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CSB drags UST into rubber match
NCAA champion St. Benilde turned back Santo Tomas, 25-22, 23-25, 18-25, 25-23, 15-11, yesterday to force a rubber match in the Shakey’s Super League Collegiate Pre-Season Championship quarterfinals at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum......»»
SSL quarterfinals: Lady Blazers stay alive vs Golden Tigresses
NCAA champion College of St. Benilde turned back the University of Santo Tomas, 25-22, 23-25, 18-25, 25-23, 15-11, to force a rubber match in the Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Collegiate Pre-season Championship quarterfinals on Saturday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum in Manila......»»
St. Benilde, UST spikers score
NCAA champion College of St. Benilde routed University of the East in the battle of coach Jerry Yee’s teams while Santo Tomas scored a quick bounce-back win over Arellano in the Shakey’s Super League (SSL) Collegiate Pre-Season Championship playoffs yesterday at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum......»»
Blazers back on trail, edge Altas
College of St. Benilde outlasted University of Perpetual Help, 86-80, on Tuesday to register its first streak of the year and reposition itself in title-contention in NCAA Season 99 at the Filoil EcoOil Arena......»»
The standouts at Fashion Forte XVIII
After more than two decades in the United States, the enterprising fashion designer Nardie Presa came back to the Philippines. Though he had a lucrative practice in California, home is where his heart is. But then Presa saw that budding designers were relegated to showcasing their creations at malls or clubs. He thought that a hotel was a more proper venue for rising talents to present their collections. The idea not only became a clever business venture; it also became the irrepressible Presa’s advocacy. Together with his longtime friend Audie Espino as director and the Crowne Plaza Galleria as the host, more and more design upstarts are getting their breaks at Presa’s Fashion Forte series held at least four times a year. The lineup is usually composed of neophyte talents but established designers such as Presa also participate to show the newbies how it’s done. At the 17th staging, it was barong Tagalog designer Barge Ramos who gave a master class. At Fashion Forte XVIII, Albert Andrada displayed his universally loved designs of romantic and dreamy confections. Mikaela Rose Fowler, Miss Grand Australia 2023, gushed on her Instagram: “What an honor to not only walk for Sir Albert Andrada during the latest Fashion Forte runway show. I had the privilege of closing the show as the grand finale.” Here are some of the standouts and their thoughts: [caption id="attachment_188837" align="aligncenter" width="525"] TONI Kimpo recommends using local fabrics to promote the country to the fashion world. | photograph courtesy of Bert Briones[/caption] TONI KIMPO “The title of my collection is Rise of the Phoenix. My inspirations are the mystical bird phoenix while the emotion behind my creations is the power to rise again like a phoenix. “My materials are sourced locally. I used some indigenous material like pearls and shells. I recommend using local fabrics to promote the country to the fashion world. “I said yes to Nardie and Audie because of their integrity, and the high fashion production that only Fashion Forte can make. [caption id="attachment_188833" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Albert Andrada displayed his universally loved designs of romantic and dreamy confections. | photograph courtesy of Mike Zuniga[/caption] “When I was a child, I grew up being influenced by the works of Tito Albert Andrada. His first shop was in my grandmother’s building. I studied fashion at Slim’s Fashion School and worked at the Carolina’s fabric store.” [caption id="attachment_188834" align="aligncenter" width="525"] CARL Acusa’s latest collection speaks of political movement through fashion. | photograph courtesy of Bert Briones[/caption] CARL ARCUSA “Luncheon At The Palace is a political movement through fashion. A collection that is intended to raise awareness to the historical past and to not forget the mistreatment, injustices, killings and power abuse during the… regime. “The materials I used are silk, organdy, piña cloth, tulle, red Swarovski crystals, beads and metal religious emblems. [The challenge of procuring the materials] is their availability to suppliers because some are sourced out abroad and the piña cloth’s availability to the market. ‘My recommended remedy] is fast supplier-to-market transport and communications. “[I said yes to Nardie and Audie] because they are both professional and friendly. Their taste and professionalism established a good foundation of trust to us designers. “I’m a self-taught. I was mentored by Rocky Gathercole and Olé Morabe. My inspirations are Christian Dior, Alexander McQueen, John Galliano, Joey Samson, Ivarluski Aseron and various Filipino veteran designers. My celebrity clients include Andrea Brillantes, Kim Chiu, Vice Ganda, Sanya Lopez, Lea Salonga and Miss Glenda.” JEZELLE AMORADO “My collection is entitled Imprint. As a fashion designer, one of my primary roles is to create pieces for clients that reflect their identity and persona. It is very seldom that I get to create something that would reflect who I am as an artist. Thus, the ‘Imprint’ collection was born. “For this collection. I wanted to do away with traditional floral and lace details. Instead I focused on the idea of how I can imprint my own DNA as a designer into each piece. The hand-beaded details of each piece were carefully crafted to show my personal way of sketching, yarn and beadwork to mimic my fingerprints and the waves in various colors were created to represent my sound waves when speaking. The Jezelle Hautea Amorado signature book folded details can also be seen in the collection as a representation of my unfolding fashion design story. “The emotions that I wanted the collection to evoke is a sense of identity and self-love for who I am as an artist. I wanted the audience to see who I truly was as an artist and experience the same level of love and admiration I felt when I was allowed to be myself and create what my heart wanted. “I wanted to present a collection that would let people realize and feel that it is OK to be themselves, to love who they are and to not let society dictate who they should be. Imprint is a collection that focuses on the idea of ‘self’ and that no person could ever alter who you are as a person. “I wanted people, women in particular, to have that profound sense of acceptance despite what society would expect of us in terms of how we dress, talk and present ourselves. Hopefully, ‘Imprint’ was able to do that. “The materials that were used were a mixture of silk gazaar, fine crepe, organza and tulle. The finer details were crafted using multicolored yarns, crystals and multi-cut beads. All of my materials were sourced from both local and international vendors that I have worked with in the course of my career. “The main challenge that I face when procuring fabrics was the fear that another designer would be using the same thing as me. My solution for this is that I stay away from already pre-beaded or pre-printed textiles. “Instead of purchasing such textiles I have my team of skilled beaders craft custom prints or details that would guarantee me a unique piece every single time. At times, it is an unavoidable circumstance that I would have to use pre-detailed fabrics such as lace, so to address this situation I would deconstruct the said fabric and have my team rework it by creating new textures, or beading details to give my clients that unique look. “I have a Bachelor’s degree in Consular and Diplomatic Affairs from De La Salle College of Saint Benilde and an Associate’s degree in Fashion Design at Raffles Design Institute Singapore. I apprenticed under Albert Andrada, who is also my mentor and design influence along with Christian Dior, Coco Chanel and Iris Van Herpen.” [caption id="attachment_188836" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ‘Fashion Forte’ expresses Nardie Presa’s specialty and strength in conceptualizing clothes and designs. | PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF MIKE ZUNIGA[/caption] “To be invited back by Nardie Presa and Audie Espino was a wonderful experience and great honor. I had my first show with them back in 2020 before the pandemic and this would have given me another opportunity to work alongside two of the most-sought after personalities in the fashion industry. “Another reason for me to say yes was that Tita Nardie had informed me that this would be a wonderful opportunity for me to continue the Mentor-Protegee story that was unfolding between me and my beloved mentor and fashion father, Albert Andrada. “The period that I got the invite for Fashion Forte was when Sir Albert and I were preparing for our ‘Marry Me at Marriott’ show and it just felt like the perfect fit. Any chance I would get to work alongside Sir Albert and share the runway with him is an opportunity that I would never want to miss.” The post The standouts at Fashion Forte XVIII appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Rama, Hari’ gala is a cultural feast
Rama, Hari (Rama the King) returns to live stage, becoming one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year. Produced by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, in partnership with the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the ballet and musical had its gala at the rehabilitated Manila Metropolitan Theater on 15 September. Aside from the show itself, there were a lecture and a small tiangge (bazaar), affording the audience a fuller experience and a deeper appreciation of the ballet, as well as the source material, the Sanskrit epic Ramayana. Also an initiative in line with the recently signed Philippines-Indonesia Memorandum of Understanding on Cultural Cooperation and the Philippines-India Cultural Exchange Program, the lecture, “Perspectives: Understanding Ramayana, The Great Epic of Asia,” was held in the early afternoon at the Metropolitan Theater Ballroom, tackling the impacts and different interpretations of Ramayana not only in India but also in Southeast Asia. Speakers were Agus Widjojo, ambassador of Indonesia to the Philippines; Shambu Kumaran, ambassador of India to the Philippines; and Dr. Marilyn Canta, retired professor from the University of the Philippines in Diliman. [caption id="attachment_185911" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Indian Ambassador Shambu Kumaran, Dr. Marilyn Canta, NCCA chairman Ino Manalo and Indonesian Ambassador Agus Widjojo. | Photograph by Roel Hoang Manipon[/caption] The Hindu epic, said to date back as early as the mid-eighth century BCE, is a much beloved work and has many versions in Southeast Asia. Its influence is very much evident in Indonesia, where the epic has a version written in old Javanese, called the Kakawin Ramayana. The Prambanan, the ninth-century Hindu temple compound, has bas-reliefs depicting scenes from the epic, and the Ramayana Ballet is regularly performed up to this day. In the Philippines, the Meranaw people of Mindanao has a folk story derived from Ramayana, “Maharadia Lawana,” which was adapted into an hours-long, modern theatrical showcase for the Budayaw: The BIMP-EAGA Festival of Cultures in 2017. On the other hand, the tiangge, at the Hardin ng Ekspresyon, the west courtyard of the theater, had booths offering Indian food, spices and home decors. Fashion brand Plains & Prints also set up a corner featuring their latest collection featuring heritage sites in collaboration with photographer Mark Nicdao. On the other hand, the tiangge, at the Hardin ng Ekspresyon, the west courtyard of the theater, had booths offering Indian food, spices and home decors. Fashion brand Plains & Prints also set up a corner featuring their latest collection featuring heritage sites in collaboration with photographer Mark Nicdao. Audience members started arriving at six. The first-timers to the theater explored and took photographs of the different corners. Illustrious guests were led by National Artists Virgilio S. Almario, Benedicto “BenCab” Cabrera, Ricky Lee and Agnes Locsin, as well as cultural agency heads, National Archives of the Philippines executive director and NCCA chairman Victorino Mapa Manalo, National Museum of the Philippines director Jeremy R. Barns and Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino chairman Arthur P. Casanova. Also in the audience were theater and cinema scholar Nicanor Tiongson, professor and researcher Galileo Zafra, actor and satirist Mae Paner, actor Menchu Lauchengco Yulo, talent manager Noel Ferrer, theater critic Amadis Maria Guerrero, Manila Vice Mayor Yul Servo, chef Gelo Guison and designer Barge Ramos. Aika Robredo, the eldest daughter of former Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo, also enjoyed the show. [caption id="attachment_185913" align="aligncenter" width="525"] The wedding of Rama and Sita.[/caption] Her mother graced a rehearsal on 6 September, especially invited by Rama, Hari choreographer and director, National Artist Alice Reyes and composer, National Artist Ryan Cayabyab. On 7 September, Robredo enthused on Facebook: “Yesterday, we, together with some local artists from Naga, trooped to the Metropolitan Theater in Manila to watch their first full stage rehearsal and we were stunned. They were not in costumes yet and the stage design was not even mounted yet but the entire production left us breathless and speechless!! It is the best of Philippine Dance and Music.” She encouraged everyone not to miss “the only collaboration that features the masterful works of five National Artists.” Aside from Reyes and Cayabyab, the other National Artists involved in the production are the late Bienvenido Lumbera, who wrote the lyrics and libretto; Salvador Bernal, who designed the stage and costumes; and Rolando Tinio, who translated it to English. They were not yet declared National Artists when the production by Ballet Philippines premiered on 8 February 1980 at CCP’s Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo. The original staging featured Nonoy Froilan, Basil Valdez, Kuh Ledesma, Leo Valdez and Edna Vida. Rama, Hari was not restaged until 2012, starring Christian Bautista, Karylle Tatlonghari, Richardson Yadao and Katherine Trofeo. It won 14 Philstage Gawad Buhay awards. An adaptation was mounted in 1999, called Rama, Hari, Rama at Sita, The Musical, featuring Ariel Rivera and Lani Misalucha as performers, directed by Leo Rialp and choreographed by Locsin. The music was composed by Cayabyab and Danny Tan, and the lyrics written by Roy Iglesias and Dodjie Simon, based on Lumbera’s book. Rama, Hari was planned to be the closing production of Ballet Philippines’ 50th season in March 2020, but was canceled when lockdowns were imposed because of the coronavirus pandemic. When Reyes established her own dance company in 2022, the Alice Reyes Dance Philippines, Rama, Hari became one of its cherished projects. [caption id="attachment_185909" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Energetic dancing by Alice Reyes Dance Philippines. | Photographs courtesy of Teddy Pelaez[/caption] Reyes put both dancers and singers on the same stage, interpreting scenes and emotions in both words and movements. The cast is led by Arman Ferrer as Rama with alternate Vien King and dancer versions Ronelson Yadao and Ejay Arisola. Sita is portrayed by singers Karylle Tatlonghari, Shiela Valderrama-Martinez and neophyhte Nica Tupas and dancers Monica Gana and Katrene San Miguel. [caption id="attachment_185910" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Erl Sorilla as Lakshmana and Monica Gana as Sita. | Photograph courtesy of Teddy Pelaez[/caption] Singers Poppert Bernadas, Matthew San Jose and Jonel Mojica and dancers Richardson Yadao (also dancer for King Janaka) and Tim Cabrera take on the villain role, the demon king of Lanka, Ravana. Other performers are Audie Gemora (singer, King Dasaratha), Lester Reguindin and John Ababon (dancers, King Dasaratha); Miah Canton and Raflesia Bravo (singers, Kooni and Soorpanakha); Ma. Celina Dofitas and Sarah Alejandro (dancers, Soorpanakha); Michaella Carreon and Dofitas (dancers, Kooni); Katrine Sunga and Maron Rozelle Mabana (singers, Kaikeyi and the Golden Deer); Janine Arisola and Karla Santos (dancers, Kaikeyi); Erl Sorilla and Renzen Arboleda (dancers, Lakshmana and King Sagreeva); Paw Castillo and Jon Abella (singers, Hanuman and Lakshmana); and Dan Dayo and Ricmar Bayoneta (dancers, Hanuman); Alejandro and Krislynne Buri (Golden Deer); Dayo and James Galarpe (Bharata). Aside from ARDP and CCP’s Professional Artist Support Program, other performers come from Guang Ming College Artist Residency Program, Philippine High School for the Arts, De La Salle College of Saint Benilde and the Ryan Cayabyab Singers. Music is performed by Orchestra of the Filipino Youth with Antonio Maria P. Cayabyab as conductor. After the two-night gala on 15 and 16 September at the Manila Metropolitan Theater, the production moves to the Samsung Performing Arts Theater of Circuit Makati in Makati City on 22 and 23 September. The post ‘Rama, Hari’ gala is a cultural feast appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
TOFA honors this year’s Presidential Volunteer Service awardees
The Outstanding Filipinos in America, an organization that honors the achievements of Filipinos in the USA, named the 2023 Presidential Volunteer Service Awardees during the recent awarding ceremony at the Triad Theater in New York City. Founded by New York-based journalist Elton Lugay, TOFA acknowledged individuals who rendered their talents and skills, expertise and wisdom in diverse community events around the United States. The distinction was acknowledged by the office of The White House in Washington, D.C. This year’s recipients included senior creative manager Angelene Coronel, healthcare worker Richie Garcia, special education teacher Deirdre Levy, public health expert Rachelle Peraz Ocampo, civil rights advocate Clifford Robin Temprosa and digital creators Dennis Almario, Chris Labaco, Jonathan Maravilla, Erwin Pajarillo and Eric Relucio. Dominating the roster were artists and performers Arianne Aldecoa, Denise Kara Almario, Bernice Bernabe, Eric Celerio, Marga Empress, Manilyn Gemproso, Asia Guzman, Melody Himarangan, Erno Hormillosa Jr., Gene Juanich, Hansel Mendoza, Morris Montilla, Marcus Oche, Bobby Ramiro, Ellis Young, Hannah Zapanta and Mark Anthony Atienza. Atienza, a graduate of Bachelor of Arts in Music Production from the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, recalled that he was surprised with the recognition. He thought he was just only attending the affair. “I feel honored and blessed to receive this award. It continues to motivate and inspire me to constantly give back to the community,” he said. Since residing in the US since 2021, he sang in Filipino restaurants, including Kabayan and Kusina Pinoy Bistro. Atienza was the opening act of some biggest celebrities’ concerts, such as Morissette Amon, Marcelito Pomoy, Erik Santos, Gary Valenciano and KZ Tandingan. He likewise has been part of special traditional Masses such as Simbang Gabi and social gatherings of the Philippine consulate and the Philippine Independence Day Council Inc. With his determination and passion, Atienza, along with his fellow TOFA singers Almario, Guzman, Relucio, Young, Zapanta, Neeko Delos Santos and Geo Rebucas, showcased their vocal prowess with the US National Anthem during the Filipino Heritage Night at a National Basketball Association game at Madison Square Garden in November 2022. They were also invited to serenade the White House for its Christmas Open House in December 2022. Despite missing his home country, Atienza shared that he temporarily decided to stay abroad because of the opportunities which opened up for his career. “As an independent artist during the pandemic, it was really hard for me because I had no place to perform,” he stated. “No way to somehow make a living with my music.” He lauded all musicians and digital creators in the industry for inspiring him to become a better person. “I hope and pray that with your art and contents that you’re making, you’ll continue to use it to make an impact on our society.” Atienza wrote songs for multimedia companies GMA Music and Viva Music. His original pieces were also featured in the movie Walwal, which was directed by award-winning filmmaker and Benilde Digital Filmmaking chairperson Jose Javier “Joey” Reyes. He recently released his debut album 20/20, which was based on his own experiences of love and heartbreak during the coronavirus pandemic. The post TOFA honors this year’s Presidential Volunteer Service awardees appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Chef Valery Anthony’s secrets: Time and Intention
Valery Jane Anthony grew up watching shows on the Food Network, which was ultimately noticed by her nurturing and caring mom, an amazing cook herself. “As she noted that I grew fond of watching the ongoings in the kitchen, she bought me cookbooks which I would continuously read day in and day out,” she shared. “And I presume that’s where my love for food and cooking started. Besides, I would feel myself the most when I’m in the kitchen,” she admitted. [caption id="attachment_168047" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Valery Anthony (rightmost, standing) at her college graduation[/caption] Chef Valery, 24, was raised within an encouraging family. “I believe that’s one big factor as to why I kept persevering through my career. They’ve always been so supportive on whatever I did. And whenever I did make mistakes, they also pointed it out and helped me fix it so I could be better.” Prior to graduation from the Culinary Arts program of the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, she was the sole Philippine delegate to the Young Chefs Olympiad in India, one of the largest culinary gatherings worldwide, where she clinched fifth place. She likewise garnered silver at the lauded Philippine Culinary Cup. [gallery size="full" columns="2" ids="168049,168057"] During her internship at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners in d’Asti and in the Michelin-star restaurant Il Picolo Principe in Luca, Tuscany, both in Italy, her main takeaways were organization, ingredients, techniques and, most importantly, resilience. “My highlight would definitely be the traveling and the food most especially. There’s really a certain charm when you get to experience another country’s food and culture. I would say it’s a core memory and a lifelong memory of mine,” she imparted. With a culinary degree in hand, her first foray into the professional world was at the award-winning Italian pizzeria a mano Restaurant, where she worked her way up to become a chef de partie. Today, she has joined the ranks of sterling chef Margarita Fores’ Sostanza Corporation as a chef de partie and menu planner. When asked on her favorite ingredient, she approached the question with the intangible — time and intention. “Excellent food may still be done quickly even on a rush. But as with a lot of great dishes, it requires time and patience. Cooking and creating food has to be intentional. It makes it more personal and honestly affects the overall product,” she revealed. [gallery size="full" ids="168081,168080,168079"] Meanwhile, her sharp and trusty knife is her favorite kitchen tool. “Sometimes that’s all a chef needs in a busy kitchen.” When pressured, she tends to remain calm and laugh it out after service. “However, I recalled I started as a really terrible crybaby,” chef Valery divulged. “During my first job, I would cry over the smallest matters. But I eventually learned to manage my thoughts and emotions better under pressure by taking it positively and not to dwell over it.” During her free time, she loves to read and write, being a bookworm back in high school. “Now I enjoy reading articles about food, fashion and art. In addition, I relish going on self-dates! I’m quite comfortable in my own company and I love going to malls, cafes and restaurants by myself. It’s a way for me to unwind and destress.” Looking into the future, she wishes to continue with research and development in the food industry and hopes to be included in more collaborations — fingers crossed, she said. One day someday, she prays for a project she can call her own. [gallery size="full" ids="168078,168077,168076"] We had a chat with chef Valery as she shared her thoughts on values, words of inspiration and working with chef Margarita Fores: On modesty “One lesson that I always carry, even until now, is to keep my feet on the ground and my head held high. College and competitions have humbled me in a lot of ways through mistakes and failures. I emerged as a stronger and wiser person. Keep on pushing! I don’t believe in giving up. I advocate perhaps to take a break, step back. But never give up.” Hardest to master recipe “This is actually quite funny! A little backstory, I am in love with chocolate chip cookies. And I’ve been trying to make my own version since God knows when — I’ve always been left unsatisfied. Only until recently, I made a batch that I was genuinely happy with! I’m not the best with baking, but I do have the patience with testing recipes here and there, every now and then.” Working with Chef Margarita Fores “It still feels so surreal! I’ve been a huge fan since I was in high school. Even before she won Asia’s Best Female Chef, I’ve already had a big admiration for her. She’s extremely kind and fun to be with. She has also opened up a lot of doors for me and I must say that she is one of the catalysts in my career.” Latest projects “I’m currently handling menu planning and research and development in chef Margarita’s catering company. I recently also did a collaboration in Singapore with chef Margarita, chef Miko Calo and chef Johanne Sy. I used to only dream of these. I’m extremely grateful I get to have my passion as my job!” Culinary motto “Never stop learning. I’ve always believed that it is an everyday experience. We always have the chance to gain new knowledge and improve ourselves, through small or big ways. And wherever we go, there will always be those who will have our weaknesses as their strengths and vice versa. So keep on learning.” Advice to aspiring chefs “Take notes of everything, even if you think you won’t need it. One day you will. Always initiate to help. Because that’s one step to learning.” The post Chef Valery Anthony’s secrets: Time and Intention appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
CINEMALAYA REVIEW: SHORTS A
‘SOTA’ Mae Tanagon opens her short documentary Sota by bombarding you with paragraphs and paragraphs of information. Sota means horse caretaker, and Tanagon follows two sotas, Arnel Arguelles and Leonardo Yambao, who expose their working conditions in the horse gambling industry. Tanagon aims to highlight the fact that while horse racing in the Philippines is a multibillion-peso industry, its workers are horrendously underpaid. Unfortunately, the lengthy texts that clutter the screen weaken Taganon’s storytelling, making her advocacy almost lost, because if you recall Sota in the future, you’d remember how it was a hassle reading the texts rather than the plight of underpaid horse caretakers. The subject matter has a potential to be a stirring documentary, the racetracks could have been more photogenic, but this feels dry and dull, and rushed. (1 out of 5 stars) ‘HINAKDAL’ [caption id="attachment_168108" align="aligncenter" width="700"] ‘HINAKDAL’ by Arvin Belarmino.[/caption] Arvin Belarmino’s black-and-white take on social prejudice is imaginative, funny and tense. Set in a remote province, it follows an impoverished zombie mother and young son during one of their ordinary days. They are poor and rely on religious icons for their everyday salvation. But the appearance of a chicken thief suddenly disrupts their relatively peaceful life. Belarmino’s choice to portray the poor sector of the country as zombies is rather fascinating, adding a touch of surrealism and fantasy without compromising entertainment value and sharp social commentary. (3 out of 5 stars) ‘KOKURYO: THE UNTOLD STORY OF BB. UNDAS 2019’ [caption id="attachment_168104" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] ‘KOKURYO: The Untold Story of Bb. Undas 2019’ by Diokko Manuel Dionisio.[/caption] Diokko Manuel Dionisio’s Kokuryo is a comedic portrait of friendship, poverty and transgenderism. While the student film (Dionisio is a graduating film student from La Salle-Benilde) has audio problems and poor resolution, the visual composition and costumes are breathtaking. Plus, Mindy Jane Castillo has a powerful onscreen presence, managing to hook you from beginning to end. In the aftermath of a small-time trans pageant contest called Bb. Undas 2019, the winner (Castillo) finds 50 percent of her prize money missing. She and best friend (Thalia Nagaño) go on a search, which is often funny albeit the amateur performances from some of the supporting cast. It culminates in a heartbreaking ending, with a most beautiful shot for a finale. (3 out of 5 stars) ‘HM HMM MHM’ [caption id="attachment_168106" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] ‘HM HMM MHM’ by Sam Villa-Real and Kim Timan.[/caption] The title alone is pretentious and contrived. Sam Villa-Real and Kim Timan’s Hm Hm Mhm uses stop motion for a story on domestic violence. Using dolls, with the central character a little girl doll and Barbie and Ken as its parents, the filmmakers produce somewhat surreal, nightmarish imagery. The film removes dialogue and incorporates dreamy sequences, rage, slithering vines and what looks like a woman’s reproductive organ (or a womb). The vibe is sinister, with a constant feeling of trouble and unrest. While there is a hint of domestic violence going on, the chaotic visuals make the storytelling incoherent. The film ends up more like an exercise in stop-motion rather than using the animated technique for a more effective way of saying whatever it wants to say. (0 out of 5 stars) ‘SIBUYAS NI PERFECTO’ [caption id="attachment_168113" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] ‘SIBUYAS Ni Perfecto’ by January Yap.[/caption] Januar Yap’s subdued drama follows an old man, Perfecto, with his worn-out slippers, carrying on his back a heavy basket of vegetables to deliver to his “friend,” Sir Eddie (whom we never see). The fact that Perfecto calls the man “sir” and feels honored that Eddie is his “friend” who trusts him with the delivery quickly establishes how Perfecto is very simple-minded and trusting. The fact that Eddie lets Perfecto walk miles and miles and miles to deliver vegetables to his doorstep, and Perfecto’s friend says Eddie is a con man, allow us to immediately know that Perfecto is a victim of abuse of men with money and power — the Sir Eddies of the world. Yap manages to make the viewer experience Perfecto’s suffering by allowing the viewer to experience the great distance he has to travel to get to Eddie’s house. This is a painful portrait of innocence and naivete, as well as the socioeconomic hierarchy where Perfecto is at the bottom of the chain. The ending is pretty strong. (3 out of 5 stars) The post CINEMALAYA REVIEW: SHORTS A appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Benilde, JMCF, Perpetual spikers triumph
Back-to-back NCAA champion St. Benilde made a rousing debut while Mindanao pride Jose Maria College Foundation stunned Lyceum in Day 2 of the Shakey’s Super League National Invitationals yesterday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre......»»
Filipina fashion designer carves a name in Osaka
A young Filipina fashion designer based in Osaka, Japan, has continuously etched a name for herself – and for the country – as she faithfully upholds unique craftsmanship in all her creations. Her name: Pamela Madlangbayan. [caption id="attachment_141460" align="aligncenter" width="525"] FASHION DESIGNER: Pamela Madlangbayan[/caption] Pamela’s father was once an OFW. Longing to be together, the family relocated to the Land of the Rising Sun in 2006. However, come college, Pamela wished to alleviate some of her parents’ financial burdens. Thus, she earnestly searched for scholarships all across Japan and beyond. She was accepted into the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, where she finished her Fashion Design and Merchandising degree. As the worrisome pandemic halted the world into an absolute standstill, Pamela, on her final year, had serious second thoughts on her specialization. “I didn’t know whether I should even pursue fashion since nobody really needs designer clothes during a global crisis — at least that’s what it felt like,” she earlier admitted. Still, she continued to tread on her chosen path. Before long, she found herself back in Japan, a fashion capital of the world, creating bespoke pieces for the Japanese fashionista crowd. Today, she is an essential component of EINS, a curated vintage shop in Osaka. Armed with black suits, she breathes new life into these coats as she paints, embroiders and reshapes them. [caption id="attachment_141463" align="aligncenter" width="525"] MASTERFUL EMBROIDERY: Hand-stitched detailing on a vintage jacket[/caption] “I feel almost like Dr. Frankenstein, busily stitching together different suits and trousers to construct new hybrids. We gained a niche circle of clients who ordered these deconstructed avant-garde garments, as well as the custom painted suits to don for special occasions,” she said. She has likewise began teaching part-time at a major fashion institute, as an interpreter for Oleg Mitrofanov, a professor at various universities and colleges across continents. The duo covers courses from Introduction to Fashion and Concept Creation to reviewing student portfolios for the students’ graduate collection. As of recent, Pamela is busy with what is perhaps one of the most important projects in her career so far – the TAYO Fashion Showcase as part of the Filipino-Japanese Friendship affair, the first of its kind in Osaka. Founded by the illustrator and textile designer Feanne, Pamela was then tapped by the Philippine Consulate General as the event coordinator. TAYO, with a double meaning — us or to rise in Filipino and diverse or multicultural in Nihongo — will host a group of established fashion and jewelry designers from the Philippines, joining sustainable fashion designers from Japan in a celebration of craftsmanship. “I couldn’t be more excited to be able to bridge two of my homes through the fields I’m most passionate about,” she said. “The idea that we can be anything and everything all at once” is what continues to inspire the young fashion prodigy. “I can be anything as long as the hunger and passion to learn is present. The thought that I can grow and evolve into someone with an enriched mind and enhanced soul through arts is what keeps me truly going,” she disclosed. During her free time, she loves to stroll across the city and take pictures with her film camera — I repeat, film camera! She likewise makes an effort to use less social media, plus a term called touching grass which means to unplug and enjoy real life, which allows her more opportunity to appreciate nature and meet new people. On the other hand, she acknowledges that as a self-labeled “Official Grown Up,” pressure is internal. She breaks down steps one by one – and her anxiety disappears. “Pressure is something that we instill into ourselves. You’d be surprised how little people expect from you because they’re too busy tending to their own.” Let us hear from Pamela Madlangbayan on all the various aspects of her interesting life in Japan: [caption id="attachment_141462" align="aligncenter" width="525"] TOKYO FASHION SCENE: EINS bondage suits Photo credit: SHIN (@s.yoshi8024)[/caption] On EINS: After a year and a half, we got the attention of a popular high-end curated vintage store within the Shimokitazawa neighborhood in Tokyo. They currently hold my pieces with the EINS label tag and my artist alias Sabotten as the signature on all painted items. I’m very proud of the creations that I was able to produce with only little resources, a lot of imagination and many hours of manual labor. Therefore, to have those stocked in the heart of Tokyo’s alternative fashion scene is such a huge motivation for me to continue slowly, but surely! [caption id="attachment_141465" align="aligncenter" width="525"] CLASSIC REBIRTH: An EINS painted apparel[/caption] Her alter ego: Sabotten is alive and well! I’ve used that alias as my artist identity because I feared that Pamela Madlangbayan as a person might change the perception of the clients towards the art I create. The reason I kept my identity anonymous for my work at the brand is because I do not submit to the MODE-KEI fashion tribe — which is our main clientele. With fashion, it’s never just about the clothes, people buy the personality and the perception that comes with it. But now that my namesake label is in the works, I am gradually bringing the two artist identities together. After all, despite the contrasting elements, these are all a body of my field. I embrace everything now, without trying too hard to set them apart. [caption id="attachment_141466" align="aligncenter" width="525"] ALTER EGO CREATION: Custom-made Sabotten illustrated garment[/caption] Teaching: It’s been an honor and a privilege to work with Oleg Mitrofanov. Last December, we went to the most prestigious fashion school in Tokyo to conduct a week-long winter seminar. I’ve dreamt of – and even made it a goal at one point – to enroll at this school and it feels surreal to be teaching there. [caption id="attachment_141464" align="aligncenter" width="525"] NOBLE INITIATIVE: Pamela’s designs are brought to life by members of the FIBERS community Photo credits: Pamela Mejia/FIBERS[/caption] TAYO collection: The latest collection that will be unveiled at TAYO is a love letter to our laborers. My grandfather and those who came before him were produce farmers, mainly coffee, fruit and vegetables in Silang, Cavite. My great-grandmother was a seamstress during and after the war. They are my roots. Therefore, I want to honor my family, as well as those who continue to work in these sectors. Since the event will take place right after the Philippine Independence Day, I should shed the spotlight on our farmers and textile industry workers and craftsmen. I believe that they are the pillars of our society, often overlooked. However, they are the ones who keep our nation’s traditional agriculture and culture alive. My creations will be the “friendship show piece” of the event, one that binds both cultures. I am aware with the issues surrounding cultural appropriation and tokenization. I see both the Philippines and Japan as my homes, having lived here for almost two decades. Yes, I did a lot of research as to how I can pay homage to both cultures with the utmost respect. [caption id="attachment_141467" align="aligncenter" width="525"] FILIPINO-JAPANESE ELEMENTS: The Kimonoterno, a combination of two national dresses[/caption] Advocating Filipino craftsmanship: When talking to my Japanese peers, most of them do not really have an idea of what the Philippine fashion scene is like. I think it’s always worth talking about how much talent and skill our craftsmen and designers have, as well as our very rich culture and heritage. I’ve always wanted to share this aspect of the Philippines here in Japan and I believe the best way to do it is to, just do: Put out works, talk about Philippine fashion, promote my Filipino friends’ brands to Japanese friends. Empowering marginalized women: Though charity is altruistic and wonderful, it’s still a temporary fix to deep-seated social issues. I think the best way to uplift less-privileged communities is to connect and cultivate new groups where everyone can share their skills and experiences for the betterment of everyone involved. Through a referral of Allesandra Gutierrez, currently based in the Philippines, I was given the privilege to work with Fashion Innovative Businesses for the Environment, Reformation and Sustainability, a collective actively moving across countries in Southeast Asia -- from the Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand. I likewise connected with Pamela Mejia who spearheads a communal project that empowers marginalized women through needlework and other crafts. [caption id="attachment_141468" align="aligncenter" width="525"] IN HER WORLD: Pamela on a business trip in Tokyo[/caption] Advice to aspiring fashion designers: Being a designer is not a race. It’s a discipline that you hone over the years through practice, coupled with a lot of research. Stay grounded, remain eager to learn, try to look outwards, not inwards. See the world and think of what you can offer. Otherwise, we’re just creating more landfill. The post Filipina fashion designer carves a name in Osaka appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Benilde seals perfect season
College of Saint Benilde crushed Lyceum University of the Philippines, 25-19, 25-11, 25-20, to retain the Season 98 National Collegiate Athletic Association women’s volleyball crown via sweep yesterday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan. The Game 2 victory in the best-of-three series was the Lady Blazers’ 29th stretching back to January 2020 and was made possible by the precious contributions of Gayle Pascual, who hit 15 points, and Finals Most Valuable Player Jade Gentapa, who had 13. Also making her presence felt was Cloanne Mondonedo, who had 23 excellent sets. The win, which culminated its perfect season, allowed Saint Benilde to hold a double celebration as it was also head coach Jerry Yee’s 49th birthday. “Honestly, this championship was harder. We had a few five-set games along the way and we had to adjust,” said Yee, who gave the school its third league title. “I’m happy that in the end, we were able to get the championship,” he added. Johna Dolorito was the only Lady Pirate to score in double digits with 11 points. Meanwhile, San Beda University clawed out of a 0-2 hole for a 17-25, 25-27, 25-22, 25-23, 15-11 win over University of Perpetual Help System Dalta in Game 2 of the men’s volleyball tournament. Kenrod Umali and rookie Ralph Cabalsa both scored 19 points each as the Red Spikers snapped the Altas’ 32-game winning streak that started back in Game 2 of the Season 93 Finals against Arellano University on 19 February 2018. Both San Beda and Perpetual will play for all the marbles on Sunday in the same San Juan venue. Red Spikers head coach Ariel de la Cruz said the team’s positive mindset despite the odds proved vital. “It has to start with me. I have to motivate them and elevate them so that whatever mistake that happens, we work together and fix it,” De la Cruz said. “It starts when you enter the court with a smile and enjoy the game.” San Beda started the fifth set with a 6-2 lead and never looked back as Cabalsa fired an off-the-block kill for the win. Season 98 MVP Louie Ramirez led the way for the losers with 32. An awarding ceremony took place before the matches kicked off with individual awards being given to the tournament’s other top performers. John Benedict San Andres of Mapua University was hailed as the 1st Best Outside Spiker while Emilio Aguinaldo College’s Joshua Ramilo took home the 2nd Best Outside Spiker award. Letran College’s Vinze Himzon won both Rookie of the Year and 1st Best Middle Blocker awards while Jethro Cabillan of Arellano University took the 2nd Best Middle Blocker award. Adrian Villados of the Chiefs was hailed as the Season 98 Best Setter with Perpetual’s Joshua Zareno taking the Best Opposite Spiker plum and Lawrence Briones of EAC getting the Best Libero honors. In the women’s tournament, Mary Rhose Dapol was hailed as both the MVP and the 1st Best Outside Spiker of Season 98 with teammates Shaila Omipon and Marian Anday picked the Rookie of the Year and Best Libero, respectively. Gentapa likewise took home the 2nd Best Outside Spiker while teammate Pascual got the tournament’s Best Opposite Spiker title. Lyceum team captain Venice Puzon picked up her second Best Setter diadem with fellow Lady Pirate Jaja Tulang voted as the 2nd Best Middle Blocker. Arellano’s Trina Abay took home the 1st Best Middle Blocker award. The post Benilde seals perfect season appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Lady Blazers sink Lady Pirates for historic back-to-back NCAA volleyball sweeps
College of St. Benilde swept its way to the NCAA volleyball title for the second straight season to secure its place in the league’s hierarchy as one of the greatest teams of all time......»»
Blazers near top 2 windup
St. Benilde drew strength from other sources when MVP race leader Will Gozum sputtered for just nine points as the Blazers turned back the Arellano University Chiefs, 83-73, yesterday to reclaim a share of the lead with Letran in NCAA Season 98 at the Filoil EcoOil Centre......»»
LPU gains lead as Letran stops Arellano in CCE MLBB Season 2
Bouncing back from a shock loss against Arellano in Week 1, LPU swept their three assignments in University of Perpetual Help System Dalta, Mapua University, and College of St. Benilde to regain control of the tournament......»»
Stags, Altas boost semis drives
San Sebastian College and University of Perpetual Help turned back shorthanded Jose Rizal U, 92-74, and College of St. Benilde, 89-83, respectively, yesterday to boost their Final Four drives in NCAA Season 98 at the Filoil EcoOil Centre......»»
Knights back on top with 8th straight win
Louie Sangalang kept his vow and never let up as he powered Letran to a 74-66 victory over St. Benilde yesterday to reclaim the top spot in NCAA Season 98 at the Filoil EcoOil Centre......»»
Blazers back on lofty perch, clip Cards
St. Benilde outgunned Mapua in the third quarter and hacked out a 73-64 victory yesterday to regain the top spot in the 98th NCAA basketball tournament at the Filoil EcoOil Centre......»»
GREATEST PERFORMANCES: Arellano U’s sweep of thrice-to-beat SSC-R
Arellano University has been the dominating force in the NCAA women’s volleyball for the past three seasons. If not for the cancellation of Season 95 due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Lady Chiefs would’ve made a strong case for a four-peat. But while the Lady Chiefs displayed great character to extend their reign, it was Arellano U’s impressive showing in Season 92 Finals series that built the solid foundation of its grand slam. Three years ago, the Lady Chiefs redeemed themselves from surrendering the crown the previous season by dethroning College of St. Benilde in the stepladder semifinals. Arellano U thus earned a return ticket to the Finals. However, the Lady Chiefs had to face an uphill climb in the championship series as they took on an unbeaten Grethcel Soltones-led San Sebastian College armed with a thrice-to-beat advantage. The Lady Stags handed Arellano U its only loss in the elimination round, before coming into the Finals with nine straight wins. Led by the graduating Soltones backed by a veteran crew, SSC-R looked poised to avenge its humiliating defeat the season before when they squandered the same series advantage. But the Lady Chiefs proved that they were the hungrier team. Using the death of head coach Obet Javier’s wife, Amy Marie, after a long bout with lung cancer as added motivation, Arellano U pulled off a shocker in the series opener. The Lady Chiefs swept the Recto-based squad, 25-18, 25-20, 25-16, with Rialen Sante, Jovie Prado, Andrea Marzan and Mary Anne Esguerra leading the way. Drawing first blood, Arellano U quickly shifted momentum to its favor. They played spoiler to Soltones’ third straight Most Valuable Player award in Game 2 when the Lady Chiefs survived a thrilling five-set match, 18-25, 25-16, 25-11, 26-28, 15-13, to inch closer to its second title since joining the league in 2009. Arellano kept its composure in a very tight fifth set breaking a 13-all deadlock with Regine Arocha’s off speed. SSC-R was the first top blink when Dangie Encarnacion committed an attack error that brought back the nightmare of the Lady Stags’ Season 91 Finals defeat. Then in Game 3, the Lady Chiefs celebrated Valentine’s Day by breaking the hearts of the Lady Stags, 25-15, 22-25, 25-23, 25-16. “Napakalaki sa amin ito kasi 'yung mga bata, pinaghirapan talaga namin ang taon na ito," Javier said then. "Noong first round, natalo kami sa Baste kaya nag-set kami ng goal na hindi na dapat mangyari ito. Nangyari naman." That feat set the tone for Arellano U’s next two conquests. From there, the Lady Chiefs established its current domination of the country’s oldest collegiate league. --- Follow this writer on Twitter, @fromtheriles.....»»
NCAA: Tang believes his Blazers are ready to take next step forward
TY Tang's arrival at the College of St. Benilde came at just the right time. In NCAA Season 92, the Blazers lost 17 straight games before managing to finish the year with a 1-17 record. Next season, first-time coach Tang took over and CSB's rebuild was officially underway. In Season 93, the Blazers went 4-14. In Season 94, CSB finished 10-8 and was one game back from a Final Four appearance. It's some good progress, but Tang knows there's more room for growth. "We need more talented players for one, that's gonna make life easier but more than that, to all the players that are watching, I believe in you guys," Tang said during his appearance on Coaches Unfiltered. "I have complete trust that we're gonna make it this time around. I believe it's more of the camaraderie, more of the blending of the culture, the toughness physically and mentally being tough inside the court, that's something that we really lack in," he added. In the recent NCAA Season 95, the Blazers started hot, reeling off five straight wins to start and were tied for the second-best record after round 1. However, Benilde fell apart and lost nine of ten games, including six straight in the second round. Ultimately, the Blazers finished fifth for the second straight season but took one step back with just an even 9-9 record. "I think it's really more of that, not being able to collapse or not being able to think of what lies ahead or sometimes we're being too emotional when we win and when we lose," Tang said. "We can't just put ourselves in a calm manner, just to go with the flow and get there first and then afterwards, celebrate. Medyo ano pa kami, we're still immature in terms of that aspect," he added. The year is pretty long in the NCAA, and it takes patience to be able to endure the grind. Coach TY hopes that the failures of the last two seasons can help a more mature Blazers team to move forward for Season 96. "We're hoping that through these experiences these past seasons, we'll be able to achieve higher goals this season," Tang said. — Follow this writer on Twitter, @paullintag8.....»»