Where in Bohol should you take Miss Universe 2016 bets?

It's confirmed! The Department of Tourism (DOT) last Thursday confirmed the Philippines will host the next edition of the prestigious Miss Universe pageant.

The Philippines last hosted the Miss Universe tilt in 1994, which crowned Sushmita Sen of India as winner. The country first hosted the pageant in 1974, when Margie Moran relinquished her title to Amparo Muñoz of Spain.

In a press briefing in Manila, Tourism Secretary Wanda Teo said the pageant will be held on January 30, 2017, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Miss Bolivia 2016 Antonella Moscatelli will represent

 her country at Miss Universe 2016 which will be held

 on Jan. 30, 2017 in the Philippines. Every year, thousands of 

young women from 90 countries vie for the title 

of Miss Universe. Who will succeed Pia Wurtzbach

 of the Philippines? Contributed Photo

Teo confirmed the government will not spend on the pageant, estimated to cost $11 million, as several individuals and companies from the private sector have expressed interest to sponsor it.

Last week, reigning Miss Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach was crowdsourcing for places where she will take the candidates once they set foot in the country.  The destinations that were on the top of her mind include Boracay, Cebu, Palawan, Davao, Cagayan de Oro City, Vigan, Bacolod City, and Bohol.

Unfortunately, Bohol was not chosen to host some delegates of the international beauty pageant . Teo  revealed that Vigan, Cebu, Boracay, Palawan, Davao and Cagayan de Oro City, the hometown of 2015 Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach, were chosen as areas for the pre-pageant activities.

Some of our Boholano friends were sad of this news. Sigh, sigh, sigh! But what if, that is a big if, some of Miss U candidates will visit Bohol?

Where in Bohol should you take Miss Universe 2016 bets?

Jeycelle Espejo-Inting- The Chocolate hills, blood compact shrine, man-made forest, Loboc river with a brief show from Loboc Children's Choir and  Youth Ambassador. Why Choco hills? It's what we are most known of. I will let them experience the traditional kalamay making in Jagna and the traditional sundang making in Loay town.

Fiel Angeli Araoarao-Gabin- I will show them the tourist attractions in Panglao Island and Carmen town.

Phil Malaran Magallano- I will bring them to Panglao which is famous for white-sandy beaches. I will also take them to Carmen, my hometown, to see the world-famous Chocolates Hills.

Cogon councilor Phil Magallano says 

he loves to bring the Miss Universe candidates 

to Carmen to marvel at the beauty of Chocolate Hills.

Contributed Photo

Van Delima- Anda. It’s pristine.

Ferome Almine- I’ll bring them to the known beauty spots in Bohol such as chocolate hills, beautiful beaches of Panglao and Anda.  I’ll bring them to our old stone churches and the places that were devastated by an earthquake so that people all over the world will see how resilient and how Boholanos cope up after a tragedy. I will also bring them to not so known nature scenic spots like falls in Candijay and Dimiao so that it could be an eye opener of everyone that we have many things to offer and it can generate income to all local residents.

Ritchel Mutia- South Palms to experience the beach setting of Bohol.

Tracy Remolador-Torres- I will bring them to Anda. The place holds a vast amount of untouched attractions.

***

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

A misty-eyed look at 1st Sandugo Kuradang

Last Friday’s Sandugo street-dancing competition had a new twist.  It had infused kuradang, a native Visayan dance practiced in Bohol, Cebu, Leyte and Panay, that might had a culture shock for the Boholano millenials.

The kuradang dancing competition, the reinvented street-dancing festival competition, used the kuradang as the main basis and inspiration of this year’s dance competition to make it more rooted in Boholano aesthetics in music, dance and content.  It had also put emphasis on the Sanduguan of Miguel Lopes de Legazpi and Rajah Si Katuna.

The kuradang dancing competition, the reinvented street-dancing

 festival competition reflects the soul of Bohol.  Leo Udtohan/Chronicle

There were eight contingents- Holy Name University, Bohol Island State University, Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School, and the local government units of Balilihan, Mabini, Baclayon, Loon and Tubigon- who accepted the challenge.

The performers tugged at the audience’s (including yours truly, Liza Macalandag and Doris Dinorog-Obena) heartstrings, with its nostalgic body movement, music and earnest look at traditional Boholano dance.

I chanced upon Prof. Marianito Luspo at the street-dancing competition. He said the “Bangga sa Kuradang ug Subli sa Sandugo” was new and untested. But Friday’s reactions from the audience and dancers, it seemed kuradang has seeped through the fancy of the Boholano young and old.

“They feel..it comes from inside of us. It is not something that is imposed from outside.  This is something worthwhile, something we can proud of, something we can claim our own,” Luspo said.

Kuradang is dance during social gatherings such as birthday, baptism, wedding and fiesta because of its lively moves and the life it gives to the gatherings. It is dance with the accompaniment of the rondalla that it makes kuradang flared, brisk and romantic.

The kuradang, a courtship dance, imitates the playful "birig" or courting movements of the aggressive rooster and coy hen.

The province’s official dance is kuratcha Boholana. However, many people considered kuradang their unofficial dance because of its popularity and familiarity in the island.

I grew up watching kuradang and balitaw in some gatherings, fiestas and programs. The low profile Ubi festival gives importance to kuradang and balitaw as one of the highlights of the festival.  It has the best kuradang dancers (from Sevilla, Catigbian and Loboc) discovered during the contest. The dancers have mastered the awkward movement of the body, the stamp of the feet, the twist of the hips and snaps of the fingers. 

Yes, I shed tears seeing this year’s contingents gave justice to our own dance. I was overwhelmed they showed us how to dance the kuradang with dignity and pride.

As I went home, the soundtrack of my memory keeps playing a Max Surban song, Sayawon ta ang kuradang, ang sayaw nga kinaraan, maoy paborito sa mga tigulang, ang nindot nga sayaw nga kuradang...Yes, indeed: I can say that Kuradang dance reflects the soul of Bohol. Thus, kuradang for Sandugo was just perfect.

SANDUGO 2016 RESULTS

Bangga Sa Kuradang ug Subli sa Sandugo 2016

MINOR Awards
Best Pair for Kuradang King & Queen - Brgy. Napo, Loon, Bohol
Best Pair for Sikatuna & Legaspi - Balilihan LGU
Best In Costume - Holy Name University
Most Authentic Group - Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School
Most Colorful Group - Brgy. Napo, Loon, Bohol

MAJOR Awards
Best In Kuradang Street Dancing - Brgy. Napo, Loon, Bohol
Best in Sandugo Reenactment - Balilihan LGU

2nd runner up - Balilihan LGU
1st runner up - Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School
Champion - Brgy. Napo, Loon, Bohol

***

Doctor warns against swallowing santol seeds

The market stands are packed with santol (cotton fruit), a delicious yellow-orange fruit Filipinos love to eat.  Imagine, the ripe, soft and juicy santol fruit can make out mouths watery.

But, swallowing the santol seeds can be dangerous.

Dr. Carlo C. Gurrea warns the public particularly

 children not to swallow santol seeds. Leo Udtohan/Chronicle

Two weeks ago, a 51-year-old man was hospitalized after swallowing 120 santol seeds.

Bienvenido Fernandez, a resident of Barangay Putlongcam in Alicia town, at least 103 km from the capital city of Tagbilaran, binged on santol last Tuesday night.

Fernandez said he ate about 30 pieces of the fruit, which had four seeds each. Instead of spitting out the seeds after gnawing its sweet and sour flesh, he swallowed all 120 of these.

The following day, Fernandez was brought to the Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital in Tagbilaran City after he complained of stomachache.

The physicians conducted an ultrasound on his stomach and decided to conduct a surgery if he would not be able to flush out the seeds on his own.

Fernandez was able to defecate the seeds one after the other by Friday night.

Most Filipinos have the habit of swallowing santol seeds because they were unaware the seeds would post a serious health threat.

Dr. Carlo C. Gurrea has warned the public particularly children not to swallow seeds since the seeds are indigestible.

“It may cause intestinal injury,” he said.

Gurrea, a practicing surgeon, also said that if the intestine is punctured, germs can escape to the stomach and cause infection which might result to death if not treated in time.

***

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

VP Robredo takes daughters on a bonding trip to Bohol; Bohol teachers use gadget to 'preserve voice'

•VP Robredo takes daughters on a bonding trip to Bohol

• Bohol teachers use gadget to 'preserve voice'

Cristopher Boncales felt nervous when he was tasked to give tour to the country’s second highest official who visited Bohol last Wednesday.

“I was speechless because I was nervous,” he told VRS.  He admitted that he was at a loss for words when he came face-to-face with Vice President elect Leni Robredo. He was relieved when the soft-spoken Robredo was smiling to him asking him simple inquiries on the places they went on Bohol.

Boncales, 40, a tour guide of 22 years, has been guiding VIPs, ambassadors and other high ranking officials to Bohol. He said it was a privilege guiding the Robredo and her family of their Bohol countryside tour.

Vice President elect Leni Robredo listens

 to tour guide Cristopher Boncalez (blue shirt) 

during their Loboc river cruise last Wednesday. 

Courtesy: Liza Macalandag

“She was very much interested on Bohol. She was interested about the Chocolate Hills, tarsier and Loboc River River,” said Boncales.

With only two weeks before she assumes office as the land's second highest official, Robredo and her three daughters- Aika, Trisha at Jillian- were visiting Bohol last Monday. 

Robredo took a break from work for some quality time with her daughters. She said her vacation was a family bonding because she missed taking care of her daughters during her poll campaign in the last 10 months.

“Ito kasi bakayon sa mga bata. Iniwasan ko talaga magtrabaho kasi halos na-neglect ko sila halos ng 10 months.  Eh, ngayon ito talaga para sa kanila,” Robredo told VRS in an interview in Loboc town.

Although Robredo was visiting Bohol thrice, it was this vacation she was able to explore the province’s tourist attractions.

“Masaya ako..ilang beses na din  akong nakapunta pero ngayon lang yata ako makakaikot.  Lahat na punta ko lahat trabaho. Ngayon lang talaga kasama ang mga anak ko ko na bibisita sa mga must- see na mga sights dito sa Bohol,” she said.

The family went to Oslob, Cebu for whale shark watching last Tuesday morning.  After Oslob, they went to Balicasag Island off Panglao town for snorkelling. Balicasag Island is a known world-class diving site.

Last Wednesday, they visited the Chocolate Hills in Carmen town. They also visited the man-made Loboc  and posed with the tarsier considered the smallest primate in the world. At 11 a.m., they had lunch at Loboc River together with Loboc Mayor Helen Calipusan-Alaba, provincial administrator Alfonso Ae Damalerio, Benjie Oliva and tour operator Lourdes Sultan.

During a stopover at the end of Loboc River for a cruise, the Robredo family joined with a local dance group which entertains the “cruisers.”

Robredo said she was not able to thank some Boholanos who voted for her last May 9 elections. She garnered 272, 649 votes in Bohol.

“Hindi pa lahat. Babalik ako,” she said.

With only two weeks before she assumes office as the land's second highest official, Vice President elect Leni Robredo has taken her daughters - Aika, Trisha at Jillian- on a special trip, spending quality time with the girls in Bohol province. With the Robredo family are Loboc Mayor Helen Calipusan and Travel Village owner Lourdes Sultan. Courtesy: Liza Macalandag

For  Damalerio,  the visit of  Robredo can help boost the tourism of  Bohol.  He said Robredo has recognized Bohol’s huge potentials in making a substantial contribution to national economic growth.

“Well, she assured she will promote Bohol,” said Damalerio who accompanied Robredo in her countryside tour.

“It was her first time to see Bohol, almost all the tourist attractions in Bohol. When she was here it was purely campaign. Now, she saw the wealth and wonder of Bohol,” added Damalerio.

The annual tourist arrival in Bohol is pegged at 500,000, a report from the Bohol Tourism Office. But the figure is expected to increase to 1.7 million per year once construction of the new P7.14-billion Bohol airport on Panglao Island is completed.

Robredo was mobbed by supporters during her stopovers. She gamely mingled with supporters and fans and participated in some photo opportunities.

Robredo said she has yet to talk with President-elect Rodrigo Duterte regarding her possible appointment to the incoming Cabinet.

Duterte and Robredo will hold separate inauguration ceremonies on June 30.

Robredo would be in Cebu City on June 28 to administer the oath of Cebu  City Mayor-elect Tomas Osmeña, a good friend of her husband, the late Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo who died of plane crash in Masbate in August 2012.

***

Teachers use gadget to 'preserve voice'

As classes opened on Monday, Rochelle Marie Bolotaolo’s voice rises above the usual classroom noises and distractions, such as the clatter of students hustling through the hallway, and a noise from an on-going construction of classroom buildings. The students can still hear her clearer. But that's not because she's shouting rather, Bolotaolo is addressing her students through a wireless microphone clipped to her uniform. 

Bolotaolo, 33, who has been teaching at the already congested Dr. Cecilio Putong National High School (DCPNHS) for five years, uses a portable sound system (lavalier or lapel microphone), a wireless, hands-free microphone to be heard by her students.

Grade 7 teacher Rochelle Marie Bolotaolo of Dr. Cecilio Putong 

National High School  in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, is using a portable 

sound system to be heard by her oversized class.

Leo Udtohan/Chronicle

“There is buzzing noise outside so I need to use a lapel,” said Bolotaolo.

She said she has been using the portable sound system for four years. She said she found it practical and effective.

"It is very effective. Aside from the microphone there is a USB I can use for my lesson,” she said.

Without the gadget, Bolotaolo said it would be next to impossible for her students to hear her as the noise of ongoing construction of more classrooms in DCPNHS drowns out class lessons.

And with 50 students, Bolotaolo can’t expect to be heard clearly by everyone in her class.

Bolotaolo’s class can be considered oversized as the ideal class size is only 45 students for high school and 35 for elementary school.

She said she had experienced fatigue before because she had to strain her voice.  

It’s the effect of lack of classrooms and more students as a result of the K-12 program that adds more years to basic elementary and high school education to meet international standards.

Another Grade 7 teacher, Jeanette Yenogacio, said she used the sound system to prevent too much strain on her vocal chords.

Virgilia Omictin, principal of Dr. Cecilio Putong 

National High School, says the gadget  

can prevent teacher’s fatigue since it can decrease teachers' 

voice strain, increase students' attention and aid in 

classroom participation as the country is

 implementing the K-12 program. Leo Udtohan/Chronicle

“I should preserve my voice because I still have six sections to handle,” Yenogacio said. The gadget, she said, helps her students,” even those seated at the back,” to hear her.

Boloatolo and Yenogacio bought the gadgets using their own money. They, however, don’t mind dipping into their own pockets because they know it would be for the benefit of their students.

“I believe better sound will translate into better learning. I noticed the students can absorb the lessons well,” said Yenogacio.  

Yenogacio noticed that her students were attentive and focus on the class.

“My students can hear me clearer and better,” she said.

Yenogacio, who was one of the teachers who used the portable sound system, recalled that she lost her voice a couple of times and suffered several sore throats when she was not using the gadget while teaching.

She said before none of the teachers wanted to wear the gadget. At least seven out of 150 teachers at DCPNHS are using lapel mic.

 “At first, none of us really wanted to wear mic lapel but years after we get used to it,” she said.

While education officials had said everything is set for the start of the school year and senior high school, perennial problems remain.

Class sizes had to be expanded and schools use one room for two or more classes, held by shifts, to cope with lack of classrooms.

Virgilia Omictin, DCPNHS principal, said she is encouraging teachers to use portable sound system since it is helpful.

“It can prevent teacher’s fatigue,” she said.

She also said by using the gadget, it can decrease teachers' voice strain, increase students' attention and aid in classroom participation.

"I think it has had an impact in the classroom teaching," Omictin said.

DCPNHS, which has at least 5,000 students this school year, hold classes from 6 a.m. to noon and from noon to 6 p.m. to accommodate two classes per room.

Omictin anticipated the school population to increase by 4 or 5 percent.

Grade 11, or senior high school, classes are to be held in morning and afternoon shifts.

In August, Omictin said two buildings with 16 classrooms would be finished and these could ease the shortage of rooms.

“But we are K-12 ready,” quipped Omictin.

***

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

Meet Caloi: The Gentleman of Bohol

You blink and when you look again, there’s Carlo Roy Gorospe Roslinda  all grown up, who is one of the candidates of the Gentlemen of the Philippines 2016, so totally different from the Mr UB Personality 2008 winner (he was adjudged Best in Talent and Best in Interview).

So who’s driving Caloi “crazy” these days?

Caloi, 27, has been preparing for the Gentlemen of the Philippines for months and has undergone rigorous physical trainings as well as Q&A training under the supervision of his manager James Obedencio and some friends.

Caloi says he has always been in shape but admits he has to work extremely hard to achieve his impressive physique for the competition.

The Gentleman of Bohol: Carlo Roy Gorospe Roslinda 

Courtesy: TJ Medrana/TJ Medrana Photography

“I started to hit the gym and workout six days a week to cope with the right body I need for the competition,” says Caloi, who is also an orator.  (He was Mr STEP 2003 Gold awardee in Oration 2005 of the Boy Scout of the Philippines Regional Timpalakan, Orator of the Year 2006 at Tagbilaran City Science High School  and Gold Tirol awardee for Oration-Declamation 2010 at University of Bohol) .

But in the run-up to the competition he has to stick to a strict diet of protein and vegetables only.  “I love eating and I eat a lot. I eat almost anything with at least two cups of rice in the morning and no rice for dinner and more and more and more protein. Ha! Ha! Ha! It’s been a long time that I refuse junkfood, alcohol and soda,” he admits.

He is also using holistic approach.  “Aside keeping my body fit with enough sleep and right diet, I also study on social issues and my Elderly Health and Wellness Advocacy, surround myself with positive people and most importantly always make time to go to church and pray. I have to balance all those to my time with family and work too,” he says.

Caloi was born in Loon town. One of the four siblings, he finished his elementary at Victoriano D. Tirol Advanced Learning Center and high school at Tagbilaran City Science High School. He is a registered nurse. He graduated magna cum laude from University of Bohol where he also finished his Masters of Arts in Nursing major in Medical-Surgical Nursing. At present, he is finishing his Doctor of Science in Nursing major in Gerontology at Cebu Normal University.

An Aquarian (Jan. 30), Caloi (son of Artemio and Glory Roslinda), stands 5’10 1/2”, weights 155 lbs.; and wears medium-size shirt and size-10 shoes.

So what is sexy to Caloi who is making women — and other creatures besides — swoon?

“Sexiness is a matter of perspective. It is just all in the mindset. We are sexy if we believe we are,” says Caloi. “It must start from within (heart and mind) and let it radiate into the outside.”

And when he feels sexy? “Every second of everyday!”

What part of a woman’s body does he consider sexiest? “The lips and the hands.”

"Being sexy is simply looking good inside and out,” say Carlo Roy Gorospe Roslinda, Bohol’s official candidate to the Gentleman of the Philippines.   Courtesy: Alfredo Bascones Jr/ ABJr Photography

His love life? He’s single…and available? Caloi says he likes girls who are simply beautiful, smart and with sense of humor. “I like her to make me smile every day.”

To know more about Caloi, VRS asked him to complete some questions:

I hate people... who are arrogant and fussy.

I avoid people... who I think will cause so much trouble and are uninspiring.

My greatest pleasure is ...making people happy… and event hosting.

My worst moment is...procrastinating. I always do that.

My biggest fear is... death and isolation.

I pray for... the elderly people in the community that they may find happiness in aging.

The most important persons in my life are... my parents. They made me experience love beginning in my childhood and until now in order for me to give out love to others too.

If I would reincarnate as an animal, I would be... a dog. I will be everybody’s best friend.

 My most traumatic experience was...I almost lost my left leg to a traffic accident. • I deal with gossip by- taking a deep breath and refocusing on making myself better.

Am I afraid of growing old? ...No. Growing old means experiencing new things and learning more.

My philosophy in life is... “Hardship often prepares an ordinary person for an extraordinary destiny.”

 My most memorable miracle was... being able to join and represent the province of Bohol for Gentlemen of the Philippines 2016. Among all who dreamed of joining, I was so blessed that I made it to the shortlist after a rigid background check and screenings. Unfolding everyday blessings is a miracle.

I lose my temper when... My points are not being heard.

I am happiest when... I am surrounded with the people that matters most to me- my Family and true friends.

I am saddest when... my efforts are not recognized.

My ultimate goal is... to be a better individual each and every day.

 What I like about myself... my humility… and my height.

What I don’t like about myself... I am asthmatic and it attacks when I am too pressured.

Face-to-face with God, I’d tell him... Lord God, I hope I am making you proud and happy. You really do a good job for all of us. Thank you for all the blessings you share to us and please keep my family and my love ones protected from harm.

***

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

Petche Ann Vale – A beauty queen with infectious smile

When Petche Ann “Che Anne” Vale, Bohol's official entry to Mutya ng Pilipinas 2016, visited Friday’s inaugural session at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, lawmakers and visitors said she stole the show with a saucy strut, an infectious smile and a calm self-confidence that catapulted her to provincial attention.

Che Ann, 20, a Radiologic Technology graduate from Bohol International College, hails from Barangay Agape, Loboc, the music town of the province.

She is the second Lobocanon to join the Mutya ng Pilipinas and the third Boholana to do so. Other Mutya aspirants from Bohol were Noemi Naron (Miss Bohol Sandugo 2005 who was a semi-finalist in Mutya ng Pilipinas 1996) and Aileene Ella Dango who represented Loboc in Mutya ng Pilipinas 2010.

Petche Ann Vale Leo Udtohan/Chronicle

Che Ann—the eldest of three daughters—loves music. She can play any instrument. But just like other people in the community, she prefers the clarinet and the alto saxophone. She is a member of the Loboc Ambassador Youth Band since elementary.

“Music for me is a song of life,” said Che Ann, who stands 5’9, weighs 110 lbs., measures 32-24-35 and wears small-size shirt.

Che Ann was being encouraged to join beauty pageants even when she was a kid.

“When I was younger I would really love to watch Miss Universe,” she said.

In grade school, she was made fun of because of her height and curly hair.

“They called me silhig (broom) or kawayan (bamboo),” she recalled. “I wanted to be short like my classmates!”

It was only last year, when she started to do modeling that she embraced her statuesque beauty. She was declared Miss Bohol International College 2015 first-runner-up. There's no doubt about what makes the pageant winner stand out. Her 'girl-next-door' charm coupled with her envious figure and stunning face is topped off by a really captivating smile.

“I feel like pageants are a great opportunity to push yourself and really see how great you can be so I join Mutya,” she said.

Che Ann is also using her time as part-time model to confront negative stereotypes about her color- piel morena and the pageant industry.

But beauty pageant experts say it is precisely because she is tall and piel morena she has gotten so much attention. Her skin color has long been celebrated as the most beautiful.

This Loboc stunner is going rigorous and intense training for her two-week preparations for the Mutya.

Tomorrow, Che Ann will be in Manila for her Mutya journey. She hopes that she can bring home the crown and it can be her break into a modeling career that could help her earn enough money for her family and for the board examination.

“Che Ann has a personal story that other Mutya candidates just don’t have,” said Khim Magtagad (aka Nicole Khim Gonzales) of The Art Nouveau Modeling Group, who now helps Che Ann. “She is a beauty queen from Bohol who is confidently beautiful with a heart.”

Petche Ann Vale has charms us with her perfect beauty queen’s smile. Leo Udtohan/Chronicle

To know more about Vale, VRS asked her to complete some questions:

I hate people… who throw negative things about me and who put me down.

I avoid people… who are gossip-mongers (libakera, paki-alamera and hilabtanon).

I pray that God...will guide me towards my journey in Mutya ng Pilipinas 2016.  And that He will give me the 100 percent courage, strength and confidence. And hopefully I will get the crown.

The most important person in my life is... my family because they are the one who taught me everything and they are the main reason why I am here.

If I were to be reincarnated as an animal I would be...I really want to become a bird, because I really wanted to fly high, see how far can I go, and what’s beneath up in the sky and  how the world is moving.

Am I afraid of growing old? I am not afraid of growing old. It’s just a number!

I deal with gossip by... smiling because I know myself more than they know. As in walk first into my shoe so that you  will know my story, before you will say anything.

My philosophy in life is... try and try until you succeed. There is nothing wrong when I will try at least I have measure and test myself. And I can correct my mistakes if I get it wrong.

I am happy... when I get to see my family all the time.

 I am saddest... when I left alone and no one to talk to, specially when I have problems in life.

My ultimate goal is.... for now is to be A Mutya Ng Pilipinas 2016. Of course, with your support!

What I love my self..... I am simple person.

What I hate myself...I am so shy.

Face-to-face with God, I’d tell Him....God, please guide me and my loved ones.

***

A ‘memo’ to Bohol’s who’s who, leaders, et al

A few years ago, VRS casually mentioned a "memo" to Bohol's who's who, et al, you know, for them to "behave" if they don't want publicity and blind item not to their liking.

Last week, a servant of the Lord "blamed" the media in his homily. Then, a newbie lawmaker didn't skip to include the media people in her speech. To quote the lady lawmaker: "To our media friends and foes, please practice good journalism. Let me quote at what President Rodrigo Duterte said of the three types of journalists. First, the crusaders of truth. Second, the paid mouthpieces of journalism… mouthpieces of politicians, rather. Third, the extortionists or the vultures of journalism who destroy family and.... . So, dear media friends and foes, which category do you belong? I leave the answer to you." 

On the other hand, we thank the lawmaker for her “friendly” reminder. Thank you, and oucchh!!

As a tradition, here is a “recycled memo" to Bohol's who's who (businessmen including their sons and daughters, public officials, partygoers, beauty queens, models, fashion icons, feeling who’s who, wannabees, et al—you know, for them to "behave" if they don't want publicity and blind item not to their liking.

Memo 1-Don’t talk when your mouth is full. It’s bad to talk when you have “something” in your mouth.  Be careful what you say or do, and how you say or do it in public. It might get you in trouble.  Likewise, don’t talk about other people’s lives and businesses when you are with someone or in public. The walls have eyes. Remember your teacher in Filipino who shared her favorite salawikain: “May pakpak ang balita, may tainga ang lupa.” Bow!

Memo 2- Don’t go bar hopping or attend a party with your “ex.” Don’t go in public with your friend’s wife or husband or even making tsika tsika of an old friend for old time’s sake to avoid being misinterpreted.

Memo 3- Be discreet. If you can't be careful or can't behave, be discreet . People are listening, and watching, every move you make. For example, if you are going to meet, meet elsewhere. Take separate transportation. When you have a date in a restaurant in Tagbilaran City or in towns, pretend that you don't know each other. Avoid holding hands, meaningful actions or dropping tell-tale in public. The public eyes are cruel.

Memo 4- For a Freudian slip, here's an unsolicited advice from a friend lawyer: Love your wife above all, don't fall in love, it's for companionship and for sex, don't leave evidence like a baby, and family first. If you’re caught, just deny to death!

Memo 5- Please behave. Don’t post “nasty” or inappropriate pictures in your Facebook account. Remember, Facebook is not your friend.

Memo 6-Be careful on what you wear when you are in public. Well-mannered people behave in public. People care less if you’re wild at home; they care about what you do in public.

Memo 7- Don’t react on blind items. Deny that it is not you in the blind item. If you text or tell the writer that you are the subject of a blind item, it’s an admission of guilt.

Memo 8- Ignore the issue. People will make it a fiesta menu for three or seven days and they will be tired talking about it and they will be craving for another menu. If you can’t take the issue, vanish or get lost.

Memo 9- Be modest. Don’t flaunt your wealth in public if you are a public official. Don’t live a lavish lifestyle. Don’t be vain. Extravagant lifestyles are one of the most obvious indicators of corruption and among the easiest to document.

Memo 10- Deadma or disappear.  Just let the issues die a natural death. Remember, the more you react, the more people become intrigue. Plain and simple, if you can't swim, don't.

Memo 11- Relax. Don't go berserk and run after media people who report about your indiscretions. Remember, the poor press guys are just reporting the “crimes” you have committed. Remember, the media isn’t the perpetrator of the “crime,” it doesn’t make things happen but only reports what’s happening. Thank them anyway; it will melt their cruel hearts.

Memo 12 - Know the curse.  There is a curse of being public. Because of the nature of one's job, one can lose his/her right to invoke the right to privacy especially if one is in public service where a public servant derives his/her power from public trust. What he/she presents to his/her public is open to scrutiny and therefore, judgment by the people he/she serves.

Memo 13- Be grateful.  We all know that public office is a public trust. It is always a great privilege to hold an office, more so a public office and to render service honestly and fairly without fear or favor. The greater or higher is the office, the greater is the responsibility. Spideman said, “With great power comes great responsibility.”  But Tarsing said, “Ngano ming-enter!

 

As a public property be ready to be analyzed, criticized, roasted, but praised if deserving.

As the famous cliché goes: In this lifetime, you cannot avoid gossips and unkind words from other people. I mean, whatever you do, you will never please everybody. It is a universal precept and you cannot dodge it… so quit trying. Enjoying your life and let them be. But remember: Don’t resent the fact people keep on checking on you. Besides, if you weren’t worth anything they wouldn’t bother.

***

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

Fashion highlights from Bohol’s inauguration

Rodrigo “Rody” Duterte from Davao City took his oath of office last Thursday as the 16th president of the Philippines at Malacañan Palace in Manila.

 

Gov. Edgar Chatto recites his
third-term official oath as daughter
 Trisha holds a Christian Bible and
first lady Balilihan Mayor Pureza Chatto
 looks on during swearing-in ceremony
at the Bohol Cultural Center on Thursday morning. Contributed Photo

He told the Filipinos that “I am ready to start my work for the nation.”

 

In his inaugural address, Duterte listed what he considers the ills of society: Corruption, criminality, rampant sale of illegal drugs and the breakdown of law and order.

 

He also said the erosion of trust in government, tainted with corruption, has to be restored.

 

Duterte’s speech was fluent---stringent in words and magnanimous in essence.

Lawyer Dionisio Balite surrounded by his
 family swearing in as Bohol Vice Governor. Contributed Photo

 

“His Excellency President Rody Duterte delivered a very sincere and heartfelt presidential speech,” said youth awardee Clement Lofranco.  

 

“Moreover, he resonated the themes and clarified the mandate and itemized the programs and framing the fundamental problems of governance like the erosion of trust from the people to the government and the message of real change that must start from each one of us,” he added.

 

In Bohol, Edgar Chatto officially began his third and last term as Bohol’s governor  last Thursday, taking the oath of office in a low-key ceremony at the Bohol Cultural Center and preparing to provide the province of his vision for the next three years on Monday.

 

Bien Unido Mayor Gisela
 Bendong-Boniel and board
member Niño  Rey Boniel. Courtesy: Nestor Daarol

It was a crisp and flawless event that Chatto and other public officials--- Vice Gov. Dionisio Balite, Reps. Rene Relampagos, Erico Aristotle Aumentado and Art Yap--- recited the constitutionally mandated avowal, word for word.  With their spouses and families, the public officials quickly repeated the words from their administering officers.

 

After the swearing-in, Relampagos, Aumentado, Yap, Balite and Chatto delivered their inaugural addresses.

 

The biggest sidelight of this year’s inaugural and oathtaking ceremonies was the red carpet where the province’s government officials and then some have come to make a statement.  We’re paying to all the pretty outfits!

 

Dazzling ternos and dashing barongs worn by the officials and their spouses make the ceremonies solemn, dignified and formal.

 

The men decided to stick with the traditional plain barong Tagalog.

 

The traditional Filipina formal wear that is the terno was in the limelight.

 

Provincial board members Jade
Acapulco Bautista and Alexi Tutor
 Courtesy: Nestor Daarol

Board member Kristine Alexis Tutor made a big statement during the event with her simple yet sleek figure-hugging gown that emphasized her curves. She instantly became a hot topic with audience complementing her.   She has a keen eye for style, right?

 

New lawmaker Jade Acapulco Bautista had a dazzling look on her Filipiniana. Her entire look was totally sustainable that she had us all talking.

 

The audience were also quick to notice how confidently beautiful Balilihan Mayor Pureza Chatto and her daughter Trisha in their purple-colored terno. They wore them with dignity and pride.

Bohol's Queen of All Media Ardy
 Araneta-Batoy Contributed Photo

 

Bien Unido Mayor Gisela Bendong-Boniel left the audience open-mouthed after showing her stunning figure in a sleek deep-blue gown.  The lady aviator did not need an interview nor a red carpet to turn heads at the event. She was there to support her husband board member Niño Rey Boniel. 

 

The Balite ladies (and girls) were wearing shade of pink-colored cocktail dresses making a big statement during the event. Color pink is unconditional love and nurture.

 

Another real highlight was Ardy Araneta-Batoy (who was the event’s emcee. Take a bow, Ma’am Ardy!) who wore  a dazzling lemongrass gown.  Bohol’s Queen of All Media understood special occasion dressing.

 

Aside from gushing about their looks, the usherettes (mostly from the Capitol) were wearing ternos.

           

***

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