Volume 18 • No. 14 • July 16 - 31, 2022 Publication Mailing Account #41721512
Sofia Andres
A “new” era begins
Editor’s note: Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took his oath of office as the 17th president of the Philippines on June 30, 2022. While his supporters rejoice, many others fear the brutal history of his father’s administration will be sanitized and possibly repeated. Jon Malek continues his look into the Marcos legacy and its impact on the nation’s political dynasties in the conclusion of his two-part series.
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Marcos: The Legacy, Part 2 by Jon G. Malek
In my last column, I ended with the idea that the election of “Bongbong” Marcos was the result of the failed EDSA revolution. EDSA, as I wrote, failed to follow through on its potential by restoring the old political oligarchy after removing Marcos, Sr. This oligarchy had ties to the Spanish colonial period See NEW ERA p4
President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is sworn in as the 17th president of the Philippines on June 30, 2022. In his speech, Marcos vowed to bring unity to the nation. Photo by Rey Baniquet/ Presidential Photo
8 Bea Alonzo
Alden Richards
After being postponed for almost two and a half years, the Pinoy Pop Star Grand Final is August 26. Buy your tickets online at Ticketmaster or in person at the casino Gift Store. Early Bird Price is $20+GST = $21 + TM fee until July 22; Regular ticket price is $25+GST = $26.25 + TM fee – after July 22. Old tickets will be accommodated. For details see p15.
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PILIPINO EXPRESS
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University of Santo Tomas Alumni Association of MB Inc. Is now accepting applications for its
2022 USTAAM SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS
• Applicants must be of Filipino descent • Have attended grades 11 & 12 in Manitoba • Have a minimum Grade 12 average of 85% • Accepted and entering first year in any post-secondary schools in Manitoba in September 2022 • Have community and volunteer work
2022 USTAAM BURSARY AWARDS
• Available to members of the USTAAM who are currently upgrading their profession
DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 30, 2022
For other requirements and copies of application forms please visit the UST Alumni Association of Manitoba Facebook page: www.facebook.com/groups/USTAAMI/ For inquiries email ustaami@gmail.com
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NEW ERA... From page 1 as hacienda owners, the wealthy families with land who were able to prosper under Spanish and American colonialism. Despite the admiration that Benigno and Cory Aquino have garnered as defenders of Philippine democracy, they were part of that old guard, the entrenched political elite, which Marcos, Sr., had vowed to overthrow. In reference to the failure of EDSA, I mentioned Frantz Fanon, who wrote extensively on revolution in the colonial world in the Wretched of the Earth, first published in French in 1961 (and English in 1963). Fanon opens his first chapter, “On Violence,” with the claim that decolonization, a form of revolution, “is always a violent event.” A revolution, further, is the “substitution” of one form of governance for another, but “The substitution is unconditional, absolutely, total, and seamless … proof of success lies in a social fabric that has been changed inside out. This change is extraordinarily important because it is desired, clambered for, and demanded.” (Frantz Fanon, The Wretched of the Earth, p.1). The violence inherent in revolution is true literally, such as armed revolutions or civil war, as well as figuratively, as in the destruction of colonial political institutions, laws, etc. The violence, both literal and symbolic, comes from a deep consciousness of the people – that is, it is not controlled by a political or economic elite, but rather driven by the mass population of the repressed. Indeed, in many cases it is in the interests of the elite to preserve the existing structures that gave them their power. Looking back at the Philippines in the 1880s and 1890s, we can see this juxtaposition. Many of the ilustrado who came from wealthy land-owning families tended towards reformation of the administrative system through inclusion in political affairs, while the more radical Katipunan, driven by the Philippine peasantry, opted for armed resistance and revolution. In the end, for a revolution to succeed, not only must the old masters themselves be thrown out, but the houses they built destroyed. That is, the institutions that gave them their power – political, judicial, economic, and social – must be destroyed, and entirely new ones created by the liberated people. Focusing on the EDSA
PILIPINO EXPRESS revolution, this did not happen. Marcos, Sr., and his cronies were removed from power, but the same systems they occupied were merely taken over by the old oligarchy, in a sense bringing about a restoration, not revolution. People’s power was certainly present, and change was “desired, clambered for, and demanded” by those who marched on EDSA. But, it has been argued, the political opponents of Marcos, Sr., who also happened to belong to the old oligarchy, seized that revolutionary power and diverted it from true fulfillment. While Cory Aquino was popular, her election saw the restoration of the pre-Marcos political system. The potential to redistribute power and wealth, such as new political leaders and land reforms, was thus absorbed into the status quo of post-EDSA Philippines. This post-EDSA context is important in understanding the path of Bongbong Marcos to Malacañang Palace. It doesn’t explain the whole story, of course, but today there is a palpable sense of frustration in the Philippines. The country is wracked by social, economic, and political problems, and promises to fix them carry significant political weight. Just as Rodrigo Duterte came to power with promises to make the country safer, Marcos, Jr., has made promises to build up the Philippines’ infrastructure, create more jobs, and lower the cost of living. Bongbong has also embraced the memory of his father, something that supporters have attempted to rehabilitate and even rewrite. The elephant in the room for many Marcos, Sr., sympathizers are the rampant human rights abuses that took place during Martial Law. If these abuses are addressed (often, they are ignored or even denied, despite the documented evidence), it is often argued that they were necessary to pacify the crime in the Philippines and that, besides, Marcos brought about a “Golden Age” for the country. This line of argument is quite distressing for any democratic society, which is naturally based upon the rule of law, and in which freedom of expression and political protest are supposed to be enshrined and protected. A democratically elected government is there to secure and protect the interests of the people, not the government itself. Martial Law was declared in response to the threat being presented by the NPA, the armed wing of the Communist Party
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JULY 16 - 31, 2022
Philippine President Ferdinand E. Marcos, Sr. is sworn by Chief Justice Ramon Aquino in the Ceremonial Hall of Malacañang Palace. The inauguration on February 25, 1986, marked the start of the 4th term (and final term) of Ferdinand Marcos as president This resulted in the peaceful 1986 EDSA Revolution, which caused Marcos going into exile in Hawaii and Corazon Aquino becoming the 11th president of the Philippines on the same day. The young Bongbong Marcos, Jr. is 2nd from right. Photo from the Armed Forces of the Philippines. of the Philippines, which had increased their activity during the presidency of Marcos before 1972. Yet, the majority of those who were illegally kidnapped without charge, who were tortured, and those who simply “disappeared,” were not members of the NPA. Those who were targeted criticized Marcos on several fronts, including students, journalists, and community leaders. And even if those targeted were guilty, or properly suspected guilty of crimes, there were appropriate legal avenues to follow. Indeed, many scholars of the period disagree with the claim that the Philippine Constitution did not provide Marcos with the necessary legal tools and that Martial Law was necessary. The claim about the economic boom brought about by Marcos, Sr., has been disproven but still often made. The details are complicated, and it is necessary to peel back multiple layers to see what was really happening with the Philippine economy; at first glance, economic signs seem to suggest a general growth. However, whatever growth there was went into the hands of an already entrenched economic elite, including those allies of Marcos, whose support he needed to prop up his regime. According to Luis H. Francia, the end of the 1970s saw a 20 per cent decline in average monthly wages, a 30 per cent drop in agricultural production, and a 40 per cent decline in commerce. While 50 per cent of the population were living below the poverty line, prices for essential commodities tripled. There is no coincidence that the Filipino diaspora began in earnest during the 1970s and 1980s during Martial Law. Many of those who founded Filipino
ANNE CAPRICE B. CLAROS ETHEL CLEMENTE FERNANDEZ BRO. GERRY GAMUROT NORMAN ACERON GARCIA LUCILLE NOLASCO GARRIDO MICHELE MAJUL-IBARRA PERLA JAVATE JUDIANNE JAYME PASTOR JUNIE JOSUE NOEL LAPUZ JON MALEK MALAYA MARCELINO ALONA MERCADO CST. REY OLAZO PAQUITO REY PACHECO DR. REY PAGTAKHAN CHERYL DIZON REYNANTE TIM ST. VINCENT MICHAEL SCOTT
National Historical Commission Marker in the People Power Monument. Will the President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. continue the tradition to observe February 25th each year as the EDSA People Power Revolution Anniversary, a special non-working day in the Philippines? communities abroad – including in Winnipeg – left the Philippines because of the declining economic and political situation. Of note, too, is that Arsenio Balisacan, the incoming secretary of the National Economic and Development Authority under Bongbong Marcos, argued against the myth of the Marcos Golden Age in the book Philippine Economy: Development, Policies, and Challenges, which he coauthored. I dwell on these points for a reason, and it is the originating question: How could a democratic nation, with a history of political and democratic revolution, elect
REGINA RAMOS URBANO RON URBANO KATHRYN WEBER Youth Contributors Aksyon Ng Ating Kabataan (ANAK) Philippine Correspondents: FRANCESCO BRITANICO CRISTY FERMIN JON JOAQUIN AMBETH R. OCAMPO SALES & ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT: 204-956-7845 E-Mail: info@pilipino-express.com Sales & Marketing Team: ISAGANI BARTOLOME RODGE LOPEZ NEIL SOLIVEN
the son of a dictator with such a record? It is easy to say that supporters of the Marcos family are uninformed or misguided, but this dismissiveness misses the point, one which I think is important. Many of the more lucid supporters of Bongbong Marcos are, quite frankly, frustrated, and angry at the state of the Philippines in terms of crime, political corruption, and economic prospects. Misguided or not, there is a belief that Marcos, Jr., is the answer to these problems. Therein lies the split. Certain segments of the Philippine electorate see the solution in the long term through See NEW ERA p5
The Pilipino Express is a Winnipeg based news-magazine published twice a month. Its contents do not necessarily reflect the publisher’s opinion. The Pilipino Express and Pilipino Sports Express are registered names. Reproduction of any content and/or ad design published in the Pilipino Express is not permitted without the publisher’s written consent. Materials submitted are subject to editorial discretion and the publication accepts no responsibility for the return or safety of unsolicited artwork, photos, or manuscripts. All rights reserved. Annual subscription rate within Canada: $65.00. For advertising inquiries, call 204-956-7845, or e-mail: E-mail: info@pilipino-express.com.
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Express Entry processing for Overseas Skilled Workers restored On July 6, 2022, Canada’s immigration minister, Sean Fraser, announced that Express Entry has resumed all programs including those for overseas applicants. The change means that skilled worker applicants, whose processing was suspended since 2020, will now be invited to apply for permanent residence. In a written statement to CIC News, Minister Fraser said, “Today I am pleased to announce that Express Entry draws have officially resumed, and applications will be processed at our six-month processing standard. I want to thank the candidates from around the world for their patience, as we worked to reduce the backlog before resuming Express Entry draws. I look forward to welcoming skilled workers who are essential in addressing Canada’s labour shortages.” The Minister’s announcement is welcome and Express Entry is starting to get back to regular
processing. Express Entry is comprised of applicants from three differing processing streams: the Canada Experience Class (CEC) who have provided the bulk of invitees since 2020; the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) and the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP). With the resumption of regular processing for skilled worker applicants from overseas it is timely for potential applicants and supportive family and friends in Canada to consider the requirements for the FSWP. The FSWP is the most popular pathway for skilled workers overseas who wish to immigrate to Canada. The program invites skilled workers with the required work experience, education, proven language ability in English or French, and other human capital factors, to become economically established in Canada. The FSWP, which was first introduced in 1967 as a way of bringing in skilled workers,
is now the cornerstone of the country’s requirement strategy for overseas skilled worker applicants. The importance of the FSWP is not to be minimized because it represents the best way for overseas applicants, who have not studied or worked in Canada, to apply for permanent residence. Candidates must meet the following criteria: a minimum of one-year skilled work experience in the last ten years in a skilled occupation at 0, A or B skill level; a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark of 7 on their English or French language test in reading, writing, listening and speaking; at least one Canadian educational credential (certificate, diploma or degree) or foreign credential and Education Credential Assessment (ECA) report; get at least 67 out of 100 points on the FSWP grid, which includes points for age, education, work experience, arranged employment, language
ability, and adaptability. They must also meet the settlement funds requirement in order to support themselves upon arrival, based on family size and LowIncome Cut-Off numbers. The point’s grid must be met to qualify under the FSWP. Potential candidates should complete a self-assessment to determine if they meet basic eligibility before starting the process with an online Expression of Interest (EOI) submission. Once the profile has been submitted, it will generate a numeric score based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). A CRS score is intended as an objective way of ranking candidates against each other. The CRS helps immigration authorities assess the potential for applicants to become economically established in Canada. Candidates who receive higher scores are more likely to receive an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
Once an ITA is received, the candidate has 60 days to submit their application. The Express Entry route is great if you are qualified to apply, are issued an invitation to apply, and submit the application within the time frames provided. Unless there are admissibility issue on medical, criminal or security grounds, there is a good chance that you can expect a permanent resident visa with six months of the submission of the completed application. Good luck on your Express Entry submissions. Michael Scott is a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC, R525678) who has 30 years of experience with Immigration Canada and the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program. He currently works as a licensed consultant with Immigration Connexion International Ltd. Contact him at 204-691-1166 or 204-2270292. E-mail: mscott.ici@gmail. com.
NEW ERA... From page 4 social programs that address the root of the problems. In terms of the so-called drug war, the solution would be to target issues such as mental health or poor social and economic prospects. Then there are those who want more direct and observable methods, such as arresting (or murdering) drug pushers, those who sell drugs on the streets. This approach tends to target the surface manifestations of the root problems faced in Philippine society. As a historian, it is my duty to state that there is a great degree of revisionism ongoing in the Philippines, and the forces of this revisionism are not relying on the values of evidence and the veracity of sources. This is most recently evidenced by the deplorable treatment of historian Ambeth Ocampo for defending the study of history as being much more than mere gossip. This historical revisionism and selective social memory are topics for another column, but it is important to recognize that there is an underlying sense of dissent towards the status quo of Philippine politics. In the last
Kaka Paquito Rey Pacheco was the president of the Rural Broadcasters of the Philippines during Marcos Sr.’s administration. Kaka visited then Senator Bongbong Marcos Jr during one of his Philippine trips in the early 2000s. Kaka was the news director of CKJS Good Morning Philippines and also a Pilipino Express columnist. decade, political dialogue has become toxic, full of vitriol and ad hominem attacks, but devoid of meaningful political discussion. This is not only true of the
Philippines, but of many political societies, and it holds back the potential of democracy. Both sides need to understand the other especially where they disagree.
Both sides need to embrace, too, the search for truth and the role of evidence in that search. Jon Malek received his PhD from Western University and
currently teaches history at the University of Manitoba. He is working on a book manuscript on the history of the Winnipeg Filipino community.
OUR COMMUNITY
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PILIPINO EXPRESS
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Caring for our Environment – Manitoba holds four events by Mhaolene Leana B. Palevino Caring for our Environment – Manitoba (CEM) Inc., a registered non-profit organization, celebrated its fifth anniversary alongside the observance of World Environment Day 2022 on June 4, at Assiniboine Park. CEM held fun-filled and meaningful events aimed at promoting environmental awareness and inculcating sustainability values in members of the community. Highlights of the celebration included a flag raising ceremony, a park litter cleanup, and the launching of CEM’s website. In the early morning of June 4, CEM participated in the annual Flag Raising Ceremony of the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba, Inc. This event was held at the Philippine Canadian Centre in Manitoba (PCCM) as part of the launching of the monthlong Filipino Heritage Month celebration in Canada that takes place every June. CEM president, Ramon Faustino M. Sales, Information and Communication Committee Head, Dario Cidro, and External Relations Committee Head, Allan Pamplona and family, attended the ceremony. The celebration then kicked off with a Litter Clean-up, the launching of CEM website and a get-together with food and music to celebrate the fifth anniversary of CEM. Following this memorable celebration, CEM also took part in the two-day Manitoba Filipino Festival held last June 18-19. Litter clean-up In partnership with the Assiniboine Park Conservancy, Canadian Beverage Container Recycling Association (CBCRA) – Recycle Everywhere, and Knights of Columbus, CEM marked its World Environment Day with a Litter Clean-up, which included 47 volunteers, consisting of small children, youth, other volunteers,
and members of the organization. The staff of the Assiniboine Park Conservancy warmly welcomed the group and provided them with litter pickers. Clean-up kits and clear plastic bags for recyclables, which were donated by the CBCRA-Recycle Everywhere, along with promotional items from Multi-Material Stewardship Manitoba, were also distributed by CEM. The participants were accompanied by the presence of a lot of Canadian geese around the park. It was a good sign that there was not much litter around. CEM’s fifth anniversary After the clean-up, members and volunteers headed out to celebrate the anniversary of CEM through a short program with good food and music. The CEM president graced everyone with his inspiring introduction. He shared how five years ago, six like-minded friends with a passion for environmental conservation, formed the organization. Now, the group has grown to over thirty regular members and with an expanding network of volunteer and friends. In line with World Environment Day, he also talked about our role in environmental conservation and challenged everyone to join the global call for effective transformative changes in policies and choices that will help humanity address the interconnected issues of climate change, loss of biodiversity and pollution. Volunteers and other guests from Knights of Columbus, Ms. Galaxy Winnipeg, Ms. PreTeen Galaxy Winnipeg, also joined the program and shared their advocacies about environmental protection. Another highlight of the celebration was the launching of CEM’s website. This supplements CEM’s Facebook and Instagram accounts, which serve as platforms for fostering public environmental awareness and knowledge sharing. Through its CEM website, the
organization aims to expand its reach and to amplify its advocacies on environment and sustainability issues. With the valuable assistance of Jullie Quijano, the CEM Information and Communication Committee led the creation of this website, which features information about the organization’s vision and mission, its members, activities, and advocacies, published news articles, and ways to connect with the organization and help to promote the environment as well. The CEM website can be accessed at www.ceminc.org. As part of CEM’s fundraising event, plant and other vegetable seedlings were also sold during the event. Manitoba Filipino Street Festival 2022 On June 18-19, CEM also participated in this year’s Manitoba Filipino Street Festival (MFSF). This was the third year the organization took part in this largest Filipino community event in Manitoba with over 40 community associations participating in this annual event. At this event, CEM partnered with MFSF, CBCRA-Recycle Everywhere, GFL Environmental, Knights of Columbus-St. Edwards Council and MMSM to promote public awareness on waste recycling and reduction through deployment of regular and large recycling bins within the event site and the collection and proper disposal of recyclables. The diversion of these recyclables away from our landfills will help lengthen their lifespan and conserve scarce natural resources. Landfills emit methane, a powerful greenhouse gas that causes climate change. Methane traps heat in the atmosphere 25 times more powerfully than carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas. CEM also held a raffle and seedling fundraiser to support its activities this year. Raffle prize donors were Abigail Lagus, Alma
May Sales, Realtor Gina Gabriel, Norman Garcia of MR. PEG, Linda Christine “Ting” Mallari of Utmost Financial, Rizalina Cortez, Teody Leano, Jeepney Restaurant, Mariciel Nuyda and Ramon Sales. The success of these events would not have been possible without the continuous support of CEM’s key partner organizations, donors, and the members
themselves who organized, attended, and volunteered for these events. Individuals who are interested in joining CEM as volunteers or members can send an e-mail to caring4environment@ gmail.com. Mhaolene Leana B. Palevino, is a member of the CEM Information and Communication Committee.
CEM Raffle Fundraiser
Friends from Knights of Columbus - St. Edwards Council helped in disposal of recyclables
Clean-up participants gather at the Assiniboine Park special events entrance
Attendees of the CEM Anniversary celebration
Kids participated in the clean-up
Recycle Everywhere recycling bins
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Beverly Emilia Cuevas 18th birthday and nuptials Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Michael Reves
The lovely debutante and bride, Beverly Emilia Cuevas The debutante/bride with her parents. L-r: Patricia, Cora and Ver Cuevas
The newlyweds, Beverly Emilia and Michael Reves
The newlyweds with family and friends. July2, 2022, Petrus Hall. Photos by Mark Godilano
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Ayon sa anak-anakan naming psychiatrist ay may kakambal na prinsipyo ang pagmu-moveon. May dahilan kung bakit hindi agad nakahahakbang nang pasulong ang isang taong nabigo sa pakikipagrelasyon. Mahabang panahon na ang nakalipas pero parang hindi pa rin nakakapag-move-on ang nasaktan. Nakaupo siya sa silyang tumbatumba na gumagalaw pero hindi naman umaandar. Ayon sa aming kausap ay madali lang naman ang pagmumove-on, hindi raw dapat nagmumukmok lang sa isang sulok ang nasaktan, kailangang ituon niya ang kaniyang oras sa maraming bagay na kapakipakinabang. Sina Bea Alonzo at Gerald Anderson ang aming paksa, hindi pa rin kasi mabanggit ng aktres ang pangalan ng aktor, kaya maraming nag-iisip na mahal pa rin ni Bea si Gerald. Sabi ng anak-anakan naming psychiatrist, “It will really be hard for Bea to move-on dahil malalim ang mga reasons. Niloko siya. She
SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS
was made to believe na sila pa rin, pero mayroon na palang iba ang guy. “She was fooled. Mahirap mag-move-on kapag may mga unfinished situations. It doesn’t mean that she still loves the guy, sobrang sakit pa ang napi-feel niya hanggang ngayon. “There’s principle in movingon. Hindi ganoon kadaling lumimot lalo na kapag sobrang lalim ng ginawang pangloloko ng guy,” sabi ni dok. Pero darating at darating din naman pala ang panahon ng paglimot. Iyong kahit gahiblang sakit ay wala nang mararamdaman si Bea. Iyong indifferent na siya. Iyong parang talbos na lang ng kamote ang tingin niya kay Gerald. Iyon pala ang eksaktong interpretasyon ng moving-on. Iyong wala nang pakialam nang isandaang porsiyento si Bea Alonzo sa dati niyang karelasyon. *** Ang pinakamagandang promosyon ng kahit sinong personalidad ay ang sinasabi ng mga kababayan See CRISTY p11
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• Bea Alonzo – Hindi pa rin maka move-on? • Alden Richards at Sofia Andres – Mapagpahalaga sa kapuwa • Maid In Malacañang, the movie – Inaabangan na • Tom Rodriguez – Mukhang nakapag-move-on na • Kris Aquino – Nakakaalarma ang kapayatan • Agot Isidro – Mapakla ang mundo? • Pokwang at Lee O’Brian – Kumpirmadong hiwalay na • Ai Ai Delas Alas – Maligaya sa piling ni Gerald Sibayan • Nora Aunor – Pinagbabawalan pang magtrabaho • It’s Showtime – Mapapanood na sa TV5
Bea Alonzo
Alden Richards
Sofia Andres
Tom Rodriguez
Kris Aquino Agot Isidro
The cast of Maid In Malacañang with Direk Darryl Yap
Pokwang & Lee O’Brian
Ai Ai Delas Alas
Nora Aunor
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Don’t miss The Hockey Sweater - A Musical Watch the Filipino leads: Nathan Malolos and Rochelle Kives (Rainbow’s MA-BUHAY! Filipinos Singing for their Lives) lead a cast of 19! It’s also the rookie season for young actors. Nine out of 10 kids are from Manitoba and all of them are making their debuts as leads! The choreographer comes from the cast of Disney’s Aladdin on Broadway! Jaz Sealey started at Rainbow Stage (took singing lessons from Tita Joy Lazo, Rainbow Stage Board of Directors) when he was a kid and is excited to give back to the city he grew up in. Roster: Keara Allain, Matthew Armet, Dex Drewitz, Luke Dziver, Erik Evason, Matthew Fletcher, Colleen Furlan, Davison Gee, Katie German, Carlyn Graff-Czehryn, Rochelle Kives, Devin Lowry, Nathan Malolos, Alba Manuel, Harry Nelken, Yasmine Ravandi, Hannah Schaeffer, Kaelyn Yoon-MacRae, and Kevin McIntyre Don’t miss The Hockey Sweater - the breakaway musical based on the classic Canadian story – now ON till July 17 at the Rainbow Stage.
JULY 16 - 31, 2022
CRISTY... From page 8 nating naeengkuwentro nila. Walang bayad iyon. Kusang-loob. Bakit ba ikinakambal sa pangalan ni Alden Richards ang pagiging mabait at mapagkumbaba? Bakit walang kahit sinong namba-bash sa kaniya kahit saan siya magpunta? Napakahambol kasi ng sikat at guwapong aktor, hindi siya nagdadamot ng panahon sa kaniyang mga tagahanga, marunong siyang magbalik ng sukli sa suportang ibinibigay sa kaniya ng publiko. Mismong kaibigan namin ang nagkuwento na noong makita nila si Alden na kumakain sa isang Korean restaurant sa Amerika ay siya pa mismo ang lumapit sa ating mga kababayan. “At kinausap pa niya kami, he gave us time, unlike noong isang male personality na in-approach ng mga anak ko para magpapicture, pumayag naman siya, pero parang galit siyang nagkamot ng ulo!” sabi ng aming kaibigan. Sa Madrid, Spain ay natiyempuhan din ng magasawang Bryan at Jez, mga dumpster divers, si Sofia Andres. Sa tapat mismo iyon ng Hermes, nagsi-shopping ang aktres, nagtanong si Jez kung puwede ba nitong mayakap si Sofia? Hindi lang tumango si Sofia, siya pa mismo ang lumapit kay Jez, hindi matapus-tapos ang kaligayahan ng ating kababayan sa pagyakap nito kay Sofia. Sabi ni Jez, “Napakabait niya, tinanong ko lang siya, ‘Can I hug you?’ Siya pa ang lumapit sa akin, napakaganda niya!” Walang presyo ang mga ganoong papuri sa mga personalidad. Kusang-loob iyon na ang pinag-ugatan ay ang kanilang ugali. Napakahalaga ng mga nagaganap sa likod ng mga camera, walang halong kaplastikan ang ganoon, purongpurong nagsasalita sa kung ano talaga ang kanilang pagkatao. Pagbabalik ng sukli sa puhunan ang masarap na itawag sa ginagawa ng mga artistang mapagpahalaga sa kanilang kapuwa. *** Hawak sa leeg ng proyektong Maid In Malacañang ang marami nating kababayan. Sagot sa marami nilang tanong ang gustong matanggap ng mga Pinoy. Nasaksihan natin ang EDSA People Power, ang pag-iipon-ipon ng pamilya Marcos sa veranda ng Palasyo noong todo na ang pagkakagulo sa lansangan, pero anu-ano nga ba ang naganap noong huling tatlong araw bago ipinatapon sa Hawaii ang dating Unang Pamilya? Kahit ang mga kaibigan naming abogado ay nag-aabang sa pelikula. Mahigit na tatlong dekada na kasing naglalaro sa kanilang isip kung ano ang nangyari sa Palasyo noong malapit na silang umalis. Nagkaiyakan ba ang magkakapatid na Marcos? Buongbuo pa rin kaya ang loob ng dating Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos at ng Unang Ginang? Walang anumang kuwentong
SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS
lumabas tungkol sa huling pitumpu’t dalawang oras ng pamilya Marcos sa Malacañang. Ang napanood lang namin ay ang panayam kay Pangulong Bongbong Marcos tatlong taon pagkatapos silang palayasin sa ating bayan. Sa Makiki Heights sa Hawaii naganap ang interbyu, batambata pa noon ang kasalukuyan nating pangulo, ayon sa kaniya ay pinapaniwala silang sa Paoay sila dadalhin pero naging sa Hawaii. Malacañang Of The North ang Paoay kung tawagin, dapat ay doon lang sila dadalhin ng mga Amerikanong sumundo sa kanila, pero naging sa Hawaii nga. Ang kasagutan sa sangkatutak na tanong ng ating mga kababayan ang kipkip ngayon ng pelikula ni Direk Darryl Yap kung bakit inaabangan ang proyektong mga kasambahay ng dating Unang Pamilya ang pinag-ugatan ng mga salaysay. Nang una naming mapanood ang trailer ng Maid In Malacañang ay kinilabutan kami sa mga napanood naming eksena. May sumilip na luha sa aming mga mata. Ganoon tayong mga Pinoy. Melangkolya ang hatid sa atin ng mga kaganapang kailanman ay hindi nating makakalimutan bilang isang lahi. *** Isang b na kaibigan namin ang nakakita kay Tom Rodriguez sa isang restaurant sa Washington. Katabi lang ng kanilang mesa ang puwesto ng aktor habang kumakain na kasama ang kaniyang pamilya. Sa paglalarawan ng aming kaibigan ay mukhang nakapagmove-on na si Tom sa naganap sa kanila ni Carla Abellana. Maayos ang itsura ni Tom, mukhang nakakatulog nang mahimbing, sa kanilang pagkukuwentuhan ay naririnig ng grupo ng aming kaibigan ang madalas niyang pagtawa. “He seems okey. I was expecting na mukhang madusing na Tom ang makikita ko, dahil sa paghihiwalay nila ng wife niya. Pero baligtad. Guwapo, maayos, very positive ang dating niya. “Which is but right. Alangan namang magmukmok siya at patigilin ang mundo niya because of what happened. The whole time, he was okey,” kuwento ng mahal naming kaibigan. Mabuti naman kung ganoon. Dapat lang namang tinatanggap natin ang mga nagaganap kahit hindi pa natin inaasahan. Ibangiba lang kasi ang kinahinatnan ng relasyon nina Tom at Carla. Pagkatapos nilang magmahalan nang mahigit na pitong taon ay nagpakasal sila pero pagkatapos lang nang tatlong buwan ay nauwi na sila sa hiwalayan. Iyon ang ikinagigimbal ng publiko. Ano ang nangyari at sino sa kanila ang nagkulang? Maraming nanghihinayang sa nawasak nilang relasyon pero wala namang makapagbibigay ng sagot kung bakit nagkaganoon kundi silang dalawa lang. Tama. Hindi nga garantiya ang haba ng panahon para masabing panghabambuhay na ang kanilang
relasyon.
*** Mas tumaas ang respeto namin sa pamunuan ng GMA7. Nakarating sa amin ang impormasyon na sinigurado nila na may babalikan pang trabaho sa istasyon si Tom Rodriguez pero kailangan lang munang magpalamig ang aktor. Napakainit pa nga naman ng isyu tungkol sa paghihiwalay nila ni Carla Abellana, walang puwedeng kampihan ang network, dahil parehong nagtatrabaho sa kanila ang dating mag-asawa. Pero nakatutuwang malaman na hindi nila mas pinabibigat pa ang mabigat na ngang problema ng kanilang artista. Sa halip ay pag-asa ang kanilang ibinibigay, kailangan lang munang magpalipas ng panahon, pero siguradong may babalikan pa rin siyang ikabubuhay. “May communication sila sa mga stars nila, hindi lang career ang binibigyan nila ng importance, pati ang personal life ng mga artista nila. “Wala silang kinakampihan, iniintindi nila ang magkabilang kampo, pero ang mahalaga, iyong promise na anuman ang mangyari, may trabaho pa ring babalikan ang mga artista nila,” papuri ng aming kausap. Ang aming pagrespeto sa network. *** Marami pala tayong kababayan na dumadalaw kay Kris Aquino sa Houston, Texas. Ang kanilang
mga kamag-anak, mga kaibigan ng kanilang pamilya, pati mga politikong kaalyado nila. Maraming nagtatanong kung bakit walang kapatid si Kris na sumama sa kaniya sa pagpapagamot sa ibang bansa. Nakakaawa raw naman ng TV host, baka raw matulad siya sa kaniyang pumanaw na kapatid na dating pangulo na nakita na lang ng tagapag-alaga na wala nang buhay, nag-iisa lang sa kuwarto. Sa puntong iyon ay hindi kami nag-aalala, siguradong matinding suporta ang ibinibigay sa kaniya nina Ballsy, Pinky at Viel, kailanman ay hindi siya pinabayaan ng kaniyang mga ate. Kahit kapag nalalagay sa gitna ng kontrobersiya si Kris ay parang kinatawan niya ang mga ito para ipagtanggol siya. Sa mga isyung delikado na pamba-bash ng mga kababayan natin ang tinatanggap ni Kris ay parang mga Girl Scouts na palaging nakahanda ang kaniyang mga ate para samahan siya sa pagsagot sa interbyu. Pero magkakalayo man sila ngayon ay hindi nagdadamot ng suporta ang magkakapatid para kay Kris, pati kina Josh at Bimby, dahil ulilang-lubos na sila at wala nang magtutulungan ngayon kundi sila-sila na lang. Nakakaalarma ang kapayatan ni Kris. Nakakaawa siyang tingnan sa isang larawan na siya rin ang naglabas. Kitang-kita na ang kaniyang mga buto na pinagdidikit na lang ng balat sa kakaunti niyang laman.
PAGE 11 Harinawang makapagdagdag siya ng timbang. At sana nga ay maging epektibo ang lahat ng prosesong ginagawa sa kaniya sa Houston. Nagpapasalamat si Kris Aquino sa lahat ng mga nagdarasal para sa kaniyang paggaling. Panalangin na sana’y maging tuluy-tuloy pa rin hanggang hindi natin nakikita ang dating Kris na kinagisnan natin. *** Ramdam pa rin hanggang ngayon ang naging salpukan ng dalawang kampo noong nakaraang eleksiyon. Marami nang nakahakbang nang pasulong pero may mga hindi pa rin makatanggap sa naging resulta ng halalan. Reynang-reyna si Agot Isidro sa kaniyang mapaklang mundo. Ewan kung walang ginagawa ang singer-actress na ito dahil lahat na lang ng nagaganap sa bagong pamunuan ng pamahalaan ay kinokomentuhan niya nang negatibo. Sa inis ng isang loyalista na pamilya Marcos ay isinigaw nito, “Hoy, Agot! Asikasuhin mo na lang ang sarili mo! Maghanap ka ng paraan para magkaroon ka ng anak!” Nagiging personalan na tuloy ang mga nagaganap. Sagutan sila nang sagutan na nauuwi sa mga senaryong dapat ay hindi na nakakalkal. *** Kumpirmadong noong nakaSee CRISTY p14
PAGE 12
OUR COMMUNITY PILIPINO EXPRESS
JULY 16 - 31, 2022
Manitoba Filipino Street Festival 2022
Photos courtesy of Manitoba Filipino Street Festival (Josel Media Photography, Nonie Manalili & J&J Photography) More photos next issue
EH KASI, PINOY!
JULY 16 - 31, 2022
PILIPINO EXPRESS
PAGE 13
Beautiful lies. Nasanay ka na ba sa kasinungalingan? Bibisita daw ang Pangulo sa maliit na barrio ng Mababang Kawayan sa darating na Sabado. Dahil dito, nagbigay ng homework ang guro sa kaniyang mga estudyante na sumulat ng kani-kanilang mga mapupulot na mensahe mula sa talumpati ng Pangulo. Sa kasamaang palad ay hindi makakadalo si Carlito dahil tuwing Sabado ay nagsusuga siya ng kalabaw sa bukid at tiyak na hindi siya papayagan ng kaniyang mahigpit na Ama na lumiban para lamang dumalo sa pagtitipon na ito. Dumating na ang araw ng Sabado. Halos lahat ng estudyante ay nagtungo sa plaza upang abangan ang pagdating ng Pangulo. Si Carlito ay nasa bukid kasama ang kaniyang mga kalabaw. Hindi siya makakadalo. Ngunit sa isip ni Carlito ay nakikita niya ang pagdating ng Pangulo kasama ang kanilang Mayor. Sinalubong sila ng Banda Uno Musikero na tanyag sa kanilang lugar. Itinugtog ang awit na Sampaguita ng aming lahi habang pumapanhik sa entablado ang Pangulo patungo sa podium para ito magsalita. Maraming mga guwardiya sa paligid. May mga
kapulisan din ang nakahanay sa paligid ng plaza para sa seguridad ng Pangulo. Buo na sa isip ni Carlito ang magaganap kahit wala siya sa plaza. Habang nasa malawak na kabukiran ay iniisip ni Carlito kung ano ang magiging talumpati ng Pangulo. Tinitiyak niya na ipapangako ng Pangulo ang pagkakaroon ng maayos na kalye sa kanilang barrio, ang patubig sa mga magsasaka, ang pinansiyal na tulong sa mga sakada, ang pagpapatayo ng health centres ang pagtatalaga ng mga doktor at komadrona. Sasabihin din ng Pangulo na sa susunod na anim na taon ay malaking pagbabago ang magaganap sa Mababang Kawayan. Bubuhos ang tulong mula sa palasyo at palalakasin ang sektor ng pagsasaka para sa patuloy na pag-unlad ng kanilang lugar. Matapos ang talumpati ay nagtayuan ang lahat at pinalakpakan ang Pangulo. Muling tumugtog ng magagan-dang awitin ang Banda Uno Musikero. Masaya ang lahat. Nagkamayan ang mga nasa entablado. Nagkaroon ng kuhanan ng litrato at sinundan ang Pangulo ng ilang mga kawani ng media
para kapanayamin. Sa kabuuan ay isang matagumpay na pagtitipon ang naganap. Pag-uwi ng bahay ay isinulat ni Carlito ang kaniyang mga naisip at pagdating ng Lunes ay ipinasa niya ito sa kaniyang guro bilang bahagi ng kanilang homework. “Magandang araw mga bata,” ang sabi ng guro. “Ibabahagi ko ngayon sa inyo ang isinulat ni Carlito tungkol sa kaniyang mga napulot na mensahe mula sa talumpati ng Pangulo noong Sabado.” Nakinig ang lahat sa kanilang guro habang binabasa ang isinulat ni Carlito. Halos lahat ay humanga sa mahusay na pagsasalarawan ni Carlito sa pagdating ng Pangulo at ng kaniyang talumpati. Pati ang kaniyang guro ay humanga sa mga napulot niyang mga mensahe at ang istilo ng pagsusulat ni Carlito. Natapos ang pagbabasa at pinalakpakan si Carlito ng buong klase dahil sa kaniyang husay sa pagsusulat. Tumunog na ang bell. Naglabasan na ang mga estudayante mula sa silid. Ngunit tinawag ng guro si Carlito upang manatili sa loob ng klase. “Umattend ka ba sa event ng Pangulo noong Sabado, Carlito?” tanong ng guro. “Hindi po,” sagot ni Carlito. “Kaya pala lalo mong napa-
ganda ang iyong pagsusulat. Congratulations, Carlito. Makakauwi ka na,” sabi ng guro. That’s all they need; lies. Beautiful lies. Ang social media ay punongpuno ng mga impormasyon at kasinungalingan. Kapag nagbukas tayo ng Facebook o YouTube at ng ilan pang mga social media applications ay naghahanap tayo ng gusto nating mabasa, mapanood at mapakinggan. Bukod dito ay automatic na nagfe-feed ang social media ng mga bagay base sa ating huling binasa, pinanood o pinakinggan. Dahil dito ay nalalaman ng social media kung ano ang gusto nating marinig at ito’y nagpapatuloy ng nagpapatuloy hanggang sa hindi na tayo nag-iisip at hindi na nating kinu-kwestiyon ang mga bagay na ating pinapakinggan at pinapanood. Nagiging tagasunod na tayo. We accept the lies, dahil yun ang gusto nating marinig; those beautiful lies. Nabubuhay tayo sa kasinungalingan. Ito ang masakit na reyalidad. Patuloy na ginagamit ng mga nasa kapangyarihan ang social media para kontrolin ang isip ng tao, para baluktutin ang tuwid, para ibahin ang kasaysayan, gawing bayani ang mga gumahasa sa bayan, gawing normal ang
abnormal at tanggapin ang hindi totoo – ang kasinungalingan. Ang bersyon natin ng kasaysayan na babalikan ng mga susunod na henerasyon ay nakasalalay sa kung gaano tayo magiging mulat sa kasalukuyan. Hindi dahil sa katanggap-tanggap ito sa karamihan ay ito na ang katotohanan. Mas marangal ang taong nagtatanggol sa katuwiran at katotohanan kaysa sa mga taong nilulunok ang kasinungalingan kapalit ng kapangyarihan at pakinabang. At ang masakit, nagkakamali din ang tao ng tatlumpu’t isang milyong beses. Noel Lapuz ay dating OFW sa Middle East (Dubai at Qatar). Nagtrabaho nang sampung taon sa City Hall ng Taguig bilang Human Resource Management Officer. Naging bahagi ng BataBatuta Productions bilang manunulat, entertainment host at stage actor. Nagtatag ng Kulturang Alyansa ng Taguig. Kasapi ng Ecumenical Movement for Justice and Peace (EMJP). Paunawa: Ang mga paksa at salitang nakasaad sa Batang North End ay sariling opinion ng may-akda at maaaring hindi opinion ng mga taga-lathala ng Pilipino Express.
Manitoba Filipino Street Festival 2022
Photos courtesy of Manitoba Filipino Street Festival. (Josel Media Photography, Nonie Manalili & J&J Photography)
EH KASI, PINOY!
PAGE 14
PILIPINO EXPRESS
CRISTY... From page 11 raang Nobyembre pa opisyal na hiwalay sina Pokwang at Lee O’Brian. Pitong buwan nilang naitago ang katotohanan. Magandang hakbang dahil kung lumabas ang hiwalayan noong kasagsagan ng kampanya at halalan ay siguradong pinagpistahan ang naganap sa romansa ng komedyana at ng Amerikano. May mga nagkokomento na karma ang naganap kay Pokwang. Karma saan? Paanong karma? Dahil lang sa natatakan siyang Pinklawan noong nakaraang eleksiyon? Hindi dapat ikinakambal ang salitang karma sa pagkasira ng anumang relasyon. Hindi sila gumawa ng krimen sa batas para nila pagdusahan. Ang relasyon ay nawawasak na ang mga sangkot lang sa pagmamahalan ang nagdedesisyon. Walang karma sa naganap kina Pokwang at Lee, nagkanikaniyang landas sila dahil iyon ang nakikita nilang pinakamagandang
hakbang, ang maging magkaibigan pa rin sila sa kabila ng paglipad ng pagmamahalan. At maganda ang naging paguusap nila. Sa mga panahong nasa malayong lugar ang komedyana sa pagtatrabaho ay puwedeng magpunta sa kaniyang bahay si Lee para alagaan ang kanilang anak na si Malia. Kesa sa magpalitan sila nang masasakit na salita ay ginawa nilang edukado ang kanilang hiwalayan. Hindi sila nagbatuhan ng putik sa harap ng publiko, binigyan nila ng kahihiyan ang kanilang mga sarili, pati ang kanilang anak na si Tisay. Positibong solusyon sa isang negatibong senaryo ang inupuan nina Pokwang at Lee O’Brian. *** Kung personal na buhay ang pag-uusapan ay mukhang wala nang mas sasaya pa ngayon sa Comedy Concert Queen na si Ai-Ai delas Alas. Maligaya ang kanilang pagsasama ni Gerald Sibayan. Naturingang magkalayo ang kanilang edad na noong una pa lang ay hinusgahan na ng marami
KROSWORD
NO. 397
Ni Bro. Gerry Gamurot
PAHALANG 1. Natakot 5. Patutuluyin 12. Lakas ng loob 13. Uri ng kahoy 14. Pinsala 16. Turo 17. Alisin 18. Magalang na tugon 19. Hudyat sa taguan 21. Ipalit 25. Hati 27. Pananong 29. Paniwala 31. Matibay na lubid 32. Masusulyapan PABABA 1. Sapat 2. Tuliro 3. Harang 4. Taling 6. Diyos-diyosan 7. Labis 8. Batubalani 9. Ugali 10. Makapangyarihang pinuno
11. Natamo 15. Ipasyal 18. Henyo 20. Takas 21. Ilag 22. Inggit 23. Linis 24. Hilo 26. Alyas 28. Unlapi 30. Simbolo ng arsenic 31. Palayaw ng lalaki
SAGOT SA NO. 396
pero pinatunayan ng mag-asawa na totoo ngang age is just a number. Nagkakasundo sila sa maraming bagay. Sabay silang nangangarap. Nagtutulungan sila sa pinapasok nilang negosyo. Nagiintindihan sila. Nagtapos na ng pagpipiloto si Gerald, ilang panahon pa ay matatapos na rin nito ang commercial flying, malayo ang pangarap ni Gerald sa napili nitong linya. Pero ang kasalu-saludo kay AiAi ay ang ginawa niyang solidong relasyon ng kaniyang mister at mga anak. Walang problema sa relasyon ni Gerald kina Sancho, Nicolo at Sofia. Sabi ng bestfriend ni Ai-Ai, “Mahusay kasing makisama si Gerald, he’s so disciplined, nakikita ng mga anak ni Ai-Ai na hindi pabigat si Gerald sa pamilya nila. “Nagtapos siya sa college, kumuha siya ng aviation, saka si Gerald ang tumutulong sa kanilang mga kailangan. Sa Amerika, hindi na nila kailangang tumawag pa ng gagawa ng kung anumang nasira. Kayang gawin iyon ni Gerald. “Marami siyang alam, hindi lang siya masalita, kaya masayangmasaya si Ai-Ai sa pagiging close ni Gerald at ng mga anak niya,” kuwento nito. Hindi tatalikuran ni Ai-Ai ang pag-aartista na bumago ng kaniyang kapalaran. Hanggang may mga nagtitiwala sa kaniyang talento ay hindi siya bibitiw. Pero naihanda na ng komedyana ang buhay nila sa Amerika, mayroon na siyang binuong mundo kapag nagpaalam na siya sa pag-arte, kasama ang kaniyang asawa at mga anak. *** Pinagbabawalan pang magtrabaho ng kaniyang mga doktor si Nora Aunor. Naospital siya at nakalabas na pero hindi iyon nagbibigay sa Superstar ng kalayaang sumalang na sa pagtatrabaho. Kailangan pa niyang magpagaling, hindi pa rin normal ang kaniyang pahinga, matatagalan pa bago magbigay ng go signal ang kaniyang mga doktor sa pagharap niya sa mga camera. Noong dumalo siya sa pagbibigay ng rekognisyon ng CCP sa mga hinirang na Pambansang Alagad Ng Sining ay
kapansin-pansin ang hirap niyang pagsasalita. Malalim ang hugot niya ng hininga, hirap siyang magtawid ng mga salita, ibig sabihin lang ay kailangan pa rin ng tuluy-tuloy na gamutan ng Superstar. Nakalulungkot siyang tingnan habang tumataas ang kaniyang mga balikat sa pagsasalita. Wala na nga siyang boses ay hirap pa siyang huminga. Pero salamat na rin dahil nalundagan ni Nora ang matinding hamon na ito sa kaniyang personal na buhay. Maraming ipinagbabawal sa kaniya ang mga doktor na wala na siyang pamimilian ngayon kundi ang sundin para matupad ang hiling ng mga nagdarasal na sana’y gumaling na siya agad. Isang araw, kapag talagang kayang-kaya na niyang kumilos at huminga nang normal, ay siguradong mapapanood na uli natin si Nora Aunor. Ito ang mundong hindi niya puwedeng talikuran, hanggang kaya pa niya ay aarte at aarte pa rin ang Superstar, buhay na niya ang lokal na aliwan. Noong dumating sa CCP grounds si Nora ay si John Rendez ang nakitang umaalalay sa mabagal niyang paglalakad. Si John ang kaniyang kasama. Si John, na matagal nang sinasabing humaharang sa magandang relasyon nilang mag-iina, puro si John. Tandang-tanda pa namin ang kuwento ni Nora nang sundan niya kami sa veranda ng gusali ng Meralco sa isang pagtitipon noong kontratado pa siya ng TV5. Marami kaming pinag-usapan, isa na sa naging paksa namin si John, ang gumaganap na parang kontrabida para sa mas nakararami sa kaniyang buhay. Sabi ni Nora, “Noong nasa Amerika pa ako, wala naman akong pamilya doon, si John lang ang kasama ko. Noong minsang magkasakit ako, napakalamig ng klima, pero ibinili niya ako ng gamot. Madaling-araw iyon. “Pagbalik niya, bumili din pala siya ng noodles, siya ang naghanda, pinakain muna niya ako bago uminom ng gamot. Hindi ko makakalimutan ang mga maliliit na bagay na ganoon na ginagawa sa akin,” may sinseridad na sabi ni Guy. Pagkatapos niyang ikuwento
JULY 16 - 31, 2022 ang simpleng ginawa sa kaniya ni John ay naisip na lang namin, oo nga naman, kung sino ang nagmalasakit sa atin sa panahon ng kagipitan ay iyon ang pinahahalagahan natin. Hindi raw niya kayang tumayo noong magkasakit siya, namamaluktot siya sa sobrang ginaw, si John ang nagkusang ibili siya ng gamot na may bonus pa palang noodles. “Napakarami naming maruruming damit, siya ang naglalaba, pinagpapahinga lang niya ako. Problemado pa naman ako noon dahil sa kaso. “Napakawalanghiya ko naman kung basta itatapon ko na lang ang taong tumulong sa akin noong mga panahong maysakit ako. Hindi naman ako ganoon,” dagdag pa ni Nora. Napakasarap makarinig ng mga kuwentong mula mismo sa taong pinagmalasakitan. Hindi niya ipinagtatanggol si John Rendez na hindi kasundo ng mga nagmamahal sa kaniya, bumabalik lang siya sa nakaraan, noong madilim na madilim ang kulay ng mundo para sa kaniya. Dekada na ang kanilang pinagsamahan at hanggang ngayo’y magkasama pa rin sila. Siguro nga ay maraming nagawang kabutihan sa kaniya si John Rendez na hindi natin alam. *** Ilang tulog at gising na lang ay sa TV5 na mapapanood ang It’s Showtime. Parang bato nang pagulung-gulong ang mga programa ng ABS-CBN na hindi nalulumutan. Sino ba ang mag-aakala na mawawalan pala ng prangkisa ang sinasabing numero unong network sa ating bayan? Walang nag-isip na isang umaga ay magigising na lang pala ang mga ehekutibo, artista at mga manggagawa ng istasyon na madilim na ang kanilang bakuran. Bukod sa sariling paraan ng ipinasaradong network sa pamamagitan ng digital ay ikinalat nila ang kanilang mga programa sa iba-ibang istasyon. TV5 at A2Z ang sinubukan nila. Hindi pa man umeere sa TV5 ang It’s Showtime ay pinakakain na ng ampalaya si Vice Ganda. Napakapait na apdo naman ang ipinangmumumog niya. Noong namamayagpag pa kasi ang ABS-CBN ay minamaliitnilalait ni Vice ang TV5. Hindi mabubura sa isip ng mga kababayan natin ang interbyu niya kay Alex Gonzaga sa GGV kung saan sinabi niya na okey lang kung ulit-ulitin nito ang pagsusuot ng damit tutal naman ay walang nanonood sa TV5. Isa lang iyon. Marami pang ibang binitiwang panglilibak sa TV5 ang mayabang at mapanglait na komedyanteng ito. Fast forward. Sino ang mag-aakala na ang It’s Showtime pala ay makikipamahay ngayon sa TV5, ang netwok na kung maliitin ni Vice Ganda ay parang wala nang bukas, napakarami niyang kakaining mga salita. Kaya mahirap magsalita nang tapos. Mahirap magyabang. Hindi natin hawak ang bukas. At hindi ipinapangako ang bukas. – CFM
JULY 16 - 31, 2022
PILIPINO EXPRESS
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PILIPINO EXPRESS
JULY 16 - 31, 2022