PHILIPPINES' PRIDE Options

[PedroCarvalho]

(IMG:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/99/Flag_of_the_Philippines.svg/250px-Flag_of_the_Philippines.svg.png)

(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif) The year 2005 has seen many great achievements for the Philippines and the Filipino people. Winning the Overall Title for the 23rd SEA Games, Miss International 2005 (Precious Lara Quigaman), world boxing and billiards, world championship of the performing arts, and a lot more!!!

(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/biggthumpup.gif) Yes, the Philippines is a country blessed with many natural wonders and resources; and, the best among these God-given resources is its people.

(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/cool30.gif) Let me share a few of the many Filipinos who are bringing pride and honor to the Philippines in recent history (Part I)

1. SAM JACOBA " A Trailblazer in IT"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/samjacoba.jpg)
Sam Jacoba has recently received an honor that is reserved only for the finest employees of Microsoft Corporation – The COE Award is Microsoft’s highest award to its employees worldwide. Being one of only 220 recipients of the Circle of Excellence Award is indeed a big feat. In fact, he is the only Filipino employee of the multinational corporation and one of only 16 in the Asia-Pacific region to receive the COE Award.

2. GIOVANNIE ANNE CABANGIS-ESPIRITU "A Medical Student Inside E.R."
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/giovanniepico_bg.jpg)
Giovannie Anne Cabangis-Espiritu was born in Manila but she and her family migrated to the US when she was barely one year old. Now based in San Francisco, this Filipina got the role of Ludlow, a medical student in the new season of “ER.” For her, representing the Filipino-Americans in the mainstream media has been a long time goal. Her love for the arts was already evident even when she was just a child. She played different roles in various plays like “Peter Pan,” “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast,” and “Pinocchio.” As a teen-ager she was cast in several American commercials, did voice-overs and appeared in several movies like “Mail Order Bride,” “Broken Wings,” “Counting the Days,” and “Seasons Under the Bridge.” She has also appeared in “American Yearbook,” where she played the role of Amanda Hunter - the protagonist of the movie that focused on the dangers of high school bullying.

3. Dr. JOSETTE BIYO "Multi-Awarded Educator"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/Dr.%20Josette%20Biyo.jpg)
Because of her innovative teaching method in science research, Dr. Biyo bested 4,000 teachers from around the world to win the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair. Also, the first to receive an Award for Excellence in Louisville, Kentucky which was intended to give to honor teachers who promote inquiry and inspire students to engage in real research. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lincoln Laboratory in Boston named a minor planet “Planet Biyo” in her honor. This heavenly body was originally known as “Planet 13241”. Now, a celebrity in the education world, Dr. Biyo gives numerous talks and workshops on her methods of teaching both here and abroad. Despite the honors, she remains simple, warm and accommodating, insisting that she is still a teacher first.

4. VERONICA PEDROSA "CNN News Anchor/Correspondent"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/VeronicaPedrosa.jpg)
A graduate of Newham College Cambridge, Pedrosa worked for CNN International at the Global News Network’s headquarters in Atlanta as a news anchor. She later moved on to BBC World where she presents news bulletins and feature programs for Asia Today and The WeekReporters. In the year 2000, Veronica re-joined CNN International in Asia. Now, she is based at CNN’s regional headquarters in Hongkong. Pedrosa is the co-anchor of Andrew Stevens in the week-long evening show ASIA NOW. They report and update the day's leading news and business stories from across the region and around the globe.

5. MONIQUE LHUILLER "International Designer"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/monique-lhuillier_bg.jpg)
Do you know who designed the radiant gown that Britney Spears wore when she married her boyfriend Kevin Federline? She’s no other than Monique Lhuillier, a Cebuana who’s carving a name for herself in Hollywood. She is also the one who designed the wedding gown of Lea Salonga. She has been featured on various fashion magazines like People, US Weekly, In Style, Vogue, Vanity Fair to name a few. The line of celebrity patrons is quite long, Mariah Carey, Sarah Jessica Parker, Angelina Jolie, Janet Jackson, Paris Hilton and Tatum O’Neal to name a few. But her fame skyrocketed when she made the gown for Britney Spears’ wedding. The gown was featured on several TV shows and fashion magazines.

6. CHRISTINA DE CASTRO "Filipina singing superstar in Italy
Her life is like a fairy tale…Christina De Castro, also known as Kittie started as an OCW in Italy before becoming a singer. She was supposed to go to Japan in search for a greener pasture but her visa landed her to Italy. Kittie is humble and proud to say that she started as a domestic helper in Italy and even worked as a nanny. Because of her achievement, Italians now look up to Filipino domestic helpers to have many talents and skills that they can share to the world. Ms. De Castro has done two albums. One of these is entitled “Raggio di Sole at Sangre” under PEM Records in Pistoia, Italy. Her career started to boost when she sang her own version of “Volare” in the 2003 Tuscany Song Festival. From then on, offers for tv guestings and other musical shows are from left to right. Kittie was enrolled by her producer to study seven languages: Tagalog, Spanish, English, Italian, French, Arabic and mixed Arabic (Italian and Arabic). For her, being multilingual helps a lot in her singing career.

7. CHRISTIAN MENDOZA "Pinoy Idol in Denmark"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/christian_mendoza_bg.jpg)
Christian won American Idol’s counterpart in Denmark way before Camille Velasco and Jasmine Trias took the limelight. He wowed the Danish crowd when he belted out his own rendition of Roy Orbison’s “When a Man Loves a Woman,” Whitney Houston’s “The Greatest Love of All,” and sealed his victory with his mandatory piece “Mystery to Me.” As a result of the Filipino’s very impressive performance, he garnered 57 percent of the votes in the final tabulation. He became the first and only Filipino idol to join the ranks of successful foreign contestants from the prestigious “Idol” contest.

8. PATRICIA EVANGELISTA "2004 Best Public Speaker Winner in London"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/patriciaevangelista.jpg)
Tricia took Philosophy but shifted to Speech Communications in UP-Diliman when she realized her talent in communications. She became the Vice President of the UP Debating Society but not that long because she needs to focus on public speaking competitions. Her mentors are the brilliant writers Alfred Yuson, Jose Dalisay, Gemino Abad and Ed Maranan. She bested 60 contestants from 37 other countries and came home with the trophy as 2004’s Best Speaker in the International Public Speaking Competition in London. She really made Filipinos proud!

9. VIRGINIA CRUZ-SANTOS "The Incredible Animator"
Giving life to a character is one of the writer’s most difficult tasks. She must be able to come out with a believable semi three-dimensional character to make a story worth reading or watching – if it is a movie. But making animals talk, think and move like humans without making them look like the latter is even harder. And that is the task of the thirty-something petite Filipina lady! She gave life to several animated characters like: The Cowboy Girl, Bullseye the horse and a little of Bugs and Woody in “Toy Story 2,” Forth Rant, Sally and Mike in “Monsters Inc.,” and Dory and some scenes of Nigel in “Finding Nemo.” Her most recent film is “The Incredibles,” which became a top grosser in its first week in the Philippine Cinema. Among the characters that she made were: Helen Parr – dubbed by Holly Hunter, Dash, Violet and Edna Mode.

10. KIWI CAMARA "Hot Shot Lawyer"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/kiwi_camara.jpg)
Who would believe that a story similar to the now defunct TV series “Doogie Howser MD” happened in real life? The protagonist of what seemed to be a fictional story is Kiwi Camara. He is a 19-year-old magna cum laude graduate of Harvard Law School. While some teenagers as old as him are breaking the laws for a number of reasons, this Filipino is busy reading law books. After earning a college degree at age 16, the University of Pennsylvania, who has one of the top 10 law programs in the nation, accepted him. Yale, who was probably impressed with his 99th percentile rank, also invited him to apply. But Kiwi decided to study in Harvard. He received the Brudney Prize for his thesis on corporate law and became the youngest law graduate of Harvard at 19-years-old.


(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/love2.gif) (IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/love2.gif) (IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/love2.gif) You are a Filipino and the power to live your dreams is within your hands. Be the Philippines' pride, spread the goodness of every Filipino and shine your light for all people to see !

(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) DREAM BIGGER AND FLY HIGHER FILIPINO!!!

This post has been edited by PedroCarvalho: Dec 29 2005, 11:43 PM

[PedroCarvalho]

(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/biggthumpup.gif) Yes, the Philippines is a country blessed with many natural wonders and resources; and, the best among these God-given resources is its people.

(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/cool30.gif) Let me share a few of the many Filipinos who are bringing pride and honor to the Philippines in recent history (Part II)

11. IAN RENA "Multi-Awarded Graphic Artist"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/ian_rena_bg.jpg)
Ian Reña, who is only in his early twenties, has recently bagged the grand prize for the Photo Illustration category of the 2004 Digital Imaging Competition, a highly acclaimed contest that invites graphic artists all over the world to show their creativity to the whole world. One of the judges, digital imaging veteran Ryszard Horowitz, was impressed by Reña’s very creative output. So beautiful was his masterpiece that he bested hundreds of competitors around the world. It was published in the Popular Photography & Imaging magazine and was on display at Photo East 2004, an annual exhibit held at Jacob Javitt’s Center in New York City. According to Ian, the winning piece entitled “Rebirth” revolves around the concept of a renewed covenant with God. After coming up with a brilliant concept, he digitally manipulated it using Adobe Photoshop. As his creative juices were flowing in front of the computer, a nude picture of an artist and a picture of a nest emerged on the screen. He confessed that his work of art is a reflection of his life as a renewed Christian. His interpretation about the image is about a person who has undergone spiritual change and is now living a life of faith. He is also a consistent finalist in the Metrobank Young Painters Annual Contest and the Shell Student Art Competition.

12. CARA AREVALO "High Class Entrepreneur"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/cara-arevalo_bg.jpg)
Cara, who is born in Sorsogon, was destined to become an excellent entrepreneur. Her parents, Caroll and Reyes Arevalo started the Georgetown & Co with a starting capital of $15, 000 in the early 80’s. Cara, who was barely 10 years old when the Georgetown & Co business realized that her future in entrepreneurship was very bright. She tailor-fitted her course in the university for their family business. Through her natural gift for fashion and design, combined with hard work and perseverance, Cara made their business very profitable it harvests around 40 percent profit annually. Through her intelligence and hardwork, the family-owned company were able to set up a showroom in Washington DC, Holiday Inn, New Jersey and Cherry Hill. She joins trade shows to know how her product fares with the competition and how the members of the upper echelon of the society would react to her creatively designed and absolutely sexy products. The 29-year old Filipina entrepreneur likens her business to a child. “I’m feeding and feeding it and it grows bigger,” she quipped. During the trade show, the souvenirs and her well-designed jewelries were sold very quickly as if they were just hotcakes! Cara related that her jewelries were conceptualized by various designers and were meticulously built at various factories in Boston and Rhode Island. Her shawls, tempered with soft silky fabric, were also a hit to the visitors. Cara was the only trade exhibitor who joined the Ms. America’s vibrant parade. She was on top of a red convertible, waving her hands gracefully. Cara was very beautiful and sexy on that day that she could be mistaken as one of the candidates of the pageant.

13. JONNEL ENORME "At Home in the Ice"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/jonnel_inorme_bg.jpg)
From afar, he moves like a swan on the lake that is why it is not surprising how he bagged three of the 90 gold medals at the recently held World Recreational Ice Skating Championship. Jonnel Enorme, 23, is the country’s most unique ice skater. In fact, he is the only special ice skater in the country. He is suffering from cerebral palsy. He was born when her mother was only seven months pregnant. He was only as big as a corn when he was born. Because of his unusual state, his mother didn’t inform his father, a seafarer, about their son’s real condition.

14. LOLITA CAMPAS
"New York State Nurses Association President "
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/lolita_compas.jpg)
Thirty-four years after immigrating to the Big Apple, Lolita is now the president of New York State Nurses Association. Under her umbrella is some 6, 000 Filipino nurses and 34, 000 other nurses of different nationalities. She is the first non American-born president of the largest nurses’ union in the state. Before her current post, she was the president of the Philippine Nurses Association from 1998 to 2000. As president of NYSNA, she is the voice of the thousands of nurses under her umbrella. She continues to bridge the gap caused by cultural misunderstandings between Americans and other cultural minorities like the Filipinos. Lolita continues to fight for the rights of nurses and encourage the young people, particularly the Filipinos, who are known to be hard workers and naturally concerned about the welfare of others, to take-up nursing. For her, it is a profession that enriches the heart and provides a good monetary compensation.

15. MARK PARAGUA
"Young Grandmaster "
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/mark-paragua_bg.jpg)
Just recently, he was declared as the Philippines’ highest ranked player, with an ELO rating of 2529, according to the latest rankings of the International Chess Federation (FIDE). Last September, Mark achieved another victory when he earned his second Grandmaster result after almost five times of near misses. Mark already obtained his grandmaster norm in 2002 in Spain after he assassinated the King of Portuguese IM Sergio Rocha, Spanish GM Zenon Franco and Ukrainian GM Rusian Pogorelov. To make a norm, Mark has to display how well he plays against other Grandmasters. International Chess Federation rules stipulate that a player needs to have a minimum performance rating 2600 in a tournament with at least 5 titled players, including at least 2 Grandmasters, to get a Grandmasters result. Just last month, Paragua achieved the feat and overtook Eugene Torre with the distinction as the youngest Filipino to attain the GM title. Asia’s first GM, Eugene Torre, was 22 when he clinched the title in the 1974 World Chess Olympiad in Nice, France. I’m glad Mark has done it,” said Torre, a longtime vanguard of Philippine chess, “it shows that we are slowly catching up with the other countries in developing talents.”

16. ALLAN PINEDA "International Composer/Singer; Black-Eyed Peas' Member"
Allan is one of the founding members of the International Hip-Hop Band “Black Eyed Peas”. Born to a Filipino mother and an African-American father whom he never met. He originally composed the song “Where is the Love,” which is included in their latest album, dedicated to his brother who passed away. Second to that he wrote “The Apl Song” which was a mix of Tagalog and English, the lyrics were about his step father and his life while he was still in the Philippines. His life was never easy. He experienced so much sadness, longing to be with his family back in the Philippines but despite all these, he survived and tried moving on…so he did. Truly, there’s a rainbow always after the rain. After all that he went through his name is now known in the music industry and his star continuously shines in Los Angeles California. Their group is widely known as “Black Eyed Peas” and presently popular and enjoying sharing their talents around the world.

17. DOROTHY DELASIN "World Golf Champion"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/delasin_inside.jpg)
In the prestigious sport called Golf, one youth had proven that age doesn't matter. This is no other than Dorothy Delasin, a 20-year old champion golfer who is considered as a role model for aspiring Filipinos who want to achieve success in their chosen fields. From the start, her dad played a big role for Dorothy's golf career. He served as her coach, masseur and general assistant. It was Dorothy's perseverance that led her to a remarkable amateur career, winning the California Women's Championship and the US Junior Girls Championship in 1996. She won a Gold medal in the 1997 Southeast Asian Games where she represented the Philippines and the Junior World Championship in 1998. In 1999, she won the US Women’s championship.The year 2000 season of the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) tournament was a major turning point for Dorothy, where she bagged the Giant Eagle Classic making her the youngest LPGA winner since Amy Alcott in 1975. Dorothy, then 19, defeated veteran Pat Hurst on the second playoff hole. She was also the recipient of the 2000 LPGA Rookie of the Year. The Philippine Sports Association (PSA) recognized Delasin as a top sports achiever in the year 2000 and was awarded Athlete of the Year.

18. JOSIE NATORI "World Class Fashion Designer"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/JosieNatori.jpg)
Josie is founder and CEO of Natori Company, a women's clothier specializing in elegant lingerie and sophisticated, romantic daywear. Her company ranks among the world’s top 100 luxury brands. In 1985, her husband Ken justify his job as managing director of Shearson Lehman to become chairman of the Natori Company. The success of Natori Co. continues and now boasts showrooms and a design center in two Manhattan locations and distribution warehouses in Secaucus, N.J. Her lines are sold at stores including Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, Macy's, and Lord & Taylor. Josie’s overall success has been widely recognized and awarded internationally. Here are some of her achievements:Won the Ellis Island Medal of Honor and served as a commissioner to the White House Conference on Small Business, received the Galleon Award from President Corazon Aquino in 1988, 1988 New York City Partnership’s Business Woman of the Year, among the Board of Trustees of Manhattanville College, among the Board of Directors of the Educational Foundation of Fashion Industries, member of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, member of Fashion Group International, member of the Committee of 200, just to name a few.

19. CORAZON A. BAUSTISTA " Lady with A Cause"
(IMG:http://www.globalcareinc.com/images/pic_cb_big.jpg)
GlobalCare Inc's founder wanted to give something back - to the community from which she came, and to her adopted country. A succesful entrepreneur for over 15 years, she wanted to do more than just start another business. The new business had to be succesful - of course, but it also had to have redeeming social value. She also wanted the new venture to express a focus on the qualities that have made her homeland legendary.The natural choice was healthcare and trying to find a solution for the chronic nursing shortage in the United States by providing nurses from the Philippines.GlobalCare offially started business on May 1, 2002. We obtained our first order within two months of commencement and broke even after twelve months of operation. Exclusive contracts with major healthcare systems followed within the first eighteen months. She has authored several alliance programs that aims to champion the best Filipino nurses. She was featured in LifeStyle Asia Magazine.

20. Dr. JORGE GARCIA "World Class Filipino Heart Surgeon"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/Dr.%20Jorge%20Garcia.jpg)
Dr. Jorge Garcia, a native of Biñan, Laguna received his medical degree in University of Santo Tomas, Philippines. He migrated to the United States in 1967 and is currently based in Washington, D.C. In 1988, he headed the Makati Heart Foundation after convincing the Makati Medical Center to open a heart surgery program. It was in 1994 when he first performed a heart transplant in our country. This very energetic guy, at age 62, is also the president and the founding chairman of Asian Hospital located in Alabang, Muntinlupa City. Dr. Garcia is not just a prominent heart surgeon in the Philippines but in the United States as well. He does not mind going back and forth of the country as long as he lives up to the calling of his dedicated profession as a medical practitioner.

Awards:

1992 – First Filipino to receive an “American Heart Association Award”

1993 – Rated as “Top Doctor” in his specialization

1996 – Outstanding Filipino Overseas Awardee

1997 – Voted as the “Most Distinguished Alumnus of the Washington Hospital Center

Others:

Voted by Washington Magazine for 6 consecutive years as the “Doctor Who Received the Most Votes from other area physicians as the doctor they would go to for a heart surgery”

Several TV appearances

(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/biggthumpup.gif) You are a Filipino and the power to live your dreams is within your hands. Be the Philippines' pride, spread the goodness to every Filipino and shine your light for all people to see!

(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) DREAM BIGGER AND FLY HIGHER FILIPINO!!!

This post has been edited by PedroCarvalho: Dec 12 2005, 08:42 PM

[PedroCarvalho]

(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/biggthumpup.gif) Yes, the Philippines is a country blessed with many natural wonders and resources; and, the best among these God-given resources is its people.

(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/cool30.gif) Let me share a few of the many Filipinos who are bringing pride and honor to the Philippines in recent history (Part III)

21. PACITA ABAD "World Class Trapunto Painter"

Filipino émigré Pacita Abad is an established artist internationally recognized for her trapunto paintings - unique works of art artistically created in a technique she developed. Her murals are made by quilting and sewing pieces of fabric together to form a cohesive image. A peripatetic artist, she has traveled an incredible number of countries all over the continents of Asia, Africa and Latin America. Her art works are strongly influenced by her own culture and by the diverse cultures she interacts with along her journeys. Throughout 1980-1994, she traveled around the United States and Europe teaching lectures. Abad has lectured at the Asian Art Museum in San Francisco, Columbia University Teacher's College, the National Museum for Women in the Arts, George Washington University, the University of Massachusetts and the Textile Museum in Washington DC, among others.

Achievements:

First Asian woman to receive the Excellence 2000 Award from the U.S. Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce presented at the National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington D.C. in 1995.

Featured in numerous shows worldwide:

New York (1987, 1990 & 1992)

Musee des Arts Africains et Oceanien, Paris. (1988)

Cultural Center of the Philippines, Manila (1985)

Metropolitan Museum, Manila (1984)

Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, Havana, Cuba (1984)

Museum of Philippine Art, Manila (1984)

Altos de Chavan, Dominican Republic (1984)

National Center of African American Artists, Boston (1982)

National Museum of Women in the Arts, Washington, D.C.

Hong Kong Arts Center, Hong Kong

Bhirasri Institute of Modern Art, Bangkok

Art Museum of Western Virginia, Roanoke


22. IRENE MORA "First Filipino Astronaut"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/irenemora.jpg)
Irene Mora was born and raised in Sacramento, California. Her Filipino parents, Edna and Benito, Jr. are from San Jose, Occidental Mindoro. Four of her other siblings were natural-born Filipino, who now reside in Mindoro. 12 years ago, she gave up being an American citizen and opted to be a full Filipino citizen instead. You will notice on her flight suit, a Philippine flag patch is sewn right above her heart. A graduate of an Engineering course at the Kyushu University in Japan, Irene graduated as a scholar. But to fly is her real dream! A real adventurous, Ms. Mora studied commercial flying in Florida and the first Filipino to be trained for space travel. Before entering NASA, Mora serves as part of the Philippine Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit by conduction air search and rescue missions using her Cessna seaplane. In the year 2000 Irene applied and passed to be a civilian participant in the NASA space program. Completed training for space cadets from scuba and skydiving, sea rescue and survival, zero-gravity exercises, and even combat. Considered as one of the best skydivers in the world. This year, Ms. Mora will face her new journey to Mars and is currently undergoing rigorous training in Russia. She wanted to be an inspiration to the youth and be the youngest astronaut to explore the space.

23. HAYDEE YORAC "Ramon Magsaysay Awardee"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/yorac.jpg)
The late Haydee Yorac is one of the two Filipinos to receive a Ramon Magsaysay Award, which is the Asian equivalent of the Nobel Prize. The Ramon Magsaysay Foundation recognized Yorac for her government service. She is cited for “her building confidence in government thru service of exceptional integrity and rigor and her unwavering pursuit of the rule of law in the Philippines.”

24. CECILLE LICAD-MENESES
"International Pianist"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/cecillicad_inside.jpg) [
Accolades:

1981 - Leventritt Gold Medal (youngest female recipient)
1985 - Grand Prix de Disque (Warsaw, Poland)
1990 - Time Magazine’s Critics Choice for Record of the Month
1986 - The Outstanding Women in the Nation' s Service (TOWNS) Award.
1987 - Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) Award
1991 - Presidential Award of Merit
1994 - Gawad CCP sa Sining

Global Filipina Cecile Licad-Meneses gives shine to the wonderful world of music with her "brilliant fusion of pianistic power and poetry" (EMI Classics Album). This world-renowned musician and extremely talented lady makes every Filipino proud as she brings honor to her country with her astounding achievements. At the tender age of five, she became the personal scholar of Rosario Picazo at the University of East (UE) School of Music and Arts. She made her orchestral debut at age seven. Five years later, Cecile moved to Philadelphia, USA and trained under Mieczyslaw Horszowski, Seymour Lipkin and Rudolf Serkin at the Curtis Institute of Music where she received the "Most Outstanding Student" Award. She continued to enhance her talent at the Institute for Young Performing Musicians in Brattelboro, Vermont from 1979 to 1981. She also went to a summer scholarship training at the Ravel Academy in France and Marlboro School and Music Festival. In 1981, Cecile was honored as the first musician in a decade to receive the prestigious Leventritt Gold Medal. After a year, she performed in a nationally televised presentation of Tchaikovsky's First Piano Concerto with Sir George Solti and the Chicago Symphony.Cecile has performed with distinguished orchestras worldwide such as the Philadelphia Orchestra, Chicago Symphony, Boston Symphony and the New York Philharmonic. She has also performed for the New Japan Philharmonic, Hong Kong Philharmonic, Philippine Philharmonic and London
Philharmonic. Cecile is now one of the most sought-after soloists of her generation and perhaps the world’s most popular concert pianist.

25. RAMONA DIAZ-MEYER "Filipino-American Photo journalist who won Pultizer Award"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/CherylMeyer.jpg)
In 2001, Ramona Diaz-Meyer covered the U.S. led war on terrorism and in 2002 she photographed Muslim and Christian extremism and violence caused by religious hatred in the Philippines and Indonesia. Most of her assignments now are in the war zone. She traveled to Afghanistan to photograph the war on terrorism and its effect on the people and in 2003 when the U.S. invaded Iraq where she encountered near-death experiences. Her photographs from the war scene of Iraq are very heartbreaking and thought provoking like a child being comforted by his father as hospital staff cleaned his shrapnel wounds or a Marine resting in the shade beneath an amphibious assault vehicle. Aside from the Dallas Morning News her work from Iraq was published in the Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, Los Angeles Times, New York Times, Newsweek and Spiegel magazines, Corbis’ Desert Diaries and Life’s The War in Iraq. Because of their body of work from Iraq, Ms. Cheryl Diaz Meyer won the 2004 Pulitzer Prize for Breaking News Photography, the highest award a journalist can attain. Some of her other achievements are the John Faber Award from the Overseas Press Club, Outstanding Award for Journalism and a lot, lot more. For Ms. Meyer, being assigned in a war zone thought her to be humble in so many things and take each day as a gift without regret.

26. JOSEPHINE 'BANIG' ROBERTO
"Star Search Grand Champion"
Since then, Banig has appeared in numerous television shows such as the Arsenio Hall Show, Into The Night With Rick Dees, Maury Povich Show, Super Dave Osborne Show, Good Day LA, AM Los Angeles, and more. She even sang the Star Spangled Banner for the Clippers vs. the Kings and USC vs. Nebraska. In 1994, Banig released her first U.S. CD entitled "Can You Feel My Heart?". She also received an overwhelming response from students of different races when she had a school tour to promote her CD. Banig started headlining her own solo concerts since she was 10, including a concert in Manila which was attended by half a million people, and sold out shows in Atlantic City's Trump Taj Mahal. She has also staged solo concerts in prestigious venues such as the Wiltern Theater in L.A., Cow Palace in SF, City Center in NY, The Roxy and Hollywood Palladium in LA, San Diego Convention Center and Copley Symphony Hall in SD, and many, many more.Banig has mastered the tricks and kicks of the field that she chose at an early age. From singing and dancing, to playing musical instruments, she is also a songwriter. Banig collaborates with her younger sister and producer Jhoanna. Like her older sis, Jhoanna possesses a tremendous amount of talent that will surely become another world-class prodigy. A songwriter, producer, dancer, choreographer, musician....the performing arts truly runs in the family.

Climbing a mountain with a vertical dimension of 22, 842 feet and a temperature of below zero is a task not all mortals could do. And GP is proud to announce that a Filipino has done such unbelievable feat.

27. ROMI GARDUCE "Ain't No Mountain High Enough"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/romi_garduce_bg.jpg)
He is Romi Garduce, the first Filipino to plant the Philippine flag in the highest peak in South America. The information technology systems manager based here in Manila conquered Mt. Aconcagua in Argentina, just days after the New Year. “Climbing has its start - interest, personal challenge, whatever. Over time, one will probably develop a personal goal. Most will probably just try once or twice, then the interest will wear off, then due to other personal interests and plans they may eventually abandon the glorious out-of-the-country outdoor life. But a few will pursue, and will have this Great Grand Plan!” strong words from a strong man who fulfilled his Great Grand Plan when he placed the Philippine flag in one of the highest place in the whole world. His achievement is definitely not a walk in the park. “At 13,000 feet, there’s already no vegetation to be seen. It’s very windy, very chilly with temperature dropping to negative 20 degrees or lower.”

28. MACKY LIM "MTV Master of Disgust"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/mackylim_bg.jpg)
The Philippines’ 23 year old Jose Miguel Lim traveled all the way to Thailand and beat six other finalists from six other countries in MTV’s Whatever Things Show Host Contest. Known to his friends as Macky, this Filipino passed through arguably the most disgusting contest ever shown on TV. On the first round, he gorged a native Thai Cuisine, which was a type of raw fish. On the next round called “Free for All,” which meant the contestants could do anything they want just to please the crowd, he invited a female member of the audience up on stage to hit his groin with a baseball bat. If his face looks familiar to you, it is because he has already appeared in several commercials for Breadsticks and most recently, Globe. Macky works as a brand communications assistant for a food company. His pastime includes playing basketball and perfecting the moves of his chosen martial art.

29. PAOLO MONTALBAN
"US Television and Broadway Actor"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/paolo_inside.jpg)
Paolo is Philippine-born and Jersey City-raised. His father Paul Montalban was formerly a Chemist and shifted to computer programming while his mother Vivian was also in the same field and now a computer analyst. In 1989, he entered Rutgers University where he got a scholarship at the age of 15. Graduated in 1993 with a bachelor degree in Psychology. The actor who stands 6'1" has a considerable experience in musical theater since he started out at the tender age of 6 when he played Jesus in "Jesus Christ Superstar." And because of his talent and dedication, he continued what he has started and appears in broadway and national tours of hit musicals like "Man of La Mancha", "Ballad of Billy Jo" and "The King and I" (with other Fil-Am actor Lou Diamond Phillips). His TV commitments include "Mortal Kombat Conquest: The Series," where he played the role as Kung Lao. In 1997 he was sent by his agent to audition for a part in the $2-million reproduction of the classic telemovie "Cinderella" and was successfully chosen to play the role of Prince Charming. Paolo was thrilled not only to be seen all over the US, but also to have worked with the likes of Whoopi Goldberg, Bernadette Peters, Jason Alexander and Whitney Houston, who played the fairy godmother. Paolo was also chosen as one of People magazine's "50 Most Beautiful People" in 1998.

30. TONI LEVISTE "World Class Equistrian"
(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/tonileviste2.jpg)
Recognized as one of Asia’s top riders, Toni Leviste has ridden hard and fast. Her march to success was not soft and easy, years of hard work and dedication slowly brings her to where she is now. She started riding at the age of 10, where most kids at that age enjoy their life at playing and having fun. Toni is different, she dedicated most of her time practicing and polishing her skills in riding. One of her childhood dreams was to become an Olympian. Toni was the daughter of former Batangas Governor Antonio Leviste and stepdaughter of Senator Loren Legarda. Being part of the elite society, Toni still remains as humble and down to earth to everyone that she works and interacts with. That’s why many people love and admire her so much; she always wears that genuine smile even in her tough times. To sharpen her skills she participates in numerous international competitions where she gives honor to the Philippines. One of her many achievements include the merit of being the first Southeast Asian to represent the region in the World Cup Show Jumping Finals, obtaining the best finish by a Southeast Asian in the Olympic Games and constantly winning gold medals in the SEA and ASEAN Games.




(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/biggthumpup.gif) Certainly, there are many Filipinos who bringing glory to the Philippines, and 30 of them are on the List that I shared with you.
In many different arenas, fields of expertise and avenues, more and more Filipinos who are soaring greater heights! We have Manny Pacquiao, Lalaine Vergara, Django Bustamante, Alex Pagulayan, Jacklyn Pangilinan, Oscar Solis, Jessica Hagedorn, Tiffany Limos, Lea Salonga, Joan Almidilla, Lisa Macuja, Francisco Aliwaswas, Mikee Cojuangco, Regine Velasquez, Efren Reyes, Paeng Nepomuceno, Agapito Flores, Dr. Fe del Mundo, and so many more...
YOU can also champion our country. Stand tall, hold our heads up high and be the pride of the Philippines...

(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) DREAM BIGGER AND FLY HIGHER FILIPINO!!!

This post has been edited by PedroCarvalho: Dec 29 2005, 10:30 PM

[PedroCarvalho]

(IMG:http://logo.cafepress.com/1/10747.73541.jpg)
(IMG:http://www.primetime.com.ph/download/poplogo.gif)
POSIBLE
(2005 SEA Games)
Rivermaya

Posible kayang labanan
Ang agos ng paghamon
Mabuwal at madapa man
Sabay tayong aahon

Posible kayang mabura
Alinlangan sa sarili
Ang tapang sa loob makikita
Taglay mo ang dugong bayani

CHORUS:
Sulong, laban, ‘wag uurong
Pakinggan sa iyong puso
Ang sigaw na dati’y bulong

Sulong, laban, Pilipino
Pakinggan sa iyong puso
Ang sigaw na dati’y bulong
Posible

Posible kayang matikman
Tamis ng gintong minimithi
Sa kagat ng bawat laban
Magtatagumpay kang muli

CHORUS

Posible!
Posible!

(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/cool30.gif) (IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/cool30.gif) (IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/cool30.gif) Download the song POSIBLE. Be the best Filipino for a better Philippines!

(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)

This post has been edited by PedroCarvalho: Dec 12 2005, 08:43 PM

[dalawapo]

pedro why you always saying filipinos are spanish,chinese, mix sprinkle go post the spanish and chinese flag too,

[filipinoy]

pedro why you always saying filipinos are spanish,chinese, mix sprinkle go post the spanish and chinese flag too,

African flag too, since he said filipinos r mixed w/ negroids

anyways here's Dalawapo's flag
(IMG:http://www.gettysburgflag.com/images/guam.jpg)

[PedroCarvalho]

pedro why you always saying filipinos are spanish,chinese, mix sprinkle go post the spanish and chinese flag too,

(IMG:http://logo.cafepress.com/1/10747.73541.jpg)
(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif) WE ARE THE FILIPINO PEOPLE!!! (IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif)
(IMG:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/1/1d/Mangyangirl.jpg/110px-Mangyangirl.jpg) (IMG:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/9b/Garyvalenciano.jpg/80px-Garyvalenciano.jpg) (IMG:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/47/Ifugaoman.jpg/106px-Ifugaoman.jpg) (IMG:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b0/Jose_rizal_01.jpg/80px-Jose_rizal_01.jpg) (IMG:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/1/14/Ph_pres_aquino.jpg/80px-Ph_pres_aquino.jpg) (IMG:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/91/Tboli_woman.jpg/86px-Tboli_woman.jpg)
(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/biggthumpup.gif) According to WowPhilippines.com, which is the Official Website of the Department of Tourism of the Philippines, the Filipino is basically of Malay stock with a sprinkling of Chinese, American, Spanish, and Arab blood. The Philippines has a population of 76.5 million as of May 2000, and it is hard to distinguish accurately the lines between stocks. From a long history of Western colonial rule, interspersed with the visits of merchants and traders, evolved a people of a unique blend of east and west, both in appearance and culture.

(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/biggthumpup.gif) According to Wikipedia.com, an free online dictionary that throughout the colonial era, the term "Filipino" originally referred to Spaniards born in the Philippines, also known as insulares, criollos or español filipino. This distinguished them from Spaniards born in Europe who were known as peninsulares. By the late 19th century, the term Filipino began to widely refer to the indigenous population of the Philippines. According to journalist Ambeth Ocampo, José Rizal was the first to do this.
Filipino is also used to signify the nationality and citizenship of one who is from the Philippines. This means that not only indigenous Filipinos are included but also others foreign ethnic groups such as the Chinese, Hispanics, the inhabitants of East Timor, Indonesia, Malaysia, Polynesia, and other Austronesian speaking ethnic groups.

(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/biggthumpup.gif) According to H. Otley Beyer, an American anthropologist, the Philippines is basically Indo-Malay in origin and with Chinese and Spanish ancestry. During Pre-historic Philippines, Aetas occupied some parts of the archipelago but they were largely displaced by Malays who came from Malayan Peninsula populated the Philippines in a handful of waves of migration. However, according to contemporary research by anthropologists, linguists (Blust, Reid, Ross, Pawley) and archaeologists (Bellwood)propose the opposite to be true. The vast majority of Filipinos are said to be descended from Austronesian-speaking migrants which arrived in what is now the Philippines from southern China via Taiwan during the Iron age.

(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif) The "Filipino" is a term that is used to signify the nationality and citizenship of one who is from the Republic of the Philippines, regardless of whether that Filipino (or Filipina) has Chinese, Spanish or other foreign ethnic blood. This is the same as the terminology, "American," which does not only refer to White/European descents but as well as to Blacks, Hispanic and Asians who recognized themselves as people of the United States of America (USA).

(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/embarassedlaugh.gif) 2 I do not need to post a Spanish or Chinese flag; the Philippines is an independent country and has its own flag. Ethnically and racially speaking, the Filipino race may have sprinkling of blood of many different ancestries but we are still distinct from these groups of people that comprise our gene pool because we are known as Filipinos by nationality and citizenship. Ex-President Corzaon C. Aquino, for instance, has Chinese blood but she is Filipino; Gary Valenciano, has Spanish blood but he is still Filipino; Jose Rizal has Chinese, Indo-Malay and little Spanish blood but he refers to himself as "Indio" or "Indigenous Filipino;" the linguistic groups of Northwestern Philippines have their ancestors from Southern and Eastern China but they are still Filipinos; the Agtas or Aetas of Zambales whose ancestors had come from Africa are our Filipino brothers too. You see how varied Filipinos are. We are composed of many different races but we are nationally and legally called "FILIPINOS."

(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)

This post has been edited by PedroCarvalho: Dec 12 2005, 12:30 AM

[filipinoy]

^is that my flag? lol

[PedroCarvalho]

(IMG:http://logo.cafepress.com/1/10747.73541.jpg)
(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif) This LIST of FAMOUS FILIPINOS was taken from Wikipedia.Com, the free online dictionary. (IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif)
National Figures
José Rizal
Andres Bonifacio
Emilio Aguinaldo
Lapu-Lapu
Diego Silang
Gabriela Silang
Gregorio del Pilar
Simeon Ola
Miguel Malvar
GOMBURZA
Marcelo del Pilar
Tarik Soliman
Antonio Luna
Macario Sakay
Francisco Dagohoy
Melchora Aquino - also called Tandang Sora
Apolinario Mabini
Politics - Government
Benigno Aquino Jr.
Jose Diokno
Corazon Aquino
Ashima Takis
Joseph Estrada
Carlos P. Garcia
Jose Laurel
Diosdado Macapagal
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo
Ferdinand Marcos
Imelda Marcos
Maria Imelda Marcos
Blas Ople
Fernando Poe Jr.
Manuel L. Quezon
Fidel Ramos
Manuel Roxas
Carlos P. Romulo
Luis Singson
Honorio Ventura
Philip Vera Cruz
Larry Itilong
Ninotchka Rosca
Sergio Osmena
Art - Literature
Cecilio Apostol
Francisco Arcellana
Jose Garcia Villa
Feliciano Basa
Manuel Ravago
Fernando Maria Guerrero
Manuel Bernabe
Francisco Varona
Renato Constantino
Napoleon Abueva
Fernando Amorsolo
Lualhati Bautista
Roberto Chabet
Arlene J. Chai
Fabián de la Rosa
Damián Domingo
Victorio C. Edades
Carlos Francisco
Jessica Hagedorn
Felix Resurrección Hidalgo
Nick Joaquin
F. Sionil José
Bienvenido Lumbrera
Juan Luna
Arturo Luz
Henry (Henrique)
Dávid Cortéz Medalla
Hernándo Ocampo
Charlson Ong
Jorge Pineda
Romeo Tabuena
Eric Gamalinda
Alfred Yuson
Fernando Zobel
Mike "Dream" Francisco
Al Robles
Carlos Bulosan
Francisco Balagtas
Sergio Bumatay
Vicente Manansala
Jose Joya
Norberto Carating
Religious Icon
St. Lorenzo Ruiz
Santo Niño
Business
Zobel de Ayalas
Aboitiz Cargo Shipping
Lito Blanco
Casino Español
Casino Filipino
Tita Guapa
Henry Sy
Lucio Tan
Tan Yu
George Ty
José Romero
Rudy Romero
Thomas Neufarth
Entertainment
Kris Aquino
Bianca Araneta
Claudine Barretto
Gretchen Barretto
Jackielou Blanco
Tia Carrere - Hollywood
Phoebe Cates - Hollywood
Gabby Concepción
Paolo Contis
Sharon Cuneta
John Lloyd Cruz
Ricky Davaó
Joey de León
Monsour del Rosario
Dolphy
Julio Díaz
Dinah Dominguez
Esteban Escudero
Emilio Estavez
Eddie García
Richard Gómez
Ramón Christopher Gutíerrez
Rufa Gutíerrez
Enrique Iglesias
Joyce Jimenez
Manuel Lito Lapid
Aga Muhlach
Niño Muhlach
Cesar Montano
Edu Manzano
Ara Mina
Nora Aunor
Vina Morales
Alma Moreno
Germán Moreno
William Martínez
Zsa Zsa Padilla
Lou Diamond Phillips - Hollywood
Isabel Preysler
Piolo Pascual
Prince
Roderick Paolate
Ramón Revilla
Dante Rívero
Alessandra de Rossi
Asunta de Rossi
Jericho Rosales
Vilma Santos
Rob Schneider - Hollywood
Maricel Soriano
Tito Sotto
Vic Sotto
Lorna Tolentino
Tamlyn Tomita
Vic Vargas
Ian Veneración
Lalaine - Hollywood
Joana Bacalso - Hollywood
Trey Farley - UK
Cassie Steele - Canada
Honey Labrador - Hollywood: Queer Eye For The Straight Gal
Music and Composition
Allan Pineda Lindo - The Black Eyed Peas
Freddie Aguilar
Rowena Arrieta
Joey Ayala
Ryan Cayabyab
Pilita Corrales
Billy Crawford
José Mari Chan
Joseph Esmilla
Pops Fernandez
Sarah Geronimo
Mark Bautista
Enrique Iglesias
Julio José Iglesias
Jaya
Kirk Hammet - Metallica
Arnee Hidalgo
Gil Lopez Kabuyao
Lucrecia Kasilag
Cecile Licad
Francisco Magallóna
Martín Nievera
Grace Nono
Ariel Rivera
Lea Salonga
Jasmine Trias - American Idol
Basil Valdez
Gary Valenciano
Nyoy Volante
Regine Velasquez
Yano
Nonoy Zuñiga
Kiwi - Native Guns
Bambu - Native Guns
DJ Q-Bert - Invisibl Skratch Pikilz
Mixmaster Mike Invisibl Skratch Pikilz
DJ Babu - Dilated Peoples
Joe Bataan - Latin R&B Artist
Sugar Pie DeSanto - Soul
DJ Dave Dynamix - 3-Style Attractions
Camile Velasco - American Idol
Mig Ayesa - Rockstar INXS
Christian Mendoza - Denmark Idol-Winner
Chad Hugo - "The Neptunes"
Dance
Lisa Macuja
Osias Barroso
Alice Reyes
Beauty Queen
Gemma Cruz - Miss International 1964
Gloria Diaz - Miss Universe 1969
Aurora Pijuan - Miss International 1970
Margarita Moran - Miss Universe 1973
Melanie Márquez- Miss International 1979
Precious Lara Quigaman - Miss International 2005
Evangeline Pascual - 1st runner up Miss World 1973
Miriam Quiambao - 1st runner up Miss Universe 1999
Ruffa Guttierez - 2nd runner up Miss World 1994
Charlene Gonzalez - top 5 finalist Miss Universe 1994
Miriam Quiambao - 1st Runner-Up Miss Universe 1999
Precious Lara Quigaman - Miss International 2005
Angela Perez Baraquio- Miss America 2001
Maricar Balagtas
Melyssa Jill Ramos - Miss Indiana Teen USA 2002
Jeanette Josue - Miss New Jersey USA 2001
Vanessa Minnillo - Miss Teen USA 1998
Fashion Models & Designers
Bianca Araneta
Anna Bayle
Evita Oblea Bunyi
Valerie Celis
Francine Dee
Josie Natori
Ala Paredes
Inno Sotto
Rafé Totengco
Monique Lhuillier
Law & Jurisprudence
Jose Abad Santos
Hilario Davide
Marcelo Fernan
Kiwi Alejandro Camara
Haydee Yorac
Religion
St. Lorenzo Ruiz
Eliseo Soriano
José Sánchez
Cardinal Jaime Sin
Gaudencio Rosales
Ricardo Vidal
Eduardo Villanueva
Journalism & Media
Armando Malay
Luis V. Teodoro Jr.
Amando Doronilla
Eugenia Duran-Apostol
Isabel Preysler
Chabeli Iglesias
Conrado de Quiros
Sheila Coronel
Yvonne Chua
Manuel L. Quezon III
Teodoro Locsin Sr.
Teodoro Locsin Jr.
Isagani Cruz
Ceres Doyo
Jessica Zafra
Denise Dador
Maria Quiban
Nanette Miranda
Veronica Pedrosa - CNN Asia anchor
Sports
David Bautista - Wrestling
Allan Caidic - Professional Basketball
Gabriel Elorde - World Professional Boxing
Ceferino Garcia - Boxing
Francisco Bustamante - Billiards
Alex Pagulayan - 2004 World Pool Champion
Ramón Fernández - Professional Basketball
Jasmin Figueroa
Erik Gatmaitan - Professional Billiards
Robert Jaworski - Professional Basketball
Beatriz Lucero
Rafael "Paeng" Nepumuceno - International Bowling
Manuel Pacquiao - World Professional Boxing
Francisco "Pancho Villa" Guilledo - World Professional Boxing/National Boxing Hero
Alvin Patrimonio - Professional Basketball
Benjie Paras - Professional Basketball
Jennifer Rosales
Efren Reyes - International Billiards
Akiko Thomson - Swimming
Eugenio Torre - International Chess
Mansueto Velasco - Amateur Asian and Olympic Boxing
Speedy Dado - Boxing
Samboy Lim - Professional Basketball
Small Montana - Boxing
Dencio Cabanella - Boxing
Dado Marino - Boxing
Elma Muros
Lydia de Vega - Track and Field

(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/biggthumpup.gif) AND SO MANY, MANY MORE!!!

(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)

This post has been edited by PedroCarvalho: Dec 11 2005, 11:48 PM

[PedroCarvalho]

(IMG:http://www2.igma.tv/images/left_jessica_soho.jpg)

(IMG:http://logo.cafepress.com/1/10747.73541.jpg) JESSICA SOHO
(IMG:http://www2.igma.tv/layout/banner_news.jpg)

Both on air and behind the scenes, Jessica Soho is a force to be reckoned with. A major player in the News and Public affairs industry, she is not only respected but also admired. With a long list of international and local awards to her name, Jessica Soho's track record is impeccable. Winner of the acclaimed George Foster Peabody Award for Investigative Journalism and the New York Film and Television Festival for Coverage of a Breaking Story, credibility and excellence is what this woman is about.

Career Highlights

Jessica Soho is one of the most awarded television journalists in the Philippines. She is currently one of the country’s top broadcast journalists. Her credibility as a no-holds-barred reporter gives the show a strong edge.

Awards:

*2003 Rotary Club of Manila, Journalism Awards, Hall of Fame Recipient

*2002 PMPC Star Awards for Television, Best News Magazine Show and Best News Magazine Host – jessica soho reports

*2002 Catholic Mass Media Awards, Best News Magazine Show – jessica soho reports

*2002 KBP Golden Dove Awards, Best Public Affairs Program for Metro Manila and Best Public Affairs Host – jessica soho reports

*George Foster Peabody Award for Investigative Journalism. This is regarded as the Pulitzer Prize for Broadcasting. Two documentaries reported and produced by Ms. Soho, "Kidneys for Sale" and "Kamao" (Fist) has won for her network, the Philippines' first Peabody award.

*New York Film and Television Festival for Coverage of a Breaking Story. Ms. Soho's coverage of a hostage crisis in Cagayan Valley in Northern Philippines won the bronze in the festival. She is the first Filipino to have won this award and in the news category. She has also been a consistent finalist in this same festival since.

*Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU) Grand Prize Winner. "Kape at Balita", hosted by Ms. Soho for both radio and TV won this award in Kyoto, Japan for coverage of a breaking story.

*Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) Award. Ms. Soho won this award in 1993. This is usually given to the best and brightest Filipinos in various fields.

*TV Journalist of the Year given by the prestigious Rotary Club of Manila. Ms. Soho won this award for two (2) consecutive years: 1989 and 1990.

*Golden Dove Awardee / Broadcaster of the Year (Ka Doroy Valencia Award) given by the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkasters sa Pilipinas. She is the first recipient of this award.

*Journalist of the Year given by the Rotary Club District 3180

*Cultural Center of the Philippines or CCP Gawad Natatanging Parangal (Special Awardee) for two (2) consecutive years: 1989 and 1990.

*Best TV Special for "The Anatomy of Rape", a documentary/special report hosted, reported and produced by Ms. Soho. The award was given by the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP).

*Best TV News Magazine for "Within the Walls", a documentary/special report hosted, reported and produced by Ms. Soho on prison life. The award was given by the Catholic Mass Media Awards.

*Political Reporter of the Year Award for coverage of "The Ipil Massacre" given by the Metro Pacific Corporation Journalism Awards.

*Best Host in the 1999 Golden Dove Awards given by the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkasters sa Pilipinas.

*Fleet Street Awardee for Investigative Journalism given by the British Embassy in Manila in 1998.

*Special Award for Journalism given to the program I-WITNESS by the Star Awards for Television. The program was hosted then by Ms. Soho and three (3) other hosts : Cheche Lazaro, Luchi Cruz-Valdes and Mike Enriquez.

*Ambassador of Dreams given to Five Outstanding Filipinas led by the former President Corazon Aquino.

*100 Filipino Women of Distinction. Ms. Soho was included in a book on top 100 Filipinos of the first 100 years of the Philippine Republic. The book was authored by Joy Buensalido and Abe Florendo.

*Community Outstanding Young Achievers (COYA) given by the Quezon City Capitol Jaycees and the Sampaguita Jaycees Inc.

*Outstanding Alumnae of the College of Mass Communication, University of the Philippines.

*Outstanding Citizen of the Province of La Union and the City of San Fernando, La Union respectively given by the Governor and the Mayor.

*Finalist, Best Documentary in the Asian TV Festival for "Kamao" (Fist), a documentary on the plight of Filipino boxers.

*Finalist, Best Documentary and UNESCO Awardee in the 2000 New York Film and Television Festival for "Katas ng Payatas" (The Essence of Payatas), a documentary on the tragic garbage dump in Metro Manila.

*Outstanding Contribution in the field of Media for the successful People Power II revolt given by the Council on Philippine Affairs or COPA. COPA is composed of various organizations that make up the "civil society" in the Philippines.

*Outstanding Broadcast Journalist Award given by the Metrobank Foundation in October 2001.

*Ten Outstanding Women in the Nation's Service (TOWNS) Awardee for Media for 2001.

*Best Documentary Program for I-WITNESS given by the Star Awards for Television for 2001.

*Best TV News Magazine for I-WITNESS (episode by Jessica Soho) given by the Catholic Mass Media Awards for 2001.

*Best News and Current Affairs Special for 2001 given by the Asian TV Festival for SAKSI sa KASAYSAYAN. Ms. Soho was Supervising Producer for this special.

*Juror, 37th Grand Anvil Awards - Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP)

Membership in Organizations/Conferences Attended

*Former Director and Secretary of the National Press Club

*Former President, Defense Press Corps

*Fellow, Nihon Shimbun Kyokai (Association of Newspaper Editors and Publishers of Japan)

*Grantee, International Visitors Program of the United States Information Service

*Delegate, Confederation of ASEAN Journalists (Singapore, 1991)

*Delagate, International Media Seminar organized by the United Nations Population Fund (Bali, Indonesia 1992)

*Delegate, Producers' Meeting organized by the Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU) (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 1992)

*Delegate, Radio-TV News Directors of America (RTNDA) Convention (Los Angeles, California 1996)

*Delegate, Radio-TV News Directors of America (RTNDA) Convention (New Orleans, Louisiana 1997)

*Delegate, Seminar on Democracy given by the British Council (Colchester, Essex, England 1998)

Work History

Ms. Soho started out as a beat reporter. She has covered practically all of the major beats: education, police, Malacañang, justice and courts, defense and military, general assignments, etc.

She has helped produce a number of News and Public Affairs specials and programs including the network's election coverage from the 1980s until the most recent one.

She has also been sent on a number of significant overseas assignments such as the exile of the Marcoses in Hawaii; the Hongkong Handover in 1997; President Corazon Aquino's first state visit to Indonesia and Singapore in 1986; President Fidel Ramos' state visit to France and Germany in 1993 and many more. She has also reported on the plight of overseas Filipino workers in Hongkong, Singapore, Japan and South Korea.

She founded and conceptualized the program EMERGENCY. She was the first Executive Producer of the program.

She is one of the founders of the premiere investigative news magazine show, BRIGADA SIETE. She was also the host and chief reporter of the program.

She was head of the Special Assignments Team (SAT) of GMA News and Public Affairs. This section produced special/investigative reports for GMA's news programs, SAKSI and FRONTPAGE.

She conceptualized I-WITNESS, the pioneering and highly-acclaimed documentary series of GMA. She is also one of the original hosts of the program.

On the side, Ms. Soho has been a member of the screening committee of TOYM for four (4) consecutive years. This committee screens and selects TOYM nominees.

Recently, Ms. Soho has pioneered in the coverage of world events such as the crisis in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Israel.

As News Director of GMA Network, she oversees the production of the network's news programs – Frontpage, Saksi and Flash Reports.


(IMG:http://www.inq7.net/nwsbrk/2003/nov/10/images/nbk_8-1.jpg)

(IMG:http://logo.cafepress.com/1/10747.73541.jpg) FELIPE GOZON "Master Entrepreneur of the Year"

The tale of GMA Network, Inc.’s current position could very well read like a storyline of one of the network’s hit shows, and the protagonist would undoubtedly be Atty. Felipe L. Gozon. The current Chairman, President, and CEO of GMA is credited for the network’s impressive turnaround in recent years, enabling it to claim the top spot in terms of audience ratings and profits.

With a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of the Philippines and a Masters of Laws degree from Yale, Gozon never thought he would be heading GMA, a conglomerate of companies engaged in radio and TV broadcasting, post production services, filmmaking, music recording, and new media.

Gozon was part of the triumvirate who bought GMA from the original American owners. The other two major owners were Gozon’s brother-in-law Menardo Jimenez and former Rizal Congressman Gilberto Duavit, now represented in the firm by chief operating officer and EVP Jimmy Duavit, Jr. At first, Gozon served as GMA’s Chairman while Jimenez served as CEO.

For some time, GMA enjoyed first place in ratings but slipped to second in the mid-1980s. “It was demoralizing. There was a defeatist attitude here,” recalls Gozon.

All that changed when he assumed leadership in 2000. “When I came in, we changed the culture, or else how can you win the game? I rallied everyone to strive to be number one in ratings and revenues, and I backed that up with action.” Gozon sought to instill a major change in the mindset of the people. To move from the number two to number one slot, he introduced the “profitability per program” concept, which meant that shows had to meet both ratings and profitability benchmarks; otherwise, they were replaced. He ensured that old equipment was upgraded or replaced. He also decided to close down losing ventures.

“Some of our people had a culture shock,” he says. “The hardest thing to do is to change the attitude and culture of the people.”

People eventually saw that Gozon was serious about his goal of regaining GMA’s lead and began to comprehend why he shuttered losing companies where resources were being dissipated—GMA Films, the UHF channel 27, Infinity Records. It paid off when GMA grabbed the number one spot in the daytime slot on December 23, 2003, and the network has been steadily on the rise since then.

GMA currently has a network of 46 VHF stations and can be seen via satellite in a number of households in Asia, Australia, and Hawaii. It can also be heard on the airwaves through dzBB-AM and dwLS-FM in Manila, dySS-AM and dyRT-FM in Cebu, and in 27 RGMA radio stations throughout the country. Its popular shows include fantasy series Mulawin and news program 24 Oras.

Gozon and the network have reached their goal, but the story is far from over. Gozon’s primary objective is “to stay number one.” He also wants to grow the value of the company to the maximum possible extent.

GMA has recently launched its international channel. Other plans include the expansion of GMA’s nationwide network, the re-launching of its UHF channel, and the raising of P9 billion in additional capital through GMA’s initial public offering in the first quarter of 2005.

Indeed, the story has all the makings of a hit TV series: the network’s rise, the subsequent fall, the hardships, the promise of a better future, and the lead character that steered everyone to triumph against all odds.


(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/love2.gif) GMA NETWORK continues to shine for the Philippines! (IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/love2.gif)

(IMG:http://www2.igma.tv/layout/banner_index.jpg)
What are the major awards GMA received in recent years?
Throughout its more than 50-year history, GMA has reaped countless recognition from local and international award-giving bodies.

Among these are:

No. 2 in Top 20 Taxpayers and Centennial Awardees (awarded in 2004)
2003 Top Realty Taxpayer of Quezon City (awarded in 2004)
US International Film and Video Festival Silver Screen Award for Politics, Government and Civic Category - GMA’s Best: Sa Pusod ng Iraq (2004)
No. 9 Overall, Far Eastern Economic Review 200 Asia’s Leading Companies (2003)
No. 10 Overall, Far Eastern Economic Review 200 Asia’s Leading Companies (2002)
New York Festival’s World Gold Medal for Best Newscast Saksi (2002)
Asian Television Awards’ Best News or Current Affairs Special Saksi sa Kasaysayan (2002)
George Foster Peabody Award for Investigative Reporting (2000)
New York Festival’s Silver Medal for Best TV Documentary I-Witness (2000)
New York Festival’s Bronze Medal for Best News Magazine Program Brigada Siete (2000)
CNN World Report Awards’ Best Medical Story - Brigada Siete (1999)
CNN World Report Awards’ Best Ongoing Story Comfort Women (1998)
New York Festival’s Best Station/Network I.D. (1993)
Recipient of PMPC Star Awards, KBP Golden Dove Awards, CMMA for Best TV Station
(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif) Best Terrestrial Channel of the Year, Asian Television Awards 2005


(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)

This post has been edited by PedroCarvalho: Dec 29 2005, 10:30 PM

[PedroCarvalho]

(IMG:http://www.prague-tribune.cz/2004/7/img/p5_13.jpg)

(IMG:http://logo.cafepress.com/1/10747.73541.jpg) MR. TONY TAN CAKTIONG "World Entrepreneur of the Year"

DAVAO CITY, July 15 Asia Pulse - The local business community here hailed the recent naming of a former Davao restaurant owner-operator as winner of the prestigious "World Entrepreneur of the Year" award this year.

Citing his rise from humble beginnings in this city as "an inspiration to many others who are also striving to be successful entrepreneurs like former Davao businessman and now a global player, Mr. Tony Tan Caktiong, founder and head of Jollibee Food Corporation.

Officers of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (DCCCII), led by its president Sofronio Jocutan and executive director...


(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/love2.gif) JOLLIBEE continues to shine for the Philippines! (IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/love2.gif)

(IMG:http://www.jollibee.com.ph/images/homenew_jfclogo.gif)

Jollibee (PSE: JFC) is a fast food chain based in the Philippines. There are locations in 6 countries around the world, namely Philippines, United States, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Indonesia and Brunei. Jollibee is also the name of Jollibee's mascot, a big bee in a blazer, shirt and chef's hat. It primarily caters to Filipino taste, and has a Filipino as the CEO. It specializes in chicken, burgers, and spaghetti.

The franchise was founded as an ice cream parlor in 1975 by Tony Tan Caktiong. They later expanded to serving sandwiches and spaghetti, and before long the hot meals were outselling the ice cream. The ice cream parlors were converted into dine-in fast-food restaurants named "Jolly Bee". Today it is found in over 900 locations in the Philippines and 29 locations overseas.

Jollibee's inventory control methods take into account the unreliable landline phone network in some portions of the Philippines, and include the daily reporting of sales and profits by store managers via cell phone.

Jollibee's dominance in the Philippine fast food market is undeniable. As of 2001, Jollibee generated P15 billion in annual revenues, which is almost double that of its foreign rival McDonald's (P8 billion).

(IMG:http://www.jollibee.com.ph/images/homenew_jkp_pic2.gif)

(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)

This post has been edited by PedroCarvalho: Dec 12 2005, 12:07 AM

[filipinoy]

(IMG:http://logo.cafepress.com/1/10747.73541.jpg) This LIST of FAMOUS FILIPINAS was taken from Wikipedia.Com, the free online dictionary.(IMG:http://logo.cafepress.com/1/10747.73541.jpg)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teanna_Kai

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaylani_Lei

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charmane_Star

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leanni_Lei

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sabrine_Maui

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kitty_%28porn_star%29

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lily_Thai


(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/biggthumpup.gif) (IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/biggthumpup.gif) (IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/biggthumpup.gif) (IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/biggthumpup.gif) (IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/biggthumpup.gif)

(IMG:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/99/Flag_of_the_Philippines.svg/250px-Flag_of_the_Philippines.svg.png)

(IMG:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/8/83/Philippines_flag_1st_official.png/250px-Philippines_flag_1st_official.png)

(IMG:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/f/fd/Philippine_revolution_flag_kkk1.png)

(IMG:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/c/cd/Philippine_revolution_flag_magdiwang.png)

(IMG:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/5/54/Philippine_revolution_flag_piodelpilar.png)

(IMG:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/5/54/Philippines_flag_original.png/250px-Philippines_flag_original.png)

(IMG:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/6/66/Philippine_coat-of-arms.png)

(IMG:http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/9/96/Phil_president_seal.jpg/200px-Phil_president_seal.jpg)

who wants more flags?

[PedroCarvalho]

(IMG:http://a1512.g.akamaitech.net/f/1512/124/1h/images.ebags.com/img/bios/img_aquino2.jpg)

(IMG:http://logo.cafepress.com/1/10747.73541.jpg) ALEXANDER AQUINO "Mr. International 2001"

After graduating with a degree in marketing, Alex moved to Seattle to start his business career. Next he turned to modeling, which took him to his home country, the Philippines. Soon thereafter, he represented his country as Mr. Philippines, and later, he was crowned Grasim Mr. International 2001 of India's famous International pageant. Finally, on a Christmas holiday back in the states, Alex was approached by his cousin, Gina Alexander, about going into business together-the bag business. With Alex's marketing and business development background, he and Gina created a team. Today, Alex and Gina are taking the business to new heights, and, in his spare time, Alex continues to model and pursue an acting career in Hollywood.

(IMG:http://a1512.g.akamaitech.net/f/1512/124/1h/images.ebags.com/img/bios/img_aquino1.jpg)

As a both a model and a business owner, Alexander Aquino has traveled the globe. He has also gone to a lot of places off the beaten path. Alexander enjoys the sense of adventure this type of travel brings, and appreciates the opportunity to find hidden treasures along the way. But most importantly, he knows the importance of being prepared for anything. Often times, convenience is something you bring with you. So, in his Gina Alexander Personal Photo Messenger Bag, he carries all life's little necessities.

(IMG:http://a1512.g.akamaitech.net/f/1512/124/1h/images.ebags.com/img/bios/img_aquino3.jpg)

(IMG:http://a1512.g.akamaitech.net/f/1512/124/1h/images.ebags.com/img/bios/img_aquino4.jpg)

(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)

This post has been edited by PedroCarvalho: Dec 15 2005, 06:02 PM

[filipinoy]

(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)
(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)
(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)
(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)
(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)
(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)
(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)
(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)
(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)
(IMG:http://img4.picsplace.to/img4/10/pagmalaki.jpg)

This post has been edited by filipinoy: Dec 12 2005, 12:53 AM

[PedroCarvalho]

(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/love2.gif) COMMANDMENT NUMBER 10: As Filipino we should always talk positively of our country and people. Spread the great news about the PHILIPPINES!!! (IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif)

(IMG:http://condomillion.com/images/philippines_flag.gif) (IMG:http://condomillion.com/images/philippines_flag.gif) (IMG:http://condomillion.com/images/philippines_flag.gif)

This post has been edited by PedroCarvalho: Dec 15 2005, 06:05 PM

[PedroCarvalho]

(IMG:http://logo.cafepress.com/1/10747.73541.jpg) JED MADELA AND RIZZA NAVALES
"2005 World Champions of the Performing Arts"

The World Champions of the Performing Arts (WCOPA) in Hollywood , California is considered as the official talent Olympics. It held its annual competition from August 3 to 16. Numerous agents, managers, record label representatives, producers and casting directors were invited to judge the competition.

(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/jedrizza.jpg)

More than 40 contenders from 51 nations joined. Out of the 40 contenders, two Filipinos stood out to be the best. They are Jed Madela and Rizza Navales.

Jed, who won the People's Choice Award and the Best Voice of Asia Male Singer of the Year in the Voice of Asia Song Festival two years ago, won six gold medals in all six categories he competed in and was declared Champion of the World in the Male Singing Division. Rizza Navales won five gold medals and a silver medal in six categories and was declared Champion of the World in the Female Singing Division. Aside from those, the duo bagged Champion of the World in the Duet Category.

The Philippine delegation celebrated their victory in Las Vegas where they watched Lani Misalucha's performance. Numerous talent agents in the U.S. offered them a working contract, but they turned down the offers because they want to cherish their victory here in the Philippines.


To date, Madela has recorded two albums under Universal Records: “I'll Be Around” in 2003 and “Songs Rediscovered” in 2004. He has also had songs published in competition albums, religious albums, and even a Christmas album. He has also garnered the following awards:

2002 – Best Voice of Asia Male Singer, Mainhill Awards
2003 - Voice of Asia International Song Festival, Kazakhastan
2003 - Celebrity Chronicle, Hollywood: Breakthrough Male Performer
2005 - World Championship of the Performing Arts:

Champion of the World, Overall Winner for the Male Vocal Division

Overall Winner for the Duet Division (with Rizza Navales)

Gold medals in six categories for sthe singing category: pop, gospel, Broadway, original, pop duet, Broadway duet


(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)

This post has been edited by PedroCarvalho: Dec 29 2005, 10:25 PM

[PedroCarvalho]

(IMG:http://logo.cafepress.com/1/10747.73541.jpg)
(IMG:http://www.primetime.com.ph/download/poplogo.gif)
POSIBLE
(2005 SEA Games)
Rivermaya

Posible kayang labanan
Ang agos ng paghamon
Mabuwal at madapa man
Sabay tayong aahon

Posible kayang mabura
Alinlangan sa sarili
Ang tapang sa loob makikita
Taglay mo ang dugong bayani

CHORUS:
Sulong, laban, ‘wag uurong
Pakinggan sa iyong puso
Ang sigaw na dati’y bulong

Sulong, laban, Pilipino
Pakinggan sa iyong puso
Ang sigaw na dati’y bulong
Posible

Posible kayang matikman
Tamis ng gintong minimithi
Sa kagat ng bawat laban
Magtatagumpay kang muli

CHORUS

Posible!
Posible!

(IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/cool30.gif) (IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/cool30.gif) (IMG:http://www.asiafinest.com/forum/style_emoticons/default/cool30.gif) Download the song POSIBLE. Be the best Filipino for a better Philippines!

(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)

[bari]

wow.. this makes me very very proud

[flipcombatmedic]

2005 also add the "hey garci scandal"

[PedroCarvalho]

(IMG:http://logo.cafepress.com/1/10747.73541.jpg) JUSTINO ARBOLEDA
"Converting Trash to Cash"

(IMG:http://www.globalpinoy.com/images/gpfeature/justino_arboleda_bg.jpg)

His invention, the "Coconets" (Coconuts for Erosion Control), recently won the World Challenge Competition, a worldwide contest sponsored by BBC.

“World Challenge” is a company based in United Kingdom. The company has an ongoing contest aired in British Broadcasting Corporation and featured Newsweek.

This year’s competition is participated by individuals or groups of individuals from around the world with projects that make a difference in their communities. The competition and the projects that were accepted are intended to inspire others who have the ability to make a difference.

Engineer Arboleda has a degree in Agricultural Engineering and a Masters Degree in Agricultural Engineering from Tokyo University. His educational attainment may be a surefire formula to success – he knew the key to his province’s progress – finding other commercially viable uses for coconut, its principal product. But lack of funds and support from the government has put him on the verge of collapse

Sad Truth

When he was still the dean of Bicol University College of Agriculture, he tried to persuade the government and financing agencies to fund a cooperative to carry out a program that aims to reduce poverty in Bicol. His tool was the “Coconet” project, but sadly, banks and local government agencies that should have helped him found the venture too risky.

Optimism

Just when he was about to exhale his last breath of optimism and confidence, the Canadian government, which funded his initial research, agreed to his joint venture proposal.

With 500,000 pesos on hand, he set up his own company named Juboken Enterprises. He took a leave of absence from the university and focused more on a project that will generate collective growth. For one, 70 percent of Bicol’s arable land is devoted to coconuts, and although the coconut may be considered as the tree of life, Bicol is still among the country’s poorest provinces.

With the sum of money, he bought a truck and made his own decorting machine – a gadget used to extract fiber from the husk.


The Birth of Coconet

Arboleda’s research led him to focus on coconut husk, 12 to 13 billion pieces of which are turned out by the country each year but are mostly justify to rot or burned as waste. Unknown to many, the products boast a wide range of commercial uses, from preventing soil erosion to helping plants grow lush.

Soon he was producing erosion control nets. He first sold his nets to clients in Japan and Germany. Later, developers like Ayala Land, Fil-Estate, Metro Pacific, and the Jaka group took notice.

His first government project, contracted with the Philippine National Oil Corp. in 1998, involved a six-hectare slope that was on the verge of collapsing over a geothermal plant in Leyte. An American company bid 20 million pesos for the project, but Juboken, the Arboledas’ firm, bid six million pesos and bagged the contract. Obviously satisfied with the project results, PNOC remains a valued customer up to now.

The PNOC contract, Arboleda proudly says, provided additional income for around 800 families.

To produce the twine for the nets, Juboken buys husk from coconut farmers, who get all the money for themselves because the landlords generally do not find the husk of great value.

After the husk is processed, the fiber is turned over to farming villages, whose residents weave it into nets. A family can earn up to 200 to 300 pesos a day making the nets in between harvesting seasons – quite a big sum for a coconut farmer who earns an average income of 1,700 pesos a month.

The first village that Arboleda tapped was somewhere in Guinobatan, Albay. Desperately poor, it did not even have a sari-sari store at the time, but today, it has five. Its residents use their own money to buy desks for their school building.

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo honored him in 2004 for his achievement. He also won the gold in the Nature’s Wisdom Award of the World Expo 2005 in Japan and the Global 100 Eco-tech Award. These awards are the country’s first in the 150-year history of world expositions.

What is Coconet?

Coconet is made from coconut coir fiber twine woven into high strength mats. It is becoming popular in shoreline stabilization because of its strength, ecological qualities and biodegradability. It is used as a soil erosion control device. Coconet readily absorbs water. It also builds up soil fertility and unbelievably replenishes lost essential nutrient in the soil.

What Engineer Arboleda did is he made the coconet more useful. He uses it to arrest soil runoff and promote re-greening by protecting vegetative shoots. He designed his own decorticating machine.

While Arboleda developed other uses for the different waste products of coconut in his coconut farm like doormats, stuffing for car seats and mattresses and fertilizer, it is coconet that prevents erosion that has garnered the most demand.

Erosion control nets, made from coconut husk fiber, are ideal for bioengineering. Logically, using Engineer Arboleda’s principle is more feasible since concrete is vulnerable to earthquakes, which means landslide will still be inevitable if an earthquake occurs.

The nets are not only more eco-friendly; they also cost less.

In bioengineering, plants are allowed to grow on bare slopes. Erosion control nets are used to prevent the slopes from eroding while the seedlings have not yet taken root. Nets from coconut fiber, unlike those made of synthetic materials, are strong, absorb water, and stick better to the ground surface, thus giving seedlings a better hold.


(IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif) (IMG:http://img6.picsplace.to/img6/3/philippine.gif)

This post has been edited by PedroCarvalho: Dec 29 2005, 10:34 PM