Finally, a nation cares for its caregivers

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Dec 5, 2023 06:05 AM

  

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In our lives, caregivers have played an integral role, from the moment we are born, during times when we are ill or incapacitated, or during old age. Their roles are indispensable, yet for far too long, they are vulnerable in the absence of legal protection. 

By definition of the law, a “caregiver” refers to licensed health care professionals voluntarily registered with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and those duly assessed and certified by TESDA. They may be employed directly, full time or part time, part of a private household or nursing facility. To put it simply, a caregiver is someone who gives care to another individual or group of people. 

Over the years, there has been no definitive law protecting a caregiver. This absence has led to a litany of abuses — substandard wages, unfair employment terms, substandard working conditions, etc. The list goes on, and this cycle of abuse has placed a burden on caregivers who only want to have a decent employment. 

This cycle, however, doesn’t need to go on with the signing of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Nov. 23, 2023, of a law that sets policies aimed at protecting the rights and welfare of caregivers. This is Republic Act (RA) 11965 or “An Act Institutionalizing Policies for the Protection and Welfare of Caregivers in the Practice of their Occupation.”  

“It is hereby declared the policy of the State to recognize the role of caregivers in national development and to institute policies in the practice in the occupation with the end in view of developing competent caregivers whose standards of professional service shall be excellent and globally competitive,” according to RA 11965.

Under this new law, caregivers are assured that their rights are protected. They must be entitled to an employment contract guaranteeing at least a daily minimum wage. They fall under the coverage of existing labor laws, ensuring overtime pay for extended working hours and night shift differentials for those working in the evening. Add to these, they should be paid on time, either once every two weeks or twice a month at intervals not exceeding 16 days.  

With the law, they are also entitled to a 13th-month pay, paid leaves, plus coverage by SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG. Departments such as DOLE, TESDA, and the Migrant Workers (DMW) are tasked to oversee the implementation of the law. The DMW is also mandated to oversee protection of Filipino caregivers being deployed overseas. 

The signing of the law by the President was welcomed by various sectors, especially among those who have noted that this is not only timely but relevant in this day and age when Filipino caregivers are in such high demand here and abroad. 

“As we recognize the important role of our caregivers in national development, we must ensure they are protected against abuse, harassment, and economic exploitation,” said Sen. Joel Villanueva, one of the co-authors of the law.

All laws signed by the President are relevant in their ways and in the national context, but RA 11965 marks a significant milestone as it finally recognizes the invaluable contributions of thousands of caregivers — unsung heroes — who tirelessly care for the sick, the vulnerable, the elderly. This law is long overdue, yet we welcome its arrival as this signifies that the nation is finally ready and legally able to truly care for its caregivers. 

Phivolcs: Surigao del Sur aftershocks now over 1,500

This photo shows an aftermath of the Magnitude 7.4 quake in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.

Ian Laqui - Philstar.com

Hinatuan Local Government Unit / Released

MANILA, Philippines — Following the magnitude 7.4 earthquake which rocked Surigao del Sur on Saturday, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology on Monday said that it has recorded 1,583 aftershocks so far.

Phivolcs director Teresito Bacolcol said that the figures were logged as of 5 a.m. on Monday.

Meanwhile, Bacolcol said that the tsunami warning which was issued after the magnitude 7.4 earthquake has already been lifted according to Bacolcol.

He also said that the magnitude 6.8 Sarangani earthquake which occurred in November has no connection to the Surigao del Sur tremor.

“We have six active trenches and we have 175 active faults, so there is always a probability na puwedeng magkasabay," Bacolcol said in an interview with Teleradyo Serbisyo.

(We have six active trenches and we have 175 active faults, so there is always a probability that they can occur simultaneously).

“We’re part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, ineexpect na talaga natin yang marami tayong earthquakes, marami tayong active faults, marami tayong active volcanoes, and pwede magkasabay-sabay ‘yan,” he noted, highlighting that experiencing nearly 20 minor tremors a day is considered normal.

(We're part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, so we really expect to have many earthquakes, numerous active faults, plenty of active volcanoes, and those can happen simultaneously.)

He also cautioned the public that if a comparable magnitude 7.4 earthquake will occur along the West Valley Fault, it could result in 33,000 casualties in Metro Manila.

In a seperate interview with the STAR, Department of Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said that the magnitude 7.4 earthquake that shook Surigao del Sur was undoubtedly a significant event that can be likened to the "Big One" that Metro Manila should adequately prepare for. 

“Magnitude 7.4 is a major earthquake," Solidum said.

As of writing, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said that the Surigao del Sur quake left one dead. It added that its field officers are validating the damage and number of people affected by the earthquake. — with reports from Bella Cariaso.

Which is the most spiciest German cuisine?

 

Volker Eichener

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Professor at Hochschule Düsseldorf

Studied Political Science & Sociology at Ruhr University BochumGraduated 1999

Löwensenf (“lion’s mustard”) from Düsseldorf, which is a really spicy mustard, much spicier than Dijon mustard.

Also, the Germans eat horseradish. Traditionally, horseradish was eaten with salmon, obviously in times when the fish was not fresh. Later, horseradish was watered down with cream and today we do not eat horseradish any more together with high-quality salmon.

There are few dishes which were prepared with good amounts of pepper, e.g. Pfefferpotthast, a Westphalian beef stew. However, the amounts of pepper which were listed in historic recipes disappeared with time. Same with Sauerbraten, another dish from medieval times which was rather spicy.

German cuisine became rather bland, partly because hot spices did not grow in Germany but had to be imported, so they were very expensive.

However, after WW II, exotic spices became available again and some Germans learned to like spicy food, first from the Balkan, later also from China, Turkey, U.S. or Mexico. After the war, the Currywurst was invented, a bratwurst in a ketchup-like sauce with curry powder. Some like to spice it up, even with pure capsaicin.

However, most Germans still have a problem with spicy food. The first chilis (“peperoni”) were served in Balkan restaurants, but quickly, mild peperoni replaced the hot ones. A couple of years ago, the first habanero chiles occured in Germany. Today, you can buy habaneros which aren’t hot anymore. Very strange.

Where true justice and peace can be found

By Fr. Roy Cimagala

Chaplain

Center for Industrial Technology and Enterprise (CITE)

Talamban, Cebu City

Email: roycimagala@gmail.com

ONLY in Christ, of course, can we find true justice and peace. Outside of him, forget it. We can only have, at best, some appearance of justice and peace, but not the real ones. In time, the consequences of the counterfeit justice and peace will surely be exposed.

We are reminded of this truth of our Christian faith in the readings of the Mass of Tuesday of the First Week of Advent where we are told that “a rod out of the root of Jesse, and a flower shall rise up out of his root. And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him: the spirit of wisdom, and of understanding, the spirit of counsel, and of fortitude, the spirit of knowledge, and of godliness.” (Is 11,1-2) 

And in the responsorial psalm of that day, these beautiful words are said, which describe the effects of how the spirit of God will have on this rod out of the root of Jesse: “Justice shall flourish in his time, and fullness of peace for ever.” (Ps 72,7)

We should just try our best that we base our search for true justice and peace on Christ, the personification of the “rod out of the root of Jesse” that was foretold in the Book of Isaiah. We have to be wary of our strong tendency to rely mainly on our own estimation of things, on our ideologies and philosophies, in our search for justice and peace.

As we can see now, especially in the so-called developed countries that have all but abandoned God and religion in general, and are simply depending on their own ideologies, there is clearly a quagmire of acrimony and finger-pointing. 

Even the commonest of common sense is contradicted as when some people claim that they have a right to abort, or kill, a baby at birth. Politics is not anymore a pursuit for the common good, with God as the ultimate common good, but rather a brazen conspiracy to acquire power and to keep it as long as possible. Of course, it would just be a matter of time before violence, and even war, would erupt.

We need to make a shout-out for the need to return to God if we want to have true justice and peace. With him, as taught and shown by Christ in the Holy Spirit, and as promoted consistently by the Church, we are sure to find justice and peace in spite of our unavoidable differences and conflicts. With him, we can still hold on to the power of love that knows how to keep the unity in the truth among ourselves despite our differences and conflicts.

Obviously, to be able to return to God, we need a lot of faith. We just cannot depend on our reasoning and estimation of things. Thus, in the gospel of the day, Christ told his disciples how lucky they were because they knew Christ. “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see,” he said. “For I say to you, many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it.” (Lk 10,23-24)

We should always make Christ as the beginning and end of all our efforts to find true justice and peace in this world!

Philippine Fairy Tales (VIII) - Philippinische Märchen (VIII)

Warum es Erdbeben gibt...

Why there are earthquakes...

In alten Zeiten war das friedliche Land der Tagalen ein blühendes Land. Es herrschte dort ein gerechter König. Die Leute liebten und ehrten ihn. Aber keiner von ihnen hatte den König je gesehen. Sie wussten nur, dass er Lakan Adya hiess. Die Bewohner des Landes führten ein glückliches Leben. Es plagten sie keine Sorgen, sie hegten keine Feindschaft gegeneinander, das Büse waren ihnen fremd, einer nannte den anderen seinen Bruder oder seine Schwester.

Eines Tages wurden sie von Feinden überfallen. Diese entmachteten den gerechten König Lakan Adya, und da ihnen seine Kraft Angst einflösste, schleppten sie ihn auf den Berg San Mateo. In einer finsteren Höhle schmiedeten sie ihn an zwei grosse Steine an. Die Tagalen weinten ihrem König bittere Tränen nach. Seit dem Tage, an dem die fremden sie unterjocht hatten, kannten sie keinen Frieden und keinen Wohlstand mehr. Die Eroberer brachten Unglück, Leid und Not mit sich. Am tiefsten jedoch fühlten sich die Tagalen durch ihre Erniedrigung verletzt. Sie glaubten fest daran, es werde einmal der Tag kommen, an dem König Lakan Adya seine steinernen Fesseln sprengen und sich befreien wuerde. Jedesmal, wenn es ein Erdbeben gab, dankten sie Gott, denn sie glaubten, Lakan Adya bemühte sich , aus seiner Höhle herauszukommen und lasse die Felsen erbeben. Sie glaubten fest daran, bei jedem Erdbeben breche ein Glied seiner Kette entzwei und der König mache mache mehr und mehr seinen mächtigen Körper von den Felsbrocken frei.

"Er muss nur noch einen Fuss freimachen", sagten sie. Sie hofften, dass sie wieder frei und glücklich sein würden und vergossen bittere Tränen.

Diese Sage geht bei den Nachkommen der ehemaligen Untertanen Lakan Adyas HEUTE NOCH!

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In ancient times, the peaceful land of days was a prosperous land. There is a just king there. People love and honor him. But none of them had ever seen the king. All they knew was that his name was Lakan Adya. The country's residents lead happy lives. They had no worries, they had no enmity against each other, evil was alien to them, one called the other his brother or his sister.

One day they were attacked by enemies. They deposed the just king Lakan Adya, and because his power frightened them, they dragged him to Mount San Mateo. In a dark cave they forged it to two large stones. The days wept bitterly for their king. Since the day the strangers subjugated them, they have known no more peace or prosperity. The conquerors brought misfortune, suffering and hardship with them. However, the days feel most deeply hurt by their humiliation. They firmly believed that the day would come when King Lakan Adya would break his stone bonds and free himself. Every time there was an earthquake, they thanked God because they believed that Lakan Adya was trying to come out of his cave and was making the rocks shake. They firmly believed that with every earthquake a link in his chain was broken and King Mache Mache released more and more of his mighty body from the boulders.

“He just needs to clear one foot,” she said. They hoped that she would be free and happy again and shed bitter dreams.

This legend STILL runs today among the descendants of Lakan Adya's former subjects!

Was die deutschsprachige Märchenliteratur anbelangt, so ist das im Dausien-Verlag (1978) erschienene Buch "Philippinische Märchen" sehr zu empfehlen. Man findet es ab und an im Antiquariat oder bei ebay. 

5 signs that mean your aircon system needs immediate attention or upgrading

Philstar.com

Given its importance, air conditioners can develop problems over time. Some of these issues can be subtle, while others are unmistakable indicators that your AC needs immediate attention or even an upgrade.

MANILA, Philippines — Even during the chilly holiday season, it's not uncommon in the Philippines to experience unexpected bouts of heat, making our air conditioning systems just as essential as they are in the peak of summer.

Given its importance, air conditioners can develop problems over time. Some of these issues can be subtle, while others are unmistakable indicators that your AC needs immediate attention or even an upgrade.

How can you tell if your air conditioning system has been trying to get your attention, signaling that it's time for maintenance or an upgrade? Here are five signs to watch out for.

1. Strange noises

Unusual or loud sounds coming from your air conditioning system, like clanking, rattling, hissing or banging, are clear indicators of a problem. 

These noises can result from loose or damaged components, a failing compressor or debris inside the system. Ignoring these sounds can lead to more significant issues and should prompt immediate attention.

2. Excessive cooling time

If your AC takes longer than usual to cool your space or fails to achieve the desired temperature, it's a red flag. This issue could stem from a clogged air filter, refrigerant leaks or a worn-out compressor. 

What’s worse, such prolonged cooling times not only lead to discomfort but can also increase energy consumption and utility bills.

3. Inefficient cooling = higher bills

When your AC works harder to maintain your desired temperature, it not only compromises your comfort but also significantly increases your energy expenses. This can result from an undersized system, poor insulation or a failing compressor. 

So always make sure to check your monthly electricity bills and compare energy consumption as upgrading to a more energy-efficient unit can alleviate these problems and help you save on long-term operating costs.

4. Unpleasant odors

Foul or unusual odors emanating from your AC vents can signal that your system needs attention. 

Musty or moldy smells could indicate mold or mildew growth within the unit, while burning odors might suggest electrical issues.

Addressing these odors promptly is essential for maintaining good indoor air quality and preventing further damage to your AC system and even to your health. 

5. Repairs cost as much as a new unit 

It’s not about “girl math,” it’s just about being smart and practical.

For budget-conscious individuals, it's common practice to assess whether a repair is more cost-effective than opting for a replacement. However, when you find yourself scheduling repair after repair for your AC system, and the repair bills start rivaling the price of a new unit, it's a clear signal that it's time to consider an upgrade. 

Older AC units tend to demand pricier components and labor for repairs, which can quickly add up. Evaluating the overall cost of repairs against the benefits of investing in a newer, more energy-efficient system is crucial.

What to consider when upgrading

When it comes to upgrading your air conditioning system, several crucial factors deserve careful consideration. 

In the Philippines where sweltering temperatures are a common challenge, finding a cooling solution that not only provides comfort but also addresses rising electricity bills and the expenses of maintenance and repairs is essential.

Here’s where the Carrier Aura Inverter, Carrier's most efficient split-type inverter air conditioner, enters the picture. This cutting-edge system is designed to offer the highest energy savings, making it a smart choice for Filipino families looking to enhance their home comfort while keeping their budget in check. 

Here are compelling reasons why Carrier Aura Inverter is all about efficiency and why it is the upgrade you need for your ultimate comfort. 

First, lowest wattage. The Carrier Aura Inverter boasts low wattage consumption at just 560W for a 1.0HP unit, unlike other any other type of split-type AC which usually ranges from 670W to 700W. This translates to substantial energy savings.

It is also energy efficient, with an energy consumption rate of only P1.13 per hour (based on testing), which assures you that it’s a cost-effective cooling solution that won't burden your budget.

Moreover, the Carrier Aura Inverter has a number of intelligent, user-centric features that even makes the device more efficient. 

For instance, it has a game-changing intelligent eye sensor that allows the device to conserve energy when no human presence is detected

Other intelligent features include the Breeze Away Technology that enhances your comfort by redirecting airflow intelligently; the Customizable Fan Speed that adjusts the fan speed from 1% to 100%; the "Follow Me" Convenience feature that enables the unit to reach the desired set temperature where the remote control is located; and a vertical and horizontal 4-Way Airflow Control for even distribution of cool air throughout the room.

Moreover, Carrier embraces being a dependable brand for your AC needs by offering exceptional after-sales service with experts accessible through hotline number 2277437 and online channels—ensuring that your AC upgrade is as worth it as possible.

This holiday season, make your home ready to host and ensure your AC is in top, most efficient condition. 

Elevate your home cooling experience with the Carrier Aura Inverter, your dependable inverter in beating the heat while safeguarding your savings and preserving invaluable family moments.

 

OPM greats gear up for 'YuleStars Christmas Concert Series'

(Clockwise from top left) Joey G, Angeline Quinto, Ogie Alcasid, Nina, Roselle Nava, Jose Mari Chan and Christian Bautista.)

Anticipation is building up as top OPM singers get ready for the YuleStars Christmas Concert Series, set on November 30, December 1 and December 2 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theater.

Spearheaded by the Philippine Military Academy Alumni Association (PMAAAI), the series stars Joey G and Angeline Quinto with special guest Ice Seguerra for the November 30 concert; Jose Mari Chan, Christian Bautista and Roselle Nava with the Kilyawan Consortium of Voices for the December 1 show; and Ogie Alcasid and Nina and special guest Ice Seguerra for the December 2 performance.

All artists are excited about their respective repertoire, and looking forward to present their musical numbers. "The fans will surely enjoy this concert and we will make sure to bring joy and Christmas feels to our audience," Quinto said.

"The audience can expect us to sing our love songs and beautiful Christmas songs," reiterated Alcasid.

Aside from the lineup of tunes (that singers usually get to sing only during this season), Nina said that YuleStars is significant to her for two reasons: "One, because it will be the first time Kuya Ogie and I will be together for a concert, two, it is with great pleasure that I get to share my music and talent for such a great cause."

Proceeds of the YuleStars Christmas Concert Series will go to the less fortunate members of the Philippine Military Academy Alumni Association Inc, particularly the fallen and injured personnel and their families.

In separate video messages shown on the Philippine Military Academic Facebok FB page, Department of National Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr., encouraged military and civilians to support the concert series.

General Brawner said, "Giving and sharing are the true meaning of this season. The help that will be given through sponsorship or by watching the show will come a long way for PMAAAI to continue supporting its beneficiaries.

The YuleStars Christmas Concert Series tickets are available via Ticketworld.com.

48 matches usher in World Beach Pro Tour Challenge in Nuvali

BY MANILA BULLETIN SPORTS

  

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AT A GLANCE

• There are 16 teams each in the men and women main draw and the qualifiers alone, according to Suzara, have 32 teams for each gender representing more than 30 countries.

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Forty-eight qualification matches scheduled over 10 hours usher in on Thursday, Nov. 30, a Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour (BPT) Challenge Philippine leg at Nuvali that is bursting at the seams with the host Philippine National Volleyball League (PNVF) needing at least five hotels in and out of Santa Rosa City to billet athletes and officials.

Foreign teams take their turn to train at the Nuvali Sand Courts.

“It’s the biggest beach volleyball competition the country has ever hosted,” PNVF president Ramon “Tats” Suzara said on Wednesday. “It’s the biggest and most prestigious with Olympic and world champions and top-ranked athletes converging in Nuvali.”

There are 16 teams each in the men and women main draw and the qualifiers alone, according to Suzara, have 32 teams for each gender representing more than 30 countries. 

Dozens other teams in both genders are also in town as reserves in the tournament supported by gold sponsors Ayala Land, Mikasa, Senoh, Philippine Sports Commission, Pinay In Action and Smart as gold sponsors and PLDT, Gatorade, Maynilad, Rebisco, Ayala Malls, Department of Tourism, CBPI, Club Laiya, Foton as bronze sponsors.

Nuvali, through Ayala Land, built four world-class and FIVB-standard sand courts and one practice court on a sprawling area fronting Landers.

Hotels within the Nuvali area have overflowed that the PNVF had to book participants in hotels in Silang, Alabang and Batangas.

The qualification matches on Thursday start simultaneously in all four newly-built courts at 8 p.m. with the last matches set for 6 p.m.

The main draw proceeds Friday with simultaneous matches serving at 9 a.m. with the day’s competitions ending with 9 p.m. matches.

Teams have tested the courts in training since last Tuesday, including the Philipine squads coached by Brazilian Jao Luciano Kiodai. 

“We’re going to expect the best of the bests here,” Kiodai said. “But the most important here is to introduce to the Philippines the high level of beach volleyball. “It’s going to be hard, but the process is much more important than the results we are going to have,” said Kiodai, who’s been handling the national squads for a year now.

Jovelyn Gonzaga and Sisi Rondina won the gold medal last year in Subic but the duo already reverted to indoor volleyball, handing the mantle to veterans Jen Eslapor and Floremel Rodriguez and national team first-timers Sofiah Pagara and Khylem Progella.

Kiodai set potent expectations for the nationals.

“We already showed in the last Asian Games that we can play in the world and play the best we can,” he said, referring to last year’s Future finalist Eslapor and Rodriguez, who posted a Philippine-best fifth place finish in Asiad beach volleyball in Hangzhou. 

The Philippine men’s teams are Ran Abdilla and Jeron Requinton, Anthony Arbasto and Alche Gupiteo and the veteran pair of James Buytrago and Rancel Varga.

Queendom Divas to captivate audiences in Queendom: Live this Dec. 2

Hail to the new queens!

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Nov 30, 2023 10:38 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• After consistently delivering their best performances and belting their hearts out on GMA’s“All Out Sundays,”the young and Kapuso homegrown Divas are ready to reign supreme on the concert stage.

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Prepare for an evening filled with mesmerizing harmonies, phenomenal performances, and a symphony of sensational vocal prowess as the Divas of the Queendom — Rita Daniela, Hannah Precillas, Thea Astley, Mariane Osabel, Jessica Villarubin, and Julie Anne San Jose — are more than ready for their first ensemble concert titled “Queendom: Live” this Dec. 2, 8 p.m. at the Newport Performing Arts Theater.

After consistently delivering their best performances and belting their hearts out on GMA’s “All Out Sundays,” the young and Kapuso homegrown Divas are ready to reign supreme on the concert stage. Expect them to create a dynamic fusion with their diverse styles, taking fans and concert enthusiasts on a journey through genres and eras, soul-stirring anthems, and heart-pounding pop hits. 

“World-class concert ‘Queendom: Live’ stands as GMA Network's special tribute to the unwavering support of fans who have championed Rita, Hannah, Thea, Mariane, Jessica, and Julie. They have made their hometowns proud following their triumphs in GMA’s singing competitions and now give immense pride as the Network’s most-prized singers. Synergy remains steadfast in supporting their continued success as they flourish on the world stage. We’ve heard the clamor of the public to bring them together in one major concert stage. Definitely, a Christmas treat to our Kapuso as we usher in the holidays,” says Senior Vice President and Head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV and Synergy Oliver Victor Amoroso.

“We are very much excited for this project that brings together to one stage, and in front of a live audience, six of Kapuso Network’s highly-talented homegrown artists. To Julie, Rita, Hannah, Thea, Mariane, and Jessica, and to the whole production team of “Queendom: Live,” congratulations in advance! This concert is a testament that the Network’s artists and talents are undeniably high-caliber and world-class and that we are truly capable of bringing superior entertainment to all our audiences,” expresses Consultant for Business Development Department III Darling de Jesus-Bodegon.

Meet the Queens

Rita Daniela has been garnering applause ever since she won “Popstar Kids” in 2005. Since then, she has also gone on to become a formidable dramatic actress. Known for her soulful voice and expressive performance style, Rita has definitely earned her title as “The Undeniable Star.”

Hannah Precillas is a true powerhouse diva who first made waves as the Grand Winner of “Bet ng Bayan” in 2014. She has also competed internationally and placed as a finalist in a singing competition in Indonesia. From being the unmistakable voice behind the theme songs of hit teleseryes such as “Maging Sino Ka Man,” “Kambal, Karibal,” “Onanay,” “Legal Wives,” and more, Hannah has rightfully earned the title “Kapuso OST Princess.”

When it comes to providing soulful vocals, Thea Astley is definitely topnotch! This singer/songwriter was first launched onto the stage through her finish as the 1st runner-up on “The Clash” Season 2. Having come a long way from her beginnings in Doha, Qatar, Thea is continually living up to her title as “The Kapuso Soul Princess” with her distinct vibrato and vocal range.

Originally hailing from Iligan City in Mindanao, Mariane Osabel bested all the others and won as the Grand Champion on “The Clash” Season 4. There, she was dubbed as “The Ultimate Siren,” and now, as one of the Queens, Mariane provides amazing high-hitting performances and harmonies like no other.

Jessica Villarubin, meanwhile, is a vocal revelation from Cebu. When she joined the third season of “The Clash” in 2020, she displayed exceptional singing techniques and vocal stamina, which made her shine among the rest and emerge as the Grand Champion. The “Power Cebuana Diva” also went viral with her collaboration cover of a Celine Dion classic.

No stranger to the concert scene, “Asia’s Limitless Star” is set to deliver a remarkable performance on “Queendom: Live.” Julie Anne San Jose started young on “Popstar Kids,” and since then, she has consistently been raising the bar as a female vocalist. One of the best-selling recording artists of the country, Julie Anne is known as the youngest recipient of the Diamond Record Award from the Philippine Association of the Record Industry. 

With many musical awards under her belt, it’s no wonder why Julie Anne was chosen as host of “The Clash” and gained a spot as one of the Superstar Coaches on “The Voice Generations.” She also achieved another milestone with her online musical trilogy concert entitled “Limitless,” which received the silver award in the Entertainment Special: Variety Special Category at the 2022 New York Festivals TV and Film Awards.

Get ready for a spectacular night

With these six amazing powerhouse divas all on one stage, they are ready to rule and raise the bar as one! Get ready for the ultimate diva experience as they sing their fans’ playlist picks and bring out both what their audiences have been clamoring for, as well as surprising renditions of well-loved classics and new hit songs. Concertgoers should not miss out as well on the special performances prepared by the divas' surprise guests.

Directed by Miguel Tanchanco and made possible through GMA Synergy and GMA Entertainment Group, “Queendom: Live” will be a milestone moment in these women’s musical journey. Together, they will create a vocal and visual spectacle that aims to empower women to rise up and claim their crowns and thrones as true Filipina queens. 

Tickets for “Queendom: Live” are available via www.gmanetwork.com/synergy and ticketworld.com.ph.

Philippine Fairy Tales (VII) - Philippinische Märchen (VII) - Warum die Mango herzförmig ist

WARUM DIE MANGO HERZFÖRMIG IST?

In einem Dorf, das in Kalibo, in der Gegend von Aklan lag, lebte in alten, alten Zeiten ein Mann. Er war ungestüm und polterte wie der Donner, dessen Namen er auch trug: Daeogdog. Doch Daeogdog ehelichte die feinfühlige, gütige und kluge Frau Mabuot. Sie hatten eine anmutige Tochter, Aganhon, deren Schönheit der des Morgensterns glich.

So verfloss ein Jahr ums andere, und Aganhon wuchs zum schönsten Mädchen heran, das man je gesehen hatte. Werber kamen aus nah und fern und hielten um ihre Hand an. Vater Daeogdog erwählte für seine Tochter einen Mann, der Maeopig hiess und gleichzeitig auch sehr ungestüm war. Kniefällig bat Aganhon ihren Vater, er sollte sie nicht zwingen, Maeopig zu heiraten. Auch Mabuot vergoss Tränen, um das Herz ihres Mannes zu erweichen.

"Nein", entschied der Vater. "Aganhon wird Maeopig heiraten!"

Sie setzten den Tag der Hochzeit fest. Maeopig tanzte vor Freude, dass er das schönste Mädchen für sich gewonnen hatte. Aber die Braut weinte, tagelang schloss sie sich in ihrer Kammer ein.

Der Hochzeitstag brach an. Gäste füllten Daeogdogs Haus. Die Feierlichkeiten sollten jeden Augenblick beginnen, doch wo war Aganhon? Sie war nicht mehr in ihrer Kammer. Sie war nicht mehr im Haus. Sie war im gesamten Dorf nicht mehr zu finden.

Man fand sie in der Nähe der Quelle tot auf, und zwar mit einem Dolch in der Brust. Daeogdog schloss sich im Hause ein und raufte sich in seiner Verzweifelung die Haare.

In der auf das Begraebnis folgenden Nacht erschien dem Vater Aganhons Geist. Dieser befahl ihm, er sollte sich am Morgen zur Quelle begeben, er würde dort einen Baum mit herzförmigen Früchten finden.

"Nimm diese Früchte als Andenken an die, deren Herz du gebrochen hast!"

Am nächsten Tag in aller Frühe lief Daeogdog zur Quelle, von der der Geist gesprochen hatte. Und führwahr, vor ihm stand ein dichtbelaubter Baum und von seinen Ästen hingen einige herzförmige Früchte. Doch anfangs getraute sich niemand, von diesem Obst zu essen. Sie aßen es erst, nachdem ein beherzter Mann eine Frucht gepflückt und sie mit Appetit verzehrt hatte.

Daeogdog war sehr gerührt und sehr betrübt zugleich. Er sagte den Leuten, sie sollten den Baum züchten, damit er alle Väter daran gemahne, nie ihre Kinder zu etwas zwingen, was wider ihren Willen sei.

Bald wuchsen im Dorfe viele solche Bäume. Auf ihnen reiften herzförmige Fruechte und die Menschen haben ihnen den Namen MANGO, was herzförmig bedeutet!

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WHY IS THE MANGO HEART SHAPED?

In a village that was in Kalibo, in the area of ​​Aklan, there lived a man in ancient, ancient times. He was impetuous and rumbled like the thunder whose name he also bore: Daeogdog. But Daeogdog married the sensitive, kind and clever Mrs. Mabuot. They had a graceful daughter, Aganhon, whose beauty was like that of the Morning Star.

Year after year passed, and Aganhon grew into the most beautiful girl anyone had ever seen. Suitors came from near and far to ask for her hand in marriage. Father Daeogdog chose a man for his daughter whose name was Maeopig and who was also very impetuous. Aganhon begged her father not to force her to marry Maeopig. Mabuot also shed tears to soften her husband's heart.

“No,” the father decided. "Aganhon will marry Maeopig!"

They set the wedding day. Maeopig danced with joy that he had won the most beautiful girl for himself. But the bride cried and locked herself in her room for days.

The wedding day arrived. Guests filled Daeogdog's house. The celebrations were about to begin, but where was Aganhon? She was no longer in her room. She was no longer in the house. She could no longer be found in the entire village.

She was found dead near the spring with a dagger in her chest. Daeogdog locked himself in the house and tore his hair out in despair.

On the night following the burial, Aganhon's spirit appeared to the father. He told him to go to the spring in the morning; he would find a tree with heart-shaped fruits there.

"Take these fruits as a souvenir of those whose hearts you have broken!"

Early the next day, Daeogdog ran to the spring the spirit had spoken of. And sure enough, in front of him stood a densely leafy tree and some heart-shaped fruits hung from its branches. But at first no one dared to eat this fruit. They ate it only after a courageous man plucked a fruit and ate it with appetite.

Daeogdog was very touched and very sad at the same time. He told people to grow the tree to remind all fathers never to force their children to do anything against their will.

Soon many such trees grew in the village. Heart-shaped fruits ripened on them and people gave them the name MANGO, which means heart-shaped!

(Nacherzählt von Jozef Genzor, aus dem Slowakischen übersetzt von Dr. Anna Fialova und herausgegeben in der CSSR, deutsche Ausgabe: Verlag Werner Dausien, Hanau/Main, 1978). 

(Retold by Jozef Genzor, translated from Slovak by Dr. Anna Fialova and published in the CSSR, German edition: Verlag Werner Dausien, Hanau/Main, 1978).