ALAS PILIPINAS WOMEN VOLLEYBALL TEAM ON TO AVC 2025 FINALS

 

Congratulations to ALAS PILIPINAS Women Volleyball Team as they continue to make history in the ongoing Asian Volleyball Conference this year.

Alas Pilipinas will make it to the AVC Nations Cup Finals after the duelling match versus Chinese Taipei last night, Manila time, 25-17, 25-21, 18-25, 15-25 and the deciding 5th set 15-12. 

Eya Laure has once again proved to be crucial to Team Pilipinas during the final set together with Fifi Sharma, of course these were all made possible through the excellent sets and distribution of plays and ball possession by the team captain, Jia De Guzman. Of Laure’s nine points, six were delivered during the last set.

But of course, credit was also due to the performance of the rookies in the AVC of Mhicaela Belen who delivered 15 points, of which 11 from attacks and four blocks, as well as her 16 excellent digs and 19 excellent receives. Alyssa Solomon, and Sharma likewise contributed significantly to the campaign of the Alas Pilipinas as they poured in 12, and 10 points respectively. 

Also, the big win of the Alas women team would have not been possible if not for the guidance of head coach Jorge Souza De Brito who has kept his optimism and confidence in Team Alas Pilipinas.

The new Pontiff

 

Photo credit to original owner

Congratulations to all the Catholic faithfuls globally as the new Pope has now been chosen by the College of Cardinals. 

Born Robert Francis Prevost from Chicago, USA, is the 69 year old Cardinal  Robert who will eventually be called Pope Leo XIV. Cardinal Prevost is a member of the Augustinian order, and will now serve as the 267th pontiff.

 

LWUA’s probe on Villar’s PrimeWater a long overdue response

 

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     Whether the move of the Local Water Utilities Administration to dig deeper on the issues surrounding the Villar owned PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp. is politically motivated or they have finally found the courage to act decisively on the issue, I share the observation of Zambales 1st District Rep. Jefferson Khonghun, also House Assistant Majority Leader, that the investigation is long overdue.

Water is a primary commodity critical to the people’s daily survival especially this summer season that humidity is unbearable. 

And noting that there are 73 joint ventures agreements that PrimeWater has entered into, yet, the people, the community and the local governments are already seeking justice to their lack of essential supply should be treated with prompt action. Because the service being demanded on PrimeWater is essential to everyone’s daily life.

Among the areas seeking justice to the very poor service or no service action at all of PrimeWater includes the provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Bohol and Pangasinan. Last month I chance upon Bulacan Gov. Daniel Fernando and Vice Gov. Alex Castro aired their frustration over an online press conference asking if the Senate could help the people of Bulacan address their water issues against PrimeWater saying their complaints were left in deaf ears.

While on April 21, Cong. Khonghun used the social media Facebook to call on PrimeWater to improve their service as more and more barangays in Subic, Zambales suffer from water interruptions which has been going on as early as March. Khonghun said the Villar-owned water utilities were given sufficient time to improve their service as they suggested therefore it is also proper to seek the service they owe to the public. 

So I wonder why the Vice President of the Philippines has the courage to speak for the Villars on the issue of PrimeWater, or maybe because she is not privy to the poor quality of their service since Davao City's water is provided by Davao City Water District. 

          For my 2Cents, as a water consumer myself (thanks to Manila Water), I find the idea of LWUA investigation too lame. The problem has been there way too long, why investigate only now?  Are there not supposed to be sanctions? heads to roll? Because PrimeWater is under your jurisdiction?  You see the idea of investigating one of the business ventures of the Villars has become an issue too big to handle (for the family of a Filipino billionaire who was on the top Forbes Magazine on the Forbes op 15 list of Pinoy Billionaires,) that’s why the strategist of the Villar-Duterte camp is to connect and drag the administration on the issue as part of its “supposed” political gimmick. That the Marcos government was using the issue to attack the friends of the Dutertes? I hate to defend the Marcos, but the issue of PrimeWater is not political, rather a reality that every Filipino especially those in power should have to secure and address for the benefit of the people whether they are voters or not. I hope I am making sense here as each of us deserves a right to potable water anytime of the day.

 

BANG PINEDA, Needs to Also be Stagnate in a Team

 

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I remembered looking forward to watching Shiela Marie Pineda or popularly known as Bang Pineda, formerly of Adamson Lady Falcons during her collegiate days, and Shakey’s V-League games. 

As a former athlete myself, Bang Pineda was a lady crush back then, from a fan view, I see her timidity. She speaks less in court but looks charming and sweet. Perhaps the dimples were a factor, not to mention when she moves and flies in court you would not think she is just 160 cm or 5 foot 3 in height. Bang has been Adamson's go-to player back in those days. When she graduated I followed her still at the Shakey’s V-League, the oldest ball club in the country. It was also at the V-League that Bang started to transition from spiker to libero. While I felt it was to Bang’s disadvantage that she agreed to be a libero, as a player who stands 165 cm or 5 ft 5, I also understand that playing as a libero was one way of keeping her playing years back then.

And as the volleyball game became popular in those era where the Ateneo “FAB 5” of Fille Saint Merced Cainglet, Angeline Gervacio, Gretchen Ho, Gemenea Ferrer, and Aillyse Nachachi who when challenging their rival team DLSU Lady Spikers in the semis and finals match played by Kim Fajardo, Mika Reyes, Ara Galang, Aby Marano, Cha Cruz, and Cyd Demecillo, among others, can fill the Araneta Coliseum ( this ers also include that of Amy Ahomiro (ADMU), Bang Pineda (ADU), and Aiza Maizo (UST)), were all before Alyssa Valdez came into the picture.

Anyway back to Pineda, I hope Bang has a manager that could help her manage her career and make better choices because as I see it, the former lady falcon is now 34, and with her age she could probably play two to three more years. And as for my 2cents, the next contract of Bang is crucial for it could signal her retirement in either Philippine Super Liga and Premier Volleyball League and start transitioning from being a player to assistant coach. 

Some of you may agree with me or not, the younger collegiate players' legs these days are more powerful and faster, and they have better stamina than the veterans. And so far, the edge of the veteran players are their experiences and mental toughness that can be worked out by better coaching and excellent training programs.

So my prayers and hope for Bang Pineda that she may find her home in a team and management. True, Bang is indeed a quality player but sometimes jumping from one team to another is not also healthy considering she has been on the move from 2010 to present, from Cagayan Valley, Kia Forte, Petron, Generika, United VC, Choco Mucho, Akari, and her last club Nxled Chameleon. 

As we honor Pinoy Labor force, let us also Elect a Leader Worthy of the Seat of Power and Service

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Today, I greet all those in the working class—a fruitful Labor Day. While everyday is a challenge to make both ends meet, I pray that all workers continue to persevere for the right reason, hope and dreams you have in life for you and your loved ones.

Also, I would like to take this as an opportune time to remind all VOTERS not to let go of your rightful chance to cast your vote on May 12. We will be voting because we are electing a leader that can help us realize and have better national and local government, social services, medical attention, economic upliftment, labor opportunity, transportation relief, safety, security, and a lot more other things that can help in our day-to-day life. So please, on May 12, go out and vote.

But please DO NOT VOTE according to the so-called survey’s top SENATORIAL, CONGRESSIONAL or MAYOR contenders. Surveys are made to influence public opinion. Those who responded to the surveys are only a portion of individuals, either randomly selected or chosen to reply to a set of questions according to desired response. And most of the time those included in the poll are given names that are meant only to be included in the desired “ winnable” candidates. So technically, surveys are commissioned to suit the survey commissioner’s bias, not to mention the areas whose bailiwick can be for or against the target or opposing candidates.

Credit to original owners

Also, this midterm election has more than sufficient candidates that can be merited for his/her platform of governance, heart for public service, education, experience, background, and capabilities and NOT ONLY for political affiliation, popularity, good looks, and money. Let us all learn from the lessons of the past. If you will allow money to dictate your vote you will also carry the brunt of your choice until the next election, and for how much? But if you will risk to vote the right one, we can look forward to a much better, peaceful and brighter future for us all and for the future generations. 

Remember, if we—Filipino voters will continue to allow these unworthy elected officials to represent us whether in senate, congress, local government offices, party-lists, provincial board, and city councils no Labor Day will be enough and sufficient to give our Filipino labor force pride and justice to their works and sacrifices.

Lapu-Lapu Festivity Turns Into a Horror on the eve of Vancouver Election

 

Credit to original owner
(grabbed from screen)

Hugs to all the Filipino families that were caught victims and casualties of what was a happy and festive occasion last Saturday  at Vancouver, Canada that turned into a horror on the eve of Vancouver election. 

News reports said a black SUV car with a speed of 100 km/hr speed ran over a Filipino event passing to the group of people and stalls in celebration of Lapu-Lapu Festival around 8pm, April 26 (Vancouver time) that killed 11 people on the spot.

The Vancouver Police who have expressed sympathies to all the Filipino families affected, have arrested the suspect Kai-Ji Adam Lo, 30, for eight counts of second degree murder following the rampage of his SUV car at Lapu-Lapu Day Festival at 43rd Avenue and Fraser Streets. The Casualties range from five to 60 years old, while some casualties are still unidentified. Filipino families in search of their members that have not gone home are encouraged to coordinate with the Vancouver Police Department’s Homicide Unit. 

Again, prayers and sympathies to all our KABABAYANS who were affected by the recent tragedy. Also, I appeal for help and ask the Canadian government and Filipino communities to extend assistance to Filipinos who are still at the hospital due to that car rampage as some of them are calling for medical assistance and financial support.  

 

Presidential Merit to Philippine Iconic Women

Photo credit to original owner

I commend the national government for its effort to also recognize the great Filipino talents that the Philippines has consecutively lost this year, particularly this month of April. 

Amongst these include the most recent, the National Artist Nora Aunor, the Asia’s Queen of Songs Pilita Corrales (Nora and Pilita were once co-parent-in-law to Monching and Lotlot), and  of course Ms. Gloria Romero who was regarded as the First Lady of Philippine Cinema, as well as the renowned Chef Margarita Fores who was once recognized as Asia's Best Female Chef in 2016.

Yes, these women vary in generations but they all made the country and the Filipinos proud one way or the other. So it is proper now that the national government should give them corresponding honor to recognize their effort that brought pride, honor and distinction to our nation and to fellow Filipinos here and abroad.

Malacañang Press Officer Claire Castro has said that the Presidential Medal of Merit would be posthumously confer to Aunor, Corrales, Romero and Fores on May 4, following the issuance of Executive Order 236 which was stated in the Administrative Code of 1997, Book III, Chapter 2, Section 2.

I am no Marcos supporter nor fan, in fact I am a pro-Robredo but I commend the effort and the rational approach made by President Bongbong or whoever may have advised him on this matter, because they set aside the partisan color and leanings but focus on the moment and to mourn with the people.

    I also thank the government station and the mainstream media for not having to put too much coverage on the visit of the First Couple in paying respect to the departed icons in the entertainment industry. Because for me that was a sincere show of sympathy and respect to the bereaved families, friends and supporters.

VILLAR seen on possible violation of Comelec’s Kontra Bigay

 

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Bent on pursuing a CLEAN and PEACEFUL MIDTERM ELECTION this May 2025, the Commission on Election has been issuing left and right show cause orders against local and national candidates liable on possible election offense. 

The recent issue is now pointed to  administration senatorial aspirant Camille Villar after an anonymous complaint was allegedly filed against the congresswoman as her presence was seen in a cash raffle event on February 16 in Imus, Cavite.

Comelec Executive Dir. Teopisto Elnas Jr. of the Committee on Kontra Bigay said they are now investigating the video submitted to them that purportedly documented the supposed irregularity committed by Villar.

Among those who were previously ordered to respond to Comelec show cause orders include Pasig City Congressional candidate Atty. Ian Sia, incumbent Misamis Oriental gubernatorial candidate Peter Unabia, incumbent MataasnaKahoy Vice Mayor Jay Ilagan and Davao de Oro gubernatorial bet Ruwel Peter Gonzaga for lewd campaign remarks. The four candidates complained for alleged violations of Comelec Anti-Discrimination and Fair Campaigning Guidelines.

Also, the Comelec likewise made to explain six senatorial candidates and more than 34 part-list groups for alleged illegal campaign materials. While Pasay mayoralty candidate Editha “Wowee”  Manguera was also called to explain for her racist remark against an Indian national.

Obviously, these candidates that are made to answer to the Comelec were so confident that they forgot they are  candidates wooing the public trusts and opinions. 

As for my two-cents, these personalities should never be entrusted with position nor power because THEY WILL ALWAYS FORGET THAT THEY HAVE TO BE FAIR AND JUST AT ALL TIMES TO THEIR OPPONENTS AND MUCH TO THEIR CONSTITUENTS.

HAJJI ALEJANDRO: ANOTHER PINOY ICON DIES

THE ORIGINAL KILABOT NG MGA KOLEHIYALA and  OPM ICON ALSO DIES

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It is the summer season, yet it looks as if we are in the season of fall, as the Filipinos are losing in a matter of days icons in the entertainment industry much in the field of music.

Today, as I browsed my social media account I chanced upon a message expressing the loss of OPM legend Hajji Alejandro at the age of 70. Immediately, I verified, sadly, I saw a confirmation that Angelito Toledo born December 26, 1954, also known to the public as Hajji Alejandro, had passed away at the age of 70.

The Superstar Nora Aunor has just settled to her final resting place as the program for the National Artist for Film and Broadcast took some time to carry out at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. While Asia's Queen of Songs Pilita Corrales was only days after she was laid to her final place. Now, as Filipino fans continue to grieve ,(not to mention the Holy Father, Pope Francis also bid adieu to his priestly vocation on Easter Monday) , another “great” in the Philippine entertainment also bid his final goodbye to everyone. Following Hajji’s battle with stage 4 colon cancer that was made public in March 2025, he eventually succumbed to death. Alynna Velasquez, the OPM icon’s common law wife for 27 years was said to be the source of his condition. 

Among Hajji’s greatest hits include Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika, May Minamahal, Tag-Ulan, Tag-Araw, Panakip Butas and Nakapagtataka. Incidentally because of the popularity of Panakip Butas it was made into a movie with Hajji opposite the National Artist Nora Aunor  and it was a success. The original “Kilabot ng mga Kolehiyala” was initially part of one of the popular music bands in the ‘70s the Circus Band. However in 1980’s Hajji went to Los Angeles, America with then wife actress-beauty queen Rio Diaz who died of colorectal cancer in October 2004. Hajji and Rio were blessed with a son Ali Alejandro, also a singer. Hajji was the first winner of Metro Manila Popular Music Festival.

HOLY FATHER: POPE FRANCIS BIDS ADIEU ON EASTER MONDAY

It is with sadness that following the celebration of Easter Sunday wherein Catholics globally rejoice as God has risen from the dead, our dear Pope Francis died today, Easter Monday.

Pope Francis participated in as much as could during the Easter Sunday celebration in the Vatican. He likewise greeted the crowd from the central loggia of St. Peter's Basilica in appreciation of the Catholic devotees participation in the Holy Week tradition. The Pope’s appearance was considered a high-profile appearance as Pope Francis gave his specialaostolic blessing “urbi et orbi” [To the city (Rome) and the world) that was delivered by Archbishop Diego Ravelli. Archbishop Ravelli is the Master of Pontifical Liturgical Celebrations. After the Easter blessing at the Balcony of St Francis Square, the Pope received briefly US Vice President JD Vance.

Pope Francis, 88, was the first non-European head of the Roman Catholic Church. He served the Vatican for 12 years following his election on March 13, 2013. He was considered by Filipinos as the “Pope of the People” being named after St. Francis of Assisi. The untimely demise of Pope Francis was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrel, a top Vatican official from the Casa Sta. Marta at 7:35am, Vatican time on Easter Monday.

Mamita bids goodbye during the Lenten Season

Photo credit to Inquirer.Net

It is no surprise that God is truly calling everyone to pause, take time with Him and reflect as the Catholics observe the Lenten Season. 

In the Philippines alone so much is happening, in the sport’s front there was the PBA 50 Greatest Players Alive, the PVL-All Filipino Conference Finals wherein the Akari Chargers swept the three straight sets against Choco Mucho Titans ending the season at 24-26 scores in the final set, as well as the UAAP Season 87 Finals. As for the political arena, there’s the left and right issue of political harassment as the midterm election nears. Also, the Comelec has been issuing a series of show cause orders to different candidates in the local level for violation of election procedures. While, in the efforts to sustain peace and order there is the continuing campaign against POGO operators involving Chinese nationals and Filipinos, ongoing haunt against kidnap for ransom groups, as well as the rampant criminalities associated with minor students.

Meanwhile, on the entertainment side there’s the controversy involving Dennis Padilla claiming he has done reaching out to his children with Marjorie Barretto, after he was seated with the guest at the church in what was supposedly an intimate wedding of daughter Claudia Barretto to longtime boyfriend Basti Lorenzo. 

And today, the news of the untimely passing of Asia’s Queen of Songs Pilita Corrales, also known as Maria del Pilar Garrido Corrales was announced via social media post of one of “Mamitas” granddaughters’ actress Janine Gutierrez. The Filipinos mourn the passing of Mamita as she was fondly called because Pilita was not only known for her vocal style and backbend but also for her kindness and sweetness, not to mention her excellent performance as a pop singer, songwriter, actress, comedian and television presenter. Mamita was a native of Lahug, Cebu. She recorded 135 albums in her six decade career. Pilita left her two beloved children Jackielou and Ramon Christopher, who are both good actors from various genres and generations.

Such incidents are painful for any family who have lost a loved one---but at the same time it is also a reminder to us.

 

Let us not wait to be called by God through trials before we take time and welcome Him in our daily lives.

 So as the culmination of   the lenten season nears please take advantage of that moment you have        to reflect and talk to Him, better to at least spare some time to visit the church and connect with the Lord.

NATIONAL ARTIST NORA AUNOR BIDS FINAL GOODBYE

Bye Ate Guy—National Artist Nora Aunor bids “last goodbye

Credit to original owner

Indeed, Holy Week is truly a sacrifice for the offsprings of “mag-balae” Pilita Corrales and Nora Aunor

As everyone prepares for Holy Thursday and Black Friday for the traditional “Pabasa” and “Visita” where Catholics traditionally flock the churches to observe Lenten tradition, another sad news came—Nora Cabaltera Villamayor a.k.a Nora Aunor passes away at 71.

Nora, who was first recognized by Filipinos for her voice for championing in “The Tawag ng Tanghalan” passed on April 16, 2025 while in the hospital. Ate Guy, whom she was fondly called, hailed from Iriga City and survived by children who are also from the entertainment industry Lotlot, Kristoffer Ian and Matet De Leon. In 1975, Nora was married to veteran actor Christopher “Boyet” De Leon but was annulled in 1996 . 

Nora Aunor also tagged as the “Superstar”  had five decades of career as an actress, film producer, recording artist, and stage actress and singer conferred her the “The Order of National Artist of the Philippines” in 2022 by the Philippine President. Among her other recognitions include:

• The Outstanding Women in Nation's Service (TOWNS) in the Field of Art, 1999
• The only Filipino film actress included in the lists of awardees by the Green Planet Movie Awards as one of the“10 Asian Best Actresses of the Decade”, 2010
• Ani ng Dangal (Harvest of Honor) from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, 2013, 2014, 2016
• The Light of Culture Awards from the Philippine Centre of the Int’l Theatre Institute and ITI-Earthsavers UNESCO Dream Center for pioneering in the integration of theater, television, and film, 2014.

The Hollywood Reporter also labeled Ate Guy as The Grand Dame of the Philippine Cinema for her stint in the films TAKLUB (Trap) and HUSTIYA (Justice). 

Among her classic movies Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos (1977), Ina Ka ng Anak Mo (1980), Bulaklak ng City Jail (1985), Bilangin Ang Mga Bituin Sa Langit (1990), The Flor Contemplacion Story (1996), and Pieta (2024). 

Pilita Corrales the Asia’s Queen of Songs and Nora Aunor were co-parents-in-law to then couple Ramon Christopher Gutierrez and Lotlot De Leon (also known as Charlotte Jennifer Rodriguez Olson in real life) from 1989 to 2010, the two died four days apart. Thus, making it extremely painful to Monching and Lotlot children actress Janine, Jessica, Diego and Maxine Gutierrez.

PETRO GAZZ ANGELS ‘ TAKES HOME 1ST ALL FILIPINO CROWN IN PVL

 

Photo credit to the original owner

The Petro Gazz Angels have written a new history at the PVL-All Filipino Conference after taking down the crowd favorite Creamline Cool Smashers in the 4th set.

With excellent digs, sharp crosscourt hits, and closing the net to Creamline offense, no wonder Petro Angels emerged supreme in the race to two extended finals of the All Filipino Championship games witnessed by 11,000 live crowds at the PhilSports Arena on Saturday, April 12.

Joy Dacoron, who did not play in game number one of the PVL finals, has played a significant game for the Angels in the finals match. Jema Galanza on the other hand stepped up for the Creamline in the absence of Alyssa Valdez at the court in the 1st set with the support of veteran Michelle Gumabao. Personally, I commend the six consecutive blocks of the Angels against the Creamline that made the matchup extra-exciting because the game tied at 15 a piece in the 1st set. 

Photo credit to original owner

Meanwhile, to temper the adrenalin of Petro Gazz, Alyssa was pulled in at 16-19 in favor of the Angels and immediately delivered a point. However, as both teams ran out of timeouts, the Cool Smashers failed to stop the coming from behind of Petro Gazz, finishing the 1st set at 25-21. 

MJ Phillips also contributed to Angel’s effort not only on the net but also on the offense during the second set. While Jonah Sabete also showed consistency in the net, service and offense to add to the campaign of the Angels, as Chie Saet’s long years as a veteran player paid off and could be seen in her sets, thus dictating the tempo in favor of Petro Gazz as Creamline’s defense crumbled ending the 2nd set at 16-25 favoring the Angels.

In the 3rd set, Creamline coach Sherwin Meneses called an early time out at 1-4 to pep talk his teams and prevent the lead of Petro Gazz. Kyle Negrito who was having a hard time setting up for Creamline likewise stepped up in the net defense earning a couple of points for Creamline. The table turned with a seven to zero run of Creamline that gave a 17 to 19 lead to CCS. However, Brooke Van Sickle could not agree more as she took care of the digs and offense consecutively that tied the game at 21 a piece.  But Creamline did not succumb to the pressure and took the point one at a time again, ending the 3rd set at 23-25 to favor the Smashers. 

Photo credit to original owner

Petro Gazz took the early lead in the 4th set at 2-5 forcing an early challenge from the CCS. Bernadette Pons delivered for the Creamline at 5-7 as she blocked Phillips. Lorie Bernardo sustained the magic for the Creamline from  3rd to 4th set and managed to steal a game play and score for the Cool Smashers everytime Petro Gazz attempted to inch away. 

Pressure was sinking in both teams at 15-15 which later pave the way for the Angels to advance the lead at 16-15. However, Pons continued to resist and tied the ball at 16. 

Creamline even goes all offense as they pulled out Negrito at 17-18. But Brooke managed to keep the torch for the Petro Gazz, sustaining a two  point lead 18-20, followed by another offense from Aiza Maiso-Pontillas at 18-21. Dacuron also showed consisyency in her game as she adds to the scoring---followed by Van Sickle who brought the Angels to match point at 19-24. But it was the attack punctuated by the cramping Sabete that ended the All Filipino season at 19-25 score thus writing a new history for the PVL-AFC in favor of Petro Gazz Angels.

Meanwhile, the Akari Chargers in an earlier game at the PhilSports Arena had swept the three sets against the Choco Mucho Flying Titans that earned them the Bronze Medalist title. While the Creamline took home the Silver Medal Awards.

Holy Week not only for staycation, relaxation or free from work but also a time for God

 

Photo credit to National Shrine 
of Our Lady of the Abandoned
Sta Ana, Manila

This coming  Holy Week, I hope Catholics will not only look after the days off, and the chance to go out of town but also observe the religious practice.

This Palm Sunday is the prelude to Holy Week, the culmination of the Lenten Season. And for the last 30 days the Catholic church and the priests are encouraging the members of the community and the religious to exercise abstinence, fasting, make sacrifices, reach out to the poor, help the Church and if possible conform with the preaching.

Photo credit to National Shrine 
of Our Lady of the Abandoned
Sta Ana, Manila

The lent started on Ash Wednesday last March 5 where we are reminded that we came from dust and to dust we shall return. I know it is never easy to conform but we can always try to abide at least during this Holy Week as a way to honor God. 

My life’s version of penitence, an early Holy Week trial (today, Friday, April 11)

Indeed, God has His way of calling our attention and testing us how well we have learned, willing to follow, and how to forgive and understand in the midst of man-made disaster. And to this writing, I am still displeased from the incident.

It was almost lunch time, my partner was wrapping up her online-meeting since she was working from home, when I heard an overflowing water but could not identify where it was coming from, our faucet was off, no one was using the water. 

By the way, I am living in a bachelor-size ground floor room with my partner. It is an old semi-wooden apartment compound. On top of us there are two other units.  Anyway, soon enough my partner hang-up and did the same. She was searching where the huge sound of water was coming until it one-by-one created its entry and dug holes from various parts of our ceiling that we two could no longer contain and attend to. Instinct dictates, my partner went up and asked the unit directly on top of us and checked if they were using the water and explained it's leaking to us, and the guy replied, no. 

So, my partner called on the other unit, it appeared it was from them since they were having their aircon cleaning service. But it wasn’t an easy admission that the cleaning process they did was all wrong and affected us due to the huge water leak. We went through an exchange of words and had the housewife of the other unit enter our room to see the damage they have caused us. After a while she called on us and said sorry. My partner also apologized not for her behaviour but for the anger it brought to her, to us, because of the effect of their actions, as she had to stop working and attend to everything—cleaning the mess, shutting down the electricity, saving whatever could be saved from possible damage, and look for our flashlights and a lot other things. For those who still don’t know me, movement is part of my lifetime challenge being a stroke survivor myself.

Dennis Padilla over daughter Claudia's wedding

Have you heard the recent buzz where apparently Dennis Padilla was invited to her daughter Claudia Barretto’s wedding? 

I heard and read about it earlier today but did not pay much attention because for me, it was just a “knee-jerk reaction”, but then now, for almost the whole day as I first chance upon the story at about 5am this Thursday, every time I scroll my social media account there was so much of Padilla’s reaction over being seated as a guest to his daughter’s wedding, and that he was being “budol” by his children.

In a previous interview with Dennis some years back, he shared his hope that when someday his daughters (Julia or Claudia) would be married he wanted at least to see them and be part of the ceremony. Then, that one day came, Claudia Barretto finally decided to tie the knot with her longtime boyfriend Sebastian Lorenzo. No one knew the event was forthcoming, perhaps it was just the family circle and really close allies of the couple as I learned that the Lorenzos were from a “buena familia” noting that Sebastian is a brother of Erich Gonzales’ husband Mateo Lorenzo. And like the Gonzales-Sebastian nuptials the ceremony was kept very private, but the supposed intimate ceremony of "Claudia and Basti" was now a social media slur where unsolicited opinions of the public were thrown out to them.

I would not dare say or comment about whether what happened right or wrong but it may help us understand to know where the camp of the Barretto’s are coming from: 

How is Dennis Padilla’s relation to his children? 

Did Dennis provide for them (Julia, Claudia and Leon) when he and Marjorie separated?

Is he visible to his children’s lives, at least when they were growing up and the presence of the father was a must in schools? 

How about on Christmas, birthdays, and graduations? 

Has he always been a supportive father? 

Or is it just in recent years that Dennis wanted to be part of his children's lives again? 

AKARI CHARGERS TAKES GAME1 OF BATTLE FOR BRONZE

 

Despite the series of errors the Akari Chargers managed to sustain the lead in the final stretch for the battle for bronze against Choco Mucho Flying Titans during the first meeting at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Flying Titans were in fact in charge of the game during the first-two sets with 24-26 and 21-25 all in favor of the Titans. However, the narratives flipped in the 3rd set as Justine Jazareno showed strong signs of business as usual. While the floor defense was taken care of by the Akari squad, guarding the net was a concerted effort of the Chargers’ Faith Nisperos, Ivy Lacsina, Ely Soyud, as well as Gretchel Soltones.  Akari also limited the Choco Mucho into a low scoring game and forced them to commit errors which sustained their run until the 4th sets ending the games at 25-15 and 25-18, forcing the race for bronze into the deciding 5th set with a final score of 15-11 registering a three sets win for the Chargers.

Soyud who carried the torch for the Chargers with 34 points. However, the big win of Akari will not be equally possible without the assistance and effort of the libero Jazareno who poured in 29 excellent digs, 1 excellent reception, for a total of 60 percent dig efficiency.

HOLY WEEK A GOOD TIME TO REFLECT

Photo credit to Minor Basilica of Black Nazarene

          As the lenten week nears, let us also take at least a MOMENT either before we sleep, or before you get up to prepare for another busy day, before starting your work, after office, while caught up in a traffic, or whatever time is available---make use of that alone time to reflect.

Who will reign supreme: CREAMELINE vs PETRO GAZZ

Will Creamline bag its 11th Championship crown or the 2nd finals appearance of Petro Gazz Angeles make history?

Who will reign supreme as the veteran teams–Petro Gazz Angels and Creamline Cool Smashers entered the finals in the 2024-2025 PVL-All Filipino Conference last Thursday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Petro Gazz swept the three sets outing versus Akari Chargers in the first game of the semifinals at 22-25, 20-25, and 18-25 all in favor of the Angels. While the Cool Smashers not only swept the three sets but also limited the scoring of its Rebisco sister Choco Mucho Flying Titans to less than 20 points per meeting, after it registered a 19-25 , 15-25 and 15-25 win in the main game at Smart Araneta on April 3.

So, the question is, will the Creamline clinch this year’s All Filipino Conference  title to add to the three of 10 Cool Smasher’s championship crowns, or the equally veteran team Petro Gazz Angels write a new volleyball narrative with the lead of Myla Pablo as the “Player of the Game” against Akari Chargers. On Thursday, Pablo has outnumbered the output of Brooke Van Sickle who has 15 points and nine digs.l, as Pablo contributed a total of 16 pts, 11 attacks, 4 blocks, 1 ace, 3 excellent digs, and 5 excellent receptions. However,  Creamline’s Kyle Negrito produced 17 excellent sets, 3 points, 3 attacks, and 5 excellent digs making her the “Player of the Game” against the Flying Titans.

This year’s final series’ race to two will start on Tuesday, April 8 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. The opening game would be supplemented by Akari Chargers and Choco Mucho Flying Titans to determine the third spot of the conference. (photo credit to InquirerSports, PVLPH, OnePh)

AN APPEAL FOR PRAYER FOR MYANMAR

Myanmar after the 7.7 intensity quake
on Friday, March 28.

As I personally rejoice on Friday the successful run of young Filipina–Alex Eala, 19, who cemented her professional rank from over 140 to 75, ending this year’s Miami tennis, I was clueless that the people in our neighboring countries Thailand and Myanmar were experiencing a deadly phenomenon. 

On Friday, March 28, about 12:50 noontime, the people of Myanmar and Thailand were rocked by a 7.7 intensity earthquake. Fortunately, there were no Filipinos reportedly hurt from the tragedy, but sadly for Myanmar the death toll—as of Saturday was said to have reached 1644, according to the Myanmar government. 

While rescue efforts are still continuing, the number of local people injured have so far ballooned to 3,400, and missing people were accounted for 139 after the quake jolted Mandalay region which is said to be the epicenter in Myanmar. As for Thailand, there were 10 people who were reported to have died from the quake.

To everyone, whatever your religion and faith is, let us join together and PRAY FOR THE PEOPLE OF MYANMAR, let us embrace them through prayers they need it badly.

TRULY–IT WAS A GOOD FIGHT, ALEX!

photo credit to Inquirer

MY2Cents:

The Philippines tennis sensation Alex Eala may have fallen short of her run in the semifinals of the Miami Open but it was a very, very good fight.

The 19 year old Alexandra Maniego Eala was a pride to watch during that three hour matchup against the world's No 4, American, Jessica Pegula, 31. And it was affirmed by Pegula herself by stating in a live interview shortly after the game that Alex doesn't need anyone to tell her how good she was. 

Alex made many beautiful hits during the game despite the ankle injury and sore leg, because even the game annotators could attest to it by saying “Pegula is a local but the crowd here were mostly for Eala.”

Many have prayed for Alex–it was good, and I hope more Filipinos would show support to Alex, as well as to other athletes. But, perhaps this year is not yet for our young lady tennis warrior, anyway Eala is now ranked 75th from her previous 140 record following her victory against the world No 2 Iga Swiatek on Thursday, Manila time. Alex had so much experienced and learnings from this semis that she surely would want to pick up to help improve her skills. 

Again, good game to our young tennis hero, Alex Eala!  

PH ALEX EALA PULLED IT ANEW

SPORTS HERO ALEX EALA PULLED IT ANEW—TAKES OUT PHILIPPINES MOMENTARILY FROM POLITICAL QUANDARY, EXTRAJUDICIAL KILLINGS TO ANOTHER SPORT’S HISTORY

Congratulations to Philippines' new tennis hero Alex Eala, as well as to her parents, family and tennis team. Indeed, all your hardwork and determination pulled off. Yes, the Miami Open is not yet over, but you have proven yourself time and again that nothing is impossible when you dream and you’re working hard for it. Your impressive victory against the world No.2 Iga Swiatek at the Miami Open was a testament to that. 

Because of your relentless drive, Filipinos right now could once more see and wave our flag with pride knowing that the 19 year old Eala is once more making a mark in tennis history ot just for herself but for the country, as well. 

And as the first quarter of the 2025 wind up, where political turmoil and scandal is beaming for Filipinos not just locally but also internationally due to the issues of crimes against humanity being charged against ex-president Rodrigo Duterte, and political division  as an offshoot of the breakup of Marcos-Duterte’s UniTeam. By the way, the UniTeam was created in 2022 aimed to secure the victory of then presidential and vice presidential candidates Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Sara Duterte. But for some reasons the political team drifted apart throwing allegations versus President Marcos as an addict and incapable, as well as the threat to assassinate the First Couple including House Speaker Martin Romualdez, as well as to dig up the grave of former president Marcos Sr and throw it to the sea. 

Meanwhile the Vice President Office's use of intelligence funds has been questioned, VP Sara now is subjected to an impeachment case, while political supporters of the Duterte’s were being linked to various illegal offshore gaming in the country, kidnapping and other crimes. And the most recent development was the detention of ex-president Duterte after he was said to have been state kidnapped as alleged by ex-president Duterte’s children. 

And what further stirs the political climate in the country these days as midterm elections are now in full swing is the rampant spread of FAKE NEWS especially in the social media. The pro-DU30 camp are alleging that the arrest of the older Duterte was planned to cover up the detention of the First Lady in the United States following the death of Paolo Tantoco who was part of Mrs. Marcos’ US entourage.

Therefore, Alex Eala’s series of victories in this ongoing Miami Open is truly a big relief not just for our beloved Alex but also to the Filipino community as well, here and abroad. Noting the rift between these two powers has been pulling the Filipinos down, when in truth, there are other more pressing concerns and problems to address, and there are more meaningful and worthy leaders that should be given the seats that these two top leaders have taken over.

REALITY NOW SETTING IN

 

My Two Cents on FPRRDs Crime Against Humanity Case at the ICC: Is Reality Now Setting In? 

As I see things from that unsettling March 11, the realities are now dawning on former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s family and political camp following his detention at the International Criminal Court due to his bloody illegal drugs war.

Duterte was arrested on March 11, upon his return to the country after a short trip to Hong Kong to which he made the remark, “If I’m arrested, if I’m detained, so be it,” as he addressed Filipino supporters at Southorn Stadium in Wan Chai district on March 9. Thus, at exactly 11:03 pm, Manila time of the same day, the private plane onboard the ex-president flew to The Hague, with former executive secretary Atty. Salvador Medialdea and daughter Veronica “Kitty” Duterte, as his escorts together with some members of the Philippine National Police and International Police Organization. 

Undeniably, no pro-DU30 allies accepted the arrest calmly. There were allegations of conspiracy, cover up, and state kidnapping. And from the state kidnapping allegation of Vice President Sarah Duterte in an ambush interview at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, to realizations? 

Four days after the arrest, the VP claimed she doesn’t harbor any ill feelings towards anyone, including that of National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano, who also served as former Interior and Local Government chief to the “Punisher”. 

“Honestly, I don’t feel anything at all. I’m not angry, I’m not disappointed. Nothing at all — because it’s pointless to harbor any feelings about what happened. It can’t be undone. President Duterte can no longer be brought back to the Philippines,” the Vice President said. She likewise  added,

 

“So what we should do as a country is move on from what happened. The question is, what will we do moving forward as a nation and as a people? Whether we get angry or not, our anger will lead us nowhere,” she said. 

And as week two of the detention, the VP is on a different tune, while the Congress discovered more food names without birth certificate records on the used of the Office of the Vice President’s intelligence fund receipts to add to the likes of previous record like Mary Grace Piattos, Chippy McDonald, Fernando Tempura, and Carlos Oishi. Recently, there were Jay Kamote and Miggy Mango while other invoice bore names with a series of “Dodong” recipients such as Dodong Alcala, Dodong Bina, Dodong Bunal, Dodong Darong, and Dodong S. Barok.

On the other hand, Malacanang maintains its stand that there was no political hand in the arrest of the former president, noting the ICCs investigation came way ahead of Marcos Jr becoming a president. President Bongbong stressed the Punisher’s anti drug drive was initiated during his incumbency as mayor of Davao in 2016. He likewise clarified that Malacanang only honored its commitment to Interpol. But while the national government maintained that it will continue the anti-drug war minus the killings, the VP is now using the European crowd associating the fate of the late national hero, former senator Benigno Aquino Sr. to what she claimed could also be the fate of DU30, to be assassinated.

On Monday, March 24, fake news surrounding the return of Duterte to the country on March 26, following the decision of ICC President Judge Tomoko Akane to dismiss Duterte’s crime against humanity  made rounds in various social media platforms.

My two cents, the inconsistencies on the statements that one with the “I don't harbor ill feelings to the assassination threat on the life of Duterte, obviously, there’s an attempt to once more hype the situation, as if agitation is needed from the pro-DU30 supporters, to put further pressure to the government to act for the release of the ex-president. Why? Because everything went out of hand.

 

PHILIPPINES: The Pearlof the Orient Seas

As the Philippine history is being written anew due to the recent developments in the country’s political landscape following the breakup of Team Unity of the Marcoses and the Dutertes, the Southeast Asia’s “Pearl of the Orient Seas” once more is into the international scene after the national government agreed to honor its commitment to the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) on the arrest order of former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte (FPRRD).

On March 11, 2025, at exactly 11:03pm, Manila time, onboard a private plane, FPRRD together with his ex-executive secretary Salvador Medialdea and youngest daughter, Kitty Duterte left the country escorted by the elements of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and members of the Interpol and delivered to International Criminal Court (ICC) in the Hague, Netherlands for the crimes against humanity being alleged to Duterte following his anti-drug war that stemmed from 2011 to 2019 during his stint as Davao City Mayor until his regime in Malacanang.

While the families of the 30,000 victims of alleged extrajudicial killings, including former senator Leila Delima, priests, nuns, and human rights groups claimed the arrest of Duterte is only part of the initial due process that the families of the victims can look forward to, Duterte’s camp including the country’s Vice President Sarah Duterte, older daughter of the former president, labeled her father’s arrest as oppression and persecution noting the national government masterminded what she said as “state kidnapping” to be able to carry out the arrest.

As for the Pre-Trial Chamber of the ICC on Friday, March 14, Duterte’s confirmation of charges hearing was set on Sept. 23, 2025, after the latter’s identity was verified. 

As for my two cents, the arrest of ICC—the court of last resort to FPRRD could signal to any powerful leader that is also being charged by their respective people that a day of reckoning would one day come. Therefore, it is important to carry out their rules and policies humanely and ensure that there is justice and fairness to all.

Philippines: The Asia's Pearl of the Orient Seas

DAY OF RECKONING

photo credit to Philippine Daily Inquirer

Manila, Philippines--At about 11:03pm, Tuesday, March 11, 2025 the plane carrying the former president Rodrigo Duterte left bound for the Hague.

Earlier that day an arrest order was issued against Duterte for crimes against humanity. It can be recalled that 12,000 to 30,000 were killed in Duterte’s war against illegal drugs during his term.

And to quote FPRRD in January 2018 one his marching orders delivered in Davao City, “That’s our deal. When I said that you go and destroy the drug industry, destroying means destroying, including human life.”   

Suddenly, the tables have turned—the pro-Duterte people including ex-Malacanang spokesman Harry Roque who have been in hiding for months now are speaking, calling on people for Duterte because he was arrested by the International Criminal Court for the death of thousands of Filipino people in his drug war. 

For me, it’s these kinds of people that are mocking the Philippine Constitution and the country’s justice system—suddenly talking about due process, sovereignty, illegal arrest, and justice only because they felt the process was unfair for them? But what about those 30,000 people and their families that were stripped off their rights, granting they were addicts or drug peddlers, they too have a right to live and to be heard.

May this recent development involving the former president serves as a lesson to all that "WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND", so better be careful.

photo credit to Veritas 846