Titas de Bacolod

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Behind the Scenes - February 24, 2011 : Judge Lorna’s 70th birthday

Behind The Scenes, Events
Behind the Scenes - February 24, 2011 : Judge Lorna’s 70th birthday
Behind the Scenes with Ivy Visitacion


It was truly an evening to remember.  Many of the country's top judges descended on Bacolod this week to attend a board meeting of the Philippine Judge's Association. But they were also here to celebrate the 70th birthday and mark the retirement of Judge Lorna Demonteverde, one of the region's most distinguished and respected members of the judiciary. Retirement is compulsory for judges at 70, so Lorna's husband Judge Franklin and the family decided to mark this very special occasion by throwing a grand bash for Lorna.

And what a party. More than 300 friends, associates and well-wishers crowded into the beautiful setting of the posh new club house at the Costa Brava subdivision on Lacson Street. Guests enjoyed a sumptuous dinner prepared by the Bascon Hotel and danced to the music of the Checkmates.

There were many tributes from fellow judges and associates who praised her fairness and her dedication. One of defining moments of her career as a judge was when she settled a family feud of a prominent family in Bacolod that had been going on for twenty-five years, spanning three generations. After it was settled, the family’s 95-year-old matriarch came to Judge Lorna, crying and thanking her for settling the case. Judge Lorna said that after all these years she would miss the cut and thrust of judicial life, but she's looking forward to going into private practice. She plans to become a consultant.

Happy birthday to the Hon. Ma. Lorna Demonteverde: Outgoing Executive Judge MTCC, Bacolod City, Outgoing Presiding Judge MTCC Branch 2, Bacolod City.


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Follow me on Twitter @TitasdeBacolod


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To see Imelda at the food court without the pomp and splendor normally attached to her wherever she goes brought up a myriad of emotions. I felt a bit sad seeing this. It reminded me of my Mama's last days. But I quickly snapped out of that sadness because I was reminded of the incident two years ago ......Read More

It has been 29 years since they were chased from the palace. Amid a stream of discoveries regarding the unexplained wealth, more than 70,000 imprisoned, poverty level at 42% and thousands tortured and “salvaged”. ......Read More







Negros Island was in a woeful state at the eve of the snap elections in 1986.  Negros as a word was synonymous to "Crisis" in those days.  For the longest time, the sugar industry, romanticized by the well-heeled landowners of Negros and Iloilo, was the prima donna of Philippine ......Read More



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Friday, January 1, 2010

Friday, January 01, 2010

A family reunion turned feud

#disgusting, #heytita
A family reunion turned feud



Dear Tita,

Every year, our mother always wants a big family reunion here with all the members present. I had been working abroad for a number of years and couldn't come home for the holidays. This year, I arrived from abroad loaded with gifts for everyone. My husband and two kids came along to enjoy with the rest of the family. However, when I distributed the gifts, I noticed some relatives were disappointed as they were expecting more. I could hear grumbling from some members which I tried to ignore.

Last Christmas eve, our relatives came to the house asking for money. I could only give what I could afford, which wasn't much after all the expenses for our trip and the presents I brought. Instead of appreciating what I gave, they complained that I was selfish and kuripot. When my mother heard the talks, she reacted and got mad at our relatives. This caused our relatives to quarrel with my mother and my sisters. I never expected this to happen.

My husband Peter (a Canadian), was shocked at what happened. He didn't expect it in our family. Now he wants us to leave immediately after the New Year. He says we shouldn't come back again if this happens among our relatives. I am also ashamed of what my relatives have shown. In their greed, they have given the impression that money is more important than family ties. Why can't they understand that even if we came from abroad, we are not that rich, especially with the recession? I hope our relatives realize how wrong they are.

Thank you for giving my letter your kind attention.

SAD BALIKBAYAN

 

Dear Sad Balikbayan

It is unfortunate that what should have been a happy occasion, turned out into a family feud. Your relatives have shown bad manners in insisting on more extravagant gifts and money from you and your husband. Peter must have been appalled at their bad behavior. I hope he doesn't think all Filipinos are like that. When things have settled down, your mother must try to have a dialog with your relatives and set them straight, especially about the worldwide recession.

I'm sure you have a lot of friends here who are more than willing to show you and your family a good time during the rest of your stay. Hopefully, they can make Peter see the true hospitality and warm nature of Negrenses.

TITA


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Follow me on Twitter @TitasdeBacolod


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To see Imelda at the food court without the pomp and splendor normally attached to her wherever she goes brought up a myriad of emotions. I felt a bit sad seeing this. It reminded me of my Mama's last days. But I quickly snapped out of that sadness because I was reminded of the incident two years ago ......Read More

It has been 29 years since they were chased from the palace. Amid a stream of discoveries regarding the unexplained wealth, more than 70,000 imprisoned, poverty level at 42% and thousands tortured and “salvaged”. ......Read More







Negros Island was in a woeful state at the eve of the snap elections in 1986.  Negros as a word was synonymous to "Crisis" in those days.  For the longest time, the sugar industry, romanticized by the well-heeled landowners of Negros and Iloilo, was the prima donna of Philippine ......Read More



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Thursday, January 8, 2009

Thursday, January 08, 2009

Behind the Scenes - January 8, 2009: Mama Mia!

Behind The Scenes,
Behind the Scenes - January 8, 2009: Mama Mia!
Behind the Scenes with Ivy Visitacion

It was a fabulous evening when the Negros Occidental Garden Club held its annual Christmas Party cum induction of officers recently at Sugarland Hotel. The theme of the celebration was the hit movie, “Mama Mia”, which everyone loved and enjoyed. Weeks before the event, participants in the song and dance numbers rehearsed like crazy under dance guru, Ofelia Gonzaga, who probably lost a lot of weight pounding the dancers until they perfected their numbers. Members had to scrounge in their bauls for old dresses from the 60s, 70s and 80s.

Finally, it was time. On the night itself, members and guests, dressed to the nines, complete with their blingblings, quickly filled the venue which was soon SRO. Guest of honor was Julie Benedicto of the Bacolod Orchid Society, who delivered a most inspiring message. After the formal induction and speech from the NOGC president, Nena Nolido, it was fun time! The most anticipated musical numbers began with songs from the movie followed by rousing dance numbers: “Dancing Queen”, “I’m So Excited” and “Waterloo”. All the participants gave their all and the audience lapped it up with thundering applause.

The program segued to the singing of Christmas songs while the darkened room was lighted by flickering candles giving the moment a truly Christmassy atmosphere.  Soon the performers took the audience to dance in the middle of the dance floor. By this time everyone was in a dancing mood. Even Tita Julie Benedicto was seen enjoying herself on the dance floor. Wotta night! Kudos to the organizers for a stupendous celebration, indeed!*



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Follow me on Twitter @TitasdeBacolod


Related Posts:


To see Imelda at the food court without the pomp and splendor normally attached to her wherever she goes brought up a myriad of emotions. I felt a bit sad seeing this. It reminded me of my Mama's last days. But I quickly snapped out of that sadness because I was reminded of the incident two years ago ......Read More

It has been 29 years since they were chased from the palace. Amid a stream of discoveries regarding the unexplained wealth, more than 70,000 imprisoned, poverty level at 42% and thousands tortured and “salvaged”. ......Read More







Negros Island was in a woeful state at the eve of the snap elections in 1986.  Negros as a word was synonymous to "Crisis" in those days.  For the longest time, the sugar industry, romanticized by the well-heeled landowners of Negros and Iloilo, was the prima donna of Philippine ......Read More



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Thursday, January 3, 2008

Thursday, January 03, 2008

Behind the Scenes - January 3, 2008 : The singing ambassadors visit Bacolod

Behind the Scenes - January 3, 2008 : The singing ambassadors visit Bacolod
Behind the Scenes with Ivy Visitacion


Something very special happened in Negros recently. The Faith Academy Choir, composed of teenaged students from abroad, visited some of the cities of our province and enthralled the audiences with their brilliant performance of inspirational, Gospel and Christmas songs, bringing a message of faith and hope during the Christmas season.
 

Like a breath of fresh air, the good-looking, wholesome and very friendly teen-agers, most of them children of missionaries from different states in the USA , swept us off our feet with their singing talents and energy. They reminded us of the stars in the popular Disney movie, “High School Musical”, which went over big with the younger crowd. They performed all over – in schools, plazas, etc., and they wowed the crowds wherever they appeared. Each time they performed, some of them would talk about how they found their relationship with the Lord, prompting someone in the audience to whisper, “Why, they are really the singing ambassadors of the Lord”!

They also performed for the Cebu Institute of Medicine Alumni Association of Negros Occidental, during their Christmas party at L' Fisher Hotel. The president of the association, Dr. Ver Lacson, was so impressed by their performance that he gave a dinner for them at his residence that weekend.

Arriving at the doctor's posh home, the teenagers were entranced with the ten towering Christmas trees all over his house. They also enjoyed the sumptuous dinner specially prepared for them and the rest of their group. After the delicious feast, the youngsters held a jamming session and really let their hair down amidst laughter and shrieks of good-natured ribbing. Even their musical director, Dan Eyestone, was forced to perform together with Pastor Gary Visitacion, head of the delegation. Amidst the revelry, I got a call on my cellphone from Mayor Bing Leonardia, inquiring if the group was still at the party.

When I said yes, he accepted my invitation for them to come over and in a few minutes Mayor Bing arrived with wife Elsa. The choir immediately held an impromptu mini-concert for the couple, which they appreciated very much. The very cute “baby” of the group, blond and blue-eyed Aly Phillips, made such an endearing impression on Mayor Bing and Elsa. It was an evening to remember indeed and the group told us how much they enjoyed their visit here.

Bravo, FAITH ACADEMY CHOIR!*



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Follow me on Twitter @TitasdeBacolod


Related Posts:


To see Imelda at the food court without the pomp and splendor normally attached to her wherever she goes brought up a myriad of emotions. I felt a bit sad seeing this. It reminded me of my Mama's last days. But I quickly snapped out of that sadness because I was reminded of the incident two years ago ......Read More

It has been 29 years since they were chased from the palace. Amid a stream of discoveries regarding the unexplained wealth, more than 70,000 imprisoned, poverty level at 42% and thousands tortured and “salvaged”. ......Read More







Negros Island was in a woeful state at the eve of the snap elections in 1986.  Negros as a word was synonymous to "Crisis" in those days.  For the longest time, the sugar industry, romanticized by the well-heeled landowners of Negros and Iloilo, was the prima donna of Philippine ......Read More



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Thursday, March 22, 2007

Thursday, March 22, 2007

Behind The Scenes - March 22, 2007 : 'For he's a jolly good fellow…'

Events, People
Behind The Scenes - March 22, 2007 : 'For he's a jolly good fellow…'
Behind the Scenes with Ivy Visitacion

The grand ballroom of the Sugarland Hotel was the venue for the Thanksgiving Celebration of the Culmination of Sarabia Opticals Centennial Year and the 80th birthday of its chairman, Dr. Antonio Sarabia. The Mass was officiated by Monsignor Gigi Gaston whose homily was deeply appreciated by everyone. A huge crowd of high profile guests, relatives and old friends (some coming all the way from the USA), were there to greet their beloved Tony on his natal day. It's no surprise why so many love and admire Tony - he's a genuine people person. He loves life and eagerly grasps it with both hands outstretched.

On hand to help him welcome their guests was his lovely wife Nelly, who looked so elegant and stunning in her attire. (Don't you just love her Mona Lisa smile?). Nelly invited everyone to partake of the dinner. The buffet table was a mouth-watering feast of colors and flavors. Everything looked absolutely yummy! We thoroughly enjoyed the excellent red wine which flowed all evening.

There was a video presentation of the Launching of the Sarabia Opticals Centennial Celebration which was held at the Ayala Museum on Feb. 22, 2006. This was hosted by popular TV personality Korina Sanchez. A lot of VIPs graced the occasion. After the video presentation, a program was held featuring song and dance numbers performed by the members of Tony's family. A well-applauded number was their interpretation of the song, "The More I See You" (the Sarabia family theme song).

The children of Tony and Nelly gave a touching tribute to their parents. With Pancho Uytiepo on the piano, they sang their parents' favorite love songs of yesteryears. When their theme song, "A Love Affair to Remember", was sang, Nelly joined her husband up front and the two lovebirds held hands to the delight of the crowd. Tony had the time of his life singing their favorite songs. (The guy can sing!). A special number was presented by the famous Sunshine Boys who sang, You Are My Sunshine (But, of course!). It was heartwarming to see these aging silver-haired gentlemen sing with such gusto and enthusiasm. Personally, I think people like them will never grow old because their hearts will remain forever young. The dancing crowd had a ball till the wee hours. Wotta party! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TONY!*


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Follow me on Twitter @TitasdeBacolod


Related Posts:


To see Imelda at the food court without the pomp and splendor normally attached to her wherever she goes brought up a myriad of emotions. I felt a bit sad seeing this. It reminded me of my Mama's last days. But I quickly snapped out of that sadness because I was reminded of the incident two years ago ......Read More

It has been 29 years since they were chased from the palace. Amid a stream of discoveries regarding the unexplained wealth, more than 70,000 imprisoned, poverty level at 42% and thousands tortured and “salvaged”. ......Read More







Negros Island was in a woeful state at the eve of the snap elections in 1986.  Negros as a word was synonymous to "Crisis" in those days.  For the longest time, the sugar industry, romanticized by the well-heeled landowners of Negros and Iloilo, was the prima donna of Philippine ......Read More



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Thursday, March 1, 2007

Thursday, March 01, 2007

Behind The Scenes - March 1, 2007 : 'A memorable 95th birthday'

Behind The Scenes, Events
Behind The Scenes - March 1, 2007 : 'A memorable 95th birthday'
Behind the Scenes with Ivy Visitacion

There was a heavy downpour earlier in the afternoon. But not even the heavy rains could dampen the preparations for the grand celebration of Gloria Esteban's 95th birth anniversary.

In the evening the skies smiled down on her and there was a huge sigh of relief as her Tara-like colonial mansion was spruced up for the very special occasion. It was a gathering of Negros Occidental's sociedad who came "dressed-to-the-nines," to join the festivities for this much-loved lady.

The party began after a Special Mass offered for the celebrator who looked stunning and so much younger than her age as she welcomed her well-wishers, together with her daughters Miling Rodriguez and Baby Javelosa. Guests gathered in the garden under the stars, where tables were set for the al fresco dinner. Everyone enjoyed the culinary masterpieces set on the buffet tables around the garden. Sparkling red wine flowed all evening which quickly put the crowd in a party mood.

Vivacious Lucy Lizares Yunque emceed the program which was opened with a song and dance number by the Bacolod Cultural Foundation headed by Luz Dato-Lacson.

Other dance numbers were performed by the Daughters of Mary Immaculate, Alijis and Bacolod chapters. Gloria's great granddaughter Alexa Gamboa played the violin while Miling's four apos delighted the crowd with a Village People number. Aly Araneta and Tony Gentes serenaded Gloria with her favorite songs. Special dance numbers were performed by Lanibelle Javelosa, Linda Montero, Inday Tolentino and Joy Yulo together with their handsome partners. The entire family then gathered around their beloved matriarch to sing Happy Birthday.

Soon, the dance floor was crowded with dance aficionados swinging to their hearts' delight. What a fabulous way to celebrate Gloria's 95th birthday!* 


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Follow me on Twitter @TitasdeBacolod


Related Posts:


To see Imelda at the food court without the pomp and splendor normally attached to her wherever she goes brought up a myriad of emotions. I felt a bit sad seeing this. It reminded me of my Mama's last days. But I quickly snapped out of that sadness because I was reminded of the incident two years ago ......Read More

It has been 29 years since they were chased from the palace. Amid a stream of discoveries regarding the unexplained wealth, more than 70,000 imprisoned, poverty level at 42% and thousands tortured and “salvaged”. ......Read More







Negros Island was in a woeful state at the eve of the snap elections in 1986.  Negros as a word was synonymous to "Crisis" in those days.  For the longest time, the sugar industry, romanticized by the well-heeled landowners of Negros and Iloilo, was the prima donna of Philippine ......Read More



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Thursday, February 22, 2007

Thursday, February 22, 2007

Behind The Scenes - February 22, 2007 : 'A fun-filled night in Bacolod'

Behind The Scenes,
Behind The Scenes - February 22, 2007 : 'A fun-filled night in Bacolod'
Behind the Scenes with Ivy Visitacion

One of the great pleasures of living in Bacolod is the vibrant nightlife where you enjoy seeing old and new friends, all with a zest for living and having fun. This was even more apparent last Valentines Day when most of the restaurants were filled with people: entire families with kids, couples, lovers and groups of friends.

Knowing that traffic would be horrendous at night, our group led by Dr Ver Lacson and his kids Summer and Ken, together with Manang Alice and Marilyn Lopez set off early, hoping to find a convenient parking space. Alas, we soon found out that lots of folks had the same idea in mind and it was a mad scramble looking for a place to park.

Valentine's dinner was at the ritzy, glitzy L'Fisher Hotel which was overflowing with the beautiful people of Bacolod. By the time we arrived, the hotel lobby was already filled with diners who came for the excellent buffet and the evening's entertainment - the Kulay Pikata singing group. Everyone enjoyed the gastronomical delights while being serenaded with romantic love songs by the balladeers.

After dinner, the night was still young and so our next destination was the Valentines Celebration of the Bacolod Sampaguita Lion's Club at Sipango, where we were invited by former club president Perla Leonardia. The elegant ladies of the club were at the dance floor dancing the night away and having the time of their lives. It was a joy to see them tripping the light fantastic with such grace and style. Before I could catch my breath, my good friend Lydia Tison insisted that I dance with her DI. (Boy, was that fun!).

We were told that these kindhearted ladies have found a way to use their favorite pastime - dancing, to generate funds for their charitable projects. What a beautiful way to celebrate the day of love! Kudos to the members, especially the club presidents (past and present), for a most successful affair!*


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Follow me on Twitter @TitasdeBacolod


Related Posts:


To see Imelda at the food court without the pomp and splendor normally attached to her wherever she goes brought up a myriad of emotions. I felt a bit sad seeing this. It reminded me of my Mama's last days. But I quickly snapped out of that sadness because I was reminded of the incident two years ago ......Read More

It has been 29 years since they were chased from the palace. Amid a stream of discoveries regarding the unexplained wealth, more than 70,000 imprisoned, poverty level at 42% and thousands tortured and “salvaged”. ......Read More







Negros Island was in a woeful state at the eve of the snap elections in 1986.  Negros as a word was synonymous to "Crisis" in those days.  For the longest time, the sugar industry, romanticized by the well-heeled landowners of Negros and Iloilo, was the prima donna of Philippine ......Read More



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Thursday, February 15, 2007

Thursday, February 15, 2007

Behind The Scenes - February 15, 2007 : 'My best love story of all time'

Behind The Scenes,
Behind The Scenes - February 15, 2007 : 'My best love story of all time'
Behind the Scenes with Ivy Visitacion

So how was your own Valentine's Day celebration yesterday? Was it beautiful and magical as you wanted it to be? Ahhh, the Day of Love! This is the time of year when lovers get silly and romantic. Some say it with flowers, others with candy; while the gallant ones give jewelry and precious gifts.

The beauty of love has been immortalized in love stories the world over. Being a hopeless romantic, I have my own collection of love stories and poems which I have treasured through the years. But my favorite happens to be a poem written by King Edward VIII, the British monarch who gave up his throne for the woman he loved. Their story has been told and retold in countless books, magazines and the movies. The king was so hopelessly in love with the American divorcee Wallis Simpson, that he even wrote a poem for her:

"My friend, with thee to live alone Methinks tis better than to own,

A crown, a scepter and a throne"

* * * *

It's been a round of parties given by Rich Loveland, of TelePerformance for their guests recently. There was a Fellowship Night for the I.T Schools Network of Negros Occidental held at MO2 Annex.

What a swinging affair it was! At the height of the fun night, Raymund Sabay of UNO-R, challenged Rich Loveland to a game of 8 Ball Billiards. (Don't ask who won - US or Phil!). Seen enjoying the evening were Che Londres of Star of Asia, who came with hubby Paul. Also there was Cesar Tianonoy of X-El Magazine who exchanged pleasantries with Councilor Jocele Batapa-Sigue and hubby Arnel.

Another shindig hosted by the company was for the Bacolod City Hall Press Corp. Again, Rich Loveland made sure everyone was having a ball. On hand to help him welcome company officers Paul Felton, Sharon Cabral and Bazil Abrire. The guests headed by Elsie Jolingan, City PIO, enjoyed the delicious food and had so much fun. Wotta night!*


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Follow me on Twitter @TitasdeBacolod


Related Posts:


To see Imelda at the food court without the pomp and splendor normally attached to her wherever she goes brought up a myriad of emotions. I felt a bit sad seeing this. It reminded me of my Mama's last days. But I quickly snapped out of that sadness because I was reminded of the incident two years ago ......Read More

It has been 29 years since they were chased from the palace. Amid a stream of discoveries regarding the unexplained wealth, more than 70,000 imprisoned, poverty level at 42% and thousands tortured and “salvaged”. ......Read More







Negros Island was in a woeful state at the eve of the snap elections in 1986.  Negros as a word was synonymous to "Crisis" in those days.  For the longest time, the sugar industry, romanticized by the well-heeled landowners of Negros and Iloilo, was the prima donna of Philippine ......Read More



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Thursday, February 8, 2007

Thursday, February 08, 2007

Behind The Scenes - February 8, 2007 : 'The lady has flair!'

Behind The Scenes, Events
Behind The Scenes - February 8, 2007 : 'The lady has flair!'
Behind the Scenes with Ivy Visitacion

It was a night of fashionable guests, excellent food and ballroom dancing! Dr. Evangeline "Gigi" Johnson, president and CEO of the Our Lady of Mercy Specialty Hospital, celebrated her birthday recently with a mega celebration. L'Fisher Hotel's La Proa was filled with her family and VIP guests from the local government sector, business, medical profession, pharmaceutical companies, civic and society circles, who came to greet this admirable lady on her natal day. Gigi looked so radiant in her jonquil-yellow gown as she welcomed her well-wishers. Everyone enjoyed the delectable dishes specially prepared for the occasion.

Guests were treated to an audio-visual presentation showing her achievements (she also happens to be the president and CEO of various medical hospitals in Iloilo and Angeles, Pampanga). Tributes poured in for this much-admired woman of substance who has one of the rarest combinations of public and personal style (beauty, brains, breeding and integrity).

People from all sectors spoke of their admiration for her genuine concern for the less fortunate. There were dance numbers galore presented by her employees who gave their all for their beloved boss.

Gigi was deeply touched by the show of love and affection shown to her that night. She spoke of the secret of her success - hard work and surrounding yourself with the best people. She also paid tribute to her "mentor," the late Dr. Patricio Tan, who she said, helped her turn Our Lady of Mercy Hospital into "one of the best alternative hospitals for the less fortunate".

The celebrator danced with her loved ones to the delight of the crowd. It was the cue for the rest of the guests to start their ballroom dancing until late into the night. HAPPY BIRTHDAY DR. GIGI!*


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Follow me on Twitter @TitasdeBacolod


Related Posts:


To see Imelda at the food court without the pomp and splendor normally attached to her wherever she goes brought up a myriad of emotions. I felt a bit sad seeing this. It reminded me of my Mama's last days. But I quickly snapped out of that sadness because I was reminded of the incident two years ago ......Read More

It has been 29 years since they were chased from the palace. Amid a stream of discoveries regarding the unexplained wealth, more than 70,000 imprisoned, poverty level at 42% and thousands tortured and “salvaged”. ......Read More







Negros Island was in a woeful state at the eve of the snap elections in 1986.  Negros as a word was synonymous to "Crisis" in those days.  For the longest time, the sugar industry, romanticized by the well-heeled landowners of Negros and Iloilo, was the prima donna of Philippine ......Read More



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