FACES OF CEBU: Ruel Rosello, 50, photographer/artist
CEBU CITY, Philippines—Ruel Rosello visualizes Cebu’s vibrant landscape through his lens or canvas. But the 50-year-old ex-photo journalist is now more known as a painter than a photographer. Rosello, who worked as a photojournalist with a local daily for 17 years, said that his experience with his previous work has helped him create unique and […] The post FACES OF CEBU: Ruel Rosello, 50, photographer/artist appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Cebu Football Club introduces new faces for the upcoming PFL season
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Cebu Football Club (CFC) Gentle Giants continues to overhaul its entire roster after welcoming new faces, including key homegrown players, as the Philippines Football League (PFL) season unfolds in April. The Gentle Giants presented 10 new players, including four Cebu homegrown players, who will comprise its official roster for the.....»»
Araneta-Nontshinga rematch looms as IBF orders world title clash
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Cebuano knockout artist Cristian “The Bomb” Araneta and the reigning International Boxing Federation (IBF) world light flyweight champion Sivenathi Nontshinga of South Africa are set for a collision course after the IBF ordered a mandatory title defense this year. In a letter sent to Omega Sports Promotions International president Pio Paulo.....»»
Yeung At Heart: Jewelle Yeung Paints Motherhood and Astronauts at Qube Gallery
On February 8, Qube Gallery presented ‘Familiar Echoes,’ which showcased the diverse stories of Cebuana artists through photographs and paintings. Among these paintings was Jewelle Yeung’s ‘Same Place, Different Time,” a favorite of art patrons at the exhibit opening. Cebu-based artist Jewelle Yeung has never been to space, but she is an astronaut. Yeung started.....»»
Fil-Am rapper MBNel thrilled to perform during Cebu’s Sinulog 2024 festival
Filipino-American hip-hop artist MBNel, real name Jhonel Dongon, is thrilled to be performing at the Trademark Club in Cebu City on Sunday during the Sinulog Festival 2024 celebration. It comes full circle for him to put on a show in Cebu as he spent parts of his childhood there and is also the hometown of his mother......»»
Fajardo now rated No. 5 in IBF Jr. flyweight world rankings
CEBU CITY, Philippines— Knockout artist Miel “Silent Assassin” Fajardo sees a world title on the horizon after securing the fifth spot in the latest International Boxing Federation (IBF) light flyweight division rankings. The 24-year-old Fajardo, hailing from San Francisco, Agusan Del Sur, shocked the local boxing scene with his ultra-fast first-round knockout victory against Cebuano.....»»
Araneta: Experience and Donaire’s help key to winning world title eliminator bout
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Omega Boxing Gym’s banner boxer, Christian “The Bomb” Araneta, is full of confidence heading into his third world title eliminator fight. The 28-year-old Cebuano knockout artist will trade leathers with Arvin “Hurricane” Magramo for the International Boxing Federation (IBF) world junior flyweight world title eliminator on January 26 at the Nustar.....»»
Araneta takes on Magramo for IBF world title eliminator in Cebu
CEBU CITY, Philippines — World-rated knockout artist Christian “The Bomb” Araneta will test his mettle against an equally dangerous foe in the main event of “Kumbati 16” on January 26 at the plush Nustar Resort and Casino’s convention center at the South Road Properties, here. The 28-year-old native of Borbon town in north Cebu will.....»»
Young stars shine at SM Little Stars 2023 Grand Finals
Representatives from SM City San Pablo and SM City Dasmarinas were hailed as boy and girl Grand Prize winners of the recently concluded SM Little Stars 2023 Grand Finals held at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall on 14 October 2023. [caption id="attachment_202093" align="aligncenter" width="935"] Grand Prize winners Aljon Christoff Banaira from SM City San Pablo (2nd from left) and Jourdanne Baldonido from SM City Dasmarinas (center) with, from left to right, 1st runner-up Eduardo Joson II from SM Megacenter Cabanatuan, 3rd runner-up Joachim Gale Olpindo from SM Center Muntinlupa, and 2nd runner-up Mara Hestia Caballero from SM City Cebu. Back row, left to right: National University Senior Director for Admissions Dr. Christina Corpuz, Goldilocks Bakeshop Head of Corporate Communications Ley Laksamana, Goldilocks Bakeshop Public Relations and Partnerships Associate Kyleth Paralejas, GMA Consulting Head for Talent Imaging and Marketing Lawrence Tan, SM Supermalls’ Senior Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin, SM Supermalls’ Assistant Vice President for Marketing Hanna Carinna Sy, and SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan[/caption] [caption id="attachment_202094" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Grand Prize winners Aljon Christoff Banaira from SM City San Pablo (2nd from left) and Jourdanne Baldonido from SM City Dasmarinas (center) with, from left to right, 1st runner-up Eduardo Joson II from SM Megacenter Cabanatuan, 3rd runner-up Joachim Gale Olpindo from SM Center Muntinlupa, and 2nd runner-up Mara Hestia Caballero from SM City Cebu. Back row, left to right: Hosts Xian Lim and 2017 Girl Grand Winner Gaea Mischa, judges Teacher Georcelle Dapat-Sy of G-Force, Direk Joey Reyes, Sam Concepcion, 2013 3rd runner-up Esang de Torres, and 2013 Boy Grand Winner Nhikzy Calma[/caption] It was a night to remember for seven-year-olds Aljon Christoff Banaira and Jourdanne Baldonido, who emerged as winners among the 28 grand finalists in the competition. It was a fierce battle of talent, confidence, and personality, with every participant showcasing their skills in dancing, singing, acting, declaiming and playing instruments. With over P9 Million worth of prizes up for grabs, the two Grand Winners went home with a brand-new Suzuki S-presso Special Edition MT MC worth over P600,000, a one-year talent contract at Sparkle GMA Artist Center, a full college scholarship at National University, and a five-day and four-night trip for two to Hong Kong. Additional prizes include a total of P100,000 in cash and SM gift certificates (P50,000 in cash and P50,000 worth of SM gift certificates), P30,000 worth of Toy Kingdom gift cards, an annual pass certificate for unlimited bowling and skating valid for one year, 30 regular ride tickets at SM by the Bay Amusement Park / Sky Ranch, and gift vouchers for a two-night stay with breakfast for two at Radisson Blu Cebu. Completing the list of winners were SM Megacenter Cabanatuan's Eduardo Joson II (1st runner-up), SM City Cebu's Mara Hestia Caballero (2nd runner-up), SM Center Muntinlupa's Joachim Gale Olpindo (3rd runner-up), SM City Clark's Hayley Cairee Miclat (Top 6), SM City Masinag's Jayson De Paz, Jr. (Top 7), SM City Bicutan's Graciella Zahzih Flojo (Top 8), SM City Cebu's Karlyle Miguel Corbeta (Top 9), and SM City Batangas' Marrem Angel Martinez (Top 10). [caption id="attachment_202095" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] 2013 Boy Grand Winner Nhikzy Calma[/caption] [caption id="attachment_202096" align="aligncenter" width="400"] 2013 3rd runner-up Esang de Torres[/caption] [caption id="attachment_202097" align="aligncenter" width="394"] SM City Clark’s Hayley Cairee Miclat[/caption] [caption id="attachment_202098" align="aligncenter" width="342"] SM City Masinag’s Jayson De Paz Jr.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_202099" align="aligncenter" width="377"] SM City Bicutan’s Graciella Zahzih Flojo[/caption] [caption id="attachment_202100" align="aligncenter" width="367"] SM City Cebu's Karlyle Miguel Corbeta[/caption] [caption id="attachment_202101" align="aligncenter" width="633"] SM City Batangas’ Marrem Angel Martinez[/caption] Now on its 14th year, the SM Little Stars is a celebration of young talent and a testament to the outstanding platform that SM provides for these budding stars. This year alone, the competition saw over 33,000 young individuals who shared their talents from 70 SM malls nationwide. [caption id="attachment_202102" align="aligncenter" width="1430"] The 28 grand finalists showcase their skills and talents.[/caption] To know more about SM Little Stars 2023, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow SM Supermalls on social media. .....»»
Fajardo is GAB’s Boxer of the Month for August
CEBU CITY, Philippines — Knockout artist Miel “Silent Assassin” Fajardo’s latest triumphs in the ring didn’t go unnoticed as the Games and Amusements Board (GAB) named him the “Boxer of the Month” for August. This was officially announced by GAB on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 via a social media post. READ: Fajardo wrests OPBF light.....»»
Adding value to memorial properties
Like all investments, memorial properties must continue to add value to succeed and thrive by enhancing their services and setting themselves apart from the competition. As customer preference shifts toward cremation and lower burials, funeral homes compete with e-commerce. In the face of this competition, Golden Haven Memorial Parks successfully implemented various aesthetic upgrades to deliver an exceptional customer experience for Filipino families and investors seeking to purchase memorial properties. Golden Haven’s upgrades began at its flagship property, Golden Haven Las Piñas, where a pet play area is now under construction. This unique pet-friendly feature sets Golden Haven apart in the memorial property sector, allowing families to enjoy their park visits. At the same time, their beloved pets, some of which may have belonged to their departed loved ones, can romp and play freely. Meanwhile, Golden Haven Norzagaray’s Aero Columbarium has undergone a vibrant transformation. Collaborating with a talented artist, Golden Haven has infused the dome with striking colors and intricate designs inspired by the park’s ‘jardin tropicale’ theme. This masterpiece seamlessly blends artistry and nature’s beauty, offering a visually stunning tribute to those who have passed on. Golden Haven Manaoag, renowned for its serene ambiance, has unveiled their latest masterpiece, the Romanesque-style Puerta Real. This architectural marvel, which takes inspiration from the classic landmarks of Ancient Rome, is envisioned to enhance visitors’ and memorial property owners’ overall experience. Meanwhile, Golden Haven Amadeo now displays a vibrant hand-painted mural at its entrance. Called “Entresuelo de Baracco,” the captivating artwork embodies the park’s loving spirit and warmly welcomes all visitors. Visitors may also indulge in strolls on the park’s newly completed pathwalk that meanders through verdant landscapes. Additionally, Golden Haven Amadeo’s investors and property buyers will enjoy ease of transactions during park visits when construction of its site office is finally completed. Still on a roll, Golden Haven Padre Garcia and Golden Haven Liliw now boast artistic and cultural enhancements, completing their gates inspired by Japanese Minimalism and a “Pamana” theme, respectively. The memorial park developer also shares that the construction of two new bridges at Island Lagoon in Golden Haven Cebu has been completed, adding to the park’s beauty and enhancing visitors’ overall experience. On the functional side, security and convenience are ensured at Golden Haven San Jose, where construction of a gate and guardhouse is underway. Golden Haven is likewise completing construction work on the gates and guard houses of Golden Haven Koronadal and Golden Haven Bukidnon. Finally, preparations are underway to commence construction in Golden Haven Puerto and Iligan. Despite being recently launched, these parks rapidly expand their regional presence, fulfilling Golden Haven’s vision of thematic beauty and tranquility. Even as Golden Haven’s park upgrades are set to exceed expectations, it has more positive revelations: Golden Haven has transitioned over half of all its properties nationwide to solar energy. This eco-friendly initiative highlights the company’s assurance of a sustainable future while providing investors with a valuable asset. Today, park visitors can indulge in the tranquil beauty of Golden Haven properties, knowing that the park operates entirely on clean energy. The post Adding value to memorial properties appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
FACES OF CEBU: Boots Brandon, tattoo artist and entrepreneur
In the bustling streets of Makati, a renowned tattoo artist, business owner, and father of two girls has made his mark. Boots Brandon, a seasoned tattoo artist with over 16 years of experience, has transitioned from a humble beginning in Cebu to owning and operating the popular Redeemed Tattoo shop. His journey is one The post FACES OF CEBU: Boots Brandon, tattoo artist and entrepreneur appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
‘Art you can carry’
This is what homegrown brand FINO Leatherware calls its first collaborative artist-led project featuring the works of Kara Pangilinan. [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="172271,172272"] Kara Pangilinan at work. [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="172270,172273"] FINO Leatherware has always grounded its brand philosophy on Filipino artistry. FINO x KARA is a one-off collection of bags that features the artist’s hand paintings, dated and signed, and accompanied by a certificate of authentication. The 30-piece series is an ode to heritage with Pangilinan expressing the themes of local flora and fauna alongside the Filipina’s evolved identity. Slender palm fronds, gumamela and sampaguita flowers emerge from the bags’ panels, the leather’s varying colors from bright red to pastel hues setting off Pangilinan’s black and white strokes. The artist’s portraits of womenin traditional garb bridge generations, with one in particular revealing the gaze of a strong, modern Filipina. Since its founding back in 1992, FINO Leatherware has always grounded its brand philosophy on Filipino artistry, from the craftsmen to the creatives who’ve conceptualized collections. Its most recent campaigns paid tribute to Filipino culture, to include a wrist purse called Sipa, which is inspired by a local game, the Vinta bags and clutches that evoke the sailing tradition of Mindanao, and the Puso bags which takes its shape from a staple of Cebu’s street food — rice wrapped in banana leaves. Pangilinan was a student of architecture at the University of the Philippines when she began to try her hand at art. After earning her degree, she worked in an architectural firm for a few months before deciding on becoming a full-time artist. Murals and commercial works for brands such as Heineken, Globe and YouTube defined the early phase of Pangilinan’s journey. Simultaneously, she was developing a more personal practice, exploring various thematic concepts and her favored medium at that time, ink on paper. In the years that followed, Pangilinan diversified into acrylic painting to exploit the full color spectrum of the medium. For her collaboration with FINO, however, the artist returns to the palette that has defined the early phase of her career. The collection is introduced by none other than Miss Philippines Universe 2020 first runner-up Bella Ysmael, who epitomizes FINO’s ideal Filipina. She graces the FINO x KARA campaign which announces the release of the collection, available by the end of September in FINO’s flagship store in Rockwell’s Power Plant Mall. [gallery columns="2" size="full" ids="172279,172280"] “Having Bella on board was important for us,” says FINO co-founder Rose Ann Bautista. “We wanted the right woman to represent not just the new collection, but our new direction as well.” The post ‘Art you can carry’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Montblanc Masters of Art collection pays homage to Vincent van Gogh
The recent launch of the Montblanc Masters of Art Collection at the White Space had Manila’s social set ogling and appreciating the number one pen’s latest offerings to its discriminating users — the Montblanc Masters of Art Homage to Vincent van Gogh Limited Edition 4810, the Montblanc Masters of Art Homage to Vincent van Gogh Limited Edition 888, and the Montblanc Masters of Art Homage to Vincent van Gogh Limited Edition 161. On hand to welcome Manila’s glitterati were Rustan’s Commercial Corporation’s president Donnie Tantoco and Montblanc SEA Regional marketing director Benjamin Goh. [caption id="attachment_167778" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Donnie Tantoco, Rustan’s Commercial Corporation president, and Dina Tantoco.[/caption] [gallery size="full" ids="167775,167777,167779"] The first offering a limited-edition writing instrument with a fountain pen and a rollerball version — celebrates Vincent van Gogh’s time in Arles with design details evoking the Provençal wheat fields and one of his most famous paintings, Sunflowers. The second evokes the artist’s time in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Auvers-sur-Oise with details reflecting the Provençal skies and one of his most famous paintings, Wheatfield with Crows. Finally, the third, an edition with a limitation of 161 captures the artist’s final years in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Auvers-sur-Oise with design details reflecting his last work, Tree Roots, among others. [caption id="attachment_167783" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Montblanc Masters of Art Homage to Vincent van Gogh Limited Edition 161.[/caption] This exquisite collection succeeds the Montblanc Patron of Art collection, concluding after 30 years as Montblanc has shifted its focus to the masters themselves. Synonymous with excellence in craftsmanship and design, Montblanc has been pushing the boundaries of innovation ever since the Maison first revolutionized the culture of writing in 1906. Montblanc is available at Rustan’s Makati, Rustan’s Shangri-La, Rustan’s Cebu, Greenbelt 5, City of Dreams and Solaire Resort Entertainment City. The post Montblanc Masters of Art collection pays homage to Vincent van Gogh appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Ebe Dancel to headline first major concert in Cebu City
Filipino singer-songwriter Ebe Dancel will be staging his first major concert in Cebu on 5 August at the Pacific Grand Ballroom in the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino. Presented by GNN Entertainment Productions and Artist Ko Multi-purpose Cooperative in partnership with Balcony Entertainment, Ebe Dancel Live In Cebu will feature his career-spanning work as a solo artist and as the frontman of the iconic pop-rock band Sugarfree. “Ebe Dancel’s first major concert in Cebu is long overdue,” Artist Ko Multi-purpose Cooperative Vice Chairman Jude Gitamondoc shares in a press statement. “Ebe has a lot of solid fans in the Visayas, and we want them to experience Ebe’s artistry closer to home. Cebuanos love Ebe because he is authentic. His songs have grit, intellect and integrity, the stuff we expect and value in our own artists. We can’t wait for Cebuanos to experience all that in the flesh come August 5.” Aside from Dancel’s headlining set, the highly anticipated show will also mark the big-screen debut of the Sa Wakas documentary, which was shot and produced early this year to mark the 20th anniversary of the landmark album. Its director, producer and creator Cyrian Agujo will be attending and presenting the film for the first time to the Cebu audience. Guest performances from Manila and Cebu acts will also be revealed in the coming days/weeks, handpicked by Dancel himself. With critically acclaimed albums, sold-out concerts and chart-topping songs under his belt, Dancel has established himself as one of the biggest pop/rock crossovers of the last two decades. His biggest hits include “Huwag Ka Nang Umiyak,” “Hari Ng Sablay,” “Mariposa,” “Burn Out,” “Tulog Na,” “Prom,” “Telepono,” “Cuida,” “Bawat Daan” and more. Tickets to Ebe Dancel Live In Cebu are available via bit.ly/ebexcebu. The post Ebe Dancel to headline first major concert in Cebu City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Beauty takes shape
Let Catriona Gray tell you a thing or two about shape-shifting. The elasticity of her career is the ultimate framework: from being a Filipino-Scottish model hailing from Australia, to Miss World Philippines 2016, to singer with a degree in Music Theory, to a black-belted Choi Kwang Do martial artist, to Miss Universe 2018, it’s clear […] The post Beauty takes shape appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
LOOK: John Lloyd Cruz, rumored GF enjoy dinner cruise in Thailand
John Lloyd Cruz and his rumored girlfriend, artist Isabel Santos, have gone on another trip together and were seen enjoying a dinner cruise along Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, Thailand. The pair were seated next to each other while surrounded with several other companions, as seen in the photos shared by one @lethygorl on her […] The post LOOK: John Lloyd Cruz, rumored GF enjoy dinner cruise in Thailand appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
From PH to the ‘Spider-Verse’: Artist Ronald Samson on his ‘date’ with Hollywood
If you loved the Oscar-winning 2018 animated feature “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” as much as we did, you’re in for a bigger and bolder treat when its sequel, “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” begins its theatrical run in the Philippines on Wednesday. Don’t take our word for it. Take it from the film’s lighting and compositing […] The post From PH to the ‘Spider-Verse’: Artist Ronald Samson on his ‘date’ with Hollywood appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Matteo Guidicelli livens up GMA-7’s morning show ‘Unang Hirit’
"May karibal na si Atom Araullo sa GMA Public Affairs programs sa kaguwapuhan!" That's the talk in some circles since Thursday, 11 May, when it was announced that showbiz idol Matteo Guidecelli has officially joined GMA Public Affairs, the division where Araullo, Jessica Soho, Mel Tiangco, Mike Enriquez, Cara David and Ivan Mayrina belong. [caption id="attachment_133078" align="aligncenter" width="1734"] PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF GMA-7 Matteo Guidicelli is now a Kapuso.[/caption] It's a division totally different from the network's entertainment TV, which puts up shows like the new Voltes V: The Legacy and Maria Clara at Ibarra. Guidecelli received a grand welcome during the contract-signing and media conference at Vertis Seda Hotel attended by top network executives. GMA Network Chairman and CEO Felipe Gozon welcomed Guidicelli through a video message. The network's Public Affairs produces the newsy morning show Unang Hirit which immediately absorbed Guidicelli as one of its hosts beginning last Monday, 15 May. The same division also produces the well-followed drama anthology Magpakailanman, hosted by Tiango. The division is all set to produce an action-drama primetime series dubbed Black Rider with Guidicelli, a champion car racer for some years before he entered showbiz, joining GMA 7-managed star Ruru Madrid as lead actor. Will the husband of superstar Sarah Geronimo have a chance to do documentaries like the ones Araullo has become famous and highly-esteemed for? Declared GMA Public Affairs' recent statement about their new asset (shared with Viva Artist Agency which still manages Guidicelli): "... And with GMA Public Affairs being the home of world-class and award-winning Filipino documentaries, Matteo will be part of a documentary special about nature." Added the GMA statement: "Viewers should also watch out for Matteo’s upcoming shows in GMA, including exciting projects with GMA Regional TV and Synergy." First day Guidicelli is also slated to play with a team in Family Feud, the quiz show vibrantly hosted by Dingdong Dantes. It's not known yet who Guidicelli will recruit to his team. Would Viva Artists Agency allow Geronimo to join him in Family Feud? Geronimo is still a top Kapamilya star. On his first day in Unang Hirit, Guidicelli turned up in a casual get-up of light blue long-sleeves, white pants and white rubber shoes. His co-hosts welcomed him with what they called "start-up gift packs" ranging from an alarm clock and coffee flask to a motorcycle from Arnold Clavio (the brand must be one of the show's sponsors). The actor greeted the show's viewers in Filipino and in Cebuano, since he grew up in Cebu. He also greeted the love of his life who he said was watching the show even as they stayed up late Sunday night watching Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho. The new man on the house is also a well-known chef, and cooking breakfast for his co-hosts became his first task on the show. He jauntily revealed that at home he really does a lot of cooking "para lang sa asawa," whom he unfailingly greeted with “Hello, Love”. It's great and refreshing to watch a married, handsome and youthful man greeting his wife in the morning five days a week. Guidicelli is now 33, and Geronimo will be 35 in July this year. Let's wait and see how Guidicelli would turn up in the realm of documentaries. Will he just be a glamorous narrator-host or will he go out and get the stories himself? Would he be as daring and fearless as Araullo in his documentaries? Guidicelli has had military training with the Philippine Army. And he was a daring car racer, remember? New public-service program Meanwhile, GMA Public Affairs now has a multi-platform public service program on Sundays, its first to be aired both on TV and on radio, plus other Kapuso platforms. Resibo: Walang Lusot Ang May Atraso is hosted by journo Emil Sumangi, who is a co-host of Kim Atienza and Patricia Tumulak on the daily news magazine show at 5:30 pm. Resibo is Sumangil's first solo TV program after several years of being a field reporter on GMA 7. It was launched on 7 May. The public is invited to reach out to Resibo for complaints and grievances via the hotline number 0917-7RESIBO, e-mail resibo@gmanetwork.com and its Facebook page. They can also visit GMA Action Center, Kapuso Center Building, GMA Network Drive, Diliman in Quezon City. Resibo: Walang Lusot ang May Atraso airs 5 p.m. on GMA, GTV, DZBB Super Radyo and GMA Public Affairs’ Facebook, YouTube and Tiktok livestream. The post Matteo Guidicelli livens up GMA-7’s morning show ‘Unang Hirit’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
First Panambal Festival promotes Siquijor’s folk healing practices
[caption id="attachment_123658" align="aligncenter" width="558"] Photographs by Roel Hoang Manipon for the daily tribune | Common healing oils, concoctions, haplas and tambal used in Siquijor.[/caption] At the junction of Tañon Strait, Cebu Strait and Bohol Sea, in Central Visayas, the island of Siquijor has been inspiring fascination and curiosity mainly because of its reputation of being a home to many practitioners of sorcery, witchcraft and folk medicine, and its often being described as “mystic.” Whenever I was in Dumaguete City, in the neighboring province of Negros Oriental, I could see the island from the coastal boulevard, a fuzzy landscape floating on the sea, shrouded in mystery. My only images about it were culled from television shows featuring sorcery practices, particularly of a man who made paper dolls dance. Last Holy Week, through the very first Panambal Festival, I was able to step foot on the island province, which is about an hour’s ferry ride from Dumaguete City, and know more about the culture, particularly the folk and traditional healing practices, of one of the smallest provinces of the Philippines. [caption id="attachment_123661" align="aligncenter" width="747"] photographs by Roel Hoang Manipon for the daily tribune | Olang Arts Park in Maria was the venue for the first Panambal Festival.[/caption] We arrived at night in the town of Maria, in the southeast portion of the island, and during late dinner, we heard the story of Maria Nico, the resident engkanto of the town, together with his sisters Maria Nica and Maria Luisa, told by the town’s tourism officer, the loquacious and always flamboyantly dressed Aldrin “Aldrina Braxton” Daguman. Said to be tall, handsome and fair-complexioned, Maria Nico seemed to be a benevolent character, often granting wishes of people. Aldrina said that once millions of pesos worth of furniture was delivered to Maria but the recipient was unknown. People attributed this to Maria Nico. Stories about him bear some similar details to stories of Maria Kakaw of Cebu, Olayra of Antique and other engkanto characters in other parts of the Visayas. Local lore of mystical beings before we got to see the island was a very apt introduction. [caption id="attachment_123664" align="aligncenter" width="742"] The opening of the Panambal Festival led by Maria mayor Roselyn Asok.[/caption] The folk and traditional practices are what many people in Siquijor want to highlight and promote, and a cultural and touristic festival was created for that. Using the Cebuano word for “to heal” or “healing,” “tambal,” the Panambal Festival was held in the town of Maria, spearheaded by the local government, led by its mayor Roselyn Tancio Asok and co-organized with Eufemia “Minnie” Solomon Crouse and Anna Lacpao Tabujara Cornelia of the Olang Arts Park, the main venue of the festival in the barangay of Olang. The festival was conceptualized by veteran events organizer and tourism planner Nilo Agustin, who lives in Metro Manila but considers Siquijor a home, with the crucial help of 43-year-old folk healer and visual artist Junel Tomaroy. [caption id="attachment_123660" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Junel Tomaroy, one Siquijor’s traditional healers.[/caption] The Panambal Festival is not Siquijor’s first festival highlighting local pananambal. The province has been holding the Pahi-uli Festival since 2010 in Mount Bandilaan, a 212-hectare forest reserve in Maria. The mountain is the highest point of the island and is an important source of plants used in folk medicine and concoctions. According to Agustin, the event has become too commercialized, and Panambal Festival aims to present more authentic practices and spotlight the traditional healers. Both festivals are held on Holy Week, particularly from Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday, which is a very important time for local folk healing. During this time, haplas or healing oil, tambal or remedy and other potions are concocted. According to Tomaroy, considered one of the most reputable mananambal or practitioner of folk and traditional medicine, in Siquijor, they start gathering ingredients on Friday after Ash Wednesday and continue only every Friday, culminating on Good Friday. They can only gather ingredients and make concoctions during this time of the year, the Lenten season, on seven Fridays. [caption id="attachment_123665" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Traditional healer Ricardo Oyog doing the haplas.[/caption] Folk healing in Siquijor is a blend of practices that appear old, animistic and of pre-Christianization and Catholic religiosity, with the use primarily of concoctions, prayers and rituals and faith. The people of Siquijor are predominantly of Cebuano ethnicity as much of Central Visayas which includes Cebu, Negros Oriental and Bohol. Catholicism is a strong presence in the island, which has a number of old churches, as in most parts of the country. The neighboring Cebu is where Christianity first gain foothold. But remnants of native Visayan Cebuano culture survive. The Panambal Festival opened on 7 April with a short program at the three-and-half-hectare Olang Arts Park, which was established in 2005 by Crouse, who hails from Pangasinan. According to organizers, the festival aims to feature the arts as well as traditional healing. A visual arts exhibit was also opened, showcasing works, mostly depicting healing practices, by Siquijodnon artists of the Pahiuli Artists Collective—Tomaroy, Joven Y. Ansing, Vicente C. Looc, Jr., Peter G. Agan, Dubonga Jorom, Louie Gabucan, Malvin E. Lomosad and Dondon dela Victoria. Performances of the young Olang Arts Park Orchestra were also featured. The next day, Good Friday, healers demonstrated steps in making concoctions and oils, and conduction healing sessions in a cluster of huts surrounded by mahogany trees. One common healing practice is the tuob or suob, a kind of body fumigation, for a variety of ailments and to drive away general bad vibes or spirits. The minasa, a black dry concoction, is burned inside a dry coconut husk to create palina or healing smoke and is place under the patient who is wrapped with a blanket or malong. [caption id="attachment_123666" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Tuob using fumigation is a common healing practice.[/caption] In one corner, Ricardo “Ricky” Oyog doing the haplas, application of healing oil on the feet and legs, massaging them with their version of reflexology. The 55-year-old mananambal, a former radio operator from Caitican, Siquijor, Siquijor, also had common oils and remedies for sale. These concoctions include himughat, a dry mixture of wood chips and bark of different plants believed to be medicinal. At P250 per bag, the himughat is mixed into vino or wine or any alcoholic drink, letting it steep. A shot or a tablespoon or two is recommended for fatigue or general tiredness, for headache, dysmenorrhea and kidney ailments. The haplas sa panuhot is an oil concoction for lamig or bodily aches. It is also used for buntis (pregnancy), pamanhod (numbness), pamaol (muscle ache), and arthritis. The tambal sa hilo ug daot is a treatment for as well as panagang or defense against poisoning and paninira (slander, defamation) and jealousy and envy, which is a kind of poisoning. It is also used to treat pangatol or itching. There were also concoctions in small vials, to be placed in the cash box to bring luck in business, and in amulets, a general charm. Other participating healers were Daniela Sartin, Gibrint Edd D. Reyes, Dodong Amboludto, Jomar Enanor, Dean Mark Enanor, Tessie Calimpon and Delia Bajo. On Good Friday, the mananambals performed the adlip on the gathered woods, stems and branches of different plants and trees, which they have gathered during the season. There were several kinds and the healers know by their local names such as tagnipas, duguan, tabun-hangin, etc. There are kinds they call pahiuli or restoration plants. According to Josel B. Mansueto, a professor at the Siquijor State College who have conducted studies on the island’s folk healing practices, mananambals use 377 varieties or kinds of plants. The forests and mountains are sources of these. Other sources of other ingredients are caves (stalactite, earth, etc.), the sea (anything that causes itching or irritation, bearing toxins, etc.), the church (holy water, flowers offered on funerals, candles, etc.). Pag-aadlip involves chopping the woods and stems into smaller pieces. On this day, they also do the pag-uuling, the burning of collected materials to be used as ingredients in the making of minasa. On Black Saturday, Tomaroy led in pagmamasa, the preparation of the minasa. A large kawali was placed over fire and ingredients were put in, which included beeswax, candles, incense, tawas, kamanyang, tuba, honey, soil from the floor of a langub (cave), lana or coconut oil, pahi-uli wood, uling and many others. [caption id="attachment_123662" align="aligncenter" width="728"] Preparing the minasa to used to make palina for the tuob.[/caption] The black mixture was frequently stirred until the healer deemed it ready. Aside from tuob, the minasa is also used in producing anting-anting or amulet or charm. On Easter Sunday, the paglalana was done. It is the process extracting coconut oil. They scraped off the meat out of coconuts using the kudkuran. The most potent coconut comes from the “bugtong na niyog na nakaharap sa silangan,” or a lone coconut facing the east. Every batch must contain at least one. If more, they must be in odd numbers, such three or five. Lana made with coconuts facing the west and used in even numbers (two, four, etc) is for pangkukulam/pambabarang or witchcraft. They squeezed the milk out of the grated coconut meat. Only kakang-gata, the milk of the first squeezing or extraction, is used. The milk was boiled over fire until the oil came out after about two hours and was then separated from other particles. The lana or coconut oil is an attracting agent as well as a vehicle to deliver the efficacy of the herbs and other ingredients. The popular lumay is also concocted during Easter Sunday. It is also known as gayuma or love potion but lumay gererally is meant to attract positive vibes and good fortune not only in love and romance but also in business, career and even marital and family life. [caption id="attachment_123657" align="aligncenter" width="752"] Flowers, seeds, twigs and other ingredients for making lumay, popularly known as gayuma.[/caption] Lumay is concocted during Easter Sunday because many ingredients are gathered from materials used in salubong and other Easter events and practices of the church such as leaves and flower decors. It can be concocted by anyone if one knows the ingredients. Some of the ingredients in making lumay include tawa-tawa, amorseko, buhok sa hangin, lagay-lagay, makahiya or mimosa, rosary pea seeds, sampinit, kadena de amor, and likup-likup. These are gathered and put in a bottle together with perfume or honey. Dab some perfume on the skin or smear a little honey on the lips, the healer advised. Tawa-tawa is used maybe because the fruits are phallic, and the likup-likup, maybe because they cling to the trees. The plants’ perceived characteristics as well as their names indicate what powers they can add to the potion. One ingredient is the curious, bag-shaped plant called lagay-lagay sa amo, the Hydnophytum plant that grows on tree branches and trunks, and is structured like an ant colony, thus it is called the ant plant. The mananambal includes it their healing oil concoctions to treat bukol or swellings or tumor-like symptoms as well as goiter, and certain types of cancer. The name means testicles and it is also included in the concoction of lumay because of its sexual connotation. While the lumay making was going on, an Easter egg hunt was organized for the children, a seemingly incongruent inclusion in the festival. But the hunt is also a practice with old, paganistic roots, with eggs and bunnies as symbols of fertility, like the healing practices, an amalgam of native and Catholic beliefs. Agustin has been planning for the next holding of the Panambal Festival. He has invited the Aralan ng Gamutang Pilipino, led by Dr. Isidro C. Sia, convenor and executive director of Integrative Medicine for Alternative Healthcare Systems Philippines, to hold its national convention during the festival. Organizers also envisioned having traditional healers from different parts of the country, such as mumbaki of the Ifugao and healers of the Ati of Negros Island, as guest participants. An herbarium has been started, with an ambition of growing all the plant ingredients used in pananambal. All these are for the vision of making Siquijor the healing center of the country. The post First Panambal Festival promotes Siquijor’s folk healing practices appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Cebu BPO workers group’s fundraising show features queer artists
An organization of business process outsourcing (BPO) workers in Cebu mounted a show, “Hey Cebu, Ano Naaah?: Show for A Cause” on 2 April at the University of the Philippines Cebu Performing Arts Theater on Gorordo Avenue in Lahug, Cebu City, Cebu. [caption id="attachment_119835" align="aligncenter" width="602"] Photograph courtesy of Twitter.com/lavieenrozeeee | ‘Drag Den’ winner Naia Black.[/caption] The fundraising show, produced by Angat Cebu BPO under Bangon Inc., was headlined by queer singer-songwriter Nica del Rosario and drag artist Naia Black, who won at the first season of the drag competition series Drag Den. The Metro Manila-based artists were joined by Cebu drag performers Maria Lava and Piayuuuh and the drag group Cebu Divettes. Lloyd Abesia, Claire Anne Yongco and Kayla Barrientos, who are products of the singing competition Sinulog Idol, and spoken word artist Alfonso Manalastas also performed at the event. A highlight of the event is video message from former Vice President Leni Robredo, who is credited for inspiring the formation of these volunteer groups. An attendee commented on Twitter that “her remarkable personality instilled hope in us that a clean government is attainable. She has been instrumental in inspiring volunteerism, and her pursuit of transparency in government has been truly remarkable. Although she ran in the 2022 election and defeat, for us, she remains a true winner.” One of Robredo’s plans was to strengthen the maritime and BPO industries of the island province in central Philippines. LGBTQ+ health advocacy group LoveYourself Cebu also took part at the event, which also served as the launch of Angat BPO Cebu, providing free and confidential HIV screening and giving away condoms and lubricants. According to Angat BPO Cebu, proceeds of the show will go to projects on providing education and career opportunities to the youth and that will benefit their partner communities and schools. The post Cebu BPO workers group’s fundraising show features queer artists appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»