Lea umaming natakot nang bumalik sa US: I asked my manager if I would be safe…
MALALIM ang hugot ng international singer na si Lea Salonga patungkol sa pagiging presidente ng Amerika ni Donald Trump. Hot topic ngayon sa buong mundo ang presidential elections sa US kung saan tinalo nga ni Joe Biden si Trump. Ayon sa singer-actress, makakahinga na rin siya ngayon nang maluwag kapag magtutungo sa Amerika hindi tulad […] The post Lea umaming natakot nang bumalik sa US: I asked my manager if I would be safe… appeared first on Bandera......»»
Bumalik po sana kayo sa sine : Vilma Santos asks Filipinos to support MMFF 2023
“Star for All Seasons” Vilma Santos asked Filipinos to go back to the cinemas and support this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). .....»»
Bong Go to DSWD: Help uplift lives in the grassroots
During a public hearing on the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) budget, Senator Christopher "Bong Go" expressed his strong support for the department's financial allocation and took the opportunity to seek crucial updates on two major welfare programs: the Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa (BP2) program and the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). Go acknowledged the difficult situation many provincial migrants face in Metro Manila, especially during the pandemic. “Alam n'yo naman po nitong panahon po ng pandemya ay marami pong mga kababayan natin na mga probinsyano na natutulog na lang po diyan sa sidewalk dahil wala silang kamag-anak, wala silang tirahan, gusto nilang bumalik ng probinsya,” said Go. Go underscored the significance of the BP2 Program, and said that it was established through an executive order by former president Rodrigo Duterte. The Senate adopted a resolution in 2020, principally sponsored by Sen. Go, urging the executive department to formulate and implement a “Balik Probinsya” program. DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian affirmed the program's effectiveness and the government's commitment to continue the program. “This is a very good program that we inherited, that we planned to keep and, in fact, use all the time. For the record, ang na-serve natin ho for 2023 is 2,426 out of the target na 4,572 families. Ang financial allocation n'ya is P3.5 billion thereabouts, at ang nagamit ho is P1 billion or 29 percent,” Gatchalian said. In 2020, Duterte signed Executive Order No. 114 which institutionalized the said program. As one of the main proponents of the BP2 Program, Go has earlier said that promoting employment and livelihood opportunities in the countryside will boost regional development consistent with the long-term goals of the program that is set to be fully implemented after the COVID-19 crisis. Meanwhile, DSWD plans to expand the program to include other types of interventions for families living in the streets. Gatchalian said, "'Yung BP2 is something that we want to expand, to include other types of intervention na magagamit sa mga pamilya na nakatira sa lansangan." Gatchalian also acknowledged that while local government units have responsibilities, DSWD has launched a mainstay program to assist families and individuals living on the streets. He said when these families return to their provinces, they receive community livelihood grants, which are monitored by the local government units. Go then inquired if street dwellers and beggars are also included in the program. Gatchalian confirmed their inclusion, saying, "Kasama po because we found out that a lot of them are actually stuck in Metro Manila na gustong umuwi rin, kasama na po sila." When asked where these individuals are temporarily housed, Gatchalian explained that the goal is not to keep them in housing facilities but to help them return to their provinces. Shifting attention to the 4Ps, Go highlighted that former president Duterte enhanced the standard benefits for beneficiaries. While the former president initially considered distributing rice, the decision was ultimately made to offer cash assistance instead. Gatchalian confirmed that an extra P600 has been added to the benefits under Duterte's term. He also elaborated that the amount given to beneficiaries depends on the family's circumstances. The maximum amount ranges from P3500 to P3800, depending on the number of school-aged children in the family. When Go asked about the number of 4Ps members, Gatchalian pointed out that the number is capped at 4.4 million families due to budget constraints. “Just to point out, nakasaad po sa GAA (General Appropriations Act) na lagi pong 4.4 million ang numero nila. So, hindi po sila dumadami; hanggang doon lang ang budget allocation. Sana mas lumaki pa dahil maraming waitlisted, pero ang allowed lang sa amin is 4.4 million families,” the Secretary said. Gatchalian also discussed the conditions under which families "graduate" from the program. Families may leave the program if they reach the seven-year limit, no longer meet the conditions, or fail to attend development sessions. At the height of the pandemic, Go appealed to the government to provide cash incentives to vaccinated 4Ps members to encourage more of them to get their COVID-19 vaccines instead of making vaccination mandatory. Such incentives will be on top of what 4Ps beneficiaries receive in accordance with the law. The post Bong Go to DSWD: Help uplift lives in the grassroots appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go urges more sports funding for grassroots dev’t, facilities, and athletes
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, underscored during a budget hearing on Tuesday, 12 September, the critical role of the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) in promoting sports as a key factor in national development. He emphasized the necessity of adequate funding for both grassroots sports development and the country's participation in international competitions. “Noong nakaraan ay ipinaglaban natin sa deliberasyon ng ating 2023 budget ang karagdagang pondo para sa PSC. Sa katunayan, ang budget lang sana ng PSC ngayong taon ay nasa humigit-kumulang P200 million lamang. Tayo ang nagsulong ng dagdag sa pondo nila kaya nabigyan pa ito ng P1 billion, kasama na ang dagdag pondo sa pagdaraos ng FIBA 2023, budget para sa grassroots sports programs, at suporta sa mga lalahok sa iba pang international competitions,” he cited earlier. Go, in his opening statement, expressed his strong belief that sports can serve as a deterrent for the youth against engaging in illegal drugs and other harmful activities. He also mentioned that sports can be a way to continue the campaign against illegal drugs initiated by former president Rodrigo Duterte. “Sabi ko nga, get into sports, stay away from illegal drugs to keep us healthy and fit. At isa rin po ito sa paraan na ilayo natin ang mga kabataan sa iligal na droga. Isang paraan ito na maipagpatuloy ang kampanya ni dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte na labanan ang iligal na droga dahil kapag bumalik po ang iligal na droga, babalik po ang kriminalidad, babalik po ang korapsyon sa gobyerno,” Go said. The senator also highlighted the recent achievements of the Philippines in the international sports community, including the successful hosting of the 2023 FIBA World Cup. He praised the event organizers and shared his experience participating in a dry-run before the opening, emphasizing that "’pag nandyan po ang disiplina, kaya natin, gugustuhin natin na maging well-organized po tayo." Go likewise underscored the international attention that the Philippines has garnered through its successful hosting of sports events, particularly the FIBA World Cup. "Malaking tulong po iyon sa pag-promote po ng kagandahan ng ating bansa. For 17 days, nakatutok po sa ating bayan ang buong mundo dahil napakaganda po ng ating bansa," he said. The senator then expressed his pride in Gilas Pilipinas for earning a spot in the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. "Alam ko po na ibinigay ninyo ang lahat, ginawa ninyo po ang lahat para lumaban. Puso po ang ginamit ninyo at 'never say die' ang attitude ng ating Gilas Pilipinas," he said. Go also took the opportunity to commend the country’s performance in the Southeast Asian Games. He then extended his well wishes for the upcoming Asian Games scheduled from 25 September to 8 October. However, the senator also hinted at areas for improvement, suggesting that while the country has had successes, there is still work to be done. "Though mayroon mang dapat ayusin, may panahon pa kayong ayusin ang mga ito," Go added while stressing the importance of supporting both grassroots and elite sports development. "For this year’s budget, with the support of our Chairman of the Committee on Finance, Senator Sonny Angara, we allocated funding for PSC’s grassroots program and the preparation, training, and participation of our national athletes in international sports competitions," he revealed. The PSC proposed a budget of P3.3 billion for 2024, but the DBM only approved P210 million. This is a reduction of more than 93 percent from the agency’s proposal. Go also touched on the need for proper training facilities for athletes. He mentioned the need for repairs at the Philippine Institute of Sports Multi-Purpose Arena (PhilSports Arena) and comfortable barracks for athletes. “Mahalaga na magkaroon ng tama at sapat na training ang ating mga manlalaro. Kaya naman gusto ko ring pagtuunan ng pansin na mayroon tayong sports facilities na maaaring maging training center ng ating mga atleta,” he said. “Ako po'y saksi mismo, napasyalan ko ang inyong matagal ng pasilidad, itong Phil Sports, nakapaglaro na kami doon, medyo tumutulo na rin ang gym. Kailangan na sigurong magkaroon ng repair, at yung mga barracks ng atleta, dapat komportable, dahil iba talaga kapag suportado sila, mula pagkain, yung kanilang tirahan at bago sila sumabak sa competition, dapat kumbaga lahat ng laban naman ay dapat alagang-alaga po ang ating mga atleta,” he shared. Go noticed that the facilities that were presented during the hearing are in bad condition and that they really need to be improved. He urged the government to allocate funds for the construction of comfortable housing for the athletes, instead of spending on flood control projects in areas where there are no people. “Napapansin ko ang mga pasilidad na pinakita kanina. Talagang kailangan po, the more we should invest sa mga sports facilities natin na sira,” he added. “Bigyan naman natin ng maayos at komportable na tirahan ang ating mga atleta. Nananawagan ako sa DPWH, instead of flood control projects sa mga lugar na walang tao, dito na lang sa ating mga atleta na kailangan nila ng komportableng tirahan man lang. Baka pwede ninyo mapaglaanan ng pondo,” said Go. Meanwhile, he also discussed the National Academy of Sports (NAS) at New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac, established under Republic Act No. 11470 that he authored and co-sponsored, which allows students to train while getting quality secondary education. The law provided for the establishment of the NAS System and Main Campus. The NAS also offers a secondary education program with an integrated special curriculum on sports which was developed in close coordination with PSC and the Department of Education. “Pwede silang mag-training, at the same time, mag-aral. Pwede silang mag-aral, at the same time, mag-training. Wala pong masasakripisyo. 'Yan po ang National Academy of Sports, batas na po at may sariling pasilidad,” he said. The senator then called on the PSC to maximize the facilities at New Clark City, initially used for the 2019 Southeast Asian Games. He also reiterated his support for the establishment of the Philippine Sports Training Center and asked for updates on its status. Go urged his colleagues to fight for a sufficient budget for PSC’s programs to ensure continuous sports development in the country. “Kaya naman po hinihimok ko ang ating mga kasamahan na suportahan ang budget ng Philippine Sports Commission at GAB para tuluy-tuloy lang po ang sports development sa ating bansa,” concluded Go. The post Bong Go urges more sports funding for grassroots dev’t, facilities, and athletes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Go calls for continuing campaign vs illegal drugs, criminality
Amid the prevalence of drug cases even involving some members of the Philippine National Police, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has called on the government to adopt stricter and more robust measures to address the persistent challenges of illegal drugs and criminality in the country. In an ambush interview after his visit to Sta. Cruz, Manila on Wednesday, 24 May, Go acknowledged that eradicating illegal drugs and criminality requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing both law enforcement and social reform. Drawing inspiration from the successful campaigns during former president Rodrigo Duterte’s administration, Go expressed that similar strong-arm tactics and approaches are necessary to continue building a safer society. He likewise added that a renewed focus on combating drug issues will contribute to a safer and more secure country. “Ako po ay nasasayangan kung mawala ang inumpisahan ni dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte, ‘yung inumpisahan niyang labanan po itong iligal na droga. Alam n’yo kapag bumalik po ang iligal na droga, babalik po ang korapsyon sa gobyerno, nabibili eh. At babalik po ang kriminalidad, ‘yun po ang takot ko dito. Itong kapulisan medyo kamay na bakal ang kailangan dito. Kailangan talagang takutin,” Go urged. During the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs hearing on Tuesday, 23 May, Go asked the PNP leadership about the possibility of tapping former president Duterte as the government’s anti-drug czar, considering the latter’s campaign saw a notable decline in crime rates. “Ako naman, sabi ko nga prerogative po ‘yan ng appointing authority, ang mahal na Pangulong Bongbong Marcos. Kung saka-sakali naman, malaking tulong po si former president Duterte. Ibig sabihin ang kailangan dito ay talagang kamay na bakal, takutin mo talaga. Pero kailangan may ngipin. Kung gagawin man siyang drug czar dapat may ngipin kasi kapag walang ngipin hindi katatakutan ‘yan,” Go asserted. “Napag-usapan lang po ‘yun dahil talagang dismayado tayo sa mga nadiskubreng kalokohan. Mga pulis pa naman itong mga ito, dapat nga kayo ang magprotekta sa taumbayan, kayo pa ang pumasok sa droga. Alam n’yo bawat isang gramo na kumalat diyan sa daan, ito napakalaking quantity po ito ng droga, ilang buhay na naman kaya ang sisirain nito kapag kumalat ‘yan sa daan. Ilang pamilya ang masisira, ilang buhay ang wawasakin, ilang pamilya ang wawasakin kapag kumalat ang droga na ‘yan. Alam n’yo salot talaga ang droga na ‘yan,” he lamented. Go’s colleague, Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, then expressed his support for the idea, saying, “Ako, personally, maganda sana kasi babalik ang takot ng mga drug syndicates, particularly ‘yung mga pulis na involved—‘yung mga ninja cops. Matatakot at matatakot talaga ‘yan.” The senator also stressed the importance of immediately addressing underlying issues that contribute to these problems. He has called for stronger coordination among various law enforcement agencies to ensure a holistic approach in combating these issues. “Dapat talagang himayin nang mabuti, kasuhan na po ang dapat kasuhan. Ihiwalay po ang mga bulok para hindi makahawa at lumabas po ang katotohanan. At suportado ko si Sen. Bato dela Rosa sa kanyang layuning malaman po ang katotohanan,” underscored Go. “Kaya nga po nagdidinig sa Senado, kaya nga po nagkakaroon tayo ng public hearing sa Public Order Committee para malaman ang katotohanan. Kaya lang parang pinapaikot-ikot na lang po ang istorya at ang iba po’y hindi nagko-cooperate,” he continued. In the end, Go said that he is convinced that President Marcos possesses the necessary determination to implement effective measures that will address the drug problem at its core, highlighting, “Alam ko naman na seryoso po ang ating administrasyon na sugpuin po ang iligal na droga. Nagtitiwala po ako sa leadership ng Philippine National Police, disente po itong taong ito.” “Importante lang dito talaga ay medyo strong position na takutin mo, dapat takutin mo talaga. Kapag hindi mo takutin mamayagpag po ang mga sindikato na ‘yan,” he concluded. The post Go calls for continuing campaign vs illegal drugs, criminality appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
‘Pang-Pilipino talaga ako’: Ryan Bang turns down work offer in S. Korea
Korean television host-comedian Ryan Bang recently revealed that one of the top talent agencies in South Korea, SM Entertainment, had offered him the opportunity to pursue acting and hosting jobs in South Korea. The revelation came out in an episode of Star Magic Celebrity Conversations that was released on YouTube on 28 April, featuring an interview with Laurenti Dyogi, the head of TV production at ABS-CBN. “Bakit hindi ka bumalik (Why didn't you go back)? Like Sandara Park, you could have opted to go back to South Korea,” Dyogi said. Bang disclosed that Lee Soo-man, the music producer who founded SM Entertainment before parting ways with the label in October 2022, offered him a work contract consisting of a five-year training program in South Korea, and Bang even had a personal interview with Lee. "Noong close pa kami ni Ate Dara (Sandara Park), pinakausap sa akin dati ‘yung company niya. Tapos may kumukuha sa akin para mag-five years training (When Ate Dara and I were still close, she asked me to talk to her company then, which was getting me for five years' training)," said Bang. "Na-meet ko ‘yung Lee Soo-man. Gusto talaga nila ako 100 percent doon. Nagpunta pa ako sa SM Town, nag one-on-one interview pa kami. Interested talaga sila na pang-TV, pang-komedyante at pang-host (I met Lee Soo-man. They really wanted me 100 percent there. I went to SM Town and had a one-on-one interview with them. They were interested to get me for TV, as a comedian and host)," he added. The comedian did not specify when he was approached by the music producer. Despite this big opportunity, Bang said he decided to turn it down since he believed he wouldn't meet the standards and strict working conditions of South Korean entertainment. Although his parents had no objections to his working as an entertainer in his own nation, the conditions attached to the offer — including being unable to travel freely and being subject to mobility restrictions — made him rethink the proposal. “Wala pa sa puso ko na i-grab ko ang chance ng SM. Sabi ng mga magulang ko naman noong nasa Korea pa ako, bahala ka. Desisyon mo yan. So, nag-dalawang isip ako (It wasn't in my heart to grab the chance offered by SM. My parents said it was my call, and I had second thoughts),” he recalled. "'Yun ang offer naman kasi nila, bawal ako pumunta ng Philippines (Their offer restricted me from traveling to the Philippines)," he elaborated. "Kailangan bawat galaw ko bawal, kaso sobrang makulit talaga ako (There were a lot of restrictions, but I'm basically a restless guy)." Bang stressed once more that it was his personality that led him to want to stay in the Philippines: "Sa Korea kasi grabe, mahigpit, parang walang freedom. Eh grabe ang ugali ko, ang personality ko ay pang-Pilipino talaga ako, so nag-decide na ako na mag-stay dito (It's quite strict in Korea. My personality is more like a Filipino, so I decided to stay here)." 'Na-meet ko ‘yung Lee Soo-man. Gusto talaga nila ako 100 percent doon. Nagpunta pa ako sa SM Town, nag one-on-one interview pa kami.' Despite declining the invitation, Bang has guested on several Korean programs such as travel, documentary and variety shows. On Infinity Challenge, dubbed the first "real-variety" program in Korean television history, he was allowed to take on the role of Senator Manny Pacquiao's translator. He also said he had received acting offers from South Korean entertainment productions and is willing to accept them in the future. “Ngayon, merong nago-offer sa akin ng mga teleserye na parang sidekick. Hindi nga ako nag-paalam sa iyo n’un, Direk Lauren, kaya ako nag-braces. Kasi gusto ng mga director doon ay perfect ang ngipin bago ako isalang sa mga movie nila. May kumukuha sa akin na movie, teleserye, eh nag-pandemic bigla. So, ‘yung mga ganoon, tatanggapin (I've received offers to be a sidekick in Korean TV series. I didn't even ask your permission then, Direk Lauren, when I got braces, because directors there want me to have perfect teeth before putting me in shows. I was being asked to do movies, TV shows, but the pandemic happened. But I'm open to accepting such offers).” Ryan began his career in the Philippines as a contestant on Pinoy Big Brother in 2010, when he ended in second place. He currently serves as one of the regular hosts of the noontime program It's Showtime. By performing in “Magpasikat” in November 2022, the Korean- yet Filipino-at-heart performer showcased his love for both countries. The show featured Team Jhong-Ryan, which won "Magpasikat" with a celebratory performance that honored the strong relationship and diverse cultures of the Philippines and Korea. Along with Kring Kim, Bang also co-hosted the event Running Man: A Decade of Laughter on 1 April at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. He then appeared in Running Man's episode 651, which aired on 23 April. Boa, Girls' Generation, SHINee, Super Junior, Red Velvet, EXO, NCT and aespa are just a few of the widely recognized K-pop groups that are under the management of SM Entertainment. The post ‘Pang-Pilipino talaga ako’: Ryan Bang turns down work offer in S. Korea appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Lea umaming natakot nang bumalik sa US: I asked my manager if I would be safe…
MALALIM ang hugot ng international singer na si Lea Salonga patungkol sa pagiging presidente ng Amerika ni Donald Trump. Hot topic ngayon sa buong mundo ang presidential elections sa US kung saan tinalo nga ni Joe Biden si Trump. Ayon sa singer-actress, makakahinga na rin siya ngayon nang maluwag kapag magtutungo sa Amerika hindi tulad […] The post Lea umaming natakot nang bumalik sa US: I asked my manager if I would be safe… appeared first on Bandera......»»
Aljun Melecio s never-ending quest to prove he belongs
Aljun Melecio has these hardware sitting pretty on his trophy case: UAAP 78 Jrs. MVP, UAAP 79 Rookie of the Year, UAAP 79 champion. Now heading into his fifth and final year in De La Salle University, he remains recognized as one of the best point guards in all of college. Well, recognized by just about everybody except himself. Asked if he feels worthy to stand alongside the likes of NCAA 95 Finals MVP Fran Yu or UAAP 82 Rookie of the Year Mark Nonoy, he answered, modest as always, "Nope. I don't. Wala pa akong napapatunayan." Yes, the 5-foot-8 super scorer who was then head coach Aldin Ayo's "most-wanted recruit" feels he is yet to prove himself. Yes, the primetime playmaker who was once comforted by Tab Baldwin after the Green Archers had lost the championship despite his 16 points in Game 3 of the Finals feels he is yet to prove himself. That in itself is not necessarily surprising, though. And that's because all throughout his young career, Melecio has felt, again and again, that he has to prove himself. He had to prove himself even to La Salle, his home of nine years now. "Actually, 'di naman ako ni-recruit ng Zobel dati," he shared. "To be honest, my mindset at that time ay mag-Team B lang sa Zobel para pag may games, mas magagamit ako. Kaysa naman mag-Team A ako and nakaupo lang sa bench." BREAK IN Aljun Melecio, now a graduating guard, is La Salle's most recent homegrown product. Of the Green Archers' probable UAAP 83 roster, the now-22-year-old is the lone player to have come from the Taft-based school's Jrs. programs - and mind you, they have two in La Salle Zobel and La Salle Green Hills. In DLSZ, Melecio was a scoring dynamo who once dropped 42 points on archrival Ateneo de Manila High School. Did you know, though, that he wasn't even supposed to wear the green and white? "I was supposed to transfer sa UST nung high school," he recalled. "Pero napag-usapan naming family na since si kuya, nasa Zobel na nung time na yun, mas okay sigurong Zobel na lang din ako para magkasama kami." Aljun was referring to older brother Aleck who was also his teammate for three years with the Jr. Archers. If not for Aleck, however, Aljun would have suited up for University of Sto. Tomas High School where good friend Renzo Subido had already committed to play for college. After all, it was Subido, and dad Henry, who had convinced the Melecios to move to Manila from Bukidnon. "The reason talaga why we took the risk to come here was because of Coach Henry," Aljun shared, looking back at the time when all of them were repping Lourdes School of Mandaluyong. "They invited us to play basketball in Manila kaya malaki ang utang na loob namin sa Subido family." While Coach Henry and Renzo have been always there to lend a helping hand, that did not necessarily make the transition any easier - especially for a 10-year-old kid who was born and bred in Valencia City. "Grabe yung sacrifice na ginawa namin just for me to have more opportunities in life. That was a big adjustment not just for me, but also for my parents," Melecio said. He then continued, "Dumating yung time na ayoko nang bumalik sa Manila kasi na-homesick ako. Looking back now, normal lang naman siguro yun, lalong-lalo na bata pa ako." BREAKTHROUGH Make no mistake about it, looking back now, Aljun Melecio has no regrets. As he put it, "It was all worth it." Of course, he also had lady luck smile on him somewhat as, yet again following the footsteps of Subido, he transferred from Lourdes to DLSZ. And there, he found yet another mentor willing to believe in him. "Sina Coach Boris [Aldeguer], pagdating ko sa Zobel, they invited me to join yung practice ng Team A. Nagulat ako na kaya ko naman pala so doon na nag-start yung confidence ko," he said. Indeed, Melecio did not let Coach Boris down as in his first year, he proved to be a building block in their rebuild. While the boys from Alabang eventually ended outside the playoff picture, he had made more than enough noise to get the attention of the Philippine national youth team. There, DLSZ's top gun got his first taste of wearing the flag as part of the Batang Gilas training pool. "Masayang-masaya ako nun na makasama sa practice team dahil dream ko talaga maging part nun," he narrated. "May jersey lang and makasali lang ako sa practice, masayang-masaya ako." There, Melecio showcased his skills alongside other promising prospects such as Nieto twins Mike and Matt as well as Jolo Mendoza of Ateneo, Renzo Navarro of San Sebastian College-Recoletos, and Jollo Go of Hope Christian High School. And there, yet again, he knew full well he had to prove himself. During training itself, the new kid on the block believed he was doing so. At the same time, however, he had to come face-to-face with another beast altogether - how to get to practice in the first place. As it turned out, the then-13-year-old had to commute from south to north each and every time he participated in Batang Gilas training. How did his trips go? "From Alabang, mag-tricycle ako to [Alabang] Town [Center] then jeep going to Starmall [Alabang]. After nun, bus to Magallanes, MRT, then LRT, tapos jeep ulit," he shared. He then continued, "So papunta pa lang to Moro, pagod na ako. Then after practice, mag-commute na naman pauwi." Fortunately for him, there were also kind hearts like the Nieto twins who took him to the LRT station in Katipunan or Evan Nelle whom he rode with going back south. Still, around 33km and about an hour separated DLSZ in the south and Ateneo's Moro Lorenzo Sports Center in the north - indeed, that was some sort of workout already. BREAKDOWN In the long run, that was, unfortunately, much too much for young Aljun Melecio. While wearing the flag would have meant much, he also felt circumstances, such as that hell of a commute that cost him PHP 200 for a one-way trip, held him back from giving his all. Instead, Melecio felt he could do much more if he just rechanneled his energy to DLSZ. "After ilang weeks na ginagawa ko yung routine na yun, I started asking myself kung paano maayos yung priorities ko. Pinakiramdaman ko kung saan ako mag-iimprove so I talked to Coach Boris," he said. He the continued, "And I decided na mag-all in sa Zobel." All in for the Jr. Archers, he did, and boy, did it prove to be the right call. He was just getting started in UAAP 76, slowly but surely getting a grasp of both his capabilities and confidence as he helped the green and white barge back into the Final Four. Then in Season 77, it all clicked as he shot the green and white to the second rung of the stepladder all while putting up per game counts of 16.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 2.3 steals. Without a doubt, he willed his way into the Mythical Team that included the Nieto twins, his batchmates in Batang Gilas. The following year, with averages of 22.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 2.3 steals, he carried DLSZ all the way to the Finals where they stole one game from eventual champion Nazareth School of National University. And oh, he was the unanimous MVP of Season 78, besting the likes of future Gilas Pilipinas pool members Justine Baltazar and Gomez de Liano brothers Javi and Juan. Even then, though, he wouldn't call himself the best of the best. "I didn't think na I belonged kasi never kong gustong isipin na ganun ako," he said. He then continued, "Ang alam ko lang, I worked extra hard, I had extra motivation to play. Thankfully, coach Boris supported my decision and dahil dun, na-boost yung confidence ko." BREAK FREE From there, Aljun Melecio did nothing but go onto greater and greater heights in La Salle's Srs. squad. Never tell him he has accomplished anything, though, as he would be the first to tell you that you're wrong. Up until now, he feels that he is yet to prove himself. He hopes to prove that he has what it takes to be behind the wheel for the Green Archers' new era. He hopes to prove that he could bounce back following the worst statistical season for him. And he hopes to prove that he has every right to be mentioned in the same breath as his one-time teammates in the Batang Gilas pool and his batchmates who are now part of the Gilas Pilipinas pool. "Lahat naman, ginagawa kong motivation," he said. "May it be positive or negative, we all have our timing so I'm just being patient para sa kung anuman ang ibibigay na chance sa akin." If and when that next shot at wearing the flag comes along, Melecio only vows to do what he has never stopped doing. Asked about getting a golden opportunity at the Gilas pool, he answered, "That's still a dream for me. I know I still have a lot to prove." He then continued, "But I will give my all if given the chance to represent. I always do." If and when that time comes, there would be no more 33km distance, one-hour travel time, or PHP 200 cost. Still, Aljun Melecio would work just as hard - if not more - as he did when he once had to commute south to north just to get to practice. Don't forget, proving himself is already second nature to him. --- Follow this writer on Twitter, @riegogogo......»»
Mommy Dionisia, Mike Yamson 10 years nang magdyowa: Thank you, Lord!
SAMPUNG taon nang magkarelasyon ngayon ang nanay ni Manny Pacquiao na si Mommy Dionisia Pacquiao at ang boyfriend niyang si Mike Yamson. Yes, yes, yes mga ka-Marites! Ten years nang magdyowa ang dalawa at in fairness, going strong pa rin ang relasyon at mas lalo pa raw nagiging solid sa paglipas ng panahon. Twenty-seven years.....»»
Belmonte, Binay call for climate action funding from development banks
The C40 coalition of cities, a network of nearly 100 mayors, asked MDBs to increase urban climate investment, integrate urban climate action into their strategies, and implement tailored programs to support city projects. .....»»
Victims of Baltimore bridge collapse include those from Mexico, Guatemala
Maryland [US], March 27 (ANI): Among those reported missing following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore in the US are Mexican nationals, CNN reported, citing Rafael Laveaga, Chief of the Consular Section of Mexico's Embassy in Washington. Laveaga refrained from specifying the exact number of missing Mexican nationals when he addressed reporters near the scene on Tuesday. A reporter asked Laveaga: ".....»»
Sheryl na-starstruck kay Ate Guy; Martin may pa-Tortang Talong!
HINDI napigilan ng Kapuso actress at singer na si Sheryl Cruz ang magpaka-fan girl nang makita up close and personal ang Superstar na si Nora Aunor. Inamin ng seasoned actress na na-starstruck siya nang makasama ang National Artist sa taping ng GMA afternoon series na “Lilet Matias, Attorney-At-Law.” Baka Bet Mo: Ellen hinamon ng netizens.....»»
Pia binasag nga ba si Heart sa ‘worth ng kababaihan’ campaign?
MAY “silent war” nga ba sina 2015 Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach at Kapuso international fashion icon na si Heart Evangelista? Yan ang nakakaintrigang tanong ng mga netizens nang mapansin nilang tila sinagot ni Pia ang lumang Instagram post ni Heart noong January, 2024. Usap-usapan ngayon ng mga Marites ang matapang na statement ni Pia para.....»»
Katya mas inuna ang pagbuo ng baby kesa sa kasal nila ni Paulo Pilar
MAS inuna ng engaged couple na sina Katya Santos at Paolo Pilar ang pagkakaroon ng baby kesa ang kanilang pagpapakasal. Iyan ang bonggang rebelasyon ng dating sexy actress nang matanong tungkol sa estado ng relasyon nila ngayon ng kanyang non-showbiz fiancé. Ayon kay Katya, kahit nag-propose na sa kanya si Paolo last January sa Japan,.....»»
Andi, Gwen Guck super bonding sa Siargao: ‘Nanay never made it but…’
NAKAPAG-BONDING nang bonggang-bongga ang magkapatid na Andi Eigenmann at Gwen Guck sa napakagandang isla ng Siargao. Tulad ng kuwento sa BANDERA ng Kapuso actor na si Gabby Eigenmann, talagang walang inaksayang oras ang dalawang anak ng yumaong aktres na si Jaclyn Jose sa paglilibot nila sa Siargao. Sa kanyang Instagram account, ibinandera ni Andi ang.....»»
Jerald Napoles dinepensahan si Kim, proud sa pagiging kargador
IPINAGTANGGOL ng aktor na si Jerald Napoles ang kanyang girlfriend na si Kim Molina nang resbakan ang isang netizen na tumawag sa kanya bilang kargador. Nitong Linggo, March 24, nag-explain ang aktor na na-provoke ang kanyang dyowa sa komentong “69” at hindi sa pagtawag sa kanya bilang kargador. Totoo kasi na naging trabaho ito ni.....»»
Sachzna minolestiya sa edad na 5, tinakot na papatayin ang lolo’t lola
Trigger warning: sexual abuse SA edad na 5 ay nakaranas na ang content creator at aktres na si Sachzna Laparan ng pangmomolestiya at pananakot. Inalala ng vlogger ang ginawang kahayupan sa kanya ng isang malayong kamag-anak na inampon ng kanyang lolo at lola. Matindi ang idinulot na trauma kay Sachzna nang mabiktima ng sexual abuse.....»»
Cristine umaming nagtampo kay Lord; ibinalik ni Marco ang kanyang faith
MAS gusto sana ni Cristine Reyes na non-showbiz ang maging next boyfriend after nilang maghiwalay ng dating asawang actor-model na si Ali Khatibi. Pero hindi nga ito nangyari dahil na-in love na siya sa hunk actor na si Marco Gumabao na matagal na niyang kaibigan at ilang beses na rin niyang nakatrabaho. Inilarawan pa ng.....»»
JK Labajo awang-awa sa umiiyak na sanggol habang nagko-concert
UMANI ng 100% pogi points ang singer-actor na si Juan Karlos o JK Labajo mula sa madlang pipol matapos magpakita ng concern sa isang 2-month-old baby. Nangyari ito sa isa niyang show kung saan kinarga at pinatahan niya ang naturang sanggol na iyak nang iyak habang siya’y nagpe-perform. Base sa viral Facebook post ng isang.....»»
Albie Casiño asked if he visited Jaclyn Jose s wake: Hindi ako apektado do n
Actor Albie Casiño believed that he didn't have to go to veteran actress Jaclyn Jose's wake. .....»»
Kiray may inamin sa mga natatakot at tumatawag ng maldita kay Marian
NAKAKATAKOT! Maldita. Mahirap katrabaho. Ilan lang yan sa mga salitang ikinakabit sa Kapuso Primetime Queen na si Marian Rivera. Actually, matagal nang natsitsismis na nakakaloka raw katrabaho si Marian at kung anu-ano ngang malilisyosong kuwento ang naglalabasan tungkol sa kanyang tunay na ugali. Kaya naman sa grand mediacon ng comeback series ng wifey ni Dingdong.....»»