Start your days right in 2014

With the New Year comes the opportunity for a fresh start. The best way to greet 2014 is to start its first day on a healthy and a fabulously positive note. Thus, I am sharing with you some “reminders” to welcome your most awesome year yet.

Top 10 New Year’s resolutions for 2014 from statisticbrain.com:

1. Lose Weight

2. Getting Organized

3. Spend Less, Save More

4. Enjoy Life to the Fullest

5. Staying Fit and Healthy

6. Learn Something Exciting

7. Quit Smoking

8. Help Others in Their Dreams

9. Fall in Love

10. Spend More Time with Family

Top five (well, six) tips for staying healthy in 2014 from Cambridge News:

1. Eat breakfast – Ensure you have a substantial breakfast which includes some protein and fat, and aim to eat it within an hour of getting up. This will help your body to maintain balanced blood sugar levels and that’s key in order to reduce your cravings. And do yourself a big favour and skip the fruit juice - it plays havoc with your blood sugar levels.

2. Get active – Find an activity that you enjoy and actually look forward to, such as cycling, dancing, running or yoga – and do it twice a week. Current research suggests sitting for long periods can increase the risk of heart disease, weight gain and diabetes, so if you’re office based ensure you get up several times a day and take a walk.

3. Protein – Include some with all meals and snacks: think eggs, chicken, fish, pulses, nuts and seeds, approximately the size of your palm. This will slow down the insulin response and help keep your weight stable.

4. Get into green tea - Replace some of your tea and coffee with green tea. It is rich in polyphenols, a powerful antioxidant that will not only help to keep you healthy this winter but may also slow down the ageing process as may encourage faster metabolism. Start with two cups a day and experiment by adding fresh mint and a slice of lemon.

5. Cut back on carbohydrates such as potatoes, rice, pasta, bread, biscuits - and ensure you load your plate up with healthy seasonal vegetables instead. Make them interesting by stir-frying, sautéing, baking in the oven, adding garlic and chilli - whatever works for you.

6. One final tip... Include mushrooms in your diet. They contain powerful compounds called beta glucans which have long been studied for their immune enhancing properties.

And some inspiring words from Elvie Bongosia of PIA-Bohol on New Year's resolutions - The Pope Francis list:

1. Don't gossip.
2. Finish your meals.
3. Make time for others.
4. Choose the "more humble" purchase.
5. Meet the poor "in the flesh."
6. Stop judging others.
7. Befriend those who disagree.
8. Make commitments, such as marriage.
9. Make it a habit to "ask the Lord."
10.Be happy. This joy should translate to love of neighbor.

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VRS asked you to share your greatest moment of 2013. These are your stories...

Volunteerism-“It's being able to rediscover myself by realizing my capacity to help. The 7.2 earthquake and typhoon Haiyan were my greatest moments because it helped me realize not only that I can actually help but it let me witness the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen – the Filipinos and other countries helping each other to give aid to the victims. As they say, it is in times of disaster that brings out the best in the community.” -Anna Maris Igpit

Daughter’s Birthday-“When Cielo celebrated her 16th birthday with our family, her Grandma Wincie and Mommy Lou in attendance; when Jerome and I put on her medal for her victory in the Regional Metrobank-MTAP-DepEd Math Challenge in Cebu City, and when I escorted Cielo to the University of the Philippines-Diliman upon her college entrance.”- Fiel Angeli Araoarao-Gabin

Heaven’s Bliss- “When I met Padre Pio in Boracay that made me back sincerely and religiously with God in the Catholic Church. I swear! Isn't that amazing?”- Joy Suarez

Partner-“My greatest moment of 2013 is that I met and married the woman that I'll love for the rest of my life, Atty. Joan Jagonos.” – Benjie Oliva

For Art’s Sake- “When I was chosen by the Asian Cultural Council (ACC) fellowship grantee for visual arts here in New York for six months to observe contemporary arts.”- Sam Penaso

Beauty with a Purpose-“As usual, the success of Anyag sa Tubigon 2013 with Daniel Padilla as special guest and when I was able to defend my master’s thesis en route to my Master in Business Management Degree at the Graduate School of Business and Administration of the University of San Jose-Recoletos.”-Raymund Delgado

A Helping Hand- “Co-convening the Oplan Bangon Bohol and doing relief and rebuilding missions in Bohol but still getting a year-end Performance Award from our Law Firm.” – Atty. Julius Gregory Delgado

Youth Service- “Winning the "Outstanding Barangay Official of the Year 2013 (Toboy Awards)" SK Category among 3,003 SK chairmen of the whole Region 7 and elected as Barangay Kawagad in our beloved Barangay Booy.” - Clement Ingking

Happy Feet- “The best moment for me this 2013 is when I went to the Grand Canyon...I felt God's presence there!!!”- EJ Relampagos

2013 was a good year for VRS as he was interviewed and featured on CNN.

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Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohan at Twitter /Facebook.

Bohol’s Best Moments of 2013

2013 has been a year of devastation, courage and triumph. From the 7.2 magnitude earthquake, to Bohol’s beauty pageants, to celebrity sightings, see what had us talking this year:

Firs time, baby! = Collin Chio Joshua Jubac and Candy Cumayas were crowned as 1^st Mr and Ms HNU Personality 2013. The 1^st Saulog Festival, a cultural event in honor of Saint Joseph the Worker, the City’s patron saint, was held in April. The authentic Boholano cuisine was introduced for the first time at the Loboc Riverwatch. It is the only floating restaurant which offers a wide array of mouth-watering traditional Boholano cuisine at the famous Loboc River, the river of life.  

Goodbye, Prony= Bohol’s biggest python in captivity died on August 14. It was on October 21, 1996 when Prony was found by Sofronio Salibay which measured 5 feet and 5 kilograms. In 2012, Prony weighed 280 kilos and measured 27 feet long. Her waist line was 34 inches. The Salibay family, which runs the sanctuary and owned the python, maintained she was the largest snake in captivity in the Philippines, though there were no official records. Don’t worry, MariMar is still inside the Prony and Wildlife Sanctuary in Baclayon showcasing her deadly antics.

Sentimental Journey= Winning "The Voice Philippines" was the goal, but for Bohol’s pride Kim Mainit, “The Boses na May Gustong Patunayan,” going home was always the sweetest trip.  After the stressful battle rounds, Kim got the chance to be with his family and friends in Bohol. According to VRS, who tagged along with Kim, tears flowed as he finally got to meet his immediate family in Anda town whom he hadn’t seen for a long time. He also paid an emotional visit to the cemetery to visit the graves of his grandparents “to pay homage and ask for guidance.” Here’s another story we can’t forget: Baby Jane finds her family after 51 years through Facebook.  Philippine Child Wonder in the 1960s Baby Jane or Jane Zenaida Galinato-Smith in real life was reconnected with her estranged family after she was “kidnapped” more than fifty years ago. Baby Jane embraced her siblings and relatives for the very first time during the Galinato Global Grand Gathering or GGGG held last July in Tagbilaran City, Bohol. 

Take It! Take It! = Without a doubt, the most-watched man of the year was Rajah sa Bohol Danilo Torrifiel Torcende who accused the organizer, JCI-Boholana Kisses, of not giving him the prizes months after the first Sikatuna: Rajah sa Bohol, a male beauty pageant. He had not received his Php10,000 prize and he had not heard anything from the organizers and all efforts to get the prizes had proved futile. When Torcende posted his anger on Facebook about the “Rajah scam,” it had struck chord around the province, racking up people and it quickly found its way to the beauty pageant industry in Bohol. Also Bohol’s celebrated make-up artist and hairstylist also complained the long-delayed prizes of the Mr and Miss Teen Bohol organized by the SK headed by Jethro Lim Imboy.  Blogger Edik Dolotina had the best reaction, “Why a lot of them happened in Bohol?”

Beauty Is in the Eye of the Beholder=  Barely two weeks after her reign as Miss Bohol Sandugo (MBS) 2013, Brigitte Tanoja Burato faced an issue that could almost finish her reign as Miss Bohol Sandugo. Burato was supposed to join the Miss Silka Bohol 2013, a violation of the Miss Bohol Sandugo rules and regulations since she is not allowed to join any beauty pageant in the province until she has completed her reign.

“The problem of Miss Alicia Brigitte Burato is she has an attitude problem,” said the socialite VRS. “She should inform first the MBS committee if she has to join another beauty pageant.”

Burato had a closed-door heart-to-heart talk with the MBS organizers.

The rules said: The Miss Bohol Sandugo should have never been married, never been pregnant and in good health and of good moral character during her reign. She pledges to abide by the rules and regulations set by the organizers and to support and participate in the activities initiated by the committee.

Celebrity and VIP Sightings= Journey’s lead singer Arnel Pineda was spotted in Bohol and he was mobbed by fans at the Loboc River. Other celebrities who enjoyed Bohol were Isabel Oli, Tim Yap, Crystal Henares, Julia Barretto, Richard Poon, Mark Bautista, Christian Bautista, Noli de Castro, Kara David, Korina Sanchez, Jovit Baldivino, Sam Milby, Kian Cepriano, Empress, John Prats, John Lapus, Direk Loren Dyogi, Ruru Madrid, Ted Failon, Erwin Tulfo, Jessica Soho, Mel Tiangco, Kapuso hot couple Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera, Bianca King, Rafael Rosell, Dion Ignacio, JC Tiuseco, Mikael Daez, Ryan Bang, Irma Adlawan , Mylene Dizon, Max Collins, Orlando Sol (of Masculado fame), Ruru Madrid, Diva Monteliba, child actors Miggs Cuarderno, Barbara Miguel, Nafa Hilario-Cruz, Ashely Strom, Xyrus Cruz, Yogo Singh, Pinoy Dream Academy runner-up Ronnie Liang, Viva Hotbabe Jaycee Parker, Kapamilya star Aldred Gatchalian, former US Ambassador to the Philippines Harry K. Thomas Jr , Atty. Midas Marquez, Miss Netherlands 2006 and Mrs. Globe 2013 Sheryl Lyn Baas, PDI’s entertainment columnist Dolly Anne Carvajal, Hollywood reporter Ruben Nepales and wife Janet. Daniel Padilla was the special guest of the 6th edition of Anyag sa Tubigon 2013.  2010 Miss Universe runner up Venus Raj graced the 2013 Miss Panglao pageant. Charice Pempengco and her girlfriend Alyssa Quijano visited Bohol one week before the earthquake for their first anniversary. USAid Deputy Assistant Administrator for Asia Gregory Beck, Gloria Steele and U.S. Ambassador Philip Goldberg visited the areas affected by the earthquake. (Note: This list is not complete.)

Famous Feud= LGU Loboc thru Mayor Helen Alaba banned Loboc Riverwatch  owned by Tessie Labunog-Sumampong from taking off  and barred guests from riding the floating resto of Tessie. The widening rift worsened after a Temporary Restraining Order issued by a local court was defied by the mayor.

You bring pride, you're the inspiration= Boholano young entrepreneur Dalareich Polot was the grand winner in the First Young Entrepreneur’s Bootcamp 2013. The judges were impressed of Dalareich and they were inspired of her life story.  True to her name, the tableya princess Dalareich has received a cash prize (a whooping US5,000 dollars!) and a plaque.  “Now I can justify why God gave me my name Dalareich (Dollar-rich),” she said. Clement Paulinel Ingking was selected as Region VII’s The Outstanding Barangay Official of Year 2013 or TOBOY for SK Chairperson Category on Oct. 10 in Cebu City.

Winner takes it all= Finishing off the year with a flourish,  Alberto Rodulfo "Ar" dela Serna was declared Mr Generation East 2013 grand winner, Sta. Lucia Generation East Model Search. Dela Serna was adjudged first runner-up in Mr Philippine Youth in 2002. In Nov. 2012, he replaced the dethroned Mr. Philippine Youth 2012 Leo Angeles Flores of Parañaque. Also, Island City Mall's "Voices of Champions" grand winner was Alma Mida Golosino.

No longer Mama’s boy= 2013 was a year that changed everything for Mr. Teen Bohol 2012 Adryan Mila who managed to be in the top 12 of the Mr. and Ms. Philippine Youth 2013. In his personal life, Mila was raised by his mother alone.  He confessed he was a “mother’s boy” but we think he’ll look back at 2013 as the year he became his own man.  Another brave man who tried his luck in the Mister International Philippines 2013 was Rex Pilayre Bangalao.

People we lost in 2013= Shock waves rippled through the business industry last June 12 (also his youngest son's birthday) as news surfaced that businessman and public servant Ben Udtohan had died. “Unbelievably sad news. A fine man,” tweeted some friends. Nong Ben loved movies. In fact, he supported movies Nandito Ako Nagmamahal Sa 'Yo (2009) and Amigo (2010) which were done in Bohol.  Others who have “crossed the bar” included Dr. Prisco Tallo who died on August 28. Dr. Tallo served as resident physician of the Bohol Provincial Hospital and chief of the Loon District Hospital and Carmen Cong. Natalio Castillo Memorial Hospital.  Former congressman Isidro “Totoy” Clarin Zarraga of the third congressional district of Bohol died last December 10. He was 88.

Chop the Pork Barrel= Angry but peaceful Million March anti-pork protest was held in Bohol banding people from different walks of life and many sectors of society. Several anti-pork barrel rallies were held in Tagbilaran City.

Election Madness= Led by Beauche International and former Carmen Mayor  Conchita Toribio- delos Reyes who was running for governor against incumbent governor Edgar Chatto, several other politicians (those  "showbiz"-connected and lovers of the arts and culture) were throwing their hats into the 2013 political ring: Rene Relampagos (first district), Aris Aumentado (second district) and Art Yap (uncontested, third district) for representatives, Yul Lopez, Benjie Arcamo, Abel Damaerio (first disrict), Jaja Jumamoy, Gerry Garcia and Tommy Abapo (second district), Dioning Balite, Elpidio Jala, Godofreda Tirol, Boy Imboy (third district) for board members, Dr. Abe Lim (Tagbilaran), Dodong Gonzaga (Tagbilaran), Marlon Amila (Tubigon), Nila Montero (Panglao), Sample Tirol (Buenavista), Baba Yap (Tagbilaran City), NiÑo Rey Boniel (Bien Unido), Marnilou Ayuban (uncontested, Alicia), Sulpicio Yu, Jr (Calape), Moloy Apat (Dagohoy), Tita Gallentes (Garcia Hernandez), Roygie Jumamoy (Inabanga), Fortunato Abrenilla (Jagna), Casoy Camacho (Jetafe), Rina Salazar (uncontested, Lila), May Imboy (Loay), Lloyd Peter Lopez (Loon), Leoncio Evasco, Jr. (Maribojoc), Tessie Boyboy (Pres. Carlos P. Garcia Island) and Judith Cajes (Trinidad) for mayors; Pureza Chatto (Balilihan), Pedro Budiongan, Jr (Carmen), Iven Lim (Cortes), Lulu Bongalos (Dauis), Wilson Pajo (Pilar) and Pedro Fuertes (Panglao) for vice mayors; and Ondo Montero (Panglao), Ariel Lungay (Catigbian), Jono Jumamoy (Inabanga), Rochelle Brigitte Imboy (Loay), Crispina Vergara (Mabini), Allan Tinaja (San Isidro) and Adam Jala, Oscar Glovasa, Jojo Bompat and Aleckoy Lim (Tagbilaran City) for councilors.  The 2013 elections also validated Aumentado's power and might in the second district of Bohol. (Note: This list is not complete.)

Fashion icons, catwalk makers= Who would have thought that our own Boholano socialites could be so convincingly classy? This year, the Rotary Club of Tagbilaran gathered the talented fashion experts and couturiers Henry Baron, Maximiel Tallo, Jong Magallano, Omie Auza, Rhigel Dulfo and EJ Relampagos for Reveal, the most popular fashion show of 2013. The local models, who were members of the Rotary Club, submitted themselves to fashion and etiquette lessons and expensive makeovers from the Bohol Fashion Designers’ Circle. The result was a high-fashion event that no doubt made the fashion scene in Bohol a jaws drop.

Amazing Santa= You don't need superpowers to be a hero. After the 7.2 magnitude earthquake, the deadliest and strongest in recent years (releasing an energy equivalent to 32 Hiroshima bombs), damaged our infrastructures, pulverized historical monuments, polarized commerce, destroyed livelihoods and killed people. There were many amazing people and organizations that are making things better. I’ve realized that there are many young people who care about other people and the province keeping the bayanihan spirit alive. They have volunteered to pack and deliver relief goods to far-flung barangays.  Special recognition to Bb. Pilipinas-World 2006 Anna Maris Igpit and her Oplan Bangon Bohol. Step aside, Santa Claus.

Invasion of the Cybernauts= PIA-Bohol is the celebrity king of social media. Or at least “it” was, until Edik Dolotina dethroned him! Edik who had never been a super-active tweeter but a Facebooker who continued to mesmerize netizens with his post on Facebook. Of course, Fiel Angeli Araoarao-Gabin , Anna Maris Igpit and Liza Macalandag had managed to conquer both Twitter and Facebook. But more about that in a moment!  

Our Pledge of Love Can’t Be Broken= It took former Commissioner of the National Youth Commission (NYC) and Department of Agriculture administrative officer Benjie Oliva and his wife Joan Jagonos over a year to prepare for their dream wedding which was supposed to be held on Oct. 19 at Dauis Church. What the Oliva couple was not prepared for was a 7.2 magnitude earthquake that would shatter their wedding unforgettable. “We decided t postpone the wedding considering the damage cost by the earthquake that hit Bohol. The Dauis Church was totally damaged,” said Benjie in an interview while he and Joan were volunteering at the St. Joseph Cathedral for the relief goods. The wedding was finally realized on Dec 7.

Believe It or Not= Martin Slisans, a Latvian national swims from Bohol to Cebu to promote RP tourism. Slisans started swimming at around 1 a.m. from Catagbacan, Loon and reached Argao, Cebu at around 2 p.m. on May 18. The long distance swimming was almost 30 kilometers.

Deal or No Deal?= Former Loboc Mayor Leon Calipusan withdrew his candidacy for congressman for personal, health and family reasons. VRS denied the report that there was 'under the table' agreement between Rep. Art Yap and Mayor Calipusan. Awww

Nature’s Wonder= The surface rupture (faultline) which appeared after the killer quake in barangay Anonang, Inabanga town invites tourists to explore nature. People also visited barangay Obujan, Antequera to see the landcracks which killed four family members.

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Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohan at Twitter /Facebook.

My ‘recycled’ Christmas list

How many kings are born in hovels?

King are meant for thrones, not pastures.

But this king did and we can marvel

He is different, that we can be sure.

While commoners who deserve far less

Demand far more, He models meekness.

There was no room in a crowded town

People gathered to be registered.

All must heed the emperor’s decree.

Even Mary, in her condition.

No one says no to the emperor

Not even Him who would be Savior.

It was hard for Joseph and Mary

There was not even a place to stay

Comfort was not in the mix of things

Not in today’s context and thinking.

Privilege and favor, no one craved. 

All they sought was a room for the Babe. 

So He was born inside the manger.

That no one cared, it did not matter.

The shepherds came, it was a welcome

Fit for this King, so gentle, so calm.

And yet, no doubt many years later

We remember the humble manger.

Jesus says that He is still knocking

At our own doors, where He is welcome.

He will only enter when open.

God seeks mangers that welcome Him in 

Those that rejoice over His coming

For mangers wide open for this King. 

    -The Manger by Chito Fuentes  

“The Manger” written by veteran journalist Chito Fuentes (more poems and articles at http://yellowlightsign.com) tells us that Jesus is not the helpless infant or even a grown-up man, but the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  As we celebrate Christmas, let us celebrate the miracle of His love. I encourage you to ponder the majesty of God and the goodness and power He brings to your life.

Like you, I wish peace on earth and goodwill in Bohol which this year has been torn apart by unimaginable tragedies and controversies.

I have my own Christmas list for my favorite Boholanos, regardless of whether they’d been naughty (Where are you Miss Bohol Sandugo 2013 Brigitte Burato?!) or nice (What’s your next Bangon Bohol projects Anna Maris Igpit?! ). Only three days before Christmas Day, so better late than never.

Here they are:

For Rep. Art Yap— May Cong. Art Yap continue to muster support in his claim to rebuild homes for the earthquake victims thru the Rebuild Bohol Foundation he initiated so that those rendered homeless by the calamities  will no longer have to sleep in tents.

For Abdul Wallace and Chandrina Elluiska Schreurs — A chain to bind them and lock their hearts forever and ever. Amen. How about a marriage contract? Remember that marriage is not a noun, it’s a verb! He! He! He!

The country’s tallest Santa Claus

For Marianne Domivee Chatto and Haibon Lim Mapute— A solemn march down the aisle.....  A marriage contract!

For Benjie Oliva and Atty. Joan Jagonos-Oliva— A stork’s visit. Same for Eden Descallar–Ceballos and Mikel Ceballos,  Loida Lagonoy-Viloria and George Viloria; and Diane Uy-Yap and Atty. Wrenly Yap. 

For Nemi Monton — A clean bill of health and an award (long delayed?) recognizing his talent and tireless dedication as sports czar in Bohol! Paging Capitol!

For Idy Cagas — Beauty rest and hot boyfriend!  Same for Bia Ursula Bautista, Fer Mary Baliquig, Ely Rose Apple Angcon, Felisse Marie Carvajal, Farrah Faye Mian, Carlene Yap, Candy Cumayas, Aya Montero, Trisha Chatto and Elvie Bongosia.

For Dame Rose Soy —Eternal beauty! She will continue to possess beauty, grace, wisdom and wealth and influence through the years as Bohol's Queen of Tourism and Santacruzan Queen.    

For Atty. Brian Gaviola, Doc Homer Singco, Lemuel Belarmino — A marriage contract (Hurry!!! Hurry!!!)!

For Ardy Batoy —After her numerous hosting stints this year, Bohol’s Queen of All Media deserves a Mediterranean vacation (or in  Bora Bora in Polynesia). Same for Gloria Leodivica Araneta and Raul Gatal.

For Atty. Greg Delgado — A hot “partner” to love him dearly. Same for Dobap! A quote from The Time Traveler’s Wife: “It's hard being left behind.. . It's hard to be the one who stays.”

For Anna Maris Igpit— A boyfriend to color her world. Note: In the strictest sense of the word…a boy friend. Addendum:  As Bb. Pilipinas, she will help promote to bring back the vigor in Bohol’s tourism industry. Same for Brigitte Burato that her presence can be felt in Bohol.

For Vida Tirol-de Juan and Butch de Juan — Another “joint venture.” Their daughter Bea needs a brother or a sister. Same for Tagbilaran Mayor Baba Yap and Jane Censoria Cajes-Yap whose daughter Janah needs a sister or a brother. The same wish for Atty. Doi Magdoza and Dra. Aileen Tan.

For Pepe Recitas— Good health and more years to continue the programs of HomeReach Foundation. Same for Ramie Cadag, Manuel Cempron, Francis Dompor and Fancy Baluyot.

For Onie Oclarit, Fr. Fro Lungay and Meo Mascariñas — Good health and beautiful music.

For Mila Lim — Good health and more years tocontinue decorating her Christmas village at home with happiness and joy.

For Vanity Kintanar Salinana—Ageless beauty to continue her advocacy helping the transpinay and the LGBT community.  Same for Baby Tagoctoc, Bohol’s most influential and powerful bading.

For Mikey Gatal — A round trip ticket to Thailand with his someone special. Stephanie Laurens’ The Edge of Desire says, “My heart only ever had one thought, one want. One need. Despite all, in spite of all...All my heart has ever wanted is you.”

For Mizken Tirol Andan and Ryan Sines — A hot “partner” to love them dearly. Same for  John Torralba, Emerson Pinos, Julan Cordova, Alexis Cadeliña, Tracy Remolador Torres, Charlow Arbasto, Gerry Lugod and Butch Bernas. Heide Klum says, “I've been heartbroken. I've broken hearts. That's part of life, and its part of figuring out who you are so you can find the right partner.”

For Tagbilaran City councilor Adam Jala — A seductive and sexy girlfriend! Same for Gabriel Buates.

For Sam Penaso— More exhibits abroad and flanking (with his popular stripes and shades)!

For Zenaida Darunday, Pat Ruiz, Atty. Kins Aparece, Salvio Makinano, Judge Raul Barbarona and company —Good health and more years to protect the fragile environment of Bohol. Same for Rosalinda Paredes, Mightee Palo, Alvin Acuzar, Dorris Dinorog-Obena, Isidore Ancog, Ellen Gallares, Vera Gesite and Shem Quezon.

For David Maulas and Jenissa Laguda Peteros—  A marriage contract (indefinite)!  Wedding bells! Wedding bells!  Same for Alfeo Jabinez and Amy Fiel Booc.

For Doxson Asoy and Karen Digal-Asoy— A healthy baby due in February next year.                                     

For Jeroen Hellingman— Good health and long years to continue promoting Bohol to the world. Same for  Jerome Auza, Mike Ligalig, Roy Bayonas, Alfonso Potane, Rene Econg and company.

For Chito Visarra, Fred Araneta, BG Guingguing and Jerry Pabe —Exclusive and explosive segments with their “controversial” and “talkative” guests and “violent” callers. Same for  Atty. Salva Diputado, Lito Responte and Ted Ayeng.

For City administrator Edi Borja, former Tagbilaran Mayor Dan Lim, Atty. Victor dela Serna, Nestor Daarol, Felix Cempron, Ted Ayeng and Richard Bompat—A silencer (for this season) that will prevent them from flaunting on radio to throw “feisty” words this Christmas time. They can come back after the Holidays!  He! He! He! Peace!

For Marc Joseph Batoy, Ar-Ar dela Serna, Danilo Torcende, Adryan Mila and Clement Ingking — More exposures next year!  They deserve the kliegs and flickers!

For Beryl Elizabeth Lupot— A car and a true love!

For Peddy Bolanio and Glee Orcullo —Hot and explosive showbiz news for their Showbiz Rampa. Hope to hear great (shocking) revelations from guests in 2014!

For Governor Edgar Chatto and Rep. Erico “Aristotle” Aumentado — A New Year (and more years) full of hope and real goodwill. To come up with more concrete initiatives  that address crisis and disaster management in the province, bearing in mind the painful lessons from the magnitude 7.2 earthquake and supertyphoon Yolanda. Same for Rep. Rene Relampagos.

For former Tagbilaran Mayor Dan Neri Lim — Again, a peace pipe he should smoke with Gov. Edgar Chatto.

For Madame Paz Trotin, Che Toribio-delos Reyes, Leah Tirol-Magno, Gen Jamisola, Daday Uy-Fuertes, Barbara Ong, Jojo Baritua, Helen Binangbang, Tessie Pagdato, Sylvia Fernandez-Maristela, Baby Collins, Connie Geonzon,  Gerry Egos and Musette Hontanosas — Good things in life. Same for Doc Joy Yap, Dr. Mary Grace Uy, Dr. Angelito Lechago, DonDon Suganob, Primitiva Ontong, LJ Lumayag, Kit Oppus, Meljun Daniel, Nora Pahang, Concepcion Bagotchay, Romy Tagaan, Ate V Yorong, Judith Uy-Sumatra, Angie Valencia, Rey Chiu, Chito Fuentes, June Blanco, Ric Obedencio, Jun Gutierrez, Dr. Wilfreda Bongalos, Freda Tirol, Boy Dumadag, Sarah Dejaresco, Roygie Jumamoy, Dr. Evangel Luminarias, Vicky Wallace, Hans and Lani Schoof, Jas Montes, Dr. Cristeta Tirol, Dr. Henya Tirol-Sotelo, Amalia Tirol, Dr. Nenita Po, Liza Quirog, Betty Veloso, Pureza Chatto and Greenie Aumentado,

For Dalareich Polot — Bohol’s tableya princess may continue to inspire the youth to become business minded like her!

For Mayor Nila Montero— She may have the determination to bring out the best in Panglao and the political will to change wrong practices of the past for the good of the LGU.

For Cesar Montano, Rich Asuncion, Tintin Ng, Lailette Boiser, Gerber Mercado and Cathy Remperas — More challenging roles in a hit teleserye (if not a movie) to prove what they made of and to show their effective "natural" acting. Where are you Mich Capili?

For Henry Baron, Maximiel Tallo, Jong Magallano, Omie Auza, Rhigel Dulfo, EJ Relampagos and Sony Pamaong— Another gathering of talented fashion experts and couturiers as engrossing as “Reveal.” Paging Rotary Club of Tagbilaran!

For Tessie Labunog-Sumampong — Beauty rest and inner strength to fight against odds and obstacles in life. Like the Loboc River, she will continue flowing!

For Inday Rufing and Inday Charity — Hot partners to warm their cold nights. The night is cold and the comforter may not be enough to warm you up.

For Joy Suarez — A perfect holiday (not in Boracay, Palawan or Bohol) with someone special. She’s been working so hard that hapit makalimti ang lovelife! He!He!He!

For Fiel Angeli Espejo Araoarao-Gabin — More than anything in the whole world, love of family, good health and safety for everyone.

For Glenn Mark Blasquez— Roundtrip ticket to Bohol so that he can feel home sweet home. Same for Marcing Tsurumi, Jiji Apalisok, Rebecca Lusterio, Jocelyn Oppus, Babat Malicay, Auring Balili, Rey Reformina, Lorenzo and Richel Galaura.

For Centerstage Band — More gigs and release of their (long delayed) album!

For Nonito Donaire — We are the champion belt! Same for Aj Banal, Jedara Docena and siblings, Caesar Amonsot, Boom-Boom Bautista and Jesus Pacaldo. 

For Bishop Leonardo Medroso, et al— Blessed years ahead to continue sharing Christ and loving people. Same for pastors Nelson Rio III, Bobby Rio, Vicente Agustin, George Lungay, Franco Trigo, Rey Rodriguez and Bro. Libby Aba. Galatians 6:9 says, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

For Aldrin Palaca— A concert to showcase his talent as the Beatbox King of Bohol together with Kimpoy and the Loboc Children’s Choir (we want to hear your angelic voices), Alicia Bamboo Ensemble, Dimiao Children’s Rondalla, Loboc Youth Ambassador and HNU Diwanag Dance Troupe.

For Nene Lungay, Glenn Lumantao, Ric Ramasola, Marianito Jose Luspo and Napoleon Abueva— More years to showcase their talents. Same for Ryan Macalandag, Liza Macalandag, Tadiyandi, Baji, Bohol visual artists and Arte Malaya.

For Bohol Chronicle- Our kinaham forever and vanguard of freedom. More 100 years and beyond!

For VRS readers— May your Christmas and the coming New Year be blessed beyond measure!

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Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohan at Twitter /Facebook.

Benjie, Joan make wedding guests cry

Wake-uppers:

US Ambassador Goldberg/US Embassy

Scene: Two days after USAid Deputy Assistant Administrator for Asia Gregory Beck visited the earthquake-ravaged areas in Bohol,  US Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg was in Bohol last Thursday, Dec 12. He mingled with kids at the Maribojoc Central Elem School.  Goldberg and USAid Philippines Program Director Gloria Steele gave school kits and teaching materials which the US government donated to Bohol teachers who lost their kits during the 7.2 magnitude earthquake.

Scene: Christmas season starts with the observance of misa de gallo or simbang gabi on Dec. 16. For nine days ( beginning on December 16 and culminating on December 24), Filipinos wake up in the wee hours of the morning and brave the cold weather, to attend dawn masses which usually start at 4 a.m., as an expression of devotion to God. Traditionally, completing the novena is also supposed to mean that God would grant the devotee’s special wish or favor.

Scene: “Bohol Sings for Hope” album is now on Soundcloud featuring the singles Bangon Boholano and Tugkaran. Full songs and teasers may now be played/downloaded. Help to raise funds for the rebuilding of Bohol! For more info visit facebook.com/bangonboholanomusic or soundcloud.com/bangonboholanomusic and share the music!

Scene: “Where is Miss Bohol Sandugo 2013 Brigitte Burato now?” asked the roving VRS (codenamed May Asim Pa). “There was no shadow of her doing her job as Bohol’s ambassador of goodwill especially during the 7.2 earthquake. I don’t think she’s busy! I hope she can give time to Bohol while the crown is in her head,” added VRS.

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Having met several times during Benjie Oliva’s early days at the Department of Agriculture (DA), it seemed like the two were only meant to be acquaintances. But after being forced to work together, where Atty. Joan Jagonos as the DA’s internal auditor and senior staff and Benjie as the secretary’s regional engagement officer in charge for the regional  trips and activities, the two eventually warmed up to each other and fell in love.

Mr and Mrs. Benjie Oliva

Ihad an exclusive interview with the couple for GMA News when their wedding wascancelled last October after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake hit Bohol where theyshared their beautiful love story. Benjie admitted that it was a love at firstsight when he saw Joan.

What’s surprising to learn was that Benjie was sending flowers to Joan several times. 

It was their compatibility that kept the sparks flying.

I asked Benjie and Joan what was the most beautiful thing about each other inside and out. Benjie enthused, “She is a gift from God. She is the woman that God wants me to marry. Working with her feels like the biggest blessing and such a dream come true.” Joan is grateful for having Benjie by her side. “He is the most unique gift from God.”

On December 7, 2013, Benjie tied the knot with Joan at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Taloto District, in Tagbilaran City, dubbed “wedding of the year.”

The much-anticipated wedding was attended by politicians and generated incredible star power.

The wedding vows were so touching that the well-heeled guests couldn‘t help but cry.

The radiant bride walked down the aisle while the groom was singing Ikaw (popularized by Martin Nievera) accompanied by Major Plus organizer, part of which goes, Ikaw ang bigay ng Maykapal, Tugon sa aking dasal, Upang sa lahat ng panahon, Bawat pagkakataon, Ang ibigin ko’y ikaw, Ikaw ang tanglaw sa ‘king mundo, Kabiyak nitong puso ko, Wala ni kahati mang saglit, Na sa iyo’y may papalit, Ngayo’t kailanma’y ikaw...

The principal sponsors

Recounted Mrs. Lea Fabia, owner of the Philippine Nautical Training Colleges, who was among the teary-eyed guests, “I was touched and teary-eyed when I heard Benjie sang the song Ikaw. I couldn’t help sharing their joys. The overflowing happiness etched on their faces was infectious.”

The groom lovingly looked at his bride, as he said, “I take you to be my wife, my partner in life and my one true love. I will cherish our friendship and love you today, tomorrow, and forever...” and Joan, her eyes fixed on her brand-new husband, answered, “I take you to be my husband, my partner in life and my one true love. I will cherish our friendship and love you today, tomorrow, and forever...”

Anyway, Atty. Ethel Lungay-Reyes, daughter of former Catigbian Mayor and Senior Board Member

Arnold Lungay and one of the secondary sponsors of the wedding, says it all:

The first time I saw on Facebook that Benjie Oliva, a very good friend of mine, was saying words of love, I know it was something more than just an ordinary love story.  When I heard about their story, there was nothing extraordinary either.  Both Benjie and Atty. Joan are connected with the Department of Agriculture, they were introduced by their bosses and they became friends. Benjie was smitten by Joan and he never let her out of his sight.  It didn’t take too long and Benjie finally proposed marriage.

For weeks the couple were very busy in the preparation of their big wedding.  I described it as a Big wedding not only because of the number of the whole entourage but most of all because of the members of the entourage with no less than Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino, Department of Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, Governor Edgar Chatto, Vice Governor Concepcion Lim, Representatives Rene Relampagos, Arthur Yap and Erico Aristotle Aumentado, board members, mayors, undersecretary and directors of the Department of Agriculture and family friends.

The simple love story became extraordinary when the 7.2 magnitude earthquake shook the province of Bohol four days before their chosen church wedding date, October 19, 2013 at the Our Lady of Assumption Parish church, Dauis, Bohol.

The couple decided to move the wedding date and instead motivated everybody to stand on its feet and help the victims.  The earthquake did not shake their love for each other.  It nourished their relationship even more while they roamed around town after town, barangay after barangay to distribute the relief goods to the victims. 

The church wedding of Benjie and Joan was finally held last December 7, 2013 at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Taloto District, Tagbilaran City at 2 pm.

The groom, Benjie, wore a dark suit and the bride, Joan, was very radiant in her white long gown.   The whole entourage was very colorful in red.

The wedding turned out to be a very intimate affair.  The groom sang “Ikaw” while the bride walked down the isle.  The Mass was officiated by Most Rev. Leopoldo S. Tumulak, formerly Bishop of the Diocese of Tagbilaran and co-offciated by Rev. Fr. Avelino S. Vale, Rev. Fr. Vengie D. Laguros, Rev. Fr. Leonel Grado and Rev. Fr. Alger Angcla.

The songs of Major Plus filled the church with music during the wedding ceremony. It was followed by heartwarming songs chosen by the groom and the bride sang by Mr. Jerome Sala during the pictorial.

The reception followed at the Panglao Island Nature Resort, Panglao, Bohol.  The bride and the groom as well as all the guests made the party very warm as they stayed and gamely stayed and participated in the program.

The program was made very lively by the energetic host Miss Gloria Araneta and the Center Stage band.

The first part of the program was capped by a very breathtaking fireworks display. Those who stayed were treated to an all night party with the couple having a fabulous night.

Indeed this is a well loved couple and it was shown by the very successful wedding. The earthquake shook them but their love for each other firmly stood ground.  And now it can be told, their love for each other conquered all.

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Thanks for your letters, all will be answered. Comments welcome at leoudtohan@yahoo.com, follow leoudtohan at Twitter /Facebook.