2011: THE YEAR IN REVIEW

2011 has indeed captured the world’s attention with its shocking, gruesome, and sometimes heart-warming, news headlines. This year, we were at awe with the catastrophes which struck various parts of the world, wondered at the amazing show of People Power in the Arab World and other countries, and dazed by the death of some of the most prominent personalities in world, both sinister and iconic. We also worried at the continuing crisis gripping the world’s economy and had our share of smiles and joyful laughter at the most sensational wedding of the century. Here are my TOP 10 NEWS STORIES OF 2011. 

NORWAY MASSACRE: No Mercy

10. Norway Massacre and Bombing 

This massacre and bombing which killed 69 people shocked this quiet and peaceful nation and the world. Perpetrated by a 32-year old, right-wing Christian extremist Anders Breivik, the massacre and bombing exposed the religious intolerance some groups in Europe harbour against non-Christians and their supporters. It proved that Muslims are not the only one capable of terrorism. 

KIM: Loved till the end

9. Death of Kim Jong-il 

With just about every dictator falling from power or dying this year, North Korean leader Kim Jong-il won’t be left behind. Before the year closed, he met his Creator after suffering a heart attack while on routine visit to the countryside. His death triggered alarms throughout the Korean Peninsula for fears of a looming power vacuum after the perceived lack of readiness of his heir-apparent Kim Jong-un. His wake and funeral gave the world a glimpse of what it was like inside the secretive state which has isolated itself since the 50s. Despite the lavish lifestyle he lived, while remaining blind to the plight of his hunger-stricken and rights-deprived people, his funeral was attended by throngs of North Koreans, many of whom were forced to cry out of fear from the regime. 

JOBS: A genius loved by many

8. Death of Steve Jobs 

While dictators fell one by one, the world also lost a genius this year. Apple co-founder and CEO Steve Jobs finally succumbed to his long and painful fight against pancreatic cancer. This renaissance man of the computer industry introduced us to many of the indispensible and life-changing gadgets we now use from the Macintosh computer, the iPod, the iPhone, up to the iPad. Not only did he make a gadget that is sleek, good-looking and profitable, he made sure that his consumers get the most out of his products. And thus, the world loved him for all the endeavours he’s done to change the way gadgets and humans interact. 

GADDAFI: Hated till death

7. Death of Muammar Gaddafi 

Justice has been served in Libya with the death of long-time dictator Muammar Gaddafi – in a chilling and gut-wrenching way. The Libyan people, whose rights he has deprived and maligned for over 40 years, have liberated themselves from his clutches and surrounded him on all sides with international help. It was poetic justice when they found him begging for his life in a sewer in his hometown of Sirte, as the rebels shot him and displayed his body to the crowd, all while videotaping the incident. The world was witness to his horrifying end via YouTube and sent a chilling message to all other dictators in the Arab World. 

WILL & KATE: Sweet and cheesy!

6. The Royal Wedding 

Amidst the violence and bloodshed brought about by the Arab Spring, we were greeted with lovely news of Prince William’s marriage to commoner Kate Middleton. The British heir to the throne married his long-time beau at Westminster Abbey in London and was witnessed by 162 million people around the world via television broadcast and the Internet. The world blushed at the sight of the Royal Couple as they kissed twice for the public at Buckingham Palace. After the tragic end to the marriage of Prince Charles and Princess Diana in 1997, the world had a new romance to look forward to. 

WASHI: Washed away everything in its path.

5. Wild Weather Disasters 

The irreversible effect of global climate change has created a series of destructive weather events in different parts of the globe since the start of the year. The United States braced for a series of tornados which hit Joplin, Missouri. Southeast Asia was hit by consecutive typhoons leaving large areas of the Philippines, Vietnam and Thailand flooded. The Horn of Africa was devastated by its worst drought in decades causing a huge humanitarian crisis amid the threat of Islamic extremism in the region. And before the year ended, the Philippines was hit once more by tragedy, after a relatively weak tropical storm continuously poured torrential rains on Northern Mindanao, inundating the cities of Cagayan De Oro and Iligan, resulting in the loss of almost 2,000 lives.

BIN LADEN: Nowhere to hide

4. The Death of Osama bin Laden

Our atmosphere of merriment brought about by the Royal Wedding was quickly quenched by news of the death of America’s most wanted man: Osama bin Laden. The Al Qaeda leader and mastermind of the September 11, 2001 Attacks in New York and Washington DC, was killed by US Special Forces in his secret lair in Abbottabad, Pakistan on May 1. His death came as a surprise as there were no indications that bin Laden was hiding in plain sight in one of Pakistan’s most affluent communities. Doubts were cast on the authenticity of the report which was broadcast to the world by President Barack Obama. In the end, video and photographs of the raid were shown to key people in American government which led to a confirmation of his death. His body was laid to rest according to Muslim rites in an undisclosed location in the Arabian Sea.

RECESSION: Tore holes in our pocket.

3. Global Economic Crisis

2011 saw the continuation and worsening of an economic crisis which started in the United States around 2007 or 2008 by the bursting of the US housing bubble and the decline of US and European banks and other financial institutions. This year, the economic crisis worsened unemployment in America and brought Greece, Portugal and Ireland into a recession which needed a difficult intervention from other European Union nations. The recession in Europe threatened the demise of the euro and of the Union itself but was saved temporarily by diplomacy among member countries. In 2012, the crisis will still continue and who knows what problems it will unfold for the world.

THE ARAB SPRING: An awakening

2. The Arab Spring Revolutions

The end of 2010 saw the beginning of an awakening of Arab societies in Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, Syria, Yemen, Bahrain and other Arab nations in North Africa and West Asia. It began in Tunisia when a fruit vendor, discontented by the lack of job opportunities in his countries set himself on fire. His sacrifice turned into a national cry for justice and reform which spread to other neighbouring countries with the help of social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and blogging. A new breed of young, educated Arabs led the battle cry which resulted in the toppling of respective dictatorial regimes in Tunisia, Egypt and Yemen. In Libya, the revolution turned into an all-out civil war which involved Western forces who supported the rebels; while in Yemen, the revolution resulted in a power transfer deal between President Ali Abdullah Saleh and the Gulf Cooperation Council. In Syria, the despotic President Bashar Al-Assad continues to resist opposition to his rule by using violence against protesters. The revolution there still continues to unfold.

JAPAN: Triple Disaster

1. The Japan Earthquake, Tsunami and Nuclear Disaster

On March 11, 2011, in the midst of our cacophony over the revolutions in Tunisia, Egypt and Syria, the eastern seaboard of Japan was struck by the most powerful earthquake it felt in recent years. The 9.0 magnitude earthquake destroyed buildings in the Tohoku region and created a huge tsunami which devastated various cities along its coastline. The world was awed, and at the same time, gripped with fear, as the tsunami’s onslaught on Japanese cities was broadcasted live in television. The tsunami created panic in other countries as it spread to the Pacific Rim (but left only little damage). Our fears were taken to the highest levels once news of the crippling and eventual meltdown of the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant came. For the second time, the world was made aware of the chilling and deadly effects of nuclear radiation. This nuclear crisis left Fukushima and its surrounding region permanently contaminated and forced the evacuation of thousands. But in the midst of the disaster, the world also witnessed the resilience, calm and cooperation of the Japanese people. Slowly, we saw how they came to terms with what happened to them, stood up and rose up from the ashes of this tragedy.

With all that happened during 2011, we are left with a great deal of anxiety and anticipation for things to come in the New Year. There are those who believe that 2012 will usher in a new era of cataclysmic disasters and crisis that will lead to ultimate end of the world. There are those who dismiss such claims and continue to have hope on the human spirit to solve and weather these catastrophes. Whatever may happen in 2012, whether human society will come to an end or continue to prevail, may the spirit which enabled us to endure our wonderful and sometimes weary existence remain with us always.

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

MANILA KINGPIN: THE UNTOLD STORY OF ASIONG SALONGA (THE REVIEW)

Even before it was shown in theaters on Christmas Day, the Metro Manila Film Festival movie MANILA KINGPIN: THE ASIONG SALONGA STORY was already making showbiz headlines -- not because of its good reviews from critics --- but by a feud between the film's director Tikoy Aguiluz and its producers. According to Aguiluz, the producers and the lead actor, Governor E. R. Ejercito (a.k.a. George Estregan Jr.), had re-shot and re-edited some portions of the film and also did changes to film's score. The famed director has filed suit against the producers in the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines for violation of Republic Act 8293, and has also requested for his name as director to be removed from the film's credits and advertisements. I saw these changes reflected after seeing the film this afternoon.

I anticipated this film due to the fact that the story of Asiong Salonga is one which has eluded my historical knowledge for a long time, and also due to reports that it is going to provide some fresh look on Philippine action cinema (being shot in neo-noir style and directed by Aguiluz). Knowing Philippine action cinema to be full of clichés (such as womanizing heroes in lead roles with a bunch of goofy friends/henchmen, sinister antagonist also with a bunch of goofy henchmen, lead actors who seem to be bullet proof until the film's climax, and all that), I was expecting something better from Asiong.

For a cliché Philippine action film, this is a good one. I could say its way better than the films made by Ramon "Bong" Revilla or Robin Padilla in the 90s and early 2000s because of two things: the cinematography and musical score. Being shot in black and white and in high quality helps a lot for the film to be nominated Best Picture in the MMFF. The slow paced action scenes (especially between Salonga and Pepeng Hapon in the rain) really had me at awe. It almost looked as if its in 3D. The musical score is also new and remarkable for a Pinoy action film, although, the use of Tears for Fears' Mad World at the closing fight scene really surprised me a bit (Governor Ejercito must be really a fan of the song), but I think it had a good effect on that scene.

However, in terms of story, it still retains what's cliché in Philippine action films. Turong Pajo shoots the entire Salonga gang, and yet they still survive even as bullet holes went through the drinking table. Salonga's policeman brother (played by Philip Salvador) gets shot by Totoy Golem's men through the plastic sheeting and still survives. The timeline was a bit sketchy as noted by my surprise upon seeing Fidela Salonga (played by Carla Abellana) having first to third child in no time, or by the fact that Jaycee Parker was also another of Asiong's flings without the audience knowing when and how. I didn't even notice that Vice Ganda was in the film (a comfort gay in the bar Asiong frequents, apparently). I also feel that Governor Ejercito and Carla Abellana (and even Jay Manalo as prison mayor) are not a match in terms of age (the real Salonga was 27 at his death). It's either both Carla and Jay should be replaced with actors closer to age with the governor, or the other way around. 

The story was not faithful to actual accounts as well; while Salonga was indeed a rabid Liberal Party sympathizer, it was not mentioned that the actual circumstance behind his death was his sudden change of allegiance to the Nacionalista Party ("Gang Rivalvry Ends the Career of Toughie". The Manila Chronicle. October 8, 1951). While Ernesto "Erning Toothpick" Reyes was indeed the one who assassinated the kingpin, the film portrays Salonga's disappointment and Reyes' removal from the group as the catalyst towards the former's death. I am also disappointed that the production company opted to hire a Thai stunt coordinator when we have a lot of Filipino martial arts experts who've worked in Hollywood films before.

Governor Ejercito, in an interview with Boy Abunda in Bandila last December 23, announced that the film will herald the return of "quality action films". In terms of innovation, I agree with the governor; but in terms of story, not quite. In the end, the film reminds me of the original 1961 Asiong Salonga starring Joseph Estrada, but instead of a Thompson M1928, Asiong -- with the same cliché kingpin attitude -- uses a Heckler & Koch 41 to rain fire on his enemies (if you know what I mean). But who knows, the film can be a test case for more quality Filipino action films to come. With veteran directors Tikoy Aguiluz and other, and a promising breed of talented Filipino actors and actresses, we have something to look forward to. TSS

LUTONG PACQUIAO?

UNFINISHED BUSINESS? The latest Pacquaio win is controversial.
Photo courtesty of  Chris Farina

With the results of the latest Marquez-Pacquaio fight out, we expected that this "Unfinished Business" would be put to rest. But as the judges gave a decision which favored Pacquaio, looks like Marquez will still have something to complain about in the next coming months. Even Filipinos are convinced that while Manny won Sunday's bout, it wasn't the best fight he'd given throughout his career. Some are even convinced that Marquez won being the more aggressive of the two. Reports are out that Bob Arum fixed the match for various reasons which will no longer be mentioned.

The majority decision given by judges Dave Moretti, Robert Hoyle and Glenn Trowbridge are as follows: 115-113 | 114-114 | 116-112 respectively (in favor of Pacquaio). Also, the stats from the bout's Compubox shows that Pacquiao landed more jabs (59-38), and more power punches (117-100), compared to Marquez. Pacquiao landed a total of 176 punches compared to Marquez's 138. There should be no doubt that Manny won this fight fair and square even if he wasn't able to knockout Marquez.

And yet, Filipinos are still unconvinced. They see the latest Pacquaio win as a Pyrrhic victory. After all, we are so used to Manny being able to knockout his opponents in the early rounds of each fight. But we got to give Manny and the judges the benefit of the doubt. Considering his age, and the preparation of his opponents, let alone the determination of Marquez to win, Manny would really have a hard time knocking him out. Whether he knocked him out or beat him in the scorecards, one fact remains, Manny fought hard to win this fight. Isn't that what boxing is all about?

Nevertheless, while Pacquiao won this fight fair and square, the era of Manny Pacquaio performing in the way he performed in his earlier years is almost to an end. Definitely, it will be harder for him to knockout his opponents in his coming fights considering his age and the wear and tear to his body. There is another fight left for him to finish, which I think would be more exciting to watch. And that is if he could deliver on his promise to win the fight against poverty. I'd be more prouder if he does that. TSS 

THE NEW PECKING ORDER IN EDUCATION

I went to a university in Cavite today to accompany a cousin in getting entrance exam results. In the queue leading to the enrollment fees counters, I saw at least two Koreans (from what I've overheard in their conversations, yes they are Koreans), one is a teenage boy and his mom, the other a teenage girl with a her mom and a Filipina interpreter. Seeing them forced flashbacks into four months ago last year, when I was still teaching at an international school in Manila. Two-thirds of the school is composed of foreign nationals, half of which are Koreans.

That flashback soon moved fast-forward to last week when I was in a prestigious college in Manila known for its specialization in technological education. On a poster on the wall of the security office, the repackaged goals of the college are spelled out in acrostics. One of the new goals is to attract foreign students in the school.

No doubt, these schools are a few of the best in this country. They have the best programs in the fields of disciplines they are offering, coupled with good educational infrastructure and technology, as well as a formidable academe of brains and talent. These are but a few testaments to how good the quality of education is in the country. Or at least in the private sector.

WHO SHOULD BE THE PRIORITY IN OUR EDUCATION SYSTEM? THE LEFT OR THE RIGHT?

I am beginning to worry though what will be left for ordinary Filipinos. Yes, we have the best brains in education here in the Philippines but who are they serving? They are serving a foreign clientele. Before I use to worry of the exodus of Filipino teachers to work abroad and teach a foreign clientele. Now, its the other way around. It's the clientele who is arriving here to reap our fresh, tender, and quality education.

Think of mangoes. Before mangoes are being exported to be eaten by foreign mouths. Now, as mangoes ripe attached to its tree, foreign invaders attack and eat it before it's picked. This is the new pecking order in education in the 21st century.

And so, even though these brains have yet drain abroad, they are already being drained here in our own land, leaving none to a young generation of Filipinos hungry for knowledge, skills and values their motherland should be giving them.

I pity these teachers. How could they allow their fruits to be devoured by foreigners first? I am aghast at these private schools. How could they condone such practice? I hope they realize we are at the losing end here. I am disgusted by our immigration officials for allowing this influx of foreigners to go on without much of a screening. I am disgusted at our government for prioritizing servitude to invaders instead of service to fellow Filipinos.

I am not the only disgusted by this. I am sure, out there, there are more. But they are not just disgusted; they could be even worse. Who knows? One day, these disgruntled, disenfranchised youths could be going inside these schools, going on a killing spree of these foreign invaders. I pray and hope we don't get to that worst-case scenario.

And so before worse comes to worst, I sure hope the country's educational planners could give time to rethink the direction of the educational development of schools in the country, both public and private. Our goals should be directed inwards, not outwards; towards our own development and not of others. I hope there would be a control as well in the traffic of foreigners going to our country. The less of them we have here, the more we can focus on strengthening ourselves.

IMPLICATIONS

In the last five days, from April 27 to May 1, we've been experiencing a massive information overload. All over the Internet and on TV, even in our mobile phones and tablet devices, we are being fed with too much information on the biggest current events of our time -- the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton, the beatification of Pope John Paul II, and more recently, the death of Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden.

I'm sure you are all fed up like me. In this Information Age, we Filipinos are asking, how do these events relate to our lives. Are there any implications? Allow me to help you connect what these all means to us.

THE ROYAL WEDDING

The biggest headache from this weeks headlines came from the Royal Wedding. Everywhere on TV, news channels are bragging about their sole coverage rights to the event, or about scoops they got from people who were able to get close to the royal couple. On Friday, the day of the wedding itself, over 4 million Filipino households tuned in to the Royal Wedding. To think were not even British, how is this possible? How come an event that has too little significance in our lives could get so much attention?

The reasons vary depending on which social class a viewer comes from. For the elite or middle class, the obvious reasons for watching the event is to keep up with pop culture and the culture of extravagance. It is an opportunity for them to catch new fashion trends, manners and etiquette, to maintain carrying that elite or middle class demeanor. But what about for the poor Filipino masses?

Well, its is an opportunity to take flights of fantasy -- to experience for 5 hours what its like to be in the position these royals hold. It also reflects their own aspirations for a better life in the future -- aspirations that are better achieved through hard work than 5 hours of watching coverage. But for the poor people who are already breaking backs just to work their way out of poverty, watching the royal wedding on TV is simply one way of looking for relief from daily sacrifice and labor.

In the end, the common denominator that binds all social classes in watching the Royal Wedding is our value for true romance. We could all agree at some point that the romance of Will and Kate is something that we all dream of -- passionate, persistent, shining and shimmering -- this is the kind of romance which 4 million Filipinos still dream of. No wonder why.

THE BEATIFICATION OF POPE JOHN PAUL II

Filipinos love personality cults. In fact, we've made an industry out of it -- Jose Rizal, Ferdinand Marcos, Ruben Ecleo Sr., Felix Manalo, Fernando Poe Jr. and many more. Since time immemorial, Filipinos have been in search of people to look up to, people who will serve as their leader and role model. These idols, as I would like to call them, serves a guiding compass in our own actions, aspirations, even morality.

The late Pope John Paul II is not spared for our penchant for idols. Perhaps he even wanted to become one. It was indeed his mission in life to be a role model of good Christian living to everyone. But Filipinos tend to go overboard with its veneration of people, that even the most irrelevant of things, when made part of that person's life, can become an instant relic and source of inspiration. Thus, a table napkin in a Chinese restaurant will definitely draw in hundreds of parishioners wanting to have their own piece of papal experience.

The way I see it, Filipinos have little self-esteem and more for other people. Hence, our penchant for idols. We tend to see more good in others than good in ourselves that in the end, we tend to ignore the possibility that we can be our own role model. However, once our idols have failed us, instead of looking inward, we move on to another person to idolize.

Pope John Paul II wanted to people to follow his example, not worship him, the same way Jesus Christ did. His beatification only sends a message to us all that like him, we can all live blessed lives, not just in Heaven, but here on Earth.

THE DEATH OF OSAMA BIN LADEN

The death of Osama bin Laden is "a victory of morals" as Maria Ressa said. And I agree.

It is not a victory for the War on Terror, the war is far from over. President Obama is right in saying that "justice has been done for the innocent victims of 9/11", but its not justice served to all victims of terrorism. Osama bin Laden has successfully created a franchise out of terrorism and hatred and exported it worldwide, that soon everyone is feeling its brutal backlash and reeling from its effects. Filipinos can say that we are not in any way affected, but it cuts right in the heart of our values. After all, we have our own terrorists to take care of.

The direction of the War on Terror must turn from that of destruction to forgiveness and reconstruction. We must all forgive Osama bin Laden for what he has done to us and close this chapter of the war. People should all turn their sights on countering Bin Laden's franchise of terrorism and hatred by creating their own franchise based on love and compassion -- love for self, for fellow people, for country and God (whichever God we believe in, as well as values of tolerance, respect, mutual trust, understanding and many more.

The War on Terror both here at home and abroad can score a final victory, not by firing more shots in the head, but by embracing the hearts of these angry men and women with love.

PINOY STARS WHO DIED YOUNG

Here in the Philippines, there's nothing more sensational than personalities dying young. Whether they're big or small actors, they make headlines. Soon, fitting tributes happen in their respective home networks. These networks make a business of showing people that this talent was indeed loved, not just by the network but by the masses. People flocked to their funerals and collected mementos and other fan memorabilia. Up to this day, some of these actors attract visitors to their niches, signifying their undying fandom.

Since Pinoy stars who died young are very much a fancy here in our country, I've decided to make a little research on some of these stars, how they died and how the public reacted to their death.

Vega: The Dying Star/GMA Network

JULIE VEGA (1968-1985)

Julie Pearl A. Postigo in real life

This two-time FAMAS Best Child actress was well-known for her roles in films such as Mga Mata ni Angelita and Durugin si Totoy Bato, as well as her popular role in the TV drama Anna Liza. Aside from her acting career, she is an accomplished singer too, having released an album entitle First Love. At the height of her career in 1985, the young actress started showing symptoms of a lingering disease which is suspected to be multiple sclerosis. While undergoing treatment for the disease in Quezon Institute, the actress contracted broncho-pneumonia which would complicate her condition. On May 6, 1985, the actress died of cardiac arrest as a result of her broncho-pneumonia. She was 16.

At the time of her death, Anna Liza was being shown in GMA Network which considered at the time as one of the most popular soap operas in the Philippines. Her death left the storyline of the show incomplete and she left behind an unfinished acting and singing career. Filipino,s who have followed her career and who have loved her so much, were shocked of her death they even flocked to her funeral procession going to Loyola Memorial Park in Marikina City. Vega remains today as the first and one of the country's soap opera princesses.

Yan: Died in his sleep/Star Magic

RICO YAN (1975-2002)

Ricardo Carlos C. Yan in real life

Rico Yan is perhaps the most famous of all the stars who died young. He died at the height of a full-blown acting and modelling career with home network ABS-CBN. He was made famous by the network for his boy next door roles in soap operas such as Mara Clara and Mula Sa Puso as well as the teen-oriented show Gimik. He also had notable appearances in films such as Ama, Ina, Anak, Home Along The Riles 2, Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay and Got 2 Believe, where he was nominated for FAMAS Best Actor award.

Yan died at the Dos Palmas Resort in Puerto Princesa Palawan on March 29, 2002. He was 27. He died in his sleep due to cardiac arrest as a result of acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis (more commonly known in the Philippines as bangungot). At the time of his death, he was in a relationship with actress Claudine Barreto, who was his love team partner in most of his movies, but most especially in Mula Sa Puso, a soap opera which had a great following among Filipinos at that time. Like Julie Vega, his death also shocked the nation and created a cult following, mostly propelled by tributes made by ABS-CBN using various media and coverage of his wake and funeral at Manila Memorial Park.

Sotto: The Falling Star/GMA Network

MIKO SOTTO (1982-2003)

Marcelino Antonio C. Sotto in real life

The country has hardly recovered from Rico Yan's death a year before when reports of Miko Sotto's death made headlines. Although not as popular as Rico Yan, Miko Sotto has made a name for himself as a bankable teen actor during his career at GMA Network. He comes from a long line of Sottos, his parents being Maru and Ali Sotto (the brother of Vic and Tito) and is a cousin of Oyo Boy Sotto (Vic's son). He became popular in GMA Network's teen oriented programs such as Click! and Kahit Kailan and had a relationship with Click co-star Angel Locsin at the time of his death.

Miko died before dawn on December 29, 2003 as a result of falling down from the ninth floor of the condominium building where he lived in Mandaluyong City. He was 21. He was apparently sitting on the balcony of the floor talking with cousin Oyo and other friends when he slipped and fell down. GMA gave the young actor a fitting tribute and his eyes were donated by girlfriend Angel Locsin to a needy patient who needed a new set of eyes.

Cielo: Never woke up/GMA Network

MARKY CIELO (1988-2008)

Mark Angelo C. Cielo in real life

Marky Cielo (or Boknoy to his family and friends) is considered as one of the Good Boys of Philippine Showbiz. Throughout his career at GMA Network, he seldom figured in showbiz scandals and was most remembered for his stunning win as Starstrucks's First Sole Survivor and as the first known Igorot actor in the industry. Raised by his single mother in Bauko, Mountain Province, Cielo's rise to stardom began while studying architecture at Baguio City's St. Louis University. There he became part of the dance troupe and was immediately known for his good dancing skills. Friends in turn persuaded him to join Starstruck and the rest was history. His Starstruck landed him an exclusive contract with GMA Network, Php 1 million, a livelihood package and a house and lot in Antipolo City. He has since appeared in many of the network's programs such as FantastiKids, Encantadia, Asian Treasure, Zaido: Pulis Pangkalawakan, Sine Novela: Kaputol ng Isang Awit and LaLola. 

Despite his good boy reputation, his death is shrouded in mystery and controversy due to the network rivalry that ensued during his wake and funeral. Cielo died in his sleep on December 7, 2008 of what was apparently acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis (the same case as of Rico Yan). He was 20 at the time of his death. However, there was a lot of speculation on the true nature of his death, with some saying it was due to suicide or drug abuse. The speculations became even more widespread when GMA Network blasted rival ABS-CBN for airing footage of what was supposed to be a private wake for Cielo. In the end, both networks decided to respect the privacy of Cielo's family and the speculations died down. Cielo was buried at the backyard of their Mountain Province home as customary in the Ibaloi tribe.

Perez: Accidental Death/Star Magic

AJ PEREZ (1993-2011)

Antonello Joseph Perez in real life

His career hasn't even reached its height but already fate has cut short AJ Perez's life. Perez is one of ABS-CBN and Star Magic's promising talents and had the similar boy-next-door appeal such as Rico Yan and Marky Cielo. He first appeared in commercials before being launched as part of Star Magic's Batch 13. He has since graced television shows in the Kapamilya network such as Abt Ur Luv, Lobo and Agua Bendita as well as in movies such as Kasal, Kasali, Kasalo, Sakal, Sakali, Saklolo and Ang Tanging Pamilya. His last major TV appearance was as the lead male role in the afternoon soap opera Sabel opposite teen actress Jessie Mendiola.

Perez died on April 17, 2011 as a result of car accident in Moncada, Tarlac. The night before, Perez was one of the stars who graced the Bangus Festival in Dagupan City, Pangasinan together with other Kapamilya stars. He was on his way back to Manila together with his father and few others when their van got hit on the side by a speeding Partas Trans bus. Perez was sleeping on the side of the van that was directly hit by the bus and died of his injuries. He was 18.

Both Kapamilya, Kapuso and Kapatid stars where shocked of his death that it soon made headlines in major newscasts in all three networks. On the same day, ABS-CBN variety program ASAP Rocks! made a fitting tribute to the actor in remembrance of his short-lived career.

Perez: The Troubled Star/ManilaGuy

TYRON PEREZ (1985-2011)
Jojo Perez in real life.

Tyron Perez was part of the first batch of potential artists in GMA 7's Starstruck search in 2003. While he did not win in the search, it was enough to launch his showbiz career. He has since appeared in other GMA 7 shows like Bakekang and Lupin. After the death of his long time handler, Douglas Quijano, Perez' career slowed down. This forced him to transfer to rival network ABS-CBN in the hopes of kick-starting his career once more. In ABS-CBN, he appeared in soap operas such as Momay, Mula sa Puso and regularly appeared in Maalaala Mo Kaya. He also appeared as the lead actor in a film about macho dancers in 2006 entitled Twilight Dancers. Perez married his long time non-showbiz girlfriend who is a flight attendant.

Perez was reported to have had problems with his wife recently. He died on December 29, 2011 in an apparent suicide inside his car in Valenzuela City. His wife, family and friends in showbiz were shocked at his early demise. His death occurred on the death anniversary of another Kapuso star, Miko Sotto (see above), and marks the second time that a Starstruck member has died on a December, the first being Marky Cielo in 2008 (see above).

Postscript: My condolences to all the fans, friends and family of Tyron Perez. May his soul have eternal repose in heaven with our Lord.

SOURCES:
ABS-CBN News, GMA News Online, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Philippine Entertainment Portal, and the Internet Movie Database

7 MUST VISIT HOLY SITES FOR THE METRO PILGRIM

Pilgrimage is a Catholic tradition that has been tightly embraced by Filipinos since the Spaniards introduced Christianity in the country in the 15th century. For a devout Catholic, the remembrance of Holy Week or Semana Santa will not be complete without a visit to his/her favorite shrine or pilgrimage site. But with rising oil prices and the scorching heat brought about by rising temperatures this summer, some are thinking of forgoing their planned pilgrimages to far provinces such as Pangasinan or Cebu. Some are considering making their remembrances simple and sacred at the comfort of their own homes.

But worry no further. I have a list here of Holy Week destinations that are within reach of Metro Manila. They're accessible and cheap on the budget and are truly worth experiencing.

MONTEMARIA

Brgy. Amuyong, Alfonso, Cavite

Mary statue at MonteMaria

This healing center and Marian shrine is situated just a few miles from Tagaytay City and an hour’s trip from Metro Manila through SLEX. The healing center is a mecca for the disabled and sick who wish to be healed by the miraculous hands of Father Fernando Suarez. It features a huge convention center where healing masses are held, stores of various religious items that you can easily get blessed and a large garden of various flowers and Marian statues. The site is not yet complete, as the proprietors are still planning to construct a 33-storey statue of the Holy Mother on top of the mountain where the site is situated.

KAMAY NI HESUS

Brgy. Tinamnan, Lucban, Quezon

Christ's statue in Kamay ni Hesus

This is the home of another healing priest and humanitarian, Father Joey Faller. Like the previous destination, Kamay ni Hesus is situated on the slopes of a mountain, Mt. Banahaw, which adds to the place's mystical and divine status. There are healing masses of course, but if you are not into such kind of spiritual healing, you can tour the site which features a 50-foot statue of Jesus Christ, 14 life-sized Stations of the Cross and a huge replica of Noah's Ark complete with sculpted stone animals. Kamay ni Hesus is roughly two to three hours by car or bus from Manila via SLEX.

NATIONAL SHRINE OF THE DIVINE MERCY

Brgy. Sta. Rosa I, Marilao, Bulacan

The Cathedral at the Divine Mercy Shrine

This is one of two Divine Mercy Shrines in the Philippines (the other is in El Salvador, Misamis Oriental). The shrine is complete with various facilities to feed one's hungry soul: 14 Stations of the Cross, an Adoration Chapel, a Retreat and Pastoral Center, and a basement chapel dedicated to the Our Lady of Guadalupe. It even has a Little Poland Exhibit which showcases the life of two prominent Polish religious figures -- Pope John Paul II and St. Maximillian Kolbe. The shrine is a comfortable one and half hour drive from Manila thru NLEX.

PINK SISTERS CONVENT

Brgy. Maitim, Tagaytay City, Cavite

The Adoration Chapel at Pink Sisters Convent

Aside from its trademark feature of nuns clad in baby pink habits, this Marian shrine which is just a few miles from Tagaytay City proper, is also popular for its miraculous prayer intercessions? Presidential candidate Gibo Teodoro went here when he and his wife were just a couple and asked the sisters to pray that he be wed to Ms. Prieto. And it worked! I'd bet my 2 cents that somewhere out there, there is someone with a similar experience. Anyway, aside from fulfilled prayers, the convent also has a large and colorful garden, a small Stations of the Cross, a life-size statue of the Virgin Mary and a souvenir store which sells Cloister Cookies made by the nuns themselves. However, since this is a convent, the nuns are very strict in silence so this isn't definitely the place for a large group of pilgrims. The convent is just an hour's drive from Manila via Aguinaldo Highway or SLEX.

OUR LADY OF LOURDES GROTTO

Brgy. Gaya-Gaya, San Jose Del Monte City, Bulacan

The Lourdes Grotto in Bulacan

The Lourdes Grotto of Bulacan is localized version of the original grotto in Lourdes, France where the Virgin Mary made an apparition to Bernadette Soubiroux in 1858. From the cathedral to the cavernous grotto itself, the complex is an exact copy. And like the original, the site also claims miraculous healing to pilgrims who have visited there. Other features of the site includes a Stations of the Cross nestled in 14 man-made hills, a giant rosary which said to be the biggest in the world, and picnic areas and children's playground for families going to the site. However, expect the area to be more crowded than usual due to its popularity and accessibility to Metro Manila pilgrims. The Grotto is just 30 minutes to an hour's drive from Quezon City via Quirino Highway.

NATIONAL SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF PEACE AND GOOD VOYAGE
Brgy. Sta Cruz, Antipolo City, Rizal

The Shrine of the Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage in Antipolo

You wouldn't go to Antipolo just for cashews right? A visit to the city would not be complete without touring the National Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage. The shrine attracts travellers, particulary OFWs who would liked to be blessed by the Virgin Mother before they go on a trip abroad to avoid bad luck and drug couriers. Being one of Antipolo City's tourist attractions, expect the roads leading to it to be jampacked on Holy Week (the pilgrimage starts on the way to the shrine!). Don't forget to buy cashews and other pasalubong just outside the cathedral before heading home. Without traffic, its just an hour away from Manila via Sumulong Highway.

This Holy Week, never let a good spiritual experience pass, whether it be an arduous pilgrimage or a short visita iglesia to your local churches. It's not just about getting to various places or admiring the scenery, its also about remembrance our imperfections as human beings and striving to look inside ourselves to conquer such imperfections through God's guidance.

JAPAN QUAKE: HOW TO HELP

AP/Kyodo News

In the wake of the devastating catastrophe which shook Japan on Friday, help is starting to pour in this embattled nation. Hours after the quake, the United States has pledged its support for Japan by sending two of its naval assets, the USS Blue Ridge and the USS Ronald Reagan. It has also sent coolant to assist Japanese nuclear experts in alleviating temperatures at a damaged nuclear power plant. In the coming days, the United States is expected to pour in financial aid while the American public has already mobilized efforts to gather financial aid and supplies for quake victims.

Other countries have followed suit as well. Russia and China set aside its disputes with Japan and has expressed their sympathies and pledges of help. Russia's Emergencies Ministry is sending a six aircraft with doctors, emergency personnel, sniffer dogs and a mobile hospital. The Chinese Red Cross has offered 1 million yuan in emergency aid and has sent a fully-equipped emergency response unit to the country. 45 other nations are also on their way to sending assistance to Japan either in financial aid or search-and-rescue teams.

We Pray for Japan wristband/Lady Gaga webstore

Even Hollywood stars are joining the bandwagon to help. Pop star Lady Gaga has designed and released a special prayer bracelet which fans can buy for $5.00, all the proceeds of which will go directly to Japan relief efforts. Other stars have tweeted their support and sympathies for the Japanese people such as Glee star Lea Michele, country music star Taylor Swift, rapper P. Diddy, and pop stars Katy Perry and Justin Bieber.

For those who want to help Japan in anyway they can in the wake of this disaster, here are some organizations you can contact: 

THE RED CROSS. All Red Cross and Red Crescent Organizations around the world are on alert since the quake happened Friday and are ready to receive donations. In the United States, you can simply use your mobile phone to donate $10.00 by texting REDCROSS to 90999. You can also go online to donate. In the Philippines, you can also go online to donate of text RED<space>AMOUNT to 2899 (Globe) or 4483 (Smart)

SALVATION ARMY. The Salvation Army has been operating in Japan since 1895. As of the moment, they are only accepting financial contributions as in-kind donations are difficult to ship. For US residents, you can simply text JAPAN or QUAKE to 80888 in order to donate $10.00. You can also call 1-800-SAL-ARMY or go online to donate. In the Philippines, you can donate to Salvation Army by calling (02) 524 0086/88, Fax: (2) 521 6912 or Email: saphl1@phl.salvationarmy.org 

INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL CORPS. For 25 years, the IMC has a long history of responding to natural disasters in over 50 countries including the 2004 Indian Ocean Earthquake, the 2005 Pakistan Quake and the 2010 Haiti Earthquake. For US residents, you can donate to IMC by texting MED to 80888 from your mobile phone. You can also go to the IMC website to donate.

SHELTERBOX. The UK-based aid organization specializes in providing portable housing units in times of natural disasters. It is also sending a Shelterbox Response Team to Japan to assist in sheltering survivors. To donate to Shelterbox, visit their website.

For Filipinos who are worried for their loved-ones in Japan, the Department of Foreign Affairs is sending a consular team there to assess and assist in the condition of OFWs. For a list DFA Emergency Numbers that you contact for information on Filipino in Japan, visit this link. News agency GMA News has also set up a Person Finder Service for those looking for missing persons.

Supermoons: A Recipe for Disaster?

Courtesy of AP/Dmitry Lovetsky

The Internet has been buzzing with searches and posts about these "supermoons". What exactly are these supermoons and how are they related to the recent 2011 Great Sendai Earthquake.

WHAT ARE "SUPERMOONS"?

Astrologer Richard Nolle defined in 1979 that a "supermoon" occurs when a new or full moon is at or near (within 90 percent of) its closest approach to Earth in a given orbit. Supermoons occur four to six times a year, and the latest this year will occur on March 19, 2011 in the aftermath of the Great Sendai Earthquake on Friday, March 11.

While the moon does have an effect on our planet, what could be the potential adverse effects of supermoons?

Conspiracy theorists and apocalyptic events geeks are speculating that supermoons have triggered natural disasters such as earthquakes in the past. One evidence they site as proof is the coinciding of the magnitude 9.1 Indian Ocean Earthquake in 2004 with the January 10, 2005 supermoon. 

Rich Briggs, a research geologist for the US Geological Survey, stated, "The gravitational pull of the moon creates Earth tides and sea tides and causes portions of the Earth's surface to bulge." However, he also clarified that, "The moon does not need to be invoked to explain what caused this event. There are much simpler explanations."

According to the US Geological Survey, the 2011 Great Sendai Earthquake was caused by pressure created by the subduction of the North American Plate under the Pacific Plate. The area where the quake happened is indeed a hotbed of tectonic activity and it is very unlikely that the earthquake and its subsequent tsunami was caused by an impending "supermoon".

To 2012 conspiracy theorists and apocalyptic scenario geeks out there, "I'm sorry but the world is too far from ending the way you hoped so."

Sources: The India Scanner, Seattle's Big Blog and AccuWeather

Japanese porn star is safe from quake

Netizens react to the magnitude 8.9 Great Sendai Earthquake today, filling various social media sites with a variety of content.

One interesting stream of comments involves Japanese porn star Maria Ozawa.

Facebook and Twitter were filled with queries regarding the welfare of this well-known Japanese porn star. Comments flooded her Facebook page with comments such as "I hope you're okay", "Please save her!". One Facebook user has confirmed that she is "safe and alright".

The 25-year old porn star with French, Canadian and Japanes blood is known in the porn industry as one of the most perfect porn star due to her exotic looks and kinky demeanor. Here are some of the comments from her Facebook fan page.

Famous Pinoy Suicides (2001-2011)

Suicides are not uncommon in the Philippines. A lot of Filipinos have resorted to this means of death due to depression, substance abuse and other various reasons. And with the recent suicide of former AFP Chief Angelo T. Reyes, let us look back on other suicide cases which captivated the imagination of the Filipino public.

Maria Theresa Carlson (2001)

Maria Teresa Gerodias Carlson was Miss Young Philippines 1979 and went on to represent the country in the Miss Young International Pageant in Tokyo on the same year. Her pageant fame landed her a showbiz career which led her to appear in the hit sitcom Chicks to Chicks with the trio of Joey De Leon, Tito and Vic Sotto.

Carlson's road to suicide began in 1982 when she married Rodolfo Farinas. Her marriage to the Ilocano politician attracted media attention due to allegations of physical and sexual abuse suffered by Carlson in the hands of her husband. In 1996, she appeared in the investigative program Probe to detail claims of abuse she suffered. Farinas reportedly subjected her to water torture and other forms of physical abuse.

Carlson ended her life on November 23, 2001 by jumping from the 23rd floor of her Greenhills, San Juan condominium.

A.R. Santiago (2003)

Alexander Robert Santiago is the youngest son of Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago.

The aspiring law student from the Ateneo Law School committed suicide on November 20, 2003 by shooting himself in the neck inside his room at the Santiago residence in La Vista, Quezon City. The young Santiago was reportedly depressed about not being admitted at the University of the Philippines College of Law after failing the subject on Constitutional Law. He was also asked embarrassing questions about his mother's alleged "insanity" and his father's gambling activities during his application interview at UP, an event which really bothered the young Santiago up to the day of his suicide.

Teddy Borlongan (2005)

Teodoro C. Borlongan was the last president of the now-defunct Urban Bank.

During his presidency, Urban Bank was closed by the Bangko Central ng Pilipinas for failing to meet withdrawals. The bank was placed under the receivership of the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation and eventually merged with ExportBank in 2001. Meanwhile, Borlongan and his associates faced allegations of estafa and economic sabotage for their role in the bank closure.

Reportedly distraught by his colleagues' betrayal during the bank mess, Borlongan committed suicide on April 11, 2005 at the Loyola Memorial Park in Marikina, in a car parked near his parents' grave by shooting himself in the head. Six years later, Angelo Reyes would emulate his style of suicide.

Rod Strunk (2007)

Roger Lawrence Strunk is the principal accused in the murder of veteran Filipino actress Nida Blanca in 2001. Strunk and his co-accused Philip Medel reportedly stabbed Blanca to death inside her parked car in Greenhills, San Juan. Strunk moved to the United States to escape prosecution in the Philippines and successfully fought extradition requests by the government.

Prior to Blanca's murder and his suicide, Strunk was a television actor and singer in the US during the 60s. Strunk met Blanca in the US in 1979 and relocated with her in Manila after their marriage.

Strunk ended his life by jumping at the 2nd floor balcony of his hotel in Tracy, California on July 11, 2007.

Trina Etong (2009)

Trinidad Arteche Etong was the wife of veteran ABS-CBN broadcaster Ted Failon.

Etong's suicide in 2009 was very sensational with both ABS-CBN and GMA following the story to the detail. Etong was found dead in the bathroom of their home in Quezon City due to a gunshot wound in her head. Initially, police suspected murder with Ted Failon as the prime suspect after police found out that the broadcaster tampered with the crime scene. However, further investigations cleared Failon of charges.

Etong reportedly took her life due to undisclosed financial problems.

Angie Reyes (2011)

Angelo Tomas Reyes was the Chief-of-Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines during the Estrada Administration (1998-2001). His withdrawal of support for Estrada was a pivotal moment in the 2001 EDSA Revolution which put Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo into power.

His loyalty to the Arroyo administration earned him various positions in the government, serving as secretary to the Department of Interior and Local Government, Department of Defense, Department of Environment and Natural Resources and Department of Energy. In the 2010 Philippine Elections, Reyes attempted to run as a party-list representative for the transport group 1-UTAK but was dropped by his party members after being disqualified by the Comelec. In 2011, Reyes was accused of being involved in large scale corruption in the Armed Forces during his time as Chief-of-Staff. He reportedly received as much as Php 50 million in "send-off" money during his retirement. In the subsequent Senate inquiry on the issue, Reyes was embarrassed by the accusations made against him by some senators which led to his depression.

Reyes committed suicide by shooting himself in the chest in front of his parents' grave at the Loyala Memorial Park in Marikina City on February 8, 2011.

GMA News TV: Pwede Na!

This is the only thing I can say about the line up of shows presented by GMA for their upcoming News TV, which is an all-news channel to be launched starting February 28. While the programs are not yet at par with that of CNN, BBC or even ChannelNews Asia, it does edge a little bit closer with ANC and will definitely give Aksyon TV a run for its money. Let me put in details my impressions about the programming:

News on Prime Time. Keeping news updates at the prime time slot on TV is not really a surprising move since it is what kept News on Q from rating as well as the primary objective of the channel. However, I can't feel a bit nauseous about the idea of Brigada (hosted by Jessica Soho) and State of the Nation (aslo hosted by Soho) in the same prime time slot. If we are to have Jessica Soho in prime time for two hours, I would say its quite nakakaumay. I hope they considered retaining the old News on Q anchors Rhea Santos and Ivan Mayrina.

News to Go. I like this idea of fast-paced, mobile news. I just hope they really go full steam ahead on this to the level of really maximizing the technology they have in their hands. I hope to see interactive maps, touchscreen display of news and information, more savvy presentation of Tweeter and Facebook feedback, and state-of-the art weather and traffic reports. GMA is a trendsetter in the use of technology in broadcasting. Better live up to its name.

Simulcast. I've been watching Teleradyo and RHTV and I have to say the two are light years away. Teleradyo has these cool graphics interface for the news. They have nice studio sets and program graphics. I hope The simulcast programs like Dobol B sa News TV goes way beyond that. It will also do GMA a lot of good if they switch to digital signalization for radio.

Talk Shows. They took out Tonight with Arnold Clavio which is one of my favorite shows in QTV. With a little facelift, that show could've been at par with CNN's Piers Morgan Tonight or BBC's Hardtalk. Biographical sketch shows have also been taken out such as True Stories and Reunions (which I think is really doing great public service and very unique to TV). There were good shows in QTV that they took out.

Stuffed with Food. If they don't take away Sarap At Home (hosted by Sam Oh), I will be totally disgusted at how News TV will saturate viewers with cooking shows. Quickfire is just enough. (Thank God, they removed Delicioso, My Favorite Recipes and the likes). This is an all-news channel, not a lifestyle channel. Better if they transfer Sarap At Home to GMA 7 itself.

GMA News TV logo

Drawbacks. The two biggest drawbacks of News TV perhaps is its failure to deliver business and tech news. When I first heard about it, I was really hoping that channel would deliver business and tech news that the masa audience would understand and relate to. I think GMA should have considered these themes too and not just relied on ideas that they think would rate. The reason why most people in this country doesn't really relate to business and entrepreneurship is because they don't have programs on TV that helps them understand those subjects. I challenge GMA to come up with these programs in the long run of News TV.

In the end, its too early to tell. GMA is a very progressive news organization that is always open to innovation, new trends in the industry, and of course, feedback. I will definitely be watching News TV with quiet anticipation that my suggestions will be considered. After all, basta sa pagbabalita, GMA lang ang mapagkakatiwalaan.

GMA News TV Channel 11 starts airing on February 28, 2011. Dahil Oras-oras, Alam ko!

Spotted: Manny Pacquiao's "Crib"

8-time, pound-for-pound, boxing champion and Saranggani congressman Manny Pacquaio's Los Angeles home has been featured in MTV Cribs show this February. He is the first Filipino to ever come out in the show and the first time the public will be getting a glimpse at his "humble" abode. The plush LA home located in the Hancock Park neighborhood of the city is reportedly worth $2.3 million dollars according to Yes! Magazine. It has two-storeys, four bedrooms, and backyard swimming pool. In the episode, Pacquaio eagerly tours the crew around the house, showing off the various rooms and its furniture -- all in his trademark carabao English. Fruits of his profitable boxing career are clearly seen in the video, with Pacquaio affording a really posh dining table, a stylish bathroom and custom-built bedrooms designed to match his children.

You can see more of the video below:

Botcha Solutions!

"Magkano ang kilo nito?"

Botcha naman oh?!

Everything seems to be botcha these days. Double dead hog meat, double dead chicken meat, even carnapped cars. Haha!

But you know, I have these really cool suggestions on how people can make use of double dead meat instead of selling it to unsuspecting consumers. I am sure these suggestions, once followed, won't land you in jail and could even be potential sources of thousands (even hundreds of thousands) of bucks! Haha!

Here are some creative solutions to botcha problems:

Dog food. Delicious. Try one!

1. Animal Feed
Poultry farms can earn lots of bucks by processing this double dead meat into cooked animal feed. Can it, brand it, plus with a good marketing ploy, botcha can give Alpo and Pedigree a run for its money. You might be worried that its unclean, but a thorough cooking process can destroy all sorts of pathogens in botcha, including E. Coli and Salmonella. In fact, if the meat is really clean and did not die because of disease, you can sell and use it in raw feeding pets. Raw feeding is a practice that’s becoming popular among pet owners these days as it helps in pets’ dental health and prevents regenerative disease (Pottinger, 1995) compared to cooked meat.

2. Organic Fertilizer

"Want me to stuff this in your face?"

Now if you’re still having doubts about using botcha as animal feed, turn it into compost and make it your cash cow! Stuff all the botcha meat in a grinder, put it in a cement mixer or a rotating drum, mix with garden soil and a tablespoon of your generic decomposing agent (available in all fertilizer stores), give it a good rolling and boom – in a few weeks you have compost that you can sell to farmers, gardeners and plant hobbyists. Not only good for the plants but good for the environment too!

To those crooks smuggling botcha in our markets, I suggest you make an industry out of botcha through these two suggestions I gave. Save yourself the media exposure and the jail time!