Maris Igpit, Tommy Taylor exchange I do’s

Wake-uppers:

Scene: The world-famous Loboc Children’s Choir in Bangladesh.

Scene: The CenterStage band will have a new vocalist. This was announced by Ariel Fullido, the band’s manager. He posted on Facebook: “Quite pretty, sexy and a singer in her own right, Mutya sa Tagbilaran 2016 3rd Runner-Up, Natalie Belle Mcgaw, is a new prospect vocalist for CenterStage band. She will perform tonight with the band, together with Yeyet and Jussica in a wedding reception at the beachfront of Henann Resort.”

***

The former beauty queen and the Aussie football player are now officially husband and wife.

Anna Maris Igpit and Thomas Luke Taylor finally tied the knot in a church wedding last Friday at the St. Augustine Church in Panglao town.

The newly-wed Anna Maris Igpit and Tommy Taylor with Fr. Val Pinlac.

Photo taken from Anna Maris Igpit’s Facebook account

The church wedding was private and intimate, said VRS.

“Only immediate families and close friends witnessed the exchanged of "I Do's",” said VRS.

VRS added that it was a very meaningful and solemn mass celebration.

“No decors, no videos, no photographers, just with the people who matters to the couple,” added VRS.

The wedding was officiated by Fr. Val Pinlac who also gave a beautiful homily.

Among the celebrities who attended the wedding include Miss Hong Kong China 2006  Janet Ka Wai Chow and Miss World Singapore 2006 and Mrs. World 2008 Colleen Francisca Pereira (who were Maris’ friends during the Miss World 2006 in Warsaw, Poland), Jonathan Chiongbian Aldeguer of Island Souvenirs, Miss Grand International 2015 2^nd runner-up Parul Shah, et al.

According to VRS, Maris and Tommy will spend their honeymoon in Thailand.

A beach wedding followed at South Palms Beach Resort last Saturday attended by many politicians, friends and well-wishers.

Anna Maris Igpit with her Miss World 2006 friends -  Mrs. World 2008 Colleen Francisca Pereira (l) and Miss Hong Kong China 2006  Janet Ka Wai Chow during the Despedida de Soltera in Panglao town. Photo taken from Anna Maris Igpit’s Facebook account

Maris and Tommy have been a couple for over two years before tying the knot.  They were engaged in August 2014.

“2016 will be a new chapter for me as I build myself to become a wife and start my own family. I have finally found my bestfriend and soulmate who I will share this dream with and I am looking forward to what our future will bring us,”  Maris told VRS last January.

Taylor was the midfielder of the Kaya Futbol Club, a Filipino association football club based in Makati City. They were currently playing in the first division of the United Football League.

Maris was crowned Miss Bohol Sandugo 2005 and Bb. Pilipinas-World 2006. She was behind the Oplan Bangon Bohol campaign to help the victims of the 7.2 magnitude earthquake that hit Bohol in 2013.  

***

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Anna Maris Igpit engaged to Aussie football player

Boholana beauty queen Anna Maris Arcay Igpit is ready to walk down the aisle.

Anna Maris Igpit and Tommy Taylor. 

(Photo taken from Anna Maris Igpit’s Instagram account)

Maris is now engaged to Aussie football player Thomas “Tommy” Luke Taylor.

Maris shared the happy news on her Instagram page, posting a photo of her showing off her new bling. 

"On a romantic night in the beautiful island of Panglao...i said YES!!!," Maris captioned the photo. She and Taylor have been dating for years.

Taylor also posted on Facebook, “The love of my life Anna Maris Igpit .. She said Yess!!! #happiestmanalive#loveyoububz.”

Taylor is the midfielder of the Kaya Futbol Club, a Filipino association football club based in Makati City. They are currently playing in the first division of the United Football League.

Maris was crowned Miss Bohol Sandugo 2005 and Bb. Pilipinas-World 2006. She was behind the Oplan Bangon Bohol campaign to help the victims of the 7.2 magnitude earthquake that hit Bohol in 2013.  

As soon as Maris announced the engagement, her Facebook was flooded with congratulations and wishes.

Anna Maris Igpit shares 

a glimpse of her engagement 

ring. (Photo taken from Anna Maris Igpit’s Instagram account)

During the AYBM's 17th anniversary last Aug. 17, Maris and Taylor attended the event together.

“Engaged...congrats to my daughter Anna Maris Igpit! I’m happy for you...,” said Maricor Igpit, Maris mom.

No wedding date has been set.

***

Another yummy place in Panglao

Binalot Panglao is one of Bohol’s hidden culinary gems that offers Filipino dishes wrapped in banana leaves.

In Filipino, binalot means “wrapped.”  The owner of Binalot Rommel Juan had been inspired by his memories from childhood, when food used to be served in banana leaves during family picnics. The re-discovery of an age-old but very clever Filipino dining practice much better than styrofoam lunch packs – banana leaves! The “banana leaves” are a welcome, refreshing substitute to the non-biodegradable styrofoam box.

“I like the way the taste stays even after you ate them,” shares Bon Ryan Bongato. “It's affordable and great to eat during the mountain side and island hopping tours, beach party and any other types of party, family gathering and even just eating within our homes.” 

Binalot Panglao feels so Filipino with their Filipino

 foods wrapped in banana leaf.

Ian Grupo says, “I love the taste... Good and cheap food in the area. I want to go back here.”

Bestsellers at Binalot Panglao restaurant are their Tapa rap sarap (P99), Vivo Tocino (P85), Sinigang with a bang (P85), Pork bongga longganisa ( P85), Its dat you pork BBQ (P85), Bistek Walasyik (P99), No bones daing nab angus (P99), Anytime Inihaw na baboy (P109),   Sisig na makisig (P80), Pride Tilapia (P99) and Fiesta Adobo (All pork for P104, All chicken for P124, and chicken and pork for P114).

They have also their Ulam sa Bilao for parties, family picnic, school blowout and barkada gimmick.

To end your meal, make sure to order the halo halo and mais con yelo.

Visit Binalot Panglao at #2, Tawala, Panglao.  For 

Binalot Panglao offers affordable and yummy Filipino foods.

inquiries and deliveries, call Binalot Panglao at (038) 502-4946 or 0925-5004627.

***

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Boholanos happy for Megan Young’s Miss World 2013 victory

Wake-uppers:

Scene: October 15, 2013 has been declared a regular public holiday in the Philippines in observance of Eidul Adha (the Feast of Sacrifice), considered as one of the two greatest feasts of Islam.  Eidul Adha remembers prophet Ibrahim (Abraham)'s consent when he agreed to sacrifice his first-born son to submit to commands of God, who later intervened to provide him with a lamb to sacrifice. 

Megan Young Courtesy: MWO

Scene: The Charity Rummage Sale is today, Oct. 6, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. at 1 G. Visarra Street, Tagbilaran City, Bohol. There are three ways to help: Give (donate any good quality unwanted goods), sell (set up your own stall, donate part of your proceeds to charity or to a pre-nominated charity of your choice) and buy (come along and buy some bargains).  Partial proceeds will be donated to VSO Bahaginan to fight against poverty. For inquiries to donate items or stall setup, contact Liza at 09275418455.

***

Finally, after years of trying to bring home that elusive blue crown, Miss Philippines Mega Young has won the Miss World 2013 crown after outpacing 126 other contestants from around the world at the glittering ceremony held at the Bali International Convention Centre in Indonesia on Saturday night, Sept. 28.

The “most beautiful woman in the world” was crowned by last year's winner Wenxia Yu from The Peoples Republic of China.

Boholano beauty pageant watchers are happy for Megan Young for winning the first Miss World crown for the Philippines. File

Young is the first-ever Filipino winner of the title since the Philippines' debut in the pageant in 1966.

In the final round, the top six were asked to explain why they deserved to win the Miss World crown, to which Young said: "I treasure a core value of humanity and that guides her into understanding people, why they act the way they do, how they're living their lives. And I will use these core values and understanding not only in helping others but to show other people how they can understand others, to help others. ... So that as one, together, we shall help society. Thank you!"

Philippines has made history only country to have won all major and minor beauty pageants. This proves that the Philippines is indeed the powerhouse of beauty in the world!

Filipina beauty queens who placed runners-up in Miss World are Evangeline Pascual who was Miss World 1973 1st runner-up, Ruffa Gutierrez was declared second runner-up in Miss World 1993, Gwendoline Ruais placed second to Ivian Sarcos of Venezuela in 2011 and Queneerich Rehman made it to the Top 15 in 2012.

Boholano beauty pageant watchers and lovers rejoiced over the major piece of pageant history, and squeals of euphoric ecstasy can still be heard all throughout amid political scandals that had rocked the nation.

Miss Bohol Sandugo 2008 1st runner-up Chandrina Elluiska Schreurs, who met Megan Young, said she had been confident of Young’s chances. She was glued to the TV set to watch the pageant and she burst into cheers when Young’s name was called. “She prepared herself very well that she deserved the crown... and that makes us all proud.”

“Megan's winning is a dream come true for me and to the rest of the past Miss Philippines who competed in Miss World. We were once there, represented our country and tried to bring home that elusive crown,” Anna Maris Igpit, who was the Philippines’ bet to the Miss World 2006, told VRS. “I was very emotional the moment she was declared a winner because finally a Filipina won that title for us. I'm just so proud of her, she didn't only prove that a Filipina is the most beautiful woman in the world, but she also made all Filipinos feel good and happy despite all the challenges we are going through as a country. Mabuhay ka Megan!”

Elvie Bongosia of PIA-Bohol told VRS that, “Megan's victory is a breather from all negative issues Philippines is now facing.”

It’s #ThrowbackSunday! Yours truly, Panglao Mayor Nila Montero and Maricor Igpit attended the Miss World 2006 in Warsaw, Poland.- LPU

1983 Miss Young Bohol 4^th runner-up Tessie Labunog-Sumampong of Loboc Riverwatch (The Floating Restaurant to the Stars) said that, “She deserves the crown....she's so gorgeous like me hehehe!”

Miss Bohol Sandugo 2012 Idy Caseñas Cagas said, “A Filipina has proven once more that our country is a home to most beautiful women in the world - beautiful women with grace, confidence, character and substance. It's a triumph not only for Megan but for the entire country. Her victory is like a ray of sun that shines in and gives us hope with what our country is going through right now. She is a woman with a clear purpose, an inspiration to everyone especially to every woman who dreams of becoming a beauty queen.”

“I've always been one of those people who pray that Megan would one day represent our country in an international pageant like Miss Universe or Miss World,” said fashion icon EJ Relampagos. “Megan winning our first Miss World crown is not only a proof that He answers our prayers in perfect time, it’s also a proof that if we believe in our dreams and we claim it, nothing is impossible!”

US-based Boholano socialite Mikey Gatal believed that “for bringing home the bacon, she might solve the pork barrel.”

Beauty pageant watcher Raul Phillip Gatal also shared that “Megan’s victory is not only a breath of fresh air from all the negative vibes and bad news that have swirled in the Philippines but also an affirmation that our country does have the most beautiful women.”

***

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

Ebone Cimafranca wins Miss Teen Tagbilaran 2012

Anyag 2012 candidates

FLASH REPORT: The Anyag sa Tubigon 2012 committee announced that Star Magic’s Matteo Guidicelli will grace the affair to serenade the lovely candidates on May 13. The event will be hosted by Mr. Cebu 2009 Kris Nimrod Cabigas and Bb. Pilipinas- World 2006 Anna Maris Igpit.

 

“Don't miss this opportunity to witness ABS-CBN's hottest talent in celebrating TANDA Festival with us,” says Raymond Delgado, erstwhile Tubigon’s Queen of All Media.

 

The Anyag crown is designed by a famous Cebuano jeweler Alpio Saban and it was donated by Manila Vice-Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno" Domagoso.

 

“May is not just a fiesta season; it's also a pageant season. Anyag still maintains its show mantra, quality, quality , quality...it's all about quality of showmanship and our theme is ‘contemporary beauty",” adds Raymond.

Tickets are Php 200.00 (ring side) and Php 100.00 (general admission).

For reservations, you may come and visit the Tubigon Tourism Culture Arts and Heritage Office or contact us at (038) 508-8496.

 

Anyag sa Tubigon 2011 Lori Geisha Cabrera will relinquish her crown to the new winner (12 candidates are vying for the crown) on May 13. Credit: Ryan Macalandag

***

That Mary Ebone Calimbayan Cimafranca is more than just a pretty face is amply proven by the Miss Teen Tagbilaran 2012 crown and Miss Photogenic, Best in Casual Wear, Best in Swimsuit and Best in Gown awards during the Miss Teen Tagbilaran just held recently in the City of Friendship.

 

Ebone Cimafranca

That Mary Ebone Calimbayan Cimafranca gives a straight answer that her mother is her role model.

 

“For me, the greatest woman would be my mother. Not only because she has supported me all throughout my life, but since before school she has taught me moral values which I can apply at home and in school,” says Ebone during the pageant’s Q and A portion.

 

“And I know that without my mother, I wouldn't be the strong and confident woman that I am today,” adds the 16-year-old lass from Poblacion 1 whom Bared has interviewed after winning the crown facilitated by Bohol’s fashion icon EJ Relampagos ( EJ’s boutique is located at 51 Pamaong Ext., Cogon District, Tagbilaran City, Cell No:  09498383173, Tel. No: 416-1184), Ebone’s stylist and manager.  

 

Her parents, Engr. Cresente and Maria Eva Cimafranca (nee Calimbayan), are very proud of their daughter’s achievement.

 

An Aries (March 31), Ebone stands 5’6”, weighs 113 lbs., measures 36-25-36, and wears small-size shirt and size-8.5 shoes. She finished high school last March at Holy Spirit School-Tagbilaran and she’s planning to take up broadcast journalism in Miriam College.

 

She has more to say.

 

How would you convince people here and abroad that it’s more fun in Bohol?
“I would use the medium of information that is prominent to us teenagers of today which is social media. I would showcase the true beauty of Bohol to everyone and I'll see to it that tourism can be promoted here in God's little paradise.”

 

Should transgender be allowed to compete in beauty contests for women?
“I don't have any problems with transgender people, because I consider them very loving, fun, and sensible. In my own opinion, if the person has passed the requirements to be a woman or to be a candidate, why not?”

 

If that’s the case, how would you prove that you are more female than transgender?
“I am more female than transgender since I possess true womanhood and femininity in myself. And I have this certain edge over men which is my wonderful capability to bear a life in my own body.”

 

What do you think does the world needs most right now?
“I think the world needs love and prayers. With all the wars and calamities happening right now, I believe there is still hope. And if there is love in the community and sincere prayers from our hearts, the world would be a more colorful one.”

 

What is your favorite quote?
"Everyone is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid." By Dr. Seuss

Miss Teen Tagbilaran 2012 Mary Ebone Calimbayan Cimafranca with her manager and stylist EJ Relampagos and supporters. Contributed Photo

 

How's your love life?
“I am not into any intimate relationship as of now since I think it’s a distraction for me towards my studies. And I think it’s still inappropriate for me to engage in such, since I'm still a minor.”

 

What do you find sexy in a man?
“Confidence. If a man has confidence in himself, his other aspects don't matter as long as he is proud of the man that he is. That, I find very sexy.”

 

And what turns you off?
“A man who has low self esteem in himself, a man who cannot even be proud of what and who he is.”

 

As Miss Teen Tagbilaran, what qualities of the Tagbilaranon youth would you highlight?
“The oneness of our Tagbilaranon youth and their love for our city.”

 

Young people today are liberated and adventurous, willing to try everything. What's your stand on pre-marital sex?
“I strongly believe that it is against our moral values as teenagers to engage in such intimate activity. Sex is a sacred union only for a certain married couple. However, as I have observed, teenagers of today have been lured by lust and such act has become very prominent.”

 

If you were somebody else, who would you like to be and why?
“I think it would be fun to be Kate Middleton... being young, educated and carefree. I want to know the feeling of how is it to be a princess. I'd love to relive that moment when I first watched a Cinderella movie.”

 

Describe yourself in three words.
“Sensible, God-fearing, and Loving.”

 

What is your greatest inspiration?
“The love and support that my family has given to me ever since. They have always been there for me and they have been the driving force of my life.”

 

What is the essence of being Miss Teen Tagbilaran?
“The essence of being Miss Teen Tagbilaran is not only about beauty, talent and personality, it is the responsibility bestowed on me to give hope and inspire my fellow teenagers that this is a wonderful world for us to nurture and love not hate and destroy.”

 

 

***

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

My own ‘recycled’ Christmas list

What are the hottest entertainment stories of 2011? Bared will retell the stories, events and people that shaped 2011. Send your feedback to leoudtohan@yahoo.com or text +639212446791.

***

As the year comes to a close (6 days to go!), we're thinking hard about what we'd like to happen in the gossip world come 2012. On our wish list are the celeb weddings we're dying to see (Anna Maris Igpit are you listening?) and interesting and lovely news we can't wait to read about.

I am asking Dear Santa to deliver my wish list for my favorite Bohol’s who’s who:

For Governor Edgar Chatto, Reps. Rene Relampagos, Erico Aumentado and Art Yap — A New Year (and more years) full of hope and goodwill. Same for Mayors Jono Jumamoy, Tom Gonzaga and Roberto Salinas.

For Mayor Dan Neri Lim — A peace pipe he should smoke with Gov. Edgar Chatto. Another peace pipe with Mayor Lim on one end and Taloto Barangay Captain Faro Cabalit on the other.

For Anna Maris Igpit and Glenn Soco — A marriage contract (hurry!!!).

For Lailette Boiser, Rich Asuncion and Tintin Ng — A hit teleserye (if not a movie) to show their effective "natural" acting.

For Inday Rufing and Inday Charity — More shows and colorful lovelife.

For Prony (largest python) — A new home with unconditional love. Same for Paloma/Marimar, we miss “her” acrobatic/kagwang performance!

For Farrah Faye Mian — Stay fit and beautiful!  Same for Bia Ursula Bautista, Fer Mary Baliquig, Ely Rose Apple Angcon, Felisse Marie Carvajal and Donna Cardino.

For Mayor Niño Rey Boniel — A marriage contract (indefinite)!    

For Baba Yap and Jane Censoria Cajes-Yap — A healthy baby due in February next year. Same for Adonis and Reina Thea Damalerio.

For Fr. Fro Lungay and Meo Mascariñas — Good health and good music.

For Mikey Gatal — A partner who will love him forever and ever, amen! Same for Edik Dolotina.

For Betty Veloso-Garcia — Good health and inner strength for the TBTK 2012!

For Ardy Batoy, Gloria Leodivica Araneta and Raul Gatal — Good health and more mega projects (in hosting)!

For Rose Soy —- Good health, more years and eternal beauty to continue her works as Bohol's Queen of Tourism and Santacruzan Queen.    

For Tessie Labunog-Sumampong, Gen Jamisola, Daday Uy-Fuertes, Nila Montero, Paz Trotin, Uly Dolojol, Barbara Ong, Jojo Baritua, Tessie Pagdato, Sylvia Fernandez-Maristela, Baby Collins, Dianne Uy, Gerry Egos and Musette Hontanosas. — Success in business and good health. Same for Pureza Chatto, Doc Joy Yap, Dr. Mary Grace Uy, Dr. Angelito Lechago, DonDon Suganob, Fancy Baluyot, Primitiva Ontong, LJ Lumayag, Coun. Kit Oppus, Vicky Wallace, Hans and Lani Schoof, Vice Mayor Jas Montes, Dr. Cristeta Tirol, Dr. Henya Tirol-Sotelo, Amalia Tirol, Liza Quirog, Fiel Araoarao-Gabin, Greenie Aumentado, Greenie Aumentado and provincial board members Freda Tirol and Roygie Jumamoy.

                                                         

For Nonito and Rachel Donaire Jr. —A healthy baby. The couple should buckle back down to work - pronto! - during this very conducive season.

For Glenn Mark Blasquez— Home sweet home. (Where are you now?) Same for Marcing Tsurumi, Jiji Apalisok and Rebecca Lusterio.

For Loboc Children’s Choir — More performances and exposures next year. Same for the Alicia Bamboo Ensemble, Loboc Youth Ambassador and HNU Diwanag Dance Troupe.

For Sam Penaso, Nene Lungay, Glenn Lumantao, Ric Ramasola, Marianito Jose Luspo, Napoleon Abueva, Aldrin Palaca and Jesat Cathy Duce — More years to showcase their talents. Same for Ryan Macalandag, Tadiyandi, Baji, Bohol visual artists and Arte Malaya. To quote Liza Macalandag, “That more of their activity be unleashed. No restraints, no hesitations, just limitless, purposive works of art.”

For Nemi Monton— An award (Hall of Fame) for his tireless dedication and spirited enthusiasm in discovering Boholano talents in sports. Nag-iisa ka lang Nemi!

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

For Zenaida Darunday, Raul Barbarona, Salvio Makinano and company —Good health and more years to continue their advocacies to protect the fragile environment of Bohol. Same for Rosalinda Paredes, Mightee Palo, Alvin Acuzar, Dorris Dinorog-Obena, Atty. Kins Aparece and Shem Quezon.

For Chito Visarra, Fred Araneta and Jerry Pabe —More “controversial” and "talkative" guests to spice up their programs. Same for BG Guingguing, Salva Diputado, Lito Responte and Ted Ayeng.

For Mayor Dan Lim, Atty. Victor dela Serna, Nestor Daarol, Felix Cempron, Ted Ayeng, Atoy Cosap and  Richard Bompat-—A silencer that will prevent them from flaunting on radio to throw feisty words this Christmas time. They can make "war" after the Holidays He He He

For EJ Relampagos— Success in business and colorful lovelife! Same for Maximiel, Charlo Arbasto, Baby Tagoctoc, Omie Auza and Tracy Remolador Torres.

For Rey Boom-Boom Bautista, AJ Banal, Caesar Amonsot and Jedara Docena — More wins!

For Eden Descallar — Wedding bells! Wedding bells! Same for Adam Jala, Eric Ngo and Mark Vincent Ramasola.

For Karla Tirol Magno and Tsino Lim — Also a marriage contract.

For Centerstage Band — More gigs and an album! Same for Brownbuds.

For Amir Sol— A round-trip ticket to a quiet place far from the maddening crowd. (The poor girl needs second chance to start a new life.)

For Sam Pingkian — A man (as much as possible sexy and seductive) who will love her forever and ever, amen! 

For Trisha Chatto — A colorful lovelife! Same for Janice Aurora Tirol, Carleen Yap and Loida Lagonoy.

For Bishop Leonardo Medroso — Good health and more years to continue teaching and witnessing the Word of God. Same for Pastors George Lungay, Nelson Rio III, Bobby Rio, Franco Trigo and Rey Rodriguez.

For Doc Homer Singco — A hot “partner” to love him dearly. Same for Atty. Brian Gaviola, Dave Maulas, Atty. Greg Delgado, Benjie Oliva and Dr. Renz Acedo.

For Gerry Lugod —- Inner peace and true love. Same for Mizken Tirol Andan, Reuben Gulle, Gabriel Medel, Raymund Delgado and Arvin Rubillos.

For Arizza Nancy Jule “Tukay” Tirol —-Inner strength and courage as she leads the Junior Chamber International (JCI)-Boholana Kisses.  Same for Ate Vi Yorong.

For Ar-Ar dela Serna — A smiling doll that will teach him to smile. Like Kristoff Ferniz, this model is handsome but he seems to be so full of himself, hardly smiling.

For Dobap — A marriage contract (indefinite)!

For Mila Lim — Good health and more years to light her Christmas village to make people happy during the Holidays.

For Jeroen Hellingman, Leah Tirol-Magno, Jerome Auza, Mike Ligalig, Roy Bayonas and Rene Econg— Good health and energy to the highest level to bring Boholanos around the world closer to beautiful Bohol.

For BZ, AL, RT and JT — A chastity belt! You know who you are! He He He

For NPC and RC and HM and JS — One more chance  (tan, tan, tan, tan!!!), one more chance (tan, tan, tan, tan!!!). Again, you know who you are He He He He

***

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

Miss U fever and other tidbits

Wake-uppers:
Hours after Philippine bet Shamcey Supsup was named as the 3rd runner-up at the Miss Universe 2011 pageant, jokes spread like wildfire online. Joke! Joke! Joke!

Aling Dionesia Pacquiao with Ms. Navarette

Joke 1:  (At the Miss Universe pageant back stage..)
Ms.CHINA: Congratulations Angola!
Ms.ANGOLA: Thanks China, you like my crown?
Ms.CHINA: Yes of course, go check what's written on it..
(Then Angola takes off her crown and read the little words on the back.)
Engraved on the crown: "MADE IN CHINA."

Joke 2: This alleged statement was aired via NBC News: “I have reservations with the results. If the only basis is the Q and A portion, after having been trimmed down to 5, Ms. Philippines deserved to win. What made her different from the rest is that she had no seconds to rethink of her answer as she had no interpreter to break the ice. The rest had their interpreters and having breaks on seconds to think about their answers. Hands down, Ms. Philippines answered straight to the point.”  But sorry to burst your bubble, the highly influential celebrity did not actually say that. Answering a query on the alleged statement, a moderator on Oprah's official website Oprah.com said Oprah has not issued "any comments of this nature." OWNModerator13 responded: "There is no truth to the statement. Ms. Winfrey has not made any comments of this nature. Thank you for asking."

Joke 3: According to a very reliable source the main reason why Ms. Philippines Shamcey Supsup's failure to win Miss Universe pageant was her inconclusive response to the Q n A part of the pageant. It had nothing to do with her religious belief but because she does not want to marry the son of the then Prime Minister of Pakistan Benazir Bhutto. Who on earth wants to be called Mrs. Shamcey Supsup-Bhutto. Mas ayaw din pakasalan ni Shamcey si Richard Poon kasi ang full name nya is Mrs. Shamcey Supsup-Poon. Tsaka ayaw din na si Hayden Kho makatuluyan kasi the full name is magiging Mrs. Shamcey Supsup-Kho.

Joke 4: Lea Salonga gave high scores to Miss Angola because their family names sound the same: Angola-Salonga.

Joke 5: The photoshopped photo of Aling Dionesia Pacquiao being crowned as Miss U winner (with Miss Universe 2010 Ximena Navarette) is widely circulated all over the internet. No, Mommy D didn’t win the Miss U!

***

Everyone is still in frenzy over the recently concluded Miss Universe 2011 pageant in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The country's bet — Miss Philippines Shamcey Supsup — was the third runner-up.

A Penelope Cruz look-alike, Shamcey ranked a place higher than Venus Raj, who was fourth runner-up in the 2010 pageant. Shamcey is the fourth Filipina declared third-runner-up in the Miss U: Lalaine Benette (1963), Chat Silayan (1980) and Desiree Verdadero (1984).

Leila Lopes of Angola, the first titleholder from her country, was crowned the 60th Miss Universe.
Aside from Shamcey, the others who are part of Lopes' entourage are: Miss Ukraine Olesya Stefanko (1st runner-up); Miss Brazil Priscila Machado (2nd runner-up); and Miss China Luo Zilin (4th runner-up).

Some Filipino fans have expressed disappointment over her non-title win, despite a good standing throughout the pageant.

According to Bohol’s seasoned host and personality guru Raul Gatal “the Philippines already lost five Miss Universe crowns because of the q&A courtesy of Chiqui Brosas (1975), Desiree Verdadero (1984) Miriam Quiambao (1999) Venus Raj (2010) and Shamcey Supsup (2011).”

“Shamcey's case was the biggest blow, she aced the question but lost,” said Raul.  However, Bb. Pilipinas-World 2006 Anna Maris Igpit said that “it's not all about the q&a , it's the overall performance.”

But I agree with Raul when he said that for Shamcey to have finished third runner-up was good enough. She made us proud!

“Shamcey did everything right but Angola outshone her because she had that sweetness, sincerity and showed a hint of vulnerability those endearing herself to the judges and to the crowd,” said Raul. “Becoming Miss Universe doesn’t mean you’re the most beautiful or the smartest...it's a matter of luck, timing and destiny. It was written in the stars that Miss Angola would become miss universe,” added Raul.

Farrah Faye Mian: ‘Even if I were in her place, I wouldn’t have been able to tell the whole world of my principles and beliefs in such a way that would make me give up my love.’

Anna Maris Igpit: ‘I honestly feel that Shamcey deserves a higher rank.’

Anyway, Bared asked Anna Maris and Miss Bohol Sandugo 2011 Farrah Faye Mian what they could say and how they would answer the same “tricky” question.

What is your reaction of the Miss U 2011?

Maris: This year's pageant is actually new for me because I was used to the opening number with the candidates dancing and the intro with their national costume, if not, recorded. But I love the pacing, very quick as usual. The dresses (opening) and swimsuits were gorgeous!

Farrah: I think Shamcey did a great job! I know that most people don't really appreciate nor recognize the fact that she was only the 3rd runner up but I think it’s one of the greatest feats she will ever earn for this country. Imagine, among all the countries in the world, our country's representative was chosen among the top5 and that wasnt an easy journey for her. I think all of us should just congratulate and be happy for her after all, she brought fame and glory to our beloved motherland.

Do you think Shamcey deserves 3rd runner-up or higher than 3rd runner-up?

Maris: I honestly feel that Shamcey deserves a higher rank. The least for her should be the 1st runner-up. Her over-all performance was really good. I was shocked when she was called as 3rd runner up because I was already expecting Angola and Shamcey as the last two standing.

Farrah: I think she should have won because she really showed what a Miss Universe should embody: that is strength, beauty, grace and most of all, conviction. Even if I were in her place, I wouldn’t have been able to tell the whole world of my principles and beliefs in such a way that would make me give up my love. She is a woman of substance, intelligence and beauty and I think she deserved the crown more than anyone else.

Was it the question that Shamcey lost to Angola/Ukraine?

Maris: I don’t think it was the q&a round that cost her the crown. In fact, she gave a very strong and straight to the point answer. I’m not really a fan of Shamcey's walk. But I think it worked for her. I believe it was the judge's call already.

Farrah: I don't think it was the question. In fact, I am still confused as to why she only got the 3rd spot when she was the only one who spoke for herself without the aid of an interpreter.

What will be your answer of the question "Would you change your religious beliefs for the one you love?"

Maris:  No, religion should not get in the way when it comes to love. If a guy truly loves me, he will embrace our differences and respect what I believe in. Because after all true love encompasses everything including religion, which I believe can’t be taken away from you in life and even after.

Farrah: I don't think I'll ever change my religious beliefs for the one I love because if he loves me back as much as I love him, then he'll understand. My beliefs are one of the things that made me who I am, one of the things that made him love me, and if I were to change it then I wouldn't be the same person. Most of all, God's love is greater than any earthly romance we find and I’m sure that if he really loves me, then we'll find a way to make it work without compromising both sides.

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Thanks Ima Castro

Miss Saigon and recording star Ima Castro with the sisters and working force of the Holy Spirit School-Tagbilaran...

...and visiting the tarsier (and other attractions) in her countryside tour.

At her concert last Tuesday night, the Miss Saigon and recording star Ima Castro gave her best that the audience, composed mostly of nuns, teachers, students and alumni of Holy Spirit School Tagbilaran, once again thrilled to the Ima Castro songs. Good show, Ima Castro!  Anyway, here is a letter from David Crankshaw, who’s responsible of bringing Ima to Bohol, says it all:

In between performing in the show, “In The Heights” in Makati and other shows around Manila, Ms. Ima Castro came to Bohol for a concert organized by Holy Spirit School of Tagbilaran.

Ima’s first visit to Bohol was on Sept. 12. Ima, Mollinder Cadiz (pianist), Ellawyn Cruz (road manager) and members of the organizing committee from school departed on a short sightseeing tour. Ima was amazed by the beauty of the Loboc River, Chocolate Hills and the amount and age of the churches in the area, and she fell in love with our own local celebrities, the tarsier.
On Sept. 13, Irma visited Holy Spirit School to watch the Intramurals dance performances then she treated the students and faculty to Whitney Houston’s “I’m every woman.”
“An evening of fine music” began with front acts of music and dance by grade and high school students and Ms Jennifer Ann Talisic (Jats) HSS Alumni. Ima came on stage around 8pm and performed various pop and musical songs from artists like Bob Dylan, Barbara Streisand and Sharon Cuneta. Followed by  her very own “Shine” and other OPM songs. During the short interval the audience was entertained by pianist, Mollinder Cadiz.
The second half of the included many songs from the shows including, “I Dreamed a Dream” (Les Miserables) “It Won’t Be Long Now” (In the Heights), “Easy as Life” ( Aida) and “I’d Give My Life for You” (Miss Saigon). HSS Alumni Jennifer Ann Talisic (Jats) then joined Ima on staged to sing (unrehearsed) “Tell him” by Barbara Streisand and Celine Dion.
The last song and the encore were “Listen” and “And I’m Telling You” from the musical “DreamGirls.” After a standing ovation Ima spent nearly an hour talking and having photo’s taken with the SSPS sisters from school and anyone else that requested.

We were all treated to an evening of powerful and emotional music, performed by an amazing, yet humble artist, Ms. Ima Castro.

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Bohol Hot Rods show held

A Hot Rod in urban slang is any vehicle that had been modified to improve its appearance or performance and often times both.

Bohol’s First Car and Motor Show was held last September 10 at Island City Mall Carpark. It was presented by Island City Mall, Auto Kraft Works, Shiang Ma Nou and Disco Records Center. Organized by CentralSense Production, it featured Bohol’s best cars including Mr. Hans Schoof’s Mercedes Benz SLS 2012, Poch Lamug’s Audi TT, BMW Z3’s, Mercedes Benz ML, Subaru WRX STI, Nissan 350z, fully set-up Ford F150, customized Honda cars and more.

Boholano motorcycle enthusiasts also graced the event by participating in the Slow Drag race, Burn-Out and Pimp my Bike competition, as judged by Blake Go, Philippine’s Drag Racing champion.

The visitors and on lookers had a great time with the competition photo ops with the models from Cebu and the featured cars during the event. Supportive car companies also united during the event, displaying their featured cars.  The whole time, the crowd was entertained by Bohol’s bands and Cebu’s DJ SEEK.

“The success of the event will hopefully inspire even more Boholanos to join and raise the level of car and motorcycle modification to a much higher level,” said Karla Tirol Magno, one of the organizers.

For Bohol’s Premier Car & Motorcycle Modification, please contact 09173040638 at Auto Kraft Works.

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Email leoudtohan@yahoo.com.