2015-12: December

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Bradford Adkins, 'SCENES In The City' is a widely read Filipino-American community column in San Francisco since 2008. Online, it is being globally read by more than 174 countries. The column features include: the issues and events, the individuals and organizations moving the community.

PHOTO/CAPTION

Fil-Am Jennifer Cabalquinto, the Chief Financial Officer of the 2015 NBA Champion Golden State Warriors narrates to the media her recent Washington, DC history making trip experience and self-discovery.

THE NBA WARRIORS’ CFO IS PINAY

by Richard C. Lao, CPA, MSMOT

SEEN IN THE CITY

(OAKLAND, CA) – "Success is measured by the children you leave behind," that’s what my Dad used to say when we were young, says Fil-Am Jennifer Cabalquinto, the Chief Financial Officer of the 2015 NBA Champion Golden State Warriors during the Filipino Heritage Night in front of the selected credentialed Fil-Am media, presented by Cache Creek Casino Resort, last Saturday, November 14 against the Brooklyn Nets at Oracle Arena (the Warriors won in overtime). Currently, the Warriors tied with 1948-49 Capitols and 1993-94 Rockets’ best start in NBA history for its unbeaten 15-0 record wins.

Looking at Cabalquinto standing in the middle of it all – in the basketball arena, one can’t help but think the other noteworthy women in other male-dominated fields, like soon-to-be US President Hillary Clinton and HP Former CEO Carly Fiorina, who overcame gender boundaries to take positions of greater responsibility. In Cabalquinto’s case, looking at where she is now – she also successfully overcame race limitations here in the US.

Fresh from her Washington, DC participation as the official representative of the Golden State Warriors in the first ever Filipino Heritage Month Celebration event, she capped her trip as very memorable and rewarding. “On a personal level, there were so many highlights on my DC trip. I think the relationships that we were able to forge as a community. It's such a huge honor to be among the approximate thirty (30) or so people chosen to be a part of that historical event. I remember sitting in the auditorium; and there were a number of well-known panelists – like the White House Executive Chef, Fil-Am Cristeta Comerford. I was overwhelmed with pride and joy. I kept thinking about my parents. For me, the very first thing that I did after the event concluded, was to call my mom and dad. I came to this country when I was four years old. And everything I got today I got from my parents. It all came together for me. And that experience is a validation. It was really just being able to reconnect and tie my roots together,” she recalled almost in tears.

For the first time across the NBA, the Warriors celebrated Filipino Heritage Night by wearing special edition Filipino Heritage Night shooting shirts before Saturday’s game. Philippines Today Newspaper’s official media representatives,Bradford Adkins and this writer were met early on by Warriors’ Official Corporate Communications’ Massimo Degaudenzi at the gate and served as the official escort from start to finish. He gave us a personal tour of the Oracle Arena and ushered us in to the exclusive media-only private rooms. He escorted as every now and then during the breaks to the courtside to take a closer look at the players to take better quality photos.

Fans were able to purchase the Filipino Heritage Night shooting shirts at the Warriors Team Store location inside Oracle Arena or at warriorsteamstore.com. In addition, fans had the opportunity to purchase a limited edition Filipino Heritage Night knit hat.

A limited number of tickets remain for the eighth-annual Filipino Heritage Night. Fans who purchased a special event night ticket secured a seat in the Filipino Heritage Night section and received a commemorative Warriors “Kampeon” t-shirt, courtesy of Cache Creek Casino Resort. The Warriors also featured unique cultural entertainment throughout the night at Oracle Arena, including a halftime performance by the American Center of Philippine Arts.

As part of the celebration, the Warriors hosted a Filipino Heritage Night pregame tailgate, featuring popular Filipino food trucks as well as live entertainment with DJ Romeo Reyes. During the pregame tailgate, fans had a chance to take a photo with the 2015 Larry O’Brien NBA Championship Trophy in Parking Lot A outside of Oracle Arena.

Tickets are now available for a second Filipino Heritage Night on Friday, March 25, 2016 against the Dallas Mavericks. Fans who purchase a special event ticket will receive a commemorative Filipino Heritage Night giveaway and enjoy unique cultural entertainment.

Fans interested in attending this season’s second Filipino Heritage Night on March 25 should visit warriors.com/Filipino Heritage for more information.

For more information on the Golden State Warriors 2015-16 season, presented by Kaiser Permanente, visit warriors.com.

Is there any chance at all of having the PBA Players playing here in an exhibition game or even the Warriors going to the Philippines for a game? “I hope so. I would love to send the Warriors in the Phils. We have such a strong rabid basketball fan base there. I was on a recent trip to Vegas and my cab driver asked me why don't we (the Warriors) go to the Philippines. Yeah it would be great. I believe that the 2nd oldest league is the PBA. It would be great if that could happen,” Cabalquinto closes the privilege media talk.

This article also appears online at www.eManilaMail.com, www.ScenesInTheCity.com, and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/ with readership in 174 countries now (& still counting!) according to the latest Google Analytics report.

Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to richard_ariz_lao@yahoo.com

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FRONT PAGE - MEDIA RELEASE

THE AGONY OF DEFEAT. Miss Colombia openly grieves for her dethronement (wait, she never really was the winner!) as Miss Philippines and eventual 64th Miss Universe winner, Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach tries to console her by offering to return back the crown, to no avail. Photo credited to the owner

TAKE 2. 2014 Miss Universe Paulina Vega of Colombia finally crowns the rightful winner of this year's pageant, Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach of the Philippines (making her our country's 3rd Miss Universe!) during last Sunday's most controversial episode when Host Steve Harvey got confused and announced the wrong winner - Ariadna Gutierrez of Colombia. Photo by MUO

“I DID NOT TAKE THE CROWN FROM HER,”

by 64^TH MISS UNIVERSE WINNER PIA WURTZBACH

by Bradford Adkins, MSCIS

(LAS VEGAS) – The winner takes it all! Miss Philippines, Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach bested 80 other girls last Sunday night, December 20, 2015 at The Axis Theater inside Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas marred by several controversies – Host Steve Harvey erroneously announcing Miss Colombia as the winner (well, she’s actually the runner up), Miss Germany badmouthing the Filipina win, and equally headline-grabbing killing (and accident injuring 37) outside the venue just right after the event. ‘Scenes In The City’ was there inside the venue in Vegas when loud boos follow the Miss Colombia proclamation – mostly from disappointed Filipino pageant fans.

"To be a Miss Universe is both an honor and a responsibility I will use my voice to influence the youth and I will raise awareness to certain issues and causes like HIV awareness that's timely and relevant to my country which is the PH. I want to show the world or the universe rather, that I am confidently beautiful with a heart," quipped a very nervous Wurtzbach to the final singular Top 3 question, ‘Why should you win as Miss Universe?”

I did NOT take the crown from her (Miss Colombia). Like the other candidates, I also want to win, “Wurtzbach answered Reporter Elton Lugay of Inquirer.net during the post-vent media press conference, on how she felt during the tense moments when she was erroneously declared runner up and immediately after that as the 64^th Miss Universe.

It was revealed in a podcast interview later by Judge Perez Hilton, that Wurtzbach was ranked Number 1 in all of the judges’ score cards! Meaning, she won unanimously. Meaning, Miss Colombia never had a chance to wear the crown last Sunday.

As this year’s Miss Universe TRUE winner, Wurtzbach will get an array of glamourous prizes only a pageant girl (and Miss Colombia Ariadna Gutierrez) could dream of - a year-long salary as Miss Universe; luxury accommodations in a New York City apartment for the duration of her reign, including living expenses; a one-year scholarship from the New York Film Academy College of Visual Performing Arts; a one-year supply of haircare products and tools from CHI Haircare; a new custom diamond tiara and jewelry designed by D.I.C; a shoe wardrobe from Chinese Laundry Shoes; swimwear by Yamamay; a year's worth of skincare products from Image Skincare; personal services including membership to Gravity Fitness at Le Parker Meridien Hotel and hair services from John Barrett Salon; modeling portfolio by leading fashion photographer Fadil Berisha; dermatology and skincare services provided by Dr. Cheryl Thellman-Karcher; professional health and nutrition consultation by Tanya Zuckerbrot, MS, RD and dental services by Dr. Jan Linhart, D.D.S.; professional representation by The Miss Universe Organization; extensive travel representing sponsors and charitable partners; access to various New York City events including casting opportunities, movie premieres, screenings, Broadway shows and launch parties; and personal appearance wardrobe and styling by the official Miss Universe Organization fashion stylist. Eat your heart out, Miss Colombia!

Thank you, Pia for the best Christmas gift ever to the Filipino nation – for bringing back home the Miss Universe crown (after Gloria Diaz and Margarita Moran wins in 1969 and 1972). After 42 very long years!

Miss Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach of The Philippines graced the post-event Miss Universe media conference in Planet Hollywood, together with MUO President Paula Shugart. Photo by Dion C. Trinidad

FRONT PAGE - MEDIA RELEASE

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Contacts: Call Bradford Adkins at (925) 550-6805 or

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Send email to Richard Lao at Richard_Ariz_Lao@yahoo.com

For more details, visit

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Concerts/Theatre

THE BEST PINOY CHRISTMAS FAMILY FUN OFFERING AT THE MOVIES!!!!

For the first time ever in Philippine cinema history,

TFC@theMovies will release in U.S. and Canada

the official entry of ABS-CBN Star Cinema & Viva Films

to the 2015 Metro Manila Film Festival

on December 25, Christmas Day!!!

Nasa Pilipinas man o sa North America, “Beauty & The Bestie”

ay darating sa sinehan ngayong Pasko!!! Tara na, Kapamilya!

For a complete theater listing in North America,

visit https://www.tfc-usa.com/batb/

TFC YEARENDER SPECIAL FROM BALITANG AMERICA

ABS-CBN North America News Bureau Chief Paul Henson

and his Balitang America team of Henni Espinosa, Don Tagala & Steve Angeles

with anchors Gel Santos-Relos and Rommel Conclara

deliver the biggest stories of 2015 that impacted the Filipinos in U.S. & Canada

in the much awaited year ender special executive produced by Troy Espera

CARLO KATIGBAK APPOINTED PRESIDENT AND CEO OF ABS-CBN CORPORATION

ABS-CBN Corporation announced the appointment of Carlo L. Katigbak as its new President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) effective January 1, 2016.

Charo Santos-Concio will continue to serve the company as Chief Content Officer, President of ABS-CBN University, and Executive Adviser to the Chairman. Eugenio Lopez III remains theChairman of the Board of ABS-CBN.

Katigbak has 20 years combined experience in financial management and business operations, corporate planning, and general management.

Lifestyle Network sprinkles joy into the holidays with a celebrity cookbook giveaway

Join the Hungry for More promo for a chance to win the Curiosity Got the Chef cookbook by Chef Sharwin Tee

Starstruck: The Final Judgment airs this Saturday

Out of thousands who auditioned and numerous artista challenges, GMA Network’s original reality-based artista search Starstruck has finally named its Final 4. And on its Final Judgment this Saturday, only two contestants will remain and claim the title of this season’s Ultimate Male and Female Survivor.

Who will emerge victorious and be named as the Ultimate Male Survivor? Will it be Bacolod’s betMigo Adecer or the proud Cebuano Elyson de Dios? In every test, Migo makes sure that each performance is a big step towards his lifelong dream. This Saturday, Migo is all geared up to show off his talent, “This is my moment to prove my edge in the finals. I’m a performer at alam ko kaya ko talaga [and I know I can do it]. I will be able to put on a good show and put up a good fight.”

“My Bebe Love” goes to Cebu and Davao

Christmas came early for Cebuanos and Davaoeños as the cast of the Metro Manila Film Festival entry “My Bebe Love: #KiligPaMore” visited the region for the movie’s promo tour.

The romantic comedy stars Vic Sotto and Ai-Ai Delas Alas, together with Alden Richardsand Maine “Yaya Dub” Mendoza.

“My Bebe Love” is AlDub’s first-ever film together, following the unprecedented success of the phenomenal love team in Eat Bulaga’s Kalyeserye.

Because of You brings together Carla Abellana, Rafael Rosell and Gabby Concepcion

GMA Network brings to primetime television Because of You, a light-hearted romantic series, now airing onGMA Pinoy TV.

This inspirational drama is about love, family and parenting, its joys & challenges.

Because of You is headlined by Carla Abellana as Andrea, Rafael Rosell as Oliver and Gabby Concepcion as Jaime.

Carla is excited about her latest project and the privilege of working with Gabby & Rafael, who she both finds professional and easy to work with.

GMA Network celebrates love in 2015 Christmas campaign

GMA Network welcomes the most-awaited season with the premiere of the “MaGMAhalan Tayo Ngayong Pasko” Christmas campaign on its primetime newscast 24 Oras last November 12.

The message of love takes center stage in the Kapuso community as well-loved Kapuso artists and trusted News and Public Affairs personalities come together with viewers in a happy, heartfelt celebration of the season.

Renowned director Cesar Cosme, who helmed the project, says that the message imparted by the video is about “genuine and pure love,” much like that of a child.

Christmas is truly the season for loving one another and the Network’s message is to spread the love this Holiday Season.

One with the Network’s message of love are GMA’s best and brightest stars including Dingdong Dantes, Marian Rivera, AiAi de las Alas, Lovi Poe, Heart Evangelista, Michael V, Willie Revillame, Dennis Trillo, Tom Rodriguez, Megan Young, Carla Abellana, Barbie Forteza, Bianca Umali, Miguel Tanfelix, Andre Paras, Ruru Madrid, Gabbi Garcia, and German Moreno.

They are joined by Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon leading Dabarkads, with the phenomenal love team of Alden Richards and Maine Mendoza, together with Lola Nidora, Lola Tidora and Lola Tinidora.

Also featured are GMA’s formidable News and Public Affairs team with news pillars Mel Tiangco, Mike Enriquez, Jessica Soho, Vicky Morales, Arnold Clavio and Howie Severino.

With heartwarming scenes full of traditions and the sharing of the gifts of love and laughter among those we care about the most, the 2015 GMA Christmas station ID shows a holiday that is truly Pinoy, and truly Kapuso.

And as the countdown to Christmas continues, the station with a heart hopes that Kapuso viewers worldwide hear the message – “MaGMAhalan Tayo Ngayong Pasko.”

This year, the Christmas station ID theme song was sung by Pambansang Bae Alden Richards; with lyrics written by Brian James Camaya and Clare Yee, and music composed by Simon Tan. (30)

GMA Network spreads love in 2015 Christmas campaign

The Kapuso Network spreads love among viewers all over the world as Kapuso artists and trusted News and Public Affairs personalities come together for a happy and meaningful celebration of the season.

In a star-studded Christmas Station ID, GMA Network welcomed the most-awaited season with the “MaGMAhalan Tayo Ngayong Pasko” Christmas SID, which airs worldwide on GMA’s flagship international channel GMA Pinoy TV.

Director Cesar Cosme, who helmed the project, says the video highlights “genuine and pure love” like that of a child.

They are joined by Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon leading the Eat Bulaga Dabarkads, with the phenomenal love team of Alden Richards and Maine Mendoza, together with Lola Nidora, Lola Tidora and Lola Tinidora.

Also featured are GMA’s formidable News and Public Affairs team with news pillars Mel Tiangco, Mike Enriquez, Jessica Soho, Vicky Morales, Arnold Clavio and Howie Severino.

With heart-warming scenes full of traditions and the sharing of love and laughter with those we care about the most, the 2015 GMA Christmas station ID shows a holiday that is truly Pinoy, and truly Kapuso.

With Christmas being just around the corner, the station with a heart hopes that Kapuso viewers worldwide hear the message – “MaGMAhalan Tayo Ngayong Pasko.”

This year, the Christmas station ID theme song was sung by Pambansang Bae Alden Richards; with lyrics written by Brian James Camaya and Clare Yee, and music composed by Simon Tan.

Days after it was released on iTunes, GMA’s Christmas station ID theme song titled “MaGMAhalan Tayo Ngayong Pasko” already became number one among iTunes PH top singles. It also became #27 on iTunes Singapore and #58 on iTunes Macau.

The single, released under GMA Records, is available for download and streaming worldwide with all proceeds going to GMA Kapuso Foundation’s Typhoon Lando relief efforts.

Netizens took notice of the theme song for its upbeat and catchy tune, as well as its positive and uplifting message. Twitter user Amy Zulueta shared, “Great job! Short but meaningful! Listen to the lyrics and understand its message.”

Kapuso netizens all over the world also expressed gratitude to GMA for the chance to help marginalized Filipinos. “Thank you for giving us the opportunity to help others thru this!” says Instagram user janeybuena.

Alden’s rendition of the Christmas station ID theme song also earned praises from netizens. Facebook user Juliet Regulto says, “Ang ganda ng pagkakanta. May puso talaga, nakakaiyak. God bless Alden. More blessings to come. Stay humble.”

Moreover, the 2015 GMA Christmas station ID continues to touch hearts worldwide as it reminds viewers of the true meaning of the Christmas season – to love one another.

The 2015 GMA Christmas station ID “MaGMAhalan Tayo Ngayong Pasko” was created by the GMA Program Support Department, directed by Cesar Cosme and shot by the Network’s Post Production Department.

Headed by GMA Program Support Department First Vice President Regie Bautista, the team includes Assistant Vice President for Marketing Communications Hasmin Marable, Senior Project Manager Minette T. Lopez, Project Specialist Penny Wong, Creative Director Dino Garcia, Associate Creative Director Brian James Camaya, Senior Visualizer Gayel Empederado, Senior Art Support Specialist Raymond Ignacio, and Senior Visualizer Pauline Lapus.

The Digital Media team is composed of Online Content Director Leda Beltran, Social Media Head Apang Florescio, Aedrianne Acar, Elisa Aquino, Michelle Caligan, Ma. Esperanza Estrada, Felix Ilaya, Mary Louise Ligunas, Christine Joy Mendoza, Karl Panal, Bea Rodriguez, Marah Ruiz, and Armina Criselda Soriano.

To download a copy of the single, “MaGMAhalan Tayo Ngayong Pasko,” visit www.iTunes.com. (30)

Sinulog Short Film Festival

Sinulog Foundation, Inc.

in cooperation with:

Cebu City Government

***********************************&***********************************

Cebu Filmmakers’ Society

****************************Presents****************************

The

Sinulog 2016

Short Film Festival

Theme (51^st International Eucharistic Congress 2016):

“Christ in you, our hope for glory.”

Whether documenting a particular experience or sharing your story about a particular aspect of Life, or presenting one particular facet of the Annual Sinulog Celebration by presenting a story of the power of the Holy Child Jesus and the Almighty God, thru film or video, you can tell us your point of view!

Glory to God, the Highest! And Praises to the Seňor Sto. Niňo!

******************

You, too, can be a good channel in changing this nation and the world!

Reach out and touch other people’s lives! Just do it now!

Join us as we once again shout out loud Sinulog's:

********

ONE BEAT, ONE DANCE, ONE VISION!

LET’S KEEP CEBU’S PASSION IN FILMMAKING BURNING WHILE CONTRIBUTING TO THE SUCCESS OF SINULOG 2016! BE THERE! BE ONE!

********

Best Sinulog Short Film and Best Sinulog Video Documentary

Two (2) Grand Prize Winners: Php 100,000.00 (One for Video Documentary & One for Short Film) * Two (2) Second Prize Winners: Php 50,000.00 (One for Video Documentary & One for Short Film) * Two (2) Third Prize Winners:Php 30,000.00 (One for Video Documentary & One for Short Film) * Two (2) Best Poster Grand Winner: Php 1,000.00 (One for Video Docu & One for Short Film) * Two (2) Best Playbill Grand Winner: Php 1,000.00 (One for Video Docu & One for Short Film) * Two (2) Best Packaging Grand Winner: Php 1,000.00 (One for Video Docu & One for Short Film) * Ten (10) Consolation Prizes: @ Php 1,000.00 each (5 for each Category)

***************************

Added Category:

Sinulog Music Video Competition

Grand Prize - Php 30,000.00 / 2^nd Prize - Php 20,000.00 / 3^rd Prize – Php 10,000.00

Registration Fee for Music Video Competition (only) is Php 1,000.00

Certificates of Recognition for Special Awards

*Best Story**Best Director**Best Child Performer*, *Best Actor, Best Actress*, *Best Supporting Actor / Actress*

*Best Cinematography*, *Best Production Design**Best Sound Engineering & Musical Scoring**Best Editing*, *Best Screenplay*

Entries should be in DVD format and subtitling is now a must!

Deadline of Registration: January 15, 2016, Friday, 5:00 PM

For guidelines and more information, contact:

Mr. Ron Heri Tan, Chairman, Sinulog 2016 Short Film Festival Committee