AZKALS MAKES HISTORY IN PHILIPPINE FOOTBALL

Azkals, the country’s leading football team made history after booking its maiden trip to the Asian Football Cup qualifier after outclassing Tajikistan, 2-1, Tuesday evening at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Football is certainly not the most popular sports in the Philippines.  It’s not even next to basketball which is regarded like a religion in the country. 

Phil Youngbusband and Kevin Ingreso scored the two goals for Azkals that will send the team to the 2019 AFC Asian Cup next January in U.A.E.

Younghusband has been with the team for the past 13 years and he has seen how Azkals struggled to keep up it its feet to survive.  The winning goal was his 50^th international goal.

Younghusband says "Obviously a goal of mine is to get to 50, but the most important thing is the team wins."

The other hero who became part of the history was Kevin ingreso . 

"I actually couldn't believe it," said Ingreso, who was named man of the match. "It's not often I score a goal with my head."

"I was crying. The tears came out," he acknowledged.

photos: cnn.com/screen grabs and other online sources

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"WOMEN OF THE WEEPING RIVER" BRINGS BACK NOSTALGIC MEMORIES

At last, I was able to watch the movie “Women of the Weeping River.”  I had long wanted to watch this film, not only because it is a critically acclaimed film so to speak but the film is close to my heart simply because the language medium used on this film is my own language, the "Tausug" dialect.

The film premiered at the 2016 QC International Film Festival and won the best picture award. Ironically I had no idea that the film was about the Tausug tribe until I attended the Gawad Urian Awards last year.  The film was nominated in various categories and eventually bagged the best picture award.  As the presenters mentioned the nominees showing clips from the movie, I was a bit flabbergasted to hear the characters speak in Tausug (though subtitled in English). The film also won the Best Director award for Sheron Dayoc who is a native of Zamboanga. After the awarding ceremonies, I attempted to talk to the director but there was no chance as he was surrounded by the press covering the event. 

The movie was also screened at last year’s Cinemalaya independent film festival but unfortunately the scheduled screening for that day was called off due to technical problems so the organizers moved it to another date but again, I wasn’t able to watch it, but I had the chance to talk to some relatives of the cast.  I gathered that the whole cast had no previous acting experience at all, except for the 2 week acting workshop that they underwent before they started filming.  The film was finally released for commercial run last week so I made it a point that I get to watch the film.

The film, set in Jolo, Sulu, with an ensemble cast of-non-actors from Western Mindanao region, portrayed conflicts of two warring Tausug clans in Sulu with two women as the main protagonists (played by Laila Ulao and Mariam Zimadar-Caranay-Raper).  As they confront the escalating blood feud that claimed lives of their immediate family members (including their own husband and children), the two women found themselves in a dilemma whether to let go or persevere the blood feud stretching back from generation to generation.  I found myself a bit sentimental while watching the movie as it reminded me of my childhood days.  I've heard similar stories and atrocities about land grabbing which was prevalent in Sulu during the 60’s and 70’s; in fact our family was once a victim of this atrocity.  But thank God, our land was returned back to us without resorting to violence.

The film was beautifully shot against the backdrop of Sulu and Zamboanga's lush forest and beautiful landscape with stellar performances from the cast.  It’s not the typical Filipino film that you see with characters using unconventional and over-the-top dialogues. Here everything was just natural. The director just let the cast deliver their lines in their own language which was so realistic that you feel like you are just watching them speak in real life. I am not going to talk about the movie in details as I am not a movie critic (LOL) but I found the film very engaging to the point that I became a bit nostalgic while watching the movie.  The funeral rites and prayer session are so authentic.  I’ve seen some Filipino films showing the Muslim culture of Southern Philippines but more often than not, they weren't accurate and I just laughed while watching. 

The film may not be attractive to ordinary moviegoers as it is presented in somewhat low-key manner and it's not a fast-paced movie either, but what is interesting about the movie is its pragmatic approach and the actors’ underacting style method which just came out naturally. Laila Ulaw’s performance has earned her at least three acting awards to-date, namely: from QC Int’l film festival, Young Critics’ Circle Award and more recently from ASEAN-China film festival.

                           

It is interesting to note that  young filmmakers like Sheron Dayoc reach out to audience using indigenous language as their medium notwithstanding the commercial viability of their craft but simply to make movies that they believe in.   Dayoc’s directorial style is such a gem and I can’t wait to watch his next film.  I wish that he’d be given more breaks as well as the actors specially Laila Ulaw.  I’ve seen her interview on CNN Philippines; she’s not only beautiful but a gifted actress as well.  I hope giant networks like ABS-CBN and GMA will give breaks to non-Tagalog artists and  promote diversity.  Congratulations to the producers of the film for coming up with a very engaging and visually artistic film.  

NOTE:  Women of the Weeping River will be shown at '76 Cinema in San Juan, beginning 31 March 2018.  
#womenoftheweepingriver

CATRIONA GRAY'S BOYFRIEND

"You are like a diamond."

This is what commercial model Clint Bondad posted on his Instagram account after Catriona Gray was crowned Miss Universe Philippines Monday morning.  Clint is Catriona's boyfriend.  Both Cat and Clint appeared on Smart TVC a few years ago (Link to the video).  Bondad is embarking a showbiz career and has appeared in some tv shows on ABS-CBN. He is also one of the 5 members of ASAP's  new all male group called Cover Boys that includes Albie Casino, Tommy Esguerra, Luis Hontiveros and Tanner Mata.   

BB. PILIPINAS 2018 WINNERS

Catriona Gray bested out 39 candidates in last night's Bb. Pilipinas pageant.  Catriona not only bagged the most coveted Miss Universe Philippines crown, she also took home 5 special awards namely: Best in Swimsuit, Best in Evening Gown, Best in National Costume (Pitoy Moreno national costume award) and two corporate awards (Ever Bilena and Jag Jeans).  Catriona was the absolute crowd favorite.  She received the loudest cheers from the crowd of around 15,000 cheering fans.  The Araneta Coliseum was filled to the rafters and the noise inside was insane with fans chanting and playing plastic trumpets, we could hardly hear the hosts and the contestants during the Q&A round.  Yes, it happens perhaps only in the Philippines.  

Here's the full list of winners:

Miss Universe-Philippines 2018 - Catriona Gray 

Bb. Pilipinas-International Ma. Ahtisa Manalo

Bb. Pilipinas-Supranational Jehza Huelar

Bb. Pilipinas-Intercontinental Karen Gallman

Bb. Pilipinas-Grand International Eva Patalinjug

Bb. Pilipinas-Globe Michele Gumabao

1st runner-up - Vicky Ralston

2nd runner-up -Samantha Bernardo

Newly crowned Bb. Pilipinas Grand International Eva Patalinjud poses
with Miss Grand International founder Mr. Nawat Itsaragrisil 

Jehza Mae Huelar finally made it after 3 attempts.  She will now represent the country for 2018 Miss Supranational.  Karen Gallman, another repeater, made it this time and will represent the Philippines at Miss Inter-continental.

At last, Bb. Pilipinas gets new crowns, for a change.  The old crowns looks mediocre and cheap.  Parang ung mga crowns lang nabibili kung saan saan (it's like those crowns that you can buy anywhere on the streets).

It is also worth mentioning that Miss Grand International's chairman Mr. Nawat Itsaragrisil attended the pageant last night.  If I am not mistaken, he also attended last year's pageant.  

Congratulations to all the winners!

Here's the full text of Catriona's winning answer.

H.E. Sung Kim (US. A.mbassador to the Philippines) :

“After the devastating war, Marawi is now on its way to recovery. What is your message to the young women of Marawi?”

Gray: “Thank you for that question. My answer and my message to the women is to be strong. As women, we’re the head of the household and we have amazing influence not only in our families, as mothers, sisters and friends, but also in our community. If we could get the women to stay strong and be that image of strength for the children and the people around them, then once the rebuilding is complete and is underway, the morale of the community will stay strong and high. Thank you.”

Here are other finalists Answers during the Q& round:
Thanks to Philstar.com 
(https://www.philstar.com/entertainment/2018/03/19/1798288/full-text-binibining-pilipinas-2018-top-15-finalists-qa

The finalists were randomly called through draw lots. Here are their answers to the judges' questions.

Bb. #35: Sandra Lemonon

Judge Saavedra: “What are your insights on the government’s ‘Build, Build, Build’ program?”

Lemonon: “The insights of the government’s ‘Build, Build, Build’ program. Actually, I studied so much for this Q&A, but suddenly that’s something that I really don’t know much about. But, at least I’m here trying to answer a good question. Thank you!”

Wurtzbach then commented after Lemonon’s response: “Oh, I love her honesty. That’s better than lying.”

“That’s true,” echoed her co-host, Richard Gutierrez.

Bb. # 11: Maria Andrea Abesamis

Brown: “Boracay has its hazardous environmental situation. What is your view on this issue?”

Abesamis: “My view on this issue is that it’s a big matter right now. We need to conserve our natural habitat and our isles as a Filipino and a Filipina. Because we live there. We live in the country. There are locals there and we’re supposed to take care of it. Thank you.”

Bb. #14: Samantha Mae Bernardo

Judge Anderson: “What do you think is the biggest misconception about beauty pageant contestants?

Bernardo: “I think the biggest concept, misconception in beauty pageants today is that we’re just beautiful. But we are not. We are confidently beautiful. We’re compassionate and we’re very competent. We are in a year wherein we have surpassed odds about women. And we continue to prove ourselves in a society. We can be at home, raising a family, or an office having a career. Or just like me here, joining pageants, celebrating our femininity. Thank you!”

Bb. # 24: Edjelyn Joy Gamboa 

Judge Valdez: “If inner beauty is emphasized in beauty pageants, then why are there physical requirements upon joining it?”

Gamboa: “Okay, honestly speaking, there’s no requirement, there’s no beauty requirement in a competition like this. Everyone is accepted as long as you have a good heart, as long as you are confident with your looks, and then you’ll be a part of Binibining Pilipinas. Thank you.”

Wurtzbach then commented: “It’s for everyone! I like that.”

Bb. # 3: Murielle Adrienne Orais

Judge Lopez: “This year marks the graduation of the first-ever batch of K-to-12 students. What is your message to them?”

Orais: “My message to the students is that you have to focus on your studies, because their parents are very working hard for their education. I believe that education will give them knowledge and experience and it will give them a better future. Thank you.”

Wurtzbach nodded with Orais: “I believe that, too!”

Bb. # 1: Vickie Marie Rushton

Judge Ravena: “Do you believe hazing and fraternities has its own good? Why and why not?”

Rushton: “I believe that any violence is no good, because one person alone can stand up for herself or himself. And as a Bb. Pilipinas, I can be that influence to spread the word that violence is not acceptable. Thank you.”

Bb. # 32: Eva Psychee Patalinjug

Judge Echiverri: “What is the role of beauty queens in the pursuit of our country’s economic success, if any?”

Patalinjug: “A role of the beauty queen is to be a voice. I am here to make a message to all of you. In these times of uncertainty…taking over our country, we have remained steadfast and have faith in all of its challenges. As a united nation, what we should do is to set aside our political differences, economic and social preferences. Let our love and loyalty to our country rise above all, in the hopes of making a peaceful country. Thank you.”

Gutierrez then commented: “Very well said!”

Bb. # 17: Maria Athisa Manalo

Judge Quigaman: “How should a beauty queen respond to ruthless criticism?”

Manalo: “A beauty queen should always respond to criticisms constructively. We beauty queens are public figures and we put ourselves in a position to be judged. But nonetheless, we should always, we should always filter which comments we should accept and what we should not. Thank you.”

Wurtzbach then said: “Good save! I love that!”

Richard added: “Nice recover!”

Bb. # 19: Michele Theresa Gumabao

Judge Drilon: “What can you do to fight fake news?”

Gumabao: “I know that fake news is very rampant nowadays, but in order to fight these, we must first, know what we are reporting, know what we are reading and at the same time, be accountable for what we say, especially online. And I hope that media always filters their news, their resources to always deliver truth and authentic news. Thank you.”

Wurtzbach then commented: “Well said.”

Bb. # 31: Jehza Mae Huelar

Judge Kim: “What do you think is the most important quality of a millennial woman?”

Huelar: “I think the most important quality a millennial woman have is to have a vision. With her vision, she should have this attitude and perseverance so that she can achieve her goals. And if she’s good at vision, she will be able to express herself freely. So I would hope that all the millennials out here would really adhere to our culture and our tradition so that we can inspire others, we can impact people. Thank you.”

Bb. # 26: Wynonah Van Joy Buot

Judge Anderson: “Name one great Filipino artist you truly admire and why?”

Buot: “One great Filipino artist I truly admire would probably be Toni Gonzaga. Although she’s a celebrity and we have a stereotype when it comes to celebrities, I truly admire her because she follows a certain path when it comes to her life. She actually has a successful career, a complete family, and she did these all together by following her parents. And that’s one important thing that we millennials must learn. You will never fail in life when you follow your parents. Thank you!”

Wurtzbach said: “I’m gonna remember that!”

Gutierrez then seconded: “Shout out to mom and dad!”

Wurtzbach added: “I love you, mommy!”

Bb. # 21: Anjame Magbitang

Judge Lopez: “When is the right time to listen and when is the right time to speak?”

Magbitang: “It’s time to listen if you respect the people who will talk and then you will try to speak after the people who talk to you speak because there must be…The best version...”

Bb. # 38: Karen Juanita Gallman

Judge Quigaman: “Do you agree that a third restroom should be built for transgenders? Why or why not?”

Gallman: “I definitely agree there should be a third restroom for transgender because us women would like a privacy and also with men, and we have a separate room for the transgender. It just serves as an equality and privatization. Thank you.”

Bb. #15: Juliana Kapeundl

Judge Drilon: “Misogyny or bias against women has been very prevalent lately. How should this be addressed?”

Kapeundl: “I think this should be addressed by empowering women. We women, we have to think that we are not just women. We don’t need labels. As mother, daughter, sister, we have our own individuality and we have to use it to our advantage and let our strengths shine. So, as women, we have to empower our co-women an equality with men in the future. Thank you.”

FINAL TOP 15 PICKS FOR 2018 BB. PILIPINAS

This year's batch is probably the strongest in recent years.  More than half of this year's candidates are pageant veterans, meaning they are either repeaters or crossovers from other national pageants.  It's quite hard to choose which one should go to Miss Universe or Miss International and so on as there are a dozen of them worthy of winning any of the six titles in contention.  I am not gonna name who is my pick for each title but l just listed down my top 15.  It all depends on their performance tonight and the Q&A shall be the deciding factor in choosing the top winners.

Catriona Gray leads the pack.  She's beautiful, articulate and many agree that she's the one for Bb. Pilipinas Universe.  Jehza Mae Huelar tries her luck for the third time hoping to win one of the crowns tonight.   Another standout is Karen Gallman.  Karen Gallman and Vicky Ralston are two of the shortest candidates but no doubt they are also  two of the prettiest.  Another favorite is volleyball star player Michele Gumabao.  

2015 Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach was quoted saying that this year the candidates are allowed to wear  gown of their own choice unlike in previous years.  Since both Aya Abesamis and Catriona Gray comes from a well-off family and have all the support they can get from their mentors, they can afford to have the best gowns of their own choice and we'll see who will pull it off on the ramp.

Here's my  Top 15 list:

(1) Vicky Ralston   (3) Muriel Orais  (7)  Sigrid Grace Flores  (11)  Ma. Andrea Abesamis
(14) Samantha Bernardo (17) Ma. Ahtisa Manalo  (19) Michele Gumabao  (20) Catriona Gray
(23) Ena Louis Velasco  (26) Wynonah Buot)   (29) Samantha Kaye  (31)  Jehza Mae Huelar
(32) Eva Pantalinjug  (35) Sandra Lemonon  (38)  Karen Gallman

Actor Richard Gutierrez and 2015 Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach will host the pageant tonight. 

      

MOVIE TRAILERS - NOW SHOWING IN CINEMAS

"MY PERFECT YOU" REVIEW KUNO

Based on the trailer of "My Perfect You," one would think that this is just another rom-com movie from Star Cinema but think otherwise.  It's an escapist film and almost all the scenes during the first half of the movie focused on the hallucination episode of Burn (played by Gerald Anderson), who suffered from schizophrenia brought about by severe depression after his girlfriend dumped him who feared that Burn might inherit his mother's mental disorder. Burn orchestrated his marriage proposal to his girlfriend that took place in his work place but was literally turned down right in front of his colleagues. He was eventually fired from his job as he could no longer perform his work.  Feeling devastated, he tried to escape to a faraway place but met a car accident on his way which resulted into his loss of memory. He then went through a period of hallucinations and psychological trauma. Abi (played by Pia Wurtzbach) appeared in his hallucinations but what happens next... well....just watch the movie.  I don't want to be a spoiler.  At any rate, the movie is worth watching.  Director Cathy Molina Garcia proves once more that she is a consistent box-office director to reckon with.

Pia looks fresh and prettier sans those heavy make up that we often see her on TV.  Gerald and Pia seems to have a good chemistry onscreen but I wished they were given a more upbeat and modern storyline that would perfectly suit them. Pia has the potential of becoming a romcom actress but I feel that this is not the right vehicle for her. Gerald is one of the underrated actors and he certainly could play roles vacated by John Lloyd Cruz.  The movie was quite long (more than 2 hours); they could have edited or shortened the delusion episode and will have no effect on the story.

Apparently Pia was offered to be part of "The Big Brother" (US edition) but she turned down the offer in favor of this movie.  Had she accepted the offer, she would have meet again Ariadna Gutierez who's also in the show. It would have been interesting to see Pia and Ariadna together in one show.  Everybody knows what happened in 2015 Miss Universe when host Steve Harvey announced the wrong winner.

BB. PILIPINAS 2018 TOP PICKS

There's no doubt Catriona Gray is the frontrunner of this year's Bb. Pilipinas. She has a legion of fans supporting her which was evident in last Sunday's grand parade of beauties held at the Araneta Center.  She's tall and articulate; in other words she is a total package.  Her Miss World experience certainly works to her advantage.

Next to her are Ma. Andrea Verdadero Abesamis (daughter of 1984 Miss Universe 3rd runner-up Desiree Verdadero) and former La Salle star volleyball player Michele Gumabao.  Both are newbies in pageants but nonetheless they hold on to their own and could just grab any of the six crowns in contention.  

Repeater Jehza Huelar tries her luck for the third time hoping to snatch one of the crowns this time around (she placed 2nd runner up in 2016 and semi-finalist last year).  Another repeater is  Karen Gallman.  She won the Miss Photogenic award in 2012 and now she's back again for the second time.  Other favorites are Wynonah Buot, Samantha Bernardo, Ena Velasco and Vicky Ralston.

Here's my fearless predictions for the 6 coveted crowns:

Bb. Pilipinas Universe/International  - Catriona Gray or Ma. Andrea Abesamis

Bb. Pilipinas Supranational - Michele Gumabao

Bb. Pilipinas Grand International - Ena Velasco

Bb. Pilipinas Inter-Continental - Karen Gallman

Bb. Pilipinas-Globe - Wynonah Buot

1st runner up - Samantha Bernardo

2nd runner-up - Vicky Ralston

PLEASE CLICK THIS LINK TO WATCH VIDEO OF GRAND PARADE OF BEAUTIES

BB. PILIPINAS 2018 - PARADE OF BEAUTIES

Crowd favorites Aya Abesamis and Catriona Gray wave to the crowd during the parade of beauties. 

Beauty pageants remains a big thing in the Philippines; big crowd filled the streets at the Araneta Center during the Bb. Pilipinas 2018 parade of beauties held yesterday . It was like a fiesta on the streets as fans and supporters trooped to Araneta Center to support their bets. Supporters of candidate Sandra Lemonon (#35) were probably the most organized; they came complete with drums, trumpets and huge tarpaulin placards while supporters of Catriona Gray and Michele Gumabao wore colorful uniform shirts.

Last years' winners were also present in the parade except for Nelda Ibe (Bb. Pilipinas Globe).  Bubbly  Bb. Pilipinas Supranational Chanel Thomas live up to to her Miss Friendship awards that she won in 3 pageants she participated.  She's very accommodating to fans and didn't mind even though she was swamped with selfie seekers.  

  Vicky Ralston (top left) is one of the prettiest in this year's batch.  Michele Gumabao (top right) might just pull a surprise in the finals.

Looking at the crowd's response it's easy to pinpoint who are the most popular.  Catriona Gray was obviously the most applauded during the introduction of candidates.  Michele Gumabao is bubbly and Aya Abesamis is elegant and gorgeous in person. Both might just pull a surprise on Sunday.  The coronation night will be on March 18 at Smart Araneta.

From Left to right :  Katarina Rodriguez (Bb. Pilipinas Inter-continental 2017), Rachel Peters (Bb. Pilipinas-Universe 2017), Chanel Olive Thomas (Bb. Pilipinas-Supranational) and Mariel de Leon (Bb. Pilipinas-International 2017

NADINE LUSTRE SIZZLES IN REVEALING BEACH WEAR

Unlike most other young stars in the country, Nadine Lustre  has no qualms  posing in sexy outfits. Nadine posted her pictures in revealing swimwear outfits in her instagram account. Some fans finds it quite outrageous and daring but Nadine doesn't seem to care.  When asked about her lifestyle she would always say "It's 2018."  Photos were shot in Siargao where she spent valentines day with her boyfriend James Reid. 

Who will be the next Bb. Pilipinas Queens?

More than half of this year’s candidates are either repeaters or crossovers from other national pageants.  There are at least 8 repeaters from Bb. Pilipinas including Jehza Mae Huelar (3^rd attempt) and Karen Gallman (2^nd attempt).  There are 7 crossovers from Miss World Philippines headed by Catriona Gray, 4 from Miss Philippines Earth, 3 from Mutya ng Pilipinas and some more from other pageants.

As expected, Catriona Gray is the clear frontrunner of this year’s batch since day one, however pageant pundits are keeping an eye on another candidate (Ma. Andrea “Aya’ Abesamis) who is likely to be Catriona’s closest competitor for the top crown i.e. Bb. Pilipinas Universe title. Aya soars high on everyone’s list with her commanding stage presence and projection. The 26 year old lass from Pasig is the daughter of former Bb. Pilipinas title holder and 1984  Miss Universe 3^rd runner-up Desiree Verdadero. Aya belongs to Aces and Queens camp while Catriona is on her own being an independent candidate.   Catriona’s experience and her top 5 finish at 2016 Miss World will certainly work to her advantage but will she live up to all the hype about her? Will there be an upset win?

Other favorites and most mentioned in pageant sites are Michele Gumabao, Vickie Rushton, Karen Gallman, Wynona Buot, Murielle Orais, Jehza Mae Huelar, Eva Pataginjug and Ena Velasco.

The tallest candidate this year is  Anjame Magbintang (#21)  who stands 5’11” and the oldest is 27 year old Loren Mar Artajos.

The Parade of beauties will take place on Saturday March 10 at the Araneta Center in Cubao.   The grand coronation will culminate on March 18, 2018.

There are 6 beauty titles in contention namely: Bb. Pilipinas Universe, Bb. Pilipinas International, Bb. Pilipinas Supranational, Bb. Pilipinas Grand International, Bb. Pilipinas Intercontinental and Bb. Pilipinas Globe plus 2 runners-up.

 Photo credits: Bb. Pilipinas FB page

TWO 1984 MISS UNIVERSE CONTESTANTS MET AGAIN AFTER 34 YEARS

Desiree Verdadero Abesamis posted on her facebook and instagram account on March 3, 2018, that she met her fellow Miss Universe contestant Miss Holland Nancy Neede at an airport.  She didn't say how they met and which airport, but she posted her pictures of their surprise meet up. Desiree was the Philippines representative at the 1984 Miss Universe held in Miami, Florida where  she placed 3rd runner-up while Miss Holland was one of the 10 semi-finalists. .

Meanwhile, Desiree's daughter (Aya V. Abesames #11) is one of the top favorites in the ongoing Bb. Pilipinas beauty pageant.  Will she follow her mom's footsteps?  Why not, after all Aya has all what it takes.  She is definitely one of the front-runners and who knows, she could be the next Bb. Pilipinas-Universe.  Coronation night will be held on the March 18 at Smart Araneta, same venue where her mom was crowned Bb. Pilipinas Universe 34 years ago.

Credits: Pictures are taken (with permission) from Miss Desiree's facebook account.  Thanks a lot Ms. Desiree and good luck to Aya!