|
For the past 17 years, The Filipino Express has provided the Filipino American community the best news, arts and entertainment coverage from around the United States and the Philippines.
|
|
|
|
This website includes selected articles from this week's edition of the Filipino Express. Not all the stories published in the printed version appear on this site.
|
|
To tell us what you think about Filipino Express Online or to comment on the stories published here, E-mail us at Filexpress@aol.com
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SIX DAYS after our “Fist-O-Rama’ legend, Manny Pacquiao, sent legendary Mexican boxer Eric Morales sprawling to the canvas like a soggy corn tortilla to win the bout for the entire Filipino people, it is still hot topic.
ABS-CBN, for one, is still relentlessly replaying the “knockout” sequence as if it pays all their bills -- well maybe it does, but hey, enough already. We already know the real meaning of Manny’s victory; and that is not some political slogan crap that projects the Philippines as a country united and moving forward, or a network’s ratings chart.
The truth is, the real meaning of Manny’s win is the assurance that I, a Filipino like Manny, who eats rice, ‘bagoong’, ‘fishballs’, ‘maruya’, ‘carioca’; rides a jeepney to work, buys and drinks “ice tubig’ after an afternoon basketball game, and eats ‘balut’ like it is the last remaining source of oxygen on earth, has what it takes to make a difference in this world.
Forget the hypocritical political angle of the boxing win. The real effect of Pacquiao’s knockout over Morales is deeply personal and never political.
As a Filipino living here in the US, Pacquiao’s conquest is most relevant. You see, here in another country, we have to represent because, sadly, not everyone here knows what a Filipino is, or where the Philippines is.
In New York, for instance, where a multi-racial society exists, we are often generalized as simply ‘Asian’ and not as a part of a specific culture, unlike the Japanese, the Korean, and the Chinese.
But with Pacquiao’s success, and his repeated announcement of his identity as a Filipino, he has put a face on our blank identities -- it may be a boxer’s broken face, but it is a proud face that I am most happy to wear.
Last Monday, two days after Pacman’s demolition of Morales, my neighbors, who know I am Filipino, but has never given me any regard for being one, made a gesture I will never forget. As I entered my apartment, Steve, a white American guy, and Salve, a Puerto Rican-American chick called me from a distance and said hello.
While they were greeting me in the politest of ways, they were doing what seem to be “shadow-punching”. I immediately recognized their gesture, and simply asked them if they have seen it. “Yes,” they said in unison. “You Filipinos rock”, Salve added.
I had a sudden rush of blood to the head. I was bloated with pride. Suddenly, my being Filipino mattered. I have moved from a generic class of ethnicity to a genuine identity.
Manny Pacquiao, not only broke Morales’ nose, he broke the wall that hindered my identity from being appreciated. He knocked Eric out, as well as the shadows that has kept me from making a difference. Manny Pacquiao, a Filipino like me and you, made a difference and has become the most recognizable Asian in the world today. And in our tiny neighborhoods here in New York or elsewhere around the globe, so did we.
Reader’s Reactions
I have received some interesting feedbacks about my articles since Issue 1 of this year. Here’s one of the emails I recieved. about the article: “Songs we don’t deserve to hear” - Issue # 2, January 2006.
From Ronald G. of Washington, D.C.:
Dear Mr. Reyes,
I recently read your article about the songwriter Lito Camo and his disturbing and sad representations of pinoy music. I am also a singer songwriter and I just recently moved here to the Philppines three months ago from Washington DC and was shocked to hear these “songs”.
When I myself watched Wowowee, I couldn’t believe how entertained these Filipinos -- including some of my unknowing family -- were, enjoying this hideous music that was blaring in the background. I came here thinking that I could find talented musicians to collaborate with and record a demo tape to promote in the US when I get back.
But after hearing what the Filipino musicians are dishing out, I’m getting concerned and in some instances embarrassed that we as a society promote and support such music.
I’m beginning to question the entire Filipno music industry in general. I’m not sure whats more disturbing, listening to these uncreative annoying jingles that someone at least attempted to create. Or to listen to these unknowing and puppetesque karaoke trained wannabe singers on TV sing other peoples songs,absolutely showing no kind of creativity or expression.
Simply dressing in gowns and suits imitating foreign singers is not what I would call an artist in any way. It bothers me that honest- to-God real Filipino musicians aren’t getting the creditbility or exposure they deserve.
If this continues I believe that there will be no hope for Filipino musicians and true singers to be taken seriously in the world market or ever get the chance of international exposure.
What I want to ask is, where is this coming from? Who’s in charge of this mess? It only serves to corrupt our youths’ and peers’ idea of what music or at least good music is. It’s depressing and annoying that this is the trend in music in today’s OPM variety.
I completely agree with your article and I thank you and congratulate you for jumping on your soap box and addressing this issue that’s been bothering me ever since I’ stepped foot on Philippine soil.
|
|
Ted Reyes is a musician, composer, record producer and journalist based in NYC. If you have any comments you can visit his website at www.tedreyes.com or email him at tedreyes@mac.com
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
“Thoughts for the Young Ones”
|
|
|
|
|
I WAS recently invited as a motivational speaker in a seminar sponsored by the local chapter of the Rotary International in my old high school when I came to Manila for a visit.
I discussed topics on going to college, making career choices and being a success in life. I could not help but feel flattered that I was already considered successful by my former high school.
Finding myself walking along the same corridors and hallways I used to be at in my former Alma Mater, made me recall the most interesting and pleasant experiences in high school life. Moreover, I was glad to have been given the chance to share some of what I have learned through the years with a group of young people.
I have to say, though, that there are a lot of things still left for me to accomplish, personally and professionally.
Anyway, I wanted to share with you some excerpts from my talk. It is with fervent hope that readers of this column, particularly the young ones will gain a thing or two from the following texts...
Study well
Of all the journeys you must take, education is the most basic. Education is your best ally to understand your destinations which have grown varied and complex. It is the same education which opens to you a wealth of opportunities, to have the career you want and to be the kind of person you hope to be.
My mother used to tell me and my siblings when we were growing up that a good education is something that could never be taken from any of us by anyone.
It is often said that being in high school is the happiest chapter in a students’ life for this is where the signpost to maturity starts. Even so, the road to learning doesn’t end there.
Be prepared that there will be a long series of academic ups and downs, seemingly unending readings and writings you have to do, and oral and thesis presentations you have to make in order for you to reach your goal.
We know that not all of you will go to college for one reason or the other but nonetheless, whatever field you get yourself into, whether technical, vocational or academic, try to be the frontrunner in that field. The extra effort will make so many opportunities available to you.
Also, just because you weren’t part of the honor roll or the editor in chief of the school paper or the student council president in high school doesn?t mean you’re always going to be in the bottom of the food chain in college. By believing in yourself and imagining a positive future your results will improve dramatically.
Career choice
A career will be a big chunk of your life; so don’t just let anyone decide for you which course to take. For instance, if you come from a family of lawyers, usually your family will expect you to take up a law course.
However, if you were never adept in debating or doing a lot of researching, eventually you will have a tough time pursuing or even finishing that course. What will likely follow are ensuing frustrations on your part, disappointments on the part of your family, and the waste of everyone’s time, money and effort.
You should make up your own mind as to your career direction. And of course, lean towards your own personal interests and abilities.
But sometimes, you are put in situations wherein you have to get a course or career that you don’t really like. You have set your heart on getting a medical degree but because of financial constraints, you will have to take up nursing which isn’t really bad given the fact that nurses are in demand everywhere.
Success
Each and every one of you is born to succeed, born to experience all the best things life has to offer. But success seldom comes in a silver platter.
According to one philosopher, your road to success is not to be run upon by seven-leagued boots. Step by step, little by little is the right path in the achievement of something desired. I, for one, have learned through the years about not worrying on being able to make things happen on a grand scale in the beginning.
Now, I just concern myself with making those small baby steps but in a consistent manner, for I believe that things, when done right, will eventually fall into place.
Learning to cope with your own mistakes is another way of achieving success. If you failed the first time, this should not prevent you from trying again the second time. You should always be optimistic.
I received a text message from a former professor a day before this seminar which truly inspired me and I hope it will inspire you as well. “The fact that you are here is evidence that the world needs something you have. Your existence proves your purpose and your purpose creates your potential.”
Yes, anyone can succeed! You have what it takes to succeed! However, bear in mind that success has no shortcuts. Success is the reward for those who are prepared to work hard and honestly.
Thess Bacsal is a freelance writer and lives in California. For your comments, letters and suggestions, email filexpress@aol.com
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Singers, local and foreign, have this unfounded fear of the so-called sophomore “jinx” – you know, that their second album, especially if it’s coming after a successful “debut,” would almost always turn out to be a flop.
Not in the case of Christian Bautista who has successfully broken that “jinx” with his new (second) album, Completely , also released by his home studio, Warner Music Philippines . The album turned “gold” the day it was released recently.
Asked how he did it, Christian simply said, “I prepared well for it, that’s why it took me more than a year to come up with a follow-up to my debut album.”
The debut album, a triple platinum (more than 100,000 copies sold), was a big hit not only in the Philippines but also in Malaysia , Thailand and Indonesia where Christian did a sold-out concert. His first single, The Way You Look at Me , composed by Andrew Fromm, remains at the No. 1 spot in those three countries’ hit lists.
“I have a lot to be thankful for this year,” said Christian.
This year, he did 12 concerts in the US with The Champions, two also in the US with the Star in a Million winners, one in Dubai , one in Canada and three in Indonesia . Also: Concerts at the Big Dome ( Color Everywhere ), Music Museum ( Heartfelt ), Heritage Hotel ( All About Christian Bautista ) and at the PICC (with Kuh Ledesma and Basil Valdez).
And more: A starring role in the ABS-CBN soap Kampanerang Kuba (his discomfort is forgivable because it’s his first TV-acting stint, although he has done a few stage plays; the latest, The Fantastiks , with Nikki Gil, to be mounted next year) and six endorsements (for Bench, Swatch, Greenwich , Smart, Skechers and Toni & Guy Salon).
“I hope things will be even better in 2006,” said Christian, keeping his fingers crossed.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Competing against the very formidable Extra Challenge of GMA is Gulong ng Palad, ABS-CBN’s latest attempt to reclaim the primetime slot, which it had lorded over for years. For this project, not just any star would do. Kristine Hermosa, undoubtedly one of the prettiest faces in showbiz with a massive mass appeal, is tapped for the lead role of Luisa, a provincial maiden who, and this will be too familiar to you, captures the heart of a very rich boy.
And why not? Didn’t Kristine, in combination with Jericho Rosales, attract a vast audience base in that potboiler Pangako sa ‘Yo, which also took some Southeast Asian countries by storm? When I went to Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah in Malaysia, the locals would invariably ask me if by chance I knew Kristine. Her beauty is so radiant, it can even cross cultural and linguistic barriers.
But is she better this time? It’s quite known that her acting ability, unlike her looks, is not one of her strongest points. Erik Salud, one of the directors of Gulong, thinks so. “Ibang-iba dito si Kristine. She has really grown to be a good actress. Binago siya ng mga pinagdaanan niya. May paghuhugutan talaga.”
Kristine credits her directors (the other one being Jerome Pobocan) for any improvement seen in her acting. She says, “Hindi naman nagkulang ng pangangalaga sina direk pagdating sa characterization. Ginabayan nila pagdating sa mga mahihirap na eksena.”
The “very rich boy” in Gulong is Carding, played by TJ Trinidad, once partnered with Judy Ann Santos in a previous soap. This former commercial model shares very striking similarities with Kristine in terms of features. They are both fair, they both have large, attractive eyes, and they both have a cleft chin.
They seem to have that chemistry which, try as the marketing think-tank might, is very hard to establish in a love team, i.e. Richard Guttierez and Angel Locsin. Couldn’t it be that TJ somehow mirrors Kristine’s current dreamboat, Diether Ocampo?
In one scene, Carding accidentally alerts Luisa by the loud beeping of his car. In panic, Luisa falls into a pool of mud. To appease the visibly humiliated Luisa, Carding joins her in the mud. Making light of a very messy situation, they frolic and laugh. I swear it looks so cute, a “kilig eksena” no doubt.
You’ll continue to be titillated until you see Carding’s mom played by Cherie Gil, which made the role “kontrabida” drip with elan and poise. Pure venom in Gulong, Cherie Gil would once again make you feel that seething hatred for a character intent at ripping apart a beautiful relationship. What would you feel if you see someone smashing a whole chocolate cake on the face of Kristine? Menang is her name and you sure will not forget it.
Going back to Kristine. Just like in real life, her character is caught in a severe conflict of what her heart dictates and what her family wants, which is to break all ties with Carding. Turns out that Luisa’s parents are deeply indebted to Carding’s family and will not breach trust, even at the expense of their daughter’s happiness. How does Kristine respond to the obvious connection between the character and her? “Totoo po. Eksakto. Napagdaanan ko na po ‘yun. Alam naman nating lahat ‘yung mga pinagdaanan ko pagdating sa pagmamahal. Naka-relate ako ng sobra,” she candidly reveals
With the fantasy genre in soaps reaching a saturation point, it’s about time we went back to the bare, lovely bones of a good story. Gulong ng Palad, a timeless tale about love and the comfort of family, gives us a renewed access to that warm, assuring home of reality.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
RICHARD GUTIERREZ has announced that he is renewing his contract with Regal Entertainment, in spite of an earlier statement to the contrary given by his mother, Annabel Rama.
Speaking during the press con for his latest movie with Angel Locsin, the actor, who has an eight-picture deal with Regal, said, “I am focused on my work. I let other people handle the problems.”
Gutierrez’s starrer, “Mulawin The Movie” failed to win a single award from the recently concluded Metro Manila Film Festival and Rama has accused Regal matriarch Lily Monteverde of manipulating the results. Rama went on nationwide television to say that her son would not even finish his sixth film under the existing contract.
But now, shooting for the movie, “I Will Always Love You”-co-produced by GMA Films, just as “Mulawin The Movie” was-is about to wrap up.
Before the press conference, Monteverde read a prepared speech pleading with the movie press to limit their questions to the movie and not ask about the current controversies involving its lead stars.
“Spare Angel and Richard from becoming further victims of the circumstances (sic),” the producer said. “Please let this love team bloom.” (Locsin herself is in the middle of a money-related dispute with her manager, Becky Aguila.)
In a one-on-one interview with Inquirer Entertainment after the press con, Gutierrez discussed his feelings about “Mulawin The Movie.” “I never expected to win awards for it [although] I did my best,” he said. “[But] even without awards, I’m very pleased with the movie.” As for “I Will Always Love You,” directed by Mac Alejandre, Gutierrez described it as a mature take on young love. “We’ve grown older, Angel and I, and I feel that the story depicts that maturity in us.”
Very likely part of his maturing was the move last month to his own condominium unit at The Fort. “I don’t have a maid,” he said. “I do everything.
Since it’s new, my tendency is to keep things in order. I always eat out, though.” He said he invited his twin, Raymond, to move in with him, but that Raymond declined. What is it like being Richard Gutierrez, matinee idol-and son of Annabel Rama? With a grin and a twinkle in his eye, the actor said, “Difficult.” (ANJ)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SHERYL CRUZ is frequently in Manila that some people are doubting if her marriage to Norman Bustos is really intact, as opposed to some rumors. During the presscon for GMA-7’s “Tinig,” she reiterated: “My marriage is fine. We celebrated Christmas together with our daughter and that’s how it is going to stay for all the years to come. And do you know that we got married three times? That’s how strong our union as a couple is.”
Meanwhile, towards the end of the presscon, Sheryl gamely sang a medley of songs including “Mr. Dreamboy” which she recorded when she was still a single girl. Never mind if at one instance, she had a hard time hitting the high notes because the press had a wonderful time listening to her.
“Tinig” is the fourth series for GMA Network’s “Now and Forever,” where Sheryl plays Selena, who has a domineering mother (played by comebacking Sandy Andolong) who pushed her to become a singer.
Selena becomes a big star but fell in love with a composer and gets pregnant. Her mother will do anything to get rid of the child and anyone who might threaten the career of Selena. When she gives birth, she gives away the child who later Selena thinks died. When the child grows up (played by Yasmien Kurdi), she becomes a top singer and becomes Selena’s closest rival.
Shades of Sharon Cuneta’s “Bituing Walang Ningning” or “Kaputol ng Isang Awit” with some alterations perhaps?
Sheryl’s playing mother to Yasmien who in real life is a fine singer as well as a recording artist is no big deal for the lovely actress.
“With growth comes maturity,” says Sheryl. “I really don’t mind being Yasmien’s mother on camera. I bade goody- goody roles goodbye and when I decided to make a screen comeback, I know role-wise, things would be different. There were less challenges then dahil the same old roles ang ginagawa ko parati. I can’t even be paired with other leading men. Today, I can be very mean and the moviegoers will still support me. I am no longer limited to one kind of portrayal.”
Sheryl says she has the full support of her husband who understands that next to him, acting is her next biggest love.
Sixties faces featured in walk of fame exhibit
During the sixties, top stars trooped to Tropicana studio at Malabon to have their photos taken by the one and only Dominador Cruz or Mang Ador. Through his lens, they become the most handsome or glamorous.
On January 28, a portfolio of classy shots (which includes the likes of Gloria Romero, Edna Luna, the original Dyesebel, Delia Razon, Amalia Fuentes, Susan Roces, Barbara Perez, dubbed then as Audrey Hepburn of the Philippines, Mario Montenegro, Fred Montilla, Ric Rodrigo and so much more will be displayed at Walk of Fame at Eastwood.
The project was conceived by German Moreno who is moving heaven and earth to immortalize the years when movies are worth-watching and moviestars were worthy of being called icons.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
