THE CITY BUZZ

SHAKEY'S V-LEAGUE SEASON 10 CHAMPION : ATENEO OR NU ?

2013-05-24T02:47:00.002-07:00

courtesy of interaksyon.com

Ateneo beat NU in three straight sets to lead the championship series, 1-0, of Shakey's V-League Season 10 first conference. Ateneo pulled the victory in front of a capacity crowd at Mall of Asia Arena.

NU now has its back against the wall. A win is a must for the Lady Bulldogs to extend the series. Dindin and Jaja Santiago must now exploit their height advantage over the Lady Eagles. Pablo, Urgas and Aganon must play exceptional as well. De Leon must set her teammates perfectly to earn those crucial points. Floor defense must be outstanding for NU to have a chance of levelling the series.

But more importantly, NU must know how to silence the largely pro-Ateneo crowd in game 2. NU must have a player who will get under the skin of her opponents because of her proud display of talent and skills. A player who will make sure that her opponents know who they are dealing with. It will be easier to beat Ateneo when its fans are quiet. In the vernacular, I think it is referred to as nganga. Kailangan nganga ang Ateneo at fans nito para manalo ang NU.

A POSSIBLE SOLUTION TO GINEBRA'S TITLE DROUGHT ?

2013-05-19T18:58:00.001-07:00

courtesy of slamonlineph.com

Alaska won the 2013 PBA Commissioner's Cup with 3 consecutive and convincing victories over crowd-favorite Ginebra during the championship series. Ginebra was in totally disarray during the whole series as it found itself down by 20 points or more in every game. Ginebra never came close to winning a single game in the championship series.

Despite having in its line-up two former MVP's, an explosive and athletic rookie and a point guard that may well be the best in the league today, Ginebra was not able to draw the needed points from its players. On the other hand, Alaska had no MVP's and even had 40 year olds in its roster. Yet, even Alaska's bench players were able to contribute to the team output. Ginebra too had tremendous support from its fans. Yet it was not able to translate the crowd support to victory.

The obvious reason for Ginebra's defeat was its coaching staff. Ginebra's head coach and his staff failed to come up with a game plan that would prove to be effective. After losing to Alaska in two previous meetings before the championship series, one would think that Coach Chua and his staff would come up with new ways to neutralize Alaska's running game and set plays. Sadly, Ginebra relied too much on individual plays that proved to be ineffective against Alaska's smothering defense. Coach Chua and his staff failed miserably in their assignment to come up with a winning formula for Ginebra.

Perhaps, it is time for San Miguel officials to seriously consider changing Ginebra's head coach and his staff. Not a single person in Ginebra's coaching staff can be considered a winning coach. Not one bench tactician of Ginebra has steered his team to multiple titles. Head Coach Alfrancis Chua relies too much on Ginebra's fans to motivate and inspire his player when it is the responsibility of the head coach and his staff to do so. Coach Alfrancis Chua and his staff must be shown the exit door for Ginebra to enter the winning circle once again.

COACH ALFRANCIS CHUA AND GINEBRA : A TRADITION OF MEDIOCRITY ?

2013-05-17T18:38:00.002-07:00

courtesy of AKTV

As expected, Ginebra once again lost terribly to Alaska. Alaska now leads the championship series, 2-0, and needs only one more victory to clinch the 2013 PBA Commissioner's Cup title.

While Ginebra Coach Alfrancis Chua was able to prevent a first quarter massacre, Alaska nonetheless was able to post 20 point leads several times in the third and fourth quarters. Like in game 1, Coach Chua did not know how to stop the onslaught that his team was experiencing. His import was a non-factor as Alaska put up a superb and solid defense on the floor. His local players were lost both on offense and defense. Alaska players were quick to the ball despite leading by so much while Ginebra players looked sluggish.

It is a slap on the face of Coach Chua that he is being outsmarted by a rookie coach. It seems that his years of experience as head coach in the PBA have not served him well. But then again, Coach Chua's record as head coach in the PBA is not impressive. In six years as PBA coach, he has only won a title once. It is really a wonder why San Miguel officials have decided to take in a less accomplished coach for Ginebra. As long as Ginebra's head coach is decided by personal ties and not by merit, Ginebra will continue to disappoint its millions of fans. And should the time come that fans start to abandon the team and transfer allegiance to other teams, San Miguel officials have only themselves to blame. The fans, after all, can only take so much heartbreak.

CAN COACH ALFRANCIS CHUA MAKE GINEBRA A CHAMPION ?

2013-05-15T19:40:00.003-07:00

Ginebra San Miguel suffered a terrible defeat to Alaska at the start of the championship series of the PBA Commisioners Cup. Alaska now leads 1-0 in the best-of-five championship series.

Interestingly, Alaska beat Ginebra in two previous encounters by double-digit margins. And the tradition continues in the championship series. Coach Chua should by now know that Coach Trillo has him figured out. But Coach Chua hardly had something new to offset the strategy of Coach Trillo. Ginebra import Vernon Macklin hardly touched the ball during the entire game. Ginebra's vaunted point guards did not perform to expectations. LA Tenorio did not issue a single assist. The ball stayed too long with Kerby Raymundo. And Coach Chua could only stare at the 26 point edge of Alaska at the end of the first quarter. Ginebra closed the first quarter with only six points.

The question now is whether Ginebra can bounce back after the humiliating defeat. I believe that it is Coach Chua who must do his assignment well for Ginebra to have a glimmer of a chance to bounce back. He must design plays that will maximize his import. He must instruct his guards to distribute the ball more effectively. And he must motivate all of his players to do their best even before stepping inside the playing court.

Clearly, game one was won by the better coach. Sadly, Ginebra's coach failed to respond to the challenge. But now is the time for Coach Chua to prove to everyone that he can devise a game plan that can resurrect Ginebra from its initial defeat.

IMPORTANCE OF THE TRUTH BEHIND JARED DILLINGER'S CAR ACCIDENT

2013-05-14T19:07:00.001-07:00

Talk and Text player and Smart-Gilas mainstay Jared Dillinger met a serious car accident last April 27, 2013. A report by Mariz Umali of GMA News reveals that the accident happened at four o'clock in the morning and a day before an important semifinal game between Talk and Text and Ginebra San Miguel. Interestingly, the report also reveals that Dillinger asked baranggay officials not to bring him to the nearest hospital after the accident. He instead asked to be brought home despite the serious injury that he sustained. No police report was made on the accident because Dillinger did not issue a statement. All these only fuel speculations that Dillinger was drunk driving when the accident happened..

To add to the confusion and uncertainty, Talk and Text seems to downplay the serious indiscretion of its player. Instead of clearing things up, Talk and Text evades the question of whether Dillinger was indeed highly intoxicated when the accident occurred. In its official statement, Talk and Text merely emphasizes the need of its player to undergo hip surgery and rest for a considerable amount of time.

PBA and Talk and Text fans deserve to know the truth and learn a valuable lesson or two from the accident. The truth may even save a life if acknowledged and put in proper perspective. Instead of highlighting a serious issue like drunk driving, Talk and Text officials seem more concerned with protecting their image and interests. Fans certainly do not deserve to be taken for a ride most specially when the ride is extremely dangerous.

CROSSROAD

2012-01-07T16:08:00.000-08:00

I am at a crossroad. I have come to a point in my life where I must decide what I want and need to do. Circumstances force me to take action and leave certain things behind.
The decision to make things things entails so many considerations and effort. Things are now different and new. There are more people who will now be greatly affected by my decisions and actions. While the prospects are daunting, I remain strong and positive through my faith in God. It is truly in hard times that One really strengthens his faith in God.
Whatever the consequences of my decisions and actions are, I will make sure that there will be no regrets. As far as I am concerned, I simply have to give it my best. I hate to look back and think of what could have been. Eventually, with God as my guide and strength, I know that all will work for the good of everyone.

ASTROBOY AND GOD-GIVEN TALENT

2011-12-04T16:16:00.000-08:00

For the past six weeks, I have been watching Astroboy compete in Talentadong Pinoy. Each week, I never fail to watch him hula hoop. After six consecutive weeks of impressive wins, Astroboy finally makes the Hall of Fame. He likewise makes it to the grand finals where he will have the chance to win a million pesos and earn the title of Ultimate Talentado.

But what impresses me the most about Astroboy is his knowledge of God as the ultimate talent-giver. In fact, Astroboy shares his talent to others for free. He conducts free hula hoop lessons in Quezon City Memorial Circle to all those who wish to learn the craft. In his video, he was asked what his most memorable moment in Talentadong Pinoy is. He answered that interacting with other contestants and building friendships are the things that he finds most memorable and valuable. Only a person anchored on God can manifest such humanity. And such, makes Astroboy a true winner and talentado in every sense of the word.

THE 7 NEW WONDERS OF THE WORLD SCAM : WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A FILIPINO

2011-11-21T20:06:00.000-08:00

I am being accused of being anti-Filipino by the people of Task Force Puerto Princesa for investigating the sham and scam that is the 7 New Wonders of the World. I was told to simply be happy that the underground river made it to the list and not bring down the country's pride with an investigation that aims to expose the anomalies in the 7 New Wonders of the World.

I simply do not see how conducting an investigation makes me anti-Filipino. Being a Filipino, it pains me to see the country being victimized and swindled of millions of hard-earned money. It is the Filipino in me that encourages me to open the eyes of my countrymen that their hard-earned money went to the pockets of the organizers through the text votes that they sent. A total of 24M text votes were sent in by Filipinos to make the underground river win. The 24M text votes represent 60M pesos of hard-earned money down the drain and into the pockets of those unscrupulous organizers.

I refuse to believe that Filipinos are incredibly naive and stupid to allow such a scam and sham to go unnoticed . Indonesia and Maldives have withdrawn from the competition as these countries have discovered the sham and scam that is the 7 New Wonders of the World. I certainly expect the Philippines to do the same to salvage its dignity and pride as an intelligent and principled nation.

DID FILIPINOS SPEND 2.5B PESOS FOR THE 7 NEW WONDERS OF THE WORLD SCAM ?

2011-11-17T19:48:00.000-08:00

During the grand launch of Puerto Princesa for 7 New Wonders of the World, no less than Philippine President Noynoy Aquino encouraged his countrymen to vote for the Palawan heritage site. Citing the perceived economic benefits that would result with the distinction, President Noynoy encouraged and advised Filipinos to put in 1 billion text votes for the underground river to win. In a country where 2 billion text messages are generated in a day, the president told Filipinos that 1 billion votes would simply be half a day's work.

Now that the Puerto Princesa underground river has made the list, it is safe to assume that 1 billion text votes were indeed delivered by the Filipino people. At 2.50 pesos per text vote, the total cost of 1 billion text votes is a staggering 2.5B pesos or more than 58M US dollars. For a third world country like the Philippines, 2.5B pesos is certainly a lot of money that could have been put to better use than being channeled to an international scam like the 7 New Wonders of the World.

With 2.5B pesos down the drain and the shocking revelation that the 7 New Wonders is a scam, the Philippines most probably has become the biggest victim of an international scam in internet history.

7 NEW WONDERS OF THE WORLD SCAM : WHAT NOW, PHILIPPINES ?

2011-11-17T00:09:00.000-08:00

Indonesia and Maldives have withdrawn from the search for the 7 New Wonders of the World after experiencing various forms of deception and money-grabbing schemes from the organizers. The experiences of these two finalists only confirm the sham and scam that the whole search truly is. The big question left for the Philippines is whether to follow the footsteps of Indonesia and Maldives after the anomalies have been revealed and confirmed.

I believe that it is best for the Philippines to simply withdraw from the search. The controversial and highly anomalous nature of the search will not do the country any good. The result of the search, in the first place, does not have credibility much less impact and significance in the international community. To continue to uphold the belief that the result of the search will boost tourism and help the economy is a big mistake.

I certainly hope that the Philippines salvages its pride even after being fooled into participating all-out in the 7 New Wonders of the World. I hope that the country recovers its dignity and pride by saying enough is enough to an international scam like the sham 7 New Wonders of the World.

THE 7 NEW WONDERS OF THE WORLD : HOW FILIPINOS WERE FOOLED

2011-11-15T20:13:00.000-08:00

One things is for sure. The 7 New Wonders is a scam. As early as 2007, reports have been published all over the world regarding the scam by Bernie Weber of the New Open World Corporation, the company behind the 7 New Wonders.

What I find shocking and incredulous is that the Philippines and its top officials fell victims to such a pathetic money-grabbing scheme. Despite of what happened in India, Maldives, Indonesia and several other countries, the Philippines with its top officials still fell for the scam, hook, line and sinker. Even UNESCO issued a disclaimer with regards to the 7 New Wonders of the World to highlight its illegitimacy. Why then did the Philippines become an unwitting victim to such a pathetic scam ?

I think the scam worked in the Philippines primarily because Filipinos love to vote through texting. After all, the Philippines is the texting capital of the world. Second, the scam gave Filipinos the opportunity to show their sense of nationalism. Voting for the underground river in Palawan gives Filipinos the feeling that they are doing something noble and heroic for their country. Third, no less than the president and his cabinet members encouraged Filipinos to vote for the underground river as a new world wonder. The legitimacy of the whole scam was somehow validated with the endorsement of no less than the president of the country. Lastly, the tremendous desire of Filipinos to win the 25M pesos offered by the good mayor of Palawan by simply casting a vote made the scam such a magnet for millions of greedy Filipinos.

At this point, it is interesting to note that while the underground river in Palawan has made the list, it is not yet assured of being officially named one of the 7 new world wonders. The distinction is still uncertain. Most probably, the honor will be accorded to the Palawan heritage site once government officials cough up the money that the organizers will demand. Pathetic, indeed !

SURVIVOR PHILIPPINES CELEBRITY DOUBLES : TWICE THE EXCITEMENT AND DRAMA

2011-11-14T16:58:00.000-08:00

I watched the first episode of Survivor Philippines Celebrity Doubles last night. And judging from the first episode alone, I know that this edition will be more entertaining and more exciting than the previous edition.

While athletic celebrities like John and Arnold of the Philippine Volcano players and cousins Arthur and Carlo have the advantage in performing the different tasks, other celebrities might just spring surprises. I certainly did not expect the team of Isabel Granada and Chuckie Dreyfus to land second in finding the immunity bracelet. The all-important alliances too can determine who stays long in the show. In the initial telecast, KC Montero and Geneva lost no time in securing an alliance with the Volcano players. I am sure more alliances will be made as the show progresses.

But what I can't wait for are the crazy stuff that these celebrities will do when pushed to the limit. Maria Isabel Lopez, Jackie Forster and Geneva Cruz are ticking time bombs waiting to explode at the slightest provocation. I am glad that the comedy pair of Betong and Maey are there to highlight the crazy ways of their fellow survivors. I expect the comedy duo to make fun of the celebrities' crazy and hysterical ways.

This early, I predict that the rugby players will make a strong showing. The same holds true with the cousin pair of Arthur Solinap and Carlo Gonzales. They are all physically capable of doing the tasks well. But in Survivor, the one who is wise usually ends up the big winner. The one who keeps a low profile in the first stages of the game almost always ends up the big winner. So, Stef Prescott, Gino Dela Pena, Mara Yokohama, Filo Cucueco, Chuckie Dreyfus or Isabel Granada might just do well in the endgame to bag the P3 M cash prize.

While it is too early at this stage to accurately predict who will emerge winner, I expect the viewers to win big with the excitement that Survivor Philippines Celebrity Doubles will provide. I will definitely wait for the crazy stuff that these celebrities will do every night to keep the show highly entertaining.

OPEN LETTER TO MO, MOJO, GRACE AND ANGELICOPTER

2011-11-08T17:40:00.000-08:00

Dear Mo, Mojo, Grace and Angelicopter,

It pains me to hear you guys fight on air. While I do know that your show's appeal lies in its spontaneity and irreverence, fighting on air is definitely not something that I like. Mo, I know that you really love the show. So, I understand that you want it to be the best that it can possibly be. No one can question your dedication to the show. But Mojo, Grace and Angelicopter love the show as well and try their best to keep it interesting and entertaining. They do their fair share of keeping the show fun to listen to.

I know that there was a time that you were really down, Mo. And I know that during that time, Mojo, Grace and Angelicopter were there to make you feel that you are loved. Whenever you are upset because Mojo, Grace and Angelicopter are not doing the things that you want them to do, just remember the love that they offer and share with you in every episode of your show. Perhaps then, you will find it in your heart to be more understanding and forgiving.

Just keep the love going, Mo.

Yours,

Eric

EL GAMMA PENUMBRA : PHILIPPINE TALENT AS ITS BEST

2011-10-24T00:48:00.000-07:00

El Gamma Penumbra performed a well-crafted silhouette act in Pilipinas Got Talent finals night. While the other finalists turned in great performances as well, El Gamma Penumbra did a lot more. The group showed the creativity, skill and nationalism that lie within the very soul of Filipinos. I am just shocked that the group failed to win the grand prize. As always, Filipinos fail to recognize true talent. I just hope that the defeat of El Gamma Penumbra does not dampen the spirits of other Filipinos to come up with well-thought of and uniquely Filipino performances that truly showcase the best of Filipino talent. After all, true talent cannot be denied nor go unnoticed.

ANG PAGKAKAIBIGAN NA NAGMULA SA BLOG

2011-10-03T01:56:00.000-07:00

Nagkita-kita kami nina Jay at Tolits kaninang tanghali sa Makati. Lumuyas ng Makati si Tolits upang kumuha ng exam sa inaaplyan niyang trabaho. Sinamahan naman siya ni Jay dahil hindi alam ni Tolits ang pasikot-sikot sa Makati.
Nakakapagtakang isipin na una pa lamang naming pagkikitang tatlo kanina. Matagal ko nang kakilala si Tolits dahil sa blog. Kapwa namin binabasa ang kanya-kanyang blog. Si Jay rin ay isang blogger. Subalit ngayon lang kami nagkaroon lahat ng pagkakataon na makaharap at makausap ang isa't-isa.
Ang lalong nakakapagtaka ay ang pakiramdam na parang matagal na kaming magkakaibigan at magkakakilala. Marahil, dala ito ng aming mga blog. Sa blog, madalas naibubuhos ang tunay na nararamdaman at saloobin. Ang saya at lungkot ay karaniwang nababasa at tuluyang nararamdaman sa pagbabasa ng blog ng isang tao. Sa bawat sulat na inilalathala, kasama nito ang buhay at puso ng isang blogger. Nagulat ako dahil nung nagkaharap-harap kaming mga bloggers, naging madali ang usapan. Naging madali rin makipagpalagayan ng loob. At dun ko naisip na marami pa palang mga mababait na tao na handang ibahagi ang kanilang buhay sa blog man o sa totoong buhay.
Naging masaya ang aming pagkikita nina Jay at Tolits. Sana, maulit muli ang saya na dala ng aming pagkakaibigan na nagsimula lamang sa blog. At sana sa tulong na rin ng aming mga blog, lalo namin makilala ang isa't-isa upang mas tumibay ang aming pagkakaibigan.

MATTHEW SARINO : THE MAN BEHIND THE LEGACY

2011-09-14T07:46:00.000-07:00

Matthew Sarino is the president of PRISGENE International Incorporated. Established in 2010, PRISGENE International Incorporated counts PRISGENE Facility Services Professional Incorporated as its predecessor. PRISGENE International Incorporated, in partnership with MPR Indonesia, currently offers asset, support and auxilliary services, making it a complete management institution. In an exclusive interview, Mr. Sarino reveals the hard work involved in running one's own company.

1. Why did you decide to start your own company ?

It really wasn’t part of my “life plan” to have my own business. I was deciding if I wanted to be a lawyer or a writer so I went for a Bachelor’s Degree that would help me achieve that goal, AB Literature at De La Salle University.

Unfortunately, while I was in college, both my parents passed away and left behind the family business which they started in 1960. With my five elder siblings being well into their own careers, they decided that the business be given to me to operate. The family business was the FIRST EVER franchise from the U.S. in the Philippines and at that time had been in operation for a little over 40 years which had sent me and my five siblings to elementary and high school at the prestigious International School of Manila. So, it was a matter of keeping the legacy of my parents alive which was more important to me rather than taking it to the next level. Thus, a few years after taking over the helm of Duraclean, I set up a new company with the brand PRISGENE®, in keeping with my desire to sustain the legacy of my parents, Priscila and Generoso (Jr.) Sarino.

My parents’ company, Duraclean, a specialized cleaning company, had quite a number of prestigious clients, such as the United States Embassy, the Ambassador’s residence, the first generation of the Ayalas, Sorianos, Locsins, and their various companies. In the early ‘70s when Architect Leandro Locsin was commissioned by then First Lady Imelda Marcos to design and build the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), he agreed, only on the condition that Duraclean would be contracted to maintain the massive amounts of carpeting and upholstered furniture.

When I took over the business, I had my fair share of notable clients as well such as Philippine Airlines, Philippine National Bank, and San Miguel Corporation.

2. How long has your company been in existence?

The first company under the PRISGENE® banner was established in 1995, under the corporate name PRISGENE Commercial Maintenance Group.

3. What is the hardest part in starting your own company ?

I think the hardest part in starting my own company was the fact that we were an unknown group, a “new kid on the block” so to speak. It was, and still is, a matter of letting our clients and prospective clients know the history behind the company.

4. What is the best thing about managing your own company ?

I feel the best thing about managing my own company is not really that I am my own boss, which is not really the case, but rather the excitement of being able to set goals and targets for the entire company that I can clearly see and visualize. I can therefore anticipate and plan out what I and the rest of my team need to do to make these visions a reality. This is unlike being employed, where one is relegated to supporting the visions and goals of company heads. Your duties and responsibilities are already been mapped out for you. I would compare it to being in a car. As the head of my own company, I am the driver, in full control. As an employee, at best, I would be “riding shotgun” where I can see the goals and targets as clearly as the driver, but do not necessarily have full control of the vehicle.

5. From a financial point of view, is it better to start your own company than work for a multinational company ?

My answer to this question is both yes and no. Yes, because the potential financial gains being a shareholder of a company allow you to take a portion of the profits that the company makes, which of course is additional income over and above the regular salary. For most startup businesses, salaries of the owners are usually kept low to minimize operational expense, and then compensated through their share in the profits of the company. In short, the POTENTIAL to earn is greater with a self-owned company. But of course, let’s not forget the additional risks involved in it as well.

The second part of my answer is no, because it takes away the “guaranteed” regular income as an employee. Given that you have used being employed by a multinational company as a point of comparison, the regular income that one will sacrifice in setting up his own business is quite substantial. Over and above that, the only chances of increasing your income is in the hands of another, normally an immediate superior, who recommends that you be “awarded” a pay increase or a bonus of sorts for your hard work. I’m not saying this is a bad thing. It just all depends on what are one’s personal goals and visions. On the up side, being employed minimizes your personal financial risks.

6. I heard that some of your business associates committed acts that forced you to end your business relationship with them. How has the breakup with your business associates affected the way you run the company now?

Honestly, there have been no changes in the way I run the business. Ever since I went into business, I have always ensured that my personal values prevail over any financial consideration. And that has always been something that I have tried to instil in everyone in the company, no exceptions. What are these values? Three simple words: HONESTY, INTEGRITY, and PERSEVERANCE. These values are what became my basis for ending the business relationship with my former associates.

7. What gives you the greatest satisfaction in managing your own company?

I haven’t been given that “greatest satisfaction” yet. Knowing that I am well on my way to getting that “greatest satisfaction” is satisfaction in itself. Now, if your question were “What do you enjoy about managing your own company?”, my answer would be the opportunity to interact with people at all economic levels – from our service workers to admin staff, from contractors to the Board of Directors of our clients.

8. What are you most proud of with PRISGENE International Incorporated?

I have a lot to be proud of with the company. But the two things that come to mind are that 1.) It bears the name of my parents who have provided me with the education and the personal values which have made me, and 2.) It is now a corporation with a fairly large Indonesian company as its major stakeholder. And because of this, we are now able to offer more property and facilities management solutions to our clients and consequently provide faster and better results than the other players in the industry. If you noticed, I have avoided using the word “competitor”. This is simply because PRISGENE International actively seeks opportunities for strategic alignments with the other industry players so that we are able to leverage on each others strengths and still have both groups benefit from the arrangement.

9. What advice can you give those who are planning to put up their own companies ?

I would assume that anyone who would want to put up their own company would already know the specific details such as the business model, target market, and financials. What I can say is that although these are the basics of what the intended business will be, it is not enough to know all these alone. One must have the passion, perseverance, and the confidence to see the business through its early stages, as starting a business is apparently like giving birth to and raising a child. It will be painful (financial and otherwise) in the beginning, but depending on how you nurture it during its growing years, it will later on give you that sense of pride and joy that makes all the initial hardship well worth the effort.

2011 MISS UNIVERSE : MISS PHILIPPINES AT HER BEST

2011-09-13T06:47:00.000-07:00

Miss Philippines, Chancey Supsup, did the country proud by performing well at the Miss Universe Pageant. From the swimsuit to the evening gown competitions, Miss Philippines showed the whole world that she can compete with the best. In the final question and answer portion, Supsup brilliantly articulated the Filipinos' concept of faith and God. Unfortunately, she merely ended up third-runner up.

But whether she ended up last or Miss Universe, for me, is irrelevant. The fact that she gave her best in the pageant and presented herself as a true Filipino make her, for me, a winner. At times when Filipinos are ashamed to be Filipinos, Miss Philippines dared to be in her true native form. That is, an intelligent full-bloodied Filipino who places God above all else.

It puzzles me a bit that people are dissatisfied with the results. Perhaps, people in Manila expected her to win the crown with her brilliant answer. But beauty is relative. What I think Filipinos must learn is to see their beauty in their own terms. That Filipinos need not validate their beauty with the approval of others. If Filipinos learn to define true beauty in their own terms, they will discover that they belong truly belong to a beautiful race. As Descartes aptly puts it, " I think, therefore I am. "

TRAMIGO T22 : PROTECTION AND EFFICIENCY WITHIN REACH

2011-09-09T02:10:00.000-07:00

My good friend and I were chatting when he mentioned a product that he has decided to distribute locally. Expecting the product to be non-essential and expensive, I nonetheless listened as my friend delivered his sales pitch. To my great surprise, it turns out that the product that he believes in so much is extremely relevant to the times and very affordable.

Tramigo T22 is a device that allows a vehicle to be monitored as it travels. Together with a software and a data-registering device, a car or even a motorcycle can be located and monitored anywhere in the country using Tramigo T22. Tracking is made easy with the use of a PC or mobile phone to see the location and path of a running vehicle. Tramigo T22 best provides protection against carnapping and kidnapping with its tracking system. A stolen vehicle can be traced and eventually recovered as location data can be obtained by its owner with Tramigo T22. A kidnapper who decides to use the car of his victim can easily be followed with Tramigo T22. Rescue operations can be performed with greater success because of the location data generated by Tramigo T22 and its software.

Tramigo T22 also serves other purposes. For government agencies, aside from keeping V.I.P guests safe, efficient use of government vehicles can be assured with the use of Tramigo T22. Personal use of government vehicles can be prevented through proper monitoring using T22. In the medical field, ambulances can be dispatched quickly and efficiently with the help of T22. Ambulances nearest to the location of a patient can be dispatched accordingly involving the least amount of time. In Malaysia, Tramigo T22 is used to monitor construction machines that are sent to construction sites. T22 is used to prevent sudden disappearances of construction machines and at the same time, assure that the machines are working in the proper construction sites.

I truly owe my friend an apology for initially misjudging his business decision to include Tramigo T22 in his company's product line. He indeed has a product that serves a good purpose. More importantly, my friend makes an effort to make Tramigo T22 very affordable. I am proud to say that my friend provides protection and security to life, property and services at a price that everyone can afford with Tramigo T22.

For inquiries, one may call Prisgene International Incorporated at 8463154, 8468342 or 8818210. My friend will be happy to assist anyone who wishes to know more about Tramigo T22 and its various applications. Prisgene International Incorporated is located at Suite 801 Richville Corporate Tower, Investment Drive, Madrigal Business Park, Alabang, Muntinlupa City.

THE CLOSURE THAT MR. LAURO VIZCONDE NEEDED

2011-07-02T06:50:00.001-07:00

No less than DOJ Secretary Leila de Lima and NBI declared that Hubert Webb did not leave the country in 1991. The declaration effectively destroys the alibi of Hubert Webb that he was in the States the day the crime took place.

For Mr. Lauro Vizconde, DOJ Secretary de Lima's declaration finally brings closure to his seemingly unending search for justice. While the declaration will not put Hubert Webb and his group back in jail, it nonetheless confirms what Mr. Vizconde knew and believed all along. That is, Hubert Webb and his group committed the gruesome crime. And the thought that the truth has been revealed and confirmed in front of the Filipino people gives Mr. Vizconde the vindication that has long eluded him.

I am just so happy for Mr. Vizconde as he finally gets to move on. His victory, while incomplete, is such a source of inspiration. It is a great reminder that while justice may be denied by men, God works in mysterious ways to bring the truth out. And the truth truly sets people free.

U.S. DRAGON BOAT TEAM HEAD COACH ROBERT MCNAMARA ON THE PHILIPPINE DRAGON BOAT TEAM CRISIS

2011-06-20T21:02:00.000-07:00

D.r Robert McNamara is the head coach of the U.S. dragon boat team. He is likewise the chairman of the Department of Emergency Medicine of Temple University School of Medicine. In an exclusive interview, Dr. McNamara dissects the crisis and controversy hounding the Philippine dragon boat team.

1. There is a great possibility that the Philippine Dragon Boat team may not make it to the World Championships because of politics. Do you believe that the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), International Olympic Committee (IOC), Philippine Canoe Kayak Federation (PCKF) and International Canoe Federation (ICF) contributed much to put the Philippine team in such a predicament ?

The decision of the POC to recommend that the Philippine Sport Commission shift funding related to dragon boat from the PDBF to the PCKF indicates it does not fully understand the history of dragon boating in the Philippines and the great success enjoyed by the PDBF national teams at the World Championships. The POC essentially has pulled the rug out from the PDBF, an organization which for years has provided outstanding representation of the Philippines at the World Championships recognized by Asian Olympic Council and Sport Accord.

2. Is government funding crucial for a sport like dragon boat ?

As with any sport requiring international travel, if you want a successful team, funding must be provided for the young athletes who will represent the country.

3. How and when did ICF gain jurisdiction over dragon boat as a sport ?

The ICF does not have jurisdiction over dragon boat. The ICF claim of jurisdiction is disturbing when it is clear that another organization the IDBF developed the sport to its current international status and is recognized by Sport Accord, the international sports organization, as the controlling body for dragon boat. The ICF has been on a campaign to absorb water sports that have been created, nurtured and developed with zero support or involvement from the ICF. The ICF is also doing the same with outrigger canoeing and surf ski.

4. How important are the coaches and team officials in creating a world champion ?

The coach in a team sport like dragon boat is the single most important factor in the success of the team. The coach must attract the athletes capable of winning and motivate them to train and work together for the unified purpose of victory.

5. Which sport body do you think contributed the most to the Philippine Dragon Boat Team crisis ?

If you go back into the history of dragon boat in the early 1980’s when it was first on the rise as an international sport, the ICF rejected proposals to assume control over the sport stating it was not a canoe sport. The sport then fully developed on its own through the hard work of the IDBF and its popularity surged past the traditional canoe and kayak sports controlled by the ICF. The decision of new leadership in the ICF to then declare control over dragon boat is the root cause of the crisis in the Philippines. Without that declaration we would not have come to the point where the PCKF believed it could take over the sport in the Philippines. The real tragedy in all of this is the effect on the great paddlers of the PDBF.

6. Was there a directive to the POC from the IOC to put the Philippine Dragon Boat Team under the Philippine Canoe Kayak Federation ?

Not going to answer this one as I am not 100% clear.

7. What do you think is the best solution to the crisis ?

The POC should reverse its decision and recommend restoration of funding to the PDBF.

8. Do you expect the Philippine Dragon Boat Team to make it to the World Championships in Tampa, Florida despite the present crisis ?

It is hard to imagine the PDBF being able to come up with the resources required to bring the same level of team to the World Championships as before. It would seem that they would only be able to recruit paddlers who have the ability to afford the travel as opposed to being able to pick the best athletes regardless of their financial situation.

9. What can you advice Philippine sports officials in view of the current situation surrounding the Philippine Dragon Boat Team ?

Philippine sports officials need to carefully look at what they are tearing apart, the PDBF teams have represented the Philippine nation in an outstanding fashion in my opinion. Not only are these teams winning and setting world records, the athletes are of the finest character and well respected by their competitors from across the globe. Sports officials should act in the best interest of the athletes and that does not seem to be the case here.

AIR ATTACK : TWO THUMBS UP

2011-05-17T20:42:00.000-07:00

When BC first told me that he was going to have a show, I was quite skeptical. I know he is a very funny guy but a show is all-together different. But to my surprise, his show, Air Attack, is turning out to be very entertaining as it airs on syndicateradio.tv every Tuesday at 8:00 - 10:00 pm New York time.

Aside from the funny conversation between BC and Joey, who is the other host of the show, Air Attack pulls in the laughs with its Starting Five segment. Starting Five is a list of 5 things that the hosts come up with. The topics are as wide and varied as they can get. Last time I watched the show, BC and Joey were presenting their own lists of top 5 personalities who fell from grace because of their indiscretions. The lists were funny and had international appeal that made me, a Filipino, laugh out loud. Unlike other American shows which tend to be too American, making it difficult for other nationalities to fully grasp and appreciate, BC and Joey make an effort to make their lists familiar to an international audience. Hence, people from the Philippines get to enjoy the lists and the jokes that go with them.

But what truly makes Air Attack very entertaining for me is the ability of the hosts to laugh at themselves. The show becomes a pleasure as the hosts appear to be just like your regular buddies. It really helps as well that they know current events, making the show very hip and relevant. Even sports news are discussed as they happen.

I hope that Air Attack lasts a lifetime for people to enjoy its brand of humor and entertainment. More power, and laughter, to my buddies, BC and Joey.

PILIPINAS GOT TALENT : IN THE MIDDLE OF A CREDIBILITY ISSUE

2011-05-17T01:42:00.000-07:00

First, it was Rico the Magician who failed to advanced to the finals despite an incredible performance. Now comes Dance Selection. Pilipinas Got Talent is fast becoming more of a star search than a talent search. All because good looks has become the basis for outright entry into the finals.

I personally see a major flaw in the mechanics of Pilipinas Got Talent which may account for the show's ridiculous over-emphasis on good looks. The show allows its hosts and executives to vote. It is but natural for these people to vote for people who look good on television being in the industry themselves. ABS-CBN will have an easier time to market good-looking winners than ugly ones. The network stands to gain more money should it make stars out of the winner of the talent search. And good-looking people, despite minimal talent, are easier to turn into stars than ugly ones, overflowing talent notwithstanding.

In America's Got Talent, the ultimate winner gets to take his or her act to Las Vegas. It is the act not the contestant's good looks that take centerstage in America's Got Talent. There are no television networks out to turn the winner into a television or movie star. There are no intentions on the part of network executives to make money out of the winner of the American talent search.

Pilipinas Got Talent is a talent search. As such, it must prioritize talent as the basis in picking out its winner. Sadly, the show places too much importance on how the contestant looks on television. Physical appearance clearly defines the show's eventual winner. Sadly, truly incredible acts are overlooked in favor of mediocre performances by good-looking contestants.

HAPPY FEET : MY PERSONAL FAVORITE IN PILIPINAS GOT TALENT

2011-05-14T17:39:00.000-07:00

Call me a sentimental fool but I choose to vote for Happy Feet in Pilipinas Got Talent.

Happy Feet is made up of two young brothers who tap dance. The two come all the way from Bukidnon. They come from a poor family which makes their journey in Pilipinas Got Talent all the more interesting. When Happy Feet first auditioned, they tap danced without real tap shoes on. The two just danced wearing regular leather shoes. But Happy Feet just the same turned in a great performance which made Kris Aquino and Ai Ai delas Alas cry. I too shed buckets of tears as the two young men gave their all despite the financial constraints. In fact, the two had to sell tomatoes to finance their trip to Manila during the audtions.. But all the hard work was all worth it when the judges and viewers finally saw their outstanding performance. During the semifinal round last night, Happy Feet gave an exceptionally complicated polished performance that made Ai Ai delas Alas and I cry tears of joy once again.

Happy Feet no doubt has the talent. But I just feel that tap dancing is not well-appreciated as a form of dance in the Philippines. The two young men too do not have the looks that will make people vote for them. But they certainly have something that other talented people in the show do not. Happy Feet has the courage to chase its dream despite the hardships in life. Happy Feet certainly represents the millions of poor Filipinos who have the talent to shine despite the limitations set before them because of poverty. For me, a vote for Happy Feet is a vote for all the poor but talented Filipinos who dare to dream big. It is also a vote for true talent in whatever form it may be.

I just hope that people see the talent and fine example that Happy Feet is showing in its journey in Pilipinas Got Talent. I hope that people vote for them in the finals.

VIZCONDE MASSACRE : A NEW WITNESS SURFACES

2011-05-13T15:24:00.000-07:00

A new witness in the Vizconde has expressed her intention to take the witness stand should the case be reopened . DOJ Secretary De Lima has also revealed that the new witness passed the lie detector test when questioned by the DOJ. Four other new witnesses have likewise been tagged by the DOJ.

While the new witness may provide new evidence that Hubert Webb and his group indeed committed the gruesome crime, Hubert and his group may not be tried once again for the crime. Double jeopardy prevents suspects of a crime from being tried a second time around. At best, the reopening of the case will merely setlle the question of who committed the crime. Hubert and his group even if proven guilty by the new witnesses will remain scot-free.

I still think the Filipino people deserve to hear the new witness for she may provide the answer as to who really killed the Vizcondes. The whole Vizconde incident will only come to a close when a credible conclusion is reached. So far, after 20 years, that conclusion remains elusive for Mr. Lauro Vizconde and the Filipino people.

EUGENE TEJADA : FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT

2011-05-06T10:34:00.001-07:00

Eugene Tejada was well on his way to PBA prominence when tragedy struck. In a game against Red Bull in 2006, Tejada suffered a nasty fall that had him lying motionless on the court for about an hour. The fall cut short his basketball career and altered his life forever. In an exclusive interview with Bandera correspondent Eric Dimzon, Tejada reveals his darkest as well as brightest moments towards physical, emotional and spiritual healing.

1. How are you now 5 years after that unfortunate incident ?
I'm doing good. I'm trying to get better still everyday. Everyday is a struggle. I still experience numbness in my lower extremities. But God has enabled me to walk again with the help of walking crutches. Yeah, I'm doing better.

2. What were the thoughts running through your mind immediately after the incident ?
I remember the incident just like yesterday. On the 14th of this month, it will be exactly 5 years since that happened. I knew something was wrong immediately after my fall. I couldn't move at all. I couldn't move my fingers. I couldn't move my hand. I couldn't move my legs. I knew I was paralyzed. You always read or hear how you can get paralyzed. But it never occurred to me that it could happen to me. I was hoping that nothing was broken. I was hoping that it was just a stinger or a bruise that would go away. In the hospital, it was finally confirmed that I damaged my spinal cord.

3. Were you upset or angry with what happened ?
I was not upset or angry. I was scared. I was scared whether I would make it in the next ten minutes. I couldn't breathe on my own. at that time. I was really scared because I didn't know what was going on with my body. I was thinking of a lot of things. Am I paralyzed ? Am I going to die ? Will I ever walk again ? Will I ever play basketball again ? I was basically scared of the future.

4. To make things worse, you were on your way to establishing yourself as a dependable basketball player for Purefoods. Were you frustrated that your career suddenly had to come to an end just when you were finally gaining respect as a player ?
Yeah. I struggled with my first two years in the PBA. I didn't get much playing time from Alaska and San Miguel. So I asked for a trade to Purefoods. Luckily, Coach Ryan picked me up. And when Coach Ryan gave me the chance to play, I really grabbed the opportunity and never let it go. I ended up being best player of the game when I started in a game for Coach Ryan. All my hard work was starting to pay off. But all that was taken away after the incident.

5. Have you fully come to terms with the fact that you will never play basketball again ?
I'm not gonna say it happened overnight. I had a lot of soul-searching. I went into depression. When I got hurt, just to be myself, just to be Eugene Tejada, was taken away from me. I became an infant again. I needed someone to help me go to the bathroom. I needed someone to help me change my clothes. It was very hard. Depression really became a big part of my life. To further add to my depression, my girlfiend, Jenny Hernandez and I broke up. It brought me to a place where it was very dark. I didn't want to talk to anybody. I didn't want to live anymore. I didn't want to go through the struggle.

6. Did you ever think of committing suicide ?
I'll be one hundred percent honest. Yeah, I thought of committing suicide. I considered drinking all my pills to have an overdose. But God flashed an image to my head where I saw my family and friends crying over my casket. I couldn't do it. I couldn't leave this earth and leave so much heartache to my family and friends.

7. How has your injury affected your faith in God ?
As I was going through depression, I was angry at God. I was asking Him what He wanted to do with my life. But slowly, I realized that God saved me through my injury. Before the accident, I was a basketball player living the fame and fortune. I had a lot of women and partied all night. I was really going down a dark path. I believe God wanted me to stop. I believe God allowed me to get hurt to get a better life. A life that would glorify Him.

8. Who were the people who stood by you during your most difficult moments ?
Harvey Carey. Jimmy Alapag. Those guys are my bestfriends. My family. Rob Johnson. Purefoods for taking care of me and my medical expenses. I would be broke now if Purefoods did not take care of the financial burden. Mr. Pardo and the whole Purefoods family. I know that they are B-Meg Derby Aces now but they will always be Purefoods in my heart. James Yap and PJ Simon , I believe are still there.

9. What is the most important lesson that you learned from the whole sad ordeal ?
That Jesus lives and heals. I don't want to sound preachy, but that is my testimony. I know that I did my part but it was God who healed my nerves and muscles. My doctors told me that I only had a 4% chance of ever walking again. But God, who is the great healer, has allowed me to walk again. God is good.

10. What advice do you want to give to those who may be going through tough moments in their lives right now ?
I will tell them that there is light at the end of the tunnel. That the darkness will pass. That the ordeal is to mold their character to make them the person that God wants them to be. And that there is a need to help others who are going through an ordeal, whether it be minor or major. And to just keep their head up and keep fighting and never give up. The day they give up is the day that they lose. I lost hope several times in the past, but God would always tap me in the shoulder to remind me to just keep going and never give up.

11. What keeps you busy nowadays ?
I'm still doing therapy three times a week, two hours a day. I'm into school to become a minister of healing. I will also finsh my business degree. And I'm working on a book that I intend to publish in the Philippines.

12. Do you have a message to your fans and friends who continue to support you ?
I would like to thank everyone for their prayers. I wouldn't be where I am right now if not for everyone's prayers. I still feel the love and support of the fans. I strive to get better because I don't want to let people down especially those who continue to show support. I know I am not a basketball player anymore but I still need your support and prayers for my full recovery.