DOE Briefs JCPC on Revised Rules on Financial Benefits to Power Plant Host Communities

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi led the energy family today in briefing the Joint Congressional Power Commission on the revised rules on the financial benefits to the communities hosting the country’s power plants, legally known as Energy Regulation No. 1-94 (ER 1-94).

"It is our duty to serve our people to the best of our abilities. Thus, we recently issued a Department Circular to enhance the ER 1-94 Program and maximize its benefits to host communities," Sec. Cusi said.

Under the ER 1-94 Program, communities hosting power generation facilities or energy resources are entitled to one centavo per kilowatt-hour (P0.01/kWh) of the total electricity sales of Generation Companies or Energy Resource Developers.

According to the Energy chief, one of the major changes introduced is the direct remittance of financial benefits to host communities for their immediate utilization. Streamlining the release of funding will eliminate the bureaucratic process which hampers socio-economic development of the communities hosting the power plants.

After conducting nationwide public consultations to solicit the inputs and comments of key energy stakeholders, Sec. Cusi signed Department Circular No. DC 2008-08-0021, amending Rule 29(A) of the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 9136 or the EPIRA on 26 July 2018.

Sec. Cusi further emphasized, "It is high time that the Program is revised. The modifications we are introducing will support the government's Total Electrification Program to energize unserved and underserved areas. We want the host communities to immediately reap the benefits of hosting our power generation facilities."

The DOE is continuously working with all energy stakeholders to further improve the ER1-94 Program. Guidelines for the implementation of the Department Circular will be issued within 60 days, to be followed by information, education and communication campaigns to inform the public.

Cusi Orders Importation of Low-Cost Oil to Help Arrest Inflation

Wazzup Pilipinas!


Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi takes steps to address slowing growth and high commodity prices by tapping the Philippine National Oil Company-Exploration Corporation (PNOC-EC) to import low-priced fuel.

PNOC-EC acquired in December last year, a trading function to generate added income for the government.

"PNOC-EC will source low-priced petroleum products particularly diesel, to mitigate the impact of volatile oil prices," Sec. Cusi said.

The measure is expected to have a ripple effect on taming the prices of basic commodities, thus controlling inflation. The resulting price relief would ease the plight of consumers.

Under the project, the trading function of PNOC-EC will be employed in the acquisition of low-priced fuel which will mainly come from state deals.

The PNOC-EC Board chaired by the Energy Chief is drafting the trading procedure and policy safeguards for the public on the proposed importation.

The products bought at a special price will be made available to dealers, operators and independent petroleum players under a Memorandum of Agreement.



EURO-II COMPLIANT DIESEL
The Department of Energy (DOE) also issued a Memorandum Order requiring oil companies to provide Euro-II compliant automotive diesel oil to help reduce fuel prices.

"Pursuant to existing Philippine National Standards on Diesel Fuel Quality and in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act 8479, otherwise known as the Downstream Oil Deregulation Law, Republic Act 8749, otherwise known as the Philippine Clean Air Act and for the purpose of reducing the impact of rising petroleum prices in the world market, all industry players are hereby directed to provide at the retail level Euro-II compliant automative diesel oil as a fuel option for the transport and industrial customers," the Memorandum Order stated.

It also directed oil companies offering Euro-II compliant diesel to submit a monthly compliance report, indicating the list of participating retail outlets.

According to Sec. Cusi, the sale of said diesel will be subjected to close monitoring by the DOE.

Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino 2018 Features Quality Genre Films Nationwide

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Eight incredible films have been selected by the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) for the Pista ng Pelikulang Pilipino (PPP), a one-week exclusive screening of films in all theaters nationwide. Catch the films and its stars during the biggest pre-event - the PPP Grand Fans Day and All-Star Parade on August 11 at the Quezon City Memorial Circle from 10 AM onwards, open to the public and free admission. 

The 2018 lineup which will be screened in all cinemas nationwide on August 15-21, 2018 offers a diverse set of films which pushes the envelope of the movie genres that Filipinos grew to love. These films are “Ang Babaeng Allergic Sa Wifi” directed by Jun Robles Lana under The IdeaFirst Company, “Bakwit Boys” directed by Jason Paul Laxamana under T. Rex Entertainment, “Madilim Ang Gabi” directed by Adolf Alix Jr., under Deus Lux Mea Films, “Pinay Beauty” directed by Jay Abello under Quantum Films and Epic Media, “Signal Rock” directed by Chito Roño under Cape Signal Rock (CSR) Films PH, “The Day After Valentine’s” directed by Jason Paul Laxamana under Viva Films, “Unli Life directed by Miko Livelo under Regal Entertianment Inc. and “We Will Not DieTonight” directed by Richard Somes under Strawdogs Studio Production.

  

In addition to the main entries, the PPP Special Feature Section will be featured which showcases the outstanding Filipino independent films which gained numerous awards from prestigious award-giving bodies as featured in independent local film festivals. Balanginga: Howling Wilderness directed by Khavn (QCinema 2017), Gusto Kita with all my Hypothalamus directed by Dwein Baltazar (Cine Filipino 2018) , High Tide directed by Tara Illenberger (ToFarm 2017), Kiko Boksingero directed by Thop Nazareno (Cinemalaya 2017), Paki directed by GianCarlo Abrahan (Cinemaone Originials 2017) and Tu Pug Imatuy directed by Arnel Barbarona (Sinag Maynila 2017) are all to be screened in SM Mall of Asia, SM Megamall, SM Manila, SM Sta. Mesa, SM North EDSA, SM Fairview, Robinsons Galleria, and Gateway cinemas along with the PPP’s main entries. 

Short films will also be featured in PPP through Sine Kabataan Short Film Competition which will be paired with the PPP full feature entries. Proudly presented by Official Ambassador Sine Kabataan, Mr. Ice Seguerra, the films include “Alas-Nuebe ng Tanghali” directed by Enalyn Legaspi,”Anonymous Student Vlog” directed by Christian Babista, “Bahay-bahayan” directed by Bryan Spencer Reyes, “Bato Bato Pik” directed by Ardinian Jaq Sanque and Lorys Plaza, “Isang Tula para sa Nawawala” directed by Rodemille Singh, “Koleksyong Pamalo” directed by Len Frago, “Masaya Ako” directed by Daniel Edwin Delgado and Tiara Angelia Nicolas, and “Runner” directed by Levi Jun Miscala.

Now on its second year, PPP showcases quality genre films for its audience and FDCP aims to further maximize this time to holistically conduct a series of events and forms of support for Filipino films, from celebratory fiestas for the public to educational fora and conferences for film industry professionals. 

PPP runs from August 15-21, 2018 in all cinemas nationwide and is presented in partnership with National Cinemas Association of the Philippines (NCAP), Unicef, Globe Play It Right, SOLAR Entertainment Corporation, Outpost Visual Frontier, Nestle, Camella Condo Homes, ThinkBit, Sequioa Hotel. It is also supported by the Society of Philippine Entertainment Editors (SPEED), CNN Philippines, PEP.ph, MOR 101.9 For Life, The Manila Bulletin, Malaya, Philippine Star, Wish 107.5, Push.com, Uniquely Pinoy, Adobo Magazine, FILCASPRO and Inquirer.net as well as by the following government agency partners, Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), National Commission on Culture and Arts (NCCA), Department of Transportation (DOTr), National Youth Commission (NYC), Office of the Vice Mayor Quezon City (OVM) and Quezon City Film Development Commission (QCFDC).

  

PPP Entries

Ang Babaeng Allergic sa WIFI

Genre:                 Romantic Comedy

Writer:                 Jun Robles Lana

Director:              Jun Robles Lana

Cast:                    Sue Ramirez, Markus Paterson and Jameson Blake

A girl develops an allergy to Wi-Fi and is forced to live in a remote province, pushing her to reevaluate her relationships and the boy she believes is her one true love.

Bakwit Boys

Genre:                 Musical Romance

Writer:                 Jason Paul Laxamana

Director:              Jason Paul Laxamana

Cast:                   Vance Larena, Nikko Natividad, Ryle Santiago and Mackie Empuerto

Four brothers known as the Bakwit Boys get a shot at their dreams when a rich city girl discovers their music talent.

Madilim ang Gabi

Genre:                 Suspense Political Thriller

Writer:             Adolfo Alix Jr.

Director:              Adolfo Alix Jr.

Cast:                   Gina Alajar, Philip Salvador and Felix Roco

A couple is caught up in drug war when their son goes missing.

Pinay Beauty

Genre:                 Comedy

Writer:             Allan Habon and Rod Marmol

Director:              Jay Abello

Cast:                   Chai Fonacier and Edgar Allan Guzman

Pinay Beauty is about the perennial quest of a typical Filipina to look Caucasian and the cost they entail.

Signal Rock

Genre:                 Drama

Writer:                 Rody Vera

Director:              Chito Rono

Cast:                   Christian Bables, Francis Magundayao, Elora Espano and Mon Confiado

Intoy, a carefree no-hoper in a small town decides to help his sister in Finland win a child custody battle.

The Day After Valentines

Genre:                 Romance Drama

Writer:             Jason Paul Laxamana

Director:              Jason Paul Laxamana

Cast:                   Bella Padilla and JC Santos

A distraught man named Kai meets Lani, a woman who helps him mend his brokenness and soon tags her as his “Ms. Repairman.”

Unli Life

Genre:                 Comedy

Writer:             Ferdinand Aguas and Jan Freud Gallon

Director:              Miko Livelo

Cast:                   Vhong Navarro, Joey Marquez, Winwyn Marquez and Ejay Falcon

Benedict, a famous podcast DJ is given several chances to travel back in time to change events that affects his lovelife whenever he drinks ‘wishky’ in a bar called “Turning Point.”

We Will Not Die Tonight

Genre:                 High Octane Action-Thriller

Writer:             Richard V. Somes and Eloisa Francia

Director:              Richard V. Somes

Cast:                   Erich Gonzales and Alex Medina

Kray is a stuntwoman, an aspiring actress and an all-around racketeer who can’t seem to get a break. A botched deal gone into a total haywire will challenge her principles and skillset.

Special Feature Entries

Balanginga: Howling Wilderness (QCinema 2017)Writer: Khavn, Achinette Villamor and Jerry B. Gracio
Director: Khavn
Cast: Justine Samson, Pio Del Rio, Warren Tuaño

1901, Balangiga. Eight-year-old Kulas flees town with his grandfather and their carabao to escape General Smith’s “Kill & Burn” order. He finds an infant amid a sea of corpses and together, the two boys struggle to survive the American occupation.

Gusto Kita with All My Hypothalamus  (CineFilipino Film Festival 2018)Writer: Dwein Baltazar
Director: Dwein Baltazar
Cast: Iana Bernardez, Nicco Manalo, Dylan Ray Talon, Soliman Cruz, Anthony Falcon

Writer/director Dwein Baltazar takes us to one of Manila's smoky avenues, and sinks us in a compelling observation on desire following four men yearning for one enigmatic woman.
High Tide (ToFarm Film Festival 2017)Writer: Tara Illenberger
Director: Tara Illenberger
Starring: Arthur Solinap, Sunshine Teodoro, Dalin Sarmiento, Forrest Kyle Buscato, Christine Mary Demaisip, Riena Christal Shin

High Tide dives into how climate change, particularly rising sea levels impact the locals of coastal villages. At its core is the story of a young boy that is left an orphan, and as an effect of a massive typhoon, he loses his ability to speak.
Kiko Boksingero (Cinemalaya 2017)
Writer: Emmanuel Espejo Jr., Ash Malanum, Denise O’Hara
Director: Thop Nazareno
Starring: Noel Comia Jr., Yayo Aguila, Angel Aquino, Denise Soliva, William Buenavente at JM Canlas

Kikko Boksingero tells story of a child who was under custody of her Nanny Diday (Yayo) while the relatives are leaving on states. Kiko’s mother died while he is unfamiliar with his father. George (Yul Servo) returned, he tried to reestablish relationship with his son Kikko with boxing.
Paki (Cinema One Originals 2017)Writer: Giancarlo Abrahan
Director: Giancarlo Abrahan
Starring: Dexter Doria, Eula Valdez, Ricky Davao, Shamaine Buencamino, Paolo Paraiso, Ina Feleo, Noel Trinidad

Paki is a portrait of the modern Filipino family, and follows a 80-year old woman who decides that she will be an old maid. As the woman tries to leave her husband for sixty years, their children forbid their parents to separate to keep their long-lasting bond alive.
Tu Pug Imatuy (Sinag Maynila 2017)
Writer: Arnel Mardoquio
Director: Arnel Barbarona
Starring: Malona Sulatan, Jong Monzon, Luis Georlin Banaag III, Jamee Rivera, Jillian Khayle Barbarona, Henyo Ehem

Tu Pug Imatuy, which means "The right to kill" in Manobo, follows Lumad couple Obunay and Dawin who are uprooted from their traditional way of life after a military encounter. Soon, they find themselves unwilling instruments in the soldiers' anti-guerilla operations. What will it take for them to reunite with their family? Inspired by actual events, the film tackles the Manobos' struggles against environment plunder and the militarization of their communities.  

Sine Kabataan Entries

Alas-Nuebe ng Tanghali

Directed by: Enalyn Legaspi

Three children were about to change their lives after a police officer caught them inhaling a rugby.

Anonymous Student Vlog

Directed by Christian A. Babista

A young girl accidentally witnessed a crime while filming her vlog.

Bahay-bahayan

Directed by Bryan Spencer Reyes

A young girl who dreams of becoming a mother suddenly becomes one when a baby is left at her doorstep.

Bato Bato Pick

Directed by Ardinian Jaq Sanque and Lorys Plaza

Unwanted pregnancy has caught a young couple in the midst of turmoil.

Isang Tula para sa Nawawala

Directed by Rodemille Singh

A young man finds himself searching for his mother in Hong Kong bringing with him the hope of seeing her again after ten years.

Koleksyong Pamalo

Directed by Len Frago

A boy collects all stuff used by his mother to beat him for disciplinary sanctions.

Masaya ako

Directed by Daniel Edwin Delgado and Tiara Angelica Nicolas

A boy faces many challenges in his life - separation of parents, unfaithful love and bullying. Until when will he keep on smiling?

Runner

Directed by: Levi Jun Miscala

A boy wants to continue his secondary education by becoming an athlete but his inauspicious boss obstructed this aspiration.

PISTA NG PELIKULANG PILIPINO UPCOMING EVENTS:

Pista at the Park Frand Fans Day and All-Star Parade (FREE ADMISSION)August 11, 2018, 10AM
Liwasang Aurora, Quezon Memorial Circle
Parade:2PM from MTRCB Building at Timog to Quezon Memorial Circle

PPP Opening NIghtAugust 14, 2018, 7PM
Samsung Hall, SM Aura
 
Announcement of Partnership with the Busan International Film Festival and Asian Film Market 2018August 17, 2018, 4:30 PM-4:45 PM 
Novotel Araneta Center
 
Announcement of Partnership with the Singapore Media Festival 2018August 18, 5:00 PM-5:15 PM 
Novotel Araneta Center

Rockford Productions Presents Far From Perfect: Truefaith’s Senti 25, The Silver Anniversary Show

Wazzup Pilipinas!

This year marks the country’s top pop band, Truefaith’s 25th year in the business.

To celebrate this milestone, an anniversary show is scheduled on October 25 at the Music Museum aptly titled “Far From Perfect: Truefaith’s Senti 25, The Silver Anniversary Show.” The concert promises to be an engaging night of Truefaith’s exquisite brand of OPM plus some surprises including very special guests (which will be announced soon.)

Truefaith has won several accolades including MTV Philippines’ Video of the Year 2001 for the music video of the song, “Awit Para Sa Kanya” and a bunch of Awit Awards. In fact they are nominated again in this year’s upcoming Awit awards in the category of Best Group for the song, “Cool Lang” from the just-released 10th album, “Sentimental.” “Sentimental” is a collection of new material that are as good as their past hits, “Perfect,” “Huwag Na Lang Kaya?” “Muntik Nang Maabot Ang Langit,” “Kung OK Lang Sa ‘Yo” and “Dahil Ikaw.” Their latest single, “Kahit Na” will have its music video (shot entirely in beautiful Sorsogon) released online soon. It has been a long way since the early days of the band’s original members working at Fullerton Studios in 1992. Now, Medwin Marfil (vocals), Allan Elgar (lead guitar), Macky Macaventa (bass), Eugene Marfil (acoustic guitar), Jake Lumacad (keyboards) and Kaka Quisumbing (drums) are determined more than ever to pursue their musical dreams with a lot of hard work and faith!




There’s just no stopping this phenomenal OPM band from doing what they do best – that is providing their fans with ditties containing well thought of and relatable lyrics blended with heartfelt melodies. For True Faith, they’re still far from being perfect because they still strive for excellence in their craft even after 25 years in the industry. Their passion to create good music is boundless.


Don’t’ miss one of the highly anticipated OPM events of the year… “Far From Perfect: True Faith’s Senti 25, The Silver Anniversary Show.


Tickets will be available thru Ticketworld and Music Museum starting Sept 10.

For ticket inquiries and reservation, log on to Ticketworld or call 09166392291.

Ticket prices are as follows:

VIP ORCHESTRA P1850

CENTER ORCHESTRA P1500

SIDE ORCHESTRA P1000

Balcony P750



Presented by Rockford Productions Inc.

ColorManila’s CM Challenge Run at Clark Was Another Sold-out Success, Now Heads to Davao and Cavite

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Fresh from its sold-out CM Challenge Clark event last weekend, ColorManila, the country’s number one fun-run organizer, will now head to Davao City, for CM Challenge Davao on August 12, 2018, and CM Blacklight Cavite, on August 25, 2018.

CM Challenge Run Davao, which is scheduled for August 12, 2018, will be held at the SM Lanang Premier, its official venue partner. The event is also made possible by Camella and Honda Philippines.

Participants of CM Challenge Davao can choose between 3K, 5K and 10K, and they can look forward to obstacles such as the inflatable slide, inflatable tire skip, military crawl obstacles, among others. Apart from which, runners can listen to the latest music while going through the various challenges.

Runners also have the option of choosing between the Deluxe Kit, or the Rockstar Kit. The Deluxe Kit, which is priced at P599, includes the event shirt, race bib, finisher’s medal, sunglasses, and a color packet. While the Rockstar Kit, priced at P799, includes the event shirt, race bib, finisher’s medal, sunglasses, sling bag, headwear, and a color packet.

After Davao, ColorManila will head next to Cavite on August 25, 2018, for the CM Blacklight Cavite Run, presented by Camella, which will be held at the Vista Mall Daang Hari, Bacoor, Cavite.

The CM Blacklight Run, which is the biggest night run in the country, offers 3 race distances - 3K, 5K and 10K. Runners also have the option of choosing between the Deluxe Kit, and the Rockstar Kit.

The Deluxe Kit, priced at P750, includes the event shirt, race bib, headlamp, finisher’s medal, and a color packet. While the Rockstar Kit, priced at P1,200, comes with the event shirt, race bib, headlamp, finisher’s medal, foldable water bottle, drawstring bag, and a color packet.


The CM Blacklight Cavite Run is made possible by Camella, Vista Mall Daang Hari, Evia Lifestyle Center, official hotel partner Azumi Boutique Hotel, official logistics partner Black Arrow Express, and Toby's SM Molino.

ColorManila VP Justine Cordero says, “Our goal has always been to bring the ColorManila experience to different parts of the country. So we are bringing the CM Challenge Run event to Davao, and the CM Blacklight Run to Cavite in the next few weeks. We hope our followers can join us in these very exciting events, hope to see you there.”


Registration is still ongoing, visit www.colormanila.com and FB/ColorManila for more information.

Catholic Student Councils Ask Senators to End Debate, Pass Bill to End Discrimination vs LGBT

Wazzup Pilipinas!


The LGBT community has found unlikely allies: Catholic students.

Ignoring possible sanctions from their school administrators, student councils from seven of the biggest Catholic schools in Metro Manila released a unified statement expressing support for a proposed bill being tackled in the Senate that seeks to prohibit discrimination on the basis of a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity and expression or SOGIE.

The statement, signed by student councils from the Ateneo de Manila University, University of Santo Tomas, San Beda University-Manila, De La Salle University-Manila, Miriam College, St. Scholastica’s College-Manila, the De La Salle-College of St. Benilde urged the “Senate’s leadership and its members to stop the delay on the SOGIE Equality Bill and move for its approval”.

Senate Bill No. 1271 was sponsored by Sen. Risa Hontiveros last December 14, 2016 but has faced an uphill battle in the upper chamber, unlike in the House of Representatives that approved its version of the bill in September last year.

“In the Senate, It has been scheduled for debate 26 times, making it the longest-running bill under interpellation from Senators Tito Sotto, Manny Pacquiao and Joel Villanueva, since it’s sponsorship close to two years ago”, said the Catholic student councils’ statement.

The student councils expressed concern on discrimination against LGBT persons. “Every day with discrimination, people of diverse SOGIE get thrown out of their schools and homes, outed and ridiculed in the streets, barred from full employment, and deprived of access to healthcare”, their statement read.

The student councils cited their Christian upbringing in pushing for the said bill. “Brought up on the Christian values of love and acceptance, and as leaders and representatives of students in Catholic academic institutions , we urge the Senate’s leadership and its members to stop the delay on the SOGIE Equality Bill and move for its approval”, they urged.

The student council presidents urged the senators to end the debate on the bill. “It is time to end the debate. We must forge a society grounded on equality - NOW”, the student councils concluded. #


FULL STATEMENT:


CATHOLIC SCHOOL STUDENT COUNCILS SUPPORT THE PASSAGE OF THE SOGIE EQUALITY BILL, CALL FOR #ENDTHEDEBATE


A SOCIETY THAT IS EQUAL
We are student government chairpersons from Catholic academic institutions united under the pillars of respect for human diversity, love and equality expressing our support to the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Expression [SOGIE] Equality Bill - an important piece of legislation that secures the rights and welfare of members of the LGBT community through a government policy of non-discrimination and full acceptance.


Every day with discrimination, people of diverse SOGIE get thrown out of their schools and homes, outed and ridiculed in the streets, barred from full employment, and deprived of access to healthcare.


Every day with discrimination, LGBT persons live in constant fear of being stigmatized, harassed and, in many documented cases, killed due to hate.


Every day with discrimination, members of the LGBT community are deprived of the full enjoyment of their rights.


The approval on third and final reading of the SOGIE Equality Bill in the House of Representatives presents a hopeful development. In the Senate, It has been scheduled for debate 26 times, making it the longest-running bill under interpellation from Senators Tito Sotto, Manny Pacquiao and Joel Villanueva, since it’s sponsorship close to two years ago.


It is time to end the debate.


Brought up on the Christian values of love and acceptance, and as leaders and representatives of students in Catholic academic institutions , we urge the Senate’s leadership and its members to stop the delay on the SOGIE Equality Bill and move for its approval.


We must forge a society ground ed on equality - NOW.


Signed:


Reycel Hyacenth Bendaña
President, Sanggunian ng mga Mag-aaral ng Paaralang Loyola ng Ateneo de Manila
Ateneo de Manila University


Mikee De Vega
President, University Student Government
De La Salle University-Manila


Kiko Santos
President, Central Student Council
University of Santo Tomas


Yhan Lumdang
President, Central Student Government
De La Salle - College of St. Benilde


Charlene Yanes
President, Sanggunian ng mga Mag-aaral ng Miriam
Miriam College


Denise Elayda
President, Student Council
St. Scholastica’s College-Manila


Arapat Mustapha
President, San Beda Student Council
San Beda University

EKSTRA: How OFWs Earn Extra Cash to Send Home

Wazzup Pilipinas!

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) are well known multi-taskers, performing several duties at the same time. This delicate balancing act requires not just skills but a deep sense of commitment and focus to make life better for their loved ones.

This perhaps is best illustrated in “Europe”, a short film by BDO Kabayan, about a female impersonator who works in Europe. Inspired by true events, “Europe” shows the great lengths a father will go to in order to provide for his family.

Jacks and Jills of all trades

The story is a familiar one, resonating among the millions of OFWs around the world, wherein many of ourkakabayans resort to accepting odd jobs to earn for their families back home.

Dolores Perez, a registered nurse, discovered a hidden talent that became her source of extra income when she was working in Dubai.

“One time my friend asked if I could give her a massage. After I gave her one, she said I was really good,” recalls Dolores. “So after that, I decided to do massages for a fee on my days off.”

“I chose giving a massage as my sideline because it only lasts for an hour, no more, no less,” Dolores continues. “If a client wants to extend the session, then she must pay extra.”

Having a few practical skills can be quite useful, according to Teddy Santos, Jr., a husband and father of two. Having lived in Italy for the past 18 years, he has gone through many ups and downs when it comes to work. Today, he prefers having several part time jobs over regular work as this set-up pays him more and gives him more flexibility in terms of work hours.

According to Teddy, his regular day consists of working in a pharmacy from 7 to 11 in the morning, doing odd jobs like housekeeping, babysitting, or driving for various clients from 11:30am to 2:30pm, and doing clerical work in a law firm from 3:30pm to 7pm.

“It’s tiring and sometimes the travel time between jobs is challenging,” Teddy admits. "But the work that I do every day pays good money and is enough to support my family.”

Everything for the OFW Family

Indeed, their family’s welfare is the main motivation of OFWs wherever they may be in the world. Making sure that their loved ones back home are well provided for is top priority, no matter how difficult.

“I guess every padre de pamilya would say family comes first above anything else,” Teddy says. “All that they need should be provided by the parents, might it be in the manner of financial or moral support.”

Dondon Mangilog, Jr., a telecom technician in Saudi Arabia, agrees. For the past 15 years, he has been installing TV satellite dishes for private clients after office hours and during weekends. But despite its financial rewards, Dondon admits working extra has its disadvantages.

“Tinitiis ko ang init o lamig sa pag-aakyat sa bubong at hirap sa pag-install at pagbabarena sa dingding (I endure the heat or the cold when I go up on rooftops and the difficulty of drilling walls),” Dondon admits. “Ginagawa ko ito para maitaguyod nang maayos ang pamilya at makapag-ipon para sa magandang kinabukasan. (I do this so I can give the best support for my family and save money for our future.)”

Building the ideal future today

For Dolores, it’s important to teach her children how to prioritize their needs as early as now.

“Tuition fees, books, baon…these are the most important,” says Dolores. “If there’s extra money left, that’s the only time we buy other stuff or go malling.”

Too many sad stories have been told about OFWs not being able to save or losing their money because of uninformed financial decisions.

“You don’t have to be good in Math to manage your income,” Teddy says. “It’s just simple: don’t spend too much above your paygrade.”

For OFWs, it’s also crucial to have a trusted bank that will assist them in making sure their earnings make it to their families back home. BDO Kabayan understands this and commits to providing OFWs with products and services that adapt to their ever-changing needs.

“Having a bank that looks out for me is really helpful,” says Dondon who regularly sends money to the Philippines. “It makes me feel more secure knowing that my family gets the money I worked so hard for.”

The story of “Europe” is a familiar one, resonating among the millions of OFWs around the world. Just like in the story of “Europe”, many of our kababayans resort to accepting odd jobs to earn extra cash for their families back home.

While they find ways to earn for their families back home, BDO finds ways to safeguard their keep and provide innovative options to send this money to their loved ones. The service called Cash Agad for instance was introduced by BDO as a channel for the beneficiaries to withdraw the remittances without the need to go to a bank. Neighborhood establishments like sari-sari stores, water refilling stations, hardware stores, and pawnshops can be their “go-to-bank” as long as these establishments have the Cash Agad terminals. Cash Agad is currently offered in more than 5,000 partners nationwide. For more information, you may visit this link:www.bdo.com.ph/kabayan-remittance-services.

MARINA, PCG Reinforce Partnership, Toughen Enforcement Over Domestic Ships

Wazzup Pilipinas!

The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) reinforce its partnership to toughen the enforcement of maritime rules and regulations over domestic ships plying the Philippine seas.

The strengthening of MARINA-PCG partnership occurred at the two-day calibration workshop held in Manila, from 08 to 09 August 2018. The workshop aimed to synchronize the MARINA’s regulatory functions and PCG’s enforcement functions relative to the rules and regulations in promoting maritime safety and security.

At the calibration workshop, PCG personnel were briefed on various MARINA-issued certifications and/or documents. It also served as an avenue to raise common problems they encountered during inspections, such as the proliferation of fake documents.

MARINA and PCG work hand-in-hand in identifying possible improvements in domestic shipping regulations and in formulating solutions to advance their systems and processes. The calibration workshop was one of the moves in realizing these objectives.

“Ultimately, knowledge-sharing activities like this calibration workshop strengthen the collaboration between MARINA and PCG, as agents of the Philippine maritime industry”, MARINA Deputy Administrator for Operations Nanette Villamor-Dinopol said.

The calibration workshop focused on discussions about ship acquisition and accreditation of domestic shipping entities, ship registration and licensing, ship safety survey and safe manning requirement, implementation of the International Safety Management (ISM), and tonnage measurement, stability and load line survey, assignment, marking and certification.

Other issues including franchising, crew certification and documentation on-board domestic ships, and special permit for Philippine flag ships were also tackled. The PCG, for its part, conducted an actual presentation of its domestic vessels inspection procedure, for MARINA’s guidance.

Dreamscapes of Artist Perfecto Mercado Celebrated in Book, Exhibit

Wazzup Pilipinas!


The 151-page coffee table book on the late Kapampangan artist Perfecto Sablan Mercado, edited by Armando B. Burgos, former professor at the University of the Philippines College of Fine Arts (UPCFA), will be launched on August 25 at the Gateway Gallery, the art museum of Araneta Center.
QUEZON CITY—“It is time,” says art historian and museum curator Gari R. Apolonio on the publication of his book Dreamscapes: The Art of Perfecto Mercado.

The landmark book celebrates the “artistic achievements of a relatively unknown but relentless artist whose talent and body of work deserves exposure and recognition.”

The 151-page coffee table book on the late Kapampangan artist Perfecto Sablan Mercado, edited by Armando B. Burgos, former professor at the University of the Philippines College of Fine Arts (UPCFA), will be launched on August 25 at the Gateway Gallery, the art museum of Araneta Center.

The book launch coincides with the opening of a retrospective exhibit of Mercado’s “dream-making” that spanned 40 years.

Apolonio, a UPCFA alumnus, began working on the book in 2008 when Arnold Mercado, the eldest son of the Tarlac-born Perfecto Mercado, commissioned him “to provide a truthful and accurate documentation” of the life of Mercado and his “intriguing and breathtaking collection of work” that the public hardly saw when his father was still alive.

The growing admiration for Mercado in the art circle came to a halt due to a fatal stroke on March 30, 2011.

It was in the first decade of the twenty-first century that Mercado, born on August 4, 1950, produced his masterpieces, which Apolonio labeled as “Dreamscapes” or works depicting “new representations of landscapes, mindscapes or otherworldly vistas that are strangely familiar and deeply spiritual.”

This series of artworks is rich in colors, camouflages human figures, and connects the viewers to the “experience of the spiritual, the dream-like, and the magical.”

“Borne out of Mercado’s vivid spiritual dreams, the series that exhibits a mature style, deep intent, and technical mastery had a short run due to his passing,” said Apolonio.

He said many people have wondered how impressive his succeeding works could have been if Mercado were alive today.

Mercado did not see to fruition a landmark achievement in his career—his first solo exhibit at a major Philippine museum.

His son Arnold opened the Dreamscapes of Perfecto Mercado exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila in September 2011 with prolific art historian Professor Santiago Albano Pilar as guest of honor.

Pilar then lauded Apolonio for his effort to bring to the public consciousness “underrated and under the radar artists who have immense talent” as it was also his advocacy.

“Art history should serve the needs of unknown yet talented artists like Mercado, who did not finish high school and had no formal studies in art,” said Pilar.

Sustained only by his passion for his art, Mercado was already 25 years old when he switched from painting movie billboards to fine art painting in 1975.

He was on his way to reaching his artistic summit when he passed on, but “his loved ones have made sure his art will be forever remembered through this book,” artist and art critic Cid Reyes wrote in the book’s foreword.

“As the reader turns each page, Apolonio serves as a curator and exhibition guide, enlightening, imparting analysis and drawing conclusions,” Reyes wrote.

“Upon reaching the end of the book, one realizes that, in fact, Apolonio has been a dutiful and sympathetic steward of the artistic legacy of Perfecto Mercado.”

While the book aims to inspire artists to strive for excellence and have unwavering commitment to art, Dreamscapes is also a testament to the struggles and triumphs of Mercado whose artistry was nurtured by a deep faith in God and devotion to family.

The book is published by Arnold Mercado through AT Mercado Publishing with photographs taken by book designer Denes Dasco and additional images by award-winning photographer Ruston P. Banal, both UPCFA alumni.

Dream-inspired works
Apolonio says that Mercado is a dream-inspired artist who painted what he dreamt, much like the weavers of the T'boli community who made weaving patterns out of their dreams.

He says that Mercado’s “innovative and fresh idiom” in his works is valuable for its “distinct style, technical excellence and value-laden intent.”

Lyrical and enigmatic, Mercado’s Dreamscapes represent the apogee of his art, says Apolonio.

“His large-scale Dreamscapes such as The Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil and Third Heaven are “breathtaking and hypnotic with their fine renderings of visual and actual textures, cleverly camouflaged faces and human forms, vividly soft colors and panoramic vistas.”

It is not surprising that Mercado caught the attention of other artists at the group shows he joined, including leading portrait artist Caloy Gabuco who admired the intensity of his brilliant colors and the minimal compositions of his landscapes.

For noted artist and art educator Buds Convocar, past president of the Art Association of the Philippines and the Saturday Group of Artists, Mercado is “a reflection of what a true Artist should be: passionate in his art, persistent in his vocation; an Artist who aims for perfection.”

Grandier Bella, UPCFA professor and a leading portraitist whose SiningSaysay painting is on permanent exhibit at the Gateway Gallery, is drawn to Mercado’s “strong, forceful focus on vibrant colors.”

“His use of the primary colors speaks of his passion for nature and life,” says Bella. “Some of his works, where he juxtaposes facial features with the surrounding composition, symbolizes his concern for the environment and our responsibility as stewards of nature.”

Support for regional artists
Apolonio says that Mercado’s works are some of the best accomplishments of a Filipino regional artist.

Mercado represents the unknown and unrecognized regional artists, many of whom are still struggling but who have much to offer.

“They reflect the authenticity of non-Manila art as they give color, flavor and richness to the creative landscape of the country,” says Apolonio.

“Like the book and exhibit on Mercado, the life and works of regional artists who are not as widely known as their Manila-based contemporaries must serve as impetus for documentation by art historians,” says Apolonio.

The retrospective exhibit, which presents a concisely comprehensive chronicle of Mercado’s artistic journey, also serves as the “actual equivalent” of the book, allowing the viewer to have a first-hand experience of his artworks, his major styles and its “colors, textures, and nuances.”

The exhibit will also feature Mercado’s old photographs, art paraphernalia, and a video material for a holistic perspective of his life and his art.

Professor Lucilo Sagayno of the University of San Carlos Department of Fine Arts says Mercado’s art is worth-seeing for they “could bring in certain realization on the part of the viewer who wants to probe the social values and messages of his unique paintings.”

Apolonio says that Mercado’s dream-making may have abruptly ended, but through the book and his body of work, extensions of his dreams and vision, his memory will be kept alive by their “sheer power and magic” and the support of his family, followers, and friends.

Gateway Gallery, located at the 5F, Gateway Tower, Araneta Center, is open from Monday to Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Call 588-4000 local 8300, email gatewaygallery@aranetagroup.com or visit its social media sites GatewayGalleryPH on Facebook, gateway_gallery on Twitter and gateway.gallery on Instagram. Gateway Gallery is managed by the J. Amado Araneta Foundation.

For Inquiries, contact: Edwin P. Galvez, 09178302596|09998833946 | edwin.galvez@gmail.com or Gari R. Apolonio, 09167660753, gari.apolonio@yahoo.com

Captions:

Perfecto Mercado: Mercado at his studio in Capas, Tarlac in April 2010

Binhi: Binhi, oil on canvas, 122 x 152.4 cm, 2007, representing the peak of Mercado’s religious art, was featured in the book Philippine Art Now (2008) as depictive of realism “pertaining to the Kingdom of God as the tangible elements of nature”

Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil: Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, oil on canvas, 102 x 229 cm, 2011, is among Mercado’s “breathtaking and mesmerizing” large-scale Dreamscapes

Jesus of Nazareth: Jesus of Nazareth, oil on canvas, 76 x 101 cm, 2007, part of Mercado’s stained glass series, is an “ingenious and modern representation of the timeless subject of a bruised but triumphant Christ.”

The Golfer: The Golfer, oil on canvas, 44.5 x 59 cm, 2003