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Friday, March 14, 2025
The STANDS - An Inquirer Sports Newsletter
Opera Belles: A new generation of classical crossover stars
Meet the new Opera Belles — Sheena Bentoy, Nicolah Lim and Daniella Silab.
Carlo Orosa - The Philippine Star
March 14, 2025 | 12:00am
The Philippine Opera Company (POC), headed by its artistic director Karla Gutierrez, has officially launched the latest batch of Opera Belles, an all-female singing group that merges operatic vocals with theatrical and pop influences.
The newest members — Nicolah Lim, Sheena Bentoy and Daniella Silab — took the center stage, performing a three-song set that highlighted their rich classical timbre, their ability to blend genres seamlessly, and their stage presence and movement that exuded both elegance and charm.
What makes the third batch of Opera Belles particularly exciting is their shared passion for the performing arts. Beyond their collective ambition as singers, each of these women harbors dreams that extend into various facets of the industry — be it opera, Broadway, creative direction or film directing.
Their aspirations reflect the evolving landscape of the performing arts, where versatility and adaptability are just as crucial as raw talent.
For now, however, Nicolah, Sheena and Daniella are dedicating themselves to mastering the art of performance under the prestigious Opera Belles banner. The unique ensemble challenges its members to not only sing but also to embody grace, personality and movement, making them well-rounded performers.
To mark the beginning of their journey, the group also introduced a brand-new original song, titled In The Mood, composed by Nicolah and produced by Paolo Zarate, along with an accompanying music video — a bold step in establishing their identity in the Philippine music scene.
The Opera Belles concept is not new to Philippine audiences. The first batch of performers set the foundation for what would become a celebrated group known for blending classical opera with contemporary showmanship.
Over the years, different iterations of the group have showcased an impressive roster of classically trained singers who have embraced the challenge of making opera more accessible to modern audiences.
The previous batches of Opera Belles gained recognition for their ability to make classical music more appealing to younger listeners by fusing it with elements of pop and musical theater. Their performances have graced both local and international stages, proving that opera is not limited to the grand halls of Europe but can thrive in mainstream entertainment.
However, as Karla Gutierrez candidly admitted, forming and maintaining a group like this is no easy feat. “It is so hard to find the right set of girls,” she shared. “It took us six years before we could start training this new batch. An Opera Belle must possess a classical timbre, look good and be able to dance very well.”
Her years of experience in developing previous groups have taught her valuable lessons. “Most of the time, young artists tend to rush things,” she observed. “They want immediate success, but growth in this field takes time. When they begin to peak, suddenly, a dip happens. That’s why patience is crucial.”
She also noted another challenge, the internal competition among members. “Sometimes, the girls compete with each other instead of focusing on their strengths,” she said. “The learning here is that they should highlight what makes them unique rather than dwell on their weaknesses. I’m glad that with this new group, there’s a strong sense of sisterhood and cooperation.”
More than just a singing group, the Opera Belles represents a movement — one that aims to reintroduce classical singing to the mainstream. In an industry dominated by power belters and pop idols, Karla hoped to inspire a new generation of artists to explore different vocal styles and embrace their own unique identities.
“The competition is stiff,” she acknowledged. “What we hear nowadays is mostly birit — big, belted notes. While that has its place, we want to introduce audiences to something different. We want young singers to find their own voice, their own style, rather than just copying what’s popular.”
With this philosophy in mind, Opera Belles is not just about showcasing talent — it’s about nurturing artists who can sustain long and fulfilling careers. Through rigorous training in vocal technique, stage presence and movement, Karla and her team ensure that each member is prepared for the challenges of the industry.
Following their official debut, Nicolah, Sheena and Daniella embark on an exciting new chapter — not just as individual artists but as part of a group that carries the legacy of those who came before them. They are stepping into roles that require more than just skill; they must embody discipline, perseverance and an openness to learning.
As the latest Opera Belles, one thing is certain: they are not just performers, they are pioneers in a genre that continues to evolve. With the support of their mentor, their training and their undeniable passion, the three young women are poised to carve out a space for classical crossover music in today’s entertainment landscape.
Their story is just beginning, and the world is eager to see where their voices will take them next.
Clearing the air
BY REY ILAGAN
EDITORS DESK
IQAir recently released its 7th annual World Air Quality Report on March 11, shedding light on the most polluted countries and areas in 2024. The findings highlight concerning trends in global air pollution, with most regions failing to meet recommended air quality standards.
The Philippines ranked 74th worldwide, with an average US AQI of 62 and a PM2.5 concentration of 14.82 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m³) average of PM2.5—three times the World Health Organization’s (WHO) annual guideline value. This marks a decline from 2023, when the country ranked 79th with a PM2.5 level of 13.5 µg/m³. Pasig City emerged as the most polluted city in the country, recording a US AQI of 89, while Carmona, Cavite was named the cleanest city with a US AQI of 41.
This year’s report analyzed data from more than 40,000 air quality monitoring stations across 8,954 locations in 138 countries, territories, and regions, providing a comprehensive look at global air pollution trends.
The report noted that only 17 percent of global cities meet WHO’s air quality guidelines. Seven countries—Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Estonia, Grenada, Iceland, and New Zealand—met the WHO’s recommended annual PM2.5 level of 5 µg/m³, while the most polluted were Chad, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Congo, and India.
“Air pollution remains a critical threat to both human health and environmental stability, yet vast populations remain unaware of their exposure levels,” IQAir Global CEO Frank Hammes said.
“Air quality data saves lives. It creates much-needed awareness, informs policy decisions, guides public health interventions, and empowers communities to take action to reduce air pollution and protect future generations,” Hammes continued.
We all know that health declines when people are exposed to poor air quality. Exposure to PM2.5—fine particulate matter linked to air pollution—can contribute to serious health conditions, including asthma, cancer, stroke, and lung diseases, according to IQAir. Studies also associate prolonged exposure with congenital heart defects, allergic diseases, cognitive impairments, neurodevelopmental disorders, and mental health issues.
With the Philippines highly vulnerable to environmental risks, local governments like Makati and Quezon City are stepping up efforts to improve air quality monitoring and policy interventions.
Makati has installed real-time air quality monitoring systems in key barangays to provide accurate pollution data. These sensors track various indicators, including heat index, temperature, humidity, CO2 levels, and particulate matter.
“With these sensors, we are able to zero in on areas in the city where poor air quality poses serious health hazards,” Makati Mayor Abby Binay said during the 2024 Taal Volcano vog emissions. “These smart devices also help the city government monitor compliance with the Clean Air Act and related regulations, particularly among businesses.”
The city then posts regular advisories on social media, informing residents about pollution levels and necessary precautions. In 2024, the city had 824 indoor air quality monitoring devices and 200 outdoor units equipped with solar panels.
Quezon City has also expanded its air quality monitoring network last year, with 40 non-reference air quality sensors and one reference station tracking pollutants such as PM2.5 from vehicle and industrial emissions. The data collected informs local policies and environmental projects.
“Guided by the city’s air quality management plan, which identifies mobile sources as the primary contributor to air pollutants based on the city’s Emission Inventory, we are actively pursuing measures to meet the more stringent air quality guideline values set forth by the World Health Organization,” Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte explained. “These efforts involve evidence-based policy interventions and projects aimed at achieving even better air quality for our constituents.”
To keep residents informed, Quezon City publishes real-time air quality index updates every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday on its official website and social media pages, including the Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Department Facebook page.
Improving air quality across the Philippines will require stronger policies and sustained efforts like these monitoring systems in Makati and Quezon City. With air pollution remaining a major public health risk, everyone must stay informed and do their part in reducing it.
(Rey Robes Ilagan is the editor of Manila Bulletin’s Environment and Sustainability section.)
Creating the Filipino book experience
Presenting the Philippine Book Fair's opening day
With the battle cry of ‘It’s Not Just a Book Fair, It’s a Book Experience’, the Philippine Book Fair was launched March 13, and will run until Sunday, March 16. Mounted by the National Book Development Board, the Board’s Chairman Dante Francis Ang II, and Executive Director Charisse A. Tugade, welcomed the guests, participants, stakeholders, and publishing companies, to the grand opening ceremonies.
The kickoff program was an exciting showcase of literature turned into a performing art, and it worked well in the transition; the audience appreciative of the performances. Present during the launch event were National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Ricky Lee, Maria Karina Bolasco, and Milflores publisher Andrea Pasion-Flores. Exec. Director Charisse Tugade provided the inspirational words, recounting the Board’s recent accomplishments and how they’re staying true to the mission vision.
Aral Aklat, Kid Lit, Komiks, and Booktopia were the four main sections of the Fair; and on the first morning, the Fair was a truly well-attended affair. Head to the Megatrade Hall at Megamall to enjoy an encounter with Filipino creativity and literature.
Eula Valdez share scary encounters about the supernatural
AT A GLANCE
Ryza recently shared an intriguing revelation about herself: she possesses a third eye.
Actors Ryza Cenon, Mon Confiado, and Eula Valdez shared their chilling encounters with the supernatural, recounting eerie moments that sent shivers down their spines.
At the recent premiere of the spine-chilling horror film "Lilim," held at The Block SM North in Quezon City, the stars of the movie, used to the spooky mood on and off set, shared how these eerie events became a normal part of their daily lives. Their stories added interest to the evening as they talked about what made the filming experience both scary and memorable.
Ryza recently shared an intriguing revelation about herself: she possesses a third eye.
During an interview, she explained that this unique ability allows her to perceive things beyond the ordinary, giving her insights that most people may overlook.
"Actually may third eye ako. Kapag nakakaramdam ako sa mga location namin, deadma na lang. Sometimes kinakausap ko naman sila at nagso-sorry ako. Sinasabi ko pasenya na at nabubulabog namin kayo. Nagtatabi-tabi po ako ganyan. Normal na sa akin yung may nararamdaman ako or may nakikita ako. (I have a third eye that allows me to sense things in our surroundings. When I notice something, I usually choose to ignore it. Occasionally, I talk to these entities and apologize, letting them know that we are not here to disturb anyone. It's normal for me to feel or see these things)," she said.
Eula vividly remembers her childhood fears, particularly during the intense moments of a film location shoot.
"One time may nakita akong naka-float na legs. Sumisigaw ako pero papunta naman sa kanya. Sabi ko lola ko yun. Tinanong nila ako kung ano ang suot. Nagkwento ako. It turned out yun ang suot niya nung namatay siya. (One time I saw someone with floating legs. I was screaming but I was going to her. I said it was my grandmother. They asked me what she was wearing. I told them the story. It turned out that was what she was wearing when she died)," she said.
Eula added: "Ayoko rin pumunta sa mga patay kasi madalas may sumusunod. May dalawang maid ako sabi ko sa kanila sino yung nasa gitna ninyo. Akala nila tinatakot ko sila. Yun pala yung kapitbahay namin magparenovate ng bahay. Yun pala may namatay doon pero hindi nila pinaalam sa marami. (I also don't like going to the wake because there are spirits following me. I have two maids and I asked them about the person who walked with them. They thought I was scaring them. It turned out that someone had died in our neighborhood but they kept quiet about it)"
The award-winning veteran actress shared additional horror stories with the press. "Kapag taping namin, may mga nakikita ako sa puno na maitim pero nanlilisik yung mga mata nila. Tama pala yun na kinakausap mo sila at sabihin mo na hindi kayo manggugulo. Sila naman nasa puno lang sila. So sinabihan ko sila sa set na huwag magulo kasi ayaw nila na naiistorbo. Minsan nga nagto-toothbrush ako pero parang nararamdaman mo sa likod mo parang may energy. Sabihin mo na lang, 'Inaantok na ako. Ayoko ng tinatakot. Then minsan kumakain ako may batang sumisilip sa akin. Pero nasanay na lang ako. (While we were filming, I noticed shadows in the trees, and their eyes were shining. I communicated with them, reassuring them that we weren't disturbing anyone. They were simply present in the trees, so I reminded the crew not to make any unnecessary noise. There were times when I was brushing my teeth, and it felt like there was energy behind me. During those moments, I would just say, "I'm getting sleepy; I don't want to be scared." There were also times when I was eating, and I saw a kid peeking at me. Eventually, I just got used to it.)
Mon shared that he has spent time inside a casket on three different occasions during his career. Each time he took on this unsettling role, he experienced a high fever, which resulted from the stress and emotional weight of the experience.
"Tatlong beses na akong pinapasok sa loob ng kabaong. Promise iba ang feeling sa loob. And everytime na pinapasok ako sa loob, nilalagnat ako. Recently, na-witness pa ito ni Heaven (Peralejo) na pinasok na naman ako sa ataol at grabe. Nilagnat na naman ako. Sabi nila bago yung ataol pero feeling ko for rent yung ataol na ginamit namin. Parang yun ang ginagamit habang may burol so parang gamit na. Hindi ko alam kung psychological yun pero nilalagnat talaga ako. Pero magdarasal lang ako at nawawala na yung lagnat ko kinabukasan. (I've been put inside the coffin three times. I promise the feeling inside is different. And every time I'm put inside, I have a fever. Recently, Heaven (Peralejo) witnessed me being put in the coffin again. I have a fever again. They said the coffin was new but I feel like it was used for rent. I don't know if it's psychological but I really have a fever. But I just pray and my fever will go away the next day)," Mon said.
Co-stars Heaven Peralejo and Gold Aceron have not experienced any paranormal events in their lives. However, they both strongly believe that restless spirits exist, lingering in the shadows and seeking resolution.
Directed by Mikhail Red under Viva Films, "Lilim" follows the harrowing journey of a sister and brother who seek refuge in a secluded orphanage amid social unrest and mysterious disappearances. What begins as a sanctuary quickly transforms into a nightmare as the siblings uncover dark cult practices and confront an ancient evil hidden beneath the surface.
“I wanted to make a film about a hidden society sheltering from the encroaching oppression of the times, only to collapse and fall victim to their own beliefs, a society shackled by fear and by fanaticism, mirroring the very world it tries to escape,” said Mikhail in an interview with Variety.
The director added: “It is also my first horror film seen through the eyes of children. ‘Lilim’ is a bigger and more ambitious production compared to ‘Deleter’ and ‘Nokturno,’ with more complex sequences, perspectives and characters, production was quite challenging for us being a period set film.”
"Lilim" is now showing in cinemas nationwide.