Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Issue 49: December 2, 2009


THE OTHER MANNY
Wowowee host Willie Revillame and Comedy King Dolphy formally endorse Manny Villar for President


By Bradford Adkins

If plans do not miscarry, Nationalist Party presidential candidate, Manuel ‘Manny’ Bamba Villar, Jr. will visit the Bay Area this December, courtesy of his cousin, the International Beauty Impressario Ferdinand Syquia Villar’s invitation to face his throngs of supporters personally, namely, the State Commissioner Ray Satorre, Club Royale’s Mrs. Jett Viray-Navarro, Dorie Paneza, among others.
The Next President of the Philippines. Nationalista Party's Presidential bet, Manny B. Villar will be turning 60 on December 13th and have plans of personally thanking his Bay-area based supporters this holiday season, if his busy schedule permits.

TRUE COLORS. Thousands showed their support to Nationalista Party Presidential Candidate, Manny Villar in Tondo, Manila a few days ago where Wowowee host, Willie Revillame and Comedy King, Dolphy also jointly appeared to formally show their true colors - Orange (for Manny Villar!).

After filing his Certificate of Candidacy, the ‘Mr. Sipag at Tiyaga’ proceeded to his proclamation rally in the very same place where he was born 60 years ago – Tondo, Manila a densely-populated area for the poor, the sick and the hungry. Wowowee host Willie Revillame and Comedy King, Dolphy, both idols of the masses, formally endorsed his candidacy.
He worked as a student at the University of the Philippines, the country’s top school for the intellects and future leaders.

SANTINO DIES. 8-year old Zaijian Jaranilla aka Santino of 'May Bukas Pa' will die in the series, if the script will not change, and will resurrect as Piolo Pascual's movie partner in February, 2010.

The self-made man, who found the magic formula to mix both business and politics, before serving as a Senator, worked at SGV, the number one accounting firm in the Philippines.
Long before CNN Hero Efren Penaflorida pushed his first Kariton Klasrum, Manny Villar has pushed housing initiatives, building 100,000 houses for the poor and middle-class families. He won innumerable business awards for excellence and his life story was featured in numerous international publications.

The Pork Chop Duo, 'Ang Huling Vaudaville' (Choppy, left, and Leonardo Obal) premiered at Ichiban Library last Sunday night.

With his education, skills, training, experience and strong background, he is The man, the Hero ng Masa, the deserving next President.
People of the Philippines, your choice is clear, please vote Manny Villar for President!

SEEN IN THE CITY
ABS-CBN Wins it all – well, almost at the Star Awards for TV
The Kapamilya Network, ABS-CBN just won the lions share of the awards at stake, including the Best TV Station, which it so deserve, at the recently concluded 23rd Star Awards for TV. With its international arm, The Filipino Channel broadcasting most of its top-rated shows here in the US, the award is noteworthy as it signifies the high level of quality of TV programming our immediate families are also watching here.

Among the winners, one of my personal favorites is the miracle boy, Santino, aka Zaijian Jaranilla of ‘May Bukas Pa’ for Best New Male TV Personality. His show won the highly-coveted Best Primetime TV Series, majority of the credit should go to him. Not discounting all the efforts put behind it, the show succeeded mainly because the boy’s portrayal of Santino succeeded. The boy is barely out of infancy and there are still traces of baby talk in his delivery of lines but boy, he can act and is being credited for single- handedly influencing this generation of kids to be behaved-to-the-max. To my mind, the best ‘May Bukas Pa’ episodes showing his display of acting range, were the ones featuring a fellow boy acting genius, Nash Aguas who then played an autistic boy kidnapped by his nanny, Bea Alonzo and sought by his father. The screens showing both kids acting in one single frame, portraying complicated roles are a gem of show, more especially a TV show. Nash, the more experienced one, with multiple awards to his credit, was expectedly competent, brilliant, employing ‘method acting’ styles but Santino is younger, fresher to the eyes, his acting so innocent, natural and uncorrupted, more endearing in his approach, and therefore shone brighter.

Balitang Amerika's Gel Santos-Relos, celebrating her birthday on Tuesday this week, left, poses with Dandin Ranillo of 'Green Card' after the show at Ichiban Library last Sunday.

Matt Tabora, leftmost, celebrated Thanksgiving Day with a lechon feast at their San Jose residence with family and friends.

TFC's Steve Angeles, right, attended the premiere presentation of the musical-comedy 'Green Card' at the Ichiban Libray last Sunday night, shown here with mom and 'Green Card' stand-out Louella Albornoz-Angeles.

This is a series spoiler, so do not read further if you don’t want to know. According to my online research, ‘May Bukas Pa’ is originally to-be-titled ‘Marcelino’ the name of the miraculous boy, based upon a very dated Spanish short story later turned into film. According to reliable sources, the creative think tanks of the show are sticking to its original ending – that is, Santino, the miraculous boy, hold your breaths now, will die in the end, a difficult choice he has to make, but his only chance to see his dead mother. All the parish priests will see him talking to Bro, who comes alive for the very first time in their eyes, except for one – Father Jose (Santino’s now adoptive father) who will die before the series ending as well. A new character will be introduced – that of Piolo Pascual’s, in time for the series to end, also in time for Santino’s movie with Piolo Pascual to be shown come February, 2010. (On a side note, the Ultimate Heartthrob, Piolo Pascual, is scheduled to appear again in the Bay Area this coming December 19th, 2009 for a show, venue to be announced.)

Another sentimental favorite Star Awards for TV winner is Coco Martin who won for his originally, a supporting role in ‘Tayong Dalawa’, unexpectedly stealing scenes and ultimately the Best Drama Actor award from his bigger and more popular co-stars, Gerald Anderson and Jake Cuenca. His role in the series is that of the unwanted and insignificant 3rd son. But even in the background scenes, he can be seen acting his best, that’s why his role was later explored and expanded and transformed into the biggest thorn in the family. The series’ ending belonged to him, with him being shown crying in jail, blind and still acting. Being under the radar all throughout and in the end winning it all, if that’s not best acting, I don’t know what it is.

TO-BE-SEEN IN THE CITY
Christian Bautista & Karylle to Perform at Cache Creek Casino Resort
I have just been informed by Ben Ramos of Ichiban Library last Sunday, that he already contracted, Christian Bautista & Karylle, to perform together on February 5 and 6th, 2010 at the Club 88 of the Cache Creek Casino Resort, based on the concept and direction of their manager Carlo Orosa.

Ichiban Library is on a roll as they presented last Sunday, in one night, 2 very successful premieres – that is the ‘Green Card’ comedy-musical starred in by the Ranillos (Suzette, Jojo, Dandin & Juni) and the ‘Pork Chop Duo’ (featuring Choppy ‘Romeo Vargas’ and Leonardo Obal). The star-studded night featured, among the audience, Balitang Amerika’s Gel Santos Relos, Adobo Nation’s Jaja Bolivar, Atty Lou Tancinco, Jackie Castillejo-Guingona, San Francisco Office of the Mayor’s Elsie McAteer, Multi-awarded Columnist Charito Benipayo, Atty Dennis E. Chua, Atty Aurora Vega-Buzon, Atty Jean Tinsay, among others.

PERSONAL NOTES
Advanced happy 60th birthday to presidential candidate Manny Villar (December 13th), who was born and raised in Moriones, Tondo, Manila where he held his proclamation rally last Monday.

Advanced happy birthday also to Ms. Gel Santos Relos (December 1st) of TFC’s Balitang Amerika, who is in my opinion, another beautiful case of ‘grace personified’, greeting us with a ready smile every time we meet her by chance.
Quote of the Week – "Everybody deserve a 2nd chance. " – by Anonymous.
This column also appears online at http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/
Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Issue 43: October 21, 2009

ASAP Sessionistas To Perform In San Jose Next Saturday, Nov 7th

Nina, Aiza Seguerra, MYMP, Richard Poon, Duncan Ramos & Sitti Headline San Jose Concert

Listen to them and watch them live, the ASAP Sessionistas, in San Jose this coming Saturday, November 7th at 7:30pm! The Sessionistas, of course, is composed of the "Soul Siren" and ‘Diamond-awardee’ NINA, Asia's acoustic sensation AIZA SEGUERRA, R' n 'B Master DUNCAN RAMOS, acoustic band MYMP, Michael Buble of the Philippines RICHARD POON, and Bossa Nova Queen SITTI NAVARRO.

ASAP Sessionistas, Diamond-awardee Nina, MYMP, Duncan Ramos, Richard Poon, Sitti Navarro and Aiza Seguerra will perform at the San Jose Civic Auditorium on Saturday, November 7 at 8:00 pm.

Noted Cosmetic Surgeon from Manila, Manny Calayan will also appear in the event.
The gathering not only combines the musical muscles of the industry, it’s also the big mix of different music genres — from R&B to acoustic, bossa nova to soul and ballads to standards.
Already show in Manila, the concert will be the biggest jamming affair of the year. It is an opportunity to watch them perform together in one big venue.

Launched in ASAP’09 early this year, the very concept of ASAP Sessionistas is to bring together an all-star lineup of the hottest and most in-demand performers in various bars and restaurants in one jamming segment.
For tickets, contact ERIC @ (408)438-0470, EDWINA (415)370-2802, FLOR (650)580-7653and DENNIS (650)307-2823.

SEEN IN THE CITY

2nd Annual Raiders Mabuhay Fiesta, A Success!

Shown are Pastor Andy Antenor and the leaders of Crossroads Christian Center on its 21st anniversay on September 27. Shown also are guests Pastor Rene Canlas from the Philippines and Bro Abraham Santos (Pastor Antenor's father-in-law).

It was a huge successful event - the 2nd Annual Raiders Mabuhay Fiesta held last Monday, October 18, at the Oakland Coliseum. The highlights of the event, include:
• The Raiders Mabuhay Fiesta is the Oakland Raider's way of honoring the Filipino American community and celebrating Filipino American History Month.
• October 18 is a historic day because the earliest documented proof of Filipino presence in the Continental United States was on October 18, 1587.
• The pre-game entertainment at Raiderville, hosted by Franco Finn and Jason Mateo, included performances by:

DJ CMC, DJ B-Strut and DJ Steez-O
Lil Jordan
Divo Dayer
Soulciety
Trackacademics
Bwan, Mr. Rey and DJ Delrokz
Jern-Eye and DJ Icewater
Steps, Styles & Spotlights
Desi Arnez
Mike Dash E
DJ Samala and Jeremy John
Special appearance by Ana "The Hurricane" Julaton
• National Anthem sung by: Philippine Madrigal Singers.
• Video messages on the jumbotron throughout the game by: Manny "The Pacman" Pacquiao, Lea Salonga and Kuh Ledesma.
• Special half-time show by: Likha Pilipino Folk Ensemble, Parangal Dance Company and Kawayan Folk Arts. This was the very first time Filipino folk dance was presented at a National Footbal League half-time show. This was also the first time several Filipino folk dance groups in the Bay Area collaborated together to perform a combined folk dance showcase -- all in the inspirit of bayanihan, collaboration and unity.
• Part of the proceeds will be donated to the Typhoon Ondoy Relief efforts (via ABS-CBN Foundation)
• Approximately 1000 people purchased the special Mabuhay Fiesta ticket package, which included a commemorative Radiers Manny Pacquiao rally towel.
Congratulations to the Al Perez and this event’s organizing committee!

TO-BE-SEEN IN THE CITY

Journey’s Arnel Pineda To Appear In Oakland Next Saturday, November 6th!

Spend a Filipino Heritage Night with The Journey’s Arnel Pineda, together with the Golden State Warriors vs the Clippers on Saturday, November 6th at 7:30pm at the Oracle Arena in Oakland, CA.

Happy Silver Anniversary. Jesie and Erlinda Tabilangan (nee Macaraeg) recently celebrated their Silver Wedding Anniversary on September 19th, 2009 at The Embassy Suites in Milpitas, CA. The event was attended by over 200 relatives and friends, some coming from (Winnipeg) Canada, New York, Nevada and different cities of California. The couple, originally from Guimba, Nueva Ecija lives in San Jose.

With your paid admission, you will get a commemorative Filipino Heritage T-shirt, a cultural entertainment throughout the event, a post-game Q&A with Journey’s Arnel Pineda.

A portion of every ticket sold will benefit the Arnel Pineda Foundation (last seen donating a $25,000 check in The Buzz last Sunday). For further info on his foundation, go to www.ArnelPinedaFoundation.org or email Will Mallari at w.mallari@gmail.com
For ticket questions, contact Kristin Cantlin at (510) 986-5403 / kscantlin@gs-warriors.com.

PERSONAL NOTES

Lucky winners had been picked to David Foster & Friends FREE Concert (featuring our very own Charice, American Idol Finalist, Michael Johns, among others) tickets, and they are the following:

Marguerite Ro
415 Cornell Avenue
Albany, CA 94706

Evelyn Deluna
246 Dennis Drive
Daly City, CA 94015

Peter Manalastas
1123 W. Calaveras Blvd.
Milpitas, CA 95035


Teodorico Johnson
451 2nd Street
Redwood City, CA 94059

To the winners, to claim your tickets, kindly call the Manila Mail office between 9am to 4pm at (650) 991-1822 or go to the ‘will call’ counter of HP Pavilion Ticket Office in San Jose on Friday, November 6th before the show starts at 7:00pm.

Quote of the Week – “Be inspired.” By noted San Jose-based High Fashion Photographer, Mr. Eddie Cotillon, his response to all other professionals he mentored in the past on the secrets of his success. To those running after that dream, he highly endorses for a serious motivation and reading, the book ‘The Tipping Point’ by Malcolm Gladwell.

This column also appears online at http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/
Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com
Hanley Chan is the most qualified candidate and the only Asian American to run for the Broadmoor police commission in a heavy Filipino American district. He has endorsements from Filipino leaders like Daly City vice mayor Mike Guingona, Alice Bulos, Fel Amistad, Ray Satorre, and Tony Salcedo he also has major endorsement from the State Controller John Chiang and State Board of Equalization Betty Yee. Hanley Chan was inducted to the San Mateo Filipino American Chamber of Commerce as the 3rd vice president this September and always been helping the Filipino Americans. Broadmoor has over 40% Filipino Americans that resides there and in history never been a Asian American representative.
Concert King Martin Nievera, and Mr. Pure Energy Gary Valenciano, are shown a Plaque of Appreciation from Starmedia and J.C. Camins, producer of AS 1 the first entertainment concert of two legendary recording artists in our country to Beauty Impresario Ferdie Villar, who represented Asian Journal Publications, one of the major sponsors of the concert. Others at the photo are: Estela Cachuela, Dory Paneza, Daly City Councilman David Canepa, Noel Nuguit and Tessie Labitoria.
Senator Leland Yee, is shown with the relatives of Senator Manny B. Villar, official candidate of the Nationalista Party for the forthcoming Presidential election in the Philippines in May 11, 2011. Shown at photo are from L-R: Alarico Tenorio, April Villar, Beauty Impresario Ferdie Villar, Senator Yee, Vanessa and Valerie Villar Divinagracia and Frederick Lacsamana.
Ray Satorre, the singing commissioner, was the star and grand finale of the entertainment progra for the Tribute and Fund Raising Dinner dinner and dance hosted by different Filipino organization in Northern California under the chairmanship of Jett Viray Navarro and Beauty Impresario Ferdie Villar, held at Roberto's Restaurant in Daly City. Shown with Satorre singing a broadway hit song, Mrs. R.P. Universe Lei Atis, and Mrs. R.P. International Marilen Bernardo dance the music.
MEDICAL LINK and Health Professional staff headed by Ray Satorre, President, Remy Azedillo, Vice President Elvira Angeles, Lelith Adriano, Leslie Licup and Milo Casuga. Photo taken recently at Senator Leland Yee’s Tribute and Fundraising, Roberto’s Restaurant, Saint Francis Square, Daly City, CA.
SOME OF THE BISAYA KAMI CLUB (BKC) members / participants in the Masquerade Ball held at Helen Panugaling’s residence in San Marco Village, Bay Point, CA, last Saturday, October 10, 2009.
Pastor Andy Antenor and his family happily received a certificate of recognition during the Crossroads Christian Center's 21st anniversary from Dr. Samuel Huddleston from the Assemblies of God office.
BRADLEY M. ROXAS, Chief Operations Officer Trans-Fast Remittance Inc. , he is one of the committee during Senator Leland Yee’s Tribute and Fundraising held recently at Roberto’s Restaurant Daly City.
Miriam Jurado, former movie actress of Premiere Production and Larry Santiago Productions now resides in Sacramento, was honored with a Surprise Birthday Party organized by her colleagues in the movie industries on the occasion of her 65th birthday party recently held at Gellert Park Social Hall in Daly City. Shown at photo seated infront: Vilma Valera, Pacita Arana, and Aura Aurea; standing from L-R: Sylvia Ford, Lyn Di Amore, Glenda Kennedy, Miss Jurado the honoree and Vivian Arcega.
Loida Viray David, a wellknown community and religious leader in San Francisco, host a dinner get together party with her relatives and friends held recently at her residence in San Francisco. Shown at photo seated infront from L-R: Gabinita Ewart, Inday Sunga, Agnes Morando, Merle Matignas and Carlos Hernandez. Standing at the back from L-R: Peter and Romana Guevarra, Mrs. David, the hostess, and Albert Co.

THE MASQUERADE BALL/BIRTHDAY BASH

THE MASQUERADE BALL/BIRTHDAY BASH were simultaneously held at Helen Panugaling’s residence in San Marco Village, Bay Point, CA, last Saturday, October 10, 2009. Photo shows the birthday celebrant, Helen, sitting 5th from left, with red horn, along with the wellwishers.

Wells Fargo Supports Filipino Children

San Francisco — Philippine International Aid and Wells Fargo are presenting “Holiday Double Exposure 8 ,” a fashion show to benefit disadvantaged Filipino youth in the San Francisco Bay Area and in the Philippines on Sunday, November 15 at the Westin St. Francis Hotel in San Francisco. Featured designers include Lulu Tan Gan, Dita Sandico Ong from the Philippines and Filipino American Tala Banatao. Philippine Airlines is providing the airfare and baggage allowance for the two designers while Hotel Adagio is providing the accommodation.

Newcomer Tala Banatao is a graduate of University of California, Berkeley and the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising. Her children’s clothing line, set to launch in Spring 2010, is called Tala Bee. Her design philosophy is influenced by the eclectic city of San Francisco and her Filipino heritage.

Designer Lulu Tan-Gan is known for her elegant and timeless knitwear for the confident, fashionable and active female market of today. She has developed her unique signature of simple, fluid and functional clothes unhampered by any personal constraints. In 2003, Tan-Gan was conferred the “Chavalier D’Arts et Lettres” by the French Ministry of Culture & Communication for her dedication in ensuring Philippine entries to the Concours International Des Jeunes Createurs de Mode.
Petite Dita Sandico Ong is a standout in any crowd wearing her three-dimensional sculpture wraps made from indigenous, organic materials such as cotton linen and banana fibers in a rainbow of vibrant hues. She is shaping the future of Philippine fashion by making innovative pieces with global appeal, promoting the use of native fabrics, and at the same time, helping the local weaving industry. She runs the Earthlike Foundation, an organization that aims to preserve culture through arts and crafts and Earthaven, a 27-hectare eco-village in San Mateo, Rizal.
Philippine International Aid (PIA) was established in 1986 in San Francisco, California by its founder, Mona Lisa Yuchengco. PIA provides assistance to disadvantaged and indigent Filipino youth in the areas of health and nutrition, shelter, rehabilitation, cultural immersion, gang prevention and education. Currently, there are about 1,000 children who are enrolled in various public schools in Metro Manila and who are beneficiaries of other programs funded by PIA in the San Francisco Bay Area and in the Philippines.

Teddy de Rivera, Executive Vice President at Wells Fargo is excited about this sponsorship. “Wells Fargo is proud to be a title sponsor for this event. We have worked with PIA a number of times and we are happy with the professionalism they display. We are glad that we are able to help the less fortunate in our society.” Wells Fargo recently donated $100,000 through the American Red Cross for the victims of typhoon Ondoy in the Philippines.

General admission is $80/person and includes entrance to the bazaar and auction, lunch and show. Doors will open at 10:00 a.m. for people to shop at the Christmas bazaar and silent auction. Lunch will be served at noon followed by the fashion show.

For more information, please contact (415) 401-7157 or email philaid@sbcglobal.net.

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

PBA HEROES AND LEGENDS

DALY CITYA Councilman David Canepa, the special guest during the Welcome Diner Party hosted by Ric and Gwen Diaz of Roberto’s Restaurant in honor of PBA Legends and Heroes held last Thursday at Robertos in Saint Francis Square Daly City CA. In photo are basketball stars of PBA Heroes and Legends with Daly City Councilman Canepa and Ric Diaz of Roberto’s.

PBA HEROES AND LEGENDS Bogs Adornado, Bong Hawkins and Jerry Codinera with Maui Leyson and Jeff Alipio at Roberto’s Restaurant.

FATV inductees

Officers and board of directors of FATV who have just been inducted.

Issue 35: August 26, 2009

'WOWOWEE' Goes To Lake
Tahoe This Labor Day Weekend

By Bradford Adkins

Despite the ongoing hottest issues surrounding its ever-controversial host, Willie Revillame, ‘Wowowee In Lake Tahoe’ on Sunday, September 6th, 2009, is a definite GO, according to the show’s Bay area-based Line Producer, Ms. Pia Pena, when we spoke to her over the phone very recently.

Young International Singing Sensation, Charice was also added in the already star-studded line up of performers.

The show’s venue is the famed Harrah and Harvey ’s Casino Outdoor Arena and will start at 5pm .

For tickets and more information, please contact PRIME MEDIA UNLIMITED at these numbers: 510/329-1406 408/550-5352 408/306-4281 and 408/250-6481.

SEEN IN THE CITY

The HitMakers- a Big Hit In The Bay Area
The Hitmakers, Rey Valera, Marco Sison, Hajji Alejandro, Rico Puno and Nonoy Zunia) had a very successful concert last weekend in the Bay Area. Next to follow are their shows in JERSEY CITY , NJ SATURDAY, AUG. 29, 2009, 7PM, followed by the one in PALA CASINO, PALA , CA SATURDAY, SEPT. 5, 2009, 7PM and their LOS ANGELES SHOW SATURDAY, SEPT. 19, 2009, 7PM at Heritage Forum, Anaheim , CA. For tickets, please call 702.873.6828 / 702.358.8647 / 323.551.6747 / 323.590.3512

The Hitmakers, (L-R) Rey Valera, Marco Sison, Hadji Alejandro, Rico Puno and Nonoy Zunia) now touring the major cities of the US for the nth time, had a very successful concert last weekend in the Bay Area.

The Hitmakers with Fr. Geoffrey Baraan. Beauty Impresario Ferdie Villar and Angela San Felipe during the Meet and Greet at St. Anne’s Church, Union City CA.

TO-BE-SEEN IN THE CITY

Charice In Success Magazine
The September, 2009 issue of the SUCCESS Magazine shows 15-time Grammy Winnder, David Foster, solo in its cover. The man is best remembered by Filipino-blooded ones as the one responsible for giving our Charice the giant exposures (next to super talk show talkers, Oprah and Ellen de Generes) in her young singing career. Flipping through the pages of the magazine though and prominently printed on the right side, specifically page 49 – is Charice’s photo with dedicated article about her, that occupied almost 90% of the page. In contrast, at the top (the remaining 10% of the space) of Charice’s page is a banner line up of photos shared by Whitney Houston, Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, Paul Anka and Merv Grifin.

Charice’s article is sub-titled ‘Voice Heard Round The World’ which quoted her saying, in part, that she considers David Foster as her mentor. “He has helped me with my singing and English, helping me with my voice, always teaching me…He is really nice.”

Among other things, the article also mentioned that David is producing an album with her, due out this year.

The article closed with a line that says like this – “If the past is any indication, the hit man (David Foster) will deliver – and a star will be born (our Charice).
Get a copy at your nearest newsstand before they ran out!

PERSONAL NOTES
Congratulations to owners, Mrs. Jolly Salonga-Rodriguez, her daughter Christine and granddaughter Krystelle for the very successful grand opening of their salon, located at 53-B Wright Brothers Ave , Livermore , CA 94551 , with the members of the Livermore Chamber of Commerce in attendance. This Filipino-owned beauty mecca has 2,300 square foot of peaceful sanctuary, as you enjoy a massage or a hair design, coloring, the latest in skin care treatment, etc. Check out their website at www.krystelleSpaSalon.com or call (925) 606-1142 to make a reservation.

Livermore's Krystelle Spa and Salon Owners, Jolly Salonga-Rodriguez, shown here with daughter Christine, and Jolly's 4-year old granddaugther, Krystelle (the inspiration of the business), cut the ceremonial grand opening ribbon Wednesday last week.

Mrs. Susan Pacifico's (2nd left) 71st birthday was celebrated (again!) at Eastridge Seniors' Center in San Jose last month with no less than the ever-cordial State Senator Leland Yee (2nd right) in attendance with Richard Lao (leftmost).

Quote of the Week – “I believed that women today have overcome obstacles such as passing the proverbial glass ceiling. I feel we have reached the level that men are at We are equal with men” – 2009 Miss Venezuela Stefania Hernandez’s answer to last Sunday’s Miss Universe final Q&A that secured her the crown, making her country the only one in the whole world that won the highly-coveted beauty title back-to-back.

Philippine Airlines' Mrs. Herminia Lavarias (center, in avocado green and glasses) celebrated her 65th birthday at the 5th floor of the Philippine Consulate Building in San Francisco last month, attended by her husband Rollie Lavarias (2nd right), City Councilman David J. Canepa (directly behind her), Miss RP-USA 2009 Rina Dimaranan (to Canepa's right) and Club Royale International's First Lady, Mrs. Jett Viray-Navarro (2nd left) with her sister Ms. Clara Viray (extreme left) and other family and friends.

Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com

BERNIE ZABALA, 2nd

BERNIE ZABALA, 2nd Vice President of LuzViMin Association of Northern California celebrated his birthday with a Merienda party held last Thursday, at Max Restaurant in South Francisco. The party hosted by Romy Madayag, an active member of the club. Shown at photo Seated infront from L-R: Gloria Nielsen, the honoree and Alice Bioley. Standing at the back: from L-R: Pepe Roxas, Romy Masayang, the host, Diva Tirol, Zeny Yolangco and Josie Heris.

Jisselle Kelsey


Jisselle Kelsey singing “May Bukas Pa” at “The Greatest Hitmakers” concert in Center for Performing Arts, San Jose, CA last August 22, 2009.

FR. GEOFFREY BARAAN and Beauty Impresario Ferdie Villar are shown with John & Imelda Kelsey and kids.

Katherine Jennifer "Karen" Feril

Katherine Jennifer "Karen" Feril graduated the RN Masters Degree from Stanford University last Saturday, Aug 22, 2009. She works as an RN at Stanford Hospital. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing at the University of the Philippines with "Cum Laude". She's married to Feliciano Feril who is also a Registered Nurse at the same hospital.

The Hitmakers at BPI and Gerry's Grill

PHOTO BY VINCE MONASTERIO
BPI EXPRESS REMITTANCE CORP. MILPITAS BRANCH. From left: Eden A. Johnson, Manager of BPI Union City, Zsazsa Asia, Customer Service Rep of BPI Milpitas, Mr. Rey Valera, Charina Grace Dela Cruz, Manager of BPI San Francisco, Ms. Rosel Custodio, Manager of BPI Milpitas, Mr. Rico J. Puno, Mr. Hajji Alejandro, Mr. Nonoy Zuniga and Mr. Marco Sison.

The Hitmakers with Fr. Geoffrey Baraan, John & Imelda Kelsey and kids at Gerry's Grill in Daly City.

12th anniversary of Buri Buri Filipino American Senior Association

SENATOR Leland Yee, was the guest of honor during the 12th anniversary of Buri Buri Filipino American Senior Association held recently at Buri Buri Social hall in Arroyo Drive. Shown at photo from L-R: Victor Barba of LuzViMin Club of Northern California, Lydia Humprey, Mrs. R.P.-World 2009, Senator Yee, Anita Dungca, Mrs. R.P. Universe 2009, Moring Macalinao, President of the club and Fe Hernandez Vice President.

Linda Dinh

VIETNAMESE beauty queen Linda Dinh, become the bride of Filipino movie producer Cris Tugado in an elegant morning wedding held last Saturday, August 22 at the historical Shakespeares Garden at Golden Gate Park. Followed with Evening lauriat dinner and dance held at Hongkong Flower Lodge in Milbrae. Shown at photo with the newlyweds from L-R: Daly City Councilman David Canepa, Beauty Impresario Ferdie Villar, Parela and Rufino Valencia executive movie producers of San Francisco bases of Golden Touch Movie Production.

DON ERNESTO PACIFICO

DON ERNESTO PACIFICO, president of Pan Asian Pacific Money Remittance and Travel Agency in San Jose, was honored with surprise picnic at the park organized by his wife Susan Pacifico on the occasion of Ernesto’s 80th birthday anniversary last Saturday, August 22 at Cupertino Country Park. Shown at photo from L-R: Mrs. Pacifico, the hostess, Myrna Sigue, Christine Pacifico, Emy Cui, Tessie Lavitoria, the celebrant and Tony Chui, co-owner of Jollibee International.

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Issue 33: August 12, 2009


Star Cinema’s And I Love You So
Opens in SFO This Friday

Bea Falls In Love with Sam & Derek; Pinoy Big Brother director
Laurenti Dyogi’s film comeback to screen in U.S. theaters this August


By Bradford Adkins


You’ve seen it on the hour by the hour on your TFC screens. Finally, on the occasion of TFC’s 15th and Star Cinema’s 16th anniversaries, ABS-CBN International’s Starry Starry Store brings to the U.S. the much awaited And I Love You So, a contemporary drama on love, loss and letting go.
Sam Milby and Bea Alonzo teams up on Star Cinema's "And I Love You So", opening this Friday in San Francisco.

Bea Alonzo and Derek Ramsay will ignite the screen when "And I Love You So" opens this Friday, August 14th, at the UA Stonestown Twin Theaters located at 501 Buckingham Way, San Francisco, CA 94132.

So many exciting things are going for this film. It is the comeback movie for popular director Laurenti Dyogi, the man behind the huge success of ABS-CBN’s reality shows Pinoy Big Brother and Pinoy Dream Academy. His last film was Now That I Have You in 2004, starring Bea Alonzo and then on-screen partner, John Lloyd Cruz. And I Love You So stars today’s hottest and most beautiful celebrities in the Philippine movie industry in their first team-up: Sam Milby, Bea Alonzo and Derek Ramsay.

It is wholesome young actress Alonzo who underwent intense transformation for And I Love You So. Her role is no longer that of a sweet teenager, but of a fully grown woman – sensual and comfortable with her body and sexuality. As this role calls for seductive attires and intimate scenes with her hunky male co-stars, Alonzo underwent a physical regimen that included bikram yoga sessions and a strict no-carb diet, losing 15 pounds and toning her body in the process.

Approximately 50,000 trooped to the Yerba Buena Gardens this weekend, for the 2-day 16th Pistahan Parade and Festival Celebrations.

Among the hundreds of Pistahan Parade participants are TFC's Balitang Amerika's Miss Henni Espinosa and Mr. Steve Angeles.

But the tougher challenge was how to channel the emotions of her character, Lara, a woman who after losing her husband of five months on her 24th birthday thought she could not go on living, much less fall in love again. Every time Lara loses a loved one, someone had been there to cushion the blow. When her mother died when she was 14, her father consoled her. When her father passed away six years later, her family was there. But when her husband died, no one could offer any consolation – not her siblings, in-laws or friends. She had lost the love of her life and she felt very much alone as she watches her business, her life, and her world collapse before her.

Miss Philippines' Bianca Manalo's height, beauty and changing looks everyday is attracting alot of attention in The Islands of the Bahamas, where the 2009 Miss Universe Pageant is being held. Finals will be telecast live August 23rd on NBC.

With her predicament, how would Oliver (Derek Ramsay) and Chris (Sam Milby) figure in her life? Will she finally move on?

“Summer movies are usually packed with action, thrills, suspense and animation, but the reality is it is a season that has given us the best love stories on cinema, too,” said Kerwin Du, ABS-CBN North America’s head of theatricals. “Call it counter-programming but And I Love You So fills that need for many moviegoers to think and feel. After all, many of us have had summer romances as part of our life experiences so it’s something people can relate to.”
The theatrical schedule of And I Love You So is as follows:

SAN FRANCISCO (August 14-20)
UA Stonestown Twin
501 Buckingham Way
San Francisco, CA 94132

SAN DIEGO (August 14-20)
UA Horton Plaza
475 Horton Plaza
San Diego, CA 92101

LAS VEGAS (August 14-20)
Regal Village Square Stadium
9400 W Sahara Ave.,
Las Vegas, NV 89058

LOS ANGELES-CERRITOS (August 21-27)
Cerritos Stadium Cinema
12761 Towne Center Drive
Cerritos, CA 90701

HONOLULU (August 28-September 3)
Regal Dole Cannery Stadium 18
735 Iwilei Road #B
Honolulu, HI 96817

SEATTLE (August 28-September 3)
Parkway Plaza Stadium
5910 South 180th Street
Tukwila, WA 98188

CHICAGO (September 11-17)
The Pickwick Theater 1
17 South Prospect Ave.,
Parkridge, IL 60068

For more information, please visit www.abs-cbnglobalmovies.com or call 1.800.227.9676.

SEEN IN THE CITY

‘Summer Night Of Music With Divo Bayer’ Wows Bay Area
A multitude of concerts and shows graced the different venues in the Bay Area and most of them either banked on the star performer’s popularity or ephemeral hype but the tal;ent and the showmanship delivered during the actual show were either mediocre or just pure entertainment.
Last Saturday evening at the South San Francisco auditorium, “Summer Night of Music with Divo Bayer” may not have filled the rafters but the audience who have fortunately opted to take the opportunity to watch this show did themselves a big favor of enjoying and experiencing a tour d’ force perfomance we rarely experience on live performances. Divo Bayer proved himself to be deserving of the tag ‘Emperor of Soul’ or more so as ‘Celebrity Entertainer of the Year’ for his showmanship can command multiple standing ovation. Bayer can belt out any genre of music from pop,music to classical opera music. The audience were soothed by her rendition of his early hits like ‘NgayongNandito Ka, and his Star Quest medley. But what really brought the audience to hold-your breath syndrome was when he sang ‘Sometime, Somewhere,’ an original composition of maestro-composer Ryan Cayabyab and his heartstopping version was more than enough to save your money for the tickets to his show. His range is far from a lot of actors-singers or pretending to be singers who after a few songs you will urge yourself to leave the venue for they really don’t know anything about music.

Even the guest singers like Sage, Trina Diomaranan, AriannaTolentino, Arnel Rosanes were just real troopers themselves who had their share of musical greatness causing the audience to be proud of their Filipino lineage. But it was the all-male chorus of Overseas Foreign Workers(OFW) from Saudi Arabia known as the Prime Note Ensemble that roused the audience during the opening when they sang “Star Spangled Banner and our Philippine National Time and then followed by their hair-raising version of “Circle of Life” that preconditioned the audience to a night of absolute vocal showdown. When Divo Bayer joined the Prime Note Ensemble in singing Puccini’s “NessunDorma” the audience were just like being treated to a moment of musical greatness that nobody got tired or even thought of their call of nature excuse for they did not want to miss a single second to this great show.

Kudos to the stage director Noel Nuguit and the producer Teresa Labitoria for making this visceral and musical show a reality. It is seldom that the Bay Area audience get a chance to get this kind of sublime state of musical journey and it you will say after the show that you more that your money’s worth.

Celebrating his birthday this coming August 28th, Daly City Coulcilman David J. Canepa, right, is shown here personally congratulating WCOPA Winning Singer and Performer, Divo Bayer for his successful concert held last Saturday in South San Francisco.

Seen in the audience were Councilman of Daly City Dave Canepa, State Commissioner Ray Satorre, Businesswoman and Fashionable Lady of the Year Susan Pacifico, and a lot more of prominent men and women of the community.

TO-BE-SEEN IN THE CITY

Miss Philippines Shines In Miss Universe 2009

It has been 10 long years since a Philippine candidate to the Miss Universe Pageant figured prominently (thanks to 199’s 1st runner-up, Miriam Quiambao!). In the Bahamas right now is our bet, Bianca Manalo who is one of the early favorites (again!) to bring home the crown, if postings and unofficial rankings online are to be believed.

They paraded in National Costumes last Monday night. Preliminary judging takes place on Sunday.

There are talks online that the judges will not only pick Top 15 from the preliminary round - they will also allow an extra beauty into the semi-finals voted on by the Bahamas people through newspaper and SMS voting.

The semi-finalists will not be announced until Sunday, August 23, when Miss Universe 2009 will be crowned.

PERSONAL NOTES

Advanced Happy Birthday to Daly City’s youngest Councilman, David J. Canepa. My personal good friend first before he became a Councilman, David still doesn’t fail to attend every major Filipino event, to continuously express his deep appreciation to the community who supported him all the way to his victory during the last history-making local elections. Long live David!


Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com

“Trucks and Bucks” With $250,000 in Cash and Prizes

Trucks and Bucks
Thunder Valley Casino is giving away truckloads of cash and a top prize of your choice of a Toyota Tundra, a Chevy Silverado or a Dodge Ram at every drawing. There are 10 big winners every Friday and Saturday night at 8 beginning August 7th! Earn entries daily with your free Thunder Club Card! It’s the $250,000 Trucks and Bucks Giveaway, going on now exclusively at Thunder Valley Casino!

Koi Palace
Koi Palace has tailored a delicious new menu selection for all of our valued guests. The internationally renowned menu, is sure to serve up exotic flavors that will tempt any appetite. Award winning Chef Wai, is sure to amaze your palette with his sinful creations. Join us at Koi Palace and celebrate these fancy feasts!

About Thunder Valley Casino
Thunder Valley Casino is a Northern California’s premier entertainment destination. Thunder Valley Casino resort offers round the clock casino gaming with the full range of gaming excitement; you can try your luck at any of our 100 table games, or give one of our 2,700 slot & video poker machines a chance. In addition to exquisite gaming, Thunder Valley Casino offers four fabulous dining opportunities to choose from, such as Koi Palace, Feast Buffet, Austins Steakhouse, and Thunder CafĂ©, plus Food Court. The enticing dishes you’ll discover at Thunder Valley Casino are always five-star quality. The restaurants offer unique and imaginative cuisine in settings that are equally appealing. More information can be found at www.thundervalleycasino.com, or call us at 1-877-867-7111.

Around the Community

FRANCISCO (Kit) Santana, owner of TRIBO, formally open and inaugurated the first branch of TRIBO Restaurant in Union City, last Friday, August 7, 2009 with Union City Mayor Mark Green and Daly City Councilman David Canepa, was the special guests during the affair. Shown at photo from L-R: Nelly Cojuangco, Councilman Canepa, Kit Santana, the host, Mayor Green, Trina Dimaranan, Miss RP-USA 2009 and Tess Gregorio, Singer for All Seasons.

HAPPY SANTANA, proprietress of TRIBO Restaurant in Union City was formally blessed and inaugurated last Friday, August 7, 2009. Shown at photo are: Gertrudes Guerrero, Beauty Impresario Ferdie Villar, Miss RP-USA Trina Dimaranan, Mrs. Santiago, Union City Mayor Mark Green, Kit Santana, proprietor of TRIBO and Elaine Smith.

BEAUTY IMPRESARIO Ferdie Villar, was special guests of Eric and Emma Calayan Executive Producers of the recent “Chokwang Live in Concert” held at Bob Hope Theatre in Stockton recently. Shown at photo with Beauty Impresario Ferdie Villar, 2nd from left , Yeng Constantino, Pokwang and Chokoleit.

The BKC's key officers and members posing with the celebrities during the recent “Chokwang Show” in Stockton, CA. Standing from left are Eva Sahulga, Francine Naas, Mel Morales, Malou Panugaling, Precy Fiscus, Helen Panugaling, Nilda Morales, Norma Ybanes and Nina Panugaling. Sitting from left are Pokwang, Yeng Constantino and Chokoleit. These officers and members will be the key players in the Club's upcoming 1st LUAU Fundraiser Event on the 22nd of August '09. For more details, please contact Dante @ ( 916 ) 531-3487 or thru email, dpanugaling123@yahoo.com.

HERMIE REVILLA LAVARIAS, deputy sales manager of the Philippine Airlines office in San Francisco, celebrated her 65th birthday with a Luncheon Party held at the Philippine Consulate General Social Hall at 477 Sutter Street in San Francisco recently. Shown at photo from L-R: Genaro (Bong) Velasquez, PAL County Manager, Del Mirano, Sales District Manager of PAL, Daly City Councilman Dave Canepa, presenting State of California Senate Recognition Certificate to Mrs. Lavarias for her support and help for the Fil-Am Community in the Bay Area and Rolly Lavarias, the celebrant’s husband.