Admitting the causes she's supporting as "Unpopular", Quezon City 3rd District Councilor Kate Coseteng is not about to let down what she sees as necessary for women in the Philippines. She is the first representative of Kababaihan PartyList which aims to be the voice of women in congress to enact laws that would benefit the public. Their Second Nominee Ria Romualdo is a registered nurse, and has sternly supported their causes in childrens health and welfare, based in Mindanao.
Kate is no stranger in creating laws as she's been a Quezon City Councilor for 3 terms, has done the same in Valenzuela City. She pushed for the creation of Quezon City University, dialysis centers, PWD concerns, and benefits for solo parents (something she is pretty well known for). She uttered unpopular because these are certain things that people don't accept, especially matters that concern divorce. She lengthily discussed this with us because of the things that women go through.
If set in an abusive marriage, it may also be physical, emotional and economical. She's optimistic it will get passed if it doesn't contain certain conditions such as "irreconcilable differences" as it is too broad to define and be accepted by lawmakers. I saw how practical she was and deal it without emotions, much like business and a numbers game rather than having just a feisty disposition. She focusing on going into it with pride, curiosity, knowledge that the causes are important. If you don't know, it is extremely expensive to get an annulment in the Philippines and it is extremely an anti poor legislation. The plan is, to have divorce be afforded by folks of any stature. She mentioned it being paid for as much as 5,000 pesos, all in. This could definitely be a game changer for a lot of women who couldn't afford the annulment process if they are abused.
The KABABAIHAN PartyList is also very aware of current issues, and would want to address working conditions for women who work at odd hours. Call Center agents, BPO, Nurses, Bartenders, Security Guards, and the likes, they feel should have a place to safely leave their kids while they are working to make a living. They want a Night Care Center to do this to also be a place for refuge for women who are victims of abuse, to also have them train for livelihood and business, also get legal and psychological help if needed. They also want to help create laws that would provide micro finance so women could put up small businesses to provide for their families. This includes financial literacy, for obvious reasons. They also want to push for reforms regarding the LGBTQIA+ sector, to provide a more general view of the equality they've been longing for. Something that they want to do with reforms, even if it means they would have to start from scratch.
Kate says "If you see the things we have on our platform are severely unpopular. It's a bit heavy to digest, but these are legitimate issues in our society. For example divorce, since we are a very Catholic nation, it's super difficult to pass laws like it. We already have passed a version in congress, but it met its demise in the senate. This goes the same with the SOGIE Bill that has already spent 24 years since its inception. Senator Miriam Santiago first did this in the early 2000's, and when asked what I could help with their cause, they answered just "respect", so we made efforts to make it less polarizing when it is sent to the Senate. This would be more like an anti discrimination act that would be applicable for all including the LGBTQIA+ community. Baby steps, we can't just promise platforms and not have progress."
Here's her talk if you want a more detailed understanding of it:
Unpopular, yes, but it feels so necessary for a LOT of people. It was super nice to hear all these from her and how passionate she wants it all to happen. Women remains a sector that is heavily under represented to this day. I know so many folks who would greatly benefit from the laws she mentioned especially with divorce for abused women.
4 people hosting a cooking show, would you watch it? Well that's about to happen as Mikee Quintos, Team Payaman's Dudut, Chef Hazel and Chef Ylyt host a new show on GTV called LUTONG BAHAY.
Direk says "They have their own flavor and personalities. Hazel does mom stories, Ylyt is technical, Dudut is comedy, while Mikee is very collaborative so she always asks what to do with our guests. It's new, and if it's not Mikee it wouldn't be like this."
Mikee says " I feel with all the projects I did before, it all starts with a character. In this one, I am only going to be doing me. I'm an empath according to my professors, and hosting this will mean I get to connect with people, bring out stories we want to hear. What I would ask will probably be what people want to ask, to humanize our artists. They are just like us and this could show that. My urge to cook is the locked in taping I had because in more than a month, I had to do everything by myself. That's when I started enjoying it, also with The Lost Recipe. To be fully honest, it's been a while since I did a show, I had a long break and I felt it. They told me not to overthink, and instead looked for new skills and had workshops for public speaking. They taught us how to host. And now I'm using that for this purpose. God is so good, I trusted him and he blessed me more."
Hazel shared "I started cooking when I was 8, and growing up in Divisoria, I always look at my Grandmother's cooking. I see them prepare, learn culinary stuff and became a Mom. I was surprised to be tapped here and asked why, I am just grateful. We have a lot to share with people, and our guests too. I am honored to be part of this."
Ylyt adds "I was just a home cook, but used my experience to do content through vlogs. I am still studying, a scholar in ISCAHM, it's very technical and my goal is to teach people what I can do. I didn't get much traction but when they chose me, I felt it is destiny. I want it to be a not so serious one, they get to learn from the guests too."
Dudut says "I know cooking is hard, I'm studying, I'm currently a home cook and cook for my friends. This opportunity makes me nervous, I asked why too, but I said, this is for me, I'm willing to learn as we get along."
It will premiere this coming Monday, 5:45 pm on GTV, go make your afternoon a relaxing one and see them cook, talk and share their stories.
It's surreal to see how LOVE happens at the most opportune time. Some may call it serendipity, some may call it fate, but in the case of Dive Master Timmy Llana and Miss Universe Philippines 2016 Maxine Medina, it would have been a case of marrying "The One That Got Away".
They went to the same school and had the same circle of friends. He was smitten the first time he laid her eyes on her, but she was young, boyish, had that athletic mindset to think about relationships. Volleyball was the only thing she wanted to do that time. He drove her home a couple of times, and felt taken cared of.
Nothing romantic came of it, but they remained friends, communicated and then didn't get to talk for a couple of years after that. Maxine then went to win the Miss Universe Philippines title to represent the country for Miss Universe pageant in 2016, right after Pia's reign and eventually, got to the Top 6. After that, she went on to became a celebrity, appearing different successful TV shows, movies, and hosting stints which she remains to do today.
Got to talk to Timmy and Maxine at J's Diamond in Trinoma during the time they were choosing the designs for their wedding ring.
Timmy prefers the classic design (left), one that could be worn for years and doesn't go out of style. Maxine on the other hand plans to have her rings layered (right) when she wears it. She chose simple but elegant design which is currently is in yellow gold. All would be custom made by J's Diamond in white gold. The one on the far right is a diamond crusted band, she loves it and plans to pass it on for generations to come. These two rings will be paired with the existing marquise shaped diamond ring (her engagement ring), an heirloom piece she got from Timmy's family.
Here's how our conversation over lunch went:
Here's a short tour inside the store, and some moments with Timmy and Maxine that afternoon:
Maxine's love for the sun, sand and the sea got her reconnected with Timmy. They felt it wasn't much of formalities and courtship that happened, the friendship just blossomed into this. She attributes it to her ability to go with the flow, they just kinda knew it was LOVE and embraced it. Timmy saw how they grew closer while doing the things they love (with so much passion), particularly diving. It just so happened that he was a Dive Master, and says they were just at the right place and the right time.
From a friendship that spanned almost 20 years, and being in a relationship for 5 years, Timmy and Maxine plan to start a family after their wedding in October. They hope to have twins as he's had family who are too . Maxine wants to pursue A LOT of things still, and continue her showbiz career plus other businesses she plans to do in the future (quips she can multitask). She's currently doing "Magandang Dilag" with Herlene Budol and other GMA stars. She says it'll be shown next month, make sure you watch out for that!
Their story could have ended a long time ago, but you see, LOVE has its ways. This too proves how friends, old flames, the things you are passionate about can spark affection and relationships. Hope their story inspires you. I mean who knows?! That person who genuinely care for you might just be THE ONE.
Congratulations Timmy and Maxine! Again, thank you for the opportunity to interview and get to know you on a more personal level. I'll be cheering from the bleachers like I did during your Miss U stint!
P.S. If you want to know more about J's Diamond, just search the same on Facebook. You may also visit their official site jsdiamond.com.ph and book appointments there.
Tomorrow is certainly a good day to go and watch veteran broadcaster and journalist Korina Sanchez-Roxas' show KORINA INTERVIEWS on NET 25 5PM. For starters, she's talking to the feisty, award winning actress Dina Bonnevie who's going to talk more about things she's gone through life, showbusiness and none of the controversial stuff she was in a few weeks ago (yes none of that certain celebrity).
During their talk, Dina divulges how her Dad had released dogs to run after her boyfriend, how had to tone down the way she talks because of politics, the things she does in the north, how she was tortured to kneel in mung beans, how she also had her daughter kneel on rice grains, plus the work she had to do despite being in a well off family. There will be tons of stories and anecdotes about her past relationships, and how she became THE Dina Bonnevie that we see today.
Again, make sure you set the channel on NET 25 this Sunday at 5PM and see what other interesting stories she would dish out and feisty statements uttered on Korina Interviews!
If there's someone to ask about the path to immortality in the Philippines, there's probably one person you have in mind, former Senator Juan Ponce Enrile. The statesman turned 99 years old this year and what better way to ask about his life, politics and thoughts about the countless memes on the internet which he was able to also see especially during the pandemic. He will answer all these questions and more on Rated Korina which will be available on the Korina Sanchez Roxas YouTube Channel.
This will be a 2 part exclusive interview with JPE and will include stories about how he started working as a yaya, fisherman, farmer, sales man, construction worker, a tortured man during the Japanese war who was able to escape, became a lawyer and have worked with 6 Philippine Presidents in his lifetime.
Make sure you subscribe here https://www.youtube.com/@KorinaSanchez1 as the first episode already has over 100K views in just a single day. If you're wondering why it's he's still sharp at 99, or what he feels about his detractors, or maybe how politics has been in the last few years, or if he saw Adam and Eve in the flesh, those will be seen on the show. So make sure you sub and get the latest episodes on the Korina Sanchez Roxas channel!
It's been a while since we've talked to Alden Richards and yeah, we kinda miss this boy. I've had the chance to interview him quite a lot before the pandemic hit and this was a really opportune time to touch base on why he's doing a concert this January 2022 called ForwARd: Meet Richard Faulkerson Jr..
He says "I'm very private, this concert will be a venue to give out a huge portion of me and why I am starting AR Foundation. They will know about it, it's a documentary concert, and people will find the reason, of what I experienced during my childhood. You will get to see that Alden Richards and Richard Faulkerson Jr. are one and the same person."
For those who don't know, Alden has been helping quite a number of scholars through friends because he didn't quite want to be seen doing the deed. Recently, he learned through them that he was already able to have 2 of them graduate, one finished Electrical Engineering, the other with a BS Information Technology course. Alden wants to actually help more have access to education hence why he's put up AR Foundation. With it, he's going to address more issues and give a chance for those who have not been able to enroll in school, to change not just their lives, but their family too. Alden also talked about why he's not in a hurry for love and relationships, which he says can always be there, and can happen anytime he wanted to. He finds doing these "purpose" filled concert more fulfilling because he was able to help a lot of people.
Alden also addressed why he chooses to be kind even if he has his share of detractors. Here's our interview with him a few days ago. Enjoy!
Make sure you're updated and follow us on YouTube, FB and Twitter, we'll let out a few more details when this concert will happen on January. And it's for a good cause, why not right?
The young and talented Kelvin Miranda has become a really remarkable leading man in GMA's stable. Recently, he did so good in the May-December love affair series called Stories From The Heart: Loving Miss Bridgette with the one and only Beauty Gonzales, wherein he did a remarkable job.
Aside from these notable roles he's been doing, he also just launched a new single under GMA Records called "Slow Dance". This single is an original song written by Jomari Jintalan and produced by Paulo Agduelo. Kelvin says "This song is for those who haven't experienced doing it. For me, it's like taking it easy, slowing down which I dedicate to my fans. I am thankful because I've been given an opportunity by GMA. The role I did with Ms. Beauty was well worth it, I think I've given it justice because it's a great collaboration between my Director, the people there and me. I often ask questions, I want to relate to people who are in the same situation so I can make the character realistic. The song I released is like telling a story, I liken it to what I want to do when I have a relationship. I really relate with the first line, if you have to decide, have trouble, you just take it easy. It's an ode to those who are hopeful. I think I've changed a lot, I have more confidence now. I still have moments when I do need a lot of that, but it's manageable. I just have to balance what opportunities come to me. I don't think it would be up to me if I changed, maybe other people would be able to say that. I've had relationships before, but right now I am single, I still have a lot to prove to myself. I often get a little out of focus when I'm in a relationship."
Here's his interview on video, enjoy!
The single "Slow Dance" is now out on streaming platforms here around the world. It placed second on iTunes charts in the Philippines when it first came out, you can also see the official music video on YouTube if you're up to it. Congratulations Kelvin! You're going places!
Just got out of the press conference hosted by Instituto Cervantes, European Union as they are celebrating Cine Europa 24. Cine Europa has been done almost every year for over 20 years, I remember visiting the Shangrila mall in Mandaluyong to see the fillms, but since we are under the pandemic, they released 17 heavily awarded films on the Cine Europa website so you could enjoy them all for FREE at the comforts of your home. The presser was moderated by the Director of Instituto Cervantes in Manila Javier Galvan.
Rafael Bustamante of the EU delegation says "I am amazed by this wonderful movie and we have a lot to learn from film makers. The intrigues, are all interesting. We are happy to make this part of the festival."
The Film's Director and writer Andres Sanz says "I never really thought I was going to make movies by art, it's something that just happened. I am interested in fiction, in narrative, and fate happened, this is my first love which is painting. I wanted to be a painter myself when I was growing up, it was not trying to connect, it just happened organically, and I thought it was a good commercial idea, but making this, it's difficult, took a long time and support wasn't easy. To get the funding, it's severely difficult. I see I have about 60 hours worth of interviews and cut a lot to make this film. It's just a single picture but is seen in different ways. It has a lot of narratives, it started in a conversation with an art expert one day and this happened. I didn't even know them back then (in Ateneo in Madrid), Las Meninas was just a fascinating subject. I talked to the producer Antonio and research, investigation started. I wrote the script, I needed a structure. It's so huge and I might get lost so I needed a guide to know what to put into the film. I already knew how we were going to tell the story. I had to create it to tell the story with suspense like a crime movie. It's like Hitchcock, so viewers would be interested. The project took 6 years, we never knew when it was going to end, it's a long process and when you're done, it was a big relief. I went to the Prado museum when I was a little kid. Before it was in a room, but now it's in the main gallery. I remember entering that room that's crowded, it was like a theater in a way. It was like seeing a movie, everyone was looking at it. There was a guy with a mirror and he was explaining it, I got obsessed, asked my parents to buy me a guide for it. In it, they explained when you see it in the mirror, you see a 3D effect. I didn't see it when I went there as a child. It was like a magician trick, and in 2013, they did an exhibit by Velasquez. There were a lot of portraits and stories and about the people in it. I looked it up in the library, I found one but they didn't have a copy. I found the author, we met at the Ateneo in Madrid and that's when we started planning a movie about Las Meninas. There's something personal, it was attached to my life, my love for Velasquez and Prado but we had to be respectful on how we could talk about it."
He adds "Everybody would like art. I don't think it has to do with any particular country, this story has intrigue, I'm interested in Asian art myself and I know they would be interested in Western ones, culturally we are different and this represents us in that certain time. I think it's a story that has the suspense and surprises of a thriller. It's an interesting mix, not using narrator, but just listening and talking to them. Finding out what the meaning of the painting is for them, someone in the Philippines would be surprised how much intrigue there is about it. It's like dreams, real people talk about it would have different views, elements that are universal. I had a long list of people to talk to, but I read books before making the film, so I had a select people in mind already prior to making it. Jonathan Brown, Fernando Maria, such a great number of people, it was difficult because they probably didn't know me and I had to contact them. I was just lucky at the end because I got who I wanted. It wasn't a propaganda material, I want to give them time so they can establish their point of view. I had to give them amount of time to see what I needed, but their moments are special, even if they had 2 minutes. We shot for hours, lots of them are not in the movie. We talked about the restoration too, but it was very controversial. At the end, the editing should tell the story, you get surprised as it brought a lot of philosophical ideas, it brings so much beauty. I'm grateful for everyone, to meet them, to see them share their thoughts about the film. In the beginning, I created a visual script, it's images that had to do with the film. It's paintings, images, I thought of it while making this film we will make. It's all in black and white, some locations, some inspirational films, at one point I thought of using some of its views so I could do it in the film. I got to the box and got the idea of the box with dolls and puppets, so I could explain Las Meninas. I could also explain them in locations that were not there anymore. I thought about doing it with actors, but it was really expensive, the puppets will give you an idea but not distract you from costumes and feel that it's fake. The puppets somehow had to induce imagination, it's a way to make us think of what would happen. It worked out very well and do it for stop motion. It was all one take and animated it, then we moved to the next one. We had to go, and at the end of the film, we had the puppets, and it meant we are part of that, we become fiction, we become the story. When they talk about this film, they will invent ideas how we made it, it has subjectivity and fantasy. We tried to put that into motion."
It was just awesome to see and hear it from the person who created the film itself, I was at awe of how he was able to put these together. Art is subjective, and I've seen a lot of videos made just for this particular artwork, this one puts you in the driver seat, make you feel you are investigating about it. That element makes it greater, and I'd like to ask you to watch it by registering at https://www.cineeuropaph.com/ and it's all there!
They dub her the new Shopee princess, and the face of Shopee's Payday Sale. She's Alex Gonzaga.
Her new TVC, and digital pronouncements must have been seen already by so many people and this time we got the chance to ask her questions during a small digital meet and greet.
She says "I'm very happy to be part of the Shopee family. This brand that Filipinos trust, even I shop there every night. I'm happy and honored, my family and friends want vouchers, but I told them to wait for akinse. I guess I really loved the dance sequences I had to do during the commercial. Honestly, I couldn't believe I'd be in a roster of ambassadors that Shopee has. The campaign also is so good, I love how it connects to Filipinos and tell them the time to shop, when sweldo time happens."
"Well, these days I buy if there are deals. My husband and I now buy for two people, he asks for masks and send me the link, I am the one who checks out. I recently bought a portable sauna, nothing has changed really, it's just an extra person sending me links. Admittedly, I am a shopaholic, I always had hand me downs and cry in the mall if I don't get new things. When I started earning, I now get the chance to buy stuff but my Mom still questions me as she manages my finances. Now, I don't have to go to malls like when I was in college. Next week, I'll be doing a locked in shooting for Tin Can and Ten17 for a new movie, and last year, I did one with my sister and Fifth Solomon (for MMFF last year) and of course Lunch Out Loud wherein Shopee is part of. On my vlogs, I'll be doing collaborations and cook with other vloggers so watch out for that. I love locked in tapings, and they're doing things in Lipa so I get to see my husband everyday still. He's been so supportive, every time I have things arranged in my movie."
"My budol find is the portable sauna, he didn't want me to have a steamer so he suggested to have this instead and buy me 10 if I needed it. Aside from that, I have 10 little black dresses which I buy from there. The tongue prank I did, I got that from the Shopee app. I just search and it appears! I'd buy stuff for Xevi, I buy things like the Titanic like boat which my Dad paid for. He spoils him in secret."
"Happy Cup at home is also in Shopee so if you're buying stuff, we're also there."
Congratulations Alex and Shopee! Hope we see you in future akinse promos!
Just got off the press conference of THE CLASH Season 3 Champion Jessica Villarubin as she talks about her beginnings, her struggles, her story before she actually did it in this year's competition. She's very bubbly, very positive, but here she shares how she had to make ends meet and pay back her Mom and Dad's kindness as they had struggled a lot during her childhood.
Jessica says "Bullying has affected me in the past, it's like it wasn't enough to have talent, my physical appearance, yet they don't know me, who I am, it kinda got my confidence low. I'm happy and grateful that I got enhanced by Vicky Belo, before I was only watching her on TV, I shared my experiences and I'm very grateful how she helped me in my journey. Yesterday I performed in All Out Sundays and I'm happy how I was received, they were really happy for me. During the finals, I didn't expect to be the grand champion, I prayed about it and if it was meant for me, it was for me, but if not, I still trust the Lord. I'm grateful when they announced my name, I thought I was in a dream state, my Clash friends were also happy for me, also my family. When I was given the song by Mr Christian Bautista, it's a dream come true, I am personally thankful for the opportunity, to hear myself sing my own song, finally."
She adds "When I won, I couldn't sleep, I carried my medal around because of taping specials, in the morning, I got so many congratulatory messages. I had my gown, I still couldn't believe it. In just a few months, I also had my own song so I just couldn't believe it. Ako Naman is all about traditional love, on getting a dream come true. I waited so long for it, and the message is just pefect timing. It tells about your time, like in my life, I left so many things before I got here. I went here for it, I really couldn't believe I won. Aside from my Clash family, I want to be with Alden, Aicelle, if I could perform with them, that would be a dream. Now, I am concentrating on singing, but I'm open to learn things if it is offered to me. Based on my experience, I faced so many failures and rejections, I had to many auditions that I didn't get accepted, I wanted it to be my time, this song is about that. About the right time, I had to wait for it, I am blessed. Winning the CLASH was my biggest achievement, I will forever cherish that. I am proud of myself, because of all the hardships in work and family, I thought I couldn't make it, but I did, and I have achieved my dream. It was all worth it."
Here is part of the interview we had with her this afternoon:
Ako Naman is now streaming on different digital platforms worldwide. Go check it out on Spotify or YouTube for the video as well. This is under GMA Music.
Enchong Dee is in the prime of his life, his career is on top, his businesses flourish, and he still wants more. He also helps people behind the scenes, helps his family and others. He's the perfect guy imho, I wouldn't be surprised he's going to be even more successful in the coming years.
Enchong talked to us during a press conference after his live session and he shares "We have a lot of ways to save our car, bikes, property and we need income generating investments. At 4,000 a month, you can now save your business, you can use it for your business too. For me, I would advise people at my age to make an investment that is very close to your heart. When you are young, when you are still healthy, there is more room to grow. I am in the business of real estate, restaurants and others. I don't promote them as much and I don't think I have bankrupt businesses because I still have them open. I am very thankful that none of us have been affected in Bicol. I am always praying to make me a bridge to help people in 2020, my heart really bleeds with people that have been affected by the pandemic and the typhoons. I still want to put up another business despite the things happening, maybe a farm to table concept if it is possible. I see food as a necessity, we need it, we want it and in the country we need that. Passion isn't enough but it's good that it is there. We need a lot to succeed, but it's a nice first step. It's a shrimp business, we don't have sustainable farming and I am going to explore that with new technology. I want to have a facility that won't be affected by typhoons and hope we would be able to survive. In my restaurants, we didn't have movements and since there were not much sales, we needed to cook them so we strengthened online payments and couriers so we can keep up with the times and systems. I graduated developmental studies in La Salle but my love for doing business was from my parents. I used to sell instant noodles and corned beef to my team mates, I learned at an early age that no matter how small my earnings were it was a good experience. When I was already working I used the same system in my businesses, when I have earned in show business, I already knew where it would go, to a business of course."
Enchong also talked about security and says "It is important to have a backup plan. It safeguards my business, it safeguards my future. We need to do that because we can't expect things like this pandemic. We practiced a contingency fund for our business, if we need another one, I added the Negosyante Starter Pack so I can insert my personal funds when I needed it. You have to have that clear vision of what you will achieve. All the things you do, you have to folow that goal no matter what happens in your business. In our company, we told them about the situation, transparency to let them see the state of the business. They understood the situation and they had clear mindset about what was happening if their salaries was a little delayed. We were all going through it, they worked hard, they got average daily sales and achieved it. I said earlier about passion, I told them about what I did in my case. When you're so tired from work you can still go to your business. Sit down with your business partners and seek where you can help, it makes you a real part of the business and not just wait for dividends so you can be a part of future businesses with them too, so you can grow more. I want to build a business in Naga, in Bicol to open up more opportunities in that part of the country. I want to have my own game show, my own biopic, I will pray for that. Business and pleasure can mix, if you do good in business, you can enjoy it when it grows. It will come to a point when you will rest and you won't have those worries when you don't have work. For me, you don't cross the line, it has to be clear that you are going there to work and it's not a relationship. If I would give an advise for my contemporaries, just work. Business is not a thing that can be hurried, it doesn't work that way, you need to do two to three good businesses that earn rather than a lot of restaurants in one go and some of them won't earn. Behind every successful man is a woman, it may help but you have to know if you're inspired because of it or have their support, it is a case to case basis. It will help."
He tells us some of his celebrity friends also ask him about doing business but he says "Sometimes when I get to see my friends asking me questions about business, I tell them about it. But most often that not, they don't follow through. I hope they turn it to action because they know when I get into something I make sure it is very secure."
I asked him about his other policies and Enchong answered "Yes I have three different policies in SunLife, I have Health, I have Negosyante Starter Pack and Life Insurance. I am so secured because SunLife is my partner. I have a goal to try new things in businesses, but I have to educate myself each time I do that. To know who my business partner is, timing and location, which is what I do every time I venture into different things. It feels good to consistently treat yourself as a student, so you learn things even more."
Ms. Len Arboleda adds "Sunlife is in the business of Life Insurance. There are other types of non life insurance which can cover risks on the business itself. We cover individuals only."
The Negosyante Starter Pack combines Sun MaxiLink 100 which is an investment linked life insurance and the Sun Life Prosperity Achiever 2028 Fund which grows capital. You should talk to an advisor so you know which one would fit you. This would be a really great plan for new entrepreneurs who want to have security so you can fund future projects and have some extra for instances of emergencies. If you want to know more, they have information about it on www.sunlife.com.ph.
I stared blankly through the horizon as our boat approached the island. It was around noon, a bit hungry from the short flight to Manila-Busuanga, then a van from Busuanga to Coron, plus a boat ride to this quaint old town. I was trying to figure out if this place is what I remember; reading in books, several online articles - of the island named Culion.
From afar, I could see the church on top of a rock and on the other side a huge sign that says CULION on it. I immediately slapped my huge airstrip like forehead and felt like doh', this is it, this is the island I've read about!
Garlic Chicken
Pork Sisig
Pinakbet with pink hues, their Bagoong Alamang is different
At the Port, we climbed a flight of stairs of a government building rented out for a local restaurant. I remember the feeling of being awestrucked as I turned my head into the window; a gust of wind whiffed on my face while I witnessed the beautiful surrounding blue waters and well forested nearby islands in Culion. I asked myself a couple of times how this beautiful place seem to have less tourists when it just felt wonderful to be there. I sat down and figured I better take care of my hunger first and deal with the answers later.
Food was cheap, everyone was in a flurry to have us feel comfortable especially Michelle our guide and Team MSB who was with us to experience Culion. They're in to experience the island before they start to shoot the movie with the same name, we said our pleasantries and headed off to Hotel Maya. The only hotel in Culion.
With our luggages in tow, we walked towards the tricycle terminal and as soon as we set foot outside the port, a man jumped out and greeted us with flair, in the public PA system and got amused of his antics. Felt like fish in an aquarium for a few minutes, then we sped off through a few barangays and reached the place in just a few strides.
Our window view, late sunset. We were on top of a cliff and you could see a small port below. Teens and kids were freely bathing there.
We climbed a few steps, walked a few meters and sitting at the back of the church was a two level bungalow with several rooms. Hotel Maya used to be an orphanage and school for females (Hijas de Maria Dormitory) who didn't have any place to go. They were taken cared of by Sisters of St. Paul of Charters who still had an office in the side of the lot, but the hotel is managed and operated by the same people behind Loyola College of Culion. An institution founded by Jesuits who also served the community. To get a feel of the place, we went to The Culion Museum and Archives to get to know Culion's rich history. If you are visiting the island for the first time, I suggest you do this particular tour in order to get a grasp of it. There is a small fee but really negligible. They also have a very clear, detailed view of the hospital and community operations with the real machines and instruments in it. They also have their own money displayed so you would understand further how they achieved medical success over the years.
If you didn't know, Culion WAS a colony for persons afflicted with Hansen's Disease (commonly known as Leprosy), but have been completely rid of it in 2006. The condition is curable via WHO MDT (Multidrug Therapy) and has been done successfully over decades. It is NOT very contagious, nor is it spread through pregnancy or intimacy. Calling persons afflicted with Hansen's disease with the L word is deemed outright offensive so you should NEVER call them that. This also goes the same with the term "patients" as they're not afflicted with it anymore, they prefer residents just like you and me. It totally makes sense. I kept that in my mind while asking questions all throughout the day, I learned this by talking to them directly, their hospital personnel, even the Medical Center Chief who affirmed this. More than the condition, I feel it is the SOCIAL STIGMA that we ought to worry about. If you are reading this from where you are, take a mental note of it and tell your friends, your family, Culion is completely safe and I got to talk to them the next day.
Ms. Imelda used to live and study in the Hijas de Maria Dormitory. She was excited to tell us how they used to live their daily lives in segregation, like she was one of the boys in the island. Ms. Maxencia also got to tell us about her current involvement in NGO's aimed to help and uplift the lives of people afflicted with Hansen's disease. They want to also bring their plight to the forefront and not do with the social stigma we mentioned earlier. I could see their excitement when they were informed that a film about Culion in the 1940's will be told on screen with no less than master writer Ricky Lee on the helm. Ms. Josephina on the other hand lives in solitude but completely happy with her dog. Mr. Constancio on the other hand told us about his 13 kids and a lovelife that spanned years before he and his wife met again (as this was during the war). Here's the interview on video!
Now that you've gotten schooled about the facts, I should tell you about these folks. Behind these interviews are a whole throng of family who also live with them. In spite of their isolation in the past, I was mostly touched at how they have no thinking of being trapped, some of them have had the opportunity to actually be with family outside or live a life elsewhere but ended up coming back because they find one thing, it was PEACE. They are fearless, no different than you and me, the only constant is our ability to treat them as equals and tell our brethren, to have them understand and tell their own because in this day and age, there should be no room for that stigma. They don't ask for anything special, but the same treatment, as Filipinos, as humanly possible.
This stairway had witnessed so many occasions. Almost all portraits, historical figures and photos were taken in this same spot and we had to do something inspired by Vanity Fair, of course!
The film will be featuring different spots in the island that have been part of their day to day lives. The community thrived even during the time of segregation, in a way they went all become very productive individuals and lived off the land. Marriage, romance, love, it all happened in one way or another. There are public baths, communal bathrooms, a little different from the usual but they ended quite fine despite the circumstances. That for me just paints a beautiful picture, of triumph, perseverance, of humanity. So aside from the majestic views, historical landmarks and clear waters, it's the people that makes this place so special.
It was just the first day and I was already learning a lot. Imagine the beach, the water, the sun, the sea and the people, the Culion story in one place. I was just blown away!
Escabeche
Sinigang Ribs
Chop Suey
Crabs, Crabs and more Crabs!
We went back to the hotel and had dinner. True enough, we had our eyes googly over fresh seafood, scrumptious home cooking. You have all the goodness and quality of cuisine from any place in the Philippines, but you really can't buy the ambiance that comes with it. We slept soundly later, with the howling winds putting us to sleep. We wore our smiles thinking we'll be seeing more of Culion and it's people the next day. We got word we'll be seeing the Mayor, and woke up excited at the steps of the island's Municipal Hall.
After a quick breakfast in the hotel (Garlicky ChixSiLog), we rode tricycles to the Municipal Hall. It housed government, the courts and public offices.
Hon. Virginia De Vera, lady Mayor of Culion
We met a very humble Mayor who felt it was just the total trust they have with the producers of this movie that made them say yes to it. They will help them whatever way they can and acknowledges this will really boost tourism in the island. Albeit being a third class municipality, they are working hard to finish projects in the island. Although it takes years to build roads, ports, structures that could service the incoming visitors, they are very positive this will bring change to the out look, of what people now think of Culion.
Pulang Lupa, look out for this tree and landscape that will connect Ricky Lee's masterpiece to the upcoming film Culion
Culion Public Cemetery
The Culion marker on top of the mountain which can be seen from afar
Here's our interview with the proud Mayor of Culion.
It's been a long time seeing changed lives and medical wonders in Culion. The landscape has changed but they properly rebuilt structures and made the Culion Sanitarium and Medical Hospital one of the most advanced institutions in Palawan. Nearby cities even go to them because of it and the structure remains sound despite the length of time it has been built. I was at awe how they maintained this (see first video above). It takes a strong man to run things and this falls on the hands of Dr. Cunanan. Here's our interview with him.
I left the island a changed man. I felt my fears were unfounded and this is probably the same with most of the population which have fears with olden outdated information languished by more documentaries which only brought fear because it's different and physically manifested.
Dr. Jose Rodriguez spent almost half a century to help in Culion. He is also the Great Grandpa of blogger Mica Rodriguez, proudly told me about him years ago (for then a movie script she worked on)
Residents have been cured, not all of them have been afflicted, nor is it passed on, so don't let your fears be the reason not to discover a beautiful place and not experience such heartfelt, colorful, warm people. Culion is definitely part of the next frontier and they are starting to embrace you, to come and visit the place they call home.
This experience was designed for us to know why they'll be making a film about Culion. I know the reason why, it's the people. If you experience that, and felt what I felt while talking to them, you'll be glad you did. Now I can't wait to see this upcoming Ricky Lee masterpiece which will be under the direction of Alvin Yapan and produced by Shandii Bacolod and iOptions Ventures Corporation. The film will star Ms. Iza Calzado, Jasmine Curtis-Smith, Meryll Soriano, Joem Bascon and an ensemble cast. I'll tell you about it soon!
In the meantime, I hope you now consider planning your next vacation in Culion to see its gentle people. I fell in love with Culion, you will too!
