Filipino Journal, Manitoba Edition September 05 - 20, 2023

IGNITING INSPIRATION WITH SENATOR OSLER

Sen. Gigi Osler, a trailblazing FilipinaCanadian, emphasized the importance of being a pioneer for the community during a recent empowering event hosted by the MFBC and Kultivation Festival.The event served as an inspiration for attendees, highlighting the need for trailblazers to forge paths that enable others to follow, ultimately contributing to the broader development and progress of society. Senator Osler pictured in the middle along with MFBC Board of Directors.

Photo by Ron Cantiveros | Filipino Journal

That's A Wrap: Folklorama 2023

The ethno-cultural fabric of Manitoba was celebrated over the past 14 days, as 40 Pavilions across Winnipeg (20 in week one and 20 in week two) opened their Pavilion doors, welcoming 301,460, (including 23,707 children who received free admission under the age of 12 years of age). Guests witnessed 874 fantastic shows, while 137 tours visited from across Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, and the U.S.

"On behalf of the Board of Directors and Operations Team, thank you to all our 15,941 volunteers, members, partners, funders, and YOU, our guests for enabling generations to keep sharing their culture, traditions and the stories that weave Manitobans together," states Teresa Cotroneo, Executive Director, Folklorama. "We look forward to seeing you for Folklorama 53, August 4th-17th, 2024!

Photos by Bryan Mesias

Spain Pavilion

Chinese Pavilion

Scotland Pavilion

African-Carribean Pavilion

Japanese Pavilion

Tamil Pavilion

Tula, Balagtasan at Kundiman: Literary and Artistic Celebration

By: Dante Aviso

The month of August is popularly known in the Philippines as “Buwan ng Wika” (National Language Month) to promote the national language,” Filipino.

The Philippine Canadian Centre of Manitoba Inc. (PCCM) organized

the first ever “Tula, Balagtasan at Kundiman” to celebrate Philippine language, arts and culture that was held last August 19 at PCCM hall.

The event showcased not only the literary and artistic talents of the Filipino community in Winnipeg

but also promoted local businesses and cultural displays.

Students from the Heritage Language Class from Keewatin Prairie Community School and Sargent Park School presented native dance, poems, and songs. Kudos to Winnipeg School Division teachers: Marilyn Gomez Malek, Michelle Feleciano, and Gemma Rose for bringing the grade school students.

The Musica Singers of PCCM under the artistic director, Dante Aviso, and Musical Director, Oscar Pantaleon Jr. mesmerized the audience with its nostalgic kundiman and Filipino folk songs. Musical Singers include: Marielle Cahigas, Jesse Alcasabas, Khristine Torres, Ira Alejo, Ashley Medina, Oscar Pantaleon Jr. Jeff Luna, Ariel Fernando, Dante Aviso, Julian Fuentespina, and Paolo Camus. Balagtasan, a lyrical debate was delivered on stage with the local poet and debaters namely: Gary Sanchez, Enrico Tiglao, Norlita Orbien, Emily de Guzman, Esther Pangilinan and Dante Aviso.

Other musical guests included Hazel Wallace, Elmer Aquino, Ferdinand Fave, Jett Panganiban, Jovelle Balani and her band. Shout

out to our two Zumba groups: WinnipegZINsistarz and Groove Express as they opened the event with their energetic and captivating dance moves. We thank you all the supporters, volunteers, and attendees for this wonderful cultural celebration. This event was made possible through the generous support from the Province of Manitoba through its Art, Culture and Sports Community Fund.

Photo Credit: Michelle Felician /Gary Sanchez

Balagtasan (L-R) N. Orbiente,D. Aviso, G. Sanchez

M.Malek and students from Keewatin Praiire Community School

Paolo and Lorenzo Camus

Musica Singers (L-R)A. Median,O.Pantaleon,D.Aviso,J.Alcasabas,J.Luna,I.Alejo,A.

Fernando,K. Torres

Balagtasan (L-R)D.Aviso,E.Pangilinan,N.Orbiente,E,de Guzman,G.Sanchez

Elmer Aquino

Hazel Wallace singing Kundiman

Jovelle Balani and Band

Francisco Balagtas' Florante at Laura at WECC

On the heels of the historic first-ever full unedited reading of Francisco Balagtas' "Florante at Laura" in North America for Philippine Heritage Month, which happened on June 10 at PCCM and was hosted by the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba, came a lightning-fast re-staging in a true theatre of "Florante at Laura" at the West End Cultural Centre (WECC). This took place as part of the Kultivation Festival, a collaboration between WECC and the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba, to celebrate August as "Buwan ng Wikang Pambansa" (National Filipino Language Month). History was made again as this was

the first ever full Filipino language production to be done at the West End Cultural Centre.

The reading cast was composed mostly of the originals from the first production with Alden Novallasca reading Florante for both shows, Denny Nangan reading Aladin for the matinee, Catherine ManuelFerrer reading for Laura, Cez Berces-Lozada reading for Flerida, Tricia Magsino Barnabe reading for Maria Asuncion Rivera (MAR). The readers also include Sam Albano, Ador Cabrera, Maggie ChanUrbano, Deus Ducepec, Cecil de Guzman, Neil Jusi, and Gemmarose Claveria; with new members Ann Evangelista, Genalyn Tan, Vicky Cabrera, and Noel Lapuz who read for Aladin in the evening show. The choreography cast included Marcelo Aiello (Florante), Bea San Gabriel (Laura), Medi Oman (Aladin), Johsa Manzanilla (Flerida), Ellie Natoza (MAR), Nino Claveria (Adolfo/ Sultan), Henz Lozada (Briseo), and cameos by kids Xander Sison, Scarlett Sison, and Elsa Tian.

One of the pillars of Filipino Literature and required reading in the Philippines between grades 7-10, Florante at Laura was written by Francisco Balagtas while in prison

until 1838 and dedicated to the love of his life Maria Asuncion Rivera who is referred to in the text as MAR or Celia. While Maria Asuncion Rivera is not an actual character in the work, for both productions she read Balagtas' prologue dedication and the note to the reader to honor her memory.

Florante at Laura is a literary song or "awit" in Filipino with 12 syllables per line in quatrain form, similar in form to European epics like the Spanish Cantar de Mio Cid from 1207. The work was delivered in its original form - 1838 Tagalog; and the reader cast brought emotion, soul, and life to the words in full and without edits faithful to the wishes of the author Francisco Balagtas. The choreography cast to compliment created the visual tableaux scenes on stage accentuated by the immersive lighting and the English translation projected on the screen behind.

The creation of two different productions of Florante at Laura two months apart in two very different venues with varying reading and choreography casts put on full display directorial creativity and the brilliant performance ability of the cast composed of volunteers, students, teachers, and working professionals who from the depths

of their hearts endeavor to bring forth the beauty of true Filipino Literature, the Filipino Language, and Filipino Theatre to everyone in our city and community.

works Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo.

Ad Size: 4” x 3” h B/W

As previously announced, in 2024 the company will be presenting a new production on Jose Rizal's

Publication: Contact: Erik Moloney

Director - Ronald Mervin Sison, Assistant Director - Tricia Magsino Barnabe, Musical Director Jett Russel Panganiban, Filipino Language Consultants - Vicky Cabrera and Genalyn Tan.

PRT-060-S-AD Business card

By: Ronald Mervin Sison

Photos by: Deus Ducepec

Photos by: Mervin Sison

Reflecting on Filipinx Cultural Identity Through Art

KATAUHAN, a unique art event co-created and curated by Antoinette Baquiran and Charles Venzon, successfully took place on August 25, 2023, at the Platform Centre located at 121-100 Arthur St. Supported by the Kultivation Art Committee and a dedicated jury, the event showcased the talent of local Filipinx artists and provided new perspectives on Filipinx identity through art.

The idea for KATAUHAN was born during a conversation between Charles and Antoinette at the first general Kultivation meeting in 2023 for existing and new members. The event was conceptualized to celebrate the talent of local Filipinx artists and show the community new perspectives of Filipinx identity through art, encouraging learning and curiosity about what these identities represent.

Antoinette Baquiran and Charles Venzon, with the support of the Kultivation Art Committee— comprising David Oro, Jonato Dalayoan, Kevin Celestino, Herlinda Dalayoan, and Allan Pineda—and a jury that included Hazel Venzon, Kristine Alberto, and Chantel Nygaard, curated the event. After approximately two months of planning, KATAUHAN was unveiled to the local community.

The exhibition involved 19 artists, all of whom generously donated their work for the show's initiative. The event successfully immersed attendees in a gallery that featured a diverse collection of art pieces, each beautifully conveying the essence of Filipinx culture and individual stories.

The curators expressed their gratitude to the Art Committee, Jury, additional volunteers—Sharyn Gutierrez, Jand Avila, Johsa Manzanilla, Darwin Oro, Ralph Gutierrez—and sponsors: Studio Sari Sari, Architects at Play, Bahay Kubo, 4Two Design

and Megganelizabeth Diamond and Tayler Buss from Platform Centre, the main event sponsor.

KATAUHAN was more than just an art exhibition; it was a celebration open to everyone and an opportunity to engage with the artistic community, appreciate the fusion of creativity and heritage, and celebrate the stories that shape us. KATAUHAN successfully invited the community to immerse itself in art, culture, and connection, and the curators, artists, and supporters are eager to continue sharing the beauty of Filipinx artistry.

Photos by Ralph Gutierez

Photo by Charles Venzon

Photos by Ralph Gutierez

Fireside Chat with Sen. Gigi Osler Highlights Importance of Community

politics, and the broader Filipno-Canadian landscape. During a fireside chat with by Karla Atanacio, MFBC Director of Youth Engagement, Sen. Osler highlighted the importance of being a trailblazer, not just for oneself, but for the community. "As a trailblazer, that's a very kind thing to say. I will also say I didn't recognize how important it is to be that trailblazer, to be the first not for yourself, but for others and for your community," she said.

Being a trailblazer for the community is crucial as it sets a precedent, challenges the status quo, breaks down barriers, provides inspiration, fosters a sense of belonging, encourages diversity, and contributes to societal development and progress.

The event included an exchange of insights about her journey across various sectors, networking opportunities with business enthusiasts, professionals, and students dedicated to community service, and the forging of connections with compassionate mentors.

The Manitoba Filipino Business Council (MFBC), in partnership with Kultivation Festival, recently hosted a successful event focused on the impact of trailblazers in the community. Held on August 27, 2023, at the University of Winnipeg, Bulman Centre, the event aimed to inspire the next generation of Philippine leaders to shape the future of their community.

Sen. Gigi Osler, the pioneering Filipina-Canadian elected to the Senate, graced the event and shared her journey as a trailblazing figure leading change across healthcare, academia,

Flordeliz (Gigi) Osler, a globally recognized surgeon and advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion, served as the event's speaker. Dr. Osler served as a mentor for Filipino and other racialized medical students across Canada and was the first woman surgeon and first racialized woman elected President of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA), where she led the development of the CMA's inaugural policy on equity and diversity.

The event sponsors, UWSA and Tito Boy Restaurant were acknowledged for their steadfast support and hospitality.

The MFBC and Kultivation Festival extend their heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, sponsors, and Sen. Gigi Osler for making the event a success.

Photos by Ron Cantiveros | Filipino Journal

schedule

Kid’s Day

Breaking the Ice: Filipino-Canadian Sisters to Represent the Philippines in UAE Hockey Tournament

Winnipeg siblings, Hanna and Larissa Pagdato, have dreamt of playing hockey internationally since they were kids, and that dream is about to become a reality. The sisters are set to represent the Philippine national women's hockey team in the United Arab Emirates next month.

Hanna, who is currently a goaltender for the Mount Allison University Mounties in New Brunswick, was inspired by the Canadian women's team victory at the 2010 Winter Olympics when she was just eight years old. For her, representing the Philippines is an opportunity to connect with her heritage and make her parents and the Filipino community in Canada proud.

Larissa, a former junior hockey player and coach of the True North Foundation’s U13 girls’ team, shares the same enthusiasm. Their father, Larry Pagdato, a lifelong Winnipeg

Hanna Larissa

Jordy

Photos provided by: Larry Pagdato

"Sharing hope together:" ANCOP Walk celebrates its 20th year

The 20th year of ANCOP (Answer the Cry of the Poor) WALK illuminated 16 locations across Canada this August, uniting communities in support of those less fortunate. In Winnipeg, a powerful testament to compassion unfolded as over 600 participants gathered on August 26 at Assiniboine Park for the annual walk. Its global founder Couples for Christ and biggest supporter in Winnipeg, Vickar Auto Group, led by its owner Mr. Larry Vickar were of course present at the event.

Expressing his elation, Larry Vickar shared, "It is so wonderful! The Vickar Auto Group, myself, and Tova are so happy to have these over 600 like-minded and like-hearted people helping the less fortunate kababayan in whatever way we can. It's a humanitarian thing. Thank you all for your support."

Vickar's opening words highlighted the theme of "sharing hope together," resonating with ANCOP's initiatives that his family and busines have been actively involved in. He emphasized the profound significance of collective hope-building, stating, "Hope is a huge word, and we all need hope for a better tomorrow, a better today, and together we could build that hope."

The event witnessed promising announcements from community

leaders and performers, Paul Ong and Dr. Tricia Magsino-Barnabe. Dr. Barnabe shared plans for a dental/optical/vision mission in the Philippines through ANCOP in February 2024, while Ong revealed ANCOP as the chosen beneficiary of his annual charity concert happening in November.

The pinnacle of the ANCOP WALK was a heartfelt gesture, as Vickar Auto Group presented a generous donation of $25,000 through a symbolic cheque, strengthening the spirit of unity and compassion that defines this benevolent cause.

Jets fan, instilled a love for hockey in his daughters, which they carried into their adult lives.

The opportunity to join Team Philippines for the Union Tournament in September came as a surprise to Larissa, but both sisters are ready to embark on a 14-hour flight and meet their new teammates just days before the tournament begins. Because hockey is still a developing sport in the Philippines, the players have to fund their own travel expenses. However, local businesses like Triple C Pizzeria and RINK Hockey have generously offered to help cover the costs.

Larry Pagdato is hopeful that his daughters' participation in the tournament will inspire other aspiring Filipino hockey players and strengthen the sport's popularity within the local community.

The sisters, along with fellow Winnipeg native Jordy Wyant, a former teammate of Hanna's, are determined to make a mark in the event taking place just outside Dubai from September 5-9. Despite the challenges, they are grateful for the support they have received and are excited to represent their country and community on the international stage.

Photos by Ron Cantiveros | Filipino Journal

Ultimate New Wave Evolution

(& closely related styles) part 44

Sa Úgoy ng Músika

In the 1990s, what continued the musical ethos of New Wave were interrelated styles like Britpop, Alternative Rock, Indie Pop, and Shoegaze. By the turn of the new decade, moreover, the broad spectrum has further evolved and branched out into yet newer subgenres.

The following albums--while still carrying the Alternative Rock / New Wave genes--have been more popularly described as Indie Rock or PostPunk Revival, the standout characteristic of which was the slightly noisier

guitars; in effect, an edgier kind of Guitar Pop. Whatever the case may be, for simplicity's sake, I still lump them under the umbrella of New Wave.

* Coldplay - Parachutes (2000) ("Yellow")

* Fine China - When the World Sings (2000) ("For All Centuries")

* The Strokes - Is This It? (2001) ("Someday")

* The Libertines - Up the Bracket (2002) ("Time for Heroes")

* British Sea Power - The Decline of British Sea Power (2003) ("Remember Me")

* The Killers - Hot Fuss (2004) ("Mr. Brightside")

* The Bravery - The Bravery (2005) ("An Honest Mistake")

* Nightmare of You - Nightmare of You (2005) ("The Days Go By Oh So Slow")

(Crossword) PALAISIPAN

22. Termino sa hatian

23. Kabyawan

28. Usli ang dibdib

29. Mama

32. Kulay ng kalawakan

1. Gusto

2. Aktuwal

3. Pangalang lalake

4. Yapos

6. Pagkakakilanlan

19. Alyas ni Lisa

20. Malapad

21. Walang asawa

24. Pagkalito

25. Nilinis ng bagyo

Sudoku Puzzles are games of patience, numbers and genius! The satisfaction of solving a challenging Sudoku Puzzle is one of the greatest accomplishments any sudoku game player can experience. Here is the puzzle. Good luck!

Solutions for Palaisipan & Sudoku will be posted online www.FilipinoJournal.com

16. Natupad na

17. Kunat

18. Gapangan ng halaman

ng baril

33. Payung-payungan

34. Litrato

36. Sirang pagkain

37. palayaw ni Dominador

38. Ingkong

You have a lot of big dreams about your relationships when the moon in Aquarius opposes Venus in Leo on Tuesday. However, it’s important to be cautiously optimistic and not put too much pressure on something new. Fan the flames without letting the fire burn out, Aries.

Yikes, Taurus! There’s a strong possibility of a family feud when the moon in Aquarius opposes Venus in Leo on Tuesday. You have big dreams for yourself, but you might not get the approval of your loved ones to move forward. Decide what’s more important: their blessing or your dreams.

You’re starting the week feeling a little distant from loved ones when the moon in Aquarius opposes Venus in Leo on Tuesday. Remember to talk things out to bridge the divide and get back on the same page again.

7. Kipot

8. Ipatong

9. Ibanig

11. Napigtas

13. Kostumbre

17. Naglipana

26. Puwersang pantubig

27. Litid

30. Duwende

31. Tsok

35. Termino sa boksing

Copyright @ horoscope.com

Your relationships could start to get a little too intense for you when the moon in Aquarius opposes Venus in Leo on Tuesday. Everything feels like it’s moving too quickly. Try to pump the brakes before the fire burns out of control, Cancer.

Other people’s emotions might weigh you down when the moon in Aquarius opposes Venus in your sign on Tuesday. You’re trying to start your own projects, but you feel like you’re chained down by the desires of others. Remember to balance being true to yourself with being mindful.

Start the week on a healing note when the moon in Aquarius opposes Venus in Leo on Tuesday. This aspect encourages you to start taking care of your emotional well-being.

Remember to form a solid relationship with yourself so you can understand your desires.

There could be trouble in paradise when the moon in Aquarius opposes Venus in Leo on Tuesday. The grass always looks greener on the other side of the fence. Don’t get so entangled in what you “think” you want that you lose what you already have, Libra.

The week starts on a rocky note when the moon in Aquarius opposes Venus in Leo on Tuesday. This aspect could give you some trust issues, and you might have a hard time knowing who is friend or foe. You might have to make some messy choices as your emotional stability is rocked.

Your heart and mind are in a battle for domination when the moon in Aquarius opposes Venus in Leo on Tuesday. You want to view emotions and relationships from a logical point of view. However, sometimes you have to get a little messy for big feelings to grow.

You’re not in a “sharing is caring” mood when the moon in Aquarius opposes Venus in Leo on Tuesday. You’re willing to take what you want, but be careful. It could hurt your relationship with others. Try to be a team player, Capricorn.

Your relationship could be put on the back burner in favor of your own emotional needs when the moon in your sign opposes Venus in Leo on Tuesday. This isn’t a good day to make plans because you’ll be more in your feelings and less likely to want to deal with anyone. Self-care day!

You’re starting the week by getting a little too into your feelings when the moon in Aquarius opposes Venus in Leo on Tuesday. Don’t be afraid to sit with your feelings and figure them out before expressing yourself. Coming in hot might not be productive in getting to the core of your issues.

QCPD Chief Resigns After Controversial Press Briefing; Road Rage Suspect Loses SC Job

Quezon City Police District (QCPD) Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III submitted his courtesy resignation on Wednesday following criticism for organizing an "inappropriate" press briefing for road rage suspect Wilfredo Gonzales. This resignation came after the Supreme Court dismissed Gonzales as a co-terminus employee of an associate justice due to his involvement in the road rage incident.

The Supreme Court's Public Information Office confirmed that Gonzales, a former Quezon City policeman, was dismissed from his assignment under Associate Justice Ricardo Rosario, who denounced violence and abusive behavior. The court stated that Gonzales was fired on the same day Torre presented him to the media.

Torre expressed regret for the press briefing, stating it was made hastily and without proper consideration. He apologized to the public for his actions and said that his resignation aimed to spare the

Philippine National Police (PNP) from controversy.

During a subsequent House hearing, Torre admitted his mistake in holding the press briefing without the presence of the other party involved. He submitted video footage of the incident to aid in determining the truth. Torre also sought the revocation of Gonzales's firearms licenses and permit to carry outside of residence.

PNP chief Gen. Benjamin

IACAT Temporarily Suspends Controversial Departure Guidelines Amid Public Outcry

Acorda Jr. said he had yet to decide on Torre's resignation and would review it in consultation with relevant officials. Acorda stressed that the police do not condone such actions and are committed to investigating any lapses and misconduct.

In response to Torre's resignation, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte commended his sense of propriety and emphasized the ongoing commitment to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice and accountability in the matter.

40 Municipalities in Bicol Region

Identified as Concern Areas for Upcoming Barangay and SK Elections

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Bicol has highlighted 40 municipalities in the region as areas of immediate concern for the forthcoming Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE). Among these, 10 municipalities fall under the red category, indicating "grave concern" due to the potential for violence. These are in Masbate (4 towns), Albay (3), Camarines Norte (2), and Camarines Sur (1).

The red category is assigned when two of the following elements are present: intense political rivalry, presence of communist terrorist groups, and presence of political armed groups.

Additionally, 10 municipalities are designated under the orange category, signaling "immediate concern" due to the presence of armed groups. These are in Masbate (15 towns), Catanduanes (6), Albay (3), Camarines Norte (3), and Camarines Sur (3).

Areas with a history of political unrest are categorized as code yellow, while those without concerns are classified as code green.

The Comelec has requested the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the

Philippines to assess recent killings in Libon, Albay, to determine if the town should be placed under Comelec control. Such control entails a gun ban, strict enforcement of Comelec rules, possible law enforcement reshuffle, and potential regulation of local government operations.

The Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) has halted the implementation of its revised departure formalities guidelines following backlash from the public and elected officials. The Department of Justice (DOJ), which oversees IACAT, clarified that the revisions were intended to improve the departure process for travelers and not to burden them.

The new guidelines, criticized for imposing stricter travel requirements on Filipinos, raised concerns about prolonged questioning by immigration officers and airport staff. DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla emphasized the need for

clarification and dialogue with senators and the public.

The Senate passed two resolutions to suspend the revised rules, previously set to be enforced from September 3. Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri was authorized to seek a temporary restraining order from the Supreme Court if necessary, citing potential violations of Filipinos' constitutional right to travel.

The DOJ reaffirmed its commitment to balancing national security and smooth travel, assuring the public that existing laws and regulations would remain in effect during the temporary suspension.

Photo credit: Phil. Daily Inquirer

photo credit: Gerard Carreon/Rappler

Julie Anne San Jose and Rayver Cruz wow record-breaking crowd in "Taste of Manila Toronto 2023."

Filipino culture and talent shone brighter than ever at the 10th anniversary celebration of Taste of Manila 2023, the largest Filipino festival outside the Philippines. With an opening day that drew a crowd of more than 500,000 attendees, this year’s event was made more special by the electrifying performances of Asia’s Multimedia Star Julie Anne San Jose and Kapuso Total Heartthrob Rayver Cruz.GMA Network’s flagship international channel GMA Pinoy TV proudly partnered with the Society of Philippine Artists, Recreation, and Community (SPARC) to present the iconic Filipino street festival. The festival, which coincided with GMA Pinoy TV’s 18th anniversary, was held last August 19 and 20.

Julie Anne, making her debut appearance in Canada, left the audience awe-inspired with her masterful renditions of “Bang Bang” and “I’ll Be There.” Rayver, on the other hand, captivated the crowd with his dance performance on the hit songs “Treasure” and “Until I Found You.” The highlight of the evening was their enchanting duet of “Pag-ibig na Kaya.”

Beyond their performances, Julie Anne and Rayver extended their appreciation to their dedicated fans with an exclusive meet and greet, where select VIP guests and Jungo Pinoy subscribers had the privilege of meeting the stars up close.

During the two-day festival, Pinoys and non-Pinoys alike were united in vibrant festivities that showcased the rich Filipino culture through music, dance, and delectable cuisine. The event stood as a true embodiment of Filipino pride.

"Nakapag-reinstall na ba lahat?" - Vice Ganda's Mysterious Tweet Fuels Rumors

TV host-comedian Vice Ganda caused a stir with a short yet intriguing post on X (formerly Twitter) last Sunday, August 27, 2023. This came after the announcement of Vice Ganda as the new brand ambassador for the online shopping platform Shopee.

In his tweet, Vice wrote, "Nakapag-reinstall na ba lahat? Happy Sunday! [orange heart emojis]." The tweet garnered various reactions, with some netizens interpreting it as a subtle dig at TV host-actress Toni Gonzaga, who was a former brand ambassador for the same shopping app.

Back in September 2022, "Bye Shopee" trended on social media following criticism of Toni's endorsement due to her strong support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Toni's endorsement stirred controversy as some netizens politicized her choice, given her support for a different candidate in the previous

‘Unbreak My Heart’ unfolds new chapter

election. Rumors about the company's alleged employee layoffs to afford Toni's significant talent fee further fueled the outrage.

Many netizens uninstalled the Shopee app in response, while others reinstated it after Toni's departure as

Can you fully trust someone again after being betrayed?

After weeks of surprising plot twists and emotional revelations, GMA Network, ABS-CBN Corporation, and Viu’s romantic-drama series “Unbreak My Heart” unfolded its new chapter last August 28.

Top-billed by Joshua Garcia, Gabbi Garcia, Richard Yap, and Jodi Sta. Maria, the intriguing series revolves around a forbidden love that may break the hearts of those they hold dear. It also stars industry veterans Laurice Guillen, Eula Valdes, Sunshine Cruz, Nikki Valdez, Romnick Sarmenta, and Victor Neri, with Maey Bautista, Dionne Monsanto, Mark Rivera, PJ Endrinal, and Marvin Yap, and up-and-coming young actors Will Ashley, Bianca de Vera, and Jeremiah Lisbo.

In the previous episode, the revelation of Rose’s (Jodi) history with Renz (Joshua) changes the course of Rose’s life forever. Alex’s (Gabbi) vengeance is irreversible. She does not stop at exposing her mother’s affair at her own wedding. She vows to give her back the pain and triple it by sabotaging her career, her whole life, and those around her.

Rose gets desperate to earn Alex’s forgiveness, driven by her determination to keep her from being consumed by anger and hatred. However, Renz stands in

her way. Her attempts to reach out to Alex are hindered by Renz’s growing obsession and scheming to stay in their lives. This pushes Alex to the edge.

Matt (Richard) helps his daughter get back on her feet and start over. Rose’s concern and need to fix her daughter’s life intensifies. Unknown to them, life has played a shocking twist of fate on Alex that will connect her once more with Renz but Rose can see right through him and his motives.

How will Rose save her daughter from a manipulative man? Will a mother lead her daughter out of a deceptive love, even if the only way to do it involves causing her yet another pain?

Don’t miss the intense Season 2 of “Unbreak My Heart” – under the helm of directors, Emmanuel Q. Palo and Dolly Dulu, and produced by Dreamscape Entertainment. It airs Mondays to Thursdays at 9:35 PM on GMA Telebabad, Pinoy Hits, and I Heart Movies; and 11:25 PM on GTV. Unbreak My Heart is also streaming on GMANetwork. com, iWantTFC, and Viu. The series is also available on GMA Pinoy TV and TFC.

ambassador. Comments from users expressed relief and excitement about the change in ambassadorship. As of now, neither Shopee nor Vice has released an official statement regarding the matter.

Beloved GMA Network pillar Mike Enriquez has passed away at the age of 71. The veteran broadcaster was a prominent figure, anchoring GMA's flagship newscast "24 Oras" and hosting the long-running program "Imbestigador." He held roles as President of RGMA Network, Inc. and GMA Network's Senior Vice President and Consultant for Radio Operations. A statement from GMA Network expressed profound sadness and hailed Enriquez's 54-year dedication to the Filipino audience. He received numerous accolades, including awards for his work in both radio and television. Notably, he won the Most Outstanding Male News Anchor award for four consecutive years at the Gawad

Lasallianeta Awards. Despite health challenges, he remained dedicated to his profession and expressed his gratitude for returning to work in time for the 2022 election coverage.

Photo credit: Philstar.com / Jan Milo Severo

Exploring Paris: Champs-Elysees & Arc De Triomphe

for coffee is 2.48 euros; cappuccino is 4.51 euros.

by Gem and Lita Anis

Paris's symbol is without doubt the Eiffel Tower;, however, not to be missed when visiting the French capital is the Champs-Elysees, Paris's most famous thoroughfare and commonly regarded as the "most beautiful avenue in the whole world". The vast avenue, 1.9 kms. (1.2 miles) long and 70 metres (230 feet) wide was originally a swamp land. After its reclamation it was designed as a wide avenue originally called "Grand Cours" and later became the ChampsElysees in 1709.

The tree-lined boulevard used to be the most fashionable meeting place and upper-class residential area in all Paris. Today, it is the busiest section of the capital city always full of Parisian locals and tourists frequenting luxurious shops, theatres, cafes and restaurants, and airline offices. Here you can be a living part of it - enjoying coffee especially at the Cafe de Paris and watch the world go by. The average price

A very famous place located at 13 Rue de L'Ancienne Comedie is the "Le Procope", the oldest cafe in Champs-Elysees that opened its doors in 1689. It used to be the favourite cafe for French artists, intellectuals and politicians - frequented by Voltaire, Rousseau and Diderot. Some state that it is the first cafe in the whole world. The cafe is famous for a special three-course meal called "Philosopher's Menu" and also for French special delicacies such as snails (escargots), oysters and frog legs. As of now, France remains as the world's number one consumers of snails.

For tourists and locals, shopping is the main attraction in ChampsElysees. You have a choice from Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Channel, and

Christian Dior to Nina Ricci, Pierre Herme, Levis, Nike, Lacoste. Hugo Boss, or Sephora Zara that have established their flagship shops in the busy avenue.

At the end of Champs-Elysees is the large square known as 'Place Charles de Gaulle" with twelve (12) main arteries (avenues) radiating outwards from the square. Isolated in the centre stands the powerful and imposing "Arc de Triomphe", 164 feet high and 147 feet wide built and completed in 1836 to honor the battle victories of Napoleon Bonaparte, the brilliant French general who led the French army and won many wars. Inscribed on the inner and outer surfaces of the arc are the names of all French victories and generals who fought and died for France during the French Revolution and the Napoleonic wars.

Under the vault of the arc lies the "Tomb of the Unknown Soldier" holding an unidentified number of the French armed forces killed during the First World War. Surrounded by black metal posts, the burial site consists of a slab of granite on which is inscribed the epitaph: 'Here rests a French soldier who died for the Fatherland, 1914-1918". Rekindled every day at 6:30 PM is an eternal flame at the tomb. You could see also a bronze shield embellished with a sword engulfed in flame at the foot of the burial site. Going up the Arc de Triomphe gives you a bird's-eyeview of the city's most celebrated streets and a lovely panorama of Paris.

Next, we'll see you at Sacre-Coeur and Notre-Dame.

Gem & Lita at Champs-Elysees

Gem & Lita at Cafe de Paris

Arc de Triomphe