GOSSIP GIRL: Meeting the Filipina Shirley Bassey of the Netherlands

BY GISELLE SANCHEZ

Jun 4, 2024 08:27 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Nhelley's journey on "Soundmixshow" in the Netherlands is a testament to her talent, perseverance, and the universal power of music.

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Nhelley de la Rosa

AMSTERDAM — We just finished celebrating the "Para Sa Pilipinas" event, an intimate concert at the Casa Sofia in Amsterdam dedicated to the birthday of the Vice President of the Philippines, Inday Sara Duterte. 

I am so blessed to have shared the stage with Shirley Bassey of the Netherlands, Nhelley de la Rosa.I was awed and amazed when I heard her sing. She deserves the title Filipina Shirley Bassey of the Netherlands. Nhelley de la Rosa has become a notable name in the Dutch entertainment scene, mainly through her participation in the renowned television show "Soundmixshow." 

This competition, a staple of Dutch television since the late 1980s, provides a platform for talented individuals to showcase their ability to imitate famous singers. 

Nhelley's journey in the show has been impressive, marked by her exceptional vocal skills and charismatic performance imitating Shirley. You can watch her Sound Mix performance by searching for Nhelley performing This is My Life, SoundMix Show. The next day, she toured around Amsterdam, and I got an exclusive interview. 

The author with Nhelley de la Rosa

“I was born and raised in the Philippines, Nhelley de la Rosa, and then I moved to Europe to pursue broader opportunities and a new chapter in my life. 

"My passion for music was evident from a young age. I was influenced by a rich cultural background celebrating musical talent in the Philippines. This passion set the stage for my future in the competitive world of music entertainment. 

"I am grateful for the 'Soundmixshow' because it was the turning point in my career. The show, which has discovered and nurtured many talented artists, requires contestants to mimic the style and sound of established singers convincingly. 

"My most notable performances include renditions of songs by international stars such as Whitney Houston and Celine Dion, Tina Turner, and, of course, Shirley Bassey," the singer tells me while touring me around the canals of Amsterdam. 

These performances not only won praise from the judges of SoundmixShow but also captured the hearts of the European audience. Her ability to deliver powerful and emotionally resonant performances made her a favorite to win the competition. 

Nhelley's success on 'Soundmixshow' has significantly impacted her career. It has opened doors to various opportunities, including recording deals, live performances, and appearances on other television programs. 

Her story resonates with many aspiring musicians, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds, showcasing that talent and hard work can overcome barriers. Of course, the success of one Filipino is the success of other Filipinos in Europe. 

Moreover, her journey on "Soundmixshow" has contributed to the cultural diversity of the Dutch entertainment industry. By embracing her Pinoy roots and blending them with her new experiences in the Netherlands, Nhelley has created a unique musical identity that appeals to a broad audience. 

What’s next for Nhelley. “Looking ahead, I am poised to continue my journey in the music industry. I want to thank Europe Pinoy, headed by Geraldine Hernandez-Martens, for allowing me to serve my fellow Filipinos by participating in this fundraiser so Mrs Martens can construct a school for children with special needs. I plan to release more original music. My experience on 'Soundmixshow' has equipped me with the skills and confidence needed to navigate the competitive landscape of the music industry."

Nhelley's journey on "Soundmixshow" in the Netherlands is a testament to her talent, perseverance, and the universal power of music. As she continues to evolve as an artist, she remains an inspiring figure for the Filipinos in Europe. She embodies the spirit of Pinoy determination and the pursuit of the Filipino dream.

Pope Francis appoints Filipino priest as ecclesiastical superior in Tuvalu

Fr. Eliseo Napiere. (Photo from Saint James the Less Catholic Church/WEBSITE)

By: Adrian Parungao - @inquirerdotnet

INQUIRER.net / 09:22 AM June 04, 2024

MANILA, Philippines — A Filipino priest based in California was appointed by Pope Francis as the ecclesiastical superior of the Missio sui iuris of Funafati, Tuvalu.

In the announcement of the Holy See Press Office posted on its website on Monday, the Vatican said Fr. Eliseo Napiere, a member of the Mission Society of the Philippines (MSP), will head the Missio sui iuris in the Oceanian country.

Currently, Napier is the parish priest of Saint James the Less in Perris, California.

“The Holy Father has appointed the Reverend Fr. Eliseo Napiere, M.S.P. until now member of the Presbyteral Council and parish priest of Saint James the Less in Perris, in the diocese of San Bernardino, United States of America, as ecclesiastical superior of the Missio sui iuris of Funafati, Tuvalu,” the Holy See said.

A Missio sui iuris is an independent mission conducted in areas with few Catholics, or in areas where Catholics experience persecution, and is headed by an ecclesiastical superior.

Napier was born in 1965 in Maribojoc, Bohol, and was ordained to priesthood in 1991.

He has served as a parish vicar in Cebu City from 1991 to 1992, a seminary scholastic director and procurator in Tagaytay City from 1992 to 1994, and has been on missionary assignments in Taiwan and the United States from 2007 to 2018.

12 Golden things you learned with age

 

1. Your friends no matter how close, will disappear with time.

2. The most important relationship in this entire world is the one you have with yourself.

3. Nobody cares about your hard work, they just look at the result.

4. Heart break and failures are part of life.

5. There's no place like home.

6. Family and money matters the most.

7. Book is indeed a person's best friend.

8. Physical activity reduces stress.

9. Wasting time in regretting and crying won't fetch you results.

10. Whatever you want today won't matter to you tomorrow.

11. Your decisions define your life, not fate.

12. Childhood is the golden time.

Thank you for reading 😊

Love our country

By: Cielito F. Habito - @inquirerdotnet

Philippine Daily Inquirer / 04:30 AM June 04, 2024

This is a plea, especially to our nation’s leaders, especially the politicians who wield power in both the political and economic realms. I know I’m far from being the only one who believes that if only most of you loved our country enough to put it ahead of furthering and perpetuating your personal power and wealth, our country and the bulk of our fellow Filipinos would be much better off today.

You would well know how the Philippines had progressively slid from the top to bottom position among its regional peers since the 1960s. We were the most dynamic economy in Southeast Asia and second richest in East Asia (next to Japan) in the 1960s but now rank the worst in most social and economic indicators that matter. A Korean friend once told me how on his first visit to Manila in the 1960s, he was awestruck with envy at our infrastructure and level of development that was well ahead of his own country then.

Neighbors from whom we now import rice and other farm products once sent their students to learn agricultural sciences in our country in my hometown of Los Baños, once the region’s knowledge center on the field. South Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, and India sent people to train at the Agricultural Credit and Cooperatives Institute in Los Baños, and have since demonstrated the power of farm cooperatives in uplifting their farms and farmers. Yet our own farm coops more often than not fail and collapse, leading many to believe that cooperativism simply will not work in the Philippines. We may have lost our cherished tradition of “bayanihan,” and have become too individualistic or “kanya-kanya” for sustained collective endeavors to prosper. Our concern for the common good now seems a casualty in the pursuit of selfish interest.

We need you, our leaders, to be always guided by the principle of the greatest good for the greatest number in the decisions you make and the actions you take. We need you to prove by your example that the common good and your personal welfare can actually come together. Many temptations come your way every day that pull you into decisions and actions that would increase your own wealth and power. Vested interests always surround you and strive to push you into actions that will lead to their gain, even if it means harm or loss to many, especially the powerless among us. But please think constantly of our country and how far behind it has fallen because people in power like you had chosen to set the common good aside, in favor of personal gain.

Law and politics in America

If you are a local chief executive, please do not be one whose first question to a potential investor is “What’s in it for me?”—then throw hurdles in their way if the answer is not to your liking. And please make it as easy as possible to start, register, and renew a business in your area, and recognize that these create jobs and incomes among your constituents, help uplift their lives, and ultimately strengthen your local economy.

If you are a member of either house of Congress, please take to heart your avowed mission of being a true representative of your constituents, whether they voted for you or not. Please also be mindful that the loudest voices and the strongest lobbies do not necessarily push in the right direction that will lead to the greatest good of the greatest number, which ought to be your yardstick. We implore you to be guided by evidence and sound analysis in the policy directions you take, which may not necessarily be what seems popular. And please focus on your role as lawmakers, as that is your only proper mandate from the Filipino public.

If you are a policymaker in the executive branch, please immerse yourself among the people you serve to be able to feel their problems firsthand and understand their true needs. If you are a member of the judiciary, please remember that you ultimately decide the fate of our people who count on the protection of the rule of law, which applies equally to everyone regardless of their social and economic stature. And if you are a public servant in whatever government department or office, please take on an enabling mindset rather than a restricting and regulating one to the point of inhibiting worthwhile private initiatives and enterprises.

Escudero says he mentioned Senate presidency to Marcos in 2022. Escudero says he mentioned Senate presidency to Marcos in 2022

Lastly, please be mindful that our country is in crisis on many fronts, the most fundamental of which is the very real threat to our future posed by our failure to care enough for our youngest children who are the very future of our nation. Too many of them are hungry and malnourished due to lack of income and unduly high food prices, and unable to obtain the right education due to numerous failures in our educational system. If we do not reverse these problems now, our very future as a nation is in great peril.

In the end, we pray that you show and practice genuine love for our country that would serve as a worthy example for all Filipinos to emulate.

A firefighter dies and a long-distance train derails amid heavy rains and flooding in Germany

BY ASSOCIATED PRESS

Jun 2, 2024 11:25 PM

  

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FRANKFURT, Germany — Flooding, high river levels and heavy rain led to the death of a firefighter and disrupted train travel in southern Germany on Sunday.

Sections of the city are flooded by water, in Reichertshofen, Germany, Sunday, June 2, 2024. (Sven Hoppe/dpa via AP)

The firefighter's body was recovered after an inflatable watercraft carrying four firefighters capsized as they navigated floodwaters to bring residents to safety in the town of Pfaffenhofen, on the Ilm River in the southern Bavaria region, the dpa news agency reported.

A long-distance train derailed after the ground under a section of track collapsed near the town of Schwaebisch Gmund some 50 kilometers (30 miles) east of Stuttgart late Saturday. The 185 passengers were uninjured.

German rail operator Deutsche Bahn warned of extensive cancellations and delays and told customers who postponed trips that their tickets would be honored. Traffic was disrupted on routes including those from Munich to Berlin, Stuttgart and the Swiss city of Zurich.

How teens can make the most of their vacation

Give back on your free time...

BY MANILA BULLETIN

Jun 2, 2024 01:54 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• There are many forms of volunteer work. There’s community service. There’s also environmental volunteering, as well as educational volunteering and social care.

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SALUTE TO VOLUNTEERS If you're hoping to find a meaningful way to spend your vacation, consider lending a hand to volunteer organizations

By JACQUELYN LUCERO

Images from LOOB INC., SOS CHILDREN'S VILLAGE PHILIPPINES, and the PHILIPPINE ARMY

Thinking of something better to do this summer vacation? Why not volunteer? Volunteerism is the act of giving your time and skills to help others without expecting any financial reward. It’s a powerful way to make a positive impact on your community and the world. Whether it’s helping at a local food bank, mentoring a student, or participating in a cleanup drive, volunteers play a crucial role in addressing social, environmental, and economic issues.

At its core, volunteerism is about selflessness and compassion. It fosters a sense of community and connectedness, bringing people together for a common cause. Volunteers often report feeling a deep sense of satisfaction and fulfillment from their work. They gain new skills, make new friends, and feel more connected to their communities.

There are many forms of volunteer work. Community service might involve helping in local neighborhoods, organizing community events, assisting in libraries, or supporting local shelters. Environmental volunteering includes activities like tree planting, beach clean-ups, and wildlife conservation efforts. Educational volunteering can involve tutoring students, helping in schools, or leading workshops to share knowledge and skills. In health and social care, volunteers might work at hospitals, senior homes, or support health campaigns and social services. International volunteering offers the chance to join global organizations to work on projects abroad, such as disaster relief, development programs, or cultural exchange initiatives.

The spirit of volunteerism is deeply ingrained in Filipino culture, often seen through the value of bayanihan, a tradition of communal unity and cooperation. Volunteerism in the Philippines has historical roots. During times of natural disasters, Filipinos have always come together to help those in need. This spirit of bayanihan is evident in how communities rally to support each other through various crises, from typhoons to volcanic eruptions.

Today, volunteerism in the Philippines is more structured, with numerous o r g a n i z a t i o n s dedicated to various causes. Disaster response is a significant area, given the country’s vulnerability to natural disasters. Many volunteers are trained in disaster preparedness and response, with organizations like the Philippine Red Cross playing a vital role. Education-focused programs, such as Teach for the Philippines, aim to improve the quality of education by placing volunteers in schools across the country. Environmental efforts by groups like the Haribon Foundation focus on conservation projects, encouraging volunteers to participate in activities like tree planting and wildlife protection. Community development organizations like Gawad Kalinga work on building homes and sustainable communities for the poor, relying heavily on volunteer labor and support.

While volunteerism is strong in the Philippines, challenges such as limited resources, a lack of awareness, and coordination issues can hinder efforts. The rise of social media and digital platforms, however, has created new opportunities for mobilizing volunteers, spreading awareness, and organizing efforts more efficiently.

For those interested in volunteering in the Philippines, it’s helpful to research causes that you are passionate about and look for organizations working in those areas. Reaching out to these organizations to inquire about volunteer opportunities is a good next step. Some volunteer activities may require specific skills or training, so be prepared to undergo orientation or training sessions. Once involved, dedicating your time and energy, even if it’s just a few hours a week, can make a significant difference. 

Check out some of these organizations and apply online. 

• SOS Children's Village 

• NGO Loob  

• Volunteer Match 

Check on these too:

 • Local LGUs 

• Senior homes in your area 

• Orphanages 

• Civil-Military Operations Batallion under the Philippine Army (check your local areas)

For teens on summer vacation, this is a perfect time to get involved in volunteer work. Instead of spending all your free time on leisure activities, consider dedicating some of it to helping others. Volunteering not only benefits your community but also helps you develop new skills, gain valuable experience, and make meaningful connections. It’s a chance to do something fulfilling and impactful, setting a positive example for your peers.

Before applying, ensure you meet these guidelines.  

• Age Requirement: You must be 18 years old or older. If you are under 18, make sure you are supervised by an adult or your teacher.

• Guidance: Seek guidance from an able adult or a mentor before applying, especially if this is your first time volunteering. • Peer volunteerism: If it’s your first time volunteering, consider doing so with your peers. Ensure adult supervision if you and your peers are under 18.

 • Local organizations: Choose organizations in your area to make volunteering more accessible. 

• Clear intentions: Be clear about your availability. If you can only volunteer for a few days or weeks, communicate this to the organization without hesitation.

Following these steps will help you have a successful and fulfilling volunteer experience. For those who are older or have volunteer experience, check out this list. 

 • iVolunteer

 • Volunteer World

 • Volunteer HQ

These links provide volunteer opportunities around the Philippines and abroad. Note that some programs may have associated fees. Be sure to read the details carefully and choose wisely. Volunteerism, whether in the Philippines or anywhere else in the world, is a testament to the power of human kindness and community spirit. It not only benefits those in need but also enriches the lives of volunteers, creating a ripple effect of positive change. By giving our time and skills, we can all contribute to a better, more compassionate world.

 

KlausDORING

Davao City, Philippines

I will be back here for sure!

Review of Malagos Garden Resort

Reviewed yesterday

It has been a never forgetting stay there. It was more than a vacation day. I am really speechless about such a wonderful place near Davao City. Allow me to mention especially Ms. Princess Anne Yucot for her unique service during lunch time.

Date of experience: May 2024

Ask KlausDORING about Malagos Garden Resort

For travellers and locals who are seeking to reconnect with nature, Malagos Garden Resort is an agri-ecotourism resort that offers an all-inclusive hospitality experience - from dining, accommodation, recreation to wellness activities - in a sustainable farm setting. With the resort’s commitment to a service that is guest-oriented, environmentally ethical, and considers a positive impact in the community, guests may enjoy an ultimate vacation experience while being one with nature.

 

Just dreaming when in Davao

Review of GV Hotel Davao City

Reviewed 2 days ago

The stay was amazing and unique. The staff friendly and well trained. I can only tell you: If you are in Davao book your overnight stay here even for several nights. Very recommended is the breakfast. You will start the day with energy and in very good mood.

Date of stay: May 2024

Trip type: Traveled on business

Value

Rooms

Location

Cleanliness

Service

Sleep Quality

SEAG queen Kim Mangrobang rules HOKA Trilogy Leg 2

BY NIKOLE JAVIER

Jun 2, 2024 01:39 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Southeast Asian Games three-time gold medalist triathlete Kim Mangrabong is happy to see more people take interest in running.

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Running is all about community. 

Southeast Asian Games three-time gold medalist triathlete Kim Mangrobang is happy to see more people take interest in running. 

 

Filipina triathlete Kim Mangrobang (kimmangrobang Instagram)

 

This, as the 32-year-old national team member ruled the women’s 10K category of the HOKA Trilogy Run Leg 2 in Manila on Sunday morning, June 2, at the MOA Complex. 

Mangrobang covered the distance at 40 minutes and 44 seconds, almost two minutes clear of Mea Gey Ninura in second place followed by Jessah Mae Roba, who both crossed the finish line within a second of each other. 

Last February, Mangrobang made a similar conquest in the 5150 Triathlon CamSur. 

Unlike in the first leg of the progressive marathon concept in April organized by RUNRIO Inc. CEO and Founder Rio Dela Cruz, temperatures were a little cooler and a lot more bearable for the long-distance participants in the second installment. 

“Nag-eenjoy ako pag nagra-race ako ng trilogy run. RUNRIO races are always organized. And I also meet a lot of runners around Metro Manila,” Mangrobang said. 

“Ngayon summer kaya medyo humid. Kahit 4 a.m. grabe na ‘yung pawis. Of course with proper hydration nakakatulong ‘yun after intense running,” she added. 

Last April, RUNRIO held three separate branded events which include the HOKA Leg 1 followed by the Samsung Galaxy Earth Day Run before capping off the busy running month with the country’s longest-running event in Milo Marathon in back-to-back weeks, all of which Mangrobang believes is the reason why it has become more accessible and easier to get into. 

Despite the heat index rise in the past two months, runners all over the Metro have never ceased to show up — for themselves and their community. 

“Nakakatuwa na ang dami na ulit community runners. Marami pa ‘yung nagsisimula. Nakaka-proud lang makita ngayon unlike before [kaunti lang]. Mas marami na talaga sila ngayon,” Mangrobang said. 

“Ang dami ng mga group runs ngayon. Siyempre nakakatulong tong mga ganitong events for our health and [building community]. I think ‘yung mga ganitong events [fuel that]. Running is all about community.” 

Though denied of her dream four-peat in the previous SEA Games edition in Cambodia in 2023, Mangrobang is not slowing down from any type of competition as she seeks to get back on track as the region’s best woman triathlete next year. 

Catindig offers Alas’ historic bronze to past national team players

 

By: Lance Agcaoili - @inquirerdotnet

Dawn Macandili Catindig Alas Pilipinas AVC Challenge Cup

Dawn Macandili-Catindig during Alas Pilipinas’ bronze medal game against Australia in the AVC Challenge Cup.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.neet

MANILA, Philippines — Dawn Macandili-Catindig offered Alas Pilipinas’ historic bronze medal in the AVC Challenge Cup to the past Philippine women’s volleyball team players, who have been part of the program’s ups and downs.

The veteran national team libero was one of the two remaining members of the 2018 Asian Games team with captain and setter Jia De Guzman ushering in the Alas era of the national team.

Catindig and De Guzman provided great leadership to the young Nationals and made history by winning bronze in the country’s successful Challenge Cup hosting — the program’s first AVC medal since 1961.

Although only two of them were the holdovers of the past national squads, Catindig still credited the current team’s success to the former players since she started representing the country in 2017.

“Para ito sa mga ate ko na nag simula ng Women’s Volleyball sa Pilipinas at sa mga nakasama ko sa NT, sa hirap at ginhawa. Salamat sa mga pangarap niyo dahil ito’y patuloy na umaagos sa puso ko at patuloy ko kayong ipaglalaban,” wrote Catindig, who teamed up with former national stars Alyssa Valdez, Jaja Santiago, Aby Maraño, Jovelyn Gonzaga, and Mylene Paat in the past.

“Salamat sa mga taong dumating sa buhay ko dahil patuloy akong natututo at nai-inspire dahil iisa lang ang ating pangarap. I love working with people who are as passionate and hardworking,” she added.

Catindig protected the country’s floor with Jen Nierva as Alas swept Pool A for a breakthrough semifinal appearance in the AVC but got swept by finalist Kazakhstan. On Wednesday, the Nationals completed their historic run with a bronze-clinching win over Australia.

Despite going through a lot of heartbreaks as a national team player with three straight fourth-place endings in the past Southeast Asian Games, the Cignal HD Spiker was fulfilled after a great run with her younger teammates like Angel Canino, Thea Gagate, Fifi Sharma, Eya Laure, and Sisi Rondina.

“Thank You [Lord] for giving me the strength to continue despite the heartbreaks. Every year, You give me renewed hope that it’s gonna be different. That I might make a difference,” said Catindig, who thanked all her teammates, coaches, their fans, the Philippine National Volleyball Federation, and her mother team, Cignal.

“Thank you cap, (Jia) for steering the ship. You keep us grounded! I got yo.

Catindig is part of the PNVF’s long-term plan as president Tats Suzara expressed his intention to keep this bronze medal team and pool members Bella Belen, Alyssa Solomon, and Casiey Dongallo.

The national team mainstay believes the best is yet to come after showing a lot of promises despite the limited time to prepare.

“We started with no expectations, less than a week to train together, and a challenge in front of us. I’m so proud of all these people who embraced their roles and did it with all their heart FOR THE TEAM. That is why it was easy to play with a light heart because everyone was working hard and at the same time respecting each other’s space,” Catindig said.