1st filipino to own a property in the moon is a boholano; and other 'juicy' items

1^st Filipino who owns a property in the moon is a Boholano; and other “juicy” items

Proem:

· Food for the soul: Live your life the way you drink your coffee. Sipping it slowly, enjoying the flavor and aroma, drinking it to the last drop. In short, take it easy, be happy. This text message is from Josie Montes, municipal local government operations officer of Catigbian town.

· This is interesting. Palindromes- word or sentence that reads the same backwards and forwards. 1) Murder for a jar of red rum, 2) Never odd or even, 3) No lemon no melon, 4) Nurse, I spy gypsies. Run!, 5) Party booby trap, 6) Was it a car or a cat I saw?, 7) Yo, banana boy!, 8) Ten animals I slam in a net. Cool noh? Interesting! More, more, more!

· Good luck and bring home the bacon to Nathalim Rose “Baby Rose” Nalupa, Bb. Maribojoc Ube Queen 2007, who will be Bohol’s representative to the Ms. Central Visayas Corn Festival. This piece of news is channeled to True by Yking Echavia, the project manager of the Bb. Maribojoc 2007 (which was held on April 29 and sponsored by the SVI Alumni Association Maribojoc ). The Miss Central Visayas Corn Fest will be held in Toledo City on August 23. Nathalim Rose is a first year nursing student at the Holy Name University. The Ms. Central Visayas Corn Festival is sponsored by the Department of Agriculture. Sec. Ace Durano is expected to grace the pageant.

· Could it be true that the people of Candijay were rejoicing (others have thrown a party, note: a drinking spree) over Boom Boom’s defeat in the World Cup Boxing last Sunday? The boxing icon’s defeat became a talk of the town here and abroad. Just for one round, de Leon knocked down Boom Boom. At www.tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com, you can read different reactions. Worst, they are accusing Gov. Erico Aumentado (after an article was published at the Philippine Daily Inquirer) on a project the governor had promised to Boom Boom (read: Boom Boom’s village loses road project after boxer’s loss). On the hand, it was a “hot” topic on our local radio stations that Boom Boom’s family have changed a lot, from meek to not so meek. If they changed a lot, there’s nothing wrong about it. They have something to be proud of. But a text message which was sent to me (of course, an anti-Boom Boom) said that “Boom Boom and his family have forgotten where they cam from. It’s so sad that they allow money to control their lives.” I’ve had heard Atoy Cosap praising the Boholano boxer and the veteran broadcaster didn’t miss to mention the issue involving Boom Boom’s family. There are many circumstances and many tales. As Mike commented, “It’s not about Boom-boom. This is about character, the attitude of the heart.”

· Speaking of Boom Boom, True US-based Very Reliable Source (VRS) who attended the fight shared this “uncanny” info that perhaps the Mexican people had “cast a spell” or “curse” Boom Boom. Before the fight, Boom Boom was in good condition. When he was in the ring, suddenly he became weak. A “force” had sipped all his energy and it was easy for de Leon to finish him for good. Spells are common in the third world countries. They believe on the power of the amulets and prayers. In games, players have beliefs on “sumpa” to win against the enemies. Or, was it the prayers of the people of Candijay were heard by the “unseen” people and granted their hearts’ desire? Believe it or not!

· While Boom Boom is defeated, Gov. Erico Aumentado is no excuse of “malicious” report. Gov. Aumentado a big Disgrace to the Boholanos, says Boom-boom fans. In an interview with the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Aumentado said: “If Boom-Boom becomes a champion, I will fulfill my commitment that I will have the road passing through his barangay (village) in Can-uling cemented. Right now, it’s a no go.” While many said that the governor is a disgrace, Arlaine Cecile Berdin, a concerned citizen cum Boholana commented at tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com: Boom-boom’s village did not lose a project. Governor Aumentado clarified that it will still push through when the time comes.wa man na mag-agad sa kadaugan ni Boom-boom oi. Getting a belt in boxing by a constituent is not a prerequisite of a road project. and I don’t think the governor does not know that gilain lang og sabot sa uban kay they are loaded. Just because they don’t like the governor, whatever he does, automatic sayop na dayon and this leads us to fallacies.

· Could it be true that an “unknown and less recognized agent” (read: manpower provider in Tagbilaran City, to the tune of one of Nora Aunor’s movies) is all “anger” when he heard that he was not “hired” by a Manila-based agent to handle an event here in Bohol? According to VRS, a Manila-based agent was calling this “unknown and less recognized agent” as he was recommended by another agent to handle an event, lately, the Manila- based agent found someone. When this “unknown and less recognized agent” learned this, his friend (connected to the company that the event is being handled) questioned the kawawang nilalang’s (coordinator of the Manila-based company) credibility. The “unknown and less recognized agent” has been telling that this kawawang nilalang has no “value” and “less experienced.” If they know who’s this kawawang nilalang theyy are “underestimating.” Look, who’s kawawa. See what money and greed can do that they “harm” a person just because they’re thinking they are better. Better? The lesson? You don’t have to underestimate people. Kawawang nilalang says, Sila ang mga taong naghahangad ng kasaganaan sa buhay pero puso’y namamatay! Dot it again and True will unmask you next time.

· As Holy Name University (HNU) turns 60 this year, the administration thru Fr. Ernesto Lagura, SVD is giving better services to the students. With the MyHNU SIm powered by Globe, the personalized SIM exclusively for the students can “change” their lives. Sa MyHNU SIM, ang lakas mo!

· Watch your favorite movies at the Island City Mall’s Screenville Cinema. Screenville is the first modern cinema outside Metro Manila. Ready to fall in love with A Love Story starring Aga Muhlach, Maricel Soriano and Angelica Panganiban, which according to publicist Ariel Fullido and Screenville manager John Bosco Lupot, “a must see!”

***

Last week, news at SPACE.com caught my attention. It’s about a passenger can travel to the moon on the flight manifest of a space tourist company.

The news says, the price per seat will slap your wallet or purse for a swift $100 million - but you’ll have to get in line as the first voyage is already booked.

Space Adventures, headquartered in Vienna, Virginia, is in negotiations with the customers who will fly the first private expedition to circumnavigate the Moon.

Call it lunar leap: free return promo. A Space Adventures team has blueprinted a circumlunar mission using a unique blend of existing and flight-tested Russian technology. At the heart of the lunar leap is Russia’s venerable Soyuz spacecraft. A pilot and two passengers would depart Earth in their Soyuz, linking up in orbit with an unpiloted kick stage for a boost outward to the Moon.

Sales are up for future public hops to the orbiting outpost. Customers are lined up for Soyuz seats to the ISS in 2008, in 2009, and potentially beyond, Anderson said.

”We’re trying to talk to the Russian Space Agency about how to increase the numbers of Soyuz flights to the space station. It is scheduled to go from two to four in late 2009...but there may be ways to increase the number of Soyuz flights even beyond that in the future,” Anderson noted. “My confidence level is high,” he said, that those seats can be filled with customers.

To date, Space Adventures has sold almost $200 million worth of spaceflights. They’ve booked flights into the future, even selling a couple more than the company has announced. Their clients have spent some 60 days cumulatively in Earth orbit.

And there remains another exploit for the public space traveler to master - a space walk.

Years from now, the moon is the next tourist attraction. But do you know that the person Filipino who bought a property in the moon (the celestial object orbiting our planet Earth) is a Boholano? He is Natalio Dahab Tabacco from Taloto District, Tagbilaran City. The cost was minimal. It’s the thought that he jumped at the opportunity when the idea was no farfetched. He has a title to show for it.

Natalio is still alive. He is enjoying at his prime.

“Yes, it’s true. He’s still alive and living in New York,” environmentalist and entrepreneur Zenaida Darunday (who runs the Darunday Manor located along J.A. Clarin Street, Tagbilaran City, Tel no: 411- 2512). In fact, Zenaida said Natalio was included in a souvenir handbook by the Tagbilaran Association of Northern California (Tanocal) on its silver jubilee.

Natalio accomplished an exceptional feat of being the 1st Filipino International Civil Service Career person by joining the United Nations during its founding years in 1946 and serving until his retirement in 1978.

In the history of Filipino migration to the US, he too is the first, long before the “second wave” (migration of professionals) started in the early 1960s. (The first Boholano teachers sent to the US in 1903 to be trained under the Pensionado program were Eduardo Ramirez and Zacarias Rocha. Gaudioso Ferniz and his brother Joe were the first Boholanos who went to the US in 1920s.)

Natalio is featured in the book “The Filipino Americans from 1763 to the present: Their history, culture and traditions,” by Veltisezar Bautista, which carries the following citation:

“A World War II veteran, Natalio Tabacco holds the distinction of being the first Filipino to be recruited by the United Nations Secretariat in 1946. Born on July 23, 1918 in barrio (now Barangay) Taloto, Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Tabacco received the UN Peace Medal for Outstanding Service to the UN in 1976. This is the highest medal of honor given to an individual working for the cause of international peace through the UN.”

***

A crime wave has hit the city as thieves, muggers, hold-uppers and other lawless elements take advantage of the society. They know that the authorities are too “distracted” getting organized or being tired from work, so these criminals are having a heyday.

A text message which is now circulated in town warns us to to “rally against crime in this city. Enough is enough! How many more people have to die for us to realize that Bohol is becoming a breeding ground for criminals.”

One shocking news is about Jack Lloren Arat. Jack was a known dance instructor in Bohol. As a student at the University of Bohol, Jack had particppated in numerous ballroom dancing competitions until he moved to the Bohol Tropics as part of the team. While at the Bohol Tropics, Jack was handling special projects of Lazer Party Club.

When Bohol was in drought of models for the past years, it was Jack who “rejuvenated” the “industry.” He gave life to the dead “industry” in Bohol. There was Runwayicons, a modeling agency but the “modeling house” closed after months of its operation. Jack was “braved” to venture in modeling business until he founded the Unlimited Models. Jack and his models made Tagbilaran lively again.

Last August 13, Jack joined his Creator. He was murdered by unknown suspects. While, he was rushed to the hospital, Jack was still conscious, in fact, the doctor asked him who did it to him. Jack didn’t give answer. For sure, Jack knew the suspects.

Rest assured Jack is watching them to ask for justice.

Baba Yap, Lazer Party Club big boss sent this message to True, the day Jack passed away. I am shocked and deeply grieved to hear the sudden demise of our beloved Jack Arat. His death is a great loss to his family and friends. Though he has departed from our visibility, he is still with us in our hearts. May he rest in eternal peace.

***

If Philippines is the pearl of the orient seas and Malaysia is truly Asia, then Singapore is new Asia. Mention Singapore and people will tell you about Sentosa. More than Sentosa, it’s uniquely Singapore. Fresh from a Singapore tour is Eden Descallar, the young workaholic (and beautiful) Globe Telecom Bohol-OIC (soon to be manager) who went there for a short vacation (read: naglaag laag ang sosyal!) with friends.

The Lonely Planet has listed Singapore as a tourism hub. Singapore has traded in its rough-and-ready opium dens and pearl luggers for towers of concrete and glass, and its steamy rickshaw image for cool efficiency and spotless streets, but you can still recapture the colonial era with a Singapore Sling under the languorous ceiling fans at Raffles Hotel.

At first glance, Singapore appears shockingly modern and anonymous, but this is an undeniably Asian city where Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions from feng shui to ancestor worship create part of the everyday landscape - colorful contrasts that bring the city to life.

A short vacation in Singapore is definitely not enough if you want to eat and breathe Singapore. There is much to see and do. From the famed Chili Crab and Hainanese Chicken Rice to Sentosa Island and the Singapore Zoological Gardens.

You will not believe how clean and green the city is until you set foot here. The spotless highways and the surrounding flora are proof of what you have heard from other friends and relatives. Experience for yourself the towering skyscrapers in the business district, the hustle and bustle of the Orchard Road shopping belt or the friendly chatter of Singaporeans going about their daily tasks in the heartlands.

The Merlion was designed as an emblem for the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) in 1964. The designer was Mr Fraser Brunner, a member of the souvenir committee and a curator of the Van Kleef Aquarium.

The Merlion has a lion head and a fish body resting on a crest of waves. The lion head symbolizes the legend of the rediscovery of Singapura, as recorded in the “Malay Annals.”

Famous landmarks are Underwater World Sans Kevin Costner. Sentosa’s saving grace, Gracie the dugong, is Underwater World’s star performer. Leafy sea-dragons and wobbling Medusa jellyfish are mesmeric; stingrays and ten-foot sharks cruise above Ocean Colony’s submerged glass tubes at 9am to 9pm

Orchard Rd. Sheer Indulgence. Famous by name, Orchard Rd was once was lined with nutmeg and pepper plantations. Today it’s the domain of Singapore’s elite and well-heeled tourists, lured here by the shopping centers, nightspots, restaurants, bars and lounges. A showcase for the material delights of capitalism, Orchard Rd also possesses some sights of cultural interest where a credit card is not required.

You’ll be astounded by the number of activities that can be packed into this pulsating island, day and night. And the best part is that you can visit Singapore at all times of the year as its tropical climate means sunshine all year round.

As the slogan goes: Out of the millions of ways to enjoy Singapore, we’ve picked 101 ways. Try them all! Ways to enjoy Singapore? Singapore is simply amazing!

***

You can email me at leoudtohan@yahoo.com. Send SMS at 09212446791. Or read online at www.bohol.ph.

BIR to file tax evasion raps against Rey “Bom Boom” Bautista? and other "hot"items

BIR to file tax evasion raps against Rey “Bom Boom” Bautista?

Guess who’s this businessman who soon to be a dad

Proem:

· Food for the soul: The thread asked the candle: Why you dissolve yourself when I burn?” candles said: “You’re in my heart, if you suffer I’m here to shed tears for you.” That’s friendship.

· Could it be true that two good-looking sons of prominent families here in Tagbilaran City, obviously tipsy, were caught kissing inside a car along CPG Avenue (near Krislyn)? Could they have been, uh, having a game, with one of them standing in, as, ehem, the queen?

· There are two interactive websites which are now enjoying highest memberships among Boholanos local and abroad. Mike Ligalig’s www.tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com and Mikey Gatal’s www.mikeygatal.com/connect. You can post your views, opinions, and, if you wish to say something a little “bolder,” these websites are for you.

· Guess who this young and pretty newscaster, who doesn’t seem to know how to establish her own identity and style. We noticed she has been doing a not-so-good job delivering the news with her voice decibels down. She might have been copying the style of a more senior newscaster but she’s not successful. We suggest she sticks to her own style, to let it flow nicely, not at all that intense. After all, she has the talent and got a pretty face (?). Loosen up, girl!

· Could it be true that a group or delegation from Bohol was not denied or not granted a visa by the US Embassy? Rumors said that there are many Filipino who are going to the US as immigrant would remain either to work or do TNT. The group is supposed to perform in the US. Another group from Panglao was denied last month.

· True’s breaking news about unpaid telephone bills in the offices of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) drew reactions from readers at the tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com. True is standing by his story. An SP employee who claims as the “subject” (read: the heartless and greedy employee) is heard “threatening” that True doesn’t know who’s the person he is “fighting.” Of course, True knows that when he bumped with this dambuhala he would seriously injure. Another thing, most of the SP offices don’t have internet access. What if they have important email to read? True wants to make it clear: he is not and has never been a Capitol employee. He volunteers for “worthy” projects commissioned by the Sangguniang Kabataan and a firm believer of Abraham Lincoln’s “a government by the people and for the people.”

***

If you’re been following goings-on here in Tagbilaran City, one should know that there’s a persistent rumor that a businessman (clue: Where’s my pasalubong?) got a girl pregnant and soon to be a dad. That is if he will marry the girl. Is it goodbye to the girls he loved before?

According to VRS, the girl is about two or three months pregnant. This businessman has been dating this girl for months. They know each other, VRS added. This businessman a good boyfriend is visiting the girl’s family to establish rapport –as a future son-in-law?

The girl is a nurse by profession, VRS divulged. The girl came from a humble family, yet beautiful and sophisticated.

The couple to be are planning to the tie the knot this October. Is it the main reason that this guy is seldom seen in the operation? Blame it to love, man!

This businessman, who came to Bohol for business, is single and pretty boy. He has what it takes to make it far in the business industry.

Tax evasion for Boom Boom

Excuse me; I don’t have intention to spoil your appetite watching the bout of Rey “Boom Boom” Bautista and Daniel Ponce de Leon of Mexico. While, fighting for glory and honor, Boom Boom is no excuse of a controversy (the same news we heard on a local radio) he’s facing now.

Could it be true that boxing idol Rey “Boom Bom” Bautista will face a million tax evasion charges to be filed by the Bureau of Internal Revenue with the Court of Tax Appeals?

According to True Very Reliable Source (VRS) the “hot” item came into public when BIR men are “discussing” tax payers.

The same VRS said that the BIR has collected evidences to be presented and is sufficient to prove that the Boom Boom has violated several provisions of the National Internal Revenue Code.

A source from the BIR said that Bautista is required to file a declaration of his estimated income for each taxable year. As an individual earning income within the Philippines, and irrespective of his citizenship, Bautista must file a tax return, a BIR official said.

Baustita will be charged by BIR for failure to pay the proper taxes. Boom Boom must have misdeclared his income for the past years and the BIR intends to collect what the boxer failed to pay.

The BIR has been going after high-profile tax evaders the past years, including movie celebrities like Judy Ann Santos, Regine Velasquez and Richard Gomez.

Addendum: The Fil-Am Banares brothers EJ, 18, and Brandon, 15, sung the sing the Philippine National Anthem before an estimated 40 million viewers at the World Cup of Boxing today, August 12, at the Arco Stadium in Sacramento, California. The invitation was initiated by Tony Aldeguer of Alaboxing Gym in Cebu City. Proteges of the Aldeguer Sisters (Laly and Terry) who run the Aldeguer Sisters Performing Arts in L.A., the Banares brothers have performed in several musicals including The King and I, Oliver, West Side Story and The Best of Broadway. There is a news from US based VRS that the son of Peter and Sarah Dejaresco, Deane Jeffrey, will proudly carry the Philippine flag during the singing of the Philippine anthem. It's an honor, indeed.

A final press conference for the World Cup was held August 10 at 1 p.m. at the Arco Arena in Sacramento, California, with no less than the legendary Oscar De la Hoya doing the hosting chores for the event. Here's what Oscar and the fighters have to say at today's press conference. Boom Boom said: Good afternoon to all the press in Arco Arena. I would like to give thanks to Golden Boy Promotions for giving me a chance to fight in this championship fight. This is my dream, this is what I want. I will try my best because I know this fight is very tough. This is a war. The Filipino is one of the best in the world!

All true for tagna tagna

Let us look back to True’s tagna tagna for 2007 which was published last year. It was based upon Cresia Sarahina’s predictions and my own observation and info from VRS and other sources. These are the tagna who came true for this quarter. True, indeed!

• A radio news program will fade out. There are, you know! - LPU

• A new lifestyle show will be aired on a local cable channel with new promising local teen stars. There was but it was like meteorites.- LPU

• A writer and host program will jump over the bakod. You know moving to a new “station.” They are my friends in the media Batchoy Alba, Brigette Viernes and Chito Vissara. -LPU

• A young daughter of a prominent family here will get pregnant out of wedlock. She'll come out crying on but the “culprit” will be unmoved and refuse to marry her. Yes, the girl went to Cebu to “hide.”-LPU

• A happily-married businessman will be romantically linked to a young student. But he'll survive the minor issue with himself and his family intact. They are happy together. -LPU

• A popular government employee will quit her job and announce her intention to run in next year's elections – if, and that's the Big If, there would be elections. She’s Maam Kit Oppus. She won as City Councilor last May 14 elections. - LPU

• A wife of a prominent politician will have problems with her philandering husband. Yes, and until now they are still arguing!- LPU

• BJ Alba is moving to another station (in other place, possibly abroad). BJ Alba who’s the news director of dyTR AM/FM moved to dyRD last May. -LPU

• More success on Raymund Roldan's chain of business. However, he should be careful… and to take care (more) of his family. The recent new Save ‘n Earn building in J.S. Torralba. - LPU

• Loy Palapos will get more travel next year (with lots of job offers), but he'll never turn his back on dear Philippines. He is reportedly to travel abroad! - LPU

• Gerry Lugod will find his “real” love after getting “out” of shell. Gerry is free as a bird after “confessing” his own identity. We love you, Gerry!-LPU

• Dennis Du (of Dunkin Donuts) is lucky for business in 2007. But sad to say, there is a possibility to transfer to another place. Dennis is now lucky to find his dreamgirl. –LPU

MyHNU Globe SIM soon to be released

It’s one school, one sim.

I wish to congratulate Holy Name University (HNU) of going further in the field of quality education (and of better service to the studentry). HNU has entered into a partnership with Globe Telecommunications to produce a personalized prepaid Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card that would provide new services to HNU students, such as access to an emergency/crisis hotline, paying tuition and making inquiries about grades, all through the cell phone.

The service which is first-of-its-kind in the province will be launched this month.

The SIM, called MyHNU Prepaid SIM Card, has all the features of a regular 64K prepaid SIM card. The SIM is exclusive for Holy Name University powered by Globe.

Another feature of MyHNU SIM is the electronic way of sending and receiving money, buying prepaid cell phone load, paying bills and other money-related transactions via text message.

Students can pay their tuition through GCash instead of lining up at the treasurer’s office; they just send a text message. This is faster, more affordable and secure. It’s hassle-free.

Student can also inquire about their grade through the SIM card via a special menu for this purpose.

To avail of the MyHNU SIM card, students will have to buy the SIM, fill out a pre-registration form and present an identification card (ID) number.

The SIM will cost Php 99, while text and calls within the network will be at a cheaper rate at 75 centavos per text and 10 centavos per second for calls. However, the same rates apply for text and calls to other networks.

Globe will have a two-week-long launching of the product from August 20 -31. Stalls, where the product will be sold, will be put up in the different colleges in the university.

Globe Telecom is still looking into the possibility of adding more features and downloadables to the SIM.

MYHNU SIM is very timely as the University will be celebrating her 60^th year of providing quality education to the Boholano people.

A great force is coming to the Holynamian community!

Feedback

From Rigo C. Mijos, Sr., a Data Integrity Specialist of Mizuno USA, Inc.:

Perfect! Yes, I'm an avid fan of yours, you know that. I am following your column on the local newspaper. I've even wrote a comment on your latest writings on bohol.ph " Bol-anon flavor and other tales" have you seen that? Lastly, I would appreciate if you feature Hinagdanan Cave in Bingag, Dauis which was taken out on the list of destination in Bohol.

It's so sad, but you can't blame them. If you have visited the place lately, you will notice that the beauty is no longer there. The place is so commercialized that even souvenir stores is almost eating the mouth of the cave. I don't know why the town of Dauis allowed this to happen even in the first place, the surroundings of the cave are owed by private individuals. They should have put a park on top of the cave and set certain distance from the cave those people that who wanted to do businesses around the place. It's not too late yet if the local government is serious about Tourism.

I've been in Florida and I saw how they managed their beaches and other tourism spots. I just hope one day some of our leaders will be serious in doing their jobs where they are elected for. Thanks, Leo and hopefully, you will meet some of my brothers in Panglao town fiesta, Aug 28.

Thanks and best regards.

Marimar, awwh!

The 1994 telenovela, Marimar, starring Thalia (the Queen of Soap Operas) stormed the whole world (televised first in 1996 on RPN 9). The premiere showing of this Philippine version of Marimar will be tomorrow, August 13. Will this version be as big as the original one made by Thalia? Time will tell.

Meanwhile, let us sing the theme song of Marimar sung by Ms. Regine Velasquez:

Marimar

Marimar, ako po si Marimar
Lumaki sa tabingdagat
Sa lolo’t lola namulat
Hindi natinag sa pangaral
Busog sa pagmamahal

Marimar, ako po si Marimar
Simple man at mahirap
Meron ding mga pangarap
Hangad sa pagdarasal
Tunay na pagmamahal

Marimar, Marimar
‘Pag tumibok ang puso
Pag-ibig ay asahan mo
Marimar, Marimar
‘Pag tumibok ang puso
Dakilang pagsuyo

Marimar!

***

You can email me at leoudtohan@yahoo.com. Or you can send SMS at 09212446791. Or read online at www.bohol.ph

Mutya Buena to visit Bohol and other juicy items

Mutya Buena to visit Bohol

SP offices have their phones disconnected because of unpaid telephone bills; The 1-Million Irrigation Honorarium scandal

Proem:

· Food for the soul: Make cool lie… make cool lie ang buhay… (ang buhay)…make cool lie ang buhay…sa sinabawang gulay! So popular, isn’t it?

· Holy Name University (HNU) will celebrate 60 years of providing quality Christian education to the Boholano people. As the university turns Diamond this year, different activities are expected to add fanfare and enliven the Holynamian community. Expect a new “power” this month as HNU is “growing stronger” with a new “force.” May the force be with you!

· Feliz compleaños to Ms. Eden Descallar, Globe Telecom-Bohol officer-in-charge, August 1. Ms. Eden’s friendster says: By force of nature, many people seem to look at me as a complex individual but in reality, I’m really not. I’m as simple as a drop of rain in a pond or a ray of sunlight touching a flower. I go through a lot of pressures everyday but I always think of all the greatest things in my life, that’s why I survive. Call me a survivor but I am as simple as u can get. I’m a raw individual, and not like others perceived me to be. Well I guess there’s more to me than meets the eye enjoys.

· I got a long distance call from Ms. Rosemarie Marapao- Brruening, the president of a Filipino organization in Germany last night. Ms. Rosemarie is the “brain” behind the first and biggest gathering of Boholanos in Europe on October 31, 2007 in Bonn, Germany to unite Boholanos in Europe. I will talk more about her and the gathering on True next Sunday.

· Could it be true that most of the offices at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan have their phones disconnected because of unpaid telephone bills? According to True Very Reliable Source (VRS), the employees could not send (important) fax messages or can make long distance calls not that their phones are ‘damage’ but because they have not yet paid their bills. Other offices have no fax machines available (though like SK their request was long overdue). The only office so far which can send fax messages is the office of a new board member. According to VRS, this office would not allow other offices to use their phone to send fax messages because a regular who’s assigned to the office (who is a “dambuhala” by all adjectives) has a personality problem. Many SP employees don’t like her personality (read: maltreatment). Last Friday, a kawawang nilalang was her “prey” when an important (official) letter was needed in Manila. Since, there was no fax machine available, this kawawang nilalang was advised by other offices to ask the new board member’s office to use their fax machine. This dambuhala made alibis that their office could receive incoming messages only. SP offices have a budget allocated for communication. Taking it for granted that their office has been cut-off to make long distance call; this dambuhala should not be greedy of “sharing” the government’s facilities. In the first place, she is not the one paying the bills. Sending a one–page one fax message will cost P 20-30. Is it too much? If only this person knows what “humanitarian reason” is.

· Could it be true that two media personalities (who have secret affairs) have their “relationship” over? According to VRS, the two agreed to go “separate ways.” Is it really goodbye? Or love will find a way? Abangan!

· Live well. Laugh often. Love much. Remember these lines? Of course, you can read these “medical bulletin” when you’re inside The Buzzz, the sister cozy resto of the Bohol Bee Farm, located at the Island City Mall (ICM). While you’re enjoying “tasting” with all your heart the organic foods they serve, you will feel at home with their friendly staff- Esmer Jabajab, Mercy Golosino, Rey Dano, Kardo Gamolo, Tibor Campejos, Annalie Pablo, Vangie Jabajab and Ruby Dano. Bohol Bee Farm and The Buzzz are owned by the only Bohol’s Bee Queen Vicky Wallace who captured the world through her organic farming. Listening to Vicky is listening to a guru who’s full of wisdom. After The Buzzz don’t forget to watch the latest movies at the Screenville. ICM”s Screenville is the first modern cinema outside Manila. You don’t have regrets while you’re watching your favorite movie.

· I got a text message from Dr. Albert Fernandez of Butuan City informing that his daughter Christine, an ABS-CBN talent and singer has just recently passed the board exam for doctor of optometry. Christine is the regular mainstay host of Sabado na Gyud..Game Ka na Ba on ABS-CBN Cebu. Christine started joining singing contest when she was young and was given the chance to join and included in the top 15 in 2005 Star in a Million. The Fernandez family owns the Fernandez chain of optical clinic.

· From Marcus Agar, Miss World Organization Press head: The Miss World 2007 will take place in Sanya, China during the month of November - the Final is on December 1st. The Miss World 2006 was held in Europe. Hi world!

· True’s story on movies/films done in Bohol received feedback from readers. One reader (who asked anonymity) said that Larry Jao produced the movie Puri (not Lagablab sa Maribojoc) starring the sexy vixen Stella Strada and Dennis Roldan and not Dennis Trillo). Another feedback is from Alturas Group of Companies (AGC) publicist Ariel Fullido (who saw the filming) who told True that the movie thriller Dark Tide (1993) starring Richard Tyson was done in Bohol.

Directed by Luca Bercovici, the story was about Andi, the wife of Tim, who is collecting venom from poisonous eels on a tropical island. She comes to visit him, and having missed him for some time, has torrid sex with him at every occasion. This attracts the attention of Dak, who was raised in a chauvinistic culture and is very attracted to Andi. Tim becomes obsessed with gathering the venom, so Andi decides to go on a motorcycle ride with Dak to an underground cave, where he seduces her. However, Andi refuses to let Dak have his way with her again, and this leads him to trick Tim into poisoning himself. While Tim is sick in bed, Dak rapes Andi. However, Andi refuses to give up on her husband and decides to go diving for the eels herself. She is forced to hire Dak to drive her boat, who repeatedly rapes her when they are out to sea. One day he becomes very arrogant and kidnaps a young teenage island girl for his younger brother to rape. In self-defense, the girl kills Dak’s brother and takes refuge with Andi and Tim, who has now recovered. Dak and his crew go after the girl, and in a fight with Andi and Tim, are subsequently all killed.

***

Mutya Buena of the famous Sugababes is planning to visit Bohol this year.

I wrote about Mutya (Rosa Isabel Mutya Buena in real life) for Philippine Star (Ricky Lo’s Funfare) in 2005. Mutya is half-Boholana whose father, Roberto, hails from Sikatuna Street, Tagbilaran City.

Mutya is pure dinuguan and peanut kisses as she dances the tinikling and sings Dahil Sa ‘Yo and the Visayan song Matud Nila.

Her British twang doesn’t keep her from loving the adobo her father cooks for the family and celebrating Filipino Independence Day every June 12, the Philippine Star reported.

Nor does Mutya’s western upbringing prevent her from taking her Visayan grandmother’s hand, touching it lightly with her forehead and saying, “Mano Po!”

Unlike some people she grew up with, Mutya doesn’t call her elders by their first names. In fact, she addresses her relatives in Tagbilaran, Bohol as tito and tita.

Mention Itik-itik and she reacts, “Oh, the one where you move like a duck? Oh yes!” Pandanggo sa Ilaw is where “you move with candlelights.” And tinikling is something Mutya learned as a little girl.

That sense of rhythm that makes you want to get up on your feet and dance is encoded in her DNA. Dad is a guitarist who taught her Filipino songs as a girl while Mom loves music just as much.

“I went to a Filipino school,” Mutya explains. “And I know all the Filipino dances, like the one where you rotate candlelights in your hand (read: Pandanggo sa Ilaw), move like a duck (Itik Itik) and act like you’re planting rice.”

Like fellow half-Pinoy artist Apl.de.ap of Black Eyed Peas, Mutya is proud of her roots.

She tells anyone who cares to listen when she’s on stage that she’s half-Pinoy.

After leaving the Sugababes in December 2005, Buena began working on material for a solo career. Her Myspace.com page appeared on 25 April and has been used to chat with fans, friends and colleagues. It also features demo tracks, which were rumored to be on her upcoming album, such as “Love Story”, “2 the Limit”, “Wonderful”, “Darkside”, “Suffer for Love”, “Sunshine” and “Addiction”, however only ‘Wonderful’ and ‘Suffer For Love’ made it onto the album.

Whilst solo, Buena has collaborated with numerous artists including Tah Mac, MC Viper, George Michael and Groove Armada.

Now that she’s on solo flight with a debut album titled Real Girl to show for it, Mutya has a bigger audience she can share her Pinay heart with.

And she’s succeeding, so far. The first single, the album’s title track Real Girl, entered the UK Singles chart at No. 11 in downloads alone climbing to No. 2 after its CD release.

The song samples Lenny Kravitz’s It Ain’t Over ‘Till It’s Over.

The track closest to Mutya’s heart, however, is Suffer For Love, because she herself wrote it.

Real Girl marks another first for Mutya. It’s the first time she is using her family name — Buena, in an album. This is the same family name her two-year-old daughter (by boyfriend Jay), Tahlia-Maya is using.

Turning solo, says Mutya, has brought with it many wonderful changes.

“It’s allowing me to do my own thing,” she explains.

On top of this list of plus points is the chance to spend more time with her daughter and be the best mother she can be to her.

When it comes to Tahlia-Maya (On March 23, 2005, Mutya gave birth to 5lb 10oz Tahlia-Maya Buena, her first child with boyfriend Jay, which was rumored to be one of the reasons she left the Sugababes) Mutya is like a typical mom who can’t stop talking about her little girl.

“Tahlia means morning dew. I found that name in the Internet and I think it’s Hebrew,” she relates. Since her bundle of joy was born at 3 a.m. , Mutya thought the name was just perfect for her firstborn. Maya, on the other hand, was the name of Mutya’s late sister.

The doting mom plans to travel more often to the Philippines and bring Tahlia-Maya as often as possible to the land of her ancestors. This way, her daughter will imbibe Filipino values of respect for elders, love for family and others.

For starters, Mutya says she, her siblings and Tahlia-Maya will take a vacation in Bohol towards the end of the year.

“We’re so excited,” Mutya gushes.

Yes, England may have its gleaming skyscrapers, latest gizmos and other things new and high-tech. But Mutya Buena — with her love for adobo, tinikling and fiestas — remains proudly Filipino, right down to the core.

The Buena family currently lives in Kingsbury, North West London. Mutya was raised by her Irish mother and Filipino father. She attended Kingsbury High School. Her name “Mutya” means “muse” or “beautiful gem. Mutya has five brothers (Bayani, Charlie, Chris, Danny and Roberto) and two younger sisters, Ligaya and Dalisay; another sister, Maya, died in 2002, and the song “Maya” on the album Three is dedicated to her. Mutya other sibling are still in studying in Bohol and live in a relative’s house in Mansasa.

The 1-Million Irrigation Honorarium scandal

Just before deadline last night, True got this intriguing and explosive “news” from True Very Reliable Source (VRS).

The transpo “scandal” of Bohol’s top officials was “spilled” by this Irrigation boss.

Could it be true that the seven members of the Bids and Award Committee (BAC) are getting richer? According to the implementing rules and issuances, each member is entitled for an honorarium of P2, 500.00 each per project regardless of the cost of the project.

The Irrigation boss allegedly used 1 million pesos as honorarium for the BAC which is far beyond the allowed amount for the honorarium. P1 million divided by 7 is P142, 857.14.

This is illegal according to VRS. VRS just “wondered” if the Commission on Audit (COA) personnel who made their audit a month had found this “irregularity.”

Another VRS informed that the Irrigation boss is frequently claiming travel to Manila but in truth this boss is just in Cebu.

I smell something fishy, VRS said, especially that this boss is “fighting” two Bohol’s top officials

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You can email me at leoudtohan@yahoo.com. Or send SMS at 09212446791. Read online at www.bohol.ph.