Boumeddienne is still at large.

The world watched the drama unfold on CNN.

We Filipinos are one with the French people in praying for calm, sobriety and peace in this chaotic and tragic period. In the Philippines, the most recent parallel incident is the Maguindanao Massacre. A total of 35 people were killed most of whom were journalists and broadcasters in November 2009. It had the dubious distinction of the most journalists killed in one day more than any place or time in the world.

Carlos Latuff
‏@LatuffCartoons
Please, RT! #CharlieHebdo attack has another victim! Via @MiddleEastMnt #ParisShooting
https://twitter.com/LatuffCartoons/status/552847548776742914/photo/1

Both incidents are similar with the fact that killings were made to silence or prevent Freedom of expression and Freedom of the press. The attack on CHARLIE HEBDO was in retaliation for having Prophet Mohammed as a guest Editor. In the case of the Maguindanao Massacre journalists covering representatives of a mayoral candidate were killed.

John Pertzborn
‏@PERTZFOX
@kristenhare
https://twitter.com/PERTZFOX/status/553140408210161664/photo/1

The difference is that while the French government’s response has been swift along with international intelligence agencies and governments, the wheels of justice have not quite turned in the Maguindanao Massacre. Nearly 6 years later the Ampatuans still stand trial. Witnesses have been threatened and outright murdered as well. Just a day or two before writing this piece the residence of a witness was strafed by machine gun fire.

The world watched the drama unfold on CNN.

More Muslim Victims

Whether in the Philippines, France there seems to be no safe haven from jihadist or extremist violence and attacks on Freedom of speech. More than ever message of tolerance and support especially for Muslims whether in France or around the world must be spread. Hours after the Charlie Hebdo attack a grenade was thrown at a mosque in Le Mans and gunshots were fired at a Muslim prayer hall in the Port-la-Nouvelle district.

The immediate reaction of anyone in the face of violence is to get back at someone. Often such reactions are not based on rational thought. Not realizing the people they are attacking have nothing to do with extremists.

ALBAIH
‏@khalidalbaih
Sad Khartoon! I’m Just a Muslim .. From a Muslim #Cartoonist RIP #CharlieHebdo
https://twitter.com/khalidalbaih/status/552851710880653312/photo/1

The truth is that the most number of victims by jihadists or extremists are not in the western world they are actually Muslims too. Last December in Pakistan, the Taliban besieged a school killing 145. 132 of those killed were children between the ages of 6-16. ISIS in their quest to establish their Islamic state has killed thousands. Hundreds of thousands more are displaced from their homes in Iraq, Syria, Eastern Libya and parts of Sinai Peninsula all of them mostly Muslims. Media has often been accused of highlighting western victims of terrorism over those in the Middle East or Asia who are also Muslims themselves.

#Illridewithyou

In the aftermath of a jihadist attack in Sydney last December, Australians have taught the world how to be more united. Sydney TV content editor and writer Tessa Kum started the hash tag I’ll ride with you. She was inspired after reading of a woman who felt she had to take off her hair and face cover in fear of backlash against Muslims. Australians not just in Sydney started showing support it spread to other cities in Melbourne, Perth and eventually even around the world. Kum was able to use the power of social media to promote tolerance, a much-needed message of unity for Australians and NOW France in the wake of tragic violence.

Co.Create ‏@FastCoCreate
A beautiful tribute to #CharlieHebdo: http://f-st.co/bm8VjCx pic.twitter.com/424j78YTA9
https://twitter.com/hashtag/CharlieHebdo?src=hash

Channel of Peace

For the record I was born and raised Catholic just like 80% of Filipinos. We thank the French people for donating the Papal prayer books for the upcoming visit of Pope Francis January 15. Just like France we also have a considerable population of Muslim brothers. We also have an extremist group called Abu Sayaaf (Bearer of the Sword), with ties to Al Qaeda. They DO NOT however represent the vast majority of law abiding, peaceful Muslim Filipinos.

The world watched the drama unfold on CNN.

The day following the Hebdo attack Parisians lit candles in the streets and raised pens showing the superiority of the written and drawn word over the sword. Let Twitter, Facebook be our channels for peace and courage. The power of the pen has evolved into the reach and influence of social media. Extremists thrive on ignorance, poverty and intolerance. It is up to every one of us to be vigilant and spread messages of unity, support.

The world watched the drama unfold on CNN.

French President Francoise Hollande in his speech said, “Unity is our weapon.” But when he called the hostage taking at the Kosher market as Anti Semitic, the Jewish community replied, it is an attack not just to us Jews, Christians, Parisians but also to the Muslims. No we are not afraid said a sign in Paris. It takes even more courage to defy violence through peaceful means. Every one of us has the freedom to make peace.

Rob Tornoe
@RobTornoe
https://twitter.com/RobTornoe/status/552884253563039744/photo/1
Still mortified about our fallen cartoonist colleagues, but free speech will always win. #CharlieHebdo #JeSuisCharlie

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The world watched the drama unfold on CNN.

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Tessa Kum tweeted #illridewithyou against racism and influenced Australians after the Sydney attack last December. The message of support also spread around the world.
https://twitter.com/sirtessa
http://silence-without.blogspot.com/
Tessa Kum tweeted #illridewithyou against racism and influenced Australians after the Sydney attack last December. The message of support also spread around the world.
https://twitter.com/sirtessa
http://silence-without.blogspot.com/

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Daryl Cagle
‏@dcagle
Nice Rick McKee #CharlieHebdo cartoon from our http://cagle.com collections #JeSuisCharlie #Sony #sonyhack
https://twitter.com/dcagle/status/553371039271378944/photo/1

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TheNewsMinute
@thenewsminute
These are some of the cartoons by journalists at #CharlieHebdo #Replug http://bit.ly/17j2qBQ
https://twitter.com/thenewsminute/status/553888032785321986/photo/1

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Pope turns to his right for close up then a perfect ray of light falls on his holiness’ face, Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Thaddeus Bautista

Yesterday (January 15,2015), I made the mistake of trying to shoot Pope Francis (with a camera) just 2 hours before his scheduled arrival. The throngs on Quirino corner Taft Avenue near the Papal Nuncio (his official residence) were telecast on TV5. I then decided to proceed to Vito Cruz corner Roxas Boulevard instead. I was thinking maybe the crowds would be fewer; the spaces more wide open to give me a better chance to photograph him.

Upon Pope Francis’s arrival January 15, 2015, I belatedly decided to shoot him passing by on the Roxas Blvd and Vito Cruz. Because of the crowds all I could shoot well is the Video wall in front of CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

When I got there I was astounded by the swells of crowds. Families, people trying to position themselves in every space trying to get a glimpse of the Pope, filled Roxas Boulevard. I tried to look for a break in the line along the island. It took me an hour to finally decide the angle and the thickness of the crowd was just too much for me to get a decent shot. The best shot I got was of the video screen outside CCP announcing the arrival.

I felt like Matthew climbing up a tree trying to get a glimpse of the Lord in this case his Vicar. Emphasis on the disciple being a tax collector, for I’ve been remiss of my own duties as a Catholic and thought maybe I’m not worthy of the chance. For Catholics, for anyone of any faith or lack thereof, seeing the Pope is a once in a lifetime experience, even for a sinner like me. I regretted not being able to plan my shoot or make preparations for his visit here.

Jan 16, 2015 fans shoot the scene with their cell phones before Pope Francis passes by across Plaza Dilao, Quirino Ave, Paco Manila. Photo by Jude Bautista

Then we got a phone call from my brother Tim Bautista at around 5am (January 16). He was urging us, me and my parents to go to Philippine Columbian Association, where the Pope’s vehicle would pass through en route to Malacañang. I was skeptical at first because of my experience with the crowds but still hoped we would be able to see him.

Philippine Columbian Association was where we played a lot of sports growing up in Paco. Photo taken last January 16, 2015 by Jude Bautista

We had a very early breakfast in Philippine Columbian where our family played badminton in late 80s and 90s. Just across from Plaza Dilao was the stretch of Quirino Avenue leading to Malacañang. By the time I arrived there were people already waiting on the sidewalk although not as thick as yesterday. Cops, PNP officers, Barangay Officials were set up directing the human barricade.

from left: Joe Bautista, Domingo our fave Head waiter in PCA, John Chan, Tim Bautista, Erlinda Bautista and Joy Bautista. Photo taken at Phil Columbian Association last January 16, 2015 by Jude Bautista

GMA Network Reporter Sherrie Ann Torres w TV crew were there at the crack of dawn on Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

GMA network’s cameraman was already there by 6pm staking out the best angles for the oncoming vehicle of the Pope. A little later on TV5 news crew followed. I was able to shoot Sherie Anne Torres the news reporter for GMA. We saw diplomatic vehicle after diplomatic vehicle pass by on their way to the Presidential reception. Bus after bus of police, and on motorcycles sped by in both directions. I was just praying to myself: Lord please let me get a good head and shoulder shot of him.

Spanish diplomatic car speeds through for Pope’s reception in Malacañang Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

PNP Sniper on roof (left photo) checks out other elevated areas w Binoculars (right close up pic); Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

From a very cloudy dawn it opened up to blue skies. The TV5 crew was kind enough to share that he was in a vehicle but that he was waving to the crowds through an open window. Minutes before 9am his scheduled departure from the Apostolic Nunciature, we saw a military sniper assigned to one of the rooftops. A chopper or two flew above us.

Chopper flies overhead, Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Then we saw the motorcycle escorts, his vehicle was in the middle of it all surrounded by police jeeps and a truck with a camera crane behind it. I saw a hand out of the window with a white sleeve waving, one of the police jeeps blocked our view.

Pope’s police motorcycle escorts Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

A hand waves outside the window.

Then for less than 10 seconds I saw him. You could see how happy he was with the throngs of faithful that have lined the streets everywhere he went. A perfect ray of sunlight went in through the window and illuminated his kind face. I didn’t realize that I would be so affected by it. The TV5 cameraman had enough sense to jog with the entourage and get more footage. I was so overwhelmed that I wasn’t able to follow him.

Pope Francis turns to his left on Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

When we got home we watched on TV how the crowds were even INSIDE the presidential palace. All along the way after greeting government officials and the ceremony he was kissing and blessing children. One little girl even hugged him. The act was a powerful symbol of the church’s emphasis on preserving the sacredness of the family. Even though it is quite natural for him to bless and kiss babies.

Pope turns to his right for close up then a perfect ray of light falls on his holiness’ face, Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

PNoy’s Forgettable Speech

Like millions of Filipinos, I want our President to do well especially in representing us as a head of state our leader in his meeting with Pope Francis. I don’t think anyone sets out to deliberately discredit him during this important visit. But the content of PNoy’s speech was very disappointing on several levels. He does a remarkable job of discrediting himself. First he mentioned the corruption and lack of transparency of the previous administration and then chided local prelates, priests for being silent about it and then being more vocal of their criticism of him. He even cited one instance where a priest criticized him for his hair.

At 2015 he still manages to harp on the previous administration’s follies, the tail end, the final stretch of HIS own term. What may I ask happened to the former President? She’s ALREADY in jail in spite of a serious medical condition. PNoy’s vindictiveness knows no bounds, that he felt he still needed to mention this for his speech beside the Pope. His pettiness is such that he felt compelled to mention the criticism on his hair by a priest at this pivotal international visit not just for our country but also for the millions of faithful in Asia and around the world.

from left: Pope Francis poses with President Noynoy Aquino in Malacañang Palace January 16, 2015.

Speeches have weight because they reveal how we express ourselves and what’s important to us, for us. I was personally embarrassed for him and our country that he was representing. It’s very unbecoming for a head of state, making him sound superficial even narrow minded. Will the Pope and dignitaries wonder if PNoy is able to go beyond his own petty squabbles and act on urgent issues that need to be addressed? Fr. Nono Alfonso told TJ Manotoc of ANC that he was personally surprised and didn’t think it was the right venue for the President to mention those things in a speech.

Babies line up waiting for Pope Francis along Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Pope Speaks for Poor Against Corruption

In stark contrast Pope Francis spoke of the values that the Christian faith holds dear. The message is both currently relevant and is respectful of historical significance of his visit. The speech describes his visit as ‘pastoral’ and gives importance to the role of the family. “The highlight of my visit will be my meetings with families and with young people here in Manila. Families have an indispensable mission in society. It is in the family that children are trained in some values, ideals and a genuine concern for others. But the whole world sees the family can also be severed and destroyed. It needs our support.”

Father and daughter wait for Pope Francis to pass by across Plaza Dilao, Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

He made mention of the role of the family in aid of difficult times such as those experienced during Yolanda, “This visit is meant to express my closeness to our brothers and sisters who endured suffering loss and devastation caused by typhoon Yolanda. With many people though out the world I admire the heroic strength, faith and resilience demonstrated by so many Filipinos in the face of natural disasters and so many others… At great sacrifice they tapped on their time and resources creating networks of mutual help and working for the common good. This example of solidarity in the work of rebuilding teach us an important lesson. In the family every society draws the deepest resources in order to face new challenges.

Volunteer directs human barricade, Plaza Dilao, Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The Pontiff took the opportunity to remind our politicians and leaders of prioritizing the poor. This is very fundamental and at the very core of biblical tradition, “As many voices in your nation have pointed out it is now more than ever necessary that political leaders be outstanding for their honesty, integrity and commitment to the common goal. In this way they will help preserve the rich human and natural resources with which the Lord has blessed this country. Thus will they be able to marshal the moral resources needed to face the demands of the present and to pass on the coming generations a society of authentic justice, solidarity and peace. Essential to the attainment of these national goals is a moral imperative of ensuring social justice and respect for human dignity. Great biblical tradition enjoins on our peoples the duty to help the voice of the poor… I hope that these prophetic psalms will challenge everyone at all levels of society to reject every form of corruption, which divert resources from the poor.”

PCA Headwaiter Domingo behind human barricade Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Maybe we should all pray that everyone heeds the words of Pope Francis. The Filipino people want and need PNoy to do well and have ‘a commitment to the common goal’. He still has time to mend whatever broken fences he has caused with his thoughtless words and vindictiveness. Both his father and mother recognized heroes and icons of democracy preached forgiveness and reconciliation along with justice. This is one day that I will cherish; neglectful of my own faith as I had been the Lord blessed me with being able to capture the Pope’s smile.

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Human barricade behind them is vehicle of TV5, Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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MMDA officer shoots historic scene with cell phone Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Diplomatic car hurries to Malacañang reception, Plaza Dilao, Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Lady Cop in front of human Barricade, Plaza Dilao, Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

TV5 Crew stakes out scene Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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My parents Joe & Linda Bautista wait by PCA driveway last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Youth volunteers at human barricade along Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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GMA Network Reporter Sherrie Ann Torres w TV crew set up, Plaza Dilao, Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Cops also form line after human barricade along Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Babies line up waiting for Pope Francis along Quirino Ave, Paco Manila last January 16, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from right: French Pres. Francois Hollande, Malian President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker and Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo. World Leaders were arm in arm during the PARIS UNITY RALLY last January 11, 2015.

Written by

Jude Bautista

There were no speeches amidst all the dozens of world leaders, even the President of France Francoise Hollande made sure of that during the Unity rally in Paris. Sunday, January 10, 2015 days after the Hebdo and Kosher supermarket attack the world showed an unprecedented show of unity in Paris.

Top row L-R: German Chancellor Angela Merkel, British Prime Minister David Cameron, Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, EU parliament president Martin Schulz, Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, bottom row L-R European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker, Niger’s President Mahamadou Issoufou, French President Francois Hollande, Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte,–Political leaders who expressed support for the Paris Unity rally last January 11, 2015.

The day was for symbols, which became stronger than long-winded words and rhetoric. The whole world watched and saw something change for the better. The silent majority of French people who believe in peace, solidarity came out at least 1 million strong in support of CHARLIE HEBDO, in support of the Jewish victims; Je Sui Juif and Muslim victim and slain police officer Ahmed Merabet: Je Sui Ahmed.

French President François Hollande posthumously gave the Legion d’Honneur to Ahmed Merabet, Jean-Philippe and Franck Brinsolaro, laying medals on the coffins of all three slain police officers. http://edition.cnn.com/2015/01/13/europe/charlie-hebdo-france-attacks/

The display of unity among the French people was desperately needed. Without it, the whole city and country could have been plunged into chaos and greater internal strife. Fears of a backlash against Muslims are rampant. Hours after the Hebdo attack gunshots were fired and a grenade blast was already heard on a Mosque on the outskirts of Paris. The French Jewish community is on the edge fearing more attacks after the one in the Kosher supermarket. The French were making a statement through action: we are one, we are united against these terrorists attacks, we uphold our freedom of speech and expression whether Jew, Christian, Muslim or Agnostic.

1.3 Million attended the Unity rally in Paris last January 11, 2015.

Over and over again during the telecast we hear the phrase strength or tradition of secular society. It’s this nonspiritual form of government in the Republic of France that upholds the rights and freedoms of these different faiths and freedom to not have a religion.

French Ambassador to the Phil. Gilles Garachon during the candle lighting ceremony for the victims of the Charlie Hebdo attack held at Alliance Francaise de Manille last Januarry 14, 2015.

Amb Garachon on Georges Wolinski

The French Embassy along with French nationals and friends in the Philippines also had their own candle lighting ceremony in solidarity with the victims of the Charlie Hebdo attack. The solemn event was held at the Alliance Francaise de Manille last January 14, 2015.

List of fallen from Charlie Hebdo attack.

French Amb Gilles Garachon had a personal take on one of the victims, “The terrorists have tried to hit France in the heart. By killing some people who are iconic in France who represent Freedom of Speech. Those people are very well known. Georges Wolinski for example one of the cartoonists was 80 years old. He has been a cartoonist for 60 years. I remember when I was a child flipping through his cartoons I was raised with him in a way. Many French people loved those cartoonists. We have a lot of respect and sympathy for them. By killing them it was hitting France at the heart. It was a real shock when we heard about this we couldn’t believe it. Of course any assassination is very tragic. In this case it was even worse. They tried to hit our soul, which was different.”

The French Community and friends in the Philippines attended the candle lighting ceremony for the victims of the Charlie Hebdo attack. The ceremony was held at Alliance Francaise de Manille, last January 14, 2015. Photo by Martin Macalintal

According to Wikipedia: Wolinski co-founded the satirical magazine L’Enragé with Jean-Jacques Pauvert and Siné. He served as the editor-in-chief of Hara-Kiri from 1961 to 1970. Wolinski collaborated with the comics artist Georges Pichard to create Paulette, which appeared in Charlie Mensuel and provoked reactions in France during its publication. Wolinski’s work appeared in the daily newspaper Libération, the weekly Paris-Match, L’Écho des savanes and Charlie Hebdo

L-R French Pres. Francois Hollande, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, the EU Pres. Donald Tusk and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. World Leaders were arm in arm during the PARIS UNITY RALLY last January 11, 2015.

1.3 Million attended the Unity rally in Paris last January 11, 2015.

People Led Unity Rally

Garachon went on to describe the unity rally as being a response coming from the French people, “I’m very proud and grateful because the response was a huge mobilization very simple French people and very simple people worldwide standing up to say ‘No we don’t want this to happen. Killing cartoonists is reprehensible it’s the absolute intolerance. So we want to stand against this.’ This response was beautiful and was the only appropriate response to this kind of act. The right response is not to use the same violence. The right response is to stand you want us to not remain silent. We still want to fight for Freedom of speech. This is part of our soul and you will not take it away from us.”

Top row L-R: Malian President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, Denmark’s Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt, US Attorney General Eric Holder, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, European Council president Donald Tusk, Bottom row L-R: Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, Swiss President Simonetta Sommaruga, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, Bosnian Foreign Minister Zlatko Lagumdzija, Political leaders who expressed support for the Paris Unity rally last January 11, 2015.

The Paris Unity Rally is of such historical significance similar to the Fall of the Berlin Wall in 1991 and the first EDSA revolution here in the Philippines, 1986. All events showed how millions of people through peaceful means could unite and usher a new era in their countries and even the world. All three events also represented the people’s clamor for freedom and democracy.

from L-R: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Mali Pres. Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, French Pres. Francois Hollande, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, the EU Pres. Donald Tusk, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Queen Rania and King Abdullah II of Jordan. World Leaders were arm in arm during the PARIS UNITY RALLY last January 11, 2015.

The unity rally in Paris however is unprecedented because of the number of warring nations that were represented and were arm in arm during the march. Before this event no one could have imagined or predicted that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could link arms with Palestinian Pres. Mahmoud Abbas, Jordanian King Abdullah II and Queen Rania. King Abdullah II is a direct descendant of the prophet Mohammed as noted by CNN’s Fareed Zakariah. Although political rivals former Pres. Sarkozy was one of the first to be at Hollande’s side during the tragedy.

French Pres. Francois Hollande thanks Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko w beso. World Leaders were arm in arm during the PARIS UNITY RALLY last January 11, 2015.

Manly Beso beso

On the lighter side, as the march wound up Pres. Francoise Hollande in a show of deep gratitude for the presence of the leaders gave a very sincere beso beso, (kiss on the cheek) even to his male counterparts. The practice is very French and is also common to European / Mediterranean countries. Filipinos have also adopted this customary greeting from the Spanish. Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko, EU parliament president Martin Schulz, Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker readily returned the greeting. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as former military man not used to open display of intimacy as an alternative gave a firm handshake instead.

French Pres. Francois Hollande thanks European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker w beso. World Leaders were arm in arm during the PARIS UNITY RALLY last January 11, 2015.

Unifying force

There is no denying that there is a long road for France in preventing future attacks. French society must also look at how the young, unemployed, Muslim immigrants can be better integrated. There’s also no denying that there is still a very deep chasm between the Israelis, Palestinans and the rest of the Muslim world. But at the very least the two sides have come together to condemn these attacks against France. Whether it leads to real peace in the Middle East region only time will tell. Without the unity rally the situation could only get worse.

Top L-R: Croatian Prime Minister Zoran Milanovic, Kosovar President Atifete Jahjaga, Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven, Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko, Bottom L-R: Moroccan Foreign Minister Salaheddine Mezouar, Emirati Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed al-Nahyan, Tunisian Prime Minister Mehdi Jomaa, Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras and Gabonese President Ali Bongo. Political leaders who expressed support for the Paris Unity rally last January 11, 2015.

Worldwide statements of support

Amb Garachon was thankful for the show of warmth and support form the Philippine side: “It’s a very good response. All the people I have met including your President Benigno Aquino III, including your Foreign Secretary Albert Del Rosario and Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima. All the people I’ve met told me about their support and their condolences. Some of them told me even in French language Je Sui Charlie! The response has been tremendous and wonderful. It’s a great support, comfort and pleasure to hear this because when this happened the last thing you want is to feel lonely. We had a wonderful response from all our friends world wide and especially the Philippines. I’m very grateful for that.”

2nd from right: Amb Gilles Garachon from right: French Audio Visual Attaché Martin Macalintal, AF Pres. Bernardo Sim, AF Board Member Cecile Mauricio, AF Exec Dir Patrick Deyvant and French Emb Press Attache Camille Conde. A candle lighting ceremony for the victims of the Charlie Hebdo attack was held at Alliance Francaise de Manille last Januarry 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Collection of flowers and messages photo taken by CNN’s Isa Soares posted on her fb page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Isa-Soares-CNN/1440130052873277

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from left: AF Exec Dir Patrick Deyvant, Patricia Vitug, PDI reporter Veronica Uy, GMA Host/Writer Balitanghali and NUJP Vice Chair Alwyn Alburo and MB Senior Writer Roy Mabasa. A candle lighting ceremony for the victims of the Charlie Hebdo attack was held at Alliance Francaise de Manille last Januarry 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

French Pres. Francois Hollande thanks World Leaders who were arm in arm during the PARIS UNITY RALLY last January 11, 2015.

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From left: Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, British Prime Minister David Cameron and Denmark’s Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt. World Leaders were arm in arm during the PARIS UNITY RALLY last January 11, 2015.

from right: PDI reporter Veronica Uy, French Security Attaché Arnaud Salingue, and Patricia Vitug during the candle lighting ceremony for the victims of the Charlie Hebdo attack held at Alliance Francaise de Manille last Januarry 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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L-R Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Mali Pres. Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, French Pres. Francois Hollande, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, the EU Pres. Donald Tusk and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. World Leaders were arm in arm during the PARIS UNITY RALLY last January 11, 2015.

L-R: British Prime Minister David Cameron, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, Denmark’s Prime Minister Helle Thorning-Schmidt, European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncker , Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Mali Pres. Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, French Pre. Francois Hollande, German Chancellor Angela Merkel. World Leaders were arm in arm during the PARIS UNITY RALLY last January 11, 2015.

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French father and daughter show their solidarity during the candle lighting ceremony for the victims of the Charlie Hebdo attack held at Alliance Francaise de Manille last Januarry 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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6CycleMind’s Tutti Caringal w lead guitarist Herbert Hernandez. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

On January 25, 2015 members of the Special Action Force (PNP) initiated an operation to arrest and capture Zulkifli Abdhir (aka Marwan). A Malaysian national, Marwan is said to be one of the leaders of the Jemaah Islamiyah or JI. The organization is responsible for 2002 Bali bombings and many other attacks in South Eastern Asia. SAF officers engaged and neutralized Marwan in a hut at Tukanalipao, Mamasapano, Maguindanao.

http://www.wikiwand.com/en/2015_Mamasapano_clash

While the firefight ensued, it attracted the attention of MILF (Moro Islamic and Liberation Force) and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF). Unable to bring the whole body of Marwan, SAF cut off his finger for DNA testing in order to verify the identity. SAF were then attacked by MILF and BIFF armed groups. This resulted in the 44 deaths and 16 on the side of the MILF and BIFF. 14 members of the SAF sustained injuries and all of them who returned suffered the trauma of seeing their comrades killed in battle. Civilians were also reported to have been part of the casualties with 7 killed. An outcry for those who passed away in the incident followed.

http://www.wikiwand.com/en/2015_Mamasapano_clash

Five days after on January 30, 2015 was FUSION, the First Philippine Music Festival at the MOA concert grounds. A great number of musicians paid tribute to the #Fallen44 through their performances. The touching tribute for the SAF 44 was very timely and relevant showing the power of music in highlighting the loss and suffering of our men in uniform.

Sarah Geronimo shows off her Rexona white underarms w Bamboo. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Instead of it merely being a powwow for OPM (Original Pilipino Music/ Organisasyon Ng Pilipinong Mangaawit), they were able to deal with a burning issue of our time that exploded just days before the concert. The script, effects, choreography were all prepared for months in advance and yet artists were more than willing to adapt their performances to honor those who have fallen.

spot light from left: Basti Artadi, Yeng Constantino and Joey Ayala. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

The SAF44 were honored as heroes upon their return.

An actual song written and composed for the heroism of our Filipino soldiers in the future should be produced. Another event with that concept in mind where artists record the music could perform it live. Proceeds from ticket sales and CDs sold could benefit the families of those who lost loved ones and the SAF members who survived. This is a call not just for our artists and musicians but also our Recoding companies and concert producers who can get together for this cause. MORE importantly our young people should get behind it buying Filipino music, singing for something we all believe in.

Gary Valenciano dedicated his hit IPAGPATULOY MO, GALING NG PINOY for SAF 44. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

The Voice coach Sarah Geronimo shows off her Rexona white underarms. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

This is the transformative power of music, where it can positively influence lives and bring to light issues that are important to us. Who can forget BAYAN KO by Freddie Aguilar and how it unified our people’s struggle for democracy

6CycleMind had a rousing tribute to SAF 44. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

For FUSION 6CycleMind came in with black armbands. Vocalist Tuti Caringal had camouflage pants and dog tags. He dedicated SANDALAN to those who fell in Mamasapano. Although the song is a fast paced rock song it speaks of a painful time in one’s life to the point of crying. There are no hard and fast solutions it’s only us being there for one another that will ease the pain of loss. Thinking about it the song was perfect in this context especially with the lyrics.

6CycleMind’s Tutti Caringal. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

FROM: SANDALAN by 6CycleMind

Sige lang

Sandal ka lang

At wag mong pipigilan

Iiyak mo na ang lahat sa langit

Iiyak mo lang ang lahat sa akin

Andito lang ako naghihintay

Lagi mong tatandaan

Di ka naman nag-iisa

Kyla dedicated her hit SALBABIDA for SAF 44. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Kyla dedicated her hit SALBABIDA. Our fallen heroes were the rock that sustained their families both emotionally and financially. The title translates to Lifesaver.

Gloc 9; FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Gloc 9 in his spiel talked about the equality of people prior to his song SIRENA: “Kristyano, Muslim, sundalo, sibilyan mayaman o mahirap, bakla o tomboy, parepereho lang tayo.”

Bamboo dedicated TATSULOK for SAF44. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Song choice is crucial but almost exactly to the word Bamboo’s hit since a decade ago was very descriptive of what happened in the Mamapasano clash. It generally speaks of the oppression of the poor but the verse where fields/rural areas Bamboo’s TATSULOK almost predicted exactly what happened in the clash.

Bamboo sprouts wings in apocalyptic world on video wall. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

From: TATSULOK originally by Rivermaya

Totoy bilisan mo, bilisan mo ang takbo

Ilagan ang mga bangag nakatutok sa ulo mo

Totoy tumalon ka, dumapa kung kailangan

At baka tamaan ka ng mga balang ligaw

Totoy makinig ka, wag kang magpa-gabi

Baka mapagkamalan ka’t humandusay diyan sa tabi

Totoy alam mo ba kung ano ang puno’t dulo

Ng di matapos-tapos na kaguluhang ito

Hindi pula’t dilaw tunay na magkalaban

Ang kulay at tatak ay di syang dahilan

Hangga’t marami ang lugmok sa kahirapan

At ang hustisya ay para lang sa mayaman

Bamboo dedicated TATSULOK for SAF44. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Habang may tatsulok at sila ang nasa tuktok

Di matatapos itong gulo

Iligtas ang hininga ng kay raming mga tao

At ang dating munting bukid, ngayo’y sementeryo

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Gary Valenciano has always been known for his faith inspired songs. But his hit IPAGPATULOY MO GALING NG PILIPINO featuring Gabby Valenciano, originally written for OFWs also fits nicely dedicated to the soldiers. The theme of self-sacrifice and excellence is applicable to the SAF members who were chosen from the cream of the crop of the police force. While Gary sang the vocals, his son Gabby performed the rap portions of the original.

FROM: IPAGPATULOY MO GALING NG PILIPINO by Gary Valenciano featuring Gabby Valenciano

Mula pa man Noon saksi ang kasaysayan

Galing di maitatangging taglay

Lungkot at hinagpis, patuloy mong tiniis

Sa ibang bansa’y iyong pinaghusayan

Ano man ang pagdaan

Kahit na anong hidwaan

Tatapusin nang panalo ang lahat ng laban

(Iyan ang Pilipino)

Ipagpatuloy mo, galing ng Pilipino

Galing ng ating lahi, nasa palad mo

Ipagpatuloy mo galing ng Pilipino

Galing mong natatangi, pagyamanin mo

Angking galling ipagpatuloy mo

ABRA jams with Sandwich. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

SANDWICH dedicated their song SUGOD “para sa mga kapatid nating matapang na sumugod.” It was also the first time I had heard The Dawn backed up by a whole choir: The U.P. Singing Ambassadors. Vocalist and sought after actor Jett Pangan was belting out a medley of their hits. IISANG BANGKA TAYO was particularly meaningful with the message of brotherhood and even peace. The Dawn was the grand finale in a night of the biggest stars in Filipino music. Jett by dedicating their song SALAMAT, “Higit sa lahat maraming salamat sa lahat ng bayani na nag buwis ng buhay nila para sa atin!”

The Dawn was the grand finale: actor/vocalist Jett Pangan. The Dawn dedicated their medley of IISANG BANGKA, SALAMAT and TULAD NG DATI for SAF44. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

FROM: IISANG BANGKA by The Dawn

Kay dilim at kay ginaw sa kalawakan ng dagat

Ubod lakas kung humiyaw ang galit na hanging habagat

Ngunit buo ang puso mo’ng ang daluyong ay susugurin

Magkasama tayong katahimika’y hahanapin

Saan ang tungo mo mahal ko’ng kaibigan

Saan sasadyain hanap mo’ng katahimikan

Basta’t tayo’y magkasama laging sasabayan kita

Pinagsamaha’y nasa puso kaibigan kabarkada

Iharap natin ang layag sa umaawit na hangin

Kapit-bisig tayong ang gabi ay hahawiin

Dahon ng damo, tangay ng hangin

At di mo matanaw kung saan ka dadalhin

Ngunit kasama mo ako, nakabigkis sa puso mo

Daluyong ng dagat ang tatawirin natin

Saan ang tungo mo mahal ko’ng kaibigan

Saan sasadyain hanap mo’ng katahimikan

Basta’t tayo’y magkasama laging sasabayan kita

Pinagsamaha’y nasa puso kaibigan kabarkada

Iharap natin ang layag sa umaawit na hangin

Kapit-bisig tayong ang gabi ay hahawiin

Ating liliparin, may harang mang sibat

Ating tatawirin, daluyong ng dagat

Basta’t kasama mo ako, iisang bangka tayo

Anuman ang mithiin ay makakamtan natin

MTV Pinoy VJ’s from left: Josh Padilla, Yassi Pressman, Aryanna Epperson and Kito Romualdez. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Other artists in FUSION include:

Julianne Taroja, Abby Asistio, FRANCO, Jason Farol, Thyro & Yumi, Anja Aguilar, Mark Mabasa, Parokya ni Edgar, Kamikazee, The Dawn, Wolfgang, Bamboo, Rico Blanco, Gloc 9, Sarah Geronimo, Noel Cabangon, Ebe Dancel, Andrew E, Sandwich, 6cyclemind, Kitchie Nadal, Barbie Almalbis, Joey Ayala, Tres Marias, James Reid, Nadine Lustre, Yeng Constantino, Kyla, Christian Bautista, Sam Concepcion, DJ Ace Ramos, UP Singing Ambassadors, The Maneuvers and U.P. Singing Ambassadors.

KAMIKAZEE’s usie (pronounced as uss-ie) A group selfie; a picture one takes with themselves and many others in the photo. One takes an usie to be silly with friends and have fun taking random pictures of themselves. Jay he wanted his usie to be with the crowd and asks: “tag niyo kami sa facebook ha?” Photo by Jude Bautista

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The Voice coaches Bamboo & Sarah Geronimo. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Bamboo in apocalyptic world on video wall. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Yeng Constantino; FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Sandwich front man Raymond Marasigan wore a Michael Jackson jacket from Thriller. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Christian Bautista; FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Andrew E works the crowd. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Sam Concepcion; FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Other artists in FUSION include:

Ebe Dabcel; FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Wolfgang from left: Basti Artadi and Manuel Legarda. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

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The Voice coach Sarah Geronimo. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Parokya Ni Edgar vocalist Chito Miranda poses for fans’ pic. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Yeng Constantino has virtual dancer on vid wall. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Yeng Constantino’s dance partner comes to life. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

KAMIKAZEE’s Jay Contreras. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

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DJ Coki spins for Andrew E. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Andrew E; FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Other artists in FUSION include:

The Voice coach Sarah Geronimo. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from right: rapper Abra, singer songwriter Thyro and rapper Apex. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Kyla dedicated her hit SALBABIDA for SAF 44. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Paolo Valenciano; FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Andrew E works the crowd. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Barbie Almalbis displays her guitar skills. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Bamboo dedicated TATSULOK for SAF44. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Wolfgang guitarist Manuel Legarda. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Kitchie Nadal; FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Parokya Ni Edgar vocalist Chito Miranda poses for fans’ pic. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

6CycleMind from left: Manager/songwriter Darwin Hernandez, (bass) Bob Cañamo, (rhythm Guitars) Rye Sarmiento, (drummer) Vic Aquino and vocalist Tutti Caringal. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

6CycleMind wearing RayBans from left: Manager/songwriter Darwin Hernandez, (bass) Bob Cañamo, (rhythm Guitars) Rye Sarmiento, (drummer) Vic Aquino and vocalist Tutti Caringal. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from right: rapper Abra, singer songwriter Thyro and rapper Apex. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Yeng Constantino; FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Bamboo in apocalyptic world on video wall. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Sam Concepcion; FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

URBANDUB from left: bass Russell Manaloto and vocalist Gabby Alipe. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

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jumpy URBANDUB from left: bass Russell Manaloto, vocalist Gabby Alipe, drums Janjan Mendoza and guitarist John Dinopol. FUSION the 1st Phil. Music Festival was held January 30, 2015 just 5 days after the Mamasapano Clash. Photo by Jude Bautista

Other artists in FUSION include:

Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

Written by

Jude Bautista

The manager of the recruitment agency recognized her immediately and refused to assign her a maid. Ye Lanqiu’s face (Yuan Yuan Gao) had been all over the TV news, papers, everywhere. Although what she did was hardly a crime she was being treated worse than a criminal. The woman screamed at Ye loud enough for people to hear. Soon a small mob formed by the door. Suddenly dozens of them had their cellphones and tablets out shooting pictures of her wanting to capture this ‘internet star’. Yang Shoucheng (Mark Chao) tries to save her pulling her away from the mob. They get to the car and drive away, but not before dozens of photos are taken of them together in the vehicle starting yet another wave of Internet posts and speculation.

Yang Jiaqi (Luodan Wang) ussie w Yang Shoucheng (Mark Chao). Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

CAUGHT IN THE WEB is only one of the titles you can watch for free in the 9^th Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shangri La Plaza Mall. It will run from February 13-22, 2015. Aimed to promote Chinese language and culture in mainstream Filipino society the line up is composed of works from great Chinese directors along with other flicks across the genres.

from left: Shen Liushu (Xueqi Wang), director Chen Kaige & Mo Xiaoyu (Chen Hong). Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

Directed by Chen Kaige, CAUGHT IN THE WEB shows a very modern China that has out grown its traditional past. The latest work is a departure from the Cannes award winning work FAREWELL MY CONCUBINE (1993) and even FOREVER ENTHRALLED both of which are period pieces. FOREVER ENTHRALLED starring Leon Lai and Zhang Zhi Yi was also shown in Spring Film fest in 2011. Zhang likewise stars in THE GRANDMASTER with Tony Leung directed by Wong Kar Wai and is part of the fest as well.

Zhang Zhi Yi and Leon Lai are in THE GRANDMASTER by Wong Kar Wai. Watch THE GRANDMASTER and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

This latest film however still has that trademark of complex human relationships. Love that is true more often than not in Chen’s work is doomed to fail in tragedy. The real power of Chen Kaige’s work is being able to eloquently visualize these complex relationships through film. CAUGHT IN THE WEB is no exception.

Shen Liushu (Xueqi Wang) & Mo Xiaoyu (Chen Hong). Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

More than any in the past Spring Film Fests this showcases how China has progressed economically. With it are morphing and changing values. We see the billionaire in Shen Liushu played by the veteran actor Xueqi Wang. Successful businessmen (dare we say capitalists) like him are the new emerging face of China. Gone are the days when Mao praised the farmers of the fields and the laborers of the factories. Xueqi Wang is one of the more able character actors that director Chen Kaige relies on. Wang played the grand old opera master Shi Sanyan in FOREVER ENTHRALLED.

Shen Liushu (Xueqi Wang) shows his android to wife. Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

The story very clearly also dispels the long held image of media in China as being safe and as state controlled propaganda machine. There seems to be a more emboldened and enterprising breed of broadcasts journalists, which have a lot of power in deciding which stories to feature on air. Although no one was openly criticizing the Communist Party, still this is light years ahead of anything anyone outside of China could have ever imagined.

Chao Yen plays the aggressive TV producer Chen Ruoxi. Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

Chen Ruoxi is the aggressive, sometimes manipulative TV News producer willing to do anything to get the meaty story she wants. She is played by the stunning Chen Yao.

Ye Lanqiu (Yuan Yuan Gao) refuses to give her seat to old man (Bao Hua Chang). Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

The trouble begins when Ye Lanqiu refuses to give up her seat in bus to an old man, after a particularly difficult and traumatic day. Out of sheer frustration she tells off the old man when the ticket inspector yells at her to give up the seat. Unfortunately the whole thing is shot on video with a cellphone. When Ruoxi gets a hold of the video she immediately airs it on the evening news. A whole wave of Internet users demonizes Ye for not giving up her seat

commuters stare down Ye Lanqiu in bus. Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

As film audiences are aware of the background stresses of Ye’s life, one could easily understand how and why she reacted that way. We can see how China’s 800 million strong internet users can just be as vicious and judgmental as any ‘democratic’ society.

Lead actress Yuan yuan Gao has achieved fame for her TV series HEAVENLY SWORD AND DRAGON SABRE (2003), TIAN XIA DI YI (2005) and the more recent ZAN MEN JIE HUN BA (2013). But she has become one of Chinese Cinema’s hot actresses with a role in ROBIN B HOOD with Jackie Chan and the romantic hit BUT ALWAYS with Nicholas Tse shot in China and New York

Lead actress Yuan Yuan Gao plays the tragic Ye Lanqiu. Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

Yuan yuan has a sweet face and a body not necessarily of a vixen, rather girl next door. Which makes her even more sympathetic when all the disparaging comments on line and on air are heaped upon her.

Ye Lanqiu (Yuan Yuan Gao) & Yang Shoucheng (Mark Chao) go bungee jumping. Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

One of the major cast members here is Mark Chao, who Yuan yuan recently tied the knot with in 2014. There does seem to be this weird chemistry between them, a romance that is not explicitly dealt with in the film. Hong Chen the actress who plays the wife of billionaire Shen Liushu is also the wife of director Chen Kaige in real life.

Chen Hong plays the billionaire’s wife Mo Xiaoyu. Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

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David Peck is American investor Mr. Stone. Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

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Chao Yen plays the aggressive TV producer Chen Ruoxi. Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

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Yang Jiaqi (Luodan Wang) interviews Shen Liushu (Xueqi Wang). Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

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Yang Jiaqi (Luodan Wang) shoots ‘incident’ with cell. Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

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Ye Lanqiu (Yuan Yuan Gao) w Shen Liushu (Xueqi Wang). Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

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Ye Lanqiu (Yuan Yuan Gao) & Yang Shoucheng (Mark Chao) watch the sunset. Watch CAUGHT IN THE WEB and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

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There will be a Dragon dance exhibition in Shangri La Plaza mall on February 21, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

For 9 consecutive years a mix of educational institutions and organizations like the Ateneo De manila University, Ricardo Leong Center for Chinese studies, the Cultural division of the People’s Republic of China, the Confucius Institute at the Ateneo De Manila, Ateneo Celadon and Shangri La Plaza have come together to hold the Spring Film festival.

from left: ADMU Ricardo Leong Center Dir. Sidney Christopher Bata, Confucian Inst. Dir Liu Xiao Fang, Ricardo Leong founder of Ricardo Leong Center for Chinese Studies, P.R.O.C Emb. Counselor for Political Affairs Pan Feng, ADMU Pres. Fr. Jett Villarin, Shangri La Plaza EVP & Gen Mgr Lala Fojas, Dr. Rosita Leong benefactor- Leong Initiative for Ateneo Internationalization, Confucius Inst Dir Dr Ellen Palanca, Intl Studies for Chinese Arts Pres. George Uy and ADMU Chinese Painting Prof. Ceasar Cheng. Watch THE GRANDMASTER (starring Zhang Zhi Yi&Tony Leung), animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Zhang Zhi Yi is lead actress in THE GRANDMASTER, a film about Kung Fu legend Ip Man who was the teacher of Bruce Lee. Watch this and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

This year, THE GRANDMASTER starring Zhang Zhi Yi and Tony Leung, CAUGHT IN THE WEB (Gao Yuan Yuan and Mark Chao), children’s animation hit LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT are just a few of the titles that can be seen for free at the Shang Cineplex as part of the fest running from Feb 13-22, 2015

Kids and grown ups will love THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT. Watch this and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015.

The event has grown to having a Chinese Painting Exhibit, which will run from Feb 12-20. Workshops by renowned teachers such as Ceasar Cheng will be open to the public for free on Feb 14 & 20. A Lion / Dragon Dance exhibition will also be held on Feb 21 all activities will be held at the Shang Rila Plaza Mall.

from left: Ricardo Leong founder of Ricardo Leong Center for Chinese Studies, Dr. Rosita Leong benefactor- Leong Initiative for Ateneo Internationalization, Shangri La Plaza EVP & Gen Mgr Lala Fojas, Shangri La Plaza Deputy GM Pam Perez, ADMU Pres. Fr. Jett Villarin and P.R.O.C Emb. Counselor for Political Affairs Pan Feng. Watch THE GRANDMASTER (starring Zhang Zhi Yi&Tony Leung), animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

ADMU Pres. Fr. Jett Villarin; Watch THE GRANDMASTER (starring Zhang Zhi Yi&Tony Leung), animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

In his speech, Ateneo De Manila University President Fr. Jett Villarin praised the fest as more than just a collection of screenings and activities, “9 years these are significant opportunities for Filipinos especially the youth to understand the rich culture and language and heritage of China. It is our hope that understanding and appreciation will lead to greater peace and harmony among our peoples. It is only when we learn to look at the world with each other’s eyes that we can understand each other and discover our shared humanity. It is so important that we look at the world with each other’s eyes. This is what we’re trying to do even within our own Philippines. That is the gift that these films, these paintings and other exhibits give us.”

Living By the Lake 1 by Nei Nei Hui Chun 13.5 x 17 inches. This is one of many works you can see at the Chinese painting Exhibit in Shang Plaza mall from February 12-20, 2015.

Shangri La Plaza EVP & Gen Mgr Lala Fojas; Watch THE GRANDMASTER (starring Zhang Zhi Yi&Tony Leung), animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Shangri La Plaza EVP & Gen Mgr Lala Fojas reminded attendees of the opening, “Tonight is truly a night of new beginnings in more ways than one. At the Shang Cineplex the Spring Film Festival will kick off our highly anticipated line up of premiere international film festivals for the year. We thank our festival partners who have become good friends throughout the years.” Among the international film fests held at Shang Cineplex are the Silent Film Festival, Cine Europa and Eiga Sai.

A fan takes a selfie with the dragon dancers. Watch THE GRANDMASTER (starring Zhang Zhi Yi&Tony Leung), animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

l-r: Dr. Rosita Leong & Ricardo Leong founders of the Ricardo Leong Center for Chinese Studies, Master Juan Guang, Shangri La Plaza Deputy GM Pam Perez, P.R.O.C Emb. Counselor for Political Affairs Pan Feng and Shangri La Plaza EVP & Gen Mgr Lala Fojas. Watch THE GRANDMASTER (starring Zhang Zhi Yi&Tony Leung), animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

P.R.O.C. Emb. Counselor for Political Affairs Pan Feng credited ADMU & the Ricardo Leong Center for helping promote Chinese culture; “The Chinese film industry has made rapid development & improvement in recent years. China is now the third largest film producer in the world after India and the U.S. By watching these movies it will open a window to a rich and colorful Chinese culture. With the effort of the Ateneo De Manila University Ricardo Leong Center for Chinese Studies, the Spring film festival has been successfully held the past 9 years with an increasingly positive and important interest from Philippine society.”

There will be a Dragon dance exhibition in Shangri La Plaza mall on February 21, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista.

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from left: Shangri La (Yangon, Myanmar) Dir of Sales & Mktg Yinn Mar Nyo, Shang Rila Plaza Mktg. Div. Head Marline Dualan and ADMU VP for Univ.&Global Relations Fr. Joey Cruz. Watch THE GRANDMASTER (starring Zhang Zhi Yi&Tony Leung), animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Confucius Institute Coordinator Diana Dee; Watch THE GRANDMASTER (starring Zhang Zhi Yi&Tony Leung), animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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At the Break of Dawn by Ceasar Cheng 27”x18”. This is one of many works you can see at the Chinese painting Exhibit in Shang Plaza mall from February 12-20, 2015.

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There will be a Dragon dance exhibition in Shangri La Plaza mall on February 21, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista.

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Participants in the Chinese Painting Exhibit. Visit the Chinese painting Exhibit in Shang Plaza mall from February 12-20, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

There will be a Dragon dance exhibition in Shangri La Plaza mall on February 21, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista.

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Dr. Rosita Leong poses by the work of Fidel Sarmiento who has a new approach to Chinese painting. This is one of many works you can see at the Chinese painting Exhibit in Shang Plaza mall from February 12-20, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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There will be a Dragon dance exhibition in Shangri La Plaza mall on February 21, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista.

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Sun Diao plays the Chinese fiddle called ERHU at the opening of the Spring Film fest. Watch THE GRANDMASTER (starring Zhang Zhi Yi&Tony Leung), animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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There were long queues for the Spring film festival opening movie THE GRANDMASTER. Watch this and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Confucius Institute Coordinator Diana Dee with Lion Dancer. Watch THE GRANDMASTER (starring Zhang Zhi Yi&Tony Leung), animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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There will be a Dragon dance exhibition in Shangri La Plaza mall on February 21, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista.

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L-r: Shang Plaza Mktg MJ Mendoza, ADMU Ricardo Leong Center Dir. Sidney Christopher Bata, Dr. Rosita Leong benefactor- Leong Initiative for Ateneo Internationalization, ADMU Pres. Fr. Jett Villarin and Confucius Inst coordinator Diana Dee and Shang Plaza Mktg Shiela Santos. Watch THE GRANDMASTER (starring Zhang Zhi Yi&Tony Leung), animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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There will be a Dragon dance exhibition in Shangri La Plaza mall on February 21, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista.

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Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

My Angel, my own love for you has forever been unrequited.

Written by

Jude Bautista

During a thunderstorm in a dark alley one man with a white hat named Ye Wen (Tony Leung) stares down more than a dozen men. They are armed with chains, hooks and clubs. They attack him in different directions. In a flash he kicks punches and throws all of them. It doesn’t take long but the dozen or so men are subdued. A more skillful attacker: Iron Shoes (Cung Le) watches from above. Soon he crashes out a second floor window and confronts Ye Wen. Iron Shoes throws a powerful kick, which Ye fortunately sidesteps. The kick lands on a concrete wall and smashes a portion of it to pieces.

from left: Confucian Inst. Dir Liu Xiao Fang, Ricardo Leong founder of Ricardo Leong Center for Chinese Studies, P.R.O.C Emb. Counselor for Political Affairs Pan Feng, ADMU Pres. Fr. Jett Villarin, Dr. Rosita Leong benefactor- Leong Initiative for Ateneo Internationalization, Shangri La Plaza EVP & Gen Mgr Lala Fojas, Confucius Inst Dir Dr Ellen Palanca, Intl Studies for Chinese Arts Pres George Uy and ADMU Chinese Painting Prof. Ceasar Cheng. Watch THE GRANDMASTER (starring Zhang Zhi Yi&Tony Leung), animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Tony Leung (Ye Wen) disposes of more than a dozen combatants. Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

THE GRANDMASTER starring Zhang Zhi Yi of CROUCHING TIGER HIDDEN DRAGON and Tony Leung of IN THE MOOD FOR LOVE can be seen for free at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza until February 22, 2015. It is only one title among many that is part of the Spring Film Festival.

UFC Fighter Cung Le’s kick goes through concrete. Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

There will be a Dragon dance exhibition in Shangri La Plaza mall on February 21, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Director Wong Kar Wai has been a multi-awarded filmmaker having earned Cannes Best director for HAPPY TOGETHER and nominations for IN THE MOOD FOR LOVE, 2046 and MY BLUEBERRY NIGHTS (starring Norah Jones) also from Cannes. He’s known for his romance and dramas more than action. But then neither was Taiwanese director Ang Lee but met tremendous critical and commercial success with CROUCHING TIGER HIDDEN DRAGON. The same can be said for the extremely successful THE GRANDMASTER earning 10 major nods in 33rd Hong Kong Film Awards. Zhang Zhi Yi earned Best Actress from the Golden Horse and Hong Kong Film Critics as well.

Zhang Zhi Yi (Gong Er) endured negative -20 degrees Celcius weather during shooting and never complained. Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Tony Leung (Ye Wen) & Zhang Zhi Yi (Gong Er) meet in the notorious Jin Luo Opera House. Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Wong Kar Wai has a more recognizable visual style than Ang Lee. Wong has a penchant for the film noir look, which dominates a lot of the scenes here. This approach highlights the philosophical, conceptual even religious aspects of Kung Fu that is the theme of the film. Kung Fu here transcends movements and the display of strength and is more a way of thinking. The extreme close ups, moody images were shot excellently by French cinematographer Philippe Le Sourd who was nominated in the Oscars along with Costume Designer William Chang Suk Ping.

left: Song Hye Kyo, right the two women in Ye Wen’s life: from left: Song Hye Kyo (Zhang Yongcheng) and Zhang ZHi Yi (Gong Er). Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

UFC Fighter Cung Le. Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

This isn’t to say that action fans won’t be satisfied. The opening scene above includes UFC fighter Cung Le as Iron Shoes who has Vietnamese roots but grew up in the U.S. His real world martial arts abilities are in full force. Chang Chen who played Dark Cloud in CROUCHING TIGER has another cool moniker here as The Razor.

Chang Chen is The Razor. Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Fans who crave for complex ultra fast action sequences will get their fill. The way that Wong Kar Wai directed them however, emphasizes the grace of movement rather than the violence. There’s also a conscious decision to inject political history as opposed to fantasy or hyperrealism/comedy such as KUNGFU HUSTLE.

from left: Tony Leung as Ye Wen, Zhang Zhi Yi as Gong Er and Chang Chen as The Razor. Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Normally as a film reviewer I would be more conscious of spoilers, or not revealing elements that may ruin one’s cinematic experience. But in this case a more detailed background on the story will help viewers. Sometimes reading subtitles can either slow down or change one’s understanding of dialogue. And I suspect that even if one is completely fluent in Mandarin it’s still not going to be easy to understand, as there is very liberal use of metaphor and poetry in the script. In this film the main character is addressed Ye Wen the Mandarin version but is pronounced Ip Man in his native dialect of Cantonese and is the title of other more action oriented versions. THE GRANDMASTER is far more sophisticated and refined in terms of storytelling and visual treatment.

Photo shows young Bruce Lee beside Ye Wen. Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The story is about how Ye Wen a humble student of Wing Chun kung fu became one of China’s Grandmasters. Played by Tony Leung it traces the time when he is forced to confront other challengers to represent Southern kung fu to the northern masters. Early in the 20^th century there were a lot of competing martial arts academies and clans in China. After the Second World War he lives in Hong Kong and establishes his own Kung Fu academy. One of his many renowned students is Bruce Lee. Here we find out that Bruce Lee’s generosity in teaching Kung Fu and sharing knowledge originally came from his life long mentor Ye Wen.

Unrequited Love

Again, this is where THE GRANDMASTER departs from IP MAN starring Donnie Yen. While there have been a number of titles featuring the same real life character, this is where Wong Kar Wai’s treatment distinguishes itself as showing Ye Wen as more human. Perhaps this is the most real as well revealing an emotional side.

Tony Leung (Ye Wen) & Zhang Zhi Yi (Gong Er) instead of hating each other they fall in love in the midst of battle. Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Zhang Zhi Yi plays Gong Er, the daughter of kung fu grandmaster Gong Yutian (Qingxiang Wang). Gong Er meets Ye Wen in a demonstration of martial arts skills. Their battle is graceful almost like a dance. In one moment both are in mid air their faces nearly touching, lips kissing. Instead of inspiring hate in the match it sparks a flame of admiration in Gong Er’s heart. There is this unspoken bond that is shared between them since then.

Zhang has that perfect balance of beauty and even physical strength. Her roots as part of a famous Beijing Dance troupe was the perfect training for the monumental Kung Fu films she has made. She has recently been engaged to musician Wang Feng who famously proposed by sending the 9-carat diamond ring via a drone. In one scene in this film, elders trying to placate her wrathful vengeance said, “Some things are not in the hands of men but of fate.” She replies, “Well, maybe I am fate.”

Tony Leung ( Ye Wen) was a devoted husband to Song Hye Kyo (Zhang Yong Cheng). Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Unrequited love seems to be a constant theme in the films of Wong Kar Wai. He specializes in little moments, displays of affection that are not necessarily erotic but becomes so in his films. Ye Wen is a devoted husband and father. When Ye comes home his wife wipes him off with moist towel. In turn He would wash her legs and feet.

: Korea Novella star Song Hye Kyo is Ye Wen’s wife Zhang Yongcheng. Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Korean superstar Hye-kyo Song plays his wife Zhang Yongcheng. Song is famous for Koreanovelas: Autumn in My Heart (2000), All In (2003), Full House (2004), and That Winter, The Wind Blows (2013). She has gained such a reputation for beauty that she has graced the cover of VOGUE in China.

Costume Designer William Chang Suk Ping was nominated for Best Costume at the Oscars along with French Cinematographer Philippe Le Sourd. Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Tony Leung is Kung Fu Grandmaster Ye Wen/ Ip Man teacher of Bruce Lee. Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

THE GRANDMASTER has taken director Wong Kar Wai who is also screenwriter almost a decade to finish. As a result several versions of the story have come out ahead of it. In spite of this the product speaks for itself. We have a greater understanding of Ye Wen, his culture, and environs, how he came to be. In a matching of wits he responds. “You see this biscuit as the realm of martial arts, I see it as the world. There is no reason to hide knowledge we must all share what we know.”

Tony Leung (Ye Wen) pays respect to ancestors with incense. Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Uncle Jiang was a former executioner hired by Gong Er’s father to be her yaya. Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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The Ladies of the Golden Pavillion. Watch THE GRANDMASTER, animation film THE LEGEND OF KUNG FU RABBIT and other Chinese films for free in Spring Film Festival at Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall from Feb 13-22, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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