The sleeping dinosaur of Davao Oriental is now awake

This gem of a province in the Davao Region has only been declared insurgency-free and development-ready in 2022

BY AA PATAWARAN

Aug 6, 2024 05:35 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• There’s so much hope in Davao Oriental, truly, as Mindanao has long been called, ‘the land of promise.’

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STAIRCASE FROM HEAVEN Aliwagwag Falls cascade down a path of boulders from Mount Agtuuganon in the Diuata Mountain Range

Have you been to Davao?

If I asked you this question, you’d probably say yes, even if all you’ve ever been to is Davao City. Geographically a part of Davao del Sur, Davao City is now independently run as the commercial capital of Southern Mindanao. It is roughly three and a half hours away from Mati, the capital of Davao Oriental, up and down the Surigao-Davao Coastal Road, past Tagum, the capital of Davao del Norte, along the coast of Davao Gulf.

CARNIVORE The carnivorous pitcher plant at the Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary

Unless you’ve been to Davao lately, chances are you have never been to Davao Oriental. I didn’t know until I made it there that it was only two years ago that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) declared it insurgency-free. No doubt, it hadn’t been easy, dismantling the guerilla front composed of the New People’s Army (NPA) and its supporters among the people of Davao Oriental, the lifeblood of the communist-terrorist movement, which once kept the province off-limits to investors, entrepreneurs, tourists, students, and migrants. Among the major moves, according to the AFP, was a community support program aimed at regaining the trust of the people, especially in the hinterlands. It’s a landmark turn in Davao Oriental’s history because the insurgency-free declaration also means it is also now development-ready. 

THE CHURCH IN CARAGA Inside San Salvador del Mundo Parish Church, built in 1861, rebuilt in 1877 of wood, coral, and limestone

Already, it feels so welcoming. When the Philippine Travel Agencies Association of the Philippines (PTAA), led by its vice president for outbound travel Evelyn Bondagjy and PRO Jaison Yang, paid Davao Oriental a visit to heed its call for tourists, a grateful people received them with arms wide open and with bibsized multi-colored bead necklaces handcrafted by the women of Mandaya, a tribe who, having resisted colonizers for centuries, once lived upstream, along the mountain ranges of Davao Oriental, Davao del Norte, Surigao del Sur, and the highlands of eastern Mindanao. There were about 33,000 Mandaya registered as of 1988, 22,000 of them in Davao Oriental alone, which is home to four other major indigenous groups—the Mansaka, Manubo, Tagacaulo, and Kalagan.

WELCOME The Kagayan women at Davao Oriental Welcome Park

Upon arrival, disembarking from a bus that took us from Davao International Airport in Davao City, we were taken to a roadside café called Kagan, the entry point to Davao Oriental Welcome Park in Barangay Pintatagan in the town of Banaybanay, designed as a stopover for those embarking on long road trips across the region.

Kagan Café offers halal food and traditional Kagan or Kalagan specialties, including native snacks like jaral, a spring roll stuffed with coconut candy, and jampo, the Kalagan version of fried bananas. The snacks went well with the Kagan specialty coffee made of local Arabica slow-roasted, as the Kagan ancestors used to do, on firewood over a very low fire, and then combined with corn to produce a perfect, healthy blend.

At the welcome dinner hosted by Mati Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat at the Adelina Hotel and Suites, we were treated to a cultural show and a boodle fight, which was the work of former NPAs, who have been given every opportunity to reintegrate themselves into society. There’s so much hope in Davao Oriental, truly, as Mindanao has long been called, “the land of promise.”

REINTEGRATION The boodle fight, courtesy of reformed insurgents, at the welcome dinner hosted by Mati Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat at the Adelina Hotel and Suites

At the moment, Davao Oriental is a nature trip. Among its wonders is the Aliwagwag Protected Landscape, a nature reserve and a force of nature should you visit in the right season when the headwaters of the Cateel River rampage down the slopes of the 1,660-meterhigh Mount Agtuuganon in the Diuata Mountain Range, over boulders of heights ranging from 1.8 to 33.5 meters, which make the multi-tiered waterfalls seem like a staircase from fairy heaven. Folklore has it that Aliwagwag Falls is a gift of the gods to the Mandaya of Cateel, a second-class municipality in Davao Oriental, but it really is a gift, as Aliwagwag serves as a major drainage catchment in Mindanao as well as a water source for surrounding rice fields and communities not only in Davao Oriental but elsewhere in the region.

Make time to visit the Mount Hamiguitan range, a 6,834-hectare national park and wildlife sanctuary, inscribed in 2014 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in the town of San Isidro. The 1,620-meter-high mountain, along with the surrounding forest and woodland, is a treasured biodiversity spot, housing wildlife populations that are also rare, threatened, endangered, including the Philippine eagle, the Philippine warty pig, the Philippine cockatoo, and the bleedingheart pigeon, as well as several species of Nepenthes, the carnivorous pitcher plant. In all, this protected area of terrestrial and aquatic habitats is home to 1,380 species of flora and fauna, 341 of which are endemic to the region.

Those who love old churches cannot skip the San Salvador del Mundo Church in Caraga. The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) declared it a national historical site in 2012. This Roman Catholic parish church in one of the oldest settlements in Mindanao, after all, dates back to 1861, although it was only rebuilt into its current wood-and-stone structure in 1877, six years after the Jesuits took over the Augustinian Recollects in spreading Christianity on this side of Mindanao. The church is also a repository of such old things as the antique San Isidro Labrador statue, the 222-yearold church bell, and the giant seashells that have been repurposed into holy water fonts since two centuries ago. You might be disappointed, however, that the church doesn’t look like a church from a different time, limewashed or whitewashed as it was during restoration in 2020 on the recommendation, according to the parish priest, by the NHCP. But maybe give it time. Washes on old buildings are often so translucent they allow the texture of the underlying surface—the limestone, corals, and wood in the case of San Salvador del Mundo Church—to show through after a while.

AWAKENING The 'Sleeping Dinosaur' on Pujada Bay on the Pacific Coast

Nearby, also in Caraga, is Pusan Point on the easternmost tip of the Philippines, the first in the country to receive sunlight as the sun rises on the eastern horizon. On the edge of the open ocean, the Pacific, this 12-meter-high rock promontory boasts of two concrete lighthouses, a gigantic sundial, a 4.9-meter-tall Jubilee cross on the cliff dropping dramatically into the Pacific, and a museum showcasing Mandaya culture.

Also on the Pacific Coast, on breathtaking Pujada Bay within the 21,200-hectare Pujada Bay Protected Landscape and Seascape, lies the “Sleeping Dinosaur.” Seen from atop a cliff, where we were served local coffee with which to take in the view, the dinosaur-shaped island on the tranquil bay looked every inch a metaphor for Davao Oriental and the rest of Mindanao, Davao Occidental included, which have yet to emerge from the dark of neglect, insurgency, corruption, and underdevelopment.

Come to think of it, maybe the “Sleeping Dinosaur” is a metaphor for the rest of the Philippines. Sleep, sleep the sleep of babes, and rouse when it’s time, when we’re ready.

Angeli Khang and Robb Guinto talk about their ‘firsts’

 

Nathalie Tomada - The Philippine Star 

August 7, 2024 | 12:00am

Viva Entertainment's OTT platform Vivamax is banking on Angeli Khang (left) and Robb Guinto for its first theatrical release, the girls' love-themed story 'Unang Tikim,' which is opening in cinemas today. 

MANILA, Philippines — Vivamax stars Angeli Khang and Robb Guinto are, for the first time, moving from streaming to the big screen in “Unang Tikim.” Viva Entertainment’s three-year old OTT platform is banking on Angeli and Robb for its first theatrical release, a girls love-themed story.

“Pressure, fear over judgement again, especially that this is the big screen, mainstream naman, then we’re the first,” expressed Angeli when asked how it felt to topbill Vivamax’s foray into cinemas.

Robb added that besides the pressure, they’re feeling grateful for being entrusted with the project.

“Pressure in a way na wow thank you for trusting us, mas mata-trust pa namin yung sarili namin para mabigay namin yung bestest namin,” added Angeli.

The first time Angeli and Robb acted together was in Brillante Mendoza’s Vivamax film “Virgin Forest.” They also tackled their first mainstream project together, via GMA Public Affairs’ recently concluded action drama series “Black Rider.”

They became close in real life, which in turn, posed some challenges for them as they tackled the intense scenes in their first big-screen outing together.

For example, the first scene they shot was them having a “tampuhan” or fight. Robb said, “Ang hirap sa amin nung first scene because we never experienced having a ‘tampuhan.’ We’ve promised each other to always be open to each other and never hold back any sama ng loob. So we ended up laughing while filming.”

Angeli also recalled, “But thankfully, natawid namin yung scene.”

There was also awkwardness in filming the love scenes.

“May awkwardness pa rin,” said Robb. “Nagtatawanan kami kasi with us girls normal sa atin yung magki-kiss sa cheek, yung smack lang…”

Angeli added, “But it’s a different story, yung fini-feel mo tapos dahan-dahan, then you have to stare at each other (laughs).”

Robb continued, “In our love scenes, kapag nagkaka-eye to eye kami, we’d burst out laughing, we can’t help it!”

To get past the tendency to laugh, Angeli said, “That’s why we wouldn’t look each other in the eye, body to body lang. There are scenes, I think that body lang tinitingnan namin sa isa’t isa.”

Robb further shared that because of their laughing fits and awkwardness, “Ang daming takes nung first love scene, like four or five takes. Sorry direk Roman!”

Direk Roman Perez Jr. incidentally is also their first director of their first films, individually, on Vivamax — Robb’s “Siklo” and Angeli’s “Taya.”

Now that we’re on the subject of first times, The STAR also asked Robb and Angeli some of their firsts in an exclusive inerview.

First audition:

Angeli: “My first audition was for a cosplay event. Because I watched anime, I saw an Otaku gathering where people could cosplay. I auditioned for that, and after that, it led me to modeling and now, I’ve also become an artista.

Robb: “For me, it was probably when I joined a famous magazine… Playboy magazine, so that was my first audition. That’s where my career started, and from there, I got into modeling and eventually joined Viva.”

First acting role:

Robb: “It was for my first movie here (Vivamax), ‘Siklo’ directed by direk Roman Perez Jr., same (director for) ‘Unang Tikim.’ That was my very first acting experience. I think, I had a one-month workshop then sinabak agad ako sa movie so it was nerve-wracking because I didn’t know what to do at first and I was afraid of making mistakes since it’s really scary to mess up. Well, it’s okay, but of course, as a first-timer and acting with veterans like Ms. Alma Moreno and Sir Joko Diaz, there was definitely pressure. But at least, direk Roman was there to guide me.”

Angeli: “First acting role was also for ‘Taya,’ also my first movie with direk Roman. Before that, I had acting workshops for two months. I also did a workshop for beginners where I learned things like ‘look at yourself in the mirror…’ Then eventually, I learned there are different methods pala. I had an acting coach who said it should come from the heart. Kasi lagi ko siya tinatanong, okay ba acting ko, sabi niya, okay, basta sa puso m

First big purchase:

Angeli: “Condo but down payment. Until now, I’m still paying with the help of my projects. Also my first car. I also started a food business.”

Robb: “I got myself a house. Ganun din, hulugan but at least, you can really say it’s yours. Actually, construction is still ongoing. I also bought a car. And I was able to save for enough for a small business (vaping business).”

First celebrity crush:

Angeli: “Pag napanood mo ‘to, friends po tayo. But before, I looked up to this person (in terms of talent), his hard work in acting, and when I used used to work with him, parang wow, I thought, I also want to be like this person someday. So naging crush ko siya, si Paolo Gumabao. He’s one of the reasons why I got deep into acting because ang galing nila ni Kuya Timmy (Sid Lucero).”

Robb: “Local wala. Kasi mga gusto ko K-pop. One (celebrity crush) is Captain America Chris Evans, and among the Korean (stars), Hyun Bin.”

First time a co-star flirted with you:

Both: Wala! (Laughter)

First time to be starstruck:

Angeli: “With Susan Africa, just her presence and her acting will draw you in. Inaantay ka niya, so that you can also bring out your side… nagbubuhatan kayo sa scene. No words needed, you can see right away how great she is as an actress.”

Robb: “For me, Alma Moreno. She’s the first veteran actress that I got to work with through ‘Siklo.’ In one scene, I asked her for advice on the best expression or approach to use. She taught me. I thought she was strict at first, but she turned out to be really kind.”

First major challenge in showbiz:

Robb: “There are people who will always put you down. No matter how hard you try for yourself, there will always be people who say, ‘You don’t really belong there, you can’t act, they were just forced to put you in that role.’ That’s the most challenging part for me. That’s the most challenging part for me.

“But wala sa utak ko na para gumanti. Ang ginagawa ko, mas pinapatunayan ko na lang sa kanila na mali yung perception nila. For me, actions speak louder than words.”

Angeli: “I could not let go of my emotions (character) dahil puro drama yung scenes ko and every movie ko puro drama, laging sinasaktan tapos maybe it opened my past trauma na hindi sinasadya kaya nasasama ko siya sa every day life ko (to the point that) ‘di ako marunong makipag-usap, sa friends ko, family.

“I’m thankful that Boss Vic (del Rosario) gave me six months of rest. After that, it was like a restart, back to zero again, nakikipag kilala ulit sa (mga tao) and ready to shoot again.

“During that break, (I spent my time at) church, with my family, went outing with friends, enjoyed food trips, comfort food, and self-care. Because I got depressed. I also had alopecia. And I tried therapy. What I learned from that is, don’t think twice about getting help like therapy or from a psychiatrist. Yun ang pinag-aralan nila so they would know the solution.”

LIST: Philippine rainy season destinations — digital travel platform

Kristofer Purnell - Philstar.com

August 6, 2024 | 11:36am

 

The Chocolate Hills in Bohol and Hidden Beach in Palawan

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is currently at the peak of the rainy season, meaning Filipinos will want to travel to sunnier spots during these months.

There are over 7,000 islands in the country, meaning there are options abound, but digital travel platform Agoda is highlighting three destinations in particular — Palawan, Bukidnon, and Bohol — as ones people can enjoy year-round. 

The platform noted that the three locations often see relatively drier weather during the monsoon months that peaks from July to October, making them worth visiting during the rainy season.

"While summer might be the popular choice, destinations like Palawan, Bukidnon, and Bohol showcase the beauty and adventure the Philippines has to offer even during the monsoon season," stated Michael Hwang, Country Director, Agoda Philippines.

Palawan

Palawan is best known for its many beaches and the rich biodiversity on the entire island, but there are more experiences to enjoy on the popular tourist destination. 

The platform highlights the half-day tour of Puerto Princesa City visiting World War II landmarks like the Plaza Cuartel and the majestic Cathedral, as well as a Farm Tour in Coron Natural Farms to learn more about sustainable agriculture (with fresh farm-to-table meals to boot).

A visit to the Palawan Heritage Center will show a closer look at the island's history, indigenous culture, and biodiversity while the KaLui Art Gallery that features works from local artists.

Bukidnon

Known as the "Fruit and Vegetable Basket of Mindanao," Bukidnon province is celebrated for its agriculture and ecotourism, but again there is more to it than meets the eye.

Visitors can make peaceful stops in the Monastery of Transfiguration in Malaybalay City or the Del Monte Clubhouse in Manolo Fortich. 

A guided tour in Talaandig Cultural Center in Sungco, Lantapan offers a chance to see the Talaandig tribe's traditional performances of music, dance, and storytelling.

More of the Northern Mindanao region's cultural and tribal history can be seen in Kaamulan Folk Arts Museum and Bukidnon State University Museum.

Bohol

Like Palawan, Bohol is an island that boasts of natural beauty be it through beaches or the many locations within the island proper.

These include Baclayon Church and the Cambuhat River and Village, the latter organized by community-based sustainable ecotourism involving mangrove tours and insights into local fishing practices.

Speaking of locals, there are many hands-on cooking classes of traditional Boholano cuisine that can be booked as well as an opportunity to see a traditional Mazurka Boholana folk dance performance at any local gathering.

Philippine Eagle ‘Uswag’ dies 1 month after release

BY KEITH BACONGCO

Aug 5, 2024 03:12 PM

  

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DAVAO CITY – Philippine Eagle “Uswag” died after the raptor crashed and drowned in the coast of Baybay City in Leyte on July 30, just a month after its release in the forests of the province. 

The Philippine Eagle Foundation said in an incident report on Monday, August 5, that Uswag, which was equipped with a solar-powered global positioning system transmitter, may have crashed into the sea sometime on July 30 based on GPS record.

USWAG flies during its release in Leyte last June 28. (Keith Bacongco) 

It coordinated with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and other partners to conduct a search and rescue operation on July 31.

“But after July 31, we have not received any GPS reading until August 2 that stated that Uswag was already along the coast between Poro and Ponson Islands (Camotes Islands) in Pilar, Cebu,” Dr. Jayson Ibañez, PEF Director for Operations, said.

The PEF searched the coast of Baybay City on August 1 with the assistance of the Philippine Coast Guard. Heavy rains prompted them to abort the search after 14 hours at sea and covering 700 hectares.

The following day, PEF and PCG continued the search between the shores of Baybay and Cuatros Islas and covered an area of about 6,000 hectares. They still failed to find the carcass of the eagle. 

After 42 hours of search covering about 1,000 hectares, Uswag’s carcass was eventually retrieved near Ponson Island in Pilar on August 3.

It was brought to the College of Veterinary at Visayas State University in Baybay City for necropsy. An X-ray was conducted in a pet clinic. 

Based on veterinarian’s estimates, Uswag has been dead four to five days before it was retrieved.

“There’s no foul play, no indication that it was shot. It’s just accidental drowning,” Ibañez said.

Ibañez added that Uswag was healthy and fit and there was evidence based on field observations that it has already hunted successfully in the wild during the first few days after his release.

Uswag, a male Philippine Eagle about three- to four-years-old, was released along with female eagle named “Carlito” in the forests of Barangay Kagbana in Burauen, Leyte last June 28.

Ninth case

Ibañez said that Uswag was the ninth documented case of an eagle that crash-landed at sea since 1993.

He theorized Uswag may have lost his flight bearings and was sucked towards the sea by the rains and winds from the southwest monsoon or “habagat.” 

Like Uswag, the eight other eagles that crash-landed at sea were also immature eagles.

USWAG’S transmitter showing latest location between Poro and Ponas Islands Camotes Islands on August 2. (PEF)

Seven of these eight eagles that crash-landed in the water were from coastal towns in Mindanao.  The other one crash-landed at Lake Lanao in Lanao del Sur.

The PEF said that Uswag was the first reintroduced wild eagle and the first with a GPS tracking device to crash at sea. 

The other eagles were untagged. But seven out of eight birds were miraculously alive and saved by fishermen, the PEF said.

Ibañez they will investigate Uswag’s case further and ask assistance from government experts to study how weather patterns affect the movement of Philippine Eagles.

He said that they are saddened by the incident but said that it also serves as a lesson to further improve their release and conservation decisions.

“We will further investigate and explore systematic GIS mapping and modelling of topography, wind patterns, and other climate parameters at these crash sites to determine patterns and assess risks,” Ibañez said.

How to prep for heavy rains

 Here are some ways to keep safe in such harrowing conditions

BY POCH EULALIA

  

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After the recent onslaught of Typhoon Carina, w e are yet again reminded of the importance of being prepared for heavy rain. If you live in areas that are affected by stormy weather, always remember to stay safe and keep dry. Here are some ways to keep safe in such harrowing conditions. 

Stay alert 

To best combat natural calamities, you must stay well-informed and updated of your surroundings. Tune in to the news for daily weather updates and listen to announcements by your local government. Keep an eye out on the water level outside and ensure you have a way out, should you need to flee. When treading the flood, be wary of any wires hitting the water, sharp objects floating around, or holes that you might not spot beneath the floodwater. 

Keep things charged 

If the power hasn’t gone out yet, make sure all your devices are plugged in and fully charged. You’ll need your phones to keep in touch with friends and family during emergencies. Prioritize charging any power banks you have on hand to ensure you have a spare source of power for your devices. Ensure you have batteries for your emergency light devices and flashlights. If you use candles and lanterns as a light source, always remember to blow out the fire if not in use. 

Stock up on resources 

It pays to be prepared. Always have your pantry stocked with canned goods and ready-to-eat meals to ensure you have food to take on the move if you need to. Be sure to also keep a can opener or knife on hand for opening the containers. Other essentials besides food are cash, medicine, spare batteries, and flashlights or emergency lights. 

Stay indoors 

As much as possible, do not venture outside your home. Stay indoors until any rain and floodwater has subsided. Pay close attention to any announcements from your local government to see if you need to vacate the area. If you do, try to wait out for rescue. If not, take full caution in treading floodwater. 

Stay in touch 

Always have a contact you can readily provide updates to. Start a family group chat and have your location pins enabled on your devices. This will help others keep track of your whereabouts in case of any emergencies. Here’s a list of some emergency contact numbers to keep in mind: 

Keep safe, everyone!

GOSSIP GIRL: The ‘90s: A decade of band scene history in one book

BY GISELLE SANCHEZ

Aug 6, 2024 09:55 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• “Tugtugan Pamorningan” by Susan Claire Agabayani chronicles the Philippine music scene from 1990 to 1999.

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The author at the backstage of the Electric Fun concert of the Eraserheads in March 1996. (Photo by Eddie Boy Escudero) 

Nothing will ever beat the band scene back in the 1990s. If you are a fan of the Eraserheads, Parokya ni Edgar, Razorback, Intorvoyz, Wolfgang, After Image, The Dawn, or even solo musicians like Francis M, Gary Valenciano, Martin Nievera, Nonoy Zuñiga, Basil Valdez, and Lani Misalucha, you need to buy this book, which chronicles every band and musician during the ‘90s. “Tugtugan Pamorningan” by Susan Claire Agbayani chronicles the Philippine music scene from 1990 to 1999.  

The title is befitting of the era  where both me and Agbayani would be rocking out in the audience in Club Dredd - Agbayani as the head of the  public relations of most  bands during the nineties….and me as the official and only approved “groupie”  (I did the approving as well) of my husband Emil Buencamino, who was the drummer of Aftermath (an alternative band he shared with Rommel Sanchez, now the fifth member of Eraserheads. Aftermath’s career was short-lived.) 

The author is flanked by Gary Valenciano and Martin Nievera in mid-1990s.

I asked Agbayani what her main goal was in documenting the Philippine music scene of the 1990s. “I wanted to push forward the truth that the 1990s was one of the golden ages of Philippine music or OPM. There was so much musical production and consumption during this decade or era. Hataw rin ang live music.” As a “dalagang ‘90s," I totally agree with the author! 

Agbayani’s research process was long and tedious, with many challenges. Agbayani tells Gossip Girl,  “I wrote the book one story at a time, from 1990-1999. All 68 stories. More stories should be part of this collection, but we couldn't find them during the production of the book….stories that couldn't be seen because they were never digitized; some publishing firms where I wrote didn't have the vision to archive their publications; the sad fact that the internet is not forever as many of my archive stories are now lost.

The author with Wency Cornejo, the energetic vocalist of Afterimage in mid-1990s at  Chatterbox 

I crowdsourced stories and pictures, but the villains were: anay, baha (Ondoy) and sunog. Lastly, the back and forth with the record labels took two months. I asked permission to publish album covers, sleeve jackets, and pictures. It was challenging work to chronicle everything. My advice to aspiring writers who want to document cultural history, particularly in music, is to see the big picture and see what the gaps are. What needs to be written about? Or what needs to be written about more. Doing so indirectly contributes to nation-building by investigating who we are through our culture and music history.”

The Halloween Party organized by Claire Agbayani for 70s Bistro in 1995. With the author is Put3Ska vocalist Myra Ruaro (now Skarlet), Vikki Cayago; and Ronnie Vivar of GASI

Agbayani shares several personal memories, experiences, and anecdotes in the book, especially with Eraserheads, as she dedicated an entire chapter to them. I asked why dedicate a whole chapter for E-heads when in other chapters, five bands have to share a chapter in her book.  Agbayani answers, “Why not? The Eraserheads made the most significant impact on the Philippine music scene during the ‘90s.  In the preface, I explained that in 1994, record labels went on a signing frenzy in their bid to duplicate the success of Eraserheads. In early 1994, 7 songs of Eheads (from the ultraelectromagneticpop! album) were being requested and played on radio stations.

The author unboxes the Eraserheads' 'The Head Set' memorabilia from Sony BMG executives with a family friend in January 2012

I wanted to pick Agbayani’s brain all day. Still, my editor would kill me if I hoarded all the space of Manila Bulletin for my column, so my closing question was, 'What was the most rewarding part of writing Tugtugan Pamorninga?' She answered: “The moral support the literary and academic community gave me? I did not expect such love, warmth, and support! Ricky Lee, the National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts, wrote my foreword. How amazing is that! The support of established literary writers, professors, historians, and photographers is humbling! Some professors asked me for copies of the manuscript before the book was published because they wanted to use the contents for their classes! What was unexpected was that those who vetted the grant the book received from UP Likhaan Institute of Creative Writing (funded by the UP Diliman Chancellor's Office) recognized the importance of such a book. Also totally expected was the warm reception and patronage the book received from the reading public. The book goes out of stock in Lazada or Shopee. Those who rate it give it a 5. Talaga lang ha?!” Aside from Lazada or Shopee, Tugtugan Pamorningan is also available in the UP Press online store.   

Regal Entertainment's Mother Lily Monteverde passes away, 85

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

Aug 4, 2024 04:51 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Mother Lily's demise came six days after her husband, Remy Monteverde, passed away on July 29. He was 86.

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Lily Monteverde (Dondon Sermino)

Film producer Lily Yu Monteverde, popularly known as Mother Lily, passed away early Sunday morning, Aug. 4. She was 85.

Mother Lily's demise came six days after her husband, Remy Monteverde, passed away on July 29. He was 86.

She is survived by her children Winston, Meme, Roselle, Dondon and Goldwin; in-laws Stephen and Grace and granddaughter-in-law Winni; grandchildren Keith, Theo, Bridget, Matthew, Redwin, Jewel and Kristen; and great-grandchild Mikayla. Mother Lily's death was confirmed by her family in an official statement released on Sunday, Aug. 4. The. cause of her death was not revealed.

The wake and memorial service for her will be held at 38 Valencia Events Place in Quezon City beignning Aug. 5, 3:30 p.m. to 12 midnight; and Aug. 6-Aug. 9, 10 a..m. to 12 midnight.

The daily novena will be held at 5:30 p.m. and mass at 7 p.m.

Regal Entertainment's Mother Lily, a beloved showbiz figure, pioneered a significant era in the entertainment industry, producing blockbuster movies in the 70s and 80s.

Mother Lily, CEO and President of Regal Entertainment, was reponsible for the popularity of many stars known as Regal Babies including Maricel Soriano, Snooky Serna, Dina Bonnevie, Gabby Concepcion, William Martinez, Albert Martinez, 

In 2022, during an interview for pep.ph, Mother Lily said she wished to live up to 100 years old.

Then in 2000, she received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Cinemanila International Film Festival. 

Mother Lily also received the Fernando Poe Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award in the 37th Luna Awards in 2019.

In 2021, Regal Entertainment ventured into television when it partnered with GMA Network.

“Regal Entertainment has always kept a cordial and happy relationship with GMA-7. Not only as a business partner but as a friend. Through so many years of our film production, GMA has always been an ally, the supporter of our endeavors. 

"That is why it is only fitting that in these more crucial and critical times, we remain together. We are strong together in providing the kind of entertainment that our audiences need. 

"Thank you for giving us this opportunity, to affirm our friendship and alliance. Thank you for believing in Regal Entertainment in reaching out to our Filipino audience to share the wealth of our years of film production. 

"Thank you for giving the next generation the bigger chance to see Regal and GMA go together through this extraordinary period and
on to their post pandemic times. Maraming salamat po.”