FRINGE MANILA’s Diversity

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From right: Cinemalaya Best Supporting Actor Awardee Nico Manalo, Bea Garcia, Kakki Teodoro and Nar Cabico. FRINGE multi arts festival will run from February 12–March 1, 2015 in CCP, College of St Benilde and many other venues. Photo was taken at the CSB SDA Theater by Jude Bautista.

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from left: Bernardo Bernardo (Haring Lear) & Garry Lim (Gloster). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

Haring Lear (Bernardo Bernardo): Wala na bang nakakakilala dito kay Lear? Aba hindi na ba, hindi na ba ito si Haring Lear? Ito ang kanyang mga mata, ang pagsalita ko, ganito ba, ganito ba kung lumakad siya? Malabnaw na ang kanyang pagwari. O mahina na ang kanyang pag iisip? Tulog ba siya o gising? Ang mabigat na katanungan ay kung sino siya! Gusto ko malaman sino makapagsasabi kung sino ako?

from left: Bernardo Bernardo (Haring Lear) shoves ¬¬¬McDonnel Bolanos (Hari ng Francia). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

Rather unexpectedly, especially in the beginning where Lear divides up his kingdom to his heirs, Bernardo has a booming voice befitting a king. He laughs heartily of man contented, in power relinquishing his authority to his children. Bernardo takes control of a role that also fits his stature, now at 70. His acting is not any less powerful than it was, perhaps even more so now than ever before.

CURTAIN CALL from left: Rhenwyn Gabalonzo (Edmundo), McDonnel Bolanos (Hari ng Francia), Jason Barcial (Duke ng Burgonia), Buddy Caramat (Goneril), Bernardo Bernardo (Haring Lear), Abner Delina Jr (Cordelia/Lakayo), Renante Bustamante (Duke ng Albanya), Jeff Hernandez (Duke ng Cornualles), George de Jesus III (Regan), and Lambert de Jesus (Kent). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

The physicality of it all though makes one cringe. While there are no spectacular dance moves, there is the ‘wet’ scene where a tempest nearly drowns everyone in its path. AND it really does get wet on stage most especially for Haring Lear. Being in focus delivering lines, in the throes of madness and despair while water is endlessly splashing on your face is no mean feat. He more than delivers, his performance takes you to a dark place you wish you’d never have to visit.

Bernardo Bernardo (Haring Lear); Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

This is the acting we know from Bernardo Bernardo who was part of Ishmael Bernal’s City After Dark. Although the majority of Filipinos have come to know him as Steve Carpio in HOME ALONG DA RILES with Comedy King the late Dolphy. Recently Bernardo was also in the Cinemalaya film RONDA starring Ai Ai Delas Alas.

Bernardo is a true performer. He had an allergic reaction to the wrong make up applied on opening night to the point of being hospitalized. In spite of this he was able to get back on stage the next night.

from right: PETA Playwright & Poet Anj Heruela, Bernardo Bernardo (Haring Lear), Kakki Teodoro , Rhenwyn Gabalonzo (Edmundo) & fan. Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

This particular play adapted by National Artist for Literature Bienvenido Lumbera had lead Teroy Guzman in PETA’s previous run last 2012. Even then it was well received by critics. So Bernardo being able to put his own stamp on it is even more remarkable.

Garry Lim (Gloster); Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

Another veteran actor is Garry Lim as Gloster, the ever-faithful nobleman of Haring Lear. Garry Lim was also part of the previous cast as Regan. Lim is the most tortured in a tragic cast of characters. Lim is able to give this role a sense of patience and fortitude in the face of the most difficult circumstances. Filipino words and lines roll off his tongue eloquently. Lim has also had a great number of Cinemalaya films- APARISYON, REQUIEME and AMOK roles on TV and commercial projects as well: MY LITTLE BOSSINGS, SI AGIMAT SI ENTENG KABISOTE AT SI AKO.

Buddy Caramat (Goneril); Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

The sisters and heirs to Lear are the ones that give the color of blood in this grey end of the world scenario. Buddy Camarat is Goneril the eldest strung out in heroin. She is the most whimsical of the cast having a singsong delivery to her lines. Buddy inhabits this female role quite easily, just like her onstage sister George De Jesus III who plays Regan. Both of them have come back to reprise their previous roles. While Buddy’s attack is more sensual and avaricious, George has that female touch of violence. These two ‘evil’ sisters aren’t antagonistic per se; they only hatch their treachery in order to extend control and power. In that sense we meet people like Goneril and Regan every day.

from left: Buddy Caramat (Goneril), George De Jesus III (Regan) and Jeff Hernandez (Duke ng Cornualles). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

George De Jesus III (Regan); Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

Abner Delina Jr who has also repeated his role from 2012 plays the youngest sister Cordelia. Here she is more a victim among the viciousness of her sisters. The more interesting side role for Abner is Lakayo, the court jester. For this version of HARING LEAR there is this puppet that has a demented look. Abner switches from using his own face, which has in turn a mask behind his head. There’s a real schizoid quality in Lakayo alone switching from the puppet to his ‘real’ face.

Abner Delina Jr. as jester Lakayo; Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Nico Dans (Edgardo) & Garry Lim (Gloster). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

Edgardo played by the hefty Nico Dans must have been very challenging to play as his character goes through insanity and back again. His is certainly the most physical. In one scene he literally falls off stage simulating a fall off a hill. Audiences could hear a solid thud from his wide body’s landing. He also has a smaller role as Death, who in this post apocalyptic world is only wearing speedos underneath a black cape and gyrates like Channing Tatum in MAGIC MIKE.

Nico Dans (Death); Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

Rhenwyn Gabalonzo (Edmundo) shoots heroin into Buddy Caramat (Goneril’s) arm. Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

Rhenwyn Gabalonzo as Edmundo is the most scheming and treacherous character here. Jess Evardone a veteran of independent films has even more multiple roles here as Tagapaglingkod, Matandang lalaki, Duktor ni Cordelia and Eraldo. Evardone is able to inhabit each role with sincerity and believability as he has done countless times before.

Jess Evardone (Matandang Lalaki/Duktor); Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

Every single actor and cast member has done a fantastic job, a true ensemble piece: Lambert De Jesus (Kent), Roi Calilong (Oswaldo), Renante Bustamante (Duke Ng Albanya), Jason Barcial (Duke Ng Burgonia), Jeff Hernandez (Duke Ng Cornualles) and McDonnel Bolaños (Hari Ng Francia). Inevitably we come back to the leader, Bernardo Bernardo, commandeering the powerful but heartrending figure of Lear as his own.

CURTAIN CALL from left: Garry Lim (Gloster), Rhenwyn Gabalonzo (Edmundo), McDonnel Bolanos (Hari ng Francia), Jason Barcial (Duke ng Burgonia), Buddy Caramat (Goneril), Bernardo Bernardo (Haring Lear), Abner Delina Jr (Cordelia/Lakayo), Renante Bustamante (Duke ng albanya), Jeff Hernandez (Duke ng Cornualles), George de Jesus III (Regan), Lambert de Jesus (Kent) and Jess Evardone (Matandang Lalaki/Duktor). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right: Bernardo Bernardo (Haring Lear), Abner Delina Jr. (Cordelia) & Rhenwyn Gabalonzo (Edmundo). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Renante Bustamante (Duke ng Albanya) & George De Jesus III (Regan) in wheelchair while Nico Dans (Death) looks over her. Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

Jeff Hernandez (Duke ng Cornualles); Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Jeff Hernandez (Duke ng Cornualles), George De Jesus III (Regan), Garry Lim (Gloster). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

Abner Delina Jr. (Cordelia); Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Garry Lim (Gloster) & Nico Dans (Edgardo). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: McDonnel Bolanos (Hari ng Francia) & Abner Delina Jr. (Cordelia). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Lambert de Jesus (Kent) & Nico Dans (Edgardo); Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

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top Buddy Caramat (Goneril) & bottom Rhenwyn Gabalonzo (Edmundo). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Bernardo Bernardo (Haring Lear) chides Abner Delina Jr (Cordelia). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

The set has a dark ominous look and feel, its more sparse than elaborate. Somehow it achieves the tragic theme of Lear. Hundreds of grey rags, cloths are hung from the ceiling. Behind it row upon row of white fluorescent lamps, slanted, stacked vertically. Later on the fluorescent lights flicker and spark one after the other, successfully simulating lightning in a storm sequence. Costumes are more often than not black and layered, sometimes armored reminiscent of science fiction film DUNE. The make up is a combination of Chinese Opera and Darth Maul of Star wars Episode 1-Phantom Menace.

The apocalyptic set of HARING LEAR. Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

Award winning Production Designer Gino Gonzales created a lot of the details that reinforce the concept of post nuclear Philippines in director Nonon Padilla’s mind. In the opening scene, the whole set is draped by a thin curtain in the front and to the sides. The curtains gave it a dreamy if not illusory dimension.

Through the curtain (right) George de Jesus III (Regan) proclaims her loyalty and love for her father Bernardo Bernardo (Haring Lear). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

As a photographer I was both horrified and puzzled, will the whole play be like this? If so how would I be able to shoot them competently if I have to shoot through a hazy curtain? The story unfolds; an authoritative Haring Lear (Bernardo Bernardo) bequeaths his land to eldest daughter Goneril (Buddy Caramat) as he does so, the right curtain falls. Lear then bequeaths lands to his other daughter Regan (George De Jesus III), the left curtain falls. The third one also falls until the set is free of the hazy curtain. I realized then this is not like any stage play I have seen or will see.

Through the curtain George de Jesus III (Regan) is given lands and is draped with the curtain symbolizing her inheritance. Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

Director Nonon Padilla explains, “The curtains, I wanted to use it as a symbol of the kingdom being torn apart or cut up into 3 pieces. In the end with the national anthem I don’t know if people will understand that’s Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.” The Filipino theme does not end with symbolism. National artist for Literature Bienvenido Lumbera was tapped by Nonon to translate Shakespeare’s famous work, “Yes, I specifically asked Bien to translate the play. You know KING LEAR was one of the few plays Rolando Tinio was not able to translate. Bien is a good friend and he honored me by translating the play.”

Rhenwyn Gabalonzo (Edmundo); Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

As celebrated a playwright as Shakespeare is, Filipino makes his work more accessible to more people here. For me the Filipino version is far more relatable and moving. Both the historic bard and our language are benefitted. The lyricism of our language on the other hand is exemplified through Shakespeare’s poetic dialogue.

foreground from left: Death is unmasked as Roi Calilong with Lambert de Jesus (Kent). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

In one scene Haring Lear curses the ingratitude of Goneril: “Makinig ka kalikasan. Ipasok sa kanyang sinapupunan ang pagkabaog! Tuyuin ang organong nagpaparami at sa kanyang katawan ang bata ay gumuho. Lahat ng parusa sa isang ina ng pagkamuhi. Sa ganitong paraan mararanasan ng anak ko na parang tinuklaw ng ahas ang isang magulang na nagkaroon ng anak na walang utang na loob!”

Comparing to the original: Hear, nature, hear…Into her womb convey sterility! Dry up in her the organs of increase; And from her derogate body never spring a babe to honour her! If she must teem, create her child of spleen; that it may live, and be a thwart disnatured torment to her! …Turn all her mother’s pains and benefits to laughter and contempt; that she may feel how sharper than a serpent’s tooth it is to have a thankless child!

From the written word of Shakespeare to Lumbera’s translation, which we read above is again an entirely different experience from Bernardo Bernardo’s powerful, authoritative interpretation on stage.

Buddy Camarat’s (Goneril) delivery of giving a pregnant pause in English, “Sir, I love you more than words can wield the matter;…As much as child e’er loved, or father found; A love that makes breath poor, and speech unable; Beyond all manner of so much I love you.” It has to be the weirdest, sickest, saddest way I’ve heard those three words ever said and yet in their world it works. Those are the words that Lear is looking for. It’s a performance that you have to experience for one to understand and appreciate. That slowness, the emphasis they are all necessary on stage. George De Jesus III’s delivery as Regan is just as haunting.

from left: Bernardo Bernardo (Haring Lear) and George de Jesus III (Regan). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

Padilla could have let the dialogue be all-Filipino and be done with it and yet he didn’t. His out of the box approach made him combine Filipino with English for some characters at certain lines. According to him this was done in order to illustrate the haughtiness of the royals and in turn how some servants adopt the bad habits of their masters.

from left: Lambert de Jesus (Kent) threatens Roi Calilong (Oswaldo). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

In spite of the futuristic setting, Padilla maintained the Shakespearean tradition of an all male cast, “I wanted to experiment with it. The female roles here are pretty horrible. If you cast pretty actresses it robs or veer attention away from the horror and the drama. But if you use men, they act not like transvestites. They’re really just actors playing women. It becomes clearer to me.”

from right: Bernardo Bernardo (Haring Lear) & Abner Delina Jr (Cordelia/Lakayo). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

Bernardo Bernardo while being old enough to play the role is still quite strong to withstand its rigors; “His age he’s already 70. He’s still healthy enough to take the blows in the production and to risk pneumonia during the rain scene. It’s still appropriate and perfect for him.” Along with Bernardo, a talented cast willing to shave their heads to simulate radiation poisoning turning into cancer. HARING LEAR is definitely a creative triumph one has to see.

from left: George De Jesus (Regan) & Jeff Hernandez (Duke ng Cornualles) interrogate Garry Lim (Gloster)- in stocks. Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

Finale from left: Nico Dans (Edgardo), Rhenwyn Gabalonzo (Edmundo), Garry Lim (Gloster), McDonnel Bolanos (Hari ng Francia), Jason Barcial (Duke ng Burgonia), Buddy Caramat (Goneril), Bernardo Bernardo (Haring Lear), Abner Delina Jr (Cordelia/Lakayo), Renante Bustamante (Duke ng Albanya), Jeff Hernandez (Duke ng Cornualles), George de Jesus III (Regan), Lambert de Jesus (Kent), Jess Evardone (Matandang Lalaki/Duktor) and Roi Calilong (Oswaldo). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from right: Renante Bustamante (Duke ng Albanya) lambasts Buddy Caramat (Goneril) strung out on Heroin. Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

Renante Bustamante (Duke ng Albanya). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

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foreground Abner Delina Jr (Cordelia) is denied her inheritance in front of her sisters draped from left George de Jesus III (Regan) and Buddy Caramat (Goneril). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Jeff Hernandez (Duke ng Cornualles) and Lambert de Jesus (Kent). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

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George de Jesus III (Regan); Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

McDonnel Bolanos (Sundalo) pleads in behalf of Cordelia to Haring Lear (Bernardo Bernardo). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Rhenwyn Gabalonzo (Edmundo) speaks of his treachery. Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Bernardo Bernardo (Haring Lear) listens to Jason Barcial (Duke Ng Burgonia). Studio Connection’s HARING LEAR can be seen at the CSB SDA Theater from February 27 to March 8, 2015. HARING LEAR is also part of the FRINGE MANILA Multi arts festival. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita) & Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente). Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita): Una pa lang kita na kita pinag nasahan na kita. At nung nagtapat ka sakin ng pag ibig lalo kitang pinagnasahan. Ang pagnanasang iyon ang nagdulot sakin ng di masukat na kaligayahan. La boca habla lo que el corazón desea. Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente): (Kisses her). Señora Margarita: (Pushes him away) Larga na tapusin mo na iyong misyon! Señor Vicente: Diyan ka magaling ang mambitin! Señora Margarita: Akong iyong reyna! Señor Vicente: Si! Reyna Margarita!

Shamaine Buencamino is one of the most respected and distinguished actresses, with countless roles in MAALALA MO KAYA and WAGAS. In Cinemalaya she’s done it all. For director Loy Arceñas alone her roles ranged from a manipulative wife (ReQUIEME) to a closet lesbian in NIÑO.

from left: Adrienne Vergara (Cecilia), Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita), Lharby Policarpio (Daniel), Phil Star Editor Tim Yap, LJ Reyes (Señora Teresa), Jerald Napoles and Alex Medina. Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

No one, however, has ever seen Shamaine the way she is in Tanghalang Pilipino’s JUEGO DE PELIGRO running at the CCP until March 8. She is the smoldering temptress Señora Margarita, able to seduce a man in more ways than one. There’s something even more attractive when an older woman is with younger men both of them in various stage of undress.

Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita) seduces Lharby Policarpio (Daniel). Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

Of course there is the fresh-faced LJ Reyes as the virtuous and married Señora Teresa and pretty young thing in Adrienne Vergara (Cecilia). The difference here is that while Arnold Reyes as the ultimate Don Juan– Señor Vicente seduces them all, it is Margarita who takes the reins in seducing and controlling him. Her guile makes her even more attractive. Her passion and lack of conscience is not any less comparing with men. Physically Shamaine is the most voluptuous in the cast, making her convincing along with her impeccable acting abilities. This is an achievement considering that the sexy Valerie Concepcion is an alternate to the Señora Teresa role.

LJ Reyes (Señora Teresa); Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

Seeing the leads do well is no surprise. Shamaine and Arnold Reyes have been stalwarts of the Philippine independent scene. They have more than a dozen Cinemalaya titles among them. LJ appeared in THE LEAVING with Arnold in 2010 and also did INTOY SHOKOY and THE JANITOR all from Cinemalaya.

from left: Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente), Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita), LJ Reyes (Señora Teresa), Lharby Policarpio (Daniel) & Racquel Pareno (Señora Violeta). Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

Incidentally both LJ Reyes and Valerie Concepcion who have seen acclaim on TV and films have made a fantastic account of themselves in one of the most revered companies in Philippine theater. Getting cast and performing well in Tanghalang Pilipino is no joke as these two lovely and famous names will tell you.

from left: Sherry Lara (Señora Remedios), Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente) & LJ Reyes (Señora Teresa). Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

DANGEROUS LIAISONS

Les Liaisons Dangereuses is the French novel by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos published in 1782 from which JUEGO is based on. The adaptation to Spanish 19^th century Philippines by Elmer Gatchalian is genius. The mores, culture although from a different time and place translates perfectly. Separated by a century there were also two parallel upheavals that were part of the story; the French revolution (in the novel) and our own struggle for independence, the Philippine Revolution (for the adaptation). When you watch the play you’ll find that the thinking from that era, isn’t really too far from the thinking of today.

from left: Adrienne Vergara (Cecilia), Tuxqs, Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita), LJ Reyes (Señora Teresa) & Elmer Gatchalian Playwright/Filipino Adaptation. Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Adrienne Vergara (Cecilia), Director & Set Designer Tuxqs Rutaquio, Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita), LJ Reyes (Señora Teresa) & Elmer Gatchalian Playwright/Filipino Adaptation. Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

My own introduction to it was seeing DANGEROUS LIAISONS the movie as a teenager released in 1988, of which I am a huge fan. It had the most spectacular cast Hollywood could produce at the time no less than Oscar winning John Malkovich as Vicomte Sébastien de Valmont and Glenn Close as Marquise Isabelle de Merteuil and Michelle Pfeiffer as Madame de Tourvel. The movie met with a lot of critical success and actually won 3 Oscars: Best Adapted Screenplay-Christopher Hampton, Best Art Direction-Set Decoration–Stuart Craig and Gérard James and Best Costume –James Acheson. Glenn Close and Michelle Pfeiffer were also nominated for their roles.

Based purely on looks even at the height of their Hollywood careers, I sincerely believe that Shamaine Buencamino is far more attractive than Glenn Close without giving anything away in terms of acting ability. The same can be said with our own Arnold Reyes, while being too young to be compared to the legendary career of Malkovich, he’s certainly more convincing as a striking seducer of women. Malkovich in the film was more of forcing his way into the hearts and bedrooms of women as opposed to the charms and looks that Reyes has in spades. LJ Reyes also has a more angelic face than Michelle Pfeiffer in similar roles. It’s this virtuous quality that Señor Vicente tries to break through out the story.

Adrienne Vergara (Cecilia) & Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente). Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Lharby Policarpio (Daniel), LJ Reyes (Señora Teresa), TP Artistic Director Nanding Josef, Jerald Napoles, Nicco Manalo and Alex Medina. Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

Younger Cast

Also in the film featuring younger roles are Keanu Reeves as Le Chevalier Raphael Danceny and Uma Thurman as Cécile de Volanges. Both of whom had flourishing careers after. DANGEROUS LIAISONS was before the breakout films of SPEED and THE MATRIX from Reeves. Uma not long after did PULP FICTION.

Adrienne Vergara (Cecilia); Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

Adrienne Vergara as Cecilia in JUEGO certainly had the most revealing scenes. She has a sexual awakening after being seduced by Señor Vicente. Vin Abrenica and Lharby Policarpio who alternate the role of Daniel are definitely more macho or manly than the geeky version of Reeves in DANGEROUS LIAISONS. All young cast members from Vergara, Abrenica and Policarpio have tremendously bright futures as actors. I’m 100% sure we’ll be seeing more of them in TV and film roles as well as theater after JUEGO.

LJ Reyes (Señora Teresa) & Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente). Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

Costume by James Reyes

More than any other play costume has an indispensible function here. They are an indication not just of the time period but also add an insight to the characters. In spite of many occasions where the costumes do come off in bed scenes we have an immediate impression to character by what they wear. James Reyes has an ability to design costumes that capture the essence of an era. From the colorful, whimsical in SANDOSENANG SAPATOS with Tessa Prieto Valdes Reyes is able to shift to the classic, traditional piña and jusi of JUEGO DE PELIGRO.

from left: Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita) & Racquel Pareno (Señora Violeta). Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

Spanish Language, Pinoy Humor

The adaptation has a strong Spanish influence and generous smattering of Spanish words like mujer, esposo and even Spanish lines. What makes it entertaining though is the unmistakable touch of Filipino humor that was not present in the film.

Adrienne Vergara (Cecilia): Pero Madrina di po ba yon pagtataksil? Señora Margarita: Hindi pagtataksil ang tawag doon. Ang tawag doon abilidad. Maari nating mahalin kahit sino, kahit ilan pa sila, kahit sabaysabay! Mag ingat ka kaunti ang mga opornidad para sa ating mga babae. Kaya kung ano ang meron tayo kailangan natin gamitin at samantalahin! Cecilia: Madrina, muchos gracias!

from left: Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita) & Adrienne Vergara (Cecilia). Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Aldo Vencilao (Anton), Jonathan Tadioan (Anton), Sherry Lara (Señora Remedios), Adrienne Vergara (Cecilia), Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente), Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita), LJ Reyes (Señora Teresa), Lharby Policarpio (Daniel), Racquel Pareno (Señora Violeta), Lhorvie Nuevo (Elena) and Sasa Cabalquinto (Adela). Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Jerald Napoles takes USIE (Group selfie) w pals LJ Reyes (Señora Teresa) Nicco Manalo and Alex Medina. USIE is pronounced ‘uss-ee’, rhyming with ‘fussy’. Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Lhorvie Nuevo (Elena) & Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente). Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Racquel Pareno (Señora Violeta) & Adrienne Vergara (Cecilia). Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Director & Set Designer Tuxqs Rutaquio & MANHID Sound designer TJ Ramos. Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente) pleads w Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita). Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Writer Arsenio Tan Liao, Gloc9, Director & Set Designer Tuxqs Rutaquio, Dennis Sebastian and Emman Dela Cruz. Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente) & Adrienne Vergara (Cecilia). Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Gloc 9 and Phil Star Editor Tim Yap. Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente) writes on Lhorvie Nuevo’s (Elena) back. Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIASONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente) & Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita). Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente): No puede aqui. Hindi ko magagawa ang iyo na kagustohan. Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita): Bakit hindi? Señor Vicente: Dahil napaka dali ng gusto mo na gawin ko. Kahit na sinong hombre na may libog ay kayang gawin ang misyon na yan! Ilan taon na ba si Cecilia he? Quince! Walang ka hirap hirap na susuko yan sa unang lalaki na magbibigay sa kanya ng mapupulang rosas! At sinisiguro ko sayo na hindi ko pa na bababa ang aking calzoncillo hihilata na yan sa aking kama!

Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente); Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

The accent is Spanish speaking Filipino, in the 19^th century, never mind that historically the bourgeoisie at the time didn’t really speak that way. Tagalog was in no way a basis for the national language until Pres. Manuel L. Quezon came along, that’s why he has the title ‘Ama Ng Wikang Pilipino’. Both characters, Señora Margarita and Señor Vicente didn’t even consider themselves Filipino—with references of going home to Madre España.

from left: Vin Abrenica (Daniel), Lighting Designer John Batalla, Adrienne, Dramaturg Giselle Garcia, LJ Reyes (Señora Teresa), Director & Set Desgner Tuxqs Rutaquio, Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita), Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente), Elmer, Sheenly Gener, Sound Designer Jed Balsamo, Lharby Policarpio (Daniel) & TP Artistic Dir Nanding Josef. Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

We get it historical accuracy had to be compromised with communicating to today’s audience. Playwright Elmer Gatchalian’s dialogue succesfully walked that fine line between being true to the characters / their era and being understood by viewers. Just as he did with ROSARIO in the MMFF, which was also, a period piece, an homage to Manuel V. Pangilinan’s family matriarch. JUEGO was thoroughly researched, with Gatchalian consulting with the likes of Dr Nick Tiongson (Prof Emeritus U.P. Film Institute and former Dean of College of Mass Communication U.P.). Elmer currently works as Creative Consultant for TV5 and helped develop shows like: BABAENG HAMPAS LUPA, FACE TO FACE, SA NGALAN NG INA, PINOY EXPLORER and POSI+IVE.

from left: Noel Ferrer, Playwright/Filipino Adaptation Elmer Gatchalian, Natl Artist for Literature Bien Lumbera, Director & Set Desgner Tuxqs Rutaquio, Dr Nick Tiongson and JUEGO Sound Designer Jed Balsamo. Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

Going beyond the dialogue lies the real power of the performer. For me, even if one reads the line above from the ultimate lover Señor Vicente its not a spoiler. It’s not one tenth as moving or powerful versus the delivery of Arnold Reyes. He convinces us, he becomes the Don Juan, the unfailing charmer and romancer of hundreds of women.

Tanghalang Pilipino’s JUEGO DE PELIGRO had a successful run at the Tanghalang Aurelio Tolentino in the Cultural Center of the Philippines. For the hundreds of people who saw it, laughed, was moved and charmed, many more can watch it IF we raise enough clamor for a second run. Somehow I don’t doubt that people who already saw it WILL do so because it is THAT good.

TV5 beauties from left: Malak So Shdifat & Eula Caballero with Vin Abrenica (Daniel). Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

A lot of it rests on the lead star Arnold Reyes, this article is only following the dozens already written in praise of this young actor’s actor. Just to give an idea of his versatility his film role immediately before JUEGO was for Cinemalaya, which undoubtedly had the most torrid gay love scene with Oliver Aquino (KASAL) in the fests history.

from left: Adrienne Vergara (Cecilia), Angel Aquino, LJ Reyes (Señora Teresa), Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita), Iza Calzado & Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente). Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

KASAL is the story about the contrasting acceptance between the families of a gay couple. Oliver as Paolo had a more modern and open-minded family while it was Arnold’s (as Sherwin) who was more conservative. Directed by Jay Altarejos it won Best Picture, Best Cinematography (Mycko David), Best Production Design (Harley Alcasid) and Best Musical Direction (Richard Gonzales) in the Director’s Showcase category.

Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita) & Vin Abrenica (Daniel). Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Costume Designer James Reyes, Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita), Angel Aquino & Playwright/Filipino Adaptation Elmer Gatchalian. Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

There was no doubt in people’s minds that Arnold Reyes and Oliver Aquino’s performance in KASAL was excuse the pun a coming out party in terms of their acting prowess. Arnold has been around for a while doing a lot of notable work. In Cinemalaya alone he’s done: PISAY, ASTIG, PUROK 7, BIG TIME. He’s done several commercial films like SHE’S DATING THE GANGSTER, KALEIDOSCOPE WORLD and has seen a lot of roles in MAALAALA MO KAYA, MOON OF DESIRE, WANSAPANATAYM and countless more on TV.

from left: LJ Reyes (Señora Teresa) & Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente). Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

Seeing him live however, doesn’t compare to his on screen work. There’s magnetism to Arnold especially in this role as Señor Vicente. The comparison to DANGEROUS LIAISONS the film which was also adapted from the same novel as the play is inevitable. John Malkovich was in the same role and Arnold felt intimidated while doing research for the role. “Pumayag akong gawin yung role not knowing napaka hirap pala ng piyesa na gagawin namin. Nung na pa nood ko yung DANGEROUS LIAISONS, na takot ako. Ang hirap pala nitong pinapagawa sa amin. Sinabi ko kay Tad (Jonathan Tadioan) napaka hirap ng trabaho natin pero mahal na mahal naman natin. Kasi bago matapos yung play talagang lupaypay nako.”

He was practically in 70% of the scenes if not more. So this took a physical toll considering it had a running time of nearly 3 hours, “Nakakapagod talaga siya. Yung adrenalin nandun kung photo op na pagod na pagod nako. Pag na rinig ko na yung national anthem ayan na naman ako. Medyo na hilo yata ako nung oras na yon. Emotionally ang hirap ng transition, pagka hiwahiwalay ng emosyon. Ang hirap hirap niya puntahan ng instant lagi. Break lang noon pupunta lang backstage magpapalit ng damit pag pasok ibang emosyon na agad e yon ang challenging talaga”

Lhorvie Nuevo (Elena) & Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente). Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

What Malkovich never had is the dashing looks of Arnold Reyes and his muscular physique and that was what a lot of female and yes, gay fans were hoping to see. There were quite a few raunchy and nude scenes that were here in JUEGO. His butt was definitely bare in more than one sex scene. As photographer shooting during the play, I received a few requests for the photo of the ‘crucial’ scenes. Alas I was luckier capturing Jonathan Tadioan’s backside that was bared nearer the audience.

from left: Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente) and Jonathan Tadioan (Anton). Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

Although it was the interplay with Señora Margarita according to him that was initially more challenging than the sex scenes. His challenge was working with Shamaine Buencamino whom he admired so much as an actress, “Inalalayan niya ko. Tinuruan niya ko actually. Naging madali yung mahirap dapat na eksena. Hanggang sa eto na ginagawa na namin. Pumapasok na sa systema namin. Nagiging automatic na lahat yon. Para sakin isang magandang experience itong Juego De Peligro bilang isang actor kasi ang dami ko talagang na tutunan.”

from right: Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente) & Racquel Pareno (Señora Violeta). Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

He approaches each role starting from scratch whether its for TV film or the stage, “Kailangan ma buo ko yung element at yung proceso para ma buo ko yung character ginawa ko sa KASAL, ginawa ko sa Juego De Peligro. Definitely ibang iba si Señor Vicente doon sa huling ginawa ko doon sa KASAL. Happy naman ako na iiba iba ko siya. As an actor malaking bonus sakin kung na iiba iba ko yung role at character na ginagawa ko e. Yon yung fulfillment ko na ibahin siya physically, emotionally, mentally. Challenge yon lagi.”

from left: Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente) & Vin Abrenica (Daniel). Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

Arnold has always been modest and accommodating even in the face of adulation after his performance. Immediately after the premiere of KASAL last year classical music writer and film reviewer Adrian Lontoc requested I shoot a pic with lead stars Arnold and Oliver Aquino. As evidence of their comedy improv skills the two lifted their legs up and Arnold stuck his tongue near Adrian’s ear simulating a weird sex trio. I posted it on facebook and in the caption identified Adrian as the mysterious third party (not seen in the film) that was a source of conflict for the onscreen couple. Arnold shared it on his own fb page and it quickly went viral.

Presenting the Mysterious 3rd Party
(Center) Adrian Lontoc was not shown in KASAL but he was the source of jealous fights between lovers from left Oliver Aquino (Paolo) and Arnold Reyes (Sherwin). Looking at Adrian I now understand director Jay Altarejos’ decision to NOT include him in the film. Photo was taken after the KASAL gala at the CCP main theater August 5, 2014 by Jude Bautista.

For JUEGO DE PELIGRO they produced signs from the chosen lines of the actors. Adrian requested Arnold to duplicate the pose from last year’s photo while holding up ‘Hindi ko kasalanan’. Sound Designer and MANHID Musical Director Jed Balsamo responded beside them with the sign: Que Horror! From a gay role to a Don Juan to wacky snapshots, whatever the medium Arnold Reyes’ acting career is on fire!

from right Arnold Reyes (Señor Vicente) recreates his KASAL pose w Adrian Lontoc, JUEGO Sound Designer Jed Balsamo expresses his disdain. Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Aldo Vencilao (Anton) & Lhorvie Nuevo (Elena). Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Racquel Pareno (Señora Violeta) & Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita). Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

Adolf Alix & LJ Reyes (Señora Teresa); Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Vin Abrenica (Daniel); Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Adrienne Vergara (Cecilia), Jerald Napoles and Phil Star Editor Tim Yap. Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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LJ Reyes (Señora Teresa); Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Jonathan Tadioan (Anton) & Sasa Cabalquinto (Adela). Catch Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP until March 8, 2015, watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Pal Roderick Paulate hugs LJ Reyes (Señora Teresa) after the last show. Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Vin Abrenica (Daniel), Racquel Pareno (Señora Violeta), Lhorvie Nuevo (Elena) & Sasa Cabalquinto (Adela). Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Sasa Cabalquinto (Adela); Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Adrienne Vergara (Cecilia); Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Aldo Vencilao (Anton) & Writer Ibarra Mateo. Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Shamaine Buencamino (Señora Margarita) & Adrienne Vergara (Cecilia). Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: LJ Reyes (Señora Teresa), Vin Abrenica (Daniel), TP Artistic Director Nanding Josef, Lhorvie Nuevo (Elena), Sasa Cabalquinto (Adela) & Dramaturg Giselle Garcia. Tanghalang Pilipino’s adaptation of DANGEROUS LIAISONS—JUEGO DE PELIGRO at CCP was a huge hit watch out for its next run; Costumes by James Reyes. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Cherie Gil (Señora Rica) & Jake Macapagal (Adjie). Catch Arbol De Fuego’s last weekend March 14 & 15, 2015 at the PETA Theater Center. Photo by Jude Bautista

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You can’t go wrong spending a weekend with some of my favorite women: Cherie Gil, Angeli Bayani, Anna Luna and distinguished actors Bembol Roco, Jake Macapagal, Raffy Tejada, Leo Rialp and many more! ARBOL DE FUEGO at the PETA Theater last weekend show March 14 & 15, 2015.

Sat Mar 14 2015 – 3:00 PM, Sat Mar 14 2015 – 8:00 PM, Sun Mar 15 2015 – 3:00 PM Sun Mar 15 2015 – 8:00 PM

from left: Jake Macapagal (Adjie), Leo Rialp (Chitong), Bembol, Cherie Gil (Señora Rica) and Raffy Tejada (Nonoy Tiking). Catch Arbol De Fuego’s last weekend March 14 & 15, 2015 at the PETA Theater Center. Photo by Jude Bautista

foreground: Anna Luna (Nina) background from left: Angeli Bayani (Charito) and Bembol Roco (Manong Ikong). Catch Arbol De Fuego’s last weekend March 14 & 15, 2015 at the PETA Theater Center. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Angeli Bayani (Charito) & Jake Macapagal (Adjie). Catch Arbol De Fuego’s last weekend March 14 & 15, 2015 at the PETA Theater Center. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Leo Rialp (Chitong), Anna Luna (Nina), Jake Macapagal (Adjie), Cherie Gil (Señora Rica), Raffy Tejada (Nonoy Tiking) & Angeli Bayani (Charito). Catch Arbol De Fuego’s last weekend March 14 & 15, 2015 at the PETA Theater Center. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Kiki Baento (Kane). Catch Arbol De Fuego’s last weekend March 14 & 15, 2015 at the PETA Theater Center. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Celeb guests from left: RAK F AEGIS Kaki Bautista, Aicelle Santos, IT couple Karylle, Yael Yuzon and Jake Macapagal (Adjie). Catch Arbol De Fuego’s last weekend March 14 & 15, 2015 at the PETA Theater Center. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Christian Bautista, Ebe Dancel, Lara Maigue, Ogie Alcasid, Davey Langit, Noel Cabangon, Casper Blancaflor, Ding Dong Avanzado and bottom foreground QUEST. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

OPM President Ogie Alcasid had a rousing duet with rapper Quest with the classic hit NANDITO AKO. The unique combination was one of many at the PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions. The first 12 hour OPM Music festival attracted thousands to the BONIFACIO High Street Amphitheater last May 14, 2015.

OPM Pres. Ogie Alcasid; PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Organized by the Organisayong Ng Pilipinong Mang-aawit (OPM) the fest featured never seen before collaborations: Christian Bautista had a duet I’M ALREADY KING with Basti Artadi (of Wolfgang), Lolita Carbon sang SELFIE from hit maker Davey Langit, Ding Dong Avanzado sang BASTA’T KASAMA KITA with Casper Blancaflor, Noel Cabangon and Lara Maigue had upbeat MR SWAVE, Ebe Dancel & Kai Honasan performed LAKAMBINI (from the Musical Rock Supremo).

PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

from left: Kai Honasan, Ding dong Avanzado, Casper Blancaflor, Noel Cabangon, Ebe Dancel, Ogie Alcasid, Lara Maigue, Davey Langit and Christian Bautista. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Kicking things off in a satellite venue just corner away from the BONIFACIO High Street Amphitheater, was where the OPM Collab Sessions also featured young musicians: Aicelle Santos, Tippy Dos Santos, Aia De Leon, Young JV, Nino Alejandro, DJ Papi, Froilan Canlas, Cucay Pagdilao and Mei Cruz.

New Talent from left: Young JV, Niño Alejandro, Cucay Pagdilao and Aia De Leon. Photo from Official OPM facebook page. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

Christian Bautista shoots selfie w Aicelle Santos. Photo from Official OPM facebook page. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

Ogie talked about why it was important to have an event like this that features new artists, “Marami sa younger generation not too keen on OPM, there should be a real effort to find younger newer artists that represent them. Otherwise ang makikilala lang nilang OPM is the music their parents listened to.”

from left: Ogie Alcasid, Raimund Marasigan, Mong Alcaraz, Mike Dizon and Diego Castillo. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The definition of OPM has already changed to include indigenous and regional recordings. Alcasid goes on, “Even the definition of OPM has to change and grow. As artists, at kahit as consumers mga tao hindi dapat complacent. Dapat maghanap tayo ng mga bagong musikero at tangkilikin natin sila. They’re the ones helping Pinoy music grow.”

New Talent from left: Mei Cruz, top Aia De Leon and Tippy Dos Santos. Photo from Official OPM facebook page. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

OPM Vice president Noel Cabangon also explained their partnership with the presenter, “If you want to maintain a better condition of your vocal chords maybe you can gargle with Bactidol. I think it’s a good collaboration for the throat and singing. Ganoon lang ka simple at kami singers.”

Ebe Dancel; PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The next similar upcoming event that fans have been looking out for is the LINGGO NG MUSIKANG PILIPINO from July 24-31, 2015. The date is one week before LINGGO NG WIKA. It’s a nationwide weeklong event celebrating Filipino music to be launched during PHILPOP Grand finals.

PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

PHILPOP is the premiere songwriting competition in the Philippines with a top prize of 1 million pesos and attracting thousands of entries. PHILPOP Grand finals will be held at the MERALCO Theater for the 3^rd consecutive year. PHILPOP is the perfect launching pad to create awareness for a nationwide event such as LINGGO NG MUSIKANG PILIPINO.

New Talent from left: (top) DJ Papi (bottom) Froilan Canlas and Aicelle Santos. Photo from Official OPM facebook page. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

In 2013 Lara Maigue was part of the first batch of PHILPOP finalists. Karylle interpreted her song SAYO NA LANG AKO. She opens up on the experience since then,“Before PHILPOP I never imagined myself to be here. To be one of the artists to stand alongside Christian Bautista, Noel Cabangon, it feels wonderful. Not a lot of people know that PHILPOP changed my life.”

Lara Maigue & Noel Cabangon. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Lara also had a stint in a show for TV5, “I was in TRINDERAS in TV5 that was aired up to December 2014. TRINDERAS, it’s a musical where we sing all OPM. It’s about 3 tinderas trending on line. My dad there in the show is here Ding Dong Avanzado. My mom there was Ara Mina. I’m so happy for her she just gave birth. Ding dong’s daughter is so beautiful she’s actually a musician also. Feeling hunk si Ding Dong well hunk naman siya talaga. He took the dad role.”

Young artists from left: Casper Blancaflor, Lara Maigue & Kai Honasan. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Perhaps as part of Ogie’s mission in developing new OPM artists is his new venture of which Lara is a part of. She added, “I have a new management A TEAM- Alcasid Entertainment Artist Management. I’m the first artist of A TEAM Ogie’s first management company. That’s exciting because they’re handling all songwriters; everyone’s a songwriter except for EMPOY. I can’t imagine being under any other talent management. Who else will understand acting, singing and composing but Ogie Alcasid?”

Basti Artadi; PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Sponsors include: Bactidol, Bonifacio High Street, Bonifacio Global City, Gold’s Gym, Local Government Unit of Quezon City, Radio Republic, Local Vocal, And&, Magic 89.9, Phil Star, Pinoy News Today, juice.ph, Max’s, McDonalds, Maynilad, RYU Ramen, Eagle Broadcasting Network, NYXSYS Phils, PhilPOP.

PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

Aia De Leon; Photo from Official OPM facebook page. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

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Quest performed his hit SALUDO. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

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Cucay Pagdilao; Photo from Official OPM facebook page. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

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Young JV poses w fans. Photo from Official OPM facebook page. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

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Kai Honasan; PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Froilan Canlas; Photo from Official OPM facebook page. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

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Davey Langit collaborated with Lolita Carbon in the song BALITA. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

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from left: Ogie Alcasid, Lara Maigue, Davey Langit and Christian Bautista. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

Who could imagine Basti Artadi of Wolfgang could ever have a duet with premiere balladeer Christian Bautista? The result is one of the most applauded duets: Artadi gave a very soulful touch to Christian’s hit I’M ALREADY KING. Basti later on dedicated his own version of PUTING ILAW to original vocalist, Karl Roy who passed away 3 years ago.

Basti Artadi; PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Thousands of attendees enjoyed a combination of new and established talents in PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions-the first 12 hour OPM Music festival at the BONIFACIO High Street Amphitheater last May 14, 2015.

Crowd shoots w tablets. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The concert was one of many free events in the posh venue. A corner away at the same time was a celebration of the 118^th Anniversary of the Phil Army. Civilians got to try on special gear by specialized units and even got to ride on an Armored Personnel Carrier.

Christian Bautista; PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Organized by the Organisayong Ng Pilipinong Mang-aawit (OPM) the fest featured very unique collaborations: Lolita Carbon sang SELFIE from hit maker Davey Langit, Ding Dong Avanzado sang BASTA’T KASAMA KITA with Casper Blancaflor, Noel Cabangon and Lara Maigue had a rousing MR SWAVE, Ebe Dancel & Kai Honasan performed LAKAMBINI (from the Musical Rock Supremo), while rapper Quest was featured in Ogie Alcasid’s NANDITO AKO.

PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

OPM VP Noel Cabangon said the event could not have happened without their partner, “For Bactidol nakahanap kami ng collaborative idea. Bactidol is for sore throat, singing is used with vocal chord. So if you want to have a good voice, if you want to maintain a better condition of your vocal chords you can gargle with Bactidol. I think it’s a good collaboration for the throat and singing. Ganoon lang ka simple at kami singers.”

The concept of having a showdown was to entertain audiences better offering something different from the usual concert fare. Noel goes on, “We already had our first collaboration last September 5. This is an offshoot of that one in Ayala. We had a Pinoy Music Festival the very first one and then merong idea ng collaboration but it’s not like the collaboration we’re going to do now. Mas daring ito e. Doon siya nagsimula last year. But of course Musical Director Nikko Rivera came up with the idea na why not parang showdown.”

Tippy Dos Santos serenades shoppers on Bonifacio High Street. Photo from Official OPM facebook page. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

from left: Ebe Dancel, Lara Maigue & Davey Langit. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Ding dong Avanzado, Casper Blancaflor, Noel Cabangon, Ebe Dancel, Ogie Alcasid, Lara Maigue, Davey Langit and Christian Bautista. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Cabangon also talked about the importance of creating events specifically for new songs / artists. “We really have to give a lot of venue for new creations to be heard. I think that has to be given priority. If we really want to move OPM further we need to have venues to showcase new works. At the same time popularize it. Para umabot sa mga tao. Kahit ako I make revival songs I cannot do that forever. I have to continue doing my own stuff and go back to writing my own music.”

OPM President Ogie Alcasid adds, “If we really want to move OPM forward there has to be more events like these where people can listen to them live. Iba kasi yung na kikita nila yung artist in person. I do have a lot of activities on TV and concerts and so on. But being able to write my own songs is important not only for me as an artist but also for the music industry, for everyone. Pinoy music has to evolve and grow.”

Ebe Dancel & Kai Honasan; PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

from left: Basti Artadi and Christian Bautista. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Sandwich from left: Mong Alcaraz and Raimund Marasigan performed KAGULO from latest album DEBRIS. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Lara Maigue with Concert and Film/TV director GB Sampedro. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Casper Blancaflor & Ding Dong Avanzado. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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2nd from left OPM Pres. Ogie poses w Sandwich from left: Diego Castillo, Mike Dizon, Raimund Marasigan and bottom Mong Alcaraz. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: OPM VP Noel Cabangon shoots USIE w Christian Bautista, Ding Dong Avanzado and OPM Pres. Ogie Alcasid. PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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PALAKASIN ANG OPM COLLAB Sessions first 12-hour OPM festival was held at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheatre, Bonifacio Global City Taguig last March 14, 2015.

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The Brass Munkeys; Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Truly a destination of life’s exquisite pleasures, Shangri-La Plaza presents a treat for the senses with Coffee, Tea, and All That Jazz at the Shang, a festival that fetes the divine goodness of our beloved beverages and its perfect partners – book, music and everything else.

from left: Shang Plaza Tenant Div Lee Ann Caimol (Acct Officer), Karen Fernandez (Asst Mgr), Shang Rila Plaza EVP & Gen Mgr Lala Fojas, Shang Plaza Tenant Div Sr Mgr Rochelle Moreno and ASHA Group PR Marie M Dizon. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

BUGATTI; Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

From March 20 to 29, the East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza’s East Wing transforms into a promenade designed like a Parisian al fresco café as participating brands present mall guests with a myriad of exclusive brews and other related products via exhibits, selling and sampling activities.

Breville; Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015.

Well-known coffee and tea brands Figaro Café, Espressamente Illy, Starbucks, Di Bella by Cravings Group, Rustan’s Department Store, Crabtree & Evelyn, National Bookstore, Powerbooks, D&K Kitchen Essentials, True Value, Astrovision, 26th Bistro and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. The Philippine Barista and Coffee Academy, Inc. will also hold a talk on brewing methods on March 21, 3pm.

Powerbooks display’s some of its titles; Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The Brass Munkeys performs as the fest begins with a special, by-invitation event prior to its official opening; highlighted by Latte Art and Brewing Methods Demonstrations for guests.

FIGARO; Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Coffee, Tea, and All That Jazz at the Shang continues with a line-up of demonstrations, talks, and interactive activities that provide more opportunities to highlight and appreciate tea and coffee offerings. Learn about Espresso Roasting, Latte Art, Brewing Methods, Baking & Coffee Pairing, while browsing through the exhibits and product displays.

Cara Manglapus; Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015.

Let soulful jazz hits accompany the robust flavors of your java journey as an impressive list of performers hit the stage during the festival run, including Moira dela Torre on March 21, The Executives on March 22, Cara Manglapus on March 28, rounded off by Vince Lahora on March 29.

Astrovision; Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

“Coffee, Tea, and All That Jazz at the Shang is our way of indulging our patrons’ love for beverages. With the best coffee, tea, and complementary brands housed at the Shang, we look forward to giving our mall guests a truly pleasurable experience in this festival,” says Shangri-La Plaza Executive Vice President and General Manager Lala Fojas.

The Executive Band; Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015.

from left: Rustan’s Events Mgr Malou Liu & Shang Mktg Head Marline Concio Dualan. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

For inquiries, call 370-2500 loc. 597 or visit: http://www.facebook.com/shangrilaplazaofficialfanpage.

Follow the Shang on Instagram: @shangrilaplazaofficial.

Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015.

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Astrovision; Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Phil Star SVP for Sales & Mktg Lucien Dy Tioco & Shang Mktg Head Marline Concio Dualan. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Breville; Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015.

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Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015.

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You can’t imagine how proud I was attending your graduation in Xavier School with your Tita Miggie and your father. Your Lolo, Nana and your whole family, everyone is so proud of you. None of us your uncles attended Xavier, your uncles Tim, Noel graduated from St Jude, George and I from St Peter. Your father attended St Jude and later graduated from LSGH. They are all good, reputable schools none of them have the prestige and exclusivity of Xavier in terms of size and tuition.

As I entered the sports complex I saw the array of classy vehicles from the well to do families that have their children graduating in Xavier. It reminded me of the many alumni who have become prominent in politics, industry and even sports. For someone of your age who is surrounded by success, wealth and people who can afford luxurious lives, however it’s easy to get lost.

This is just a gentle reminder to ask yourself especially at your age; what is Xavier really about? Now that I’ve graduated are wealth, fame, luxury really the values they’re teaching? Are these my own goals?

The only person who can answer these questions is you.

I’m just a humble writer all I can give you are words. I’m just a photographer all I can give you are pictures. Words for me come and go they only become important when we as people give them power. We read them, believe in them and then put them to action. That’s when mere words become transformative and change our lives for the better. I’ll tell you now words I’ve written myself are not important enough for YOU to live by.

But then just before all of you threw your caps to the air, all of you recited a pledge. When I heard them, I read them from the screen that’s when I realized what Xavier is supposed to be about. The pledge seems to be at odds with what you’re surrounded with. Surely following it is difficult, impossible and most of all self-sacrificial. The more I THOUGHT of them reflected on them I realized the pledge is not for God, for country or for others, it’s a path for YOUR own happiness.

As far as I’m concerned you can forget all the academics. The one thing you can and should hold on to is your Xavier pledge. They are not my words, they were written long before you and I were born. They will help you find the answer on your own, the all-important question of WHY. So read them again, think about them, look around you. Not everything that shines is gold. You will find that just striving to follow the pledge you made will give you fulfillment.

Grateful for my Xavier Education,

do solemnly pledge to live faithfully

according to the ideals of Xavier School.

I shall value the heritage of my forefathers

and fulfill my duties

as a responsible Filipino citizen.

I pledge to uphold my humanity

and the dignity of every person.

In the spirit of Magis,

I promise to develop my God-given talents

and to share them with those most in need.

I shall work with others

to build a more just, humane, and Christian society.

I choose to follow Christ, our Lord,

as my Leader and Model.

It is He, the Light of the World,

who will make my light shine.

May I live as a “man for others,”

one who is “fully alive,

endowed with a passion for justice,

and the skills for development.”

In making this Xavier Pledge,

I ask only for this:

that I find greater meaning in my life,

and that I make a difference in the lives of others.

This I pledge before my school,

my family, and my God.

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Marie Puyat jams with The Executive Band. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

Coffee can mean a lot more than just your regular pick me up. The perfect blend of bitterness, creaminess and slightly sweet drink is certainly pleasurable by itself. Drinking coffee has a host of health benefits such as improving energy levels, makes you smarter and even helps burn fat. A lot of serious people into the coffee mania have indulged themselves in buying the best possible machines out there.

from left: D&K Kitchen Essentials Mktg Events Coordinator Angela Imperial, Espressamente Illy Sales Exec Joel Javate, Figaro Barista John Edison Villanueva, ASHA Grp Brand Mgr Kristina C. Mauricio, ASHA Grp PR Marie M. Dizon, RUSTANS Shang Branch Mgr Steven Mawdsley, Shang Rila Plaza EVP & Gen Mgr Lala Fojas, National Bookstore Shang Branch Mgr Sally Penilla, TRUE VALUE Branch Mgr Milani Castañeda, ASTROVISION Head Operating Mgr Yets Almario, Breville Phil VP & Gen Mgr Cris Llamo and Powerbooks Shang Jr Asst Branch Mgr Keith De Jesus. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

No event has brought together everything that makes a coffee experience enjoyable than COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Even if you’re not in the market to purchase any of these machines it is a great way to sample the special lattés and espressos they can produce. Some brands will even allow you to taste them for free. D&K Kitchen Essentials will also be having celebrity Chef Mitchie Sison on March 28 to transform coffee into deserts.

BUGATTI Diva studded with 14,000 Swarovski crystals available at Rustan’s. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Espresso Anyone?

There are quite a few brands of machines out there ranging from the sparkling Italian made Bugatti to the efficient Breville. Just hearing the name Bugatti harkens to supercars in Italy. But this brand name that has distinguished itself in utensils and appliances has actually made a more consistent and enduring legacy in quality and design. More than just a utilitarian piece they showcase a special Bugatti model studded with 14,000 SWAROVSKI crystals. The Diva model is designed by Andreas Seegatz and also has a luxurious price to boot. Bugatti, Bosch, Jura and Saeco can all be purchased at Rustan’s.

You can buy Breville & La Mill Coffee machines at TRUE VALUE- level 6 Main mall. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Breville’s Barista Express distributed by TRUE VALUE was Winner of Best New Product from the Specialty Coffee Association of America in 2013. Espressamente Illy has both coffee shops and coffee machines. Their outlet at the Level 2 Main mall overlooks the entrance and has a spectacular view of the expansive interior. Apart from serving amazing coffee they have unique seating that shields overhead light and provides a little more privacy. Brands such as Delonghi, Krups and Bosch are actually rated by the UK Publication Independent as among the 10 best machines.

Espressamente Illy Café is at the 2nd level Shang Plaza Main mall. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Figaro can be found at 3rd level Shang Plaza Main mall. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Figaro allows you to customize your own flavors and blends for the reasonable price tag of P100 per cup. It’s every coffee lover’s dream to taste blends from Starbucks, Crabtree & Evelyn, 26th Bistro and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf in one place. We also got a taste for Di Bella Coffee imported from Melbourne Australia. You can get a fantastic cup of Di Bella in any of the ASHA Group of companies such as CRAVINGS, EPICURIOUS and WICKED.

Di Bella Coffee is served in CRAVINGS, EPICURIOUS and WICKED. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Choco Dipped Croissant topped with Almonds from EPICURIOUS lower ground level East wing. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Delectable Pastries & More

An eye-catching array of pastries was served during the opening, almost like a best of hits: Choco Dipped Croissant topped with Almonds, Fruit & Nut Cookies from EPICURIOUS, m&m cookies, Banana loaf, choco chip cookies from CRAVINGS. There’s Brookies, Apple Pie, Red Velvet Reeses Cupcake and Salted Caramel Macaroon from WICKED. All these shops along with Rustan’s and True Value can be found in Shang Plaza Mall.

Reese’s Cupcake & Red velvet Cupcake from WICKED 5th level East wing. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Apart from the pastries is the special bite sized appetizers from SPATZLE located at the East Wing of Shang Mall. I ate them so quickly I was not able to photograph them. Arancini Balls is perfect for the Pinoy palate: risotto rice balls stuffed with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. Their Carbonara was also bite sized; you can have their garlic breadsticks in Moutabal dip. SPATZLE gives a great taste of accessible European cuisine along with pastries such as Banana Bread Florentina, Red Velvet Cake and Toffee Pudding.

Spatzle at level 5 East wing Shang Mall. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Powerbooks is at 6th level Shang Plaza Main mall. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Café Literature

Long before the age of laptops and tablets, cafés were gathering places for the most notable writers, artists and thinkers. Hemingway wrote, “big principal cafes where people were lost in them, and no one noticed them, and they could be alone and in them and be together.” In the 1920s Ernest Hemingway met Gertrude Stein and Ezra Pound as a young correspondent in Paris. The City of Lights’ cafes have inspired this event as well. What better accompaniment to coffee than reading their work or books in general? National Bookstore, Powerbooks have a selection of good reads on coffee. Astrovision displays its own collection of Jazz titles as well.

ASTROVISION is at the ground level main wing. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Cara Manglapus will perform on March 28 at COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall which will run from March 20-29, 2015.

Soulful Jazz

Perhaps what makes this event special is the combination of exceptional Jazz artists that are on hand to soothe you as you partake in the best java available. Cool voices like Cara Manglapus can be heard on March 28, rounded off by Vince Lahora on March 29. Bands like THE BRASS MUNKEYS, THE EXECUTIVE BAND and Moira Dela Torre have already crooned to audiences at the East Atrium the previous week.

The Executive Band from left: Francis Manglapus (Guitars), Martin Macalintal (Keyboards) & Julius Sanvictores (Drums). Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

THE BRASS MUNKEYS featured their new vocalist Christopher Villanueva originally from Rockabilly/punk band HILERA. Villanueva along with former members of HILERA are also working on a project with Ely Buendia & PUPIL. During the opening THE BRASS MUNKEYS had a wonderful up-tempo mix of Beautiful Maria, Stray Cats Strut, In the Mood, Tequila, Mambo no.5 and King of Swing.

The Executive Band’s Ricky Quiogue. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Last Sunday Listening to vocalist Ricky Quiogue of THE EXECUTIVE BAND is always a pleasure. Ricky has his own unique voice, which can be described as a cross between the raspy style of Louis Armstrong and subtle voice of Tony Bennett. They also have a new female vocalist in Marie Puyat.

What comes across with THE EXECUTIVE BAND is their passion and enjoyment in playing the standards and classics, which translates very well in their sound. Quiogue did wonderfully in C’est Si Bon, Birth of the Blues and Just the Way You Are. Marie Puyat had that silky, sultry touch in Smooth Operator and Wind Beneath My Wings. This weekend promises to be an even bigger draw with Cara Manglapus and Vince Lahora as performers.

The Executive Band top level from left: Francis Manglapus (Guitars), Bob Brillante (Alto Sax), Butch Silverio (Trumpet), Hector Sanvictores (Tenor Sax), Mike Tan (Baritone Sax) 2nd level from left: Martin Macalintal (Keyboards), Marie Puyat (Vocalist), Ricky Quiogue (Vocalist), Rene Mamaril (Bass) foreground: Julius Sanvictores (Drums) . Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Shang Rila Plaza EVP & Gen Mgr Lala Fojas, ASTROVISION Head Operating Mgr Yets Almario and Breville Phil VP & Gen Mgr Cris Llamo. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Top brands Bugatti, Bosch, Jura, Saeco and Krups can be purchased in RUSTAN’S ground level Shang Plaza main mall. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

RUSTANS Events Mgr Malou Liu & RUSTANS Shang Branch Mgr Steven Mawdsley. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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National Bookstore is at ground level Shang Plaza main mall. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015.

Jazz lover shoots The BRASS MUNKEYS w her I-phone. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Brookies from WICKED 5th level East wing. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Moira Dela Torre; COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015.

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Barkada fun in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Manila Standard Writer Malou Rosal, Shang Rila Plaza EVP & Gen Mgr Lala Fojas Phil Star Columnist Lai Reyes, Business World reporter Zsarlene Chua, Shang Mktg Head Marline Concio Dualan and Manila Times reporter Euden Valdez. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Breville rep demonstrates how to get the perfect cup of coffee. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

M&M cookies from CRAVINGS 5th level Main wing. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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The Executive Band’s Butch Silverio (Trumpet); Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Sultry Singer Marie Puyat shoots the Executive Band with her android. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The Executive Band’s Sax section from right: Mike Tan (Baritone Sax), Hector Sanvictores (Tenor Sax) and Bob Brillante (Alto Sax). Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Choco chip cookie from CRAVINGS 5th level Main wing. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Business World reporter Zsarlene Chua and Manila Times reporter Euden Valdez. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Salted Caramel Macaroon & Choco Macaroon from WICKED 5th level East wing. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Crabtree & Evelyn Tea Time Treat is on the 2nd Level Shang Plaza Main mall. Try out designer coffee and listen to great jazz in COFFEE TEA AND ALL THAT JAZZ AT THE SHANG, East Atrium of the Shangri-La Plaza Mall from March 20-29, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Nonito Donaire Jr raises his hand in victory and earns vacant NABF Super Bantamweight Belt. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

Last October Nonito Donaire suffered a devastating defeat against Nicholas Walters. The younger more powerful Jamaican KO’d the Filipino Flash in the 6^th round. In post fight interview Donaire considered retirement. Although it was painful for fans, he has done it all. No one would have to blame him if hung up his gloves. He was five-division world champion and the former WBA (Super) Featherweight champion. He was also a former IBF, WBO, The Ring Super Bantamweight, WBC, WBO Bantamweight, Interim WBA Super Flyweight, IBF and IBO Flyweight.

from left: Marc Pingris & Balls Channel Program Mktg Mngr Chris Wong. Rexona Men was one of the many sponsors of PINOY PRIDE 30 D-DAY. Their endorser PBA star Marc Pingris was ringside catching all the action. He can also be seen in ads for other Unilever brands such as Master Facial Wash and was part of Master Game Face Challenge along with Chris Tiu. Photo by Jude Bautista

Nonito has also earned the WBC Diamond Belt ‘created as an honorary championship exclusively to award the winner of a historic fight between two high-profile and elite boxers’. The ultra elite names of Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather Jr, Bernard Hopkins, Jean Pascal and Sergey Kovalev have so far been the few who were awarded the prestigious Diamond Belt.

Nonito Donaire Jr used his jab more in this fight maximizing reach and height advantage. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

So when the announcement for PINOY PRIDE 30 DDAY came with Nonito co headlining it with Donnie Ahas Nietes vs Gilberto Parra, everyone knew what the fight meant for Donaire. If he lost again, it would be difficult to justify having to go on in a brutal sport that favors speed, strength and a certain amount of youth. Boxing pundits especially in the Philippines would have been happy with just Donaire winning via a decision. Thoughts of retirement came again saying if he lost to Prado it may well be his last fight.

William Prado landed a few jabs that did not do damage. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

William Prado of Brazil had a 22-5-1 record. 15 of those 22 victories were knockouts. So you couldn’t be careless with Prado who had proven knock out power.

from left: Buboy Villar & Direk Paul Soriano was ringside to promote their boxing film KID KULAFU showing April 15, 2015 in cinemas nationwide. / center in striped shirt: Moymoy Macasero was part of the team that performed ‘Filipinoflash’ walk out song along with Bassilyo and Crazymix. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015 seemed ready to explode as Nonito came out of the dug out to his own walk out music: Filipinoflash by Moymoy Macasero, Bassilyo and Crazymix.

Donaire’s jab gets through Prado’s defense. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The first round exhibited the improved strength and conditioning of Nonito. He landed the more powerful hooks to the body and head. Although Prado was firing off punches they did not seem to be as heavy. The Filipino also used his jab more maximizing his superior height and reach.

(left) William Prado’s face starts to swell as early as 1st round (right) Donaire lands killer left hook. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Nonito Donaire Jr used his jab more in this fight. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Donaire pours on uppercuts as Prado turtles up. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

After the first minute of the second round Donaire had visibly staggered Prado. Cuts and swelling were visible in the Brazilian’s face. Referee Bruce McTavish was closely looking at Prado’s glassy eyes. Then came a series of uppercuts that stunned Prado and had him turtling up unable to ‘intelligently defend himself’. McTavish saw that Prado was just out on his feet getting hurt and immediately stopped the fight at the 2:16 mark of the second round. The win earned Donaire the vacant NABF Super Bantamweight Belt.

Prado’s face is cut and bloodied after barrage. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Donaire lands brutal body shot while Prado no longer intelligently defending himself. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

More than Nonito earning the victory it was the convincing fashion with which he won. The powerful stoppage convinced everyone that Donaire still has the hunger and what it takes to win against the elite fighters again.

Ref McTavish has seen enough & stops the fight at the 2:16 mark of the 2nd round. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Nonito Donaire Jr raises his hand in victory and earns vacant NABF Super Bantamweight Belt. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

This time however, winning isn’t about just titles or belts. It’s about something deeper, something he wants for younger people as an example. He said, “It’s the beginning of a mission. The mission coming here is not just becoming a world champion its inspiring people out there, inspiring kids to work hard to be better. Impossibility is out of the question. That’s the mission I’m fighting for. For somebody who was put down, somebody who hit rock bottom depression wasn’t something in my mind but to rise. That’s one thing I have being Filipino in my blood in my veins that I will always rise no matter what. Take me down 7 times and I will rise 8 times, a hundred times.”

Nonito Donaire Jr raises his hand in victory and earns vacant NABF Super Bantamweight Belt. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right: ABS CBN Head Integrated Sports Dino Laurena, ABS CBN Sports Consultant/Head of MNL Radio Div Peter Musngi, ALA Promotions Pres. & CEO Michael Aldeguer, Prince Albert Pagara (IBF Intercontinental Jr Featherweight Champ), Donnie Nietes (WBO World Jr Flyweight Champ), Nonito Donaire Jr (NABF Super Bantamweight Champ) and Coach/trainer Nonito Donaire Sr. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Sportscaster Ronnie Nathanielsz during the post fight press conference put the night in its proper historic perspective, “I think we need to congratulate ALA promotions and ABS CBN for putting together one of the greatest boxing cards in living memory. And they did it at the home of boxing the Araneta Coliseum. This is where Gabriel Flash Ellorde won his first World title on March 16, 1960. This is where Mohammed Ali fought Joe Frazier. And this is where Donnie Nietes and Nonito Donaire put their opponents to sleep.”

Donnie Nietes raises his hand in victory after he successfully defends his WBO World Jr Flyweight Belt for the 7th time. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Donnie Nietes in turn successfully defended his WBO World Jr. Flyweight title against Gilberto Parra via 9^th round TKO. Prince Albert Pagara Retained his IBF Inter-Continental Super bantamweight title against Rodolfo Hernandez via 5^th round TKO. Both Nietes and Donaire were elevated to the Flash Ellorde Hall of Fame last March 25.

Prince Albert Pagara successfully defends his IBF Intercontinental Jr Featherweight Belt. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The strong support of his countrymen and fighting at the SMART Araneta Coliseum gave Donaire a boost, “They gave me a lot of energy. I think that’s why I knocked this guy out early. We’re trying to plan 4-6 rounds figure him out from that point on but because of the chanting because of the energy, I could feel that energy level going to my body. I had a lot of strength I was willing to go out there make it exciting for everybody. The chant was something truly amazing.”

Donaire pours on uppercuts as Prado turtles up. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Ref Mctavish sees the damage suffered by Prado. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Asked to make an assessment of Prado he said, “Thing is you can always belong in the ring until you get caught with something good. One thing I knew he had a menacing jab. He was throwing the punches except that I was countering him with the overwhelming power I had over him. Then he succumbed to my power therefore he was discouraged. He could not make any move to recover. I just overwhelmed him with my power. We knew we had a lot of power. We knew this guy was a tough guy. My dad was saying be careful what punches he’ll throw. With being first we took away all his weapons. But we didn’t expect it for him to be down as fast as he did. You saw how tough he was. He didn’t go down.”

right: Prado smirks as ref Mctavish prepares to raise Nonito Donaire Jr’s hand. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

With his own performance, Nonito thought he could still improve, “I trained myself in defense and power. Strategy wise there were still something missing for me. There’s still that lack of follow up. I was only doing one punch at a time. I rate my performance probably 7 out of 10.”

Nonito Donaire Jr used his jab more in this fight. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The win though proved his current abilities, “It was a statement where Nonito Donaire is at. Meaning if I had trouble with him I wasn’t at that level. And you could see the difference in talent. There are prospects and up and coming guys and give everything that I have. I did show I was above that level. I think I’m ready to step up again which is the elite level. My power was just incredible if I put it up. But mainly I had a good jab. That’s something we’re gonna develop. Usually you could hit me because I’m right in front of you. So that’s one thing we’re very proud of tonight. I’m not getting hit and being effective at the same time. ”

Rexona Men was one of the many sponsors of PINOY PRIDE 30 D-DAY. Their endorser PBA star Marc Pingris was ringside catching all the action. He can also be seen in ads for other Unilever brands such as Master Facial Wash and was part of Master Game Face Challenge along with Chris Tiu. Photo by Jude Bautista

Donaire has expressed interest in fighting either WBC Super Bantamweight Champ Leo Sta. Cruz or WBA, WBO Super Bantam weight Champ Guillermo Rigondeaux. “We got to see where I’m at in terms of my ability. I feel we are still at the elite level and we can compete with guys like Rigondeux, Sta Cruz. So it depends on where I rank and it depends on what my manager and promoter are willing to do. For now next week come back to the gym and get ready for the next fight.”

3 champs from left: Nonito Donaire Jr (NABF Super Bantamweight Champ), Donnie Nietes (WBO World Jr Flyweight Champ) & Prince Albert Pagara (IBF Intercontinental Jr Featherweight Champ). PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

A fan takes selfie with Ring Announcer Ted Lerner. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

On a personal note it was the first time that wife Rachel was not able to accompany him for a fight. The couple is anticipating the birth of their second son. She had to stay home on doctor’s orders because of her condition: placenta previa. Although its not life threatening to mother or child, staying home was a precaution the doctors insisted on. Otherwise she would have been ringside just like Donaire’s previous fights.

Diane Castillejo interviews Nonito Donaire Jr after win. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

This was also the first time Nonito was away from his wife and child for more than a month. He felt a small measure of the difficulties according to him that millions of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) experience being away from their families. That’s why he dedicated this win for them along with soldiers who sacrifice so much for their loved ones.

Nonito confers w dad and Coach Nonito Donaire Sr. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Thankful for the chance to fight at SMART Araneta Coliseum he added, “Being in front of everyone grabe. Just the chant, kaya sabi ng father ko na dala ako sa chant nila. I love the fact this is my home. I love the fact nandito mga taong nagbigay sakin ng support, prayers. So gusto ko ibigay lahat. Kaya nung nagchant sila I wanted to give it all and I did.”

PINOY PRIDE 30 D-DAY was truly a proud day for the Philippines. It was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Nonito Donaire Jr’s deadly right hook lands; PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Ref Mctavish looks at Prado closely; PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Donaire’s killer left hook; PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Ref Mctavish separates fighters; PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Nonito Donaire Jr raises his hand in victory and earns vacant NABF Super Bantamweight Belt. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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People’s Champ Manny Pacquiao is joined by Nonito Donaire Jr. & Donnie Nietes in the Ellorde Hall of Fame and as WBC Diamond Belt holders. Rexona Men was one of the many sponsors of PINOY PRIDE 30 D-DAY. Their endorser PBA star Marc Pingris was ringside catching all the action. He can also be seen in ads for other Unilever brands such as Master Facial Wash and was part of Master Game Face Challenge along with Chris Tiu.

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Ronnie Nathanielsz moderates the post fight presscon. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Fans shoot Nonito w their i-phones and androids during post fight press con. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Nonito’s impersonator shadow boxes in front of his idol. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Impersonator cracks up Nonito after calling Nonito Sr his father. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Donaire poses w NABF Belt. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Donnie Nietes lands vicious overhand right and snaps Parra’s head back. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

Last November Donnie ‘Ahas’ Nietes knocked out Carlos Velarde in the 7^th round. With the win he surpassed the most legendary Filipino boxer of all time Gabriel Flash Ellorde as the longest reigning Filipino champ with 35 wins, 7 consecutive successful title defenses in 7 years.

Donnie Nietes raises his hand in victory after 10th rd TKO victory over Gilberto Parra. He successfully defends his WBO/IBF World Jr Flyweight Belt for the 7th time. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Nonito Donaire Jr raises his hand in victory and earns vacant NABF Super Bantamweight Belt. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

PINOY Pride 30 D-Dayheld at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015 yielded memorable victories for the Philippines. Nonito Donaire had a stunning 2^nd rd TKO victory over William Prado of Brazil. Prince Albert Pagara Retained his IBF Inter-Continental Super bantamweight title against Rodolfo Hernandez via 5^th round TKO. Both Nietes and Donaire were elevated to the Flash Ellorde Hall of Fame last March 25.

People’s Champ Manny Pacquiao is joined by Nonito Donaire Jr. & Donnie Nietes in the Ellorde Hall of Fame. Rexona Men was one of the many sponsors of PINOY PRIDE 30 D-DAY. Their endorser PBA star Marc Pingris was ringside catching all the action. He can also be seen in ads for other Unilever brands such as Master Facial Wash and was part of Master Game Face Challenge along with Chris Tiu.

Prince Albert Pagara successfully defends his IBF Intercontinental Jr Featherweight Belt. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Nietes became Boxer of the Year as WBO minimum weight champion in 2008, WBO Straw weight titlist in 2009 and WBO and IBF light flyweight champion from 2010 to 2014.

Angeline Quinto sang LUPANG HINIRANG perfectly. She was certainly younger and prettier than the Mexican representative who sang MEXICANOS, AL GRITO DE GUERRA. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Phil Star was able to interview Laura Ellorde about their criteria for Nietes’ Hall of Fame status, “The Elorde Hall of Fame is a distinction accorded to Boxer of the Year Awardees for seven straight years. We use seven consecutive years as the yardstick since Bai Elorde was world junior lightweight champion for seven consecutive years from 1960 to 1967.”

The thing is Donnie plans to go way beyond that record and make his own mark in the world of boxing. Nietes plans to extend that record to ten years as WBO World Jr. Flyweight Champion. Pinoy Pride 30 D-Day held at the historic SMART Araneta Coliseum cemented Nietes’ legacy in the hearts of millions of his compatriots.

Gilberto ‘Parrito’ Parra had an impressive 80% KO record. 17 of his 22 fights were KOs. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Gilberto ‘Parrito’ Parra of Sonora Mexico had a record of 19-2. He had a deadly 79% KO with 17. Although odds makers had Nietes ahead, one can never be too sure with the KO power and heart of a Mexican fighter.

from left: Parra clinches to stop the punishment. Nietes bobs & weaves under Parra’s jab, then slips to land the overhand right. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Trainer Edmond Villamor tells Donnie to be more patient. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

From the very first round Donnie Nietes dictated the pace. Donnie’s punches weren’t necessarily rapid fire but more accurate and heavy. Parra would only manage to answer once in a while and would feel the impact of Niete’s punches, thus causing him to backpedal. An indication of the power of Nietes and damage it caused was Parra clinching as early as the first round. In round 2, Nietes had clearly tagged Parra but would answer with several hard body shots of his own.

from left: Parra lands body shot, Nietes returns w right cross and Parra tries to run away from barrage of heavy punches. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Donnie Nietes lands brutal combo after combo. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The third round saw Parra using even more of his footwork although he’d try to answer back he’d only do so with punches one at a time. Nietes’ stronger combos had him winning the round. Parra really started getting hurt in the 4^th and 5^th rounds. Nietes’ quick jab snapped his head back staggering him. By the 5^th Parra was clinching more in an attempt to stop the barrage. You could also see the frustration building on Donnie having to contend with the now frequent clinches.

Parra clinches again after getting staggered. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Parra did come back in round 6 with hard body shots of his own. A deadly right straight and hook visibly shakes Parra in round 7. The inevitable happened in Round 8, a hard right hook by Nietes puts down Parra but got back on his feet. At the end of round 9 Parra’s face was swelling and bleeding from a cut on the right eyebrow. It was no surprise the ringside physician looked at his face and decided to stop the fight. Officially it was 10^th round TKO since Parra completed the 9^th but was stopped before the start of the 10^th.

8th round top left: Nietes lands right cross (top right:) Parra drops like a sack of potatoes. Bottom left: Ref Jack Reiss gives him ten count (Bottom right:) Reiss makes sure Parra can go on fighting. Physician stops the fight after 9th round to prevent further damage to Parra. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The strategy according to Nietes was to be more patient and be more tactical, “Sa lahat salamat sa suporta sa ALA promotion. First round pa lang sinabi ko kaya ko to. Pasensya talaga kelangan di dapat masyado i-pressure. Pinaplano talaga na wag biglain, dahan dahan lang.” (Thank you to ALA promotions right from the first round I knew I could win. I just need to be more patient not to pressure him too much and time my punches well.)

Dyan Castillejo interviews Donnie Nietes after 10th rd TKO victory over Gilberto Parra. He successfully defends his WBO/IBF World Jr Flyweight Belt for the 7th time. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Trainer Edmond Villamor tells Donnie to time the overhead right perfectly. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

When asked when he first hurt Parra Nietes said, “5 rounds siguro pwede ko na siyang tumbahin. Pinagalitan ako ni coach, relax ka muna hintayin mo yung timing. Pasensyoso muna nung 8-9 rounds tinamaan ko siya.” (5^th round I thought I could put him down. My coach told me to relax and wait. By the 8^th & 9^th rounds I got him).

from left: Nietes’ jab penetrates defense, Parra comes back w body shot. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Parra tries to fight back w left jab; PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Nietes also believes that Parra was a good fighter, “Oo magaling magaling, na hirapan lang ng konti. Na tamaan ko siya ng malakas”. (He’s skilled, it was hard at first. then I got him with a haymaker) The 2 most important punches that finished Parra according to him was the straight and overhand right.

from left: Nietes’ lands vicious body shot and (right) overhand right follows left hook. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Donnie Nietes lands brutal combo after combo. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Nietes’ Manager & ALA Promotion Pres. & CEO Michael Aldeguer also explained the upcoming fights, “Right now he has a scheduled mandatory fight July 4 with Francisco Rodriguez. He’s gotta go through that first. Its gonna be a tough fight. He’s a former world champion, went up in weight. After that we have to sit down with him. He’s been talking about Juan Estrada. We started to discuss with Zanfer Promotions. That’s the direction we want to go for Donnie. But he’s (Juan Estrada) overweight he has to go 4 pounds of his weight down. We need to study the team and see what’s best for Donnie. Right now there are big names out there. Ramon Gonzales is one of them. Right now he has a tough fight ahead that’s Francisco Rodriguez on July 4^th. We’ll go from there.”

from left: Prince Albert Pagara (IBF Intercontinental Jr Featherweight Champ),
& ALA Promotions Pres. & CEO Michael Aldeguer. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Fighting at SMART Araneta and co headlining with Donaire was special, “Siyempre masaya dito ginaganap at kasama ko si Nonito so talagang masayang masaya ang pakiramdam.”

from right: Prince Albert Pagara (IBF Intercontinental Jr Featherweight Champ), Donnie Nietes (WBO World Jr Flyweight Champ), Nonito Donaire Jr (NABF Super Bantamweight Champ) and Coach/trainer Nonito Donaire Sr. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Training for Nietes is always more brutal than the actual fight, “Grabe paghihirap ng training. So pagdating sa laban di na kami masyadong na hirapan. Pag training ang pinaka mahirap. Pag maintain ng weight. Grabe pagod namin, yon ang pinaka mahirap.” For the up and coming July 4^th fight with Francisco Rodriguez he will be going to the U.S. for special strength and conditioning to improve his speed and power.

PBA star Marc Pingris is mobbed by fans. Rexona Men was one of the many sponsors of PINOY PRIDE 30 D-DAY. Their endorser PBA star Marc Pingris was ringside catching all the action. He can also be seen in ads for other Unilever brands such as Master Facial Wash and was part of Master Game Face Challenge along with Chris Tiu. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Gilberto Parra lands jab; PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

From left: Donnie Nietes lands hard combo, which forces Parra to clinch once again. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Parra lands right straight round 9. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Nietes’ effective jab; PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

from left: Another heavy right hand lands for Nietes. Parra has no choice but to clinch to stop the onslaught. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Parra immediately clinches after knockdown. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Fans shoot victory pic w Donnie. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Nonito Donaire Jr (NABF Super Bantamweight Champ) & Donnie Nietes (WBO World Jr Flyweight Champ). PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from right: ABS CBN Head Integrated Sports Dino Laurena, ABS CBN Sports Consultant/Head of MNL Radio Div Peter Musngi and ALA Promotions Pres. & CEO Michael Aldeguer. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Buboy Villar & Direk Paul Soriano was ringside to promote their boxing film KID KULAFU showing April 15, 2015 in cinemas nationwide. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Donnie responds to questions during post fight press con. PINOY PRIDE 30 D-Day was held at the SMART Araneta Coliseum last March 28, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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From Mei Magsino fb page: https://www.facebook.com/mei.magsino?fref=nf

Written by

Jude Bautista

Seeing the headline on PDI woke me up in a terrible way, the broadsheet was one of the first things I saw seconds after getting up from bed. Former PDI correspondent Mei Magsino was shot dead less than 50 meters away from her apartment Monday noon April 13, 2015 in Bauan, Batangas. The photo with it was a lovely face of a woman who still had a lot to do and express taken from her family and loved ones way too soon at the age of 40.

From TAGA BAUAN BATANGAS KA KUNG…
https://www.facebook.com/groups/547223052056448/

The story noted that she had several investigative stories one of which was critical of Governor Sanchez in 2005. The Governor later on died of a heart attack in 2010. No one can really confirm who the perpetrators are as she had created a lot of enemies from her stories that often revealed the corruption and misdeeds of the powerful. The list is long of those who had motive and opportunity to have Magsino killed.

From BARAKO BATANGAS
https://www.facebook.com/groups/barakobatangas/

The article also mentioned she had moved on from being a journalist to a private herbal, health and wellness business with her partner. Although the writer in her, the crusader in her to fight for her beloved town of Bauan was a fire that could not be extinguished.

From TAGA BAUAN BATANGAS KA KUNG…
https://www.facebook.com/groups/547223052056448/

This is where social media gives someone like Mei even more power. Even though she’s not necessarily Kim Kardashian or Kanye or Bieber she had something to say and she said it well. Her commentary, sometimes just a few lines long would resonate with her town mates who saw and experienced the same things she wrote about. Her words resonated with people for the simple reason they were true.

From Mei Magsino fb page: https://www.facebook.com/mei.magsino?fref=nf

As a writer she also saw the importance of giving others of like mind the chance to express themselves as well. That’s why instead of creating just her own personal facebook or twitter account she opted to create a public group. This allows more users to air out their grievances in a free and open manner. If her concern was to write propaganda or disparage personalities then she could have had her own personal fb fan page where only she has control.

From TAGA BAUAN BATANGAS KA KUNG…
https://www.facebook.com/groups/547223052056448/

And so the facebook public groups she created: Barako Batangas and Taga Bauan Ka Kung… have earned thousands of likes and views. More importantly ordinary citizens and townsfolk started to write and post their own articulate and valid thoughts on these pages. The most significant posts are from Igme Hernandez and Chito Mandanas who writes in a very eloquent form of Tagalog that is indicative of their Batangas heritage. There’s no wonder that the page has become synonymous with the voice of Bauan residents. Different media are also shared by users such as music videos: ELEKSYON NA NAMAN by Freddie Aguilar. There’s also Pinoy rap video BAYANG DI MAGILIW by Hambog ng Sagpro which spoke about the same anger and frustration the residents of Bauan feel about their leaders: “PROUD AKONG PINOY pero kinahihiya ko Gobyerno ko”

A very cursory perusal of these pages and a ‘rival’ fb page will give anyone especially police authorities a good idea of who may have motive to assassinate Mei. A rival page called Keep Calm and Love Bauan was created after the success of the two pages above as a ‘response’. But because their concept of writing or communication is confined to poorly spelled, text shorthand, so the page hardly has any following or ‘likes’. The posts can hardly be considered as legitimate commentary but sound more like rants of an illiterate bent on maligning Mei Magsino personally. The rival page itself is also a very strong clue as to the kind of people that were offended with Mei’s two successful fb public groups.

From Mei Magsino fb page: https://www.facebook.com/mei.magsino?fref=nf

While none of us could really confirm who her killers are as of yet, what we can do as netizens, especially as Filipinos is to keep her causes alive. We should support people who want to find the truth in allegations of corruption against mayor Ryanh Dolor In Bauan. We should continue to ask the same questions that Mei Magsino was asking and shedding light on.

From Mei Magsino fb page: Sana joke din lang ang pagtakbo nya bilang presidente sa 2016! https://www.facebook.com/mei.magsino?fref=nf

By killing Mei the murderers did not silence her, they shone a light of national attention on what was supposed to be a local problem actually on everything she wrote about.

From TAGA BAUAN BATANGAS KA KUNG…
https://www.facebook.com/groups/547223052056448/

The causes she fought for in Bauan is a very clear reflection of what’s going on in the whole country: the over pricing of Makati City Hall hospitals and public schools, the acres of accumulated land and mansion of the Binays in Sta Rosa. If we don’t hold all of our leaders accountable NOW what’s going to happen to our country?

http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2015/04/14/1443616/ca-justices-got-p25-m-each-junjun-tro

This is what she wanted of us all. Don’t just like her pages or comments join the discussion, ask questions. Make your own research, seek justice, think and write truthfully. She had the courage to do so.

From TAGA BAUAN BATANGAS KA KUNG…
https://www.facebook.com/groups/547223052056448/

Let’s not make Mei Magsino just another statistic in the long line of journalists killed. Let’s hold PNoy accountable not just for THIS killing but also for all murders of journalists during his administration. It’s been 6 long years since the worst massacre of media people in one place: The Maguindanao Massacre. We should ask why this has not been a priority for his administration just like his failure to bring true and real governmental assistance to Yolanda victims in Tacloban.

From TAGA BAUAN BATANGAS KA KUNG…
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These are all questions we should think about and ask questions to even after we’ve tried to act and help in our private capacity. This was how Mei Magsino lived her life and this is the best way to honor her.

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BARAKO BATANGAS

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from: https://www.facebook.com/ironmanmkz Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

Written by

Jude Bautista

J.A.R.V.I.S (JUST A RATHER VERY INTELLIGENT SYSTEM): You have accessed the secret files of TONY STARK. Hulkbuster is the specially designed armor to combat The HULK. Their most anticipated battle can be seen on AVENGERS AGE OF ULTRON with a premiere night in Shang Cineplex, Shang Rila Plaza Mall, sponsored by CNN Philippines this April 22, 2015.

Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

Hulkbuster in Age of Ultron has enhanced flight and mobility. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

AVENGERS AGE OF ULTRON: what’s new

From the trailer we see that the new suit has enhanced speed, movement and agility. In spite of 11 feet in height and the heaviest add on to the ironman suit, it moves quickly in order to anticipate the HULK’s attacks. Flight was also improved to counter the HULK’s leaping abilities.

HULK is dragged through asphalt by Hulkbuster. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

While the breastplate armor itself is rated for impact resistance of 175 tons, just as in the Mark 42, components also break apart and reassemble themselves. This is to augment whatever damage the HULK is able to dish out. The left arm was severely damaged and was still able to function. After being stabbed by a whole stoplight pole, the arm twisted itself and was able to punch the Hulk that was behind the Hulkbuster armor.

top: Hulkbuster’s left arm twists 180 degrees to land a punch behind him and tosses HULK up in the air. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

Drone on standby with back up Hulkbuster parts. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

Fresh components from a nearby drone flew in to replace the damaged ones. The special drone floats above the fight scene far enough to be safe from the attack and yet near enough to send parts immediately. They had to do so in a matter of seconds as the HULK comes charging in for another attack.

After getting stabbed by traffic light, arm detaches and waits for components to reattach themselves. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

In spite of blast HULK still charges at Buster. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

HULK fights through pulse ray. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

This time the HULK is coming in with a ‘superman punch’, and Hulkbuster receives it with a punch of his own. Although his fist is reinforced with shock absorbers, the strength and power of the HULK may still defeat him. The shockwave from a hulk clap is able to cause explosions and enemies come flying off. What more from two fists colliding? Would it be the force of a nuclear explosive? The trailer goes black after that.

top left: arm detaches, components latch on and Hulkbuster gets ready for battle. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

Buster gets ready to punch back. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

Hulkbuster and HULK’s punch impact creates a powerful shockwave. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

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Hulkbuster Armor (Modular Add-on)

http://www.wikiwand.com/en/Iron_Man’s_armor

First Appearance: Iron Man (vol. 1) #304 (May 1994)

The Hulkbuster armor is a heavy-duty exo-frame (an add-on to the Mk. XI Modular Armor) designed for maximum strength amplification at the cost of reduced versatility and mobility. As its name suggests, it was specifically designed for hand-to-hand combat with the rampaging Hulk. The armor was rated with a lift (press) capacity of 170 tons. During its maiden run, the armor enabled Stark to hold his own in sustained physical combat with the Hulk

from comic book pages to life size Hulkbuster. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

History

http://marvel.wikia.com/Iron_Man_Armor_Model_14

It was used when Hulk confronted Iron Man (Tony Stark) over the production of gamma bombs when part of Stane International. The two met at a production plant. Stark acknowledged that Stane had conducted many illegal and unethical operations, but explained that this news was nothing more than a smear campaign. The two were able to settle the dispute and dismantle the plant.

HULK (Mark Ruffalo) ; Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

Capabilities

The armor’s magno-hydraulic pseudo-musculature provided greatly enhanced strength rated at 175 tons. Sensors were adapted to focus on detecting gamma radiation. It had impact-resistant carbon composite plating and an anchoring system. As it was an add-on, the systems of the Modular Armor were still functional.

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From http://ironmanarmory.com/hulkbusterarmor.html

“The biggest Stark armor built to date, this is suit is not an actual model, but an auxillary module for the Modular Armor, Model XII, Mark I. An exo-armor, built of impact-resistant carbon composites with a magno-hydraulic pseudomusclature rated at 175 tons, this suit fits on top of the Modular Armor–it is an extension that Iron Man, in full armor, climbs into and plugs in.”

Original Hulkbuster was greatly improved for Avengers 2. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

Robert Downey Jr is Tony Stark aka Iron Man. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

J.A.R.V.I.S (JUST A RATHER VERY INTELLIGENT SYSTEM): Unbeknownst to the world after their first battle Tony Stark was a changed man. There was always a lingering fear of having to battle the green monster yet again hence the continued improvements on Hulkbuster. As he re designed it, he would have nightmares screaming from the top of his lungs in the middle of the night, “ME SMASH HULKBUSTER!!”

HULK (Mark Ruffalo) wants to SMASH! Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

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HULK picks up car… Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

throws it at Hulkbuster… Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

…and gets the takedown! Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

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from http://www.superrobotmayhem.com/ Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

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Hulkbuster faces the HULK; Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

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Drone on standby with back up Hulkbuster parts. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

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Robert Downey Jr (Tony Stark) pisses off the HULK. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

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Hulkbuster fan art. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

HULK stabs Buster’s arm with traffic light. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

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HULK (Mark Ruffalo) wants to SMASH! Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

Hulkbuster in Age of Ultron has enhanced flight and mobility. Catch Avengers Age of Ultron at Newport Cinemas in Resort’s World, EASTWOOD City Mall, Lucky China Town Mall and Shang Rila Plaza mall.

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Sardo (Cesar Montano) set up Manny (Buboy Villar) for impromptu match in his yard. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Written by

Jude Bautista

They never really said who they were dozens of men with M16 rifles; they could have been CAFGU, the military or even the rebels. To the family of Manuel (Bon Andrew Lentejas) barely 5 years old all they knew was that they should be scared when they descended on their isolated nipa hut in the mountains. The children huddled together with their mother Dionisia (Alessandra De Rossi) as the strange man (Alvin Anson) approached her. He asked for food and politely wondered if she had seen other armed men in the area. Although their own resources were scarce, Dionisia readily gave them even the fish she had been cooking for her own brood.

Alvin Anson (CHDF Leader); after KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Everyone knows about the poverty in Manny Pacquiao’s childhood. But here in this latest biopic directed by Paul Soriano. We see that violence was something that surrounded him even as a child. Living in the remote areas of Southern Cotabato, the Pacquiao family was no stranger to armed conflict raging around them. They could have been one of the many people, victimized or lost their lives in the many battles between armed groups and the Philippine military (not unlike what happened with SAF 44 in Mamasapano).

Rosalio (Alex Medina) saves young Manuel (Buboy Villar). After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Extreme poverty, violence these are just a few of the things People’s champ Manny Pacquiao had to overcome as a child. The film’s story highlights the many unknown people that have aided, molded him into who he is today. The difference between KID KULAFU and other biopics that have already been produced is that it never shirked from the difficult and painful past of Manny. It actually sheds light in even more adversities that he and his family faced.

from left: Manny Pacquiao & Director Paul Soriano; After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Credit should be given to writer director Paul Soriano and screenwriter Froi Medina. They sought out the many details and experiences that shaped not just the Greatest Filipino fighter but possibly the Greatest Boxer of all time. These are the seminal experiences that built his body, strength and most of all his character.

from right: Dionisia (Alessandra De Rossi), Manuel (Buboy Villar), Ruel (Patrick Carrera) and Bobby (Niño Robert Bayungan). After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

That’s how KID KULAFU succeeds it brings us to that time and place when his life was hard. This is his humble roots and daily problems that millions of his countrymen experience to this day. That’s why he’s become a strong symbol of hard work, love of family, the Philippines and even faith in God.

Dionisia (Alessandra De Rossi); After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Struggling Parents: Alessandra De Rossi & Alex Medina

Rosalio (Alex Medina) for example has always been accused of being an absentee father to Manny and his brood in many articles. In this film however we see that he tried to be a responsible and even caring parent. Rosalio’s meager wage was never enough to provide for his family, which was a constant source of conflict.

Alex Medina is Rosalio. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Alessandra De Rossi’s performance as the very outspoken Dionisa was nothing less than powerful to the point of accurate realism. To call Aling Dionisia a nag would be an understatement. But considering the state they were in and her own efforts in providing for the family, you can hardly blame her for being that way too.

Before he could fight in the ring he had to fight for Aling Dionisia’s (Alessandra De Rossi) approval. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Due to their youth and long history of realistic portrayals in Cinemalaya you could see why Alex Medina and Alessandra were cast as Manny’s parents. Medina gave Rosalio an all too human face, especially when he could no longer bear the daily tirades and left the family. It wasn’t a justification for him leaving nor was it an attack on Dionisia but rather recognition of the dire situation they were in.

Dionisia beats Manuel (Buboy Villar) to make him stop boxing. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

One thing that Dionisia passed on to Manny in spite of all the poverty and ignorance was the gift of FAITH. She wanted him to be a priest, but even as a young boy helping feed his brood he knew that it was next to impossible. The Lord had other grand plans for him. So no matter the adversity Manny knew that the power of prayer was something he could rely on to overcome them.

Manuel (Buboy Villar) was knocked down on his first amateur fight but still had enough courage to get up and win the fight. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Buboy Villar’s Steely Determination

Buboy Villar is the perfect age for Manny in KID KULAFU. He was young enough to be boyish and old enough to throw and take punches. He was on the cusp of manhood trying to survive in a very harsh and unforgiving world. Buboy was also in a boxing film in Cinemalaya that featured kids made to fight sometimes to the death by an underground syndicate. It was entitled: CHILDREN’S SHOW directed by Roderick Cabrido and written by Ralston Jover. More important than the physical preparation for that role, is the mental state of desperation that pushes someone to get into boxing or underground fighting.

from right: Dizon (Jake Macapagal), Abner (Jomari Angeles) and Manuel (Buboy Villar). After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Buboy Villar (left) really looks like teenaged Manny Pacquiao (right). After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Buboy was actually a famous child star; he has a strong semblance to the Manny Pacquiao of that age, with pugilists’ nose and somewhat thick lips. His frame and body size is almost exact of the gaunt Pacquiao from old black and white photos at age 16. In spite of the not so intimidating physical features it’s the steely determination in the eyes that Buboy was able to replicate. The film rested on Buboy’s young shoulders and he more than lived up to expectations.

from left: Tio Sardo (Cesar Montano) was obsessed with boxing and was an early influence on the young Manuel (Buboy Villar). After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Boxing Coaches: Cesar Montano and Jake Macapagal

Sometimes there are people in your life who change you, who set you onto a path. Usually you don’t even know it while it’s happening, you only realize it looking back. Tio Sardo (Cesar Montano) is one of those people for Manny. He is Dionisia’s cousin and for Filipinos, at least one relative or extended family always have a strong influential role. Since Dionisia’s unofficial separation, she had to seek the help of her cousin in providing for her 4 growing kids: Isidra (Iris Sanchez), Manuel (Buboy Villar), Bobby (Niño Robert Bayungan) & Ruel (Patrick Carrera). Buboy Villar’s younger brother Christian Dave played the toddler aged Ruel.

Pacquiao brothers from right: Ruel (Patrick Carrera), Manuel (Buboy Villar) and Bobby (Niño Robert Bayungan) watch boxing intently on Tio Sardo’s TV. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Tio Sardo was obsessed with boxing. Manny’s first glimpse of the sport was through an old Betamax tape of an aging Mike Tyson about to be KO’d by Buster Douglas. Sardo’s passion was infectious and needless to say was fire in the eyes of an adolescent Manuel. Jake Macapagal’s role Dizon on the other hand was the very first real boxing coach whose son Abner (Jomari Angeles) became Manny’s teammate and close friend.

Tio Sardo (Cesar Montano) was obsessed with boxing and was an early influence on the young Manuel. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Given the limitations of running time we know that not all details could be included. Congressman Lito Atienza however is an undeniable figure and influencer in Manny’s life that was omitted. His youth boxing program as Manila mayor was one that saved him from the streets. Manny openly considers Atienza as a second father. Perhaps it could be rectified with the sequel.

Archi Adamos (Mang Ising); After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

The cast is actually composed of great character actors much loved on stage, TV, movies and the indie scene: Lou Veloso (Mang Polding), Ruby Ruiz (Midwife) Jess Evardone (Boxing Promoter), Garry Lim (Mang Boy), Flor Salanga (Miss Remy), Archi Adamos (Mang Ising), Leon Miguel (CHDF Soldier), and Mel Kimura (Mrs. Farcon).

Mang Boy (Garry Lim) is owner of the neighborhood Betamax Rental shop. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Lou Veloso (Mang Polding); After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Two distinguished film directors are also in this prestigious list, also as actors: Jun Urbano (Mang Emong) and Efren Reyes Jr. (Mang Ben).

Efren Reyes (Mang Ben); After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Efren Reyes Jr. (Mang Ben); After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

From his humble roots to one of the top endorsers in the country here’s an ad from Rexona Men. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rexona-Men/470852596347707?fref=ts

IF only to witness the greatness that is to be Manny Pacquiao, fans should see this film. The information is accurate and detailed enough to be a resource for all sports writers and biographers alike.

KID KULAFU will also be distributed to theaters in CANADA and U.S.. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Manny Pacquiao as The Fighter of the Decade giving thanks to God. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Watch a collection of Manny Pacquiao Training videos here: http://smart.com.ph/pages/sugodmanny?utm_source=AOD&utm_medium=display&utm_content=300x250&utm_campaign=Smart+Postpaid_SugodManny

Watch a collection of Manny Pacquiao Training videos here:
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Eugene (Khalil Ramos); After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Dizon (Jake Macapagal) trains Manuel (Buboy Villar). After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

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The film showed footage of the Kalilangan Festival- photo From ALIWAN 2013 #3 Gaile Anne Surriga of General Santos City (Kalilangan Festival). Catch the ALIWAN Fiesta 2015 from April 23-25, 2015 at the CCP Complex. Photo by Jude Bautista.

Two directors: Jun Urbano and Efren Reyes Jr. are part of this very prestigious cast as actors. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

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from left Abner (Jomari Angeles) and Baste (Igi Boy Flores). After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

KID KULAFU will also be distributed to theaters in CANADA and U.S.. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

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from left: Abner (Jomari Angeles) and Manuel (Buboy Villar) jog in the hills of Gen San. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

From his humble roots to one of the top endorsers in the country here’s an ad from Rexona Men. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rexona-Men/470852596347707?fref=ts

http://smart.com.ph/pages/sugodmanny?utm_source=AOD&utm_medium=display&utm_content=300×250&utm_campaign=Smart+Postpaid_SugodManny

The real Manny Pacquiao in his teens. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Digos teammate Abner (Jomari Angeles) also wins. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

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Manny (Buboy Villar) had to be part of the DIGOS team instead of his native Gen San. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Manuel (Buboy Villar) had a providential dream. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

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The whole town watched Manny (Buboy Villar) win his first international belt on TV. Manny defeated Chokchai Chockvivat to earn the OPBF Flyweight title. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

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1st victory in the amateurs by Manuel (Buboy Villar). After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

One of the many biblical quotations that have inspired Manny Pacquiao. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

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Buboy Villar captured Manny’s steely-eyed determination. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Tio Sardo (Cesar Montano) takes a swig of KULAFU. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

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from left: Eugene (Khalil Ramos) & Manuel (Buboy Villar); After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

Manny (Buboy Villar), Abner (Jomari Angeles) rode on top jeep to get from Gen San to Digos. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

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One of Manuel’s (Buboy Villar) early victories in Manila. After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

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The Pacquiao family; After KID KULAFU’s successful run in the Philippines it will also be released in the U.S. and Canada. Click on this link for cities and release dates: http://abscbnpr.com/untold-story-of-manny-pacquiao-revealed-in-kid-kulafu/

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Our corazon is with you Manny!

Rexona Men and the Filipino people stand with Manny Pacquiao through thick & thin. For more photos log on to: http://www.labanmanny.com/ , https://www.facebook.com/RexonaPH?fref=photo

Written by

Jude Bautista

“My head is for Mayweather but my corazon (points to his heart) is with Pacquiao.” That line is not from a crazed fan or a Filipino but from Boxing Hall of Fame inductee Oscar Dela Hoya. HBO is known for producing the famous 24/7 series before each mega fight following the drama of rival training camps. This time they decided to forego that and went with ‘The Legends Speak’ interviewing the people who know both Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao best: the five men who have stepped into the ring with both of them. All of them have more than made their mark in the sport of boxing: Oscar Dela Hoya was interviewed together with Shane Mosley and individually: Juan Manuel Marquez, Ricky Hatton and Miguel Cotto. Additional panel interviews were made with George Foreman, Lennox Lewis and Bernard Hopkins in the same feature.

from left: Training partners and friends Oscar Dela Hoya & Shane Mosley both fought Pacquiao & Mayweather. They were interviewed by Jim Lampley for The Legends Speak.

Pundits can analyze all they want but no one has a more credible take than members of the elite fraternity of fighters, especially those who stepped into the ring with Pacquiao and Mayweather. Not surprisingly George Foreman was the only one to predict a Pacquiao win. Foreman as a fighter had that similar powerful punches aggressively going for KOs like Pacquiao, which he believed would overpower Mayweather.

from left: Max Kellerman interviews George Foreman, Lennox Lewis and Bernard Hopkins.

They called it all 4 previous opponents chose Mayweather (Cotto abstained) including the most accurate description of Dela Hoya above. That’s essentially what happened. The consensus was if Mayweather’s style was imposed it would be boring and a more calculated fight. Floyd’s style of backpedalling and throwing the occasional counterpunch doesn’t inspire excitement. He throws punches not to hurt his opponent but more to outscore them.

Floyd Mayweather Jr. was screaming “I knew I won! I knew I won!” during the unanimous decision announcement.

IF Pacquiao’s style was imposed, if he were to win, there would have to be at least one knockdown. This usually happens from a barrage of punches that end up destroying and finishing his opponents.

Mayweather was clinching from the opening round.

Quality NOT Quantity

Mayweather stole the first round with his jabs but even then he was already clinching when cornered. In boxing fighters clinch or hang on to their opponents for several reasons. Foremost as a defensive move to immediately stop the other fighter from throwing punches. Its also used to rest, it allows both fighters to stop giving and taking punches AND even moving around.

Fil Am singer Gail Banawis performed Lupang Hinirang with THE WORD CHORALE composed of pastors from General Santos City. SMART communications was the only Pinoy Corporation to sponsor a spot on the canvas

Mayweather headlocks Pacquiao

In spite of the elite level of fitness, Mayweather was actually clinching throughout starting from the opening round. So that’s also an indication that Pacquiao’s punches were doing damage that early. I gave 2^nd and 3^rd rounds to Manny by virtue of the harder/ heavier punches landed not the quantity AND Floyd’s clinching.

Pacquiao lands hard straight left flush on Mayweather.

Floyd turtles up in the 4th round as Pacquiao punishes his body.

4^th & 6^th rounds to me were very obviously in favor of Pacquiao. Floyd actually turtled up meaning he was covering his head & body with gloves to block MP’s punches. Floyd turtled up at least twice in each round. This would mean that MP threw at least 5-6 punch combinations (even more). Assuming they were blocked on the head at least 2 or 3 of them landed flush in the body, which SHOULD be counted as points.

Floyd turtles up in the 4th round as Pacquiao’s left hand gets through

Mayweather lands hard right counter.

from left: Mayweather lands low blow and (right) his lip bleeds by the 7th round.

In my eyes, they alternated in taking rounds. Mayweather would score from clear counters. Sometimes Mayweather would score a rare lead left hook. Pacquiao would take rounds from stronger punches and left right hook combinations. As evidence of the greater damage caused Mayweather’s lip was bleeding by the 7^th round. Pacquiao’s face was clear of any swelling or cuts even after the 12^th round.

from left: Pac man did not have a single cut or swelling, (right) his family looks on.

Pacquiao lands hard straight right flush on Mayweather.

In spite of all the criticisms, I feel Manny did what he was supposed to. He used his jab, landed to the body and thrown a lot of combos. He was also able to use his footwork and dart in and out, although Floyd was sometimes able to negate this with head movement and CLINCHING. There were at least 4 times in separate rounds when Floyd was visibly hurt, staggered by punches.

Floyd turtles up in the 4th round as Pacquiao punishes his body.

At no time did any of Floyd’s punches visibly affect Manny. There’s no doubt Floyd landed more punches. There’s also no doubt that Pacquiao’s fewer punches caused MORE damage. That’s why on my own scorecard I actually had it in favor of Manny 7 rounds to 5: 115-113. Shane Mosley scored the fight the same way I did in favor of Pacquiao. Evander Holyfield, another heavyweight great echoed my scoring from a PDI article.

Pacquiao lands hard straight left flush on Mayweather.

The official judges, however, saw it differently all in favor of Mayweather. Glenn Feldman and Burt Clements gave Pacquiao 4 rounds 116-112 while Dave Moretti had a very unrealistic 118-110. Even father and coach Floyd Mayweather Sr. thought the fight was closer, “I told Floyd he needed to do a lot more because we know some judges are crooks.” in an article from PDI front page.

Michael Buffer introduced Pacquiao for the weigh ins while Jimmy Lennon Jr introduced Mayweather.

The judging / scorecards is not really all that surprising. Boxing is a sport where someone like Mayweather could backpedal for 12 rounds, throw a few counter punches, hardly damaging his opponents and STILL win the fight.

Shooting selfie w Jimmy Kimmel behind them, BOTH Coach Freddie Roach and Manny Pacquiao are endorsers of SAMSUNG Galaxy S6. Manny has also experienced virtual reality through SAMSUNG Gear VR.

The argument that he landed more punches is there. But clearly Mayweather came out more damaged from Pacquiao’s fewer punches landed. It’s also clear that Pacquiao threw more punches and was far more aggressive.

Rexona Men and the Filipino people stand with Manny Pacquiao through thick & thin. For more photos log on to: http://www.labanmanny.com/ , https://www.facebook.com/RexonaPH?fref=photo

Boxing’s Demise: MMA’s Rise

Dana White was very much into boxing way before he took over the UFC, currently the most successful MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) organization. By instituting and modifying the judging system and rules he was able to think of ways that rectified what’s wrong with boxing, which turns off fans. Mayweather is a perfect example of what’s wrong with the sport. His style of not engaging his opponent, running away more than attacking doesn’t excite fans. What was supposed to be the Fight of the Century became a cat and mouse game.

SMART communications was the only Pinoy Corporation to sponsor a spot on the canvas during the Fight of the Century.

Some changes are clearly seen; the smaller gloves make for harder punches. Fight analysts have attributed the higher KO rates in the UFC to this. Fewer rounds (5 mins long) compress the action and increases pace. 3 rounds are typical with 5 for main cards and championship fights.

Pacquiao lands hard straight right flush on Mayweather.

More important than these are the modifications to the scoring and judging system. ‘Octagon control’ is taken into account. One of the ways of defining Octagon control is ‘Effective aggressiveness means moving forward and landing a legal strike’. The rules also state: ‘Fighting area control is judged by determining who is dictating the pace, location and position of the bout.’ Essentially, White and the UFC created a system where backpedaling or running away from your opponent is discouraged.

Pacquiao lands left hook

The effect is there are far more exciting fights in the UFC where fighters face each other and engage. There are more knockouts; there are also submissions, which is also the equivalent of stoppages…all within 15 minutes.

You will always be our People’s Champ Manny!

Mayweather lands his jab counter but does not hurt Pacquiao.

The success and growth of the UFC has been astronomical with teams and TUF houses in Brazil, Canada, Australia and even China. In fact UFC 186 with Faber vs Edgar and Pinoy UFC fighter Mark Muñoz (vs Barnatt) will be on May 16 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Jamie Foxx sang Star Spangled Banner

The Fight of the Century between Pacquiao and Mayweather while earning record numbers in pay per view, ticket sales, disappointed fight fans. How exciting is it to watch a fighter use his footwork, bob and weave to elude punches? When Floyd did manage to land punches he hardly hurt MP. The supreme irony is that Floyd won the fight, preserved his unblemished record and yet people hate him now more than ever.

Floyd Mayweather Jr. was screaming “I knew I won! I knew I won!” during the unanimous decision announcement.

Throughout the weigh ins, the walk out and even AFTER the fight Floyd Mayweather Jr. was booed by fans. Oscar Dela Hoya wasn’t only speaking for himself or Filipinos but all fans around the world when he said, “My Corazon is with Pacquiao.”

Our corazon is with you Manny!

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Rexona Men and the Filipino people stand with Manny Pacquiao through thick & thin. For more photos log on to: http://www.labanmanny.com/ , https://www.facebook.com/RexonaPH?fref=photo

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Floyd turtles up in the 4th round as Pacquiao’s left hand gets through

Watch a collection of Manny Pacquiao Training videos here:
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You will always be our People’s Champ Manny!

Floyd Mayweather Jr during the weigh in

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Rexona Men and the Filipino people stand with Manny Pacquiao through thick & thin. For more photos log on to: http://www.labanmanny.com/ , https://www.facebook.com/RexonaPH?fref=photo

from left: Jamie Foxx sang Star spangled Banner and Fil Am singer Gail Banawis performed Lupang Hinirang with THE WORD CHORALE composed of pastors from General Santos City

Manny Pacquiao during the weigh in

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Rexona Men and the Filipino people stand with Manny Pacquiao through thick & thin. For more photos log on to: http://www.labanmanny.com/ , https://www.facebook.com/RexonaPH?fref=photo

Boxing legends were asked for their thoughts on the Fight of the Century in the HBO produced The Legends Speak.

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End game embrace between gladiators.

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Rexona Men and the Filipino people stand with Manny Pacquiao through thick & thin. For more photos log on to: http://www.labanmanny.com/ , https://www.facebook.com/RexonaPH?fref=photo

Watch a collection of Manny Pacquiao Training videos here:
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From his humble roots to one of the top endorsers in the country here’s an ad from Rexona Men. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rexona-Men/470852596347707?fref=ts

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Rexona Men and the Filipino people stand with Manny Pacquiao through thick & thin. For more photos log on to: http://www.labanmanny.com/ , https://www.facebook.com/RexonaPH?fref=photo

Manny praises Jesus Christ through his official Nike T Shirt.

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Rexona Men and the Filipino people stand with Manny Pacquiao through thick & thin. For more photos log on to: http://www.labanmanny.com/ , https://www.facebook.com/RexonaPH?fref=photo

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Cong. Imelda Marcos has a cameo appearance in MARIQUINA. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

Written and photographed

By Jude Bautista

There’s no easier way to convince an audience than a celebrity endorsement. No less than Imelda Marcos herself, possibly the world’s leading shoe connoisseur, gave her endorsement of fictional character Romeo Guevara. The role played by Ricky Davao is supposed to be one of the most respected shoemakers in Marikina. The former first Lady made a cameo appearance in the Marikina Shoe Museum some of which features her vast collection.

MARIQUINA cast from left: Ricky Davao (Romeo), Director Milo Socueco, Barbie Forteza (teen Imelda), Mylene Dizon (Imelda), Bing Pimentel (Tess) & NIÑO director Loy Arcenas. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The movie MARIQUINA starring Mylene Dizon, Ricky Davao and Cinemalaya Best Supporting actress Barbie Forteza is the opening film for the ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest. Quality films from around Asia will be screened at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. The fest is presented by Asia Society Philippines, Security Bank in partnership with the FDCP (Film Development Council of the Philippines) and Shangri-La Plaza.

One of the portraits of Imelda Marcos posing in front of Pres. Ferdinand Marcos’ portrait that can be seen in the Marikina Shoe Museum. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo from Official MARIQUINA fb page https://www.facebook.com/mariquinathemovie/timeline

13 films from across Asia are set to delight film enthusiasts this year with works from Australia, Indonesia, India, Thailand, Malaysia, South Korea, China and the Philippines. The other Filipino title in the fest is NIÑO directed by Loy Arcenas and has won Cinemalaya Best Supporting Actress (Shamaine Buencamino), Best Supporting Actor (Art Acuña) and Special Jury Prize.

from left: MARIQUINA Director Milo Sogueco, Shang Plaza GM & EVP Lala Fojas and Cinemalaya Best Supporting Actress Barbie Forteza. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

As one of the successful Cinemalaya entries last year MARIQUINA has recently been screened in Busan Intl Film Festival, Osaka Asian Film Festival, 65^th Berlin Intl Film Festival, San Diego Asian Film Festival (SDAFF), Hawaii Intl Film Festival. After the Asia On screen 2015 by Asia Society Phil MARIQUINA will also be screened in Yerba Buena Center for the Arts: New Filipino Cinema 2015 in June.

Congressman Imelda Marcos visits her collection at the opening of the Marikina Shoe Museum February 16, 2001. Photo from
http://www.news.com.au/world/years-of-neglect-have-destroyed-imelda-marcos-legendary-shoe-collection/story-fndir2ev-1226479773574

Casting the former first lady was not difficult for director Milo Sogueco. She has a true soft spot for shoes and Marikina, “You mention shoes, you mention Marikina, which is very close to her, when they were in power. If you talk to the old sapateros they would readily admit they used to gift her with shoes. That one is a fact. If you talk to the original old, sapateros, talagang binibigay nila sa Malacañang ang mga sapatos. It doesn’t amount to all her shoes, meron ding imported, meron mga local na galing sa Marikina.”

Ricky Davao plays master shoemaker Romeo Guevara. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo from Official MARIQUINA fb page https://www.facebook.com/mariquinathemovie/timeline

from right: Shang Rila Plaza Mktg. Div. Head Marline Dualan, Asia Society Philippines Executive Dir. Suyin Liu Lee, Shang Plaza Mktg officers Mimi Tecson and Nicole Villamor. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The shoes made in Marikina have long been held in high regard. Director Milo’s research proved this started way back. His main character’s last name was also based on true historical figures. “There came a time when the Spanish era then, the family of Kapitan Moy, the first settlers of Marikina were shoe makers. They belong to that family to that clan. Guevara ang apelyido ng isa sa pamilya na gumagawa sa Marikina.”

Che Ramos-Cosio is Leonor Guevara. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

Asked why he made the film Sogueco explained, “It was more of a personal thing. I just wanted to make a movie I could connect to. Years and years before I was trying to reconcile a personal affliction. I was having an identity crisis of how it is being a Filipino. Bakit may mali sa Pilipino? I was asking myself during those years. Maybe we have a problem with our own identity? Maybe we don’t know who we really are, our past and we haven’t reconciled with it also. That’s where it came from.”

from left: Milo Sogueco & Mylene Dizon. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The journey of the main character is a metaphor of the whole country, “In our movie, our heroine Imelda Guevara is played by Mylene Dizon and Barbie Forteza. Their character is like a lost soul trying to find itself. Yon yung philosophy ko behind it. Parang Pinoy rin (Like Filipinos) we need to find ourselves first before we can move on and be a better country.”

Mylene Dizon (Imelda Guevara). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

The Marikina Shoe Museum houses 700 pairs from Imelda Marcos personal collection. They also have shoes from celebrities, political figures on display. They even have what they call a Running Heel, a motorcycle made into a shape of a stiletto. Imelda admits to having over a thousand instead of the much-publicized 5,000 pairs. She’s also quoted as saying, “They went into my closets looking for skeletons, but thank God, all they found were shoes, beautiful shoes.”

Cong. Imelda Marcos’ shoe collection on display at the Marikina Shoe Mueseum. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo from Official MARIQUINA fb page https://www.facebook.com/mariquinathemovie/timeline

Cong. Imelda Marcos with Ricky Davao who plays master shoemaker Romeo Guevara. Photo was taken during MARIQUINA Cinemalaya gala night last August 2014 at the CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Barbie Forteza tweets in front of BRIC’S Milano Italian Travel Bags in East Atrium of Shang Mall. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

from right: Mylene Dizon and Bing Pimentel check out BRIC’S Milano Italian Travel Bags in Shang Plaza East Atrium. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Expat Phil writer Javelyn Ramos, Japan Foundation Prog. Coordinator Roland Samson, Shang Rila Plaza Mktg Nicole Villamor and Instituto Cervantes Deputy for Cultural Affairs Jose Fons. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Mylene Dizon (Imelda Guevara). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo from Official MARIQUINA fb page https://www.facebook.com/mariquinathemovie/timeline

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CNN Phil Reporter Patricia Fernandez & Actor/director Ricky Davao. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Barbie Forteza won a Cinemalaya Best Supporting Actress nod for her performance as teen Imelda Guevara. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

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from left: Asia Society Phil Executive Dir. Suyin Liu Lee, Pete Dela Fuente, Filmmaker Lino S. Cayetano and Asia Society Phil. Prog. Coordinator Jenny Rocket. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

left: Sofia Pablo (Grade school Imelda) chats with Erlinda Villalobos (Cora). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

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from left: Mylene Dizon (Imelda Guevara) with FDCP Head of Cinema Evaluation & Coordination Wilma Isleta. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Ricky Davao plays master shoemaker Romeo Guevara. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

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Ricky Davao (Romeo Guevara) and Che Ramos-Cosio. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo from Official MARIQUINA fb page https://www.facebook.com/mariquinathemovie/timeline

MARIQUINA cast from left: Director Milo Socueco, Mylene Dizon (Imelda), Bing Pimentel (Tess), Barbie Forteza (teen Imelda) & Ricky Davao (Romeo). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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Cong. Imelda Marcos has a cameo appearance in MARIQUINA. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

Che Ramos-Cosio is Leonor Guevara. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo from Official MARIQUINA fb page https://www.facebook.com/mariquinathemovie/timeline

Written

By Jude Bautista

Leonor (Che Ramos): Aalis nako dito. Romeo (Ricky Davao): Ano ba namang ka baliwan yan? Leonor: Seryoso ako Romeo. Sorry talaga pero hanggang dito na lang talaga kaya ko. Nandiyan naman si Tess para alagaan kayo. Romeo: Wag mo naman ako insultohin. Alam mong tapat ako sayo. Leonor: Wala kang ginawa Romeo. Hindi lang kita mahal. Lagi ko na lang kayo iniisip. Ngayon ako naman.

5th from left: Indian Amb. Lalduhthlana Ralte, from left: Asia Society Program Coordinator Jenny Rocket, Asia Society Phil Exec Dir. Suyin Liu Lee, Belgian Consul Jan Verbeeck, Shang Rila Plaza GM & EVP Lala Fojas, MARIQUINA cast: Mylene Dizon, Ricky Davao, Bing Pimentel, Barbie Forteza, Milo Sogueco and FDCP Proj Dev Officer Joaquin Cu-Unjieng. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The storyline of MARIQUINA is supposed to be about the great shoemaker Romeo Geuvara played by actor/director Ricky Davao. But it’s the women who surround him who exhibit true grit and strength of character. Even the cameo appearance was from Iron Butterfly herself, Imelda Marcos. Her reputation as a real life advocate of the Marikina shoe industry was utilized well in the story.

Cong. Imelda Marcos has a cameo appearance in MARIQUINA. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

Mylene Dizon (Imelda Guevara). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

from left: Bing Pimentel and Mylene Dizon at the East Atrium of Shang Plaza Mall. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The cast of MARIQUINA is replete with strong female characters. Che Ramos-Cosio plays the outwardly quiet and submissive young wife Leonor. Che has appeared in a great number of Cinemalaya and Cinema One productions. If her performance were any less sympathetic it would be difficult to understand why Leonor needed to find her own way in life. But because of her subtlety and skill viewers instead felt for her.

from right: Indian Amb. Lalduhthlana Ralte and Shang Rila Plaza GM & EVP Lala Fojas. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

MARIQUINA cast from left: Director Milo Sogueco, Mylene Dizon (Imelda), Bing Pimentel (Tess) & Ricky Davao (Romeo). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Director Milo Sogueco explained, “She needed to be honest to herself. In my movie there are no bad people and good people. Everyone is flawed just like in real life. It just takes a bit of understanding on the predicament of the person her situation. You mentioned Che (Leonor), her character she was very strong to do that. She was being strong for herself. If I’m going to stay here I’m going to die. So I choose to survive. I wana grow so that’s what she did.”

Mylene Dizon (Imelda Guevara). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

Mylene Dizon as the grown up version of Imelda Guevara displayed the jaded sometimes-distant figure trying to piece the whys in her life. The more introspective scenes are difficult to portray, especially since there’s not much dialogue. It’s Mylene’s maturity as an actress that allowed her to express sadness or the lack of it without words.

Dizon as revealed by Sogueco, originally wanted the part of Tess that went to Bing Pimentel. Tess is the shrewd business partner of Romeo Guevara that literally massages his ego. There’s so much more to her than the slutty, seductive and materialistic woman she seems to be. In spite of all that she becomes a positive influence in the teen Imelda Guevara’s life played by Barbie Forteza.

from left: NIÑO director Loy Arceñas with MARIQUINA actresses Bing Pimentel and Barbie Forteza. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Cinemalaya awardees from left: Nora Aunor (Best Actress-HUSTISYA, Director’s Showcase), Barbie Forteza (Best Supporting Actress-MARIQUINA, New Breed), Cris Villonco (Best Supporting Actress-HARI NG TONDO, Director’s Showcase) and Nicco Manalo (Best Supporting Actor-THE JANITOR, Director’s Showcase) The Cinemalaya X Awards was held last August 10, 2014 at the CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Barbie Forteza was herself a revelation. Director Milo had to overcome his prejudice of soaps during her auditions; she’s a popular star of GMA Network. “She had an audition in CCP and swept me off my feet. That time I met her I said this is the right choice. I ate all my words, swallowed my pride and said she’s the one. And it worked out so well because she’s a fantastic actress.”

Ricky Davao, was able to tap into his vast experience in theater and film both as actor and director. There had to be one male lead such as Davao where all these strong female characters could revolve around. Ricky was so effective it made the production go so smoothly, Sogueco said, “Ricky Davao is my one take, two take guy. Just like Mylene Dizon hey guys this is going to be a one take two take thing. You better give it your all. I won’t make you waste your tears or your anger or pain. I’m not gonna make you crazy. Let’s do this fast. You know what? They were able to deliver. If I have a perfect ensemble its not because of me its because they’re perfect for my movie.”

MARIQUINA director Milo Sogueco; ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

The story is credited to long time producer and writer Gay Ace Domingo, multi awarded screenwriter Henry Burgos (who often works with Brillante Mendoza and Bing Lao) and Milo Sogueco. The screenplay however is credited to Jerrold Tarrog who also happens to be in charge of Music/Soundtrack in this film. They successfully synthesized the history of the difficulties of the local shoe industry as told through the plight of one family.

from left Ricky Davao (Romeo), Barbie Forteza (Imelda) & Che Ramos-Cosio (Leonor). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

Both Philippine films MARIQUINA & NIÑO shown at the ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest are from Cinemalaya. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

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Cong. Imelda Marcos with Film Auteur Max Tessier. Photo was taken during MARIQUINA Cinemalaya gala night last August 2014 at the CCP. Photo by Jude Bautista

Dennis Padilla (Domeng) and Sofia Pablo (Grade school Imelda). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

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From left: Asia Society Philippines Executive Dir. Suyin Liu Lee and Emb. of Indonesia Social And Cultural Affairs Minister Counselor R. Toto Waspodo. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Ricky Davao (Romeo) & Sofia Pablo (Grade school Imelda). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo from Official MARIQUINA fb page https://www.facebook.com/mariquinathemovie/timeline

Official MARIQUINA fb page https://www.facebook.com/mariquinathemovie/timeline

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from left: Mylene Dizon & CNN Phil Reporter Patricia Fernandez. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Ricky Davao (Romeo) & Bing Pimentel (Tess). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo from Official MARIQUINA fb page https://www.facebook.com/mariquinathemovie/timeline

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Barbie Forteza won a Cinemalaya Best Supporting Actress nod for her performance as teen Imelda Guevara. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

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from left: Ricky Davao, Shang Rila Plaza GM & EVP Lala Fojas, Shang Rila Plaza Mktg. Div. Head Marline Dualan. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo by Jude Bautista

Bing Pimentel plays the seductive Tess in MARIQUINA. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo from Official MARIQUINA fb page https://www.facebook.com/mariquinathemovie/timeline

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from left: Mel Kimura (Tita Erlie) and Mylene Dizon (Imelda). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015. Photo from Official MARIQUINA fb page https://www.facebook.com/mariquinathemovie/timeline

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Ricky Davao plays master shoemaker Romeo Guevara. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

Sofia Pablo (Grade school Imelda); ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

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from left: Che Ramos-Cosio (Leonor) & Bing Pimentel (Tess). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

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from left: Ricky Davao (Romeo), Dennis Padilla (Domeng), Che Ramos-Cosio (Leonor) & Barbie Forteza (Imelda). ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

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Che Ramos-Cosio is Leonor Guevara. ASIA ON SCREEN 2015 film fest will run at the Shang Cineplex, Shangri-La Plaza Mall from May 8-12, 2015.

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from left: Bituin Escalante (Mely), Menchu Lauchengco Yulo (Madre De Dios) & Markki Stroem (Leading Man). Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

Written & Photographed

By Jude Bautista

When I first heard of mega musical KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY from playwright/illustrator Carlo Vergara, sex & sexual imagery was the last thing on anyone’s mind. Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015.

Puwersa Pilipinas from left: Jeff Flores (Bazooka Man), Giannina Ocampo (Nena Babushka), Menchu Lauchengco Yulo (Madre De Dios) & Caisa Borromeo (Windang Woman). Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

Menchu Lauchengco Yulo is one of the most beloved theater actresses but also among the senior members of the cast, was very much concerned with her mid riff revealing costume.

Menchu Lauchengco Yulo (Madre De Dios) & Jeff Flores (Bazooka Man). Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

By show time however, her abs were ripped. She credited the extra aerobic exercises before each rehearsal and play date. She also made sure not to eat a meal immediately before each performance.

Red Concepcion (Itak-Atak) & JC Santos (Jeryc Sans Rival); Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

What really convinced me that Leading Lady had a sexier look was one particular photo that I took of Red Concepcion as Itak-Atak. I’m sure the blocking was purely coincidental along with my lower angle from which I was shooting. I last saw Red in Resort’s World Manila’s production of Priscilla Queen of The Desert as the Gayest of Gays: Felicia. Here he is now playing a macho super villain Itak Atak.

Red Concepcion (Felicia) in PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT THE MUSICAL. It was a huge hit at the New Port Performing Arts Theater, Resort’s World Manila from November 27-December 7, 2014. Photo by Jude Bautista

Unintentional blocking /camera angle showed Red Concepcion (Itak Atak) tasting Kim Molina’s (Viva) generous bosom. Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

The photo I took which had a PURELY accidental angle, seemed like his mouth was on Kim Molina’s (Viva) generous bosom. I’m sure it was unintentional for ALL parties. But was sexy nevertheless. Itak Atak’s pose of holding his Itak directly at crotch level was not accidental at all though.

Red Concepcion (Itak-Atak) holds his sword suggestively. Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

Markki Stroem (Leading Man)& Bituin Escalante (Mely); Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

Of course everyone’s raving about Markki Stroem (Leading Man) and Bituin Escalante’s (Mely) intimate scenes as well. Theater and music fans who have been admiring Bito’s vocals and acting are so happy with her leading role for this musical. She’s equally gratified having a young hunk in Markki as her leading man.

Cast & Creative team foreground from right: Director Chris Martinez, Playwright Carlo Vergara, Set designer Tuxqs Rutaquio, Asst Musical Dir. Ejay Yatco, Sound Designer Jethro Joaquin, Producer Pertee Briñas and Musical Director/Composer Vincent De Jesus. Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

In the final group shot I caught Bito teasing co star Nar Cabico that she has hot scenes with Markki. The role also allowed Markki to show off his abs and muscled torso.

Menchu Lauchengco Yulo (Madre De Dios) & Markki Stroem (Leading Man). Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

If costumes don’t reveal skin they’re skin tight, body-hugging leather. KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY displays the penchant and skill of director Chris Martinez for humor. The wildly creative imagination of Set and Costume designer Tuxqs Rutaquio successfully brought to life characters created by Carlo Vergara.

from left: Caisa Borromeo (Windang Woman), Giannina Ocampo (Nena Babushka) and Chesko Rodriguez (Popoy Pusakal). Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

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Bituin Escalante (Mely); Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

Nar Cabico (Senyor Blangko) takes call as JC Santos (Jeryc Sans Rival) holds cell. Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

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from left: May Bayot, Red Nuestro (Marakas Marko), Jed Balsamo & Caisa Borromeo (Windang Woman). Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

Jeff Flores (Bazooka Man); Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

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Bituin Escalante (Mely) gives a massage to Markki Stroem (Leading Man). Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

MINT Professor Dennis Marasigan, Caisa Borromeo (Windang Woman), Bituin Escalante (Mely) & Writer Ren Aguila. Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

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Kim Molina (Viva) and Vince Lim (Henyotik). Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista

Menchu Lauchengco Yulo (Madre De Dios) & Kakki Teodoro (Computer); Dalanghita productions’ KUNG PAANO AKO NAGING LEADING LADY will run in PETA from May 9 to June 7, 2015. Photo By Jude Bautista