Stars help Kathryn Bernardo celebrate her 28th birthday in El Nido

BY ROBERT REQUINTINA

  

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AT A GLANCE

• Kathryn celebratesher birthday at Isla Amara Resort in El Nido, based on photos and videos splashed on X (formerly known as Twitter) Tuesday night.

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Kathryn Bernardo (Images by @Lance8637)

Stars came down in El Nido, Palawan, on March 26 to help actress Kathryn Bernardo celebrate her 28th birthday.

Kathryn marked her birthday at Isla Amara Resort in El Nido, based on photos and videos splashed on X (formerly known as Twitter) Tuesday night.

A heartwarming video clip captured the moment when the staff of the chic resort surprised Kathryn with a simple birthday cake and a bouquet of her favorite flowers.

 

Alden Richards, Dominic Roque, Jericho Rosales, Maymay Entrata, fashion designer Mark Bumgarner, Kakai Bautista, and Rambo Nunez husband of Maja Salvador, were among the celebrities who graced Kathryn's birthday party in El Nido. Darren Espanto, AC Bonifacio, and Tim Yap also greeted Kathryn.

The box-office star celebrated her birthday in style as she partied with friends and guests on a yacht.

At midnight on March 26, Kathryn's former sweetheart, Daniel Padilla, greeted her on Instagram with a happy birthday in Japanese.

Fans of Kathryn were thrilled to see her celebrating her special day, with many commenting that they had never seen her so happy again.

Netizens said Kathryn deserves to be happy.

In November 2023, Kathryn and Daniel shocked fans when they jointly announced their split on social media after 11 years of being in a relationship.

Philippines to face more cyclones in 2024 with La Niña’s return

Gaea Katreena Cabico - Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is likely to experience more tropical cyclones in 2024 than last year due to the potential return of La Niña, the state weather bureau PAGASA said on Tuesday.

PAGASA projected 13 to 16 cyclones this year, marking an increase from 11 storms in 2023, an El Niño year. However, the figures are still below the average of 19 to 20 storms the country typically sees annually. 

Ana Liza Solis, PAGASA’s climate monitoring chief, said there are usually more cyclones during La Niña because of warmer ocean temperatures. There is a 62% chance that La Niña will develop during June to August.

"Since the warming of the ocean temperature is closer to us, it is possible that tropical cyclones may develop closer to our seas,” Solis said partly in Filipino. 

“We will experience the possible effects of La Niña during the last quarter of the year,” she added.

La Niña brings stronger trade winds, pushing warm surface water in the western Pacific, where the Philippines is located, and drawing up cool water in the eastern Pacific. Warm water creates more rain. 

Science Secretary Renato Solidum noted that since warm water is closer to the Philippines during La Niña, cyclones could reach land faster. 

“It means the lead time is shorter. For cyclones closer to land, there is less time to prepare,” he said in Filipino. 

Early this March, PAGASA issued a La Niña Watch. Historically, pre-developing La Niña events are characterized by below-normal rainfall. The weather bureau said this suggests a possible slight delay in the onset of the rainy season “likely with the confirmed effects of the ongoing El Niño.”

El Niño, the climate pattern associated with extreme heat and drought, is gradually weakening, but its effects will persist in the coming months. 

Solidum said drought will affect 48 provinces, while dry spells will impact 24 provinces by April. By May, 54 provinces will experience drought and 10 will face dry spells.

The number of drought-stricken provinces will decrease over the next months: 25 by June, 23 by July, and 10 by August. 

The 34 Very Best German Sayings…EVER! (19): kein Blatt vor den Mund nehmen

 The 34 Very Best German Sayings…EVER!

By: AuthorMarcel Iseli

19. kein Blatt vor den Mund nehmen

Putting the facts straight and not to mince matters is exactly what the German saying “kein Blatt vor den Mund nehmen” stands for. 

This saying originated in the theatre world. In the past, comedies in the theatre were quite ruthless – even high-ranking statesmen and politicians were often attacked and criticized by the actors. 

So that they could not be punished for what they said, actors had to hide their faces behind something. At the beginning of the theatre, however, masks did not yet exist, so they simply took a piece of paper instead of using masks.

But not everyone chose to hide between this pseudo-mask. Some courageous actors still chose to speak openly without hiding behind a piece of paper, so they literally did “kein Blatt vor den Mund nehmen.”

And that’s exactly where this fascinating German saying comes from.   

 

Example: Mit meiner Frau legst du dich besser nicht an! Die nimmt nämlich in Sachen Politik absolut kein Blatt vor den Mund!  

Translation: You better not mess with my wife! She doesn’t mince matters when it comes to politics.  

HAPPY EASTER!

 HAPPY EASTER!

Each year, Easter falls on a different day – and this year it's coming a little early. In 2024, Easter falls on Sunday, March 31. But why is the holiday coming earlier than usual, and how is it determined? According to experts, it has to do with a full moon.

Easter Monday is a Christian holiday celebrated the day after Easter Sunday.

In many countries in Europe and South America, this day is known as "Little Easter". The Catholic Church calls it "Monday of the Angel".

Formerly, it was celebrated as Easter Week in many places but this was reduced to a one-day celebration in the 19th century.

Emperor Constantine (272-337 AD) imposed eight consecutive public holidays in Rome, a period called the “Octave of Easter”. Monday, like other days, was a public holiday. Masses were held every day to celebrate the Easter feast. During this period, pilgrims could also take the opportunity to travel to Rome. This Easter octave, however, came to an end under Napoleon Bonaparte.

From 1801 and the signing of the Concordat with the Pope, the then-First Consul undertook to reorganize the practices of the Catholic Church of France. He also removed public holidays, which numbered 50 at the time. Napoleon chose to keep Assumption, Ascension, Christmas and All Saints. On the other hand, it abolished the public holiday week following Easter, keeping only one day exempt from work: Monday. 

To die is to live! We are always shocked when in the middle of our surroundings, somebody passes away. Our usual questions are: "Why die so young? Why he, why she? A natural reaction, indeed.

When Jesus finally gave up His spirit on the cross after three hours of bitter agony, the Pharisees said: "Finally, that impostor has gone. He deserved to die that kind of death!"

Let's remember: After the waving of the tree branches by the Jewish crowd and Hosannas of Palm Sunday, the arrest of Jesus betrayed by Judas in the Garden of Olives, the imprisonment and humiliation of Holy Thursday night, the carrying of the cross, crucifixion, and death at Good Friday, - Jesus Christ rose from the tomb on Easter Sunday - glorious and will never and die again!

For Jesus, dying was not the end of everything. It was the beginning of a new life. Symbolically we see the Easter Resurrection of our Lord depicted in various ways, which always point to life after death. Especially in parts of the world where deep winter lets all plants and trees "sleep" for a couple of months, people enjoy the spirit of the new shoots that come out of a big trunk of a tree.

Eggs were usually symbols used in springtime long before Christianity came into existence. The eggs symbolize life, which its causing it to grow. Since Easter usually occurs at spring time (March or April), which is already summer in the Philippines, this egg-symbol was still in use among the pagans of early times when Christian were celebrating Easter.

A blessed Easter to all of you, my dear readers. Walk this day with great confidence in your heart, mind and soul.

And, enjoy your egg hunting with your loved ones...!

GMA Network features special programming schedule for Holy Week 2024

BY MANILA BULLETIN ENTERTAINMENT

Mar 25, 2024 10:21 AM

  

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AT A GLANCE

• On Good Friday, “Jesus” airs at 6:00 am, while the internationally acclaimed religious program “Power to Unite” starts at 7:30 am.

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In observance of the Holy Week season, GMA Network presents its special Holy Week programming schedule this Maundy Thursday (March 28), Good Friday (March 29), and Black Saturday (March 30).

Maundy Thursday opens with the biographical religious drama “Magdalena” at 6:00 am.

Following it is a lineup of animated movies: “Rise of the Guardians” at 7:30 am, “Stuart Little 3” at 9:00 am, and “Lassie” at 10:30 am.

The comedy-drama film “Marley & Me” then airs at 12nn, followed by animated and adventure movies “The Adventures of Tintin” at 2:00pm; and “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey” at 3:00 pm

The award-winning documentary program “The Atom Araullo Specials” comes in at 5:30 pm.

Afterward, tune in to GMA’s flagship newscast “24 Oras” at 6:30 pm, the Hollywood classic retelling of the Biblical story of Moses in “The Ten Commandments” at 7:00 pm, and “Reporter’s Notebook” at 11:00 pm. 

On Good Friday, “Jesus” airs at 6:00 am, while the internationally acclaimed religious program “Power to Unite” starts at 7:30 am.

Kids can look forward to “Adventures of Tom Thumb and Thumbelina” at 8:00 am; “Anastasia: Once Upon A Time” at 9:00 am; and “Jumanji” at 10:30 am.

Recall Jesus' seven last words from the Sto. Domingo Church via “Siete Palabras” at 12:00 nn, to be followed by “Women of the Bible” at 2:00 pm.

Catch “The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug” at 3:00 pm and CBN Asia's Blocktime at 5:30 pm.

GMA’s flagship newscast ‘24 Oras’ again airs at 6:30 pm, followed by drama film “Tanging Yaman” at 7:00 pm and the epic biblical drama film “Son of God” at 9:00 pm.

Cap off the night with GMA Public Affairs’ “I-Witness” at 10:30 pm.

On March 30, Black Saturday begins with “The Story of Jesus for Children” at 6:00 am and “Dragonlance” at 7:30 am.

Teens’ favorite animated features are made available starting at 9:00 am with “Wonderpark” followed by “Scooby Doo” at 10:30 am, “Superman Returns” at 12:00 nn, and “Smurfs The Lost Village” at 2:00 pm.

Then catch another installment of “The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies” at 3:00 pm, followed by “Farm to Table” at 5:30 pm, “Seven Sundays” at 7:00 pm, “Forrest Gump” at 9:00 pm, and GMA Public Affairs’ “Brigada” at 11:00 pm.

Cherish our Lord this Lenten Season through these Holy Week specials from March 28 - 30 only on GMA-7.

Cloud clusters to bring rain showers in parts of Visayas, Mindanao

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) has spotted cloud clusters near the eastern parts of Visayas and Mindanao, which are expected to bring scattered rain showers in the area. | 🎥 : DOST-Pagasa

LIST: Concerts, events this April 2024

Clockwise: Abigail Adriano in "Miss Saigon," Boys Like Girls, the cast of "One More Chance the Musical," and the cast and crew of "Buruguduystunstugudunstuy: Ang Parokya Ni Edgar Musical"

Daniel Boud for GMG Productions, Ralph Lubiano, Philstar.com / Jan Milo Severo, Kristofer Purnell

Kristofer Purnell - Philstar.com

MANILA, Philippines — April brings on the summer heat and excitement, with no shortage of enjoyable shows and concerts to attend throughout the country.

Musicals dominate the month as one famous international production returns to the Philippines after over two decades, while local theater companies stage original productions sure to capture the hearts of many.

Here are several of the concerts, events and productions happening in April (minor spoiler, Saturday the 13th is a PACKED date):

'Miss Saigon' (whole of April except Mondays)

Boublil and Schönberg's iconic musical set during the Vietnam War where a bargirl has a relationship with an American marine continues its run at the Theater in Solaire nearly the entire month.

'Monet & Friends Alive' (whole of April except Mondays and the 30th)

The multi-sensory experience of French painter Claude Monet and other artists of the Impressionist era ends its run in the BGC Arts Center this April.

'Red-Ol-Mania' (April 6)

Red Ollero headlines a comedy set in the Samsung Performing Arts Theater in Makati, featuring rising stars in the local stand-up comedy scene.

'Kaia: Kaiaversity' (April 6)

P-pop girl group Kaia celebrates its second anniversary with a fan concert at the Music Museum in San Juan.

'BaRaptasan' Grand Finals (April 6)

The Cultural Center of the Philippines Kanto Kultura BaRaptasan Grand Finals is going to be held in Rizal Park Open-Air Auditorium in Manila to mark the 100th anniversary of Balagtasan, in honor of Filipino poet Francisco Balagtas. The show promises a modern twist on word jousting.

'Ikon: Get Back' (April 7)

Korean boy band Ikon returns to the Philippines with its "Limited Tour" by staging a "Get Back" concert in the Araneta Coliseum.

James Taylor (April 8)

James Taylor is performing in the Philippines after previously canceling his 2017 concert. He will be joined by his All-Star Band in the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. 

'Umi: Talking to the Wind' (April 11)

American singer-songwriter Umi returns to the Philippines to promote her latest extended play "Talking to the Wind" in Samsung Hall in Taguig.

'Randy Santiago: Eyecon' (April 12)

"Mr. Private Eyes" Randy Santiago will hold a one-night Concert Party in the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) Plenary Hall with fellow concert veterans Pops Fernandez, Juan Miguel Salvador, Gino Padilla, Nina and Rachel Alejandro as well as a some of Original Pinoy Music (OPM) newcomers.

'One More Chance the Musical' (April 12 to 14, 19 to 21, 26 to 28)

The Philippine Educational Theater Association adapts the 2007 film "One More Chance" into a musical using the songs of local band Ben&Ben.

Kim Seon Ho (April 13)

Korean actor Kim Seon-ho is coming back to the Philippines for a fan meet in Mall of Asia Arena, his fourth time visiting the country in just over a year.

'Neocolours: Tuloy Pa Rin Ang Awit ng OPM' (April 13)

The OPM group behind hits like "Tuloy Pa Rin," "Maybe" and "Say You'll Never Go" joins forces with Gloc-9, Noel Cabangon, Ice Sueguerra and Jinky Vidal in Music Museum.

'Baekhyun: Lonsdaleite' (April 13)

EXO member Baekhyun brings his solo Asia tour "Lonsdaleite" — his first in-person solo concert in over a decade since debuting — to the Araneta Coliseum.

'Whee In' (April 13)

Mamamoo member Whee In brings her first-ever world tour to the SM North EDSA Skydome the same day she releases her mini-album "Redd."

'ZCON' (April 13)

"Asia's Vocal Supreme" Katrina Velarde leads Filipino Gen Z singers Khimo Gumatay, JM Yosures, Reiven Umali and Sam Mangubat in a concert in Makati's Samsung Performing Arts Theater. 

Lola Amour (April 13 and 27)

Local band Lola Amour is holding two album launches, one in Makati's Circuit Event Grounds and another in Cebu's Draft Punk, following the release of its eponymous debut album.

'Janella Salvador: Reimagined' (April 19)

Actress-singer Janella Salvador marks the delayed 10th anniversary of her being in the show business with a concert at the New Frontier Theater that also features her mother Jenine Desiderio, Martin Nievera, Darren Espanto, her "Darna" co-star Jane de Leon, her former love team partner Mario Mortel, and drag queens Arizona Brandy, Brigiding, Lady Morgana and M1ss Jade So.

'Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra: Fete Francaise' (April 19)

The conclusion of the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra's 39th season under Maestro Grzegorz Nowak in Samsung Performing Arts Theater.

'Jeremy Passion and Gabe Bondoc: Parallels' (April 20)

R&B singers Jeremy Passion and Gabe Bondoc return to the Philippines by bringing their "Paralles" tour to the Music Museum after going around Australia.

JR Richards (April 20)

Dishwalla's original vocalist JR Richards is having a concert in SM North EDSA Skydome.

Boys Like Girls (April 20)

Rock band Boys Like Girls returns to the Philippines just two years after performing in Manila and Cebu. This time, the band is hitting the Araneta Coliseum — the only arena-level show of its 2024 Southeast Asia tour — with special guests We The Kings.

We The Kings (April 20)

Speaking of We The Kings, the rock band will have its own concert in SMX Convention Center Davao, a decade after the band's last Philippine solo concert.

'Awit ng Panahon: Noon at Ngayon' (April 21)

An era-encompassing concert in New Frontier Theater headlined by Hajji Alejandro, Rachel Alejandro, Gino Padilla and Kris Lawrence.

Incubus (April 25)

Incubus has included Manila as one of its stops in its 2024 concert tour, having last visited in February 2018 at the same venue the band will be performing at this year, the Araneta Coliseum.

'Debbie Gibson: Electric Youth' (April 26)

Pop singer-songwriter Debbie Gibson heads to the New Frontier Theater to mark the 35th anniversary of her album "Electric Youth."

'Buruguduystunstugudunstuy: Ang Parokya Ni Edgar Musical' (April 26 to 28)

"Buruguduystunstugudunstuy," a musical based on the songs by popular Filipino rock band Parokya ni Edgar begins its run in Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City. 

FreenBecky (April 27)

Thai "GAP: The Series" stars Freen Sarocha and Rebecca "Becky" Armstrong return to Manila for a fan meeting in New Frontier Theater in what will be the pair's fifth visit to the Philippines.

Kuh Ledesma (April 27)

Singer-actress Kuh Ledesma will stage a concert in Winford Resort & Casino with special guests Nathan Randal and David Young.

Marcos urges Filipinos on Holy Week: Spread kindness, selflessness

BY RAYMUND ANTONIO

Mar 24, 2024 07:19 AM

  

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President Marcos on Palm Sunday, March 24, enjoined Filipinos to “illuminate the path for others through acts kindness and selflessness” as the nation marks the start of the observance of the Holy Week.
 

Palm Fronds (Photo courtesy of Catholic Online)

 

Marcos said that the Holy Week is a time for the Catholic faithful to reflect about one’s self and spirituality with the impact of Jesus Christ in Christianity.
 

“In this solemn occasion, let us not only seek to unravel the mysteries of our faith, but also to illuminate the path for others through acts of kindness and selflessness,” he said in his Holy Week message.
 

“I pray that we may humbly accept our authentic selves as imperfect beings, for it is by becoming truly human that we can experience the divine. Let us always remember to seek the Lord in our desires and to desire Him in our seeking,” Marcos added.
 

The Chief Executive also said that Holy Week is a commemoration of the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and the people must remember the essence of this occasion.

"This hallowed time of contemplative silence behooves us to ponder on the mysteries that elude our grasp, seek revelation in the face of the inexplicable, and acknowledge the interplay of joy and sorrow in life so that we may understand the path laid before us by Almighty God,” he said.

 

“May our inward reflections manifest in our outward actions as we strive to give hope in a world that is threatened by darkness. Let us be the light that shines through the shadows, the love that triumphs over despair, and the hope that radiates upon all humankind,” he added.
 

Marcos expressed hope that the Catholic faithful will remember not what they have reached, but for the light that have kindled in the hearts of everyone.
 

Catholic Christians observe Holy Week, or Semana Santa, from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday. They usher the Holy Week by attending Palm Sunday masses and other church activities.
 

The 34 Very Best German Sayings…EVER! (18): Den Braten riechen

 

The 34 Very Best German Sayings…EVER!

By: AuthorMarcel Iseli

18. den Braten riechen

In English, if you smell a rat, you have started recognizing that something is not as it appears, usually suspecting trickery or deception of some kind.  

While ‘to smell a rat’ does not sound all that pleasant, in German, you don’t smell rats but roast when trickery or deception is in the air. Now that’s pretty tasty, given the circumstances…!  

 

Example:

Hast du eigentlich das Gefühl ich bin dumm? Natürlich habe ich schon lange bemerkt, dass du mir fremd gehst! Ich habe den Braten schon lange gerochen! Du machst mir nichts vor!  

 

Translation: Do you think I’m stupid? Of course, I’ve realized long ago that you’re cheating on me! I smelled the roast a long time ago! You don’t fool me!  

 

Winged wonders: Birding soars in PH

BY BILLIE DUMALIANG

Mar 22, 2024 10:28 AM

  

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In the heart of the Philippines, a country celebrated for its staggering biodiversity, an activity traditionally reserved for the most ardent nature enthusiasts is taking flight in the mainstream: birding. 

Long perceived as a niche pastime for dedicated scientists and nature lovers, this pursuit is now capturing the imagination of a broader audience, thanks to the efforts of the Wild Bird Club of the Philippines (WBCP), talented photographers, and the pervasive influence of social media. Given the Philippines' status as a global hotspot for avian diversity, the burgeoning interest in bird watching is both a natural and exhilarating development. 

Birding, or bird watching, offers a unique blend of leisure and adventure, inviting individuals to immerse themselves in nature's tranquility while engaging in a treasure hunt for the myriad bird species that grace our skies and landscapes. It is the practice of observing birds in their natural habitat as a recreational activity or a citizen science component.

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The Guiabero parrot, known as 'nature's engineer,' creates a cavity inside a termite nest. (Photos from Pancho Parian)

Birding involves identifying birds through visual observation, often with the help of binoculars or telescopes, and by listening to bird sounds. This activity can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels, offering a peaceful yet exciting way to explore the outdoors and gain a deeper appreciation for biodiversity.

Avian diversity takes flight

Recently, I had the privilege of co-organizing the "Birding and Breakfast for Storytellers" event alongside the WBCP. This gathering brought together media members, artists, scientists, and young enthusiasts to highlight the avian diversity within the Masungi Georeserve despite the threat of a recently proposed wind farm project. Highlighting what we stand to lose, the event underscored the urgent need for conservation. 

During our excursion, we were greeted by the majestic sights of the Rufous-bellied Eagle and Serpent Eagle. Venturing deeper into the Georeserve, we encountered the Philippine Cuckoo Dove, a species notorious for its elusive nature. Mike Lu, president of the WBCP, remarked that he has only seen it thrice during his 20 years as a birder, adding a layer of excitement to our experience.  The presence of the White Eared Brown Dove, feeding merely a meter away from our group, was a testament to the sanctuary's success in creating a haven for these creatures. 

Nikki Realubit, a dedicated scientist from UP Los Baños, shared insights into the behavior of birds within Masungi, highlighting the sanctuary's role in bird conservation. Multiple discoveries of the endemic Guiabero parrot nesting sites further demonstrated the results of conservation efforts. Such observations underscore the delicate balance we must maintain to ensure the survival of these species and their habitats.

Filipinos and feathers 

The story of birding in the Philippines is about discovering, marveling, and conserving urgently. With 535 species of birds, 259 of which are endemic or unique to the Philippines, the country offers a unique window into the world of avian life. However, we also rank 4th globally for threatened species due to deforestation, habitat degradation, and wildlife exploitation, as stated by the BirdLife International Website. 

Birding is inclusive and can be enjoyed by Filipinos of all ages and backgrounds.

The WBCP plays a pivotal role in this narrative, not just by organizing birding trips but by engaging communities and local governments in advocacy. Its mission is simple yet profound: to reveal the beauty and diversity of our avian friends in hopes of fostering a collective will to protect them. 

The enthusiasm shown by Filipinos for birding activities illustrates a growing awareness and appreciation for our natural heritage. Thankfully, the club’s events typically get fully booked within 24 hours of posting, as noted by Lu. He also shared that participants from Tarlac and Pangasinan attended their recent birding activity in Parañaque. This shows that birding is a growing movement that transcends age, profession, and background, uniting us in our shared admiration for nature's marvels. 

The elusive Philippine Cuckoo Dove spreads its wings to forage elsewhere.

In embracing birding, Filipinos are not just adopting a new hobby; they are participating in a vital act of conservation. It's an invitation to stand on the wings of love to safeguard our environmental treasures for generations to come. As we look at the sky, let us also remember the responsibility that lies in our hands — to protect, preserve, and cherish the winged wonders that share our world.