Mrs. Universe PH 2025 Vivian Caramba shares story of elegance, empowerment

 

By Carissa Alcantara

Published Sep 8, 2025 11:51 am | Updated Sep 8, 2025 07:13 pm

At A Glance

• Vivian joined pageantry mainly to inspire other women.   

After competing for the crown of Mrs. Universe 2025 Philippines, successful business owner and beauty queen Vivian Caramba is ready for the challenge.

During an intimate press conference held at the Lexus Manila Gallery in Taguig, Vivian shared her story and why she decided to enter pageantry.

"I entered pageantry kasi gusto ko ipakita na ang tagumpay ay hindi lamang sa negosyo, ito ay nagbibigay inspirasyon sa ating kapwa lalo na sa mga kababaihan," Vivian said.

(I entered pageantry to show that success isn’t limited to the business world — it can also inspire our communities, especially other women.)

Reflecting on her childhood, Vivian shared that she only took part in high school intramurals and never imagined she would one day step onto a real pageant stage.

"Before kinukuha na ako as muse, like varsity muse mga ganun pero I never expected na makakasali ako sa Mrs. Universe. Actually medyo nasurprise nga ako na kinukuha ako to participate on this pageant," she said.

(Before this, I was chosen as a muse for school events, like for the varsity team, but I never imagined I’d one day be part of something like Mrs. Universe. Honestly, I was a bit surprised when I was invited to join the pageant.

According to Vivian, it was an unforgettable experience for her to be able to walk on stage and win the crown.

"Kasi kung ano yung hindi ko naranasan dati kung kailan nagka-edad ako tsaka ako nakaranas ng ganitong pangyayari sa buhay ko," she added.

(Because it was something I had never gone through before — and to experience it later in life made it even more meaningful)

As the newly crowned Mrs. Universe PH 2025, Vivian also received a luxurious Lexus vehicle from her husband, Bernie Caramba. The couple's friends and family were present during the official turnover of the car.

The Lexus LM highlighted during the ceremony is regarded as the pinnacle of luxury mobility. Its spacious design, advanced innovations, and unmatched comfort make it the ultimate choice for those who value prestige and elegance in every journey.

Surrounded by dear friends, Vivian Caramba marked the handover in an atmosphere filled with celebration and camaraderie.

Vivian is now preparing for the upcoming 48th Edition of Mrs. Universe 2025, which will be happening on Oct. 08 in Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City

The perfect band-aid: 'Walang Aray'

 

By Philip Cu Unjieng

Published Sep 8, 2025 01:45 pm   

With a run at the PETA-PHINMA Theater that lasts until Oct. 12, you have no excuse for not catching this wonderful third iteration of "Walang Aray!"

Jun Reyes, founder of Indie Go Media and legendary commercial director, first commissioned playwright Rody Vera to modify and make ‘hip’ the original classic zarzuela Walang Sugat, which was written by Jun’s great-grandfather, Severino Reyes. Conceptualized as a screenplay in 2007, PETA suggested adapting it for the stage in 2018, with the addition of original music by Vince Lim. Directed by Ian Segarra, Walang Aray returns after a highly acclaimed 2023 run, with tweaks here and there, from casting choices to additional topical lines, that make this a fresh and vibrant viewing experience.

I have enjoyed Into the Woods, am ready to watch The Bodyguard, but as a Filipino, you really owe it to yourself to make Walang Aray your must-watch. And I’m saying this in the context of being Filipino, and not just because you’re a Filipino theater fan. It’s Philippine history, it’s issues of the present day, it’s side-splitting comedy, it’s brilliant music, it’s teleserye country, it’s constant breaking of the 4th wall, and pithy satire - all couched under the guise of an updating of the zarzuela genre. There’s genuine alchemy in how Vera’s book is merged with Lim’s songs and sifted through Segarra’s deft directing, conjuring up these magical two and a half hours of sheer theatrical havoc and fun!

Ice Seguerra taking his bow.

With most of the action set in a late 19th-century Manila theater where the zarzuelas would have been staged, our main protagonists are the singing star Julia and the man who is courting her, Tenyong. Then there’s Julia’s mother, Juana - the stage mother from Hell; and there are Monica and Lucas, the help of Julia and Tenyong. Other main characters include the rich theater benefactor Tadeo, with his shifty son, Miguel; and the shadowy Padre Alfaro, a villainous Friar. The different locations have connections to the impending Revolution, and are where the Katipuneros would congregate.

So, yes, if you want to call this our Hamilton, I’m not going to argue with you as long as it gets people to rush and get their tickets. Besides, it’s so much funnier than Hamilton, and there are actually more memorable songs. Lim successfully explores pop, the blues, rap, and ballads in the course of this musical. And you’ll love how, in true PETA fashion, there are no ‘sacred cows’ in the book's attack - jibes at the Church and Governor are expected. Still, Vera also pokes fun at his own heroes and their foibles, as well as questioning the Katipuneros and their motivation and resolve. Wonderful to see everyone being satirized.

Jolina Magdangal as Juana.

On the night I watched, the performers were a shout-out to inclusivity and trans-presence. Lance Reblando took on the role of Julia, while Ice Seguerra was Lucas. Jolina Magdangal portrayed Juana, Gio Gahol was Tenyong; and with Roi Galilong as Padre Alfaro and Bene Manaois as Miguel, there were more precious comedic moments than there are stars in heaven.

I watched with some friends from the French Embassy, and thanks to the subtitles flashed on two discreet screens, they could follow the action and storyline. It was their first experience of Filipino musical comedy, and they loved the energy, the singing, the breaking of the 4th wall, and the political overtones. They weren’t getting all the jokes, conscious that others were laughing around them when throw away lines referring to sabungeros and flood control were uttered; but they were all smiles when we left the theater.

To be critical, the second half doesn’t work as well as the first half, and there is the classic quandary of a somewhat abrupt resolution to bring things to a close - but these are very minor qualms. By and large, this is a theater experience that we should all enjoy and spread the word about. Original Filipino material, a musical that works, and satire that succeeds - it’s guaranteed fun, and given the current state of the world, we deserve the break.

10 situations where silence is the best choice

 10 situations where silence is the best choice

1)There are moments in life when silence becomes the wisest response. Staying silent is often the best choice when you don’t know the full story, as speaking without full understanding may lead to wrong assumptions.✨

2) When you're overwhelmed by emotions or unable to control them, silence helps prevent regret.

3) In the heat of anger, silence guards against saying things that could cause harm.

4) If your words have the power to damage a meaningful friendship or relationship, it’s wiser to stay silent.

5) Similarly, when you're unsure about a topic or lack the necessary knowledge, it’s better to listen than to speak.

6) When someone opens up about their struggles and vulnerabilities, silence shows respect and compassion.

7) If you find yourself unable to speak without yelling, taking a step back in silence allows you to regain control.

8) Sometimes, silence can preserve relationships that matter deeply.

9) Speaking only to boost your ego or seek validation adds no value, and in such times, staying quiet is more powerful.

10) Most importantly, if your words could betray someone’s trust, silence becomes a form of loyalty.✨

Gasoline, diesel prices hit record net increases as fuel hikes continue

 

Dominique Nicole Flores - Philstar.com

September 8, 2025 | 10:50am

MANILA, Philippines — Motorists should brace for another hefty pump price hike on Tuesday, September 9, with gasoline rising for the fourth week in a row, and diesel and kerosene on their third consecutive increase.

Gasoline prices are expected to rise by P1 per liter this week, alongside hikes of P1.40 for diesel and P0.70 for kerosene, according to oil firms.

Shell Philippines, Seaoil and CleanFuel announced the upward price adjustment in separate advisories on Monday, September 8. 

Industry experts and the Department of Energy's Oil Industry Management Bureau (DOE-OIMB) attributed the surge in fuel prices to sanctions imposed by the United States cutting into Iran’s oil revenue stream, compounded by falling Russian supplies amid heightened conflict with Ukraine.

As September began, pump prices increased by P0.70 per liter for gasoline, P1 for diesel and P0.70 for kerosene. The DOE said the earlier hikes at the end of August were also driven by failed US attempts to broker a ceasefire deal between Russia and Ukraine.

With this week’s hike, gasoline and diesel have reached record year-to-date net increases of P13.80 and P14.85 per liter, respectively. Kerosene has risen by a net P3.45 per liter so far this year.

According to DOE’s monitoring, prevailing retail prices of petroleum products in Metro Manila from September 2 to 8 were:

Gasoline (RON97/100) - P65.16

Gasoline (RON95) - P58.40

Gasoline (RON91) - P55.50

Diesel - P54.80

Diesel Plus - P56.30

Kerosene - P73.50

Fuel prices still vary across gas stations. While the figures cited reflect common prevailing retail rates, some stations charge higher or lower, with gasoline reaching as much as P76 per liter and diesel P70.30 per liter.

A 'from clasico to cuvee' evening

By Philip Cu Unjieng

Published Sep 5, 2025 10:55 pm   

A grand wine masterclass with Vega Sicilia and Macan wines was the fetching promise offered up by The Cellar at the Grand Hyatt. Ironically found on the second level of the BGC hotel, the watering hole is known for its solid and inviting interiors, and the Mediterranean-inspired menu, with a slant toward Spanish and French cuisine.

Cesar Roman and Ignacio de Mora

On the evening of the From Clasico to Cuvee launch, collaborator Txanton had put together a toast to Spain, with a guided masterclass of the heritage, nuance and bold expression of the vineyards of Macan and Vega Sicilia. Mr. Ignacio Calvo de Mora, the general manager of Macan, and Mr. Cesar Roman, regional manager for Tempos Vega Sicilia, were on hand to conduct the masterclass, and regale us with stories on the provenance of the two powerhouse wine brands.

The Jamon Iberico.

The special launch that had special guests of the hotel, and representatives from media, highlighted four of the estate’s wines: the Macán Clásico 2021, the Macán 2020, the Macán 2018, and the Macán 2014. The wines and the pairing of Messrs. de Mora and Roman represented the visionary partnership between Bodegas Benjamin de Rothschild and Vega Sicilia.

Besay Gonzalez of Txanton and Mark Hagan of the Grand Hyatt welcoming the guests

To complement the heady wine selection, we had live carving of Jamón Ibérico de Bellota by Txanton’s master carver, plus canapés from Diorella Ong, the Cellar’s chef de cuisine. Grand Hyatt’s F&B director Mark Hagan was our congenial host and kicked off the evening, before attending to the other major events happening at the hotel that evening, which included a Metrobank anniversary with more than 2,000 attendees.

The Jamon Croquettas and Cesar Salad

The pinxtos that accompanied our wine tasting truly enhanced our taste buds, adding to our appreciation of the estate’s products. First up were the Jamon Iberico croquettes topped with tomato chutney, and a wedge of Cesar salad, baby gem lettuce with idiazabal cheese, egg yolk confit and Jamon crumbs. I especially liked the tomato chutney garnishing on the croquette and how it rebooted our expectations of what a Jamon croquette would taste like.

Clockwise from top left, Boquerones, rib-eye, goat cheese, and pork belly

The next set of pinxtos was the quartet of the goat cheese with figs compote, the boquerones of marinated anchovies in vinegar with roasted piquillo pepper and olive oil, the pork belly with romesco sauce, pickled onion and chili, and the grass-fed rib-eye with chopped mushrooms and custard yolk. The goat cheese with figs, which I’m always partial to, would be my favorite among the four.

A main course of chicken and chorizo paella, accompanied by peppers, saffron, paprika and lemon, followed. Bringing the night to a close was the burnt Basque cheesecake with raspberry compote. You’d know what these dishes look like, so I did not bother with photos. I commend the generous serving of raspberry on the cheesecake, and how it added to our enjoyment.

Technically, I’m allergic to alcohol, so I could only sip the wines. But in terms of bouquet and flavor, I would recommend you join this masterclass while it’s still being offered, if only for the Macán 2014. The deep garnet color, the aromas of dark cherry, tobacco leaf, earthy spice and herbs are quite distinct, and make your head swim in a good way.

Had a wonderful evening, met some great new people, and I thank Francine Arias, director of marketing communications of the Grand Hyatt, for the invitation.  

Ghost projects, real consequences: Why every Filipino should care

By Ignacio R. Bunye

Published Sep 8, 2025 12:05 am | Updated Sep 7, 2025 03:59 pm  

SPEAKING OUT

Imagine waking up to flooded streets, missed work, and rising prices—then learning that billions of pesos meant to prevent those very problems were stolen.

That’s not fiction. That’s the reality behind the ₱118.5 billion ghost flood control scandal now shaking our nation. These weren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet.

That money could have built real flood defenses, created up to 266,000 jobs, and helped our economy grow stronger. Instead, it vanished—swallowed by corruption, mismanagement, and greed.

What we lost

We lost more than infrastructure. We lost trust. We lost time. We lost opportunities for our children to walk to school safely, for farmers to protect their crops, for workers to get to their jobs without wading through waist-deep water.

And while we struggle to make ends meet, a handful of contractors—just 15 companies cornered ₱100 billion—got rich off our taxes.

That’s not just unfair. That’s plunder.

What needs to change

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto has called this out. President Marcos Jr. has ordered investigations. But we, the people, must demand more than headlines.

We must demand transparency, accountability, and justice. We need a budget that works for us—not for ghost projects. We need leaders who protect our money like it’s their own.

And we need systems that make it impossible for this to happen again.

What you can do

This scandal isn’t just a government problem. It’s a citizen’s problem. Because every peso stolen is a peso we paid. Speak up. Ask questions. Vote wisely. Support media and watchdogs that expose the truth.

And never let anyone tell you that your voice doesn’t matter. Because when ordinary Filipinos unite, we become extraordinary. (totingbunye2000@gmail.com) 

Samal 5150 triathlon debuts in tropical style

 

By Manila Bulletin Sports

Published Sep 7, 2025 01:58 pm

On Sept. 21, the Island Garden City of Samal will transform into a world-class triathlon stage as the Damosa Land 5150 Triathlon makes its much-anticipated debut. But this isn't just a test of endurance – it's a full-blown racing experience set in one of the most breathtaking tropical islands in the country.

A tropical race paradise awaits.

On Sept. 21, the Island Garden City of Samal will transform into a world-class triathlon stage as the Damosa Land 5150 Triathlon makes its much-anticipated debut. But this isn’t just a test of endurance – it’s a full-blown racing experience set in one of the most breathtaking tropical islands in the country.

From crystal-clear waters to rolling coastal roads and vibrant local cheering squads, 5150 Samal promises a multisport adventure that racers and spectators will never forget.

The action kicks off in the stunning waters fronting Bridgeport, a luxury marina community in Brgy. Caliclic. Athletes will dive into a looped 1.5km swim course, tracing the sparkling coastline of Samal – a route that feels more like a vacation than a competition.

Racers will then conquer a two-loop, 40km bike ride along the scenic Samal Circumferential Road, offering postcard-perfect views of Davao Gulf and the Davao City skyline. The fully-enclosed route is as challenging as it is inspiring, with rolling terrain that tests legs and rewards with every breathtaking turn.

The race wraps up with a 10km run through Samal’s lively business district, where streets will be lined with enthusiastic supporters and local communities, creating an unforgettable finish line energy.

Spicing up the Samal 5150 is the Sprint Distance category (750m swim, 20km bike, 5km run), which offers both new and seasoned triathletes a taste of the Samal magic with a slightly shorter but equally electrifying challenge.

Hosted in Bridgeport, a 13-hectare East Coast-inspired marina community developed by Damosa Land, the venue is as luxurious as it is laid-back. Think resort-style amenities, full-service marina access, hiking trails, and stunning architecture – plus, it’s only a short ferry or powerboat ride from Davao City.

“This triathlon reflects our vision of creating spaces that promote wellness, community and sustainability. We’re proud to showcase Bridgeport not just as a destination, but as an experience,” said Damosa Land president Cary Lagdameo.

Organized by Sunrise Events, Inc., the Samal 5150 is part of the renowned 5150 and Sunrise Sprint series, bringing international-caliber racing to the Philippines’ most stunning destinations.

“This event will not only challenge athletes but also leave a lasting impression. Samal is the perfect backdrop for a race that’s both world-class and deeply Filipino,” said Princess Galura, president and managing director of SEI.

Whether you’re a seasoned triathlete or new to the sport, 5150 Samal is your chance to swim, bike and run in one of the country’s top tropical destinations.

Sydney Sweeney lands a knockout at TIFF with 'Christy,' stoking Oscar buzz

 

By Associated Press

Published Sep 7, 2025 09:36 am

TORONTO (AP) — Sydney Sweeney came to the Toronto International Film Festival wanting to talk about her new film “Christy,” not her American Eagle ad campaign. After a rapturous response to the movie, she’s getting her wish.

The 27-year-old, Emmy-nominated actor landed immediate Oscar buzz for her performance in David Michôd’s biopic of the boxer Christy Salters Martin. For the role, Sweeney transforms into the female boxing trailblazer who emerged out of West Virginia as the “Coal Miner’s Daughter” to rise to the top of her then-nascent sport.

Following a rousing reception from the TIFF audience Friday, Sweeney stood beside Martin on the stage of the Princess of Wales Theatre, calling it the experience of her life.

“It was a dream come true, as an actor, as a person,” Sweeney said.

While Martin had a career decorated with belts and a Sports Illustrated cover, her story is defined by struggle. She was raised to deny her gay identity and instead married her trainer, Jim Martin. After years of psychological and physical abuse, he attempted to kill her in 2010, repeatedly stabbing her and shooting her. Jim Martin was sentenced to 25 years in prison. He died last November.

Sweeney’s performance alongside Ben Foster, who plays Jim Martin, was swiftly hailed as her best yet. TIFF has long been a launching pad for Oscar campaigns before, and the thunderous reception for “Christy,” and particularly Sweeney, seemed sure to add her to the awards conversation.

Regardless, “Christy” gives Sweeney the best big-screen showcase yet of her rapidly evolving career. And given that she appears throughout it in short dark hair with a more muscular build, it’s also her grittiest and least glamorous performance to date.

Martin, praising Sweeney, explained how her boxing persona — bombastic, egotistical — didn’t reflect her shyness or her desire to help others. Since her near-death experience, Martin has worked to help domestic violence survivors

“I have those two parts of my personality. And I think that’s why Sydney Sweeney is doing such an awesome job,” said Martin. “She got to be this totally different person that none of you expected. She wasn’t the beautiful, sexy Sydney. She was the tough, rugged Christy.”

Going into the premiere, Sweeney deflected questions about her recent American Eagle ad campaign with the tagline “Sydney Sweeney has great jeans” — a pun on having “great genes.” Critics accused the ad for glorifying whiteness. The retailer has said the campaign “is and always was about the jeans.”

Ahead of the festival, Sweeney told Vanity Fair she was going to TIFF to support her movie. “I’m not there to talk about jeans,” she said. “The movie’s about Christy and that’s what I’ll be there to talk about.”

“Christy” will be released in theaters Nov. 7 by its co-producer Black Bear in the company’s first foray into distribution. Sweeney also serves as a producer on “Christy,” with Martin a consultant.

Sweeney said she trained three times a day for two to three months to prepare for the boxing scenes. She had a boxing coach, a nutritionist and weight trainers. “And a lot of Chick-fil-A,” she added. “A lot of milkshakes, a lot of protein shakes.”

“But it was incredible being able to completely embody such a powerful woman,” said Sweeney. “I felt even stronger.”

Zela drops debut album 'Lockhart,' reveals being bullied

By Robert Requintina

Published Sep 7, 2025 11:08 am    

P-pop soloist Zela has dropped her first album, "Lockhart," under AQ Prime Music, during a grand launch held in Quezon City.

The Filipino-American artist said the album has 10 tracks, six of which were written by her. The theme of her first album is empowerment, as evidenced by the lead single "ACE," which means "activate confidence to empower."

"These days, I want to use my platform for women's empowerment. Not just women, but for everyone," said Zela during the media conference. "But I really want to be the voice of women."

On why she chose "Lockhart" as the title of her album, she said, "My name is Zeila Lockhart. So it came from my last name."

Zeila, 24, debuted with the single "Karma" in 2023. Later, Zeila was honored as the Philippines' Top Pop New Artist of the Year at the 8th P-Pop Awards in December 2023. In February, she was also one of two Filipino artists who performed at the Waterbomb Festival in Manila, along with P-pop boy group BILIB.

"The Waterbomb Festival was my first big stage. I haven't tried the festival in South Korea before. But what was memorable was meeting Jessi, the main act for the second day of the festival. She also talked to me. She said, 'You are so skinny.' That for me was memorable because I really wanted to meet her," she said.

Actor-entrepreneur RS Francisco, also of AQ Music, said Zela has the potential to make it big in the music scene.

RS recalled that the team was organizing the group BILIB at the time Zela came into the picture. "Sabi ko, yan ang piliin natin kasi may potential."

Regarding plans for Zela, RS stated that the team had met with them to discuss a possible investment in Zela's career. "It is still being explored, so we can't talk much yet about it. So we're trying to elevate her so that hindi lang siya dito sa Philippines, but also abroad."

Looking back, Zeila said she was on vacation in the Philippines when she auditioned for AQ Music. "And then I got in. Now I have been here almost three years."

On dream collaborations, Zeila picked Sarah Geronimo and SB19. "I did a cover of 'Gento.' Naisip ko yun gawin since I am a rapper. Favorite ko rin yung song na yun."

Zeila also revealed that she was both bullied in the US and in Manila.

"Some say I have an intimidating aura. Maarte raw ako because I speak in English. But I am used to it. I ignore them," she said. Instead of being focused on negativity, I concentrate on writing songs."

Zeila said she was thankful that she could do everything on her own: she can sing, dance, and write songs.

"I do everything on my own. I don't have any group members. So I rap and dance. I have backup dancers, but I sing alone. So I think that's one of my strengths," she added.

"Lockhart" under AQ Prime Music is now available to stream on various music platforms.

Who we are in the eyes of God

 

By Fr. Roy Cimagala

Chaplain

Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE)

Talamban, Cebu City

Email: roycimagala@gmail.com

IT would be good if all the time we have it clear in our mind who we really are, what our true identity and dignity are, in the eyes, in the mind and heart of God. It would help us to stay calm, confident and happy despite the ups and downs of our earthly sojourn.

We are God’s beloved! His love for us, to put it bluntly, is the same as his love for his own self. And that’s because we have been created in very image and likeness, meant to share his very own life and nature.

In spite of our human limitations that are due first of all by our lack of faith in our true identity and by the misuse of our freedom and all the other God-given powers, God never fails to love us just the same. He would go to such an extent as to become man, to preach the Good News to us, and ultimately to offer his life for us. That way, he himself bears all our sins and conquers them with his resurrection.

To top it all, he remains with us all throughout time, his real presence and the ever-ready offer for our redemption are made available in the sacraments, especially in the Holy Eucharist. He knows our weaknesses, he knows that we continue to fall, and yet he is all there, ready to forgive us and to make us new again.

These considerations should always be in our mind. That is the real challenge because we all know that our thoughts and intentions, more often than not, are guided simply by our human reasoning, based mainly on feelings, on worldly standards, etc., rather on the gift of faith that God himself gives us.

God wants to share who he is and what he has with us. But it is us who fail to correspond to such tremendous gift and truth. It would be nice if from time to time, we pause and consider again this most wonderful truth about ourselves.

That awareness, nay, conviction, would help us to live good and happy lives, able to deal properly with whatever human situation and condition we may find ourselves in. We can have the strength to say “No” to temptations, and if ever we fall, we would not hesitate to go back to God, convinced that God’s mercy would always be given to us.

More than that, we would have the power to do a lot of good, to continue working with Christ for the redemption of mankind. Yes, we would be able to “bear all things and conquer all things.”

Yes, there’s really no reason for us to be too worried and anxious when we encounter some difficulty in our life. In fact, we have every reason to be confident and at peace, focused on what we are supposed to do. And that’s because we are always in God’s hands.

Whatever situation we may be in, we can be sure that God will always provide for what is truly needed by us, and it may not be what we want. We just have to trust him completely for he knows better than we do, and what we want may not be what we need. It may not even be what is good for us.

God always knows what to do in any situation we may find ourselves in. He may allow some evil to come to us, an evil that can do us no harm unless we let it, but God knows how to draw good from evil.

We should just remember who we are in the eyes of God!