President Aquino to live in Bahay Pangarap

President Benigno Aquino III is said to move on “Bahay Pangarap” located inside the Presidential Security Group (PSG) compound in Malacañang Park right beside Pasig River. It is just 5 minutes away from the palace. Said one-bedroom resort-like villa will be modified to allow staff to also stay with the president. The building was previously used by former President Gloria Arroyo as a venue to welcome special guests. It has a swimming pool and is near the presidential golf course.

Charice sings the National Anthem @ Quirino Grandstand

The National Historic Institute or NHI applauded the rendition of Charice Pempengco of the Philippine National Anthem during the inauguration of President Aquino. Charice is very happy to know about it. Also, NHI is thankful that Mr. Ryan Cayabyab was present. Cayabyab is pushing through the preservation of the national anthem on its original composition.

Video of "Bagong Pilinas" @ Quirino Grandstand

The inaugural song of President Aquino, Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines), was arranged and composed by Ogie Alcasid and Noel Cabangon. The lyrics are very meaningful and uphold the vision of the new president towards a new Philippines. It was sang by known artists like Regine Velasquez, Gary Valenciano, Jed Madela, Christian Bautista, Mae Paner, Nina, Noel Cabangon and Ogie Alcasid.

Pres. Aquino's Inaugural Address in English & Tagalog versions

As a Filipino I am happy and overwhelmed with how President Benigno Aquino III delivered his inaugural address. First, I appreciated very much that most of it are said in Tagalog. With that the Filipino people well understood his thoughts. I am deeply touched with the good words he said and praying that may his beloved parents and God give him the strength and wisdom he needs to carry out his plans for the Philippines. Thanks God that despite the rainy day forecast of PAGASA for June 30 the weather seems to cooperate on this important and symbolic occasion.

Inaugural Address of President Benigno Aquino III

Possible Aquino Cabinet Members

The people and media wait for the official members of the Aquino government. With the line-up of people to help President-elect Noynoy Aquino on his 6 years governance, Filipinos can foretell the probability of fulfilling Aquino’s promises during the campaign period. Aquino announced the appointments of PAQUITO “JOJO” OCHOA as Executive Secretary and CORAZON “DINKY” SOLIMAN as Secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

POSSIBLE APPOINTMENTS

Former Finance Secretary CESAR PURISIMA – Finance Chief
VOLTAIRE GAZMIN – Secretary of Department of National Defense (DND)
BRO. ARMIN LUISTRO – Department of Education (DepEd)
JIM PAREDES – Tourism Secretary
JOSE “PING” DE JESUS – Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)
FLORENCIO “BUTCH” ABAD – Department of Budget and Management (DBM)
GUILLERMO PARAYNO – Bureau of Customs Commissioner
Naga City Mayor JESSIE ROBREDO – Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) - Update: Aquino might hold this position concurrently.

Kris & James' marriage is over

Will it really be over between Kris and James Yap this time? Kris said that with finality on her part she is comfortable saying that “It’s over.” How about James? The couple is mum about the real reason of their serious misunderstanding for the sake of Baby James. For those who love or dislike Kris, in this point of anybody’s life all we can do is wish them well and hope for the best (couple and kids). Love is mysterious that it can move mountains and give miracle to those who embrace it.

Kris Aquino: My marriage to James is over (transcript)

1st death anniversary of Michael Jackson

It was on June 25 of 2009 when the world was shocked by the news about the death of famous American singer Michael Jackson. He suffered cardiac arrest at his home at Holmby Hills neighborhood in Los Angeles, California. On August 28, 2009, the Los Angeles County Coroner declared his death a homicide caused by the combination of drugs in his body.

Together with millions of his fans around the world, I commemorate as well his death. Personally, he is a good example to me that not money either fame can truly give us the true happiness in life. We could see in his life many things: money, fame, friends, luxury, addiction and troubles. But apart from that, he is a battered kid that despite money and fame the missing puzzle in his life has never been found till his death.

Newest Maguindanao Massacre witness surfaced

The newest witness on the “Maguindanao Massacre” that surfaced is no other than a trusted assistant of former Maguindanao governor Andal Ampatuan Sr. DOJ will validate the testimonies of Lakmodin “Laks” Saliao. Laks surfaced after learning that he and another attorney of the Ampatuans are planned to be killed by hired killers to silence them.
Prior to Laks appearance was the killing of a probably strong witness in the case in the name of

Suwaid Upham or “Jesse” who appeared in the TV network Al Jazeera. He was scheduled to return to Manila to become state witness but he was shot dead in Parang, Maguindanao last June 14.

DOJ to cross-examine new Maguindanao massacre 'witness'
Triggerman in Maguindanao massacre killed

Bagong Pilipinas: Aquino's inaugural song

“Bagong Pilipinas” (New Philippines) will be the inaugural song on June 30 when President-elect Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III will swear in as the country’s 15th president. The song was composed by Ogie Alcasid and Noel Cabangon. There are 10 singers chosen to sing the said inaugural song and they are Ogie Alcasid, Jim Paredes, Mae Paner, Nina, Christian Bautista, Noel Cabangon, Gary Valenciano, Regine Velasquez and Jed Madela. The singers will be backed up by Symphony Orchestra, 70sBand, the Madrigal Singers and Kunderana.

Charice Pempengco on Glee

It’s official. Charice Pempengco will be included in the second season of “Glee,” an American musical television series. Although Charice denied at first said issue, she’s also the one to confirm her inclusion after Glee’s management called her for an audition. Thanks to the rumors! It reached America and let her audition for the show. Charice will play the role of a foreign exchange student whose killer vocals get lead star Rachel contemplating murder.

Congratulations Charice!

Charice's camp: We never lied about 'Glee' audition

Kris & James Yap marriage on the rocks again

The controversial and high-profile couple, James and Kris Aquino-Yap, is undergoing marital woes again. Kris’ dear friend and manager Boy Abunda confirmed the issue and said it could be the most serious incident. It even resulted for Kris to leave their house together with the kids.

I just hope and pray that the couple can work it out. I dislike Abunda’s disclosure on the issue besides it’s between couple. Marital problems are only between couple and privacy must be given to them for the sake of the kids.

James Yap reacts to reports on marital woes
Kris Aquino's marriage on the rocks again

Transcript of President Arroyo's farewell address

I have just seen part of outgoing President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s farewell address to the nation. When I saw the transcript on the net it was quite long. What I heard was her congratulatory message to the president-elect Aquino and vice-president elect Binay. She also mentioned her beginnings as president of the land and her achievements. You can check the link below for the complete transcript of her farewell address.

President Arroyo's farewell address

LP & Roxas block Binay's Cabinet posting?

Will Vice-President elect Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay get a Cabinet post? Since the proclaimed winners for the president and vice-president positions came from different parties, rumors said that Liberal Party and Senator Mar Roxas are blocking Binay’s Cabinet posting. But the concerned parties deny the rumors and said that only president-elect Noynoy Aquino has the final say.

The Philippines is in big financial trouble. People are longing for a big change to improve lives. President-elect Aquino was right when he said that we need to work hand in hand for our dream Philippines. Looking for people to fill different Cabinet positions is indeed a tough job but emotional factors must be set aside also in doing so. Besides, Binay was elected by millions of people waiting for a kind of public service he rendered in Makati.

Willie Revillame appeared on PO5

The hard-headed Willie Revillame strike again. Despite the agreement of Revillame and ABS-CBN that he is not allowed to appear or perform from a competitor of the network still Willie made a surprise appearance on another network’s musical variety program. He appeared as a special guest of actor John Estrada during the taping of the special episode for Estrada’s birthday celebration. According to the report, the “Wowowee” on-leave host performed 2 song numbers and distributed cash to studio audience.

Party on Five (PO5) is a cross between “Wowowee” and “ASAP XV” as it will offer big prizes. Ryan Agoncillo, Lucy Torres, John Estrada, JC de Vera, and Alex Gonzaga host with Jan Nieto and Rainier Castillo.

John Lloyd Cruz & Shaina Magdayao special relationship

Finally, John Lloyd Cruz admitted the real score between him and Shaina Magdayao in “The Buzz” during an interview with Boy Abunda. “Yes, it’s us.” The simple answer given by JLC to Abunda to end up all the intrigues, positive and negative, regarding the rumored relationship. It’s been said that John Lloyd is the reason behind John Prats and Shaina’s break up and on the other hand Shaina is the third party behind John Lloyd and Ruffa splitting up.

John Lloyd Cruz finally admits relationship with Shaina Magdayao
Vina Morales happy for Shaina, John Lloyd

Charter gives 8GB iPod Touch this Father's Day

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Charter. All opinions are 100% mine.

Father’s Day is a special day for all the wonderful daddies around the world. It is a day where we give back to our beloved daddies appreciation of everything he has done for the family especially the gift of life. Aside from being dad as an authority figure and provider, he is a true friend that no matter what happens, in bad and good times he will always be there for his children.

Want to make this Father’s Day really special for your dad? Then here’s a way I am sure every dad would love to have. Charter has special deals this Father’s Day. One, you can get a gift card to The Home Depot or other retailers worth up to $300 when you bring home one of Charter’s best bundles. The second deal is that there will be 100 winners of an 8GB iPod Touch to be given away. There is no purchase necessary to have an entry in the contest. So hurry! Enter now to win an iPod Touch that you can give as a gift to your beloved father.

Charter, by giving away these iPod Touches, will show its new mobile app for iPod, iPhone and Blackberry. The world of Charter will touch the lives of these 100 winners with their new mobile app. Let your dad discover charter services like movies, news, sports, weather and many more. For more information on Charter app visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MwjlzSsK6sU&feature=player_embedded.

Remember! You can get updates, fun extras, and facebook only deals on Charter’s Facebook page. So what are you waiting for? Grab these Charter special deals and let daddy feels so special this Father’s Day.

Inspirational Father's Day Quotes

He didn't tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it. ~Clarence Budington Kelland

Dad, you're someone to look up to no matter how tall I've grown. ~Author Unknown

The greatest gift I ever had Came from God; I call him Dad!
~Author Unknown

It is easier for a father to have children than for children to have a real father.
- Pope John XXIII

"I cannot think of any need in childhood as strong as the need for a father's protection." -- Sigmund Freud

Father's Day graphics

To my dad who just passed away last June 10 wherever you are HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

To my wonderful husband, brothers-in-law, uncles and to all dads around the world enjoy the special day.

Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 signed

The Department of Social Works and Development (DSWD) has signed the implementing rules of the law granting senior citizens the full 20% discount. Republic Act 9994 or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010 will be published on June 21 and will be implemented by July 6. Senior citizens by then will be exempted from the 12% discount or the VAT allowing them to fully enjoy the 20% discount on essential goods and services including food, medicines, professional fees of doctors, laboratories, funeral expenses, etc.

June 30: Aquino's inauguration declared as special non-working holiday

The inauguration of President-elect Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III on June 30 was declared a special non-working holiday by the Malacañang. Outgoing president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo made the declaration for the inauguration of the 15th Philippine president. It will be held at Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park (formerly Luneta) in Manila and the traditional transition of powers will be followed. Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and House Speaker Prospero Nograles will read the proclamation.

The said inauguration is expected to be simple but star-studded since the incoming president’s sister, Kris Aquino-Yap, is in the showbiz world. Among the celebrities to be present on June 30 are Ogie Alcasid, Regine Velasquez, Gary Valenciano, Martin Nievera and Apo Hiking Society. There will be a street party to be held at the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City at night.

I lost my beloved father

After several days from being absent blogging I am back. Actually I am still not in good condition because my beloved father died last June 10. He got stroke last June 7. His brain stem blasted 8:30 in the morning in our store and he was sent to the nearest San Juan Medical Hospital. He was with mom when this unfortunate thing happened. When I learned about it I immediately travel to Manila from Montalban, Rizal to look after tatay (father). He was unconscious when I saw him lying in the hospital with these breathing machine and ECG monitor. I really can’t help but cried as I whisper words in his ear. I asked him to fight for his grandsons and granddaughters.

After his CT Scan he was transferred to St. Martin de Porres Charity Hospital. My elder sister has a doctor friend there and we wanted what really our father’s condition. It was late night of that Monday when we learned from that doctor that our father was “clinically dead.” I never thought that it will be that fast and still hopeful that he will recover from it. The world seems to tumble and so much tears have fallen. I can’t help but asked God why?

My heart and my mind are still in denial. I don’t know when I can be able to recover from the deep pain I had from losing my beloved father. But I am still trying to be strong for my family and for mom. I hope that God will give us enough strength to move on and that he let tatay visit us often.

Tatay wherever you are I wanted you to know that we love you so much and we miss you terribly.

Direct Hiring Scam in Italy

Filipinos who want to work in Italy are being warned against this so-called “Direct Hiring Scam.” The Philippine Overseas Labor Office or POLO cleared that the Direct Hiring 2010 in Italy is only for domestic helpers and caregivers and not for seasonal workers. Italy Labor Attache Chona Mantilla said that there are people asking 500,00-600,000 pesos to those people who want to work in Italy where in fact a scam. Seasonal workers is a short-term contract employment like farm jobs or more on agriculture, and summer job vacancies like working in hotels, restaurants and resorts.

Pinoys warned vs direct hiring scam in Italy

Gretchen's wardrobe malfunction

“Magkaribal” is the newest and much-awaited teleserye of ABS-CBN to hit primetime. The show features the love trio of Gretchen Barretto, Derek Ramsay and Bea Alonzo. Aside from the emerging word war between Gretchen and Derek’s real life girlfriend Angelica Panganiban, the recent wardrobe malfunction accident during the shoot hit the news. The 80,000 gown of La Greta was accidentally eaten by the wheel of a moving motorbike being driven by Derek.

Gretchen gets almost naked during taping

Delicadeza over midnight appointments

There are more than 200 appointments made by President Arroyo just days before the 60-day ban on appointments prior to elections took effect. The ban would have been in effect on March 10 since May 10 is the Election Day. Nearly all of these over 200 appointments allegedly considered as “midnight appointments” by the president’s critics were accepted by the appointees.

Well then what’s the big issue on these so-called midnight appointments? I guess if Malacañang speaks of its legality, the critics and the people is looking the issue of “delicadeza.” In no time at all the Philippines will have a new president and I think a great gesture to welcome the incoming leader of the land is to give him a free hand to choose his cabinet members.

There are people who still have delicadeza like Anita Carpon (Gloria Arroyo’s personal manicurist) and Teresita Sy Coson (daughter of Henry Sy – owner of SM) who both declined the appointments. The much-awaited thing to wait for is will those appointees who accepted their respective appointments offer their courtesy resignation or will they abide by such controversial appointment?

To all appointees who accepted the appointments the true answer lies within you because such issue is so easy to deal with an open mind and pure heart.

Arroyo issues midnight madness of appointments
Arroyo makes last-minute appointments, says ex-CSC chief
Manicurist, billionaire’s daughter, decline midnight appointments