August orchid of the Month: Waling-waling, the queen of Philippine flowers

BY JAMES TABABA

Aug 10, 2023 11:31 AM

  

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Wild and natural form of the waling-waling orchid flower. (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

The waling-waling orchid, scientifically known as Vanda sanderiana, is a stunning and highly prized orchid species native to the Philippines. Also referred to as the "Queen of Philippine Flowers," the waling-waling orchid is renowned for its exceptional beauty and unique characteristics.

The waling-waling orchid typically blooms during the months of June to August, although there may be some variations in blooming periods depending on specific growing conditions and environmental factors. This period is considered the peak flowering season for the waling-waling orchid.

Waling-waling orchid flowers with yellow, green, and white is the alba form which came about with intense breeding efforts in Hawaii in the 1950s. (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

The waling-waling orchid exhibits various forms, each with its unique charm. The froebeliana variety showcases a dark coloration while the albata exhibit lighter hues with purplish markings. Additionally, there is the alba, which was artificially induced through intensive inbreeding in Hawaii, resulting in green and yellow forms. The diversity of waling-waling varieties contributes to its immense popularity among orchid enthusiasts. 

This orchid species has a monopodial growth habit, meaning it grows vertically, with a single stem that produces leaves and flowers along its length. The leaves are long, narrow, and leathery, providing an elegant backdrop to the remarkable blooms.

Due to its beauty, the waling-waling orchid has become a foundation for breeding programs. Its bloodline has been utilized to develop other vanda orchids with desirable traits such as vigorous growth and large, round flowers. While the waling-waling's own flower characteristics may not be strongly inherited by its progenies, its robust vegetative properties are often passed down.

Papilionanda Antonio Puyat orchid is an example of the heavy influence of waling waling in orchid breeding. (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

The waling-waling orchid is indigenous to the foothills of Mount Apo in the province of Davao, located on the island of Mindanao. While the waling-waling orchid's natural range is predominantly in Davao, it can also be found in other regions of Mindanao such as Maguindanao, South Cotabato, and possibly Basilan. 

Cultivation and care 

As a tropical flower, the waling-waling orchid flourishes in warm environments and does not thrive in cool climates. It has been extensively propagated, leading to a significant global population. However, its rarity is still recognized due to the challenges of finding it in its natural habitat, mainly due to intensive collection and poaching. To cultivate waling-waling successfully, understanding its specific requirements is crucial.

Waling-waling orchids prefer bright, indirect sunlight, mimicking their natural habitat under the shade of trees. Care should be taken to prevent direct exposure to sunlight during the summer months, which can lead to leaf burning. Adequate watering is vital, considering its tropical origins. Daily watering is recommended, especially in regions with high humidity. The root tips should appear fleshy, green, or purple, indicating sufficient hydration. Watering should be done before 4 PM to allow excess water to evaporate, reducing the risk of diseases and root rot.

Waling-waling orchids with superior forms and colors. (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

Providing the waling-waling orchid with proper nutrition is essential for its healthy growth. Regular fertilizer application during watering, once a week, helps supply essential nutrients. Additionally, ensuring adequate air circulation is crucial. Spacing individual waling-waling plants apart prevents the spread of diseases, and the leaves should not touch each other, allowing free airflow.

Waling-waling orchids naturally grow on tree trunks, making it beneficial to provide a potting medium for them to cling onto, such as wood or bark. While they can survive without a medium, their survival is more reliant on careful watering and regular fertilizer application, as they have no alternative moisture source. Utilizing potting media can encourage keiki production and reduce maintenance efforts. Keiki is an offshoot plant that develops on the stem or base of the parent orchid. However, for those with limited resources and space, hanging the orchid using wire or vanda baskets with charcoal or wood can also be suitable as long as the growth remains upright.

Wild and natural form of the waling-waling orchid flower. (Manila Bulletin Agriculture)

One intriguing characteristic of the waling-waling orchid is its propensity to produce keikis, which are offshoots that sap nutrients from the mother plant. To prevent the decline of the mother plant, it is recommended to separate the keikis individually before they start affecting the parent's vitality. The waling-waling orchid is widely propagated commercially and readily available in the market, making it accessible to enthusiasts and collectors.

The waling-waling orchid, with its noble beauty and intriguing characteristics, holds a special place in the hearts of Filipinos. There have been movements and discussions advocating for the Waling-waling to be recognized as the national flower of the Philippines. Despite challenges in establishing it as the national flower, its cultural significance remains undeniable. With proper care and understanding of its tropical requirements, enthusiasts can cultivate and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the waling-waling orchid. Its varied forms, captivating blooms, and rich history continue to inspire awe and admiration, making it a treasured gem of the Philippines. 

Photo courtesy of Manila Bulletin Agriculture

Alex Eala to compete in W25 Roehampton this week

BY KRISTEL SATUMBAGA-VILLAR

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Alex Eala continues her quest for a fourth singles pro title when she competes in the W25 Roehampton in Great Britain this week.

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Alex Eala continues her quest for a fourth singles pro title when she competes in the W25 Roehampton in Great Britain this week.

Alex Eala is looking for her fourth singles pro title. (File Photo/Alex Eala Facebook)

 

The 18-year-old is seeded sixth in the $25,000 International Tennis Federation (ITF) tournament and is scheduled to see action both in the singles and doubles events. 

She is set to open her singles campaign against Australian qualifier Gabriella Da Silva Fick, who survived France’s Julie Belgraver, 7-5, 7-6 (3), and Japan’s Naho Sato, 6-2, 4-6, 10-3, to make it to the main draw.

This would be the first time that Eala is meeting Fick in the ITF pro circuit.

Though Fick has yet to win an ITF pro singles crown, the 22-year-old British has won five doubles titles including two this year with different partners in W40 Proto and W25 Monzon events.

Meanwhile, Eala is partnering with Australian Destanee Aiava in the doubles where they are slated to battle Japanese duo Naho Sato and Eri Shimizu in the opening round.

Adamson clips reigning UAAP champion La Salle with stunning come-from-behind win

 BY MANILA BULLETIN SPORTS

Aug 10, 2023 09:28 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Adamson clipped reigning UAAP champion La Salle with a stunning 22-25, 25-17, 17-25, 27-25, 16-14 come-from-behind win in Game 1 of the Shakey’s Super League (SSL) National Invitationals finale on Wednesday, Aug. 9, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

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Adamson clipped reigning UAAP champion La Salle with a stunning 22-25, 25-17, 17-25, 27-25, 16-14 come-from-behind win in Game 1 of the Shakey’s Super League (SSL) National Invitationals finale on Wednesday, Aug. 9, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

Adamson Lady Falcons. (SSL)

The Lady Falcons gave the Lady Spikers a dose of their own medicine, erasing a huge 11-20 deficit in the fourth set before pulling through by a whisker in the clincher to move on the brink of capturing the first SSL national title.

Skipper Lucille Almonte kept Adamson afloat all throughout with 24 points on three aces and a block while super rookie Red Bascon delivered when it mattered the most, none bigger than her back-to-back hits to finish with seven points and clinch it for the Lady Falcons. 

Ayesha Juegos had 13 points while Sharya Nicole Ancheta and Lorene Toring added 10 apiece in the well-balanced attack of Adamson under new mentor JP Yude.

“Lagi ko kasing sinasabi sa kanila, may tiwala ako sa kanila. Kaya I always encourage them, especially nung 4th set, down kami, sabi ko ‘di pa tapos ‘yung laban. ‘Di pa naman 25. Sabi ko isa-isahin natin. Tyagain natin,” said Yude, a former Adamson player, in his first tournament since taking over from Jerry Yee in June.

“Siguro, na-absorb nila yun. Siguro nakita din nila sa akin, for me, ‘di pa talo. Ayusin nyo yung mga mukha nyo, yung body language nyo. Hindi pa tapos ‘yung laban. Siguro nakita nila yung eagerness na i-push sila.”

La Salle, riding on a five-set win against the University of Santo Tomas from a 1-2 deficit including multiple match points saved, looked headed into an easy four-set win against Adamson by building what seemed an insurmountable 20-11 lead off a Thea Gagate hit. 

But Adamson simply refused to go down and quit.

With Almonte setting the tone, the Lady Falcons launched a killer 11-1 rally capped by Ancheta’s quick attack in the middle to snatch the driver seat at 22-21.

Both teams traded blows from there on, with each one reaching match point, before Bascon unloaded two straight hits for a 27-25 win to extend the match to the fifth set.

As they figured in a back-and-forth decider anew, Bascon would not shy away from the big stage by hammering through another back-to-back attack for Adamson’s great escape act.

Shevana Laput rifled in a tournament-high of 30 points, Thea Gagate and Alleiah Malaluan added 14 points while Baby Jyne Soreño had 11 points but La Salle still absorbed its first defeat in the 12-team SSL presented by Eurotel as the official hotel and Victory Liner as office transport provider, and in cooperation with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

Return to Shangri-la

 Makati Shangri-La rises again

BY POCH EULALIA

  

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AT A GLANCE

• ‘Makati Shangri-La, Manila is an iconic landmark that has long been woven into the rich history of Makati City. For the past three decades, the hotel has provided a tranquil sanctuary within the city’s bustling business district.’

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WELCOME BACK! Makati Shangri-La has reopened its iconic halls to the public

It was at the height of the pandemic when the news of Makati Shangri-la ceasing its operations broke out. What a mighty blow it was, to see such a prestigious facility that had been providing top-notch service since 1993 close its doors. Imagine then, the warmth it brings within, to hear the words “welcome back” from hotel staff upon arriving at a pre-opening lunch just days before it formally opened its doors to the public on August 8.

As soon as you stepped into the lobby, you would feel like revisiting an old friend, feeling an immediate warmth rush over you. Without the expected hustle and bustle that comes with a five-star hotel, walking along its then-empty halls felt peaceful. One can only imagine how lively it will be once people start walking through its doors once more.

TASTE OF THE SEAS Tuna tartare consisting of tuna, romesco sauce,
burnt eggplant, and pickled cauliflower

RAISING THE STEAKS Westholme Wagyu Ribeye served with creamy
mashed potatoes, onion jam, and a watercress salad

FAR OUT, RAGOUT Pappardelle pasta dish with ragout Angus beef,
beef tongue, and pecorino cheese

For lunch, a special treat was prepared at Shangri-la’s signature Sage Grill. What started it off was a delight of tuna tartare, soft and delicate and buttery, followed by a generous serving of pappardelle pasta tossed with a ragout Angus beef sauce and topped with pecorino cheese. The main course was a juicy Westholme Wagyu ribeye steak paired with creamy mashed potatoes, a sweet onion jam, and a watercress salad. Finishing it all off, a plate of mint pannacotta plus raspberry sauce and various berries. It was a tremendous lunch that provided a brilliant taste of what was to come as Makati Shangri-la prepared for the relaunch of its dining establishments as well. 

Mouthwatering thoughts enter the mind when thinking about Shang Palace and its revamped menu. It will consist of eight new signature dishes designed to showcase the very best of Cantonese cuisine. Other dining establishments such as Circles Event Café and Sage Bar are also expected to return, offering guests a wide array of options that will cater to their cravings.

DINE WITH ELEGANCE Shang Palace specializes in Cantonese delights that will surely bring a gastronomic high

Present at the lunch were Makati Shangri-la hotel manager Udo Wittich and vice president of operations in the Philippines and general manager John Rice.
Both were lively fellows who spoke highly of the new services and features Makati Shangri-la had been working on during its hiatus. One example is the first-of-its-kind Horizon Club Business Room. It’s designed to provide business travelers with an enhanced in-room workshop that provides the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and functionality. Standout features include the Omnidesk, an adjustable standing table paired with an ergonomic chair, and fuss-free modern electronics featuring dual-screen 4K monitors, speakerphones, mobile stands, and fast- charging cable adaptors. It’s enough to make remote work feel like a breeze.

John Rice, vice president of operations (Philippines) and general manager, and Udo Wittich, Makati Shangri-la hotel manager

Another thing Makati Shangri-la has been working on is its recharged commitment to sustainability and community impact. Included in its plans for sustainability is a shift to using wooden key cards, reducing the use of single-use plastics, forgoing single-use toiletries, and starting a garden-to-table approach with produce. Plans of a garden at Makati Shangri-la’s patio aim to cultivate herbs and vegetables for use in certain food and beverage offerings. A partnership has also been penned with the University of Makati to provide internships and potential full-time employment opportunities for students enrolled in the university’s Hospitality Management program.

LUXURIOUS COMFORT A relaxing stay at the Horizon Club Deluxe Room is perfect for the traveler who
demands added personalized attention and services

“Makati Shangri-La, Manila is an iconic landmark that has long been woven into the rich history of Makati City. For the past three decades, the hotel has provided a tranquil sanctuary within the city’s bustling business district,” said Udo. “The reopening symbolizes a fresh beginning for Makati Shangri-La, Manila. It presents us a unique opportunity to provide guests with refreshed experiences and colorful joys of life that span our accommodations, dining destinations, and even in the ways we work with our community.” 

Luxury is only one reservation away! Call (+632) 8813 8888 or email reservations.makati@shangri-la.com. Email dining.makati@shangri-la.com for dining reservations.

Magnitude 5.2 quake rocks DavOr town

RALPH LAWRENCE G. LLEMIT, SunStar Davao

A MAGNITUDE 5.2 earthquake struck Governor Generoso in Davao Oriental on Wednesday morning, August 9, 2023.

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), the earthquake jolted the town at 8:57 a.m.

The tectonic quake had a depth of 39 kilometers.

The quake was felt at Intensity 4 in Malita, and Santa Maria in Davao Occidental; and Governor Generoso, and San Isidro in Davao Oriental.

Intensity 3 was felt in Compostela in Davao de Oro; Digos City, and Hagonoy in Davao del Sur; Don Marcelino, and Jose Abad Santos in Davao Occidental; Glan, and Malungon in Sarangani; and Tupi, South Cotabato.

It was felt at Intensity 2 in Maragusan, and Mawab in Davao de Oro; Tagum City, Davao del Norte; Kiblawan, and Santa Cruz in Davao del Sur; Davao City; Mati City, and Tarragona in Davao Oriental; Arakan, and Kidapawan City in Cotabato; Alabel, and Malapatan in Sarangani; Tampakan, South Cotabato; and Lutayan, Sultan Kudarat.

Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental; Magsaysay, Davao del Sur; Koronadal City, and Polomolok in South Cotabato; and General Santos City, meanwhile, felt the earthquake at Intensity 1.

Instrumental intensities:

Intensity 3 - Nabunturan, Davao de Oro; Don Marcelino, Davao Occidental; Pikit, Cotabato; and Malungon, Sarangani

Intensity 2 - Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental; Matanao, Davao del Sur; Davao City; Kidapawan City, Cotabato; Kiamba, Sarangani; Koronadal City, and Tampakan in South Cotabato; and General Santos City

Intensity 1 - Magsaysay, Davao del Sur; Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental; Alamada, and Magpet in Cotabato; Malapatan, Sarangani; Polomolok, South Cotabato; President Quirino, Sultan Kudarat; and Bislig City, Surigao del Sur

The reported intensity was based on reports of people who felt the earthquake, while instrumental intensity is measured using an intensity meter that measures ground acceleration. (RGL)

K-pop group Girls’ Generation’s Sunny leaves SM Entertainment after 16 years

BY JONATHAN HICAP

  

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Sunny, a member of K-pop group Girls’ Generation, has left her agency, SM Entertainment, after 16 years. 

SM Entertainment confirmed Sunny’s departure from the company.  

"The exclusive contract between Sunny and the company has ended. We would like to express our gratitude to Sunny, who has been with the company for a long time and showed wonderful activities, and ask for your support for the new path Sunny will walk in the future,” the agency said. 

Sunny (left) and Girls' Generation (Instagram)

Sunny is the niece of Lee Soo-man, the founder of SM Entertainment. Lee Soo-man and SM Entertainment had a conflict earlier this year. Lee sold his stake in SM Entertainment to HYBE Corp. 

In an Instagram post, Sunny wrote, “I am writing this because I wanted to say thank you for the 16th anniversary of Girls' Generation's debut.”  

“Looking back, there are so many people I'm thankful for over the past 16 years. The precious members who are like different versions of myself, our loving family, staff members who were by our side, and fans who gave us strength just by their existence,” she said. 

Sunny expressed gratitude to SM Entertainment for her debut in Girls’ Generation. 

“Today, I would like to express my gratitude and greetings to SM Entertainment for helping 19-year-old Lee Soon-kyu debut as Sunny of Girls' Generation,” she said. 

She added, “I'd like to thank all the managers who worked so hard during the 16 years of promotions, thank you to all the staff who helped us give positive energy to many people through various stages and contents with good music and good performance.”

“I can't be happier every day because I debuted with Girls' Generation with the members and met Sones,” she said. 

According to her, “Now I muster up my courage to see myself in a new environment from a different perspective. It is thanks to the interest and affection of the fans who have been unchanging for a long time and the people who are grateful.” 

“No matter what kind of days come, we will continue to move forward with a Sunny-like image of vitality. I will become a Sunny who shares good news in the future,” she said. 

Girls’ Generation’s Seohyun, Sooyoung and Tiffany left SM Entertainment in 2017. 

Sunny debuted in Girls’ Generation in August 2007. 

Filipino youth: You have a purpose, don’t let anyone step on your dream

Senator Alan Peter S. Cayetano on Tuesday encouraged Filipino college graduates to embrace their “unique selling point” as they join the workforce, saying God made them “for a special purpose.”

“In navigating this world, remember you’re unique… Everything about you, hinandmade ng Panginoon ‘yan. May ipapagawa sa’yo,” Cayetano told hundreds of college graduates of the Southville International School and Colleges in his speech during their commencement exercises on August 8, 2023.

The commencement exercise was also attended by Former Senator Francis Pangilinan and SISC’s Chairman of the Board Dr. Peter P. Laurel.

 The senator, whose leadership is based on Christian faith and values, urged the graduates to listen to what their “heart and mind" are saying and not to be swayed by negative opinions.

“Don’t let anyone step on your dreams and tell you na y’ung special purpose mo wala doon,” he told them. “We are fractions in one whole. Iba-iba ang talent natin. Just like an orchestra, iba-iba ang talent natin.”

Cayetano also said education is important in fulfilling their unique purpose because it is where they get trained, acquire new skills, and hone their talents.

 He urged them to get their parents’ and religious leaders’ support for their passion, even though they may sometimes find themselves disagreeing with them. He said their elders only desire to “preserve” them and protect them from the harsh realities of the world.

He challenged the graduates to continue learning and to “personally discover” how “seeking God’s Kingdom and righteousness” leads to the fulfillment of their personal goals in life. 

Cayetano also expressed hope in the next generation, saying they hold the future of the country in their hands. “We, the senators, are excited to see what the future holds for you,” he said. ###

More nations express concern over China's 'dangerous' actions in West Philippine Sea

By Bernadette E. Tamayo

August 8, 2023 1000

FRANCE, Germany, and South Korea have joined five other nations in expressing deep concern over "dangerous" actions by the China Coast Guard (CCG) that raised tensions in the South China Sea (SCS).

The United States, United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, and Canada on Monday slammed the water bombing of Philippine vessels by the CCG last August 5 while on a resupply mission in Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea. The European Mission in Manila also echoed their concern.

The Embassy of South Korea in Manila, in a statement on Tuesday, raised concern over the recent use of water cannons against the Philippines Coast Guard vessels in the SCS.

The Embassy has reaffirmed its support for peace, stability, and rules-based order in the SCS, as an "important international sea lane of communications."

It also supports the "freedom of navigation and overflight based on the principles of international law, including Unclos (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea)."

The German Embassy in Manila is concerned by the "dangerous maneuvers and use of water cannons by Chinese Coast Guard vessels against a lawful Filipino resupply mission within the Philippine's own exclusive economic zone (EEZ)."

Germany, through its embassy here, urged all parties "to respect the rules-based international maritime order," particularly Unclos, "with the 2016 Arbitral Award at its center."

On July 12, 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled in favor of the Philippines and invalidated China's expansive "nine-dash line" policy in the SCS which encroached the Philippines' EEZ.

"In light of recent events, Germany stresses that disputes must be resolved peacefully not by force or coercion," the embassy said.

The Embassy of France, in a statement, expressed "deep concern about the dangerous maneuvers carried out by Chinese coast guard vessels in the South China Sea."

It reiterated its support for international law and Unclos, as it cited the "decision handed down by the Court of Arbitration in 2016 concerning the South China Sea."

GOSSIP GIRL: Karen Bordador’s mission for every prisoner in PH

BY GISELLE SANCHEZ

Aug 8, 2023 01:27 PM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• “I advocate now for new beginnings and betterment, as well as the redemption of persons deprived of liberty. Likewise, I also visit different prisons to give them hope as much as possible. I show my gratefulness to God that he has given me a second life by paying it forward to those that are still inside and needing inspiration. I recall many times when some individuals visit us behind bars, and I would be extremely energized and inspired, especially if they were also in prison before."

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 Karen Bordador

Now that the Philippines’ judicial courts have released the verdict that television host Karen Bordador is innocent, the sexy YouTuber has a new purpose in life after living with persons denied of liberty (PDL) for over five years.

“I advocate now for new beginnings and betterment, as well as the redemption of persons deprived of liberty. Likewise, I also visit different prisons to give them hope as much as possible. I show my gratefulness to God that he has given me a second life by paying it forward to those that are still inside and needing inspiration. I recall many times when some individuals visit us behind bars, and I would be extremely energized and inspired, especially if they were also in prison before. 

"And now that they’re doing so well in life, I manifested behind bars that I want to be that person who enters a depressed facility and brings people back to life. Now that I am that person I manifested five years ago,  I empower our PDLs by letting them know that they have a future waiting for them; that they should know their purpose and follow the lessons learned inside. 

"To do this, I do a lot of low-key visitations to jails as long as I have a budget and also donations. I try to do this constantly. Sometimes I get to vlog it and it’s for the reason that I want to send a message out to everyone that people in jail must be given the same tender, loving care as they would. 

"For any other human being who has made a mistake in life, we should not judge or condemn anyone in bars but rather give them a means and the way to reform and become better people. Through education, new skills, and a different perspective I do believe those that are incarcerated can come out as good citizens that can be role models in the outside world. 

"I do my best to convey this message on my Vlog, Karen Bordador, YouTube channel. I also do a lot of interviews for people that have lost their way. I vlog their struggles inside so people can be sympathetic to the crisis of others," said Karen.

It was the year 2016 when Karen's life paused like the ones we see in the movies and for five years she was in prison waiting for the courts of the Philippines to release the verdict that she was innocent. The sexy influencer tells us her story. 

“Before being in bars, my career was blooming. I was actually a well-known model who graced a lot of magazine centerfolds. I was also quite known as a radio DJ on monster radio RX93.1  and I just got out of a reality TV show on ABS-CBN so I was transitioning from radio waves to local TV likewise I was getting a lot of movie and TV offers. 

"Basically my life was great before I lost everything. My life stopped on August 13, 2016. I was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Supposedly, I was being asked to join to answer a couple of questions, but they included me in the case, because my name was known, and it seemed very sensational. 

"It was a judgment by the media. I was in bars for nearly five years, but to be specific four years and 10 months. The first month was extremely overwhelming. It was so noisy. The news brutalized my name which affected my family, their businesses, and of course their mental health. 

"It was very difficult for them as they were the ones defending me from the outside. While in bars, I was adjusting to the new life of sleeping on the floor and taking a bath in the bathroom that had no door and no hot water. I rely on food sent to me by my family instead of me buying my own food. 

"Losing my career and having a lot of people judge me was devastating.  My name trended for nearly three months with nothing but judgment. Eventually, I found my peace for people did not understand what I was going through. I did not expect to be put in bars where I have done nothing wrong, but being known can implicate you. 

"It was extremely overwhelming and as I look back, I’m honestly proud of myself for overcoming that part of my life. I’m so proud of my family for being able to move forward despite such a horrific experience.”

Karen and I graduated from the same high school. All of us share the same accent so I asked her how she survived inside the prison with that accent.

“Studying in an exclusive girls' school,  we have grown up with an accent, and of course, great English skills, so Tagalog was not my number one language. It was a bit challenging because people in bars were speaking in a different way, and I wanted to get along with everyone so I had to adjust with that. I opened myself to street talk and very interesting words that were only created in bars.

"All of which were very insightful to me. However, with our education, I was able to teach them English so I left with a cell that speaks better English than the other cells. I’m quite proud of that. 

"Luckily, I am a very versatile person. I have changeable standards, and I work with what I had inside bars from a queen size bed, I had to sleep on a yoga mat. We all sleep together on the floor so I would have women squishing me in the middle while sleeping.

"I had to start sharing food with random people because that’s how it is inside, I had to sit and sleep in one spot and I couldn’t really roam around because that’s not allowed. So instead I did activities in my one sport and read hundreds of books. 

 

"I started to learn how to sketch and color. I wrote in my diary every single day, and eventually, I learned how to dance Zumba with the girls inside. Since there was no quality food, I sadly had to eat instant noodles and everything instant. I am so grateful my mom sent me food from time to time from my home, but aside from that, we only had junk food and I didn’t have the means to earn so I relied on an allowance for my parents. 

"Waiting for my case to progress for five years,  I started to head the livelihood program, and I designed bags and wallets which were sold to fellow prisoners for them, and their families, which brought in compensation for me and for everyone else. Also, I was a leader inside, so I had to discipline the chaotic lawlessness that would happen from time to time.”

I asked Karen why it took a long five years before the Philippine judicial courts released the verdict that she was not guilty, “ The hearings lengthen, because a hearing would only happen once in two months, or maybe twice in a month, but they would be canceled because of unforeseen reasons that I felt were not all valid, but I couldn’t do anything. Then the pandemic happened so all the hearings stopped for a very long time. My judge passed away, and that prolonged more delays. CCTV showed my innocence, and even if it was shown from the very beginning of the case,  pre-judgment by media just didn’t allow it to be valid but eventually in the last few months,  the CCTV was finally given light and it was proven that I was innocent.”

I asked the Star Magic host if she believed in the saying that you are placed in darkness for you to see the light. “I often question God before why He put me in such a horrific place knowing that I was a peaceful, kind-hearted loving person. I have always enjoyed empowering my friends and the people around me, especially those that are listening to me on the radio, so why me? And after a long period of being inside, I just felt a purpose that made me realize maybe that is why God brought me to a place where nobody will ever speak out for them. There’s nothing glamorous in advocating the rehabilitation of PDL but it’s a calling I felt God needed me to do. And I do feel the light when I am in action. My time inside has also given me so much wisdom and learning.  I do not have the same shallow mindset as I did before. Now I value service to others, and I feel like empowering others is a duty and a calling. So yes, there’s always a light in the dark, and anyone in the dark must find it to unlock them to their new beginning.”

At present Karen is happy to share that she is back in the entertainment world. ABS CBN has given her a platform to share her story through PBB, Celebrities, Season 10; and also in Charo Santos’ Maalaala Mo Kaya (MMK). Karen has now been able to reestablish herself as a TV talk show host, and she also has a radio show. “Most of the projects I am doing now are sharing my learnings, my story, and also giving advice. I am also finally involving myself in our family business so I am juggling a corporate life and an entertainment life. For now, I am in my happiest state. Many establishments are opening their arms to me. I have been working with a lot of different brands as I have learned the world of being an influencer and content creator. I am extremely grateful to be working with so many of them. Hopefully, when I am more established, I can help the aftercare of the newly released persons deprived of liberty, so that they too can have a second chance in life so they will not go back to their old ways.” 

Watch out for Karen’s upcoming dating show and a risk disaster show that she will be hosting. It will be on RD Y Pinas (Ready Pinas). Do check her out on her Facebook, TikTok especially her YouTube channel Karen Bordadror.